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Ink & Stardust
Fate is a funny little thing.
It had a good laugh when I found my boyfriend of four years in bed with my best friend.
It was rolling on the floor when the same backstabbing beasts stole my dream school, landing me in a different state, where I didn’t know a single soul.
You’d think after all that, it’d cut me a break, right?
Wrong.
Enter its next jest, and this one’s a doozy.
Kai Elliot. Campus womanizer. Self-proclaimed bad boy. And the new bane of my existence—but not for the reason you might think.
Kai is as beautiful as the ink that mars his skin. Perfect lines. Vibrant colors. Designs as intricate as the man who bears them. I knew from the first moment I laid eyes on him that he was dangerous. A man who would destroy everything I stood for, stripping me bare for the world to see, and that’s exactly what he does.
I don’t love him. Hell, I don’t even like him. But that doesn’t stop me from injecting him into my veins like he’s my own personal brand of narcotics. Nothing can top the high he gives me, which is why I keep coming back for more, even when I know I shouldn’t.
And just when I think maybe fate isn’t that bad after all, it goes and gets my traitorous heart involved. Because the only thing worse than loving a man who betrays you is loving a man who will never love you back.
If fate is real, I’m pretty sure it hates me.
Ink & Stardust is the first book in the Ink & Ashes series- a three-part STANDALONE series.
Each book has a different MMC & FMC and can be read as part of the series or completely on its own.
It had a good laugh when I found my boyfriend of four years in bed with my best friend.
It was rolling on the floor when the same backstabbing beasts stole my dream school, landing me in a different state, where I didn’t know a single soul.
You’d think after all that, it’d cut me a break, right?
Wrong.
Enter its next jest, and this one’s a doozy.
Kai Elliot. Campus womanizer. Self-proclaimed bad boy. And the new bane of my existence—but not for the reason you might think.
Kai is as beautiful as the ink that mars his skin. Perfect lines. Vibrant colors. Designs as intricate as the man who bears them. I knew from the first moment I laid eyes on him that he was dangerous. A man who would destroy everything I stood for, stripping me bare for the world to see, and that’s exactly what he does.
I don’t love him. Hell, I don’t even like him. But that doesn’t stop me from injecting him into my veins like he’s my own personal brand of narcotics. Nothing can top the high he gives me, which is why I keep coming back for more, even when I know I shouldn’t.
And just when I think maybe fate isn’t that bad after all, it goes and gets my traitorous heart involved. Because the only thing worse than loving a man who betrays you is loving a man who will never love you back.
If fate is real, I’m pretty sure it hates me.
Ink & Stardust is the first book in the Ink & Ashes series- a three-part STANDALONE series.
Each book has a different MMC & FMC and can be read as part of the series or completely on its own.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2025
237 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Toppen
55 books1,816 followersMelissa Toppen is a USA Today Bestselling Author who specializes in New Adult and Contemporary Romance. She is a lover of books and enjoys nothing more than losing herself in a good novel. She has a soft spot for romance and focuses her writing in that direction; writing what she loves to read.
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
For more information on Melissa and her books, visit www.melissatoppen.com
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July 27, 2025Too high school
March 4, 2025
The beginning of this story started with bang and that starts a new chapter in Lyric’s life. She changes her college plans and starts her new life in a new town and new friends. Next we meet Kai when Lyric and her roommates attend a campus party. Her roommates know him well and all about his reputation at the campus, but both Lyric and Kai are intrigued with each other. She starts noticing Kai is starting to show up where she is. They become friendly then not so friendly.
So begins the relationship with the good girl and the bad boy and once they make a decision to be together things between them get very very hot 🔥and feelings start, but is she starting to fall in love? This story’s main characters are both broken people for very different reasons. Kai’s ink cover his scarring from an accident early in his life. There was a statement in the the story that goes; Some of us wear our scarring on the outside and some wear it on the inside. I felt that explained a lot on what Kai and Lyric had been dealing with in their lives.
I’m excited that there’s going to be other books in this series. I really enjoyed meeting the other characters in the book. I really enjoyed reading about Lyric and Kai’s story. Another great story by Melissa.
So begins the relationship with the good girl and the bad boy and once they make a decision to be together things between them get very very hot 🔥and feelings start, but is she starting to fall in love? This story’s main characters are both broken people for very different reasons. Kai’s ink cover his scarring from an accident early in his life. There was a statement in the the story that goes; Some of us wear our scarring on the outside and some wear it on the inside. I felt that explained a lot on what Kai and Lyric had been dealing with in their lives.
I’m excited that there’s going to be other books in this series. I really enjoyed meeting the other characters in the book. I really enjoyed reading about Lyric and Kai’s story. Another great story by Melissa.
February 17, 2025
Oh my days.... what a fantastic start to a new series from Melissa Toppen.
Kai and Lyric's story was the first in the Ink & Ashes series, and theirs was full of angst and heart gripping emotions.
Lyric was heartbroken by her ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend that even though she had moved away to college it still affected her just thinking about them. Until she meets Kai.
The same Kai who has slept with almost every girl on campus, Lyrics tries to stay away but the pull between them is to real, to strong. It's supposed to be no feelings and casual but it's anything but.
I freaking loved this book. Absolutely everything about this book! I definitely recommend 👌
Kai and Lyric's story was the first in the Ink & Ashes series, and theirs was full of angst and heart gripping emotions.
Lyric was heartbroken by her ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend that even though she had moved away to college it still affected her just thinking about them. Until she meets Kai.
The same Kai who has slept with almost every girl on campus, Lyrics tries to stay away but the pull between them is to real, to strong. It's supposed to be no feelings and casual but it's anything but.
I freaking loved this book. Absolutely everything about this book! I definitely recommend 👌
January 2, 2026
Alright read, decent writing. FMC was uptight and annoyingly cautious. MMC was just kinda...bland. Beyond being "gorgeous" I don't really see what was appealing about him. Overall, I was waiting for some big reveal about his commitment issues, but it was very anti-climatic. Maybe would try author again with different types of characters
February 25, 2025
Melissa Toppen is one of my favorite authors, and I enjoyed the start to this series with the story of Kai and Lyric. It was a pretty straightforward college romance with a tough guy and a girl without a lot of experience who met and started off hot. There are a lot of layers to Kai and what makes him the type of guy that he is, rough around the edges, no commitment, etc., but of course he finds Lyric and she is the one to change all of that. I am looking forward to reading the other two stories in the series and getting to know her friends Maisie and Char better as well. Solid start to the series.
March 7, 2025
What an incredible story. I was hooked from page 1. Love the characters and the chemistry between Kai & Lyric. So excited for the next book in this series. Need more from this exciting group of characters.
February 21, 2025
This was truly an incredible read. Kai and Lyric's story had me glued to the pages and falling head over heels hard. My heart seriously ached for each of these characters because they each have some painful baggage. The chemistry is off the charts and the burn is slow but believe me, you will have no problem feeling the sweet sizzle that simmers underneath every single interaction this couple shares whether they are fighting or flirting. An awesome start to this new series that I cannot wait to read more of.
December 6, 2025
This book made me miss sleep. I read it in two sittings. I felt feelings and was thrown back to when I was 18-19 years old and was feeling so much and how big everything was in that small world I lived in. I think this book was spot on some of the feelings myself would have felt and I can relate to both the FMC and the MMC.
A strong four star read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A strong four star read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 29, 2025
Great story that kept me turning the pages!!
Ink and Stardust
By: Melissa Toppen
((Book one in Ink and Ashes))
(I always take notes, then write my review, so that’s how this one is.)
1. I love the epigraph! “Stardust often symbolizes something magical, dreamy, or enchanting between two people. It evokes the idea of a connection that's almost otherworldly—something so special and rare that it feels as though it’s touched by the universe itself.”
2. This should be told to every lady from the time she hits high school… men too because it does happen to men!! But this is very important and so true! “Don’t set your drink down for any reason. Don’t accept a drink from anyone who isn’t me. And don’t leave the main areas of the house. The last thing you want is to find yourself in a room with a drunk stranger who thinks no means yes.” (pg. 10)
3. I actually had his image in my mind while reading the description of Kai. If you’re a 90s baby, then you know how hot he was back then!! I was only 10 in 96, but he was one of my celeb crushes in my pre teen years! “Think Skeet Ulrich circa 1996—“ (pg. 13)
4. I love all of the characters names and the diversity. Each one is described very well. I can envision them easily.
5. I love Lyric’s strength in this part. “You can want me all you want.” I look him straight in the eyes. “But unless you earn me, you can’t have me.” (pg. 62)
6. Oohhh growl 🥵 I love a protective a possessive man! “Only this time, you fucked with something that belongs to me.” (pg. 110) and ““In case I didn’t make myself clear...” I don’t even realize Kai’s moved until he’s in front of me. “Mine.”” (pg. 111)
7. I love this! Every person should know what they deserve! “How pathetic, to be so desperate for a man that you’ll settle for the scraps of bread he’ll throw your way instead of the five-course meal you deserve to be served.” (pg. 116)
8. I love the quotes throughout this book. I’ve highlighted so much already, but this definitely stood out to me. “Sometimes, we just have to lift our hands and let fate take the wheel and hope it doesn’t run us straight off a freaking cliff in the end.” (pg. 152 and 153)
9. Ugh! My disappointment! I honestly thought that Char was talking to River. ““Wait, you’re talking to Conner Evans?”” (pg. 238) I felt it in my gut that it was River that she was talking about. Such a huge bummer!!
🩷🖤🩷🖤🩷🖤🩷🖤🩷🖤
I really enjoyed this book!! This was the fist time I’ve read anything by this author. The title and cover of the book caught my eye, then I read the summary and liked it as well.
All of the characters are written very well. The details are shown wonderfully, I love how they grow and flow into the story, and the side characters are even great.
I love how normal Lyric is. She’s not one of those popular ladies that’s in many books. And Kai…oh my goodness 🥵 he’s that dream guy that’s in an awesome book or movie. I played this book in my mind like a movie, so it’s written very well.
Now that I’ve read all three, this one is definitely my fave. Also as much as I love all the characters, Lyric is my favorite of the ladies and Kai is my favorite of the guys. This series is great and since I love physical books and plan to read these over and over, I’m gonna buy the books. This was the first time I’ve read anything by Melissa Toppen and she’s such a great writer. The story pulled me in and I fell in love with Lyric and Kai!
I really enjoyed all the books. The romance was sweet, steamy parts were hot, and the overall story is really interesting. I would love for this series to continue, so needless to say I recommend reading this one as well as the next two in the Ink and Ashes series!
Ink and Stardust
By: Melissa Toppen
((Book one in Ink and Ashes))
(I always take notes, then write my review, so that’s how this one is.)
1. I love the epigraph! “Stardust often symbolizes something magical, dreamy, or enchanting between two people. It evokes the idea of a connection that's almost otherworldly—something so special and rare that it feels as though it’s touched by the universe itself.”
2. This should be told to every lady from the time she hits high school… men too because it does happen to men!! But this is very important and so true! “Don’t set your drink down for any reason. Don’t accept a drink from anyone who isn’t me. And don’t leave the main areas of the house. The last thing you want is to find yourself in a room with a drunk stranger who thinks no means yes.” (pg. 10)
3. I actually had his image in my mind while reading the description of Kai. If you’re a 90s baby, then you know how hot he was back then!! I was only 10 in 96, but he was one of my celeb crushes in my pre teen years! “Think Skeet Ulrich circa 1996—“ (pg. 13)
4. I love all of the characters names and the diversity. Each one is described very well. I can envision them easily.
5. I love Lyric’s strength in this part. “You can want me all you want.” I look him straight in the eyes. “But unless you earn me, you can’t have me.” (pg. 62)
6. Oohhh growl 🥵 I love a protective a possessive man! “Only this time, you fucked with something that belongs to me.” (pg. 110) and ““In case I didn’t make myself clear...” I don’t even realize Kai’s moved until he’s in front of me. “Mine.”” (pg. 111)
7. I love this! Every person should know what they deserve! “How pathetic, to be so desperate for a man that you’ll settle for the scraps of bread he’ll throw your way instead of the five-course meal you deserve to be served.” (pg. 116)
8. I love the quotes throughout this book. I’ve highlighted so much already, but this definitely stood out to me. “Sometimes, we just have to lift our hands and let fate take the wheel and hope it doesn’t run us straight off a freaking cliff in the end.” (pg. 152 and 153)
9. Ugh! My disappointment! I honestly thought that Char was talking to River. ““Wait, you’re talking to Conner Evans?”” (pg. 238) I felt it in my gut that it was River that she was talking about. Such a huge bummer!!
🩷🖤🩷🖤🩷🖤🩷🖤🩷🖤
I really enjoyed this book!! This was the fist time I’ve read anything by this author. The title and cover of the book caught my eye, then I read the summary and liked it as well.
All of the characters are written very well. The details are shown wonderfully, I love how they grow and flow into the story, and the side characters are even great.
I love how normal Lyric is. She’s not one of those popular ladies that’s in many books. And Kai…oh my goodness 🥵 he’s that dream guy that’s in an awesome book or movie. I played this book in my mind like a movie, so it’s written very well.
Now that I’ve read all three, this one is definitely my fave. Also as much as I love all the characters, Lyric is my favorite of the ladies and Kai is my favorite of the guys. This series is great and since I love physical books and plan to read these over and over, I’m gonna buy the books. This was the first time I’ve read anything by Melissa Toppen and she’s such a great writer. The story pulled me in and I fell in love with Lyric and Kai!
I really enjoyed all the books. The romance was sweet, steamy parts were hot, and the overall story is really interesting. I would love for this series to continue, so needless to say I recommend reading this one as well as the next two in the Ink and Ashes series!
June 26, 2025
Kia & Lyric’s Story 💔🎓❤️
The beginning of this book starts with a bang! 💥 I was immediately heartbroken for our FMC (female main character) — poor Lyric 💔. She faces betrayal from not just one, but two people closest to her, and it honestly made me want to cry right along with her 😢. The only silver lining? She’s heading off to college for a fresh start. 🎓✨
The story follows Lyric’s first year of college and how she connects with our MMC (male main character), Kai 😍. The plot is simple but engaging, with just enough back-and-forth to keep things interesting 📚. And yes — prepare yourself for that classic third-act breakup 💔… but don’t worry, things turn around in the end 🥹💞.
One of the things I loved most was how this book ties into the trilogy — all centered around three college roommates, each getting their own story. And can I just say — I love college romance! 💕📖 It’s one of my absolute favorite genres.
Both Lyric and Kai were lovable in their own ways. Kai’s backstory, especially involving his mom, really tugged at my heartstrings 😢. He may be a little broken and jaded, but the way he opens up and grows with Lyric is just beautiful ❤️. Plus, the way he treats his grandma? 🥹 10/10, I’m swooning.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It flowed well, had great emotional beats, and left me excited to dive into the next two books featuring Lyric’s roommates 📚💫.
🌟🌟🌟✨ It’s worth three and a half beautiful stars!
Happy reading, everyone! XOXO 😘📖✨
The beginning of this book starts with a bang! 💥 I was immediately heartbroken for our FMC (female main character) — poor Lyric 💔. She faces betrayal from not just one, but two people closest to her, and it honestly made me want to cry right along with her 😢. The only silver lining? She’s heading off to college for a fresh start. 🎓✨
The story follows Lyric’s first year of college and how she connects with our MMC (male main character), Kai 😍. The plot is simple but engaging, with just enough back-and-forth to keep things interesting 📚. And yes — prepare yourself for that classic third-act breakup 💔… but don’t worry, things turn around in the end 🥹💞.
One of the things I loved most was how this book ties into the trilogy — all centered around three college roommates, each getting their own story. And can I just say — I love college romance! 💕📖 It’s one of my absolute favorite genres.
Both Lyric and Kai were lovable in their own ways. Kai’s backstory, especially involving his mom, really tugged at my heartstrings 😢. He may be a little broken and jaded, but the way he opens up and grows with Lyric is just beautiful ❤️. Plus, the way he treats his grandma? 🥹 10/10, I’m swooning.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It flowed well, had great emotional beats, and left me excited to dive into the next two books featuring Lyric’s roommates 📚💫.
🌟🌟🌟✨ It’s worth three and a half beautiful stars!
Happy reading, everyone! XOXO 😘📖✨
June 28, 2025
3.00 Stars
Ink & Stardust wasn't what I expected. I assumed it would be your typical college bully taunting, degrading and slowly disassembling his prey. That couldn't be farther from the truth.
In all honesty, Kia had me with his first look, his first word and the delicious description the author wrote with such attention to detail. Is he broken? Well most bad boys in books are, but probably not the way you are thinking.
Lyric, well she was exactly what I envisioned. Hurt and broken feeling like life would never be the same. Devasted at her choices, her trust in people and the change to her future plans it seems that her life has been turned upside down.
Would I define this book as a bully romance after having read it? Absolutely not.
I would define Ink and Stardust as a compelling love story. A story that slowly unravels the deepest of secrets and is filled with intense, sensual, hot as hell sex.
The sub-characters in this story are written with extreme attention to detail giving the reader a well rounded picture of who and what they are. The family aspect intertwines effortlessly providing a clearer aspect of who each character really is.
The overall plot line flows easily throughout the book and all loose ends are tied up neatly at the end of the story.
The writing style seems effortless and make the reading experience a fast paced enjoyable read.
Ink & Stardust wasn't what I expected. I assumed it would be your typical college bully taunting, degrading and slowly disassembling his prey. That couldn't be farther from the truth.
In all honesty, Kia had me with his first look, his first word and the delicious description the author wrote with such attention to detail. Is he broken? Well most bad boys in books are, but probably not the way you are thinking.
Lyric, well she was exactly what I envisioned. Hurt and broken feeling like life would never be the same. Devasted at her choices, her trust in people and the change to her future plans it seems that her life has been turned upside down.
Would I define this book as a bully romance after having read it? Absolutely not.
I would define Ink and Stardust as a compelling love story. A story that slowly unravels the deepest of secrets and is filled with intense, sensual, hot as hell sex.
The sub-characters in this story are written with extreme attention to detail giving the reader a well rounded picture of who and what they are. The family aspect intertwines effortlessly providing a clearer aspect of who each character really is.
The overall plot line flows easily throughout the book and all loose ends are tied up neatly at the end of the story.
The writing style seems effortless and make the reading experience a fast paced enjoyable read.
February 21, 2025
Melissa Topeen did not disappoint with Ink & Stardust, the first book in her Ink & Ashes college romance series. I still have stars in my eyes after diving into this captivating and enchanting read. If you love a good college romance, this one is a must—Lyric and Kai’s story is simply unforgettable.
At first glance, it could seem like the familiar "bad boy meets good girl" trope, but trust me, this book is so much more. While that backdrop exists, the similarities end there. Topeen delivers a story with a deep emotional hook. Lyric’s journey begins after a painful betrayal forces her to switch colleges. But with new beginnings come new friendships, and Lyric’s roommates are absolute gems—full of banter, support, and that found-family vibe we all love.
Peeling back Kai’s layers was one of the highlights of this story. His complicated past, especially the bond with his grandmother, adds depth and vulnerability that made me root for him. And while Lyric and Kai may start as friends with benefits, it’s obvious from the start that there’s no way that arrangement was going to stay casual. The slow burn leading into something more had me hooked!
Lyric’s family dynamics, especially her close relationship with her brother, brought even more richness to the story. And can we talk about the chemistry? The passion between Lyric and Kai was off the charts! 🔥
Ink & Stardust is a must-read for anyone who loves emotionally charged college romances with layered characters, sizzling chemistry, and heartfelt connections. A phenomenal start to the Ink & Ashes series—I can’t wait for more!
At first glance, it could seem like the familiar "bad boy meets good girl" trope, but trust me, this book is so much more. While that backdrop exists, the similarities end there. Topeen delivers a story with a deep emotional hook. Lyric’s journey begins after a painful betrayal forces her to switch colleges. But with new beginnings come new friendships, and Lyric’s roommates are absolute gems—full of banter, support, and that found-family vibe we all love.
Peeling back Kai’s layers was one of the highlights of this story. His complicated past, especially the bond with his grandmother, adds depth and vulnerability that made me root for him. And while Lyric and Kai may start as friends with benefits, it’s obvious from the start that there’s no way that arrangement was going to stay casual. The slow burn leading into something more had me hooked!
Lyric’s family dynamics, especially her close relationship with her brother, brought even more richness to the story. And can we talk about the chemistry? The passion between Lyric and Kai was off the charts! 🔥
Ink & Stardust is a must-read for anyone who loves emotionally charged college romances with layered characters, sizzling chemistry, and heartfelt connections. A phenomenal start to the Ink & Ashes series—I can’t wait for more!
February 14, 2025
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
🩶college romance
💜 innocent/ naive FMC
🩶good girl x bad boy
💜opposite attract
🩶touch her and die vibes
💜overcoming past trauma/ anxiety
Ink and Stardust is book 1 in the brand new series, Ink and Ashes , from author Melissa Toppen. I absolutely loved Lyric and Kai , our two main characters.
Lyric , Aka “ Converse” is our FMC , is a freshman in college and had her life altered before college, when she was betrayed by two people close to her. So what does she do … a 360 , decides to go to college elsewhere and start fresh…where she meets Kai soon after.
Kai, is our MMC, is your typical tattooed bad boy… or is he? Kai doesn’t do relationships but the minute he meets Lyric he’s drawn to her like never before. Kai doesn’t open up to many people about his past and finds himself, not only drawn to Lyric, but opening up and constantly wanting to be around her.
Both Kai and Lyric had to be willing to open themselves up to love in order to move past their circumstances and to grow and to live and love.
This was a shorter read, fairly fast paced and like any Melissa book can do does get u a bit in your feels. Can’t wait to see what the rest of the series will be like as I really enjoyed this first book. Great start to this new series.
Tropes:
🩶college romance
💜 innocent/ naive FMC
🩶good girl x bad boy
💜opposite attract
🩶touch her and die vibes
💜overcoming past trauma/ anxiety
Ink and Stardust is book 1 in the brand new series, Ink and Ashes , from author Melissa Toppen. I absolutely loved Lyric and Kai , our two main characters.
Lyric , Aka “ Converse” is our FMC , is a freshman in college and had her life altered before college, when she was betrayed by two people close to her. So what does she do … a 360 , decides to go to college elsewhere and start fresh…where she meets Kai soon after.
Kai, is our MMC, is your typical tattooed bad boy… or is he? Kai doesn’t do relationships but the minute he meets Lyric he’s drawn to her like never before. Kai doesn’t open up to many people about his past and finds himself, not only drawn to Lyric, but opening up and constantly wanting to be around her.
Both Kai and Lyric had to be willing to open themselves up to love in order to move past their circumstances and to grow and to live and love.
This was a shorter read, fairly fast paced and like any Melissa book can do does get u a bit in your feels. Can’t wait to see what the rest of the series will be like as I really enjoyed this first book. Great start to this new series.
July 2, 2025
Ink and Stardust is the first book I've read by Melissa Topen, and oh, man, am I obsessed. I devoured this book in one day and might have lost a few hours of sleep to finish it. Totally worth it IMO. The storyline was page-turning and had my heart breaking and mending, my stomach drop, and my heart rate picked up a few times. I loved the edge-of-the-seat anticipation waiting to see what would happen next. The characters were complex and had heartbreaking backstories. This book is a contemporary college romance and is filled with drama, heartbreak, angst, and spice.
In the beginning, Lyric is what she feels is broken by a devastating discovery. I loved her growth and the backbone she discovered in this book. She was strong, determined, and passionate. I also am envious of her Converse collection!!! I really connected with her shoe collection. Converse are my favorite shoes!!! Kai was guarded, a player, and the campus heartbreaker. I loved their intense chemistry. They had a frenemies'-to-lovers slow-burning romance. They were the fuse about to light the powder keg, and when it blew, it was beautiful. I can't wait for Cinder and Secrets to get Charlotte's story. 4.5 stars- By Brooke
In the beginning, Lyric is what she feels is broken by a devastating discovery. I loved her growth and the backbone she discovered in this book. She was strong, determined, and passionate. I also am envious of her Converse collection!!! I really connected with her shoe collection. Converse are my favorite shoes!!! Kai was guarded, a player, and the campus heartbreaker. I loved their intense chemistry. They had a frenemies'-to-lovers slow-burning romance. They were the fuse about to light the powder keg, and when it blew, it was beautiful. I can't wait for Cinder and Secrets to get Charlotte's story. 4.5 stars- By Brooke
July 2, 2025
Ink and Stardust is the first book I've read by Melissa Topen, and oh, man, am I obsessed. I devoured this book in one day and might have lost a few hours of sleep to finish it. Totally worth it IMO. The storyline was page-turning and had my heart breaking and mending, my stomach drop, and my heart rate picked up a few times. I loved the edge-of-the-seat anticipation waiting to see what would happen next. The characters were complex and had heartbreaking backstories. This book is a contemporary college romance and is filled with drama, heartbreak, angst, and spice.
In the beginning, Lyric is what she feels is broken by a devastating discovery. I loved her growth and the backbone she discovered in this book. She was strong, determined, and passionate. I also am envious of her Converse collection!!! I really connected with her shoe collection. Converse are my favorite shoes!!! Kai was guarded, a player, and the campus heartbreaker. I loved their intense chemistry. They had a kinda frienemies-to-lovers slow-burning romance. They were the fuse about to light the powder keg, and when it blew, it was beautiful. I can't wait for Cinder and Secrets to get Charlotte's story.
In the beginning, Lyric is what she feels is broken by a devastating discovery. I loved her growth and the backbone she discovered in this book. She was strong, determined, and passionate. I also am envious of her Converse collection!!! I really connected with her shoe collection. Converse are my favorite shoes!!! Kai was guarded, a player, and the campus heartbreaker. I loved their intense chemistry. They had a kinda frienemies-to-lovers slow-burning romance. They were the fuse about to light the powder keg, and when it blew, it was beautiful. I can't wait for Cinder and Secrets to get Charlotte's story.
February 19, 2025
Ink and Stardust is a fantastic read. I loved this so much. This is book 1 out of 3 and I'm so in love with all the characters already. This is Lyric and Kai's story and you are going to love these 2 somewhat broken souls. Lyric is not looking for a relationship since her last one ended badly. She's more of a good two shoes who needs a little shake up and her roommates are more than willing to give her a push. Kai doesn't do relationships and comes off as a womanizer but he is more than that. The deeper you dig into Kai as he opens up the more you will fall hard for him. Your heart goes out to him with everything he has gone through. You will love the banter and the chemistry between Kai and Lyric so much. They bring out a different side of each other and push each other for things neither knew they wanted. Lyric and Kai are perfect together. I cannot wait for Charlotte and Maisie (Lyrics roommates) to find there match in their books too. This gives you the feels in the best possible way. Go one click this today.
February 21, 2025
There are no words just no perfect words that could even come close to describing how much I freaking loved Ink & Stardust!!!! It truly was and is perfection in every single way !! Oh how Kai and Lyric just grabbed onto my heart so tightly and did not let go . Especially Lyric the way she found out her Ex Boyfriend was cheating on her - the emotional toll it took on her life . But all that is about to change!!! She’s moved away to college , she now has the ability to star anew . What she never saw coming was Kai and to say he turns everything on its axis would be a huge understatement . Kai shows Lyric that good guys still do exist. Sure Kai has a reputation of being a player so our girl Lyric tries her hardest to resist the attraction . But as we get to know Kai we quickly see there is so much more to him that not everyone gets the privilege of seeing . What starts off as casual very quickly turns into so much more . And phew was it one emotional rollercoaster of a story
February 27, 2025
I've been a fan of Melissa's for a long time and always look forward to her books. This is a college themed story of Lyric and Kai. Lyric is broken after catching er boyfriend of four years and her best friend having sex. She goes to a college out of state instead of the one she planned on going with the cheaters. She has no confidence but meeting her new roommates gives her the push to join the college life. She meets bad boy, womanizer Kai at a party, doesn't like him but is crazy attracted to him. Kai is broken in his own way and warns Lyric he will break her heart, he doesn't stay long with anyone. They start a "casual" relationship but feelings are caught and causes headache. Loved the story and even the secondary characters have a story which will be further told in the next two books!
February 21, 2025
Another AMAZING 5 star read from this amazing author. If there is any author out there that I go into her books blindly, she's the one. She never disappoints and Ink and Stardust is no different. I fell in love from the very start with Lyric, Kai, and all the other characters. This college romance had all the right feels to it. Melissa's writing always draws you in to the point of no coming up for air until that very last page. I loved Lyric and Kai's story so much. Their chemistry is off the charts HOT! To my surprise there are 2 more books after this one and I freaking can't wait to get my hands on the others. If you are looking for a great read, this is the one that you don't want to miss out on. I promise you that you will not be disappointed.
Happy Reading Everyone!!!
Happy Reading Everyone!!!
February 22, 2025
College romance
Good girl, bad boy
Opposites
Possessive MMC
Slow burn
Past Trauma
Main characters
Kai and Lyric
First of a new series
Kai and Lyric have great chemistry. They have some trials before their HEA. They were both great characters with a lot of hurt in their pasts.
Lyric changed schools after her ex betrayed her. She was starting over. She meetd a new people. They turn out to be a pretty special group of friends. They are just what she needs.
Kai had his own baggage. He gives off anti relationship vibes. Tattooed and broody, he appears to be the typical bad boy. There is a lot more to this man and it makes him a little more attractive.
Entertaining with a good plot, wonderful characters with plenty of chemistry.
Good girl, bad boy
Opposites
Possessive MMC
Slow burn
Past Trauma
Main characters
Kai and Lyric
First of a new series
Kai and Lyric have great chemistry. They have some trials before their HEA. They were both great characters with a lot of hurt in their pasts.
Lyric changed schools after her ex betrayed her. She was starting over. She meetd a new people. They turn out to be a pretty special group of friends. They are just what she needs.
Kai had his own baggage. He gives off anti relationship vibes. Tattooed and broody, he appears to be the typical bad boy. There is a lot more to this man and it makes him a little more attractive.
Entertaining with a good plot, wonderful characters with plenty of chemistry.
February 22, 2025
After being betrayed by the two people she should have been able to trust Lyric needs a fresh start and that begins with a different college. She isn’t looking for love but maybe a casual relationship with a man who appears to be her complete opposite might be exactly what she needs.
Kai may appear to be the man you don’t bring home to your family but appearances can be deceiving. Even though he doesn’t believe he is looking for a relationship he is drawn to Lyric in a way that he never expected and the more we learn about this intriguing man the more we want to know.
The characters draw you in as they take you on an emotional and romantic journey as they find what they didn’t know they were looking for in each other.
Kai may appear to be the man you don’t bring home to your family but appearances can be deceiving. Even though he doesn’t believe he is looking for a relationship he is drawn to Lyric in a way that he never expected and the more we learn about this intriguing man the more we want to know.
The characters draw you in as they take you on an emotional and romantic journey as they find what they didn’t know they were looking for in each other.
March 4, 2025
Being betrayed by your best friend and boyfriend will most likely not trust anyone so easily. Lyric changes colleges and wants a fresh start. Experiencing college life has been tough keeping to herself, especially having a roommate who wants to have the whole fun enjoyment college night ife. Kai is standoffish, but also can't keep his distance from Lyric, you obviously see these two gravitate towards each other. The chemistry, the pull, their budding friendship and falling for each other even though that is not in the cards He believes he isn't built for a relationship, but he's so different with Lyric. I really enjoyed their story. The way the authro describes their college night life, the parties, the push and pull between these two, it was just right.
February 21, 2025
This is the first in a new series, and what an awesome beginning Kai and Lyric’s story is!
Lyric finds her boyfriend cheating with her best friend, and she ends up changing colleges. Kai is the campus womanizer and self-proclaimed bad boy, and he becomes the bane of Lyric’s existence.
This is a beautifully written story which is a slow burn, easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, intrigue, tad angst, betrayal, humor, witty banter, revelations, vulnerability, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, endearing, and heartfelt, college romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Lyric finds her boyfriend cheating with her best friend, and she ends up changing colleges. Kai is the campus womanizer and self-proclaimed bad boy, and he becomes the bane of Lyric’s existence.
This is a beautifully written story which is a slow burn, easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, intrigue, tad angst, betrayal, humor, witty banter, revelations, vulnerability, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, endearing, and heartfelt, college romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 24, 2025
4.5 Off to a Great Series Start Stars...
Opposites attract? Absolutely, Kai and Lyric are proof of that in this short, to the point story with all the "feels". Kai is the undercover good guy with a beautiful and intriguing bad boy vibe. I loved that Lyric was real; her issues, her feelings and her relationships. I enjoyed watching them both grow from their past hurts, although vastly different circumstances. This one definitely had me reading late into the night, but it was worth it. I can't wait for more in the Ink & Ashes series, Charlotte and Maisie were amazing supporting characters in this one, so I know their stories will be epic.
Opposites attract? Absolutely, Kai and Lyric are proof of that in this short, to the point story with all the "feels". Kai is the undercover good guy with a beautiful and intriguing bad boy vibe. I loved that Lyric was real; her issues, her feelings and her relationships. I enjoyed watching them both grow from their past hurts, although vastly different circumstances. This one definitely had me reading late into the night, but it was worth it. I can't wait for more in the Ink & Ashes series, Charlotte and Maisie were amazing supporting characters in this one, so I know their stories will be epic.
March 28, 2025
I loved this start to this new series.. Lyric & Kai are both in college and meet one night a party. Both are broken and really don’t trust very well. From the get go Lyric made an impression on Kai one he fought hard to ignore but failed… There is more going on in this book other than Keir story. The secondary characters also play a massive part and it’s like all their stories are going to stem from this point. I enjoyed watching Lyric & Kai’s relationship blossom when they hurt/loved etc I felt it and also loved all the drama from her friends. I can’t wait for the next book.
Reviewed by Lesley
Reviewed by Lesley
February 9, 2025
What a great start to a new series, I absolutely devoired this read once I started. Kai and Lyric, were absolutely the best together. Both had some serious heart ache issues in the past, him losing his mom and her losing a previous bf of 4 years. As much as he fought the attraction, it exploded when they finally got together. She's the good girl, never done anything bad before, and he's the bad boy that seems so closed off. What could go wrong right? Can not wait to read the other books in this series, I loved each character!
March 27, 2025
I loved this start to this new series.. Lyric & Kai are both in college and meet one night a party. Both are broken and really don’t trust very well. From the get go Lyric made an impression on Kai one he fought hard to ignore but failed… There is more going on in this book other than Keir story. The secondary characters also play a massive part and it’s like all their stories are going to stem from this point. I enjoyed watching Lyric & Kai’s relationship blossom when they hurt/loved etc I felt it and also loved all the drama from her friends. I can’t wait for the next book.
November 11, 2025
Such a great read!!
Ink & Stardust is the first book in Melissa Toppen’s Ink & Ashes series. It introduces us to several characters at a university in Virginia, notably Lyric and Kai. I loved all of these characters! They were so relatable and quirky and fun! This story was so good - so much jealousy, drama, and angst, which is the perfect recipe for an incredible story to me. The writing was also on point. I’m definitely looking forward to reading Charlotte and Maisie’s stories.
Ink & Stardust is the first book in Melissa Toppen’s Ink & Ashes series. It introduces us to several characters at a university in Virginia, notably Lyric and Kai. I loved all of these characters! They were so relatable and quirky and fun! This story was so good - so much jealousy, drama, and angst, which is the perfect recipe for an incredible story to me. The writing was also on point. I’m definitely looking forward to reading Charlotte and Maisie’s stories.
February 23, 2025
What a great beginning to the Ink & Ashes series. I was drawn in from the very first chapter. Kai and Lyric’s story is so intense and so heartbreaking, at times. I just knew what she was going to walk into when she got off that elevator!! But, it was all for the best. I just loved this story. It was so well written. I’m looking forward to reading more of their story in Cinder and Secrets.
February 25, 2025
One of her best stories!
I have enjoyed Melissa Toppen's books for a while now. TEN HOURS and WHAT COMES AFTER have been my favorites and set the bar high. This book definitely reached that bar and is now another favorite. I was immersed into the story, feeling every emotion. When I had to put the book down, it frustrated me. I will be reading this again when I can sit and eead it through.
I have enjoyed Melissa Toppen's books for a while now. TEN HOURS and WHAT COMES AFTER have been my favorites and set the bar high. This book definitely reached that bar and is now another favorite. I was immersed into the story, feeling every emotion. When I had to put the book down, it frustrated me. I will be reading this again when I can sit and eead it through.
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