The Purest Hook: A Second Circle Tattoos Novel

4 stars — I don’t know, this one just worked for me. I really loved that even though Dred and Pixie were seriously SO DIFFERENT, there was an undeniable connection and attraction between them that they couldn’t help exploring. This book definitely suffered from moments where I was like “OMG, investigate that! Doesn’t that seem crazy??” Or “get some backup!” Or other logical thoughts for the things they were going through. Which is, somewhat frustrating. It’s probably what’s keeping this a 4 instead of a 4.5 star. Basically it was one of those books where to a reader there were obvious answers that the characters just kept not seeing. Dred was a strange mix of hard and soft. I mean, he’s the lead singer in a metal band for goodness sake. But I loved the way he respected Pixie’s boundaries, how he fell in love with Petal so easily, and the relationship he had with his brothers. You could honestly feel the bond those boys had with one another, and I loved it. Pixie was pretty fun and adorable. I ached for what she went through in her past, and it’s so hard to see how child abuse can shape a person’s perspective — particularly how she still thought people would be upset with her instead of being horrified with her situation. I LOVED that when she had setbacks, even though it took her some time, she inevitably relied upon the friends and support systems she had set up for herself. It gave me a sense of goodness in the world. They were pretty steamy together as well. I loved the way they navigated that, because it could have been really tricky. But I feel like they didn’t compromise who they were, while still respecting one another enough to get through any tricky spots. Basically, consent is freaking hot when done right. Loved seeing the Second Circle Tattoo folks again, and it’s making me think I really need to go back and finally finish the series by reading Cujo’s book. I really appreciated the made family that was showcased there. And the main reason I read this book is that I want to finally read the whole Preload series, but I remember wishing I had read Dred’s book first when I read Jordan Reclaimed a few years ago, so I thought I would do it in the right order this time. Those boys break my heart, but inevitably put it back together. These stories tend to showcase how people with crazy circumstances in their pasts can truly find their way to a HEA, and I love that. I actually probably would enjoy these stories even more without the added suspense element added in…there’s enough of their journey towards happiness, I don’t need the bad guy stuff. But either way, this was a definite winner for me.

Once again Scarlett Cole has blown me away with her ability to masterfully craft a story that grips my heart and sticks with me long after the last page has been read. Her characters are real, raw, and flawed yet striving to make the best of what life has given them and the H/h of this story are no different. Pixie literally owes her life to the guys at Second Circle. They found her when she was at her lowest and have been by her side every step of the way. Now she's living a quiet happy life and very happy. Dred Zander is bigger than life. He's the seriously sexy rock star that works with Trent on the TV show. The last thing Pixie needs is to be tempted by his sweet talk and washboard abs. Especially with all the paparazzi that follows him around. There are things in her past that need to stay firmly in the past. He's hard to deny though and before long she finds herself in the whirlwind that is his life. Will this be the best thing to ever happen to her or will it be the end of the new life she's built? This one should be on the top of everyone's must read list. I highly recommend it.

This tale was intensely emotional and wildly addictive. The plot was tight, creating a believable and intense story that didn’t let up. I enjoy the way that Cole transitions from romance to suspense, emotional to everyday fun. The fast paced plot never stagnated nor did it rush forward. I wasn’t simply drawn into this story but rather became part of the characters’ lives from the very 1st page. I was mesmerized by these characters and their lives. Pixie’s backstory is hard hitting but also very rewarding to read. I loved getting to know her in the present day. She’s the type of character that you can have fun with, even though she is going through something earth shattering. I love her sass & spunk. Dred’s story was no less raw & real. His reactions to everything were so off the cuff that he became so much more than simply a storybook character. I didn’t simply feel for him, but also fell in love with him as Cole dug deep into his past while also showing the caring, yet hard-headed individual that he is today. Surrounded by both of their adopted families, this cast of characters is definitely a hit. This novel was hot, like sizzling hot, and emotionally hard hitting. I love the seamless way that Cole draws everything together, creating not only a fantastic romance but also characters that will stick with you in the long run. This is definitely a novel that will stand the test of time and be loved time and time again by readers. Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.