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Review

3.5 stars!

I don’t know why it’s taken me so long to read this book, but I’m so glad I finally got to it! A novella set at the end of the Second Circle Tattoos series, and just before the spin-off Preload series, this is a really sweet romance, and a great little read.

While you could read this as a standalone, be aware that you won’t know any of the side characters or their backstories, but it’s a great chance to meet the boys if you haven’t read either of these series yet.

Holly is a contestant on the tattoo artist reality show judged by Trent and Dred (which is a very nice tie-in). She’s the most talented artist on the show, and her dreams of reclaiming her career and righting wrongs from the past all hinge on her winning. Sadly, she doesn’t, but instead of wallowing, she picks herself up and accepts Dred’s offer to set up a marketing and social media plan for his band, Preload.

Meanwhile, Ryan is an up-and-coming music executive, and he’s gunning for the job of his dreams. To prove himself, he’s been given the challenge of managing Preload and getting them sorted out and turned around after their last Manager got them into big trouble and left them completely untethered. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime, and the last thing he needs is an inexperienced, quirky newcomer offering her opinions on the band’s marketing plan

Holly and Ryan are both work-orientated and determined to do the best possible job they can. They clash, of course, but they also find themselves wildly attracted to each other even though they are complete opposites. Holly is a bit of a free spirit who cherishes her individuality, and Ryan is tightly controlled workaholic with a stick up his butt. But despite their differences, their chemistry is electric, and as they begin to work together, their feelings for each other deepen.

“Don’t look at me like that, Hols.”
“Like what?”
“Like everything is possible.”

It’s a cute set-up, and I loved watching the dynamic shift and change between Holly and Ryan. It’s not all smooth sailing for them, but they are honest and open, they talk things through, and they deal with everything functionally and sensibly. It’s a pleasure to watch these two flirt and banter as they come together, and when they finally get there… holy damn. It’s hot, sexy and emotional, and I loved seeing them give in to it all.

The rest of the Preload boys feature prominently, and I loved getting the chance to see each of them in their early days before they find their happy endings. I’m suddenly feeling the need for a series re-read, and I’m freaking excited for it!

This is a great little read. Sweet, sexy and swoony, and I loved it.

3.5 stars.