It was something I thrived on once. Something that I longed to have in my life every day, and when I found it at a young age, I clung to it. I snatched up the boy as fast as I could, intending to make him mine forever.
Commitment
I never expected my marriage to turn out the way it did. I never expected for my husband to let me go. For that love that I had invested in to come crumbling down around me. Something that once gave me such great joy.
Him
After the pieces of myself broke, I was surprised to find a man who was willing to pick them up, to catch me as I fell. What he wanted from me though, I didn’t know if I could give him. All he wanted was for me to let him in.
Say a big welcome to brand new author Jordan Bates, as her debut novel will knock you off your feet and break your heart in the process. The Inkwell Chronicles is going to be a series to keep an eye on.
In this first book, we meet Alexa, who just got her dream job working at a publishing company, and Max, owner of said company.
What I love most about this book is that Max squirms his way into the reader's heart, just like he squirms his way in to Alexa's. Also there is an instant love I had for these characters. Sure, I want to punch them both on occasion, but I also felt deeply for Alexa and my heart hurt for her and Max. Their relationship will tug on your heartstring.
So why the five stars for this one? Because of how deeply I connected with the characters. There is such an element of truth to this book. The fear of new beginnings. The pain and heartache you go through only to come out stronger. The insecurities that will eat you up from the inside out. Ultimately, the fear of letting someone one in. And that's what I loved. Because when your forever breaks, who do you turn to?
Its funny how your life can change within the blink of an eye.
Alexa is on a new journey; recently moved, starting a new job, and reunited with her best friend, what more could a girl need.... Sounds perfect, right?
Sometimes our journeys in life throw twist and turns that we don't expect... Sometimes those twist are completely life changing and there is nothing we can do about it but hold on for the ride.
My favorite type of character are the ones that are beautifully broken. The ones that have a past and overcome even though it is hard and it hurts, this book has those.
This story and these characters are heart wrenching. I have been super excited about this book since I first heard about it and I was not disappointed! I can't wait for more of The Ink Well Chronicles and more of Jordan Bates mind.
Going into this, I had no idea what to prepare for. Would this be a traditional love story? Would there be angst? Anger? Sorrow? Somehow, Jordan Bates took a twist on love that I hadn’t experience before. Alexa is married, Max is irresistible and beautiful and intense. Alexa personifies the wonder in finding who you really are even if you’ve already been on a path for so long, being able to take the reigns of her life and move forward. I won’t lie there is definitely angst, heartache and sadness. But there is heat, passion and so much love. Let Me In took me by surprise and I loved every second.
Okay yall. It's time for me to write this very late (sorry, Jordan!!!) review for Jordan Bates debut novel!!
I have been so worried about writing this, simply because I feel like I wont have the right words to express how much I love it, and how great the writing is. It always impress me when I have the opportunity to read someones debut novel, especially when I get to experience early insight and get to watch the story grow along the way. So I might be extra attached to Max and Alexa. <3
Alexa experiences more than her share of heart ache pretty early on in the story. And it sucks. I mean it just sucks so much. And while part of it is hinted at and obvious, things are still surprising when they actually play out. I love a little surprise or shocking moment in these types of novels, as opposed to the many predictable things we often see in romance. And while Alexa's indecisiveness may frustrate you sometimes, she is still lovable and real. Everyone has flaws, and that may be hers.
Max is swoon worthy, of course! Not controlling, not the wrong type of jealous... he is compassionate and understanding. And he accepts her - flaws and all. HE doesn't try to change her, and she doesn't try to change him. They just work, regardless of how she may try to fight it.
The side characters are easily fun to have around and I can't wait for more of them!!!
Also, I love the title of the series, "The Ink Well Chronicles"... gah! I just love it so much!! I love that Alexa is a reader and writer, that will sit well with many romance readers. She is our kind of girl!
I can't help myself, I am just so freaking excited about this, and excited that Jordan has published her first novel! No doubt there will be many more to come! Thank you for letting me be a part of your process and thank you for the friendship that came with it. CONGRATS!!!
**ARC kindly provided by the author so that we could talk about how exciting this was and I could gush about her and her book (unsolicited) in my review**
I absolutely loved Let Me In! You guys Jordan Bates' debut novel is so sweet and good I'm honestly sad I finished it.
My heart literally for Alexa broke and everything she had to deal with, I can't believe Adam strung her along like that and then the way he planned on telling her his big secret. Horrible!
And Max! I love reading a book with a strong male character who's not afraid to share their feelings no matter how risky it might be. I loved how he stood by Alexa when Adam came to confront her and how he automatically said she was "his".
Even though a lot of the reviews point out it's an office romance I found it to be so much more then that. Alexa and Max were both scared and fragile characters who happened to meet each other at work, it happens, right.
This book literally made me laugh out loud (The scene where Erica and Lilly are outside the bedroom door listening) it made me say As***, a few times (Adam of course) I cried both happy tears and sad ones because this book pulls the heart strings and swooned over Max, not only does he own Ink Well but he reads too.
If you haven't already looked into Let Me In, you really should you won't be disappointed.
Thank you Jordan Bates for such a lovely book, I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
This is a brand new author with what seems to be the first in a new series and you can sign me up right now! Loved this book, the way the writing flowed, the plot moved swiftly and the characters were developed and I felt a connection to Alexa and Max. Alexa's life seems to be pretty much on track, married to her high school sweetheart, moved to a new city with her dream job and close to her best friend. When her life implodes, she turns to her boss, Max, to help her through. I am definitely looking forward to the next book.
LET ME IN is Jordan Bates' debut novel, a poignant contemporary office romance about an editor and her boss. Max fell in love with Alexa at first sight. But she was a married woman then. It was only when her marriage was shattered before her very eyes that he strengthened his decision to make her his. It took a lot for her to let him in. But Max showed her that he was always there for Alexa, and that she deserved all the love he could give.
Max was depicted as a playboy at first but in turned out that he was absolutely devoted to Alexa. Alexa had a lot of emotional baggage and what happened to her was heart-wrenching. But she was blessed with good friends, a job that she loved, and a man who totally accepted and adored her. There was a scene in this book that had me bawling. But overall this book was a mix of romance, angst, and steam. This was a fantastic debut novel by the author!
I have read an advanced copy of this book and this is a fair and honest review and recommendation voluntarily shared.
Let me in had me hooked from the very beginning. Alexa and Max are instantly hooked, but there is a catch. She's married, for now. Max knows she's the one, and is just waiting for his chance. And once he gets it, he pulls out every trick to show her what love is. But Alexa is hiding one huge secret. Can this secret break Max's heart? One click this amazing book to find out. Let Me In was a absolutely amazing debut book for Jordan Bates. I can't wait to see what's next for Jordan.
This is my first book my Jordan Bates & won't be the last as I plan to jump straight into the next series. I think Max was totally the hero of this book & was swoon worthy right from the start.
When life throws you a curveball that you could have never imagined in a million years, what would any sane person do? They would surround themselves with those who care about them. Through the good times and bad, Max's sheer love and friendship shines through. Watching Alexa grow as an independent yet loved woman was a pleasure to read through this debut novel. Highly recommend this read by Jordan Bates if you're looking for love, drama, and a man who pushes past all the walls.
I received and voluntary reviewed an ARC of this book.
WOW what a way to start out. So proud of you Jordan this is a exciting new journey you are taking us on. Alexa and Max are both frustrating and loveable characters. When the attraction is so strong can you really fight it and win? Alexa is one strong woman who has been broken in the worst way, what will it take to make her trust again?
Again a wonderful story. I can't wait for the rest of the series. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey.
*Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot* Oh my freaking goodness what an incredible debut novel from the extraordinarily talented Jordan Bates. Damn girl I can't believe that it has taken me this long to finally sit down and read it. I guess I will just blame it on my busy life...Yeah we'll go with that!
Let Me In is the first book in The Ink Well Chronicles and let me just say that I was instantly captivated by the story! Alexa never expected that her marriage was going to fall apart when she accepted a job The Ink Well, but all I can say is good riddance because he was a jerk. Now enter Max, her boss and the swoon worthy guy that is about to pick up the pieces of her broken heart. That is if she will let him.
This story will take readers on an emotional rollercoaster that you'll never want to get off of. Alexa and Max's chemistry was off the charts and I freaking loved these two. Readers will experience a great deal of angst and heartbreak while reading this book, but let's not forget about the love the bled from the pages. It was an absolutely amazing read and I can't wait to dive into the Lilly and Greg’s story next!
I think anyone would be amazed to know that Jordan Bates is a first time author. You would never guess this after reading this book. The characters were very well defined and the plot flowed freely. I was hooked from the start and read almost the entire book in one sitting. I appreciate that the book can act as a stand alone but look forward to reading the next book in the series. This is a must read!
This was my first book by this author and im not sure how I feel about her style of writing... The story felt all over the place, the transition didn’t flow at all and I just couldn’t connect with the characters... Max was a little creepy and too farward, it felt like him and Alexa knew each other from a previous life and I thought a major plot twist was going to take place.. But NOPE, he was just creepy... I get how the author was trying to make him come off as alpha, but it didn’t work for me... Alexa was wishy washy... Her story with Adam was a waste... I needed more from this book...
In Let Me In, Alexa had a fresh start with a new job, in a new city. After years of putting her needs, wants, and dreams in the back burner Alexa got to start her career. This fresh start included friendship. Let Me In had great character introductions. Minor and main characters included important and relevant growth that added to the story line.
However, I felt the relationship moved too quickly and the instant connection caught me off guard. The way Adam handled the situation with Alexa was unexpected and shocking. Although, this circumstance carved the path for new opportunities which became the sole purpose of Alexa's new life. I didn't like the conversations Alexa had with herself over-analyzing Max's thoughts and actions. The one-sided point of view contributed to this. I much rather prefer dual points of view to avoid one character deciding what the other character feels or thinks. I felt Alexa's character didn't reflect that of a woman who had been in a relationship for six years nor married three of them. When she met Max she behaved as if she had no experience. I sensed a huge age gap between them, as well.
The story progressed slowly, yet quickly in some regards. I loved the close knit family Alexa created in her new job. I loved how easily the friendships formed. Alexa's character had an element of hope by building her self-worth.
Alexa's character had some flaws that bothered me. One in particular was her inability to learn from past mistakes by confronting the issue at hand instead of running scared. Alexa seemed too timid and uncertain of her feelings at times. Max's character was very forward with his interest in Alexa except I wasn't convinced. There were not enough words to convey these feelings. Max's character seemed to control the direction of the relationship while Alexa controlled the pace. Adam's character was confusing. Saying one thing then doing something different by claiming Alexa couldn't be with another guy.
I liked that the characters began as friends moved into lovers then progressed into partners. That was healthy considering the obsession was quick. I liked the characters career path in the editing and publishing world.
The themes of this book were of acceptance, hope, love, friendship, and trust. “I promise to take you as you are, but only if you can take me as I am.” I liked this quote. This was book one in The Ink Well Chronicles. Each book in the series is a standalone. Book one was Max and Alexa's story. Looks like book two will be Greg and Lilly's story.
I received a copy for an honest review review and I have to say I am really happy I did! Jordan is a new author to me that I heard about through I heard about through a reading group I am in and wow just... wow. The twists in the book will make your head spin and the emotional roller coasters will make you want to strangle some of her characters! Life is always changing and for Alexa it has had some major emotional effects as it has, but nothing quite prepares her for what happens when she moves to Georgia for a new job. She moves there and is staying with her best friend while her husband finishes up the last of his work and prepares to start his new job also in Georgia. Let’s just say there are some loose ends he should have dealt with a little more honestly. While Alexa gets settled into her new job she finds her self drawn the the owner of the publishing company she works for, but wouldn’t dream of hurting her husband Adam by cheating. Playboy Max also finds himself drawn to Alexa like no other woman before. You definitely need to check out this story full of emotions, self discovery, love, and.... VERY HOT sex scenes. 😉
Officially rating 3.5 but I know this is a debut novel, so congrats on getting this book out there Jordan. I read these books a littke bit backwards reading No way in Hell first. When I first seen the cover for this book, it drags you in but to be honest it took me most of the book to get into this one. I loved Max but Alexa was confusing as hell, one minute she was confident the next she didn't know her ass from her elbow. The story was a second chance on love for Alexa and a playboy to domestic bliss for Max. Their journey starts at her new office job where she practically seems to run the show as soon as she planks her bum at her desk. Max will do anything for her but after being treated like rubbish she thinks history will repeat itself, but love wins out bad all's good, but is it? Once secrets are out will they get an HEA?
On Way in Hell is based on Alexa's best friend Lilly and Max's best friend Gregg. I've already read it and know I really enjoyed it.
I freaking loved this book!! I was hooked from the beginning.
My heart broke for Alexa. She went through so much stuff. I applaud Max for going after what he wants.
When Max and Alexa first meet she is married even tho it don't last long, there was an instant attraction between the 2. Max stood by and waited the perfect time to express his feelings.
Alexa's husband Adam is a douchebag ugh!! And he had went to confront Alexa and Max stepped in and called her *his* omg I swooned so freaking hard!!!!
Ok I'm stopping I'm gonna spoil something and nobody likes that!! Buy this book yall!!! Ya won't regret it!!!
This is the debut novel from this author and the first book in The Ink Well Series. I do have to say at the outset that this story was not fully to my liking, however, that is not to say that others will feel the same. If you are someone who likes drama filled dialogue & uber angsty characters then you will like this story....there was just too much of it for me. The first quarter of the book went along quite well, but then the story took a turn that to me was just plain confusing & left me asking 'why?' To expand on this I must give away a few spoilers & I really detest doing this. The fallout between Alexa & her husband happened so suddenly & so bizarrely it just wasn't plausible to me & to have Adam act the way he did when he instigated the breakup & divorce just doesn't make sense. I also wasn't sold on the attraction between Max & Alexa...it was way too quick & Max's feelings toward Alexa without knowing her in any way baffled me really. However, I will say that the last few chapters saved this book from being a non rater for me. The connection between Alexa & Max, once all the drama was sorted, was noticeable which made their eventual sexual encounters & happily ever after enjoyable to read. I rate this book 3⛧
This was a cute read. All of the elements for a solid romance novel were there but it was a little disjointed and choppy. You will get the gist of the heart of the story, and that makes it enjoyable. However, there was a lot of story that was glossed over. Points, issues, and bits of storyline were left to the imagination but could have solidified this as a great read.
Alexa has moved to Atlanta, Georgia to start a new life with her husband. She's got a job she likes and is excited for him to finish his work in California and come to Georgia. The distance strains their relationship but she feels that once he's with her life will work itself out and they will be happy.
Max owns the company Alexa works for. The moment he sees her he falls in love. He wants nothing more than to be close to her and get to know her.
Although Max makes Alexa uncomfortable in the best way, she keeps her distance. Until the day her world crashes down around her. Lost, alone, and hurting, Alexa needs someone to hold her up. But can she allow that person to be Max? Can she let him in?
I absolutely loved this story. I connected to these characters in ways that I have never connected to characters before. This story is moving and romantic. One heartbreak leads to one perfect true love.❤️
When Lilly moves because her husband’s job had him relocating, she never expected long kept secrets to come to light once the move was final. Nor did she expect Max, the one who won’t give up on trying to get her attention. The chemistry between Lilly and Max is undeniable and once Lilly learns of Adam’s secrets what else does she have to keep her from falling desperately in love with Max? Nothing!
Jordan Bates. I absolutely loved this book...sigh! You had me at the first word to the last in cheering for Alexa and Max. Alexa has moved to a new city, to a new job, and is waiting for the arrival of her husband. She is dealt a blow when her husband arrives and informs her that he filed for divorce, and has found another woman to marry all because she is a disappointment to him in not being able to have children. Max loves Alexa and waits patiently for Alexa to grieve. I loved the strength that Max has for Alexa and himself as they navigate this fast moving relationship. I can't wait to read the next book.❤
Alexa moves from California to Atlanta, GA for her husband's job but comes before him so she can get settled. And does she! This is story of new chances, new adventures, new love. It's a lovely, quick read, with a great pace. You'll enjoy the liveliness of Alexa's work and personal life. Jordan Bates does a great job of giving enough detail that you can really see what the environment is like - like when Alexa moves in with her friend Lilly and they are going through the box of dishes and such from her previous life in California. Max is Alexa's new love interest and he's every bit the protective alpha male who patiently get her through touch times and waits for her to come around. This is the first in the series and the way book ends, it's a little of a cliff hanger but not huge. Seems the next book will be about Lilly and her love interest, Greg. And if it's anything like this one, it'll be a pleasant read with some steamy sex scenes, lots of antics and laughter amongst the group of friends.
What a freaking fantastic book from a debut author. I am so impressed with the writing and the plot of this book, and fell in love with the characters from the very beginning. This book takes your on a rollercoaster ride that you just never know when it will end. Just when it seems like you are heading in one direction you quickly turn somewhere else. When life throws several curve balls, a person cannot help but feel out of control and confused. It takes a strong person to realize not every thing will be perfect in life, but never stop fighting. When love seems impossible will fighting for it make it possible? This is a story that will stand the test of time. this will be a book that will grab hold to the reader and never let them go. Amazing!! Thank you for allowing me to read this and write a honest review.
This was a great debut novel for Jordan Bates! I absolutely loved the characters. Alexa was everything you want a heroine to be in any romance novel while being just a little bit confused at the same time. Her strength was amazing to read though. Throughout the crap hands she was dealt, she never wavered in who she was or her strength to get through it. Max was just the perfect swoon-worthy hero. I couldn't have imagined a more perfectly written guy for Alexa. Their interactions were perfect and so well-written. This one was hard to put down. The supporting characters made this one even better, and I cannot wait for more from Jordan!
Jordan's debut novel reads like a seasoned author's work. She takes the characters and brings them to life! The story of finding your soul mate when you thought you were already married to him is heart wrenchingly amazing! This was more than a story but an adventure in love, loss, and finding your true self!
This book has characters you fall in love with, others that you love to hate. You get so lost in the world the author has created. Alexa is such a lovable character, she battles with self confidence a little, but knows what her career goals are. Max, he is like a dream man, he will do everything in his power to make Alexa happy and keep her safe. This is the second book I have read by Jordan Bates, and she is quickly becoming a one-click author for me. I just need to read them all.