Insightful and perfectly messy, the book and plotting mirror the lives of the two main characters, Uma and Ivan, and their attempts to find a way to move on and forward.  

Uma had a horrible relationship and ran from her ex Joey, but the need to run from her abuser, combined with 2 fortuitous (or so she thought) advertisements landed her in nowheres-ville, as companion and helpmate to Mrs. Lloyd, a cantankerous and darkly humorous old woman who seems to offer a devil’s bargain, and a tattoo removal clinic that works out financial arrangements for abuse victims.  Tucked away in this little town, with no friends and fewer leads to find her, Uma has started to find a ‘safe’ space to exist.  

And then there is Ivan, recently out of prison and neighbor to Mrs. Lloyd.  While he appears to be all broody, dark and dangerous, Ivan has a heart of gold, always bringing in and healing the strays he encounters, and Uma strikes him as one of those strays who needs him. 

Both of these characters have pasts: although Uma’s is more dramatic, you can’t help but feel for Ivan and his struggles. And just as he is believing he could, can and does provide Uma with something, she starts to retreat, throwing his own plans into tumult.  Like many victims, even as Uma has decided for herself that she was moving forward, she hadn’t really dealt with it all, stuffing reactions and impulses down, all but for the run. And her rehash and comparison of Ivan and Joey, did more harm than good for their growing relationship: until she started to see Ivan for what he was. Gentle and not so gentle pushes, comments and asides from Mrs. Lloyd helped to push Uma into some tentative growth, and from the beginning of those moments, she did start to become less guarded, less timid, and more honest and open with Ivan. 

Not an easy or comfortable read, it is a read that is well worth the time, as both Ivan and Uma seem to be better as a couple than either is alone, and with some insights into Mrs. Lloyd’s past, Uma is able to see that she can take charge of, and change her own life.  A wonderful debut. 

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

DNF

I didn't make it very far into this story, only to about 20%. I enjoyed the set-up of a woman seeking shelter from an abusive relationship, and her new setting featuring a man with the power to both heal and protect her. Unfortunately, I couldn't connect with the heroine as she was written in a rather conflicting way. I'm no expert in women who have suffered such a traumatic ordeal, and I understand all women are affected (and heal) differently, but I wasn't convinced of it. The writing didn't feel genuine in regards to how her trauma made her reactive and skeptical to everything around her. It wasn't consistent enough. Over time, sure, but it was inconsistent within pages. This simply wasn't a story for me, but I urge others to at least try it to see if it would be for them as maybe my issues with it won't be across the board.

‘Under Her Skin’ by Adriana Anders was a bit of a surprise read for me. I didn’t know what to expect going in but I know it wasn’t what I got. This was definitely a book that got your mind going and had you thinking what you would do in certain situations.

Finding it difficult to formulate a review that doesn’t give too much away what I will say is that Uma manages to flee her abusive ex and finds herself answering an ad for help by an old lady. She has no-one to help her and nowhere to go so this might be the best chance she has of hiding.

Ivan lives next door to this old lady and he and Uma form a strange bond. Ivan has his own demons he is battling but there is something about Uma that intrigues him and makes him want to know her more.

As I have said this is a difficult book to review as it is hard to give a description without spoiling too much and I think the best way to read this book is like me to go in blind and really experience it for what it is. This appears to be a debut novel by Adriana Anders and if so it is an amazing debut. There are two more books to come in this series and I am eager to find out what Anders writes next for us, she is one author I will be keeping an eye on for sure.

Uma is on the run from an abusive ex who literally tattooed his abuse on her. After hearing about a skin clinic that will remove such tattoos for free, she moves to Blackwood, Virginia, taking a job with a mean old lady as her live in help. Ivan Lives next door and has a past of his own--after beating up his sister's ex for hurting her he spent several years in prison. Drawn to him despite her past Uma wants to open up to him but fears he'll find her disgusting.

I got this as an ARC and I enjoyed it okay. I had a hard time getting into it. I liked the premise but it was just somewhat slow. I liked Ivan--a sweet bad boy who liked taking in strays. I just couldn't really emotionally connect to the characters, especially Uma.

Under Her Skin was an emotional, poignant and promising read. I read the blurb and thought I knew what I was getting into but I was not expecting to feel such an array of feelings. This book got me thinking and remembering just how harsh and volatile relationships can be but with the right person it can be beautiful.

We follow Uma and Ivan ,two people with trouble pasts that are not only drawn together but have a connection neither can explain. Uma is a fighter, survivor and lives with an ugly reminder of how trusting a man can have bad consequences. Uma and Ivan’s relationship was built on each knowing and understanding that they are both hiding from something ugly. Ivan was so different he understood Uma ‘s need to go slow. He was patient and didn’t mind taking the back seat and letting her drive.

Uma and Ivan were both able to free themselves of their pasts when they were together. They both felt no judgements and at peace. I felt what each character was feelings while I read the authors words. I felt their excitement, fears and hopelessness. I enjoyed and understood why and how Uma needed to be the one in control. Her struggle to overcome her fears and her self loathing and how she gets through her day was just so well written. I could feel it all.

Their relationship is slow and steady just as is their sexual relationship. Ivan is an alpha male but when he’s with Uma he’s sensitive and their moments together were so special and passionate. Don’t get me wrong Ivan let’s her be in control but his mouth was so dirty, I loved it. Under her Skin was incredible journey and I’m so glad I took it.

I got this book from NetGalley and was so excited to read it. I hadn't used NetGalley before, so I was surprised to have been approved. 

This story follows Uma, an abused, scared young woman who's trying to get away from her ex and move on from the nightmares that haunt her. Her ex has friends from the law reinforcement and can easily find her, freaking her out to the point of laying low and afraid to make a statement against him. She once had a passion for photography but is now a caretaker for a cantankerous old lady, but Uma doesn't let that derail her from the plans she has. 

Her plans don't involve a man, because what she hides underneath her clothes can't possibly attract someone. Yet her neighbor, Ivan, doesn't seem to care. Ivan seems to be a nice man with a dark past that's shaped who he is, and Uma can't stop thinking about him. They grow closer, and soon there's something undeniable between them. Uma is afraid though, and that could jeopardize everything that's happened. 

The Good: Though there was romance in this book, I loved how it focused on Uma and her problems. She's gone through a lot, and she could either let it drag her down or fight with all that's in her. I found it interesting how much of a conundrum she is. She's scared yet fierce, anti social but makes friends. I loved to see her grow and mature, working through her problems as she makes friends and falls in love. I loved the relationship between Ivan and Uma, to see it change and bloom over time was great. 

“Just like he hammered order into iron, he helped shape and mold her into something strong and lasting.”

The Bad: The story kind of slowed in the middle. I felt like the same issues were brought up again and again. I found myself skimming some areas because it wasn't new and interesting. 

This was an interesting read and I suspect the rest of the series will be just as great. 

-The Avid Reader-

I am impressed by this first work from debut author, Adriana Anders. I was drawn in by the cover and the synopsis at a time when I was looking for an emotional book, and I think Under Her Skin fit that bill pretty well.

Uma Clark is a tortured heroine on the run from an abusive and somewhat powerful ex. She has suffered mental/emotional and physical abuse that has long-term and possibly lasting effects. She was an utterly sympathetic heroine... after reading what she endured from the legally and politically connected Joseph "Joey" Chisholm, my heart hurt for her. Now Uma has arrived in Blackwood, Virginia for a specific reason (which should be left to the reader to discover)... but the small town is a little too close to her ex for comfort. This means Uma feels she is living on borrowed time and she is terrified. As a result of the terror, Uma is jumping at noises, seeing her ex in every male face, and having panic attacks... so it's no wonder that its obvious to everyone she encounters that she is in hiding and needs help.  Well, its obvious to seemingly everyone except for her new employer, the curmudgeonly Ms. Lloyd - an abusive old coot with eccentricities of her own.
Ivan is a big burly lumberjack type who lives and works on the property adjacent to Ms. Floyd. As an ex-con who battles his rage, Ivan is surprisingly gentle with the wounded and strays that who flock to him. I particularly liked that Ivan was a blacksmith, bending iron to his will in the forge on his property. This is such an unusual occupation for heroes this days, and I thought the detail provided gave a unique air to this character and his livelihood.  And hey - I live in New Orleans where we have wrought iron everything so I could totally envision these aspects of the story. From the moment that Ivan meets Uma, he feels the need to add her to his collection of stray and wounded. While she may not be an animal in need of rescuing, he can tell that she definitely needs help.

The relationship between Ivan and Uma progressed solely by necessity... but the story wasn't all build up. I enjoyed watching Uma come out her shell and take her power back through interactions with Ivan and a few progressive sexual encounters. Despite our characters' pasts, the romance really had a "sweet" feel owed mainly to the gentle and accommodating nature of Ivan. He reminded me of a gentle grizzly - fiercely protective of those he cared about and gentle as a lamb when they needed him. His relinquishment of power to Uma created an interesting dynamic - one that I don't normally go for, but it fit this story perfectly. 

If there was anything that I was missing - it was a desire for more action, danger and suspense. I felt like the conflict with Uma's ex was resolved a little too easily. I think the fear and anticipation could have been ramped up a little more as the story and romance was progressing. I also would like to know why Ms. Lloyd never left her house. We got a peek into Ms. Lloyd's past, but that didn't quite translate to her being afraid to leave the house or open the door after dark.

If you like for your contemporary romance to evoke emotion and stories with sympathetic characters, then I recommend this book. I think it would also be enjoyed by fans of dark romance and romantic suspense. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca.

Under Her Skin by Adriana Anders blew me away. Its raw sincerity, combined with a romance that I can only describe as urgent and primal, completely pummeled my heart.

Uma is on the run from an abusive past. Her ex-boyfriend, Joey, was a manipulator who controlled Uma's life, cutting her off from family and friends. He isolated her to the point where he was her primary connection to the outside world. One night, the relationship takes a horrifying turn when Joey holds Uma against her will, assaulting her and marking her body with slurs in the form of tattoos.

Uma flees to the small mountain town of Blackwood, Virginia, after hearing a radio interview about a dermatologist who helps people like Uma for free. Desperate to remove the tattoos that cover much of her body, Uma is scared to undergo laser treatments but just wants to feel normal and whole again--less like a freak and more like herself.

In the meantime, Uma takes a job as live-in help for Ms. Lloyd, a cantankerous widow. She and Uma butt heads constantly, but eventually grow on each other as they develop a kinship.

Living next door is Ivan, a blacksmith and ex-con who served time for assaulting his sister's abusive ex. Ivan is a dichotomy of burly, imposing physicality combined with quiet tenderness. On one hand, Ivan is the man who nearly killed someone exacting justice on his sister's behalf. At the same time, he's the man who rescues stray animals and looks in on his agoraphobic neighbor out of concern.

Ivan has his share of heartache from the past, which is a big reason why he keeps to himself most of the time. Uma probably should be afraid of him, but his inherent sweetness tells her that she can trust him. Likewise, Ivan is drawn to Uma's contradictory personality as well. In one moment, she's jumpy and skittish; in the next, she's bold and challenging. Ivan doesn't know much about the city girl, but he knows that he likes the fire he glimpses in her.

Uma and Ivan strike up a friendship that becomes more, thanks to their intense physical attraction. However, Uma's shame from being marked haunts her constantly and steals her confidence. But Ivan doesn't pressure or push Uma; instead, he makes her comfortable and assures her that she's never at fault. Ivan's unconditional acceptance and loyalty bolsters Uma during her struggle to regain the sense of self that was stolen from her. Uma truly goes on a journey in this book. That journey takes her through hell, but she emerges on the other side so much closer to being whole again.

Throughout the story, there's a delicious undercurrent of longing and tension between Uma and Ivan. Once their relationship turns sexual, the storytelling is elevated to another level. For both of them, sex becomes almost a conduit for healing--while simultaneously being dirty and super erotic. The sex scenes in this book are positively transcendent. Anders' evocative, sensual, and deeply emotional writing style is reminiscent of some of my favorite authors, such as Anne Calhoun, Cara McKenna, and Charlotte Stein.

Under Her Skin hit me hard in the feels, in the best possible way. And this might sound silly, but after I finished the book, I felt absolutely euphoric. It's that good. I highly recommend this book and eagerly await the next book in the Blank Canvas series.

When it comes to romantic tales I find the most satisfying ones put readers through the emotional wringer.  It's not a truly Happily Ever After unless the journey to get there was a hard-fought one.  From start to finish this book held my emotions captive as two bruised souls fought to rise above their pasts in a tale that beautifully blended a charming and heartwarming romance with steamy interludes that ultimately empowered and healed the heroine's battered body and soul.  This romance hurt my heart at times but ultimately had me cheering as an eclectic group of people bonded together to form an unlikely family.

Uma's life was once all about color and light as a photographer, but the moment she met Joey her life suddenly took a dark and sinister turn.  He took over her life, trapping her in a nightmare of doubts and eroding her self-confidence, until one night when the nightmare turned to hell.  With her body permanently marked and her soul bruised she ran until she found an unlikely haven with a bitter old woman and a gentle, yet gruff, giant.  These two individuals become her saviors, giving her the strength to find herself once again.  Being with Ms. Lloyd gives her her first taste of standing up for herself as well as a confidant who understands her fears.  Being with Ivan shows her that strong men don't need to be cruel.  He makes her feel desirable despite the marks on her body though it was a slow journey towards acceptance for her.  When Uma first came to town she was scared of her own shadow.  Her transformation out of her shell was full of baby steps that had me cheering her on as each step saw a palpable weight lifting off her.  Everything Uma went through was vividly depicted which drew me to her as each of her aches became mine.  By the end of the story I felt a bond with her and was happy for the new life she made for herself.

Ivan's lived in Blackwood all his life.  His childhood was tough as his family was poor and his mother walked out after the birth of his sister.  This and an undiagnosed learning disability led to lots of anger issues that ultimately landed him in prison for almost killing the man who abused his sister.  Since getting out he's worked on his rage issues, become caretaker to every stray in town, and tries to keep to himself.  The town sees him as a mystery, a man you don't want to cross but who's loyal to those he calls friend and family.  To the women in town they see him as a sexy beast, which I wholeheartedly agree with!  The moment he and Uma meet is a life-altering experience for them both and takes them on a journey that empowers her and teaches him the power in letting go to another.  In subtle ways Ivan shows he cares for Uma, from shedding his caveman looks to helping her find her self-worth through his longing glances. He proves time and again that he'd do anything to make her happy and keep her safe, but a chance to avenge Uma may put their HEA in doubt in a pulse-pounding conclusion that wrapped up a bit to easily.  Ivan may look like a beast but he has a heart of gold.  He let Uma take charge in moments where she felt weakest and I adored him for it.  His care of Ms. Lloyd also endeared him to me as he could easily charm her bitter heart.  His care of the unwanted town strays made my heart ache even more and sealed his nomination to my list of book boyfriends.

From start to finish I found myself fully immersed in this powerful romance. The main characters were larger-than-life with pasts that left an indelible mark on them both and bound them together in an ultimately uplifting connection.  Their romance was sweet yet scorching at times, empowering as Uma was given control during their erotically-charged encounters.  Throughout the story Ms. Anders vividly depicted the past of both of the main characters which helped me understand the feelings they were going through in the healing process.  The town of Blackwood was also brought alive as a haven for Uma with its majestic mountains and warm countryside courtesy of Ms. Anders talents.  The colorful denizens of this small town further enhanced the narrative, relating past secrets that changed my views on characters as well as introducing me to complex and intriguing secondary characters.  British bartender Rory's antagonistic banter with Ivan's sister, Jessie, especially has me intrigued as it's full of sexual tension that I hope to see play out in the next installment in this series.  On a whole this was an unforgettable story, with characters I quickly came to care for, and I highly recommend it to readers looking for a powerful romance of survival and acceptance.

Under Her Skin will grab readers' interest when it introduces us to two main characters whose lives are very dark and broken .  Uma and Ivan's first meeting starts with a simple helping hand, pretty soon their lives starts to mesh and in the end their trust comes easy with the right person.  This story unfolds bit by bit but doesn't lose the readers attention in any way.  Under The Skin is poignant, dark, often times humorous, all the way intense and quite erotic but it also is a story of taking back what was lost and ultimately surviving with of course a happy ending.  Excellently written and well plotted, I cannot wait for the next book.

I strongly feel that this review needs to start with a warning: If you have been abused, in any fashion, parts of this story may be trigger points for you. Although this review is merely my opinion of a story, I never want to bring harm to anyone…. so, should you feel that the events in this story could bring back painful memories for you – please, pass it by. I and I believe the author would totally understand.

I’m going to keep my review of Under Her Skin rather brief and vague for two compelling reasons. The first is as stated above. I don’t want someone who has experienced abuse to come across this review and be emotionally harmed by my words. The second may seen an odd phrasing but I really believe that this is a story that should be experienced first hand and not through the words of someone else. Under Her Skin is a beautifully haunting romance between a woman who has been horribly abused, and carries those memories on her body – and a man who understands from second hand knowledge what abuse can do to a woman.

I was drawn into Uma and Ivan’s story from the opening and was caught up in events until the very ending. I know there are two other stories planned for this series, perhaps more, and I honestly cannot wait to dive into them. Ms Anders approaches a very sensitive subject with respect, empathy and hope for the future. Two wounded people, drawn to each other make healing possible for both. It’s a timeless love story told well.

I would definitely recommend this story to any Romance reader – with the warning for those who may find triggers within it. Under Her Skin sets the series off to a great start and lays some of the groundwork for the future stories.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

I loved 'Under Her Skin' by Adriana Anders! It’s a gritty story about overcoming abuse - not only physical and mental abuse but dealing with the scars left behind. In this case, tattoos. Covering her upper body and arms. Not beautiful tattoos, but ugly reminders that make Uma’s sick to look at - just thinking about it makes her skin crawl.

I was first drawn in by the cover; then the storyline captured my attention. Once I received my copy, I started reading it right away, even though I was in the middle of another book. Thankfully, I was not disappointed. I devoured it! 

Uma comes to a little town in Virginia because there is a clinic there offering help to people who need tattoos remove, but can’t afford it. But first she needs a job, so she answers an ad in the local paper; 

“Old hag in need of live-in helper to abuse. Nothing kinky.” 

The "old hag" is Ms. Lloyd. She’s a bizarre old lady, who’s hard to get along with. She usually runs off anyone willing to work for her with her demanding and crazy commands. Uma and Ms. Lloyd have a bit of a rough start, but in the end, it might be the best situation for both of them. 

Ivan, who lives next door to Ms. Lloyd, is an ex-con with anger issues. He works out his aggressions hammering hot metal on an anvil as a blacksmith and pummeling a punching bag with his fists, most of which he does at night, and those rhythmic pounding sounds are both comforting and alluring to Uma. 

'Under Her Skin' is Adriana Anders debut novel and the first of three in the series. I look forward to reading more of these gritty, emotional romances! 

Mature rating for sexual scenes and strong language.

3.5 stars

For me this story started off as intriguing, right from the start. A woman on the run with a secret to hide.  A man with a past that continues to haunt him.  A quirky and nasty old woman who you know has a backstory just waiting to be discovered.  I was pulled in to the lives of all these people and anxious to see where the story went next.  

Until it just started to linger.

Under Her Skin was a mix of emotions for me.  I was filled compassion for Uma who experienced abuse that was beyond imagining and had to live with the consequences on a daily basis.  I felt her nervousness at meeting the burly gentle giant that lived next door and her struggle to take back her body and emotions.  My heart swelled for Ivan as he fell in love with a brave and complex woman and ached to take away her pain and hide her from the world while still give her the freedom she deserved.

I enjoyed these characters. From Uma and her suspicious nature that gradually learned to trust again to Ivan who was truly in my mind an unlikely cross between the god Vulcan working with fire and iron, and a squishy teddy bear.  And I even liked Mrs. Lloyd, Uma’s surly shut-in of an employer, for her orneriness.  

However, all of these positive elements didn’t stop the story from starting to drag somewhere around the middle.  I felt as if the same issues were rehashed a number of times and the story ran in place more than it made any headway.  Which saddened me because I wanted to feel immersed in the lives of these people. But instead I felt as if I was just skimming along to get to the end.

3.5 Stars
 I enjoyed reading this book, and I think overall this painted a realistic portrait of a woman who is the survivor of abuse.  I really liked Ivan.  But I did have a couple of issues.  Her mom was shocked at the end by the abuse, and I know she tried to reach out to her mom at first, but obviously she didn't use words like rape, assault, or tell her of the tattoos.  I have a hard time figuring this out, because I would be like mom, I got away after he did this, not just listening and telling her I didn't need money.  I would have told her what the "misunderstanding " was.  And while it understand she was isolated and scared, how far did she think his reach was?  Surely after looking at her body no one would think she willing submitted to it. Finally I felt the romance was far too quick. I can't imagine that as scared as she was that she would become physically intimate with a man after only knowing him for a week or two.  
Despite all of this, I did enjoy it.  I loved the characters, and the writing was good.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is an intense read – very, very good, but not always easy. That said, there is some lovely humour, and a very satisfying ending.

It is most definitely a hot and passionate romance, with a fascinating sharing of power and control, which is very engaging. The musings of the leads are not overdone, and their stories are revealed, in part, through the little actions which define them. And somehow they read each other so carefully and effectively, that the speed in which they connect works.

At the same time as we enjoy the romance, we meet a whole variety of people who make the story so much richer. Cookie is a particular gem, hidden deep in the dirt! The scene is set for a series which has great potential. I am looking forward to see what comes next, in the hope that we return to Blackwood.

As soon as I began reading this book, I knew that it was going to be a good one.  It’s always exciting to find a new author whose writing and storytelling strikes a chord with me.  I was immediately pulled into the story and the lives of the characters and, quite honestly, I didn’t want to put it down.

Uma is on a mission to erase the signs of abuse that were etched into her skin by her abusive boyfriend.  She has arrived in the small community of Blackwood, Virginia to begin the process of healing.  Leaving her old life behind, she wants to start fresh, make a new beginning for herself.  Living in Blackwood is a means to an end, an initial and crucial pit stop in her journey to a new life.  Having only the clothes on her back and a couple of dollars in her pocket, Uma needs to find a job and a safe place to stay.  Answering a peculiar ad in the local newspaper for a caretaker for an elderly lady is just the stroke of luck that she needs…or so she thinks.

Being at the beck and call of her new boss, Ms. Lloyd, would test even a saint’s patience.  She is demanding, rude, and downright cruel to Uma, but Uma isn’t in the position to quit or complain too much.  She needs the meager paycheck and the roof over her head.  

When Uma meets Ivan, Ms. Lloyd’s next door neighbor, she is immediately taken aback by his hulking appearance.  Her experience with men has given her good reason to be cautious, however, Ivan’s intimidating appearance is just an outward mask of a kind and caring human being.  Despite Ivan’s past and his anger issues, he has only ever been gentle and thoughtful toward Uma.  I loved Ivan!

What really worked in this book was that this was Uma’s journey.  She wasn’t looking for Ivan or any man to save her.  She wanted to regain the control that she had lost by being in a relationship with a controlling, abusive man.  Ivan was there to support her, to show her the kindness that she deserved.  He demonstrated the way that a man should treat a woman.  Did he want to seek out her ex-boyfriend and give him a taste of his own medicine?  Absolutely.  Ivan was a gentle giant around those he cared about, but it took great discipline on his part not to seek retribution for the wounded.  Did I mention that I loved Ivan?

The relationship that developed between Ivan and Uma was sweet and patient.  It was also incredibly steamy.  Their connection and chemistry was intense, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning.

Under Her Skin is an emotional story about healing, regaining control, and learning to trust.  It has characters that I was immediately invested in – characters that I was rooting for.  It is the coming together of broken souls.  Each character has their own story, their own history that has made them the person that they are today.  I am looking forward to discovering more about the characters from Blackwood, Virginia.

This was a fantastic debut novel!

*4.5 Stars

Her Body is His Canvas

A darkly possessive relationship has left Uma alone and on the run. Beneath her drab clothing, she hides a terrible secret—proof of her abuse, tattooed onto her skin in a lurid reminder of everything she’s survived.

Caught between a brutal past and an uncertain future, Uma’s reluctant to bare herself to anyone…much less a rough ex-con whose rage drives him in ways she will never understand. But beneath his frightening exterior, Ivan is gentle. Warm. Compassionate. And just as determined to heal Uma’s broken heart as he is to destroy the monster who left his mark scrawled across the delicate tapestry of her skin.

Review:

Wonderful debut for this Author!

There are so many ways to describe this book that I am having a hard time making them be succinct and make sense.  It has dark subject matter that maybe a trigger for some, but I think the Author did a wonderful job with it.  I liked the unique way she dealt with abuse and especially with how Uma is tattooed during her abuse and after how she goes about changing her life and the tattoos on her body. I have to say that just like Ive I wanted to kill Joey for her.   One thing I found a little odd was there were so many abused women in this town.  I don't know the statistics about abuse but it seems high for this small town.  Besides the emotion and tension around Uma's abuse and that her ex could find her at anytime.  There is a super sexy romance going on here.  It builds slowly which makes sense to the story and even with Uma fully dressed most times (because of the tattoos) it sure is hot.  Ive is very good for Uma.  His sister having been abused make him compassionate and patient when getting to know and act upon the chemistry between them.   For this being this Author's first book it is very rich and emotional.  It is also first in a new series, that I cannot wait to read more of.

4Stars

*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*

This book was weird, yet good.  Messy, not perfect kind of good.  When I started it, the characters were very different and not what I was expecting.  This story follows Uma who has been abused by her ex.  You don't learn right away exactly what he did, but you start to put the pieces together.  It's not what you normally read about in abuse victims.  It's no less horrific, but it sure made me think about what I would do if it happened to me.  I think that's what the author did really well in this story.  

When Uma ended up In Blackwood, VA with no money, she takes a job as a live in helper for Mrs. Lloyd, an elderly woman.  My first thought of Mrs. Lloyd is that she was cray cray.  Not really a place for a recently abused woman should be at.  Then we meet Ivan.  I really didn't know what to think of Ivan at first.  He reminds me of one of those men who has spent too much time alone in the woods.    

It's a weird mix of people, but the more you learn about all of them, the more they grow on you and the more you understand why they are they way they are.  Like I said, weird but a good weird.   Really my only complaint was one scene with another woman.  It was a small scene and not major but that's kind of my point.  It was unnecessary to the story and I'm not a fan of interference with other woman in books.  

I am definitely interested in reading the next in the series to see how this author will top this book.  ARC Provided by NetGalley.

This book is really intense. It wasn't easy to read as Uma's former relationship really was a nightmare but I loved to see how she started to heal, how she got stronger and fought to get her life back.

Ivan and Uma are both very complex and very interesting characters who make me want to know what happened to them and what makes them tick. 
Ivan`? Well, that's the rather rough and frightening looking guy living next door, an ex-con actually, who gets her and her fear and who helps her to get back on her feet and to feel good again. 

"Feel good again"? Feeling good isn't easy when your *** of an ex left you with more than a simple broken relationship as a reminder of the time with him and to show what he is capable of. He got under her skin alright, literally. So it's not just a question of brushing him off but also of getting rid of every single reminder he left on her, of getting rid of her fear and also of getting her self-confidence back.
A long way to go but with someone like Ivan at her side, there might be a good chance for her to get there....

Sometimes I felt really sick when I read what had happened and there were times when I was a bit worried how things might turn out and...well, I really enjoyed reading this book and getting to know Uma, Ivan and all the other people around them.