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Scarred by Love #1
Scarred by Love
**Mature Content Warning** Recommended for ages 17+ due to language and sexual content.
Riley thought she was in love…
She thought she found the perfect guy until his aggressive behavior became too much for her to handle. Hurt and alone, she withdrew from the world, and hid from the chance of ever loving again.
Zander, a sexy voiced lead singer and guitar player, had his sights set on Riley…
Even though she continued to push him away.
Riley was guarded and hesitant when it came to bad boys. After all, it was a bad boy who shattered her once before.
But Riley soon realizes that Zander isn't who she thought he was, and he may be just what she needs.
Will the love that grows between them be enough to hold them together?
Or will the heartache they suffer drive a wedge between them forever?
Riley thought she was in love…
She thought she found the perfect guy until his aggressive behavior became too much for her to handle. Hurt and alone, she withdrew from the world, and hid from the chance of ever loving again.
Zander, a sexy voiced lead singer and guitar player, had his sights set on Riley…
Even though she continued to push him away.
Riley was guarded and hesitant when it came to bad boys. After all, it was a bad boy who shattered her once before.
But Riley soon realizes that Zander isn't who she thought he was, and he may be just what she needs.
Will the love that grows between them be enough to hold them together?
Or will the heartache they suffer drive a wedge between them forever?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2014
161 people are currently reading
1752 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Harms
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❤ One Sizzling Romance at a Time ❤
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorCAHarms/
WEBSITE: https://www.authorcaharms.com/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Charms0814
INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/authorcaharms/
NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/1xsgHCS
AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/C.A.-Harms/e/B0...
❤ One Sizzling Romance at a Time ❤
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
October 21, 2024
Who’s a happy chappie, then? Why, this hero is! He has his cake and he gets to eat it. He has the best heroine a man could wish for: he wasn’t going to choose between his bestie, the ow, and the heroine, so the h chose for him and they all 3 became besties.
1.5 stars for my fav tropes.
H - Zander
h - Riley
Ow/h2 - Beth.
One of my favorite angsty tropes, to a certain extent. This one crosses the line.
The HxH relationship suffers because of the H failing to recognize that the ow is in love with him and allowing her to manipulate him,
It LITERALLY takes the ow’s drunken tongue in his mouth, while straddling him, to wake him the fuck up to her machinations.
Especially given that the heroine mends the ow and H's relationship so that they can all live happily ever after. WITHOUT addressing the ow's not so platonic feelings for him.
RILEY ABOUT ZANDER AND BETH:
*“...they needed one another. I hated to admit it but it was true. ”
Riley, (after practically being bullied by Beth & not having Zander’s support wrt Beth), works to repair the H and ow’s relationship when he finally realizes the ow is a lying piece of shit.
*“… the blond girl he had his arms wrapped around. I watched as he spun her around and she laughed. They slow danced and smiled at each other while he sang...”
* Riley: “Is there something going on with you two? Please just be honest with me.”
Zander: “You know what? I don’t have to stand here and explain anything. In the end you’re not gonna believe me anyway...Beth is in my life; she always will be in my life. I’m done making excuses for our closeness.”
Riley: “I’m sorry Zander; I didn’t mean… this won’t work. Not like this.”
Zander: “You’re right Riley this isn’t working anymore. I can’t be “who you want me to be. I’m over it. I don’t want this anymore. Just run back to Grant…because we’re done.”
*“I [Riley] couldn’t figure out what the hell I had done to Beth. The first time I met her she had been so nice. She was basically the one that had finally gotten Zander and I together. It felt like now she didn’t even want me around.”
*“She (Beth) brought herself toward me once more, “Say what ya gotta say Princess.”
I shoved against her chest and once again she stumbled and fell. “Get the hell away from me.” I heard Zander’s voice next and it stopped me. “Riley, what the fuck are you doing? Why’d you push Beth?” “He [Zander] walked past me and grabbed for Beth’s hand, helping her from the ground…. Beth put her arm around his waist and he held her up. She played it all out burying her head against his chest like she was attacked or something. “I think you should go home. I’m gonna ride with Mark to take Beth home.”
*“Beth came at me but who did he believe? He didn’t care what happened prior to me shoving her. Zander just assumed that I attacked her, like I’m that kind of person.”
*Zander:“…my girlfriend fighting with my best friend.”
*“We [Hxh] never got time alone because she seemed to always show up. I don’t know how many times she [Beth] walked in on us making out on the couch or against the counter.”
*“Last night I ran into Beth. She was pretty drunk and um…well I brought her home with Kate and me. She misses you a lot…” …When he finally spoke I was relieved, “Thank you, baby.” …
*“He loves you to Beth. You’re his family and I know that not having you in his life has been really hard. He tries to hide it. He tries to pretend that he’s okay with how things are but I know differently. I can see it in his eyes.”
ZANDER ABOUT RILEY AND BETH:
*“I needed the two of them getting along. They were both a huge part of my life.”
*“She [h] wasn’t freaking out and making me choose between them, even after Beth kissed me.”
*“I love you too Beth. I’ve missed having you around. We’ll always be best friends; Riley understands that. It’s not about me choosing between you two. There is always room for you in my life.”
SOME STORYLINES:
1.
The h: “I was going to meet new people…..Every guy was not Parker (the abusive ex) and now I know the signs of an abuser. I would never allow myself to be with someone like that again.” Zander doesn’t physically hurt Riley, but his words pack a mean punch.
2.
The H’s:
*Family problems (not addressed)
*Temper (not addressed)
*He’s inability to open up to the h -“I wanted to keep Riley away from that part of my life. I hated who I became when I was around my father. I was the worst version of myself; Riley was too sweet for that shit.” - (addressed, but not completely followed through because even near the end he doesn’t open up to the h about how he misses the ow in his life)
3.
The H’s dependency on the ow. When he’s not with the h he’s with the ow.
4.
The ow being in love with the H. Not adequately addressed. What? Has she suddenly magically stopped wanting to stick her tongue down his throat???
*… “I’ve hidden my feelings for years…. “When I see you with Riley…it hurts. Why do you think I treat her badly? It isn’t that I don’t like her…I’m jealous of her. She has you and I don’t want her to. I don’t want anyone to.”
5.
PET PEEVE:
When the h’s family and friends warn the H not to hurt her or he’ll incur their wrath AND THEN THEY WATCH HOW HE HURTS HER OVER AND OVER AGAIN AND THEY DONT DO SHIT EXCEPT TELL HER TO FORGIVE HIM! DEFEND HIM!
Why? Why????
6.
The H continuously messing up:
*“I know I’ve screwed up more than once with you. I know that at times I should have listened to you instead of assuming the worst. I also know that I keep apologizing but then I just screw up again….”
*“I’m so sorry Ry…so fuckin’ sorry I didn’t hold on to you tighter.”
*“I promise you baby no more bullshit.”
*“Even after the way Beth had treated her and how she kissed me, Riley still took care of her.”
*“I pretty much just accused her of getting pregnant on purpose.”
Her: “I’m late Zander.”
Him: I was a little confused at first and then it sunk in and my heart raced, in fact it felt like the fuckin’ thing was gonna beat “out of my chest. “You said you were on the pill. Didn’t you?” I knew I came across a little hateful and I took a deep breath. “Riley, are you on the pill or not?”
ZANDER:
OTT OBSESSED with Riley; adores her to the moon and back. He doesn’t want to be without her. The sweetest gentlest, most loving hero. Until he’d flip a switch. Often. Then he’s cruel, dismissive, sneering, screaming obscenities after which he often storms off with a big “FUCK YOU” to the big players in his life: the h, his bffs, his absentee father etc etc. At each blow up/crying/tearful session I see and understand his frustration/hurt/anger/jealousy, but it feels rather contrived and diva-like for such an otherwise good guy. And Riley doesn’t deserve it.
RILEY:
Initially irritated the shit out of me with her drama queen tendencies. After being in an abusive relationship she goes straight into the more-toxic-than-not relationship with Zander. She forgives and forgives and yet goes on about how strong she is and that she won’t allow another guy to hurt her. Then she forgives again.
BETH:
Snarky, confrontational, don’t mess with me - don’t give 2 shits about anyone but Zander, not even her long suffering boyfriend. Hid her sexual/romantic attraction to the H for years.
ZANDER and BETH:
*They practically live together; they’re in the same band; share a natural physical [not sexual, until it is sexual on her side] and emotional closeness.
*“After my mom passed away I moved in above Beth’s garage. The only true family I had was Beth and her mom…” <—said mother isn’t even on page; that’s how important she is?
*“Beth and I have been best friends so long I don’t remember her not being a part of my life.”
*“she has always been the one person I could count on…”
*“Beth just rode (his bike) along to keep me level headed. She always seems to help me keep my cool. She has the ability to keep me calm…”
*“Beth is fuckin’ hammered …. She said she wants you.”
*Beth: “no offense but Riley seems a little too prissy for today’s activities [paintball]. Are you sure she won’t cry the first time she’s hit? Or break a nail or something?” I couldn’t tell if Beth was annoyed that I had invited Riley or if she was just being a bitch because of her hung over state.”
*Riley: “I watched as he laughed and shoved against Beth while she attempted to grab his controller from him. Beth got up from the couch and threw herself across his lap still trying to block his view from the game.” …“Zander tickled her side and shoved against her waist, at one point Beth bit his shoulder and they laughed as he pushed against her.” “It was like he sensed my concern because he pushed Beth off of his lap and slid closer to me”
*“She’s like a sister to me. Nothing more…you have nothing to worry about when it comes to Beth and I.”
*“I needed to talk to Beth later, though. The touchy feely stuff between us needed to be toned down a little. Mark [the boyfriend] was used to us and the way we were together. He had been around us for years now, but Riley didn’t know yet how to take us.”
*“I reached across the table and took her hand in mine. “This Saturday…you and me, we’ll hang out. Just us two…”
*“I stood up and pulled her from the booth. I took her into my arms and held her tightly. “I love you Beth…that will never change babe.” I kissed her on the cheek..”
*“I stretched out on the couch and Beth curled up beside me under the blanket.”
*“I felt Beth curl into my side and slowly drifted off.”
*“Riley: Beth was sleeping pretty much on top of him with her head on his chest. They were both under the same blanket and his chin was resting on the top of her head. Her arms were wrapped around his waist and his were linked around her shoulders.”
*“The thought had just occurred to me that Beth has been riding [on his bike] with me so many times I had lost count. I had no idea why I had never taken Riley for a ride.”
*Beth: “Shit Riley did we catch you on your knees?”
65% in
“Beth was acting like a spiteful bitch lately and it wasn’t like her. She knows how I feel about Riley; it was almost like she was jealous.”
*“I had my talk with her. Beth admitted that she was jealous. She has always been used to having me around and not having to worry about how we acted. Now things were different, I’m with someone and things don’t appear as innocent.”
*“Uh oh…trouble with the princess again.” I turned around and glared at her. “What? You said no more comments when Riley was around. She’s not here so…I get to be snotty.”
*Beth: “Maybe you guys [Hxh] should take a break and spend some time apart. It might be good for you.”
Zander: I looked at her like she had just lost her mind. “Beth, I can’t seem to figure out what the hell your problem is anymore. You liked Riley in the beginning “and then it all changed. What the fuck happened?”
Beth: “It’s not that I don’t like her Zander. I just don’t think she’s right for you. I mean, I really thought she was just a girl you had a little crush on. Maybe you needed to get it out of your system or something”
“She’s (Riley) not a fling, not something I need to get out of my system, Beth. I love the hell outta Riley and nothing is gonna change that.”
THEN, BETH’S TRUE COLOURS:
80% in: same night he believed Beth over Riley:
*“A hand slipped up over my chest and then a body straddled mine. I gripped her hips and I felt a cold soft tongue slip into my mouth. Riley must have decided to make it up to me. <—REALLY, DUFUS??? YOU fucked up yet she must make it up to you?
Beth: “I love you Zander…I always have.”
The voice brought me back to the present. I shot up and shoved her backwards.
Zander: “What the fuck Beth? What the hell are you doing?”
“I’m sorry I just needed to say it.”
“Why Beth? Why?” …
*“I (Zander) made her [Beth] leave. I told her I loved you (Riley) and that she needed to go home. Nothing else happened and I haven’t talked to her since. I’ve avoided all her calls and messages, I can’t face her.”
*“All this time Beth had been trying to get my attention. She had been playing with Riley’s emotions and I could see it now.”
BETH:
“Zander is like my brother. I love the guy to the moon and back but no way ever would it be more than that.””
*“I’m doing this [inviting Riley to Zander’s music gig] because I love him and I want to see him happy more than anything. He seems to think you can make him happy.”
*“Don’t be such a pussy, Zander. What did you do? Hand your balls over for her to hold on to?”
*“I miss you, Zander. We used to hang out together for hours and now I barely see you. I miss our time together.”
So, yes, a frustrating read for me
There’s so much going on, yet nothing is resolved or even expounded on as the book progresses. Uuurggg.
The worst (or best, depending on how I look at it) is that it’s not even what I would consider a deep meaningful masterpiece, yet I spend so much time reflecting on it later. I was so invested in their lives that I read it in one sitting. I don’t know if I should feel embarrassed about that because, while it's not a complete clunker, the writing is below par, the execution is weak, it’s contradictory, the timeline is out, important issues are brushed over or ignored.
Even after the epilogue, I was left wanting.
LAST PAGE:
” The End
“Or maybe it isn’t…” “
So, I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a follow up book in which I hope Zander gives Beth the boot like he should’ve done here.
Instead, he has his cake and eats it like that Norwegian kayaking athlete who prepped for the Olympics by paddling in the frozen sea.
To avoid frostbite, he placed a spirit heater in his kayak.
The kayak caught fire.
His angry coach: You can’t have your kayak and heat it.”
1.5 stars for my fav tropes.
H - Zander
h - Riley
Ow/h2 - Beth.
One of my favorite angsty tropes, to a certain extent. This one crosses the line.
The HxH relationship suffers because of the H failing to recognize that the ow is in love with him and allowing her to manipulate him,
It LITERALLY takes the ow’s drunken tongue in his mouth, while straddling him, to wake him the fuck up to her machinations.
Especially given that the heroine mends the ow and H's relationship so that they can all live happily ever after. WITHOUT addressing the ow's not so platonic feelings for him.
RILEY ABOUT ZANDER AND BETH:
*“...they needed one another. I hated to admit it but it was true. ”
Riley, (after practically being bullied by Beth & not having Zander’s support wrt Beth), works to repair the H and ow’s relationship when he finally realizes the ow is a lying piece of shit.
*“… the blond girl he had his arms wrapped around. I watched as he spun her around and she laughed. They slow danced and smiled at each other while he sang...”
* Riley: “Is there something going on with you two? Please just be honest with me.”
Zander: “You know what? I don’t have to stand here and explain anything. In the end you’re not gonna believe me anyway...Beth is in my life; she always will be in my life. I’m done making excuses for our closeness.”
Riley: “I’m sorry Zander; I didn’t mean… this won’t work. Not like this.”
Zander: “You’re right Riley this isn’t working anymore. I can’t be “who you want me to be. I’m over it. I don’t want this anymore. Just run back to Grant…because we’re done.”
*“I [Riley] couldn’t figure out what the hell I had done to Beth. The first time I met her she had been so nice. She was basically the one that had finally gotten Zander and I together. It felt like now she didn’t even want me around.”
*“She (Beth) brought herself toward me once more, “Say what ya gotta say Princess.”
I shoved against her chest and once again she stumbled and fell. “Get the hell away from me.” I heard Zander’s voice next and it stopped me. “Riley, what the fuck are you doing? Why’d you push Beth?” “He [Zander] walked past me and grabbed for Beth’s hand, helping her from the ground…. Beth put her arm around his waist and he held her up. She played it all out burying her head against his chest like she was attacked or something. “I think you should go home. I’m gonna ride with Mark to take Beth home.”
*“Beth came at me but who did he believe? He didn’t care what happened prior to me shoving her. Zander just assumed that I attacked her, like I’m that kind of person.”
*Zander:“…my girlfriend fighting with my best friend.”
*“We [Hxh] never got time alone because she seemed to always show up. I don’t know how many times she [Beth] walked in on us making out on the couch or against the counter.”
*“Last night I ran into Beth. She was pretty drunk and um…well I brought her home with Kate and me. She misses you a lot…” …When he finally spoke I was relieved, “Thank you, baby.” …
*“He loves you to Beth. You’re his family and I know that not having you in his life has been really hard. He tries to hide it. He tries to pretend that he’s okay with how things are but I know differently. I can see it in his eyes.”
ZANDER ABOUT RILEY AND BETH:
*“I needed the two of them getting along. They were both a huge part of my life.”
*“She [h] wasn’t freaking out and making me choose between them, even after Beth kissed me.”
*“I love you too Beth. I’ve missed having you around. We’ll always be best friends; Riley understands that. It’s not about me choosing between you two. There is always room for you in my life.”
SOME STORYLINES:
1.
The h: “I was going to meet new people…..Every guy was not Parker (the abusive ex) and now I know the signs of an abuser. I would never allow myself to be with someone like that again.” Zander doesn’t physically hurt Riley, but his words pack a mean punch.
2.
The H’s:
*Family problems (not addressed)
*Temper (not addressed)
*He’s inability to open up to the h -“I wanted to keep Riley away from that part of my life. I hated who I became when I was around my father. I was the worst version of myself; Riley was too sweet for that shit.” - (addressed, but not completely followed through because even near the end he doesn’t open up to the h about how he misses the ow in his life)
3.
The H’s dependency on the ow. When he’s not with the h he’s with the ow.
4.
The ow being in love with the H. Not adequately addressed. What? Has she suddenly magically stopped wanting to stick her tongue down his throat???
*… “I’ve hidden my feelings for years…. “When I see you with Riley…it hurts. Why do you think I treat her badly? It isn’t that I don’t like her…I’m jealous of her. She has you and I don’t want her to. I don’t want anyone to.”
5.
PET PEEVE:
When the h’s family and friends warn the H not to hurt her or he’ll incur their wrath AND THEN THEY WATCH HOW HE HURTS HER OVER AND OVER AGAIN AND THEY DONT DO SHIT EXCEPT TELL HER TO FORGIVE HIM! DEFEND HIM!
Why? Why????
6.
The H continuously messing up:
*“I know I’ve screwed up more than once with you. I know that at times I should have listened to you instead of assuming the worst. I also know that I keep apologizing but then I just screw up again….”
*“I’m so sorry Ry…so fuckin’ sorry I didn’t hold on to you tighter.”
*“I promise you baby no more bullshit.”
*“Even after the way Beth had treated her and how she kissed me, Riley still took care of her.”
*“I pretty much just accused her of getting pregnant on purpose.”
Her: “I’m late Zander.”
Him: I was a little confused at first and then it sunk in and my heart raced, in fact it felt like the fuckin’ thing was gonna beat “out of my chest. “You said you were on the pill. Didn’t you?” I knew I came across a little hateful and I took a deep breath. “Riley, are you on the pill or not?”
ZANDER:
OTT OBSESSED with Riley; adores her to the moon and back. He doesn’t want to be without her. The sweetest gentlest, most loving hero. Until he’d flip a switch. Often. Then he’s cruel, dismissive, sneering, screaming obscenities after which he often storms off with a big “FUCK YOU” to the big players in his life: the h, his bffs, his absentee father etc etc. At each blow up/crying/tearful session I see and understand his frustration/hurt/anger/jealousy, but it feels rather contrived and diva-like for such an otherwise good guy. And Riley doesn’t deserve it.
RILEY:
Initially irritated the shit out of me with her drama queen tendencies. After being in an abusive relationship she goes straight into the more-toxic-than-not relationship with Zander. She forgives and forgives and yet goes on about how strong she is and that she won’t allow another guy to hurt her. Then she forgives again.
BETH:
Snarky, confrontational, don’t mess with me - don’t give 2 shits about anyone but Zander, not even her long suffering boyfriend. Hid her sexual/romantic attraction to the H for years.
ZANDER and BETH:
*They practically live together; they’re in the same band; share a natural physical [not sexual, until it is sexual on her side] and emotional closeness.
*“After my mom passed away I moved in above Beth’s garage. The only true family I had was Beth and her mom…” <—said mother isn’t even on page; that’s how important she is?
*“Beth and I have been best friends so long I don’t remember her not being a part of my life.”
*“she has always been the one person I could count on…”
*“Beth just rode (his bike) along to keep me level headed. She always seems to help me keep my cool. She has the ability to keep me calm…”
*“Beth is fuckin’ hammered …. She said she wants you.”
*Beth: “no offense but Riley seems a little too prissy for today’s activities [paintball]. Are you sure she won’t cry the first time she’s hit? Or break a nail or something?” I couldn’t tell if Beth was annoyed that I had invited Riley or if she was just being a bitch because of her hung over state.”
*Riley: “I watched as he laughed and shoved against Beth while she attempted to grab his controller from him. Beth got up from the couch and threw herself across his lap still trying to block his view from the game.” …“Zander tickled her side and shoved against her waist, at one point Beth bit his shoulder and they laughed as he pushed against her.” “It was like he sensed my concern because he pushed Beth off of his lap and slid closer to me”
*“She’s like a sister to me. Nothing more…you have nothing to worry about when it comes to Beth and I.”
*“I needed to talk to Beth later, though. The touchy feely stuff between us needed to be toned down a little. Mark [the boyfriend] was used to us and the way we were together. He had been around us for years now, but Riley didn’t know yet how to take us.”
*“I reached across the table and took her hand in mine. “This Saturday…you and me, we’ll hang out. Just us two…”
*“I stood up and pulled her from the booth. I took her into my arms and held her tightly. “I love you Beth…that will never change babe.” I kissed her on the cheek..”
*“I stretched out on the couch and Beth curled up beside me under the blanket.”
*“I felt Beth curl into my side and slowly drifted off.”
*“Riley: Beth was sleeping pretty much on top of him with her head on his chest. They were both under the same blanket and his chin was resting on the top of her head. Her arms were wrapped around his waist and his were linked around her shoulders.”
*“The thought had just occurred to me that Beth has been riding [on his bike] with me so many times I had lost count. I had no idea why I had never taken Riley for a ride.”
*Beth: “Shit Riley did we catch you on your knees?”
65% in
“Beth was acting like a spiteful bitch lately and it wasn’t like her. She knows how I feel about Riley; it was almost like she was jealous.”
*“I had my talk with her. Beth admitted that she was jealous. She has always been used to having me around and not having to worry about how we acted. Now things were different, I’m with someone and things don’t appear as innocent.”
*“Uh oh…trouble with the princess again.” I turned around and glared at her. “What? You said no more comments when Riley was around. She’s not here so…I get to be snotty.”
*Beth: “Maybe you guys [Hxh] should take a break and spend some time apart. It might be good for you.”
Zander: I looked at her like she had just lost her mind. “Beth, I can’t seem to figure out what the hell your problem is anymore. You liked Riley in the beginning “and then it all changed. What the fuck happened?”
Beth: “It’s not that I don’t like her Zander. I just don’t think she’s right for you. I mean, I really thought she was just a girl you had a little crush on. Maybe you needed to get it out of your system or something”
“She’s (Riley) not a fling, not something I need to get out of my system, Beth. I love the hell outta Riley and nothing is gonna change that.”
THEN, BETH’S TRUE COLOURS:
80% in: same night he believed Beth over Riley:
*“A hand slipped up over my chest and then a body straddled mine. I gripped her hips and I felt a cold soft tongue slip into my mouth. Riley must have decided to make it up to me. <—REALLY, DUFUS??? YOU fucked up yet she must make it up to you?
Beth: “I love you Zander…I always have.”
The voice brought me back to the present. I shot up and shoved her backwards.
Zander: “What the fuck Beth? What the hell are you doing?”
“I’m sorry I just needed to say it.”
“Why Beth? Why?” …
*“I (Zander) made her [Beth] leave. I told her I loved you (Riley) and that she needed to go home. Nothing else happened and I haven’t talked to her since. I’ve avoided all her calls and messages, I can’t face her.”
*“All this time Beth had been trying to get my attention. She had been playing with Riley’s emotions and I could see it now.”
BETH:
“Zander is like my brother. I love the guy to the moon and back but no way ever would it be more than that.””
*“I’m doing this [inviting Riley to Zander’s music gig] because I love him and I want to see him happy more than anything. He seems to think you can make him happy.”
*“Don’t be such a pussy, Zander. What did you do? Hand your balls over for her to hold on to?”
*“I miss you, Zander. We used to hang out together for hours and now I barely see you. I miss our time together.”
So, yes, a frustrating read for me
There’s so much going on, yet nothing is resolved or even expounded on as the book progresses. Uuurggg.
The worst (or best, depending on how I look at it) is that it’s not even what I would consider a deep meaningful masterpiece, yet I spend so much time reflecting on it later. I was so invested in their lives that I read it in one sitting. I don’t know if I should feel embarrassed about that because, while it's not a complete clunker, the writing is below par, the execution is weak, it’s contradictory, the timeline is out, important issues are brushed over or ignored.
Even after the epilogue, I was left wanting.
LAST PAGE:
” The End
“Or maybe it isn’t…” “
So, I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a follow up book in which I hope Zander gives Beth the boot like he should’ve done here.
Instead, he has his cake and eats it like that Norwegian kayaking athlete who prepped for the Olympics by paddling in the frozen sea.
To avoid frostbite, he placed a spirit heater in his kayak.
The kayak caught fire.
His angry coach: You can’t have your kayak and heat it.”
March 8, 2014
Book – Scarred by Love
Author – C.A. Harms
Publication Date – December 30, 2013
Type – Stand Alone
Genre – Romance, New Adult
Rating – 3 1/2 out of 5 Stars
Book provided by Author (Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.
This book touches a very sensitive subject with women today everywhere….the nightmare of domestic violence. Whether it is while men have been drinking or just in everyday situations – it was very explainable why Riley was as hesitant as she was. It was endearing how her brothers and her parents stepped up to the plate for her and gave her the support she needed to recover.
Other than her past trauma – Riley sets out and wants to live again. She is tired of hiding and is set to get back in the swing of things and this is where she meets Zander. Zander takes one look at Riley and he is smitten, so being the suave college student he is….he fails miserably. Riley shoots him down by laughing at something she thinks is a pick up line but it was only Zander being truthful to her. She later sees Zander with someone else, gets the wrong idea and writes him off for good. It was for the best she continues to tell herself – because bad boys will hurt you every time.
Riley starts dating a preppy guy who is all boring and blah…one who Riley doesn’t feel the stirrings like she did while talking to Zander.
She decides to give Zander a chance and the two of them are immediately progressing quickly with a relationship. Zander knows he met his “ONE” but something stands in the way of these two – something that is constantly around the corner and popping up at the most inopportune times. What is more important to Zander? What will he choose? And can these two ever find the HEA?
The book was good and I enjoyed it mostly…..by mostly, I mean there were times that Riley got on my last nerve with her temper tantrums and Zander irritated me with his pussy ass. I get that he felt Riley was his future, but if he stood up for what he wanted and opened his eyes on what the hell was going on around him – he would have seen the signs and stopped the drama.
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Author – C.A. Harms
Publication Date – December 30, 2013
Type – Stand Alone
Genre – Romance, New Adult
Rating – 3 1/2 out of 5 Stars
Book provided by Author (Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.
This book touches a very sensitive subject with women today everywhere….the nightmare of domestic violence. Whether it is while men have been drinking or just in everyday situations – it was very explainable why Riley was as hesitant as she was. It was endearing how her brothers and her parents stepped up to the plate for her and gave her the support she needed to recover.
Other than her past trauma – Riley sets out and wants to live again. She is tired of hiding and is set to get back in the swing of things and this is where she meets Zander. Zander takes one look at Riley and he is smitten, so being the suave college student he is….he fails miserably. Riley shoots him down by laughing at something she thinks is a pick up line but it was only Zander being truthful to her. She later sees Zander with someone else, gets the wrong idea and writes him off for good. It was for the best she continues to tell herself – because bad boys will hurt you every time.
Riley starts dating a preppy guy who is all boring and blah…one who Riley doesn’t feel the stirrings like she did while talking to Zander.
She decides to give Zander a chance and the two of them are immediately progressing quickly with a relationship. Zander knows he met his “ONE” but something stands in the way of these two – something that is constantly around the corner and popping up at the most inopportune times. What is more important to Zander? What will he choose? And can these two ever find the HEA?
The book was good and I enjoyed it mostly…..by mostly, I mean there were times that Riley got on my last nerve with her temper tantrums and Zander irritated me with his pussy ass. I get that he felt Riley was his future, but if he stood up for what he wanted and opened his eyes on what the hell was going on around him – he would have seen the signs and stopped the drama.
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 18, 2018
2.5 stars
Apart from the fact that I'm approx 10 years too old for this book, it wasn't that bad.
Too much OW drama for my liking. I have no problem when a man has female BFF, but it doesn't mean he should cuddle with her.
A bit slut-shaming, then more OW drama...
The hero was a nice guy, he just f*cked up repeatedly, did good grovel, got the h back and f*cked up again.
Apart from the fact that I'm approx 10 years too old for this book, it wasn't that bad.
Too much OW drama for my liking. I have no problem when a man has female BFF, but it doesn't mean he should cuddle with her.
A bit slut-shaming, then more OW drama...
The hero was a nice guy, he just f*cked up repeatedly, did good grovel, got the h back and f*cked up again.
May 28, 2024
This book has been on my radar for years, but I don’t always love the author, so I’ve put it off.
The blurb sets this up, Riley gets out of an abusive relationship and runs into Zander, a fellow college student/aspiring musician. She’s hesitant because of her bad experience, but they eventually make a go of it. Enter Beth, the “platonic” BFF that’s always showing up and acting bitchy.
I actually like this trope and have read several with a similar plot. (Molly by Krystal Veitch, Flower by Jaclyn Combe, Kade by Chantal Fernando, Heartfelt Lies by Alexandra Christopher) All featured a clueless H with a female BFF wanting more and trying to eliminate the competition. This is most similar to the last two (Kade & HL) in that the main characters are young, and the book has a YA/NA feel rather than adulting.
I had a few issues.
⚫ The tone of the book was immature. There’re TONS of drama, but it’s all teenage-y drama… OTT and unrelatable.
⚫ The H and BFF relationship felt codependent and icky. Molly had the same issue, you can’t say you think of her as a sibling, then cuddle her like a gf. I’m very close with my brother, and you are NEVER going to catch us napping together with my head on his chest. That’s inappropriate not innocent.
⚫ The ending was brushed away with lazy writing. The entire conflict is Riley feeling uncomfortable with Zander and Beth’s relationship while Beth acts inappropriately. Then Beth makes her move opening Zander’s eyes, but suddenly Riley is totally ok and wants them all to be friends. What? You hate her when she’s flirting, but are fine after she accosts him in his sleep? And Beth, after lusting and secretly LOVING him all of her life just shuts those feelings off? That makes ZERO sense.
Bottom Line- This was a miss for me. I love drama and especially OW drama, but I don’t enjoy overdramatic teen drama. I still would’ve rounded up had the ending not felt so manipulated to get a quick HFN. The reason why all the above-mentioned books work (for me) is because the H sees the light and cuts the overstepping BFF off. The h shouldn’t have to put up with her forever. It was illogical how everyone just POOF did a 180 in there way of thinking/feelings.
The blurb sets this up, Riley gets out of an abusive relationship and runs into Zander, a fellow college student/aspiring musician. She’s hesitant because of her bad experience, but they eventually make a go of it. Enter Beth, the “platonic” BFF that’s always showing up and acting bitchy.
I actually like this trope and have read several with a similar plot. (Molly by Krystal Veitch, Flower by Jaclyn Combe, Kade by Chantal Fernando, Heartfelt Lies by Alexandra Christopher) All featured a clueless H with a female BFF wanting more and trying to eliminate the competition. This is most similar to the last two (Kade & HL) in that the main characters are young, and the book has a YA/NA feel rather than adulting.
I had a few issues.
⚫ The tone of the book was immature. There’re TONS of drama, but it’s all teenage-y drama… OTT and unrelatable.
⚫ The H and BFF relationship felt codependent and icky. Molly had the same issue, you can’t say you think of her as a sibling, then cuddle her like a gf. I’m very close with my brother, and you are NEVER going to catch us napping together with my head on his chest. That’s inappropriate not innocent.
⚫ The ending was brushed away with lazy writing. The entire conflict is Riley feeling uncomfortable with Zander and Beth’s relationship while Beth acts inappropriately. Then Beth makes her move opening Zander’s eyes, but suddenly Riley is totally ok and wants them all to be friends. What? You hate her when she’s flirting, but are fine after she accosts him in his sleep? And Beth, after lusting and secretly LOVING him all of her life just shuts those feelings off? That makes ZERO sense.
Bottom Line- This was a miss for me. I love drama and especially OW drama, but I don’t enjoy overdramatic teen drama. I still would’ve rounded up had the ending not felt so manipulated to get a quick HFN. The reason why all the above-mentioned books work (for me) is because the H sees the light and cuts the overstepping BFF off. The h shouldn’t have to put up with her forever. It was illogical how everyone just POOF did a 180 in there way of thinking/feelings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2021
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK decent reads.
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“Stop being a bitch, Riley. You act like we’ve never had sex before. Stop denying me what’s mine and relax already.”
He looked crazed and terrifying. “What’s wrong Riley? Did I scare you?”
“Parker you’re hurting me.”
I slumped against the wall as Parker stood over me yelling out, striking me over and over.
“He fucking hit you?”
I was finding it difficult to get over the shame I had from the entire situation.
The first time Parker hit me he was drunk. Actually every time Parker hit me he had been drunk.
The brunette that was thrusting her tits against my brother’s chest glared at me as I handed a beer to Carson.
“Real smooth dickhead. You invited Kate here with you tonight… remember that. Whore!”
“My girl Riley… not my girlfriend. Bree.”
“Are you still toying with that poor girl? That’s just cruel. You do know she likes you right? …Like really likes you and you just keep stringing her along.”
He winked, “I like her too Riley, especially in my bed.”
Beth was sleeping pretty much on top of him with her head on his chest. They were both under the same blanket and his chin was resting on the top of her head. Her arms were wrapped around his waist and his were linked around her shoulders.
Seeing Beth curled up with Zander made me question their friendship. I hated how it made me feel and I just wanted to forget that I had saw them.
“You know what? I don’t have to stand here and explain anything. In the end you’re not gonna believe me anyway.”
“You’re right Riley this isn’t working anymore. I can’t be who you want me to be. I’m over it. I don’t want this anymore. Just run back to Grant… because we’re done.”
“Shit Riley did we catch you on your knees?” I glared at Beth I couldn’t believe she said that. “GET OUT!”
Beth laughed and then turned toward the door. All three of them walked out but I could still hear them outside.
“Why would you let her talk to me like that?”
“I’m not mad, but for some reason she doesn’t like me. You need to figure that out because the next time she makes a bitchy comment toward me I will defend myself.
Beth was acting like a spiteful bitch lately and it wasn’t like her. She knows how I feel about Riley; it was almost like she was jealous.
“Tell him not to bother calling me. I’m done playing second best when it comes to Beth. I’m done with the competition, I’m done fighting.”
I felt the bed dip next to me and then I felt lips touch mine. At first I thought I had to be dreaming. A hand slipped up over my chest and then a body straddled mine. I gripped her hips and I felt a cold soft tongue slip into my mouth. Riley must have decided to make it up to me. “I love you Zander… I always have.” The voice brought me back to the present.
“What the fuck Beth? What the hell are you doing?” “I’m sorry I just needed to say it.”
“Zander texted me last night but I didn’t respond. I just want him to leave me alone. I’m so tired of being the second girl in his life.”
March 7, 2023
Re-read 3/5/23 why? Because I'm an idoit😅 everything i said below still stands plus
NO WOMAN WOULD EVER BE OK WITH THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHER STAYING FRIENDS WITH THAT BITCH.....also THEY WOULDN'T BEFRIEND HER🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
Maybe I'm just not forgiving enough but damn that does not seem realistic to me in the slightest.
Lost me with the ending
This had me until the end when the h apologizes for ghosting him! Really? After everything the H put the h through reguarding his "bff" he needed to be on his hands and knees begging for forgiveness not the other way around
NO WOMAN WOULD EVER BE OK WITH THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHER STAYING FRIENDS WITH THAT BITCH.....also THEY WOULDN'T BEFRIEND HER🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
Maybe I'm just not forgiving enough but damn that does not seem realistic to me in the slightest.
Lost me with the ending
This had me until the end when the h apologizes for ghosting him! Really? After everything the H put the h through reguarding his "bff" he needed to be on his hands and knees begging for forgiveness not the other way around
maybe
February 27, 2023Lots of drama from H’s bff who is the ow.
(She wrote Forgiving Reed. Didn’t care for her writing)
(She wrote Forgiving Reed. Didn’t care for her writing)
January 30, 2014
*ARC given to blog for honest review* To get your next fix: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
4 out of 5 Hot, Swoony, Heart Squeezing Stars!*
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Well this was a lovely story of a girl scarred by love, but refuses to let it command her life. Riley's battle to conquer her past demons brought on by her abusive ex was inspiring. This was a nice change of pace from the heavy intense read I just finished. Zander was absolutely delicious and he definitely melted my heart and my knickers! He really made the story for me. He was so good to her, but was always filled with a fear that he was going to mess things up and she would leave him.
"I lowered my lips to hers and for a few moments we were lost within each other. When I pulled back she kept her eyes closed a few seconds longer. As they slowly opened she bit her lower lip. That moment I knew I was hooked on Riley. I just hoped that I didn't do something to screw it up." -Zander
The story begins with the last intense moment of Riley's violent relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Parker. That night was the worse that it ever has been and she runs to the safety of her brothers. She was stuck in a depressive state for a long time, hiding for everyone and everything. Riley finally breaks free of the emotionally crippling state she was in. She's convinced to go out to a party with her friends, in order to move on and what not. She meets a strapping sexy fella, who attempts to woo her with some cheesy pick up lines. Despite Zander being off his game that night, their meeting left a longing in both of them. He wants her and can't stop thinking about her. Riley is just as affected by him, but denies her feelings because she saw him dancing and singing with another woman. This other woman is Beth, Zander's childhood best friend. Zander reassures her that their relationship is completely platonic, even though they are very touchy feely. Riley pushes her doubts aside and finally gives in to her overwhelming feelings for Zander and all his sexiness. The connection they share is undeniably hot and consuming. He tries to take things slow with Riley, so that she knows he wants her more than just for sex. The sexual tension is agonizing between them.
"Don't for a second get it in your head that I don't want you. I want you so badly Riley, but I just wanna make sure that when we are together we have something more than that holding us together. Do you understand what I 'm trying to say?" -Zander
Their relationship flourished naturally, but of course, they have a few bumps in the road. Zander at times becomes completely controlled by his anger towards his father and his family, that he unintentionally lashes out on Riley. Those stumbles aren't the only thing that test their relationship along the way. His relationship with Beth as well as his step brother's vendetta against him, put an unfortunate strain on them both. They both still have a guard up on certain parts of their lives, in order to try to protect not only their feelings, but each other.
"I had almost missed out on Zander because I was being pigheaded brat. No more...I was letting my guard down. It was time to give in to the feeling I had when i was with him. It was time to allow myself to feel something for someone again and something was already telling me with Zander it wouldn't be hard to fall." - Riley
They were both scarred by love in the past and yearned for these newly acquired emotions to overcome the battle and heal the scars left behind. Can they use the broken fragments of themselves to mend each other and get to that brightly lit future they both see in the distance? Or will all the mounting obstacles being thrown at them win in the end, to finally drive them apart for good?
"I can't lose you Riley. I love you too much. Tell me we gotta a shot at fixing this...please. Even if you're lying and tomorrow it'll all be different. Just give me this night. Just one night to feel you next to me and imagine that we're okay; I need to get rid of this hurt in my chest. I'm begging you for that. I just want you to lie and tell me we'll be okay." -Zander
Ahh....that was such a heart squeezing moment. I thought this was a great story and enjoyed Riley and Zander's journey. You could feel that their love was real and true. Even the truest love needs to be tested. That's how you know it is true, if it survives the tests. I could sense the storm brewing with the whole woman-best-friend scenario, but I still thought that Zander handled it well in the end. Like I said before, Zander really was the spotlight of this book for me. He was just a swoony hunk of man meat, that I wanted to sink my teeth into for a good bite!
Find me at: http://www.facebook.com/pageturningbo...
Blog: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
4 out of 5 Hot, Swoony, Heart Squeezing Stars!*
[image error]
Well this was a lovely story of a girl scarred by love, but refuses to let it command her life. Riley's battle to conquer her past demons brought on by her abusive ex was inspiring. This was a nice change of pace from the heavy intense read I just finished. Zander was absolutely delicious and he definitely melted my heart and my knickers! He really made the story for me. He was so good to her, but was always filled with a fear that he was going to mess things up and she would leave him.
"I lowered my lips to hers and for a few moments we were lost within each other. When I pulled back she kept her eyes closed a few seconds longer. As they slowly opened she bit her lower lip. That moment I knew I was hooked on Riley. I just hoped that I didn't do something to screw it up." -Zander
The story begins with the last intense moment of Riley's violent relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Parker. That night was the worse that it ever has been and she runs to the safety of her brothers. She was stuck in a depressive state for a long time, hiding for everyone and everything. Riley finally breaks free of the emotionally crippling state she was in. She's convinced to go out to a party with her friends, in order to move on and what not. She meets a strapping sexy fella, who attempts to woo her with some cheesy pick up lines. Despite Zander being off his game that night, their meeting left a longing in both of them. He wants her and can't stop thinking about her. Riley is just as affected by him, but denies her feelings because she saw him dancing and singing with another woman. This other woman is Beth, Zander's childhood best friend. Zander reassures her that their relationship is completely platonic, even though they are very touchy feely. Riley pushes her doubts aside and finally gives in to her overwhelming feelings for Zander and all his sexiness. The connection they share is undeniably hot and consuming. He tries to take things slow with Riley, so that she knows he wants her more than just for sex. The sexual tension is agonizing between them.
"Don't for a second get it in your head that I don't want you. I want you so badly Riley, but I just wanna make sure that when we are together we have something more than that holding us together. Do you understand what I 'm trying to say?" -Zander
Their relationship flourished naturally, but of course, they have a few bumps in the road. Zander at times becomes completely controlled by his anger towards his father and his family, that he unintentionally lashes out on Riley. Those stumbles aren't the only thing that test their relationship along the way. His relationship with Beth as well as his step brother's vendetta against him, put an unfortunate strain on them both. They both still have a guard up on certain parts of their lives, in order to try to protect not only their feelings, but each other.
"I had almost missed out on Zander because I was being pigheaded brat. No more...I was letting my guard down. It was time to give in to the feeling I had when i was with him. It was time to allow myself to feel something for someone again and something was already telling me with Zander it wouldn't be hard to fall." - Riley
They were both scarred by love in the past and yearned for these newly acquired emotions to overcome the battle and heal the scars left behind. Can they use the broken fragments of themselves to mend each other and get to that brightly lit future they both see in the distance? Or will all the mounting obstacles being thrown at them win in the end, to finally drive them apart for good?
"I can't lose you Riley. I love you too much. Tell me we gotta a shot at fixing this...please. Even if you're lying and tomorrow it'll all be different. Just give me this night. Just one night to feel you next to me and imagine that we're okay; I need to get rid of this hurt in my chest. I'm begging you for that. I just want you to lie and tell me we'll be okay." -Zander
Ahh....that was such a heart squeezing moment. I thought this was a great story and enjoyed Riley and Zander's journey. You could feel that their love was real and true. Even the truest love needs to be tested. That's how you know it is true, if it survives the tests. I could sense the storm brewing with the whole woman-best-friend scenario, but I still thought that Zander handled it well in the end. Like I said before, Zander really was the spotlight of this book for me. He was just a swoony hunk of man meat, that I wanted to sink my teeth into for a good bite!
Find me at: http://www.facebook.com/pageturningbo...
Blog: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
January 20, 2014
Scarred By Love was a holy mess of emotions that I could not get enough of!!
Zander and Riley's story was just a wild ride on a roller coaster that you weren't sure was going to stop or keep going.
You were definitely left on the edge of your seat because it seemed like these two could not catch a break to save their lives.
BUT - despite all the drama (some of it totally unavoidable) I still couldn't help but be giddy at times when it came down to Riley and Zander just being in love...being themselves...declaring their love to one another - absolutely adorable!!
I loved Riley - totally feisty and did not take crap from anyone.
(Read the story and you'll know why I inserted this gif LOL).
And Zander was a man on a mission. He did not hesitate to let Riley know how much he wanted her, loved her - although he had tons of obstacles thrown his way. He screwed up...a lot...but in the end, he redeemed himself.
Overall - this gets 4 stars from me. I really wished there wasn't as much drama as there was in here but hey, it still worked out in the end!!!
Zander and Riley's story was just a wild ride on a roller coaster that you weren't sure was going to stop or keep going.
You were definitely left on the edge of your seat because it seemed like these two could not catch a break to save their lives.
BUT - despite all the drama (some of it totally unavoidable) I still couldn't help but be giddy at times when it came down to Riley and Zander just being in love...being themselves...declaring their love to one another - absolutely adorable!!
I loved Riley - totally feisty and did not take crap from anyone.
(Read the story and you'll know why I inserted this gif LOL).
And Zander was a man on a mission. He did not hesitate to let Riley know how much he wanted her, loved her - although he had tons of obstacles thrown his way. He screwed up...a lot...but in the end, he redeemed himself.
Overall - this gets 4 stars from me. I really wished there wasn't as much drama as there was in here but hey, it still worked out in the end!!!
February 5, 2015
This chick cried a river, an ocean and a lake! I think they broke up like 7 times.... This why I tend to stay away from coming of ages books, college life and or young adults type books. This book was just hard to complete. The authors writing was just the characters just annoyed me all the way to Georgia.
April 18, 2014
Riley is a young woman with four over protective brothers. Even though thats true she still finds herself in a relationship with Parker and he turns abusive after a few years together. Her bothers do not know until the night Parker takes it too far and he really beats her up. She goes to her brothers house and one of her brothers go to inject pain on Parker. Carson, her brother, winds up in Jail. Now her whole family knows what happen and they put a restraining order against Parker and keep Riley away from him. After several months she attends a party with her friends and meets Zander. He really likes Riley but she thinks he is using standard pick up lines and gives him the brush off. Then later she sees him with another woman. She doesn't know its his bestfriend Beth, they have grown up together. She thinks its his girlfriend. She is attracted to Zander and she hopes someday to see him again. She does see him again however he splashes her while she is walking and he is riding his bike. She doesn't realize its him until he removes his helment. He takes her for coffee and they decide to go on a date. They get along so well. She has been dating Grant who is quite the gentleman. When she tells him she just wants to be friends, he says okay, but then when she is at his home for lunch with his family she finds out Grant is Zanders stepbrother. They have a falling out, but get back together. This is a very up and down relationship with a lot of other things going on in between. You will enjoy this book. It does have some sexual scenes
January 20, 2014
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review, so here it is. This story is absolutely perfect and I LOVED it, every single page. It starts with Riley at her boyfriend Parker's house and his drunken rant, he hits her more than once. It was time she ended things with him and his abusive behavior. She goes to her brother Carson's and Tanner, another brother, holds her while Carson and his friends pay Parker a visit. After a year of hiding away from people, Riley has finally decided it is time to more on with her life. With four older brothers and Kate, her best friend, who can sit still for long. she moves in with Kate and getting back to school. When Kate suggest she go with her and Carson to a party, she meets Zander and he has a cheesy one liner, or was it. She thinks he might be worth a chance. When things don't work out, she moves on and focuses on college. When she see him again, he is so sexy and he stirs the butterflies in her stomach. Zander has his friends, but Beth is his best friend and has been since age four. Will Beth help Zander win Riley over or will she be a problem? Can Riley give him a chance, if she got to know him? Will he screw it all up? They will go through a lot and hurt each other in the process. A perfect story that will keep you glued to your seat from the first page to the end. I have read all of C.A. Harms' stories and loved them all, but this one, Scarred by Love has got to be my favorite. Can't wait for her next one.
January 16, 2014
I've read all of Ms. Harms' books and this is by far her best. Riley & Zander's story was so real to me I felt like I was living the experience right along with them. Riley isn't your typical girl. She may look all girly but she has four older brothers & has learned how to be quite badass from hanging out with them & their friends. I could easily relate to Riley having an older brother myself & how his friends were like honorary big brothers who had my back.
Zander is a hot, tattoo, guitar singing bad boy who lost his mother to cancer and has a girl as a best friend. I related to Zander because I too know the pain of losing a parent to cancer. I also have had guy friends that my boy friends would struggle to see as just a friend.
Riley and Zander have an immediate sexual chemistry but it takes them awhile to get their shit together. Throw in abusive ex-boyfriends & jealous best friends and you have a relationship fighting to stay a float.
I literally could not put this book down once I started to read it. Go one click right now because you won't be disappointed in this steamy standalone novel!!
http://www.amazon.com/Scarred-Love-C-...
Zander is a hot, tattoo, guitar singing bad boy who lost his mother to cancer and has a girl as a best friend. I related to Zander because I too know the pain of losing a parent to cancer. I also have had guy friends that my boy friends would struggle to see as just a friend.
Riley and Zander have an immediate sexual chemistry but it takes them awhile to get their shit together. Throw in abusive ex-boyfriends & jealous best friends and you have a relationship fighting to stay a float.
I literally could not put this book down once I started to read it. Go one click right now because you won't be disappointed in this steamy standalone novel!!
http://www.amazon.com/Scarred-Love-C-...
April 23, 2014
I received this book for an honest review. I have read a lot of C A Harms books and she never disappoints, this book is one of my favourite books she has written, they get better and better each time. If you want to read a heartwarming romance with electric chemistry between the main characters then you must read this book. Riley's just come out of an abusive relationship. She's just starting to inter grate back into normal life after leaving her abusive ex when she bumps into a hot guy at a party with a cheesy pick up line, she's not impressed, but intrigued and she feels a connection but thinks he's a player. They bump into each other a few times and then Riley sees him sing at a club in a band and thinks he so hot. They start seeing each other, but it's not without obstacles. Zander's best friend Beth stands in the way and he's in turmoil with his own family. Can Zander and Riley get through the obstacles, will love win out. YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK .
March 6, 2023
Re-read 3/5/23 why? Because I'm an idoit😅 everything i said below still stands plus
NO WOMAN WOULD EVER BE OK WITH THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHER STAYING FRIENDS WITH THAT BITCH.....also THEY WOULDN'T BEFRIEND HER🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
Maybe I'm just not forgiving enough but damn that does not seem realistic to me in the slightest.
Lost me with the ending
This had me until the end when the h apologizes for ghosting him! Really? After everything the H put the h through reguarding his "bff" he needed to be on his hands and knees begging for forgiveness not the other way around
NO WOMAN WOULD EVER BE OK WITH THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHER STAYING FRIENDS WITH THAT BITCH.....also THEY WOULDN'T BEFRIEND HER🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
Maybe I'm just not forgiving enough but damn that does not seem realistic to me in the slightest.
Lost me with the ending
This had me until the end when the h apologizes for ghosting him! Really? After everything the H put the h through reguarding his "bff" he needed to be on his hands and knees begging for forgiveness not the other way around
January 27, 2014
**Arc recevied by author in exchange for an honest review**
I’ve read a lot of new adult college romance novels. Most have been good, but some are unrealistic, which makes it hard to make a connection not only to the storyline but to the characters as well. That is definitely not the case with Scarred by Love by C.A. Harms. Right from the beginning, the text is a realistic look into college life and all it entails. The story goes beyond the stereotypical party life and dives in to meatier topics.
When readers meet our heroine, Riley, she is just coming out of an abusive relationship. The aftermath of the abuse does a number on her, but finally, after several months, she is ready to integrate herself back into college life and start living again. On one of her first nights out, she meets Zander; he screams “bad boy,” and although Riley knows she should avoid her “type,” she can’t help but feel a pull towards him. One cheesy line later and an innocent moment taken the wrong way leads Riley away from Zander and towards his half-brother, Grant. Fortunately, Riley doesn’t feel anything for Grant and playing it safe is not what she wants. Finally, both Zander and Riley get their heads together and make a go at a relationship.
As their love for each other develops and deepens, Zander and Riley begin to heal. Zander has not had the easiest life since his mother passed, and he is so full of anger that sometimes he explodes. Riley makes him feel significant; her love helps him to be a more level headed person. Zander helps Riley to trust again – although there are quite a few bumps in the road. She can be herself with him; she definitely is not the damsel in distress that people peg her for – she grew up with four older brothers, so she can definitely hold her own and that shines through with Zander.
But where would a romance novel be without the drama and angst? And while sometimes I felt like it was dragged out and recycled one too many times, it still realistically portrays outside pressures that can potentially destroy a relationship. But through it all, Zander and Riley fight to be together and overcome those obstacles, and even though, it seems like they are not going to get their happily now, they make it work and become better people because of their struggle to get there.
Scarred by Love is a sweet read that provides a realistic look into how two people who are struggling separately can achieve what they want out of life and love by being together.
4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
I’ve read a lot of new adult college romance novels. Most have been good, but some are unrealistic, which makes it hard to make a connection not only to the storyline but to the characters as well. That is definitely not the case with Scarred by Love by C.A. Harms. Right from the beginning, the text is a realistic look into college life and all it entails. The story goes beyond the stereotypical party life and dives in to meatier topics.
When readers meet our heroine, Riley, she is just coming out of an abusive relationship. The aftermath of the abuse does a number on her, but finally, after several months, she is ready to integrate herself back into college life and start living again. On one of her first nights out, she meets Zander; he screams “bad boy,” and although Riley knows she should avoid her “type,” she can’t help but feel a pull towards him. One cheesy line later and an innocent moment taken the wrong way leads Riley away from Zander and towards his half-brother, Grant. Fortunately, Riley doesn’t feel anything for Grant and playing it safe is not what she wants. Finally, both Zander and Riley get their heads together and make a go at a relationship.
As their love for each other develops and deepens, Zander and Riley begin to heal. Zander has not had the easiest life since his mother passed, and he is so full of anger that sometimes he explodes. Riley makes him feel significant; her love helps him to be a more level headed person. Zander helps Riley to trust again – although there are quite a few bumps in the road. She can be herself with him; she definitely is not the damsel in distress that people peg her for – she grew up with four older brothers, so she can definitely hold her own and that shines through with Zander.
But where would a romance novel be without the drama and angst? And while sometimes I felt like it was dragged out and recycled one too many times, it still realistically portrays outside pressures that can potentially destroy a relationship. But through it all, Zander and Riley fight to be together and overcome those obstacles, and even though, it seems like they are not going to get their happily now, they make it work and become better people because of their struggle to get there.
Scarred by Love is a sweet read that provides a realistic look into how two people who are struggling separately can achieve what they want out of life and love by being together.
4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
January 14, 2014
WOW…I finished Scarred Love last night and when I woke up, I already missed Zander and Riley. CA Harms did a fantastic job of setting a realistic college scene in this New Adult book. Not only her main characters but also her supporting characters were consistent and well written throughout. I found myself unable to put the book down due to the anticipation of how the story was going to unfold. I look forward to reading more from CA Harms.
My favorite quote: “I’m gonna give you some time to hate me. But I hope that doesn’t last…because I really need you to love me Riley.”
My favorite quote: “I’m gonna give you some time to hate me. But I hope that doesn’t last…because I really need you to love me Riley.”
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January 30, 2014
**JOSIE'S REVIEW**
This was a very quick read for me. The story pulled me in right after reading the second paragraph. In the prologue, we get a glimpse of Riley’s abusive relationship with Parker. Parker is a heavy drinker and is very violent. Parker believes Riley is his and he can have her anytime he wants. Than one night changes everything for Riley, Parker’s violence took on a whole new level but she survived.
“Stop being a bitch, Riley. You act like we n ever have sec before. Stop denying me what’s mine and relax already.”
Riley and her best friend Katie decide to share an apartment close to her brother Carson and close to campus. Riley is a tough cookie and bares the emotional scars from her relationship with Parker. She knows the type of guy she wants to be with and it sure as heck is not Zander. Riley is not looking for the bay boy, player type. But when Zander sees her a party, he decides to take a chance and approaches her. Riley sees him talking and hanging around with his best friend Beth and does not want this type of problem. She wants safe, secure and reliable. To bad she did not feel that way with Grant. Zander is to die for, but when he sees Riley at the last place he expects, he completely loses it.
“What does he have that I don’t Riley? I mean you ran away from me so fast that night at the party because you thought I was spouting off cheesy pickup lines. We had a moment at that party. I know you thought so too….I could tell.”
Zander’s best friend Beth was a tough one to swallow in this book. She gets Riley to give Zander a chance. The only thing is Beth did not know Zander wanted more from Riley. Riley and Zander fall for each other quick and hard, but Beth is his family and here is where the trouble starts.
“I like you Riley. You’re different, you’re sweet and I really wanna spend more time with you. You have no idea how much I want to kiss you, Riley. Damn. Just one more kiss who the hell was I kidding? One kiss will never be enough.”
I had an instant HATE for Beth. Can we all say MOLE TROLL BEOTCH? Yep because I wanted to jump in my kindle a bitch slap a TROLL. My thoughts for Zander started to change also his mistakes were far too many for me.
“Um…Z, no offense but Riley seems a little too prissy for today’s activities. Are you sure she won’t cry the first time she’s hit? Or break a nail or something?”
“Beth is my best friend, Riley. That’s all we are, I promise. I just need you to know that. She’s like a sister to me. Nothing more, you have nothing to worry about. I want this. You and me…I want it Riley.”
Zander to me was very blind to certain things, and he did not put his relationship with his girlfriend first. He was always justifying his mistakes. Riley on the other hand she knew something was not right, but I loved that she did not always let Zander get away with things. Beth was only making these comments about Riley to Zander and more than half the time, I wanted to smack him.
“Don’t be such a pu**y, Zander. What did you do? Hand your balls over for her to hold on to?”
“F**k you, I deserve to me happy Beth…f**k I’ve been miserable for too f**kin long.”
“I miss you Zander. We used to hang out together for hours and now I barely see you. I miss our time together.”
“I love you Beth…that will never change babe.”
Does anybody find this entire conversation between best friends, A LITTLE TOO INTIMATE?? YEAH GOOD ME TOO!!
Riley was my hero, she was not playing second fiddle to Zander and his BFF. I was stuck with how I felt about Zander and Riley’s relationship. I felt he needed more back bone when it came to his relationship with Riley and Beth, for me those are 2 different things.
“I came over earlier. After I saw how relaxed you two were I realized that I could use some sleep too. Talk to you tomorrow…I’m too tired tonight.”
“Damn it Riley. You think what you saw was more than what it truly was. You need to know it wasn’t, there is nothing but friendship. Riley I need you to believe me when I say you are the only girl that I want.”
Ok you see, I fell for that too but how many times can you keep making the same mistake? When Zander’s biggest mistake cost him the girl he loves, will Riley stay and forgive him again? I mean would you?
“Riley please I’m sorry. I f**ked up.”
“Yeah it seems to be a reoccurring habit lately.”
“I know I screwed up more than once with you. I know that at times I should’ve have listened to you instead of assuming the worst. I also know that I keep apologizing but then I just screw up again. I will tell you that I love you and you mean the world to me. I’m gonna give you some time to hate me. But I hope that doesn’t last…because I really need you to love me, Riley.”
Like I said in the beginning of my review, this was a quick read. It had a bit of angst, jealousy and some really good hot sex. I found myself frustrated at times reading this book. Overall I was happy with the way it ended because as a reader you could see there really was no choice.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very quick read for me. The story pulled me in right after reading the second paragraph. In the prologue, we get a glimpse of Riley’s abusive relationship with Parker. Parker is a heavy drinker and is very violent. Parker believes Riley is his and he can have her anytime he wants. Than one night changes everything for Riley, Parker’s violence took on a whole new level but she survived.
“Stop being a bitch, Riley. You act like we n ever have sec before. Stop denying me what’s mine and relax already.”
Riley and her best friend Katie decide to share an apartment close to her brother Carson and close to campus. Riley is a tough cookie and bares the emotional scars from her relationship with Parker. She knows the type of guy she wants to be with and it sure as heck is not Zander. Riley is not looking for the bay boy, player type. But when Zander sees her a party, he decides to take a chance and approaches her. Riley sees him talking and hanging around with his best friend Beth and does not want this type of problem. She wants safe, secure and reliable. To bad she did not feel that way with Grant. Zander is to die for, but when he sees Riley at the last place he expects, he completely loses it.
“What does he have that I don’t Riley? I mean you ran away from me so fast that night at the party because you thought I was spouting off cheesy pickup lines. We had a moment at that party. I know you thought so too….I could tell.”
Zander’s best friend Beth was a tough one to swallow in this book. She gets Riley to give Zander a chance. The only thing is Beth did not know Zander wanted more from Riley. Riley and Zander fall for each other quick and hard, but Beth is his family and here is where the trouble starts.
“I like you Riley. You’re different, you’re sweet and I really wanna spend more time with you. You have no idea how much I want to kiss you, Riley. Damn. Just one more kiss who the hell was I kidding? One kiss will never be enough.”
I had an instant HATE for Beth. Can we all say MOLE TROLL BEOTCH? Yep because I wanted to jump in my kindle a bitch slap a TROLL. My thoughts for Zander started to change also his mistakes were far too many for me.
“Um…Z, no offense but Riley seems a little too prissy for today’s activities. Are you sure she won’t cry the first time she’s hit? Or break a nail or something?”
“Beth is my best friend, Riley. That’s all we are, I promise. I just need you to know that. She’s like a sister to me. Nothing more, you have nothing to worry about. I want this. You and me…I want it Riley.”
Zander to me was very blind to certain things, and he did not put his relationship with his girlfriend first. He was always justifying his mistakes. Riley on the other hand she knew something was not right, but I loved that she did not always let Zander get away with things. Beth was only making these comments about Riley to Zander and more than half the time, I wanted to smack him.
“Don’t be such a pu**y, Zander. What did you do? Hand your balls over for her to hold on to?”
“F**k you, I deserve to me happy Beth…f**k I’ve been miserable for too f**kin long.”
“I miss you Zander. We used to hang out together for hours and now I barely see you. I miss our time together.”
“I love you Beth…that will never change babe.”
Does anybody find this entire conversation between best friends, A LITTLE TOO INTIMATE?? YEAH GOOD ME TOO!!
Riley was my hero, she was not playing second fiddle to Zander and his BFF. I was stuck with how I felt about Zander and Riley’s relationship. I felt he needed more back bone when it came to his relationship with Riley and Beth, for me those are 2 different things.
“I came over earlier. After I saw how relaxed you two were I realized that I could use some sleep too. Talk to you tomorrow…I’m too tired tonight.”
“Damn it Riley. You think what you saw was more than what it truly was. You need to know it wasn’t, there is nothing but friendship. Riley I need you to believe me when I say you are the only girl that I want.”
Ok you see, I fell for that too but how many times can you keep making the same mistake? When Zander’s biggest mistake cost him the girl he loves, will Riley stay and forgive him again? I mean would you?
“Riley please I’m sorry. I f**ked up.”
“Yeah it seems to be a reoccurring habit lately.”
“I know I screwed up more than once with you. I know that at times I should’ve have listened to you instead of assuming the worst. I also know that I keep apologizing but then I just screw up again. I will tell you that I love you and you mean the world to me. I’m gonna give you some time to hate me. But I hope that doesn’t last…because I really need you to love me, Riley.”
Like I said in the beginning of my review, this was a quick read. It had a bit of angst, jealousy and some really good hot sex. I found myself frustrated at times reading this book. Overall I was happy with the way it ended because as a reader you could see there really was no choice.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2014
Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
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Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
This is a story that is an easy read because the story flowed so well it kept riveted and I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen to this sweet ..but sometimes frustrating couple
Riley and Zander meet at a party and Zander basically falls for Riley at first site. It's really sweet though because Zander is the perfect book boyfriend for 99% of this book. He has some major family problems and that crosses over into some explosive moments but he does always make up for his mistakes. Riley sometimes overreacted and that made me just want to smack her but she has a rough past also.
But when Zander took the final fall ..he was so freaking sweet.
I love my sexy scenes and this book didn't skimp on the sizzle. I thought that they were written with emotion and passion and I can't complain one bit over how hot this book was. Of course I never complain on how hot any book is. :)
So you bring together two broken souls and it took a little time for them to salvage the wreckage of their crushed hearts ..to finally come together in what turned out to be sizzling sweet romance.
Of course this wouldn't have topped the scale on the drama charts if there wasn't a bitch that really screwed with this couple so many times. All things work out and I was really surprised at how the author resolved those conflicts.
So glad we had the opportunity to review this sweet romance.
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
This is a story that is an easy read because the story flowed so well it kept riveted and I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going to happen to this sweet ..but sometimes frustrating couple
Riley and Zander meet at a party and Zander basically falls for Riley at first site. It's really sweet though because Zander is the perfect book boyfriend for 99% of this book. He has some major family problems and that crosses over into some explosive moments but he does always make up for his mistakes. Riley sometimes overreacted and that made me just want to smack her but she has a rough past also.
But when Zander took the final fall ..he was so freaking sweet.
I love my sexy scenes and this book didn't skimp on the sizzle. I thought that they were written with emotion and passion and I can't complain one bit over how hot this book was. Of course I never complain on how hot any book is. :)
So you bring together two broken souls and it took a little time for them to salvage the wreckage of their crushed hearts ..to finally come together in what turned out to be sizzling sweet romance. Of course this wouldn't have topped the scale on the drama charts if there wasn't a bitch that really screwed with this couple so many times. All things work out and I was really surprised at how the author resolved those conflicts.
So glad we had the opportunity to review this sweet romance.
February 14, 2014
Let me start by saying that I enjoyed this book, it was a quick and easy read. I liked the characters and their interactions, of course none of them were without flaw but they were a fun group when they were together. The romance in this book was fabulous, but I did feel like overall there were things missing from this book. But it was a great read, I don’t want to take away from that.
Riley is in an abusive relationship. When she has finally taken the last blow, she finds the courage to walk away. She knows she cannot go back to that situation. She ends up taking some time off of school before going back.
Her first big venture back to school was a party with her brother and best friend. That’s where she meets Zander. He can’t take his eyes off of her and he knows that she is the perfect girl for him. But no matter what he says to her, she thinks his lines are ridiculous and cheesey, but he means every word of them. Just when Riley thinks giving Zander a chance is what she wants, she finds another girl in his arms.
Riley moves on and dates someone else but knows that he and her can never be anything more than friends and ultimately finds her way back to Xander. But will those initial sparks between Riley and Xander be enough to pull them through a relationship? Can she move beyond her past to have a full relationship with Xander? Can they get beyond the people around them to make it work?
As I said at the beginning, I enjoyed this book but there were some things that I was missing. Riley was in an abusive relationship then she left it. This book started out very dramatically when the world around Riley collapsed. I was ready for one of those angsty books that just kept me on the edge of my seat through the entire thing. But, suddenly it’s six months later and Riley seems healed. She goes back to school, goes out with friends… I kind of felt like her brothers were more parinoid with her surroundings than she was. She said time and time again, that she could handle herself.
I know every victim has their own timeline in the healing process and I am not one to judge it. I have never been in that situation so I would never judge the time frame of the process. But what lost me on this traumatic experience was the emotion when she started dating again. I really didn’t see a girl with any pain or fear. I saw someone who fell down and got back up and moved on. I am not sure what the true connection there was. With such a dramatic beginning, I felt like this book was going to take me on this crazy ride through emotional hell. But it didn’t.
Any fear she had of what happened to her, she kept well hidden, so that I couldn’t see it. What I did see was a girl who was falling for a guy and full of incredible insecurity. She hated seeing Xander around his best friend, Beth. That was really the only drama that I saw between them. Fear fuled from insecurity. Maybe I missed it but Riley was a lot braver than I was expecting her to be, which is not a bad thing, just unexpected.
I really did enjoy the characters. Riley had been through hell, but her brothers and her dad just had her best interest in mind and were so protective of her. And Xander was just so adorable and knew how to treat her. He wanted more from their relationship and he was willing to do what it took to make it work. I really liked his charcter. I felt like he was a breath of fresh air. He was not overly alpha (Riley’s brothers on the other hand were 100% Alpha). He was kind and caring and he knew and understood that above all, he was going to love and protect Riley. That was his goal.
I really don’t want to give the impression that I didn’t like this book. I did like it. I love the characters and I love the friendships, I just wasn’t quite sold on the depth of Riley’s trauma. I think I just kept expecting it to resurface and would be the big what-if factor in her new relationship with Xander. But the big road block for them seemed to hinge of jealousy. I thought this author gave so much to make this book so much more, but just didn’t use it all to it’s potential. But again, I enjoyed the book, I was just ready for a lot more. This is a great read and pretty light heared, despite it’s dramatic beginning.
Riley is in an abusive relationship. When she has finally taken the last blow, she finds the courage to walk away. She knows she cannot go back to that situation. She ends up taking some time off of school before going back.
Her first big venture back to school was a party with her brother and best friend. That’s where she meets Zander. He can’t take his eyes off of her and he knows that she is the perfect girl for him. But no matter what he says to her, she thinks his lines are ridiculous and cheesey, but he means every word of them. Just when Riley thinks giving Zander a chance is what she wants, she finds another girl in his arms.
Riley moves on and dates someone else but knows that he and her can never be anything more than friends and ultimately finds her way back to Xander. But will those initial sparks between Riley and Xander be enough to pull them through a relationship? Can she move beyond her past to have a full relationship with Xander? Can they get beyond the people around them to make it work?
As I said at the beginning, I enjoyed this book but there were some things that I was missing. Riley was in an abusive relationship then she left it. This book started out very dramatically when the world around Riley collapsed. I was ready for one of those angsty books that just kept me on the edge of my seat through the entire thing. But, suddenly it’s six months later and Riley seems healed. She goes back to school, goes out with friends… I kind of felt like her brothers were more parinoid with her surroundings than she was. She said time and time again, that she could handle herself.
I know every victim has their own timeline in the healing process and I am not one to judge it. I have never been in that situation so I would never judge the time frame of the process. But what lost me on this traumatic experience was the emotion when she started dating again. I really didn’t see a girl with any pain or fear. I saw someone who fell down and got back up and moved on. I am not sure what the true connection there was. With such a dramatic beginning, I felt like this book was going to take me on this crazy ride through emotional hell. But it didn’t.
Any fear she had of what happened to her, she kept well hidden, so that I couldn’t see it. What I did see was a girl who was falling for a guy and full of incredible insecurity. She hated seeing Xander around his best friend, Beth. That was really the only drama that I saw between them. Fear fuled from insecurity. Maybe I missed it but Riley was a lot braver than I was expecting her to be, which is not a bad thing, just unexpected.
I really did enjoy the characters. Riley had been through hell, but her brothers and her dad just had her best interest in mind and were so protective of her. And Xander was just so adorable and knew how to treat her. He wanted more from their relationship and he was willing to do what it took to make it work. I really liked his charcter. I felt like he was a breath of fresh air. He was not overly alpha (Riley’s brothers on the other hand were 100% Alpha). He was kind and caring and he knew and understood that above all, he was going to love and protect Riley. That was his goal.
I really don’t want to give the impression that I didn’t like this book. I did like it. I love the characters and I love the friendships, I just wasn’t quite sold on the depth of Riley’s trauma. I think I just kept expecting it to resurface and would be the big what-if factor in her new relationship with Xander. But the big road block for them seemed to hinge of jealousy. I thought this author gave so much to make this book so much more, but just didn’t use it all to it’s potential. But again, I enjoyed the book, I was just ready for a lot more. This is a great read and pretty light heared, despite it’s dramatic beginning.
March 26, 2014
5 RAVING...STARS
Riley has had pain in her life that she never should have had to endure,
but with the help of her family and friends she was able to move passed it.
Because of HIM she missed a semester of college now back though she's ready
for some fun and a college party is just the thing.
Seeing her across the dance floor there's just something about her that
called to him. Too bad a cheesy sounding pickup line had her laughing in
his face. Zander knew she was special and when a second chance to convince
her to hang out with him comes along.... he blows it again. Sometimes
misunderstandings can lead to the best things if you're willing to give them a
chance.
There are ups and downs Zander and Riley aren't perfect and they don't
pretend to be, but what they have is real. Riley is my kinda girl with the
right mix of girly girl and tomboy to make her able to fit in anywhere and
stun everyone in the process. Zander is your not so typical bad boy rocker
with a dream for his future you don't expect. He can be hot headed at times
but he shows his emotions for Riley on his sleeves. Their journey is filled
with bumps, but the ending makes it all worth it.
Riley has had pain in her life that she never should have had to endure,
but with the help of her family and friends she was able to move passed it.
Because of HIM she missed a semester of college now back though she's ready
for some fun and a college party is just the thing.
Seeing her across the dance floor there's just something about her that
called to him. Too bad a cheesy sounding pickup line had her laughing in
his face. Zander knew she was special and when a second chance to convince
her to hang out with him comes along.... he blows it again. Sometimes
misunderstandings can lead to the best things if you're willing to give them a
chance.
There are ups and downs Zander and Riley aren't perfect and they don't
pretend to be, but what they have is real. Riley is my kinda girl with the
right mix of girly girl and tomboy to make her able to fit in anywhere and
stun everyone in the process. Zander is your not so typical bad boy rocker
with a dream for his future you don't expect. He can be hot headed at times
but he shows his emotions for Riley on his sleeves. Their journey is filled
with bumps, but the ending makes it all worth it.
August 18, 2016
Sometimes I really like insta love but in this case i fucking detested it. Like I fucking love the snarky/sexy banter the hero and heroine have in books, it's funny and not fucking boring which definitely lacked in Scarred by love - being one of the reasons why i gave it a 1 star rating. As a replacement for this, all of their converstations were about fucking feelings, bestfriend/jealousy shit and fucking boring sex.
ZANDER. Have some fucking boundaries with your fucking bestfriend. why the fuck are you a loser and not the bad boy you're suppose from the description we saw on the blurb.
RILEY. Get over the fact he has a girl bestfriend and stop crying after you see them together even when it's harmless, like you say you're not a prissy girl so why the fuck didn't you just go up to her in the first place and tell her to leave your boyfriend alone, for fuck sake, grow some fucking balls.
Carson and Kate's relationship had me more on edge than yours, and Max and Bree.
So many unanswered questions: what happened to Grant and Parker?
This is what i didn't understand, so the blurb said something and Zander's secret, what the fuck was it? He didn't fucking have one?!
And what the fuck was Riley's? I'm guessing it was the physical abuse, which was a secret to Zander until like 35% into the book.
urgh, this just pissed me off to the max and you won't see re reading this, no waaaaay.
1.2 rating.
ZANDER. Have some fucking boundaries with your fucking bestfriend. why the fuck are you a loser and not the bad boy you're suppose from the description we saw on the blurb.
RILEY. Get over the fact he has a girl bestfriend and stop crying after you see them together even when it's harmless, like you say you're not a prissy girl so why the fuck didn't you just go up to her in the first place and tell her to leave your boyfriend alone, for fuck sake, grow some fucking balls.
Carson and Kate's relationship had me more on edge than yours, and Max and Bree.
So many unanswered questions: what happened to Grant and Parker?
This is what i didn't understand, so the blurb said something and Zander's secret, what the fuck was it? He didn't fucking have one?!
And what the fuck was Riley's? I'm guessing it was the physical abuse, which was a secret to Zander until like 35% into the book.
urgh, this just pissed me off to the max and you won't see re reading this, no waaaaay.
1.2 rating.
August 13, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
This is a sweet love story between Riley and Zander. Riley was hurt in a past long term relationship, she finally decides to go out and live again and meets Zander at a party and thinks his pick up line is cheesy. After stepping away from the party for a few minutes Riley decides to go in and approach Zander but finds him dancing with another girl and gets mad and leaves. Grant walks in and is the total opposite of what Riley is usually interested in, he is think, tattoo free and in a nutshell boring, but there is something about his eyes…….read the book to find out that little tid bit . I felt so connected to Zander, he is every woman’s dream come true, good looking, can sing, loves his mom, has a good head on his shoulders for his future career and he loves with his whole heart. Riley and Zander have some ups and downs but it is a beautiful story and I hope there is another book about one of Riley’s brothers and hopefully we will see appearances by Riley and Zander.
Characters: The characters were well written and the story was so believable.
Sex: yes but not very descriptive
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: I hope there will be another one
Genre: romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
This is a sweet love story between Riley and Zander. Riley was hurt in a past long term relationship, she finally decides to go out and live again and meets Zander at a party and thinks his pick up line is cheesy. After stepping away from the party for a few minutes Riley decides to go in and approach Zander but finds him dancing with another girl and gets mad and leaves. Grant walks in and is the total opposite of what Riley is usually interested in, he is think, tattoo free and in a nutshell boring, but there is something about his eyes…….read the book to find out that little tid bit . I felt so connected to Zander, he is every woman’s dream come true, good looking, can sing, loves his mom, has a good head on his shoulders for his future career and he loves with his whole heart. Riley and Zander have some ups and downs but it is a beautiful story and I hope there is another book about one of Riley’s brothers and hopefully we will see appearances by Riley and Zander.
Characters: The characters were well written and the story was so believable.
Sex: yes but not very descriptive
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: I hope there will be another one
Genre: romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
January 31, 2014
A beaten, bruised and battered Riley has finally started to live again. It had been months since she knocked on her brothers door, terrified, scared, bloodied. It was time and her best friend Kate was going to be the one to help pull her out of this slump. On the other hand, it could Zander that could do that. But right after he hit on Riley, he was dancing with another beautiful blond. Riley had really had it for sure! Men were not worth it! This story was so wonderful and sweet. It had so many moments where I was biting my lip saying to myself, "It has to be NOW! This is time for her to make her move!" And the author held back again....aaahhhhh. But it was so worth the wait. So many unspoken secrets to get in the way. So many twists and turns that left me with my jaw on the floor! I fell in love not only with Riley, but her friends and her brothers. I jumped into the moments with Riley and her quest to find love. The evil brother and the truly good one. Hang on ladies!! You are in for a ride! (in the best sense)!
Thank you C.A. Harms for keeping me on the edge of my seat and running my heart from my toes to head! I loved the "Scarred by Love" book! 10 out of 5 stars from me!!
Thank you C.A. Harms for keeping me on the edge of my seat and running my heart from my toes to head! I loved the "Scarred by Love" book! 10 out of 5 stars from me!!
September 3, 2014
I loved this book and Zander although he can come off as a gruff boy, "what does he have that I don't Riley? I mean you ran away from me so fast that night at the party because you though I was spouting off cheesy pickup lines. How did he convince you to date him? Was it the BMW or maybe the expensive gifts?" I loved the chemistry that Zander and Riley have, "he laughed, "I can't believe you scammed me though, that was cruel. Here I thought I needed to protect you and you ended up beating everyone's a**." He grinned as he lowered his head looking at my lips. "I gotta admit it though...it's really kinda hot." Did I mention the jokes come easy between these two? "I smiled back at her with milk dripping from my chest. "Baby, can I ask you something?" She nodded her head and continued to giggle. "Did you actually think a glass of milk would stop an intruder?" I really loved this book.
September 10, 2016
I received this book for an honest review from the author.
I Loved This Book!!! Riley was in an abusive relationship and is ready to get her life back. Her first night out she goes to a party with her brother Carson and best friend Kate and meets Zander. Zander tries to make a good impression on Riley but keeps messing it up. A while later and some nudging from Beth (Zander's best friend) Riley decides to give him a chance. Can thier budding relationship work with a jealous best friend and Zander's vindictive half brother working against them. This was a great read that was well written, I felt like I could know the characters in real life with real life obsticales to face. I am new to this author and can say I am a fan!
I Loved This Book!!! Riley was in an abusive relationship and is ready to get her life back. Her first night out she goes to a party with her brother Carson and best friend Kate and meets Zander. Zander tries to make a good impression on Riley but keeps messing it up. A while later and some nudging from Beth (Zander's best friend) Riley decides to give him a chance. Can thier budding relationship work with a jealous best friend and Zander's vindictive half brother working against them. This was a great read that was well written, I felt like I could know the characters in real life with real life obsticales to face. I am new to this author and can say I am a fan!
September 27, 2014
I loved almost every aspect of this novel. So much so that I read it all night and into the morning. The style of writing was wonderful and really pulled me into the story. I loved the characters and their passion, but their fighting really started to grate on my nerves a little and the crying constantly by both started to wear on my but besides that this was a wonderful book ignited in passion and love. I would give it more like a 4.5 but that is not a choice. It is through their ups and downs that this book blossoms into an amazing plot and really pulls the reader into the story making you forget about time and space. A great read!
For more reviews, go to my blog bbsbookreviews.com
For more reviews, go to my blog bbsbookreviews.com
do-not-want
March 21, 2014Blurbs are important. If you can't bother to proof a few paragraphs, I can't be bothered to buy your book. Sorry.
October 4, 2015
Maybe a three and a half, it was a reasonable read, and I got it free from Amazon, so can't complain. I would try this author again, see how I enjoy them.
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