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What is Permanent?

Always on the outside looking in, accountant, Lindsay Stevens, has calculated her transformation from a small town, nerdy bookkeeper to a sleek, high-powered accountant down to the last penny. With all her checks finally in balance, she moves to California to start a new life free of her embarrassing past she never wants revealed.

As Hollywood's hottest tattoo artist, Shane Elliott thrives on standing out. Charismatic and free of commitments, he travels through life with a wink and a smile, hiding the letters he receives from the IRS as if they don't exist. Now with bills to pay and tax collectors breathing down his back, for the first time in his life Shane can't charm his way out of his situation. However, when his new neighbor literally falls into his life, he knows he has struck gold once again.

Though Lindsay tries to keep her distance, she suddenly finds herself trying to hide her true self as she thrust into a world she doesn't think she belongs, but can't resist. In his good-time life, Shane must discover there is more to life than a party if he wants something more.

With their lives intertwined, the two must learn accept each other, themselves and their love.

Worlds collide as they decide what is truly permanent.

Permanent is the first book in the Indelibly Marked Series that follows the lives and loves of those surrounding Permanent Tattoo.

291 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 7, 2013

17 people are currently reading
747 people want to read

About the author

Kim Carmichael

54 books538 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author, Kim Carmichael, began writing fourteen years ago when her love of happy endings inspired her to create her own. She has a weakness for bad boys and techno geeks, and married her own computer whiz after he proved he could keep her all her gadgets running. When not writing, she can usually be found slathered in sunscreen trolling Los Angeles and helping top doctors build their practices.

You can find Kim Carmichael at:
www.kimcarmichaelnovels.com
When you sign up for her newsletter you get a free short story, The Drive.

You can also find her on facebook at kimcarmichaelnovels or follow her on twitter at @kimcarmichael4

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Pam.
1,093 reviews1,069 followers
May 5, 2014
3.5 stars
"I owe you one … more than one."



Shane Elliott is THE tattoo artist for all Hollywood celebs, anyone and everyone wants a tattoo from the talented man himself. His kind, fun loving personality and consistent bartering of tattoos for perks gets him in more trouble than he ever expected when he gets letters from the dreadful IRS. He needs to find someone quick to help him get his life and business in order and luck has it when his new neighbor knocks herself out with a hammer and needs some of his TLC.
"...the bad boy from Hollywood with the soft heart."



All Lindsey wanted was a fresh start, to do things on her own and not have to rely on anyone for help, or in her case have people only want her for the help she can give them. Remaking herself to a corporate accountant, she leaves her small town and moves to Hollywood transforming herself into what she things she wants to see. Removing any trace or memory of her past, she moves onto the next phase of her life, but gets completely blindsided by the attentive, strong and sweet bad boy that comes charging into her life.
"Blond Bombshell with brains."



Appearances, Shane and Lindsey are the exact opposite from each other, never really believing that there could be more than their current client/boss/business manager relationship. Lindsey takes on the task to get Shane’s finances back in order, refusing to fall for Shane’s charms regardless of how hard they are to resist. He and his whole family just folded themselves into her life, genuinely wanting to be an active part of it. Shane knows there is no one else who he wants to make things right, something deep inside tells him that she was always meant to be there by his side, but apart from knowing her name, she is a complete mystery that doesn’t add up.
"If I didn’t know better, I’d say that you fell from outer space right into this apartment so I could find you."



Shane truly wants to be with Lindsey but he doesn’t know how, and while Lindsey wants nothing more than to believe that Shane wants her, she can’t seem to convince herself. Their doubts, assumptions and lies all play in a part of their day-to-day lives, they only time they make sense is when they are together, but apart they can’t help but compare and be reminded of their differences.
"I want to be worthy of you, Lindsey."



Permanent is a tale about two people who are completely mismatched on the outside but a perfect fit on the inside. Shane was incredibly sweet, throwing people off with his bad-boy looks. He was playfully flirty but compassionate and protective. Lindsey was lost in her continuous balance of her mental ledger, she couldn't see the big picture until she was forced to close her books and just go with the flow. Completely insecure and innocent, it killed me to think this beautiful young woman couldn't be comfortable enough in her own skin to really be free from all her doubts and worries.

Along with Shane and Lindsey; Emily, Carson and Ivan make up the Permanent family. They were a great group of family friends to both Shane and Lindsey, doing whatever necessary to help each other out. They all treated Lindsey with kid gloves, and were very protective of her and over time they became hers as much as she was theirs.

It was a cute, fun read and as much as I wanted to love it, Lindsey's self doubt and assumptions were just a bit too much for me. I wanted to shake her, and Shane too when he decided to jump on the not worthy bandwagon. I selfishly also wanted more of an epilogue, but at least we can catch up with them in the next book even if they aren't the main attraction. Overall it was an enjoyable read.

ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.

Guest reviewing for:
Profile Image for CeCe.
3,612 reviews109 followers
July 31, 2014
3.5 Stars

I am just going to write the review the way I feel. I hope the words I write express that I enjoyed this book overall.
I loved the characters. I loved them. This is one of the very few books where the hero is a famous and popular tattoo artist who is hot and gets a lot of attention from women but does not brag or flaunt it. It is just assumed that he likes women and used to like the whole scene. Shane liked the whole scene until he meets Lindsey; his new neighbor who he wants to get to know.
Lindsey is an accountant who just moved to Los Angeles from Ohio. Lindsey wants to start fresh with a new plan and forget the nerd she was at home.
Shane is having problems with IRS. He forgot to file his taxes and is getting letters from IRS. Shane saved Lindsey the first day he met her and now Lindsey is going to save Shane from his problems with the IRS.
The reader immediately sees that this couple is just likeable. Lindsey may be insecure, but she has her reasons and I cannot believe that Shane feels he is not worthy of someone as sweet as Lindsey to love him. He is a great person. He is so kind, giving, and trusting and that is what gets him in the mess with the IRS. He is too trustworthy and giving. I love how he acts all alpha on shy Lindsey. I love Shane’s sister and his friends. “Friends” usually get on my nerves when they play a large part in these books, but I loved this group. They will do anything and everything for each other.
The book was a little corny, but I enjoyed it anyway. It took me awhile to get used to the writing, which was okay. It was not wordy since I did not find myself skimming or thinking that too much information was given. I just think some of the verbiage could have been put differently. Honestly if the writing was just a little different my rating would have been higher. I enjoyed this book a lot. I loved all the misunderstandings and the drama. There was always something or some issue going on. I always wanted to know how it was going to be solved. Plus, as I said, I loved these characters!!
A copy was provided by the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Profile Image for Bridgid.
120 reviews
October 29, 2013
Well, it was cute, and the characters were fun and quirky, but the story itself was not great. Very predictable story with a hero who has been so focused on having a good time and avoiding his business issues that he has put his livelihood at risk. This couple is sweet, too sweet. To make matters even worse the sex scenes are beyond boring. When you're talking about tattoo artist novels, HOT is what comes to mind. This one had NO heat. Shane is suppose to be this hot, tattoo artist to the stars that has been a well known party boy on Sunset Strip. You are told that he has been with a lot of women, no relationships but lots of experience with women. Yet the only two sex scenes in this book can best be describes as wham bam thank you ma'am. No foreplay, no good stuff, just shove it in and get busy. WTF? I really liked Lindsay, Shane, Carson, Ivan and Emily and of course there should be a story for asshole Dillion. I just hope the next stories live up to the characters that she has created.
Profile Image for Celsey Seivert.
134 reviews10 followers
October 10, 2013
I had the honor to read this book before release and i was amazed how fast i fell in love! Kim had me surprised the whole time.
I could not sleep till i finished Permanent, i felt like i was really with Lindsey and Shane on their adventure.

This story is about Lindsey who is an accountant just trying to make it on her own and Shane who is a tattoo artist living it up in Hollywood. When worlds collide and Shane's looks and work can not get him out of debt he has no idea what to do till one day Lindsey literally fell into his life. Two people totally opposite fall head over heals for each other. But can they survive? Is it just a fantasy they need to get out of their system?
Profile Image for Auhmanduh.
447 reviews
November 8, 2013
This was surprisingly a good read. The beginning threw me for a small loop with the way things transpired but after I readjusted my brain I really enjoyed it!

Kudo's!! and how in the heck you kept books 2's relationship a secret in this book is beyond me! never saw that coming.

I shall be reading it :)
Profile Image for Sabrina Olteanu.
217 reviews25 followers
October 20, 2013
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!!!

Kim Carmichael writes the most amazing and incredible book. I love her !!! The first book I've read was The Promise and I loved it from the first page, I just wanted to be much longer. But this one, Permanent, I loved it from first page to the last. It had me intrigued and second guessing myself from what I've learned, I loved the characters and how well they were formed. I've connected with them instantly and I couldn't put down my kindle. Why take a break when I wanted to know more?! Simply brilliant.

Our main characters are Shane Elliott who is a tattoo artist and Lindsay Stevens who is an accountant. Lindsay has just move to Hollywood in a new apartment complex, because she wanted to start her life over, leaving her family behind. She is beautiful, smart, very organized because she loves to have everything in order, she has an attitude, and she’s the perfect lady who has done everything to get where she is. She had to move in this city for this new job as an accountant. But, in her new complex she has the luck to meet Shane. He it’s different from her, you wouldn't expect these two to get along. Shane is hot, care-free, he likes the lady's a lot, something more like a bad boy (every girls dream), but with a golden heart if you give him a chance.

After meeting, Shane tells Lindsay and he needs her help in his tattoo shop, he wants her as his accountant. They finally make an arrangement, Lindsey agrees to be his account manager and get his tattoo shop in order with the IRS. But, things didn't work as they planned, sparks fly and temper's flair between this two. How could two entirely different people fall in love? They are from different worlds, but will they make it? Will they be Permanent?

My gosh did I loved this book! I loved the crew of Permanent, I loved everything about this book. It was like I was on a roller-coaster with all the feelings in this book. Wow!!! Now, I can’t wait for book 2! I want it now, please!!!! Thank you Kim Carmichael for writing such and interesting and lovable book! You made it perfect! I highly recommend it to anyone who will enjoy a perfect story!
Profile Image for Reanell Tisdale.
534 reviews183 followers
May 3, 2014
5++ I love this book Stars!!!

Do you know what kind of book I love? The kind that keeps me guessing as to what is gonna happen, the kind that makes my heart drop to my toes and makes me want to jump inside that book and become the person telling the story. And that's exactly what I got with this book!! From page 1 until the very end I was captivated by the magical words that Kim Carmichael wrote.


This story is written in multiple POV's you get to jump inside Shane's head first, and let me tell you it's a great place to be. His character is one that I easily fell head over heels for and I am dying to get more story from him. So Kim keep this series coming!!!


So Shane hears a crash coming from the apartment next door and runs and kicks the door down to save what he thinks is the old lady, new neighbor. What he finds however is the new tenant is a young woman and is laying on the floor behind a pile of boxes with a gash on her forehead. Shane then makes it his mission to become this girls friend.


Lindsay moved away from home to become somebody different. She is tired of being used by everyone and leaving her heart-broken in the after math. She didn't expect to be taken in by the tattooed hotties next door to her. They need an accountant to help them with the shit storm a brewing from the IRS and she agrees since Shane came to her rescue after she fell.


We get some great side characters as well. Carson and Emily are the siblings to Shane and Ivan is his best friend. And they all adore Lindsay. I'm so glad that Kim is making the next book about Ivan and Emily, I can't wait to get my hands on that one!!


I can't even describe how much I loved this book. I didn't want to stop reading once I started. It's so refreshing to find a new author and fall in love with their work. I think that is the most fun part of blogging. Meeting all these new authors who I might not have read before.



I'm giving my stamp of approval on this one babes! Go grab your copy and fall in love with Shane and Lindsay's story!!
Profile Image for Kim McNiel.
Author 3 books47 followers
October 10, 2013
This book completely blew me away. I fell so hard for these characters and I couldn't stop turning the pages. Author Kim Carmichael has done a most excellent job of weaving us into the lives of her characters. Every emotion there is came pouring out of me while reading this book. I laughed, cried, got angry, had my heart racing, got excited, anxious, happy, cried a little more and it just left me breathless, seriously.

The main characters, Shane and Lindsay, are complete opposites in every sense of the word. Lindsay is an account, a prim and proper lady who has just moved to a new city and taken on a new job. Shane is the hottest tattoo artist in the city and is anything but proper. He's a very sexy, carefree, fly by the seat of your pants kind of guy, while Lindsay is a beautiful and extremely organized lady. She must have everything in perfect order. But these two need each other. Shane needs her services as an accountant, and Lindsay needs to know that she is worth while to someone. The two find themselves involved in each others lives and have to sort how to work things out, or if it's even worth taking the risk.

I absolutely adored this book and cannot wait until book two comes out. This is an awesome beginning to a very promising series.
Profile Image for Chelle.
Author 19 books62 followers
October 10, 2013
Lindsey is on the fast track to being a high powered corporate accountant. She moved away from her family to start over. The mantra of doing things herself stuck in her head. A freak accident, brings the bad boy neighbor to her rescue. Unable to get away from his relentless charm. She agrees to help him in his troubles.

Shane meets the sexy Lindsey flat on her back in the middle of boxes. He refuses to leave her side until he gets her the attention she needs. Finding out she is an accountant may just work to his advantage.

The two make a business arrangement. Lindsey agrees to be his account manager and get his tattoo shop in order. Sparks fly and temper's flair. As the corporate fast lane she was on collides with her beliefs and her heart. Insecurities rise, and worlds collide, as two people try and figure out where they fit in each other's worlds.

Do opposites really attract? If they do can they really make it Permanent? Find out in this hear wrenching story, that will have you biting your nails, and rooting for two lost souls.
I love this story, highly recommend it to anyone who loves romance
Profile Image for 8o's.
441 reviews16 followers
October 18, 2013
Permanent is Kim Carmichael's first book in her Indelibly Marked series. Permanent features tattoo artist Shane Elliott and accountant Lindsay Stevens. Lindsay is new to Hollywood and meets Shane since he is her neighbor in her apartment complex. Important to the story is also Shane's family & friends who work at the tattoo shop with him.

Permanent is written in a different writing style that I am used to. Not everything is spelled out right away. There is a lot of guesswork in the beginning that I wasn't for sure if I liked that right off the bat but as the story progressed I was totally engrossed and couldn't put the book down. Why is Lindsay trying to reinvent herself? Does Shane like her or just using her? Why is Shane's older brother such a douchebag? I found that I enjoyed the bit of mystery. I absolutely loved how Shane and Lindsay's romance progressed (no insta-romance here). Also thought the supporting characters were great. Definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
3 reviews
October 14, 2013
okay i will admit i saw that it was a series and went to the author and asked right out does this have an hea or is it a step one in a multi step story.. ITS AN HEA and oh my i fell in love with the characters right off.. slightly quarky heroine and a badboy with a heart of gold LOVE IT!! The whole cast of characters i fell for even the evil Dillon (I hope he gets redeemed down the road but for now i will love to hate him) I give this 5 stars and a HURRY UP WITH BOOK TWO i need more of everyone!!!! I love stories where you continue on with a new couple but still get to go back and see those you fell in love with at the beginning!! JOB WELL DONE!!!
Profile Image for Janneke Wolbers.
475 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2017
Its your typical romance.. Boy meets girl..
But with the humor and the way they meet it makes this unique!! Absolutly love Kim Carmichaels books and cant wait to read the second book!
Profile Image for Dianne.
6,815 reviews631 followers
January 13, 2014
Need some good old fashioned, romance in a contemporary world? Permanent by Kim Carmichael mixes the unlikeliest of couples and comes up with a warm, smile-worthy romance that just plain feels good! Shane is an artist, a tattoo artist, one of the best, gifted and covered in tats, like a walking billboard for his business. His black and blue Mohawk, along with his tats gives him that bad boy look, the kind of man your mother told you to avoid. Lindsay is the tight-laced accountant from Ohio, trying to spread her wings, away from the sheltering and sometimes smothering embrace of her family. Was she ready for California or Shane? Lindsay tries to keep her distance, never admitting they could work as a couple, while Shane pours on his natural charm and loyalty as a friend, never quite sure enough of himself to make their relationship something more. Classic story, you say, boy meets girl, their worlds are light years apart, but their hearts are drawn to each other like homing beacons, while each one harbors their own insecurities about their worth.

Permanent is more about the journey through the pitfalls faced by Shane and Lindsay as they are dancing around a relationship that is clearly theirs for the taking. Lindsay is trying to be self-sufficient; Shane is trying to help her with his merry band of friends, Lindsay uses what she knows to help Shane out of a tax issue he has created for himself. Round and round they go, insecurities constantly getting in the way. Kim Carmichael has created a wonderfully warm and endearing romance that doesn’t need off the charts wild and crazy sex! With characters that run the gamut from boringly conservative to outlandishly quirky, each character played their parts well, whether making a cameo appearance to fuel the plot or as a fixture throughout! For me, the characters made the story! The plot was made better by the characters and their great dialogue! Just not sure about all those tattoos, what happens when …oh never mind…

Looking for a fun and light romance? Need a heroine who doesn’t realize how much she has to offer as herself or a hero who is more valiant knight than bad boy? Sometimes a sweet romance can be good and Permanent is definitely that! 4.5 Stars

I received this copy as part of the Permanent Blog Tour & Giveaway stopping at Tome Tender January 20-February 1, 2014!

Series: Indelibly Marked, Book 1
Publication Date: November 12, 2013
Publisher: Breathless Books, an Imprint of Assent Publishing
ISBN: 1628279109
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble


Profile Image for Neyra ♦.
306 reviews108 followers
January 29, 2014

Another one that leaves me wishing for the Sandman to take me into Lalaland in order to save me from such misery..

Lindsay Stevens moves from a small town to California in order to leave the "Hollywood dream", I guess. She is an accountant who went from being a brunette-y nerd to total blonde bombshell (can't walk in heels to save her life, though) in order for her to prove to her overbearing parents she can take care of herself. Yet, only a week after her move, she ends up getting taken to the ER by next door neighbor, Shane Elliot, Hollywood's hottest tattoo artist who also happens to be drowning in debt to the IRS.

I thought their first meeting was pretty funny, Shane hears a loud thump, believes his neighbor is an old itty bitty since there has been no noise coming from next door, until he rushes in to be a hero, and BAM! Finds Lindsay sprawled on the floor with a minor head wound. Immediately, Shane and his brother Carson tend to her and after much resistance from Lindsay end up taking her to the hosptal. One thing that didn't endear me to Lindsay was her co-dependency on Shane, and what drove me up the wall? Her constant "that's not in the ledger", "that's not in the plan" inner monologue bullshit that makes me wish, hope and pray that accountants or ANYONE for that matter never do this in RL! She also changes her appearance and pretends to be someone she's not. I'm all for changing your look and starting fresh, but completely erasing the person you were? No. Just, no.

Shane Elliot isn't a terribly character, but he's not a great one either. He borders on controlling, yet he's not abusive. He owns a tattoo shop but he's on the verge on losing it all if he doesn't get his shit together, and fast. I loved that he was a tattoo artist, too. I believe whether or not you have them, tattoos speak a language most of us will understand. Back to Shane though, if I had to rate him on a scale of one through ten, I'd give him a three for thoughtfulness. However, because of his borderline psycho-controlling ways, I'm calling a WARNING! WALK AWAY SLOWLY announcement, especially since as soon as Lindsay says she's an accountant Shane's goes all ape-shit cray-cray, "It has to be you." Ugh..

The secondary characters were somewhat endearing to me. Though, I honestly find it utterly unbelievable that every single one of Shane's friends took to Lindsay rather quickly. No one resisted? No one thought she was a stuck up bitch for trying to find ways to say no to them, every goddamn time? They were a great support system for both MC though, yet still not quite as developed to get me interested in finding out more about them.

This story is a cutesy type of romance, and though I'm all for happily every afters, I can make do without all the sugary sweet. There are moments of tension, but in my opinion were just added for that added shock of "what's going to happen to them now". To me, the story was poorly executed and the characters need way more believability in order to really hook me into this world.
Profile Image for Leia.
255 reviews8 followers
October 21, 2013
“Don’t you think people can change?” She moved closer, the constriction in her stomach subsiding a bit when he pulled her against him.
“I doubt it.” He kissed the top of her head.
“What if they work really hard on it?” She swallowed the lump in her throat.
“If they have to work so hard, maybe they shouldn’t try to change in the first place.”


Lindsay Stevens is all about change. She has uprooted her life in Ohio. She dyed her hair, bleached her teeth, went shopping for all new tailored suits and sky high heels and purchased brand new furniture for her new apartment in Hollywood.

You see, Lindsay is a nerd. As an accountant, she has a way with numbers. She always has. Lindsay is also highly attracted to the stereotypical bad boy who wants nothing from her except for her help when they are in a bind. And she is done with her life. So, she reinvents herself and moved to a prestigious corporate accounting firm in California.

And who should happen to fall into her life??? That's right!!! Her tattooed, bad-boy neighbor - Shane Elliot.

Shane is a renowned tattoo artist. He owns Permanent Tattoo - the tattoo parlor to the stars. Shane also happens to be in deep trouble with the IRS. Trouble that he has been avoiding like the plague.

So - after Shane saves Lindsay from killing herself by trying to unpack her house in her new stilettos - Lindsay owes him - and she agrees to help him with his "tax situation".

This story is stock full of humor and quirkiness. I loved it!! You would think that Shane, being the tattooed bad boy would automatically be some super Alpha Male - and you would be wrong!! He is so unbelievably sweet and charming. I loved him so much!

Lindsay grew on me. I'm not going to lie - I kinda wanted to smack her more than once. But I had to remind myself that she's been hurt before - the exact same way it seemed that Shane was using her. In the end - I loved her.

Be not fooled, my dear ones - though this is a story about Shane and Lindsay - the "secondary" characters are almost as vital to this story as Shane, himself. I loved, loved, loved Emily, Carson and especially Ivan!!

As Shane struggles with being enough for Lindsay, and she fights with her past - they have to learn to rely on each other and trust in the one solid thing that they have built together - their relationship.

But is love enough?? When one person is lying to herself about who she is and the other is changing into something he's not to please her?

Was it a desperately emotional book that changed my life? No.

Was is stuffed full of angst and tears? No.

Would I recommend it? Abso-freakin-lutely!

This book is fun! It's an easy, relaxing read that had me smiling a lot. I am looking so forward to the next book in this series!

*This can be read as a stand-alone*

4.5 Permanent Stars!!!!
Profile Image for Carver's Book Cravings.
166 reviews45 followers
February 12, 2014
Received an ARC for an honest review
4 Stars by Guest Reviewer Jessica

What a sweet, fun read this one was! I’ve been reading a lot of heavy, super-angsty books lately and as much as I enjoy them, I needed a little break for my psyche’s sake. Turns out, Permanent was the perfect antidote!
Permanent is the story of Shane, mohawked tattoo artist extraordinaire and Lindsay, a serious, buttoned-up accountant. They first cross paths when Lindsay moves into the apartment next to Shane’s and their worlds collide. And collide they do-Shane’s life couldn’t be any more different from what Lindsay is used to and she is immediately overwhelmed when Shane and his close-knit band of brother, sister, and best friend take her into their fold. Lindsay has deep-seated insecurities and constantly questions what they’re doing with her and why they bother spending time with her. Before long, Shane and Lindsay’s friendship inevitably becomes something more. Turns out, free-spirited Shane has some insecurities of his own and wonders if he can ever be the man worthy of Lindsay’s affections. Financial woes and a serious lack of communication lead to some major roadblocks in what is clear to the reader (and Shane’s and Lindsay’s friends) could be an amazing relationship.
As much as she didn’t want to admit it, the moment she took over Shane’s financial fiasco, he took over her life. It sort of happened slowly, like mold growing where you couldn’t see it, and she sighed. Who was she kidding? It happened fast like a kick in the backside.
I adored Shane and his family and best friend, Ivan. It was clear that they would do anything for each other and they really owned who they were. They were funny and supportive of one another. The dialogue was hilarious one minute and tender and emotional the next.
She wanted him before, how could she not? Only this was the first time she admitted it to herself, and with her realization her stomach turned to a pool of black tattoo ink, warming her and making her a little sick at the same time.
Permanent is a book that just makes you feel good reading it and I did so with a
smile on my face. I did have a few minor issues with the book-Lindsay’s character and her complete and utter lack of worldly experiences was grating at times. She was just SO serious and intense that occasionally I found it difficult to relate to her at all. As Lindsay is an accountant and a numbers girl, I initially found her use of a mental “ledger” to weigh the pros and cons of various situations to be a clever plot device. However, after what felt like the millionth mention, I grew tired hearing about her ledger.
I would definitely recommend Permanent to anyone looking for a light, very enjoyable read. I look forward to catching up with the Permanent Tattoo clan in the next installment in the series!
Profile Image for Angela DeMarco.
385 reviews4 followers
November 29, 2014
Lindsay Stevens is from Ohio and she's considered a nerd she’s always been smart and extremely good with numbers. Other's have noticed that about her and have always wanted her help….that’s all they want from and nothing else and she’s tired of being used. Lindsay has always been attracted to the “bad boy” those type of men never showed any interest in her unless they need her help.

Lindsay is all about change she decides to move from Ohio to Hollywood California to take a job as an account with a prestigious accounting firm. Leaving behind her family and her old self, she dyes her hair, bleaches her teeth, goes shopping for all new tailored suits, kick ass high heels, and new furniture for her apartment in Hollywood.

Shane Elliot is a tattoo artist and owner of Permanent Tattoo….tattoo parlor to the stars. Shane is not your typical bad boy alpha male, behind those tattoos and blue black Mohawk hairstyle is a sweet and charming man. He also happens to be up to his eyes balls in trouble with the IRS.

The first time they meet is when Lindsay is trying to hang a picture on her wall in her stiletto high heels, she looses her balance causing her to fall to the ground. Who just so happens to save her life none other than the tattooed bad boy next door neighbor Shane.

After finding out what Lindsay does for a living Shane asks her for help with his tax situation, she knows she owes him for saving her life and agrees to help him.

Lindsay did grow on me throughout this book she was tough and guarded, you have to remember she’s been hurt in the past by men who resemble Shane. You understand her reasoning for what she did.

They both struggle with there feelings for one another, Lindsay with her past, Shane and his problems fearing he may never be the man she deserves.

Why can’t love be enough….why must one person lie about who she truly is, the other one changes his lifestyle to please and let her into his world?

The secondary characters in this book Emily and Carson Shane’s siblings, and Ivan were almost as important to the story as Shane and Lindsay. They brought humor and life into the story.

Book two in series (Indelibly Marked) “Temporary” is featured in the ending giving you a glimpse into Emily and Ivan.

Permanent was well written and I thoroughly did enjoy the story.

Don’t you think people can change?” She moved closer, the constriction in her stomach subsiding a bit when he pulled her against him.
“I doubt it.” He kissed the top of her head.
“What if they work really hard on it?” She swallowed the lump in her throat.
Profile Image for Tamera McIntosh.
29 reviews21 followers
May 31, 2014

Permanent is the first book in a new series by Kim Carmicheal. I so fell in love with all the characters and I am looking forward to the next book. I enjoyed that not all things were reviled from the start, some only coming to light in the last few chapters.
Shane Elliot is a Mohawk tattooed up man, the total bad boy image, yet he has a heart of gold. Permanent Ink is Shane's shop where there is a wonderful wealth of second set of characters Emily, Carson, Shane's sister and brother along with his best friend Ivan who are lovable, who are just as important to this story without taking away from Shane and Lindsay's. I am sure hoping for more of them in the next book. Even thought Shane has this bad boy image his shop is in trouble with the IRS.
Lindsay Stevens is a bit OCD and an accountant from Ohio, who worked in her fathers office. She comes to California to reinvent herself to do things her own way to prove to herself and family she can. Lindsay is always planning things out and is a fun character to read about and at times rooting her on, or shaking your head.
Shane an Lindsay meet when she is trying to hang a picture while braking in her new high heels.Yes that dose not go so well and she falls making a loud thud that Shane hears next door. Worried that his new possibly elderly new neighbor has hurt themselves, Shane really dose break the door to get in to make sure they are ok. What he finds is the sweet innocent sexy Lindsay. From this point on the story only gets better and better!
What starts out as Lindsay helping Shane with his IRS problem soon turns and heats up between the two of them. Shane's charm and lovable ways start to break down Lindsay's inter turmoil, yet she has her own secrets and she is not sure Shane can except.
This book was full of discovery of the characters and family. Even when Shane's jerk of a brother Dillon shows up. You love to hate Dillon yet hope that at some point down the road he makes things right. It was a fun read and very hard to put down, The misunderstanding between the two were fun, believable and had you shaking your head. I loved the banter between them all, the sexual tension between them was just right without over taking the story adding to it. This book dose not have a cliffhanger yet it is a must read and I for one am looking forward to the next book. ( Yes the Characters stayed with me for a few days )
Profile Image for Deneale Williams.
166 reviews3 followers
April 7, 2016
When I received this book ages ago, it arrived in a box with several others, and it was autographed. Did you hear what I said? Autographed! What all could a person ask for from one of their favorite writers? Books, signed and right to your door! Yeah!

So here I am sick in bed, and can’t reach my computer because everyone took my electronics from me, and there the book sits. Its looking at me, calling to me. I can’t stop coughing, I can’t sleep, and I need to read. Yeah!

I pick it up, and start reading. Shane Elliot greets me at page one. A tattoo artist, that as I keep reading seems like everything any woman in her wildest dreams would be interested in. I mean, you know. If you like a handsome man, with tattoos, and muscles, and you know—hot.

What’s even better about Shane, he likes to stand out, and have fun. But the bad part, is that Shane is pretending that underneath it all, his problems don’t exist. You can’t do that when your problems are bill collectors, especially when those bill collectors end up being the IRS.

One day, much to Shane’s surprise he ends up with a new neighbor. A person in debt usually needs an account to help them figure out how to get out of debt, and fix their problems correct? Well low and behold the beautiful Lindsay Stevens is just that. Shane thinks he just might be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The only thing is, Lindsay has a past, that she wants to leave in the past. So she tries to keep her distance with Shane, and finds it hard to do so, because after all, he is just the kind of guy that her heart is seemingly yearning for.

Will Lindsay’s past come back to haunt her, and will Shane get his debt back on track? These two must learn to accept one another, for who and what they are, can they do this?

“Permanent” is the first book in the ‘Indelibly Marked Series’. It is a book that will take you into the lives of a tattoo artist, and of course his debt, and long with his lifestyle. The book is written quite exquisitely and you will enjoy every minute of it, as you fall in love with the characters, and learn about them, and their lives. This is a wonderful five-star book, that you will want to read again and again.
Profile Image for Donna.
685 reviews5 followers
February 2, 2014
What do you get when you take a mousey, geeky, innocent accountant from Ohio, move her to Hollywood and mix in a tattooed “bad boy” who is in trouble with the IRS? You get Permanent. Lindsay Stevens is trying to remake her-self. She never really dated in high school, guys only paid attention to her when the needed something from her. So she leaves her old life behind and moves to Hollywood to start her new life. While trying to hang a picture in her new apartment she falls causing the hammer to gauge her forehead. Luckily her neighbor Shane Elliot is home to hear the crash. He burst through her door coming to her rescue, disrupting her plans to take care of herself. What will happen when these two find the need each other’s help?

Honestly when I first started reading this book I was not impressed. I found the character of Shane to be cliché and utterly ridiculous but I don’t like to give up on book so I pushed on and read the entire book. The first few chapters were tough for me, but the further I got into the story, the more wrapped up I became in these two characters. I think it goes without saying that Lindsay has her share of self-esteem issues, constantly asking what she’s doing trying to remake herself, why would a guy like Shane want anything real to do with her etc. But I found it very refreshing to see the “bad boy” have his share of insecurities. He too has self-doubt about being good enough. Yes this story line occurs in other books, but this author presented in such a way I felt his doubt, I empathized with him and I wanted to smack him and tell him she didn’t care that he was a tattoo artist.

The supporting character, Emily, Carson and Dillon, Shane’s siblings and Ivan his best friend are wonderful. Again in the beginning they seemed strange and overdone but by the time I finished the book I loved them all. I think this series has potential and I am interested in reading Emily and Ivan’s story in Temporary. I give this book 4 stars and 3 hands down the pants. (Did I mention there are some steamy scenes?)

“Don’t make me leave you like this.” “You already did.”
Profile Image for BooksandBeyondFiftyShades.
1,350 reviews157 followers
August 30, 2014
Have you ever wanted to change who you were? Change your past and everything that came along with it? How far would you go to reinvent yourself? For Lindsey, she went half way across the country to get away from her past and try to change her future. Before she left, Lindsey had her life all laid out for her; loving family, great job and a lot of help. Lindsey made it her goal when she moved to California from Ohio to make it on her own. She refused to take help from anyone. Enter Shane Elliot and his crew.

Shane is the exact opposite of what Lindsey should want in a guy. Colorful Mohawk, concert tees and various tattoos covering his whole body. Lindsey pretty much falls into Shane’s world at exactly the right time. A corporate accountant, Lindsey agrees, against her better judgment to help Shane with an IRS problem. Both Lindsey and Shane know that they are complete opposites, but they can’t help the pull they have on one another. Will Lindsey and Shane be able to see past their differences or will they prove to once again come between Lindsey and the object of her affections.

I really enjoyed this novel of opposites who attract. The characters were believable and loveable. I felt myself wanting to be a part of their tiny group. It was nice to see a story of such a close knit family, well except where Dillon was concerned. This book was definitely a page turner for me and I read it in two days, hey a girl’s gotta sleep.

There was so much more to this story than steamy love scenes, but don’t get me wrong, when the time finally came, the sparks flew. As a reader you want so badly for things to work out for Shane and Lindsey. You can sense that she has a secret, but we don’t find it out right away. I was a little upset that her secret wasn’t more mind blowing than it was but I feel that it explained Lindsey’s behavior perfectly.

The author does a great job at developing the characters and you immediately want to know more about everyone. I was glad to see that book two in the series, Temporary was about Ivan and Emily. I can’t wait to read more about Shane, Lindsey and the rest of the Permanent crew.
66 reviews2 followers
August 11, 2014
Lindsay Stevens is a accountant. She didn't want to work for her father's company and wanted to make it on her own. She needed a change in life so she boxed up one box and left home. Everything else in her life is new. New clothes, new dishes, new furniture, a new life. Because of a freak accident she met her new neighbors. Enter Shane Elliot. The epitome of a bad boy, he has a blue-black mohawk and is covered in tattoos. He even owns a tattoo shop. Shane lives with his brother and sister in Hollywood and they all work together. Soon, they bring Lindsay into their fold and she becomes one of them. Yet, she is always wondering if she really is part of them, if they really want her, or is she going to be used and thrown away when they are done with her. There could only be one reason they want her around - her expertise with numbers and taxes -right? Or is it? Has she actually found someone she can trust and give herself to- her heart, soul, and body- or will she just run back to Ohio with her family?

Kim Carmichael wrote a wonderful story here! Quirky from the beginning with instances like bowing and becoming a knight in shining armor, just helps to add to the reading experience. They help you understand the interpersonal interactions and the different personas of the characters. It also helps you to instantly feel you are one of the group and actually involved in the book. The story flows so easily, but isn't necessarily predictable. In some instances you might think you know what is going to happen, but you have to see how they go about it. There is a lot within this book. There is passion, there is strength, there is weakness, there is love.

I found it was not easy to put the book down and I would read it for hours on end. I finished it rather quickly because of this, which only left me wanting for more!!! I'm glad there is another book in the series, as I really like the style of writing that Carmichael does. Each book in this series can stand alone, as each book is about a different couple.
Profile Image for Lauren.
604 reviews48 followers
December 12, 2014


Holy hot inked romance! Permanent is such a good book.

Shane Elliot is the tattoo artist to the stars. If you want a good tattoo in Hollywood, he’s your man. Yet as talented as he is with ink, he hasn’t managed his business very well. The IRS is knocking at his door and he knows he’s in trouble. His luck might just have shifted when he rescues his clumsy new neighbor that turns out to be a budding accountant that new to the area. Now, all he has to do is convince her to be his business manager.

Lindsey only wanted to get away from her family and into a life of her own. She moves as far away as she can from her overbearing father’s business and make a name for herself as an accountant. You think that would be easy enough with her talent but the fateful drop of a hammer has led her into a completely different kind of world, Shane’s. She feels obligated to help her neighbor rescuer, but she has no idea that her tattooed rescuer has a soft heart and eyes for her only. Can she focus on the job at hand or she gets involved with her work and client?

Ahhh….I love romance stories about two polar opposites being brought together by fate!! Mismatched in so many ways yet undeniably attracted to each other. To say this was an enjoyable read is an understatement. My only complaint is that they took their dear sweet time confessing their mutual attraction. I’m not one for instantaneous relationships, but this one took just a little too long for my tastes. But, it only slightly affects my love for this story. Permanent is a great new adult romance read. I am greatly looking forward to checking out the next book in the series, Temporary.
Profile Image for Nic.
362 reviews114 followers
October 21, 2013
Great story!!!! Love the characters!!! Tatted up book boy alert! Make sure to add Permanent by Kim Carmichael to your TBR! This is a brilliant read you don't want to miss out on.

I love when I start a book and can't tear my eyes away from it! My husband on the other hand might not love it as much... LOL! I started Permanent late last night and didn't put it down, other than when my iPad smacked me in the face at 2am because I was dozing off! I couldn't get enough of this brilliant story or its fabulous characters. This book has such a great feel to it.

I loved the interactions between the characters and their sense of closeness. These are not characters who pop in and out of the book, each and every character is important in this story. If you love a tatted up, mohawk rockin' bad boy who really isn't a bad boy at all you need to meet Shane Elliott! He will seriously melt your heart, you won't be able to resist this big sexy softie! Lindsay Stevens is sweet and innocent. There was so much more to her character then I thought and I loved that it took until the end of the book for me to really get her.

Kudos to Kim Carmichael for writing a book that was fabulous because of the fabulous story and characters, not because it was full of sex. Permanent has plenty of sexual tension with great buildup and was most definitely hot and sexy but sex was not used as a filler in this book! Permanent had great flow to the story and kept me wanting more.

If you are looking for a story that will grab your attention immediately with amazing characters and witty banter look no further. Sexy and romantic, Permanent will have you swooning! Make sure you don't miss out on this read :-)
Profile Image for Jackie.
Author 21 books473 followers
March 4, 2014
When we first meet Lindsey she is lying on her back, bleeding and staring up at a tattooed, mohawked knight in shining armor. When Shane bursts into Lindsey’s apartment he fully expects a little old lady with lots of cats. He is surprised to find a beautiful accountant. Shane soon realizes Lindsey could be his salvation with the IRS and inserts himself into Lindsey’s life. Lindsey tries to guard herself against Shane’s charms. She’s been along this road with guys who only want her brains. But, Shane seems different and that isn’t just the artwork on his arms talking. Can Lindsey let herself open up to Shane or will he prove to be just like all the others?

I fell in love with this book and all the characters. I couldn’t put this down and even had dreams about meeting my own tattooed, mowhawked, knight in shining armor. Shane and his gang area all wonderfully unique and very fun characters. They really bring the story to colorful life. It’s almost as if the characters themselves are tattooed into the story. They are permanent and colorful works of art. Kim Carmichael weaves an opposites attract story like no other. Lindsey and Shane couldn’t be more different but by the end you see how similar they are. The love story set in the tattoo parlor and accounting offices is definitely a new take. I loved every bit of this story and can’t wait for book two. Kim has a wonderful gem in this first book that will bring anyone who picks it up on to the side of hot bad boys with awesome tattoos. Overall, I can’t say enough wonderful things about this book and Kim Carmichael. When you pick this up (because I know you will) you will be like me and unable to put it down and waiting anxiously for book two!
Profile Image for Nicole Huffman ~ Author Groupies.
290 reviews53 followers
May 17, 2014

This book called to me because I love tattoos, especial men with tattoos, and I'm studying to be an account. It took me a little while to get into it but after a few chapters I found myself really enjoying it and about at about halfway through I couldn't put it down. I needed to know if Lindsay and Shane would find their HEA.

Lindsay had left her life in Ohio working at her dad's accounting business to be a corporate accountant in LA. She changes her appearance and tries to be someone else and fit in. However the place she actually fits in is exactly the opposite of where her the careful formed ledger says she should be.

Shane is a tattoo artist with a mo-hawk (the total opposite of a corporate business type). He is extremely talent at what he does but has some issues with the dreaded IRS. He doesn't do relationships, he enjoys his carefree no strings attached like, that is until Lindsay walks into his life, well actually falls in to his life.

Lindsay and Shane's worlds collide. They are totally opposites in appearance but just work together. There is a mutual instant attraction. Lindsay is naive and has been hurt in the past and she likes to run away from her problems. Shane doesn't have relationship experiences and feels he isn't good enough for Lindsay. Can they both get past their issues to find a permanent future together?

I really enjoyed the main characters, but what makes the story even better are the secondary characters. I loved Carson, Emily, and Ivan ( maybe even Dillion) and I can't wait to get their stories!!! We even get a little peek into Book 2 at the end and boy is that a shocker!!! This was a funny read that proves opposites do really attract, with enjoyable characters, hot guys, and lots of tattoos.
Profile Image for Romance Readers Retreat.
2,346 reviews225 followers
August 19, 2014
4-1/2 stars

Lindsay left home in Ohio to reinvent herself in California and have a fresh start. New style, accounting job in a big corporation. It all seemed too good to be true. One night after a little incident she meets Shane Elliott he's all she wants but feels like she can never have because she's scared of getting hurt but Shane won't take no for an answer and he needs Lindsay in his life. Will she finally let herself be happy or will her sense of self preservation get the best of her?

"I owe you one...more than one!"

This book was amazing! The beginning confused the hell out of me as so many characters are thrown in the first few pages it was a big overwhelming but you quickly get used to it and to the dynamic of the characters and their life and life style. They are one big family and it's great to see that they stick together and help each other through everything.

I absolutely loved the characters! The hero is a famous tattoo artist which makes it even better!The story is beautifully written very sweet and very funny too had me cracking up a few times. The heroine was a bit "annoying" at times with her insicurities but it got better after a while. She seemed to be putting herself down through all the book but then towards the end you understand why.

The other characters are as loveable and i was shocked reading the preview for the second book! Well done on keeping it a secret till the second book.

This is the love story between two persons who, for society's standards, shouldn't fall in love. A few drama bits happen but nothing too much or too overwhelming.

Would def recommend this for any tattoo artist book lovers as this is one of the best ones i've read to date and i cannot wait to start the second one!
Profile Image for Michelle Bowman  / We Love Kink .com.
468 reviews23 followers
January 15, 2014
his book proves that Ink is not the only thing Indelible. Permanent conveys the evolving love story of two unconventional characters. Shane is a sexy owner of a tattoo shop in the heart of Hollywood, California. This lively tattooist with his take charge ways seems to have complete control over his life, except for one situation he decides to pretend doesn’t exist. But all that changes when he hears a crash coming from his new neighbor’s apartment. Laying on the ground with a nice gash on her head(from her own clumsiness), is Lindsay. A woman who did everything she physically can to remove herself from the life she lived in the Midwest. Because of Lindsay’s bungling ways, the two of them find common ground thus forging a symbiotic relationship that progresses into something more. Unfortunately their love is postponed as Lindsay and Shane play emotional tug-a-war with themselves, constantly questioning if they are worthy to pursue a relationship with the other. This story displays realistic character flaws that get in the way of couples having healthy relationships. I adored the characters and the storyline kept me wanting more. Overall this a great read. However, I am not a fan of the style in which this book was written. I prefer reading from each character’s perspective and getting a sense of their tone which helps me to identify with them. Nonetheless, Mrs. Carmichael wrote an entertaining love story filled with sexy and interesting characters that will be adored by romance readers.

*free copy provided for honest review
reviewed by Lourdes
for more reviews visit welovekink(dot)com
Profile Image for Explicit  Escapes.
32 reviews
August 14, 2014
This was my first read by Ms. Carmichael, but it won’t be my last! I was hooked from the first page when this story started with a bang. No, literally, a body hit the floor. The lead female, Lindsay was adorable, determined, and awkward. Born and raised in the Midwest, she made the trip to Hollywood for a new job and a new identity. Tired of being a wallflower constantly overlooked, and abused she has a well laid out plan. Of course, we all know, the best-laid plans go awry, and hers are no different.

Unlike most of us, Lindsay has a cushion in the form of tall, tattooed, and intense, Shane. The tattooist to the stars has a heart of gold, and manners that seem at odds with his appearance. Though the blue Mohawk, tats, and gorgeous facial structure did it for me. Can you say yummy? If that wasn’t enough, The minute he swooped in and began to take care of things turned him into an instant book boyfriend for me. While Shane’s alpha behavior can be a bit much at times, he never fully crosses over into douche territory and is man enough to admit when he’s wrong, and try to fix the problem. I think I may have liked that most about him.

Permanent is the story of two broken people who have to work through their own issues to find their happily-ever-after together I loved seeing Lindsay come into her own, and Shane finally finish growing up. Sometimes it just takes the right person to bring out the best version of yourself. Full of secrets, adventure, and humor, which I love, this is a must read. The passion between them is built beautifully, and when they finally come together, it’s pure magic. This book is a must read.
Profile Image for Jamie.
141 reviews9 followers
November 9, 2013
Famous tattoo artist sporting a Mohawk and ink of his own with a sweet side for a quiet, shy, and timid accountant from Ohio...that's one couple you'd never think would make it, but in this book, that's exactly what happens!

I've always been a fan of tattoos so when I read the blurb to this one, I knew I had to read it. I am SO glad that I did because I loved it.

It was such a nice breath of fresh air because this one was written like a true romance should be. They meet under some funny circumstances, they both know they're attracted to one another, differences keep them apart but they can't fight the pull of desire for one another. They don't jump in the sack moments after meeting one another, they flirt and gradually build up to being with one another. They fight the odds and keep at it, both of them changing a little bit to become the people that they want to be for one another.

I just LOVE Shane. He's hot, charming, sweet, and funny. The way that he is always there for and wants to protect Lindsey had me swooning! Lindsey made me yell out loud a few times (literally lol) because she's so timid and sweet that at times, she makes you just want to shake her and say, "let loose a little bit"! Shane gets a spark out of her though, and it was great to see.

The secondary characters in the book are great as well - it's obvious that they will show up again in future books in this series. I can't wait to read the next one.

5/5 stars on this one for sure!
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