What do you think?
Rate this book
Dirty #6
Grit
Link and Rocky's story continues.
Three. This is my number. The sum of reasons why I continue to go on.
One: She needs me.
Two: I have to protect her.
And three: With her, I feel human.
But the weight of a man’s secrets is a thousand pounds on his shoulders. Two thousand more on his chest. Trapping him.
Crushing him.
My secrets are slaughtering me.
Fear and regret—of what I’ve done, of whom I’ve become, and of what I’ve let go—are dragging me into a hole, and I can’t claw my way out.
The deeper I sink, the farther I push her away.
The farther she goes, the more my mind spirals. Down into a black abyss. It’s dark here. So damn dark.
She needs to know what I’ve done. I have to tell her. But how can I battle the darkness if I lose my light?
This is what my life is now. I’m a shadow of a man in a scarred body, longing to live again.
*THIS IS THE FULL-LENGTH SEQUEL TO THE DIRTY NOVELLA SERIES. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU READ THIS AFTER READING THE DIRTY SERIES.
**DUE TO STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT AND SCENES OF VIOLENCE, THIS SERIES IS RECOMMENDED FOR READERS 18+ ONLY.
Three. This is my number. The sum of reasons why I continue to go on.
One: She needs me.
Two: I have to protect her.
And three: With her, I feel human.
But the weight of a man’s secrets is a thousand pounds on his shoulders. Two thousand more on his chest. Trapping him.
Crushing him.
My secrets are slaughtering me.
Fear and regret—of what I’ve done, of whom I’ve become, and of what I’ve let go—are dragging me into a hole, and I can’t claw my way out.
The deeper I sink, the farther I push her away.
The farther she goes, the more my mind spirals. Down into a black abyss. It’s dark here. So damn dark.
She needs to know what I’ve done. I have to tell her. But how can I battle the darkness if I lose my light?
This is what my life is now. I’m a shadow of a man in a scarred body, longing to live again.
*THIS IS THE FULL-LENGTH SEQUEL TO THE DIRTY NOVELLA SERIES. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT YOU READ THIS AFTER READING THE DIRTY SERIES.
**DUE TO STRONG SEXUAL CONTENT AND SCENES OF VIOLENCE, THIS SERIES IS RECOMMENDED FOR READERS 18+ ONLY.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 29, 2015
5 people are currently reading
591 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl McIntyre
37 books2,160 followersStay up to date on all of Cheryl’s new releases by joining her newsletter here:
http://bit.ly/1C2azm3
Cheryl McIntyre is the author of the bestselling Sometimes Never series, as well as the Dirty series, Infinitely, Dark Calling, Villain, and HARD. She resides in Ohio with her high school sweetheart, their two sons, one daughter, one fur son, and a hamster.
You can follow her author page on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter—though she has not yet mastered the art of tweeting—on Amazon, BookBub, tsū, Instagram, Pinterest, or on her website. You can also join her newsletter to receive information about new releases and current sales.
Find Cheryl
Website:
http://cherylmcintyrebooks.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/CherylMcInty...
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/CherylHMcIntyre
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Amazon Author Central page:
http://www.amazon.com/CherylMcIntyre/...
BookBub:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/chery...
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/cherylmcint...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/chm22480/
tsū:
https://www.tsu.co/CherylMcIntyreAuthor
http://bit.ly/1C2azm3
Cheryl McIntyre is the author of the bestselling Sometimes Never series, as well as the Dirty series, Infinitely, Dark Calling, Villain, and HARD. She resides in Ohio with her high school sweetheart, their two sons, one daughter, one fur son, and a hamster.
You can follow her author page on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter—though she has not yet mastered the art of tweeting—on Amazon, BookBub, tsū, Instagram, Pinterest, or on her website. You can also join her newsletter to receive information about new releases and current sales.
Find Cheryl
Website:
http://cherylmcintyrebooks.com/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/CherylMcInty...
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/CherylHMcIntyre
Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Amazon Author Central page:
http://www.amazon.com/CherylMcIntyre/...
BookBub:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/chery...
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/cherylmcint...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/chm22480/
tsū:
https://www.tsu.co/CherylMcIntyreAuthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 29, 2015
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest Review}
She is my second chance at living, at loving . The realization washes over me, settling in my chest like an anchor, holding me in place. Everything I never had with Livie, I could have now with Rocky. All I need is to let it happen.
WOW!!
This series is simply fantastic. Each book successfully kept me captivated. I fell in love with Link and Rocky. My heart ached for these two broken souls and I hoped that they would find true happiness together. I wanted their future to heal the gut wrenching pain of the past. I can’t even tell you how anxious I have been to get my hands on this book! I want to say a huge THANK YOU to Ms McIntyre for giving these two an ending that left me so satisfied that I am happy to put this story to rest now.
Link and Rocky are trying to move on with their lives together. All of the men who raped and murdered Livvie and attacked Link, are now either dead or in prison. They should be feeling optimistic about their future but they’re both still very affected by the past. Link holds on to the guilt for not being able to protect Livvie and hasn’t been able to let her go. He feels that he is betraying her by moving on with Rocky and every day his heart is being filled that much more by Rocky which means the space held for Livvie gets smaller and smaller. His biggest fear now is that he will fail Rocky the same way he did Livvie, since he almost didn’t make it in time to save Rocky from Carter Bates. He worries that someone else will try to get to Rocky and he won’t be able to protect her.
Rocky is very much shaken by the break in and recent attack by Carter. She also is haunted by the rape that occurred when she was in High School. This upsets Link because he wants her to feel safe with him. Their lives are about to change in a huge way, which causes Link to want to ensure that none of the threats from their past make a reappearance. They both end up making some bad decisions and do things that puts their relationship in jeopardy.
Link and Rocky have fallen in love but neither comes right out and confesses their feelings. Rocky is afraid that Livvie still has Link’s heart and believes that she will always come in second. But Link is falling hard for Rocky and is afraid that something will come along to take it all away from him.
I had thought that this was going to be one huge epilogue since all the bad guys had been dealt with by the time we got to the end of book five, but I actually enjoyed the fact that there were still some loose ends to tie up, because that meant we got some action and tense moments. There were times I worried that Link and Rocky were not going to get their HEA.
Those of you who read the DIRTY series, will not be disappointed with this conclusion to Link and Rocky’s story. I highly recommend the entire series. It has been pretty amazing from beginning to end.
You can currently purchase Dirty 1 -5 for only 99 cents on Amazon US!!
http://amzn.to/1UfbJEY
{ARC Generously Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest Review}
She is my second chance at living, at loving . The realization washes over me, settling in my chest like an anchor, holding me in place. Everything I never had with Livie, I could have now with Rocky. All I need is to let it happen.
WOW!!
This series is simply fantastic. Each book successfully kept me captivated. I fell in love with Link and Rocky. My heart ached for these two broken souls and I hoped that they would find true happiness together. I wanted their future to heal the gut wrenching pain of the past. I can’t even tell you how anxious I have been to get my hands on this book! I want to say a huge THANK YOU to Ms McIntyre for giving these two an ending that left me so satisfied that I am happy to put this story to rest now.
Link and Rocky are trying to move on with their lives together. All of the men who raped and murdered Livvie and attacked Link, are now either dead or in prison. They should be feeling optimistic about their future but they’re both still very affected by the past. Link holds on to the guilt for not being able to protect Livvie and hasn’t been able to let her go. He feels that he is betraying her by moving on with Rocky and every day his heart is being filled that much more by Rocky which means the space held for Livvie gets smaller and smaller. His biggest fear now is that he will fail Rocky the same way he did Livvie, since he almost didn’t make it in time to save Rocky from Carter Bates. He worries that someone else will try to get to Rocky and he won’t be able to protect her.
Rocky is very much shaken by the break in and recent attack by Carter. She also is haunted by the rape that occurred when she was in High School. This upsets Link because he wants her to feel safe with him. Their lives are about to change in a huge way, which causes Link to want to ensure that none of the threats from their past make a reappearance. They both end up making some bad decisions and do things that puts their relationship in jeopardy.
Link and Rocky have fallen in love but neither comes right out and confesses their feelings. Rocky is afraid that Livvie still has Link’s heart and believes that she will always come in second. But Link is falling hard for Rocky and is afraid that something will come along to take it all away from him.
I had thought that this was going to be one huge epilogue since all the bad guys had been dealt with by the time we got to the end of book five, but I actually enjoyed the fact that there were still some loose ends to tie up, because that meant we got some action and tense moments. There were times I worried that Link and Rocky were not going to get their HEA.
Those of you who read the DIRTY series, will not be disappointed with this conclusion to Link and Rocky’s story. I highly recommend the entire series. It has been pretty amazing from beginning to end.
You can currently purchase Dirty 1 -5 for only 99 cents on Amazon US!!
http://amzn.to/1UfbJEY
January 3, 2016
4 Stars!!
“Grit” is the sixth and final installment in Cheryl McIntyre’s series entitled “Dirty” and tells the story of Link and Rocky, characters we met in the previously books in the series. If you haven’t read this series, I highly recommend it to you. Each installment is fantastically written, intense, emotional and/or sexy and honestly each one of them it was gripping from the very beginning.
Even if both Link and Rocky are damaged, they try as best as they can to move on. Link is still a tortured man. After all, he did some things that maybe will haunt him forever. When his ex-girlfriend Olivia died, a part of him died with her, but meeting Rocky changed him. He never wanted to care about another woman again, but Rocky broke down his walls.
Rocky in a short time became his weakness, his everything and all he wants is to protect her from everything and everyone, to do a better job than he did with Olivia.
Rocky is ready to fight – for herself and also for Link. She’s ready to fight because she cares. She knows she can’t be the girl who was BEFORE, but she’s ok with that, because she’s learning to be ok with who she is now. And she knows Link is there to help her do that.
This was such a great conclusion to Link and Rocky’s story. In some way this was my favorite installment in the series. I liked the pace of the story, the writing and of course the two main characters, Link and Rocky.
Rocky was a fantastic heroine from the beginning, but in this installment I liked her even more. She was truly a fighter, a great heroine really. I loved her strength, her determination and of course her love for Link. In some way she healed Link, maybe not all of him, but definitely a good part of him and I just loved her bunches for that.
Link was great in this installment. A great hero and a great man for Rocky. His past broke my heart. I remember I felt so much for him when I was reading the other installments, especially the first. He truly cared for Rocky and his want to protect her was simply heartwarming.
Once again the dynamic between these two characters was fantastic. They really were good for each other and their connection was palpable here as much as it was in the other installments.
One of my favorite parts of this installment was the last chapter. It was simply lovely, full of hope and I loved every word!
Overall, a fantastic read and like I mentioned above – if you haven’t read this series pick it up ASAP. You won’t regret it!
"Past has taught me fate is neither friend nor foe. Fate does what fate wants, no matter the consequences.”
“Grit” is the sixth and final installment in Cheryl McIntyre’s series entitled “Dirty” and tells the story of Link and Rocky, characters we met in the previously books in the series. If you haven’t read this series, I highly recommend it to you. Each installment is fantastically written, intense, emotional and/or sexy and honestly each one of them it was gripping from the very beginning.
“One day, someone will come into your life, and you will understand what it’s like to live.
Link is that person for me.”
Even if both Link and Rocky are damaged, they try as best as they can to move on. Link is still a tortured man. After all, he did some things that maybe will haunt him forever. When his ex-girlfriend Olivia died, a part of him died with her, but meeting Rocky changed him. He never wanted to care about another woman again, but Rocky broke down his walls.
Rocky in a short time became his weakness, his everything and all he wants is to protect her from everything and everyone, to do a better job than he did with Olivia.
“…she somehow managed to make my heart beat again. She makes me want to live. To enjoy my second life. She makes me want…so many things I never thought I’d desire again.”
Rocky is ready to fight – for herself and also for Link. She’s ready to fight because she cares. She knows she can’t be the girl who was BEFORE, but she’s ok with that, because she’s learning to be ok with who she is now. And she knows Link is there to help her do that.
This was such a great conclusion to Link and Rocky’s story. In some way this was my favorite installment in the series. I liked the pace of the story, the writing and of course the two main characters, Link and Rocky.
Rocky was a fantastic heroine from the beginning, but in this installment I liked her even more. She was truly a fighter, a great heroine really. I loved her strength, her determination and of course her love for Link. In some way she healed Link, maybe not all of him, but definitely a good part of him and I just loved her bunches for that.
“He sees me. All the good, and all the bad, and he desires me—not in spite of it, but because of it.”
Link was great in this installment. A great hero and a great man for Rocky. His past broke my heart. I remember I felt so much for him when I was reading the other installments, especially the first. He truly cared for Rocky and his want to protect her was simply heartwarming.
Once again the dynamic between these two characters was fantastic. They really were good for each other and their connection was palpable here as much as it was in the other installments.
One of my favorite parts of this installment was the last chapter. It was simply lovely, full of hope and I loved every word!
Overall, a fantastic read and like I mentioned above – if you haven’t read this series pick it up ASAP. You won’t regret it!
December 31, 2015
Thank you Cheryl McIntire for writing this book. I was one of the few that felt the couple needed more after the last book. Also, thank you so much for gifting the last chapter of the last book because friends know I have a terrible memory!!
I found this final book in the series important and relevant. There are several loose ends regarding: Carter Bates who is one of the attackers that is now arrested. Link’s fear that he won’t be able to protect Rocky in the future and then of course there is his devotion to his dead girlfriend, Olivia.
”Mine, though I never claim her as such. Mine though I never allow her to claim me. But she is mine. And though she doesn’t know it, I want to be hers. I just don’t know how.”
Link struggles with his fears, his past, and the undeniable feelings he has for Rocky. His transformation in this final book worked well for me. I felt that the fast HEA in the last book seemed shaky. Here however, Link and Rocky heal, become strong together and although there past isn’t gone they learn to move forward together.
”My devotion for you,” he breathes, “is greater than all other things.”
[image error]
This couple has been through hell and I was so happy where they end up in this final installment. I highly recommend this series and for a limited time all the previous books in the series are on sale as a bundle for .99! http://amzn.to/1mhjZdt
January 3, 2016
5 Satisfied Stars!
At the end of the fifth book in the Dirty series I wanted more. So imagine my surprise when I'm on here and I see a friend reading my more that I wanted. I was not disappointed!
I loved both Link and Rocky and I'm so damn happy they got their HEA!! They both deserved it after the awful things that happened to them both.
If you're like me and you wasn't satisfied at the then of the series then you better go get this one and read it.
Thanks CM for giving me the more I needed:))
The Dirty series bundle (all 5 books) are on sale for .99 on Amazon!
http://www.amazon.com/Five-Part-Seria...
At the end of the fifth book in the Dirty series I wanted more. So imagine my surprise when I'm on here and I see a friend reading my more that I wanted. I was not disappointed!
I loved both Link and Rocky and I'm so damn happy they got their HEA!! They both deserved it after the awful things that happened to them both.
If you're like me and you wasn't satisfied at the then of the series then you better go get this one and read it.
Thanks CM for giving me the more I needed:))
The Dirty series bundle (all 5 books) are on sale for .99 on Amazon!
http://www.amazon.com/Five-Part-Seria...
January 10, 2016
4.5 "My little fighter" STARS
Stand alone or series? It really doesn’t matter to me as long as the story is GOOD and the wait between books isn’t AGES. If you’re looking for a raw, gritty, heartbreaking and also hopeful series, this baby is the one!!
Seriously, Rocky and Link’s story was just so dark, visceral that I couldn’t put the series down. And when it ended, despite how riveting it was and the inkling of a HEA at the end, it left me wanting more. So when I saw that Ms. McIntyre had gifted us this final installment, I couldn’t have been happier.
This takes place in the aftermath of Link’s quest for vengeance. Link tries to navigate daily life without the drive and purpose of avenging Olivia’s death. He feels guilt for finding love and happiness in Rocky’s arms. A betrayal to what he had with Olivia. He strives to find a way to move forward and find some sort of peace with his horrific past.
“But this is my serenity. These little moments with her. Her touch. Her laugh. Her.”
While Rocky struggles with wondering what’s next for them. Will she always be second place in Link’s life?
“I’ve tried to never let it bother me that the man I love has another woman’s name tattooed over his heart, but it’s difficult.”
Can she settle for second spot and have a future together?
“He may not have fixed what’s broken inside of me – because nobody can do that – but he helps me be okay with being damaged.”
This final book takes you on a journey through closure, hope and the promise better days for these two beautiful yet broken souls.
------------------------------
Before reading:
OMG, I didn't know this had come out!!! Up next for sure!!
Stand alone or series? It really doesn’t matter to me as long as the story is GOOD and the wait between books isn’t AGES. If you’re looking for a raw, gritty, heartbreaking and also hopeful series, this baby is the one!!
Seriously, Rocky and Link’s story was just so dark, visceral that I couldn’t put the series down. And when it ended, despite how riveting it was and the inkling of a HEA at the end, it left me wanting more. So when I saw that Ms. McIntyre had gifted us this final installment, I couldn’t have been happier.
This takes place in the aftermath of Link’s quest for vengeance. Link tries to navigate daily life without the drive and purpose of avenging Olivia’s death. He feels guilt for finding love and happiness in Rocky’s arms. A betrayal to what he had with Olivia. He strives to find a way to move forward and find some sort of peace with his horrific past.
“But this is my serenity. These little moments with her. Her touch. Her laugh. Her.”
While Rocky struggles with wondering what’s next for them. Will she always be second place in Link’s life?
“I’ve tried to never let it bother me that the man I love has another woman’s name tattooed over his heart, but it’s difficult.”
Can she settle for second spot and have a future together?
“He may not have fixed what’s broken inside of me – because nobody can do that – but he helps me be okay with being damaged.”
This final book takes you on a journey through closure, hope and the promise better days for these two beautiful yet broken souls.
------------------------------
Before reading:
OMG, I didn't know this had come out!!! Up next for sure!!
January 3, 2016
I was a little excited when I saw a friend reading an early copy of this book. It was way back in May 2014 when I read the final book (or what I thought was the final book) of the Dirty Series. I was more than a little surprised to find that although the author does give you a quick recap (including the final chapters of the last book); I did not need it one bit. I started this and instantly I was right back there with Link and Rocky.
With Grit I was sort of expecting just an extended epilogue of sorts, although I had no doubts at the end of Dirty 5 that these two would make it, I was more than happy to indulge.
As Rocky and Link continue on their relationship, their past still is very present and some loose ends still need to be dealt with before any sort of future can happen. But it isn’t all about vengeance and revenge anymore. It’s about protection and not failing again. It’s a story of second chances and learning to let go of the past and accept the gift of being given a chance at having something different and more, and most of all... letting go of the guilt that comes with those revelations.
Link and Rocky aren’t given a paved road to their happily ever after, their road is riddled with potholes and every bump life can throw at them. But together they forge ahead. Watching both these characters transform over this series has been an absolute pleasure and although I really, really enjoyed this book I think the one thing that keeps me from giving it a full five stars is that it contained too much sex.
GASPS
I know. I know. But hear me out. For the first part of this story it felt like every chapter had detailed sex – that is usually something I love, but it what I really wanted was the story – the suspense and drama. As the story unfolds and things get heated up, I was so captivated and unable to look away. And I did notice the shift, that at the start these two showed their feelings by being physical and by the end, they didn’t need to express it quite the same way, so the sex became less frequent – so in that sense, it was all part of the story – it all worked to showcase the story – and it is no fault of the author that this reader just wanted to bite my nails and watch everything unfold rather than get hot and heavy with these two (which in a way tells you how great of a job she did giving you the story – because that is what mattered the most to me in the end.)
Overall a solid 4 star (nudged a bit closer to a 5) and a fantastic ending for these two. For fans of the series, this bonus release is not to be missed, the story did not end with Dirty 5; you’ll need to find out what fate has in store for these two! For new readers, although Grit can probably be read as a standalone (as the author indicates), I urge you to pick up the five part series – connecting to these characters through their story – their actions means everything when it comes to falling in love with them.
With Grit I was sort of expecting just an extended epilogue of sorts, although I had no doubts at the end of Dirty 5 that these two would make it, I was more than happy to indulge.
As Rocky and Link continue on their relationship, their past still is very present and some loose ends still need to be dealt with before any sort of future can happen. But it isn’t all about vengeance and revenge anymore. It’s about protection and not failing again. It’s a story of second chances and learning to let go of the past and accept the gift of being given a chance at having something different and more, and most of all... letting go of the guilt that comes with those revelations.
Link and Rocky aren’t given a paved road to their happily ever after, their road is riddled with potholes and every bump life can throw at them. But together they forge ahead. Watching both these characters transform over this series has been an absolute pleasure and although I really, really enjoyed this book I think the one thing that keeps me from giving it a full five stars is that it contained too much sex.
GASPS
I know. I know. But hear me out. For the first part of this story it felt like every chapter had detailed sex – that is usually something I love, but it what I really wanted was the story – the suspense and drama. As the story unfolds and things get heated up, I was so captivated and unable to look away. And I did notice the shift, that at the start these two showed their feelings by being physical and by the end, they didn’t need to express it quite the same way, so the sex became less frequent – so in that sense, it was all part of the story – it all worked to showcase the story – and it is no fault of the author that this reader just wanted to bite my nails and watch everything unfold rather than get hot and heavy with these two (which in a way tells you how great of a job she did giving you the story – because that is what mattered the most to me in the end.)
Overall a solid 4 star (nudged a bit closer to a 5) and a fantastic ending for these two. For fans of the series, this bonus release is not to be missed, the story did not end with Dirty 5; you’ll need to find out what fate has in store for these two! For new readers, although Grit can probably be read as a standalone (as the author indicates), I urge you to pick up the five part series – connecting to these characters through their story – their actions means everything when it comes to falling in love with them.
May 6, 2020
Beşinci kitabın sonunda herhangi bir sonsöz olmamasına sinir olup sonrasında yazarın yeni kitap açıklamasını okuyunca çok sevinmiştim.
Yıllar sonra nihayet aklıma geldi de okudum kitabı :))
Böylelikle Link, Rocky ve Livvie'nin hikayesi de sona ermiş oldu.
Yıllar sonra nihayet aklıma geldi de okudum kitabı :))
Böylelikle Link, Rocky ve Livvie'nin hikayesi de sona ermiş oldu.
January 27, 2016
I thought this was a great finish to Link and Rocky's story. I was glad that everything was answered in this book. All the issues that were left kind of hanging after the final installment of the Dirty serial were completed in this book.
My only complaint would be, that I don't think it needed to be a full length novel. I think we would've gotten the same answers and endings with a shorter book. Not as short as the serial novellas were, but maybe half the length of this book. I think there was some extra things in this book that didn't really need to be in there. That's just my opinion.
I am still very glad I read this book and the Dirty series. I will say that after this series, I definitely need a light a fluffy love story :)
My only complaint would be, that I don't think it needed to be a full length novel. I think we would've gotten the same answers and endings with a shorter book. Not as short as the serial novellas were, but maybe half the length of this book. I think there was some extra things in this book that didn't really need to be in there. That's just my opinion.
I am still very glad I read this book and the Dirty series. I will say that after this series, I definitely need a light a fluffy love story :)
December 29, 2015
A Character-driven, Smart, and Real Love Story
You could read Grit separately from Dirty, the first book about Link and Rocky, but I agree with the author that the reader would enjoy it even more by starting at the beginning. Also, if you haven't read Dirty yet, after Grit, you'll obsess and dive straight into Dirty anyway.
Cheryl McIntyre has die-hard fans who reads everything she writes, and I understand why: it's the consistency in her authorship. If you crave character-driven, smart, and real love stories of the kind that put your heart through the wringer, then hers are must-reads. Where Dirty was a dark, violent romance treating crimes not often spoken about, Grit picks up and focuses on what happens after that happily-ever-after of the first book. I can count on one hand the dark romances who have gone there - beyond that HEA - to follow the characters' lives without inventing some new adventure to push them into.
"Link's quest for revenge ended in my redemption. Or so I thought. The part I didn't fully understand is that recovery is a process." This is how the first chapter begins. When two permanently scarred humans try to digest their pasts, how do they manage their guilts and fears, meld them with their day-to-day routines? Exactly how strong does their love need to be for them to survive as a couple?
The banter with Link's guy friends at the gym made for a nuanced book. It made me smile, even laugh at times. Then there's the subtle sexiness that is Link himself. His innate protective attitude toward Rocky, and his penchant for what Rocky calls "one of the many perks of working at his gym:" office sex with the boss.
Sometimes, their dialog is masterfully simple, cute, and hot all at once:
"I want you," he husks. "Right here. Right now."
"That's good," I breathe, "because I want to give myself to you. Right here. Right now."
But then with seamless expertise Cheryl brings us back to the essence of what Link and Rocky face: "Life is an ugly and wondrous thing. It beats you to a pulp and rewards you for surviving. Over and over, it's an endless loop of ups and downs. Goods, and bads. Pleasures and pains. Gifts and losses. We power through."
We know Rocky and Link so well by the end of this book. We root for them. We love them. And Grit is easily on my top ten list for 2015.
December 31, 2015
I have read this entire series with this book being the 6th & I guess the final chapter.They are all darkly perfect.There is no sunshine here & the only flowers you will see are the ones given to the dead.There is other women drama,one in particular & it's her ghost that is the fuel that drives the hero on his quest for unholy vengeance.
There is no cheating.The hero is totally consumed by one dead woman & one that is living so there is no space for that.So if you want to ride with him as he slowly untangles himself from the dark grave of his mind towards that one single woman than this series is for you.This is one of the best dark romance series of 2016.
There is no cheating.The hero is totally consumed by one dead woman & one that is living so there is no space for that.So if you want to ride with him as he slowly untangles himself from the dark grave of his mind towards that one single woman than this series is for you.This is one of the best dark romance series of 2016.
December 26, 2015
BRILLIANT! If you haven't read the DIRTY series, I highly recommend it. And if you have, this is a magnificent conclusion to Link & Rocky's story.
Review to come after release.
Review to come after release.
January 8, 2016
★★★★ Stars!
July 29, 2017
A just ok ending to a fantastic serial.
January 5, 2016
I was hesitant to pick up this book. I thought Dirty ended in a good place so I was thinking this book was unnecessary and I wouldn't like it. That wasn't the case. I thought Grit was a great conclusion. It wrapped up Link's struggle with revenge and his need to let Livvie go to fully move on with Rocky. The epilogue made me cry. Nicely done!
January 11, 2016
I was thrilled when I saw this sequel. I really enjoyed the Dirty series. Though this sequel wasn't absolutely needed, after I read it, I was happy it was written. Awesome conclusion to Link & Rocky's journey!
March 12, 2024
Sweet justice and closure
December 29, 2015
Roxie and Jen's Review
You have to read Dirty first in order to enjoy Grit. We’re not gonna lie—as much as we loved Dirty, we also felt like the story was finished. We went into Grit with some doubts and OMG WERE WE WRONG!!! This is a book we didn't think we wanted yet we loved 100% with all our hearts.
We fell in love with Rocky and Link in Dirty. Grit sealed the deal completely.
Swoon. God we loved Link. LOVE HIM!!!
The struggles of normality in a wake of personal tragedies are heartbreaking for these two. Is there really a normal after what they’ve been through? Is there a true happily ever after for people with so much damage?
Cheryl McIntyre did truly amazing job showing us all the hardship and difficulties of two people fighting for their bliss among despair. Accepting that they deserve to move on and start anew while fighting guilt and nightmares daily.
Second chances are hard to come by when you feel wrong and undeserving.
Rocky and Link’s story came to a full circle in Grit. And we loved every minute of it!!!
Dirty and Grit—MUST READ!!!
You have to read Dirty first in order to enjoy Grit. We’re not gonna lie—as much as we loved Dirty, we also felt like the story was finished. We went into Grit with some doubts and OMG WERE WE WRONG!!! This is a book we didn't think we wanted yet we loved 100% with all our hearts.
We fell in love with Rocky and Link in Dirty. Grit sealed the deal completely.
“There are a million ways to say I love you. And Link has been telling me in his own way.
Like: “I don’t want to lose you” or, “I don’t want to make the same mistakes with you” or, “I think about how I don’t want anything more to ever happen to you” or, “With every breath of my being, I do not want to fail you.” And my favorite as of twenty seconds ago “You’re my home.”
Swoon. God we loved Link. LOVE HIM!!!
The struggles of normality in a wake of personal tragedies are heartbreaking for these two. Is there really a normal after what they’ve been through? Is there a true happily ever after for people with so much damage?
Cheryl McIntyre did truly amazing job showing us all the hardship and difficulties of two people fighting for their bliss among despair. Accepting that they deserve to move on and start anew while fighting guilt and nightmares daily.
Second chances are hard to come by when you feel wrong and undeserving.
Rocky and Link’s story came to a full circle in Grit. And we loved every minute of it!!!
Dirty and Grit—MUST READ!!!
February 21, 2017
4.5 stars. I loved the end to Link and Rocky's story.
June 29, 2016
So I am finally getting back to write this books thoughts and highlights. If you didn't read Dirty 1-5 you will get a small teaser in the beginning of this book but lets be honest don't do that to yourself. You would be doing yourself a huge disservice. So Rocky and Link are at it again and i'm sorry the sex is too hot to put down the book. Rocky and Link are survivor's they draw so much strength from one another. But inner demons cause Link to pull away from Rocky at times and her insercurites has her making unthoughtout quick decisions that cause the relationship to shift. Ahhh this book is what I call....A waiting to exhale read.
You sit and invest so much interest, they break your heart, you feel for them. You are so engrossed with the personal struggles of these two and you can't take a moment to exhale.
I was in it for the HEA. Lord did we get that but I can't tell you what happens because that would just be mean. Pick it up and read it if your not easy effected by emotional/sexual triggers.
You sit and invest so much interest, they break your heart, you feel for them. You are so engrossed with the personal struggles of these two and you can't take a moment to exhale.
I was in it for the HEA. Lord did we get that but I can't tell you what happens because that would just be mean. Pick it up and read it if your not easy effected by emotional/sexual triggers.
September 25, 2022
3.5 stars
I liked this book better than the first half of the story (books 1-5), but I still had some issues.
I felt sorry for Rocky. She put up with a lot. Link spends a lot of time dwelling on the past but telling himself he needs to move on, but doesn’t. I believe he loves Rocky, but it doesn’t feel like she’s the true love of his life. Olivia did not deserve the ending she got to her life and I am gutted for both Olivia and Link for how their story ended. But I really didn’t want it shoved in my face how much Rocky’s hair is like Olivia’s or other such comparisons. Or how he seems to spend more time thinking of the past than thinking of his love with Rocky. And I definitely wasn’t a fan of the baby’s name and WHY (i.e the tattoo). Kind of put a damper on their HEA.
I’m still glad I read it. I love the author’s writing, and I look forward to reading more from her. I just wish I didn’t feel like in some ways, Rocky would always be second best.
I liked this book better than the first half of the story (books 1-5), but I still had some issues.
I felt sorry for Rocky. She put up with a lot. Link spends a lot of time dwelling on the past but telling himself he needs to move on, but doesn’t. I believe he loves Rocky, but it doesn’t feel like she’s the true love of his life. Olivia did not deserve the ending she got to her life and I am gutted for both Olivia and Link for how their story ended. But I really didn’t want it shoved in my face how much Rocky’s hair is like Olivia’s or other such comparisons. Or how he seems to spend more time thinking of the past than thinking of his love with Rocky. And I definitely wasn’t a fan of the baby’s name and WHY (i.e the tattoo). Kind of put a damper on their HEA.
I’m still glad I read it. I love the author’s writing, and I look forward to reading more from her. I just wish I didn’t feel like in some ways, Rocky would always be second best.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2016
This book has been sitting on my TBR list for ages and from the very first page I started kicking myself for leaving it for so long. Dirty was a 5 star novella series for me and this follow up was nothing short of brilliant. Told in dual POVs this fast paced and captivating dark romance is about second chances in life and love.
Cheryl McIntyre is a masterful storyteller. She puts you in the moment and you're left experiencing it right along with the characters. I soaked up every page, every twist and turn and every struggle as Link and Rocky fought against the darkness that plagues them both. If anyone deserves to feel free it's these two scarred character. How do you nurture a love when you never expected to feel anything ever again? A heart pumping conclusion to a great series.
Cheryl McIntyre is a masterful storyteller. She puts you in the moment and you're left experiencing it right along with the characters. I soaked up every page, every twist and turn and every struggle as Link and Rocky fought against the darkness that plagues them both. If anyone deserves to feel free it's these two scarred character. How do you nurture a love when you never expected to feel anything ever again? A heart pumping conclusion to a great series.
January 5, 2016
A gritty journey to the conclusion I've been begging for!
Thank you to the author for finally giving me more of Rocky and Link. After reading and loving the Dirty series, I had to get my hands on this gem even though I knew that the ride to HEA was gonna be pretty unsavoury.
I now feel more at peace with Link and Rocky's story and am satisfied with how it all concluded (finally!).
Told in dual, alternating POV's and MUST be read in book order to understand the series as a whole.
Thank you to the author for finally giving me more of Rocky and Link. After reading and loving the Dirty series, I had to get my hands on this gem even though I knew that the ride to HEA was gonna be pretty unsavoury.
I now feel more at peace with Link and Rocky's story and am satisfied with how it all concluded (finally!).
Told in dual, alternating POV's and MUST be read in book order to understand the series as a whole.
February 14, 2016
I loved Dirty so much I thought about it for days after finishing it. I didn't realize that there was a sequel coming out, so when I found it I was jumping up and down. It was a great way to bring an ending to Rocky and Link's story.
March 28, 2016
This was THE perfect ending to this series!!!
"Life is a Puzzle (We're all just piecing it together as we go.)"
"Life is a Puzzle (We're all just piecing it together as we go.)"
Want to read
December 27, 2015Holy shit!!! How did I not know there was another book to this amazing series!!! This is a must read, I fell for Link and rockys story and to have more of it is fucking awesome!!
July 26, 2017
After completing this series I don't know how many boxes of tissue I have used up but I a very depressing series with a very sens matter.
Rocky is a very strong women with a fighters spirit.What happened to her had only made her num to any kind of emotion.Links story is no different but his ideals were different .
Peaple who are totally into hearts and flowers this is not a book for u as it has a very dark story line .
Everytime some development was shown in the love story Link would take it as cheating over his dead lover which kind of pissed me off at every point of the story.Till the last part he was stuck on levi not ready to accept the fact that now he has someones heart attached to his.
Due to the dark theme of the story it was kind of depressing and made me want to go and hide in some hole .I actually did not actually got an idea how did they fall in love .It felt like at some point something would occur and they but be drifted apart but thank god that did not happen or I would have lost my mind.
Some things that make me wonder are
1.How did the heroine fall for a man who till the last date was in love with his ex and was not able make space for her.
2.The story had a lot and lot of sex to be direct making them look like horny bunnies .
3.The crime commited by Link were not even suspended for once not even for a single moment.Really there history was not that clean.
4.The story line is kind of very long term type.Even when the conclusion came it felt line it was not complete .
But with all the short. coming and all the problems the books ending made me feel much better.
Rocky is a very strong women with a fighters spirit.What happened to her had only made her num to any kind of emotion.Links story is no different but his ideals were different .
Peaple who are totally into hearts and flowers this is not a book for u as it has a very dark story line .
Everytime some development was shown in the love story Link would take it as cheating over his dead lover which kind of pissed me off at every point of the story.Till the last part he was stuck on levi not ready to accept the fact that now he has someones heart attached to his.
Due to the dark theme of the story it was kind of depressing and made me want to go and hide in some hole .I actually did not actually got an idea how did they fall in love .It felt like at some point something would occur and they but be drifted apart but thank god that did not happen or I would have lost my mind.
Some things that make me wonder are
1.How did the heroine fall for a man who till the last date was in love with his ex and was not able make space for her.
2.The story had a lot and lot of sex to be direct making them look like horny bunnies .
3.The crime commited by Link were not even suspended for once not even for a single moment.Really there history was not that clean.
4.The story line is kind of very long term type.Even when the conclusion came it felt line it was not complete .
But with all the short. coming and all the problems the books ending made me feel much better.
December 31, 2016
I was happy to stumble across this book showing another glimpse at Link and Rocky. Luckily it had a small recap at the beginning so I could refresh my memory since it had been a couple of years since I read the initial series. The characters made it easy to dive back in and pick up where I had left off, all of those feelings of rooting for these two individually and as a couple fell right back into place. I'm glad I found this and treated myself to another dose of this series.
January 2, 2022
Idk if I was in emotional state, but I cried throughout this book ):
it’s a HEA book don’t worry!!
but oh how I felt the sadness in every word in this book.
gahhh what a flawless book. flawless.
I thought Dirty 5 was the last book but then I saw this book and I can now sleep in peace lol.
I love Rocky, what a character. I love how the writer wrote a strong woman because Rocky was indeed a magnificent person!!
Love this book, love the series!!!!
it’s a HEA book don’t worry!!
but oh how I felt the sadness in every word in this book.
gahhh what a flawless book. flawless.
I thought Dirty 5 was the last book but then I saw this book and I can now sleep in peace lol.
I love Rocky, what a character. I love how the writer wrote a strong woman because Rocky was indeed a magnificent person!!
Love this book, love the series!!!!
March 23, 2017
It's an amazing end to a heart wrenching story. This book was filled with emotional conflict, self realization, devotion, heartache, and suspense. I love these characters and the way Cheryl McIntyre allowed their story to unfold. This is a series I am putting on my "read again and again" shelf.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews