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The Outsider Chronicles #2
Damaged Goods
When Liv Bennett said good-bye to her sinkhole of a hometown, she planned to leave that chapter of her life behind forever. But forever turned out to only be three years.
After her addict of a mother up and disappears, Liv returns to what she considers her own personal hell smack in the middle of nowhere Nevada to take care of her two younger sisters, and she promptly reinstitutes the golden rule that got her through her first nineteen years of life without getting knocked up, roughed up, or messed up: don’t date the local boys and, god forbid, don’t fall in love with one of them.
It isn’t long before that golden rule is put to the test.
Will Goods grew up in the next trailer over, but the wild, careless boy who used to tear up the town with his three brothers has morphed into someone else so completely, he’s almost unrecognizable. The quiet, contemplative man who works on cars every night and takes care of his mentally ill mother every day is nothing like the local boys Liv grew up avoiding.
But when Liv considers suspending her golden rule just this once, she finds out something about Will that will change everything.
Will Goods isn’t who he used to be—he’s not even the man Liv thinks she’s gotten to know over the summer. He’s become someone else entirely.
He’s become . . .
Damaged Goods.
After her addict of a mother up and disappears, Liv returns to what she considers her own personal hell smack in the middle of nowhere Nevada to take care of her two younger sisters, and she promptly reinstitutes the golden rule that got her through her first nineteen years of life without getting knocked up, roughed up, or messed up: don’t date the local boys and, god forbid, don’t fall in love with one of them.
It isn’t long before that golden rule is put to the test.
Will Goods grew up in the next trailer over, but the wild, careless boy who used to tear up the town with his three brothers has morphed into someone else so completely, he’s almost unrecognizable. The quiet, contemplative man who works on cars every night and takes care of his mentally ill mother every day is nothing like the local boys Liv grew up avoiding.
But when Liv considers suspending her golden rule just this once, she finds out something about Will that will change everything.
Will Goods isn’t who he used to be—he’s not even the man Liv thinks she’s gotten to know over the summer. He’s become someone else entirely.
He’s become . . .
Damaged Goods.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2014
40 people are currently reading
2186 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Williams
52 books9,581 followersNicole is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY bestselling author who got her humble start dictating books to her parents at the age of three and her big break nearly three decades later when she signed her first publishing deal. She grew up an avid reader and writer who majored in Economics because a Creative Writing degree was lofty and impractical, not to mention a pipe dream. Irony, you wily fiend.
When she isn’t embroiled in a book, she spends her time playing wife and mom to her two favorite people in the world, and referee to their three rescue pets/wildlings. Nicole lives in the Evergreen State on the quieter side, ideal for an admitted recluse who enjoys the diversity of outdoor endeavors the Great Northwest offers.
Nicole loves hearing from her readers. You can connect with her on:
Facebook: Author Nicole Williams
Instagram: author_nicole_williams
Twitter: nwilliamsbooks
When she isn’t embroiled in a book, she spends her time playing wife and mom to her two favorite people in the world, and referee to their three rescue pets/wildlings. Nicole lives in the Evergreen State on the quieter side, ideal for an admitted recluse who enjoys the diversity of outdoor endeavors the Great Northwest offers.
Nicole loves hearing from her readers. You can connect with her on:
Facebook: Author Nicole Williams
Instagram: author_nicole_williams
Twitter: nwilliamsbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
September 9, 2014
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4-4.5 Stars
Damaged Goods is the second book in The Outsider Chronicles, but is a stand alone - the characters do not overlap.
Liv Bennett’s primary focus in life has been to get away from the black hole of a town she was raised in and make something of herself. At the age of 22 she decides enough is enough and quits her job as a waitress and moves to California to attend college. Everything is on track for Liv and she is just finishing up her Junior year when she is called home by her younger sister, because her drug addict mother is missing. Liv drops everything to return to Death Valley, and take care of her family. Liv finds that everything in the small town is the same, with the exception of one thing…Will Goods.
Will Goods enlisted in the military when he turned 18, anything to get him away from the trouble this small town could bring. Years later he is forced to move back home to care for his mentally ill mother. Things continuing like normal until the girl next door shows up to say hi. Will and Liv develop a friendship. He isn’t what she expected, he is different, but she knows she can’t break her number one rule of no boys from Death Valley.
Liv is barely getting by and struggling to take care of her siblings when she is offered a job at a strip club. This is the last place Liv thought she would be or wants to be, but after weeks of searching for a job, with no money left, and her sister caught shoplifting she is out of options.
This story has a little bit of everything in it: family, love, friendship, and sexiness. I loved the relationship and dynamic between the sisters. I loved Will’s story and his relationship with Liv. I wasn’t expecting the twists and turns with Will, but I was pleasantly surprised with the plot. I loved how Will and Liv were friends first, and their relationship grew into more. Lastly, I loved the sexy scenes with Will.
I really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
4-4.5 Stars
Damaged Goods is the second book in The Outsider Chronicles, but is a stand alone - the characters do not overlap.
Liv Bennett’s primary focus in life has been to get away from the black hole of a town she was raised in and make something of herself. At the age of 22 she decides enough is enough and quits her job as a waitress and moves to California to attend college. Everything is on track for Liv and she is just finishing up her Junior year when she is called home by her younger sister, because her drug addict mother is missing. Liv drops everything to return to Death Valley, and take care of her family. Liv finds that everything in the small town is the same, with the exception of one thing…Will Goods.
Will Goods enlisted in the military when he turned 18, anything to get him away from the trouble this small town could bring. Years later he is forced to move back home to care for his mentally ill mother. Things continuing like normal until the girl next door shows up to say hi. Will and Liv develop a friendship. He isn’t what she expected, he is different, but she knows she can’t break her number one rule of no boys from Death Valley.
Liv is barely getting by and struggling to take care of her siblings when she is offered a job at a strip club. This is the last place Liv thought she would be or wants to be, but after weeks of searching for a job, with no money left, and her sister caught shoplifting she is out of options.
This story has a little bit of everything in it: family, love, friendship, and sexiness. I loved the relationship and dynamic between the sisters. I loved Will’s story and his relationship with Liv. I wasn’t expecting the twists and turns with Will, but I was pleasantly surprised with the plot. I loved how Will and Liv were friends first, and their relationship grew into more. Lastly, I loved the sexy scenes with Will.
I really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 2, 2017
3.5 stars
Enjoyable with a great twist. Sometimes I didn't connect with the writing but I loved the story line.
Enjoyable with a great twist. Sometimes I didn't connect with the writing but I loved the story line.
September 15, 2014
4 GoodWill Stars
This book honestly was NOT what I was expecting AT. ALL. I really enjoyed the twist that was the driving force of this story line and my heart went out to the cast of this book. They all had some hard knocks from the school of life they had to work through. Liv definitely had to take one for the team. She did what she had to, to survive, and that's what ended up surprising me the most. At times I did feel there was a bit too much in the inner dialogue department from Liv, but over all- I really did enjoy this story. These characters definitely had a lot to learn about themselves and how to strive to be better and achieve their goals to make that possible in the long run.
Will Goods, or as my mind kept thinking: GoodWill, was quite the man. He was good down to the core and didn't seem to have a deceiving bone in his body. He's an honest guy, a hero, a loving and devoted son, a great mechanic, a helpful neighbor and once you let him into your heart, a loving, caring and understanding man. He sees the world differently.
Liv Bennett is a whole other ball of wax. She has a jaded view of the world. She came from a "white trash" place, had a stigma placed on her in high school and she's very pessimistic. She has two sisters to help support, her own college career to get through and holds down a late night full-time job. Her mother did her no favors, her town did her no favors, and life surely wasn't being kind in the fate department until Will that is... but can she look past her own self to make this the best fate has handed her? She sees the world in a Negative Nancy way and she needs to be shown the light.
What I liked about this book:
1. Liv's sisters: Paige & Reese. They have vastly different views on life and I loved the dynamics of the three together.
2. Jake. This "interesting" character grew on me. I loved his banter with Liv and how he always told her she was a pain in his ass. He ended up having some great sound advice and it let me see him a tad differently.
3. WILL GOODS of course! I loved this man.
4. The Twist. You could figure it out early...yet even though I did, it still had me wavering back-in-forth on if I was correct or not.
5. Some humor.
6. Liv & Will never cheat on each other. (I know I have this labeled under cheating...but it's not the main couple who does it. Just to clarify.)
This book honestly was NOT what I was expecting AT. ALL. I really enjoyed the twist that was the driving force of this story line and my heart went out to the cast of this book. They all had some hard knocks from the school of life they had to work through. Liv definitely had to take one for the team. She did what she had to, to survive, and that's what ended up surprising me the most. At times I did feel there was a bit too much in the inner dialogue department from Liv, but over all- I really did enjoy this story. These characters definitely had a lot to learn about themselves and how to strive to be better and achieve their goals to make that possible in the long run.
Will Goods, or as my mind kept thinking: GoodWill, was quite the man. He was good down to the core and didn't seem to have a deceiving bone in his body. He's an honest guy, a hero, a loving and devoted son, a great mechanic, a helpful neighbor and once you let him into your heart, a loving, caring and understanding man. He sees the world differently.
Liv Bennett is a whole other ball of wax. She has a jaded view of the world. She came from a "white trash" place, had a stigma placed on her in high school and she's very pessimistic. She has two sisters to help support, her own college career to get through and holds down a late night full-time job. Her mother did her no favors, her town did her no favors, and life surely wasn't being kind in the fate department until Will that is... but can she look past her own self to make this the best fate has handed her? She sees the world in a Negative Nancy way and she needs to be shown the light.
What I liked about this book:
1. Liv's sisters: Paige & Reese. They have vastly different views on life and I loved the dynamics of the three together.
2. Jake. This "interesting" character grew on me. I loved his banter with Liv and how he always told her she was a pain in his ass. He ended up having some great sound advice and it let me see him a tad differently.
3. WILL GOODS of course! I loved this man.
4. The Twist. You could figure it out early...yet even though I did, it still had me wavering back-in-forth on if I was correct or not.
5. Some humor.
6. Liv & Will never cheat on each other. (I know I have this labeled under cheating...but it's not the main couple who does it. Just to clarify.)
March 3, 2016
Interesting read
This book wasn't what I expected but now that I've read it I couldn't tell you exactly what it was I expected.
Liv Bennett couldn't get away from her small hometown fast enough and she's working hard to try and make something of herself. She left behind her 'mother' if you can call her that and her two younger sisters Reese and Paige but her sister's are never far from her thoughts and she sends money back for them whenever she can.
Liv is having a bad night and it's about to get worse as she finds herself returning to the town she tried so hard to escape from.
For Liv, like most of the characters in this book life has been hard and it seems as if she's been dealt one bad hand after another but she does what she has to do to survive.
Liv is strong at times but she's also cynical, rude, hard headed and more than a little clueless at others.
I don't want to say much more except there's a twist and some interesting characters, Will is amazing I just loved him and Jack really grew on me in fact I think after Will he became my favourite character.
This was a surprising book in many ways.
August 5, 2015
Liv Bennet is the stupidest, most self-absorbed, ignorant, unfeeling character of all time. I want to slap her over the head to try to get only one reasonable thought out of her. And Will Goods is a saint and the most understanding and forgiving person. Sorry for the rant but I just had to. That is all.
February 1, 2015
This book didn't work for me on multiple levels. Sad, because I loved "Hard Knox," and, if I would've read this one first, it's highly likely I wouldn't have ever given anything else this author wrote another chance! Yep, this was that bad and Knox was that good. I couldn't find a single thing that I liked about this book.
Characters:
And the award for most annoying female MC in history goes to.... Liv!
Anyhoo, I'm instantly turned off by the female MC - from her disassociated, convoluted way of dealing with the shit life hands her to the constant barrage of inner diatribes she has just so she can throw herself a pity party every five seconds.
Did life really, really stink for Liv? Yeah! No doubt, she was handed shitty cards in life. Is it okay to complain about it, have a breakdown about it, cry, put up protective walls, etc? Of course! I'm not heartless to her plight.
However, this chick is like a broken down radio stuck on repeat with poor, pitiful me blasting through the speakers nonstop! For someone hell bent on NEVER just laying down accepting the life she was born into, she spent most of her time rolling over and playing dead to it & painting herself into imaginary corners where she CHOSE to believe she didn't have any choices.
She's been sending money to her sisters for years and ultimately has to step in to financially save them when the mom goes MIA. On the surface, it appears to be a girl that loves her sisters and wants to help them. But, I just didn't buy it, feel it! She internally plays the martyr. There's not a single moment where she emotionally connects, reassures, or props these girls up from what they've endured. Obligation, guilt are not the same emotions as love!
The romance:
He's a too sweet for his own good dude that's 'clumsy' as hell & falls in love somehow with a girl that's as aloof, shut off, ungrateful, and bitchy as they come. Wasn't feeling anything swoony or sexy about Will, and that has nothing to do with the unbelievable plot twist.
On her part, the f'ing repetitive mantra of: Will is good looking... He's off limits, not good enough... I want to ride his stick, though... No, he's not good enough... Well, he's good enough as long as it's in a pitch black room... He's saving my ass every five minutes & I'll accept that, but nothing more...Foreign feelings are working their way into my head, but I'm going to shove em back to oblivion and pretend I'm not human... Oh, wait, he beat the hell out of a guy that came to a strip club expecting a girl to actually do her job and dance... Damn, I love him. < Ehhhhhhhh!!!! This was the most exhausting, pointless, illogical, angst for the sake of angst romantic plot line I may have ever read.
And, just when you think it can't get worse, it does! The way she reacts to Will's predicament {aka the plot twist} is reprehensible. He never lied to her; he can't help she's an f'ing blind moron! And, for her to think that he didn't know there was only one side of the coin she was flipping after all the convos about 'not talking about the other side of the coin' was just as moronic and absurdly unbelievable. She's a dipshit! Even after he tells her, she's in her usual self- important state that she still doesn't comprehend the truth and thinks he's the one that hurt her! After the second time of him telling her the truth, synapses in the brain finally fire enough for her to get it, but she's again the most selfish human ever by asking him to just abandon everything to follow after her. She Is The Most Asinine Character Ever!
The reconcile is ridiculous. A shop... A random encounter... Professed love. Please!?!? Not like the plot twist here would mean that just picking up and moving, opening a business, etc miles and miles away in the span of a month wouldn't be just a tiny weeny bit difficult for him, huh?
Gems:
Maybe I'm in the dark here because I've never been a stripper, but I've NEVER, NEVER, NEVER heard of anyone using tweezers to pull all their pubic hair!!!!! Wtf? Have these bitc$es never heard of wax or razors?
The 'Ill sell my own mama's soul to the devil for a dollar' strip club owner of all people is the only one that has anything intelligent to say, and is the one, ironic enough, to voice to Liv my thoughts the entire book: "Because if you had tried hard enough, Noelle, you would have figured out some shit, and since you"re whining about how you haven't figured out any shit, not even the basic kind, that means you haven't tried hard enough."
How this book could be written by the same author as Hard Knox is beyond my feeble little brains' comprehension, truly!
Characters:
And the award for most annoying female MC in history goes to.... Liv!
Anyhoo, I'm instantly turned off by the female MC - from her disassociated, convoluted way of dealing with the shit life hands her to the constant barrage of inner diatribes she has just so she can throw herself a pity party every five seconds.
Did life really, really stink for Liv? Yeah! No doubt, she was handed shitty cards in life. Is it okay to complain about it, have a breakdown about it, cry, put up protective walls, etc? Of course! I'm not heartless to her plight.
However, this chick is like a broken down radio stuck on repeat with poor, pitiful me blasting through the speakers nonstop! For someone hell bent on NEVER just laying down accepting the life she was born into, she spent most of her time rolling over and playing dead to it & painting herself into imaginary corners where she CHOSE to believe she didn't have any choices.
She's been sending money to her sisters for years and ultimately has to step in to financially save them when the mom goes MIA. On the surface, it appears to be a girl that loves her sisters and wants to help them. But, I just didn't buy it, feel it! She internally plays the martyr. There's not a single moment where she emotionally connects, reassures, or props these girls up from what they've endured. Obligation, guilt are not the same emotions as love!
The romance:
He's a too sweet for his own good dude that's 'clumsy' as hell & falls in love somehow with a girl that's as aloof, shut off, ungrateful, and bitchy as they come. Wasn't feeling anything swoony or sexy about Will, and that has nothing to do with the unbelievable plot twist.
On her part, the f'ing repetitive mantra of: Will is good looking... He's off limits, not good enough... I want to ride his stick, though... No, he's not good enough... Well, he's good enough as long as it's in a pitch black room... He's saving my ass every five minutes & I'll accept that, but nothing more...Foreign feelings are working their way into my head, but I'm going to shove em back to oblivion and pretend I'm not human... Oh, wait, he beat the hell out of a guy that came to a strip club expecting a girl to actually do her job and dance... Damn, I love him. < Ehhhhhhhh!!!! This was the most exhausting, pointless, illogical, angst for the sake of angst romantic plot line I may have ever read.
And, just when you think it can't get worse, it does! The way she reacts to Will's predicament {aka the plot twist} is reprehensible. He never lied to her; he can't help she's an f'ing blind moron! And, for her to think that he didn't know there was only one side of the coin she was flipping after all the convos about 'not talking about the other side of the coin' was just as moronic and absurdly unbelievable. She's a dipshit! Even after he tells her, she's in her usual self- important state that she still doesn't comprehend the truth and thinks he's the one that hurt her! After the second time of him telling her the truth, synapses in the brain finally fire enough for her to get it, but she's again the most selfish human ever by asking him to just abandon everything to follow after her. She Is The Most Asinine Character Ever!
The reconcile is ridiculous. A shop... A random encounter... Professed love. Please!?!? Not like the plot twist here would mean that just picking up and moving, opening a business, etc miles and miles away in the span of a month wouldn't be just a tiny weeny bit difficult for him, huh?
Gems:
Maybe I'm in the dark here because I've never been a stripper, but I've NEVER, NEVER, NEVER heard of anyone using tweezers to pull all their pubic hair!!!!! Wtf? Have these bitc$es never heard of wax or razors?
The 'Ill sell my own mama's soul to the devil for a dollar' strip club owner of all people is the only one that has anything intelligent to say, and is the one, ironic enough, to voice to Liv my thoughts the entire book: "Because if you had tried hard enough, Noelle, you would have figured out some shit, and since you"re whining about how you haven't figured out any shit, not even the basic kind, that means you haven't tried hard enough."
How this book could be written by the same author as Hard Knox is beyond my feeble little brains' comprehension, truly!
February 2, 2015
Early warning: This book is in no way related to Hard Knox. Didn't impact the rating at all, just a forewarning to those who were hoping for a Knox/Charlie sequel (or at least a smidge of a cross over). The books are completely unrelated and I'm honestly not sure whey they're not just advertised as two stand alone books.
Alright, quick plot review:
The characters were engaging and fun to read about. The overall plot compelling. The plot twists were foreshadowed so heavily that, to me, there were no real surprises here. Enjoyable, but nothing special.
Sticking points, for me:
Alright, quick plot review:
The characters were engaging and fun to read about. The overall plot compelling. The plot twists were foreshadowed so heavily that, to me, there were no real surprises here. Enjoyable, but nothing special.
Sticking points, for me:
September 22, 2014
3.75 Stars
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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While I really enjoyed Hard Knox, the first book in The Outsider Chronicles, it was a little harder for me to get into Damaged Goods. The main character, Liv Bennet, came off as a bit of a man hater. I know she didn’t hate all guys, she did have a steady boyfriend for two years, she just really disliked men. Actually it was more like men and women from her hometown in Nevada.
For about half the book I found Liv to be a hard character to like. Even though she dropped everything in her life to take care of her underage sisters when their meth-head mom left I still hard a hard time feeling connecting with her. I did however really enjoy the two male characters in the book, Will and Jake. Jake was not what I would think of when I imagine a strip club owner. He was smart and, well not a dick. He wasn’t sleazy or a total creep. His verbal sparing with Liz was one of the highlights of the novel. But the real saving grace was Will.
Will was such a great character. He was patient and unbelievably kind, but he had a secret surrounding him that added to his appeal. There are multiple scenes where Will and Liv get very physical with each other all without saying a word. It sounds weird and is hard to explain without giving too much away, but these scenes only add a mysterious, bad boy element to an already very attractive man.
Most of Nicole Edwards books are very YA when it comes to the main characters physical relationship. Yes, her books sometimes have sex but it’s very simple. Even in the last book, Hard Knox, the sex was a little creative in its location but still pretty basic. I really liked that in Damaged Goods she kicked it up a notch. Now it’s by no means erotica, but it doesn’t have to be that sexually aggressive to still be hot. I thought it worked perfectly in this book and I’m glad she decided to bring the heat.
I’m torn as to how to rate this book. The first half was a pretty obvious three. Liz was really annoying and I couldn’t bring myself to like her. But the second half she changed, not into one of my favorite characters, but at least into one I could stand. Will was fantastic the entire book. I’d have to say the beginning was a three and the last half a four. I’d definitely give it a chance if you’re a fan of Nicole Williams’ other books. I just wouldn’t base my opinion of her entire body of work on this one novel.
Review posted at Love Between the Sheets
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September 24, 2014
Definitely not Knox
this one didn't do any thing for me. really would have been better if we read about this chick getting a lobotomy and then a TEAM of psychiatrist. she had ISSUES. love the H.....Will....he was totally swoon worthy. I even liked Jake. Looney liv, uh, not at all. I was so looking forward to this because I loved Knox. now I wanna cry cause I didn't get the caliber of Knox in this book.
this one didn't do any thing for me. really would have been better if we read about this chick getting a lobotomy and then a TEAM of psychiatrist. she had ISSUES. love the H.....Will....he was totally swoon worthy. I even liked Jake. Looney liv, uh, not at all. I was so looking forward to this because I loved Knox. now I wanna cry cause I didn't get the caliber of Knox in this book.
January 30, 2015
**** I received an copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
Damaged Goods is the second book in The Outsider Chronicles series by Nicole Williams, having loved book one in the series Hard Knox I was looking forward to reading this one, and I have to say this one was just as good as the first if not slightly better for me.
“Love who you want to love. Love who you need to love. And Love those you do without abandon or fear”
Liv Bennett does not to follow the same path as her worthless mother; she is trying hard to create a different life for herself, and when her sisters need her, she doesn’t hesitate to make some sacrifice of her own, in order to put them first. I just loved her fighting spirit, her independent, and sassy side. I felt for her at times. Love the relationship and dynamics between Liv and her sister’s Paige & Reese
“I didn’t need greatness. I just needed a different life from the one I’d grown up knowing”
Will Goods oh wow!! I fell hard for Will Goods, and just like his last name Will Goods is good!!! In so many different ways, ;) I loved his aspect of the story. There was just something about him; he was one of the good guys, and he was a bit of an enigma. He was good looking, kind, sweet, and perceptive.
“Don’t live life like an apology. Live it like it’s full of no regrets…it’s a lots more fun…and a lot less guilt”
Liv and Will have great chemistry together, and l loved watching their friendship develops, and grow into more. Will make Liv feel things that she has not felt in a long time, she has always been in control of how she react to things, until she met Will. Liv tries hard time resisting him, fights her feelings and tries not to let him get close falling for the local boy was not in her plans.
“It wasn’t love- yet- and it wasn’t hate. Yet. The myriad of other feelings, I couldn’t rule out”
“Will Goods had worked his way into the very essence of who I was. He’d become a permanent fixture, one that couldn’t be broken forgotten or removed”
As I have said before what the heart wants the heart wants. I did want to shake her a few times, but I feel for both of them, as it wasn’t easy as they tried to make sense of what was happening between them. I was rooting for them to find a way to work through it.
“Stop pushing people away. Me specifically. Especially after tonight and knowing what you and me combined are capable of”
I enjoyed it book, and so didn’t want to put it down, I even contemplated canceling my afternoon plans so that I could finish the book. As Nicole had created two charters that I instantly connect to their emotions were my emotions and therefore I became wrapped up in their story. I loved that I didn’t get the twist/ secret until just before it was meant to be revealed, and it was an OMG!!! No way moment, how did I not see that!!! It made for a great turn of events that left me wanting more and tying to read faster. There is also an epilogue Woohoo!!!
Damaged Goods is a well-written sexy, and heartwarming story about family, hope, embracing love, taking chances, and learning to live in the moment. It had some great secondary characters like Jack who was different to what I was expecting him to be. He and Liv had great banter together. I love this series so far, and although I can’t find any info if there is going to be another book in the series, I hope that Nicole is busy writing the next one now.
Fans of Nicole’s will love this one, and I highly recommend that you add Damaged Goods to your TBR list. One last thing, and something that I never say, but this book really is a standalone you can read this one first as won’t get any spoilers about Hard Knox.
Damaged Goods is the second book in The Outsider Chronicles series by Nicole Williams, having loved book one in the series Hard Knox I was looking forward to reading this one, and I have to say this one was just as good as the first if not slightly better for me.
“Love who you want to love. Love who you need to love. And Love those you do without abandon or fear”
Liv Bennett does not to follow the same path as her worthless mother; she is trying hard to create a different life for herself, and when her sisters need her, she doesn’t hesitate to make some sacrifice of her own, in order to put them first. I just loved her fighting spirit, her independent, and sassy side. I felt for her at times. Love the relationship and dynamics between Liv and her sister’s Paige & Reese
“I didn’t need greatness. I just needed a different life from the one I’d grown up knowing”
Will Goods oh wow!! I fell hard for Will Goods, and just like his last name Will Goods is good!!! In so many different ways, ;) I loved his aspect of the story. There was just something about him; he was one of the good guys, and he was a bit of an enigma. He was good looking, kind, sweet, and perceptive.
“Don’t live life like an apology. Live it like it’s full of no regrets…it’s a lots more fun…and a lot less guilt”
Liv and Will have great chemistry together, and l loved watching their friendship develops, and grow into more. Will make Liv feel things that she has not felt in a long time, she has always been in control of how she react to things, until she met Will. Liv tries hard time resisting him, fights her feelings and tries not to let him get close falling for the local boy was not in her plans.
“It wasn’t love- yet- and it wasn’t hate. Yet. The myriad of other feelings, I couldn’t rule out”
“Will Goods had worked his way into the very essence of who I was. He’d become a permanent fixture, one that couldn’t be broken forgotten or removed”
As I have said before what the heart wants the heart wants. I did want to shake her a few times, but I feel for both of them, as it wasn’t easy as they tried to make sense of what was happening between them. I was rooting for them to find a way to work through it.
“Stop pushing people away. Me specifically. Especially after tonight and knowing what you and me combined are capable of”
I enjoyed it book, and so didn’t want to put it down, I even contemplated canceling my afternoon plans so that I could finish the book. As Nicole had created two charters that I instantly connect to their emotions were my emotions and therefore I became wrapped up in their story. I loved that I didn’t get the twist/ secret until just before it was meant to be revealed, and it was an OMG!!! No way moment, how did I not see that!!! It made for a great turn of events that left me wanting more and tying to read faster. There is also an epilogue Woohoo!!!
Damaged Goods is a well-written sexy, and heartwarming story about family, hope, embracing love, taking chances, and learning to live in the moment. It had some great secondary characters like Jack who was different to what I was expecting him to be. He and Liv had great banter together. I love this series so far, and although I can’t find any info if there is going to be another book in the series, I hope that Nicole is busy writing the next one now.
Fans of Nicole’s will love this one, and I highly recommend that you add Damaged Goods to your TBR list. One last thing, and something that I never say, but this book really is a standalone you can read this one first as won’t get any spoilers about Hard Knox.
September 22, 2014
I've been going through a harsh book slump in the past few weeks. I, who normally reads a book within 2 days, was taking a week to finish a book. You can imagine how that was making me feel. Until, I picked up Damaged Goods. I could not stop reading this book and I'm really grateful to the book for getting me out of my slump.
Nicole Williams has the knack for writing beautiful, well-fleshed out characters who you get to know throughout the book as though they were new friends you made in real life. She really strives to develop them and make her characters come across as real. Damaged Goods' characters were no different. Liv was a main character I immediately admired. She dropped out of college so she could take care of her two teenage sisters when their mother disappeared. I don't know about you guys, but I would have so much respect for someone who was willing to do so much for her family members. I love characters who love their siblings more than life and I find myself being able to connect with them really well. Liv was even more admirable because when she had absolutely no choices for work positions in her little hometown, she accepts a job at a gentleman's club so she can put some food in her sisters' stomach. Liv was such a headstrong girl throughout all her difficulties and I loved how she didn't bow down to any of her obstacles. She lifted her head high and found solutions to her problems all by herself. Then there's Will, her sexy neighbor. I loved that guy so much! He managed to make me swoon really hard with how kindhearted and heartwarming he was. It was hard for me not to fall for him. He was also very much a family man in that he took care of his mentally ill mother while working as a mechanic. You've got to love a man who does everything for his family.
The romance in Damaged Goods was phenomenal. I'm in awe of how Nicole Williams always manages to write books with characters that have smoldering chemistry together. Liv and Will together were sweet, but they also managed to set the pages on fire in certain scenes. I thought they were a perfect couple and even though they did have to overcome a few misunderstandings in their relationship, they complemented each other well and I was cheering on them.While romance is a huge part of Damaged Goods, it was also very much family-driven book. Liv and her sisters shared a strong bond that was a delight to read about. I loved how these three girls stuck together through every dark and difficult moment and brought light to those moments. What's even better though was all the love oozing out of the pages. If you want to write a book that I will love, you only have to write a beautiful strong siblings relationship. I only had one tiny complaint when it came to Damaged Goods. Will had a disability that Liv didn't find out until well near the end of the book. I personally thought that was a little bit unrealistic because it's not a disability you can hide. You can tell when a person has that condition, so I thought it was unbelievable that it took Liv so long to find out about it.
For me, Nicole Williams is a favorite author in the NA genre. She crafts some incredible stories that make you feel for her characters. Damaged Goods is a must read for those who enjoy this author and those who enjoy the genre.
October 28, 2014
"Love who you want to love. Love who you need to love. And love those you do without abandon or fear."
I was really excited about reading this book! I completely fell in love with the first book in this series, and even though I knew that this book was going to be about two completely different characters, I still couldn't wait to get my hands on it! I freaking loved this book! I loved everything about it from the characters to the plot! It was really different to the first book too, but I was expecting that as it's about different characters! The plot was amazing! I wasn't actually sure what was going to happen in it after I read the synopsis, but I can say that I really enjoyed the direction it went in and what happened in it! There were some directions it went in that I wasn't expecting, but that made me enjoy it more as I wasn't sure what was going to happen! I also read this book in a few sittings and had a bit of a hard time putting it down once I started to get into it! There was also a twist in the plot that I didn't see coming! It actually had quite an impact on the plot, which is what I was expecting to happen as the main character wasn't expecting it! The twist was different to normal twists though lol! The characters were amazing! Liv was the main character and I just adored her! I also felt really sorry for her because of the circumstances that made her leave college and go back home! Liv was determined to do what she had to do to support her sisters though, which is something I really admired about her! She was also quite sarcastic, but as this book progressed, I realised that her sarcasm was to hide the fact that she was nervous and unsure! Liv was quite a character though and I adored her relationship with her sisters! I could see that she would do anything for them! She came a long way in this book too and she grew a lot as a character! Will was the love interest of Liv and he was seriously hot! He was also seriously sweet too! I loved that he was always making sure that Liv and her sisters were okay and helping them out anyway he could! Will had been through a lot though, and there was a secret in this book that he kept that changed the dynamic of his relationship with Liv when it was revealed! I loved that he didn't want his secret to define him though and that he wanted Liv, and other people, to see him as the guy he was and not because of his secret! That told me a lot about him, and I really admired him for it! I loved the sexual tension between Liv and Will too! It was seriously hot and I loved that there were a few sexy scenes between the two of them! I also enjoyed that their relationship wasn't love at first sight and that it gradually grew as the plot progressed! I'm not sure if there's going to be another book in this series or another book for any of the characters or anything like that, but these books can be read as standalones and their stories end with a happily ever after, so I can understand if this is the last book in the series! I really hope there's more books though! The cover for this book is perfect for it! It's hot and I love how well it suits the cover for the first book too!
I was really excited about reading this book! I completely fell in love with the first book in this series, and even though I knew that this book was going to be about two completely different characters, I still couldn't wait to get my hands on it! I freaking loved this book! I loved everything about it from the characters to the plot! It was really different to the first book too, but I was expecting that as it's about different characters! The plot was amazing! I wasn't actually sure what was going to happen in it after I read the synopsis, but I can say that I really enjoyed the direction it went in and what happened in it! There were some directions it went in that I wasn't expecting, but that made me enjoy it more as I wasn't sure what was going to happen! I also read this book in a few sittings and had a bit of a hard time putting it down once I started to get into it! There was also a twist in the plot that I didn't see coming! It actually had quite an impact on the plot, which is what I was expecting to happen as the main character wasn't expecting it! The twist was different to normal twists though lol! The characters were amazing! Liv was the main character and I just adored her! I also felt really sorry for her because of the circumstances that made her leave college and go back home! Liv was determined to do what she had to do to support her sisters though, which is something I really admired about her! She was also quite sarcastic, but as this book progressed, I realised that her sarcasm was to hide the fact that she was nervous and unsure! Liv was quite a character though and I adored her relationship with her sisters! I could see that she would do anything for them! She came a long way in this book too and she grew a lot as a character! Will was the love interest of Liv and he was seriously hot! He was also seriously sweet too! I loved that he was always making sure that Liv and her sisters were okay and helping them out anyway he could! Will had been through a lot though, and there was a secret in this book that he kept that changed the dynamic of his relationship with Liv when it was revealed! I loved that he didn't want his secret to define him though and that he wanted Liv, and other people, to see him as the guy he was and not because of his secret! That told me a lot about him, and I really admired him for it! I loved the sexual tension between Liv and Will too! It was seriously hot and I loved that there were a few sexy scenes between the two of them! I also enjoyed that their relationship wasn't love at first sight and that it gradually grew as the plot progressed! I'm not sure if there's going to be another book in this series or another book for any of the characters or anything like that, but these books can be read as standalones and their stories end with a happily ever after, so I can understand if this is the last book in the series! I really hope there's more books though! The cover for this book is perfect for it! It's hot and I love how well it suits the cover for the first book too!
September 25, 2014
It's been while since I've read a Williams book and Hard Knox and Damaged Goods reminded me why I became a fan. In Damaged Goods, we have two characters who come from a similar background, or at least from the same kind of home...who both wanted something more, something better. But, as life goes, both are forced to return home to pick up some shattered pieces of their pasts.
What worked for me:
~I admired Liv's drive. She's focused on making her life better and she's worked hard to move forward.
~Liv is dedicated to her family. Despite her own goals, she still takes responsibility for her two younger sisters. She supports them both emotionally and financially. She even leaves her life behind for a while to return home in order to take care of them, since their own mother abandon them.
~I loved...loved...Will. I'm really into good guy character's making me all swoony lately and Will is all that and more. Will has his own story and his own reasons for being home. I loved discovering Will's character. Just when I thought I had him figured out, he surprised me.
~Liv's character was stronger with Will by her side. He is a true support for her and I felt they made each other stronger.
~The steamy scenes really worked for me. Williams can bring on the heat and these two were definitely hot!
What didn't work for me:
~There really wasn't a whole lot that didn't truly work for me. I suppose if I were to get nit picky, I would have liked some loose ends tied up a bit more cleanly. Like, what exactly happened to their mother? Did Liv have to get anything in place legally before she took them out of the state? Perhaps I missed some of those details and it really didn't affect the likability of the story for me, but they are little things that I thought about after.
Overall, I really enjoyed Damaged Goods. It made me feel...well...good. I had a smile on my face when it ended and really, that's the goal, right?
*Damaged Goods can be read as a stand alone. I hear that a lot when books are part of a series, but this one truly can be a stand alone.
Quotes:
~"Segues are for people who aren't trying to chase a real-life Cinderella. Segues are for people who get more than fleeting moments with the person they need to discuss something of importance with."
....
"Oh, well. That's okay. I know when to cut my losses and be happy with an abandon glass slipper. Maybe next time I'll have time to make one of those segues you seem to think I'm incapable of.
~"I'm a man of commitment and resolve. I don't let anything, five or six or seven-or I think I actually counted eight-climaxes included, detour me for too long or far."
What worked for me:
~I admired Liv's drive. She's focused on making her life better and she's worked hard to move forward.
~Liv is dedicated to her family. Despite her own goals, she still takes responsibility for her two younger sisters. She supports them both emotionally and financially. She even leaves her life behind for a while to return home in order to take care of them, since their own mother abandon them.
~I loved...loved...Will. I'm really into good guy character's making me all swoony lately and Will is all that and more. Will has his own story and his own reasons for being home. I loved discovering Will's character. Just when I thought I had him figured out, he surprised me.
~Liv's character was stronger with Will by her side. He is a true support for her and I felt they made each other stronger.
~The steamy scenes really worked for me. Williams can bring on the heat and these two were definitely hot!
What didn't work for me:
~There really wasn't a whole lot that didn't truly work for me. I suppose if I were to get nit picky, I would have liked some loose ends tied up a bit more cleanly. Like, what exactly happened to their mother? Did Liv have to get anything in place legally before she took them out of the state? Perhaps I missed some of those details and it really didn't affect the likability of the story for me, but they are little things that I thought about after.
Overall, I really enjoyed Damaged Goods. It made me feel...well...good. I had a smile on my face when it ended and really, that's the goal, right?
*Damaged Goods can be read as a stand alone. I hear that a lot when books are part of a series, but this one truly can be a stand alone.
Quotes:
~"Segues are for people who aren't trying to chase a real-life Cinderella. Segues are for people who get more than fleeting moments with the person they need to discuss something of importance with."
....
"Oh, well. That's okay. I know when to cut my losses and be happy with an abandon glass slipper. Maybe next time I'll have time to make one of those segues you seem to think I'm incapable of.
~"I'm a man of commitment and resolve. I don't let anything, five or six or seven-or I think I actually counted eight-climaxes included, detour me for too long or far."
October 17, 2014
wow just wow
I have to start by saying that I adore Nicole Williams, her ability to feed my love of word play only makes me worship her more. The clever use of the title within the narrative was used to stunning effect *happy sigh*
Told in first person narrative from Liv’s perspective. At 25 she is hardened by life. She considers herself white trailer trash although she has fought long and hard to escape the confines of the small town and redneck mentality associated with it. She is very much a pessimist but with her upbringing it is completely understandable. However, she has boxed herself into following a set course for her future whether it makes her happy or not. It is soon apparent that Liv hides behind her protective shell but underneath she is responsible and selfless to the core. She always puts her two half siblings before herself. Thinking she had escaped the confines of her home town only to be thrust deeper into its shackles by a cruel twist of fate.
Liv is very judgmental of the people in her hometown and is quick to label them based on their location. Will Goods lives in the trailer next to Liv, recently returned from the army and caring for his ailing mother. It is soon apparent that Will defies all of Liv’s preconceived stereotypes.
Acts of kindness within the narrative help restore faith in human nature (mine as well as Liv’s) although it was a shame that the unexpected nature of the acts of kindness were such a shock to Liv.
Forced into taking a job she is uncomfortable with, Liv battles with her perception of herself. The idea of identity plays a large part within the narrative, showing that the things we do to survive aren’t who we are. It is how we perceive ourselves that ultimately defines who we are. Will plays a large part in helping Liv break through her barriers, opening up to both herself and others. The plot twist was completely unexpected and I have to say worked so well with the situation, forcing Liv to confront her inner demons. There was a point when I wanted to slap her for being so stupid but fortunately she redeemed herself in my eyes :)
I just loved the way in which this story played out – it is utterly brilliant.
I have to mention Nicole’s stunning ability to weave a in a Stripper 101 crash course within the narrative alongside a heaping serving of sarcasm – is it any wonder I love her writing so much ;)
I have to start by saying that I adore Nicole Williams, her ability to feed my love of word play only makes me worship her more. The clever use of the title within the narrative was used to stunning effect *happy sigh*
Told in first person narrative from Liv’s perspective. At 25 she is hardened by life. She considers herself white trailer trash although she has fought long and hard to escape the confines of the small town and redneck mentality associated with it. She is very much a pessimist but with her upbringing it is completely understandable. However, she has boxed herself into following a set course for her future whether it makes her happy or not. It is soon apparent that Liv hides behind her protective shell but underneath she is responsible and selfless to the core. She always puts her two half siblings before herself. Thinking she had escaped the confines of her home town only to be thrust deeper into its shackles by a cruel twist of fate.
Liv is very judgmental of the people in her hometown and is quick to label them based on their location. Will Goods lives in the trailer next to Liv, recently returned from the army and caring for his ailing mother. It is soon apparent that Will defies all of Liv’s preconceived stereotypes.
Acts of kindness within the narrative help restore faith in human nature (mine as well as Liv’s) although it was a shame that the unexpected nature of the acts of kindness were such a shock to Liv.
Forced into taking a job she is uncomfortable with, Liv battles with her perception of herself. The idea of identity plays a large part within the narrative, showing that the things we do to survive aren’t who we are. It is how we perceive ourselves that ultimately defines who we are. Will plays a large part in helping Liv break through her barriers, opening up to both herself and others. The plot twist was completely unexpected and I have to say worked so well with the situation, forcing Liv to confront her inner demons. There was a point when I wanted to slap her for being so stupid but fortunately she redeemed herself in my eyes :)
I just loved the way in which this story played out – it is utterly brilliant.
I have to mention Nicole’s stunning ability to weave a in a Stripper 101 crash course within the narrative alongside a heaping serving of sarcasm – is it any wonder I love her writing so much ;)
September 8, 2014
I LOVED this book! I didn't know what to expect as I was reading and I applaud Nicole for trying something different and with each successive book that she writes, her stories, her writing and characters just get better and better. What I want to give credit for the most is that Nicole is able to create these guys that you simply fall in love with and Damaged Goods was no different.
Liv Bennett fled from her trailer park home and do nothing mom when it was time for college to start a new life and to follow her dreams. She studies hard but also works hard in order to save money to send to her two younger sisters to help them live at home. Her life at best is mediocre as she settles for safe (even in the boyfriend department) because its a complete 360 from the life that she knows but to me, its just boring because she isn't truly living.
When she receives a call from her sister that her mother has been gone for 2 weeks and their younger sister is sick, Liv rushes home to a place she was hoping to never return to, to help care for her sisters.
Not expecting to meet Will Goods, the seemingly good boy next door who takes care of his ill mother and has left the army in order to do so because his other brothers didn't step up to help her out.
Liv continues to protect her heart but along the way develops a relationship with Will as he isn't what she expected him to be.
As Liv struggles to keep her and her sisters afloat, she takes a job at the local high end strip club and this is where things get interesting. You see, she can be someone she isn't while she is there and can let loose and be someone completely different.
As the story progresses and secrets are revealed, I am shocked at what we learn about Will though looking back, it does make sense. I am TOTALLY being vague as I want you to go in and experience this for yourself.
This book is the epitome of living life to the fullest and with no regrets. You make life how you want it instead of letting the past dictate it for you and these characters will learn that and more as you experience their story.
As everyone knows, I am a sucker for a good epilogue and this one brought a huge smile to my face. Take a chance on Damaged Goods - if you are looking for different, emotional and just a good story - then look no further. You won't regret it!
Liv Bennett fled from her trailer park home and do nothing mom when it was time for college to start a new life and to follow her dreams. She studies hard but also works hard in order to save money to send to her two younger sisters to help them live at home. Her life at best is mediocre as she settles for safe (even in the boyfriend department) because its a complete 360 from the life that she knows but to me, its just boring because she isn't truly living.
When she receives a call from her sister that her mother has been gone for 2 weeks and their younger sister is sick, Liv rushes home to a place she was hoping to never return to, to help care for her sisters.
Not expecting to meet Will Goods, the seemingly good boy next door who takes care of his ill mother and has left the army in order to do so because his other brothers didn't step up to help her out.
Liv continues to protect her heart but along the way develops a relationship with Will as he isn't what she expected him to be.
As Liv struggles to keep her and her sisters afloat, she takes a job at the local high end strip club and this is where things get interesting. You see, she can be someone she isn't while she is there and can let loose and be someone completely different.
As the story progresses and secrets are revealed, I am shocked at what we learn about Will though looking back, it does make sense. I am TOTALLY being vague as I want you to go in and experience this for yourself.
This book is the epitome of living life to the fullest and with no regrets. You make life how you want it instead of letting the past dictate it for you and these characters will learn that and more as you experience their story.
As everyone knows, I am a sucker for a good epilogue and this one brought a huge smile to my face. Take a chance on Damaged Goods - if you are looking for different, emotional and just a good story - then look no further. You won't regret it!
December 10, 2019
4.5 stars
My Review:
This is the kind of New Adult reads that I want, that I crave, that I just can’t get enough of. Truly a book that took my heart made it happy dance, cry, break, and flail about. I adored the characters, the world that Williams created, and the story that really pulled at my heartstrings.
Will Goods totally melted my heart. I seriously couldn’t get enough of his character. I loved that he isn’t the typical guy you read about in NA, which I loved. He definitely has that quiet demeanor that makes me instantly fall in love. He is a kind character as well, so I loved watching his story unfold, even if it was a bit heartbreaking.
Liv is a character I admired so much while reading this book. This girl is strong, determined, stubborn, but willing to do anything (and I mean anything) for the people who she loves. Liv’s life definitely hasn’t been easy, but she stepped up and makes the most out of any situation. That’s what I loved and admired about her. I felt she’s the kind of girl I would want to be.
Watching Liv go through what she did, but making the most out of it was inspiring. I enjoyed that type of dynamic character. Will and Liv also have such a strong connection, so watching them evolve, go through everything that they did was very exhilarating. The connection they have was genuine. I loved that they taught each other about themselves and about the their lives. Though Liv’s stubborn personality does get the best of her in the book, watching her overcome that obstacle made me love her even more. I did figure out most of the major plot twist in the book (but of course it was still a shaker) because of personal experience. But that was just one major twist! It had my heart in knots. And again, I loved watching the characters overcome, grow, and find themselves.
The plot flowed nicely, and the pacing was fast and nicely done. The characters’ growth was so well done as well, honest and very realistic. Nicole really, in my opinion, knows how to write a romance that’ll tear at your heart and make you ridiculously happy.
What can I say, I loved this book! It was sexy, filled with characters I admired and adored, the story was filled with heart touching, inspiring moments, and it left me blissfully happy.
My Review:
This is the kind of New Adult reads that I want, that I crave, that I just can’t get enough of. Truly a book that took my heart made it happy dance, cry, break, and flail about. I adored the characters, the world that Williams created, and the story that really pulled at my heartstrings.
Will Goods totally melted my heart. I seriously couldn’t get enough of his character. I loved that he isn’t the typical guy you read about in NA, which I loved. He definitely has that quiet demeanor that makes me instantly fall in love. He is a kind character as well, so I loved watching his story unfold, even if it was a bit heartbreaking.
Liv is a character I admired so much while reading this book. This girl is strong, determined, stubborn, but willing to do anything (and I mean anything) for the people who she loves. Liv’s life definitely hasn’t been easy, but she stepped up and makes the most out of any situation. That’s what I loved and admired about her. I felt she’s the kind of girl I would want to be.
Watching Liv go through what she did, but making the most out of it was inspiring. I enjoyed that type of dynamic character. Will and Liv also have such a strong connection, so watching them evolve, go through everything that they did was very exhilarating. The connection they have was genuine. I loved that they taught each other about themselves and about the their lives. Though Liv’s stubborn personality does get the best of her in the book, watching her overcome that obstacle made me love her even more. I did figure out most of the major plot twist in the book (but of course it was still a shaker) because of personal experience. But that was just one major twist! It had my heart in knots. And again, I loved watching the characters overcome, grow, and find themselves.
The plot flowed nicely, and the pacing was fast and nicely done. The characters’ growth was so well done as well, honest and very realistic. Nicole really, in my opinion, knows how to write a romance that’ll tear at your heart and make you ridiculously happy.
What can I say, I loved this book! It was sexy, filled with characters I admired and adored, the story was filled with heart touching, inspiring moments, and it left me blissfully happy.
December 16, 2014
THIS IS A SPOILER-ISH REVIEW.
"Love who you want to love. Love who you need to love. And love those you do without abandon or fear."
Damaged goods is the second installment in the 'The Outsider Chronicles' series. I read the first book a few months ago and I was blown away by the beautifully written book so I first found out the second book was released, I was like, "why the hell not?" As much as I liked the first book, it can't compare to how much I loved this book. This book isn't what I expected at all. It blew my socks off.
Without giving too much away, Liv Bennett was one of those typical trash kids, although not quite. She worked her ass off to get into college to prove herself. She also had too much on her plate -- not only she had to work hard to support herself, she also had to support her 15 year old and 17 year old sister, Reese and Paige because of their absentee mother. Liv seemed unemotional most of the time but that's only a facade to protect herself. She built these concrete walls around her only to eventually be broken down by Will Goods.
Will Goods. What can I say? He broke my heart. What happened to him -- no one deserved that. He's courageous and strong, and his positive mindset -- I admire that. Although he had some negative ones too. I don't blame him. When I found out what was really going on with him, I was surprised. To say I was suprised would be an understatement, honestly. I can't believe I was as oblivious as Liv! The author hinted at it a few times and I can't believe I missed it because I'm usually very good at picking up hints!
The author's style of writing is so so beautiful, I could give this book a 4.5 stars based on the writings alone. I enjoyed Liv's and Will's banter with each other. And also, Liz's and Jake's!! They kind of reminded me of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters for some reasons? No? Okay.
Overall I really, really enjoyed this book and I would definitely check out another book by this author. :)
5 SOLID STARS.
“You didn’t ruin me, Liv. Remember? I already came damaged.” He extended his arms. “I’m damaged goods.”
September 15, 2014
The dynamics of being a new adult can be complicated at best and down right overwhelming at worst. That time period of life makes some of the best stories and this author knows how to bring them to life.
The characters in this story have real problems that I wish I could say are only found in books. But as a teacher, I'm often show just how hard young peoples life's can be. When those circumstances become overpowering, true character emerges. That what happens in this story. Put in the worst of situations, Liv is forced to make choices she would never choose. Giving up her own plans, she survives. But surviving was never the plan and Will has a way of seeing things differently.
I adore Will. His character is not negative as I might have thought from the blurb. His life is far from perfect but his attitude is content. His actions and choices are good. His feeling genuine. He is a good man - determined and caring. I want to hug him and hold him. He means the world to me.
As the story plays out, my heart is heavy but excited. I love these two together and I'm cheering for them. They need their forever. They deserve their happiness. I can't ask for more from a book than to want the best for the characters I have grown to love.
If you've ever read this author, you know you need to grab this one. If you haven't then start with this one. It can stand alone and you will be oh so glad you picked it up.
December 29, 2021
This was such a great book. Very different from what we are used to from Nicole, but that was a good thing.
Liv is a strong female, who has escaped the darkened past of her youth. Growing up with a drug addict mother in a rundown town was something that Liv vowed she would stay far away from. She was able to manage that for a few years, but a call from one of her kid sisters changes her well thought out plans.
One of Liv's mottos was to NOT fall in love with a local boy, but her motto is tested when she sees Will Goods. She knows that there is something different about him. He's not like any of the other local boys.
When no other jobs are available in town, Liv is forced to take a job that she is not proud of, but knows that she needs to do what is necessary to provide for her sisters.
As hard as Liv tries to separate herself from Will, she is drawn to him, and can't stay away. Lines get blurred and paths cross to bring these two together.
There is a huge secret that Will is hiding, and when the truth comes out, will it rip them apart or help to cement them together? Will thinks that he is Damaged Goods, and not good enough for Liv...
I fell in love with these two and their story. I laughed, I cried and even felt some heat coming from these pages. Another sweet book boyfriend to add to my list.
Liv is a strong female, who has escaped the darkened past of her youth. Growing up with a drug addict mother in a rundown town was something that Liv vowed she would stay far away from. She was able to manage that for a few years, but a call from one of her kid sisters changes her well thought out plans.
One of Liv's mottos was to NOT fall in love with a local boy, but her motto is tested when she sees Will Goods. She knows that there is something different about him. He's not like any of the other local boys.
When no other jobs are available in town, Liv is forced to take a job that she is not proud of, but knows that she needs to do what is necessary to provide for her sisters.
As hard as Liv tries to separate herself from Will, she is drawn to him, and can't stay away. Lines get blurred and paths cross to bring these two together.
There is a huge secret that Will is hiding, and when the truth comes out, will it rip them apart or help to cement them together? Will thinks that he is Damaged Goods, and not good enough for Liv...
I fell in love with these two and their story. I laughed, I cried and even felt some heat coming from these pages. Another sweet book boyfriend to add to my list.
September 6, 2016
After reading the first book in this series I did not want to read this one, but after reading the blurb and realizing it was a different setting and characters (thank god) I decided to give it a shot. I'm glad I did, because this one was so, so much better. I won't spoil anything but Will's disability took me by surprise. In retrospect it makes sense but I honestly thought it was something else and didn't understand how Liv could be so dumb. I still don't, but since I was thrown off too I'll give some slack. Like another reviewer stated, Liv was pretty self-absorbed but I don't feel it was annoying or over the top. I think, all things considered, I'd probably be as crazy and out of it given her situation.
September 29, 2016
Oh.. another good one by Nicole Williams.
Liv is a woman trying to make ends meet, but when she has to go back to take care of her two sisters because their deadbeat mom left them, she gets a surprise with one of the neighbors... Will Goods. Oh Will... Will... when she starts to fall in love with him... she finds out a secret that blows her mind! AND MINE!
She also gets a job as a "dancer" soooo that adds some spice to it... HAHAHA!
OH the secret! It was... I was like... WHAAAT?! Then I had to re-read some parts... and was like... yuuup... makes sense. And it all ties in with each other! OH! This book! Could not put down! Must read!
This gets 5 PIGGIES!
Liv is a woman trying to make ends meet, but when she has to go back to take care of her two sisters because their deadbeat mom left them, she gets a surprise with one of the neighbors... Will Goods. Oh Will... Will... when she starts to fall in love with him... she finds out a secret that blows her mind! AND MINE!
She also gets a job as a "dancer" soooo that adds some spice to it... HAHAHA!
OH the secret! It was... I was like... WHAAAT?! Then I had to re-read some parts... and was like... yuuup... makes sense. And it all ties in with each other! OH! This book! Could not put down! Must read!
This gets 5 PIGGIES!
February 6, 2017
HOLY BOMB DROP! I didn't see that coming! :)
I love Nicole Williams. I'm really just drawn to her writing style. I love her use of agonized characters. They all have their own distinctive characteristics that draw you in and make you understand them, even if you've never been in their shoes. Funny how I expected to even hate Jake, but I couldn't.
I did not expect Liv's job path and I definitely didn't expect Will's "secret".
I love Nicole Williams. I'm really just drawn to her writing style. I love her use of agonized characters. They all have their own distinctive characteristics that draw you in and make you understand them, even if you've never been in their shoes. Funny how I expected to even hate Jake, but I couldn't.
I did not expect Liv's job path and I definitely didn't expect Will's "secret".
February 23, 2016
I just couldn't get into this. I kept trying and trying, but all that did was make skim and skim just to get through it. I really love this author so I feel bad giving a low rating but I just feel so meh about this. The heroine is your typical self sacrificing, self punishing NA heroine. The guy was a saint. Nothing about it drew me in. Just not for me :(
January 26, 2015
this book was amazing ! loved Will !
December 27, 2014
Review By Leeann
This is the story of Liv Bennett. She is a young girl working part time to support her way through college. She has escaped her past & is determined to fight for the future she desperately wants.. and deserves.
She has a mediocre boyfriend & is not surprised when she catches him out with another woman.
Then the day she has been working towards comes & she gets a phone call that changes everything. Her little sister calls to tell her their mother has left & she has to go back to the place she escaped from & take care of her 2 sisters.
There she gets herself a job she never thought she would do, but hey someone has to pay the bills, right?? So by day she is Liv & by night she is Noelle.
Then she meets Will. Will is a medically retired soldier who has come home to care for his sick mother.
Liv & Will have so much in common, but more importantly they have an unexpected explosive attraction. Will falls hard & fast, but Liv takes a bit more convincing.
Liv is busting her butt working nights & taking care of her sisters by day, she doesn’t know if she has room for Will or if she even wants him in her life.
This story follows a you girl who feels like life has dealt her & her sisters a crappy hand. She feels like her mother has condemned them to a miserable existence & they cannot hope for any better than what they have got. She is the eternal pessimist. She is so wrapped up in her own pity party that she can’t see what is right in front of her. She is oblivious to how much her sisters love and appreciate that she left her life behind to look after them and she is completely ignorant to Wills feelings towards her. She is so busy trying to protect her heart she fails to see him for the good guy he is.
Between her 2 sisters and will Liv slowly learns to have faith in herself & faith in others. She learns to laugh again, trust again, to live life to its fullest & to love with all her heart. It certainly doesn’t happen overnight and she has to work at it, but she learns it is so worth it to love & be loved.
This book delivers a very powerful message… All is not lost, when you think your life is bad & you have no way out, have a good look around & you will realise you are surrounded by love, hope & joy.
As the author writes: ‘Love wasn’t a chore, it was a privilege’
I absolutely loved Liv & Wills story, I would recommend to anyone who loves a character that has had a rough start & discovers they have it in them to fight for what they want & come out on top with their own happy ever after!!
5 Stars . . .Leeann
Review By Heather
Liv Bennett did everything she could to get out of her Podunk town in Nevada, drug addicted mother and the crappy trailer she grew up in. She put herself through college and made enough money where she could send some home to her little sisters so that they could be taken care of somewhat. Liv’s one rule in life was to NEVER fall for a guy from her hometown otherwise she would be stuck there forever, in a trailer with a child and a dead beat dad. That all changes when her mother bolts leaving her two teenage sisters to fend for themselves and Liv gives up her new life to go home and help out her sisters. After a few weeks of not being able to find a job, no food in the house and the electricity about to be shut off Liv is offered a job as stripper. She puts it out of her mind until one of her sisters gets caught shoplifting and decides to take the job.
In the meantime Liv meets next door neighbor and former town trouble maker Will Goods and sparks fly. There is a connection between the two of them that Liv tries desperately to ignore. Every time their paths cross Will starts to prove to Liv more and more that he is not the typical guy that comes from Death Valley. He is kind, caring and does his best to take care of Liv whether she wants him to or not. Can Liv open herself up to the idea that Will is actually a good buy or will she stay in the mindset that nothing good comes from a relationship with someone from her home town?
Damaged Goods is an amazing book! From what I have read of Nicole Williams she has a knack for writing strong, likeable and relatable female characters and Liv is no different. She is fierce in the way she loves and in the way she sacrifices herself for her two sisters. Despite everything Liv has gone through she stays true to herself and that is what makes her so strong in my opinion.
Will is such a sweet yet swoon worthy character. He is ex-military, slightly mysterious and is fierce as well in the same ways that Liv is. Will is a good guy plain and simple. He is not former a bad boy, not a man whore and is not an asshole.
This book had me from the first paragraph. It is relatable, funny at times, frustrating at others, very sweet, sexy and the WTF moments totally blew me away. There were a few things that I did not see coming and I loved every twist and turn.
I highly recommend this book to those who love a good romance with some surprises thrown in.Liv Bennett did everything she could to get out of her Podunk town in Nevada, drug addicted mother and the crappy trailer she grew up in. She put herself through college and made enough money where she could send some home to her little sisters so that they could be taken care of somewhat. Liv’s one rule in life was to NEVER fall for a guy from her hometown otherwise she would be stuck there forever, in a trailer with a child and a dead beat dad. That all changes when her mother bolts leaving her two teenage sisters to fend for themselves and Liv gives up her new life to go home and help out her sisters. After a few weeks of not being able to find a job, no food in the house and the electricity about to be shut off Liv is offered a job as stripper. She puts it out of her mind until one of her sisters gets caught shoplifting and decides to take the job.
In the meantime Liv meets next door neighbor and former town trouble maker Will Goods and sparks fly. There is a connection between the two of them that Liv tries desperately to ignore. Every time their paths cross Will starts to prove to Liv more and more that he is not the typical guy that comes from Death Valley. He is kind, caring and does his best to take care of Liv whether she wants him to or not. Can Liv open herself up to the idea that Will is actually a good buy or will she stay in the mindset that nothing good comes from a relationship with someone from her home town?
Damaged Goods is an amazing book! From what I have read of Nicole Williams she has a knack for writing strong, likeable and relatable female characters and Liv is no different. She is fierce in the way she loves and in the way she sacrifices herself for her two sisters. Despite everything Liv has gone through she stays true to herself and that is what makes her so strong in my opinion.
Will is such a sweet yet swoon worthy character. He is ex-military, slightly mysterious and is fierce as well in the same ways that Liv is. Will is a good guy plain and simple. He is not former a bad boy, not a man whore and is not an asshole.
This book had me from the first paragraph. It is relatable, funny at times, frustrating at others, very sweet, sexy and the WTF moments totally blew me away. There were a few things that I did not see coming and I loved every twist and turn.
I highly recommend this book to those who love a good romance with some surprises thrown in.
4.5 Stars . . . Heather
This is the story of Liv Bennett. She is a young girl working part time to support her way through college. She has escaped her past & is determined to fight for the future she desperately wants.. and deserves.
She has a mediocre boyfriend & is not surprised when she catches him out with another woman.
Then the day she has been working towards comes & she gets a phone call that changes everything. Her little sister calls to tell her their mother has left & she has to go back to the place she escaped from & take care of her 2 sisters.
There she gets herself a job she never thought she would do, but hey someone has to pay the bills, right?? So by day she is Liv & by night she is Noelle.
Then she meets Will. Will is a medically retired soldier who has come home to care for his sick mother.
Liv & Will have so much in common, but more importantly they have an unexpected explosive attraction. Will falls hard & fast, but Liv takes a bit more convincing.
Liv is busting her butt working nights & taking care of her sisters by day, she doesn’t know if she has room for Will or if she even wants him in her life.
This story follows a you girl who feels like life has dealt her & her sisters a crappy hand. She feels like her mother has condemned them to a miserable existence & they cannot hope for any better than what they have got. She is the eternal pessimist. She is so wrapped up in her own pity party that she can’t see what is right in front of her. She is oblivious to how much her sisters love and appreciate that she left her life behind to look after them and she is completely ignorant to Wills feelings towards her. She is so busy trying to protect her heart she fails to see him for the good guy he is.
Between her 2 sisters and will Liv slowly learns to have faith in herself & faith in others. She learns to laugh again, trust again, to live life to its fullest & to love with all her heart. It certainly doesn’t happen overnight and she has to work at it, but she learns it is so worth it to love & be loved.
This book delivers a very powerful message… All is not lost, when you think your life is bad & you have no way out, have a good look around & you will realise you are surrounded by love, hope & joy.
As the author writes: ‘Love wasn’t a chore, it was a privilege’
I absolutely loved Liv & Wills story, I would recommend to anyone who loves a character that has had a rough start & discovers they have it in them to fight for what they want & come out on top with their own happy ever after!!
5 Stars . . .Leeann
Review By Heather
Liv Bennett did everything she could to get out of her Podunk town in Nevada, drug addicted mother and the crappy trailer she grew up in. She put herself through college and made enough money where she could send some home to her little sisters so that they could be taken care of somewhat. Liv’s one rule in life was to NEVER fall for a guy from her hometown otherwise she would be stuck there forever, in a trailer with a child and a dead beat dad. That all changes when her mother bolts leaving her two teenage sisters to fend for themselves and Liv gives up her new life to go home and help out her sisters. After a few weeks of not being able to find a job, no food in the house and the electricity about to be shut off Liv is offered a job as stripper. She puts it out of her mind until one of her sisters gets caught shoplifting and decides to take the job.
In the meantime Liv meets next door neighbor and former town trouble maker Will Goods and sparks fly. There is a connection between the two of them that Liv tries desperately to ignore. Every time their paths cross Will starts to prove to Liv more and more that he is not the typical guy that comes from Death Valley. He is kind, caring and does his best to take care of Liv whether she wants him to or not. Can Liv open herself up to the idea that Will is actually a good buy or will she stay in the mindset that nothing good comes from a relationship with someone from her home town?
Damaged Goods is an amazing book! From what I have read of Nicole Williams she has a knack for writing strong, likeable and relatable female characters and Liv is no different. She is fierce in the way she loves and in the way she sacrifices herself for her two sisters. Despite everything Liv has gone through she stays true to herself and that is what makes her so strong in my opinion.
Will is such a sweet yet swoon worthy character. He is ex-military, slightly mysterious and is fierce as well in the same ways that Liv is. Will is a good guy plain and simple. He is not former a bad boy, not a man whore and is not an asshole.
This book had me from the first paragraph. It is relatable, funny at times, frustrating at others, very sweet, sexy and the WTF moments totally blew me away. There were a few things that I did not see coming and I loved every twist and turn.
I highly recommend this book to those who love a good romance with some surprises thrown in.Liv Bennett did everything she could to get out of her Podunk town in Nevada, drug addicted mother and the crappy trailer she grew up in. She put herself through college and made enough money where she could send some home to her little sisters so that they could be taken care of somewhat. Liv’s one rule in life was to NEVER fall for a guy from her hometown otherwise she would be stuck there forever, in a trailer with a child and a dead beat dad. That all changes when her mother bolts leaving her two teenage sisters to fend for themselves and Liv gives up her new life to go home and help out her sisters. After a few weeks of not being able to find a job, no food in the house and the electricity about to be shut off Liv is offered a job as stripper. She puts it out of her mind until one of her sisters gets caught shoplifting and decides to take the job.
In the meantime Liv meets next door neighbor and former town trouble maker Will Goods and sparks fly. There is a connection between the two of them that Liv tries desperately to ignore. Every time their paths cross Will starts to prove to Liv more and more that he is not the typical guy that comes from Death Valley. He is kind, caring and does his best to take care of Liv whether she wants him to or not. Can Liv open herself up to the idea that Will is actually a good buy or will she stay in the mindset that nothing good comes from a relationship with someone from her home town?
Damaged Goods is an amazing book! From what I have read of Nicole Williams she has a knack for writing strong, likeable and relatable female characters and Liv is no different. She is fierce in the way she loves and in the way she sacrifices herself for her two sisters. Despite everything Liv has gone through she stays true to herself and that is what makes her so strong in my opinion.
Will is such a sweet yet swoon worthy character. He is ex-military, slightly mysterious and is fierce as well in the same ways that Liv is. Will is a good guy plain and simple. He is not former a bad boy, not a man whore and is not an asshole.
This book had me from the first paragraph. It is relatable, funny at times, frustrating at others, very sweet, sexy and the WTF moments totally blew me away. There were a few things that I did not see coming and I loved every twist and turn.
I highly recommend this book to those who love a good romance with some surprises thrown in.
4.5 Stars . . . Heather
June 26, 2018
Idk, there was just something about it. As a reader you realize something is off with Will from the get go, so it’s weird that Liv sees nothing...and she’s so determined to judge him based on where he’s from, which is probably part of why. Then, she’s in love with him, but thinks he’s been cheating on her with stripper her since he couldn’t see..it’s frustrating because if she hadn’t been so adamant about not discussing things with him, she would’ve known everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2018
I LOVED THIS STORY ABOUT COURAGE AND ABNEGATION; I LOVED LIV AND WILL, REESE AND PAIGE AND JAKE AND CHERRY; I loved the fact she didn't noticed Will as disabled . I loved her insecurity, her weakness and her and his strenghth. I discovered Nicole Williams with her amazing and breathtaking tortured and I also loved this book
March 12, 2020
Nicole's wit is something you can taste from this Outsider Chronicles series. I liked this series, but halfway through the second book, the storyline became quite boring.
November 23, 2020
I like the story so much! Was something different. But, there was just to much inner dialogue I pretty much skipped right through it.
January 16, 2021
4.5 ⭐️!! Freaking amazing book! I totally loved the characters but I also loved the twists and turns!! AMAZING!! I loved it! Will is amazing!!
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