The Purest Hook

The Purest Hook is a rocker story with very tragic pasts. Both Pixie and Dred both have overcome very dark childhoods that could be triggers for some readers. The story is maturely written and despite all the dark tones in the story, Pixie and Dred are the light of the story. The way they take care of each other was beautiful to read. There were a few times Dred messed up but quickly realized his mistakes. The other band members come from the same background as Dred but you don't really learn their story. I admit, it has me curious and hoping the author will write a story for each of the band members. ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the third novel in Ms. Cole's captivating series about a tattoo shop in Miami, it's owners, lovers and friends. It's suspenseful, heart rending and filled with family and love. The families are a little out of the normal range, which makes it an even more enjoyable read. Pixie (Sara-Jane Travers) has been with Second Circle Tattoos, Cujo and Trent for six years. They found her nearly unconscious on their doorstep after she was mugged and going through drug withdrawal. They picked her up, helped her through rehab and she has been a sister to them ever since. The fact that she's an amazing manager for the shop is icing on the cake. Her past is her secret to share when she's ready, if she ever is. Pixie has a small business, selling party dresses for little girls on line. She loves the work and it's starting to take off. Trent's co star and now friend on the reality tv show where they judge tattoo artists is Dred Zander. He is lead singer of the metal band Preload, and known for his amazing tattoos. He also happens to be tall, dark and very sexy. They have a running joke, Dred asks for a date, Pixie comes up with a crazy answer, but lately seems to be softening just a little bit. Dred lives eats and breathes with his band, a group of young men who met as kids sharing a childhood of pain, drug abuse and a last ditch foster home that saved their lives. They all have issues, and sharing as brothers keeps them safe. Their albums have gone platinum, they make lots of money, but being constantly on the road makes writing and recording difficult. Their manager Sam is pushing, leaks have started going public about them, and Dred can't keep Pixie off his mind. When she finally agrees to a date he jumps at the chance. But Dred and Pixie have ugly pasts, parents that were drug abusers, homes they had to run away from and the distance between Miami and Ontario. Pixie is confronted by her worst fear, and Dred is faced with the last thing he could imagine. Will the secrets make or break them? I highly recommend this series, and for full enjoyment reading it in order. It touches so many emotions and leaves you smiling. I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley for an honest review. Pat Fordyce