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Tattoo
Described as "too raunchy for teens", TATTOO is a controversial new young adult novel.
"You judge me when you look at me because of the tattoos that cover my body—but that’s only because you don’t understand what they mean.......
My mother named me Mercy, after the nuns who raised her, but my life has been anything but merciful. The path I’ve traveled has been long and winding, full of heartbreak and violence, but also rare moments of beauty.
My story starts in Savannah, the day I found my mother’s body after she’d chased two bottles of sleeping pills with a bottle of home-made moonshine. It’s the story of my unhinged stepfather, a devastating fire, and how I ended up on the run, wanted for murder.
It tells of my obsessive search for my birth father that I clung to like a life raft as I drifted—from the bright lights of a shady traveling carnival, where I was given my first tattoo by my older lover; to a biker gang falling apart at the seams, where I met the man who would torment me for years to come. From the cream of high society in California, to the lonely beaches of Mexico where I finally found a type of peace—just not the one I expected.
You judge me because my tattoos make me look strange, dangerous. But there’s more to them than that. To understand the way I look, you need to know where I came from. To understand me, you need to know my story…"
________________________________________________
Described as “too raunchy for teens”, TATTOO is the debut YA novel by Jenna Cosgrove. Set in the early 60s, TATTOO follows the journey of Mercy Daniels - teenage fugitive - and the search for her birth father that takes her from Savannah to San Francisco to Mexico, and takes her innocence along the way.
"You judge me when you look at me because of the tattoos that cover my body—but that’s only because you don’t understand what they mean.......
My mother named me Mercy, after the nuns who raised her, but my life has been anything but merciful. The path I’ve traveled has been long and winding, full of heartbreak and violence, but also rare moments of beauty.
My story starts in Savannah, the day I found my mother’s body after she’d chased two bottles of sleeping pills with a bottle of home-made moonshine. It’s the story of my unhinged stepfather, a devastating fire, and how I ended up on the run, wanted for murder.
It tells of my obsessive search for my birth father that I clung to like a life raft as I drifted—from the bright lights of a shady traveling carnival, where I was given my first tattoo by my older lover; to a biker gang falling apart at the seams, where I met the man who would torment me for years to come. From the cream of high society in California, to the lonely beaches of Mexico where I finally found a type of peace—just not the one I expected.
You judge me because my tattoos make me look strange, dangerous. But there’s more to them than that. To understand the way I look, you need to know where I came from. To understand me, you need to know my story…"
________________________________________________
Described as “too raunchy for teens”, TATTOO is the debut YA novel by Jenna Cosgrove. Set in the early 60s, TATTOO follows the journey of Mercy Daniels - teenage fugitive - and the search for her birth father that takes her from Savannah to San Francisco to Mexico, and takes her innocence along the way.
- GenresYoung AdultFiction
448 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2016
16 people are currently reading
818 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Cosgrove
1 book34 followersJenna is a history-obsessed writer (with 8 tattoos). She is fascinated by subcultures, with an interest in body art (in case you hadn't guessed), street art, underground anything, alternative everything, industrial areas, abandoned places, and anything else out of the norm.
Jenna lives in Melbourne, Australia.
Jenna lives in Melbourne, Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 25, 2020
*GoodReads Giveaway!!*
Tattoo is billed as a YA novel but I think the only thing young adult about it is the age of the protagonist. At the start of the novel Mercy is 17 and has a younger sister Scarlet. This is not to say I didn't enjoy the book just that I do not think it is suited for a young audience.
Now into the book.
The book opens with Mercy's stepfather drunk and hallucinating. He's not at home but in some warzone far away. Mercy's fear of him is palpable. So is her disgust. You wonder how much she has suffered at his hands. How much abuse has she seen in the years after her mother's death. So when that fateful night arrives, when her stepfather Rob's anger rages as he catches her going through her mother's mementos, you understand the danger Mercy is in. You know she has no other choice but to lock that door. That it is the only thing keeping Rob from killing her.
As she runs from the fire and her younger sister Mercy clings to the hope of finding their natural father and reuniting their family. She believes this is the only chance to save herself and Scarlet.
But her journey is not a straight path. Time and again she is placed in dangerous and compromising positions.
I also think the title Tattoo is misleading. Body art did not play as significant a role as I thought it would reading the blurb and other reviews. Mercy is not judged by her appearance in this sense as her tattoos were hidden. She is judged as a woman. First as a poor battered girl. Then as a curvaceous beauty and finally as woman of stature and because of her name.
Yes, tattoos were important to Mercy. When she discovers the picture of her parents young and in love she cannot help but see the tattoos that grace her father's body. Each one that adorns her body have a special significance and tell a story. They are spiritual and signify healing. A cleansing of sorts. A mark of perseverance.
But they are not the crux of the story. In my opinion it is the strength of these women -Mercy, Scarlet, Electra and Amelia. That they endured. That they survived. That they saved themselves.
Tattoo is billed as a YA novel but I think the only thing young adult about it is the age of the protagonist. At the start of the novel Mercy is 17 and has a younger sister Scarlet. This is not to say I didn't enjoy the book just that I do not think it is suited for a young audience.
Now into the book.
The book opens with Mercy's stepfather drunk and hallucinating. He's not at home but in some warzone far away. Mercy's fear of him is palpable. So is her disgust. You wonder how much she has suffered at his hands. How much abuse has she seen in the years after her mother's death. So when that fateful night arrives, when her stepfather Rob's anger rages as he catches her going through her mother's mementos, you understand the danger Mercy is in. You know she has no other choice but to lock that door. That it is the only thing keeping Rob from killing her.
As she runs from the fire and her younger sister Mercy clings to the hope of finding their natural father and reuniting their family. She believes this is the only chance to save herself and Scarlet.
But her journey is not a straight path. Time and again she is placed in dangerous and compromising positions.
I also think the title Tattoo is misleading. Body art did not play as significant a role as I thought it would reading the blurb and other reviews. Mercy is not judged by her appearance in this sense as her tattoos were hidden. She is judged as a woman. First as a poor battered girl. Then as a curvaceous beauty and finally as woman of stature and because of her name.
Yes, tattoos were important to Mercy. When she discovers the picture of her parents young and in love she cannot help but see the tattoos that grace her father's body. Each one that adorns her body have a special significance and tell a story. They are spiritual and signify healing. A cleansing of sorts. A mark of perseverance.
But they are not the crux of the story. In my opinion it is the strength of these women -Mercy, Scarlet, Electra and Amelia. That they endured. That they survived. That they saved themselves.
August 24, 2020
Hi, I won a Kindle copy of this in a Goodreads Giveaweay
I didn't take this book too seriously for the first 2/3rds. I read along, enjoying, thinking. "Okay, what bonkers thing is going to happen next," and then another bonkers thing would happen. I found it very VC Andrews Flowers in the Attic in tone, a bit more soap operaesque, meant to be engaging, but not literary or deep.
Mercy, the main character, is pretty simple in doing what it takes to survive. There are no scenes where she thinks or analyzes. The writing heavily favors telling over showing. I think the story would have had a whole different tone and a different level of engagement for me if Mercy would have been more proactive, instead of waiting for the bad thing to happen before making her next move.
The last portion of the book, however, seemed deeper, started to make me care and engage more, as the book felt like it had a theme, a message, and Mercy seemed to experience growth. One of the things I would say about the series that began with Flowers in the Attic is that Cathy never really matured from the child she was in the very beginning, never really operated as an adult. Mercy was similar for most of the book, and then she took steps to become more.
And so toward the end, I though, okay, it's about sisterhood, not just the biological kind, but the female relationships we choose for ourselves -- wow, I like that. But everything that came before only lightly hinted at that. If this book at been operating at this level, both in terms of the sisterhood angle and in terms of feminist commentary on the men she encounters -- whew!
4 stars because I always liked this book, and it would be 4 stars even if that last portion didn't become more layered, because it was entertaining. I LOVED Flowers in the Attic, after all. However, that last portion indicates to me that Jenna Cosgrove has more going on than I thought, and that it's quite likely I will love future books from her.
Also, love tattoos, so...
I didn't take this book too seriously for the first 2/3rds. I read along, enjoying, thinking. "Okay, what bonkers thing is going to happen next," and then another bonkers thing would happen. I found it very VC Andrews Flowers in the Attic in tone, a bit more soap operaesque, meant to be engaging, but not literary or deep.
Mercy, the main character, is pretty simple in doing what it takes to survive. There are no scenes where she thinks or analyzes. The writing heavily favors telling over showing. I think the story would have had a whole different tone and a different level of engagement for me if Mercy would have been more proactive, instead of waiting for the bad thing to happen before making her next move.
The last portion of the book, however, seemed deeper, started to make me care and engage more, as the book felt like it had a theme, a message, and Mercy seemed to experience growth. One of the things I would say about the series that began with Flowers in the Attic is that Cathy never really matured from the child she was in the very beginning, never really operated as an adult. Mercy was similar for most of the book, and then she took steps to become more.
And so toward the end, I though, okay, it's about sisterhood, not just the biological kind, but the female relationships we choose for ourselves -- wow, I like that. But everything that came before only lightly hinted at that. If this book at been operating at this level, both in terms of the sisterhood angle and in terms of feminist commentary on the men she encounters -- whew!
4 stars because I always liked this book, and it would be 4 stars even if that last portion didn't become more layered, because it was entertaining. I LOVED Flowers in the Attic, after all. However, that last portion indicates to me that Jenna Cosgrove has more going on than I thought, and that it's quite likely I will love future books from her.
Also, love tattoos, so...
February 10, 2018
This was my second win on a goodreads giveaway ever.
It has left me very confused and with very mixed feelings about it. I may have to come back and change my rating after I have processed my thoughts further.
The reasons for my confusion are that I did find it hard to put down once I got going but it is meant to be YA and I wouldn't let anyone under 16 read it. Perhaps it is my teacher role coming out, but I want my girls to have strong role models who can rely on themselves and not men. However the book is set in the early 60s when women didn't have as many choices but would a teen process that if they read it alone? Might be an interesting one to read with your teen so this fact could be emphasised. I did think Mercy was learning to stand on her own feet towards the end then surprise, surprise she went soppy again. I am also concerned at the prostitution (some of it voluntary to get protection) and rape scenes and think it is a little much for a young teen. Even the child abuse (though milder) and suicide will hit too close to home for many teens. There does need to be more warning for parents/school libraries buying this book to ensure no harm is caused. Things like these still happen all too often but we don't need to shove it in our kids faces when they have enough to deal with and mostly read to escape reality.
The reviews stating it is too racy for teens seem to have totally missed the point that the few loving sex scenes are not likely to shock any teens, it is the violence and meekness with which Mercy accepts what is going on around her that is far more likely to cause harm. Good but not YA appropriate without parental guidance.
It has left me very confused and with very mixed feelings about it. I may have to come back and change my rating after I have processed my thoughts further.
The reasons for my confusion are that I did find it hard to put down once I got going but it is meant to be YA and I wouldn't let anyone under 16 read it. Perhaps it is my teacher role coming out, but I want my girls to have strong role models who can rely on themselves and not men. However the book is set in the early 60s when women didn't have as many choices but would a teen process that if they read it alone? Might be an interesting one to read with your teen so this fact could be emphasised. I did think Mercy was learning to stand on her own feet towards the end then surprise, surprise she went soppy again. I am also concerned at the prostitution (some of it voluntary to get protection) and rape scenes and think it is a little much for a young teen. Even the child abuse (though milder) and suicide will hit too close to home for many teens. There does need to be more warning for parents/school libraries buying this book to ensure no harm is caused. Things like these still happen all too often but we don't need to shove it in our kids faces when they have enough to deal with and mostly read to escape reality.
The reviews stating it is too racy for teens seem to have totally missed the point that the few loving sex scenes are not likely to shock any teens, it is the violence and meekness with which Mercy accepts what is going on around her that is far more likely to cause harm. Good but not YA appropriate without parental guidance.
April 18, 2021
Great fiction novel by a new Australian author.
Mercy is a gripping character. Her story is raw and real, with the odd flight of fancy here and there. The drive, passion and persistence she demonstrates make this a great novel.
Mercy ran from her family home after it burned with her stepfather inside. She left her sister Scarlet behind but was planning all the time to get Scarlet back and be a family again, while on the run, to find her real father in San Francisco. With no money, she sets out on a journey and finds herself in difficult situations. Mercy is deceitful, shrewd, makes bad decisions, uses her body, and also lies. Throughout her journey she has meaningful tattoo's etched on her body. She does have a soft side, which makes Mercy likeable, even with her bad behaviour. This book has lots of twists and turns and you will not want to put the book down.
January 15, 2018
I won a copy of this book through a goodreads giveaway and had no idea what to expect.
Tattoo is a well crafted novel that packs a punch.
"You judge me when you look at me because of the tattoos that cover my body-but that's only because you don't understand what they mean..."
While this is listed as a YA book I think it is better suited to an older audience. Or at least those over 16, as it is a little hard hitting and gritty in some places and I think it would be a little too raunchy for those in the younger teen years.
It is a compelling story with an emotive narration that keeps you invested in the tale. It is highly original, fast paced, descriptive and highly affecting.
Tattoo is a well crafted novel that packs a punch.
"You judge me when you look at me because of the tattoos that cover my body-but that's only because you don't understand what they mean..."
While this is listed as a YA book I think it is better suited to an older audience. Or at least those over 16, as it is a little hard hitting and gritty in some places and I think it would be a little too raunchy for those in the younger teen years.
It is a compelling story with an emotive narration that keeps you invested in the tale. It is highly original, fast paced, descriptive and highly affecting.
June 9, 2020
Mercy ran from the her home after it burned with her stepfather inside. She left her sister Scarlet behind, while on the run, to find her real father in San Francisco. With no money, she sets out on a journey and finds herself in difficult situations. Mercy is deceitful, shrewd, makes bad decisions, uses her body, and also lies. Throughout her journey she has meaningful tattoo's etched on her body. She does have a soft side, which makes Mercy likeable, even with her bad behavior. This book has lots of twists and turns and you will not want to put the book down. Great Book!
I received this book free from Goodreads for a honest opinion.
I received this book free from Goodreads for a honest opinion.
April 30, 2019
Great fiction by a new Australian author. Mercy is a gripping character. Her story is raw and real, with the odd flight of fancy here and there. The drive, passion and persistence she demonstrates make this a novel I reluctant put down each night. some parts made me think of Gabriel Tallent's My Absolute Darling, in that they both feature strong young female leads coping with adverse situations at home, including abuse. Tattoo is definitely recommended if you can get your hands on a copy.
November 26, 2018
A wonderful read. Hard to put down. Starts with a fired and ends with a bang. A little glimpse into 1950s carnival life. Motorcycle clubs. Murder.
This book has everything including a strong female protagonist who won't stay knocked down no matter what life hits her with. The journey is not always beautiful, but the outcome can be.
This book has everything including a strong female protagonist who won't stay knocked down no matter what life hits her with. The journey is not always beautiful, but the outcome can be.
December 16, 2020
OMG I saw the short film and thought I want this book, so I bought it.
It is nearly impossible to put down, I read it in 16hrs and I never read any book like that, but Tattoo is the best book I have ever read and would read it over and over again.
I also think this would make an awesome feature film
Well done to Jenna
It is nearly impossible to put down, I read it in 16hrs and I never read any book like that, but Tattoo is the best book I have ever read and would read it over and over again.
I also think this would make an awesome feature film
Well done to Jenna
January 27, 2021
OMG, I absolutely LOVED this book! My book arrived just in time for a long weekend get away with my husband. I'm a slow reader but it only took me 5 days to read. Whilst we were out and about sight seeing, all I wanted to do was go back to the hotel room and read. Hard to put down!
Can't wait for any future books by this author, brilliant.
Can't wait for any future books by this author, brilliant.
August 4, 2020
Loved this book. It's about a young girl who after killing her abusive stepfather joins the circus and then a biker gang and then changes her identity, married a rich doctor who she leaves to find her biological father and tracks down her little sister that she abandoned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2020
This was a story with many facets keeping my attention throughout. The main character has a complicated and heartbreaking past that leads to her unique path through life. Led by her need to find her birth father, the main character proves she will endure any obstacle to find her real family.
Read
April 5, 2021I read the book and was really enjoying the read but come chapters 3 to 4 were a miss print and repeated chapter 2 something like that anyway. But I continued to read it I would of enjoyed it more it I didn't have to skip a whole chapter.
January 17, 2018
Loved this book could not put it down great storyline and characters..read it in 2 nights..highly recommended to all..not just YA readers. Im 45..buy this book!
September 17, 2018
Great Read
This book wove a intricate web of characterization and was hard to put down. It was.good.and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This book wove a intricate web of characterization and was hard to put down. It was.good.and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
December 24, 2020
Could not put this book down
Well written and the suspense keeps you turning pages. The story drags you in a lot and keeps you there
Well written and the suspense keeps you turning pages. The story drags you in a lot and keeps you there
January 20, 2021
Loved it
This book had you hooked from the beginning.. Never thought I'll get into this book but I did.. A must read
This book had you hooked from the beginning.. Never thought I'll get into this book but I did.. A must read
August 4, 2021
Paperback
October 27, 2021
I was not able to leave this for long, it's an amazing book. I loved the story, characters & I was hooked from the first few pages.
May 21, 2022
Very compelling characters
December 29, 2020
Great read
This book is absolutely the best read I’ve had in ages! Loved it. Looking forward to more of Jenna’s work.
This book is absolutely the best read I’ve had in ages! Loved it. Looking forward to more of Jenna’s work.
April 6, 2016
A truly compelling book which carries out flawlessly the cruelties it presents. It is a tale filled with pain and hope and a narration that portrays every emotion perfectly. Jenna has a wonderful writing style and the ability to write what many would shirk away from or be able to do justice to. Tattoo is a beautiful tale and one I am so glad I have had the opportunity to read.
March 29, 2022
I loved this book. It was very hard to put down it’s a book that you can read again and again. Currently looking for it to read on my phone while I’m away.
You want something with omg to didn’t see that happening or thrilled feeling on what she did or are you serious why would he do that feeling. Then this book is for you.
You want something with omg to didn’t see that happening or thrilled feeling on what she did or are you serious why would he do that feeling. Then this book is for you.
June 16, 2016
Do yourself favour and check it out, great read and hard to put down.
January 22, 2018
I have struggled to get in to the last several books I have read, but Tattoo, Wow!! I couldnt put it down. I was lucky enough to win a copy in the goodreads giveaways and the evening I received it I set off reading the book. For 3 days I was enthralled in the book. The plot and pace kept the pages turning as i had to know what happened next.
I will be looking out for Jenna Cosgrove's next novel.
Classed as a YA, i would suggest the young teens steering away due to the content, but would highly recommend to all others. I really enjoyed this one! Thanks Jenna and Goodreads.
I will be looking out for Jenna Cosgrove's next novel.
Classed as a YA, i would suggest the young teens steering away due to the content, but would highly recommend to all others. I really enjoyed this one! Thanks Jenna and Goodreads.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews