The Body Painter by Pepper Winters

Pepper Winter’s The Body Painter tells a story of two people who were always meant to be together but are torn apart by difficult circumstances and secrets. I can’t tell you how long I’ve been waiting for this book. I enjoyed the story, even when the characters made me want to pull my hair out. I’m sure that fans of dark romance will most likely devour this book. The concept was unique and one that I have never seen done before. You don’t get a lot of stories where the hero is a tortured artist! Although I did like the book, there were parts of it that frustrated me.

"No words could describe our strange bond. No common sense could understand why I felt the way I did about him but wanted him to use me so completely."

Olin and Gil’s relationship felt off at times even though Pepper did a great job building up their past. I had a hard time understanding Gil’s motives and his treatment of Olin. He claims that he acted a certain way because he wanted to protect her and yet his cruel words and actions say otherwise. Yes, there were times I wanted to slap or punch him! I wanted Olin to stand up for herself and leave Gil. No woman deserved to be treated this way, soulmates or not. Their first time together was heartbreaking and I didn’t think it was romantic, which made me sad. Olin’s determination to save Gil, while admirable, confused me because she was barely keeping afloat in her own personal life.

I smiled even though my heart felt like shattering. "We're friends, too... even if you'd rather not be."

"You can't be friends with someone who doesn't deserve it... I don't deserve you, O. And you don't deserve to suffer. You need to leave. You need to obey because it's the only way I can keep you safe. Leave and never come back.... Promise me.

Nevertheless, there is no denying Olin and Gil both have an interesting and truly tragic backstory. I would love to know more about Olin’s dreams and her desires after her fatal accident. I want to see her move on and be happy—whether it's with Gil or not. I want to see Gil himself be happy instead of tortured and cruel. Gil is an intense and deeply dark character who is hiding some major secrets. I’m definitely interested in seeing how this story will end.

* This ARC was generously provided Pepper Winters for an honest review. * 

Rating: ★★★★☆