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Love in the City #2
Damage
Everyone deserves a second chance. Even someone like me.
I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life.
I would travel the world, share what I knew, and write my stories. Everything I did was designed to bring me closer to that goal. So when a dream opportunity landed in my lap, I had to take it, no matter who I had to leave behind in the process.
Three years have passed since I made that decision, and I quickly learned reality doesn't always match up with vision. Home is exactly where I need to be, but when I see the man I pushed aside to follow my chosen path, the true cost of my decision hits me like a ton of bricks. I don't deserve it, but I'll do anything to get him back.
All I want is a second chance at the future we should have had, but first I have to fix what I left behind... damage.
I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life.
I would travel the world, share what I knew, and write my stories. Everything I did was designed to bring me closer to that goal. So when a dream opportunity landed in my lap, I had to take it, no matter who I had to leave behind in the process.
Three years have passed since I made that decision, and I quickly learned reality doesn't always match up with vision. Home is exactly where I need to be, but when I see the man I pushed aside to follow my chosen path, the true cost of my decision hits me like a ton of bricks. I don't deserve it, but I'll do anything to get him back.
All I want is a second chance at the future we should have had, but first I have to fix what I left behind... damage.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2019
101 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 22, 2019
Ohhhhhhh, how do I explain how much I love this story!!!
Welcome to the second book from an author who’s becoming one of my autobuys - Damage: A Love in the City Novel is another fantastic read from Mia Monroe and she had me hooked from the first line! The promise of a second chance romance (yes, I love these too!!!) between a chef and a teacher/aspiring author was too strong for me to resist.
I loved the introduction to Nolan Brooks and the town of Beacon at the end of Deviate: A Love in the City Novel. You don’t need to have read it to enjoy Damage but JPK does make an appearance and his lovely other half Quinn is mentioned. I’m guessing this is a series of standalones set in a singular universe - Mia, please correct me if I’m wrong! I’m loving the town and the residents we’ve met so far, so I’m anticipating a fabulous series of stories that prove the only thing that matters is love and that love always wins. It definitely wins when the universe conspires against you!
Nolan Brooks was crushed when Seppe Stilo pushed him aside and took off to teach in Italy for a year. It was a dream chance, he would have never asked him to turn it down - he would have followed Seppe anywhere because he loved him that much. Unbeknownst to Seppe, and Nolan, he felt exactly the same way but somewhere in his thinking and planning for his future he’d never seen meeting the man of his dreams before all that travelling had happened. He didn’t recognize what was right in front of his face in the relationship he had with Nolan -
They had chemistry, a happy domesticity and yet… When Seppe leaves for Italy, he lets it all crash and burn because he doesn’t want to take Nolan’s dreams of being a Michelin star chef of his own restaurant from him to have him follow along behind him. Worst. Mistake. EVER! Watching them come back from that to find each other? Absolutely beautiful!
Can I just say, I love the friendship between Trina and Nolan? Everyone needs a friend to help them pick up the pieces and move on with life when their hearts get broken - Trina does this for Nolan beautifully. Their banter constantly made me laugh and her advice was touching and on point for someone who knew what Nolan had been like in the aftermath of the breakup.
There were so many great moments in here for both of them with Trina - that she could be a friend to both men, see that this was the great love of her friend's life and know that Nolan needed to actually deal with the pain and heal from their separation in order to see what they could have together in future was beautiful. She was like their wise woman and their biggest fangirl!
Nolan and Seppe still have a smoldering spark between them and they learn through honest talks and trying to rebuild a friendship first that they were always meant to be. This is a fabulous second chance story for that reason. It's not ignored that Seppe caused him pain when he left - they deal with those ghosts several times throughout their tale and many authors seem to have their characters "get over it" way too quickly. It takes them time to build some trust back and there are moments that shake that trust between them but they work through them by communicating openly and honestly.
I'm so in love with this series, I think you need some of my…
Favourite Lines -
Pull up a seat and wait with me for more from this author - and one click this baby today!!!! You need these two in you life, you don't know it yet - BUT YOU DO!!!!
“Let’s go back in time to three years ago when I begged you to stay. Or how about when I begged you to let me come. You told me you didn’t want to be in my way. Well, Seppe, you’re in my way now. Go on with your life and leave me out of it. You’re good at that.”
Welcome to the second book from an author who’s becoming one of my autobuys - Damage: A Love in the City Novel is another fantastic read from Mia Monroe and she had me hooked from the first line! The promise of a second chance romance (yes, I love these too!!!) between a chef and a teacher/aspiring author was too strong for me to resist.
I loved the introduction to Nolan Brooks and the town of Beacon at the end of Deviate: A Love in the City Novel. You don’t need to have read it to enjoy Damage but JPK does make an appearance and his lovely other half Quinn is mentioned. I’m guessing this is a series of standalones set in a singular universe - Mia, please correct me if I’m wrong! I’m loving the town and the residents we’ve met so far, so I’m anticipating a fabulous series of stories that prove the only thing that matters is love and that love always wins. It definitely wins when the universe conspires against you!
Nolan Brooks was crushed when Seppe Stilo pushed him aside and took off to teach in Italy for a year. It was a dream chance, he would have never asked him to turn it down - he would have followed Seppe anywhere because he loved him that much. Unbeknownst to Seppe, and Nolan, he felt exactly the same way but somewhere in his thinking and planning for his future he’d never seen meeting the man of his dreams before all that travelling had happened. He didn’t recognize what was right in front of his face in the relationship he had with Nolan -
His hand grips the base of my neck, holding my mouth a prisoner to his, but I’d happily belong to him if he kissed me like this every day. This is more than a kiss. This is an experience. This is a beginning.
They had chemistry, a happy domesticity and yet… When Seppe leaves for Italy, he lets it all crash and burn because he doesn’t want to take Nolan’s dreams of being a Michelin star chef of his own restaurant from him to have him follow along behind him. Worst. Mistake. EVER! Watching them come back from that to find each other? Absolutely beautiful!
Can I just say, I love the friendship between Trina and Nolan? Everyone needs a friend to help them pick up the pieces and move on with life when their hearts get broken - Trina does this for Nolan beautifully. Their banter constantly made me laugh and her advice was touching and on point for someone who knew what Nolan had been like in the aftermath of the breakup.
“Unless you want to try talking to him.”
“I’ve had four shots. Ain’t no talking happening tonight.”
“Then you could angry fuck him.” She giggles. “Then kick him out in the morning. That would be so hot.”
I laugh. “For who?”
“You while it’s happening, and me when you tell me about it.”
There were so many great moments in here for both of them with Trina - that she could be a friend to both men, see that this was the great love of her friend's life and know that Nolan needed to actually deal with the pain and heal from their separation in order to see what they could have together in future was beautiful. She was like their wise woman and their biggest fangirl!
Nolan and Seppe still have a smoldering spark between them and they learn through honest talks and trying to rebuild a friendship first that they were always meant to be. This is a fabulous second chance story for that reason. It's not ignored that Seppe caused him pain when he left - they deal with those ghosts several times throughout their tale and many authors seem to have their characters "get over it" way too quickly. It takes them time to build some trust back and there are moments that shake that trust between them but they work through them by communicating openly and honestly.
I'm so in love with this series, I think you need some of my…
Favourite Lines -
”He was married. I was pissed when I found out. That’s not my style, you know.”
“Husband not cutting it at home?”
“Wife doesn’t have a dick.”
“Ooh.” I scrunch my face. “Hate that shit.”
“You and me both.”
His words may say we’re just friends, but his kiss says we’re so much more.
“Want to come over? Or I’ll come over there.”
“Come to me. Took my bra off. Not putting it back on.”
I laugh. “On my way.”
When the music starts and the first performer comes out, I try to ignore the growing desire to take him home with me tonight. We’re just friends. Who’s brilliant fucking idea was that? Oh, that’s right. It was my dumb ass.
“God, Brooks. Me too. So much. If you ever give me the chance I will blow your mind. I will love you so hard. You deserve nothing less than my entire heart. It’s yours.”
His bottom lip quivers, but he pulls me close and kisses me again. Soft, sweet, sensual kisses. “You’ve owned me since the day we met,” he whispers. “I love it, and I hate it.”
Pull up a seat and wait with me for more from this author - and one click this baby today!!!! You need these two in you life, you don't know it yet - BUT YOU DO!!!!
March 24, 2020
DNF @ 8%.
So, this is written in alternating 1st person POV in present tense. Yuck. Not to mention, Seppe, obviously of Italian heritage, not only speaks the same as Nolan, a good ol' southern boy from Georgia, but their entire narratives are completely indistinct from each other. In fact, at this point there have been 4 characters - Nolan, Seppe, Seppe's younger brother, and Nolan's BFF Trina. And they all sound like the exact same person. Unless you are very closely following who is talking when, it'd be impossible to tell who is the speaker.
Seppe is also a dick. He ghosted on Nolan 3 years ago. Hasn't contacted him once sense. And as his brother points out, he isn't just a self-absorbed douche when it came to Nolan, but to everyone. And while Seppe says a lot can change in 3 years, he acknowledges that he hasn't. I most definitely can't get behind Nolan getting back together with Seppe.
So, this is written in alternating 1st person POV in present tense. Yuck. Not to mention, Seppe, obviously of Italian heritage, not only speaks the same as Nolan, a good ol' southern boy from Georgia, but their entire narratives are completely indistinct from each other. In fact, at this point there have been 4 characters - Nolan, Seppe, Seppe's younger brother, and Nolan's BFF Trina. And they all sound like the exact same person. Unless you are very closely following who is talking when, it'd be impossible to tell who is the speaker.
Seppe is also a dick. He ghosted on Nolan 3 years ago. Hasn't contacted him once sense. And as his brother points out, he isn't just a self-absorbed douche when it came to Nolan, but to everyone. And while Seppe says a lot can change in 3 years, he acknowledges that he hasn't. I most definitely can't get behind Nolan getting back together with Seppe.
August 19, 2019
“He was my one. My perfect. My everything. But I was expendable.”
Damage is a slow burn, second chance story you won’t want to miss! I loved and devoured it in one sitting! It was emotional and my heart clenched a few times, but I couldn’t stop reading it. I needed to know what happens next!
I won’t spoil the plot, but just know that Seppe has to grovel a lot (which is a must for me when the H messes up) and definitely redeems himself. There isn’t much drama, it mostly centers on Brooks and Seppe working out their issues which I loved. The epilogue was really cute and the sex scenes were hot!
I’m so happy I discovered this new author because I’m loving everything she writes. Can’t wait to read Kane’s story!
Damage is a slow burn, second chance story you won’t want to miss! I loved and devoured it in one sitting! It was emotional and my heart clenched a few times, but I couldn’t stop reading it. I needed to know what happens next!
I won’t spoil the plot, but just know that Seppe has to grovel a lot (which is a must for me when the H messes up) and definitely redeems himself. There isn’t much drama, it mostly centers on Brooks and Seppe working out their issues which I loved. The epilogue was really cute and the sex scenes were hot!
I’m so happy I discovered this new author because I’m loving everything she writes. Can’t wait to read Kane’s story!
September 7, 2019
Wow!!! I loved this story so much , Nolan and Seppe *Sigh* my heart broke for them , two beautiful men separated by one following his dreams while the other was left broken hearted .
Mia wrote this book to perfection, I absolutely loved the angst and heartbreak this story portrayed, it was raw and real. To see first hand what happens when you let your love go , the ramifications, the hurt, anger that’s left behind.
The characters were brilliant, the side characters were equally just as lovable .
Cannot wait to see what Mia brings us next, she is a one click Author for me , her work speaks for itself ... AMAZING
Mia wrote this book to perfection, I absolutely loved the angst and heartbreak this story portrayed, it was raw and real. To see first hand what happens when you let your love go , the ramifications, the hurt, anger that’s left behind.
The characters were brilliant, the side characters were equally just as lovable .
Cannot wait to see what Mia brings us next, she is a one click Author for me , her work speaks for itself ... AMAZING
Want to read
August 10, 2019
Damage (Love in the City #2) (Arc) was graciously provided to me by the author for an honest review. I will voluntarily read this book and provide my honest opinion. Review to follow.
March 17, 2021
This one I was hoping for more.
March 17, 2021
Imagine bumping into the person abandoned you for years... yeah. It's like that. This is a second-chance romance.
I had a lot of feels while reading this one. I felt Brooks' pain, his anger felt so real and his resentment. But also, all that love he still had for Seppe when really don't want anything to do with it anymore. It was tempting to smack Seppe upside his head because the dude was acting like a self-centered brat. Thank goodness for Vitto.
The emotions are high when reading this one. It's like you're rooting for Seppe, you're half wondering how he's gonna be able to fix things, but also not blaming if he'd completely lost his chance with Brooks.
It's amazing how Mia wrote the healing process between the two MCs.
Oh, and these two are absolute fire together.
If second-chance romance with high heat, supportive friends and family is your jam, then add this one to your TBR.
I had a lot of feels while reading this one. I felt Brooks' pain, his anger felt so real and his resentment. But also, all that love he still had for Seppe when really don't want anything to do with it anymore. It was tempting to smack Seppe upside his head because the dude was acting like a self-centered brat. Thank goodness for Vitto.
The emotions are high when reading this one. It's like you're rooting for Seppe, you're half wondering how he's gonna be able to fix things, but also not blaming if he'd completely lost his chance with Brooks.
It's amazing how Mia wrote the healing process between the two MCs.
Oh, and these two are absolute fire together.
If second-chance romance with high heat, supportive friends and family is your jam, then add this one to your TBR.
February 13, 2021
Heartbreak to hope. Hope to happiness.
Awe! I loved this! The love was so gorgeous! The characters so convincing! I felt like I was there with them, walking around town, hanging at the clubs, standing in the kitchen. Haha. I'm pretty sure this is the last one on KU by Mia that's available that I haven't read so I'm devastated about that. But, in a few months, when i get a notification about her latest book release I will be all over that! Mia is one of my favorites at the moment.
Awe! I loved this! The love was so gorgeous! The characters so convincing! I felt like I was there with them, walking around town, hanging at the clubs, standing in the kitchen. Haha. I'm pretty sure this is the last one on KU by Mia that's available that I haven't read so I'm devastated about that. But, in a few months, when i get a notification about her latest book release I will be all over that! Mia is one of my favorites at the moment.
September 30, 2023
Brooks & Seppe
3.5 for this one. I loved the second chance and the open, honest way Brooks stood up for himself. He didn’t just take Seppe back, we got to see how much of him was broken and the fight to clean out the old feelings and begin to trust again. The tough love from Vitto to Seppe was good too, we didn’t have to just assume he was all of a sudden sorry and Brooks should forgive him instantly. He had to work at it, Brooks needed to heal. What they had was real, and they could have it again if they treated their love with care.
3.5 for this one. I loved the second chance and the open, honest way Brooks stood up for himself. He didn’t just take Seppe back, we got to see how much of him was broken and the fight to clean out the old feelings and begin to trust again. The tough love from Vitto to Seppe was good too, we didn’t have to just assume he was all of a sudden sorry and Brooks should forgive him instantly. He had to work at it, Brooks needed to heal. What they had was real, and they could have it again if they treated their love with care.
August 12, 2021
Wow! I read a lot of second chance book but this one hit different.
I was mushy the hole time and really got into the process of the relationship. There were so many moments of awe that made me tear up.
I love that Seppe’s brother woke him up with brutal honesty. Seriously I love each character in this book so much. I love Triana how much Nolan and she are there for each other.
Seriously good I recommend 100%.
I was mushy the hole time and really got into the process of the relationship. There were so many moments of awe that made me tear up.
I love that Seppe’s brother woke him up with brutal honesty. Seriously I love each character in this book so much. I love Triana how much Nolan and she are there for each other.
Seriously good I recommend 100%.
September 4, 2020
3.5...maybe 3.75
So this was probably a personal favorite of this author's books. I'm a sucker for second chance romances and clashing and pining and reluctant reunions and this had all of that so yeah, I was totally there for it. Plus Seppe's whole personal thing going on really helped make it a character story as well a romance so bravo.
So this was probably a personal favorite of this author's books. I'm a sucker for second chance romances and clashing and pining and reluctant reunions and this had all of that so yeah, I was totally there for it. Plus Seppe's whole personal thing going on really helped make it a character story as well a romance so bravo.
February 13, 2021
Refreshing
I typically don’t love second chance romances because I find them to be unrealistic. But I felt that both Brooks and Seppe were honest portrayals of what could really happen. It didn’t feel forced or rushed. Great overall
I typically don’t love second chance romances because I find them to be unrealistic. But I felt that both Brooks and Seppe were honest portrayals of what could really happen. It didn’t feel forced or rushed. Great overall
February 28, 2021
So in love
I have so many emotions of this book. Such a great love story. I loved the raw honest conversations and how they didn't just jump into a FWB relationship or rush things. It was refreshing to see their growth with themselves and each other. I loved it so much.
I have so many emotions of this book. Such a great love story. I loved the raw honest conversations and how they didn't just jump into a FWB relationship or rush things. It was refreshing to see their growth with themselves and each other. I loved it so much.
July 21, 2021
Loved it!
Seppe and Brooks were beyond phenomenal characters. Their love was tested and their paths to love were rocky. The author has done such a great job with the character development. This story has so much love and romance and of course the best HEA. Another must read!
Seppe and Brooks were beyond phenomenal characters. Their love was tested and their paths to love were rocky. The author has done such a great job with the character development. This story has so much love and romance and of course the best HEA. Another must read!
August 17, 2021
💕 Read for the URR 2021 Bingo challenge at URR™ 💕
•• 11. Second Chance ••
June 19, 2022
Loved!
Seppe and Brooks belong together. This was the perfect story. I loved that they talked to their friends about their feelings and that they also talked to each other (eventually) about their feelings. It was quite the ride but oh so worth it!
Seppe and Brooks belong together. This was the perfect story. I loved that they talked to their friends about their feelings and that they also talked to each other (eventually) about their feelings. It was quite the ride but oh so worth it!
May 31, 2023
FANTASTIC
Ok besides being hot! I absolutely love the detailed ending. I hate books with abrupt endings. This was wonderful! A must read!
As a sidenote, I do not do book funnel so missed out on Kanes story. I would love to see him have his own book!
Ok besides being hot! I absolutely love the detailed ending. I hate books with abrupt endings. This was wonderful! A must read!
As a sidenote, I do not do book funnel so missed out on Kanes story. I would love to see him have his own book!
August 13, 2023
I enjoyed the story and cast but feel that the proofreaders/beta readers needed another comb-through.
There are a lot of typos, especially in the back half of the story that detract from the flow.
Tropes:
Second chance, hurt-comfort, small-town, feel-good, friends to lovers, gay
There are a lot of typos, especially in the back half of the story that detract from the flow.
Tropes:
Second chance, hurt-comfort, small-town, feel-good, friends to lovers, gay
January 26, 2020
4.75 stars
June 10, 2022
4.25 🌟's. Wow! Just a bundle of feels hitting right and left. This author, the more I read the more I 💚 her work!
January 11, 2020
Mistakes. Regrets. Reconcilliation
When you're given a second chance at love...will you take it or will you walk away again?
This is an amazing book...filled with so much passion, love and lust that all you can do is hold on for the ride!
Never doesn't always mean never...and sometimes love does win.
If two deserve happiness, it is these men.
I loved this book and couldn't be happier with the ending! Except wanting the love story to continue...
September 23, 2019
4 stars!
I read both books in this series within 24 hours, and I enjoyed them equally, giving both four stars.
The main thing that attracted me this series was that book one and two featured tropes that I really enjoy. Friends to lovers and second chance.
I liked both main characters; maybe even Seppe a little bit more, because he really grew as time went on. He realised that he messed up, and he gave everything he had to try and make up for his mistakes.
There was a couple of slight hangs up for me though; not enough for me to not enjoy the story, but enough for it not to be a five star read.
I mentioned earlier that I really enjoy a second chance love, and I do. However, these books include a separation period, and sometimes I struggle to read about them. It’s just a personal hang up of mine, and I’m sure it doesn’t bother a lot of readers. But I do struggle when one of the MC’s remains celibate, and the other sleeps around a lot. I’m aware that everyone handles things differently, and that was just Nolan’s way of coping; hell, some would say that it serves Seppe right after the way he up and left Nolan. I don’t know, it’s just something I don’t thrive on reading about.
Another thing was the same as the first book, I wish things were maybe a little more detailed and descriptive. I’m not saying that I need pages and pages of inner monologue, but with both books there was a lot of conversation without any real description of what the person was feeling. It made it a little more difficult to connect to the characters for me.
An example that stood out to me was when Seppe admitted that he hadn’t been with anybody else in their three year separation and Nolan barely even reacted to that. There was no real surprise, or genuine shock. It was just kind of like ‘oh okay’. I mean, if I was Nolan then I would have been really happy!
There was times when I just wanted a little more...
I still enjoyed this though, and I could believe the love they had for each other; especially the hurt from Nolan. Another thing I really liked about both books was the pace. There was no rushing here. Seppe wanted to make things right and there was no easy route; it took time and patience.
Hot and cute, with a lovely HEA 😊
I read both books in this series within 24 hours, and I enjoyed them equally, giving both four stars.
The main thing that attracted me this series was that book one and two featured tropes that I really enjoy. Friends to lovers and second chance.
I liked both main characters; maybe even Seppe a little bit more, because he really grew as time went on. He realised that he messed up, and he gave everything he had to try and make up for his mistakes.
There was a couple of slight hangs up for me though; not enough for me to not enjoy the story, but enough for it not to be a five star read.
I mentioned earlier that I really enjoy a second chance love, and I do. However, these books include a separation period, and sometimes I struggle to read about them. It’s just a personal hang up of mine, and I’m sure it doesn’t bother a lot of readers. But I do struggle when one of the MC’s remains celibate, and the other sleeps around a lot. I’m aware that everyone handles things differently, and that was just Nolan’s way of coping; hell, some would say that it serves Seppe right after the way he up and left Nolan. I don’t know, it’s just something I don’t thrive on reading about.
Another thing was the same as the first book, I wish things were maybe a little more detailed and descriptive. I’m not saying that I need pages and pages of inner monologue, but with both books there was a lot of conversation without any real description of what the person was feeling. It made it a little more difficult to connect to the characters for me.
An example that stood out to me was when Seppe admitted that he hadn’t been with anybody else in their three year separation and Nolan barely even reacted to that. There was no real surprise, or genuine shock. It was just kind of like ‘oh okay’. I mean, if I was Nolan then I would have been really happy!
There was times when I just wanted a little more...
I still enjoyed this though, and I could believe the love they had for each other; especially the hurt from Nolan. Another thing I really liked about both books was the pace. There was no rushing here. Seppe wanted to make things right and there was no easy route; it took time and patience.
Hot and cute, with a lovely HEA 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2019
Wow, Mia Monroe's Damage is a riveting second chance romance.
Three years after breaking Nolan's heart, Seppe is back in town. What follows is a mesmerizing slow burn second chance for these two men.
It's a story of regret and hindsight, about knowing you made the wrong choices and trying to right them. A story of not understanding the depth of your love until you've lost it. It wonderfully explores that sometimes it isn't the right time to be a couple. Sometimes one needs to explore their dreams to realize what their dreams truly are.
Their story is about priorities and figuring out what one really wants in life. It's a story about choosing love that involves a whole lot of pain and hurt. Seppe longs to repair the heart he'd previously broken, broken so badly that Nolan can't move forward.
It's perfect that they slowly get to know each other again. After such a tragic ending last time, there's no way Nolan is willing to give Seppe another chance without a lot of work. The author does a great job of taking the characters and readers through the wringer throughout this extraordinary story of making amends and choosing love. Their journey is a hard-fought one that's completely worth the reader's time.
My first read from this author, I am hoping to go back and read her debut book. I love her writing, characters, and storyline. The depth of these men and their relationship is well developed and explored. It's absolutely fantastic.
At it's heart, Damage is an amazingly sweet and tender story of forgiveness. Mia Monroe excels in writing this beautiful romance. I can't recommend this book enough when you're in the mood for heartbreak.
Three years after breaking Nolan's heart, Seppe is back in town. What follows is a mesmerizing slow burn second chance for these two men.
It's a story of regret and hindsight, about knowing you made the wrong choices and trying to right them. A story of not understanding the depth of your love until you've lost it. It wonderfully explores that sometimes it isn't the right time to be a couple. Sometimes one needs to explore their dreams to realize what their dreams truly are.
Their story is about priorities and figuring out what one really wants in life. It's a story about choosing love that involves a whole lot of pain and hurt. Seppe longs to repair the heart he'd previously broken, broken so badly that Nolan can't move forward.
It's perfect that they slowly get to know each other again. After such a tragic ending last time, there's no way Nolan is willing to give Seppe another chance without a lot of work. The author does a great job of taking the characters and readers through the wringer throughout this extraordinary story of making amends and choosing love. Their journey is a hard-fought one that's completely worth the reader's time.
My first read from this author, I am hoping to go back and read her debut book. I love her writing, characters, and storyline. The depth of these men and their relationship is well developed and explored. It's absolutely fantastic.
At it's heart, Damage is an amazingly sweet and tender story of forgiveness. Mia Monroe excels in writing this beautiful romance. I can't recommend this book enough when you're in the mood for heartbreak.
September 12, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Damage is the second book in the Love in the City series, but although we met Brooks briefly at the end of the first book, Deviate, this book can be read as a standalone. We catch up with Seppe and Brooks three years after their relationship ended and Seppe is just returning to town after being out of the country. Brooks knew he had found everything he wanted in Seppe and has never fully recovered from Seppe completely ending things and disappearing from his life. Brooks is successful in his career as a chef, but he has no interest in trying to have another relationship, tries to drown his sorrows in hookups, and his heart is barely pieced back together.
This part of their journey is a slow burn and keeps the second chance aspect in the forefront, so if those tropes appeal to you, this book has them. The chemistry between the men is super strong and Monroe can write chemistry and longing and jealousy really well. However, in the beginning, I couldn’t fully buy into Seppe’s remorse. He just left Brooks and it felt more to me that he was remorseful because things didn’t work out for him as planned. As Seppe starts to examine his behavior, a little of that eased off, but Seppe didn’t fully win me over. Brooks is a good guy and he was completely shattered by Seppe leaving, and while it takes a while for these guys to reconcile, Brooks not making it easy for Seppe was kept at a realistic pace.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Damage is the second book in the Love in the City series, but although we met Brooks briefly at the end of the first book, Deviate, this book can be read as a standalone. We catch up with Seppe and Brooks three years after their relationship ended and Seppe is just returning to town after being out of the country. Brooks knew he had found everything he wanted in Seppe and has never fully recovered from Seppe completely ending things and disappearing from his life. Brooks is successful in his career as a chef, but he has no interest in trying to have another relationship, tries to drown his sorrows in hookups, and his heart is barely pieced back together.
This part of their journey is a slow burn and keeps the second chance aspect in the forefront, so if those tropes appeal to you, this book has them. The chemistry between the men is super strong and Monroe can write chemistry and longing and jealousy really well. However, in the beginning, I couldn’t fully buy into Seppe’s remorse. He just left Brooks and it felt more to me that he was remorseful because things didn’t work out for him as planned. As Seppe starts to examine his behavior, a little of that eased off, but Seppe didn’t fully win me over. Brooks is a good guy and he was completely shattered by Seppe leaving, and while it takes a while for these guys to reconcile, Brooks not making it easy for Seppe was kept at a realistic pace.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 17, 2019
This is a delightful second chance romance with great characters and a wonderful storyline. It is well written, sweet, emotional, sexy and full of hope. When Seppe left town three years earlier he didn't realize how big of a mistake he had made. Being without Nolan made him miserable and the job in Italy was nothing like he expected. When he returns he is shocked to find out how much he hurt Nolan as well as his family and friends. His brother is a huge help and makes him really think about how his actions affected everyone he left behind. Seppe is genuinely sorry and determined to change so that he will once again be able to have Nolan in his life even if they can only be friends. Nolan is conflicted and scared of having his heart broken again but seeing Seppe after all this time just brings back all of his old feelings for him as well as a lot of anger. They have many issues to work out if they want to have a relationship again and Seppe wants to prove to everyone that he is capable of being a better person. I love the secondary characters, the ending is perfect and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
August 22, 2019
Oh man did this one have me hooked! I loved Mia Monroe’s first release Deviate but I have to say I might love Damage a bit more! Or maybe it was just what I needed in that time of my life. You know the feeling when no book is holding your attention or you just can’t get into a book. Well Damage pulled me out of that slump!
Damage is a fast paced slow burn (is that a thing? I just made it a thing). Seppe in doing what he thought was right, moved away to follow his dream and in the process left a shattered Nolan. As time passes Seppe realizes his mistakes and with a move back home he is hoping he can wrong his rights. Nolan on the other hand is not going to make it that an easy task.
The sexual tension between Nolan and Seppe bleeds off every page making it too irresistible to put down. The conflict, the characters, even the chaos that ensues is written to perfection.
Whether you are new to MM or a veteran Damage is a love story you don’t want to pass up!
Damage is a fast paced slow burn (is that a thing? I just made it a thing). Seppe in doing what he thought was right, moved away to follow his dream and in the process left a shattered Nolan. As time passes Seppe realizes his mistakes and with a move back home he is hoping he can wrong his rights. Nolan on the other hand is not going to make it that an easy task.
The sexual tension between Nolan and Seppe bleeds off every page making it too irresistible to put down. The conflict, the characters, even the chaos that ensues is written to perfection.
Whether you are new to MM or a veteran Damage is a love story you don’t want to pass up!
August 18, 2019
The reason I like reading second chances books is that it always hits me that,even fictional, some people are better at forgiveness than I would be if I were in their place. I mean,how much is too much,what makes something impossible to forgive?
Take Nolan. He's had his heart broken,with the scar to prove it...and yet,he forgives... Despite Seppe's egotistical reasons to leave,despite the devastation he left behind, Nolan forgives. What makes Seppe redeemable, how can he prove that he's worthy of a second chance?
Well,I really recommend reading Damage to find out. You'll go through an emotional wringer, because Mia Monroe is really amazing at writing emotions,but you will also be left with a warm feeling of love and happiness.
All the characters, the community are worth knowing, so give this book a chance. Definitely worth reading.
Take Nolan. He's had his heart broken,with the scar to prove it...and yet,he forgives... Despite Seppe's egotistical reasons to leave,despite the devastation he left behind, Nolan forgives. What makes Seppe redeemable, how can he prove that he's worthy of a second chance?
Well,I really recommend reading Damage to find out. You'll go through an emotional wringer, because Mia Monroe is really amazing at writing emotions,but you will also be left with a warm feeling of love and happiness.
All the characters, the community are worth knowing, so give this book a chance. Definitely worth reading.
August 13, 2019
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. Seppe moving back was going to be a fresh restart on all that he had missed in the three years he had been gone. Only running into Nolan on the very first day back wasn't what or how he excepted the encounter to go. Nolan wasn't going to fall for a few pretty words, not after having his heart ripped out by Seppe choosing to leave for "bigger..better things" he wasn't enough before so why put himself through it all over again? Can Seppe prove his has changed, can Nolan trust again that the past won't happen again? If your looking for a second chance romance this is wonderful story. Filled with steam both emotional and passionate. A great read.
August 13, 2019
He thought he lost everything. Then found out what he really let go was so much more valuable.
Nolan, the character formerly known as Brooks, and Giuseppe (known as Seppe) had a perfect relationship. Then Seppe suddenly up and left for Italy and was gone for three years without any contact with his lover, friends, or family. He returns home to discover all the emotional damage he created.
Nolan is a loveable character from page 1. Seppe starts the story as a rather unsavory until he has his eyes opened to the devastation he created by his departure.
A very nice story of atonement and an immature boy finally becoming an adult.
I read an ARC of Damage, and am providing an honest opinion.
Nolan, the character formerly known as Brooks, and Giuseppe (known as Seppe) had a perfect relationship. Then Seppe suddenly up and left for Italy and was gone for three years without any contact with his lover, friends, or family. He returns home to discover all the emotional damage he created.
Nolan is a loveable character from page 1. Seppe starts the story as a rather unsavory until he has his eyes opened to the devastation he created by his departure.
A very nice story of atonement and an immature boy finally becoming an adult.
I read an ARC of Damage, and am providing an honest opinion.
August 12, 2019
Damage is the second book in Mia Monroe’s Love in the City series.
Mia Monroe has a talent for pulling emotions all the way to the breaking point, then playing with them so we are craving the interaction of her characters!
The absolutely crushing feeling of not being chosen, not thinking you were good enough, or never being ready for a new relationship because your hurt is so deep, that is the emotional recipe for Nolan’s heartache.
To watch him come back from the edge, when his true love realizes his own heart has been frozen, is the joy of this story. Love is love, and a HEA ending helps our hearts, as we struggle desperately watching these two men find their love again.
Mia Monroe has a talent for pulling emotions all the way to the breaking point, then playing with them so we are craving the interaction of her characters!
The absolutely crushing feeling of not being chosen, not thinking you were good enough, or never being ready for a new relationship because your hurt is so deep, that is the emotional recipe for Nolan’s heartache.
To watch him come back from the edge, when his true love realizes his own heart has been frozen, is the joy of this story. Love is love, and a HEA ending helps our hearts, as we struggle desperately watching these two men find their love again.
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