What do you think?
Rate this book
Without Exception
Alex Scott is an asshole!
He’s rude, obnoxious, and hell-bent on evicting me from the tattoo studio my parents and I worked so hard to perfect. So, it’s not just a shop to me. This place holds life, it affirms love, it contains memories. And when my world fell to pieces twelve months ago, it’s what kept me from doing the same.
Through the darkness, there’s one shining light. A client. Xander. He’s secretive, he comes and goes whenever he pleases, but our connection is obvious. I want more from him. But he’s a mystery.
Two men. Polar opposites. Alex Scott’s a brooding warmonger, hungry for action, constantly emailing and driving me crazy. I won’t let him evict me. While Xander is a kind, sweet, caring soul whose only want is to look after my autistic brother and me. He’s sweeping me off my feet.
Conflict - Betrayal - Lust - Angst
Without exception, my heart will break. One man will put it back together again. But which one?
He’s rude, obnoxious, and hell-bent on evicting me from the tattoo studio my parents and I worked so hard to perfect. So, it’s not just a shop to me. This place holds life, it affirms love, it contains memories. And when my world fell to pieces twelve months ago, it’s what kept me from doing the same.
Through the darkness, there’s one shining light. A client. Xander. He’s secretive, he comes and goes whenever he pleases, but our connection is obvious. I want more from him. But he’s a mystery.
Two men. Polar opposites. Alex Scott’s a brooding warmonger, hungry for action, constantly emailing and driving me crazy. I won’t let him evict me. While Xander is a kind, sweet, caring soul whose only want is to look after my autistic brother and me. He’s sweeping me off my feet.
Conflict - Betrayal - Lust - Angst
Without exception, my heart will break. One man will put it back together again. But which one?
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2019
61 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
K.E. Osborn
112 books1,626 followersWith a flair for all things creative, USA Today Bestselling Author K E Osborn, is drawn to the written word. Exciting worlds and characters flow through her veins, coming to life on the page as she laughs, cries, and becomes enveloped in the storyline right along with you. She's entirely at home when writing sassy heroines and alpha males that rise from the ashes of their pasts.
K E Osborn comforts herself with tea and Netflix, after all, who doesn't love a good binge?
Explosive. Addictive. Romance. www.keosbornauthor.com
K E Osborn comforts herself with tea and Netflix, after all, who doesn't love a good binge?
Explosive. Addictive. Romance. www.keosbornauthor.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 26, 2019
Title: ➳ Without Exception
Author: ➳ K.E. Osborn
Publication: ➳ September 18th 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐⭐
💖💖💖💖💖
ღ This book, just wow …. K.E. Osborn book made me laugh so hard & cry those ugly tears, but in enjoy & heart ache! I really like her writing style. The story was easy to read & the dialogue sounded true to life. It was fast paced & held my interest throughout the entire story.
Tomi & Xander, Alex Story hold some much Conflict - Secrets -Betrayal - Lust - Angst – Lies- but at the same time hold so much love
Tomi -Hope & Faith Ink is her life, besides her 16 years ago brother with special needs. Until she realizes that she losing the battle of trying keep her beloved tattoo shop from being demolish from Building development company (Scott Enterprises)
Tomi, don’t really know much about Xander! Only that he been coming into her shop on & off for few years now.
It all started with simple lunch & grew from there. Of course, Tomi is worried about letting any men into her life cuz of her brother. Tomi was floored when Levi connected with Xander
Well what can I tell you about Alex Scott, only that he has been so far too focused on work & occupied on getting where he needs to be to impress his father & to be the man, he needs to be for him.
Alex Scott is also the man who has singlehandedly ruined Tomi’s life. Or so she thinks! Only time will tell -when there are so hidden Secrets & lies
➳ I just love love Levi & hot dang I thought there for while that Aldwin was not gonna get over himself & do the right thing for his son.. I can say that Aldwin is a work in progress!
Also, I’m so glad that Tomi didn’t follow her own rules of no dating the clients
--------------Enjoy ----------------------------
📚 Hope you enjoy this read & also always keep in mind this is just my opinion+ Also I wouldn’t never discourage anyone from reading this book.
➦*I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review of it. 💕
💕 . .**This has not influenced my review.* **
----------- Happy Reading -----------
Paulette Review
Author: ➳ K.E. Osborn
Publication: ➳ September 18th 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐⭐
💖💖💖💖💖
ღ This book, just wow …. K.E. Osborn book made me laugh so hard & cry those ugly tears, but in enjoy & heart ache! I really like her writing style. The story was easy to read & the dialogue sounded true to life. It was fast paced & held my interest throughout the entire story.
Tomi & Xander, Alex Story hold some much Conflict - Secrets -Betrayal - Lust - Angst – Lies- but at the same time hold so much love
Tomi -Hope & Faith Ink is her life, besides her 16 years ago brother with special needs. Until she realizes that she losing the battle of trying keep her beloved tattoo shop from being demolish from Building development company (Scott Enterprises)
Tomi, don’t really know much about Xander! Only that he been coming into her shop on & off for few years now.
It all started with simple lunch & grew from there. Of course, Tomi is worried about letting any men into her life cuz of her brother. Tomi was floored when Levi connected with Xander
Well what can I tell you about Alex Scott, only that he has been so far too focused on work & occupied on getting where he needs to be to impress his father & to be the man, he needs to be for him.
Alex Scott is also the man who has singlehandedly ruined Tomi’s life. Or so she thinks! Only time will tell -when there are so hidden Secrets & lies
➳ I just love love Levi & hot dang I thought there for while that Aldwin was not gonna get over himself & do the right thing for his son.. I can say that Aldwin is a work in progress!
Also, I’m so glad that Tomi didn’t follow her own rules of no dating the clients
--------------Enjoy ----------------------------
📚 Hope you enjoy this read & also always keep in mind this is just my opinion+ Also I wouldn’t never discourage anyone from reading this book.
➦*I received an ecopy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review of it. 💕
💕 . .**This has not influenced my review.* **
----------- Happy Reading -----------
Paulette Review
September 17, 2019
Loved this story! Well written and gives you an emotional ride.
After dealing with a life altering tragedy, Tomi has stepped up to the plate. All of the stability she has worked so hard for for Levi, and herself, is being torn down. Literally. Luckily she has a solid handful of people she can rely on and that’s included Xander recently. But Xander hasn’t been completely honest with Tomi and knows when she finds out what’s really going on it could cost him everything.
After dealing with a life altering tragedy, Tomi has stepped up to the plate. All of the stability she has worked so hard for for Levi, and herself, is being torn down. Literally. Luckily she has a solid handful of people she can rely on and that’s included Xander recently. But Xander hasn’t been completely honest with Tomi and knows when she finds out what’s really going on it could cost him everything.
September 5, 2019
Without Exception by KE Osborn is absolutely delicious. I gobbled this book up in no time at all.
Tomi has worked hard to be where she is now. She is the owner of Hope and Faith Ink, a tattoo shop her family helped her to build. A family she lost in a car accident.
All that remains is this shop and her special needs brother whom she loves more than anything or anyone.
Now, thanks to Alex Scott, she is about to lose the shop she and her family made together and up-end the life she created for her brother, Levi.
Alex Scott is an @sshole but Xander is exactly what she is looking for.
How can one man cause so much turmoil? Will Tomi lose everything she’s worked so hard for?
I loved the main characters Xander and Tomi. They are so full of passion, desire, lust and love. Told in dual point-of-view, I came to know the characters and their motivations and it made me love each of them so much harder.
Xander and Tomi’s almost-first-kiss was truly intoxicating. It had me at the edge of my seat waiting for it to happen. It was truly passionate even though it never materialized. I’ve never felt so much anticipation for a couple’s first kiss.
I’ve also never been so anxious. This couple is perfect together. Wondering when the other shoe would drop and what the aftermath would be was nerve-wracking.
I loved that this book had no other woman/other man drama and that it rode simply on the Alex/Tomi/Xander dynamic. That was enough to keep me completely engaged.
The ending is very cute and satisfying ending although I found there was a little filler toward the end that wasn’t necessarily needed.
This was my introduction to KE Osborn and I’m wondering what took me so long to pick up one of her books.
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinion are my own.
Tomi has worked hard to be where she is now. She is the owner of Hope and Faith Ink, a tattoo shop her family helped her to build. A family she lost in a car accident.
All that remains is this shop and her special needs brother whom she loves more than anything or anyone.
Now, thanks to Alex Scott, she is about to lose the shop she and her family made together and up-end the life she created for her brother, Levi.
Alex Scott is an @sshole but Xander is exactly what she is looking for.
How can one man cause so much turmoil? Will Tomi lose everything she’s worked so hard for?
I loved the main characters Xander and Tomi. They are so full of passion, desire, lust and love. Told in dual point-of-view, I came to know the characters and their motivations and it made me love each of them so much harder.
Xander and Tomi’s almost-first-kiss was truly intoxicating. It had me at the edge of my seat waiting for it to happen. It was truly passionate even though it never materialized. I’ve never felt so much anticipation for a couple’s first kiss.
I’ve also never been so anxious. This couple is perfect together. Wondering when the other shoe would drop and what the aftermath would be was nerve-wracking.
I loved that this book had no other woman/other man drama and that it rode simply on the Alex/Tomi/Xander dynamic. That was enough to keep me completely engaged.
The ending is very cute and satisfying ending although I found there was a little filler toward the end that wasn’t necessarily needed.
This was my introduction to KE Osborn and I’m wondering what took me so long to pick up one of her books.
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinion are my own.
September 10, 2019
This is the first book by KE Osborn that I have read.
The story follows Tomi, her brother, Levi, and her tattoo shop.
Along comes Xander who woos her but at the same time, her livelihood is threatened by Alexander Scott who wants to tear down her shop to create a mega mall.
I'm not going to give away too much but I will say, it's very well written and I can't wait to read more of KE's works.
The chemistry between Tomi and Xander is hot and the way that man deals with her brother... swoon worthy.
You don't want to miss this book!
The story follows Tomi, her brother, Levi, and her tattoo shop.
Along comes Xander who woos her but at the same time, her livelihood is threatened by Alexander Scott who wants to tear down her shop to create a mega mall.
I'm not going to give away too much but I will say, it's very well written and I can't wait to read more of KE's works.
The chemistry between Tomi and Xander is hot and the way that man deals with her brother... swoon worthy.
You don't want to miss this book!
September 18, 2019
Tomi loves her tattoo shop. Hope and Faith Ink is the last connection she has to her parents. When Alex Scott throws a wrench into her life she is furious. But little does she know that there's a huge secret being kept from her and when she finds out, everything she has known is in question. This book three me for a loop. I was not expecting how emotional it was and I'm excited to see what's in store.
September 24, 2019
Loved this story. It has everything I love about a contemporary romance, angst, love and a twist.
March 9, 2020
Filled with intense swoon worthy love and secrets and deceptions this was a great read. The reader will have a love/hate relationship with Alex and will have an emotional connection with Zander. Throw in the high spirited but completely consumed with responsibility Tomi and you have a match made for a TV series. I was locked in from the opening pages and with each and every chapter became more involved in the story. This book has the complete package: great characters, intense storyline and a high emotional impact.
September 17, 2019
Oh man y'all, talk about all the feels! KE Osborn is one of my favorite authors as I love her Chicago Defiance MC series and The Without Series is no exception! ;)
To give a little background- Tomi is a fantastic tattoo artist and her shop is her baby. It not only provides her a livelihood, but it also brings a sense of comfort and memories for her parents and sister that were in a tragic accident a year before. But, there is an evil villan in the story looking to take away her happy place- Alex Scott. There is a shining star though- Xander a super sexy client that makes her feel some type of way though he is wrapped up tight in mystery. What happens when everything blows up, who will be the one to help her through the time? Will either one of them be able to?
AHHHH!! So freaking good! I love how the author was not trying to hide anything from the reader and it was all laid out there. All in all, if you like a good contemporary romance with a secret twist and all the feels and steamy moments- this is "Without Exception" your go to!
PS: Thank you to KE Osborn and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for allowing me an advanced copy to read and review!
To give a little background- Tomi is a fantastic tattoo artist and her shop is her baby. It not only provides her a livelihood, but it also brings a sense of comfort and memories for her parents and sister that were in a tragic accident a year before. But, there is an evil villan in the story looking to take away her happy place- Alex Scott. There is a shining star though- Xander a super sexy client that makes her feel some type of way though he is wrapped up tight in mystery. What happens when everything blows up, who will be the one to help her through the time? Will either one of them be able to?
AHHHH!! So freaking good! I love how the author was not trying to hide anything from the reader and it was all laid out there. All in all, if you like a good contemporary romance with a secret twist and all the feels and steamy moments- this is "Without Exception" your go to!
PS: Thank you to KE Osborn and Enticing Journey Book Promotions for allowing me an advanced copy to read and review!
September 18, 2019
Tomi is responsible for her 16 year old autistic brother who is her only family and who she would do anything to protect. When the livelihood of her tattoo shop is threatened by Alex Scott, she is going to go down swinging.
While she is trying to handle the stress of the situation, she finds herself in the one person who is there for her is one of her client’s Xander. Although they have shared a professional relationship for a while it is starting to feel very personal but will the secrets he holds be her salvation or her downfall?
I enjoyed both these characters as Tomi is feisty, fiery and determined to what is best for her brother while Xander is conflicted between love and loyalty. Heat, heart and humor all combine into a compelling storyline.
While she is trying to handle the stress of the situation, she finds herself in the one person who is there for her is one of her client’s Xander. Although they have shared a professional relationship for a while it is starting to feel very personal but will the secrets he holds be her salvation or her downfall?
I enjoyed both these characters as Tomi is feisty, fiery and determined to what is best for her brother while Xander is conflicted between love and loyalty. Heat, heart and humor all combine into a compelling storyline.
September 18, 2019
Tomi owns and runs a tattoo shop named Hope & Faith Ink. She also takes care of her special needs brother Levi, since their parents and sister were killed in a car accident. Xander is a mysterious customer that is sexy, and totally attracted to Tomi. Tomi is dealing with Alex Scott and his father's company that want to demolish her shop for a complex. She can't seem to get Alex on the phone and has only had contact with him through email. Xander is hiding a shocking secret that could destroy any relationship between him and Tomi. How will things turn out in the end? A must read story that is heartbreaking but uplifting at the same time.
October 11, 2019
I loved this book. KE Osborn is really good at action-packed stories, so I knew this one would be exciting going in. It's also heartfelt and sweet, as well as romantic as hell. Great family dynamics -- I loved the way the hero and the heroine interacted, and also the way the hero cared for the heroine's brother. Steamy, intense, passionate, and believable. Great read.
September 19, 2019
Tomi and Xander's story is great! Tomi is raising her brother Levi and working as a tattoo artist. Xander is a client and keeping a big secret from her. I loved seeing how well Xander and Levi interacted.
August 16, 2019
Super cute and sexy. Without Exception make me smile ear to ear and reminded me that at the end of the day, family is everything.
September 18, 2019
Tomika (Tomi) has to step up to the plate when she loses almost everything she loves. She's now the sole guardian of her special needs brother, Levi, so she really needs to make sure the corporation trying to obliterate Hope & Faith Ink, her tattoo shop and legacy, doesn't succeed. The man from that company who constantly emails her harassing her, Alex Scott, is her enemy, she hates him with a passion. She'll do whatever it takes to keep Alex Scott from destroying her and Levi's livelihood, their legacy. And then there's the mysterious Xander, her client for the past two years. There's something about him that she just cannot resist. But when she finds out his secret, it will most definitely destroy whatever feelings the two of them have developed for each other.
Wow, I am seriously impressed by Without Exception. I loved Tomi and Levi, so was cheering when Xander turned out to be perfect for them. He seamlessly fit into their lives, and forged a bond with Levi that Tomi couldn't help but fall in love with him for. And Tomi? That woman's a rockstar! So strong and compassionate and did her absolute best to not only give Levi the life he deserved, but did her best by her legacy shop, too, and all the people there who depended on her. I am most definitely going to be reading more of KE Osborn's writing in the future after having read, and loved, Without Exception.
ARC via Enticing Journey Book Promotions for an honest review.
Full review ---> Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
September 19, 2019
✯✯5 Hope & Ink Filled Stars!!!✯✯
I was hooked from the instant I read the blurb. I am a huge fan of KE Osborn since the first book of hers that I read. Every new book she releases I fall for her even more. Without Exception was another 5 star read for me.
Tomi owns her tattoo shop Hope & Ink. She’s also the caregiver to her 16 year old brother Levi. Her brother has special needs, so they live their lives on strict routines. When Tomi gets word that Alex Scott of Scott Enterprises is evicting her from Hope & Ink she vows to fight tooth and nail against it. Her and Levi lost enough after their parents and sister past away and Tomi won’t let them loose the store.
For past few years Xander shows up randomly to get tattooed by Tomi. She looks forward to it. Tomi has a strict rule against dating clients. But, when Xander invites her to lunch she doesn’t say no. Their relationship grew from there. Tomi was nervous introducing Levi to Xander but when they hit it quick and had an instant connection she really felt it was right. It wasn’t until Tomi learned Xander’s secrets and true identity that she felt the ground crumble beneath her.
Alex Scott AKA Xander works for his father at Scott Enterprises. He’s do to be CEO after his dad retires and until then he must follow his dads rules. Which is hard for him bc he doesn’t agree with the things his dad does sometimes.
Falling for Tomi wasn’t something he planned or did on purpose. She just made it so easy and then he met Levi and he knew he belonged with them. Tomi’s vented to him about her hated for Alex Scott and Xander knows he needs to tell her the truth. But, he’s afraid of loosing her and Levi.
Xander’s trying so hard to not let Tomi loose Hope & Ink. He’s making plans and working things out. Xander just hopes that when he sits down and explains everything to Tomi she understands. Xander will give everything up for Tomi and Levi.
This was such an amazing story. Once I picked it up I didn’t put it down. Even though Xander lied to Tomi for awhile he never lied about his feelings. When he learned about Levi’s conditions he went and researched everything to know about it and how to help Levi with anything that might come up. The way he loved Tomi and wanted to make sure she had everything she wanted and deserved was just amazing.
Tomi was another amazing character. The love she had for her brother was real and touching. The way she wanted to keep her families alive was touching. Even how her coworkers lives she worried about showed how much of an amazing women she was.
I totally understood why she reacted to the Alex/Xander situation. It def felt like a slap in the face. It would’ve for me. I was glad Tomi cooled off enough to listen to him.
I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. Nice that KE Osborn is writing just unconnected stand-alone books. Can’t wait for the next duo.
I was hooked from the instant I read the blurb. I am a huge fan of KE Osborn since the first book of hers that I read. Every new book she releases I fall for her even more. Without Exception was another 5 star read for me.
Tomi owns her tattoo shop Hope & Ink. She’s also the caregiver to her 16 year old brother Levi. Her brother has special needs, so they live their lives on strict routines. When Tomi gets word that Alex Scott of Scott Enterprises is evicting her from Hope & Ink she vows to fight tooth and nail against it. Her and Levi lost enough after their parents and sister past away and Tomi won’t let them loose the store.
For past few years Xander shows up randomly to get tattooed by Tomi. She looks forward to it. Tomi has a strict rule against dating clients. But, when Xander invites her to lunch she doesn’t say no. Their relationship grew from there. Tomi was nervous introducing Levi to Xander but when they hit it quick and had an instant connection she really felt it was right. It wasn’t until Tomi learned Xander’s secrets and true identity that she felt the ground crumble beneath her.
Alex Scott AKA Xander works for his father at Scott Enterprises. He’s do to be CEO after his dad retires and until then he must follow his dads rules. Which is hard for him bc he doesn’t agree with the things his dad does sometimes.
Falling for Tomi wasn’t something he planned or did on purpose. She just made it so easy and then he met Levi and he knew he belonged with them. Tomi’s vented to him about her hated for Alex Scott and Xander knows he needs to tell her the truth. But, he’s afraid of loosing her and Levi.
Xander’s trying so hard to not let Tomi loose Hope & Ink. He’s making plans and working things out. Xander just hopes that when he sits down and explains everything to Tomi she understands. Xander will give everything up for Tomi and Levi.
This was such an amazing story. Once I picked it up I didn’t put it down. Even though Xander lied to Tomi for awhile he never lied about his feelings. When he learned about Levi’s conditions he went and researched everything to know about it and how to help Levi with anything that might come up. The way he loved Tomi and wanted to make sure she had everything she wanted and deserved was just amazing.
Tomi was another amazing character. The love she had for her brother was real and touching. The way she wanted to keep her families alive was touching. Even how her coworkers lives she worried about showed how much of an amazing women she was.
I totally understood why she reacted to the Alex/Xander situation. It def felt like a slap in the face. It would’ve for me. I was glad Tomi cooled off enough to listen to him.
I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. Nice that KE Osborn is writing just unconnected stand-alone books. Can’t wait for the next duo.
September 11, 2019
The tattoo artist and the COO ... EXCEPTIONAL
KE Osborn never fails to surprise me with her stories and she has done it once again. WITHOUT EXCEPTION is exceptional. It is an emotional, humourous, sweet and completely endearing story. From the moment I began reading it I had a neverending smile on my face. KE's characters are relatable and likeable. Her writing just flowed beautifully.
Tomika "Tomi" Beaufort owns a tattoo shop and since the death of her parents and sister, is the main carer of her younger brother Levi, who has special needs. Tomi's livelihood is being threatened as she is about to be evicted from her shop by Alex Scott, COO of Scott Enterprises, a man who she has come to detest. Tomi also has broken one of her golden rules and has fallen for a mysterious client called "Just Xander". Xander is absolutely charming. he really swept Tomi off her feet. This was a man who would do anything for both Tomi and Levi. However, Xander has a secret, one that could affect their budding relationship. In Tomi's eyes it could be seen as a betrayal. As their relationship developes Xander knows he must be honest with Tomi. Will he risk everything to keep the woman he loves? Will he risk having a family to love?
Beautifully written, KE brings across the heartache and struggles that Tomi and Levi have had to endure since losing their parents and sister. The way in which she relates the developing relationship between Tomi and Xander and Levi and Xander is simply flawless. Eveything is done at a believeable and realistic pace ... nothing is rushed.
This story had all of KE's strengths demonstrated throughout: romance, disappointment, angst, passion and love. Tomi displayed such strength in her character and Xander was full of compassion and understanding. Yes there was heartache, but there was also plenty of happiness.
As I said, I smiled from beginning to end. Definitely a book to be read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE EXCEPTIONAL STARS
KE Osborn never fails to surprise me with her stories and she has done it once again. WITHOUT EXCEPTION is exceptional. It is an emotional, humourous, sweet and completely endearing story. From the moment I began reading it I had a neverending smile on my face. KE's characters are relatable and likeable. Her writing just flowed beautifully.
Tomika "Tomi" Beaufort owns a tattoo shop and since the death of her parents and sister, is the main carer of her younger brother Levi, who has special needs. Tomi's livelihood is being threatened as she is about to be evicted from her shop by Alex Scott, COO of Scott Enterprises, a man who she has come to detest. Tomi also has broken one of her golden rules and has fallen for a mysterious client called "Just Xander". Xander is absolutely charming. he really swept Tomi off her feet. This was a man who would do anything for both Tomi and Levi. However, Xander has a secret, one that could affect their budding relationship. In Tomi's eyes it could be seen as a betrayal. As their relationship developes Xander knows he must be honest with Tomi. Will he risk everything to keep the woman he loves? Will he risk having a family to love?
Beautifully written, KE brings across the heartache and struggles that Tomi and Levi have had to endure since losing their parents and sister. The way in which she relates the developing relationship between Tomi and Xander and Levi and Xander is simply flawless. Eveything is done at a believeable and realistic pace ... nothing is rushed.
This story had all of KE's strengths demonstrated throughout: romance, disappointment, angst, passion and love. Tomi displayed such strength in her character and Xander was full of compassion and understanding. Yes there was heartache, but there was also plenty of happiness.
As I said, I smiled from beginning to end. Definitely a book to be read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE EXCEPTIONAL STARS
September 5, 2019
This romance story was fast paced and full of misunderstanding, conflict, passion and betrayal. K.E. Osborn has done a wonderful job telling this story about Tomi a tattoo artist who has been dealt a heartbreak losing her family and has taken the role of caregiver for her 16 year old brother with special needs. Now she is dealing with helping her brother Levi and Scott Enterprises who is eviciting her from her studio, namely Alex Scott who she hates with a passion. The only bright side is sexy mysterious Xander who is a client for the past two years. She is drawn to this sexy man but unknown to her he is keeping something from her. The connection between these two was explosive from the start so Tomi decides to go against her rule about not dating clients and gives him a chance. The way Xander interacts with her brother Levi is moving and full of understanding as a strong bond develops between them. Xander will do all he can even go against his father inorder to help Tomi and her brother, but as their relationship develops he knows he has to tell Tomi the truth. When the truth is revealed Tomi is heartbroken and wants nothing to do with him. Xander is determine to win her back and give her the one thing she wants the most her tattoo studio. Now Tomi is faced with a development that will change her and Xander's life forever and seeks him out. When she learns that her hate was directed towards the wrong person regarding the loss of her studio and tells Xander her news, he is elated and she agrees to be with him again. This story had it all family drama, angst, intrigue, emotion, passion and love as these two fight their way back to become a family. Without Exception is a beautiful romance story that was full of emotion and passion. I highly recommend this book. I voluntairly reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
November 6, 2019
Tomi and Xander, seriously a must-read, no exception!
There was every thing to love about this book from KE Osborn, from her characters and the story, right through to her writing style. I will also admit that I went into this book with a preconceived reticence about the possible plot and was so very happy at how it unfolded.
No blurb chat from me though. I’m just going to wax lyrical about how much I loved Tomi and Xander. The level of loyalty from both of them just had me cheering in both corners, they were that good!
Tomi and her brother suffered the worst of family tragedies, and she absolutely stepped up as the caregiver for her autistic brother Levi, who was 9 years her junior. Having friends with children on the spectrum, I believe that Ms Osborn did Levi’s character justice, and the honesty in Tomi’s descriptions of her struggles with him as they transitioned through a huge change in routine did her character credit. Tomi’s wider work family in the Tattoo shop are all hilarious hard cases and I certainly look forward to reading more from them in the future. What I loved the most was the absolute love and loyalty between them all.
Xander was a unicorn book boyfriend. I’m going no deeper than that other than to say that he had every opportunity to turn out as spoiled and selfish as his father. Instead, he became his father’s conscience and for me, that is what made him shine as a character. He put love and loyalty for his ‘chosen’ family ahead of everything else – THAT is a hero. Hands down.
I read in another review that this book left the reader on a high, and I absolutely have to agree. I finished this book with the best feeling ever and I’m thinking that I have to have this as a signed paperback on my collectables shelf. 5 Stars and a highly recommended reading from me.
There was every thing to love about this book from KE Osborn, from her characters and the story, right through to her writing style. I will also admit that I went into this book with a preconceived reticence about the possible plot and was so very happy at how it unfolded.
No blurb chat from me though. I’m just going to wax lyrical about how much I loved Tomi and Xander. The level of loyalty from both of them just had me cheering in both corners, they were that good!
Tomi and her brother suffered the worst of family tragedies, and she absolutely stepped up as the caregiver for her autistic brother Levi, who was 9 years her junior. Having friends with children on the spectrum, I believe that Ms Osborn did Levi’s character justice, and the honesty in Tomi’s descriptions of her struggles with him as they transitioned through a huge change in routine did her character credit. Tomi’s wider work family in the Tattoo shop are all hilarious hard cases and I certainly look forward to reading more from them in the future. What I loved the most was the absolute love and loyalty between them all.
Xander was a unicorn book boyfriend. I’m going no deeper than that other than to say that he had every opportunity to turn out as spoiled and selfish as his father. Instead, he became his father’s conscience and for me, that is what made him shine as a character. He put love and loyalty for his ‘chosen’ family ahead of everything else – THAT is a hero. Hands down.
I read in another review that this book left the reader on a high, and I absolutely have to agree. I finished this book with the best feeling ever and I’m thinking that I have to have this as a signed paperback on my collectables shelf. 5 Stars and a highly recommended reading from me.
September 18, 2019
Awesome 4.5 star read
I have read so many books by this author but I think I must say this is my favorite by far. It was everything. When I say that I mean it. I have had such a horrible summer trying to read. Nothing and I mean nothing keeps me attached past the first chapter. This one let me tell you did. I had me wanting more and waiting for the shoe to drop. The romance, sexual attraction, then you have so much suspense, ane one heck of a twist and turn. I loved the gamut.
Ms. Osborn pulls you in. I had belly-laughing moments, then some heartbreak. I loved the relationship between Tomi and her brother Levi. So loving and tender and she lets him be. She is struggling to make it now that she knows her shop is going to be shut down. It pays for everything. The roof over her head and her brother's special needs school.
Xander is illusive. He comes and goes and it can be months between tattoo visits. He has an attraction to Tomi as well. Now with all that, there is an element that brings surprise and twists.
Tomi needs Hope and Faith to stay afloat. She doesn't want to let her friends down and have them lose their jobs. Tomi opened Hope and Faith with the help of her family and now that they have passed it is the only thing she has left. Alex Scott wants to shut it down and open a vast mega-complex and that is not something Tomi can afford in rent.
Again, Ms. Osborn outdid herself and loved this book. I was only upset when it ended and I wanted to read more. It reads well and the flow is great. She started the series off with a bang and I can't wait for more. I truly enjoyed this read.
I have read so many books by this author but I think I must say this is my favorite by far. It was everything. When I say that I mean it. I have had such a horrible summer trying to read. Nothing and I mean nothing keeps me attached past the first chapter. This one let me tell you did. I had me wanting more and waiting for the shoe to drop. The romance, sexual attraction, then you have so much suspense, ane one heck of a twist and turn. I loved the gamut.
Ms. Osborn pulls you in. I had belly-laughing moments, then some heartbreak. I loved the relationship between Tomi and her brother Levi. So loving and tender and she lets him be. She is struggling to make it now that she knows her shop is going to be shut down. It pays for everything. The roof over her head and her brother's special needs school.
Xander is illusive. He comes and goes and it can be months between tattoo visits. He has an attraction to Tomi as well. Now with all that, there is an element that brings surprise and twists.
Tomi needs Hope and Faith to stay afloat. She doesn't want to let her friends down and have them lose their jobs. Tomi opened Hope and Faith with the help of her family and now that they have passed it is the only thing she has left. Alex Scott wants to shut it down and open a vast mega-complex and that is not something Tomi can afford in rent.
Again, Ms. Osborn outdid herself and loved this book. I was only upset when it ended and I wanted to read more. It reads well and the flow is great. She started the series off with a bang and I can't wait for more. I truly enjoyed this read.
September 16, 2019
Okay so this is a hard review to write because for the most part, I liked the story and the characters are really well done. They are vibrant and full of life. This story, one of loss and moving on, family, and doing what's right, makes for a good read. The problems are that 1) I'm not a fan of "misunderstanding or subterfuge" stories which I didn't realize this was and 2) there are two conflicts that are resolved in ways that stretch even the most generous "it's only fiction not reality" definition.
The good news is that K.E. Osborn's writing is quite well done. Her flow is nicely paced and her heated scenes definitely hit high on the sexy scale. Both lead characters, Xander and Tomi, are fully fleshed out with a real-life feel to them. Tomi's autistic brother, Levi is wonderfully written and a great addition to the story.
The bad news is I just can't get align Xander as a man with any intelligence when he thought that what he was doing was going to work out well for him, he takes her to his house where his name is on plaques on the walls, and then expects her to listen to him at all. Then the resolve is a bit of information that should have been given to the heroine long before the eviction process. The second conflict, that with Xander's father, who went being the type of man who sleeps with his assistant, denigrates his son, calls Levi an "idiot' and Tomi trash to her face to literally overnight regretting it and crawling back for forgiveness. Both scenarios resolutions were just way too contrived and pat, even for fiction.
August 29, 2019
I love mystery in a story and this has it... a mysterious guy who comes into Tomi’s tattoo shop for his tattoo art, as well as the wicked Alex Scott, someone who is vocal through written communication only!
Deception:- noun : the act of causing someone to accept as true or valid what is false or invalid: the act of deceiving. If anything Tomi is an upfront type of woman who is the opposite of this description however not all of the book’s characters can have the same said for them.
I absolutely loved Tomi, she is a sassy, take no nonsense type of woman who is hard working and her love for Levi, her young brother, is endearing. Xander is one hunk of a man who gets a tick from me for his wonderful response to Levi. He certainly has a warm heart but caused a lot of confusion with his actions. I do have to say he has some wicked wheels!
My heart went out to Tomi, with everything that has happened to her family and then an eviction. I felt so raw with the emotional turmoil she went through, it felt so real. As well, there’s a fabulous sense of humour that’s has you chuckling out loud, it balanced things nicely. Great descriptions made the story come alive.
I loved this story so much, it left me on such a high. Now, I need to be patient and wait for the next book in the series.
Deception:- noun : the act of causing someone to accept as true or valid what is false or invalid: the act of deceiving. If anything Tomi is an upfront type of woman who is the opposite of this description however not all of the book’s characters can have the same said for them.
I absolutely loved Tomi, she is a sassy, take no nonsense type of woman who is hard working and her love for Levi, her young brother, is endearing. Xander is one hunk of a man who gets a tick from me for his wonderful response to Levi. He certainly has a warm heart but caused a lot of confusion with his actions. I do have to say he has some wicked wheels!
My heart went out to Tomi, with everything that has happened to her family and then an eviction. I felt so raw with the emotional turmoil she went through, it felt so real. As well, there’s a fabulous sense of humour that’s has you chuckling out loud, it balanced things nicely. Great descriptions made the story come alive.
I loved this story so much, it left me on such a high. Now, I need to be patient and wait for the next book in the series.
September 20, 2019
Multiple Reviews Below
5Stars
WOW, how freaking good was this book! My first read of miss Osborn's but definitely not the last now... mystery, intrigue and good old fashioned romance, what more could a reader ask for! I love how all her characters have fierce personalities, the banter between Xander and the feisty Tommi especially makes for fabulous one-liners!! This book had me hooked from the start, I could not put it down... this was an original story, it was heartbreaking but heartwarming at the same time... love really does overcome all.
Reviewed by Nat
4.5 stars
This book was brilliant, unique and a totally emotion-fueled read. This was a different direction for KE Osborn and it totally worked. How someone can make a story heartbreaking, yet so uplifting and heartening is a gift.
The character is all bold, strong and leads this story with guts and a will that takes no prisoners. The banter in this book makes it. It fills it with emotions that make it totally real. It's a story I feel you have to read first hand. Hence the vague review. Just go in eyes wide open and enjoy.
This book is a great read and a total recommend from me. It will keep you engaged and hoping. A beautiful love story, although don't expect all happiness and romance.
Reviewed by Robyn
5Stars
WOW, how freaking good was this book! My first read of miss Osborn's but definitely not the last now... mystery, intrigue and good old fashioned romance, what more could a reader ask for! I love how all her characters have fierce personalities, the banter between Xander and the feisty Tommi especially makes for fabulous one-liners!! This book had me hooked from the start, I could not put it down... this was an original story, it was heartbreaking but heartwarming at the same time... love really does overcome all.
Reviewed by Nat
4.5 stars
This book was brilliant, unique and a totally emotion-fueled read. This was a different direction for KE Osborn and it totally worked. How someone can make a story heartbreaking, yet so uplifting and heartening is a gift.
The character is all bold, strong and leads this story with guts and a will that takes no prisoners. The banter in this book makes it. It fills it with emotions that make it totally real. It's a story I feel you have to read first hand. Hence the vague review. Just go in eyes wide open and enjoy.
This book is a great read and a total recommend from me. It will keep you engaged and hoping. A beautiful love story, although don't expect all happiness and romance.
Reviewed by Robyn
August 22, 2019
Tomi loves her tattoo studio Hope and Faith Ink which her late parents helped her to set up, but developer Alex Smith is determined to close her down and redevelop the site - what an asshole!!! The only light in her life is autistic brother Levi and kind, sweet and secretive customer, Xander who cares for her and her brother and is sweeping her off her feet. When things come to a head her heart is going to be broken and she is going to feel betrayed - the question is who is going to be the man to put her back together again?
Wow - this was a story that creeps up on you are you read the story and sympathise with Tomi over Alex Scott and feel great for her and her relationship with Xander. When the truth comes out it is heartbreaking and I could feel all of her frustration and heartbreak as she worked through the betrayal she had felt. As the story progressed it was great to read of the chance at a HEA they had if they had the courage to believe in what they had and the power of family. Well written and very enjoyable, this story is guaranteed to leave you feeling emotional at times.
Wow - this was a story that creeps up on you are you read the story and sympathise with Tomi over Alex Scott and feel great for her and her relationship with Xander. When the truth comes out it is heartbreaking and I could feel all of her frustration and heartbreak as she worked through the betrayal she had felt. As the story progressed it was great to read of the chance at a HEA they had if they had the courage to believe in what they had and the power of family. Well written and very enjoyable, this story is guaranteed to leave you feeling emotional at times.
September 15, 2019
Why now? When Tomi's dealing with the world's worst man does the one man who might be able to change her mind about men have to walk into her life? Truth, he walked into her popular tattoo salon two years ago. Sex on a stick or in his case on a motorcycle. He was a client so a little flirting was all she could do, right? For once with the shoves from her friends/family, she might just give it a go for a one time date.
The client was more than attracted. The artist-client thing wasn't keeping them apart. Something was. He had some real problems to deal with if he was going to get the girl. And he planned to. Meeting her special brother only added to the appeal despite what some might think. It wasn't her family that was the problem.
A touching story with heat, heart, and wonderful characters that are either lovable or you hate.them. The couple faces a problem that seems insurmountable. I absolutely love her special-needs brother and how good she is with him. That the man deals so well makes the decision even more difficult.
I recommend this one with five stars
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
The client was more than attracted. The artist-client thing wasn't keeping them apart. Something was. He had some real problems to deal with if he was going to get the girl. And he planned to. Meeting her special brother only added to the appeal despite what some might think. It wasn't her family that was the problem.
A touching story with heat, heart, and wonderful characters that are either lovable or you hate.them. The couple faces a problem that seems insurmountable. I absolutely love her special-needs brother and how good she is with him. That the man deals so well makes the decision even more difficult.
I recommend this one with five stars
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
September 18, 2019
Intense, captivating, consuming, emotional journey. Tomi finds herself raising her brother Levi who special needs yet he is the light of her life. They have a found a routine that works for both of them but everything is being threatened. Scott Enterprises is taking over her property and she is going to lose her business, Hope & Faith Ink, something she built with her parents before they died. Losing this business will be like losing them all over again while adding chaos to Levi's life since coming to the shop is part of his daily routine. Xander found an amazing tattoo artist in Tomi and he finds himself drawn to this incredible woman's strength and perseverance. He is struggling with his own destiny as he works to live up to his father's expectations. As he works to build a relationship with Tomi, he withholds some significant facts about himself. When the truth comes out, can he convince Tomi to forgive him? Or did he make a huge tactical error? These cast of characters captured my heart as they had to face the harsh realities of life and find a new path while staying true to themselves. I voluntarily read an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
September 21, 2019
If you need to kick back for a couple of hours and need an easy happy ever after read, this is the book.
Tomi and her younger brother are living their life as best they can after the tragic death of their parents and sister, but when a large development threatens to take away what they feel is their last piece of their family, things become interesting.
With all that is happening Tomi is struggling with her growing feeling towards a repeat client at her tattoo studio, but there is more to this guy then Tomi knows.
I loved how this book touched on many life issues families are dealing with every day; dealing with special needs children and protecting them from ignorant people. If I was going to bring anything up, I did struggle connecting with Tomi, I think what was needed was more character building of her so I could understand her more. I just can't image that just after only 12 months after loosing her parents and sister that she seems to have her head screwed on pretty damn well.
But in saying that I still really enjoyed this book and I loved Levi's character, he brought so much to this story.
Tomi and her younger brother are living their life as best they can after the tragic death of their parents and sister, but when a large development threatens to take away what they feel is their last piece of their family, things become interesting.
With all that is happening Tomi is struggling with her growing feeling towards a repeat client at her tattoo studio, but there is more to this guy then Tomi knows.
I loved how this book touched on many life issues families are dealing with every day; dealing with special needs children and protecting them from ignorant people. If I was going to bring anything up, I did struggle connecting with Tomi, I think what was needed was more character building of her so I could understand her more. I just can't image that just after only 12 months after loosing her parents and sister that she seems to have her head screwed on pretty damn well.
But in saying that I still really enjoyed this book and I loved Levi's character, he brought so much to this story.
September 25, 2019
Tomi (Tomika) is the sister and carer for her brother Levi, runs her own business which is threatened with closure due to developers having purchased the property. No negotiations, Alex Scott and the company want her out so they can knock down the building he is her enemy not to be seen only communicates via email. Enter Xander a customer of a couple of years who wants nothing more than to become part of Tomi and Levi’s lives.
What Tomi doesn’t know is that Xander is leading a double life and when the truth comes out will it destroy the relationship between them all (not going to tell you any more so it doesn’t spoil the outcome). It was wonderful to read a book that has so beautifully handled a story line involving a character with special needs and how the family and their lives are impacted on a day to day basis.
Another well written book from Ms Osborn who is not afraid to have her characters show their vulnerability, add in a bit of intrigue, humour a few tears and you’ll have a great read. Looking forward to reading more books in this new series.
What Tomi doesn’t know is that Xander is leading a double life and when the truth comes out will it destroy the relationship between them all (not going to tell you any more so it doesn’t spoil the outcome). It was wonderful to read a book that has so beautifully handled a story line involving a character with special needs and how the family and their lives are impacted on a day to day basis.
Another well written book from Ms Osborn who is not afraid to have her characters show their vulnerability, add in a bit of intrigue, humour a few tears and you’ll have a great read. Looking forward to reading more books in this new series.
September 2, 2019
Let me just start out by saying this needs to have sequels with it !! Each tattoo artist needs a book so we get to see everyone and what there lives are currently up too !! These characters will pull you this way and that !! The unknown is dramatically written fantastically!!
Tomi and her brother Levi are handed a very hard tragedy to deal with and Tomi does it with class and LOVE ! But when Alex asshole Scott tries to take everything away from her, she does not go down without a fight and boy does she have a fight with a sexy fit hot as hell tattooed Jean Suit wearing Xander !!
Scott aka Xander doesn’t know what his father handed h8m when the told him to take over the Mega Site and Tomi is stuck right in the middle of it..
Can Xander show Tomi what her is like outside the office before she finds out who he is or will it ALL blow up in his face ??
THIS BOOK WIL BE GRIPPING AT YOUR HEART !! Loved it !!
Tomi and her brother Levi are handed a very hard tragedy to deal with and Tomi does it with class and LOVE ! But when Alex asshole Scott tries to take everything away from her, she does not go down without a fight and boy does she have a fight with a sexy fit hot as hell tattooed Jean Suit wearing Xander !!
Scott aka Xander doesn’t know what his father handed h8m when the told him to take over the Mega Site and Tomi is stuck right in the middle of it..
Can Xander show Tomi what her is like outside the office before she finds out who he is or will it ALL blow up in his face ??
THIS BOOK WIL BE GRIPPING AT YOUR HEART !! Loved it !!
September 15, 2019
Talk about breaking barriers and taming the beast. She had no idea who he was but he got to her like no one else. Not only did he really see her, the one she hid, but he accepted and loved her brother. He tried to keep it professional but there was something about her that called out and soothed him in a way he never knew could be done. There was one problem, he was the man she hated, the one that would end all of her dreams, but she didn't know it. This author does an amazing job connecting the reader to her characters. You can't help but feel the chemistry and the soul searing love they have for each other. The conflict, the pain, the pull. This author doesn't make it about the sex it's about the story and it's a strong one that will grab you from page one. It's not insta love it's a strong love that will survive the obstacles of life. It's all about family. The one you're born to and the ones you fit into, without a doubt, without exception, it just is.
September 19, 2019
Without Exception is exceptional! I was drawn to the MC Tomi & Xander. The chemistry between these two was off the charts. Their story is fast paced and full of lies, secrets and betrayal. My heart hurt for Tomi. Her livelihood was being threaten and unbeknownst to her, Xander has a part in it.
Tomi has already been through so much. She lost her parents and her younger sister in a tragic accident. She is the sole caregiver for her younger brother, Levi, who is on the spectrum. Her pride and joy, Hope & Faith Ink, is in jeopardy. How much can one person handle?
Xander, also know know as Alex-asshole-Scott, has been a client of Tomi’s for 2 years. He’s in deep now. I loved how he wants what is best for both Tomi and Levi. I could feel Xander’s guilt. Is his betrayal going to be to much for Tomi to handle? Will they be able to put their differences aside?
I throughly enjoyed this book! It was beautifully written and perfectly executed! I highly recommend it!
Tomi has already been through so much. She lost her parents and her younger sister in a tragic accident. She is the sole caregiver for her younger brother, Levi, who is on the spectrum. Her pride and joy, Hope & Faith Ink, is in jeopardy. How much can one person handle?
Xander, also know know as Alex-asshole-Scott, has been a client of Tomi’s for 2 years. He’s in deep now. I loved how he wants what is best for both Tomi and Levi. I could feel Xander’s guilt. Is his betrayal going to be to much for Tomi to handle? Will they be able to put their differences aside?
I throughly enjoyed this book! It was beautifully written and perfectly executed! I highly recommend it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews