Holden by Kate Hawthorne (Ink and Ember book 1)

Kate Hawthorne opens the new Ink and Ember series with a hot and steamy romance... 

From the blurb:

Ink and Ember is open for business.

Holden Walker likes peace and quiet, which sometimes makes working at a boisterous tattoo shop, Ink and Ember, hard for him. Fellow tattoo artist Merrick does not know when to stop talking and inserting himself into other people’s business, which is how Holden ends up escorting Merrick’s younger brother Bryce Shannon to lunch on his first day in LA.

Attraction between the two men is immediate, and their first time together is incendiary. Without meaning to, Holden creates a safe space for Bryce to slow down, breathe, and explore some interests he’s never been brave enough to ask for before. In return, Bryce shows Holden that there’s nothing wrong with speaking up for the things you want in life.

Their relationship can only stay casual—and secret—for so long. It’s only a matter of time before Merrick finds out what his co-worker and brother have been doing behind closed doors. Will Holden and Bryce survive when their relationship comes to light, or will their future extinguish before it has a chance to ignite?

Holden is a low angst, high heat romance from Kate Hawthorne. A spin off of the successful Risk Aware series, the Ink and Ember books are short, spicy, and straight to the point (which in this case is bed).

Molly Otto's review:

This is a high heat low angst quick read from Kate. Holden & Bryce have an undeniable connection that neither is able to refuse and don't. This one of those stories where the heat definitely comes before the emotions and in this case it actually works. Their is no unnecessary drama that could have happened with Bryce being Holdens co workers little brother, they all just go with it. The fun kink sprinkled in was a fun addition to make the high heat not get to boring or overdone. 

Heather's review:

Hot, steamy and kinky - just what you want from the first book in a new Kate Hawthorne series!  I loved getting to know Holden & Bryce and seeing how their relationship impacted Holden's work relationships and Bryce's relationship with his brother.   All of the angst is external and the book is definitely a fun, quick read!  I can't wait for the next story in this series!