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Rock 'n' Ink #3
Beautiful Wreck
For savvy programmer Gabrielle Alvarez, moving to Portland, Oregon means a fresh start with a blank screen. She wants nothing more than to erase the last traces of her old life, starting with an exotic tattoo to hide an old scar. Gabby’s instantly drawn to the enigmatic artist, who also happens to be her neighbor. Lucky she has no plans to date-especially sexy, brooding men.
Last year, Bowen Landry was the king of broken promises. He made hundreds to his sister to get clean and hundreds more to his band and his boss. But Bowen’s sober now and determined to stay that way. The last thing he needs are complications, especially Gabby with her curves, dry humor, and independent spirit. Gabby spells danger to Bowen’s peace of mind, not to mention his personal promise to stay celibate for one year.
Bowen is content keeping a firewall up between them until a stalker threatens Gabby’s safety. Alone in a new city, she has no choice but to turn to Bowen for help, moving into his apartment after hers is vandalized. While the two grow closer, Bowen can’t make any promises, and Gabby’s not asking. While the inexperienced Gabby can’t deny the charming, reformed bad boy, she’s unsure she can ever trust an addict again. If Bowen can help Gabby forgive her past and his, he may learn to believe in love again.
Last year, Bowen Landry was the king of broken promises. He made hundreds to his sister to get clean and hundreds more to his band and his boss. But Bowen’s sober now and determined to stay that way. The last thing he needs are complications, especially Gabby with her curves, dry humor, and independent spirit. Gabby spells danger to Bowen’s peace of mind, not to mention his personal promise to stay celibate for one year.
Bowen is content keeping a firewall up between them until a stalker threatens Gabby’s safety. Alone in a new city, she has no choice but to turn to Bowen for help, moving into his apartment after hers is vandalized. While the two grow closer, Bowen can’t make any promises, and Gabby’s not asking. While the inexperienced Gabby can’t deny the charming, reformed bad boy, she’s unsure she can ever trust an addict again. If Bowen can help Gabby forgive her past and his, he may learn to believe in love again.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2018
About the author
Kasey Lane
4 books75 followersAward-winning author Kasey Lane writes sexy romances featuring alpha males and the strong women that bring them to their knees. A California transplant, she lives with her high school crush turned husband, two smart, but devilish kids, two dumb-as-rocks Papillons, and a bunch of bossy chickens in the lush Oregon forest. Visit her on line at www.kaseylane.com, on Facebook, on Twitter, or Instagram (@authorkaseylane) where you’ll find her swearing too much and talking about hockey, music, and happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 1, 2018
ARC received for review
This is book three in a series, and I didn't know that when I requested it. It can be read as a stand alone. If you've read the first two and are involved with the all the characters you might not be happy with one of the story lines. I knew nothing about them and didn't care.
Gabby's a great match for Bowen. She has lots of family drama to sort out and how it will affect Bowen. Crazy stalker pushes them together and caused their chemistry to explode.
I'm sure there's going to be more stories in this series.
This is book three in a series, and I didn't know that when I requested it. It can be read as a stand alone. If you've read the first two and are involved with the all the characters you might not be happy with one of the story lines. I knew nothing about them and didn't care.
Gabby's a great match for Bowen. She has lots of family drama to sort out and how it will affect Bowen. Crazy stalker pushes them together and caused their chemistry to explode.
I'm sure there's going to be more stories in this series.
June 25, 2018
This is the 3rd in a series but I hadn’t read the first two and never felt out of the loop. This isn’t a light, fun romance. This is a darker take on romance. The couple both have baggage - a lot of it. And the book really focuses on their coming together despite that baggage as well as getting past that baggage to find their way together. There is quite a bit of sex in this one so if that’s not something you’re a fan of, I’d skip this one. But, if a romance heavy on the sex is ok with you, you may like this one. But, know that this is dark - there isn’t most light and breezy with this story. I still think it was a good read and recommend it!
[Thank you to the publisher for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.]
[Thank you to the publisher for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.]
June 11, 2018
If you're familiar with this series, you probably remember Bowen as Kevan's brother. Bowen is a musician and tatoo artist, a former bad-boy with an addiction for drugs and alcohol that got him in trouble before. Now he's been out of rehab for six months and ready to start a new life, free of his old demons. But Bowen is so used to women falling at his feet that he's still surprised that his new neighbor and the new addition to his group of friends, the quiet and lone Gabriella Alvarez doesn't seem to be a fan of him. Gabby doesn't have anything against Bowen, but she know what it's like to be surrounded by addicts and people who let you down and she learned that the only person she can count on is herself. She have her own past that doesn't want to leave her alone. And basically, she's afraid they would drown together with all the baggage they have. But what Bowen feel for her is something he never felt before and it's a feeling that can't be deny. But he's also never been in a relationship before and afraid to fuck it up. But if romance is too risky, maybe a hookup would be okay...
I wanted so much to like this book as much as the previous ones and I feel sorry that I didn't. Maybe I was in the mood for something lighter (I know, I know, what did I expect with a title like beautiful wreck, shame on me) or maybe I just didn't connect with Gabby and Bowen like I did with the other characters. But I feel like nothing really stood out in this story, there was too many "dick awing" and too many sex scenes to begin with and like I said before, I'm really not a fan of family drama.
But I'll certainly read the next Kasey Lane's book and even if this one was not my favorite, I'll never hesitate to recommend this series.
I wanted so much to like this book as much as the previous ones and I feel sorry that I didn't. Maybe I was in the mood for something lighter (I know, I know, what did I expect with a title like beautiful wreck, shame on me) or maybe I just didn't connect with Gabby and Bowen like I did with the other characters. But I feel like nothing really stood out in this story, there was too many "dick awing" and too many sex scenes to begin with and like I said before, I'm really not a fan of family drama.
But I'll certainly read the next Kasey Lane's book and even if this one was not my favorite, I'll never hesitate to recommend this series.
May 9, 2018
Beautiful Wreck is a truly compelling story. Right from the very beginning I was hooked.
Gabby is a new friend to Bowen’s little posse, and also his new neighbor. She is very guarded and has reason to be so. She hasn’t had people in her life that she can trust. Her mom has been in and out of rehab and hasn’t managed to stay clean. As a result, she grew up in foster care and had some very bad experiences that left her with no desire to ever trust a man.
Bowen is barely out of rehab and is trying to stay clean. He is doing everything he is supposed to do, go to meetings and work. He is committed to his recovery but that doesn’t mean there aren’t moments where it is the hardest thing he is doing. He is sure that he will mess up and drag Gabby down with him and he thinks she deserves better than that.
Some trouble from Gabby’s past is stalking her and Bowen sweeps in to help her. He thinks that she is too good for him but that doesn’t mean he won’t be there to protect her if she needs it. This is a really great read. It’s the story of two broken people coming together to be whole again. Their connection is genuine.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
Gabby is a new friend to Bowen’s little posse, and also his new neighbor. She is very guarded and has reason to be so. She hasn’t had people in her life that she can trust. Her mom has been in and out of rehab and hasn’t managed to stay clean. As a result, she grew up in foster care and had some very bad experiences that left her with no desire to ever trust a man.
Bowen is barely out of rehab and is trying to stay clean. He is doing everything he is supposed to do, go to meetings and work. He is committed to his recovery but that doesn’t mean there aren’t moments where it is the hardest thing he is doing. He is sure that he will mess up and drag Gabby down with him and he thinks she deserves better than that.
Some trouble from Gabby’s past is stalking her and Bowen sweeps in to help her. He thinks that she is too good for him but that doesn’t mean he won’t be there to protect her if she needs it. This is a really great read. It’s the story of two broken people coming together to be whole again. Their connection is genuine.
I volunteered to review an advance reader copy of this book.
May 15, 2018
I was excited to have the opportunity to obtain an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book on NetGalley.
BEAUTIFUL WRECK tackles the question of whether friends-with-benefits relationships can work or if a taste of forbidden fruit dooms the relationship for a breakup unless the couple commits.
After hitting rock bottom, musician and tattoo artist Bowen is on the road to recovery and redemption. A hook up with his beautiful neighbor would only distract him from his goals and possibly send him back down the path to self-destruction. After Gabby shares her dark secrets, along with the burning desire to bang her, Bowen is consumed with the need to protect her. Gabby has always been able to survive on her own, but when the horrors of her past come knocking, having someone to lean on feels good. Too good. Bowen turns Gabby’s scars into a thing of beauty, while she shows him the good that lurks inside his bad boy heart.
BEAUTIFUL WRECK is set in the rock and ink world of Lane’s BEAUTIFUL CRAZY and BEAUTIFUL MESS books and connects to the her new BLACKBERRY COVE COWBOYS series, but is a complete standalone love story.
Lane packs the pages with emotion and steamy sensuality. Hits of humor like a reference to the irony of Bowen, a guy in a band named Toast, having a crappy toaster adds to the fun ride. For readers who prefer sexy romance to sweet, BEAUTIFUL WRECK is the perfect smoldering read to add to their to-be-read lists.
BEAUTIFUL WRECK tackles the question of whether friends-with-benefits relationships can work or if a taste of forbidden fruit dooms the relationship for a breakup unless the couple commits.
After hitting rock bottom, musician and tattoo artist Bowen is on the road to recovery and redemption. A hook up with his beautiful neighbor would only distract him from his goals and possibly send him back down the path to self-destruction. After Gabby shares her dark secrets, along with the burning desire to bang her, Bowen is consumed with the need to protect her. Gabby has always been able to survive on her own, but when the horrors of her past come knocking, having someone to lean on feels good. Too good. Bowen turns Gabby’s scars into a thing of beauty, while she shows him the good that lurks inside his bad boy heart.
BEAUTIFUL WRECK is set in the rock and ink world of Lane’s BEAUTIFUL CRAZY and BEAUTIFUL MESS books and connects to the her new BLACKBERRY COVE COWBOYS series, but is a complete standalone love story.
Lane packs the pages with emotion and steamy sensuality. Hits of humor like a reference to the irony of Bowen, a guy in a band named Toast, having a crappy toaster adds to the fun ride. For readers who prefer sexy romance to sweet, BEAUTIFUL WRECK is the perfect smoldering read to add to their to-be-read lists.
July 8, 2018
ARC received via NetGalley
This was a nice, sweet romance. The characters were likeable and developed well as the story went on. I didn't realise when I started this book that it was part of a series but having finished this one, I'd now like to go back and read the previous stories.
This was a nice, sweet romance. The characters were likeable and developed well as the story went on. I didn't realise when I started this book that it was part of a series but having finished this one, I'd now like to go back and read the previous stories.
October 29, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed Lane's first and second book and found myself interested in seeing how a featured character would redeem themselves in his story. I think Lane does a good job of addressing the ramifications addiction has on the addicted and those who love them. Injecting a heroine who has their own issues with addiction gave the story an edginess and I liked that she stood her ground and doesn't submit to ideas and suggestions she doesn't want to. I did find the romance a little cold with the focus seemingly more on the sexual components rather than the emotional ones. I felt the push and pull dragged a little too long and I had issues with the hero's dichotomy of not wanting to face his demons yet pushing the heroine to face hers.
June 25, 2018
This was the first book I've read by this author and obviously the first in this series because of that.
Cute story about a guy who is trying to change his ways having hit rock bottom recently. He finished rehab and is now committed to staying sober and getting his life back on track. Then we have a girl who is still dealing with the negative effects of time spent in foster care when she was younger which left her both physically and emotionally scarred. The two couldn't be more different and on the surface it looks as if things should never work out between them. Especially considering her mom is an active addict who hasn't been able to find sobriety.
Gabby and Bowen are just adorable! They both have their own issues that they're working through, but neither is perfect. I think what makes this story so good is that their reactions seem genuine; they shut down when angry, they need time alone, they cry and get frustrated.
The only reason I gave this story 3 stars instead of higher is because the end felt rushed. We didn't really get much closure with Gabby's mom and I would have loved to read more about Bowen.
Cute story about a guy who is trying to change his ways having hit rock bottom recently. He finished rehab and is now committed to staying sober and getting his life back on track. Then we have a girl who is still dealing with the negative effects of time spent in foster care when she was younger which left her both physically and emotionally scarred. The two couldn't be more different and on the surface it looks as if things should never work out between them. Especially considering her mom is an active addict who hasn't been able to find sobriety.
Gabby and Bowen are just adorable! They both have their own issues that they're working through, but neither is perfect. I think what makes this story so good is that their reactions seem genuine; they shut down when angry, they need time alone, they cry and get frustrated.
The only reason I gave this story 3 stars instead of higher is because the end felt rushed. We didn't really get much closure with Gabby's mom and I would have loved to read more about Bowen.
May 23, 2018
This story was very mundane. It was a predictable, light fluffy read. I didnt know it was part of a series and maybe it would have been more interesting if I followed this group of people from the beginning. But then again, knowing the other characters backgrounds still wouldn’t do much to improve the excitement of this story. I did finish the book, so there is that. Although at times it was hard to keep from putting it down out of boredom. I don’t think I’ll be checking out the other books from this series.
May 23, 2018
There was just something missing. Broken characters are nothing new, and while Gabby and Bowen had some major issues (a broken childhood and an alcoholic), their characters still fell flat for me. I especially didn't like how pushy Bowen was (a lot at the beginning) and I also didn't like how he was to take his first year of sobriety seriously (and supposedly was) yet he quickly entered into a (sexual) relationship with Gabby.
May 15, 2018
4.5☆
Loved it!
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Love n Ink
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from NetGalley.
Loved it!
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Love n Ink
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC from NetGalley.
May 9, 2018
Bowen doesn't really have much game, “you didn’t startle me. And I think that dress looks smokin’… uh, pretty.” There are times Bowen is often confused, “so when do we get started?” Started? On what? More kissing? She stood staring at him with her brows raised. “On the tattoo, Bowen.” Sometimes a girl just has to spell it out for Bowen, the man doesn't take hints, “well, then, what the eff is your intention? You don’t touch me for a week and now suddenly you’re jerking me around. I just want to have ***, Bowen! I want you to pick me up and eff me against the wall. That’s what I want you to do.” I liked this book, I fell in love with Bowen.
Read
October 2, 2018DNF @31%
May 31, 2018
I received this book from Net Galley for my honest opinion
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June 12, 2018
copy received for honest review
The story started out pretty good but fell off toward the end. There was a good plot/mystery going with the foster father with just fizzled. I know the author used that to get Gabby and Bowen together but the resolution was a bit of a let down. Also the mom drama fizzled too. I was all ready to get into these dramas but nothing really happened. The romance was the usual, he feels he is not good enough for her/she deserves better trope.Bowen wanted to focus on keeping clean and paying his sister back for helping him. He was still in recovery and a relationship is frowned upon. Gabby does not want a relationship. She has trust issues. They compromise with a temporary friends with benefit arrangement. Of course, feelings get in the way. I liked both characters. I just felt that there should have been more. Something was missing for me.
The story started out pretty good but fell off toward the end. There was a good plot/mystery going with the foster father with just fizzled. I know the author used that to get Gabby and Bowen together but the resolution was a bit of a let down. Also the mom drama fizzled too. I was all ready to get into these dramas but nothing really happened. The romance was the usual, he feels he is not good enough for her/she deserves better trope.Bowen wanted to focus on keeping clean and paying his sister back for helping him. He was still in recovery and a relationship is frowned upon. Gabby does not want a relationship. She has trust issues. They compromise with a temporary friends with benefit arrangement. Of course, feelings get in the way. I liked both characters. I just felt that there should have been more. Something was missing for me.
May 31, 2018
Bowen was at his sister Kaven’s wedding. He was practically coming out of his skin. The heat the tux, the party and all these people. People he loved but now everything had changed especially him. Bowen wasn’t quite sure where he fit into anymore. Bowen pulled his jacket off and put it over his arm before pulling out his shirt again. Then Gabbu, a new addition to his tight-knit group said she felt the same way about her dress. Gabby was also Bowen’s new neighbor and hot. Gabby started hanging out with Bowen’s best friend-Jax’s- fiance. Bowen had even worked with her a couple times at the Portland Community Women’s Center also known as Quirk where they both volunteered like the rest of their group. Bowen thought of Gabby’s eyes- they were deep and dark like she saw things inside him that Bowen didn’t want people to see. Dark full of stories she had never shared with anyone. Bowen wondered what the usually quiet and often sarcastic Gabrielle Alvarez his behind those green eyes and her her ironic smirk. He knew it was probably a little ugly and a little sad. So for not the first time Bowen thought he and Cabby should steer clear of each other because two people with secrets and smoky pasts didn’t mix well. Bowen’s days of charming anything female was over. When mentioning his sisters wedding instead of rainbows and butterflies floating around in Gabby’s head, he seen a mix of dark heartache and distaste. Bowen hadn’t noticed how attractive Gabby really was when he had seen her before. Lust shot from his chest to his celibate penis. Bowen had gotten out of rehab six months ago. If there was anyone Bowen trusted with the most important person in his life-Kevan it was her new husband Mason. Kevan and mason owned a entertainment marketing company together. Kevan thought Bowen to be a bad boy. Now she knew his sister called him Bobo …. But gabby thought once addict always an addict add that to his unnerving good looks and the man was a recipe for disaster. Yet here she was dancing with him Gabby couldn’t remember the last time she’d let a man touch her in anything more than a quick hug or professional handshake. But surprisingly bowens hands on her didn’t fill her with the need to run. Gabby actually wanted to lean into Bowen’s embrace. Cabby’s skin sizzled, her nerve endings crackled to life and sent threads of electricity through her body where Bowen’s calloused hands touched her skin. Was that what other women felt when a man touched them? It wasn’t normal for Gabby. Gabby had no interest in any kind of sexual attraction in men. No doubt bowen was the most attractive man she had ever met. Gabby almost forgot for a minute she wasn’t interested in bad boys. Or boys of any persuasion for that matter. Bowen told gabby to relax as they danced again but Gabby hadn’t been held by a man like this in a long time. Or maybe ever. Bowen was also a metalhead- into heavy metal. Bowen said he was a reformed bad boy sid there was no such thing as gabby didn’t believe people could change. Because the opposite had been proven to her time and time again. Bowen played guitar and base and was a tattoo artist. He had given Kaven most of her ink. Gabby had a scar she wanted covered up and had mentioned it at Kaven’s bachelor/bachelorette party and Kaven volunteered Bowen for the work. Bowen told gabby the work she needed done would take several settings and Gabby didn’t want to think what it would do to her head to have Bowen’s hands on her for all that time. Bowen worked at Taleggio as a tattooist as did some of his best friends. Bowen wanted to know more about this beautiful odd woman. Jax then called bowen on stage to play his guitar and he saw gabby slip out of the reception. Bowen loved the way everything changed became hyper-focused when he held his guitar or bass, music was something he could control in his mess of a life. Bowen had been practicing with his band Toast- other bandmates besides Jax was Nathan and Declan. and for the last couple of months. But it was hard to get in front of people and play. Bowen went to Gabby’s apartment after he got home from the reception . She somehow agreed to meet him next day at the shop so he could see her scar and discuss ways to cover it up. After Bowen had left Gabby noticed on the glass table on her balcony was a pile of blood- red flower petals arranged in a neat circle. The next day she went to the shop as she pulled up her shirt and tucked it under her bra her palms grew damp and her heart raced. But this was the next step in getting better, getting over her past and moving forward. Gabby thought Bowen wasn’t a lover, he wasn’t there to judge her body, he was there to fix it. To help. He was an artist and she was just a flawed canvas. Bowen was the first non-medical person to touch her scars. The first man, -other than the man who hurt her with the knife- to touch her there. She had the scars for six years. Then when Bowen walked Gabby from the shop to her car they seen the word BITCH on her window in red. Bowen had tried keeping Gabby out of his head since the day before but she keeps popping up. After seeing Bowen’s idea to cover her scars she loved it. She also gave him a big smile that ,made Bowen want to believe in love and redemption, and second chances. Gabby usually want anyone to touch her , hadn’t for a very long time. So Gabby didn’t quite know what to do with these new feelings. Feelings of desire, want, lust. Whatever it was called Gabby suddenly wanted it with Bowen. Gabby got lost in codes-numbers, patterns, beautiful logic- everything just worked. Gabby’s work had always been her happy place, her salvation, the one place in her world that made sense. Gabby’s apartment had been broken into and everything was basically destroyed. She was now staying with Bowen until she could get another place and get everything settled. She was working on a project for work- Ultra moda project. Gabby was very smart. Then her mother Alam called but when she called Gabby knew she always wanted something, this time she said she was being transferred from jail to a treatment program. Then she asked about Gabby’s life, as gabby started to open up to her mother the phone went dead in her ear the time to talk from jail was up. Gabby and Bowen became lovers and bowen was her first as gabby had been a virgin but hadn’t told Bowen and he hadn’t been happy about that. But there was to be no strings and as soon as Gabby was safe again and settled they would go back to being just friends.
I loved this story. Although it was filled with heartache it still had a beautiful romance that grew as this book continued. I was so happy with the end!! I loved Gabby and Bowen together and how they interacted with each other. Two broken people who so needed each other they just didn’t know it. I loved how the author portrayed Bowen's addiction as well as Gabby being a survivor and letting Bowen know what she had went through. I loved the arthur showed how hard recovery can be to stay on the straight and narrow and work your program and try to have a life also. Also how much gabby had suffered even after she had been scarred. This was well written as far as I am concerned. I loved how their group just accepted and cared about gabby. But also how they cared about Bowen even after he had messed up so much. I happily couldn’t find anything to criticize in this book. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend.
I loved this story. Although it was filled with heartache it still had a beautiful romance that grew as this book continued. I was so happy with the end!! I loved Gabby and Bowen together and how they interacted with each other. Two broken people who so needed each other they just didn’t know it. I loved how the author portrayed Bowen's addiction as well as Gabby being a survivor and letting Bowen know what she had went through. I loved the arthur showed how hard recovery can be to stay on the straight and narrow and work your program and try to have a life also. Also how much gabby had suffered even after she had been scarred. This was well written as far as I am concerned. I loved how their group just accepted and cared about gabby. But also how they cared about Bowen even after he had messed up so much. I happily couldn’t find anything to criticize in this book. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend.
February 4, 2021
"received an arc exchange for an honest review"
things i liked
Bowen- recovering alcoholic and drug addict. His main vocus is paying back his sister and her hubby for everything they did when he needed help besides all that he has an alpha personality but he is caring and he tries to be there for someone
Gabby- she ticked me off like a lot a lot but i liked how much her character has grown through this book
things I didn't like
I'm trying to figure out how you need almost 3 chapters just for a sexy time scene that didnt even happen until like the third chapter or that a argument has to last three chapters.
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things i liked
Bowen- recovering alcoholic and drug addict. His main vocus is paying back his sister and her hubby for everything they did when he needed help besides all that he has an alpha personality but he is caring and he tries to be there for someone
Gabby- she ticked me off like a lot a lot but i liked how much her character has grown through this book
things I didn't like
I'm trying to figure out how you need almost 3 chapters just for a sexy time scene that didnt even happen until like the third chapter or that a argument has to last three chapters.
My Blog
November 1, 2018
Bowen Landry is a musician, in recovery, and a tattoo artist by trade. He's just six months into sobriety and holding the course, staying on track. Life is better than it's been in a while and he doesn't want to squander this chance. So he works, practices with the band and goes to meetings. It's all he can manage.
Gabrielle Alvarez is new to Portland. She's made a few friends, found meaningful work and has an apartment that gives her some measure of safety and comfort. Her past is littered with traumas and tragedies, so she doesn't let anyone get close. It's a lonely life, but it's all she can manage.
When something from her past begins to harm her present and future, Bowen steps up to the job of protector. He's a natural at it. He has a younger sister that he practically raised so it's effortless on his part. Gabby has been alone her whole life so she doesn't accept help easily. When she's forced to move into his apartment temporarily, things quickly become complicated. Feelings, sex, closeness, her past, and fear of screwing it all up make the situation, by turns, sweet and sexy and cruel and cold.
Their relationship builds slowly. It's endearing and lovely. It feels real and life affirming. The friendship was already there so they're simply building on a good foundation. It's not smooth sailing though. It's tangled and knotty and they each have baggage that they deal with badly. Being together makes them strong enough to begin to tackle some of those issues and grow closer and even some love slips in. There is still room for some much needed angst and arguments, thankfully. The arguments and snark are the best parts of the book.
The ending is a bit over the top. The public aspect is too showy for me. I would have loved a much more private declaration that allowed for more of the push/pull that I loved throughout the whole book. It wasn't rushed and that counts for something. The author even gave us an epilogue that was worthy of the story and the characters.
The flow and continuity were very nicely handled. I only found one spot where the continuity was a bit off but it was so minor it didn't really bother me. The drama built as steadily as the relationship. The whole story was very easy to follow and a real pleasure to read.
The sex was a bit tame and vanilla but it wasn't boring. It was maturely described and gave the story a dash of spice. It was through the acts of intimacy that you could see the emotional impact of each character. He is bossy in their sexual encounters but not a true Dom. She is submissive to his desires without actually being a Sub.
Grammar, spelling, and punctuation were all fine. I found a few typos but they weren't enough to disrupt my enjoyment of the book. I could chalk those up to human error without an issue.
This would've been a 5 star book, but there were holes. I wanted more on Gabby's injuries, more of the law enforcement aspect since it was what really brought them together, and more of her past. The book felt a little heavy handed in regards to Bowen's story and flat on hers. If we had been given perhaps ten percent more of Gabby's story it would have been damn close to perfect.
Can I recommend this book? Absolutely. I won't hesitate to add the author to my list and will pick up another of her work. It was a quick, fun, sexy read. Perfect for a rainy Sunday or a lazy day at the shore.
Gabrielle Alvarez is new to Portland. She's made a few friends, found meaningful work and has an apartment that gives her some measure of safety and comfort. Her past is littered with traumas and tragedies, so she doesn't let anyone get close. It's a lonely life, but it's all she can manage.
When something from her past begins to harm her present and future, Bowen steps up to the job of protector. He's a natural at it. He has a younger sister that he practically raised so it's effortless on his part. Gabby has been alone her whole life so she doesn't accept help easily. When she's forced to move into his apartment temporarily, things quickly become complicated. Feelings, sex, closeness, her past, and fear of screwing it all up make the situation, by turns, sweet and sexy and cruel and cold.
Their relationship builds slowly. It's endearing and lovely. It feels real and life affirming. The friendship was already there so they're simply building on a good foundation. It's not smooth sailing though. It's tangled and knotty and they each have baggage that they deal with badly. Being together makes them strong enough to begin to tackle some of those issues and grow closer and even some love slips in. There is still room for some much needed angst and arguments, thankfully. The arguments and snark are the best parts of the book.
The ending is a bit over the top. The public aspect is too showy for me. I would have loved a much more private declaration that allowed for more of the push/pull that I loved throughout the whole book. It wasn't rushed and that counts for something. The author even gave us an epilogue that was worthy of the story and the characters.
The flow and continuity were very nicely handled. I only found one spot where the continuity was a bit off but it was so minor it didn't really bother me. The drama built as steadily as the relationship. The whole story was very easy to follow and a real pleasure to read.
The sex was a bit tame and vanilla but it wasn't boring. It was maturely described and gave the story a dash of spice. It was through the acts of intimacy that you could see the emotional impact of each character. He is bossy in their sexual encounters but not a true Dom. She is submissive to his desires without actually being a Sub.
Grammar, spelling, and punctuation were all fine. I found a few typos but they weren't enough to disrupt my enjoyment of the book. I could chalk those up to human error without an issue.
This would've been a 5 star book, but there were holes. I wanted more on Gabby's injuries, more of the law enforcement aspect since it was what really brought them together, and more of her past. The book felt a little heavy handed in regards to Bowen's story and flat on hers. If we had been given perhaps ten percent more of Gabby's story it would have been damn close to perfect.
Can I recommend this book? Absolutely. I won't hesitate to add the author to my list and will pick up another of her work. It was a quick, fun, sexy read. Perfect for a rainy Sunday or a lazy day at the shore.
May 31, 2018
Beautiful Wreck by Kasey Lane
Bowen Landry looked out over the green lawn of the rented estate and tugged at his tie, realizing that the ridiculous penguin suit he wore must surely demonstrate just how much he loved his little sister. Though the enormous white tent was filled with his friends, he was feeling about as out of place as a guitar player in an a cappella group.
For savvy programmer Gabrielle Alvarez, moving to Portland, Oregon means a fresh start with a blank screen. She wants nothing more than to erase the last traces of her old life, starting with an exotic tattoo to hide an old scar. Gabby’s instantly drawn to the enigmatic artist, who also happens to be her neighbor. Lucky she has no plans to date-especially sexy, brooding men.
Last year, Bowen Landry was the king of broken promises. He made hundreds to his sister to get clean and hundreds more to his band and his boss. But Bowen’s sober now and determined to stay that way. The last thing he needs are complications, especially Gabby with her curves, dry humor, and independent spirit. Gabby spells danger to Bowen’s peace of mind, not to mention his personal promise to stay celibate for one year.
Bowen is content keeping a firewall up between them until a stalker threatens Gabby’s safety. Alone in a new city, she has no choice but to turn to Bowen for help, moving into his apartment after hers is vandalized. While the two grow closer, Bowen can’t make any promises, and Gabby’s not asking. While the inexperienced Gabby can’t deny the charming, reformed bad boy, she’s unsure she can ever trust an addict again. If Bowen can help Gabby forgive her past and his, he may learn to believe in love again.
this is Gabrielle Alvarez and Bowen Landry's story.
The corner of her pretty mouth turned up. “I don’t want to dance.”
He reached forward and took her tiny hand in his. She was so delicate, so slender. “Please come dance with me,” he said and pulled her forward gently. This time she gave a little and took a step forward and he noticed the pink tinge to her golden skin.
Bowen Landry looked out over the green lawn of the rented estate and tugged at his tie, realizing that the ridiculous penguin suit he wore must surely demonstrate just how much he loved his little sister. Though the enormous white tent was filled with his friends, he was feeling about as out of place as a guitar player in an a cappella group.
Man, he was practically coming out of his skin. The heat. This suit. The party and all these people. People he loved, no doubt, but now that everything had changed, especially him, he wasn’t quite sure where he fit into it all anymore. He pulled his coat off and folded it over his arm before pulling at his shirt again.
Beautiful Wreck by Kasey Lane is a 2 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kasey's Books with Tule:
Punk Rock Cowgirl
Blackberry Cove Cowboys
Beautiful Wreck
Bowen Landry looked out over the green lawn of the rented estate and tugged at his tie, realizing that the ridiculous penguin suit he wore must surely demonstrate just how much he loved his little sister. Though the enormous white tent was filled with his friends, he was feeling about as out of place as a guitar player in an a cappella group.
For savvy programmer Gabrielle Alvarez, moving to Portland, Oregon means a fresh start with a blank screen. She wants nothing more than to erase the last traces of her old life, starting with an exotic tattoo to hide an old scar. Gabby’s instantly drawn to the enigmatic artist, who also happens to be her neighbor. Lucky she has no plans to date-especially sexy, brooding men.
Last year, Bowen Landry was the king of broken promises. He made hundreds to his sister to get clean and hundreds more to his band and his boss. But Bowen’s sober now and determined to stay that way. The last thing he needs are complications, especially Gabby with her curves, dry humor, and independent spirit. Gabby spells danger to Bowen’s peace of mind, not to mention his personal promise to stay celibate for one year.
Bowen is content keeping a firewall up between them until a stalker threatens Gabby’s safety. Alone in a new city, she has no choice but to turn to Bowen for help, moving into his apartment after hers is vandalized. While the two grow closer, Bowen can’t make any promises, and Gabby’s not asking. While the inexperienced Gabby can’t deny the charming, reformed bad boy, she’s unsure she can ever trust an addict again. If Bowen can help Gabby forgive her past and his, he may learn to believe in love again.
this is Gabrielle Alvarez and Bowen Landry's story.
The corner of her pretty mouth turned up. “I don’t want to dance.”
He reached forward and took her tiny hand in his. She was so delicate, so slender. “Please come dance with me,” he said and pulled her forward gently. This time she gave a little and took a step forward and he noticed the pink tinge to her golden skin.
Bowen Landry looked out over the green lawn of the rented estate and tugged at his tie, realizing that the ridiculous penguin suit he wore must surely demonstrate just how much he loved his little sister. Though the enormous white tent was filled with his friends, he was feeling about as out of place as a guitar player in an a cappella group.
Man, he was practically coming out of his skin. The heat. This suit. The party and all these people. People he loved, no doubt, but now that everything had changed, especially him, he wasn’t quite sure where he fit into it all anymore. He pulled his coat off and folded it over his arm before pulling at his shirt again.
Beautiful Wreck by Kasey Lane is a 2 star book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Kasey's Books with Tule:
Punk Rock Cowgirl
Blackberry Cove Cowboys
Beautiful Wreck
May 31, 2018
That dimpled smile was disarming and did something to her insides. It shined with a what-the-hell attitude of fun and mischief that she didn’t feel. Maybe had never felt. But it was a little bit infectious. Just a tiny bit. But mostly it was annoying. Annoying that he was so nice even though she so wasn’t.This is my first book by Kasey Lane and it won't necessarily be my last, because the book had a lot of promise. Most all of my issues with the book had to do with the heroine, Gabby, though I will say that the subplot that had her get close to and move-in temporarily with Bowen—that a mystery person from her past is threatening her—was not super well done.
Bowen was a great character, and I thought very well done. He appears in the previous books (I assume), or at least the one featuring his sister, and I'm guessing we see him very differently in those books. At this point when we meet him, he's been out of rehab for 6 months and has been staying sober and clean—there was some drug use, though it does seem like alcohol was the main issue. He's been working really hard on getting his life back together, becoming the reliable friend and brother he aspires to be, and focusing on work and recovery.
He used to be a bad-boy player, but has stayed away from women (in addition to all the other stuff) since he's been in recovery. His developing attraction to Gabby has therefore come at an inconvenient time, but he finds himself very drawn to her and given the circumstances that they find themselves in, she at the moment really needs someone to be there for her. She's not very trusting and has a prickly disposition, which is initially part of what intrigues him about her; he wants to see behind the mask and image she projects and get to know the woman underneath. When she's faced with her apartment being broken into and destroyed, he wants to be the dependable guy she can turn to (though don't get me wrong, there's also plenty of physical attraction and lust involved).
Gabby was annoying and my main problem. I understood what Lane was going for, but for me, Gabby came off as too unlikable. She was prickly and distant, though then sometimes she started softening Bowen, but then would go back and forth. She was inconsistent, sent mixed messages, wasn't very nice to Bowen (though at the end, he's the one who all-of-a-sudden pulls the asshole move and throws up the last obstacle). She could have used more fleshing out and more ... I don't know, more ... something.
Recommendations.
The following contemporary romances offer much better versions of prickly heroines that are very worth reading:
• Wild & Sweet by Rhenna Morgan
• Holding the Dream by Nora Roberts
• Rock Hard by Nalini Singh (though she's not that prickly)
And here's another contemporary romance that features a great hero dealing with alcoholism, though he's not yet in recovery when we first meet him:
• Wanting What You Get by Kathy Love
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
May 21, 2018
Sadly, the lack of chemistry between Bowen and Gabby was a serious drag for me. This was a big disappointment: the blurb had been intriguing and its world of family and friends working in the same tattoo place or in their band had given me total wannabe Lauren Dane world vibes.
Note: Beautiful Wreck is the third in the series and I had not read any of the earlier books. It works as a standalone but there are multiple references to past storylines.
The many cliched components of Bowen and Gabby's story came together like an overly ambitious smoothie made with too many ingredients: Tortured tattoo artist. Fresh out of rehab. In a popular band, no less. A feisty neighbor with scars and a mysterious secret. A stalker. All of this should have been romance catnip for me; but the myriad many plot bits couldn't overcome the serious lack of chemistry between Bowen and Gabby.
To be honest, Bowen annoyed me almost from the beginning when he kept calling Gabby "little one" after she told him very clearly not to. It wasn't flirtatious, cute, or sweet but a real jerk move. I found myself grinding my teeth each time he did it and he did it throughout the book. Here's what happened only the second time he said it (after Gabby already explained her dislike of it):
Thanks, but no thanks, late night creeper.
Note: I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC generously provided by Netgalley.
Note: Beautiful Wreck is the third in the series and I had not read any of the earlier books. It works as a standalone but there are multiple references to past storylines.
The many cliched components of Bowen and Gabby's story came together like an overly ambitious smoothie made with too many ingredients: Tortured tattoo artist. Fresh out of rehab. In a popular band, no less. A feisty neighbor with scars and a mysterious secret. A stalker. All of this should have been romance catnip for me; but the myriad many plot bits couldn't overcome the serious lack of chemistry between Bowen and Gabby.
To be honest, Bowen annoyed me almost from the beginning when he kept calling Gabby "little one" after she told him very clearly not to. It wasn't flirtatious, cute, or sweet but a real jerk move. I found myself grinding my teeth each time he did it and he did it throughout the book. Here's what happened only the second time he said it (after Gabby already explained her dislike of it):
"I can hear you, little one. C'mon. Why won't you answer the door?"...
"I didn't invite you here. You're drunk. And I don't appreciate when you call me little one."...
"I don't drink anymore," he said rubbing the back of his head and mussing his tousled hair even more. "And you are little."
Thanks, but no thanks, late night creeper.
Note: I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC generously provided by Netgalley.
May 12, 2018
I have really enjoyed Kasey Lane’s Rock ‘N Ink series. Beautiful Wreck is as fun as Beautiful Crazy and Beautiful Mess. Set in the world of musicians and tattoo artists it’s not a world I relate to but I feel right at home with Lane’s colorful (literally) characters.
We watched Bowen’s freefall into alcohol and drugs in the last two books. Now he’s back from rehab and doing very well in his constant battle to stay sober. At his sister’s wedding, he sees Gabby in a whole new light. She’s far sexier than he had imagined. He’s torn between staying away from relationships in his first year sober and wanting to be with shy, sexy Gabby.
She’s, for the first time in her life, in a good place. She loves her work, she has friends and she enjoys her volunteer work. She doesn’t need bad boy, sexy as heck rocker Bowen. She’s had more than enough experience with addicts so that alone is reason enough to stay away. Gabby is also being taunted by an evil former foster parent.
The story lacks sufficient depth in a couple of ways. The resolution of Gabby’s stalking situation was anti-climactic and Gabby’s mom’s attempt to cause trouble with Bowen’s parole officer could have been fleshed out better. It was also a bit weird how Bowen reacts to Gabby being a virgin and not telling him. None of these issues stopped me from enjoying the story though.
I did like the big break up and Bowen’s romantic declaration of love. The ending was very satisfying. Overall, I found Beautiful Wreck an interesting and enjoyable read.
We watched Bowen’s freefall into alcohol and drugs in the last two books. Now he’s back from rehab and doing very well in his constant battle to stay sober. At his sister’s wedding, he sees Gabby in a whole new light. She’s far sexier than he had imagined. He’s torn between staying away from relationships in his first year sober and wanting to be with shy, sexy Gabby.
She’s, for the first time in her life, in a good place. She loves her work, she has friends and she enjoys her volunteer work. She doesn’t need bad boy, sexy as heck rocker Bowen. She’s had more than enough experience with addicts so that alone is reason enough to stay away. Gabby is also being taunted by an evil former foster parent.
The story lacks sufficient depth in a couple of ways. The resolution of Gabby’s stalking situation was anti-climactic and Gabby’s mom’s attempt to cause trouble with Bowen’s parole officer could have been fleshed out better. It was also a bit weird how Bowen reacts to Gabby being a virgin and not telling him. None of these issues stopped me from enjoying the story though.
I did like the big break up and Bowen’s romantic declaration of love. The ending was very satisfying. Overall, I found Beautiful Wreck an interesting and enjoyable read.
May 22, 2018
An electrifying page turner.
Gabby Alvarez's life is turned upside down when her former foster father starts stalking her. After he destroys her apartment, her friend Bowen Landry, Portland's hottest bad boy rocker, asks Gabby to stay with him until she can find another place to live.
Bowen is attracted to Gabby, but he is trying to by the rules to stay sober. That meant no relationships. But he can't help thinking of Gabby in his bed every time he looks at her. Gabby didn't want a boyfriend and doesn't understand why she is so attracted to Bowen. So when Bowen suggests friends with benefits, Gabby goes for it. Even though it wasn’t part of the plan, Gabby falls in love with Bowen. But, Gabby knows, once an addict, always an addict. And she didn't need another addict in her life when she’s been dealing with her mother’s addictions all of her life.
After seeing the cover and reading the blurb, I knew I had to read this book. I have always been a sucker for bad boys. And, a bad boy rock star covered in tattoos will always get my attention. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. She told a tale that felt real and was filled with emotion. Both, Gabby and Bowen, were damaged people who had been through a lot and were finally getting their lives on track. They didn't need any distractions. But this distraction was worth the risk. Their happily ever after was well deserved. The only downside to this book was it wasn’t long enough for me. I needed more of Gabby and Bowen and would love to find out what happens with the rest of their friends.
Gabby Alvarez's life is turned upside down when her former foster father starts stalking her. After he destroys her apartment, her friend Bowen Landry, Portland's hottest bad boy rocker, asks Gabby to stay with him until she can find another place to live.
Bowen is attracted to Gabby, but he is trying to by the rules to stay sober. That meant no relationships. But he can't help thinking of Gabby in his bed every time he looks at her. Gabby didn't want a boyfriend and doesn't understand why she is so attracted to Bowen. So when Bowen suggests friends with benefits, Gabby goes for it. Even though it wasn’t part of the plan, Gabby falls in love with Bowen. But, Gabby knows, once an addict, always an addict. And she didn't need another addict in her life when she’s been dealing with her mother’s addictions all of her life.
After seeing the cover and reading the blurb, I knew I had to read this book. I have always been a sucker for bad boys. And, a bad boy rock star covered in tattoos will always get my attention. I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. She told a tale that felt real and was filled with emotion. Both, Gabby and Bowen, were damaged people who had been through a lot and were finally getting their lives on track. They didn't need any distractions. But this distraction was worth the risk. Their happily ever after was well deserved. The only downside to this book was it wasn’t long enough for me. I needed more of Gabby and Bowen and would love to find out what happens with the rest of their friends.
May 31, 2018
While I Breath I Hope
I am voluntarily leaving a review for an Exclusive ARC of this book.
A fantastic well deserved 5 star read with tight knit characters that have been woven so beautifully by this amazing author. It brought tears to my eyes, if only all families and friends in this mixed up world could stick together like glue for total happiness! Bowen Landry a former bad boy of Portland, now only feels guilt that he let his sister Kevan down when she needed him most! He has a past history with drink and drugs when playing in a band and is in his 1 year anniversary in rehab, and nothing will get in his way to atone for his mistakes. Bowen is also a much wanted tattooist at Tatuaggio.
Gabriella Alvarez is quiet yet sarcastic with many dark secrets. She also has a stalker and an addict mom Alma, and Gabby has learnt not to depend on or love anyone. Gabby asks Bowen to cover a scar on her rib cage with a tattoo. Will Gabby be Bowen’s mistake? Could the ugly be made beautiful? Will they find her stalker? Bowen is determined to give Gabby the power she needs back! But will it come at his own cost? Bowen does’nt need Gabby’s mess of a life! But she has the all encompassing power to destroy him! Can Gabby trust Bowen to come through for her? Will her past ever let her go? Simply put this is a highly recommended must read that gripped me from the very first page. Kasey Lane that I now shall follow avidly.
I am voluntarily leaving a review for an Exclusive ARC of this book.
A fantastic well deserved 5 star read with tight knit characters that have been woven so beautifully by this amazing author. It brought tears to my eyes, if only all families and friends in this mixed up world could stick together like glue for total happiness! Bowen Landry a former bad boy of Portland, now only feels guilt that he let his sister Kevan down when she needed him most! He has a past history with drink and drugs when playing in a band and is in his 1 year anniversary in rehab, and nothing will get in his way to atone for his mistakes. Bowen is also a much wanted tattooist at Tatuaggio.
Gabriella Alvarez is quiet yet sarcastic with many dark secrets. She also has a stalker and an addict mom Alma, and Gabby has learnt not to depend on or love anyone. Gabby asks Bowen to cover a scar on her rib cage with a tattoo. Will Gabby be Bowen’s mistake? Could the ugly be made beautiful? Will they find her stalker? Bowen is determined to give Gabby the power she needs back! But will it come at his own cost? Bowen does’nt need Gabby’s mess of a life! But she has the all encompassing power to destroy him! Can Gabby trust Bowen to come through for her? Will her past ever let her go? Simply put this is a highly recommended must read that gripped me from the very first page. Kasey Lane that I now shall follow avidly.
June 1, 2018
Beautiful Wreck
**received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved Gabby and Bowen’s story. The struggles that they both have to endure make them that much more better as a couple. They have to fight for what they want and they both deserve to be happy. Bowen’s openness to his faults will pull you in and how he wants to make sure he keeps on the right path, steals a piece of you. And when he takes in Gabby you will be rooting for them to make a go of it. This was the perfect installment to the Rock ‘n’ Ink series.
Gabby wants a tattoo to cover up the scars from what happen to her early on in life. She knows that Bowen does amazing work but at the same time she is attracted to him and doesn’t know if she has enough guts to have him do it.
Bowen is attracted to Gabby but knows he should stay away from her while he is trying to get his life back together. But when she wants to get a tattoo from him, he continues to fall for her and when her apartment is broken into it’s the perfect opportunity for him to get to know her better.
Gabby is grateful to Bowen for all that he has done for her and when they take their relationship to a new level she can’t let herself get caught up in the what if. They only have now and she needs to cherish what little time they have. But will it be enough? Or is their attraction and chemistry too much to ignore?
**received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved Gabby and Bowen’s story. The struggles that they both have to endure make them that much more better as a couple. They have to fight for what they want and they both deserve to be happy. Bowen’s openness to his faults will pull you in and how he wants to make sure he keeps on the right path, steals a piece of you. And when he takes in Gabby you will be rooting for them to make a go of it. This was the perfect installment to the Rock ‘n’ Ink series.
Gabby wants a tattoo to cover up the scars from what happen to her early on in life. She knows that Bowen does amazing work but at the same time she is attracted to him and doesn’t know if she has enough guts to have him do it.
Bowen is attracted to Gabby but knows he should stay away from her while he is trying to get his life back together. But when she wants to get a tattoo from him, he continues to fall for her and when her apartment is broken into it’s the perfect opportunity for him to get to know her better.
Gabby is grateful to Bowen for all that he has done for her and when they take their relationship to a new level she can’t let herself get caught up in the what if. They only have now and she needs to cherish what little time they have. But will it be enough? Or is their attraction and chemistry too much to ignore?
June 1, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I found Beautiful Wreck to be a compelling look at climbing back up from rock bottom, believing in yourself when no one else can, and the hard, difficult journey it truly is to get clean… and stay clean.
Bowen had it all and lost it. He’s recently out of rehab and fighting every single day to stay sober. It’s not easy but he’s determined that he’ll never go back into that hell that his life was ever again. Gabby is looking for a fresh start. She’s leery of most men, and due to her own past can never trust someone with an addiction problem… solved or not. Yet these two broken people come together as friends, friends with sexy benefits… and if they’re lucky and can learn to trust they just might find a love to last a lifetime.
I enjoyed my time in this world. I might have wanted to sit both Bowen and Gabby down for a serious talk a time or two, but overall I had a good time with Beautiful Wreck, and really that’s the whole point. If you’re in the mood for a romance that mends two broken people then add this one to your reading list.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I found Beautiful Wreck to be a compelling look at climbing back up from rock bottom, believing in yourself when no one else can, and the hard, difficult journey it truly is to get clean… and stay clean.
Bowen had it all and lost it. He’s recently out of rehab and fighting every single day to stay sober. It’s not easy but he’s determined that he’ll never go back into that hell that his life was ever again. Gabby is looking for a fresh start. She’s leery of most men, and due to her own past can never trust someone with an addiction problem… solved or not. Yet these two broken people come together as friends, friends with sexy benefits… and if they’re lucky and can learn to trust they just might find a love to last a lifetime.
I enjoyed my time in this world. I might have wanted to sit both Bowen and Gabby down for a serious talk a time or two, but overall I had a good time with Beautiful Wreck, and really that’s the whole point. If you’re in the mood for a romance that mends two broken people then add this one to your reading list.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 27, 2018
The first thing about this book I have to say that grabbed my attention was the cover. OH MY STARS. This cover I would frame and but Up on my wall as Art. It drew me in and had me wanting to read the book. And yes, the inside of the book DID for once agree with the cover of the book. What a wonderful and Beautiful Wreck this book is. Gabby and Bowen are each in their own rights messed up and wrecks for different reasons. Fate brings the together both in physical location as well has group of friends. Gabby is a loner, even while in a group of friends and Bowen is just getting back into his group of friends and work family after being in rehab when they are forced somewhat into a relationship. Not really 'forced' but fate moves them together or rather SHOVES them together. Life does work in mysterious ways. This book is well written and gritty at the same time. It has a dark side it it that touches on issues that are sadly a part of everyday life in the foster care system. I love the strength of Gabby even when she is with Bowen. Author Kasey Lane knows how to pen a wonderful well written story that grabs you and keeps you turning the pages until you hit the last one.
May 30, 2018
Beautiful Wreck, by Kasey Lane, is an emotionally satisfying story which sucked me in from the first. Recovered addict, musician and tattoo artist Bowen Landry is working hard to re-establish himself after a massive fall from grace thanks to his addiction. He’s determined to keep clear of women and sex while he finds his feet and until he sees Gabby Alvarez at his sister’s wedding he succeeds pretty well. He’s known Gabby for a little while but seeing her in a dress, unusual for her, makes him realise just how attractive she is.
Gabby is just as determined as Bowen to stay out of a relationship. An appalling childhood capped off by a brutal knife attack when she was seventeen has left her with trust issues, though she can’t help but feel a very inconvenient attraction for Bowen.
This story has many layers and had me questioning a range of issues including child abuse, neglect, trust and our perceptions of the truth but it was also an intensely satisfying read. Bowen and Gabby are complex characters but despite their hard shells each has a soft centre which makes them very likeable. Throw in the sexual pull between the pair and you have a compelling and entertaining story.
Gabby is just as determined as Bowen to stay out of a relationship. An appalling childhood capped off by a brutal knife attack when she was seventeen has left her with trust issues, though she can’t help but feel a very inconvenient attraction for Bowen.
This story has many layers and had me questioning a range of issues including child abuse, neglect, trust and our perceptions of the truth but it was also an intensely satisfying read. Bowen and Gabby are complex characters but despite their hard shells each has a soft centre which makes them very likeable. Throw in the sexual pull between the pair and you have a compelling and entertaining story.
May 30, 2018
New place, new start and hopefully a new life is the premise of Beautiful Wreck by Kasey Lane. Gabrielle Alvarez, moved to Portland, Oregon for that simple reason. Bowen Landry is also at the starting over stage of his personal life. His struggles are just as scarring as Gabby’s. This is the story of two wounded souls who are in the process of recovery, not realizing that love could be a healing force.
Not having read the previous books in the series, I did not see the spiral downfall of Bowen. Perhaps if I had, his promises would have had an even greater impact my view of the story. For the most part, he is a likable guy with tons of baggage but also with a heart of gold. He is a an irresistible reformed bad boy. Then danger surrounds Gabby so Bowen can’t help but step in to help. From there the story continued to become even more complicated. I am not a great tattoo and rocker story fan but those who are will love this book.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Not having read the previous books in the series, I did not see the spiral downfall of Bowen. Perhaps if I had, his promises would have had an even greater impact my view of the story. For the most part, he is a likable guy with tons of baggage but also with a heart of gold. He is a an irresistible reformed bad boy. Then danger surrounds Gabby so Bowen can’t help but step in to help. From there the story continued to become even more complicated. I am not a great tattoo and rocker story fan but those who are will love this book.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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