A review by desertlover
Shameless by Lex Martin

4.0

I am a huge fan of Lex Martin's Dearest Series and was thrilled when she announced a spin-off. Brady plays a minor role in that series and you definitely don't have to read them in order to enjoy this one. However, it is one of my favorite NA series, and I highly recommend them if you are looking an awesome NA experience. Brady may come off as a "bad boy" but he really is a good man and has a heart of gold. That is evident from the early chapters when his world is turned completely upside down.

"I'm sorry brother. You had a beautiful dream."

Katherine does not appear in any of the Dearest books, but I adored her character right away. She has a sweet and nurturing personality. She and Brady are dealing with heavy and life changing issues, but the book never feels sad or depressing. Right away these two seem to share a connection. Isabella, Brady's niece, is adorable and completely steals the spotlight. Some of my favorite moments are with her and Brady. How can a big, tattoo artist, be such a softie for a little girl? I also enjoyed all the tension between Brady and Katherine. This is definitely a slow burn in the beginning. I felt like singing "Kiss the Girl," throughout several chapters. The two have sexual chemistry, and once things take off, they really get quite hot. It was always obvious at some point, one or both of them would have their heart involved.

...Brady makes me want to take risks.

While reading, I often become so involved with the people, I overlook the background and minor details, but that is not the case here. The setting is a vital aspect and added depth and uniqueness to this book. It's obvious that Lex Martin is either familiar or has Texas in her soul. I appreciated all the small details and nuances she includes about the region and the farm. I could close my eyes and see the lavender fields. All the town people and little critters added a sweet and endearing charm. The book would not have felt the same without it.

I adored this book, but do have a few minor complaints. Even though it is a spin off, I was sad there are no appearances from the Dearest clan. Secondly, Lex Martin writes good steamy scenes, but there are times when I felt it distracted from the progression of the story. Lastly, I wanted more at the end, but then again, I usually do. Despite these few small issues, I really enjoyed Brady and Katherine and hope to see them again.

If you are looking for a sexy but sweet, friends to lovers romance, I recommend this one for you! Some of the story line is melancholy in the beginning, but it never felt more than a light hearted read. I cannot wait for whatever Lex Martin writes next.