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Everlasting Ink #1
Does He Know?
NYT and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylee Ryan brings you a new standalone series surrounding five best friends who co-own a tattoo studio. "Does He Know?" is an age gap, brother's best friend, small town romance.
Emerson
It’s not like I planned to fall for my older brother’s best friend.
It just happened. With a perfect body covered in tattoos, and a dirty mouth, Roman is the kind of guy women notice—and believe me, I noticed. Even when I tried not to.
When he finally gives in to temptation, there’s no going back. At least for me. Too bad Roman doesn’t see it that way.
He thinks he needs to protect me and my relationship with my brother, but I don't need him to fight my battles. I just need him.
Roman
My name whispered from Emerson’s perfect pink lips is all it takes for me to betray my best friend.
Before that night, I kept the green-eyed beauty at arm’s length. Watched her from afar and told myself that the chemistry between us was one-sided.
I pretended that I didn’t want her more than my next breath. Which is what’s on the line if her brother ever finds out we’ve been sneaking around behind his back.
But I can’t stay away. Especially after knowing what it’s like to have her and lose her.
Now, I’m given a second chance, and I have every intention of making her mine—consequences be damned.
Emerson
It’s not like I planned to fall for my older brother’s best friend.
It just happened. With a perfect body covered in tattoos, and a dirty mouth, Roman is the kind of guy women notice—and believe me, I noticed. Even when I tried not to.
When he finally gives in to temptation, there’s no going back. At least for me. Too bad Roman doesn’t see it that way.
He thinks he needs to protect me and my relationship with my brother, but I don't need him to fight my battles. I just need him.
Roman
My name whispered from Emerson’s perfect pink lips is all it takes for me to betray my best friend.
Before that night, I kept the green-eyed beauty at arm’s length. Watched her from afar and told myself that the chemistry between us was one-sided.
I pretended that I didn’t want her more than my next breath. Which is what’s on the line if her brother ever finds out we’ve been sneaking around behind his back.
But I can’t stay away. Especially after knowing what it’s like to have her and lose her.
Now, I’m given a second chance, and I have every intention of making her mine—consequences be damned.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2023
1,001 people are currently reading
6,390 people want to read
About the author
Kaylee Ryan
106 books6,120 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has been crowned the Queen of Swoon by her readers. With nearly fifty romance books under her belt, she’s known for penning happily ever afters with heart. When she's not writing, you can find her with a book in her hand or hanging out with her family where she resides in her home state of Ohio.
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WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED
Reader Group: http://bit.ly/1Thnj0K
Author Page: http://bit.ly/20VHGHD
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2KulVvH
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2lfFkIe
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/31Io4vF
Website: http://www.kayleeryan.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 423 reviews
December 4, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
''Our hearts are on the same page.''
Safety warnings:
- H 29 / h 19
- No cheating
- No OW drama
- Insignificant OM drama
- Child neglect
- Child abandonment
- Mention of alcoholism
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
The book started out really good, but I think towards the middle/end it lost its touch for me and I'll explain why in a bit.
Emerson has been in love with one of her brothers’ best friends for years and Roman has been feeling things for her too but they are both unable to explore it or even admit to it as the connection they have stems from her brother and Roman's entire friendship with him.
The scene where Emerson is masturbating and Roman walks in on her and starts doing it too was super-hot and it was the perfect ice breaker for them. They both just struggle with their feelings and how they need to be careful with how her brother will take it but it's such a complicated mess.
They do start their secret relationship and they have to hide all the time. Making up lies and having a few mins together when everyone is around. She is also in her last year at Uni and the distance does not really cause them issues, but it does make things harder for them.
It's not only their friendship but the age gap. The fact her brother wants her to live a life outside of what they grew up from and get out of their small town and this causes them to break up. Well, Roman initiates the breakup and she sadly agree.
This is where things go downhill for me to be honest. They break up BUT they remain in contact almost every day until it gets too hard, but they text and call every other day or every few weeks to catch up. I wish they had just cut off all ties and remained distant...they do eventually stop talking and she doesn't visit anymore but I felt like it didn't happen the way it should have had to impact us.
Once she graduates and moves back though they can't help but be together and get back into their secret relationship, but it won't be staying a secret for much longer as Emerson gets pregnant and that is where everyone finds out about their secret and her brother too.
Again, this impact happened a little too late into the story. How her brother found out and not the actual pregnancy.
It started out really strong, but I wish some stuff happened differently.
''Our hearts are on the same page.''
Safety warnings:
- H 29 / h 19
- No cheating
- No OW drama
- Insignificant OM drama
- Child neglect
- Child abandonment
- Mention of alcoholism
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
The book started out really good, but I think towards the middle/end it lost its touch for me and I'll explain why in a bit.
Emerson has been in love with one of her brothers’ best friends for years and Roman has been feeling things for her too but they are both unable to explore it or even admit to it as the connection they have stems from her brother and Roman's entire friendship with him.
The scene where Emerson is masturbating and Roman walks in on her and starts doing it too was super-hot and it was the perfect ice breaker for them. They both just struggle with their feelings and how they need to be careful with how her brother will take it but it's such a complicated mess.
They do start their secret relationship and they have to hide all the time. Making up lies and having a few mins together when everyone is around. She is also in her last year at Uni and the distance does not really cause them issues, but it does make things harder for them.
It's not only their friendship but the age gap. The fact her brother wants her to live a life outside of what they grew up from and get out of their small town and this causes them to break up. Well, Roman initiates the breakup and she sadly agree.
This is where things go downhill for me to be honest. They break up BUT they remain in contact almost every day until it gets too hard, but they text and call every other day or every few weeks to catch up. I wish they had just cut off all ties and remained distant...they do eventually stop talking and she doesn't visit anymore but I felt like it didn't happen the way it should have had to impact us.
Once she graduates and moves back though they can't help but be together and get back into their secret relationship, but it won't be staying a secret for much longer as Emerson gets pregnant and that is where everyone finds out about their secret and her brother too.
Again, this impact happened a little too late into the story. How her brother found out and not the actual pregnancy.
It started out really strong, but I wish some stuff happened differently.
November 11, 2023
Does He Know? Is a forbidden age gap romance that had me wanting to embrace these characters from the very first moment.
Emerson has the next chapter of her life rolled out and despite having an older brother and his friends being protective, she knows that she's in good hands. But there's one particular person that she wishes would see her as something more. Too bad he's not only off limits, he's her brother's friend.
Being ten years older than a woman you've constantly thought about is not a fun reminder. Add in the fact that she's your best friend's little sister will have anyone feeling off kilter and that's no different for Roman.Emerson has been a part of his life for so long that he doesn't remember what life was like before. Now that she's back home for the summer and working with him and her brother at their tattoo shop,seeing her everyday is going to be difficult.
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I really liked the attraction between Roman and Emerson. You felt it looming and when they were in a room together, it was game over. I also loved the family dynamic and the side characters because they played such an important role in the main characters' lives. They were a tight knit group and they celebrated each other's victories and leaned on each other when times were tough.
My issue with this one was that it was a bit repetitive and dragged out. I needed more from them as a couple and certain things felt anti climatic. Towards the end also felt rushed to me and I would've loved to see certain things play out a bit more. Aside from that, I think if you're a fan of brother's best friend romance, you might enjoy this one more.
November 14, 2023
How have I never heard of Kaylee Ryan before this book?!? Now I’m obsessed and WILL be reading her backlist.
This was a great start to a series! This book had so many things that I love in a story, and I found myself captivated from the beginning.
The chemistry between Emerson & Roman was soo good! Em was much younger, but she never acted like it, which I was thankful for. The longing for each other and pace of their relationship was believable and had me at the edge of my seat waiting for their 💥explosion!💥
I loved how Roman loved Emerson so fiercely and it really showed through his actions & how he treated her. Though there was some push & pull, the tension made things that much more delicious. I loved how supportive Rome was and how he only wanted the best for Em & her relationship with her brother, Forrest.
I also fell in love with their amazing group of friends turned family, and it makes me excited for what’s to come. *hoping we get the rest of the guys + Monroe.*
From cover to cover I was rooting for them and was so happy when all was said and done.
Y’all just need to read this one!!
You already know that I had to download the extended epilogue and boy did it have me in my feels. 🥹
*thank you so much to @greyspromo & @kaylee_ryan_author for a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review!*
𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊:
•small town
•age gap (10 years)
•brothers best friend
•childhood crush
•V heroine
•accidental 🤰🏽
This was a great start to a series! This book had so many things that I love in a story, and I found myself captivated from the beginning.
The chemistry between Emerson & Roman was soo good! Em was much younger, but she never acted like it, which I was thankful for. The longing for each other and pace of their relationship was believable and had me at the edge of my seat waiting for their 💥explosion!💥
I loved how Roman loved Emerson so fiercely and it really showed through his actions & how he treated her. Though there was some push & pull, the tension made things that much more delicious. I loved how supportive Rome was and how he only wanted the best for Em & her relationship with her brother, Forrest.
I also fell in love with their amazing group of friends turned family, and it makes me excited for what’s to come. *hoping we get the rest of the guys + Monroe.*
From cover to cover I was rooting for them and was so happy when all was said and done.
Y’all just need to read this one!!
You already know that I had to download the extended epilogue and boy did it have me in my feels. 🥹
*thank you so much to @greyspromo & @kaylee_ryan_author for a copy of this arc in exchange for an honest review!*
𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊:
•small town
•age gap (10 years)
•brothers best friend
•childhood crush
•V heroine
•accidental 🤰🏽
March 15, 2024
Roman and Emerson
This hurts to score like this. Usually one of my favs..
Roman is one of five, in a group of guys that grew up together and now own EI together. They are best friends and a tight group. This also includes one of the guys sister, Emerson. She is away at college and comes home during breaks and holidays. She has had a crush on Roman for quite some time and soon finds out the feelings are mutual from Roman. He has had his eye on her also, except neither have acted on it due to her brother and his BF.
I so kept wanting this to get better but there really is no story line. The whole book is they can’t get tightened, they can’t get together, what will the brother say, etc. Well, as adults, all you had to do was talk to him or better yet it isn’t his life! I agree with many, when it all wraps up at 90% or more, then the end is rushed. I really like these two together but it was difficult to get past the wishy washy.
This hurts to score like this. Usually one of my favs..
Roman is one of five, in a group of guys that grew up together and now own EI together. They are best friends and a tight group. This also includes one of the guys sister, Emerson. She is away at college and comes home during breaks and holidays. She has had a crush on Roman for quite some time and soon finds out the feelings are mutual from Roman. He has had his eye on her also, except neither have acted on it due to her brother and his BF.
I so kept wanting this to get better but there really is no story line. The whole book is they can’t get tightened, they can’t get together, what will the brother say, etc. Well, as adults, all you had to do was talk to him or better yet it isn’t his life! I agree with many, when it all wraps up at 90% or more, then the end is rushed. I really like these two together but it was difficult to get past the wishy washy.
March 16, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
October 23, 2023
This was such a good book! Another hit from Kaylee.
Tropes include:
💗virgin heroine
💗age gap
💗brothers best friend
💗tattoo shop
💗accidental pregnancy
💗pierced 🍆
I am going to really try to keep the spoilers at bay as much as possible. This is the story of the FMC, Emerson, and her brothers best friend, Roman. This book begins when Emerson is 19 and Roman is 29. It’s a fairy fast paced time line and by end of book Emerson is almost 21. Emerson has always had feelings for Roman and as time goes on it has gotten worse. She’s home from college and they start secretly seeing each other. As time goes they know how they feel, however Roman breaks it off because after her brother hinted at that he wants Emerson to have the world, he still doesn’t know about them and doesn’t think Roman will accept him. Emerson comes back after graduation from college and they realize there pull is just too strong… but will her brother accept their relationship? Will he force them apart? Will he have to leave the business he built with his friends? At times my heart hurt for both of them. I absolutely loved it… cover to cover read💜Thank you to Kaylee and to Give me books pr for allowing me to read in advance.
Tropes include:
💗virgin heroine
💗age gap
💗brothers best friend
💗tattoo shop
💗accidental pregnancy
💗pierced 🍆
I am going to really try to keep the spoilers at bay as much as possible. This is the story of the FMC, Emerson, and her brothers best friend, Roman. This book begins when Emerson is 19 and Roman is 29. It’s a fairy fast paced time line and by end of book Emerson is almost 21. Emerson has always had feelings for Roman and as time goes on it has gotten worse. She’s home from college and they start secretly seeing each other. As time goes they know how they feel, however Roman breaks it off because after her brother hinted at that he wants Emerson to have the world, he still doesn’t know about them and doesn’t think Roman will accept him. Emerson comes back after graduation from college and they realize there pull is just too strong… but will her brother accept their relationship? Will he force them apart? Will he have to leave the business he built with his friends? At times my heart hurt for both of them. I absolutely loved it… cover to cover read💜Thank you to Kaylee and to Give me books pr for allowing me to read in advance.
March 26, 2024
I read book#2 first, and this is couple #1's story.
What to say,I enjoyed this one too!
There was angst due to the fact that this is a BBF's little sister romance, which was the main factor for the angst.
I loved the dynamics of this friends group and their relationship with each other.
Tropes
Brother's best friend little sister
Age gap..29/19
Non manho/ Virgin heroine
Small town setting
Tattoo artist/ Uni student
Angst
Steamy scenes
Beautiful epilogue
Part of a series
What to say,I enjoyed this one too!
There was angst due to the fact that this is a BBF's little sister romance, which was the main factor for the angst.
I loved the dynamics of this friends group and their relationship with each other.
Tropes
Brother's best friend little sister
Age gap..29/19
Non manho/ Virgin heroine
Small town setting
Tattoo artist/ Uni student
Angst
Steamy scenes
Beautiful epilogue
Part of a series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
December 1, 2023hmm book starts off with the series H's discussing how much they miss & prefer tattooing 'real tits' 😕
that's sadly not what i was expecting from Kaylee Ryan's heros
that's sadly not what i was expecting from Kaylee Ryan's heros
Read
November 11, 2024I'm not going to rate this because I don't want to bring my average rating down, just know that it's bad
November 13, 2023
5/5 ⭐️ | Dual POV: Roman & Emerson
This is the first book in Kaylee’s new Everlasting Ink series, and it was amazing! I loved it from beginning to end! It was fast paced, romantic, and steamy!
The story follows Emerson (19), and her brother’s best friend, Roman (29). Roman and his four friends own a very successful tattoo shop called Everlasting Ink. Emerson, who is in her last year of college, has had a crush on Roman but always thought it was one sided, until one-night changes it all.
I loved Roman and Emerson’s relationship so much! You could feel how much these two truly loved each other and how desperately they wanted to be together! Roman was very conflicted at first, due to their age difference and Forest being her older brother. However, when it soon becomes impossible for him to resist Emerson any longer, he makes her his everything! The chemistry between them was off the charts!
What to expect:
Small Town
Brother’s Best Friend
Age Gap
Tattoo Artist
Thank you Kaylee & Gray's Promotions for the ARC!
This is the first book in Kaylee’s new Everlasting Ink series, and it was amazing! I loved it from beginning to end! It was fast paced, romantic, and steamy!
The story follows Emerson (19), and her brother’s best friend, Roman (29). Roman and his four friends own a very successful tattoo shop called Everlasting Ink. Emerson, who is in her last year of college, has had a crush on Roman but always thought it was one sided, until one-night changes it all.
I loved Roman and Emerson’s relationship so much! You could feel how much these two truly loved each other and how desperately they wanted to be together! Roman was very conflicted at first, due to their age difference and Forest being her older brother. However, when it soon becomes impossible for him to resist Emerson any longer, he makes her his everything! The chemistry between them was off the charts!
What to expect:
Small Town
Brother’s Best Friend
Age Gap
Tattoo Artist
Thank you Kaylee & Gray's Promotions for the ARC!
October 23, 2023
I shouldn't be surprised at how much I loved everything about this new series. Book 1 has started off really strong and I'm here for all that's to come.
I was hooked the second I started reading. I'm usually a fast reader but I was pacing myself with this one because I wanted it to last as long as possible. Both Rome and Emerson were easy to love. I loved Emerson despite being younger, she never made me feel it, if that makes sense. He was 10 years her senior and while that did give me pause, their relationship was paced in such pace I got over it really fast. The slow burn and angst was driving me crazy and I couldn't wait for them to end up together and come "clean" to her brother.
From start to finish I was rooting for them and when all was laid out on the table I was extremely happy how everything and everyone help them to the HEA.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
I was hooked the second I started reading. I'm usually a fast reader but I was pacing myself with this one because I wanted it to last as long as possible. Both Rome and Emerson were easy to love. I loved Emerson despite being younger, she never made me feel it, if that makes sense. He was 10 years her senior and while that did give me pause, their relationship was paced in such pace I got over it really fast. The slow burn and angst was driving me crazy and I couldn't wait for them to end up together and come "clean" to her brother.
From start to finish I was rooting for them and when all was laid out on the table I was extremely happy how everything and everyone help them to the HEA.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
November 24, 2023
DNF at 40%. Way too slow. Repetitive. Boring. He called her “baby girl” so many damn times…I thought I was gonna lose it and to see my Kindle.
December 2, 2023
Loving this new series from Kaylee! Emerson has been in love with her brother’s best friend Roman for as long as she can remember, but because of their age difference she knows that nothing will ever happen…until something does, and she takes her shot. Roman has been attracted to his best friend’s little sister for years now, and while he’s fought his feelings before, he no longer can fight them when she’s home for the summer and working for the group. I loved how both of them had such strong feelings, yet it frustrated me so much that they kept it a secret for so long, however that was warranted. Thankfully everything works out and there are even a few surprises thrown in, and I can’t wait for more from this group and series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 17, 2024
3.5 stars! — I really enjoyed this book! While the story did feel a bit rushed and was fairly predictable, that’s something I’ve come to expect in some romance reads. Sometimes, you just want a feel-good, comforting story where you know what’s coming, and this one definitely delivers on that front. Loved the brothers' best friend trope – it’s always a win for me. The chemistry between the characters was great, and there were definitely some spicy moments that kept things interesting! The banter between the characters was so fun, and I loved the strong friendships that felt like family. It gave the book a warm, close-knit vibe that I couldn’t get enough of. I’m definitely looking forward to the rest of the series.
September 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this read! If you like age gap and brother’s best friend tropes, this will hit the spot. This book was a bit too spaced out; with some topics being dragged a little too long and others being went through too fast. I loved the rapport and joking between the five best friends. I loved their protectiveness for Emerson and her best friend, Monroe. I loved the sisterhood of Emerson and Monroe, it reminded me of my 3 besties and how we have each other’s backs through thick and thin. Easy, fast read. It definitely hit the spot of what I was looking for. Excited to read book 2 in this 5 book series!
November 6, 2023
4.5/5
Kaylee Ryan does it again with a brand new series and I am already addicted !
Roman, Forrest and their three friends own a tattoo shop. Forrest has a younger sister, Emerson, who is finishing college and... has a hard crush on Roman. Emerson thought her crush was one-sided until one night...
----------
I was hooked from the start and couldn't put the book down. This book has everything I love : small town, found family, age gap, tattooed men, pierced man (!!)
Emerson and Roman are ten years apart but you don't see the age difference. I loved how Roman was conflicted at first, because of Forrest, but then I wanted him to move on from this matter (and he did, eventually). Both have a very strong bond, before and after getting together and their chemistry is on point.
I loved the tight-knit group of friends, and how they really are family. All of the guys (except for Roman of course) consider Emerson as their little sister and it melt my heart.
I am very excited for the next books in this series, and am already speculating about some couples...!
Kaylee Ryan does it again with a brand new series and I am already addicted !
Roman, Forrest and their three friends own a tattoo shop. Forrest has a younger sister, Emerson, who is finishing college and... has a hard crush on Roman. Emerson thought her crush was one-sided until one night...
----------
I was hooked from the start and couldn't put the book down. This book has everything I love : small town, found family, age gap, tattooed men, pierced man (!!)
Emerson and Roman are ten years apart but you don't see the age difference. I loved how Roman was conflicted at first, because of Forrest, but then I wanted him to move on from this matter (and he did, eventually). Both have a very strong bond, before and after getting together and their chemistry is on point.
I loved the tight-knit group of friends, and how they really are family. All of the guys (except for Roman of course) consider Emerson as their little sister and it melt my heart.
I am very excited for the next books in this series, and am already speculating about some couples...!
July 30, 2024
Loved the book, I might be partial because I married my best friend’s little sister so I could empathize with the whole story. I enjoy the characters and look forward to reading more about the Everlasting Ink family!
October 21, 2023
OMG! This book was amazing. Love Emerson and Roman’s romance story. Roman and Emerson’s brother, Forrest have been best friends since kindergarten. This book starts when Emerson is 19 and Roman is 29. Roman is starting to see Emerson in a different light instead of seeing her as a pseudo sister. Since Emerson started seeing boys, she has had a crush on Roman. Roman is afraid to act on his feelings because Forrest is all Emerson has and Roman doesn’t want to get in the way of their brotherly/sisterly relationship. They end up finally acting on their feelings and start a secret relationship. The only person who knows is Emerson’s best friend, Monroe. Roman doesn’t tell any of his friends. Since Roman has such close friends and he tells none of them about his relationship, Roman has to endure watching his friends act brotherly to Emerson. He doesn’t like that his friends are hugging/touching Emerson in a brotherly way. Love how these two end up together. Worth the read
April 17, 2024
Always with the unexpected pregnancies. Why
January 3, 2024
I've read many books by this author and usually have no issues, so I'm surprised that this one hit me the way it did. I've even run into situations like this before and they didn't bother me as much as this one. My big issue here was the age difference between Roman and Emerson. I think why it bothered me was Roman talking about noticing Emerson when she was 16 and he made sure to stay away from her and not be around her. He gets credit for that, but it started the ick for me. Then there was the monologue in his head about her, but for me things really went over the line when he stepped into her room and they both masturbated together. Sure, Emerson was going to town and moaned out Roman's name, then after he walked out and went home. Then it's months later and Emerson is home again and both are pining for each other, but there is the bro code and Emerson won't do anything on her own. At this point, I decided that was enough for me. I'm sure they get things worked out, sure that Emerson's brother ends up being ok with things, but I won't be around for it. This one just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2023
Does He Know is the first book in the Everlasting Ink series by Kaylee Ryan and HOLY MOLY, it's a roller coaster ride to Angst Town! I'm not a huge fan of age gap romances, but Ms. Ryan handled this one in such a way that you don't FEEL the gap! I LOVED everything about Roman and Emerson's love story! The older brother's best friend is one of my FAVE tropes and Kaylee KILLED it!!! The agonizing push/pull between them was compelling and, at times, heartbreaking....and I am head-over-heals in love with both of them!!!
The cast of characters surrounding these two star-crossed lovers is exceptional! The five friends/turned business partners are so close and the hilarious banter between them is top notch! You can also feel the love and caring of chosen family. AND the over-the-top alpha protectiveness when it comes to Emerson? Absolutely swoony!
Once again, Kaylee has set the scene for an AMAZING series with this first book! I can't WAIT to see what happens with the rest of these "brothers"!!!
The cast of characters surrounding these two star-crossed lovers is exceptional! The five friends/turned business partners are so close and the hilarious banter between them is top notch! You can also feel the love and caring of chosen family. AND the over-the-top alpha protectiveness when it comes to Emerson? Absolutely swoony!
Once again, Kaylee has set the scene for an AMAZING series with this first book! I can't WAIT to see what happens with the rest of these "brothers"!!!
November 21, 2023
So so dull. The only positive was that he took the potential loss of his friendship with her brother and business partner seriously.
November 12, 2023
3.5/5 Stars
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
Tattooed bad boys with a heart of gold are kind of one of my weaknesses. If they are yours as well then Roman Bailey is going to light your world on fire.
Let me tell you right now, Roman Bailey has #endgoals book boyfriend written all over him. From the outside looking in he is tall, dark, and handsome. The quiet guy with an edgy exterior. On the inside, Roman is a cinnamon roll all day long. When he cares for someone he is going to pull out all the stops making sure that they are protected, loved, and taken care of. Pampered, even. He has a big heart and he doesn't shy away from showing the people that he cares about that they are important to him. Emerson's character didn't stand out to me in any monumental way but I didn't dislike her character either. I admired her for going after what she wanted when it came to having a relationship with Roman. She wasn't shy about her feelings and taking a plunge with him. I also liked that she knew what she wanted out of life and she wasn't going to let anyone dictate how she should live it. Especially not her overprotective (though coming from a good place) brother.
I loved the cast of side characters in this book. There is a great found-family vibe going on that I found compelling. The overall themes of friendship and family are strong throughout the story. I really latched on to that and I am excited to read the rest of the books in the series. The only issue that I had with the characters was that most of them felt one-dimensional. I honestly couldn't picture any of them in my head and their personalities were void of personalization. I could get a general sense of their personality through their dialogue but other than that the only thing I could gather about them personally was their shared interest in the tattoo shop. No other hobbies or interests are ever really mentioned for any of the side characters and that distanced me from the story a little bit.
The romance in this one is a reaaaaally slow-burn. Keep in mind that Emerson and Roman have a ten-year age difference and Emerson isn't all that experienced where romance or intimacy is concerned. I liked that Roman was adamant about taking this slow with Emerson. And when I say slow I mean it! I liked how their intimacy wasn't always sexual. They just loved laying next to each other skin to skin and basking in each other's warmth and comfort. Once they decided that they were going to give things a try their relationship progression felt very genuine and organic.
I have read this author before and I have always enjoyed her writing style. It is very polished and easy to read. Though the plot in this book was nicely crafted, it did lag in places. There were a lot of inner monologues going on and I think that slowed things down. Otherwise, I enjoyed the progression of the plot and the ideas used. The world-building was on the smaller side but the reader definitely gets a feel for the surroundings.
Overall, this is a romance story that packs on the feels with a swoony hero that will sweep you off your feet. If your go-to tropes are age gap or brother's best friend/best friend's sister then this book is going to be right up your alley. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
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⛔My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost from the publisher/author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I am leaving a voluntary review and all opinions are my own.
Tattooed bad boys with a heart of gold are kind of one of my weaknesses. If they are yours as well then Roman Bailey is going to light your world on fire.
Let me tell you right now, Roman Bailey has #endgoals book boyfriend written all over him. From the outside looking in he is tall, dark, and handsome. The quiet guy with an edgy exterior. On the inside, Roman is a cinnamon roll all day long. When he cares for someone he is going to pull out all the stops making sure that they are protected, loved, and taken care of. Pampered, even. He has a big heart and he doesn't shy away from showing the people that he cares about that they are important to him. Emerson's character didn't stand out to me in any monumental way but I didn't dislike her character either. I admired her for going after what she wanted when it came to having a relationship with Roman. She wasn't shy about her feelings and taking a plunge with him. I also liked that she knew what she wanted out of life and she wasn't going to let anyone dictate how she should live it. Especially not her overprotective (though coming from a good place) brother.
I loved the cast of side characters in this book. There is a great found-family vibe going on that I found compelling. The overall themes of friendship and family are strong throughout the story. I really latched on to that and I am excited to read the rest of the books in the series. The only issue that I had with the characters was that most of them felt one-dimensional. I honestly couldn't picture any of them in my head and their personalities were void of personalization. I could get a general sense of their personality through their dialogue but other than that the only thing I could gather about them personally was their shared interest in the tattoo shop. No other hobbies or interests are ever really mentioned for any of the side characters and that distanced me from the story a little bit.
The romance in this one is a reaaaaally slow-burn. Keep in mind that Emerson and Roman have a ten-year age difference and Emerson isn't all that experienced where romance or intimacy is concerned. I liked that Roman was adamant about taking this slow with Emerson. And when I say slow I mean it! I liked how their intimacy wasn't always sexual. They just loved laying next to each other skin to skin and basking in each other's warmth and comfort. Once they decided that they were going to give things a try their relationship progression felt very genuine and organic.
I have read this author before and I have always enjoyed her writing style. It is very polished and easy to read. Though the plot in this book was nicely crafted, it did lag in places. There were a lot of inner monologues going on and I think that slowed things down. Otherwise, I enjoyed the progression of the plot and the ideas used. The world-building was on the smaller side but the reader definitely gets a feel for the surroundings.
Overall, this is a romance story that packs on the feels with a swoony hero that will sweep you off your feet. If your go-to tropes are age gap or brother's best friend/best friend's sister then this book is going to be right up your alley. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
BLOG FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM GOODREADS TIKTOK TWITTER BOOKBUB AMAZON PINTEREST KO-FI
⛔My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers.
November 13, 2023
This is book 1 in the Everlasting Ink series and this book follows Emerson and Roman. Roman is best friends with Emerson's brother Forest. Roman, Forrest and three of their other friends own a successful tattoo shop in their small town. Emerson is very close with her brother and his friends. Emerson has had a crush on Roman for years and she believed it was one sided until 1 night when Roman walks in on Emerson....
There was a lot to like about this book. First of all, I love a good age gap romance and then throw in brother's best friend and I was immediately hooked. Roman tries really hard to stay away from Emerson, but he was so drawn to her. He was terrified of losing his best friend and more importantly he was worried it would ruin Emerson's relationship with her brother. But the heart wants what the heart wants.
When Rome finally gives into Emerson he is all in and man does he fall hard! He is so sweet to her and wants to take care of her. Emerson is more cautious when it comes to their relationship, where Rome wants to tell Forrest, Emerson wants to keep things secret until they are sure the relationship will succeed. There is lots of sneaking around, secret looks and touching, stolen kisses, and lies to cover up their relationship. This is also a slooooow burn. There are certain lines Rome won't cross with Emerson, he wants to take things slow with her.
I LOVE the found family in this book. The guys are all so much fun and I can't wait for the rest of their stories. They all have such love and affection for Emerson and they are all really close. I love Emerson's best friend she was so supportive of the relationship with Rome. I really can't wait for the rest of this series, every character is so good!
If you love a brother's best friend, age gap romance then I think you will like this one!
There was a lot to like about this book. First of all, I love a good age gap romance and then throw in brother's best friend and I was immediately hooked. Roman tries really hard to stay away from Emerson, but he was so drawn to her. He was terrified of losing his best friend and more importantly he was worried it would ruin Emerson's relationship with her brother. But the heart wants what the heart wants.
When Rome finally gives into Emerson he is all in and man does he fall hard! He is so sweet to her and wants to take care of her. Emerson is more cautious when it comes to their relationship, where Rome wants to tell Forrest, Emerson wants to keep things secret until they are sure the relationship will succeed. There is lots of sneaking around, secret looks and touching, stolen kisses, and lies to cover up their relationship. This is also a slooooow burn. There are certain lines Rome won't cross with Emerson, he wants to take things slow with her.
I LOVE the found family in this book. The guys are all so much fun and I can't wait for the rest of their stories. They all have such love and affection for Emerson and they are all really close. I love Emerson's best friend she was so supportive of the relationship with Rome. I really can't wait for the rest of this series, every character is so good!
If you love a brother's best friend, age gap romance then I think you will like this one!
November 15, 2023
I was hooked immediately. This tension-filled brother’s best friend, age-gap romance is setting the stage for what’s going to be a great series. Roman and Emerson are easy to love and their chemistry came right off the pages. The angst between these two was agonizing. These two had me on a roller-coaster. I loved the two together and could not wait for them to be able to be together openly, it was a perfect slowburn. I loved how these two ended up together!
Let’s talk about Roman!! He’s perfect, protective, possessive, dirty talking, and when he falls, he falls hard. This alpha made me swoon with all the heart melting and emotionally touching moments. He’s dark and intimidating on the outside but inside he’s a huge cuddly bear. There aren’t words to explain my feeling for everything he does to protect those he cares for, even when it breaks his heart.
This can be read as a standalone, but is the first book in a new series. Let me just say, when you get to know the Everlasting Ink family you will be hooked. This is going to be a compelling new series and I can’t wait.
This book is beautiful! The writing and pacing is well-crafted and easy to get into. There was a teeny tiny thing that I personally found a bit cringy but everything else was such perfection it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of the story one bit. This was a book I wanted to binge, but at the same time I wasn’t ready for it to end. I loved it!!
✨️ Brother’s best friend
✨️ Age gap
✨️ Secret relationship
✨️ Unrequited feelings
✨️ Found family
Let’s talk about Roman!! He’s perfect, protective, possessive, dirty talking, and when he falls, he falls hard. This alpha made me swoon with all the heart melting and emotionally touching moments. He’s dark and intimidating on the outside but inside he’s a huge cuddly bear. There aren’t words to explain my feeling for everything he does to protect those he cares for, even when it breaks his heart.
This can be read as a standalone, but is the first book in a new series. Let me just say, when you get to know the Everlasting Ink family you will be hooked. This is going to be a compelling new series and I can’t wait.
This book is beautiful! The writing and pacing is well-crafted and easy to get into. There was a teeny tiny thing that I personally found a bit cringy but everything else was such perfection it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of the story one bit. This was a book I wanted to binge, but at the same time I wasn’t ready for it to end. I loved it!!
✨️ Brother’s best friend
✨️ Age gap
✨️ Secret relationship
✨️ Unrequited feelings
✨️ Found family
March 19, 2024
I’ve never read anything by Kaylee Ryan before, but I think she’s become one of my new favorite authors! The reason I first picked up “Does He Know?” is because I love a good brother’s best friend romance, and this one did not disappoint.
Roman owns a tattoo business with his four best friends, including Emerson’s older brother, Forrest. His close friendship with Forrest is the reason he tried to stop wanting Emerson, but in the end, he wasn’t able to stay away.
Emerson is in her last year of college, but spends as much time as she can with her older brother Forrest and his friends. She’s had a crush on Roman for almost her entire life, but she’d never made a move because she didn’t know he felt the same way.
I thought that Roman was such a swoony, possessive hero, and I really enjoyed how protective he was of Emerson. And Emerson! She was funny and sassy and wasn’t afraid to fight for what she wanted, especially when what she wanted was Roman.
I thought that Roman and Emerson’s love story was brilliantly written. There were also a lot of memorable side characters, including Emerson’s best friend Monroe and the other owners of Everlasting Ink (Legend, Maddox, and Lachlan). To sum it up, I will definitely be reading more books by Kaylee Ryan!
Roman owns a tattoo business with his four best friends, including Emerson’s older brother, Forrest. His close friendship with Forrest is the reason he tried to stop wanting Emerson, but in the end, he wasn’t able to stay away.
Emerson is in her last year of college, but spends as much time as she can with her older brother Forrest and his friends. She’s had a crush on Roman for almost her entire life, but she’d never made a move because she didn’t know he felt the same way.
I thought that Roman was such a swoony, possessive hero, and I really enjoyed how protective he was of Emerson. And Emerson! She was funny and sassy and wasn’t afraid to fight for what she wanted, especially when what she wanted was Roman.
I thought that Roman and Emerson’s love story was brilliantly written. There were also a lot of memorable side characters, including Emerson’s best friend Monroe and the other owners of Everlasting Ink (Legend, Maddox, and Lachlan). To sum it up, I will definitely be reading more books by Kaylee Ryan!
November 15, 2023
If you’re looking for a spicy small town romance, this is it! I’m talking the kind of book where the spice starts in the first chapter. 😮💨
This is a
~ brothers best friend
~ age gap
~ found family
~ virgin heroine
~ secret dating
~ pierced 🍆
Emerson & her brother didn’t have a good childhood which lead to them finding their own family which leads to how she met Roman, he just happens to be her older brothers best friend.
This book has such a good found family plot. We get 5 heavily tattoo’d guys who own their own shop & by every rights treat each other like family. Instead of one brother she now has 4… & Roman, but they’ve never acted like family. Kaylee did a good job keeping him separate from the found family plot.
I found this book started off with a spicy bang and then came to a slow burn. But, when Roman finally gave in & kissed her… It was worth it 💥
These two have the biggest push & pull attraction & the forbidden aspect made us even better.
This is a
~ brothers best friend
~ age gap
~ found family
~ virgin heroine
~ secret dating
~ pierced 🍆
Emerson & her brother didn’t have a good childhood which lead to them finding their own family which leads to how she met Roman, he just happens to be her older brothers best friend.
This book has such a good found family plot. We get 5 heavily tattoo’d guys who own their own shop & by every rights treat each other like family. Instead of one brother she now has 4… & Roman, but they’ve never acted like family. Kaylee did a good job keeping him separate from the found family plot.
I found this book started off with a spicy bang and then came to a slow burn. But, when Roman finally gave in & kissed her… It was worth it 💥
These two have the biggest push & pull attraction & the forbidden aspect made us even better.
November 14, 2023
4 Stars!
Kaylee Ryan has written my absolute kryptonite in romance with her brand new release and y'all, it was all hands on deck the minute this beauty landed on my kindle.
Does He Know? is the first in a brand new series, a standalone, an age gap/brother's best friend romance and if that isn't enough, just wait until you meet Emerson and Roman. Talk about that swoony, can't get enough, forbidden love they had and my heart just soared right alongside these two. A little angsty and a whole lot of swoon, heat, heart, and so so so many emotions.
I absolutely adore Kaylee and have been a huge fan from the start and y'all, I'm super excited for this new series to progress forward.
I can't recommend this author enough y'all.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Kaylee Ryan has written my absolute kryptonite in romance with her brand new release and y'all, it was all hands on deck the minute this beauty landed on my kindle.
Does He Know? is the first in a brand new series, a standalone, an age gap/brother's best friend romance and if that isn't enough, just wait until you meet Emerson and Roman. Talk about that swoony, can't get enough, forbidden love they had and my heart just soared right alongside these two. A little angsty and a whole lot of swoon, heat, heart, and so so so many emotions.
I absolutely adore Kaylee and have been a huge fan from the start and y'all, I'm super excited for this new series to progress forward.
I can't recommend this author enough y'all.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
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