Merrick

Ink and Ember #2

by Kate Hawthorne

Ink and Ember is open for business.

As an oldest son who never knows when to stop talking and can only judge his worth by how he performs, Merrick has grown up to be a talented tattoo artist and skilled painter. He’s also in the habit of spending his weekends hooking up with strangers, advertising himself on hookup apps for free use.

On one of those nights, he meets a handsome dominant, Wilder. Their fling at the club turns into a late night in bed, an early morning in the kitchen, and a promise for more. Wilder wants more than Merrick is ready to offer, but Wilder is patient and Merrick is beyond willing. It takes no time at all for the two men to embark on a relationship of self-discovery, learning not just each other but also themselves.

As they settle in together, Merrick’s old self-judgment and doubt begin to creep in, threatening to undo all the progress he and Wilder have made. Is Wilder’s belief in Merrick enough to get them through, or will they end up back where they started?

Quiet and alone.
--
Merrick is a low-angst, high-heat romance from Kate Hawthorne. A spinoff 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: Romance, M M Romance, Smut, Erotica, BDSM, Novella, Contemporary

178 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 4, 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

[Florence . · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the things I love the most in life is a book that focuses on the very first weeks of a new relationship and all the little anxieties that comes with it. And this one just did this so wonderfully and I had a wonderful time reading this one.

I love the way these two clicked from the first time and how every conversation between them was a ton of fun to read about, I was just so invested in the romance in this book.

I loved how their dom/sub dynamic was explained and I loved the bpok was showed to me how much it impacted Merrick and Wilder and how much it worked for them. I had a blast reading all about it.

The romance between these two was so gentle and sweet and the way they considered the other's wants and needs before doing anything was so good and it made me grin so much as I was reading this one.

This was such a good mix of super hot moments between characters that were so mushy and tender with each other and I loved every seconds of it.

[Alix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adored this book!

We first met Merrick in baby bro Bryce's book, Holden. Holden is Merrick's co-worker at Ink and Ember, which is how Holden meets Bryce. I was not enamoured of Merrick in that book, shall we say. In fact, as much as I wanted to read this book because I love pretty much everything by Kate Hawthorne, I also kinda didn't because Merrick was a kind of annoying older brother to Bryce, lol!!! However, I soon changed my mind once I started reading. Poor Merrick!! I get how hard it is sometimes to quiet the mind! I am so glad that in Wilder, he found so much understanding & someone who just clicked perfectly like a puzzle piece. Wilder!! Wilder just made me swoon! He performs the most exquisite caretaking and he just really GETS Merrick and knows how to give him exactly what he needs so he can get out of his head. And the way he enjoyed and support Merrick's art...swoon. And the spice was soooooo hot, but at the same time, there was so much caring there too. Swoon! I loved how Merrick and Bryce communicated better and improved their brotherly relationship in this book. I also loved that we got to spend a bit of time with Justin and his partners (cameos from another book). Did I think this book is pretty perfect? YES. I loved this book so much!

What to Expect:
*tattoo artist + IDK White Collar Worker
*Sub Top + Dom bottom
*One time play partner to more
*Safe seggs
*Consent, consent, consent
*Toys
*BD$M
*insta-lust
*Exquisite caretaking
*Art
*public play/seggs
*cameos from previous books
*found family
*novella

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review for (Ink and Ember-2) Merrick by Kate Hawthorne

I fell in love with Kate Hawthorne's writing a couple of years ago. Her stories got me through a rough time in my life when I almost died. Her books just allowed me to escape what I was going through in the real world. I was able to turn the pain off and enjoy wonderful stories. When life is tough, I go and read her books again, so when I saw she had this book to read, I ran to get it. This author can write a great story with the right amount of BDSM and the kinks. I love when I find an author that can do this, and it flows well. When I want a low angst in a story, then put in some spice; I can't put it down. You have Ink and Embers opening was fabulous. Merrick has struggled with life at times. Being the eldest son in his family can be rough. Merrick also has grown into a great tattoo artist along with a great painter. Merrick tries to find a way to escape by having hookups with strangers on his weekends. He puts himself out there as a free-use top, and there is no shortage of men that want that. Then one night he meets Wilder, who is dominant. It starts as just a meeting up that grows into a night in bed. The next morning they decide that they both want more and to give it a try. Wilder wants more than Merrick, but he is patient and will wait to see what they share and what they could have together is worth every minute. I love the way this story flows. You have a self-discovery unfolding that just feels beautiful. But I didn't expect less from this fabulous author. Some day I would love to have her books in print. Can't yet, but I can dream, right lol.

Nicole Harvey

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.5 stars

Merrick is the second book in the Ink and Ember series, which is a spin off of the author’s Risk Aware series. It’s not imperative that you’ve read either for this story to make sense, though if you’ve read Holden, this book holds a bit more nuance. One again, I was impressed by Hawthorne’s ability to write characters who have depth and really drive the story, without including a ton of angst or heavy themes. The author does touch on some heavier themes, without making them central to the story, but just enough to give the story a bit of weight.

I just really loved the easy way these two men were with each other. I was all in from the jump and read through this story quickly, unable to wait to see their happily ever after. And they get it. This is the low-angst, high-heat book the author claims it to be, and I really enjoyed every second of it. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.

Read Kris’s review in its entirety here.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was great to revisit the Ink and Ember world again, this time with the couple of Wilder and Merrick. We have already met Merrick in the previous book in the series. In this story, we learn that Merrick has a free use kink, which he indulges in at Rapture, a kinkster club. There he meets Wilder what should have been a passing encounter turns into more when both men can't stop thinking about the other. The characters are non-traditional, with Wilder being a Dom who prefers to bottom. Merrick has never identified as submissive, but perhaps he is. They figure it all out and find forever love along the way. I look forward to Bk 3 in this series!

[Danielle Cordsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maverick
By: Kate Hawthorn

📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚

Willing to try?

In the second book in The Ink and Ember series we get Maverick and Wilder. Maverick is definitely on the insecure side always convinced he is more trouble than he’s worth. He has fantasy’s he’s never even dreamed to explore. They meet at a kink club and it’s amazing for both men.

The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some have quick witted story lines that are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. 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.

Wilder however is. Dom who bottoms so finding his match is challenging.

Authors blurb: Ink and Ember is open for business.

As an oldest son who never knows when to stop talking and can only judge his worth by how he performs, Merrick has grown up to be a talented tattoo artist and skilled painter. He’s also in the habit of spending his weekends hooking up with strangers, advertising himself on hookup apps for free use.

On one of those nights, he meets a handsome dominant, Wilder. Their fling at the club turns into a late night in bed, an early morning in the kitchen, and a promise for more. Wilder wants more than Merrick is ready to offer, but Wilder is patient and Merrick is beyond willing. It takes no time at all for the two men to embark on a relationship of self-discovery, learning not just each other but also themselves.

As they settle in together, Merrick’s old self-judgment and doubt begin to creep in, threatening to undo all the progress he and Wilder have made. Is Wilder’s belief in Merrick enough to get them through, or will they end up back where they started?

Quiet and alone.

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.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
The blurb sets up background for Merrick and Wilder well. Merrick advertises himself as a “free use top”, and meets Wilder at a club where Wilder takes him up on his offer. Later, at home, Merrick recognizes a guy on an app as Wilder, and ends up at Wilder’s house for more on-going encounters. Wilder is a Dom, but one who tops from the bottom, and Merrick is a perfect submissive for him (though Merrick doesn’t know that), one who only tops, but falls into the submissive role very quickly, responding to any direction from Wilder without question.

Merrick talks constantly, often annoying those around him, but Wilder listens intently, asks relevant questions, and is attentive to his responses. Merrick has never had someone who takes him at face value and accepts him without question, soon falling for this man who takes him like he is, feeling totally seen and understood. Wilder also totally accepts and supports Merrick’s art, both painting and tattooing, and works with him on not putting himself down or belittling his talent. The two see and understand each other completely, complementing each other, and quickly move to sharing feelings which have crept up without awareness, heading toward a long term relationship for two men who were pretty much loners, not interested in relationships, but finding the other half that completed them in the process.

The characters drew me in immediately and had me invested in their relationship. Wilder was perfect for Merrick, he was intuitive and observant, picking up clues about Merrick and his motivations for his actions quickly, finding ways to use punishments and rewards to give Merrick what he needed to be satisfied and content in this new relationship, and also recognizing that he had found the unique person best suited for him and to fulfill his own needs. Lots of spice and some BDSM going on in a relationship that suited both, made each feel seen, and that met the kinks each had to move toward a life together.

[Arcturus170 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy and this is my honest review.
4*
Really enjoyed. Things develop very quickly, but that’s how this series is designed. Sometimes you meet a new person and don’t want to let them go—they’re too good to be true and you don’t want the spell to break. That’s Merrick and Wilder in a nutshell. They’re a very precise alignment of kinks. It’s interesting to see how that all plays out. Some of their dynamic I’d never thought about before. It’s fun to see them exploring kink by talking through fantasies together. There’s something exciting about existing in what’s possible.

The punishments are tough, though. I’ve had that issue in other books, as well. My inclination is to help someone feel safe and cared for when discussing tough things, not beat the hard truths out of them. 😅 Consensually, but still, I have a difficult time with that approach. There are moments of catharsis, which help make up for the tough road to get there.

The free use kink is pretty fun and extra spicy. Love seeing the adventures of a dom bottom because it’s so unusual and a flip of typical power dynamics. It’s fun to break out of the typical boxes and see how things look from a different angle.

Love the focus on Merrick’s passion for art. Wilder empowers Merrick’s creativity and self esteem. There’s a great event at the end of the book, bringing Merrick full circle.

That said, I didn’t entirely love the last few pages. They feel a bit cursory. Rather than immersing us in the HEA, we get hints and then told that an important conversation happens off page. Argh. Also, Wilder’s response to Merrick’s devotion is oddly underwhelming in that moment.

The book includes one quality scene with Bryce and fairly minimal interactions with Holden. Also worth mentioning a brief MFM background scene at the kink club (not MCs). I wasn’t expecting it.

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a love/hate relationship with these books. I love them so much but hate that they’re so short😭 This book could have been a million pages and I’d still have read it.

My heart broke for Merrick. I never knew how much it hurt him to hear the people around him complain about him talking too much. The fact that he felt like he needed to be quiet all the time to accommodate others, really pissed me off.

Merrick had to talk a lot when he was younger so his parents would pay attention to him. It was a habit that followed him to his adulthood and one that apparently annoyed people. He really tried to curb himself but it was part of his personality.

When they first met, it was only supposed to be a one time thing. A night they could both find some release and move on. But Wilder couldn’t get Merrick out his head. The way he obeyed him so easily made Wilder hope that they could be more.

Merrick’s insecurities about saying too much made him feel awkward around Wilder. He was afraid that Wilder would be turned off by constant chatter.

But what others considered a nuisance, Wilder considered endearing. He loved hearing Merrick express himself. He loved to see how excited he got when he talked about something he was interested in.

Merrick never thought he’d find someone who would want him with warts and all. He felt that he would be too much for someone like Wilder and that sooner rather than later he would get tired of him.

But Wilder surprised him. He wanted Merrick for the long haul. He helped him believe more in himself and his art, while also giving him the benefit of being his Dom. Wilder grounded him when his thoughts threatened to make him spiral and made him feel loved in a way he never imagined.

Merrick found where he belonged and in the least expected place. He found someone who loved him for him and wanted to hear everything he had to say.

[Musingsonbooksandmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merrick by Kate Hawthorne, is book two in the Ink and Ember series and is Merrick and Wilder’s story. I have not read this first story in this series, but I did not feel that impacted my ability to follow or enjoy this story. Kate Hawthorne is a great writer of kink stories and this a great kink-based romance. Tattoo artist Merrick is a free use top, who uses that as a way to silence his thoughts and give himself peace from the impacts of growing up in a cold and distant childhood. One evening at Rapture he meets, Wilder, a dominant bottom, and the story follows them on their journey from strangers to lovers.
I thought the connection between Wilder and Merrick was beautifully written, not an instant-lust/love but definitely a powerful bond that was believable. The story played around with perceptions, but it wasn’t the sole focus of the story. There was an acknowledgement that whilst others expected Wilder ad Merrick based on their appearance to fulfil different roles, they were fully happy in the D/S dynamic, and it worked beautifully for them. Merrick was such a natural submissive, and it was touching that Wilder created that space for him to be himself and how well he responded to Merrick's needs. This is one of my best recent reads of D/S relationship and I did get a bit emotional as Wilder helped Merrick to make peace with the parts of himself he didn’t like. This is a low-angst story that’s easy to read and heartfelt. The world building is good and if you are familiar with Kate Hawthorne’s work then you will recognise other characters, but it is not necessary to follow the storyline. I would recommend this book, and I look forward to the next one in the series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.7

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merrick and Wilder's love story was all about finding someone who accepts you exactly as you are without judgment. For Merrick, that meant someone who didn't find his talking to be too much, who could not just tolerate his sexual appetite but fill in the pieces Merrick didn't even realize were missing. I found it easy to fall head first into Merrick and Wilder's steamy power exchange. Their chemistry was incredible, and I was in awe of how much trust they placed in each other's hands so early into their relationship. It was clear that both men were feeling a special kind of way about each other, and the more physical intimacy that built over scenes and nights spent together, the more their emotional connection deepened as well. Was their progression of feelings fast? Compared to other couples, maybe, but a relationship dynamic like theirs demands the kind of trust that can otherwise take months to develop, and I never felt like the words they were saying flew ahead of their genuine feelings. Merrick and Wilder were the happiest, most centered versions of themselves around each other, and I felt my joy mirroring theirs as their journey progressed. There wasn't a ton going on outside of the romance, but I did enjoy getting glimpses of Merrick and Wilder's interactions with their friends and family. All in all I had a good time with this book and thought it wrapped up with a satisfying HEA.

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

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 4 out of 5]

MERRICK is the second book in the Ink and Ember series. It can be read as a standalone without issue. It is a quick read.

What to expect:
🩶 Submissive Top
🖤 Free Use
🩶 Humiliation
🖤 Praise Kink
🩶 Instalust

Merrick and Wilder meet at Rapture, a sex club. Merrick puts a sign on the door offering as a "free use" top. Wilder sees Merrick's post saying he's going to be a Rapture for the night. Wilder takes full advantage of what Merrick is offering. Wilder is a Dom bottom that thinks Merrick would make a perfect sub for him. Merrick has been told his whole life he's too much, talks to much and is just a lot to be around. Wilder finds Merrick fascinating and wants him to talk, tell him about whatever is on his mind. Merrick's never had some who just wants to listen to him.

This is a quick read with insta lust and lots of smexy times. This is my first read from this author and I was completely invested and enjoyed these characters. I loved how Wilder was everything Merrick needed (his brother even though he was apologizing and wanted a relationship irritated me how he talked to Merrick!) Merrick turned out to be the perfect sub top he's needed and wanted.

I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for GRR.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book, not realizing it is part of a series. That's ok though; you don't have to read the first book to enjoy the second. Merrick's story is one of discovery, acceptance & super spicy moments. Merrick knows what he wants in the bedroom, but finding someone who not only will fulfill his needs and give him something more doesn't seem realistic.

In walks Wilder. Not the typical type that Merrick engages with, but intrigues him nevertheless. Merrick didn't want to let their chemistry go. When he has the opportunity to see Wilder again, he realizes that this is not like other experiences.

Merrick and Wilder build their relationship on trust and honesty. It was refreshing to see them both work so hard to make this work and deal with the highs and lows of relationships when everything is new. Shout out to Wilder's friends, who kept him balanced, and Merrick's brother, who supported him event when Merrick was not always the easiest when it came to Bryce's relationships.

I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author.

I received an ARC from GRR and am leaving an honest review.

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merrick, a talented tattoo artist who ties his worth to performance and weekend hookups, meets Wilder — a dominant who wants more than a one‑night fling. Their connection quickly deepens into a relationship built on self‑discovery. But as they grow closer, Merrick’s old doubts resurface, threatening everything they’ve built. The question becomes whether Wilder’s steady belief in him is enough to keep them from ending up alone again.

I loved this story. Wilder repeatedly shows Merrick he’s worth far more than he believes, and that his submissive nature isn’t something to fear or hide. Their relationship growing out of one of Merrick’s usual hookups felt especially powerful because the connection between them was undeniable from the start — and, for once, Merrick was met with genuine care and kindness, not dismissal. I also adored how Wilder encouraged Merrick’s art, giving him space to see his own talent and value. The emotional depth, the gentle guidance, and the way they learned each other made this a beautiful, heartfelt read. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like D/s dynamic.

[Linda Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gay romance: each discover their perfect match in the other like puzzle pieces
Love the covers of both the first books in this series. Yum! Astonishing number of intimate scenes; when the author describes this book as high-heat, believe her! For the characters it was the prefect amount of steam but for this reader, it may have been a wee bit too much. If you are looking for an over-the-top steamy gay romance, you have found it in this book. Grab it, read it, and watch out!
Merrick is the overly-talkative tattoo artist we met in the last book. We find out that he has a boundless amount of desire but no one person with which to engage so he attends the BDSM club Rapture. On one particular night he meets Wilder and the beginning of the end of his search for THE ONE is over. Merrick and Wilder find their missing half; Merrick needs intimacy to breathe while Wilder is the odd combination of Dom who likes to bottom. My favorite line: “And what will you call me, Sir?” Wilder replies, “I think I’ll call you mine.”

[Thrilled Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merrick is a tattoo artist and paints for fun. He also is kinky, giving himself up at Rapture to whomever wants to come in and use him. He puts a sign in the door and a ball gag in place.
In walks Wilder, a Dom that likes to bottom. He sees something in Merrick right away and everything feels right like it hasn't before.
Later, looking on an app, he recognizes Merrick and they realize that they'd like to meet again. It turns out Merrick uses the gag because he's a voracious talker and has been told to shut up many times in his life. It allows him to enjoy himself without distraction, from himself or from the judgment of others.
This book was very good, but left a little to be desired. I had a hard time envisioning the environment where they were, a hard time getting into the sex scenes. It's like the background wasn't described well enough for my liking.
Anyway, if you're into D/s relationships, this is definitely worth your time.

[Caroline Griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first met Merrick in book 1, I honestly was not sure how to read him. And his reaction seemed a little over the top. However meeting him with his own story at the forefront made me absolutely fall in love with him. Merrick and Wilder have very specific needs and wants, mostly living unfulfilled but their chance encounter changes everything. This story opened my eyes to possibilities that I truly never considered and the they way that the characters were used to explain and demonstrate what each MMC gets from those interactions was so great. Wilder allows Merrick to be himself as Merrick also does for Wilder. Their dynamic is almost perfect and even allows for unexpected mutual understandings with their external relationships. When you least expect them, the best opportunities can land in your lap.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Plaguedoll · Rating 3 out of 5]

Merrick and Wilder’s story was a good read, with a good balance between steamy and sweet. The D/s aspect is a big part of their relationship, and I really liked how it allowed them to understand and fulfill each other’s needs.

Merrick talks a lot and Merrick’s perspective gives us a much deeper understanding of how that affects him after reading about him in the previous book. He’s self-conscious about it and actively tries to stop himself from talking when he has something to say, which made me feel bad for him.
Wilder is the perfect complement to Merrick, giving him a safe space where he can express himself without feeling like he needs to hold back.

The only thing I really wasn’t fond of was their relationship developing so quickly, and it felt a bit rushed. It was still a deeply emotional connection though, so I can’t complain too much.

Overall, Merrick is a good, quick, low-angst read, a great palate cleanser.

*ARC read, my opinions are my own.

[Amanda Winter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one! Things develop very quickly, but that’s kind of the point of this series. Merrick and Wilder have such a perfect alignment of kinks, and I loved watching them explore their dynamic together. Their relationship is intense and fast-moving, but the connection between them felt believable.

I especially enjoyed the dominant-bottom dynamic. It’s not something you see often, and I loved how the book challenged the usual expectations around D/s relationships. Wilder creates a space where Merrick can be completely himself, and seeing Merrick grow in confidence and make peace with his past was probably my favourite part of the story.

The free-use kink was definitely fun and extra spicy, too. 😏 I wanted more time to actually experience the HEA rather than having an important conversation happen off-page.

Overall, a steamy, low-angst and heartfelt kink romance with an interesting dynamic and two characters who really seem to bring out the best in each other.

[Justine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merrick and Wilder’s story was so much fun. It was very steamy, but also very sweet. Merrick talks a lot, which is described in Holden and Bryce’s story, but Merrick’s perspective allows us to see how that impacts him and makes him feel. He feels self conscious about it and actively tries to make himself stop talking when he has something to say. Wilder is perfectly complementary for Merrick and gives him a safe place to express himself. Their dynamic was wonderful. They each found something in each other that they didn’t think was possible and it was beautiful to see. The D/s aspect is very important and prevalent in their relationship and allows them to meet each others needs. Their story develops quickly, as is the nature of a shorter story, but it isn’t rushed or lacking. I’m enjoying this series of high heat and sweet stories very much, and am looking forward to the next.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series, but I didn’t read the first book and was able to enjoy it (Although now I want to read the first book too). Merrick thinks he is too much, he hasn’t really explored all his kinks and doesn’t believe someone will love him for who he is. Wilder is a dominant bottom and has had a hard time finding someone to match his kinks. They meet at the kink club and both have an amazing encounter. Merrick ends up messaging Wilder and they start to date and get to know each other, and their flaws are not a deterrent to each other’s needs. There is spanking with hands and objects in this book.
Story 3.5, Spice 3.5
I received a free copy of this book via Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

All it takes is that one person who fits your needs

I really enjoyed this book by Kate Hawthorne. We meet Merrick at a club trying to get what he needs and Wilder shows up. Turns out that they are just what the other needs and they both have rather specific needs.
I love when authors write about people like this that are very unique like Wilder being a dominant bottom and then writing a character that fits those needs and who they can make happy as well. They get together and fall for each other very quickly, but it feels real because of the way that she has them connect. I love that she has them talk about limits, desires, safe sex, etc and she does it all in a way that makes sense for the characters and is never boring either.

[Becky Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being my first read from this author, I didn’t know what to expect. However, I wasn’t disappointed.

Merrick is a tattoo artist, originally from a small coastal town, living in LA. He’s been working at Ink & Embers for a few months and enjoys his work, but there’s something lacking in his life. Offering himself as free use in a kink club, he meets Wilder.

I’ve never been a big believer in insta-love, but Merrick and Wilder make this seem possible. They find in each other what they need. Their relationship develops somewhat naturally and is well-paced. While the author uses the preferences of each character as a base, the pace of the story feels right, even in this novella.

3.75 ⭐️ 4🌶️

[Amanda D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate has such a way with words

Merrick’s been the mouthy tattoo-shop menace hovering at the edges of the Ink and Ember series since book one, and honestly it’s about time he got dragged out from behind the counter and made to deal with his own feelings for once. Hawthorne writes low-angst, high-heat like nobody’s business — no wallowing, no fifteen chapters of miscommunication, just two people who want each other and are eventually smart enough to say so.

If Holden was any indication, expect this to move fast and burn hot, with just enough emotional texture underneath the spice that it doesn’t feel like filler. Perfect for when you want the ache without the 400-page slow burn commitment.

[LM · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ARC for free from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for my honest review.

This is a a short and easy read. Merrick is a tattoo artist and submissive top (he’s not totally sure on that until he meets Wilder) and Wilder is a dominant bottom who is into domestic discipline and 24/7 power exchange.

I’m not a huge BDSM fan but this was really good because it was informative and heavy on boundaries and consent. It is also a very sweet love story about Merrick learning he can be loved just how he is (someone who talks a lot) and Wilder learning that he can love someone without losing himself.

Super spicy. D/s, corporal punishment, and no break up.

[Beth King · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me cry... and I really font think that ws Hawthornes goal.

As a former child turned adult who has always talked too much, surrounded by people who found it to be too much or an annoyance, this book hit me in my feels.

It was just as spicy as the first book in the Ink and Embers series, but Kate does a good job of packing in emotion and relationship growth in between and even during the spicy scenes they write.

This was a very quick read, maybe like 4 hours total, but there was a lot in this book that made is great.

I can't wait to pick up number three.

Happy reading

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Merrick does not feel his value and has been settling for encounters thinking that no one will want him. It was one such encounter that brought Wilder into his life and in Wilder he finds a partner that sees him for who he is and likes it. Wilder wants to be with him. For Wilder he is not too much, he is enough and they work well together as long as Merrick stays out of his own head. There is spice in the bedroom for sure, but there is something more powerful in their relationship over all that makes this story interesting. It was good to find them embracing their dynamic, what worked best for them.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! The spice was spicing from the start. This is the 2nd book in the Ink and Ember series of interconnected MM standalones. And dare I say? It was better and hotter than the first book imo. I mean, Merrick and Wilder's particular dynamic and kinks they shared were hot AF. I enjoyed the different take on the D/s relationship. Beyond the spice, the emotional notes all hit with just the right amount of sweetness and romance.

It's a fast-paced hot read with a satisfying HEA.


Tropes:
Instalust
Praise
Free use
Dom/sub
Kink
Hirt/Comfort

3rd person Dual POV

Check TW

Thank you, GRR and Kate Hawthorne, for the opportunity to read this book.

[Tatiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

A straightforward, easy romance with a focus on navigating D/s kink. It was interesting and informative. It was comforting to see the MCs find their match and Merrick finding a place to be himself. I loved the trope-bending.

Toward the end the pain and control of the kink got too intense for me, but it was all negotiated and consensual.

Merrick’s past, from trauma to issues with his brother, felt unresolved but I was glad we got the character complexity without getting bogged down by it.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[A reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merrick & Wilder 🌅

Loving this series. Low angst, high heat, and, all around, just a great read with some kink. Merrick is Bryce's older brother. He is the chattiest chatter bug to ever chat. While some may find that annoying, Wilder finds it to be incredibly endearing and he loves to hear Merrick talk. Their roles in the bedroom is something that isn't represented frequently and I absolutely loved it. Refreshing and super hot. If you're looking for a quick read, something not so serious and heavy, give this a gander!

**ARC for honest review**