I enjoyed everything about this book but what else can i say coming from K.C. Mills. I love almost anything she puts out. My only complaint is the ending. I did not know it would end like that and I need more!! How can we get that and not have more to come. Now i am sad. But all in all it was a great read.

Thank You #NetGalley #BlackOdysseyMedia for this ARC!

I’ve had this #ARC on my “shelf” for a while and I don’t know why I’m just getting into it! But I absolutely LOVED it and couldn’t put it down when I started it! I loved the FMC Nari Collette, she was strong and didn’t care that the MMC Kincaid Akel was a millionaire, she stood her ground with him! Kincaid was intense, possessive, jealous, and had all of the BDE one character could have! He ran the city he worked in, but that wife had him wrapped around her finger, and she wanted nothing from him but love and attention!

Tropes you encounter in this book: Found Family, Arranged Marriage, Millionaire Romance, Underworld

*The book is described as a slow-burn but to me it wasn’t, it captured my attention from the beginning and never dragged like Slow Burns do sometimes! I enjoyed it all and can’t wait for the next book!
#YouCouldDoDamage

#BlackandBooked #blackandbookish #blackreadersofinstagram #BlackBookstagram #blackbookstagrammer #blackromancereader

So i loved the basis of this book… arranged marriage… give it to me. He falls first… GIVE IT TO MEEE. But i did feel like a lot of the characters were upsetting me. I need them to
Communicate, and they just didn’t. I did give Nari grace because she was young but i was getting so frustrated. But overall i did enjoy it. I HATE CLIFFHANGERS, if i knew it ended on a cliffhanger i would have waited for the second book before starting it.

This book was so good. K. C Mills did an amazing job. Kincaid was one to not play with, but Nari held her own. I truly need an update like tomorrow. So much happened that needs to be talked about but I don’t want to spoil anything just yet.

This was a 3.5 for me.

When I first read the synopsis it sounded interested and is what drew me to the book. Although the romance aspect of the book started off slow with Kincaid and Nari, the book itself was fast paced. it definitely was engaging and had me wanting to see what was going to happen next. I liked the instant connection between Kincaid and Nari from just one encounter how they were drawn to each other in a sense and could feel the energy of the other.. Even though their relationship started as an arranged marriage it became something real eve though Nari was a little slower with voicing that than Kincaid was. I appreciated how he tried to shield her from the dangerous parts of his world, was protective over here even with his family and always wanted to bring a smile to her face.

As far as his "underworld activities" I felt at times there was too much emphasis on him being a dangerous guy and people fearing him. There was one scene that was brought up in the book that went nowhere so it didn't feel necessary. There was also loose ends with his father's situation that I was hoping to find out what happened. Also, throughout the whole book, Kincaid never gave Nari a reason not to trust her, yet she let one voice message skew her impression of him without even talking to him or giving him a chance to explain himself. I would have appreciated more of a timeline as to when some of the events were happening because in one chapter they were one place and the next chapter picks up with Kincaid being somewhere else or doing something else so it didn't flow that well to me. sometimes. The way the book ended was a little abrupt too.

I understand that this is a re-release of a previous work and that there was a part two so hopefully that will be re-released as well and the loose ends will be closed. Overall I enjoyed aspects of the book but it didn't quite hit the way I hoped it would. Thank you to Black Odyssey Media Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

3 ⭐ is not a bad rating
This is a marriage of convenience read with FMC Nari and MMC Kincaid with some sprinkle of mafia kinds of stuff (both of which I love in books if It's done right)
The best part of this book is MMC is not manipulative. Normally in this kind of book, MMCs are manipulative or tell lies but Kincaid is not this kind of guy.
This starts a little slow, and in between, it feels a bit draggy in some parts. I wasn't expecting it to be Insta-lovey, so I was disappointed in that part. And it was really frustrating to watch them not communicate.
But overall it was an okay read.


Thank you so much, K.C. Mills, the publishers and Netgalley for providing this ARC

I loved this story up until I realized it was ending ugh!!! I really love the marriage of convenience trope so I was immediately interested when it was headed in that direction. I loved how Kincaid made it known that the marriage could be as real as they wanted it to be. He made sure to protect his wife above all else and didn’t hesitate to let people know she came first. I didn’t know that this was going to end on a cliffhanger so that made me a little mad but overall I enjoyed the story. I can’t wait for part 2 I need it to drop right after part 1 lmaooooo

I ARC read this for @authorkcmills and @iamblackodyssey and it was intriguing. You have Nari and Kincaid entering into arranged marriaged that set up by Kincaid. He was already in an arranged marriage but didn’t want to follow through with it. Nari was skeptical at first but she eventually was all in. Unfortunately for the new couple, they have opposition all around them including Nari herself. It doesn’t take much for her to pull away from her new husband.

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!!