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Shattered Cove
Under My Skin
He’s afraid of blurring business with pleasure. She’s been hiding a painful secret. Will one night of sizzling passion change everything?
Tessa Mathews has been through hell and has the scars to prove it. So when the opportunity arises for a night in her business partner’s bed, she risks it all for one taste of reprieve from the loneliness that haunts her.
Roy has waited three years for his business partner and fellow tattoo artist, Tessa, to give him some sign that she was ready for more. So when his cousin’s wedding gives them an excuse to travel together, he jumps at the chance.
One night at a beachside inn changes everything.
But will Tessa’s secrets tear them apart when the sun rises?
Or will her scars scare him away for good?
Under My Skin is a spicy short story in the Shattered Cove world of A. M. Kusi. If you like friends to lovers, small town vibes, and sizzling romance between tattooed business partners, you will enjoy this quick read.
Curl up and start reading this romance short story right now!
Tessa Mathews has been through hell and has the scars to prove it. So when the opportunity arises for a night in her business partner’s bed, she risks it all for one taste of reprieve from the loneliness that haunts her.
Roy has waited three years for his business partner and fellow tattoo artist, Tessa, to give him some sign that she was ready for more. So when his cousin’s wedding gives them an excuse to travel together, he jumps at the chance.
One night at a beachside inn changes everything.
But will Tessa’s secrets tear them apart when the sun rises?
Or will her scars scare him away for good?
Under My Skin is a spicy short story in the Shattered Cove world of A. M. Kusi. If you like friends to lovers, small town vibes, and sizzling romance between tattooed business partners, you will enjoy this quick read.
Curl up and start reading this romance short story right now!
71 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2023
97 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Kusi
35 books172 followersA. M. Kusi is a wife-and-husband romance author team. Our novels feature diverse characters, are spicy, socially relevant, emotional, and always have a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 25, 2024
Wow this was beautiful. I loved Tessa and understood her being hesitant. Her ex-husband was truly the worst. However, Roy was amazing. What every man should be! I loved them together. I'm shook about the twist near the end. It's a short story that I truly didn't want to end! Has some good spicy moments too!
July 13, 2024
viciante!
Uma boa história de conforto. Adorei a química das personagens, a história envolvente eeeee boyfriend material here. Mesmo sendo uma história pequena, acaba por ter muito conteúdo e as personagens são completas
Uma boa história de conforto. Adorei a química das personagens, a história envolvente eeeee boyfriend material here. Mesmo sendo uma história pequena, acaba por ter muito conteúdo e as personagens são completas
October 15, 2023
❤️💋🔥❤️💋🔥
Ohhh, Roy... ohhhh Roy... what a bloody sweetheart of a man. The mirror section is just so beautiful, sweet n tearful, and heart felt. What every woman would love from a partner, words that truly build their confidence...
Ohhh, Roy... ohhhh Roy... what a bloody sweetheart of a man. The mirror section is just so beautiful, sweet n tearful, and heart felt. What every woman would love from a partner, words that truly build their confidence...
December 5, 2023
This author has quickly grabbed my attention with 2 of their (husband/wife team) novellas read in 2 days!!! I will be checking out allllll of the work now ❤️
July 8, 2024
Overall Rating:
2/5 stars
What can I say? It was a cute and smutty read. If you want a quick read with some spice, I’d say this would be a decent bet.
Not the worst book I’ve read but def not a favorite or anything either. Just kinda…meh.
What can I say? It was a cute and smutty read. If you want a quick read with some spice, I’d say this would be a decent bet.
Not the worst book I’ve read but def not a favorite or anything either. Just kinda…meh.
March 5, 2025
This was my first time reading a romance short story by the husband-and-wife duo A. M. Kusi, and I found their writing style captivating. The story follows Tessa Matthews, a newly divorced woman, and her undeniable attraction to her Irish tattoo business partner, Roy.
Tessa accompanies Roy as his plus-one to his cousin’s wedding, set against the scenic backdrop of Shattered Cove’s seacoast and the lush Emerson farmland. Their friend and receptionist, Bella, also attends as the unofficial third wheel, still grieving the loss of her husband. Encouraged by the idea of moving forward, Bella strikes a deal with Tessa: she’ll muster up the courage to talk to a handsome stranger if Tessa promises to finally let Roy give her the tattoo she’s always wanted. They both agree.
At the wedding, Bella meets her mystery man at the bar—describing him as “hotter than Hades”—while Tessa shares a dance with Roy. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and after a deep, passionate kiss, she decides to embrace the moment and spend one unforgettable night with him. Though self-conscious about her body, Tessa finds comfort in Roy’s attentiveness, leading to an intensely intimate and passionate encounter.
However, reality sets in once they return to Colorado. Tessa begins to withdraw, leaving Roy confused and determined to prove that their connection is more than just a one-night fling. He’s persistent in his pursuit, wanting nothing more than to make her his.
Overall, this was a quick, steamy read with just the right blend of spice and heartfelt storytelling. Told from both Tessa’s and Roy’s perspectives, the characters felt authentic, and their emotions rang true. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing, dialogue, and vivid descriptions. A great introduction to the rest of the series—two thumbs up!
Some of my favorite lines:
His low chuckle rumbled in his chest as he pulled her tighter against him sending heat sinking lower to her belly. One hand slid up her spine, cupped her neck and pulled her head against his shoulder. Her body relaxed into him. Tessa was putty in his hands.
He leaned in and inhaled the juncture of her neck. “You smell good, like usual. Like wild roses—my favorite.”
Tessa swallowed. Having him flirt with her was one thing. But having him do it while her body was plastered to his and they moved around the dance floor was another. Lust heated her blood as a shiver of hot and cold flashed through her.
Tessa accompanies Roy as his plus-one to his cousin’s wedding, set against the scenic backdrop of Shattered Cove’s seacoast and the lush Emerson farmland. Their friend and receptionist, Bella, also attends as the unofficial third wheel, still grieving the loss of her husband. Encouraged by the idea of moving forward, Bella strikes a deal with Tessa: she’ll muster up the courage to talk to a handsome stranger if Tessa promises to finally let Roy give her the tattoo she’s always wanted. They both agree.
At the wedding, Bella meets her mystery man at the bar—describing him as “hotter than Hades”—while Tessa shares a dance with Roy. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and after a deep, passionate kiss, she decides to embrace the moment and spend one unforgettable night with him. Though self-conscious about her body, Tessa finds comfort in Roy’s attentiveness, leading to an intensely intimate and passionate encounter.
However, reality sets in once they return to Colorado. Tessa begins to withdraw, leaving Roy confused and determined to prove that their connection is more than just a one-night fling. He’s persistent in his pursuit, wanting nothing more than to make her his.
Overall, this was a quick, steamy read with just the right blend of spice and heartfelt storytelling. Told from both Tessa’s and Roy’s perspectives, the characters felt authentic, and their emotions rang true. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing, dialogue, and vivid descriptions. A great introduction to the rest of the series—two thumbs up!
Some of my favorite lines:
His low chuckle rumbled in his chest as he pulled her tighter against him sending heat sinking lower to her belly. One hand slid up her spine, cupped her neck and pulled her head against his shoulder. Her body relaxed into him. Tessa was putty in his hands.
He leaned in and inhaled the juncture of her neck. “You smell good, like usual. Like wild roses—my favorite.”
Tessa swallowed. Having him flirt with her was one thing. But having him do it while her body was plastered to his and they moved around the dance floor was another. Lust heated her blood as a shiver of hot and cold flashed through her.
January 9, 2025
MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS:
This book was sweet mixed with spice. Warning you may shed a tear after the MFC opens up and the MMC responds back. Nothing matches the way this man talks to her! I have found my new book boyfriend. This is a short story.
MFC, Tessa Mathews, has been divorced for a year from a toxic human being (I can't even call him a man). He's scarred her deeper than any physical scar ever could.
There's this undeniable attraction between Tessa & her business partner, MMC, Roy. Can Tessa get past everything her ex has made her believe about herself? Or are the scars in her mind to deep?
Short Story - read in one sitting
Third Person POV
Emotional Abuse by ex (off page)
Resilient MFC
Supporting & Loving MMC (whose IRISH)
SMUT 🥵
Love At First Sight (at least for one of them)
Cinnamon Roll
Book Boyfriend
Healing Old Wounds
HEA
Warning you may shed a few tears!
**GETTING YOU TO READ WITH SOME OF MY FAVORITE QUOTES***
"I don't want to hear about any other man you've been with. I'm gonna make you forget every single man who's laid a hand on this sexy body. And unless you tell me no, I'm gonna lick this pu$$y until you scream out my name.. at least twice." 🥵
"You’re gonna stand here and let me tell you what I see. And we’re gonna keep doing this until one day, you don’t need me to show you. Until you believe it for yourself. For now, I’ll believe enough for the both of us." 🥺
“Love stays when you’re sick. Love keeps promises. It’s loyal and trustworthy. Patient and kind. Love puts your needs first. That’s what I have for you if you’ll let me give it . . . If you do, every single day I’ll prove to you how much I love you with my actions as well as my words until you have no doubt just how much this heart beats for you.” ❤️
"Like the ink on my neck, you’re under my skin—and like all my tats, you’re forever, a stór.” 😍
This book was sweet mixed with spice. Warning you may shed a tear after the MFC opens up and the MMC responds back. Nothing matches the way this man talks to her! I have found my new book boyfriend. This is a short story.
MFC, Tessa Mathews, has been divorced for a year from a toxic human being (I can't even call him a man). He's scarred her deeper than any physical scar ever could.
There's this undeniable attraction between Tessa & her business partner, MMC, Roy. Can Tessa get past everything her ex has made her believe about herself? Or are the scars in her mind to deep?
Short Story - read in one sitting
Third Person POV
Emotional Abuse by ex (off page)
Resilient MFC
Supporting & Loving MMC (whose IRISH)
SMUT 🥵
Love At First Sight (at least for one of them)
Cinnamon Roll
Book Boyfriend
Healing Old Wounds
HEA
Warning you may shed a few tears!
**GETTING YOU TO READ WITH SOME OF MY FAVORITE QUOTES***
"I don't want to hear about any other man you've been with. I'm gonna make you forget every single man who's laid a hand on this sexy body. And unless you tell me no, I'm gonna lick this pu$$y until you scream out my name.. at least twice." 🥵
"You’re gonna stand here and let me tell you what I see. And we’re gonna keep doing this until one day, you don’t need me to show you. Until you believe it for yourself. For now, I’ll believe enough for the both of us." 🥺
“Love stays when you’re sick. Love keeps promises. It’s loyal and trustworthy. Patient and kind. Love puts your needs first. That’s what I have for you if you’ll let me give it . . . If you do, every single day I’ll prove to you how much I love you with my actions as well as my words until you have no doubt just how much this heart beats for you.” ❤️
"Like the ink on my neck, you’re under my skin—and like all my tats, you’re forever, a stór.” 😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2025
so sweet!
First off I love that this story was written by a husband and wife duo. I do have to say that I was originally attracted to this story because it was on the shorter side. Sometimes I need a fast romance and this was perfect. I don’t really like third person when It comes to romance (just my preference) but I did find myself getting so into the story that it didn’t feel like third person at all.
At first I was confused with the way Roy talked but when I said it in my head with an Irish accent it made sense…and yes I really did do that 😂 I love the character development for Tessa in this and Roy was the best man for her. He was so sweet, patience, and loving. He is one of the men in the ten percent that truly are good 🥰
I am curious to read about Isabelle’s story so I will be checking out the other books in this series!!
First off I love that this story was written by a husband and wife duo. I do have to say that I was originally attracted to this story because it was on the shorter side. Sometimes I need a fast romance and this was perfect. I don’t really like third person when It comes to romance (just my preference) but I did find myself getting so into the story that it didn’t feel like third person at all.
At first I was confused with the way Roy talked but when I said it in my head with an Irish accent it made sense…and yes I really did do that 😂 I love the character development for Tessa in this and Roy was the best man for her. He was so sweet, patience, and loving. He is one of the men in the ten percent that truly are good 🥰
I am curious to read about Isabelle’s story so I will be checking out the other books in this series!!
June 14, 2025
4⭐️ A short romance story.
After that day, she becomes an incomplete woman. After that day, she no longer looks for long term relationship. She just wants to have one night with him. However, he takes that night seriously.
——
“I hope you never have to get sick another day in your life, but if you do, I’ll be there to hold you when you’re too tired. I’ll roll you joints when you’re too nauseous. And I’ll be the dope who shaves his head until your hair grows out too.”
“Love stays when you’re sick. Love keeps promises. It’s loyal and trustworthy. Patient and kind. Love puts your needs first. That’s what I have for you if you’ll let me give it . . . If you do, every single day I’ll prove to you how much I love you with my actions as well as my words until you have no doubt just how much this heart beats for you.”
“For you, always. Like the ink on my neck, you’re under my skin—and like all my tats, you’re forever, a stór.”
After that day, she becomes an incomplete woman. After that day, she no longer looks for long term relationship. She just wants to have one night with him. However, he takes that night seriously.
——
“I hope you never have to get sick another day in your life, but if you do, I’ll be there to hold you when you’re too tired. I’ll roll you joints when you’re too nauseous. And I’ll be the dope who shaves his head until your hair grows out too.”
“Love stays when you’re sick. Love keeps promises. It’s loyal and trustworthy. Patient and kind. Love puts your needs first. That’s what I have for you if you’ll let me give it . . . If you do, every single day I’ll prove to you how much I love you with my actions as well as my words until you have no doubt just how much this heart beats for you.”
“For you, always. Like the ink on my neck, you’re under my skin—and like all my tats, you’re forever, a stór.”
May 19, 2024
Its very short with a little bit of spice, romance with the MMC mentally saving the MFC from her ex's treatment. Being so short a lot of character buildup is lost and when the ex is mentioned you've kinda gotta fill in the gaps yourself, as if the audience already knows the character. Having said that i can imagine this storyline (the business romance, tattoo request (and its reason which is a beautiful reason and leads into some body worship and positive body image), the rebuilding of trust) being really good!
June 13, 2025
5 Stars
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to gain a new mmc crush. ROY is honestly the most perfect book boyfriend. 🥰
this right here “Love stays when you’re sick. Love keeps promises. It’s loyal and trustworthy. Patient and kind. Love puts your needs first. That’s what I have for you if you’ll let me give it . . . If you do, every single day I’ll prove to you how much I love you with my actions as well as my words until you have no doubt just how much this heart beats for you.” ahh my heart.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to gain a new mmc crush. ROY is honestly the most perfect book boyfriend. 🥰
this right here “Love stays when you’re sick. Love keeps promises. It’s loyal and trustworthy. Patient and kind. Love puts your needs first. That’s what I have for you if you’ll let me give it . . . If you do, every single day I’ll prove to you how much I love you with my actions as well as my words until you have no doubt just how much this heart beats for you.” ahh my heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2023
Sweet short story about two business partners who finally have a night of passion, and have to decide where to go from there.
Caveat: I wish the book would've been longer!
Will check out more from this author.
Caveat: I wish the book would've been longer!
Will check out more from this author.
January 14, 2024
Under My Skin was amazing!
Under My Skin, Book 8.5 of the Shattered Cove series by A.M. Kusi @amkusinovels.
Just wow! Yet another amazing book by Ash & Marcus. Yet again, a hard topic, which they always do so well.
Readers, if you want romance with HEA & no cheating, this is the author for you. Just know that their books always tackle hard topics. But necessary topics. They do not write fluff.
Under My Skin, Book 8.5 of the Shattered Cove series by A.M. Kusi @amkusinovels.
Just wow! Yet another amazing book by Ash & Marcus. Yet again, a hard topic, which they always do so well.
Readers, if you want romance with HEA & no cheating, this is the author for you. Just know that their books always tackle hard topics. But necessary topics. They do not write fluff.
March 19, 2024
I breezed through this book just like the first one. It's a fantastic and quick read, I loved every bit of it. It's a steamy friends/business partners-to-lovers short story. I appreciate how the story illustrates that the right person can bring out the best in you, regardless of any scars. It emphasises the significance of reassurance and fulfilling each other's needs. The steamy scenes are just perfectly detailed.
Read
May 18, 2024I’m all-in on this writing duo. The balance between spice and emotional intimacy was immaculate. BUT-but!! We never got to see her get her tattoo?!!!!! And I thought that’s what we were building towards? So I was a little let down by that, but also this was a novella that brought me to the brink of tears and that absolutely does not happen so I’ll be continuing in the series to get emotionally wrecked.
November 4, 2025
They finally made a move.
Roy and Tessa are attracted to each other, but as business partners, they don't want to ruin their relationship. A wedding, a dare and one slow dance change everything. Their connection is an inferno of desire that scorches any thought they don't belong together, even if she is scared. He will prove she's a precious treasure and claim his woman. So steamy and good.
Roy and Tessa are attracted to each other, but as business partners, they don't want to ruin their relationship. A wedding, a dare and one slow dance change everything. Their connection is an inferno of desire that scorches any thought they don't belong together, even if she is scared. He will prove she's a precious treasure and claim his woman. So steamy and good.
September 24, 2023
I’m gonna give this a 2.75⭐️. Now the reason why I’m giving this rating isn’t because the story is bad. It’s actually really good but I don’t think it’s befitting for a short story. It’s too heavy. This should have been a full length novel! If it had been it’d been at least a 4⭐️!!
The way it was compacted didn’t feel like it did the plot or characters justice, which is such a shame!!
The way it was compacted didn’t feel like it did the plot or characters justice, which is such a shame!!
October 4, 2023
sweet second chance
Tessa had an awful ex who hurt her and her confidence. Roy has had eyes for Tessa for 3 years and finally at a wedding she wanted a taste of wanted. But she had rules and Roy listened and followed them but she acted different the next day. She avoided him all the time till he got her but was ready for pity. So she ran.
Tessa had an awful ex who hurt her and her confidence. Roy has had eyes for Tessa for 3 years and finally at a wedding she wanted a taste of wanted. But she had rules and Roy listened and followed them but she acted different the next day. She avoided him all the time till he got her but was ready for pity. So she ran.
October 15, 2025
Tessa gives in to desire and spends a night with Roy, her business partner.
Roy finally gets his way and seduces the beautiful Tessa, turning years of flirtatious comments into a sensual night together.
Or perhaps a little more?
But when the next day comes, how will the 2 lovers regard themselves and each other?
And what comes next?
Beautifully written
Roy finally gets his way and seduces the beautiful Tessa, turning years of flirtatious comments into a sensual night together.
Or perhaps a little more?
But when the next day comes, how will the 2 lovers regard themselves and each other?
And what comes next?
Beautifully written
December 24, 2023
This mostly a romance (not my preferred genre) but with it’s more serious subplot this made a good short story / novelette. I appreciate authors who can write a complete, interesting story, develop characters and wrap up the plot in so few words.
August 21, 2024
Shorty, Spice and wow
This was good ..it was short and spicy but wasn't expecting what secret was. ..one night of sex turned into a relationship she didn't even know was there ..trying to keep her
Secret not knowing how he would react and turns he loved just the way she was.
This was good ..it was short and spicy but wasn't expecting what secret was. ..one night of sex turned into a relationship she didn't even know was there ..trying to keep her
Secret not knowing how he would react and turns he loved just the way she was.
October 8, 2024
LOVED IT ❤👍
I absolutely loved and enjoyed reading this story loved the characters too. This was such a good sweet and heart warming read. I would absolutely recommend reading this book. Great job Ms. Kusi,and thank you for writing this story. 👍🙏
I absolutely loved and enjoyed reading this story loved the characters too. This was such a good sweet and heart warming read. I would absolutely recommend reading this book. Great job Ms. Kusi,and thank you for writing this story. 👍🙏
September 24, 2023
Under My Skin
Quite interesting. Glad to see this couple writing these romances. Love it. Will dig further into other volumes. Keep them coming.
Quite interesting. Glad to see this couple writing these romances. Love it. Will dig further into other volumes. Keep them coming.
September 27, 2023
Such a great story. The only thing I would change is making it longer. This was my first read for this author but I am definitely going to dig into the series.
February 10, 2024
Pretty good read. Short story and easy to read quickly. Roy is a good guy that cares deeply. Confidence building story. It is ok to embrace who you are!
August 22, 2024
cute short read about angst and friendship and mutual pining. it was direct to the point and no swerves or turns <3 breast cancer representation as well.
January 1, 2025
I really liked this short story. I liked that this author was able to make me connect with the characters in less than a hundred pages. I will definitely read others from this author.
February 24, 2025
It's a cute short story
March 30, 2025
Fast read. Had some depth to both of the main characters which I appreciated for such a short story. Steamy scenes were great but also very tender at times.
June 6, 2025
I enjoyed this book. She is a very good writer on intimate things.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews