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Life Before Damaged (The Ferro Family) #7

Life Before Damaged, Volume 7: The Ferro Family

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BY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR H.M. WARD

Money. Power. Sex.

Even Pete Ferro, with that sinful body & beautiful blue gaze, can't drag me from here.
My life is finally mine. Things are finally going my way.

But as my life grows content, Pete's eyes grow troubled. There's something there, something beneath the pointed words and charm--someone real--and it scares him. The real Peter Ferro frightens me, too, but I won't give up on him--even if everyone else has.

Genre: New Adult Romance  
This story unfolds over multiple volumes  
Length: Approx. 130 pgs

130 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 20, 2015

34 people are currently reading
440 people want to read

About the author

H.M. Ward

140 books6,539 followers
H.M. Ward continues to reign as a NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author who surpassed more than 23 million books sold, placing her among the literary titans. Ward has been featured in articles in the NEW YORK TIMES, FORBES, and USA TODAY to name a few.

You can interact with this bestselling author at: www.facebook.com/AuthorHMWard.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Profile Image for H.M. Ward.
Author 140 books6,539 followers
July 11, 2015
description is up! preorder is up too! go grab Pete! :)
Profile Image for Deborah.
2,918 reviews22 followers
July 15, 2015
Holly has nailed LBD 7! My Pete is back! Gina and Pete continue to go through the motions that Mrs. Ferro has set in place. But what price will these two 'friends' pay? What is Connie's ultimate goal? Erin is back along with real, reality T.V. and Gina is embracing her inner dork and bringing Jenny out to play. Does Pete feel a relationship with Gina is worth the effort? Will he play into his mother's scheme? Does Gina feel a connection to him or will she run into the arms of an old friend? Will swing dancing bring these two together or break the fragile bond that, they already have, apart? I loved the comedy; the little comments that Gina finds herself saying. Emotions are running high. The players are almost in place. My heart is aching for Gina and my love for Pete is everlasting. Throughout the book I felt like I was right there with Gina watching her tell her story. Outstanding! Holly has definitely set the stage. She's turned down the lights and created the mood. There's a limit, a very specific time frame, and the clock is ticking. A must read!
Profile Image for Andrea Sanders.
108 reviews6 followers
July 14, 2015
A merger between two old families ?
An arranged marriage?
Or is this a relationship that runs on a much deeper understanding and attraction, than both of them are willing to own up to?
Gina has finally found some freedom in her life, and 'yes' fist pump the air, she is standing up for what she wants. For possibly the first time in her life.
Pete on the other hand is struggling !
With what?
He lets Gina in, on one hand and shoves her away, as fast as he can, with the other.
Is he trying to test her ? Or trying to make sure she is fully prepared for the 'family merger'

I can't wait for when they finally give in to their attraction for each other !
This ' friend's pact is killing them both, especially Gina when she comes close to watching Peter deliberately push her away using another woman !!
Some fantastic quotes in this instalment !
laugh out loud funny x

These novellas pull you in with their intrigue, banter and sexual tension !
Roll on part 8
Profile Image for Alicia Thomas.
19 reviews2 followers
July 16, 2015
OMG!! wow Gina sure has gotten herself in quite the pickle with Constance yet again lol.. I am in total shock as to how Gina's attitude has changed but I say kudos to you girl I would do the same things if I was being forced to do something I didn't want to do, even though Pete is amazingly hot :-) . I am anxious to see what repercussions Gina's actions cause her in the next book .. Total Awesomesauce Holly yet again another great addition to the LBD series.
Profile Image for J. Lum.
Author 5 books101 followers
July 15, 2015
H.M. Ward has done it again! What I love about her books, and LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED Vol 7 has it in spades, is that her characters are incredibly rich, complicated and you want to love and sometimes hate them every time you pick up another volume. Without a doubt, what we get is a real insight into our much loved Peter 'Ferro' Granz before DAMAGED 1 & 2. If anyone has any trepidation on picking up LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED series because of how much you love Sidney, DON'T be. I promise you that you will fall in love with Gina. LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED is a real journey for H.M. Ward's characters and as a reader you don't want to miss out. That being said, LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED 7 was incredibly good. I was laughing, sighing, frustrated and that makes for a very good read! There was some ah ha moments that made me smile BIG. Ultimately, Gina and Peter, each bring more to the story as it unfolds. These two from the beginning seem to be such an unlikely pair but as we get further and further into the book, it all makes a lot of sense what each of them do to each other. Gina is changing Pete and vice versa (for the better). As the story hasn't ended for these two, what I love is the complexities of their relationship as each is being "forced" to merge together. I loved every minute of LBD7. All I have to say is H.M. Ward created a powerhouse of a female character who has some of the biggest lady balls of them all. Gina/Jenny Granz manages to steal the show!!
Profile Image for Miranda Chiasson .
15 reviews
July 15, 2015
**ARC REVIEW** no spoilers...
As the story of LBD unfolds, it continues to be this brilliantly, captivating story. I absolutely love the fact that we get this story of Peter before Sidney. Gina is becoming a strong, honest character that I have grown to love. I see similarities in Sean and Peter... How their pride (of course for a Ferro) keeps them from succeeding in happiness. I love the fact that we are taken on these journeys through HM Ward's mind of their lives. It's not just a story on one brother and we never know the stories of the other members of the family. We see how each of their personalities unfold, how each interact with one another and their honest opinions of one another! LOL
To sum it up, I love this particular story of Gina and Peter. LBD7 holds up to the anticipation. It's captivating. It has hilarious moments. And moments like "Can I jump in this book and knock someone out!!" I love the emotion that HM Ward's books bring out as a reader, and I highly recommend this series. It's worth the read, and worth the short waits between books :-) ENJOY!
Profile Image for Kristi.
140 reviews10 followers
July 20, 2015
Two words "Absolutely Exciting!" I've so enjoyed this roller coaster life of Peter Ferro. The ride started with the Damaged series getting to know Pete & Avery and Pete's past with Gina in Life before Damaged. Reading about Pete's life before Avery is giving everyone big glimpses into his first love and how she re-shaped his whole life. I love Gina's spunkiness and her determination to become her own woman! She has an amazing effect on Pete and their chemistry is off the charts ;) The family drama is such an added bonus.. I gotta tell you though, I think this Phillip dude may shake things up a little! I can't wait for the next LBD!! Thanks Holly for another killer read.
Profile Image for Gabby Hillier.
101 reviews5 followers
July 15, 2015
************ARC REVIEW*******************

Mother of all things that are holy, all I have to say is DA-DAMN!!! This is crazy awesome like to be expected. This continues the story of Gina (Regina) and Peter (YUMMY!). As we know Pete is telling her to pack her sh*t and lets go she's coming to live with him. Well now we can all guess about how well that went. Gina is growing as a person and real feelings are starting to develop between Gina and Peter but they're both too pig headed to admit it not only to themselves but also to each other. A rather yummy wrench gets thrown into the plot and I can not wait to see how things turn out for our lovely group of characters in LBD 7.
Profile Image for Judy.
67 reviews1 follower
September 9, 2015

I loved it. This is the 7th book in the Life Before Damaged Series, they need to be read In order. I highly recommend it. In this installment we find Gina at a house party exploring her wild side and meeting new people. We have a new player in town and he is another hot alpha male named Phil. I won't write any spoilers but let's just say he adds a new twist to things. Gina and Peter need to execute the contract that Mrs. Ferro has demanded and become engaged. A black tie event announcing the acquisition of the Ganz company by Ferro Inc. seems like great place for the two to begin their relationship. However …. There is Phil. Get your copy now and join in Ferro fun you won't be disappointed
Profile Image for Anna.
310 reviews12 followers
July 15, 2015
***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***

I'd like to say that of the 7 books I think this one is the best. Gina has broken out of her shell and is really LIVING. Now that she kinda has a time limit for her 'freedom'. She really has showed us how to live. Pete on the other is starting to become REAL in a sense and actually has feelings ( and jealousy suites him well). He is quite funny and drives Gina crazy!
Profile Image for Cheryl.
57 reviews
July 15, 2015
I love this series because Pete and Gina have more sexual tension than Hersey's has chocolate kisses. I loved this one because we get to see Gina come out of her shell and make many attempts at taking control of her life.
Pete shows that he sees Gina as more than a means to an end. Can't wait for part 8. Can not believe there are only three books left. Makes my throat tighten because I know This story is being read from Ginas journals.

Excellent segment!!!!!
Profile Image for Janell Wheeler.
954 reviews11 followers
November 10, 2018
It shreds me to see Pete struggle so much. We are finally getting to see more of Pete an Gina and although she is finally coming into herself she still irks me. I can see that she is falling for Pete but she only sees what's on the surface. I know she keeps saying she sees more in Pete but when he does something to push her away she gets her feelings hurt and lets him push. She knows there's more to him but even she isn't giving him a fair chance. I know it's hard and it is much easier to cast stones but I'm waiting for her to open her eyes and see the walls he's put up. It hurts watching them destroy each other. Even the last line of this book, it just get's me. They could be so good if either of them would just let go.
456 reviews2 followers
October 6, 2019
Please Make It Stop

I’m down to one star right now. Ya know, I don’t believe Gina was murdered, I think she killed herself because she started reading these books.
Profile Image for Caryn.
2,395 reviews3 followers
January 13, 2020
Better and Better

Despite him being such a jerk you cant help but like Pete Ferro. There is a defiant vulnerability about him and I just feel he doesn’t want to be this man.
Profile Image for SL.
846 reviews
August 1, 2021
Both Pete and Gina were more likable although I’m still not connecting with her…
Profile Image for Tracy Grieve.
414 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2015
Ok so we pick up where we left off with Gina telling Peter no to moving in with him, and telling him things what she will use the bat for if he didn't leave, and the message he gives him to give to his mother oooh would have loved to have seen that conversation. Wanting her independence and smiling for the first time Gina is happy staying with Erin. Enjoying herself while she can she meets Phillip and they hit it off and if she wasn't already promised to Peter I think she would go for it with him.

It's the day of the merger between the two companies and Gina and Peter are the main attraction well in the end turns out Gina has a peek a boob moment. But Phillip is there and after Mrs Granz lets out her inner teenager, I think Gina is a little shocked at what can come out her mothers mouth.

I think Permafrost has met her match and should realise Gina is not going to be a pushover and bow to her every command.

Great read but with knowing the outcome of this series it makes you realise it's coming to an end soon and Peter and Gina need to stop dancing around and get it on in the bedroom department maybe a pole will be needed.
Profile Image for Kait.
164 reviews
July 20, 2015
DAMN YOU GINA! Seriously though. What does it take to find one pantie dropping guy, let alone two?! I plan on making Holly pay my hospital bills when I stage dive at a karaoke bar. Just when I want to love Pete and I think he loves himself too, he goes and effs it up or effs someone up (take that in whatever context you wish). The contract is put in motion and puppet master ice queen extraordinaire Connie is pulling all the strings. Looking for one night of fun before the beginning of the end, Gina quite literally falls into the arms of a dashing stranger. The next day she and Pete begin their first act in the public play that has become their courtship. Uncomfortable that anything between he and Gina could possibly be anything but a lie, Pete turns into that friend who makes fart noises when you're pouring your heart out because he can't deal with the emotion. This weeks episode of 'Reality TV' hits a bit too close to home. You left us all hanging in the worst ways possible Holly. Until next Ferro...
Profile Image for Angela Brothers.
72 reviews
August 21, 2015
Life Before Damaged 7, how many adjectives can I say; AWESOME, OUTSTANDING, EXCELLENT, BRILLIANT, TERRIFIC and that's just some that come to mind. H.M. Ward has scored a HOMERUN with this series, she has won the OSCAR, EMMY TONY, GRAMMY, AND PULTZER FOR LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED 7, in one simple word for me, I found LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED 7 PERFECTION!!!
Gina Granz, forced, manipulated, and shoved into an arranged marriage to Pete Ferro, decides she's not "THE BLUSHING BRIDE" yet, and goes to a party with her best friend/roommate Erin. The party is in full swing with music, singing, and lots of dancing. Gina's feeling her wild child and lets loose at the party, dancing up a storm, singing karaoke style, feeling carefree and happy, forgetting about Pete Ferro and his evil mom and her future plans for the kids. Gina meets hot guy Phil, the ideal man she should marry, not womanizer Pete Ferro. Does Gina stick to the "ARRANGEMENT" and marry Pete, or will she stand up to Constance Ferro and tell her to JUMP OFF A CLIFF and be with Phil?? We will see in VOL.8 of LIFE BEFORE DAMAGED !!
Profile Image for Crystal.
904 reviews15 followers
July 16, 2015
Holy hotness! Gina and Pete are going through the motions of an arranged marriage, or else!
Regina still has a little rebelliousness in her and she’s letting Jenny out to play. While out at a party, having the time of her life she meets Phillip. Unknowing his family connections and who he really is, they both hit it off. Phillip is the type of man Regina has always pictured herself with. Sadly this can never be, her life is no longer her own.
Constance has plans and she intends to see them through.
Pete is struggling with his true emotions. You can see it written all over his face. Is he really the bad playboy the tabloids portray or is he putting on an act, performing what everyone thinks.
Ahhh, I’m loving this struggle of friendship. A dangerous game is being played. Someone’s going to get hurt, someone’s going to break, the sh$t is going to hit the fan!
LBD8 – I need you now!!
Profile Image for Lynne White.
34 reviews
July 16, 2015
I was a lucky pick for an ARC of LBD 7!! This has been my favorite series so far by HM Ward. This story continues to bring Gina and Peter together with their marriage contract and family businesses merging. Gina is definitely coming into her own in this one! I'm left with a feeling I cannot describe in words though... I'm not sure if I'm frustrated that they seem to be coming together, and it's just not happening yet, or what it is... I feel like I'm just routing for them, and obvi after reading all the other books, I know it's coming, but I want it NOW hahaa. Yet then I know what does finally happen, as we all do if you've read Damaged, that I see it coming and wish it didn't have to. So yes, that is my review... It's a great continuation, and I will definitely be waiting for the next one!!!!
Profile Image for Crystal.
335 reviews
July 20, 2015
Gina is really starting to love her new independent life, and she is not about to let Pete, Constance or anyone else take that away from her. She is finally able to enjoy the things most twenty-something's enjoy, parties, dancing, karaoke and stage diving! Stage diving... way to go Jenny!
The attraction between Gina and Pete is always in the background. Then sweet, handsome Phillip comes on the scene, causing temptation. She starts to realize that that she needs more for her life. She needs love.
When Pete pushes her to the edge will she finally tell him how she feels? Will Pete ever be able to admit his feelings? Will Gina be able to convince Pete that he is worthy of love?
Holly has completely amazed me again with her story lines, amazing characters, twists and overall Ferro schmexiness.
Profile Image for Angie Picardi-Hagerdorn.
414 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2015
Another wonderful installment of the LBD series!! 7 is so much fun. We see Gina living her life, living it for her, having fun & enjoying everything. She knows she soon will be in a loveless marriage with a hot,but aggravating man with a roaming libido and a mother in law from hell!! She plans to live her life & enjoy every single inch of it until she is a Ferro wife!! I don't think she plans on Phillip...or what she feels for him. Does she still want Pete? I know as a reader, I "feel" emotions from Ms. Ward's characters and I "feel" like Gina still wants Pete. Why she won't admit it, I'm not sure. And Pete...well, he made it pretty clear to me what he thinks about Gina. I am so sad the series is almost over, but so excited to see what amazing story Ms. Ward comes up with for the finish!!!
Profile Image for Helena Bookhooked .
449 reviews53 followers
July 21, 2015
This series is a fabulous insight into the character of Peter Granz aka Ferro from the Damaged books.

These books feature a very different Peter than in the previous series, he is cocky, a womaniser and even though he seems so different the elements that we loved about him in damaged do seep through in this book.

The books are told from Gina's POV and she is a really great and likeable character and I can see why Holly felt the need to give her character life.... The only thing that irks me is that we know the outcome of the story (if you are a Ferro fanatic).

I'm really liking the snippets from Constance Ferro as she has been a bit of an enigma and I love her cold hearted nature it's blends perfectly in the direction that these serials are going in...

These are a must read for the Ferro Fanatics.
Profile Image for Holly Michelle.
89 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2015
Well. I am not sure exactly where to start. I felt this was the best installment of Life Before Damaged so far. Like the previous books so much goes on and we learn a little more each time.
In true HM Ward writing fashion she makes it easy to feel each characters emotions and feelings. From intense to happy her writing style is always on point and makes the characters really come to life. As she also makes it easy to imagine the story playing out in your head as you read a long. That is what makes a great Author.
From Gina's wild side, to the new man we meet, to the sexual tension in the arranged situation by Mrs Ferro you feel all the ups and downs, all the fun and excitement right a long with them.
If you haven't read this series and you are debating then don't wait. Go one click book one and get started. I promise this series won't let you down.
Profile Image for Lisa Miller.
217 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2015
I really enjoyed this side of Gina, she is enjoying her freedom but at the same time she wants Pete. I couldn't believe Pete put on the show that he did, Gina was so upset. Mr. and Mrs.Ferro have really done some damage to the boys, it's no wonder they turned out the way they did. Gina was having so much fun at Ricky's party especially when she met Phil, which could turn out to be a bad thing according to Constance but I agree with
Gina, if Pete can screw around why can't she. I think LBS 7 is my favorite so far in this series. I think Holly is amazing, I don't know how she does it with everything she has going on. I really love reading her books, I put whatever I'm reading down so that I can read her new book.
Profile Image for AJ's Book ReMarks.
1,584 reviews41 followers
July 20, 2015
1st loved having this book automatically appear on my Kindle.
2nd Spoiler Alert

I guess you could have all types of addictions; alcohol, drugs, sex, adrenaline, pain etc.....
Best line " I'll shove Erin's bat so far up your ass you'll have two dicks."
However, there are lots of one-liners in volume 7 that are very funny.

In this volume, you notice more the interaction between 2 people who have more feelings then they are expressing to themselves or each other. Furthermore, you see that although Gina's feelings for Peter are more than like, Philip is more her type. If she really had a choice, I really think that she would choose Philip over Peter, although not sure how Philip swing dances or strip teases.
Profile Image for Leslie Atkinson.
36 reviews11 followers
July 21, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have to say, this book was one of my favorite installments in this series. Gina feels like a real person. Gone is the spoiled daddy's girl. Gone is the whiny "poor me" character. She's acting like many of us would act when faced with the same situation. Peter is swoon worthy. He's also becoming more down to earth (in his moments) and I'm anxiously waiting for his walls to be broken down so he can be real with Gina. I loved the triangle twist as well as the live reality TV. It made the story more interesting and complex.

I love HM Ward as an author, but I don't love every book. This one was a page turner for me and I'm so excited to see how the rest of Gina and Peter's story unfolds.
Profile Image for Marissa.
70 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2015
Sweet torture.. Gina and Pete are two pawns in the sinfully epic Ferro chess match. But when the lines become blurred in LBD7, both Gina and Pete revert back to their infamous states of denial. However, when Constance demands results, she will get them one way or another. In the battle of Gina's newfound, witty self assurance vs Constance's iron fist, fight to the death mentality, there can only be one winner. And it appears that a chance at true love for Gina will be caught in the crosshairs. LBD7 is PACKED to the seems of hopeless, anger driven, all consuming lust! Without a doubt, another five star addition to the Ferro empire!! Well done H.M. Ward! Cannot wait for the next roller coaster ride in LBD8!
99 reviews
July 17, 2015
I have the privilege of receiving an ARC for a spoiler free review.

I have such a fan girl crush on HM Ward! I absolutely love getting to know Peter before he was with Sydney. He reminded me quite a bit of Sean in this story, especially when he was protecting himself with his Ferro personality. We got to see a bit more of Gina come out of her personality as well.

This author has such an amazing ability to write stories with rich characters, compelling stories that make you want to keep coming back, and take you on quite the emotional roller coaster.

I drop everything I'm reading from her books come out! You will not be sorry. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Stacy Hahn.
809 reviews12 followers
July 16, 2015
In Life Before Damaged Vol. 7 you will be completely pulled in and will fall in love with Gina and Peter even more. We are teased with the sweet side of Pete and then like a switch, the bad boy careless Pete pops out. My heart breaks at the self-loathing Peter has for himself. My heart also breaks for Gina because we get to see her be carefree and reckless and how much she loves it. Then we see her reality crash in with what the evil Constance Ferro is making her do. How will she survive a marriage with no love or commitment? You can't change someone who doesn't want to be changed. But the question is... Does he really not want to change? I'm so ready for the next book!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews

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