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Exile Ink #3
Something Real
James McGowan has it all: a business on the verge of opening to great success, talent and sinful good looks, and a sweet and sexy woman who worships him almost as much as he worships her.
James and Cam are stronger than ever as the launch of Exile Ink, the tattoo studio they’ve built together, draws near. But their happiness is marred by another, much more dire event: the probation hearing for her mother’s killer. It’s hard to think about ink, art and forever when the man who caused Cam so much pain might soon be free.
With their future threatened, and Cam on the verge of breaking, James is determined to protect the woman he loves at all costs—even if it means taking justice into his own hands.
SOMETHING REAL is the third and final book in a trio of steamy novellas telling James and Cam's love story.
With a Skylar Hill book expect a touch of angst, a bit of sweetness and a lot of steaminess. Every novella--series or standalone--ends with the couple in a HEA or HFN....guaranteed!
The Exile Ink Series: James and Cam
SOMETHING NEW (Book 1)
SOMETHING RIGHT (Book 2)
SOMETHING REAL (Book 3)
James and Cam are stronger than ever as the launch of Exile Ink, the tattoo studio they’ve built together, draws near. But their happiness is marred by another, much more dire event: the probation hearing for her mother’s killer. It’s hard to think about ink, art and forever when the man who caused Cam so much pain might soon be free.
With their future threatened, and Cam on the verge of breaking, James is determined to protect the woman he loves at all costs—even if it means taking justice into his own hands.
SOMETHING REAL is the third and final book in a trio of steamy novellas telling James and Cam's love story.
With a Skylar Hill book expect a touch of angst, a bit of sweetness and a lot of steaminess. Every novella--series or standalone--ends with the couple in a HEA or HFN....guaranteed!
The Exile Ink Series: James and Cam
SOMETHING NEW (Book 1)
SOMETHING RIGHT (Book 2)
SOMETHING REAL (Book 3)
- GenresRomance
119 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2017
10 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Skylar Hill
17 books79 followersSkylar Hill writes steamy romance about once-in-a-lifetime love.
She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her very own lumberjack/soulmate. When she’s not writing, she’s hiking one of the trails around her beautiful city, or drinking chai lattes in a cafe and eating way too many cinnamon rolls. She has several tattoos…but in places only her husband gets to see!
She is currently hard at work on her next steamy novel.
If you'd like updates about Skylar's books, special sneak peeks, bonus scenes and some truly decadent hot cocoa recipes, sign up for her newsletter here: www.skylar-hill.com/freebook
She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her very own lumberjack/soulmate. When she’s not writing, she’s hiking one of the trails around her beautiful city, or drinking chai lattes in a cafe and eating way too many cinnamon rolls. She has several tattoos…but in places only her husband gets to see!
She is currently hard at work on her next steamy novel.
If you'd like updates about Skylar's books, special sneak peeks, bonus scenes and some truly decadent hot cocoa recipes, sign up for her newsletter here: www.skylar-hill.com/freebook
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 26, 2017
Fabulous. A great ending to the series. And I'm OVER THE MOON to know that the reason the relationship between Aiden and Lydia was only hinted at was because those two are going to get a trio of books all their own. HALLE-FLIPPING-LUJAH!
I Loved the conclusion of Cam and James' story although did feel just a bit cheated by
So the next in the Exile Ink series will be Aiden and Lydia but I feel something could be brewing with Tasha and Grant perhaps? And surely Evie will get her own story too, right? So excited to read more, Skylar Hill is quickly becoming a favorite of mine!
I Loved the conclusion of Cam and James' story although did feel just a bit cheated by
So the next in the Exile Ink series will be Aiden and Lydia but I feel something could be brewing with Tasha and Grant perhaps? And surely Evie will get her own story too, right? So excited to read more, Skylar Hill is quickly becoming a favorite of mine!
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June 4, 2017Recommend these novellas! Fun and set around a tattoo studio in Portland.
April 22, 2017
I freaking love this book, this trio is amazing! James and Cam's love story has hot sexy romance, suspense and strong protectiveness. All of this put together keeps you hanging on for what's next, I read it straight through couldn't put it down. it is well written in love all the characters and the imagery of thier world. I cannot wait for the next trio of Aidan and Lydia's story.
May 9, 2017
Wow-what a great ending to the series. This episode picks up exactly where #2 Something Right left off. James and Cam are an even stronger couple trying to have their HEA. We learn more about Cam's abusive childhood with the possibility of her father's parole. We also learn just how much James loves her and what he's willing to do to keep her and her sister safe. This was a most satisfying conclusion to their love story, make sure that you keep some Kleenex handy. The writing as usual is wonderfully passionate drawing the reader into the story, the alternating POV worked so well that there was seamless transitions between chapters. I truly LOVED this book and series and strongly recommend this to all mature readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for voluntary review consideration.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for voluntary review consideration.
July 29, 2017
This is the third book in the Exile Ink series from Skylar Hill. I really wanted to to read more about Aiden and Lydia from Just One Night but hopefully that will come next. Cam will do anything for her little sister, Evie including working for a prick that doesn't appreciate her talent. She's a very talented tattoo artist who specializes in watercolors but her boss always complains when she does them. Her BFF, Lydia (Just One Night) calls and tells her that her friend, Jay saw the tattoo Cam gave her and loved it and wants a consult with her. Cam is shocked when Jay turns out to be James McGowan, a well known tattoo artist that she's a big fan of. James is one of the most revered tattoo artists in the world. He has traveled all over the world and he even had a reality TV show for a while. He's moved back to his hometown of Portland to open up his own tattoo shop and be closer to his family. James knew Cam was special before he even met her as soon as he saw the beautiful tattoo she gave Lydia. The chemistry between them was explosive and they were amazing together. Cam and her sister Evie were both incredibly strong women that may have had a horrific childhood but they overcame it together. James was a sweetheart who wore his heart on his sleeve and he was perfect for Cam.
April 27, 2017
Ohmigod...what a fabulous ending to the Exile Ink series. Skylar Hill went all out in wrapping up the story of Cam and James as well as bringing James' dream of Exile Ink to life.
Definitely have tissues on hand. Emotions run high in this one, and the scenes at the Parole Hearing will gut you--I wept unashamedly at the abuse that Cam and Evie had suffered at the hands of their evil father. It will literally tear your heart out to realize that while this was a book--thousands of women and children are abused and killed by their spouses and fathers each year.
Don't miss out on one of the best books of 2017 so far. You definitely need to add this one to your library. 1-Click today! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and could not put it down. Simply an amazing read!) ❤️
Definitely have tissues on hand. Emotions run high in this one, and the scenes at the Parole Hearing will gut you--I wept unashamedly at the abuse that Cam and Evie had suffered at the hands of their evil father. It will literally tear your heart out to realize that while this was a book--thousands of women and children are abused and killed by their spouses and fathers each year.
Don't miss out on one of the best books of 2017 so far. You definitely need to add this one to your library. 1-Click today! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and could not put it down. Simply an amazing read!) ❤️
April 24, 2017
I really have fallen for this couple. James and Cam are perfect for each other. He has given her the love and support she needed to feel confident in her work and in being in a relationship. She has scars from her childhood that won't go away and her father is becoming a real threat again. He is up for parole and that scares them all.
There is a real sweetness to the story that balances out the pain. This final part of the story shows how deep their love is and how committed he is to keeping his new family safe. Cam is struggling but James continues to be her support system along with her sister and friends.
James is the kind of guy every woman would want in their life. He is fierce in his love and his passion for Cam. He would do anything to keep her safe. I like the scenes with his mom and his friend where he really opens up and reveals his devotion to Cam.
I really liked those new tattoo artists and am looking forward to reading their story.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
There is a real sweetness to the story that balances out the pain. This final part of the story shows how deep their love is and how committed he is to keeping his new family safe. Cam is struggling but James continues to be her support system along with her sister and friends.
James is the kind of guy every woman would want in their life. He is fierce in his love and his passion for Cam. He would do anything to keep her safe. I like the scenes with his mom and his friend where he really opens up and reveals his devotion to Cam.
I really liked those new tattoo artists and am looking forward to reading their story.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
April 24, 2017
An Ending Worth Waiting For
I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book, Something Real by Skylar Hill.
Something Real is book #3 of the Exile Ink Series. Something New is #1 and Something Right is #2.
All three are extraordinary books. Each deserves much higher than 5 ⭐️s. You do want to read them in order. There is also a prequel, Just One Night, also excellent.
The books are about James and Cam, two tattoo artists that meet through a mutual friend, Lydia, and are instantly attracted to each other. They begin a relationship but things are not easy for them. James has decided to make his dream a reality and open his own tattoo salon. And Cam has some pretty serious family obligations and issues from her and her sister, Evie's past to deal with. The grand opening of Exile Ink is very close, plus Cam and Evie's past is pounding on the door causing almost more stress than they all can handle. Will James and Cam be strong enough to deal with all their issues and use them to draw closer together and not further apart?
I'm not a fan of serials with "cliffhangers" but not only would I read these again, in a heartbeat, but I plan on reading the next trilogy in this series. Skylar Hill is one author I plan on following intently, watching for any and all new releases.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book, Something Real by Skylar Hill.
Something Real is book #3 of the Exile Ink Series. Something New is #1 and Something Right is #2.
All three are extraordinary books. Each deserves much higher than 5 ⭐️s. You do want to read them in order. There is also a prequel, Just One Night, also excellent.
The books are about James and Cam, two tattoo artists that meet through a mutual friend, Lydia, and are instantly attracted to each other. They begin a relationship but things are not easy for them. James has decided to make his dream a reality and open his own tattoo salon. And Cam has some pretty serious family obligations and issues from her and her sister, Evie's past to deal with. The grand opening of Exile Ink is very close, plus Cam and Evie's past is pounding on the door causing almost more stress than they all can handle. Will James and Cam be strong enough to deal with all their issues and use them to draw closer together and not further apart?
I'm not a fan of serials with "cliffhangers" but not only would I read these again, in a heartbeat, but I plan on reading the next trilogy in this series. Skylar Hill is one author I plan on following intently, watching for any and all new releases.
April 26, 2017
Exile Ink is very close to opening and the parole hearing is also close to happening. Cam and Evie are dealing with a lot of stress and James is frustrated because he’s very worried about Cam and the effect the hearing is having on her. Their life is terrific and the threat of Cam and Evie’s father getting paroled seems to be the only negative in their life. Cam’s dreams of a home and family are coming true as friends become more like family. Sometimes family by choice is much better than the family we are born into. You have to read this book to find out how everything works out but don’t miss it. This has been one serial book that is so worth the wait to find out how everything comes out. I received this book for free and am reviewing it because it is so terrific I want others to know just how great it is.
April 26, 2017
What a beautiful story for Cam and James. Riddled with fear that her murderous and abusive father would be released early from prison, Cam has learned to accept help from friends to get through this ordeal. She and her sister, Evie, prepare to speak to the parole board but that means being in their father's presence. Can they do it and will their statements keep him behind bars or does Keith pull in favors from his old buddies so he can walk? While that's all going on, James and crew are preparing for the launch of their new tattoo studio, Exile Ink.
This is a fantastic series and will continue with James' brother, Aiden, and childhood friend, Lydia. There is so much friction and unspoken words between them (it's been a year!!) that they are bound to heat up if left alone. I can't wait!
This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy.
This is a fantastic series and will continue with James' brother, Aiden, and childhood friend, Lydia. There is so much friction and unspoken words between them (it's been a year!!) that they are bound to heat up if left alone. I can't wait!
This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy.
April 26, 2017
An awesome ending for an awesome series. I'm looking forward to so much more from this group and this author!
Cam and Evie's nightmare is coming to life and James is struggling with how to keep that from happening. They struggle, love, and work their way to a solution and I really love how it plays out. The way James went about it made me nervous in the beginning, but by the end I was so impressed that he thought it out instead of going all dark avenger on Keith. Cam was strong, nervous and scared, yes, but still so much inner strength. I admire her as a woman so very much. Ferdinand is the perfect addition.
The cast and crew of Exile Ink and their friends are amazing, multi-faceted, intriguing, and compelling. I very willingly reviewed an ARC received from the author.
Cam and Evie's nightmare is coming to life and James is struggling with how to keep that from happening. They struggle, love, and work their way to a solution and I really love how it plays out. The way James went about it made me nervous in the beginning, but by the end I was so impressed that he thought it out instead of going all dark avenger on Keith. Cam was strong, nervous and scared, yes, but still so much inner strength. I admire her as a woman so very much. Ferdinand is the perfect addition.
The cast and crew of Exile Ink and their friends are amazing, multi-faceted, intriguing, and compelling. I very willingly reviewed an ARC received from the author.
April 26, 2017
As the opening of Exile Ink draws close so does the parole hearing for Cam's father. James tries to find a way to ensure Keith stays in jail. Will his plan work? Will Cam and Evie be able to speak to the parole board? This is the conclusion of James and Cam's story but just the beginning of Exile Ink. Ms. Hill has set up characters for future stories. This has been a very good series so far and I can't wait to read Aiden and Lydia's story.
*I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing*
*I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing*
April 26, 2017
This is book that you just can't put down and it is an incredible ending to a wonderful story.. Drama, romance, and excitement is in this story. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
April 26, 2017
This is the third and last book of the trilogy. The story wrapped up all the things that were happening. I loved this book, as well as the other two. I confess that I actually cried through parts of this book because they were both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. James and Cam were two people who couldn't be better for one another and what we all hope to have. Ms. Hill brought all of her characters to life spectacularly and I can't wait for more from her. I highly recommend that you read this.
I received an ARC copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
April 27, 2017
Book 3 completes James and Cam's story arc. The story covers finishing up for the opening of Exile Ink and the parole hearing of Cam's dad. We also get to meet the last tattoo artist to join Exile Ink. Oh the stories I hope that are coming! The writing is again very good as the story unfolds with the narrative switching between James and Cam. I still feel that Skylar is one of the best writers who does this in her books. It is seamless and makes the story flow oh so well. The story is a litter darker than the other 2 books but that is because we get a few more details of Cam's past and why she wants her father to stay in jail. Skylar was great at presenting family abuse in a very straight forward way but not drowning in details. Made the story not have a very dark feel on whole but made me feel and understand Cam better. Always love stories of people living through hell as children but rising above to become great adults. I love this series and recommend reading it.
April 27, 2017
An amazing conclusion!
Now that's how you end a series! For a shorter story, this had so many things happening. It was a fast whirlwind that had me going and drawn in immediately, as I wanted to know how everything turned out. I was very satisfied. This book had all the feels that I want and look for in a story. If you've read the previous books, read this one now! Seriously. You'll thank me later. If you're new to the series, read the others first; it's so worth it. Thankfully, this concluding book came out shortly after book 2, so there wasn't much waiting, which I really liked.
This book picks up where book 2 left off, with Cam and James. Cam proves herself again and again to be a strong, caring, and passionate woman, the kind of woman deserving of James. James is at Cam's side through everything; he has many worries of his own, but is still able to kind and thankful towards others. He proves himself worthy of Cam. If you loved these two in the previous books, you'll love them here.
With the end of this book means the beginning of another series, this time for Lydia and Aiden. I am super excited for it, as well as to see what happens between the other tattoo artists at Exile Ink as time goes by. We're introduced to Grant, and I already love Tasha. I think both will be great additions to come, just as they were in this book.
Overall, I LOVED this book! You need to read it. You won't regret it. It's sweet, has that bit of steam unique to Skylar Hill, and makes you feel and connect with the characters as they struggle and make their way through life. So many feels. I'm trying to avoid spoilers, so that's all I'm saying. You just need to read this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review. I also bought the book because I loved this book so much.
Now that's how you end a series! For a shorter story, this had so many things happening. It was a fast whirlwind that had me going and drawn in immediately, as I wanted to know how everything turned out. I was very satisfied. This book had all the feels that I want and look for in a story. If you've read the previous books, read this one now! Seriously. You'll thank me later. If you're new to the series, read the others first; it's so worth it. Thankfully, this concluding book came out shortly after book 2, so there wasn't much waiting, which I really liked.
This book picks up where book 2 left off, with Cam and James. Cam proves herself again and again to be a strong, caring, and passionate woman, the kind of woman deserving of James. James is at Cam's side through everything; he has many worries of his own, but is still able to kind and thankful towards others. He proves himself worthy of Cam. If you loved these two in the previous books, you'll love them here.
With the end of this book means the beginning of another series, this time for Lydia and Aiden. I am super excited for it, as well as to see what happens between the other tattoo artists at Exile Ink as time goes by. We're introduced to Grant, and I already love Tasha. I think both will be great additions to come, just as they were in this book.
Overall, I LOVED this book! You need to read it. You won't regret it. It's sweet, has that bit of steam unique to Skylar Hill, and makes you feel and connect with the characters as they struggle and make their way through life. So many feels. I'm trying to avoid spoilers, so that's all I'm saying. You just need to read this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review. I also bought the book because I loved this book so much.
April 27, 2017
Get the tissues you will need them in this final book on Cam & James's story...and what an emotional, beautiful conclusion it was. It's all about the love between the two and the strength they find in each other when her dad comes up for parole. When her sister and Cam go to the parole hearing....this is when the tissues are going to be needed. During it all James is there for her and Cam has finally opened up all of herself to James. I loved how through all the emotions and insecurities she leaned on him and didn't pull away, retreating on herself like she used to & how James was so willing to do it all for her and more to keep her safe and secure. The love between all of them including all the friends the way they pulled together for strength and of course the opening of their tattoo studio was beautiful.
I LOVED this conclusion and Cam and James's story from the beginning when they first met in the first book and now as a couple....in my top 10 of my favorite couples in a book.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
I LOVED this conclusion and Cam and James's story from the beginning when they first met in the first book and now as a couple....in my top 10 of my favorite couples in a book.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
April 27, 2017
It's the last book of the series about Cam & James. Main topics are the hearing and the great-opening. The former is what the sisters prepared for quite some time to prevent their father from getting out of prison while the latter is the great final of the book which is the dream of James. So everyone of the couple gets their share of attention. I liked the story a lot. It shows how strong women can be and how protective men can get of them. Easy to read because of the pleasant writing-style.
April 28, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I loved the stunning conclusion to James and Cam's story, of their powerful strong love they have for one another. It has certainly been an emotional roller coaster ride, so enthralling to an awesome ending. I look forward to reading more from the characters of Exile Ink. I can honestly say I recommend this book.
April 29, 2017
Another great book in this series. I'm loving these characters. Such strong women & confident men to support them. I can't wait for the next one!
April 30, 2017
3.5 stars
May 1, 2017
Awww, what a sweet (and steamy!) love story! I just love James and Cam as a couple. As strong as she is, she can still lean on James and he's always right there for her. This final book in their trilogy is very satisfying - lots of victorious Hell Yeah! moments, plenty of hot love scenes, great interaction with supporting characters and, dare I say, setting up one or two more romances? please? Yes, I'm begging! We have a wonderful conclusion to James and Cam's story with all necessary story lines wrapped up beautifully. This book couldn't have been better. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
May 2, 2017
The Exile Ink series ends with a bang in book three (Something Real). The story of Cam and James is a very moving one with lots of drama, suspense, action, passion and emotion. Be forewarned, you might need some tissues. A great read. I received an a reader copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews