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Tattoo Heartist: A Grumpy x Sunshine Dark Romance
Men like me don't deserve soft things. But I kept her anyway.
Tristian Locke
I built my life around control.
Spent my life solving problems with my fists. In the ring. In the streets. In the shadows of Chicago's underground.
But I’m a man on borrowed time, borrowed money, living a life that’s not mine.
And I have nothing left to give anyone.
Then Ingrid Rodriguez walked into my shop.
She was soft in every way I'm not. And underneath all that gentleness she was carrying something dark.
Pain she won't let me touch, secrets she won't let me carry.
She doesn't trust me with any of it.
She will.
Ingrid Rodriguez
Love and pain feel the same when that's all you've ever known.
My father made sure of that.
Kept my world small, invisible, his.
Which means I wasn’t supposed to bump into Tristian Locke. Wasn’t supposed to let him drive me home, feel safe around him, or fall in love.
I was supposed to manage him. Report back. Keep him in line.
He carries scars I'm only beginning to understand. And the closer I get, the more I realize the monsters in my life were never the ones who looked like him.
He wants to know my hurt, wants to be the one to take it away.
I know the pain of what loving him could cost me.
I'm starting to think it might be worth it.
Tropes/What to
Dark Grumpy x Sunshine
Touch Her and Die
Obsessive/Possessive Tattooed MMC
Gentle Giant
Slow Burn
Angst Romance
Abuse Survivor FMC
Underground Fighter
"Who Hurt You?"
Dual POV
Tristian Locke
I built my life around control.
Spent my life solving problems with my fists. In the ring. In the streets. In the shadows of Chicago's underground.
But I’m a man on borrowed time, borrowed money, living a life that’s not mine.
And I have nothing left to give anyone.
Then Ingrid Rodriguez walked into my shop.
She was soft in every way I'm not. And underneath all that gentleness she was carrying something dark.
Pain she won't let me touch, secrets she won't let me carry.
She doesn't trust me with any of it.
She will.
Ingrid Rodriguez
Love and pain feel the same when that's all you've ever known.
My father made sure of that.
Kept my world small, invisible, his.
Which means I wasn’t supposed to bump into Tristian Locke. Wasn’t supposed to let him drive me home, feel safe around him, or fall in love.
I was supposed to manage him. Report back. Keep him in line.
He carries scars I'm only beginning to understand. And the closer I get, the more I realize the monsters in my life were never the ones who looked like him.
He wants to know my hurt, wants to be the one to take it away.
I know the pain of what loving him could cost me.
I'm starting to think it might be worth it.
Tropes/What to
Dark Grumpy x Sunshine
Touch Her and Die
Obsessive/Possessive Tattooed MMC
Gentle Giant
Slow Burn
Angst Romance
Abuse Survivor FMC
Underground Fighter
"Who Hurt You?"
Dual POV
362 pages, ebook
Published May 22, 2026
About the author
S.K. Angel
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Angel is an independent romance, fiction, and fantasy author, officially known as iiLoveydoveii on Wattpad. Here, you will find her published paperbacks and ebooks.
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Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorskangel
Find me on
Instagram/TikTok/Twitter/Facebook/Youtube/Pinterest:
https://authorskangel.com/
Angel is an independent romance, fiction, and fantasy author, officially known as iiLoveydoveii on Wattpad. Here, you will find her published paperbacks and ebooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 31, 2026
Absolute muck. Not the worst thing I've ever read but definately close. The writing was terrible, the characters were terrible, the storyline was messy and it was just really fucking boring.
Tristian (did she spell Tristan wrong?) gave me the ick. Not only was it a WILD choice to have every sex scene be from the male POV but the overuse of the word "little" screamed of creep. Also the whole "I have a temper and smash shit up like a fucking toddler everytime someone annoys me" thing is deeply unattractive.
This is absolutely not the one 🙄
Tristian (did she spell Tristan wrong?) gave me the ick. Not only was it a WILD choice to have every sex scene be from the male POV but the overuse of the word "little" screamed of creep. Also the whole "I have a temper and smash shit up like a fucking toddler everytime someone annoys me" thing is deeply unattractive.
This is absolutely not the one 🙄
June 16, 2026
Absoluut niet.
June 3, 2026
This book was kind of perfect. It had a very Wattpad vibe to it that immediately I was kind of in love with. Tristian and Ingrid’s relationship had an instalove/trauma bonded connection that really laid the groundwork for the perfect dark romance that was just obsessive enough. I have to say though the darkest parts of this book were all of the outside mediation. I mean I stayed stressed and it felt like every other page there was someone trying to make sure they didn’t have a happy ending. Tristian and Ingrid really and I mean reallyyyyyyy deserved their happy ending and the actual connection outside of all the background noise was cutesy and sweet. This was definitely one of my favorite books I had read in a minute.
May 28, 2026
This was a great read for me, I loved every second of reading this.
I loved their kinks, although I thought they would have explored one of them in particular a little more. Tristian's nickname for Ingrid was cute. They're so cute together ❤️
Parts of the story needed a little more explanation, I think 🤔 but I enjoyed the whole book.
Looking forward to the sister's book (I didn't think I would, but the epilogue got me intrigued)
I loved their kinks, although I thought they would have explored one of them in particular a little more. Tristian's nickname for Ingrid was cute. They're so cute together ❤️
Parts of the story needed a little more explanation, I think 🤔 but I enjoyed the whole book.
Looking forward to the sister's book (I didn't think I would, but the epilogue got me intrigued)
June 3, 2026
DNF this book
Weird. Infantalizes the FMC, with a big brooding manchild MMC.
Literally what is the writing? I've read fanfiction that is better than this.
Weird. Infantalizes the FMC, with a big brooding manchild MMC.
Literally what is the writing? I've read fanfiction that is better than this.
July 3, 2026
Rating: 1 ⭐️
I saw one Instagram reel about it but this is the weirdest thing I’ve ever read. It’s like a fanfic but in the worse way possible.
Tristian (MMC) is this big, brooding, morally grey character who infantilizes Ingrid (FMC) every time. The miscommunication was insane because wdym he’s a full grown ass man and gives her the silent treatment every time there’s an issue??
There were also so many plot points left unanswered like Tristian’s relationship with his father and possible repercussions for his whole situation with Darragh.
I saw one Instagram reel about it but this is the weirdest thing I’ve ever read. It’s like a fanfic but in the worse way possible.
Tristian (MMC) is this big, brooding, morally grey character who infantilizes Ingrid (FMC) every time. The miscommunication was insane because wdym he’s a full grown ass man and gives her the silent treatment every time there’s an issue??
There were also so many plot points left unanswered like Tristian’s relationship with his father and possible repercussions for his whole situation with Darragh.
July 9, 2026
I had to deduct 2 stars because what do you mean he knew her father was hitting her and he didn't do anything because he didn't want to "overstep" wtf. If you know someone is being hurt in that way you have to try and help them. Let them know there is a way out. Rather get out upset her and then grovel then let her being abused by her dad.
That being said, what I really liked about the book was the way their love story unfolded. They are both in their early mid twenties and for both of them it's the real first relationship. With all the shit that is going on their life and the trauma they try the navigate it. So given these circumstances I don't find it very realistic that he leaves when they are in a "fight" or that she shuts down, and they have sex instead. I feel like that is very authentic and fitting to the story and characters. But they were also reflective after walking away he realized that he was wrong and he also knew that he had "issues" in communication.
I also liked that they sort of became depended on eachother, describing the other as the air they breathe.
In order to see a real "improvement/development" I would have liked it more if he had told her about the plans of killing Darragh. Because I generally hate it when the MMC don't tell the FMC things "to protect them"
I also at times thought that she was very naive and she had no backbone. But she proved that she changed at the end of the book while staying this soft version.
Towards the end it seems "too easy" the way they solved it all. Like how they got out and so on. And generally somethings were to much fairytale like in pov. And some things were left open but maybe because of the second book?
And it also seemed super deep on one hand but also super superficial on the other hand.
I wished it was more at certain times!
Also I really wanted her to find a job or something.
At the end it was still a fun read and entertaining. But I am not sure if I would recommend it...
That being said, what I really liked about the book was the way their love story unfolded. They are both in their early mid twenties and for both of them it's the real first relationship. With all the shit that is going on their life and the trauma they try the navigate it. So given these circumstances I don't find it very realistic that he leaves when they are in a "fight" or that she shuts down, and they have sex instead. I feel like that is very authentic and fitting to the story and characters. But they were also reflective after walking away he realized that he was wrong and he also knew that he had "issues" in communication.
I also liked that they sort of became depended on eachother, describing the other as the air they breathe.
In order to see a real "improvement/development" I would have liked it more if he had told her about the plans of killing Darragh. Because I generally hate it when the MMC don't tell the FMC things "to protect them"
I also at times thought that she was very naive and she had no backbone. But she proved that she changed at the end of the book while staying this soft version.
Towards the end it seems "too easy" the way they solved it all. Like how they got out and so on. And generally somethings were to much fairytale like in pov. And some things were left open but maybe because of the second book?
And it also seemed super deep on one hand but also super superficial on the other hand.
I wished it was more at certain times!
Also I really wanted her to find a job or something.
At the end it was still a fun read and entertaining. But I am not sure if I would recommend it...
June 24, 2026
This book was about an emotionally fragile and sheltered girl slowly coming out of her shel with the help of a rough and emotionally scared fighter.
My thoughts: I wasn’t very sure of the FMC and whether I liked her at the beginning. But now that I thought about it for a days, I feel like that’s who she was meant to be. She has had years of abuse and is slowly trying to find her way in the world. I like that the MMC recognised that their relationship is toxic, as they defo have a codependent relationship but I do like the passion that they have for each other. The book didn’t end on the happiest note, but naturally makes you want to read the next one - which despite my review I definitely will be reading. I feel like the book might have been a tad dark for my taste and feels a bit rushed, with some plot points lacking depth. However, I would respect however liked the book as I see its potential, just think it might not be my taste.
Rating:⭐⭐
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
My thoughts: I wasn’t very sure of the FMC and whether I liked her at the beginning. But now that I thought about it for a days, I feel like that’s who she was meant to be. She has had years of abuse and is slowly trying to find her way in the world. I like that the MMC recognised that their relationship is toxic, as they defo have a codependent relationship but I do like the passion that they have for each other. The book didn’t end on the happiest note, but naturally makes you want to read the next one - which despite my review I definitely will be reading. I feel like the book might have been a tad dark for my taste and feels a bit rushed, with some plot points lacking depth. However, I would respect however liked the book as I see its potential, just think it might not be my taste.
Rating:⭐⭐
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 10, 2026
this book was a pleasant read (read it in basically one sitting), however, i still have a few remarks.
1. lazy story development - the MMC meets the FMC in the first chapter already, both of them extremely attracted to each other from the first sight. there is nothing wrong with that at its core, however, it is in my opinion lazy. it is just easy for the main characters to love each other immediately without even getting to know each other.
2. plots - the plots were really interesting and made sense. however, not all of them were closed completely, which is a bit unfortunate.
3. role of abuse - i have no issues with mentions of abuse, dedicating books to survivors, etc. however, several scenes in this story seemed extremely forced and dry, just to show people that are hurt what to do in situations of abuse. i don't mind things like these, it is good that they are there, but they were giving 'AI implementation' vibe rather than natural action and thoughts.
1. lazy story development - the MMC meets the FMC in the first chapter already, both of them extremely attracted to each other from the first sight. there is nothing wrong with that at its core, however, it is in my opinion lazy. it is just easy for the main characters to love each other immediately without even getting to know each other.
2. plots - the plots were really interesting and made sense. however, not all of them were closed completely, which is a bit unfortunate.
3. role of abuse - i have no issues with mentions of abuse, dedicating books to survivors, etc. however, several scenes in this story seemed extremely forced and dry, just to show people that are hurt what to do in situations of abuse. i don't mind things like these, it is good that they are there, but they were giving 'AI implementation' vibe rather than natural action and thoughts.
June 16, 2026
If you are looking for book that wholesome with bit of edge and spice this is the book. Tristian seems like a typical guy trying to get by at first but that quickly short lived by his dark past. His care and protectiveness towards Ingrid is so strong and wants her far away from his past! Meanwhile Ingrid’s rebelling and her exploration into a new side of herself with Tristan was so cute to see. They both have a messy past and present, but they use each other to overcome their challenges. I will say the book is a little fast paced but other than that this is a great book!
4.5/5 stars
4.5/5 stars
May 28, 2026
It was a little bit of a mess. I liked the idea itself but the execution wasn’t very good. I still enjoyed it but there was a lot of loose threads, the MMC father situation didn’t have a clear resolution and his mom condition was so confusing. The FMC was getting to my nerves, I honestly at some point prefer her older sister even tho she was bitchy but she would say something. Overall, it was an okay book.
2.5/5🌶️
2.5/5🌶️
June 4, 2026
Literally two train wrecks trying to find shelter in their own broken way. It was beautiful and gut wrenching at the same time. But they were perfectly sweet together and had my heart clenches for every struggle they have to go through. Tristian and Ingrid surely show massive character development which in the beginning got me questioning whether they will overcome their own trauma just to love each other. And they did.
Did Not Finish
July 27, 2026The time is finally come for me to DNF a book for the first time…
Never thought this day would come, but I really just can’t be bothered to finish this book. I did enjoy the first half to an extent. It was fun innocent girl x experienced tattoo artist fighter you know the typical cliché however the second half just became toxic and boring and I really just don’t care to finish reading it….
sorry, not sorry
Never thought this day would come, but I really just can’t be bothered to finish this book. I did enjoy the first half to an extent. It was fun innocent girl x experienced tattoo artist fighter you know the typical cliché however the second half just became toxic and boring and I really just don’t care to finish reading it….
sorry, not sorry
June 11, 2026
Dnf 23%
It was good, I really enjoyed reading this book until an OW kissed him. What's the point of this scene seriously even if he pushed her away he still let the girl put her lips against him and I can't read that in my books.
I'm tired of books where there are OWs, it's disgusting.
At least put a TW for this and not waste my time
It was good, I really enjoyed reading this book until an OW kissed him. What's the point of this scene seriously even if he pushed her away he still let the girl put her lips against him and I can't read that in my books.
I'm tired of books where there are OWs, it's disgusting.
At least put a TW for this and not waste my time
July 3, 2026
Not bad. But SO MUCH DRAMA. His dad sucks, most of her family sucks, the dude in charge of the underground boxing sucks. And our main characters are just stuck in the middle, trying to make it out of the chaos. I love their relationship, I loved watching it grow. He’s patient with her and it feels like their relationship progresses naturally. It wasn’t my favorite but I pushed through!
May 27, 2026
Because its exam season all books are gonna feel so tempting so this one was as well even tho it is kinda boring😋🫠
3.5 🌟🌟🌟
Tho I was so annoyed at tristian smtimes wdym you want her to share everything but when she does the same you shut her up???!!??!?!?! Also got bored during the story
3.5 🌟🌟🌟
Tho I was so annoyed at tristian smtimes wdym you want her to share everything but when she does the same you shut her up???!!??!?!?! Also got bored during the story
June 15, 2026
2 stars - ★★
2 stars for tristian only!
miscommunication at its finest
childish back and fourth
0 character development
weak storyline - major events happening with absolutely no explanation as to how or why. It was simply just over in 2 sentences
meh lol
2 stars for tristian only!
miscommunication at its finest
childish back and fourth
0 character development
weak storyline - major events happening with absolutely no explanation as to how or why. It was simply just over in 2 sentences
meh lol
Did Not Finish
June 20, 2026The beginning of the book gave me Saving Boston vibes (back from my ongoing Wattpad journey); however this was much much worse.
DNF because I felt like the plot was not going anywhere and the characters did not make me feel much.
DNF because I felt like the plot was not going anywhere and the characters did not make me feel much.
June 29, 2026
I can’t believe tiktok still has good books recommendations!
I would have finished it in one sitting if i didn’t have work and studies!
Such a great plot line story and book characters!
I truly adored it!
I would have finished it in one sitting if i didn’t have work and studies!
Such a great plot line story and book characters!
I truly adored it!
July 8, 2026
This book has a very Wattpad-like feel.
I found it on Instagram Reels, and the idea was very interesting, but the execution wasn't.
In the end, I was left with many unanswered questions (there are some plot holes).🤷🏻♀️
It's not a masterpiece, but it's not a bad book either.
I found it on Instagram Reels, and the idea was very interesting, but the execution wasn't.
In the end, I was left with many unanswered questions (there are some plot holes).🤷🏻♀️
It's not a masterpiece, but it's not a bad book either.
July 25, 2026
Amazing and perfect
Wow. Their chemistry was palpable and perfect. I loved how they both were fighting to gain their freedom for people in their lives and they stuck together to achieve it.
Wow. Their chemistry was palpable and perfect. I loved how they both were fighting to gain their freedom for people in their lives and they stuck together to achieve it.
May 26, 2026
3.75⭐️
Read
June 3, 2026Oh no
June 7, 2026
6.0/10.0
June 13, 2026
not the ending I was hoping for! A happy ending but not what I was expecting!
June 22, 2026
3⭐️ 2🌶️
I enjoyed it.
Not great, but not terrible either.
I enjoyed it.
Not great, but not terrible either.
June 23, 2026
Just don’t 😑 My word, just no.
June 24, 2026
DNF at 70%. Tried so hard to like it, but the last 25% I managed to get through was, "Do I finish it, or do I just leave it?" Just not engaging for me, and I just feel the MCs just didn't work.
June 24, 2026
it was okay
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews