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Atramentum
Joss Perrault left Sky, Colorado after high school with no intention of ever returning, but all that changes when she inherits Atramentum. Burned out on public accounting after too many sixteen-hour days, the allure of operating a small, independent bookstore is too tempting to resist, and Joss decides to walk away from the career she spent the last decade building to move back to the resort town high in the Rockies. Cupid strikes as she’s moving into her new place outside Sky and, contrary to popular belief, Cupid has four legs and a tail, hits like a linebacker, and answers to the name George. Before Joss can recover from being tackled by the Great Dane, she finds herself face to face with George's mom, Maeve Dylan. Joss is immediately smitten with her beautiful neighbor, but their conversations walk the line between friendliness and flirtation like it’s a tightrope, and Joss is reluctant to do anything that will risk their budding friendship. Thankfully for her, however, George doesn't give up so easily.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2016
113 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Duncan
17 books431 followersMJ Duncan is a Southern California girl who traded in her surfboard for hockey skates when she moved to Minnesota. When not writing, MJ enjoys reading, climbing, swimming, and spending time with her family. You can also follow her on twitter (@mj_duncan) and tumblr (mjduncan).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 24, 2018
**'Nothing begins good,but everything good begins..everything can be revised,erased or rearranged later.The courage of creation is making bad beginnings eventually ends on a good note..'
Fairly decent story!
.....annoying dialogue but okay storyline i guess (i would not recommend to anyone)
Fairly decent story!
.....annoying dialogue but okay storyline i guess (i would not recommend to anyone)
March 24, 2016
When I was typing in the title of the book, I felt like I was entering in my WiFi internet modem password. A....T.....R......S...Wait, fuck (Backspace)...A...ME...N.....T....UM. You bet I wikipediaed the word, and guess what I found?
**Atramentum or atrament, generally means a very black, usually liquid, substance. For example, an octopus may emit a puff of atrament (see cephalopod ink). In ancient Rome, the term atramentum signified any black colouring substance used for any purpose**
Just a guess, I think that MJ Duncan fancies Latin / Ancient words. (Veritas, anyone?)
In Atramentum, Atramentum is the name of the bookstore that the lovely protagonist, Joss, inherits from her Aunt Helen. She decides to chuck her lonely life in Los Angeles and her career as a public accountant, for greener pastures (because anywhere is greener than LA) in Sky, Colorado to manage this charming little bookstore.
When Joss and Maeve meet, it's almost as cute as the meet-cute in the 101 Dalmatians movie.
Animal companions that are determined to play Cupid for their human companions is a recipe for a fantastic story, folks! If only this happened in real life. I tried walking my cat, Marbles once. Unfortunately, this experiment miserably failed. He refused to walk more than two steps, kept rolling around on his back and belly, and I didn't get any numbers! None! The most we got were curious (and sympathetic) stares from passersby. Ah, well. Anyone in LA need a dog-walker?
There are not two, but three main characters in this story. George certainly has enough personality to qualify. MJ Duncan, if you ever decide to do a spinoff starring George, I'm there! George helped make this a really delightful read for me. I almost miss her.
There's plenty of "will you or won't you" angst between Joss and Maeve. This mostly stems from "are you or are you not" with Maeve's sexuality. Don't you hate the guessing game? Everyone needs to wear a blinking sign, I think. The back and forth between the main characters is very sweet, and there's plenty of romance and passionate love between the pages. There's one section of the novel that readers and wordsmiths will certainly appreciate. I won't give it away, but let's just say that I had to go out for a nice looooooong run after I finished reading through it.
As with MJ Duncan's other novels, this would be perfect to pack in your suitcase to read on your next vacation get-away.
**Atramentum or atrament, generally means a very black, usually liquid, substance. For example, an octopus may emit a puff of atrament (see cephalopod ink). In ancient Rome, the term atramentum signified any black colouring substance used for any purpose**
Just a guess, I think that MJ Duncan fancies Latin / Ancient words. (Veritas, anyone?)
In Atramentum, Atramentum is the name of the bookstore that the lovely protagonist, Joss, inherits from her Aunt Helen. She decides to chuck her lonely life in Los Angeles and her career as a public accountant, for greener pastures (because anywhere is greener than LA) in Sky, Colorado to manage this charming little bookstore.
When Joss and Maeve meet, it's almost as cute as the meet-cute in the 101 Dalmatians movie.
Animal companions that are determined to play Cupid for their human companions is a recipe for a fantastic story, folks! If only this happened in real life. I tried walking my cat, Marbles once. Unfortunately, this experiment miserably failed. He refused to walk more than two steps, kept rolling around on his back and belly, and I didn't get any numbers! None! The most we got were curious (and sympathetic) stares from passersby. Ah, well. Anyone in LA need a dog-walker?
There are not two, but three main characters in this story. George certainly has enough personality to qualify. MJ Duncan, if you ever decide to do a spinoff starring George, I'm there! George helped make this a really delightful read for me. I almost miss her.
There's plenty of "will you or won't you" angst between Joss and Maeve. This mostly stems from "are you or are you not" with Maeve's sexuality. Don't you hate the guessing game? Everyone needs to wear a blinking sign, I think. The back and forth between the main characters is very sweet, and there's plenty of romance and passionate love between the pages. There's one section of the novel that readers and wordsmiths will certainly appreciate. I won't give it away, but let's just say that I had to go out for a nice looooooong run after I finished reading through it.
As with MJ Duncan's other novels, this would be perfect to pack in your suitcase to read on your next vacation get-away.
February 11, 2018
I'm torn with this book. I think it's well written: very descriptive, good character development...
There was just zero drama/angst, and I guess I like to read that sort of thing.
Joss and Maeve make a really cute couple and the sex scenes are hot, but I ended up scratching my head after reading this one. I felt like I should have enjoyed it, but I didn't?
What little drama was in this book was thrown in at the end, almost like an after thought.
I think I'll give this author another chance because this book was well written with minimal errors and that's always appreciated.
3.5 stars for this one.
There was just zero drama/angst, and I guess I like to read that sort of thing.
Joss and Maeve make a really cute couple and the sex scenes are hot, but I ended up scratching my head after reading this one. I felt like I should have enjoyed it, but I didn't?
What little drama was in this book was thrown in at the end, almost like an after thought.
I think I'll give this author another chance because this book was well written with minimal errors and that's always appreciated.
3.5 stars for this one.
March 24, 2017
Having read three of Duncan’s other books this is my least favorite. Duncan more or less keeps a consistent formula through her stories in that all of her books are straight up romances with some erotica thrown in. And, she usually has very witty dialogue and wonderful development between characters…*usually*.
In ‘Atramentum’ I found the witty dialogue to be lacking and her two leads fell flat due to their relationship and characters not having much depth. Though, that’s not exactly right. I think they do have depth but Duncan chose to have the characters explore that together *off* of the page so we’re left with more superficial conversation and less intimacy. I.e., as a reader, I would’ve enjoyed Joss talking to Maive about her family and how they affected her or have Maive to talk to Joss about her relationship past and how that forms her in present day, how did she get to Sky?, what does she love about her career or how it came to be, etc.
I wouldn’t say this is badly written but it’s along the lines of average, at least for Duncan. There’s still an enjoyable story in here but, for me, it was just not as elevated as her others. I would rate this around 3.75 stars.
As an aside, I was happy to see that the author offered us another bisexual character depicted in a positive light (the other being in her book ‘Spectrum’) and I admire her for that.
In ‘Atramentum’ I found the witty dialogue to be lacking and her two leads fell flat due to their relationship and characters not having much depth. Though, that’s not exactly right. I think they do have depth but Duncan chose to have the characters explore that together *off* of the page so we’re left with more superficial conversation and less intimacy. I.e., as a reader, I would’ve enjoyed Joss talking to Maive about her family and how they affected her or have Maive to talk to Joss about her relationship past and how that forms her in present day, how did she get to Sky?, what does she love about her career or how it came to be, etc.
I wouldn’t say this is badly written but it’s along the lines of average, at least for Duncan. There’s still an enjoyable story in here but, for me, it was just not as elevated as her others. I would rate this around 3.75 stars.
As an aside, I was happy to see that the author offered us another bisexual character depicted in a positive light (the other being in her book ‘Spectrum’) and I admire her for that.
May 8, 2017
There's a huge awesome dog that will steal your heart.
Good grief this was a sweet story I mean it's a full on fluff fest. After reading Spectrum and being thoroughly blown away by the amazing writing skills of M.J. Duncan I decided to give this book a try. Once again I was not disappointed.
Maeve and Joss are simply delightful. I loved seeing the bumbling nervous wreck that Joss became every time she was around Maeve. It was really adorable and they have amazing chemistry together. In fact, you might want to grab a cold drink before reading one of the sizzling hot sex scenes.
The only thing i missed (and this is 100% a personal preference) was angst. Sure there was a little bit at the end involving George but I personally like having my heartstrings tugged at a little which is why for now Spectrum is still my favorite by the author.
Need a feel good, super romantic, and sweet read? You will find it all in this book.
Good grief this was a sweet story I mean it's a full on fluff fest. After reading Spectrum and being thoroughly blown away by the amazing writing skills of M.J. Duncan I decided to give this book a try. Once again I was not disappointed.
Maeve and Joss are simply delightful. I loved seeing the bumbling nervous wreck that Joss became every time she was around Maeve. It was really adorable and they have amazing chemistry together. In fact, you might want to grab a cold drink before reading one of the sizzling hot sex scenes.
The only thing i missed (and this is 100% a personal preference) was angst. Sure there was a little bit at the end involving George but I personally like having my heartstrings tugged at a little which is why for now Spectrum is still my favorite by the author.
Need a feel good, super romantic, and sweet read? You will find it all in this book.
April 24, 2018
3 stars. I forgot I finished this one. From what I remember it was too repetitive and too long for what it delivered but otherwise a really sweet story.
March 24, 2020
I have read several books by Ms.Duncan they were engaging at first but towards the end, boredom caught up, I usually scurried to the finishing line and left them at the unmemorable section of my library.. This book however, yes.. It had the Hallmark Channel vibe to it. A workaholic lead returning home to take over her beloved aunt's bookstore and living at her own tempo. Everything was as expected until George, a great dane ran into Joss and knocked her down. The huge bonus part? George's mum, was not far from her four legged matchmaker and that was the set up for Joss and Maeve's love story.
Sorry, what? You're looking for drama and angst, well you came to the wrong book. Atramentum was the most laid back romance I have ever read. Yes, I devoured this on the sofa, with my feet up, my tall glass of ice water closed by and today's experiment, indoor smores as my company.
I clicked with Joss immediately, c'mon, a bookstore owner? Who can say no to that? So much lovin and free books! Then when Maeve appeared.. Before you start complaining about her name, she wrote thriller, as gorgeous as Stephanie March and she wore black.rimmed.glasses... I rest my case. Do help yourselves to my experimental smores on your way out but please, please sign the waiver form first.
Laid back, not erotica but will have your clits buzzing, swoony, romantic and extremely relaxing, Atramentum is the perfect antidote for your "when you're worried and you can't sleep, you count your blessings instead of sheep" moment of your life.
Enjoy 👓
Sorry, what? You're looking for drama and angst, well you came to the wrong book. Atramentum was the most laid back romance I have ever read. Yes, I devoured this on the sofa, with my feet up, my tall glass of ice water closed by and today's experiment, indoor smores as my company.
I clicked with Joss immediately, c'mon, a bookstore owner? Who can say no to that? So much lovin and free books! Then when Maeve appeared.. Before you start complaining about her name, she wrote thriller, as gorgeous as Stephanie March and she wore black.rimmed.glasses... I rest my case. Do help yourselves to my experimental smores on your way out but please, please sign the waiver form first.
Laid back, not erotica but will have your clits buzzing, swoony, romantic and extremely relaxing, Atramentum is the perfect antidote for your "when you're worried and you can't sleep, you count your blessings instead of sheep" moment of your life.
Enjoy 👓
June 11, 2016
Wasn't impressed . It's a 2.5 for me but couldn't round it to 3. It's a typical romance with nothing major happening .. Characters are ok, it's well written but there's just nothing to it that would make me remember the story or even attempt to read it again.
May 1, 2016
Wow!
My first book by this author and definitely won't be my last. It's an excellent read. Easy reading and very hard to put down. The storyline and the characters are very strong and easy to follow. There aren't too many different people that it's easy to keep up with them all. It's a story of love, friendship and how change can be good. Great book. I'm off to look for more by this author.
My first book by this author and definitely won't be my last. It's an excellent read. Easy reading and very hard to put down. The storyline and the characters are very strong and easy to follow. There aren't too many different people that it's easy to keep up with them all. It's a story of love, friendship and how change can be good. Great book. I'm off to look for more by this author.
March 26, 2016
Detailed score: 3.5
Yet another pure romance from M.J Duncan. Vanilla & white chocolate plot (extra sweet), where not much happens other than the leads coming together, professing their affections and having some hot pwoar. Yes there are a few mini dramas that happen outside of that to keep the plot moving along but really that's about it.
And I say that with the greatest of affection because, as I have said in other reviews of Duncan's work, to write pure romance that remains interesting (and doesn't turn into out and out Mills n Boon) is, I suspect, quite difficult. Unfortunately, while Atramentum had me pleasantly entertained in parts, there were definitely periods (particularly around the middle of the book) where I was, well, bored.
I also found George, our Great Dane doggy support, a little too good to be true. She was presented as if she really did understand english. I know I was reading an idealised world and therefore, in this world, dogs would be able to understand people... but I found it actually took me away from the book - it seems I like my doggy characters annoyingly / amusingly misbehaved!
Overall, probably my least favourite of Duncan's works so far but I don't regret the purchase. Worth a read if you like vanilla and angst isn't a must.
Yet another pure romance from M.J Duncan. Vanilla & white chocolate plot (extra sweet), where not much happens other than the leads coming together, professing their affections and having some hot pwoar. Yes there are a few mini dramas that happen outside of that to keep the plot moving along but really that's about it.
And I say that with the greatest of affection because, as I have said in other reviews of Duncan's work, to write pure romance that remains interesting (and doesn't turn into out and out Mills n Boon) is, I suspect, quite difficult. Unfortunately, while Atramentum had me pleasantly entertained in parts, there were definitely periods (particularly around the middle of the book) where I was, well, bored.
I also found George, our Great Dane doggy support, a little too good to be true. She was presented as if she really did understand english. I know I was reading an idealised world and therefore, in this world, dogs would be able to understand people... but I found it actually took me away from the book - it seems I like my doggy characters annoyingly / amusingly misbehaved!
Overall, probably my least favourite of Duncan's works so far but I don't regret the purchase. Worth a read if you like vanilla and angst isn't a must.
March 25, 2016
Funny, heartwarming, tender romance.
Dogs are my weakness and I love it when they play a big part in a story. So yes, I was very happy with George, a loveable, colorful great Dane. She is gentle, affectionate, intelligent and has a big personality. George is easy to love. Life starts pulling Joss in multiple directions. She must decide what she wants and more important, what she needs because now she focusses all of her energy on her job. She is close to a burn-out. Joss meets George in an unconventional way, she crashed into her legs and she went down. This incident is a life-changer for Joss. Maeve and George is a package deal and without George, nothing would have happened. I absolutely adored the whole set of characters. They feel as real people and totally believable. I loved the humorous friends dynamics and there where times when I had tears rolling down my cheeks. This is a love story with little drama but at a given moment something happened and it almost broke my heart. For me the highlight of this book is that the relationship evolves from the beginning of the story, that it grows without too many obstacles and without having to hide their feelings. An excellent concept.
Dogs are my weakness and I love it when they play a big part in a story. So yes, I was very happy with George, a loveable, colorful great Dane. She is gentle, affectionate, intelligent and has a big personality. George is easy to love. Life starts pulling Joss in multiple directions. She must decide what she wants and more important, what she needs because now she focusses all of her energy on her job. She is close to a burn-out. Joss meets George in an unconventional way, she crashed into her legs and she went down. This incident is a life-changer for Joss. Maeve and George is a package deal and without George, nothing would have happened. I absolutely adored the whole set of characters. They feel as real people and totally believable. I loved the humorous friends dynamics and there where times when I had tears rolling down my cheeks. This is a love story with little drama but at a given moment something happened and it almost broke my heart. For me the highlight of this book is that the relationship evolves from the beginning of the story, that it grows without too many obstacles and without having to hide their feelings. An excellent concept.
May 1, 2020
2nd time around - first before I was on Goodreads! As my readers will know, I think ol' M J is the number one author who can do no wrong (except perhaps Heist which just showed how good she can be!) Bookshop, animal, loving friends and family, true love.... what more can I ask for?
April 3, 2017
I loved, loved, loved this book. It is pure romance and I will be tired tomorrow because I stayed up too late reading it. I rarely rate a book at 5 stars but this one earned them. Readers will love Joss and Maeve and cheer them on throughout the book. This is the first book I've read by this author and I will be happy indeed if her other books are this good.
April 13, 2016
First things first: Joss and Maeve. I actually enjoy these names because some names in lesfics are...kinda...meh. George, a big ol' doggy brings these two together. Need I say more? That's so CUTE. In fact, George has a strong sense of cognizance. Pretty sure this dog wanted to hook them up from the beginning.
Anyways, Maeve's character is a somewhat reclusive author who lives near our main character, Joss. I don't recall reading about this profession for characters and it's charming in itself. The initial moments of flirting were worth all my giggling. Once things start getting sexual, I was quite pleased. MJ's sex scenes are hot and well-written. Tension, description, various positions.
Not to mention there's that sense of escapism in all of Duncan's stories. I love being separated from all the noise in their lives to focus solely on the romance. Oh, the romance. Wish I could wipe my mind clear to read it with fresh eyes.
Anyways, Maeve's character is a somewhat reclusive author who lives near our main character, Joss. I don't recall reading about this profession for characters and it's charming in itself. The initial moments of flirting were worth all my giggling. Once things start getting sexual, I was quite pleased. MJ's sex scenes are hot and well-written. Tension, description, various positions.
Not to mention there's that sense of escapism in all of Duncan's stories. I love being separated from all the noise in their lives to focus solely on the romance. Oh, the romance. Wish I could wipe my mind clear to read it with fresh eyes.
August 24, 2022
So first things first. Atramentum is a terrible name for a novel. Especially since Duncan never explains why the bookstore is called Atramentum (and if she did this, I missed it). I just needed to get that out.
The first MJ Duncan novel I read was Unadulterated Something, which surpassed all my expectations. So I've been chasing Duncan for a similar reading experience since, choosing to read the novels in order of publication, since Duncan likes to drop Easter eggs into her novels. Atramentum is the 4th novel and it's simultaneously my favorite Duncan novel and most frustrating since Unadulterated Something. What I mean is that Duncan's strength is also her weakness. Duncan understands the way connection and attraction are sparked between two people and she writes this beautifully. I was hooked--immediately--by Joss and Maeve's connection, their flirtation, their banter, their insecurities, their journey towards becoming a couple. All of this Duncan gets right, even if I think they came together a little quickly in this novel. Duncan's problem is that she relies too much on these moments that she basically forgets to focus on plot.
One of the things I noticed in Unadulterated Something is that the novel felt less like a single narrative and more like little connected vignetts about the characters. And the same thing was true in Atramentum, only more so. We get great moments with Joss and Maeve--really wonderful and cute and romantic moments. But Duncan seems to gloss over moments the reader would be interested in knowing. For example, in this novel, there seemed to something Maeve was struggling with--internally, not in her relationship with Joss--that Duncan kept hinting to but never explored, which seemed super important. Or Duncan would introduce an event at the end of the chapter and, then, when the next chapter begins it's weeks later and the event has already happened. It's a little odd.
So if you like very little angst and a real focus on the romance between the main characters, then this is a great novel for you to read. For me, it's just missing a little something. Also, I found Joss' friend/employee Scott a little off-putting (and he also didn't read to me as straight, so that was a mental hurdle I kept having to get around). So for these reasons, I lean towards 3 rather than 4. But I did like this novel more that that; I just can't rate it any higher.
The first MJ Duncan novel I read was Unadulterated Something, which surpassed all my expectations. So I've been chasing Duncan for a similar reading experience since, choosing to read the novels in order of publication, since Duncan likes to drop Easter eggs into her novels. Atramentum is the 4th novel and it's simultaneously my favorite Duncan novel and most frustrating since Unadulterated Something. What I mean is that Duncan's strength is also her weakness. Duncan understands the way connection and attraction are sparked between two people and she writes this beautifully. I was hooked--immediately--by Joss and Maeve's connection, their flirtation, their banter, their insecurities, their journey towards becoming a couple. All of this Duncan gets right, even if I think they came together a little quickly in this novel. Duncan's problem is that she relies too much on these moments that she basically forgets to focus on plot.
One of the things I noticed in Unadulterated Something is that the novel felt less like a single narrative and more like little connected vignetts about the characters. And the same thing was true in Atramentum, only more so. We get great moments with Joss and Maeve--really wonderful and cute and romantic moments. But Duncan seems to gloss over moments the reader would be interested in knowing. For example, in this novel, there seemed to something Maeve was struggling with--internally, not in her relationship with Joss--that Duncan kept hinting to but never explored, which seemed super important. Or Duncan would introduce an event at the end of the chapter and, then, when the next chapter begins it's weeks later and the event has already happened. It's a little odd.
So if you like very little angst and a real focus on the romance between the main characters, then this is a great novel for you to read. For me, it's just missing a little something. Also, I found Joss' friend/employee Scott a little off-putting (and he also didn't read to me as straight, so that was a mental hurdle I kept having to get around). So for these reasons, I lean towards 3 rather than 4. But I did like this novel more that that; I just can't rate it any higher.
November 2, 2022
I’m not going to lie, this won’t be for everyone. It’s so sweet I might have to make an appointment at my dentist to see if I didn’t spontaneously got some cavities.
The meet cute powered by a Great Dane, I love it. The dog, George, is an additional character in this book and might sport a bit too many human characteristics, but I liked it. The characters, Meave and Joss and super cute and grown up as well. I live for the kind of banter they have. And it’s not just them, it’s with all the secondary characters as well. Again, something that might not be for everyone, it is something I enjoy.
And this title? I googled it. I’m never attempting to spell it, it’ll trip me up for sure!
I so go for this one if you are looking for a low angst very sweet book with some fiery scenes.
Oh! Tiny CW, at some point we are dealing with a severely injured animal. I know CWs don’t normal appear for that but it’ll tug your heart strings. This is also the reason for mentioning low angst instead of zero angst 😉
The meet cute powered by a Great Dane, I love it. The dog, George, is an additional character in this book and might sport a bit too many human characteristics, but I liked it. The characters, Meave and Joss and super cute and grown up as well. I live for the kind of banter they have. And it’s not just them, it’s with all the secondary characters as well. Again, something that might not be for everyone, it is something I enjoy.
And this title? I googled it. I’m never attempting to spell it, it’ll trip me up for sure!
I so go for this one if you are looking for a low angst very sweet book with some fiery scenes.
Oh! Tiny CW, at some point we are dealing with a severely injured animal. I know CWs don’t normal appear for that but it’ll tug your heart strings. This is also the reason for mentioning low angst instead of zero angst 😉
July 3, 2016
look, i'm all for mindless romance when it comes to f/f, but this is really, really mindless. there's no drama or conflict of any kind except right near the end (warning for an animal being hurt, but they recover), there's no suspense of any kind, and the characters have no REAL personality; everyone is always either chuckling or murmuring. always. so much murmuring. and i get they're in love and this is romance, but they literally can't go two sentences without kissing. it's mind-numbing to read.
January 27, 2017
ABANDONED! The constant errors in this book are too distracting and annoying. It is not worth the irritation.
Duncan refers to non-hetro people as 'queer'. Am I the only person that finds this offensive? Hetro people are called 'straight' should I assume that I am, therefore, crooked?
Noun: queer
Usage: offensive
meaning "strange" or "peculiar", queer came to be deployed pejoratively against those with same-sex desires or relationships in the late-19th century.
It's time we all grow up and stop the offensive name calling
Duncan refers to non-hetro people as 'queer'. Am I the only person that finds this offensive? Hetro people are called 'straight' should I assume that I am, therefore, crooked?
Noun: queer
Usage: offensive
meaning "strange" or "peculiar", queer came to be deployed pejoratively against those with same-sex desires or relationships in the late-19th century.
It's time we all grow up and stop the offensive name calling
March 22, 2016
I don't know if it it's me or not I've read the previous books by this author and I like them but this one I could not find where the story. There was no drama, no baggage from either character nothing everything was perfect between them that would have drawn me to them.
April 2, 2016
Good story but a ton of typos took me out of it a bit.
April 28, 2024
Another awesome one from MJ...it's sweet and sexy with an unexpected twist.
January 21, 2019
One of my favorites
I reread the book and this is my new review. I’m gushing beware.
Atramentum or atrament, generally means a very black, usually liquid, substance. For example, an octopus may emit a puff of atrament. In ancient Rome, the term atramentum signified any black coloring substance used for any purpose (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atram...) So ink, maybe, and a great name for a indie bookstore.
Joss Perrault, a 30ish public accountant, has been working 16 hour days for an accounting firm in Los Angeles. She is burned out and rethinking her life plan when tragedy strikes, her beloved Aunt Helen dies unexpectedly. Joss goes back to Sky, Colorado, where her Aunt raised her, for the funeral. While there, Joss is reminded that her Aunt’s estate is hers now. Included is a cottage on Pine Lake and a bookstore, Atramentum, where Joss worked summers in high school and college. Coming to a fork in her life, Joss decides to keep everything and move back to Sky to run the bookstore. While moving her clothes into the cottage, she is bowled over by a very large, black Great Dane hurtling out of the woods. Everything scatters and Joss’s faced is licked by her attacker. They make friends and that’s how George, the female Dane, comes into her life. Not far behind the dog is her owner, Maeve Dylan, a beautiful woman, and as Joss finds out, her mysterious neighbor. Joss can’t get Maeve off her mind and so begins the tale being told here.
I first read this book in 2016 when I rediscovered the wealth of lesbian fiction to be read. I loved it then and have not changed my mind reading it again in 2019. It’s a long,some may say agonizing long, tale of love found, as it takes a while for the women to get there. This book has many good characters and portrays how lesbian and straight cultures can intermingle in harmony and trust. I found myself living Joss’s life with her and it’s a wonderful escape. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a slow burn and a fabulous HEA. Thanks, MJ Duncan, it was a nice ride the second time, too.
It’s January 2019 and I just read reviews for this book from people on Goodreads. What is wrong with you guys - this is a good story. The title is a new word, learn it. Another complained about to much dialogue- how can a book have too much dialogue? You guys just don’t remember when we couldn’t do the things in this book openly, if you did you would recognize the celebration it is.
I reread the book and this is my new review. I’m gushing beware.
Atramentum or atrament, generally means a very black, usually liquid, substance. For example, an octopus may emit a puff of atrament. In ancient Rome, the term atramentum signified any black coloring substance used for any purpose (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atram...) So ink, maybe, and a great name for a indie bookstore.
Joss Perrault, a 30ish public accountant, has been working 16 hour days for an accounting firm in Los Angeles. She is burned out and rethinking her life plan when tragedy strikes, her beloved Aunt Helen dies unexpectedly. Joss goes back to Sky, Colorado, where her Aunt raised her, for the funeral. While there, Joss is reminded that her Aunt’s estate is hers now. Included is a cottage on Pine Lake and a bookstore, Atramentum, where Joss worked summers in high school and college. Coming to a fork in her life, Joss decides to keep everything and move back to Sky to run the bookstore. While moving her clothes into the cottage, she is bowled over by a very large, black Great Dane hurtling out of the woods. Everything scatters and Joss’s faced is licked by her attacker. They make friends and that’s how George, the female Dane, comes into her life. Not far behind the dog is her owner, Maeve Dylan, a beautiful woman, and as Joss finds out, her mysterious neighbor. Joss can’t get Maeve off her mind and so begins the tale being told here.
I first read this book in 2016 when I rediscovered the wealth of lesbian fiction to be read. I loved it then and have not changed my mind reading it again in 2019. It’s a long,some may say agonizing long, tale of love found, as it takes a while for the women to get there. This book has many good characters and portrays how lesbian and straight cultures can intermingle in harmony and trust. I found myself living Joss’s life with her and it’s a wonderful escape. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a slow burn and a fabulous HEA. Thanks, MJ Duncan, it was a nice ride the second time, too.
It’s January 2019 and I just read reviews for this book from people on Goodreads. What is wrong with you guys - this is a good story. The title is a new word, learn it. Another complained about to much dialogue- how can a book have too much dialogue? You guys just don’t remember when we couldn’t do the things in this book openly, if you did you would recognize the celebration it is.
November 21, 2020
Excellent Read!
This was an outstanding straight up love story. No exes, no jealous fanatics and no forbidden live. It was as much heartwarming as it was heartbreaking and at the cusp of it was love. A burnt out accountant who inherited a new life which Joss decided to take on and she meets a writer Maeve who’s Great Dane brings them together. It is just a sweet, sweet story.
Loved this writer!
This was an outstanding straight up love story. No exes, no jealous fanatics and no forbidden live. It was as much heartwarming as it was heartbreaking and at the cusp of it was love. A burnt out accountant who inherited a new life which Joss decided to take on and she meets a writer Maeve who’s Great Dane brings them together. It is just a sweet, sweet story.
Loved this writer!
July 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! I love the 2 MCs Joss and Maeve! And of course George, the great Dane, she brought the two together!
This is a beautiful love story, about 2 incredible women that find each other. The book flowed, and I couldn't put it down. Very hot sex scenes to. No angst to speak of. Just a really good story. 5 stars!
This is a beautiful love story, about 2 incredible women that find each other. The book flowed, and I couldn't put it down. Very hot sex scenes to. No angst to speak of. Just a really good story. 5 stars!
March 6, 2018
It was a lovely read! The author definitely let you experience the lives of the two main characters and brought them together in a believable way. I had a lot of laughs reading this. And who doesn't love falling in love in a book shop? Definitely will read again!
June 5, 2020
This book hits the perfect balance meeting, getting to know each other, dog. No crazy pull,push,pull angst. Totally an enjoyable read.
November 5, 2019
Length: 6.5 hours.
Smut: yes.
Warnings: none.
At time of writing this review, it was my 4th time rereading Atramentum and I can say it still makes me smile. Let's get the first thing out of the way: it is modern lesbian romance done very well.
As a whole, Atramentum ticks a lot of check boxes:
- the romance burns sinfully slow without losing your interest,
- all characters are generally likable without being too grating,
- it has glimmers of pleasant witticism to keep you going,
- no random side characters whose single purpose in life is to drive a wedge in the main romance,
- and moderate pacing so you don't feel as if you're being rushed through a checkout lane. (No wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am for me please.)
That being said, if you are looking for a feet-sweeping, all-encompassing, whirlwind of romance to lift you off feet and take you places (think: Patrick Swayze, Dirty Dancing) then this novel may not cut it for you. Though if you're still looking for the rush that isn't too unrealistic, thus keeping your feet firmly planted, this may do it for you.
The only nitpick I can think of is Maeve is too damningly perfect (to me at least.) She rends my heart into tiny, useless piecesin the best way possible every single time. (Bearing in mind this is my 4th time reading, I have not redacted this statement.)
So if you're feeling a bit battered and in need of some lovin', do pick up this book. If you're new to lesbian romance as a genre, do pick up this book, it's a good book to ease you in. Lastly, if you're experienced in the genre, prepare to have a new favourite.
Smut: yes.
Warnings: none.
At time of writing this review, it was my 4th time rereading Atramentum and I can say it still makes me smile. Let's get the first thing out of the way: it is modern lesbian romance done very well.
As a whole, Atramentum ticks a lot of check boxes:
- the romance burns sinfully slow without losing your interest,
- all characters are generally likable without being too grating,
- it has glimmers of pleasant witticism to keep you going,
- no random side characters whose single purpose in life is to drive a wedge in the main romance,
- and moderate pacing so you don't feel as if you're being rushed through a checkout lane. (No wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am for me please.)
That being said, if you are looking for a feet-sweeping, all-encompassing, whirlwind of romance to lift you off feet and take you places (think: Patrick Swayze, Dirty Dancing) then this novel may not cut it for you. Though if you're still looking for the rush that isn't too unrealistic, thus keeping your feet firmly planted, this may do it for you.
The only nitpick I can think of is Maeve is too damningly perfect (to me at least.) She rends my heart into tiny, useless pieces
So if you're feeling a bit battered and in need of some lovin', do pick up this book. If you're new to lesbian romance as a genre, do pick up this book, it's a good book to ease you in. Lastly, if you're experienced in the genre, prepare to have a new favourite.
May 19, 2016
I had high hopes for Atramentum because it had books and a dog as main themes. It was a decent and easy read, set mostly in the mountains in Sky. It started promisingly with Joss making a life enhancing decision to leave her accountancy job and run a bookshop (a fantasy many of us have!). We are introduced To George (the dog) who quickly became the star of the book, and Maeve a famous author.
I enjoyed the scenes with the goofy George but eventually it becomes overplayed and the dog assumes human intelligence and communication abilities which start to lose touch with reality. That said as the book reaches a climax you become very involved in her story.
But the main plot surrounds the relationship of Joss with Maeve which develops at a steady pace with the usual anxieties and stresses as they build their relationship.
There is nothing to dislike about this book overall but I was left a little dissatisfied. The plot was benign and the dialogue without much interest. For example I don't think Joss and Maeve argued once! But if you just want to settle down with a feel good book to take your worries away then you could do far worse than this.
I enjoyed the scenes with the goofy George but eventually it becomes overplayed and the dog assumes human intelligence and communication abilities which start to lose touch with reality. That said as the book reaches a climax you become very involved in her story.
But the main plot surrounds the relationship of Joss with Maeve which develops at a steady pace with the usual anxieties and stresses as they build their relationship.
There is nothing to dislike about this book overall but I was left a little dissatisfied. The plot was benign and the dialogue without much interest. For example I don't think Joss and Maeve argued once! But if you just want to settle down with a feel good book to take your worries away then you could do far worse than this.
November 25, 2017
I avoided this book for the longest time because I don't like the name or the cover. I'm glad I finally got around to reading it. Joss (best name ever) has worked herself to the bone as a public accountant in LA when her aunt dies and she returns to Sky, Colorado. Realising that she is wasting her life by having no social life she decides to stay in Sky and run her aunt's book shop. She meets Maeve when she is flattened by Maeve's Great Dane, George.
This is a really sweet love story. It is easy reading with not too much drama. Although told from third person point of view, we get much more insight into Joss' character and thoughts than any of the other characters except maybe George. I realised by the end of the book that the story was really about the dog and most surprising was that I actually didn't mind.
This is a really sweet love story. It is easy reading with not too much drama. Although told from third person point of view, we get much more insight into Joss' character and thoughts than any of the other characters except maybe George. I realised by the end of the book that the story was really about the dog and most surprising was that I actually didn't mind.
April 22, 2016
SPOILERS!
Although I'm not sure how you can spoil something that has no plot.
So yeah, nothing happens in this story. There's no conflict. Girl meets girl. They get together. The end.
And it's tedious to read all the ridiculous "banter" between the characters. We don't need to read all the dumb transactional dialogue of someone paying at a restaurant or what they're having for dinner. Think, "Does the reader need to know this? Does this add something to the story?" If not, PLEASE DON'T TORTURE ME. I skimmed pretty significantly. It's okay, I didn't miss anything because nothing really happened.
Nice attempt. Needs editing badly.
Although I'm not sure how you can spoil something that has no plot.
So yeah, nothing happens in this story. There's no conflict. Girl meets girl. They get together. The end.
And it's tedious to read all the ridiculous "banter" between the characters. We don't need to read all the dumb transactional dialogue of someone paying at a restaurant or what they're having for dinner. Think, "Does the reader need to know this? Does this add something to the story?" If not, PLEASE DON'T TORTURE ME. I skimmed pretty significantly. It's okay, I didn't miss anything because nothing really happened.
Nice attempt. Needs editing badly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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