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Kill Devil Ink #2
Marked
LOU
The door. All we have is the door. I can’t go outside. I can’t leave my house. It’s impossible, meaning a real relationship is impossible. But Finn… this sexy tattoo artist, a guy who shouldn’t be interested in me, he talks to me through the door. He treats me like I’m not crazy. He keeps coming back. Maybe he’s the crazy one.
FINN
I’m bored. All my relationships are the same. I can’t break the monotony. I can’t leave this rut. Until I meet Lou. A girl with even more issues than myself. She wants me to be her teacher. To play pretend. To have a ‘practice’ relationship. I agree. But honestly, I keep coming back because with her... I’m not bored.
*MARKED is a standalone with a HEA. It can be read as a standalone or as the second book in Sarah Darlington's KILL DEVIL INK Series. Look for other books in the series.
KILL DEVIL INK READING ORDER
1. Inked
2. Marked
3. Faked (coming Dec. 2021)
The door. All we have is the door. I can’t go outside. I can’t leave my house. It’s impossible, meaning a real relationship is impossible. But Finn… this sexy tattoo artist, a guy who shouldn’t be interested in me, he talks to me through the door. He treats me like I’m not crazy. He keeps coming back. Maybe he’s the crazy one.
FINN
I’m bored. All my relationships are the same. I can’t break the monotony. I can’t leave this rut. Until I meet Lou. A girl with even more issues than myself. She wants me to be her teacher. To play pretend. To have a ‘practice’ relationship. I agree. But honestly, I keep coming back because with her... I’m not bored.
*MARKED is a standalone with a HEA. It can be read as a standalone or as the second book in Sarah Darlington's KILL DEVIL INK Series. Look for other books in the series.
KILL DEVIL INK READING ORDER
1. Inked
2. Marked
3. Faked (coming Dec. 2021)
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2021
6 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Darlington
23 books591 followersHi! I'm Sarah Darlington. I write contemporary romance books that are steamy, sexy, and sweet. I love creating book boyfriends you won’t soon forget, and the heroines who give them hell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 3, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntarily, honest review of it.
If you have read ‘Inked’ than you have already met Lou and Finn because both are secondary characters in that story. Lou is Nick’s best friend and Finn is Amanda’s colleague and friend. In the background of that story we could see that something was growing between these two secondary character and now in ‘Marked’ we get to read their love story. If you are new to this writer or if you haven’t read ‘Inked’ yet, it is possible to read this book as a standalone if you really want to but I also think that you will enjoy this book more if you read ‘Inked’ first. Especially because ‘Marked’ has the same timeline as ‘Inked’ so in both books you have two stories but the focus in each book is on a different couple. I found that very interesting.
‘Marked’ is a new adult story that tells the story about Lou, a young female that has agoraphobia. A disorder that she developed as a young child. It had a big impact on her childhood and it still has a big influence on her life now.
Lou’s mother left her as a child in a small town library. Lou found a home in that library and a friend in Nick. It may sound like a strange upbringing to most but Lou was very happy there, surrounded by many, many books. But when renovations forced her to leave her home for the first time since she arrived there, she decides to travel with Nick to North Carolina. Here, she meets Finn, a tattoo artist. One glance is enough for both of them to be fascinated with each other. Both broken in their own way. Lou’s agoraphobia makes it hard for Finn to really get to know her, but he still finds ways to talk to her and when Lou asks him to teach her how to have a physical relationship with a guy, Finn can’t wait to show her. Slowly feelings are growing between them but Finn’s past as a player and Lou’s disorder make them both insecure and wondering if they really can be together. Is their love strong to conquer all the problems?
I really liked Lou and Finn together. The writer Sarah Darlington really knows how to write characters who aren’t perfect, who struggle with mental problems but are also strong in their own way. Just like her other stories, this story wasn’t dark. There was a good balance in the story between lightness, sweetness, emotional moments and steamy sex scenes.
Lou and Finn were broken in their own way but that made them perfect for each other. They found the love, understanding and acceptance that they wouldn’t find with someone else. The story was told in both POV’s so that gave the reader more insight into their thoughts, self-doubts and emotions.
Lou was a very likable character. She was intelligent, mysterious and very observant. Lou may have lived a ‘sheltered’ life but she had a realistic, very down to earth view on people and the world around her. She had a gift for understanding people and their problems. A talent that she developed over the years by observing people from a distance. Despite her disorder she found a way to work, by writing books.
(Lou’s past stayed a mystery in the end but just like Finn, I had no problem with that. In some situations, the ‘now’ and the future are more important than the past and in this story, that was the case.)
Finn was also creative but in other ways, by creating art, tattooing and by drawing his own graphic novel. Finn was a big player, he got quickly bored of women. But one look at Lou and Finn felt something he had never felt before. A very strong connection and fascination with a woman. Finn was a good friend and a good guy. He was confident, independent, patient with Lou and encouraging. Both Lou and Finn were honest and I liked that.
One of the things that I really appreciated about this story is that in the end, Lou’s problems weren’t ‘magical’ cured. The end was realistic but still hopeful.
‘Marked’ is a good story and I’m already curious to read Patrick’s story that will be next.
If you have read ‘Inked’ than you have already met Lou and Finn because both are secondary characters in that story. Lou is Nick’s best friend and Finn is Amanda’s colleague and friend. In the background of that story we could see that something was growing between these two secondary character and now in ‘Marked’ we get to read their love story. If you are new to this writer or if you haven’t read ‘Inked’ yet, it is possible to read this book as a standalone if you really want to but I also think that you will enjoy this book more if you read ‘Inked’ first. Especially because ‘Marked’ has the same timeline as ‘Inked’ so in both books you have two stories but the focus in each book is on a different couple. I found that very interesting.
‘Marked’ is a new adult story that tells the story about Lou, a young female that has agoraphobia. A disorder that she developed as a young child. It had a big impact on her childhood and it still has a big influence on her life now.
Lou’s mother left her as a child in a small town library. Lou found a home in that library and a friend in Nick. It may sound like a strange upbringing to most but Lou was very happy there, surrounded by many, many books. But when renovations forced her to leave her home for the first time since she arrived there, she decides to travel with Nick to North Carolina. Here, she meets Finn, a tattoo artist. One glance is enough for both of them to be fascinated with each other. Both broken in their own way. Lou’s agoraphobia makes it hard for Finn to really get to know her, but he still finds ways to talk to her and when Lou asks him to teach her how to have a physical relationship with a guy, Finn can’t wait to show her. Slowly feelings are growing between them but Finn’s past as a player and Lou’s disorder make them both insecure and wondering if they really can be together. Is their love strong to conquer all the problems?
I really liked Lou and Finn together. The writer Sarah Darlington really knows how to write characters who aren’t perfect, who struggle with mental problems but are also strong in their own way. Just like her other stories, this story wasn’t dark. There was a good balance in the story between lightness, sweetness, emotional moments and steamy sex scenes.
Lou and Finn were broken in their own way but that made them perfect for each other. They found the love, understanding and acceptance that they wouldn’t find with someone else. The story was told in both POV’s so that gave the reader more insight into their thoughts, self-doubts and emotions.
Lou was a very likable character. She was intelligent, mysterious and very observant. Lou may have lived a ‘sheltered’ life but she had a realistic, very down to earth view on people and the world around her. She had a gift for understanding people and their problems. A talent that she developed over the years by observing people from a distance. Despite her disorder she found a way to work, by writing books.
(Lou’s past stayed a mystery in the end but just like Finn, I had no problem with that. In some situations, the ‘now’ and the future are more important than the past and in this story, that was the case.)
Finn was also creative but in other ways, by creating art, tattooing and by drawing his own graphic novel. Finn was a big player, he got quickly bored of women. But one look at Lou and Finn felt something he had never felt before. A very strong connection and fascination with a woman. Finn was a good friend and a good guy. He was confident, independent, patient with Lou and encouraging. Both Lou and Finn were honest and I liked that.
One of the things that I really appreciated about this story is that in the end, Lou’s problems weren’t ‘magical’ cured. The end was realistic but still hopeful.
‘Marked’ is a good story and I’m already curious to read Patrick’s story that will be next.
October 6, 2021
Great to be back in the Kill Devil Ink world again.
Lou has had a pretty horrendous upbringing, she has basically had to fend for herself and in doing so has developed a serious condition of fear and panic. Her only safety being her library and best friend Nick.
Finn isn’t the most confident of people despite what his appearance may say. He has a presence but inside he would love nothing more than to stay home and do his art. But he forces himself to have balance.
These two are an unlikely paring on the surface but deep down they can understand each other perfectly.
I enjoyed this…. It was interesting to read about Lou’s condition but I think I would have liked more about the anxiety and debilitating feelings that it brings with it.
I loved Finn, I’m so pleased he found someone to stay for, his vulnerabilities made him even more loveable!
Great to read a story with imperfectly perfect characters with a sensible ending!!
Lou has had a pretty horrendous upbringing, she has basically had to fend for herself and in doing so has developed a serious condition of fear and panic. Her only safety being her library and best friend Nick.
Finn isn’t the most confident of people despite what his appearance may say. He has a presence but inside he would love nothing more than to stay home and do his art. But he forces himself to have balance.
These two are an unlikely paring on the surface but deep down they can understand each other perfectly.
I enjoyed this…. It was interesting to read about Lou’s condition but I think I would have liked more about the anxiety and debilitating feelings that it brings with it.
I loved Finn, I’m so pleased he found someone to stay for, his vulnerabilities made him even more loveable!
Great to read a story with imperfectly perfect characters with a sensible ending!!
October 3, 2021
3.5 Stars
If you haven’t read Inked, I would read that first. The story will make more sense.
I love that this author isn’t afraid to tackle hard subjects. In this book, it’s mental health. Our heroine has agoraphobia. I had a soft spot for Lou going in. I’m glad we finally got her backstory. And by the end, she’s not suddenly “cured”. The author was realistic with her disorder.
While I liked the Finn. I wasn’t crazy about him being a womanizer. He basically has a different woman every week. He’s not a bad guy per se. He just hasn’t met the one that makes him want to settle down. The typical cliche in today’s romance books. This is what knocked a half star off for me.
I felt the connection between the MC’s and I liked that the hero went slow with Lou and didn’t push her past her limits. What starts out as a 2 week arrangement of them practice-dating …
”So, confession time. I’ve never dated anyone before. Or had a boyfriend before. Or kissed a guy before. Or held a guy’s hand before. Or anything before.”
I laughed, although it was more sad than funny.
“I mean, crazy right? I’m twenty-three and I’ve never experienced anything. I am crazy though. So, I thought this could be practice. You could be my practice. And then at the end of the two week thing, we end as friends. Cool?”
…turns into more.
”Fuck a timetable. I was here for forever now. Forever—if she’d let me.”
If you haven’t read Inked, I would read that first. The story will make more sense.
I love that this author isn’t afraid to tackle hard subjects. In this book, it’s mental health. Our heroine has agoraphobia. I had a soft spot for Lou going in. I’m glad we finally got her backstory. And by the end, she’s not suddenly “cured”. The author was realistic with her disorder.
While I liked the Finn. I wasn’t crazy about him being a womanizer. He basically has a different woman every week. He’s not a bad guy per se. He just hasn’t met the one that makes him want to settle down. The typical cliche in today’s romance books. This is what knocked a half star off for me.
I felt the connection between the MC’s and I liked that the hero went slow with Lou and didn’t push her past her limits. What starts out as a 2 week arrangement of them practice-dating …
”So, confession time. I’ve never dated anyone before. Or had a boyfriend before. Or kissed a guy before. Or held a guy’s hand before. Or anything before.”
I laughed, although it was more sad than funny.
“I mean, crazy right? I’m twenty-three and I’ve never experienced anything. I am crazy though. So, I thought this could be practice. You could be my practice. And then at the end of the two week thing, we end as friends. Cool?”
…turns into more.
”Fuck a timetable. I was here for forever now. Forever—if she’d let me.”
October 14, 2021
I definitely liked this one better than Inked, Amanda and Nick's story. I liked how Sarah wrote about the mental health issues in the characters seamlessly. And I loved Finn. I loved him for Lou. He's just perfect. Overall, I really enjoyed the book.
October 16, 2021
I always enjoy reading Sarah Darlington's stories. This one was fun and emotional at the same time. I loved the connection and the chemistry between Lou and Finn. Also, I liked the fact that the book has mental illness representation.
October 14, 2021
MARKED is the second instalment in Sarah Darlington’s contemporary, adult KILL DEVIL INK erotic, romance series. This is twenty-eight year old tattoo artist Finn Parker, and twenty-three year old, writer / indie author Lou Lawrence’s story line. MARKED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: Some of the events of MARKED cross over with, and run parallel to the events of book one INKED.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Finn and Lou) MARKED follows the unconventional relationship between twenty-eight year old tattoo artist Finn Parker, and twenty-three year old indie author Lou Lawrence. Lou Lawrence suffers with agoraphobia-a complex and debilitating anxiety disorder wherein our heroine struggles to leave the house, and an overall feeling of helplessness and panic. A quick visit for Lou to Devil Hill Ink with her best friend Nick, finds tattoo artist Finn Parker pulled into the the aura that is our story line heroine but Lou’s adventure into the world outside is short lived, and Finn is forced to take his time in an effort to prove he is worthy of Lou’s friendship. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Finn and Lou, and the potential fall-out as Lou continues to struggle in the face of her love for our story line hero.
The relationship between Finn and Lou is unique and atypical as Finn must ‘learn’ to step carefully in his attempts to ‘woo’ our story line heroine. Lou battles with herself every moment of the day, and in this, Finn must be patient with Lou’s inability to move beyond the past that has control of her life.Finn offers Lou two weeks to ‘get to know’ one another, and in the end, Lou’s anxiety may be the catalyst that pushes Finn out of her life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Lou’s best friend and roommate Nick, and Finn’s co-worker Amanda (Inked #1), as well as the new receptionist Patrick, and Nick’s mother Mrs. Jasmine.
MARKED is a story of mental disorders, struggles, acceptance and love. The premise is thought-provoking and engaging; the romance is seductive; the characters are animated and determined but struggling in their lives.
www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: Some of the events of MARKED cross over with, and run parallel to the events of book one INKED.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Finn and Lou) MARKED follows the unconventional relationship between twenty-eight year old tattoo artist Finn Parker, and twenty-three year old indie author Lou Lawrence. Lou Lawrence suffers with agoraphobia-a complex and debilitating anxiety disorder wherein our heroine struggles to leave the house, and an overall feeling of helplessness and panic. A quick visit for Lou to Devil Hill Ink with her best friend Nick, finds tattoo artist Finn Parker pulled into the the aura that is our story line heroine but Lou’s adventure into the world outside is short lived, and Finn is forced to take his time in an effort to prove he is worthy of Lou’s friendship. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Finn and Lou, and the potential fall-out as Lou continues to struggle in the face of her love for our story line hero.
The relationship between Finn and Lou is unique and atypical as Finn must ‘learn’ to step carefully in his attempts to ‘woo’ our story line heroine. Lou battles with herself every moment of the day, and in this, Finn must be patient with Lou’s inability to move beyond the past that has control of her life.Finn offers Lou two weeks to ‘get to know’ one another, and in the end, Lou’s anxiety may be the catalyst that pushes Finn out of her life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Lou’s best friend and roommate Nick, and Finn’s co-worker Amanda (Inked #1), as well as the new receptionist Patrick, and Nick’s mother Mrs. Jasmine.
MARKED is a story of mental disorders, struggles, acceptance and love. The premise is thought-provoking and engaging; the romance is seductive; the characters are animated and determined but struggling in their lives.
www.thereadingcafe.com
October 10, 2021
Marked (Kill Devil Ink #2) by Sarah Darlington is Finn's story. As a member of Kill Devil Ink we met him in Inked. We also met Lou as well, so if you haven't read it please do. It is a good story and gives a lot of information on her back story. Lou is very shy and has anxiety being out in the world. When she came into Kill Devil Ink she catches the eye of Finn. Finn gets bored with women in about2 weeks. He is not relationship material. He is a hit it and quit it type of guy. To his defense he is honest and knows his MO. But there is something about Lou that speaks to him. He is determined to be apart of her life and will do whatever he has to to spend time with her. That is exactly what Finn does, he goes above and beyond to spend time with her. This was a cute story of him going to any lengths and Lou trying to step out her comfort zone. She knows she has issues but Finn makes her want to want more. We are also treated to Nick and Amanda who are the main characters of Inked. A matter of fact Marked starts out as an overlap of Inked. It was nice going back to Kill Devil. This author has written several books about this town. If you get a chance start at the beginning with the Kill Devil Hills series than Rockstar in Kill Devil Hill series, you will not be disappointed. Looking forward to the next book in this series. A 4 star read for me.
October 31, 2021
Marked was an emotional story about a girl named Lou who has been through an emotional trauma at a young age causing her agoraphobia. Her life is spent behind a closed door, shutting her from the world outside. She is smart, witty, mysterious and observant.
Fin is a sexy tattoo artist at the famous Kill Devil Ink, who's afraid of commitment. His life if full of parties and meaningless hookups. Meeting Lou on one of her rare outings leaves him intrigued with the reclusive beauty.
Sarah Darlington does a great job with writing a story full of heart. She brings us to the forefront of mental illness and the people that live it on a daily bases.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of Marked. All thoughts are my own.
Fin is a sexy tattoo artist at the famous Kill Devil Ink, who's afraid of commitment. His life if full of parties and meaningless hookups. Meeting Lou on one of her rare outings leaves him intrigued with the reclusive beauty.
Sarah Darlington does a great job with writing a story full of heart. She brings us to the forefront of mental illness and the people that live it on a daily bases.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of Marked. All thoughts are my own.
October 7, 2021
Okay so I absolutely loved Finn and Lou! Finn is way more then the player you think he is. He feels so deeply and he fell hard for our girl Lou! Lou hasn’t had the best life growing up but this amazing woman is strong and smart and a survivor. The chemistry these two have is instant fire! I could not put this book down because with the deal these to stick with one another I had to know what was going to happen. You can see the feelings grow and the relationship grown everyday. These two were completely meant for one another. I was completely captivated and could not put it down. Definitely a must read!!
October 9, 2021
Marked was a story l could not put down! So happy to be back in Kill Devil Ink world! I loved Finn and Lou together l felt for Lou and her condition and that Finn was there every step of the way! Their journey was beautiful, sweet, & sexy with heart! Cannot wait for Patrick's story Faked!
October 14, 2021
Lou has been on her own for most of her life. She has a panic disorder and only hangs out with her friend Nick. Finn is a tattoo artist that has charisma but he likes being alone working on his art. The two seem an unlikely pair, but they fit together perfectly. A good read.
October 12, 2021
4.5 Stars
I don't know how Sarah Darlington does it, but she takes real issues and makes them beautiful stories! I was intrigued by Lou and Finn's friendship since finishing Inked, so I was eager to jump into this one. I loved Finn's creativity and his tenacity when it came what he wanted. Watching Lou evolve was fascinating and left you with a feeling of hope. I enjoyed being able to see Nick and Amanda in this one, seeing another side of their story.
I don't know how Sarah Darlington does it, but she takes real issues and makes them beautiful stories! I was intrigued by Lou and Finn's friendship since finishing Inked, so I was eager to jump into this one. I loved Finn's creativity and his tenacity when it came what he wanted. Watching Lou evolve was fascinating and left you with a feeling of hope. I enjoyed being able to see Nick and Amanda in this one, seeing another side of their story.
October 14, 2021
I could not put this book down!! I need way more than 5 stars to rate it.
If you read Inked, you met Finn and although you knew he was a player, you would have gotten a feeling that there was definitely way more beneath the surface. And boy is there.
I had to keep turning the pages to see what Finn and Lou would do each day, each meeting, that would not only help her with her agoraphobia, but also cement each other together in their lives. It was a Angsty and sexy as sin!
I also need to add that Sarah Darlington is a Master at interweaving stories with not only timeline, but also dialogue. I have no clue how she keeps it all straight, but it makes her a genius in my book and a must read author.
This is a must read and in my top 10 for 2021.
If you read Inked, you met Finn and although you knew he was a player, you would have gotten a feeling that there was definitely way more beneath the surface. And boy is there.
I had to keep turning the pages to see what Finn and Lou would do each day, each meeting, that would not only help her with her agoraphobia, but also cement each other together in their lives. It was a Angsty and sexy as sin!
I also need to add that Sarah Darlington is a Master at interweaving stories with not only timeline, but also dialogue. I have no clue how she keeps it all straight, but it makes her a genius in my book and a must read author.
This is a must read and in my top 10 for 2021.
October 3, 2021
Special, sincere and sweet, Marked is somewhat of a magical read.
I've always had a soft spot for Lou, and I've been waiting for her and Finn's story with bated breath and Sarah didn't disappoint. With beautifully intricate characters and a unique connection, Sarah weaves a heartwarming and different story with a captivating, magic feel. There is so much beneath the surface with this characters and watching their relationship growing and changing with each talk and each meeting was mesmerizing.
5 stars and a silver lining.
I've always had a soft spot for Lou, and I've been waiting for her and Finn's story with bated breath and Sarah didn't disappoint. With beautifully intricate characters and a unique connection, Sarah weaves a heartwarming and different story with a captivating, magic feel. There is so much beneath the surface with this characters and watching their relationship growing and changing with each talk and each meeting was mesmerizing.
5 stars and a silver lining.
October 13, 2021
Finn you are an absolutely amazing human, perfect book boyfriend, and the sweetest alpha man to make me swoon!!
Ok now that I got that off my chest let me say I loved being back with the Kill Devil’s Hill gang and seeing Lou’s story from this side because in Nick’s story we saw glimpses and knew hers would be emotional as well. Nick and Lou have a special bond because they both suffer greatly with their mental states at times. When the book starts we get to see from Lou’s point of view what is happening with Nick and Amanda while she contemplates her own life. Lou wants to be some what normal but she suffers from agoraphobia and there are some things she just can’t handle. When she realizes her best friend Nick is trying hard to handle his panic attacks she realizes she wants to handle herself and the one person she felt something instantly with Finn. Finn is this handsome tattoo artist who also finds himself becoming easily bored with his life and also searching for something yet he never knows really what that is until he sees Lou. Their attraction is instant yet Lou just can’t seem to make herself go out of her comfort zone and Finn realizes this and he does everything in his power to help her. He does everything at her pace, learns about her when she is willing to give it, and he is just so gentle with her. Lou knows she is attracted to Finn, she wants to be with him but its not possible with her condition so she does a lot to keep him at arms length or push him away. Finn and Lou’s story was beautiful, emotional, and handled with such great care. I loved how much Nick was protective of her, how much Finn wanted to give the world to her only at her pace, and it was just perfection. I love these characters and their emotions because they are so realistic the author handles it all perfectly.
Ok now that I got that off my chest let me say I loved being back with the Kill Devil’s Hill gang and seeing Lou’s story from this side because in Nick’s story we saw glimpses and knew hers would be emotional as well. Nick and Lou have a special bond because they both suffer greatly with their mental states at times. When the book starts we get to see from Lou’s point of view what is happening with Nick and Amanda while she contemplates her own life. Lou wants to be some what normal but she suffers from agoraphobia and there are some things she just can’t handle. When she realizes her best friend Nick is trying hard to handle his panic attacks she realizes she wants to handle herself and the one person she felt something instantly with Finn. Finn is this handsome tattoo artist who also finds himself becoming easily bored with his life and also searching for something yet he never knows really what that is until he sees Lou. Their attraction is instant yet Lou just can’t seem to make herself go out of her comfort zone and Finn realizes this and he does everything in his power to help her. He does everything at her pace, learns about her when she is willing to give it, and he is just so gentle with her. Lou knows she is attracted to Finn, she wants to be with him but its not possible with her condition so she does a lot to keep him at arms length or push him away. Finn and Lou’s story was beautiful, emotional, and handled with such great care. I loved how much Nick was protective of her, how much Finn wanted to give the world to her only at her pace, and it was just perfection. I love these characters and their emotions because they are so realistic the author handles it all perfectly.
October 14, 2021
It was great to get a new release from Sarah Darlington and revisit the characters we met in Inked this time we get Lou and Finn's story. This is an absolutely adorable love story and you will quickly fall in love with Finn who is nothing like you might have imagined before. He's not an unfeeling womanizer he is in fact very protective of the women in his life especially Amanda and Lou.
Most of us could not imagine what it must be like to be agoraphobic like Lou, usually too afraid to leave the house and to meet new people, she has lived a very strange life prior to meeting Nick and moving with him to North Carolina. As soon as Finn sees her he is intrigued by her and wants to know her better. Lou is equally intrigued by Finn but her sheltered life has left her with no idea how to interact with a man, and a stranger at that except for what she has learned from reading romance books.
This is a slow burn romance that will remind you of the anxiety and angst when you first started dating, what to do and what to say. It is also incredibly sweet and you will swoon over Finn who is willing to do the most ridiculous (to most of us) things to be able to gain Lou's confidence. Bit by bit Lou's barriers fall but not without moments of awkwardness that might be funny if not so sad but Finn is willing to take everything in his stride if it means getting close to the woman he loves.
I was really inspired by this story of a young woman overcoming many hurdles to finally get happiness in her life with the man she loves and a guy finding the strength and patience he never knew he had to win the heart of this young woman. Sarah has quickly become one of my favorite writers whose new releases I look forward to. If you have not read Inked then you should as Nick and Amanda's story will give you the background for Marked.
Most of us could not imagine what it must be like to be agoraphobic like Lou, usually too afraid to leave the house and to meet new people, she has lived a very strange life prior to meeting Nick and moving with him to North Carolina. As soon as Finn sees her he is intrigued by her and wants to know her better. Lou is equally intrigued by Finn but her sheltered life has left her with no idea how to interact with a man, and a stranger at that except for what she has learned from reading romance books.
This is a slow burn romance that will remind you of the anxiety and angst when you first started dating, what to do and what to say. It is also incredibly sweet and you will swoon over Finn who is willing to do the most ridiculous (to most of us) things to be able to gain Lou's confidence. Bit by bit Lou's barriers fall but not without moments of awkwardness that might be funny if not so sad but Finn is willing to take everything in his stride if it means getting close to the woman he loves.
I was really inspired by this story of a young woman overcoming many hurdles to finally get happiness in her life with the man she loves and a guy finding the strength and patience he never knew he had to win the heart of this young woman. Sarah has quickly become one of my favorite writers whose new releases I look forward to. If you have not read Inked then you should as Nick and Amanda's story will give you the background for Marked.
October 14, 2021
*I received a digital ARC copy to read and review.
This book is the second book in the Kill Devil Ink world, tagged as a stand alone. I haven't read Inked, the first book in this world so my review might be biased because of that. So I recommend you read Inked first because some of the questions I have might be answered there.
Marked follows Lou and Finn. Lou has a debilitating form of agoraphobia and can't leave home without having a panic attack, yet in the very beginning she accompanies her friend Nick to a tattoo parlor to see his former fling, Amanda. Nick and Amanda are the MCs from Inked.
So Finn sees Lou and it's like love at first sight for the dude, even though he's a well known womanizer, a new chick every night and never the same once twice.
The character interactions and the pacing of the book seemed a bit choppy to me. I wish the characters had a bit more depth as they seemed a bit one dimensional.
The book focuses on Lou but we never really find out why she lived in a library since she was a kid. Why did her mom abandon her there? Did the librarians live there too? Didn't she go to school? How did she meet Nick? Why didn't Nick's mom take her in? Why didn't anyone call CPS to come get this kid from the library? Something must have happened to trigger her agoraphobia but we never discover what. Maybe these are all answered in Inked. 🤔
This book is the second book in the Kill Devil Ink world, tagged as a stand alone. I haven't read Inked, the first book in this world so my review might be biased because of that. So I recommend you read Inked first because some of the questions I have might be answered there.
Marked follows Lou and Finn. Lou has a debilitating form of agoraphobia and can't leave home without having a panic attack, yet in the very beginning she accompanies her friend Nick to a tattoo parlor to see his former fling, Amanda. Nick and Amanda are the MCs from Inked.
So Finn sees Lou and it's like love at first sight for the dude, even though he's a well known womanizer, a new chick every night and never the same once twice.
The character interactions and the pacing of the book seemed a bit choppy to me. I wish the characters had a bit more depth as they seemed a bit one dimensional.
The book focuses on Lou but we never really find out why she lived in a library since she was a kid. Why did her mom abandon her there? Did the librarians live there too? Didn't she go to school? How did she meet Nick? Why didn't Nick's mom take her in? Why didn't anyone call CPS to come get this kid from the library? Something must have happened to trigger her agoraphobia but we never discover what. Maybe these are all answered in Inked. 🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2021
What I like about Sarah Darlington's Kill Devil Ink series is that the characters are far from perfect- they're flawed, vulnerable, slightly damaged, and oh so human. It's refreshing to read about people like Lou and Finn- characters who don't have it all together. Lou, with her shit childhood which led to her living/suffering with agoraphobia, and Finn, whose confidence and reputation as a player is really just a façade. Lou's world is confined by the walls she can't step out from, Finn's from the walls he builds around himself. These are two people who you'd never expect to work, but their connection from the beginning was undeniable.
I really liked both of these characters, a lot. I loved how patient Finn was with Lou, never pushing her past her comfort zone and never thinking he could "fix" her. Lou's background story was a definite heart-tugger, but I liked how she persevered, in spite of her agoraphobia.
I enjoyed seeing their romance blossom, as prickly as it was!
I'm very glad that Ms. Darlington didn't have Lou automatically "cured" by the end of the story, that would have been too unrealistic and not in keeping with the rest of the story.
I really liked both of these characters, a lot. I loved how patient Finn was with Lou, never pushing her past her comfort zone and never thinking he could "fix" her. Lou's background story was a definite heart-tugger, but I liked how she persevered, in spite of her agoraphobia.
I enjoyed seeing their romance blossom, as prickly as it was!
I'm very glad that Ms. Darlington didn't have Lou automatically "cured" by the end of the story, that would have been too unrealistic and not in keeping with the rest of the story.
October 18, 2021
Marked is the newest story in the Kill Devil Ink series. We met the main characters before, Lou and Finn in the first story, Inked, and new something was happening between them. All books in the series can be read as standalone but if you want the full experience of characters, grab them all.
Lou didn’t have what you would call a normal childhood, she meets Nick early in life and they become great friends. Even through it all she was happy. They decide to go to North Carolina and she meets Finn. Just like Lou, Finn has struggled in his own life. But one look at her, makes him want to get to know her better. When she makes a daring request of him, he can’t say no. Can 2 broken bodies make a stronger pair?
The author takes time to write character that aren’t cut and dry, not squeaky clean, not who you would necessary think would be the main characters of a love story. That is what makes her stories great. This is real life, we know these characters, we could be these characters. It makes for a more connective experience when I read these stories when I can relate. The story isn’t wrapped up in so many pages, that is real life and I appreciate the author for stories like this.
Lou didn’t have what you would call a normal childhood, she meets Nick early in life and they become great friends. Even through it all she was happy. They decide to go to North Carolina and she meets Finn. Just like Lou, Finn has struggled in his own life. But one look at her, makes him want to get to know her better. When she makes a daring request of him, he can’t say no. Can 2 broken bodies make a stronger pair?
The author takes time to write character that aren’t cut and dry, not squeaky clean, not who you would necessary think would be the main characters of a love story. That is what makes her stories great. This is real life, we know these characters, we could be these characters. It makes for a more connective experience when I read these stories when I can relate. The story isn’t wrapped up in so many pages, that is real life and I appreciate the author for stories like this.
October 15, 2021
We meet Lou in book 1 when she accompanies Nick from North Carolina to Devil's ink. Lou suffers from severe agoraphobia, meaning the fear of situations so it controls a huge aspect of her life. When she successfully leaves the house with Nick to accompany him to Kill Devils Ink she locks eyes with Finn. There's an instant connection on both sides but Lou's agoraphobia means they need to think out of the box for ways to connect.
I absolutely loved this slow burn romance. Lou and all her struggles were really well written and Finn melted my heart. Despite being the tough, bad boy he was really sensitive and understanding of Lou's needs.
I really enjoyed the length, it was shorter and I expected but a lot of this timeline is connected to book 1 and there wasn't a lot of going over everything from book 1. It's assumed that you remember, which I did and I enjoyed that I didn't have to rehash all the details from book 1. That being said I don't think you'd enjoy this as a standalone because I think you'd miss a lot of details about each character.
Sarah was a new to me author when I read book 1 but I really enjoy her writing style and her gritty but sensitive characters.
I absolutely loved this slow burn romance. Lou and all her struggles were really well written and Finn melted my heart. Despite being the tough, bad boy he was really sensitive and understanding of Lou's needs.
I really enjoyed the length, it was shorter and I expected but a lot of this timeline is connected to book 1 and there wasn't a lot of going over everything from book 1. It's assumed that you remember, which I did and I enjoyed that I didn't have to rehash all the details from book 1. That being said I don't think you'd enjoy this as a standalone because I think you'd miss a lot of details about each character.
Sarah was a new to me author when I read book 1 but I really enjoy her writing style and her gritty but sensitive characters.
October 13, 2021
I don't think you will ever read a book quite like Marked, Finn and Lou's story is unique in every way, Sarah Darlington has produced a moving and emotional story one that doesn't pull any punches even with the HEA at the end. Sometimes it is nice to be placed out of your comfort zone, not in a dark romance way but with something completely different.
Lou suffers from Agoraphobia and rarely leaves the house so when she happens to meet playboy tattoo artist Finn her life is turned upside turn but Finn could be just the guy to make Lou feel like a woman for once. Finn doesn't know what it is about Lou that draws her to him, his one/two-week rule with women is about to be tested, because Lou is stronger than she thinks and he wants to be the one to prove it to her.
I Highly recommend Marked if you want a romance with a HEA that will open your eyes to the fact that there can be more to a romance story.
Lou suffers from Agoraphobia and rarely leaves the house so when she happens to meet playboy tattoo artist Finn her life is turned upside turn but Finn could be just the guy to make Lou feel like a woman for once. Finn doesn't know what it is about Lou that draws her to him, his one/two-week rule with women is about to be tested, because Lou is stronger than she thinks and he wants to be the one to prove it to her.
I Highly recommend Marked if you want a romance with a HEA that will open your eyes to the fact that there can be more to a romance story.
October 14, 2021
I loved the first book in this series and I was waiting for this one and it didn’t disappoint. This story was incredible , so interesting . I love the way the author created these characters , they felt very real and vulnerable making them so understandable and lovable.
I loved Lou and Finn relationship , their chemistry was it’s instant fire . Lou has been through so much but it’s so strong and inspirational , so smart and beautiful. Finn it’s a bad ass who was a player until he met Lou and fell so hard. I loved the way he was with her .Their connection it’s pure combustible.
I loved the way the author took real life issues and created something beautiful and sincere, that touched my heart deeply. A love story that goes beyond barriers. I highly recommend this and I can’t wait to read more from Sarah.
I loved Lou and Finn relationship , their chemistry was it’s instant fire . Lou has been through so much but it’s so strong and inspirational , so smart and beautiful. Finn it’s a bad ass who was a player until he met Lou and fell so hard. I loved the way he was with her .Their connection it’s pure combustible.
I loved the way the author took real life issues and created something beautiful and sincere, that touched my heart deeply. A love story that goes beyond barriers. I highly recommend this and I can’t wait to read more from Sarah.
October 14, 2021
The events of this book parallel the story of Inked, and we can see Finn and Lou's side of Nick and Amanda's relationship.
When Finn sees Lou for the first time, he's fascinated and intrigued by her, so he does what he can to get closer to her. What he didn't realize was that she would be interested in him too, but due to her agoraphobia, things aren't so simple between them.
Finn and Lou then make a deal for him to teach her the simple things in life, and I thought it was beautiful how he cares for her and does everything to make her feel good.
Their relationship builds over time and the two of them together are perfect.
I loved the story and the characters and I highly recommend the reading.
When Finn sees Lou for the first time, he's fascinated and intrigued by her, so he does what he can to get closer to her. What he didn't realize was that she would be interested in him too, but due to her agoraphobia, things aren't so simple between them.
Finn and Lou then make a deal for him to teach her the simple things in life, and I thought it was beautiful how he cares for her and does everything to make her feel good.
Their relationship builds over time and the two of them together are perfect.
I loved the story and the characters and I highly recommend the reading.
October 15, 2021
4.7 stars
This is part of the Kill Devil Ink series and I recommend reading Inked first as that is where readers first encountered Finn and Lou. However, it can be read as a standalone. The two are back here with their own storyline and it is one endearing read. Finn is a tattoo artist who becomes immediately enthralled with a woman wearing a hoodie, Lou, when she comes in with her best friend Nick. She has an intense fear of being in certain places and situations and is working on herself with Nick’s help as all she wants to do is live a normal life. These two are the most unlikely pairing but that is what makes them work. The author has done a commendable job weaving this story showing the beauty of acceptance as these two embark on a journey of love.
This is part of the Kill Devil Ink series and I recommend reading Inked first as that is where readers first encountered Finn and Lou. However, it can be read as a standalone. The two are back here with their own storyline and it is one endearing read. Finn is a tattoo artist who becomes immediately enthralled with a woman wearing a hoodie, Lou, when she comes in with her best friend Nick. She has an intense fear of being in certain places and situations and is working on herself with Nick’s help as all she wants to do is live a normal life. These two are the most unlikely pairing but that is what makes them work. The author has done a commendable job weaving this story showing the beauty of acceptance as these two embark on a journey of love.
November 4, 2021
Must Read! I've volunteered to review this for United Indie Book Blog. I love to read books by Sarah Darlington. Marked is the second book in the Kill Devil Ink series. This is Fin and Lou's story. Finn a smoking hot tattoo artist. Lou is Nick’s best friend and is very shy and has anxiety being out in the world. Finn and Lou are awesome characters. I love the way these characters were created. It made you feel everything they felt and went through. Their relationship builds over time. They are so perfect for each other. Finn was so tender and understanding with Lou's condition. I couldn't put it down. It's a MUST READ!!!!! You won't be disappointed in this one. Cannot wait to read more from Sarah. Keep up the amazing work!
November 9, 2021
Must Read! I've volunteered to review this for United Indie Book Blog. I love to read books by Sarah Darlington. Marked is the second book in the Kill Devil Ink series. This is Fin and Lou's story. Finn a smoking hot tattoo artist. Lou is Nick’s best friend and is very shy and has anxiety being out in the world. Finn and Lou are awesome characters. I love the way these characters were created. It made you feel everything they felt and went through. Their relationship builds over time. They are so perfect for each other. Finn was so tender and understanding with Lou's condition. I couldn't put it down. It's a MUST READ!!!!! You won't be disappointed in this one. Cannot wait to read more from Sarah. Keep up the amazing work!
REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
October 3, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review, all thoughts are my own.
I really enjoyed being back in Kill Devil Hills, it’s been a hot minute.
I loved getting to see more of Lou and Finn and see inside both of their heads. This pair have some serious history, especially Lou! This girl has been through the ringer for sure. I really think these 2 bring out the best in each other and make the other strive for more.
🖤 Insta Love
🖤 Friends to lovers
I really enjoyed the setting of this book, and loved being back in the tattoo studio. Great storyline with relatable characters. Great fast easy read, and looking forward to book 3.
I really enjoyed being back in Kill Devil Hills, it’s been a hot minute.
I loved getting to see more of Lou and Finn and see inside both of their heads. This pair have some serious history, especially Lou! This girl has been through the ringer for sure. I really think these 2 bring out the best in each other and make the other strive for more.
🖤 Insta Love
🖤 Friends to lovers
I really enjoyed the setting of this book, and loved being back in the tattoo studio. Great storyline with relatable characters. Great fast easy read, and looking forward to book 3.
October 13, 2021
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
Having read Amanda and Nicks story in Inked I was looking forward to reading Finn and Lou's story and I was not disappointed.
Finn showed real patience in dealing with Lou with all her insecurities, but was also not afraid to push her a little or to give her a bit of a challenge.
We see a little more of Amanda and Nick in a different way too and we get to meet Patrick a little more. I cannot wait until his story.
I enjoyed this trip to kill devil hills and hope that we get some more stories in this place.
Having read Amanda and Nicks story in Inked I was looking forward to reading Finn and Lou's story and I was not disappointed.
Finn showed real patience in dealing with Lou with all her insecurities, but was also not afraid to push her a little or to give her a bit of a challenge.
We see a little more of Amanda and Nick in a different way too and we get to meet Patrick a little more. I cannot wait until his story.
I enjoyed this trip to kill devil hills and hope that we get some more stories in this place.
October 14, 2021
I love this story so much! Finn and Lou are awesome characters. Lou has agoraphobia and her fear is palpable. I could not imagine having a fear so crippling. Finn is a typical play boy, buy he sees something in Lou. He's not sure what it is but he's is willing to find out. I love Sarah's characters because they are always so different. Her books have flawed, but real people looking for that special something or someone to connect with, but also looking to do better and be better. That makes it easy to connect with them while reading. I loved getting inside their heads and cheering them on. Awesome read! I was given the opportunity to read a copy of this book.
October 18, 2021
Marked is book two in the Kill Devil Ink series. It can be read as a standalone but if you have read the first, Inked, then you will recognize some of the characters. I loved all the characters in this story. Lou suffers from agoraphobia and doesn't leave her house often. She's nice and sweet but agoraphobia has taken a lot from her. She meets Finn. Finn is drawn to Loue. He does struggle a bit but he is sweet and patient. I loved how they get closer to each other. Lou hasn't dated before and there are a lot of firsts she wants. These two don't seem like they would mix well but they are perfect for each other.
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