As far back as I can remember, I pushed away those ugly demons looping their venom around my brain. Trying to turn me into a man I never wanted to be.
“Do what we say or die.”
Words filled with poison, they slowly dripped in my veins, leaving me a mess of a man, and walking that thin line between right and wrong.
I never wanted to be a killer; now it’s a craving I need to survive.The man I used … killer; now it’s a craving I need to survive.The man I used to be never wanted to cause anyone an ounce of unbearable pain, because I know first-hand what it feels like.
That choking in your throat, barely able to breathe heartbreak of those who died, left behind.
The men I’m killing, they left me no choice but to walk a line chalked with retaliation.
To leave the woman I love behind.
I didn’t take a life like they claim to cause her pain. I sacrificed a lifetime with her to keep her alive.
But, after fourteen years of her living that lie, I’m crossing another line. One I was warned to never step over. “Stay away from her, or she dies.”
*Author Note- This book may spark triggers.
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Dark and gritty and fantastic!
4.5 stars
Nick, Nick, Nick!
Honey, I don’t pity you. I don’t but a huge part of my heart broke for all you’ve been through. I knew your story would be bad. I assumed it would be painful. I had no idea that the darkness you lived in was worse than pitch black. I want to hug you and then hunt down your demons. I know that I would be a vigilante. I know that in your shoes I would not hesitate to get my Retaliation. I’m not as smart or have the patience you do. I would have gone of and probably gotten myself killed.
I want you to know that I ache on the inside for your pain, your loss, and everything that could have been. BUT! But I smile and glow with joy at all that will be…
So Nick, I just wanted to say thank you for finally having the courage and strength to share your story. It’s my greatest hope that guilt will one day no longer wear you down.
And to the readers, well I just hope you are ready for the intense and heart achingly beautiful journey. One body bag at a time!
Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
He was a chaotic storm and she was the eye, the center that offered him some peace, the quiet and calm from what raged on the outside. Vengeance was warranted and retaliation is sought by Nick after so much suffering. This book is the pinnacle of the series, it was the story that dragged my heart into the depths of guilt, misery and heartache that Nick was drowning under with only one goal, to finally take back what was his and bring an end to what had kept them apart. Retaliation is a story that will hold your heart and soul in its hand, at times it will break you, have you seeing only the dark but hold on to the hope, as the light that shines from forever will engulf you. This is a love story like no other and one that will burrow its way deep under your skin.
Oh my lord this book
I just knew Nick’s story was going to be the hardest to read and I was right. This book absolutely pulled me through the wringer the emotions Kathy had me feeling were just all over the place, but I knew the thing’s he had endured the sacrifice he went through that he’d get them back he’d make them all pay for all the misery they caused.
Blair who never got over losing Nick no matter who she dated it’d always be him she loved. As your reading this story you can imagine the despair the pain she went through of a love that never got it’s chance to thrive.
I have to say this whole series was just amazing and one that’ll stay with me for awhile.
I’d definitely recommend reading this whole series because you won’t want to stop at 1 book you’ll want to find out what happens in each book.
This is just my opinion and my review
Nikolai “Nick” Popov shows what someone has to live with and live by in order to survive. Blaire Warren has a kind heart – she tries to help those that need it the most. Our author is very good at keeping everything close to her chest. She takes her time about letting the characters reveal things that helps you understand why she’s good at keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Some scenes are hard to read but it’s understandable as Nick let’s us know about his life. That life affected others and we get to see that as well. What’s good about this series is that secondary characters in this story have books of their own. In no way do you need to read the first two books in the Vindicator series in order to understand what’s going on here – that’s a good thing since I’m two books behind.
Some scenes were hard to read but it’s understandable as Nick let’s us into his world. We see the effect it had on others as the story unfolds. Being so emotional it’s not hard to picture what our main characters had to endure – it’s something that you could picture as being based on reality. In order to get a sense of what Nick had to become he’s very graphic in telling us what he has to do to make his world a better place. – a little warning for the squeamish. There’s also a sadness that follows him throughout.
You could consider this a second chance romance but it’s the action and suspense that takes center stage here. Seeing Blair and Nick find their way back to each other was nice but knowing that good will overtake evil was what had me turning the page all the way to an ending that had mixed emotions.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Retaliation is a fantastic read. Nick and Blaire’s story broke my heart.
What Nick went through during his childhood was horrendous and heartbreaking. I had tears for Blaire and hoped Nick would be back for her. This book is dark, gritty, intense, passionate and full of emotions. Loved the story and can not wait to see what Kathy will have for us next.
~~~Belinda, Book Haven Book Blog
Kathy Coopmans has done it again! She has taken my heart and ripped it out and put it back together slowly. This is one dark, suspenseful read that will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what is going to happen next. As you are reading and the story is unfolding you are saying wow, OMG, WTF, why is that happening and lastly I was yelling and screaming at my kindle because I had so many emotions while reading this story.
Nick and Blaire’s story is one of pain, and heart break. It is about two souls that are tormented and has suffered so much from childhood on. Nick will do anything to protect Blaire and he does just that. This is his story and the way Kathy has told it is absolutely amazing!
This is one of those stories that will grab you right from page one and have you biting your nails till the end. So go on out and one click it you won’t be sorry!
At first, I thought this was going to be my favorite of Coopmans’s books. I love these characters, and their story is not an easy one. The cards have been stacked against them since day one.
I can honestly say that I didn’t dislike this book. However, it didn’t turn out to be my favorite out of Coopmans’s books that I have read. *insert sad face*
The thing about this author’s writing is that it is completely unique. Her writing style might not be for everyone. No matter what one’s preference, you can’t deny there is a good story there. And that story is most definitely dark and gritty. It’s not for the faint hearted, that is for sure.
I had a hard time with this book because nothing really happened. It was more of these characters wallowing in their self pity and inner thoughts. I just wasn’t in the mood for it. I needed some more gore. I needed more things to happen to keep me motivated. When things did happen, they certainly had my attention. I just needed more in this book.
I was glad to get Nick and Blaire’s story. I was happy to see them get their version of a happily ever after. If you are looking to pick up this book, I do suggest reading the first two books so you can follow the storyline better.
Oh boy… The book I’ve been wanting to read for so long is finally complete and waiting for me on my kindle…
How can I keep reading the other books I have to finished when this masterpiece is waiting for me? I can’t read them fast enough because I know that once I start to read this book I’ll not be able to stop…
Kathy Coopmans has been a constant in my reading life and let me tell you that I hadn’t read enough books from her. I’m always eager to read more and more…
Her writing is hot, wild, raw and intense. Just get ready to be drowned by the flow of feelings…
Retaliation is her latest release and it’s the third book from the Vindicator series.
But before I tell you more about this new book I need to tell you something. Despite the fact that all books are standalones I tottaly advise you to read Vengeance and Warrant first. These two books will get you a better insight for this new book.
Just go for it.
This new book explores the lifes of Nick and Blair.
Nick didn’t have a normal childhood. Being the heir to the Bratva mob they expected him to fulfill a few demands. He suffered a lot and that made him the man he is today. He’s a killer and left everything behind.
Blair thought that she had it all. The love of her life right beside her but then he disappears… Now, 14 yeas later she’s a successful lawyer that was given the option for a job… But what will she do? Accepted or deny? Or will her past get in the way?
Will Retaliation solve everything? Will it be enough?
Do you know what perfection is? I’ll tell you what it is… It’s this book right here.
When I ended it my heart was so full I thought it would burst…
This book nailed it and made this series even better.
Superb plot, very well written, super engaging and intense.
All chapters were surrounded by a cloud of darkness and with so much more between each phrase that I can’t spoil.
It was nearly impossible to stop reading because the way each chapter ended made me want to keep reading and reading.
This book presented us with madness, crime, punishment, drama, betrayal but also with so much love, loyalty, friendship and some pretty hot scenes… Oh boy…
I’m not saying anything more because I refuse to spoil so I advise you to grab book 1 and then go from there.
Kathy… Oh Kathy… What can I say?
You are a genius behind a pen. The way your mind works has the ability to hypnotise me…but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Please tell me that Caden will have his own book? Please…
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
The mysterious Nick…finally! I could not have imagined his story and the heartbreaking and tragic reality of his history. I loved the dark and dangerous stories of Cade and Chaz’s but I think this is the darkest of all and it’s terrific. A second chance at love for Nick and Blaire after all the sacrifices Nick made to keep her safe from his horrible family and his tortured life. While Nick was rebuilding himself so was Blaire. After the devastation Nick left behind she became such a strong and fierce woman. She needs to be to handle what’s coming her way when Nick re-enters her life. He knows he should stay away but these two are meant to be. Such a delicious couple! This story has all the fantastic dark and dangerous elements I’ve come to love in this series and seeing Roan is always a delicious treat. The writing was fabulous and this author always gives us characters that we fall in love with and want more of. I hope Caleb’s story is next cuz he’s dreamy. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
“Today is retaliation day, and I’m going to make him pay.”
As Nick (Nikolai) is raised by a man with evil and twisted sickness in place of a heart, Nick is from day one set apart, never like his father, even though his father tries to brainwash him into believing, into becoming evil like he is. And then he meets a beautiful young girl who brings light and love into his life. Unfortunately, she’s ripped away from him and Nick spends the rest of his growing up years finding his way back to her.
Nick’s story, both before her, and after her, is heartbreaking and brutal and twisted and raw. I cannot fathom how he’s not a complete devil like his father, but he’s not. He’s the opposite, and I absolutely loved his story, how he found his way back to Blaire. A forewarning that Retaliation is pretty dark, and has graphic scenes. But if you can handle this kind of stuff, I highly, highly recommend you pick this one up. It’s beautiful in its own gritty, perfect way!
Retaliation is the third book in The Vindicator Series by Kathy Coopmans and it’s a dark, heartbreaking, suspenseful, and action filled story. Nick and Blaire’s second chance romance is full of twists, ups and downs. But there’s also hope and love for the future.
Nick has been through a lot but he’s a fighter and very loyal to the ones he loves. Blaire is sweet but also fierce and sassy. I loved the chemistry between them and their story.
Prepare yourself to dive in again in the intense world of Kathy Coopmans’ Vindicators and prepare yourself for the rollercoaster ride of emotions this awesome book will take you!
Retaliation by Kathy Coopmans is a dark read and certainly not ! for the faint of heart. It’s Nick and Blaire’s gut wrenching story and deals with sensitive subjects that may cause triggers.
Nick Williams – aka Nikolai Popov is a trained assassin, the son of a russian bratva boss, and he learns monsters are real. He was forced to endure unspeakable cruelty . He had to leave his old life and loves behind. Now he’s back and on the warpath. He’s driven by revenge and became a hardened man himself.
Blaire, his teenage love was the victim in all this. She was left by him, had to build a whole new life and she did good for herself. Now, 14 years later she’s a successful lawyer. Only when she discovers Nick is back she’s furious and wants nothing to do with him.
Like I already said, Retaliation is a dark read and not for the faint of heart. I love this kind of stories, but at some point I had to put the book down and take a breather.
Retaliation is a great story with excellent writing. I give 4,5 stars.
From start to finish, this book had me hooked in the best way, but the sheer intensity of it had me stepping back a couple of times just to regroup. So much anger and rage (understandable and justified), we get to see how much strength Blaire truly has when she’s forced to pick the up the pieces and learn to cope with her new reality following tragic loss. There’ve been quite a few characters in books I’ve read over the years that deserve a good throat punch or even a spork to the taint, but Dimitry Popov deserves a fate far worse. There’s nasty, there’s evil, and then there’s Dimitry Popov. Knowing what I learned about Dimitry, I could understand completely about why Nick disappeared for all those years. So many secrets were kept throughout this book, but again, understandable, given the nature of what it wold mean if those secrets came to light. This is a dark read, but worth it. I highly recommend the entire series!
Wow! This one really hit me. It’s a really dark read and extremely violent, it’s gut wrenching, with gritty angst and emotions that take you by surprise. But through all this emotional turmoil I found this book to be an addictive read and impossible to put down. The writing and characters were amazing, and the intensely of the storyline holds true from start to finish making Retaliation a terrific read!
I highly recommend this book!
When you kill someone’s family they don’t have to be in the mob or be a natural born killer for them to seek RETALIATION. Oh, let’s not forget Kathy’s natural ability to work in those hot love scenes
Nikolai “Nick” Williams was taught to be a killer from a very young age. Yet he now rebels against the environment in which he grew up in and when he saw his best friend killed he vowed to get revenge on the killer, his father Dimitry Popov. Yet it wasn’t going to be easy and he had to lose everything in order to come back and have his revenge.
Blaire Warren had to pick up the pieces after her sister, Amanda, was killed and she knew it had something to do with her husband, Nick. Then Nick disappeared and she had to go on without the two of them for the net 14 years when Nick suddenly reappears.
Can Nick show Blaire he disappeared in order to keep her safe and can Blaire risk her heart being broken by Nick again when she knows how much he wants revenge?
This is the first book I have read by this author and I enjoyed it but I could tell there was some background information that I seemed to be missing a little bit.
I thought Nick was a great character and it was obvious how much he had been through in his life. He went through hell growing up and I was shocked at some of the things he had to endure. I could understand 100% on why he was out for revenge but I was very surprised at what he did to stay away from the influence of his father.
Blaire was a strong willed woman who had to get over her own heartbreak and find a way to keep going on after the death of her sister and the mystery surrounding her husband. Blaire had a good relationship with her brother, Caleb, but I was shocked at how much he had hidden from her in order to keep her safe.
There was so much tension and hurt between Blaire and Nick when they saw each other again and I really understood why Blaire was so guarded but I loved that Nick was never going to give up on her.
There were so many secrets that were revealed and I hated how evil Nick’s father, Dimitry was. There was nothing that man wouldn’t do in order to get his way or seek revenge on those he believed wronged him. He did not have loyalty to anyone but himself.
I was somewhat mixed on the revenge thing. I really wanted Nick to get revenge but I didn’t want it to damage him anymore than he already was due to his dad.
Things got so tense towards the end and my heart was breaking for Blaire and what she had to go through! Then I was so happy to know they got there on time!!
Things definitely ended as they should have and I look forward to more books by this author. – By Rebecca
5 Stars
Retaliation by Kathy Coopmans is the third book in the Vindicator series and OMG it was sooo good! It is a stand-alone novel but I do recommend reading the books in the series. Since meeting Nick in the previous books, I knew his story was going to put my heart through the wringer. And man did it ever. It was so emotional I had tears streaming down my face and my heart literally ached. Retaliation is full of revenge, forgiveness, family, and most importantly love.
Nick and Blaire have known each other since they were kids. Falling in love as teenagers, they thought they had their future planned out. But one man’s vicious and violent ways ruined those plans and forced them to go their separate ways. Now fourteen years later, Nick and Blaire have another shot. But will it be too late?
I seriously LOVED this story so much. Ms. Coopmans wrote a fantastic book that takes you on one emotional and crazy roller coaster. You will feel everything. You will cry and you will hope. Retaliation was amazing and I highly recommend reading it!
Retaliation is book 3 in the Vindicator series and what a dark, raw and gritty story it is!!! It is not for the faint of heart. This is Nick and Blaire’s story. Their’s is a 2nd chance at love after the heartbreaking way they were separated years before. Their love was pure and beautiful before it was tainted and ripped apart by powerful people who wanted them to be apart which the story tells. This is a story that tells of revenge, grief, heartbreak; pain, despair, anger, depression, death, denial, need, love, forgiveness, healing, chemistry and 2nd chance at HEA. This book is dark- not for the faint of heart but the feels are deep and OMG- My heart felt for Nick. The things that he went through were horrific and would send one over the edge yet his bright spot is Blaire. Blaire never loved another man but Nick- never felt such anger or rage towards another and that was Nick. The actions of that night by those people are what bring Nick and Blaire back together. Rollercoaster of emotions are rampant in this book so keep your tissues handy. It was good seeing previous characters and I liked that the pace was fluid, fast and never slow. I enjoyed the plot, characters and the way how everything happened. This is one book, series that you don’t want to miss out on!!!
My Rating: 4.8 stars ******
5 Killer Stars!!!
Holy smokes!!! I fell hard for Chaz and Cade in Vengeance and Warrant. I knew I’d fall for Nick but I couldn’t believe how hard I’d fall for him.
Nick has been missing a part of himself. It’s been missing for the last fourteen years. Nick Williams was born Nick Popov. His father Dimitri is an evil and vicious man. His lives and breathes kidnapping, raping, beating and selling woman. He planned on his son taking over the business. But, Nick met Blaire.
For the first time Nick knew what love was. He’d do anything to protect Blaire. When they were eighteen they got married. That night his life fell apart. In order to save Blaire’s life he had to leave. The only person who knew the truth of who Nick was is Blaire’s brother Caleb. He promised to keep her safe until Nick was able to comeback for her. It’s been fourteen years and the danger is at its highest and Nick’s tired of not having his wife. He’s back for her no matter the cost.
Blaire fell in love with Nick and married him and was looking forward to their future. Except the night they got married Nick disappeared and her younger sister was killed. It was just her and her brother Caleb. Blaire ended up doing research on who Nick’s dad was and learned things that made her sick. She’s mad she didn’t know everything about Nick. The things that he lived with.
Blaire’s been missing a huge part of herself. She went on to become a ruthless divorce attorney. She’ll fight for women that need it. It’s why when Roan Diamond and his wife show up with an amazing job offer, she’s conflicted. She knows about Roan and his empire rumors. But, she knows the ladies need her help.
Blaire couldn’t believe her eyes when her husband and brother are in her office. She’d been waiting for the day she’d see him again. But, knowing her brother knew everything and hadn’t told her anything she feels more than betrayed. Nick let’s her know he’s back for her, he’ll never give her a divorce and things won’t be easy but they’ll do it together.
The things Nick and Blaire have to go thru just to see the HEA sign is mind blowing!! Nick has so much going on in his head that he’s hardly able to keep things straight. But, he knows if he’s not focused it could cost the people he loves the most. Nick won’t let anybody else be hurt or killed by his father. As long as he’s got Blaire by his side he just might make it out alive.
This is the third book in the series. I’d read it in order bc you’ll def miss something’s. ESP Nick’s sister Jillian story bc you’ll understand certain things and you’ll feel what they’re going thru. And, you’ll get deeper into their dad. If you have triggers be careful going into this and the previous books.
I absolutely loved this story!!! Whenever I get more Roan I’m a happier girl lol. Nick was everything I’d expected and then add double to it. Blaire is the perfect match for him. Kathy wrote another amazing story. Now, I need Caleb’s story!!!