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Inked #1
Unraveled
Clay:
My mind and body are full of chaos; the only time I can truly feel free is when my hands, arms, and legs are secured. Just because I want to be bound, able to give over my pleasure entirely to another person, doesn’t mean I want to be controlled, humiliated, or made to endure pain. I’m a successful, happy, confident adult man who wants a lover to tie him up. Why is that so scandalous? And why is it so difficult to find? It doesn’t help that I’ve developed a hopeless crush on my straight roommate. Maybe a fulfilling relationship isn’t in the cards for me.
Max:
I’m completely out of control of my life. My ex is trying to take my daughter away from me... again, my dream of owning my own motorcycle repair shop seems out of reach, and somehow, I find myself a thirty-two-year-old man who can’t afford to have a place without a roommate. So, it’s no huge surprise that the idea of being given complete control over someone’s body and pleasure is a major turn-on. I never had any inkling I might be into guys, until my best friend told me he likes to be tied up. Now I’m losing sleep, imagining him bound and begging for me. I can’t figure out if it’s just the kink or if it’s possible I’m falling for him.
My mind and body are full of chaos; the only time I can truly feel free is when my hands, arms, and legs are secured. Just because I want to be bound, able to give over my pleasure entirely to another person, doesn’t mean I want to be controlled, humiliated, or made to endure pain. I’m a successful, happy, confident adult man who wants a lover to tie him up. Why is that so scandalous? And why is it so difficult to find? It doesn’t help that I’ve developed a hopeless crush on my straight roommate. Maybe a fulfilling relationship isn’t in the cards for me.
Max:
I’m completely out of control of my life. My ex is trying to take my daughter away from me... again, my dream of owning my own motorcycle repair shop seems out of reach, and somehow, I find myself a thirty-two-year-old man who can’t afford to have a place without a roommate. So, it’s no huge surprise that the idea of being given complete control over someone’s body and pleasure is a major turn-on. I never had any inkling I might be into guys, until my best friend told me he likes to be tied up. Now I’m losing sleep, imagining him bound and begging for me. I can’t figure out if it’s just the kink or if it’s possible I’m falling for him.
315 pages, ebook
First published February 8, 2018
562 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Neuhold
101 books3,300 followersK.M.Neuhold has long since been a romance junkie. When she’s not writing she’s reading or spending time snuggling with her husky or her husband. She fell in love with M/M romance last year and hasn’t been able to turn back. There’s nothing she loves more than love in all its forms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
January 11, 2019
2.5 Hearts
I'm bummed this didn't WOW me. It has good stuff in it that filled me with excite at the outset: kinky, big Italian guy with long hair, rope bondage, friends to lovers... did I mention rope bondage? Lookit, this book will be and has been a win for many. It's very sweet, low angst and has a nice HEA that's achieved with little conflict.
True, you'll probably need to suspend disbelief but there's nothing wrong with that! Everyone needs a light, feel good escape from reality sometimes. In this case, it comes in the form of the tried and true turning the straight guy gay trope with a twist of then making said straight guy a quasi dominant for your bondage needs.
Max nor Clay are well crafted characters and I didn't care for Max, the way his "alpha-ness" was portrayed particularly grated. Clay was more likable with his anxieties and propensity to compulsively clean when stressed. He's also adorable with Max's daughter.
Their friends to lovers romance was straightforward but lacked the depth of emotion that could've made this story richer. It felt rushed and could've done with a challenge or two that would've required them to persevere through thereby strengthening their bond instead of fast-forwarding through major life decisions. I also didn't care for how Max's bisexuality was portrayed.
However, it is very sexy and I wasn't unaffected by how smitten they are with one another. It's not particularly kinky if that's an obstacle, it needn't be; it's more kinky lite, if you will. For me the kink only scratched the psychological surface and lacked the grit that I crave.
Even though this was mostly a miss for me I do recognize how sweet it is and that fluffiness in and of itself is appealing, so I would encourage anyone interested to look at the other reviews before making a final decision.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Win some. Lose some.
I'm bummed this didn't WOW me. It has good stuff in it that filled me with excite at the outset: kinky, big Italian guy with long hair, rope bondage, friends to lovers... did I mention rope bondage? Lookit, this book will be and has been a win for many. It's very sweet, low angst and has a nice HEA that's achieved with little conflict.
True, you'll probably need to suspend disbelief but there's nothing wrong with that! Everyone needs a light, feel good escape from reality sometimes. In this case, it comes in the form of the tried and true turning the straight guy gay trope with a twist of then making said straight guy a quasi dominant for your bondage needs.
Max nor Clay are well crafted characters and I didn't care for Max, the way his "alpha-ness" was portrayed particularly grated. Clay was more likable with his anxieties and propensity to compulsively clean when stressed. He's also adorable with Max's daughter.
Their friends to lovers romance was straightforward but lacked the depth of emotion that could've made this story richer. It felt rushed and could've done with a challenge or two that would've required them to persevere through thereby strengthening their bond instead of fast-forwarding through major life decisions. I also didn't care for how Max's bisexuality was portrayed.
However, it is very sexy and I wasn't unaffected by how smitten they are with one another. It's not particularly kinky if that's an obstacle, it needn't be; it's more kinky lite, if you will. For me the kink only scratched the psychological surface and lacked the grit that I crave.
Even though this was mostly a miss for me I do recognize how sweet it is and that fluffiness in and of itself is appealing, so I would encourage anyone interested to look at the other reviews before making a final decision.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 8, 2019
3.5*
Full review to come.
I'm here now! Lots to like in this latest edition to the Heathens Ink series from KM Neuhold not least of which was the care given to Max and his unassuming acceptance of Clay and all his anxieties and his kinks.
The sexual realisation aspect of Max becoming attuned to his attraction to Clay and his bisexuality was also handled very well and with sensitivity. I truly believed Max's awakening and his dawning awareness that he'd been in love with Clay for a long time without realising he was also attracted to him sexually.
I loved the Shibari, Clay's need for it was well expressed and Max's desire once he saw the ropes and twigged on to what they were for, and their first experience together was beautifully written.
The only thing which stopped me rating it higher was Clay's martyr complex! For various reasons, there is a complication to their relationship which I won't spoil, but the angsty because of Clay's anxieties - which I accept were totally a real thing - just maybe went on a tad too long for me.
Eventually though there is a glorious ending and a really lovely Epilogue which pulls all the narrative back together and gave me a nice happy smile.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Full review to come.
I'm here now! Lots to like in this latest edition to the Heathens Ink series from KM Neuhold not least of which was the care given to Max and his unassuming acceptance of Clay and all his anxieties and his kinks.
The sexual realisation aspect of Max becoming attuned to his attraction to Clay and his bisexuality was also handled very well and with sensitivity. I truly believed Max's awakening and his dawning awareness that he'd been in love with Clay for a long time without realising he was also attracted to him sexually.
I loved the Shibari, Clay's need for it was well expressed and Max's desire once he saw the ropes and twigged on to what they were for, and their first experience together was beautifully written.
The only thing which stopped me rating it higher was Clay's martyr complex! For various reasons, there is a complication to their relationship which I won't spoil, but the angsty because of Clay's anxieties - which I accept were totally a real thing - just maybe went on a tad too long for me.
Eventually though there is a glorious ending and a really lovely Epilogue which pulls all the narrative back together and gave me a nice happy smile.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
April 20, 2018
(Update to review after Audible listen 04/20/18)
Wow. This book. What can I say other than Wow that was HOT. I loved this story, but I also really like Shibari (Japanese Rope Bondage). And you can tell the Author did their research on this one. It wasn’t just written as the usual D/S Bondage between Max and Clay. It was sweet that Max took the time to really figure out what Clay needed from the Relationship and didn’t just jump right in once he figured out what he wanted as well. That for both of them it's not about pain, or humiliation, or really any dominance and submission. Its just all about the bondage. They both took their time thinking everything out, and went from being Roommates and Best Friends, to Lovers with some kink. I just wish it was a little longer with More Shibari scenes. But overall a really good book. This is a "Spin-off" to Heathens Ink and includes some of the characters from previous books as well. So I cant wait to see what the Author creates next in this series of books.
Audio - Kenneth did Great with this one, it was such a pleasure listening to this book, and it might actually be bumped up to my favorite audio in this series. I liked the difference he put into the voices for Clay and Max making them both unique, to stand out from each other but still the story flowed seamlessly. I'm sure I will be doing a re-listen to this one soon.
Wow. This book. What can I say other than Wow that was HOT. I loved this story, but I also really like Shibari (Japanese Rope Bondage). And you can tell the Author did their research on this one. It wasn’t just written as the usual D/S Bondage between Max and Clay. It was sweet that Max took the time to really figure out what Clay needed from the Relationship and didn’t just jump right in once he figured out what he wanted as well. That for both of them it's not about pain, or humiliation, or really any dominance and submission. Its just all about the bondage. They both took their time thinking everything out, and went from being Roommates and Best Friends, to Lovers with some kink. I just wish it was a little longer with More Shibari scenes. But overall a really good book. This is a "Spin-off" to Heathens Ink and includes some of the characters from previous books as well. So I cant wait to see what the Author creates next in this series of books.
Audio - Kenneth did Great with this one, it was such a pleasure listening to this book, and it might actually be bumped up to my favorite audio in this series. I liked the difference he put into the voices for Clay and Max making them both unique, to stand out from each other but still the story flowed seamlessly. I'm sure I will be doing a re-listen to this one soon.
October 25, 2022
Could you not be bothered to write a few more words for the finish? I was just crying when there was the reunion, a quick sex scene and the question of whether to get married .... and then whoosh - the end. Not funny, never heard of letting people down gently? 😡😡😡
Except for the abrupt ending, the book was perfect for me. The dynamic between Max and Clay is wonderful. Clay's need for bondage is beautifully expressed and it's adorable how Max responds to it. 🥰🥰🥰
For those of you who are more hesitant about BDSM: it's super light here, I wouldn't even call it BDSM. For Clay it's about absolute trust and release. It's not a domination game.
For some people, being tied up from time to time is a great way to spice up their relationship once they know and trust their partner. But for me, it’s a necessity, a desperate and deep craving. I need to be restrained and give my pleasure entirely over to my partner. Not only is it the one-time my mind is ever quiet and calm, but it’s also the only way I have satisfying orgasms.
Except for the abrupt ending, the book was perfect for me. The dynamic between Max and Clay is wonderful. Clay's need for bondage is beautifully expressed and it's adorable how Max responds to it. 🥰🥰🥰
For those of you who are more hesitant about BDSM: it's super light here, I wouldn't even call it BDSM. For Clay it's about absolute trust and release. It's not a domination game.
For some people, being tied up from time to time is a great way to spice up their relationship once they know and trust their partner. But for me, it’s a necessity, a desperate and deep craving. I need to be restrained and give my pleasure entirely over to my partner. Not only is it the one-time my mind is ever quiet and calm, but it’s also the only way I have satisfying orgasms.
September 25, 2018
Holy moly, this was utter hotness.
Gonna be honest: When I saw the cover, my immediate thought was hardcore BDSM which isn't my thing. (nothing wrong with it, it just doesn't do it for me). BUT I've been on a KM Neuhold binge and didn't want to miss out.
I absolutely LOVED this and LOVED that the BDSM element was light, even if the bondage was not. And I didn't know bondage could be so hot. **fans self**
Even though these two kind of don't fit in with the rest of the Heathens family, they may be two of my favorite characters from this series. Then again, I say that about every Heathens couple depending on which book I'm reading lol.
Gonna be honest: When I saw the cover, my immediate thought was hardcore BDSM which isn't my thing. (nothing wrong with it, it just doesn't do it for me). BUT I've been on a KM Neuhold binge and didn't want to miss out.
I absolutely LOVED this and LOVED that the BDSM element was light, even if the bondage was not. And I didn't know bondage could be so hot. **fans self**
Even though these two kind of don't fit in with the rest of the Heathens family, they may be two of my favorite characters from this series. Then again, I say that about every Heathens couple depending on which book I'm reading lol.
April 9, 2018
4.25 stars
I am so glad that Clay and Max got their story. It was also nice to has the guys from Heathens show up at O'Malley's.
I am so glad that Clay and Max got their story. It was also nice to has the guys from Heathens show up at O'Malley's.
July 27, 2018
3.5 Stars
I have enjoyed most books in this series but this one might be my favorite. Max and Clay with Gigi in the mix are a really lovely love story.
I also liked all the discovered sexuality elements of this friends to lovers romance. It did not feel forced.
Some of the drama is a little extra but over all it is a very nice read with a little side of kink.
I have enjoyed most books in this series but this one might be my favorite. Max and Clay with Gigi in the mix are a really lovely love story.
I also liked all the discovered sexuality elements of this friends to lovers romance. It did not feel forced.
Some of the drama is a little extra but over all it is a very nice read with a little side of kink.
October 3, 2018
**** Here we have book #5 in the Heathens Ink series. We get serious issues that are resolved quickly, in each story. These tales do have previous characters ingrained in each book; it's important to know all of the issues these men have had, and it's fun to learn how they worked out their problems and found love.
Our two men here are not a part of the Ink shop, but are friends of the employees. If you remember, Clay owns On Point, the dance studio Beck works for. I loved Beck, who's a lawyer who wears sexy undies under his suits, and make-up, heels during classes and when he's out and about. Beck is here because Max needs legal help with custody.
* Max is our hot hunk mechanic with long hair and motorcycle, who shares custody of his 7 yr. old daughter, Gigi. Max has a roommate, Clay, dance studio owner, who has a kink that makes it hard to find someone he can trust. The roommates get along great and both men adore Gigi when she comes over.
* Clay needs to be tied up to be able to find his stress release and sexual release.
Max is questioning his choices, and why it has taken until the age of 32 to realize his desire for Clay, and that Max himself is really bi.
Once Clay reveals to Max that he can't trust strangers to give him his kink, Max is all out to figure out every aspect of bondage that he can find. Internet, porn, and Shibari tutorials are used by Max to become savy. With Max's feeling "out" our men get together.
They begin slowly, and it's fun to see their progress.
No BDSM, but there is a bit of D/s and the silky ropes. These two men together are exciting, totally hot, and moving. Max is magnificent, and Clay is amazing. A couple of problems arise, but they handle them together, plus there is the "coming out" to family and friends.
Their ending begins sadly, and I shed tears, but there is hope and an HEA.
I highly recommend this book. ENJOY !
====
Our two men here are not a part of the Ink shop, but are friends of the employees. If you remember, Clay owns On Point, the dance studio Beck works for. I loved Beck, who's a lawyer who wears sexy undies under his suits, and make-up, heels during classes and when he's out and about. Beck is here because Max needs legal help with custody.
* Max is our hot hunk mechanic with long hair and motorcycle, who shares custody of his 7 yr. old daughter, Gigi. Max has a roommate, Clay, dance studio owner, who has a kink that makes it hard to find someone he can trust. The roommates get along great and both men adore Gigi when she comes over.
* Clay needs to be tied up to be able to find his stress release and sexual release.
Max is questioning his choices, and why it has taken until the age of 32 to realize his desire for Clay, and that Max himself is really bi.
Once Clay reveals to Max that he can't trust strangers to give him his kink, Max is all out to figure out every aspect of bondage that he can find. Internet, porn, and Shibari tutorials are used by Max to become savy. With Max's feeling "out" our men get together.
They begin slowly, and it's fun to see their progress.
No BDSM, but there is a bit of D/s and the silky ropes. These two men together are exciting, totally hot, and moving. Max is magnificent, and Clay is amazing. A couple of problems arise, but they handle them together, plus there is the "coming out" to family and friends.
Their ending begins sadly, and I shed tears, but there is hope and an HEA.
I highly recommend this book. ENJOY !
====
March 7, 2018
3.5 stars
Friends to lovers is my favorite trope, and I loved both Max and Clay. Straight, single dad Max and Clay, his gay best friend have been roommates and besties for about five years. Max shares custody of his young daughter, Gigi with her mom, his ex girlfriend/wife (it wasn’t very clear, and honestly doesn’t matter). Clay helps Max out with Gigi, and the three of them were a sweet little family. Clay has had a secret crush on Max, but is convinced he’s straight and would never do anything to jeopardize their friendship. I really liked the friendship between these two very different men. The friendship felt very genuine, it was so obvious they cared for each other and loved hanging out together. Max is surprised to find himself attracted to Clay, and starts to question his own sexuality. I thought Max’s evolving sexuality, the questions and emotions he experiences was handled in a thoughtful way. His feelings toward Clay and his sensitivity to Clay’s issues was sweet and touching. Max came across to me as a genuinely loving and compassionate man, one who wants to take care of those he loves. He and Clay had a beautiful relationship build on mutual respect and trust. Clay experiences anxiety, often to a debilitating extent. His anxiety factors into many aspects of this story. I’ve known a number of people who suffer from terrible anxiety that affects their daily lives, and I appreciated the way it was handled here. I’m no expert, but I found it believable. I've read quite a few books where one or more characters like being tied up, but this was the first time I really understood what it did for the person being bound. At least, what it did for Clay. The scenes were beautifully written, making me feel the sense of calm that Clay experienced only while bound. There were a couple of issues with the main conflict that bothered me. I’m not going to spoil anything, but I will say I have had friends and family members experience a very similar situation as Max, and that just isn’t the way it worked for any of them. I don’t think the author did her homework with regards to this particular subject, and I just didn’t buy into it at all. Clay’s reaction to the conflict, creating even more conflict, was a little melodramatic for me. Just as I was starting to tire of it, it was resolved. I thought the ending was rather abrupt, but maybe I just wasn’t ready for it to be over. I really did enjoy getting to know Clay and Max, and watching the changes in their relationship. I loved Max’s refusal to put labels on himself or for others to label him. The easy acceptance by everyone in his life was a little too good to be true, but I loved it anyway.
Even though Unraveled is the fifth book in K.M. Neuhold’s Heathen’s Ink series, it can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the previous books in the series and I had no problem following the story or keeping the secondary characters straight.
September 1, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So good!
This was such an amazing read. Some things I figured out but others surprised me. Seems Max wasn't the only one who learned some things about himself. I'm fact I think Clay actually learned more about himself. Reactions of a few of the characters surprised be throughout the whole story too. This book is a prime example of why I love this author.
So good!
This was such an amazing read. Some things I figured out but others surprised me. Seems Max wasn't the only one who learned some things about himself. I'm fact I think Clay actually learned more about himself. Reactions of a few of the characters surprised be throughout the whole story too. This book is a prime example of why I love this author.
May 4, 2020
I love this whole group of friends set around the Heathen Ink workplace. This marks the first book in the spin-off series, although we'll still see plenty of the Heathen Ink boys, I'm sure.
KM Neuhold is just great at what she does - characters with plenty of chemistry, plenty of love, and a HEA. I love her stories and recommend this series and pretty much all of her newer works!
KM Neuhold is just great at what she does - characters with plenty of chemistry, plenty of love, and a HEA. I love her stories and recommend this series and pretty much all of her newer works!
February 23, 2018
Sigh…. Okay, so I might have skipped a couple to get here, but the mmm, isn’t really my thing, but, you bet Im gonna go back and read Adam and Nox!
So, okay, in this one, we have Clay and Max, and having only read the first one in this series, I wasn’t familiar with them, but I am a sucker for a hot dad, so… it was a given.
So, Max has shared custody of his daughter Gigi, and seriously, she is so cute…. She has Max and his roommate and best friend Clay, wrapped around her little finger. Clay is a dancer at his own place, and very much out and proud, and Max is his straight bestie…. Trouble, right ?
However, here lately, they’ve been seeing each other in a new light, because Max is gorgeous, and so good with his daughter, and then Clay is so good with Maxs daughter, and they’re best friends, right …. If you’re gonna fall for someone, it should absolutely be your best friend!! In my opinion at least! They’re perfect for each other!
However, Clay has some kinks and he hasn’t had much luck with finding someone compatible in the ast. Nothin major, just a little bit of binding, and rope play… hot right ?
Well, after hearing about it and seeing a picture of Clay bound, Max is intrigued and it opens a world of possibility to both of them.
Things are amazing for a while, but then Maxs ex drops a bombshell on him that she’s leaving and taking his daughter with her….and ya’ll, I know she wasn’t being made to be the bad guy, but I HATED that so much. She was getting married, so presumably already living with the guy and had known him for a while, but you don’t tell your child’s father until you’re already moving…. Nu uh…. Not gonna fly…then tell me that you’re taking said kid across the country and not only is nobody doing anything about it, they take it to a judge and the judge just said, OKAY….. again, no way, honey...NOT GONNA FLY…. But it does…
Say whaaaaaaaaatttttttt ? …. I know, I know… I was thinking the same thing…
Now, while were on the topic of ignorance… Maxs brothers and the way they regarded their brother’s gay bestie, regardless of them not knowing he was with him, was a MAJOR no, no…. I understand ignorance can be forgiven, and they did okay in the end, but… no, I grew up with racist grandparents, and a homophobic family, and still…. By 5 years old, I was crying each time I heard the words they were using and I knew better at 5! My father called me a sympathizer…. Are you kidding me ? ….I didn’t like that either.
Other than that, though, those two things… I loved the way these guys loved each other. I loved how Max knew and loved what Clay needed, and as heartbreaking as it was, Clay knew what Max needed and let him go. Be still my heart right. I was gutted…
The end though, couldn’t have been more perfect, Or, it would’ve been amazing had Gigi got to see her Clay… but, there’ll be other books, right ?
Next time, hopefully.
4 stars from me!
So, okay, in this one, we have Clay and Max, and having only read the first one in this series, I wasn’t familiar with them, but I am a sucker for a hot dad, so… it was a given.
So, Max has shared custody of his daughter Gigi, and seriously, she is so cute…. She has Max and his roommate and best friend Clay, wrapped around her little finger. Clay is a dancer at his own place, and very much out and proud, and Max is his straight bestie…. Trouble, right ?
However, here lately, they’ve been seeing each other in a new light, because Max is gorgeous, and so good with his daughter, and then Clay is so good with Maxs daughter, and they’re best friends, right …. If you’re gonna fall for someone, it should absolutely be your best friend!! In my opinion at least! They’re perfect for each other!
However, Clay has some kinks and he hasn’t had much luck with finding someone compatible in the ast. Nothin major, just a little bit of binding, and rope play… hot right ?
Well, after hearing about it and seeing a picture of Clay bound, Max is intrigued and it opens a world of possibility to both of them.
Things are amazing for a while, but then Maxs ex drops a bombshell on him that she’s leaving and taking his daughter with her….and ya’ll, I know she wasn’t being made to be the bad guy, but I HATED that so much. She was getting married, so presumably already living with the guy and had known him for a while, but you don’t tell your child’s father until you’re already moving…. Nu uh…. Not gonna fly…then tell me that you’re taking said kid across the country and not only is nobody doing anything about it, they take it to a judge and the judge just said, OKAY….. again, no way, honey...NOT GONNA FLY…. But it does…
Say whaaaaaaaaatttttttt ? …. I know, I know… I was thinking the same thing…
Now, while were on the topic of ignorance… Maxs brothers and the way they regarded their brother’s gay bestie, regardless of them not knowing he was with him, was a MAJOR no, no…. I understand ignorance can be forgiven, and they did okay in the end, but… no, I grew up with racist grandparents, and a homophobic family, and still…. By 5 years old, I was crying each time I heard the words they were using and I knew better at 5! My father called me a sympathizer…. Are you kidding me ? ….I didn’t like that either.
Other than that, though, those two things… I loved the way these guys loved each other. I loved how Max knew and loved what Clay needed, and as heartbreaking as it was, Clay knew what Max needed and let him go. Be still my heart right. I was gutted…
The end though, couldn’t have been more perfect, Or, it would’ve been amazing had Gigi got to see her Clay… but, there’ll be other books, right ?
Next time, hopefully.
4 stars from me!
November 21, 2020
I hate it when kids are involved. I was surprised the relationship even existed and Max wasn’t the one climbing the walls but nope. Full steam ahead on ropes and romance. Not forgetting immediate pet names. Where Clay is hesitant, Max takes notes from the guys and does the hold on and doesn’t let go thing.
I liked the relationship and how Max takes time with the care and research, I also liked how G already adores clay. It got a bit melodramatic for me towards the end with the constant I love yous and pining. I didn’t get the sympathy from Jess. She didn’t show any care whatsoever throughout the story. I also didn’t have a clue what Jake was trying to do. Both were sweet characters and it’ll be nice to see them when they’re relaxed and having fun.
I liked the relationship and how Max takes time with the care and research, I also liked how G already adores clay. It got a bit melodramatic for me towards the end with the constant I love yous and pining. I didn’t get the sympathy from Jess. She didn’t show any care whatsoever throughout the story. I also didn’t have a clue what Jake was trying to do. Both were sweet characters and it’ll be nice to see them when they’re relaxed and having fun.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2019
3.5 Stars
This is another of Ms. Neuhold’s sweet, heartwarming romances that comes with some extra spice. Clay’s need for bondage was explained well with as a balance for his personal tics. Max’s “I’m straight” protestations continued a little longer than I liked. He shifted gears pretty quickly once he accepted that he wanted Clay. The characters are decently, if not deeply drawn but along with the pacing, it suited the style of the story. Enjoyable light reading, low angst, no BDSM and a very light touch of D/s.
This is another of Ms. Neuhold’s sweet, heartwarming romances that comes with some extra spice. Clay’s need for bondage was explained well with as a balance for his personal tics. Max’s “I’m straight” protestations continued a little longer than I liked. He shifted gears pretty quickly once he accepted that he wanted Clay. The characters are decently, if not deeply drawn but along with the pacing, it suited the style of the story. Enjoyable light reading, low angst, no BDSM and a very light touch of D/s.
May 21, 2020
Aww Max & Clay 😍😍
What i like about KM Neuhold books is that they make me forget everything for a little bit...
Unraveled is an easy-read full of sweetness and passion 🔥
What i like about KM Neuhold books is that they make me forget everything for a little bit...
Unraveled is an easy-read full of sweetness and passion 🔥
February 26, 2018
3.5 stars - This is a really sweet story. I loved the concept of someone needing bondage without much of the rest that goes with BDSM. Clay knew what he needed and was having a hard time trying to find it. It’s not easy to find someone who understands his need for bondage when it requires a certain degree of trust to feel safe enough to get what you need. So, Clay is struggling to find that someone.
At the same time, there is Max, Clay’s straight roommate and best friend of five years who is dealing with his ex moving across country with their daughter. Max is extremely supportive of Clay and has no problems with him being gay. When he learns about Clay’s bondage needs, it stirs something in him in the form of interest and curiosity, which, little by little, brings them closer together until eventually, Max realizes he has more feelings for Clay.
There is quite a bit of back and forth between the two – Max with am I gay, bi or what, and does it matter; and Clay with but my best friend is straight and I don’t want to do anything that will ruin the friendship. It quickly becomes clear, however, how perfect these guys are for each other.
This story started out pretty strong for me, as I said, I liked the concepts and love friends to lovers, etc. However, once they started taking things a little further, the pet names took front and center and changed the story quite a bit for me. They are used in what felt like almost every interaction they had – from sweetie, lover and sweetheart, to Max’s nickname for Clay – Petal – for the flower tattoos on Clay’s arms. They just felt a bit over the top for me and changed the feel of the story.
But, as I said, this was really sweet. Max helps Clay in so many ways, from his need for bondage to help with his anxiety to helping him step out of his comfort zones in other ways. And Clay was just what Max needed as well, so they really just worked. This wasn’t my favorite of the series, but it was still really enjoyable, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what’s next!
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
At the same time, there is Max, Clay’s straight roommate and best friend of five years who is dealing with his ex moving across country with their daughter. Max is extremely supportive of Clay and has no problems with him being gay. When he learns about Clay’s bondage needs, it stirs something in him in the form of interest and curiosity, which, little by little, brings them closer together until eventually, Max realizes he has more feelings for Clay.
There is quite a bit of back and forth between the two – Max with am I gay, bi or what, and does it matter; and Clay with but my best friend is straight and I don’t want to do anything that will ruin the friendship. It quickly becomes clear, however, how perfect these guys are for each other.
This story started out pretty strong for me, as I said, I liked the concepts and love friends to lovers, etc. However, once they started taking things a little further, the pet names took front and center and changed the story quite a bit for me. They are used in what felt like almost every interaction they had – from sweetie, lover and sweetheart, to Max’s nickname for Clay – Petal – for the flower tattoos on Clay’s arms. They just felt a bit over the top for me and changed the feel of the story.
But, as I said, this was really sweet. Max helps Clay in so many ways, from his need for bondage to help with his anxiety to helping him step out of his comfort zones in other ways. And Clay was just what Max needed as well, so they really just worked. This wasn’t my favorite of the series, but it was still really enjoyable, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what’s next!
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
July 12, 2021
Darum geht's:
Max schuftet in der Familien-Autowerkstatt anstatt Motorräder aufzumotzen, wie er es am liebsten tun würde. Schon viel zu lange hat ihn keine Frau mehr gereizt. Und nun verkündet seine Ex auch noch, dass sie mit ihrem neuen Verlobten ans andere Ende des Landes ziehen will und ihre gemeinsame Tochter mitnimmt. Der einzige Lichtblick für Max ist sein bester Freund und Mitbewohner Clay. Als Max entdeckt, dass Clay auf Bondage steht, formen sich ganz neue Gedanken und Sehnsüchte in seinem Kopf.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Max schuftet in der Familien-Autowerkstatt anstatt Motorräder aufzumotzen, wie er es am liebsten tun würde. Schon viel zu lange hat ihn keine Frau mehr gereizt. Und nun verkündet seine Ex auch noch, dass sie mit ihrem neuen Verlobten ans andere Ende des Landes ziehen will und ihre gemeinsame Tochter mitnimmt. Der einzige Lichtblick für Max ist sein bester Freund und Mitbewohner Clay. Als Max entdeckt, dass Clay auf Bondage steht, formen sich ganz neue Gedanken und Sehnsüchte in seinem Kopf.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
December 12, 2021
This is my first encounter with the Heathens Ink series, but it won't be the last.
I was intrigued by bondage in a different way than you normally see it. Here, it was not about pain, humiliation, or really submission, but about being taken care of, and that resonated with me.
There is some well-written angst here that made me shead a tear. And on top of all that, it's a GFY friends-to-lovers story with children in the mix. Book-love right there.
I was intrigued by bondage in a different way than you normally see it. Here, it was not about pain, humiliation, or really submission, but about being taken care of, and that resonated with me.
There is some well-written angst here that made me shead a tear. And on top of all that, it's a GFY friends-to-lovers story with children in the mix. Book-love right there.
October 22, 2020
3.5 STARS
Be still my heart... this was an adorably kinky and sweet friends to lovers story. Clay and Max are simply perfect for one another, Max just needed to realize it and Clay accept it. This was a sweet, no-angst novel, and exactly what I needed. Not only that but ohhh so many characters I want to read about now!
Be still my heart... this was an adorably kinky and sweet friends to lovers story. Clay and Max are simply perfect for one another, Max just needed to realize it and Clay accept it. This was a sweet, no-angst novel, and exactly what I needed. Not only that but ohhh so many characters I want to read about now!
March 2, 2025
I absolutely love friends-to-lovers and GFY/OFY, so this was a HUGE win for me. Add in the extremely well-written Shibari scenes and how amazing and HOT Max and Clay were together and I was thrilled with this installment of the Heathens Ink series. It wasn't a typical D/s need for bondage, just a need to be taken out of his head and refocused.
February 20, 2018
For some reason the first half of the book, I just couldn’t make an emotional connection with the characters. But the last half of the book was great! It made up for everything. Intense and hot. The whole shibari part was great.
March 21, 2019
Great read. Enjoyable. Great characters.
April 7, 2018
for me this was a bit idifferent i still liked it a lot but a little less than the other couples
August 30, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ 4-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
The cover has a very cut and paste layered look to it. While the title font is great, the author and series font style and color are not strong. Having read the previous books in the series, I opted to borrow this book from #KindleUnlimited to continue the Heathens Ink journey.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Alternating first-person
So, UNRAVELED is still set in the Heathens Ink universe but the main couple are not artists at the shop. Clay is Beck’s best friend (Shattered Pieces, book #4). Mechanic, Max, and Clay have been best friends and roommates for five years now.
Clay suffers severe anxiety and only his bondage kink allows him to find a rare inner peace that calms the chaos in his mind. But finding someone he trusts enough to truss him up has been problematic lately. Max sees his friend’s condition worsening and wants to help but does not know how.
This is a Gay-for-you, first-time gay, Bisexual friends-to-lovers story with some neurotic mannerisms, a sweet six-year-old, and a lot of raw emotions.
Heathens cast members only have a few cameo appearances, aside from Beck, who plays a strong secondary character along with Max’s family.
I enjoyed the story that was told and the writing was smooth enough to allow me to read this in one shot, despite several word errors that the proofreader/editor missed prior to publication.
Predictability was moderate. The conclusion is solid enough to be satisfying and I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see if Max and Clay are updated on.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.25 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I borrowed a copy of this book from Amazon via my #KU subscription and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
The cover has a very cut and paste layered look to it. While the title font is great, the author and series font style and color are not strong. Having read the previous books in the series, I opted to borrow this book from #KindleUnlimited to continue the Heathens Ink journey.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Alternating first-person
So, UNRAVELED is still set in the Heathens Ink universe but the main couple are not artists at the shop. Clay is Beck’s best friend (Shattered Pieces, book #4). Mechanic, Max, and Clay have been best friends and roommates for five years now.
Clay suffers severe anxiety and only his bondage kink allows him to find a rare inner peace that calms the chaos in his mind. But finding someone he trusts enough to truss him up has been problematic lately. Max sees his friend’s condition worsening and wants to help but does not know how.
This is a Gay-for-you, first-time gay, Bisexual friends-to-lovers story with some neurotic mannerisms, a sweet six-year-old, and a lot of raw emotions.
Heathens cast members only have a few cameo appearances, aside from Beck, who plays a strong secondary character along with Max’s family.
I enjoyed the story that was told and the writing was smooth enough to allow me to read this in one shot, despite several word errors that the proofreader/editor missed prior to publication.
Predictability was moderate. The conclusion is solid enough to be satisfying and I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see if Max and Clay are updated on.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.25 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I borrowed a copy of this book from Amazon via my #KU subscription and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
May 3, 2020
2.5⭐️
I have read a couple of other Neuhold books that I have enjoyed quite a lot, but this one was a miss for me. The writing style of this book felt choppy and elementary with an abundance of cliches.
This is a book featuring an MC with intense anxieties and compulsions to the point of being debilitating in a sense. He needs bondage in intimacy and someone to take care of him completely in order to feel grounded and secure.
The other MC is a straight, single (previously kink free) Dad that works in a garage with his cliched, meat head brothers. Then he gets the unexpected announcement that his ex is moving his daughter cross country.
To say that these two had a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to find one another is an understatement. However, that’s not how this book was written. I’m totally on board with light, escapist fluff books. I absolutely enjoy and even need them on occasion. But the obstacles they faced are not problems easily solved with just good ideas and intentions. I felt the angst was so low and their issues so easily resolved that it felt juvenile and a little emotionless. The connection was missing even though it was obvious they were deeply in love with one another.
I’m not going to delve too deep into the kink side of this book other than to say that it felt way too light for the intense need of the MC. There was a chance for deep connection and understanding. There was a chance to lay bare those needs and all that goes with it, but it was a missed chance.
Also, the pet name grated right over all of my nerves. They had been friends and roommates for years and then after one small kiss, one MC immediately gives the other a pet name, seemingly out of nowhere. And it was just so damn weird. It felt forced and trivial and made me cringe every time he used it because it was just so out of character all of a sudden.
That said, Max and Clay were both likable enough characters, if not lacking in depth.
I have read a couple of other Neuhold books that I have enjoyed quite a lot, but this one was a miss for me. The writing style of this book felt choppy and elementary with an abundance of cliches.
This is a book featuring an MC with intense anxieties and compulsions to the point of being debilitating in a sense. He needs bondage in intimacy and someone to take care of him completely in order to feel grounded and secure.
The other MC is a straight, single (previously kink free) Dad that works in a garage with his cliched, meat head brothers. Then he gets the unexpected announcement that his ex is moving his daughter cross country.
To say that these two had a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to find one another is an understatement. However, that’s not how this book was written. I’m totally on board with light, escapist fluff books. I absolutely enjoy and even need them on occasion. But the obstacles they faced are not problems easily solved with just good ideas and intentions. I felt the angst was so low and their issues so easily resolved that it felt juvenile and a little emotionless. The connection was missing even though it was obvious they were deeply in love with one another.
I’m not going to delve too deep into the kink side of this book other than to say that it felt way too light for the intense need of the MC. There was a chance for deep connection and understanding. There was a chance to lay bare those needs and all that goes with it, but it was a missed chance.
Also, the pet name grated right over all of my nerves. They had been friends and roommates for years and then after one small kiss, one MC immediately gives the other a pet name, seemingly out of nowhere. And it was just so damn weird. It felt forced and trivial and made me cringe every time he used it because it was just so out of character all of a sudden.
That said, Max and Clay were both likable enough characters, if not lacking in depth.
January 28, 2020
The following excerpt from this novel not only made me laugh but defines one of the reasons I enjoy MM romance. "Did I expect my soulmate to have a dick? No. But, hell, my own was always fun enough to play with; now, I’ve got a spare." If one hard cock is pleasurable reading, then I am all for doubling that pleasure. But, for it to be a truly good read it stills needs the relationship development.
First-time (gay) is an area I often seek and from another excerpt, which speaks volumes "Oh, I didn't know you were gay." "I don't like labels, but I am dating a man." Love is love, and how the character(s) sort out their unexpected feelings can be interesting.
Normally I give BDSM a pass but this story introduce me to a different 'kink'. B (bondage) without the DSM and I like reading about it (Shibari). No cringing here.
My comments are more about what I like to read but I also found said in this story with the bonus of good humour sprinkled about, a cute child, other good characters and writing that flowed smoothly. The first read by this author but one who I could possibly start following.
Cheers
First-time (gay) is an area I often seek and from another excerpt, which speaks volumes "Oh, I didn't know you were gay." "I don't like labels, but I am dating a man." Love is love, and how the character(s) sort out their unexpected feelings can be interesting.
Normally I give BDSM a pass but this story introduce me to a different 'kink'. B (bondage) without the DSM and I like reading about it (Shibari). No cringing here.
My comments are more about what I like to read but I also found said in this story with the bonus of good humour sprinkled about, a cute child, other good characters and writing that flowed smoothly. The first read by this author but one who I could possibly start following.
Cheers
October 28, 2023
I liked it
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2023...
***Spoilers here and there***
This was a good read. I figured that Max wasn’t fully straight as he said he was. He was had a little bi - in him. I was glad when he figured things out. Because he would’ve missed out on a great relationship with Clay.
Not only that it sucked that his daughter had to move so far away (to New York) . But getting the opportunity to move close to her and not only that had an open opportunity to work (in Philly) on motorcycles at Ace shop was also a plus.
I was glad when Clay finally moved to New Jersey with Max because I was saying to myself now if he don’t stop being scared and actually take that opportunity to be with his man and his daughter. I was glad when he finally gotten the okay from his mom! I think that’s what he needed! Because he wasn’t listening to Beck even though he did agree at the end about leaving to be with Max!
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2023...
***Spoilers here and there***
This was a good read. I figured that Max wasn’t fully straight as he said he was. He was had a little bi - in him. I was glad when he figured things out. Because he would’ve missed out on a great relationship with Clay.
Not only that it sucked that his daughter had to move so far away (to New York) . But getting the opportunity to move close to her and not only that had an open opportunity to work (in Philly) on motorcycles at Ace shop was also a plus.
I was glad when Clay finally moved to New Jersey with Max because I was saying to myself now if he don’t stop being scared and actually take that opportunity to be with his man and his daughter. I was glad when he finally gotten the okay from his mom! I think that’s what he needed! Because he wasn’t listening to Beck even though he did agree at the end about leaving to be with Max!
February 10, 2018
I just finished Unraveled (Heathens Ink #5 on KU) by Kyleen Neuhold, and I absolutely FREAKIN' loved it! 5 stars!! I thought Shattered Pieces was fantastic and her best yet, but this was even better!!! Top notch writing!! The story was wonderful...I couldn't put it down..I even had to tell my hubs to STOP TALKING TO ME because I was busy LOL. It was so sweet, sexy as hell with a little angst, and when it was over I sighed and smiled!! I'm in love with Clay and Max and the rest of the Heathens boys!! I enjoyed every single word of this story. You don't have to read the rest of the series to read this book, but I highly recommend you do.
PSA: This is a love story with a HEA. There is a light bondage element, but it is done so well and is an important part of the story.
PSA: This is a love story with a HEA. There is a light bondage element, but it is done so well and is an important part of the story.
March 22, 2019
3⭐️
I’m sorry, but creating pet names as soon as you become a couple after YEARS as friends is ridiculous. ALSO BDSM is not a fricken cure for mental health issues such as anxiety and OCD. I don’t think I read any actual diagnosis for Clay, but his actions (i.e. always checking the doors three times and obsessive cleaning when anxious) came across as more than occasional situational anxiety. I’m not saying that the author was trying to make BDSM a cure all, but that’s how I read it. That really affected my enjoyment.
maybe I’m just in a crappy mood. Take my review with a grain of salt. YMMV
I’m sorry, but creating pet names as soon as you become a couple after YEARS as friends is ridiculous. ALSO BDSM is not a fricken cure for mental health issues such as anxiety and OCD. I don’t think I read any actual diagnosis for Clay, but his actions (i.e. always checking the doors three times and obsessive cleaning when anxious) came across as more than occasional situational anxiety. I’m not saying that the author was trying to make BDSM a cure all, but that’s how I read it. That really affected my enjoyment.
maybe I’m just in a crappy mood. Take my review with a grain of salt. YMMV
February 23, 2018
Clay. I've adored him for awhile now. His compassion, his love for his friends. Always taking care of everyone but himself. And discovering that the one person who will give him what he needs, what he craves, is best friend Max? Dear, sweet, go-with-the-flow Max? Somehow these two were able to maneuver through the tangled, cluttered, chaotic thoughts in both their minds to figure out that what they both needed was each other.
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