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Sweet Collateral
Sold. Traded. Bought, by the ruthless leader of the Juarez cartel.Rafael D’Cruze is a bad man, and he can’t possibly want me for anything good. Just when I expect him to take and hurt, and use, he doesn’t.And somewhere in my broken mind, his captivity begins to feel like kindness. He starts to feel like salvation.I should hate him and everything he stands for. I should want him dead, but I find myself wondering what it would feel like to be in his arms. To want a man’s touch.Maybe I truly am broken. Or perhaps in a world of monsters, I just want to be loved by one.I'm his sweet collateral and he’s my monster…
514 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2021
367 people are currently reading
559 people want to read
About the author
L.P. Lovell
65 books2,408 followersLauren Lovell is an indie author from England. She suffers from a total lack of brain to mouth filter and is the friend you have to explain before you introduce her to anyone, and apologise for afterwards.
She's a self confessed shameless pervert, who may be suffering from slight peen envy.
Lauren loves to hear from readers so please add her on Goodreads, Facebook and Twitter. Visit her website www.lplovell.com.
She's a self confessed shameless pervert, who may be suffering from slight peen envy.
Lauren loves to hear from readers so please add her on Goodreads, Facebook and Twitter. Visit her website www.lplovell.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 23, 2021
4.5 stars
It took me a little bit to figure out why this book was so familiar. I had read it before when it was titled something else. This followed Una's sister, Ana, and how she came to be part of the story. Una had been looking for her and Nero used that to his advantage and had left her in Rafe's care.
My heart hurt for Ana. Yet, with Rafael's help, I enjoyed watching her blossom. She was so lost after years of captivity and she didn't know who she was other than what she had been, a whore. Rafe was not a good man in the typical sense considering his profession, but he was good for her and she needed that. The author did a good job of making this story realistic and heartbreaking. She also showed redemption, hope, and freedom. It was a healing journey for both the characters for different reasons.
I am not sure as to why this is getting a whole new book title and all that. It has been so long since I read the previous book, that I am not sure if new content was added or not. What I do know is that this was still a riveting story and one that I would highly recommend.
It took me a little bit to figure out why this book was so familiar. I had read it before when it was titled something else. This followed Una's sister, Ana, and how she came to be part of the story. Una had been looking for her and Nero used that to his advantage and had left her in Rafe's care.
My heart hurt for Ana. Yet, with Rafael's help, I enjoyed watching her blossom. She was so lost after years of captivity and she didn't know who she was other than what she had been, a whore. Rafe was not a good man in the typical sense considering his profession, but he was good for her and she needed that. The author did a good job of making this story realistic and heartbreaking. She also showed redemption, hope, and freedom. It was a healing journey for both the characters for different reasons.
I am not sure as to why this is getting a whole new book title and all that. It has been so long since I read the previous book, that I am not sure if new content was added or not. What I do know is that this was still a riveting story and one that I would highly recommend.
May 22, 2023
Wow.
Don't know what to say but my heart was breaking..
I wish the last 10% was different to be honest. My heart broke for Anna. And Rafe. I think there was enough darkness that the last plot twist was unnecessary, it needed a balance.
Also, I really wish he seeked her out in the end, not the other way around.. it made me actually angry at him, and think he had to do something to redeem that part. As him abandoning her, even if for the right reasons in his head the first time, the second time was the worst thing.
If it wasn't for that it would have been 5 heart breaking stars.
Don't know what to say but my heart was breaking..
I wish the last 10% was different to be honest. My heart broke for Anna. And Rafe. I think there was enough darkness that the last plot twist was unnecessary, it needed a balance.
Also, I really wish he seeked her out in the end, not the other way around.. it made me actually angry at him, and think he had to do something to redeem that part. As him abandoning her, even if for the right reasons in his head the first time, the second time was the worst thing.
If it wasn't for that it would have been 5 heart breaking stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2022
Too long!
I liked the way the story began. I loved how Rafael was very patient with Anna as they began to fall in love, but the story just dragged on and on. Then the ending part was ridiculous. Just jot for me. Also, the book is filled with mistakes. Halfway through, Nikolai becomes Nicholai (once Nicholia). Sometimes it’s D’Cruze, others it’s D’Cruz. There are many grammar issues as well. An editor and proofreader would be helpful.
I liked the way the story began. I loved how Rafael was very patient with Anna as they began to fall in love, but the story just dragged on and on. Then the ending part was ridiculous. Just jot for me. Also, the book is filled with mistakes. Halfway through, Nikolai becomes Nicholai (once Nicholia). Sometimes it’s D’Cruze, others it’s D’Cruz. There are many grammar issues as well. An editor and proofreader would be helpful.
May 9, 2021
Man, I loved Kiss of Death.
This almost stole the title.
Anna is the strongest woman you'll ever read about.
She went through unimaginable hell and still smiled after it all.
Rafael, I kinda adore the cartel boss for all the wrong reasons.
This trilogy broke me time and time again. I loved it so hopelessly, then the ending came and it felt like it lost all steam. Anna became her sisters 2.0 and I wanted to see more of that. Was she designed for that job no. Was she perfect yes.
I felt the power slipped through her fingers and it kinda sucked the end of the book out of it badassness. Don't think I didn't enjoy it. I wholeheartedly loved it. I definitely didn't except it.
LP killed it as she always does. Seeing how the time line ticked parallel to Kiss of Death was so cool. I love it when it works. It showed how baddass the sisters really are.
My fav didn't die so I'm all okay. I can't say who. Read it and maybe I'll spill.
I thought for a hot second they were gone and I was ready to send my kindle flying. Don't play those dirty tricks on my Lauren. I'm not Una or Anna.
Read it. Just read it and be as obsessed as I am.
This almost stole the title.
Anna is the strongest woman you'll ever read about.
She went through unimaginable hell and still smiled after it all.
Rafael, I kinda adore the cartel boss for all the wrong reasons.
This trilogy broke me time and time again. I loved it so hopelessly, then the ending came and it felt like it lost all steam. Anna became her sisters 2.0 and I wanted to see more of that. Was she designed for that job no. Was she perfect yes.
I felt the power slipped through her fingers and it kinda sucked the end of the book out of it badassness. Don't think I didn't enjoy it. I wholeheartedly loved it. I definitely didn't except it.
LP killed it as she always does. Seeing how the time line ticked parallel to Kiss of Death was so cool. I love it when it works. It showed how baddass the sisters really are.
My fav didn't die so I'm all okay. I can't say who. Read it and maybe I'll spill.
I thought for a hot second they were gone and I was ready to send my kindle flying. Don't play those dirty tricks on my Lauren. I'm not Una or Anna.
Read it. Just read it and be as obsessed as I am.
October 18, 2021
Another fab dark romance from this author.
I loved Rafael & Anna’s story. Every single chapter was filled to the brim with drama, passion & sex. I couldn’t ask for anything more when it comes to this genre. A must read if dark romance is your thing. Can’t wait to read more from LP Lovell.
I loved Rafael & Anna’s story. Every single chapter was filled to the brim with drama, passion & sex. I couldn’t ask for anything more when it comes to this genre. A must read if dark romance is your thing. Can’t wait to read more from LP Lovell.
April 10, 2023
loved until the end
This is a good read but I cant love Anna’s choices in the end. The justification is there but always save the innocent.
This is a good read but I cant love Anna’s choices in the end. The justification is there but always save the innocent.
November 30, 2025
The first half of this book was a solid 4 star despite the fact that this man was a drug lord but was willing to risk his cartel and confess his love for the main girl by like 35% into the book. (I was definitely like makes no sense but alrighty.)
The second half was just a mess like why are we rewriting the whole FMCs character??? And I loved Una in her Duology but she actually pissed me off so much in this one like let your sister live her own life good laws. So I’m leaving this book with an affectionate two stars cause this was definitely an easy book to read even if I left feeling annoyed and disappointed. I was sick reading this anyway so I was there for the drama.
There are still a few books in this universe I want to read so hopefully those are better than this one!
The second half was just a mess like why are we rewriting the whole FMCs character??? And I loved Una in her Duology but she actually pissed me off so much in this one like let your sister live her own life good laws. So I’m leaving this book with an affectionate two stars cause this was definitely an easy book to read even if I left feeling annoyed and disappointed. I was sick reading this anyway so I was there for the drama.
There are still a few books in this universe I want to read so hopefully those are better than this one!
January 25, 2024
“You’re like coming home when I’ve never had one.”
Started off the new year with Anna and Rafael's love story. And what a journey that was.
I noticed that originally, this was a trilogy. Three separate books, three separate release dates. Thank goodness I read it now because I just kept reading and reading and reading and I did not want to stop.
"Torn apart and brought back together. Both loving each other, whilst torturing each other. That’s what this is. It’s beautiful but painful. Love within war. The perfect contradiction—just as we have always been."
Long story short: Read it. JUST. READ. IT.
Started off the new year with Anna and Rafael's love story. And what a journey that was.
I noticed that originally, this was a trilogy. Three separate books, three separate release dates. Thank goodness I read it now because I just kept reading and reading and reading and I did not want to stop.
"Torn apart and brought back together. Both loving each other, whilst torturing each other. That’s what this is. It’s beautiful but painful. Love within war. The perfect contradiction—just as we have always been."
Long story short: Read it. JUST. READ. IT.
May 4, 2021
SWEET COLLATERAL by LP Lovell is a contemporary, adult, organized crime, dark romance story line focusing on crime lord /Mexican cartel head Rafael D’Cruze, and twenty-two year old, sex slave Anna Vasiliev. Anna was first introduced in the Kiss of Death Trilogy. Some of the events of SWEET COLLATERAL run parallel to and cross over with a number of events in the KISS OF DEATH TRILOGY.
NOTE: SWEET COLLATERAL was originally released as a three book Collateral Trilogy (Hate Me, Hold Me, Have Me).
WARNING: Due to the extreme graphic nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Rafe and Anna) SWEET COLLATERAL follows Rafael D’Cruze when a favor is called in by the Italian Mafia wherein Rafe is ordered to rescue and protect our story line heroine. Anna Vasiliev, along with her sister Una, were raised in a Russian orphanage but at thirteen years of age Anna was sold as a sex slave to the Russian Bratva, who eventually sold her to the Sinaloa Mexican cartel. Fast forward to present day wherein Rafe finds himself protector and guardian of a young woman, so damaged and broken, he battles between head and heart knowing that to keep Anna for himself could mean a war with the Italian mob. As Rafe continues as head of the Mexican cartel, Anna finds herself often the target of any number of attempts to get her back, attempts wherein lives are lost, often too close to home. What ensues is the building friendship and relationship between Rafe and Anna, and the potential fall-out as Anna continues to struggle with issues of trust, including with the man with whom she will fall in love.
Anna Vasiliev has been so abused at the hands of many men that our heroine considers herself nothing more than a slave and a wh*re. Willing to risk her life for the freedom she has never known, our heroine struggles with issues of trust including the truth behind the reason she is currently under Rafael’s protection and control. Rafael D’Cruze is not an easy man. He is a killer who never hesitates but something about Anna threatens all of his control, a control he is going to need when both the Sinaloan cartel and Russian Bratva come seeking revenge and the return of our story line heroine.
The relationship between Rafe and Anna begins as a rescue but Anna is broken both inside and out, and struggles with a history of abuse at the hands of many men. Always running without any place to go, Anna’s embattled relationship with Rafe eventually pushes our heroine out of Rafe’s life, a push towards the family she wants to know. Rafael D’Cruze knows he is supposed to return Anna to the head of the Italian mob but when the truth is revealed Rafael becomes guardian, protector and lover to a woman who has never known love, kindness, friendship or hugs but Rafe struggles with the constant danger his lifestyle presents to our story line heroine, a lifestyle he is hoping to not have Anna involved. The $ex scenes between Rafe and Anna are intimate and passionate.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Anna’s sister Una and her love Nero (Kiss of Death Trilogy), as well as a number of members of Rafael’s cartel, and household employees. The requisite evil has many faces.
SWEET COLLATERAL is another dark, gritty, haunting and powerful story line of control, abuse and betrayal, conflict and vengeance, family and love. The premise is twisted and tragic; the romance is provocative; the characters are broken, flawed, shattered and twisted.
www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: SWEET COLLATERAL was originally released as a three book Collateral Trilogy (Hate Me, Hold Me, Have Me).
WARNING: Due to the extreme graphic nature of the story line premise there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Rafe and Anna) SWEET COLLATERAL follows Rafael D’Cruze when a favor is called in by the Italian Mafia wherein Rafe is ordered to rescue and protect our story line heroine. Anna Vasiliev, along with her sister Una, were raised in a Russian orphanage but at thirteen years of age Anna was sold as a sex slave to the Russian Bratva, who eventually sold her to the Sinaloa Mexican cartel. Fast forward to present day wherein Rafe finds himself protector and guardian of a young woman, so damaged and broken, he battles between head and heart knowing that to keep Anna for himself could mean a war with the Italian mob. As Rafe continues as head of the Mexican cartel, Anna finds herself often the target of any number of attempts to get her back, attempts wherein lives are lost, often too close to home. What ensues is the building friendship and relationship between Rafe and Anna, and the potential fall-out as Anna continues to struggle with issues of trust, including with the man with whom she will fall in love.
Anna Vasiliev has been so abused at the hands of many men that our heroine considers herself nothing more than a slave and a wh*re. Willing to risk her life for the freedom she has never known, our heroine struggles with issues of trust including the truth behind the reason she is currently under Rafael’s protection and control. Rafael D’Cruze is not an easy man. He is a killer who never hesitates but something about Anna threatens all of his control, a control he is going to need when both the Sinaloan cartel and Russian Bratva come seeking revenge and the return of our story line heroine.
The relationship between Rafe and Anna begins as a rescue but Anna is broken both inside and out, and struggles with a history of abuse at the hands of many men. Always running without any place to go, Anna’s embattled relationship with Rafe eventually pushes our heroine out of Rafe’s life, a push towards the family she wants to know. Rafael D’Cruze knows he is supposed to return Anna to the head of the Italian mob but when the truth is revealed Rafael becomes guardian, protector and lover to a woman who has never known love, kindness, friendship or hugs but Rafe struggles with the constant danger his lifestyle presents to our story line heroine, a lifestyle he is hoping to not have Anna involved. The $ex scenes between Rafe and Anna are intimate and passionate.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Anna’s sister Una and her love Nero (Kiss of Death Trilogy), as well as a number of members of Rafael’s cartel, and household employees. The requisite evil has many faces.
SWEET COLLATERAL is another dark, gritty, haunting and powerful story line of control, abuse and betrayal, conflict and vengeance, family and love. The premise is twisted and tragic; the romance is provocative; the characters are broken, flawed, shattered and twisted.
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 3, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Anna
I'm a whore. A slave. A possession. Freedom is so close I can almost taste it, only to have it snatched away under the guise of protection. A gilded cage is still a cage. Rafael D'Cruze is a bad man. I hate him, so why do I feel safe with him?
Rafael
She's a favor. A pretty slave. Sweet collateral. I have no interest in Ann beyond keeping her alive to for the man who now owns her and paying off a debt. And yet, I'm fascinated by the little salve. I find myself willing to bleed for a willing touch, a trusting glance. A broken little bird. The big bad wolf. A longing that could heal or destroy. Hate me or Hold me?
Oh my gosh I was so excited once I started this book and realized that this is the story of Anna Una's sister. If you have read Kiss of Death which is available in a boxset in case you haven't, then you know exactly who Anna is. She is Una's long lost sister that she has been looking for forever. EEEEEP!!!! So excited was I and this book does not disappoint. You could read this book as a standalone but I am telling you now you are going to want to know Una and Nero's story. Now we find that Nero has called in a long time debt from Raphael. He is too get the girl that Nero is buying and keep her safe no matter what. Of course the cartel boss doesn't really want to do this and he sure doesn't have time to babysit a slave but once he has his eyes on Anna all bets are off. He is determined to make her realize that she is free. But she doesn't believe it for a second. I loved this book. I so don't want to give anything away but man I loved these two characters, all the side characters and was so excited to see Una, Sasha and Nero in action. There is a lot that goes on in this book and some of it will just tear your heart out. This is a love story that is well fought for, doubted, heart shattering, a struggle, a miracle and I could go on and on. I think this is one of my favorites from L.P. Lovell. I almost cried when Una has her eyes on Anna once again for the first time since they were kids in a orphanage but then again I guess it was shocking to Anna to see what her sister has turned into. Man I could just go on and on about this book. I just finished it and I am still processing some of it but I loved it so much and if you love dark romances then you do not want to miss this book. Waiting on Anna's story was so worth the wait and no I think all the side character's need their own stories too. I just am not ready to let all these amazing character's go.
Anna
I'm a whore. A slave. A possession. Freedom is so close I can almost taste it, only to have it snatched away under the guise of protection. A gilded cage is still a cage. Rafael D'Cruze is a bad man. I hate him, so why do I feel safe with him?
Rafael
She's a favor. A pretty slave. Sweet collateral. I have no interest in Ann beyond keeping her alive to for the man who now owns her and paying off a debt. And yet, I'm fascinated by the little salve. I find myself willing to bleed for a willing touch, a trusting glance. A broken little bird. The big bad wolf. A longing that could heal or destroy. Hate me or Hold me?
Oh my gosh I was so excited once I started this book and realized that this is the story of Anna Una's sister. If you have read Kiss of Death which is available in a boxset in case you haven't, then you know exactly who Anna is. She is Una's long lost sister that she has been looking for forever. EEEEEP!!!! So excited was I and this book does not disappoint. You could read this book as a standalone but I am telling you now you are going to want to know Una and Nero's story. Now we find that Nero has called in a long time debt from Raphael. He is too get the girl that Nero is buying and keep her safe no matter what. Of course the cartel boss doesn't really want to do this and he sure doesn't have time to babysit a slave but once he has his eyes on Anna all bets are off. He is determined to make her realize that she is free. But she doesn't believe it for a second. I loved this book. I so don't want to give anything away but man I loved these two characters, all the side characters and was so excited to see Una, Sasha and Nero in action. There is a lot that goes on in this book and some of it will just tear your heart out. This is a love story that is well fought for, doubted, heart shattering, a struggle, a miracle and I could go on and on. I think this is one of my favorites from L.P. Lovell. I almost cried when Una has her eyes on Anna once again for the first time since they were kids in a orphanage but then again I guess it was shocking to Anna to see what her sister has turned into. Man I could just go on and on about this book. I just finished it and I am still processing some of it but I loved it so much and if you love dark romances then you do not want to miss this book. Waiting on Anna's story was so worth the wait and no I think all the side character's need their own stories too. I just am not ready to let all these amazing character's go.
April 27, 2021
After reading Una and Nero’s books, I was nervous to start Anna’s books because I knew she’d break my heart. Well, she did. Her past is just devastating. I love how Rafe really sees her and helps her grow back into herself. I have enjoyed her character arc throughout this trilogy. And Rafe’s devotion to protecting and loving her are amazing.
Sweet Collateral is intense, tragic, and beautiful, too. This has been a great trilogy. If you like mafia reads/dark romance with a broken heroine and a lethal, broody, but protective alpha, this one is for you! Also be sure to check out the Kiss of Death trilogy, which follows Anna’s sister, Una. These have all been awesome books!
Sweet Collateral is intense, tragic, and beautiful, too. This has been a great trilogy. If you like mafia reads/dark romance with a broken heroine and a lethal, broody, but protective alpha, this one is for you! Also be sure to check out the Kiss of Death trilogy, which follows Anna’s sister, Una. These have all been awesome books!
April 29, 2021
Rafe and Anna's story was intense, emotional, heart-recking, loving and also somewhat dark & so so good.
Anna my sweetesttttt lovely girl I loved her so so much and Rafe gosh how he sees her.
I love how their chemistry grows and Una well I liked her but didn't like her at the same time sad sigh* but I m intrigued to read her story because this being my first read of LP Lovell.
Overall I love it and this series leaves me wanting more.
*arc received in exchange for an honest review*
Anna my sweetesttttt lovely girl I loved her so so much and Rafe gosh how he sees her.
I love how their chemistry grows and Una well I liked her but didn't like her at the same time sad sigh* but I m intrigued to read her story because this being my first read of LP Lovell.
Overall I love it and this series leaves me wanting more.
*arc received in exchange for an honest review*
July 22, 2022
It's a DNF at 65%. I absolutely loved the first half and I thought this was going to be a 5 star read for sure, but it's just too long. The plot is starting to repeat and the story is dragging now. It's a real shame because the writing is absolutely fantastic and the characters have so much depth. Their growth and development is amazing and I was really enjoying their story. Maybe I just need a break and I'll go back to it. 🤷♀️
May 3, 2021
Anna and Rafes story was heartbreaking, especially Anna who is practically dead behind the eyes cause of what she hasn’t had to endure and Rafe who is anything but sweet melts for Anna and he brings the light back to her eyes but when she’s threatened there’s nothing that will get in his way for Anna
October 17, 2022
This is going to be an unpopular opinion, but Una and Anna are my least favorite characters.
July 6, 2025
Everything you could want in one book!
I honestly think this book was the perfect length, the author used every single page and left nothing behind to be questioned.
I've seen some say it was too long, could of been a series, and yeah it could of. But why?
You could of easily made it a duet/Trilogy, shortened the book to 300 pages each. However, to me that just makes no sense.
With it all being in one, everything felt a lot more together and realistic.
It made the timeline more believable, it made the events more understanding-because in the real world they would be happening that fast.
The characters development was beautiful to watch, and the pain she holds just grabs you from the start.
The way she struggles with the two sides of herself? Whilst most would hopefully not know what shes gone through, those who have struggled with trauma and mental health will understand the "lie" she sees in the mirror.
And I have to say, I love how Rafe supports her with it. Anna said how he doesn't need to say much, because he always knows just what to say. There were a few of his lines that will stay with me, and I will question myself with them whenever I see my lie reflecting back at me.
The only problem I had was Una.
Dont get me wrong, I think shes a great character. Her strength, the way she never gave up looking for Anna, her sacrifices- I completely admire her.
My only issue with her was how she would put down Anna and Rafe. Yes, she was being protective and you can see some understanding when she makes Anna question, whether she loves Rafe for love, or if its because hes the first man to not abuse her.
However, because of how detached Una is to her emotions and those of others, she also disregards Anna's feelings on the matter completely. As if she doesn't know her own self, and I think that then plays into more of Anna's confusion when she is trying to find herself.
I agree with Rafe that Una handled Anna wrong. Yes, I love she gave her that 'purpose', but Anna's purpose was clearly to save the girls. That's what was going to save her soul and heal her, but everytime Anna tried Una fought her. She wanted Anna to kill and go- like her. She couldn't understand all the complexities that Anna was facing and therefore just tried to turn her into a version she could understand.
But again, that is all to do with how Una was raised and how she had to shut herself of to survive.
The depth you reach in this book is incredible, and I honestly could of kept diving and never of got bored.
100% worth the read, if youre looking for something that will pull you in, break you, and comfort you all in one 🖤
I honestly think this book was the perfect length, the author used every single page and left nothing behind to be questioned.
I've seen some say it was too long, could of been a series, and yeah it could of. But why?
You could of easily made it a duet/Trilogy, shortened the book to 300 pages each. However, to me that just makes no sense.
With it all being in one, everything felt a lot more together and realistic.
It made the timeline more believable, it made the events more understanding-because in the real world they would be happening that fast.
The characters development was beautiful to watch, and the pain she holds just grabs you from the start.
The way she struggles with the two sides of herself? Whilst most would hopefully not know what shes gone through, those who have struggled with trauma and mental health will understand the "lie" she sees in the mirror.
And I have to say, I love how Rafe supports her with it. Anna said how he doesn't need to say much, because he always knows just what to say. There were a few of his lines that will stay with me, and I will question myself with them whenever I see my lie reflecting back at me.
The only problem I had was Una.
Dont get me wrong, I think shes a great character. Her strength, the way she never gave up looking for Anna, her sacrifices- I completely admire her.
My only issue with her was how she would put down Anna and Rafe. Yes, she was being protective and you can see some understanding when she makes Anna question, whether she loves Rafe for love, or if its because hes the first man to not abuse her.
However, because of how detached Una is to her emotions and those of others, she also disregards Anna's feelings on the matter completely. As if she doesn't know her own self, and I think that then plays into more of Anna's confusion when she is trying to find herself.
I agree with Rafe that Una handled Anna wrong. Yes, I love she gave her that 'purpose', but Anna's purpose was clearly to save the girls. That's what was going to save her soul and heal her, but everytime Anna tried Una fought her. She wanted Anna to kill and go- like her. She couldn't understand all the complexities that Anna was facing and therefore just tried to turn her into a version she could understand.
But again, that is all to do with how Una was raised and how she had to shut herself of to survive.
The depth you reach in this book is incredible, and I honestly could of kept diving and never of got bored.
100% worth the read, if youre looking for something that will pull you in, break you, and comfort you all in one 🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2023
already in my mind this book has two parts:
part 1: rafeal and mexico
part 2: russia and una
so part 1:
I loved this part and would give it 5 stars. I loved how innocent their relationship was even though it was surrounded by so much darkness. I loved how she was so fixated on the pond and that became their place.
I also really liked how rafael took her on his business expenditures and did not hide. like when they went to the hanger and he explained why the women were in their underwear- so they couldn’t steal.
Often in books mafia gets romanized and glorified which this book did a lot less which I liked.
so part 2:
This part I liked a little less. I would give it 3 stars. I feel like everything was a little repeating which did show how conflicted their relationship was but at a certain even I was getting fed up with their fighting (but I understand the authorial choices.)
I also wish that the part of the book with suicide and SH should’ve gotten a lot more attention and it is never brought up again. I think that it had a lot of really good potential and it would also make sense why she did what she did.
I also wish there was so revealing that Una made Rafeal send Anna away because I think it would a lot more to the conflict of Anna turning into Una.
However, the real bone I have to pick is THE FUCKING ENDING.
It simply does not seem right to the end the book with Anna trading women for her child. It should’ve been different.
I would’ve liked to see that she went to New Zeeland and became a nanny or smt and realized she wants to become a mom and have a child with Rafeal.
Overall, this is not a book I will easily forget and I did really enjoy it.
part 1: rafeal and mexico
part 2: russia and una
so part 1:
I loved this part and would give it 5 stars. I loved how innocent their relationship was even though it was surrounded by so much darkness. I loved how she was so fixated on the pond and that became their place.
I also really liked how rafael took her on his business expenditures and did not hide. like when they went to the hanger and he explained why the women were in their underwear- so they couldn’t steal.
Often in books mafia gets romanized and glorified which this book did a lot less which I liked.
so part 2:
This part I liked a little less. I would give it 3 stars. I feel like everything was a little repeating which did show how conflicted their relationship was but at a certain even I was getting fed up with their fighting (but I understand the authorial choices.)
I also wish that the part of the book with suicide and SH should’ve gotten a lot more attention and it is never brought up again. I think that it had a lot of really good potential and it would also make sense why she did what she did.
I also wish there was so revealing that Una made Rafeal send Anna away because I think it would a lot more to the conflict of Anna turning into Una.
However, the real bone I have to pick is THE FUCKING ENDING.
It simply does not seem right to the end the book with Anna trading women for her child. It should’ve been different.
I would’ve liked to see that she went to New Zeeland and became a nanny or smt and realized she wants to become a mom and have a child with Rafeal.
Overall, this is not a book I will easily forget and I did really enjoy it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2025
This book pissed me off soo much! It should’ve been a DNF, but I have this weird fixation that I have to finish a book that I started even if I hate it. 🙃
Don’t get me wrong, the first half or maybe 60% or so of the book had potential. It was a basic story line with the captor ending up as the saviour of this tortured sex slave. But sometimes you need something simple that works. HOWEVER, tell me why the FMC ended up being so annoying and dumb when she was meant to become this badass killer/assassin? And please please tell me why I ended up hating the MMC by the end of the book? 😐 It’s meant to be the other way around, where you hate him and then as the story goes on you can’t help but love him. Nah, this was the complete opposite. And both of them were walking contradictions. Like he would have a go at her for calling herself a whore but then end up calling her one when he was jealous just to hurt her? Ummm,what?
I’m sorry but this book was just not it and it was soo painful to get through after the first half. The ending was also so random and felt so forced just to make it something “dark” and “fucked up”. Nope, not it for me.
There were also soo many spelling mistakes, and don’t get me wrong I’m no expert (particularly that English is my secondary language), but they were so silly and frequent that it became noticeable and took you out of the story/reading experience.
The only reason it’s getting 2 starts instead of 1 is because of Una and Nero and the first half of the book. But would definitely not recommend.
Don’t get me wrong, the first half or maybe 60% or so of the book had potential. It was a basic story line with the captor ending up as the saviour of this tortured sex slave. But sometimes you need something simple that works. HOWEVER, tell me why the FMC ended up being so annoying and dumb when she was meant to become this badass killer/assassin? And please please tell me why I ended up hating the MMC by the end of the book? 😐 It’s meant to be the other way around, where you hate him and then as the story goes on you can’t help but love him. Nah, this was the complete opposite. And both of them were walking contradictions. Like he would have a go at her for calling herself a whore but then end up calling her one when he was jealous just to hurt her? Ummm,what?
I’m sorry but this book was just not it and it was soo painful to get through after the first half. The ending was also so random and felt so forced just to make it something “dark” and “fucked up”. Nope, not it for me.
There were also soo many spelling mistakes, and don’t get me wrong I’m no expert (particularly that English is my secondary language), but they were so silly and frequent that it became noticeable and took you out of the story/reading experience.
The only reason it’s getting 2 starts instead of 1 is because of Una and Nero and the first half of the book. But would definitely not recommend.
May 25, 2021
Rafael, ruthless boss of Juarez cartel.
Anna, a whore, sex slave, a possession, living in the nightmare.
He owes the favor to a friend, she’s a collateral he agreed to look after. None of them knows at the beginning what impact the time spent together will have on them… They just meant to co-exist, but it never goes as planned.
Rafael and Anna are quite unique, bold characters, strong willed, painfully touched in the past, trying to find their ways through trauma and grief. As the book progresses we witness their emotional and inner development, discover what they could have together and how much stronger they could be as one in case of what might be forced against them.
Anna’s strength grows from the moment of her rescue, she's completely unaware of her affect on Rafael, how she can soften ruthless cartel beast.
I loved how patient and supportive Rafael was towards Anna, how he put his own feelings, emotions, needs aside just to firstly help her. How he can adjust to what she requires, safety and much needed stability in dangerous cartel life. How was able to sacrifice/put on hold their future together just to let her find herself,feelings - learn and understand. So she will be able to find her way back to what she truly needs and desires.
Sweet Collateral is dark,depraved, rough, emotional and heartbreaking. Intense, dramatic, full of suspense to the point you don’t want to put it away, just carry on reading. Perfectly created cartel mafia romance that will satisfy even the most demanding readers. Mexican Cartel, Italian Mafia and Russian Bratva - all in one.
It was my 1st book by L.P. Lovell and I know it won’t be the last one.
Anna, a whore, sex slave, a possession, living in the nightmare.
He owes the favor to a friend, she’s a collateral he agreed to look after. None of them knows at the beginning what impact the time spent together will have on them… They just meant to co-exist, but it never goes as planned.
Rafael and Anna are quite unique, bold characters, strong willed, painfully touched in the past, trying to find their ways through trauma and grief. As the book progresses we witness their emotional and inner development, discover what they could have together and how much stronger they could be as one in case of what might be forced against them.
Anna’s strength grows from the moment of her rescue, she's completely unaware of her affect on Rafael, how she can soften ruthless cartel beast.
I loved how patient and supportive Rafael was towards Anna, how he put his own feelings, emotions, needs aside just to firstly help her. How he can adjust to what she requires, safety and much needed stability in dangerous cartel life. How was able to sacrifice/put on hold their future together just to let her find herself,feelings - learn and understand. So she will be able to find her way back to what she truly needs and desires.
Sweet Collateral is dark,depraved, rough, emotional and heartbreaking. Intense, dramatic, full of suspense to the point you don’t want to put it away, just carry on reading. Perfectly created cartel mafia romance that will satisfy even the most demanding readers. Mexican Cartel, Italian Mafia and Russian Bratva - all in one.
It was my 1st book by L.P. Lovell and I know it won’t be the last one.
May 25, 2021
4.5 so not quite a 5 star. It was a fast paced read, I couldn't put it down. I did have a few moral issues with some of the things the characters did and I did think that the ending was a bit rushed but that's just me wanting all things resolved and wrapped up in a bow. I think it's a good thing that I'm left wanting more even though I hate that at the same time. It feels as if there's more to the story, more to the side characters. Una and Sasha both have their own books. And so I hope that we see other characters as well. I'm a bit torn about going straight into another one of her books because I don't want to submerge myself in this kind of darkness. Need some light to balance it out. But all in all it was almost a 5 star read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2023
This felt like 3 different books, and lo and behold, it was. Originally published as a trilogy, it was put together in this book as one LONG 500 page book. The first 2 parts were good, but the last section, or “book” was terrible. The FMC was also written so out of character I had to make sure this was the same book. Turning her from a broken timid woman to GI Jane?!! The FMC’s sister was selfish AF and annoying. So much so that I don’t want to read her book. Also the last 10% was unnecessary, the plot twist was dumb and not even believable and the “sacrifice” that the FMC made, had me upset to the point that I didn’t even care about their HEA. The author could have done without the final 200 pages, gave us a HEA and it would have a better book.
January 13, 2024
God, am I angry. There is so much wrong with the book. It's not even the other half like the other reviews are saying, it's the first few chapters themselves. 9 years and the so called main lead called Rafael can't show her any compassion!? He is involved in this business because he knows when, where, who and has the means to stop it but doesn't. He calls women wh*res and all and just straightaway want the female lead to be strong? Like let her rest, let her grieve what happened to her but the author doesn't want to match the timeline or emotions with what she went through. 9 years of torture melted off in a few days of nothing but 1 percent of almost a pinch of something from the main lead? The same sh*t where it's like 'he should scare me but he doesn't, I trust him'. Wth!?
February 17, 2022
“You’re like coming home when I’ve never had one.”-Anna
LOVED this book!! Wow! What a story!!!
I cried 3 different times in this book, and clung to each page as if it was my own story being told. Absolutely 10/10 recommend this book!!
**only negative thing- there were quite a few of grammatical errors and usually that puts me off a book but this one was so good I moved on past it, but due to those errors I am giving it 4 🌟.
LOVED this book!! Wow! What a story!!!
I cried 3 different times in this book, and clung to each page as if it was my own story being told. Absolutely 10/10 recommend this book!!
**only negative thing- there were quite a few of grammatical errors and usually that puts me off a book but this one was so good I moved on past it, but due to those errors I am giving it 4 🌟.
June 21, 2025
this has a lot of trigger warnings but great book
This book was the hardest one I have ever read it’s about a woman who was bought from a sex trade. She was raped and beat from age 13. She was housed and protected by a man that was doing a favor for another. Everything goes side ways and he falls for her hard. This book has trigger warnings death,rape, sex trafficking, beating, and it is a cartel type book. As rough as this book was it was a really great book.
This book was the hardest one I have ever read it’s about a woman who was bought from a sex trade. She was raped and beat from age 13. She was housed and protected by a man that was doing a favor for another. Everything goes side ways and he falls for her hard. This book has trigger warnings death,rape, sex trafficking, beating, and it is a cartel type book. As rough as this book was it was a really great book.
August 14, 2025
I read this in one sitting. Started at 8 am & finished at 9:30 pm. I was so fucking hooked on this storyline and the characters. I’m a sucker for bad hard tattooed mafia/cartel men going soft for a broken traumatized girl. IT DOES IT FOR ME EVERYTIME. I never wanted this to end. I do wish we had better spicy scenes. I do understand the slow burn was needed cause of her trauma but I wanted more in depth spicy scenes. I still loved this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2021
Anna is still recovering from her time as a slave and whore. Rafael is looking after her as a favor to a friend. He never planned to fall for this woman but she ends up stealing his heart. Anna feels safe with Rafael. This is their story and how they got together. You get three books in this boxed set.
November 15, 2021
I loved this series. Of course, I thought Una should have minded her own damn business, even though it probably was beneficial for Anna to at least have a little time to herself in the long run. Plus, the trade at the very end was unsettling & honestly I could have done without it. However, I loved Anna & Rafe together & how she found her safe space in a cartel.
December 15, 2023
Amazong!!!
My hats off to this author. She did a phenomenal job of setting up the story line of sex trafficking. She had it perfect on how one would experience this atrocity and all of the mental struggles one would experience. Rafael was perfect on guiding Anna through the healing process. Peefect!Perfect!! Just perfect!!
My hats off to this author. She did a phenomenal job of setting up the story line of sex trafficking. She had it perfect on how one would experience this atrocity and all of the mental struggles one would experience. Rafael was perfect on guiding Anna through the healing process. Peefect!Perfect!! Just perfect!!
February 3, 2024
Emotional
Emotional is the only word I can think of to describe Anna and Rafe's story. The pain, the heartbreak, and the love. Anna has to overcome her past and they both have to overcome their fears before they can love each other. At times i was on edge and other, I was on tears.
Emotional is the only word I can think of to describe Anna and Rafe's story. The pain, the heartbreak, and the love. Anna has to overcome her past and they both have to overcome their fears before they can love each other. At times i was on edge and other, I was on tears.
August 20, 2024
ummm no
The book was good until he sent her away the first time. It’s like she had a whole personality transplant. Then the very ending was the reason it has such a low rating. I was gonna give it four stars because it was pretty good but what she did to those girls was just 100% not OK. There were so many other ways this could have been written and executed.
The book was good until he sent her away the first time. It’s like she had a whole personality transplant. Then the very ending was the reason it has such a low rating. I was gonna give it four stars because it was pretty good but what she did to those girls was just 100% not OK. There were so many other ways this could have been written and executed.
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