Tattoo Your Name on My Heart

by Tay Mo'Nae

BrokenDamaged UnlovedZavion never knew what love was. His mother abandoned him at two leaving him to deal with situations no child should ever have to face at the hands of his father. Forced to grow up sooner than he should Zavion's heart becomes cold and his emotions void. Now he's an owner of a popular tattoo shop and he's still battling scars from his childhood. Unable to deal with his past trauma or allow himself to open up to anyone, Zavion throws himself headfirst into his work and uses women as objects rather than partners, until he meets Samara.Samara wears a mask that she has no intentions of lifting until Zavion walks into her life. Moving to Butter Ridge Falls was supposed to be a new beginning. After dealing with the painful memories back home for so long she decides it's time to get her life together and further her career as a tattoo artist. While working under Zavion, she soon learns the two of them are a lot more alike than she would have suspected. Driven by sex and partying, Samara attempts to hide the hurt she suffered long ago until she's forced to welcome it on her doorstep.Two souls struggling with intimacy, trust, and relationships.Join Zavion and Samara on an emotional rollercoaster, that leads them to face their past traumas and learn that there is no time limit to healing.

Genres: African American Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2021

About the author

Tay Mo'Nae is a 27-year-old Urban Romance author who pens about Black Love. She create stories to help her readers escape reality and create a movie in their head. She loves writing about characters that at least one reader can relate too.

With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".

Reviews

[Kameel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I still on the fence as to whether or not I enjoyed this book....first off it was entirely too long to have the reader endure all of that trauma...The e-book and audiobook were inundated with errors. It is my belief that the reader would have been able to understand the amount of trauma that both the hero and heroine endured by cutting the time spent on reading it in half if worded properly. It was too much extra dialogue...For me, it took entirely too long for me to see Samara and Zavion make progress and find some semblance of happiness. This book really pulled my mood down. Jakobi Diem is an absolute master at his craft....I purchased the audiobook simply because his name was attached.

[Annette Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was not even a little bit prepared for the intensity and heartbreak in this book. Samara and Zavion are two tortured souls trying to navigate their way to a normal life after experiencing similar childhood trauma. The pain and trauma they endured just about broke my heart. They were failed by people who had absolutely no business being anyone’s parents. When Samara and Zavion meet, they figure out they have more in common with one another than they care to realize. They each have a story to tell that will break your heart. Tattoo Your Name on My Heart was a heart wrenching tale about traumatic pasts, healing, and growth. Samara and Zavion’s journey to a HEA is filled with ups and downs and a whole lot of tough love. The author did a phenomenal job with the character development. You can really see the growth of these characters as the book progresses and you can’t help but to root for them to come out stronger on the other side. This book is definitely triggering but, it's so worth the read.

[Dahyana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Samara x Zavion

Wheww!! The trauma in this book was overwhelming. Zavion's childhood was absolutely tragic. Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse…I learned about Samara's past. It blew my mind how two people with so much past hurt could help one another heal. Samara was pushy, yet gentle. Zavion was an asśhole, with the kindest soul and oh so fragile. (His parents ain't shït). Both Samara and Zavion were dealing with some of the saddest, most unimaginable things from their childhood. And they both equally sucked at coping with them. However, they managed to bring something out of each other where they both needed each other. They sadly bonded over their trauma, which fortunately helped them both on their healing journey. This a super heavy dark read and it was hella long..(a little too long imo). But I'm glad on the progress Zavion and Samara were making. 
Yay to therapy!!
Though I enjoyed the story, it was riddled with errors.
Definitely recommend, but beware that it's hella heavy!!!
Now, I need some sappy, no drama love story to balance out my reading after this super dark one.

[Rashawnda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trauma bonding that turned into a healed love! Wow what a story. Zavion and Samara were battling some serious childhood trauma and found very different ways to cope. This was deep and I loved everything about their journey to healing. Tay Mo’nae is easily becoming one of my favs. I love how she writes her heroines with such confidence and bad b!$ch mentality. Despite their flaws they k ow who they are and don’t take bs from anyone and Samara was no different!

[Toya Davis-Stokley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ma’am, you gave us warnings, but nothing could have prepared me for the myriad of feelings I have after this read! I have read many of your books, but this one honey is it! 🔥 These two people who have been failed by parents, who were supposed to love and care for them, are wandering aimlessly through adulthood trying to find their way! The pain and trauma that they endured, broke my heart and I shed many tears! Zavion, a shy kid, was forced to do unfathomable acts by his father that destroyed him! He crumbled, became a shell of himself, while hiding his pain behind harsh words, mean actions, and a standoffish attitude! He didn’t allow anyone to get close to him, as his trust was broken. But there was something about HER! Samara, seemed to be a wild child, who was sexually free and very forward with her wants and needs. She didn’t know boundaries, and was very persuasive in getting her way. However, when she began to reveal herself, one could see that she was somewhere stuck between a traumatized teen, and a young woman trying to get her power back! Zavion and Samara should have been a train wreck together, however, there was a pull and curiosity about the other that they couldn’t ignore. Although, Samara still had issues controlling her impulses, she had begun to make a change in Zavion. She made him “feel” something real! He didn’t understand that feeling, or know what to do with them, but he knew she made him want to be different. She was somehow able to slowly break down the walls and penetrate his heart, because she understood his pain! I just wanted to throw Benny away! That damn man made me so angry!! 🤡 Whew! These two really went through it, trying to find some semblance of normalcy, while healing. I just kept feeling my heart break over and over, for them as they continually hit snags while trying to find their footing, and get their lives together. My heart smiled as both Zavion and Samara found healing, support, security and love within each other! This story was heavy, but an amazing read! Great job! 👍👍👍

[Sheronda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zavion and Samara connected through the their traumas. It took some time but they both did the work toward healing. I really enjoyed their story. I would have like more at the end but overall it was a great book.

[Isatta · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was very hard for me to get through. Its a good book but I don't think I was in the best mental or emotional space to give it the full attention it deserved. I may have also given it more emotional investment than I possessed at the time, which made it harder to read. The romance was entertaining, and I loved the realism in the romance.

[ReadnliftwithShar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook Review:

The author delivered with this book! Hands down, it has to be my favorite from her. Zavion and Samara had me so engrossed in their story. Their story was completely raw, complex, unimaginable and totally heart wrenching. I could not get over how much the characters overcame to get to the point of being in love.

We don’t read nearly enough about male characters with such complex issues as Zavion. He came off as stoic and unenthusiastic about anything. I knew from the beginning that his story would be different. He dealt with some serious childhood traumas but his growth was the best part. Facing his past was hard for him but he needed it to be his best version for Samara and little Yaya! Samara too endured some of life’s hardest moments. She moved to a new city for a fresh beginning. The move was best for her. My heart literally hurt for Samara. I loved her support system of her aunt, uncle, and cousin because her mother wore me out. When Samara connected with Yaya, her daughter, I was so happy! I could see past Samara’s fast life that she was crying out for love and acceptance.

The character development in this book was *chefs kiss* I can’t put into words how much these characters grew throughout this book. Facing their past and fears, communicating their needs, and being vulnerable with each other is what helped them overcome their complicated pasts. They needed each other, in every way of the phrase. They were two broken souls trying to find their way in a world that tried to silence them. For some, the topics discussed can be a trigger but for me, I needed it. I welcomed their truths. It painted the picture perfectly for me. I felt every emotion possible. It felt like I was apart of their little world. This book was amazing and the narrators did the darn thang!

[Torri (BlackRomanceConnoisseur) · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Dark Place

Trauma recognizes trauma; people who’ve been through something are often able to spot another person that has experienced trauma and I think this enables an ability to provide a judgment free safe-zone.

This was a heavy read, as I continued to read this book it got heavier and lighter at the same time. One of the things that stood out to me is when you are dealing with a person that has experienced trauma you can provide a judgment free space while maintaining accountability— support without enabling. I can’t be your rehab but I can be the partner that walks with you while you heal.

This book was realistic, the characters felt like people you’d know in real life. The pace, developments and setbacks felt real. At this point, I might be rambling but I think this was a great way to include Black mental health advocacy in a work of fiction. The accurate depiction of therapy, showing that you won’t reveal all of your life‘s issues and traumas in one session nor will it be solved quickly. And showing that it is more than OK to let go of people that can’t be a part of the life you’re creating for the healed version of you—even if they are blood.

I loved that this depicted characters the had mental health struggles but were still worthy of relationships and love. They still had people in their lives that were willing to meet them where they were and people who were accepting of the growth and changes they were making.

Dope book, I enjoyed and I’d recommend it to others (just be sure to check the Trigger Warnings).

[Qiana Groves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zavion and Samara are two broken souls navigating their ways through life. Their pasts have traumatized them and changed the way they view love. When Samara decides to start a new journey in life and ends up right in Zavion's path, they start to feel things they've never felt before, confusing them and forcing them to deal with all of the demons from their past.

Tay Mo'nae did a great job with character development on Zavion and Samara. You can see and feel their growth on the pages. I'm so proud of the growth I've seen in this author's pen game. Can't wait for her next book!

[Mrs. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story

More and more there are stories about young folks dealing with traumas from their childhood. Sometimes the stories makes me cringe. I wanted to have a prayer session (beat the living daylights out of them) with both parents. The overall story was about finding the freedom to be free of the pain inflicted upon them by unloving parents.

[Erika B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tattoo Your Name on My Heart

Amazing!!! ❤️ now this author is already a wonderful storyteller… but this book right here 🤯 if I had to describe this book in one word it would be growth 🙌🏾👏🏾💪🏾 jaw dropping moments, heart strings being pulled, and times that made me want to jump through the pages!! Phenomenal job to this author 👏🏾👏🏾❤️

[Alvina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heal

That was definitely one heck of a roller coaster ride for my emotions and while it was a bit triggering, it was such a heartfelt story.

Samara was strong and just didn't know it. While I understand her losing herself with partying and sex after her abuse, I'm glad she took the opportunity to start over and do better. Although it was harsh for her to hear, and he could've said it better, what Zavion told her about being a mom was just the extra push she needed to finally step into motherhood. I loved Samara's bubbly and carefree, loving spirit, yet she was very wise for her age. She could've continued down a horrible path, yet getting her life on track to be a dope tattoo artist and mother was her focus and she stuck to it.

I like that she wanted to help Zav. They had undeniable chemistry and they were good for each other.

Zavions story broke a piece of my heart with each new thing he revealed or learned about his childhood. His mom and dad weren't worthy of this jewel and I'm glad he let the pain go and allowed for Samara to help heal his heart. He was just a kid and his dad, Benny, was a monster for forcing him to do what he did. Karma gon hit him hard and I'm not even mad about it😏.

Even though he was emotionally detached, he was upfront with anyone he messed with, so I didn't understand what was up with that Marissa chick. I hope she gets the picture and moves all the way on 🤨.

Even with the way he came at Zav, I loved how Samara's cousin Markell was there for her. Her Uncle Lance was such a great man too and I hope all 3 of these men will continue to be a force for Samara and Zaya.

I'm eager to see if Jocelyn finds a match. She just wants love and I'm sure it's coming soon. I really liked her.

This was a really good read. Even though it was heavy, it had so much in it that you couldn't help but to root for Samara and Zavion to pull through stronger, healed and together.

Great read. Highly recommend.

[ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.85👍 good!

WhAt a great story
A complete book and it was a good example of overcoming darkness. This story also showed how love and the will to do a be more for others help you to overcome. S&Z both needed healing and to earn life from their past and in that we get a story. A bit of drama a dash of sex and a bunch of growth.

[Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Zavion and Samara had been thru so much that once they were able to form a connection they were able to be there for each thru their healing. I loved how this book touched on how to set and keep boundaries to protect your peace. I also like the solid adult friendships each of them had and were able to form as apart of them forming healthy relationships.

[Tazja Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED how this book and how well the author wrote this story. All of the dynamic traumas and the journey to healing, it was all so realistic. Although the book wasn’t too long, it didn’t feel rushed. Even the ending was more realistic. It was a HEA, but everything wasn’t peachy keen.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[WellReadRuby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Updated to 4.5! This is definitely hits different on audio!

Baby!! There was a lot going on here with these two! Zavion and Samara had baggage!! Beautiful story depicting two flawed characters trying to escape their demons and finding a love they never knew before in one another. Zavion had his hands full with Samara and he was a goner before he could walk away. We see in the first chapter his sexual interactions with women are very one sided and on for his pleasure, he doesn’t let the women touch him. Later in the story we get the full reason why but it’s interesting how he lets his guard down with Samara. Samara is running from her old life but realizes she can’t erase everything. Her demon really hit me because idk how I would’ve handled being in her shoes. Her emotions and reasons for acting out were valid. Although I hated Zavion for lashing out at Samara for her past, I understand he was projecting, i do feel like it kicked started Samara into getting her life together. Once she started she let Zavion know off rip he was needed to change to even be with her. Zavion realizes that if he wants to keep Samara in his life he has to also join her in better himself. I loved how the author took time to show character growth from both characters from beginning to end. They needed each other to start the process but learned that they also had to take a step back to figure their stuff out alone. Which is realistic! The author also takes us through their therapy appointments which shows how break through their struggles. I really enjoyed this read and would definitely recommend!

[Q. Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Mo'Nae I love how you brought two broken, unhealed souls together and it was powerful. The childhood that Zavion and Samara had been horrific. Samara did have some love in her life as-a-matter of-fact a lot from her uncle, aunt and cousin but Zavion not so much. It was really refreshing reading the healing process and the evolution of both characters. Their growth separately and together was nothing short of amazing.

This is a fantastic read, Ms. Mo'Nae put her blood, sweat, and tears in those pages. She made sure to create characters that tore at your heartstrings. She also did not leave out the drama and underlying issues. I most definitely recommend this book. I am looking forward to her next release. I am always checking for cameos and updates on previous characters. I am wondering will Markell get to tell his story next.

[Charlotte Bembry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good read!

A great story of two broken people who had trust, intimacy and family issues who came together and learned how to love. The character development of both Samara and Zavian was outstanding. They each grew into strong minded, loving individuals with the help of a therapist and each other. Samara’s mom was clueless and Zavian’s parents were worthless. Well written and interesting book.

[Chantal Jimenez · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟

This story was everything & more okay! The hurt Zav & Mara was definitely intense. I can say that trams can change you and def make your relationship hurt, and we don’t look to therapy because we assume people will judge us. I’m glad that samara brought out those feelings from Zav. I enjoyed this & can’t wait for the next release

[Lizzy Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was deep asf, but so good.

Queen Tay, this book was so deep and I most definitely related to Samara's story, except I didn't get pregnant🙏🏽. I love and appreciate authors who aren't afraid to step outside their norm and dig deep to write stories like these, despite the triggers.

Samara & Zavion were perfect for each other. Like granted they only started out with a sexual relationship but that changed so quickly. Their journey to HEA cake with a loot of ups and downs and a whole lot of tough love and therapeutic healing.

His momma, smh. But that dang Benny was a motherfudgesicklestix😡. Like that trifling a** sorry a** motherfudgesicklestix excuse for a man really thought the trauma he caused his son was ok. Which made me wonder what toe of childhood did he have🤔😔

Traci really only crated about Traci. In one breath she's all like "I'm sorry" then turns around and makes excuses for the ish she was doing. It's sad to say she reminded me of my mom and how she reacted after finding out what happened to me. Books like these help with my continued healing and it lets me know that I'm not some with feeling extra protective when it comes to my babies, especially my daughters.

I freakin loved me some Unc Lance and Auntie Eva💕.

[Monae Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two broken souls

This story was deep and emotional. My heart ached for Samara and Zav. They both were dealing with childhood trauma and they were just what the other needed. I loved watching how things unfolded for them. I especially loved watching Zav's layers being pulled back. Will there be a story on Jocelyn?

[DeNae Sheree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

This was a good book. I like the premise of two damaged individuals finding each other. I loved the relationship between Zav and Samara and the build up in their relationship. I like the addition of therapy and how it works played a role in their relationship. The growth between the couple was beautiful!

[Angelia Rhodes · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Heart

Wow, just wow!! These two have been through so much at the hands of people who should have been protectors. I really don't like their parents and Karma should have visited them all. My heart went out to Samaria and Zavion!! Two wounded hearts healing each other!!!

[The Urban Fiction Librarian · Rating 3 out of 5]

The storyline was good. Loved how the characters made each other better and healed from their childhood trauma together and on their own. I was confused throughout the entire book as to how old YaYa was. Also, if Samara and Zay never used protection how come she never got pregnant?

[Helen Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotions

I can't believe how this story made me feel. This authoress wrote this story where it kept you involved in every word she wrote. The substance of this story kept you enthralled in issues in which Zavion and Samara past. The only disappointment in this story is I got to the last page and the story ended. Magnificent read.

[Tonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tattooed

Samara mother Traci was a trip. Zav Father Benny and Mother was just hopeless. Zav and Mara needed each other for them to heal. Yaya was just amazing little girl

[Eve_choclate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book🥰🥰🥰🥰

[Yalonda D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I did the audio book for this story and whew, it was a ride! I have never read a book by Tay Monae but this book was good. There were so many components to this story. I enjoyed the readers!