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Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins #4
Inked Craving
The Montgomery Ink saga from NYT Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan continues with a friends to lovers romance that breaks all of their own rules.
Instead of walking away with a marriage proposal, Paige Montgomery ended up broken hearted and pregnant.
Now she has to figure out how to begin her life again alone.
She refuses to fall for another man, yet every time she sees Lee Grier, her traitorous heart aches for him. It doesn’t matter he’s her brother’s best friend and wants to be her rock in the storm. She knows she has to weather the oncoming pressures on her own.
When they can no longer fight the pull between them, they’ll have to remember that passion can only shelter them from reality for so long and letting themselves fall will be the hardest step yet.
Instead of walking away with a marriage proposal, Paige Montgomery ended up broken hearted and pregnant.
Now she has to figure out how to begin her life again alone.
She refuses to fall for another man, yet every time she sees Lee Grier, her traitorous heart aches for him. It doesn’t matter he’s her brother’s best friend and wants to be her rock in the storm. She knows she has to weather the oncoming pressures on her own.
When they can no longer fight the pull between them, they’ll have to remember that passion can only shelter them from reality for so long and letting themselves fall will be the hardest step yet.
330 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2022
76 people are currently reading
3942 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
284 books6,358 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
February 15, 2022
How do you pick up the pieces left behind when you are positive your boyfriend is going to propose to you only he tells you that he's moving to New York and leaving you behind? Well, when numerous pregnancy test tell you that he left something behind you do what you have to do because now there is a little one depending on you. This is exactly what happens to Paige Montgomery only she's not as alone as she thinks she is.
Lee Grier has been best of friends with two of Paige's brothers for many years so when he see's her standing alone in the rain he knows something is wrong and is determined to make things right for her...no matter the consequences.
I love the chemistry between Paige and Lee, and knowing that he was going to stand beside her through everything no matter what was great. This book had a lot of angst, maybe a little to much, I would have been okay with focusing on just one thing...Colton leaving Paige pregnant and alone would have been just fine but there was more to this story that I am not going to share because it's not mentioned in the book blurb so it would be a spoiler. But regardless this was a great read that I really enjoyed.
If you enjoy Steamy Contemporary Romances, Surprise Pregnancy Romances, Siblings Best Friend Romances, Friends to Lovers Romances, or Large Family Romances I would recommend this book to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewIC
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Lee Grier has been best of friends with two of Paige's brothers for many years so when he see's her standing alone in the rain he knows something is wrong and is determined to make things right for her...no matter the consequences.
I love the chemistry between Paige and Lee, and knowing that he was going to stand beside her through everything no matter what was great. This book had a lot of angst, maybe a little to much, I would have been okay with focusing on just one thing...Colton leaving Paige pregnant and alone would have been just fine but there was more to this story that I am not going to share because it's not mentioned in the book blurb so it would be a spoiler. But regardless this was a great read that I really enjoyed.
If you enjoy Steamy Contemporary Romances, Surprise Pregnancy Romances, Siblings Best Friend Romances, Friends to Lovers Romances, or Large Family Romances I would recommend this book to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewIC
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
May 28, 2022
3.5/5 ⭐️
2.25/5 🌶
Tropes:
- small town
- romantic suspense (kinda)
- brother’s best friend
- friends to lovers
- pregnant heroine *not the hero’s*
POV: first person - dual
Type: interconnected stand-alone (book four)
Idk how to describe this. It was kinda messy and all over the place but nothing happened at the same time?
I liked it but I didn’t love it.
I love the brother’s best friend trope but this one didn’t have the forbidden aspect to it so it added nothing 🤷🏽♀️
2.25/5 🌶
Tropes:
- small town
- romantic suspense (kinda)
- brother’s best friend
- friends to lovers
- pregnant heroine *not the hero’s*
POV: first person - dual
Type: interconnected stand-alone (book four)
Idk how to describe this. It was kinda messy and all over the place but nothing happened at the same time?
I liked it but I didn’t love it.
I love the brother’s best friend trope but this one didn’t have the forbidden aspect to it so it added nothing 🤷🏽♀️
July 25, 2022
This book was so emotional for me and I absolutely loved it. First off I wish all single moms that are done like Paige could have a Lee. Because he stepped up for her and was there for her whenever she needed him. When Paige thought her boyfriend was gonna propose not say he was leaving states she thought that was bad. But when the pos said he didn't want anything to do with their child that's what really got her. But of course Lee was there for her and he said he would be there for that baby til it was fully grown she didn't know what to think. So yeah I cried in this book, I wanted to throw my kindle. I wanted to beat a guy up for just being him. But I did laugh and they are some sexy times. And they are some sweet times that your gonna have your heart melting like chocolate left in a seat on a hot day. But most of all this book has everything you want for a great read. The only reason I didn't give this book a 5 star review was that it was to much of a slow build after they already slept together. And they didn't talk about it which I think they should have just a little more than what transpired. But that's just me being picky. Because the book was amazing either way and I loved it and highly highly recommend it!!!!
February 17, 2022
This one surprised me in some ways, but not others. You knew there were problems between Paige and Colton, ones that Paige didn't want to see. I sure didn't expect to see how they ended or what Paige learned after the fact. I loved that Lee was there for Paige and was glad that they didn't jump into a relationship. Instead Lee was there for Paige as her life changed, their feelings developing deeply. By the time that they decided that they would try dating it seemed natural and right for them. I do wish that we could have done without the drama towards the end on so many fronts, but it worked out and Paige and Lee were living their lives happy.
February 3, 2022
When Paige is called to their special place to meet Colton, she thinks she is going to be proposed to. She never could have imagined that he would instead announce that he is moving away and that he doesn't necessarily care if she comes with him or not. A few months later, she realizes that he hasn't just left her but also their recently conceived child.
Paige is set to go this alone, but she finds a partner in her brother's best friend, Lee. She's known him forever and had a crush on him since she was young, but now that is turning into something different. She isn't falling in love again though. Love has only proved to be a disaster for her. So how will Lee fit into her life then?
I loved this story. For fans of the pregnancy romance trope, this is just *chef's kiss* amazing. Lee and Paige have an amazing chemistry, and a wonderful friendship that is just amazing to watch develop. There is also a little mystery and suspense thrown into the mix that made this a book that was almost impossible for me to put down! I read this as a stand alone, and had no issues in following the story, but I'm excited to go back and read more in the series!
Thank you so much to Carrie Ann Ryan for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Paige is set to go this alone, but she finds a partner in her brother's best friend, Lee. She's known him forever and had a crush on him since she was young, but now that is turning into something different. She isn't falling in love again though. Love has only proved to be a disaster for her. So how will Lee fit into her life then?
I loved this story. For fans of the pregnancy romance trope, this is just *chef's kiss* amazing. Lee and Paige have an amazing chemistry, and a wonderful friendship that is just amazing to watch develop. There is also a little mystery and suspense thrown into the mix that made this a book that was almost impossible for me to put down! I read this as a stand alone, and had no issues in following the story, but I'm excited to go back and read more in the series!
Thank you so much to Carrie Ann Ryan for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
February 22, 2022
Inked Craving is the fourth in the Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins series. Paige Montgomery’s world is turned upside down when she thought Colton was proposing marriage but he was ending their relationship, which is followed shortly by a positive pregnancy test..
She runs into Lee one night and he comes to her rescue when he realizes that something is wrong. She shares her secret and in return he offers to be there for her through it all. Lee and Paige have tried to deny their feelings cause Lee is Paige’s brother’s best friend and neither one want to ruin their friendship or hurt the family. Their story is witty, passionate, captivating and off the Charts 🔥🔥🔥. I am #teamLee All The Way!! Definitely Your Next 5 ⭐️ Read..
She runs into Lee one night and he comes to her rescue when he realizes that something is wrong. She shares her secret and in return he offers to be there for her through it all. Lee and Paige have tried to deny their feelings cause Lee is Paige’s brother’s best friend and neither one want to ruin their friendship or hurt the family. Their story is witty, passionate, captivating and off the Charts 🔥🔥🔥. I am #teamLee All The Way!! Definitely Your Next 5 ⭐️ Read..
February 20, 2022
This wasn't one of my favorite books in this series by Ryan. I did love Lee. He's awesome. He's dedicated and loves Paige and the baby. I liked Paige, but for someone who's so fiercely independent, she just wasn't in this book. I did hate Colton and his selfishness. It's a good thing Paige doesn't end up with that guy. I had a problem with the way the plot played out near the end and Lee's personal problem that he was dealing with. (I don't want to give that away, so won't go into detail.) Anyway, it was okay, but would not be on my reread list. This was a sweet romance and if you're a CAR fan, like me, you'll want to read it. 3.5 stars
February 3, 2022
This was friends to lovers on steroids!!! These two were all over the place, starting at the very secure friendship they had, with him being her big brother’s best friend. Life brought them together when she was at a pivotal point in her life, and that had them forming their own bond. That bond grew deeper over time and all the lines continually got blurred. They didn’t know what they were, what they were doing, and neither did everyone around them. The emotional ties strengthened and entwined around them, so, by the time they realized what was right there, it was simply a case of embracing it <3
Now, can we talk about how little Leif is all grown up and hanging with the grown ups now?????
Now, can we talk about how little Leif is all grown up and hanging with the grown ups now?????
February 15, 2022
The friends to more trope is one of my all time favorites to read and CAR did an exceptional job with this one. The main reason I love this trope so much is because the only difference between true, long-lasting friendship bonds and a romantic relationship is sex. That’s it. One tiny little aspect in the big scheme of things. An important aspect, of course, but just one, nonetheless. If you’ve built a friendship with someone over the years, you’re just a hop away :) That’s what Lee and Paige have and CAR wrote their story with a huge heart and full of hope.
Filled with just enough angst and #feels to have me on the brink of tears at way too many times, Inked Craving is the perfect afternoon read you will not want to put down!
Filled with just enough angst and #feels to have me on the brink of tears at way too many times, Inked Craving is the perfect afternoon read you will not want to put down!
February 15, 2022
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU / B&N / KOBO / APPLE BOOKS / GOOGLE PLAY
Paige thought she was going to receive a proposal, what she got instead was dumped while pregnant. Now she has to figure out how to do it all on her own, how to tell her large, overprotective family she's going to do it all alone. Then her brother's best friend Lee, takes it upon himself to be by her side for everything. She knows better than to fall for Lee, but she can't seem to help herself because he's everything her ex wasn't - kind, steady, and loving. How can she possibly resist, even knowing her poor heart could be broken beyond repair if things fall apart. Will she let Lee past her defenses?
Paige and Lee's story was amazing to read as it slowly developed from strictly friendship to much more. They didn't rush to the bedroom, and honestly, the story and their relationship was better for it. I hurt for Paige, and Lee, for their demons, but the way they found strength and love with each other made up for all the pain they experienced. I have so enjoyed my time in with the Fort Collins crew, and I'm dying with anticipation to read the next story as Archer gets his happy ever after!
ARC provided by Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.
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February 10, 2022
4 star Review Inked Craving (Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins #4) by Carrie Ann Ryan
I always enjoy my visits to Fort Collins to visit with the Montgomery family. This is Paige Montgomery and Lee Grier’s story and was a good addition to the series. Paige has been left alone and pregnant, so the last things she needs is to be attracted to Lee, her brother’s best friend.
Despite herself the attraction that sizzles between them becomes to hard to ignore. Although Paige is determined to keep him at bay, Lee is equally as determined; he will have his work cut out for him if he is to convince Paige to take a chance. Both of them have baggage so the question is can they come to terms with it and risk it all for a change at lasting happiness and love?
I loved that their relationship was based on friendship and it was heart warming to watch it develop as their relationship progressed. Lee was there for her no matter what and I admired that about him. The connection they had was deep and true and I was so glad they finally got the happily ever after they both deserved.
Oh and can I just say that her ex Colton was a real piece of work.
I always enjoy my visits to Fort Collins to visit with the Montgomery family. This is Paige Montgomery and Lee Grier’s story and was a good addition to the series. Paige has been left alone and pregnant, so the last things she needs is to be attracted to Lee, her brother’s best friend.
Despite herself the attraction that sizzles between them becomes to hard to ignore. Although Paige is determined to keep him at bay, Lee is equally as determined; he will have his work cut out for him if he is to convince Paige to take a chance. Both of them have baggage so the question is can they come to terms with it and risk it all for a change at lasting happiness and love?
I loved that their relationship was based on friendship and it was heart warming to watch it develop as their relationship progressed. Lee was there for her no matter what and I admired that about him. The connection they had was deep and true and I was so glad they finally got the happily ever after they both deserved.
Oh and can I just say that her ex Colton was a real piece of work.
February 18, 2022
Carrie Ann Ryan has delivered yet another great addition to this gripping series that I absolutely love and this one is Paige and Lee's turn.
After being left behind by her boyfriend instead of proposed to Paige is heartbroken but when she finds out she is pregnant her world is tipped upside down and she needs to figure out how to live her life alone as a single parent.
She knew her family would be supportive but she didn't want to rely on them and lean on them too much, she just never expected to find support in the form of Lee, her brothers best friend, and her secret crush. He is determined to be whatever Paige needs, be there for her and the baby every step of the way. The chemistry between them is off the charts hot I am pretty surprised there wasn't steam coming off my kindle but i loved the way they took their time, they didn't rush into anything, they built an amazingly strong foundation for their relationship .
well done on another brilliant read and I can't wait to see what is brought next in this series.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the Author and Give Me Books
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
After being left behind by her boyfriend instead of proposed to Paige is heartbroken but when she finds out she is pregnant her world is tipped upside down and she needs to figure out how to live her life alone as a single parent.
She knew her family would be supportive but she didn't want to rely on them and lean on them too much, she just never expected to find support in the form of Lee, her brothers best friend, and her secret crush. He is determined to be whatever Paige needs, be there for her and the baby every step of the way. The chemistry between them is off the charts hot I am pretty surprised there wasn't steam coming off my kindle but i loved the way they took their time, they didn't rush into anything, they built an amazingly strong foundation for their relationship .
well done on another brilliant read and I can't wait to see what is brought next in this series.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the Author and Give Me Books
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
February 7, 2022
The friends to lovers trope is a favorite of mine and this book did not disappoint. The feels are huge, the swoon is strong, and the emotions are potent as Paige and Lee's romance unfolds. My heart ached for Paige, and I thought Lee was a five-star, gold member of the book boyfriend club. These two are just so incredibly sweet together. Along with the romance you get a bit of mystery, but for me it was all about the beautiful love story that yanked on my heartstrings, sent my own emotions spinning and left me a mushy mess. I am electing to post a forthright review.
December 27, 2025
Inked Craving - Fabulous!
Inked Craving, book 4 the Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins/book 19 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author! I am reading the Montgomery world in chronological order from Carrie Ann’s website.
Such a heartwarming book about Paige (A Montgomery) & Lee! Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, Brothers Best Friend, Pregnant by her Ex, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn-ish, Ex Drama, No 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
Inked Craving, book 4 the Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins/book 19 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author! I am reading the Montgomery world in chronological order from Carrie Ann’s website.
Such a heartwarming book about Paige (A Montgomery) & Lee! Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, Brothers Best Friend, Pregnant by her Ex, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn-ish, Ex Drama, No 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
February 15, 2022
Inked Craving by Carrie Ann Ryan was an emotional and touching read with so many feels. This is the fourth book in the Montgomery Ink Fort Collins series and though you can technically read each book as a standalone, you get more of the story by reading in order. This is Paige Montgomery’s book and for those reading from the beginning, we all wanted to know what her story would be and let me tell you, it was worth the wait. I loved Paige. She is strong, determined and caring. She thought she had found her happily ever after and instead she ends up with a broken heart and pregnant. She is set to do this on her own and stay away from men.
Enter Lee. Lee is her brother’s best friend and more importantly a family friend. He is always there for those who care about him and is very protective and caring. He is determined to be there for Paige, but suddenly lines get blurred and they begin to see what could be. But when both of them are wary of relationships, can they let the other in? I loved watching these two fall and interact with each other. Another great read by this author and I cannot wait for Archer’s story.
Happy reading!
Enter Lee. Lee is her brother’s best friend and more importantly a family friend. He is always there for those who care about him and is very protective and caring. He is determined to be there for Paige, but suddenly lines get blurred and they begin to see what could be. But when both of them are wary of relationships, can they let the other in? I loved watching these two fall and interact with each other. Another great read by this author and I cannot wait for Archer’s story.
Happy reading!
February 16, 2022
5 EMOTIONAL STARS!! This one will pull at your heartstrings. Paige and Lee will take you on one emotional rollercoaster and you will love every twist and turn. I love this series so much.
May 1, 2022
Another fantastic story in the Montgomery Ink world. Really enjoyed Lee and Paige's story and looking forward to more in this wonderful series.
December 23, 2023
"""Within each dark moment, there was light. A light to remind us of what we were fighting for and what outshone that darkness."" ~ Lee
I love the Montgomery's and Paige and Lee's story took my heart on a ride. This Best Friend's sister/ surprise baby story his all the tropes I love. Paige swore to never get her heart involved. Lee never wanted to be tied down but fate dealt them a royal flush kind of hand as they slowly morphed from friends, to more than friends, to not living without each other. This is a couple that you can't help to root for and my levels of happiness, anger and desperation in this story just shows me again the talent that is Carrie Ann Ryan. You keep writing girl and I will keep reading ❣️" ~Cindy
"This is the first I've read in this world from this author. I'm pretty sure it won't be the last. Paige is the youngest of the Montgomery siblings and thinks she is finally going to get her HEA, only to discover that isn't Colton's plan at all. That's not to say he leaves her alone. When she seems to be at a low point in her life, she finds an ally in her brother's best friend. The one she crushed on for more of her life than she cares to admit.
I enjoyed watching these two and their budding non-relationship relationship. For two people who had every intention to not go down that road at all, seems fate had other plans for them. A friendship that one could only hope for, chemistry that's undeniable (even though they tried), a bit of mystery and suspense tossed in for conflict, and we can't help but hope they can make it through and come out on the other side still together." ~Shirley
I love the Montgomery's and Paige and Lee's story took my heart on a ride. This Best Friend's sister/ surprise baby story his all the tropes I love. Paige swore to never get her heart involved. Lee never wanted to be tied down but fate dealt them a royal flush kind of hand as they slowly morphed from friends, to more than friends, to not living without each other. This is a couple that you can't help to root for and my levels of happiness, anger and desperation in this story just shows me again the talent that is Carrie Ann Ryan. You keep writing girl and I will keep reading ❣️" ~Cindy
"This is the first I've read in this world from this author. I'm pretty sure it won't be the last. Paige is the youngest of the Montgomery siblings and thinks she is finally going to get her HEA, only to discover that isn't Colton's plan at all. That's not to say he leaves her alone. When she seems to be at a low point in her life, she finds an ally in her brother's best friend. The one she crushed on for more of her life than she cares to admit.
I enjoyed watching these two and their budding non-relationship relationship. For two people who had every intention to not go down that road at all, seems fate had other plans for them. A friendship that one could only hope for, chemistry that's undeniable (even though they tried), a bit of mystery and suspense tossed in for conflict, and we can't help but hope they can make it through and come out on the other side still together." ~Shirley
February 10, 2022
4 star Review Inked Craving (Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins #4) by Carrie Ann Ryan
I always enjoy my visits to Fort Collins to visit with the Montgomery family. This is Paige Montgomery and Lee Grier’s story and was a good addition to the series. Paige has been left alone and pregnant, so the last things she needs is to be attracted to Lee, her brother’s best friend.
Despite herself the attraction that sizzles between them becomes to hard to ignore. Although Paige is determined to keep him at bay, Lee is equally as determined; he will have his work cut out for him if he is to convince Paige to take a chance. Both of them have baggage so the question is can they come to terms with it and risk it all for a change at lasting happiness and love?
I loved that their relationship was based on friendship and it was heart warming to watch it develop as their relationship progressed. Lee was there for her no matter what and I admired that about him. The connection they had was deep and true and I was so glad they finally got the happily ever after they both deserved.
Oh and can I just say that her ex Colton was a real piece of work.
I always enjoy my visits to Fort Collins to visit with the Montgomery family. This is Paige Montgomery and Lee Grier’s story and was a good addition to the series. Paige has been left alone and pregnant, so the last things she needs is to be attracted to Lee, her brother’s best friend.
Despite herself the attraction that sizzles between them becomes to hard to ignore. Although Paige is determined to keep him at bay, Lee is equally as determined; he will have his work cut out for him if he is to convince Paige to take a chance. Both of them have baggage so the question is can they come to terms with it and risk it all for a change at lasting happiness and love?
I loved that their relationship was based on friendship and it was heart warming to watch it develop as their relationship progressed. Lee was there for her no matter what and I admired that about him. The connection they had was deep and true and I was so glad they finally got the happily ever after they both deserved.
Oh and can I just say that her ex Colton was a real piece of work.
February 15, 2022
I enjoyed Paige and Lee's story. I loved their storyline and how it goes though I did get frustrated at times especially when they choose not to communicate. I mean, I understand he doesn't want her to get stressed what with being pregnant. But I need to know where they stand, you know. They already have the chemistry and attraction ready to go. Aside from that, I loved how Lee comes in and help Paige though he has his own issues. But still, he steps up. I loved that Paige's family love him just like he is their own. This is definitely a sweet, emotional story with a little bit of suspense. Really recommend it!
June 9, 2022
Paige and Lee are in the running for fave couple…
Some time ago I read the first book in this series and then at some point added this fourth book to my TBR list. When I finally got around to reading it I decided to go ahead and start at the beginning and read them all in order though. While I do love this series, I almost wish I hadn’t done that just because I was really looking forward to this book but found a lot of the storyline was basically a repeat of the second and third books and that was distracting.
In this series we have a very tightknit group of Montgomery siblings and their friends. This is the third book in a row where a Montgomery sibling has wound up with one of the close friends, yet somehow each time they act surprised and struggle with “we shouldn’t…. This is wrong”. After the third couple and the same reaction, I had to shake my head. At this point surely no one would be surprised or upset, so it was really a nonissue. In fact, the brothers were actually all supportive about it. It was these two that were all in their own way. When Paige was getting in her own head and way, she started saying “I just need to breathe”, which was exactly the same things that Brenna kept saying in the last book 🙄 So while there really wasn’t anything wrong with the storyline (I actually love it) I do wish I had read this one first like I initially intended so it wasn’t a three-peat in those parts, which I find annoying.
Paige spent the previous books in a relationship with Colton, but got left behind when he made a career move to NYC and didn’t even consider bringing her. She was heartbroken, but the hits kept coming when she discovered she was pregnant. With her siblings all married off and starting their own families, she didn’t want to be a burden and felt alone. To be honest, the “I’m all alone” when she pushed her family away and refused to lean on them was a bit tedious. Being a strong woman doesn’t mean not accepting help, especially when you have such an involved protective family. But I digress… Unexpectedly, Lee volunteers to be at her side. Even he is surprised by his offer, as he always said he’d remain single with no kids forever. He has a tragic childhood that has colored his outlook (Trigger warning for some: Parent suicide). These two play “dating but not dating” for almost a year before they finally open their eyes and accept what is clearly happening between them. They are very sweet together. Lee is a great partner and a great guy. He steps up for Paige and the baby in a big way, and any guy that voluntarily steps up for that responsibility is amazing in my book.
I enjoy this series and love the Montgomery clan. I definitely enjoyed this book, which I expected, but wish so much of the writing wasn’t a repeat of the previous books.
Some time ago I read the first book in this series and then at some point added this fourth book to my TBR list. When I finally got around to reading it I decided to go ahead and start at the beginning and read them all in order though. While I do love this series, I almost wish I hadn’t done that just because I was really looking forward to this book but found a lot of the storyline was basically a repeat of the second and third books and that was distracting.
In this series we have a very tightknit group of Montgomery siblings and their friends. This is the third book in a row where a Montgomery sibling has wound up with one of the close friends, yet somehow each time they act surprised and struggle with “we shouldn’t…. This is wrong”. After the third couple and the same reaction, I had to shake my head. At this point surely no one would be surprised or upset, so it was really a nonissue. In fact, the brothers were actually all supportive about it. It was these two that were all in their own way. When Paige was getting in her own head and way, she started saying “I just need to breathe”, which was exactly the same things that Brenna kept saying in the last book 🙄 So while there really wasn’t anything wrong with the storyline (I actually love it) I do wish I had read this one first like I initially intended so it wasn’t a three-peat in those parts, which I find annoying.
Paige spent the previous books in a relationship with Colton, but got left behind when he made a career move to NYC and didn’t even consider bringing her. She was heartbroken, but the hits kept coming when she discovered she was pregnant. With her siblings all married off and starting their own families, she didn’t want to be a burden and felt alone. To be honest, the “I’m all alone” when she pushed her family away and refused to lean on them was a bit tedious. Being a strong woman doesn’t mean not accepting help, especially when you have such an involved protective family. But I digress… Unexpectedly, Lee volunteers to be at her side. Even he is surprised by his offer, as he always said he’d remain single with no kids forever. He has a tragic childhood that has colored his outlook (Trigger warning for some: Parent suicide). These two play “dating but not dating” for almost a year before they finally open their eyes and accept what is clearly happening between them. They are very sweet together. Lee is a great partner and a great guy. He steps up for Paige and the baby in a big way, and any guy that voluntarily steps up for that responsibility is amazing in my book.
I enjoy this series and love the Montgomery clan. I definitely enjoyed this book, which I expected, but wish so much of the writing wasn’t a repeat of the previous books.
February 16, 2022
This was another great installment into the Montgomery Ink series. This was not the typical friends to lovers read especially since it was such an emotional read.
Paige Montgomery thought that she was going to get a marriage proposal from her long-time boyfriend Colton. Instead she discovers that their relationship was not what she thought it was and he is leaving to accept a new job in NYC and leaving her behind. She later discovers that she is pregnant and is an emotional train wreck and turns to her brother's best friend, Leo for support.
Leo Greer, best friend of Benjamin as well as the other Montgomery's. He finds Paige in a daze after she learns of her pregnancy. He spends her entire pregnancy and the birth of her baby supporting her and unknowingly developing a relationship that he later realizes that he has no desire to walk away from. Unfortunately, while he is developing his feelings for Paige, he also develops a stalker in his life.
This was an emotional rollercoaster of a read - Paige with her feelings of being a single parent and then her developing feelings for Leo. Leo, in the meantime works through his developing feelings for Paige while he also struggles with his issues from the past - the death of his parents and his not initially wanting a family. Watching this pair find their HEA made this a good read even with all of the pesky feelings and emotions that are throughout this book.
This book can be read as a standalone read even though it is part of a series. I enjoyed the return of the characters from the previous series as a means to catch up with them. I also enjoyed the return of characters from the original Montgomery Ink series as a means to connect all of the series together.
In the end, this was a good addition to Fort Collins series as well as the over all Montgomery Ink series. I recommend this book to others as well as this series.
Paige Montgomery thought that she was going to get a marriage proposal from her long-time boyfriend Colton. Instead she discovers that their relationship was not what she thought it was and he is leaving to accept a new job in NYC and leaving her behind. She later discovers that she is pregnant and is an emotional train wreck and turns to her brother's best friend, Leo for support.
Leo Greer, best friend of Benjamin as well as the other Montgomery's. He finds Paige in a daze after she learns of her pregnancy. He spends her entire pregnancy and the birth of her baby supporting her and unknowingly developing a relationship that he later realizes that he has no desire to walk away from. Unfortunately, while he is developing his feelings for Paige, he also develops a stalker in his life.
This was an emotional rollercoaster of a read - Paige with her feelings of being a single parent and then her developing feelings for Leo. Leo, in the meantime works through his developing feelings for Paige while he also struggles with his issues from the past - the death of his parents and his not initially wanting a family. Watching this pair find their HEA made this a good read even with all of the pesky feelings and emotions that are throughout this book.
This book can be read as a standalone read even though it is part of a series. I enjoyed the return of the characters from the previous series as a means to catch up with them. I also enjoyed the return of characters from the original Montgomery Ink series as a means to connect all of the series together.
In the end, this was a good addition to Fort Collins series as well as the over all Montgomery Ink series. I recommend this book to others as well as this series.
February 20, 2022
Paige and Colton have been an item throughout the previous books and whilst her brothers were finding their forever loves Paige was patiently waiting for Colton to pop the question. She seems to view their relationship through rose coloured glasses despite being so practical when it comes to everything else. Then Colton calls and arranges a special meeting where she's expecting him to get down on one knee he instead tells her he's leaving for New York to follow his dreams with no thought about what this will mean to her.
Weeks pass with no word from Colton and then she realises that she's pregnant. Her family, although supportive are all dealing with issues in their own lives, one has just had twins and another is trying to adopt and the last thing she wants is to be is a burden so she tells them all to give her space. Lee's a confirmed bachelor with issues of his own, he's also her brother's best friend so she's surprised when he offers to be there for her stating that he's her friend too and he'll help in any way he can. Although the offer was a surprise she takes him up on it and as the weeks pass they find themselves growing closer - but both of them are in total denial of their growing feelings.
I really enjoyed the slow build-up between Paige and Lee how without really realising it they became a unit, a family of two but what will happen when the baby comes? I loved this sweet romantic story of friendship turning into love. Then when it looked like everything was going to be perfect the author surprised us with well... I'm not saying, that would be one spoiler too many, what I will say is download this one and listen you are bound to love it!
I loved the narration of this book it was so well done, Emma Wilder as Paige and Aaron Shedlock as Lee was excellent, they are both wonderfully talented and they work together beautifully.
Weeks pass with no word from Colton and then she realises that she's pregnant. Her family, although supportive are all dealing with issues in their own lives, one has just had twins and another is trying to adopt and the last thing she wants is to be is a burden so she tells them all to give her space. Lee's a confirmed bachelor with issues of his own, he's also her brother's best friend so she's surprised when he offers to be there for her stating that he's her friend too and he'll help in any way he can. Although the offer was a surprise she takes him up on it and as the weeks pass they find themselves growing closer - but both of them are in total denial of their growing feelings.
I really enjoyed the slow build-up between Paige and Lee how without really realising it they became a unit, a family of two but what will happen when the baby comes? I loved this sweet romantic story of friendship turning into love. Then when it looked like everything was going to be perfect the author surprised us with well... I'm not saying, that would be one spoiler too many, what I will say is download this one and listen you are bound to love it!
I loved the narration of this book it was so well done, Emma Wilder as Paige and Aaron Shedlock as Lee was excellent, they are both wonderfully talented and they work together beautifully.
February 16, 2022
Welcome back to Fort Collins, and the Montgomery Ink family.
Inked Craving picks up where Inked Devotion left off, and features Paige and Lee.
Paige is the youngest of the Montgomerys (she has four older siblings and fifteen older cousins), is office manager for the family business, and is working on mending her broken heart.
She had thought she was going to be getting a proposal, instead she mending her heart and determined to move forward with her life.
Lee has been a ‘honorary’ Montgomery for quite awhile—having been best friends with Beckett and Benjamin for years.
He comes to Paige’s rescue during a thunderstorm, and is the first to find out her ‘secret’.
He promises to be there as a friend to help her adjust and deal with things, since she feels like she needs to do it all on her own without family interference.
They slowly go from friends to lovers, with all the ‘normal’ bumps in the road.
Though there is also some danger lurking in the shadows…
Who is Clay’s ‘secret admirer’?
Will Paige and Lee be able to handle the bumps and twists?
The answers and more can be found within the pages of Inked Craving; I give Inked Cravings five out of five stars. I’m really enjoying the Fort Collins branch of the family, and especially enjoyed the appearance of a couple of Montgomery cousins from Denver. I would say that I’m ‘sad’ that Archer’s story is the last in the Montgomery family—but it looks like we’ll be seeing the next generation as they grow up and get their own stories.
Looking forward to seeing Archer get his happily-ever-after this summer. Take a dive into the Montgomery Ink World—a perfect way of dealing with the chills of winter.
Inked Craving picks up where Inked Devotion left off, and features Paige and Lee.
Paige is the youngest of the Montgomerys (she has four older siblings and fifteen older cousins), is office manager for the family business, and is working on mending her broken heart.
She had thought she was going to be getting a proposal, instead she mending her heart and determined to move forward with her life.
Lee has been a ‘honorary’ Montgomery for quite awhile—having been best friends with Beckett and Benjamin for years.
He comes to Paige’s rescue during a thunderstorm, and is the first to find out her ‘secret’.
He promises to be there as a friend to help her adjust and deal with things, since she feels like she needs to do it all on her own without family interference.
They slowly go from friends to lovers, with all the ‘normal’ bumps in the road.
Though there is also some danger lurking in the shadows…
Who is Clay’s ‘secret admirer’?
Will Paige and Lee be able to handle the bumps and twists?
The answers and more can be found within the pages of Inked Craving; I give Inked Cravings five out of five stars. I’m really enjoying the Fort Collins branch of the family, and especially enjoyed the appearance of a couple of Montgomery cousins from Denver. I would say that I’m ‘sad’ that Archer’s story is the last in the Montgomery family—but it looks like we’ll be seeing the next generation as they grow up and get their own stories.
Looking forward to seeing Archer get his happily-ever-after this summer. Take a dive into the Montgomery Ink World—a perfect way of dealing with the chills of winter.
February 7, 2022
I loved this deeply emotional story!
Paige's life is completely upended when she discovers she's pregnant shortly after her then-boyfriend moved on with his life without her. Not wanting to burden her family with her problems, she accepts help from Lee, her brother's best friend and her secret crush.
Knowing she's always off-limits, Lee never allowed himself to consider any of the "what ifs" he felt for Paige. But he can certainly be there for her now, no matter what. Their unlikely partnership is filled with highs and lows as they figure out what it all means for themselves and their families.
We already feel like we know both Paige and Lee from their secondary roles in previous books, and this continuity is one of the best things about reading in this author's world. But even if you're not familiar with the Montgomery family, you'll quickly fall in love with the entire crew as they pull together and support each other every step of the way. As much as this is a love story (and it's a beautiful one at that), it's also a tribute to the resiliency of families.
There's an ongoing threat lurking just under the radar, until it shocks everyone and sends Paige into a tailspin. I loved the way she and Lee worked through their conflicting emotions after all that was successfully resolved. I loved the maturity of all the characters, no tropey "touch my sister and die" nonsense, just honest affection between true friends while still safeguarding their sister's emotional well-being.
This romance is a fine example of why this author is one of my top-ten favorites, and I highly recommend it for anyone who loves contemporary romances. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Paige's life is completely upended when she discovers she's pregnant shortly after her then-boyfriend moved on with his life without her. Not wanting to burden her family with her problems, she accepts help from Lee, her brother's best friend and her secret crush.
Knowing she's always off-limits, Lee never allowed himself to consider any of the "what ifs" he felt for Paige. But he can certainly be there for her now, no matter what. Their unlikely partnership is filled with highs and lows as they figure out what it all means for themselves and their families.
We already feel like we know both Paige and Lee from their secondary roles in previous books, and this continuity is one of the best things about reading in this author's world. But even if you're not familiar with the Montgomery family, you'll quickly fall in love with the entire crew as they pull together and support each other every step of the way. As much as this is a love story (and it's a beautiful one at that), it's also a tribute to the resiliency of families.
There's an ongoing threat lurking just under the radar, until it shocks everyone and sends Paige into a tailspin. I loved the way she and Lee worked through their conflicting emotions after all that was successfully resolved. I loved the maturity of all the characters, no tropey "touch my sister and die" nonsense, just honest affection between true friends while still safeguarding their sister's emotional well-being.
This romance is a fine example of why this author is one of my top-ten favorites, and I highly recommend it for anyone who loves contemporary romances. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 16, 2022
4 Maple Leaf Review
Inked Craving (Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins #4) by Carrie Ann Ryan
Narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Emma Wilder
"𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘈 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴."
⏤
Paige was excited to start the next journey of her life only to be left heartbroken and pregnant. Lee not wanting to see Paige hurting or feeling alone, agrees to help her through her pregnancy. Only neither of them expected to fall in love.
Paige and Lee have great chemistry together. I loved how Lee was willing to be there for Paige through everything. I loved the typical Mongomery banter was present. I did think there was a little too much drama. I was surprised by the ending but am excited about the next book in the series to see what happens.
Aaron Shedlock and Emma Wilder did a great job bringing Lee, Paige and the entire cast of characters and the story to life.
Inked Craving is a brother's best friend, best friend's sister, surprise pregnancy, friends-to-lovers romance which is told from the dual first-person point of view.
*advanced copy kindly provided and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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Inked Craving (Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins #4) by Carrie Ann Ryan
Narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Emma Wilder
"𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵. 𝘈 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴."
⏤
Paige was excited to start the next journey of her life only to be left heartbroken and pregnant. Lee not wanting to see Paige hurting or feeling alone, agrees to help her through her pregnancy. Only neither of them expected to fall in love.
Paige and Lee have great chemistry together. I loved how Lee was willing to be there for Paige through everything. I loved the typical Mongomery banter was present. I did think there was a little too much drama. I was surprised by the ending but am excited about the next book in the series to see what happens.
Aaron Shedlock and Emma Wilder did a great job bringing Lee, Paige and the entire cast of characters and the story to life.
Inked Craving is a brother's best friend, best friend's sister, surprise pregnancy, friends-to-lovers romance which is told from the dual first-person point of view.
*advanced copy kindly provided and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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February 20, 2022
Paige was expecting a marriage proposal but got her boyfriend moving to New York without her. Paige realizes she is pregnant and doesn't want to burden her family with her when they have their own lives to live. Lee is a long time friend to the Montgomerys and has secretly crushed on Paige for years. Lee is out on a date when he spots Paige wandering around in the rain. Lee cuts his date short to get Paige home and take care of her. Lee learns Paige is pregnant and vows to be there for her throughout her pregnancy. Paige wants to stand on her own but finds herself leaning on Lee more and more. Paige finds she is looking at Lee as more than a friend as they spend more time together. Paige and Lee give into their attraction to each other but refuse to talk about what it means and what they mean to each other. Will Lee reassess his past and what his future could be with Paige and her baby? How will Paige's ex react when he learns he and Paige have a child together? What happens when Lee's stalker puts Paige's daughter in danger? I loved Paige and Lee! They have great chemistry and are such a strong couple. I love Carrie Ann Ryan! Inked Craving is a fantastic story that has a few surprises for the reader. Paige and Lee will have the reader rooting for them from the beginning to the end. I would highly recommend getting Inked Craving and any of the other books from the Montgomery Ink: Fort Collins series by Carrie Ann Ryan. I received an ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
February 13, 2022
Carrie Ann Ryan releases her top-notch captivating best, the surprises just kept coming, leaving you on the edge of your seat right until the end, Inked Craving just left me craving more!
Paige, the youngest of the Montgomery's, has always wanted what the rest of her siblings and cousins have found, true love and she thought she had it with Colton but if you have read the other books in the series let's be honest you always knew he was going be a spinless little man, and that is what he turned out to be when he leaves Paige devasted with his bombshell announcement of moving to NY, and a month or so later when Paige finds out she is pregnant, he onces again proves what a slim ball he is, Paige knows her family will rally around her but the one person she is drawn to is Lee, her brothers best friend who becomes her rock, Paige has know interest in a relationship and Lee who lost both his parents when he was younger is happy with his single life, but with Paige all that goes out the window and he finds himself wanting to be the person that Paige turns to, as time goes on the pair grow close, but just as you think everything is going smoothly, Carrie Ann Ryan drops a twsit in the tail, one that has you back on the edge of your seat.
Inked Craving is Just brilliant and I for one can't wait for what comes next with a Montgomery I thought was settled.
February 26, 2022
This is book 4 in the Montgomery Ink:Fort Collins series. And while it could absolutely be read as a stand alone, I would read the previous books before this one as these characters are seen throughout. Paige's whole life is changing in ways that she wasn't expecting. But some of the best things came with that change. She thought she had her HEA and was going to get a proposal, but she ended up with her heartbroken and an unexpected gift. And she is alone to figure it all out. Or so she thinks. Lee is her brother's best friend, but he also is there for her no matter how much she tries not to rely on him. She thinks she has to do it on her own, and he knows that she can trust him to be by her side no matter what.
This is one of those stories that you wonder whether you will truly like or if it will leave you hanging. And (as usual with this author) this story in no way disappointed!! I loved how their relationship comes about. It's not insta-love or insta-lust, they truly have a friendship and care about each other and what they each need. Yes, sex is introduced but it isn't the heart of their relationship! There are so many more layers to them and I loved them all! I honestly love when a story can go from great friends to realizing that they are truly what each needs in order to be happy. It was beautiful!
This is one of those stories that you wonder whether you will truly like or if it will leave you hanging. And (as usual with this author) this story in no way disappointed!! I loved how their relationship comes about. It's not insta-love or insta-lust, they truly have a friendship and care about each other and what they each need. Yes, sex is introduced but it isn't the heart of their relationship! There are so many more layers to them and I loved them all! I honestly love when a story can go from great friends to realizing that they are truly what each needs in order to be happy. It was beautiful!
May 23, 2022
Paige and Lee - amazing
Paige is the baby of her branch of the Montgomery family. And when she's left alone and pregnant instead of engaged to her long time boyfriend, well she's not happy and neither are her siblings. Being protective what they really want to do is sting her ex up by his toes (or less pleasant places) but support their sister in her time of need.
One of the people helping Paige through her pregnancy is Lee Grier. He's been friends with her brothers for forever. And Paige and Lee have been friends but not as close as Lee and her brothers. That all changes when it comes out that she's pregnant and alone. Lee steps up to the plate to help her through the pregnancy.
But things begin to change between Lee and Paige the more time they spend together. Feelings develop for both of them, but can they get over their past hurts to get to their happily ever after?
You'll have to read the book to get all the answers and see if they get their happy ending. I can tell you this book is well worth the time and money to read it.
Carrie Ann Ryan is an excellent world builder with character development that is top notch. And the smexy times are smoking.
This is book 4 in the series but you don't need to read the previous books to read this one. It's a complete standalone. Although, I do recommend reading the other books for all the backstories.
Paige is the baby of her branch of the Montgomery family. And when she's left alone and pregnant instead of engaged to her long time boyfriend, well she's not happy and neither are her siblings. Being protective what they really want to do is sting her ex up by his toes (or less pleasant places) but support their sister in her time of need.
One of the people helping Paige through her pregnancy is Lee Grier. He's been friends with her brothers for forever. And Paige and Lee have been friends but not as close as Lee and her brothers. That all changes when it comes out that she's pregnant and alone. Lee steps up to the plate to help her through the pregnancy.
But things begin to change between Lee and Paige the more time they spend together. Feelings develop for both of them, but can they get over their past hurts to get to their happily ever after?
You'll have to read the book to get all the answers and see if they get their happy ending. I can tell you this book is well worth the time and money to read it.
Carrie Ann Ryan is an excellent world builder with character development that is top notch. And the smexy times are smoking.
This is book 4 in the series but you don't need to read the previous books to read this one. It's a complete standalone. Although, I do recommend reading the other books for all the backstories.
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