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Cover of The crying heart tattoo

The crying heart tattoo

David Lozell Martin (1982)

SubgenreContemporary Romance
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingR
Pages (Quick Read (<250))
SettingContemporary Earth
CSM age18+
Goodreads4/5 (190)

Content levels

ViolenceMild
Sexual contentModerate
LanguageModerate

Synopsis

An international cult classic and a New York Times Notable Book of the Year, The Crying Heart Tattoo follows the unlikely romance between a young man and a woman more than twice his age. Beginning their relationship when Sonny is just fourteen and Felicity thirty-four, the couple share a poignant history together that ends only upon Felicity's passing -- despite four marriages, numerous obstacles, and enough misadventures to challenge the most loyal of lovers. At once heartbreaking and euphoric, their story mirrors the tale that Felicity has passed down to Sonny, a story uncanny in its similarity to their when a prehistoric outcast locates her former tribe, she falls in love with a young boy. A masterful novel first published a quarter of a century ago, The Crying Heart Tattoo keeps the impossible within reach, proving once and for all that the struggle for true love is worth everything.

Tags

Cult ClassicLiterary FictionMultigenerational Romancetransgressive fiction

The crying heart tattoo: content & age rating

Intended for adult readers (18+).

This novel depicts a romantic and sexual relationship that begins when the male protagonist is fourteen years old and his partner is thirty-four, raising significant concerns about the portrayal of an adult-minor relationship. Parents and readers should be aware of these themes before engaging with this book.

What to know going in

This book has mild violence, moderate sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include child abuse, dubious consent, and on-page sex.

Who'll love this

This book is intended for adults only and contains mature content not suitable for younger readers.