Harper has a history that has left just as many scars on the outside as on the inside but she makes a fateful decision when she goes to Trent for a tattoo. He’s fantastic – patient, understanding and sexy as can be. As the two get to know each other, he helps her address more than just how she looks. He helps her learn how to let others close again, to realize that she’s got value, and that maybe she can do more than just survive. She’s fabulous in her own right – strong, caring and hot. She just needed a little help realizing how much strength she’s been hiding. I loved the care that Trent shows as he draws her out bit by bit and gets her to really look at herself in a new way.

Of course, things can’t go smoothly for them. Besides some angst stemming from their baggage – of course, he’s not perfect so he’s got some as well – they also have to deal with ghosts from Harper’s past coming back for a visit. It gets emotional as they deal with everything that life throws their way, but they handle it together (mostly, because where would the fun be if they didn’t have some downs to go with the ups?).

If this is what Cole can give readers on her first time out, I cannot wait to see what she delivers next … and next … and again in book 4.

(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)