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The Leaves #1
Inky
Anika “Inky” Redding is passionate about two things; her love of painting and her fiancé Evan. While working as a bartender to pay her bills, she meets Cole, a sexy divorcee. She denies their mutual attraction and tries to put him out of her mind.
When an abusive person from her childhood makes an unexpected visit, Inky’s world is turned upside down. Secrets are revealed and truths are exposed leaving Inky devastated and questioning what she thought was love. As she picks up the pieces and tries to move on, she finds her path crosses with Cole once again and this time, she cannot deny the passion between them.
Once she opens her heart again, will she be able to move forward or will her past find a way to stop her?
When an abusive person from her childhood makes an unexpected visit, Inky’s world is turned upside down. Secrets are revealed and truths are exposed leaving Inky devastated and questioning what she thought was love. As she picks up the pieces and tries to move on, she finds her path crosses with Cole once again and this time, she cannot deny the passion between them.
Once she opens her heart again, will she be able to move forward or will her past find a way to stop her?
293 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2013
44 people are currently reading
2429 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
September 12, 2017
Luckily, I wasn't expecting light and fluffy...
This is the second book I have read by this author, so I knew she had the power to rip my guts out and slowly put me back together. When I bought this book I was still on my fan-girling high from reading Genevieve Clare and didn't read the blurb or reviews. I probably should have. I spent half of this book not particularly liking the hero or to some extent the heroine. Then thing started to become clearer and I settled in for the ride.
There was a very dark undertone to this story with subjects that may be a trigger for some. The heroine grew up in an abusive home where she was frequently attacked by her Mother and her Mother's boyfriend. Some thing are discussed which made me uncomfortable, but not enough to stop me from going on. Our hero (the real one) didn't come out of his childhood unscathed either. Lots of darkness and nastiness this couple has had to face before they even met each other.
OMG!! That ending...
Thanks Ms Hartnett for giving me my guts back...let's hope they stay where they are for Cole.
This is the second book I have read by this author, so I knew she had the power to rip my guts out and slowly put me back together. When I bought this book I was still on my fan-girling high from reading Genevieve Clare and didn't read the blurb or reviews. I probably should have. I spent half of this book not particularly liking the hero or to some extent the heroine. Then thing started to become clearer and I settled in for the ride.
There was a very dark undertone to this story with subjects that may be a trigger for some. The heroine grew up in an abusive home where she was frequently attacked by her Mother and her Mother's boyfriend. Some thing are discussed which made me uncomfortable, but not enough to stop me from going on. Our hero (the real one) didn't come out of his childhood unscathed either. Lots of darkness and nastiness this couple has had to face before they even met each other.
OMG!! That ending...
Thanks Ms Hartnett for giving me my guts back...let's hope they stay where they are for Cole.
February 14, 2014
J.B HARNETT IS OUR FEBRUARY PRINCESS OVER AT THE CASTLE. Come and check out her VIP room, with rafflecopter giveaway, right here: http://www.perusingprincesses.com/#!a...
BOOK REVIEW: Inky (The Leaves, #1) - J.B. Hartnett
Inky is an inspiring story of one girl's plight to leave her broken childhood behind, and one man's dream of walking out of the shadow of his unrelenting Father to prove he has what it takes to make it on his own. It's seductive and powerful with a dark vibe running throughout.
However, I wouldn't necessarily say this is a sordid story of depravity and abuse, although it certainly incorporates some of those elements, it also focuses strongly on friendship, companionship, and proves in time that with a great support network, exercising those demons can leave a world of hope and new beginnings in it's wake.
J.B Hartnett has successfully mastered the art of seat gripping angst, and you all know how I love my angst! If you are looking for a lighthearted romance, you won't find that here, so don't go in thinking 'hearts and roses', and YES it ends on a cliff-hanger, but hey... please don't let that deter you! It just makes the anticipation for book 2 all the more sweeter.
From the opening pages it's obvious that Anika 'Inky' Redding has a story to tell. She expels her hurt and her emotions through art. Her paintings speak of the inner turmoil and victimisation that she felt as a young child and only those who truly know her, know that this is her only coping mechanism.
In walks Cole, a newly-divorced successful businessman who has been searching for something his entire life - a person to connect with, one who understands the meaning of feeling trapped, restricted by the hand of another. Hiding behind the façade, Cole knows there is something about this beautiful girl behind the bar. When he helps her overcome a panic attack, she cannot help but notice this beautiful newcomer. Yet, there is only one problem, she is engaged to the most wonderful boyfriend in the world - yet, how is it he still doesn't know of her past, the significance of her back tattoo and it's true meaning behind it? Her past still remains a mystery to all those that are close to her - all those, except for her best friend.
Cole makes Inky question her life, her surroundings, and it's not long before she finds out some hard-truths. Feeling betrayed and isolated, Cole helps pick up the pieces as he becomes her rock, but it's obvious he is hiding a few demons of his own....
Emotions run high, secrets are unearthed, scars will remain, but love... love is forever.
A truly worthy 4 Stars.
BOOK REVIEW: Inky (The Leaves, #1) - J.B. Hartnett
Inky is an inspiring story of one girl's plight to leave her broken childhood behind, and one man's dream of walking out of the shadow of his unrelenting Father to prove he has what it takes to make it on his own. It's seductive and powerful with a dark vibe running throughout.
However, I wouldn't necessarily say this is a sordid story of depravity and abuse, although it certainly incorporates some of those elements, it also focuses strongly on friendship, companionship, and proves in time that with a great support network, exercising those demons can leave a world of hope and new beginnings in it's wake.
J.B Hartnett has successfully mastered the art of seat gripping angst, and you all know how I love my angst! If you are looking for a lighthearted romance, you won't find that here, so don't go in thinking 'hearts and roses', and YES it ends on a cliff-hanger, but hey... please don't let that deter you! It just makes the anticipation for book 2 all the more sweeter.
From the opening pages it's obvious that Anika 'Inky' Redding has a story to tell. She expels her hurt and her emotions through art. Her paintings speak of the inner turmoil and victimisation that she felt as a young child and only those who truly know her, know that this is her only coping mechanism.
In walks Cole, a newly-divorced successful businessman who has been searching for something his entire life - a person to connect with, one who understands the meaning of feeling trapped, restricted by the hand of another. Hiding behind the façade, Cole knows there is something about this beautiful girl behind the bar. When he helps her overcome a panic attack, she cannot help but notice this beautiful newcomer. Yet, there is only one problem, she is engaged to the most wonderful boyfriend in the world - yet, how is it he still doesn't know of her past, the significance of her back tattoo and it's true meaning behind it? Her past still remains a mystery to all those that are close to her - all those, except for her best friend.
Cole makes Inky question her life, her surroundings, and it's not long before she finds out some hard-truths. Feeling betrayed and isolated, Cole helps pick up the pieces as he becomes her rock, but it's obvious he is hiding a few demons of his own....
Emotions run high, secrets are unearthed, scars will remain, but love... love is forever.
A truly worthy 4 Stars.
January 7, 2016
It surprised me how much I liked this book. Usually these kind of books about self descovery and stuff aren´t really my thing. But I devoured this. I tend to love books that focuses more on the romance part. But the mix was absolutely perfect. And the hero, Cole. Oh my god. Can he be more perfect? The sex was really hot, but this book was more then anything, beautiful. It wasn´t like this story was told to us. It was like you were there, experiencing it all with them. When you get that caught up in a story, then you know it is good. This story also had the two most decieiful persons I´ve ever seen. I have never wanted to break someones neck that much.
“Then let’s be scared together, Anika. Let me love you the way you should be loved. We’ll take each day as it comes but we have to talk. You have to promise me that if you start to feel panicky at all, you tell me. Don’t walk away. I want to help. I mean it.” - Cole
This is the beautiful and highly touching story about Anika, aka Inky. She has the most horrible past and it still haunts her daily. Thank god she has her fianceé, Evan. But is he really what he seems? And why hasn´t Inky opened up to him about her past? And what about the sexy stranger who helped her through the panic attac? Why can´t she stop thinking about him if Evan is her future like she is convinced of? This book is NOT a stand alone, and it ends with a pretty big cliffhanger. But I wouldn´t let that stop me from reading it. I highly recommend this book and I will absolutely read the next one. This gets a strong four in rating from me. I loved it. And I loved her story behind her tattoo. Read this book! You won´t be sorry, I promise.
“Then let’s be scared together, Anika. Let me love you the way you should be loved. We’ll take each day as it comes but we have to talk. You have to promise me that if you start to feel panicky at all, you tell me. Don’t walk away. I want to help. I mean it.” - Cole
“I won’t tell him. That’s your story to tell. But Ink? You should let him in. He loves you. This is part of who you are.” .Aimes
This is the beautiful and highly touching story about Anika, aka Inky. She has the most horrible past and it still haunts her daily. Thank god she has her fianceé, Evan. But is he really what he seems? And why hasn´t Inky opened up to him about her past? And what about the sexy stranger who helped her through the panic attac? Why can´t she stop thinking about him if Evan is her future like she is convinced of? This book is NOT a stand alone, and it ends with a pretty big cliffhanger. But I wouldn´t let that stop me from reading it. I highly recommend this book and I will absolutely read the next one. This gets a strong four in rating from me. I loved it. And I loved her story behind her tattoo. Read this book! You won´t be sorry, I promise.
August 26, 2013
Jointly reviewed for : http://totallybookedblog.com/
Our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Totall...
Jenny: Once again we go into a book completely blind and once again I really enjoyed it. The title and synopsis of this book intrigued us and so we took a plunge into Inky’s world and what an intense, passionate, heartbreaking, sad and yet witty world it was.
We meet Inky (Anika) as she in the throes of love with her fiancée Evan. He’s everything she’s always wanted and Inky has been there, waiting in the wings, until Evan was ready to finish sewing his wild oats and settle down. She is in seventh heaven until the day the gorgeous Cole walks into her life and that’s where the story starts to take off. Her past comes back to haunt her at this time and I couldn’t wait to delve deeper and find out all the nitty gritty about Inky’s secrets, to uncover what lay beneath the surface.
“I won’t tell him. That’s your story to tell. But Ink? You should let him in. He loves you. This is part of who you are.” Aimes
How about you Gitte, did you enjoy this story?
Gitte: I absolutely loved this story Jenny. Classic example of finding a gem and knowing nothing about it. It was intriguing, so very heart-breaking and emotional yet funny and sweet too. I loved all the characters well except for Joe, Inky’s Mum and Cole’s Dad of course. I wanted to pull out a baseball bat on them! The story of Inky swept me away and I loved pretty much every minute of it. Should really mention the cliffy though…..it’s a tough one!!!!
“I’m sweet which can also give the impression that I’m weak. I’m not. I’m sweetness with a potty mouth and an attitude.” <?i>– Inky
Jenny: Well, book two is out in a few weeks so we don’t have to wait too long thank goodness! This story was so much more than a story of healing and finding love, finding that soul mate, finding that person who makes you whole. I also loved the friendship side of this story between Inky and Aimes. These two BFF’s were a crack up. I found myself laughing along with them and I loved how Inky had someone like Aimes in her corner, someone who never judged her, who never pitied her and who always encouraged her.
“Feel whatever you need to feel and get it the fuck out of you. It’s all poison my friend.” - Aimes
Aimes shared Inky’s pain and was fiercely protective of her. Aimes was Inky’s rock, her voice of reason and her light relief when life got her down. I loved the pragmatic, witty Aimes, in fact I loved them both and I loved their friendship.
“Well, ain’t that a pickle?” -Aimes
“How am I supposed to respond to that?” <?i> – Inky
The electricity between Cole and Inky is intense and you feel the palpable chemistry from that first meeting. As we peel back the layers and discover the horrific past Inky has endured, as we learn the significance of her unique tattoo and the stories behind her art, your heart really does break for Inky, but this girl, despite her hurt and sadness does not let life get her down.
“Everyone asked why I was called Inky or Ink instead of Anika. The meaning behind it though was a different story.” <?i>
No siree, she picks herself up, she deals and she attempts to move on as best she can. I found Inky such a refreshing character and loved how she always seemed to find humour in even the direst of situations. This girl was hiding so much pain behind her carefully constructed façade. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: I loved Inky, she was strong and passionate. After everything she has been through she really is a survivor and at no stage did she annoy me. She is real, a great friend and has a fab sense of humour.
“You’re just, you’re just so, matter of fact about it. It’s like you’re talking about something that happened to someone else.” – Aimes
She dealt so well with her past which comes back to haunt her in a really dramatic and emotional way. I loved the meaning behind her tattoo…a talisman of her pain and her being hurt and degraded. The way this Author described her art and the moments of pain and heart ache was truly beautiful in its ugliness.
“I’d always been guarded emotionally, knowing I was the only person I could depend on.” – Inky
As for her friendship with Aimes, well I just loved these two together. A true friendship that can never be tested by others. They are there for each other in every way and I laughed and cried with them. Aimes really was the light to Inky’s dark. And on that note….Cole.
Cole was a mystery that I loved to unravel. He was lush! He has his own demons just like Inky, but together, they just worked.
“And plain as day, I saw it; such a terrible loneliness. Maybe he was just as fucked up as I was. What a team.” – Inky
Their chemistry was definitely tangible and they each gave the other what they needed. They were soul mates, no doubt about it. So much drama and pain, so much hurt, yet ultimately amongst the laughter and passion came the healing. I really did love their story!
“I want you to trust me. I want to be your destination, not your distraction.” – Cole
My only complaint is the pet peeve I have. It wouldn’t be fair not to mention it in this review, as I do in all other reviews when this issue crops up. I wish Authors would leave 50 Shades references out of their books. Or any other book characters for that matter now we’re on this topic. This is your book; your characters. I want to enjoy your book without being reminded of others, it takes me out the moment and away from your story. I wish that scene hadn’t been in there, it was unnecessary and it annoyed me sadly.
Overall though I thought the writing was fab, the characters all played a part and I cried, laughed and swooned with them. Now, I can’t wait for the sequel because wow, as I said, what a cliff-hanger!!!
“Then let’s be scared together, Anika. Let me love you the way you should be loved. We’ll take each day as it comes but we have to talk. You have to promise me that if you start to feel panicky at all, you tell me. Don’t walk away. I want to help. I mean it.” - Cole
Jenny: I completely agree Gitte. It really is a pet peeve of ours and it was unnecessary, the story didn't need it. But it was a tiny blimp and we were soon back on track. Whilst I was swept away with the passion and romance in this story, I certainly also experienced the pain on both sides with Cole carrying his own demons. Inky and Cole are both such tortured souls, each dealing in their own way but in each other they might have just found an adversary who may be the key to unlocking that pain, and putting it behind them. Can these two damaged people find a way to heal each other and themselves?
“I want to be with you, even with all the fucked up stuff, because I’m equally fucked. I assure you.” – Cole
I really enjoyed this story and I just adored Inky, Cole and the secondary characters. Each added humour and love to this story and each was a breath of fresh air when the sadness of Inky’s story overwhelmed you. Aimee, Gus, Trish, Anthony and who can forget Abe. I adored him!!
“Abe, I kind of want to kiss you right now, tongue and all.” Inky
“Ah, well, I’m flattered but you know that’s not how I roll.” Abe
This was a story of friendship, love, soul mates, hurt, pain, healing and finding that one person who knows you, the real you. It’s about letting go of your past and treasuring your future and it’s all handled with equal doses of emotion and humour.
“Oh I’m sorry I woke you. It’s kind of like waking up next to Chris Isaak. You really don’t want to waste a single minute of the experience.” - Inky
We’re glad we found Inky and we certainly enjoyed every minute of that experience and recommend adding this one to your TBR’s. . It does end on a cliffy but Cole, Book Two is due for release on 21st September and we are DYING o get stuck into that one!!
Our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Totall...
Jenny: Once again we go into a book completely blind and once again I really enjoyed it. The title and synopsis of this book intrigued us and so we took a plunge into Inky’s world and what an intense, passionate, heartbreaking, sad and yet witty world it was.
We meet Inky (Anika) as she in the throes of love with her fiancée Evan. He’s everything she’s always wanted and Inky has been there, waiting in the wings, until Evan was ready to finish sewing his wild oats and settle down. She is in seventh heaven until the day the gorgeous Cole walks into her life and that’s where the story starts to take off. Her past comes back to haunt her at this time and I couldn’t wait to delve deeper and find out all the nitty gritty about Inky’s secrets, to uncover what lay beneath the surface.
“I won’t tell him. That’s your story to tell. But Ink? You should let him in. He loves you. This is part of who you are.” Aimes
How about you Gitte, did you enjoy this story?
Gitte: I absolutely loved this story Jenny. Classic example of finding a gem and knowing nothing about it. It was intriguing, so very heart-breaking and emotional yet funny and sweet too. I loved all the characters well except for Joe, Inky’s Mum and Cole’s Dad of course. I wanted to pull out a baseball bat on them! The story of Inky swept me away and I loved pretty much every minute of it. Should really mention the cliffy though…..it’s a tough one!!!!
“I’m sweet which can also give the impression that I’m weak. I’m not. I’m sweetness with a potty mouth and an attitude.” <?i>– Inky
Jenny: Well, book two is out in a few weeks so we don’t have to wait too long thank goodness! This story was so much more than a story of healing and finding love, finding that soul mate, finding that person who makes you whole. I also loved the friendship side of this story between Inky and Aimes. These two BFF’s were a crack up. I found myself laughing along with them and I loved how Inky had someone like Aimes in her corner, someone who never judged her, who never pitied her and who always encouraged her.
“Feel whatever you need to feel and get it the fuck out of you. It’s all poison my friend.” - Aimes
Aimes shared Inky’s pain and was fiercely protective of her. Aimes was Inky’s rock, her voice of reason and her light relief when life got her down. I loved the pragmatic, witty Aimes, in fact I loved them both and I loved their friendship.
“Well, ain’t that a pickle?” -Aimes
“How am I supposed to respond to that?” <?i> – Inky
The electricity between Cole and Inky is intense and you feel the palpable chemistry from that first meeting. As we peel back the layers and discover the horrific past Inky has endured, as we learn the significance of her unique tattoo and the stories behind her art, your heart really does break for Inky, but this girl, despite her hurt and sadness does not let life get her down.
“Everyone asked why I was called Inky or Ink instead of Anika. The meaning behind it though was a different story.” <?i>
No siree, she picks herself up, she deals and she attempts to move on as best she can. I found Inky such a refreshing character and loved how she always seemed to find humour in even the direst of situations. This girl was hiding so much pain behind her carefully constructed façade. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: I loved Inky, she was strong and passionate. After everything she has been through she really is a survivor and at no stage did she annoy me. She is real, a great friend and has a fab sense of humour.
“You’re just, you’re just so, matter of fact about it. It’s like you’re talking about something that happened to someone else.” – Aimes
She dealt so well with her past which comes back to haunt her in a really dramatic and emotional way. I loved the meaning behind her tattoo…a talisman of her pain and her being hurt and degraded. The way this Author described her art and the moments of pain and heart ache was truly beautiful in its ugliness.
“I’d always been guarded emotionally, knowing I was the only person I could depend on.” – Inky
As for her friendship with Aimes, well I just loved these two together. A true friendship that can never be tested by others. They are there for each other in every way and I laughed and cried with them. Aimes really was the light to Inky’s dark. And on that note….Cole.
Cole was a mystery that I loved to unravel. He was lush! He has his own demons just like Inky, but together, they just worked.
“And plain as day, I saw it; such a terrible loneliness. Maybe he was just as fucked up as I was. What a team.” – Inky
Their chemistry was definitely tangible and they each gave the other what they needed. They were soul mates, no doubt about it. So much drama and pain, so much hurt, yet ultimately amongst the laughter and passion came the healing. I really did love their story!
“I want you to trust me. I want to be your destination, not your distraction.” – Cole
My only complaint is the pet peeve I have. It wouldn’t be fair not to mention it in this review, as I do in all other reviews when this issue crops up. I wish Authors would leave 50 Shades references out of their books. Or any other book characters for that matter now we’re on this topic. This is your book; your characters. I want to enjoy your book without being reminded of others, it takes me out the moment and away from your story. I wish that scene hadn’t been in there, it was unnecessary and it annoyed me sadly.
Overall though I thought the writing was fab, the characters all played a part and I cried, laughed and swooned with them. Now, I can’t wait for the sequel because wow, as I said, what a cliff-hanger!!!
“Then let’s be scared together, Anika. Let me love you the way you should be loved. We’ll take each day as it comes but we have to talk. You have to promise me that if you start to feel panicky at all, you tell me. Don’t walk away. I want to help. I mean it.” - Cole
Jenny: I completely agree Gitte. It really is a pet peeve of ours and it was unnecessary, the story didn't need it. But it was a tiny blimp and we were soon back on track. Whilst I was swept away with the passion and romance in this story, I certainly also experienced the pain on both sides with Cole carrying his own demons. Inky and Cole are both such tortured souls, each dealing in their own way but in each other they might have just found an adversary who may be the key to unlocking that pain, and putting it behind them. Can these two damaged people find a way to heal each other and themselves?
“I want to be with you, even with all the fucked up stuff, because I’m equally fucked. I assure you.” – Cole
I really enjoyed this story and I just adored Inky, Cole and the secondary characters. Each added humour and love to this story and each was a breath of fresh air when the sadness of Inky’s story overwhelmed you. Aimee, Gus, Trish, Anthony and who can forget Abe. I adored him!!
“Abe, I kind of want to kiss you right now, tongue and all.” Inky
“Ah, well, I’m flattered but you know that’s not how I roll.” Abe
This was a story of friendship, love, soul mates, hurt, pain, healing and finding that one person who knows you, the real you. It’s about letting go of your past and treasuring your future and it’s all handled with equal doses of emotion and humour.
“Oh I’m sorry I woke you. It’s kind of like waking up next to Chris Isaak. You really don’t want to waste a single minute of the experience.” - Inky
We’re glad we found Inky and we certainly enjoyed every minute of that experience and recommend adding this one to your TBR’s. . It does end on a cliffy but Cole, Book Two is due for release on 21st September and we are DYING o get stuck into that one!!
September 16, 2013
Hmm....
3.5 Stars...I think!
I think I liked this one. I definitely liked the first half of the book...but something changed for me towards the end. It felt like a different book....the vibe was different, the characters felt different--their personalities, etc. I am not sure how I feel about that part of the book.
The story begins with the introduction of Inky. Inky is an artist by day and works evenings at a bar. She lives with her BFFs, Lisa and Aimes. She's "engaged" to Evan--though no rings have been exchanged. That haven't been together long, only recently "committing" themselves to each other. We learn that for several years Evan and Inky were more or less "flings" for each other. When it was convenient they would hook up regardless of their respective relationship status at the time.
Needless to say, Inky has been through some serious shit in her past. She never opened up to Evan and keeps it mostly hidden. As a result of her past she experiences panic attacks. Certain things trigger her panic attacks, singing in public being one of them. One night while she's working at the bar, Inky has a panic attack. She's comforted by bar patron Cole.
Cole is a recently divorced hotelier. He and Inky share this weird connection. But Inky loves Evan and yada, yada, yada.
From the beginning I could tell that something just wasn't right with Evan. And low and behold he turns out to be a real asshat!
Inky and Cole continue to run in to each other. Cole persues Inky pretty relentlessly. He purchases her art, shows up at the bar, etc. But Inky never crosses the line with him.
The night of the art gallery exhibit....
Aimes....that was totally kick ass!
Lisa....
Inky gets revenge though in the sweetest way possible.
....And now this is where things turned weird for me. Cole "rescues" Lisa after her show of revenge and takes her back to his place. It was pretty much insta-love at this point. Cole and Inky turn in to this mushy-lovey-dovey couple that just seemed so far removed from their previous interactions and personalities.
They go from running in to each other a few times....knowing that have some sort of connection, to practically married and living together. It just seemed like too much too soon. IDK...it just threw me off I guess. It was pretty over-the-top almost bordering on cheesy. At this point, we are nearing the end of the book. Cole and Inky open up about their pasts and pretty much commit to each other.
I knew going in to this book that it had a HUGE cliffhanger ending so I guess I wasn't as shocked when the ending rolled around. I knew Inky's . I also knew something was up when Cole which also not indicitive to his previous behavior.
So...with that being said, I think I will read the sequel--Cole. Truth be told, I really like Cole....and I do like the overall story. Cole is told from Cole's POV, just as Inky was told from Inky's POV. Hopefully it won't be too sappy and over the top.
3.5 Stars...I think!
I think I liked this one. I definitely liked the first half of the book...but something changed for me towards the end. It felt like a different book....the vibe was different, the characters felt different--their personalities, etc. I am not sure how I feel about that part of the book.
The story begins with the introduction of Inky. Inky is an artist by day and works evenings at a bar. She lives with her BFFs, Lisa and Aimes. She's "engaged" to Evan--though no rings have been exchanged. That haven't been together long, only recently "committing" themselves to each other. We learn that for several years Evan and Inky were more or less "flings" for each other. When it was convenient they would hook up regardless of their respective relationship status at the time.
Needless to say, Inky has been through some serious shit in her past. She never opened up to Evan and keeps it mostly hidden. As a result of her past she experiences panic attacks. Certain things trigger her panic attacks, singing in public being one of them. One night while she's working at the bar, Inky has a panic attack. She's comforted by bar patron Cole.
Cole is a recently divorced hotelier. He and Inky share this weird connection. But Inky loves Evan and yada, yada, yada.
From the beginning I could tell that something just wasn't right with Evan. And low and behold he turns out to be a real asshat!
Inky and Cole continue to run in to each other. Cole persues Inky pretty relentlessly. He purchases her art, shows up at the bar, etc. But Inky never crosses the line with him.
The night of the art gallery exhibit....
Aimes....that was totally kick ass!
Lisa....
Inky gets revenge though in the sweetest way possible.
....And now this is where things turned weird for me. Cole "rescues" Lisa after her show of revenge and takes her back to his place. It was pretty much insta-love at this point. Cole and Inky turn in to this mushy-lovey-dovey couple that just seemed so far removed from their previous interactions and personalities.
They go from running in to each other a few times....knowing that have some sort of connection, to practically married and living together. It just seemed like too much too soon. IDK...it just threw me off I guess. It was pretty over-the-top almost bordering on cheesy. At this point, we are nearing the end of the book. Cole and Inky open up about their pasts and pretty much commit to each other.
I knew going in to this book that it had a HUGE cliffhanger ending so I guess I wasn't as shocked when the ending rolled around. I knew Inky's . I also knew something was up when Cole which also not indicitive to his previous behavior.
So...with that being said, I think I will read the sequel--Cole. Truth be told, I really like Cole....and I do like the overall story. Cole is told from Cole's POV, just as Inky was told from Inky's POV. Hopefully it won't be too sappy and over the top.
freebie
March 8, 2015FREEBIE - http://amzn.to/1A25wkb
November 21, 2014
This started out good and I was super excited, because it seemed really promising, I was liking the story, the pace, the angst, the characters but then the second half Ugh! the insta-love. Why? Why? Not even insta-lust, but insta-love in a very sappy way.
The story is centered around Anika (Inky) a struggling artist who works as a bantender. She's had an abusive childhood. It was really terrible what she went through and is coping with ocassional anxiety as a result. She shares an apartment with her two bff, Aimes, and Lisa, and is engaged to Evan a musician. One day at the bar, she meets Cole, a recent divorcee and shares a connection with him while he helps her during one of her anxiety attacks. After Inky gets a visit from her past and suffers some betrayal she reconnets with Cole.
This book for a good chunk was a solid 4 stars for me, but the last 30-20% brought down my rating. Inky and Cole got too serious too fast. I would have preferred if they would have professed they're in love in book 2 perhaphs. But it really got too sappy and kind of cheesy at times. I sort of got their special connection they shared and I would have been fine with that alone until book 2. But nope,
This book ends on a cliffhanger, but the second book is already out. I'm still not sure if I'm reading the sequel.
August 15, 2013
*For Mature Audiences*
18+ Readers!
Aaaaaargh! I can not tell you how loud I screamed at the end of this book! I won't tell you why...that you will have to read for yourself to find out. What I can tell you is I could NOT put this book down! I must also tell you that I do not care much for violence & abuse in my reading choices...BUT when done tastefully (& this was definitely done tastefully) I can overlook it. Especially when it adds so much to the story rather than hindering it.
This story is seriously Addicting!!! A must read full of emotion, mystery, action, fear, terror, comedy, romance, & plenty of Smexy as well! Truly a nonstop roller coaster you don't want to miss!
I absolutely adore Inky! She is a true diamond in the rough, an extremely strong heart who chooses to surpass her past & offenders in the amazing way she does! Her BFF Aimes is fabulous, & I am glad to have a few Aimes' in my life. Abe has to be a favorite of mine! Gus is adorable & I respect him immensely. Trish is ... well ... Awesome! Anthony is terrific. But Cole...now he is absolutely dreamy! Perfection really!
Be forewarned this ending is going to have you jumping out of your seat screaming as you attempt to flip the page ... only to find that's it ... there is no more! And now we wait for the sequel that I wish I had in hand right now. *sigh* I KNOW IT WILL BE WORTH THE WAIT THOUGH! :)
18+ Readers!
Aaaaaargh! I can not tell you how loud I screamed at the end of this book! I won't tell you why...that you will have to read for yourself to find out. What I can tell you is I could NOT put this book down! I must also tell you that I do not care much for violence & abuse in my reading choices...BUT when done tastefully (& this was definitely done tastefully) I can overlook it. Especially when it adds so much to the story rather than hindering it.
This story is seriously Addicting!!! A must read full of emotion, mystery, action, fear, terror, comedy, romance, & plenty of Smexy as well! Truly a nonstop roller coaster you don't want to miss!
I absolutely adore Inky! She is a true diamond in the rough, an extremely strong heart who chooses to surpass her past & offenders in the amazing way she does! Her BFF Aimes is fabulous, & I am glad to have a few Aimes' in my life. Abe has to be a favorite of mine! Gus is adorable & I respect him immensely. Trish is ... well ... Awesome! Anthony is terrific. But Cole...now he is absolutely dreamy! Perfection really!
Be forewarned this ending is going to have you jumping out of your seat screaming as you attempt to flip the page ... only to find that's it ... there is no more! And now we wait for the sequel that I wish I had in hand right now. *sigh* I KNOW IT WILL BE WORTH THE WAIT THOUGH! :)
March 31, 2014
Inky Will TATTOO Your Heart
"I heard the door but played the "I'm sexy and sleeping and waiting for you to gaze at my beauty" game. You always see that in romantic comedies and I always imagined how lovely it would be to wake up and have your lover staring at you with nothing but adoration in his eyes."- Inky
"You think I'm like every other guy you've encountered. I'm not. I'm falling in love with Anika Redding. You think I'd let you go that easily?"- Cole
First of all can we talk about the cover for a minute?! NOW I understand that it is a perfect illustration of the author's "vision". However, when I first saw it, I though WOW what a beautiful and amazingly unique cover! I immediately sent J.B. Hartnett a message telling her I obsessed with it must read her book. Thank goodness she didn't think I was some crazy stalker - well - maybe she did but she didn't say so. ;-) You have this beautiful girl with a very unique tattoo on her back of a tree, standing in a gilded frame looking upon gorgeous sunset with water lapping at her feet. Yet there is a dark gray stormy sky and angry waters overshadowing the picture in that gilded frame. I thought hmmmm - what's that about?
So - I'm smiling as I'm reading this book thinking awww how cute is her name. Awww how sweet is her BFF. Awww how cute they love working together at the local hang out with their way cool boss. Awww she's engaged to Evan who she has loved, played booty call for and waited for while he worked his way through the local female population. Everything is going fabulous right? Until one day a disillusioned but gorgeous business comes into the bar. The sad businessman, well, his name is Cole. Inky may be in love with Evan but Cole has made an impression and is now lingering on her mind whether she wants to admit it or not. Inky is haunted by her past and particularly the "ghost" of her mother. A woman who should never have had children. Inky's past comes to haunt her and Cole is there to help.
Unfortunately, despite Inky's efforts to bury her past it comes to pay her a visit - literally. WHAM! The smile got wiped off my face quick fast in a hurry when we find out why Anika became Inky. We also find out the significance of the oak tree tattoo that takes up her upper back and shoulder area. That was when the ugly cry started. Totally did not see it coming people. There I was crying on a city bus but I was too invested at that point to care.
Evan feels he and Inky have the real thing going on but Cole is not going away. I think Inky (with her Mommy issues) and Cole (Daddy issues) souls recognized each other and that is why they are drawn together initially.
Inky has all the makings of a great read, even a really good movie, namely: mystery, romance, angst - lots of angst, revenge, dirty little secrets, hot sex, dialogue that stirs the heart and inspires strong emotions. Inky is not your lightweight fluffy cupcake. Instead you get sink your teeth into real storytelling that will draw you in and keep you there until the very last page. Oh! One more thing, it ends on a little cliffhanger but please don't let that stop you. I have it on good authority that J.B. finished the sequel tonight so it shouldn't be much longer for it to be in our greedy little hands.
If you must walk away from your Kindle (as I do on occasion) to prevent you from flinging it across the room, then please do so. DO NOT hurt the innocent Kindle. Of course, I want the sequel like yesterday. It was a 4.5 star read for me. I mean, come one, did you expect ME to say anything different. LOL.
"I heard the door but played the "I'm sexy and sleeping and waiting for you to gaze at my beauty" game. You always see that in romantic comedies and I always imagined how lovely it would be to wake up and have your lover staring at you with nothing but adoration in his eyes."- Inky
"You think I'm like every other guy you've encountered. I'm not. I'm falling in love with Anika Redding. You think I'd let you go that easily?"- Cole
First of all can we talk about the cover for a minute?! NOW I understand that it is a perfect illustration of the author's "vision". However, when I first saw it, I though WOW what a beautiful and amazingly unique cover! I immediately sent J.B. Hartnett a message telling her I obsessed with it must read her book. Thank goodness she didn't think I was some crazy stalker - well - maybe she did but she didn't say so. ;-) You have this beautiful girl with a very unique tattoo on her back of a tree, standing in a gilded frame looking upon gorgeous sunset with water lapping at her feet. Yet there is a dark gray stormy sky and angry waters overshadowing the picture in that gilded frame. I thought hmmmm - what's that about?
So - I'm smiling as I'm reading this book thinking awww how cute is her name. Awww how sweet is her BFF. Awww how cute they love working together at the local hang out with their way cool boss. Awww she's engaged to Evan who she has loved, played booty call for and waited for while he worked his way through the local female population. Everything is going fabulous right? Until one day a disillusioned but gorgeous business comes into the bar. The sad businessman, well, his name is Cole. Inky may be in love with Evan but Cole has made an impression and is now lingering on her mind whether she wants to admit it or not. Inky is haunted by her past and particularly the "ghost" of her mother. A woman who should never have had children. Inky's past comes to haunt her and Cole is there to help.
Unfortunately, despite Inky's efforts to bury her past it comes to pay her a visit - literally. WHAM! The smile got wiped off my face quick fast in a hurry when we find out why Anika became Inky. We also find out the significance of the oak tree tattoo that takes up her upper back and shoulder area. That was when the ugly cry started. Totally did not see it coming people. There I was crying on a city bus but I was too invested at that point to care.
Evan feels he and Inky have the real thing going on but Cole is not going away. I think Inky (with her Mommy issues) and Cole (Daddy issues) souls recognized each other and that is why they are drawn together initially.
Inky has all the makings of a great read, even a really good movie, namely: mystery, romance, angst - lots of angst, revenge, dirty little secrets, hot sex, dialogue that stirs the heart and inspires strong emotions. Inky is not your lightweight fluffy cupcake. Instead you get sink your teeth into real storytelling that will draw you in and keep you there until the very last page. Oh! One more thing, it ends on a little cliffhanger but please don't let that stop you. I have it on good authority that J.B. finished the sequel tonight so it shouldn't be much longer for it to be in our greedy little hands.
If you must walk away from your Kindle (as I do on occasion) to prevent you from flinging it across the room, then please do so. DO NOT hurt the innocent Kindle. Of course, I want the sequel like yesterday. It was a 4.5 star read for me. I mean, come one, did you expect ME to say anything different. LOL.
August 21, 2013
4 Stars!
Ok. So I'm writing this review after only getting an hour sleep last night. I was up until 1 reading Inky and it had me so worked up, I read a whole OTHER book after it just to try and calm down! Yes, my reaction at the end was SERIOUSLY?! WTF?!
Inky starts out following Inky, who's real name is Anika, as she thinks she is finally forward from a very rough upbringing. She has the fiance that she's pined over for years, 2 amazing friends, and is living her dream as a struggling artist while bartending.
While bartending one evening a man, that learns later is named Cole, comes in and there's an instant attraction. After a brief encounter, she shrugs it off trying not to think of him again. When Cole comes to the bar again, only to witness Inky having an anxiety attack, he finds a way to calm her that sticks with her.
Inky's past suddenly comes roaring to a head with a visit from an unwelcomed visitor and all of her insecurities and fears resurface. As she struggles to get past all of her demons things with her fiance change and Cole enters her life in an unexpected way.
Does Inky finally give into her insta-attraction with Cole? Does she get over her past? Do past demons make it impossible for her to love and be loved?
This story started out a little slow for me but when it picked up-I fell in love. I loved Inky and her BFF Aimes. They have that friendship that every girl should have. Inky knows that Aimes has her back no matter what-and she does it without judgement only support, whether it's tough love or a shoulder to cry on.
What I loved about this story was the emotions! You could honestly feel the pain that the main characters felt. Whether it was happy, scared, anger, love, or hope-you could feel it pouring off of the pages (or in this case my Kindle). There were many parts I wanted to smack some of the characters for making me angry!
My big WTF moment happened at the end..what should be a Happily Ever After turned in to a DID THAT SERIOUSLY JUST EFFING HAPPEN AT 100%?! So, now I'm sitting here pissed off, at myself, for reading another book with another damn cliff hanger that I'm going to be thinking about until book two in this series comes.
So whether you need to wait until the full series is out or you're a glutten for punishment like me and read books as they come out instead of the whole series at once-read this!
*Review by Lauren
Ok. So I'm writing this review after only getting an hour sleep last night. I was up until 1 reading Inky and it had me so worked up, I read a whole OTHER book after it just to try and calm down! Yes, my reaction at the end was SERIOUSLY?! WTF?!
Inky starts out following Inky, who's real name is Anika, as she thinks she is finally forward from a very rough upbringing. She has the fiance that she's pined over for years, 2 amazing friends, and is living her dream as a struggling artist while bartending.
While bartending one evening a man, that learns later is named Cole, comes in and there's an instant attraction. After a brief encounter, she shrugs it off trying not to think of him again. When Cole comes to the bar again, only to witness Inky having an anxiety attack, he finds a way to calm her that sticks with her.
Inky's past suddenly comes roaring to a head with a visit from an unwelcomed visitor and all of her insecurities and fears resurface. As she struggles to get past all of her demons things with her fiance change and Cole enters her life in an unexpected way.
Does Inky finally give into her insta-attraction with Cole? Does she get over her past? Do past demons make it impossible for her to love and be loved?
This story started out a little slow for me but when it picked up-I fell in love. I loved Inky and her BFF Aimes. They have that friendship that every girl should have. Inky knows that Aimes has her back no matter what-and she does it without judgement only support, whether it's tough love or a shoulder to cry on.
What I loved about this story was the emotions! You could honestly feel the pain that the main characters felt. Whether it was happy, scared, anger, love, or hope-you could feel it pouring off of the pages (or in this case my Kindle). There were many parts I wanted to smack some of the characters for making me angry!
My big WTF moment happened at the end..what should be a Happily Ever After turned in to a DID THAT SERIOUSLY JUST EFFING HAPPEN AT 100%?! So, now I'm sitting here pissed off, at myself, for reading another book with another damn cliff hanger that I'm going to be thinking about until book two in this series comes.
So whether you need to wait until the full series is out or you're a glutten for punishment like me and read books as they come out instead of the whole series at once-read this!
*Review by Lauren
August 21, 2013
4.5 stars
***I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
It was the cover that attracted me to this book, I think before I had even read the synopsis I knew I needed to read this book. I absolutely love this cover, and after reading Inky, I have to say it fits perfectly it’s truly is beautiful.
From the very beginning, you know that Anika ‘Inky’ Redding has a story to tell, and very soon you discover what happen to her during her childhood. Inky is an artist, and she uses painting to express her feelings, her turmoil and a way to forget. I loved Inky she made me cry she made me smile, and with all that had happened to her in her past she truly was a strong person with a great heart, I couldn’t help but admired her.
“ I’m not going to be one of those f***ing victims going to support groups and all that s***. I’m not going to have some pity party and let everyone look at me with the same sad eyes.~ Inky
When Inky meets Cole Carlyle (swoon) the sexy stranger who walks into her bar, to drown his sorrows. Cole has his own past, and demons of his own. Inky is drawn to him, as is he to her, there is an emotional connection an attraction between them, which they can’t fully explain. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as the story progress, I loved the way they open up, and how honest they were to each other.
“Because there is something there, Aimes There was a connection between us. I knew he would understand me… I didn’t have to explain anything, he just knew. It” ~ Inky
“I think you and I have an inexplicable connection. I know it you feel it” ~ Cole
Okay so here is the thing I can’t tell you a lot about the plot in this book as I think it would give away too much away. It does include a serious subject matter; the storyline was both heartbreaking and heart warming at the same time. It was funny, romantic; had a few high five moments, betrayal, mystery, angst and, plenty of sexy smut. Everything that I love in a book ☺
“Do you have a red room of pain in this place” ~ Inky
"You think I'm like every other guy you've encountered. I'm not. I'm falling in love with Anika Redding. You think I'd let you go that easily?"- Cole
It wasn’t an easy read at times especially reading the reason behind Inky’s name and the significance of the tattoo on her back. Some of the things that happened, and did happen to Inky were awful and upsetting. My heart when out to Cole when I read about his past. So I would suggest that you have some tissues close by.
There were so many excellent supporting characters’ in this book I could talk about them forever. My favorite was Inky’s best friend Aimes was amazing, one of the few people who know what happened to her. I loved her for the way she supports Inky and always has her back; everybody needs a best friend like her. Then there was Gus who was so sweet, Abe, Trish and Anthony I really loved them for what they do for Inky. There were a few other characters that I’m not going to mention, the made my blood boil and that I wanted to do physical harm to.
I will warn you that there is a cliffhanger, at around 90% I did start to get very anxious, knowing that there was no epilogue, I had a feeling that something was going to happen and as I tap my Kindle to read the next page, I was quietly repeating to myself “end now please end now’ at 100% the very last page, I was still tapping my Kindle but shouting “no there has be more pages you can’t end here”. What an ending it was, and one that I didn’t see coming.
I was really impressed with J. B. Hartnett’s debut novel, I love her writing style, her characters were such that I became emotionally attached to them from the start, and I found it very hard to put this book down. Don’t let the cliffhanger put you off I would advise you to 1-click this book now, it will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions that you don’t want to miss. I was pleased (maybe a slight understatement) to find that the next book in the series ‘Cole’ will be due out next month, and I can’t wait to read it.
Some more quotes (I had 16 kindle pages of quotes ☺)
I looked at him, really looked at him and saw his beauty and his pain. Such a sensitive soul. ~ Inky
“I need you. It scares the f*** out of me but I have never felt this in my entire life. I need to be near you, to hear your voice and to see your face” ~ Cole
“Somehow, I had found someone who I knew without a doubt, I could be myself with and the best part was, he felt the same way. We were more alike that I ever imagined” ~ Inky
“Beautiful. Perfect. Talented. Loved. Mine. Forever” ~ Cole
***I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
It was the cover that attracted me to this book, I think before I had even read the synopsis I knew I needed to read this book. I absolutely love this cover, and after reading Inky, I have to say it fits perfectly it’s truly is beautiful.
From the very beginning, you know that Anika ‘Inky’ Redding has a story to tell, and very soon you discover what happen to her during her childhood. Inky is an artist, and she uses painting to express her feelings, her turmoil and a way to forget. I loved Inky she made me cry she made me smile, and with all that had happened to her in her past she truly was a strong person with a great heart, I couldn’t help but admired her.
“ I’m not going to be one of those f***ing victims going to support groups and all that s***. I’m not going to have some pity party and let everyone look at me with the same sad eyes.~ Inky
When Inky meets Cole Carlyle (swoon) the sexy stranger who walks into her bar, to drown his sorrows. Cole has his own past, and demons of his own. Inky is drawn to him, as is he to her, there is an emotional connection an attraction between them, which they can’t fully explain. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as the story progress, I loved the way they open up, and how honest they were to each other.
“Because there is something there, Aimes There was a connection between us. I knew he would understand me… I didn’t have to explain anything, he just knew. It” ~ Inky
“I think you and I have an inexplicable connection. I know it you feel it” ~ Cole
Okay so here is the thing I can’t tell you a lot about the plot in this book as I think it would give away too much away. It does include a serious subject matter; the storyline was both heartbreaking and heart warming at the same time. It was funny, romantic; had a few high five moments, betrayal, mystery, angst and, plenty of sexy smut. Everything that I love in a book ☺
“Do you have a red room of pain in this place” ~ Inky
"You think I'm like every other guy you've encountered. I'm not. I'm falling in love with Anika Redding. You think I'd let you go that easily?"- Cole
It wasn’t an easy read at times especially reading the reason behind Inky’s name and the significance of the tattoo on her back. Some of the things that happened, and did happen to Inky were awful and upsetting. My heart when out to Cole when I read about his past. So I would suggest that you have some tissues close by.
There were so many excellent supporting characters’ in this book I could talk about them forever. My favorite was Inky’s best friend Aimes was amazing, one of the few people who know what happened to her. I loved her for the way she supports Inky and always has her back; everybody needs a best friend like her. Then there was Gus who was so sweet, Abe, Trish and Anthony I really loved them for what they do for Inky. There were a few other characters that I’m not going to mention, the made my blood boil and that I wanted to do physical harm to.
I will warn you that there is a cliffhanger, at around 90% I did start to get very anxious, knowing that there was no epilogue, I had a feeling that something was going to happen and as I tap my Kindle to read the next page, I was quietly repeating to myself “end now please end now’ at 100% the very last page, I was still tapping my Kindle but shouting “no there has be more pages you can’t end here”. What an ending it was, and one that I didn’t see coming.
I was really impressed with J. B. Hartnett’s debut novel, I love her writing style, her characters were such that I became emotionally attached to them from the start, and I found it very hard to put this book down. Don’t let the cliffhanger put you off I would advise you to 1-click this book now, it will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions that you don’t want to miss. I was pleased (maybe a slight understatement) to find that the next book in the series ‘Cole’ will be due out next month, and I can’t wait to read it.
Some more quotes (I had 16 kindle pages of quotes ☺)
I looked at him, really looked at him and saw his beauty and his pain. Such a sensitive soul. ~ Inky
“I need you. It scares the f*** out of me but I have never felt this in my entire life. I need to be near you, to hear your voice and to see your face” ~ Cole
“Somehow, I had found someone who I knew without a doubt, I could be myself with and the best part was, he felt the same way. We were more alike that I ever imagined” ~ Inky
“Beautiful. Perfect. Talented. Loved. Mine. Forever” ~ Cole
April 7, 2014
Emotional, deep and panty melting. Anika and Cole’s chemistry was off the charts! AMAZING READ!
Every time I stumble upon a great book by accident, I throw a silent prayer to the book gods! Especially when said book is just 99 cents and a gem. This book is no exception, superbly written, emotional and raw; I loved every single page and yes J.B. Hartnett you have a new fan!
Anika (Inky), a young woman, scared by her past, yet making a life for herself. She works at a bar but her true calling is art. She paints going through a unique process that makes her channel her feelings and darkest secrets. She is finally happy with her fiancé, a man she waited for years to decide having a real relationship with her. Anika has a beautiful tattoo of a tree on her back but, that is another story; the meaning behind it is just sad and beautiful at the same time.
Enter Cole, an intriguing sexy man who ends up at the bar on night. The connection and the pull both him and Inky feel on their first meeting is overwhelming; especially when he is able to pull Inky out from a panic attack; he sings to her, he soothes her and that becomes a pivotal moment in her life…. She just doesn’t know it.
Let’s just say that life happens: an art gallery, a painting is sold, lovers and friends show their true colors and the past pays a visit. Cole and Inky meet again and don’t deny their feelings. Their relationship becomes soul bonding, intense and utterly beautiful; they understand and heal each other in many ways; Cole becomes her rock and he starts to find himself again thanks to her. I just couldn’t put the book down.
J.B. Harnett does an amazing job showing us a backstory of abuse, neglect and utter misery; at the same time she shows how being relentless and strong and determined leads to finding fulfillment and happiness.
I really recommend this book, it’s an amazing journey but, be warned, you need to have book two “Cole” ready in your reader because the cliffhanger ending is …. Just ….a hair pulling, nail biting experience!!!
Every time I stumble upon a great book by accident, I throw a silent prayer to the book gods! Especially when said book is just 99 cents and a gem. This book is no exception, superbly written, emotional and raw; I loved every single page and yes J.B. Hartnett you have a new fan!
Anika (Inky), a young woman, scared by her past, yet making a life for herself. She works at a bar but her true calling is art. She paints going through a unique process that makes her channel her feelings and darkest secrets. She is finally happy with her fiancé, a man she waited for years to decide having a real relationship with her. Anika has a beautiful tattoo of a tree on her back but, that is another story; the meaning behind it is just sad and beautiful at the same time.
Enter Cole, an intriguing sexy man who ends up at the bar on night. The connection and the pull both him and Inky feel on their first meeting is overwhelming; especially when he is able to pull Inky out from a panic attack; he sings to her, he soothes her and that becomes a pivotal moment in her life…. She just doesn’t know it.
Let’s just say that life happens: an art gallery, a painting is sold, lovers and friends show their true colors and the past pays a visit. Cole and Inky meet again and don’t deny their feelings. Their relationship becomes soul bonding, intense and utterly beautiful; they understand and heal each other in many ways; Cole becomes her rock and he starts to find himself again thanks to her. I just couldn’t put the book down.
J.B. Harnett does an amazing job showing us a backstory of abuse, neglect and utter misery; at the same time she shows how being relentless and strong and determined leads to finding fulfillment and happiness.
I really recommend this book, it’s an amazing journey but, be warned, you need to have book two “Cole” ready in your reader because the cliffhanger ending is …. Just ….a hair pulling, nail biting experience!!!
August 6, 2013
What can I say about this book? I’ll start with “Oh My God!”
If you want to read the synopsis, just look at the Amazon link. I want to tell you why I think this book is amazing. I will admit, at first, I was thinking this book is a bit slow but then it reached out and smacked in the face.
Now that I’ve finished it, I think this may have been a ploy used by J. B. Hartnett. Maybe I’m wrong. If you’ve read my reviews before, you know I love a book in which I become emotionally attached to the characters and this is one of them. The author’s character development and portrayal is excellent.
Inky made me love her as a BFF and I felt her ups and downs. She made me cry a little and she made me smile. I cheered for her from the sidelines and mentally high fived her on a few occasions. I wanted to be friends with Aimes, her BFF. That brings me to Cole, mmmmmmm Cole. He is now my favourite BBF. I think he may have even replaced Brax from BJ Harvey’s Lost series. (Sorry BJ but he’s closer to my age.) Abe and Anthony are terrific and Gus is a sweetheart. But wait…..there’s more.
This isn’t just a book of love and laughter, there is so much more. There are characters that kept me wondering, guessing and yes, hating. It’s not predictable. Like Inky’s paintings, this book is full of light and dark. Not just the characters, but the events as well. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I gave Inky 5 out of 5 stars.
Written by Karen from Confessions of a Bookaholic
If you want to read the synopsis, just look at the Amazon link. I want to tell you why I think this book is amazing. I will admit, at first, I was thinking this book is a bit slow but then it reached out and smacked in the face.
Now that I’ve finished it, I think this may have been a ploy used by J. B. Hartnett. Maybe I’m wrong. If you’ve read my reviews before, you know I love a book in which I become emotionally attached to the characters and this is one of them. The author’s character development and portrayal is excellent.
Inky made me love her as a BFF and I felt her ups and downs. She made me cry a little and she made me smile. I cheered for her from the sidelines and mentally high fived her on a few occasions. I wanted to be friends with Aimes, her BFF. That brings me to Cole, mmmmmmm Cole. He is now my favourite BBF. I think he may have even replaced Brax from BJ Harvey’s Lost series. (Sorry BJ but he’s closer to my age.) Abe and Anthony are terrific and Gus is a sweetheart. But wait…..there’s more.
This isn’t just a book of love and laughter, there is so much more. There are characters that kept me wondering, guessing and yes, hating. It’s not predictable. Like Inky’s paintings, this book is full of light and dark. Not just the characters, but the events as well. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I gave Inky 5 out of 5 stars.
Written by Karen from Confessions of a Bookaholic
September 20, 2013
"Do you read much mommy-porn?"
Well yes, yes I do! Because I love it and I loved this one too.
'I'm sweetness with a potty mouth and an attitude.'
We meet Inky and her sweet boyfriend Evan, who have had a lot of history with each other but decided it was finally their time. After five min of dating, they get engaged. Inky has secrets though. She has never felt the need to share them, but what the past comes back, she's forced to let Evan in. Except he doesn't respond the way a boyfriend should.
When she finds out he isn't who she thought he was, Inky finds comfort in a strangers arms. Cole has known Inky for a couple months and has waited on the side lines respecting her relationship. Now that its over he wants to be the one to help her. To get her to open up. To feel loved.
'I couldn't do this. I couldn't take a risk of him not loving me. Or worse, me thinking he did and finding out later that I was, once again, an idiot.'
So Inky tries to keep her head on straight and not give into the fierce connection she and Cole feel.
'What woman says they just want to f***, no strings attached? The perfect woman, that's who..'
As their feeling for each other grow Inky has to face the demons of her past. Cole has demon of his own though. He is considered, 'the other half', so he has to adjust to his world and find a place in it. But her past isn't behind her yet, and its back for revenge.
Well yes, yes I do! Because I love it and I loved this one too.
'I'm sweetness with a potty mouth and an attitude.'
We meet Inky and her sweet boyfriend Evan, who have had a lot of history with each other but decided it was finally their time. After five min of dating, they get engaged. Inky has secrets though. She has never felt the need to share them, but what the past comes back, she's forced to let Evan in. Except he doesn't respond the way a boyfriend should.
When she finds out he isn't who she thought he was, Inky finds comfort in a strangers arms. Cole has known Inky for a couple months and has waited on the side lines respecting her relationship. Now that its over he wants to be the one to help her. To get her to open up. To feel loved.
'I couldn't do this. I couldn't take a risk of him not loving me. Or worse, me thinking he did and finding out later that I was, once again, an idiot.'
So Inky tries to keep her head on straight and not give into the fierce connection she and Cole feel.
'What woman says they just want to f***, no strings attached? The perfect woman, that's who..'
As their feeling for each other grow Inky has to face the demons of her past. Cole has demon of his own though. He is considered, 'the other half', so he has to adjust to his world and find a place in it. But her past isn't behind her yet, and its back for revenge.
September 21, 2013
I was not expecting the story that came with this book. When I first opened it, I have to say that I judged the book by its cover (and title). I had NO idea what I had been missing! Inky is the main character's nickname and she has had quite a life. She has suffered terrible physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and she is coping best she can. She works in a bar with her friends and really likes her life. She also paints, but hasn't really made any money at it yet. One day a gorgeous man comes into the bar and he is a jerk to her. Inky doesn't really give him much consideration because she is engaged. All that changes one fateful day and she can't get him out of her mind. Inky suffers more trauma and betrayal before the book ends. I don't believe in giving spoilers but I will say that this book ends in a MAJOR cliffhanger. However, the follow up book, Cole, is now available. I highly recommend that you read these books. Your heart will be ripped out, you will cry, but you will have hope. 5 out of 5!
October 21, 2013
I read this whole thing, I never got the connection between the characters. I never felt anything actually. So unfortunately I have this give this book a 1 star. Oh well...I will not be moving on to book 2.
September 2, 2013
Awesome debut novel. Totally sucked into the life of Inky. She has a fantastic down to earth friend, she is facing her demons and following her heart. Mammoth cliffhanger, bring on Cole (book 2)
September 11, 2013
Jointly reviewed on: http://totallybookedblog.com/2013/08/...
Jenny: Once again we go into a book completely blind and once again I really enjoyed it. The title and synopsis of this book intrigued us and so we took a plunge into Inky’s world and what an intense, passionate, heartbreaking, sad and yet witty world it was.
We meet Inky (Anika) as she in the throes of love with her fiancée Evan. He’s everything she’s always wanted and Inky has been there, waiting in the wings, until Evan was ready to finish sewing his wild oats and settle down. She is in seventh heaven until the day the gorgeous Cole walks into her life and that’s where the story starts to take off. Her past comes back to haunt her at this time and I couldn’t wait to delve deeper and find out all the nitty gritty about Inky’s secrets, to uncover what lay beneath the surface.
“I won’t tell him. That’s your story to tell. But Ink? You should let him in. He loves you. This is part of who you are.” Aimes
How about you Gitte, did you enjoy this story?
Gitte: I absolutely loved this story Jenny. Classic example of finding a gem and knowing nothing about it. It was intriguing, so very heart-breaking and emotional yet funny and sweet too. I loved all the characters well except for Joe, Inky’s Mum and Cole’s Dad of course. I wanted to pull out a baseball bat on them! The story of Inky swept me away and I loved pretty much every minute of it. Should really mention the cliffy though…..it’s a tough one!!!!
“I’m sweet which can also give the impression that I’m weak. I’m not. I’m sweetness with a potty mouth and an attitude.” – Inky
Jenny: Well, book two is out in a few weeks so we don’t have to wait too long thank goodness! This story was so much more than a story of healing and finding love, finding that soul mate, finding that person who makes you whole. I also loved the friendship side of this story between Inky and Aimes. These two BFF’s were a crack up. I found myself laughing along with them and I loved how Inky had someone like Aimes in her corner, someone who never judged her, who never pitied her and who always encouraged her.
“Feel whatever you need to feel and get it the fuck out of you. It’s all poison my friend.”- Aimes
Aimes shared Inky’s pain and was fiercely protective of her. Aimes was Inky’s rock, her voice of reason and her light relief when life got her down. I loved the pragmatic, witty Aimes, in fact I loved them both and I loved their friendship.
“Well, ain’t that a pickle?” -Aimes
“How am I supposed to respond to that?” – Inky
The electricity between Cole and Inky is intense and you feel the palpable chemistry from that first meeting. As we peel back the layers and discover the horrific past Inky has endured, as we learn the significance of her unique tattoo and the stories behind her art, your heart really does break for Inky, but this girl, despite her hurt and sadness does not let life get her down.
“Everyone asked why I was called Inky or Ink instead of Anika. The meaning behind it though was a different story.”
No siree, she picks herself up, she deals and she attempts to move on as best she can. I found Inky such a refreshing character and loved how she always seemed to find humour in even the direst of situations. This girl was hiding so much pain behind her carefully constructed façade. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: I loved Inky, she was strong and passionate. After everything she has been through she really is a survivor and at no stage did she annoy me. She is real, a great friend and has a fab sense of humour.
“You’re just, you’re just so, matter of fact about it. It’s like you’re talking about something that happened to someone else.” – Aimes
She dealt so well with her past which comes back to haunt her in a really dramatic and emotional way. I loved the meaning behind her tattoo…a talisman of her pain and her being hurt and degraded. The way this Author described her art and the moments of pain and heart ache was truly beautiful in its ugliness.
“I’d always been guarded emotionally, knowing I was the only person I could depend on.” – Inky
As for her friendship with Aimes, well I just loved these two together. A true friendship that can never be tested by others. They are there for each other in every way and I laughed and cried with them. Aimes really was the light to Inky’s dark. And on that note….Cole.
Cole was a mystery that I loved to unravel. He was lush! He has his own demons just like Inky, but together, they just worked.
“And plain as day, I saw it; such a terrible loneliness. Maybe he was just as fucked up as I was. What a team.” – Inky
Their chemistry was definitely tangible and they each gave the other what they needed. They were soul mates, no doubt about it. So much drama and pain, so much hurt, yet ultimately amongst the laughter and passion came the healing. I really did love their story!
“I want you to trust me. I want to be your destination, not your distraction.” – Cole
My only complaint is the pet peeve I have. It wouldn’t be fair not to mention it in this review, as I do in all other reviews when this issue crops up. I wish Authors would leave 50 Shades references out of their books. Or any other book characters for that matter now we’re on this topic. This is your book; your characters. I want to enjoy your book without being reminded of others, it takes me out the moment and away from your story. I wish that scene hadn’t been in there, it was unnecessary and it annoyed me sadly.
Overall though I thought the writing was fab, the characters all played a part and I cried, laughed and swooned with them. Now, I can’t wait for the sequel because wow, as I said, what a cliff-hanger!!!
“Then let’s be scared together, Anika. Let me love you the way you should be loved. We’ll take each day as it comes but we have to talk. You have to promise me that if you start to feel panicky at all, you tell me. Don’t walk away. I want to help. I mean it.” - Cole
Jenny: I completely agree Gitte. I too don’t want to be thinking about another book while I’m deep in the throes of a particular book. It really is a pet peeve of ours that’s for sure. But it was a tiny blimp and we were soon back on track. Whilst I was swept away with the passion and romance in this story, I certainly also experienced the pain on both sides with Cole carrying his own demons. Inky and Cole are both such tortured souls, each dealing in their own way but in each other they might have just found an adversary who may be the key to unlocking that pain, and putting it behind them. Can these two damaged people find a way to heal each other and themselves?
“I want to be with you, even with all the fucked up stuff, because I’m equally fucked. I assure you.” – Cole
I really enjoyed this story and I just adored Inky, Cole and the secondary characters. Each added humour and love to this story and each was a breath of fresh air when the sadness of Inky’s story overwhelmed you. Aimee, Gus, Trish, Anthony and who can forget Abe. I adored him!!
“Abe, I kind of want to kiss you right now, tongue and all.” Inky
“Ah, well, I’m flattered but you know that’s not how I roll.” Abe
This was a story of friendship, love, soul mates, hurt, pain, healing and finding that one person who knows you, the real you. It’s about letting go of your past and treasuring your future and it’s all handled with equal doses of emotion and humour.
“Oh I’m sorry I woke you. It’s kind of like waking up next to Chris Isaak. You really don’t want to waste a single minute of the experience.” Inky
We’re glad we found Inky and we certainly enjoyed every minute of that experience and recommend adding this one to your TBR’s. It does end on a cliffy but Cole, Book Two is due for release on 21st September and we are DYING to get stuck into that one!!
Jenny: Once again we go into a book completely blind and once again I really enjoyed it. The title and synopsis of this book intrigued us and so we took a plunge into Inky’s world and what an intense, passionate, heartbreaking, sad and yet witty world it was.
We meet Inky (Anika) as she in the throes of love with her fiancée Evan. He’s everything she’s always wanted and Inky has been there, waiting in the wings, until Evan was ready to finish sewing his wild oats and settle down. She is in seventh heaven until the day the gorgeous Cole walks into her life and that’s where the story starts to take off. Her past comes back to haunt her at this time and I couldn’t wait to delve deeper and find out all the nitty gritty about Inky’s secrets, to uncover what lay beneath the surface.
“I won’t tell him. That’s your story to tell. But Ink? You should let him in. He loves you. This is part of who you are.” Aimes
How about you Gitte, did you enjoy this story?
Gitte: I absolutely loved this story Jenny. Classic example of finding a gem and knowing nothing about it. It was intriguing, so very heart-breaking and emotional yet funny and sweet too. I loved all the characters well except for Joe, Inky’s Mum and Cole’s Dad of course. I wanted to pull out a baseball bat on them! The story of Inky swept me away and I loved pretty much every minute of it. Should really mention the cliffy though…..it’s a tough one!!!!
“I’m sweet which can also give the impression that I’m weak. I’m not. I’m sweetness with a potty mouth and an attitude.” – Inky
Jenny: Well, book two is out in a few weeks so we don’t have to wait too long thank goodness! This story was so much more than a story of healing and finding love, finding that soul mate, finding that person who makes you whole. I also loved the friendship side of this story between Inky and Aimes. These two BFF’s were a crack up. I found myself laughing along with them and I loved how Inky had someone like Aimes in her corner, someone who never judged her, who never pitied her and who always encouraged her.
“Feel whatever you need to feel and get it the fuck out of you. It’s all poison my friend.”- Aimes
Aimes shared Inky’s pain and was fiercely protective of her. Aimes was Inky’s rock, her voice of reason and her light relief when life got her down. I loved the pragmatic, witty Aimes, in fact I loved them both and I loved their friendship.
“Well, ain’t that a pickle?” -Aimes
“How am I supposed to respond to that?” – Inky
The electricity between Cole and Inky is intense and you feel the palpable chemistry from that first meeting. As we peel back the layers and discover the horrific past Inky has endured, as we learn the significance of her unique tattoo and the stories behind her art, your heart really does break for Inky, but this girl, despite her hurt and sadness does not let life get her down.
“Everyone asked why I was called Inky or Ink instead of Anika. The meaning behind it though was a different story.”
No siree, she picks herself up, she deals and she attempts to move on as best she can. I found Inky such a refreshing character and loved how she always seemed to find humour in even the direst of situations. This girl was hiding so much pain behind her carefully constructed façade. What about you Gitte?
Gitte: I loved Inky, she was strong and passionate. After everything she has been through she really is a survivor and at no stage did she annoy me. She is real, a great friend and has a fab sense of humour.
“You’re just, you’re just so, matter of fact about it. It’s like you’re talking about something that happened to someone else.” – Aimes
She dealt so well with her past which comes back to haunt her in a really dramatic and emotional way. I loved the meaning behind her tattoo…a talisman of her pain and her being hurt and degraded. The way this Author described her art and the moments of pain and heart ache was truly beautiful in its ugliness.
“I’d always been guarded emotionally, knowing I was the only person I could depend on.” – Inky
As for her friendship with Aimes, well I just loved these two together. A true friendship that can never be tested by others. They are there for each other in every way and I laughed and cried with them. Aimes really was the light to Inky’s dark. And on that note….Cole.
Cole was a mystery that I loved to unravel. He was lush! He has his own demons just like Inky, but together, they just worked.
“And plain as day, I saw it; such a terrible loneliness. Maybe he was just as fucked up as I was. What a team.” – Inky
Their chemistry was definitely tangible and they each gave the other what they needed. They were soul mates, no doubt about it. So much drama and pain, so much hurt, yet ultimately amongst the laughter and passion came the healing. I really did love their story!
“I want you to trust me. I want to be your destination, not your distraction.” – Cole
My only complaint is the pet peeve I have. It wouldn’t be fair not to mention it in this review, as I do in all other reviews when this issue crops up. I wish Authors would leave 50 Shades references out of their books. Or any other book characters for that matter now we’re on this topic. This is your book; your characters. I want to enjoy your book without being reminded of others, it takes me out the moment and away from your story. I wish that scene hadn’t been in there, it was unnecessary and it annoyed me sadly.
Overall though I thought the writing was fab, the characters all played a part and I cried, laughed and swooned with them. Now, I can’t wait for the sequel because wow, as I said, what a cliff-hanger!!!
“Then let’s be scared together, Anika. Let me love you the way you should be loved. We’ll take each day as it comes but we have to talk. You have to promise me that if you start to feel panicky at all, you tell me. Don’t walk away. I want to help. I mean it.” - Cole
Jenny: I completely agree Gitte. I too don’t want to be thinking about another book while I’m deep in the throes of a particular book. It really is a pet peeve of ours that’s for sure. But it was a tiny blimp and we were soon back on track. Whilst I was swept away with the passion and romance in this story, I certainly also experienced the pain on both sides with Cole carrying his own demons. Inky and Cole are both such tortured souls, each dealing in their own way but in each other they might have just found an adversary who may be the key to unlocking that pain, and putting it behind them. Can these two damaged people find a way to heal each other and themselves?
“I want to be with you, even with all the fucked up stuff, because I’m equally fucked. I assure you.” – Cole
I really enjoyed this story and I just adored Inky, Cole and the secondary characters. Each added humour and love to this story and each was a breath of fresh air when the sadness of Inky’s story overwhelmed you. Aimee, Gus, Trish, Anthony and who can forget Abe. I adored him!!
“Abe, I kind of want to kiss you right now, tongue and all.” Inky
“Ah, well, I’m flattered but you know that’s not how I roll.” Abe
This was a story of friendship, love, soul mates, hurt, pain, healing and finding that one person who knows you, the real you. It’s about letting go of your past and treasuring your future and it’s all handled with equal doses of emotion and humour.
“Oh I’m sorry I woke you. It’s kind of like waking up next to Chris Isaak. You really don’t want to waste a single minute of the experience.” Inky
We’re glad we found Inky and we certainly enjoyed every minute of that experience and recommend adding this one to your TBR’s. It does end on a cliffy but Cole, Book Two is due for release on 21st September and we are DYING to get stuck into that one!!
August 29, 2013
5 STARS LEAVES!!! AMAZING!
────(♥)(♥)(♥)────(♥)(♥)(♥) __ ɪƒ ƴσυ'ʀє αʟσηє,
──(♥)██████(♥)(♥)██████(♥) ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ѕɧα∂σѡ.
─(♥)████████(♥)████████(♥) ɪƒ ƴσυ ѡαηт тσ cʀƴ,
─(♥)██████████████████(♥) ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ѕɧσυʟ∂єʀ.
──(♥)████████████████(♥) ɪƒ ƴσυ ѡαηt α ɧυɢ,
────(♥)████████████(♥) __ ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ρɪʟʟσѡ.
──────(♥)████████(♥) ɪƒ ƴσυ ηєє∂ to ɓє ɧαρρƴ,
────────(♥)████(♥) __ ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ѕɱɪʟє.
─────────(♥)██(♥) ɓυt αηƴtɪɱє ƴσυ ηєє∂ α ƒʀɪєη∂,
───────────(♥) __ ɪ'ʟʟ ʝυst ɓє ɱє.
THE STORY IS JUST AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE COVER!
Wow!!!! Just wow! (sigh) I really really love this book!! No, I ADORE it!!! Inky is one of those hidden gems everyone needs to discover.
Inky really touched my heart. Her story has left an indelible mark – she has definitely tattooed my heart. Every book I read makes me feel something, but Inky made me feel EVERYTHING !!! This book will definitely stay with me for a LONG LONG LONG time…..
This
Story
Is
Absolutely
Beautiful
Inky is refreshingly different, a breath of fresh air. It’s a great surprise to pick up a book and get more than you ever expected or even imagined. It’s funny, smart, sweet, heart breaking, and just all around wonderful. It’s a story of best friends, horrible pasts, devastating truths, and a chance to move forward.
Inky isn't just a story. It does something to you. It grabs you. It makes you think. It makes you hurt. It makes you feel.
Inky has been through a lot in her short 25 years, and her bestie, Aimes, has been there through it all. Finally, Inky’s in a good place in her life and finds what she thinks is love; but, once again everything comes crashing down. Aimes is there to help pick up the pieces, but so is someone else – Cole. Is Cole Inky’s “dreamy knight-in-shining-smells-good-nice-eyes guy”? He very well could be if she can open her heart and move forward. Inky can’t deny the pull between her and Cole, but she’s afraid and rightfully so. Cole’s not like other guys. But can she push herself to take that chance?
"If it's right, It's right. Life's too short to be scared all the time."
The cast of characters JB Hartnett has created is awesome – one I wanted to slap, one I wanted to punch, a few I wanted to be BFFs with, and one I just wanted marry. You know how you always fall in love with the male character? Well, this time I fell I love with Inky. OMG! I love and adore this girl! She’s smart, strong, sassy, adorable and utterly LOVEABLE.
JB Hartnett’s writing style is smart, witty, and beautiful with a great flow – I just love it. The way she mixes art, music, and feeling is so wonderfully different. The story has depth, and everything in Inky has a meaning. She sure knows when to throw in the humor, too. It's a pity I can't even share my absolute favorite moment because it would be a spoiler. It was classic and caught me so totally off guard that I bust out laughing in the middle of the train. JB Hartnett has become one of my favorite authors!
***Inky is definitely one of my Top 5 Reads for 2013***
────(♥)(♥)(♥)────(♥)(♥)(♥) __ ɪƒ ƴσυ'ʀє αʟσηє,
──(♥)██████(♥)(♥)██████(♥) ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ѕɧα∂σѡ.
─(♥)████████(♥)████████(♥) ɪƒ ƴσυ ѡαηт тσ cʀƴ,
─(♥)██████████████████(♥) ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ѕɧσυʟ∂єʀ.
──(♥)████████████████(♥) ɪƒ ƴσυ ѡαηt α ɧυɢ,
────(♥)████████████(♥) __ ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ρɪʟʟσѡ.
──────(♥)████████(♥) ɪƒ ƴσυ ηєє∂ to ɓє ɧαρρƴ,
────────(♥)████(♥) __ ɪ'ʟʟ ɓє ƴσυʀ ѕɱɪʟє.
─────────(♥)██(♥) ɓυt αηƴtɪɱє ƴσυ ηєє∂ α ƒʀɪєη∂,
───────────(♥) __ ɪ'ʟʟ ʝυst ɓє ɱє.
THE STORY IS JUST AS BEAUTIFUL AS THE COVER!
Wow!!!! Just wow! (sigh) I really really love this book!! No, I ADORE it!!! Inky is one of those hidden gems everyone needs to discover.
Inky really touched my heart. Her story has left an indelible mark – she has definitely tattooed my heart. Every book I read makes me feel something, but Inky made me feel EVERYTHING !!! This book will definitely stay with me for a LONG LONG LONG time…..
This
Story
Is
Absolutely
Beautiful
Inky is refreshingly different, a breath of fresh air. It’s a great surprise to pick up a book and get more than you ever expected or even imagined. It’s funny, smart, sweet, heart breaking, and just all around wonderful. It’s a story of best friends, horrible pasts, devastating truths, and a chance to move forward.
Inky isn't just a story. It does something to you. It grabs you. It makes you think. It makes you hurt. It makes you feel.
Inky has been through a lot in her short 25 years, and her bestie, Aimes, has been there through it all. Finally, Inky’s in a good place in her life and finds what she thinks is love; but, once again everything comes crashing down. Aimes is there to help pick up the pieces, but so is someone else – Cole. Is Cole Inky’s “dreamy knight-in-shining-smells-good-nice-eyes guy”? He very well could be if she can open her heart and move forward. Inky can’t deny the pull between her and Cole, but she’s afraid and rightfully so. Cole’s not like other guys. But can she push herself to take that chance?
"If it's right, It's right. Life's too short to be scared all the time."
The cast of characters JB Hartnett has created is awesome – one I wanted to slap, one I wanted to punch, a few I wanted to be BFFs with, and one I just wanted marry. You know how you always fall in love with the male character? Well, this time I fell I love with Inky. OMG! I love and adore this girl! She’s smart, strong, sassy, adorable and utterly LOVEABLE.
JB Hartnett’s writing style is smart, witty, and beautiful with a great flow – I just love it. The way she mixes art, music, and feeling is so wonderfully different. The story has depth, and everything in Inky has a meaning. She sure knows when to throw in the humor, too. It's a pity I can't even share my absolute favorite moment because it would be a spoiler. It was classic and caught me so totally off guard that I bust out laughing in the middle of the train. JB Hartnett has become one of my favorite authors!
***Inky is definitely one of my Top 5 Reads for 2013***
September 5, 2013
5 STAR RATING FOR “INKY”
Before I even tell you how much I loved this book, just know that at the end of the book I kept hitting my nook and wondered where the rest was. The ending is a major cliffhanger…..
Anika, or Inky as we all know her, was a child of many different things but abuse would be the best to describe it. Mentally her mother and the boyfriend treated her bad. We learned throughout the book that the abuse Inky receives puts her in a place that she sometimes tends to stay. We learn a lot about the people in her life that are her “friends”.
Evan should have been the person who she would marry, because they were engaged, and protected her from herself and everything in the world but he wasn’t. He was a liar who cheated on her with one of her best friends…so enough about the slack people in her life…
Aimes and Cole (and his mom) are Inky’s “bright light”. They help her with the problems that she faces, the panic attacks that happen, the struggles of everyday life and everything else under the sun.
Now onto the MAN… Cole meets her at the bar where she works and it’s somewhat of a love at first sight. There is a connection but it’s more than the normal connection that people have.
“Just relax Anika. As much as I want to make love to you, I want to savor every moment before it and after as well. I want you to trust me. I want to be your destination not your distraction.”
He sees the something in Inky that Aimes doesn’t. He feels her troubles because he too has gone through them. His father is his “trigger”. His father is the person who makes him feel like he’s nothing, worth nothing and can never be anything. For Inky, it’s her mother and the boyfriend (who we will get to know a little of but more in book two). Inky’s triggers lead her to panic attacks and tattoos. Cole’s trigger leads him to a suicide attempt. His mother helped him cope but ART helps Inky. She has an amazing talent that comes out when she is in a dark place. Art is her way out; it’s her drug of choice to deal with life, when it’s beating her up. The connection that they have it very noticeable and they give into the inevitable. They let love take over but they also let each other be the comfort and safety they each need.
(Any more information will spoil the book and I don’t want to do that because now I want to tell the entire story.)
J.B.Harnett did an excellent job on this book and I can’t wait for the release of Cole.
Before I even tell you how much I loved this book, just know that at the end of the book I kept hitting my nook and wondered where the rest was. The ending is a major cliffhanger…..
Anika, or Inky as we all know her, was a child of many different things but abuse would be the best to describe it. Mentally her mother and the boyfriend treated her bad. We learned throughout the book that the abuse Inky receives puts her in a place that she sometimes tends to stay. We learn a lot about the people in her life that are her “friends”.
Evan should have been the person who she would marry, because they were engaged, and protected her from herself and everything in the world but he wasn’t. He was a liar who cheated on her with one of her best friends…so enough about the slack people in her life…
Aimes and Cole (and his mom) are Inky’s “bright light”. They help her with the problems that she faces, the panic attacks that happen, the struggles of everyday life and everything else under the sun.
Now onto the MAN… Cole meets her at the bar where she works and it’s somewhat of a love at first sight. There is a connection but it’s more than the normal connection that people have.
“Just relax Anika. As much as I want to make love to you, I want to savor every moment before it and after as well. I want you to trust me. I want to be your destination not your distraction.”
He sees the something in Inky that Aimes doesn’t. He feels her troubles because he too has gone through them. His father is his “trigger”. His father is the person who makes him feel like he’s nothing, worth nothing and can never be anything. For Inky, it’s her mother and the boyfriend (who we will get to know a little of but more in book two). Inky’s triggers lead her to panic attacks and tattoos. Cole’s trigger leads him to a suicide attempt. His mother helped him cope but ART helps Inky. She has an amazing talent that comes out when she is in a dark place. Art is her way out; it’s her drug of choice to deal with life, when it’s beating her up. The connection that they have it very noticeable and they give into the inevitable. They let love take over but they also let each other be the comfort and safety they each need.
(Any more information will spoil the book and I don’t want to do that because now I want to tell the entire story.)
J.B.Harnett did an excellent job on this book and I can’t wait for the release of Cole.
August 13, 2013
Anika (Inky) Redding is a broken tough girl. Her childhood wasn't exactly filled with happy times thanks to her mother and Joe. (I wanted to punch her mother in the face for the things she allowed and even told Joe to do to Inky!!!!)
Inky decided one day that she had had enough and she left her mother's condo and never looked back.
Now, she is in a relationship with a boy,Evan, that she has been "in love" with forever. They started as friends first, her always watching him leave with a different girl from the bar she works at. All of a sudden Evan decides he wants them to be together exclusively and within two weeks they are engaged to be married.
Warning bells were going off in my head when I read this!
To escape her nightmare's and to deal with her abusive past, Inky paints. She paints beautiful works of art in her art studio to find solace. Painting is the only thing that can make her forget.
Inky has the greatest best friend named Aimee, who has been there though it all. Aimee is the one that consoled Inky after she was abused when they were younger. She is one of the few people who know everything Inky has gone though.
EVERY GIRL SHOULD HAVE A BEST FRIEND LIKE AIMEE! Seriously! Especially how she kicked ass at a certain point in the book...you'll know what I'm talking about when you read it. BEST.FRIEND.EVER!
While working one night at the bar, Inky meets Cole. He is a sad, lonely, heart broken man. However, there is something about him that draws Inky towards him and vise versa. He can comfort her like no one else before. He shows her how to cope. However, he has past demons of his own, mainly his father.
J.B.Hartnett is a brilliant author and her writing style will keep you glued to each page to find out what happens.
When both of their pasts come back, can they lean on each other for support? Read Inky and find out.
*Warning* This book does end in a cliffhanger. (Dang-it!)
I want to know what happens next!!!
I will be stalking you for book two J.B. Hartnett!
Inky decided one day that she had had enough and she left her mother's condo and never looked back.
Now, she is in a relationship with a boy,Evan, that she has been "in love" with forever. They started as friends first, her always watching him leave with a different girl from the bar she works at. All of a sudden Evan decides he wants them to be together exclusively and within two weeks they are engaged to be married.
Warning bells were going off in my head when I read this!
To escape her nightmare's and to deal with her abusive past, Inky paints. She paints beautiful works of art in her art studio to find solace. Painting is the only thing that can make her forget.
Inky has the greatest best friend named Aimee, who has been there though it all. Aimee is the one that consoled Inky after she was abused when they were younger. She is one of the few people who know everything Inky has gone though.
EVERY GIRL SHOULD HAVE A BEST FRIEND LIKE AIMEE! Seriously! Especially how she kicked ass at a certain point in the book...you'll know what I'm talking about when you read it. BEST.FRIEND.EVER!
While working one night at the bar, Inky meets Cole. He is a sad, lonely, heart broken man. However, there is something about him that draws Inky towards him and vise versa. He can comfort her like no one else before. He shows her how to cope. However, he has past demons of his own, mainly his father.
J.B.Hartnett is a brilliant author and her writing style will keep you glued to each page to find out what happens.
When both of their pasts come back, can they lean on each other for support? Read Inky and find out.
*Warning* This book does end in a cliffhanger. (Dang-it!)
I want to know what happens next!!!
I will be stalking you for book two J.B. Hartnett!
December 13, 2013
You know that feeling you get when you read a book so good that you know that it will stay in your mind and you simply want more. This is what happened with this book. In fact it was so good that as soon as I hit the last page, which was left on a jaw dropping ending by the way, I quickly went into the kindle store and bought book 2, Cole (The Leaves).
The plot to this book is simply breath taking. It is all about Inky and how she meets and feels an instantaneous connection with a man who walks into the bar where she works. However she has recently become engaged to a man that she loves, but also a man that she struggles to confide to the deepest darkest secrets of her past. Believe me when I say that the story of her past is not a happy one by any means.
When her past catches up to her and she is attacked outside of her workplace it is her meeting with the stranger in the bar that helps her through her terrible ordeal so when she meets up with him again she desperately wants to do something about the connection that they both obviously feel, but she doesn’t until things come to a head with her fiancé.
I will say no more on the story, all I will say is that what comes next is just beautiful. It isn’t often a book touches me as deeply as this one has, yes I find books that I love and end up reading all of the series/authors work, but books like this are few and far between. I know some may read the story after having read this review and perhaps wonder what on earth I am talking about. All I can say that this is my personal opinion and can only hope that upon reading this book you feel the same way.
I am now off to read book 2 and can only hope that it just gets better from this first book, if that is even possible!!
Please note I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The plot to this book is simply breath taking. It is all about Inky and how she meets and feels an instantaneous connection with a man who walks into the bar where she works. However she has recently become engaged to a man that she loves, but also a man that she struggles to confide to the deepest darkest secrets of her past. Believe me when I say that the story of her past is not a happy one by any means.
When her past catches up to her and she is attacked outside of her workplace it is her meeting with the stranger in the bar that helps her through her terrible ordeal so when she meets up with him again she desperately wants to do something about the connection that they both obviously feel, but she doesn’t until things come to a head with her fiancé.
I will say no more on the story, all I will say is that what comes next is just beautiful. It isn’t often a book touches me as deeply as this one has, yes I find books that I love and end up reading all of the series/authors work, but books like this are few and far between. I know some may read the story after having read this review and perhaps wonder what on earth I am talking about. All I can say that this is my personal opinion and can only hope that upon reading this book you feel the same way.
I am now off to read book 2 and can only hope that it just gets better from this first book, if that is even possible!!
Please note I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2013
Umm. This book started off one way and finished another. There's super insta love. And there was definitely a cheesy factor in there. There's a douche bag, a slut, a hot rich guy, a great best friend, and there's Inky (Anika) who's all sorts cute and messed up.
Anika was an artist, a talented one at that, and a bartender on weekends. She has two roommates, one is the great friend and the other is the slut.
There's her man Evan who was "off" to me from the very start. They had been "engaged" without a ring and before that they were fuck buddies. He seemed like such a looser and player. I didn't like him.
Cole is the hot rich guy who upon seeing Anika just has to know her. Hmmm right? Insta love much?
Cole kinda pops in on the scene and when the timing is right swoops in and gets the object of his dreams.
Once he is in the pic, the insta love happens and then the story didn't make much sense from there on. They hardly know each other, practically live together and talk of marriage. I felt like I had a permanent scowl on my face while reading because I kept thinking "did I accidentally start reading a diff book on my e reader? ". There wasn't a good flow for me. And I am one that does not favor cliffy endings, so when I got to the cliffy ending I was just happy to get off this ride. Know what I mean.
The second book is Cole, which I will read so that I can hopefully make more sense if this mess.
Anika was an artist, a talented one at that, and a bartender on weekends. She has two roommates, one is the great friend and the other is the slut.
There's her man Evan who was "off" to me from the very start. They had been "engaged" without a ring and before that they were fuck buddies. He seemed like such a looser and player. I didn't like him.
Cole is the hot rich guy who upon seeing Anika just has to know her. Hmmm right? Insta love much?
Cole kinda pops in on the scene and when the timing is right swoops in and gets the object of his dreams.
Once he is in the pic, the insta love happens and then the story didn't make much sense from there on. They hardly know each other, practically live together and talk of marriage. I felt like I had a permanent scowl on my face while reading because I kept thinking "did I accidentally start reading a diff book on my e reader? ". There wasn't a good flow for me. And I am one that does not favor cliffy endings, so when I got to the cliffy ending I was just happy to get off this ride. Know what I mean.
The second book is Cole, which I will read so that I can hopefully make more sense if this mess.
December 19, 2013
Inky suffered much as kid but somehow found a unique outlet for her pain and with her friend Aimes managed to deal with life. What do you do when the person you promise to marry doesn't get you? Even though you "love him" you still hide the most sacred and damaged part of yourself? You find someone whose demons are as dark and damaging as yours. A chance meeting brought Cole and Inky into each others lives but the current circumstances kept them apart. Once a betrayal was brought to light Inky walked straight toward her destiny (Cole) not without a moment of fear on both their parts. They're kindred spirits brought together by something that marked their souls. I'm glad they both had someone in their lives that kept them both from slipping completely into the dark. Cole without his mom and Inky without Aimes I fear they would have just let the darkness consume them. Thankfully their darkness led them to love to their soul mate. Dare I mention the heart stopping cliffhanger? A genius move on the authors part, I can hardly wait to read book two.
September 10, 2013
Anika, Inky to her friends, is a broken woman. Her story is one of betrayal, hurt and healing. She has endured more in her short life than many would in 10 lifetimes, but is still positive and hopeful that her future can overcome her past. Until the one person who is supposed to love her above all else does the unthinkable and she begins to question everything. She meets a stranger, he is handsome and a kindred spirit. Can she find real, everlasting love? Inky is a great story, so gripping and intense that I couldn't stop reading because I had to know what would happen. WARNING - ULTIMATE CLIFFHANGER, if you can't handle that I suggest waiting until the series is finished before you start this book! I have an undeniable book hangover right now, I need a 2nd book, ASAP!
July 27, 2013
This story is amazing! Anika and Cole... What an amazing ride.... So many twists and truths, hard sad truths are told in this amazing story!
It completely sucked me in..I couldn't put it down! I am sooo invested in theses characters... I can not wait until the next book...
Only reason it's not 5 stars is because it ends in a cliffie...personally not my fave... And I have no clue when the next book is out either... Even though, this is a must read!!!
It completely sucked me in..I couldn't put it down! I am sooo invested in theses characters... I can not wait until the next book...
Only reason it's not 5 stars is because it ends in a cliffie...personally not my fave... And I have no clue when the next book is out either... Even though, this is a must read!!!
October 3, 2013
Isn't it fun to fall in love? If your answer is yes - then you'll really enjoy this book! Without giving too much away - let's just say I fell in love with one of the characters along with the story. Also, the second book is out so you don't have to worry about a cliffy! I highly recommend this book!
September 6, 2013
Done! I couldn't make my self stop. I love Anika and Cole. My heart almost stop at the end, you are so evil J.B , how could you...lol. What a beautiful love story. Well done I can't wait for book 2. Thank you Julie Richman for the recommendation. :)
August 4, 2014
The minute I picked up this book I couldn't put it down. I really loved it. it was a heartfelt book that I loved so much. J.B. Hartnett did an amazing job. I felt the emotion with every turn of the page that these characters went through, I almost believed I was right there in the story.
November 6, 2013
Oh my. What an ending. Will inkys knight in shinning armour save her. He had better or all my illusions will be shattered. Cole, book two here i come. May need some sleep first, it is the wee hours of the morning cause i couldn't stop reading.. Loved loved Inky.
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