3 1/3 Stars

I really enjoyed the fist book in this series The Insiders, where it all begins with Bailey, her dad and Kash. The characters acted their ages and yes, there was drama, but I liked the connections Bailey had with her siblings.

This book felt like it took a step back for the characters and they went into full high school drama mode. I still don’t really like Matt. He takes his outings with friends way to serious and doesn’t respect Bailey or Kash (IMO).

The Damaged is full of fillers, extra drama and a whirlwind open ending that will flow into the last book. I wanted more of the siblings together. I don’t know yet, if I’ll want to read the last book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I will never cease being amazed at how thoroughly engrossed I can become in the world’s Tijan creates. I was excited to get back into the world she introduced in The Insiders and learn more about Kashton Colello. The smoldering chemistry between Kash and Bailey has grown into a fiery blaze that makes me smile every time they are together. I loved how Kash made allowances he wouldn’t normally make to ensure Bailey’s happiness and how Bailey was able to settle when Kash was around. As hard as some of the scenes were to read, I appreciated how realistic Tijan was when detailing how the fallout from the events that occurred in The Insiders were still effecting Bailey. While this book kept the story moving forward, events in the past were allowed to continue impacting the characters the same way I was still feeling their impact. Additionally, I enjoyed seeing characters like Matt, Guy, Torie, and Tamara pop back up while also introducing new characters like Fitz, Erik, Scott, Connor, Melissa, and Liam for me to become attached to. Seeing the two parts of Bailey represented in the people she hung out with really illustrated how she was adjusting to her new life, including the issues she was having. And then there is that ending…September cannot come soon enough.

Picking up where the Insiders left off, the Damaged is all about Bailey and Kash's relationship. Bailey has started grad school and her relationship with Kash is public information making them front page news. Bailey is still struggling with the attempt on her life by Quinn and is seeking comfort by turning into herself. Kash is busy trying to protect Bailey from his grandfather while also maintaining their relationship. There is plenty of drama to go round in this book and I am here for it. Curious to see how this one ends.

The Damaged picks up right we're the Insiders left off. It's fast-paced, action-packed, and full of drama.
Bailey is adjusting to her new life; she has some insecurities that come with her current situation. But with all that's happened, she is determined to make it work. Bailey a genius, intellectual and that can scare some people away. She is open to sharing how she feels with some of her family members. Bailey went from being the only child to having siblings she adores.
Kash is all Alpha male; he will do anything for the people he loves, even kill. He's a businessman and high profile, so he needs to be alert and careful if he wants to protect the ones he loves.
We get to see a more intimate side of Kash and Bailey's relationship. It's a slow burn. The love they have for one another is so rare and unbreakable. I was very surprised by Matt's character, he's Bailey's brother, and he shares a side of himself that will surprise you.

I don't want to give anything away! Tijan has delivered another trilogy that you don't want to miss. I can't wait for book 3. It's going to be so much more than book 2!

I devour all things Tijan. Her books never fail to pull me in and hold me captivated throughout. This series is unlike anything I’ve read from her, and I love it. The characters, the moments, the connections everything is seamless and riveting. I blew through each book with lightening speed. Zipping through page after page unable to stop because it’s too freaking good.

Bailey must be one of my favorite heroines of hers. She’s brilliant and distinctive it’s one of the reasons I love reading Tijan so much her heroines are always something special. It gets so boring reading the same types of characters all the time. Especially female characters. I never have that problem with Tijan her characters are always exceptional and enticing. They reach into your heart and take up residence because they feel so real, so honest. She writes them with such sincerity that you feel like you could be friends with them in real life.

Kash is still a mystery that I want to unravel, with my teeth. I’m dying to know more about him and hopefully have more of his POV in the next book. You do get a little of his in this one and it’s wonderful to see what’s going on in his head. And what some of his feelings really are regarding Bailey. And what Tijan put did not disappoint. You could feel his love for her pour from the pages in his POV it was real and intense. I personally love duel POV for this reason. It gives you the chance to really see into the other characters mind and find out all the little nuances that you miss when it’s only one POV.

Tijan is a master at her craft, she never disappoints. Her stories have the ability to unravel you from the inside out in the best way. And slowly as the book progresses, she stitches you back up one page at a time until a piece of her book lives and breathes inside of you. I don’t know how many of her books I’ve reread, she’s always one of my go to author’s when I’m in a book funk and I don’t foresee that ever changing. If you’ve never read Tijan before you are seriously missing out.

Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Complimentary Copy

THE REVIEW FOR THE BOOK: The Damaged
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
AUTHOR: TIJAN
TROPE: contemporary romance, romantic suspense
TYPE: The Insiders Trilogy #2
POV: Dual POV
MY RATING: 5.0 Stars

The story picks up shortly where the first one left off. The world has discovered who Kash and Bailey really are. There is no more hiding for them. Kash’s grandfather is moving his chess pieces into position for his war against his grandson. Bailey is starting grad school while still trying to overcome and deal with the trauma that she suffered. Everything in their world is changing.

There is a lot to unwrap in the second book of The Insiders Trilogy. I’ll start off by saying that I enjoyed the second book in the series far more than the first book. I was so happy to see that Kash was given more POV’s than the first book. I think that given Bailey’s unique POV style, it was important to get his perspective on their relationship. I will say that majority of the story is told from Bailey’s POV.

As I was reading this story, I found that there wasn’t a lot of dialogue compared to internal monologue. A lot of the most intense scenes in the story are told from Bailey’s POV as she’s standing by watching. It almost feels as though she’s staging the set of a movie. I felt as though she was describing the characters body language and demeanor down to the most minute detail. I felt like it built up a lot of tension in the scenes. You never really knew how things were going to play out. The writing style can take some getting used to but once you’re immersed in the world Tijan has created, its intoxicating. It’s hard to describe.

The relationship between Bailey and Kash took center stage in the second book. I felt that there wasn’t enough spice in the food book and Tijan really made up for it with the second one. The smut scenes were intense without being overly graphic. There were even some scenes told from Kash’s POV. These are two people who are utterly obsessed with one another and need to be in physical contact in order to stay anchored to their reality. It was intense and I wouldn’t change a thing about it.

The book does end on a cliffhanger. I don’t know what’s in store for Kash and Bailey. I feel like things are only going to get more intense. I worry about them. I have faith that they’ll get through anything but book three is going to be rough.

I was provided an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

I think we can just say that I am addicted to Tijan's books and I've yet to find one that I just couldn't put down. The second book of the Insiders Trilogy was no exception to this. Tijan has a way of creating such tension and connection between low interests that you just become so invested in them to borderline page turning obsession.

Being a second book in a series it does have some filler and further plot development and of course....the dreaded cliffhanger. But if you loved book 1 you will surly love book 2 as well because it did not disappoint!

I can't wait to see what will happen in the next installment of this series!

Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me a copy of an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review!

3.5 Stars
Damaged was the typical second book with the development of relationships and plot, the building up of the final book, and a bit of filler. The filler consisted of the wild and rather nasty shenanigans by Matt and his friends and a flurry of characters being introduced into the story. It was also a mixture of sometimes random interferences by the main villain (Kash's grandfather,) Bailey’s parents, as well as Kash’s billionaire machinations. While not hard to follow, the story cohesion was lacking at times. The ending was good. There was just some silly stuff to wade through in order to get to it.

In the end, this is a completely over-the-top story of rich, entitled twenty-somethings with mommy and daddy issues. I knew this going in and yet, I can devour these books in no time flat. Like the first book, the author has a writing style that is swiftly paced with a staccato beat that moves the story along quickly. She's also great with details, even though this one could benefit from some paring down. I also like the heroine. Always a plus.

This story picks up shorty after book one (The Insider) ends. You can probably get away without having read that book, but you will miss much of the dynamics between the characters and some of the back story. You get some general info (of the events that took place then and the people, but thats about it.) That book was more about Bailey (the Heroine) and her discovering some secrets and starting a new life (of course there was a lot more to that story.) This book is also all about Bailey, but there's so much more going on around her. She's just the common denominator. This book is action packed and filled with twists and turns. It also has a surprise cliffhanger ending. There are highs and lows. It's not a mafia book, but there are some mafia-like vibes. It's written primarily from her POV, but there are also some chapters written from Kash's (Bailey's powerful boyfriend/protector) POV as well. It is intriguing and keeps you glued to the pages. It has a dark edge to it, but there are some lighter moments. It's an intense read, that's for sure. There is a lot of talk about sex, but the act itself is mostly behind closed doors. I mentioned the cliffhanger, so this story isn't complete and you will definitely want to read the final book in the trilogy to see how it all ends. (There's really no way to try to predict that.)

*I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley.

Holy Cliffhanger! There is so much delicious drama to be lapped up in The Damaged and I am here for every second of it. Bailey and Kash’s relationship has grown so solid that it has become the backbone of the story, with them working together as a unit to fight against the drama instead of being the drama themselves. Bailey and Kash have a lot to work through, with their family, school, friends, work, and social circles, but their love is what makes them strong. After that amazing cliffhanger, I can’t wait to pick up book 3.

Honestly, I was disappointed in this sequel, I loved the first book, it majorly exceeded expectations, and this just felt like a flop.

There was no direction or real plot, just a bunch of scenes haphazardly put together. Kash felt more like a plot device than a part of the story.

Not sure that I'll end up reading the 3rd book.

*Thank you to the publisher for this eARC.

Damaged book 2 in The Insiders series by Tijan is phenomenal. It was truly an amazing follow up to The Insiders.
Something I’ve learned from being an avid Tijan reader and fan is when she does series there isn’t one book in them that lags or gives you the feeling of “ I can’t believe I was looking forward to this.” She always makes you have the feels and takes you on a journey with her characters and words written.
In The Damaged we get to pick up where Kash and Bailey left off. We learn more about Kash and his past in this book. We learn how everyone is doing and living with the fallout from the last book. And as much as I feel like I learned in this book I still feel like there is so much more that is gonna be explained in the last book and I am so looking forward to that. I will literally be sitting on pins and needles waiting for the third book bc after the ending in this book I need to know what happens. I do not get shocked much in books and Tijan has shook me.
Non RH
Book 2 of 3
Highly recommended.

What a great book 2! Full of drama and suspense. Love the dynamics of Kash and Bailey. Great set of secondary characters, I’m even starting to like Matt. Can’t wait to see where chase plays in to the this. ARC provided by Netgalley, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Damaged by Tijan, published bySt. Martin's Press, is the second book in the Insiders Trilogy. It is not a stand-alone. I recommend to read the books in order. The previous book is The Insiders, the introduction to Bailey and Kash's story.
The second book picks up where the previous was left off.
Kash and Bailey are together, in love. Bailey is happy she found love, a family. And Kash will do everything to protect her.
I fell in insta-love while reading the first book and couldn't wait for this second one. But oh my, this is just more. More drama, more secrets, suspenseful from start til the last page with layered charaters and storyline. A story full of unexpected twists and turns, unputdownable. A read in one sitting book. My poor heart has now to wait for the conclusion.

I have no words. That ending I did not see coming, my heart hurts! And that call with Kash's grandfather 😱🤯. Honestly not sure how I’m going to survive until the next book. I need more Kash and Bailey in my life. 🥵🖤

Book 1 was good but I wanted so much more, well book 2 delivered!!! I really like Bailey but not gonna lie Kash stole the show for me here. He's swoon-worthy. He's this super rich, super smart, bad ass man. People are afraid of him. But he's always there for Bailey - through all the drama she's facing.

Bailey has been through a lot and although she's genius level smart and strong, it was nice to see her be real and "break" a little. I loved seeing the moments of her coming into her own power and fighting back. I cannot wait for the next book! AHHHH 😬

Story continues from The Insiders.
Now everyone knows about Bailey and Kashon and they are in more danger than before. Kash's grandfather is constantly threatening Bailey to get to Kash. and Kash will do anything to keep Bailey safe but it won't be easy when everyone seems to have an agenda against them.
Bailey and Kash's love is stronger and steamier than before and being tested by so many. Bailey seems immature at times but she will come to her senses and her life in college plays bigger role than the first one.
Once you start, you can't put it down and it ends with more twist then before.. I can't wait to get into next one. Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin for ARC. I really enjoyed reading this one.

4.5/5.0

My goodness what a ride! This story is instantly addictive and immediately riveting. It picks up right where the first book, "The Insiders" left off so I would strongly recommend reading that one first in order to understand all the nuances and background that is so important. In this installment, Kash and Bailey's relationship solidifies and becomes a thing of true beauty. They are one, as they fight the world to stay together. That's a tall order considering Kash's grandfather decides to come at them with a vengeance. There are twists and turns one can never predict. And there is emotion and love one can never dismiss. Anyone who loves nail-biting suspense and mystery mixed with heart-stopping, sigh-worthy relationships that have both depth and nuance, this is truly the best of the best!

The only downside is the HUGE cliffhanger ending. The climax is a big one with jaw-dropping repercussions then.... the end. So, be forewarned and prepared.

Team Batt!

The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚🖤💜❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌎🌍🌏🌎🌏
Character development: 😳🤬😏🤓☺️

The heroine: Bailey Hayes - She was nearly kidnapped a few months back and came to live at the estate of her father Peter Francis. She got to know her three siblings Matt, Seraphina, and Cyclone who she adores. She also got to know Kash who is now her boyfriend.

The Hero(es): Kashton Colello - He is the 9th richest man in the world due to his own business savvy and the fact that his father was partners with Peter Francis in building a tech empire, plus the fact that his mother was great at making money and owned shares in a bunch of growing companies. Kash was raised with the Francis family after his parents were murdered by his Grandfather Calhoun Bastian who is also one of the richest men in the world but is affiliated with the mafia and other underground business and who wants Kash to follow his footsteps.

The Story: Kash and Bailey are in love but everything is not smooth sailing at this point. Bailey is trying to get over nearly being Kidnapped and murdered a second time, this time by her father’s wife Quinn and the team she hired. Though Quinn is out of the picture now, Bailey has some PTSD which isn’t helped by the fact that Quinn’s lookalike sister is now at the estate and looking after Bailey’s younger siblings. That and the fact that Calhoun Bastian keeps showing up unexpectedly.

This book was every bit as exciting as The Insiders and the romance between Kash and Bailey was totally awesome. I loved that we got Kash’s POV as well as Bailey’s. It is always nice to see the thoughts and feelings of the Hero and Kash is every bit the Hero for Bailey. And the supporting characters rocked in this book as well. Bailey’s entire family were great, especially her brother Matt.

I whispered, “Team Batt?”
My brother gave me another dark look, a wicked gleam, and I shouldn’t have liked how he flashed a triumphant grin, but I was feeling everything he just said.
He gave me an approving nod. “Oh yeah. Team Batt.” He held out his hand.
I wasn’t sure what to do with it, so I reached out, opened it, and shook it.
A funny look was on his face, but then he nodded and pulled his hand free. “Okay. I was going with the fist bump. A sibling handshake works, too.” He raised an eyebrow. “We’re doing this?”
We were doing this.

Other great characters were Matt’ friends Tony, Chester and Guy, Bailey’s friends Torie and Tam as well as her graduate school friends Melissa, Liam and Hoda. All of the security guards, including Fitz, Scott and Erik. Bailey’s Mom Chrissy and Dad Peter. There were quite a few villains in this one as well, including Quinn, Calhoun, Victoria and her two girls Fleur and Cedar. It all made for quite an exciting read. I hope Matt gets his own story at some point because he is quite a character.

The ending was chilling and it was a major cliffhanger. Much different than I expected, but it starts to set up the next book which I can’t wait for.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.

The Damaged is the second book in the Insiders series by Tijan. I absolutely devoured book one, like I always do with this author, and after the ending of book one I was highly anticipating The Damaged and it do not disappoint.

No longer an Outsider Bailey has a family and love that she never could have imagined. While Kash who is used to living into he shadows will do anything to protect his family and his woman.

This one is going to be short and sweet because of it being book two I don’t want to give anything away.

Like always with a book from Tijan, The Damaged was action packed and had me glued to the pages the whole way through. I still absolutely love the plot and story for this series. There are aspects that I’ve personally never read about before. I loved the romance, the side characters, and the story itself. And as always I loved Tijans’ writing. It is always so easy to get into and follow.

Very much enjoyed The Damaged. It was hard to put down and a must read if you loved book one.

*Thank you so much to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. *

3.5 Stars

The Damaged was a good read overall. I enjoyed the tension and drama. The introduction of new characters and a new setting for Bailey at school brought a lot of interesting dynamics to the read. I didn't think there was nearly enough interaction between Kash and Bailey. It was a whole lot of Bailey left to fend for herself and try to figure things out with minimal information. I enjoyed the bond that Matt and Bailey continued to build on as new found siblings. They evened each other out well in this story.

This read had a ton of filler, which is pretty typical of the second book in a trilogy. I just craved something more. For a story line with so much chaos and deception and so many webs already have been spun, there wasn't enough going on in this one.

That ending I did not see coming! I thought it was an incredible cliffhanger for the story.