Rigid

Whiskey Run: Savage Ink #3

by Hope Ford

Women don’t stay... no matter how much you love them.
And I can’t chance it with her... because when she leaves me... I wouldn’t survive it.

I’m not a nice guy. I don’t even try to be.
I take what I want and then I move on.
I never thought about having a wife and kids...
Until I met Emily.

She makes me want things I know I shouldn’t.
So I’m mean to her. I’m not proud of it, but it is what it is.
But I can’t ignore her when she needs me.
I have to take care of her... I need her safe.

Now all I have to do is fight the temptation because I know she’ll never really be mine... not forever. And that’s all I want... Emily—forever.

Rigid is the third book in the Whiskey Run: Savage Ink series. If you love reading about emotionally wounded men and the women that help them overcome their past, then you’ll love Dawson and Emily’s story.

Genres: Romance, Novella, Small Town Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Contemporary Romance, Fiction, Adult

108 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2021

About the author

Bestselling short romance author Hope Ford writes short, steamy, sweet romances.  She loves writing about ALPHA MEN that fall in love with CURVY WOMEN.  She has over 70 books and they are all available on Amazon.

Website:
www.authorhopeford.com
Email:
authorhopeford@gmail.com
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/authorhopeford
Facebook Group:
www.facebook.com/hopeford
Join my mailing list:
http://www.authorhopeford.com/subscribe
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/authorhopeford/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorHopeFord
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/authorhopeford/

Reviews

[ellie · Rating 2 out of 5]

“hot seed” + “lady juices” = me losing my ever loving mind🥲

with an honourable mention to: “ready to sink deep into her honey hole.”

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 - "I can't breathe when you're around... I can't work, I can't do anything because all I think about is you..." Stars!

I only finished reading the previous two books in this series (Virile & Torrid) last week and I absolutely adored both of them so I was eager to read Rigid.

The author gave you a little hint at Dawson and Emily towards the end of Torrid, and I have to say she delivered. If you are familiar with Hope's writing these stories are quick and spicy reads, perfect for a lunch hour or if you are looking for a little me-time and you are always gtd a HEA.

Cannot wait for more from the Whiskey Run Universe!

ARC generously provided by the author, via Booksprout in exchange for the above honest review.

[*CJ* · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Rigid" is the story of Emily and Dawson.

A scarred but protective hero tries to push the heroine away, but the truth comes out and his love is revealed in this short novella. It was pretty enjoyable despite its size.

Safe
4/5

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

“No. No, I’m not okay. I can’t breathe when you’re around, not without smelling that damn flowery perfume you use. My house even smells like it now. I can’t work, I can’t do anything because all I think about is you.”

Another Hope Ford masterpiece. If you haven’t checked out her two different Whiskey Run series, well I just don’t know what you’re waiting for. Love yourself and pick up these books! I think I’m going to have to move there with the number of Alpha men who love their curvy women.

Dawson was so damaged that I just wanted to wrap him up in a hug. Emily is just the girl to break down his defenses and convince him her’s worthy and that she’ll stay.

[atomickitten · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd give it a 10 if I could...

ABSOLUTELY SWOONWORTHY!



I think it's safe to say it's one of the best novellas I've ever read.

We have enemies to lovers here.
No insta anything which I appreciated greatly.
A-mah-zing chemistry between our mcs, Emily and Dawson.
It is a bit ott, true, but it's all good and I'm a real sucker for a hero who is broody and secretly loves the heroine from afar.

And when I realized that Dawson was actually really lonely and was craving a happy life with Emily, he was just way too scared of being abandoned?

I think my uterus just skipped a beat.

I freaking loved it!!!
The longing, the possessive side of Dawson, the fantastic heroine who wasn't afraid to fight for their happiness.
Everything here was exactly what I wanted.

The only 'but' I have is the cover that I'm not a fan of.
But everything else is just deliciously good.

Highly recommend!

[Ꭿຖᥲ·♡ ྀི · Rating 2 out of 5]

2✯

°Non virgin heroine (25 y/o)
°Experienced hero
°Switching POVs
°Neither with others after meeting
°Unwanted attention from 2 OW -not exes
°No OM drama
°He pushed her away
°No separation
°No cheating or scenes with OP
°Epilogue: 1 year later married with a baby on the way

[Katie Utterly Unashamed · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was just okay. I liked Emily and I loved the potential of this story, but I needed a better reason for Dawson being such a dick. Or at least more of a reveal.

In the end, these are quick and easy novellas. They will help get you out of a funk or just help melt the day away so you can sleep with ease.



Instagram | My

[Nikki'J' · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Whiskey Run series of books are great. They are quick reads with instant love and a HEA. But there is always a bump in the road to overcome. The men are all alpha and protective of their women. If you enjoy all that then any of the Whiskey Run books are for you.

Dawson is an ass. He's grumpy and sullen and doesn't talk much. He's the one thing Emily doesn't like about working at Savage Ink. She's pretty sure he hates her. But she can't deny that she is attracted to him. She just has to get over it because there is no way he would ever look at her without contempt.

Emily is everything that Dawson could want. He's never thought of getting a family and life it's just not something he ever thought he was allowed to have. People leave and if he lost Emily he wouldn't survive it. So instead of going after what he wants he pushes her away.

When Emily goes to collect a drunk Dawson he can't stop his instinct to kiss her and while she gets him home to bed he spills his secrets. Now she just has to figure out how she can use those secrets to get through to him. They could be something special if he'd only give them a chance.

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love

Emily can't believe the way Dawson treats her. When she picks him up drunk and he starts talking everything starts to make sense. Can she get him to live in the moment and not let the past keep love from his life?

[WhiskeyandReading · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved this couple.

[A-reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

My reviews always contain spoilers, I write them so I can remember the story.

Emily was down on her luck until Violet and Josh help her out, they help get her car fixed and a job at Savage Ink. She works well with Trey and Aiden, it’s Dawson that’s giving her trouble, she feels a powerful attraction to him but it’s obvious that he doesn’t like her. He’s a major asshole to her constantly. He’s fighting his attraction to her and uses bad behavior to keep her away. When he was a kid his mom left, this caused his dad to turn to alcohol, he lost both parents and never recovered from it. So even though he wants Emily he knows she won’t stay and that will crush him. When he again starts a brawl at the local bar Emily has to go get him this time, when she arrives, he kisses her in front of everyone. She takes his drunk butt home where she hears him mumbling about wanting her but afraid she will not stay. She realizes he does have feelings for her and she decides to pursue him. He’s a little shocked at first but then he’s all in. Their first time together is sexy and after he asks her to stay, with some persuasion from Emily to open up. They socialize with the other guys and their women, he finally feels settled. Epilogue one year later with them expecting and in love.

[Raven61 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars!

This is the third story in the Savage Ink spin-off of the Whiskey Run series. While it can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend both series be read in publication date order for maximum reader satisfaction. There are some reoccurring characters, including the town matchmaker and diner owner, Violet.

Just like the original series, these series are also very fast reads, with a surprising amount of detail built in. I just love series that have multiple contributions / branches, as the continuity really breathes life into everything … plus it is good to see Violet still play a part in the spin-off. 🥰

I mention the following for readers such as myself that visualize the story as it is read, because errors interrupt the flow. I only noticed a couple of grammatical issues with a missing word and (maybe) an inconsistent name. As to the name, it could be he called him a shortened version (Pete vs Peter), but I highlighted it because I couldn’t be sure. I uploaded my notes to goodreads for anyone interested.

⛔️ Contains scenes that may be a trigger or offensive for sensitive readers. These include adult language; adult intimate scenes; child neglect, etc.

Here is how the story begins:

Emily was leaving Jasper when she broke down on the highway about a month ago. As luck would have it, Violet and her husband, Josh, stopped to check on her. Not sure why exactly, but they took it upon themselves on helping her. Violet recommended her for the job at Savage Ink working with Aiden and Trey. All is great except for one thing … Dawson.

He is an A$$hole, no other word for how he acts. He is so grumpy and growly, but the sound of his voice still makes her body react. Violet wants her to try and be open-minded about him, that there are reasons he is the way he is, but it is not her story to share … So Emily tries to be more open and friendly to him.

Dawson knows he is grumpy. He wears it, owns it, and uses it to keep people away, especially Emily. The things that happens to him, the way his body reacts, it should be illegal. Just the sound of her voice makes him react like a teenage boy, so he does his best to stay away from her. Unfortunately it is just not possible when she is working towards her piercing certification, and needs someone to oversee her work. This means that he routinely has Emily complete his piercing appointments, depending on whether or not it is on a man, and depending on what he wants pierced …

Most nights Dawson goes down to The Whiskey Whistler and has a few beers, or more, to relax and try to forget (or distance himself) from Emily and work. Any more, that usually involves getting in fights or him breaking something. Malcolm, the owner, then has to call the shop for someone to come and get him. This time though, Malcolm threatens to call the police. Aiden and Trey are both busy with clients and there isn’t anyone else available, so Emily agrees to go.

When she arrives and enters the bar, Emily finds Dawson standing with a chair up in the air. Not sure what comes over her, she walks towards him and tells him to put the chair down … he does, but then he turns, gets ahold of her arms and kisses her … right in the middle of The Whistler … where everyone can see …

[Lady Raven RAVE! · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.85⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


Style: Tattoo Insta Romance
Story: 3.85/5
Enjoyment: 3.85/5
Dark Level: 0/5
Sexual Level: OK- GOOD
Triggers: Bo
Violence: No
Male: Sexy, Moody & Grumpy
Series: Book 3
Pages: loc. 896
Audio: N/A
Kindle Unlimited: Yes

STORY:
I really enjoy this quick Insta romance and 3rd installment of Whiskey Run: Savage Ink. Dawson was a grumpy and moody guy, but most of it stems from his want for Emily. This insta romance was all about the build up for me and I like it and how it played out. Emily got along with everyone, excluding Dawson. She gets the impression that he hates her, until she heard his confession and went after what she wanted.


SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
I think for this story, the sex was ok to good. I still very much enjoyed the chemistry once it started to build.


SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
I liked seeing the couples from books one and two. It was brief but likable. We got to see a quick and brief interaction with Carter and Janie and I am very much look forward to reading their story.



OVERALL:
A quick and likable read. I enjoyed getting to know this town(s) the author has created and connecting her characters. It’s a light and sexy read.



✰✰TRIGGERS:


****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The addition starts with the book cover….yeah…yeah…yeah don’t judge a book by its cover they say ….well we all do it and this one here it is the scratch to your itch or better yet the filling to your oreos! Within the first chapters you get the panoramic view of whom you’re dealing with! This is book is part of the Whiskey Run: Savage Ink series why just read one when you can start at the beginning and keep reading through the series it won’t be a waste of time. Dawson sexy as all get out tattoo artist working at Savage Ink, extremely difficult childhood so a very broken man and the pain from his childhood will not allow people in because the pain of them walking away is too much. Emily smart, working at Savage Ink as piercing apprentice, and wonders why Dawson hates her so. Dawson doesn’t hate Emily however, being around her makes him feel things he has never felt before and the harder he tries to stay away from her the more he wants to be around her. The chemistry is insanely intense and they can’t ignore the magnetic pull even if they tried but will she accept Dawson with his troubled past, can he forgive himself/overcome the demons he fights every day, and can he finally have a little mental peace and happiness?

[Rebecca Grove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily loves her new job working at Savage Ink. She came to town down on her luck. Her car broke down outside of town and she was rescued by a couple, Violet and Josh. Not only did they arrange for a tow, they provided her a place to stay and a job at Savage Ink. She loves almost allher co-workers and getting the chance to work on her licensing for piercing. The one negative is working with Dawson. She is very attracted to him and he is constantly avoiding her. Emily does her best to interest Dawson but he is constantly running hot and cold. Then one night her car breaks down again so Dawson offers her a ride home. When he overhears some of her neighbors talking about breaking in and having their way with , he insists that Emily stay with him for the night.

Dawson used to love his job but he seems to be getting burnt out. He has had a bad experience with people in his life walking out on hip. He is so attracted to Emily that he pushes her away harder . He doesn't want her to break his heart but he can't turn his back on her when she is being threatened. Will Dawson keep protecting his heart or will he give Emily a chance?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Judy Gittleson Hendrickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson and Emily have had to deal with a lot in their backstories, which explains how they treat each other at first. The first time they actually talk is when her car dies and he takes her home..... and then to his place where she will be safe. Emily does not get it straight in her mind until Dawson is drunk one night at the bar and she is the only one who can take him home, where she hears he say some of the things that bother him so badly. Now a new respect grows between them.
The characters are terrific, with so much feeling and intense emotions. Knowing the backstories, you can see the hurt in them and how they deal with it. The storyline is a roller coaster ride of drama, danger, miscommunication, detailed planning by Emily, and a romance that turns so deep. Loved the way he cared for her even though he could not say it out loud, like the car and apartment. I really loved her scheme about the piercing, too. Terrific feels and vibes from this story. Can not wait to read about others in the group.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Thisbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

*spoilers* Emily has had a rough life and with help from her friend started working at savage ink. She likes everyone besides Dwason, who is not very nice to her, also she more than liked him in the beginning. hen everybody tells her he had it rough and he is not a prick, she tries being nice to him. He rescues and helps her, but pushes her away with his behavior again. Then she learns why he acts ths way and that he is already falling hard for her, but afraid of getting hurt. She knows she has to act, when she wants him. Can Emily show him, that not every woman acts like he has learned in the past and will he give this love a real chance?
I could not stop reading this story, the plot is great. You meet characters from other books, but you do not need to have read them to love this story, also it adds to the appeal for me. I felt for both Dawson and Emily and loved the ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

We finally get Dawson's story and it was worth the wait! Dawson's had a tragic childhood that has scarred him deeply. Emily starts working at Savage Ink thanks to a recommendation from Violet she handles the front desk and is doing her apprenticeship to be a piercer. Dawson is attracted to her immediately and Emily feels the attraction too but he won't act on it and he goes out of his way to avoid her. When he is around her he acts very gruff and is so abrupt with her due to the demons he's fighting from his childhood. Something finally happens that forces him to really see Emily and to spend some time with her. Will that be enough to finally rid him of his demons? I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. I will say that you definitely need to read this book it's a wonderful story!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikki_Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful quick read with no break-up. Amazing book! A wonderful HEA to add.

Emily gets a job at Savage Ink where she meets Dawson, who is one of the tattoo artist. Dawson and Emily don't get along at first, but it's because they both have an attraction to one another. When Emily's car won't start Dawson takes her home only to bring her back to his house because of where she lives, he couldn't allow her to stay there another night. Dawson goes out drinking one night only to have the bartender call Savage Ink and request someone pick him up. Aiden and Treyton are busy giving tattoos to clients so Emily must go and pick up Dawson. When Emily finds Dawson at the bar he kisses her and the sparks fly. Emily then takes Dawson to his home and when she puts him to bed he is rambling about why he can't be with Emily. So Emily finds a way to show Dawson how much she loves him. Dawson finally realizes Emily is the one and they both get a wonderful HEA!

[Hanna Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book number 3 in the Whiskey Run: Savage Ink series and focuses on Dawson and Emily. Dawson had a lot of deep rooted pain stemming from his childhood and it affected his ability to let people in. If you dont let them in, then they cant hurt you by leaving. Emily is the only one he can see a future with, but refuses to take the step because he is terrified of the pain her leaving would cause him. I loved how Emily put herself out there and they both stripped their guards down and went after what they both so desperately wanted and needed. Emily was absolutely perfect for Dawson and it was great how she helped mend and heal his broken heart. This was a an absolutely great story! You definitely wont be left disappointed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson is not an easy guy, he gruff and short with most people, Emily thinks he does not like her as he always seems angry with her. Dawson is attracted to her and trying stay away from her as that only leads to heartache. One nigh her gets drunk and causes a ruckus at the bar and the guys tell Emily to go and Dawson kisses her and divulges additional information.

Emily is still trying to earn experience to obtain her license. The guys sending her to get Dawson at the bar was enlightening. This story is filled with so many emotions, heartache, love, and chemistry which all leads to a steamy story and is a page turner. The character as so likable that you want everything to work out for them. I keep up on all of Hope’s new books and I would highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suzanne Houser · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in Hope Ford's awesome Whiskey Run: Savage Ink series is Rigid - and I thought I couldn't love this series anymore until I read Dawson and Emily's story! Emily has been working at Savage Ink for months, helped out by Violet and her husband when she was in dire straits. Dawson is a tattoo artist and piercer at the shop - and has spent Emily's entire tenure being a jerk to her. When the two finally learn more about the other and their respective circumstances, it isn't long before the walls come down and they give in to their very mutual attraction. Dawson and Emily have chemistry in spades and are imperfectly perfect for one another, and their story is a steamy and emotional page-turner you won't be able to put down. Can't wait for the next title in this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melly Gem · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmmm, this was ok. At least it took them some time to get somewhere.
But seriously, are these 30 year old men in their teens. How are they getting erections every 5 minutes because a girl smiles or talks to them.. learn to control yourself, Gees.
And of course, another baby boy named after the dad 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄 Come on!
At least they had a year to get there (but of course, it was due to struggling to get pregnant, not just because they want to be the 2 of them)
Everyone in this town just wants babies and married after a week. it's so stupid.
What harm is it if they waited 6 months to get engaged and plan a wedding. And then wait a bit before starting a family.
More detail would have been nice around their past. And did Emily finish her piercing stuff or just drop it because you know she met a man 🤔🙄
It doesn't hurt to add a sentence here and there with some detail, even in a novella.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson and Emily both work at Savage Ink and Emily is convinced Dawson hates her. The reality is that Dawson is drawn to her in ways he's never felt before but because of his past he refuses to go there. Once we learn about his past my heart hurt for him right along with Emily. I love how Emily reacted when she learned the truth about Dawson's grumpy ways. In order for them to move forward and for Dawson to see the future they could have Emily had to put herself out there. I admired how Emily handled everything and how she was able to help Dawson heal so they could have their HEA. I think they are my favorite Whiskey Ink couple. I'm looking forward to Carter and Janie's story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Dawson and Emily are so made for each other! Both are from dysfunctional families, with a capital "D". So they both think relationships aren't for them, especially Dawson.

Dawson works at Savage Ink as both a tattoo artist and a piercer. Emily works there as receptionist while she works at her apprenticeship to become a piercer.

Dawson is always scowling and being rude to Emily. Emily doesn't understand why he's being rude to her.

If I say much more this won't be a spoiler free review! Suffice it to say that Dawson and Emily are perfect for each other and this book is a definite must read! Loved it!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review. This story has enough sparks flying to set it on fire. Dawson is a self proclaimed ass and it really shows around Emily. With her working at Savage Ink, she threatens all his feelings and he rubs her wrong on almost a daily basis. They both have instances of being protective of each other and the walls been them start falling. No one, except maybe Violet, saw this relationship coming. I enjoyed their story. I think it was the best in the series because how could you not fall for Dawson and his grumpy butt. Emily is just the type of strong and loving woman he needs.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[casvec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson has a few abandonment issues that has him guarding his hard tight. The day Emily started at Savage Ink, Dawson struggled with keeping himself in check. Emily was warned that Dawson could be a bit to handle, but to her he was even more so. Even though Dawson was short with her, she still have a hard time fighting her attractions.

The tension and chemistry between Dawson and Emily is off the charts. Dawson spends his days fighting his feeling, wants and desires, it is only when Emily is willing to take a chance that he lets down the walls. Rigid is a great addition to the series with electric connection, hot passion and an intense Alpha that will have you melting in your seat.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Char · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawson has always loved working at Savage Ink doing tattoos and piercings. When Emily starts working the front desk and working on her piercing certificate it changes how Dawson feels about work. Dawson is attracted to Emily and doesn’t understand his body. He doesn’t know what to do? He doesn’t know how to handle it. He has never had these feelings and desires for anyone before. He is very abrupt and gives short answers when she is around. Emily thinks Dawson hates her. She is very attracted to Dawson but does not try to pursue it. There is a fine line between hate and love - which will it be? Entertaining story well worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

First things first; I like the cover of this book!
Rigid is the third book in the ‘’whiskey run; savage ink’’ series. This story is short, fast paced and an enjoyable read. I read this book in one sitting and was satisfied throughout. I found the writing style easy to follow, the characters likeable and the storyline enjoyable. Emily is attracted to her jerk of a boss. Will she get the man she wants or will she walk away?
The chemistry between Emily and Dawson is clear to see and I liked them together. I loved that Emily saw Dawson’s issues and made the move.
I liked the ending and the epilogue for this story.
The storyline for this book is easy to follow and it is an enjoyable read. I look forward to more books from this series.

[Jacinda Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawson & Emily

We meet a forever troubled Dawson who just can't get past a childhood misdeed.
We have previously met Emily but we get more of her story with an orphan and young girl trying to live her life and falling into a tattoo shop that all the men want to protect her.

This is a nice story; just with the way each of the other guys are willing to help Emily out but Dawson won't let anyone else.

When she finally finds out from his drunken words all the power is in her hands.

Again there are the say grammatical mistakes like all previous books and I wish Hope's scenes were longer.

I enjoy the way Hope writes her scenes because they are romantic, discriptive but also a slight possession in them from these small town country men.