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Skin Deep Inc. #1
Back Piece
Colin Spencer is a tattoo artist with a past he’d prefer to keep a secret. Actually, he has a few secrets that he’d rather people didn’t know about, which is why Colin doesn’t do commitment. But when a shy sailor approaches him at the gym, Colin finds this guy pushing all his buttons.
Growing up in a conservative family, then escaping with the Navy, Daniel Moore is an unsure virgin who feels like he can’t share his true self with anyone. Seeing Colin—and his tattoos—at the gym are the sign Daniel needs to finally get those tattoos he’s always wanted, and maybe try his hand at flirting.
As Colin and Daniel spend more time together, their awkward hesitations turn into a deep passion neither expected. But with both men harbouring secrets, will their relationship be able to survive their insecurities and become something beautiful?
Growing up in a conservative family, then escaping with the Navy, Daniel Moore is an unsure virgin who feels like he can’t share his true self with anyone. Seeing Colin—and his tattoos—at the gym are the sign Daniel needs to finally get those tattoos he’s always wanted, and maybe try his hand at flirting.
As Colin and Daniel spend more time together, their awkward hesitations turn into a deep passion neither expected. But with both men harbouring secrets, will their relationship be able to survive their insecurities and become something beautiful?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2017
133 people are currently reading
1316 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Witt
218 books2,725 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 307 reviews
April 21, 2017
~3.5~
All the ❤ ❤ ❤ for:
- Two real MCs, not perfect, far from it, but doing their best. I especially loved Daniel who put himself out there and never held back.
- Real-life virgin who's eager to finally be with a man. Daniel was raised in a religious, homophobic household and never had the chance to explore his sexuality. Colin is just the man to show him how amazing two men can be together.
- Hot & tender lovin'. Wowza on the passion between these two! This is a VERY steamy story.
- The way Witt presented Daniel's family. It's so easy to judge and dismiss anyone who won't come out to their family, but Daniel's parents really love him, and they're genuinely engaging people (except for the raging homophobe part, of course). I like that Witt didn't take the easy way out and make Daniel's parents super evil villains.
- Communication. The MCs are good at talking things through.
And now the ☹ ☹ ☹:
- This book is too long considering there's no real plot. Daniel and Colin talk and have sex. Colin tattoos Daniel. Rinse. Repeat. How many times can you discuss your insecurities or scold yourself mentally for doing or saying the wrong thing? And the answer is: TOO MANY.
- Colin's backstory was hella angsty. We find out early on that (not a massive spoiler, but just in case) . An ex-boyfriend really did a number on him, and Colin is incredibly hard on himself. I'm glad Colin's issue wasn't brushed aside, but his treatment didn't seem to be working.
- The way Colin treated Daniel after Daniel's parents left. This veered dangerously close to manufactured melodrama territory (everything is so good; let's give 'em something to fight about).
- Very abrupt HFN ending. The book ends like an hour after the MCs kiss and makeup. I needed MORE. The guys had only known each other for a few weeks at that point, and their plans for the future were vague at best.
That COVER, though. Seriously. All the lust for that cover.
All the ❤ ❤ ❤ for:
- Two real MCs, not perfect, far from it, but doing their best. I especially loved Daniel who put himself out there and never held back.
- Real-life virgin who's eager to finally be with a man. Daniel was raised in a religious, homophobic household and never had the chance to explore his sexuality. Colin is just the man to show him how amazing two men can be together.
- Hot & tender lovin'. Wowza on the passion between these two! This is a VERY steamy story.
- The way Witt presented Daniel's family. It's so easy to judge and dismiss anyone who won't come out to their family, but Daniel's parents really love him, and they're genuinely engaging people (except for the raging homophobe part, of course). I like that Witt didn't take the easy way out and make Daniel's parents super evil villains.
- Communication. The MCs are good at talking things through.
And now the ☹ ☹ ☹:
- This book is too long considering there's no real plot. Daniel and Colin talk and have sex. Colin tattoos Daniel. Rinse. Repeat. How many times can you discuss your insecurities or scold yourself mentally for doing or saying the wrong thing? And the answer is: TOO MANY.
- Colin's backstory was hella angsty. We find out early on that (not a massive spoiler, but just in case) . An ex-boyfriend really did a number on him, and Colin is incredibly hard on himself. I'm glad Colin's issue wasn't brushed aside, but his treatment didn't seem to be working.
- The way Colin treated Daniel after Daniel's parents left. This veered dangerously close to manufactured melodrama territory (everything is so good; let's give 'em something to fight about).
- Very abrupt HFN ending. The book ends like an hour after the MCs kiss and makeup. I needed MORE. The guys had only known each other for a few weeks at that point, and their plans for the future were vague at best.
That COVER, though. Seriously. All the lust for that cover.
May 3, 2017
*3.5 stars*
I read a lot of L.A. Witt books (about 25 , if you include all of her pen names), but my average rating for her hovers around 3-stars. I always like her stuff, but rarely do I LOVE her solo works. However, Back Piece ranks up there with my favorite books from her. In fact, if it wasn't so draggy through the middle, I'd be practically ecstatic.
It really helps that Back Piece has a couple of my personal favorite tropes. For one, we get a virgin. Me and virgins... dreamy sigh. I have a virgin kink that doesn't seem to be going anywhere any time soon, so if you give me an eager virgin, I'll practically melt on the pages. +1 point for that, L.A. Witt.
I also like military men but hate romantic suspense. Now, that is a conundrum. Basically, I like military men in contemporary romances, and this book fit that bill to a T.
I think we get a really nice build-up here to a truly lovely romance. Both men have a lot of baggage, and there is a LOT to angst over, but I liked how the author dealt with their issues. There are a couple of themes that we don't often see with men in romance, but I liked them in the story and thought they brought depth to the characters.
Sure, we get the homophobic parents theme, but although I've read it time and time again, the reality is that it is something that is still all too prevalent in our world. I didn't love the drama at the end and the slowness in the middle, but I was willing to overlook those facts because I found the romance to be really satisfying.
Hot tattooed men + virgin + military = I'm a happy camper. L.A. Witt made me smile with this one.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
I read a lot of L.A. Witt books (about 25 , if you include all of her pen names), but my average rating for her hovers around 3-stars. I always like her stuff, but rarely do I LOVE her solo works. However, Back Piece ranks up there with my favorite books from her. In fact, if it wasn't so draggy through the middle, I'd be practically ecstatic.
It really helps that Back Piece has a couple of my personal favorite tropes. For one, we get a virgin. Me and virgins... dreamy sigh. I have a virgin kink that doesn't seem to be going anywhere any time soon, so if you give me an eager virgin, I'll practically melt on the pages. +1 point for that, L.A. Witt.
I also like military men but hate romantic suspense. Now, that is a conundrum. Basically, I like military men in contemporary romances, and this book fit that bill to a T.
I think we get a really nice build-up here to a truly lovely romance. Both men have a lot of baggage, and there is a LOT to angst over, but I liked how the author dealt with their issues. There are a couple of themes that we don't often see with men in romance, but I liked them in the story and thought they brought depth to the characters.
Sure, we get the homophobic parents theme, but although I've read it time and time again, the reality is that it is something that is still all too prevalent in our world. I didn't love the drama at the end and the slowness in the middle, but I was willing to overlook those facts because I found the romance to be really satisfying.
Hot tattooed men + virgin + military = I'm a happy camper. L.A. Witt made me smile with this one.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
April 25, 2017
IT'S LIVE!!!!!!!
https://www.amazon.com/Back-Piece-Ski...
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3.5*
I love a book about characters who are flawed.
This is a story about two guys trying to find their happy. Both dealing with issues that are very different from one another. They both have imperfections, but they own their imperfections and are not scared to vocalize them nor afraid to admit they are a work in progress.
Colin is a tattoo artist who use to work in the porn industry. He's not ashamed of it. But it did lead to his downfall when he got involved with a director who was emotionally abusive triggering a eating disorder that had laid just below the surface until his ex brought it out in full force. Colin is in a constant battle with his body. Luckily he has a great support system in his trainer, his therapist, and his brother who all help keep him on a healthy path. But sometimes his emotions get the best of him and he starts to fall a little. But his support system is always there to pick him back up and give him the courage to keep fighting.
Daniel is out, but only to his ship mates. He is also a virgin and never been with a man. The close he has ever gotten was a drunken encounter where there had only been some kissing. So he is pretty naïve and inexperienced in his sexual preference. He grew up in a VERY religious family. The religious kind that actually gathers the family to go to gay prides and scream things like, "You're going to, Hell" to those celebrating their love and pride. To be gay and to be raised in a family that takes you to these events to scream at likeminded people like yourself could be traumatic for anyone let alone a teenager.
When Daniel and Colin meet sparks fly. They can't help but keep stealing glances at each other as they both train with their respective trainers. When Daniel finds out Colin is a tattoo artist he jumps on the opportunity to finally get the tattoos he's been wanting and also to spend some time with the hot artist. Colin doesn't do relationships anymore, but when he notices Daniel showing interest and discovers he's a virgin, he is more than willing to be Daniels guinea pig for any and all sexual exploits. But soon what was suppose to be a friends with benefits kind of relationship turns into a real one.
The guys are really honest with each other and show their vulnerable sides that doesn't come easy to either but still do it with the quiet strength they both have. Daniel has some hang ups and insecurities about not being out with his family and being naïve when it comes to sex, but Colin has been nothing but encouraging and non-judgmental. Colin has bared his soul and all his insecurities and is in awe that Daniel still stands firm beside him. I won't say there wasn't any angst, because with both men having some pretty heavy issues independently they were bound to let some of their insecurities effect their relationship. But it was mild.
What I loved about this story is that it showed two characters who struggled throughout and in the end wasn't wrapped up all pretty were everything was great. It was an unconventional HEA for these guys because there was still work to be done. Independently and together.
***ARC kindly provided by the publishers through NetGalley in return for an honest review.***
April 22, 2017
3.5 Stars
It's no secret that I generally love LA Witt's military stories. There's just something about a man in uniform finding himself head over heals in love that I just can't get enough of. Also, I really love men with tattoos, and that's no secret either.
Back Piece is about a sailor who finds love with a tattoo artist. Both men are, to varying degrees, pretty messed up and seeing them work their way through to their own personal acceptance is what the story is all about.
Colin Spencer has more issues than National Geographic. I'm not going to spoil and outline them here, but suffice it to say he needs a support system (and thankfully, he has one) and he is also his own worst enemy. Colin seems confident on the surface, but he is anything but. With his work, he is confident and very talented and skilled, but personally he's been burned by supremely toxic relationships and even those that weren't toxic would often have trouble accepting Colin's past. So much so, that he expects everyone to leave.
Daniel Moore could not wait to turn 18 so he could run as fast as he could away from his small town and super religious and homophobic family. The military was pretty much his only option, so he went Navy. He's been in for 8 years now and figures he'll be a career guy. The one really good thing now, is that he can be out and he is -- on the ship. The problem? Well, Daniel is a virgin, but he doesn't want his coworkers to know. But seeing Colin at a local gym is making Daniel think he might just be ready to give up that V card. If only he can get past his anxiety.
I loved the basic premise of Back Piece. The virgin from a religious family, finally figuring out that you can't change other people. That your control begins and ends with yourself. And the tattoo artist who is undeniably more experienced, but who has insecurities of his own. The execution missed at times, though. There was way too much inner dialog with each of them second guessing the other and telling themselves that the other one really wasn't feeling the same. It got very repetitive. Also, the actual dialog felt awkward. I'm not used to that coming from this author. And, lastly, there was a bit of a martyr issue, on the part of Colin, that just made me sigh.
What I loved though is just how their relationship evolved from 'friends with benefits' to 'boyfriends' without either of them really noticing. And their smexytimes -- oh, yes -- LA Witt knows how to write the smex. Also, I truly appreciated the fact that there was no 'magic dick' cure for either of them, but especially Colin.
So, while Back Piece isn't my favorite by this author, I did enjoy it and would give it an overall 3.5 "gimme more tattoos" stars.
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ARC of Back Piece was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
It's no secret that I generally love LA Witt's military stories. There's just something about a man in uniform finding himself head over heals in love that I just can't get enough of. Also, I really love men with tattoos, and that's no secret either.
Back Piece is about a sailor who finds love with a tattoo artist. Both men are, to varying degrees, pretty messed up and seeing them work their way through to their own personal acceptance is what the story is all about.
Colin Spencer has more issues than National Geographic. I'm not going to spoil and outline them here, but suffice it to say he needs a support system (and thankfully, he has one) and he is also his own worst enemy. Colin seems confident on the surface, but he is anything but. With his work, he is confident and very talented and skilled, but personally he's been burned by supremely toxic relationships and even those that weren't toxic would often have trouble accepting Colin's past. So much so, that he expects everyone to leave.
Daniel Moore could not wait to turn 18 so he could run as fast as he could away from his small town and super religious and homophobic family. The military was pretty much his only option, so he went Navy. He's been in for 8 years now and figures he'll be a career guy. The one really good thing now, is that he can be out and he is -- on the ship. The problem? Well, Daniel is a virgin, but he doesn't want his coworkers to know. But seeing Colin at a local gym is making Daniel think he might just be ready to give up that V card. If only he can get past his anxiety.
I loved the basic premise of Back Piece. The virgin from a religious family, finally figuring out that you can't change other people. That your control begins and ends with yourself. And the tattoo artist who is undeniably more experienced, but who has insecurities of his own. The execution missed at times, though. There was way too much inner dialog with each of them second guessing the other and telling themselves that the other one really wasn't feeling the same. It got very repetitive. Also, the actual dialog felt awkward. I'm not used to that coming from this author. And, lastly, there was a bit of a martyr issue, on the part of Colin, that just made me sigh.
What I loved though is just how their relationship evolved from 'friends with benefits' to 'boyfriends' without either of them really noticing. And their smexytimes -- oh, yes -- LA Witt knows how to write the smex. Also, I truly appreciated the fact that there was no 'magic dick' cure for either of them, but especially Colin.
So, while Back Piece isn't my favorite by this author, I did enjoy it and would give it an overall 3.5 "gimme more tattoos" stars.
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ARC of Back Piece was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2017
I have read several books by this author and though this book was good, it didn't wow me. I think one of the reasons it didn't was because a bit too long for my liking.
Colin and Daniel meet at the gym. When Daniel finds out Colin is a tattoo artist, he goes to the shop to have one done. These two are quite the opposite of one another.
Daniel is a 26 closeted virgin and Colin is former porn star. Both are struggeling with different things in life. For Colin, one of those things is an eating disorder, for Daniel it's his homophobic parents, who don't know he's gay.
Daniel is very ready to give his virginity up and Colin is more than happy to help him.
There are a lot of steamy scenes in this book.....dare I say maybe too much ..... Don't get me wrong...I really think these two were hot together, but I started skimming a bit.
I liked that hey went from friends with benefits to lovers....they really did get to know each other well.
There is a lot tattooing going on and since I have worked at a tattooshop myself many years....I really liked these parts.
What I didn't like though was the ending....or lack of. I enjoy a good epilogue and I really could have done with one here. The end felt very abrupt with me.
An ARC was kindly provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Colin and Daniel meet at the gym. When Daniel finds out Colin is a tattoo artist, he goes to the shop to have one done. These two are quite the opposite of one another.
Daniel is a 26 closeted virgin and Colin is former porn star. Both are struggeling with different things in life. For Colin, one of those things is an eating disorder, for Daniel it's his homophobic parents, who don't know he's gay.
Daniel is very ready to give his virginity up and Colin is more than happy to help him.
There are a lot of steamy scenes in this book.....dare I say maybe too much ..... Don't get me wrong...I really think these two were hot together, but I started skimming a bit.
I liked that hey went from friends with benefits to lovers....they really did get to know each other well.
There is a lot tattooing going on and since I have worked at a tattooshop myself many years....I really liked these parts.
What I didn't like though was the ending....or lack of. I enjoy a good epilogue and I really could have done with one here. The end felt very abrupt with me.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
An ARC was kindly provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 28, 2017
4 Stars
I have to begin by saying that this might just be my favourite book cover of 2017. I mean, I'm not even particularly into muscled men or tattoos, but damn this cover is shit-hot!!!
But I digress...
Daniel Moore is a 26 year old sailor in the Navy. He is out on the job but deeply closeted where his religious (and horribly homophobic) family are concerned. With circumstances as they are, Daniel has never quite found an opportunity to explore his sexuality as a gay man, and as such is still a virgin. He's more than ready to rid himself of that pesky v-card, but he's also understandably nervous about the whole thing.
Daniel's whole life changes when he meets and befriends 31 year old tattoo artist, Colin Spencer. Colin is sweet and sexy, and he seems to be just as smitten with Daniel as Daniel is with him.
Initially, the men get to know one another while Daniel is getting his first tattoos inked over several long (and painful) sessions in Colin's chair. Daniel can't resist Colin, who treats him with kindness and respect, never judging Daniel's inexperience or making him feel anything but wanted and worthy of his affections. Before long, Daniel and Colin are sharing their bodies on a regular basis, and although it wasn't originally in either man's plans, their hearts quickly follow suit.
Daniel and Colin were very rich, thought-out characters, both bringing a metric ton of personal baggage to their tentative, but sexy-as-sin, relationship. Daniel's coming-out issues with his homophobic parents were anxiety inducing for sure, but it was Colin, with his ongoing health issues, that really pulled me in and provided the story with some reasonable depth. Thankfully, the themes within were never brushed over or used as throwaway character issues, instead they received the focus and consideration they very well deserved.
Overall, I really enjoyed Daniel and Colin's story. I especially loved the fact that they were damn near masters of communication and they talked their shit out on the regular, even when the subject matter was ugly or potentially uncomfortable. I found this extremely refreshing to say the least.
I'll even go as far as to say this has been my most enjoyable L.A. Witt read to date, and I look forward to continuing with these military men and their tattoo artists soon enough!
I have to begin by saying that this might just be my favourite book cover of 2017. I mean, I'm not even particularly into muscled men or tattoos, but damn this cover is shit-hot!!!
But I digress...
Daniel Moore is a 26 year old sailor in the Navy. He is out on the job but deeply closeted where his religious (and horribly homophobic) family are concerned. With circumstances as they are, Daniel has never quite found an opportunity to explore his sexuality as a gay man, and as such is still a virgin. He's more than ready to rid himself of that pesky v-card, but he's also understandably nervous about the whole thing.
Daniel's whole life changes when he meets and befriends 31 year old tattoo artist, Colin Spencer. Colin is sweet and sexy, and he seems to be just as smitten with Daniel as Daniel is with him.
Initially, the men get to know one another while Daniel is getting his first tattoos inked over several long (and painful) sessions in Colin's chair. Daniel can't resist Colin, who treats him with kindness and respect, never judging Daniel's inexperience or making him feel anything but wanted and worthy of his affections. Before long, Daniel and Colin are sharing their bodies on a regular basis, and although it wasn't originally in either man's plans, their hearts quickly follow suit.
Daniel and Colin were very rich, thought-out characters, both bringing a metric ton of personal baggage to their tentative, but sexy-as-sin, relationship. Daniel's coming-out issues with his homophobic parents were anxiety inducing for sure, but it was Colin, with his ongoing health issues, that really pulled me in and provided the story with some reasonable depth. Thankfully, the themes within were never brushed over or used as throwaway character issues, instead they received the focus and consideration they very well deserved.
Overall, I really enjoyed Daniel and Colin's story. I especially loved the fact that they were damn near masters of communication and they talked their shit out on the regular, even when the subject matter was ugly or potentially uncomfortable. I found this extremely refreshing to say the least.
I'll even go as far as to say this has been my most enjoyable L.A. Witt read to date, and I look forward to continuing with these military men and their tattoo artists soon enough!
dnf
July 31, 2020dnf @ 50%
It's been four months since I've started listening to the audiobook and I don't see myself finishing it. I find the story and the writing very repetitive and a bit boring, to be honest. Endless tattooing scenes and sex scenes that read like a manual.
The narration is good, but that's not enough for me to continue.
It's been four months since I've started listening to the audiobook and I don't see myself finishing it. I find the story and the writing very repetitive and a bit boring, to be honest. Endless tattooing scenes and sex scenes that read like a manual.
The narration is good, but that's not enough for me to continue.
April 18, 2017
Cute and sweet and hot, hot, hot.
I loved these boys. Perfect on the outside but just a little messed up on the inside.
Colin has a great family and has led what most would consider a great life. But, he has a demon inside that he has to struggle with every day of his life. A demon that was fed by a toxic relationship in his past. His fears and insecurities stem directly from his fight with this demon. Because of this, he no longer believes he can have a healthy relationship. Fortunately, he has a wonderful support system in place that helps him deal with the inevitable setbacks.
Daniel also has a wonderful family who love and protect him. However, his family has a truly rotten belief system. One of those religious fanatic beliefs that pick and choose specific lines out of the Bible to live by, as if those lines were meant to be read alone instead of in context as part of the whole. A belief system that IMHO is akin to brainwashing.
Daniel is the living, breathing, antitheses to those beliefs. He hides like a hunted animal during this adolescent years and escapes to the military life as soon as he turns 18 years old.
Eight years later, he is out and proud to his teammates in the Navy. He visits his family a few select times during the year and continues hiding who he is. Knowing that if they ever find out his true self, they will instantly disown him. It's tragic. My heart hurt reading this aspect of the plot.
Luckily, the bulk of the plot was much lighter. Virgin still at 26 y.o., Daniel meets Colin at the gym. Sparks fly and blushes ensue. Mine as well as theirs. Did I mention this is hot? Lots of super steamy scenes as Daniel loses his virginity and the boys seamlessly fall in love.
It was a lot of fun watching these two find their way. But the beautiful thing about them was that they were so accepting of each other. Neither of them judging or discouraging. Communicating well and putting the other's well-being first. Gorgeous relationship. Really beautiful.
Review ARC graciously provider by the publisher via NetGalley
I loved these boys. Perfect on the outside but just a little messed up on the inside.
Colin has a great family and has led what most would consider a great life. But, he has a demon inside that he has to struggle with every day of his life. A demon that was fed by a toxic relationship in his past. His fears and insecurities stem directly from his fight with this demon. Because of this, he no longer believes he can have a healthy relationship. Fortunately, he has a wonderful support system in place that helps him deal with the inevitable setbacks.
Daniel also has a wonderful family who love and protect him. However, his family has a truly rotten belief system. One of those religious fanatic beliefs that pick and choose specific lines out of the Bible to live by, as if those lines were meant to be read alone instead of in context as part of the whole. A belief system that IMHO is akin to brainwashing.
Daniel is the living, breathing, antitheses to those beliefs. He hides like a hunted animal during this adolescent years and escapes to the military life as soon as he turns 18 years old.
Eight years later, he is out and proud to his teammates in the Navy. He visits his family a few select times during the year and continues hiding who he is. Knowing that if they ever find out his true self, they will instantly disown him. It's tragic. My heart hurt reading this aspect of the plot.
Luckily, the bulk of the plot was much lighter. Virgin still at 26 y.o., Daniel meets Colin at the gym. Sparks fly and blushes ensue. Mine as well as theirs. Did I mention this is hot? Lots of super steamy scenes as Daniel loses his virginity and the boys seamlessly fall in love.
So that's why everyone likes blowjobs so much.
It was a lot of fun watching these two find their way. But the beautiful thing about them was that they were so accepting of each other. Neither of them judging or discouraging. Communicating well and putting the other's well-being first. Gorgeous relationship. Really beautiful.
You were beautiful before we got here tonight. Now I don't know how to breathe around you.
Review ARC graciously provider by the publisher via NetGalley
April 12, 2017
2.5 to 3*
THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SLIGHT SPOILERS
This is the first book I've read by this author although several of her books have been on my to-read list for awhile now. I don't know if I just picked the wrong book for me but I'm sorry to say this didn't really work for me.
This isn't a bad book far from it in fact, it's well written and deals with a sensitive subject incredibly well, the characters are flawed and real (I mean who isn't flawed?) and I can see why it's got a lot of fabulous reviews.
So what on earth is my problem?
I need an alpha male. There I said it, it's as simple as that.
People read for different reasons I never read real life tragedies I just can't cope with the upset or anguish and the fact that they leave me feeling so sad and helpless.
I read romance and while this book is a romance I just didn't enjoy reading it.
Daniel is a twenty-six year old virgin who can't come out to his homophobic parents but it's Colin (who I expected to be the muscled tattooed alpha) who carries the most baggage.
Like I said this book is well written and beautiful in places, I was so glad that Daniel's first time was with Colin who was sweet, tender and understanding with him but I just didn't like it.
There's a lot of sex in this book and I do mean a lot, the first half of the book is basically sex and tattoos, the second half felt stronger with more story.
It ends rather quickly and there's no epilogue.
This is book 1, I'm not sure if the next book continues on with Colin and Daniel or if it features a different couple but either way we've not had the end of their story.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press.
May 16, 2017
***3.5 Stars***
Colin had wound up in Virginia thanks to his life spiraling out of control. Daniel had come here because of the Navy, which he'd joined to escape his homophobic hometown. And while Colin wouldn't have wished any of their experiences on anyone, damn, he couldn't help being grateful their clusterfuck paths had lead them both here. To each other. To this.
This was quite the heartwarming story about two imperfect men falling in love. It's a quieter story, which I wasn't expecting, but really enjoyed. Based on the blurb, I really thought there'd be more angst than there was (which was very little). Some things were hits, while unfortunately others were misses.
Communication – This is at the top of my list of things I loved about this book. I adored how open and honest Daniel and Colin were with each other. They discussed some sensitive topics (religion, mental abuse, and eating disorders) with care and zero judgment. They listened to each other…not just heard the words, but felt the emotion behind the explanations and the reasoning for the decisions they made. They were so supportive of each other too. They connected so easily because it was quickly evident that fear, insecurities and judgment had no place in their relationship.
Daniel’s virginity – It's refreshing that it wasn’t treated like a fetishized trope. It wasn’t all about “Daniel’s a 26 year old virgin, that’s so hot!” It was more about why Daniel ended up being a 26 year old virgin. How he had to hide who he was. How he was trying to understand what he wanted. How things snowballed and he felt embarrassed for not being more experienced, which in turn kept him from getting the experience he so desperately wanted and yearned for. The fumbling and nerves when Colin and Daniel got together was equal parts funny and heartwarming…and I’m not gonna lie….pretty damn hot. Being in Daniel’s head while he was experiencing these new things for the first time was so honest and electric and added this layer of wonder that amped up the emotion to another level.
Colin’s issues – I like that the author flipped the script. Eating disorders don’t only affect women, and listening to Colin talk about his highs and lows, coping mechanisms and thought processes about his disease was eye opening. So many times we think that those men working out for hours on end at the gym are nothing more than gym rats, dudebros working on their gains…but it could easily be an unhealthy obsession with their body, a way of punishing themselves for something else going on in their lives, or a host of other issues. I really liked seeing a different perspective about a disease that primarily has a women’s face as its representative.
But at some point, after you've been building walls around yourself for a while, it stops being protection and becomes a tomb.
Unfortunately, there are some things that didn’t work for me.
This book is way too long – This is my main issue with the book. There are so many extra words here that add absolutely nothing to the story. They don’t add to the character development or move the story forward. First off, while I appreciate the detail given about Colin’s job as a tattoo artist…there was entirely too much here. I am now completely familiar with the tattoo process from start to finish. The aftercare instructions. The healing process. How endorphins help you. Approximately how long tattoos of varying sizes take to complete. Which parts of the body hurt the most and the least. Did I really need all of this? It was interesting to read about….but in my romance…nope, didn’t need this much information.
Second, there’s a LOT of dialogue in this book. While I mentioned that I love open and honest communication in a relationship…I don’t need to be there for every word of it. For the first half of this book, these two talked about sex A LOT. I understand that it stemmed from Daniel’s curiosity and desire to try everything and Colin’s need to reassure Daniel’s insecurities…but wow, there was a lot of chatter. Again, nothing that added character development or moved the story forward. Frankly, it felt like a bunch of filler.
This book definitely could have benefited from a healthy trimming to streamline the storytelling.
Colin's previous profession - I didn't I understand why there needed to be an in-depth explanation and question and answer period regarding it. I'm talking about pages and pages and pages discussing it. Lots of pages. In addition to tattooing, I now have quite a healthy knowledge about another topic.
Overall, this was a book that I really did enjoy. Colin and Daniel melted my heart and I adored how supportive they are of each other.
"You do know being with somebody like me is not going to be easy."
"You think it'll be easy being with me? With deployments and duty schedules and all that shit? I'm not here for easy. I'm here for you. And if you can handle all the bullshit that comes with being with me, you better believe I can handle whatever comes with being with you."
"I can't imagine anything that would keep me from wanting to be with you."
"Then you understand how I feel about you."
"I just don't get why. Why me?"
"I could ask you the same thing."
***ARC courtesy of publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review***
September 25, 2017
Nothing about this book worked for me.
I didn’t like the writing, there was no flow to it at all. It was all telling and facts that just didn’t matter. The dialogue was awkward and didn’t seem like two men would sound.
Daniel at one point admitted that he felt stuck in time at 16, which may be the most believable thing about this book. He really read as a child to me. Not someone in the Navy. Not a 26 year old man. A child. His family was confusingly portrayed as evil and extremely bigoted but then portrayed as silly and fun, fun, fun. Once Daniel found out Colin was an ex-porn star that is all he wanted to talk about. It was so awkward. All the sex conversations were.
Colin had major issues. I mean MAJOR. Like if this is really his life he needs serious help and the help he is getting now is not working. His issues were the entire book. His ex-porn career and his illness. That is it. I didn’t get any of it though but I was for sure tired of hearing about it. It was so depressing. I don’t understand where it came from, but his head was seriously messed up and again, he needs a huge intervention.
I am not a fan of how tattoos are portrayed in this book either.
Ugh.
I’m just going to leave it at that. This just was not for me. It was a painful read and it took me forever to finish it.
Of course I’ll read the next one.
I didn’t like the writing, there was no flow to it at all. It was all telling and facts that just didn’t matter. The dialogue was awkward and didn’t seem like two men would sound.
Daniel at one point admitted that he felt stuck in time at 16, which may be the most believable thing about this book. He really read as a child to me. Not someone in the Navy. Not a 26 year old man. A child. His family was confusingly portrayed as evil and extremely bigoted but then portrayed as silly and fun, fun, fun. Once Daniel found out Colin was an ex-porn star that is all he wanted to talk about. It was so awkward. All the sex conversations were.
Colin had major issues. I mean MAJOR. Like if this is really his life he needs serious help and the help he is getting now is not working. His issues were the entire book. His ex-porn career and his illness. That is it. I didn’t get any of it though but I was for sure tired of hearing about it. It was so depressing. I don’t understand where it came from, but his head was seriously messed up and again, he needs a huge intervention.
I am not a fan of how tattoos are portrayed in this book either.
Ugh.
I’m just going to leave it at that. This just was not for me. It was a painful read and it took me forever to finish it.
Of course I’ll read the next one.
April 19, 2017
I really love L.A. Witt's military themed romances. I adored Daniel, the shy Navy sailor who treats his virginity like a huge secret, being ashamed of not having made any sexual experiences despite being 26 years old.
Daniel meets Colin, a tattoo artist, in the local gym he and his Navy buddies frequent. Having dreamed of getting a tattoo himself for a long time, Daniel overcomes his shyness and befriends Colin, who is designing Daniel's first tattoo for him. However, Colin is also a very attractive - heavily tattooed - gay man, who might be the answer to end Daniel's virgin status.
The thing is, Colin comes with baggage of his own. And not just a little. From a to an and , Colin is not exactly the perfect guy for shy, inexperienced Daniel, but it doesn't take long before both guys engage in a friendship with benefits that might lead to much more.
I will say right away, this book shares almost EXACTLY the same theme as one of my all-time favorites in the m/m genre:
So, I was absolutely excited about the story. The downside is, told the story so much more convincing that I feel bad comparing both novels in the first place.
My main issue was Colin. He often came off as a smart-arse who lectured 26 year old Daniel like a 16 year old when it came to Sex. And sadly, Daniel kept asking silly questions too, setting himself up for a teacher/student interaction more often than not.
Unfortunately, both guys are shown pretty superficially in the story. We learn about what caused their main issues and we see them work through their main issues (mostly by having sex, I may add), but we never get to meet (or like) the actual persons. So who are Colin and Daniel? That question is never answered.
I also had a hard time with Colin advocating drug use, even letting Daniel know he knew where he could get drugs if he wanted. That's awful!
However, if I'll remember one thing about this story for sure: The sex was insanely hot and noteworthy.
3 stars!
Daniel meets Colin, a tattoo artist, in the local gym he and his Navy buddies frequent. Having dreamed of getting a tattoo himself for a long time, Daniel overcomes his shyness and befriends Colin, who is designing Daniel's first tattoo for him. However, Colin is also a very attractive - heavily tattooed - gay man, who might be the answer to end Daniel's virgin status.
The thing is, Colin comes with baggage of his own. And not just a little. From a to an and , Colin is not exactly the perfect guy for shy, inexperienced Daniel, but it doesn't take long before both guys engage in a friendship with benefits that might lead to much more.
I will say right away, this book shares almost EXACTLY the same theme as one of my all-time favorites in the m/m genre:
So, I was absolutely excited about the story. The downside is, told the story so much more convincing that I feel bad comparing both novels in the first place.
My main issue was Colin. He often came off as a smart-arse who lectured 26 year old Daniel like a 16 year old when it came to Sex. And sadly, Daniel kept asking silly questions too, setting himself up for a teacher/student interaction more often than not.
Unfortunately, both guys are shown pretty superficially in the story. We learn about what caused their main issues and we see them work through their main issues (mostly by having sex, I may add), but we never get to meet (or like) the actual persons. So who are Colin and Daniel? That question is never answered.
I also had a hard time with Colin advocating drug use, even letting Daniel know he knew where he could get drugs if he wanted. That's awful!
However, if I'll remember one thing about this story for sure: The sex was insanely hot and noteworthy.
3 stars!
June 26, 2019
Back Piece is the first book in L.A. Witt’s latest series Skin Deep Inc. This is the story of two men damaged and hiding from the world. Colin is a tattoo artist and the owner of Skin Deep Inc. His past has left him damaged in so many ways but he’s a fighter and with determination and a solid support system he takes one day at a time and struggles to keep himself together. Commitment’s not on the table for him because he’s not ready to share his past with anyone else.
Daniel Moore is 26 and joined the Navy to get away from his ultra conservative and controlling parents. Daniel’s been hiding who he is and what he wants his whole life. Raised by parents who loved Daniel not for who he was but who they believed him to be Daniel’s kept himself firmly ensconced in the closet, but one look at Collin when he sees him for the first time at the gym with his ripped body covered in tattoos gives Daniel the courage to finally start going after what he wants some tattoos of his own and a man to go with them.
I loved how the relationship between these two men developed. It wasn’t love at first sight, there was a definite attraction but neither of these men were looking for the ‘L’ word.
Colin likes big, strong military men like Daniel…and Daniel…well, Daniel likes muscles and tats. What starts as a business relationship when Daniel approaches him about his tattoos easily turns into more as Colin puts ink to skin. It’s during this first tattoo session that they begin to realize they also enjoy each others company and once again their relationship shifts to something more and they become friends and then friends with benefits when attraction becomes too strong to deny.
It’s during this time that Colin begins to open up and share his demons with Daniel. Colin’s issues aren’t the type that got away and he realizes that he needs…even wants to share this part of himself with Daniel. Neither man is willing to label their relationship but each acknowledges it’s importance in their own way.
I loved that Colin is both supportive and non-judgemental of Daniel’s reluctance to come out to his family, never pushing him to do what he is so obviously not ready for. He even spends a day with them as Daniel’s friend…his strictly platonic friend, and that Daniel shows him the same non-judgemental support when Colin opens up to him about his issues. The relationship between these two is so warm and positive and the author reflects this beautifully in how they share their passion for one another…it’s just hella’ hot…as in ‘turn on the cold shower’ hot.
For me one of the best parts of this book was when Daniel’s parents visited. As much as I wanted them to be…these people weren’t evil monsters or even abusive. They were just normal, average people who loved their kids and believed they were doing right by them. Sadly, they were also misguided and their idea of what the words ‘unconditional love’ meant had to many conditions tied to it. As a parent this of course was the part of the book that made my heart ache because there are too many Daniels out there in the world. Good kids who just want their parents to love and accept them for who they are rather than who their parents believe them to be or want them to be.
Ironically though it was Colin who really tugged at my heart. Colin had a good and loving family and they loved him for himself. For Colin it was the outside world that left him feeling broken and damaged, keeping him from seeing that he was a beautiful person inside and out. It’s not until Daniel that Colin feels like he’s found someone who sees him…not who they think him to be or want him to be but him…the Colin that is and likes what he sees…in fact loves what he sees.
As much as I loved the ending of this book it was part of the reason that this was a 4 star read for me and not 5. The ending in a lot of ways was so good, it was happy with a tiny expected touch of sad but unfortunately it was a little too abrupt as well. For me this would probably have easily been a 5 star read if the first part had been a tiny bit shorter and the ending had been a tiny bit longer, but, be that as it may at the end of it all ‘Back Piece’ was still an enjoyable story worth reading.
*******************
An ARC of ‘Back Piece’ was graciously provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Daniel Moore is 26 and joined the Navy to get away from his ultra conservative and controlling parents. Daniel’s been hiding who he is and what he wants his whole life. Raised by parents who loved Daniel not for who he was but who they believed him to be Daniel’s kept himself firmly ensconced in the closet, but one look at Collin when he sees him for the first time at the gym with his ripped body covered in tattoos gives Daniel the courage to finally start going after what he wants some tattoos of his own and a man to go with them.
I loved how the relationship between these two men developed. It wasn’t love at first sight, there was a definite attraction but neither of these men were looking for the ‘L’ word.
Colin likes big, strong military men like Daniel…and Daniel…well, Daniel likes muscles and tats. What starts as a business relationship when Daniel approaches him about his tattoos easily turns into more as Colin puts ink to skin. It’s during this first tattoo session that they begin to realize they also enjoy each others company and once again their relationship shifts to something more and they become friends and then friends with benefits when attraction becomes too strong to deny.
It’s during this time that Colin begins to open up and share his demons with Daniel. Colin’s issues aren’t the type that got away and he realizes that he needs…even wants to share this part of himself with Daniel. Neither man is willing to label their relationship but each acknowledges it’s importance in their own way.
I loved that Colin is both supportive and non-judgemental of Daniel’s reluctance to come out to his family, never pushing him to do what he is so obviously not ready for. He even spends a day with them as Daniel’s friend…his strictly platonic friend, and that Daniel shows him the same non-judgemental support when Colin opens up to him about his issues. The relationship between these two is so warm and positive and the author reflects this beautifully in how they share their passion for one another…it’s just hella’ hot…as in ‘turn on the cold shower’ hot.
For me one of the best parts of this book was when Daniel’s parents visited. As much as I wanted them to be…these people weren’t evil monsters or even abusive. They were just normal, average people who loved their kids and believed they were doing right by them. Sadly, they were also misguided and their idea of what the words ‘unconditional love’ meant had to many conditions tied to it. As a parent this of course was the part of the book that made my heart ache because there are too many Daniels out there in the world. Good kids who just want their parents to love and accept them for who they are rather than who their parents believe them to be or want them to be.
Ironically though it was Colin who really tugged at my heart. Colin had a good and loving family and they loved him for himself. For Colin it was the outside world that left him feeling broken and damaged, keeping him from seeing that he was a beautiful person inside and out. It’s not until Daniel that Colin feels like he’s found someone who sees him…not who they think him to be or want him to be but him…the Colin that is and likes what he sees…in fact loves what he sees.
As much as I loved the ending of this book it was part of the reason that this was a 4 star read for me and not 5. The ending in a lot of ways was so good, it was happy with a tiny expected touch of sad but unfortunately it was a little too abrupt as well. For me this would probably have easily been a 5 star read if the first part had been a tiny bit shorter and the ending had been a tiny bit longer, but, be that as it may at the end of it all ‘Back Piece’ was still an enjoyable story worth reading.
*******************
An ARC of ‘Back Piece’ was graciously provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2017
3.5 stars
I truly enjoyed this book, so I hated to have to take off half a star when I really do feel like this deserves 4 full stars.
But it felt like there was something missing from this story that I, personally, rarely get from L.A. Witt stories. Not only did the sex rarely simmer and make me feel something (I was like, what, no this feels perfunctory and Witt's sex scenes never feel that way, AND it was sex scenes with a virgin, someone who has never experienced it before and was very eager, and yet I didn't FEEL anything with a lot of the scenes) but it didn't feel like a lot happened.
I know for a fact Witt can take two "ordinary" people in the "ordinary" world and make a hell of an interesting story - but there just wasn't a lot happening with this story outside the romance. And believe you, me, generally all I want is the romance, or actually, I want to get to the romance in romance novels and want to get past the friend scenes or family scenes a lot of the time...but really, those type of scenes help set up characters outside of the two MC's, and Witt has done it before, but kinda fell short in this one. I liked the other secondary characters, but they didn't feel very present throughout the book, kinda in the periphery. And while part of me loved that, a part of me was frustrated because then we got a scene around 75% of Shane spouting, what to me, felt like bullshit about Daniel (who hadn't even met yet), I didn't quite understand his motivation. Yeah, he cares for his brother a lot and wants to protect him, but...it didn't feel like that to me. Idk, it pissed me off.
Anyway, I just feel like the secondary characters could have been a little more present, and then they would have felt a little more rounded and like full characters.
But overall, aside from these little annoyances, I did enjoy this. I did really like Colin and Daniel together, and Colin was so sweet to Daniel - they were sweet to each other. And I loved the complexity of both their characters, how they weren't able to get over sucky emotions and thoughts that ate away them easily - because as much as we tell ourselves we're gonna do better or be better or love ourselves, it's a lot harder than it seems. And those thoughts always creep in, no matter how much you don't let them consume you. Colin is always going to have those demons eating away at him, but he doesn't let them take over him like he had before (even though he came close several times in this book. It just showed how human he is )
I also did find a few of the sex scenes hot (like at the end and this scene of them in a motel...DAmN. You just gotta read it).
And the ending was both a happy ending and happy-for-now. They're in a good place, but it is also pretty clear, hey, we're getting a second book, and it will probably focus on these two (and if not, then that ending will become a "that's it?" more than a "okay, just gotta wait for more" ending.)
I do think this is worth a read, because it IS enjoyable for the most part. I just think...don't expect anything amazing and "not able to put it down" worthy about this book. Enjoyable and engaging, but not up to Witt's usual standard, I think.
I truly enjoyed this book, so I hated to have to take off half a star when I really do feel like this deserves 4 full stars.
But it felt like there was something missing from this story that I, personally, rarely get from L.A. Witt stories. Not only did the sex rarely simmer and make me feel something (I was like, what, no this feels perfunctory and Witt's sex scenes never feel that way, AND it was sex scenes with a virgin, someone who has never experienced it before and was very eager, and yet I didn't FEEL anything with a lot of the scenes) but it didn't feel like a lot happened.
I know for a fact Witt can take two "ordinary" people in the "ordinary" world and make a hell of an interesting story - but there just wasn't a lot happening with this story outside the romance. And believe you, me, generally all I want is the romance, or actually, I want to get to the romance in romance novels and want to get past the friend scenes or family scenes a lot of the time...but really, those type of scenes help set up characters outside of the two MC's, and Witt has done it before, but kinda fell short in this one. I liked the other secondary characters, but they didn't feel very present throughout the book, kinda in the periphery. And while part of me loved that, a part of me was frustrated because then we got a scene around 75% of Shane spouting, what to me, felt like bullshit about Daniel (who hadn't even met yet), I didn't quite understand his motivation. Yeah, he cares for his brother a lot and wants to protect him, but...it didn't feel like that to me. Idk, it pissed me off.
Anyway, I just feel like the secondary characters could have been a little more present, and then they would have felt a little more rounded and like full characters.
But overall, aside from these little annoyances, I did enjoy this. I did really like Colin and Daniel together, and Colin was so sweet to Daniel - they were sweet to each other. And I loved the complexity of both their characters, how they weren't able to get over sucky emotions and thoughts that ate away them easily - because as much as we tell ourselves we're gonna do better or be better or love ourselves, it's a lot harder than it seems. And those thoughts always creep in, no matter how much you don't let them consume you. Colin is always going to have those demons eating away at him, but he doesn't let them take over him like he had before (even though he came close several times in this book. It just showed how human he is )
I also did find a few of the sex scenes hot (like at the end and this scene of them in a motel...DAmN. You just gotta read it).
And the ending was both a happy ending and happy-for-now. They're in a good place, but it is also pretty clear, hey, we're getting a second book, and it will probably focus on these two (and if not, then that ending will become a "that's it?" more than a "okay, just gotta wait for more" ending.)
I do think this is worth a read, because it IS enjoyable for the most part. I just think...don't expect anything amazing and "not able to put it down" worthy about this book. Enjoyable and engaging, but not up to Witt's usual standard, I think.
May 5, 2017
4 Stars
In the past this author is has been hit or miss with me, after reading the description I was really hoping I would be able to fall into this story, and in the end I really did enjoy it.
It is always so refreshing to read a book with two less than perfect main characters, both of which are easy to love! So often in reading, we find one MC is perfect and the other has these incredible struggles they have to overcome to find themselves worthy of love. In this book we find two real people that have both had things happen, much as we all do in life, to cause serious issues which have deeply impacted their lives.
I love a story where we can experience big "firsts" right along with our characters, in this case 26yr old Daniel had been holding back on having any kind of relationship. He was raised in a extremely religious family that was so homophobic they would often picket Pride events. Daniel's fear of his sexual orientation being found out and then losing his family, kept him from having any kind of sexual experiences when he was a teen. Once he had joined the military and left home, he was embarrassed because of the lack of experience, this fear had held him back from any kind of relationship, until he meets a beautiful tattoo artist.
Colin is in top physical shape, he is covered in gorgeous tattoos and from the outside appears to be just about perfect. Inside he is struggling with some pretty big demons, some stemming from an emotionally abusive ex and rest coming from mental health issues. To say he's lived a colorful life is an understatement, having been in porn years before he is the complete opposite of Daniel in the sex department.
I will say, the sex here was not only hot, it had a lot of emotions and feelings wrapped up in it. Don't get me wrong, it was very steamy but I personally felt like it was more..these two were really connecting on a bigger scale.
Both of these characters had huge personal issues that they had to struggle to work their way through if they had any hopes of building a lasting relationship. For Daniel he had to decide if having his family in his life was worth not being his true self.
"He was living in two worlds. In one, he had the family who’d loved him all his life, but he had to lie about who he was. In the other, he didn’t have to hide anymore"
Colin had to accept himself, turn off the negative voices, and trust he was good enough for not only Daniel, but for himself.
For me the biggest problem was the drop off ending, I would have liked to see what happened when they settled into loving each other. It felt very abrupt, which as a reader after investing in a couple, leaves you feeling a bit gypped at the end.
~ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review~
In the past this author is has been hit or miss with me, after reading the description I was really hoping I would be able to fall into this story, and in the end I really did enjoy it.
It is always so refreshing to read a book with two less than perfect main characters, both of which are easy to love! So often in reading, we find one MC is perfect and the other has these incredible struggles they have to overcome to find themselves worthy of love. In this book we find two real people that have both had things happen, much as we all do in life, to cause serious issues which have deeply impacted their lives.
I love a story where we can experience big "firsts" right along with our characters, in this case 26yr old Daniel had been holding back on having any kind of relationship. He was raised in a extremely religious family that was so homophobic they would often picket Pride events. Daniel's fear of his sexual orientation being found out and then losing his family, kept him from having any kind of sexual experiences when he was a teen. Once he had joined the military and left home, he was embarrassed because of the lack of experience, this fear had held him back from any kind of relationship, until he meets a beautiful tattoo artist.
Colin is in top physical shape, he is covered in gorgeous tattoos and from the outside appears to be just about perfect. Inside he is struggling with some pretty big demons, some stemming from an emotionally abusive ex and rest coming from mental health issues. To say he's lived a colorful life is an understatement, having been in porn years before he is the complete opposite of Daniel in the sex department.
I will say, the sex here was not only hot, it had a lot of emotions and feelings wrapped up in it. Don't get me wrong, it was very steamy but I personally felt like it was more..these two were really connecting on a bigger scale.
Both of these characters had huge personal issues that they had to struggle to work their way through if they had any hopes of building a lasting relationship. For Daniel he had to decide if having his family in his life was worth not being his true self.
"He was living in two worlds. In one, he had the family who’d loved him all his life, but he had to lie about who he was. In the other, he didn’t have to hide anymore"
Colin had to accept himself, turn off the negative voices, and trust he was good enough for not only Daniel, but for himself.
For me the biggest problem was the drop off ending, I would have liked to see what happened when they settled into loving each other. It felt very abrupt, which as a reader after investing in a couple, leaves you feeling a bit gypped at the end.
~ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review~
September 16, 2017
This book gave me many feels, some of them very good, a couple not as good, but overall it weighed out on the side of being a great read.
I loved both Colin and Daniel, I liked how each of their special hang ups were dealt with and I absolutely loved that there was no magic dick cure just because they fell in love.
I also liked that Daniel's family weren't portrayed as one dimensional homophobic religious bigots but as complete and complex people and how Daniel could love them at the same time as hate them for their views.
Throughout their visit I could feel the weight of the pressure on my shoulders, something LA Witt is excellent at writing.
Something else she's great at writing are sex scenes, and the steam level is high in this one with some stupendous virgin sex.
The angst levels were moderate. I'd guessed what Colin's background was going to be before it was revealed and, while it was a big part of his , it was never treated lightly but was explained and explored in the context of his
World building was great and, as this is book one in a new series, I'm looking forward to seeing what's coming next.
Oh, and that cover, yeah that could have stars all on its own, so hot.
#ARC kindly provided by the publishers through NetGalley in return for an unbiased and honest review.
I loved both Colin and Daniel, I liked how each of their special hang ups were dealt with and I absolutely loved that there was no magic dick cure just because they fell in love.
I also liked that Daniel's family weren't portrayed as one dimensional homophobic religious bigots but as complete and complex people and how Daniel could love them at the same time as hate them for their views.
Throughout their visit I could feel the weight of the pressure on my shoulders, something LA Witt is excellent at writing.
Something else she's great at writing are sex scenes, and the steam level is high in this one with some stupendous virgin sex.
The angst levels were moderate. I'd guessed what Colin's background was going to be before it was revealed and, while it was a big part of his , it was never treated lightly but was explained and explored in the context of his
World building was great and, as this is book one in a new series, I'm looking forward to seeing what's coming next.
Oh, and that cover, yeah that could have stars all on its own, so hot.
#ARC kindly provided by the publishers through NetGalley in return for an unbiased and honest review.
April 26, 2017
In this new book by LA Witt, a tattoo artist with some baggage, and an inexperienced Navy man, guilty about his sexuality because of the way he's been raised, cross paths in life, connecting two complete different worlds and personalities.
At first, everything is sex between them, mostly because of Colin and his "I don't do relationships". Daniel's naivety and inexperience makes him go with the flow, following Colin's lead
And when they start to have sex so early in the story I thought "oh no, please, not too many gratuitous sex scenes , don't make me skip pages and drop stars, please, please..." But fortunately, my concern was unfounded. There is too much sex, that's true, but I started developing some kind of closeness with the couple while something was growing between them.
I liked that the characters were pretty real and imperfect. Daniel lived in an oppressive environment that made him the man he is today.
Colin is more laid-back coming from a modern and understanding family that supports him and his decisions. Both share their experiences and start new ones together.
In a way, Colin fix Daniel since the conviction that he is definitely gay comes with Colin.
Not that there was something wrong in Daniel that needed fixing, of course not, but I'm talking metaphorically here and, in a sense,the 'fixing' goes further, with the execution of his myth back tattoo. With the ink Daniel confronts years of doubts and fears. Colin practically ink him hope and independence. And I loved this idea (maybe it is just my idea, but I love it anyway) because the ink hurts Daniel, he is suffering while getting tattooed, but he is doing it to free himself... Or maybe, just maybe, this whole metaphorical thing was in my mind... And I am the only one thinking it was pretty cool.
"For the first time in my life, I could be gay and nobody could punish me for it"
Daniel is sweet, naive, and pretty normal keeping in mind the way he'd been raised.
Colin is a very interesting guy. I love the way he expresses himself, the way he talks about porn and tattoos, for instance. I was very drawn to his stories and how he told them. He is natural. He is damaged but pretty conscious of that. He faces his demons knowing sometimes they win. And, here comes the GREAT thing Daniel does for Colin: he UNDERSTANDS him without judging.
Another thing I liked about Colin that made me love the character more is that, even if he is struggling with his problems, he seems calm and transmitted this calm and acceptance to me, something paradoxical since we know he is not ok in the inside.
I also liked Daniel. It could seem like I don't, but I really do. It's just that I had problems sympathizing with him in the 'family field'. I don't understand (and lately I think a lot about it) how is possible to love someone who hates who and what you are. How is possible to still try to make your parents happy when they think about you as a sick person. I know family is family and all that (I am a mother and a daughter myself) but, come on, I'm not talking here about support, not even approval, just letting someone be.
I hate toxic families.
That said, I truly liked Daniel and maybe I have to be more understanding because he really is terrified and frightened, and his fear comes from the way he has been raised, so it has to be difficult to come to terms with who you are, when all your life your family told you it's wrong.
I haven't read anything by L.A Witt since I read "Rules of Engagement", my first M/M book ever. It changed my life (or, at least, my readings) so I started "Back Piece" with fear, not knowing how it was going to work for me, since the expectations were high. And I liked it, I really enjoyed it but, sadly, didn't love it the way I wanted, and I'm sure it was for the reason above. Compete with your first (and great) MM read is not easy, but no doubt I'll be reading this author again asap. I missed an epilogue though.
Review posted on:Reviews for Book Lovers
**An advanced reading copy of this book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley"
At first, everything is sex between them, mostly because of Colin and his "I don't do relationships". Daniel's naivety and inexperience makes him go with the flow, following Colin's lead
And when they start to have sex so early in the story I thought "oh no, please, not too many gratuitous sex scenes , don't make me skip pages and drop stars, please, please..." But fortunately, my concern was unfounded. There is too much sex, that's true, but I started developing some kind of closeness with the couple while something was growing between them.
I liked that the characters were pretty real and imperfect. Daniel lived in an oppressive environment that made him the man he is today.
Colin is more laid-back coming from a modern and understanding family that supports him and his decisions. Both share their experiences and start new ones together.
In a way, Colin fix Daniel since the conviction that he is definitely gay comes with Colin.
Not that there was something wrong in Daniel that needed fixing, of course not, but I'm talking metaphorically here and, in a sense,the 'fixing' goes further, with the execution of his myth back tattoo. With the ink Daniel confronts years of doubts and fears. Colin practically ink him hope and independence. And I loved this idea (maybe it is just my idea, but I love it anyway) because the ink hurts Daniel, he is suffering while getting tattooed, but he is doing it to free himself... Or maybe, just maybe, this whole metaphorical thing was in my mind... And I am the only one thinking it was pretty cool.
"For the first time in my life, I could be gay and nobody could punish me for it"
Daniel is sweet, naive, and pretty normal keeping in mind the way he'd been raised.
Colin is a very interesting guy. I love the way he expresses himself, the way he talks about porn and tattoos, for instance. I was very drawn to his stories and how he told them. He is natural. He is damaged but pretty conscious of that. He faces his demons knowing sometimes they win. And, here comes the GREAT thing Daniel does for Colin: he UNDERSTANDS him without judging.
Another thing I liked about Colin that made me love the character more is that, even if he is struggling with his problems, he seems calm and transmitted this calm and acceptance to me, something paradoxical since we know he is not ok in the inside.
I also liked Daniel. It could seem like I don't, but I really do. It's just that I had problems sympathizing with him in the 'family field'. I don't understand (and lately I think a lot about it) how is possible to love someone who hates who and what you are. How is possible to still try to make your parents happy when they think about you as a sick person. I know family is family and all that (I am a mother and a daughter myself) but, come on, I'm not talking here about support, not even approval, just letting someone be.
I hate toxic families.
That said, I truly liked Daniel and maybe I have to be more understanding because he really is terrified and frightened, and his fear comes from the way he has been raised, so it has to be difficult to come to terms with who you are, when all your life your family told you it's wrong.
I haven't read anything by L.A Witt since I read "Rules of Engagement", my first M/M book ever. It changed my life (or, at least, my readings) so I started "Back Piece" with fear, not knowing how it was going to work for me, since the expectations were high. And I liked it, I really enjoyed it but, sadly, didn't love it the way I wanted, and I'm sure it was for the reason above. Compete with your first (and great) MM read is not easy, but no doubt I'll be reading this author again asap. I missed an epilogue though.
Review posted on:Reviews for Book Lovers
**An advanced reading copy of this book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley"
May 29, 2017
3.5 stars. happy for now ending
July 30, 2019
4.25 Stars
LOVED the sex-work positivity, and OMG virgin sex that wasn't perfect.
LOVED the sex-work positivity, and OMG virgin sex that wasn't perfect.
April 18, 2017
Daniel grew up in an uber conservative family (protesting Pride parades while yelling Bible verses about burning in hell) and escapes by joining the Navy. Colin came out at fifteen, had a close relationship with his family and now is a tattoo artist. They meet at the gym and are instantly attracted to one another - Colin with his gorgeous tats and Daniel with his gorgeous Navy-honed body.
The time Daniel spends with Colin as he first does a pec tattoo and then starts work on a huge full back piece give the two men time to get to know each other and accept one another. There are plenty of very steamy sex scenes but always with a foundation of absolute trust between the two men and what begins as a friends-with-benefits situation quickly turns into something deeper and more meaningful.
On the surface, Colin is pretty solid. But he's got issues ... Daniel has a lot on his plate as well. Daniel loves his parents, knowing they'll never be able to accept him as a gay man, and Witt writes beautifully about the nuances of his struggle in coming out to them.
At times the pace of this book feels very slow as there are many long tattoo sessions (and lots of detail about tattooing and aftercare) followed by amazing hot steamy sex, more tattooing, more internal dialogues, more tats, more sex, each man rehashes their struggles and insecurities perhaps a time or two too many without any meaningful resolution, etc. At over 300 pages, the book felt somewhat bloated IMHO. There isn't a lot of plot other than the talk, the tats and sex and while Daniel and Colin get their HFN ending, it seems abrupt and leaves them still working on many of the same issues. 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from Swerve via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review..
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
The time Daniel spends with Colin as he first does a pec tattoo and then starts work on a huge full back piece give the two men time to get to know each other and accept one another. There are plenty of very steamy sex scenes but always with a foundation of absolute trust between the two men and what begins as a friends-with-benefits situation quickly turns into something deeper and more meaningful.
On the surface, Colin is pretty solid. But he's got issues ... Daniel has a lot on his plate as well. Daniel loves his parents, knowing they'll never be able to accept him as a gay man, and Witt writes beautifully about the nuances of his struggle in coming out to them.
At times the pace of this book feels very slow as there are many long tattoo sessions (and lots of detail about tattooing and aftercare) followed by amazing hot steamy sex, more tattooing, more internal dialogues, more tats, more sex, each man rehashes their struggles and insecurities perhaps a time or two too many without any meaningful resolution, etc. At over 300 pages, the book felt somewhat bloated IMHO. There isn't a lot of plot other than the talk, the tats and sex and while Daniel and Colin get their HFN ending, it seems abrupt and leaves them still working on many of the same issues. 3.5 stars.
I received an ARC from Swerve via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review..
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
April 8, 2020
This story gives us Colin, a tattoo artist whose past left him with an eating disorder he works every day to keep under control. And Daniel, a sweet, shy, Navy technician who is trying to finally assert himself as a gay man, out from under the shadow of his homophobic family. They meet at the gym, and Daniel decides this is the guy he's going to finally try out flirting on, and maybe more.
Colin's body image is a constant source of stress, and having a cute young guy like Daniel interested is a morale boost. But Daniel blows hot and cold, and Colin's left trying to figure out what he did wrong. Luckily, a tattoo is another thing Daniel has promised himself, away from his parents' eyes. So there's a natural reason to meet Colin again, and this time he's not going to chicken out.
I liked the realism of the eating disorder portrayed in this story. Colin has great support in his life, and he still sometimes goes off the rails. It's something he manages, not something he expects to cure.
Daniel is cute as the gay virgin eager for his first time, but embarrassed at his own inexperience. The sex is hot and sweet, and progresses plausibly. The guys talk, a lot, in a way that's pretty mature, but occasionally feels a bit too easy and informative for the setting. And they don't do a lot together on page, other than sex, so it's hard to get a feel for they dynamics of their relationship out of bed. In the bedroom, they are a great match, each bringing something the other needs.
The plot is pretty simple, and the story ends a bit abruptly with a HFN, with some of the real challenges of dating an active-duty serviceman (and interacting with Daniel's family) yet to come. I did believe these two might stay together, though, since they both were clearly willing to work on a relationship. An epilogue would have been cool, but the ending was solid enough.
The issues of body image and eating disorders in men are often swept under the rug. There are a few M/M stories that tackle that, and it was good to read another that has a realistic and emotional but not angsty approach.
Colin's body image is a constant source of stress, and having a cute young guy like Daniel interested is a morale boost. But Daniel blows hot and cold, and Colin's left trying to figure out what he did wrong. Luckily, a tattoo is another thing Daniel has promised himself, away from his parents' eyes. So there's a natural reason to meet Colin again, and this time he's not going to chicken out.
I liked the realism of the eating disorder portrayed in this story. Colin has great support in his life, and he still sometimes goes off the rails. It's something he manages, not something he expects to cure.
Daniel is cute as the gay virgin eager for his first time, but embarrassed at his own inexperience. The sex is hot and sweet, and progresses plausibly. The guys talk, a lot, in a way that's pretty mature, but occasionally feels a bit too easy and informative for the setting. And they don't do a lot together on page, other than sex, so it's hard to get a feel for they dynamics of their relationship out of bed. In the bedroom, they are a great match, each bringing something the other needs.
The plot is pretty simple, and the story ends a bit abruptly with a HFN, with some of the real challenges of dating an active-duty serviceman (and interacting with Daniel's family) yet to come. I did believe these two might stay together, though, since they both were clearly willing to work on a relationship. An epilogue would have been cool, but the ending was solid enough.
The issues of body image and eating disorders in men are often swept under the rug. There are a few M/M stories that tackle that, and it was good to read another that has a realistic and emotional but not angsty approach.
April 25, 2017
4.5 Stars
I am a fan of L.A. Witt’s work, but I rarely have the opportunity to review one of her books, here on the blog, so I was doing a little happy dance when I was offered Back Piece. I loved this coming out story of Daniel, a young Navy man from an extremely religious family, and Colin, an openly gay tattoo artist. Daniel and Colin both have issues and secrets they are dealing with, all of which I felt were well-handled and believable. Even though the men are on two different levels when it comes to relationships and sexual experience, both are thoughtful, caring people, who handle their relationship like adults. There is definitely some angst, but just the right amount, and for the right reasons. I loved the vulnerability of both characters, as well as their strength, and quiet confidence. Daniel’s fear of what coming out to his ultra-conservative parents would mean was exceptionally well-done. Ms. Witt gives a decision of that magnitude, especially in these circumstances, the respect and care it deserves. Being privy to Daniel’s inner thoughts and anguish over this decision made me stop and think about how devastating coming out can be for some people. Daniel’s parents aren’t stereotypes, but rather, good people who love their son (albeit, homophobic). People are rarely all bad, and the realistic portrayal of his family worked so much better, and made Daniel’s anguish and decision that much more difficult and emotional. Colin has his own serious issues. I’m not going to spoil anything, but I will say I appreciated his unique situation, his support system, and the opportunity for a different perspective. Although Back Piece deals with several serious and complex issues, it’s still a romance and the growing relationship between these two very different men was fun, super hot, and very emotional.
ARC provided for a voluntary review.
I am a fan of L.A. Witt’s work, but I rarely have the opportunity to review one of her books, here on the blog, so I was doing a little happy dance when I was offered Back Piece. I loved this coming out story of Daniel, a young Navy man from an extremely religious family, and Colin, an openly gay tattoo artist. Daniel and Colin both have issues and secrets they are dealing with, all of which I felt were well-handled and believable. Even though the men are on two different levels when it comes to relationships and sexual experience, both are thoughtful, caring people, who handle their relationship like adults. There is definitely some angst, but just the right amount, and for the right reasons. I loved the vulnerability of both characters, as well as their strength, and quiet confidence. Daniel’s fear of what coming out to his ultra-conservative parents would mean was exceptionally well-done. Ms. Witt gives a decision of that magnitude, especially in these circumstances, the respect and care it deserves. Being privy to Daniel’s inner thoughts and anguish over this decision made me stop and think about how devastating coming out can be for some people. Daniel’s parents aren’t stereotypes, but rather, good people who love their son (albeit, homophobic). People are rarely all bad, and the realistic portrayal of his family worked so much better, and made Daniel’s anguish and decision that much more difficult and emotional. Colin has his own serious issues. I’m not going to spoil anything, but I will say I appreciated his unique situation, his support system, and the opportunity for a different perspective. Although Back Piece deals with several serious and complex issues, it’s still a romance and the growing relationship between these two very different men was fun, super hot, and very emotional.
ARC provided for a voluntary review.
April 1, 2024
As a huge, huge fan of L.A. Witt, I’m never surprised that I am most always more than happy with what she writes. I have to say that this one was no exception....and it was a "bonus", (didn't count against my borrows for the month), on Hoopla.
I liked this story but hated Daniels parents with a passion...but I was SUPPOSED to...so mission accomplished, Ms. Witt. It kept me interested, I read it in a day...and the two main characters, Colin and Daniel were absolutely perfect. But... the internal and emotional dialogue with both characters was simply exhausting. Daniel could have saved himself so much torment and uncertainty if he had just manned up and spoken to his parents. He was 26 years old...what were they going to do ground him? Our Colin had a troubled past, but he’d overcome a lot to get to where he is today. He owns his own business, Skin Deep. a tattoo place, he's physically healthy and relatively happy for the most part.
When he and Daniel spot each other for the first time at the gym it’s an instant attraction, when they meet later the attraction ignites and it proves to be impossible for either man to ignore. Daniel is stationed in Virginis and of course that means Navy. He’s found acceptance in the Navy, and he loves finally being able to live his life "out and proud"...but it only was when he was away from his terrible, creepy, nasty, homophobic family. Get the idea that I didn't like them? Colin seems like the perfect person to be with...and to fall in love with. The attraction is insane and intense and the feelings that follow leave both men with questions. The only thing they know is they want more of it. Things of course come to a head when Daniel’s family visits him and he goes right back in the closet and slams and bolts the door.
What surprised me was that he expected Colin to share that closet with him. All of Colin’s personal issues that have been simmering at the surface explode and leave both men at odds. Angsty to the max, and incredibly repetitive, but this book had a saving grace and that was that L.A. Witt had written two incredible, easy to love, main characters. Daniel and Colin are so solid and so well developed. The passion, openness and acceptance were nothing short of beautiful. I loved the story and I thank Hoopla for the "extra one".
I liked this story but hated Daniels parents with a passion...but I was SUPPOSED to...so mission accomplished, Ms. Witt. It kept me interested, I read it in a day...and the two main characters, Colin and Daniel were absolutely perfect. But... the internal and emotional dialogue with both characters was simply exhausting. Daniel could have saved himself so much torment and uncertainty if he had just manned up and spoken to his parents. He was 26 years old...what were they going to do ground him? Our Colin had a troubled past, but he’d overcome a lot to get to where he is today. He owns his own business, Skin Deep. a tattoo place, he's physically healthy and relatively happy for the most part.
When he and Daniel spot each other for the first time at the gym it’s an instant attraction, when they meet later the attraction ignites and it proves to be impossible for either man to ignore. Daniel is stationed in Virginis and of course that means Navy. He’s found acceptance in the Navy, and he loves finally being able to live his life "out and proud"...but it only was when he was away from his terrible, creepy, nasty, homophobic family. Get the idea that I didn't like them? Colin seems like the perfect person to be with...and to fall in love with. The attraction is insane and intense and the feelings that follow leave both men with questions. The only thing they know is they want more of it. Things of course come to a head when Daniel’s family visits him and he goes right back in the closet and slams and bolts the door.
What surprised me was that he expected Colin to share that closet with him. All of Colin’s personal issues that have been simmering at the surface explode and leave both men at odds. Angsty to the max, and incredibly repetitive, but this book had a saving grace and that was that L.A. Witt had written two incredible, easy to love, main characters. Daniel and Colin are so solid and so well developed. The passion, openness and acceptance were nothing short of beautiful. I loved the story and I thank Hoopla for the "extra one".
April 12, 2017
If you are someone contemplating getting a tattoo for the first time, you might reconsider reading this book before you do the deed. This story gives a lot of details on the tattoo procedure and reading about Daniel, six foot something, military hunk basically gritting his teeth and nearly tap out is making me reconsider.
Colin is the tattoo artist with a lot of personal issue. Mainly to do with insecurities and self consciousness. But from just looking at him, you wouldn't know he dealt with so much inner trauma. He look badass and hot!
Daniel is sexually inexperience and luck has it that the hottest guy in the gym is reciprocating his interest. He is totally adorable and seeing him coming to term with his sexuality and experiencing pleasure for the first time is simply exquisite.
There are so much details into their foreplay and sex scenes. Initially I find it titillating and couldn't help but fan myself, but after awhile, it gets repetitive. I swore this is one of those odd romance book whereby I feel there are too much sex until I sorta skim some pages. I feel so guilty.
Anyway, both characters are totally likable and pretty laid back. They both also have a pile of baggage with them. Colin with his issue and Daniel with his homophobic parents. I like that both of them communicate really well. They are constantly having in depth conversation and sharing about their dreams and fears.
The thing that I find lacking in the story is the actual action to deal with the issue presented. Take for example Colin's situation, it was mentioned and discussed, but I don't see Daniel doing anything about it. I wish that part was more developed and able to see how Daniel help Colin improve on his well being. The ending was rather abrupt, which sorta left me hanging there. I want to see more resolution in regards to Daniel's family, but I'm sure we get to catch up with Colin and Daniel's in the next book seeing as this is a new series.
Colin is the tattoo artist with a lot of personal issue. Mainly to do with insecurities and self consciousness. But from just looking at him, you wouldn't know he dealt with so much inner trauma. He look badass and hot!
Daniel is sexually inexperience and luck has it that the hottest guy in the gym is reciprocating his interest. He is totally adorable and seeing him coming to term with his sexuality and experiencing pleasure for the first time is simply exquisite.
There are so much details into their foreplay and sex scenes. Initially I find it titillating and couldn't help but fan myself, but after awhile, it gets repetitive. I swore this is one of those odd romance book whereby I feel there are too much sex until I sorta skim some pages. I feel so guilty.
Anyway, both characters are totally likable and pretty laid back. They both also have a pile of baggage with them. Colin with his issue and Daniel with his homophobic parents. I like that both of them communicate really well. They are constantly having in depth conversation and sharing about their dreams and fears.
The thing that I find lacking in the story is the actual action to deal with the issue presented. Take for example Colin's situation, it was mentioned and discussed, but I don't see Daniel doing anything about it. I wish that part was more developed and able to see how Daniel help Colin improve on his well being. The ending was rather abrupt, which sorta left me hanging there. I want to see more resolution in regards to Daniel's family, but I'm sure we get to catch up with Colin and Daniel's in the next book seeing as this is a new series.
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March 3, 2017April 25th :D
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February 2, 2019
Nice, but 'Back Piece' struggled to keep me engaged on an emotional level.
I've been trying to figure out why I didn't like this book more when it quite bravely takes on sensitive topics such as 'late' sexual debut, male eating disorder and coming out to strongly anti-gay parents. In spite of all those important issues, the story felt shallow—it almost exclusively focused on wanting sex, having sex and thinking about the sex they had. Exchange the word 'sex' with 'tattoo' and you'll have the two ingredients that makes up 80% of the content of the book.
Unfortunately the story wasn't the only thing which felt shallow—the characters weren't as layered as I like them to be either. Sure, the author made them gradually reveal their inner selves to the other (which was nicely done), but as a reader the characters' thoughts and actions were easily predictable and held no surprises. This lack of the unexpected as an element to drive the story forward was probably why I found this book occasionally boring.
Influencing my mediocre rating of 'Back Piece' is also the fact that LA Witt has written one of my all time favourite books; 'The Master Will Appear', forever causing my expectations to be high on any book of hers I pick up. Even though this book didn't touch me as deeply, I'm sure to read more Witt books in the future.
I've been trying to figure out why I didn't like this book more when it quite bravely takes on sensitive topics such as 'late' sexual debut, male eating disorder and coming out to strongly anti-gay parents. In spite of all those important issues, the story felt shallow—it almost exclusively focused on wanting sex, having sex and thinking about the sex they had. Exchange the word 'sex' with 'tattoo' and you'll have the two ingredients that makes up 80% of the content of the book.
Unfortunately the story wasn't the only thing which felt shallow—the characters weren't as layered as I like them to be either. Sure, the author made them gradually reveal their inner selves to the other (which was nicely done), but as a reader the characters' thoughts and actions were easily predictable and held no surprises. This lack of the unexpected as an element to drive the story forward was probably why I found this book occasionally boring.
Influencing my mediocre rating of 'Back Piece' is also the fact that LA Witt has written one of my all time favourite books; 'The Master Will Appear', forever causing my expectations to be high on any book of hers I pick up. Even though this book didn't touch me as deeply, I'm sure to read more Witt books in the future.
April 24, 2017
I'll make it short. I did finished it but....
Two not flawless guys....(which is a good concept) Colin a tattoo artist and Daniel a maritime soldier.
They meet in the tattoo shop where Daniel will take his first tattoo.
Daniel at 26 is out at work and far far in the closet with his heavy religious homophobic family. He is still a virgin. Colin is 31 out for sure. And when he understands Daniel has no experience at all....he takes all the time with him. So we can consume some hot encounters.
Colin very understanding and holding back his eating disorder. Luckily he has his own backup team standing right behind him.
Daniel is in my eyes very immature not only in sex but also in life. With everything he needs confirmation, it just felt uncomfortable.
Colin was just too understanding. The relationship felt out of balance. Even after all their problems were on the table it felt out of balance....not convincing....
The conversations about the tattoo work where too long, half way i skipped parts. It would have been better if the conversations were about how they really felt around each there. Those parts were in italics....more thinking than say it out loud.....There were more parts I skipped.
Sometimes I really felt the emotions but it was not a constant factor.
I did read 'Just Drive' and that was a very good one. Sorry to say this didn't reach that status.
Two not flawless guys....(which is a good concept) Colin a tattoo artist and Daniel a maritime soldier.
They meet in the tattoo shop where Daniel will take his first tattoo.
Daniel at 26 is out at work and far far in the closet with his heavy religious homophobic family. He is still a virgin. Colin is 31 out for sure. And when he understands Daniel has no experience at all....he takes all the time with him. So we can consume some hot encounters.
Colin very understanding and holding back his eating disorder. Luckily he has his own backup team standing right behind him.
Daniel is in my eyes very immature not only in sex but also in life. With everything he needs confirmation, it just felt uncomfortable.
Colin was just too understanding. The relationship felt out of balance. Even after all their problems were on the table it felt out of balance....not convincing....
The conversations about the tattoo work where too long, half way i skipped parts. It would have been better if the conversations were about how they really felt around each there. Those parts were in italics....more thinking than say it out loud.....There were more parts I skipped.
Sometimes I really felt the emotions but it was not a constant factor.
I did read 'Just Drive' and that was a very good one. Sorry to say this didn't reach that status.
September 22, 2017
3.5
This story had so much potential, we had two characters with very interesting backgrounds. but sadly it didn't delivered.
I don't know what it was, it just felt slow and it never picked up.
Even the separation part wasn't that dramatic.
I didn't hated it, I liked it enough to finish it but I'm definitely sad that it wasn't as good as it could've been.
The HFN ending left me wanting more, it happened too fast, given the length of the book a few pages a couple of months later would have been great.
This story had so much potential, we had two characters with very interesting backgrounds. but sadly it didn't delivered.
I don't know what it was, it just felt slow and it never picked up.
Even the separation part wasn't that dramatic.
I didn't hated it, I liked it enough to finish it but I'm definitely sad that it wasn't as good as it could've been.
The HFN ending left me wanting more, it happened too fast, given the length of the book a few pages a couple of months later would have been great.
August 31, 2018
• Fantastic mcs. I adored both Daniel and Colin's povs. There was never a moment when I wanted to skim someone's chapters. In fact, I often wanted more scenes from each of their povs.
• I think that the plot was a tad repetitive; cycling through sex scenes, dialogue and tattooing got old pretty fast.
• The fact this story focused on a man in his twenties coming to terms with his sexuality made me weep with joy; it was not only about coming out but also about first relationships and experiences.
• I am not sure how to feel about the eating disorder rep. I definitely need to do more research and find some #ownvoices reviews, if any exist.
• There was so much communications between mcs. Halle-freaking-lujah!
• ^Honestly, this made the story for me. I am sick of miscommunication in romances like this. Colin and Daniel’s openness about all aspects of their lives was everything, especially when they had honest conversations about sex and boundaries.
• The tattoo artistry subplot was also amazing, so authentic.
• I did feel like I needed a tad more from Colin’s backstory. His eating disorder and fitness addiction were not glossed over but I felt like it could have played a more on-page role too. In particular, I would appreciate having some of his therapy sessions on the page.
• More about Daniel’s naval experiences and how that affected him would have been nice too.
• Witt has an addictive writing style.
• I think that the plot was a tad repetitive; cycling through sex scenes, dialogue and tattooing got old pretty fast.
• The fact this story focused on a man in his twenties coming to terms with his sexuality made me weep with joy; it was not only about coming out but also about first relationships and experiences.
• I am not sure how to feel about the eating disorder rep. I definitely need to do more research and find some #ownvoices reviews, if any exist.
• There was so much communications between mcs. Halle-freaking-lujah!
• ^Honestly, this made the story for me. I am sick of miscommunication in romances like this. Colin and Daniel’s openness about all aspects of their lives was everything, especially when they had honest conversations about sex and boundaries.
• The tattoo artistry subplot was also amazing, so authentic.
• I did feel like I needed a tad more from Colin’s backstory. His eating disorder and fitness addiction were not glossed over but I felt like it could have played a more on-page role too. In particular, I would appreciate having some of his therapy sessions on the page.
• More about Daniel’s naval experiences and how that affected him would have been nice too.
• Witt has an addictive writing style.
August 13, 2017
3.5 stars!
My relationship with this book looked a bit like this:
I love imperfect and a bit flawed MCs and Colin and Daniel were exactly that - two "real people" with problems and family issues etc.
But Back Piece was also a bit too "wordy": on the one hand the communication between the MCs was great - they weren't too afraid or too embarrassed to reveal their biggest problems/fears. On the other hand, sometimes they talked too much in bed - it sounded more like a manual for gay virgins ;) Which, again, would be totally fine if it didn't take up a little bit too much of space/content. I'd prefer a less-talk-and-more-feel kind of relation between Daniel and Colin.
Otherwise? It was a really sweet story. Both MCs were nice guys that I think you'd like to be your friends in RL. They were open and sociable and HOT together too! ;)
And don't forget the aspect of tattooing! I liked this part of Back Piece very much! It felt genuine and I appreciated the description of the whole process - for such a muggle like me it was very enlightening ;)
My relationship with this book looked a bit like this:
I love imperfect and a bit flawed MCs and Colin and Daniel were exactly that - two "real people" with problems and family issues etc.
But Back Piece was also a bit too "wordy": on the one hand the communication between the MCs was great - they weren't too afraid or too embarrassed to reveal their biggest problems/fears. On the other hand, sometimes they talked too much in bed - it sounded more like a manual for gay virgins ;) Which, again, would be totally fine if it didn't take up a little bit too much of space/content. I'd prefer a less-talk-and-more-feel kind of relation between Daniel and Colin.
Otherwise? It was a really sweet story. Both MCs were nice guys that I think you'd like to be your friends in RL. They were open and sociable and HOT together too! ;)
And don't forget the aspect of tattooing! I liked this part of Back Piece very much! It felt genuine and I appreciated the description of the whole process - for such a muggle like me it was very enlightening ;)
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