What do you think?
Rate this book
The Leaves #2
Cole
Cole Carlyle, successful hotelier, has lived his life on his own terms.
Burned by a gold digging ex-wife, he never expected to find his soul mate in Anika “Inky” Redding.
Anika Redding, talented artist, overcame her past to live her life free of shame. Betrayed by people she thought she could trust, the last thing she expected was to find true love in Cole Carlyle.
Their love for each other has helped them overcome their demons before, but now faced with an unimaginable challenge, Cole must turn to the last person he wants involved in his life, and hope that those demons don’t once again try to swallow them whole.
Inky and Cole’s romance and passion ignite and in the sequel to “Inky” we follow their journey to overcome their pasts once and for all, while building their love into something everlasting.
Burned by a gold digging ex-wife, he never expected to find his soul mate in Anika “Inky” Redding.
Anika Redding, talented artist, overcame her past to live her life free of shame. Betrayed by people she thought she could trust, the last thing she expected was to find true love in Cole Carlyle.
Their love for each other has helped them overcome their demons before, but now faced with an unimaginable challenge, Cole must turn to the last person he wants involved in his life, and hope that those demons don’t once again try to swallow them whole.
Inky and Cole’s romance and passion ignite and in the sequel to “Inky” we follow their journey to overcome their pasts once and for all, while building their love into something everlasting.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2013
18 people are currently reading
1025 people want to read
About the author
J.B. Hartnett
8 books350 followersJulie is a southern California native, a fan of a really good story (preferably a romance with a happily ever after), really good pie (preferably pumpkin)and copious amounts of coffee (preferably Folgers).
She has always enjoyed writing and at one time thought she might be a singer/songwriter. The 'writer' part is that one that stuck.
Julie is obsessed with Pi...the equation and the food. She's allergic to cats, cantaloupe and hates mushrooms. So if you ever want to give her a gift, those are out for sure.
She currently lives with her romance hero husband and two boys in Melbourne, Australia.
She has always enjoyed writing and at one time thought she might be a singer/songwriter. The 'writer' part is that one that stuck.
Julie is obsessed with Pi...the equation and the food. She's allergic to cats, cantaloupe and hates mushrooms. So if you ever want to give her a gift, those are out for sure.
She currently lives with her romance hero husband and two boys in Melbourne, Australia.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
September 20, 2013
So freaking good I had a book hangover like you wouldn't believe. This is a continuation of Inky and Cole's story from book 1 and the author does not disappoint. There is suspense, love, hate, hurt, tears, super hot love scenes and adoration between the two main characters made me jealous as all hell. There is also at least one scene where I laughed out loud at the antics of the characters and a parents scene that has to be read to be believed. Make sure you grab this book and book 1 for an awesome journey that will stick with you well after the last page.
September 21, 2013
Joint Reviewed: http://totallybookedblog.com/2013/09/...
4.5 Stars
Jenny: Well G, after being left with that heart pounding cliffy in Inky, we were certainly hanging out for Cole weren’t we? So many questions to be answered and we really couldn’t wait to see if these two were afforded their closure they so desperately and rightly deserved.
‘He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other.’ - Anika
Cole certainly started out on a drama induced moment and reading those first two chapters were indeed heartbreaking and heart stopping that’s for sure! What a way to start a book! How much more did this couple have to endure? I felt so sorry for both Inky and Cole. They really do share such a strong bond and they absolutely deserve a break don’t they G?
Gitte: Absolutely yes!! I’m so glad we didn’t have to wait too long for Cole after that cliffy. My heart broke in Inky and I was desperate for it to be fixed again in Cole. I can’t believe how intense Cole started out, it was dramatic and heartbreaking but so overwhelmingly emotional too in a good way I suppose. Cole and Inky really did deserve calm, happy and togetherness without life throwing any more crap their way. They’ve suffered enough. Their love so incredibly strong and being so truly emotionally connected that yeah Jenny, they needed to be safe and get their happy!
“Yes. No matter what happens. That’s my answer if something goes wrong. I love you, forever baby. Forever.” ~ Anika
I have to say that not only did I frantically turn the pages because of the suspense and drama, I also laughed my arse off in certain scenes and swooned to the max in others. Cole just had that perfect balance to keep me addicted and unable to put my kindle down.
Jenny: Anika (Inky) completely stole our hearts in book one didn’t she G? We adored this quirky, tenacious, damaged, beautiful girl who had been dealt such a rough hand in life. Possessing a beauty inside and out, here was a woman who deserved it all. Inky really was remarkable that’s for sure. Above all else, Inky especially deserved love, and in Cole, she would find exactly that. Here was a man who truly, deeply and madly loved her, needed her and was there to protect her and cherish her at all costs. What a guy! Loved him and he is no less than Inky deserved.
“But it’s waking up next to him, and hearing him breathe and knowing he would slay a dragon if he had to for me…” ~ Anika
Yes, this man certainly did shower love and affection on her and understood Inky and her pain as no other would. The bond between them was so strong, so He was her soul mate in every sense of the word and I was completely swept away with their love story. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: Seriously love Anika. She really is so incredibly strong despite everything she’s had to go through and still does to an extent. She has such lovability that as a reader you just wanted her to be safe. How could you not cry for her and laugh with her? This girl is amazing! The love she found with Cole was breathtaking at times. The love so intense, pure and unconditional that there was no question these two were soul mates! Their love was all encompassing and their relationship was not only intensely emotional, it was fun and sizzling too!
“I had no doubt Cole would do everything possible to save me. He would move, not just mountains, but continents to save me. He already had. He had healed wounds that had laid dormant in me for so long…” ~ Anika
Jenny: Now Cole. Wow! This man! I’m in love, lust..you name it, with this guy! Cole had such a beautiful heart. Cole was the whole package! The way he treated Inky melted me. Handsome, rich and who had the most wonderful giving and gentle nature, especially where Inky was concerned.
‘Amazing that in such a short time, Anika had made memories for me here.’ ~Cole
You truly believed this man would be nothing and would not want anything in this life unless it revolved around Anika. He loved her without exception and it was so beautiful witnessing Inky and Cole understand each other’s needs and want. To be able to anticipate what the other wanted. It was mesmerising.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole.” ~ Anika
Both Anika and Cole are so damaged from events in their pasts and throughout this story we reveal little by little the demons inside Cole. I have to say, after witnessing Inky’s demons, Cole’s, though painful and awful, were nothing of the scale of poor Inky’s, though my heart really did go out to him. After all, there is no level of pain. Pain is pain and each person’s difficult and to be respected. How did you feel when we learn of Cole’s demons G?
Gitte: Seriously Jenny I’m in complete love with Cole. In fact….so many times whilst reading, I wish I could have clicked my heels and jumped into the story. This man is sickeningly perfect. Imperfectly perfect. His heart is huge and despite his own demons his sole aim is to rid Inky of hers. It was beautiful.
“I sang to her….She said it saved her. I have to save her. All I want to do is protect her…” ~ Cole
Cole is a beautiful man who just loves with such intensity, no holds barred and has such understanding and meticulous attention to detail, needs and wants of the woman he loves. Cole’s back story did upset me and my heart broke for him too Jenny. Of course it did. And again, I was so overwhelmed by the way these two people could love and heal like they did in each other’s strength and arms. Truly heartbreaking yet inspirational beauty at the same time.
“When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I’m beautiful every day. He’s gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul….without him, I’m incomplete.” ~ Anika
Jenny: Ahhh, love that quote! There were times in Cole when I sobbed. A scene in particular was handled with such vivid imagery and description that in my head I witnessed every heartbreaking and beautiful moment as if I was watching it in a movie. If I thought I loved Cole before….well, what he did for Inky at this time too it to another level. What a truly beautiful man he was and the love he feels for this woman is felt with every breath.
“Cole?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t ever leave me.”
I really did enjoy this instalment and witnessing Inky and Cole deal with their pain, sharing their love, their laughter and the sheer magnitude of the feelings between Cole and Inky tugged at my heart.
I will say I was a little disappointed with the epilogue. It wasn’t what I expected but I can understand why it went that way. It’s a personal thing for me what I love in an epilogue but I have to stress, this in no way impacted on how much I loved this wonderfully written and truly moving story about opening up, trusting and finding your soul mate. Cole was sexy, funny, vivid and a wonderful read. I cried with them, I laughed with them – and I especially laughed with Inky and Aimes. Love those two!
You truly do wish, with every heartbeat that these two find the peace, serenity and happiness they deserve. We’ll be looking out for more from this author in the future won’t we G? Yep! J.B. Hartnett is on our list of faves that’s for sure! Inky, Anika and crew….you’ve stolen my heart.
‘But my revenge is to be happy.’ ~ Anika
Gitte: This Author sure knows how to draw every emotion out of you and her characters worm their way into your heart with their loving and heart-wrenching actions, none more so than Cole! This man is just amazing and his love for Inky is astoundingly beautiful.
This was our fate. Her ugliness and mine made us fit.” ~ Cole
Two completely broken souls that find in each other what they’re missing…what they need. Find a love that is so all encompassing that even when yes, their pasts makes them doubt or back off they know that this is it. This is the ultimate of loves, their redemption and their future…they’re breath and their beating hearts.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole. We’ve both been so hurt by people that were supposed to love us unconditionally. It makes us doubt our worth….” ~ Anika
I loved the secondary characters. Cole’s parents really shone in this story and one scene in particular involving them had me in fits of laughter. Oh, and I have a real soft spot for Nico and David too. Especially Nico, he intrigues me!!
“Yeah, he knows how to get the demons out of your soul and onto your skin.”
So yeah, I loved this second instalment and J.B. Hartnett has without doubt become an automatic one-click for me with this series!
ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review
4.5 Stars
Jenny: Well G, after being left with that heart pounding cliffy in Inky, we were certainly hanging out for Cole weren’t we? So many questions to be answered and we really couldn’t wait to see if these two were afforded their closure they so desperately and rightly deserved.
‘He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other.’ - Anika
Cole certainly started out on a drama induced moment and reading those first two chapters were indeed heartbreaking and heart stopping that’s for sure! What a way to start a book! How much more did this couple have to endure? I felt so sorry for both Inky and Cole. They really do share such a strong bond and they absolutely deserve a break don’t they G?
Gitte: Absolutely yes!! I’m so glad we didn’t have to wait too long for Cole after that cliffy. My heart broke in Inky and I was desperate for it to be fixed again in Cole. I can’t believe how intense Cole started out, it was dramatic and heartbreaking but so overwhelmingly emotional too in a good way I suppose. Cole and Inky really did deserve calm, happy and togetherness without life throwing any more crap their way. They’ve suffered enough. Their love so incredibly strong and being so truly emotionally connected that yeah Jenny, they needed to be safe and get their happy!
“Yes. No matter what happens. That’s my answer if something goes wrong. I love you, forever baby. Forever.” ~ Anika
I have to say that not only did I frantically turn the pages because of the suspense and drama, I also laughed my arse off in certain scenes and swooned to the max in others. Cole just had that perfect balance to keep me addicted and unable to put my kindle down.
Jenny: Anika (Inky) completely stole our hearts in book one didn’t she G? We adored this quirky, tenacious, damaged, beautiful girl who had been dealt such a rough hand in life. Possessing a beauty inside and out, here was a woman who deserved it all. Inky really was remarkable that’s for sure. Above all else, Inky especially deserved love, and in Cole, she would find exactly that. Here was a man who truly, deeply and madly loved her, needed her and was there to protect her and cherish her at all costs. What a guy! Loved him and he is no less than Inky deserved.
“But it’s waking up next to him, and hearing him breathe and knowing he would slay a dragon if he had to for me…” ~ Anika
Yes, this man certainly did shower love and affection on her and understood Inky and her pain as no other would. The bond between them was so strong, so He was her soul mate in every sense of the word and I was completely swept away with their love story. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: Seriously love Anika. She really is so incredibly strong despite everything she’s had to go through and still does to an extent. She has such lovability that as a reader you just wanted her to be safe. How could you not cry for her and laugh with her? This girl is amazing! The love she found with Cole was breathtaking at times. The love so intense, pure and unconditional that there was no question these two were soul mates! Their love was all encompassing and their relationship was not only intensely emotional, it was fun and sizzling too!
“I had no doubt Cole would do everything possible to save me. He would move, not just mountains, but continents to save me. He already had. He had healed wounds that had laid dormant in me for so long…” ~ Anika
Jenny: Now Cole. Wow! This man! I’m in love, lust..you name it, with this guy! Cole had such a beautiful heart. Cole was the whole package! The way he treated Inky melted me. Handsome, rich and who had the most wonderful giving and gentle nature, especially where Inky was concerned.
‘Amazing that in such a short time, Anika had made memories for me here.’ ~Cole
You truly believed this man would be nothing and would not want anything in this life unless it revolved around Anika. He loved her without exception and it was so beautiful witnessing Inky and Cole understand each other’s needs and want. To be able to anticipate what the other wanted. It was mesmerising.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole.” ~ Anika
Both Anika and Cole are so damaged from events in their pasts and throughout this story we reveal little by little the demons inside Cole. I have to say, after witnessing Inky’s demons, Cole’s, though painful and awful, were nothing of the scale of poor Inky’s, though my heart really did go out to him. After all, there is no level of pain. Pain is pain and each person’s difficult and to be respected. How did you feel when we learn of Cole’s demons G?
Gitte: Seriously Jenny I’m in complete love with Cole. In fact….so many times whilst reading, I wish I could have clicked my heels and jumped into the story. This man is sickeningly perfect. Imperfectly perfect. His heart is huge and despite his own demons his sole aim is to rid Inky of hers. It was beautiful.
“I sang to her….She said it saved her. I have to save her. All I want to do is protect her…” ~ Cole
Cole is a beautiful man who just loves with such intensity, no holds barred and has such understanding and meticulous attention to detail, needs and wants of the woman he loves. Cole’s back story did upset me and my heart broke for him too Jenny. Of course it did. And again, I was so overwhelmed by the way these two people could love and heal like they did in each other’s strength and arms. Truly heartbreaking yet inspirational beauty at the same time.
“When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I’m beautiful every day. He’s gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul….without him, I’m incomplete.” ~ Anika
Jenny: Ahhh, love that quote! There were times in Cole when I sobbed. A scene in particular was handled with such vivid imagery and description that in my head I witnessed every heartbreaking and beautiful moment as if I was watching it in a movie. If I thought I loved Cole before….well, what he did for Inky at this time too it to another level. What a truly beautiful man he was and the love he feels for this woman is felt with every breath.
“Cole?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t ever leave me.”
I really did enjoy this instalment and witnessing Inky and Cole deal with their pain, sharing their love, their laughter and the sheer magnitude of the feelings between Cole and Inky tugged at my heart.
I will say I was a little disappointed with the epilogue. It wasn’t what I expected but I can understand why it went that way. It’s a personal thing for me what I love in an epilogue but I have to stress, this in no way impacted on how much I loved this wonderfully written and truly moving story about opening up, trusting and finding your soul mate. Cole was sexy, funny, vivid and a wonderful read. I cried with them, I laughed with them – and I especially laughed with Inky and Aimes. Love those two!
You truly do wish, with every heartbeat that these two find the peace, serenity and happiness they deserve. We’ll be looking out for more from this author in the future won’t we G? Yep! J.B. Hartnett is on our list of faves that’s for sure! Inky, Anika and crew….you’ve stolen my heart.
‘But my revenge is to be happy.’ ~ Anika
Gitte: This Author sure knows how to draw every emotion out of you and her characters worm their way into your heart with their loving and heart-wrenching actions, none more so than Cole! This man is just amazing and his love for Inky is astoundingly beautiful.
This was our fate. Her ugliness and mine made us fit.” ~ Cole
Two completely broken souls that find in each other what they’re missing…what they need. Find a love that is so all encompassing that even when yes, their pasts makes them doubt or back off they know that this is it. This is the ultimate of loves, their redemption and their future…they’re breath and their beating hearts.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole. We’ve both been so hurt by people that were supposed to love us unconditionally. It makes us doubt our worth….” ~ Anika
I loved the secondary characters. Cole’s parents really shone in this story and one scene in particular involving them had me in fits of laughter. Oh, and I have a real soft spot for Nico and David too. Especially Nico, he intrigues me!!
“Yeah, he knows how to get the demons out of your soul and onto your skin.”
So yeah, I loved this second instalment and J.B. Hartnett has without doubt become an automatic one-click for me with this series!
ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review
September 21, 2013
4.5..loved it stars
Jointly reviewed for : http://totallybookedblog.com/
Jenny: Well G, after being left with that heart pounding cliffy in Inky, we were certainly hanging out for Cole weren’t we? So many questions to be answered and we really couldn’t wait to see if these two were afforded their closure they so desperately and rightly deserved.
‘He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other.’ - Anika
Cole certainly started out on a drama induced moment and reading those first two chapters were indeed heartbreaking and heart stopping that’s for sure! What a way to start a book! How much more did this couple have to endure? I felt so sorry for both Inky and Cole. They really do share such a strong bond and they absolutely deserve a break don’t they G?
Gitte: Absolutely yes!! I’m so glad we didn’t have to wait too long for Cole after that cliffy. My heart broke in Inky and I was desperate for it to be fixed again in Cole. I can’t believe how intense Cole started out, it was dramatic and heartbreaking but so overwhelmingly emotional too in a good way I suppose. Cole and Inky really did deserve calm, happy and togetherness without life throwing any more crap their way. They’ve suffered enough. Their love so incredibly strong and being so truly emotionally connected that yeah Jenny, they needed to be safe and get their happy!
“Yes. No matter what happens. That’s my answer if something goes wrong. I love you, forever baby. Forever.” ~ Anika
I have to say that not only did I frantically turn the pages because of the suspense and drama, I also laughed my arse off in certain scenes and swooned to the max in others. Cole just had that perfect balance to keep me addicted and unable to put my kindle down.
Jenny: Anika (Inky) completely stole our hearts in book one didn’t she G? We adored this quirky, tenacious, damaged, beautiful girl who had been dealt such a rough hand in life. Possessing a beauty inside and out, here was a woman who deserved it all. Inky really was remarkable that’s for sure. Above all else, Inky especially deserved love, and in Cole, she would find exactly that. Here was a man who truly, deeply and madly loved her, needed her and was there to protect her and cherish her at all costs. What a guy! Loved him and he is no less than Inky deserved.
“But it’s waking up next to him, and hearing him breathe and knowing he would slay a dragon if he had to for me…” ~ Anika
Yes, this man certainly did shower love and affection on her and understood Inky and her pain as no other would. The bond between them was so strong, so He was her soul mate in every sense of the word and I was completely swept away with their love story. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: Seriously love Anika. She really is so incredibly strong despite everything she’s had to go through and still does to an extent. She has such lovability that as a reader you just wanted her to be safe. How could you not cry for her and laugh with her? This girl is amazing! The love she found with Cole was breathtaking at times. The love so intense, pure and unconditional that there was no question these two were soul mates! Their love was all encompassing and their relationship was not only intensely emotional, it was fun and sizzling too!
“I had no doubt Cole would do everything possible to save me. He would move, not just mountains, but continents to save me. He already had. He had healed wounds that had laid dormant in me for so long…” ~ Anika
Jenny: Now Cole. Wow! This man! I’m in love, lust..you name it, with this guy! Cole had such a beautiful heart. Cole was the whole package! The way he treated Inky melted me. Handsome, rich and who had the most wonderful giving and gentle nature, especially where Inky was concerned.
‘Amazing that in such a short time, Anika had made memories for me here.’ ~Cole
You truly believed this man would be nothing and would not want anything in this life unless it revolved around Anika. He loved her without exception and it was so beautiful witnessing Inky and Cole understand each other’s needs and want. To be able to anticipate what the other wanted. It was mesmerising.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole.” ~ Anika
Both Anika and Cole are so damaged from events in their pasts and throughout this story we reveal little by little the demons inside Cole. I have to say, after witnessing Inky’s demons, Cole’s, though painful and awful, were nothing of the scale of poor Inky’s, though my heart really did go out to him. After all, there is no level of pain. Pain is pain and each person’s difficult and to be respected. How did you feel when we learn of Cole’s demons G?
Gitte: Seriously Jenny I’m in complete love with Cole. In fact….so many times whilst reading, I wish I could have clicked my heels and jumped into the story. This man is sickeningly perfect. Imperfectly perfect. His heart is huge and despite his own demons his sole aim is to rid Inky of hers. It was beautiful.
“I sang to her….She said it saved her. I have to save her. All I want to do is protect her…” ~ Cole
Cole is a beautiful man who just loves with such intensity, no holds barred and has such understanding and meticulous attention to detail, needs and wants of the woman he loves. Cole’s back story did upset me and my heart broke for him too Jenny. Of course it did. And again, I was so overwhelmed by the way these two people could love and heal like they did in each other’s strength and arms. Truly heartbreaking yet inspirational beauty at the same time.
“When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I’m beautiful every day. He’s gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul….without him, I’m incomplete.” ~ Anika
Jenny: Ahhh, love that quote! There were times in Cole when I sobbed. A scene in particular was handled with such vivid imagery and description that in my head I witnessed every heartbreaking and beautiful moment as if I was watching it in a movie. If I thought I loved Cole before….well, what he did for Inky at this time too it to another level. What a truly beautiful man he was and the love he feels for this woman is felt with every breath.
“Cole?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t ever leave me.”
I really did enjoy this installment and witnessing Inky and Cole deal with their pain, sharing their love, their laughter and the sheer magnitude of the feelings between Cole and Inky tugged at my heart.
I will say I was a little disappointed with the epilogue. It wasn’t what I expected but I can understand why it went that way. It’s a personal thing for me what I love in an epilogue but I have to stress, this, in no way impacted on how much I loved this wonderfully written and truly moving story about opening up, trusting and finding your soul mate. Cole was sexy, funny, vivid and a wonderful read. I cried with them, I laughed with them – and I especially laughed with Inky and Aimes. Love those two!
You truly do wish, with every heartbeat that these two find the peace, serenity and happiness they deserve. We’ll be looking out for more from this author in the future won’t we G? Yep! J.B. Hartnett is on our list of faves that’s for sure! Inky, Anika and crew….you’ve stolen my heart.
‘But my revenge is to be happy.’ ~ Anika
Gitte: This Author sure knows how to draw every emotion out of you and her characters worm their way into your heart with their loving and heart-wrenching actions, none more so than Cole! This man is just amazing and his love for Inky is astoundingly beautiful.
'This was our fate. Her ugliness and mine made us fit.” ~ Cole
Two completely broken souls that find in each other what they’re missing…what they need. Find a love that is so all encompassing that even when yes, their pasts makes them doubt or back off they know that this is it. This is the ultimate of loves, their redemption and their future…they’re breath and their beating hearts.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole. We’ve both been so hurt by people that were supposed to love us unconditionally. It makes us doubt our worth….” ~ Anika
I loved the secondary characters. Cole’s parents really shone in this story and one scene in particular involving them had me in fits of laughter. Oh, and I have a real soft spot for Nico and David too. Especially Nico, he intrigues me!!
“Yeah, he knows how to get the demons out of your soul and onto your skin.”
So yeah, I loved this second instalment and J.B. Hartnett has without doubt become an automatic one-click for me with this series!
Jointly reviewed for : http://totallybookedblog.com/
Jenny: Well G, after being left with that heart pounding cliffy in Inky, we were certainly hanging out for Cole weren’t we? So many questions to be answered and we really couldn’t wait to see if these two were afforded their closure they so desperately and rightly deserved.
‘He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other.’ - Anika
Cole certainly started out on a drama induced moment and reading those first two chapters were indeed heartbreaking and heart stopping that’s for sure! What a way to start a book! How much more did this couple have to endure? I felt so sorry for both Inky and Cole. They really do share such a strong bond and they absolutely deserve a break don’t they G?
Gitte: Absolutely yes!! I’m so glad we didn’t have to wait too long for Cole after that cliffy. My heart broke in Inky and I was desperate for it to be fixed again in Cole. I can’t believe how intense Cole started out, it was dramatic and heartbreaking but so overwhelmingly emotional too in a good way I suppose. Cole and Inky really did deserve calm, happy and togetherness without life throwing any more crap their way. They’ve suffered enough. Their love so incredibly strong and being so truly emotionally connected that yeah Jenny, they needed to be safe and get their happy!
“Yes. No matter what happens. That’s my answer if something goes wrong. I love you, forever baby. Forever.” ~ Anika
I have to say that not only did I frantically turn the pages because of the suspense and drama, I also laughed my arse off in certain scenes and swooned to the max in others. Cole just had that perfect balance to keep me addicted and unable to put my kindle down.
Jenny: Anika (Inky) completely stole our hearts in book one didn’t she G? We adored this quirky, tenacious, damaged, beautiful girl who had been dealt such a rough hand in life. Possessing a beauty inside and out, here was a woman who deserved it all. Inky really was remarkable that’s for sure. Above all else, Inky especially deserved love, and in Cole, she would find exactly that. Here was a man who truly, deeply and madly loved her, needed her and was there to protect her and cherish her at all costs. What a guy! Loved him and he is no less than Inky deserved.
“But it’s waking up next to him, and hearing him breathe and knowing he would slay a dragon if he had to for me…” ~ Anika
Yes, this man certainly did shower love and affection on her and understood Inky and her pain as no other would. The bond between them was so strong, so He was her soul mate in every sense of the word and I was completely swept away with their love story. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: Seriously love Anika. She really is so incredibly strong despite everything she’s had to go through and still does to an extent. She has such lovability that as a reader you just wanted her to be safe. How could you not cry for her and laugh with her? This girl is amazing! The love she found with Cole was breathtaking at times. The love so intense, pure and unconditional that there was no question these two were soul mates! Their love was all encompassing and their relationship was not only intensely emotional, it was fun and sizzling too!
“I had no doubt Cole would do everything possible to save me. He would move, not just mountains, but continents to save me. He already had. He had healed wounds that had laid dormant in me for so long…” ~ Anika
Jenny: Now Cole. Wow! This man! I’m in love, lust..you name it, with this guy! Cole had such a beautiful heart. Cole was the whole package! The way he treated Inky melted me. Handsome, rich and who had the most wonderful giving and gentle nature, especially where Inky was concerned.
‘Amazing that in such a short time, Anika had made memories for me here.’ ~Cole
You truly believed this man would be nothing and would not want anything in this life unless it revolved around Anika. He loved her without exception and it was so beautiful witnessing Inky and Cole understand each other’s needs and want. To be able to anticipate what the other wanted. It was mesmerising.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole.” ~ Anika
Both Anika and Cole are so damaged from events in their pasts and throughout this story we reveal little by little the demons inside Cole. I have to say, after witnessing Inky’s demons, Cole’s, though painful and awful, were nothing of the scale of poor Inky’s, though my heart really did go out to him. After all, there is no level of pain. Pain is pain and each person’s difficult and to be respected. How did you feel when we learn of Cole’s demons G?
Gitte: Seriously Jenny I’m in complete love with Cole. In fact….so many times whilst reading, I wish I could have clicked my heels and jumped into the story. This man is sickeningly perfect. Imperfectly perfect. His heart is huge and despite his own demons his sole aim is to rid Inky of hers. It was beautiful.
“I sang to her….She said it saved her. I have to save her. All I want to do is protect her…” ~ Cole
Cole is a beautiful man who just loves with such intensity, no holds barred and has such understanding and meticulous attention to detail, needs and wants of the woman he loves. Cole’s back story did upset me and my heart broke for him too Jenny. Of course it did. And again, I was so overwhelmed by the way these two people could love and heal like they did in each other’s strength and arms. Truly heartbreaking yet inspirational beauty at the same time.
“When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I’m beautiful every day. He’s gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul….without him, I’m incomplete.” ~ Anika
Jenny: Ahhh, love that quote! There were times in Cole when I sobbed. A scene in particular was handled with such vivid imagery and description that in my head I witnessed every heartbreaking and beautiful moment as if I was watching it in a movie. If I thought I loved Cole before….well, what he did for Inky at this time too it to another level. What a truly beautiful man he was and the love he feels for this woman is felt with every breath.
“Cole?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t ever leave me.”
I really did enjoy this installment and witnessing Inky and Cole deal with their pain, sharing their love, their laughter and the sheer magnitude of the feelings between Cole and Inky tugged at my heart.
I will say I was a little disappointed with the epilogue. It wasn’t what I expected but I can understand why it went that way. It’s a personal thing for me what I love in an epilogue but I have to stress, this, in no way impacted on how much I loved this wonderfully written and truly moving story about opening up, trusting and finding your soul mate. Cole was sexy, funny, vivid and a wonderful read. I cried with them, I laughed with them – and I especially laughed with Inky and Aimes. Love those two!
You truly do wish, with every heartbeat that these two find the peace, serenity and happiness they deserve. We’ll be looking out for more from this author in the future won’t we G? Yep! J.B. Hartnett is on our list of faves that’s for sure! Inky, Anika and crew….you’ve stolen my heart.
‘But my revenge is to be happy.’ ~ Anika
Gitte: This Author sure knows how to draw every emotion out of you and her characters worm their way into your heart with their loving and heart-wrenching actions, none more so than Cole! This man is just amazing and his love for Inky is astoundingly beautiful.
'This was our fate. Her ugliness and mine made us fit.” ~ Cole
Two completely broken souls that find in each other what they’re missing…what they need. Find a love that is so all encompassing that even when yes, their pasts makes them doubt or back off they know that this is it. This is the ultimate of loves, their redemption and their future…they’re breath and their beating hearts.
“We have to stop doubting that we’re good enough for each other, Cole. We’ve both been so hurt by people that were supposed to love us unconditionally. It makes us doubt our worth….” ~ Anika
I loved the secondary characters. Cole’s parents really shone in this story and one scene in particular involving them had me in fits of laughter. Oh, and I have a real soft spot for Nico and David too. Especially Nico, he intrigues me!!
“Yeah, he knows how to get the demons out of your soul and onto your skin.”
So yeah, I loved this second instalment and J.B. Hartnett has without doubt become an automatic one-click for me with this series!
September 27, 2013
BOOK REVIEW: Cole (The Leaves, #2) by J.B. Hartnett
”I was nothing before you, not even half a man, you made me whole again, Anika. I will spend the rest of my life making sure I never make you regret it.” - Cole Carlyle
Wow - what a stunning book! Cole is the definition of a perfect 'too good to be true' book hero, his intensity and newfound alpha male status will dazzle you beyond compare. Intense and possessive in nature = sexy as hell! From his unwavering loyalty, strength, his passion and the unprecedented love he holds for Anika, resonates powerfully throughout every page, every scene, every word he speaks is laden with absolute honesty and heartfelt truths – he quite simply, stole my breath away!
Anika…the woman with a sorely broken and dark past; subjected to physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her own Mother and her ex-partner is desperately trying to lay her demons to rest. Painting her pain onto canvas is her outlet, the ‘tree of life’ tattoo that marks her back, a reminder of her continued fight for freedom.
Inky (The Leaves, #1) gave us one hell of a cliff-hanger ending, so it's no surprise that this sequel hits the ground running from the get-go as Inky suffers yet again at the hand of the man that stole her innocence. With the help of his estranged Father, Richard Carlyle, Cole will stop at nothing to get his girl back. Even if it comes at huge personal cost - anything to have Anika home safe.
With Cole's love and unwavering support, and the love of her best friend, can Anika ‘Inky’ finally be able to shed the rest of those symbolic dead leaves as she waves goodbye to her past and plants her feet firmly into new roots of the future?
...Well, I can’t tell you that, but what I can tell you is this sequel focuses strongly on new beginnings; the power of friendship; the importance of family; of spoken truths and sincere honesty. Fear of the past still plays an important role but so does survival and hope.
And… one character may just surprise you. I have a little ‘character’ crush on an older man, actually... :)
Cole is a deeply moving, emotionally charged page-turner of a sequel that will leave you more than just a little hot under the collar. – Kelly, Perusing Princesses blog.
READ IT!
4.5 Stars.
For more reviews, don't forget to check out the blog at: www.perusingprincesses.com
”I was nothing before you, not even half a man, you made me whole again, Anika. I will spend the rest of my life making sure I never make you regret it.” - Cole Carlyle
Wow - what a stunning book! Cole is the definition of a perfect 'too good to be true' book hero, his intensity and newfound alpha male status will dazzle you beyond compare. Intense and possessive in nature = sexy as hell! From his unwavering loyalty, strength, his passion and the unprecedented love he holds for Anika, resonates powerfully throughout every page, every scene, every word he speaks is laden with absolute honesty and heartfelt truths – he quite simply, stole my breath away!
Anika…the woman with a sorely broken and dark past; subjected to physical and sexual abuse at the hands of her own Mother and her ex-partner is desperately trying to lay her demons to rest. Painting her pain onto canvas is her outlet, the ‘tree of life’ tattoo that marks her back, a reminder of her continued fight for freedom.
Inky (The Leaves, #1) gave us one hell of a cliff-hanger ending, so it's no surprise that this sequel hits the ground running from the get-go as Inky suffers yet again at the hand of the man that stole her innocence. With the help of his estranged Father, Richard Carlyle, Cole will stop at nothing to get his girl back. Even if it comes at huge personal cost - anything to have Anika home safe.
With Cole's love and unwavering support, and the love of her best friend, can Anika ‘Inky’ finally be able to shed the rest of those symbolic dead leaves as she waves goodbye to her past and plants her feet firmly into new roots of the future?
...Well, I can’t tell you that, but what I can tell you is this sequel focuses strongly on new beginnings; the power of friendship; the importance of family; of spoken truths and sincere honesty. Fear of the past still plays an important role but so does survival and hope.
And… one character may just surprise you. I have a little ‘character’ crush on an older man, actually... :)
Cole is a deeply moving, emotionally charged page-turner of a sequel that will leave you more than just a little hot under the collar. – Kelly, Perusing Princesses blog.
READ IT!
4.5 Stars.
For more reviews, don't forget to check out the blog at: www.perusingprincesses.com
August 15, 2013
I was honoured when Julie asked me to beta read Cole, the second book in The Leaves series. Now, I was amazed and in love with J. B Hartnett after reading Inky, the first book in the series and also her debut book, but she managed to completely blow me out of the water with Cole.
I don’t want to give anything away and believe me, that is difficult because I want everyone to know how awesome this book is. Cole isn’t as dark as Inky, but it does have its moments. Again, it was an emotional read and I shed tears, but for different reasons. I shed lots of happy tears and moments when I just sighed. There were also quite a few times that I laughed out loud. J. B. Hartnett has a wicked sense of humour.
I was already in love with Cole, but now I might even be a little bit obsessed. Despite, or maybe because of what he’s gone through, he is perfect. I want a Cole in my life! I loved the way I got to know the characters more and I now feel like they’re my ‘friends’. Again, I was in awe of the author’s portrayal of characters. Aimes is still the best BFF ever and Gus is so loving and supportive. I love Abe and Anthony and who wouldn’t want Trish as a mother-in-law. Beautiful Nicco makes more than one appearance and I even grew to like Richard. And then there were a few new characters who found a place in my heart. I’ll let you discover them on your own.
It’s hard to choose what I loved most of this book, but I think it’s maybe the way J. B. Hartnett makes connections between the characters and the events. As I discovered new connections, I found myself talking to myself and thinking how clever this author is. I also sent a few messages to the author, asking if I would find out more about these characters in future books. I wonder if other readers will have the same reactions.
Do you even have to guess at the number of stars I want to give Cole? I gave Inky 5 fat stars, so I think that I will have to give Cole 5 ginormous blinding stars out of 5.
Karen from Confessions of a Bookaholic
I don’t want to give anything away and believe me, that is difficult because I want everyone to know how awesome this book is. Cole isn’t as dark as Inky, but it does have its moments. Again, it was an emotional read and I shed tears, but for different reasons. I shed lots of happy tears and moments when I just sighed. There were also quite a few times that I laughed out loud. J. B. Hartnett has a wicked sense of humour.
I was already in love with Cole, but now I might even be a little bit obsessed. Despite, or maybe because of what he’s gone through, he is perfect. I want a Cole in my life! I loved the way I got to know the characters more and I now feel like they’re my ‘friends’. Again, I was in awe of the author’s portrayal of characters. Aimes is still the best BFF ever and Gus is so loving and supportive. I love Abe and Anthony and who wouldn’t want Trish as a mother-in-law. Beautiful Nicco makes more than one appearance and I even grew to like Richard. And then there were a few new characters who found a place in my heart. I’ll let you discover them on your own.
It’s hard to choose what I loved most of this book, but I think it’s maybe the way J. B. Hartnett makes connections between the characters and the events. As I discovered new connections, I found myself talking to myself and thinking how clever this author is. I also sent a few messages to the author, asking if I would find out more about these characters in future books. I wonder if other readers will have the same reactions.
Do you even have to guess at the number of stars I want to give Cole? I gave Inky 5 fat stars, so I think that I will have to give Cole 5 ginormous blinding stars out of 5.
Karen from Confessions of a Bookaholic
September 27, 2013
Just finished my ARC! OMG! J.B.Hartnett knocked it out of the park...AGAIN!!!!! Freaking fantastic! Cole and Anika! Just amazing Luv story....
Seriously can not wait for all of you to read the continuation of their story!
BLOG TOUR over on Perusing Princesses: www.perusingprincesses.com on 25th September!
This book... this story... it is just an epic, completely freaking epic continuation of an already beyond epic story....
Anika... Cole... two of the deepest, most troubled and the absolute best hopeful souls that have ever existed!
There is everything in this story.. Love, sex..(hot sex), epic love... torture, humbling, fear.. and i mean curls your insides into knots type of fear... there is violence that seriously, still leaves my a little breathless... the cruelty of it... but the most amazing thing.. is their growth, as individuals, as a couple, as a complete and utter beautiful future!!
I refuse to give any spoilers.. but seriously, my most favorite part, of any book I have read thus far... is near the end of this book... and it involves a phone call from Anika to Cole... and it is just the most beautiful, happy tear jerking laughable, full of love moment i have ever experienced... when you get there you will understand!! i sooooooo want to scream it at you all to share it with you but it is soooo beyond this universe wonderful... just think of me when you read it!!
My wonderful J. B. Hartnett... Thank you for this amazing, deep and original story!
Seriously can not wait for all of you to read the continuation of their story!
BLOG TOUR over on Perusing Princesses: www.perusingprincesses.com on 25th September!
This book... this story... it is just an epic, completely freaking epic continuation of an already beyond epic story....
Anika... Cole... two of the deepest, most troubled and the absolute best hopeful souls that have ever existed!
There is everything in this story.. Love, sex..(hot sex), epic love... torture, humbling, fear.. and i mean curls your insides into knots type of fear... there is violence that seriously, still leaves my a little breathless... the cruelty of it... but the most amazing thing.. is their growth, as individuals, as a couple, as a complete and utter beautiful future!!
I refuse to give any spoilers.. but seriously, my most favorite part, of any book I have read thus far... is near the end of this book... and it involves a phone call from Anika to Cole... and it is just the most beautiful, happy tear jerking laughable, full of love moment i have ever experienced... when you get there you will understand!! i sooooooo want to scream it at you all to share it with you but it is soooo beyond this universe wonderful... just think of me when you read it!!
My wonderful J. B. Hartnett... Thank you for this amazing, deep and original story!
September 22, 2013
I enjoyed every minute of the second installment of J.B. Hartnett's The Leaves series.
Cole begins where Inky finished and is a continuation of their story. As in the first book, Inky, Cole is filled with drama, angst, love and steaming HOT sex.
The book Cole gives us a deeper look into Cole's mind. I loved learning more about Cole and his parents, and understanding how Cole's mind works. I loved seeing Richard Carlyle (Cole's father) soften towards his son and accept Inky as part of his family.
It was great seeing Inky reunited with her own father and how she finds out that she has a brother and step mother. Cole and Inky made them feel welcome in their own family dynamic from the moment Inky was re acquainted with the father she never really knew.
In Cole, Inky finally gets her closure with the "Joe" issue. I liked that Cole and his family protected Inky when she asked not to be given any details about it, even though Inky could sense the things going on around her.
Cole is another emotional journey for readers. It is one of those rare stories where the sequel is just as good as the first book, if not better.
When I got to the end, I was left wanting more. There was so much left untold from Inky and Cole's story. I look forward to continuing their journey, and possibly that of other characters! ;)
Cole begins where Inky finished and is a continuation of their story. As in the first book, Inky, Cole is filled with drama, angst, love and steaming HOT sex.
The book Cole gives us a deeper look into Cole's mind. I loved learning more about Cole and his parents, and understanding how Cole's mind works. I loved seeing Richard Carlyle (Cole's father) soften towards his son and accept Inky as part of his family.
It was great seeing Inky reunited with her own father and how she finds out that she has a brother and step mother. Cole and Inky made them feel welcome in their own family dynamic from the moment Inky was re acquainted with the father she never really knew.
In Cole, Inky finally gets her closure with the "Joe" issue. I liked that Cole and his family protected Inky when she asked not to be given any details about it, even though Inky could sense the things going on around her.
Cole is another emotional journey for readers. It is one of those rare stories where the sequel is just as good as the first book, if not better.
When I got to the end, I was left wanting more. There was so much left untold from Inky and Cole's story. I look forward to continuing their journey, and possibly that of other characters! ;)
September 6, 2013
*ADVANCED READERS COPY*
I could hardly wait for this second book after reading Inky, and this sequel did not disappoint. It was absolutely beautiful and the characters were very genuine and heartfelt. Without giving too much of the story away, it was wonderful to see our couple triumph over adversity - and they really do triumph! Cole Carlyle is up there with the best fictional boyfriends around! A definite must read!
I could hardly wait for this second book after reading Inky, and this sequel did not disappoint. It was absolutely beautiful and the characters were very genuine and heartfelt. Without giving too much of the story away, it was wonderful to see our couple triumph over adversity - and they really do triumph! Cole Carlyle is up there with the best fictional boyfriends around! A definite must read!
September 24, 2013
IF YOU GAVE ME ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE THIS SERIES......
I think a series is very difficult for any author to pull off. A stand alone is one thing, but a series is a totally different ball game. Subsequent books can make or break the entire series. JB Hartnett has managed to bring everything that made Inky fantastic to Cole to create a series that is simply b.e.a.u.t.i.f.u.l.
There’s just so much to say I don’t know where to start, and I doubt I’ll even get to say everything that should be said, but I’ll try…….
If you read the Acknowledgements from the Author, she tells you exactly what this series is:
Once again, JB Hartnett made me feel EVERYTHING ….. another very emotional journey. Cole is full of passion, emotion, healing, drama, laughs, heartache, joy, and of course hot sex. I absolutely adore books that are this passionate and real that I become so lost in them I can't tell where I end and the characters begin. I love everything about this series: the story, the characters, and the writing…. everything.
JB Hartnett’s writing style is fresh and wonderful. This woman has some mad mad writing skills and with humor to boot! She has this amazing ability to mix the humor with the sensitive situations in just the right way that doesn't detract, but adds to the feel of the book. Sometimes, I felt guilty that I was laughing so hard when the subject matter is so sensitive. The feelings she can elicit from you are, at times, indescribable.
And, she sure knows how to kill you with the most touching and unexpected moments, too. Some were so touching they had me saying maybe there is still good left in this world. My heart was bursting with happiness and joy. But, for all the happiness and good she still kept the story real. She didn't take the easy way out when writing Inky's kidnapping.
It’s amazing how the the characters just come to life. They are strong, well developed, and endearing. Anika and Cole are perfectly imperfect – they are vulnerable and real. So real they could be any stranger you pass on the street. They are each other’s perfect fit.
“I was nothing before you, not even half a man, you made me whole again Anika. I will spend the rest of my like making sure I never make you regret it.”– Cole
Cole. Could he be any more perfect??? He’s tender, sweet, loving, caring, and utterly devoted to Inky. We learn more about him, his past, and how he thinks. He’s determined to make Inky his future. He’ll fight for her and protect her no matter what happens.
“When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I’m beautiful every day. He’s always gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. His is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul… without him, I’m incomplete.”– Inky
Anika. With all of Cole’s love, Inky once again became Anika. She has good people in her life now and can finally put the past behind her. You would think after everything Inky has been through, she would be jaded and closed off. But no, she's sweet, passionate, and forgiving, with a heart full of nothing but love and kindness.
They dealt with all the hurt, the pain, the healing, the good, the bad, the happy, the sad -- and, in the end, they saved each other. This is truly the most perfect LOVE STORY.
❤The Leaves is definitely in my Top 5 of all-time list. You don't just read The Leaves, you experience it.❤
I think a series is very difficult for any author to pull off. A stand alone is one thing, but a series is a totally different ball game. Subsequent books can make or break the entire series. JB Hartnett has managed to bring everything that made Inky fantastic to Cole to create a series that is simply b.e.a.u.t.i.f.u.l.
There’s just so much to say I don’t know where to start, and I doubt I’ll even get to say everything that should be said, but I’ll try…….
If you read the Acknowledgements from the Author, she tells you exactly what this series is:
“I wanted to rip people’s guts out, make them cry and put them back together again with hot sex and unbelievable love that wins over every other obstacle.”
Once again, JB Hartnett made me feel EVERYTHING ….. another very emotional journey. Cole is full of passion, emotion, healing, drama, laughs, heartache, joy, and of course hot sex. I absolutely adore books that are this passionate and real that I become so lost in them I can't tell where I end and the characters begin. I love everything about this series: the story, the characters, and the writing…. everything.
JB Hartnett’s writing style is fresh and wonderful. This woman has some mad mad writing skills and with humor to boot! She has this amazing ability to mix the humor with the sensitive situations in just the right way that doesn't detract, but adds to the feel of the book. Sometimes, I felt guilty that I was laughing so hard when the subject matter is so sensitive. The feelings she can elicit from you are, at times, indescribable.
And, she sure knows how to kill you with the most touching and unexpected moments, too. Some were so touching they had me saying maybe there is still good left in this world. My heart was bursting with happiness and joy. But, for all the happiness and good she still kept the story real. She didn't take the easy way out when writing Inky's kidnapping.
It’s amazing how the the characters just come to life. They are strong, well developed, and endearing. Anika and Cole are perfectly imperfect – they are vulnerable and real. So real they could be any stranger you pass on the street. They are each other’s perfect fit.
“I was nothing before you, not even half a man, you made me whole again Anika. I will spend the rest of my like making sure I never make you regret it.”– Cole
Cole. Could he be any more perfect??? He’s tender, sweet, loving, caring, and utterly devoted to Inky. We learn more about him, his past, and how he thinks. He’s determined to make Inky his future. He’ll fight for her and protect her no matter what happens.
“When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I’m beautiful every day. He’s always gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. His is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul… without him, I’m incomplete.”– Inky
Anika. With all of Cole’s love, Inky once again became Anika. She has good people in her life now and can finally put the past behind her. You would think after everything Inky has been through, she would be jaded and closed off. But no, she's sweet, passionate, and forgiving, with a heart full of nothing but love and kindness.
They dealt with all the hurt, the pain, the healing, the good, the bad, the happy, the sad -- and, in the end, they saved each other. This is truly the most perfect LOVE STORY.
❤The Leaves is definitely in my Top 5 of all-time list. You don't just read The Leaves, you experience it.❤
September 25, 2013
ARC received by the author in exchange for an honest review
It was with bated breath I started reading this book after the horrendous cliffhanger in "Inky"! I kept telling myself that this couple WOULD get their HEA (Happy-Ever-After), but I was not altogether sure of all the heartbreak they had to go through to get it. I was reading so fast because I could not wait to learn what would happen next.
After Inky is taken, we get to experience the next 24 hours - and the rest of the story - from not only Inky's perspective, but Cole's as well, and I really love that the author decided to write this book in dual POV's - as I wrote in my review of "Inky", I simply could not wait to get inside Cole's head and get to know him better.
And I must say that the author definitely did not disappoint me! What an amazing man Cole is. The way he handles Inky's abduction felt extremely real to me. He is scared, furious, wild and not afraid to show his emotions to his family. I was almost praying for Inky's safe return side by side with him, that is how real it felt to me.
I loved how intense Cole feels about Inky - it is so beautiful, and the best part is that Inky feels exactly the same about him.
"Yes. No matter what happens. That's my answer if something goes wrong. I love you, forever baby. Forever". (Inky)
Luckily, Inky IS released from the clutches of Joe - and I am NOT feeling conflicted about his demise, not at all - and I was happy to see how their relationship grew as time went by. The pace of the story settles down a bit, which I was very happy with, and when you find out that Inky decides to talk with a psychologist about her past, I almost jumped up and down and shouted "YES!" to the living room! I was really waiting for that to happen, because I just felt that neither Inky, nor Cole, would be able to move forward completely if they did not see the necessity of speaking with a professional about their traumas. Otherwise, the story would have lost some of its believability in my opinion.
As you know, I really adored Inky in the first book. And I still do! She is still this strong willed, beautiful, quirky woman who is determined to find her place in the world, and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Cole is her perfect match. He understands her like no other - except, perhaps, apart from Aimes - and he understands her pain and what she needs from him. I really feel that the author excelled at showing us that they are, truly, soul mates.
"This was our fate. Her ugliness and mine made us fit". (Cole)
I love the banter this couple has with each other! I mean, there are, again, some very laugh-out-loud moments, so readers who enjoyed this aspect in book one, will definitely be satisfied with "Cole".
"Are my sexy cupcake flannel pajama's making you hot?" (Inky)
"You have no idea. Why do you think I bought 'em?" (Cole)
Oh, and the scene with the Thanksgiving dinner? Hilarious! THIS is what makes a great book to me: lots of drama and intensity, but plenty of humor and simplicity as well - Miss Hartnett, you have done it again!
As with "Inky", the secondary characters are well developed. I like that we get to know Cole's parents better, but I will never really understand Richard, Cole's father. But that is just the wayI feel.
I will not say more about what happens in the book - you HAVE to read it for yourself - because I do not want to make the mistake of giving too much of the story away. And no, many of you may not enjoy it, but that is the beauty about books: everyone can feel differently about the same story, and that is ALLOWED! ;-)
I must admit that the dual POV's is what makes this a better book for me - I admit it, I love getting to know the hero's thoughts and feelings - and I think the author has managed to show us who Cole REALLY is: kind, generous, protective, and hot.
As I said about "Inky": if you want a book with plenty of emotions, with highs and lows,"Cole" will live up to your expectations. oh, and what I believe I failed to say before: those of you who want steamy sex scenes will get your wish! There is plenty of that as well! ;-)
I am really looking forward to seeing what J. B. Hartnett conjures up for us in the future. No pressure! :-)
It was with bated breath I started reading this book after the horrendous cliffhanger in "Inky"! I kept telling myself that this couple WOULD get their HEA (Happy-Ever-After), but I was not altogether sure of all the heartbreak they had to go through to get it. I was reading so fast because I could not wait to learn what would happen next.
After Inky is taken, we get to experience the next 24 hours - and the rest of the story - from not only Inky's perspective, but Cole's as well, and I really love that the author decided to write this book in dual POV's - as I wrote in my review of "Inky", I simply could not wait to get inside Cole's head and get to know him better.
And I must say that the author definitely did not disappoint me! What an amazing man Cole is. The way he handles Inky's abduction felt extremely real to me. He is scared, furious, wild and not afraid to show his emotions to his family. I was almost praying for Inky's safe return side by side with him, that is how real it felt to me.
I loved how intense Cole feels about Inky - it is so beautiful, and the best part is that Inky feels exactly the same about him.
"Yes. No matter what happens. That's my answer if something goes wrong. I love you, forever baby. Forever". (Inky)
Luckily, Inky IS released from the clutches of Joe - and I am NOT feeling conflicted about his demise, not at all - and I was happy to see how their relationship grew as time went by. The pace of the story settles down a bit, which I was very happy with, and when you find out that Inky decides to talk with a psychologist about her past, I almost jumped up and down and shouted "YES!" to the living room! I was really waiting for that to happen, because I just felt that neither Inky, nor Cole, would be able to move forward completely if they did not see the necessity of speaking with a professional about their traumas. Otherwise, the story would have lost some of its believability in my opinion.
As you know, I really adored Inky in the first book. And I still do! She is still this strong willed, beautiful, quirky woman who is determined to find her place in the world, and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Cole is her perfect match. He understands her like no other - except, perhaps, apart from Aimes - and he understands her pain and what she needs from him. I really feel that the author excelled at showing us that they are, truly, soul mates.
"This was our fate. Her ugliness and mine made us fit". (Cole)
I love the banter this couple has with each other! I mean, there are, again, some very laugh-out-loud moments, so readers who enjoyed this aspect in book one, will definitely be satisfied with "Cole".
"Are my sexy cupcake flannel pajama's making you hot?" (Inky)
"You have no idea. Why do you think I bought 'em?" (Cole)
Oh, and the scene with the Thanksgiving dinner? Hilarious! THIS is what makes a great book to me: lots of drama and intensity, but plenty of humor and simplicity as well - Miss Hartnett, you have done it again!
As with "Inky", the secondary characters are well developed. I like that we get to know Cole's parents better, but I will never really understand Richard, Cole's father. But that is just the wayI feel.
I will not say more about what happens in the book - you HAVE to read it for yourself - because I do not want to make the mistake of giving too much of the story away. And no, many of you may not enjoy it, but that is the beauty about books: everyone can feel differently about the same story, and that is ALLOWED! ;-)
I must admit that the dual POV's is what makes this a better book for me - I admit it, I love getting to know the hero's thoughts and feelings - and I think the author has managed to show us who Cole REALLY is: kind, generous, protective, and hot.
As I said about "Inky": if you want a book with plenty of emotions, with highs and lows,"Cole" will live up to your expectations. oh, and what I believe I failed to say before: those of you who want steamy sex scenes will get your wish! There is plenty of that as well! ;-)
I am really looking forward to seeing what J. B. Hartnett conjures up for us in the future. No pressure! :-)
January 25, 2014
COLE by J.B. Hartnett is hands down one of the best books I’ve read this year! It was incredibly brilliant and I didn’t want it to end. COLE is book two in The Leaves series, it follows INKY, book one in the series which was also an incredible read. The series as a whole just blew me away with how much love, heartache, and depth it contained. You get to experience every emotion under the sun and it is SO WORTH all of the tears you will shed.
“My beautiful girl…my Anika…my lover…my best friend…my heart.”
COLE is the type of story that will keep you thinking, keep you guessing on what is going to happen next. When you finish book one, you have already invested so much in these characters, Anika and Cole. You will suffer with them, you will love with them, and you will feel with them and it’s just incredibly overwhelming. The immense feeling you get while reading this series will just take your breath away. Reading COLE was like watching a movie play out right in front of you. J.B. Hartnett is a fantastic writer. INKY and COLE was so well written. This story made you feel something more than just emotion. It was definitely more than that. Anika and Cole’s story will touch you deeply. It will touch you in a way that affects your soul. To read something that inspires every emotion: happiness, love, fear, anger, amusement is just beyond exciting, especially to a book lover like me.
INKY and COLE both are TOP PICKS and MUST READS for 2013! Engaging characters, suspenseful events, emotional ups and downs, sinfully erotic love scenes…that pretty much sums up this book for me. This author is amazing and I can’t wait to see what’s next for the other characters from this series!
COLE is not a standalone, INKY must be read first! No exceptions people
“My beautiful girl…my Anika…my lover…my best friend…my heart.”
COLE is the type of story that will keep you thinking, keep you guessing on what is going to happen next. When you finish book one, you have already invested so much in these characters, Anika and Cole. You will suffer with them, you will love with them, and you will feel with them and it’s just incredibly overwhelming. The immense feeling you get while reading this series will just take your breath away. Reading COLE was like watching a movie play out right in front of you. J.B. Hartnett is a fantastic writer. INKY and COLE was so well written. This story made you feel something more than just emotion. It was definitely more than that. Anika and Cole’s story will touch you deeply. It will touch you in a way that affects your soul. To read something that inspires every emotion: happiness, love, fear, anger, amusement is just beyond exciting, especially to a book lover like me.
INKY and COLE both are TOP PICKS and MUST READS for 2013! Engaging characters, suspenseful events, emotional ups and downs, sinfully erotic love scenes…that pretty much sums up this book for me. This author is amazing and I can’t wait to see what’s next for the other characters from this series!
COLE is not a standalone, INKY must be read first! No exceptions people
October 15, 2013
Largely, Inky and Cole's continuing journey doesn't disappoint. Whilst as touching and heartfelt as the first book, it's far more intimate and although there is some angst it also has some fabulous light humorous moments. Told this time from both perspectives (I loved getting into Cole's head), I was one again greeted with a book I couldn't put down.
Inky is more settled. She could quite easily break and don't get me wrong, she still has her moments, but her she is as determined as ever to put her past behind her. Her relationship with her friends and Cole's family is touching and fun and she continues to be the glue which fixes the Carlyle's seemingly broken family. And Cole, he is also as determined, giving and protective as ever, but we also see more of his fun side; the banter between him and Olaf brought many a smile.
Whilst 'Inky' has the edge of the two books, I have loved how they have quite simply adored each other into accepting their pasts whilst shaping their future. No nasty break-ups, no secrets between them, just pure unconditional love, an understanding needless of words and above it all, hope.
"I wanted to make sure Anika knew she wasn't just loved, she was adored by me and it wouldn't end in a month or a year or ten years; I was going to love this woman, worship her, until my very last breath."
My only slight disappointment was how quickly the whole 'Joe-situation' was wrapped up. I would have liked a little more depth to it considering the part his evil-ness played, but nevertheless both books have been a pleasure to read and I can't wait for Nico's book.
Inky is more settled. She could quite easily break and don't get me wrong, she still has her moments, but her she is as determined as ever to put her past behind her. Her relationship with her friends and Cole's family is touching and fun and she continues to be the glue which fixes the Carlyle's seemingly broken family. And Cole, he is also as determined, giving and protective as ever, but we also see more of his fun side; the banter between him and Olaf brought many a smile.
Whilst 'Inky' has the edge of the two books, I have loved how they have quite simply adored each other into accepting their pasts whilst shaping their future. No nasty break-ups, no secrets between them, just pure unconditional love, an understanding needless of words and above it all, hope.
"I wanted to make sure Anika knew she wasn't just loved, she was adored by me and it wouldn't end in a month or a year or ten years; I was going to love this woman, worship her, until my very last breath."
My only slight disappointment was how quickly the whole 'Joe-situation' was wrapped up. I would have liked a little more depth to it considering the part his evil-ness played, but nevertheless both books have been a pleasure to read and I can't wait for Nico's book.
November 19, 2013
If it was possible this book was even better than the first. This time from the POV from both Cole and Anika. Though at times reading the pain, heartbreak, and helplessness was hard. I knew (hoped) things would work out in the end and I'm relieved that it did. Cole finally got the father he always wanted and Inky was reunited with a father and a family she never knew she had. Brought together by shared pain but united by a once in a lifetime love. The ending had me holding my breath in both terror and excitement but if anyone deserved a happy ending its Inky and Cole. As much as I loved Cole I'm really hoping to read and fall in love with Nico the sensitive tattoo artist with a healing hand. After the tidbit at the end that's what I'm hoping for anyway.
September 21, 2013
I can never say enough of this series. I believe each story touches people on different levels. This is the story for me. Each word feed my heart and soul. I took my time and felt everything each character was going through. The writing was so memorizing. You, love each one of them for all different reasons. The struggles,heartache and love they have for each other. It was all so real. I hope there is so much more to come.
September 23, 2013
Inky was just fantastic but Cole OMG! I loved every minute of it. As the first book this one is full of drama, emotions , laughter and hot sex. I just love Cole! I love the way they both found their happily ever after. I can't wait to read more, can't decide if I want Nico's story first or Olaf's but I'm sure they will both be wonderfully written just as Inky and Cole have been.
June 5, 2014
I liked it but I must admit that I liked the first one more...
Cole and Anika's relationship was more solid and they got thru their traumas together, but it could've been done in less chapters and with less lovey dovey talk...
Great ending, and above all is one of those stories that leave you feeling happy. :)
Cole and Anika's relationship was more solid and they got thru their traumas together, but it could've been done in less chapters and with less lovey dovey talk...
Great ending, and above all is one of those stories that leave you feeling happy. :)
October 16, 2013
Perfect second book, I thought it would be more about Cole but it really is not, it is about Inky and Cole and coming to terms with who they are and building on an already intense loving relationship.
one of my favorite reads
one of my favorite reads
October 30, 2014
The extra star is for the laughter that came with an emotional story and such great characters. Thank you!
November 18, 2013
So many great things in this!
Read my review here.
Read my review here.
January 26, 2014
OMG I could not love cole anymore than I do right now.. Julie seriously I love this series.
October 12, 2013
“Don’t waste another second, life is short. I wasted so much time with the woman who holds my heart like it was the rarest gem wrapped in the purest gold. I didn’t appreciate it and I almost lost it. That love is a gift so few get to experience, let alone keep it.”
“You saved me, Cole. It started that day in the bar and ended with a ring and a promise of your fucked-up and my fucked-up”
”I was nothing before you, not even half a man, you made me whole again, Anika. I will spend the rest of my life making sure I never make you regret it.”
When you finish reading Inky (book 1) you’re left with quite a cliff hanger. Cole was the sequel I needed to Inky. Not only did this novel pick up exactly where Inky left off. J.B. Hartnett is just simply amazing. I was stunned and completely enthralled with this novel. The characters came into depth so much more, and the story unfolded and delivered secrets, determination, laughter, lust, love, devotion, happiness and tears. J.B. Hartnett absolutely takes your breath away with her words, from the first page all the way to the last. With each page turn your sense of wonder and bewilderment soar with the happenings that reveal throughout the novel.
I absolutely devoured this story. From the second I started the first page I didn’t want to put it down. Obviously real life gets in the way (damn it) and I had to put it down, unwillingly. This story is one of great artistry. The deep dark pasts of each character, the broken dreams, and the mental abuse along with the physical, J.B. delivers a story of will power, and the strength of love. I have to say that this series is definitely not one for the faint of heart. However, the beauty that lies within this book is simply phenomenal.
In the first book I was in love with Cole. Now? I’m even more in love! The unwavering devotion that just pours off this man is absolutely astonishing. While battling his own personal demons, his sole priority is to save his one true love, and best friend… his soon to be forever, Anika. The support characters of Gus and Aimes were just as flawless in this, as they were in Inky. The support that they gave to Cole and Inky while they went through their trials and tribulations was spectacular, and I would hope that my friends would do the same for me. Book 2 sheds emphasis on love conquering with new beginnings, and the importance of friendship and the power of family.
Writing a review of this sequel without spoilers is so incredibly hard, because I want to tell you everything! Everything that happened in book 1, and in this novel as well. What I CAN tell you… is that Cole is sexier than ever, with new improvements and Inky is by far the most beautiful, poised, and strong woman I could ever aspire to be. The horrible things she’s had to go through, and the evil that she has conquered. The Leaves series is such a simply awe-inspiring story, along with stunning characters that you’ll never forget.
J.B. Thank you so much for this story. I eagerly anticipate any of your next stories, as I have fallen in love with your writing style and your in depth characters. I have a new author that I’ve added to my ‘one-click don’t think twice’ author list. The list where I don’t even need to read the synopsis, I can just buy it and know I’ll love it.
“You saved me, Cole. It started that day in the bar and ended with a ring and a promise of your fucked-up and my fucked-up”
”I was nothing before you, not even half a man, you made me whole again, Anika. I will spend the rest of my life making sure I never make you regret it.”
When you finish reading Inky (book 1) you’re left with quite a cliff hanger. Cole was the sequel I needed to Inky. Not only did this novel pick up exactly where Inky left off. J.B. Hartnett is just simply amazing. I was stunned and completely enthralled with this novel. The characters came into depth so much more, and the story unfolded and delivered secrets, determination, laughter, lust, love, devotion, happiness and tears. J.B. Hartnett absolutely takes your breath away with her words, from the first page all the way to the last. With each page turn your sense of wonder and bewilderment soar with the happenings that reveal throughout the novel.
I absolutely devoured this story. From the second I started the first page I didn’t want to put it down. Obviously real life gets in the way (damn it) and I had to put it down, unwillingly. This story is one of great artistry. The deep dark pasts of each character, the broken dreams, and the mental abuse along with the physical, J.B. delivers a story of will power, and the strength of love. I have to say that this series is definitely not one for the faint of heart. However, the beauty that lies within this book is simply phenomenal.
In the first book I was in love with Cole. Now? I’m even more in love! The unwavering devotion that just pours off this man is absolutely astonishing. While battling his own personal demons, his sole priority is to save his one true love, and best friend… his soon to be forever, Anika. The support characters of Gus and Aimes were just as flawless in this, as they were in Inky. The support that they gave to Cole and Inky while they went through their trials and tribulations was spectacular, and I would hope that my friends would do the same for me. Book 2 sheds emphasis on love conquering with new beginnings, and the importance of friendship and the power of family.
Writing a review of this sequel without spoilers is so incredibly hard, because I want to tell you everything! Everything that happened in book 1, and in this novel as well. What I CAN tell you… is that Cole is sexier than ever, with new improvements and Inky is by far the most beautiful, poised, and strong woman I could ever aspire to be. The horrible things she’s had to go through, and the evil that she has conquered. The Leaves series is such a simply awe-inspiring story, along with stunning characters that you’ll never forget.
J.B. Thank you so much for this story. I eagerly anticipate any of your next stories, as I have fallen in love with your writing style and your in depth characters. I have a new author that I’ve added to my ‘one-click don’t think twice’ author list. The list where I don’t even need to read the synopsis, I can just buy it and know I’ll love it.
October 10, 2013
4 star review by Jen Skewes
Cole is the sequel to Inky, so if you have not read Inky please note that this review may contain spoilers. You also need to read Inky before reading Cole
Inky ended with that "OMG I cannot believe that just happened moment", followed by I cannot believe J.B. Hartnett left me hanging! We were left wondering what will happen to Inky, will Cole find her before any more damage is done and how will she survive and move past it all?
Let me just say that Cole was just as emotional as Inky, if not more, I honestly think I cried for the first 10% of this book. Inky is gone and at first Cole has no idea why or what happened. But once he finds out is when the emotions start coming. Cole goes back and forth from Cole to Inky's POV. So we see the emotions and anxiety that Inky goes through, not knowing what is going to happen to her next. It was as if you were living the nightmare with her, scared for her and her safety as well as her emotional state. Then you see Cole's POV and how much he loved this woman who entered his life not that long ago. The fear and pain at the realization that he may lose her. You see his family join forces to help find the woman he loves. You go through those emotions with him and feel how deep his love for her really is. And some people that you may not have cared for in the first book will completely surprise you and warm your heart.
This is the emotional journey of Inky and Cole's quest to find happiness. Because if there are two people who deserve it the most it is these two. They are both so damaged and broken from their pasts that your heart completely breaks for them. But they have a love that is so intense and so strong that they can honestly get through anything as long as they have each other. I loved Cole. He was such an amazing, caring, loving man who wanted to protect Inky in every way possible. He understood her pain better than anyone ever could. He knew when to push and when to back away. But Cole needed Inky just as much as she needed him. He loved her so much that it was as if he needed her to breathe. The love and devotion that they have for each other was just beautiful.
I don't want to go into too much detail of the book without giving away any spoilers. I will just say that this was a wonderful conclusion to their story. I loved watching Inky grow as a person and find herself. She needed to let go of the past in order to heal. Cole had his own healing to do as well. Their relationship had its high and lows but they worked through it together. Their journey was a very emotional one filled with laughter, tears, happiness and some very hot and sexy scenes. There was just the right amount of drama and suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. Cole is a wonderful story of love, healing, strength, finding yourself and the happiness that you deserve.
Cole and Inky will melt your heart. They dealt with some deep issues in their life and I think that J.B. Hartnett did a wonderful job with those issues. The way they dealt with them and the emotions that they went through were so genuine and real. And as the reader you went through those emotions with them. This series is a must read. An amazing job by Ms. Hartnett.
Cole is the sequel to Inky, so if you have not read Inky please note that this review may contain spoilers. You also need to read Inky before reading Cole
Inky ended with that "OMG I cannot believe that just happened moment", followed by I cannot believe J.B. Hartnett left me hanging! We were left wondering what will happen to Inky, will Cole find her before any more damage is done and how will she survive and move past it all?
Let me just say that Cole was just as emotional as Inky, if not more, I honestly think I cried for the first 10% of this book. Inky is gone and at first Cole has no idea why or what happened. But once he finds out is when the emotions start coming. Cole goes back and forth from Cole to Inky's POV. So we see the emotions and anxiety that Inky goes through, not knowing what is going to happen to her next. It was as if you were living the nightmare with her, scared for her and her safety as well as her emotional state. Then you see Cole's POV and how much he loved this woman who entered his life not that long ago. The fear and pain at the realization that he may lose her. You see his family join forces to help find the woman he loves. You go through those emotions with him and feel how deep his love for her really is. And some people that you may not have cared for in the first book will completely surprise you and warm your heart.
This is the emotional journey of Inky and Cole's quest to find happiness. Because if there are two people who deserve it the most it is these two. They are both so damaged and broken from their pasts that your heart completely breaks for them. But they have a love that is so intense and so strong that they can honestly get through anything as long as they have each other. I loved Cole. He was such an amazing, caring, loving man who wanted to protect Inky in every way possible. He understood her pain better than anyone ever could. He knew when to push and when to back away. But Cole needed Inky just as much as she needed him. He loved her so much that it was as if he needed her to breathe. The love and devotion that they have for each other was just beautiful.
I don't want to go into too much detail of the book without giving away any spoilers. I will just say that this was a wonderful conclusion to their story. I loved watching Inky grow as a person and find herself. She needed to let go of the past in order to heal. Cole had his own healing to do as well. Their relationship had its high and lows but they worked through it together. Their journey was a very emotional one filled with laughter, tears, happiness and some very hot and sexy scenes. There was just the right amount of drama and suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. Cole is a wonderful story of love, healing, strength, finding yourself and the happiness that you deserve.
Cole and Inky will melt your heart. They dealt with some deep issues in their life and I think that J.B. Hartnett did a wonderful job with those issues. The way they dealt with them and the emotions that they went through were so genuine and real. And as the reader you went through those emotions with them. This series is a must read. An amazing job by Ms. Hartnett.
October 3, 2013
*4 1/2 Sassy Stars*
We return were Inky left us with a Cliffhanger of all Cliffhangers ending, with this amazing sequel to the Leave Series through the eyes of the heartwarming Cole Carlyle. Julie certainly gave us one.
We continue with the unknown of Where is Inky? Poor Cole unknown as to what happened joins forces with his family and Inky's friends. This brought together an emotional family moment between Cole and his dad. Can family members move on after such a devastating past.
This sequel was full of it all. Full of a rollercoaster of emotions, family drama, laughter and best of all Hot sizzling sex. Always love a good wall banging scene! :)
With Cole being Inky's protector none the less, the love honestly showed just how much they are truly meant to be together. Through the leaps and bounds, there love is just too strong.
"When I wake up, it's to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I'm beautiful everyday. He's always gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul.....without him, I'm incomplete." ~ Inky
The emotional support that Cole provide Inky thought her panic moments is beautiful. This brought out further truths about Cole's past. The artistic side of both of these characters, as I fan of Art, I this moment I loved.
My Darling Girl, All my dreams, all my love........all you. Cole
After such an emotional rollercoaster for Inky & Cole, they were were given their chance to more forward to the future together. The beautiful moment capture at the ending was beautiful.
This sequel still brought us the jam pack full of action throughout however it also gave us some closure that Inky and Cole deserved.
I look forward to the next installment to the Leaves Series with Nico.
We return were Inky left us with a Cliffhanger of all Cliffhangers ending, with this amazing sequel to the Leave Series through the eyes of the heartwarming Cole Carlyle. Julie certainly gave us one.
We continue with the unknown of Where is Inky? Poor Cole unknown as to what happened joins forces with his family and Inky's friends. This brought together an emotional family moment between Cole and his dad. Can family members move on after such a devastating past.
This sequel was full of it all. Full of a rollercoaster of emotions, family drama, laughter and best of all Hot sizzling sex. Always love a good wall banging scene! :)
With Cole being Inky's protector none the less, the love honestly showed just how much they are truly meant to be together. Through the leaps and bounds, there love is just too strong.
"When I wake up, it's to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I'm beautiful everyday. He's always gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul.....without him, I'm incomplete." ~ Inky
The emotional support that Cole provide Inky thought her panic moments is beautiful. This brought out further truths about Cole's past. The artistic side of both of these characters, as I fan of Art, I this moment I loved.
My Darling Girl, All my dreams, all my love........all you. Cole
After such an emotional rollercoaster for Inky & Cole, they were were given their chance to more forward to the future together. The beautiful moment capture at the ending was beautiful.
This sequel still brought us the jam pack full of action throughout however it also gave us some closure that Inky and Cole deserved.
I look forward to the next installment to the Leaves Series with Nico.
September 30, 2013
Read more reviews | Find Me on Facebook
In Inky (The Leaves #1) we get to meet the character of Anika (Inky) and her story. She meets Cole and falls in love but their romance has many ups and downs and the two don’t exactly get their HEA. Inky (The Leaves #1) leaves us on a cliff hanger and that is exactly where Cole (The Leaves #2) picks up.
Cole is told in… well Cole’s POV. I love Cole… he is an honest to goodness, good guy and those are the guys I like. He loves Inky and all of her craziness and I mean that in a good way.
Cole (The Leaves #2) felt different to me; it felt more grown up, more endearing, more real. There were so many emotions coming out of the book, especially in the beginning with Cole, it was heartbreaking to read. I love that Inky finally opened up to Cole, she wasn’t standoffish any more. She was more loving and almost seemed to need Cole, like truly NEED him in every way. He was her safety net and she finally decided to fall. She opened up to him and received the greatest gift of all… Cole.
I did feel like some of the book dragged on a bit. Just like Inky I had to really get into it and focus because it is worth it at the end not to give up. Cole took my interest right away with the first couple of chapters but then it started to become slow… I knew not to give up and I am so glad I didn’t because the ending… oh man the ending was so good.
The Leaves is a good series, it’s definitely high on romance and suspense. I recommended for more mature audiences who do not mind a slow build up or excitement on every page because when it all comes together, it’s quite special and unique.
I give Cole (The Leaves #2) 3.5 Stars
ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.
In Inky (The Leaves #1) we get to meet the character of Anika (Inky) and her story. She meets Cole and falls in love but their romance has many ups and downs and the two don’t exactly get their HEA. Inky (The Leaves #1) leaves us on a cliff hanger and that is exactly where Cole (The Leaves #2) picks up.
Cole is told in… well Cole’s POV. I love Cole… he is an honest to goodness, good guy and those are the guys I like. He loves Inky and all of her craziness and I mean that in a good way.
Cole (The Leaves #2) felt different to me; it felt more grown up, more endearing, more real. There were so many emotions coming out of the book, especially in the beginning with Cole, it was heartbreaking to read. I love that Inky finally opened up to Cole, she wasn’t standoffish any more. She was more loving and almost seemed to need Cole, like truly NEED him in every way. He was her safety net and she finally decided to fall. She opened up to him and received the greatest gift of all… Cole.
I did feel like some of the book dragged on a bit. Just like Inky I had to really get into it and focus because it is worth it at the end not to give up. Cole took my interest right away with the first couple of chapters but then it started to become slow… I knew not to give up and I am so glad I didn’t because the ending… oh man the ending was so good.
The Leaves is a good series, it’s definitely high on romance and suspense. I recommended for more mature audiences who do not mind a slow build up or excitement on every page because when it all comes together, it’s quite special and unique.
I give Cole (The Leaves #2) 3.5 Stars
ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.
April 21, 2014
This was a solid 4 Stars
I loved this continuing story about Anika aka Inky and Cole. Unlike book one that's told in the first person POV of Anika this book is told in the alternating first person POV of Anika & Cole. That was wonderful.
I have to say the first 20% of this book was intense and suspenseful because we are coming off the cliffhanger of book one. It was awesome!! I enjoyed the whole book but I was a little let down with the climax at the end I was hoping for more excitement... But I understand why the author did this, these 2 had really been through enough! This is a definitely one of those books where the hero & heroine so deserved happiness.
The balance of the book was a water works show!! I cried and cried!! It was ugly ;). What an emotional book.
I couldn't believe it when Anika was telling Cole how she never wanted to see her mother no matter what. To explain to him why she talks about a book she's read 3 times where a boy & girl where kept apart by the girls father but later find each-other. Later the boy now a man wants revenge against the father but he's dead, so he takes the hair of their child and sprinkles it on his grave. The point is their happiness is his revenge, and that is what Anika wants, she wants their happiness to be her revenge against her mother. But the awesome part here is the story she is referring to is real, it's a book called Creed by Kristen Ashley and that part is my favorite in the book!! Needless to say this gave me total goosebumps!!
I really enjoyed this story both book 1 & 2. It was full of deep emotion, wonderful character development, sweet romance, serious steam, and some very necessary comic relief! Now the series continues with Nico's story I'm excited to read it!
I loved this continuing story about Anika aka Inky and Cole. Unlike book one that's told in the first person POV of Anika this book is told in the alternating first person POV of Anika & Cole. That was wonderful.
I have to say the first 20% of this book was intense and suspenseful because we are coming off the cliffhanger of book one. It was awesome!! I enjoyed the whole book but I was a little let down with the climax at the end I was hoping for more excitement... But I understand why the author did this, these 2 had really been through enough! This is a definitely one of those books where the hero & heroine so deserved happiness.
The balance of the book was a water works show!! I cried and cried!! It was ugly ;). What an emotional book.
I couldn't believe it when Anika was telling Cole how she never wanted to see her mother no matter what. To explain to him why she talks about a book she's read 3 times where a boy & girl where kept apart by the girls father but later find each-other. Later the boy now a man wants revenge against the father but he's dead, so he takes the hair of their child and sprinkles it on his grave. The point is their happiness is his revenge, and that is what Anika wants, she wants their happiness to be her revenge against her mother. But the awesome part here is the story she is referring to is real, it's a book called Creed by Kristen Ashley and that part is my favorite in the book!! Needless to say this gave me total goosebumps!!
I really enjoyed this story both book 1 & 2. It was full of deep emotion, wonderful character development, sweet romance, serious steam, and some very necessary comic relief! Now the series continues with Nico's story I'm excited to read it!
August 1, 2014
*****4.5-5 STARS*****
***What I Loved***
--The cliffhanger from Inky resolved fairly quickly.
--The range of emotions from tears to laughing out loud.
--Again with this book, I loved the supporting characters. The side stories are great. I also loved how we start to see connections between characters we didn't know we're there.
--The importance of the healing that comes from tattoos is amazing in this book.
--I loved the happy ending!! I loved this book so much that I can't even pinpoint specific moments!
--The final chapter that gives us a glimpse of Nico's story was wonderful.
***What I Disliked***
-- I struggled to follow the whirlwind of emotions with Cole and Inky. They would fall into a dark place without me as a reader knowing what the trigger was.
Can't wait to start Nico's story!!!
***Some Favorite Quotes***
***What I Loved***
--The cliffhanger from Inky resolved fairly quickly.
--The range of emotions from tears to laughing out loud.
--Again with this book, I loved the supporting characters. The side stories are great. I also loved how we start to see connections between characters we didn't know we're there.
--The importance of the healing that comes from tattoos is amazing in this book.
--I loved the happy ending!! I loved this book so much that I can't even pinpoint specific moments!
--The final chapter that gives us a glimpse of Nico's story was wonderful.
***What I Disliked***
-- I struggled to follow the whirlwind of emotions with Cole and Inky. They would fall into a dark place without me as a reader knowing what the trigger was.
Can't wait to start Nico's story!!!
***Some Favorite Quotes***
"When I wake up, it's to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me I'm beautiful every day. He's always gentle with me. He knows my pain and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through the darkness of each other. The world could be falling down around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other half of my heart, the other half of my soul... without him, I'm incomplete."
"I'm strong, Anika. I really am, but I'm not strong enough to lose you."
"Because your pain is my pain, Anika. I can't take it away, but I'll wear it with you."
October 1, 2013
J.B. Hartnett offered us a gem with book one, Inky, and didn't disappoint with book two, Cole. At the end of book one we were left on the edge of our seats with a big cliff hanger. Thankfully, we didn't have to wait long to read the continuation of this story.
Holy wow! I loved this book! From the beginning, we are once again brought to the brink. The first few chapters are intense and I was furiously flipping through the pages eager to find out how it would end.
Cole is forced to ask for help from the one person he can't stand, his father. He is desperate to help Inky and will do anything in his power to save her. Tensions are high between father, son, and mother. I LOVE Cole! He is what every man should aspire to be like. The 10 second conversations Cole and Inky had were heartbreaking and heart melting. Their love is so strong, you just knew they had to make though this.
"When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me
I’m beautiful every day. He’s gentle with me. He knows my pain
and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through
the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down
around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other
half of my heart, the other half of my soul….without him, I’m
incomplete.” - Anika
Holy wow! I loved this book! From the beginning, we are once again brought to the brink. The first few chapters are intense and I was furiously flipping through the pages eager to find out how it would end.
Cole is forced to ask for help from the one person he can't stand, his father. He is desperate to help Inky and will do anything in his power to save her. Tensions are high between father, son, and mother. I LOVE Cole! He is what every man should aspire to be like. The 10 second conversations Cole and Inky had were heartbreaking and heart melting. Their love is so strong, you just knew they had to make though this.
"When I wake up, it’s to his kiss on my forehead. He tells me
I’m beautiful every day. He’s gentle with me. He knows my pain
and I know his, and neither one of us is afraid to swim through
the darkness of the other. The world could be falling down
around us, but together we would be impenetrable. He is the other
half of my heart, the other half of my soul….without him, I’m
incomplete.” - Anika
April 17, 2014
I LOVED IT!!! AMAZING AND SWOONY! BUY IT http://amzn.to/NHqsvR
“Because your pain is my pain, Anika. I can’t take it away, but I’ll wear it with you.”
A great ending to an outstanding story. This book begins were Inky left off... yep. Remember that horrible cliffhanger???
Inky and Cole are together, they are in-love and planning a life for themselves. They have grown as a couple and individually but they still have many things to overcome. Once the whole ordeal regarding the Drago family incident, Inky and Cole pick up their lives.
Cole was an amazing partner, friend and lover; it was beautiful seeing how he takes care of Inky and helps her heal completely.
Cole also rekindles the relationship with his father, which was unexpected and a joy to read. Forgiveness and second chances are a rarity these days and J.B. Harnett gives us this amazing value in spades.
So many thingS I want to say, about his book but they would be redundant and I would be giving away too much of the story. The truth is... these books are the kind you just grab, start reading and forget about reviews or spoilers, every page there is something beautiful to uncover and I loved that I got to read them completely blind!!!
Thank You for a wonderful story; definitely an author to follow thoroughly.
“Because your pain is my pain, Anika. I can’t take it away, but I’ll wear it with you.”
A great ending to an outstanding story. This book begins were Inky left off... yep. Remember that horrible cliffhanger???
Inky and Cole are together, they are in-love and planning a life for themselves. They have grown as a couple and individually but they still have many things to overcome. Once the whole ordeal regarding the Drago family incident, Inky and Cole pick up their lives.
Cole was an amazing partner, friend and lover; it was beautiful seeing how he takes care of Inky and helps her heal completely.
Cole also rekindles the relationship with his father, which was unexpected and a joy to read. Forgiveness and second chances are a rarity these days and J.B. Harnett gives us this amazing value in spades.
So many thingS I want to say, about his book but they would be redundant and I would be giving away too much of the story. The truth is... these books are the kind you just grab, start reading and forget about reviews or spoilers, every page there is something beautiful to uncover and I loved that I got to read them completely blind!!!
Thank You for a wonderful story; definitely an author to follow thoroughly.
October 4, 2013
This review is being done as a reviewer for Sugar and Spice Book Reviews and this review will also be listed under their GoodReads account.
4 Stars
I freakin' love when I get to finish a series and Cole didn't let me down!
Cole picked up at the huge cliff hanger at the end of Inky. It's hard to review this without giving anything away but let's just say YOU HAVE TO READ IT!
Inky and Cole are both amazingly strong people and endure so much to fight for their love. Throughout the book I laughed, worried, and even teared up at the obstacles they faced-both emotionally and physically.
Once again the supporting characters kept me intrigued, but I do wish we saw more of them. The first book definitely had them more involved in the story then this book. We also met new characters in this story that I wish we learned more about, but it appears that there will be other books in the series so maybe it will be about them!
Cole definitely lived up to the first book and made me fall in love even more with this couple. This series so far has kept me completely intrigued and loving the characters! Cole Carlyle is a hot piece of ass and I'm so sad his story is over. I can't wait for what appears to be Nico's story next!!
4 Stars
I freakin' love when I get to finish a series and Cole didn't let me down!
Cole picked up at the huge cliff hanger at the end of Inky. It's hard to review this without giving anything away but let's just say YOU HAVE TO READ IT!
Inky and Cole are both amazingly strong people and endure so much to fight for their love. Throughout the book I laughed, worried, and even teared up at the obstacles they faced-both emotionally and physically.
Once again the supporting characters kept me intrigued, but I do wish we saw more of them. The first book definitely had them more involved in the story then this book. We also met new characters in this story that I wish we learned more about, but it appears that there will be other books in the series so maybe it will be about them!
Cole definitely lived up to the first book and made me fall in love even more with this couple. This series so far has kept me completely intrigued and loving the characters! Cole Carlyle is a hot piece of ass and I'm so sad his story is over. I can't wait for what appears to be Nico's story next!!
October 5, 2013
I freakin' love when I get to finish a series and Cole didn't let me down!
Cole picked up at the huge cliff hanger at the end of Inky. It's hard to review this without giving anything away but let's just say YOU HAVE TO READ IT!
Inky and Cole are both amazingly strong people and endure so much to fight for their love. Throughout the book I laughed, worried, and even teared up at the obstacles they faced-both emotionally and physically.
Once again the supporting characters kept me intrigued, but I do wish we saw more of them. The first book definitely had them more involved in the story then this book. We also met new characters in this story that I wish we learned more about, but it appears that there will be other books in the series so maybe it will be about them!
Cole definitely lived up to the first book and made me fall in love even more with this couple. This series so far has kept me completely intrigued and loving the characters! Cole Carlyle is a hot piece of ass and I'm so sad his story is over. I can't wait for what appears to be Nico's story next!!
*Reviewed by Lauren
Cole picked up at the huge cliff hanger at the end of Inky. It's hard to review this without giving anything away but let's just say YOU HAVE TO READ IT!
Inky and Cole are both amazingly strong people and endure so much to fight for their love. Throughout the book I laughed, worried, and even teared up at the obstacles they faced-both emotionally and physically.
Once again the supporting characters kept me intrigued, but I do wish we saw more of them. The first book definitely had them more involved in the story then this book. We also met new characters in this story that I wish we learned more about, but it appears that there will be other books in the series so maybe it will be about them!
Cole definitely lived up to the first book and made me fall in love even more with this couple. This series so far has kept me completely intrigued and loving the characters! Cole Carlyle is a hot piece of ass and I'm so sad his story is over. I can't wait for what appears to be Nico's story next!!
*Reviewed by Lauren
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews