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Scarred Beautiful
Love believes in second chances.
Francis Heller lives with two truths. Love hurts and beauty is only skin deep.
With midnight black hair, moss-colored eyes, and traceable curves, Fran is the picture of beauty and confidence...on the outside. But deep down she is tormented. Not just by the jagged scars that line her body, but by the horrible memories that cloud her mind and haunt her dreams. The ones that make her want to flee from herself and from the devastating pain. The ones that cause her to placate herself with sex. Anything to make her forget. But for Fran, there's nowhere to hide from the darkness that swallows her whole.
Matt Dixon is the gorgeous brother of her best friend's fiancée. He's suffered losses of his own and isn't willing to let anyone in until his unexpected encounter with Fran Heller, the girl who challenges him and causes him to take a second look, not only at her, but at his own life.
But Matt has scars of his own.
Together can they help each other discover that second chances really do exist? That love doesn't have to hurt? Or has the damage they've both suffered cut too deep to ever heal?
**NA/Contemporary Romance with language and mature sexual content.**
Francis Heller lives with two truths. Love hurts and beauty is only skin deep.
With midnight black hair, moss-colored eyes, and traceable curves, Fran is the picture of beauty and confidence...on the outside. But deep down she is tormented. Not just by the jagged scars that line her body, but by the horrible memories that cloud her mind and haunt her dreams. The ones that make her want to flee from herself and from the devastating pain. The ones that cause her to placate herself with sex. Anything to make her forget. But for Fran, there's nowhere to hide from the darkness that swallows her whole.
Matt Dixon is the gorgeous brother of her best friend's fiancée. He's suffered losses of his own and isn't willing to let anyone in until his unexpected encounter with Fran Heller, the girl who challenges him and causes him to take a second look, not only at her, but at his own life.
But Matt has scars of his own.
Together can they help each other discover that second chances really do exist? That love doesn't have to hurt? Or has the damage they've both suffered cut too deep to ever heal?
**NA/Contemporary Romance with language and mature sexual content.**
308 pages, Paperback
First published January 27, 2014
75 people are currently reading
1954 people want to read
About the author
Beth Michele
14 books952 followersBeth Michele is a USA Today & New York Times bestselling author of M/F and M/M Contemporary Romance who writes sweet, funny, and sexy (sometimes dirty) stories with heart...and snark. She can often be spotted hiding out with her laptop or kindle somewhere quiet, preferably on a bench overlooking the ocean. Swedish Fish and Twizzlers are her jam, and she makes a mean hot chocolate every day of the year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
July 29, 2016
2 stars
First I would like to profusely thank the author for giving me a copy of this book to read. It has a beautiful cover, enticing and catchy blurb so what more can a girl ask for?
Unfortunately, this book is not my cup of tea. If you are a fan of slow building romances or you just need a super cute and LIGHT read, then I would recommend this book to you. If not, you will probably feel like me when you're finished:
So what exactly did I not like?
>>How mundane the story is<<
I don't know about you, but after reading this book blurb I got the feeling that the story is pretty intense and an angsty second chance romance about how one girl heals emotionally and learns to love again after meeting the hero.
Well, no, that's not bad at all. But I didn't get that feeling here. Aside from the brief flashbacks of Fran's past here and there, this book is pretty much a chick flick. I'm not big on having both the heroine and hero see each other and immediately having thoughts about how/when/where to have sex. I need a story here. I'm not a reader who's driven by just hot sex (though that's fabulous hehe). I need a plot, something that serves as the basis of the story and I'm sorry to report that this book does not have that factor.
>>Fran<<
I tried connecting with her character. Honest, I really tried. At first, I could sympathize for her after reading about her terrible childhood, but after reading 5 chapters all that sympathy was gone. She is a pitiful character and though this is probably not what the author intended to portray her as, I found Fran to be one of the most self-absorbed and insincere characters ever.
"If I'm honest, even though I do miss Kyle, it's the gift he gave me that I miss most, loving me in spite of myself, despite my scars and my broken past."
Look. I get that she's insecure about her physical appearance because of said scars and I get that the way she received the scars is traumatizing but her reasons to love someone? To miss her former boyfriend Kyle? It's not so much she loves the person, she misses the way he accepts her scars because she can't. That is where my problem with her is...I was never convinced that Fran accepted and loved herself. In fact, it almost seemed like she was fishing for compliments and how vain is that?
"Remember when I was telling you that I lost someone special? Well, he just made me feel - special - in a way that no one else has before."
>>The endearments<<
Okay so by the time I finished the book I was sooooo over the endearments (including Fran's name).
1. Fran
2. Sweet Cheeks
3. Little Spark
4. Sunshine
5. Baby
6. Sweetie
So yeah...that's my take. Kisses book buddies! <3
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
First I would like to profusely thank the author for giving me a copy of this book to read. It has a beautiful cover, enticing and catchy blurb so what more can a girl ask for?
Unfortunately, this book is not my cup of tea. If you are a fan of slow building romances or you just need a super cute and LIGHT read, then I would recommend this book to you. If not, you will probably feel like me when you're finished:
So what exactly did I not like?
>>How mundane the story is<<
I don't know about you, but after reading this book blurb I got the feeling that the story is pretty intense and an angsty second chance romance about how one girl heals emotionally and learns to love again after meeting the hero.
Well, no, that's not bad at all. But I didn't get that feeling here. Aside from the brief flashbacks of Fran's past here and there, this book is pretty much a chick flick. I'm not big on having both the heroine and hero see each other and immediately having thoughts about how/when/where to have sex. I need a story here. I'm not a reader who's driven by just hot sex (though that's fabulous hehe). I need a plot, something that serves as the basis of the story and I'm sorry to report that this book does not have that factor.
>>Fran<<
I tried connecting with her character. Honest, I really tried. At first, I could sympathize for her after reading about her terrible childhood, but after reading 5 chapters all that sympathy was gone. She is a pitiful character and though this is probably not what the author intended to portray her as, I found Fran to be one of the most self-absorbed and insincere characters ever.
"If I'm honest, even though I do miss Kyle, it's the gift he gave me that I miss most, loving me in spite of myself, despite my scars and my broken past."
Look. I get that she's insecure about her physical appearance because of said scars and I get that the way she received the scars is traumatizing but her reasons to love someone? To miss her former boyfriend Kyle? It's not so much she loves the person, she misses the way he accepts her scars because she can't. That is where my problem with her is...I was never convinced that Fran accepted and loved herself. In fact, it almost seemed like she was fishing for compliments and how vain is that?
"Remember when I was telling you that I lost someone special? Well, he just made me feel - special - in a way that no one else has before."
>>The endearments<<
Okay so by the time I finished the book I was sooooo over the endearments (including Fran's name).
1. Fran
2. Sweet Cheeks
3. Little Spark
4. Sunshine
5. Baby
6. Sweetie
So yeah...that's my take. Kisses book buddies! <3
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2016
I got one word for you AMAZEBALLS !!!!!!!
Beth Michele truly knows how to write a story. She has the most amazing characters in this story and it is surely one you are not going to want to pass by.
What can I say about this author and this story? Beth Michele has become one of my favorite author’s. I have read every book to date that she has released. Scarred Beautiful might just be my favorite thus far.
Matt and Fran first met in Love Love, he is Brad’s brother and Fran is Gabby’s Best friend.
This story is full of, heartbreak, humor, love, happiness and so much more. You will fall in love with Fran and Matt I have no doubt at all.
Fran has to go to LA for a conference and Matt who lives right down the street from the conference decides to stay at the hotel for the conference instead of traveling back and forth. Plus it’s the Ritz who would not want to stay there.
Fran is awesome, I love her to pieces. She is independent, funny, and so smart. Although she wishes she could erase her past from her mind she cannot and she just lives day to day without love in her life. Fran grew up in an abusive household at the hands of her father. She also has a list of phobias as well. When Matt walks into her life things are about to change for Fran. Will she let Matt in? Can she move on from her past and what she has thought she deserved for all these years?
Matt, sexy, funny, caring, dreamy, romantic. He walks into Fran's life and nothing will be the same again for either of them. Matt has his own pain going on too. Matt has lost both his Mom and sister to Cancer. He was forced to take on the role of parent to his younger brother. Matt fears that if he loves he will end up losing that person he loves like he did his mom and sister. Will Fran be able to help him through his pain?
Has fate stepped in with these two people? Are they meant to be together? Can they both move on from their pasts and be happy together?
The relationship between these two characters is so awesome. I love the buildup and how everything played out with these two characters.
I cannot wait to see what Beth brings us next!!!!!
Got my ARC And I am honestly doing this
Is it to soon to say that I am excited for this one?
January 30, 2014
What a sweet sweet book!
Again my friend Beth writes these amazing books which make me want to fall in love all over again...
Books that make you believe that fairytales are possible.
Fran is a girl who is living but is not alive... She has demons in her past and the scars to prove it.
It keeps her away from being happy because no one will Love the ugliness right?
When Fran gets sent on a conference to LA, a short business trip and a small vacation she didn't know that her life as she knew it and doubted it, would never be the same.
Matt is handsome, smart, rich and has a dimple (you know how we girls love them!)
His the perfect guy. Work is his main focus and he doesn't really do relationships.
Matt and Fran know each other because Frans best friend Gabby is engaged to Matts brother.
When Matt and Fran start hanging out together... Something happens and they both feel things that they never thought they would.
Matt makes Fran face her fears and makes her see the beauty of life. That the past is just the past and sometimes the things you try so hard to hide are the things that make you beautiful.
And Fran helps Matt deal with his hurt and filling that space in his life...
No one said love has a time...
You never know when the person you meet is the other half to your heart.....
Thank you Beth for remembering me when giving out ARC's
February 11, 2014
There was a boy and girl, their names were Matt and Fran. They meet each other when her mate and his brother became couple.
One day, they meet again in the same hotel that both of them are staying for their conference.
Fran lusts for the Matt. Matt likes Fran too.
Then it's trouble in paradise, they help each other.
Finally, demons are banish, couple are come together.
And that was Scarred Beautiful. If you love fairytales, this book is yours.
Happy reading
D xo
**ARC provided for tour**
February 2, 2014
Wow! This book...so sweet and hot! Definitely my favorite of Beth Michele's books. Scarred Beautiful is a beautiful, funny, sad, sweet, happy, sexy and loving story.
Matt and Fran each had their own scars. Neither were looking for a relationship. But when the time was right, they would discover they were meant to be.
Matt and Fran met (in Love Love) when his brother, Brad, was in the hospital and Fran was there to support her best friend/Brad's girl, Gabby. But it wasn't quite their time.
Approximately 2 years later, Fran travels from New York to California for a conference. As it turns out, Matt is attending the same conference. Even though Matt lives nearby, he decides to stay at that hotel and runs into Fran at the hotel bar. She is quite FEISTY and immediately gets under his skin. But soon that becomes a quality he loves about her. Matt, having lost both his mother and sister to cancer, appreciates Fran in a way other men have not. And Fran, just being Fran, gets Matt to loosen up, live in the moment and not be such a tight-a$$! Both are confused about what is happening between the two of them--especially since Fran is only in CA for two weeks. But they realize this is their fate--that they are meant to be.
Beth Michele's writing is so good. I loved her characters--not just Matt and Fran, but their best friends and his "parents". The story was believable. And God, Matt was sooooo sweet. And HOT! But most importantly, he is your normal, everyday guy. (Not a billionaire. Not a tattoo'd biker. Just a normal guy.) And I LOVED him! Now I think Beth should write Peyton and Caleb's story!
Matt and Fran each had their own scars. Neither were looking for a relationship. But when the time was right, they would discover they were meant to be.
Matt and Fran met (in Love Love) when his brother, Brad, was in the hospital and Fran was there to support her best friend/Brad's girl, Gabby. But it wasn't quite their time.
Approximately 2 years later, Fran travels from New York to California for a conference. As it turns out, Matt is attending the same conference. Even though Matt lives nearby, he decides to stay at that hotel and runs into Fran at the hotel bar. She is quite FEISTY and immediately gets under his skin. But soon that becomes a quality he loves about her. Matt, having lost both his mother and sister to cancer, appreciates Fran in a way other men have not. And Fran, just being Fran, gets Matt to loosen up, live in the moment and not be such a tight-a$$! Both are confused about what is happening between the two of them--especially since Fran is only in CA for two weeks. But they realize this is their fate--that they are meant to be.
Beth Michele's writing is so good. I loved her characters--not just Matt and Fran, but their best friends and his "parents". The story was believable. And God, Matt was sooooo sweet. And HOT! But most importantly, he is your normal, everyday guy. (Not a billionaire. Not a tattoo'd biker. Just a normal guy.) And I LOVED him! Now I think Beth should write Peyton and Caleb's story!
February 4, 2014
Beth Michele does it again!
Beautifully written and engaging from the very first page, I genuinely believe that this is the best of Beth!
Fran led a deeply troubled childhood, of which she still bares the Physical and Emotional scars. We are taken back and given a glimpse of how her scars came about. It was a raw and emotional insight which really made me sad for her both as a scared little girl and the independent woman she would become. Fran is a perfect example of how, if we let them, our scars can wear us and define our actions. She is also an amazing example of how you can overcome the hurts of your past and become a strong woman. Beautiful on the inside and out and also one of the luckiest girls because she meets Matt!!
Matt isn't without his past hurts. He knows all to when how your past can affect your future but he recognises the inner beauty in Fran and finds that when he's with her, the world seems a brighter place. Of course, this books makes for great reading because Matt is HOT! Cute, funny, thoughtful, quirky and has a dirty mouth!
It is clear that these guys, from the offset, had something special as well as undeniable chemistry. I really enjoyed seeing their relationship develop in to something truly beautiful. You actually feel them grow as they bring out the best in each other and work through their insecurities and fears.
The whole story is heartbreaking, heartwarming, quirky, sexy and just all round brilliance. It has the perfect balance of everything. This is a definite feel good book. You feel uplifted and positive when you have finished, satisfied knowing that these 2 imaginary characters will live happily ever after. Although I loved Fran and Matt (I didn't love one more than the other either.) I also loved Peyton and Caleb too. It would be fabulous if they could have their own book to pleeease (Beth, take note!)
Beautifully written and engaging from the very first page, I genuinely believe that this is the best of Beth!
Fran led a deeply troubled childhood, of which she still bares the Physical and Emotional scars. We are taken back and given a glimpse of how her scars came about. It was a raw and emotional insight which really made me sad for her both as a scared little girl and the independent woman she would become. Fran is a perfect example of how, if we let them, our scars can wear us and define our actions. She is also an amazing example of how you can overcome the hurts of your past and become a strong woman. Beautiful on the inside and out and also one of the luckiest girls because she meets Matt!!
Matt isn't without his past hurts. He knows all to when how your past can affect your future but he recognises the inner beauty in Fran and finds that when he's with her, the world seems a brighter place. Of course, this books makes for great reading because Matt is HOT! Cute, funny, thoughtful, quirky and has a dirty mouth!
It is clear that these guys, from the offset, had something special as well as undeniable chemistry. I really enjoyed seeing their relationship develop in to something truly beautiful. You actually feel them grow as they bring out the best in each other and work through their insecurities and fears.
The whole story is heartbreaking, heartwarming, quirky, sexy and just all round brilliance. It has the perfect balance of everything. This is a definite feel good book. You feel uplifted and positive when you have finished, satisfied knowing that these 2 imaginary characters will live happily ever after. Although I loved Fran and Matt (I didn't love one more than the other either.) I also loved Peyton and Caleb too. It would be fabulous if they could have their own book to pleeease (Beth, take note!)
February 12, 2014
Beth Michele has done it again! She has made me fall hopelessly in love with another one of her books. This book was at top of my to read list. Another book I was patiently waiting for. It certainly paid off. This book stayed with me long after I read it. This book was sweet and Heartfelt. It made me smile more times than I could count. The characters were wonderful, ones I wouldn't mind spending the day with.
Fran is the loveable best friend from Love Love. We learn in Scarred Beautiful that Fran has some serious demons which stem from her childhood. She has also suffered great loss and is trying her hardest live her life. She attends a conference for work where she runs into her best friends other halves beautiful brother, Matt. He has suffered some loss too! Their mutual attraction is undeniable. They decide to enjoy the time they can spend together before Fran has to o back to her life in New York. They learn that being together may be the one thing to heal both of their scars for good. Can these two damaged hearts heal together and become one?
I loved this story as a whole. I felt connected to it from beginning to end. Fran and Matt shared something real and special. I was so glad to see that they were the focus of this book. I also loved the other characters introduced cue "Caleb". I would love for him to get his own book. This was a true and romantic story. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I would recommend Michelle's first book because it is equally wonderful and also where it all began. Thank you Beth for letting me experience Fran and Matt's story. I loved it!!!
Fran is the loveable best friend from Love Love. We learn in Scarred Beautiful that Fran has some serious demons which stem from her childhood. She has also suffered great loss and is trying her hardest live her life. She attends a conference for work where she runs into her best friends other halves beautiful brother, Matt. He has suffered some loss too! Their mutual attraction is undeniable. They decide to enjoy the time they can spend together before Fran has to o back to her life in New York. They learn that being together may be the one thing to heal both of their scars for good. Can these two damaged hearts heal together and become one?
I loved this story as a whole. I felt connected to it from beginning to end. Fran and Matt shared something real and special. I was so glad to see that they were the focus of this book. I also loved the other characters introduced cue "Caleb". I would love for him to get his own book. This was a true and romantic story. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I would recommend Michelle's first book because it is equally wonderful and also where it all began. Thank you Beth for letting me experience Fran and Matt's story. I loved it!!!
February 1, 2014
3.5 Stars
I loved the prologue and I like the way the story started and where it was all going. Then somewhere around 35%, I wasn’t sure what was going on with the characters. I started questioning the hero and heroine’s relationship.
The writing was good. There was not a lot of inner dialogue. It was not wordy. My issue was with the characters. I hoped that Matt would be more alpha in the relationship. We get dual POVs in this story so you know Matt’s thoughts about himself, his friends, and Fran. I know he found Fran attractive, but there were a lot of things that “turned” him off about her and one was her drinking. She did drink a lot and it was not a one time “my friends took me out.” I understood that she had a difficult childhood and certain things she wanted to escape, but when she realizes she is slurring her words, it was not cute and needed to stop.
Sometimes the relationship felt forced. It was a nice story. I loved how they initially meet; I love how they later connect after having their chance meeting in the airport, and how they both have things that hold them back. However, I think it was behavior of the heroine that turned me off at certain parts of the book.
A copy was given by the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the prologue and I like the way the story started and where it was all going. Then somewhere around 35%, I wasn’t sure what was going on with the characters. I started questioning the hero and heroine’s relationship.
The writing was good. There was not a lot of inner dialogue. It was not wordy. My issue was with the characters. I hoped that Matt would be more alpha in the relationship. We get dual POVs in this story so you know Matt’s thoughts about himself, his friends, and Fran. I know he found Fran attractive, but there were a lot of things that “turned” him off about her and one was her drinking. She did drink a lot and it was not a one time “my friends took me out.” I understood that she had a difficult childhood and certain things she wanted to escape, but when she realizes she is slurring her words, it was not cute and needed to stop.
Sometimes the relationship felt forced. It was a nice story. I loved how they initially meet; I love how they later connect after having their chance meeting in the airport, and how they both have things that hold them back. However, I think it was behavior of the heroine that turned me off at certain parts of the book.
A copy was given by the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2014
I think Scarred Beautiful is my favorite of Beth Michele's books. So far.
After losing both his mom and his sister to breast cancer, Matt is left with half a heart and the internal scars left behind. He was forced to grow up fast and take on the responsibility of his younger brother. This led to an almost compulsive need for perfection.
After suffering horrible childhood abuse, and the loss of a loved one, Fran is left with only half her heart, external scars at her father's hands, and a countless list of phobias.
During a work conference, Matt and Fran get reacquainted. As they spend more and more time together, they begin to feel as if the missing pieces can be filled by one another. Matt, so set in his ways and his need for perfection, falls hard for Fran. Fran, a loud, slightly obnoxious wild girl who is flawed both inside and out falls just as easily for tight-ass Matt. Their story is sexy and fun, heartwarming, and devastating all at once. And it's absolutely beautiful.
I enjoyed every last line of this wonderfully written love story of healing, forgiveness, and finding your other half.
Love believes in second chances.
After losing both his mom and his sister to breast cancer, Matt is left with half a heart and the internal scars left behind. He was forced to grow up fast and take on the responsibility of his younger brother. This led to an almost compulsive need for perfection.
After suffering horrible childhood abuse, and the loss of a loved one, Fran is left with only half her heart, external scars at her father's hands, and a countless list of phobias.
During a work conference, Matt and Fran get reacquainted. As they spend more and more time together, they begin to feel as if the missing pieces can be filled by one another. Matt, so set in his ways and his need for perfection, falls hard for Fran. Fran, a loud, slightly obnoxious wild girl who is flawed both inside and out falls just as easily for tight-ass Matt. Their story is sexy and fun, heartwarming, and devastating all at once. And it's absolutely beautiful.
I enjoyed every last line of this wonderfully written love story of healing, forgiveness, and finding your other half.
Love believes in second chances.
January 28, 2014
4.5 Stars
Fran is a young, smart, savvy business woman who is scarred. Physically and mentally. She fights against the raging currents in her mind to keep her memories buried. She has established core relationships with her friends and she is on the fast track for her career. The one time she allowed herself to love a man; her heart was broken into a million pieces. And just like Humpty Dumpty, no one could put Fran together again.
“I forgive you…and now I want you to forgive yourself..”
She has some phobias, closed spaces, fear of flying to mention two of them. She has to fly from her New York where she lives to a conference in LA. She is sweating bullets and whining to her roommate and fellow co-worker Peyton. She is just the kick in the ass Fran needs to move past the barriers that cripple her. Fran gets herself on the plane, sits next to a hottie and has a slight meltdown in front of him. Ryan helps talk her through it; they go their separate ways once the plane lands. Peyton surprised Fran by showing up at the conference and the two head for the hotel bar. Fran hears her name, and the owner of the sexy voice with an even sexier body is Matt Dixon, her best friend, Gabby’s soon to be brother-in-law. (We were introduced to these characters in Love, Love).
Matt finds himself intrigued by Fran’s sassy attitude and she keeps him on his toes. They end up spending some time together as he lives in LA and is at the same set of meetings.
“Don’t get out much, huh?” I laugh, giving him a shoulder bump. “Well, when my movie collection calls…it’s hard to resist,” he replies on a shrug.
His co-worked and best friend, Caleb hits it off with Peyton and the foursome has a great time partying and hanging out. They send each other the cutest little texts.
Do you have plans tonight? Want to meet up at the bar later?
Let me check my busy schedule.
Tick Tock. I’m waiting, sunshine.
Looks like my schedule is clear.
But hard as she is trying, Fran’s abusive past keeps crosses paths with her present life. Matt senses something is off, but Fran is reluctant to open up to him about the scars she keeps hidden and the way she got them. Matt has known loss himself; he lost both his sister and his mom to breast cancer. He has avoided relationships and has focused on his ever expanding wealth.
Can these two souls open up their hearts again? If Fran takes a chance on Matt and show him those parts of herself she hates, will he be repulsed and turn away like those before him? Can she take that risk again?
“Jesus Christ, Fran. Who did that to you?”
This is a sweet, heart breaking story. The abuse that Fran suffered is gut wrenching. She is such an enigma; smart and funny and yet so introverted with her pain. Matt is so compassionate and so enamored by Fran, and he is the perfect ying to her yang. This is a wonderful read!
So hey there, little spark
I hope you like fairytales with happy endings.
Fran is a young, smart, savvy business woman who is scarred. Physically and mentally. She fights against the raging currents in her mind to keep her memories buried. She has established core relationships with her friends and she is on the fast track for her career. The one time she allowed herself to love a man; her heart was broken into a million pieces. And just like Humpty Dumpty, no one could put Fran together again.
“I forgive you…and now I want you to forgive yourself..”
She has some phobias, closed spaces, fear of flying to mention two of them. She has to fly from her New York where she lives to a conference in LA. She is sweating bullets and whining to her roommate and fellow co-worker Peyton. She is just the kick in the ass Fran needs to move past the barriers that cripple her. Fran gets herself on the plane, sits next to a hottie and has a slight meltdown in front of him. Ryan helps talk her through it; they go their separate ways once the plane lands. Peyton surprised Fran by showing up at the conference and the two head for the hotel bar. Fran hears her name, and the owner of the sexy voice with an even sexier body is Matt Dixon, her best friend, Gabby’s soon to be brother-in-law. (We were introduced to these characters in Love, Love).
Matt finds himself intrigued by Fran’s sassy attitude and she keeps him on his toes. They end up spending some time together as he lives in LA and is at the same set of meetings.
“Don’t get out much, huh?” I laugh, giving him a shoulder bump. “Well, when my movie collection calls…it’s hard to resist,” he replies on a shrug.
His co-worked and best friend, Caleb hits it off with Peyton and the foursome has a great time partying and hanging out. They send each other the cutest little texts.
Do you have plans tonight? Want to meet up at the bar later?
Let me check my busy schedule.
Tick Tock. I’m waiting, sunshine.
Looks like my schedule is clear.
But hard as she is trying, Fran’s abusive past keeps crosses paths with her present life. Matt senses something is off, but Fran is reluctant to open up to him about the scars she keeps hidden and the way she got them. Matt has known loss himself; he lost both his sister and his mom to breast cancer. He has avoided relationships and has focused on his ever expanding wealth.
Can these two souls open up their hearts again? If Fran takes a chance on Matt and show him those parts of herself she hates, will he be repulsed and turn away like those before him? Can she take that risk again?
“Jesus Christ, Fran. Who did that to you?”
This is a sweet, heart breaking story. The abuse that Fran suffered is gut wrenching. She is such an enigma; smart and funny and yet so introverted with her pain. Matt is so compassionate and so enamored by Fran, and he is the perfect ying to her yang. This is a wonderful read!
So hey there, little spark
I hope you like fairytales with happy endings.
February 4, 2014
ARC Was Given to Blog for Honest Review
Nothing makes me happier than when I am reading a book and I get more out of it than just a great story. Beth takes us on an emotional journey with such positive life lessons throughout, that you can’t help but come out of reading this book a new positive person; who vows to be every ounce of the strong, amazing woman you know you were meant to be.
Now I know I usually talk about the main characters and how they affected me and the story, but I feel like I need to take a different approach with this review. How many times as women, have we heard “Beauty is only skin deep.” “You have to love yourself before you can love anyone else.” And “Strength comes from within.” We hear these motivational quotes but unless we are actually experiencing them first hand, we don’t really take the time to fully appreciate the power of their words or the true effect it could have on your life if you choose to live by them and really act on them. That, for me, is the true story behind Scarred Beautiful. Don’t get me wrong, there is a great love story here. The way Fran and Matt are together, and how they fix each other without realizing it. The way they are the strength and safety net for one another, to really want to better themselves and the back and forth banter between them, it’s a journey worth taking.
However, the emotional journey to self discovery that Fran and Matt make separately, with the help of one another and the lessons they learned; that, to me, was the real story.
Beth Michele hits the mark with this book of fate, hope, and love. I was honored to be able to take this journey and my hope is that you all take it as well. It’s not one to miss out on.
Nothing makes me happier than when I am reading a book and I get more out of it than just a great story. Beth takes us on an emotional journey with such positive life lessons throughout, that you can’t help but come out of reading this book a new positive person; who vows to be every ounce of the strong, amazing woman you know you were meant to be.
Now I know I usually talk about the main characters and how they affected me and the story, but I feel like I need to take a different approach with this review. How many times as women, have we heard “Beauty is only skin deep.” “You have to love yourself before you can love anyone else.” And “Strength comes from within.” We hear these motivational quotes but unless we are actually experiencing them first hand, we don’t really take the time to fully appreciate the power of their words or the true effect it could have on your life if you choose to live by them and really act on them. That, for me, is the true story behind Scarred Beautiful. Don’t get me wrong, there is a great love story here. The way Fran and Matt are together, and how they fix each other without realizing it. The way they are the strength and safety net for one another, to really want to better themselves and the back and forth banter between them, it’s a journey worth taking.
However, the emotional journey to self discovery that Fran and Matt make separately, with the help of one another and the lessons they learned; that, to me, was the real story.
Beth Michele hits the mark with this book of fate, hope, and love. I was honored to be able to take this journey and my hope is that you all take it as well. It’s not one to miss out on.
January 29, 2014
I’m so happy about “Scarred Beautiful,” and now that it’s released, I finally get to post my review for it!
As you might know by now, I’m not much for revealing story lines in books—as a reader I hate it when a review gives details I’d rather learn as I go. Which is why I’m diving right into the top six “wow”-factors that made me all giddy:
1) Great writing. This is a big one for me.
2) Fran’s smartass attitude and blunt appreciation of a hot guy. I kept laughing out loud at her sassy thoughts!
3) The setting. I used to live in L.A., and Beth Michele lets me lose myself in the fairytale-gorgeous (yet real) sides of Los Angeles.
4) To not appear obsessed, I’m burying this in the middle of my “wows:” man, there’s some STEAMING hot sex in this book! Even E.L. James and Katy Evans wouldn’t want to change a thing on these scenes. LOVE!
5) Matt: this man is hotness incarnate. Trust me.
6) Fran’s best friend Peyton and her lust-at-first-sight relationship keep me entertained throughout the entire book. Now, I really want to read a book about her! Beth, pretty please?
7) Okay, I know. I said I’d list my six top “wows,” but I can’t help this one: Matt’s best friend’s parents. Oh My Freaking God! They are absolutely hilarious—and so damn cute!
I could keep prattling on and on, but—long story short—“Scarred Beautiful” is a stunning (and did I mention hot???) love story I recommend with all my heart.
As you might know by now, I’m not much for revealing story lines in books—as a reader I hate it when a review gives details I’d rather learn as I go. Which is why I’m diving right into the top six “wow”-factors that made me all giddy:
1) Great writing. This is a big one for me.
2) Fran’s smartass attitude and blunt appreciation of a hot guy. I kept laughing out loud at her sassy thoughts!
3) The setting. I used to live in L.A., and Beth Michele lets me lose myself in the fairytale-gorgeous (yet real) sides of Los Angeles.
4) To not appear obsessed, I’m burying this in the middle of my “wows:” man, there’s some STEAMING hot sex in this book! Even E.L. James and Katy Evans wouldn’t want to change a thing on these scenes. LOVE!
5) Matt: this man is hotness incarnate. Trust me.
6) Fran’s best friend Peyton and her lust-at-first-sight relationship keep me entertained throughout the entire book. Now, I really want to read a book about her! Beth, pretty please?
7) Okay, I know. I said I’d list my six top “wows,” but I can’t help this one: Matt’s best friend’s parents. Oh My Freaking God! They are absolutely hilarious—and so damn cute!
I could keep prattling on and on, but—long story short—“Scarred Beautiful” is a stunning (and did I mention hot???) love story I recommend with all my heart.
February 18, 2014
What can I say about Scarred Beautiful?
Well in one word….. BREATHTAKING!
I fell in love with this story from the first page and I was hooked. It is one of those un -putdownable books, it’s not often I fall in love with a book from page one but I really did with this one.
The character and story line development are beautifully written and flow perfectly, the pace of the story is perfect, you don’t miss anything, you don’t have to re read anything.
This book is filled with moments that made me laugh and also that made me want to cry but I sort of held it together… sort of..
So beautiful and will leave you wanting more.
Highly Recommended
Well in one word….. BREATHTAKING!
I fell in love with this story from the first page and I was hooked. It is one of those un -putdownable books, it’s not often I fall in love with a book from page one but I really did with this one.
The character and story line development are beautifully written and flow perfectly, the pace of the story is perfect, you don’t miss anything, you don’t have to re read anything.
This book is filled with moments that made me laugh and also that made me want to cry but I sort of held it together… sort of..
So beautiful and will leave you wanting more.
Highly Recommended
February 3, 2014
I loved this book!!! It left me smiling :)
February 17, 2014
Absolutely loved that Beth went outside the norm with this story. Bravo to her!
May 11, 2020
Where do I even start?! Once I met Fran in Love Love I knew that I needed to know more about her. So I was happy that she got her own book. The same goes for Matt. Everything I knew from him was from his brother Brad. I just knew that Fran and Matt had this connection. I was glad to see them together and that they got to know each better. Matt was so good for Fran. He also was good for her too. He took his time with Fran and knew that she needed some time letting him in. I love that Fran helped Matt in letting go and not be so serious. Fran and Matt just worked together. They found the other half their heart. 😊 I was so happy for them! This book definitely got me in ALL the feels. The ending was absolutely beautiful! ⚡️💙☀️
August 2, 2022
Je découvre la plume de Beth Michele avec ce roman et j'ai été charmée par ce récit qui nous permettra de découvrir deux héros qui apprendront à se connaître et à se découvrir. Le passé a forgé nos héros et on espère qu'ils pourront enfin être heureux.
Bref, je me suis laissée charmer par cette douce romance qui va se construire pas à pas et qui prend son temps. J'aime quand les personnages ne se précipitent pas vers une délivrance certes salvatrice mais qui arrive parfois trop vite. Ici, l'autrice pose les bases d'un récit qui deviendra addictif au fil des pages et qui saura nous conquérir.
Avis complet à lire sur: https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
Bref, je me suis laissée charmer par cette douce romance qui va se construire pas à pas et qui prend son temps. J'aime quand les personnages ne se précipitent pas vers une délivrance certes salvatrice mais qui arrive parfois trop vite. Ici, l'autrice pose les bases d'un récit qui deviendra addictif au fil des pages et qui saura nous conquérir.
Avis complet à lire sur: https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
February 10, 2014
Melanie's 5 BIG Stars Review:
Ok, I abso-friggin-lutely LOVED this book!!! The all caps are an understatement as to how much Fran and Matt's story compelled me from beginning to end. I have a ridiculous smile on my face and have to shake my head in disbelief at how lucky I got when I signed up for this blog tour.
Scarred Beautiful has one of the most entertaining all around book cast I've ever encountered. Peyton, the snarky and sassy friend- the back and forth dialogue between her and Fran had me giggling. Their friendship felt so real, I wanted IN that friendship! Then we get the carefree, lovable playboy, Caleb- he complimented Matt so perfectly. Each the optimal wingman for one another. These two gave me tons of LOL moments as well. Mad mad praise to Beth Michele for creating such amazing supporting characters- the kind that leaves a reader hoping that they get their own stories as well. She was able to engage my interest in these secondary characters without drowning the hero and heroine out. That's honestly, a difficult thing to do but she executed it perfectly!
Fran was a dream come true heroine. Though both emotionally and physically damaged, she is the epitome of a survivor. The kind of woman who you would be proud to have on your corner. With looks to weaken knees and a sharp wit to go along with it, any man would be damned if she ever crossed his path... No way he'd escape unscathed. Then we have our hero, Matt, whom I completely fell head over heels for. I love that he was successful in what he was most passionate about, it shows that when he loves something, he goes for it in all aspects of his life. He was genuine and the author presented this so well. None of his actions nor decisions were forced, everything was seamless. With looks and dark secrets to rival the heroine, Beth Michele gives her readers the best of both worlds- she makes us pull for Fran and Matt to make it through the darkness and finally break into the light.
I read this entire book through the mini screen of my iPhone since my Kindle decided to give out on me...But you know what? It was not even one ounce of a bit painful because I could not put this down. I ignored text messages because I refused to close out my kindle app to get to them. The love story that unfolds between Matt and Fran is one of beauty. Though each are far from being free of flaws, together, they somehow cancel all of those out. Each are a cure to one another. I guarantee you will fall in love with their story and you will be thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I hope Beth Michele continues their story because quite frankly, one book was just not enough. A greedy book enthusiast who begs for more must mean the book kicked ass... Scarred Beautiful did just that. Littered with witty banter, lovable characters, and swoon worthy moments, you too will be begging for more.
Beth Michele
Ok, I abso-friggin-lutely LOVED this book!!! The all caps are an understatement as to how much Fran and Matt's story compelled me from beginning to end. I have a ridiculous smile on my face and have to shake my head in disbelief at how lucky I got when I signed up for this blog tour.
Scarred Beautiful has one of the most entertaining all around book cast I've ever encountered. Peyton, the snarky and sassy friend- the back and forth dialogue between her and Fran had me giggling. Their friendship felt so real, I wanted IN that friendship! Then we get the carefree, lovable playboy, Caleb- he complimented Matt so perfectly. Each the optimal wingman for one another. These two gave me tons of LOL moments as well. Mad mad praise to Beth Michele for creating such amazing supporting characters- the kind that leaves a reader hoping that they get their own stories as well. She was able to engage my interest in these secondary characters without drowning the hero and heroine out. That's honestly, a difficult thing to do but she executed it perfectly!
Fran was a dream come true heroine. Though both emotionally and physically damaged, she is the epitome of a survivor. The kind of woman who you would be proud to have on your corner. With looks to weaken knees and a sharp wit to go along with it, any man would be damned if she ever crossed his path... No way he'd escape unscathed. Then we have our hero, Matt, whom I completely fell head over heels for. I love that he was successful in what he was most passionate about, it shows that when he loves something, he goes for it in all aspects of his life. He was genuine and the author presented this so well. None of his actions nor decisions were forced, everything was seamless. With looks and dark secrets to rival the heroine, Beth Michele gives her readers the best of both worlds- she makes us pull for Fran and Matt to make it through the darkness and finally break into the light.
I read this entire book through the mini screen of my iPhone since my Kindle decided to give out on me...But you know what? It was not even one ounce of a bit painful because I could not put this down. I ignored text messages because I refused to close out my kindle app to get to them. The love story that unfolds between Matt and Fran is one of beauty. Though each are far from being free of flaws, together, they somehow cancel all of those out. Each are a cure to one another. I guarantee you will fall in love with their story and you will be thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I hope Beth Michele continues their story because quite frankly, one book was just not enough. A greedy book enthusiast who begs for more must mean the book kicked ass... Scarred Beautiful did just that. Littered with witty banter, lovable characters, and swoon worthy moments, you too will be begging for more.
Beth Michele
February 3, 2014
ARC Was Given To Blog For An Honest Review
This is one of those stories that remind us of the lessons instilled in us growing up; beauty is only skin deep. It does not matter how beautiful you are on the outside if you have ugly inside of you. It is unfortunate that many of us measure ourselves on what other people think and sometimes do not believe we are just as beautiful as the models that we see on covers of magazines. We often let what is on the outside define us and we hide.
What caught my attention in this story, right from the beginning, was how the author portrayed the female lead, Fran. She took us back to Fran’s childhood and it made me gasp and cry for the little Fran. We are then brought forward to find that Fran is gorgeous on the outside and inside, and has become a strong, independent woman who has made herself successful and has also found love with someone that accepted her, scars and all. Fran has a great job, great friends and is now trying to find out if she can survive after the loss of her first love. It’s humbling to watch her throughout this story as she struggles to bare her physical and emotional scars again, and take a chance.
Matt made me want to just curl up with him, hug him, and never let him go. His patience and understanding showed more beauty to me than the physical description by the author. Matt is the type of man that every woman should have a chance to meet at least once in her lifetime. He has been dealt a pretty crappy hand in his life too. He lost some of his family and that loss brings him sadness every day. He bares emotional scars that have caused him to be a bit of a control freak.
These two characters were made for each other.
Fran and Matt’s scars are worn differently but they bare them just the same. By the end of the story I truly became a believer that our lost loved ones are watching out for us.
Fran and Matt were so much fun to read about. They made me laugh and they had incredible chemistry, emotionally as well as physically. Matt has a great dirty mouth and I love that in male characters I read about; this is a huge turn on for me. The anticipation leading to them finally having sex left me panting. They just seemed to get each other. This relationship moves pretty quickly (time wise) and I know some people do not like that but I love it. I am all for the saying, “when you know, you know.” I believe there is no time limit that you need to have, to be in love.
This story met all of my needs: it flowed beautifully, you feel as if you get to know each character really well; even the supporting ones (I want a spinoff story for Caleb!) It had its conflict but not crazy conflict. It was ultimately a story of a relationship from beginning to happy ending. We got to watch it grow and blossom, and believe in love, and remember that our scars do not have to define us. We can wear them proudly because it shows we survived.
This is one of those stories that remind us of the lessons instilled in us growing up; beauty is only skin deep. It does not matter how beautiful you are on the outside if you have ugly inside of you. It is unfortunate that many of us measure ourselves on what other people think and sometimes do not believe we are just as beautiful as the models that we see on covers of magazines. We often let what is on the outside define us and we hide.
What caught my attention in this story, right from the beginning, was how the author portrayed the female lead, Fran. She took us back to Fran’s childhood and it made me gasp and cry for the little Fran. We are then brought forward to find that Fran is gorgeous on the outside and inside, and has become a strong, independent woman who has made herself successful and has also found love with someone that accepted her, scars and all. Fran has a great job, great friends and is now trying to find out if she can survive after the loss of her first love. It’s humbling to watch her throughout this story as she struggles to bare her physical and emotional scars again, and take a chance.
Matt made me want to just curl up with him, hug him, and never let him go. His patience and understanding showed more beauty to me than the physical description by the author. Matt is the type of man that every woman should have a chance to meet at least once in her lifetime. He has been dealt a pretty crappy hand in his life too. He lost some of his family and that loss brings him sadness every day. He bares emotional scars that have caused him to be a bit of a control freak.
These two characters were made for each other.
Fran and Matt’s scars are worn differently but they bare them just the same. By the end of the story I truly became a believer that our lost loved ones are watching out for us.
Fran and Matt were so much fun to read about. They made me laugh and they had incredible chemistry, emotionally as well as physically. Matt has a great dirty mouth and I love that in male characters I read about; this is a huge turn on for me. The anticipation leading to them finally having sex left me panting. They just seemed to get each other. This relationship moves pretty quickly (time wise) and I know some people do not like that but I love it. I am all for the saying, “when you know, you know.” I believe there is no time limit that you need to have, to be in love.
This story met all of my needs: it flowed beautifully, you feel as if you get to know each character really well; even the supporting ones (I want a spinoff story for Caleb!) It had its conflict but not crazy conflict. It was ultimately a story of a relationship from beginning to happy ending. We got to watch it grow and blossom, and believe in love, and remember that our scars do not have to define us. We can wear them proudly because it shows we survived.
March 26, 2014
I greatly appreciate an author’s ability to captivate my complete attention within the first few pages of a book. I love being taken over by a phenomenal read. I was absolutely hooked from the start of Scarred Beautiful and could not put it down until I read the final word. This was a truly outstanding romance with plenty of angst and tension mixed with dark elements and steamy passion.
The prologue sets this story up with a moment in Fran Heller’s childhood. The words lead you to believe the worst and readers know she suffered growing up. Fran’s horrific memories are still leaking in and stealing her joy everyday. For a brief year she thought joy was in her future but like the rest of her life, she quickly realizes happiness has an expiration date. Now Fran finds herself afraid, scarred, and suffocated by the horrendous flashbacks. Her past is drowning her but it is time for change.
Matt Dixon has his fair share of life altering tragedies. Coping hasn’t been easy but he has finally managed to find a balance that brings him peace… kind of. The moment Fran walks back into his life, Matt discovers he hasn’t been living at all. He immediately wants more, which includes a double serving of Fran. Ironically they are both lodging at the same hotel and attending the same conference. Ten days is plenty of time to let loose and have fun. Will that really be enough though?
Fran is an inspiration. She has reason to be defeated but managed to become very successful. Even though Fran is plagued with fears, she keeps pushes forward. As Matt and Fran get to know each other, their chemistry and connection grows stronger with each interaction. Her feisty attitude brings out the best in Matt. His charm gives her confidence she severely lacks. Even with the power their bond has, both keep secrets hidden behind solid walls.
Fran is hiding more than memories and if she wants to give Matt a real chance, she will have to allow him to see the scars. Her support system is outstanding yet she struggles with completely exposing herself. The information they discover about one another was heavy at times. It is clear Matt and Fran desire peace from the past that haunts them. Their flirty banter brings light to their journey. If they didn’t live on opposite coasts, their relationship could stand a chance at forever.
I am crazy over this novel! The transitions are seamless and placed at optimal points in the story to provide the best progression. Experiencing their journey from both views was fantastic since Matt and Fran go through huge transformations. Their character development was wonderful to read! They impact each other significantly and it's obvious they were in desperate need of each other... no matter how much they tried to resist at first!
Happy reading!
The prologue sets this story up with a moment in Fran Heller’s childhood. The words lead you to believe the worst and readers know she suffered growing up. Fran’s horrific memories are still leaking in and stealing her joy everyday. For a brief year she thought joy was in her future but like the rest of her life, she quickly realizes happiness has an expiration date. Now Fran finds herself afraid, scarred, and suffocated by the horrendous flashbacks. Her past is drowning her but it is time for change.
Matt Dixon has his fair share of life altering tragedies. Coping hasn’t been easy but he has finally managed to find a balance that brings him peace… kind of. The moment Fran walks back into his life, Matt discovers he hasn’t been living at all. He immediately wants more, which includes a double serving of Fran. Ironically they are both lodging at the same hotel and attending the same conference. Ten days is plenty of time to let loose and have fun. Will that really be enough though?
Fran is an inspiration. She has reason to be defeated but managed to become very successful. Even though Fran is plagued with fears, she keeps pushes forward. As Matt and Fran get to know each other, their chemistry and connection grows stronger with each interaction. Her feisty attitude brings out the best in Matt. His charm gives her confidence she severely lacks. Even with the power their bond has, both keep secrets hidden behind solid walls.
Fran is hiding more than memories and if she wants to give Matt a real chance, she will have to allow him to see the scars. Her support system is outstanding yet she struggles with completely exposing herself. The information they discover about one another was heavy at times. It is clear Matt and Fran desire peace from the past that haunts them. Their flirty banter brings light to their journey. If they didn’t live on opposite coasts, their relationship could stand a chance at forever.
I am crazy over this novel! The transitions are seamless and placed at optimal points in the story to provide the best progression. Experiencing their journey from both views was fantastic since Matt and Fran go through huge transformations. Their character development was wonderful to read! They impact each other significantly and it's obvious they were in desperate need of each other... no matter how much they tried to resist at first!
Happy reading!
February 14, 2014
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I gave this book 5 stars.
This is the first book that I have read by Beth Michele.
This is Fran and Matt's story.
Fran is a beautiful young lady that is scarred on the inside as well as the outside. Her life has been anything but normal. She has been hurt by one of the people you are suppose to trust the most. And now Fran has her walls high, and is not going to let anyone in.
Matt has lost two of the closest people in his life to him. He is hurt and devastated and his life will never be the same. He refuses to let anyone else in, he is afraid if he loves again he will lose again.
Matt and Fran meet at a conference in L.A. Matt lives in L.A. but Fran is from New York. She knows Matt because her best friend is dating Matt's brother Brad. They bump into each other at the conference and all bets are off. Instant sparks! Can they get past the hurts in their lives to let the walls down and learn to love again?
I have been in a book funk for a few weeks. I have read all that I am suppose to read, but there always seems to be something missing. I found it again in this book! This was surprisingly perfect! There wasn't the instant lets go and have sex. OR the I LOVE YOU! It was like I was back in High School and falling for my first love. The butterflies the feelings that you get when you see the guy that you know you just have to date. But in Adult format. I loved the feelings I got reading this and the excitement. I connected with both of these characters. I loved them!
The writing in this book is exceptional. The way she describes things and the way she writes a scene is amazing. She had me sucked in and wanting more. I never wanted the book to end. Beth is for sure headed for the big time. If she does not get snagged up by a publishing company there is something wrong with this world. I look forward to reading more of her work.. I went and one clicked all the other books that she had for sale. I am going to be a fan for life! Thank you Beth for your beautiful book. A book about loving someone for what is inside of them, learning that even after you lose so much there is always a second chance. Fate has plans for you in your life. And when they finally come around you find it is the most beautiful thing ever.
February 4, 2014
I first met Fran Heller as Gabby’s best friend in Beth Michele’s debut novel, Love Love. She was a feisty thing, but slightly broken on the inside from a traumatic and abusive childhood. In Scarred Beautiful, (a follow up to Love Love but can be read as a standalone) she’s still got that little bit of spark, but after experiencing another tragedy she’s closed herself off from most of the world, and has resigned herself to the fact that she’ll never be fully and truly happy. Despite being beautiful, she thinks the physical scars that she hides from everyone make her damaged goods for any man to be able to love her.
Matt Dixon lost a lot of important people in his life. He craves a lot of order to feel like he’s in control, making him what Fran refers to as a “tight-ass” when they run into each other at a design conference. Fran and Matt are only together for a week, but they start sharing things with each other that they never felt they could have shared with anyone else. Their time together is short, but they make a believable and very strong connection because they were both damaged and broken in their own ways. Having that in common made it easier to let each other in so quickly. Also didn’t hurt that the sexual tension between Fran and Matt intensified with every page.
I loved Matt. He may be in my top ten list of book boyfriends. Fran did peg him correctly as sort of a control freak, but he was sweet, funny, and unbelievably hot (his bedroom talk pretty much did me in). I liked seeing how Matt grew and changed because he started wanting Fran so badly, even with the emotional baggage she carried and the fact she lived on the opposite end of the country. That it made him see all the things in his life that were wrong, no matter how well organized they were.
“You make me want, Fran. You brought me hope…but most of all…you brought me back to life.”
Fran is one of my favorite heroines. She’s vulnerable, but at the same time pretty tough. Matt helps her heal, and makes her start wanting things too and thinking maybe a life of just surviving doesn’t have to be her only future. But do they believe a future together enough to fully put their issues from the past aside and really try?
Matt Dixon lost a lot of important people in his life. He craves a lot of order to feel like he’s in control, making him what Fran refers to as a “tight-ass” when they run into each other at a design conference. Fran and Matt are only together for a week, but they start sharing things with each other that they never felt they could have shared with anyone else. Their time together is short, but they make a believable and very strong connection because they were both damaged and broken in their own ways. Having that in common made it easier to let each other in so quickly. Also didn’t hurt that the sexual tension between Fran and Matt intensified with every page.
I loved Matt. He may be in my top ten list of book boyfriends. Fran did peg him correctly as sort of a control freak, but he was sweet, funny, and unbelievably hot (his bedroom talk pretty much did me in). I liked seeing how Matt grew and changed because he started wanting Fran so badly, even with the emotional baggage she carried and the fact she lived on the opposite end of the country. That it made him see all the things in his life that were wrong, no matter how well organized they were.
“You make me want, Fran. You brought me hope…but most of all…you brought me back to life.”
Fran is one of my favorite heroines. She’s vulnerable, but at the same time pretty tough. Matt helps her heal, and makes her start wanting things too and thinking maybe a life of just surviving doesn’t have to be her only future. But do they believe a future together enough to fully put their issues from the past aside and really try?
February 3, 2014
4.5 stars!
On the outside Fran is a young, successful, professional. Hidden underneath her layers Fran is scarred. Dealing with an abusive childhood and a sudden devastating loss, she is just trying to make it day to day without having more panic attacks. Meeting Matt an a conference in LA puts a spark back in her eyes that hasn't been there in a very long time. Matt has faced devastating losses as well. Yet, together they seem to find the joy in living again.
I was pleasantly surprised with this book! The synopsis had me thinking that I would be reading a really sad and depressing book. This wasn't the case AT ALL. Instead, Scarred Beautiful was quirky, sweet, and fun. There were definitely serious underlying topics... but they were spread throughout the book. It was a perfect mix of emotional and light fun. This book had me smiling from page one. The descriptions were colorful and the conversations were fun.
The dual point of view's gave us great insight into both of the main characters. Matt is such a sweetheart - always thinking of Fran. He was so understanding, loving, and caring. Every time Fran had a panic attack, Matt was sincerely worried about her and came to sooth her. He really was a perfect book boyfriend. I was also happy that Matt's wealth wasn't flaunted. No big, oversized gifts or impractical dates. At the end of the day he was just a successful guy dating a successful girl.
All of the characters had great depth and I especially enjoyed the two sidekicks - Caleb and Peyton. They were the perfect friends, offering advice, encouragement, and lighthearted conversation. In addition, the introduction of family characters was handled really well - I loved the family conversations. So often in books the family is ignored while the main couple falls in love in some sort of bubble where nothing else exists. It's nice to see caring family members as a part of this story.
In the end this book was both meaningful and fun. What a great fairytale ending for these two special characters! 4.5 bright stars for Scarred Beautiful! This was my first Beth Michele book... but it definitely won't be my last. I have already been browsing Amazon for her previous titles.
On the outside Fran is a young, successful, professional. Hidden underneath her layers Fran is scarred. Dealing with an abusive childhood and a sudden devastating loss, she is just trying to make it day to day without having more panic attacks. Meeting Matt an a conference in LA puts a spark back in her eyes that hasn't been there in a very long time. Matt has faced devastating losses as well. Yet, together they seem to find the joy in living again.
I was pleasantly surprised with this book! The synopsis had me thinking that I would be reading a really sad and depressing book. This wasn't the case AT ALL. Instead, Scarred Beautiful was quirky, sweet, and fun. There were definitely serious underlying topics... but they were spread throughout the book. It was a perfect mix of emotional and light fun. This book had me smiling from page one. The descriptions were colorful and the conversations were fun.
The dual point of view's gave us great insight into both of the main characters. Matt is such a sweetheart - always thinking of Fran. He was so understanding, loving, and caring. Every time Fran had a panic attack, Matt was sincerely worried about her and came to sooth her. He really was a perfect book boyfriend. I was also happy that Matt's wealth wasn't flaunted. No big, oversized gifts or impractical dates. At the end of the day he was just a successful guy dating a successful girl.
All of the characters had great depth and I especially enjoyed the two sidekicks - Caleb and Peyton. They were the perfect friends, offering advice, encouragement, and lighthearted conversation. In addition, the introduction of family characters was handled really well - I loved the family conversations. So often in books the family is ignored while the main couple falls in love in some sort of bubble where nothing else exists. It's nice to see caring family members as a part of this story.
In the end this book was both meaningful and fun. What a great fairytale ending for these two special characters! 4.5 bright stars for Scarred Beautiful! This was my first Beth Michele book... but it definitely won't be my last. I have already been browsing Amazon for her previous titles.
February 6, 2014
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you went on a business trip and found the love of your life? Doesn't that sound like something amazing?
Well that is what happens to Fran. Fran travels to sunny Los Angeles, California for a business conference. There she runs into Matt, who she acquainted with, due to her best friend being engaged to Matt's brother. As luck would have it, Matt is also staying at the same hotel for the same conference.
Fran is a super sweet, smart, down to earth girl. She has had a tough childhood. Her father was abusive.It has left her with permanent scars. Fran has not let her past define her future. I love her! She is independent and funny! Fran has these crazy phobias that make her even more likable. Cause after all, aren't we all a little quirky? I wish more lead female characters could be like Fran!
Then there is Matt. Straight-laced professional male. Hot. Sexy. Caring. Romantic. And hurting. Matt has lost both his mom and sister to breast cancer. He is still grieving their loss, but at the same time had to become a man to take care of his little brother. It has made Matt who he is today. Matt has built up walls after losing the women in his life. Fran seems to be breaking them down.
Fran is only in California for a short time. She doesn't put much thought in a relationship with Matt. She has decided to let go and have fun.. and maybe a fling. Matt is uptight, but Fran seems to be helping him loosen up. She makes him live and be a little more carefree. He no longer is the up tight/no fun having guy he once was thanks to Fran. She is living in the moment and making Matt do the same. It seems like they have both met their soul mate. But how can that be when they live on separate coasts?
This is the first Beth Michele book that I have read. You can totally read this as a stand alone. After reading Scarred Beautiful, I had to go back and read Beth's others. She is a fantastic writer. Her books with have you laughing and crying. They will leave you happy and then deep in thought. Her books are so realistic. I could totally see Fran and Matt's situation happening to a friend. It would be a great story to tell your kids!!
January 28, 2014
I was up and down while reading this book. It was cute and sweet and heavy at times. I was expecting the heaviness to be a huge weight to bare but it wasn't. It was almost a minute part of the story when I was expecting it to be huge. Small things here and there were dropped about the abuse Fran suffered but I kept wanting more. She seemed to be so messed up in her head, being away from family, losing her love in a sad way. The one person who saw past her ugliness
Much of this book is a group of friends thrown together during a conference, all the while having fun. Two of the main characters Fran and Matt know each other b/c Matt is her best friends fiancé. The had pretty instant chemistry, there was a small spark but you knew she was holding back. I was hoping their flirting would evolve more as they got to know each other but it just stayed on one level.
Heck, the guy she met on the plane seemed to draw more of a flirtatious way from her.
Now once the cat was out of the bag this turned into more of a NA book as to before it felt very very YA even though the ages of the characters were almost 30 something adults. It was as if two different books were happening and then all of a sudden they crashed together. The way Matt reacted when knew everything was adorable. The words he said and how he comforted Fran was so nice to read. He was kind and caring and not in any type of grossed out shock.
"Do you know what beauty is to me, Fran? It's not wrapped up in porcelain skin and eyes that sparkle. It's the human spirit that shines through when cancer comes knocking...A soul that remains hopeful in the face of devastation...that's the most beautiful thing on earth."
On a side note about other characters in the book. Caleb was a hit and so were his parents!! Mr. and Mrs. Brody CRACKED me up every time I read about them!!!
I do have a fave part to... and I won't give anything away because it happens at the end but it is so unique and I promise you'll go AWWWWW!! Definitely giving this character and high five!!!!!
My rating 3 stars.
Much of this book is a group of friends thrown together during a conference, all the while having fun. Two of the main characters Fran and Matt know each other b/c Matt is her best friends fiancé. The had pretty instant chemistry, there was a small spark but you knew she was holding back. I was hoping their flirting would evolve more as they got to know each other but it just stayed on one level.
Heck, the guy she met on the plane seemed to draw more of a flirtatious way from her.
Now once the cat was out of the bag this turned into more of a NA book as to before it felt very very YA even though the ages of the characters were almost 30 something adults. It was as if two different books were happening and then all of a sudden they crashed together. The way Matt reacted when knew everything was adorable. The words he said and how he comforted Fran was so nice to read. He was kind and caring and not in any type of grossed out shock.
"Do you know what beauty is to me, Fran? It's not wrapped up in porcelain skin and eyes that sparkle. It's the human spirit that shines through when cancer comes knocking...A soul that remains hopeful in the face of devastation...that's the most beautiful thing on earth."
On a side note about other characters in the book. Caleb was a hit and so were his parents!! Mr. and Mrs. Brody CRACKED me up every time I read about them!!!
I do have a fave part to... and I won't give anything away because it happens at the end but it is so unique and I promise you'll go AWWWWW!! Definitely giving this character and high five!!!!!
My rating 3 stars.
February 5, 2014
4.5 Stars
Beth Michele has a new book out and it is fabulous!!! SCARRED BEAUTIFUL is such a sweet, and sexy, and emotional read that I got completely consumed in and fell head over heels in love with the characters.
Matt Dixon and Francis Heller meet by chance one night in hotel bar. Both living with their own personal scars that have threatened to ruin any kind of relationship they may have wanted in the past. Horrific events from Fran's childhood have left her body marred by jagged scars, whereas, after losing jis family, Matt wears his scars on his heart.
I really loved this book. The characters and the story were so well brought to life that I couldn't help but feel things as the characters did. From both Fran and Matt describing their pasts, to the intimate, sexy moments the couple shared together (what a joy they were to experience!!), the love they felt from and for their families, and the budding emotions they felt as they spent more time together.
As I said before, Fran suffered horrific things as a child at the hands someone who should have kept her safe. As the story goes on, we are given hints as to what happened but it's not until much further in that we find out exactly what happened, and that was just a very small comment in a conversation, and I think had it been told in a more detailed discussion, rather than in passing, it would have added to the emotional element for me.
I loved watching Fran and Matt's relationship develop. They were perfect for each other and it was just so sweet! And boy, do they know how to do the dirrty! This book is S.E.X.Y.
I was a fan of Beth Michele's previous novel LOVELY, though for me I was let down with the epilogue. But in SCARRED BEAUTIFUL she absolutely nailed it! I could not be in the slightest bit happier with how this book ended. As I read the last words I was grinning through tears of pure joy.
SCARRED BEAUTIFUL is the perfect read for those who love books about broken characters who find out that love can outshine the darkness that surrounds them, if only they give it a chance.
A beautiful novel from a talented author.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Beth Michele has a new book out and it is fabulous!!! SCARRED BEAUTIFUL is such a sweet, and sexy, and emotional read that I got completely consumed in and fell head over heels in love with the characters.
Matt Dixon and Francis Heller meet by chance one night in hotel bar. Both living with their own personal scars that have threatened to ruin any kind of relationship they may have wanted in the past. Horrific events from Fran's childhood have left her body marred by jagged scars, whereas, after losing jis family, Matt wears his scars on his heart.
I really loved this book. The characters and the story were so well brought to life that I couldn't help but feel things as the characters did. From both Fran and Matt describing their pasts, to the intimate, sexy moments the couple shared together (what a joy they were to experience!!), the love they felt from and for their families, and the budding emotions they felt as they spent more time together.
As I said before, Fran suffered horrific things as a child at the hands someone who should have kept her safe. As the story goes on, we are given hints as to what happened but it's not until much further in that we find out exactly what happened, and that was just a very small comment in a conversation, and I think had it been told in a more detailed discussion, rather than in passing, it would have added to the emotional element for me.
I loved watching Fran and Matt's relationship develop. They were perfect for each other and it was just so sweet! And boy, do they know how to do the dirrty! This book is S.E.X.Y.
I was a fan of Beth Michele's previous novel LOVELY, though for me I was let down with the epilogue. But in SCARRED BEAUTIFUL she absolutely nailed it! I could not be in the slightest bit happier with how this book ended. As I read the last words I was grinning through tears of pure joy.
SCARRED BEAUTIFUL is the perfect read for those who love books about broken characters who find out that love can outshine the darkness that surrounds them, if only they give it a chance.
A beautiful novel from a talented author.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
January 3, 2015
4.5 stars
Sizzling Heat!
Reading Beth Michele is like having that perfect piece of chocolate after a long day! I love they way she is really putting the "romance" back into contemporary romance novels. Scarred Beautiful took me by surprise and I loved every page, Beth Michele truly topped herself with this book!
If you are thinking that Scarred Beautiful is going to be a dark romance, think again. This is novel about two adults who have had life leave them with scars, both emotionally and physically, and learning that sometimes you have to risk your heart and open yourself up to find love. Fran is feisty and full of spark on the outside, but on the inside she is still trying to put the pieces life has left her in back together. She has quirks, phobias and insecurities, but I loved her character and found myself rooting for her the entire book. I wanted her to find her happy. Matt was the perfect compliment to Fran. He had to grow up faster than anyone should have to and has used control and structure to rule his life until Fran shows him that letting go (especially of that stick he is so fond of) and being spontaneous is what life is all about. Watching Matt fall for Fran was really beautiful and I loved getting inside his head with the dual POV of this book.
I fell in love with Scarred Beautiful instantly! I knew I would get a great read from Beth Michele but I found myself getting a book that truly touched my heart and had me falling in love with Matt and Fran! I didn't want the book to end (and I am secretly hoping for more if Peyton and Caleb get their story). Beth Michele is brilliant at creating heart tugging, emotional stories without crazy drama and intense angst, they are truly romantic stories about two people falling in love. Scarred Beautiful will leave you with a happy heart and a huge smile on your face (maybe some tears from the romance of it all too)!
If you are looking for a love story that has romance, wit and heart melting sweetness with a side of heat, then you absolutely must get Scarred Beautiful!
Sizzling Heat!
Reading Beth Michele is like having that perfect piece of chocolate after a long day! I love they way she is really putting the "romance" back into contemporary romance novels. Scarred Beautiful took me by surprise and I loved every page, Beth Michele truly topped herself with this book!
If you are thinking that Scarred Beautiful is going to be a dark romance, think again. This is novel about two adults who have had life leave them with scars, both emotionally and physically, and learning that sometimes you have to risk your heart and open yourself up to find love. Fran is feisty and full of spark on the outside, but on the inside she is still trying to put the pieces life has left her in back together. She has quirks, phobias and insecurities, but I loved her character and found myself rooting for her the entire book. I wanted her to find her happy. Matt was the perfect compliment to Fran. He had to grow up faster than anyone should have to and has used control and structure to rule his life until Fran shows him that letting go (especially of that stick he is so fond of) and being spontaneous is what life is all about. Watching Matt fall for Fran was really beautiful and I loved getting inside his head with the dual POV of this book.
I fell in love with Scarred Beautiful instantly! I knew I would get a great read from Beth Michele but I found myself getting a book that truly touched my heart and had me falling in love with Matt and Fran! I didn't want the book to end (and I am secretly hoping for more if Peyton and Caleb get their story). Beth Michele is brilliant at creating heart tugging, emotional stories without crazy drama and intense angst, they are truly romantic stories about two people falling in love. Scarred Beautiful will leave you with a happy heart and a huge smile on your face (maybe some tears from the romance of it all too)!
If you are looking for a love story that has romance, wit and heart melting sweetness with a side of heat, then you absolutely must get Scarred Beautiful!
September 4, 2016
**ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review**
Scarred Beautiful is a heartwarming read that leaves you warm and fuzzy. I would also describe it as a nice sweet treat. The prologue is emotional and I loved the way the story began. Francis Heller is a successful design manager. Fran is confident and has a beautiful appearance, but she's hiding some painful scars both emotionally and physically that many people don't know about. Fran meets sexy Matt Dixon while on a business trip to California. They happen to be both attending the same conference. Fran and Matt recognize each other since Matt's brother is engaged to Fran's best friend. The two flirt and eventually hang out. They quickly realize that they share a connection and feelings begin to surface during the conference. The story is slow moving and allows you to get caught up in these two. I felt the giddiness between Matt & Fran when there is that initial physical attraction.
But the story does have some dark moments as both Matt and Fran are emotionally scarred and have each suffered loss. We learn throughout the story the abuse that Fran suffered as a child. They are both somewhat broken and I loved how they are able to heal and help each other overcome their issues. The connection between the two is believable. Although they both fought it, I really liked how Matt was able to see through Fran and realize that she was hurting. Matt is incredible. He's loving and caring and there's no wonder Fran fell for him as quickly as she did. There is a special moment toward the end that they both share and I found was a great addition to their story.
I've come to enjoy Beth Michele's books. She writes beautiful touching stories with meaning. She incorporates family into her stories which just adds to the realness of the story and characters.
Scarred Beautiful is a heartwarming read that leaves you warm and fuzzy. I would also describe it as a nice sweet treat. The prologue is emotional and I loved the way the story began. Francis Heller is a successful design manager. Fran is confident and has a beautiful appearance, but she's hiding some painful scars both emotionally and physically that many people don't know about. Fran meets sexy Matt Dixon while on a business trip to California. They happen to be both attending the same conference. Fran and Matt recognize each other since Matt's brother is engaged to Fran's best friend. The two flirt and eventually hang out. They quickly realize that they share a connection and feelings begin to surface during the conference. The story is slow moving and allows you to get caught up in these two. I felt the giddiness between Matt & Fran when there is that initial physical attraction.
But the story does have some dark moments as both Matt and Fran are emotionally scarred and have each suffered loss. We learn throughout the story the abuse that Fran suffered as a child. They are both somewhat broken and I loved how they are able to heal and help each other overcome their issues. The connection between the two is believable. Although they both fought it, I really liked how Matt was able to see through Fran and realize that she was hurting. Matt is incredible. He's loving and caring and there's no wonder Fran fell for him as quickly as she did. There is a special moment toward the end that they both share and I found was a great addition to their story.
I've come to enjoy Beth Michele's books. She writes beautiful touching stories with meaning. She incorporates family into her stories which just adds to the realness of the story and characters.
January 30, 2014
I was lucky to have this book gifted by Beth and what a gift it was! I devoured this book! Beth knows how to write romantic stories!
Fran (Gabby's best friend from book love love) and Matt (Brad's brother) run into each other in a conference and their story begins.
Fran is a really smart girl, feisty, who speaks her mind but also hides a vulnerable side. She has to live with a broken heart and a past that haunts her. Here comes Matt, the most caring, sensitive man. Matt is a little bit control freak with a need for an organized life but he couldn't know that Fran would make him forget all the rules. While they got reacquainted, a sweet relationship was formed. They helped each other overcome their insecurities and love sneaked upon them. I really loved Matt! He was really supportive, protective and so romantic!
Not to forget the supportive characters, like Peyton and Caleb, their best friends (pretty please Beth write a story about them) and Caleb's parents! They were amazing!
Overall, I really loved this book! It is a story told from both pov, something that always makes me happy! It is a fairytale a little bit hotter with romantic scenes, sexy scenes, emotional scenes that gripped my heart! Every girl deserves a hea and Fran found in Matt her prince who made her forget her scars and got her beautiful end! Cannot wait for more!
Fran (Gabby's best friend from book love love) and Matt (Brad's brother) run into each other in a conference and their story begins.
Fran is a really smart girl, feisty, who speaks her mind but also hides a vulnerable side. She has to live with a broken heart and a past that haunts her. Here comes Matt, the most caring, sensitive man. Matt is a little bit control freak with a need for an organized life but he couldn't know that Fran would make him forget all the rules. While they got reacquainted, a sweet relationship was formed. They helped each other overcome their insecurities and love sneaked upon them. I really loved Matt! He was really supportive, protective and so romantic!
Not to forget the supportive characters, like Peyton and Caleb, their best friends (pretty please Beth write a story about them) and Caleb's parents! They were amazing!
Overall, I really loved this book! It is a story told from both pov, something that always makes me happy! It is a fairytale a little bit hotter with romantic scenes, sexy scenes, emotional scenes that gripped my heart! Every girl deserves a hea and Fran found in Matt her prince who made her forget her scars and got her beautiful end! Cannot wait for more!
February 11, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is a read that deals with abuse, so it's not for the heavy hearted unless you can take it. I've read such dark romance that I think I might be immune to these reads that brush upon the subject of abuse very lightly. I say that because this was just an alright read for me.
We start with Fran Heller who has been living in New York but goes to Los Angeles for a convention for work. While there, she runs into her best friend's fiance's brother, Matt Dixon... Did you get all that? What begins as a flirtation and good natured teasing becomes a whole new ball game. They both discover that they have each gone through some loss or something was taken from them. This is how they bond and grow as a couple.
Overall, I think it's a good read with a nice little HEA. It's definitely a 3.5 STARS out of 5 STARS. I think it's something that a lot of readers can read without being too deep, but the subject matter just felt too light for me. The book was very slow at times, but experience it yourself! Go read it and let me know what you think!
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Read by Taryn Lee on January 29, 2014
Reviewed by Taryn Lee on February 10, 2014
http://facebook.com/tarynleesblog
This is a read that deals with abuse, so it's not for the heavy hearted unless you can take it. I've read such dark romance that I think I might be immune to these reads that brush upon the subject of abuse very lightly. I say that because this was just an alright read for me.
We start with Fran Heller who has been living in New York but goes to Los Angeles for a convention for work. While there, she runs into her best friend's fiance's brother, Matt Dixon... Did you get all that? What begins as a flirtation and good natured teasing becomes a whole new ball game. They both discover that they have each gone through some loss or something was taken from them. This is how they bond and grow as a couple.
Overall, I think it's a good read with a nice little HEA. It's definitely a 3.5 STARS out of 5 STARS. I think it's something that a lot of readers can read without being too deep, but the subject matter just felt too light for me. The book was very slow at times, but experience it yourself! Go read it and let me know what you think!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Read by Taryn Lee on January 29, 2014
Reviewed by Taryn Lee on February 10, 2014
http://facebook.com/tarynleesblog
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