Inked Expressions

Montgomery Ink #7

by Carrie Ann Ryan

The Montgomery Ink Series from NYT Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan continues with the brother who keeps his secret and the one woman he shouldn’t want.

Everly Law married the love of her life and on the eve of giving birth to their twins, lost him in a tragic accident. Now she’s a single mother working overtime at her bookstore trying to make sure her boys have the life they deserve. Her life is busy enough without her adding dating a Montgomery. As past secrets come to light, she’ll need Storm more than ever—even if she doesn’t realize it.

Storm Montgomery has spent his life atoning for sins that only few know he’s committed. When he lost his best friend, he promised his widow that he’d always be there for her—even when she wanted nothing to do with him. But when a single touch ignites passions they’ve both buried deep inside, he’ll have to remember exactly who is in his arms and that taking chances might be far more dangerous than they bargained for.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Erotica, Friends To Lovers, Audiobook, Family

ebook

First published June 6, 2017

About the author

Carrie 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.

Reviews

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon * Barnes & Noble



Inked Expressions follows Storm Montgomery as he tries to navigate a complicated friendship with his deceased best friends widow. Everly Law was happy in her marriage, and she's happy now even with her husband gone and taking care of her twin boys. But that doesn't mean she doesn't need help sometimes with raising two children. Enter Storm, a man she knows she shouldn't want in such a indecent way, but a man she can't deny she has feelings for.

I was a little nervous going into this one because of the death of Everly's husband. Sometimes with deceased characters I feel like they can take over the story and the plot gets too involved in the past. But with this book I actually didn't have any complaints. Everly's husband wasn't brought up in such a way that it took away from her and Storm's story and I was really happy about that since they were so great together.

I loved getting to see Storm bring Everly out of her comfort zone and make her realize her place in the world was more than just being a mother. They were wonderful together and when secrets starting coming up from the past they always stuck by one another, which was amazing.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been a huge fan of Carrie Ann Ryan’s Montgomery Ink series since its inception and I’ve been waiting for Storm’s book because he always seemed to be a bit mysterious and edgy so I was excited to read Inked Expressions. While I enjoyed this book, I kind of felt like the romance got a bit lost with everything else going on in this story. A bit of suspense and some unfathomable news coming to light is tempered with happy health news, new love, and supreme sexiness making this an entertaining story.

Storm Montgomery and Everly Law have known each other for over 10 years when she was dating his best friend Jackson, after Jackson’s death and the birth of their twins, Storm remained in her and her son’s lives, but their friendship has had ups and downs especially recently. When one of her son’s has a medical emergency, Storm is there for them all rekindling their friendship and making them both face that something more lurks beneath the surface.

I really loved the way Storm stepped up to help Everly through many difficult situations in this book and although at times he overstepped it wasn’t done maliciously, he truly wanted to stand up for her and make her life easier. I liked they were both confused about their growing feelings for one another and that they both put James and Nathan’s needs before their own. I’ll admit I felt that there was a bit too much thrown at Everly all at one time, at times some of the situations felt a bit contrived, however it forced her to understand she had people in her life who were there to help her if she would allow them to. Both Storm and Everly found it easy to confide in one another something they both had doing with other people.

Going from friends to lovers wasn’t a stretch given their history and while it took a while for them both to be comfortable with the change in their relationship, there was no denying the heat between them or the love they shared.

While not my favorite in this series, I enjoyed Ink Expressions quite a lot and am really looking forward to what Ms. Ryan has in store for Storm’s twin, Wes, in the next book.

ARC provided for a voluntary review

[Sofia Lazaridou · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started Inked expressions I should have known that Carrie Ryan's books are like a box of cookies to me. I cannot stop at one cookie nor on one chapter.I was supposed to read the book in my breaks from studying, but I ended up cheating and reading more than one each time so I gave up trying to do that and continued reading the whole book in one sitting. I will admit that I wasn't always sucked in the story. I hated the idea that yet again, a woman who was with the hero of the book in this series will end with another. We have already done that in the fifth book, do we need to repeat that storyline? I am not into this thing to be honest and I am 99% sure it will taint my reading experience with the next book as it did with this one. Jillian is going to be a great heroine from what I have seen, but I won't be completely ok with her relationship with Wes. (Pls note that if Jilian was male and Wes female, I would still have a problem with that).

Storm is a lovely hero. I don't understand why he had to keep his secret from his family for the last 20 years. They are all so kind and understanding. He the good guy. He was hurting, but he stilled helped other people. Everly wasn't always the easiest person to understand, but she was nice. For me, she was picking up the wrong fights. I couldn't understand her feelings for her relationship with Storm's family. She kept bringing his family up and I couldn't see her reasons for feeling that way. She needed more time to develop and express herself.

I liked the book and I would recommend it. It made me want to go back and read the series from the beginning. It wasn't the best addition to the series, but it was good.

[Kathleen R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Inked Expressions
Author: Carrie Ann Ryan

5 amazing stars



I've been following Carrie Ann Ryan's releases for a while now and i love how diverse she is. I now that whether she writes her paranormal genre or her alpha men, i'm in for a treat - one that i'll need a fan to make it through her book because it's that hot! I've read the majority of the Montgomery Ink series and just when I think I've found my favorite couple, along comes a new adventure, a new story and a new couple to 'beat'.

4.5 sexy dreams



Everly and Storm's story touched me - it was emotional, full of love and had a backstory that i'm so glad i got to read because for as long as i can remember, i've always wondered what Storm was hiding. There was a hint as to what he was hiding, but i could never pinpoint exactly what it was. So many questions were answered and i simply couldn't get enough of these two. I have a feeling it'll be difficult to beat this couple as my favorite, but i have a feeling i'll be regretting or changing my mind with the next Montgomery couple!

*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books

 

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[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Keeping this short.

This book was alright but not what I CAR usually can bring to the table. It was all so rushed the plot line was unique and most certainly could have been fleshed out more IMO. I found it to all be a bit fluffy. The ending was the worst, I mean why did she do it? What made her want to take that action and leave her three children just like that.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Storm's story took me by surprise, I didn't know what to expect it seems like everyone in the family has a secret to hide and we finally discover what's up with Storm. Everly is a strong and passionate woman, one all mother everywhere can relate to especially when you have a disabled or frequently ill child. Carrie Ann always hit the emotional spot. Everly's story really hit strong with me I can so empathize with her and dealing with endless doctors appointments. I don't think I have ever had a character hit so close to home for me.

Everly was left alone to raise her twin boys after her husband, Jackson, died. Storm was her husband's best friend and her too, but after the death things became awkward between them, he was always there for her and the boys but they weren't close like they use to be. Storm has kept his secret for long he knows it won't be long before it has to come out. When someone connected to Storm's secret exposes something about Jackson and his life Storm knows it's time for the truth to come out and then he will deal with the fallout afterwards. Jackson's secret will hurt Everly but Storm has no choice but to tell her. It only gets worse when bad things start happening to Everly. With everything that has happened Storm finally figures out where he stands with Everly and Everly finally figures out what it's like to be adopted into the Montgomery family.

Overall, Everly was my favorite part of this story. I loved Storm and the whole story the plot and characters but Every is my favorite.

[Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I have been waiting for Storms's story! Lots of little teasers throughout the series about the kind of man he is. Could not be happier about how this one turns out.

This book hits all the high points for me: single parent, friends to lovers, a bit of intrigue, family meddling.....gah! One big smiley face right there. The other lovely part of this author's writing is she doesn't leave the reader hanging. We get to catch up on the previous couples as the story progresses. Not that you have to read the other books first, but I always enjoy knowing MORE and Ms. Ryan gives it!

I liked that Storm was always a constant in Everly's life, even as friends. She marries his best friend and Storm is just always around. Even as Everly's heart is breaking--again---Storm, ironically, is who calms her. It makes me happy when all the stars align and true love breaks through all the barriers. Love that Montgomery clan to pieces! So willing to embrace and share their love.

Perfect ending for Storm and Everly. Can't wait for the last Montgomery to fall.

*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.

[Karin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love everything Carrie Ann, and this was no exception. I adore the Montgomery bunch and always look forward to them. These stories always have such a good storyline and great family bonds behind them to.

Storm and Everly have known each other since college, and have been nothing but friends. When Jonathan dies, Everly husband and Storms best friend he steps up to help Everly and her newborns in typical Montgomery fashion, they always protect there loved ones fiercely. After what seems like forever the tides sort of change for these two and they start to see each other differently which takes them by surprise and leaves them on edge around each other.

I have loved Storms mysterious persona and now we know why he's always seemed miserable in a way, he's holding one heck of secret. And Everly was a phenomenal heroine, she truly showed the meaning of strength and devotion!!

I voluntarily reviewed a advanced readers copy of this book

[Romanticamente Fantasy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nayeli - per RFS
.
Nonostante abbia seguito tutta la serie delle famiglie Montgomery e Gallagher, purtroppo sono rimasta un po’ delusa da questo episodio, anche dal punto di vista stilistico; ho avuto come la sensazione che fosse scritto da un ghostwriter.

Molto tempo viene perso per le presentazioni dei protagonisti, per riassumere le puntate precedenti o presentare la famiglia. Ci sono parecchie divagazioni su scene inutili, mentre poco spazio viene dedicato ad approfondire la psicologia dei protagonisti, entrambi con un passato notevole e pesante.

Giorno dopo giorno, il suo passato stava svanendo pezzo dopo pezzo, stava svanendo il sogno che pensava di aver vissuto con l’uomo che amava; Everly aveva paura che, se non si fosse fermata, se non avesse smesso di essere sempre forte, avrebbe perso anche di più. Aveva perso se stessa perdendo il marito, non se n’era nemmeno accorta. Non poteva perdersi di nuovo. Nemmeno per Storm.

(Tratto dal libro)

Everly è vedova da dieci anni e ha due gemelli, Storm è il miglior amico del marito di lei, deceduto dieci anni prima, e la ama segretamente da sempre.

Rimangono agganciati a un passato irrisolto che non riescono a superare: lui mantiene un segreto che rischia di rovinare il rapporto con il gemello Wes, lei vive ancora nella memoria dell’uomo che ha perso, totalmente legata ai doveri di madre, negando i propri sentimenti e il bisogno di provare una nuova relazione.

“Baciami,” gli sussurrò, “ho bisogno di un tuo bacio.” Bisogno. Una semplice parola per qualcosa di tanto grande. Lei non si concedeva dei bisogni, non più. Venivano sempre prima gli altri… anche se non se ne pentiva. Ma in quel frangente, nella lavanderia di casa, con il mondo che le crollava addosso, un peso che le toglieva il respiro, non voleva pensare ad altro. Solo a se stessa. Solo a Storm. Solo a loro due. Lui spostò la mano per stringerla dietro la nuca, tirandole minimamente i capelli nel frattempo. Lei aprì la bocca, lui abbassò la testa. “Non dovrei farlo.” Lei inarcò la schiena: “Fallo lo stesso.”

(Tratto dal libro)

Storm fatica a fare un passo per avvicinarsi a Everly perché sente ancora il senso di lealtà nei confronti di quello che era il suo miglior amico, ma proprio grazie a questo ruolo di “zio” putativo ha potuto stare accanto a Ev e ai due bambini durante tutta la loro crescita, affezionandosi moltissimo ed essendo sempre presente quando c’era bisogno.

Il rapporto si è fatto con gli anni sempre più stretto, ma anche un po’ ingombrante e imbarazzante, dal momento che né lui né Everly erano pronti ad approfondire il loro livello di intimità.

Tutto questo finché c’è un bacio. Non assistiamo a una esplosione passionale ma a un romance a cottura lenta: da persone mature, i nostri protagonisti prendono atto della loro attrazione, ne parlano e decidono di iniziare una relazione andandoci piano, razionalmente, con tutta la fatica e le interruzioni dovute agli imprevisti di avere figli piccoli e a una famiglia ingombrante come quella dei Montgomery.

A queste difficoltà di costruirsi una relazione essendo una madre single che lavora, si aggiunge un mistero legato al marito scomparso che porta alla luce un mistero destabilizzante.

“Ma già mi stai aiutando molto,” gli disse subito, “anche il fatto stesso che sei qui con me mi aiuta.” “Anche se la mia presenza ti fa un po’ uscire di testa?” Lei sussultò: “Non so bene come comportarmi, con te vicino. Siamo amici. Eravamo amici. Poi ci siamo allontanati un po’, dopo la morte di Jackson. Adesso siamo più che amici. Molto più che amici. Tu sei fantastico, ma sai anche molto di me e sei legato a tutto ciò che mi succede, anche se la tua lista di problemi non è certo più corta della mia. Messo tutto insieme, se ci penso, diventa troppo.”

(Tratto dal libro)

Come accennavo, le caratterizzazioni dei personaggi sono molto sottili. Storm è il tipico bravo ragazzo praticamente perfetto che fa la cosa giusta: generoso, tenero, si carica sulle spalle i problemi altrui. A causa dei suoi segreti si allontana sempre più dal gemello, ma questi non vanno a definire propriamente un difetto capace di renderlo più umano. Se fa passi falsi con Everly, inoltre, è solo per un eccesso di istinto protettivo.

Everly è una donna molto forte indurita dalla necessità di allevare da sola due figli con problemi di salute; per un decennio ha resistito all’arroganza dei suoceri perché comprendeva il loro dolore, ma ciò non nega la sua forza e determinazione nel gestire gli imprevisti, nell’affrontare le disgrazie da sola (le malattie dei figli, la solitudine, il dolore per i problemi finanziari). È pur che con Storm al fianco ha finalmente l’opportunità di appoggiarsi per poter prendere un po’ di respiro.

“Non puoi pensare di prendere sempre tutto su di te, Storm. Non puoi pensare di entrare nella mia vita e sistemare tutto. Non puoi. Non sei mio marito e a quanto pare nemmeno mio marito era davvero mio marito.” La voce di Everly fu rotta da un singhiozzo mentre concludeva, ma lei si odiò per quella debolezza. Stava gestendo tutto nel modo sbagliato; ma a un certo punto era diventato troppo, da gestire. “Everly,” le sussurrò Storm, “non sto cercando di prendere tutto su di me.” “Invece sì. È quello che hai fatto. È solo… non devi cercare di metterti nei suoi panni, Storm.” Everly chiuse gli occhi, trattenendo le lacrime. “Adesso vai. Devi andartene, stasera voglio rimanere da sola coi miei bambini.” “Ev…” “Vattene.”

(Tratto dal libro)

Tuttavia, le caratterizzazioni si fermano qui. Tanti piccoli spunti interessanti nelle psicologie che però non vengono sviluppati, ad esempio la fatica che potrebbe avere Everly nel fidarsi di nuovo degli uomini o il modo in cui supera la sua incapacità di raggiungere un orgasmo da penetrazione. Belle scintille che non sono pienamente sfruttate e vengono lasciate spegnere come se niente fosse. Questo naturalmente fa sì che il romanzo si mantenga scorrevole e leggero, senza troppa intensità o complicatezza, e potrebbe essere una scelta voluta… ma non è il tipo di scelta che preferisco.

“Devi baciare ancora lo zio Storm,” disse James con un sorriso assonnato, prima di baciare la mamma sulla guancia. “Così lo zio Storm può essere il nostro papà e noi siamo una famiglia. Così abbiamo anche il cagnolino e nessuno ci fa del male, perché lo zio Storm ci protegge da tutti.”

(Tratto dal libro)

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contemporary Romance Series 2024. Kobo+. MC’s H Storm Montgomery and h Everly Law. Storm is the fraternal twin brother to Wes and they took over Montgomery Construction from their parents Harry and Marie. The twins are almost 40 now and the last of the 8 children to find a mate for life.
Everly is the mother of twin boys just three years old. Her husband Jackson died in a plane crash and she delivered twin sons immediately after he passed. Storm was best friends with Jackson having met in Uni. Everly was dating Jackson and Storm hung out with them. After Jackson died Storm stepped in to help Everly with home maintenance and childcare. Everly was alone except for Jackson’s parents who helped babysit when she needed help. She was also good friends with Tabby who worked at Montgomery Construction and enjoyed to Alex Montgomery the youngest brother. Her store was torched by Rachel ( discovered later) the other woman in Jackson’s life who had three children with him. Rachel also came to Everly and told her about Jackson and their three children. She wanted money. Everly told her to leave. She received anonymous phone calls and the caller would hang up. Rachel hit Storm. Everly and the twins in a head on collision and died at the scene. Storm was hurt but recovered with physical therapy. Storm had been in an auto accident 20 years before. A man fell asleep and hit Storm head on. The man died leaving his 4 year old son without a dad. Storm sustained back injuries that had plagued him ever since. Only Harry Austin and Jackson knew about his accident. Since that accident Storm visited Clay the boy that was left an orphan. He introduced Jackson to Rachel 10 years before never knowing he had another woman and a second family. Storm and Everly got together as a couple after the fire and Rachel’s affair with Jackson was revealed. Everly and Storm dated, slept together and realized they loved each other. She moved in with Storm with the boys and their dog. A HEA.

Montgomery Couples

Mom Marie & Dad Harry
1Austin &Sierra (Lief ,Austin’s son from a former partner)and Colby
2Wes & Jillian
3Storm & Everly ( twin boys from Jackson Law Storm’s best friend: James & Nathan
4Meghan & Luc ( 2 children from first marriage Cliff & Sasha) and baby Micah
5Griffin & Autumn
6Maya , Jake & Border ( throuple) & son Noah
7Alex & Tabby
8Miranda & Decker & baby

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to start out by saying that I found Storm extremely YUMMY! There was just something about him that made him extremely attractive to me and I don't mean in a physical way. I think it had a lot to do with the way he cared for Everly and her twin sons, James and Nathan, even though Everly tried to push him away after her husband's, Jackson, death.
Storm and Everly's story had a lot of twists and turns but it was worth every minute of the ride.
You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...

[Rochelle Hulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Storm & Everly have been friends for years but they've finally realized maybe they have a future together.

[Gal reads books · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sweet story - but the repetitiveness of Jillian in the book was just annoying. The constant thoughts of ‘they didn’t love each other like that’, she ‘pushed him away’ so he could be with Everly... There was just too much focus on the ‘ex fuck buddy / good friend’.

And then having Jillian fall in love with Storm’s twin brother in the next book? Seriously - authors need to move away from this trope.

[Krista · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twins Storm and Wes Montgomery are the last two Montgomery siblings who haven't yet found love. To be fair, Storm has had a lot going on in his life for the last 20 years to really give love too much of a focus. He's had flings and most recently, Jillian has been his best friend with benefits. But, it's not the same as what his brothers and sisters have.

Storm is a really conflicted man. He's been keeping this big secret from 20 years before that has affected every single thing he's done since then. I honestly don't know how Storm kept a secret that big from such a large, nosey family. Especially since it messed him up both physically and mentally. But, he did, and how it's starting to come to a head. Wes is sick of not knowing what's going on with the man he's the closest to in the entire world. And Storm's physical limitations are getting harder to hide.

I get why Storm wanted to keep what happened from his family, but honestly the fact that he did was also very frustrating. This family has proved to be rock solid over and over again. It makes me crazy that he thinks that they would somehow judge him or shun him.

And then there's Everly. She lost her husband the night she gave birth to her twin boys. They're now three years old and have some pretty big health problems. It seems like Everly's life is all of a sudden falling apart. Her boys are ill, her livelihood goes up in smoke, she finds out a devastating secret about her husband's past, and someone is trying to kill her. In addition, her attraction to Storm, who was her dead husband's best friend, can't be contained anymore. This poor girl cannot catch a break.

Things are very hot and cold between Everly and Storm for awhile. There's always this simmering sexual tension between them, but it isn't acted on until later in the book. It's definitely a slow burn - slower than in the other Montgomery Ink books. But, don't worry - there's plenty of other stuff going on while Storm and Everly figure their stuff out.

In addition to Storm finding love, we get to catch up with all the Montgomery Ink couples that have formed so far (thank goodness for those big monthly family BBQs). We also get the set up for Wes' story, which looks like it's shaping up to be a great enemies to lovers story.

Until then, we get to finally enjoy seeing Storm join the ranks of his brothers and sisters who found wedded bliss with their other halves. Inked Expressions was a really good addition to the Montgomery Ink series.

[books are love · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everly went through a lot and shows just how strong she is in this book. We also see how compassionate she is as well. At first I was frustrated with her due to her way with Storm. It seemed that she was the one pushing him away. Storm though was there no matter what. when the twins were ill and asked for him he was there. When she needed help he was there. He was reliable, honest loyal and sweet. He was also in love with Everly. At first he denied it due to his promise but he did accept it work slowly in getting Everly to see it as well.

Storm is a standup guy. He has some things in his past weighing on him and keeping him from taking chances at first but slowly he realizes this needs to change. When he opens up to Everly about his past she is compassionate and kind. Supportive and loving as well. She helps him feel less burdened and love. It hurt that him and his twin were at odds but we do see this distance close up and start to mend when Storm lets him in again.

When a secret about the twins dad is found out it places some more guilt on Storm because he is one that takes things to heart. When he lets Everly know she at first doesn’t react well but when it is staring at her in the face she deflates but has Storm to hold onto and help her. Her twins are precious and their love for Storm is wonderful. Storm’s love and relationship with them is precious and heartfelt.

when Everly’s life blows up further, Storm is there and risks alot for her. When she is in danger, Storm is by her side and protecting her and her children with a fierceness of a father lion. His love for Everly is seen in every action he takes. I hated what his best friend did to him and Everly but we also see it bring them get closer.

The ending was heartbreaking and heartwarming. I love how Everly is there by Storm’s side just like he was hers no matter what. I also love how they got through everything together and forged their own path and became more through friendship, respect and support of one another.

A heartwarming and wonderful story of two people finding their way to one another. One trying to free themselves of guilt and let love in the other letting go of stubbornness. Both helping each other heal and find peace within. A story of friends who are always there for each other and has their friendship become more as they go through so much. A wonderfully written story where we get both Storm’s and Everly’s view as we watch them realize they are in love and act on it. We see them become more and become a family.

[Renee Entress · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, secrets, betrayal, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Ink Inspired (Montgomery Ink, #0.5)
Ink Reunited (Montgomery Ink, #0.6)
Delicate Ink (Montgomery Ink, #1)
Forever Ink (Montgomery Ink, #1.5)
Tempting Boundaries (Montgomery Ink, #2)
Harder than Words (Montgomery Ink, #3)
Written in Ink (Montgomery Ink, #4)
Hidden Ink (Montgomery Ink, #4.5)
Ink Enduring (Montgomery Ink, #5)
Ink Exposed (Montgomery Ink #6)
Adoring Ink (Montgomery Ink #6.5)
Love, Honor, and Ink (Montgomery Ink #6.6)

This is Everly and Storm’s story. Storm and Everly’s husband were best friends. But when secrets are revealed to him he wonders if he ever knew his best friend. Storm’s past and present collide and bring nothing but pain to Everly. Everly lost the love of her life but her twin boys keep her going. When secrets about her husband are revealed she wonders about everything in her life. Storm is there to help her but should she lean on him? He is great with her boys but she has to watch who gets close to them as they already lost their father. Can Storm get Everly to give him a chance? What happens when danger comes for Everly? Can he protect her? Or will she lose him to the danger before they can ever have a chance to try having a future? Who is behind all the danger?

I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I recommend this book.

[Kristi Metcalf · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book

Another brooding Montgomery? Yes please!!!!!
Storm Montgomery is one of the Montgomery twins and co-owner of the Montgomery Inc construction company that his father started. The man has a big secret and has been carrying around so long that I think its starting to get to him.
Everly Law is the widow of Storm's best friend. The three of them were all friends in college and remained close afterwards. When Jonathan died Ev was pregnant with twins and went into labor when she was told about his death. For the past three years, she has been a single mom and business owner. She doesn't like to need help from anyone, but especially Storm who is boys godfather.
Something hasn't been quite right between the two for a while and neither knows why.
First off Ev is a strong as h*** woman, any single mom is. You can see in the way that Ryan writes, that her boys are her life.
Storm loves those little boys like they are his own and will do anything for them and Ev. The two do not see the attraction that they have for each other, it's almost funny.
Second, secrets can't stay hidden forever whether you spill it yourself or someone from the past does it, they are going to come out.
Storm secret isn't as bad as he thinks it is, but it does lead him in finding a secret that isn't is own, one that could kill Everly.
I love watching two people come together and these two are no exception. It takes them a while to figure out that they are better together, stronger together, but they do. The Montgomery family is known for being bigger than life and pulling people into it and that is what they did to Everly and her boys before her and Storm got together. I will be sad when these series comes to a end, I'm really going to miss this family that you can help but fall in love with. However, I'm super happy that we will be getting a spin off with another branch of the Montgomery family and Ryan did a great job of introducing some of the new players with a family cookout.
Storm and Everly, finding love after years of friendship is a beautiful thing. Storm finally letting go of his secret and finding some closure is too. The final Montgomery, well Denver Montgomery, is going to be a doozy and I can't wait for Storm's twin to get his!!!!

[JG · Rating 4 out of 5]

The seventh book in the Montgomery Ink series, Inked Expressions, follows the developing relationship between Storm Montgomery and Everly Law. Inked Expressions is a great storyline exploring the friends to lovers trope. They have known each other for a long time. Although their friendship has become strained in the last few months, it's mostly because the friendship was already evolving into something more. These two have closeness, heat, an enduring friendship that sweetly develops into a real relationship. There is some plot devices that in my opinion should have probably been left out since it probably did not add anything more into the story it was still a wonderful read.
This book, although part of a long (ongoing) series, really brings out Ms. Ryan's talent in sustaining the interest in this fantastic family and their dynamics with each other and the people around them. Inked Expression just kind of brings everything into almost full circle and makes us eagerly anticipate the last book in the series (or there could be more!)

Although Inked Expressions can be read as a standalone, to better understand what the family is all about and to jump start Storm and Everly's story, it's recommended the series be read from the start.

*ARC provided*

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inked Expressions, the final of the Denver side of the Montgomery Family, is my new favorite of the series. It was filled with angst, hope, love, and an adorable set of twin boys.

Then there's Storm and Everly. I'd been curious about him, and so excited to get further into his head. His name is so fitting, Storm is intense. Everly is dealing with a lot, especially as a widowed mother. They have an explosive friends to lovers story.

The story is enthralling and the writing is lovely. It's paced well, just slow enough to keep you tuned in and eagerly awaiting what will happen next. I would recommend to the reader looking for a sexy friends to lovers romance.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Inked up and sweet Montgomery brother stars!

In Everly Law's worst nightmares, she never imagined losing her husband in a horrific plane crash, leaving her pregnant and alone to raise their twin boys. Her husband's BFF Storm Montgomery has been a godsend in the three years since Jackson's death, helping her with whatever her little family needs, but lately, things between them have been strained. Neither have really ever thought of the other "that way," but soon they can't think of each other without wanting to rip each other's clothes off. But as a specter of their past rears its ugly head, Everly and Storm will have to work hard to have any chance of making their romance into something lasting.

The Montgomery Ink series is one I haven't read a lot of, but what I have read I do love! INKED EXPRESSIONS is no exception. The tension between Everly and Storm was strained in the beginning, despite their easy relationship when Jackson was alive. Once they both realized that their friendship had the potential to be the elusive "more," the two became explosive. It was such as natural progression from friends to lovers, and Everly's sons had a seamless transition since Storm's the only father figure they've ever truly had. Everly could be a bit abrasive at times, which is understandable given the hell she's been put through. And I really didn't understand the need for Storm to hide his "secret" for 20 years…it seemed like a super stupid move…but hey, men, amirite? Even with those few negatives, the book was still an excellent read and I can't wait to pick up more in this series!

Bottom Line: No OM/OW or sharing; condom use; no BDSM/kink; no sexual assault; mild violence, mild attempted murder.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I found this one predictable from the first page I didn't mind it. I liked seeing Storm and Everly work their way towards being a couple, to go from friends to lovers, to make peace with their past connections and seeing Everly become aclimated with the Montgomery clan. Even the "surprise" drama wasn't all that surprising, in fact I called it when I heard about all the trips. I was glad that Storm was there for Everly and her boys, that the boys gave their permission for the relationship and that the 4 or 5 (if you count the dog) became a family. Storm's secret was a bit anti-climatic, not sure why he never told the rest of the family.

[Alphas Do It Better Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Storm Montgomery has been part of Everly Law's life for years.  He was there when Everly found out that her husband Jackson died and when she went into labor with her twins the same day.  Storm has become a huge part of Everly's life and she thinks that maybe she and her twins rely on him too much.  She distances herself so that Storm can go on about his own life.  When the boys really need him, Everly asks Storm to help and they are drawn back together.   As they start their new relationship, they find out something about Jackson that neither one expected and it turns their lives upside down. 
I love the Montgomery family and Storm and Everly are no exception.   I was pulled in by their story and enjoyed every minute.  Storm is the epitome of the strong, handsome guy next door.  Everly is a strong single mom who will do anything for her kids.  They are both very relatable characters that are a great couple.  The only issue I had was that the ending, while satisfying, was a bit abrupt.  I can't wait for Wes and Jillian’s book!

Review by Michelle C

[Jewlsbookblog · Rating 3 out of 5]

Storm and Everly’s romance was a sweet read. Everly’s boys were cute and I enjoyed the variety of Montgomery’s on hand to help out where needed. The weak link to the story was the drama with Rachel. Storm and Everly didn’t need to justify why they were together when Everly had been widowed for so long and they’re getting together made Rachel’s part feel...superfluous.

[Angel Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely one of the best from Carrie Ann Ryan. The back stories alone are gripping and compelling, leading up to a plot that had me turning pages as fast as I could. Truly a well-done book, and one of the best from this superstar author and this tremendous series.

[Teresa Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

love this series Storm and Ev book was awesome ♡I Feel there's a lot more story to be told.Gimme more

[Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms · Rating 4 out of 5]

Storm and Everly had some big hurdles to tackle before they could try to get to their HEA, and I enjoyed the ride with them!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this book was everything. So much pain and hurt. And those explosive secrets, holy cow! Storm and Everly were so perfect for each other. He stayed true and was by her side through it all.

[Alaïne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dans ce tome, Storm, un des jumeaux, est sur le devant de la scène. Il devra faire face aux sentiments qu’il a pour la femme de son meilleur ami et accepter de dévoiler ses secrets. Everly est veuve et maman de jumeaux. À part sa librairie, elle pense que sa vie se résume à cela. Mais quand des secrets la menaceront, il sera temps d’accepter son attirance pour son ami.

J’avais hâte de découvrir cette histoire depuis que la tension entre les deux a été mise en avant. Clairement avec Wes, ce sont les titres qu’on est obligé d’attendre. Et même si j’aime tout l’univers, je préfère quand cela se concentre sur la famille Montgomery !

Storm est un homme secret. Il est disponible et loyal. Il lui faudra du temps pour accepter ses sentiments et quand on connaît le lien des deux, c’est normal que ce soit long. Mais je l’ai beaucoup aimé !

Everly est la maman par excellence ! Son besoin d’indépendance est clairement profond et peut être énervant. Par contre, elle m’a conquise sur son histoire ! Clairement, on se met à sa place et on souffre pour elle.

Je suis contente car cela a pris son temps ! C’est assez long avant qu’ils ne tentent quelque chose, c’est crédible vu leur amitié et cela les rend encore plus mignons. Un duo fort comme chaque membre de la famille. Mais ce que j’ai préféré c’est la famille qu’il forme avec les garçons et Randy.

L’intrigue est triple, la romance, bien sûr, qui prend beaucoup de place. Le sujet de Storm qui met en péril sa relation fraternelle. Puis le passé de Everly qui revient avec révélations et menaces. J’avoue que concernant la résolution, j’aurais voulu avoir plus d’infos sur les raisons du commanditaire ! Et on se doute rapidement, mais ça reste très addictif et on est tenu en haleine.

En résumé, un tome que j’ai beaucoup aimé encore une fois. J’ai hâte de découvrir l’histoire de Wes et Jillian ! Ça sent le ennemi to Lovers puis le passé avec Storm jouera forcément ! Je file voir si avant des bonus arrivent ! Et sans surprise, je vous recommande fortement ce titre.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Storm Montgomery is 1 of 8 siblings, he is also Wes' twin brother. Storm's best friend from college Jonathan married Everly, and Storm is with her the night that she receives the news that her husband is dead, this also lead to her going into labour - with Storm by her side. Everly - now a widow and a single mom of twins - does it all on her own refusing to ask Storm for help, even when he is constantly showing up. As they are both trying to fight their feelings for each other because "shes Jonathan's wife"/ because "he's Jonathan's friend" they find out that Jonathan wasn't the stand up guy everyone thought him to be. In the mix Storm has to reveal a secret to his family that he has kept for over 15 years, and someone is after Everly.

So let me start off by saying that I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review, but I also bought the book after its release because I just love this series. With each new release I re-read the series from the beginning so that everything is fresh in my mind when I get to the new book. And Inked Expression did not fail to meet the standard that each previous book has set. Storm & Wes have always seemed a bit mysterious and quiet in all the other books so it was great to finally see what he was all about. Everly is his perfect match. I also love the continuity with this series, just because Austin's book was first doesn't mean that he ins't constantly in the mix for each of the following books, and I love that. So many other series hardly mention other characters from previous books, but with Carrie Ann Ryan its more like focusing on one couple's story at a time while still weaving everyone else into the picture.

[Naomi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really like this series and was really excited about Storms book. However I just couldn't get into this story. I don't like stories where a dead character leads a double life, like cheating and having a second family. Because the character is dead I feel like we don't get justice for their bad actions. I guess I just like it when we get revenge against cheaters. That's just my personal bias, I still love the series and I'm excited for Wed and Jillian.