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Clipped Wings #2.5
Cracks in the Armor
Chris, a sexy tattoo artist, tries to win the heart of Sarah, a grad student with little interest in him, in this second e-short and follow-up to Helena Hunting’s gripping love story, Clipped Wings—“twisted, dark, incredibly erotic…a love story like no other” (USA TODAY bestselling author Alice Clayton).
Part owner of the Chicago tattoo shop Inked Armor, Chris Zelter is a talented artist who decorates skin with gorgeous designs. He might look the part of the typical jacked-up, inked-up bad-boy, but underneath is a fiercely loyal, complicated man. Kicked out at sixteen, Chris has had to fend for himself for the last twelve years, making his Inked Armor crew as much family as they are business partners. For him, it’s enough—until he meets Sarah Adamson.
A grad student waitressing at the local strip club, Sarah is used to propositions and crude comments. The job is a means to an end—finish her MBA, pay off the tuition loans, and get a good job. Then she won’t have to rely on anyone to take care of her. So when brawny, tatted up Chris begins hanging out at the club, she rebuffs his advances. At first. But Chris isn’t like her usual clientele: despite his hard exterior, he’s almost…sweet.
Sometimes, the people with the roughest edges have the biggest hearts.
Part owner of the Chicago tattoo shop Inked Armor, Chris Zelter is a talented artist who decorates skin with gorgeous designs. He might look the part of the typical jacked-up, inked-up bad-boy, but underneath is a fiercely loyal, complicated man. Kicked out at sixteen, Chris has had to fend for himself for the last twelve years, making his Inked Armor crew as much family as they are business partners. For him, it’s enough—until he meets Sarah Adamson.
A grad student waitressing at the local strip club, Sarah is used to propositions and crude comments. The job is a means to an end—finish her MBA, pay off the tuition loans, and get a good job. Then she won’t have to rely on anyone to take care of her. So when brawny, tatted up Chris begins hanging out at the club, she rebuffs his advances. At first. But Chris isn’t like her usual clientele: despite his hard exterior, he’s almost…sweet.
Sometimes, the people with the roughest edges have the biggest hearts.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2014
About the author
Helena Hunting
63 books24.1k followersHelena Hunting is the author of The USA Today and NYT bestselling PUCKED Series. She lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes everything from romantic sports comedy to new adult angst.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews
March 27, 2016
3 Stars
This novella may be a short and a quick read but I didn't expect it to be a bit heavy and angsty in such a good way. Chris and Sarah's story was emotionally driven and passionate. I loved how Chris took care of Sarah and how he made her feel wanted. I guess that's what Sarah needed most especially of what's going on in her life.
There were Tenley and Hayden moments here that made me miss them, which also made me feel excited to read the second book of the series, Inked Armour. All in all, Cracks in the Armor is a good and enjoyable novella with sensuous and steamy make out scenes. I didn't expect to swoon over this short read!
This novella may be a short and a quick read but I didn't expect it to be a bit heavy and angsty in such a good way. Chris and Sarah's story was emotionally driven and passionate. I loved how Chris took care of Sarah and how he made her feel wanted. I guess that's what Sarah needed most especially of what's going on in her life.
There were Tenley and Hayden moments here that made me miss them, which also made me feel excited to read the second book of the series, Inked Armour. All in all, Cracks in the Armor is a good and enjoyable novella with sensuous and steamy make out scenes. I didn't expect to swoon over this short read!
July 30, 2014
3 shortie stars
Cracks in the Armor is a quick short about Chris and Sarah, gearing us up for their full-length novel.
Chris is the good guy, who has a lot on his plate while trying to take his relationship with Sarah to the next level.
Sarah is a struggling student that strips to survive, who lets her hang ups get in the way.
Cracks in the Armor was the second shortie about Chris and Sarah, a teaser to be exact, draws you in enough to want more. This teaser takes place after the end of Inked Armour, told from both Chris and Sarah's POV. A sweet sexy addition to the Clipped Wings series, can't wait to get my hands on their story and hopefully the happily ever after.
ARC kindly provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
Cracks in the Armor is a quick short about Chris and Sarah, gearing us up for their full-length novel.
Chris is the good guy, who has a lot on his plate while trying to take his relationship with Sarah to the next level.
I just had a steady supply of crappy, followed by periods of mediocrity. Sarah was the best thing that had come my way in years, but she worked so much I didn't see her often.
Sarah is a struggling student that strips to survive, who lets her hang ups get in the way.
He was everything I wanted, but I was too scared to get close. If that happened, he'd let me down eventually--just like everyone else did.
Cracks in the Armor was the second shortie about Chris and Sarah, a teaser to be exact, draws you in enough to want more. This teaser takes place after the end of Inked Armour, told from both Chris and Sarah's POV. A sweet sexy addition to the Clipped Wings series, can't wait to get my hands on their story and hopefully the happily ever after.
ARC kindly provided by Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
December 5, 2015
Super short prequel to Chris and Sarah's story.
December 20, 2021
4 Stars
A nice novella looking into Sarah and Chris's relationship. Looking forward to reading more in their book now!
A nice novella looking into Sarah and Chris's relationship. Looking forward to reading more in their book now!
May 27, 2014
I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
and
But by the end, I was like...
Pros:
-Good Writing
-Left me wanting more
-Nice set up for next book
-Cool Characters
Cons:
-Painfully short (but it is a novella so...)
-Left me wanting more LOL
Great short read. I recommend it.
P.S. Sorry for all the Gifs, I couldn't help myself haha.
Chris is a tattoo artist at a local tattoo shop. Sarah is a college student trying to earn her MBA, while working as a waitress at a strip club. Chris is falling hard for Sarah, but is afraid of admitting his feelings to her. On the other hand, Sarah is too busy for her to really spend time with Chris . This is quite the hurdle in their relationship.
Okay so my rating is actually 3.5 stars. I liked that this novella shows both point of views, and what they actually want from another in their relationship, but what they're too afraid to say. It was short, sweet and sizzling in my opinion, and is the perfect lead-up to their own book in the series. I should also add that I didn't read the first two books in the series, but I wasn't too lost when it came to the characters. Although at first I was like...
and
But by the end, I was like...
Pros:
-Good Writing
-Left me wanting more
-Nice set up for next book
-Cool Characters
Cons:
-Painfully short (but it is a novella so...)
-Left me wanting more LOL
Great short read. I recommend it.
P.S. Sorry for all the Gifs, I couldn't help myself haha.
October 26, 2015
ARC Received on behalf of Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books from NetGalley.
As we move closer to Chris & Sarah's story we get another glimpse into their lives. Cracks in the Armor starts just after Ink Armor ends and while Hayden & Tenley appear to have worked through their issues; Chris and Sarah haven't even begun to deal with theirs.
This was a very short dual point of view novella that showcased what these two really want from one another, even though both appear to be far too scared to admit it out loud. We get a little more background into Chris and some insight into the personal struggles that Sarah is trying to overcome.
I wanted this to be a bit longer and not focused so much on the retelling of story of Tenley and Hayden. I think had their story not been so fresh in my mind that the refresher would have worked better, but by the time I started this after reading Between the Cracks, I was ready for more of just Chris and Sarah. Given that I read these books out of order, that could be to blame - so if you are new to this series, I highly recommend that you read in the correct order.
I am still even more intrigued as to where Helena Hunting is going to take their story.
As we move closer to Chris & Sarah's story we get another glimpse into their lives. Cracks in the Armor starts just after Ink Armor ends and while Hayden & Tenley appear to have worked through their issues; Chris and Sarah haven't even begun to deal with theirs.
This was a very short dual point of view novella that showcased what these two really want from one another, even though both appear to be far too scared to admit it out loud. We get a little more background into Chris and some insight into the personal struggles that Sarah is trying to overcome.
I wanted this to be a bit longer and not focused so much on the retelling of story of Tenley and Hayden. I think had their story not been so fresh in my mind that the refresher would have worked better, but by the time I started this after reading Between the Cracks, I was ready for more of just Chris and Sarah. Given that I read these books out of order, that could be to blame - so if you are new to this series, I highly recommend that you read in the correct order.
I am still even more intrigued as to where Helena Hunting is going to take their story.
April 14, 2022
Audible Review
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
Quick look into the beginning of Chris and Sarah.
Wow, it's been almost 6 years since I first read this novella, can't believe it's been that long! The Clipped Wings series is probably my favorite series from Helena, although it's pretty close to a tie with the Pucked series!
I think both Jason and Rose were great choices for these characters. Jason has the gruffness to his voice that worked well with how I picture Chris's character. And I really enjoyed Rose's performance of Sarah- she sounded age appropriate, which is I find isn't always the case with so many female narrators. My only "issue" with the narration- I didn't love her male voice, but that could just be me!
Here's my review from when I first read this story-
A quick, angsty look into the beginning of what I hope will be a happy relationship for Chris and Sarah. I loved seeing the vulnerability of Chris is this story- we didn't see that side of him in the previous books and novellas. But there was still the humor we'd expect from him as well.
Even though this was such a quick read I feel like we got a little deeper look into the friendship between Chris, Hayden, and Jamie- they are lucky to have each other.
And I really enjoyed the glimpse of Hayden and his quirks from a different point of view- it's nice to see him getting a handle on things, although part of what makes him so loveable are his quirks!
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
Quick look into the beginning of Chris and Sarah.
Wow, it's been almost 6 years since I first read this novella, can't believe it's been that long! The Clipped Wings series is probably my favorite series from Helena, although it's pretty close to a tie with the Pucked series!
I think both Jason and Rose were great choices for these characters. Jason has the gruffness to his voice that worked well with how I picture Chris's character. And I really enjoyed Rose's performance of Sarah- she sounded age appropriate, which is I find isn't always the case with so many female narrators. My only "issue" with the narration- I didn't love her male voice, but that could just be me!
Here's my review from when I first read this story-
A quick, angsty look into the beginning of what I hope will be a happy relationship for Chris and Sarah. I loved seeing the vulnerability of Chris is this story- we didn't see that side of him in the previous books and novellas. But there was still the humor we'd expect from him as well.
Even though this was such a quick read I feel like we got a little deeper look into the friendship between Chris, Hayden, and Jamie- they are lucky to have each other.
And I really enjoyed the glimpse of Hayden and his quirks from a different point of view- it's nice to see him getting a handle on things, although part of what makes him so loveable are his quirks!
September 2, 2016
Going into this novella, which takes place shortly after Inked Armor, but is a prequel to Chris and Sarah's full length novel, I was hoping we'd get more of a glimpse into their beginning. Their story was happening simultaneously with Hayden and Tenley's in Clipped Wings, and in order to get on board with their story, I wanted more insight into the whys. Why did Chris, a person with little relationship and commitment history, suddenly decide that Sarah was the one to pursue even after she turned him down countless times in Clipped Wings? And what was the final straw that got Sarah to say yes? And, despite this novella not doing much of that, I still was completely and utterly drawn into their stories. We did get some idea of why Sarah kept turning him down but ultimately said yes, but not much on Chris's end. Yet, the story did not feel like it was lacking. I still don't know much about what lead Chris there, but it is obvious how deep he already is based on the small details about what he does for her.
One of the things I like about Helen Hunting's writing is how intimate it is. Rather than creating drama and having contrived plot points that ultimately get swept under the rug in favor of a quick ending, Clipped Wings and Inked Armor both set up the drama early on, and spent the entire two books working through the emotional turmoil. Cracks in the Armor, though short, did the same sort of set up. The pasts are not as dark here, or at least not so far, but they are troubled and emotional, and the journey toward healing is sure to be a deep one if Helen's previous work is any indication.
Yet again, we are given two characters who have different backgrounds or reasons to be where they are, but their emotional states and struggles are similar. This novella gave me just enough to be on the edge of my seat, waiting for their full story!
One of the things I like about Helen Hunting's writing is how intimate it is. Rather than creating drama and having contrived plot points that ultimately get swept under the rug in favor of a quick ending, Clipped Wings and Inked Armor both set up the drama early on, and spent the entire two books working through the emotional turmoil. Cracks in the Armor, though short, did the same sort of set up. The pasts are not as dark here, or at least not so far, but they are troubled and emotional, and the journey toward healing is sure to be a deep one if Helen's previous work is any indication.
Yet again, we are given two characters who have different backgrounds or reasons to be where they are, but their emotional states and struggles are similar. This novella gave me just enough to be on the edge of my seat, waiting for their full story!
August 31, 2015
Nice short story/ set up.
Read
November 22, 2016Review to come!
July 27, 2015
Review coming soon!
May 31, 2015
4.5 cracked stars
A gratifying inside look at the hard edged man with a tender heart and the girl that puts on a guise to achieve her dreams.
Helena manages put package a lot in this very short novella. We get a bit of Hayden and Tenlay and even TK! A sort of added epilogue where they’ve put the past behind them, moved into their new house, made it a home and are happily mellowing each other out.
I was incredibly happy for them. But also forlorn for Chris. Because their happiness next to Chris’ life is a sad reminder for him that things have been mostly mediocre for years. Sarah being the one exception.
As we get to know a tad more about him, how sweet and thoughtful he is towards Sarah and loyal to his family even after years of estrangement, the more I want him to find happiness. He’s the kind of guy you don’t just want to get a HEA, but need him to get his own.
We also get to see how stressful and detestable it is for Sarah to continue waitressing in a strip club. But also how necessary it is for her to use the funds in order to escape the life she was born into.
Finally, the story exposes what they both want, which is the same thing: each other, in a more permanent way. But it also displays their lack of experience in a healthy relationship. Avoiding instead of communicating.
I can’t wait to read how Helena continues with Chris and Sarah’s character development in their very own full length novel.
NOTE: I strongly suggest you read this series in the correct sequence in order to fully get to know these amazing characters.
* I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review from Netgalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
For more of my reviews or those of my best book buds visit our blog.
A gratifying inside look at the hard edged man with a tender heart and the girl that puts on a guise to achieve her dreams.
Helena manages put package a lot in this very short novella. We get a bit of Hayden and Tenlay and even TK! A sort of added epilogue where they’ve put the past behind them, moved into their new house, made it a home and are happily mellowing each other out.
I was incredibly happy for them. But also forlorn for Chris. Because their happiness next to Chris’ life is a sad reminder for him that things have been mostly mediocre for years. Sarah being the one exception.
As we get to know a tad more about him, how sweet and thoughtful he is towards Sarah and loyal to his family even after years of estrangement, the more I want him to find happiness. He’s the kind of guy you don’t just want to get a HEA, but need him to get his own.
We also get to see how stressful and detestable it is for Sarah to continue waitressing in a strip club. But also how necessary it is for her to use the funds in order to escape the life she was born into.
Finally, the story exposes what they both want, which is the same thing: each other, in a more permanent way. But it also displays their lack of experience in a healthy relationship. Avoiding instead of communicating.
I can’t wait to read how Helena continues with Chris and Sarah’s character development in their very own full length novel.
NOTE: I strongly suggest you read this series in the correct sequence in order to fully get to know these amazing characters.
* I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review from Netgalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
For more of my reviews or those of my best book buds visit our blog.
July 17, 2014
I've really enjoyed reading this series but as much as I've loved Hayden and Tenley I've also become quite attached to the side characters so I was really excited to find out that Helena Hunting had written a short story about Chris and Sarah. We've seen their relationship starting to develop in the previous books but I was looking forward to getting to know them both better through this story.
Although I liked Cracks in the Armour I have to admit I was a little disappointed that so much of the focus was still on Hayden and Tenley. The first half of this short story (which is only around 60 pages long) is told from Chris's point of view but rather than focusing on his thoughts and feelings about Sarah he takes us on a guided tour of Hayden and Tenley's new house and talks about how the two of them are getting on now they're living together. Yes, it was nice to have a bit of an update on them but to be honest we didn't learn anything particularly new or exciting about them and I didn't pick up this story expecting an extended epilogue of Inked Armour.
We do get to learn a little more about Chris's background but not in as much detail as I was hoping for. When the point of view switches to Sarah the focus does move away from Hayden and Tenley which I appreciated but we don't get to see Sarah and Chris's HEA which was disappointing. This story actually reads more like a prequel so I can only assume that Helena Hunting is planning on writing a full length novel about Chris and Sarah. I have no confirmation of that at the moment though so I can't help feeling a little cheated. I hate to say it but I think you can easily skip this story and I'm not convinced it's worth paying for. I received this for free from the publisher for review but I'd have been very disappointed if I'd paid for it. If the author does decide to write a novel about Chris and Sarah then I'll probably read it but I'm beginning to think that I'm done with this world now and I'm not convinced there is much story left to tell.
Although I liked Cracks in the Armour I have to admit I was a little disappointed that so much of the focus was still on Hayden and Tenley. The first half of this short story (which is only around 60 pages long) is told from Chris's point of view but rather than focusing on his thoughts and feelings about Sarah he takes us on a guided tour of Hayden and Tenley's new house and talks about how the two of them are getting on now they're living together. Yes, it was nice to have a bit of an update on them but to be honest we didn't learn anything particularly new or exciting about them and I didn't pick up this story expecting an extended epilogue of Inked Armour.
We do get to learn a little more about Chris's background but not in as much detail as I was hoping for. When the point of view switches to Sarah the focus does move away from Hayden and Tenley which I appreciated but we don't get to see Sarah and Chris's HEA which was disappointing. This story actually reads more like a prequel so I can only assume that Helena Hunting is planning on writing a full length novel about Chris and Sarah. I have no confirmation of that at the moment though so I can't help feeling a little cheated. I hate to say it but I think you can easily skip this story and I'm not convinced it's worth paying for. I received this for free from the publisher for review but I'd have been very disappointed if I'd paid for it. If the author does decide to write a novel about Chris and Sarah then I'll probably read it but I'm beginning to think that I'm done with this world now and I'm not convinced there is much story left to tell.
October 30, 2016
A quick, angsty look into the beginning of what I hope will be a happy relationship for Chris and Sarah. I loved seeing the vulnerability of Chris is this story- we didn't see that side of him in the previous books and novellas. But there was still the humor we'd expect from him as well.
Even though this was such a quick read I feel like we got a little deeper look into the friendship between Chris, Hayden, and Jamie- they are lucky to have each other.
And I really enjoyed the glimpse of Hayden and his quirks from a different point of view- it's nice to see him getting a handle on things, although part of what makes him so loveable are his quirks!
October 14, 2014
Chris Zelter is co-owner of the tattoo shop with Hayden in "Clipped Wings". It is great to see two side of Chris. He is badass with his friends and a total sweetheart with Sarah. He was persistent in the cultivate of Sarah's affections. It was alittle short and I would love to see more of Chris and Sarah and plus my favorite couple,Hayden and Tenley. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley for an honest review.
November 18, 2016
Very short, but fair explanation to get us to the next "chapters" in the story of Chris and Sarah.
August 2, 2021
A short interlude offering a brief insight after Inked Armour, following after Tenley and Hayden have already established a home together.
Chris
Sarah’s been called in on short notice—again. It’d been hit and miss with her lately, with more misses than hits. Other than some brief stop-ins at Inked Armor, the tattoo shop, they hadn’t seen much of her in the past two weeks.
After the trial in the previous book, the trial of Damen, Brett and Sienna, Sarah traded one strip club for another. She had tuition loans to pay and tips from The Sanctuary were too good for her to pass up. Unfortunately, she’s traded one bad job for another, dealing in ‘flesh’.
Readers get a glimpse into Chris and Sarah, as they navigate into Chris and Sarah’s story, Fractures in Ink…seeing a different side of Chris, a likeable, generous, caring side!
Chris
Sarah’s been called in on short notice—again. It’d been hit and miss with her lately, with more misses than hits. Other than some brief stop-ins at Inked Armor, the tattoo shop, they hadn’t seen much of her in the past two weeks.
After the trial in the previous book, the trial of Damen, Brett and Sienna, Sarah traded one strip club for another. She had tuition loans to pay and tips from The Sanctuary were too good for her to pass up. Unfortunately, she’s traded one bad job for another, dealing in ‘flesh’.
Readers get a glimpse into Chris and Sarah, as they navigate into Chris and Sarah’s story, Fractures in Ink…seeing a different side of Chris, a likeable, generous, caring side!
June 1, 2017
Cracks In The Armor es una novela corta dentro de la serie Clipped Wings de Helena Hunting.
Estas escenas extras no aportan demasiado a la historia pero si eres fan como yo de la pareja formada por Chris y Sarah, esta lectura seguro que te gusta, aunque reconozco que disfrutaria mas estos pequeños libros si la autora no se empeñara en meternos a Tenley y Hayden en cada escena que crea, me gustaria que se centrara mas en Sarah y Chris pero aun asi me quedo con los momentos tiernos entre ellos, cada vez son mas adorables.
3 Estrellas!
June 7, 2017
Leider ist es das erst Band gewesen, dass mir von der Inked Armor Reihe zwischen die Finger gekommen ist. Und leider konnte ich nicht viel damit anfangen. Einfach zu viele Personen, die ich nirgendwo zu ordnen konnte . Schade eigentlich eine schöne Zusatzstory zu den original Bänden.
January 22, 2024
Another short but sweet hour long mini glimpse into Chris’ story, a good set up and intro to his and Sarah’s own book which rounds out the series. I like that the mini-books are either free on audible plus or free to read online.
April 12, 2020
This was such a good novella that gives a lot more insight into Chris and Sarah’s minds about their relationship. I’m SO excited to read their book!!!
March 23, 2021
Short angst filled novella, nice set up for the next book. Looking forward to learning more about Chris and Sarah!
March 4, 2024
Another great bridging novella, to get into the heads of the characters before we get their gull story
May 17, 2017
Es bueno saber de Chris y Sarah
July 17, 2017
Cracks in the Armor was another little glimpse into Chris and Sarah's relationship - the perfect setup for Fractures in Ink, which focuses on them. Since it's dual POV (the entire series is) I got to see where they both stand. Seeing the insecurities and vulnerabilities was captivating. Getting updates on Hayden and Tenley, and Jamie and Lisa was an added treat!
Onto Fractures in Ink...
Onto Fractures in Ink...
December 15, 2015
I was so excited when I found out that Chris and Sarah would be getting their own story! I love the Clipped Wings series and as much as I loved Hayden and Tenley (love them!), I always had a soft spot for Chris. Even though I really liked Between the Cracks (the first Chris and Sarah novella), it was just too short. I felt like just as I was getting in the story, it was over. But, I understand that is how most novellas work. They are there basically as a tease to tide us over until the next book is released. Between the Cracks had that perfect ‘to be continued’ feel to it which made me even more excited to read Cracks in the Armor.
I was under the impression that this book would be a full-length story about Chris and Sarah. I was dying for it! I admit that I was a little bit bummed when I found out that this was another novella. But, it was a good one, especially considering how short it was. Helena Hunting sure has a gift for packing so much emotion into a short story. I love the chemistry between Chris and Sarah and the intensity of their feelings. There was a great story in here which provided a great set-up for the next story. At least, I hope there’s another story and I hope it’s a full-length one this time because Chris and Sarah have so much more to say.
It was nice seeing Hayden, Tenley and the rest of the gang again and I loved the beginning scenes when the guys are checking out Hayden’s new place. I miss that chemistry between all of these characters. While Cracks in the Armor was too short, it was good. It was like those mini version of your favorite chocolate. Good to curb your cravings but only leave you wanting more. I love Chris, he’s such a softie and I need more!
***
Read full review & more of my reviews at Mostly YA Book Obsessed
I was under the impression that this book would be a full-length story about Chris and Sarah. I was dying for it! I admit that I was a little bit bummed when I found out that this was another novella. But, it was a good one, especially considering how short it was. Helena Hunting sure has a gift for packing so much emotion into a short story. I love the chemistry between Chris and Sarah and the intensity of their feelings. There was a great story in here which provided a great set-up for the next story. At least, I hope there’s another story and I hope it’s a full-length one this time because Chris and Sarah have so much more to say.
It was nice seeing Hayden, Tenley and the rest of the gang again and I loved the beginning scenes when the guys are checking out Hayden’s new place. I miss that chemistry between all of these characters. While Cracks in the Armor was too short, it was good. It was like those mini version of your favorite chocolate. Good to curb your cravings but only leave you wanting more. I love Chris, he’s such a softie and I need more!
I headed to bed just after one in the morning, too tired to wait up for Sarah any longer. If I was lucky, I might get some middle-of-the-night company. It wasn’t about the booty call, although that was a bonus. It was just nice not to sleep alone all the time.
***
Read full review & more of my reviews at Mostly YA Book Obsessed
June 20, 2014
I really like these e-shorts from Helena Hunting, they do a great job at increasing my interest in the characters all while setting up the next full length novel.
As a secondary character in the first two books in the Clipped Wings series, we didn't get to see a lot of the real Chris. Half owner of the tattoo shop, Inked Armor, he was the guy who liked to party, pick up women and hang out at the local strip club. It really wasn't until the e-short Between the Cracks that we got to see a different side of Chris, a softer side. This part of Chris came out after meeting Sarah, a grad student working as a waitress at the strip club to earn money for her tuition.
Now in Cracks in the Armor we get a dual point of view glimpse into both the lives of Chris and Sarah as they struggle to keep their relationship going. Sarah continues to work at the strip club and attend school which leave little time for Chris. She is not happy with her job but has no other options. There are also hints that Chris is dealing with some family issues that I am pretty sure will play a major role in the next book in series.
I am really liking Chris and Sarah together. They are sweet and protective of each other. I can see where there is potential for conflict, love and and a really great full length novel. It also doesn't hurt that we get a little of more of the rest of the characters in the series that I feel in love with.
Just remember that this is an e-short so you aren't going to get a full story with a beginning, middle and end. It is meant to give you a little taste and pique your interest to what is to come in the next book. I highly suggest that you read this series in order simply because I love it and you wont want to miss any of its awesomeness.
As a secondary character in the first two books in the Clipped Wings series, we didn't get to see a lot of the real Chris. Half owner of the tattoo shop, Inked Armor, he was the guy who liked to party, pick up women and hang out at the local strip club. It really wasn't until the e-short Between the Cracks that we got to see a different side of Chris, a softer side. This part of Chris came out after meeting Sarah, a grad student working as a waitress at the strip club to earn money for her tuition.
Now in Cracks in the Armor we get a dual point of view glimpse into both the lives of Chris and Sarah as they struggle to keep their relationship going. Sarah continues to work at the strip club and attend school which leave little time for Chris. She is not happy with her job but has no other options. There are also hints that Chris is dealing with some family issues that I am pretty sure will play a major role in the next book in series.
I am really liking Chris and Sarah together. They are sweet and protective of each other. I can see where there is potential for conflict, love and and a really great full length novel. It also doesn't hurt that we get a little of more of the rest of the characters in the series that I feel in love with.
Just remember that this is an e-short so you aren't going to get a full story with a beginning, middle and end. It is meant to give you a little taste and pique your interest to what is to come in the next book. I highly suggest that you read this series in order simply because I love it and you wont want to miss any of its awesomeness.
June 23, 2014
CRACKS IN THE ARMOR focuses on Chris and Sarah once again. It begins right after Inked Armor where Tenley and Hayden have just resolved a lot of their issues. However, things are just beginning for Chris and Sarah.
As Sarah continues to work at The Dollhouse as a waitress, she knows that once her internship starts, she will be getting a lot less sleep than she already does. Chris, on the other hand, is trying to deal with the fact that he now has Sarah in his life. Since the story is so short, it doesn’t offer much in terms of plot. It feels more like a slice of life where we get perspectives on both characters.
When going into this book, I thought that the first free short, Between the Cracks with Sarah and Chris would be the end of the short novellas. But this one turned out to be just as short as well. I was expecting a full length and was kind of disappointed that we didn’t get that with this book.
However, when you take into consideration Hunting’s writing as well as her ability to evoke emotion with such little words, I still think that this novella is worth the read. Hunting has quickly become one of my must-read authors.
*ARC provided by publisher
January 1, 2015
This book is a short novella focusing on Chris and Sarah, as they begin their relationship. This short read is a teaser leading into Chris and Sarah’s own full-length novel. I am a fan of the clipped winged series and enjoyed reading this short story about Chris and Sarah.
Chris is a tattoo artist and is a co-owner of a tattoo shop Inked Armor. Chris and his friends worked together to create a business that would be able to support them and would give them an opportunity to do something that they loved. Chris was kicked out of his home at the age of sixteen and has been fending for himself since then. As he was helping to build the tattoo business with his friends, Chris helped turn the friendship into a relationship that felt like a family. Chris may look like a tough bad boy but he is sweet and loyal to those he considers family.
Sarah Adamson, is a grad student and working at a local strip club, the Dollhouse in order to make ends meet. She hates her job as well as her terrible bosses Xander and Sienna. She is anxiously waiting for the day when she has graduated and has her MBA. She is working hard to be independent so that she does not have to rely on anyone to take care of her.
Again, this is a short read about the beginning of Chris and Sarah.
ARC provided via Netgalley- by the publisher Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, author Helena Hunting- Thank you
Chris is a tattoo artist and is a co-owner of a tattoo shop Inked Armor. Chris and his friends worked together to create a business that would be able to support them and would give them an opportunity to do something that they loved. Chris was kicked out of his home at the age of sixteen and has been fending for himself since then. As he was helping to build the tattoo business with his friends, Chris helped turn the friendship into a relationship that felt like a family. Chris may look like a tough bad boy but he is sweet and loyal to those he considers family.
Sarah Adamson, is a grad student and working at a local strip club, the Dollhouse in order to make ends meet. She hates her job as well as her terrible bosses Xander and Sienna. She is anxiously waiting for the day when she has graduated and has her MBA. She is working hard to be independent so that she does not have to rely on anyone to take care of her.
Again, this is a short read about the beginning of Chris and Sarah.
ARC provided via Netgalley- by the publisher Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, author Helena Hunting- Thank you
July 9, 2014
I enjoyed this novella, it was a nice, quick read. I thought it was a good edition to the series. I love Chris and Sarah together so much and there was a sweet moment mixed with a nice amount of heat. I wish there would have been more progression in their relationship but they both seem to have issues opening up.
This story is told from both theirs POV’s. We learn a little about each of their pasts and get a good sense about how they feel about one another. Sarah recounting things about Chris makes you know just what a sweet and great guy he is. There's a nice update about Tenley and Hayden that I really enjoyed as well.
Chris and Sarah are such great characters but I was left wanting more. Maybe it's because I’m desperate for them to have their happily ever after. This felt like an nice introduction to their own story and I hope they get one! I would love that.
The Clipped Wings series is a favorite, I love it so much and can't wait to see where it goes next!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
This story is told from both theirs POV’s. We learn a little about each of their pasts and get a good sense about how they feel about one another. Sarah recounting things about Chris makes you know just what a sweet and great guy he is. There's a nice update about Tenley and Hayden that I really enjoyed as well.
Chris and Sarah are such great characters but I was left wanting more. Maybe it's because I’m desperate for them to have their happily ever after. This felt like an nice introduction to their own story and I hope they get one! I would love that.
The Clipped Wings series is a favorite, I love it so much and can't wait to see where it goes next!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
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