Scan barcode
lzw's review
4.0
Brand Me is book two in the Imagine Ink series by Verlene Landon that I gave 4 out of 5 stars. Each book in the series revolves around a different couple, and can be read as a stand-alone or part of a series as each book introduces the other couples. Warning: this book covers difficult and emotional subjects such as rape and sexual assault. The novel is from the main character’s POV, Tori Reid.
Tori Reid thinks she has it all! She has loving friends and family, and a boyfriend she is mad about. But everything isn’t perfect. Her friends hate her married boyfriend, Richard, and he hasn’t left his wife yet because he’s concerned about their children. She is trusting that he will leave her soon, and ignores her friends pleas to dump him. He isn’t exactly Prince Charming either, and doesn’t treat Tori as a woman should be treated. Then suddenly, Richard invites her for a three-month vacation. Tori thinks this is a game changer for their relationship, and is over the moon to leave with him. But when they get to the cabin secrets emerge. Is he the man she thinks he is? Does he even want a future with her?
Michael Brande is a gorgeous and hardworking guy. He’s a personal trainer, pilot, and plays in a rock band. Of course he has groupies, and women throwing themselves at him-not that he minds. Just having broken up with his girl, he knows the best thing is to get away to the cabin to regroup. Then he sees Tori, and she is all he can think about. He didn’t expect to meet the woman of his dreams right now. She seems to feel the instant connection too. But he has issues in his past that resurface, and some damage can’t be repaired. Can broken people find love?
Will Tori finally see the real Richard, and run to Michael? What happens when Richard finds out the chemistry between Tori and Michael? You will have to read to find out! This story has amazingly detailed characters with rich background stories and traumas. There are so many issues that all three characters are hiding from each other that you will blaze through this book to find out what happens! Can’t wait to read the other two in this amazing series!
Tori Reid thinks she has it all! She has loving friends and family, and a boyfriend she is mad about. But everything isn’t perfect. Her friends hate her married boyfriend, Richard, and he hasn’t left his wife yet because he’s concerned about their children. She is trusting that he will leave her soon, and ignores her friends pleas to dump him. He isn’t exactly Prince Charming either, and doesn’t treat Tori as a woman should be treated. Then suddenly, Richard invites her for a three-month vacation. Tori thinks this is a game changer for their relationship, and is over the moon to leave with him. But when they get to the cabin secrets emerge. Is he the man she thinks he is? Does he even want a future with her?
Michael Brande is a gorgeous and hardworking guy. He’s a personal trainer, pilot, and plays in a rock band. Of course he has groupies, and women throwing themselves at him-not that he minds. Just having broken up with his girl, he knows the best thing is to get away to the cabin to regroup. Then he sees Tori, and she is all he can think about. He didn’t expect to meet the woman of his dreams right now. She seems to feel the instant connection too. But he has issues in his past that resurface, and some damage can’t be repaired. Can broken people find love?
Will Tori finally see the real Richard, and run to Michael? What happens when Richard finds out the chemistry between Tori and Michael? You will have to read to find out! This story has amazingly detailed characters with rich background stories and traumas. There are so many issues that all three characters are hiding from each other that you will blaze through this book to find out what happens! Can’t wait to read the other two in this amazing series!
way2gosmartguy's review
4.0
Brand Me by Verlene Landon is the second book in the Imagine Ink series. I did not notice it was a series when I started it, and did not read the first book, Indelible You. Over all I enjoyed the book, but had a hard time keeping up with the characters. A lot of people were mentioned throughout the book, briefly, only to be brought up again chapters later. I had a hard time remembering who is who, but now knowing the first book in the series focuses on some of them, it makes sense. So the book can be read as a stand alone, but for a better understanding of the back story, probably read book one! The book has trigger warnings about mental and sexual abuse, including rape. The story kept me thoroughly engaged, and I enjoyed it. It was a little too much erotica for me, as I typically enjoy romance novels, but the cleaner side of the spectrum. The character's emotions were strong, and I fell in love with the realness of it. This book is a 4 star for me, and I will be reading book 1 next.
Tori Reid is a successful woman, with a great career, and plans to open her own business soon. She is dating Richard, who her friends arent fond of, but she ignores their worries and has dated him for a long time. He invites her to a 3 month vacation, at his family cabins in the middle of nowhere, and she excitedly goes along. She is expecting romance and hoping for this trip to take their relationship to the next level.
Michael Brande is a single, sexy playboy- musician and personal trainer, and a ladies man. He has recently ended his engagement, after finding his fiance and best friend in the sack together. He is glad for the timing of his mandatory trip to his family cabins, to fulfill his dad's will wishes, but doesnt look forward to the brother he must spend the time with.
Tori and Michael meet on the plane, and are instantly attracted to each other, but fight it. Perhaps its fate that brings them together? Both end up at the same set of cabins, in the middle of no where, and by chance, or perhaps fate, are brought together. In addition to the physical attraction, they have a lot in common and really hit it off. Michael is going through some personal hardships, and slipping into a depression. Tori suddenly sees Richard for what he really is, and begins to notice all his verbal abuse. Tori and Michael may be perfect for each other, or may just be enough of a support to each other to each get through their relationship and personal issues.
Tori Reid is a successful woman, with a great career, and plans to open her own business soon. She is dating Richard, who her friends arent fond of, but she ignores their worries and has dated him for a long time. He invites her to a 3 month vacation, at his family cabins in the middle of nowhere, and she excitedly goes along. She is expecting romance and hoping for this trip to take their relationship to the next level.
Michael Brande is a single, sexy playboy- musician and personal trainer, and a ladies man. He has recently ended his engagement, after finding his fiance and best friend in the sack together. He is glad for the timing of his mandatory trip to his family cabins, to fulfill his dad's will wishes, but doesnt look forward to the brother he must spend the time with.
Tori and Michael meet on the plane, and are instantly attracted to each other, but fight it. Perhaps its fate that brings them together? Both end up at the same set of cabins, in the middle of no where, and by chance, or perhaps fate, are brought together. In addition to the physical attraction, they have a lot in common and really hit it off. Michael is going through some personal hardships, and slipping into a depression. Tori suddenly sees Richard for what he really is, and begins to notice all his verbal abuse. Tori and Michael may be perfect for each other, or may just be enough of a support to each other to each get through their relationship and personal issues.
katie_83's review
4.0
4 star review
Brand Me by Verlene Landon is the second book in the Imagine Ink series. Although it is a standalone novel the author recommends that they are read in order for a better reading experience and I would agree. I have read one other book in this series which happens to be book 3 and I have a better understanding of what goes on in that book after reading this one! It should be noted that there is a trigger warning for this book as it touches on subjects of mental, physical and sexual abuse. All very sensitive subjects but what I like about this author is the way in which she writes about them, they are never easy to read about in stories but sadly they do happen and this author is very sensitive in the way in which she writes about them – a credit to her as an author I feel.
Brand Me is Tori and Michael’s story. Tori thinks she has everything she’s ever wanted, or she’s on that way to that and when her boyfriend Richard invites her on a 3 month vacation she thinks that he is finally going to pop the question but on the way to the vacation she meets Michael and all of her expectations suddenly change. Everything about Michael scream playboy but she can’t seem to take her eyes off him! Michael’s mandatory trip to Tennessee couldn’t have come at a better time, he needed to get away from his cheating ex-fiancé who is trying to worm her way back into his life. Both Tori and Michael are about to learn some truths that are painful but sometimes pain in necessary for salvation!
I did like the characters in the story (except Richard!!). Tori was such a strong person but also vulnerable in many ways. It must have been difficult for her especially with her job that she couldn’t see what was actually happening to her until it was almost too late. She was really kind and caring towards Michael and once she realised what his issues were she was desperate to help him. I really was rooting for this couple as I thought that they would be good for each other.
If you are looking for an intense read that touches on some sensitive subjects with character that you will root for then I definitely recommend Brand Me by Verlene Landon. I will certainly be looking for the other books in the series!
Brand Me by Verlene Landon is the second book in the Imagine Ink series. Although it is a standalone novel the author recommends that they are read in order for a better reading experience and I would agree. I have read one other book in this series which happens to be book 3 and I have a better understanding of what goes on in that book after reading this one! It should be noted that there is a trigger warning for this book as it touches on subjects of mental, physical and sexual abuse. All very sensitive subjects but what I like about this author is the way in which she writes about them, they are never easy to read about in stories but sadly they do happen and this author is very sensitive in the way in which she writes about them – a credit to her as an author I feel.
Brand Me is Tori and Michael’s story. Tori thinks she has everything she’s ever wanted, or she’s on that way to that and when her boyfriend Richard invites her on a 3 month vacation she thinks that he is finally going to pop the question but on the way to the vacation she meets Michael and all of her expectations suddenly change. Everything about Michael scream playboy but she can’t seem to take her eyes off him! Michael’s mandatory trip to Tennessee couldn’t have come at a better time, he needed to get away from his cheating ex-fiancé who is trying to worm her way back into his life. Both Tori and Michael are about to learn some truths that are painful but sometimes pain in necessary for salvation!
I did like the characters in the story (except Richard!!). Tori was such a strong person but also vulnerable in many ways. It must have been difficult for her especially with her job that she couldn’t see what was actually happening to her until it was almost too late. She was really kind and caring towards Michael and once she realised what his issues were she was desperate to help him. I really was rooting for this couple as I thought that they would be good for each other.
If you are looking for an intense read that touches on some sensitive subjects with character that you will root for then I definitely recommend Brand Me by Verlene Landon. I will certainly be looking for the other books in the series!
lisa01's review
5.0
Brand Me (Imagine Ink Book 2) by Verlene Landon Rated 5 stars
Tori is a, in her thirties, strong woman who has a list of things she want to get accomplished before she gets any older. She is opening a business with her two best friends and dating a guy she has hopes of marrying. If only he could finalize his divorce then they could move forward. Sadly her friends don't care for Richard, apparently they never see the side of him she does. She plans on meeting him at the family cabins in Tennessee and stay for a couple months since he has something to do out there. On the flight there she meets the guy of her dreams and it just so happens he is going to almost the same place she is. Maybe she needs to reassess her relationship with Richard.
Michael is a late twenties airplane pilot, personal trainer and the lead guitarist in a rock band. So basically he has it all….brains, good looks and a hot body. Having just broke it off with his fiancée, since he caught her cheating with his best friend, he is looking forward to a few months of solitude to straighten some things out in his life. He has been impotent for a while now which weighs heavily on his mind. As he gets on the plane he sees the passenger and freezes. She was in his dreams last night and she is just as hot in person. He wonders if she is available or if she has a boyfriend. On arrival he stays in town before heading to the cabin. He ends up having a terrible thing happen that messes him up for a while. Once at the cabin he wonders where Tori is staying and if he can meet up with her. He wonders how serious it is with her boyfriend.
When Tori and Michael meet up can they make anything last since each has many issues they bring to the table?
I was surprised at the content of this story. Rape is always a touchy subject but even more so in this book. I never realized how some things mess so much with your head. The scene of them making love then him thinking she was Wendy. O m g! Then the things he said to her after...so cutting! I thought it would be difficult to forgive him. Thank goodness she has some counselor training that allows her to see past some of that. Not sure I would be so forgiving. Also the private moments between them after they first meet up….bestill my heart. I'm not sure who wouldn't want someone who does that for them. Curious?? Read the book! Great characters and great story! There is a lot going on so make sure you pay attention.
Tori is a, in her thirties, strong woman who has a list of things she want to get accomplished before she gets any older. She is opening a business with her two best friends and dating a guy she has hopes of marrying. If only he could finalize his divorce then they could move forward. Sadly her friends don't care for Richard, apparently they never see the side of him she does. She plans on meeting him at the family cabins in Tennessee and stay for a couple months since he has something to do out there. On the flight there she meets the guy of her dreams and it just so happens he is going to almost the same place she is. Maybe she needs to reassess her relationship with Richard.
Michael is a late twenties airplane pilot, personal trainer and the lead guitarist in a rock band. So basically he has it all….brains, good looks and a hot body. Having just broke it off with his fiancée, since he caught her cheating with his best friend, he is looking forward to a few months of solitude to straighten some things out in his life. He has been impotent for a while now which weighs heavily on his mind. As he gets on the plane he sees the passenger and freezes. She was in his dreams last night and she is just as hot in person. He wonders if she is available or if she has a boyfriend. On arrival he stays in town before heading to the cabin. He ends up having a terrible thing happen that messes him up for a while. Once at the cabin he wonders where Tori is staying and if he can meet up with her. He wonders how serious it is with her boyfriend.
When Tori and Michael meet up can they make anything last since each has many issues they bring to the table?
I was surprised at the content of this story. Rape is always a touchy subject but even more so in this book. I never realized how some things mess so much with your head. The scene of them making love then him thinking she was Wendy. O m g! Then the things he said to her after...so cutting! I thought it would be difficult to forgive him. Thank goodness she has some counselor training that allows her to see past some of that. Not sure I would be so forgiving. Also the private moments between them after they first meet up….bestill my heart. I'm not sure who wouldn't want someone who does that for them. Curious?? Read the book! Great characters and great story! There is a lot going on so make sure you pay attention.
bwagner's review
4.0
Brand Me (Imagine Ink Book 2) by Verlene Landon is the second book in Imagine Ink series. This book is a dark romance that will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. This story is about how love and truth are sometimes painful but necessary if love is to survive. The characters in this story will pull you into their world of lust, greed, love and pain.
Tori Reid is a woman who thinks that she has it all. When her boyfriend invites her to the family cottage for three months, she thinks that he is ready to tell her that he is leaving his wife and asking her to marry him. What will happen when she gets there? What will happen to her when she finds out the truth? The one thing she didn't expect is to meet him on the plane to the cottage. Will he change her life? The attraction is there, will she act on it? Will she move on from her boyfriend?
Michael Brande is a playboy who has broken his engagement off with his fiance and has been jumping from bed to bed without a care in the world. When a mandatory trip to Tennessee comes up, it couldn't come at a better time, will it be the time he needs to get away? On the plane ride is where he meets her. He knows that he must have her. Just when he thought things couldn't get any worse, he finds out a family secret. What is it, will it destroy him? He has a secret shame, will she help him over come it? When rumors start flying around, will he convince her they are not true or are they?
Tori and Michael's story is one that is emotional from the start. When he finds out who she is, will he still feel the same for her? Will they act on their attraction? Truths and lies seem to effect their relationship, will they move past this? Their story is a page turner from beginning to end. They have their ups and downs but what will the end have in store for them?
This is my first read by Verlene Landon. Verlene was born and raised in the south. She has been able to travel the US because of the military but now calls Sin City home. She has survived throwing grenades, tear gas chambers and forced marches down a road but to her nothing is more brutal then writing. This story is dark from beginning to end but you will love reading it and it will have you wanting more. I highly suggest this story as I know you will love it as much as I have.
Tori Reid is a woman who thinks that she has it all. When her boyfriend invites her to the family cottage for three months, she thinks that he is ready to tell her that he is leaving his wife and asking her to marry him. What will happen when she gets there? What will happen to her when she finds out the truth? The one thing she didn't expect is to meet him on the plane to the cottage. Will he change her life? The attraction is there, will she act on it? Will she move on from her boyfriend?
Michael Brande is a playboy who has broken his engagement off with his fiance and has been jumping from bed to bed without a care in the world. When a mandatory trip to Tennessee comes up, it couldn't come at a better time, will it be the time he needs to get away? On the plane ride is where he meets her. He knows that he must have her. Just when he thought things couldn't get any worse, he finds out a family secret. What is it, will it destroy him? He has a secret shame, will she help him over come it? When rumors start flying around, will he convince her they are not true or are they?
Tori and Michael's story is one that is emotional from the start. When he finds out who she is, will he still feel the same for her? Will they act on their attraction? Truths and lies seem to effect their relationship, will they move past this? Their story is a page turner from beginning to end. They have their ups and downs but what will the end have in store for them?
This is my first read by Verlene Landon. Verlene was born and raised in the south. She has been able to travel the US because of the military but now calls Sin City home. She has survived throwing grenades, tear gas chambers and forced marches down a road but to her nothing is more brutal then writing. This story is dark from beginning to end but you will love reading it and it will have you wanting more. I highly suggest this story as I know you will love it as much as I have.
rooskie87's review
4.0
Brand Me by Verlene Landon
4 stars
Brand Me by Verlene Landon was a 4 star read for me. Had an interesting storyline, likeable characters and some twists and turns that weren't what you'd expect. This book does touch on the topic of rape, but it was done in a way that not many have touched on before. Told in dual POV of the two main characters, Tori and Michael.
Tori has been dating a married man for what seems like forever. She believes him when he says they are separated and he's finally going to divorce his wife, but until that happens Tori forbids sexual contact with him. When Richard, her boyfriend, invites her out for a 3 month vacation in his families secluded cabins, she thinks he's finally going to pop the question. When she meets Michael on the plane, she starts to feel the stirrings of attraction despite him not being the type of man she usually goes for. Upon arriving at the cabin, she's in for a shock as to what Richard actually wanted her out there for. When she happens to run into an injured Michael on the same cabin space, she nurses his injury and also learns of a secret that's eating him alive. Will she be able to help him, but also know she can't fall for him as he'll never forgive her for who her boyfriend is?
Michael is tired and needs to get away, so going to his families cabins for 3 months couldn't have come at a better time. Needing to get away from his cheating ex fiancé and the rumors of his playboy ways, which with his little problem can't be true. Upon arriving in town he stays in a hotel before heading up the mountain where the unspeakable happens. Feeling as though it was all his fault, its eating him up inside. When he sees tori again, will he be able to resist her, even when he finds out who her boyfriend is? Can he also get some help and closure to what happened in town?
4 stars
Brand Me by Verlene Landon was a 4 star read for me. Had an interesting storyline, likeable characters and some twists and turns that weren't what you'd expect. This book does touch on the topic of rape, but it was done in a way that not many have touched on before. Told in dual POV of the two main characters, Tori and Michael.
Tori has been dating a married man for what seems like forever. She believes him when he says they are separated and he's finally going to divorce his wife, but until that happens Tori forbids sexual contact with him. When Richard, her boyfriend, invites her out for a 3 month vacation in his families secluded cabins, she thinks he's finally going to pop the question. When she meets Michael on the plane, she starts to feel the stirrings of attraction despite him not being the type of man she usually goes for. Upon arriving at the cabin, she's in for a shock as to what Richard actually wanted her out there for. When she happens to run into an injured Michael on the same cabin space, she nurses his injury and also learns of a secret that's eating him alive. Will she be able to help him, but also know she can't fall for him as he'll never forgive her for who her boyfriend is?
Michael is tired and needs to get away, so going to his families cabins for 3 months couldn't have come at a better time. Needing to get away from his cheating ex fiancé and the rumors of his playboy ways, which with his little problem can't be true. Upon arriving in town he stays in a hotel before heading up the mountain where the unspeakable happens. Feeling as though it was all his fault, its eating him up inside. When he sees tori again, will he be able to resist her, even when he finds out who her boyfriend is? Can he also get some help and closure to what happened in town?
More...