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Every Scar Tells a Story

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They say time heals all wounds, but they never mention the scars eft behind.

Six years ago, Serena’s world was turned upside down by a car accident that tore her family apart. Now, only months away from graduation, her sole focus is escaping her small town for a fresh start.

Knox has survived by remaining invisible and taking life one day at a time. But all that changes when a chance encounter with Serena upends his carefully guarded world.

As their worlds collide and the ghosts of Knox’s past resurface, more than their bond will be tested. Now, every decision made could be the difference between a future together or facing a reality where neither survives.

Rayna York crafts a profoundly moving story about the strength of love, the power of healing, and the importance of facing our demons to find happiness. Perfect for young adult fans of Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover and Until Friday Night by Abbi Glines.

Captivating and soul-stirring, Every Scar Tells a Story is ideal for readers searching for:
• Mature Young Adult Books
• Love Stories With A Dark Past
• Complex Emotional YA Characters
• Contemporary Novels With Trauma/Healing
• Unputdownable & Binge-Worthy Reads
• Dual POVs

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 15, 2024

6 people are currently reading
110 people want to read

About the author

Rayna York

4 books62 followers
Rayna York grew up with hippie parents that moved a lot. Where change was the norm, books were her constant—a way to escape. As an adult, many careers came and went, but writing has always been her passion. Her books tend to be based on dreams, and since that’s the way inspiration strikes, she wakes up every morning and writes them in her notebook with barely an eye open. When she’s not tucked away in her writing shack, she’s pursuing other passions, like chocolate, reading, or movies/TV series.

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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Nessa’s Book Reviews.
1,427 reviews67 followers
June 7, 2024
Title: Every Scar Tells a Story by Rayna York

Release Date: June, 15th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

"Every Scar Tells a Story" by Rayna York is a profound and emotionally resonant novel that delves into the complexities of love, healing, and the courage required to confront one's past.

York's masterful storytelling weaves together the lives of Serena McNeal and Knox, two individuals from vastly different worlds whose paths intertwine in unexpected and life-altering ways.

Serena, with her outgoing and ambitious nature, is eager to leave her small town behind, dreaming of a future filled with possibilities. Knox, on the other hand, is a figure of mystery, preferring the shadows and finding solace in his anonymity. Their meeting is not just a collision of two worlds but a catalyst for change, as they are forced to confront the ghosts of Knox's troubled past.

York's exploration of their evolving relationship is both tender and intense, showcasing the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds. However, it's not just a tale of romance; it's a journey of self-discovery and the realisation that facing one's demons is essential for finding true happiness.

The narrative is rich with themes of resilience, the strength found in vulnerability, and the scars that, though they may never fully disappear, can be transformed into badges of courage.

The author's ability to create characters who are deeply flawed yet utterly relatable is a testament to her skill. Serena and Knox are more than just protagonists in a love story; they are symbols of hope and the enduring human spirit. Their journey is fraught with challenges, each decision they make fraught with the potential to either unite them or tear them apart.

"Every Scar Tells a Story" is a beautifully written novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of their past or the fear of an uncertain future. It's a reminder that while time may heal wounds, the scars we carry are not just reminders of our battles but also maps to our resilience.

Thank you to The Publisher Toad Tree Press ,The Author Rayna York & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Nikki | Nikkimariereads.
340 reviews8 followers
June 19, 2024
Every Scar Tells a Story by Rayna York
Release Date: 6/15/24
Format: ebook
Rating: loved it!!

Huge thank you to @raynayorkauthor for the arc of this fabulous book! I love a good story of young love & angst and this book certainly had both in just the right doses!

First off, the characters in this novel are precious and must be protected at all costs! Even many of our supporting characters are so well developed and add so much depth to the story being told. I loved Rhett and all of Serena’s nursing home friends so much!

This book has romance, mystery, action, and also tackles a lot of tough subjects without feeling like there is too much going on! It’s a quick read with lots of depth to keep you engaged.

Every Scar Tells a Story really digs into the hardships that young folks can face and is a moving and vulnerable novel that captures the beauty of resilience and growth. Highly recommend checking it out!! 🖤
Profile Image for Fi.
28 reviews
August 21, 2024
Had a really nice time reading this book! All the love between all the pain is insanely good. The perfect combination. And so much reality! But the most caltivating part is Rayna York's writing.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,887 reviews214 followers
June 16, 2024


Amazon



Serena's in her last year of school when she locks eyes with a mysterious figure who instantly intrigues her. But she's not long for this small town, has her eye on her future, a future that's not going to be here. Oh and the little fact that she has a boyfriend. An asshole boyfriend, but a boyfriend nonetheless.

Knox very deliberately does not give pieces of himself. There's too much both in his past and his present that have given him scars to trust anyone with his heart. But something about Serena draws him in and he wants to let himself be vulnerable to her. If only his life didn't get in their way.

I'm the first to admit I don't read much YA fiction, but Serena and Knox's story really isn't like the kind I've previously read. Not only are they both mature and complicated and layered, there's none of the obnoxious "it's all about me" attitudes most teens tend to display (with the exception of one of the characters, who of course we don't like). The mental health rep is top notch, and handled with extreme care, especially in Knox's POV. There's a bit of angst, but it's not ott, there's some suspense, but at its core, their story is a beautiful tale of first love.



ARC provided by Xpresso Book Tours for an honest review.

Review / Book Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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Profile Image for Angela.
88 reviews2 followers
June 10, 2024
Rayna York's Every Scar Tells a Story is a heartwarming and compelling novel that beautifully captures the complexities of love, healing, and the lasting effects of our pasts. Set in a small town, Rayna's narrative shines with richly developed characters and an engaging storyline that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.

Serena McNeal is an ambitious and outgoing young woman eager to leave her small town behind after graduation. In contrast, Knox is a mysterious figure who prefers to stay hidden in the shadows, haunted by a troubled past. Their unexpected meeting sparks a powerful connection, but as Knox's past resurfaces, their bond faces intense challenges. Rayna skillfully portrays their evolving relationship, weaving a tale that is both tender and intense.

Rayna's writing delves deeply into the emotional lives of her characters, highlighting how their histories influence their present and future. The chemistry between Serena and Knox is electric, and their journey is filled with moments of joy, heartache, and resilience. The book perfectly balances these emotional highs and lows, making it impossible to put down.

One of the standout themes in "Every Scar Tells a Story" is the notion that while time may heal wounds, the scars left behind are a testament to what has been endured. Rayna's prose is evocative and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences and the stories their scars tell.

The story is expertly paced, with each chapter seamlessly building on the last. Rayna's lyrical yet accessible writing style draws readers into Serena and Knox's world, making their struggles and triumphs feel incredibly real. The supporting characters add depth and authenticity to the story, enriching the narrative.

Every Scar Tells a Story is more than just a romance; it's a powerful exploration of human resilience and the capacity for love and healing. Rayna York has crafted a novel that is both emotionally resonant and uplifting, leaving readers with a sense of hope and a deeper appreciation for the scars that shape us.

Every Scar Tells a Story is a must-read for anyone looking for a moving and beautifully written story about love, redemption, and the enduring impact of our pasts. Rayna York has delivered a remarkable novel that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page.

A special thanks to Toad Tree Press & NetGalley for gifting me an ARC of this amazing book!!!!!
Profile Image for Tam.
Author 28 books294 followers
June 16, 2024
Rayna York has an uncanny ability for getting inside the heads of adolescents and young adults. Her characters are believable, their emotions young and raw, their choices not always considered but always honest.

In Every Scar Tells a Story, Serena thinks she has everything figured out: she’s going to college on an academic scholarship; the old people at the care home where she works are hilarious; she can ignore her boyfriend’s red flags because he’s so handsome and popular; her dad is a major disappointment she has no time for. Yet when she catches sight of a new boy at school, she senses a connection that sends her on a journey of discovery, one that teaches her that maybe she doesn’t have things quite as under control as she thought.

Knox wants to remain invisible. Keep his head down and do his job for Rhett, the man who found him hiding in his garage after Knox’s life went to hell. Instead of calling the police, Rhett offers Knox a job and a place to stay on the condition he not get into any fights and he finish high school. Knox works construction during the day and completes online classes at night, only coming into the high school to take tests, which is where Serena sees him. After she follows him home one day, everything shifts when they figure out their shared history.

Knox is on the run from a crime he was forced to commit. All he wants is to stay hidden, stay clean, and not cause trouble for the people he cares about. Yet Serena can’t seem to leave him alone, and in his heart, he doesn’t want her to. When his past comes calling, putting her in danger, they both have some big decisions to make.

Every Scar Tells a Story is a fast-paced book I read in one sitting. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen with these two characters as they navigated some pretty serious situations. While there are moments of hilarity, especially with the ladies Serena cares for at her part-time job in the old folks’ home, York gives these kids some heavy struggles. Serena and Knox each must deal with the fallout from drug and alcohol abuse, neglect, abandonment, and violent crime. They find their strength in each other and in their growing relationship, leaving the reader with a sense of awe at the resilience of adolescence and hope for the future. Great read. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Julia Blake.
Author 19 books176 followers
June 16, 2024
A bittersweet and fascinating tale of redemption, forgiveness, understanding, and the agony of first love. Serena is a dedicated, hardworking teenager with an eye on a bigger and brighter future. Then she meets Knox. He is scarred, secretive, suspicious, and isolated, yet something about this man intrigues her. Serena and Knox’s tale could be a typical grumpy/sunshine young love story, but the author elevates it far beyond that with her sensitive portrayal of a man barely surviving the traumas of his youth. Of the guilt and self-loathing that has eaten away at Knox’s esteem until he believes himself incapable and unworthy of love or even simple friendship.

Serena is a likeable character. I admired her work ethic which sets her apart from her carefree friends partying their way through their final year at high school. I especially liked the relationships Serena has with the elderly residents of the care home where she works part-time — seriously, they need a book of their own — and it made Serena a more sympathetic character because of the love and respect she has for them.

Knox is a more enigmatic character but, as he gradually lets down his guard to allow Serena in, the author gives the reader tantalising clues into his history. And what a history it is. There is a great deal in this book about mental health which if handled clumsily can be a real turn-off. Here, the author deals with the issue with a light but informed hand and it is clear that either they have personal experience or have thoroughly researched the matter.

About two-thirds of the way through the story, it changes from being a will they/won’t they tale of young love into a breathless and nail-biting climax of danger and the secrets in Knox’s past bursting into the present to threaten both him and Serena.

This was a highly enjoyable and engrossing read for readers who love YA romance with a dash of spice and high-action plot twists and turns. A well-deserved five stars from me.
Profile Image for Sherry.
40 reviews
June 14, 2024
Every Scar Tells a Story by Rayna York is a mature YA novel written in a dual perspective narrative. It is set in the beautiful state of Colorado. The main characters are Serena, a confident and captivating young woman who will soon graduate from high school and Knox, a mysterious, deep and complex young man who is struggling with his past. The two are immediately drawn to one another and a heart-stopping, inspiring, and uplifting relationship takes the reader on a carefully crafted and powerful adventure. The author gives life to the story and each of the characters. This novel is a thought-provoking, vivid, and remarkable story about love, the memorable moments of youth, dark pasts, mystery, and overcoming.
The author deeply explores the complexity of struggles involving mental health in a moving, relatable, and compelling manner. The theme of mental health was one that was woven into every aspect of the story with skill and sensitivity. This is such an important topic and one that is prominent in our society today. I loved York's impeccable and skillful writing of such a powerful narrative.
Romance and humor are present throughout the story and create delightful, magnetic, and engaging passages. Readers will also enjoy a bit of mystery, suspense, and several action-packed scenes. Relationships and their nuances are also explored in this book as well as how each one affects the characters' past, present, and future.
I immediately connected with the depth of the characters and beautifully told story. It captured my mind and my heart. This novel will grab your attention and you will find it hard to put this book down. I wholeheartedly recommend this lovely, dynamic, and well-written read. I easily give this book five stars!
Profile Image for Giorgina.
218 reviews
June 20, 2024
Every scar tells a Story by Rayna York
Pub date : 15/06/24
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Every scar tells a story it is not the average classic romance book anyone would expect ro read, it's a book about forgiveness, acceptance, understanding and dealing with severe psychological trauma!! Rayna York allows us to immerse and understand the inner world of people suffering from anxiety disorders and agoraphobia, she showed us what it's like to be a person with deep empathy and a big heart! In the book we see how 2 people with traumatic experiences and a complicated past try to understand and heal the wounds of their souls and of each other!! Their past and how it affects them is what constantly tests them and tries to separate them ,but their need for acceptance and love is what brings them together!! It was an amazing read and a hell of a roller-coaster!!
The supporting characters are fantastic but not so much that they steal the show! I loved Serena's friends from the nursing home and also Rhett!! The book had action, romance, humor and very strong emotions and description of the experiences of the protagonists!! The ending just as strong and couldn't be better!!

Thank you to The Publisher Tiad Tree Press, The Author Rayna York and NetGalley for an advanced Reader Copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kara Frey.
9 reviews1 follower
November 14, 2024
"Every Scar Tells a Story by Rayna York is a contemporary fiction novel that blends elements of romance, self-discovery, and emotional healing. This gripping novel explores the intersection of past trauma and the journey to healing, making it both a powerful and poignant read.

The novel centers around Serena, a young woman whose life has been shaped by a traumatic past. After experiencing significant loss and hardship, Serena is determined to reclaim her life and her sense of self. Along the way, she meets Knox, a man with his own emotional baggage and scars, and the two form a bond that forces them both to confront their pasts.

The story delves into themes of healing, forgiveness, and resilience, exploring the idea that our scars—whether emotional or physical—are not simply markers of pain but symbols of strength and the stories we carry with us. As Serena and Knox navigate their complex relationship, they discover that true healing comes not from forgetting the past, but by accepting it and moving forward together.

If you enjoy contemporary romance that delves into the complexities of personal growth and healing, this book is a compelling read. The emotional depth and authenticity of the characters make it a story worth experiencing. The novel will likely appeal to readers who appreciate character-driven narratives that explore both the dark and light aspects of love and self-discovery."
Profile Image for Lee Campbell.
32 reviews1 follower
June 7, 2024
Ten out of ten out of ten out of TEN. This book was so beautifully written with duel point of views from our FMC and MMC, and lots of character growth that somehow seemed perfected timed in this standalone novel. I love to see FMCs that have emotional intelligence and MMCs willing to go to the mat to protect who they care about. This story is engaging and the personalities of the main characters are, while influenced by unique dark histories, relatable in how they approach problems and situations. This is a wonderful novel that you could finish in a day and mourn for months because the writing is phenomenal. The only thing that would make this better would be another book or novella about Serena and Knox. Side note , it is important to note that alcoholism and domestic violence is a theme in this book. I am very grateful to Reyna York, her publishing team, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC. It was an absolute joy!
Profile Image for Larks Books.
283 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2024
Meant To Be

I’m quickly becoming a fan of whatever Rayna York writes. Every Scar Tells A Story is a mature YA romance with a beat of heat and a whole of lot of character depth, and a representation of mental health. I was pulled into this story and it couldn’t put it down once I started in on it.
On the outside Serena and Knox shouldn’t fit. Serena is popular and has the promise of a bright future laid out before her. So the pull she feels to Knox who hides himself away from everyone doesn’t make sense until it does. I love how the story is weaved and the characters’ personalities and motivations shines through from Serena’s strong will to be there for Knox and Knox’s struggle to be present for Serena.
If you are looking for a well written love story with low steam and good plot look no further.
Profile Image for WeLoveBigBooksAndWeCannotLie.
580 reviews29 followers
October 5, 2024
Do you need to like the main character to enjoy a book?💕
I don’t always have to, but I do prefer it. Luckily both Knox and Serena gave their own POVs in Every Scar Tells a Story, and I adored them both.
This is a unique and angsty story about the ups and downs teens go through every day, but then also digs deeper. Both main characters have been hurt emotionally and physically in their past and they’re both working to heal and move on. They are drawn to each other immediately even though Serena has a boyfriend. I loved learning about their history and how they planned to overcome it.
Every Scar Tells a Story by Rayna York is a quick and enjoyable read and very sweet indie author!
Thank you @raynayorkauthor for this gifted copy
You can find Every Scar Tells a Story on our Amazon storefront!🧜🏼‍♀️🌺
Profile Image for Emie.
303 reviews7 followers
June 25, 2024
This was such a great mature YA story!! 🥰This book was so beautifully written and dealt with many difficult topics really gracefully.

What I loved most about this story was the characters. They were so complex and unique and I really enjoyed seeing them through their journey and their growth. Serena and Knox are both flawed characters and I loved seeing them learn to be open and learn to love one another despite everything and their age. The hope that they gave one another was so inspiring and I really loved them together despite all the odds that are stacked against them. It was nice to see them learn and change each other in the best way! Knox won my heart right away and I love seeing his growth and his bravery throughout his life despite everything he went through in his youth. Both characters are great examples of strong individuals overcoming obstacles and I love seeing that in books!

I also found the story so endearing and I just wanted to continue reading to see what would happened next! The mix of the character development and plot was perfect, and it made it a really enjoying read! The pace was great and I love the short chapters as it made it a really easy read despite the heavy subject matter! There also a few good twists and elements that kept me engaged while reading which I really enjoyed! The writing was beautiful and it felt like I was in the head of teenagers, which I love when reading YA books!

Thank you so much Rayna York for a copy of this amazing book! Out now!

4.5⭐️
136 reviews4 followers
June 15, 2024
I loved this story!!

This is a full circle story that takes you on an emotional roller coaster from laughing to crying and back again. Knox’s story is heartbreaking. Seeing him grow into the person he becomes is what makes this book so good.

Knox and Serena have a relationship that is so strong and special but is one that people can’t always see the good in. They go through their ups and downs for sure. But just when they are thinking things can’t get worse… they do.

Don’t just add this one to your TBR but add it and READ it. Soon!

Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for a chance to read and review.
Profile Image for Megan.
230 reviews1 follower
July 2, 2024
Serena is a firey redhead that deals with the punches and is the ray of sunshine for most people in her life. When fate intervenes and brings Knox back into her life, things take some super dramatic changes. It is a fun, dramatic, romantic ride. It deals with childhood trauma, ptsd, anxiety. The characters are super dynamic and leave you wanting to hug them and tell them it will be ok. Thank you NetGalley, Toad Tree Press and Rayna York for picking me to be an arc reader of this book.
Profile Image for Kendall.
318 reviews3 followers
September 18, 2024
this story is the epitome of resilience, strength that we find within our own vulnerability and the way our scars become badges of honor of all we endured.
I loved watching these two characters grow together, their flaws making them more relatable to all readers and shows they way we grow through what we experience. York has truly created a timeless read, reminding readers of the relatability of our past weighing us down and fear of what’s to come in the future
Profile Image for Olivia.
2 reviews
June 16, 2024
This book had me in my feels!! It had me laughing, it had me cringing, it had me fuming, it had me tearing up, and it warmed my heart. I could not put it down. I fell in love with Serena and Knox and their complicated story and I didn’t want it to end!! Please can this be turned into a sequel?!?
1 review
June 17, 2024
Every Scar Tells a Story is a captivating read. The characters are so vivid and have so much depth, from the lead characters to the ones you’ll casually meet. Once I got to know them, I couldn’t wait to hang out with them every chance I got. An exciting adventure from start to finish.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews

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