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Second Skin #3

Valentine's Day

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There's trouble in paradise.

All we had to do was make it through the weekend. It should've been a breeze. A tattoo convention in Cancún with Toni Valentine, the toughest and sexiest tattoo artist in the world? It was a dream come true.

It was my chance to show her how I'd grown. I came to work for her when I was just some kid from LA and she already had a spread in Maxim and a successful video stream, but over the past three years, we've gotten close. And I had plans for us to get even closer.

But now my plans have changed. Now I've got to prove myself in a different way—by saving her from one of Mexico's most brutal cartels.

I'd do anything for Toni, and that includes walking right into the belly of the beast. And I'm not coming back without her.

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 15, 2021

23 people are currently reading
201 people want to read

About the author

Ophelia Bell

142 books998 followers
Ophelia Bell is the author of the super steamy Sleeping Dragons series. Ophelia loves hot alpha heroes, especially if they’re dragons, but believes the world needs more alpha heroines, so has made it her mission to make that happen. Ophelia grew up on a rural farm in North Carolina and now lives in Los Angeles with her sexy tattooed alpha husband and five-and-a-half attention-whoring cats (one of them is exceptionally large and might actually be a dragon in disguise).

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5 stars
89 (54%)
4 stars
57 (34%)
3 stars
13 (7%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Cécile Smits .
1,489 reviews292 followers
June 9, 2022
Well hello,you delicious man! Where have you been hiding all this time?
I already knew the Santos men were wonderful specimens,but Sam is special!
So,getting his story as an ARC feels like a treat,and giving my honest opinion is easy….i loved it!

Sam has known for a long time that Toni was the woman for him.
In spite of the age difference,and even though she had Manny back then.
Now,after working with her for three years,he still feels the same,if not more.
They both had to deal with the loss of a loved one,he lost JJ and she Manny,and they needed time to heal.
But he’s there for her,for whatever she needs from him to ease the pain.
And lately he feels like she’s starting to see the man he’s become…..

Toni is still mourning Manny,but she’s glad she’s got Sam.
He understands,he listens,he’s….simply there for her.
But lately she’s starting to see he’s more,only she knows he’s too young for her.
Fighting the attraction is a constant battle,and it’s not just because of the age difference.
She feels she’d be betraying Manny’s memory by going there with Sam.
But at Mayan Mayhem in Cancun she caves….as long as it stays in Cancun!

The tattoo convention is a success,and Toni’s shop Tendrils is back on the map.
But secrets are about to be spilled,and people are about to get hurt.
When Toni is taken,Sam will do everything to get her back.
And when he finds her,he knows he’s going to have to hurt her with the truth about her past.
Is it going to cost him a future with her?
Will they make it out alive,even?

This was a rollercoaster ride,and i enjoyed every second of it!
Sam is wise beyond his years,and the patience he had,waiting for Toni,was so beautiful to see.
And Toni may have struggled with her loss,but Sam’s presence soothed her.
He gave her mind the peace it needed,and she knew she needed to hang onto him.
Together,they were one,they were perfect!
Profile Image for Tai Nelson-Barnes.
2,833 reviews75 followers
June 23, 2021
Oh man, Valentine's Day is a romance to be savored and rejoiced. I can't remember when I have read I have read a book where the h is older than the H and to be honest, I don't particularly like to read those types of books. BUT I barely recognized that in this book. Yes, it is mentioned many times that Toni is older than Sam, but it isn't a huge gap, so their life experiences are not huge.

Toni is so emotionally drained when this book starts that you can feel it coming through. She is still healing from losing her first love and has no idea how to deal. Toni is going to do everything she can now to get through the next weekend at a tattoo convention so that she can keep her business going. When she discovers that her apprentice has grown up.

Sam has been in love with Toni for what seems like forever. He is ready to finally show and tell her everything but is afraid it could ruin their friendship. But when Toni takes it out of his hands and starts a physical relationship with him, he is more than willing to take whatever she will give him.

When danger comes for the two of them, Toni will realize maybe life is too short to live in the past. And that Sam has always been there for her. This is a romance that they could have for their whole life, whatever the cost.

I am so obsessed with this series! I can NOT wait for the next one.
9,377 reviews140 followers
June 22, 2021
The third book in the series brings Sam and Toni's story. The author brings strong characters and an intriguing story line. She pulls you in with all the emotions and had me glued to the pages with all the danger and suspense as well as the romance. I loved watching them come together and enjoyed reading their story.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
November 4, 2021
Another awesome story in this great series,Second Skin, where each book gives us a look into the lives and secrets of the Santos brothers and their friends and family.
Each story introduces a new brother, and their significant other, or others!
The reader gets to enjoy the story of each brothers sexual preferences, and those he wants to spend the rest of his days with, all whilst entwined in the mystery of the family secrets.

I'm Really enjoying this story.
Profile Image for Karen.
1,511 reviews15 followers
June 22, 2021
He’s had a crush on her since he was fourteen, now he’s working with her, and she gave him the chance of apprenticing with her. His crush turned into more over the years. She just doesn’t know it yet. Sam is a talented tattoo artist and this time in Mexico at the tattoo convention in Cancun will get his work more recognized and his name associated with awards. Sam’s grown up in the three years he’s worked with Toni Valentine and it’s time for her to see him as more than the teen age boy that she took on as an apprentice.

She’s a talented woman that has done so much in her short career as a tattoo artist, but she’s well known and a star in the business. Toni Valentine also a woman that is still hurting from a huge loss of a love. She’s just going through the motions of life at this point. She’s also in danger and has no idea that she is, or why. When she finds herself in front of a notorious cartel leader in Mexico, her whole world will be turned even more upside down.

I enjoyed this story of Sam and Toni’s discovery of their HEA. Sam is not afraid to put himself out there and show Toni that he can make her happy and he’s also patient with her, and willing to wait for her to be ready to move one. When that time comes, whew, what a ride these two have. I love the characters and the story is action packed. The lives of Toni and her family are blown to bits when secrets are revealed, and Toni’s safety is in danger. I give this story a 5-star review and I am looking forward to reading Elle’s story. Her story looks to be just as hot as the others.
881 reviews10 followers
June 21, 2021
For me I felt that the author found her stride with this story more so than the beginning ones, or it could be that the story revolved around Toni and Sam and the other parts took second this time. Toni is still mourning Manny her lover who was killed in the first book protecting Celeste. His ghost and her continually bringing up the age difference with Sam were for me a bit much at times. We get it she’s the older woman and Sam’s the young suitor, we don’t need to have it brought to our attention all the time.

Sam may be young in age but what he lacks in that area he more than makes up for it with his kindness, chivalry, protective nature and let’s not forget loads of charm.

Toni and Sam are tattoo artist’s and what better place than at a tattoo convention to let loose and give into the building sexual heat. Watching the relationship grow and blossom between these two is both sweet and steamy.

The story has a bit of everything, tragedy, trust, betrayal, family secrets, new beginnings, ending of old ties, independence, inner strength, steam and new love. The pacing was good and I read this in one sitting. As stated above the only annoying moments was the constant presence of Manny’s ghost and Toni’s constant reference to Sam’s youth.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Joe Kendall.
746 reviews9 followers
June 20, 2021
This is an epic third book in the Second Skin series. I loved it.
Toni is fierce and Sam is adorable, in a manly hot as sin way. Two great characters who's lives entwine.
Toni is mourning her lost love who died in book one. Her life has ground to a halt except for her work. She is a kick ass tattooist with epic skills. Then along comes Sam, her apprentice. His charisma and heat is off the charts, but Toni only sees him as a kid.
Sam vows to win her heart and heal her pain.
Secrets get in the way and danger is never far.
When a trip to Cancun heats up and secrets come out can Sam protect Toni from dangers she knows nothing about.
An amazing story I loved from the first chapter. These are beautiful characters with great depth and detail flowing from the page.
I loved this book and highly recommend it, the series and author.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Bridgett Goodin.
73 reviews3 followers
June 20, 2021
Valentine’s Day was a page turner to the core with great elements in each chapter. This world introduces you to action, mystery, and suspense. What a gripping, captivating story about Sam and Toni that reads so realistically. I enjoyed the development of Toni and Sam’s relationship which kept my heart pounding non-stop. The world building is fantastic with wonderful characters. This is another deadly mafia romance between another unlikely pair. Sam and Toni’s story was a great page-turner with lots of twists and turns. Ophelia Bell knows how to tell a story and reel you in every step of the way! I loved everything about this book and I’m looking forward to reading more in the Second Skin series. I highly recommend this series once you start you won't be able to stop!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Vonn Jess.
757 reviews7 followers
June 10, 2022
4 1/2 stars.

This one is about Sam Santos and his decade long crush Toni Valentine.

After losing the love of her life, Toni can’t move on and so three years pass. A trip to the biggest tattoo convention in Cancun with her team is her first big event she’s going to, as her tattoo shop is losing money. When she and Sam, who is 8 years younger, travel and hang out together, truths and lies come out. What happens in Cancun, stays in Cancun, is what she says as they explore each other. But how long can Sam hold back before he confesses his love?

This book was hot, action packed and had lots of tattoos. Great book in this Second Skin series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jeanne Mead.
503 reviews4 followers
June 16, 2021
Toni is desperate to reclaim her life and career as a major talent in tattoo artistry after a tragedy took the love of her life 3 years ago.
The convention in Cancun is where she needs to be seen to make it happen.
Sam knows a life altering reason why she should steer clear but it's not his place to say.
Being in love with his mentor turned boss for most of his life, he is not going to leave her side.
Toni hasn't a clue about Sam but knows she feels safe and less anxious with him near.
When things go sideways and she is threatened, Sam risks it all to bring her back unharmed.
Will the plan work or are they both in over their heads?
Raw and heartwarming with every emotion in between - an unforgettable story!
I read and reviewed an advance copy of this book.
241 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2021
Sam is the youngest of the Santos brothers. As a teenager he had a crush on Toni Valentine well-renowned tattoo artist and this has blossomed into more now he has been working as her apprentice for the past three years. Along with Vic and Mako they were all headed to a tattoo convention in Cancun, where she hopes this will lead to her re-establishing her reputation as being the best. Toni is a about to turn 30 and Sam is determined to make the weekend special for her and hopes to win her heart. But there are secrets that lead to them being kidnapped and put in danger. This is a riveting read with brilliant characters who find their way through thick and thin to love and a future together. I could not put it down once I started it. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series.
928 reviews7 followers
June 9, 2021
As always, amazing characters. Sam and Toni are the couple of characters at the forefront of this amazing read. Sam has had it bad for Toni since forever. Sam finally worms his way past the walls that Toni erected around herself since she lost her boyfriend, Manny.
This book has so much going on that kept me engaged, but even though a lot is going on, this book flows nicely and is easy to follow the storyline. I cannot wait to read Elle's story, from everything I have read from Ophelia Bell it should be a fantastic read

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Leanne Bryson.
5,246 reviews23 followers
July 2, 2021
Sam has loved Toni Valentine most of his life and has finally decided to let her know, with no back-up plan. That is what I absolutely LOVED about Sam. He is kind, caring, all-in, passionate, and protective. Toni has been through so much in her life, the death of her lover, but is a successful taboo artist and trying to pull herself out of the dark. They head to a tattoo convention in Mexico, the chemistry is hot, the tension grows and steamy fun begins, Yes, there are twists turns, betrayal, family drama, and secrets come out. But in the end Sam and Toni have something real and lasting. Great read

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for reading.islife_.
307 reviews4 followers
August 5, 2021
Sam Santos you GEM!

Easy 5/5 for me really.

Lovey guy, he’s a bit eager and initially I thought Toni was just too happy to rely on him - not sure my mind has changed but he’s dedicated to his cause so you know… he gotta have what he gotta have.

So much family drama! You can cut it with a machete! Papa Flores has been a busy man! And I have no doubt there are many more revelations to come.

Oh and big nod to random shaped peens! (I’m so here for it) Sam is a kinky lil 💎 and boi I’m going to miss all the future kinks he comes up with.

I defo recommend, now to wait 5 days for books 4… how will I cope?!😫
Profile Image for DMCechak.
1,795 reviews25 followers
June 12, 2021
Ophelia Bell is an author that can provide meaningful relationships among some of the steamiest scenes I have ever read.

Sam and Toni’s story is a marathon of need on Sam’s part, and an eye-opening awareness on Toni’s. Both are part of an underworld without choosing to be so.

Valentine’s Day is book three in Bell’s Second Skin series, involving the artistry of the tattoo. I find myself at emotional polar opposites when reading Ophelia Bell. I am heart-beatingly happy in anticipation, and while reading…then emotionally broken that each story has ended.

But it is ALWAYS worth it!
Profile Image for Jet Boston.
28 reviews3 followers
June 15, 2021
As usual Ophelia brings a real page turner! I have loved this series and have found myself engrossed in the intricate web of the Santos/Flores families. The background story is entrancing and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The characters are so well thought out along with their detailed back stories. As usual Ophelia manages to build a complete and realistic world down to every detail. I won't give spoilers but I can say that the ending left me begging for more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for JoAnn.
246 reviews
June 25, 2021
Fantastic Series!! I absolutely love this series. I’ve fallen in love with all the main “good” characters in this series, and totally look forward to reading about their ongoing adventures in their precarious “world” setting of dangerous drug/arms lords. You can’t help but cheer Sam on in his pursuit of the affections of Toni. The exciting plot line for Valentine’s Day will keep you turning the pages to find out what will happen next!! I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
812 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2021
This is the third book in the series that has Sam and Toni s as the main characters. I enjoyed reading about Sam’s lifelong love of Toni. This fast paced story was full of danger, intrigue, love and friendship. It has a whole lot of steam as well. The world of tattooing was fascinating and I enjoyed learning a little more about it. I enjoyed reading the book and as I sit here, I can’t get their story out of my head. The author knows how to create a story that keeps you coming back for more. You will not be disappointed. You’ll loved it as much as I do.
10.9k reviews127 followers
July 5, 2021
I've read several books written by Ophellia Bell; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the third book in the Second Skins Series; it’s a stand-alone book. Sam has been working with Toni since he was fourteen, he’s always had a crush on her and now that they are in Mexico for a tattoo convention he thinks he will finally get the chance to show her how he feels until he has to save her from the cartel.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
2,720 reviews2 followers
January 16, 2022
She's had a very hard x 4 the last 3 yrs cause of Manny's death. Sam is willing 2 do anything in his power 2 keep her safe and when they all went on a trip 2 Cancun. She found things that she never expected 2 feel within herself and Sam. The least they expected at the end of their trip was it 2 go very sideways but he found a few ways 2 help with it all and being with her on her b-day is when alot will come 2 a head with their friendship, feelings, hopes and dreams 4 a future with them both and job. But will a future of dreaming b enough 2 keep them safe? Find out, read it asap.
Profile Image for Jennifer Lil'n  Dunski.
1,544 reviews15 followers
June 10, 2021
**Soft Trigger Warning**

I can't get enough of this series! Each new book is better than the last! And Toni & Sam's story is my favorite!
It's emotional elements makes the story that much more....more heart stopping, more swoon worthy, just more! And it helps that Toni is extremely sexy and badass! And Sam too!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,930 reviews8 followers
June 14, 2021
Absolutely loved this book! Sam and Toni are just awesome! This is such a well written story with amazing characters! Action, danger, intrigue, secrets, and just so many emotions! Each story in this series just gets better and better! I am on the edge of my seat waiting for more from all these great characters! Absolutely love this series!!! Very highly recommend!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
32 reviews
June 15, 2021
I must say that I'm not a fan of older women / younger men tropes....but holy shit I loved this book. Toni is the perfect sexy, badass female you need in your life. And Sam? Wooo. Mason is my favorite but Sam is a one close runner up! The tension, emotion, danger and storyline is top notch in this book. Another five star read from Ophelia. Seriously I haven't read a bad book from her yet. If you haven't started this series yet....GO DO IT NOW! I promise you won't be sorry at all.
Profile Image for Raina.
4,217 reviews34 followers
June 19, 2021
Third book in this intense series. Each book is so unique and the characters are so vibrant and dangerous. We continue to follow the Santos brothers. This time it is Sam. He’s no longer a teenager and wants to find a way to show the woman he loves that he is exactly what she needs. When business becomes more during a trip to Cancun things heat up and become deadly. More secrets are revealed but they will bring even more danger.
Profile Image for Angela.
3,605 reviews16 followers
June 19, 2021
The third story in the Second Skin series puts Sam and Toni's relationship into the spotlight. Younger than her by 7 years, Sam has always admired her talent, her sexiness and her success. But when she is put in danger, will he be able to show her that he is more than a match for her romantically? Will he be able to rescue her from the evil that surrounds her? Can he prove that age is only a number in the things that matter the most?
3,132 reviews17 followers
June 25, 2021
loved it !!! love this series !!! have been waiting for this one !!! love Sam and Toni... this is their story... Sam is all grown up but, does Toni see this ? Sam has been crushing on Toni forever... now's his chance...the convention...but, danger awaits... secrets come out... could not put it down !!! OMG !!! so good !!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Angie ~aka Reading Machine~.
3,746 reviews133 followers
June 26, 2021
Sam Santos has loved Toni Valentine for most of his life. Toni has no clue to how Sam feels about her. He's hoping that their trip to Cancun will change things. The biggest tattoo convention is Mayan Con and Toni is hoping to put Tendrils back on the map. But danger lurks in the light with Toni being kidnapped. Sam will do everything in his power to get Toni back safe and sound. Will Toni be rescued? Will Toni finally see Sam in a different light? Your answers await you in Valentine's Day.
Profile Image for Haz.
1,016 reviews8 followers
June 29, 2021
This is the third book in the series, this is Sam and toni story toni lost the love of life in book one manny and her heart is still recovering from that lost but Sam maddox younger brother has crushed on toni for years will Sam be able to put toni heart back together or is her heart unrepairable, like the first two this story was really good and enjoyable to read

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
16 reviews
July 1, 2021
This series of books just keeps getting better and better. Danger, suspense, love and friendships. I don’t know how Ophelia manages to do it, I was on the edge of my seat trying to finish the book all in one go, I couldn’t put it down, sorry, didn’t want to put it down. Can’t wait for the next one…who will it be???

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lenna  Wright.
3,437 reviews35 followers
Read
June 17, 2021
One pet peeve I have is younger men with older women in stories, movies & life. But I can over look that in this book since Toni is 7 & half years older not 15 plus. But I skipped about the aged parts so I’m not reminded of it and I can just think they’re around the same age. Plus had time around each other to know their secrets, fears and goals. This might be M/F but we also have the Ghost of Manny in Toni’s life ever after 3 years after he was murdered saving Celeste. Toni also doesn’t know the big secret until later on, who her father is. Sam knew because of the information Mason knows about the Flores family, he might have promised to keep it to himself but the Santo’s men don’t keep secrets involving their family or their loved ones.
I’m still on team Celeste so when she had a big shock at the end about Toni, I hope that she can get her father’s secrets out of him and not have any more surprises in the near future.
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