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*** USA Today Bestseller - New Adult Contemporary Romance***
From USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Jo Raven comes the third installment in the Inked Brotherhood series which began with ASHER.
They call me Zen-man, the cool-headed one, the protector. I keep an eye out for everyone, take them in, find them homes. They think I’m the calm and collected one, the self-assured one, the one who knows the way. They think they see me. They think they know me.
But they’re all wrong, because inside I’m broken. I have a jagged hole in my soul I can’t fix, a festering blackness. I’ve been to the pits of hell, and nobody comes back unscathed. Life in foster care f*cked me up, and now a thread is all that’s holding me together.
So I sleep around and never date, keeping chicks away. One day I’ll snap, and when I do, there’s no telling who I might take down with me.
All the same, there’s this one girl who won’t be scared away. Dakota. She’s hot, and I won’t deny I want her. But she keeps coming back, pushing me, trying to get me to talk, to open up to her.
She has no idea she’s playing with fire. When the demons come, she’d better be far away from me, just like everyone else.
Standalone novel. No cliffhanger.
* Mature readers only. Not intended for young readers.*
Inked Brotherhood
Five boys brought together by fate. Five young men trying to overcome their troubled pasts. Five tattoos marking them as a brotherhood built on tragedy. Will they find understanding and rise above the pain?
Five girls tied by friendship. Five young women fighting their own demons. Five lives laced with sorrow. Will they be strong enough to save the men they love and make them happy?
The series comprises five interconnected, stand-alone Asher, Tyler, Zane, Dylan and Rafe.
Kiss me Goodbye, a short prequel to ASHER, is FREE!!
Next is DYLAN, book 4 in the series.
From USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Jo Raven comes the third installment in the Inked Brotherhood series which began with ASHER.
They call me Zen-man, the cool-headed one, the protector. I keep an eye out for everyone, take them in, find them homes. They think I’m the calm and collected one, the self-assured one, the one who knows the way. They think they see me. They think they know me.
But they’re all wrong, because inside I’m broken. I have a jagged hole in my soul I can’t fix, a festering blackness. I’ve been to the pits of hell, and nobody comes back unscathed. Life in foster care f*cked me up, and now a thread is all that’s holding me together.
So I sleep around and never date, keeping chicks away. One day I’ll snap, and when I do, there’s no telling who I might take down with me.
All the same, there’s this one girl who won’t be scared away. Dakota. She’s hot, and I won’t deny I want her. But she keeps coming back, pushing me, trying to get me to talk, to open up to her.
She has no idea she’s playing with fire. When the demons come, she’d better be far away from me, just like everyone else.
Standalone novel. No cliffhanger.
* Mature readers only. Not intended for young readers.*
Inked Brotherhood
Five boys brought together by fate. Five young men trying to overcome their troubled pasts. Five tattoos marking them as a brotherhood built on tragedy. Will they find understanding and rise above the pain?
Five girls tied by friendship. Five young women fighting their own demons. Five lives laced with sorrow. Will they be strong enough to save the men they love and make them happy?
The series comprises five interconnected, stand-alone Asher, Tyler, Zane, Dylan and Rafe.
Kiss me Goodbye, a short prequel to ASHER, is FREE!!
Next is DYLAN, book 4 in the series.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2014
271 people are currently reading
2632 people want to read
About the author
Jo Raven
49 books2,782 followersBe the first to get your hands on Jo Raven’s new releases & offers, giveaways, previews, and more by signing up here ▶ http://bit.ly/1CTNTHM
Jo Raven is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, best known for her series Inked Brotherhood and Damage Control. She writes edgy, contemporary New Adult romance with sexy bad boys and strong-willed heroines. She writes about MME fighters and tattoo artists, dark pasts that bleed into the present, loyalty and raw emotion. Add to that breathtaking suspense, super-hot sex scenes and a happy ending, and you have a Jo Raven® story.
Meet Jo Raven online – on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJoRaven), chat with her on Twitter (@AuthorJoRaven) and join her readers group for sneak previews of her covers and stories (http://on.fb.me/1K2LvzO).
Jo Raven is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, best known for her series Inked Brotherhood and Damage Control. She writes edgy, contemporary New Adult romance with sexy bad boys and strong-willed heroines. She writes about MME fighters and tattoo artists, dark pasts that bleed into the present, loyalty and raw emotion. Add to that breathtaking suspense, super-hot sex scenes and a happy ending, and you have a Jo Raven® story.
Meet Jo Raven online – on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJoRaven), chat with her on Twitter (@AuthorJoRaven) and join her readers group for sneak previews of her covers and stories (http://on.fb.me/1K2LvzO).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
June 17, 2018
i am going to write a short review. zane is..... luke warm. i am expecting to be hot. but its luke warm. i am kind of bored listening to the audiobook.
3 stars
3 stars
July 24, 2017
Read it long time ago!
review when I find more time :)
I loved Zane, the character that was broken and scarred deeply yb the events from his past and a girl who pushed him to deal and cope with his demons, while finding the anchor in her arms!
review when I find more time :)
I loved Zane, the character that was broken and scarred deeply yb the events from his past and a girl who pushed him to deal and cope with his demons, while finding the anchor in her arms!
November 17, 2014
Another great addition to the Inked Brotherhood. I have loved Zane from first seeing him in Asher's story, and had no idea his demons were as bad as they were. My heart broke for what he had endured, yet he was always there for everyone else.
Dakota is a fabulous h, no bullshit, no unnecessary drama - pure gold. Given when she endured she so deserved her happy.
Why not 5 stars? Their back stories needed more fleshing out, I NEEDED this info and felt a bit let down that it was not focused upon more. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will definitely be reading Dylan's and Rafe's books.
Dakota is a fabulous h, no bullshit, no unnecessary drama - pure gold. Given when she endured she so deserved her happy.
Why not 5 stars? Their back stories needed more fleshing out, I NEEDED this info and felt a bit let down that it was not focused upon more. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will definitely be reading Dylan's and Rafe's books.
October 25, 2014
I received an ARC from Jo Raven. I'm lucky like that. ;)
What can I tell you...
Add it to your TBR asap. I really love this series and each book is getting better. At least, that's how I feel.
Zane made me feel strongly. I ached for him, feared for him and all the while I was completely caught in his story, not just reading, but living the building romance between him and Dakota.
And if you want to read some hot scenes, you must know that Jo knows what she's doing! With the hot tattooed artist Zane, pierced and very much broken, it reaches new heights.
What I enjoyed the most is even though this story is dark, there's also that hope not that out of reach thanks to a tight knit group of friends and a newfound love. Perfect mix!
So you get it, I'm very much in love with this new installment and I'm dying to read the next one.
What can I tell you...
Add it to your TBR asap. I really love this series and each book is getting better. At least, that's how I feel.
Zane made me feel strongly. I ached for him, feared for him and all the while I was completely caught in his story, not just reading, but living the building romance between him and Dakota.
And if you want to read some hot scenes, you must know that Jo knows what she's doing! With the hot tattooed artist Zane, pierced and very much broken, it reaches new heights.
What I enjoyed the most is even though this story is dark, there's also that hope not that out of reach thanks to a tight knit group of friends and a newfound love. Perfect mix!
So you get it, I'm very much in love with this new installment and I'm dying to read the next one.
November 7, 2014
Review to come...
June 30, 2015
I adore this series. I really find the books difficult reads as the characters are so damaged, but the stories always end in a HEA. Another great addition, Zane is a favourite.
May 30, 2017
ok
Read with Caveman (bonus).
Read with Caveman (bonus).
October 21, 2015
LOVE JO'S HEROINES
Five boys brought together by fate. Five young men trying to overcome their troubled pasts. Five tattoos marking them as a brotherhood built on tragedy.
Five girls tied by friendship. Five young women fighting their own demons. Five lives laced with sorrow. Will they be strong enough to save the men they love and make them happy?
Zen man the guy who normally holds the group together, offers the sound advice but his world is crashing down and this proud Alpha wont lean on anyone.
Tormented by his past, nightmares and reminders Zen-man needs someone to save him
Dakota is a take no shit girl and just what this Alpha needs to ground and rock his world
Love all these characters, brilliant series and box set coming soon
https://www.facebook.com/sizzlereads?...
Five boys brought together by fate. Five young men trying to overcome their troubled pasts. Five tattoos marking them as a brotherhood built on tragedy.
Five girls tied by friendship. Five young women fighting their own demons. Five lives laced with sorrow. Will they be strong enough to save the men they love and make them happy?
Zen man the guy who normally holds the group together, offers the sound advice but his world is crashing down and this proud Alpha wont lean on anyone.
Tormented by his past, nightmares and reminders Zen-man needs someone to save him
Dakota is a take no shit girl and just what this Alpha needs to ground and rock his world
Love all these characters, brilliant series and box set coming soon
https://www.facebook.com/sizzlereads?...
February 1, 2020
This was a new author to me, then I started reading first book in this series and I was hooked. But this book about Zane was the best of the best, it was EPICLY AWESOME!!!
I absolutely loved it, looooooooved it.
Zane is like a NA version of V from BDB. Or so he was on my head, they sure came from the same kind of crappy background.
I am pretty sure I am going to re-read this real soon. Yep, I am sure that's going to happen. Maybe read so BDB too.lol

5 stars.
I absolutely loved it, looooooooved it.
Zane is like a NA version of V from BDB. Or so he was on my head, they sure came from the same kind of crappy background.
I am pretty sure I am going to re-read this real soon. Yep, I am sure that's going to happen. Maybe read so BDB too.lol

5 stars.
June 30, 2017
I wanted to read Zane’s book since I met him in the first book of this series. Each man of the Inked Brotherhood is tattooed and damaged. Their pasts (and sometimes presents) are horrible and still affect their lives now. The men understand each other and find support with each other if someone ask for it.
This book is Zane and Dakota’s story. The man with the blue Mohawk who drinks a lot and the woman who keeps asking him to give her a tattoo. Zane likes Dakota and he wants her, but he thinks he doesn’t deserve her. Zane thinks is she’s pure and he doesn’t want to hurt her. I felt for Zane many times. His past is horrible and he could lose the most important person in his life. He doesn’t deal well with that. Zane slowly opens to Dakota and he finds comfort with her.
Dakota is the perfect woman for Zane. She’s patient and she doesn’t let him scare her away. She wants him. She’s always there for him. Dakota has been hurt recently and moved away. She has never told anyone that and it still haunts her sometimes.
I was rooting for Zane and Dakota to be together. They help each other move on. They are good for each other. I loved the last few chapters the most. I just wanted more scenes of only Dakota and Zane together. I love it when characters from the previous or future books of a series appear, but they appeared too much in this book. I also wouldn’t have minded it if I got to know more about Zane’s past.
This book is Zane and Dakota’s story. The man with the blue Mohawk who drinks a lot and the woman who keeps asking him to give her a tattoo. Zane likes Dakota and he wants her, but he thinks he doesn’t deserve her. Zane thinks is she’s pure and he doesn’t want to hurt her. I felt for Zane many times. His past is horrible and he could lose the most important person in his life. He doesn’t deal well with that. Zane slowly opens to Dakota and he finds comfort with her.
Dakota is the perfect woman for Zane. She’s patient and she doesn’t let him scare her away. She wants him. She’s always there for him. Dakota has been hurt recently and moved away. She has never told anyone that and it still haunts her sometimes.
I was rooting for Zane and Dakota to be together. They help each other move on. They are good for each other. I loved the last few chapters the most. I just wanted more scenes of only Dakota and Zane together. I love it when characters from the previous or future books of a series appear, but they appeared too much in this book. I also wouldn’t have minded it if I got to know more about Zane’s past.
January 29, 2017
"Zane" Inked Brotherhood #3 is by author Jo Raven.
Published: October 14, 2014
Read: October 15, 2014
Reread: November 2015
Reread: February 2016
My Rating: 5
Cover: 4.5
Standalone
Series: Inked Brotherhood: Kiss Me Goodbye: prequel to Asher #0.5; Asher; Tyler; Zane; What I want for Christmas: Zane and Dakota Short Story; Dylan; Rafe; and Inked Babies Epilogue
I can't get enough of Jo Raven's tortured bad boys. My heart breaks every time I read about one of them. Each book in this series guts me. My thoughts are always, 'this can't possibly get worse.' Jo Raven proves me wrong every time.
First I want to say that although I originally read this book when it first released in 2014, I have since reread it twice more. The Inked Brotherhood is one of those series for me that I reread in order to keep it fresh in my mind. I don't ever want to lose touch with these men. I know that sounds dorky and cheesy but if you've read any of this series you know what I mean.
Zane is the unofficial leader of the brotherhood. He is the one they go to for guidance. He always puts their needs before his own. But who does Zane talk to when the darkness threatens the little light he has left? That little bit of 'light' is Dakota. Still, Zane lets himself suffer; he won't burden her with his horrific past. A past that returns too often to haunt him.
Dakota is the perfect girl for Zane. She is tough on the outside with a soft heart and loyal soul. Dakota has demons of her own. And still, she wants nothing more than to help Zane be rid of his. While Zane keeps pushing her away, denying himself her beautiful heart and soul, Dakota pushes right back.
This is one of those dark stories you need to appreciate on your own. And once you learn about some of the horrors that Zane deals with, and what happens as a result of it, his happily ever after will be that much more satisfying.
Zane made me cry. This book also made me angry and stressed as well. Jo Raven's writing is rich in detail and complexity. All of the dialogue and inner monologue was believable. We get both Zane and Dakota's POVs. You'll feel like you're right thee with them.
All of the members of the 'brotherhood,' their girls and even some new characters (which will have a spinoff series; Damaged Boys) make appearances. The next book will be about Dylan and Tess. Then next is Rafe and Megan's story. After that is a full length epilogue called Inked Babies. I recommend reading this epilogue after you finished the series. It won't make sense otherwise. Not only will the epilogue give us insight into the near future for everyone, but Zane is in trouble again. His inner demons are out for blood and everyone will come together to help.
So if you are starting the series with Zane's book (they are all standalone with the exception of Inked Babies) I recommend you goi back and read Asher and Tyler before continuing.
Published: October 14, 2014
Read: October 15, 2014
Reread: November 2015
Reread: February 2016
My Rating: 5
Cover: 4.5
Standalone
Series: Inked Brotherhood: Kiss Me Goodbye: prequel to Asher #0.5; Asher; Tyler; Zane; What I want for Christmas: Zane and Dakota Short Story; Dylan; Rafe; and Inked Babies Epilogue
I can't get enough of Jo Raven's tortured bad boys. My heart breaks every time I read about one of them. Each book in this series guts me. My thoughts are always, 'this can't possibly get worse.' Jo Raven proves me wrong every time.
First I want to say that although I originally read this book when it first released in 2014, I have since reread it twice more. The Inked Brotherhood is one of those series for me that I reread in order to keep it fresh in my mind. I don't ever want to lose touch with these men. I know that sounds dorky and cheesy but if you've read any of this series you know what I mean.
Zane is the unofficial leader of the brotherhood. He is the one they go to for guidance. He always puts their needs before his own. But who does Zane talk to when the darkness threatens the little light he has left? That little bit of 'light' is Dakota. Still, Zane lets himself suffer; he won't burden her with his horrific past. A past that returns too often to haunt him.
Dakota is the perfect girl for Zane. She is tough on the outside with a soft heart and loyal soul. Dakota has demons of her own. And still, she wants nothing more than to help Zane be rid of his. While Zane keeps pushing her away, denying himself her beautiful heart and soul, Dakota pushes right back.
This is one of those dark stories you need to appreciate on your own. And once you learn about some of the horrors that Zane deals with, and what happens as a result of it, his happily ever after will be that much more satisfying.
Zane made me cry. This book also made me angry and stressed as well. Jo Raven's writing is rich in detail and complexity. All of the dialogue and inner monologue was believable. We get both Zane and Dakota's POVs. You'll feel like you're right thee with them.
All of the members of the 'brotherhood,' their girls and even some new characters (which will have a spinoff series; Damaged Boys) make appearances. The next book will be about Dylan and Tess. Then next is Rafe and Megan's story. After that is a full length epilogue called Inked Babies. I recommend reading this epilogue after you finished the series. It won't make sense otherwise. Not only will the epilogue give us insight into the near future for everyone, but Zane is in trouble again. His inner demons are out for blood and everyone will come together to help.
So if you are starting the series with Zane's book (they are all standalone with the exception of Inked Babies) I recommend you goi back and read Asher and Tyler before continuing.
October 30, 2014
Zane, goodness what this man does to us in this story is beyond AMAZING, an epic ride of emotions.
Zane is the cool, calm and collected one of the brotherhood. The others come to him for help or advise. But lately he is out of sorts. He has a huge burden weighing him down and then... HER!!!! She is in his head. She is all he sees and wants to be around. But, he's not that guy. He has rules dammit and she doesn't need to be at the receiving end of his rules, SHE deserves so much more. Better, someone that will give her what she needs and deserves. He's the love 'em and leave 'em type and he doesn't do relationships, hell he doesn't even kiss.
Dakota, oh our awesome heroine is fantastic. She works her way into Zaneland. She is intrigued by the hot tatted dude that is her friends friend. Hey they run in the same circle the man is hotter than hell and she may just have a crush. He has something she wants, a tattoo gun and a tat that only he can give her. But, he will NOT ink her. Events out of their control happen and these two get closer and dammit if every rule, reservation and doubt doesn't go out the window.
Zane and Dakota are fierce, strong and just a perfect balance to each other. But how will this work? Zane has a huge burden and demons he is fighting. Dakota has her own issue that she is living with. How will these two manage to find a HEA when there is so much they carry.
Jo Raven delivers a phenomenal installment to this series. She has an amazing talent to draw you into the story and you feel every emotion her characters are living.
Can't wait to see where she takes us next.
Zane is the cool, calm and collected one of the brotherhood. The others come to him for help or advise. But lately he is out of sorts. He has a huge burden weighing him down and then... HER!!!! She is in his head. She is all he sees and wants to be around. But, he's not that guy. He has rules dammit and she doesn't need to be at the receiving end of his rules, SHE deserves so much more. Better, someone that will give her what she needs and deserves. He's the love 'em and leave 'em type and he doesn't do relationships, hell he doesn't even kiss.
Dakota, oh our awesome heroine is fantastic. She works her way into Zaneland. She is intrigued by the hot tatted dude that is her friends friend. Hey they run in the same circle the man is hotter than hell and she may just have a crush. He has something she wants, a tattoo gun and a tat that only he can give her. But, he will NOT ink her. Events out of their control happen and these two get closer and dammit if every rule, reservation and doubt doesn't go out the window.
Zane and Dakota are fierce, strong and just a perfect balance to each other. But how will this work? Zane has a huge burden and demons he is fighting. Dakota has her own issue that she is living with. How will these two manage to find a HEA when there is so much they carry.
Jo Raven delivers a phenomenal installment to this series. She has an amazing talent to draw you into the story and you feel every emotion her characters are living.
Can't wait to see where she takes us next.
June 9, 2015
I couldn't wait to read this book and find out more about Zane because I've been interested in him ever since Asher!!!
He definitely didn't disappoint, that's for sure!!!
It really surprised me that he didn't give Dakota the dragon tattoo because I thought with her story at the end he would have given in. But it was pretty obvious that either way he was going to tattoo her with something. I think it would have been nice to gain a full understanding of what happened in Zane's past, even though it does seem horrific. I would have loved for him to fully remember because I'm a nosy beggar!!
I still can't get over the fact that the characters are so young. I feel like they should be older with all the trouble they have to go through at their age. I was surprised that Zane went into drinking so heavily, as I didn't think that his character would do that from how he has been portrayed. But it's definitely understandable with envy thing he had to go through with his sister having cancer and dying. There has to be a way to vent somehow. I really loved how the relationship between Zane and Dakota showed progress with how Zane managed to trust Dakota enough to touch him in troubling places. It helped the reading feel there struggles and how they could overcome them.
He definitely didn't disappoint, that's for sure!!!
It really surprised me that he didn't give Dakota the dragon tattoo because I thought with her story at the end he would have given in. But it was pretty obvious that either way he was going to tattoo her with something. I think it would have been nice to gain a full understanding of what happened in Zane's past, even though it does seem horrific. I would have loved for him to fully remember because I'm a nosy beggar!!
I still can't get over the fact that the characters are so young. I feel like they should be older with all the trouble they have to go through at their age. I was surprised that Zane went into drinking so heavily, as I didn't think that his character would do that from how he has been portrayed. But it's definitely understandable with envy thing he had to go through with his sister having cancer and dying. There has to be a way to vent somehow. I really loved how the relationship between Zane and Dakota showed progress with how Zane managed to trust Dakota enough to touch him in troubling places. It helped the reading feel there struggles and how they could overcome them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2015
This is the story of Zane and Dakota and their battle to overcome things from their past. With all of the books in the series all characters come from a dark past or something sad that has happened to them. There is just something missing from each book. I really wanted to read some interactions between Zane and his sister Emma and her kids. I want to feel that part of him but we were just told about. I also had issues with his past I mean what really happened? We found out a little bit but never the full story. Dakota was nice enough but I didn't really feel anything for her as a character. Of course I will finish out the series because I just got have to know. I wonder if there will another book but will all of them but older. Right now so far no one is past 25 and I just wonder what the future holds for them.
April 15, 2019
Zane's story breaks your heart. Same like Dakota's. They are perfect together and definitely my favourite couple from the entire series so far. It's a great read, recommend it to everyone.
July 22, 2017
*Arc provided in exchange of an honest review*
Jo Raven never fails to surprise me with her talent and with Zane she delivered her most powerful and raw piece of work, making Zane the most heart-breaking from the Inked Brotherhood to read to date. Zane is known as the leader of the Inked and Damage Control brotherhood, the one to confide in and depend on to help ease their pain but refuses to open up his own wounds, unable to see the light too consumed with his conflicting thoughts as his demons keep him in self-destruct mode, watching helplessly as his world crumbles around him, drowning himself further into darkness which he welcomes to capture a moment of stillness and peace. The only solace Zane finds is in Dakota, the girl who is relentless to break down his walls and capture his heart. I loved the banter between Zane and Dakota it was funny, hot and emotional as they explored their feelings for each other. Dakota became everything to Zane even when he pushed her away because his past triggers strung themselves tight around him in her company, bringing to surface fears he held at bay so he jumps ship and continues to spiral out of control with the heavy burden he carries on his shoulders. Zane is definitely a tear-jerker of a book to read but the love and support from all the brotherhood guys and Audrey, Erin, Dakota and Tessa, is what will warm your heart as you feel the outpouring love they all feel for each other as a family. The relationship and conversations between Zane and Asher were a highlight steal for me, as I felt how deep their friendship impacted the other for Asher to care enough about Zane and seek answers through Dakota. The sexy scenes between Zane and Dakota were scorching hot as they heated the pages with their intense need for the other, and Zane showed his dominant side leaving you in a heated mess! All around Zane is an emotional and beautiful story of a broken and damaged guy, whose seeking love and gains unspoken support from those who hold him dear to their hearts, as they lift him up through his darkness and help him to regain the man he is truly is.
Jo Raven never fails to surprise me with her talent and with Zane she delivered her most powerful and raw piece of work, making Zane the most heart-breaking from the Inked Brotherhood to read to date. Zane is known as the leader of the Inked and Damage Control brotherhood, the one to confide in and depend on to help ease their pain but refuses to open up his own wounds, unable to see the light too consumed with his conflicting thoughts as his demons keep him in self-destruct mode, watching helplessly as his world crumbles around him, drowning himself further into darkness which he welcomes to capture a moment of stillness and peace. The only solace Zane finds is in Dakota, the girl who is relentless to break down his walls and capture his heart. I loved the banter between Zane and Dakota it was funny, hot and emotional as they explored their feelings for each other. Dakota became everything to Zane even when he pushed her away because his past triggers strung themselves tight around him in her company, bringing to surface fears he held at bay so he jumps ship and continues to spiral out of control with the heavy burden he carries on his shoulders. Zane is definitely a tear-jerker of a book to read but the love and support from all the brotherhood guys and Audrey, Erin, Dakota and Tessa, is what will warm your heart as you feel the outpouring love they all feel for each other as a family. The relationship and conversations between Zane and Asher were a highlight steal for me, as I felt how deep their friendship impacted the other for Asher to care enough about Zane and seek answers through Dakota. The sexy scenes between Zane and Dakota were scorching hot as they heated the pages with their intense need for the other, and Zane showed his dominant side leaving you in a heated mess! All around Zane is an emotional and beautiful story of a broken and damaged guy, whose seeking love and gains unspoken support from those who hold him dear to their hearts, as they lift him up through his darkness and help him to regain the man he is truly is.
December 27, 2015
"Hope is a bitch. This is a train wreck waiting to happen, and I don't think life insurance covers this sort of thing."
Zane is close to breaking point as the weight in shoulders is proving to be too much pressure, the nightmares becoming more intense as he struggles to cope with his memories and the daily expectations of his life. His foster sister is fighting a losing battle with cancer and he can't fix it but he's the fixer and it's tearing him apart. Not listening to his own advice he bottles up his pain and grief losing himself in alcohol. He becomes withdrawn and the brotherhood doesn't see how fast he is losing control of his demons but she does.
Desperately determined to be inked by Zane, to have a dragon to wear with pride as a survivor she is relentless in pursuit of the hot tattooed bad boy that always says no to her. Dakota hides her own tragedy behind her smile but connects with Zane on a deeper level, recognising his pain. Her need for ink turns into something more as he finds peace when using her skin as a canvas and she quietens the monsters hiding under his bed. Slowly, together they break all his rules and he let's her in much to the astonishment of his friends. Together can they fight the ghosts of the past and overcome their triggers together, or is it all too much for ones so young yet wise beyond their years?
Zane's story is heart breaking as an abandoned child his upbringing in care is violent and abusive, cleverly written as dreams we only suggestions of the horrors he survived yet imagination is often worse than full exposure so my heart ached for him. He is so strong and doesn't realise his own worth, being the corner stone for so many damaged souls. I loved Dakota and her determination to love him no matter how many times he walked away. A marvellous addition to the series.
A five star I want to be inked by Zane read.
~*~ Obsessed by Books copy given in exchange for an honest review ~*~
Zane is close to breaking point as the weight in shoulders is proving to be too much pressure, the nightmares becoming more intense as he struggles to cope with his memories and the daily expectations of his life. His foster sister is fighting a losing battle with cancer and he can't fix it but he's the fixer and it's tearing him apart. Not listening to his own advice he bottles up his pain and grief losing himself in alcohol. He becomes withdrawn and the brotherhood doesn't see how fast he is losing control of his demons but she does.
Desperately determined to be inked by Zane, to have a dragon to wear with pride as a survivor she is relentless in pursuit of the hot tattooed bad boy that always says no to her. Dakota hides her own tragedy behind her smile but connects with Zane on a deeper level, recognising his pain. Her need for ink turns into something more as he finds peace when using her skin as a canvas and she quietens the monsters hiding under his bed. Slowly, together they break all his rules and he let's her in much to the astonishment of his friends. Together can they fight the ghosts of the past and overcome their triggers together, or is it all too much for ones so young yet wise beyond their years?
Zane's story is heart breaking as an abandoned child his upbringing in care is violent and abusive, cleverly written as dreams we only suggestions of the horrors he survived yet imagination is often worse than full exposure so my heart ached for him. He is so strong and doesn't realise his own worth, being the corner stone for so many damaged souls. I loved Dakota and her determination to love him no matter how many times he walked away. A marvellous addition to the series.
A five star I want to be inked by Zane read.
~*~ Obsessed by Books copy given in exchange for an honest review ~*~
July 18, 2015
I've thought about this a bit and although I really enjoyed this book, and am loving the series, I have a few issues with it. I am a bit concerned that, with such serious issues being dealt with (and by very young characters), none are seeing (or encouraged to see) counsellors of any kind. This book in particular deals with major abuse issues (well, they all do so far!) and the symptoms seem to point to Zane suffering from PTSD, which is a serious condition that requires treatment from a professional. Although this is fiction, there are many people who have suffered similar abuse who may be reading these books and I think that it would be so much better if these books set an example that people in a similar circumstance could follow that would make a real difference in their lives. Of course, I'm not saying that the author is responsible for the mental health of all her readers, I just think when people (especially in this age group) identify with something so serious, having a good idea of how to deal with those issues healthily would be hugely beneficial. Not everyone has the fairytale ending.
Another issue I have is that all these characters are so young and I think I'd feel more comfortable with them making permanent relationship connections when they're just a little bit older. And again, I'm not saying it's impossible for 18 year olds to form lifelong loving relationships - just that, given the issues addressed as well, it's not realistic that they all will! Even given the experiences that have forced them to grow up so early, or maybe because of it, I don't know how realistic it is that these relationships will last. But if they were in their early - mid 20's I think it would feel more believable.
Having said all this, I am really enjoying these books
Another issue I have is that all these characters are so young and I think I'd feel more comfortable with them making permanent relationship connections when they're just a little bit older. And again, I'm not saying it's impossible for 18 year olds to form lifelong loving relationships - just that, given the issues addressed as well, it's not realistic that they all will! Even given the experiences that have forced them to grow up so early, or maybe because of it, I don't know how realistic it is that these relationships will last. But if they were in their early - mid 20's I think it would feel more believable.
Having said all this, I am really enjoying these books
September 4, 2020
Book 93 Zane by Jo Raven
New title Z
no new authors
update on titles: TITLES A,B,C,D,E,f,g,h,i,j,k,L,M,N,O,P,R,S,T,U,V,W,Y,Z
Rating 4/5
Summary: Zane Madden is the one who always looks after his friends. The one people go to when they need to fix a problem. The only problem is Zane doesn't return the favor. He keeps everything locked inside. But there is one girl who is getting to him. Dakota. He is going to have to work really hard to let her in and face all his demons. But its a sacrifice he is willing to make. Because he wants to give her wings. To help her fly.
What I thought of it: Have you ever read a book where you were so entraced and lost in it that when you try to describe what happend, you cant do it? Thats what this book did to me. It was so compelling. The author made you feel everything the characters feel. She literally trasnported me into their world. I was so close to giving it 5 stars. Until the very end. The reason is because we dont get the answers about Zane's past. Sure, we get glimpes but thats it. And yet we get all of Dakotas. I was more interested in what happened to Zane than Dakota. Also it just kind of ended. Like aburtly. That threw me off. Why Im not sure. Also, the fact that the characters are like 17 18 years old. The stuff they go through should not be happening so young. I pegged them for at least 20. I do want to read the other books. But I am happy that I got the Z book done!
New title Z
no new authors
update on titles: TITLES A,B,C,D,E,f,g,h,i,j,k,L,M,N,O,P,R,S,T,U,V,W,Y,Z
Rating 4/5
Summary: Zane Madden is the one who always looks after his friends. The one people go to when they need to fix a problem. The only problem is Zane doesn't return the favor. He keeps everything locked inside. But there is one girl who is getting to him. Dakota. He is going to have to work really hard to let her in and face all his demons. But its a sacrifice he is willing to make. Because he wants to give her wings. To help her fly.
What I thought of it: Have you ever read a book where you were so entraced and lost in it that when you try to describe what happend, you cant do it? Thats what this book did to me. It was so compelling. The author made you feel everything the characters feel. She literally trasnported me into their world. I was so close to giving it 5 stars. Until the very end. The reason is because we dont get the answers about Zane's past. Sure, we get glimpes but thats it. And yet we get all of Dakotas. I was more interested in what happened to Zane than Dakota. Also it just kind of ended. Like aburtly. That threw me off. Why Im not sure. Also, the fact that the characters are like 17 18 years old. The stuff they go through should not be happening so young. I pegged them for at least 20. I do want to read the other books. But I am happy that I got the Z book done!
October 25, 2014
First of all....I licked Zane Madden and he's mine! ;)
Wow...Jo Raven has done it again! Telling the story of the most magnificent brother of the Inked Brotherhood, Zane Madden.
He's smoking hot, sexy as hell and hot Damn is he a bad boy walking! but looks really can be deceiving.
Zane is like his brotherhood brothers, broken. He had a horrible childhood, worse then the others.
His sister Emma is in the hospital, dying of cancer...This breaks Zane into millions of pieces. His only family, sick. But, Dakota comes along and tries to piece him back together.
Ahh...good old Dakota, she hardly knows Zane but helps him where she can, brings light to his darkness. her radiant spile and punk - rock look, dazzles Zane into actually wanting and relationship with and girl. but will she be the rock that keeps him standing?
as always, it's was beautifully written, I love Jo's style and I love her inked men! also this book has plenty of humour, humour that makes you snort and shake your head.
can not wait for the next in the series!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Wow...Jo Raven has done it again! Telling the story of the most magnificent brother of the Inked Brotherhood, Zane Madden.
He's smoking hot, sexy as hell and hot Damn is he a bad boy walking! but looks really can be deceiving.
Zane is like his brotherhood brothers, broken. He had a horrible childhood, worse then the others.
His sister Emma is in the hospital, dying of cancer...This breaks Zane into millions of pieces. His only family, sick. But, Dakota comes along and tries to piece him back together.
Ahh...good old Dakota, she hardly knows Zane but helps him where she can, brings light to his darkness. her radiant spile and punk - rock look, dazzles Zane into actually wanting and relationship with and girl. but will she be the rock that keeps him standing?
as always, it's was beautifully written, I love Jo's style and I love her inked men! also this book has plenty of humour, humour that makes you snort and shake your head.
can not wait for the next in the series!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
January 27, 2015
This is part of an amazing series. The Inked Brotherhood series is amazing. All the guys have problems they are trying to fight but one person is always there for them and that is Zane. Now Zane is falling apart because his life’s problems are catching up with him and he is struggling to keep up. Dakota has her own demons from her past and she is head over heels for Zane. She wants to protect him and be there for him. Once Zane gives in to the attraction he has for Dakota he cant stop. Zane and Dakota are HOT. This was an amazing story where they both can help each other with their pasts and find the love they deserve.
November 23, 2014
normally i'm all over the tortured soul and the girl who can bring them out of their hell. for some reason the repetitiveness got to me more than usual which took away a star. zane and dakota (love her name and family lineage) are hot together. maybe i would be more invested had i started from asher (book 1 in the series). i'll eventually get to the others in the series but not sure how quickly.
June 23, 2015
What can I say about Zane? There is more to Zane than meets the eye. He's such a genuine good guy. Zane has my heart. You definitely want to read this series, one of my favorites.
January 12, 2015
By far, my favorite in the series. Looking forward to Dylan's story next.
February 26, 2015
Awesome addition to the series. I think Zane's story was more powerful than the others.
March 3, 2015
Poor Zane... How I love your troubled soul:)
May 17, 2015
Loved Zane's story - the best one yet in this series. A story of true survival, grit and determination. Loved it
October 17, 2016
Podéis leer mi reseña aquí: http://www.abrilcamino.com/2016/10/le...
May 6, 2022
Zane, the Zen-man. He's the leader of the Inked Brotherhood. He's the one who saves them, protects them, and keeps them all afloat. But now he's drowning and no one is noticing. Growing up in foster care damaged him. It made him who he is. He doesn't get too close to anyone. He doesn't date. He doesn't catch feelings. He can't risk destroying anyone when he finally falls. Until Dakota. She's come along at the worst time in his adult life and he can't seem to push her away. He can't keep her but he can't let her go.
Wow, not sure I can get my feelings across properly in this review. Jo Raven did an excellent job developing Zane. His trauma, the brokeness are complete. They are believable and it is a devastating portrait. However, there is never any growth, never any self-care, or healing development. The man drinks and sleeps around to numb himself. Avoidance is his kink. He is suicidal whether accidental or intentional. And then it's never really addressed. He never confronts his trauma, never goes to therapy; he simply moves on. As someone who works at a Behavioral Health Center, I can't accept this. What happens when the next crisis threatens his well-being? He's not equipped to deal with his emotions. He can't even discuss the trauma. He can't just rely on Dakota to keep him emotionally regulated. And his friends? Not one even notices his struggle. In fact, they want to dump more on him. How can we pretend they truly care? I'm not sure if the author was rushed but I don't understand how a story can start out so nicely detailed and then devolve and not evolve at all. You can't have total darkness switch suddenly to bright light when dealing with such heavy topics. There must be a path worked toward recovery.
This is the first of the series I have read, but since I didn't realize it until I was finished, I don't think it mattered. What I didn't realize until the end of the book, however, was that I was reading about teenagers! I assumed these people were in their late 20s, even their 30s. It made it slightly ridiculous.
Wow, not sure I can get my feelings across properly in this review. Jo Raven did an excellent job developing Zane. His trauma, the brokeness are complete. They are believable and it is a devastating portrait. However, there is never any growth, never any self-care, or healing development. The man drinks and sleeps around to numb himself. Avoidance is his kink. He is suicidal whether accidental or intentional. And then it's never really addressed. He never confronts his trauma, never goes to therapy; he simply moves on. As someone who works at a Behavioral Health Center, I can't accept this. What happens when the next crisis threatens his well-being? He's not equipped to deal with his emotions. He can't even discuss the trauma. He can't just rely on Dakota to keep him emotionally regulated. And his friends? Not one even notices his struggle. In fact, they want to dump more on him. How can we pretend they truly care? I'm not sure if the author was rushed but I don't understand how a story can start out so nicely detailed and then devolve and not evolve at all. You can't have total darkness switch suddenly to bright light when dealing with such heavy topics. There must be a path worked toward recovery.
This is the first of the series I have read, but since I didn't realize it until I was finished, I don't think it mattered. What I didn't realize until the end of the book, however, was that I was reading about teenagers! I assumed these people were in their late 20s, even their 30s. It made it slightly ridiculous.
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