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Stormy Ink: TK Tattoo Studio
Art graduate Jade O’Connor is on a mission. She needs an intricate tattoo—something elegant and beautiful—to cover her perceived imperfections. Her search for the right artist brings her to a Hawke’s Bay tattoo studio and the surprising discovery that her crush from eight years ago owns it.
Quiet, confident tattoo artist Taylor King is proud of her business and the life she’s built for herself. When Jade walks into her store, a spark ignites that goes beyond skin deep.
As the women get swept up in each other, disaster strikes. Can Jade and Taylor’s newfound relationship survive the pressure of being forced into each other’s space? Is it all too much? Or is it true there are some things you can only learn in the darkness of a storm?
A lesbian romance about love, resilience, and weathering the worst life throws at us.
Quiet, confident tattoo artist Taylor King is proud of her business and the life she’s built for herself. When Jade walks into her store, a spark ignites that goes beyond skin deep.
As the women get swept up in each other, disaster strikes. Can Jade and Taylor’s newfound relationship survive the pressure of being forced into each other’s space? Is it all too much? Or is it true there are some things you can only learn in the darkness of a storm?
A lesbian romance about love, resilience, and weathering the worst life throws at us.
Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2023
37 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Diana Jayne
3 books24 followersDiana Jayne resides in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. Her book What Memories Are Made Of is set against the stunning backdrop of Napier, NZ.
Napier is a coastal city on New Zealand's North Island, set amid the renowned wine-producing region of Hawke's Bay. Rebuilt after a 1931 earthquake, the city is known for art deco landmarks.
As a voracious reader of women loving women fiction, she hopes her story finds a loving home in the genre.
Napier is a coastal city on New Zealand's North Island, set amid the renowned wine-producing region of Hawke's Bay. Rebuilt after a 1931 earthquake, the city is known for art deco landmarks.
As a voracious reader of women loving women fiction, she hopes her story finds a loving home in the genre.
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January 4, 2024Loved it! **snort**
Of course, I did! But for non-biased opinions, check out what other reviewers have to say.
UNIVERSAL BUY LINK - https://books2read.com/u/bajrBq
Amazon US - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM5PLY4Z/ref
Amazon UK -
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CM5PLY4...
Amazon AUD - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CM5PLY...
Smashwords - https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Blurb!!
Art graduate Jade O’Connor is on a mission. She needs an intricate tattoo—something elegant and beautiful—to cover her perceived imperfections. Her search for the right artist brings her to a Hawke’s Bay tattoo studio and the surprising discovery that her crush from eight years ago owns it.
Quiet, confident tattoo artist Taylor King is proud of her business and the life she’s built for herself. When Jade walks into her store, a spark ignites that goes beyond skin deep.
As the women get swept up in each other, disaster strikes. Can Jade and Taylor’s newfound relationship survive the pressure of being forced into each other’s space? Is it all too much? Or is it true there are some things you can only learn in the darkness of a storm?
A lesbian romance about love, resilience, and weathering the worst life throws at us.
Of course, I did! But for non-biased opinions, check out what other reviewers have to say.
UNIVERSAL BUY LINK - https://books2read.com/u/bajrBq
Amazon US - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM5PLY4Z/ref
Amazon UK -
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CM5PLY4...
Amazon AUD - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0CM5PLY...
Smashwords - https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Blurb!!
Art graduate Jade O’Connor is on a mission. She needs an intricate tattoo—something elegant and beautiful—to cover her perceived imperfections. Her search for the right artist brings her to a Hawke’s Bay tattoo studio and the surprising discovery that her crush from eight years ago owns it.
Quiet, confident tattoo artist Taylor King is proud of her business and the life she’s built for herself. When Jade walks into her store, a spark ignites that goes beyond skin deep.
As the women get swept up in each other, disaster strikes. Can Jade and Taylor’s newfound relationship survive the pressure of being forced into each other’s space? Is it all too much? Or is it true there are some things you can only learn in the darkness of a storm?
A lesbian romance about love, resilience, and weathering the worst life throws at us.
November 19, 2023
This Diana Jayne novel was packed with emotions. The compelling story was laced with love, excitement, humor, fear and loads of personality. The book contained some memorable side characters, but the main ones were Taylor, who owned TK Tattoo Studio, and the beautiful Jade.
Jade came into the studio to request that Taylor do a large tattoo on her body that would require 20-30 hours to complete. It was the first time they’d seen each other in eight years when they had a design class together. The recognition and immediate chemistry set them into a relationship.
Everything in the story shifted when Cyclone Gabrielle made her way to New Zealand. Taylor and Jade rode out the storm at Jade’s old rental farmhouse outside of Napier.
I thought the author just did an amazingly skillful job with how she well she portrayed the frightening experiences of that night. The events were very intense and as a reader, I could literally feel my heart beating vigorously. I began holding my breath in fear for their survival as well as for the animals.
The aftermath was also well portrayed and my heart goes out to the people affected by this cyclone. I could tell from the emotions of the author how important it was for her to tell this story.
Jade came into the studio to request that Taylor do a large tattoo on her body that would require 20-30 hours to complete. It was the first time they’d seen each other in eight years when they had a design class together. The recognition and immediate chemistry set them into a relationship.
Everything in the story shifted when Cyclone Gabrielle made her way to New Zealand. Taylor and Jade rode out the storm at Jade’s old rental farmhouse outside of Napier.
I thought the author just did an amazingly skillful job with how she well she portrayed the frightening experiences of that night. The events were very intense and as a reader, I could literally feel my heart beating vigorously. I began holding my breath in fear for their survival as well as for the animals.
The aftermath was also well portrayed and my heart goes out to the people affected by this cyclone. I could tell from the emotions of the author how important it was for her to tell this story.
December 4, 2023
Loved this so much, made me very homesick but was a lovely romance. Aotearoa will always be home, I had to laugh at the description of Invercargill forgetting that's it's not a place everyone knows well.
November 25, 2023
This is a beautiful book by Diana Jayne. There was no angst between the MCs, which was refreshing as there were emotional surges and heart-pounding circumstances that were more than enough. The chemistry is instantaneous and vibrant. I enjoyed this book so much that I had a hard time putting it down. I will be on the lookout for more in the future.
December 24, 2023
I adore the ladies in this book, both creative in their own way. (About support characters: I’m looking forward to a book about the colleague and niece 😇)
When I was halfway enjoying this lovely paced romance my (repeating) childhood-nightmare appeared on the pages of this book. Not wanting to post any spoilers I can only share that Diana Jayne can write one hell of a frightening scene! Wauw!
No worries, happy ending is still in place.
What sticked in my mind after reading this book: Shitty things happen to good people. And although the outcome is not the same as when you would be able to choose and plan, it can be just as good or better if you trust to embrace it.
When I was halfway enjoying this lovely paced romance my (repeating) childhood-nightmare appeared on the pages of this book. Not wanting to post any spoilers I can only share that Diana Jayne can write one hell of a frightening scene! Wauw!
No worries, happy ending is still in place.
What sticked in my mind after reading this book: Shitty things happen to good people. And although the outcome is not the same as when you would be able to choose and plan, it can be just as good or better if you trust to embrace it.
September 13, 2024
A sweet romance with only a bit of angst. Lush scenery and warm friends support the story. Not as sizzling as DJ's other stories, but just as enjoyable.
January 1, 2024
A new romance from the author of Who Am I? (a lesbian romance about love, family, and parenthood), Stormy Ink is what I’d best describe as a romantic drama about the things that are most important in life. At its brightest, it’s sweet and comforting, but at its darkest – a pivotal acknowledgment of real events – it’s also heart-wrenching and terrifying.
Let’s start with the brightest. Taylor is a young tattoo artist who has opened her own shop, which she runs with her friend and fellow artist, Natalie. The friendship between them is delightful, a source of constant amusement no matter how much Natalie sometimes tests her patience. Jade is a young artist who, having dealt with some weight loss and body image issues, comes to Taylor – an old classmate – for a tattoo to mark her sort of rebirth. There’s recognition of a shared past there, and what may be some definite sparks, but neither woman is sure what’s friendliness versus flirting, especially since Taylor doesn’t get involved with clients.
Needless to say, both women are in fact flirting, which leads into a gradual progression from acquaintance, to friendship, to infatuation, to romance. This is not a lust-at-first sight kind of story where the characters end up in bed by the second or third chapter, but a love story that builds a relationship first. Less will they/won’t they tension and more when will they anticipation, it’s a happy tale.
Except when it isn’t.
And that brings us to the darkest. Diana Jayne takes the bold step of incorporating Cyclone Gabrielle into the story, a real-world natural disaster that will be very fresh in some reader’s minds. It’s a sad, violent, tragic eruption of weather, and the story captures it in all its terror – flooding, destruction, the loss of life, being cut off from civilization, feeling helpless, and feeling hopeless. Where all romances have a crisis (or two) to test the relationship, it’s usually some external force that leads the partners to question their love. Here, it’s an external crisis that forces them together, and in doing so leads them to question what’s real and what’s convenient.
That said, darkness is only a part of Stormy Ink, and not what defines it. This is a wonderful romance with a fabulous cast of characters, humor, heart, and (ultimately) hope. Definitely worth the read.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2023/...
Let’s start with the brightest. Taylor is a young tattoo artist who has opened her own shop, which she runs with her friend and fellow artist, Natalie. The friendship between them is delightful, a source of constant amusement no matter how much Natalie sometimes tests her patience. Jade is a young artist who, having dealt with some weight loss and body image issues, comes to Taylor – an old classmate – for a tattoo to mark her sort of rebirth. There’s recognition of a shared past there, and what may be some definite sparks, but neither woman is sure what’s friendliness versus flirting, especially since Taylor doesn’t get involved with clients.
Needless to say, both women are in fact flirting, which leads into a gradual progression from acquaintance, to friendship, to infatuation, to romance. This is not a lust-at-first sight kind of story where the characters end up in bed by the second or third chapter, but a love story that builds a relationship first. Less will they/won’t they tension and more when will they anticipation, it’s a happy tale.
Except when it isn’t.
And that brings us to the darkest. Diana Jayne takes the bold step of incorporating Cyclone Gabrielle into the story, a real-world natural disaster that will be very fresh in some reader’s minds. It’s a sad, violent, tragic eruption of weather, and the story captures it in all its terror – flooding, destruction, the loss of life, being cut off from civilization, feeling helpless, and feeling hopeless. Where all romances have a crisis (or two) to test the relationship, it’s usually some external force that leads the partners to question their love. Here, it’s an external crisis that forces them together, and in doing so leads them to question what’s real and what’s convenient.
That said, darkness is only a part of Stormy Ink, and not what defines it. This is a wonderful romance with a fabulous cast of characters, humor, heart, and (ultimately) hope. Definitely worth the read.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2023/...
December 6, 2023
Very much Donna Jay light slow and I dnf'd at around 30%.
January 4, 2024
Stormy Ink by Diana Jayne (Donna Jay) is a sweet, beautiful romance filled with warmth and comfort.
I read this book at exactly the right time. I've been in a bit of a slump recently and reading Stormy Ink lifted me and gave me a warm hug.
Taylor and Jade are one of those couples that make you believe in love. They’re lovely people who know what they want and are not afraid to go get it. I could tell from the minute they met that they were meant for each other.
This book is one of those easy reads. Now that’s not to say it doesn’t have depth, it does. It has a great storyline woven in with the romance but because these characters are so sure of each other and themselves (my god, confidence is sexy), and communicate openly it makes what could have been an anguish-filled story into a dreamy one. There is no third-act breakup (so if you're doing Jae’s bingo then this fills that square) because there didn’t need to be, with this couple, a conversation and being honest was all that was needed.
There are messages of solid friendships, accepting people for who they are, and body positivity (which is something I love this author for). It really is a beautiful feel-good book.
Taylor and Jade go through a terrifying event together and survive. This brings them closer much faster, so you get a lot of on-page time of them being a couple and how they navigate the aftermath. Although I love a slow burn, there is something about getting to see a couple grow together romantically that when it's done right, makes my heart sing.
I couldn’t put it down and read it in a day. What a way to start my reading journey for 2024.
Arc received from the author.
I read this book at exactly the right time. I've been in a bit of a slump recently and reading Stormy Ink lifted me and gave me a warm hug.
Taylor and Jade are one of those couples that make you believe in love. They’re lovely people who know what they want and are not afraid to go get it. I could tell from the minute they met that they were meant for each other.
This book is one of those easy reads. Now that’s not to say it doesn’t have depth, it does. It has a great storyline woven in with the romance but because these characters are so sure of each other and themselves (my god, confidence is sexy), and communicate openly it makes what could have been an anguish-filled story into a dreamy one. There is no third-act breakup (so if you're doing Jae’s bingo then this fills that square) because there didn’t need to be, with this couple, a conversation and being honest was all that was needed.
There are messages of solid friendships, accepting people for who they are, and body positivity (which is something I love this author for). It really is a beautiful feel-good book.
Taylor and Jade go through a terrifying event together and survive. This brings them closer much faster, so you get a lot of on-page time of them being a couple and how they navigate the aftermath. Although I love a slow burn, there is something about getting to see a couple grow together romantically that when it's done right, makes my heart sing.
I couldn’t put it down and read it in a day. What a way to start my reading journey for 2024.
Arc received from the author.
December 1, 2023
Emotional
Wow. This book is fantastic. It is so emotional. It really highlights the devastation that cyclone did. Those poor people having to live through that. I can’t begin to imagine.
I liked both the MC’S and their furry pets.
The story also touches on body image which is transformed into confidence.
I’d definitely recommend this book
Wow. This book is fantastic. It is so emotional. It really highlights the devastation that cyclone did. Those poor people having to live through that. I can’t begin to imagine.
I liked both the MC’S and their furry pets.
The story also touches on body image which is transformed into confidence.
I’d definitely recommend this book
March 20, 2024
Lovely Story
I love that their relationship came together over a tattoo, since I love my own ink. That coupled with the tragedy of the storm made for quite a tale.
I love that their relationship came together over a tattoo, since I love my own ink. That coupled with the tragedy of the storm made for quite a tale.
December 2, 2023
Stormy Ink by Diana Jayne
If you are wanting to read a book that gives you the warm, wonderful feels, this book is the one. Diana Jayne writes likeable and believable characters and you are hooked from the first page.
Taylor is a tattooist who owns her own tattoo studio in Hawkes Bay NZ. Little does she know that her next client will be a blast from the past. Jade, an artist, requests to have a massive tattoo on her body. The time that the tattoo will take to do is well over 24 hours broken in to a few sessions to complete. Meeting each other after such a long time doesn’t take away the instant connection they have and which develops over each session as the weeks pass.
As with all good novels, it’s not only the main characters who make the book, but the secondary ones as well. Taylor’s fellow tattoo artist Natalie is a hoot.
The other MC is Cyclone Gabrielle. When she makes her entrance, lets’ just say that some of the most gut-wrenching parts of this novel occur. For those who do not know, in February 2023 New Zealand suffered some of the most catastrophic weather which caused, loss of life, flooding and enormous damage in some areas of the country. Diana Jayne has taken pains to ensure that the reader is in no doubt how terrifying it must have been to live through it.
I really enjoyed reading this novel. As I have said above this book has all the emotions woven through a wonderful novel.
Do yourselves a favour and go and get a copy of this book, I bet you will not be disappointed.
I was given an ARC copy for a fair and honest review.
If you are wanting to read a book that gives you the warm, wonderful feels, this book is the one. Diana Jayne writes likeable and believable characters and you are hooked from the first page.
Taylor is a tattooist who owns her own tattoo studio in Hawkes Bay NZ. Little does she know that her next client will be a blast from the past. Jade, an artist, requests to have a massive tattoo on her body. The time that the tattoo will take to do is well over 24 hours broken in to a few sessions to complete. Meeting each other after such a long time doesn’t take away the instant connection they have and which develops over each session as the weeks pass.
As with all good novels, it’s not only the main characters who make the book, but the secondary ones as well. Taylor’s fellow tattoo artist Natalie is a hoot.
The other MC is Cyclone Gabrielle. When she makes her entrance, lets’ just say that some of the most gut-wrenching parts of this novel occur. For those who do not know, in February 2023 New Zealand suffered some of the most catastrophic weather which caused, loss of life, flooding and enormous damage in some areas of the country. Diana Jayne has taken pains to ensure that the reader is in no doubt how terrifying it must have been to live through it.
I really enjoyed reading this novel. As I have said above this book has all the emotions woven through a wonderful novel.
Do yourselves a favour and go and get a copy of this book, I bet you will not be disappointed.
I was given an ARC copy for a fair and honest review.
December 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Despite some of the heavier themes and plotlines in the story, it is a fun read. I really loved all of the characters. Natalie is probably my favorite. She's brash and bold, yet still a softie sweetheart. I really hope we get her story next...maybe with Abby? Who knows.
The romance between Taylor and Jade starts off really sweet, and just keeps getting better. Taylor may have her rules about even flirting with clients, but she very quickly finds herself throwing them out the window when Jade walks in. I loved both of their stories, and how they opened up to each other over Jade's tattoo sessions. They are the most adorable couple around, and everything is going great until natural disaster strikes. It forces a change in their living arrangements. Even that they get through with great communication and empathy. I really enjoyed getting to watch their love blossom.
There is no third act breakup. Conflict is provided by the natural disaster that throws everyone's lives into disarray. The only complaint I could have is that I could have used more time with the MCs. They were such a delight to read. Again...really hoping for a Natalie/Abby book next. *cough cough, wink wink*
The romance between Taylor and Jade starts off really sweet, and just keeps getting better. Taylor may have her rules about even flirting with clients, but she very quickly finds herself throwing them out the window when Jade walks in. I loved both of their stories, and how they opened up to each other over Jade's tattoo sessions. They are the most adorable couple around, and everything is going great until natural disaster strikes. It forces a change in their living arrangements. Even that they get through with great communication and empathy. I really enjoyed getting to watch their love blossom.
There is no third act breakup. Conflict is provided by the natural disaster that throws everyone's lives into disarray. The only complaint I could have is that I could have used more time with the MCs. They were such a delight to read. Again...really hoping for a Natalie/Abby book next. *cough cough, wink wink*
November 28, 2023
So this is kind of a tale of two halves.
The first half of the story was nice, but too easy. Everything just kind of fell into place with no real hurdles or obstacles, and I was starting to wonder why I was reading about two people meeting and everything just going swimmingly well. I mean, okay, but…?
Well, then there’s the second half, where the storm strikes and turns everything around. Suddenly there was a story here! To me, as awful as some of the events were, having real problems to work through saved the book. I mean, the characters were lovely throughout — though let’s be honest I was rooting more than a little bit for Nat and Abby. (Except, I never caught how old Abby was, so maybe not?) I just needed the drama that the storm provided, so I might have wished for that to arrive a little sooner, or for Taylor to stick to her rules a little longer, or something to give the first half a bit more meat.
In the end, I’m going with a 4 for the first half, a 5 for the second half, and a 6 for the epilogue, and mashing that all together and rounding up. Hopefully apprentice plumbers are adults and we get a Nat & Abby story down the road. :)
The first half of the story was nice, but too easy. Everything just kind of fell into place with no real hurdles or obstacles, and I was starting to wonder why I was reading about two people meeting and everything just going swimmingly well. I mean, okay, but…?
Well, then there’s the second half, where the storm strikes and turns everything around. Suddenly there was a story here! To me, as awful as some of the events were, having real problems to work through saved the book. I mean, the characters were lovely throughout — though let’s be honest I was rooting more than a little bit for Nat and Abby. (Except, I never caught how old Abby was, so maybe not?) I just needed the drama that the storm provided, so I might have wished for that to arrive a little sooner, or for Taylor to stick to her rules a little longer, or something to give the first half a bit more meat.
In the end, I’m going with a 4 for the first half, a 5 for the second half, and a 6 for the epilogue, and mashing that all together and rounding up. Hopefully apprentice plumbers are adults and we get a Nat & Abby story down the road. :)
November 12, 2023
What a heartbreaking and beautiful story! From the perfect cover to the final sentence, this story will stir a myriad of emotions within you. Or at least it did for me. And I was struck by her dedication in the beginning. I really cannot say enough about this story and the emotions of the characters--and mine as well. The feeling that stays with me is hope.
Jayne masterfully developed not just her main characters—Taylor and Jade—but those of the supporting characters and a community as well. The chemistry between Taylor and Jade is palpable from the very beginning. I also loved learning more about the art of tattooing—uh, nope, no spoilers ever from me.
This is the third story by Diana Jayne, and she puts her heart into her stories. The dialogue is crisp and realistic, her descriptions set fire to my imagination, and each scene draws you forward with an urgency toward the next scene. I adore Taylor and Jade’s story; you will also. Trust me, you will not want to put it down, just sayin’. This is a must-have book!
Jayne masterfully developed not just her main characters—Taylor and Jade—but those of the supporting characters and a community as well. The chemistry between Taylor and Jade is palpable from the very beginning. I also loved learning more about the art of tattooing—uh, nope, no spoilers ever from me.
This is the third story by Diana Jayne, and she puts her heart into her stories. The dialogue is crisp and realistic, her descriptions set fire to my imagination, and each scene draws you forward with an urgency toward the next scene. I adore Taylor and Jade’s story; you will also. Trust me, you will not want to put it down, just sayin’. This is a must-have book!
November 16, 2023
I love a feel-good romance. And while this book put me through a whole gamut of emotions, including an appropriate amount of fear and dread, that is how I would ultimately describe it.
I enjoyed both main characters, Jade and Taylor, and liked what each brought to the story and their relationship and I found Natalie, Taylor's studio coworker, a hoot. There are lots of other good supporting characters that round out the story and make it interesting and the location of Hawke's Bay and the situation the characters find themselves in really added to the story.
One thing I love about Diana Jayne/Donna Jay's writing is that she has her main characters react to a situation, work through it and move on. And when the discomfort pops up again, they recognize it, process it and then let go. We don't have to agonize repeatedly and in depth over the same issue and as a reader I appreciate that.
At book's end I was feeling both hopeful and happy. Reading this was a great way to spend a Sunday and I can definitely see myself reading it again.
I enjoyed both main characters, Jade and Taylor, and liked what each brought to the story and their relationship and I found Natalie, Taylor's studio coworker, a hoot. There are lots of other good supporting characters that round out the story and make it interesting and the location of Hawke's Bay and the situation the characters find themselves in really added to the story.
One thing I love about Diana Jayne/Donna Jay's writing is that she has her main characters react to a situation, work through it and move on. And when the discomfort pops up again, they recognize it, process it and then let go. We don't have to agonize repeatedly and in depth over the same issue and as a reader I appreciate that.
At book's end I was feeling both hopeful and happy. Reading this was a great way to spend a Sunday and I can definitely see myself reading it again.
December 4, 2023
A look at life thru some very difficult moments.
I just can't say how much this story touched me. In a world were people who are
"different" find the world less accepting this story was delightful. A tattoo artist so ok in her skin and her talent made me love Taylor.
Jade knowing what she wanted for herself and body so much that she made steps toward good health, priceless self care. I have never wished to see a picture of anything in a book like I did the peacock tattoo she celebrated with for honoring her self. My mind could not see the full color enough. All of that did not prepare me for the journey of survival these two strong women would do together. The detail that Diane Jayne put into this event made you feel like you were right there with them. The very real experience a community and it folks go through during such a crisis was so well told. The artist in both women was a gift throughout the story. I really enjoyed this very special story and the strong women's journey.
I just can't say how much this story touched me. In a world were people who are
"different" find the world less accepting this story was delightful. A tattoo artist so ok in her skin and her talent made me love Taylor.
Jade knowing what she wanted for herself and body so much that she made steps toward good health, priceless self care. I have never wished to see a picture of anything in a book like I did the peacock tattoo she celebrated with for honoring her self. My mind could not see the full color enough. All of that did not prepare me for the journey of survival these two strong women would do together. The detail that Diane Jayne put into this event made you feel like you were right there with them. The very real experience a community and it folks go through during such a crisis was so well told. The artist in both women was a gift throughout the story. I really enjoyed this very special story and the strong women's journey.
March 21, 2024
An Emotional Story About Trusting and Healing ❤️🩹!
I loved this book! The two main characters Taylor and Jade each having their own vulnerabilities, reacquainted and discovering a flame for each other. Jade, already crushing on Taylor from school, decides to have a very large tattoo done that represents her new self. Taylor, excited to make her mark on Jade, realizes how beautiful and wanting Jade is but her rule of not getting with a client, is in the way of her thoughts. But as the two get to know each other again, Taylor realizes there is more to their relationship and knowing that Jade wants the same, makes a move. From there these two takes us on a trip through their lives. Until tragedy hits and suddenly their relationship is forced to another level before either was ready. A loving, heartbreaking and heartwarming story based on some real events. Diana Jayne has captured two purely lovely souls and a supportive community of family, friends and values. Thanks also for the pics and reminding us of how beautiful New Zealand is and the tragedy that occurred.
I loved this book! The two main characters Taylor and Jade each having their own vulnerabilities, reacquainted and discovering a flame for each other. Jade, already crushing on Taylor from school, decides to have a very large tattoo done that represents her new self. Taylor, excited to make her mark on Jade, realizes how beautiful and wanting Jade is but her rule of not getting with a client, is in the way of her thoughts. But as the two get to know each other again, Taylor realizes there is more to their relationship and knowing that Jade wants the same, makes a move. From there these two takes us on a trip through their lives. Until tragedy hits and suddenly their relationship is forced to another level before either was ready. A loving, heartbreaking and heartwarming story based on some real events. Diana Jayne has captured two purely lovely souls and a supportive community of family, friends and values. Thanks also for the pics and reminding us of how beautiful New Zealand is and the tragedy that occurred.
June 16, 2025
I absolutely loved this gorgeous F/F romance by Diana Jayne!
I had the pleasure of meeting this lovely author in person, which lead to me checking out her books- I was not disappointed.
This book surrounds Taylor and Jade, two Hawke’s Bay women with a mutual love for tattoos, and their budding romance. Just when things are looking up for them, they are stuck in the middle of Cyclone Gabrielle, which threatens to destroy everything they have worked for.
I thoroughly enjoyed the character development in this book, and the references to my home town- Napier! Very cool to be able to recognise different places referred to in this book. I also loved all the mentions of pets in this book- definitely helped to tug on the heart strings too ❤️🩹
Overall, a very cute read!
Please note- the cyclone in this book is a retelling of the 2023 Cyclone Gabrielle, and directly references true events.
I had the pleasure of meeting this lovely author in person, which lead to me checking out her books- I was not disappointed.
This book surrounds Taylor and Jade, two Hawke’s Bay women with a mutual love for tattoos, and their budding romance. Just when things are looking up for them, they are stuck in the middle of Cyclone Gabrielle, which threatens to destroy everything they have worked for.
I thoroughly enjoyed the character development in this book, and the references to my home town- Napier! Very cool to be able to recognise different places referred to in this book. I also loved all the mentions of pets in this book- definitely helped to tug on the heart strings too ❤️🩹
Overall, a very cute read!
Please note- the cyclone in this book is a retelling of the 2023 Cyclone Gabrielle, and directly references true events.
November 10, 2023
I think "Stormy Ink" has a really interesting theme with tattoos and their meanings!
Everything about tattoos and the masters who create them is sexy...at least for me ;)
At the beginning of this beautiful and gentle love story, between Taylor and Jade, everything is super sweet and Jade is a little shy. She will meet her crush again!
The two know each other from their student days and it's nice for both of them to see each other again!
Jade's tattoo choice and her decision to go to Taylor's studio brings them together in many ways.
A slow and steamy romance begins, that warms your heart and then the events that hit New Zealand tear your heart out. I hoped and feared with and for them!
I don't want to give any more away.
You should read it :) It's definitely exciting and has a great Happy Ending!
Thanks to Author Donna Jay for the ARC!
Everything about tattoos and the masters who create them is sexy...at least for me ;)
At the beginning of this beautiful and gentle love story, between Taylor and Jade, everything is super sweet and Jade is a little shy. She will meet her crush again!
The two know each other from their student days and it's nice for both of them to see each other again!
Jade's tattoo choice and her decision to go to Taylor's studio brings them together in many ways.
A slow and steamy romance begins, that warms your heart and then the events that hit New Zealand tear your heart out. I hoped and feared with and for them!
I don't want to give any more away.
You should read it :) It's definitely exciting and has a great Happy Ending!
Thanks to Author Donna Jay for the ARC!
November 25, 2023
Wow. Just, wow.
The reading of this book was an incredible experience. It was like nothing I’ve seen before.
These characters, in the early stages of their relationship, are thrown together into the life threatening weather conditions of the cyclone Gabrielle.
Amidst the chaos and devastation, they have each other, their cats and friends. With all the news coverage, I was holding back tears and wishing for the best.
I am probably not the only one hoping to read more about their life together in the future.
My favorite quote from this amazing, body positive story:
"Do you know when a woman is at her most beautiful?" Jade shook her head. "A woman is at her most beautiful when she’s in love with how she looks. And that’s got nothing to do with make-up and clothes."
The reading of this book was an incredible experience. It was like nothing I’ve seen before.
These characters, in the early stages of their relationship, are thrown together into the life threatening weather conditions of the cyclone Gabrielle.
Amidst the chaos and devastation, they have each other, their cats and friends. With all the news coverage, I was holding back tears and wishing for the best.
I am probably not the only one hoping to read more about their life together in the future.
My favorite quote from this amazing, body positive story:
"Do you know when a woman is at her most beautiful?" Jade shook her head. "A woman is at her most beautiful when she’s in love with how she looks. And that’s got nothing to do with make-up and clothes."
November 27, 2023
Stormy Ink by Diana Jayne is a contemporary romance set in New Zealand. TK Tattoo Studio is owned by small business owner Taylor King. Jade O’Connor is an artist specialising in pet portraits, living in a rural area with multiple pets of her own. She has scheduled an appointment with Taylor for a large tattoo. As a storm wreaks havoc, would life ever return to normality?
Both main characters have attributes that draw you into their world. Jade's character develops a lot, and her back story is quite interesting. The scene setting has you feeling the sense of friendship, community, and generosity for the victims of the storm. The book balances serious and light-hearted, with amusing and heart-warming moments and significant accomplishments.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
Both main characters have attributes that draw you into their world. Jade's character develops a lot, and her back story is quite interesting. The scene setting has you feeling the sense of friendship, community, and generosity for the victims of the storm. The book balances serious and light-hearted, with amusing and heart-warming moments and significant accomplishments.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
November 18, 2023
Taylor, a tattoo artist with her own shop, is hired by Jade, a woman who she went to art school with and had a crush on.
Jade, having lost weight and gotten into shape, wants a tattoo to cover her stretch marks. Taylor finds herself quite attracted to Jade, but is concerned about the ethics of dating a client.
They tentatively begin dating, and the meet the parents bits made me chuckle.
However, just as they are settling in, s tropical storm and huge flood hit.
(Having been through a serious flood once, the author describes it vividly and well.)
Good romance, good characters, not heavy on the sex. 4 1/2 stars out of 5.
Jade, having lost weight and gotten into shape, wants a tattoo to cover her stretch marks. Taylor finds herself quite attracted to Jade, but is concerned about the ethics of dating a client.
They tentatively begin dating, and the meet the parents bits made me chuckle.
However, just as they are settling in, s tropical storm and huge flood hit.
(Having been through a serious flood once, the author describes it vividly and well.)
Good romance, good characters, not heavy on the sex. 4 1/2 stars out of 5.
March 9, 2024
Dullsville 💤
I gripe about all the hackneyed tropes in this genre (fake relationship, second-chance, friends to lovers, forced proximity, etc.). But what if we took all that away. No pining. No twists. No dramatic tension at all. Just a plodding, one-note procession of events:
Jade goes to Taylor’s studio to get a tattoo.
They fall in love.
They survive a weather event.
And so on.
I kept reading for far too long in the mistaken hope that it would get better. It did not. I was bored to death, and finally gave up at the two-third mark.
And now I’m scratching my head at the 4.44 rating on Goodreads. I just don't get it.
I gripe about all the hackneyed tropes in this genre (fake relationship, second-chance, friends to lovers, forced proximity, etc.). But what if we took all that away. No pining. No twists. No dramatic tension at all. Just a plodding, one-note procession of events:
Jade goes to Taylor’s studio to get a tattoo.
They fall in love.
They survive a weather event.
And so on.
I kept reading for far too long in the mistaken hope that it would get better. It did not. I was bored to death, and finally gave up at the two-third mark.
And now I’m scratching my head at the 4.44 rating on Goodreads. I just don't get it.
November 16, 2023
This is a lovely story of tattoo artist Taylor and her client Jade. Jade has booked Taylor to do a large tattoo on her body which will require a number of sittings. They knew each other from school and there is mutual attraction. Taylor goes against her principles and asks Jade out. Their romance is just lovely, slow moving until disaster strikes and they are thrown together to survive. Well written and very good descriptions of the sights of New Zealand and tattoos. Great book, well worth the read.
November 23, 2023
I adore Diana Jayne's books. I always learn something new about the country of New Zealand. Taylor is a wonderful tattoo artist. Jade had gone to college with Taylor years ago. And they connect when Jade decides to treat herself to a magnificent tattoo. Diana has such a great writing style that just pulls me in. I always want to know more about the characters, and she delivers. Taylor and Jade's relationship fast fowards because of the destruction of Gabrielle. But I loved how respectful Taylor was of Jade's situation. I enjoyed this book and hope you will give it a try.
November 23, 2023
OMG what an amazing book. The characters are so natural and real and without giving anything away I must say that when devastation strikes its dealt with so well and drags you along at such a breakneck pace that you can't read quick enough to find out where things are going to end up. All emotions are covered in this story and described so realistically and sensitively. This is such a wonderful story that shows how you can deal with what life throws at you and come out the other side even stronger.
November 25, 2023
Well written, well paced, enjoyable. Main characters that are just totally likable, and balanced. Learning them through the love of their professions makes this story line work. Flows nicely throughout the whole book, with a satisfying ending. The details put into describing parts of each character’s job really stand out, adding to the story so well. The bits of color theory make my inner geek happy. If the hints about chemistry with some side characters comes about, count me in for book two please.
June 23, 2024
Hard to read at times, but beautiful
This was a beautiful story. Falling in love, gaining one's confidence, very uplifting.
So why was it hard to read? I lost everything in Hurricane Andrew in Florida, United States, in 1992. I cried during the description of the event in the aftermath. You cannot understand how horrible it is unless you've been through it. And I felt for these people, even though they were fictional characters in a book. Very well done.
This was a beautiful story. Falling in love, gaining one's confidence, very uplifting.
So why was it hard to read? I lost everything in Hurricane Andrew in Florida, United States, in 1992. I cried during the description of the event in the aftermath. You cannot understand how horrible it is unless you've been through it. And I felt for these people, even though they were fictional characters in a book. Very well done.
November 26, 2023
Love wins
Stormy Ink, Honestly it's a true love story. The chemistry between Jade and Taylor is beautiful only what you expect from Donna Jay,there is also sadness and loss. This book is truly beautiful as is the tattoo that is given to Jade by Taylor . Get this book and enjoy every minute
Stormy Ink, Honestly it's a true love story. The chemistry between Jade and Taylor is beautiful only what you expect from Donna Jay,there is also sadness and loss. This book is truly beautiful as is the tattoo that is given to Jade by Taylor . Get this book and enjoy every minute
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