What do you think?
Rate this book
Blank Canvas #2
By Her Touch
He Will Always Bear the Scars
Undercover cop Clay Navarro left the Sultans biker gang a changed man. Its ringleaders may be awaiting trial, but he wears the memory of every brutal act he was forced to commit tattooed across his skin. He doesn't have space in his messed-up life for anything gentle--not now, maybe not ever.
Dr. Georgette Hadley is drawn to the damaged stranger's pain, intimidated but intrigued by the warmth that lies beneath Clay's frightening exterior. But when the Sultans return looking for revenge, she finds herself drawn into the dirty underbelly of a life forged in violence...that not even her touch may be able to heal.
Blank Canvas Series:
Under Her Skin (Book 1)
By Her Touch (Book 2)
In His Hands (Book 3)
Praise for Under Her Skin:
"Passionate and heart-wrenching." --HelenKay Dimon, author of The Fixer
"A dark and emotional tale that will make your spine tingle as well as your heart." --Sarina Bowen, USA Today bestselling author of Bittersweet
"The perfect romance...a hint of danger, a whole lot of spice, and an HEA you believe in." --Anne Calhoun, award-winning author of Under the Surface
"The romance I've been craving--smart, edgy, brimming with heat and heart." --Cara McKenna, author ofAfter Hours
"
Undercover cop Clay Navarro left the Sultans biker gang a changed man. Its ringleaders may be awaiting trial, but he wears the memory of every brutal act he was forced to commit tattooed across his skin. He doesn't have space in his messed-up life for anything gentle--not now, maybe not ever.
Dr. Georgette Hadley is drawn to the damaged stranger's pain, intimidated but intrigued by the warmth that lies beneath Clay's frightening exterior. But when the Sultans return looking for revenge, she finds herself drawn into the dirty underbelly of a life forged in violence...that not even her touch may be able to heal.
Blank Canvas Series:
Under Her Skin (Book 1)
By Her Touch (Book 2)
In His Hands (Book 3)
Praise for Under Her Skin:
"Passionate and heart-wrenching." --HelenKay Dimon, author of The Fixer
"A dark and emotional tale that will make your spine tingle as well as your heart." --Sarina Bowen, USA Today bestselling author of Bittersweet
"The perfect romance...a hint of danger, a whole lot of spice, and an HEA you believe in." --Anne Calhoun, award-winning author of Under the Surface
"The romance I've been craving--smart, edgy, brimming with heat and heart." --Cara McKenna, author ofAfter Hours
"
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2017
138 people are currently reading
965 people want to read
About the author
Adriana Anders
26 books1,040 followersAdriana Anders is author of the Survival Instincts, Love at Last, and Blank Canvas series. Her debut, Under Her Skin, was a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2017 and double recipient of the HOLT Medallion award, and Loving the Secret Billionaire was a Romance Writers of America 2019 Rita® Award Finalist. Her books have been featured in Entertainment Weekly, Oprah Mag, Bustle, USA Today Happy Ever After, and Book Riot. Today, she resides with her husband and two small children on the coast of France, where she writes the gritty, emotional love stories of her heart.
Sign up for exclusive content, giveaways, and updates:
www.adrianaanders.com/newsletter
http://www.adrianaanders.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adrianaander...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdrianasBoudoir
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/adrianasbou...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adriana.anders
Sign up for exclusive content, giveaways, and updates:
www.adrianaanders.com/newsletter
http://www.adrianaanders.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adrianaander...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdrianasBoudoir
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/adrianasbou...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adriana.anders
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
February 13, 2021
4 Seeing Beyond What's In Front of You Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
I just have to say... This author was NOT a one-hit-wonder for me. Adriana Anders delivered an extremely strong second entry to her series Blank Canvas. Sometimes the second book in a series that starts out clear and strong can be just another entry with nothing outstanding about it. This was Not the case with By Her Touch.... and I am so very thrilled it wasn't.
Because Adriana Anders has a way of drawing you in from the start...she will set up a situation, grab you by the throat and then not let go till the very end...Oh, there will be soft times, very sexy times too... but she has captured your attention and you will hang on for the ride.
We have two people who are at a point where big decisions are in play.
Clay Navarro has been living a lie. For years he was a rabid gang member, part of the deadly Sultans. They were his brothers, his family and he lived their code...
He did it willingly...as an undercover cop with the ATF. Clay went all in to revenge the killing of his little sister by these animals and nothing would stop him... not even being tortured with tattoos and burns all over his body...Clay was going to bring this Club down and almost died doing it.
Now he is in limbo...He is no longer the person he lived all those years... the force and lawyers think he is supposed to snap back to being Agent Navarro... but the mind and PTSD doesn't work that way. He loses himself, time will slip away...and dreaming isn't dreaming... it is all nightmares.
Clay does have a focus, though. He needs to get rid of all the tattoos that were inflicted on him...the ones done by the Animal in the Club...It is going to be a painful process and he needs someone who truly knows what they are doing. He cannot take the stand and testify looking and acting like one of those monsters...
This brings him to Dr. Georgette Hadley, known as George to everyone. She is a highly skilled dermatologist who is known to do tattoo removal. Dr. George understands wanting to remove the marking from a past... a past one would want to forget.
She was someone like that when she met her husband all those years ago. She met him and he saw what she could be... he guided her, gave her the push to discover her way and together, they were everything she wanted...But life decided she wasn't going to get everything she wanted...
Instead, her husband got cancer and died leaving her lost...She took that feeling and pushed down everything... she stayed focused on becoming an excellent Dr. ... managing her money and staying in touch with her in-laws...
And now after all these years, she thinks she is about to achieve what she had wanted with her husband...It will only be a matter of days and then the time will be here...
It is on a hot muggy day with the air conditioner out and Dr. George alone at the office when Clay crosses her doorstep. He has on dark glasses and long sleeves which is suspicious with this weather. George is hesitant to have him stay in the office with her alone...but there is something about the way he is so needing her help...that her instincts tell her she will be safe with him even though his manner and looks should tell her no...
Clay needs this woman... he needs her skills and then as this story progresses...he needs her to breathe... and just feel calm...
George is needing Clay as well...There is something about him which calls to her...this huge, muscular man... this rough man who at moments seems so gentle with her...
But it is not the gentle that calls to her at all... it is the rough... the not treating her as if she is fragile and would break ... this rough is something new and wonderful for her...
This story has all sorts of layers mixed with a plot that has the standard suspense elements. There are things that you might figure out before it is time...but I didn't have any issues with it...I was happy to read this straight through and learn how two people on the surface would seem so different but actually were just right for each other.
These tales Anders writes are not always the easiest to read if you have possible triggers with abuse or violence. If, though, you are someone who enjoys an arc of growth, discovery, and romance with a generous plot of suspense, then this is worth your time.
I am happy to know there will be another entry to this series. In his Hands (Blank Canvas, #3) will be coming August 1, 2017.
Under Her Skin (Blank Canvas, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
By Her Touch (Blank Canvas, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
In His Hands (Blank Canvas, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Happened to be very impressed with Under Her Skin....
Took me a bit, but I am now fully committed to feel...
BY HER TOUCH...Staring Now
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
January 14, 2017
He has a need to release the Mask...his body has been wearing...
To remove the tattoos which damaged more than his skin...
She has the means to heal him...
She can remove the markings ...
But will she also remove his pain...
This is the second entry to a very unique series...
Take the journey... you will not get lost along the way...
By Her Touch - April 4, 2017
A gifted copy was provided by the author/publisher for an honest review. For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
I just have to say... This author was NOT a one-hit-wonder for me. Adriana Anders delivered an extremely strong second entry to her series Blank Canvas. Sometimes the second book in a series that starts out clear and strong can be just another entry with nothing outstanding about it. This was Not the case with By Her Touch.... and I am so very thrilled it wasn't.
Because Adriana Anders has a way of drawing you in from the start...she will set up a situation, grab you by the throat and then not let go till the very end...Oh, there will be soft times, very sexy times too... but she has captured your attention and you will hang on for the ride.
We have two people who are at a point where big decisions are in play.
Clay Navarro has been living a lie. For years he was a rabid gang member, part of the deadly Sultans. They were his brothers, his family and he lived their code...
He did it willingly...as an undercover cop with the ATF. Clay went all in to revenge the killing of his little sister by these animals and nothing would stop him... not even being tortured with tattoos and burns all over his body...Clay was going to bring this Club down and almost died doing it.
Now he is in limbo...He is no longer the person he lived all those years... the force and lawyers think he is supposed to snap back to being Agent Navarro... but the mind and PTSD doesn't work that way. He loses himself, time will slip away...and dreaming isn't dreaming... it is all nightmares.
Clay does have a focus, though. He needs to get rid of all the tattoos that were inflicted on him...the ones done by the Animal in the Club...It is going to be a painful process and he needs someone who truly knows what they are doing. He cannot take the stand and testify looking and acting like one of those monsters...
This brings him to Dr. Georgette Hadley, known as George to everyone. She is a highly skilled dermatologist who is known to do tattoo removal. Dr. George understands wanting to remove the marking from a past... a past one would want to forget.
She was someone like that when she met her husband all those years ago. She met him and he saw what she could be... he guided her, gave her the push to discover her way and together, they were everything she wanted...But life decided she wasn't going to get everything she wanted...
Instead, her husband got cancer and died leaving her lost...She took that feeling and pushed down everything... she stayed focused on becoming an excellent Dr. ... managing her money and staying in touch with her in-laws...
And now after all these years, she thinks she is about to achieve what she had wanted with her husband...It will only be a matter of days and then the time will be here...
It is on a hot muggy day with the air conditioner out and Dr. George alone at the office when Clay crosses her doorstep. He has on dark glasses and long sleeves which is suspicious with this weather. George is hesitant to have him stay in the office with her alone...but there is something about the way he is so needing her help...that her instincts tell her she will be safe with him even though his manner and looks should tell her no...
Clay needs this woman... he needs her skills and then as this story progresses...he needs her to breathe... and just feel calm...
George is needing Clay as well...There is something about him which calls to her...this huge, muscular man... this rough man who at moments seems so gentle with her...
But it is not the gentle that calls to her at all... it is the rough... the not treating her as if she is fragile and would break ... this rough is something new and wonderful for her...
This story has all sorts of layers mixed with a plot that has the standard suspense elements. There are things that you might figure out before it is time...but I didn't have any issues with it...I was happy to read this straight through and learn how two people on the surface would seem so different but actually were just right for each other.
These tales Anders writes are not always the easiest to read if you have possible triggers with abuse or violence. If, though, you are someone who enjoys an arc of growth, discovery, and romance with a generous plot of suspense, then this is worth your time.
I am happy to know there will be another entry to this series. In his Hands (Blank Canvas, #3) will be coming August 1, 2017.
Under Her Skin (Blank Canvas, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
By Her Touch (Blank Canvas, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
In His Hands (Blank Canvas, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Happened to be very impressed with Under Her Skin....
Took me a bit, but I am now fully committed to feel...
BY HER TOUCH...Staring Now
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
January 14, 2017
He has a need to release the Mask...his body has been wearing...
To remove the tattoos which damaged more than his skin...
She has the means to heal him...
She can remove the markings ...
But will she also remove his pain...
This is the second entry to a very unique series...
Take the journey... you will not get lost along the way...
By Her Touch - April 4, 2017
A gifted copy was provided by the author/publisher for an honest review. For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
March 19, 2017
Four and a half
I think we all carry scars of one sort or another. For some they are invisible , dark and unseen. For others they are present, bright as day and undeniable . Undercover agent Clay carries both, the ink and scars of his life so far and the ones that line his soul. Now hiding out he prepares for that one final push that will see those who have hurt so many finally getting what they deserve.
George has such a need to help others but no one can help ease her sadness. Existing yes but not truly living for the past ten years and yet all that can change in a heartbeat. Her newest patient needs her skills but what if it's really her, just as she is that he really needs? For George the intense desire to touch him is a visceral thing but forbidden. Yet something has undoubtedly woken up inside her but there's a darkness not just inside Clay but following him and their time is running out!
This follow up to Under her Skin is just as harrowing and dark at times and yet there's a sense of redemption permeating it. It felt good to really get to know what makes George tick and I especially enjoy the lighter moments with curmudgeonly characters not to mention those who like to meddle as it made the life portrayed in this small town feel realistic. Yet I have to point out it's a very emotional romance with dark undertones and there are moments that are chilling as its so hard not to empathise with these characters. I read this fully understanding that Clay and George are on a journey of sorts but they are not alone , no they both have to face their past.
This has lots of heat as the couple connect on every level. I loved how the story developed and sincerely hope that Jessie who has played a part in both books will find love too. So my final thoughts are this author has written a very gritty , emotional story that was incredibly hard to put down .
This is a voluntary take on a copy I received from Netgalley and my thoughts are my honest opinion
I think we all carry scars of one sort or another. For some they are invisible , dark and unseen. For others they are present, bright as day and undeniable . Undercover agent Clay carries both, the ink and scars of his life so far and the ones that line his soul. Now hiding out he prepares for that one final push that will see those who have hurt so many finally getting what they deserve.
George has such a need to help others but no one can help ease her sadness. Existing yes but not truly living for the past ten years and yet all that can change in a heartbeat. Her newest patient needs her skills but what if it's really her, just as she is that he really needs? For George the intense desire to touch him is a visceral thing but forbidden. Yet something has undoubtedly woken up inside her but there's a darkness not just inside Clay but following him and their time is running out!
This follow up to Under her Skin is just as harrowing and dark at times and yet there's a sense of redemption permeating it. It felt good to really get to know what makes George tick and I especially enjoy the lighter moments with curmudgeonly characters not to mention those who like to meddle as it made the life portrayed in this small town feel realistic. Yet I have to point out it's a very emotional romance with dark undertones and there are moments that are chilling as its so hard not to empathise with these characters. I read this fully understanding that Clay and George are on a journey of sorts but they are not alone , no they both have to face their past.
This has lots of heat as the couple connect on every level. I loved how the story developed and sincerely hope that Jessie who has played a part in both books will find love too. So my final thoughts are this author has written a very gritty , emotional story that was incredibly hard to put down .
This is a voluntary take on a copy I received from Netgalley and my thoughts are my honest opinion
April 4, 2017
By Her Touch is the second book in the series, however, it can be read as a standalone. I have read book 1 and since it's based on a small town, you do see the characters from that book into this one but you will not be confused if you skip it.
However, I would recommend reading both books, just because I really like this authors style and enjoyed both stories. They may have some triggers for readers. Main characters, as well as some of the side characters, have lived through abuse and real life tragedies.
Our main characters in By Her Touch have both seen their own heartbreak and violence. Dr. Georgette Hadley is a dermatologist but also specializes in removing tattoo's. We got to see a glimpse of her in the first book when Uma sought her out to remove tattoos that were forced on her by her abusive ex.
George has known tragedy in her life as well. Her husband died of cancer 10 years prior and she has lived a pretty solitaire existence since. She meets our hero, special agent Clay Navarro when he seeks her out to remove tattoos forced on him while he was undercover.
Clay went undercover to become a Sultan MC in hopes to take down the men who killed his little sister. When the club finds out Clay is a cop, they tattoo his eye lids and knuckles branding him as a cop and a dead man. He barely makes it out alive and now he is in hiding until he can testify. Clay seeks George out to get the tattoos removed. Like a lot of cops coming out of undercover work, he's struggling with the things he did while undercover and becoming the cop he once was.
This is a beautiful series by Adriana Anders. I always want to see people overcome tragedy in their lives and have that happy ever after they so deserve. It's one of the things I'm enjoying about this series. She's providing real life characters and situations in these books and I love how the author is taking us step by step in these peoples lives, from hopelessness to awareness to happiness.
Arc provided by:
However, I would recommend reading both books, just because I really like this authors style and enjoyed both stories. They may have some triggers for readers. Main characters, as well as some of the side characters, have lived through abuse and real life tragedies.
Our main characters in By Her Touch have both seen their own heartbreak and violence. Dr. Georgette Hadley is a dermatologist but also specializes in removing tattoo's. We got to see a glimpse of her in the first book when Uma sought her out to remove tattoos that were forced on her by her abusive ex.
George has known tragedy in her life as well. Her husband died of cancer 10 years prior and she has lived a pretty solitaire existence since. She meets our hero, special agent Clay Navarro when he seeks her out to remove tattoos forced on him while he was undercover.
Clay went undercover to become a Sultan MC in hopes to take down the men who killed his little sister. When the club finds out Clay is a cop, they tattoo his eye lids and knuckles branding him as a cop and a dead man. He barely makes it out alive and now he is in hiding until he can testify. Clay seeks George out to get the tattoos removed. Like a lot of cops coming out of undercover work, he's struggling with the things he did while undercover and becoming the cop he once was.
This is a beautiful series by Adriana Anders. I always want to see people overcome tragedy in their lives and have that happy ever after they so deserve. It's one of the things I'm enjoying about this series. She's providing real life characters and situations in these books and I love how the author is taking us step by step in these peoples lives, from hopelessness to awareness to happiness.
Arc provided by:
August 18, 2021
4,5 stars
I like this one so much. If you know the author and know how well she writes damaged heroes, you will not be disappointed. Their chemistry was off the charts (with a liiiittle bit of kink), the romance was a slow burning sweetness, and even though some parts felt a bit too long, I still enjoyed it very much.
I like this one so much. If you know the author and know how well she writes damaged heroes, you will not be disappointed. Their chemistry was off the charts (with a liiiittle bit of kink), the romance was a slow burning sweetness, and even though some parts felt a bit too long, I still enjoyed it very much.
April 19, 2017
An emotional erotic story that digs in deep and doesn't let go.
By Her Touch by Adriana Anders is book two in her Blank Canvas series and in my opinion better written than book one. Just as emotionally erotic, I really felt Anders goes above and beyond with her in-depth characterization of both hero and heroine, the joint background reveals, and the verbalization of their pain, and their individual issues with intimacy. The hint of mystery and suspense only adds to the appeal. A sure fire winner.
By Her Touch by Adriana Anders is book two in her Blank Canvas series and in my opinion better written than book one. Just as emotionally erotic, I really felt Anders goes above and beyond with her in-depth characterization of both hero and heroine, the joint background reveals, and the verbalization of their pain, and their individual issues with intimacy. The hint of mystery and suspense only adds to the appeal. A sure fire winner.
August 13, 2017
By Her Touch (Blank Canvas #2) by Adriana Anders
Author: Adriana Anders
Title: By Her Touch
Series: Blank Canvas
Cover Rating:
Book Rating:
Buy This Book:
Undercover cop Clay Navarro left the Sultans biker gang a changed man. Its ringleaders may be awaiting trial, but he wears the memory of every brutal act he was forced to commit tattooed across his skin.
He doesn't have space in his messed-up life for anything gentle--not now, maybe not ever. Dr. Georgette Hadley is drawn to the damaged stranger's pain, intimidated but intrigued by the warmth that lies beneath Clay's frightening exterior.
But when the Sultans return looking for revenge, she finds herself drawn into the dirty underbelly of a life forged in violence...that not even her touch may be able to heal.
By Her Touch was a decent read but I just couldn't seem to invest in the plot or the cast, it had potential however the situation in which Clay and Hadley meet just felt odd and disjointed to me. I couldn't really engage in their relationship or the reasons behind them nor the on off push pull between them.
I liked them as characters but the mixture of the three didn't quite mesh as well as I'd hoped. I don't know if this is because I haven't read the first book and I'm missing something but I'll take responsibility for the low rating this time around.
Until next time book lovers...
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Save
Author: Adriana Anders
Title: By Her Touch
Series: Blank Canvas
Cover Rating:
Book Rating:
Buy This Book:
Undercover cop Clay Navarro left the Sultans biker gang a changed man. Its ringleaders may be awaiting trial, but he wears the memory of every brutal act he was forced to commit tattooed across his skin.
He doesn't have space in his messed-up life for anything gentle--not now, maybe not ever. Dr. Georgette Hadley is drawn to the damaged stranger's pain, intimidated but intrigued by the warmth that lies beneath Clay's frightening exterior.
But when the Sultans return looking for revenge, she finds herself drawn into the dirty underbelly of a life forged in violence...that not even her touch may be able to heal.
By Her Touch was a decent read but I just couldn't seem to invest in the plot or the cast, it had potential however the situation in which Clay and Hadley meet just felt odd and disjointed to me. I couldn't really engage in their relationship or the reasons behind them nor the on off push pull between them.
I liked them as characters but the mixture of the three didn't quite mesh as well as I'd hoped. I don't know if this is because I haven't read the first book and I'm missing something but I'll take responsibility for the low rating this time around.
Until next time book lovers...
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Save
March 26, 2019
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
By Her Touch was such a riveting and emotionally driven romance that really tugs at the reader’s emotions here. After reading book one, I was very curious about the side character, our skin healer “George Hadley” and I am so happy that we got her book in this beloved story and I thought that this book was really well played and the narrator did a decent job, not my favorite narration by any stretch of the imagination, but a decent solid work here.
Our story begins with our hero, Clay Navarro, who after seeing his baby sister end up being killed by a motorcycle club, he wants to bring this club down and especially those involved in her death. So Clay goes undercover along with his close friend into the MC to bring down the club and Clay found himself torn at times when he found a brotherhood in this club but also knew of members that were cruel and masochistic and needed to be brought down. But they were betrayed on the night of the raid, and somehow they knew that Clay was one of the operative and he was shot in the back and it took months to recover. But even after those gun shots, they were the worst of the wounds that he received.
During his time at the club, he had to be tattoed against his will and they only serve as a painful reminder of the horrors he was forced to witness and participate in, so he could bring the club down. Now he is on the run, there is a traitor in the government agency, a friend has been murdered who was in hiding and so now he has changed his name and come to a small town where a skin repairing facility is to help him get rid of the tattoos that haunt him. George Hadley, is a skin recovery Doctor, and a widow. She is busy with her patients, getting ready to have a baby with her late husband's sperm who died of cancer and she craves being a mother. But then when she meets Clay, there is a spark of connection between them, but Clay doesn't want to put George in danger no matter the love that is slowly developing between them
By Her Touch was such a emotionally wrought romance and Iadored this book quite a bit. I really liked this slow burn story, I really liked to see Clay and George come together and seeing them overcome the dangers surrounding them. It is very interesting, to see them help each other. Clay is suffering from severe PTSD, and George knows that he needs help, but she also knows that he is hiding from something. Clay's plan was just to get his markings removed before he goes to trial while trying to keep himself hidden from the MC.
There is a sensuality that builds between these two that sucks the reader into the story with such a magnetism. Its not only a stunning love story, but its also story of redemption and healing. We see the trauma that Clay has suffered, we do get a few flashbacks in the beginning of the story of his mission in going undercover with the MC and see why he is suffering so much. But then we see him find what he needs in this small town with a female doctor that is compassionate and finding his place among the town.
Overall I found By Her Touch to be a beatifully crafted romance that mixes in a delving into suspense, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry.....EXHILIRATING!
By Her Touch was such a riveting and emotionally driven romance that really tugs at the reader’s emotions here. After reading book one, I was very curious about the side character, our skin healer “George Hadley” and I am so happy that we got her book in this beloved story and I thought that this book was really well played and the narrator did a decent job, not my favorite narration by any stretch of the imagination, but a decent solid work here.
Our story begins with our hero, Clay Navarro, who after seeing his baby sister end up being killed by a motorcycle club, he wants to bring this club down and especially those involved in her death. So Clay goes undercover along with his close friend into the MC to bring down the club and Clay found himself torn at times when he found a brotherhood in this club but also knew of members that were cruel and masochistic and needed to be brought down. But they were betrayed on the night of the raid, and somehow they knew that Clay was one of the operative and he was shot in the back and it took months to recover. But even after those gun shots, they were the worst of the wounds that he received.
During his time at the club, he had to be tattoed against his will and they only serve as a painful reminder of the horrors he was forced to witness and participate in, so he could bring the club down. Now he is on the run, there is a traitor in the government agency, a friend has been murdered who was in hiding and so now he has changed his name and come to a small town where a skin repairing facility is to help him get rid of the tattoos that haunt him. George Hadley, is a skin recovery Doctor, and a widow. She is busy with her patients, getting ready to have a baby with her late husband's sperm who died of cancer and she craves being a mother. But then when she meets Clay, there is a spark of connection between them, but Clay doesn't want to put George in danger no matter the love that is slowly developing between them
By Her Touch was such a emotionally wrought romance and Iadored this book quite a bit. I really liked this slow burn story, I really liked to see Clay and George come together and seeing them overcome the dangers surrounding them. It is very interesting, to see them help each other. Clay is suffering from severe PTSD, and George knows that he needs help, but she also knows that he is hiding from something. Clay's plan was just to get his markings removed before he goes to trial while trying to keep himself hidden from the MC.
There is a sensuality that builds between these two that sucks the reader into the story with such a magnetism. Its not only a stunning love story, but its also story of redemption and healing. We see the trauma that Clay has suffered, we do get a few flashbacks in the beginning of the story of his mission in going undercover with the MC and see why he is suffering so much. But then we see him find what he needs in this small town with a female doctor that is compassionate and finding his place among the town.
Overall I found By Her Touch to be a beatifully crafted romance that mixes in a delving into suspense, intrigue, and sizzling chemistry.....EXHILIRATING!
February 5, 2017
Clay Navarro is a man living on borrowed time. His time as an undercover cop in the Sultans biker gang left him covered head to toe with tattoos and a plethora of scars that can be seen inside and out. Although most of the gang has been arrested and are awaiting trial, a few members escaped capture and have vowed to hunt Clay to the ends of the earth. To stay alive and make it to trial, Clay leaves town. In an attempt to clean up his tattooed visage, Clay hires Dr. Georgette “George” Hadley to work her magic at tattoo removal. George is having a hard time keeping her hands to herself. Drawn to her new patient, she sees something in him worth healing and ultimately loving. However, when the Sultans trace Clay to George’s doorstep, all bets are off.
Verdict: So -- I am in minor love with this series. No wait, let me take that back, there is nothing minor about the way I feel about this series. Since this review is so far in advance, I absolutely refuse to give away the plot and will not disclose any of the secrets in between. But I will say this; Anders has a way of writing these absolutely gorgeously flawed main characters that will burrow their way into your heart right from the get go. You can’t help but root for them as they find the path to redemption and peace. Although these books are not for the faint at heart and touch on some seriously scary issues; they are definitely worth the heartache. I cannot wait for the third book to come out.
*Thank you Edelweiss and the publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Verdict: So -- I am in minor love with this series. No wait, let me take that back, there is nothing minor about the way I feel about this series. Since this review is so far in advance, I absolutely refuse to give away the plot and will not disclose any of the secrets in between. But I will say this; Anders has a way of writing these absolutely gorgeously flawed main characters that will burrow their way into your heart right from the get go. You can’t help but root for them as they find the path to redemption and peace. Although these books are not for the faint at heart and touch on some seriously scary issues; they are definitely worth the heartache. I cannot wait for the third book to come out.
*Thank you Edelweiss and the publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
April 1, 2017
4.5 Stars
'By Her Touch' by Adriana Anders is book Two in the "Blank Canvas" series. This is the story of Clay Navarro and Dr. Georgette Hadley 'George'. Clay barley made it out of the Sultans biker gang when he was an undercover cop. Part of being in that gang and also being tortured was to be forced to take a tattoo. Clay had come to George to get the really bad ones taken off. Clay finds George very attractive, sweet and total different than what he has been used to. George knows to that Clay is different and can't help but be attracted to him. But his body tells of allot of hard times in his life. George just wants to help heal him but will Clay let her. Clay has more scars on the inside but can George heal those too? Will Clay even let her?
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection*
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
'By Her Touch' by Adriana Anders is book Two in the "Blank Canvas" series. This is the story of Clay Navarro and Dr. Georgette Hadley 'George'. Clay barley made it out of the Sultans biker gang when he was an undercover cop. Part of being in that gang and also being tortured was to be forced to take a tattoo. Clay had come to George to get the really bad ones taken off. Clay finds George very attractive, sweet and total different than what he has been used to. George knows to that Clay is different and can't help but be attracted to him. But his body tells of allot of hard times in his life. George just wants to help heal him but will Clay let her. Clay has more scars on the inside but can George heal those too? Will Clay even let her?
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection*
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
June 25, 2017
Clay Navarro is waiting for the trial to begin he is the star witness after being undercover with the Sultan MC as an agent for the ATF it is touch and go. He is now a wanted man, scarred with tats that are another death sentence. He falls off the grid completely. Picks Blackwood Virginia to get rid of his tats and bumps into one Dr. Georgette Hadley. George Hadley has been widowed for ten years. Time is running out for her to use the sperm of her deceased husband to get pregnant. She still has strong ties with her in-laws so she's torn on that one.
There were also times where the time frame just seemed skewered. Our heroine states that she has none the Hero for a week. But by my calculation it was much, much longer. Then there was an appointment which was taking place on the Wednesday no date mentioned so technically it would imply the coming week but it was mentioned that it is weeks later. I like the MC in the book they have everything good strong characters need but the lack of interaction ruined it for me.
Her libido was in hibernation until Clay Navarro came in to town to get his tattoos removed. They have mutual attraction but it takes them ages to act on it. And of course George gets Jessie to stick her nose into things that shouldn't.
This like the other is a slow cooker romance but here I liked the characters more than in the first book but still there was a lot of repetitiveness and slightly predictable in places. Now I don't necessarily need sex to make a book stand out but I was literally begging for it to happen here. When they finally did get to doing the nasty I skimmed for whatever reason my limit was hit.
Ms. Anders and I are not a match made in heaven. It is no fault but my own. This book heck this series has received a ton of positive reviews so in the grand scheme of well everything take mine with a pinch of salt. For those of you who follow my reviews you know I try to finish a book but lately? Well it's been hard to scrape the energy together to finish a book and to be honest I am quite embarrassed by it. I do not want to be one of those reviewers you know?
Review can also be found @http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
March 4, 2018
This is another of my blogger shame books that fell through the cracks last year, but I was happy to find it in audio for my latest road trip. I really liked the first book, and I was glad to see that the Blank Canvas series is staying in small town Virginia with our philanthropic dermatologist and her tattooed and traumatized patients.
In By Her Touch, our heroine is the doctor herself - Georgette "George" Hadley. George has her own sad tale as a young widow yearning for a child and acting as part-time caretaker for her former in-laws. But she doesn't let that stop her from being a caring and productive member of her small town. She has a particular soft spot for people who want tattoos removed due to a troubled history or some form of abuse, and she often takes those cases on pro bono. I liked George. Her character is kinda sad and she seems to be going through a crisis period, and I got drawn in to her plight and story quite easily. She was definitely a sympathetic heroine.
Clay Navarro has arrived in Virginia in hiding and needing the doctor's help. After going undercover with a violent motorcycle gang, Clay barely survived and was left scarred, both physically and mentally. Clay is constantly looking over his shoulder and wondering who he can trust, but he also feels an undeniable pull toward our good doctor. Unfortunately, Clay's multitude of issues includes low self worth. He doesn't feel worthy of the doctor or happiness, and he struggles with that throughout the book. I felt really bad for Clay's character and the wounds he suffered during his undercover assignment. You could tell that he was a good guy, but it took some work to make him believe that again.
This was not an instalove relationship. Clay and George started out with a doctor/patient relationship and, though the attraction was there, neither was quick to act on it. Then when things were getting a little more friendly between the two, their issues put a wall up between them. But I liked the slow building romance as our couple were on friendly terms before things progressed to a more intimate nature.
Of course, the entire time our relationship is building, danger is coming closer. Clay still has went to trial for the work he did as an undercover agent, and he is in hiding from the outlaw gang. While they are actively hunting him, Clay has to worry that he will bring danger into the small town and those he has come to care about. This darker element gave the story an edge that you didn't escape while reading and it almost felt like the reader was looking over their shoulder right along with our hero.
I recommend this series to anyone who likes characters who are a little broken or have issues that need to be addressed before a relationship can blossom.
March 27, 2017
4 Stars - 3 Flames
I'm not even sure how to begin this review. I guess I'll start by mentioning that, although it's not a major theme in this story, there are some flashbacks that are dark. Not in a disturbing way to warrant a disclaimer, just...emotionally hard to take some times. Especially once you start to really like the character.
Much like the first book in this series, the story revolves around unwanted tattoos. Ink that was forced or manipulated on to the persons skin. Clay is an undercover cop who had to go in deep with the Sultans MC. So deep that he pretty much lost himself. Who is was as a man no longer made sense to him. And the ink on his body proved it. He'd truly become one of them. But now that his cover has been blown and the leader of the club behind bars, he's on the run until the court date where he needs to testify. While "hiding out", he needs to remove his tattoos. And where do you think he ends up? That's right. Right in to hands of Georgette Hadley.
I think we all knew from the first book that there was a past that George was dealing with. I mean, she DID know first hand how the removal of tattoos felt. In this book, we learn why. We also get to see just how perfect and nice she really is. Ok, ok. Yes, she had a little bit of a bad side at one time, but that's all changed now. And it takes her loving touch to bring out the best in Clay.
There were times in this book that I lost interest. Not to the point that would have stopped reading it, just to the point where I was getting a little restless with what was to come. But once I got to "the good stuff", I was all in again. The anticipation between Clay and George is so sweet that my heart literally ached for them. His hard exterior in contrast to her soft and loving self made for a perfect couple. He truly is a hero. Can't wait to see who's next...
*I received this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
I'm not even sure how to begin this review. I guess I'll start by mentioning that, although it's not a major theme in this story, there are some flashbacks that are dark. Not in a disturbing way to warrant a disclaimer, just...emotionally hard to take some times. Especially once you start to really like the character.
Much like the first book in this series, the story revolves around unwanted tattoos. Ink that was forced or manipulated on to the persons skin. Clay is an undercover cop who had to go in deep with the Sultans MC. So deep that he pretty much lost himself. Who is was as a man no longer made sense to him. And the ink on his body proved it. He'd truly become one of them. But now that his cover has been blown and the leader of the club behind bars, he's on the run until the court date where he needs to testify. While "hiding out", he needs to remove his tattoos. And where do you think he ends up? That's right. Right in to hands of Georgette Hadley.
I think we all knew from the first book that there was a past that George was dealing with. I mean, she DID know first hand how the removal of tattoos felt. In this book, we learn why. We also get to see just how perfect and nice she really is. Ok, ok. Yes, she had a little bit of a bad side at one time, but that's all changed now. And it takes her loving touch to bring out the best in Clay.
There were times in this book that I lost interest. Not to the point that would have stopped reading it, just to the point where I was getting a little restless with what was to come. But once I got to "the good stuff", I was all in again. The anticipation between Clay and George is so sweet that my heart literally ached for them. His hard exterior in contrast to her soft and loving self made for a perfect couple. He truly is a hero. Can't wait to see who's next...
*I received this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 25, 2017
Much of Clay Navarro’s story is written on his tattooed and scarred body. As undercover ATF agent in a violent criminal biker gang, he has seen and done things that haunt his waking and sleeping memory. Hiding out in a small, rural town while waiting to testify against the gang and recovering from wounds sustained during their takedown, Clay meets Dr. Georgette Hadley, a dermatologist who removes tattoos. Forced on him by a brutally evil Sultans’ member, Clay has some tattoos he is desperate to be rid of as they identify his undercover status as well as the gang badges. In a way, the removal of these inked emblems is a metaphor for getting his life back. As he endures the pain under Georgette’s skilled and compassionate hands, they both are intensely drawn to one another when they are seemingly opposites. Clay’s undercover life became a part of his psyche almost as indelibly as the ink on his skin. His reason for going in with this particular gang was personal as well as professional which adds an even darker dimension.
Georgette has been a widow for ten years having lost her husband to cancer while still quite young. Her own emotional scars from that trauma, and bad decisions in her teen years, have led Georgette to savor the quiet, safe life of her rural home; but is she really living or just surviving? Clay’s obviously violent past written on his body should scare her, but their souls seem to recognize each other, so she takes a risk to be with a man who may be too damaged to have a normal life. Not all of the biker gang members were caught; some of the ones left are out for revenge on Clay as someone blew his cover.
This story is very intense in all aspects including the romance, violence, and emotional baggage of both Clay and Georgette. I was very drawn into each of their stories and hard fought for lives. It’s much more than just a good girl falls for an undercover bad boy, tattooed alpha male trope. While ostensibly a romance, this tale is a reminder that people from all levels of social strata make bad and good choices, but ultimately what defines and sometimes saves them is how they overcome tough odds to be better than their circumstances. Love gives this couple a second chance at living instead of just existing; they have to ability heal one another in a profound way despite their individual losses and the darkness in the world. Adriana Anders has a fine hand at drawing out a reader’s emotions both the sensual and deeply moved kind. This story is one of those fasten your seat belts kind of ride, but it’s a journey well worth undertaking.
Georgette has been a widow for ten years having lost her husband to cancer while still quite young. Her own emotional scars from that trauma, and bad decisions in her teen years, have led Georgette to savor the quiet, safe life of her rural home; but is she really living or just surviving? Clay’s obviously violent past written on his body should scare her, but their souls seem to recognize each other, so she takes a risk to be with a man who may be too damaged to have a normal life. Not all of the biker gang members were caught; some of the ones left are out for revenge on Clay as someone blew his cover.
This story is very intense in all aspects including the romance, violence, and emotional baggage of both Clay and Georgette. I was very drawn into each of their stories and hard fought for lives. It’s much more than just a good girl falls for an undercover bad boy, tattooed alpha male trope. While ostensibly a romance, this tale is a reminder that people from all levels of social strata make bad and good choices, but ultimately what defines and sometimes saves them is how they overcome tough odds to be better than their circumstances. Love gives this couple a second chance at living instead of just existing; they have to ability heal one another in a profound way despite their individual losses and the darkness in the world. Adriana Anders has a fine hand at drawing out a reader’s emotions both the sensual and deeply moved kind. This story is one of those fasten your seat belts kind of ride, but it’s a journey well worth undertaking.
March 29, 2022
Quel plaisir de se replonger dans la saga Encré dans ta peau d'Adriana Anders. Le tatouage sera de nouveau au coeur de cette intrigue et les personnages n'ont pas fini de nous faire vivre de belles émotions. Les blessures sont profondes, la confiance bafouée et la reconstruction sera très longue.
j'ai passé un très bon moment de lecture en compagnie de personnages intéressants qui nous permettront de plonger dans des thématiques fortes et émouvantes. La perte, la souffrance, la reconstruction, la confiance et l'amitié seront au coeur même de cette romance addictive.
Avis complet: https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
j'ai passé un très bon moment de lecture en compagnie de personnages intéressants qui nous permettront de plonger dans des thématiques fortes et émouvantes. La perte, la souffrance, la reconstruction, la confiance et l'amitié seront au coeur même de cette romance addictive.
Avis complet: https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
May 10, 2021
When it comes to pulling one's heart strings, Ms. Anders succeeds with this follow up in the Blank Canvas series. This book can be read as a standalone. Reading the first one will give a bit of flavour of the secondary characters and the ambiance of this small town community.
In this second book, the tie in is with unwanted tattoos. In this one, Clay Navarro shows up at Dr. Georgette Hadley's office for help. Placed in a dire situation, Clay has no option but to go off the grid. This includes finding a doctor who can remove tattoos forced upon him during an undercover operation gone sideways. This story starts out a little slow and quickly picks up.
I loved the characters. Ms. Anders creates memorable characters with deep layers. Clay is a complicated man who does not expect to find a woman at the lowest point of his life. Georgette comes across as a soft touch at first. Watching her stand up to others and her story unfold made the story more captivating. Clay and Georgette's slow dance and sexual chemistry worked really well. The romantic element in this story is not an instalove. Instead it is a questioning of choices and to see if the connection is right for the both of them. The backwards and forwards of their relationship makes it more realistic. It is not a sure thing Clay will win the girl and maybe, Clay does not want to win the girl. The twists and turns of this story keeps a reader engaged and wanting to know what is going to happen next. With the mix of suspense and romance, this is a moving story of an unexpected love story intensified by danger.
Ms. Anders writing voice is strong and appeals to me. Her storytelling style is smooth and leads a reader down a journey. She captures the art of touching all the senses through the written word. She is a word sorceress. This romantic suspense is recommended to readers who enjoy angst, betrayals and unexpected acts of kindness.
*provided by Edelweiss
In this second book, the tie in is with unwanted tattoos. In this one, Clay Navarro shows up at Dr. Georgette Hadley's office for help. Placed in a dire situation, Clay has no option but to go off the grid. This includes finding a doctor who can remove tattoos forced upon him during an undercover operation gone sideways. This story starts out a little slow and quickly picks up.
I loved the characters. Ms. Anders creates memorable characters with deep layers. Clay is a complicated man who does not expect to find a woman at the lowest point of his life. Georgette comes across as a soft touch at first. Watching her stand up to others and her story unfold made the story more captivating. Clay and Georgette's slow dance and sexual chemistry worked really well. The romantic element in this story is not an instalove. Instead it is a questioning of choices and to see if the connection is right for the both of them. The backwards and forwards of their relationship makes it more realistic. It is not a sure thing Clay will win the girl and maybe, Clay does not want to win the girl. The twists and turns of this story keeps a reader engaged and wanting to know what is going to happen next. With the mix of suspense and romance, this is a moving story of an unexpected love story intensified by danger.
Ms. Anders writing voice is strong and appeals to me. Her storytelling style is smooth and leads a reader down a journey. She captures the art of touching all the senses through the written word. She is a word sorceress. This romantic suspense is recommended to readers who enjoy angst, betrayals and unexpected acts of kindness.
*provided by Edelweiss
March 19, 2017
I just loved Clay in this story, he sure knew how to get what he wanted.
"I can't get involved with patients. It's completely unethical." say's Dr. Georgette, to which Clay answers "Okay"...."You're fired". Lol. He really had his moments.
Clay Navarro is an undercover cop who has spent several years with the Sultans MC. He's had to do unimaginable things to fit in and wears the memory of his atrocities tattooed on his skin. Now he's on the run from the club, his biggest giveaway is his tats., they have to go and he won't be sorry when that happens. He asks Dr Georgette Handley, a dermatologist and a widow who discovers she's a little sexually frustrated when she get's to close to the over the top uniqueness of her sexy patient.
The characters in this story have broken pasts to over come and are both fight independently to make a better future. But sometimes everyone needs a helping hand, they just have to find the right person, and they seem to be someone you'd never expect. Lots of feelings of tension, angst and an attraction that they can't ignore.
A book not to be missed, I really enjoyed it!.
"I can't get involved with patients. It's completely unethical." say's Dr. Georgette, to which Clay answers "Okay"...."You're fired". Lol. He really had his moments.
Clay Navarro is an undercover cop who has spent several years with the Sultans MC. He's had to do unimaginable things to fit in and wears the memory of his atrocities tattooed on his skin. Now he's on the run from the club, his biggest giveaway is his tats., they have to go and he won't be sorry when that happens. He asks Dr Georgette Handley, a dermatologist and a widow who discovers she's a little sexually frustrated when she get's to close to the over the top uniqueness of her sexy patient.
The characters in this story have broken pasts to over come and are both fight independently to make a better future. But sometimes everyone needs a helping hand, they just have to find the right person, and they seem to be someone you'd never expect. Lots of feelings of tension, angst and an attraction that they can't ignore.
A book not to be missed, I really enjoyed it!.
May 4, 2017
Quickie Review:
The first book in this series was rather strange and I wasn't quite sure what to make of it. But I decided to try the second book and I enjoyed this one quite a bit. It's a much more typical (ie less strange) story than the first one...and I mean that in a good way. I really enjoyed the characters, the romance and the storyline. The characters really tug at you and pull at your emotions, especially Clay. The author had me wanting to keep reading to see how everything would work out. There was even a little bit of suspense (though I figured out the bad guy really early on). All around solid story though.
The first book in this series was rather strange and I wasn't quite sure what to make of it. But I decided to try the second book and I enjoyed this one quite a bit. It's a much more typical (ie less strange) story than the first one...and I mean that in a good way. I really enjoyed the characters, the romance and the storyline. The characters really tug at you and pull at your emotions, especially Clay. The author had me wanting to keep reading to see how everything would work out. There was even a little bit of suspense (though I figured out the bad guy really early on). All around solid story though.
November 5, 2017
I was a little hesitant about reading the second book in the Blank Canvas series because I knew the plot involved undercover cops and violent biker clubs. Not really my cup of tea, but I loved the first books so much that I finally gritted my teeth and started it. And boy, am I glad I did! The book is way more than suspense and not at all a damsel in distress story. There was real emotion in this story, redemption for both H/H and the women saved the day! So happy I read it. Looking forward to book three.
Also, so thrilled that the first book -- Under Her Skin -- was named a Publishers Weekly Top Five Romance for 2017!
Also, so thrilled that the first book -- Under Her Skin -- was named a Publishers Weekly Top Five Romance for 2017!
February 7, 2017
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca*
August 12, 2017
The Blank Canvas series continues in the fascinating Virginia small town with the doctor who removes tattoos for those who need it. Clay needs to remove his so he gets back to looking respectable, for the court case against the Sultan motorcycle gang where he was under cover. The gang members still not apprehended are trying to find him and kill him. Another team member has already been eliminated so Clay knows he can't trust anyone.
Wendy Tremont King continues the narration for this series. I did listen at 1.25x speed but when it is a southern setting, I tend not to speed it up. It worked fine for me here. King's presentation of the vividly detailed scenes and shattering emotions was touching.
By Her Touch is such an emotional firestorm. I was roiling throughout with worry, sexual tension, pride, fear, and relief. Clay struggles to get his head back in his regular law enforcement life and not as a nasty gang member. The doctor, George, has her own life to grow. She has mourned her husband, cared for her in-laws and worked to build a secure life. Her focus on work has kept her very solitary and she is just coming out of her shell. Her journey is brave and uplifting.
I feel so deeply for their challenges and am so proud of their growth. Nothing was simple for them emotionally but they persevered. All with a time bomb of gang retaliation ticking in the background. There are scenes with characters from the first book and some other characters are further developed. This author has a winning ability to draw emotions, develop complex characters and tell a heart grabbing tale. I am so lucky to have the next audio In His Hands, which was released August 1, and I will be reviewing next week.
Listen to a clip here.
Read this review in its entirety at The Book Nympho
April 5, 2017
Some wear large and often ugly scars on the outside, others hide the ugliness that they feel on the inside with complex artwork on their bodies, visible reminders of moments they will never forget. Oh sure, a tattoo can celebrate something good and wonderful, a cherished memory, or even a ‘what the heck’ moment, but for Clay, these tattoos mark every bad and evil moment in his life. Evil that he sees every day, reliving it, feelings of guilt that override the pride he should feel in being a key element to removing several evildoers from the streets. But his time as an undercover operative in the Sultan’s MC have taught him to eschew softness and gentleness – how could he not destroy that with all that he is, was and did?
Dr. Georgette Hadley specializes in tattoo removal, and is quite good at her job. When Clay appears for a consult, looking to remove much of the visible reminders (and marks) ‘earned’ in his time with the Sultans. Arriving and presenting a solid face of intimidation, George is intrigued, for deep within she sees something of the man deep within…. Whether it’s his eyes that don’t quite hide the hurt, or his proper manners and the way something deep within him cries out to her.
Poor Clay has really had a hard time of it – he wasn’t entirely ‘together’ before going deep under in the Sultans, and as often happens, there are a few who escaped capture still out there, vowing to hunt him down. And, in some ways, Clay actually believes that he deserves it – discounting the fact that as part of his job, the tasks he did ALLOWED him to stay and achieve success. And then there’s Georgette. Talented, funny, sweet Georgette with an aura he wants to absorb, but is afraid he too, will hurt her. Widowed very young, she’s not taken another chance with her heart, and the attraction to Clay has her willing to risk it again. But, there are dangers and threats, and some Sultans still out there…..
Anders drags the reader in, and you can feel the character’s pain with the honest and raw way they bare their souls. No one is all good or bad, and we can often find those nuggets of qualities unexplored, and grab to those, hoping that the character will grow and heal enough to find their own worth. Like the first in this series, both characters have issues, but Clay is far more broken and in need of kindness and gentleness, while Georgette’s concerns, until the threats from the gang appear, are far more common to us all and are based in the fear of being hurt. A deft ability to see her characters and make them speak and be vulnerable when it is most important characterizes Anders’ writing in this series, certain to make her a favorite to watch for many.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Dr. Georgette Hadley specializes in tattoo removal, and is quite good at her job. When Clay appears for a consult, looking to remove much of the visible reminders (and marks) ‘earned’ in his time with the Sultans. Arriving and presenting a solid face of intimidation, George is intrigued, for deep within she sees something of the man deep within…. Whether it’s his eyes that don’t quite hide the hurt, or his proper manners and the way something deep within him cries out to her.
Poor Clay has really had a hard time of it – he wasn’t entirely ‘together’ before going deep under in the Sultans, and as often happens, there are a few who escaped capture still out there, vowing to hunt him down. And, in some ways, Clay actually believes that he deserves it – discounting the fact that as part of his job, the tasks he did ALLOWED him to stay and achieve success. And then there’s Georgette. Talented, funny, sweet Georgette with an aura he wants to absorb, but is afraid he too, will hurt her. Widowed very young, she’s not taken another chance with her heart, and the attraction to Clay has her willing to risk it again. But, there are dangers and threats, and some Sultans still out there…..
Anders drags the reader in, and you can feel the character’s pain with the honest and raw way they bare their souls. No one is all good or bad, and we can often find those nuggets of qualities unexplored, and grab to those, hoping that the character will grow and heal enough to find their own worth. Like the first in this series, both characters have issues, but Clay is far more broken and in need of kindness and gentleness, while Georgette’s concerns, until the threats from the gang appear, are far more common to us all and are based in the fear of being hurt. A deft ability to see her characters and make them speak and be vulnerable when it is most important characterizes Anders’ writing in this series, certain to make her a favorite to watch for many.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
April 1, 2017
This review was copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.blogspot.com
First, if you haven’t read the first book in the series Under Her Skin I suggest you pick it up and start reading immediately because it is a masterpiece that needs to be worshipped. You can read my review of it here.
Now onto the good stuff: This book will hold you spellbound. SPELLBOUND. I don’t know how Ms. Anders does it, but she is going to make you feel things that have you wondering whether you’ve ever really felt anything before. She had my skin itching, my heart thumping, and my whole body tense with despair, hope, love, fear, and relief (not necessarily in that order). I swear there’s a permanent knot in my back from clutching my Kindle to my chest so hard that I’m surprised it didn’t snap in half.
We met George, the selfless tattoo removal specialist in the first book of the series, Under Her Skin. That’s really the only reason you would need to read the first book first, but I still recommend it because it’s so heart-breaking and unbelievably well written that you’ll be thinking about it days later. If that’s not a good enough reason to read a book then I’m not sure what your motivation to read is.
George is smart and kind and, while altogether functioning, a little broken. She and her pages bypass the fiction world and grab you right by your heart. There’s no other way to explain it really. You just read and hope that she figures things out in the end, like we all hope to do. Clay- handsome, dangerous, miserable Clay- is quite the male protagonist. He’s strong and capable and a protector at heart, but watching him battle with himself over his past and present and future is a despairing experience. You want to reach through the pages, wrap the guy up in your arms, and vow to protect him from himself.
There are no perfect characters in Ms. Anders’ books. Her characters are real and in such pain that you forget they’re fiction and find yourself praying that they find the peace they deserve. It’s a refreshing experience from the flawless, strong, and steadfast characters that we so often find (and love) in other novels.
The best part of this particular novel? Ms. Anders can write. These are some of the best written, most captivating and unforgettable books that I’ve read in a long time. The chemistry between her characters is unique, volatile, and passionate without being over-the-top or roll-your-eyes cliché. Her overarching plot is exceptional and I’ve never read anything like it. And the way she writes is unbelievably poetic, the words just falling into you as you make your way through the world she has created.
As always, please support your independent bookstores (unless you’re a Kindle reader and can’t, for obvious reasons). To find your nearest Indie Bookstore click here.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
First, if you haven’t read the first book in the series Under Her Skin I suggest you pick it up and start reading immediately because it is a masterpiece that needs to be worshipped. You can read my review of it here.
Now onto the good stuff: This book will hold you spellbound. SPELLBOUND. I don’t know how Ms. Anders does it, but she is going to make you feel things that have you wondering whether you’ve ever really felt anything before. She had my skin itching, my heart thumping, and my whole body tense with despair, hope, love, fear, and relief (not necessarily in that order). I swear there’s a permanent knot in my back from clutching my Kindle to my chest so hard that I’m surprised it didn’t snap in half.
We met George, the selfless tattoo removal specialist in the first book of the series, Under Her Skin. That’s really the only reason you would need to read the first book first, but I still recommend it because it’s so heart-breaking and unbelievably well written that you’ll be thinking about it days later. If that’s not a good enough reason to read a book then I’m not sure what your motivation to read is.
George is smart and kind and, while altogether functioning, a little broken. She and her pages bypass the fiction world and grab you right by your heart. There’s no other way to explain it really. You just read and hope that she figures things out in the end, like we all hope to do. Clay- handsome, dangerous, miserable Clay- is quite the male protagonist. He’s strong and capable and a protector at heart, but watching him battle with himself over his past and present and future is a despairing experience. You want to reach through the pages, wrap the guy up in your arms, and vow to protect him from himself.
There are no perfect characters in Ms. Anders’ books. Her characters are real and in such pain that you forget they’re fiction and find yourself praying that they find the peace they deserve. It’s a refreshing experience from the flawless, strong, and steadfast characters that we so often find (and love) in other novels.
The best part of this particular novel? Ms. Anders can write. These are some of the best written, most captivating and unforgettable books that I’ve read in a long time. The chemistry between her characters is unique, volatile, and passionate without being over-the-top or roll-your-eyes cliché. Her overarching plot is exceptional and I’ve never read anything like it. And the way she writes is unbelievably poetic, the words just falling into you as you make your way through the world she has created.
As always, please support your independent bookstores (unless you’re a Kindle reader and can’t, for obvious reasons). To find your nearest Indie Bookstore click here.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
March 5, 2022
Très bonne lecture avec ce deuxième opus, que j'ai d'ailleurs préféré au précédent. Je l'ai trouvé plus fort dans ses thématiques, et je me suis davantage attachée aux personnages et à leurs problématiques.⠀
⠀
Dans cet opus, nous suivons Georgie et Clay. Médecin spécialisé en dermatologie et surtout dans l'effacement au laser de tatouages, l'héroïne voit un jour Clay frapper à sa porte. Il se présente à elle sous une fausse identité, car il est en fuite après un long moment à avoir infiltré un gang de bikers. Marqué sur le corps suite à cette expérience plus que traumatisante, il cherche à effacer la plupart de ses nombreux tatouages. Et entre les héros, une alchimie s'installe rapidement, même si Clay reste très mystérieux et si le lien patient/médecin retient quelque peu Georgie...⠀
⠀
On est ici sur une romance plutôt slow, et ça m'a plu ! Le lien naissant entre les deux est fort et émotionnellement très intense... Clay est en plein trauma et ne va clairement pas bien. J'ai adoré son personnage et les impacts de son passé sous couverture. Il a perdu confiance en l'autre et nouer quelconque relation en devient hyper difficile. Et puis, je me suis fortement attachée à Georgie qui est en pleine réflexion quant à son futur, et qui est très touchante par bien des aspects. Quand la relation devient plus passionnelle, j'ai été bouleversée par Clay. C'est par le relation charnelle que l'on se rend encore plus compte de certaines conséquences de sa vie passé, et c'est très bien mené !⠀
⠀
J'avourai juste que j'ai trouvé la fin un peu rapide, au niveau du romantic suspens surtout mais vraiment, sinon, jai passé un super moment de lecture !⠀
⠀
⠀
Dans cet opus, nous suivons Georgie et Clay. Médecin spécialisé en dermatologie et surtout dans l'effacement au laser de tatouages, l'héroïne voit un jour Clay frapper à sa porte. Il se présente à elle sous une fausse identité, car il est en fuite après un long moment à avoir infiltré un gang de bikers. Marqué sur le corps suite à cette expérience plus que traumatisante, il cherche à effacer la plupart de ses nombreux tatouages. Et entre les héros, une alchimie s'installe rapidement, même si Clay reste très mystérieux et si le lien patient/médecin retient quelque peu Georgie...⠀
⠀
On est ici sur une romance plutôt slow, et ça m'a plu ! Le lien naissant entre les deux est fort et émotionnellement très intense... Clay est en plein trauma et ne va clairement pas bien. J'ai adoré son personnage et les impacts de son passé sous couverture. Il a perdu confiance en l'autre et nouer quelconque relation en devient hyper difficile. Et puis, je me suis fortement attachée à Georgie qui est en pleine réflexion quant à son futur, et qui est très touchante par bien des aspects. Quand la relation devient plus passionnelle, j'ai été bouleversée par Clay. C'est par le relation charnelle que l'on se rend encore plus compte de certaines conséquences de sa vie passé, et c'est très bien mené !⠀
⠀
J'avourai juste que j'ai trouvé la fin un peu rapide, au niveau du romantic suspens surtout mais vraiment, sinon, jai passé un super moment de lecture !⠀
⠀
October 23, 2019
Clay has been undercover in a biker gang for so long, he’s almost forgotten whose side he’s on. But with his cover blown and the gang leaders headed for trial, it’s time for Clay to figure out his next move. The first step is getting the tattoos his biker brethren forced on him removed. That’s how he meets Georgette, a dermatologist with a small-town practice remote enough from Clay’s old life that hopefully he’ll be safe. They have a slow-growing yet undeniable connection, but it’s only a matter of time before Clay’s past catches up with both of them.
There are lots of reasons I shouldn't have liked this book. Romantic suspense isn't my preferred genre. Doctor/patient romantic relationships make me feel squicky. I'm impatient with "rough around the edges" heroes who have to be convinced that they deserve love. Buuuuuuuuut. I really like this gritty, angsty series. I like seeing characters who have been through some shit fall in love and help each other heal. It gives me hope.
There are lots of reasons I shouldn't have liked this book. Romantic suspense isn't my preferred genre. Doctor/patient romantic relationships make me feel squicky. I'm impatient with "rough around the edges" heroes who have to be convinced that they deserve love. Buuuuuuuuut. I really like this gritty, angsty series. I like seeing characters who have been through some shit fall in love and help each other heal. It gives me hope.
October 9, 2017
The story was good, but the relationship itself lacked sparks. I just couldn’t connect with the H/h.
dnf
June 12, 2017I can pretty much read anything. As a literature student I have to get through books, even if I really dislike them. By Her Touch is one of the rare books that beat me. I just couldn't finish it. I should start by saying that this is not a 'bad' book. There are some interesting things happening here, and I applaud Adriana Anders for creating well rounded, conflicted characters. The problem was the pacing. This book just seemed to go on for ever. 400 pages was just too much for this. There were long periods of time when nothing happened. I felt like I was just reading about the day to day actions of these people. I am all about a slow burning romance, I enjoy character building but literally it was pages and pages of nothing. I just couldn't cope.
Also (and this is a bit of a spoiler) I was quite annoyed when George got physically assaulted, as in beaten up, by a bunch of druggies and it was just brushed off. It's her fault for getting involved in a 'domestic' (nope, nope, nope) and Clay WHO IS A POLICEMAN and saves her (eye roll) doesn't want her to report it because he doesn't want any one to know where he is! This makes him a pretty shit policeman and I would argue, not a great man. Violence happens, I do not object to it being in books, as long as it supports the storyline and has a real purpose and isn't used just to further a romance. It has to be treated properly because it is important, and real, and happens to people everyday. In my opinion it was not treated properly here.
Sorry for the rant but it really rubbed me the wrong way.
April 21, 2017
The first few chapters of this book, By Her Touch, were tacked onto the end of Under Her Skin, the first book in this series and boy, was that a sneaky thing to do. Because once I started the book, I couldn't put it down. And then the chapters ran out and I had to buy it and devour the rest. Yep, it was that good. I really liked the first book and this was no disappointment. I like some of the crossover of characters though I would have loved to see more. Maybe Anders will take pity on us and write another story with the two heroes of these books together in some action packed sequel. They would be quite the force to be reckoned with. And this quaint little town and the people in it certainly got under my skin. Another great story from this author!
September 22, 2025
By Her Touch is a lovely small town romance with a dark side. Clay Navarro and George both have their own troubled pasts and were good people. I was so happy to see George find someone who could potentially be the one to help her heal after being a such a self-less and caring person and losing her husband. Adriana Anders does an amazing job at combining small town romance and suspenseful mysteries.
I also loved the little glimpses of characters from the first Blank Canvas book 1, Under Her Skin and I'm hoping the trend will continue in book 3, In His Hands.
I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
**This is book 2 in the Blank Canvas series, but it can be read as a standalone**
I also loved the little glimpses of characters from the first Blank Canvas book 1, Under Her Skin and I'm hoping the trend will continue in book 3, In His Hands.
I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
**This is book 2 in the Blank Canvas series, but it can be read as a standalone**
February 1, 2017
Anders took my by surprise when I read her first book,"Under Her Skin", so I was bit more prepared as to what to expect when I started this book. I was so excited to see George's story play out, she was one of my favorite characters from the first book. (I was also pretty stoked to hear some more of Ive and Uma's story!!!!!)
George and Clay fit together perfectly and I ran the gamut of emotions throughout this book, in the best way possible. I hope Anders next book is about Ive's sister, Jessie. Glad to have found Anders, she now has a lifelong fan in this reader.
Thanks to Sourcebooks and NetGalley for the ARC!
George and Clay fit together perfectly and I ran the gamut of emotions throughout this book, in the best way possible. I hope Anders next book is about Ive's sister, Jessie. Glad to have found Anders, she now has a lifelong fan in this reader.
Thanks to Sourcebooks and NetGalley for the ARC!
April 10, 2017
I enjoyed this book even more than Under Her Skin. While I typically avoid MC novels I loved the story of Clay, an undercover cop who's now more bikie than law enforcement and George is a former wild child turned dermatologist with a heart of gold. Their chemistry and their affection for one another was incredibly touching and hot.
Other things I loved;
1. The way Clay described George.
2. That George had an abortion when she was 15 and didn't need to spend the rest of the book emotionally or actually lashing herself for it.
3. That Uma and Ivan are having a baybay.
4. The sex scenes. Vanilla shot through with sweet sweet angst and a sprinkle of kink. I loved them.
Other things I loved;
1. The way Clay described George.
2. That George had an abortion when she was 15 and didn't need to spend the rest of the book emotionally or actually lashing herself for it.
3. That Uma and Ivan are having a baybay.
4. The sex scenes. Vanilla shot through with sweet sweet angst and a sprinkle of kink. I loved them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews