What do you think?
Rate this book
Whiskey Scars
Angels don't do what he did
Kennedy:
I didn't need to tell him my story, the blood running down my face made it clear. One look at me stumbling down a dark backroad during a midnight thunderstorm and he knew. The years of torment evident in the Whiskey Scars I tried so hard to hide.
Soaked to the bone, frozen, and scared, escape from my abusive past had never been an option. But I was put in his path for a reason. He saved my life that night and for that I will be forever grateful.
Jake:
I wasn't looking for trouble, but for some reason it always seemed to find me. I got turned around outside a small town and found her in a muddy, torn dress—broken and bruised.
In her eyes, I glimpsed the same pain my own mother had endured, the weight of a thousand storms crashing around her. I couldn't simply look away; the chance to finally do something good with my life presented itself. I knew exactly what I had to do.
Prepare to be drawn into a raw and agonizing narrative set against the backdrop of broken souls and the healing power of compassion. “Whiskey Scars” will stay with you long after the final page is turned.
Kennedy:
I didn't need to tell him my story, the blood running down my face made it clear. One look at me stumbling down a dark backroad during a midnight thunderstorm and he knew. The years of torment evident in the Whiskey Scars I tried so hard to hide.
Soaked to the bone, frozen, and scared, escape from my abusive past had never been an option. But I was put in his path for a reason. He saved my life that night and for that I will be forever grateful.
Jake:
I wasn't looking for trouble, but for some reason it always seemed to find me. I got turned around outside a small town and found her in a muddy, torn dress—broken and bruised.
In her eyes, I glimpsed the same pain my own mother had endured, the weight of a thousand storms crashing around her. I couldn't simply look away; the chance to finally do something good with my life presented itself. I knew exactly what I had to do.
Prepare to be drawn into a raw and agonizing narrative set against the backdrop of broken souls and the healing power of compassion. “Whiskey Scars” will stay with you long after the final page is turned.
- GenresDark Romance
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2024
334 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
About the author
Kristi Copeland
11 books82 followersThis author is also published under Brooke Lyn.
Everywhere I look, I see someone begging me to write about them. Even my husband’s dreams inspire ideas about new books! My critters each deserve their own book and will probably one day get one!
Join me as I create scenarios that could happen to anyone… and probably have. Maybe me, maybe you.
Everywhere I look, I see someone begging me to write about them. Even my husband’s dreams inspire ideas about new books! My critters each deserve their own book and will probably one day get one!
Join me as I create scenarios that could happen to anyone… and probably have. Maybe me, maybe you.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 11, 2024
This book was rough….emotionally. This is not a happy, fun book, it is depressing and will make you angry and sad but you won’t soon forget it. I went into this book totally blind and thought it was a dark romance and I was way off. Please check trigger warnings before reading.
June 4, 2024
I don’t think I have the words to express how heartbreakingly amazing this book is. It’s based off of the song “Wait in the Truck” performed by Hardy, featuring Lainey Wilson. It tells the story of the tragic events that led those two broken souls to cross paths on that fateful stormy night. If you’re looking for hearts and flowers romance, this is not the book for you. If you are looking for survival and strength even in the worst of situations and the healing power of compassion, you need to read this book.
February 7, 2025
So this story is based off of Hardys Wait In The Truck. She plucked the lyrics out of the song for this book. The story was pretty good. The writing wasn't great.
July 5, 2024
This book gave me goosebumps! It was very well written and a story that sadly a lot of women can relate to. Some of it was difficult to read just because it covers some things that are sensitive to me, but I thoroughly enjoyed this story. And, even though you already know the ending, I couldn’t put it down! Thank you for a great story!
June 7, 2024
GoodNESS. What a book. It gripped me from page one and did not stop all the way through. This story is absolutely heartbreaking, raw, real and so very emotional. It’s not a story for the faint of heart, and please be aware of your limits as this is not an easy story to read(abuse, rape, assault etc). But it was written so well and so beautifully and captured the struggle of its main characters in such a perfect way. I also love that it’s based off the popular country song “Wait in the truck” by Hardy. Well executed and just a wonderful, raw, gripping novel! I will shout from the rooftops about this book!
June 5, 2024
Woah.. when I tell you this book had me gripped from page one, this is a book about abuse and literally survival! Based on the song Wait in the truck by Hardy and Lainey Wilson which every time I hear it's on repeat! My heart was hurting for both Jake and especially Kennedy as her abuse from her husband just keeps escalating more and more each time! As a reader, there were times I found myself wanting to throw my Kindle and just save this girl, but the night of that thunderstorm, I just knew it was gonna be okay for her. And the way Jake had grown up as a young boy watching his momma get abused so badly and the way he was targeted by his father just broke my soul! This book was written so well, but I'll warn you, it's not a book that ends in a happy ending! But it's such a great read!
June 5, 2024
This book is truly a heart breaking story. It's so well written and pulls you in from the start to end . It truly lives up to "wait in the truck"
This book is dark , gritty and will you take you dark powerful journey of two different souls . Both are just trying to survive the scars . How will thier journey end.
This book is dark , gritty and will you take you dark powerful journey of two different souls . Both are just trying to survive the scars . How will thier journey end.
January 2, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin with this book but it was wonderful. When I heard it was based on a song by Hardy, I knew I had to read it. Check trigger warnings before reading because this book touches on content that can be triggering to others. The first chapter immediately sucked me in and took me through many different emotions. The author alternates chapters between Kennedy and Jake with their age continuing as the book goes on. This book will take you on a journey that will make you not want to put it down.
I loved how the lyrics to Wait In The Truck were included at the end of the book because the song truly encompasses the content of the book.
I will definitely be checking out other books this author writes in the future 🖤
I loved how the lyrics to Wait In The Truck were included at the end of the book because the song truly encompasses the content of the book.
I will definitely be checking out other books this author writes in the future 🖤
June 26, 2025
This book is absolutely heartbreaking. It’s not happy, it’s not light, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Please take the trigger warnings seriously, abuse, rape, and assault are all part of the story, and it doesn’t shy away from showing the darkest parts of that.
“Death would be better than this life.”
That line hit me hard, because I once had those exact thoughts before. As someone who’s been through domestic violence, parts of this book were really tough to get through. Some scenes felt way too real, and honestly, they brought up a lot. But at the same time, I appreciated how honest and raw it all was.
I could write a novel about how much I loathe Cody, but that rage only validates how well the author captured the horrors of abuse and manipulation. In the end, I have nothing but respect for what this story set out to do: show trauma and survival in their rawest, ugliest forms, and still find space for hope, healing, and the quiet strength to move forward.
An unforgettable, gut-wrenching read - 5 stars.
“Death would be better than this life.”
That line hit me hard, because I once had those exact thoughts before. As someone who’s been through domestic violence, parts of this book were really tough to get through. Some scenes felt way too real, and honestly, they brought up a lot. But at the same time, I appreciated how honest and raw it all was.
I could write a novel about how much I loathe Cody, but that rage only validates how well the author captured the horrors of abuse and manipulation. In the end, I have nothing but respect for what this story set out to do: show trauma and survival in their rawest, ugliest forms, and still find space for hope, healing, and the quiet strength to move forward.
An unforgettable, gut-wrenching read - 5 stars.
August 16, 2025
If there were more stars to give this book, I’d give them. I can’t rightly express the emotions I felt while reading this book but I will say… is not just a story, this may be a fictional book, but this is real life.
If you have ever been in an abusive relationship… physical, mental… I warn you that this book will indeed make you feel all of the pain again, but it will also remind you why your story is important, why YOU are important, and why people who ask “why didn’t you just leave” SHOULD READ this book.
This is about loss, failure, strength, rising above, struggle, conquering, this is real life.
I will never not recommend this book! This book will forever live rent free in my mind! It was beautifully written, all the emotion beautifully expressed. A story that needs to be told.
If you have ever been in an abusive relationship… physical, mental… I warn you that this book will indeed make you feel all of the pain again, but it will also remind you why your story is important, why YOU are important, and why people who ask “why didn’t you just leave” SHOULD READ this book.
This is about loss, failure, strength, rising above, struggle, conquering, this is real life.
I will never not recommend this book! This book will forever live rent free in my mind! It was beautifully written, all the emotion beautifully expressed. A story that needs to be told.
September 24, 2025
Wow. Wow. Wow. I don’t even know how to describe this book….. I wouldn’t exactly call it romance….. no HEA and most of the book, the FMC & MMC were living parallel lives and don’t meet up until almost 60% through the book but…. Wow. I was basically hooked from the first paragraph and couldn’t put it down. Set in Alaska and filled with abuse of all kinds… I think this one will stick with me for a long time. Unlike anything I’ve ever read before and I really enjoyed it. Gave it a full 5 stars because I was sucked into the vortex
June 10, 2024
This book hurt but in all the right ways. It perfectly went along with the song. I felt in every way for these characters. I was a little confused with the story line at first but as it went on I was able to get into it. This book was truly my first book that made me sad. Lots and lots of triggers so be warned. Overall great book
July 5, 2024
Okay. This book is what keeps me in my small town spicy era. Hardy vibes everywhere! Please check trigger warnings bc this is about abuse, and some parts are heartbreaking. I had all the emotions in this book. ALL OF THEM. It really hit home with me in a way I can’t explain. The only thing I can say is beautiful yet intense.
July 5, 2024
I read a lot of books, I have read most of Copelands and this is by far her best book yet. It was intense and at times heartbreaking but so full of emotions. I won't lie you might cry.
I can't wait to read what come next from Copeland.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
I can't wait to read what come next from Copeland.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
July 19, 2024
Different
Not sure I liked all the graphic scenes where Kennedy was beaten and sexually molested not only by her husband but by men he sold her to.
It seemed poor Jake just couldn't win for trying!
All in all not a horrible book but I do not think I would have read it if I knew the details before
hand!
Not sure I liked all the graphic scenes where Kennedy was beaten and sexually molested not only by her husband but by men he sold her to.
It seemed poor Jake just couldn't win for trying!
All in all not a horrible book but I do not think I would have read it if I knew the details before
hand!
September 6, 2025
I thought Whiskey Scars was an amazing read! So heartbreaking yet so heart warming at the same time! Captivating from the very beginning. I finished this book in 2 days, I couldn’t put it down! Brilliantly written with a back and forth story telling from each of the main characters made it such an easy read!
February 3, 2025
Love a hero
I loved this book. Always love when abuser gets hi due
Read this in one day. This book is worth
your time.
I loved this book. Always love when abuser gets hi due
Read this in one day. This book is worth
your time.
September 1, 2025
Angels don't do what he did.
Kennedy didn't need to tell Jake her story, the blood that ran down her face made it clear. All it took was one look at her stumbling down a dark back road during a midnight thunderstorm and Jake just knew. The years of her torment are evident in the Whiskey Scars that she tried so hard to hide from the world.
She was soaked to the bone, frozen, scared, and trying to escape from her abusive past had never really been an option. But, Kennedy knew that she had been put in Jake's path for a reason. That night he managed to save her life and for that Kennedy knew that she was going to be forever grateful.
Jake had never been looking for trouble, but for reasons he can't understand it always seems to find him. He had gotten turned around outside a small town and found Kennedy in this muddy, torn dress – she was not only broken but she was also bruised.
In Kennedy's eyes, Jake caught a glimpse of the same pain his own mother had endured, the weight of thousands of storms that were constantly crashing down around her. Jake couldn't just look away; the chance to finally do something good with his life was finally presenting itself. And Jake knew exactly what he needed to do.
Prepare yourself to be drawn into this raw and agonizing narrative that's set against the backdrop of these broken souls and see the healing power of compassion. “Whiskey Scars” is going to stay with you long after the final word is read.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read the trigger warnings before you read this book. You need to be aware that there is some content and scenes in this book that may be unsuitable for some readers and could be triggering to others. Please remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Whiskey Scars is the 1st book in the Vigilante Justice series by Kristi Copeland. This is the first book by Kristi Copeland that I have ever read and I have to say that I wasn't disappointed. But, this was also a very beautiful but difficult book for me to read. Even if I did find that Kristi managed to bring music and song to a character's backstory.
You need to stop and listen to the music video for Hardy's “Wait in the Truck”. This song makes you question what they've been up to this point, and in listening to this song you'll realize that this book is the perfect read. This is such an amazing and touching song and the music video is everything that is needed to complete it, and it completes the book perfectly.
I am going to say this again because it is important, YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please pay attention to the trigger warnings. They are there for a purpose. This book is beautiful but at the same time it is heavy and at times hard to read even though it is just brilliantly written.
Kennedy has never had an easy life. She grew up in a less-than-desirable situation and it's never gotten better. She's been both physically and emotionally abused by so many different people in her life that she's just used to it now and she just accepts it all as normal.
Kennedy's own mother was the one who started the abuse and it continued with her job and then her own husband felt that he had the right to abuse her. And all this abuse shows just how our past can affect our future, affect what we believe is right, what we think we deserve, and how we allow other people to treat us. And it also shows us that sometimes we just need the right people in our lives to help us see the truth about what we really deserve and how we really do deserve to be treated.
Jake's childhood was different than Kennedy's and yet it was the same. He was an only child whose mother loved and adored him and his mother tried to do her best to protect Jake from his father's anger. Throughout Jake's childhood, he could never understand why his mother never stood up to his father or tried to get out of their house.
Jake blamed himself and held a lot of personal guilt for never being able to protect his mom even though he himself was only a child. In following Jake's story, it's absolutely heartbreaking.
Jake having grown up watching his mother be abused by his father, he knew there were countless other women out there who were in the same position as his mother. He finally decided that it was time to make a change, not only for himself, but also to make a difference in the lives of others.
It was in making that decision that he ran into Kennedy who is now on the run, battered, bruised, and caught in the pouring rain. It is in this moment that he chooses to take a stand and this stand is both beautiful, traumatic, and even tragic. Jake is still so young and he's lost so much time, yet his actions made such a huge impact, even if that impact happened and the reactions weren't the way he thought they would be.
This is one of those stories that had me in tears for both Kennedy and Jake. Both of these two characters were given such terrible hands in their lives, but at the same time, they never let those events take their spirits away from them. And I can honestly say that if you listen to the song mentioned at the start of this review after you read this book, you'll understand how this book was perfectly written to go hand in hand with that song. And it'll show you exactly how this book played out on the screen. And you'll get a feeling for the turning point in both Kennedy and Jake's lives.
I wish that Jake had been given a different hand in the end. He was just turning things around. He had just made a huge decision. He was finally moving forward with his life, his heart had seen a change, his faith had been renewed and he believed that he could find a better life.
This book was a profound read for me, and it was so very difficult and yet it also helped me in healing and seeing just how far I've come in my own life. I was once Kennedy. I was in that abusive relationship, both physically and mentally and it was so hard for me to get out. And this book made me remember that not only is my story and my voice important but I am important.
And I was asked over and over again why I didn't just leave and I wish I could have told them to read this book. This book shows how hard it is to leave an abusive relationship. But, it's also about loss, failure, strength, finding a way to rise above, the struggle to leave, conquering the fear, Whiskey Scars is real life.
This is one of those books that I am never not going to recommend. I think that everyone should honestly read it. This book is living forever rent-free in my head. Kristi did just a stunning job in writing this book with such emotion, beauty, and a stunning expression. This was a story that HAD to be told and Kristi did an amazing job in telling it.
This is such an amazing book that was perfectly paired with a song that just added more depth and expression to the already perfectly written book.
Kennedy didn't need to tell Jake her story, the blood that ran down her face made it clear. All it took was one look at her stumbling down a dark back road during a midnight thunderstorm and Jake just knew. The years of her torment are evident in the Whiskey Scars that she tried so hard to hide from the world.
She was soaked to the bone, frozen, scared, and trying to escape from her abusive past had never really been an option. But, Kennedy knew that she had been put in Jake's path for a reason. That night he managed to save her life and for that Kennedy knew that she was going to be forever grateful.
Jake had never been looking for trouble, but for reasons he can't understand it always seems to find him. He had gotten turned around outside a small town and found Kennedy in this muddy, torn dress – she was not only broken but she was also bruised.
In Kennedy's eyes, Jake caught a glimpse of the same pain his own mother had endured, the weight of thousands of storms that were constantly crashing down around her. Jake couldn't just look away; the chance to finally do something good with his life was finally presenting itself. And Jake knew exactly what he needed to do.
Prepare yourself to be drawn into this raw and agonizing narrative that's set against the backdrop of these broken souls and see the healing power of compassion. “Whiskey Scars” is going to stay with you long after the final word is read.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read the trigger warnings before you read this book. You need to be aware that there is some content and scenes in this book that may be unsuitable for some readers and could be triggering to others. Please remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Whiskey Scars is the 1st book in the Vigilante Justice series by Kristi Copeland. This is the first book by Kristi Copeland that I have ever read and I have to say that I wasn't disappointed. But, this was also a very beautiful but difficult book for me to read. Even if I did find that Kristi managed to bring music and song to a character's backstory.
You need to stop and listen to the music video for Hardy's “Wait in the Truck”. This song makes you question what they've been up to this point, and in listening to this song you'll realize that this book is the perfect read. This is such an amazing and touching song and the music video is everything that is needed to complete it, and it completes the book perfectly.
I am going to say this again because it is important, YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please pay attention to the trigger warnings. They are there for a purpose. This book is beautiful but at the same time it is heavy and at times hard to read even though it is just brilliantly written.
Kennedy has never had an easy life. She grew up in a less-than-desirable situation and it's never gotten better. She's been both physically and emotionally abused by so many different people in her life that she's just used to it now and she just accepts it all as normal.
Kennedy's own mother was the one who started the abuse and it continued with her job and then her own husband felt that he had the right to abuse her. And all this abuse shows just how our past can affect our future, affect what we believe is right, what we think we deserve, and how we allow other people to treat us. And it also shows us that sometimes we just need the right people in our lives to help us see the truth about what we really deserve and how we really do deserve to be treated.
Jake's childhood was different than Kennedy's and yet it was the same. He was an only child whose mother loved and adored him and his mother tried to do her best to protect Jake from his father's anger. Throughout Jake's childhood, he could never understand why his mother never stood up to his father or tried to get out of their house.
Jake blamed himself and held a lot of personal guilt for never being able to protect his mom even though he himself was only a child. In following Jake's story, it's absolutely heartbreaking.
Jake having grown up watching his mother be abused by his father, he knew there were countless other women out there who were in the same position as his mother. He finally decided that it was time to make a change, not only for himself, but also to make a difference in the lives of others.
It was in making that decision that he ran into Kennedy who is now on the run, battered, bruised, and caught in the pouring rain. It is in this moment that he chooses to take a stand and this stand is both beautiful, traumatic, and even tragic. Jake is still so young and he's lost so much time, yet his actions made such a huge impact, even if that impact happened and the reactions weren't the way he thought they would be.
This is one of those stories that had me in tears for both Kennedy and Jake. Both of these two characters were given such terrible hands in their lives, but at the same time, they never let those events take their spirits away from them. And I can honestly say that if you listen to the song mentioned at the start of this review after you read this book, you'll understand how this book was perfectly written to go hand in hand with that song. And it'll show you exactly how this book played out on the screen. And you'll get a feeling for the turning point in both Kennedy and Jake's lives.
I wish that Jake had been given a different hand in the end. He was just turning things around. He had just made a huge decision. He was finally moving forward with his life, his heart had seen a change, his faith had been renewed and he believed that he could find a better life.
This book was a profound read for me, and it was so very difficult and yet it also helped me in healing and seeing just how far I've come in my own life. I was once Kennedy. I was in that abusive relationship, both physically and mentally and it was so hard for me to get out. And this book made me remember that not only is my story and my voice important but I am important.
And I was asked over and over again why I didn't just leave and I wish I could have told them to read this book. This book shows how hard it is to leave an abusive relationship. But, it's also about loss, failure, strength, finding a way to rise above, the struggle to leave, conquering the fear, Whiskey Scars is real life.
This is one of those books that I am never not going to recommend. I think that everyone should honestly read it. This book is living forever rent-free in my head. Kristi did just a stunning job in writing this book with such emotion, beauty, and a stunning expression. This was a story that HAD to be told and Kristi did an amazing job in telling it.
This is such an amazing book that was perfectly paired with a song that just added more depth and expression to the already perfectly written book.
November 5, 2025
When I said I wanted a book based on the song ‘Wait in the Truck,’ this was NOT what I meant. This was such a bad fucking time. I mean, technically yes this was very accurate to the song. But like I wanted a happy ending. I at least wanted a romance before an unhappy ending. That way, if it still had to end badly, I at least could have enjoyed reading it and then respected that the ending stayed true to the song. Instead, I was not enjoying this book at any point. These characters just have the worst fucking lives. Kennedy’s life at least ends on an optimistic note, but Jake's life has always been shitty and now it will always be shitty and I hate that. I hate that Jake did this big heroic thing and made this big sacrifice for someone he doesn’t even know. Yes, they’d met before and the idea was that he was saving Kennedy to make up for not being able to save his mom. But because he wasn’t doing it out of some great love and because of his history, it kind of just made him come across as unstable and not in control of his impulses. This was kind of the weirdest portrayal of domestic violence I've ever come across. And before you tell me I just don’t know what I’m talking about, I read a lot of fiction in my free time and I literally read about domestic violence for a living, so I have seen plenty of examples of both fictional and real life domestic violence. I don’t know what on earth this was trying to do, but it was super weird. It didn’t really feel like a case of Kennedy being upset about the abuse and wanting to leave but then choosing to stay because things got good with Cody again and it was that typical cycle of abuse people get trapped in. It kind of just felt like she didn’t really care that much about getting beaten or brutally fucked or pimped out. She just loved Cody and her life was what it was. There were small indications in her dialogue every so often that she wasn’t all that happy with her life, but for the most part, especially in her own thoughts, she didn’t really have much of a personality or opinion about anything. She just told us about everything that was happening to her without any indication of how she felt about it. Spending 300 pages reading about nothing but one character getting beaten and raped over and over and the other struggling as a homeless, alcoholic felon just is not a good time. I’m going to go read one of the other books based on this song now and hopefully find the romance I was looking for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
Bringing a backstory to a song
If you have listen to Hardy's Wait in the Truck and wondered what might have lead up to that point then this is a must read. I loved the song and the music video and to me this was exactly what I needed to complete it.
Be sure you read through the trigger warnings because they are all there and not just barely mentioned. This book is very heavy but brilliantly written.
Kennedy is the woman being saved. She grew up in a rough situation that never truly got better until the end of the song when Jake made the sacrifice to save her life. Having been emotionally and physically abused by so many people in her life made her blind to just how much she was accepting as normal. This abused started in her childhood with her mother and continued with her job and her husband. It shows that your past can color what you believe is right and even what you think you deserve. It also shows that sometimes you just need the right people to help you see the truth.
Jake grew up an only child. His mother adored him and did everything she could to ensure that his father didn't take out all of his anger on him. Jake never understood why his mother never stood up for herself or escaped. He held a lot of guilt for not being able to protect his mother even though he was just a child. Following Jake's story is tragic and heartbreaking. Once he finally decides to make a change to help others he runs into Kennedy battered and bruised in the pouring rain. He choses this moment to take a stand and it is beautiful and tragic. From someone so young who lost so much time he made a big impact even if it wasn't the way he thought it would be.
This story had me crying for both Kennedy and Jake. They were given a terrible hand in life but they never let it take their spirit. this was perfectly written to compliment the song and give you the understanding for why this moment was the turning point in both of their lives.
If you have listen to Hardy's Wait in the Truck and wondered what might have lead up to that point then this is a must read. I loved the song and the music video and to me this was exactly what I needed to complete it.
Be sure you read through the trigger warnings because they are all there and not just barely mentioned. This book is very heavy but brilliantly written.
Kennedy is the woman being saved. She grew up in a rough situation that never truly got better until the end of the song when Jake made the sacrifice to save her life. Having been emotionally and physically abused by so many people in her life made her blind to just how much she was accepting as normal. This abused started in her childhood with her mother and continued with her job and her husband. It shows that your past can color what you believe is right and even what you think you deserve. It also shows that sometimes you just need the right people to help you see the truth.
Jake grew up an only child. His mother adored him and did everything she could to ensure that his father didn't take out all of his anger on him. Jake never understood why his mother never stood up for herself or escaped. He held a lot of guilt for not being able to protect his mother even though he was just a child. Following Jake's story is tragic and heartbreaking. Once he finally decides to make a change to help others he runs into Kennedy battered and bruised in the pouring rain. He choses this moment to take a stand and it is beautiful and tragic. From someone so young who lost so much time he made a big impact even if it wasn't the way he thought it would be.
This story had me crying for both Kennedy and Jake. They were given a terrible hand in life but they never let it take their spirit. this was perfectly written to compliment the song and give you the understanding for why this moment was the turning point in both of their lives.
Read
August 31, 2025*From the Author*
If you loved Whiskey Scars and wonder what happened to Kennedy and Jake, check out the sequel, FADED SCARS (Kennedy book 2), releasing October 2, 2025! *Triggers: Stalking, Abuse, Murder*
𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗰𝘁𝘀; 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗲.
𝗞𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗱𝘆:
I thought I finally left my torrid past behind after my husband died. But now worry consumes me as a stalker fixates on a newcomer to Talkeetna. As each instance intensifies, I’m haunted by memories of the trauma I desperately tried to escape.
Together with our girls’ group, Faith and I work to uncover the shadowy figure’s identity. I’m determined to keep my community safe, so I force myself to face my fears head-on, even if it kills me.
𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵:
I fled the lower forty-eight after my manipulative ex introduced me to a life I didn’t want. Following in my mother’s footsteps, I hope I can create a better version of myself in Alaska without being completely obsessed, like she was. But as I get to know the locals, I wonder who I can trust.
In a small town, though, secrets are hard to keep and it’s almost impossible to hide. On the contrary, someone’s been watching me. I refuse to admit I have a stalker even as his actions grow bolder. It may be too late for anyone to help me, even Kennedy.
As the danger escalates in the shadows of the great Denali, Kennedy and Faith are forced to face their own faded scars. If you love Whiskey Scars, dive into the mystery of Faded Scars to continue the saga.
For fans of The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, this gripping tale of friendship, fear, and community will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Don't miss out on this heart-pounding story set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness.
If you loved Whiskey Scars and wonder what happened to Kennedy and Jake, check out the sequel, FADED SCARS (Kennedy book 2), releasing October 2, 2025! *Triggers: Stalking, Abuse, Murder*
𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗰𝘁𝘀; 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗲.
𝗞𝗲𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗱𝘆:
I thought I finally left my torrid past behind after my husband died. But now worry consumes me as a stalker fixates on a newcomer to Talkeetna. As each instance intensifies, I’m haunted by memories of the trauma I desperately tried to escape.
Together with our girls’ group, Faith and I work to uncover the shadowy figure’s identity. I’m determined to keep my community safe, so I force myself to face my fears head-on, even if it kills me.
𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵:
I fled the lower forty-eight after my manipulative ex introduced me to a life I didn’t want. Following in my mother’s footsteps, I hope I can create a better version of myself in Alaska without being completely obsessed, like she was. But as I get to know the locals, I wonder who I can trust.
In a small town, though, secrets are hard to keep and it’s almost impossible to hide. On the contrary, someone’s been watching me. I refuse to admit I have a stalker even as his actions grow bolder. It may be too late for anyone to help me, even Kennedy.
As the danger escalates in the shadows of the great Denali, Kennedy and Faith are forced to face their own faded scars. If you love Whiskey Scars, dive into the mystery of Faded Scars to continue the saga.
For fans of The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, this gripping tale of friendship, fear, and community will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Don't miss out on this heart-pounding story set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness.
June 11, 2024
The story is dark and heavy. Two different people, with different (yet not so different) backgrounds that lead them to cross path.
Jake having a very bad start in life, seeing abuse since he was a kid, trying to survive and save his mother, yet not being strong (or honestly being just a kid) and living his life trying to make up for it, but life not being easy on him.
Kennedy getting around her mom's decisions and trying to take care of her siblings, of being quite and not being noticed led her to a life where she couldn't recognize abuse. Cody having a very triggering behaviour yet showing how being in an abusive relation is not the same as seeing it happening to others, not easy to recognize. I wanted to yell at her during the book for her to open her eyes, but when things are being seen from the outside, is very easy to judge.
I would have loved to have a bit of Brittany and Scott, eventhough is normal that they are left in the past.
It is quite intense during the whole story so please keep in mind being in a good mental space to read it. It is a book to make you feel things, not to be treated lightly
Jake having a very bad start in life, seeing abuse since he was a kid, trying to survive and save his mother, yet not being strong (or honestly being just a kid) and living his life trying to make up for it, but life not being easy on him.
Kennedy getting around her mom's decisions and trying to take care of her siblings, of being quite and not being noticed led her to a life where she couldn't recognize abuse. Cody having a very triggering behaviour yet showing how being in an abusive relation is not the same as seeing it happening to others, not easy to recognize. I wanted to yell at her during the book for her to open her eyes, but when things are being seen from the outside, is very easy to judge.
I would have loved to have a bit of Brittany and Scott, eventhough is normal that they are left in the past.
It is quite intense during the whole story so please keep in mind being in a good mental space to read it. It is a book to make you feel things, not to be treated lightly
June 25, 2024
5 ⭐️'s is not nearly enough.... what a book!!!
This is a story which alternates between the two main characters, Jake and Kennedy, who each come from similar but different abusive backgrounds.. Each chapter tells us a little more of each characters story, how the abuse effects their lives, their mental health, their addictions, their relationships with those around them and how their choices ultimately brings them to the same place at the same time that fateful night.
This book is based on the Hardy song - "wait in the truck" and the book is just as if not more, emotional than the song!
Be warned there are a lot of triggers in this book and you should make yourself aware of them prior to reading as the topics covered are distressing and heartbreaking. From the very first chapter, you can expect to find...
Mental, physical and sexual abuse
Addiction issues
R*pe
Child neglect
Violence etc
The author Kristi Copeland does not shy away from any of the topics but it is written beautifully and will draw you in from the very first chapter creating a very raw, real and emotionally charged story that will tear your heart from your body.. it evokes a rage of emotions from tears to frustration to anger but I could not set it down!
I will be recommending this book to everyone.
This is a story which alternates between the two main characters, Jake and Kennedy, who each come from similar but different abusive backgrounds.. Each chapter tells us a little more of each characters story, how the abuse effects their lives, their mental health, their addictions, their relationships with those around them and how their choices ultimately brings them to the same place at the same time that fateful night.
This book is based on the Hardy song - "wait in the truck" and the book is just as if not more, emotional than the song!
Be warned there are a lot of triggers in this book and you should make yourself aware of them prior to reading as the topics covered are distressing and heartbreaking. From the very first chapter, you can expect to find...
Mental, physical and sexual abuse
Addiction issues
R*pe
Child neglect
Violence etc
The author Kristi Copeland does not shy away from any of the topics but it is written beautifully and will draw you in from the very first chapter creating a very raw, real and emotionally charged story that will tear your heart from your body.. it evokes a rage of emotions from tears to frustration to anger but I could not set it down!
I will be recommending this book to everyone.
Read
September 24, 2024Thank you to Booksirens for giving me a copy of this book for my review.
The book is a story of Jake, 12yrs old, it's May 1997. His life is not good. His father beats him for everyrthing. If not him, it's his mom who he beats. Jake loves her..
It's a switch back story between Jake and Kennedy, who is 16 yrs Dec 2004. She gets a job in a bar, where her friend works. But it's not just a bar. Kennedy wears minimal clothes and performs lap dances behind a curtain. The money was good.
They both have abused lives. Jake's dad beat him and his wife until it came to murder.Jake went to prison.
Kennedys mom was a whore and had men at home. Kennedy went on to marry Cody. For me, the continued abuse from him was outrageous and at times graphic. Do women continue this and don't leave.? It is beyond me.
It is finally crazy, but the back and forth meet. Not in the best of circumstance.
I am not sure what kept me reading to the end? The author puts enough language to make you want a good outcome, but is there one? I won't tell, you have take a read. But, there is so much abuse it's hard to keep going for the entire book.
The book is a story of Jake, 12yrs old, it's May 1997. His life is not good. His father beats him for everyrthing. If not him, it's his mom who he beats. Jake loves her..
It's a switch back story between Jake and Kennedy, who is 16 yrs Dec 2004. She gets a job in a bar, where her friend works. But it's not just a bar. Kennedy wears minimal clothes and performs lap dances behind a curtain. The money was good.
They both have abused lives. Jake's dad beat him and his wife until it came to murder.Jake went to prison.
Kennedys mom was a whore and had men at home. Kennedy went on to marry Cody. For me, the continued abuse from him was outrageous and at times graphic. Do women continue this and don't leave.? It is beyond me.
It is finally crazy, but the back and forth meet. Not in the best of circumstance.
I am not sure what kept me reading to the end? The author puts enough language to make you want a good outcome, but is there one? I won't tell, you have take a read. But, there is so much abuse it's hard to keep going for the entire book.
June 25, 2025
Go into this book with so much caution. Read the trigger warnings. It’s dark. It’s hard to read. It’s some women’s reality.
This line “the best thing about you is that you’re mouldable” broke me for Kennedy.
If you’ve been in the abuse cycle you very clearly know the words “I’m sorry for what I did. If you tell me, I’ll change”
Just when you think Cody can’t get any worse…he somehow does.
“Multiple concussions, broken cheekbone, nose, jaw, teeth. Branded with an “m”, scars from handcuffs, broken arm, ribs - bruises and scrapes all over and 2 miscarriages. In addition to the beatings, he’s raped me, drugged me, sold my body to strangers and years of mental abuse”
What in the ever loving Christ is that kind of love? It isn’t love. It’s despicable.
The best words Kennedy ever heard were “wait in the truck”. Those words saved her.
This line “the best thing about you is that you’re mouldable” broke me for Kennedy.
If you’ve been in the abuse cycle you very clearly know the words “I’m sorry for what I did. If you tell me, I’ll change”
Just when you think Cody can’t get any worse…he somehow does.
“Multiple concussions, broken cheekbone, nose, jaw, teeth. Branded with an “m”, scars from handcuffs, broken arm, ribs - bruises and scrapes all over and 2 miscarriages. In addition to the beatings, he’s raped me, drugged me, sold my body to strangers and years of mental abuse”
What in the ever loving Christ is that kind of love? It isn’t love. It’s despicable.
The best words Kennedy ever heard were “wait in the truck”. Those words saved her.
June 17, 2024
These are two heartbreaking stories entwined into one bittersweet ending. Narrated as two separate stories, Kennedy and Jake face hardships and trauma and the struggle to simply try to survive. Then one stormy night their paths cross and a decision is made. Two broken souls in desperate need of healing.
It's an emotionally heavy book. I read it in about a day, but I had to stop during certain parts to process certain scenes. This book broke me and made me feel so many sad emotions. Kennedy's and Jake's stories will stay with me for a very long time.
Please know this book has trigger warnings. It discusses dark and sensitive themes.
This book is based on the popular country song "Get in the Truck" by Hardy ft. Lainey Wilson.
It's an emotionally heavy book. I read it in about a day, but I had to stop during certain parts to process certain scenes. This book broke me and made me feel so many sad emotions. Kennedy's and Jake's stories will stay with me for a very long time.
Please know this book has trigger warnings. It discusses dark and sensitive themes.
This book is based on the popular country song "Get in the Truck" by Hardy ft. Lainey Wilson.
August 6, 2024
This book took me a little while to get into because it's A LOT different than what I normally read but once I got into the story I really enjoyed it. I pretty much exclusively read romance and this book is definitely not a romance in the traditional sense but it's still a really good enjoyable story.
Whiskey Scars is based on the HARDY and Lainey Wilson song "wait in the truck" which I love, by the way, and the storyline of this book fits with the lyrics of the song perfectly in my opinion especially towards the end of the book.
If you have any triggers PLEASE check the trigger warnings before reading this book as Whiskey Scars deals with a lot of heavy topics that may be triggering to some people.
Whiskey Scars is based on the HARDY and Lainey Wilson song "wait in the truck" which I love, by the way, and the storyline of this book fits with the lyrics of the song perfectly in my opinion especially towards the end of the book.
If you have any triggers PLEASE check the trigger warnings before reading this book as Whiskey Scars deals with a lot of heavy topics that may be triggering to some people.
June 4, 2024
I was entirely hooked from the first line! Jake and his mother were tormented by his father’s abuse. Years later, after undergoing hardship, when Jake sees a branded and beaten woman walking in an Alaskan thunderstorm, he goes directly to her husband’s trailer. Armed. The story pulled me in. I felt for Jake and for Kennedy. These are characters that lived with me long after reading. This book showed how much depth and humanity even those living under a bridge have. It made me question how a person can serve another and how the legal system may not support what is right and what is wrong. This was my second Kristi Copeland book and I’m excited there are many more!
June 20, 2024
Wow this was a truly sad, tragic story. Not uplifting but can believe it happens.
This was about Kennedy and Jake, told in flashback about their similar abuse in their up bringing.
Very dramatic and dark, so not a feel good story. Both headed on a collision course to one fateful night.
It is a book worth reading, but does leave a sorrowful feeling behind. Both lead such harsh lives, to not really come out with better futures. Raw and heartbreaking.
Well written, you have to feel for the two of them, hoping they can rise above their challenges. I did like the two of them.
Well done!!
This was about Kennedy and Jake, told in flashback about their similar abuse in their up bringing.
Very dramatic and dark, so not a feel good story. Both headed on a collision course to one fateful night.
It is a book worth reading, but does leave a sorrowful feeling behind. Both lead such harsh lives, to not really come out with better futures. Raw and heartbreaking.
Well written, you have to feel for the two of them, hoping they can rise above their challenges. I did like the two of them.
Well done!!
August 29, 2025
Before I start my review, I must say, "Please read the triggers before you start reading this book." This book is a hard read far from what I usually read. But I recently heard a song called "Wait in the truck", this book actually tells the story behind the song. Both characters have difficult childhoods, and therefore, that affects their adult lives. The lyrics appear throughout the book and put light on very difficult subjects. To say I enjoyed the story seems unfair because of the subject matter. However, I would give more than five stars if I could. This is a story I won't forget it moves you in ways I never thought a book could.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews