Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Dare (Brothers of Ink and Steel, #1) written by Allie Juliette Mousseau (258 pgs) – finished reading 2/7/15 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance


One woman running with her child from abuse that was not supposed to happen. While a man is in constant pain due to a past split-second decision that changed the course of his young life. These two meet under distressing circumstances, and they’re both attracted to each other. Sophie has not had an easy life. No family to speak of. And, an abusive husband who is out for blood. But, she has her daughter, Charlie, who means the world to her. Josh is a mixed martial arts title holder who works as a firefighter on the side. He’s one awesome male! And, everyone loves him. With a hugely supportive family, and a reputation of being a man-whore, life seems perfect for the beautifully tattooed hottie. But, looks are not everything, and Josh has guilt and regret always in the back of his mind. As the two get to know each and eventually fall in love, it’s the secrets and Sophie’s inability to commit that finally rips them apart. Do they stand a chance to find their way back to each other? And, will Sophie finally trust Josh with her child, her life, and her heart?

This was one quick read. Action, both intimately and suspensefully, were apparently present from the very beginning. Sophie is a survivor. She’s both strong and courageous, and would do anything to protect her daughter. She’s scared, and who could blame her when she’s been looking over her shoulder for the past few years as she keeps one step ahead of a maniac that swears he will kill her and take her child. And, then there’s Josh. Sweet and caring beautifully sculpted, Josh! With those glorious tattoos and that handsome smile, who wouldn’t be caught under his spell?? And, his family is just so supportive and protective. Always there for him every step of the way. When Josh finally tells Sophie his story, she couldn’t help but feel for him. He’s a very passionate man. His actions come from his heart. But, most of all he was seriously devoted to Sophie and her child. Would he understand her story or would he dispise her when he eventually finds out the truth?

Both characters had painful pasts, but they needed each other. Sophie had to realize that not all men couldn’t be trusted. She had to let her guard down somewhat to let Josh in to see the real “Sophie”. The fun and affectionate “Sophie”. Not just the scared and cautious “Sophie”. And, when Josh really got to know her, it was beautifully romantic. Desirous. Intimate. I loved the suspense in the book. I was basically on the edge of my seat not knowing when the climax was going to appear and have both main characters come to their breaking point. Loved both Sophie and Josh along with cute little Charlie too. Her addition just strengthened the meaning of family. So looking forward to spending more time with the guys from Ink and Steel!! This was a great start to a new series that had me engrossed from page one!!
  
“I’m scared, Dad,” I confess before I get into that car to leave the only home I know. “What if I’m so lost, I can’t find myself ever again?”

He puts an arm around my shoulders and moves in close. “Don’t let the fear defeat you, Josh. We all fall apart, and we all love ourselves in this life. You’ve got to dare to push through the fear. You’ve got to dare to find the broken pieces and put yourself back together. And when you can’t find all the pieces, you have to dare to be stronger, so new ones can grow in their place. That’s when you’ll find your true self and be whole again.”  ~ Josh and His Dad (Chap. 1)

“Do the thing you fear the most.” Mark Twain ~ Josh’s tattoo (Chap. 2)

And Wow! THAT IS ONE MOUTH-WATERING COVER!!!;)

Review Written, 2/11/15

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