Tattooed Hearts

by Darlene Rodriguez

Cassius Valencia is in his final year at Redwood University. His life is already complicated with school, work, and supporting his younger siblings. He has no time for love or relationships until his sister surprises him with a new roommate.

Living with a disability makes it hard to be independent, but Melody Watson is determined. Even if it means rooming with the hot tattoo artist she had a one-night stand with.

Cassius is more than aware their unforgettable night is a thing of the past, but her insecurities get under his skin, and he’s determined to change that.

Melody is kind, sweet, and deserves to see the beauty behind her scars.

And the more time he spends with her, the more he’s inclined to put his heart before his responsibilities and make her his.


Tattooed Hearts is a standalone, dual POV, roommates-to-lovers, slow-burn romance.

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 16, 2024

About the author

Darlene Rodriguez writes romances for the daydreamers. The one’s who stare out the window hoping to one day be loved and accepted. She might make you emotional, but she'll definitely make you smile.

Reviews

[Miranda Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moonlight and sunlight were just the best nicknames. I’ve been so busy with everything I haven’t had much time to just sit down and read. But I am glad I picked it back up. I did really enjoy this read.

[Stella · Rating 4 out of 5]

"She once called me sunlight and I understand why. The sun burns and brings the worst to light. But Melody is like the moonlight, carefully moving in, illuminating the best even in the dark. And I can’t seem to keep myself from smiling at her in return." - Sunlight (Cassius)

Tropes:
❤️ Roommates
❤️ Disability rep
❤️ Cinnamon roll
❤️ One night stand
❤️ HEA
❤️ Slow burn

Rating:
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
🌶️/5

*Possible spoilers ahead*

I was given the wonderful opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book and I devoured this book. It is such a cute and easy read. Less than 300 pages! I loved all of the representation in this book and while the side character (who says some not-nice things / feels a certain way) doesn't grow entirely, you do see at the end that he does support who he is related to quietly.

Melody has just transferred to Redwood University and is looking for a place to stay. She also has TARS (which means that she is missing the bone that goes from her wrist to her elbow) this means that she has short arms and people often stare or make fun of her. She is in school to pursue her writing and throughout the book, you get to see glimpses of her book as she uses what's happening in her life as inspiration. Cassius also goes to Redwood University, owns a tattoo shop, and works at a bar. He doesn't want to open up his heart again after his last girlfriend hurt him. But Cece has a different plan. Cece says that she needs a roommate and Melody sees that, but actually, she is looking for her brother so Cassius and Melody end up living together.

Cassius and Melody have the sweetest nicknames for each other. Cassius calls Melody "Moonlight" 🌙 and Melody calls Cassius "Sunlight" ☀️ These two have so much growth throughout this whole book. Melody feels like it's too good to be true and that nobody would want her "For once, I have people I can truly count on." - Moonlight (Melody) And Cassius doesn't want to be put in the position to get hurt again. Cassius does her hair, protects her, buys her books, gets a tattoo for her, and more. They both have such big hearts and want the best for each other and everyone around them.

“Tattooed Hearts” comes out on April 16th, 2024 and I highly recommend you pick this book up if you want a cute and easy read.. I hope you fall in love with this book and the people in it. They all deserve it. 🫶🏼

"Liking her is an understatement. There’s definitely more to it. Something grows in the depths of my chest, sprouting, and trying to make a home. Whatever it is, I know it has something to do with Melody. It’s always there, squirming when she’s around. Even if I can’t be with her, I can at least admit that." - Sunlight (Cassius)

[neus.dreamybooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melody has a disability and that, added to the fact that her ex went out with her for a bet, means she doesn't have much self-esteem.

Six months ago she visited the university she was planning to transfer to and on impulse she walked into a tattoo studio and there she met Cassius, or as she nicknamed him, Sunlight because of his eyes.

She didn't get the tattoo because she had doubts about her physical condition, but later she decided to go have a drink at a bar and there she met Cas. After a brief chat in which neither telephone numbers nor names were exchanged, they spent the night together as Moonlight and Sunlight.

Six months later (now), Cas can't get that girl out of his head, and he continues making sketches of the possible tattoo she could get if she ever returned to his studio.

Thanks to chance and a sister who is a bit of a matchmaker (Cece), Cas ends up with a new roommate (Melody), and he doesn't know how not to fall in love with her.

The only problem is that when they met again she didn't recognize him and his twin brother called her Moonlight, when she introduces himself so there is a possibility that she believes that she slept with his brother and doesn't know how to tell her the truth.

I loved how Cas is so open-minded and supportive. Mel, despite her low self-esteem, allows herself to be adopted by Cas's family&friends, with Cece in the lead.

Although there are misunderstandings and this is not one of my favorite tropes, in this story they are quite understandable due to the background that we learn about the different characters.

Let's say this book includes a FMC with a disability, trans side characters, and anxiety rep.

I'm looking forward to reading more books by this author since I really liked this one.

[Bells · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐️

Set against the backdrop of college life, “Tattooed Hearts” is a romance that immediately tugged at my heartstrings. Darlene delivers a narrative that’s not just a story, but a poignant reflection of the trials faced by those marginalized for their abilities and identities. As someone who struggles with SED and identifies as queer, I found the protagonist’s journey to be incredibly authentic and moving. The story isn’t just fiction; it’s a reflection of the real world, where people like us are often sidelined. Cassius, the heartthrob tattoo artist and owner of “Inked Hearts,” is the kind of character I can’t help but adore. And Melody, the creative writing student with those captivating moonlight eyes, is nothing short of a scarred goddess in Cass's eyes.

The side characters, especially Cece, are just as compelling, adding depth and color to the world of “Inked Hearts.” That first date between Cass and Melody was everything I’ve ever dreamed of. It was so vivid and touching that I had to put my Kindle down, laugh through my tears, and scream along to Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero” in the background. Cass’s efforts to show Melody her true beauty, inside and out, were beyond romantic. It’s the kind of love that knows no bounds, and Rodriguez captures it beautifully.

Darlene, I can’t thank you enough for this beautiful ARC. Your book is a beacon of hope and understanding for those who’ve felt invisible. It’s a powerful reminder that love transcends all barriers, and that art—much like love—comes in endless forms. “Tattooed Hearts” is a treasure I’ll hold close, a story that sings the praises of love’s infinite strength. 🖤

[Bianca Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m giving this book a 4 starts and here’s why!

It was really sweet and fluffy. Not super spicy at all but the tension was perfect. Like the talk of intimate relationships was the perfect amount where I wasn’t missing the actual act if that makes sense.

I loved how sweet Cassius was on Melody. I caught myself cheesing from ear to ear with his thoughts of her. My boy was SWEETTTT on her bad.

Melody definitely had trust issues but it wasn’t to a point where I was so annoyed with her because she continued to destroy herself. There was definitely some moments of not seeing her worth but it wasn’t super heavy where I was upset about it.

I love the representation in this piece. Disability AND Trans representation was sooooo present here and acceptance from family members and loved ones warmed my heart. However please check your trigger warnings because there is transphobia and talks of suicidal attempts.

Now for why I didn’t give it 5 stars.

I was severely confused in the beginning.. there was mention of an act and like it had happened and was written about but it wasn’t and I kept feeling like i missed something. Of course as the story went on it unfolds but for the first line 20% off the book I was hella confused lol but once we got the story it was good from there.

A super easy read. I could’ve finished it in a day if I wasn’t reading other things. Loved the romance and the sweetness and the banter .. super cute read!

[Amundeep Kaur · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so sweet and it’s a super fast read. The story doesn’t have a lot of spice but the tension between Cassius and Melody is marvelous. The beginning was a little confusing as there were mentions of a one night stand that didn’t line up with the beginning of the story but it was explained pretty early on in the book. Both of the main characters have issues from there past which they are working through. Cassius is a tattoo artist with a twin brother and a trans sister who shoulder too many responsibilities. Melody is living with a disability. She has low self esteem and there is a lot of negative self talk that occurs she also has a lot of trouble trusting others. I loved seeing there journey from being roommates and friends to slowly falling in love. The first date was so amazing and cute it’s something I’ve dreamed about especially them dancing in the rain. While I don’t generally when misunderstanding occurs in books there was some that occurred towards the end and I didn’t mind it because of how the characters were portrayed it seemed likely to occur. There are some sensitive topics that people should be prepared for when starting this book such as previous suicidal attempt and transphobia.

[Vanshita]

This book was a sweet read for me. Read it as an ARC and It was my first time reading a novel with a disability rep.
Cassius and Melody were too shattered puzzle pieces that perfectly matched one other. Between the charming nicknames and their cute little dates. They were adorable! Melody often feels uneasy because of her impairment, but Cassius efforts to show her true beauty and to make her feel complete and secure is commendable.
They both deserve all of the love and attention that they once believed they lacked. Even the character development of the side cast is amazing, and cece is one of my favourites among them. Darlene has written this book with many details about the battle and challenges around disability, among other delicate topics. It has demonstrated the kind of love and Friendship that can exist in any circumstances. When you feel accepted for who you are, love finds its own way.

Overall Tattooed Hearts is an excellent representation of how people are frequently marginalised due to their sexual orientation and disabilities and the reasons society should embrace them and accept them as equals.❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Chaotic Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tattooed Hearts was a change of pace for me, but when I read the blurb I knew I had to read it and o am so glad I did.

𝙏𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙤𝙚𝙙 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙨 is a contemporary romance. It’s a stand-alone, dual POV, roommates to lovers with disability rep.

It follows Cassius and Melody, whom after a one night stand become roommates. The story is full of personal growth and showing/proving to someone their worth, it’s a really sweet story.

The story was beautifully written and you can definitely feel the love Darlene poured into it.

The characters were really well written and I loved each of their personalities they all just created an enjoyable read.
There are some scenes/topics that might be sensitive for some reads so check the TW.

I love that with this book Darlene stepped out of societal norms and created a story to show the beauty in everyone, even those who struggle to see their own beauty whether being appearance, disability, race, status, etc, because at the end of the day we are all “Perfectly Imperfect”

[Lucie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. After reading this book, I could not put it down it was completed within a day, I can say I feel changed. Not only does this book promote diversity and inclusivity, it creates such a deep connection with whoever reads it. Both POVs of Cassius and Melody allow you to experience life in each of their shoes. Being able to explore life from Melody’s perspective with her disability and she conquers love and adversity is a privilege. As someone who was a young career and still raises their sibling I felt so seen through Cassius. This book takes you through so many emotions and it is so worth every word and page read. Darlene you have truly smashed this book, thank you for creating such an amazing story that inspires and gives a window to such a lesser known disability. It truly helps those of the disabled community know that you are worthy of love, you are sexy and cherished and you can be the main character not just the funny sidekick. You rock!

[Lemonnyyy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tattooed Hearts by Darlene Rodriguez

268 Pages

Kindle Ebook

Release date 16th April 2024!

Where do I start! This book... is incredible the representation alone is amazing, the characters are beautiful, I absolutely demolished this book in one afternoon.

Thank you to Darlene for writing a book with such care and attention to a multitude of disabilities and other sensitive subjects!

This story follows Cassius and Melody after a chance encounter six months prior they find themselves back in each others path, even if it is not an easy path to follow, both Cassius and Melody certainly fall hard and fast even with the obstacles they find in front of them.

I would recommend anyone to give this book a read and I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did! For fans of Slow Burn, One Night Stand, Disability Rep, Anxiety Rep, Roomates, Cinnamon Roll and a Hea!

[hunter · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Is that so hard to believe, that someone actually wants to get to know you and be friends?"

I’m not usually one for roommate tropes, but this story didn’t disappoint! I loved every page of this book, and Darlene absolutely knows how to tell a great story.

I’m so grateful to read a book where there’s disability and anxiety representation. As someone who is both disabled and has severe anxiety, it’s nice when I’m able to see that authors believe something like that deserves to be put in their stories.

I loved every single interaction Melody and Cassius had together. They’re absolute adorable MCs and I really liked seeing their relationship develop on each page. Melody absolutely deserves the entire world and more and I know with all my heart that Cassius will do anything in his power to give it to her. Even the side characters were extremely lovable and they never disappointed while on page!

"What does Melody like being called?” – “Definitely not daddy.”

This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, and tearing up from front to back. I haven’t read any of Darlene’s other books, but I definitely will now! I can’t wait until this is published so I can run on down to the store and buy a physical copy. ♡

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read an ARC copy!

[Alex Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5
Spice Rating: 🌶️/5

Tattooed Hearts is a beautiful story about Melody, a young college woman with a disability, taking a chanvre and overcoming her fears to take on college and her love life. The story also focuses on Cassius, who is balancing work, college, his family, and his dreams while staying afloat.

These two have undeniable romantic chemistry throughout the entire book, and I love that the author focuses on mental health, disability rep, and LGBTQIA+ representation. This book also heavily focuses on found family which is a favorite trope of mine.

There were some parts of this book that were a little redundant to me or where I got confused keeping up with names of some side characters mentioned, but overall I really enjoyed this story and the romance between Melody and Cassius!

[SIRIUSLY BOOKED · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tattooed Heart follows the story of Cassius, a tattoo artist who's in his final year of university and Melody who had just transferred to Redwood University.
As the oldest of three Cassius' main priority is to work and support his two younger siblings. He has no time for love.
Melody's life had been a challenge due to her disability but she's strong hearted and very determined so when she joins Redwood University she decides to move out of her parents house and live in campus.
When Cassius' sister, Cece surprises him with a new roommate it turns out it's none other than Melody.
I adore all the main characters of this book. Although I cannot directly relate to FMC disability I could relate to all of her emotions. Made me love this story even more.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassius and Melody’s story is a beautiful journey of roommates to lovers. I loved the dynamic between these two. They are both sworn off love, but fate seems to have other plans for them. The slow burn and tension between them had me rooting for them to finally give in and admit their feelings. But what I enjoyed most about their relationship was the disability representation. It was refreshing to see a character like Melody who is determined to be independent despite her challenges. The way Cassius supports and sees the beauty behind her scars melted my heart.

Speaking of Cassius, can we talk about how amazing of a book boyfriend he is? This man is a total cinnamon roll. He’s kind, considerate and most importantly, he’s always there for his family. I loved how he put Melody’s happiness before his responsibilities. He’s definitely one of the best book boyfriends I’ve read about.

[Aimee H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book filled my heart from start to finish, not just for the words on the page but for what and how much I know they mean and how special they are. How it’s something for someone to pick up and for them to be able to relate to a main character for the first time because not everyone is ‘perfect’. There is so much in here that squeezed on my heart, which hurt so much more with how full it was feeling. Every thing is handled so well and it just is how things are in life which is just so important.

And for the actual story, the characters, I love them, I love their journey, I just love it all. But this is just so much more than just the characters which makes me love it even more. My words in a review can’t do it justice, so just go give it a read! 💜

[Celina Rosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassius is a tattoo artist trying to run his own business and support his two younger siblings while trying to get through his last year of college. Melody is a college student who is trying to move out of her family's house and show although she has a disability, she does not need her parents to take care of her. Cassius and Melody have a one-night stand not thinking they would ever see each other again until Melody becomes Cassius roommate with the help of Cassius's sister. The main characters in this story show so much strength and perseverance while trying find a place in this world despite outside negative judgements. I loved that author Darlene Rodriguez gave all of the characters not just Cassius and Melody so much respect and individuality while writing about some of the sensitive subjects within this story. Definitely a recommended read.

Thank you, Darlene Rodriguez, for sharing this ARC with me!! ❤

[Traci Sek · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC of Tattooed Hearts by @authordarlenerodriguez ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🌶️🌶️

Beautifully written story about a girl named Melody with a disability but with a heart of gold 💛 who doesn’t judge anyone and has low self esteem because of her disability. Her first time being away from her parents on college campus she runs into a man who she connected with one night ‘sunlight’ at his tattoo shop.

The fun part he has a twin.. I won’t give it away but I do recommend reading this slowburn romance. It gives you all the feels of what it means to stand up for yourself and not let the world tear you down and make you feel less than!

Preorder your copy now over on Amazon!

[redreads4861 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed every second of this book. Melody and Cassius were so good. The connection they had from the start was perfection. They were supposed to be a one night only. Until Melody moves schools and needs somewhere to stay. She refused to stay at home. Then she sees a flyer for someone looking for a roommate and that is where the interesting times begin.. I really liked how Cass kept telling and showing Melody that she was more than just her scars and disability. He saw right past all that and saw the true Melody.

[Meli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tattooed Hearts was a fun, quick read! It's not often I read a book with an FMC that has a disability. Even less so, an FMC that has similar feelings that I have regarding my chronic illnesses. While Melody and my issues aren't the same, I loved the reality Darlene brought to the page. Cassius & Melody are so great together and I loved seeing them take the steps they needed and at their pace. The side characters were also a lot of fun! I can't wait to see if we get to delve into more of their lives 👀🤞🏻

I was lucky enough to be gifted this ARC, and I'm so glad I was!

[Juana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book a lot. Cassius and Melody both have been hurt in the past by exes but have a hard time denying the connection between them.

They do have a bit of will they won’t they situation for a bit while also dealing with their exes lurking around and Melody’s father hating Cassius and his sister Cece. There is miscommunication between them at different points that almost ruins things between them but what is a romance without a little drama popping up.

Overall, this was a cute story that is enjoyable and hopefully others read as well.

[Gabrielle Braden · Rating 5 out of 5]

1.5🌶

I had the pleasure of reading this as an ARC.

Tattooed Hearts is a super cute romance with a great mix of representation for disabilities and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Cassius is a super cinnamon roll, tattoo artist MMC, and Melody is his new roommate that he had a one night stand with months ago.
If you're looking for a quick good mood read check this book out when it releases April 16th, 2024!

[Amanda Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't even know how to begin this review. I love the characters so much. The representation of a disability that I found true to form was inspiring. Darlene did such an amazing job writing this book.

The relationship between Cass and Melody was heartbreaking and amazing all at the same time. Both characters struggled with the history of trauma. One trauma being an ultimatum, and the other being history of being put down and told they weren't enough. Throughout the story, you can see the struggles each character has with wanting the other. My heart broke and was mended throughout the entire read. I read this in 2 sittings. It was such an amazing story.

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

"She's infected me, inked my soul with everything she does, everything she says, every time she looks at me. I'm hers. Completely and utterly hers."

OMG...Cass and Melody are so freaking adorable. He is the epitome of a good man. I mean he calls her Moonlight and she calls him Sunlight....so original and cute. These two could not be any more opposite, Cass a tattoo shop owner/artist who puts his family first and helps take care of them and Melody the daughter of wealthy parents who has been sheltered most of her life and she is ready to thrive on her own.

Ms. Rodriguez pens a beautiful and heartwarming story of two people who do not judge others by their outer appearances but what is on the inside and it was such a refreshing read for me. There were a couple times my heart went out to Melody but not to fear because she is a very strong minded individual determined to do for herself, lucky her though, she gets the added benefit of a man like Cass in her life to help assist her. I am very much looking forward to more of this series and the characters that were introduced in this first book.

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got an ARC and I loved it! Started reading this morning and just finished now 🩷 all the angst in there and the plot twists 🥹 one of my fav books def for sure!! Their story is the sweetest, I loved reading about it and the representation for LGTBQ community. As my sister is trans, thank you for this 🩷🫶🏼

[Sofia Naomi Jamba · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book follows the love story of Melody and Cassius, and the obstacles that they find on there path to love.
If you like  Slow Burn, One Night Stand, Disability Rep, Anxiety Rep, Roomates and more this is definetly a book for you.

[Reagen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet and unique love story with amazing disability and lgbtq+ rep

[Isabelle Sumner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this super spicy banter filled romance with tons of humor banter, trans representation disability representation has everything I love in a romance, so excited for more from this author

[Brianna Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received and ARC of this book to review with my honest opinion and I am so glad I did!
The representation in here for disabilities and LGBTQ+ community was beautiful.
Very quick read

[tara!! · Rating 3 out of 5]

not my favourite but also good!

[Deyce M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was different than what I normally read but I enjoyed it. The representation was wonderful, and I love the side characters. Both characters were so cute together and the attraction between them was inevitable. I love the nicknames they have for each other, it was something different. This is a slow burn with very little spice, so if it's something you like then I recommend picking up this book.







I read an eARC of this book and this is my honest review.