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Get Ink'd #2
Messy Ink
Dane
Chris is a great doctor, but he can’t heal me…
I learned to look out for myself on the streets and in juvie. I’ve cleaned up my act, but it doesn’t mean that I’m about to start trusting a guy to stick around. Especially not a clean cut doctor like Chris. No wonder I ended things between us the first time around.
I’m sure it’s for the best. A guy like me can’t have a guy like Chris, no matter how much I want him. I’ve done too many bad things, and now karma is coming back to bite me. But every time my path crosses with Chris, I can’t help but wonder what might have been.
Chris
Is Dane too broken to try again with me?
I knew Dane was a player when we hooked up the first time, and I thought I didn’t want strings. But the smoking hot tattoo artist makes me want to break the rules and try something new. His past is full of pain, and I’ve got commitment issues of my own. It’s no wonder we didn’t last.
Dane has hidden depths, and my heart still beats like crazy every time I get close to him. If I let him get too close he could hurt me all over again - but maybe I’m ready to take a risk. Can we overcome the odds and make things work?
Messy Ink is a 70k m/m romance that gives you steamy second chances, a bad boy tattoo artist learning he’s worthy of love, the doctor who’s ready to mend his heart, and tons of gorgeous ink all wrapped up and ready for reality TV.
Chris is a great doctor, but he can’t heal me…
I learned to look out for myself on the streets and in juvie. I’ve cleaned up my act, but it doesn’t mean that I’m about to start trusting a guy to stick around. Especially not a clean cut doctor like Chris. No wonder I ended things between us the first time around.
I’m sure it’s for the best. A guy like me can’t have a guy like Chris, no matter how much I want him. I’ve done too many bad things, and now karma is coming back to bite me. But every time my path crosses with Chris, I can’t help but wonder what might have been.
Chris
Is Dane too broken to try again with me?
I knew Dane was a player when we hooked up the first time, and I thought I didn’t want strings. But the smoking hot tattoo artist makes me want to break the rules and try something new. His past is full of pain, and I’ve got commitment issues of my own. It’s no wonder we didn’t last.
Dane has hidden depths, and my heart still beats like crazy every time I get close to him. If I let him get too close he could hurt me all over again - but maybe I’m ready to take a risk. Can we overcome the odds and make things work?
Messy Ink is a 70k m/m romance that gives you steamy second chances, a bad boy tattoo artist learning he’s worthy of love, the doctor who’s ready to mend his heart, and tons of gorgeous ink all wrapped up and ready for reality TV.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2020
423 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
June 19, 2020
I both like and don’t like this series so far. On the one hand, it has definitely captured my attention…the characters are interesting and I am always a fan of insta love. It is hard for me to explain what I didn’t like without getting into spoilers. Let’s just say, I don’t like it when a character KNOWS they have an insecurity and then they let it get to them anyways. Having self-awareness should make it easier to avoid those kind of pitfalls, and yet in these books it hasn’t even made a difference. I am looking forward to the next book in the series regardless.
dnf
July 27, 2020Dnf
March 30, 2021
Much improvement from book one Daddy Ink to Messy Ink. Seriously, I mean WOW!! This book 100% captured my attention and heart. Dane and Christian were serious perfection, the goofy bad boy who falls for the hot doc? YES!!!
Christian hooked up with Dane despite Dane's warnings of "he doesn't do serious" of course Chris caught feelings for the big goof and now he is left with a broken heart. One of the country's leading surgeons Chris knows he should be able to handle this better than he is, but the things Dane did for Chris didn't scream "hook-up", and now he has to move on while still having to see Dane. Get Ink'd is having a pre-screening of the first episode of the new show that is going to feature all the artists at the shop including Dane and the only reason Chris is going is to support his best friend whose husband is also being featured on the show. He is a grown man he can handle this, until he walks in on a guy with his tongue down Dane's throat. Chris really can't handle this. As time passes, he is not getting any better at letting Dane go but one night a phone call from Dane about his half-brother has Chris rushing to Get Ink'd to find out what Channing has gotten himself into.
Dane doesn't do relationships, hell he doesn't even do repeat hook-ups but something about Christian makes him keep coming back. That is until Chris catches feelings and Dane hightails it away from there as quick as possible. On top of everything with Chris he is helping with medical costs from his Moms stroke and this new tv show at Get Ink'd is the only way to do that. One night, and too many drinks later Dane hooks up with a producer on the show and now that producer won't let Dane go. More though, he is blackmailing Dane so that Dane must give him something in return for the money he is getting from the show. As if he needs more on his plate a late-night break in has him calling Chris to come get his brother.
Dane notices things in Channing that reminds of himself and instead of calling the cops on the kid he and Chris plan to keep Channing off the streets. Channing will stay with his brother and Dane will be Channing's mentor at the shop while he works off the damages from the break-in. As Dane and Chris are thrown into the path of one another Dane realizes he wants so much more with Chris, but he has to get a handle on himself first. That is what he does and when he finally can be the man Chris deserves Dane does everything to win him back. Even with all the progress Dane has made he still thinks he doesn't deserve the happiness he gets with Chris so when one call shatters all the progress Dane has made, he is left more along than ever.
This book packed quite the punch for being so short, even the instalove didn't bother me like it usually does because it was so genuine. These two guys didn't just meet, they had a past and when feelings are caught you can run or stay and fight. It was nice to see them stay and fight even though the road wasn't easy. Channing made this story so much more than I thought it would be, so I am desperately eager to read his book which is up next where he falls for none other than Reagan!!
Christian hooked up with Dane despite Dane's warnings of "he doesn't do serious" of course Chris caught feelings for the big goof and now he is left with a broken heart. One of the country's leading surgeons Chris knows he should be able to handle this better than he is, but the things Dane did for Chris didn't scream "hook-up", and now he has to move on while still having to see Dane. Get Ink'd is having a pre-screening of the first episode of the new show that is going to feature all the artists at the shop including Dane and the only reason Chris is going is to support his best friend whose husband is also being featured on the show. He is a grown man he can handle this, until he walks in on a guy with his tongue down Dane's throat. Chris really can't handle this. As time passes, he is not getting any better at letting Dane go but one night a phone call from Dane about his half-brother has Chris rushing to Get Ink'd to find out what Channing has gotten himself into.
Dane doesn't do relationships, hell he doesn't even do repeat hook-ups but something about Christian makes him keep coming back. That is until Chris catches feelings and Dane hightails it away from there as quick as possible. On top of everything with Chris he is helping with medical costs from his Moms stroke and this new tv show at Get Ink'd is the only way to do that. One night, and too many drinks later Dane hooks up with a producer on the show and now that producer won't let Dane go. More though, he is blackmailing Dane so that Dane must give him something in return for the money he is getting from the show. As if he needs more on his plate a late-night break in has him calling Chris to come get his brother.
Dane notices things in Channing that reminds of himself and instead of calling the cops on the kid he and Chris plan to keep Channing off the streets. Channing will stay with his brother and Dane will be Channing's mentor at the shop while he works off the damages from the break-in. As Dane and Chris are thrown into the path of one another Dane realizes he wants so much more with Chris, but he has to get a handle on himself first. That is what he does and when he finally can be the man Chris deserves Dane does everything to win him back. Even with all the progress Dane has made he still thinks he doesn't deserve the happiness he gets with Chris so when one call shatters all the progress Dane has made, he is left more along than ever.
This book packed quite the punch for being so short, even the instalove didn't bother me like it usually does because it was so genuine. These two guys didn't just meet, they had a past and when feelings are caught you can run or stay and fight. It was nice to see them stay and fight even though the road wasn't easy. Channing made this story so much more than I thought it would be, so I am desperately eager to read his book which is up next where he falls for none other than Reagan!!
June 7, 2020
I enjoyed this one much more than the first. Seriously my heart with both Chris and Dane and then feels for Channing thrown in (I can NOT wait for his book!) I am really glad I gave this series another chance after not loving the first one because I would have hated to miss out on this book.
"Because the next time we see each other, I want to be on the path to being worthy of you- and then I'll never walk away again."
[...]
"Okay. But just know I've always thought you were worthy of me. I'll be waiting for the moment you start to believe it, too."
"Because the next time we see each other, I want to be on the path to being worthy of you- and then I'll never walk away again."
[...]
"Okay. But just know I've always thought you were worthy of me. I'll be waiting for the moment you start to believe it, too."
dnf
October 29, 2023this one didn't grab my attention; also, the constant allusions at a 40 y/o man ogling an 18 y/o boy were a major issue for me.
February 19, 2024
Painful and emotional, but brilliant
This is book 2 in the series, we know Dane and Christian from book 1 and hear of them getting together but something happens between them and nobody knows why they are no longer together. This book delves straight into their relationship just as they have freshly broken up. The reader has the foreknowledge regarding the incident that happened but Christian doesn't and when he witnesses something he has no other reason to believe there is an alternative explanation.
I immediately felt the pull between these two, the chemistry was very strong throughout and that kept you wanting them to sort everything out. It was painstaking watching Dane punish himself and push Christian away. Saying unforgivable words, only to have his heart and head mean the complete opposite. What a truly heartbreaking situation. Christian has his past trauma too and it doesn't take much to completely take away his trust. They really are perfect for each other, if only Dane would let people in. Christian is suddenly thrown in at the deep end when his half brother appears. He has had a troubled life, not unlike Dane. This was a great addition to the story, it gave Christian an insight into Dane's past and helped them navigate their relationship. There is angst throughout this book, lots of feelings and trauma to work through. It takes a lot therapy talking and honesty to get through but the ending was perfect. I loved this story and can't wait to read the next in the series.
This is book 2 in the series, we know Dane and Christian from book 1 and hear of them getting together but something happens between them and nobody knows why they are no longer together. This book delves straight into their relationship just as they have freshly broken up. The reader has the foreknowledge regarding the incident that happened but Christian doesn't and when he witnesses something he has no other reason to believe there is an alternative explanation.
I immediately felt the pull between these two, the chemistry was very strong throughout and that kept you wanting them to sort everything out. It was painstaking watching Dane punish himself and push Christian away. Saying unforgivable words, only to have his heart and head mean the complete opposite. What a truly heartbreaking situation. Christian has his past trauma too and it doesn't take much to completely take away his trust. They really are perfect for each other, if only Dane would let people in. Christian is suddenly thrown in at the deep end when his half brother appears. He has had a troubled life, not unlike Dane. This was a great addition to the story, it gave Christian an insight into Dane's past and helped them navigate their relationship. There is angst throughout this book, lots of feelings and trauma to work through. It takes a lot therapy talking and honesty to get through but the ending was perfect. I loved this story and can't wait to read the next in the series.
June 10, 2020
4.5 stars ⭐️
Dane and Christian both have some things from their past they need to work through before they can make a relationship work. It hurt to see them both in pain without the other but I like that they got real help. The men didn’t just brush aside issues or all of a sudden their loved fixed everything. It took work.
Transgressions are bound to happen but how it’s handled is the sign of true character and I really respect Dane in that moment. He didn’t back down from admitting he was wrong and making sure he showed Christian that he will be there for him because he LOVES him. And boy do their make up sessions rock 😉
Through thick and thin, the whole Get Ink’d family is there for each other and I adore seeing that extend to the men they bring into their lives.
I loved this installment and can not wait for Old Ink with Channing and Reagan 😀😀
Dane and Christian both have some things from their past they need to work through before they can make a relationship work. It hurt to see them both in pain without the other but I like that they got real help. The men didn’t just brush aside issues or all of a sudden their loved fixed everything. It took work.
Transgressions are bound to happen but how it’s handled is the sign of true character and I really respect Dane in that moment. He didn’t back down from admitting he was wrong and making sure he showed Christian that he will be there for him because he LOVES him. And boy do their make up sessions rock 😉
Through thick and thin, the whole Get Ink’d family is there for each other and I adore seeing that extend to the men they bring into their lives.
I loved this installment and can not wait for Old Ink with Channing and Reagan 😀😀
September 3, 2023
This was much better than the first book. I really did like Chris and Dane's story for the most part. What I didn't like was the third-act breakup. This book didn't need it. We already had two breakups before that one. It was absolutely exhausting.
Both of these guys have insecurities, but it's like they couldn't get it together. It was really frustrating to read it. I mean, everything that happens with Channing and other things was enough that we didn't need the extra drama.
I'm starting to get worried about this series. The next book is going to be a 20+ age gap, and I'm nervous. This author and I don't seem to be a good fit, but I'll give it a shot.
Both of these guys have insecurities, but it's like they couldn't get it together. It was really frustrating to read it. I mean, everything that happens with Channing and other things was enough that we didn't need the extra drama.
I'm starting to get worried about this series. The next book is going to be a 20+ age gap, and I'm nervous. This author and I don't seem to be a good fit, but I'll give it a shot.
August 21, 2020
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
I really enjoyed this for the most part. But a couple things really really irked me, so three stars. I loved Dane and his character. He's got issues and he fights through them to be better. I had more patience for his angst and understood it more I guess. I liked Chris for the most part, but I don't know, the big drama at 80% really dinged him for me. I didn't understand why, yes even with his issues, he couldn't have understood what was happening with Dane. But ultimately, I liked both of them, and I enjoyed them together. I'm interested in the pairing that was set up here for book 3, I'm curious how the author will make that work. So I'll be reading that ASAP.
I really enjoyed this for the most part. But a couple things really really irked me, so three stars. I loved Dane and his character. He's got issues and he fights through them to be better. I had more patience for his angst and understood it more I guess. I liked Chris for the most part, but I don't know, the big drama at 80% really dinged him for me. I didn't understand why, yes even with his issues, he couldn't have understood what was happening with Dane. But ultimately, I liked both of them, and I enjoyed them together. I'm interested in the pairing that was set up here for book 3, I'm curious how the author will make that work. So I'll be reading that ASAP.
June 17, 2020
This was a really good lgbt romance. I really liked the main characters, and howthey worked so hard with their relationship to make it work. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about this as, while I love lgbt books, I've never read a male male romance without knowing a lot about it before going into it, but while I wasn't a big fan of the steamier scenes, I loved this story, it made me laugh and cry.
July 3, 2020
Audiobook Review:
This book was soooo much better than the first. I loved both Dane and Christian and the deep dive into their pasts. So sweet, and so smart. I loved how much Dane got into therapy and his entire personality was amazing!! I'm so excited to read Channing's story next!
This book was soooo much better than the first. I loved both Dane and Christian and the deep dive into their pasts. So sweet, and so smart. I loved how much Dane got into therapy and his entire personality was amazing!! I'm so excited to read Channing's story next!
June 16, 2020
I left this at 80%, just at the second or third mental breakdown of Dane, at this point I don't fucking know, so to be specific the one after his mom had the high blood pressure scare. I just flipped my imaginary desk because at this point it was ABSURD!
I mean, you're seeing a therapist, you've identified you're problem, I'm not saying he shouldn't be afraid because the other shoe dropped BUT jesus take the wheel, three months in therapy should have given you some tools to handle it. And Christian? He's gonna take him back, I know he's going to, but at this point is abuse, is stupid an unacceptable, that's why I stopped reading. It's just ridiculous!
I swear to God there are Latin novelas with more sense than this one, and that's not easy. I mean the whole act of the producer with Dane, kissing him, marking his territory in front of everyone and the other (Dane) allowing him? High-school much? Ay no, I think the tropes could have been handled better, you had potential.
In this book there was no Javi so I didn't have the power to finish it, I didn't identify with neither of the characters and is a shame because I thought that this series had potential because exhibit A: Javi. But no, and that makes me SAD. I REALLY WANTED TO LIKE THIS!
😔😔😔
I mean, you're seeing a therapist, you've identified you're problem, I'm not saying he shouldn't be afraid because the other shoe dropped BUT jesus take the wheel, three months in therapy should have given you some tools to handle it. And Christian? He's gonna take him back, I know he's going to, but at this point is abuse, is stupid an unacceptable, that's why I stopped reading. It's just ridiculous!
I swear to God there are Latin novelas with more sense than this one, and that's not easy. I mean the whole act of the producer with Dane, kissing him, marking his territory in front of everyone and the other (Dane) allowing him? High-school much? Ay no, I think the tropes could have been handled better, you had potential.
In this book there was no Javi so I didn't have the power to finish it, I didn't identify with neither of the characters and is a shame because I thought that this series had potential because exhibit A: Javi. But no, and that makes me SAD. I REALLY WANTED TO LIKE THIS!
😔😔😔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2020
Oh yeah, I just knew a book about Dane’s story was going to be great…and it was for me. Dane has a lot of past issues he has been dealing with for years even though he’d managed to look happy in front of the people he loves; deep inside he hated himself.
So, just with mentioning that, there’s quite of bit that goes on in the book as Dane’s past demons struggle to keep Dane swallowed up with his guilt; he’s not destined to have happiness in his life; which really sucked when for the first time in his life a gorgeous man walked in which he can’t stop thinking about.
Yup, it’s Dr. Christian Lowe who from the previous book Dane stumbled during a race and pretended to twist his ankle to get closer to the doctor. This is the only man in Dane’s life that has held his interest for more than a one-night stand; he had to go back for more from his doctor lover.
But the two men do not have an easy romance and breakups were bound to happen and Dane’s outburst of anger and his nasty words towards his doctor lover. It’s just like Dane to foolishly make the mistake of going to bed with the producer of the filming company, Jason for "Get Ink’d" series. Dane was an idiot and he knew it when things might have gotten better with Christian. Jason’s unwanted aggressive behavior cornered Dane in the back room and forced a kiss on the man just as Christian walked in on them. Broken-hearted Christian fled and he didn’t stop even when Dane tried running after him.
In the meantime, Dane had to deal with this mess with Jason happening, and Chris being brokenhearted over Dane and not speaking to him, both have a surprise ahead of them. That came in the form of a group of boys breaking into the tattoo shop breaking a window to get in. Dane catches one of the boys while the rest ran away, and that boy turns out to be Chris’s young half-brother Channing. Channing broke the window to get in and out of the good-heartedness of Dane hires the boy to pay off his debt for the window by working it off. Chris is grateful to Dane, but it doesn’t change how Chris feels.
Dane was riding a rollercoaster from hell as he watched his beloved Chris’s hurt emotions as well as dealing with Jason and his own past demons. The producer, Jason had been making things worse for Dane, Jason had been using his leverage as the man who calls the shots whether the show kept going or if Jason shuts it down.
Dane couldn’t allow the show to end; he was stinking financially with all the medical bills he had to pay for his mother’s last hospital stay and needed that money he earned. Jason blackmailed Dane for sex to keep the show going; Jason was the last person Dane ever wanted sex with ever again; big mistake the first time.
There’s a turn of events when Dane finally has a nervous breakdown trying to juggle the mess in his life and tells his boss, Reagan everything that has been going on with Jason, Chris, and his mother’s mental bills. Reagan’s a great friend and reminds Dane that they are all family at "Get Ink’d". They each help support each other. Once Dane tells all his woes Dane passes out and Channing calls his brother the doctor to come help.
Soon, Dane and Chris’s relationship started doing better, but each man dealt with their own negative inter-self talk trying to override the positives of their relationship as each developed deep emotions and feelings for each other. Dane still lived in fear with the ball and chain of self-doubt attached to him reminding him he wasn’t good enough for Chris. Chris still lived in fear that Dane would one day just walk out of his life, just as his dad had always done.
These two men wanted and loved each other and no matter what hurt or heartache/heartbreak the two men suffered and walk the rocky road to the life they wanted and were worth fighting for each other…and love wins out.
I so adored all the characters but Christian and Dane were my favorites in the book, and Channing turned out to be such a sweetheart, though at the end Channing has his own heartache. This book is a terrific addition to this great series. I’m anxious to see what happens in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So, just with mentioning that, there’s quite of bit that goes on in the book as Dane’s past demons struggle to keep Dane swallowed up with his guilt; he’s not destined to have happiness in his life; which really sucked when for the first time in his life a gorgeous man walked in which he can’t stop thinking about.
Yup, it’s Dr. Christian Lowe who from the previous book Dane stumbled during a race and pretended to twist his ankle to get closer to the doctor. This is the only man in Dane’s life that has held his interest for more than a one-night stand; he had to go back for more from his doctor lover.
But the two men do not have an easy romance and breakups were bound to happen and Dane’s outburst of anger and his nasty words towards his doctor lover. It’s just like Dane to foolishly make the mistake of going to bed with the producer of the filming company, Jason for "Get Ink’d" series. Dane was an idiot and he knew it when things might have gotten better with Christian. Jason’s unwanted aggressive behavior cornered Dane in the back room and forced a kiss on the man just as Christian walked in on them. Broken-hearted Christian fled and he didn’t stop even when Dane tried running after him.
In the meantime, Dane had to deal with this mess with Jason happening, and Chris being brokenhearted over Dane and not speaking to him, both have a surprise ahead of them. That came in the form of a group of boys breaking into the tattoo shop breaking a window to get in. Dane catches one of the boys while the rest ran away, and that boy turns out to be Chris’s young half-brother Channing. Channing broke the window to get in and out of the good-heartedness of Dane hires the boy to pay off his debt for the window by working it off. Chris is grateful to Dane, but it doesn’t change how Chris feels.
Dane was riding a rollercoaster from hell as he watched his beloved Chris’s hurt emotions as well as dealing with Jason and his own past demons. The producer, Jason had been making things worse for Dane, Jason had been using his leverage as the man who calls the shots whether the show kept going or if Jason shuts it down.
Dane couldn’t allow the show to end; he was stinking financially with all the medical bills he had to pay for his mother’s last hospital stay and needed that money he earned. Jason blackmailed Dane for sex to keep the show going; Jason was the last person Dane ever wanted sex with ever again; big mistake the first time.
There’s a turn of events when Dane finally has a nervous breakdown trying to juggle the mess in his life and tells his boss, Reagan everything that has been going on with Jason, Chris, and his mother’s mental bills. Reagan’s a great friend and reminds Dane that they are all family at "Get Ink’d". They each help support each other. Once Dane tells all his woes Dane passes out and Channing calls his brother the doctor to come help.
Soon, Dane and Chris’s relationship started doing better, but each man dealt with their own negative inter-self talk trying to override the positives of their relationship as each developed deep emotions and feelings for each other. Dane still lived in fear with the ball and chain of self-doubt attached to him reminding him he wasn’t good enough for Chris. Chris still lived in fear that Dane would one day just walk out of his life, just as his dad had always done.
These two men wanted and loved each other and no matter what hurt or heartache/heartbreak the two men suffered and walk the rocky road to the life they wanted and were worth fighting for each other…and love wins out.
I so adored all the characters but Christian and Dane were my favorites in the book, and Channing turned out to be such a sweetheart, though at the end Channing has his own heartache. This book is a terrific addition to this great series. I’m anxious to see what happens in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2020
Dane Hart is a troubled guy with a problematic past. It’s a past full of violence and crime. As a teen, he ended up getting involved with the wrong crowd which led to some time spent in juvie. Dane’s life really could have gone to hell, but he got a lucky break, cleaned up his act, and started to make something of his life. He ended up with a job as a tattoo artist at Get Ink’d and made good friends with his work family. Life was pretty good for him, and he turned into quite the playboy until his mom had a stroke.
Christian Lowe is a world-class surgeon, one of the top surgeons in the state, at the hospital doing emergency surgeries. He too had a troubled past but it was different than Dane’s. Chris had a flighty father who would come and go in his life, building up his trust before casting him aside again. Because of that, Chris suffers from abandonment issues. His only stable relationships are with his good friend Gordo and his mom. He’s a man with commitment issues and doesn’t plan on risking his heart.
These two men couldn’t be more different. Dane is the tatted-up bad boy while Chris is a clean-cut surgeon, and yet they come together to start a passionate casual fling. Because of their individual personal issues, a casual hook-up seems like a good plan. What they didn’t expect was real feelings to become involved. Chris finds himself wanting more from Dane despite their original arrangement. When Chris starts pushing him for more, the troubled tattoo artist breaks things off.
Chris and Dane are brought back together when Chris gets a call from Dane asking him to come to Get Ink’d. Chris’ younger brother, Channing, was caught breaking into the shop with some of his friends. They’d seen the shop when the Get Ink’d show aired on TV and thought they’d get some money by robbing the place. Dane decided to give the kid a break because Dane had stopped the robbery and there was only one broken window in the back. He wanted to give the kid a chance as Reagan gave to him when he was a troubled youth. So he calls Chris to get his brother and they decide to let Channing work off the cost of the broken window.
From that point, there is so much that happens in this book. Channing is given a second chance by Dane, Chris, and Reagan. He moves in with his older brother who helps to help get his life on track. Meanwhile, Dane realizes that he needs professional help for his issues. His efforts to better himself helps him and Christian find their way back to each other. They have problems, for sure, until things get worked out once and for all. Jason is an annoying pest who shows up again, but Chris shuts him down pretty quickly which was funny to see. There’s drama, hurt, reconciliation, personal growth, the development of something between Channing and Reagan, and a happy ever after.
I loved the problems that these characters have. They come across as real people with real problems. It was great to see that Dane, Chris, and Channing were all willing to get professional help. It was obvious they needed to work on their mental health for different reasons. They all had things haunting them that were preventing each from living a happy, healthy life. It’s great to see someone struggle but overcome those struggles with help from their friends and family. This book really delivered when it came to that.
Honestly, if you enjoyed book one, I think you’ll love this addition to the series. Some moments hit me in the heart, scenes that made me tear up. So if you want a book that makes you have all the feels, good and bad, check this out. The narrator and author both did a wonderful job bringing you a captivating story about troubled individuals who overcome their struggles to live happily ever after.
Christian Lowe is a world-class surgeon, one of the top surgeons in the state, at the hospital doing emergency surgeries. He too had a troubled past but it was different than Dane’s. Chris had a flighty father who would come and go in his life, building up his trust before casting him aside again. Because of that, Chris suffers from abandonment issues. His only stable relationships are with his good friend Gordo and his mom. He’s a man with commitment issues and doesn’t plan on risking his heart.
These two men couldn’t be more different. Dane is the tatted-up bad boy while Chris is a clean-cut surgeon, and yet they come together to start a passionate casual fling. Because of their individual personal issues, a casual hook-up seems like a good plan. What they didn’t expect was real feelings to become involved. Chris finds himself wanting more from Dane despite their original arrangement. When Chris starts pushing him for more, the troubled tattoo artist breaks things off.
Chris and Dane are brought back together when Chris gets a call from Dane asking him to come to Get Ink’d. Chris’ younger brother, Channing, was caught breaking into the shop with some of his friends. They’d seen the shop when the Get Ink’d show aired on TV and thought they’d get some money by robbing the place. Dane decided to give the kid a break because Dane had stopped the robbery and there was only one broken window in the back. He wanted to give the kid a chance as Reagan gave to him when he was a troubled youth. So he calls Chris to get his brother and they decide to let Channing work off the cost of the broken window.
From that point, there is so much that happens in this book. Channing is given a second chance by Dane, Chris, and Reagan. He moves in with his older brother who helps to help get his life on track. Meanwhile, Dane realizes that he needs professional help for his issues. His efforts to better himself helps him and Christian find their way back to each other. They have problems, for sure, until things get worked out once and for all. Jason is an annoying pest who shows up again, but Chris shuts him down pretty quickly which was funny to see. There’s drama, hurt, reconciliation, personal growth, the development of something between Channing and Reagan, and a happy ever after.
I loved the problems that these characters have. They come across as real people with real problems. It was great to see that Dane, Chris, and Channing were all willing to get professional help. It was obvious they needed to work on their mental health for different reasons. They all had things haunting them that were preventing each from living a happy, healthy life. It’s great to see someone struggle but overcome those struggles with help from their friends and family. This book really delivered when it came to that.
Honestly, if you enjoyed book one, I think you’ll love this addition to the series. Some moments hit me in the heart, scenes that made me tear up. So if you want a book that makes you have all the feels, good and bad, check this out. The narrator and author both did a wonderful job bringing you a captivating story about troubled individuals who overcome their struggles to live happily ever after.
August 20, 2021
No creí que podría gustarme tanto como lo hizo.
¡Dios! Si ya amaba en demasía a Javi, a Channing y Reagan; Chris y Dane se han llevado mi corazón entero.
Vale, para ser honesta no recuerdo lo que puse en mis demás reseñas, solo sé que amo con la vida a cada personaje de ésta serie.
Empezando por lo bueno es que sinceramente no creí que este libro pudiese superar mis expectativas porque aunque sabía que terminaban juntos me hizo sentir una bruma de emociones, ¡gigante!
Cada momento lo sentí demasiado. Y en cada capítulo estaba un tanto desesperada (de buena manera) para que las cosas se arreglaran y ambos pudieran reconocer sus errores y perdonarse a sí mismos.
Algo que amé demasiado fue la importancia que le dio a la salud mental y emocional. Que la autora lo incluyera y que el cambio de los personas se viera reflejado es algo que hay que agradecerle. En este tipo de tramas pasan de largo con los temas de la salud, y aunque sea ficción eso le quita un tanto de credibilidad a la historia. Así que sí, fue uno de los puntos que más amé. (Incluso si no se profundizó como pudo haberlo hecho).
Aunque debo admitir que no vi tantos cambios en Chris como me hubiese gustado para hacer las cosas más fáciles entre él y Dane, sin embargo, los cambios que tuvo Dane fueron enormes y muy significativos, lo que me pareció una evolución súper hermosa.
La comedia. ¡Oh, dios mío! DANE ES TODO LO BUENO DE ESTE COCHINO MUNDO. Su manera tan única de ser, el como se toma diversas situaciones, sus bromas y el sinvergüenza que es casi constantemente me hizo enamorarme profundamente de él. ¡¿Por qué no hay hombres en la vida real así?!
Yo no pido un sugar, yo pido un Dane Hart 😭✋🏻
Ok, ya, aksksk.
Chris fue una masita que quería proteger, amar y a veces —tal vez muchas veces—, alguien a quien quería golpear tan fuerte que se le reiniciara el Windows para que se diera cuenta de lo mucho que Dane estaba haciendo para estar a su lado. (Pero vaya que ame al doc sexy)
Los puntos malos, a mi parecer.
Siento que el hecho de que la autora dé a conocer a la próxima pareja del siguiente libro desde un libro antes y no explote el inicio de su historia es algo que le quita contexto a la historia.
Me parece increíble que incluya a los personajes desde el inicio de un libro anterior, pero hay muchos detalles que siento que faltan.
Puede que no se tan interesante para muchos, pero me hubiera gustado mucho ver la primera interacción de Chris y Dane desde su perspectiva.
La autora da por sentada su relación y no hay nada más allá de lo que nos dan en el presente ( cuando ya hay sentimientos involucrados, e incluso una historia algo avanzada entre los protagonistas). Si no me hubiera saltado este libro pensaría que sólo sucede de esta manera en este, pero lamentablemente en el de Channing y Reagan pasa exactamente lo mismo; nunca explica como comenzó su conexión, su atracción, porque en primer instancia se gustaron o se llamaron la atención, etc.
Pero debo de admitir que amo demasiado a los personas, y aunque por una parte me sienta un tanto vacía de información eso no me hace amar menos la historia. Es uno de los pocos libros más reconfortantes —en el sentido de que puedes sentir de verdad los sentimientos y acontecimientos por los que pasan los personajes—, hermosos, y con un sentido un tanto real que he leído.
No puedo darle menos estrellas. Para mí, merece incluso más que cinco. Y no sólo por el maravilloso Dane Hart. 🤧❤
¡Dios! Si ya amaba en demasía a Javi, a Channing y Reagan; Chris y Dane se han llevado mi corazón entero.
Vale, para ser honesta no recuerdo lo que puse en mis demás reseñas, solo sé que amo con la vida a cada personaje de ésta serie.
Empezando por lo bueno es que sinceramente no creí que este libro pudiese superar mis expectativas porque aunque sabía que terminaban juntos me hizo sentir una bruma de emociones, ¡gigante!
Cada momento lo sentí demasiado. Y en cada capítulo estaba un tanto desesperada (de buena manera) para que las cosas se arreglaran y ambos pudieran reconocer sus errores y perdonarse a sí mismos.
Algo que amé demasiado fue la importancia que le dio a la salud mental y emocional. Que la autora lo incluyera y que el cambio de los personas se viera reflejado es algo que hay que agradecerle. En este tipo de tramas pasan de largo con los temas de la salud, y aunque sea ficción eso le quita un tanto de credibilidad a la historia. Así que sí, fue uno de los puntos que más amé. (Incluso si no se profundizó como pudo haberlo hecho).
Aunque debo admitir que no vi tantos cambios en Chris como me hubiese gustado para hacer las cosas más fáciles entre él y Dane, sin embargo, los cambios que tuvo Dane fueron enormes y muy significativos, lo que me pareció una evolución súper hermosa.
La comedia. ¡Oh, dios mío! DANE ES TODO LO BUENO DE ESTE COCHINO MUNDO. Su manera tan única de ser, el como se toma diversas situaciones, sus bromas y el sinvergüenza que es casi constantemente me hizo enamorarme profundamente de él. ¡¿Por qué no hay hombres en la vida real así?!
Yo no pido un sugar, yo pido un Dane Hart 😭✋🏻
Ok, ya, aksksk.
Chris fue una masita que quería proteger, amar y a veces —tal vez muchas veces—, alguien a quien quería golpear tan fuerte que se le reiniciara el Windows para que se diera cuenta de lo mucho que Dane estaba haciendo para estar a su lado. (Pero vaya que ame al doc sexy)
Los puntos malos, a mi parecer.
Siento que el hecho de que la autora dé a conocer a la próxima pareja del siguiente libro desde un libro antes y no explote el inicio de su historia es algo que le quita contexto a la historia.
Me parece increíble que incluya a los personajes desde el inicio de un libro anterior, pero hay muchos detalles que siento que faltan.
Puede que no se tan interesante para muchos, pero me hubiera gustado mucho ver la primera interacción de Chris y Dane desde su perspectiva.
La autora da por sentada su relación y no hay nada más allá de lo que nos dan en el presente ( cuando ya hay sentimientos involucrados, e incluso una historia algo avanzada entre los protagonistas). Si no me hubiera saltado este libro pensaría que sólo sucede de esta manera en este, pero lamentablemente en el de Channing y Reagan pasa exactamente lo mismo; nunca explica como comenzó su conexión, su atracción, porque en primer instancia se gustaron o se llamaron la atención, etc.
Pero debo de admitir que amo demasiado a los personas, y aunque por una parte me sienta un tanto vacía de información eso no me hace amar menos la historia. Es uno de los pocos libros más reconfortantes —en el sentido de que puedes sentir de verdad los sentimientos y acontecimientos por los que pasan los personajes—, hermosos, y con un sentido un tanto real que he leído.
No puedo darle menos estrellas. Para mí, merece incluso más que cinco. Y no sólo por el maravilloso Dane Hart. 🤧❤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2020
Third Times the Charm (audio review)
I enjoyed Daddy Ink, but struggled with narration, and I didn’t like the amount of breaking up, getting back together, hurting each other, etc. that went on in the book. Optimist that I am, I picked up this second book with high hopes.
Let me start with narration – Connor Brown is someone I’ve listened to before and he’s a good narrator. He certainly delivers a solid performance with this book and I enjoyed listening to him.
Now the book. In retrospect, there was a lot of back and forth, breaking up and getting back together, and hurting each other. Somehow this book was less painful than the last. I think part of that was having the involvement of an important secondary character.
In this book, Dane is a tattoo artist with a bit of a problem. He and his crew have been tapped to do a television show. His mother requires a fulltime nurse, so this gig is a must. He is barely squeaking by but that won’t hold. This television show is a god send. What is not so great is the producer who won’t take a hint. Jason is definitely the villain of the piece. And who hasn’t faced someone in their lives who won’t back off. Won’t take a hint.
Plus, Dane has someone he is interested in – the surgeon Christian. But Dane weirdly believes that if he allows something good into his life that bad things will happen. That might sound bizarre, but I’ve had that thought myself a time or two. Don’t enjoy this too much because the other shoe is going to drop any day now and it’ll all come crashing down. Better to keep expectations low. Chris doesn’t understand Dane’s sudden withdrawal when things are going well and is leery to let the man back into his life. Then Chris’ life is turned upside down with the reappearance of his younger brother Channing into his life. Suddenly he and Dane are drawn together, both wanting to put Channing on the straight and narrow.
This brings up memories of their childhoods – neither had it easy. As they help Channing, things start to get back on track between the men. Then something bad happens in Dane’s life, he turns away from Chris, and the whole cycle repeats. It broke my heart. But, third time’s the charm and they do finally talk to each other and figure things out. All good. I loved seen Javi and Gordo from the first book, but what I really like is the set up for the next book – Dane’s boss Regan and Chris’ younger brother Channing. There is a serious age gap between the two, so I’ll be interested to see how that works out. Hopefully the book will come to audio soon.
I enjoyed Daddy Ink, but struggled with narration, and I didn’t like the amount of breaking up, getting back together, hurting each other, etc. that went on in the book. Optimist that I am, I picked up this second book with high hopes.
Let me start with narration – Connor Brown is someone I’ve listened to before and he’s a good narrator. He certainly delivers a solid performance with this book and I enjoyed listening to him.
Now the book. In retrospect, there was a lot of back and forth, breaking up and getting back together, and hurting each other. Somehow this book was less painful than the last. I think part of that was having the involvement of an important secondary character.
In this book, Dane is a tattoo artist with a bit of a problem. He and his crew have been tapped to do a television show. His mother requires a fulltime nurse, so this gig is a must. He is barely squeaking by but that won’t hold. This television show is a god send. What is not so great is the producer who won’t take a hint. Jason is definitely the villain of the piece. And who hasn’t faced someone in their lives who won’t back off. Won’t take a hint.
Plus, Dane has someone he is interested in – the surgeon Christian. But Dane weirdly believes that if he allows something good into his life that bad things will happen. That might sound bizarre, but I’ve had that thought myself a time or two. Don’t enjoy this too much because the other shoe is going to drop any day now and it’ll all come crashing down. Better to keep expectations low. Chris doesn’t understand Dane’s sudden withdrawal when things are going well and is leery to let the man back into his life. Then Chris’ life is turned upside down with the reappearance of his younger brother Channing into his life. Suddenly he and Dane are drawn together, both wanting to put Channing on the straight and narrow.
This brings up memories of their childhoods – neither had it easy. As they help Channing, things start to get back on track between the men. Then something bad happens in Dane’s life, he turns away from Chris, and the whole cycle repeats. It broke my heart. But, third time’s the charm and they do finally talk to each other and figure things out. All good. I loved seen Javi and Gordo from the first book, but what I really like is the set up for the next book – Dane’s boss Regan and Chris’ younger brother Channing. There is a serious age gap between the two, so I’ll be interested to see how that works out. Hopefully the book will come to audio soon.
June 12, 2020
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I can't deny it: I was expecting something... messier, in the bad sense.
First book was good and I liked the characters, but the ways in which Gordo messed up things with Javi weren't perfectly developed for me, a bit too much cruel words than benting badly, you know? Dane and Chris's relationship started in book 1 and it promised drama. Lots of drama. And I was scared of it going like with Gordo.
To my surprise, it wasn't. Not exactly.
The first half I loved. I don't have even one complaint about it. It has that sad and painful feeling of two guys who are madly in love but that for some reasons aren't. And there's Jason, and how Dane can't deal with him until he gets help from his crew.
The second half is a little bit messier but in my opinion, better developed than book 1.
Dane can't come into terms with his past. Being an ex gang member and having done things that still haunt him, he thinks he doesn't deserve love. Let's not talk about someone as perfect for him as Chris. Dane has issues that he needs to overcome, and his are issues that don't heal from one day to the other, but rather will need years of therapy and ups and downs.
Chris, in his own way, has his own worries. And some of them are triggered by Dane and his instability, but he's up to fight for him.
With this, in the second half there are some dramatic moments in which wrong things are said, tears are shed and hearts are broken... But I found every turning point to be credible. I understand Dane snapping, because he's emotionally not that stable yet, and I understand too Chris feeling he can't forgive him until he finally does.
Channing was a real nice addition to this series. I'm looking forward to discovering his story alongside Reagan, and I can't wait to discover more about the big bear Irish man. Age gaps, if well developed, do it for me, and this time the gap is pretty big... So looking forward to it!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I can't deny it: I was expecting something... messier, in the bad sense.
First book was good and I liked the characters, but the ways in which Gordo messed up things with Javi weren't perfectly developed for me, a bit too much cruel words than benting badly, you know? Dane and Chris's relationship started in book 1 and it promised drama. Lots of drama. And I was scared of it going like with Gordo.
To my surprise, it wasn't. Not exactly.
The first half I loved. I don't have even one complaint about it. It has that sad and painful feeling of two guys who are madly in love but that for some reasons aren't. And there's Jason, and how Dane can't deal with him until he gets help from his crew.
The second half is a little bit messier but in my opinion, better developed than book 1.
Dane can't come into terms with his past. Being an ex gang member and having done things that still haunt him, he thinks he doesn't deserve love. Let's not talk about someone as perfect for him as Chris. Dane has issues that he needs to overcome, and his are issues that don't heal from one day to the other, but rather will need years of therapy and ups and downs.
Chris, in his own way, has his own worries. And some of them are triggered by Dane and his instability, but he's up to fight for him.
With this, in the second half there are some dramatic moments in which wrong things are said, tears are shed and hearts are broken... But I found every turning point to be credible. I understand Dane snapping, because he's emotionally not that stable yet, and I understand too Chris feeling he can't forgive him until he finally does.
Channing was a real nice addition to this series. I'm looking forward to discovering his story alongside Reagan, and I can't wait to discover more about the big bear Irish man. Age gaps, if well developed, do it for me, and this time the gap is pretty big... So looking forward to it!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2020
I debated on the rating for this book for awhile. There were quite a few things that I couldn't get by or get with, but ultimately I based the rating on my enjoyment of the book.
I do love a good Second Chance and Opposites Attract Romance. However, when one main character continuously makes the wrong the decision, lashes out on the person he claims to love, and intentional hurts the person he claims to love, I find it hard to believe that they are this "changed man". I struggled to believe that Dane had changed his ways because he kept making the same mistakes. No, I did not like nor care for him hooking up with Josh (I think that was his name), being drunk is no excuse. He did it to intentionally hurt Chris, and I could not respect or forgive him for that. Because Chris was a good guy who already had issues of abandonment.
I understand that Dane had his own issues, but I do not give him the free pass of being a complete jerk to Chris for just wanting him to open up. It was hard getting past that, and I don't know if I ultimately did. In the end, I think Chris was the catalyst for making Dane be a better man. Therapy took center stage in the book, not just for Dane but for other characters as well, and I appreciated that.
I also liked that I could see moments of kindness in Dane when he helped Chris with his brother. But when it came to a certain in the hospital concerning Dane and his mother and the drive home, I was so mad at the aftermath. I'm still mad that Chris gave in so easily. I wanted Chris to grovel a bit more, and I wanted him to FULLY prove that he is changed for the better. The last line also threw me a bit because it referenced Chris walking in on Dane kissing the Josh guy, and that was in poor taste considering everything.
However, I did enjoy this book for the most part because of Chris and his ability to forgive. I am also quite happy to learn that Chris's brother will be getting his own book. I can only hope though that we can continue to see Dane improve upon his own character though.
*ARC provided, and I have given my honest review*
I do love a good Second Chance and Opposites Attract Romance. However, when one main character continuously makes the wrong the decision, lashes out on the person he claims to love, and intentional hurts the person he claims to love, I find it hard to believe that they are this "changed man". I struggled to believe that Dane had changed his ways because he kept making the same mistakes. No, I did not like nor care for him hooking up with Josh (I think that was his name), being drunk is no excuse. He did it to intentionally hurt Chris, and I could not respect or forgive him for that. Because Chris was a good guy who already had issues of abandonment.
I understand that Dane had his own issues, but I do not give him the free pass of being a complete jerk to Chris for just wanting him to open up. It was hard getting past that, and I don't know if I ultimately did. In the end, I think Chris was the catalyst for making Dane be a better man. Therapy took center stage in the book, not just for Dane but for other characters as well, and I appreciated that.
I also liked that I could see moments of kindness in Dane when he helped Chris with his brother. But when it came to a certain in the hospital concerning Dane and his mother and the drive home, I was so mad at the aftermath. I'm still mad that Chris gave in so easily. I wanted Chris to grovel a bit more, and I wanted him to FULLY prove that he is changed for the better. The last line also threw me a bit because it referenced Chris walking in on Dane kissing the Josh guy, and that was in poor taste considering everything.
However, I did enjoy this book for the most part because of Chris and his ability to forgive. I am also quite happy to learn that Chris's brother will be getting his own book. I can only hope though that we can continue to see Dane improve upon his own character though.
*ARC provided, and I have given my honest review*
April 24, 2021
Warning Self Destructed Button Has Been Activated...
by and1515
I should have known better all I did was ask a simple question that had him running out the door like his hair was on fire.
My life lately seems to be filled with nothing but mistakes and for some dumb reason I simply can't stop myself.
No I really shouldn't have over reacted to such stupid question however I stormed off like a little kid.
And then if I haven't made enough mistakes I pushed away the one man I honestly liked to hooking up with another.
But now he's in my face for a repeat performance and doesn't want to hear the word no. Yeah wow to resort to such tactics all because he couldn't handle rejection. And if all this wasn't bad enough Christian had to see him checking my tonsils for me.
I should have remembered after all these years bad boys don't stay they'll eventually leave.
Poor boy thought I'd actually be playing his stupid game and follow him nope I hade plans that no good man would cancel for a piece of ...
Really didn't expect to hear from Dane any time soon but to find out my dumb half brother and his even dumber friends tried to rob the shop he worked at left me shaking my head.
But now Channing would be working there to pay for the window they'd broke.
Dane never dreamed he'd be stuck in a tough situation like this with his back to the proverbial wall he could feel the pressure of trying to keep that jerk happy enough but still not give him what he wanted.
However even with his stubborn hubris he had plenty of friends who knew he wasn't okay and when push came to shove his own boss came through for him. One.. Two.. Three.. One.. Two.. Three.
Yeah a crazy beat for two guys who keep moving around in each others orbit.
Unfortunately Dane it a hard headed man who has the uncanny ability to torpedo anything good in his life.
And poor Christian tired of waiting to be appreciated for his super awesomeness.
But when his brother disappears they'll have to put their differences aside while the search high and low for him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
I should have known better all I did was ask a simple question that had him running out the door like his hair was on fire.
My life lately seems to be filled with nothing but mistakes and for some dumb reason I simply can't stop myself.
No I really shouldn't have over reacted to such stupid question however I stormed off like a little kid.
And then if I haven't made enough mistakes I pushed away the one man I honestly liked to hooking up with another.
But now he's in my face for a repeat performance and doesn't want to hear the word no. Yeah wow to resort to such tactics all because he couldn't handle rejection. And if all this wasn't bad enough Christian had to see him checking my tonsils for me.
I should have remembered after all these years bad boys don't stay they'll eventually leave.
Poor boy thought I'd actually be playing his stupid game and follow him nope I hade plans that no good man would cancel for a piece of ...
Really didn't expect to hear from Dane any time soon but to find out my dumb half brother and his even dumber friends tried to rob the shop he worked at left me shaking my head.
But now Channing would be working there to pay for the window they'd broke.
Dane never dreamed he'd be stuck in a tough situation like this with his back to the proverbial wall he could feel the pressure of trying to keep that jerk happy enough but still not give him what he wanted.
However even with his stubborn hubris he had plenty of friends who knew he wasn't okay and when push came to shove his own boss came through for him. One.. Two.. Three.. One.. Two.. Three.
Yeah a crazy beat for two guys who keep moving around in each others orbit.
Unfortunately Dane it a hard headed man who has the uncanny ability to torpedo anything good in his life.
And poor Christian tired of waiting to be appreciated for his super awesomeness.
But when his brother disappears they'll have to put their differences aside while the search high and low for him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2020
OMG MY HEART WAS IN MY MOUTH THE WHOLE TIME FOR DANE AND CHRISTIAN
WOW THIS BOOK WAS SO EMOTIONAL. MY HEART WAS IN MOUTH FOR DANE AND CHRISTIAN, I JUST WANTED TO BANG THEIR HEADS TOGETHER BUT THEY JUST HAD SO MUCH BAGGAGE FROM THEIR PASTS THAT THEY HAD TO WORK OUT. THEY BOTH HAD DIFFICULT CHILDHOOD FOR DIFFERENT REASONS BUT ITS AMAZING HOW IT CAN STILL EFFECT THEM IN THEIR EVERYDAY LIFE'S.
DANE NEVER WANTED TO GET ATTACHED TO ANYONE. NEVER HOOKING UP WITH A GUY TWICE SO WHAT DID CHRISTIAN HAVE THAT MADE HIM KEEP GOING BACK FOR MORE??? THIS MAYBE THE 20TH TIME HE WAS SPENDING TIME WITH HIM AND EVEN COOKING FOR HIM AFTER A BUSY 12 HOUR SHIFT AFTER WORKING AT THE HOSPITAL. THEY WERE HAVING A BRILLIANT NIGHT UNTIL CHRISTIAN ASKS HIM SOMETHING THAT SHOWED THAT CHRISTIAN CARED AND DANE PANICED AND EVERYTHING WENT WRONG.
CHRISTIAN WAS FALLING FOR DANE AND EHE KNEW IT WAS A MISTAKE. DANE HAD BEEN HONEST FROM THE START AND TELL HIM HE ONLY DOES HOOK UPS BUT WHEN THEY ARE TOGETHER IT FEELS SO MUCH MORE THAN THAT. HE IS AMAZING AND ITS GETTING HARDER EACH DAY NOT TO SHOW HIS FEELINGS.
BUT WHEN CHRISTIAN GOES TO SEE DANE AT THE TATTOO SHOP WHAT HE SEES COULD RUIN EVERYTHING FOR THESE TWO. BUT NOT EVERYTHING YOU SEE IS WHAT IS REALLY HAPPENING.
AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING THIS BOOK BLEW ME AWAY!!!!!! I COULDNT PUT IT DOWN AND THE EMOTIONS I WENT THROUGH WHILST READING THIS BOOK IN ONE SITTING HAD MY HEART IN MY MOUTH!!!!!! THEY ARE AMAZING MEN. THE WHOLE GROUP AT THE TATTOO SHOP ARE BRILLIANT AND I CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK BECAUSE I ALREADY KNOW ITS GOINF TO BE AWSOME.
DANE AND CHRISTIAN WILL HAVE YOU HOOKED TO THEIR STORY ITS JUST A FANTASTIC READ. I WOULD RECOMMEND THAT YOU READ THE FIRST BOOK IN THE SERIES DADDY INK TO SEE WHERE THE STORY STARTS FOR THE MEN OF THE TATTOO SHOP.
I AM SUPER EXCITED AND ADDICTED TO THIS SERIES WOOOOOHOOOOOOO A MAAAAAZZZZ ZZINNNNNGGGGGGGGGG
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
WOW THIS BOOK WAS SO EMOTIONAL. MY HEART WAS IN MOUTH FOR DANE AND CHRISTIAN, I JUST WANTED TO BANG THEIR HEADS TOGETHER BUT THEY JUST HAD SO MUCH BAGGAGE FROM THEIR PASTS THAT THEY HAD TO WORK OUT. THEY BOTH HAD DIFFICULT CHILDHOOD FOR DIFFERENT REASONS BUT ITS AMAZING HOW IT CAN STILL EFFECT THEM IN THEIR EVERYDAY LIFE'S.
DANE NEVER WANTED TO GET ATTACHED TO ANYONE. NEVER HOOKING UP WITH A GUY TWICE SO WHAT DID CHRISTIAN HAVE THAT MADE HIM KEEP GOING BACK FOR MORE??? THIS MAYBE THE 20TH TIME HE WAS SPENDING TIME WITH HIM AND EVEN COOKING FOR HIM AFTER A BUSY 12 HOUR SHIFT AFTER WORKING AT THE HOSPITAL. THEY WERE HAVING A BRILLIANT NIGHT UNTIL CHRISTIAN ASKS HIM SOMETHING THAT SHOWED THAT CHRISTIAN CARED AND DANE PANICED AND EVERYTHING WENT WRONG.
CHRISTIAN WAS FALLING FOR DANE AND EHE KNEW IT WAS A MISTAKE. DANE HAD BEEN HONEST FROM THE START AND TELL HIM HE ONLY DOES HOOK UPS BUT WHEN THEY ARE TOGETHER IT FEELS SO MUCH MORE THAN THAT. HE IS AMAZING AND ITS GETTING HARDER EACH DAY NOT TO SHOW HIS FEELINGS.
BUT WHEN CHRISTIAN GOES TO SEE DANE AT THE TATTOO SHOP WHAT HE SEES COULD RUIN EVERYTHING FOR THESE TWO. BUT NOT EVERYTHING YOU SEE IS WHAT IS REALLY HAPPENING.
AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING THIS BOOK BLEW ME AWAY!!!!!! I COULDNT PUT IT DOWN AND THE EMOTIONS I WENT THROUGH WHILST READING THIS BOOK IN ONE SITTING HAD MY HEART IN MY MOUTH!!!!!! THEY ARE AMAZING MEN. THE WHOLE GROUP AT THE TATTOO SHOP ARE BRILLIANT AND I CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK BECAUSE I ALREADY KNOW ITS GOINF TO BE AWSOME.
DANE AND CHRISTIAN WILL HAVE YOU HOOKED TO THEIR STORY ITS JUST A FANTASTIC READ. I WOULD RECOMMEND THAT YOU READ THE FIRST BOOK IN THE SERIES DADDY INK TO SEE WHERE THE STORY STARTS FOR THE MEN OF THE TATTOO SHOP.
I AM SUPER EXCITED AND ADDICTED TO THIS SERIES WOOOOOHOOOOOOO A MAAAAAZZZZ ZZINNNNNGGGGGGGGGG
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2020
Dane is closed-off, and hides his feelings behind humor. Christian is a surgeon who is afraid to let someone else in after watching his dad repeatedly walk in and out of his life. But for the first time Christian is ready to risk his heart for someone. Dane has made it clear to Chris that he is not looking for a relationship but then why does he think about Chris when he's not there? How did what was supposed to be a one-time hook up turn into a weekly arrangement? Dane's defenses are crumbling and he has to decide if he is all in or risk breaking Chris's heart all over again. We also get to see our previous friends from the first novel; Javi and Gordo; along with Mateo (Dane's roommate), Reagan and Channing.
Might be some SPOILERS!!
This is the second book in the Get Ink'd series and it can be read as a standalone. I liked this one a little bit better then the first one, I felt there wasn't as much drama. However, both books kinda go back and fourth too much with the will they won't they trope. In this book especially it got a bit tedious because just when you think things are good one of the characters takes like three steps back. But I did love the connection that Chris and Dane had and I liked how you have this straight-laced surgeon with this bad-boy tattoo artist; talk about hot and steamy! I highly recommend reading this book! I'm also really excited to hear more about Channing, who is Chris's brother and was introduced in this novel. I really loved his snark and spunk, he was the fresh voice this book needed and he really helped solidify the relationship between Chris and Dane. Additionally, I cannot wait to hear more about him and Reagan, the little droplets of their interactions left me wanting more, so needless to say I'm very pumped about what is too come!
Might be some SPOILERS!!
This is the second book in the Get Ink'd series and it can be read as a standalone. I liked this one a little bit better then the first one, I felt there wasn't as much drama. However, both books kinda go back and fourth too much with the will they won't they trope. In this book especially it got a bit tedious because just when you think things are good one of the characters takes like three steps back. But I did love the connection that Chris and Dane had and I liked how you have this straight-laced surgeon with this bad-boy tattoo artist; talk about hot and steamy! I highly recommend reading this book! I'm also really excited to hear more about Channing, who is Chris's brother and was introduced in this novel. I really loved his snark and spunk, he was the fresh voice this book needed and he really helped solidify the relationship between Chris and Dane. Additionally, I cannot wait to hear more about him and Reagan, the little droplets of their interactions left me wanting more, so needless to say I'm very pumped about what is too come!
August 20, 2020
I loved Dane and Christian (Chris)! I did not read the first book, so I will say I felt like I came in in the middle of a story, particularly because when the book starts, Dane and Chris are already in a relationship, and the book never really explains how they got to that point except by a later reference to Dane “faking an ankle injury” to meet Chris. So, yeah, had I read the books in sequence, I wouldn’t have felt that break in the plot, but honestly, it didn’t really impact my enjoyment of the book, and you don’t need to have seen their initial meet up to be completely engrossed and engaged with this book and the two MCs.
This book presented such an authentic, complex portrayal of a couple struggling with significant issues borne of childhood trauma that have left lasting scars on both of them, although in different ways. Dane has more “baggage” and the greater struggle, although Chris has his own ingrained abandonment fears which certainly contribute to some of the spiraling in Dane and Chris’ relationship. The description of Dane’s struggles was so real and so well-written, it is felt deeply and you completely understand, and even anticipate his reactions. Dane has a heart of gold and this book takes us on the journey with him as he discovers his own worth. I appreciated that Chris’s very real struggles and scars were not downplayed just because he had the good fortune of having a family and money growing up. I also liked that the story didn’t make the very apparent differences between them into the focus of the story; instead, in a very unusual and refreshing way, the story simply embraces them as a couple made of two seeming opposites, without dwelling on the opposites attract trope.
Definitely read this; despite some of the heavy issues, the book is not dark; it’s actually very sweet, often steamy and overall uplifting.
This book presented such an authentic, complex portrayal of a couple struggling with significant issues borne of childhood trauma that have left lasting scars on both of them, although in different ways. Dane has more “baggage” and the greater struggle, although Chris has his own ingrained abandonment fears which certainly contribute to some of the spiraling in Dane and Chris’ relationship. The description of Dane’s struggles was so real and so well-written, it is felt deeply and you completely understand, and even anticipate his reactions. Dane has a heart of gold and this book takes us on the journey with him as he discovers his own worth. I appreciated that Chris’s very real struggles and scars were not downplayed just because he had the good fortune of having a family and money growing up. I also liked that the story didn’t make the very apparent differences between them into the focus of the story; instead, in a very unusual and refreshing way, the story simply embraces them as a couple made of two seeming opposites, without dwelling on the opposites attract trope.
Definitely read this; despite some of the heavy issues, the book is not dark; it’s actually very sweet, often steamy and overall uplifting.
April 12, 2021
Christian sintio que comenzaba a tener con Dane una relacion, hasta que un dia el solo se fue y termino las cosas con el. Despues de meses separados, Dane lo llama porque su medio-hermano se metio en problemas y puede ir a la carcel. Gracias a eso, su relacion parece que puede reiniciarse, pero el tiene grandes problemas con el abandono y la traicion y no se deja convencer tan facil.
Dane se comenzo a sentir atrapado en la relacion con Christian, y todos los problemas financieros que tiene actualmente con la enfermedad de su madre, y salio huyendo. Y si a eso le agregamos que el unico otro ingreso que puede tener esta condicionado a un productor de Tv que lo acosa para mantenerlos al aire, su vida es bastante dificil. Pero como siempre puede haber mas problemas, se encuentra con que el hermano de Christian intenta robar la tienda, y tiene que llamarlo de nuevo.
La relacion entre los dos tiene graves problemas de auto-confianza y abandono, Christian no se entrega por miedo a que lo abandonen de nuevo y Dean no se entrega porque se siente atrapado por la cantidad de problemas que tiene. Ambos deberan llegar a confiar en el otro y abrirse a la relacion.
El libro lo senti bastante basico, los te-quiero-no-te-quiero, fueron como demasiado exagerados, igual que eso de te perdono esta y no te perdono mas. Esperaba mucho mas humor de Dane, ya que es el "payaso" de Get Ink'd, esperaba muchos mas dialogos sarcasticos, de Channing, de Reagan, inclusive de Trinity o Mateo, pero no, un poquito aqui y otro alla.
Para mi fue demasiado drama sin sentido, con poca profundidad. Habia mucho mas de donde sacarle a la relacion Christian-Channing o Dane y su madre. Pero bueno, como historia cumplio su cometido de ser entretenida.
Ahora, el proximo libro es de Channing-Reagan, asi que estoy esperando un drama fuerte con la diferencia de edad, espero que sea mas interesante que este.
Dane se comenzo a sentir atrapado en la relacion con Christian, y todos los problemas financieros que tiene actualmente con la enfermedad de su madre, y salio huyendo. Y si a eso le agregamos que el unico otro ingreso que puede tener esta condicionado a un productor de Tv que lo acosa para mantenerlos al aire, su vida es bastante dificil. Pero como siempre puede haber mas problemas, se encuentra con que el hermano de Christian intenta robar la tienda, y tiene que llamarlo de nuevo.
La relacion entre los dos tiene graves problemas de auto-confianza y abandono, Christian no se entrega por miedo a que lo abandonen de nuevo y Dean no se entrega porque se siente atrapado por la cantidad de problemas que tiene. Ambos deberan llegar a confiar en el otro y abrirse a la relacion.
El libro lo senti bastante basico, los te-quiero-no-te-quiero, fueron como demasiado exagerados, igual que eso de te perdono esta y no te perdono mas. Esperaba mucho mas humor de Dane, ya que es el "payaso" de Get Ink'd, esperaba muchos mas dialogos sarcasticos, de Channing, de Reagan, inclusive de Trinity o Mateo, pero no, un poquito aqui y otro alla.
Para mi fue demasiado drama sin sentido, con poca profundidad. Habia mucho mas de donde sacarle a la relacion Christian-Channing o Dane y su madre. Pero bueno, como historia cumplio su cometido de ser entretenida.
Ahora, el proximo libro es de Channing-Reagan, asi que estoy esperando un drama fuerte con la diferencia de edad, espero que sea mas interesante que este.
June 10, 2020
Christian and Dane did not disappoint. Both men possess such a powerful connection, especially given the Dane does not present himself as overwhelmingly outgoing, and Christian doesn't exactly have a tom of potentials knocking down his door. Witnessing repeated heartbreaks of a person close to you can have that effect.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dane was in a precarious position of having to care for his very sick mother, and he worked for the ultimate predator producer. Guess who walked in at the precise moment to witness the one-sided "business transaction" between Dane and Jason? UGH!
The pain, shock, and horror Christian's face...how could he fix this? Looks like his heart wants more than he's willing to admit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Despite the past, Christian is ready to take that leap of faith with Dane, but Dane doesn't initially share the same sentiment. Its obvious there are some issues for both men and the hurdles must be overcome for any future to develop among them. You root for them, feel their pain, secretly yell for them to work it out. Let's just say, communication probably could have saved these two some of these obstacles faced.
Save for Channing, Christian's younger brother. Sometimes a different perspective can make a difference.
Well developed characters created the atmosphere of literally being a part of their story and not the from the sidelines of the pages.
This is my absolute first book I've read as a solo work, written by Lyda. Others read were co-authored books and am equally as pleased. Definitely looking forward to more of her as an individual and a team.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2020
Dane and Chris' story is the second book in the Get Ink'd series, though we met both characters in book one as Dane works at the tattoo studio and Chris is Gordo's (one of the MCs) best friend. Messy Ink can stand alone, but I think readers will get more enjoyment if they have read Daddy Ink first.
Chris and Dane's relationship is a bit topsy turvy. It very much starts with hooking up but then falls apart as both men have significant traumas or experiences in their past that they have to deal with individually first before they can hand over their heart to another person. As character building goes, this gives a lot of scope for for growth and I think Dane definitely achieves this. He does keep up his joker persona even at the end, though, despite it initially being a front to hide his hurt from the world. Chris' self-reflection is equally important as he has to stop a cycle of emotionally destructive behaviour. The challenges that the two men face makes the romance all the sweeter, though the length of the journey and the speed of the HEA landing is perhaps a little unbalanced.
Dane's co-workers at the tattoo studio and the introduction of Chris' brother, Channing, give us a great cast of side characters. In fact the relationships between the MCs and their brothers, biological or otherwise, are very well written.
Overall, I really enjoyed the the story. I listened to the audiobook, however, and didn't quite gel with the narration style. It wasn't bad, exactly, it just felt a bit off-centre and flat to me, so I would score as follows:
Book - 4*
Narration - 2.5*
An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Chris and Dane's relationship is a bit topsy turvy. It very much starts with hooking up but then falls apart as both men have significant traumas or experiences in their past that they have to deal with individually first before they can hand over their heart to another person. As character building goes, this gives a lot of scope for for growth and I think Dane definitely achieves this. He does keep up his joker persona even at the end, though, despite it initially being a front to hide his hurt from the world. Chris' self-reflection is equally important as he has to stop a cycle of emotionally destructive behaviour. The challenges that the two men face makes the romance all the sweeter, though the length of the journey and the speed of the HEA landing is perhaps a little unbalanced.
Dane's co-workers at the tattoo studio and the introduction of Chris' brother, Channing, give us a great cast of side characters. In fact the relationships between the MCs and their brothers, biological or otherwise, are very well written.
Overall, I really enjoyed the the story. I listened to the audiobook, however, and didn't quite gel with the narration style. It wasn't bad, exactly, it just felt a bit off-centre and flat to me, so I would score as follows:
Book - 4*
Narration - 2.5*
An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2020
A very up down relationship between Chris and Dane as Dane is adamant that he doesn't deserve love or happiness after things that he did when he was younger and so in order to keep from any attachments, he determines to keep things emotionally free..... or at least that was the plan.
Chris and Dane may be from very different worlds, Chris is one of the top surgeons in the state and Dane was in a gang but has reformed into a tattoo artist, but their connection runs deep. Both men have issues from their past but Dane has so much he has to work through if there is any hope of a future for the two men. Along with his past there are several pressures in his current life including his mum's poor health and unwanted advances in the workplace. Chris is his bright spot that he wants to work towards.
Chris knows his emotions get involved far too soon when it comes to Dane but he couldn't help himself and ends up hurting, constantly on edge and waiting for the other shoe to drop. He then has the added stressor of his younger brother showing up in less than ideal circumstances but wanting to do everything he can to help the boy going forward.
I love the Get Ink'd crew. They are so supportive of each other and treat each other very much like a family. There are big hints about who the next book will be about and I am definitely looking forward to that!
A great addition to this really enjoyable series. I love getting to know the characters more and knowing how they come to be who they are. Sometimes they definitely don't help themselves but I'm a huge fan of a redemption story line.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Chris and Dane may be from very different worlds, Chris is one of the top surgeons in the state and Dane was in a gang but has reformed into a tattoo artist, but their connection runs deep. Both men have issues from their past but Dane has so much he has to work through if there is any hope of a future for the two men. Along with his past there are several pressures in his current life including his mum's poor health and unwanted advances in the workplace. Chris is his bright spot that he wants to work towards.
Chris knows his emotions get involved far too soon when it comes to Dane but he couldn't help himself and ends up hurting, constantly on edge and waiting for the other shoe to drop. He then has the added stressor of his younger brother showing up in less than ideal circumstances but wanting to do everything he can to help the boy going forward.
I love the Get Ink'd crew. They are so supportive of each other and treat each other very much like a family. There are big hints about who the next book will be about and I am definitely looking forward to that!
A great addition to this really enjoyable series. I love getting to know the characters more and knowing how they come to be who they are. Sometimes they definitely don't help themselves but I'm a huge fan of a redemption story line.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 10, 2020
This is Dane and Christians story. Dane works at the tattoo shop Get Ink'ed with Javi and is his best friend.The TV show that is being filmed at the shop features all the tattoo artists. Christian is Gordos best friend and spends time at the shop hanging around with the guys. Dane and Christian become more then just friends but when Christian tries to find out more about Dane, Dane freaks out and ends things. Dane is in the shop late one night when he hears a window break and goes to investigate. Dane catches one of the kids trying to rob the shop, instead of calling the cops he calls Christian. Christian comes to the shop to find his half brother Channing. Christian agrees to let Channing stay with him and work at the shop to pay for the damage done. Christian is still hurt because he is in love with Dane but he is willing to put his feelings aside to help his brother out. Dane is having problems with having enough money to pay for his mothers care and the producer of the TV show is hounding Dane until Dane has a panic attack and passes out, Christian comes running to help. When Dane wakes up and talks to Christian, he understands that he was pushing Christian away because he did not know how to change. Dane is in love with Christian but afraid to admit it. Dane needed some time to figure out? Will Dane find his way back and be able to have a relationship with Christian? Is it to late for Christian? Can Christian find the commitment he needs?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2020
Messy Ink is the second book in the Get Ink’d series. It can be read as a standalone, but characters from book one are featured in the second book.
Dane is a tattoo artist with a sordid past. He’s cleaned himself up, but the emotional scars and trauma from his time on the streets still haunts him. Chris is a doctor, but even with all his medical training, there are still some wounds from his past he can’t heal. What was supposed to be a one night fling between these two men turns into something so much more. But, both men will have to learn to be vulnerable with each other and open up about their painful pasts.
Messy Ink was an enjoyable book that had a lot of action packed into its plot. However, Ali Lyda does a great job of keeping the plot pacing at a steady pace that compliments the character growth and story arc. I really liked how positive and accurately Ali Lyda portrayed therapy. The characters going through therapy weren’t instantly cured, and it was refreshing to see how much work and effort has to go into therapy for it to be successful. The sex scenes were hot, but I really enjoyed the tenderness that Dane and Chris showed each other as their relationship bloomed.
Connor Brown narrates the audiobook and does a great job of it. He keeps all the character voices distinct and consistent which makes it really easy to follow the story line. I liked the energy Connor used throughout the narration and I was engrossed into the story. The audiobook production was well done with no glitches or errors.
Dane is a tattoo artist with a sordid past. He’s cleaned himself up, but the emotional scars and trauma from his time on the streets still haunts him. Chris is a doctor, but even with all his medical training, there are still some wounds from his past he can’t heal. What was supposed to be a one night fling between these two men turns into something so much more. But, both men will have to learn to be vulnerable with each other and open up about their painful pasts.
Messy Ink was an enjoyable book that had a lot of action packed into its plot. However, Ali Lyda does a great job of keeping the plot pacing at a steady pace that compliments the character growth and story arc. I really liked how positive and accurately Ali Lyda portrayed therapy. The characters going through therapy weren’t instantly cured, and it was refreshing to see how much work and effort has to go into therapy for it to be successful. The sex scenes were hot, but I really enjoyed the tenderness that Dane and Chris showed each other as their relationship bloomed.
Connor Brown narrates the audiobook and does a great job of it. He keeps all the character voices distinct and consistent which makes it really easy to follow the story line. I liked the energy Connor used throughout the narration and I was engrossed into the story. The audiobook production was well done with no glitches or errors.
July 5, 2020
I liked it. In book one of the series we are witness to a scene that announced LOTS of drama for Christian and Dane, and, well... yes, lots of drama *laughs*
One of the things I liked the most was the way in which both characters were aware of their issues and shortcomings, and how that self-awareness didn't help them when one of them fucked-up. Because between knowing and feeling are miles and miles of distance. Even when you know the other one is acting up as a reaction to stuff in their past, that won't make it hurt less nor will make it easier to forgive.
That said... I'm not sure I could have been able to forgive Dane. If I'm telling you that I have issues, and there is this particular thing I can't abide, and you still go and do it... and in a particularly cruel way I must add, I might understand why you did it, but forgive you? I don't know...
I liked how the Jason's situation highlighted that Dane isn't as strong and self-sufficient as he would like to think, and the way in which Channing plays in the story, as a bridge between the MCs, although I'm not sure about him and Reagan...
But yes, I liked the story, and I like the characters, all of them.
One of the things I liked the most was the way in which both characters were aware of their issues and shortcomings, and how that self-awareness didn't help them when one of them fucked-up. Because between knowing and feeling are miles and miles of distance. Even when you know the other one is acting up as a reaction to stuff in their past, that won't make it hurt less nor will make it easier to forgive.
That said... I'm not sure I could have been able to forgive Dane. If I'm telling you that I have issues, and there is this particular thing I can't abide, and you still go and do it... and in a particularly cruel way I must add, I might understand why you did it, but forgive you? I don't know...
I liked how the Jason's situation highlighted that Dane isn't as strong and self-sufficient as he would like to think, and the way in which Channing plays in the story, as a bridge between the MCs, although I'm not sure about him and Reagan...
But yes, I liked the story, and I like the characters, all of them.
August 14, 2020
Emotional twists and turns times two. Both Dane and Chris carry heavy burdens from lives of abandonment. Dane at first found solace in joining a street gang that he believed he could turn into a family. But his guilt for what he had to do to be accepted in the gang hung heavy on his conscience. He felt he had too much to atone for to be worthy of a true and lasting relationship with anyone; let alone Christian who he cared deeply for. While Chris had emotional baggage from a father who only showed up when he felt like it and then disappeared. Both were looking for acceptance, commitment, and unconditional love. Chris's biggest undertaking in his life came when he had to save his 18YOA brother from legal troubles by having Channing move in with him. The Get Ink'd crowd proved a live saver for Chris but facing Dane was so hard. Dane and Chris broke up at the beginning of this 2nd story in this series because Dane was afraid of the liability of remaining true to Chris when he wasn't even able to be true to himself. Relationship stress leads to so many emotional hang-ups that a successful HEA is far in the horizon for the reader. The undercurrent of Channing's crush on Reagan shows a promising hint of the next book in this series. I read this ARC for the honest review I'm giving.
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