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“I’m not a people person, but I’m also not an idiot. I know what it looks like when someone is trying their best to sabotage a good thing.”

Trinket’s affair is coming to a close. After living with boyfriend Zee and side piece Mini under one roof for weeks, his ability to play the game has finally hit a wall. It isn’t just guilt, and it isn’t just the impracticality of cheating on Zee right under his nose. It’s the fact that Zee and Mini actually seem to like each other.

Zee’s patience seems like it can hold out forever, his care for Trinket expanding to cover the abrasive tattoo artist. As Mini settles in as houseguest, he gets cozy with more than Zee’s credit card. The two of them talk art, kink, and baggage. Opening up comes alongside new opportunities in the bedroom, and the inevitable question of ‘What’s next?’

When the time comes, Trinket isn’t the only one finally forced to make a choice.

A Final Stroke is the follow-up to The Color of Need and is the seventh and FINAL book in the Taste of Ink series. It contains cheating, kinky sex, and potential triggers. It ends with a HEA.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 17, 2022

5 people are currently reading
121 people want to read

About the author

Daniel May

52 books642 followers
Daniel May writes MM romance and erotica with a focus on dark contemporary, kink, and BDSM. Originally a lover of sci-fi and fantasy, he turned his sights on the erotic as a joke that went over surprisingly well.

Completed series: The Taste of Ink (rereleased as A Fresh Taste of Ink trilogy)
Ongoing series: Hanged Men

Facebook group, the Daniel May Maelstrom:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/23035...

Sign up for the newsletter at danielmayauthor.com to receive free bonus content, news, and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks at upcoming works.-

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5 stars
77 (70%)
4 stars
24 (21%)
3 stars
7 (6%)
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2 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Aimora.
338 reviews70 followers
February 21, 2022
Update 2/20/22: Is it too soon for a series reread? Can't get my mind off of Trinket, Zee, and Mini.

Original 2/19/22:
What a perfect ending to what has to be the hottest series I have ever read. Taste of Ink was a series I had heard a lot about but didn't pick up initially because of the subject matter. I am so glad I tried it out and was introduced to Daniel May, now one of my favorite authors.

A Final Stroke picks up where #6 left off and gets right into the story, with Mini staying with Trinket and Zee. The three of them seem to click somehow; Mini's challenging nature and inquisitive personality; Trinket's intense feelings; Zee's protectiveness and need for control. I wasn't quite expecting the ending, but it made me tear up and my heart beat feel too big for my chest. Absolutely loved every minute of it.
Profile Image for Mia.
365 reviews
February 28, 2022
5 million stars

I am a tad overwhelmed right now, having just finished this book and having to say goodbye to this series. While I compose myself, I leave here a couple of appropriate gifs:







No, in all seriousness, I read Daniel May's newsletter recently where he explained that this series had not sold as well as he had expected because it doesn't meet the sterotypical canon for contemporary romance. Number one sin was the cheating theme. Second, the lack of alternating POV. But fuck that. Honestly. This has been such a wild journey of a series, and I could have honestly done with like another 7 books of Zee, Trinket and Mini.

This book was just such an amazing culmination of all the events from the previous books. And despite it being fucking hot, it was also so freaking tender!!! I was so surprised by the almost "vanilla" happy ending, thinking that the author was going to fuck us up and do something the inimaginable at the end and not get them all together. So thank you Daniel for giving us that. Or maybe not thank you - maybe give us a short story with an alternative fucked-up ending. Yes, it was a rollercoaster of emotions, , it was romantic in a filthy way that suited these three perfectly and in the end it was just one of the most beautiful love stories that I've read in a while, how they all took care of each other and put the other ones first.

I've bought every single book in this series, and honestly, I will buy it again if Daniel May decides to change the covers or whatever, because this series deserves all the praise in the world and way more recognition. Yeah, the cheating part may put some people off - but it's so worth it for that ending.
Profile Image for Szidi ☼.
946 reviews61 followers
February 21, 2022
Sad and happy at the same time while also horny?

First of all, the amount of cum that came out of this story was shocking and I'm glad I was chilling in a pool while reading the book, because damn. It was the hottest of all. And that's a big compliment, because for 7 book, every damn book was hotter than the one before. It's mind blowing how could Daniel write this many HOT and unique scenes while being sneaky and romantic.

This series is definitely one of my all time favorite. The starting point of Zee, Mini and Trinket's story, the cheating, it was so well written and with so much care. It's not you everyday cheating story, even if you don't like cheating in your romance (because let's be clear, who does love cheating?), this series is so much more and you definitely need to check it out. It's romantic, and it's hot and exciting with all of the sneaking around.

This book is the last in the series and this time our favorite threesome had time to figure their shit out. Everyone got their happy times, while Trinket got his thinking hat on: should he confess everyting to Zee, or just keep going on?

Loved Zee and Mini together, this book was mostly about their dynamic and how Mini could fit in their relationship. First as an outsider just watching them having sex, then a bit more... ;)

Really loved and enjoyed this one, and the ending. Wow, I didn't see that coming. I had my theory, but it was so much better this way. And the HEA, aww. Perfect. I love Mini and Zee together the best, they are just so adorable. Our slutty slut Trinket is unique and lovely, and love how dirty his mind is, but Mini with Zee, oh my heart!

Loved, loved loved this series and I'm really sad it's over. It was the hottest rollercoaster of all times. Please Daniel, write more like this.
Profile Image for Natalie.
334 reviews3 followers
February 19, 2022
Oh my goodness. This is a stunning ending to this rollercoaster of a series. Any questions you may have had in earlier books are all answered here.
It’s so much better than I anticipated.
I know that some people are not liking the idea of this series because cheating is involved but please please give it a chance.
By the end it’s beautiful.
The writing is top quality - there’s a real story here - behind all the steamy scenes there are great characters who each have a personality of their own. They develop so much throughout the series. I am slightly obsessed with the series to be honest. They are characters that stay with you long after the book is closed.
It’s 5 sparkly stars from me for the whole series. Highly recommend this and everything else by this author who is a natural at putting words on a page.
Profile Image for Mariansen.
393 reviews17 followers
February 19, 2022
Not sure where to start with my review of this book, I loved it! And I’m finding it hard to write a proper review, cause I’m in love with these men and I’m a bit emotional it’s over! I can’t believe it’s over.

This series was my first meeting with Daniel May, and I fell in love with the way he writes. It’s uncomplicated, colourful and fascinating. He tell things like it is, and the characters have flaws and isn’t perfect. I love that! Together they end up being just right for each other. I adore the way these men sees sides to the others that they don’t see themselves.

This book had so many layers, and the emotional side of the story took me by surprise. I’ve been heartbroken and a bit afraid to continue, not sure what the ending would be for the 3 of them. The way Daniel wrote their story was perfection! Trinket, Zee and Mini have a way to go, and it’s not an easy way. They have to talk! And figure each other out!

Zee hasn’t always been my favourite guy, but I love him in this book! The way he sees Mini and the way he loves Trinket!!! Swoon!!! He just takes control and helps them figure things out.

There are some delicious, dirty and sizzling scenes in this story as well, and I would be disappointed if it wasn’t. Cold showers are required!

The ending was perfect as well! Just what I’ve been hoping for. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I don’t think I’m alone in wanting this ending for them. A big THANK YOU to the author for writing this story!!!!
Profile Image for Soda.
385 reviews
February 26, 2022
A Taste Of Ink

This review is for all seven books.

Daniel May has produced a standout series here.. so much so that I only finished the final instalment 30 minutes ago and I’m suffering withdrawals already.

How do I go on, knowing there is no more Trinket, Zee and Mini?

I found this series before books 5,6&7 were even published.. the wait for every next instalment was f**king excruciating and I envy anybody starting right now who can just smash it all out in one go!

It definitely was not a traditional a MM romance but I absolutely loved every complicated, morally questionable word.

Daniel is obviously super talented, I’ve read all of his other Kindle content and for me, he is a ‘must read’.
I can’t wait to see what’s next!!

I do have one teeny-tiny thing to add - and let me be clear here: this is all about MY wants and needs. Daniel..
I am not done yet.
I’m utterly insatiable for this series and I just want more.
I want more, more, more, more…
I really neeeed some bonus scenes.. c’mon Daniel..
Pleaseeeeeeeee 🔥
Profile Image for Miruru Shouting.
1,032 reviews2 followers
March 6, 2022
SPOILERS AHEAD!!!

Best book in the series. This was everything I had hoped for and more, and finalllyyyyyyyyyyy got what I wanted. Though I wished the epilogue was longer and it included another scene with the three of them, or something about the marriage? It was hinted at with the glint of 2 rings on Trinket's left hand but I wanted to read how that went down, also the proposal and everything. I need more of Zee, Mini, and Trinket moments together (both in and out of bed). I loved them interacting outside and bonding over running errands or whatever too.

I loved the slow build of how they first kept Mini on the edge and then incorporated Mini into their "relationship" (cough sex cough). I loved seeing Zee bond with Mini and Mini falling for Zee. The story is told from 3rd person but mostly from Trinket's POV so it was hard to gauge both Zee and Mini's thoughts for most of the series since we're reading all of Trinket's worries, insecurities, and thoughts. I liked the final chapter before the epilogue where everything was cleared up. That was a plot twist I didn't see coming but OMG still so good.

I loved everything about this book. It was so sexy but played with my feelings and at the same time maintaining plot! The dirty talk was also TOP NOTCH! This was a beautiful final book but I wished there were more. Like if Zee's coworkers/office knows he has two partners, and if they invited his "rival" Francois Ng to the wedding lol Francois Ng is also great comedy relief, I always laugh whenever he shows up haha (Sidenote: I loved all the Chinese representation with the Ng, Li, Gao surnames! The only time I recall seeing so many asian names was in Mary Calmes' "Change of Heart" series, so it always gets me giddy to see asian representation anywhere.)

Thank you Daniel May for writing this beautiful amazing series! I will be rereading this series forever and ever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for 【Stars at Dawn】.
224 reviews2 followers
February 25, 2022
Scoville Heat Rating: 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵10/10

Too bad you have to read the first 6 novels to get to this point #sorrynotsorry.😈

Despite the ongoing theme of perfection/imperfection throughout this series, I cannot stress how flawless this final instalment to the A Taste of Ink Series is. It's SEXY.. like SO sexy... and EMOTIONAL... SO emotional. I don't know how I'll ever recover from this. Daniel May has officially sky rocketed to my #1 MM author for this series alone, but please do not hesitate to check out his other works because they are also A++.
514 reviews
February 25, 2022
This! This is what I’ve wanted for this series for so long. There’s an honesty to all the characters that comes out for each of them, but my favorite of all? Zee. I was hoping the story would take this direction, because I was less likely to believe it any other way.

I’m looking forward to the expanded ending that will eventually come out, but I feel like this is neatly tied up. Trinket has his say in the epilogue and I think his thoughts and musings make it perfect.
Profile Image for Carolina.
172 reviews11 followers
February 23, 2022
I fucking loved it. Every single book of these series. I don't even know how to put in words how much I like this. It was awesome and I'm a bit sad it's over. I love these three idiots and I'm happy that they could finally find their happiness. Daniel May can definitely write a story that punch you in your face and be a caress at the same time.

I definitely will read this story again now it's complete.
883 reviews4 followers
March 2, 2022
This is the ending I was hoping for and more! These three have kept us on our toes with more twists and turns than a roller coaster and I couldn’t have been more satisfied with the ending! Stellar series - sexy, hotter than you can imagine and absolute perfection! Thank you Daniel May!!!
Profile Image for Jono George.
Author 2 books
March 9, 2022
Can't believe it's over. I want to keep all 3 with me forever ❤. Loved this series.
Thank you!!!!!
Profile Image for Trish Skywalker.
1,081 reviews64 followers
May 13, 2022
I received this ARC from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review
The finale of Trinket, Zee, and Mini’s story.
Thus book was more emotional than the previous two, and I was really glad we got to see more of who Mini and Zee are, not just in relation to Trinket. I really loved Zee in this book, he’s not only more complicated than I originally thought but also much more kind. The depths he’s willing to go to for Trinket are astounding, and he’s so full of love it made me cry.
Mini is equally as complicated, and though he’s very experienced in bed, there’s other ways that he’s completely out of his element and he struggles with that. Emotions are difficult for him, especially when he’s forced to feel them.
Trinket was the biggest dichotomy in this book; in some ways growing exponentially and in other ways digging his heels in. He remains strong in his convictions and knows what his heart wants.
I loved that Daniel May didn’t shy away from the rough topics in these books. There were times while reading these where I felt anxious, sad, happy, conflicted…but so many feelings. It’s not every book that makes you feel so much, and want the characters to be okay so badly.
It was fascinating to watch these men interact, grow, and change with each other and on their own.
Profile Image for Reed.
1,204 reviews21 followers
May 1, 2022
Where do I start now that I’ve finished this series. Just WOW. I read too much, yet I’ve never read another series like this. I like good books and have only a few triggers. Let me say that this story has a few triggers but after reading the whole series they were all needed. There is cheating and it takes forever before guilt really becomes an issue. There are relationships, again not like I’ve run across before. Each character is broken in their own way, yet when put together they somehow fit. This is due to the skill this author shows for meshing together a good story and completely different personalities. The only problem I have is I don’t feel like I really got a good background on these guys. Whatever has been their lives to bring them on this journey. I think this is a excellent series and one that will leave me thinking about if for a long time. I hope as this author becomes more known he will write more in this type story.
Profile Image for EvilCherub loves badass fems hates most YA fic..
39 reviews2 followers
April 6, 2023
A fantastic conclusion to a hot, twisted, surprisingly sweet story of kink, guilt, cheating, and people that really need therapy.

I found this mini-series accidentally while trolling for good smut. Started reading and realised I was into a boy on boy tale. As a Hetero-ish girl I don't read much boy smut but this gripped me immediately. It was genuinely naughty and taboo with the cheating and it was engrossing. I read all of the 7 novelas that make up the series in a span of maybe 4 days total.

As I read I got more and more invested in the characters and their emotions, even as the hot, kinky sex kept me turning the pages. Honestly the best erotica story I have read in so long I can't remember. Raw, real, twisted, uncertain. And Hoooot!

Only thing that would have made this book better for me is perhaps a few more scenes between Mini and Zee. Or one where they talk about the cig Burns mini has.

Really great, surprisingly heart-warming romp!
Profile Image for Tabby.
177 reviews36 followers
January 20, 2023
So this is for the whole series.

Wow. The dynamics explored in these books is engaging and so relatable. Trinket's unresolved trauma with Zee, the lack of guilt he often feels even when he knows he is doing something wrong, the continuing love and affection they all have for each other. *chef's kiss*

It isn't often I find myself relating so much to a romance book character but Trinket was like looking at myself a few years ago. It was healing to go through his journey and I loved him, Mini and Zee equally by this book. I'm glad I got the ending I wanted as well.

It would be 5* however there is a lot of sex, like so much, and it was a bit too overwhelming for me. I would have liked to see some more nonsexual interactions between them all.
Profile Image for CAROLINA.
343 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2022
The last part of the series couldn't be more perfect. Daniel May gave me the ending I didn't know I wanted, and he did so with great talent. The writing is as smooth as always, the characters come to life, the story unfolds, and we see more to each character to add to everything we had in the previous parts. Zee plays a special role this time and I was so glad for that because he was such a mystery I wanted to solve.

I don't want to give too much away and spoil the story, but if you had issues before with the cheating and the lying, think again before you give up on these guys. The ending is so worth it!

Profile Image for Maniyun.
160 reviews
September 23, 2023
Love it just becuase of Zee and his relationship with Mini
2 reviews
December 14, 2023
This series is just amazing! Read all the books in four days and now i wish i could read it all again for the first time
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

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