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44 Chapters #1
Skin
NETFLIX NEWS! The 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN series is being adapted into a steamy Netflix dramedy series called SEX/LIFE, coming soon!
"SKIN is a sophisticated, edgy, authentic, five-star read, and I HIGHLY recommend it." - L.J. Shen, USA Today Bestselling Author
Because BB Easton had so much fun writing her best-selling, award-winning memoir, 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN, she decided to give each of her four men his own steamy stand-alone. SKIN is Knight's book--a gritty, taboo,forbidden love story overflowing with '90s nostalgia, dark humor, and heart-wrenching teenage angst. It is based on a true story.
In 1997, Ronald “Knight” McKnight was the meanest, most misunderstood boy at Peach State High School ... perhaps on the entire planet. Knight hated everyone, except for me, BB—the perky, quirky punk chick with the locker next to his.
I, on the other hand, liked everybody … except for Knight. I was scared sh*tless of him, actually. All I wanted was to marry Prince Eric-lookalike and king of the Peach State High punk scene, Lance Hightower, and have a million of his babies.
Unfortunately for me, Knight was even better at getting his way than I was, and once he got under my skin, my life would never be the same.
*SKIN is Book 1 in the 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN spin-off series but can be read as a complete standalone. Go in with an open mind, and prepare to have it blown.
"SKIN is a sophisticated, edgy, authentic, five-star read, and I HIGHLY recommend it." - L.J. Shen, USA Today Bestselling Author
Because BB Easton had so much fun writing her best-selling, award-winning memoir, 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN, she decided to give each of her four men his own steamy stand-alone. SKIN is Knight's book--a gritty, taboo,forbidden love story overflowing with '90s nostalgia, dark humor, and heart-wrenching teenage angst. It is based on a true story.
In 1997, Ronald “Knight” McKnight was the meanest, most misunderstood boy at Peach State High School ... perhaps on the entire planet. Knight hated everyone, except for me, BB—the perky, quirky punk chick with the locker next to his.
I, on the other hand, liked everybody … except for Knight. I was scared sh*tless of him, actually. All I wanted was to marry Prince Eric-lookalike and king of the Peach State High punk scene, Lance Hightower, and have a million of his babies.
Unfortunately for me, Knight was even better at getting his way than I was, and once he got under my skin, my life would never be the same.
*SKIN is Book 1 in the 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN spin-off series but can be read as a complete standalone. Go in with an open mind, and prepare to have it blown.
404 pages, ebook
First published February 2, 2017
1167 people are currently reading
5501 people want to read
About the author
B.B. Easton
20 books5,119 followersBB Easton is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN, the hilarious, steamy, tell-all memoir that inspired the Netflix Original Series, SEX/LIFE. Within the first month, SEX/LIFE was viewed by 67 million households worldwide, making it the 3rd Most-Watched Netflix Original Series of all time.
BB was a stressed-out school psychologist and mother of two when the inspiration to write 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN struck. Through that process, she rediscovered her passion for writing, became dangerously sleep-deprived, and finally mustered enough courage to quit her job and become a full-time author.
BB went on to publish four more wickedly funny, shockingly steamy, and heartwarmingly autobiographical books in the 44 CHAPTERS series: SKIN, SPEED, STAR, and SUIT. Since then, she's been hard at work writing fictional stories that appeal to her love for us-against-the-world romance, including a dystopian trilogy (PRAYING FOR RAIN), a psychologist-client romantic comedy (GROUP THERAPY), and a dark mafia romance (DEVIL OF DUBLIN).
Visit www.artbyeaston.com for book news, events, merch, and more!
BB was a stressed-out school psychologist and mother of two when the inspiration to write 44 CHAPTERS ABOUT 4 MEN struck. Through that process, she rediscovered her passion for writing, became dangerously sleep-deprived, and finally mustered enough courage to quit her job and become a full-time author.
BB went on to publish four more wickedly funny, shockingly steamy, and heartwarmingly autobiographical books in the 44 CHAPTERS series: SKIN, SPEED, STAR, and SUIT. Since then, she's been hard at work writing fictional stories that appeal to her love for us-against-the-world romance, including a dystopian trilogy (PRAYING FOR RAIN), a psychologist-client romantic comedy (GROUP THERAPY), and a dark mafia romance (DEVIL OF DUBLIN).
Visit www.artbyeaston.com for book news, events, merch, and more!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 579 reviews
December 8, 2017
I've had eczema since I was about thirteen. I thought this book would give me some pointers on how to clear that up, but there was nothing about skin care in this whole book. Just a bunch of hotness.
If you don't have eczema, you'll probably love this book!
If you don't have eczema, you'll probably love this book!
April 8, 2018
I work 12-14 hours a day, seven days a week. NOTHING changes my work schedule. I work despite having pneumonia, bronchitis, in lieu of attending my children’s at-school extracurricular activities, I don’t even stop for sex (yes, I’ll bone while I work). To maintain this schedule, I must take a one-hour break once or twice a day. This break, at least for me, is crucial to my successes.
During this break, I read. It fuels my artistic ability, keeps me sharp, and prevents my brain from turning to mush.
My problem, and it’s huge, is this: I must be hooked in the first chapter (two at the most). The writer’s style and prose can be fabulous, but if he/she doesn’t interest me in EVERYTHING in a couple chapters, I can’t continue. As a result of this, I have read the first two or three chapters of thousands upon thousands of books.
In the last five years, I’ve had my go-to authors. I try others (a different author every day), but always seem to return to my go-to authors for my relief.
Vi Keeland. Penelope Ward. C.D. Reiss. LJ Shen. When I pick up one of their books, I know what I’m in for. I know it’ll allow me to escape, feel refreshed, and fuel me to get up and work another eight hours.
So, now that you know my schedule (and my concerns), I’ll tell my story.
An Amazon book recommendation is generally well-received. In fact, I almost always have a look at what they recommend. Infrequently, I read the entire book. A few chapters here, a few there.
Never (even if I am ‘hooked’) do I simply devour it.
Until now.
44 Chapters was recommended by Amazon. After a few sentences, I knew BB Easton had the ability to hook me. So, I got on Goodreads and read a few reviews, the questions on her author page, and the respective responses. Based on my findings, I decided to begin with SKIN, not 44 Chapters.
Remember, NOTHING changes my work schedule.
Nothing but SKIN.
I ditched my current project. I stopped eating. I stopped paying attention to my wife. I cared about nothing in my life except for BB and Knight.
These two characters became my life.
Easton magically inserted me into her novel of teenage despair, eating disorders, suicide, drug use, violence, sex, lust (and love), and there I remained.
Hell, I’ve been done with it for twelve hours, and I’m still living it.
What an accomplishment. To take a fifty-three-year-old man, thrust him into high school again, and capture his ENTIRE interest. This, my fellow readers, is not a simple task. We read to escape, and most of us want to escape to a place we can relate to (or at least imagine inserting ourselves into). I hated school. Loathed. Yeah, loathed is more like it. Detested.
SKIN made me love being there. Shit, I want to go back to fuckwater Kansas and get a chance at a re-do.
Easton’s writing style exhibits a poetic pace that simply sucks the reader in and doesn’t release them until the last word is spoken. For having this ability, I must applaud her.
*insert slow clap*
This story could be true, partially true, based on truth, or loosely based on real-life experiences. I really don’t care. I know this. It’s believable. All of it. The characters, their concerns, their problems, and their solutions are not only plausible, they’re realistic.
I’m not going to get into plot points, storylines, or hide spoilers in my review. I will say this: we read to be stimulated. To be transformed, through complex visualizations, into the world in which the characters live.
Infrequently, we find a book that allows us to insert ourselves into the character’s world and reside there for the majority of the storyline. We can often relate to the story, but missing plot points and hit-and-miss story structure prevent us from becoming immersed.
Rarely do we find a book that yanks us into its world Alice in Wonderland style (through the rabbit hole), making it impossible to escape until that dream (book) is over.
This is that book. Easton is that author.
SKIN stimulates the mind using Easton’s uncanny ability to properly structure a story in a manner that very few can.
With one book, Easton has climbed to the top of my author list. Perched atop that assembly of thousands of books, she sits, waiting for someone to knock her off. I’m standing at the base of said mountain grinning slyly, knowing whoever takes a shot at her is going to have to bring more than their "A” game.
Because Easton, at least as of this writing, stands alone.
During this break, I read. It fuels my artistic ability, keeps me sharp, and prevents my brain from turning to mush.
My problem, and it’s huge, is this: I must be hooked in the first chapter (two at the most). The writer’s style and prose can be fabulous, but if he/she doesn’t interest me in EVERYTHING in a couple chapters, I can’t continue. As a result of this, I have read the first two or three chapters of thousands upon thousands of books.
In the last five years, I’ve had my go-to authors. I try others (a different author every day), but always seem to return to my go-to authors for my relief.
Vi Keeland. Penelope Ward. C.D. Reiss. LJ Shen. When I pick up one of their books, I know what I’m in for. I know it’ll allow me to escape, feel refreshed, and fuel me to get up and work another eight hours.
So, now that you know my schedule (and my concerns), I’ll tell my story.
An Amazon book recommendation is generally well-received. In fact, I almost always have a look at what they recommend. Infrequently, I read the entire book. A few chapters here, a few there.
Never (even if I am ‘hooked’) do I simply devour it.
Until now.
44 Chapters was recommended by Amazon. After a few sentences, I knew BB Easton had the ability to hook me. So, I got on Goodreads and read a few reviews, the questions on her author page, and the respective responses. Based on my findings, I decided to begin with SKIN, not 44 Chapters.
Remember, NOTHING changes my work schedule.
Nothing but SKIN.
I ditched my current project. I stopped eating. I stopped paying attention to my wife. I cared about nothing in my life except for BB and Knight.
These two characters became my life.
Easton magically inserted me into her novel of teenage despair, eating disorders, suicide, drug use, violence, sex, lust (and love), and there I remained.
Hell, I’ve been done with it for twelve hours, and I’m still living it.
What an accomplishment. To take a fifty-three-year-old man, thrust him into high school again, and capture his ENTIRE interest. This, my fellow readers, is not a simple task. We read to escape, and most of us want to escape to a place we can relate to (or at least imagine inserting ourselves into). I hated school. Loathed. Yeah, loathed is more like it. Detested.
SKIN made me love being there. Shit, I want to go back to fuckwater Kansas and get a chance at a re-do.
Easton’s writing style exhibits a poetic pace that simply sucks the reader in and doesn’t release them until the last word is spoken. For having this ability, I must applaud her.
*insert slow clap*
This story could be true, partially true, based on truth, or loosely based on real-life experiences. I really don’t care. I know this. It’s believable. All of it. The characters, their concerns, their problems, and their solutions are not only plausible, they’re realistic.
I’m not going to get into plot points, storylines, or hide spoilers in my review. I will say this: we read to be stimulated. To be transformed, through complex visualizations, into the world in which the characters live.
Infrequently, we find a book that allows us to insert ourselves into the character’s world and reside there for the majority of the storyline. We can often relate to the story, but missing plot points and hit-and-miss story structure prevent us from becoming immersed.
Rarely do we find a book that yanks us into its world Alice in Wonderland style (through the rabbit hole), making it impossible to escape until that dream (book) is over.
This is that book. Easton is that author.
SKIN stimulates the mind using Easton’s uncanny ability to properly structure a story in a manner that very few can.
With one book, Easton has climbed to the top of my author list. Perched atop that assembly of thousands of books, she sits, waiting for someone to knock her off. I’m standing at the base of said mountain grinning slyly, knowing whoever takes a shot at her is going to have to bring more than their "A” game.
Because Easton, at least as of this writing, stands alone.
February 28, 2019
Skin by B. B. Easton is unlike any romance I've read before. It's a hard book to describe, and I'm not sure it's possible for me do it justice in a couple of sentences or paragraphs. It's the kind of book that you just have to pick up and experience for yourself.
I didn't read 44 Chapter's, so this was my first time meeting Knight and B. B. It was also my first book by this author, so I had no idea what to expect from it. Woud it keep my attention? Would I like the writing style? Would I be invested in the characters? The answer to all of those questions is a big, fat "YES."
Being a teenager is hard, and this book portrayed that perfectly. I felt all the beautiful highs and heartbreaking lows right along with the characters...every funny, awkward, sweet, strange, terrifying, fucked up little thing.
Knight and B. B. captivated me right away, and I couldn't leave them until I knew what was going to happen to them in the end. It's no spoiler that they don't live happily ever after. We know that before the book even begins, but that didn't make it hurt any less.
In the end, Skin left me feeling conflicted, upset, and sad which is not what I expected. I read this book months ago, but it took me until now to be able to write something about it. I just couldn't get a hold on how I felt enough to write a proper review.
Months later, what I can tell you is that it's a book that stayed with me for a long time after I read it. It's not a novel that you put down and never think about again. It's one you ponder and reflect upon.
I think the main reason this story held my mind hostage the way it did was how real and raw it is. Everything that happens isn't given a complete explanation. We don't know the reason or truth about every little detail. Nothing is wrapped up in a tidy little bow. Just like in real life, we're left with what we were told, what we saw, and what we felt. That's all.
Skin is an unique, emotional, and addictive YA/NA romance set in the 90's. The characters are complex and three dimensional. The romance is steamy, heartwarming, and heartbreaking, but what stood out most to me about this book was the writing. It's phenomenal, and I want more of it! I'm so down to follow B. B. on her journey to reach her happily ever after...even if my heart gets a little bumped and bruised along the way.
I recommend Skin to anyone that likes unconventional romance novels, the 90's, and books based on real people and events.
I didn't read 44 Chapter's, so this was my first time meeting Knight and B. B. It was also my first book by this author, so I had no idea what to expect from it. Woud it keep my attention? Would I like the writing style? Would I be invested in the characters? The answer to all of those questions is a big, fat "YES."
Being a teenager is hard, and this book portrayed that perfectly. I felt all the beautiful highs and heartbreaking lows right along with the characters...every funny, awkward, sweet, strange, terrifying, fucked up little thing.
Knight and B. B. captivated me right away, and I couldn't leave them until I knew what was going to happen to them in the end. It's no spoiler that they don't live happily ever after. We know that before the book even begins, but that didn't make it hurt any less.
In the end, Skin left me feeling conflicted, upset, and sad which is not what I expected. I read this book months ago, but it took me until now to be able to write something about it. I just couldn't get a hold on how I felt enough to write a proper review.
Months later, what I can tell you is that it's a book that stayed with me for a long time after I read it. It's not a novel that you put down and never think about again. It's one you ponder and reflect upon.
I think the main reason this story held my mind hostage the way it did was how real and raw it is. Everything that happens isn't given a complete explanation. We don't know the reason or truth about every little detail. Nothing is wrapped up in a tidy little bow. Just like in real life, we're left with what we were told, what we saw, and what we felt. That's all.
Skin is an unique, emotional, and addictive YA/NA romance set in the 90's. The characters are complex and three dimensional. The romance is steamy, heartwarming, and heartbreaking, but what stood out most to me about this book was the writing. It's phenomenal, and I want more of it! I'm so down to follow B. B. on her journey to reach her happily ever after...even if my heart gets a little bumped and bruised along the way.
I recommend Skin to anyone that likes unconventional romance novels, the 90's, and books based on real people and events.
December 13, 2016
I adored 44 Chapters about 4 Men.
It did not prepare me for how hard I feel in love with Skin.
There are books you read, and then there are books you experience. Skin was an absolute joyride, laced with adrenaline, nostalgia, and an understanding of the misunderstood.
When BB asked me (I forced her) to beta read, I was coming down from my high after 44 Chapters. I thought I wanted more of BB’s sharp tongue and her uncanny ability to make fun of herself for the sake of literature. What I got was different. What I got was everything I didn’t even know I needed from her: undiluted honesty.
Everything changed for me by Part Two. Knight was no longer just a skinhead, BB was no longer just a teenage girl in love with a stereotypical bad boy, and every secondary character wasn’t just secondary—they were me. They’ll be you, too, because Skin is nothing if not relatable. You may not have been in love with a skinhead, but you were in love with someone you shouldn’t have been. You may not have been a ninety-pound punk rocker who was really, secretly into alternative music, but you were once a clueless girl who molded yourself into something so people would like you. Your parents were shitty sometimes, but they tried their best. Your best friend was an idiot sometimes, but she was honest about it. You weren’t from a small town in Georgia, but you were from a town you couldn’t wait to break free from.
I did not expect Skin to be so profound. I did not expect it to make me feel anything more than light-hearted and effervescent. I did not expect to be BB.
But I am.
My attempt at irony:
Skin is not just skin deep.
It’s heart deep.
It’s soul deep.
It’s look-in-the-mirror-and-know-that-you-are-enough deep.
Skin is my new favorite book, and it will be yours too. B.B Easton rocked this community with 44 Chapters about 4 Men, but she’s about to demolish it with Skin. And we’re all lucky enough to be here to see it.
Read this book, own it, love it, cut your heart out and wipe the blood up with the pages of this masterpiece. You won’t be sorry.
It did not prepare me for how hard I feel in love with Skin.
There are books you read, and then there are books you experience. Skin was an absolute joyride, laced with adrenaline, nostalgia, and an understanding of the misunderstood.
When BB asked me (I forced her) to beta read, I was coming down from my high after 44 Chapters. I thought I wanted more of BB’s sharp tongue and her uncanny ability to make fun of herself for the sake of literature. What I got was different. What I got was everything I didn’t even know I needed from her: undiluted honesty.
Everything changed for me by Part Two. Knight was no longer just a skinhead, BB was no longer just a teenage girl in love with a stereotypical bad boy, and every secondary character wasn’t just secondary—they were me. They’ll be you, too, because Skin is nothing if not relatable. You may not have been in love with a skinhead, but you were in love with someone you shouldn’t have been. You may not have been a ninety-pound punk rocker who was really, secretly into alternative music, but you were once a clueless girl who molded yourself into something so people would like you. Your parents were shitty sometimes, but they tried their best. Your best friend was an idiot sometimes, but she was honest about it. You weren’t from a small town in Georgia, but you were from a town you couldn’t wait to break free from.
I did not expect Skin to be so profound. I did not expect it to make me feel anything more than light-hearted and effervescent. I did not expect to be BB.
But I am.
My attempt at irony:
Skin is not just skin deep.
It’s heart deep.
It’s soul deep.
It’s look-in-the-mirror-and-know-that-you-are-enough deep.
Skin is my new favorite book, and it will be yours too. B.B Easton rocked this community with 44 Chapters about 4 Men, but she’s about to demolish it with Skin. And we’re all lucky enough to be here to see it.
Read this book, own it, love it, cut your heart out and wipe the blood up with the pages of this masterpiece. You won’t be sorry.
December 29, 2018
*****FIVE STARS*****
I'm reading this series completely out of order but still loving it.
I'm reading this series completely out of order but still loving it.
November 13, 2021
4 STARS
WOW readers, BB Easton had one hell of a sophomore year of high school. Her past is full of bad decisions and teenage angst. This story is based on her fifteen year old teenage self. I’m assuming that I’m a bit older than the author from the music and the cell phone mention (lol). I wasn’t a punk type like BB but I was at the time thought of as a rocker (Metallica, Anthrax, etc.) My school had a tiny skinhead population I believe we had about six or so. However, BB’s high school had just one and he was known as Knight. Young BB's not interested in this skinhead she's had her sights set on the giant punk rocker with the mohawk named Lance Hightower.
”When I was ten I wanted a trampoline. Now I wanted Lance, and I always got what I wanted.”
No matter how focused BB was on her goal of landing Lance Hightower, the terrifying skinhead Knight seemed to be equally interested in keeping her safe. BB brilliantly told her story of going from barely friends to much, much, more as these two fell in love.
”The jig was up. Whether I liked it or not, I had become Skeletor the Skinhead’s girlfriend.”
The humor in this book is spot on as is the delivery and reveal layer by layer of who Knight is under those braces. I was equally intrigued and scared by his character and taken by the depth of his pain and his kindness.
"I kept people away. I never let anybody get too close. Until you.”
This story had a few things like Knight’s blood obsession (he’s not a vampire) however it still creeped me out. There is one scene that a sexual act is mentioned and it’s driving me nuts to know whether it was true or not. Overall, this book isn’t a light read so be please be prepared for subject material such as suicide, murder, anorexia, drugs, and sexual blood play all revolving around a heroine of the age of fifteen.
*Can be read as a standalone*
WOW readers, BB Easton had one hell of a sophomore year of high school. Her past is full of bad decisions and teenage angst. This story is based on her fifteen year old teenage self. I’m assuming that I’m a bit older than the author from the music and the cell phone mention (lol). I wasn’t a punk type like BB but I was at the time thought of as a rocker (Metallica, Anthrax, etc.) My school had a tiny skinhead population I believe we had about six or so. However, BB’s high school had just one and he was known as Knight. Young BB's not interested in this skinhead she's had her sights set on the giant punk rocker with the mohawk named Lance Hightower.
”When I was ten I wanted a trampoline. Now I wanted Lance, and I always got what I wanted.”
No matter how focused BB was on her goal of landing Lance Hightower, the terrifying skinhead Knight seemed to be equally interested in keeping her safe. BB brilliantly told her story of going from barely friends to much, much, more as these two fell in love.
”The jig was up. Whether I liked it or not, I had become Skeletor the Skinhead’s girlfriend.”
The humor in this book is spot on as is the delivery and reveal layer by layer of who Knight is under those braces. I was equally intrigued and scared by his character and taken by the depth of his pain and his kindness.
"I kept people away. I never let anybody get too close. Until you.”
This story had a few things like Knight’s blood obsession (he’s not a vampire) however it still creeped me out. There is one scene that a sexual act is mentioned and it’s driving me nuts to know whether it was true or not. Overall, this book isn’t a light read so be please be prepared for subject material such as suicide, murder, anorexia, drugs, and sexual blood play all revolving around a heroine of the age of fifteen.
*Can be read as a standalone*
August 13, 2017
5 ABSOLUTELY AMAZING STARS!!!
MY FIRST 5 STAR READ OF 2017!!!!
THIS BOOK!! Gosh ever since 44 Chapters About 4 Men I've had this sick, twisted thing for Knight. I love me some Knight! And when I heard he was gonna have his own book and I saw it appear on my kindle, cause BB is the shit and she sent it to me, I was like a kid in a candy store! I put everything down to read this.
It was UNPUTDOWNABLE! And I'm not just saying that cause BB is my friend (if you know me then you know if I didn't like this book I just wouldn't say anything at all) but this book is amazing. I seriously was engrossed in this story and all the fucked-up-ness that's Knight. I literally read it in one sitting. It took me forever to write this review cause I was like what do I say?! I loved this book so much I felt like the words I was writing down wasn't doing it justice.
It was funny, twisted, strange, sexy kind of read and I loved every freaking minute of it. It gave me all sorts of feels...some I wasn't even expecting. BBs writing is superb and even though I read it months ago, I still think about this book. All I can say is read it! I don't want to give the story away, just go into blind and if you've read 44 Chapters then you have an idea of what you're in for.
*ARC graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
MY FIRST 5 STAR READ OF 2017!!!!
THIS BOOK!! Gosh ever since 44 Chapters About 4 Men I've had this sick, twisted thing for Knight. I love me some Knight! And when I heard he was gonna have his own book and I saw it appear on my kindle, cause BB is the shit and she sent it to me, I was like a kid in a candy store! I put everything down to read this.
It was UNPUTDOWNABLE! And I'm not just saying that cause BB is my friend (if you know me then you know if I didn't like this book I just wouldn't say anything at all) but this book is amazing. I seriously was engrossed in this story and all the fucked-up-ness that's Knight. I literally read it in one sitting. It took me forever to write this review cause I was like what do I say?! I loved this book so much I felt like the words I was writing down wasn't doing it justice.
It was funny, twisted, strange, sexy kind of read and I loved every freaking minute of it. It gave me all sorts of feels...some I wasn't even expecting. BBs writing is superb and even though I read it months ago, I still think about this book. All I can say is read it! I don't want to give the story away, just go into blind and if you've read 44 Chapters then you have an idea of what you're in for.
*ARC graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
March 8, 2017
Genre: General Fiction/Romance
Type: Standalone Book 2 from 44 Chapters series
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:
Brooke (BB) Bradley thought the first day of high school was going to be the start of her path to greatness. Little did she know how different everything would be when she caught the eyes of the most notorious boy in school.
Ronald (Knight) McKnight was the epitome of a bad boy. As the only Skinhead in the area, people gave him wide berth. His temper was legendary and to be on his radar equals death sentence. But behind all that hardness was a side only the privileged could see.
I love Knight so much in 44 Chapters About 4 Men. I was so afraid this book won't do him justice and I'm glad how it made me love him even more.
I was not happy with how Knight was portrayed in book 1. Maybe that was the author's reality but I wanted to see his humanity and I got that in this book. I will forever have a soft spot for fucked up, misunderstood characters because I believe everyone should have the chance to be adored. And I adore Knight completely with all his flaws.
BB was crazy and fun. She was a typical 15 years old girl (albeit a lot wilder than most lol!). She did things to impress boy and struggled with personal demons. She made mistakes but learned to recognize them.
I like how this book made Knight to be more than just the scary Skinhead. Selfishly I still wanted more than just their teenage courtship. I wanted to know more beyond that until the end (even though it scares the shit out of me lol!). Maybe there will be bits and pieces of him in next books? I surely hope so.
I love the author's fun quirky writing in book 1. It's still present here with the addition of a serious undertone to the darker issues in the story.
Skin is the story of growing pains of two teenagers within the punk subculture. It would appeal to readers who love flawed characters.
Note 1:
I love Knight so much it hurts. I wish he wasn’t based on a real person...
Note 2:
I had my own semi punk, semi skater phase during my teenage years haha!
Books in the series:
⚜ ⚔⚜ . . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . ⚜ ⚔⚜
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone Book 2 from 44 Chapters series
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:
Brooke (BB) Bradley thought the first day of high school was going to be the start of her path to greatness. Little did she know how different everything would be when she caught the eyes of the most notorious boy in school.
Ronald (Knight) McKnight was the epitome of a bad boy. As the only Skinhead in the area, people gave him wide berth. His temper was legendary and to be on his radar equals death sentence. But behind all that hardness was a side only the privileged could see.
I love Knight so much in 44 Chapters About 4 Men. I was so afraid this book won't do him justice and I'm glad how it made me love him even more.
“You don’t know what’s inside of me, Punk. It goes away when I’m with you, but it’s not gone. It’s never gone."
I was not happy with how Knight was portrayed in book 1. Maybe that was the author's reality but I wanted to see his humanity and I got that in this book. I will forever have a soft spot for fucked up, misunderstood characters because I believe everyone should have the chance to be adored. And I adore Knight completely with all his flaws.
Up to that point I had tried alcohol, caffeine pills, marijuana, LSD, cocaine, crank, prescription pain killers, and ecstasy, but I had never felt euphoria like that.
BB was crazy and fun. She was a typical 15 years old girl (albeit a lot wilder than most lol!). She did things to impress boy and struggled with personal demons. She made mistakes but learned to recognize them.
He tricked me when he smiled like that. He made me see someone else—a cute boy with perfect teeth, a hard body, and a smattering of light brown freckles across the bridge of his nose.
I like how this book made Knight to be more than just the scary Skinhead. Selfishly I still wanted more than just their teenage courtship. I wanted to know more beyond that until the end (even though it scares the shit out of me lol!). Maybe there will be bits and pieces of him in next books? I surely hope so.
I could almost hear his armor clatter to the floor as I peered into the face of someone vulnerable, aching, and alone.
I love the author's fun quirky writing in book 1. It's still present here with the addition of a serious undertone to the darker issues in the story.
Skin is the story of growing pains of two teenagers within the punk subculture. It would appeal to readers who love flawed characters.
Note 1:
I love Knight so much it hurts. I wish he wasn’t based on a real person...
Note 2:
I had my own semi punk, semi skater phase during my teenage years haha!
Books in the series:
⚜ ⚔⚜ . . . (F)BR With Loyda . . . ⚜ ⚔⚜
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
February 19, 2017
★★★★★ 5 Stars ★★★★★
I don't know what I expected when I decided to read this book, I think what caught my eye was the fact that it was based on a skinhead, which really intrigued me. The skinhead movement originated in London, so I was really interested to read about how it would be in a small American town in the 90's.
The heroine is 15, the hero 18 - and it's an intense and explicit relationship that some readers might be uncomfortable with. I, however, remember what it was like to be a 15-year-old girl, and whilst I was mildly innocent, and I wasn't an angel let's be honest, I know that many many kids my age were doing far worse than me.
The characters in this story were flawed, but so unbelievable real, and don't get me started on Knight, he's probably up there, top of the list of 'most loved psychopathic book heroes '.
This book encapsulated everything about the era, the feelings that consume teens, the horrors of high school when you are 'different' - it was just absolutely enthralling.
This book ripped me open, and I welcomed it with open arms, it was just what I needed to pull me out of a funk of 'same old, same old' reads. This series is based on the authors true life relationships, and I for one cannot wait to read all about her next ex in Speed.
What a wonderfully refreshing format, I can't recommend this enough, I loved everything about it, warts and all!
Skin is a New Adult romance, which touches on heavy subjects such as underage sex, anorexia, teenage pregnancy, and bullying. First in a new series, but can be read as a standalone.
Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.
I don't know what I expected when I decided to read this book, I think what caught my eye was the fact that it was based on a skinhead, which really intrigued me. The skinhead movement originated in London, so I was really interested to read about how it would be in a small American town in the 90's.
The heroine is 15, the hero 18 - and it's an intense and explicit relationship that some readers might be uncomfortable with. I, however, remember what it was like to be a 15-year-old girl, and whilst I was mildly innocent, and I wasn't an angel let's be honest, I know that many many kids my age were doing far worse than me.
The characters in this story were flawed, but so unbelievable real, and don't get me started on Knight, he's probably up there, top of the list of 'most loved psychopathic book heroes '.
"I realized as his nostrils flared that Knight was very much like a pit bull. Vicious. Loyal. Misunderstood."
This book encapsulated everything about the era, the feelings that consume teens, the horrors of high school when you are 'different' - it was just absolutely enthralling.
This book ripped me open, and I welcomed it with open arms, it was just what I needed to pull me out of a funk of 'same old, same old' reads. This series is based on the authors true life relationships, and I for one cannot wait to read all about her next ex in Speed.
What a wonderfully refreshing format, I can't recommend this enough, I loved everything about it, warts and all!
Skin is a New Adult romance, which touches on heavy subjects such as underage sex, anorexia, teenage pregnancy, and bullying. First in a new series, but can be read as a standalone.
Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.
Read
March 6, 2017love any book that brings me back to my wild days. Riot grrls and punk rock boys for the win :)
February 7, 2017
I was doing flips when I found SKIN on my kindle!! I literally ran around the house dancing. So after my little jig was done I got in my comfy pink reading chair and began. My heart and mind where taken over by BBs words. I was reading my past reflection. Lol! She hit my adolescence drama. I enjoyed her writing skills so much! She had me laughing, sighing and screaming obscenities. Her honesty is on point with the 90s era. I loved her knowledge of music and fan art wisdom. Some chapters had me crying and cringing at the same time. I was an emotional wreck for awhile. Her story ends with a good note and positive vibes. Another Five Star Read!! Can't wait to read more from this amazing author!!!
September 12, 2018
1.5 Million Stars ******************
Ahhhh, the sweet magic of books. I opened this book, and in a second I was gone, completely consumed. B.B Easton held me hostage from page 1. I didn’t sleep, because I couldn’t put the book down. And today I can’t eat, can’t think, can’t function until I get to continue reading the next books. This author’s writing style is completely addictive, and her story is so thrilling, so entertaining, so utterly broken, that I can’t help myself, I’m obsessing over it.
I met this author a couple of years ago at a book signing in Colorado, we were introduced by a mutual friend (Hi Julie) and next thing I know she’s offering to do shots of Jameson with her, a girl after my own heart, I thought. I remember thinking she was such a pretty little thing, and also, there’s something about her that simply calls for your attention. I promised myself then that I would check out her books. Now, after reading about her story, how badass she was from such a young age, it all makes sense. She has a real talent for writing stories, so easy, so fun, so enthralling. I couldn’t look away, this is one of those stories that you feel on your skin, you feel with your heart.
I love how all the characters were young, but so interesting, so misunderstood. This story has fire, and I was happy to burn inside the pages of this novel. So, for the next few days, I’ve decided to do nothing but read these books. So far there’s 4 in this series, they are all based on true events, and experiences B.B went through, but it read like a romance fiction novel, which is awesome. I’ll put the purchase links down below, and do yourself a favor, buy them and read them. I imagine everyone who reads these books feeling as euphoric and obsessed with B.B and her romantic stories as I am. So much fun!!!
B.B Easton Facebook page: https://bit.ly/2x8W1aY
* 44 Chapters About 4 Men: A Memoir
https://amzn.to/2MjB0A1
* Skin : https://amzn.to/2CNaqzS
* Speed : https://amzn.to/2CPifF5
*Star: https://amzn.to/2N7bdAd
Ahhhh, the sweet magic of books. I opened this book, and in a second I was gone, completely consumed. B.B Easton held me hostage from page 1. I didn’t sleep, because I couldn’t put the book down. And today I can’t eat, can’t think, can’t function until I get to continue reading the next books. This author’s writing style is completely addictive, and her story is so thrilling, so entertaining, so utterly broken, that I can’t help myself, I’m obsessing over it.
I met this author a couple of years ago at a book signing in Colorado, we were introduced by a mutual friend (Hi Julie) and next thing I know she’s offering to do shots of Jameson with her, a girl after my own heart, I thought. I remember thinking she was such a pretty little thing, and also, there’s something about her that simply calls for your attention. I promised myself then that I would check out her books. Now, after reading about her story, how badass she was from such a young age, it all makes sense. She has a real talent for writing stories, so easy, so fun, so enthralling. I couldn’t look away, this is one of those stories that you feel on your skin, you feel with your heart.
I love how all the characters were young, but so interesting, so misunderstood. This story has fire, and I was happy to burn inside the pages of this novel. So, for the next few days, I’ve decided to do nothing but read these books. So far there’s 4 in this series, they are all based on true events, and experiences B.B went through, but it read like a romance fiction novel, which is awesome. I’ll put the purchase links down below, and do yourself a favor, buy them and read them. I imagine everyone who reads these books feeling as euphoric and obsessed with B.B and her romantic stories as I am. So much fun!!!
B.B Easton Facebook page: https://bit.ly/2x8W1aY
* 44 Chapters About 4 Men: A Memoir
https://amzn.to/2MjB0A1
* Skin : https://amzn.to/2CNaqzS
* Speed : https://amzn.to/2CPifF5
*Star: https://amzn.to/2N7bdAd
November 21, 2019
So any time something is made into a Netflix series, movie, etc, the pedant in me needs to read it.
I made an exception for After and I likely will for others along the way. I've been so so curious about this somewhat-memoir because I do love the concept of how all of those broken somewhat tragic love affairs lead us to where we are. I love birthdays too... So I mean, you get me. Plus 90s!
This one was an absolute doozy. Knight isn't a skinhead, just dresses like one and hates everyone except BB. I get that it's his armor and,yeah, but even BB never seems fully convinced, and this reader was a bit confused over the history he shared like it was some sort of justification. So no. And any modern portrayal of him, where we're told "there's very good people on both sides" just better not make him sympathetic in any way.
And yet, after the first 20% it was oddly like a train wreck I couldn't look away from.
**This installment is NOT a romance** it is brutally honest, if embellished, view of one teen's life and I think, unlike The Things They Carried so much of these plot points matter in what is true, or you'd feel cheated, that some of these stories HAVE to be, but absolutely aren't. (See: How to tell a true war story)
The TW/CW are too long to list. Some of them made me hate everyone. Some of them were all too familiar. Lots of them might remind you of a broken boy you once knew who only cared about you and how the weight of that is exhilarating and totally suffocating all at once. You might see your friends here. You might see yourself. It makes it relatable but it doesn't make it good.
There was some that was lovely. There was some I even thought teenage romantic in a really authentic way. However some of it is anachronistic, which is part of why I read this book, some of it is clearly exaggerated and fake, and some of it all too real. I get the appeal... But I can't like it for its execution. And I can't like it for how the hero chooses to alienate himself either.
I made an exception for After and I likely will for others along the way. I've been so so curious about this somewhat-memoir because I do love the concept of how all of those broken somewhat tragic love affairs lead us to where we are. I love birthdays too... So I mean, you get me. Plus 90s!
This one was an absolute doozy. Knight isn't a skinhead, just dresses like one and hates everyone except BB. I get that it's his armor and,yeah, but even BB never seems fully convinced, and this reader was a bit confused over the history he shared like it was some sort of justification. So no. And any modern portrayal of him, where we're told "there's very good people on both sides" just better not make him sympathetic in any way.
And yet, after the first 20% it was oddly like a train wreck I couldn't look away from.
**This installment is NOT a romance** it is brutally honest, if embellished, view of one teen's life and I think, unlike The Things They Carried so much of these plot points matter in what is true, or you'd feel cheated, that some of these stories HAVE to be, but absolutely aren't. (See: How to tell a true war story)
The TW/CW are too long to list. Some of them made me hate everyone. Some of them were all too familiar. Lots of them might remind you of a broken boy you once knew who only cared about you and how the weight of that is exhilarating and totally suffocating all at once. You might see your friends here. You might see yourself. It makes it relatable but it doesn't make it good.
There was some that was lovely. There was some I even thought teenage romantic in a really authentic way. However some of it is anachronistic, which is part of why I read this book, some of it is clearly exaggerated and fake, and some of it all too real. I get the appeal... But I can't like it for its execution. And I can't like it for how the hero chooses to alienate himself either.
December 14, 2016
Anyone that knows me, knows of my love for that twisted fuck Knight. Well he got his own book, and you bet your sweet ass the #TeamCaptain was one of the first to read it. MIND. BLOWN. I expected so much out of this book, and it was delivered ten fold. I loved 44 chapters, it introduced us to Knight. But this book, this book right here, blows 44 out of the water. BB is so witty, and just fucking cool. I felt like this whole time BB and I lived parallel lives (she's just way fucking cooler than me), and I KNOW we would have been friends in high school.
It's been a week since I finished this book, and I find myself going back and rereading passages. It's with me all day, in my thoughts, I day dream about it. I have been stalking FB for any updates. I'm even more obsessed now that the cover has been released. GAH! That cover is perfection! (Thanks Ken!)
Everyone knew a Knight in high school, the outcast, the loner, the ultimate bad boy. Knight is the taboo we all loved or wish we did. BB lets us relive or live it through her story telling. She has graced us with a glimpse into her past, and what a story! BB breathed a new life into this genre with her honesty, and witty story telling. In a world where the stories are bleeding together, and you cant remember the story lines, Skin is a beacon in the dark. Journey with BB and Knight. Fall in love with this psycho, and you will emerge wishing that you are the Punk to that Skin. 44 was the best book of 2016, this one is the best of 2017.
PS How awesome are you that you could even write a memoir. BB, that bitch is writing FIVE! What are you waiting for?! Jump on the BB train and meet these Men.
I need a Knight tattoo now... BB want to get matching one with me?
It's been a week since I finished this book, and I find myself going back and rereading passages. It's with me all day, in my thoughts, I day dream about it. I have been stalking FB for any updates. I'm even more obsessed now that the cover has been released. GAH! That cover is perfection! (Thanks Ken!)
Everyone knew a Knight in high school, the outcast, the loner, the ultimate bad boy. Knight is the taboo we all loved or wish we did. BB lets us relive or live it through her story telling. She has graced us with a glimpse into her past, and what a story! BB breathed a new life into this genre with her honesty, and witty story telling. In a world where the stories are bleeding together, and you cant remember the story lines, Skin is a beacon in the dark. Journey with BB and Knight. Fall in love with this psycho, and you will emerge wishing that you are the Punk to that Skin. 44 was the best book of 2016, this one is the best of 2017.
PS How awesome are you that you could even write a memoir. BB, that bitch is writing FIVE! What are you waiting for?! Jump on the BB train and meet these Men.
I need a Knight tattoo now... BB want to get matching one with me?
February 8, 2017
In 2016 I was lucky enough to discover BB Easton and her hilarious novel, 44 Chapters About 4 Men. I couldn't keep the smile from my face as I read and I laughed out loud a lot. Which isn't normal for me. Most novels may just get a smirk out of me or a tiny chuckle.
When I heard that Skin would be taking a more serious tone I was not worried. I trusted BB. I knew she was listening to the characters and the story they wanted to tell. It's easy to just fall right back on what worked for you the first time you found success rather than trying something new. I'm glad BB didn't go the easy route.
Skin was like a time warp. It brought me back to high school and all the boys I knew I loved and would never forget. My high school years were very PG next to our protagonist's but that doesn't mean I couldn't relate to every word. We all fell head over heels for another kid we passed in the halls between classes. I felt every emotion BB did.
I've never been one to dig the bad boys. Lucky for me Knight never felt like the bad boy. He wasn't some poser. He was the real deal. He was a broken boy with a steel exterior and he broke my heart on every page he graced.
BB will always be a one-click for me and I can't wait to see what's next.
#teamknight
When I heard that Skin would be taking a more serious tone I was not worried. I trusted BB. I knew she was listening to the characters and the story they wanted to tell. It's easy to just fall right back on what worked for you the first time you found success rather than trying something new. I'm glad BB didn't go the easy route.
Skin was like a time warp. It brought me back to high school and all the boys I knew I loved and would never forget. My high school years were very PG next to our protagonist's but that doesn't mean I couldn't relate to every word. We all fell head over heels for another kid we passed in the halls between classes. I felt every emotion BB did.
I've never been one to dig the bad boys. Lucky for me Knight never felt like the bad boy. He wasn't some poser. He was the real deal. He was a broken boy with a steel exterior and he broke my heart on every page he graced.
BB will always be a one-click for me and I can't wait to see what's next.
#teamknight
March 16, 2017
4.5 STATS
F(BR) with War, I'll be the one on the right. Bring on the pain!
F(BR) with War, I'll be the one on the right. Bring on the pain!
August 5, 2017
I loved everything about this book. The way the story is told is unlike anything I've read before and so unique. The honesty bleeding from every page is so refreshing. Wonderful read!
BB is such a badass! ♥
BB is such a badass! ♥
February 7, 2017
4.5 what BB and Knight taught me stars
What BB & Knight taught me
- I was boring as all get out in high school
- don't ever fully judge a book by it's really scowly, scary, zombieish cover
- BB is like damaged soul antidote
- stealing chicken patty sandwiches for someone is the first signs of true friendship
- falling in love sometimes just happens when you don't even know it
- sometimes white Knights both save and break you
- unrequited love happens, and it sucks, but you learn from it
- being a teenager is brutal. Like so so brutal.
- life isn't easy, and sometimes people check out before we are ready for them to
As funny and witty as BB Easton was in 44 chapters, she was equally as emotional and raw in this book. I dove into this one unsure about how I'd feel about the skinhead ex-boyfriend, and BB changed that so quickly I barely had the chance to blink. People are more than outward appearances. Heck, people are much MORE than what they portray themselves as.
This read was about BB and Knights relationship sure. It was also about their relationships with friends and family. Their high school happenings and their angsty teenage emotions.
Some crazy things happen in this book. Sure everything isn't true, but not knowing makes it all even more interesting. What I do know is true is that for a time Knight loved BB and BB loved Knight, and it was terrifyingly beautiful.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoyed 44 chapters, just know it's much more of an emotional read. Also highly recommend to anyone who enjoys an angsty MATURE young adult novel.
Also, I am absolutely GIDDY to read what comes next. MY FAVORITE OF THE EX'S! *hearteyes*
March 17, 2019
When I started reading this I simply liked it...a lot, but still just liked. For some reason, about a quarter of the way in, I checked out the audio book version and that changed my like to LOVE! Ramona Master is freaking awesome! I could picture everything perfectly. The flirty B.B. The sarcastic B.B. The nervous and afraid B.B. And the in love B.B. It was amazing! I will definitely be listening to the rest of the series rather than reading it.
My two favorite things said... I giggled each time they were said,
Lance "motherfucking" Hightower
AND
Love, KNIGHT
My two favorite things said... I giggled each time they were said,
Lance "motherfucking" Hightower
AND
Love, KNIGHT
April 17, 2020
4.5 stars 💫
In four short months, Knight had gone from being the person I feared most on this planet to the center of my whole fucking universe.
I loved 44 Chapters About 4 Men, so I figured I would love this one too. I was totally right. That being said, this was a little different. More serious. Still just as hilarious, but I wouldn't call this one light like I did 44 Chapters. There were serious issues at play in this one, including but not limited to murder, suicide, eating disorder, drug use, and teen pregnancy. You're probably wondering how a book with these issues can be hilarious, and the answer to that is that the author is just that talented. Also, our narrator is fifteen years old. I know that when I look back on those years, all I seem to remember are either the funniest or dramatic events of my life. That's how it is when you're a teenager, right? Everything is either no big deal or the end of the fucking world. That's what made this such an authentic story. Sometimes when I read YA, I roll my eyes at how mature the author tries to make the MCs seem. It's like they forgot what it was like to be a teenager. Not this author, though. Our MCs were hot messes, and it made this one just as realistic and entertaining as it was heartbreaking.
Figuring out how to get a glimpse of that particular freckle-faced, teenaged boy smile had become my reason for getting up in the morning. That and all the cuddling. And the cunnilingus.
Knight and BB's story doesn't have a happy ending. This isn't a spoiler; if you read 44 Chapters, you know this already, and even if you didn't, the opening lines of this one fill you in. And even if you skipped the first book and the opening pages, you should still figure it out pretty quickly, because people with deep issues like Knight aren't going to be healed at age 18 by a relationship with a fifteen-year-old. It's a nice thought, but the truth is that his first real relationship was always going to be volatile because he simply doesn't know any better. Nobody ever showed him how to be healthy, let alone have a healthy relationship. But that doesn't mean he couldn't love with everything he had, and he did- completely and wholly. Yes, Knight was a psycho, but I couldn't help hoping for better for him. I knew it likely wouldn't happen, but still, he had his moments of being so vulnerable and sweet that I totally understood why BB finally fell for him. I mean, it has to be a heady feeling being the only person in the entire world that somebody likes. And believe me, Knight hated everybody else. (And in his own words, he doesn't hate anyone because of the color of their skin. He just hates everyone period). BB really became Knight's sole focus. At age fifteen, I also would've overlooked the fact he had more red flags than a communist parade so long as I was getting that kind of attention from someone. Shit, I didn't learn that you can't change a man until, like, my mid-twenties. So even though BB made poor decisions, I still loved her. She may have been reckless and naive, but she was lovable in her own way. Because even though she was insecure and a bit of a follower (who wasn't at 15?), she still was one of the only people to take the time to look past Knight's armor and see what was underneath. And no, it wasn't pretty, but first love often isn't. Add in some psychological issues, self-hatred, and childhood trauma and it can be downright ugly. But that doesn't mean it isn't strong as hell and completely genuine... while it lasts and maybe even long after, too.
“When are you going to get that through your fucking head? You aren’t keeping me from something better. You are my something better."
I'd recommend this for anyone that likes serious mixed with a lot of fun (or at least isn't offended by it). The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because I was a little confused by some revelations at the end that didn't make much sense to me. Either I missed something or the fact we only received one POV made them seem out of place, even though they really weren't. A fifteen-year-old girl isn't exactly the most reliable narrator, after all. Also, apparently all these stories are loosely based on real events, so I might be asking too much to want everything wrapped up in a bow. There isn't always an explanation for everything that happens in life... especially for teenagers in the 90s.
“You’re not my fucking friend, Punk. You’re my everything. You will always be my everything. I just hope you can find somebody better than me to be yours.”
In four short months, Knight had gone from being the person I feared most on this planet to the center of my whole fucking universe.
I loved 44 Chapters About 4 Men, so I figured I would love this one too. I was totally right. That being said, this was a little different. More serious. Still just as hilarious, but I wouldn't call this one light like I did 44 Chapters. There were serious issues at play in this one, including but not limited to murder, suicide, eating disorder, drug use, and teen pregnancy. You're probably wondering how a book with these issues can be hilarious, and the answer to that is that the author is just that talented. Also, our narrator is fifteen years old. I know that when I look back on those years, all I seem to remember are either the funniest or dramatic events of my life. That's how it is when you're a teenager, right? Everything is either no big deal or the end of the fucking world. That's what made this such an authentic story. Sometimes when I read YA, I roll my eyes at how mature the author tries to make the MCs seem. It's like they forgot what it was like to be a teenager. Not this author, though. Our MCs were hot messes, and it made this one just as realistic and entertaining as it was heartbreaking.
Figuring out how to get a glimpse of that particular freckle-faced, teenaged boy smile had become my reason for getting up in the morning. That and all the cuddling. And the cunnilingus.
Knight and BB's story doesn't have a happy ending. This isn't a spoiler; if you read 44 Chapters, you know this already, and even if you didn't, the opening lines of this one fill you in. And even if you skipped the first book and the opening pages, you should still figure it out pretty quickly, because people with deep issues like Knight aren't going to be healed at age 18 by a relationship with a fifteen-year-old. It's a nice thought, but the truth is that his first real relationship was always going to be volatile because he simply doesn't know any better. Nobody ever showed him how to be healthy, let alone have a healthy relationship. But that doesn't mean he couldn't love with everything he had, and he did- completely and wholly. Yes, Knight was a psycho, but I couldn't help hoping for better for him. I knew it likely wouldn't happen, but still, he had his moments of being so vulnerable and sweet that I totally understood why BB finally fell for him. I mean, it has to be a heady feeling being the only person in the entire world that somebody likes. And believe me, Knight hated everybody else. (And in his own words, he doesn't hate anyone because of the color of their skin. He just hates everyone period). BB really became Knight's sole focus. At age fifteen, I also would've overlooked the fact he had more red flags than a communist parade so long as I was getting that kind of attention from someone. Shit, I didn't learn that you can't change a man until, like, my mid-twenties. So even though BB made poor decisions, I still loved her. She may have been reckless and naive, but she was lovable in her own way. Because even though she was insecure and a bit of a follower (who wasn't at 15?), she still was one of the only people to take the time to look past Knight's armor and see what was underneath. And no, it wasn't pretty, but first love often isn't. Add in some psychological issues, self-hatred, and childhood trauma and it can be downright ugly. But that doesn't mean it isn't strong as hell and completely genuine... while it lasts and maybe even long after, too.
“When are you going to get that through your fucking head? You aren’t keeping me from something better. You are my something better."
I'd recommend this for anyone that likes serious mixed with a lot of fun (or at least isn't offended by it). The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because I was a little confused by some revelations at the end that didn't make much sense to me. Either I missed something or the fact we only received one POV made them seem out of place, even though they really weren't. A fifteen-year-old girl isn't exactly the most reliable narrator, after all. Also, apparently all these stories are loosely based on real events, so I might be asking too much to want everything wrapped up in a bow. There isn't always an explanation for everything that happens in life... especially for teenagers in the 90s.
“You’re not my fucking friend, Punk. You’re my everything. You will always be my everything. I just hope you can find somebody better than me to be yours.”
February 6, 2017
I have a sick obsession with reality based fiction. That's my excuse I'm going to use today anyways. I was up all night with Skin and Punk. These two are so much more than what you think you are about to read.
I found B.B. Easton on a post where one of my favorite author's was bragging about this funny little tramp named BB and her book 44 Chapters about 4 Men. Of course, I one clicked that and devoured it!
I received an ARC of this book and it's mostly because I'm an impatient millennial that can't wait the three weeks to buy it. BONUS!
Okay.... So, Skin. I am literally still wiping away tears from this book. I'm not easy to break. I pride myself on my ultra guarded heart and lack of emotions. BUT, big ole' but here, I have a weakness. Un-saveable broken-bad boys. They crush me into a million pieces every god damn time.
My emotions are seriously all over the place right now, so this review may be a little disorganized.
But I'm going to try my best.
There is a little bit of BB in all of us that somehow managed to survive high school, witness mayhem and indulge in reckless behavior. Even if it wasn't you, I'm sure you knew the girl that was not so secretly starving herself, the kids that everyone wanted to fit in with, the girl that fell for the drug dealer and even the guy everyone stayed away from for fear of their lives. And if you didn't know at least three of those, you probably had much better high school than most of America. I wasn't BB, but I was. I had a Skin, but he wasn't.
Psychotic. Check.
Gentle. Check
Misunderstood. Check
Damaged. Check.
Angry. Possessive. Frightening. Sexy. Quadruple Check.
If you are looking for humor, wit, angst, lust, love, heart-break and freedom you will get all that wrapped in blood-red ribbon probably stolen from Pier 1. This book was amazing and crazy all at the same time. I promise you will fall in love with Knight the Skinhead surprisingly and unapologetically just as BB did.
My opinion of BB and Knight's relationship completely flipped from that of the original "44 Chapter's" version of Skin. I felt heart-broken at the end. I didn't feel a sense of relief that she escapes. I felt torn apart and devastated. These two were wise beyond their years and Knight was an asshole in Knight-N-Shining something-or-others. Ahhh. My heart.
"You're not my fucking friend, Punk. You're my everything. You will always be my everything. I just hope you can find somebody better than me to be yours."
A thousand psycho-loving stars for SKIN!!
I found B.B. Easton on a post where one of my favorite author's was bragging about this funny little tramp named BB and her book 44 Chapters about 4 Men. Of course, I one clicked that and devoured it!
I received an ARC of this book and it's mostly because I'm an impatient millennial that can't wait the three weeks to buy it. BONUS!
Okay.... So, Skin. I am literally still wiping away tears from this book. I'm not easy to break. I pride myself on my ultra guarded heart and lack of emotions. BUT, big ole' but here, I have a weakness. Un-saveable broken-bad boys. They crush me into a million pieces every god damn time.
My emotions are seriously all over the place right now, so this review may be a little disorganized.
But I'm going to try my best.
There is a little bit of BB in all of us that somehow managed to survive high school, witness mayhem and indulge in reckless behavior. Even if it wasn't you, I'm sure you knew the girl that was not so secretly starving herself, the kids that everyone wanted to fit in with, the girl that fell for the drug dealer and even the guy everyone stayed away from for fear of their lives. And if you didn't know at least three of those, you probably had much better high school than most of America. I wasn't BB, but I was. I had a Skin, but he wasn't.
Psychotic. Check.
Gentle. Check
Misunderstood. Check
Damaged. Check.
Angry. Possessive. Frightening. Sexy. Quadruple Check.
If you are looking for humor, wit, angst, lust, love, heart-break and freedom you will get all that wrapped in blood-red ribbon probably stolen from Pier 1. This book was amazing and crazy all at the same time. I promise you will fall in love with Knight the Skinhead surprisingly and unapologetically just as BB did.
My opinion of BB and Knight's relationship completely flipped from that of the original "44 Chapter's" version of Skin. I felt heart-broken at the end. I didn't feel a sense of relief that she escapes. I felt torn apart and devastated. These two were wise beyond their years and Knight was an asshole in Knight-N-Shining something-or-others. Ahhh. My heart.
"You're not my fucking friend, Punk. You're my everything. You will always be my everything. I just hope you can find somebody better than me to be yours."
A thousand psycho-loving stars for SKIN!!
September 18, 2018
Ah, I found myself much more impressed with Skin rather than 44 Chapters. Which is refreshing. I was really hoping for that considering I felt like the minority with 44 Chapters.
"I kept people away. I never let anybody get too close. Until you."
44 Chapters just didn't really give me enough time to be "team Knight" like I kept seeing people say but Skin was enough to make me turn a complete 180. Full blow Knight train. I'll be the caboose leader, IDGAF.
And you know what? I think Knight gave 15 year old BB just what she needed. And it gave me just what I needed. Nostalgia back to my very own Knight. 15 year old me might not have had her nipples pierced but she was crazy and she was crazy about a Knight.
"You make me fucking weak and I make you way too fucking hard."
Who would have thought you could find angst and love in a story based on true events? Who knew you'd connect to it? Either way, I did. And I'm glad that I did. Now I'm ready for Harley. I'm eternally thankful for the books that we will receive on these men. Because living vicariously through BB is a fun and wacky ride that I'm not ready to get off of yet.
"I kept people away. I never let anybody get too close. Until you."
44 Chapters just didn't really give me enough time to be "team Knight" like I kept seeing people say but Skin was enough to make me turn a complete 180. Full blow Knight train. I'll be the caboose leader, IDGAF.
And you know what? I think Knight gave 15 year old BB just what she needed. And it gave me just what I needed. Nostalgia back to my very own Knight. 15 year old me might not have had her nipples pierced but she was crazy and she was crazy about a Knight.
"You make me fucking weak and I make you way too fucking hard."
Who would have thought you could find angst and love in a story based on true events? Who knew you'd connect to it? Either way, I did. And I'm glad that I did. Now I'm ready for Harley. I'm eternally thankful for the books that we will receive on these men. Because living vicariously through BB is a fun and wacky ride that I'm not ready to get off of yet.
February 5, 2017
There is something about authors who refuse to walk on eggshells for anyone. SKIN was unapologetically raw and real. I was so absorbed in this book, I ignored all my mom/adult/wife responsibilities until I finished this book. I related so much to teenage Punk and my heart ached for Knight. This book deals with some topics that many want to turn a blind eye to, but BB said "fuck that" and wrote her heart out into a phenomenal book that I can't stop thinking about. I appreciate that she didn't water it down for the sake of small minded people. She was honest and she was real. This first spin off of 44 chapters about 4 men was straight gold for me. I can't wait for the world to know how amazing BB's writing is.
April 17, 2021
I love BB's writing style. And I love Knight.
March 22, 2017
I've thought long and hard about posting a review for this book because I'm not in the majority that has glowing review of it. Then I remembered thats never stopped me before and now here we are. I'm sure I'll end up flamed, but . . . Eh. Whatever.
Let me start by saying, the writing in this book was fine, the book flowed, and was an easy read. The author obviously knows how to craft a story and quality was never my problem with this book.
My first problem is that this takes place when the main female character is 15 and contains what feels like gratuitous graphic sex. At 15, you are legally to young to consent. I get teens do stupid shit. I was a teen once and did ALL the stupid shit. Many years later, I'm able to look back from a mother's perspective and see how foolish it really was.
My second problem with this book was the racist undertones, such as the whole, "I can't be racist because my best friend is half-black" bullshit that's repeated througout the story). Actions vs words. Anytime you have to preface it/justify it, you probably want to reevaluate.
Then, we are told Knight is not racist but hates everyone equally, yet he is a (again) romanticised fictionalization of someone who was a supporter of white supremacy, enough so that it was prominently tattooed on his body according to other readers on other message boards/forums. Add that to the red laces visual (which usually means you have "spilled blood for the cause" in most skinhead subgroups) and it was a wrap for me.
In reality, it's really, probably all my fault that this book rated so low with me. Had I paid more attention to the blurb and cover when I picked the book up, I probably would have put it right back down and never thought twice, but I was devouring book after book when I came across this one and jumped in blind. For that reason, I'm adding another star to what old have been a one star from me otherwise.
Let me start by saying, the writing in this book was fine, the book flowed, and was an easy read. The author obviously knows how to craft a story and quality was never my problem with this book.
My first problem is that this takes place when the main female character is 15 and contains what feels like gratuitous graphic sex. At 15, you are legally to young to consent. I get teens do stupid shit. I was a teen once and did ALL the stupid shit. Many years later, I'm able to look back from a mother's perspective and see how foolish it really was.
My second problem with this book was the racist undertones, such as the whole, "I can't be racist because my best friend is half-black" bullshit that's repeated througout the story). Actions vs words. Anytime you have to preface it/justify it, you probably want to reevaluate.
Then, we are told Knight is not racist but hates everyone equally, yet he is a (again) romanticised fictionalization of someone who was a supporter of white supremacy, enough so that it was prominently tattooed on his body according to other readers on other message boards/forums. Add that to the red laces visual (which usually means you have "spilled blood for the cause" in most skinhead subgroups) and it was a wrap for me.
In reality, it's really, probably all my fault that this book rated so low with me. Had I paid more attention to the blurb and cover when I picked the book up, I probably would have put it right back down and never thought twice, but I was devouring book after book when I came across this one and jumped in blind. For that reason, I'm adding another star to what old have been a one star from me otherwise.
July 20, 2020
4.5 Stars
Oh my goodness, this book! This crazy ar$e book! There was humor, wild and shocking antics, moments of subtle poignancy, and then BAM! Gut-wrenching blows! In atmosphere, it was kind of all over the place, but it had me hooked from the start. And to think, this was less than a year in this heroine's life.
Previous reader feedback prompted me to start with Skin, rather than its predecessor (44 Chapters About 4 Men,) since the 44 Chapters Series is expanded stories based on the former. I know that there were fictional elements mixed in with the non-fiction in this story, but I am impressed with the honesty and authentic portrayal. The subtle build of body image issues struck a chord and was handled beautifully. With the female being 15/16 years old in the book, I believed the conflict between character strength and insecurities that she struggled with.
As for the romantic elements, what an insane ride. Knight was something else. At times, I was grateful for his presence when he saved BB from immature and dangerous situations, but was then equally freaked when he displayed his own brand of crazy dangerous.
Ironically, if this story was solely fiction, I would have found many of the situations in the story over the top or sensationalized for effect. And, maybe, they were. Still, knowing that at least some of the story is grounded in truth, I found it fascinating. It definitely brought a different feel to the reading experience and I'm excited to continue on.
October 11, 2018
I will probably butcher up this review. Sorry BB. That's always happens when I love book too much..I just can't handle it.
There was a woman named BB who after reading a lot of books decided " well I know these characters, I dated these guys, I should write about them" and somehow that journal morphs into books, books about her life, guys she dated and finally book about her husband.
And she did amazing job writing this book.
Effortless read!!
Secretly I'm all kind of inspired. Like I could do it too.
Everything stars with Skin...and there are three more books and finally there is book four which comes out next week. So last chance .. now it is time to come on this amazing bandwagon. And binge read it.
Because this book will make you crave for more.
After that you could read her memoir book about what really happened 44 Chapters About 4 Men because this series has real people and events from her life but still is a bit embellished.
And that is just my catnip. Because I'm nothing if not curious.
You know how you always think well what really happened in this book to an author..and now you have author admitting she wrote about herself. I mean come on....Of course I have to read it.
There is nothing I didn't love about this book. Only things I loved and things I loved more.
- Writing: This is very honest, real, raw, heartbreaking and funny book
- Characters : Likable, relatable, perfect presentation of all the feelings they trying to convey
- Plot line: fluent and engaging
- Setting: accurate description, you really get the feel of the 90's
- Playlist: LOVE IT
Even if in the book there is a lot of funny moments this book deals with a lot of serious issues as racism, suicide, anorexia, teen pregnancy and drugs. But it is written in non preachy way...we all have our opinion on those things..author doesn't pushes anything on the reader it just is...
"It’s better to feel pain, than nothing at all
The opposite of love is indifference
So pay attention now
I’m standing on your porch screamin' out
And I won’t leave until you come downstairs...."
Stubborn Love- Lumineers
Thank you Amber for reminding me of this series. And finally pushing me to read it.
BB Easton let's hang out.
May 31, 2018
5 stars! This book was awesome. BB Easton is now one of my new favorite authors and Skin is definitely one of my new favorite books.
Skin is a story based on the author’s real life. We meet a 15-year-old BB and a scary 18-year-old Skinhead named Knight. Their relationship is intense and volatile and super twisted at times. She says in the dedication and prologue that Knight is real and that the story is almost 100% accurate. The story deals with sex, drugs, stereotypes, racism, anorexia, teenage pregnancy, and first loves. The thing that I love most about this book though is Knight. He is one of my favorite types of characters – the misunderstood loner. He completely broke my heart. BB describes him as being like a pit bull – Vicious, Loyal, Misunderstood. Totally spot on! I haven’t read 44 Chapters yet because I don’t want to know what happens to Knight until I read this whole series, but based on the dedication at the beginning of the book, I’m worried things don’t end well for him. I really hope I’m wrong!
I only read YA/NA every once in a while because so often the story and characters are totally unbelievable. Many popular YA romance novels have super rich kids with adult-like relationships and story lines that are totally extreme. Even though the Punk movement wasn’t my thing, this book still made me relate and remember so much of high school.
What really made this book so addictive though was BB’s writing style. It was so fresh and UNIQUE! Unique being the operative word. After reading this book, I scoured the Internet for articles and interviews with BB, that’s how much I loved this book and her writing! I don’t do that often. I have immediately started in on the 2nd book, Speed, but had to write this review before I get too far in.
If you are in a book rut at all and feel like all your books are blurring together, get yourself some BB Easton! Fresh, unique and totally memorable.
Skin is a story based on the author’s real life. We meet a 15-year-old BB and a scary 18-year-old Skinhead named Knight. Their relationship is intense and volatile and super twisted at times. She says in the dedication and prologue that Knight is real and that the story is almost 100% accurate. The story deals with sex, drugs, stereotypes, racism, anorexia, teenage pregnancy, and first loves. The thing that I love most about this book though is Knight. He is one of my favorite types of characters – the misunderstood loner. He completely broke my heart. BB describes him as being like a pit bull – Vicious, Loyal, Misunderstood. Totally spot on! I haven’t read 44 Chapters yet because I don’t want to know what happens to Knight until I read this whole series, but based on the dedication at the beginning of the book, I’m worried things don’t end well for him. I really hope I’m wrong!
I only read YA/NA every once in a while because so often the story and characters are totally unbelievable. Many popular YA romance novels have super rich kids with adult-like relationships and story lines that are totally extreme. Even though the Punk movement wasn’t my thing, this book still made me relate and remember so much of high school.
What really made this book so addictive though was BB’s writing style. It was so fresh and UNIQUE! Unique being the operative word. After reading this book, I scoured the Internet for articles and interviews with BB, that’s how much I loved this book and her writing! I don’t do that often. I have immediately started in on the 2nd book, Speed, but had to write this review before I get too far in.
If you are in a book rut at all and feel like all your books are blurring together, get yourself some BB Easton! Fresh, unique and totally memorable.
February 15, 2017
I'm not crying, you're crying
I honestly don't know if I have words for this book. It's rare and raw and beautiful. It's real. I am still crying for the broken boy who truly SAW the world that was BB. I'm crying for BB who loves unconditionally in her own fierce and inspiring way. I felt this book in my bones and I've never been so happy. Or sad. Or hurt. Or lost in the best friggin way. This weird jumble inside me is both hopeful and painfully battered. I don't think a book has ever made me feel like this, and I'm beyond grateful that BB had the guts to write it. Thank you from the bottom of my wrecked soul for sharing Knight with us, BB. Thank you for sharing you.
I honestly don't know if I have words for this book. It's rare and raw and beautiful. It's real. I am still crying for the broken boy who truly SAW the world that was BB. I'm crying for BB who loves unconditionally in her own fierce and inspiring way. I felt this book in my bones and I've never been so happy. Or sad. Or hurt. Or lost in the best friggin way. This weird jumble inside me is both hopeful and painfully battered. I don't think a book has ever made me feel like this, and I'm beyond grateful that BB had the guts to write it. Thank you from the bottom of my wrecked soul for sharing Knight with us, BB. Thank you for sharing you.
February 11, 2017
I am probably in this alone since this book had high ratings. But I just did not like the characters. I thought BB was annoying and mean and that Knight could do a lot better. I also tried really hard not to make a big stinker on how the author portrayed Hispanics. I caught myself getting a little upset on just this issue. I don't know why it bothered me. This book was Not for me. It was a struggles all the way to the end.
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