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Montgomery Ink #8.7
Second Chance Ink
From NYT bestselling author Carrie Ann Ryan comes a new romance in her Montgomery Ink series…
Tattoo artist Brandon never thought he’d see her again. He’d trained himself never to think of her or what they’d had together. It was the only way he’d been able to survive but now she’s standing right in front of him and he can hardly breathe.
Lauren hadn’t known he’d be part of her plans until it was too late. She’d thought he was gone from her life and memories forever. Now he’s in her orbit once more and she’ll have to fight to remember the girl she once was and the woman she’s become.
Author Note: Second Chance Ink is a Montgomery Ink short story and a little different than what you’re used to from me. It’s shorter than my other novellas at only ~15,000 words. It has a complete HEA, and is perfect for a steamy evening, one-sitting read.
Tattoo artist Brandon never thought he’d see her again. He’d trained himself never to think of her or what they’d had together. It was the only way he’d been able to survive but now she’s standing right in front of him and he can hardly breathe.
Lauren hadn’t known he’d be part of her plans until it was too late. She’d thought he was gone from her life and memories forever. Now he’s in her orbit once more and she’ll have to fight to remember the girl she once was and the woman she’s become.
Author Note: Second Chance Ink is a Montgomery Ink short story and a little different than what you’re used to from me. It’s shorter than my other novellas at only ~15,000 words. It has a complete HEA, and is perfect for a steamy evening, one-sitting read.
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First published March 30, 2018
135 people are currently reading
768 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
265 books6,321 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 66 reviews
March 8, 2018
Phew another book that once you start there is no way in heck you can put it down. Carrie has done again.
March 8, 2018
Another hit out of the park for Carrie Ann Ryan! Great characters and always HOT!
December 3, 2025
Second Chance Ink - So Good!
Second Chance Ink, book 8.7 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author! I am reading the Montgomery world in chronological order from Carrie Ann’s website.
This was such a good story about Brandon (artist at the tattoo shop) & Lauren! This is a novellete. Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, Second Chance, No 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
Second Chance Ink, book 8.7 of the Montgomery Ink series by Carrie Ann Ryan @carrieannryanauthor. Carrie Ann is a fantastic author! I am reading the Montgomery world in chronological order from Carrie Ann’s website.
This was such a good story about Brandon (artist at the tattoo shop) & Lauren! This is a novellete. Tropes: Contemporary, Male/Female, Second Chance, No 3rd Act Break Up & HEA!
April 11, 2022
This is a very short and sweet novella. I’ve not really heard much from these characters throughout the books so it was nice to hear from someone different. It is a very short book but with a lot of emotion and a tricky subject to take on. A fantastic performance from Gregory as per usual.
April 2, 2018
This one is short and sweet, but Brandon and Lauren manage to cover a lot of ground, forgive a lot of hurts and forge to their future.
April 23, 2019
This second chance romance was short and sweet. A very quick read and makes a nice addition to the Montgomery Ink series.
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March 8, 2018Loved this story! Carrie Anne never fails to deliver an awesome read. Once again we're in the world of the Montgomerys and personally I never want to leave!
March 9, 2018
Another book I cant wait to read
March 30, 2018
Full review to be updated once all chapters are out.
So far... love this and the glimpse into the lives of the others at Montgomery Ink tattoo shop too.
So far... love this and the glimpse into the lives of the others at Montgomery Ink tattoo shop too.
March 29, 2018
Twice As Lucky!!!
Brandon, a tattoo artist who worked at Montgomery Ink. We met him several times since the series started. He'd loved one woman deeply that when things ended between them. He made it his mission to forget all about her and he faked it well for years. Until he found himself face-to-face with her again.
Lauren loved Brandon with everything she had but they had to go their separate ways. Now he was back in her orbit and she really didn't know how she felt about that. Nah she knew exactly how she felt, she was excited and scared all at once.
He was the only man she ever truly loved. She tried to forget him but she never could. What was she to do now that he was close again!?
Brandon wanted answers regarding why Lauren left him behind all those years ago. She gave them to him even though it nearly ripped her apart. And when all was said and done, she made a choice that changed their lives once again.
What she didn't expect was that Brandin wasn't about to lose her again, no matter what. He put all his cards on the table for her to see his hands. What she saw pleased her and together they decided to give their love a second chance.
SECOND CHANCE INK is a short story in the MONTGOMERY INK series by Carrie Ann Ryan. It was sizzling, beautiful and oh so sexy. 5 fan-freakin-stastic stars!
P. S. Brandon's client Kim kind of reminded me of myself minus the children part ;).
Brandon, a tattoo artist who worked at Montgomery Ink. We met him several times since the series started. He'd loved one woman deeply that when things ended between them. He made it his mission to forget all about her and he faked it well for years. Until he found himself face-to-face with her again.
Lauren loved Brandon with everything she had but they had to go their separate ways. Now he was back in her orbit and she really didn't know how she felt about that. Nah she knew exactly how she felt, she was excited and scared all at once.
He was the only man she ever truly loved. She tried to forget him but she never could. What was she to do now that he was close again!?
Brandon wanted answers regarding why Lauren left him behind all those years ago. She gave them to him even though it nearly ripped her apart. And when all was said and done, she made a choice that changed their lives once again.
What she didn't expect was that Brandin wasn't about to lose her again, no matter what. He put all his cards on the table for her to see his hands. What she saw pleased her and together they decided to give their love a second chance.
SECOND CHANCE INK is a short story in the MONTGOMERY INK series by Carrie Ann Ryan. It was sizzling, beautiful and oh so sexy. 5 fan-freakin-stastic stars!
P. S. Brandon's client Kim kind of reminded me of myself minus the children part ;).
November 28, 2025
This was such a super sweet, super quick novella, and I loved every moment of it. Even though Brandon and Lauren aren’t Montgomerys themselves, getting to briefly step back into the Montgomery Ink family world added that familiar warmth I always love in this series.
As a second chance romance, this story delivers exactly what I want from an exes-to-lovers dynamic: that rush of old emotions resurfacing, the weight of shared history, and the spark that never really faded. Brandon’s shock at seeing Lauren again and Lauren’s struggle with who she once was versus who she is now felt genuine and tender, especially within the tighter novella length. I found myself making plenty of reader noises, smiling through their reconnection, and laughing at a few perfectly timed moments.
I also had a prediction early on that ended up being completely off base—in the best way possible. And the ending? It made me so, so happy.
Short, steamy, heartfelt, and perfect for a one-sitting read, Second Chance Ink is a lovely addition to the Montgomery Ink universe and a sweet reminder of how satisfying a well-done second chance can be.
As a second chance romance, this story delivers exactly what I want from an exes-to-lovers dynamic: that rush of old emotions resurfacing, the weight of shared history, and the spark that never really faded. Brandon’s shock at seeing Lauren again and Lauren’s struggle with who she once was versus who she is now felt genuine and tender, especially within the tighter novella length. I found myself making plenty of reader noises, smiling through their reconnection, and laughing at a few perfectly timed moments.
I also had a prediction early on that ended up being completely off base—in the best way possible. And the ending? It made me so, so happy.
Short, steamy, heartfelt, and perfect for a one-sitting read, Second Chance Ink is a lovely addition to the Montgomery Ink universe and a sweet reminder of how satisfying a well-done second chance can be.
March 30, 2018
This is a short, sweet read, all about second chances! It fits right in with the Montgomery Ink characters, with a strong male lead, and a tragic leading lady.
Brandon is a tattoo artist that works at our favorite tattoo shop (Montgomery Ink, of course!). He has a past that he doesn't talk about, but thinks about way too much. What happens when, out of the blue, your past shows up? How would you react? What would you do? This novella shows us that sometimes, you have to grab that second chance with both hands and hold on!
Brandon and his lady were a fabulous addition to the Montgomery Ink World. Their story was beautiful, and at the same time tragic. Tears threatened right from the beginning, and didn't let up, even after I was finished with the story!
Brandon is a tattoo artist that works at our favorite tattoo shop (Montgomery Ink, of course!). He has a past that he doesn't talk about, but thinks about way too much. What happens when, out of the blue, your past shows up? How would you react? What would you do? This novella shows us that sometimes, you have to grab that second chance with both hands and hold on!
Brandon and his lady were a fabulous addition to the Montgomery Ink World. Their story was beautiful, and at the same time tragic. Tears threatened right from the beginning, and didn't let up, even after I was finished with the story!
March 29, 2018
Second Chance Ink is a quick read packed full with all the feelings you would expect from a Carrie Ann Ryan story. Brandon and Lauren had been friends and lovers until one day six years ago she simply disappeared from his life and broke his heart making him unable to commit to anyone else. Lauren had her reasons but hadn’t shared. This book starts when Lauren walks into Montgomery Ink not knowing that Brandon is working there. He wants an explanation and he still wants her.
This book made me laugh, cry and sigh.
This book made me laugh, cry and sigh.
April 2, 2018
I usually like Carrie Ann Ryan's books but this one was just crap. Here's the plot: Lauren runs into Brandon by chance after dumping him with no explanation several years before. Brandon spends about 20 pages going on and on about what a strong amazing woman she is and then suddenly they are married. Seriously, I thought there was a glitch in my e-reader. I started reading the epilogue and they were suddenly married. I thought I had skipped several pages or a chapter. I had to go back and reread the end of chapter 4 to realize that that was supposed to be a resolution to their problems.
March 6, 2020
This is fast and furious! Brandon is a tattoo artist who has only been in love with one woman. He doesn't talk about his past, but when she comes walking in the door of the shop, his past is about to collide with his present. Lauren is here but going to stay? There is a lot of tension, and the air needs to be cleared. Why did she leave and why is she back? Can they find their way back to each other? It may be short, but it's romantic! I loved this novella narrated by the talented Gregory Salinas. His voice definitely brings a charge to the story and let's us fall for this second chance.
May 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I LOVE THIS AUTHOR!!
Second Chance Ink tells the poignant story of Brandon, a tattoo artist, and Lauren, a woman he never thought he’d see again. Their past is filled with regret and unresolved feelings, but when fate brings them back together, they must confront their history and figure out if there's a future for them. The second-chance romance is filled with emotional depth, with both characters rediscovering themselves and each other. It’s a heartfelt journey of healing, forgiveness, and the possibility of love after loss.
Second Chance Ink tells the poignant story of Brandon, a tattoo artist, and Lauren, a woman he never thought he’d see again. Their past is filled with regret and unresolved feelings, but when fate brings them back together, they must confront their history and figure out if there's a future for them. The second-chance romance is filled with emotional depth, with both characters rediscovering themselves and each other. It’s a heartfelt journey of healing, forgiveness, and the possibility of love after loss.
December 28, 2019
Second Chance Ink was a novella that actual read well for being so short. Normally I find the shorter books to be a bit lacking because it can be hard to sell the instant romance angle. This book worked because the two main characters, Brandon and Lauren, already had such an intense past relationship. It was a sweet and emotional little romance novel that would be easy to pick up and read in a single sitting.
September 29, 2024
This was a quick paced novella that was sweet and cute. Fit right into the Inked world by Carrie Ann Ryan. I listened to the audio and it was enjoyable.
I recommend this read for others. It’s probably best to read the series before this one but I didn’t read the series yet and it still was enjoyable and able to be understood. I enjoy this author and look forward to continue to read their books.
I recommend this read for others. It’s probably best to read the series before this one but I didn’t read the series yet and it still was enjoyable and able to be understood. I enjoy this author and look forward to continue to read their books.
April 8, 2018
Maybe I’m just reading too much. Or maybe being sick in real life makes my view on books a little Jaded. As much as I LOVE Carrie Ann Ryan and as much as I LOVE Montgomery Ink, Second Chance Ink felt a tiny forced for me. Too “Happily Ever After” and “the Morale of the Story”. I still enjoyed Second Chance Ink, it was a great short read. Just...not my favorite.
July 20, 2018
Happy! Happy!
Wonderful little story of love lost and chance encounters.
Brandon and Lauren have a chance encounter that allows Brandon the opportunity for some answers. Through it all, they both end up talking and surprisingly (in the romance book world) taking it slow to rekindle their love.
Wonderful little story of love lost and chance encounters.
Brandon and Lauren have a chance encounter that allows Brandon the opportunity for some answers. Through it all, they both end up talking and surprisingly (in the romance book world) taking it slow to rekindle their love.
November 13, 2018
I read this in Carrie Ann's emails, I loved it!! I love seeing these secondary characters get their own little story. Brandon and Lauren have such a strong past, I loved seeing them get back together and instantly still have the bond that that they did. Can't wait to see if we get a little more of these two <3
January 21, 2019
Short, but I can relate to Lauren in this book. When someone loves someone that love doesn't die and running away thinking it's the only option because you're scared doesn't help. Without saying what happens because you need to read this or most women should read this. I felt Lauren's pain but I'm happy that they found each other again.
October 12, 2020
Scared
This a great quick read. Lauren ran from Brandon six years ago. Brandon now works at Montgomery Ink. Lauren walks into Montgomery Ink to inquire about getting a tattoo. Brandon hears her voice and can’t believe it’s her. Can she tell him why she ran? Can they get past it and have a relationship? Come on in and find out.
This a great quick read. Lauren ran from Brandon six years ago. Brandon now works at Montgomery Ink. Lauren walks into Montgomery Ink to inquire about getting a tattoo. Brandon hears her voice and can’t believe it’s her. Can she tell him why she ran? Can they get past it and have a relationship? Come on in and find out.
August 30, 2021
A cute quick story for Brandon and Lauren. It felt like it was just written to fill a gap, as I don't really remember Brandon in previous books as he was such a minor character. But it gave him his due I guess. Would have been nice for it to be a tad bit longer and still have kept it at a novella length.
November 5, 2021
Nothing to Sink Teeth Into
Brandon and Lauren are… tepid. How their story resumed was presented as underwhelming, and also at the same time, overwrought emotionally, somehow? Very little tattooing, very few appearances from anyone series familiars, know, and to be frank, there’s no real reason for this short to be a part of the larger Montgomery, world.
Brandon and Lauren are… tepid. How their story resumed was presented as underwhelming, and also at the same time, overwrought emotionally, somehow? Very little tattooing, very few appearances from anyone series familiars, know, and to be frank, there’s no real reason for this short to be a part of the larger Montgomery, world.
March 30, 2018
Oh wow!
Brandon works with the Montgomery's at the tattoo shop, when one day his old love of his life walks in. Lauren has just stepped in to Montgomery Ink to get a tattoo, when she see a ghost from her past. So she did what she did six year ago, she run!
Brandon works with the Montgomery's at the tattoo shop, when one day his old love of his life walks in. Lauren has just stepped in to Montgomery Ink to get a tattoo, when she see a ghost from her past. So she did what she did six year ago, she run!
March 31, 2018
Brandon's story
Brandon finally has his story and his HE A. This novella is much shorter than Carrie's usual stories, but is still a good read. I gave it four stars only because of the big jump from first day reunited to epilogue.
Brandon finally has his story and his HE A. This novella is much shorter than Carrie's usual stories, but is still a good read. I gave it four stars only because of the big jump from first day reunited to epilogue.
April 3, 2018
Sweet Short story
Sweet short story by Author Carrie Ann Ryan catches us up with some of our favorite Montgomery Ink artists. Once again she gives us a well written and detailed story that makes you feel like you are right there in the middle if the action.
Sweet short story by Author Carrie Ann Ryan catches us up with some of our favorite Montgomery Ink artists. Once again she gives us a well written and detailed story that makes you feel like you are right there in the middle if the action.
April 3, 2018
Absence didn't only make their hearts grow fonder BUT more intense.
Lauren and Brandon we're always meant to be One but circumstances intervened. This is a beautiful story of correcting mistakes.
Lauren and Brandon we're always meant to be One but circumstances intervened. This is a beautiful story of correcting mistakes.
April 5, 2018
Great series
This was a great quick read addition to the Montgomery Ink series. The history between Brandon and Lauren goes back a number of years and a chance reunion at Montgomery Ink reignites old feelings.
This was a great quick read addition to the Montgomery Ink series. The history between Brandon and Lauren goes back a number of years and a chance reunion at Montgomery Ink reignites old feelings.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews