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Collateral Damage #1
Collateral
Gabriela
Stefan Sabbioni showed up in my bedroom on my sixteenth birthday. Uninvited, he stood in the shadows smelling of whiskey and death and wrapped a broken, blood-crusted necklace around my neck.
I thought he’d strangle me with it.
That night, he left a message for my father. He said he’d be back to take something precious.
I never delivered that message, though. I wonder if things would be different if I had because now, two years later, he’s back. And he’s not hiding in any shadows.
He’s come to make good on his promise.
He’s back to take that something precious.
Me.
Stefan
Marchese is the manipulator of my family’s tragedy. I won’t just bring him to his knees. I’ll bury him for what he did.
Taking his daughter is only the beginning. I’ll do it knowing I’m starting a war. I’ll do it knowing my enemies will become his allies. They’ll stop at nothing to destroy me and he’ll stop at nothing to get her back.
I’ve never shied away from war, though. I’m not one to play nice and I don’t share my toys. I’ll demolish you if you touch what’s mine.
And she is most definitely mine.
Running Time => 6hrs. and 22mins.
©2019 Natasha Knight (P)2019 Natasha Knight
Stefan Sabbioni showed up in my bedroom on my sixteenth birthday. Uninvited, he stood in the shadows smelling of whiskey and death and wrapped a broken, blood-crusted necklace around my neck.
I thought he’d strangle me with it.
That night, he left a message for my father. He said he’d be back to take something precious.
I never delivered that message, though. I wonder if things would be different if I had because now, two years later, he’s back. And he’s not hiding in any shadows.
He’s come to make good on his promise.
He’s back to take that something precious.
Me.
Stefan
Marchese is the manipulator of my family’s tragedy. I won’t just bring him to his knees. I’ll bury him for what he did.
Taking his daughter is only the beginning. I’ll do it knowing I’m starting a war. I’ll do it knowing my enemies will become his allies. They’ll stop at nothing to destroy me and he’ll stop at nothing to get her back.
I’ve never shied away from war, though. I’m not one to play nice and I don’t share my toys. I’ll demolish you if you touch what’s mine.
And she is most definitely mine.
Running Time => 6hrs. and 22mins.
©2019 Natasha Knight (P)2019 Natasha Knight
Audible Audio
First published September 10, 2019
975 people are currently reading
5258 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Knight
105 books5,272 followersNatasha Knight is the USA Today Bestselling author of Romantic Suspense and Dark Romance Novels. She has sold over a million books and is translated into six languages. She currently lives in The Netherlands with her husband and two daughters and when she’s not writing, she’s walking in the woods listening to a book, sitting in a corner reading or off exploring the world as often as she can get away.
Write Natasha here:
natasha@natasha-knight.com
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Write Natasha here:
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Check out her books here:
https://natasha-knight.com
Sign up for her newsletter here:
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Connect with her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 576 reviews
September 22, 2019
4.5 STARS
The second I read the blurb to this book, I knew I had to get my grabby little hands on it as quickly as possible. I'm a sucker for a good arranged marriage trope, and when you add in a dark and gritty mafia romance, I'm practically frothing at the mouth in my need.
I'm ridiculously picky with my dark romance reads as of late. There's just too many books out there calling themselves dark, when they're anything but. There's just something about a well written dark romance that has a feeling to it, an electric current that transfers to the reader. And this book? Oh this book had it in spades. It practically vibrated with a dark electricity that made my fingers tingle with every turn of the page.
What I loved most about it was the utterly slow burn of the developing romance. Gabriela and Stefan are not exactly a love match. They're a marriage of convenience, a convenience suitable only to Stefan. With years of bad blood between their families, there's enough dark and hidden secrets that ensure everything ends in bloodshed. Gabriela has always been one thing in her life; a pawn. She was a pawn that her mafioso father used as needed and no one cared of her feelings about it. She's been hidden away, but she's not sheltered. She may only be 18 years old, but she's no where near naive. She know who and what her father is and she's made peace with her life. When she finds out that her father agreed to give her to Stefan in an agreement she doesn't quite understand the intricacies of, she's non too pleased. She may do as she's told, but she won't take her fate lying down.
I loved the dueling parts of vulnerability and strength that Gabriela has. It made for an incredibly enchanting and endearing character. This is a woman that has been through so much in her short life, and it certainly sharpened her edges and her tongue. I loved her fierceness. She fights for supremacy with Stefan, even while knowing that's it's a failing battle against his dark intensity.
While the romance is a pulse through the story, it doesn't quite flesh out in this book, and I really loved that about it. It made it that much more believable. There's just enough to make the reader feel the brewing chemistry between them and give enough of a taste to leave you begging for more.
I'm seriously itching to get my hands on the next book to see how it all comes to a head. BRING IT ON!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
You’re in my world now. And in my world, I make the rules and you obey them. I. Own. You.”
The second I read the blurb to this book, I knew I had to get my grabby little hands on it as quickly as possible. I'm a sucker for a good arranged marriage trope, and when you add in a dark and gritty mafia romance, I'm practically frothing at the mouth in my need.
I'm ridiculously picky with my dark romance reads as of late. There's just too many books out there calling themselves dark, when they're anything but. There's just something about a well written dark romance that has a feeling to it, an electric current that transfers to the reader. And this book? Oh this book had it in spades. It practically vibrated with a dark electricity that made my fingers tingle with every turn of the page.
What I loved most about it was the utterly slow burn of the developing romance. Gabriela and Stefan are not exactly a love match. They're a marriage of convenience, a convenience suitable only to Stefan. With years of bad blood between their families, there's enough dark and hidden secrets that ensure everything ends in bloodshed. Gabriela has always been one thing in her life; a pawn. She was a pawn that her mafioso father used as needed and no one cared of her feelings about it. She's been hidden away, but she's not sheltered. She may only be 18 years old, but she's no where near naive. She know who and what her father is and she's made peace with her life. When she finds out that her father agreed to give her to Stefan in an agreement she doesn't quite understand the intricacies of, she's non too pleased. She may do as she's told, but she won't take her fate lying down.
I loved the dueling parts of vulnerability and strength that Gabriela has. It made for an incredibly enchanting and endearing character. This is a woman that has been through so much in her short life, and it certainly sharpened her edges and her tongue. I loved her fierceness. She fights for supremacy with Stefan, even while knowing that's it's a failing battle against his dark intensity.
While the romance is a pulse through the story, it doesn't quite flesh out in this book, and I really loved that about it. It made it that much more believable. There's just enough to make the reader feel the brewing chemistry between them and give enough of a taste to leave you begging for more.
I'm seriously itching to get my hands on the next book to see how it all comes to a head. BRING IT ON!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
September 24, 2019
This is the first book in a duet where Gabriella daughter of Gabriel Marchese is blackmailed into Handing over his only daughter to Sicilian Mobster Stefan Sabbioni for marriage.
At the tender age of eighteen, Gabby is a strange mix of innocent and naive but also somewhat worldly to the ways of monsters a side-effect of her unconventional upbringing and life-experiences and her fathers less the loving attentions.
Stefan, much older at twenty-nine and with a personal agenda of vengeance that places Gabriella in the crosshairs between himself and her father.
An innocent pawn caught in a war, not of her making where she could so very easily become collateral damage herself.
The dynamic between Gabriella and Stefan in this first instalment was very much one of control on his behalf and petulant half-grown woman on hers.
The initial chemistry here more of a custodian exerting his will and power over a much younger and sometimes childish Gabby who often thinks and acts before she has engaged her brain.
As I said shes on that awkward cusp of adulthood where she seems to be straddling a line with a foot on either side of the divide.
Character wise I actually really liked Stefan a lot and despite his flaws (of which he had many) he was still essentially very kind towards Gabby, much more so than he actually needed to be to accomplish his own goals and I felt that he had a lot of patience with her especially considering her acting out which she did seem to do a lot of the time.
As he informed her on numerous occasions she didn't have to be his enemy.
I actually gave Gabby herself somewhat of a pass with her bratty behaviour just because of her young age and also Because I did feel that her upbringing had somewhat shaped her moulding her distrust and suspicious nature until it became her go-to defence mechanism a shield of sorts.
I also don't think she gave Stefan much of a chance: measuring his worth by the standards she had come to expect from her father which was hardly fair.
Combine this in with her illogical choices well let's just say I am hoping that come the next book Gabby opens her eyes slightly and quits burying her head.
She definitely has some much needed personal growth and inner reflection to do in her near future.
This was very much slow-burning in terms of the romance itself.
where the tension is subtly adjusted ramping up the tension and heat along the way this worked so well especially considering Gabriella's age and sometimes immaturities.
Told from dual POV my favourite this gripped me almost instantly.
It was well written and I sped through this in one sitting.
My only gripe here was Gabbys herself as I said earlier her behaviour could be slightly irritating at times.
This was a great read and I am looking forward to concluding this story in book two which is out in October so not a long wait at all thankfully.
This gets a thumbs up from my camp folks.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Collateral.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
August 7, 2020
4.75 'out-of-the-frying-pan-and-into-the-fire' stars 🌟
"See, you’re in my world now. And in my world, I make the rules and you obey them. I. Own. You.”
I didn't expect to love this as much as I did!!
This was my first book by Natasha Knight and what a book it was!
Fast-paced, action-packed and slow-burn dark mafia romance with an arranged-marriage trope? I am in love. 🖤
"See, you’re in my world now. And in my world, I make the rules and you obey them. I. Own. You.”
I didn't expect to love this as much as I did!!
This was my first book by Natasha Knight and what a book it was!
Fast-paced, action-packed and slow-burn dark mafia romance with an arranged-marriage trope? I am in love. 🖤
I think for the first time in my life, I am not only a predator but a protector.I could not put it down and that ending? I need to start the next book now .
Her protector.
September 11, 2019
AHHHH!! OMG!!! YOU GUYS!! COLLATERAL WAS AMAZING!!!! I am such a Natasha Knight addict and will read ANYTHING she writes. Collateral was pure mafia kindle crack. I was consumed with every word and did not come up for air once. Stefan Sabbioni and Gabriela Marchese were the perfect match for one another. They were sexy, provocative and their connection was so intense. I loved every minute of this story!!
Anyone who knows me knows that mafia stories are my version of heaven, but a mafia arranged marriage story? ABSOLUTE PERFECTION! I absolutely died for this couple. They were two damaged people with hidden secrets and tragedies in their past. But with Stefan set on an unwavering quest for vengeance against the Marchese family, Gabriela is now a pawn caught in his crosshairs.
AHHH!! I FLOVED this story! It was so compelling that I found myself completely engrossed in the pages not even coming up for air. The storytelling was superb and testament to Knight's immeasurable talent. Stefan and Gabriela's love story was dark, volatile and dangerous and yet equally passionate and emotional. Separately, they were both wounded and damaged, but together there was a palpable energy around them that came right off the pages. Gabriela was so sassy and headstrong and coupled with Stefan's delicious alpha protector personality, they were pure FIRE!! I am so hooked and can not wait for Damage and the shocking, adrenaline filled ride I know this author will take me on. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Anyone who knows me knows that mafia stories are my version of heaven, but a mafia arranged marriage story? ABSOLUTE PERFECTION! I absolutely died for this couple. They were two damaged people with hidden secrets and tragedies in their past. But with Stefan set on an unwavering quest for vengeance against the Marchese family, Gabriela is now a pawn caught in his crosshairs.
AHHH!! I FLOVED this story! It was so compelling that I found myself completely engrossed in the pages not even coming up for air. The storytelling was superb and testament to Knight's immeasurable talent. Stefan and Gabriela's love story was dark, volatile and dangerous and yet equally passionate and emotional. Separately, they were both wounded and damaged, but together there was a palpable energy around them that came right off the pages. Gabriela was so sassy and headstrong and coupled with Stefan's delicious alpha protector personality, they were pure FIRE!! I am so hooked and can not wait for Damage and the shocking, adrenaline filled ride I know this author will take me on. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
September 21, 2019
An arranged forbidden Mafia romance? Yes please!! Natasha Knight knows how to bring the alluring sexy danger to her readers and this one did not disappoint.
Gabriella is a pawn in a game that will ultimately become deadly sooner or later. Forced to marry a man who’s reputation precedes him, Gabriella is not looking forward to this union and possibly becoming an enemy to the notorious Stephen Sabbioni. But when revenge is on the line and the rules are thrown out the window, it’s everyone for themselves.
Stephen has worked his way up the family business for the past two years after a tragedy changed the course of his family dynamic. Now a ruthless leader with nothing but a slow torturing revenge on his mind, Stephen begins to put his plan into motion and the first step, is to take something valuable from an enemy. Too bad the most precious thing is none other than a feisty eighteen year old who won’t go down without a fight.
I love the start of this series and from the minute you start to read the prologue, youre immediately sucked into the story and there’s no turning back. Stephen was not a man to be played with and he had this way about him that made you feel fearful and protected at the dame time. With his lifestyle, there were enemies around every corner and let me tell you, he was the BOSS for a reason!!
Seeing that this is a duet, there is a cliffhanger so please be aware of that and try to prepare yourself for it. Oh, who am I kidding, you cant!! If you’re a Mafia fan romance lover, then I strongly recommend you read this one.
August 22, 2023
Oh wow! Now I understand what is the buzz abouy this book. Collateral is sexy. The chemistry between Gabriella and Stefan is just.... hot. Burning. Sexy. Intense.
Miss Knight is talented. She can brings a story of mafi susornse and blends it nicely with the sizzling hot romance. And Stefan.... delicious! He is such enigma. Mystery. Cold. Distance. And lets not forget sexy.
Gabriella plays her role as damsel in distress so perfectly. The ploy and twist in this book is keeping me on my edge.
Wonderful story.
4 stars
Miss Knight is talented. She can brings a story of mafi susornse and blends it nicely with the sizzling hot romance. And Stefan.... delicious! He is such enigma. Mystery. Cold. Distance. And lets not forget sexy.
Gabriella plays her role as damsel in distress so perfectly. The ploy and twist in this book is keeping me on my edge.
Wonderful story.
4 stars
September 28, 2019
Review to come!
November 19, 2020
Audio 5 Stars
Story 2.5 Stars
It was okay, but I don't care enough about the story or characters to move on to the next book. 🤷🏽♀️
Story 2.5 Stars
It was okay, but I don't care enough about the story or characters to move on to the next book. 🤷🏽♀️
September 23, 2019
"Mafia arranged marriage" trope...
hell yaaasssss....
One of your favorite authors wrote it...
say no more...
Actually, I won't even go deep into the subject, you all know what's about to go down...or at least you have just a slightest idea, right?!
well, for starters, if you like this trope, this is a 1-CLICK book...
BUT what I loved about it is a phenomenal writing above all, fantastic, thrilling fast, anticipating and angsty tempo of the storytelling that I simply couldn't put the book down...
and I actually read it twice in the process *wink*
it ends in a slight unresolved cliffhanger but book two is just around the corner, so watch out!
***ARC kindely provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
hell yaaasssss....
One of your favorite authors wrote it...
say no more...
Actually, I won't even go deep into the subject, you all know what's about to go down...or at least you have just a slightest idea, right?!
well, for starters, if you like this trope, this is a 1-CLICK book...
BUT what I loved about it is a phenomenal writing above all, fantastic, thrilling fast, anticipating and angsty tempo of the storytelling that I simply couldn't put the book down...
and I actually read it twice in the process *wink*
it ends in a slight unresolved cliffhanger but book two is just around the corner, so watch out!
***ARC kindely provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
October 17, 2019
Audiobook review. Natasha Knight has a talent for making difficult, flawed, and ruthless men appealing. Here we have a vengeful man using an innocent girl and I still found myself rooting for him. I enjoyed hearing Stefan’s development and the protective side of him that Gabriella brought out. This book isn’t overly sensual but rather it builds up the tension between the main characters.
The plot kept me engaged and used suspense in strategic places. The writing/diction and editing was solid. Secondary characters were used effectively to move the story forward or to add another layer to the crisis.
The narrators, Wen Ross and Mackenzie Cartwright, performed flawlessly with great tone, pitch, and pace. They put feeling into the words, accented by infections and it enhanced the experience.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
The plot kept me engaged and used suspense in strategic places. The writing/diction and editing was solid. Secondary characters were used effectively to move the story forward or to add another layer to the crisis.
The narrators, Wen Ross and Mackenzie Cartwright, performed flawlessly with great tone, pitch, and pace. They put feeling into the words, accented by infections and it enhanced the experience.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
September 25, 2019
Natasha has done it again! I am completely obsessed with all her books at the moment, she has this ability to draw you into to her story and before you know it hours have passed. I literally read this in one sitting, I could not put it down.
Although Gabriela is victim in this story she does a good job of holding her own. She has a strong determination and a burning fire in her spirit that is so admirable. All the while she is helpless but to play her part as the pawn in a bitter game of revenge.
Stefan is a bit of a mystery, he is tough but fair, kind and cruel at the same time, a mafia monster at his best. Stefan displays a confidence and calmness that most would find unsettling but I find incredibly sexy. I was immediately drawn to his darkness and loved the control he exudes towards Gabriela. The angst, the banter, the chemistry it was all there and all so good and then.... it ends. agh!!!
I need Damage now! I need to know what happens next!!
Although Gabriela is victim in this story she does a good job of holding her own. She has a strong determination and a burning fire in her spirit that is so admirable. All the while she is helpless but to play her part as the pawn in a bitter game of revenge.
Stefan is a bit of a mystery, he is tough but fair, kind and cruel at the same time, a mafia monster at his best. Stefan displays a confidence and calmness that most would find unsettling but I find incredibly sexy. I was immediately drawn to his darkness and loved the control he exudes towards Gabriela. The angst, the banter, the chemistry it was all there and all so good and then.... it ends. agh!!!
I need Damage now! I need to know what happens next!!
January 29, 2025
Content warning:
child abuse, blood, gun violence, slut shaming, death of a parent/sibling (happened in past, off-page), mentions of torture/murder/drowning
Dislikes:
➤ Slut shaming.
ig women aren’t allowed to laugh in Gabriela’s world <3
➤ Gabriela being so naive about the mafia world despite being raised in it. I can’t believe she asked, “Why do you have a gun?” Babe, he’s literally a mafia leader. Be so fr.
➤ The power dynamic made me uncomfortable. He has all the power in this relationship—he’s older than her (she’s only 18!!!!), more powerful (a mafia leader vs. a teenage girl) and strong enough to manhandle her without much resistance on her part (multiple examples of this happening in the book). There is nothing she can do to retaliate against him. In enemy-to-lover books, I like for them to have a somewhat even playing field. That is not the case here. He spends the entire book doing whatever he wants with her and she can’t do anything to combat it besides whine, which doesn’t get her very far. He wins every argument and every fight. At the end of the book, she finally makes a decision that grants her some agency, but will it last? Probably not.
Likes:
➤ Gabriela. She’s a rebellious, stubborn and sneaky bookworm.
➤ Nurse Stefan 🥰🥰 I just love when big, bad mafia men take care of their girls with such care and consideration
➤ Cliffhanger ending. Very controversial, but I love cliffhangers because it gets me more excited to read the next book.
Recommendation: If you’re looking for another forced marriage mafia romance with an age gap, check out Taking Meghan by Izzy Sweet. Happy reading! :)
Dislikes:
➤ Slut shaming.
I think about my mother, how elegant she was, and wonder how he can do it. How he can be with women like this. Sluts and gold-diggers who will drop to their knees to worship at his feet at the snap of his fingers.
I hear a woman’s laughter. A musical sort of laugh that immediately grates on my nerves. It reminds me of my father’s whores.
ig women aren’t allowed to laugh in Gabriela’s world <3
➤ Gabriela being so naive about the mafia world despite being raised in it. I can’t believe she asked, “Why do you have a gun?” Babe, he’s literally a mafia leader. Be so fr.
➤ The power dynamic made me uncomfortable. He has all the power in this relationship—he’s older than her (she’s only 18!!!!), more powerful (a mafia leader vs. a teenage girl) and strong enough to manhandle her without much resistance on her part (multiple examples of this happening in the book). There is nothing she can do to retaliate against him. In enemy-to-lover books, I like for them to have a somewhat even playing field. That is not the case here. He spends the entire book doing whatever he wants with her and she can’t do anything to combat it besides whine, which doesn’t get her very far. He wins every argument and every fight. At the end of the book, she finally makes a decision that grants her some agency, but will it last? Probably not.
Likes:
➤ Gabriela. She’s a rebellious, stubborn and sneaky bookworm.
➤ Nurse Stefan 🥰🥰 I just love when big, bad mafia men take care of their girls with such care and consideration
“This is going to sting,” I say as I put the antiseptic on her cuts. She sucks in a breath and tries to pull away. I stop her. “Almost done.” I do the same to her other knee then bandage them both before taking first one hand, then the other.
➤ Cliffhanger ending. Very controversial, but I love cliffhangers because it gets me more excited to read the next book.
Recommendation: If you’re looking for another forced marriage mafia romance with an age gap, check out Taking Meghan by Izzy Sweet. Happy reading! :)
September 22, 2019
Collateral by Natasha Knight was a superbly written dark mafia romance. I couldn’t get enough of this story and it’s characters. I was pulled in from the very first pages and found myself fully immersed in Stefan and Gabriela’s intense story of hate, lust, and revenge.
“See, you’re in my world now. And in my world, I make the rules and you obey them. I. Own. You.”
Natasha Knight consistently delivers great dark romances and this one was no exception. Like her other heroes, Stefan was cold and ruthless yet in my opinion, he never went too far with Gabriela. I loved how possessive he was of her and hope that we will see even more of his jealousy come out in the next book. He got more than he bargained for (literally, in this case) with Gabriela, whose strength was subtle but impressive. She was a great heroine, intelligent and loyal and with a steel backbone that was formed by her difficult upbringing. The passion between these two burned so brightly, and I love how full of tension their interactions were. They battled so fiercely, neither of them wanting to give in.
“I see the man who owns me. The one who blackmailed my father into giving me up. The man who plays with me. This predator who plays at being my protector.
I love the way the story was laid out and immensely enjoyed the push/pull relationship between Gabriela and Stefan. There are a couple of things in the story that I have my suspicions about, but I will have to patiently await the conclusion to find out. The Clara thing was a little off-putting but I’m hoping things will be clarified in the second book. The writing was fantastic and the length of the story was perfect. I especially appreciate that the main characters didn’t immediately fall into intimacy with each other. I think the author was wise to do this, as it lent to the authenticity of their relationship and circumstances. Things are bound to heat up further in book 2, Damaged, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it.
“See, you’re in my world now. And in my world, I make the rules and you obey them. I. Own. You.”
Natasha Knight consistently delivers great dark romances and this one was no exception. Like her other heroes, Stefan was cold and ruthless yet in my opinion, he never went too far with Gabriela. I loved how possessive he was of her and hope that we will see even more of his jealousy come out in the next book. He got more than he bargained for (literally, in this case) with Gabriela, whose strength was subtle but impressive. She was a great heroine, intelligent and loyal and with a steel backbone that was formed by her difficult upbringing. The passion between these two burned so brightly, and I love how full of tension their interactions were. They battled so fiercely, neither of them wanting to give in.
“I see the man who owns me. The one who blackmailed my father into giving me up. The man who plays with me. This predator who plays at being my protector.
I love the way the story was laid out and immensely enjoyed the push/pull relationship between Gabriela and Stefan. There are a couple of things in the story that I have my suspicions about, but I will have to patiently await the conclusion to find out. The Clara thing was a little off-putting but I’m hoping things will be clarified in the second book. The writing was fantastic and the length of the story was perfect. I especially appreciate that the main characters didn’t immediately fall into intimacy with each other. I think the author was wise to do this, as it lent to the authenticity of their relationship and circumstances. Things are bound to heat up further in book 2, Damaged, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it.
October 18, 2019
4.5 stars!
September 14, 2021
It was unexpectedly good👀
June 20, 2020
4 STARS
Ando en un mood muy mafiosillo culpa de Cora Reilly eeh!!!
Y necesitaba otro libro de mafia, este me lo recomendó Goodreads, me llamó la sinopsis tenia buenas reseñas y aquí me tienen.
Esta primera parte ya que es una bilogía, está buena me mantuvo entretenida, además que a mí me gustan mucho los matrimonios arreglados y como se van enamorando en el proceso, los secretos las traiciones de este mundo.
Aunque eso si me quedó a deber yo pensé que conforme nos acercáramos al final se revelaría uno de los secretos, terminaría en un cliffhanger cosa que no sucedió y que gran parte del libro se basa en la relación no relación de Gabriela y Stefan, sus peleas, discusiones y más peleas en un punto se me a figuró no mucho sino DEMASIADO la película de 365 DNI, pues sí la vi por la trama ajá
Sorry me perdí, anyway el punto es que este primer libro no es malo pero sentí que la trama no terminó de explotar se quedó igual que como empezó, así que espero que en el siguiente se revelen los secretos evolucione la relación de Gabriela y Stefan y sobre todo que haya amor porque este brilló por su ausencia.
Ando en un mood muy mafiosillo culpa de Cora Reilly eeh!!!
Y necesitaba otro libro de mafia, este me lo recomendó Goodreads, me llamó la sinopsis tenia buenas reseñas y aquí me tienen.
Esta primera parte ya que es una bilogía, está buena me mantuvo entretenida, además que a mí me gustan mucho los matrimonios arreglados y como se van enamorando en el proceso, los secretos las traiciones de este mundo.
Aunque eso si me quedó a deber yo pensé que conforme nos acercáramos al final se revelaría uno de los secretos, terminaría en un cliffhanger cosa que no sucedió y que gran parte del libro se basa en la relación no relación de Gabriela y Stefan, sus peleas, discusiones y más peleas en un punto se me a figuró no mucho sino DEMASIADO la película de 365 DNI, pues sí la vi por la trama ajá
Sorry me perdí, anyway el punto es que este primer libro no es malo pero sentí que la trama no terminó de explotar se quedó igual que como empezó, así que espero que en el siguiente se revelen los secretos evolucione la relación de Gabriela y Stefan y sobre todo que haya amor porque este brilló por su ausencia.
September 27, 2019
This book was missing something and I didn’t know what was.
But I liked the story.
But I liked the story.
September 18, 2019
Heart-gripping, edge of your seat romance…
And it is romance. Yes, it is dark. So dark! I wish the author wasn’t so good at this writing thing, because I feel too much. Every hard edge. Every uneasy nuance. But the darkness calls to me. Each and every time.
“I had no control then and I have no control now.”
That was the struggle that Gabi faced and she did it with so much grit and stubbornness. She still felt deeply about those she loved but that didn’t mean she was weak. Not at all. She pushed and pushed some more, even when it was not in her best interest…
Stefan was on a mission of vengeance so, even though it seemed like he admired her for her strength, he wasn’t going to give her much leeway. His anger was years in the making and even if Gabi was a surprise, he was not going to be swayed…
Strong characters. Serious drama. Life changing events. Riveting banter. Stomach churning tension. Hatred. Love. Despair. Hope. Oh, this story had all that and more! With a cliffhanger that left me feeling like I was suspended in air, I am on super stalker mode for the next story. It can’t come soon enough. ~Diane, 5 Dark Hopeful Stars
And it is romance. Yes, it is dark. So dark! I wish the author wasn’t so good at this writing thing, because I feel too much. Every hard edge. Every uneasy nuance. But the darkness calls to me. Each and every time.
“I had no control then and I have no control now.”
That was the struggle that Gabi faced and she did it with so much grit and stubbornness. She still felt deeply about those she loved but that didn’t mean she was weak. Not at all. She pushed and pushed some more, even when it was not in her best interest…
Stefan was on a mission of vengeance so, even though it seemed like he admired her for her strength, he wasn’t going to give her much leeway. His anger was years in the making and even if Gabi was a surprise, he was not going to be swayed…
Strong characters. Serious drama. Life changing events. Riveting banter. Stomach churning tension. Hatred. Love. Despair. Hope. Oh, this story had all that and more! With a cliffhanger that left me feeling like I was suspended in air, I am on super stalker mode for the next story. It can’t come soon enough. ~Diane, 5 Dark Hopeful Stars
September 10, 2019
10 Heart racing, angst filled stars! Holy my word...I’m utterly speechless. First off, I was quickly OBSESSED with this book. It consumed me, and I devoured this book in less than eight hours. The chemistry between Gabi and Stefan crackles and is explosive. Who do you trust? Is anyone safe? Who really will protect you? This is a jaw dropping, heart racing story that you’ll crave more of!
June 17, 2023
There seems to be this misconception at the moment that for a romance to be considered dark it needs to be filled with over the top moments and lots of drama. I’m not buying into this trend, and like the classic dark romances. It’s all about the characters and their actions, and those adding over the top aspects to make things more dramatic kill the twisted nature of the story. Hence my enjoyment of Natasha Knight. Natasha Knight does dark romance the way I like – the way I love – and Collateral is a wonderful example of the author’s work.
From the very first page, Collateral pulled me deep into the story. I was hooked and I could not put it down, completing the book in a single sitting. I fell instantly in love with the characters, the events had me intrigued, and I was creating so many theories throughout. There are so many questions I need answers to, so many things I am excited for in the second book.
In fact, this is one of those books where I was left with more theories than can be possible. It ends on a cliff-hanger, one that leaves you desperate for more, but this only makes up a small part of my theorising. I have theories about so many of the characters, and I’m both hoping I’m right and wrong. The book has me twisted in all the best ways, and I’m eager for more.
I cannot wait to get hold of Damage. The moment I do, I’ll be devouring it for my answers. I’m hooked, and I do not regret it in the slightest.
From the very first page, Collateral pulled me deep into the story. I was hooked and I could not put it down, completing the book in a single sitting. I fell instantly in love with the characters, the events had me intrigued, and I was creating so many theories throughout. There are so many questions I need answers to, so many things I am excited for in the second book.
In fact, this is one of those books where I was left with more theories than can be possible. It ends on a cliff-hanger, one that leaves you desperate for more, but this only makes up a small part of my theorising. I have theories about so many of the characters, and I’m both hoping I’m right and wrong. The book has me twisted in all the best ways, and I’m eager for more.
I cannot wait to get hold of Damage. The moment I do, I’ll be devouring it for my answers. I’m hooked, and I do not regret it in the slightest.
September 10, 2019
A hate to love mafia romance and I’m loving it! Stefan Sabbioni is out for revenge so years later when Gabriel Marchese turns 18 she ends up being the pawn. Gabriel is one feisty strong girl and is torn between 2 monsters. Amazing book and I totally love Stefan and wanna yell at Gabriel! Intense story that I can’t wait for the next book! 5/5 stars
March 27, 2020
didn't know that this is a duology
I won't be reading book two...
is not bad but I am not curious how this ends...I kind of know it
2,5 stars
I won't be reading book two...
is not bad but I am not curious how this ends...I kind of know it
2,5 stars
September 23, 2019
"Out of the frying pan and into the fire. I’m already burning in the flames."
Another formidable mafia story by Natasha Knight *squee!!!*
Dive into Gabriella and Stefan's universe, enjoy the brearhataking trip to Sicily.
Fast paced, action packed, this is a book I devoured in a few hours. From one hell to another, will the young Gabriella eventually find the light? In this world of domination, power and bood, the threats lurk at every corner. A monster eclipses another one and safety is just an illusion.
The author once more played with anticipation, delivering an explosive and steamy read.
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
Another formidable mafia story by Natasha Knight *squee!!!*
Dive into Gabriella and Stefan's universe, enjoy the brearhataking trip to Sicily.
Fast paced, action packed, this is a book I devoured in a few hours. From one hell to another, will the young Gabriella eventually find the light? In this world of domination, power and bood, the threats lurk at every corner. A monster eclipses another one and safety is just an illusion.
The author once more played with anticipation, delivering an explosive and steamy read.
I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED AN ARC COPY OF THIS BOOK. THANK YOU!!!
October 1, 2019
4 stars
Urgh, why did I not realise this was a duet?! I don’t usually read duets or trilogies until all the books are released for this very reason... I was up late last night devouring this and as it got towards the 90% mark with no conclusion in site, I just knew.... so big cliffhanger warning!
Gabriela’s and Stefan’s story is addictive. I wasn’t sure at first, but as the story went on I was drawn into this mafia world and lapped it up. This is a classic forced relationship, with a delicious hero.
Whilst the storyline isn’t overly original, there are still some characters that I have yet to figure out so there are likely to be some twists in the next instalment!
Urgh, why did I not realise this was a duet?! I don’t usually read duets or trilogies until all the books are released for this very reason... I was up late last night devouring this and as it got towards the 90% mark with no conclusion in site, I just knew.... so big cliffhanger warning!
Gabriela’s and Stefan’s story is addictive. I wasn’t sure at first, but as the story went on I was drawn into this mafia world and lapped it up. This is a classic forced relationship, with a delicious hero.
Whilst the storyline isn’t overly original, there are still some characters that I have yet to figure out so there are likely to be some twists in the next instalment!
September 11, 2019
KFForever
Reviewed by Tracey Lou on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
What can I say! As soon as I read the blurb I was hooked. Waiting with great anticipation for it to land on my kindle, I couldn't contain my excitement when it finally arrived. One of my favourite genres.
This story starts by delving into the past to give us a glimpse of what happened and where the story is going to take us and the reasons why. It's not going to be pretty, but you're going to love it as much as I.
Stefan Sabbioni. Tall, dark and handsome with a commanding presence. I guess being a member of the Sicilian mob will do that to you. Wealthy and powerful and hell-bent on revenge. The reason? This is the part where I urge you to read the book, so you can find that out for yourself. Sorry lol
Gabriela Marchese. Beautiful, wilful, scared and sometimes terrified, she's the daughter of a powerful man who practically held her prisoner. Educated at home, she has no friends and lives her life in a gilded cage. Physically and mentally abused by the one person who should have been there to support her, guide her, love and look after her. Her father.
Her mother died in an accident and her brother's in a care facility. She's all alone apart from the one friend she has.
When these two characters first met, only one of them knew what's going to happen. The future is planned, and it isn't going to be all sunshine and roses. Revenge, not a pretty word. Both come with emotional baggage, something they have in common.
Using Gabriela meant that she left one prison for another. The only difference was geography. Packed off to a palatial property in Palermo Italy, awaiting the arrival of her fiancé soon to be husband, she swapped one monster for another. But is he? Being in close proximity to each other means that they both spend more time in each others company. Are you wondering what is coming next? Where this story is going?
Even I can't tell you. All I know is I see past the hard and evil facade Stefan presents to the world. Especially when it comes to Gabriela. She may say she hates him, but as a woman, I know different. Haha! Their story continues in the next book by this author which will be coming to you soon. All I will say is... Wow! I for one, cannot wait.
A note for the author. I can honestly say it's been a while since I've read a book that hooked me, reeled me in and held me captivated from start to end and then left me wanting more. Congratulations to you. A well-deserved 5 stars.
Reviewed by Tracey Lou on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
What can I say! As soon as I read the blurb I was hooked. Waiting with great anticipation for it to land on my kindle, I couldn't contain my excitement when it finally arrived. One of my favourite genres.
This story starts by delving into the past to give us a glimpse of what happened and where the story is going to take us and the reasons why. It's not going to be pretty, but you're going to love it as much as I.
Stefan Sabbioni. Tall, dark and handsome with a commanding presence. I guess being a member of the Sicilian mob will do that to you. Wealthy and powerful and hell-bent on revenge. The reason? This is the part where I urge you to read the book, so you can find that out for yourself. Sorry lol
Gabriela Marchese. Beautiful, wilful, scared and sometimes terrified, she's the daughter of a powerful man who practically held her prisoner. Educated at home, she has no friends and lives her life in a gilded cage. Physically and mentally abused by the one person who should have been there to support her, guide her, love and look after her. Her father.
Her mother died in an accident and her brother's in a care facility. She's all alone apart from the one friend she has.
When these two characters first met, only one of them knew what's going to happen. The future is planned, and it isn't going to be all sunshine and roses. Revenge, not a pretty word. Both come with emotional baggage, something they have in common.
Using Gabriela meant that she left one prison for another. The only difference was geography. Packed off to a palatial property in Palermo Italy, awaiting the arrival of her fiancé soon to be husband, she swapped one monster for another. But is he? Being in close proximity to each other means that they both spend more time in each others company. Are you wondering what is coming next? Where this story is going?
Even I can't tell you. All I know is I see past the hard and evil facade Stefan presents to the world. Especially when it comes to Gabriela. She may say she hates him, but as a woman, I know different. Haha! Their story continues in the next book by this author which will be coming to you soon. All I will say is... Wow! I for one, cannot wait.
A note for the author. I can honestly say it's been a while since I've read a book that hooked me, reeled me in and held me captivated from start to end and then left me wanting more. Congratulations to you. A well-deserved 5 stars.
September 23, 2019
It’s so hard to come across a mafia romance that instantly grabs my attention and this book did that. It was f*cking amazing. I freaking love forced arrange marriages especially where it takes them a while to fall in love. (I hate when they fall too easily.)
We get a hero who is such an a**hole and considers himself a predator and is sometimes downright cruel to the heroine. Gabriela never intended to be tied down to someone with a vendetta and someone who just wants to use her and that what Stefan is doing. She is just a pawn in their games but she doesn’t take things laying down. She fights back (which makes her insanely awesome and her like ability increases tenfold) and voices her opinion a lot. She is a little spitfire who has gone through so much and she isn’t broken. Although she has no say in her life and has to occasionally act like a dutiful submissive, she doesn’t lose her spunk.
Stefan made me want to pull my hair out on multiple occasions. He was so mean yet kind at the same time. He provides Gabriela with opportunities and privileges that she hasn’t been granted in her life so far yet he still wants to use her and punish her if she disobeys him. I am so confused regarding his relationship with his cousins and Gabriela cracks me up when she refers to Clara.
I’m counting down the days until Damage. Luckily it’s not a long wait. I need Stefan to play protector!
November 5, 2021
Out of they frying pan into the FIRE!!! This duet stucked you into it immediately... Gabriella daughter of Gabriel Marchese is blackmailed into giving his only daughter to Sicilian Mobster Stefan Sabbioni for marriage. Gabriel believes Sicillan are beneath him and hate Stefan. So you know what Stefan has on Gabriel must leave him no other choice. On Gabriella 16th birthday Stefan leaves Gabriella a message to deliver to her father with a trinket with dried blood all over it, however Gabriella never delivers the message nor the trinket. That is until the tender age of eighteen when Stefan comes to collect his debt. Gabriella is a strange mix of innocent and naivety but also have learned to deal with ways of monsters. Being raised by her father and life-experiences and her fathers abusive & aggressive ways, Gabrielle has learned to hide how she feels around her father.
Stefan Sabbioni will take everything Gabriel Marchese took from him, starting with the precious daugher, she’s just a pawn in his plan for the ultimate revenge. Gabriela’s father took something from him. Now Stefan is willing to return the favor. This time he plans on taking EVERYTHING including Gabriel's daughter because now she belongs to ME. I’m not one to play nice and I don’t share my toys. I’ll demolish you if you touch what’s mine.
And she is most definitely mine. love it!!!
Stefan Sabbioni will take everything Gabriel Marchese took from him, starting with the precious daugher, she’s just a pawn in his plan for the ultimate revenge. Gabriela’s father took something from him. Now Stefan is willing to return the favor. This time he plans on taking EVERYTHING including Gabriel's daughter because now she belongs to ME. I’m not one to play nice and I don’t share my toys. I’ll demolish you if you touch what’s mine.
And she is most definitely mine. love it!!!
October 15, 2019
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Mafia romance. OMG that cliffy. Why would she run back to him, dumb move chica! This is a great dark romance mafia book. Very well done. Can’t wait for the next book.
January 26, 2021
It was good......
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