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Leave a Mark
Dyed, pierced, and covered in tattoos, Wren Blanchard is the exact opposite of everything Dr. Lee Hawthorne thought he wanted. His residency is almost finished. With the perfect job, the beautiful house, and the polished girlfriend, he knows he should be happy, yet he isn't. But once Wren lands in his ER with her sharp tongue and artist’s soul, she leaves a mark on him that just won’t fade. Wren knows the good doctor is way out of her league. To people like him, she's a circus freak. Besides, she's not the type to get hung up on guys, especially ones with midnight blue eyes—ones who know all about antiques, crack bad jokes, and love Joss Whedon. No. She doesn't need that. After all, she has friends, a psychotic cat, and a promising career as one of the best tattoo artists in town. And it’s enough. Really, it is. Or it would be if Lee weren’t there every time she turned around. One kiss seals their fate. Their attraction is undeniable--but Wren’s past is full of ghosts. Is their bond strong enough for a solid future? Or will their new relationship crumble beneath the weight of all she carries?
356 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2016
124 people are currently reading
1879 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Fournet
17 books515 followersBestselling romance author Stephanie Fournet has thirteen novels and one novella to her name. She lives in Lafayette, Louisiana—not far from the Saint Streets where her novels are set. She shares her home with her husband and their needy dogs Mabel and Bud, and the ghosts of dogs past. When she isn’t writing romance novels, Stephanie is usually helping students get into college, camping, or curled up with a good book. She loves hearing from readers, so look for her on Facebook, Instagram, and stephaniefournet.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
dnf
April 23, 2019DNF @ 53%
I tried reading this on 3 separate occasions...but it’s just too sappy for me and I’m bored to tears. Huge bummer.
XXXXXXXXXXX
I HAVE to read this.
Because the blurb name drops Joss Whedon, the creator of one of my most favorite things on the planet.
I tried reading this on 3 separate occasions...but it’s just too sappy for me and I’m bored to tears. Huge bummer.
XXXXXXXXXXX
I HAVE to read this.
Because the blurb name drops Joss Whedon, the creator of one of my most favorite things on the planet.
September 3, 2016
"You amaze me. You arrest me. You ignite me."
Leave a Mark is a contemporary romance set in southern Louisiana. The combination of the vibrant sights and sounds, the tender romance, and the complex characters made this a truly superb read.
Wren is an adventurous tattoo artist with a great deal of tenacity. After overcoming numerous obstacles throughout her childhood, she has found peace by living life to the fullest and covering her body with art inspired by her soul. When Wren lands in the hospital, she is placed in the care of Dr. Leland Hawthorne.
"Lee only had a hint of what it was like to know Wren Blanchard, but a hint was enough."Lee has always done "the right thing". He has always dated "the right girl". When he meets Wren, his entire world is turned upside down. She seems to be everything he has always wanted and just didn't know it. The only problem is Lee has a girlfriend and Wren isn't exactly the type of woman he can bring to all of his philanthropy auctions and resort parties.
"They don't really go together...they don't really work together."
"Even as he kissed her back, Lee could feel her struggle, feel the civil war she waged within herself."When Lee discovers that Wren is not just what he wants but who he needs in his life, he sets his sights on making her his. Wren is hesitant to trust the good doctor. After all, she has been abandoned and ostracized so many times. Can two people from two completely different worlds truly find love in each other?
"This was no gentle ascent. It was a freefall."
"You're perfect for me in every way."Told in dual POV, Leave a Mark is tender, sweet, and quite a complex read. I was quite taken by Wren and the strength of her character. Her creativity, loyalty, and quick wit kept me engaged the entire read. Lee is just as complex carrying his baggage from the past. The character growth that takes place throughout the story was inspirational and quite heart warming. I adored the intensity of "the chase" while Lee was trying to win over Wren's heart. The pacing was steady throughout, and I loved the supporting characters. Wren's grandmother is possibly my favorite with her flair for Louisiana cooking and her constant stream of words chalked full of wisdom. The pop culture references were unique and made the read highly entertaining! Certain elements of Wren's past were quite heart wrenching and the way in which the author weaved the plot together with flashes from the past was quite spectacular.
Overall, I highly recommend Leave a Mark to my tender romance loving fans. This read will warm your heart and leave you smiling for days! This was my first book by Ms. Fournet, and I can guarantee it will not be my last. I look forward to reading many more!
*Read as part of the fun on Shh...TopPicks with Alessandra, Liz, Carlene & Anna: Aug. 21: Heroes inked to shhweet perfection!
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*
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October 19, 2017
3.5* so beautiful at times but......
### CONTAINS SLIGHT SPOILERS ###
Parts of this this book were beautiful and I enjoyed reading it but it could have been more, for me it had one major flaw.
Wren has baggage, more than anyone person should have but while she's suffered she's also survived, her body is covered it tattoos, her armour, her strength and her mask. She's different, quirky, intelligent, funny and talented but she's weighed down by her past.
Lee Hawthorne is a doctor who's life, on the surface anyway seems perfect but he's also incredibly perceptive at times and he manages to see Wren like no one else has.
These two meet when Wren ends up in hospital under his care, but there's something there, they both feel it and fate keeps giving them a nudge and putting them together.
I liked the story and I liked both main characters, Wren needs Lee, she needs someone to love her and fight for her and Lee needs Wren as well otherwise he'll find himself living a life he doesn't want.
Sounds good?
Yes it does so what's my problem?
When they meet Lee is in a long term relationship with his girlfriend Marcelle, things aren't perfect obviously because this is Lee and Wren's book but he's dating Marcelle when he meets Wren, then again when they meet and he flirts with her and again when they kiss for the first time.
Now I know people have different ideas on cheating I had a discussion with a friend about a character in a book who had actual intercourse with another woman and she argued and still argues that this wasn't cheating because his heart wasn't involved.
I digress I know but my point is people will view this differently but to me it felt like cheating but if he'd have gone straight back and ended his relationship with Marcelle because he has feelings for Wren then I would have let it pass but he didn't he continued on.
Spending time and developing feelings for Wren allows Lee to really see his life, the way it's going and he makes decisions on this but still his relationship with Marcelle doesn't end and when it does it isn't directly because of Wren, well it is but it's not a case of 'I like someone else' it's because he gets a puppy.
This may seem a minor point and like I said people will view this differently but for me it's cheating and I didn't like it and nearly stopped reading, if it had happened earlier I would have done but it was 30% in and I wanted to follow this story and these two but the damage was done and while I really enjoyed the rest of the book I could never fully get past their beginning.
### CONTAINS SLIGHT SPOILERS ###
Parts of this this book were beautiful and I enjoyed reading it but it could have been more, for me it had one major flaw.
Wren has baggage, more than anyone person should have but while she's suffered she's also survived, her body is covered it tattoos, her armour, her strength and her mask. She's different, quirky, intelligent, funny and talented but she's weighed down by her past.
Lee Hawthorne is a doctor who's life, on the surface anyway seems perfect but he's also incredibly perceptive at times and he manages to see Wren like no one else has.
These two meet when Wren ends up in hospital under his care, but there's something there, they both feel it and fate keeps giving them a nudge and putting them together.
I liked the story and I liked both main characters, Wren needs Lee, she needs someone to love her and fight for her and Lee needs Wren as well otherwise he'll find himself living a life he doesn't want.
Sounds good?
Yes it does so what's my problem?
When they meet Lee is in a long term relationship with his girlfriend Marcelle, things aren't perfect obviously because this is Lee and Wren's book but he's dating Marcelle when he meets Wren, then again when they meet and he flirts with her and again when they kiss for the first time.
Now I know people have different ideas on cheating I had a discussion with a friend about a character in a book who had actual intercourse with another woman and she argued and still argues that this wasn't cheating because his heart wasn't involved.
I digress I know but my point is people will view this differently but to me it felt like cheating but if he'd have gone straight back and ended his relationship with Marcelle because he has feelings for Wren then I would have let it pass but he didn't he continued on.
Spending time and developing feelings for Wren allows Lee to really see his life, the way it's going and he makes decisions on this but still his relationship with Marcelle doesn't end and when it does it isn't directly because of Wren, well it is but it's not a case of 'I like someone else' it's because he gets a puppy.
This may seem a minor point and like I said people will view this differently but for me it's cheating and I didn't like it and nearly stopped reading, if it had happened earlier I would have done but it was 30% in and I wanted to follow this story and these two but the damage was done and while I really enjoyed the rest of the book I could never fully get past their beginning.
April 29, 2019
This is a very beautiful story that touched my heart. I really really loved it.
The weird thing is I thought of dropping it in Chapter 1 & 2 because its writing style didn’t appeal to me and the story wasn’t flowing, at all!
I am SO glad that I didn’t drop and miss this beautiful book.
After Chapter 3, the book starts to pull you in. Suddenly, I was really hooked and I realized it was 5 a.m when I finished reading it in one sitting.
The characters are awesome, the story is touching and heart-warming and everything happens as it might have had in real life. I liked the feeling of reality in it.
As I said, the only problem I had with this book was its writing style. First of all, the flashbacks aren't used effectively. Also, the book is written in the third person narrative, which is my least favorite. And from one chapter to another, the narration focuses on one of the main character’s thoughts and feelings. It would have been a perfect book with dual point of view... Such a shame!
Still, I believe it is a book very well worth reading. The story is worth 5 stars. I took 1 point off because of the distracting 3rd person narrative, that's all.
The plot:
This is the love story of Wren, a tattoo artist and Lee, a doctor. Yeah, not a usual match, as you can imagine 😊
Dr. Lee Hawthorn meets our heroine, Wren, at hospital and as his patient. He operates on her and from the very first moment, he is enchanted by her unique beauty.
Wren is very different from the women he is used to. She is totally different from his girlfriend, Marcelle. (Yeap, he has a girlfriend - he is not a man-wh*re!)
Because of Wren, he starts to question his relationship but he cannot all of a sudden leave his girlfriend. He has this period of "confusion & realizing" etc...
Lee knew that with someone like Wren, the amount of time didn’t really matter all that much. She was the kind of person who could leave a mark with just one meeting.
Wren is a tough girl whose whole body is covered in tattoos. She has a barbell in her eyebrow. Her hair is ink black & blue. She is enchanted by the handsome doctor with ocean blue eyes, as well but because she thinks he is out of her league, she is afraid of even dreaming about him.
A few encounters with Wren makes Lee understand that he is settling with his present girlfriend. A few hours around her makes him realize that he actually needs someone like Wren.
Although I didn’t like how Lee and his girlfriend were separated, I was glad that there wasn’t a love triangle. (There was one small and short stolen kiss, though, while he still had his girlfriend!)
After Lee is free, he goes after Wren but Wren is a damaged soul. She doesn’t easily open up to people and trust them. Lee really works hard to earn her trust.
The more they see each other, the more they realize that they have a lot of things in common. However, Wren is the one who always feels it is not possible to last and upon each problem, she tries to flee.
Of course, Lee’s parents cause a problem, too when they first see her but it doesn't last long when they understand how serious Lee is.
Also, after they are separated, there is no ex-girlfriend drama at all, which was good. I loved that the majority of the book focuses on the relationship between Lee and Wren.
The push & pull between Lee and Wren
Wren is afraid of loving Lee because she is sure that he will hurt her. She thinks he is interested in her because she is different. She doesn’t feel she deserves a man like him so she believes that he will definitely leave her soon and she is afraid of being hurt, then. That is why, he really has to try hard to make her believe that his feelings are real and they are not temporary. Wren pushes him away in more than one or two cases.
The past of Wren
Wren has a sad past. When she finally confesses to him what she endured when she was a little child, we understand why she is hiding behind all these tattoos. These tattoos have a story from her own life.
She didn’t have to explain that her ink told a story. Somehow, the phoenix connected everything. She’d been burned to ashes, and she lived to tell the tale. But Lee could see she was still that frightened bird.
Applauds to Ms. Fournet!
Books in which victims of violence/abuse are healed magically just by falling in love with a good guy (or even by threesomes in some unbelievable books) always piss me off. They are not realistic at all. So I was really happy to see that the writer emphasizes the importance of therapy in cases like Wren’s.
Victims of abuse usually feel guilty and most think of themselves as unclean. A self-compassion therapy or something like that is what they definitely need to take. And with all his love and devotion, Lee not only offers Wren a life where she feels loved, he also makes sure that she believes she deserves to be loved. He does it by always sticking around her and never letting her go and also by encouraging her to have therapy. I really appreciated this realistic approach to the matter. Thank you, dear writer!
Final thoughts
I loved how the book made me feel. The build-up of Wren and Lee’s relationship is very-well done.
Although the 3rd person narrative disturbed me immensely, the beautifully-written dialogues served as a compensation 😊
The book has its hot moments but mostly, it is highly emotional.
Ohh, I mustn't forget about Agnes & Victor: Such cute animals that try to get on well, seeing their owners are doing the same :) They really add color to the story.
Here are some more quotes from the book...
“You heard the man, Lee. Let me go.” Her voice sounded completely hollow. “Step away. I don’t want to hurt you.” She took her foot off the brake, and the car started to roll.
He locked eyes with her but pushed back from the car. “You already have.”
***
She said the way your folks looked at her only reflected how she sees herself. That she’s not good enough for you.
***
“I have a long road ahead of me.”
He kissed her thumb and spoke against it. “I’ll walk it with you. We’ll take our time.”
***
Wren was struggling to make herself understood, to try to put in words how it felt like he had redrawn the earth and the sky and the seas to make the world new — all for her. It was that huge.
“I’ve never felt so loved.”
The weird thing is I thought of dropping it in Chapter 1 & 2 because its writing style didn’t appeal to me and the story wasn’t flowing, at all!
I am SO glad that I didn’t drop and miss this beautiful book.
After Chapter 3, the book starts to pull you in. Suddenly, I was really hooked and I realized it was 5 a.m when I finished reading it in one sitting.
The characters are awesome, the story is touching and heart-warming and everything happens as it might have had in real life. I liked the feeling of reality in it.
As I said, the only problem I had with this book was its writing style. First of all, the flashbacks aren't used effectively. Also, the book is written in the third person narrative, which is my least favorite. And from one chapter to another, the narration focuses on one of the main character’s thoughts and feelings. It would have been a perfect book with dual point of view... Such a shame!
Still, I believe it is a book very well worth reading. The story is worth 5 stars. I took 1 point off because of the distracting 3rd person narrative, that's all.
The plot:
This is the love story of Wren, a tattoo artist and Lee, a doctor. Yeah, not a usual match, as you can imagine 😊
Dr. Lee Hawthorn meets our heroine, Wren, at hospital and as his patient. He operates on her and from the very first moment, he is enchanted by her unique beauty.
Wren is very different from the women he is used to. She is totally different from his girlfriend, Marcelle. (Yeap, he has a girlfriend - he is not a man-wh*re!)
Because of Wren, he starts to question his relationship but he cannot all of a sudden leave his girlfriend. He has this period of "confusion & realizing" etc...
Lee knew that with someone like Wren, the amount of time didn’t really matter all that much. She was the kind of person who could leave a mark with just one meeting.
Wren is a tough girl whose whole body is covered in tattoos. She has a barbell in her eyebrow. Her hair is ink black & blue. She is enchanted by the handsome doctor with ocean blue eyes, as well but because she thinks he is out of her league, she is afraid of even dreaming about him.
A few encounters with Wren makes Lee understand that he is settling with his present girlfriend. A few hours around her makes him realize that he actually needs someone like Wren.
Although I didn’t like how Lee and his girlfriend were separated, I was glad that there wasn’t a love triangle. (There was one small and short stolen kiss, though, while he still had his girlfriend!)
After Lee is free, he goes after Wren but Wren is a damaged soul. She doesn’t easily open up to people and trust them. Lee really works hard to earn her trust.
The more they see each other, the more they realize that they have a lot of things in common. However, Wren is the one who always feels it is not possible to last and upon each problem, she tries to flee.
Of course, Lee’s parents cause a problem, too when they first see her but it doesn't last long when they understand how serious Lee is.
Also, after they are separated, there is no ex-girlfriend drama at all, which was good. I loved that the majority of the book focuses on the relationship between Lee and Wren.
The push & pull between Lee and Wren
Wren is afraid of loving Lee because she is sure that he will hurt her. She thinks he is interested in her because she is different. She doesn’t feel she deserves a man like him so she believes that he will definitely leave her soon and she is afraid of being hurt, then. That is why, he really has to try hard to make her believe that his feelings are real and they are not temporary. Wren pushes him away in more than one or two cases.
The past of Wren
Wren has a sad past. When she finally confesses to him what she endured when she was a little child, we understand why she is hiding behind all these tattoos. These tattoos have a story from her own life.
She didn’t have to explain that her ink told a story. Somehow, the phoenix connected everything. She’d been burned to ashes, and she lived to tell the tale. But Lee could see she was still that frightened bird.
Applauds to Ms. Fournet!
Books in which victims of violence/abuse are healed magically just by falling in love with a good guy (or even by threesomes in some unbelievable books) always piss me off. They are not realistic at all. So I was really happy to see that the writer emphasizes the importance of therapy in cases like Wren’s.
Victims of abuse usually feel guilty and most think of themselves as unclean. A self-compassion therapy or something like that is what they definitely need to take. And with all his love and devotion, Lee not only offers Wren a life where she feels loved, he also makes sure that she believes she deserves to be loved. He does it by always sticking around her and never letting her go and also by encouraging her to have therapy. I really appreciated this realistic approach to the matter. Thank you, dear writer!
Final thoughts
I loved how the book made me feel. The build-up of Wren and Lee’s relationship is very-well done.
Although the 3rd person narrative disturbed me immensely, the beautifully-written dialogues served as a compensation 😊
The book has its hot moments but mostly, it is highly emotional.
Ohh, I mustn't forget about Agnes & Victor: Such cute animals that try to get on well, seeing their owners are doing the same :) They really add color to the story.
Here are some more quotes from the book...
“You heard the man, Lee. Let me go.” Her voice sounded completely hollow. “Step away. I don’t want to hurt you.” She took her foot off the brake, and the car started to roll.
He locked eyes with her but pushed back from the car. “You already have.”
***
She said the way your folks looked at her only reflected how she sees herself. That she’s not good enough for you.
***
“I have a long road ahead of me.”
He kissed her thumb and spoke against it. “I’ll walk it with you. We’ll take our time.”
***
Wren was struggling to make herself understood, to try to put in words how it felt like he had redrawn the earth and the sky and the seas to make the world new — all for her. It was that huge.
“I’ve never felt so loved.”
June 4, 2016
Pretty much the most perfect book I have ever read!
This author pulls us deep into her characters.
This author pulls us deep into her characters.
January 1, 2020
Stephanie Fournet is a new author to me and what an author she is indeed. She has written a wonderful friends to lovers with so much heart. Wren is a cautious woman who has experienced abuse when she was a kid, which has resulted in a deep rooted trauma and survivors guilt. The amazing and kind doctor Lee turns everything around when Wren gets admitted in the hospital where he works. The connection is immediate and the bantering awesome. I had such a good time in the company of these two terrific characters. It was a joy to follow Lee doing everything in his power to earn Wren’s trust but also to witness a beautiful friendship blossom and slowly evolve into more. Leave a Mark is a fabulous slow burn that has its focus on its characters. Lee and Wren was truly amazing.
4 Birds and Tattoo stars
4 Birds and Tattoo stars
March 25, 2019
This is a very tender and touching story. At first glance, it appears to be an opposites attract romance, but it’s not at all. It’s about two people that have so much in common and want nothing more than to be good enough for one another.
The story is more character driven than plot driven and that was nice. The story focused on their love and Wren’s healing.
I would definitely categorize this as a “sweet” romance, but it wasn’t cheesy. Overall, it was a very nice and heartwarming read. The hero Lee is a pretty amazing guy that any reader will fall for.
The story is more character driven than plot driven and that was nice. The story focused on their love and Wren’s healing.
I would definitely categorize this as a “sweet” romance, but it wasn’t cheesy. Overall, it was a very nice and heartwarming read. The hero Lee is a pretty amazing guy that any reader will fall for.
February 18, 2024
02/2018
I liked the storyline and the characters. I liked how the relationship between h and H developed, its pace was perfect. No angst, a hurtful history, a slow path to healing. Well done and nicely written. 4 stars.
-----------
05/2020
Reread 2 years later.. hmmm not such a fan anymore. 3,5 stars.
------
02/2023 didn't reread, just saw some grammar errors and couldn't not correct them.
I liked the storyline and the characters. I liked how the relationship between h and H developed, its pace was perfect. No angst, a hurtful history, a slow path to healing. Well done and nicely written. 4 stars.
-----------
05/2020
Reread 2 years later.. hmmm not such a fan anymore. 3,5 stars.
------
02/2023 didn't reread, just saw some grammar errors and couldn't not correct them.
April 14, 2018
This story captures so many different emotions and struggles in a not cheesy way it is amazing. The author doesn't "romantize" the whole child abuse thing. I have read books before which deal with this topic but normally the don't visualize a picture of the actual abuse or the child is abused but not that much abused (don't know if that makes sense). It is for sure a difficutl topic and it is hard to read to be honest. Normally I go for the more "entertaining" books but I am really glad that I have read this one.
Also I was goner from the first Joss Whedon reference - OMG Buffy forever right :)
The main characters are loveable easy enough and Wren is just amazing.
Also I was goner from the first Joss Whedon reference - OMG Buffy forever right :)
The main characters are loveable easy enough and Wren is just amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2017
This would be the most consuming couple but they are one of the most cute and straight forward in a way or the other.This book does not have streamy romance but it has a one that would make you feel much better when it ends.
This story revolves around Lee and wren.They are not actually polar opposite but they are some what may different in appearance .Lee is a doctor at a Charity hospital and wren is a tattoo artist .Lee is a fun loving and some what a childish character and wren is all colorful and a total tattoo girl.
Lee and wrens meeting each other was quite a scene that no one would like that happening to them .Wren collapses after completing a tattoo and needs a urgent surgery and Lee was the doctor who had to operate her ,but as wren was hardly concious all she says is don't ruin my tattoo.Who would say that in there right mind.After the operation Lee taught was quite a shock he taught she should like his handwork.Who thinks that.
Both the character have a very good sense of humor in the story.
The romance is not streaming but it makes a quick stressful arona around you.Lee was in a relationship when he met wren and out of the way helped her by dropping her home ,cleaning the cats litter box.But still it made him look unfaithful.All tough he knew he was being unfaithful but he still did it.
All tough when Lee relationship ended it bought a feeling of releaf
If we once again look at the staring we would see that Lee is shown to be totally dedicated to his relationship which makes it feel it wrong for him to be with Wren.All tough in the whole book none the of them deny the fact that they are attached to each other.
There are some part in the book that seem to be insignificant all tough they are the mystery part of the story.Wren is abused in her past but there is no where metioned what happened to her abuser and all the time there is mention of her mother but no where it is mentioned how she died.Every where there is a small part that tells about wrens past but none seems to connect to the next one.
After Lee and wren are together they have to face a lot of problems which is because wren cannot get her self to trust the relationship and her own problems with trusting peapel and I n this book they have over come it beautifully without a lot of fussing over small things.
After reading this book in between the chapters the story was quite straight the story had a ex girlfriend who was for some time a little bit of trouble booster.It had past as a trouble but it missed a part in which there early there love ,it's not like they don't but some what it felt more reserved.The epilogue was quite beautiful with a very unique way of telling something .
This story revolves around Lee and wren.They are not actually polar opposite but they are some what may different in appearance .Lee is a doctor at a Charity hospital and wren is a tattoo artist .Lee is a fun loving and some what a childish character and wren is all colorful and a total tattoo girl.
Lee and wrens meeting each other was quite a scene that no one would like that happening to them .Wren collapses after completing a tattoo and needs a urgent surgery and Lee was the doctor who had to operate her ,but as wren was hardly concious all she says is don't ruin my tattoo.Who would say that in there right mind.After the operation Lee taught was quite a shock he taught she should like his handwork.Who thinks that.
Both the character have a very good sense of humor in the story.
The romance is not streaming but it makes a quick stressful arona around you.Lee was in a relationship when he met wren and out of the way helped her by dropping her home ,cleaning the cats litter box.But still it made him look unfaithful.All tough he knew he was being unfaithful but he still did it.
All tough when Lee relationship ended it bought a feeling of releaf
If we once again look at the staring we would see that Lee is shown to be totally dedicated to his relationship which makes it feel it wrong for him to be with Wren.All tough in the whole book none the of them deny the fact that they are attached to each other.
There are some part in the book that seem to be insignificant all tough they are the mystery part of the story.Wren is abused in her past but there is no where metioned what happened to her abuser and all the time there is mention of her mother but no where it is mentioned how she died.Every where there is a small part that tells about wrens past but none seems to connect to the next one.
After Lee and wren are together they have to face a lot of problems which is because wren cannot get her self to trust the relationship and her own problems with trusting peapel and I n this book they have over come it beautifully without a lot of fussing over small things.
After reading this book in between the chapters the story was quite straight the story had a ex girlfriend who was for some time a little bit of trouble booster.It had past as a trouble but it missed a part in which there early there love ,it's not like they don't but some what it felt more reserved.The epilogue was quite beautiful with a very unique way of telling something .
October 23, 2017
Wren Blanchard might be hard to catch, but she was easy to love.LOVED IT!!! In fact, I'm not sure I can count all the ways I loved this one, but I'm sure going to try...
Wren is a successful tattoo artist whose past has left her scarred on the inside. Lee is finishing up his residency and in the running for all-American wonderboy. She's covered in ink, he's unmarked.
Sigh - classic lower class girl meets upper class boy.
So here's why this is going on my favorites shelf...
1. Both Wren and Lee were written with such warmth and honesty. I loved them both. I felt their pain, their doubts, their vulnerabilities.This was ROMANCE at its finest. I can't recommend it enough!
2. Wren didn't become a drooling ditz consumed by lust when she spent time with Lee.
3. There was a lot of character growth and discovery shown through dialogue. Wren and Lee actually talked to each other and had meaningful conversations. The level of intimacy created between them was exceptional.
4. Wren's past sexual abuse wasn't sensationalized.
5. The writing was fabulous. Words can be powerful painters of pictures and Ms. Fournet excelled at describing everything from Lee's house to Wren's tattoos.
6. There were some powerful moments that really yanked on my heart strings. I loved the way the I'm not worthy of loving you theme was handled with such depth and intelligence. I absolutely believed in Wren's self-doubts, feeling them inside like they were my own.
7. This book contained no 'smut'. Usually this is a negative for me, lol. But this time I loved that the story wasn't overtly sexual - I mean yes, there was sex in it...but it was sweet. Everyone enjoys a bowl of vanilla ice cream once in a while :)
8. There were a ton of Joss Whedon references - one of my all-time favorite creative forces in the world.
9. Gah! The epilogue was pretty fantastic.
January 9, 2024
nicely written with good characters and story. a little bit too sappy and mushy for my taste, but all in all i enjoyed it
April 18, 2016
This is the first book that I've read by Stephanie Fournet but it WILL NOT be the last. I don't know what I was expecting with this one but it blew all of my expectations out of the water. I don't think that I've read a book that touched me so deeply in a long time. It's not just a romance novel. It's so much more than that. Leave A Mark is a book about sometimes life being so terrible and horrific that when something good happens, you just can't believe it.
The main characters, Wren and Lee, were unlike any characters I've read in a long time. I've always said that I love a perfectly flawed character and they don't come more flawed than the leading lady, Wren. She has some serious demons in her past and while I don't want to share what those demons of abuse are (because who likes it when surprises are spoiled), I will tell you that it turned my stomach to read what she had gone through. I try not to pick up books that are in any way associated with abuse because I just can't handle it but I'm glad that I took a chance on Leave A Mark. The story is more than just that abuse. Anyway, Wren was that perfectly flawed character. You're able to be with her as she relives what has happened and while she tries to free herself from the figurative prison she's voluntarily put herself into. And then Lee. Wonderful, Lee. He was the perfect hero in this story. I don't think that he could have been created in any other way and been as effective as Wren's counterpart. I fell in love with him quite quickly and I anxiously awaited each page he was on.
The story was completely heart wrenching. It really ran me through the wringer, emotion wise. I would cry and laugh and smile and swoon ... it was the perfect combination of all human emotions. You'll find yourself rooting for the characters and just hoping that things will work out. Because they just have to. This has to end happily, doesn't it? Well, I won't tell you how it ends or how it begins for that matter. Just know this ... Fournet is an author to watch. She's one that you'll want to keep up with for a long time. There's just so much more that I want to share but I can't. I can't ruin that for you.
I know that I'll remember this book for a long time. It's one that I'll be telling everyone I know about. Everyone needs to read this book to realize how very strong we can be. I wish that Leave A Mark was twice as long as it is because this is one book that I had a hard time putting down. You need to read it. It comes out on April 28th, go ahead and preorder it. You can thank me on the 29th.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
January 19, 2020
Quick read, easy-peasy, lovey-dovey.
July 23, 2024
In the beginning, I was set on giving this book at most 4 stars because I didn’t like that Lee wasn’t being proactive in breaking up with his girlfriend. But then I kept reading and he MORE than made up for it! He chased Wren the entire book and never once wavered in his feelings for her. You could just feel how much he loved and cared for her and how he appreciated what she brought to his life. I don’t usually like books where the H has loved before, but I honestly didn’t care here because Lee made it more than clear the he never loved anyone like he loved wren. Wren was so special to him and it was so sweet. The h pushed the H away a lot, but it was done in a way that didn’t bother me like it normally would.
And the epilogue🥹 he literally gives her his body as her canvas and lets her pick out and give him every tattoo he has, and he changed to wearing sleeveless shirts so he can show off how proud he is of the work shes done🥹I fucking loved Lee
And the epilogue🥹 he literally gives her his body as her canvas and lets her pick out and give him every tattoo he has, and he changed to wearing sleeveless shirts so he can show off how proud he is of the work shes done🥹I fucking loved Lee
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2016
4 stars
I really enjoyed this read! I loved when the leading man fights for the girl with teeth and nails.
So why not 5? Because of her....I wanted a little more fighting for them from her part AND it was low on the naughty side...but that´s just me.
♥
I really enjoyed this read! I loved when the leading man fights for the girl with teeth and nails.
So why not 5? Because of her....I wanted a little more fighting for them from her part AND it was low on the naughty side...but that´s just me.
♥
March 10, 2020
Stopped reading after he cheated on his girlfriend flirting with and kissing the heroine
Loyal my ass!
Loyal my ass!
January 3, 2017
I really was so consumed by this couple’s story. A doctor and a tattoo artist meet during an unfortunate medical emergency, and he wants to get to know her better while she’s hellbent on continuously turning him down. Lee is totally intrigued by Wren, but she’s been hurt in the past and doesn’t think herself worthy of him. He’s so good and compassionate. He’s just so driven to make her see that she’s worth so much more than she thinks. With Lee’s kindness and understanding, Wren works towards healing. This book is so beautiful, but extremely emotional as well. With loyal friends and a sweet man, Wren may just be able to lift herself up from the past that has so often plagued her quest to just let go and live.
The author displays a real honesty for the abuse that was inflicted. It was horrific and violating, but Wren was a survivor. And, as soon as she believes that, then she can get on with living. And, that’s why Lee was such a vital part of her healing. The couple couldn’t be more different in their looks, but the chemistry was there and they seemed to really be smitten with each other.
You will definitely shed some tears with this one. It will make you angry at certain family members that let such a violent act occur. But, it’s the end result of the abuse that really had me surprised and heartbroken. The truth and honesty with Wren was powerfully enlightening. She was much stronger than she lead people to believe with that feisty and confident personality. Lee just couldn’t get enough of her even though his life was not absent from chaos either. With a father so domineering, Lee had to prove over and over that he was a very capable and resilient guy. Not a very easy task when your family member is a smart and well-known man.
You will not be disappointed with this one. The story is engagingly written. From the first page that is turned, you will be hooked. There’s humor, drama, and romance. And, the romance is very enticing. Intimate. Sweet. Lee and Wren just fit together perfectly. Can’t wait to read another of this author’s work!
The author displays a real honesty for the abuse that was inflicted. It was horrific and violating, but Wren was a survivor. And, as soon as she believes that, then she can get on with living. And, that’s why Lee was such a vital part of her healing. The couple couldn’t be more different in their looks, but the chemistry was there and they seemed to really be smitten with each other.
You will definitely shed some tears with this one. It will make you angry at certain family members that let such a violent act occur. But, it’s the end result of the abuse that really had me surprised and heartbroken. The truth and honesty with Wren was powerfully enlightening. She was much stronger than she lead people to believe with that feisty and confident personality. Lee just couldn’t get enough of her even though his life was not absent from chaos either. With a father so domineering, Lee had to prove over and over that he was a very capable and resilient guy. Not a very easy task when your family member is a smart and well-known man.
You will not be disappointed with this one. The story is engagingly written. From the first page that is turned, you will be hooked. There’s humor, drama, and romance. And, the romance is very enticing. Intimate. Sweet. Lee and Wren just fit together perfectly. Can’t wait to read another of this author’s work!
not-for-me-or-undecided-about-them
September 16, 2016@ ~ 35%
The story is progressing slowly and a few of the hero's thoughts and responses rubbed me the wrong way...
There's not actual cheating but Lee doesn't tell Wren he's "taken" and he flirts making her think he could be interested in her while he's still engaged.
I really like the heroine and I'm still curious about their story so I'll pick it up again later. Right now I'm not in the mood for it.
The story is progressing slowly and a few of the hero's thoughts and responses rubbed me the wrong way...
“I’m good at staying,” Lee called, just as a woman pushed a stroller around him. Lee realized he blocked the middle of the sidewalk. “Pardon me, ma’am.”WHY would you say that? It was supposed to be funny but it didn't sound funny to me...that's not how you assure her you'll not "stray" as you did with the previous girlfriend...-_-
The young mother rolled her eyes at him as she passed.
“See, Wren? Another woman came along, and I didn’t stray!”
There's not actual cheating but Lee doesn't tell Wren he's "taken" and he flirts making her think he could be interested in her while he's still engaged.
I really like the heroine and I'm still curious about their story so I'll pick it up again later. Right now I'm not in the mood for it.
March 11, 2017
I loved this book. Reading this was so enjoyable I couldn't put it down (I had to make myself stop!) I must admit, I wasn't expecting much for some reason, so this was a pleasant surprise.
Wren is truly a heroine; she made sure to move on, get a job and live a life instead of falling into the same steps as her mother. She was a strong person yet at the same time fragile on some aspects, but in my opinion that only made her human and relatable.
And Lee. Ahh what can I say about him. He's the perfect hero and, similar to Wren, has some 'weaknesses'; but again, that only worked on his favour and made me enjoy the book much more. I loved how adamant he was about winning Wren's heart.
I highly reccomend reading this book :) I'm going to read more of this author for sure!
Wren is truly a heroine; she made sure to move on, get a job and live a life instead of falling into the same steps as her mother. She was a strong person yet at the same time fragile on some aspects, but in my opinion that only made her human and relatable.
And Lee. Ahh what can I say about him. He's the perfect hero and, similar to Wren, has some 'weaknesses'; but again, that only worked on his favour and made me enjoy the book much more. I loved how adamant he was about winning Wren's heart.
I highly reccomend reading this book :) I'm going to read more of this author for sure!
November 8, 2016
This is the sweetest read I've had in months.
Guys, really, I died from swooning and gushing over these two.
When you read a book wearing an idiotic smile it means something.
Even though there are some strong and sad parts, because Wren (the heroine) comes with baggage, this story and their characters never fail to make you happy and feel high on giddiness.
Loved it, very very very much.
Lee's love and patience, understanding and sweetness is everything. EVERYTHING.
The end was worth every hour I stayed awake instead of sleeping. The epilogue fills my heart like the smell of tacos when I enter my granny's home on Sundays.
You get me.
Guys, really, I died from swooning and gushing over these two.
When you read a book wearing an idiotic smile it means something.
Even though there are some strong and sad parts, because Wren (the heroine) comes with baggage, this story and their characters never fail to make you happy and feel high on giddiness.
Loved it, very very very much.
Lee's love and patience, understanding and sweetness is everything. EVERYTHING.
The end was worth every hour I stayed awake instead of sleeping. The epilogue fills my heart like the smell of tacos when I enter my granny's home on Sundays.
You get me.
May 15, 2016
I love the series Blindspot so I knew going in that I was really going to enjoy this book full of body art & I did.Though not as fast paced as the TV series this almost fairy tale like novel about a quirky tattooist with a dark past & a doctor with a soul of a poet is nevertheless just as enthralling.
July 24, 2016
4 or 5 stars so I went with the higher one. I really enjoyed this one. I think mostly because of how all in the hero was. The heroine was well written as an abuse survivor who is willing to open herself up and she eventually moves on. The relationship felt real and was fully developed. I would definitely be willing to try others by this author.
June 24, 2020
I love it when I discover a new book and author that I love. This book was amazing! I loved everything about it.
August 17, 2018
It is simply sweet & romantic : the characters are captivating... this book is a treasure trove of a LOVE STORY !!
December 8, 2016
Perfection. The right amount of angst that wasn't petty or waste of time stupid. Just sweet great romance. Definitely a S. Fournet fan now!
December 4, 2021
This fucking book made me cry.
Someone as rare and wild and lovely as Wren Blanchard existed in the world, and this was reason enough to lose himself for a moment or two.
Leave a Mark is simple, sweet, and adorable. A defensive tattoo artist ends up on the operating table of a doctor with a surface-level perfect life, but who still feels something missing. A hippocratic oath inspired ride home from the hospital, plus a series of chance encounters, ignites a spark that neither of them can deny.
But Wren Blanchard doesn't believe in love. With her past, it's no surprise really. And she's determined not to fall for Dr. Lee Hawthorne, no badly how badly she may want to. Throw in puppies, a cranky cat, homemade baked goods, and Joss Whedon, and you have a love story that might be a smidgen too sweet, but still satisfying.
An adorable, well-written love story with good character development and low on manufactured drama, Leave a Mark doesn't do anything especially groundbreaking. But it nails it when it comes to execution and chemistry, and it really sticks the landing. I couldn't ask for much more.
Someone as rare and wild and lovely as Wren Blanchard existed in the world, and this was reason enough to lose himself for a moment or two.
Leave a Mark is simple, sweet, and adorable. A defensive tattoo artist ends up on the operating table of a doctor with a surface-level perfect life, but who still feels something missing. A hippocratic oath inspired ride home from the hospital, plus a series of chance encounters, ignites a spark that neither of them can deny.
But Wren Blanchard doesn't believe in love. With her past, it's no surprise really. And she's determined not to fall for Dr. Lee Hawthorne, no badly how badly she may want to. Throw in puppies, a cranky cat, homemade baked goods, and Joss Whedon, and you have a love story that might be a smidgen too sweet, but still satisfying.
An adorable, well-written love story with good character development and low on manufactured drama, Leave a Mark doesn't do anything especially groundbreaking. But it nails it when it comes to execution and chemistry, and it really sticks the landing. I couldn't ask for much more.
March 16, 2024
No strong representation of diverse characters or minority identities.
Overall: 4-stars
Although this book isn't safe and pushes many of my "no" buttons in romances, I still really enjoyed my re-read. My biggest caveat is that I hated Lee is so convinced he's a "nice guy" that he doesn't realize how his actions are so incredibly self-centered and hurtful to both his current gf and Wren (the Heroine, who he led on in the beginning). He rationalizes to himself - and Wren! - that he was "just being friendly," but come on. Women can tell the difference between being neighbourly and a guy who acts interested, smh. I wish he had owned up to both women where his head was at and that he spent time grovelling to Wren for putting her in such an awkward and hurtful position. But, nope. Instead, the rest of the book was him trying to win back her trust so that she'd go on a date with him and fall for him. Which wasn't bad - I still gave the book 4 stars - but it wasn't up to my standards. Also, this was a romance where I needed an extended epilogue where I could just see them happy without any ghosts (exes or trauma from this past) casting a pall over their relationship.
Safety Rating: Not Safe
Possible Triggers: Yes
Ending:
Overall: 4-stars
Although this book isn't safe and pushes many of my "no" buttons in romances, I still really enjoyed my re-read. My biggest caveat is that I hated Lee is so convinced he's a "nice guy" that he doesn't realize how his actions are so incredibly self-centered and hurtful to both his current gf and Wren (the Heroine, who he led on in the beginning). He rationalizes to himself - and Wren! - that he was "just being friendly," but come on. Women can tell the difference between being neighbourly and a guy who acts interested, smh. I wish he had owned up to both women where his head was at and that he spent time grovelling to Wren for putting her in such an awkward and hurtful position. But, nope. Instead, the rest of the book was him trying to win back her trust so that she'd go on a date with him and fall for him. Which wasn't bad - I still gave the book 4 stars - but it wasn't up to my standards. Also, this was a romance where I needed an extended epilogue where I could just see them happy without any ghosts (exes or trauma from this past) casting a pall over their relationship.
Safety Rating: Not Safe
Possible Triggers: Yes
Ending:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2018
Leave A Mark
You, foolish: This book seems cheesy, maybe bad
Me, wise: Actually they’re in love and it’s extremely good you absolute FOOL
You, foolish: This book seems cheesy, maybe bad
Me, wise: Actually they’re in love and it’s extremely good you absolute FOOL
June 1, 2016
Right so I didn't like the start of this book, and anyone who doesn't like cheating &flirting while in a realationship or anything like that will hate it but... Get past that and the story starts to build depth and heart and so much fucking emotion it threatens to overwhelm you.
Ignore the first bit and the hero will kill you kindness because he so fucking sweet and besotted with the heroine that you sat there reading it sighing and batting you eyelashes wishing you had mr romance for yourself.
Lee is not you typical alpha caveman hero.. He's more the romantic sweetheart with gentle touches and whispered sweet nothings, But he is a fantastic hero all the same. His constant support and acceptance of wren was breathtaking and the way he handled her even when she was pushing him away so freaking hard was truly beautiful.
Wren was so broken it was heart breaking, Her low opinion of herself and love devastated me to read.
She was alive but she wasn't living and she was ok with it because in her mind it's was she deserved. She was a fantastic heroine even though she was pushing him away 60% of the book(normally that would piss me off but it didn't with this) she was fiesty and strong in her own right and I loved that about her.
Normally for me I need the sex in a book..
1 because well I like it.
2 because for me I need to know they have that connection inside the bedroom aswell as out.
3 well again cause I like it.
There isn't a lot at all in this book but oddly enough it didn't need it. I'm not going to lie though.. It took me to the end of this book before I could decide I really liked it. The ending was perfect though.
So yes it's not for everyone, but it's definetly worth the read. And again even though there is a kiss shared at the beginning when he's still in a relationship it's worth getting over it to read the rest.
Also it's refreshing to read the good boy and tattood cool chick instead of the tattooed manwhore and good girl storylines you normally get(though I do love them to).
xo
Ignore the first bit and the hero will kill you kindness because he so fucking sweet and besotted with the heroine that you sat there reading it sighing and batting you eyelashes wishing you had mr romance for yourself.
Lee is not you typical alpha caveman hero.. He's more the romantic sweetheart with gentle touches and whispered sweet nothings, But he is a fantastic hero all the same. His constant support and acceptance of wren was breathtaking and the way he handled her even when she was pushing him away so freaking hard was truly beautiful.
Wren was so broken it was heart breaking, Her low opinion of herself and love devastated me to read.
She was alive but she wasn't living and she was ok with it because in her mind it's was she deserved. She was a fantastic heroine even though she was pushing him away 60% of the book(normally that would piss me off but it didn't with this) she was fiesty and strong in her own right and I loved that about her.
Normally for me I need the sex in a book..
1 because well I like it.
2 because for me I need to know they have that connection inside the bedroom aswell as out.
3 well again cause I like it.
There isn't a lot at all in this book but oddly enough it didn't need it. I'm not going to lie though.. It took me to the end of this book before I could decide I really liked it. The ending was perfect though.
So yes it's not for everyone, but it's definetly worth the read. And again even though there is a kiss shared at the beginning when he's still in a relationship it's worth getting over it to read the rest.
Also it's refreshing to read the good boy and tattood cool chick instead of the tattooed manwhore and good girl storylines you normally get(though I do love them to).
xo
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