The perfect contemporary romance with an edge. This book was very intriguing to say the least. The unspoken love at first sight between the two characters drew me in and had me turning the page to find out where would they end up next.

The MMC, Kincaid-Caid- is a mysteriously powerful Alpha male who happens to stumble upon the purest and softest form of love he could ever imagine. He finds himself in a constant battle to prove himself and make reassurances in lieu of the trust he has repeatedly requested. He loves without conditions and his love has no bounds when it comes to protecting the people he care for the most.

Nari, the FMC, is a lost and lonely soul who has only had herself to look out for and no one to depend on. Nari has difficulties getting close to people and trusting those around her until she finds herself possibly falling in love for the first time which challenges her trust issues.

This story was a slow build of trust, betrayal and deceit. The classic case of whodunit laced through the story kept me on the edge of my seat along with the cliffhanger at the end. I am eager to see how the characters build and grow as the story continues and how Nari's cousin plays more into the story.

Great story and strong writing style by K.C. Mills. I am excited for part 2 and I want it now!

My one and only question: Where is Part 2? My feelings are hurt lol.
Nari had it rough her entire life by barely getting by, growing up in the system, and being abandoned by her family and her trifling cousin didn't make her adult life any better. Telling someone as soon as they walk into their apartment, "We have to be out by 5 pm today," is crazy. 😮 I wanted some payback for Shayla because she was the absolute worst. Whatever happened to her??

Nari is homeless and Kincaid Akel set his eyes on her but he's already engaged. Wow! Messy. Kincaid is your billionaire mafia boss, "touch her and die," "My wife," kind of man. If you love that energy, you'll absolutely love him and his energy. I enjoyed him but my girl Nari felt like she wasn't worthy of the new life she has been thrown into.

These two stayed in their heads and I needed them to COMMUNICATE. 🗣️🗣️ I can almost understand it from Nari, her life experiences and young age of 24 played a part in the way she thought about herself, her life, and her worthiness at times. Kincaid was 31 and had much more life experiences because he was born into The Families and was set to become the head of operations from birth. That silver spoon? He's used to it. His is gold. And he gives it all to Nari.

I can come to my own conclusion about the voicemail at the end, but to end on a cliffhanger with no part two was such a gut punch for me. I found myself searching for part 2 and falling short. I really hope this series continues because there are new family members we have been introduced to that we know nothing about and a relationship on the line because of a lie.
✨He Falls First & Hard
✨Arranged Marriage
✨Cliffhanger 🫠

Thank you Black Odyssey Media and NetGalley for a copy of this ARC for my honest review.

You Could Do Damage did JUST that….damage…because the ending though….talk about on edge!

This book was definitely a test of loyalty, power, and money. The main characters could not have been more of opposites and that is what made it hard for me to connect to the story at first. When the terms of their arranged marriage were null and void I expected more from the MMC. I personally felt the build up of the characters was heavy in the beginning and then the plot took over. I would have liked to see more depth and inner dialogue from the MMC outside of his “job” so that the end could have been a little less abrupt.

Overall, if you enjoy a good drama with a plot twist or two it is worth the read.

Thank you Black Odyssey Media and Netgalley for this digital ARC!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Pub Date:2/25/25

I was expecting to enjoy this book much more than I did. While the way the story unfolded was interesting, something was missing for me. I wished we had seen more depth from the main characters.

The story starts with an arranged marriage that both characters could potentially benefit from, and as it progresses, they begin to acknowledge their feelings. I felt like everything was coming together, but then toward the end, there’s a miscommunication that I wish had been addressed, rather than left for the second book.
Despite this, I’m still curious about the next book and how everything will play out. After that cliffhanger, I need answers!

Thank you, NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media, for this digital ARC. 

You Could Do Damage
Rating: 3⭐️
Pub Date: February 25, 2025

*You Could Do Damage* is a sizzling, high-stakes romance that had me hooked from the start, but it was around the 75% mark when things really took off. The moment a shooting claimed three lives and forced Kincaid to step into his role as ruler of the Five Families, my heart dropped. I didn’t see it coming, and I absolutely loved it. Books that hit me with unexpected twists and make me react like that? Chef’s kiss.

The characters were interesting, and while the story primarily focused on Nari and Kincaid, I appreciated how we got glimpses of the side characters in a way that felt natural. Alisha’s story about her past with Darius was a moment I adored--the retelling of Darius walking in and delivering on the warning he gave Ty...chills. I do wish we had gotten a little more from Nari’s cousin, Shayla. She’s a character that intrigued me from the start, but after Chapter 1, she disappeared from the story—though, honestly, it made sense. Shayla used Nari, took her money, and cut ties when she no longer had a need for her, which felt fitting for who she was. The way Nari reflects on their relationship—“I knew from the day we met that she would take more than she would give”—hit hard. It perfectly captured the complicated nature of holding onto someone who treats you like an afterthought simply because they're all you have.

This book is all about love and power. Nari’s background in foster care wasn’t portrayed as overly traumatic, but it left her with a sense of loneliness that resonated deeply. Even in good situations, she felt unseen and unloved, which explains why she jumped at the chance to move in with Shayla, despite knowing she was being used. K.C. Mills weaves in one of my least favorite tropes—an age gap—but I have to admit, it worked here. Kincaid, being about seven years older, acknowledges Nari’s youth and the ways her past influences how she approaches relationships. His patience with her fears, combined with his steady insistence that she not hide from him, made their dynamic compelling. One thing I loved about Nari early on was how direct she was—she didn’t dance around things, always getting straight to the point, like when she asked Kincaid, “So we're back to the main point. Why am I here?” However, after they were married, I felt like she lost a bit of that edge, retreating into herself at times. But Kincaid, ever observant, never let her stay hidden for too long. He constantly pulled her out, asking her to be honest with him, which added a nice layer of emotional depth to their relationship.

One of my favorite aspects of the story was how Nari was embraced by Kincaid’s family, especially his mother. After suffering two miscarriages, both girls, his mom always knew her daughter would have to come from her son. I LOVE a mother who doesn’t coddle her son, and Kincaid’s mom was exactly that. When he slipped up—an honest mistake, but a mistake nonetheless—she held him accountable and pushed him to make things right.

K.C. Mills’ writing style made this story flow effortlessly, and the pacing was just right. The time jumps—whether it was a few days, weeks, or a month—kept things moving without dragging out unnecessary details. Overall, *You Could Do Damage* is a solid read that I’d definitely recommend, and while it leaves us with a "to be continued," it’s not a frustrating cliffhanger—just enough to leave me excited for the next installment!

Other things I loved? Nari’s resilience. She’s had it tough, but she’s not looking for handouts. One of her lines that stuck with me was: “I appreciate it, Joey, but we’re not really friends, are we? I work here, and so do you, which is the sum total of our affiliation. Anything you do for me will feel like charity. I also promised I would never owe anybody anything. I have to stick to that because it’s all I have.” And then there’s Kincaid—so intriguing. I loved how both he and Nari spent months just "observing" each other before ever speaking, quietly taking note of the other’s presence. The way Nari referred to him as "Recluse," "Mr. International," and "Boss" had me grinning. Their pull toward each other was undeniable, and I appreciated how direct Nari was—she didn’t dance around things but got straight to the point, which made their dynamic even more fun to watch unfold.

Some standout scenes? The banter between “Mr. International” and Nari—her quick wit had Kincaid thoroughly entertained. And the introduction of Aila and Nari at lunch? Iconic. Nari went toe-to-toe with her without batting an eye, "I guess we're both at a loss then. I didn't take my husband for the type to be attracted to weak women." And then when when Kincaid tried reassuring her that she would never have to fight over him...her response... “And I won't. That was child's play. You’ll know when my claws come out because I won’t stop until there’s blood,” was delivered with a smile but no warmth. Kincaid, of course, was eating it up, thrilled to see Nari could hold her own.

*You Could Do Damage* delivers a captivating blend of romance, intrigue, and power plays, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!!!

A Captivating Tale of Love and Trust

Nari’s life takes an unexpected turn when she agrees to a marriage of convenience with the mysterious Kincaid Akel. What begins as a business deal quickly becomes a story of love, trust, and resilience as Kincaid fights for her heart while building his empire. With enemies on all sides, their bond is tested, and Nari must learn to open her heart and trust someone else.

K.C. Mills delivers an emotional roller coaster filled with passion, suspense, and inspiring growth. Originally self-published, this novel’s move to traditional publishing highlights Mills’ talent. A must-read for romance fans, and I can’t wait for the next book!

KC Mills delivers a captivating blend of romance, danger, and spice in *You Could Do Damage*, a story that pulls you into a world of power, passion, and peril.

The story follows Kincaid "Caid," a cocky, mob-like boss who seemingly has it all—money, power, and access. In the middle of sealing a high-stakes marriage alliance to strengthen his empire, his world shifts when he sets eyes on Nari. A young, beautiful loner struggling to make ends meet, Nari is working at a club just to survive. Caid’s instincts immediately push him to protect her, and their connection only intensifies as he realizes that his current path could weaken his power instead of solidifying it.

What follows is an arranged marriage that sparks with tension, intrigue, and a love that becomes dangerously consuming. Caid’s love is dark, possessive, and deeply addicting, and while Nari tries to navigate this unfamiliar and treacherous new world, their chemistry grows undeniably stronger. The spicy scenes? *Giving* exactly what they need to give—sensual, intense, and brimming with energy.

The plot keeps you hooked, blending high-stakes drama with moments of vulnerability between the characters. The cliffhanger ending will leave you breathless, as Nari finds herself in the middle of a dangerous war, forced to make the ultimate choice: trust her husband or run.

KC Mills masterfully crafts a story that’s equal parts thrilling and seductive, with characters that you can’t help but root for, even when their world feels like it’s on the verge of collapse. If you love a dark, possessive hero, a fierce yet vulnerable heroine, and plenty of spice, *You Could Do Damage* is an absolute must-read.

Thank you, NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I can’t wait to see how Nari and Caid’s story unfolds in the next book! 🌶️✨

Okkkkkkkk Kincaid, I see you! 👀

It was a slow burn but i definitely was entertained by the storyline.

Kincaid wasn’t going to stop until he got what he wanted and that was Nari to be his wife!
It was an arranged marriage but once the feelings got involved, all of that was out of the equation.

I had some issues with Nari a few times, I wanted her to speak up and have a backbone. Just because a man has the money and power doesn’t mean he has to control everything. You can speak up. Period!

The communication needed to be stronger between the two. They both are stubborn.

Now I’m just very upset at the end.
Hate waiting for a book 2. Ugh 😩

Thank you NetGalley and Black Odyssey for the arc in exchange of my honest opinion

I enjoyed You Could Do Damage. It was such an emotional read. The characters had me cheering them on throughout the whole book. Absolutely love the romance. I couldn't put the book down! This book is amazing!

This wasn’t my favorite KC Mills book now normally I’m going to eat up whatever this lady writes but this one just didn’t do it for me . I understood Nari was poor and came from humble beginnings I didn’t need her to remind me every other page and Kincaid just wasn’t as strong as some of the other mafia men that KC has written all in all the book was good just not my favorite

I finally found a slow burn that I enjoyed. Kincaid has been added to the book boyfriend roster. He is such an alpha male who is giving BDE. A wealthy man with a commanding energy that stands on business about his woman, yeah sign me up. I love how he gave Nari a better hand than she was delt. No one does flawed characters better than K.C. Mills. The spice was spot on, and I am so excited to read book 2.

OMG This was soooo GOODT! I'm not even sure where to start with this book review! Firstly, thank you to Netgalley and BlackOdsessy for providing this e-ARC. I literally inhaled this book over two days and every moment was enticing.

Kincaid is sort of like a Black, mafia, high ranking man who lives a billionaire lifestyle oscillating between legit and illegal jobs. He is a STRONG male lead and oh so dreamy. He definitely gives "Don't touch my wife," and "I will literally kill for her," vibes. While Nair is a struggling young lady, who happens upon the contract/job of a lifetime with Kincaid after their paths cross unintentionally. Nair is also a strong character and does not back down from Kincaid, even when he's so used to being the boss. I love their love story and them falling in love was so precious and intentional. Also, Kincaid's YEARNING for Nair - phew chef's kiss.

One thing that didn't necessarily work for me was the descriptions of the characters. I couldn't really picture them in my head, so I kinda improvised the character descriptions.

*****SPOILERS BELOW******

The only thing I did not like was the HOLY CLIFFHANGER! I have so much to say about that! Like Nair knows good and well that Caid would never lie to her and why would she believe this random woman who came out of nowhere?! Like I would say it would've been more believable if it came from Alia! Gosh! They better figure it out in part two - which i need to read IMMEDIATELY!!

I truly enjoyed this book! I usually am not a fan of the arranged, “do me a favor” marriage trope but this was done really well!! I don’t know why I was surprised because it’s K.C. Mills so like duh of course it was gonna slap. She just has a way of bringing you into the story and engrossing you in the lives of these characters and their journey. Couldn’t put it down.

You Could Do Damage follows Nari & Kincaid as they navigate the ups and downs of married life & life of the under world. Kincaid is a boss in his own right, and he comes across Nari and is immediately enthralled. They ended up getting into an arranged marriage to best suit the both of them. However, everything isn’t always sweet.

This was a good story and I’m ready for what comes next.

K.C. mills does not miss! I enjoyed every bit of this book. It was a definite page turner for me. I can’t wait to get the physical copy once it comes out.

YOU COULD DO DAMAGE? Yes they both did damage.

3,5⭐️ for me

It’s actually one of my first ARCs. Big thanks to NetGalley, Black Odyssey, and KC Mills for the book 🫶🏾!”

“This is my second time reading a KC Mills book. I really enjoyed Shadows and Whispers, so when I saw this one, I didn’t hesitate. Ask and you shall receive—and I did! This book was a rollercoaster ride. I sneaked a peek at the reviews on Goodreads, and they weren’t quite what I expected, especially knowing how talented KC is as a writer. But I decided to push through, and I’m glad I did.”

Now, back to the book! It’s a marriage of convenience trope (one of my absolute favorites). For me, this story shows two people who agreed to a deal but found themselves entangled in their personal issues. The chemistry between them? Unmatched. But this book teaches you that love isn’t enough if you don’t deal with the baggage you’re carrying.

Nari was young, with a heavy past, and being exposed to this kind of life? Honestly, I don’t think I could have done better in her shoes. She was still processing, and it’s terrifying to receive something unfamiliar like love. On the other hand, Kincaid loved her with every fiber of his being. That man was ready to give her the world, but I think he could’ve loosened up a bit. Too much control isn’t always a good thing.

What annoyed me, though, was the miscommunication between them. Like, be for real : y’all are grown. Address the issues properly and move forward! I also wish we had more details about Kincaid’s family. There were hints, but I wanted more depth. Maybe we’ll get that in the second book.

And that cliffhanger at the end? Jesus Christ! Miss KC better give us the second book soon because whewwww!

Let me start by saying that this is my first time reading a book by this author, and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! I absolutely adored Nari and the undeniable charisma that Kincaid exudes. The author truly captures the essence of his character in a way that is both captivating and engaging. It’s like the pages were screaming big D energy !!!! I appreciated that Nari was not portrayed as a pushover, but rather as a strong and independent woman with her own set of boundaries and morals. It was truly refreshing to see a "damsel in distress" who still maintained her strength and agency.
I found myself completely invested in their story, rooting for them every step of the way. The only reason I am giving this book 4 out of 5 stars is because it ends on a cliffhanger, leaving me eagerly anticipating a potential sequel. If you are in search of a well-written urban fiction romance, then this book is definitely for you. I cannot wait to see what’s next with my girl Nari in the next book !

Thanks for the ARC. I am an avid reader and a big fan of K. C. Mills.

As such, I knew from page 1 that I had read this book before. I’ve read both books one and two and really enjoyed both.

The book progresses slowly which the author alludes to but I found it frustrating because there are all these conversations & feelings discussed in the characters heads which made it even slower. Like don’t tell me show me. I’m a fan of KC Mills I always read her releases. This one is not a win for me though & the errors were ridiculous like you’d think at this point in her career she’d do a better job with the editing like come on.

This is a spoiler-free review! This is an ARC review - You Could Do Damage will be available on February 25, 2025.

I would first like to thank NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The premise of this book reminds me so much of those vertical romance ads you see on TikTok, especially being an arranged marriage. This appeared to be a more dangerous version of Terms and Conditions by Lauren Asher, and since I ate that book up, I was intrigued to see how crime would come into play.

With dual perspective chapters, readers are able to go into Nari and Kincaid's minds, and of course with knowing how both parties feel, we as readers form our own opinions on how things were handled by the characters. I would have loved to see more of Nari's background - it felt as though we only had a glimpse of what she has been through, and I think it would have made some of the chapters more impactful if we had known more.

Kincaid is always truthful with Nari, and I found a great appreciation for that - often in mafia romances or crime romances, you see the male lead keep secrets from the female lead in an attempt to protect them, and yet Kincaid never lies to Nari. He is upfront about the arranged marriage from the beginning, and is always ready to answer any questions or negotiate terms with Nari when prompted. He is very protective of Nari, and there are some consequences to that in the sense that Nari learns more about what Kincaid truly deals with and how dangerous he can be when in particular situations.

Nari is too trusting to some and not trusting enough to others - this creates a more complex character study for her, but her overall sense as a character was that she is a little awkward and unsure of herself. Her past is muddled and there are a number of things that have impacted her sense of self, but she seems to trust Kincaid very quickly once they cross paths.

The ending felt very rushed and the betrayal seemed to come out of nowhere... I was not a fan of how the final two chapters were handled. I think the author was setting up some conflict between Nari and Kincaid, but it fell short in being well-developed. If this first installment was longer, then I could see the conflict carrying out in a more detailed fashion, but since it has been set up as a cliffhanger, readers are left with these two new revelations and no resolution until the sequel is available.