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Inked in the Steel City #7
Alluring Ink
Love is risk. Love is heartbreak. Love is an addiction a single mom like Crystal can’t afford. And accomplished tattoo artist Dylan is a temptation she can’t resist. He’s only in town for a few weeks as a guest artist, but the attraction is instant. With her past shadowing everything she does, it feels good to have someone who doesn’t judge … and doesn’t know.
Love is just the spark before the crash and burn, especially when your demons are something more than standard-issue. Dylan craves Crystal with everything he has, but their days together are supposed to be numbered.
Book 7 in the Inked in the Steel City Series
Love is just the spark before the crash and burn, especially when your demons are something more than standard-issue. Dylan craves Crystal with everything he has, but their days together are supposed to be numbered.
Book 7 in the Inked in the Steel City Series
256 pages, Paperback
First published February 13, 2015
12 people are currently reading
607 people want to read
About the author
Ranae Rose
46 books718 followersI write what I know and love: adult romance with blue-collar heroes and real-life flavor. Tattoos, handcuffs and men in uniform are a few of my favorite things, and it shows in my thirty+ published books.
I live in the South with my man in uniform, who I married for the entertainment value. Just kidding - it was the handcuffs, err, true love. ;)
So far, our happily ever after includes a couple kids, German Shepherd dogs and a mutual appreciation of timely 'that's what she said' jokes.
When I'm not writing, I love reading, good coffee, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and whatever outdoor adventures I can find.
I also love hearing from readers, so don't be shy! If you've enjoyed something I've written, hearing from you would make my day.
I live in the South with my man in uniform, who I married for the entertainment value. Just kidding - it was the handcuffs, err, true love. ;)
So far, our happily ever after includes a couple kids, German Shepherd dogs and a mutual appreciation of timely 'that's what she said' jokes.
When I'm not writing, I love reading, good coffee, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and whatever outdoor adventures I can find.
I also love hearing from readers, so don't be shy! If you've enjoyed something I've written, hearing from you would make my day.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 12, 2015
3 - "I'll take you anyway I can get you." Stars.
I am a huge fan of Ranae Rose, and this series I hold very close to my heart in particular as Hot Ink was the first book I ever read by her. It has been full steam ahead since, and as an author her stories never disappoint this reader.
Alluring Ink is Crystal and Dylan's story. We were briefly introduced to Crystal in the previous book in the series Irrisistible Ink as she is James's younger sister. Her problems were many at that point, whereas her options were few. James stepped up, and Crystal was given the opportunity to get her life back in order.
We jump back into this Crystal's story a little over a year on, she is finally getting on with her life, she has a job, a new home and is taking full responsibility for the care of her baby daughter Emily, and has firmly left her demons behind her.
Resisting temptation was a little easier when you knew first hand how destructive indulgence could be.
Dylan has just arrived in Pittsburgh, looking to take a guest spot in Hot Ink for three weeks, with the potential to possibly make it a more permanent move if things work out. Crystal and Dylan's developing relationship is not without it's drama, what with an over-protective older brother, and an under-the-weather younger brother offering up distractions, both are keeping huge chunks of themselves from the other at the start. As their feelings develop and the story progresses you learn more about both of them, and the issues that they are dealing with.
I enjoyed this book, both the H/h are dealing with massive issues in their lives, and Ranae takes the time to ensure that as a reader I understood everything and how the effects were felt throughout both of their lives. I did struggle however to find much of a spark between the two of them for the first half of the book, and the times they were apart gave more insight into them as a couple, than when they were together.
"I think about you every day; sometimes it feels like every damn second."
Thatsaid, this isn't a bad book by any stretch. You are given plenty of interaction with the rest of the Hot Ink family so the progression of the series as a whole is great. I liked Dylan, he had a lot too deal with and did it admirably. Crystal was the same, with Emily as a cute addition. I just have high expectations for Ranae's characters and together they didn't quite hit the mark this time.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for the above honest review.
I am a huge fan of Ranae Rose, and this series I hold very close to my heart in particular as Hot Ink was the first book I ever read by her. It has been full steam ahead since, and as an author her stories never disappoint this reader.
Alluring Ink is Crystal and Dylan's story. We were briefly introduced to Crystal in the previous book in the series Irrisistible Ink as she is James's younger sister. Her problems were many at that point, whereas her options were few. James stepped up, and Crystal was given the opportunity to get her life back in order.
We jump back into this Crystal's story a little over a year on, she is finally getting on with her life, she has a job, a new home and is taking full responsibility for the care of her baby daughter Emily, and has firmly left her demons behind her.
Resisting temptation was a little easier when you knew first hand how destructive indulgence could be.
Dylan has just arrived in Pittsburgh, looking to take a guest spot in Hot Ink for three weeks, with the potential to possibly make it a more permanent move if things work out. Crystal and Dylan's developing relationship is not without it's drama, what with an over-protective older brother, and an under-the-weather younger brother offering up distractions, both are keeping huge chunks of themselves from the other at the start. As their feelings develop and the story progresses you learn more about both of them, and the issues that they are dealing with.
I enjoyed this book, both the H/h are dealing with massive issues in their lives, and Ranae takes the time to ensure that as a reader I understood everything and how the effects were felt throughout both of their lives. I did struggle however to find much of a spark between the two of them for the first half of the book, and the times they were apart gave more insight into them as a couple, than when they were together.
"I think about you every day; sometimes it feels like every damn second."
Thatsaid, this isn't a bad book by any stretch. You are given plenty of interaction with the rest of the Hot Ink family so the progression of the series as a whole is great. I liked Dylan, he had a lot too deal with and did it admirably. Crystal was the same, with Emily as a cute addition. I just have high expectations for Ranae's characters and together they didn't quite hit the mark this time.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for the above honest review.
February 6, 2015
Dylan is supposed to just do a guest appearance for three weeks tattooing at the shop, but meeting Crystal makes him want to stay.
Crystal is finally getting her life together, moving with her baby to her own place and earning money on her own, when Dylan makes her want more.
Can they make a go of it? Two people, both with heavy baggage and hesitant to trust, but when love strikes you just can´t resist, can you?
Contemporary, smutty fluff and emotions in a great combo.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Crystal is finally getting her life together, moving with her baby to her own place and earning money on her own, when Dylan makes her want more.
Can they make a go of it? Two people, both with heavy baggage and hesitant to trust, but when love strikes you just can´t resist, can you?
Contemporary, smutty fluff and emotions in a great combo.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 5, 2015
I adore this series and this book. I recommend reading them all. But I especially encourage you to read Irresistible Ink (Inked in the Steel City #6) before reading this book. In Irresistible Ink we meet James and his sister Crystal and it sets up this book. This book is a bit darker than the previous book in that it deals a recovering addict and the stigma attached to mental health issues. I think this is a fabulous story and an important one.
February 5, 2015
I first want to Thank Ranae for expanding this series - I really love HOT INK, and this series.
I was so sad when she said James' book was the last.
I really enjoyed this book - there is something about how Ranae can write characters that are MADE for each other.
I have gotten hit with a bad cold, and I will come back and write a longer review soon - when I feel better - but just know - GO PREODRDER - MAKE TIME TO READ THIS BOOK IF YOU LOVE THE SERIES!
I was so sad when she said James' book was the last.
I really enjoyed this book - there is something about how Ranae can write characters that are MADE for each other.
I have gotten hit with a bad cold, and I will come back and write a longer review soon - when I feel better - but just know - GO PREODRDER - MAKE TIME TO READ THIS BOOK IF YOU LOVE THE SERIES!
February 19, 2015
I looooooooooooove it :)) I love this serie so far!!!
You can't help but fell in love with Dylan...It's a beautiful story...
You rock Ranae :)) Can't wait for the next one
http://lilisbooks.canalblog.com/archi...
You can't help but fell in love with Dylan...It's a beautiful story...
You rock Ranae :)) Can't wait for the next one
http://lilisbooks.canalblog.com/archi...
April 10, 2015
Powerful story addressing addiction and mental illness
What an amazing love story while overcoming some major issues. This was a really sweet story, well done and addressed the issue with respect. This is a hard topic to hit and it isn't easy or fixed magically. But, even those who made mistakes deserve a happily ever after. I love the Hot Ink Family. Ranae is a talented writer who creates characters that you can connect with. I love her writing!!
What an amazing love story while overcoming some major issues. This was a really sweet story, well done and addressed the issue with respect. This is a hard topic to hit and it isn't easy or fixed magically. But, even those who made mistakes deserve a happily ever after. I love the Hot Ink Family. Ranae is a talented writer who creates characters that you can connect with. I love her writing!!
March 6, 2016
It wasn't as good as I thought it was going to be. I'm kind of disappointed, but I'll still keep reading the last one in the series.
February 25, 2015
*** ARC provided by the Author in return for an honest review***
I'm a big fan of the Hot Ink series. However before I began this book, I'll be honest I was not a fan of Crystal after her actions in Irresistible Ink regardless of her motivations and reasons. But being a fan of Ranae's work and the series I had faith that once I read her side that might change. Ranae of course did not disappoint and Crystal totally redeemed herself. The story takes places about a year after the events in Irresistible Ink with Crystal working on improving herself while living with the daily regret of her actions. Soon she meets the visiting tattoo artist Dylan. Neither are in a place in their lives to fully start a new relationship. But they cannot fight their chemistry and soon start falling for each other. They reveal their secrets and things they are ashamed of and wish they could change. However they accept each other for who they are, flaws and all. The road ahead will not be easy for these two but together they can overcome what they used to struggle with alone. In addition we are introduced to Ben, Dylan's brother, who is also struggling with his own diagnosis. Ben has his own obstacles to overcome and I am looking forward to reading his story next and hoping for his HEA too.
I'm a big fan of the Hot Ink series. However before I began this book, I'll be honest I was not a fan of Crystal after her actions in Irresistible Ink regardless of her motivations and reasons. But being a fan of Ranae's work and the series I had faith that once I read her side that might change. Ranae of course did not disappoint and Crystal totally redeemed herself. The story takes places about a year after the events in Irresistible Ink with Crystal working on improving herself while living with the daily regret of her actions. Soon she meets the visiting tattoo artist Dylan. Neither are in a place in their lives to fully start a new relationship. But they cannot fight their chemistry and soon start falling for each other. They reveal their secrets and things they are ashamed of and wish they could change. However they accept each other for who they are, flaws and all. The road ahead will not be easy for these two but together they can overcome what they used to struggle with alone. In addition we are introduced to Ben, Dylan's brother, who is also struggling with his own diagnosis. Ben has his own obstacles to overcome and I am looking forward to reading his story next and hoping for his HEA too.
February 21, 2015
It was interesting to know that the main character of this book, Crystal, really put the screws to her brother in an earlier story. We don't know a whole heck of lot about her, other than she's a recovering addict and single mother. This could have gone bad very easily. I liked the way the drug use/abuse and recovery was treated. This shit is real. It's no fun, BUT people can re-build their lives. The fact that both Crystal and Dylan deal with a daily struggle to maintain some sort of sanity really brought them together. The sexy tattoo artist that never meant to stay in town fell hard for the pretty girl. I don't want to be misleading, either. Crystal is so much more than a pretty girl. She faced her demons and makes choices each day to make her life better. An entrepreneur that is only looking to better her child's life, Crystal keeps moving forward. She needs Dylan as much as he needs her. Together, sparks fly and their connection is just what they need to start really living again.
I love that Dylan's brother, Ben, will be getting his own book. He's another guy that's been through enough. He deserves a break!
I love that Dylan's brother, Ben, will be getting his own book. He's another guy that's been through enough. He deserves a break!
February 2, 2015
Ranae Rose does it again. I love this whole series! This book can be read as a standalone but you'll find yourself wanting to read all the other books in this series. She does an amazing job writing about sensitive issues such as those who are bipolar, single parenting, depression, drug abuse, image issues and so much more.
We all know that love is a risk. Love is an addiction a single mom like Crystal just can’t afford. Then an accomplished tattoo artist named Dylan enters the picture and is a temptation she just can’t resist. He’s only in town for a few weeks as a guest artist, but the attraction is instant. She has a past and it shadows her every move, it feels good to have someone who doesn’t judge … and doesn’t know her shame.
Love is just the spark before the crash and burn, especially when your demons are something more than standard-issue. Dylan craves Crystal with everything he has, but their days together are supposed to be numbered and he has secrets that he is hiding of his own...
We all know that love is a risk. Love is an addiction a single mom like Crystal just can’t afford. Then an accomplished tattoo artist named Dylan enters the picture and is a temptation she just can’t resist. He’s only in town for a few weeks as a guest artist, but the attraction is instant. She has a past and it shadows her every move, it feels good to have someone who doesn’t judge … and doesn’t know her shame.
Love is just the spark before the crash and burn, especially when your demons are something more than standard-issue. Dylan craves Crystal with everything he has, but their days together are supposed to be numbered and he has secrets that he is hiding of his own...
January 24, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The 7th book in the Inked in the City series is about Dylan, a guest tattoo artist, and Crystal, the younger sister of tattoo artist James (whose story was told in the previous book). Crystal is a recovering addict and single mother. It has taken a year, but she is finally clean and is able to provide for her daughter. Dylan is from New Jersey and is guest tattooing for a few weeks. Sparks fly when these two meet, but Dylan has a secret and it will impact their relationship. Will Crystal and Dylan be able to fight for their or will they lose that battle?
I enjoyed reading about these two. They each have to deal with major issues and have become better people because of them. This was a quick read for me and it wasn't too in depth or have many unnecessary drama. I do wish it was a little longer and we could get more background on the characters. I feel like it was just brushed over to get to the present time. I liked hearing about the characters from the previous books and I can't wait to read what Ranae Rose writes next.
The 7th book in the Inked in the City series is about Dylan, a guest tattoo artist, and Crystal, the younger sister of tattoo artist James (whose story was told in the previous book). Crystal is a recovering addict and single mother. It has taken a year, but she is finally clean and is able to provide for her daughter. Dylan is from New Jersey and is guest tattooing for a few weeks. Sparks fly when these two meet, but Dylan has a secret and it will impact their relationship. Will Crystal and Dylan be able to fight for their or will they lose that battle?
I enjoyed reading about these two. They each have to deal with major issues and have become better people because of them. This was a quick read for me and it wasn't too in depth or have many unnecessary drama. I do wish it was a little longer and we could get more background on the characters. I feel like it was just brushed over to get to the present time. I liked hearing about the characters from the previous books and I can't wait to read what Ranae Rose writes next.
January 30, 2015
I didn't like Crystal in the last book, I kind of thought I'd hate her in this one as well but the girl has redeemed herself and I found myself liking her a lot. Dylan obviously you have to love these Inked men Ranae writes the books that way, "he would've gladly eaten cardboard for dinner if it meant getting to spend time with Crystal." He's not like other men he doesn't shy away from the fact that Crystal is a single mom, and he was really sweet, "I want to see you whenever and however you'd like. I hope that'll eventually mean more than lunch." I liked that Crystal worked him so much that he needed to generally adjust himself all the time, "he groaned. "eff, Crystal. I want you so bad it hurts." He had to adjust his d*** so that his zipper wasn't pressing against it." I love this series and I'm hoping that new characters will be introduced or a spin off series will start I just don't want to see it end.
February 10, 2015
Thank you Ranae Rose for the ARC of Alluring Ink ( Inked in the Steel City) !!!
This book along with the rest of the series won't disappoint , Ranae has a way with her characters to bringing them to life, making you hooked! Though in my honest opinion I would definitely recommend reading Inked in the steel city #6 before reading Alluring as the character gets introduced in it and builds the story line.
If you love a story that will make you want more , crave more" than you have it here ;
Dylan only here for a few weeks meets Crystal and the intensity is there between them! Crystal with her past is just happy to meet someone new who doesn't know her and can't judge her by her past! So much baggage with both of them on their backs but they have a love/ connection that is so strong yet Dylan times is limited and he is hiding his own deep secret .......Hurry and PRE-ORDER you COPY!!!!!!!
This book along with the rest of the series won't disappoint , Ranae has a way with her characters to bringing them to life, making you hooked! Though in my honest opinion I would definitely recommend reading Inked in the steel city #6 before reading Alluring as the character gets introduced in it and builds the story line.
If you love a story that will make you want more , crave more" than you have it here ;
Dylan only here for a few weeks meets Crystal and the intensity is there between them! Crystal with her past is just happy to meet someone new who doesn't know her and can't judge her by her past! So much baggage with both of them on their backs but they have a love/ connection that is so strong yet Dylan times is limited and he is hiding his own deep secret .......Hurry and PRE-ORDER you COPY!!!!!!!
February 26, 2015
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3.5 Stars
Sweet romance with insatiable passion.
Nothing is better than finding that person that you can connect with, when you are least expect it.
Ranae Rose has this wonderful way of writing characters that are just made for each other. Dylan and Crystal are another perfect example.
I loved their natural meeting. The instant connection and chemistry, the fun and playful personalities, the fight in both Crystal and Dylan give Alluring Ink a real life feel. While the list and passion that scorches the pages get the fantasy wheels rolling.
The issues of recovering addiction and mental health add a bit of darkness and depth to Alluring Ink that the other books in the Inked in the Steel City series don’t have. With that said, Alluring Ink is one of my favorites in the series.
A review copy was provided by the author for an honest review.
https://coffeebookslifeblog.wordpress...
3.5 Stars
Sweet romance with insatiable passion.
Nothing is better than finding that person that you can connect with, when you are least expect it.
Ranae Rose has this wonderful way of writing characters that are just made for each other. Dylan and Crystal are another perfect example.
I loved their natural meeting. The instant connection and chemistry, the fun and playful personalities, the fight in both Crystal and Dylan give Alluring Ink a real life feel. While the list and passion that scorches the pages get the fantasy wheels rolling.
The issues of recovering addiction and mental health add a bit of darkness and depth to Alluring Ink that the other books in the Inked in the Steel City series don’t have. With that said, Alluring Ink is one of my favorites in the series.
A review copy was provided by the author for an honest review.
February 4, 2015
I love this series and love this latest book! I was hoping after the glimpse we had of Crystal in book 6 we would her her story. Crystal is a single mother with an addiction past she is trying to overcome. Love is an addiction she doesn't know if she will ever be ready for. Dylan is a guest tattoo artist with secrets of his own. He was only supposed to be around a few weeks. This is the story of friendship, holding onto secrets, and what happens when they must learn to confide, trust and lean on each other for support. Ranae Rose does a fantastic job with such sensitive issues as addiction, mental health, and how it affects the individual and families. While this book is the latest in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2015
I adored this story between Crystal and Dylan. Crystal is in the process of making amends for all the things she put her family through during her time in rehab. Dylan isn’t sure were his life is headed and is tired of his nomad ways. Both have a shakey past and aren’t quite ready to share with one another. With all the demons they have will their love make it or will the struggle become too much.
This story was very intense but I loved it! Highly recommended!
(ARC provided by author for honest review.)
This story was very intense but I loved it! Highly recommended!
(ARC provided by author for honest review.)
February 17, 2015
I am fairly new to this series but I'm in love. I live in Pittsburgh and I love seeing places I recognize in her books. Crystal has struggled and I understand how dark the world can be from the bottom. Dylan is guest tattooing in the burgh but he is blindsided when he meets Crystal. How do you start something with someone when you are in town for a limited time?
These two have issues that aren't easy and I love seeing how it all plays out. If you haven't jumped on this series, do it now.
These two have issues that aren't easy and I love seeing how it all plays out. If you haven't jumped on this series, do it now.
February 12, 2015
***Recieved a copy of this book from the author for a honest review***
Oh my goodness a Hot tattoo man and a single mom equals one Hot READ!! From beginning to end it has turns and your on the edge of your seat to see if these two can survive.
I love how Ranea captures you into a realistic story line. Definitely going to be reading more from her.
Oh my goodness a Hot tattoo man and a single mom equals one Hot READ!! From beginning to end it has turns and your on the edge of your seat to see if these two can survive.
I love how Ranea captures you into a realistic story line. Definitely going to be reading more from her.
February 15, 2015
I liked it. I was prepared not to because Crystal leaving her baby then coming back to get her when James was becoming attached was NOT cool. But Crystal's character was likeable in this book and Dylan the hero was simply awesome. Looking forward to more from this series...
March 14, 2015
Great series. Always happy to read this series, the characters are great. I loved this story and how Ranae wrote about such a serious topic with such grace and poise, but still writing a great love story is amazing.
February 14, 2015
Absolutely LOVE this series! So glad Ranae is expanding it!
April 20, 2015
Fantastic book, couldn't put it down, I love this series
April 29, 2017
Book 7 of 8 of Inked in the Steel City series
You know what I didn't like about this book? Crystal. Her attitude and behavior in the Epilogue at the end of Book 6 completely turned me off from wanting to hear her story. I just could not make myself care anything about her. The 2-star rating is only for Dylan.
Possible trigger:
You know what I didn't like about this book? Crystal. Her attitude and behavior in the Epilogue at the end of Book 6 completely turned me off from wanting to hear her story. I just could not make myself care anything about her. The 2-star rating is only for Dylan.
Possible trigger:
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews