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Shadows of Chemistry #2
Collateral Damage
Tank
Improvise. Adapt. Overcome.
A concept every marine is taught to overcome any obstacle life throws at you. I made it my mission to do just that.
Except my way to prevail was to shut down and build impenetrable walls.
It worked.
Until it didn’t.
Until my life became a shitstorm I could never adapt to or overcome.
Until it took the most important person in my life from me.
Jess
I’ve always been on the outside of every relationship. Including the one with my parents.
Then I met Tank, and for the first time in my life, I had hope that I could belong.
Until I didn't.
Until he shut me out.
He said it was to protect me. To keep me away from the shadows.
Doesn’t he realize all he was doing was pushing me into the dark?
His job is to protect.
To save.
Everyone.
But us.
Improvise. Adapt. Overcome.
A concept every marine is taught to overcome any obstacle life throws at you. I made it my mission to do just that.
Except my way to prevail was to shut down and build impenetrable walls.
It worked.
Until it didn’t.
Until my life became a shitstorm I could never adapt to or overcome.
Until it took the most important person in my life from me.
Jess
I’ve always been on the outside of every relationship. Including the one with my parents.
Then I met Tank, and for the first time in my life, I had hope that I could belong.
Until I didn't.
Until he shut me out.
He said it was to protect me. To keep me away from the shadows.
Doesn’t he realize all he was doing was pushing me into the dark?
His job is to protect.
To save.
Everyone.
But us.
- GenresContemporary
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2022
4 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Ryleigh Sloan
18 books434 followersRyleigh Sloan is a romance author with a masters degree in being an indecisive control freak. Her favorite pastime is driving her friends crazy by writing multiple books at once.
Following the advice of established authors to read, read, read in order to hone one’s craft she does just that and engrosses herself in as many romance novels as she can get her hands on. Her bad habit of writing more than one book at a time carries over to her reading and she can be found reading, and listening to multiple titles at once and enjoying every moment.
Following the advice of established authors to read, read, read in order to hone one’s craft she does just that and engrosses herself in as many romance novels as she can get her hands on. Her bad habit of writing more than one book at a time carries over to her reading and she can be found reading, and listening to multiple titles at once and enjoying every moment.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 15, 2022
I received an advanced listener copy of the audio of this book.
I am a serious sucker for a romantic suspense but when you add in the military, it’s off the charts for me! I love how protective Tank is of Jess, even from the very beginning, of women in general. Jason Clarke was perfection as Tank and Stella Bloom as Jess was very relatable and steady. Rose Dioro’s parts were so heartbreaking. This story has serious heart. Very tragic yet somehow found it’s way to an HEA.
I am a serious sucker for a romantic suspense but when you add in the military, it’s off the charts for me! I love how protective Tank is of Jess, even from the very beginning, of women in general. Jason Clarke was perfection as Tank and Stella Bloom as Jess was very relatable and steady. Rose Dioro’s parts were so heartbreaking. This story has serious heart. Very tragic yet somehow found it’s way to an HEA.
May 17, 2022
Collateral Damage is a military romantic suspense featuring Tank as the hero. It can be read as a stand alone, but has characters in common with The Dark Side of Chemistry, and I definitely recommend listening to that first to get Tank’s full backstory. Jess is a perfect fit for him. She is a strong, independent woman who fights for what she needs. I loved everything about how they meet and fall for each other, but as much as they fit together his responsibilities and devastating losses in the military have him building up walls to protect people, but he ends up blocking them out. Be warned that this story will break your heart and it does go dark, but it will build it back up again with a HEA.
Jason Clarke is once again brilliant in his performance and broke my heart as he peeled back the layers of Tank as he brought us along this journey. Stella Bloom is also a wonderful narrator with a great performance in this story. Rose Dioro broke my heart and tore me apart with her performance in this one. That Diary…. Have Kleenex, but don’t pass up this story if you love military romantic suspense!
Jason Clarke is once again brilliant in his performance and broke my heart as he peeled back the layers of Tank as he brought us along this journey. Stella Bloom is also a wonderful narrator with a great performance in this story. Rose Dioro broke my heart and tore me apart with her performance in this one. That Diary…. Have Kleenex, but don’t pass up this story if you love military romantic suspense!
May 18, 2022
Collateral Damage by Ryleigh Sloan is heartbreaking and gorgeous at the same time. Collateral Damage follows the complicated love story of Tank and Jess. Both Tank and Jess have very tough backgrounds that somehow don't keep them from loving each other instantly and fiercely.
The narration crushed me. Stella Bloom and Jason Clarke were phenomenal as always. The show winner for me was Rose Dioro. Rose broke every little piece of my heart. Absolutely my favorite performance of hers to date.
I was honestly surprised at how much I loved this story. I am not usually a military hero kind of gal - But this story broke me so many times and piece by piece glued me back together again. If you love instant love that still needs work, adorable kids and strong characters - This is the book for you to fall in love with.
The narration crushed me. Stella Bloom and Jason Clarke were phenomenal as always. The show winner for me was Rose Dioro. Rose broke every little piece of my heart. Absolutely my favorite performance of hers to date.
I was honestly surprised at how much I loved this story. I am not usually a military hero kind of gal - But this story broke me so many times and piece by piece glued me back together again. If you love instant love that still needs work, adorable kids and strong characters - This is the book for you to fall in love with.
May 18, 2022
ALC review - Collateral Damage is a surprisingly emotional and tender military romance between an honorable but conflicted operative and a sweet heroine. Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom did a wonderful job with narrations, the troubled nature of the characters and the angst and tension between them as the plot progressed. Some parts were difficult to listen to but Ryleigh’s writing is elegant and soothed a lot of the harshness. I was not expecting to cry but i was a mess by the end of the book. It was the sweetest of HEA and so well deserved. These characters loved and lost and found each other again and it was wonderful listening to their story.
May 18, 2022
Well I think this story had it all!
There was drama, suspense and so much emotion.
Jess has a strength that I couldn't help but admire, she knew what she wanted and fought hard for it.
Tank is guarded and builds boundaries for good reason, my heart!
This book will put you through it but it's absolutely worth it.
I've also had chance to listen to the audio and wow! It takes the story to a whole other level, I thought I couldn't love them anymore but boy was I wrong. Flawless!!
There was drama, suspense and so much emotion.
Jess has a strength that I couldn't help but admire, she knew what she wanted and fought hard for it.
Tank is guarded and builds boundaries for good reason, my heart!
This book will put you through it but it's absolutely worth it.
I've also had chance to listen to the audio and wow! It takes the story to a whole other level, I thought I couldn't love them anymore but boy was I wrong. Flawless!!
June 3, 2022
**Audio Review**
Collateral Damage by Ryleigh Sloan was a military romance I didn't know I needed. I was so excited to listen to Tank and Jess' story. Their romance started off super steamy, and I loved getting all wrapped up in Tank and Jess' emotional journey to find their own HEA. I had the opportunity to read this book back in October, and the audio just gave so much life to these complex, vibrant characters.
This audiobook is narrated by Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom with Rose Dioro. Jason brings all his growly dominance in his performance of Tank. He does an amazing job portraying Tank's various emotional layers and displaying the challenges many marines face on a daily basis. Stella portrays Jess with a passionate fervor that you can't help but admire as she strives to understand, love, and peel back all Tank's layers while conquering her own obstacles. Both narrators portrayed Tank and Jess' undeniable chemistry perfectly. Rose narrates a special part of this story that will rip your heart out and is incredibly moving and haunting.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. If you love a military romance, with a hot protective Marine, a passionate and fierce female, covert ops action with suspenseful twists and turns, steamy times, angst and heartache, danger, devastation, cute kids, loyal friends, learning to love and trust, and a HEA that will make you tear up and leave you with all the deliciously good feels, then you will love this book. I am looking forward to more from Ryleigh Sloan.
Collateral Damage by Ryleigh Sloan was a military romance I didn't know I needed. I was so excited to listen to Tank and Jess' story. Their romance started off super steamy, and I loved getting all wrapped up in Tank and Jess' emotional journey to find their own HEA. I had the opportunity to read this book back in October, and the audio just gave so much life to these complex, vibrant characters.
This audiobook is narrated by Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom with Rose Dioro. Jason brings all his growly dominance in his performance of Tank. He does an amazing job portraying Tank's various emotional layers and displaying the challenges many marines face on a daily basis. Stella portrays Jess with a passionate fervor that you can't help but admire as she strives to understand, love, and peel back all Tank's layers while conquering her own obstacles. Both narrators portrayed Tank and Jess' undeniable chemistry perfectly. Rose narrates a special part of this story that will rip your heart out and is incredibly moving and haunting.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. If you love a military romance, with a hot protective Marine, a passionate and fierce female, covert ops action with suspenseful twists and turns, steamy times, angst and heartache, danger, devastation, cute kids, loyal friends, learning to love and trust, and a HEA that will make you tear up and leave you with all the deliciously good feels, then you will love this book. I am looking forward to more from Ryleigh Sloan.
July 11, 2022
Collateral Damage
By: Ryleigh Sloan
Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Stella Bloom, Rose Dioro
A sister story to one of my favorite romantic suspense listens, The Dark Side of Chemistry, I could not wait to sink my teeth into this one. And it was worth the wait! After meeting Tank, I was looking forward to getting to know him better. Tank is a military man, through and through. Secret keeper, hard to get close to, he does enjoy the passions of a woman, and when approached by Jess, he takes his opportunity. Jess is a firecracker and a good fit for Tank. But will he give her a chance to break through his rough exterior? Ryleigh Sloan pens a suspenseful, sometimes dark story, full of secrets and passion. The look at the ops Tank has gone through is eye opening, horrific and will make you cringe. But the soul of the man and the way he loves is warm and cuddly. I was captivated by his missions, love the connection he shares with Jess, enjoy the camaraderie with Jensen, Trent and Skyla and find this kind of listen my thing. It keeps me engaged and excited as the story progresses and invests my heart in the outcome. Bravo Ryleigh, you have another winner!
Then she adds a stellar narration team to bring this to life. Jason Clarke is the broody, alpha Tank. He plays this character with all the aggression, and all the emotion like only he can do. Then Stella Bloom pops in and gives us a performance that we can easily relate to as Jess. Our hearts are feeling everything she is. And we can't forget the heartbreaking performance by Rose Dioro. Get the tissues ready for her! This is an amazing performance and listen not to be missed.
By: Ryleigh Sloan
Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Stella Bloom, Rose Dioro
A sister story to one of my favorite romantic suspense listens, The Dark Side of Chemistry, I could not wait to sink my teeth into this one. And it was worth the wait! After meeting Tank, I was looking forward to getting to know him better. Tank is a military man, through and through. Secret keeper, hard to get close to, he does enjoy the passions of a woman, and when approached by Jess, he takes his opportunity. Jess is a firecracker and a good fit for Tank. But will he give her a chance to break through his rough exterior? Ryleigh Sloan pens a suspenseful, sometimes dark story, full of secrets and passion. The look at the ops Tank has gone through is eye opening, horrific and will make you cringe. But the soul of the man and the way he loves is warm and cuddly. I was captivated by his missions, love the connection he shares with Jess, enjoy the camaraderie with Jensen, Trent and Skyla and find this kind of listen my thing. It keeps me engaged and excited as the story progresses and invests my heart in the outcome. Bravo Ryleigh, you have another winner!
Then she adds a stellar narration team to bring this to life. Jason Clarke is the broody, alpha Tank. He plays this character with all the aggression, and all the emotion like only he can do. Then Stella Bloom pops in and gives us a performance that we can easily relate to as Jess. Our hearts are feeling everything she is. And we can't forget the heartbreaking performance by Rose Dioro. Get the tissues ready for her! This is an amazing performance and listen not to be missed.
November 15, 2023
This book is an emotionally charged rollercoaster that left me breathless and utterly captivated from beginning to end. This gripping tale masterfully combines heart-wrenching moments with a powerful narrative, making it an unforgettable reading experience.
From the very first page, Sloan weaves a compelling story that delves deep into the complexities of love, loss, and resilience. The characters are exquisitely crafted, each one carrying a depth and authenticity that brings them to life. Their struggles and triumphs are portrayed with such raw emotion that it's impossible not to become deeply invested in their journeys.
The pacing is perfect, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat with unexpected twists and turns. Sloan skillfully balances intense, emotional scenes with moments of genuine warmth and humor, creating a dynamic and well-rounded narrative. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, adding an extra layer of depth to the story.
One of the highlights of "Collateral Damage" is Sloan's ability to explore difficult themes with sensitivity and grace. The book tackles profound topics such as healing, forgiveness, and the strength of the human spirit, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
The prose is beautifully crafted, with Sloan's lyrical writing style enhancing the emotional resonance of the story. The dialogue is authentic and engaging, making it easy to connect with the characters on a personal level.
In summary, "Collateral Damage" is a literary gem that deserves all the accolades it receives. Ryleigh Sloan has proven herself as a master storyteller, and this book is a testament to her talent. If you're looking for a gripping, emotionally charged read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, "Collateral Damage" is an absolute must-read. Five stars without a doubt!
From the very first page, Sloan weaves a compelling story that delves deep into the complexities of love, loss, and resilience. The characters are exquisitely crafted, each one carrying a depth and authenticity that brings them to life. Their struggles and triumphs are portrayed with such raw emotion that it's impossible not to become deeply invested in their journeys.
The pacing is perfect, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat with unexpected twists and turns. Sloan skillfully balances intense, emotional scenes with moments of genuine warmth and humor, creating a dynamic and well-rounded narrative. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, adding an extra layer of depth to the story.
One of the highlights of "Collateral Damage" is Sloan's ability to explore difficult themes with sensitivity and grace. The book tackles profound topics such as healing, forgiveness, and the strength of the human spirit, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
The prose is beautifully crafted, with Sloan's lyrical writing style enhancing the emotional resonance of the story. The dialogue is authentic and engaging, making it easy to connect with the characters on a personal level.
In summary, "Collateral Damage" is a literary gem that deserves all the accolades it receives. Ryleigh Sloan has proven herself as a master storyteller, and this book is a testament to her talent. If you're looking for a gripping, emotionally charged read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, "Collateral Damage" is an absolute must-read. Five stars without a doubt!
May 18, 2022
Whew! Steamy and engaging. This was my first story by Rayleigh Sloan, but I intend to seek out more. Thanks to Rose Dioro for turning me on to her!
So, if you are reading reviews, I presume you already know what the story is about. What you don't know (yet) is that Tank is going to melt your heart and Jess is just as strong as any marine. Just. Go. Listen!
I believe the blurb has a pretty clear trigger warning about sex trafficking, but I also think it should have a gentle warning for anyone sensitive to fertility issues and/or domestic violence.
Of course all three narrators are exceptionally talented voice actors, so the audio is perfection! I'm always confused by the way narrators get listed, so to clear it up... Jason Clark and Stella Bloom voice the main characters. Rose Dioro has only about one chapter, but you'll love hearing her break your heart with that special character.
I received an advanced listener copy, so my opinions are my own. I highly encourage you to read it for yourself as it is well worth the time!
Side note. As a listener, I was a little confused by some things that may be considered spoilerish, so fair warning if you continue scrolling down.
.
.
.
.
.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD
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.
.
.
.
I was so confused at the beginning when the story starts out about Tank and Skylah and serum testing. It started me off feeling like I'd missed Book 1 in a series.
Why skip 18 months in the middle?
Toward the end, I started feeling like the characters were following a plot script. Couldn't Tank have been so swayed by the Somali boy that he "changed his mind" THEN?
So, if you are reading reviews, I presume you already know what the story is about. What you don't know (yet) is that Tank is going to melt your heart and Jess is just as strong as any marine. Just. Go. Listen!
I believe the blurb has a pretty clear trigger warning about sex trafficking, but I also think it should have a gentle warning for anyone sensitive to fertility issues and/or domestic violence.
Of course all three narrators are exceptionally talented voice actors, so the audio is perfection! I'm always confused by the way narrators get listed, so to clear it up... Jason Clark and Stella Bloom voice the main characters. Rose Dioro has only about one chapter, but you'll love hearing her break your heart with that special character.
I received an advanced listener copy, so my opinions are my own. I highly encourage you to read it for yourself as it is well worth the time!
Side note. As a listener, I was a little confused by some things that may be considered spoilerish, so fair warning if you continue scrolling down.
.
.
.
.
.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD
.
.
.
.
.
I was so confused at the beginning when the story starts out about Tank and Skylah and serum testing. It started me off feeling like I'd missed Book 1 in a series.
Why skip 18 months in the middle?
Toward the end, I started feeling like the characters were following a plot script. Couldn't Tank have been so swayed by the Somali boy that he "changed his mind" THEN?
May 18, 2022
Ryleigh Sloan us my favorite author, hands down, and this book shows why. I think it may be her deepest and most important book to date, and it's amazing. I'm not usually an audiobook person, I prefer reading to hearing narrators interpret the voices, but this is an exception. Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom are perfect as Tank and Jess. Seriously, their narration adds so much to the story!
And then there's Rose Dioro. The part Ryleigh handed her has to be the most moving and difficult passage I've ever encountered in any book, and what she did with it is... just incredible. It's not easy to listen too, and I don't say that lightly. It wrecked me. But it's crucially important -- I don't say that lightly either.
Jess and Tank are amazing people, and perfect for each other. The way they have to face their challenges and eventually overcome them is beautifully and powerfully portrayed. Readers of Cliche will recognize Israel from that book (do check it out, if you haven't yet).
This is a story that needs to be heard, difficult as parts are. It's profound. It's brilliant. It is about love and strength and redemption; tragic in parts and so uplifting in others. Ryleigh Sloan manages to mix in heat and humor in a way that's just perfect. I've never encountered anything like it. You owe it to yourself to give it a listen.
And then there's Rose Dioro. The part Ryleigh handed her has to be the most moving and difficult passage I've ever encountered in any book, and what she did with it is... just incredible. It's not easy to listen too, and I don't say that lightly. It wrecked me. But it's crucially important -- I don't say that lightly either.
Jess and Tank are amazing people, and perfect for each other. The way they have to face their challenges and eventually overcome them is beautifully and powerfully portrayed. Readers of Cliche will recognize Israel from that book (do check it out, if you haven't yet).
This is a story that needs to be heard, difficult as parts are. It's profound. It's brilliant. It is about love and strength and redemption; tragic in parts and so uplifting in others. Ryleigh Sloan manages to mix in heat and humor in a way that's just perfect. I've never encountered anything like it. You owe it to yourself to give it a listen.
November 12, 2022
Collateral Damage By: Ryleigh Sloan
Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Stella Bloom, Rose Dioro
Rating 4 out of 5 stars:
I was suckered in about Tank due to reading the Dark side of Chemistry book. It isn’t necessary to read that book but it would be a bonus if you did read it. I love how it started his POV of the lab mess up and how to handle it with his best friend, Jensen. Overall, I love how Tank is overprotective about his best friend but furthermore, about his love with Jess. It did give a whole new meaning about being in the military, and how missions are quite important. It affects and discovers what things can let go and what can not let go. The heart is very crucial when rescuing someone from trouble. Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom did such a great job conveying emotions page after page. They gave performance of heartache, finding passion again, twists and turns of what could be as a couple. The most I got out of this book is how Rose Dioro performed and yes, it wreck me big time. She did such an fantastic job and give her an award, please!! Ryleigh just wrote another emotional military suspense romance. If you need an alpha-protector story, this is it!
Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Stella Bloom, Rose Dioro
Rating 4 out of 5 stars:
I was suckered in about Tank due to reading the Dark side of Chemistry book. It isn’t necessary to read that book but it would be a bonus if you did read it. I love how it started his POV of the lab mess up and how to handle it with his best friend, Jensen. Overall, I love how Tank is overprotective about his best friend but furthermore, about his love with Jess. It did give a whole new meaning about being in the military, and how missions are quite important. It affects and discovers what things can let go and what can not let go. The heart is very crucial when rescuing someone from trouble. Jason Clarke and Stella Bloom did such a great job conveying emotions page after page. They gave performance of heartache, finding passion again, twists and turns of what could be as a couple. The most I got out of this book is how Rose Dioro performed and yes, it wreck me big time. She did such an fantastic job and give her an award, please!! Ryleigh just wrote another emotional military suspense romance. If you need an alpha-protector story, this is it!
June 7, 2022
This review is based on the audiobook.
I love Military romance so I was excited to listen to this by a new to me author Ryleigh Sloan. She did not disappoint. The story was well written with some parts being difficult to get through just by nature of what was happening at that point. What made this even better was her choice of narrators. i could have listened to Jason Clarke narrate this on his own as he really brought Tank to life for me and even does a good female voice. He even had me in tears at a few points. Then Stella Bloom came in and prove just how great she is too. Then there is Rose Dioro who wrecked me with her part, her voice making you feel everything. The choice of narrators was on point and make me glad it was not a solo project. I will definitely be looking into more of Ryleigh Sloan's stories.
I love Military romance so I was excited to listen to this by a new to me author Ryleigh Sloan. She did not disappoint. The story was well written with some parts being difficult to get through just by nature of what was happening at that point. What made this even better was her choice of narrators. i could have listened to Jason Clarke narrate this on his own as he really brought Tank to life for me and even does a good female voice. He even had me in tears at a few points. Then Stella Bloom came in and prove just how great she is too. Then there is Rose Dioro who wrecked me with her part, her voice making you feel everything. The choice of narrators was on point and make me glad it was not a solo project. I will definitely be looking into more of Ryleigh Sloan's stories.
May 18, 2022
I've been longing for Tank's story, and Ryleigh Sloane told it with such emotion, connection, and feels plus swoon worthy steam that I'm gonna have to get the audiobook, too.
Military romance isn't normally on my radar, but the twist on it only made the story, and the romance, that much better.
Military romance isn't normally on my radar, but the twist on it only made the story, and the romance, that much better.
March 29, 2024
I loved this story so much! everything about it. Especially bringing light to the real life struggles of the safety of woman and children. Tank is definitely my favorite character and him and Jess are perfect for each other and that ending brought tears to my eyes!!!
May 19, 2022
Great read
This was a great read, I was really excited for Tank's book and it did not disappoint. Can't wait to see what comes next.
This was a great read, I was really excited for Tank's book and it did not disappoint. Can't wait to see what comes next.
December 26, 2023
Once again I was blown away by an awesome storyline. Really enjoyed this one.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews