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Brothers Ink #2
Maxwell
A sweet, romantic love story, awash in heartbreak and emotion—
Malee was sheltered all her life,
Until the day she walked into Brothers Ink
Lucky for her… he’s waiting.
She’s naïve and wary.
But that’s okay…
Maxwell O’Rourke is a patient man.
Some things are worth waiting for.
He’s nothing Malee ever thought she’d want, but everything she needs.
He makes her feel beautiful and worthy, even as he makes her burn with desire.
When an overprotective father with deep-rooted family traditions tries to come between them, she’ll have to make some hard choices. And she’ll have to be ready to face the consequences.
And just how far is Maxwell willing to go for the girl who owns his heart?
Malee was sheltered all her life,
Until the day she walked into Brothers Ink
Lucky for her… he’s waiting.
She’s naïve and wary.
But that’s okay…
Maxwell O’Rourke is a patient man.
Some things are worth waiting for.
He’s nothing Malee ever thought she’d want, but everything she needs.
He makes her feel beautiful and worthy, even as he makes her burn with desire.
When an overprotective father with deep-rooted family traditions tries to come between them, she’ll have to make some hard choices. And she’ll have to be ready to face the consequences.
And just how far is Maxwell willing to go for the girl who owns his heart?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 9, 2017
849 people are currently reading
617 people want to read
About the author
Nicole James
57 books2,640 followersNicole James is a USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author who loves writing about hot alpha men who'll do anything for the women they love!
Her stories are filled with struggle, conflict and real human emotion.
She is the author of the Evil Dead MC series, the Brothers Ink Tattoo series and more.
Her stories are filled with struggle, conflict and real human emotion.
She is the author of the Evil Dead MC series, the Brothers Ink Tattoo series and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
August 14, 2017
2.5 stars.
I really wish Amazon/Goodreads had half stars because it's much better than a 2 star read, but not a 3 star read. I decided not to mark it up because of the issue I had with this book.
Going into this book, I knew there was a very high chance of there being unnecessary 'other woman' drama because that's what this author does to get the plot moving along and to inject some angst, I suppose. I knew that going in so when it happened, I wasn't the least bit surprised or even angry about it when it happened.
No. My problem was the way he acted towards her after their break up. I have no idea how old the dude is but I know it's certainly older than 21. In fact, he talks about being ten years older than the women in the bar, so since the United States' legal drinking age is 21, I'm guessing he's 31-ish? Malee, on the other hand, has just turned 21 and has been incredibly sheltered all her life. She's never had a serious relationship before and everything with Max is new to her. The first time she's ever had to stand up to her family, she falters. I found this understandable, seeing as she's never done it before and she's shit scared. They also have completely different family dynamics and cultures. Max knows all this, and yet, he cuts her off completely and walks out on her when she's too scared to go against her father. Max doesn't give her time to re-think her decision, or help her, or be there for her like someone who loves her soooo much is supposed to do...nope. She is the one who has to come to him. Not once. Not twice, but three fucking times!! And each time, he makes her feel like shit, acting like a petulant little boy instead of a grown man. And of course, she's the one who has to apologise and take all the blame because he certainly wasn't going to make it easy for her. Pissed me off so much, I ended up skimming to the end and couldn't care less how his story ended. Maybe if he was written as the same age as her, it wouldn't have bothered me. But he's not, so it did. Makes me think that it wasn't love he felt for her, just a strong attraction.
I really wish Amazon/Goodreads had half stars because it's much better than a 2 star read, but not a 3 star read. I decided not to mark it up because of the issue I had with this book.
Going into this book, I knew there was a very high chance of there being unnecessary 'other woman' drama because that's what this author does to get the plot moving along and to inject some angst, I suppose. I knew that going in so when it happened, I wasn't the least bit surprised or even angry about it when it happened.
No. My problem was the way he acted towards her after their break up. I have no idea how old the dude is but I know it's certainly older than 21. In fact, he talks about being ten years older than the women in the bar, so since the United States' legal drinking age is 21, I'm guessing he's 31-ish? Malee, on the other hand, has just turned 21 and has been incredibly sheltered all her life. She's never had a serious relationship before and everything with Max is new to her. The first time she's ever had to stand up to her family, she falters. I found this understandable, seeing as she's never done it before and she's shit scared. They also have completely different family dynamics and cultures. Max knows all this, and yet, he cuts her off completely and walks out on her when she's too scared to go against her father. Max doesn't give her time to re-think her decision, or help her, or be there for her like someone who loves her soooo much is supposed to do...nope. She is the one who has to come to him. Not once. Not twice, but three fucking times!! And each time, he makes her feel like shit, acting like a petulant little boy instead of a grown man. And of course, she's the one who has to apologise and take all the blame because he certainly wasn't going to make it easy for her. Pissed me off so much, I ended up skimming to the end and couldn't care less how his story ended. Maybe if he was written as the same age as her, it wouldn't have bothered me. But he's not, so it did. Makes me think that it wasn't love he felt for her, just a strong attraction.
August 22, 2017
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Maxwell brings us back to Brother's Ink Tattoo's and follows Maxwell O'Rourke as he meets the woman he wants more than anything, but has a fight on his hands if he wants to keep her. Malee wants to discover the world away from her overprotective father, and she finds that Maxwell is the perfect person to help her do that.
This was such a sweet romance and had the perfect slow-burn to it. At points I was practically screaming at Max to just take what he wanted already, but I loved that it had me that excited to see them together. So when they were finally able to give in to their feelings it was so amazing to watch.
Malee was a great character to read about and I loved getting to see her grow into a more confident character with Max's help. Overall, a great read and this book can definitely be read as a standalone, but I still recommend Nicole James' other books since they are just as brilliant.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Maxwell brings us back to Brother's Ink Tattoo's and follows Maxwell O'Rourke as he meets the woman he wants more than anything, but has a fight on his hands if he wants to keep her. Malee wants to discover the world away from her overprotective father, and she finds that Maxwell is the perfect person to help her do that.
This was such a sweet romance and had the perfect slow-burn to it. At points I was practically screaming at Max to just take what he wanted already, but I loved that it had me that excited to see them together. So when they were finally able to give in to their feelings it was so amazing to watch.
Malee was a great character to read about and I loved getting to see her grow into a more confident character with Max's help. Overall, a great read and this book can definitely be read as a standalone, but I still recommend Nicole James' other books since they are just as brilliant.
August 12, 2017
Disappointing
Love Nicole James books and I've been looking forward to this one for a long time. Unfortunately this one was disappointing. I adored Maxwell but I always pictured him with a strong female. Not a twenty year old sneaking around hiding from her parents. I never felt the chemistry between Max and Malee. Just an ok read for me.
Love Nicole James books and I've been looking forward to this one for a long time. Unfortunately this one was disappointing. I adored Maxwell but I always pictured him with a strong female. Not a twenty year old sneaking around hiding from her parents. I never felt the chemistry between Max and Malee. Just an ok read for me.
August 11, 2017
I swear five stars is not enough for this series, I love this book so much Maxwell is such an amazing character and each chapter you read next it becomes more interesting then the last page you read!! I love Malee she such a beautiful character I'm so glad she got her happily ever after!! I can't wait to read the next book, I hope we don't have to wait to long. I'm just so happy I finally got to read Max story and to see the gang together was priceless, so if you haven't started to read this series, drop what you doing and get the book because you will be soooooooo hooked!!! 😘😍😜🤗
August 27, 2017
It was ok. I skimmed most of it. It was very unrealistic. He's 34 she's 21 and it's all normal? They barely date but he proposed? The end was ok. But u pushed through bc I want to read the whole series and see what happened to the other brothers.
April 3, 2018
I liked this one. Not as much as I enjoyed Jameson last year but still.
Things I loved:
1. That the heroine was deaf. I was a speech-pathology major and I studied sign-language in school (plus I've always been a bit fascinated by ASL and deaf culture) so I'm a sucker for a book where one of the MCs is deaf/hearing impaired.
2.That the heroine was not white. It isn't outside of the norm for me to be drawn toward interracial romance but I will admit I'm a bit more familiar with BWWM (black woman, white man) or even LWWM (Latin woman, white man) than AWWM (Asian woman, white man). It was a point in her favor (at least for me) that Malee was not the typical, cookie-cutter, Caucasian female lead
3.The familial relationships. One of the things I loved about the first book in this series was how close Jameson was with all his brothers. That carries over into this book. By the start of Maxwell's story, Jameson is happily married to Ava and the couple is expected their first child. I love how the whole O'Rourke clan embraces Ava like she's always been a part of the family. I also love that despite how "alpha" Jameson is, he is perfectly comfortable with the clear affection between Ava and Maxwell--it takes a strong man to be alright with another man (even his brother) being so close to his woman.
And while Malee's family's tendency to shelter her because of her disability got to be tiresome, I loved that she did seem to have a "champion" in her feisty Aunt Ratana and an ally in her older sister Lawan.
Things I didn't love
1. The heroine was a pushover. I know I should be a little more sensitive given her age, disability, and somewhat sheltered lifestyle but I wanted Malee to have just a little bit more backbone.
2. The slow burn. I loved the slow burn but then I hated it too. It just felt a bit anticlimactic for them to wait so long to consummate their relationship. I mean, I know culture and tradition of the heroine (and Maxwell's respect for her) were large contributing factors but I just didn't feel it was very realistic that there wasn't a LEAST a little under-the-clothes touchy-feely hanky-panky prior to the wedding night. Come on folks, this is the 21st century, lol!
All in all, I give the story 3.5 stars because the likability far outweighed the problem areas for me. I can't wait to read about the next few brothers.
Things I loved:
1. That the heroine was deaf. I was a speech-pathology major and I studied sign-language in school (plus I've always been a bit fascinated by ASL and deaf culture) so I'm a sucker for a book where one of the MCs is deaf/hearing impaired.
2.That the heroine was not white. It isn't outside of the norm for me to be drawn toward interracial romance but I will admit I'm a bit more familiar with BWWM (black woman, white man) or even LWWM (Latin woman, white man) than AWWM (Asian woman, white man). It was a point in her favor (at least for me) that Malee was not the typical, cookie-cutter, Caucasian female lead
3.The familial relationships. One of the things I loved about the first book in this series was how close Jameson was with all his brothers. That carries over into this book. By the start of Maxwell's story, Jameson is happily married to Ava and the couple is expected their first child. I love how the whole O'Rourke clan embraces Ava like she's always been a part of the family. I also love that despite how "alpha" Jameson is, he is perfectly comfortable with the clear affection between Ava and Maxwell--it takes a strong man to be alright with another man (even his brother) being so close to his woman.
And while Malee's family's tendency to shelter her because of her disability got to be tiresome, I loved that she did seem to have a "champion" in her feisty Aunt Ratana and an ally in her older sister Lawan.
Things I didn't love
1. The heroine was a pushover. I know I should be a little more sensitive given her age, disability, and somewhat sheltered lifestyle but I wanted Malee to have just a little bit more backbone.
2. The slow burn. I loved the slow burn but then I hated it too. It just felt a bit anticlimactic for them to wait so long to consummate their relationship. I mean, I know culture and tradition of the heroine (and Maxwell's respect for her) were large contributing factors but I just didn't feel it was very realistic that there wasn't a LEAST a little under-the-clothes touchy-feely hanky-panky prior to the wedding night. Come on folks, this is the 21st century, lol!
All in all, I give the story 3.5 stars because the likability far outweighed the problem areas for me. I can't wait to read about the next few brothers.
August 9, 2017
This is the first time I have read this author and I will definitely be looking into her other books! Especially the first book in this series! This book can be read as a standalone.
I blew through this book! I started reading it and read it until the wee hours of the morning, as I couldn’t put it down! I loved Maxwell and Malee! What a sweet, beautiful, sexy, slow burn romance. The feels in this story! I experienced the stomach plummets, the throat tightening, tear welling, giddy stomach flutters and chest squeezes! Yes, they were instantly attracted to each other, but due to Malee’s disability (hearing impaired), her heritage (her family is from Thailand and she is expected to marry a nice Thai boy), and her innocence (her father doesn’t let her out of the family circle). Also take into account Maxwell’s and his family’s reputation around town, things are complicated!
What words can I use to describe Maxwell? He is an amazing lead character. He is so patient, sweet, caring and he has such a tender heart. Did I mention that he is sexy as hell? Max had me swooning throughout the book! He fell in love with Malee at first sight and he really pulled out all the stops to woo her! He is definitely book boyfriend material!
Malee had actually been crushing on Maxwell before he even laid eyes on her. She would watch him from afar in the gym teaching classes while her brother took MMA classes. So, when she delivered a takeout order to Max at their tattoo parlor, she was so enchanted by all the art on the walls of all the tattoos that she didn’t pay attention to Max or Liam. She was shocked to find out Max worked there. Max was bound and determined to get to know this girl!
I don’t want to get into what goes on in the book, as you need to experience this wonderful love story for yourself. The main characters I fell in love with. The secondary characters were rich and added a great depth and entertainment to the story. Loved Maxwell’s brothers and Malee’s sister and aunt! I just loved everything about it.
If you love a sweet, sexy, slow burn romance with all the feels then give this book a try, you won’t regret it.
ARC kindly provided by Mark My Words Book Publicity for an honest review.
I blew through this book! I started reading it and read it until the wee hours of the morning, as I couldn’t put it down! I loved Maxwell and Malee! What a sweet, beautiful, sexy, slow burn romance. The feels in this story! I experienced the stomach plummets, the throat tightening, tear welling, giddy stomach flutters and chest squeezes! Yes, they were instantly attracted to each other, but due to Malee’s disability (hearing impaired), her heritage (her family is from Thailand and she is expected to marry a nice Thai boy), and her innocence (her father doesn’t let her out of the family circle). Also take into account Maxwell’s and his family’s reputation around town, things are complicated!
What words can I use to describe Maxwell? He is an amazing lead character. He is so patient, sweet, caring and he has such a tender heart. Did I mention that he is sexy as hell? Max had me swooning throughout the book! He fell in love with Malee at first sight and he really pulled out all the stops to woo her! He is definitely book boyfriend material!
Malee had actually been crushing on Maxwell before he even laid eyes on her. She would watch him from afar in the gym teaching classes while her brother took MMA classes. So, when she delivered a takeout order to Max at their tattoo parlor, she was so enchanted by all the art on the walls of all the tattoos that she didn’t pay attention to Max or Liam. She was shocked to find out Max worked there. Max was bound and determined to get to know this girl!
I don’t want to get into what goes on in the book, as you need to experience this wonderful love story for yourself. The main characters I fell in love with. The secondary characters were rich and added a great depth and entertainment to the story. Loved Maxwell’s brothers and Malee’s sister and aunt! I just loved everything about it.
If you love a sweet, sexy, slow burn romance with all the feels then give this book a try, you won’t regret it.
ARC kindly provided by Mark My Words Book Publicity for an honest review.
August 9, 2017
Maxwell O'Rourke is older and wiser, no longer one to go looking for trouble as was his want in his younger years. He's got a job in the family business and helping out Pop's at the gym. He's got everything he needs, but there's something is missing he can't put his finger on.
Malee isn't you're normal twenty year-old, she has disability that her family has used to shelter and protect her. However, she's feeling restless and wants to get out and experience all that life has to offer.
A chance encounter brings these two together and the attraction is instant and intense.
The two enter into a clandestine affair, but when things turn serious the time to let her family know about their relationship becomes necessary.
So when opposition to their relationship surfaces, will they allows others to keep them apart or will they fight for what their heart yearns for?
Maxwell is an incredible journey of two people from vastly different background that find a way to come together and make a lastly connection.
Right from the start I was taken with Max. He's got a huge heart and fiercely loyal to those he's closest to. And from the moment he lays eyes on Malee, he knows she's his other half. Despite all the obstacles that would stand in their way, he never let that stop him. He knows what he wants and will whatever it takes to make those dreams come true.
I love how Malee sees the man behind the ink, she sees Max's heart. With her family and her disability, she could have been closed off to those not in her immediate circle, but she's open and willing to try new things. She grows stronger and more independent thanks to Max's love and support.
I really loved this read and feel hard for Max. Watching these two fall in love, along with the ups and downs of them being together, made this a book I couldn't put down. It just goes to show that can't judge people by their outward appearance.
If you love a story with heart, soul, romance, and hero that will surprise you, then I highly recommend you pick up Maxwell.
Malee isn't you're normal twenty year-old, she has disability that her family has used to shelter and protect her. However, she's feeling restless and wants to get out and experience all that life has to offer.
A chance encounter brings these two together and the attraction is instant and intense.
The two enter into a clandestine affair, but when things turn serious the time to let her family know about their relationship becomes necessary.
So when opposition to their relationship surfaces, will they allows others to keep them apart or will they fight for what their heart yearns for?
Maxwell is an incredible journey of two people from vastly different background that find a way to come together and make a lastly connection.
Right from the start I was taken with Max. He's got a huge heart and fiercely loyal to those he's closest to. And from the moment he lays eyes on Malee, he knows she's his other half. Despite all the obstacles that would stand in their way, he never let that stop him. He knows what he wants and will whatever it takes to make those dreams come true.
I love how Malee sees the man behind the ink, she sees Max's heart. With her family and her disability, she could have been closed off to those not in her immediate circle, but she's open and willing to try new things. She grows stronger and more independent thanks to Max's love and support.
I really loved this read and feel hard for Max. Watching these two fall in love, along with the ups and downs of them being together, made this a book I couldn't put down. It just goes to show that can't judge people by their outward appearance.
If you love a story with heart, soul, romance, and hero that will surprise you, then I highly recommend you pick up Maxwell.
October 29, 2017
I preferred this authors MC books. These books are worth reading if you like Nicole James, good story, great characters but the romance was a bit too sweet. I did like Max and Malee though and would probably read Liam and Rory’s story on KU.
September 9, 2017
liked the H, not the h
August 17, 2017
The O'Roarke brothers are not quite as bad ass as the men they tattoo from the Evil Dead MC. They are rough around the edges and sweet to the core, maybe a bit gruff but sweet nevertheless. Max is the epitome of a big teddy bear and it shines with the gentleness he shows Malee.
Malee is deaf and from a strict traditional family. Her father barely lets her leave the confines of the family restaurant and home but when he does, it is with a family escort. So she sneaks away, she sneaks out of the restaurant, grabbing a delivery bag for Brother's Ink so she can catch a glimpse of the big tattooed man from the gym. Malee has been sneaking to the gym to watch Max teach her brother's MMA technique class and once they meet officially, she sneaks out to see him when she can. Max doesn't want to be a secret, he wants speak to her father and take her on a proper date, but after begging him not to approach her father, he complies. Max wants to be her forever, but that means she may have to severe ties with her family forever. Malee's father wants her to marry a nice Thai boy and stay within the confines of the family. It comes to light that her older sister and Malee will soon have proper Thai suitors. When her father's choice for Malee is revealed, I seriously threw up a little in my mouth, being 20 and having that presented to you? Yuck. I felt such sympathy for how crushed Malee was by the idea that her father thought she could do no better than a middle aged toothless widower, while her sister's suitor was a handsome young man. Malee loves Max but she has to figure out what or who she wants. Malee wants to keep things the same but Max does not and I loved his backbone. I loved that Max stood up for himself when Malee asked to go back to the way things were. He knew what he wanted and she didn't choose him, bravo for the sweet hearted Max not to be a doormat.
All in all this is not an edgy read and the dialogue is almost childlike, but it is sweet and enjoyable.
Malee is deaf and from a strict traditional family. Her father barely lets her leave the confines of the family restaurant and home but when he does, it is with a family escort. So she sneaks away, she sneaks out of the restaurant, grabbing a delivery bag for Brother's Ink so she can catch a glimpse of the big tattooed man from the gym. Malee has been sneaking to the gym to watch Max teach her brother's MMA technique class and once they meet officially, she sneaks out to see him when she can. Max doesn't want to be a secret, he wants speak to her father and take her on a proper date, but after begging him not to approach her father, he complies. Max wants to be her forever, but that means she may have to severe ties with her family forever. Malee's father wants her to marry a nice Thai boy and stay within the confines of the family. It comes to light that her older sister and Malee will soon have proper Thai suitors. When her father's choice for Malee is revealed, I seriously threw up a little in my mouth, being 20 and having that presented to you? Yuck. I felt such sympathy for how crushed Malee was by the idea that her father thought she could do no better than a middle aged toothless widower, while her sister's suitor was a handsome young man. Malee loves Max but she has to figure out what or who she wants. Malee wants to keep things the same but Max does not and I loved his backbone. I loved that Max stood up for himself when Malee asked to go back to the way things were. He knew what he wanted and she didn't choose him, bravo for the sweet hearted Max not to be a doormat.
All in all this is not an edgy read and the dialogue is almost childlike, but it is sweet and enjoyable.
March 24, 2019
Maxwell and Malee. I loved their story and how they met. I thought Maxwell was adorable and sweet. Instant connection between him and Malee. She’s deaf and he couldn’t communicate with her however his brother Liam had learnt to sign and signed to her, a skill unbeknown to Max. When he learned to sign the alphabet, what a sweet thing to do. Even though there is a connection there’s also an age gap and cultural differences. Malee’s very young, sweet and a shy Asian girl. Total opposite. I found this story very romantic, the learning sign language and the note writing. But because of the cultural difference Malee didn’t think her strict overbearing father would approve. The father thought he was doing the best by his daughter by keeping her hidden. He should have been more accommodating to her instead of seeing his daughter’s disability as a burden or that no one would understand, this made her very self conscious and worthless. It also made it very difficult for Max and Malee to start a relationship, this is where the note writing comes into play. Just as quickly as things start going right, things just as quickly fall apart. The culture difference makes it near impossible. Max should have maned up and fought however it was a good thing. Malee found her passion and her strength. I enjoyed this story now I’m off to read Liam.
August 10, 2017
Title: Maxwell: Brothers Ink Tattoo
Author: Nicole James
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Adult
Published: 8/9/17
This is book 2 in the Brothers Ink series. Here we follow Max and his path to love with Malee. Now, Malee's family owns a Thai restaurant down the street from the tattoo shop. Malee is a bit younger, only 20, while Max is over 30.
Something that brings these two together is their feelings of being set adrift. They feel there has to be something more. They meet, fall in love, but keep it secret because her father is traditional Thai.
This is a contemporary Romeo and Juliet. But, it is also about finding who you are and being willing to go for it, no matter what.
I really loved the story and the depth. The writing style itself I feel was not up to Nicole James standards. I won't say it was juvenile, but it didn't always seem mature in its depth and scope. Max would have an epiphany that is well written and then it is like the emotion is gone from the story. It becomes 1 deminsinal. Like something just being repeated not expressed.
There was so much going on. I really do love the whole moral of the story: not only be true to yourself, but there is no time like the present so take care of it.
Author: Nicole James
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Adult
Published: 8/9/17
This is book 2 in the Brothers Ink series. Here we follow Max and his path to love with Malee. Now, Malee's family owns a Thai restaurant down the street from the tattoo shop. Malee is a bit younger, only 20, while Max is over 30.
Something that brings these two together is their feelings of being set adrift. They feel there has to be something more. They meet, fall in love, but keep it secret because her father is traditional Thai.
This is a contemporary Romeo and Juliet. But, it is also about finding who you are and being willing to go for it, no matter what.
I really loved the story and the depth. The writing style itself I feel was not up to Nicole James standards. I won't say it was juvenile, but it didn't always seem mature in its depth and scope. Max would have an epiphany that is well written and then it is like the emotion is gone from the story. It becomes 1 deminsinal. Like something just being repeated not expressed.
There was so much going on. I really do love the whole moral of the story: not only be true to yourself, but there is no time like the present so take care of it.
November 19, 2019
3.5 stars
This is a weird one for me. Liked Max and Malee but just didn't buy them as a couple. I really disliked how immature Max came off as after Malee made a difficult decision. I did love how the story encourages you to find something you love and do it! Ben was a nice addition as well as his babysitter.
Overall I enjoyed the story, just didn't fall in love with the couple but liked them as individuals
This is a weird one for me. Liked Max and Malee but just didn't buy them as a couple. I really disliked how immature Max came off as after Malee made a difficult decision. I did love how the story encourages you to find something you love and do it! Ben was a nice addition as well as his babysitter.
Overall I enjoyed the story, just didn't fall in love with the couple but liked them as individuals
October 13, 2018
So sweet
This book was so sweet. It was nothing like o was expecting. Max and Malee are beautiful together and I loved their story. This book was not nearly as steamy as the first book in the series which is what threw me off a bit. Overall, this is a sweet romance.
This book was so sweet. It was nothing like o was expecting. Max and Malee are beautiful together and I loved their story. This book was not nearly as steamy as the first book in the series which is what threw me off a bit. Overall, this is a sweet romance.
August 12, 2017
Loved Max and Malees forbidden romance) Cant get enough of this series.I need book 3
August 16, 2017
HNRY - Heroine brought nothing. You may love this. Reading is subjective.
August 1, 2018
Another hit
Brothers Ink Tattoo has another hit on its hands.. . This one was just as good as the last, cant wait for the next
Brothers Ink Tattoo has another hit on its hands.. . This one was just as good as the last, cant wait for the next
January 10, 2022
Favorite brother, love Max.
June 16, 2018
I love this author ever since Outlaw and her MC series.
This was okay read. Not bad at all but I didn't love it either. I was missing some magic.
Overall okay read in this series that I would continue to read.
I rated first book in the series high but I liked this story and couple better then that one.
This was okay read. Not bad at all but I didn't love it either. I was missing some magic.
Overall okay read in this series that I would continue to read.
I rated first book in the series high but I liked this story and couple better then that one.
May 28, 2018
Max is Amazing!
I loved this book so much. Max is the perfect guy for Malee and I adore how their story played out. I’m glad it didn’t just fall in their laps. Sometimes having to work for it makes it that much sweeter. Can’t wait for Liam!
I loved this book so much. Max is the perfect guy for Malee and I adore how their story played out. I’m glad it didn’t just fall in their laps. Sometimes having to work for it makes it that much sweeter. Can’t wait for Liam!
April 24, 2020
I'm kind of torn on this one. There were chapters/moments I loved, then others that had me rolling my eyes and exasperated. Maxwell & Malee's story is basically insta-love, and they meet really early on in the book. However, there's no physical relationship progression besides kissing until 85ish percent. And he proposes pretty early on before they really know each other or have spent much time together. So for a relationship that was super rushed, this was way too much of a slow burn. (Sounds like an oxymoron, I know.) I loved that the author created a main character with a disability, but it was almost like the author forgot Malee was deaf at times. There was one scene where she was at her aunt's apartment and she was looking out the window but turned around when her aunt closed the door and called her name. Another spot in the book noted that she hears motorcycles drive down the street. Does she really hear it? Or just feels the vibrations as they pass? And late in the book it's mentioned that she is completely deaf in one ear and can hear just a tiny bit in the other...but in the first scene when the main characters meet, a glass bowl gets smashed on the ground and she doesn't even flinch or react at all. So can she hear nothing, can she hear a little? I was confused.
I also thought everything wrapped up a little too perfectly with their new instant family, and the thing with Ben's dad and all. And that Malee's family ended up accepting them as a couple. I don't know...it just all seemed too tidy and easy in the end.
Overall the book had lots of potential, but it ended up falling kind of flat between what I felt were some major inconsistencies, and the ironically ridiculously slow burn insta-love.
I also thought everything wrapped up a little too perfectly with their new instant family, and the thing with Ben's dad and all. And that Malee's family ended up accepting them as a couple. I don't know...it just all seemed too tidy and easy in the end.
Overall the book had lots of potential, but it ended up falling kind of flat between what I felt were some major inconsistencies, and the ironically ridiculously slow burn insta-love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2019
2.5 stars
I was really looking forward to Maxwell's story, but this was kind of a miss for me. It felt like it was about two teen kids experiencing their first love. He would tell her he missed her and then ask if she missed him too. They left secret notes for each other, and would sneak around and hide from her family that they were seeing each other. When they did meet, they would practically run into each other's arms.
I didn't like that he went from knowing absolutely no sign language to being able to have detailed conversations with her less that a month later.
There were a few instances when Malee was aware of sounds (like a door creaking, or a door closing, or someone calling her name), almost like the author herself forgot her heroine was deaf.
I really started to dislike Malee around the halfway point. She was weak and not really the kind of heroine I would have chosen for Max. He deserved a woman who would fight for him, who would defend him, especially to her family. But to her, familial respect meant letting her father make all her life's decisions for her, even if they made her miserable, and hurt the man she claimed to love.
So the HEA didn't hold very much emotion for me.
I was really looking forward to Maxwell's story, but this was kind of a miss for me. It felt like it was about two teen kids experiencing their first love. He would tell her he missed her and then ask if she missed him too. They left secret notes for each other, and would sneak around and hide from her family that they were seeing each other. When they did meet, they would practically run into each other's arms.
I didn't like that he went from knowing absolutely no sign language to being able to have detailed conversations with her less that a month later.
There were a few instances when Malee was aware of sounds (like a door creaking, or a door closing, or someone calling her name), almost like the author herself forgot her heroine was deaf.
I really started to dislike Malee around the halfway point. She was weak and not really the kind of heroine I would have chosen for Max. He deserved a woman who would fight for him, who would defend him, especially to her family. But to her, familial respect meant letting her father make all her life's decisions for her, even if they made her miserable, and hurt the man she claimed to love.
So the HEA didn't hold very much emotion for me.
January 15, 2020
Oh dear lord... Once again I'm in the minority here. Im so confused about the high ratings on this. This one was worse than the first! These characters are cringy. Malee is a child and Max is a grown ass man. Yes, age is just a number but when you're 20 and have the life experience and mindset of a 13 year old, you're a child! Again, I didnt see the attraction or chemistry, like at all. The story had no substance. These characters were boring and, again, Ava is more irritating that the first book. Are females really that fucking annoying? There just was so much lacking and then before you know it they're professing their love to one another after just weeks of a handful of hours together. They barely know each other and then Max proposes to her! Seriously?! Ugh omggggg this whole thing was just a mess. I'll admit I got sucked in because of the cover and the high ratings but no no no. Just noooooo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2017
Don't care for this series...
I love Nicole's books, but I'm not liking this series. In her other ones, the Heroes are strong dominant alphas which I prefer in a Hero. These 4 four brothers are super sweet and nice to the point that it's nauseating. I also think we readers like to find relatable things with the Heroine and I couldn't find one thing with this one. She is written as a deaf Thai girl who busses tables in her parents' restaurant. I get that opposites attract but these two just seemed like an odd match that I couldn't get past. The story is really sweet, but it's more suited to a teenager reading this book than an adult. I'm done with this series but hopefully the next series gets back to style of Nicole's writing that I prefer.
I love Nicole's books, but I'm not liking this series. In her other ones, the Heroes are strong dominant alphas which I prefer in a Hero. These 4 four brothers are super sweet and nice to the point that it's nauseating. I also think we readers like to find relatable things with the Heroine and I couldn't find one thing with this one. She is written as a deaf Thai girl who busses tables in her parents' restaurant. I get that opposites attract but these two just seemed like an odd match that I couldn't get past. The story is really sweet, but it's more suited to a teenager reading this book than an adult. I'm done with this series but hopefully the next series gets back to style of Nicole's writing that I prefer.
April 2, 2018
Malee has been hidden most of her life, she can't talk and her father sees this as making her a weakness for others to prey upon. Sneaking out she makes a delivery to Maxwell O'Rourke's tattoo parlor. Maxwell wants to get to know more about the beautiful Malee, he wants to protect her and goes about showing it. However, Malee's family is determined to keep them apart and Malee will be faced with a life changing decision. Will she make the right choice?
This was not what I expected at all. This was good but a bit more angsty then I thought it would be. I liked the story overall and was really smitten with Maxwell. Felt for Malee because she faces some tough choices. Checking out the next book.
This was not what I expected at all. This was good but a bit more angsty then I thought it would be. I liked the story overall and was really smitten with Maxwell. Felt for Malee because she faces some tough choices. Checking out the next book.
August 9, 2017
The author would like an honest review for this book.
4 stars
This is just an all around sweet book. I know I said it sweet. But that is what I took out of this book. Malee will open your heart and make you realize that are some customs from generations and generations that the older will not compromise on, even if its not true love. Malee doesn't fit in with her family. She isn't allowed to do much and that was so frustrating at the beginning of this story. You will feel for Malee from the beginning. When she sneaks out for a delivery, I think that is when she starts to rebel. For being twenty years old, she has not seen life, or been allowed too and I think she has just had enough. With that being said, remember when I said customs in her family are not meant to be broken. Max, I just have to say wow. I loved him from the beginning. He is a breath of fresh air. He is not a wham bam thank you mam kinda guy and you will love that about him. So when Malee walks into his life, he never wants her to walk out of it. He has gone above and beyond for this woman. Has learned things that he never thought he would have to learn, and he loves with his full heart. What more can you want from a man like Maxwell. On top of that, he is trying to help a boy in this book because he sees what he is going through, this is a man you wouldn't give up in a heartbeat. Family always seems to be the the essential part that can keep a couple together or break them apart. That is what you will see in this book. Love is not always the only thinkg that matters, and with that it can destroy the love that has been found. In this book you we see how different people do in their customs and how it affect the children and how a bond can be broken as quickly as it can be given.
Malee's life is complicated. She has to deal with her disability everyday, and her dad does not help it. He keeps her confined to the kitchen and not allowed to do anything else. He says its for her protection. So when she has had enough, she grabs a bag for a delivery and goes to the Ink Brothers to deliver their food. The first time that Max lays his eyes on Malee it all changes for him. He knows that she is going to be his. So when he tries to speak to her, and she doesn't say anything he doesn't understand. That is when Liam realizes she is deaf. So with Liams help, he learns to sign and starts to engage Malee. They sneak around, behind Malee's dad's back, so they can be together, which is great until Max wants more. Complications arise, and Malee's customs are thrown in her face, so she is going to have to choose, a life with Max or one without.
I left a lot out and I do that on purpose, because when I love a book, I want you to feel what I have felt in the book. You will feel the love, the stress, the everything that goes on in a relationship. What was nice about this book, is that it was not only about Malee and Max. Max really had another story line in this book, that I feel that gave the book more. What he does at that gym and for a teenage boy, is way more than anyone I know would ever do and that just makes him exceptional character. Max is that guy. That guy you want to be with, around, just everywhere he is because is just a great person. Something you don't see anymore. I can't tell you how much this book will keep you reading until you are done. that is what these characters do. You also get to see all the Ink brothers in here and Ava of course. There is also Malee's family that plays a huge part in her story. It all worked so well for this book that I can't wait to see what Liam has to offer.
4 stars
This is just an all around sweet book. I know I said it sweet. But that is what I took out of this book. Malee will open your heart and make you realize that are some customs from generations and generations that the older will not compromise on, even if its not true love. Malee doesn't fit in with her family. She isn't allowed to do much and that was so frustrating at the beginning of this story. You will feel for Malee from the beginning. When she sneaks out for a delivery, I think that is when she starts to rebel. For being twenty years old, she has not seen life, or been allowed too and I think she has just had enough. With that being said, remember when I said customs in her family are not meant to be broken. Max, I just have to say wow. I loved him from the beginning. He is a breath of fresh air. He is not a wham bam thank you mam kinda guy and you will love that about him. So when Malee walks into his life, he never wants her to walk out of it. He has gone above and beyond for this woman. Has learned things that he never thought he would have to learn, and he loves with his full heart. What more can you want from a man like Maxwell. On top of that, he is trying to help a boy in this book because he sees what he is going through, this is a man you wouldn't give up in a heartbeat. Family always seems to be the the essential part that can keep a couple together or break them apart. That is what you will see in this book. Love is not always the only thinkg that matters, and with that it can destroy the love that has been found. In this book you we see how different people do in their customs and how it affect the children and how a bond can be broken as quickly as it can be given.
Malee's life is complicated. She has to deal with her disability everyday, and her dad does not help it. He keeps her confined to the kitchen and not allowed to do anything else. He says its for her protection. So when she has had enough, she grabs a bag for a delivery and goes to the Ink Brothers to deliver their food. The first time that Max lays his eyes on Malee it all changes for him. He knows that she is going to be his. So when he tries to speak to her, and she doesn't say anything he doesn't understand. That is when Liam realizes she is deaf. So with Liams help, he learns to sign and starts to engage Malee. They sneak around, behind Malee's dad's back, so they can be together, which is great until Max wants more. Complications arise, and Malee's customs are thrown in her face, so she is going to have to choose, a life with Max or one without.
I left a lot out and I do that on purpose, because when I love a book, I want you to feel what I have felt in the book. You will feel the love, the stress, the everything that goes on in a relationship. What was nice about this book, is that it was not only about Malee and Max. Max really had another story line in this book, that I feel that gave the book more. What he does at that gym and for a teenage boy, is way more than anyone I know would ever do and that just makes him exceptional character. Max is that guy. That guy you want to be with, around, just everywhere he is because is just a great person. Something you don't see anymore. I can't tell you how much this book will keep you reading until you are done. that is what these characters do. You also get to see all the Ink brothers in here and Ava of course. There is also Malee's family that plays a huge part in her story. It all worked so well for this book that I can't wait to see what Liam has to offer.
August 9, 2017
Living in a world of silence is all that Malee has ever known. She's been sheltered in her life and hasn't had a chance to spread her wings. Overprotective does not begin to describe her father and her brother follows along with tradition in which women are protected and the men run the family. But Malee wants to spread her wings and is tired of feeling like she is seen as less in her father’s eyes. She wants something of her own, so she takes a chance that she knows could backfire on her. But it is a consequence that she is willing to deal with.
Maxwell loves his life working at Brothers Ink. He is with his brothers and he gets to put his ink on others. But his world is rocked when Malee enters into the doors of the shop. She makes him think of forever, but he knows that he has his work cut out for him. She is sheltered and unsure of herself, and she has a father that hates him and his brothers. The biggest issue will be his patience in understanding that traditions have been bred into her bones. Can Malee break from tradition and go after her heart's desire, or will she allow the traditions she was raised in determine her future without Maxwell?
Maxwell and Malee are such a beautiful couple together. She is so shy and he is so confident that it allows the true Malee to come out. I loved how the book didn’t shy away from her deafness, but it embraced it. Maxwell learned sign language just to speak with her and understand her, which showed the depth of his commitment early on. The angst in the story was at times heart wrenching and thrilling. Nicole James wrote such a loving and beautiful story that caused me to cry, laugh, rage, and cheer in equal measures. This was definitely a win in my book!
eARC through Mark My Words Book Publicity
Maxwell loves his life working at Brothers Ink. He is with his brothers and he gets to put his ink on others. But his world is rocked when Malee enters into the doors of the shop. She makes him think of forever, but he knows that he has his work cut out for him. She is sheltered and unsure of herself, and she has a father that hates him and his brothers. The biggest issue will be his patience in understanding that traditions have been bred into her bones. Can Malee break from tradition and go after her heart's desire, or will she allow the traditions she was raised in determine her future without Maxwell?
Maxwell and Malee are such a beautiful couple together. She is so shy and he is so confident that it allows the true Malee to come out. I loved how the book didn’t shy away from her deafness, but it embraced it. Maxwell learned sign language just to speak with her and understand her, which showed the depth of his commitment early on. The angst in the story was at times heart wrenching and thrilling. Nicole James wrote such a loving and beautiful story that caused me to cry, laugh, rage, and cheer in equal measures. This was definitely a win in my book!
eARC through Mark My Words Book Publicity
July 1, 2019
Well, that was...mah.
The story is about Max and Malee.
Max who is 35, tattoo artist, MMA fighter and all around good man.
Malee is 20/21, Thai, over sheltered, deaf and basically home or at the family restaurant.
She has a crush on him and one day sneeks out and delivers their order insteed of her brother.
And so it starts.
I love age gap stories - 10-15 years and I'm sold. I also like the whole ''opposite attract'' thingy. But in this book, none of this worked.
The age gap was felt and not in a good sense. Usually the younger participant has to be mature for dynemic to work and for age gap to not become an issue. With Malee I couldn't get past the fact that she was a GIRL in everything she did. On the other hand we have Max who is a MAN - no more explanation needed.
Add the whole ''they are from very different backgrounds'' and everything got worse.
I understand the secrecy, but c'mon - everything felt highschool-ish. Show me a guy in his mid 30's who will sneek around, hide his relationship, see his woman twice a week (if even) in a gym, writting and leaving her notes...it felt so childish and it worked for Malee, but it seemed so ridiculous for Max.
It also bothered me that I pictured him with someone very different. I didn't feel the chemistry between them, I felt as a cultural difference would be far more difficult in reality, but for some reason was also over exaggerated in the book and fell flat to me.
There were other little things I liked and disliked in this book, but the main issues are those described.
All in all, was just OK, a bit meh read.
3 stars.
The story is about Max and Malee.
Max who is 35, tattoo artist, MMA fighter and all around good man.
Malee is 20/21, Thai, over sheltered, deaf and basically home or at the family restaurant.
She has a crush on him and one day sneeks out and delivers their order insteed of her brother.
And so it starts.
I love age gap stories - 10-15 years and I'm sold. I also like the whole ''opposite attract'' thingy. But in this book, none of this worked.
The age gap was felt and not in a good sense. Usually the younger participant has to be mature for dynemic to work and for age gap to not become an issue. With Malee I couldn't get past the fact that she was a GIRL in everything she did. On the other hand we have Max who is a MAN - no more explanation needed.
Add the whole ''they are from very different backgrounds'' and everything got worse.
I understand the secrecy, but c'mon - everything felt highschool-ish. Show me a guy in his mid 30's who will sneek around, hide his relationship, see his woman twice a week (if even) in a gym, writting and leaving her notes...it felt so childish and it worked for Malee, but it seemed so ridiculous for Max.
It also bothered me that I pictured him with someone very different. I didn't feel the chemistry between them, I felt as a cultural difference would be far more difficult in reality, but for some reason was also over exaggerated in the book and fell flat to me.
There were other little things I liked and disliked in this book, but the main issues are those described.
All in all, was just OK, a bit meh read.
3 stars.
October 5, 2017
Sweet and will tug at your heartstrings
What happens when two people so right for each other collide. It’s instant attraction for both Max and Malee but there are lots of obstacles before they find happily everafter. This is their story and journey in overcoming hurdles to find a chance at love.
Malee risks her father’s reprimand and chances a takeout delivery to Brothers Ink Tattoo shop, wanting a momentary escape from the family restaurant. There she meets tall, handsome Maxwell O’Rourke, and he’s instantly intrigued by her beauty, but she’s not responding to his words. Malee is deaf. Soon enough, Liam is helping Max communicate to Malee through sign language. Who knew his brother had working knowledge of sign language. With Liam’s help, Max learns enough to communicate with Malee. Their romance is sweet, tender and heartwarming, but their moments together are stolen. Malee is a dutiful daughter of a very traditional and proud Asian household. Her father wants to arrange a marriage with a Thai man. Melee loves Max but is conflicted over obeying her father who does not approve of Max. Can Malee finally choose how to live her life and find happiness with the kind-hearted man she loves, or be burdened down by tradition and duty to family?
I was drawn to this story that gripped me from the start. Such an unlikely pair, and with a heroine that is so sweet she was able to bring a big alpha man to his knees. I was frustrated for both Max and Malee as they find ways to be together. The story is exceedingly sweet and will tug at your heartstrings. I love how Ms. James handles Malee’s vulnerability and her deafness, but also writes her as a strong heroine. And Max is such a sweetheart, there is more to this man who feels a sense of community with the town and his home. He reaches out with Ben, a little boy nearly abandoned by his alcoholic father, and the lady next door to Ben’s home. A wonderful story.
Maxwell is the second book in the Brothers Ink Tattoo series and can be read as a standalone. I’m looking to Liam’s story next.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
What happens when two people so right for each other collide. It’s instant attraction for both Max and Malee but there are lots of obstacles before they find happily everafter. This is their story and journey in overcoming hurdles to find a chance at love.
Malee risks her father’s reprimand and chances a takeout delivery to Brothers Ink Tattoo shop, wanting a momentary escape from the family restaurant. There she meets tall, handsome Maxwell O’Rourke, and he’s instantly intrigued by her beauty, but she’s not responding to his words. Malee is deaf. Soon enough, Liam is helping Max communicate to Malee through sign language. Who knew his brother had working knowledge of sign language. With Liam’s help, Max learns enough to communicate with Malee. Their romance is sweet, tender and heartwarming, but their moments together are stolen. Malee is a dutiful daughter of a very traditional and proud Asian household. Her father wants to arrange a marriage with a Thai man. Melee loves Max but is conflicted over obeying her father who does not approve of Max. Can Malee finally choose how to live her life and find happiness with the kind-hearted man she loves, or be burdened down by tradition and duty to family?
I was drawn to this story that gripped me from the start. Such an unlikely pair, and with a heroine that is so sweet she was able to bring a big alpha man to his knees. I was frustrated for both Max and Malee as they find ways to be together. The story is exceedingly sweet and will tug at your heartstrings. I love how Ms. James handles Malee’s vulnerability and her deafness, but also writes her as a strong heroine. And Max is such a sweetheart, there is more to this man who feels a sense of community with the town and his home. He reaches out with Ben, a little boy nearly abandoned by his alcoholic father, and the lady next door to Ben’s home. A wonderful story.
Maxwell is the second book in the Brothers Ink Tattoo series and can be read as a standalone. I’m looking to Liam’s story next.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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