Holden

Ink and Ember #1

by Kate Hawthorne

Ink and Ember is open for business.

Holden Walker likes peace and quiet, which sometimes makes working at a boisterous tattoo shop, Ink and Ember, hard for him. Fellow tattoo artist Merrick does not know when to stop talking and inserting himself into other people’s business, which is how Holden ends up escorting Merrick’s younger brother Bryce Shannon to lunch on his first day in LA.

Attraction between the two men is immediate, and their first time together is incendiary. Without meaning to, Holden creates a safe space for Bryce to slow down, breathe, and explore some interests he’s never been brave enough to ask for before. In return, Bryce shows Holden that there’s nothing wrong with speaking up for the things you want in life.

Their relationship can only stay casual—and secret—for so long. It’s only a matter of time before Merrick finds out what his co-worker and brother have been doing behind closed doors. Will Holden and Merrick survive when their relationship comes to light, or will their future extinguish before it has a chance to ignite?

Holden is a low angst, high heat romance from Kate Hawthorne. A spin off of the successful Risk Aware series, the Ink and Ember books are short, spicy, and straight to the point (which in this case is bed).

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary

175 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2026

About the author

With over two dozen published romances to her name, Kate Hawthorne has built a recognizable brand around telling emotional stories that pack a figurative (and sometimes literal) punch.

Existing on a steady diet of wine and coffee, Kate spends her days dreaming up angsty stories full of heat, kink, and heart. Kate now lives in Louisville, where she writes romance, reads romance, and hides from the humidity.

Visit her website at http://www.katehawthornebooks.com

Reviews

[Sjoukje · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was cute and quick en enlightening in a way I didn’t know it would be. I kinda thought lube already was sort of a fake cum, but I guess there’s more out there than I in my lesbian mind would imagine 🤣🤣🤣

Yep, it’s that kind of book 🤣

Very smutty and sort of kinky.

And sweet at the same time.

Not five stars though, the whole “it’s forbidden because my/your brother can’t find out” was as annoying as always. I know this is a popular trope, but unless the lover is your brother’s abusive ex, it never ever makes sense for a brother to be so involved you need to be a secret…

In this case it was even less of a thing. Holden doesn’t want to f*ck up his workplace dynamic, but Merrick asks him to hang out with his brother more than once. And when it finally comes out, then Merrick says he was afraid his brother would hurt him, not the other way around? And if that would have happened, would he really blame the brother that much? It just doesn’t make sense.

It’s one of those stories that feels like the author made a list of tropes she wanted to use and then while writing thought these guys would benefit from some kink, and forgot all about the brother being the villain most of the time. I think the book would have been a lot better if they were not a secret and at the same time those pages were used to explain some more brother drama behind the scenes. Because there was apparently a lot going on but it was so little touched on, it made no sense. I think I used more words now 🤣🤣🤣

And I guess I need to read the very first series about the club too, because the way Verity is introduced in this book, it tells me the author wants us to be invested in their story too.

Anyway, Holden and Bryce were adorable together.

Probably don’t need to reread, but I go recommend because it’s sweet (and enlightening) 🤣

(Ps: So many questions about the fake cum though! Is this pretending to be pregnant really a thing in kink? And how does one not feel a tube being inserted as well? If it’s really soft, liquid won’t flow, but if it’s sturdy, you’d have to feel, I’d assume. And if you push it out and you just had a big taco meal, wouldn’t that mix up with something else when it comes out? And the whole plug thing… if you have a normal working bowel system… how does that not lead to really gross results and stomach ache, especially after eating 6 tacos??? How is all of this hot unless you’re really into another kind of kink involving bodily fluids?
Oh and one more thing… Holden goes in so deep he touches the next ring? What next ring? I’m so confused!) 🤣🤣🤣

[ML · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new fave kink activated… breed kink 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Holden is the sexy silent type and Bryce loves to chat but during sex it’s like they turn the tables.

They have instant chemistry. This was a fast and hot read!

I’m definitely going to love this series!

[read•me•romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oooooooh! You guys! Holden and Bryce are SO obsesses, insta love, super shminky bbs and I am down bad for it!
Loved that Hawthorne kept it simple, sensual, and swoony w this one! Just a solid shminky read! Highly recommend 🖤🔥

[megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not *just* smut - one time they go get lunch together and I think one of them takes a shower at some point... but actually even the author described it as enough plot to hold all the sex together and that's fine with me!

"He can't know about us."
"Is there something to know?"

Holden's coworker's brother comes to town early and Merrick asks Holden to take him to lunch. It's instant attraction and over food they flirt and make plans to hook up. What starts as a one time thing quickly becomes an addiction and Holden has a kink-awakening and a mission to make Bryce's cum-filled dreams come true. Along the way they fall in love~

If you like the cum inflation side of a breeding kink then you'll love this!!

[Dani (Daniiireads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

A one night stand turns with a coworkers younger brother turns into more in his high heat, low angst romance by Kate Hawthorne!

𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- tattoo artist + coworkers baby brother
- grumpy x sunshine
- one night stand
- instalove
- cum slut

[Florence . · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came for the breeding kink but I stayed for the breeding kink and the very swoony romance.

I started this book and I was instantly obsessed with everything about it. From the first time that Holden and Bryce interacted, I was just so into their dynamic and how they talked with each other. Every time these two talked, I could just feel the fun ooze from the pages of this book and it was lovely to read.

Also, I always say how my favourite thing to read about is the very start of a relationship so to see in details how they meet and then the first few moments between them, with the awkward fumbles where the characters don’t know how to ask for more and this one had so much of this and I loved every seconds of it.

Everything between Holden and Bryce, from the vibes in the book to their conversations just flowed so nicely and it was a really nice experience reading it. Every little moments between these two just made me so giddy as I was reading, I was so invested in seeing where things go with them.

Also did I mention this was hot as fuck?? Cause it truly was!

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

Hot, steamy and kinky - just what you want from the first book in a new Kate Hawthorne series! I loved getting to know Holden & Bryce and seeing how their relationship impacted Holden's work relationships and Bryce's relationship with his brother. All of the angst is external and the book is definitely a fun, quick read! I can't wait for the next story in this series!

[Patti O · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read of Kate Hawthorne. It is a cute story of instalove the characters were fun and very relatable. I’m looking forward to continuing this series as well to see who all will join the series. I will be looking forward to to add more of Kate’s work to my TBR





Note to readers :this story is not told directly in first person

Given ARC thru GRR for an honest review.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

chefs kiss

I saw Kate showing this one off on her IG in lil snippets and I was HOOKED.
This book is glorious and I love not only the insta-lust but also the insta-love. I enjoyed these two not only enjoying their time in bed but also out of it too.
That last scene with the planetary alignment?! 😭😭

[Any Length · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story is simple Holden is asked by his co-worker Merrick at the tattoo shop to take Merrick's younger brother Bryce out for lunch when he gets into town. Merrick is a talker and his younger brother also talks too much. Holden is a man of few words.
There is chemistry between them and they hook up but keep it from Merrick.
While they are hooking Holden discovers Bryce has a particular kink which Holden delights in playing along with. During their hook up both realise they want to get together again and it becomes a regular thing. They continue to keep their developing relationship from Merrick. Merrick is aware that Bryce is with someone and as an "interfering" older brother keeps trying to find out who it is.
What I loved is the incredible bedroom stuff where they fulfill each others needs so well.
However, there was a fair bit of underlying self-doubt in both Holden and Bryce who are both suffering from past events. There is are also parts that contribute little to the story other than making the reader aware that this book is setting the scene for a series and that at one stage in the future the club that is being introduced with a whole stack of additional characters will probably used in future books of this series. But in this book the club has little purpose.
What didn't sit right was when Bryce, who is using his brother's car to get to work, buys a second hand car at work and then leaves in that car, but makes no arrangements for his brother to get his car back other than texting him that he can have it back.
What is missing in the story is also the third act "issue/break up" the couple has to overcome. The book just isn't substantial enough in that respect.
I'm also left wanting more human connection and joint interests other than kink in the bedroom to base a long term relationship on. Holden tries hard to make Bryce stop talking so much, but that also restricts the "getting to know each other".
Their relationship is mainly based on what they do in the bedroom and that has limited longevity.
I also found that 3rd person narration didn't quite work for me. It just felt like I was one step removed from the thoughts and actions of the MCs and at times there was too much descriptive between questions and answers. By the time an answer came I had to go back a page or two in my e-reader to find what had been asked.

[Maxie · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC Review
*mild spoilers ahead*

So… there’s fast burn, and then there’s this one.

And to be fair, I’m not against a quick connection. I like stories where chemistry is instant and things get intense early on, as long as the emotional side still feels believable.

But insta-love is usually a harder sell for me, and unfortunately that was totally the case here.

Holden and Bryce (Holden’s coworker’s little brother) meet and hook up basically right away. And yes, it’s hot, sexy, fun, and even a little (kind of out of nowhere and not really discussed) kinky.

My problem is that the relationship goes from hookup to full-on love so fast that I truly couldn’t buy it. It happens so quickly, and the book doesn’t really tell you why. We’re shown that they like being around each other and that the sex is fantastic, but that’s kind of it. I never got the sense that they actually knew each other on a deeper level, and I didn’t see enough emotional progression to make that leap feel earned. Especially with Holden, who comes across as pretty detached and closed off at first, being the first one to realize he’s in love just a couple of days after meeting Bryce, it’s kind of baffling.

I knew going in that this was novella-length, so I expected a fast pace. I don’t need a huge, complicated plot in something this short. But even with that in mind, this still felt underdeveloped to me. There isn’t much happening beyond the secret relationship angle and the two of them sneaking around behind Bryce’s brother’s back. Outside of that, it’s mostly a string of spicy scenes and casual hangouts, without enough character growth or emotional depth to keep me fully invested.

Another thing that didn’t quite work for me was the third-person narration. There were moments where I forgot whose POV I was in, and that made it harder to stay connected to the story.

Anyway, not all books are for everybody, and sadly this one didn’t really work for me.

[Danielle Cordsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holden
By: Kate Hawthorne

📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚

Fast and real?

In this fast insta live story we get Holden and Bryce. Coworkers younger brother and maybe a bit forbidden but I’ll take it. It’s a make you feel good story that gives you hope they build from the fast forever. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.

Authors blurb: Holden Walker likes peace and quiet, which sometimes makes working at a boisterous tattoo shop, Ink and Ember, hard for him. Fellow tattoo artist Merrick does not know when to stop talking and inserting himself into other people’s business, which is how Holden ends up escorting Merrick’s younger brother Bryce Shannon to lunch on his first day in LA.

Attraction between the two men is immediate, and their first time together is incendiary. Without meaning to, Holden creates a safe space for Bryce to slow down, breathe, and explore some interests he’s never been brave enough to ask for before. In return, Bryce shows Holden that there’s nothing wrong with speaking up for the things you want in life.

Their relationship can only stay casual—and secret—for so long. It’s only a matter of time before Merrick finds out what his co-worker and brother have been doing behind closed doors. Will Holden and Merrick survive when their relationship comes to light, or will their future extinguish before it has a chance to ignite?

Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.

[Arcturus170 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy and this is my honest review.
4*
Getting right into it: I loved most of this book, but the beginning isn’t great. The writing doesn’t flow, the conversations seem stilted, and Holden is locked down and critical of the MC and his brother who talk a lot. Sometimes, I’m a person who talks a lot. The insta situation goes something like, ‘hey, you’re a hot guy in front of me, let’s have a go.’

Then… the MCs get together and everything changes. The writing flows and the scenes are attention grabbing. The kink exploration feels authentic, and eventually, like a deeply personal identity for Bryce. He has moments where he’s overwhelmed by the support and engagement from Holden. They’re incredible together and I became deeply attached to the story. It’s life changing to explore and discover with someone who is equally enthusiastic. I see myself in that.

The daytime date is one of my favorite moments. They’ve already had an important scene at home and the sexual tension is high, but Holden wants more than just physical. He’s intense and amazing. I love all the depth of feeling, the support, the raw desire that never goes away but has to be tempered. It’s fantastic. Then Holden delivers on Bryce’s fantasies. It’s filthy, yes, but it’s incredible for Bryce to be seen, respected, uplifted for his kinks and desires. Big emotions. Aftercare. Comfort. Soft words. Gah.

Honestly, my heart felt fluttery while reading the end of the book. Bryce and Holden are so entwined. They’re each overwhelmed by the speed of things, but the feelings are stronger than the worry. I love their story, even if it moves at lightning speed. Sometimes the intensity you feel for someone can’t be managed or rationalized.

I finished the book smiling like an idiot and believing in these guys. ❤️‍🔥

[Queenhack · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review

This was so raunchy! Holden and Bryce were going at it in every chapter but it makes sense since their relationship started from that! If you are looking for an insta-love romance book with a lot of smut and no angst? This is it.

Bryce,I will say is quite a complicated character. I understand his insecurities a little too much. I don't why people think they have a free pass to comparing siblings when they couldn't be any more different! Like, who are you? I have same same experiences in real life and I am not surprised that Bryce feels that way. It's a nasty feeling to continuously competing for stuff you shouldn't have to compete for. It's draining. And I think that translates into how his relationship with Holden evolved, he needed to quiet down his brain.

With Holden, he falls easily and hard. That might seem like a personality flaw, but that is what pivoted the relationship with Bryce. And don't be deceived by his grumpy quiet act, he has a filthy mouth on him and is very kinky. Iykyk.

I think they still need to learn more about each other in other to deepen their connection and understanding of each other, this will really help their relationship, as it really developed fast.

With Merrick and Bryce, the problem is the lack of communication. Instead of talking to each other, they gloss over it and assume what they want, projecting their assumptions onto each other. They spend so much time assuming that they don't actually know each other. They do love each other, though it is in a weird way.

I will be waiting for Merricks book, he seems so judgmental, overbearing and all over the place. I wonder what he is like in a relationship.

This was an easy fast paced read.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review for (Ink and Ember-1) Holden by Kate Hawthorne


Tropes-

Erotic High-Heat Romance
Breeding Kink
Cum Kink
Falling in love fast
A Relationship that is hidden

This is the first book of a new series that is a spin-off of the Risk Aware series. This book was hot as crap, and if you are looking for a story that isn't too long, this is for you. I fell in love with Kate Hawthorne's writing a couple of years ago and have tried to keep up with releases. Life messes with that, that is for sure. I have fallen behind, so when I saw this book, I ran to get it to read. I am a huge fan of breeding kink, cum kink, and erotic stories. This book hit what I love quite well. This story starts with Ink and Ember's business opening its doors. Holden is one of those people that prefer quiet and no drama, a quiet life. If he didn't love working at a tattoo shop, this business would be hard since the business isn't quite there at all. Merrick, a tattoo artist, is one of those people who love to talk and love to get into others' conversations. Things start rocking in Holden's life when he meets Merrick's brother, Bryce, out to lunch and gets to know who Bryce is. He wants to give him a safe place to be able to say what he wants and doesn't want in a safe place. The two men know they should keep their relationship just friends since Bryce is Merrick's brother, and Holden works with him. Will the two men get found out? Can they keep what they are sharing secret? I really love the writing of this story. I fell into this story from the first page and didn't want to come back out once I finished it, lol. I can't wait to see what will happen next in this new series.

Nicole Harvey

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yay! We got a new series from the BDSM queen! And this time we get tattoos in the mix.

If you haven’t read the Giving Consent series, I recommend that you because a couple of the characters from that series make an appearance and also because the series is one of the best out there. So go read it!

Bryce came to L.A. in search of a fresh start. After basically wasting three years of his a life on an empty relationship, he was more than ready for something new.

He just never imagined he’d find that with his brother’s coworker, Holden. He especially didn’t imagine that Holden would make all his fantasies come true without judgment or shame. Holden ticked off all of Bryce’s box and those he could only dream about.

Holden was Bryce’s complete opposite. Where Bryce was a chatter box, Holden barely talked. But Holden had his tricks to shut Bryce up😏 Though as he got to know Bryce better, he began to realize he loved to hear him talk as much as he loved for him to be quiet.

Holden started to understand the reasons for Bryce’s constant chatter and it warmed his heart that he could be himself around Holden.

What was supposed to be a one time thing, turned into steady and constant hot nights where they let their bodies do most of talking but also nights of getting to know each other at a more intimate, deeper level.

Holden fell for Bryce in such a fast way, that he didn’t see it coming. Yet he couldn’t see himself without Bryce in his life. Just because it was fast didn’t mean it wasn’t right. They both found something neither of them expected but something they both needed.

I’m so excited about the rest of this series! I know it’s gonna be absolutely hot and addictive as all Kate’s other work.

[Eileen Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the series so you meet a lot of characters of whom we can think will eventually get their own book.

Holden is a very quiet never speaks tattoo artist. Luckily or unluckily for him his coworker Merrick does not stop talking. Holden is very good at his job and thankful that he was hired. If only it was a little quieter for him to enjoy. While between jobs a man walks in and Merrick is giddy to find it is his younger brother. He has been in college and came a day early to surprise his brother. Merrick is in the middle of a job and he asks Holden to take his brother out to lunch since he has never been to town. Holden agrees with some pushing and takes Bryce out to eat. Very soon he questions his decision.

Bryce set out to surprise his brother and in turn he gets a surprise. His brothers coworker is just what he is looking for. He thinks Holden is gorgeous and in need of a friend. When Holden asks who gets more words in between the two it makes Bryce stop and think... he has been in competition to be heard since he was born. But now he has someone listening to him and he does not want it to stop. He wants to see Hudson again but he has pointed out he does not hang with Merrick. However with simplicity Holden give Bryce his number. With no surprise Bryce contacts Holden for his address so he can go visit him.

Will Holden and Bryce be fire and ice? Or will they be gas and flame? How much does Holden teach Bryce about life? Will the two of them continue to see each other? Will they Merrick or will he find out on his own? How does Merrick react? Is Bryce good for Holden? Does Holden stand behind Bryce and his decisions?

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holden and Bryce's love story was a character-driven, steamy exploration. Holden was a man of few words, while Bryce could talk until he ran out of breath, and together their conversations wandered in all sorts of interesting directions. Their attraction sparked to life on Bryce's first day in town, but their shared connection (Merrick, Bryce's brother / Holden's co-worker) made them a bit cautious about pursuing each other romantically. Physically, they were in bed within 24 hours of meeting each other, and my god was their chemistry fantastic. The two were extremely compatible in the bedroom, and this book contained heaps of delightfully hot couplings that leaned into all of their shared kinks. For some, Bryce and Holden's feelings may come across as instalove, but for me, every intimate moment was an expression of their developing connection. I bought into their growing need to see each other every day, and I believed in the depth of their feelings when I saw how vulnerable they were willing to get with each other. Telling others, specifically Merrick, about their relationship was the biggest hurdle they had to overcome, and I was satisfied with the way that element of the book was resolved. All in all, this was an exciting and spicy start to a new series that I really enjoyed!

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Linda Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast-burn gay romance with lots and lots…
First book in a new series about characters in and associated with the tattoo shop Ink & Ember in LA. Holden is our first character up. Quiet, tolerant and talented tattoo artist who works along side Merrick who talks non-stop, literally. Even his text messages run long. Well, Merrick is happy to have his younger brother Bryce come to visit and maybe stay. Bryce is getting away from a toxic relationship. Merrick asks Holden to take Bryce to lunch since Merrick has a client in the chair. Sparks fly and Holden and Bryce end up in Holden’s apartment. Can they keep this relationship quiet? What will happen when Merrick finds out which is inevitable? If you are looking for a slow-burn gay romance, keep looking because this is nothing about slow. They jump in both feet and everything else on day one. If you are in the mood for a downright primal gay romance with lots and lots of intimate scenes that can border on dirty, you will want to read this book. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews. Love the cover; perfect depiction of Holden!

[Justine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a high heat, fast paced, swoony little story that I inhaled on one night! Holden and Bryce were so perfectly matched. Initially they both think they’re so different,and they are. But they’re so complimentary it’s insane. Their sexual relationship develops quickly, but so does their romantic relationship. They learn a lot about each other in the silence as well as the noise, and they quickly become so much more than sexual partners. A bit of kink and a whole lot of sweetness. This story has the potential to get angsty, with the whole brother/coworker situation, and I’m so glad we didn’t get that. Very low angst, smooth story with no unnecessary drama or break ups. A simple story about falling in love, and falling into bed! Haha I really enjoyed the simplicity of the story. It allowed me to fully immerse myself in the book and feel all the happy feels. Sometimes we just need a good fictional serotonin boost, and Holden will be a book I come back to for that boost in the future.

[Marion · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Ink and Ember series and I can't wait for the next one. This is the story of Holden Walker and Bryce Shannon. Holden is a tattoo artist. In spite of working a boisterous tattoo shop, he actually prefers peace and quiet. HIs coworker Merrick has never met a conversation he couldn't insert himself into it. He is the reason that Holden ends up taking his younger brother to lunch. There is an instant attraction between Holden and Bryce. The chemistry between them just continues to grow and grow the more time they spend together. But the dilemma comes from dating a coworkers younger brother and not telling him about it. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. There is no real angst. I always appreciate a good grumpy/sunshine story. This is a quick read that I enjoyed. I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Mandy Beyers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Take one co-worker's brother and two dirty imaginations and you quickly get a situation that's as unexpected as it is perfect. Bryce has no idea that when he surprises his brother at lunch after arriving in town that the quiet coworker will turn out to be just what he needs. Something about the way Holden hears what he needs allows his brain to stop rabbitting and just be when they are together. For his part, Holden has always fallen fast, so when their flirting leads to what they think is a one time thing, he instead keeps inviting Bryce back for more. Although they try to keep it a secret, they fall in love hard and fast and have to admit it when Bryce's brother sees them. Their scenes are HAWT, but what I truly loved is the way they see and hear past what others try to tell them about each other. Although this is the first in a new series, I enjoyed seeing glimpses of characters from related books.

[Elaine Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holden was hot, fun, and exactly the kind of quick read I love diving into. Holden is quiet, steady, and prefers a drama‑free life—something that isn’t always easy in a tattoo shop that’s still finding its footing. Merrick, one of the artists, is his total opposite: talkative, energetic, and always in the middle of everything. Everything shifts when Holden meets Merrick’s brother, Bryce. Their connection is instant, and I loved how their relationship grows around trust, honesty, and creating a safe space for each other. They know they should keep things strictly friendly—given the family and workplace ties—but the chemistry between them makes that easier said than done. The tension of whether they can keep their bond private adds a great layer to the story. From the first page, I was hooked. Hawthorne’s writing is immersive and emotional in all the right ways, and I didn’t want to put the book down once I started. I’m excited to see where this new series goes next.

[Anouk · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a very fast paced book, but I don't mind. Holden and Bryce initially are attracted to each other and form a bond over Bryce's kink. There isn't a lot of depth in their relationship and that was a bit disappointing. Especially since it was mostly focused on their sexual experience. I mean Merrick had a pretty big part in the book as Holdens co-worker and Bryce's brother and Merrick talks a lot ofcourse, but when Merrick found out about their relationship it was way to short of a reaction if you ask me.
Merrick also didn't really know his own brother, because Bryce isn't a slut.
And there is a sort of trauma kind of thing with Bryce and how he feels like he has to talk, but that also wasn't really part of the story eventhough in my opinion it should have been.
Still I really liked the story so four starts form me.





P.S. I received an ARC, but this is my honest opinion. Thank you to GRR for the ARC.

[Beth King · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good book.
Holden and Bryce kind of get pushed together and their connection is instant. A good romance with that "when you know you know" type feeling. The MCs brought each other contentment and the comfort to be who they are when they open up or stop performing.
Holden is definitely an erotic romance though. I wouldn't say the spicy scenes are SUPER spicy, because your girls has gotten around with some of these books, but there is definitely an good amount of it.
And by good amount I mean, like every chapter and with a little bit of kink.
Overall, it was great. Exactly what the author said I was going to read and it was written well.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and Kate Howthorne for the ability to read an ARC of this story. I look forward to reading some of her past work now.

Happy reading.

[Lena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed “Holden”. It was such a fun, easy read and exactly the kind of romance I was in the mood for. The chemistry between Holden and Bryce was immediate and honestly so addictive to read, but what I liked most was how comfortable and safe they made each other feel. Holden being this quieter, more reserved guy balanced Bryce really well, and I loved watching Bryce slowly open up and figure out what he wanted without being judged for it.

The tattoo shop setting also added a lot of charm to the story and made the whole book feel really cozy despite all the spice. I appreciated that the drama never became overwhelming—it stayed focused on the relationship, the chemistry, and the emotional connection between the characters. Overall, it was sexy, sweet, and super easy to get invested in!!

[Dee Layton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Absolutely loved this MM Romance. This is book 1 in the Ink and Ember series. Let me tell you something and this book we get Holden & Bryce and boy were they just a wonderful couple. There's one little passage in the blurb that really sums this whole book up, for me at least. "Holden creates a safe space for Bryce to slow down, breathe, and explore some interests he’s never been brave enough to ask for before. In return, Bryce shows Holden that there’s nothing wrong with speaking up for the things you want in life."
That right there exactly sums up this whole book. The characters in this book were absolutely just Divine they were wonderful. The romance built slowly which are absolutely love.
Overall this is a wonderful book, a great way to start a series I am so much in love with a series already I cannot wait to see how it continues.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kinky. Medium angst. Tattoo artist Holden takes Bryce his co-worker's brother to lunch and then to bed. Their kinks align and a planned one night stand becomes a secret relationship. Holden is a man of few words, Bryce talks too much. Their relationship feels more real when they're in the bedroom.
It's smoothly paced. The author does spend an inordinate amount of time worldbuilding for the rest of the series.
A quick, fun read. The kink was a bit "Oh, my" for me (not clutching my pearls.... or maybe). I have not read much Kate Hawthorne. From the bio and other reviewers, I'm imagining that her tales are usually high heat and maximum steam. Us it too early for book two?
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up to 5
I enjoyed the story of Holden and Bryce, the two had instant chemistry, their kinks lined up, and Holden knew how to get Bryce to stay quiet, while Bryce learned how to get Holden to talk. They fit perfectly in the bedroom, and once they gave it a chance, they fit well outside of it, too. Love came fast, but it was true. A hot, steamy, sexy story to keep the reader engaged with two hot guys finding the person who “got” them in all the ways that mattered.

Looking forward to Merrick’s story next. Hopefully he will find someone who finds his constant talking endearing or else he has good earplugs.

I received an advance copy for free and this is my voluntary review.

[brownsoda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read for me. I went in expecting something else and ended up with a book I really enjoyed. Holden is quiet, taciturn would be a better description. As a tattoo artist he is dedicated, talented and quiet. He is surrounded by noise (chatter) of the others; especially his coworker Merrick. When Merrick's younger brother Bryce moves to town, he pushes him to make friends. I guess it could be a meet-cute. Bryce like Merrick is extremely talkative and Holden wants to keep him at arms length. Too bad they have instant lust or love.

There is a bit of angst in the story where we get to know each MC. But we get spice, so much spice which balances it out. I would recommend it for a low angst, spicy tale of when silence can be perfect