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Ashia
A dark aura, one that embodies those that work for Dust, has taken over the city. The pieces are slowly coming together, colliding at a pace that is both too fast and slow, and Damien is taking every hit as they've come. He’s everything I’ve ever wanted, but now I feel that I’m losing him. His consuming need for revenge holds his thoughts in a cruel grip, driving everything he does. While I came out on the other side alive, it’s like he’s slowly decaying. So enraptured in guilt and self-deprecation that he’s fading away, leaving only the dark God I see him as to take his place. He’ll be the last one standing, but he’ll be a sculpture in flames. I’m finally ready for my place at his side, even as his inferno scorches me.

Damien
My mind is clouded, trapped in nothing but a dark haze that encircles us like vultures. No matter how closely I hold her, there’s another blow that manages to land in the most excruciating places. On top of the escalation from the vile criminals that came after us, her recovery is agonizingly slow, serving as a constant reminder of my failures, and I don’t know how to control my urges anymore. It’s like I’m being controlled by a force that I can’t see, one that is cruel and demonic, almost ethereal, but I cannot drag her down to hell with me. She will always stand above anything and everything else, even if I have to reduce it all to ashes.

407 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 2, 2025

28 people want to read

About the author

Winnie Brooks

7 books72 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Questionable Reads and Java Beans.
5 reviews1 follower
October 7, 2025
**ARC READER**

I was a little late to this party, getting this book finished up and shouting to the world how absolutely amazing it is. Silly life getting in the way. Don't you just hate it when life gets in the way of reading a good book? And this was a GOOD BOOK!!!

At the end of book one (Cut Me Down), things were left very precariously and I was in so much (emotional) pain! I needed to know how this story was going to progress. I was chomping at the bit for this book, Tear Me Down, to be released so I could continue with this story.

These characters are well thought out. Damien is deep and tortured and striving to do the right thing. By the end of the first book I was really getting into Damien's character, but through this book I really fell hard for this man. Where do I get me one of him? There is nothing, absolutely nothing, he would not do for Ashia and he shows that time and time again, on each and every page.

Ashia has changed a lot since the story started, but in a very good way, and a completely believable way for her character. She had a lot to go through, a lot of growth, and shedding of old self so she could become who she is meant to be.

The character I did have a love/hate relationship through this book? Serena. I get it, seeing Ashia go through everything was a lot for her, but damn! She had gone through so much, of course she wasn't going to be the same person. Serena needed to accept that a lot faster, in my opinion. Otherwise though, I was completely on board with this woman.

One of my favourite things about this book? Getting to know Damien's crew more. Seeing more connections and relationships. Starting to care about those characters and see who they are to him. We saw some of this in the first book but this book helps get to know these other characters more. Even though they might not be main characters in the story overall, they are very important characters to both Damien and Ashia.

Best character in this book? Daisy! That is it. That is all I will say.

The twists and turns! The way this book shifts. Sure, there were a few things I kinda saw coming (not gonna say what they were because no spoilers here from me), but the way Winnie wrote these things, even when I knew what was coming I was still so pulled into this story.

Thankfully this book didn't leave me as broken as Cut Me Down did at the ending, but in truth, I am almost more anxious to read on to the next book!!!

The spice was spicing in this book! I mean, yeah... spicing! *chef's kiss*

Just like Cut Me Down, Tear Me Down is a dark romance. Please read your trigger warnings and proceed appropriately for you. Personally, I love a delicious menu of triggers, but not everyone is as unhinged in their book choices as I am.

I need book three in this series now!! Like, right now!!!
Profile Image for Christy Davisson.
777 reviews18 followers
September 7, 2025
Action Packed Moments, Unforgettable Characters, And So Much More!!

This is the second book in this series and wow it does not disappoint!! It starts off right where book one ends and the chaos swirling around both Damien & Ashia comes barreling back with even more emotional moments. If you are looking for action packed chaos, intrigue, intense emotional journeys, spicy moments, and twists & turns that lead to unspeakable moments for these two then you absolutely need to grab this one!! You will be completely consumed by this one.

The suspense is intense and the emotional damage these two will face only goes to show the extreme connection and chemistry that Damien & Ashia have for one another. There will be ups and downs that will feel like it may break these two but their resilience to fight for their HEA will be tested in the most extreme ways so buckle up for some seriously twisted and heartbreaking moments this time around.

If you love your MMCs with the touch her & I will unalive you feel who have an unhealthy obsession and will burn the world down for their woman then Damien Hartley is your new obsession. He's what you love in a good unhinged book boyfriend that's for sure!! Now if you love your FMCs who have a tragic past but fight for a future and have the willpower to overcome trauma to find & keep the love of her life then Ashia Carpenter is exactly who you will undoubtedly love and cheer on. Do yourself a favor make sure you grab this book now because the author does a tremendous job weaving this chaotic world where vengeance and tragedy go hand in hand and love can transcend the worst imaginable nightmares. This is one wild ride with dark themes so make sure to check the TW beforehand and read responsibly. I can't wait to see where the author takes this next book.

Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Profile Image for Audi Walbridge.
131 reviews1 follower
September 1, 2025
Let me start with again check your trigger warnings, and if you haven't read book one you better get to it.

"Every soul that walks the earth's surface will know what happens when you hurt my woman."

Damien, Damien, Damien. He is a poster child for touch her and die- and you'll die painfully.

Winnie has done it again. I couldn't wait for book two after how book 1 ended. Ashia is one of the strongest FMC's and dear gourd she just continues to go through stuff but never gives up. We really see her confidence begin to build in this book.

I also love how much Ashia builds Damien up in learning to love himself and not put so much pressure on him.

The drug scene is getting dangerous, and DH is doing everything they can to figure out who is manufacturing the new drug but also what's in it. Of course, it can't be simple, and on top of it Damien pisses someone off and the best way to get to him is of course is through hurting Ashia, (which is extraaaaaa dumb on their part).

Also when Damien confesses the depth of his love in front of all their closest friends and family 😍

"I will remain completely devoted and enraptured with you through the recesses of time, amd even after it stops, the only thing that will remain is me and you." 😍

I also love these snippets of Carter & Serena, I kinda love them together.

I want to see so much more of Ashia and Zeke, I truly hope they continue to foster a relationship because you can just tell how much Zeke wants it.

Just when we think things may calm down and our couple will get a break, of course not.

So going to need book three now.... 😬😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sammyll.
339 reviews17 followers
September 6, 2025
This book certainly packed a punch! I couldn't wait to dive in to the continuation of Damien & Ashia's story. Gore, angst, drama, sizzling hotness, emotional turmoil, this book had everything! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. You will want to shout & scream, shed a tear, and fan yourself.

Throughout this gem of a book, you will not want to do anything else but read. The story continues from book one, Damien ever protective of Ashia, doesn't hold back from his feeling's, he is so in love, finding his soulmate. Ashia, also feel's the same, but they have so much trauma and drama to get through before they finally have peace. The side character's also hold their own with their own battles we have yet to fully read about.
Inhale these characters, digest their hurt, their battles and gst hooked like I did.
I love this series and these characters so much, Winnie is very talented, she makes you feel like you are a part something special. The writing flows freely, making the reader experience that much more involved. Eagerly anticipating book three as the epilogue was intriguing, featuring a character that I am sure holds a mysterious place in the story, more than what is revealed at the minute.
Totally mindblowing and much more that 10/10, highly anticipating book three to finalise this amazing series but also to read more from Winnie who is so talented. Thanks to Winnie for sending me an ARC copy which I reviewed, all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kai.
149 reviews
December 22, 2025
This book certainly packs a punch! I couldn’t wait to dive into the continuation of Damien and Ashia’s story. Full of gore, angst, drama, sizzling chemistry, and emotional turmoil, this book had it all! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time—be prepared to shout, cry, and maybe even fan yourself!

From start to finish, you won’t want to do anything else but keep reading. The story picks up right where book one left off, with Damien, ever protective of Ashia, completely unreserved about his feelings. He’s deeply in love, finally finding his soulmate. Ashia feels the same, but their journey is far from easy. There’s a lot of trauma and drama to work through before they can find any semblance of peace. And don’t forget the side characters—they’ve got their own battles, some of which we’re still waiting to fully uncover.

Breathe in these characters, feel their pain and struggles, and get hooked just like I did. I’m completely in love with this series and these characters. Winnie Brooks is incredibly talented; she makes you feel like you’re part of something truly special. Her writing flows effortlessly, pulling you deeper into the story and making every moment feel real.

Now, I’m eagerly awaiting book three! The epilogue was such a tease, featuring a character I’m sure holds a mysterious role in the story—more than we know right now.
349 reviews
September 10, 2025
Tear Me Down is book two in the Descent to Darkness Trilogy and is the continuation of Damien and Ashia's story from book one.

This book did not disappoint and is packed with even more emotional moments for Damien and Ashia. There is so much suspense and chaos whirling around and the emotional carnage that they will have to endure only highlights the connection and chemistry that they have for one another.

Damien is the king of touch her and die and his wrath will be painful and extreme. Ashia has the ability to build Damien up and teaches him to love himself, even when he can't see it.

There are so many twists and turns that will leave you gasping for what is coming next. Winnie's ability to paint who the characters (main and side) are is so well done that each character only adds to the storyline and the dynamic throughout the book. The growth that Damien and Ashia show in this book is wonderful and rewarding. Highly recommended and can't wait for book three!

I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Shelby Abshire.
66 reviews9 followers
September 6, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW: Tear Me Down ✨📚
🗓 Read: 08/18/25 – 09/06/25
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 HUGE stars!)

I just finished Tear Me Down and I’m absolutely shattered—in the BEST way possible. 😭❤️‍🔥

This book pulled me in from page one and never let go. It’s raw, emotional, intense, and so beautifully written. The characters? Flawed, fierce, and unforgettable. The chemistry? 🔥🔥🔥 And the emotional depth? Let’s just say I’m still thinking about it days later.

I love when a story breaks you open and then slowly stitches you back together—and that’s exactly what this one did. 💔➡️💖

If you love:
✨ Emotional, character-driven romance
✨ Trauma healing arcs done right
✨ That perfect blend of angst + hope
✨ Strong, scarred, but deeply lovable characters

Then Tear Me Down needs to be on your TBR immediately. 👏

📖 Big thanks to the author/publisher for the ARC—this was a powerful read I won’t forget.
101 reviews2 followers
September 9, 2025
The intense love story between Ashia and Damien continues in the second part of the trilogy. I was very happy to see how far Ashia had come in her growth journey. She was so confident and comfortable in her own skin.

Ashia was also the one who offered strength when Damien was doubting himself. The way he loved Ashia was so beautifully depicted that he is sure to be the perfect book boyfriend.

This story picks up right after Cut Me Down and the pace is fast. A lot of new characters are introduced like Ashia and Damien’s families and loved ones. Detailed characters who add value to the storyline.

The couple get engaged and that's when an old enemy comes into break the two apart. Damien is willing to move mountains to save his precious Ashia. The two are reunited and the book ends with them stronger than ever before. Can't wait for the conclusion to this nail-biting trilogy!

Highly recommend 👍🏻
158 reviews4 followers
August 23, 2025
OMG! She did it again!!! Winnie how do you keep pumping out such great books??? I need book 3 NOW!!! Ok let me back up first.

Damien and Asha have been through sooo much! So much happens again in this book, you don’t want to quit reading! How can these two survive all that they have to endure for one another? Just when you think things are going to calm down, something else happens!

Damien is always there to try to protect Ashia. Ashia is always there to try to calm and support Damien. Their undeniable love for one another is beyond words.

This book leaves you hanging for the next one. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one!! How much longer do we have to wait?? I think Ashia needs a K-9 of her own…



54 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2025
This book was raw, emotional, and addictive from start to finish. The characters were so layered and flawed that I couldn’t help but root for them, even when their choices broke me. Winnie knows how to pull you in, rip your heart out, and somehow still leave you begging for more. The tension, the angst, the chemistry—it was all perfection. I couldn’t put it down, and when I finished, I was left with that delicious book hangover I crave. If you love stories that make you feel everything—this is it.
Profile Image for Chante Heaven.
865 reviews21 followers
September 4, 2025
This book was truly an epic read filled with angst and tension. Damien felt much more human in this installment; he’s still sweet with Ash, but the near-death experience Ashia faced in the first book definitely took a toll on him.

It was incredible to see Ashia make significant progress in overcoming her trauma to the point where she can finally confront her childhood experiences.

This duet has been captivating, featuring elements like found family, romance, intense moments, and plenty of tension. I hope Carter gets his own book next!
Profile Image for Vicki Glover.
199 reviews11 followers
September 26, 2025
I loved this sequel in the Descent to Darkness Series. I fall even more in love with Damien as his love for Ashia grows to know no bounds. The plot is suspenseful and made me not want to stop reading. The character development is amazing. I love how much we see now in Serena and Carter. I read the bonus chapter at the end and omg! I really really don't want anything to happen to Charlie so I'm left feeling sad. This book has some very dark scenes so definitely read the trigger warnings before you read this one. But, I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
12 reviews
October 1, 2025
This picks up right where Cut Me Down leaves off and it is a roller-coaster. From Ashia's road to recovery to long lost family (who are closer than you think). Best friend fights and menty b's. As Damien gets closer to taking down the enemy, Ashia's safety is more at risk than it ever was. When the unthinkable happens - thanks for that little heart attack, Winnie- Damien will stop at nothing to protect his little wolf.

Check your trigger warnings because this one is dark.
And P.S. we get to see Charlie again :)
Profile Image for Charlene Alana  Henderson .
1,322 reviews33 followers
October 13, 2025
This is book 2 in the descent to darkness trilogy. This book will have you on the edge of your seat and jaw on the ground.

Once you pick it up you can't put it down. I sure didn't want too. It's a epic rollercoaster ride, with amazing characters, storyline and plot.

It's action packed with chaos, spice, suspense, emotional journeys , twists and turns and plenty more.

The chemistry between them is so intense and blinding. But life definitely throws them through a loop.

I'm so ready for the next book from Winnie. She's highly becoming a favourite of mine. Highly recommend.
1,156 reviews23 followers
November 28, 2025
The Twists and Turns Keep Coming!



What a wild ride this story is. Just as I think I’ve figured out where things are going, it all changes up and I can’t believe the path it’s on. This book has continue to keep my attention and many things got pushed aside because I only intended to read a bit of it then to go do what I needed to do and pick it back up later, but that never happened. Once I started, I could not stop. I can’t wait to read more of Ashia and Damien’s stories.



Profile Image for Kelly.
9 reviews2 followers
September 4, 2025
Book 2 of 3. Must read Cut Me Down first!

I'm in love with this couple. Both have interesting pasts and things they're healing from. While they work on themselves, they find strength in each other and show a real depiction of love everlasting. Plus, it has so much spice and dirty talk.

Make sure you check the trigger warnings for your mental health, and if you're good, you're in for a wild ride.
Profile Image for Arielle.
78 reviews6 followers
September 30, 2025
omg whaaaat?! I NEED to know what happens next now after reading this book!! Just like the first one, it put me through a LOT of emotions. Actually, I think more than Cut Me Down, but I LOVED everything about it!! I can't express this enough but PLEASE READ THE TRIGGER WARNINGS!! Your mental health matters!! My emotions were all over the place while reading this book! I can't wait for the third book to be released!!
223 reviews9 followers
September 30, 2025
Tear Me Down is book 2 and is the continuation of Ashia and Damien's story. The emotions I felt were haywire and intense all at once. I love how Ashia continues to grow and her confidence is getting stronger with each passing day. Damien is there to protect her but not crowd her. The way the two are with each other is beautiful. I cannot wait for the final book and if you have not read this series, then you must.
Profile Image for Tay.
82 reviews8 followers
August 18, 2025
I’m anxious I need the third book now ! Like oh my god so much happened ! My mind is blown can I just hug ash like that poor girl . There’s good and bad parts something about Damien drives me crazy he’s like on my book boyfriends list but not in the top 10 right now ! I want them to have a hea !!!! Anyways check trigger warnings ! 10/10 Winnie did it again ❤️❤️
Profile Image for Megan Rohr.
48 reviews3 followers
August 30, 2025
I don’t think anything could make me love Damien & Ashia more than I do! This second in a trilogy ties some things up from the first book but opens a whole new can of wtf is wrong with people. Damian & Ashia can’t catch a break and Winnie Brook’s fantastic writing takes you on such an emotional roller coaster. That freaking cliff hanger 😩 I’m not so patiently waiting for the third book!!
Profile Image for Abby  Kokotovich .
50 reviews1 follower
September 1, 2025
I am over here crying right now like seriously. I loved this book and I love these characters I cannot get enough. I don't know how I am going to wait for the next or how I am going to be able to say goodbye to this couple they are just everything and so perfectly written. I just want to live in their world even with how f-ed up it is. Damien is still my number one book bf no one else can live up to his devotion.


Winnie get to writing I need to know what happens next ♥️.
Profile Image for Nicole Marie Johnson.
817 reviews22 followers
September 2, 2025
I devoured this book in a day! And let me tell you the deliciousness of this MMC and his touch her and be unalived attitude is so hot! Can I say she too has a touch of it too. The way they love and protect each other is 🔥So many things happen within these pages and yet your left wanting… no needing more! Cannot wait for the last book in this trilogy to come out!!
5,570 reviews
September 2, 2025
Ashia is a fierce female main character! It was such a joy to see her growth!

Damien is such a bad boy!
And love him?
Yes, yes I certainly did!

Emotional?
For me, most definitely!

Do I need the third book now?
No, I need it Yesterday!
This is going to be a really HARD WAIT!

High heat!
High intensity!

I loved it!
931 reviews22 followers
September 3, 2025
I need book 3 now! Not tomorrow, but now and definitely not next year! This author is truly amazing with words! She had you getting everything and keeps you so engaged! I could not put this down! I had to know what was going to happen next with the twist and turns in the book! If you haven't read book one run and read that one, then run to read this one when done!
Profile Image for Library.of.linds.
695 reviews31 followers
September 8, 2025
This is the second book in the series and book one needs to be read first. Also please check TW as this book is pretty dark.

This book is thick but totally worth it. Ashia and Damien’s relationship develops more and I loved it!!! There are so many details in this story and I devoured it in a couple days!!! I can’t wait to read more from Winnie. I really enjoy her writing style.
Profile Image for Dolores  Evans.
467 reviews11 followers
October 3, 2025
Winnie Brooks made me speechless again. Like I'm stunned. Holding my breath. I need more asap and will be impatiently patiently waiting for more. There were so many twists and turns, things I didn't even see coming! Yelled at my Kindle a few times, and I thought about throwing it too, lol. Everyone needs to read this series.
Profile Image for Katie Gilroy.
267 reviews5 followers
October 10, 2025
Wow! This book is insane! It’s so emotional, tense, suspenseful… it has all the feels. Even the uncomfortable ones. I laughed, I cried, I yelled at my e-reader a few times.
All in all I am really loving this trilogy. But that epilogue!?!? WHY?????
I can’t wait to see what happens next for all of these incredibly complex characters!
Profile Image for Christina Rose.
Author 11 books218 followers
August 24, 2025
A great sequel for Ashia and Damien! Ashia is making her way into a stronger person, and Damien is still always there to support her. This one closes some threads and opens up a bunch more, always keeping the reader guessing. The action is nonstop! Can't wait to see what book three has in store.
Profile Image for Dusty Shirley.
951 reviews11 followers
Read
November 16, 2025
Fantastic book 2

First read book 1 if you haven't. 2nd be prepared to not put this down. You will have action, emotional scenes, all the feels. It picks up where 1 leaves off and ups all the emotions. Superb character building
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