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Montgomery Ink #3
Harder than Words
Once best friends, now Second chances don't come along often. Indulge in heat, ink, and romance in the third book of the NYT Bestselling Montgomery Ink Series.
Meghan Montgomery-Warren thought she knew what love was when she’d married young and had two children. After years of being emotionally beaten down, her husband has finally left her and now she’s forced to find her way once again. Somehow she needs to find the person she used to be and figure that the strength she’d thought she’d lost was always there.
Luc Dodd left Denver and his best friend Meghan when he was forced to watch her walk down the aisle with another man. He might have only been her best friend, but he held his true emotions close to the vest. Now he’s back in town and in Meghan’s life. Only he needs to decide if that’s enough for him…and her.
Their journey from friends to lovers is a slow burn of seduction and pain. When Meghan’s past comes back to haunt them both, the two of them will have to stand closer together or be torn apart by their own misgivings forever.
Meghan Montgomery-Warren thought she knew what love was when she’d married young and had two children. After years of being emotionally beaten down, her husband has finally left her and now she’s forced to find her way once again. Somehow she needs to find the person she used to be and figure that the strength she’d thought she’d lost was always there.
Luc Dodd left Denver and his best friend Meghan when he was forced to watch her walk down the aisle with another man. He might have only been her best friend, but he held his true emotions close to the vest. Now he’s back in town and in Meghan’s life. Only he needs to decide if that’s enough for him…and her.
Their journey from friends to lovers is a slow burn of seduction and pain. When Meghan’s past comes back to haunt them both, the two of them will have to stand closer together or be torn apart by their own misgivings forever.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2015
376 people are currently reading
2675 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
264 books6,386 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
October 17, 2015
Luc and Meghan were the best of friends when they were younger, but Luc felt much much more for Meghan than friendship and Meghan never knew. After having to watch the woman he loved married off to another guy, Luc left town and left Meghan to travel. When he comes back, Meghan is divorced with two kids and Luc knows he can't let her get away from him again.
The friends to lovers stories aren't always my favorite and I tend to avoid them but this series has been wonderful so far and I just had to give this book a chance. I love seeing how the characters first meet, which is something we usually don't see in these types of books. With Meghan and Luc, though, it was like they were meeting for the first time. They had been close for years but now that Luc was back and ready to take their relationship to the next level, they had much more to learn about each other. I loved seeing how they had to rediscover each other and accept the change in their relationship.
The Montgomery family makes a lot of appearances in this book, like the rest of the series, and I just love them and their love for each other. I really like the closeness of the family and how they all come together to help those they care about. The family as a whole is the number one reason that I like this series and I look forward to seeing more of them.
Luc and Meghan were amazing characters and I could feel the love between them so clearly. They both had their insecurities and past issues but they worked on them together and it was refreshing to see that neither of them pushed the other away. In the beginning Meghan was shit and unsure of herself, pains leftover from her marriage, but she started to opening up around Luc which I loved seeing. They were truly the perfect couple and the chemistry between them was scorching.
Bottom line, this was another fantasitc addiction to the Montgomery Ink series. The family was amazing, as always, and learning more about Meghan and Luc's relationship was something I waited way too long to do. Definitely not putting another book in this series off again.
The friends to lovers stories aren't always my favorite and I tend to avoid them but this series has been wonderful so far and I just had to give this book a chance. I love seeing how the characters first meet, which is something we usually don't see in these types of books. With Meghan and Luc, though, it was like they were meeting for the first time. They had been close for years but now that Luc was back and ready to take their relationship to the next level, they had much more to learn about each other. I loved seeing how they had to rediscover each other and accept the change in their relationship.
The Montgomery family makes a lot of appearances in this book, like the rest of the series, and I just love them and their love for each other. I really like the closeness of the family and how they all come together to help those they care about. The family as a whole is the number one reason that I like this series and I look forward to seeing more of them.
Luc and Meghan were amazing characters and I could feel the love between them so clearly. They both had their insecurities and past issues but they worked on them together and it was refreshing to see that neither of them pushed the other away. In the beginning Meghan was shit and unsure of herself, pains leftover from her marriage, but she started to opening up around Luc which I loved seeing. They were truly the perfect couple and the chemistry between them was scorching.
Bottom line, this was another fantasitc addiction to the Montgomery Ink series. The family was amazing, as always, and learning more about Meghan and Luc's relationship was something I waited way too long to do. Definitely not putting another book in this series off again.
April 2, 2019
Luc is amazing !!!
I have been DYING for Megan's story since the very first book in this series and it was great fun. Megan has had an easy ride being married to get douch husband Richard. That guy is a twat he has worn that woman down so much. Everyone sees it but she alway out on a brave face for the kids and her family even though Richard never did. His I really do hate this guy. Even where the kids are concerned he doesn't try he never has. He wants a perfect live and he had it Megan Cliff and Sasha (who is adorable) but he alway wanted the high life. But Megan luvs her family them mean everything to her. She used to have a best friend who she felt the same way with but he left. 10 years later and he's back just when she needs him. But things aren't the same he left and she has changed she isn't the same Megan anymore. But
She couldn't hide the luv she had for him.
Luc is a great guy. He can't remember a time where he hasn't luvd Megan. She was his best friend they were alway together until Richard. It's killed him seeing them get married. But now he was back and Richard was gone well sort of. The only thing was Megan wasn't they woman he left. She second trusted everything didn't think she was good enough thought everything was her fault. This was all down to her ex and thank God he was an ex. But deep down Luc he could see the woman she was and even 10 years later there connection was still so strong. He just needed to break down Megan's walls. He knew it wasn't goin to be easy but he has let her go once he couldn't do it again.
This book was really good. The series just keeps getting better and better. I'm looking forward to the next book. I liked the overall story of this book. Sasha is adorable and Cliff is so these are Megan's kids. The way Sasha was with Luc is amazing. I luvd how Luc was willing to do anything for Megan she really did need a guy like Luc. Her family luvd him and wanted her to be happy. I really do like how this family are so close and are there for each other no matter what. It just makes the strong better. I would highly recommend this book. I'm really enjoying the series and dying to know more from this family.
I have been DYING for Megan's story since the very first book in this series and it was great fun. Megan has had an easy ride being married to get douch husband Richard. That guy is a twat he has worn that woman down so much. Everyone sees it but she alway out on a brave face for the kids and her family even though Richard never did. His I really do hate this guy. Even where the kids are concerned he doesn't try he never has. He wants a perfect live and he had it Megan Cliff and Sasha (who is adorable) but he alway wanted the high life. But Megan luvs her family them mean everything to her. She used to have a best friend who she felt the same way with but he left. 10 years later and he's back just when she needs him. But things aren't the same he left and she has changed she isn't the same Megan anymore. But
She couldn't hide the luv she had for him.
Luc is a great guy. He can't remember a time where he hasn't luvd Megan. She was his best friend they were alway together until Richard. It's killed him seeing them get married. But now he was back and Richard was gone well sort of. The only thing was Megan wasn't they woman he left. She second trusted everything didn't think she was good enough thought everything was her fault. This was all down to her ex and thank God he was an ex. But deep down Luc he could see the woman she was and even 10 years later there connection was still so strong. He just needed to break down Megan's walls. He knew it wasn't goin to be easy but he has let her go once he couldn't do it again.
This book was really good. The series just keeps getting better and better. I'm looking forward to the next book. I liked the overall story of this book. Sasha is adorable and Cliff is so these are Megan's kids. The way Sasha was with Luc is amazing. I luvd how Luc was willing to do anything for Megan she really did need a guy like Luc. Her family luvd him and wanted her to be happy. I really do like how this family are so close and are there for each other no matter what. It just makes the strong better. I would highly recommend this book. I'm really enjoying the series and dying to know more from this family.
January 20, 2018
3.5 *
This is by far my favourite in the series even though it is friends to out of each others lives to friends to lovers. I felt as if there was more depth to the plot here and to the characters. I think there could have been more build up to what happened at the end of the book, for me personally it came across as too sudden and then I felt as if it was quickly brushed under the carpet.
After three books I have finally figured out what is missing or what could be tuned down and that is the inner monologue over pages of the same repetitive thoughts of both characters.
I am getting into this series and I enjoyed it I just know it could be more.
This is by far my favourite in the series even though it is friends to out of each others lives to friends to lovers. I felt as if there was more depth to the plot here and to the characters. I think there could have been more build up to what happened at the end of the book, for me personally it came across as too sudden and then I felt as if it was quickly brushed under the carpet.
After three books I have finally figured out what is missing or what could be tuned down and that is the inner monologue over pages of the same repetitive thoughts of both characters.
I am getting into this series and I enjoyed it I just know it could be more.
Want to read
April 27, 2020🎁 Montgomery Ink Box Set 2 (Montgomery Ink #1.5, 2, 3) is FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (4/27/2020)! 🎁
June 23, 2015
4,5 stars
I've read this series up till this latest book in a little more than a month. That's pretty rare for me as I don't read many series back-to-back and I definitely don't read more than 2 or 3 books of a series in one month but ever since I read the first novella at the end of April I've been captivated by the Montgomery family and their friends. When I won a copy of this latest one on Twitter a few weeks ago, I knew I was going to try and read all the books up till then before reading this one.
And Carrie Ann Ryan didn't disappoint with the 7th story (3rd full length book) in this series. Before I reached the second chapter I was already tearing up and I knew more of those moments were coming. I also knew there was going to be a "want-to-punch-in-the-face-with-a-chair" character and I had a pretty good idea who that was going to be. And it was and the need to punch this character was predictably there too. Also I think this was the book (in this series to-date that I cried most over. It seemed like every other chapter there was a scene I had to bawl over. The tissues were definitely needed for this one.
What I love about this series, and was again it was clearly present in this book, is the sense of family and the bond between the members of the Montgomery family. They rally together to protect theirs and the ones they love and I really like series that have this as a foundation. There are still some lonely and broken souls left after the HEAs already established in this one and previous books and my heart broke for two Montgomerys of which I hope they find their happiness, though I suspect the really broken one is going to take a while.
I cant wait for the next couple's story in this series. I'm so glad I found this author and series through Twitter.
Favorite Quote:
“I’m going to kiss you, Meghan. I’m going to taste your lips, your tongue. Then I’m going to do it again. Once I can’t breathe anymore, once I can’t do anything but crave you, I’m going to walk away and let you think about what this means. I’m here, Meghan. I’m not going away. I want you. I want us.”
I've read this series up till this latest book in a little more than a month. That's pretty rare for me as I don't read many series back-to-back and I definitely don't read more than 2 or 3 books of a series in one month but ever since I read the first novella at the end of April I've been captivated by the Montgomery family and their friends. When I won a copy of this latest one on Twitter a few weeks ago, I knew I was going to try and read all the books up till then before reading this one.
And Carrie Ann Ryan didn't disappoint with the 7th story (3rd full length book) in this series. Before I reached the second chapter I was already tearing up and I knew more of those moments were coming. I also knew there was going to be a "want-to-punch-in-the-face-with-a-chair" character and I had a pretty good idea who that was going to be. And it was and the need to punch this character was predictably there too. Also I think this was the book (in this series to-date that I cried most over. It seemed like every other chapter there was a scene I had to bawl over. The tissues were definitely needed for this one.
What I love about this series, and was again it was clearly present in this book, is the sense of family and the bond between the members of the Montgomery family. They rally together to protect theirs and the ones they love and I really like series that have this as a foundation. There are still some lonely and broken souls left after the HEAs already established in this one and previous books and my heart broke for two Montgomerys of which I hope they find their happiness, though I suspect the really broken one is going to take a while.
I cant wait for the next couple's story in this series. I'm so glad I found this author and series through Twitter.
Favorite Quote:
“I’m going to kiss you, Meghan. I’m going to taste your lips, your tongue. Then I’m going to do it again. Once I can’t breathe anymore, once I can’t do anything but crave you, I’m going to walk away and let you think about what this means. I’m here, Meghan. I’m not going away. I want you. I want us.”
June 16, 2019
I really wanted to like this book more. I loved the storyline but just couldn’t get past the poor editing. Events kept happening out of order. I found myself thinking too much about whether the things had already happened or if they should have been taken care of already to lose myself in the story. And I also found myself thinking, “Didn’t I read this this same line earlier in the book?” Hopefully the next book in the series will be better.
August 4, 2015
Every time I read a book from this series I'm reminded how much I love the Montgomery family. I was so looking forward to Meghan's story, and her and Luc did not disappoint at all!! Even though Griffin's story is next, I'm really looking forward to Alex's the most!
December 13, 2021
Bea65 - per RFS
.
Fenici, avete mai amato il vostro miglior amico senza essere ricambiate? Purtroppo è quello che succede a Luc, che a vent’anni è costretto a vedere la sua miglior amica sposare un altro uomo.
Non gli ha mai espresso a voce i suoi sentimenti e perciò non può incolparla di nulla, ma rimanere lì a guardarla mentre va all’altare non è possibile, così si allontana dalla cerimonia ma anche da Denver.
Megan pensava di sapere cosa fosse l’amore, ma a vent’anni non era riuscita a capire bene che uomo fosse Richard; ora dopo nove anni di vita coniugale ne è pienamente consapevole.
Il suo matrimonio finalmente è finito, dopo anni di maltrattamenti verbali decide di allontanarsi, portando con sé i due figli.
Megan ha ripreso in mano le redini della sua vita, è tornata al lavoro nell’impresa di famiglia, si occupa di giardini e con i suoi ragazzi si sta piano piano riprendendo dagli abusi del marito.
Questo è un argomento forte molto attuale, gli attacchi verbali sono violenze psicologiche che provocano danni gravi su chi li subisce.
Il mio disprezzo verso le persone che fanno queste cose è fortissimo.
Luc torna a Denver e inizia a lavorare per l’impresa di costruzione Montgomery e vedere Megan al lavoro tutti i giorni è una sofferenza perché il suo amore per lei è ancora grande.
I due cercano di ricostruire piano piano la vecchia amicizia che li univa ma non sono più i ventenni di una volta e la vita li ha cambiati.
Però Luc non vuole più fuggire dall’amore che prova per Megan e lentamente riconquisterà la sua amicizia e le dimostrerà che è l’uomo giusto per lei.
Questo romanzo è intenso e coinvolgente, ho provato tanta rabbia e avrei voluto picchiare a sangue Richard, un uomo schifoso che per sentirsi grande umilia la moglie e tratta i figli come oggetti.
Mi fa soffrire pensare che al mondo ci sono così tante donne in questa condizione, e il più delle volte pensano di meritarsi tutto questo.
Il personaggio di Megan mi piace molto, è rinata dalle sue ceneri, la forza che dimostra quando lotta contro i demoni che l’ex marito le ha istillato, la forza con cui protegge i figli e cerca di ricostruire il rapporto con la sua famiglia, ne fanno il mio personaggio preferito.
Luc è diventato uomo lontano dagli affetti più cari perché non era riuscito a esprimere i suoi sentimenti a Megan, per fortuna crescendo è diventato più forte e consapevole di ciò che vuole e lotta per ottenerlo.
Mi ha affascinato la dolcezza con cui interagisce con i bambini di Megan.
Si è rivelato l’uomo che tutte vorrebbero avere accanto.
Ragazze, l’autrice si è rivelata ancora una volta una certezza, la sua scrittura è fluida e coinvolgente, e i suoi personaggi sono tutti da amare.
Buona lettura.
.
Fenici, avete mai amato il vostro miglior amico senza essere ricambiate? Purtroppo è quello che succede a Luc, che a vent’anni è costretto a vedere la sua miglior amica sposare un altro uomo.
Non gli ha mai espresso a voce i suoi sentimenti e perciò non può incolparla di nulla, ma rimanere lì a guardarla mentre va all’altare non è possibile, così si allontana dalla cerimonia ma anche da Denver.
Megan pensava di sapere cosa fosse l’amore, ma a vent’anni non era riuscita a capire bene che uomo fosse Richard; ora dopo nove anni di vita coniugale ne è pienamente consapevole.
Il suo matrimonio finalmente è finito, dopo anni di maltrattamenti verbali decide di allontanarsi, portando con sé i due figli.
Megan ha ripreso in mano le redini della sua vita, è tornata al lavoro nell’impresa di famiglia, si occupa di giardini e con i suoi ragazzi si sta piano piano riprendendo dagli abusi del marito.
Questo è un argomento forte molto attuale, gli attacchi verbali sono violenze psicologiche che provocano danni gravi su chi li subisce.
Il mio disprezzo verso le persone che fanno queste cose è fortissimo.
Luc torna a Denver e inizia a lavorare per l’impresa di costruzione Montgomery e vedere Megan al lavoro tutti i giorni è una sofferenza perché il suo amore per lei è ancora grande.
I due cercano di ricostruire piano piano la vecchia amicizia che li univa ma non sono più i ventenni di una volta e la vita li ha cambiati.
Però Luc non vuole più fuggire dall’amore che prova per Megan e lentamente riconquisterà la sua amicizia e le dimostrerà che è l’uomo giusto per lei.
Questo romanzo è intenso e coinvolgente, ho provato tanta rabbia e avrei voluto picchiare a sangue Richard, un uomo schifoso che per sentirsi grande umilia la moglie e tratta i figli come oggetti.
Mi fa soffrire pensare che al mondo ci sono così tante donne in questa condizione, e il più delle volte pensano di meritarsi tutto questo.
Il personaggio di Megan mi piace molto, è rinata dalle sue ceneri, la forza che dimostra quando lotta contro i demoni che l’ex marito le ha istillato, la forza con cui protegge i figli e cerca di ricostruire il rapporto con la sua famiglia, ne fanno il mio personaggio preferito.
Luc è diventato uomo lontano dagli affetti più cari perché non era riuscito a esprimere i suoi sentimenti a Megan, per fortuna crescendo è diventato più forte e consapevole di ciò che vuole e lotta per ottenerlo.
Mi ha affascinato la dolcezza con cui interagisce con i bambini di Megan.
Si è rivelato l’uomo che tutte vorrebbero avere accanto.
Ragazze, l’autrice si è rivelata ancora una volta una certezza, la sua scrittura è fluida e coinvolgente, e i suoi personaggi sono tutti da amare.
Buona lettura.
November 29, 2025
Harder Than Words - Perfection!
Harder Than Words, book 3 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author!
What an amazing book about Meghan & Luc! 💜 Loved it! Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Ex Drama, No 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
Harder Than Words, book 3 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author!
What an amazing book about Meghan & Luc! 💜 Loved it! Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Ex Drama, No 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
January 1, 2018
Another awesome read in the Montgomery Ink series. Loved Luc and his big fat heart and gentle hand.
January 2, 2018
a solid 2.5 Richard was a complete ass.
June 10, 2020
Montgomery Ink est une saga que j’aime depuis le premier tome. Je ne rate aucune sortie et souvent aussitôt dans ma PAL, aussitôt lu. Ce troisième tome n’a pas fait exception.
Nous retrouvons Meghan et Luc. Si la première est apparue dès le tome 1 et qu’on s’est douté rapidement de sa problématique, on a aperçu Luc qu’au tome précédent. Connaissant une partie de leurs histoires, j’avais hâte de me plonger dans la leur.
Meghan est une mère célibataire depuis peu, c’est une femme blessée par un mari narcissique qui lui a infligé un harcèlement moral tout le long de leur mariage. À force d’avoir entendu qu’elle n’était pas suffisante, pas à la hauteur, elle doit gérer sa nouvelle condition, ses enfants qui sont impactés par cette séparation sans vouloir demander de l’aide. Ni à ses parents, ni à ses frères et encore moins à son ancien meilleur ami.
La problématique Meghan était prévisible depuis longtemps surtout concernant son ex-mari. C’est une femme, une sœur, une maman. Ce personnage est vraiment touchant. Mais n’a pas su réellement conquérir mon cœur. Souvent trop de répétition dans ces questionnements. Et même si ces questions sont réelles et normales, c’est redondant à lire.
Luc est revenu à Denver après 10 ans de parcours de ville en ville. Mais aucune autre ville ne parlait à son cœur. Il n’est pas revenu pour Meghan, mais maintenant qu’elle est livre, l’envie de découvrir qui est-elle maintenant est très tentante.
Luc a été une agréable surprise. J’ai aimé sa maturité, sa patience et son caractère. Un personnage qu’on ne voit pas partout et c’était très agréable. Ses interactions avec les enfants de Meghan ont aussi été très attendrissantes.
J’ai aimé que l’auteure choisisse un autre tournant pour ce couple. Ce n’est pas une simple histoire entre amour de jeunesse. Ici, on est face à des adultes réfléchi et cela fait du bien. Le couple arrive sur la durée. Ce point est positif comme négatif. Cela a rajouté de la crédibilité à cette romance mais ils nous manquent encore plus une fois notre lecture finie.
Et c’est là que j’ai moins apprécié cette histoire. Les personnages du tome suivant sont déjà lancés, on a un fort rebondissement pour avoir l’épilogue tout de suite après. Il me manque des chapitres ou des pages en plus, pour vraiment apprécier ce couple.
C’est encore une fois un plaisir de retrouver la famille entière, que ce soient les couples précédents pour apprendre leur futur ou les personnages secondaires qui n’ont pas encore eu leurs propres histoires. On se pose des questions, on fait des suppositions. J’adore.
Une histoire jolie, qui se lit rapidement et facilement. Je continuerais les aventures de cette famille avec un grand plaisir mais je vais aussi tenter le spin-off qui sort prochainement.
Nous retrouvons Meghan et Luc. Si la première est apparue dès le tome 1 et qu’on s’est douté rapidement de sa problématique, on a aperçu Luc qu’au tome précédent. Connaissant une partie de leurs histoires, j’avais hâte de me plonger dans la leur.
Meghan est une mère célibataire depuis peu, c’est une femme blessée par un mari narcissique qui lui a infligé un harcèlement moral tout le long de leur mariage. À force d’avoir entendu qu’elle n’était pas suffisante, pas à la hauteur, elle doit gérer sa nouvelle condition, ses enfants qui sont impactés par cette séparation sans vouloir demander de l’aide. Ni à ses parents, ni à ses frères et encore moins à son ancien meilleur ami.
La problématique Meghan était prévisible depuis longtemps surtout concernant son ex-mari. C’est une femme, une sœur, une maman. Ce personnage est vraiment touchant. Mais n’a pas su réellement conquérir mon cœur. Souvent trop de répétition dans ces questionnements. Et même si ces questions sont réelles et normales, c’est redondant à lire.
Luc est revenu à Denver après 10 ans de parcours de ville en ville. Mais aucune autre ville ne parlait à son cœur. Il n’est pas revenu pour Meghan, mais maintenant qu’elle est livre, l’envie de découvrir qui est-elle maintenant est très tentante.
Luc a été une agréable surprise. J’ai aimé sa maturité, sa patience et son caractère. Un personnage qu’on ne voit pas partout et c’était très agréable. Ses interactions avec les enfants de Meghan ont aussi été très attendrissantes.
J’ai aimé que l’auteure choisisse un autre tournant pour ce couple. Ce n’est pas une simple histoire entre amour de jeunesse. Ici, on est face à des adultes réfléchi et cela fait du bien. Le couple arrive sur la durée. Ce point est positif comme négatif. Cela a rajouté de la crédibilité à cette romance mais ils nous manquent encore plus une fois notre lecture finie.
Et c’est là que j’ai moins apprécié cette histoire. Les personnages du tome suivant sont déjà lancés, on a un fort rebondissement pour avoir l’épilogue tout de suite après. Il me manque des chapitres ou des pages en plus, pour vraiment apprécier ce couple.
C’est encore une fois un plaisir de retrouver la famille entière, que ce soient les couples précédents pour apprendre leur futur ou les personnages secondaires qui n’ont pas encore eu leurs propres histoires. On se pose des questions, on fait des suppositions. J’adore.
Une histoire jolie, qui se lit rapidement et facilement. Je continuerais les aventures de cette famille avec un grand plaisir mais je vais aussi tenter le spin-off qui sort prochainement.
July 12, 2015
Through the earlier book in the series it was hard to see how Meagan was treated by her husband. I was glad that finally the bastard was out of the picture, but not sure how things would work Luc. Luc had his own baggage to get past.
I liked that neither of them took things fast and that Meagan's kids were involved all along. It was great to see Luc fit in with them all.
I loved how the Montgomery clan chimed in with their advice and how they all accepted Luc. Luc's family was a mixed bag, good with the exception of one sister. I was so glad that Luc called the sister out on her bad behavior.
The drama at the end left me stunned. I didn't think the weak man had it in him. While the action was horrible when it happened the aftermath left Meagan and Luc stronger and safer family unit.
I liked that neither of them took things fast and that Meagan's kids were involved all along. It was great to see Luc fit in with them all.
I loved how the Montgomery clan chimed in with their advice and how they all accepted Luc. Luc's family was a mixed bag, good with the exception of one sister. I was so glad that Luc called the sister out on her bad behavior.
The drama at the end left me stunned. I didn't think the weak man had it in him. While the action was horrible when it happened the aftermath left Meagan and Luc stronger and safer family unit.
October 14, 2015
Meghan was so emotionally beat down by her ex husband, she didn't even know who she was anymore. Luc knew he had loved Meghan when they were younger, but he didn't know her now...What he did know was that her really liked her and wanted to take the chance of making his best friend into his woman. I loved it every time he called her Sugar. And her ex was a dick, and I don't mean by abbreviation of his name.
Friends to lovers....Great story.
Looking forward to seeing more of the mysterious Autumn.
Friends to lovers....Great story.
Looking forward to seeing more of the mysterious Autumn.
June 27, 2015
I love this series. And second chances I believe in even more than that. Carrie Ann poured some heart & soul into this story, it comes to life. I found myself devouring the story. Her characters ring true, the story line is awesome, and the way she draws you into the "normal" part of this couples life is smooth as cream. Well done, well done indeed.
December 26, 2015
Quite cheesy. 3.5/5
January 19, 2016
I had been looking forward to this book and it did not disappoint.
February 24, 2020
I listened to the audio book, and I am wondering if I would have like it better if I had read it. The narration didn't do much for me. It sounded like the narrator was reading a book out loud without much emotion. The voices would change, but I didn't get a sense of feeling at any point in the book. Even after the big scene toward the end. I take that back. The only time I did pick up the emotion was during the scenes of hostility from Luc's sister and Meghan's ex husband.
The storyline was not bad, but there was way too much of the internal dialogue going on. I almost stopped listening, but felt I needed to see this through to the end.
Between the narration and internal dialogue, I have to decide if I'm going to read or listen to Griffin's book, or Alex's book. I may give the audio version one more chance.
I was glad Meghan was able to stand up to her craptastic ex, but would have really enjoyed this book if they had more toe to toe encounters where she came out on top. It would have also been nice if that final big scene hadn't felt so rushed and I could have learned about the final consequences.
The alpha male scenes (especially the ones leading up to the sexual encounters) sounded kind of wussy. I didn't think of Luc like that when reading the book description, or at the very beginning of the book. I tried to separate the dialogue from the narration, but I couldn't.
I hate to judge the book by the narration, but since I listened to it, that is an integral part of the review. this was approx. an 8 hour listen that took me almost a week to finish. I had to stop, take a break, and listen to/read other books, and go back to this one. Harder than Words would be 2.5 stars for me.
The storyline was not bad, but there was way too much of the internal dialogue going on. I almost stopped listening, but felt I needed to see this through to the end.
Between the narration and internal dialogue, I have to decide if I'm going to read or listen to Griffin's book, or Alex's book. I may give the audio version one more chance.
I was glad Meghan was able to stand up to her craptastic ex, but would have really enjoyed this book if they had more toe to toe encounters where she came out on top. It would have also been nice if that final big scene hadn't felt so rushed and I could have learned about the final consequences.
The alpha male scenes (especially the ones leading up to the sexual encounters) sounded kind of wussy. I didn't think of Luc like that when reading the book description, or at the very beginning of the book. I tried to separate the dialogue from the narration, but I couldn't.
I hate to judge the book by the narration, but since I listened to it, that is an integral part of the review. this was approx. an 8 hour listen that took me almost a week to finish. I had to stop, take a break, and listen to/read other books, and go back to this one. Harder than Words would be 2.5 stars for me.
May 12, 2023
As part of my review box set#2
My favorite of the three stories offered in this set is Meghan and Luc’s story. First and foremost, we find out that no matter what, Luc is Meghan's best friend. He loves her, or should I say, is in love with her. But, regardless he knows, he can not force what he feels, on her. So, he’s willing to win her over. And, considering her whole family knows why he left almost ten years ago on the day of her wedding. Making it easier to transition back now that she is divorced and single, although struggling. There are so many, mini-fires starting, and before the blaze can get out of control, in a blink of an eye the problem is solved. She has the children not only dealing with the divorce, but with having, to move. Not to mention, having to have a babysitter, because their mom is now having, to work. Their dad’s been gone, for over a year and still, has not bothered, to visit his children. Then, poor Luc is dealing with his older sister, Tessa who never liked, Meghan but now, despises her. The reason she feels this way is, Meghan made her brother move away from home. She is the reason he stayed away, for so long. Not only does she talk crap about, Meghan, but she continues, to do it. Even, when Luc explains, that Meghan never knew, how he felt. Because he never told her. But, she keeps on, each time getting worse than the next. Until it comes, to a head. The ending is a tear-jerker. It has all the feelers coming together so, grab a tissue. There is an aha moment that, Meghan shares with, Sasha her daughter in regards, to the two kids playing princess and knight. Cliff didn't feel like playing. Sasha wants, to know what she did wrong...
My favorite of the three stories offered in this set is Meghan and Luc’s story. First and foremost, we find out that no matter what, Luc is Meghan's best friend. He loves her, or should I say, is in love with her. But, regardless he knows, he can not force what he feels, on her. So, he’s willing to win her over. And, considering her whole family knows why he left almost ten years ago on the day of her wedding. Making it easier to transition back now that she is divorced and single, although struggling. There are so many, mini-fires starting, and before the blaze can get out of control, in a blink of an eye the problem is solved. She has the children not only dealing with the divorce, but with having, to move. Not to mention, having to have a babysitter, because their mom is now having, to work. Their dad’s been gone, for over a year and still, has not bothered, to visit his children. Then, poor Luc is dealing with his older sister, Tessa who never liked, Meghan but now, despises her. The reason she feels this way is, Meghan made her brother move away from home. She is the reason he stayed away, for so long. Not only does she talk crap about, Meghan, but she continues, to do it. Even, when Luc explains, that Meghan never knew, how he felt. Because he never told her. But, she keeps on, each time getting worse than the next. Until it comes, to a head. The ending is a tear-jerker. It has all the feelers coming together so, grab a tissue. There is an aha moment that, Meghan shares with, Sasha her daughter in regards, to the two kids playing princess and knight. Cliff didn't feel like playing. Sasha wants, to know what she did wrong...
November 9, 2025
This book was everything.
I absolutely loved watching Meghan heal and find herself again. Her journey was raw, emotional, and empowering—and my heart broke for her more than once along the way. There were moments that hit hard and others that had me making all the reader noises (yes, those ones).
Luc and Meghan together? Perfection. Their chemistry, their history, their slow reconnection—it all felt so genuine. I’ve always loved the Montgomery family, and it was so nice seeing how they surrounded Meghan with love and support. That tight-knit family dynamic is one of my favorite parts of this series, even when a few characters made me want to throw something.
This story combines so many of my favorite tropes—friends to lovers, second chance romance, and a single mom rediscovering her strength—all told through a multi-POV lens that makes the emotions hit even harder. There were a few scenes that had me on the edge of my seat, and by the end, I was so happy with how things turned out. My heart especially broke for one of Meghan’s brothers—I’m hoping we see more of him in future books (and yes, I definitely have a few theories).
Carrie Ann Ryan continues to deliver emotional, heartfelt stories that balance love, pain, and healing beautifully. Harder Than Words is another stunning addition to the Montgomery Ink world, and I can’t wait to keep going with the series.
Spice (for readers who like to know): chapters 8, 9, 10, 12, 16.
I absolutely loved watching Meghan heal and find herself again. Her journey was raw, emotional, and empowering—and my heart broke for her more than once along the way. There were moments that hit hard and others that had me making all the reader noises (yes, those ones).
Luc and Meghan together? Perfection. Their chemistry, their history, their slow reconnection—it all felt so genuine. I’ve always loved the Montgomery family, and it was so nice seeing how they surrounded Meghan with love and support. That tight-knit family dynamic is one of my favorite parts of this series, even when a few characters made me want to throw something.
This story combines so many of my favorite tropes—friends to lovers, second chance romance, and a single mom rediscovering her strength—all told through a multi-POV lens that makes the emotions hit even harder. There were a few scenes that had me on the edge of my seat, and by the end, I was so happy with how things turned out. My heart especially broke for one of Meghan’s brothers—I’m hoping we see more of him in future books (and yes, I definitely have a few theories).
Carrie Ann Ryan continues to deliver emotional, heartfelt stories that balance love, pain, and healing beautifully. Harder Than Words is another stunning addition to the Montgomery Ink world, and I can’t wait to keep going with the series.
Spice (for readers who like to know): chapters 8, 9, 10, 12, 16.
June 27, 2022
I’ve never written a review for a series as a whole, but I will for this because it’s not worth it to write individual ones when I have the same thoughts. I want to start with how much I do adore Carrie Ann Ryan. I’ve met her in person and follow her social media. As much as I like her as a person, and I’ve loved some other books, this series was just bla for me. Overall each book I listened to I found myself getting distracted and rewinding because they weren’t holding my attention. They had the set up and makings of being edgy emotional awesomeness, but I feel they all juuusssttt missed the mark. Don’t get me wrong, they were decent books, you should give them a try, but for me they just weren’t loveable quality.
I know there’s so many others out there that are just head over heels in love with the Montgomery family, and I do love the concept of such a close family, but these books were just a tad bit drawn out and repetitive that I lost interest. Hey I still listened to all of them though giving them a shot! You should too then tell me what you think! Sorry Carrie! I’m sure I’ll find something by you that I love 🙂
I know there’s so many others out there that are just head over heels in love with the Montgomery family, and I do love the concept of such a close family, but these books were just a tad bit drawn out and repetitive that I lost interest. Hey I still listened to all of them though giving them a shot! You should too then tell me what you think! Sorry Carrie! I’m sure I’ll find something by you that I love 🙂
October 3, 2019
In the last book, Meghan Montgomery was struggling in her marriage to a verbally abusive man who ultimately leaves her. Now, about a year later, she and her kids are slowly getting their lives back on track and Meghan is working as a landscaper for the Montgomery construction business. Luc Dodd was best friends with Meghan for years when they were young, but he left Denver after she married Richard - he had been in love with her but never told her and he couldn't watch her move on with another man. Now that he's back in her life (he's also back in Denver and working as an electrician for the Montgomery's) he's not going to lose her again. This is one of those books where you understand the character and what they're going through, but it's tedious reading about it. Meghan's self-confidence was shattered by Richard and she struggles to overcome all the verbal abuse he heaped on her. It made her hard to like and identify with. I did enjoy the other Montgomery's and there were some smexy times to be had with Luc, though.
January 24, 2025
"Harder than Words" by Carrie Ann Ryan is an emotionally charged and heartfelt addition to the Montgomery Ink series. This third installment delivers a beautifully crafted story of love, healing, and second chances. Meghan Montgomery-Warren’s journey to rediscovering herself after years of emotional abuse is both raw and inspiring, while Luc Dodd’s return reignites a slow-burning connection that never truly faded.
Ryan masterfully balances the tension of past wounds with the tender progression of Meghan and Luc’s romance. Their chemistry feels authentic, and the themes of trust, resilience, and self-discovery are woven seamlessly into the narrative. The added layer of suspense, as Meghan’s past threatens to disrupt their future, keeps the stakes high and the reader engaged.
This book is a perfect blend of steamy romance and emotional depth, making it a standout in the series. Fans of second-chance love stories will find themselves deeply invested in Meghan and Luc’s journey. A must-read for those who enjoy stories about overcoming adversity and finding love in unexpected places.
Ryan masterfully balances the tension of past wounds with the tender progression of Meghan and Luc’s romance. Their chemistry feels authentic, and the themes of trust, resilience, and self-discovery are woven seamlessly into the narrative. The added layer of suspense, as Meghan’s past threatens to disrupt their future, keeps the stakes high and the reader engaged.
This book is a perfect blend of steamy romance and emotional depth, making it a standout in the series. Fans of second-chance love stories will find themselves deeply invested in Meghan and Luc’s journey. A must-read for those who enjoy stories about overcoming adversity and finding love in unexpected places.
November 2, 2018
Second chance, do you believe in them. Two best friends who find their way to each other's hearts. Luc Dobbs, left town when his best friend Meghan married another man. He was in love with her, and he couldn't face living in the same town as she married a man that was not right for her. Ten years have passed and Luc finally came home, what he hadn't expected is that Meghan abusive husband had left her stating that she was no longer the wife he needed or family. Devastated of the events Meghan Montgomery-Warren had to learn to fight for herself and her children, but when her best friend that she hadn't seen for over 10 years walked back into her life, could she learn to love and trust another man, could she lean on him as she fought for her against her husband to gain full custody of her babies. Take a chance on this book it's filled with emotions, and love, that will make you cry. I so love this one.
August 11, 2021
In questo libro vedo un cambiamento sulla scrittura dell’autrice, forse essendo al terzo libro ha iniziato a prendere più confidenza con i personaggi o non so…
Come in ogni suo libro mi piace che si intrecciano i protagonisti, quindi anche se la storia principale è su alcuni di loro non vengono lasciati indietro gli altri che fanno solo delle apparizioni, ma li si può continuare a vivere e iniziare a conoscere.
Questo intreccio mi fa legare sempre di più ai personaggi.
In questo vediamo la lotta di una mamma, per i suoi figli e riavere la sua vita, ma vediamo anche un amore che ritorna, una persona che ritorna ad amare e lasciarsi amare.
Una donna che è stata annullata che ritorna a vivere e ad appoggiarsi ad altri.
Perché una persona che chiede aiuto o si appoggia non vuol dire che sia debole. Mai!
Una storia che ho amato dalla prima all’ultima pagina, e che mi ha lasciato davvero un bel ricordo.
Ma la storia di tutti loro non finisce qui…
Come in ogni suo libro mi piace che si intrecciano i protagonisti, quindi anche se la storia principale è su alcuni di loro non vengono lasciati indietro gli altri che fanno solo delle apparizioni, ma li si può continuare a vivere e iniziare a conoscere.
Questo intreccio mi fa legare sempre di più ai personaggi.
In questo vediamo la lotta di una mamma, per i suoi figli e riavere la sua vita, ma vediamo anche un amore che ritorna, una persona che ritorna ad amare e lasciarsi amare.
Una donna che è stata annullata che ritorna a vivere e ad appoggiarsi ad altri.
Perché una persona che chiede aiuto o si appoggia non vuol dire che sia debole. Mai!
Una storia che ho amato dalla prima all’ultima pagina, e che mi ha lasciato davvero un bel ricordo.
Ma la storia di tutti loro non finisce qui…
February 28, 2023
Ho adorato Luc e la passione e la forza che ha dimostrato per Meghan e la sua famiglia.
È bello vedere rinascere Meghan anche se questa parte viene sottovalutata nel libro e non messa in risalto come dovrebbe.
È passato un anno da quando Richard ha lasciato Meghan ma i fantasmi del passato tornano sempre sia nella sua testa che nella realtà ed è qui che entra in gioco il suo migliore amico Luc, innamorato di lei da sempre e pronto a mettersi in gioco per difendere le persone che ama di più.
Ho adorato la piccola Sasha, un uragano d’energia che mi aveva ai suoi piedi.
Non so se è un errore di traduzione o proprio una disattenzione dell’autrice perpetua ma dall’inizio nomina Decker e Miranda come sposi quando in verità si sposano verso la fine del libro e affrontano proprio con Luc l’argomento matrimonio, questa cosa mi ha lasciata un po’ basita ma sono comunque curiosa di conoscere tutti i Montgomery
È bello vedere rinascere Meghan anche se questa parte viene sottovalutata nel libro e non messa in risalto come dovrebbe.
È passato un anno da quando Richard ha lasciato Meghan ma i fantasmi del passato tornano sempre sia nella sua testa che nella realtà ed è qui che entra in gioco il suo migliore amico Luc, innamorato di lei da sempre e pronto a mettersi in gioco per difendere le persone che ama di più.
Ho adorato la piccola Sasha, un uragano d’energia che mi aveva ai suoi piedi.
Non so se è un errore di traduzione o proprio una disattenzione dell’autrice perpetua ma dall’inizio nomina Decker e Miranda come sposi quando in verità si sposano verso la fine del libro e affrontano proprio con Luc l’argomento matrimonio, questa cosa mi ha lasciata un po’ basita ma sono comunque curiosa di conoscere tutti i Montgomery
April 23, 2019
I have to admit, this blurb did not entice me as the first few book s did. For that reason I put off picking this one up to read. I am glad I finally did read it as I love this family and you get lots of them throughout the book as we follow Meghan and Luc through their relationship. Although it did have a different feel as Meghan is a divorced mother of two kids and was dealing with her ex-husband while reconnecting to her long-time best friend who left town for 10 years ago. Luc left during Meghan wedding as he couldn't watch her with another man as he had feelings for her that she didn't know about.
Maybe because the storyline was not unique for me, it felt more a bit of a filler book so each Montgomery kid had their own story arc. It was still enjoyable, but very predictable.
Looking forward to the next sibling :).
Maybe because the storyline was not unique for me, it felt more a bit of a filler book so each Montgomery kid had their own story arc. It was still enjoyable, but very predictable.
Looking forward to the next sibling :).
July 15, 2017
Book 3 in the series. Have it in Audio . Hero is Luc Dodd . Heroine is Megan .
Megan meets her best friend, Luc again . Luc left Denver when Megan was getting married to another guy , Luc loved Megan . before she walked down the isle . After 10 yrs of roaming the US . Luc goes back to Denver and ask the Montgomery twins for work .
Megan husband left her and there 2 children. Richard the ex always put her down , abused her verbally and emotionally. Richard belittle her in every way . Richard walked out on their marriage and after a yr both Megan and Richard got a divorce.
Luc comes back into town and meets Megan at the company Wes and Storm (the twins ) own . What happens when they meet and does Luc tell Megan why he walked out. Does the love get returned
Megan meets her best friend, Luc again . Luc left Denver when Megan was getting married to another guy , Luc loved Megan . before she walked down the isle . After 10 yrs of roaming the US . Luc goes back to Denver and ask the Montgomery twins for work .
Megan husband left her and there 2 children. Richard the ex always put her down , abused her verbally and emotionally. Richard belittle her in every way . Richard walked out on their marriage and after a yr both Megan and Richard got a divorce.
Luc comes back into town and meets Megan at the company Wes and Storm (the twins ) own . What happens when they meet and does Luc tell Megan why he walked out. Does the love get returned
October 21, 2017
Another great book
I loved this story! It was a a great continuation to the Montgomery series. We get to see Meghan finally find her happy ever after. We have gotten to see her struggle through the rest of the books and in this one she is finally standing on her own, but almost too much. She has a great, supportive family that just wants the best for her and her kids but she doesn’t want to become what she let her marriage beat her into. Luc steps in and is great at getting her to see that having support and using it doesn’t make her weak or take away her independence. I loved getting to see these two best friends finally get their chance together. I can’t wait for the next book!
I loved this story! It was a a great continuation to the Montgomery series. We get to see Meghan finally find her happy ever after. We have gotten to see her struggle through the rest of the books and in this one she is finally standing on her own, but almost too much. She has a great, supportive family that just wants the best for her and her kids but she doesn’t want to become what she let her marriage beat her into. Luc steps in and is great at getting her to see that having support and using it doesn’t make her weak or take away her independence. I loved getting to see these two best friends finally get their chance together. I can’t wait for the next book!
March 27, 2023
Luc moves back to Denver to work with the Montgomerys and needs to learn how to deal with his former best friend and first love. Meghan never realized that Luc left because he couldn't stand to see her married to Richard. When Meghan and Richard get divorced, Meghan goes back to work for her family and is so stubborn she won't let anyone help her. When she needs a ride one day Luc volunteers and they start spending time together and get to know each other all over again. They have both changed in ten years and now Meghan has two kids. Luc and the kids get along really well. When Meghan's ex comes back to cause trouble Luc lets Meghan know that he will stand by her. Meghan and Luc decide to see where their relationship will go. Loved this book!!
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