Damaged Goods by L.J. Shen
All Saints High Series #4
4.0 / 5 Stars
389 Pages
Originally Published in 2024
Finished Reading on April 3, 2024
When it comes to L.J. Shen’s All Saints High series, I always know I’m in for a rollercoaster of emotions, angsty drama, and characters so real they practically leap off the page. Damaged Goods, Bailey’s story, is no exception.
As I sipped my third coffee of the day (what can I say, I’m a Capricorn – I need caffeine to tackle my emotional reads like this), I couldn’t help but brace myself for the beautifully messy journey Shen is so skilled at delivering
“Life didn’t break me. I broke myself trying to fit into a world that was never mine to being with”
What I Loved
Bailey’s transformation in Damaged Goods is everything. Her journey from self-doubt to self-worth was so raw and powerful. Shen has a way of writing female characters that are deeply flawed yet incredibly strong, and as an Aries Moon, I can appreciate a protagonist with fire and resilience.
The chemistry between Bailey and Vaughn was electric. Their dynamic was a perfect mix of vulnerability, tension, and undeniable attraction. Vaughn’s quiet intensity made him a standout love interest, and their push-and-pull relationship felt heartbreakingly authentic.
And lets not forget Shen’s signature writing style – equal parts lyrical and cutting, with just enough humor to break up the angst.
“He looked at me like I was the most beautiful wreck he’d ever seen, and I didn’t know whether to run or stay.”
What I Didn’t Love
While I adored Bailey’s story, there were moments where the pacing felt uneven. Some chapters moved quickly, while others dragged, leaving me craving a bit more consistency.
Additionally, a few side characters (though intriguing) didn’t feel fully fleshed out, which left me wanting to know more about their connections to Bailey’s life.
“Sometimes, healing isn’t about forgetting the past – it’s about building something stronger from the ruins.”
Final Thoughts
Damaged Goods explores themes of self-discovery, redemption, an the courage it takes to love when you feel unworthy. Shen captures the complexities of healing after trauma and embracing your true self, cracks and all. This story is a reminder that the people who love us don’t just see our flaws – they see the beauty in them.
This book is for:
- Fans of angsty, emotional romances
- Readers who love slow-burns with flawed, but compelling characters
- Anyone who loves reading Colleen Hoover, Tarryn Fisher, or Meghan Quinn
Damaged Goods is a deeply moving, character-driven story that will leave you thinking about Bailey and Vaughn long after the final page. Though it has a few pacing issues, it’s still a stunning addition to the All Saints High universe.
Solid 4/5 stars – and a must-read for fans of L.J. Shen!
If you read this book, what were your thoughts?