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Gamer Girls #5
Collateral Damage
Even Heroes need to be saved sometimes.
Special Agent Jason Raige is a complete failure as an FBI agent, but it wasn't like they gave him a choice. He could serve his country or sit in a military prison. He chose to serve. Now, they have him on a case that's impossible to solve.
Still, he won't give up. Catching these bastards is the only way he knows to keep his own demons at bay. The doctors call it PTSD. He calls it living hell. Even worse, the only one he can talk to about it is his service dog.
Until he meets her.
All of this was supposed to be a boring side mission, and even speaking to her is crossing so many lines, but he doesn't care. Fuck the rules. Finally, he's found someone who makes him feel whole. He knows he should stay away, but this time, he can change the story. He can finally stop things before it's too late.
But doing so will break him.
And there's not a whole lot left to put back together.
The Gamer Girls series features strong women and the men who love them. Knowledge about gaming and/or gamer culture is not necessary to enjoy this story. Graphic language and situations that are suitable for a mature audience are included. COLLATERAL DAMAGE is a standalone novel which moves forward a larger story.
TRIGGER WARNING: discussions of gun violence, racism, cyber harassment, stalking, mental health issues, and more. This is a love story, but finding love isn't always easy.
Special Agent Jason Raige is a complete failure as an FBI agent, but it wasn't like they gave him a choice. He could serve his country or sit in a military prison. He chose to serve. Now, they have him on a case that's impossible to solve.
Still, he won't give up. Catching these bastards is the only way he knows to keep his own demons at bay. The doctors call it PTSD. He calls it living hell. Even worse, the only one he can talk to about it is his service dog.
Until he meets her.
All of this was supposed to be a boring side mission, and even speaking to her is crossing so many lines, but he doesn't care. Fuck the rules. Finally, he's found someone who makes him feel whole. He knows he should stay away, but this time, he can change the story. He can finally stop things before it's too late.
But doing so will break him.
And there's not a whole lot left to put back together.
The Gamer Girls series features strong women and the men who love them. Knowledge about gaming and/or gamer culture is not necessary to enjoy this story. Graphic language and situations that are suitable for a mature audience are included. COLLATERAL DAMAGE is a standalone novel which moves forward a larger story.
TRIGGER WARNING: discussions of gun violence, racism, cyber harassment, stalking, mental health issues, and more. This is a love story, but finding love isn't always easy.
487 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2020
229 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
September 29, 2024
Agent Raige, Jason, gets his own story.
In this book I got to know Jason better. His hang ups and career were described and how he got his PTSD. Also how he ended up in the FBI. His life was not easy and then he runs into Zara the girl who has her own issues and flaws. But their flaws just fit, which changes his life.
I love that we get a new Character in this book, Zara. She is not a Gamer Girl at the beginning of the book and I have another two books to see how this will develop.
I loved this book and all the books in the series. It's kind of hard to decide, who wins the my favorite trophy. At the moment I would go for Flawed, but the four other books are really close up like favorite!
Edit 2024:
I felt like rereading Gamer Girls. I really forgot, how long this books are but they are so worth it. I love this series.
In this book I got to know Jason better. His hang ups and career were described and how he got his PTSD. Also how he ended up in the FBI. His life was not easy and then he runs into Zara the girl who has her own issues and flaws. But their flaws just fit, which changes his life.
I love that we get a new Character in this book, Zara. She is not a Gamer Girl at the beginning of the book and I have another two books to see how this will develop.
I loved this book and all the books in the series. It's kind of hard to decide, who wins the my favorite trophy. At the moment I would go for Flawed, but the four other books are really close up like favorite!
Edit 2024:
I felt like rereading Gamer Girls. I really forgot, how long this books are but they are so worth it. I love this series.
June 14, 2020
Notes:
The series has great characters. I loved the way this one opened, but the story doesn't hold up under scrutiny. The case against the terrorist hackers, the way Jason & Zara fall in love & a ton of other details do not fit well.
I love the characters & concepts for the series but the details are not woven together well. Even the ending for this was not a real ending as much as it's a pause before the next book.
According to the note at the end of the story, there's one more book. Game Over will be focused around Rhaven. I can't see the whole case being wrapped up in one more book.
The series has great characters. I loved the way this one opened, but the story doesn't hold up under scrutiny. The case against the terrorist hackers, the way Jason & Zara fall in love & a ton of other details do not fit well.
I love the characters & concepts for the series but the details are not woven together well. Even the ending for this was not a real ending as much as it's a pause before the next book.
According to the note at the end of the story, there's one more book. Game Over will be focused around Rhaven. I can't see the whole case being wrapped up in one more book.
June 1, 2020
Zara and Cyn story!
We Finally get to see Jason aka Cyn and his story.
First of all I love Cyn, he has been through so much , has done so much and has gotten nothing in return. He really is my Hero.
Zara that girl , she is fierce , and what I love about her is that she isnt a 'Gamer Girl' she sucks at it but she loves it , not just because its fun but because she find friends and family.
Did I love the insta love between them ? yes and no , I think due both there anxiety and panic attacks they find someone who doesnt care about it all , and really looks further that just whats on the outside. On the no side , I wished Zara was a little less pushy in the sex department and after the reason why Cyn was scared , she backed off yet after it it all happened really fast. I can tell you that I will always think about this book the moment I read "Breathe , baby" I did really love both of them.
We also get to see the rest of the Family , I mean Riley she is still my favourite! and the talks between her and Cyn where , fun but also quite emotional , she really is his best friend. We get to see Murder more than ever! we get to see his point of view with whats going on with Kitty, we get to know a little more about Knock and his merry band! and while its not about Cyn, we get to see Riley telling off Kitty ( yes I do like Kitty but that girl needed a strong hard dubble kick in the ass)
I also loved the "gift" Cyn got her, I think it was really him!
All in All a great emotional rollercoaster and I cant wait for Rhaven's and the final GG book!
We Finally get to see Jason aka Cyn and his story.
First of all I love Cyn, he has been through so much , has done so much and has gotten nothing in return. He really is my Hero.
Zara that girl , she is fierce , and what I love about her is that she isnt a 'Gamer Girl' she sucks at it but she loves it , not just because its fun but because she find friends and family.
Did I love the insta love between them ? yes and no , I think due both there anxiety and panic attacks they find someone who doesnt care about it all , and really looks further that just whats on the outside. On the no side , I wished Zara was a little less pushy in the sex department and after the reason why Cyn was scared , she backed off yet after it it all happened really fast. I can tell you that I will always think about this book the moment I read "Breathe , baby" I did really love both of them.
We also get to see the rest of the Family , I mean Riley she is still my favourite! and the talks between her and Cyn where , fun but also quite emotional , she really is his best friend. We get to see Murder more than ever! we get to see his point of view with whats going on with Kitty, we get to know a little more about Knock and his merry band! and while its not about Cyn, we get to see Riley telling off Kitty ( yes I do like Kitty but that girl needed a strong hard dubble kick in the ass)
I also loved the "gift" Cyn got her, I think it was really him!
All in All a great emotional rollercoaster and I cant wait for Rhaven's and the final GG book!
June 8, 2020
She's like Midas
Everything Auryn touches is gold. But seriously, Auryn and Kitty are a dream team. This series has made me laugh, cry, stay up all night, and think about it even months after. EVERYONE should read their work.
Everything Auryn touches is gold. But seriously, Auryn and Kitty are a dream team. This series has made me laugh, cry, stay up all night, and think about it even months after. EVERYONE should read their work.
June 29, 2020
Love the serie and can't wait to read the next book :)
June 22, 2020
DNF @ 67%
For me there was something missing, that wouldn't allow me to invest myself with this couple's story. I'm not sure if it was the insta aspect, I think I might have also found them a bit soppy? I'm not even sure that's the right word to describe them. Anyway, I kept reading along because I had been looking forward to Cyn's story since Flawed, and I did think both character's background stories were really interesting.
I think I hit my breaking point when Kitty came into the story. I understand she has lived through a lot and has some reservations/fears about being in a relationship. Which I think fair enough, I respect that 100%, HOWEVER I hate how she treated Murder, she made him feel like absolute shit. There was one scene in the book that made me really mad and I just had to put it down and walk away
I low key started hating her. NO ONE should make you feel like you have to be half the person you are. If this were the other way around and a woman had to pretend to be half as smart, half as strong, half as whatever to keep a man happy we would be calling that relationship abusive. She doesn't want a relationship with him that's fine, but don't bite his head off because he wants to know how his child is doing. He has a right to know. And "her one big mistake" ... I could understand the anger if she was being forced to keep the baby, but Murder told her from the get go he would be there for her no matter what she chose, she said she wanted to keep the baby. I just got really mad at the way she was treating him and then the way she went off on Zara... and then how Zara started talking about Murder... she doesn't really know him either, certainly not to the point were she can explain how his mind works...
So basically I had to stop because I was getting annoyed by every character in the book. If I'm not mistaken there is one more book in the series, if it is Kitty's and Murder's I don't think I would be able to read it, if it's someone else's I would probably give it a go.
For me there was something missing, that wouldn't allow me to invest myself with this couple's story. I'm not sure if it was the insta aspect, I think I might have also found them a bit soppy? I'm not even sure that's the right word to describe them. Anyway, I kept reading along because I had been looking forward to Cyn's story since Flawed, and I did think both character's background stories were really interesting.
I think I hit my breaking point when Kitty came into the story. I understand she has lived through a lot and has some reservations/fears about being in a relationship. Which I think fair enough, I respect that 100%, HOWEVER I hate how she treated Murder, she made him feel like absolute shit. There was one scene in the book that made me really mad and I just had to put it down and walk away
"Kitty was on. I tried asking about the baby, and she kinda went off on me. [...] About getting up in her business. She said she finally got a chance to play and the first thing I do is want to talk about her one big mistake. But fuck, am I supposed to pretend like this didn't happen? [...] She's kinda got some baggage, you know? I mean, who doesn't, but Kitty's means that I have to work twice as hard to be half a man around her."
I low key started hating her. NO ONE should make you feel like you have to be half the person you are. If this were the other way around and a woman had to pretend to be half as smart, half as strong, half as whatever to keep a man happy we would be calling that relationship abusive. She doesn't want a relationship with him that's fine, but don't bite his head off because he wants to know how his child is doing. He has a right to know. And "her one big mistake" ... I could understand the anger if she was being forced to keep the baby, but Murder told her from the get go he would be there for her no matter what she chose, she said she wanted to keep the baby. I just got really mad at the way she was treating him and then the way she went off on Zara... and then how Zara started talking about Murder... she doesn't really know him either, certainly not to the point were she can explain how his mind works...
So basically I had to stop because I was getting annoyed by every character in the book. If I'm not mistaken there is one more book in the series, if it is Kitty's and Murder's I don't think I would be able to read it, if it's someone else's I would probably give it a go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2021
Guh! Where to start....I love this series, so VERY much. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it does. Since finding out that book 5 was going to be about Cynister, Jason Raige, I was just dying to learn more about our resident spook. and man, I was not disappointed. I absolutely love Cynister and all he stands for, the man has been thru some seriously hard times and still is and my heart just aches for him. He is so strong and not many would be able to do what he does - he is just so far out on that fine line between reality and just shutting it off, and yet he keeps trying.
Now, Zara. If there was ever two broken people that needed each other these two are it and together they bring out the best versions of each other and are just so supportive & loving. They've been thru a lot alone & together and I could never imagine those experiences. Auryn & Kitty did an amazing job making you feel. I was angry at the injustice that Zara, and Murder, go thru. I was sad by the pain and heart ache. I was in love with the relationship between Zara and Cynister. I felt every emotion and I devoured this book.
Cannot wait to see where book 6 will take us.
Now, Zara. If there was ever two broken people that needed each other these two are it and together they bring out the best versions of each other and are just so supportive & loving. They've been thru a lot alone & together and I could never imagine those experiences. Auryn & Kitty did an amazing job making you feel. I was angry at the injustice that Zara, and Murder, go thru. I was sad by the pain and heart ache. I was in love with the relationship between Zara and Cynister. I felt every emotion and I devoured this book.
Cannot wait to see where book 6 will take us.
"Life is too short to make it so shallow. I want to fall in love and find someone that doesn't cringe if I admit I'm afraid. I want to try to do it right, not just go through the motions.
I want it to matter."
July 20, 2020
2.5
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September 15, 2020
OHHHH this was so SO good!!
I mean, from the very first book i was dying to learn more about Jason, to see what he had been through and why he was the way he was. The more glimpses i got of him, the more I NEEDED his story, and this was everything I needed and so much more on top!
Zara is amazing, she’s so brilliant. I love how they meet, how the relationship blooms, and I adore the amount of twists and turns that are woven into the storyline. None of this went how I expected it to, and I have to say that I have called the authors rude words on multiple occasions. #SorryNotSorry #YourDeserveIt
Something that I admire these authors for is their ability to really delve into your emotions, to make you feel everything that is happening, then give them a little twist just for the hell of it, and still leave you feeling oh so happy by the time you’re done. I haven’t come across a book before that has made me misty eyed so frequently and seemingly so effortlessly. These ladies just pour emotion into everything, and it’s an absolute delight. Mostly... sometimes I want to kick the pair of them, but hey. That’s why we love them right?
The best authors are the ones we love to hate, because we never see that next twist coming, we’re never quite sure how a situation will turn out.
I love that Gamer Girls is a standalone story in each book, whilst also linking back to all previous books, so if you haven’t read them yet? Start with book 1, or you’ll not get most of the subplot. I mean, they explain things well enough that you can get the gist of what is going on, but you would lose so much depth.
The beauty of this series is that each book just adds more emotion, more characters to absolutely adore, and more tension and intrigue to the wider plot that runs throughout the series.
I love the continuation of Murders story! And I absolutely adore the fact that these authors don’t leave us guessing as to what happens with anybody, instead we see all of their stories build, and weave together in what becomes a very complex, but gloriously easy-to-read storyline. I won’t give away what happens, but I love where things went for Murder!! He’s such a cutie 😍
All in all, another absolutely brilliant story from Auryn and Kitty!! I can’t wait for the release of the final book!!
I mean, from the very first book i was dying to learn more about Jason, to see what he had been through and why he was the way he was. The more glimpses i got of him, the more I NEEDED his story, and this was everything I needed and so much more on top!
Zara is amazing, she’s so brilliant. I love how they meet, how the relationship blooms, and I adore the amount of twists and turns that are woven into the storyline. None of this went how I expected it to, and I have to say that I have called the authors rude words on multiple occasions. #SorryNotSorry #YourDeserveIt
Something that I admire these authors for is their ability to really delve into your emotions, to make you feel everything that is happening, then give them a little twist just for the hell of it, and still leave you feeling oh so happy by the time you’re done. I haven’t come across a book before that has made me misty eyed so frequently and seemingly so effortlessly. These ladies just pour emotion into everything, and it’s an absolute delight. Mostly... sometimes I want to kick the pair of them, but hey. That’s why we love them right?
The best authors are the ones we love to hate, because we never see that next twist coming, we’re never quite sure how a situation will turn out.
I love that Gamer Girls is a standalone story in each book, whilst also linking back to all previous books, so if you haven’t read them yet? Start with book 1, or you’ll not get most of the subplot. I mean, they explain things well enough that you can get the gist of what is going on, but you would lose so much depth.
The beauty of this series is that each book just adds more emotion, more characters to absolutely adore, and more tension and intrigue to the wider plot that runs throughout the series.
I love the continuation of Murders story! And I absolutely adore the fact that these authors don’t leave us guessing as to what happens with anybody, instead we see all of their stories build, and weave together in what becomes a very complex, but gloriously easy-to-read storyline. I won’t give away what happens, but I love where things went for Murder!! He’s such a cutie 😍
All in all, another absolutely brilliant story from Auryn and Kitty!! I can’t wait for the release of the final book!!
June 19, 2020
I’m in love!
Auryn and Kitty have hit it out of the park again!! GG is one of my top 5 series, and this book takes the cake! Sorry, I’m mixing metaphors. Lol
********************SPOILER ALERT******************
Jason, or Cynister as the gaming world knows him, is a dream guy. It’s his inherent nature to protect, whether it’s his country, his friends or the woman he’s falling in love with. He will do whatever it takes to ensure those he cares about are safe and happy; we’ve known this since book 1.
Then enters Zara. Beautiful on the outside due to her Middle Eastern heritage. Beautiful on the inside due to her heart, conviction and bravery to overcome her fears. Jason and Zara meet quite unconventionally when Zara has a panic attack during class. Jason notices and recognizes it as he also suffers extreme PTSD. They both have their reasons, as you’ll find out. Turns out Zara gets as much comfort from Crysis, Jason’s service dog and sidekick, as Jason does.
As Jason continues to do his job searching for any little thread to find the KoG, he and Zara help each other in dealing with the events leading to each of their PTSD. Zara, after a little nudging by Jason, starts gaming with the hope it can help with her very valid fear of guns. Not only does it help, but it also allows her to meet the rest of the GG gang. They all welcome her with open arms, as usual. Zara’s unique friendship with Murder not only helps Zara with her fears, as he also comes from a Middle Eastern background, but also helps her understand Jason and the gaming world.
Watching Jason come out of the shadows, in which he’s expertly hidden for the last 4 books, is inspiring. Finally realizing he’s worth so much more than his gaming and hacking skills, Jason shows us his true self. And let me be clear, I LICKED HIM, THEREFORE HE IS MINE 😝 Jason is a man of many talents, a man of mystery, and a man any woman would be blessed to have love her.
Auryn and Kitty’s writing is epic, as always. Their worlds keep me on the edge of my seat, wanting to read as fast as possible to find out what happens, but also wanting to savor each word so it’s not over too soon. I can not recommend a better collaboration than these two. They produce magic, and I am lucky to be able to share in that magic with every page I turn.
Now, back to impatiently waiting for book 6!!
Auryn and Kitty have hit it out of the park again!! GG is one of my top 5 series, and this book takes the cake! Sorry, I’m mixing metaphors. Lol
********************SPOILER ALERT******************
Jason, or Cynister as the gaming world knows him, is a dream guy. It’s his inherent nature to protect, whether it’s his country, his friends or the woman he’s falling in love with. He will do whatever it takes to ensure those he cares about are safe and happy; we’ve known this since book 1.
Then enters Zara. Beautiful on the outside due to her Middle Eastern heritage. Beautiful on the inside due to her heart, conviction and bravery to overcome her fears. Jason and Zara meet quite unconventionally when Zara has a panic attack during class. Jason notices and recognizes it as he also suffers extreme PTSD. They both have their reasons, as you’ll find out. Turns out Zara gets as much comfort from Crysis, Jason’s service dog and sidekick, as Jason does.
As Jason continues to do his job searching for any little thread to find the KoG, he and Zara help each other in dealing with the events leading to each of their PTSD. Zara, after a little nudging by Jason, starts gaming with the hope it can help with her very valid fear of guns. Not only does it help, but it also allows her to meet the rest of the GG gang. They all welcome her with open arms, as usual. Zara’s unique friendship with Murder not only helps Zara with her fears, as he also comes from a Middle Eastern background, but also helps her understand Jason and the gaming world.
Watching Jason come out of the shadows, in which he’s expertly hidden for the last 4 books, is inspiring. Finally realizing he’s worth so much more than his gaming and hacking skills, Jason shows us his true self. And let me be clear, I LICKED HIM, THEREFORE HE IS MINE 😝 Jason is a man of many talents, a man of mystery, and a man any woman would be blessed to have love her.
Auryn and Kitty’s writing is epic, as always. Their worlds keep me on the edge of my seat, wanting to read as fast as possible to find out what happens, but also wanting to savor each word so it’s not over too soon. I can not recommend a better collaboration than these two. They produce magic, and I am lucky to be able to share in that magic with every page I turn.
Now, back to impatiently waiting for book 6!!
November 9, 2025
BEST OF THE BEST SO FAR !
Not just because Cynister/ Jason is pretty much my favourite character, who am I kidding it’s really really hard to find a character in this series that I can’t empathise with. An awful lot of the central characters have had a stunningly messed up life, that’s on those very talented mean authors.
A dark romance series that is centralised on gamer girls, who are frankly no different from gamer boys. The internet is supposed to be the great equaliser. Loosely based on what could have been, The Kings of Gaming are the main ‘bad guys’ of this series they are portrayed as an incel group of men who don’t want women anywhere near computer games in any capacity.
This book focuses on Agent Jason Raige aka Cynister the quiet quirky man who claims to just be a pizza delivery guy and Zara a young woman suffering from PTSD brought on after being held hostage at gunpoint at her previous university. Jason’s new assignment takes him to New York to investigate an anti Muslim militia, he chose it because one of his gamer friends is attending.
I seriously love how these authors are able to explain such a vast range of things that impact everyday people from sexism, racism, to sexuality, gender dysphoria and all manner of things in between. Like the vast majority of people I’d never heard of haphephobia but learning about it helps to understand why it would be a living nightmare. A huge thanks to the authors for explaining issues without dumbing it down. As this is a 2nd read through for me I’m now torn between reading the next book and reading the ruin series. Choices.
Not just because Cynister/ Jason is pretty much my favourite character, who am I kidding it’s really really hard to find a character in this series that I can’t empathise with. An awful lot of the central characters have had a stunningly messed up life, that’s on those very talented mean authors.
A dark romance series that is centralised on gamer girls, who are frankly no different from gamer boys. The internet is supposed to be the great equaliser. Loosely based on what could have been, The Kings of Gaming are the main ‘bad guys’ of this series they are portrayed as an incel group of men who don’t want women anywhere near computer games in any capacity.
This book focuses on Agent Jason Raige aka Cynister the quiet quirky man who claims to just be a pizza delivery guy and Zara a young woman suffering from PTSD brought on after being held hostage at gunpoint at her previous university. Jason’s new assignment takes him to New York to investigate an anti Muslim militia, he chose it because one of his gamer friends is attending.
I seriously love how these authors are able to explain such a vast range of things that impact everyday people from sexism, racism, to sexuality, gender dysphoria and all manner of things in between. Like the vast majority of people I’d never heard of haphephobia but learning about it helps to understand why it would be a living nightmare. A huge thanks to the authors for explaining issues without dumbing it down. As this is a 2nd read through for me I’m now torn between reading the next book and reading the ruin series. Choices.
December 8, 2021
Yay! I'd been wanting to know more about Cyn, the undercover FBI agent since book 1. And my theory that none of the other books could be as deep? Not so sure about that anymore. Because this one is close. 🤏
Both main characters in this book have PTSD. Jason's has been longer in duration and deeper in severity, but I love that he recognizes the validity of Zara's experience despite that.
I don't particularly look for characters that are dark or damaged, but I fully appreciate that when fictional characters go through something hard it's not always possible to just dust yourself if and get on with your life. Those experiences leave scars and not all of them are visible. I really respect the authors for having that challenge head on. Things might be harder and messier, but they feel more authentic to me, and I give that a lot of credit.
Jason Raige aka Cyn has been tracking the Kings of Gaming since the beginning. But his PTSD is as bad as his hacking skills are good, and it doesn't help that he keeps getting pulled in on active shooter cases.
Zara was staring down the end of a barrel. And even though she survived, it's still all she can see. When Jason helps her through a panic attack, they form a bond that quickly grows into attraction.
A campus shooting changes everything. When the FBI pulls him and threatens to close the KoG case it seems like everything is crumbling. But while he's always felt alone, Zara isn't the only one missing him. And if there's anyone who cares as much about the KoG case as Jason, it's the gamer girls.
Both main characters in this book have PTSD. Jason's has been longer in duration and deeper in severity, but I love that he recognizes the validity of Zara's experience despite that.
I don't particularly look for characters that are dark or damaged, but I fully appreciate that when fictional characters go through something hard it's not always possible to just dust yourself if and get on with your life. Those experiences leave scars and not all of them are visible. I really respect the authors for having that challenge head on. Things might be harder and messier, but they feel more authentic to me, and I give that a lot of credit.
Jason Raige aka Cyn has been tracking the Kings of Gaming since the beginning. But his PTSD is as bad as his hacking skills are good, and it doesn't help that he keeps getting pulled in on active shooter cases.
Zara was staring down the end of a barrel. And even though she survived, it's still all she can see. When Jason helps her through a panic attack, they form a bond that quickly grows into attraction.
A campus shooting changes everything. When the FBI pulls him and threatens to close the KoG case it seems like everything is crumbling. But while he's always felt alone, Zara isn't the only one missing him. And if there's anyone who cares as much about the KoG case as Jason, it's the gamer girls.
June 12, 2020
Wow!!
Well, I knew it was going to be good, but I was still blown away but this book.
We finally get to know FBI Agent Jason Raige aka Cynister in this book. He has been installed at a college in New York to monitor the situation with militant anti-Muslim groups on the campus, and at the same time is getting his degree. He chose that campus because Murder (Samir) was attending college there and he wanted to keep an eye out for him.
At the same college was a pretty MENA (Middle Eastern North African) girl, Zara, who was in some of his classes. When she has a PTSD episode he runs out of the class to help her. He takes her home to meet his service dog that helps him with his PTSD. It turns out he was the sniper that saved her when she was involved in a shooting of Middle Eastern appearing students at her previous college.
This romance is exceptionally rocky because of both of them having PTSD and Jason’s job, but the romance is also beautiful, as are the friendships formed with the other gamers from the other books in the series.
I adored both of these main characters and they are perfect for each other even though on the surface they seem to so wrong.
I loved getting to know Murder more too, as he stepped up to help Zara so much and became a true friend. He even set her up on a gaming pc so she could join in with his outfit, even though she was terrible at it and died a lot in game.
The tension was ramped up in this book towards solving the problem of the KoG and you feel like you could almost see the finishing line if you could just get over this one big hill. I can’t wait to see how the last book turns out because I feel like it’s going to blow my socks off.
Read this book, read this entire series and you won’t be disappointed. You don’t need to know anything about gamer culture but I bet you feel like you want to try a game after you read it!
Well, I knew it was going to be good, but I was still blown away but this book.
We finally get to know FBI Agent Jason Raige aka Cynister in this book. He has been installed at a college in New York to monitor the situation with militant anti-Muslim groups on the campus, and at the same time is getting his degree. He chose that campus because Murder (Samir) was attending college there and he wanted to keep an eye out for him.
At the same college was a pretty MENA (Middle Eastern North African) girl, Zara, who was in some of his classes. When she has a PTSD episode he runs out of the class to help her. He takes her home to meet his service dog that helps him with his PTSD. It turns out he was the sniper that saved her when she was involved in a shooting of Middle Eastern appearing students at her previous college.
This romance is exceptionally rocky because of both of them having PTSD and Jason’s job, but the romance is also beautiful, as are the friendships formed with the other gamers from the other books in the series.
I adored both of these main characters and they are perfect for each other even though on the surface they seem to so wrong.
I loved getting to know Murder more too, as he stepped up to help Zara so much and became a true friend. He even set her up on a gaming pc so she could join in with his outfit, even though she was terrible at it and died a lot in game.
The tension was ramped up in this book towards solving the problem of the KoG and you feel like you could almost see the finishing line if you could just get over this one big hill. I can’t wait to see how the last book turns out because I feel like it’s going to blow my socks off.
Read this book, read this entire series and you won’t be disappointed. You don’t need to know anything about gamer culture but I bet you feel like you want to try a game after you read it!
June 5, 2020
Awestruck
I don't write many reviews because I am afraid of giving away the best parts. That being said, this book made me FEEL so much. I got angry, I laughed, I yearned, I was scared, and yes I got turned on. Auryn and Kitty have really taken me on an emotional rollercoaster, not just with this book, but the whole series. I am so glad that more of Agent Raige's story was told. As much as I love every character in GG since the first book, it was like I just needed to know more about this enigma of a man. Why is he a ghost both online and in real life?
Zara is perfectly imperfect and introduced as a college student having been witness to a tragedy too common in the last 20 years.
I can't express enough how much gratitude I feel for being able to get lost in these stories. Each of the books in this series tackle real social problems and show that when people react outside the 'norm' of social and economic expectations others can surprise you.
Anxiously waiting for Rhaven's story next and dreading it as well since I don't want it to end. I very much like living in both Auryn and Kitty's stories. If you have not read either of their other works, I recommend you do.
I don't write many reviews because I am afraid of giving away the best parts. That being said, this book made me FEEL so much. I got angry, I laughed, I yearned, I was scared, and yes I got turned on. Auryn and Kitty have really taken me on an emotional rollercoaster, not just with this book, but the whole series. I am so glad that more of Agent Raige's story was told. As much as I love every character in GG since the first book, it was like I just needed to know more about this enigma of a man. Why is he a ghost both online and in real life?
Zara is perfectly imperfect and introduced as a college student having been witness to a tragedy too common in the last 20 years.
I can't express enough how much gratitude I feel for being able to get lost in these stories. Each of the books in this series tackle real social problems and show that when people react outside the 'norm' of social and economic expectations others can surprise you.
Anxiously waiting for Rhaven's story next and dreading it as well since I don't want it to end. I very much like living in both Auryn and Kitty's stories. If you have not read either of their other works, I recommend you do.
September 18, 2021
Five Stars Bitches!!!!!!!!!
I was so excited and ready to read Jason's story. Right off the bat it was poppin! My emotions were all over the place. If you thought he was a hero before let me tell you.... after reading this you are going to be screaming Jedi Knight Muther Fookers!!!
Jason is just everything. I love that he's under 6ft and "average". It makes his ability to be a shadow all the more real. He's sooo smart, empathetic, raw, dreamy, and just sooooo perfect.
Zara, I adore. She's sensual, sultry, feisty, empathetic, and understanding. I love the easy communication between these two. Her back story was insane. I soooo appreciate the author taking on a sad reoccurring domestic issue and flipping it so we see it from a different perspective.
Everything about this story had me all up in my feels. The continuance of Kitty & Murder was exciting and frustrating. I am not a fan of Kitty BUT that's just cause I would have loved my baby daddy to be more like murder so that's just me projecting... sorry girl.
OMG and Knox!! Kid is really finding himself. Props!
I was so excited and ready to read Jason's story. Right off the bat it was poppin! My emotions were all over the place. If you thought he was a hero before let me tell you.... after reading this you are going to be screaming Jedi Knight Muther Fookers!!!
Jason is just everything. I love that he's under 6ft and "average". It makes his ability to be a shadow all the more real. He's sooo smart, empathetic, raw, dreamy, and just sooooo perfect.
Zara, I adore. She's sensual, sultry, feisty, empathetic, and understanding. I love the easy communication between these two. Her back story was insane. I soooo appreciate the author taking on a sad reoccurring domestic issue and flipping it so we see it from a different perspective.
Everything about this story had me all up in my feels. The continuance of Kitty & Murder was exciting and frustrating. I am not a fan of Kitty BUT that's just cause I would have loved my baby daddy to be more like murder so that's just me projecting... sorry girl.
OMG and Knox!! Kid is really finding himself. Props!
May 6, 2023
I hope this isn't a sign for the rest of the series
I loved the first 3 books, the last book was slightly disappointing and this one just didn't seem to fit. Zara got on my nerves towards the end, especially at the convention
Chasing down someone she KNOWS is an FBI agent, and working on a case involving that convention and throwing a public hissy fit. I get it, she misses Jason, BUT the whole reason he got pulled so unceremoniously was because of her knowing stuff and being involved. Surely stopping and thinking about her actions -in that place, at that time- would have been sensible, no?
Murder was being treated like a leper by kitty who needed a slap, quite frankly. No matter what he did she found fault with it. Starting to not like her much now
I don't want to dislike people in this series. But some of these characters need to get a grip and think about people other than themselves for once. I can't say I'm looking forward to the next book, but I'll give it a go
I loved the first 3 books, the last book was slightly disappointing and this one just didn't seem to fit. Zara got on my nerves towards the end, especially at the convention
Chasing down someone she KNOWS is an FBI agent, and working on a case involving that convention and throwing a public hissy fit. I get it, she misses Jason, BUT the whole reason he got pulled so unceremoniously was because of her knowing stuff and being involved. Surely stopping and thinking about her actions -in that place, at that time- would have been sensible, no?
Murder was being treated like a leper by kitty who needed a slap, quite frankly. No matter what he did she found fault with it. Starting to not like her much now
I don't want to dislike people in this series. But some of these characters need to get a grip and think about people other than themselves for once. I can't say I'm looking forward to the next book, but I'll give it a go
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2020
Ahh, Jason. This cover has haunted me for a while- great choice ladies and what a good story.
Jason is your typical haunted, destroyed, PTSD hero that you get all the feels for. It helps to read the series before this book because there are lots of characters to understand before you get to Cynister (Jason).
I started with the Gamer Girls series and really enjoyed it until I hit book 5. Total burn out, ready to stop for a while. I am so glad I did! I am reading this with fresh eyes and giving Jason and Zarah the fresh start they deserve.
Each book in this series centers around some kind of trauma, and how to recover and find help, love and acceptance. It just happens to be all in the gamer world, which I am really enjoying.
This story centers around school shootings and the fall out to the survivors, and then moving on to how they will be defeating the KoG nasty man group. It was a bit insta, but hey it works.
On to the next!
Jason is your typical haunted, destroyed, PTSD hero that you get all the feels for. It helps to read the series before this book because there are lots of characters to understand before you get to Cynister (Jason).
I started with the Gamer Girls series and really enjoyed it until I hit book 5. Total burn out, ready to stop for a while. I am so glad I did! I am reading this with fresh eyes and giving Jason and Zarah the fresh start they deserve.
Each book in this series centers around some kind of trauma, and how to recover and find help, love and acceptance. It just happens to be all in the gamer world, which I am really enjoying.
This story centers around school shootings and the fall out to the survivors, and then moving on to how they will be defeating the KoG nasty man group. It was a bit insta, but hey it works.
On to the next!
June 9, 2020
**I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
It took me a while to process my emotions about this one. It was such a beautiful, heart breaking, gut-wrenching story between two broken souls that suffer from PTSD due to various traumas. Cyn and Zara’s story is one of growth, showing that a person has the ability to heal after experiencing unthinkable horrors, and learning that trust and love go hand in hand.
I don’t what it says about me that I like my main characters extra broken, but this has been my favorite GG book so far. It exceeded my expectations. You’d think I know by now to not be surprised by Auryn and Kitty, but they always leave a little in awe.
Highly recommend the GG series, as always, and I definitely recommend binging them all as quickly as possible so you can read Cyn’s story ASAP.
It took me a while to process my emotions about this one. It was such a beautiful, heart breaking, gut-wrenching story between two broken souls that suffer from PTSD due to various traumas. Cyn and Zara’s story is one of growth, showing that a person has the ability to heal after experiencing unthinkable horrors, and learning that trust and love go hand in hand.
I don’t what it says about me that I like my main characters extra broken, but this has been my favorite GG book so far. It exceeded my expectations. You’d think I know by now to not be surprised by Auryn and Kitty, but they always leave a little in awe.
Highly recommend the GG series, as always, and I definitely recommend binging them all as quickly as possible so you can read Cyn’s story ASAP.
June 18, 2020
This series is KILLING me! I’m so glad I read all 5 books back to back, but now I have to wait for the last book...urgggh. Actually, I’m still holding out hope that the authors take pity on us addicts and drag this series out for as long as possible. Give me ALL the books centered around this gaming world. TBH, I do think it is going to be hard wrapping this story up in one more book. However, this is Cynister’s story and boy what a story it was.
Cynister aka Jason Raige, FBI agent in cyber terrorism who has always been a bit of an enigma. PTSD sufferer and a man on a mission to protect the gamer girls he has come to know and love.
This book is action packed and unputdownable and I might have had a little moisture leakage in my eyes a bit. As I’ve said, I can’t enough of these characters and cannot wait to read the next one.
Cynister aka Jason Raige, FBI agent in cyber terrorism who has always been a bit of an enigma. PTSD sufferer and a man on a mission to protect the gamer girls he has come to know and love.
This book is action packed and unputdownable and I might have had a little moisture leakage in my eyes a bit. As I’ve said, I can’t enough of these characters and cannot wait to read the next one.
June 1, 2020
Ok so I think I say this after every book either of these ladies write but they just get better and better! How am I supposed to function today after finishing that book? Or even worse.. how am I supposed to start something new? I just can’t. There is so much goodness to this book that I can’t even write a review properly coz I’m still reeling from it and the book hangover is strong!
Whatever you do.. don’t pass over this series because you think it’s all about gaming and you won’t understand or won’t be interested. It’s about so much more than gaming. It’s actually about the relationships more.. and not just the loved up couple but the friendships and the chosen families and connections. Something that these authors write far better than any one I have ever read.
Whatever you do.. don’t pass over this series because you think it’s all about gaming and you won’t understand or won’t be interested. It’s about so much more than gaming. It’s actually about the relationships more.. and not just the loved up couple but the friendships and the chosen families and connections. Something that these authors write far better than any one I have ever read.
June 9, 2020
As usual, Auryn Hadley and Kitty Cox gave us another great book! I was hooked from the first chapter and ended up reading until the early morning hours. Jason Raige is a great character, one that I wanted to learn more about. There are so many things I want to say, but I can't without spoiling the book. I love the way Auryn and Kitty write about serious real-life struggles and take readers on a rollercoaster of emotions. The tragic events that pull at your heartstrings and tear you up inside. I felt like I was right there, experiencing everything along with the characters. I laughed, I teared up and then like a sucker for punishment I continued to read for more.
Read it, you won't be disappointed!
Read it, you won't be disappointed!
November 3, 2020
Soft cliffhanger
Wow, a different turn in the gamer girls series. Crazy US prejudice militant group hating Muslims storm a college to kill brown students whom they think are muslims. Jason / Cynister/ FBI agent saves the day. PTSD is a big theme of the book and these crazy violent people who live among us. This ties into the crazy group targeting the gamer girls. I felt it ended abruptly, like a soft cliffhanger. Can't wait for the next book and hopefully we will have a resolution and arrests to make the world safe again. I still love the series, this book just had heart break, frustration and fences to be mended. I wanted more from the story and hope to get it in the next book.
Wow, a different turn in the gamer girls series. Crazy US prejudice militant group hating Muslims storm a college to kill brown students whom they think are muslims. Jason / Cynister/ FBI agent saves the day. PTSD is a big theme of the book and these crazy violent people who live among us. This ties into the crazy group targeting the gamer girls. I felt it ended abruptly, like a soft cliffhanger. Can't wait for the next book and hopefully we will have a resolution and arrests to make the world safe again. I still love the series, this book just had heart break, frustration and fences to be mended. I wanted more from the story and hope to get it in the next book.
January 16, 2021
Not my favorite GG, but a great addition to the series
Let me start with saying that I'm obsessed with GG. I've been reading it for years, and for someone who rarely reads contemporary, that's rare. But this book didn't quite meet the same high quality and the rest. It was a little too rushed, and the relationships didn't have the time they needed to mature. I also thought the characters' trials with PTSD were sorely under-represented. While kudos to the authors for tackling the difficult discussion of mental health, the book read like the relationship (in 2 days) was the magical panacea to male it all better.
On the plus side, it was great to see more attention paid to Cyn!
Let me start with saying that I'm obsessed with GG. I've been reading it for years, and for someone who rarely reads contemporary, that's rare. But this book didn't quite meet the same high quality and the rest. It was a little too rushed, and the relationships didn't have the time they needed to mature. I also thought the characters' trials with PTSD were sorely under-represented. While kudos to the authors for tackling the difficult discussion of mental health, the book read like the relationship (in 2 days) was the magical panacea to male it all better.
On the plus side, it was great to see more attention paid to Cyn!
June 7, 2020
They did it again!
I love this series and hate this series.
I love the storyline, all the characters, and both big and small problems they face in each book.
I hate this series because like all great series it has to end sometime. And that time is coming too soon in my opinion. I wish that this universe would go on forever, but alas that would inevitably drive others mad with no end in sight. So i get it, I do. Which is why I have a feeling this series will join others both in my ebook library and my paper library shelf to be read again and again. Excited for both the final book in this series and the next series to begin.
I love this series and hate this series.
I love the storyline, all the characters, and both big and small problems they face in each book.
I hate this series because like all great series it has to end sometime. And that time is coming too soon in my opinion. I wish that this universe would go on forever, but alas that would inevitably drive others mad with no end in sight. So i get it, I do. Which is why I have a feeling this series will join others both in my ebook library and my paper library shelf to be read again and again. Excited for both the final book in this series and the next series to begin.
July 11, 2020
THAT WAS ABSOLUTELY FREAKING AMAZING OMG!!!!! I fell in love with Cynister in this book. This book blew my mind, Jason was the sweetest most intensely loving hero and I absolutely adored him!!! Him and Zara were perfect for each other!! I loved the interaction with the whole high table group, Murder, all the other characters we see in the past books. AMAZING SERIES.
I could not put it down. Literally slept for 2 hours last night bc i was reading and continued reading when i got up and at work too!!!
I mean before this my fave had to be Void but in this book, Cynister just blew my mind. He cares, SO MUCH.
I need the last book NOW
I could not put it down. Literally slept for 2 hours last night bc i was reading and continued reading when i got up and at work too!!!
I mean before this my fave had to be Void but in this book, Cynister just blew my mind. He cares, SO MUCH.
I need the last book NOW
January 3, 2021
Where there is a will there is a way.
As a none gamer and an wishy washy liking for mysteries this book is like a teaser chapter in a book your teacher would read to you in grade school. ALWAYS STOPPED at rhe wrong place.
I suggest starting with Flawed and plenty of time. 1 chapter only before lights out ended up 7 hours later when eyes refused to focus any longer.
Serious and delicate as possible handling of sensitive situations, emotional feelings and and sexual interpersonal relationships of ALL types.
Please try. At 74 I'm learning about so much I had never been aware of. Sure gives plenty to consider and think about while doing housework.
As a none gamer and an wishy washy liking for mysteries this book is like a teaser chapter in a book your teacher would read to you in grade school. ALWAYS STOPPED at rhe wrong place.
I suggest starting with Flawed and plenty of time. 1 chapter only before lights out ended up 7 hours later when eyes refused to focus any longer.
Serious and delicate as possible handling of sensitive situations, emotional feelings and and sexual interpersonal relationships of ALL types.
Please try. At 74 I'm learning about so much I had never been aware of. Sure gives plenty to consider and think about while doing housework.
November 13, 2021
Cyn!!!! I have been waiting for his book or at least hoping he would get his own book. He is EVERYTHING. I can’t even tell you all the ways that I absolutely positively love him. He is so protective but also a total baddy. He is the absolute perfect protector and what’s even better, the authors made him so real. I can see him being a real person that you meet and never know how he saved your life. Granted I hope I would notice because sigh he is just yummy.
If you have been waiting for Jason’s book like I have, you will love it. Plus it is the perfect continuation to this series. I might keep saying that after each book in this series but it is true.
If you have been waiting for Jason’s book like I have, you will love it. Plus it is the perfect continuation to this series. I might keep saying that after each book in this series but it is true.
June 1, 2020
This is another amazing installment of the Gamer Girls series. This whole series has been one epic adventure after another. The characters leap off the page at you, and I always end up desperately wishing that I lived in their world. Every single book these ladies write grabs hold of me and doesn't let go. Collateral Damage gave me a HEA (mostly) for a character that I have been craving to see fall in love, and yet I STILL WANT MORE!!! And I want more in the best way. This is one series that I wish would never end.
June 1, 2020
Honestly, I have no words to express just how GOOD this book was. From start to end the emotions this book brings out are intense. You feel as though you are a part of this group, and if you aren't you really, really want to be. It makes you want to find a family as strong and as unique as all of them. I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are a gamer, read it. If you aren't a gamer, read it (maybe start with book one if you haven't read the series yet...). You won't regret it, other than maybe at the end yelling, "I WANT MORE!"
June 5, 2020
Unput-downable
I discovered this series in the last year or so. I was thrilled to have the kind of series that hit all the buttons for me: romance, drama, and video game dorks.
Collateral Damage is the story everyone has been waiting for, as we've followed our beloved Jason from Flawed, dying to know if he gets a happy ending. I downloaded the book when I woke up this morning. I finished it (around work) before I ate dinner this evening. I loved the whole ride, and I cant wait to find out how it ends, whilst I'm devastated its nearly over. Thank you Auryn and Kitty!
I discovered this series in the last year or so. I was thrilled to have the kind of series that hit all the buttons for me: romance, drama, and video game dorks.
Collateral Damage is the story everyone has been waiting for, as we've followed our beloved Jason from Flawed, dying to know if he gets a happy ending. I downloaded the book when I woke up this morning. I finished it (around work) before I ate dinner this evening. I loved the whole ride, and I cant wait to find out how it ends, whilst I'm devastated its nearly over. Thank you Auryn and Kitty!
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