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Bleeding Scars MC #1
Cut Wide Open
One day you held my hand. One day you loved me.
Then you were gone.
I lost the only love I’d ever known. Thrown back into the foster system, pregnant and alone, I prayed that you’d come for me and save me from life’s cruelties. Only the next time I saw you, it was too late.
Doing what I needed to do to provide for my son, we were finally brought face to face. It should have been the best day of my life, but it was far from it. It was the worst.
That day a monster took me.
I begged. I prayed. I dreamt of you, the memories keeping me alive.
You finally came for me. You were my heart. My Salvation.
But sometimes the heart is too damaged, too broken, to be saved.
And sometimes monsters have a way of coming back to haunt me.
*This is a dark story. It is intended for mature audiences. If you need a trigger warning then this book isn’t for you. I have other books of mine that I’d recommend like Current or Tainted by Crazy, but not this one.
*This story does not have a cliffhanger. It is left open ended as this is a stand-alone series and the overall story line will continue between books, however, each book will be able to be read as a stand-alone.
Then you were gone.
I lost the only love I’d ever known. Thrown back into the foster system, pregnant and alone, I prayed that you’d come for me and save me from life’s cruelties. Only the next time I saw you, it was too late.
Doing what I needed to do to provide for my son, we were finally brought face to face. It should have been the best day of my life, but it was far from it. It was the worst.
That day a monster took me.
I begged. I prayed. I dreamt of you, the memories keeping me alive.
You finally came for me. You were my heart. My Salvation.
But sometimes the heart is too damaged, too broken, to be saved.
And sometimes monsters have a way of coming back to haunt me.
*This is a dark story. It is intended for mature audiences. If you need a trigger warning then this book isn’t for you. I have other books of mine that I’d recommend like Current or Tainted by Crazy, but not this one.
*This story does not have a cliffhanger. It is left open ended as this is a stand-alone series and the overall story line will continue between books, however, each book will be able to be read as a stand-alone.
293 pages, Unknown Binding
First published March 20, 2017
265 people are currently reading
729 people want to read
About the author
Abby McCarthy
15 books588 followers Abby McCarthy is an Ohio author. She is the author of over ten novels ranging from contemporary romance, motorcycle club romances, and Paranormal romance. She is a mother of three, a wife and a dog person. When she is not managing a full household or writing, she enjoys being on the water, in a park, or with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
July 21, 2017
4 stars!
Cut Wide Open is a gritty second chance biker romance. I really enjoyed how the story started out, with Charlie and Gunner as kids. I liked seeing them turn into teenagers and watching their romance blossom. Something big tore the two apart, and as adults, they found one another again. A beautiful second chance romance!
I really loved the heroine in this book. She went through so much, but she was resilient. A true survivor. Gunner was great, too. This story definitely had some grit. There were a few hard to read scenes. This book is not for the faint of heart. Side note- I listened to the audio book and I thought the narrator did a great job.
This is the second Abby McCarthy book I’ve read, and I’ve noticed a big change in her writing. I mean that in the best way possible. Her writing has grown and I’m excited to read more form her! Hopefully from this particular MC! Although Charlie and Gunner’s story was complete, there is a lot of ways the author could go with this series and I’m anxious to read more and see where it goes!
Cut Wide Open is a gritty second chance biker romance. I really enjoyed how the story started out, with Charlie and Gunner as kids. I liked seeing them turn into teenagers and watching their romance blossom. Something big tore the two apart, and as adults, they found one another again. A beautiful second chance romance!
I really loved the heroine in this book. She went through so much, but she was resilient. A true survivor. Gunner was great, too. This story definitely had some grit. There were a few hard to read scenes. This book is not for the faint of heart. Side note- I listened to the audio book and I thought the narrator did a great job.
This is the second Abby McCarthy book I’ve read, and I’ve noticed a big change in her writing. I mean that in the best way possible. Her writing has grown and I’m excited to read more form her! Hopefully from this particular MC! Although Charlie and Gunner’s story was complete, there is a lot of ways the author could go with this series and I’m anxious to read more and see where it goes!
March 9, 2017
First of all this cover is HOT. Like crazy smokin' hot. Aside from that, it's a good representation of the hero. The composition is very well done. The typography is eye-catching. Basically, I love everything about this cover!
I want to say I loved this one but that seems a bit trite considering the subject matter. This book is hefty on the rape and torture of the heroine. In fact, it is one of the reasons it wasn't a total 5-star read for me. I didn't need chapter after chapter of fairly descriptive abuse towards the heroine to get the picture of what was happening to her. I would have much rather the author spent that page time building the relationship between Gunner and Charlie. 
Which brings me to reason number two my rating is 4-stars and not higher. Gunner and Charlie are separated for 50% of this book. We see a little bit of them as kids/teens at the beginning, but then it isn't until halfway through when Gunner rescues her that we get to see them as a couple again. And like I said above I would have much rather have gotten more page time devoted to their relationship and the heroine's recovery than her abuse. Especially since I felt her recovery was a little rushed for all she had been through.
NOW that being said. I still really enjoyed this one. The author has a very readable way of writing. It was nicely paced. It had some good action. Had great side characters. An adorable kid. I loved the MC vibe and look forward to books featuring the other guys. So overall this one gets the two thumbs up from yours truly.
March 16, 2017
4.5 Stars
This is the second book I have read by Abby and wow!! Her writing has grown and she has dipped her toes into the dark side of things. Actually, she jumped right into the dark side of things compared to the other book I read.
Cut Wide Open is the first book in what I am hoping will be an amazing series to come. This book is about Gunner and Charlie, aka Mouse. You get a lot of background on these two; starting out with where they come from, to what happened in between to the here and now.
Abby's writing style really accentuated these characters - it helped breathe life into them and gave them a harder edge. You could easily sense the grit and rawness in these characters. Abby lays it all out there and doesn't really hold much back. There are some scenes that she doesn't go too into detail over, but the lead up to it, you get the idea and possibly thank her for not taking you to those depths.
I read somewhere about this book that Abby humanizes these characters and I couldn't agree more. She makes the reader understand their reasoning for redemption and their hostility. You also understand where Mouse gets her strength and the perseverance to stand strong and move on. Not let her past dictate her present or future. And Gunner - lord, that man. His determination to never give up on Charlie is heart wrenching and shows another side to him.
Abby has started this series off with a huge hit and I can't wait to see what she brings us next. She has introduced a lot of great characters to us with some interesting backgrounds that I am itching to know more about. I know that Charlie and Gunner's story is far from over too.
If you enjoy a darker read, I would definitely recommend this book as one to add to your TBR list.
This is the second book I have read by Abby and wow!! Her writing has grown and she has dipped her toes into the dark side of things. Actually, she jumped right into the dark side of things compared to the other book I read.
Cut Wide Open is the first book in what I am hoping will be an amazing series to come. This book is about Gunner and Charlie, aka Mouse. You get a lot of background on these two; starting out with where they come from, to what happened in between to the here and now.
Abby's writing style really accentuated these characters - it helped breathe life into them and gave them a harder edge. You could easily sense the grit and rawness in these characters. Abby lays it all out there and doesn't really hold much back. There are some scenes that she doesn't go too into detail over, but the lead up to it, you get the idea and possibly thank her for not taking you to those depths.
I read somewhere about this book that Abby humanizes these characters and I couldn't agree more. She makes the reader understand their reasoning for redemption and their hostility. You also understand where Mouse gets her strength and the perseverance to stand strong and move on. Not let her past dictate her present or future. And Gunner - lord, that man. His determination to never give up on Charlie is heart wrenching and shows another side to him.
Abby has started this series off with a huge hit and I can't wait to see what she brings us next. She has introduced a lot of great characters to us with some interesting backgrounds that I am itching to know more about. I know that Charlie and Gunner's story is far from over too.
If you enjoy a darker read, I would definitely recommend this book as one to add to your TBR list.
March 22, 2017
Our Review
Gunner and Charlotte
This is our first time reading this author and I am happy to say that we enjoyed our first read by them.We will be looking forward to reading more in this series for sure.
We love reading about those sexy bad boys and those hot as hell bikers they always take care of that fix for us.We always enjoy finding new authors to help with that addiction of them and we are glad to have come across this author to feed our needs.
Gunner and Charlotte were high school sweethearts.They have developed a deep connection between one another the kind that lasts a lifetime. Unfortunately life gets in the way of their happily after ever.Will these Soul Mates find their way back to one another?
I have to say that I loved the story cover to cover.I will point our that it is not a story for the faint of heart.The story contains rape,torture,human trafficking all done by the worst kind of monster which made it such a heart wrenching read.I have to say that this story touched my emotions on so many levels and at times made me a bit nervous and afraid of what would happen next.I cannot imagine how Charlotte survived the horrific things that were done to her.I takes a very strong person to survive and Charlotte's main focus had always been about getting back to her son.Love is what motivated her to survive and perhaps stay sane and hopefully survive the aftermath of it all.
I admired Charlotte as she was always a survivor even since childhood.I love how she was a strong and loving and giving mother.I loved the bond that she had with her son and that of Gunner.My heart broke for the things that Charlotte endeared her entire life.I loved how she survived to become a survivor and not that of a victim. I love how her heart always belonged to Gunner even though they were apart.I love reading about a couple that their love survives the test of time.
I alway pick a favorite character in a story and mine this time around is going to be Gunner.I picked Gunner because he surprised me most about what he felt ,how he acted,and how he followed through with things.I love how he never gave up his search for Charlotte and how he never stopped loving her.I loved that fact that his heart had always belonged to her whether they were together or apart .All these things surprised me the most because of the way he chose to live his current life. His heart always remained opened and never became hardened or jaded unlike most men who chose that kind of life he led.I loved that about him the most.I loved how furiously he loved Jade and that of his son and the lengths he would go to kept them safe.
Gunner was very intense,dangerous,serious,edgy,handsome,love-able all wrapped up into one bad boy package that us girls can't help but fall for.I loved the chemistry between Charlotte and himself it made for some very hot sexual encounters.
I enjoyed this story and all its character's.I love when you are able to connect with the characters that you read about and I was able to do that.The different personalties of the other MC members added to making story a bit more lighter especially when a plot is riddled with pain and suffering.I was engrossed in the plot and that of its characters from the very first pages.I loved that once I started reading the story I couldn't put it down.I loved how intense the story became with its twists and turns it took and I loved that fact that a couple so in love were able to find each other again and get a chance for their Happily Ever After.The story kept you on edge the entire time with anticipation of what would happen next as the secrets kept coming to life one after another.This was definitely a story that you could not help let it affect your heart strings as it did to mine.I loved this intense love story with all of its twist and turns it made for a very enticing and an engrossing read.
A recommended read to all !
Full review @ http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-...
Gunner and Charlotte
This is our first time reading this author and I am happy to say that we enjoyed our first read by them.We will be looking forward to reading more in this series for sure.
We love reading about those sexy bad boys and those hot as hell bikers they always take care of that fix for us.We always enjoy finding new authors to help with that addiction of them and we are glad to have come across this author to feed our needs.
Gunner and Charlotte were high school sweethearts.They have developed a deep connection between one another the kind that lasts a lifetime. Unfortunately life gets in the way of their happily after ever.Will these Soul Mates find their way back to one another?
I have to say that I loved the story cover to cover.I will point our that it is not a story for the faint of heart.The story contains rape,torture,human trafficking all done by the worst kind of monster which made it such a heart wrenching read.I have to say that this story touched my emotions on so many levels and at times made me a bit nervous and afraid of what would happen next.I cannot imagine how Charlotte survived the horrific things that were done to her.I takes a very strong person to survive and Charlotte's main focus had always been about getting back to her son.Love is what motivated her to survive and perhaps stay sane and hopefully survive the aftermath of it all.
I admired Charlotte as she was always a survivor even since childhood.I love how she was a strong and loving and giving mother.I loved the bond that she had with her son and that of Gunner.My heart broke for the things that Charlotte endeared her entire life.I loved how she survived to become a survivor and not that of a victim. I love how her heart always belonged to Gunner even though they were apart.I love reading about a couple that their love survives the test of time.
I alway pick a favorite character in a story and mine this time around is going to be Gunner.I picked Gunner because he surprised me most about what he felt ,how he acted,and how he followed through with things.I love how he never gave up his search for Charlotte and how he never stopped loving her.I loved that fact that his heart had always belonged to her whether they were together or apart .All these things surprised me the most because of the way he chose to live his current life. His heart always remained opened and never became hardened or jaded unlike most men who chose that kind of life he led.I loved that about him the most.I loved how furiously he loved Jade and that of his son and the lengths he would go to kept them safe.
Gunner was very intense,dangerous,serious,edgy,handsome,love-able all wrapped up into one bad boy package that us girls can't help but fall for.I loved the chemistry between Charlotte and himself it made for some very hot sexual encounters.
I enjoyed this story and all its character's.I love when you are able to connect with the characters that you read about and I was able to do that.The different personalties of the other MC members added to making story a bit more lighter especially when a plot is riddled with pain and suffering.I was engrossed in the plot and that of its characters from the very first pages.I loved that once I started reading the story I couldn't put it down.I loved how intense the story became with its twists and turns it took and I loved that fact that a couple so in love were able to find each other again and get a chance for their Happily Ever After.The story kept you on edge the entire time with anticipation of what would happen next as the secrets kept coming to life one after another.This was definitely a story that you could not help let it affect your heart strings as it did to mine.I loved this intense love story with all of its twist and turns it made for a very enticing and an engrossing read.
A recommended read to all !
Full review @ http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-...
October 22, 2022
The couple: Gunner and Charlie
Romance trope: MC; kidnapping
Series: Bleeding Scars MC
Length: 293 pages
Plot: Gunner and Charlie met when they were young. Charlie's foster family lived next door to Gunner's family, and they became friends, and then something more. But the day that they finally came together as a couple was the last time they got to see each other. Gunner's new stepfather forced him into the MC lifestyle and they kept him from going back to Charlie. Charlie ended up pregnant and had to leave her foster home. When they next see each other, Charlie is working in a seedy strip club and Gunner is part of a new MC. But he's not the only one who has noticed her, and when a drug lord wants Charlie for his own, Gunner will need to do everything possible to save Charlie and their son.
Commentary: Foster child with apathetic parents lives next door to an abused child. No wonder they became friends. But then they become something more - but only once - and are immediately separated. Charlie has their son with no way to get in touch with Gunner. I did like that these two were separated but not because either of them did something wrong. They never forget each other or fell out of love.
But then we have the addition of the drug cartel leader who wants Charlie - basically just to use and abuse her. He's also somehow mixed up with the MC scene in the area, and his kidnapping Charlie is all wrapped up in what he wants and in getting revenge on the MC. Gunner does not stop looking for her. But I like the way he dove right in to take care of their son. Gunnar was very sweet with both of them.
There were a few things that were unbelievable - Charlie being okay to have sex with Gunner so soon after being repeatedly raped (you know, because Gunner told her not to think about it), the neighbor who handed the kid over to Gunner with little argument. Even the ragtag MC being able to find Charlie made me wonder. However, despite those things, I enjoyed this story primarily for the bond that the main characters shared even through their separation.
Next book in the series: Explosive
Romance trope: MC; kidnapping
Series: Bleeding Scars MC
Length: 293 pages
Plot: Gunner and Charlie met when they were young. Charlie's foster family lived next door to Gunner's family, and they became friends, and then something more. But the day that they finally came together as a couple was the last time they got to see each other. Gunner's new stepfather forced him into the MC lifestyle and they kept him from going back to Charlie. Charlie ended up pregnant and had to leave her foster home. When they next see each other, Charlie is working in a seedy strip club and Gunner is part of a new MC. But he's not the only one who has noticed her, and when a drug lord wants Charlie for his own, Gunner will need to do everything possible to save Charlie and their son.
Commentary: Foster child with apathetic parents lives next door to an abused child. No wonder they became friends. But then they become something more - but only once - and are immediately separated. Charlie has their son with no way to get in touch with Gunner. I did like that these two were separated but not because either of them did something wrong. They never forget each other or fell out of love.
But then we have the addition of the drug cartel leader who wants Charlie - basically just to use and abuse her. He's also somehow mixed up with the MC scene in the area, and his kidnapping Charlie is all wrapped up in what he wants and in getting revenge on the MC. Gunner does not stop looking for her. But I like the way he dove right in to take care of their son. Gunnar was very sweet with both of them.
There were a few things that were unbelievable - Charlie being okay to have sex with Gunner so soon after being repeatedly raped (you know, because Gunner told her not to think about it), the neighbor who handed the kid over to Gunner with little argument. Even the ragtag MC being able to find Charlie made me wonder. However, despite those things, I enjoyed this story primarily for the bond that the main characters shared even through their separation.
Next book in the series: Explosive
September 9, 2017
I have to say I almost dnf'd this towards the end. The beginning tugged on my heart strings and had me tearing up. Overall I liked it but I can't quite figure out what was missing for me. The part that had me almost dnfing it was ...
Read
May 2, 2017DNF 34% ===>Villain sexually abusing our heroine = I wasn't with mental health to read scenes where the heroine was abused after a shitty life she had. Who knows, maybe another time I can read.
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I confess that I had not read the blurb. I downloaded the book because I like the author. My mistake.
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I confess that I had not read the blurb. I downloaded the book because I like the author. My mistake.
April 2, 2017
Pulled me in
Wow this book pulled me in so much. Even though there were parts I struggled with I had to keep going. Loved that Gunner found his Mouse. Am looking forward to the next book.
Wow this book pulled me in so much. Even though there were parts I struggled with I had to keep going. Loved that Gunner found his Mouse. Am looking forward to the next book.
March 5, 2017
I give Cut Wide Open 5 stars, for keeping my senses on alert through the whole book. I felt so many emotions for Charlie, disdain at her mother, and foster parents, sadness at Gunner, hatred and fear from her monster when he captured her, empathy for what she endured, but most of all, love...which she showed and dished out in spades.
Abby McCarthy is a new author to me and I can guarantee I'll be reading more from her. Her writing style was great and flowed with ease. She impressed me with this story and the characters were outstanding.
Gunner and Charlie were forever united when she was sixteen. They made love and the next day he was gone. When she next saw him, it was too late...her life would never be the same. When the monster took her, she prayed she would see her son again, and memories of Gunner kept her going. He finally saved her, but would she ever be the same?
Gunner Reed became part of a MC when he was barely an adult and has remained part of one since. His father had died, his mother had a new boyfriend and he led them to this lifestyle. Wanting to get to Charlotte, his Mouse, he attempted to leave, but was quickly reminded that once in a MC, always in. What did they do to him?
Charlotte (Charlie) Morris was a foster child. She watched Gunner since she was eight years old. At sixteen, they found solace in each other. Soon after, she was pregnant and thrown back into the system. She would do what she had to to take care of her son. When she finally met Gunner again, it was the best and the worst day of her life. What happened to her?
Cut Wide Open is a MC romance novel that has bikes, guns, violence, and the usual biker rivalries but with twists and turns that makes it very interesting.
I truly enjoyed this novel and look forward to hearing more about this MC. Take a ride on the wild side and follow Gunner and Charlie and all their associates.
Abby McCarthy is a new author to me and I can guarantee I'll be reading more from her. Her writing style was great and flowed with ease. She impressed me with this story and the characters were outstanding.
Gunner and Charlie were forever united when she was sixteen. They made love and the next day he was gone. When she next saw him, it was too late...her life would never be the same. When the monster took her, she prayed she would see her son again, and memories of Gunner kept her going. He finally saved her, but would she ever be the same?
Gunner Reed became part of a MC when he was barely an adult and has remained part of one since. His father had died, his mother had a new boyfriend and he led them to this lifestyle. Wanting to get to Charlotte, his Mouse, he attempted to leave, but was quickly reminded that once in a MC, always in. What did they do to him?
Charlotte (Charlie) Morris was a foster child. She watched Gunner since she was eight years old. At sixteen, they found solace in each other. Soon after, she was pregnant and thrown back into the system. She would do what she had to to take care of her son. When she finally met Gunner again, it was the best and the worst day of her life. What happened to her?
Cut Wide Open is a MC romance novel that has bikes, guns, violence, and the usual biker rivalries but with twists and turns that makes it very interesting.
I truly enjoyed this novel and look forward to hearing more about this MC. Take a ride on the wild side and follow Gunner and Charlie and all their associates.
Want to read
January 19, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/19/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
One day you held my hand. One day you loved me.
Then you were gone.
I lost the only love I’d ever known. Thrown back into the foster system, pregnant and alone, I prayed that you’d come for me and save me from life’s cruelties. Only the next time I saw you, it was too late.
Doing what I needed to do to provide for my son, we were finally brought face to face. It should have been the best day of my life, but it was far from it. It was the worst.
That day a monster took me.
I begged. I prayed. I dreamt of you, the memories keeping me alive.
You finally came for me. You were my heart. My Salvation.
But sometimes the heart is too damaged, too broken, to be saved.
And sometimes monsters have a way of coming back to haunt me.
Blurb:
One day you held my hand. One day you loved me.
Then you were gone.
I lost the only love I’d ever known. Thrown back into the foster system, pregnant and alone, I prayed that you’d come for me and save me from life’s cruelties. Only the next time I saw you, it was too late.
Doing what I needed to do to provide for my son, we were finally brought face to face. It should have been the best day of my life, but it was far from it. It was the worst.
That day a monster took me.
I begged. I prayed. I dreamt of you, the memories keeping me alive.
You finally came for me. You were my heart. My Salvation.
But sometimes the heart is too damaged, too broken, to be saved.
And sometimes monsters have a way of coming back to haunt me.
November 24, 2019
Been a while since I last read an MC themed story and I decided to listen to the audio version of this while looking for stories about 'surprise babies.'
There is way more to this story than an unplanned pregnancy though! In fact, a lot of this story is pretty graphic and gruesome so if you have any triggers this will not be the book for you.
I did get invested in the story, despite the level of darkness and I'm glad I took the time to listen :)
There is way more to this story than an unplanned pregnancy though! In fact, a lot of this story is pretty graphic and gruesome so if you have any triggers this will not be the book for you.
I did get invested in the story, despite the level of darkness and I'm glad I took the time to listen :)
March 24, 2017
Love, love, LOVE this book! New to me author, Abby McCarthy, blew me away with Cut Wide Open. First and foremost, their story beginning in their childhood was so incredibly perfect. When I say childhood, I don't mean high school. That in itself created such richness and purity to their anything but story. The plot itself isn't anything brand spanking new to this genre. I mean, it's been done before but...truth be told...most of the time it lacks the one thing that Cut Wide Open carries in spades and that's heart.
Be warned, this story took an unexpected, dark turn. Some parts were, indeed, hard to read but again, even in the darkest of times, there's a richness in the flow of the storyline that kept it from feeling as though it was all for the shock and awe. Gunner is simply delish but carries the world on his shoulder. He's the ultimate alpha male with a cautious vulnerability that can sometimes make him impulsive and therefore a bit unstable. Grey characters work for me. Always.
Charlie's a strong heroine who has been to hell, back and to hell yet again. The girl wasn't given much of a chance from the word 'go' yet she never completely broke. I never felt sorry for her and that's important to me considering my favorite genre's are often overflowing with pansy ass females who can't handle their own.
Even though it made perfect sense, her nickname didn't quite work for me. That's a personal preference kind of thing though and didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the story itself. On a side note, the nod to Sons of Anarchy and the subtle hint that as I read about Gunner, I should keep in mind that he resembles Jax...yeah, good call. Overall a great read and I can't wait to see what's next from Ms. McCarthy!
***Please heed to the authors warning. There are extremely dark elements to this story and in some cases go into great detail. May prove difficult for some readers.
Be warned, this story took an unexpected, dark turn. Some parts were, indeed, hard to read but again, even in the darkest of times, there's a richness in the flow of the storyline that kept it from feeling as though it was all for the shock and awe. Gunner is simply delish but carries the world on his shoulder. He's the ultimate alpha male with a cautious vulnerability that can sometimes make him impulsive and therefore a bit unstable. Grey characters work for me. Always.
Charlie's a strong heroine who has been to hell, back and to hell yet again. The girl wasn't given much of a chance from the word 'go' yet she never completely broke. I never felt sorry for her and that's important to me considering my favorite genre's are often overflowing with pansy ass females who can't handle their own.
Even though it made perfect sense, her nickname didn't quite work for me. That's a personal preference kind of thing though and didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the story itself. On a side note, the nod to Sons of Anarchy and the subtle hint that as I read about Gunner, I should keep in mind that he resembles Jax...yeah, good call. Overall a great read and I can't wait to see what's next from Ms. McCarthy!
***Please heed to the authors warning. There are extremely dark elements to this story and in some cases go into great detail. May prove difficult for some readers.
March 7, 2017
4.5 stars
Second chance, motorcycle and baby....yep I'm in!!!
Wow, what a ride. This book starts with the back story of how Charlie and Gunner meet and are separated. I'm not going to lie, this didn't grab me right away but I was intrigued. When we get to present day and see what our main characters are up to, it was full throttle. Gunner is one of the founding members of Bleeding Scars MC. Charlie is a dancer...at a strip club. She doing the best she can to support herself and her son. Though they've both been looking for the other, their reunion isn't exactly joyful. Thanks all I'm going to say, except READ it.
Second chance, motorcycle and baby....yep I'm in!!!
Wow, what a ride. This book starts with the back story of how Charlie and Gunner meet and are separated. I'm not going to lie, this didn't grab me right away but I was intrigued. When we get to present day and see what our main characters are up to, it was full throttle. Gunner is one of the founding members of Bleeding Scars MC. Charlie is a dancer...at a strip club. She doing the best she can to support herself and her son. Though they've both been looking for the other, their reunion isn't exactly joyful. Thanks all I'm going to say, except READ it.
March 23, 2017
Title: Cut Wide Open
Author: Abby McCarthy
4 unexpected stars
Wow! My first book by Abby McCarthy was even better than i could have imagined. It had the perfect blend of darkness, mystery, suspense, MCs and erotic romance that kept me at the edge of my seat. Hearing how Charlie's childhood was wrought with so much sadness that my heart broke and how Gunner tried to save her lifted me like there was no tomorrow.
4.5 sexy dreams
This is the kind of book that you have to read - the one that will show you just how much a person can handle and still manage to survive. To see just how much Charlie will go though for her son and for love, and how Gunner will fight for justice and to protect what is his. As dark as the subjects discussed were, Cut Wide Open sill told a beautiful story of love and second chances. My first book by Abby McCarthy gave me a great taste of what she has to offer and i look forward to reading more of this series in the future.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Author: Abby McCarthy
4 unexpected stars
Wow! My first book by Abby McCarthy was even better than i could have imagined. It had the perfect blend of darkness, mystery, suspense, MCs and erotic romance that kept me at the edge of my seat. Hearing how Charlie's childhood was wrought with so much sadness that my heart broke and how Gunner tried to save her lifted me like there was no tomorrow.
4.5 sexy dreams
This is the kind of book that you have to read - the one that will show you just how much a person can handle and still manage to survive. To see just how much Charlie will go though for her son and for love, and how Gunner will fight for justice and to protect what is his. As dark as the subjects discussed were, Cut Wide Open sill told a beautiful story of love and second chances. My first book by Abby McCarthy gave me a great taste of what she has to offer and i look forward to reading more of this series in the future.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
March 10, 2017
Holy #1 book of the year! This book man oh man....I have loved all of Abby's book but this one (fans self and swoons) is must definitely my favorite. I was in a complete book funk before starting this book and this pulled me out faster then any book ever could of. I don't think i have enough words to express how much i fell in love with this book. It has so much of what I love in a story, Romance, suspense, twists and turns, mind blowing and intense scenes, a hot hot hot alpha, a incredible strong heroine, I was actually mad at myself at one point because I couldn't read fast enough. Gunner and Charlie are everything i look for in a couple and as individuals. Trying to leave a review without giving anything away is so hard but this is a book you defiantly don't want to miss out on. Abby is such an amazing writer and really knows how to bring you into these characters lives. I felt so invested in Gunner and Charlies story i felt like i was living it right along side them. This women hasn't disappointed me yet. Everyone needs to run out and get this book!
April 17, 2017
Charlie and Gunner had been friends since they were kids. Each had sad home lives and their friendship helped them get through it all—until he left her—pregnant—alone. Back in the foster system began her journey in hell. The only light was her child.
Gunner didn't leave because he wanted to. He had no choice. When he finally came for her, she was gone. He didn't give up. Along the way, he made a new family. His MC club. These guys had his back.
When he finally found her again and went back, once more she was gone. Again he searched. The story of their lives is dark, vicious, and dangerous. Will they find each other? Can they overcome the cruel hand dealt them?
The strength of Charlie is amazing. Her will to survive unsurpassed. Gunner is a good man who had done and does bad things. Inside they are both people of honor. Their love is strong and their willingness to forgive and try again something few would accomplish. This story is not a cozy romance. The sex is gritty. The language is hard. The men and women harder. If you are looking for tenderness, you will find it buried deeply in the heart of two people whose lives most would not live through. I could not put it down. A five star recommend from me.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
Gunner didn't leave because he wanted to. He had no choice. When he finally came for her, she was gone. He didn't give up. Along the way, he made a new family. His MC club. These guys had his back.
When he finally found her again and went back, once more she was gone. Again he searched. The story of their lives is dark, vicious, and dangerous. Will they find each other? Can they overcome the cruel hand dealt them?
The strength of Charlie is amazing. Her will to survive unsurpassed. Gunner is a good man who had done and does bad things. Inside they are both people of honor. Their love is strong and their willingness to forgive and try again something few would accomplish. This story is not a cozy romance. The sex is gritty. The language is hard. The men and women harder. If you are looking for tenderness, you will find it buried deeply in the heart of two people whose lives most would not live through. I could not put it down. A five star recommend from me.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
April 23, 2017
Cut Wide Open is incredible! It grabs you from the first word, which for me, as a reader, is an extremely rare thing. And once you start, you won't be able to put it down till you're done!
Abby McCarthy does an excellent job making you feel this deep connection to her characters from the start. I had tears and rapid heart beat in the first few chapters.
The sex scenes are indeed explicit, but they have such purpose that without them the story just wouldn't be as powerful as it is. I've read other books with hardcore sex scenes that feel like they were put there just to have something nasty in the story. But not here; even the worst of Charlie's experiences are written so powerfully, and make the book just that much greater!
I've read Abby's other books and loved them too. But Cut Wide Open is by far my favorite and I can't wait for the sequels!
Abby McCarthy does an excellent job making you feel this deep connection to her characters from the start. I had tears and rapid heart beat in the first few chapters.
The sex scenes are indeed explicit, but they have such purpose that without them the story just wouldn't be as powerful as it is. I've read other books with hardcore sex scenes that feel like they were put there just to have something nasty in the story. But not here; even the worst of Charlie's experiences are written so powerfully, and make the book just that much greater!
I've read Abby's other books and loved them too. But Cut Wide Open is by far my favorite and I can't wait for the sequels!
March 19, 2017
Cut Wide Open is my first Abby McCarthy read. This was a very dark read, and as much as I like my dark reads, I found myself putting my kindle down a few times because some parts were a bit much. This is a fair warning for those with triggers.
Charlie didn't have an easy life, growing up in the system with a family that really didn't care. Never feeling wanted until Gunner, her neighbor finally notices her.
Gunner had the life Charlie always wanted, a mom and a dad and lots of laughter. Until one day everything changed for Gunner.
Circumstances tear Charlie and Gunner apart and leaves Charlie is pregnant and all alone and Gunner a member of an MC.
I liked this book, and I would definitely want to read more from this author.
What I didn't care for was how the rape and torture of the heroine seemed to drag on through almost half the book. I love my dark reads, but this one really got to me, but all in all I liked it.
Abby McCarthy gives us a lot of action and some suspense and a whole lot of some hot scenes. Definitely worth the read.
April 17, 2017
wow what just happened ?
This book is very very intense has some disturbing issues that if you have issues on abuse I wouldn't touch it. If you dont mind that and get through the heart wrenching abuse and twist and turns this does turn out to be a good story and how one woman goes through soooooooo much since her childhood and has her silver lining.
I cant give this less than 5 stars had me gripped from page one.
This book is very very intense has some disturbing issues that if you have issues on abuse I wouldn't touch it. If you dont mind that and get through the heart wrenching abuse and twist and turns this does turn out to be a good story and how one woman goes through soooooooo much since her childhood and has her silver lining.
I cant give this less than 5 stars had me gripped from page one.
April 1, 2017
Damn
This was not what I thought it was going to be. It was darker evil hard to put down. I love this book it had a flair that worked with a true twist on an mc story. You felt something for mouse when she was going through hell. Gunner was a perfect anti hero it worked. A solid read lots of twists I hope she does a 2nd book.
This was not what I thought it was going to be. It was darker evil hard to put down. I love this book it had a flair that worked with a true twist on an mc story. You felt something for mouse when she was going through hell. Gunner was a perfect anti hero it worked. A solid read lots of twists I hope she does a 2nd book.
January 27, 2019
Awesome book
First time reader of this author. I enjoyed this story so much. It was a dark book but written well and kept me interested from the very beginning. Charlie suffered a lot but Gunner also had a hard time, together they will come out on the other side of the darkness.
First time reader of this author. I enjoyed this story so much. It was a dark book but written well and kept me interested from the very beginning. Charlie suffered a lot but Gunner also had a hard time, together they will come out on the other side of the darkness.
April 7, 2017
This book took me on a very dark and crazy ride. I have to say the strength, determination and live in this story was remarkable. Very well written and just a great story.
August 11, 2017
A Different MC book;
A very unexpected phenomenal book. I had just finished Current when I started this book. A different type of MC book. I became totally invested in these characters. I didn't want to put it down ; consequently, I read until 2:30 in the morning.
A very unexpected phenomenal book. I had just finished Current when I started this book. A different type of MC book. I became totally invested in these characters. I didn't want to put it down ; consequently, I read until 2:30 in the morning.
March 20, 2017
Cut Wide Open by Abby McCarthy is a Bleeding Scars MC novel.
This is a Dark Read and not for the faint of heart !!
Gunner Reed, member of the Bleeding Scars MC is searching for Charlie Morris, his mouse, who he lost years ago. As teenagers they had a romance. They known each other since childhood.
Charlie is shy and quiet.
At the age of 24 Charlie is a pole dancer to make ends for herself and her son.
Then she gets kidnapped by a really bad man, raped and drugged, beaten and abused.
It was difficult to reading about this. Sometimes it was too much and I had to put this book down.
But I couldn´t not know what happens with these characters.
Do they get a HEA?
And what about Ernesto? Can Charlie put her life back? What about her son?
So many questions and only one solution.
4,5 Stars and Thank you Abby McCarthy !
This is a Dark Read and not for the faint of heart !!
Gunner Reed, member of the Bleeding Scars MC is searching for Charlie Morris, his mouse, who he lost years ago. As teenagers they had a romance. They known each other since childhood.
Charlie is shy and quiet.
At the age of 24 Charlie is a pole dancer to make ends for herself and her son.
Then she gets kidnapped by a really bad man, raped and drugged, beaten and abused.
It was difficult to reading about this. Sometimes it was too much and I had to put this book down.
But I couldn´t not know what happens with these characters.
Do they get a HEA?
And what about Ernesto? Can Charlie put her life back? What about her son?
So many questions and only one solution.
4,5 Stars and Thank you Abby McCarthy !
August 12, 2017
Another captivating book by Abby McCarthy...
There are books that quietly sneak into your heart while reading and there are books that take a hold of your heart and move in and stay there, forever.
Cut Wide Open is that book.
Charlie and Gunner needed each other, both in a world in where love and support would be the answer to their prayers. But as luck would have it, it wouldn’t be in the cards. Life has been tough on these two – but they continue to move forward, they are strong characters who refuse to give up.
I have to be honest; this book is a tough read at times. I have often been unable to read/finish books that are on the darker side but as I read this book and the darker parts, they were needed to give me the perspective of the hell in which Charlie endures. It was necessary and needed.
The relationship of Gunner and Charlie is deep, meaning full and everlasting. This book will take you from sweetness, the sadness, to despair, to hell and back.
My favorite part of this book is the relationship between Gunner and Gun. Watching them together made my heart smile.
Take the leap, get CUT WIDE OPEN and allow Abby McCarthy to take your on a journey that will change your heart.
There are books that quietly sneak into your heart while reading and there are books that take a hold of your heart and move in and stay there, forever.
Cut Wide Open is that book.
Charlie and Gunner needed each other, both in a world in where love and support would be the answer to their prayers. But as luck would have it, it wouldn’t be in the cards. Life has been tough on these two – but they continue to move forward, they are strong characters who refuse to give up.
I have to be honest; this book is a tough read at times. I have often been unable to read/finish books that are on the darker side but as I read this book and the darker parts, they were needed to give me the perspective of the hell in which Charlie endures. It was necessary and needed.
The relationship of Gunner and Charlie is deep, meaning full and everlasting. This book will take you from sweetness, the sadness, to despair, to hell and back.
My favorite part of this book is the relationship between Gunner and Gun. Watching them together made my heart smile.
Take the leap, get CUT WIDE OPEN and allow Abby McCarthy to take your on a journey that will change your heart.
March 14, 2017
MC books with trigger warnings...? Hell! I'm in!!
This book is more than an MC book; it's also a second chance romance. Charlotte (Charli) lives with her foster parents across the road from Gunner. She notices him when she is just 8 years old, he is 10. For a couple of years she just watches him... Is drawn to him. When she is 16 she ends up pregnant with Gunners child. Shortly after Gunner joins the Hades Runners and loses contact with Charli. He then spends the next 8 years trying to locate her.
Charli is doing what she can to survive and provide for her son when she suddenly meets back up with Gunner. Unfortunately Enrico Santos, drug lord of Colombia has decided to make Charli his and takes her for his own. Charli is drugged, raped and badly beaten. Gunner then makes it his mission to find Charli and take back what is his.
This book is told both from a dual POV and second person. For the majority of the book, the story writing was good. The plot was good too but I felt poorly executed in places. When the MC were on a rescue mission battling Enrico's men it felt like something out of the 'A Team'; I don't think the author truly got to grips with the grit needed for MC battles. She just didn't capture the angst or the darkness for this genre. Whilst narrating Charli and Gunners story, the writing was good and flowed and was very addictive. I was drawn into this book from the very first page. My heart just bled at the real crappy life Charli endured. A couple of times I felt scenes were rushed. They lacked detail and feelings and felt a little disjointed. It's really hard to describe but I would say the author is probably more suited to angsty romances rather than the dark romance genre. As it is in the darker scenes when I felt the writing fell apart a little.
There are a few twists and turns and secrets get revealed. The plot was well thought out and keeps you guessing throughout.
Please take note of the trigger warnings if dark romance isn't your thing then don't read this book. It does end on a cliff hanger and I can only assume that book 2 will continue with Charli and Gunners story. There are plenty more secrets to come as Gunner sets off on a mission to find the truth!
***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
This book is more than an MC book; it's also a second chance romance. Charlotte (Charli) lives with her foster parents across the road from Gunner. She notices him when she is just 8 years old, he is 10. For a couple of years she just watches him... Is drawn to him. When she is 16 she ends up pregnant with Gunners child. Shortly after Gunner joins the Hades Runners and loses contact with Charli. He then spends the next 8 years trying to locate her.
Charli is doing what she can to survive and provide for her son when she suddenly meets back up with Gunner. Unfortunately Enrico Santos, drug lord of Colombia has decided to make Charli his and takes her for his own. Charli is drugged, raped and badly beaten. Gunner then makes it his mission to find Charli and take back what is his.
This book is told both from a dual POV and second person. For the majority of the book, the story writing was good. The plot was good too but I felt poorly executed in places. When the MC were on a rescue mission battling Enrico's men it felt like something out of the 'A Team'; I don't think the author truly got to grips with the grit needed for MC battles. She just didn't capture the angst or the darkness for this genre. Whilst narrating Charli and Gunners story, the writing was good and flowed and was very addictive. I was drawn into this book from the very first page. My heart just bled at the real crappy life Charli endured. A couple of times I felt scenes were rushed. They lacked detail and feelings and felt a little disjointed. It's really hard to describe but I would say the author is probably more suited to angsty romances rather than the dark romance genre. As it is in the darker scenes when I felt the writing fell apart a little.
There are a few twists and turns and secrets get revealed. The plot was well thought out and keeps you guessing throughout.
Please take note of the trigger warnings if dark romance isn't your thing then don't read this book. It does end on a cliff hanger and I can only assume that book 2 will continue with Charli and Gunners story. There are plenty more secrets to come as Gunner sets off on a mission to find the truth!
***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
March 24, 2017
Should have been a little longer, but a good read anyway.
March 20, 2017
Abby McCarthy is moving up in the ranks. She is a fairly new-to-me author, as I've only read one other book by her. But let me say this... from her last book to this new book, she has grown. She has stronger writing, and I thought her writing was wonderful in Tainted by Crazy. But I love nothing more than to see an author's writing get better from one book to the next even if I didn't like the story.
Cut Wide Open... I didn't like this story... I truly LOVED this story. I was a little scared going in; not because of the dark elements, but because I don't usually do MC. I usually can't relate or there's too much focus on the bikes. This is not the case with Cut Wide Open. In fact, the MC made the characters' bonds that much stronger.
Charlie and Gunner were dealt a shit hand. Their relationship builds slowly and they establish a trust with each other that they have never had with anyone else. This trust is one of the most important pieces of their short-lived relationship as life got in the way and decisions were made, and people were lost.
The hell that Charlie is put through is gut-wrenching. It wasn't always the easiest read. But it definitely was necessary to build up this story. There were a couple scenes that were a little rushed and a little "too good to be true" with the situations occurring, but nothing so severe that it took from enjoying the story.
The fight and trust that Gunner and Charlie have for each other drove this story. Gunner will stop at nothing for his family and the horror that Charlie went through developed her into a stronger person instead of a weak woman who could have easily hidden from life. These two were meant for each other, and Abby writes their love story perfectly! If you like hot sex, can handle some dark elements and are looking for a fast-paced action-packed story, this book is definitely for you!
The epilogue was great! I can't wait to read the rest of this story!! (PSA: This is not a cliffhanger, but it does set up the fact that there is a second book to come.)
Cut Wide Open... I didn't like this story... I truly LOVED this story. I was a little scared going in; not because of the dark elements, but because I don't usually do MC. I usually can't relate or there's too much focus on the bikes. This is not the case with Cut Wide Open. In fact, the MC made the characters' bonds that much stronger.
Charlie and Gunner were dealt a shit hand. Their relationship builds slowly and they establish a trust with each other that they have never had with anyone else. This trust is one of the most important pieces of their short-lived relationship as life got in the way and decisions were made, and people were lost.
The hell that Charlie is put through is gut-wrenching. It wasn't always the easiest read. But it definitely was necessary to build up this story. There were a couple scenes that were a little rushed and a little "too good to be true" with the situations occurring, but nothing so severe that it took from enjoying the story.
The fight and trust that Gunner and Charlie have for each other drove this story. Gunner will stop at nothing for his family and the horror that Charlie went through developed her into a stronger person instead of a weak woman who could have easily hidden from life. These two were meant for each other, and Abby writes their love story perfectly! If you like hot sex, can handle some dark elements and are looking for a fast-paced action-packed story, this book is definitely for you!
The epilogue was great! I can't wait to read the rest of this story!! (PSA: This is not a cliffhanger, but it does set up the fact that there is a second book to come.)
December 4, 2018
For being such a dark book and for a good portion of the book being about the MC getting abused this was actually a really good book. I started this book for a reading challenge and I'm finding I'm actually upset the series never continued.
There is a lot of triggers in this book so if you can't handle abuse, rape, or anything along those lines then this book is DEFINITELY not for you.
The story starts off with Charlie being very young. She lives across the street from Gunner in her foster home. The foster home where she's just a paycheck to them. For years she watches Gunner from the window of her house. Eventually he approaches her and from there they have chemistry. He takes her virginity at 16. At this point he's prospecting for a motorcycle club. He disappears on her. She finds out she's pregnant and her foster parents give her back to the system. Gunner tries finding her but he fails.
Years go by, and they run into one another. But Charlie is on the radar of a very bad man. He ends up abducting her and that's where the abuse I mentioned comes in. Gunner has to find her and there's your storyline.
Again, it was super dark. But I really enjoyed the story and am upset it wasn't completed. -.-
There is a lot of triggers in this book so if you can't handle abuse, rape, or anything along those lines then this book is DEFINITELY not for you.
The story starts off with Charlie being very young. She lives across the street from Gunner in her foster home. The foster home where she's just a paycheck to them. For years she watches Gunner from the window of her house. Eventually he approaches her and from there they have chemistry. He takes her virginity at 16. At this point he's prospecting for a motorcycle club. He disappears on her. She finds out she's pregnant and her foster parents give her back to the system. Gunner tries finding her but he fails.
Years go by, and they run into one another. But Charlie is on the radar of a very bad man. He ends up abducting her and that's where the abuse I mentioned comes in. Gunner has to find her and there's your storyline.
Again, it was super dark. But I really enjoyed the story and am upset it wasn't completed. -.-
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