THE INK SLINGER (House of Ink 1) by Jade Marshall-review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 15, 2025

Laine has everything he’s ever wanted: a thriving tattoo business, a close-knit group of friends, and a family that’s always had his back. He’s content with his life, until one day, the woman of his fantasies enters his shop.

Hailey is a tattoo model with a story as complicated as the designs on her skin. She left her past behind, escaping a cheating ex and hitting the road to find herself. When she stumbles upon Laine’s tattoo parlor in the small town of Franklinton, Louisiana, she’s captivated not only by his artwork but by the undeniable connection between them.

But when her ex shows up, determined to win her back, Hailey has no choice but to enlist Laine into being her fake boyfriend. But what starts as a charade quickly becomes something far more complicated—and way more real—than either of them anticipated.

••••••

REVIEW: THE INK SLINGER is the first instalment in Jade Marshall’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF INK, erotic, romance series. This is tattoo model Hailey Meyer, and tattoo artist Laine Gray’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Hailey and Laine) THE INK SLINGER follows tattoo model Hailey Meyer’s arrival in small town Franklinton, Louisiana in the wake of a messy breakup. Having seen Laine Gray’s tattoo work online, Hailey is hoping for a one of a kind tattoo but the past refuses to let go, and Hailey struggles with the arrival of her abusive ex. Laine Gray knows immediately that Hailey is the woman that calls to his heart but Hailey is in need of protection, and along with his brothers, and the local sheriff, Hailey finds love and protection when she needs it the most.

The world building focuses on a new start for Hailey in the over protective town of Franklinton Louisiana. Hailey battles between head and heart having just walked away from her last relationship but something about Laine draws Hailey like a moth to a flame. the $ex scenes are intimate and passionate.

We are introduced to Laine’s brothers :Adam and his wife Lily, Damien, as well as their cousin and tattoo artist Alistair and his wife Skye; local sheriff Samuel, and Hailey’s ex Derick.

THE INK SLINGER is a fast paced, quick read: a story about starting over; betrayal and obsession, family and love. The premise is captivating ; the romance is provocative; the characters are determined and charismatic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy