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Taking Chances #8

Love Will Save Your Soul

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She never saw him coming.

After walking away from an abusive relationship, Sophia was determined to create a new, better, life for herself. Swearing off guys seemed like an easy task, until she started working at Life in Ink…

Adrian is done with relationships. When his fiance left him for the “picture perfect” life, he decided then and there, he wasn’t going to give his heart to another woman. That is, until the tattoo shop he works at hires a receptionist.

Sophia and Adrian can’t deny the chemistry between them. But when a threat from Sophia’s past comes knocking on her door, everything begins falling apart.

Can two people push through their insecurities and let love save them from themselves?

184 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 20, 2019

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About the author

Katrina Marie

66 books727 followers
Katrina Marie lives in the Dallas area with her husband, two children, and fur baby. She is a lover of all things geeky and Gryffindor for life. When she’s not writing you can find her at her children’s sporting events, or curled up reading a book.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Katrina Marie.
Author 66 books727 followers
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October 27, 2021
Love Will Save Your Soul is Free until 7/24/20



Slivers of moonlight filter in through the blinds, illuminating the otherwise dark room. Dawson lies next to me, snoring softly. This is something I would have found adorable when we started dating. Now, it’s annoying that he can sleep peacefully. He should be the one wide awake, in turmoil over the words he’s thrown at me.
Instead, I’m the one curled up into a ball wondering how the hell I got here. It’s not how I envisioned our lives together. When we first moved in together, everything was perfect. We spent time together every night, and I knew he adored me. Now… now, I’m always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Never knowing when something I say is going to set him off. Every day is like walking on eggshells, hoping he’ll be in a good mood.
If my parents knew how badly my relationship has gone downhill, they would be appalled. Dawson has never laid a hand on me, but the verbal slams pain me almost as much. A shard of glass, glinting in the corner, catches my eye. It’s a small reminder of pissing him off earlier this evening because I didn’t fold his laundry the way he likes it. The vase hitting the wall before shattering will forever be etched into my mind. I should be used to it by now, the sound of whatever he can get his hands on hitting the wall. But it’s not something I should ever have to be accustomed to.
Everyone has an opinion about how they would react if they found themselves in this sort of situation. They will never truly know the fear that courses through you at the thought of leaving. The lengths a person like Dawson will go through in order to keep you by their side. The I’m sorry’s, and empty promises. All of it grooming you, cultivating you to do what you’re supposed to do, and stand beside them. Even when the very sight of them makes you sick to your stomach.
But no more. At least, not for me. I’m done being the person he takes out his anger on. No longer willing to be the one he uses to make himself feel big. I am better than this. I deserve more than this.
With one last glance at Dawson’s sleeping form, I gently climb out of bed. The bags I packed hours before he got home await me in the coat closet. Most would call me a coward for taking off in the middle of the night, but it’s the only time I can ensure that I’m going to get out with my dignity intact.
As quietly as possible, I pull my bags out of the closet and my keys off the key hook. Opening the door, I breathe in the cold winter night. My first taste of freedom in over six months. A voice from down the hallway stops me in my tracks.
“Going somewhere?” Dawson asks, voice scratchy with sleep.
Part of me wants to turn around and put my bags up. To beg for forgiveness and hope this isn’t the time he’ll begin using his fists. But I push that reaction down, determined to take my stand and be the strong person I know is hidden deep inside me. “Yeah,” my voice comes out in a squeak. Clearing my throat, I try again. “Yes, I’m going to my parents.”
“No, you aren’t,” he takes a step toward me, hands curled into fists at his side.
The urge to retreat courses through me. Dropping my bags and running for my car would be the easiest option. But… it could also end with me stumbling over something and hurting myself in the process. If I don’t stand up for myself now, there’s no guarantee I won’t come back to him later. It’s a vicious cycle, and one that I’m sick of. Straightening my back, I broaden my shoulders. I refuse to let him intimidate me the way he has. Refuse to let him think he can control me for one second longer. “Yes, I am,” I lift my chin higher. “I’m done, Dawson. This isn’t working for me. The yelling, throwing things at me… I deserve more than that. You aren’t the man I thought you were when we first moved in together. I won’t be your prisoner anymore.”
Tightening my grip on my keys in one hand, and my bag in the other, I step outside the door. This place is no longer my home. “Goodbye, Dawson.”
“You can’t just leave me, Sophie.” His voice is pained. “I’ll do better. Go to counseling. Anything.” The sad thing is, I’ve heard all this before. Things will be great between us for a week or two, then it’s back to the same old story.
“Sorry,” I close the door behind me and walk briskly to my car. Fear makes me want to look back, but I don’t. He’s not going to follow me. Not yet, anyway. I’m sure he’ll show up at my parents’ house with some sob story. But by then, it’ll be too late. They’ll know the truth of how my life has been. There’s no way Mom, or Dad, will let him come anywhere near me.
Unlocking my car door, I throw my bags into the passenger seat before sliding behind the wheel. A glance toward the apartment shows Dawson’s shadowed outline in the doorway. Without taking my eyes off the door, I start the car and put it in gear. It’s time to rebuild myself and put everything Dawson tore down back together.
Profile Image for Elsie.
562 reviews
June 5, 2019
Love will save your soul is my second favorite book in this series.

Adrian and Sophie both were hurt in past relationships, they didn't want to be in a relationship anymore but their attraction was strong. Once they stopped fighting it a beautiful relationship and bond was formed. I really enjoyed their story, drama free and you get a glimpse of some of the awesome characters on the series.
Profile Image for Joleen Grace.
820 reviews
August 20, 2019
Adrian and Sophia are both coming out of bad relationships. When they start working together they ignore their connection for a while. Once they explore it, it blossoms. His ex wanted him to change an hers was verbally abusive. Add in a funny ginger brother, a tattoo shop and a stalking ex and you get a fun read.
Profile Image for ☆☆Hannah☆☆.
3,176 reviews41 followers
March 25, 2020
This was an enjoyable read. Although, I'm not surprised I've enjoyed the rest. In this one we have Sophia and Adrian. Sophia is back home trying to get over an abusive relationship. She ends up getting a job at the tattoo shop. This is where she meets Adrian. They begin to spend time together and of course they fall in love.
Profile Image for Brandy Roberts.
2,082 reviews60 followers
June 20, 2019
Love will save your soul was a good story it would be the second book that I've read by Katrina Marie and I'm excited to read more by her . This book really had no drama so if you are looking for a drama free book then this is one you need to get . The characters are equally likable they had alot of chemistry the only thing that drew me away a tad was the little bit of heat I wish there was more because those two could have really steamed up the story but that is just my preference overall this is a good book you don't want to miss out on can't wait to read more by the author and I hope this isn't the last we see of the couple .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
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hero=9 heroine=9 secondary characters=9
Chemistry=10 steam=2 romance=6
humor=4 darkness level=3 action=3 mystery=3
enjoyment= 9 angst=1 story line=8 Story ending=9
character development=10 pacing= 10
cover=10 Blurb =10 Stars = 4
Is this part of a series =
Can it be read as a standalone =
would I recommend this book=yes
would I re read this book= yes
would I read future books by this author= yes
Profile Image for Aisling Cooper.
183 reviews25 followers
May 22, 2019
Sophia has just walked away from an abusive relationship and is determined to make a better life for herself. After being in an abusive relationship Sophia has decided that she is better off alone and single and there is no such thing as an happy ever after. That is until she meets Adrian after taking a job at Life in Ink.

Adrian has had his heartbroken in the past when his fiancé decided to leave him for a better life. Because of this Adrian has decided not to ever fall in love again and give his heart away so easily.

Both Sophia and Adrian are not able to deny they have chemistry with each other but they are both scared by the past. But when they decide to give their relationship a go the past comes back to haunt them both and they have to fight for each other to be together.

I have loved this series and don’t want it to end. I’m looking forward to reading Katrina Maries new books & hope that we still get to hear from some of the characters we’ve met in the last 8 books
Profile Image for Christine Woinich.
2,371 reviews18 followers
June 22, 2019
I enjoyed this story. Sophia should her inner strength when she got out of an abusive relationship and found her own independence. Adrian was gruff but a real sweetheart. Together, they found a way beyond their pasts. I loved their interactions with each other and their coworkers as well as Sophia's brother. The secondary characters did make the story fun. I recommend this book.

I received a copy of this story through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
Profile Image for poppy.
4,591 reviews27 followers
June 18, 2019
This was another great addition to the series I just loved Adrian and Sophie's story and once I started reading it I did not want to put it down. The chemistry between these two was really strong but both have baggage from their pasts. I enjoyed getting to know these two more it was a super read and I really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Nate.
20.3k reviews19 followers
June 29, 2019
I enjoyed Sophia & Adrian's story. Great characters. This was a bit of an emotional one for me. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book via booksprout.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.6k reviews163 followers
June 22, 2019
Katrina Marie is a relatively new to me author, well, not so new anymore since I've read the whole Taking Chances series now, but you know what I mean, and I've found that I really enjoy her sweet stories with realistic characters. In Love Will Save Your Soul, Sophia has finally gotten the courage to leave her boyfriend, Dawson, who is borderline abusive, well, he's emotionally abusive, but heading towards the physical, so she's taking shelter at her parents house. It's been rough going at first, as she's trying to figure out who she is, while looking for a job, and things look bleak. Fast forward some time, and she's working at a tattoo shop, with her confidence back up, not to mention a new look. Oh, and she has an attraction for Adrian, but he's been quite the douche to her. See, he got burned by his longtime girlfriend, and when he felt the same attraction to Sophia, he became a jerk to stay away from her. However, the chemistry they have, while being denied for a while, wouldn't stay dormant forever, and finally, they start to explore it. What they find is a strong connection, and maybe just maybe some healing from those past demons. There's also a hilarious cast of secondaries who either block them or help them move forward, but all kept me laughing hard. However, there's some drama to come with a twist or two that had me dropping a few f-bombs so how it all pans out is something that you'll have to one click the story to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].
2,313 reviews167 followers
June 17, 2019
I have been waiting for Sophia and Adrian’s story. You could feel there was something between them in the previous stories and I just wanted more. This did not disappoint, though I am sad that this series is over.

Sophia is starting over after leaving an abusive relationship. She needed to start over and when she lands a job at Life in Ink she finally is starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. She isn’t looking for a relationship, she isn’t looking to date but Adrian just worms his way into her life slowly. Adrian is also recovering from the ending of a serious relationship but there is something about Sophia that is drawing him towards her.

I loved reading about their relationship, I loved watching it form and grow. Their chemistry is undeniable. Adrian is instantly protective over Sophia, even before he learns about her past relationship. I loved that about him.

This story had some drama, it was sweet, it was hot, and it had it’s funny moments. It can be read as a standalone, but it is so much more enjoyable when you read the entire Taking Chances series and get to know some of the other characters.

This was the perfect story to end the series on, but like I mentioned previously I am so sad it is over and to say goodbye to all these characters.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
17.1k reviews208 followers
June 20, 2019
This is a great addition to this addictive series, and is finally Adrian and Sophia’s story. These two have book been damaged by their pasts, and are not looking for any relationship, but they have undeniable chemistry between them. Will these two be able to move forward together when the past comes back to haunt them? No spoilers; this is a definite must read! This is a well written sweet and entertaining story which had me hooked throughout, and I look forward to reading more from this gifted author, whose work I recommend for all.
Profile Image for Angie Harvey.
721 reviews5 followers
December 21, 2020
I am so excited to finally see Adrian and Sophia together! I loved seeing bits and pieces of them before, I was super curious as to when they'd get their turn. I especially loved these two because they took their time. They waited a while before finally giving in and giving each other a shot! For both of them, they really needed to find themselves again before they went looking for love.

I love Sophia so much! I think she is so super strong for what she did and I absolutely adore her family! She instantly clicked with the Life in Ink team too. I love how she really helped round out this team, especially with Corey. We get to see a little bit more of him and this and we can totally see his soft spot. And then we have Adrian, their pasts are very different, but I liked how they were looking for the same thing. He was full of surprises during this book and I just loved how excited he was about being with Sophia. He was almost dorky about it! It was all just super cute.

And of course we got thrown for a little loop Sophia's past and her overprotective family. It made for the perfect amount of interest for this story. I love when there is something like this thrown in, because it kind of knocks the "perfectness" from the story. No one wants a perfectly, perfect story, and this created the drama that it needed! Seeing the protective side of Sophia's parents and Jay was so endearing. Especially when they involved Adrian! Seeing him be the protective boyfriend was HOT and super adorable.

Thank you Katrina for this book! I think that it is the perfect addition to Taking Chances series and I couldn't have asked for more from these characters!
910 reviews9 followers
June 16, 2019
A clean romance.
The book started really well and held my attention for well beyond the first third of this novel. Nearing the halfway mark, the story, had lost a bit of momentum as the two main characters, Sophia and Adrian, both of whom severely traumatised by their respective previous heartaches , skirt around their feelings and attraction for one another. They both swore off relationships for the foreseeable future as a result. The story is set in a tattoo parlour where they both work and I must say, I learned a bit about inking, I previously knew nothing about. The characters were very charismatic and likeable, and the story plausible. The heat and attraction between Sophia and Adrian was well described and implied but the whole story is handled as a very clean romance, so is suitable for those who don't like their romance very 'descriptive'. There is an undertone of danger implied throughout the book from Dawson, Sophia's abusive ex-boyfriend. I feel that the story had lacked a certain punch that the underlying history could have given a good basis for. Nevertheless it is an easy read and merit a positive note and the book was quite carefully edited.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Britt Chaotic Creatives.
1,414 reviews95 followers
June 18, 2019
Oh holy sweet swoon! This book is adorable. Love Will Save Your Soul is one of those perfect escape reads. You know the ones with super swoony heroes, a sweet heroine with a loving family, and just a bit of drama to really pull you in? That’s what this book is. I read this so dang fast because I was entirely wrapped up in all things Sophia and Adrian.
Sophia is a sweetheart. After escaping an abusive ex she’s putting her life back together with the support of her family. I love that there wasn’t a rush with this, Sophia got herself back up on her own two feet before anything really progresses with Adrian. That’s not to say the sparks weren’t there the moment they met though. Adrian himself was getting over an awful ex too at the time and I truly adored that they had that time to move on before things got heated between them. That was so true to life it really made them more real. Once these two do get together though, hold onto your hearts because they are so darn sweet!
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
June 15, 2019
How can I count the reasons I loved this book. The fact that even though there's an instant attraction between these two but they take time before they even investigate more. The fact the characters have the strength to be rid of their circumstances and not repeat the past. This is a great read and these two and their friends will reach out to you in some way or another they just can't help it. Each story new and different from the last each with their story to tell. Whether it's to escape a bad relationship or just not settling for what you can get, they have a story to tell. There are so many reasons I keep coming back to this author and love her characters. Her stories are not about the sex but the passion, strength, resolve and depth which makes for good reading. Loved it
Profile Image for wendy Shelton(obsessedbybooks).
2,553 reviews25 followers
June 20, 2019
I loved this story, plus it has a tattoo artist who is sexy. Adrian loves his job, its his passion, his future, but he his fiancee wanted more and thought Adrian was just going through a phase, so now Adrian has sworn off women, if they cant accept him for who he is then he doesn't need them, but that was until he met Sophie. Sophie is starting over, moving back home, getting away from a abusive relationship, so dating isnt a priority but then again she had never met anyone like Adrian. Working together makes the attraction harder to resist but Adrian makes Sophie feel things shes never felt before, being safe is one of those, but when both of their past come back, can they be strong enough.
2,911 reviews9 followers
June 21, 2019
Sophia and Adrian have been dancing around each other and their attraction for the past few books. They were both hurt by their ex’s. His wanted him to be someone has was never going to be to please her parents. Sophia’s ex was controlling and abusive and she thinks now that her restraining order has expired he’s stalking her again. Her family including her little brother were a riot. It was great to catch up with the rest of the characters at Life in Ink.
Profile Image for Heather W.
4,025 reviews30 followers
June 21, 2019
A super sweet romance between two people who have both been hurt badly. The characters are wonderful with her family helping Sophia to heal from her past abusive relationship. Adrian tries so hard not to get involved with a woman again but finds true chemistry with Sophia. Will the past come between them or can they have a happily ever after?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
9,413 reviews114 followers
July 1, 2019
I've read several books written by Katrina Marie; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the chemistry between the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ashleigh.
3,411 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2019
A quick enjoyable read.
I felt that the author had the ability to convey some depth to the personalities of the characters bringing a greater sense of reality to her story.
The writing draws you in and keeps you interested until the end.
The chemistry between the H and h is great plus their attitudes and events going on make the story even richer.

I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon).
16.4k reviews193 followers
October 9, 2019
A captivating read from beginning to end! An exciting storyline that leaves you breathless wanting more! Sexy steam filled chemistry! Emotionally heartfelt, enjoyable and fun! One heck of a twisted, intense rollercoaster ride! An amazing must read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Cassie Ashford.
1,073 reviews8 followers
June 16, 2019
I loved the brief glimpses we got into the relationship of Sophia and Adrian. Adrian took me completely by surprise and I fell in love with him just as quickly as Sophia did.

My only wish is that it could have been longer I enjoyed it so much!
3,775 reviews27 followers
June 16, 2019
The book is a good romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. The story is an enjoyable clean romance read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,164 reviews
June 23, 2019
A lovely story about Adrian and Sophia. They have both had past struggles and issues. Can they overcome and find HEA? Enjoy!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tasha Talks Books Blog.
1,080 reviews32 followers
June 24, 2019
This story just captured my heart. The story of Adrian and Sophie is one like no other. The pain that one goes through but comes out ahead. This is totally a must read series! I have to go back and get caught up after reading this story!
Profile Image for Ariel Holy.
12 reviews1 follower
June 25, 2019
Wow. Definitely my favorite book of the series, and Sophia and Adrian are definitely my new favorite characters. I know I say that after every book in this series, but they keep getting better and better. There is so much more to these two and I absolutely loved reading about them.
Profile Image for Cindy.
171 reviews
July 13, 2019
5 Star Sweet Read! This story grabbed me and drew me in. Sophia and Adrian both deserve happiness after their past harmful relationships. Their friendship and eventual romantic relationship is so sweet and makes my heart so happy!
Profile Image for Mary Mccormack.
1,212 reviews
July 6, 2019
LOVED the characters in this story and love the personalities together if the two main characters. Really good read and a very interesting adventure.
Profile Image for Melanie Helms.
1,074 reviews35 followers
November 17, 2020
Ahhhh sad to see the Taking chances series come to end but im excited to see whats to come. ❤ Adrian and Sophie have been stewing for a while now. At least a few books so my excitement for them finally getting a book is Ahmazingggggg. Jay, sophie's lil brother had me cracking up but i also loved how protective he was and as he should be. 🙄 But Sophie changed and didnt let her past hold her back from life or love.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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