Blackballed from my job. Moved back to my hometown with my tail between my legs and family issues crushing my back. Slinging drinks in a dive bar. Yes, the past year has been hell. So when a man who’s temptation wrapped in golden skin and sin offers me one night of no-holds barred, dirty sex, I’m all in. I deserve it. But now those few unforgettable hours have me facing blackmail from my own … have me facing blackmail from my own father: He’ll pay for my mom’s medical bills, but only if I never again touch the man who has quickly become my obsession.
Because the man? My obsession?
He’s my stepbrother.
Each book in the Sweetest Taboo series is STANDALONE:
* Sin and Ink by Naima Simone
* Passion and Ink by Naima Simone
* The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton by Stacy Reid
more
I’m going to do my best to do justice to this story. We’ll start with the fact that I think the author has written her best book to date. For this reader, this book perfectly showcased how love and acceptance can break through walls that keep us from living our best lives.
I’ll start with my feelings about the heroine, Cypress. Walls built upon walls, she’s under the impression that she’s keeping herself safe by remaining distant from others. Her journey was at times painful to follow because I felt so much of myself within her. Those feelings of familial responsibility, inadequacy, and a determination to never allow yourself to be weak again that she possessed were absolutely gut-wrenching. Following along as Cypress begins to sort of unpack her baggage, allowing the hero to slip through her walls, left me with an absolute sense of rightness. Cypress doesn’t become strong because of Jude. Instead, her strength is bolstered by his quiet and unassuming support until she believes in it enough to be able to move forward with her life.
As for the hero, Jude. Oh man…again, that absolute feeling of connection! Being a caretaker for familial secrets. Wanting to hold everyone else together, no matter how badly it breaks you. Jude was all of that. From the very get-go he was all about making sure Cypress set the pace for her relationship. His maneuvering gave her room to come to terms with her past, and offered her a chance at stability when she was floundering. That he did all of that for her, while dealing with his own anxiety and family drama, showed that he is, simply stated, a stand-up guy. Jude is the catalyst that will bring his family back together. He’s personified the love and care they all have for one another in his compassion and willingness to be there for each of his family members. The absolute best of the bunch. No games. No gimmicks. He’s all heart and I am so glad that he is Cypress’.
As for the story line in this book, the author unpacks a lot. The issue of emotional damage done to children by their parents, particularly when divorce is involved, is addressed. The final scene between Cypress and her father absolutely slayed me. I sobbed, and sobbed, and then sobbed some more. I felt such relief for Cypress, knowing that she was working out a way to move past the negative emotions that had locked her down for over a decade. I read that passage over and over, wallowing in those difficult feelings until a sense of catharsis settled over me. I was, without a doubt, completely invested in their exchange. My heart broke for them and for their lost years, while still embracing the hope that they would be able to move forward with a more honest and respectful relationship.
If you read the first book, Sin and Ink, then you’ll be happy to know that we get a few scenes with Knox and Eden. I’ll warn you that, should you be a super emotional reader like myself, you’re going to want to have some tissues nearby. Our stoic mute, Knox, has apparently been saving up his words. He has a lot to say to Jude about family and what it means to build a life. I cried all the tears because their entire interaction during a tattoo scene was BEAUTIFUL and PERFECT!
The other issues addressed, those related to mental health and attempted suicide, and their subsequent impact on families, were handled delicately and with compassion. We all have the power to find acceptance and peace, both for ourselves and for others. The familial relationships within this book are testament to that. Most importantly, I appreciate that care was taken to emphasize people are neither the mistakes they’ve made in the past, nor doomed to a miserable existence because of mistakes their family members made.
Now on to the “taboo”. I know the step-brother thing has some folks’ knickers in a knot. Admittedly, I was a little hesitant when I heard this was the trope. So, if my words can offer any help in regards to your concerns, here’s my take on the matter. They’re not half-siblings. They’re not related in any way beyond a marriage between their parents that occurred when they were teens. They had limited interactions for a few years in the early stages of the marriage, and have not seen each other in a decade. Hope that helps anyone on the fence about this book.
I’ll end by saying that beyond being a beautiful portrayal of broken families, this book is still very much a super sexy romance. So, if that’s what you’re looking, know that the author definitely delivers! Cypress and Jude burned up my e-reader in all the best ways!
This romance is a gripping tale of one young woman’s life struggle and the temptation presented her by the man wrapped in golden skin and sin who turns out to be her stepbrother. Jude and Cypress have some seriously electrical chemistry going on throughout this romance as they struggle against a whole host of taboo and emotional issues. These strong, compelling characters are full of life and readers find themselves wanting to be a part of their story as they overcome adversity and reach for their happily ever after with a sinfully delicious relationship full of passion.
The story is fast paced and the suspense builds throughout as Cypress and Jude struggle with the obstacles that life keeps throwing their way and a family issues that include blackmail. Jude may be Cypress’s obsession but he has her wanting to sin in all kinds of ways in this red hot and passionate romance that has readers unable to put this story and has them wanting some of that deliciousness as well. The author has brought a difficult but real situation to life that is steamy, gritty and extremely satisfying.
How Naima Simone managed to completely captured me on the first page is amazing to me. I think I snapped at my hubby (just a little) because he tried to talk to me at one (of the SEVERAL) part when it got particularly (and deliciously) intense. From the instant and intense attraction Jude and Cypress feel towards each other, to the heart-wrenching emotional and familial baggage they’re each dealing with, to the slightly taboo nature of their relationship (step siblings FTW), to the considerate way that MULTIPLE heavy and sensitive topics were handled with such care and finesse, to the superb job the author did in creating dynamic, well fleshed out characters – Passion and Ink had everything I need to be utterly engrossed and entranced in a story. Naima Simone has swiftly become a must-read, on-click, preorder necessary author for me and Passion and Ink is a great example of why. She portrays characters and stories in a way that is articulately poetic, soulful, and sexier than all get out. The chemistry between Jude and Cypress sizzles on the page and in your imagination as you read their story. I felt the burden of their familial issues and rejoiced whole-heartedly when they each had the individual epiphanies necessary to break free of those bonds. I also really loved the update we got on Knox and Eden and I CAN NOT WAIT for Simon’s story. In fact, now there is a possibility for even more stories in this world (though I won’t say how because, #nospoilers duh!). Ugh! I never wanted the book to end and I can’t wait to devour whatever Naima Simone comes out with next! 5 out of 5 wine glasses.
3.75 stars—PASSION AND INK is the second instalment in Naima Simone’s contemporary, adult SWEETEST TABOO erotic romance series. This is twenty-seven year old,tattoo artist Jude Gordon, and twenty-six year old, waitress /accountant Cypress Winters. PASSION AND INK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Jude and Cypress) PASSION AND INK follows the forbidden or ‘taboo’ relationship between step-siblings twenty-seven year, tattoo artist Jude Gordon, and twenty – six year old, waitress / accountant Cypress Winters. Tattoo artist Jude Gordon struggles with his direction in life; an ex-girlfriend who won’t let go; and the secrets and memories he is must keep to himself. Meeting the beautiful waitress who calls herself Ro, is the perfect foil for a man who battles between in the here and now. But a family dinner reveals Jude’s one-night stand is none-other than the step-sister he hasn’t seen for close to ten years, a woman who now consumes his fantasies and dreams. Enter Cypress ‘Ro’ Winters-Keller, and the woman with whom Jude will fall in love. What ensues is the building but secret relationship between Cypress and Jude, and the potential fall-out as Cypress and Jude’s time together comes with an unexpected expiry date.
Cypress Winters left California amid a work place controversy, and her mother’s inability to thrive on her own. Returning to Chicago meant starting over but never did she think she would have to face the man who all but destroyed her family and her mother’s life. Jude Gordon struggles with memories of the past, a time long ago where a thirteen year old boy became the adult to his mother’s spiral out of control. A gifted tattoo artist, our hero finds himself in direct competition with his more ‘successful ‘ brother Knox.
The relationship between Jude and Cypress is a step-sibling, taboo romance. Cypress’ father makes our heroine an offer she is unable to refuse but in doing so, places her relationship with Jude towards a path with only heart break but no future. The $ex scenes are passionate, vibrant and intense.
The colorful secondary and supporting characters include Cypress’ broken mother Brenda Keller, her father Dan Keller, and Jude’s mother Katherine.We are reintroduced to Jude’s brother and fellow tattoo artist Knox Gordon (Sin and Ink #1), and his girlfriend Eden, as well as several fellow tattoo artists at Hard Knox Ink, and Jude’s ex-girlfriend Annalise.
The world building continues to focus on the forbidden, the relationships deemed taboo by society but relationships where two people find love and their happily ever after.
PASSION AND INK is a story of family, betrayal, loss and love. The premise is captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are broken, determined and lost.
A great follow up to Sin and Ink! Jude and Cypress have a great story of forbidden step brother/sister, hot and steamy and love! Another great getaway!
4.5stars
Another great book from this series. This time we also have a taboo between stepsiblings Jude and Cypress. Their story is unique, interesting and what I liked the most that it was not predictable. Both have very hard past and Cypress hard life accompanies her still to this day. The story is full of family drama and how secrets can ruin someone’s life. I loved both Cypress and especially Juda, he is so great character. I loved how he wanted to protect Cypress how he wasn’t afraid o reveal his emotions and that he inspired Cypress to stand for her self. They make a great power couple.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
Whoa! Talk about a roller coaster of emotions! This book has it all! The naughty tempting side, the alluring, the difficult subjects, full of emotions, and involving as well as evolving story line!! The emotions felt by both characters, the influence on them by outside characters, and the struggles of life are life like, realistic, and relatable! For such an easy to read book it is jammed packed with so much! Naima blew this one out of the water!!!
**4.5 Stars**
Passion and Ink is the second book in the Sweet Taboo series by Naima Simone. It is also the second book I have read by this author.
I read Sin and Ink before it released and I was blown the freak away, so when I saw Passion and Ink was available to request, there wasn’t a single doubt in my mind. I needed this book, and I am so freaking thrilled that I was given an arc to read.
Passion and Ink is Jude (Knox’s younger brother) and Cypress’s story.
If you all are unaware of who Cypress is, let me fill you in one…small…detail, Cypress is none other than the estranged daughter of Dan who also happens to be Jude, Knox, and Simon’s step dad.. If you’re a fan of the ‘I have the hots for my step sibling’ trope, you should definitely pick this one up.
Now to be completely honest, when I first started Passion and Ink I knew absolutely nothing about it. I didn’t know what Taboo talk this book entailed and I had no clue who the romance was going to be between. So to say I went into Passion and Ink completely blind is a huge understatement. And I feel this is a novel that everyone should go into blind. Don’t read the blurb and definitely don’t read spoilers. You should dive into this one knowing absolutely nothing about it, that way you can enjoy all the treasures that are hidden within the pages.
I laughed, I cried, and in some moments I seriously felt like raging out.
Some characters I loved dearly, while other characters caused me to have some severe levels of anxiety. But one thing I loved was the true message in this novel and that is Forgiveness is the key to happiness. This is my motto and has been my motto for the past ten years. I live these words so I felt a sort of kinship with Cypress and also with Jude. I know people say this all the time but this story legit touched my soul. I related to Jude and his need to protect everyone by keeping their secrets, no matter how much those secrets weigh him down. I felt so much emotion during a scene between Jude and his mom. Okay, let’s not kid ourselves, I bawled like a freaking baby.
I love when authors are able to write relatable characters. It’s awesome to live in a fantasy world while reading romance novels, but sometimes I need a dose of truth and raw honesty and Passion and Ink definitely gave me all the truth and realism I needed and wanted.
This novel is not only emotional, it’s also down right dirty and sexy as sin. I couldn’t get enough of Jude and Cypress’s……Chemistry. If it had the power to do so, my kindle would legit be ash with all the heat and pure sexiness between these pages. Jude is so freaking sexy!!!
Overall, Passion and Ink by Naima Simone was a great read. I highly recommend you not start this one at night, because from start to finish you won’t be able to put this book down. It’s all-consuming and will legit tear at all your heartstrings. I simply couldn’t get enough of not only the writing style, but also the raw emotion. this is such a great novel and one that I can easily recommend.
I believe this is my first Naima Simone book but most definitely not my last. I really enjoyed this second book in the Sweetest Taboo series and went back to purchase the first so I can get Knox’s story. It has everything I adore in a story: Hot, big dude? check; Hot, tattooed dude? check; a hot dude with a truly sensitive, savior complex side? Double Check. Is he kinda arrogant? Maybe, but there is way more than meets the eye with Jude and when he comes a knocking, panties everywhere start falling…but should Cypress jump into that fray? Jude shouldn’t be on her radar…she doesn’t believe in happily ever after, she doesn’t even believe in love…men can’t be trusted and all the men in her life have proven that to her over and over again. And then there is the fact that Jude is her step-brother…I mean…that has to be against some kind of law right? Well written and Jude is completely captivating and yes this book is steamy as heck.
More than steamy, Passion and Ink is downright HOT! Jude and Cypress, especially when they were Jay and Ro sizzled on the pages. Whoah!
These two are more than the sex, though. There’s genuine caring, respect, sympathy, understanding, support, and love.
Wonderful series. I need Simon’s story next and soon.
Explosive chemistry, broken souls and glorious redemption! With the next book in the Sweetest Taboo series, we step into the familiar Gordon family’s world. In the first book, we met hardened brother Knox, and the story continues now with Jude’s story. I recommend reading SIN AND INK first even though they are both stand alones just because you’ll get a greater appreciation of the family nuances if you do. Jude and Cypress were a great second book and I enjoyed their story a lot!
Cypress Winters has had just about as much of “life” as she can take. She lost the high paying job that she had worked hard for just for having the nerve to stand up for herself, her mom is sick and running up hospital bills left and right, and now she finds herself serving drinks to grabby jerks in a dive bar just to survive the best she can. She needs an outlet for this frustration or she’s going to explode!
Jude Gordon has a bit of his own pent up energy to burn, and when he sets eyes on Cypress, he can’t leave until he makes her his. One night of fun, that’s what they agree to. Only there’s just one little thing that neither of them realized … they are step-siblings and their parents are going to flip out!
This is book 2 in the Sweetest Taboo series and can absolutely be read as a stand alone although I recommend the first book as well just because it is a really good read. This one is about his brother Jude and Cypress. Jude and Cypress meet one night in a bar and have a one night stand, not realizing exactly who they are to each other until later as they had seen each other in over a decade. But this also leads to conflict not only for them but for their combined families. Along with the conflicts they are both already facing.
I really liked this one! They both have issues that they are trying to overcome while at the same time trying to just figure out what they need and want in their lives. Throwing in the family dynamics and having that hit close to home also drew me in and made me want to read more. The only thing that drew me back and made not give this one 5 stars is Cypress could have stayed in the town she was already in and found another position instead of completely uprooting herself and starting over. And I really don’t like Jude’s mom. She definitely get’s on my very last nerve! But I think that is part of the family dynamic and she is that way in order to explain why they are the way they are. On a whole though, it is definitely a great read!
WOW – sooo hot!!! Naima has hit this one out the ballpark! Jude – smoking hot artist/tattoo artist picks up the waitress from the bar by his studio for a smoking hot one-night stand only to discover at Sunday family dinner that she’s his step-sister, Cypress, newly returned to town. This book is 2 in the Sweetest Taboo series and can be read alone, however there’s a LOT of background family drama, so it is helpful to have read Sin and Ink first (believe me – you want to meet Knox – Jude’s older brother!!!) I felt there was a bit too much inner dialogue with the main characters that I found a bit distracting but Jude’s sensitive, sexy manliness and Cypress’s strong, kick ass personality more than made up for it.
Passion and Ink by Naima Simone is book Two in the Sweetest Taboo Series. This is the story of Cypress and Jude. I have read the previous book, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so. Cypress and Jude are both having family and career issues along with other bad baggage. They come together for one hot night of no promises and just need. But things are so easy because they feel more than just that night but a relationship would be somewhat taboo since they are step-brother/sisters. But together they pull each other together to make them whole. Exciting hot read!!!
Rated 4.5 Stars
I loved Passion and Ink. It’s the perfect blend of taboo, filthy and emotion. I thoroughly enjoyed Jude and Cypress’ journey and highly recommend it.
Copy provided by publisher through Net Galley
I loved this book! It’s not the typical forbidden romance between step siblings since Cypress and Jude never lived together but the angst and yearning are still strong. Cypress and Jude have a real connection and an incredible night of passion before they ever realize who the other is. That connection is fiery, hot and all consuming, Once they know about the step sibling connection they try to resist the chemistry that burns between them. The last thing this family needs is more scandal. Yet some things just can’t be denied.
Great characters, great writing, and an amazing story. Don’t miss this one.
Passion and Ink by Naima Simone is the second book in her Sweetest Taboo series and is a forbidden love story that captivated me. I loved the character and their crazy and intriguing drama-filled journey! I am quickly becoming a huge Naima Simone fan!
Cypress is back home, the last place she wants to be deciding what her next step will be when she meets a man who will give her a night to remember! What neither realize is that they already know each other! Now Cypress is dealing with family drama all while wanting the one man she cannot have.
Jude is carrying his own issues that weigh him down. One night with a beautiful woman is just what he needs. Their chemistry and connection is insane but fighting what they feel is nearly impossible. Both characters had so much to work through, including dealing with their families and trying to fight what they feel for each other! You will quickly become drawn into this story! Passion and Ink was a quick read with all the feels.
~ Liz
Passion and Ink by Naima Simone is the second book in her Sweetest Taboo series and is a forbidden love story that captivated me. I loved the character and their crazy and intriguing drama-filled journey! I am quickly becoming a huge Naima Simone fan!
Cypress is back home, the last place she wants to be deciding what her next step will be when she meets a man who will give her a night to remember! What neither realize is that they already know each other! Now Cypress is dealing with family drama all while wanting the one man she cannot have.
Jude is carrying his own issues that weigh him down. One night with a beautiful woman is just what he needs. Their chemistry and connection is insane but fighting what they feel is nearly impossible. Both characters had so much to work through, including dealing with their families and trying to fight what they feel for each other! You will quickly become drawn into this story! Passion and Ink was a quick read with all the feels.
Read and reviewed for Reviews From The Heart.
Sexy and steamy. Jude and Cypress have instant connection. The author takes us on a journey of two broken people finding love and healing in each other’s bodies and heart. She uses extremely vivid imagery to bring the scenes to brilliant clarity in the readers mind. The story is filled with angst as the characters work out their inner demons and try to find peace and redemption on the other side. They begin by solely seeking physical and temporary solace in each other’s arms but end with their future solidly tied together.
Passion & Ink by Naima Simone
Sweetest Taboo #2
Cypress and Jude meet one night in a bar – she is waiting tables and he is a client. Instant connection with one night of passion and no expectations only to meet again over a family dinner table. This is a somewhat predictable story and the continuation of a series that seems to do with the Gordon brothers finding their partners. I believe there is only Simon left but…am not sure where the series might go after Simon gets his story.
Anyway…the taboo thing has to do with their parents being married so a step-relationship between them. They both have issues to deal with including abandonment, secrets, self-worth, dysfunctional families, loss and more. The story was well written and definitely HOT but for I felt some of the issues were more mentioned than actually dealt with in depth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled-Scorched for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars