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Elite Men of Los Angeles #1

Scarred Heart: Elite Men of Los Angeles - Book 1

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Spencer

I thought I’d buried my past—and the memories of Rowan McNulty—long ago.

Hollywood parties, billion-dollar deals, and a carefully constructed image were supposed to keep me moving forward.

But when I see her across a crowded room, every mistake, every regret comes rushing back.

I broke her heart—and ruined her life. Now she’s stronger, colder, and utterly untouchable.

But there’s something she doesn’t this time, I’m not walking away. Not without answers.

Rowan

Years ago, Spencer Collins wrecked my dreams and left me with scars I’ll never forget. But I rebuilt myself.

I have a career, a life, and a daughter who means everything to me. I don’t need his apologies—or his excuses.

Then he shows up, all charm and arrogance, demanding my time and dredging up the past I worked so hard to escape.

He says he wants to protect his future. But what about the pieces of mine he left shattered?

364 pages, Paperback

Published March 6, 2025

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About the author

Missy Walker

48 books425 followers
Missy is an Australian author who writes kissing books with equal parts angst and steam. She loves writing stories about billionaires, enemies to lovers, and the boy next door- just to name a few.

When she’s not writing, she’s taking care of her two daughters and doting husband.

Inspired by the acreage she lives on, Missy regularly distracts herself by visiting her orchard… some days more often than writing!

Then there’s her overweight cat, Charlie, chickens, and bees if she needed another excuse to pass the time.

And, when the day ends, there’s nothing better than unwinding with a gin and tonic as the sunsets surrounded by the ones she loves.

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5 stars
93 (31%)
4 stars
80 (27%)
3 stars
72 (24%)
2 stars
28 (9%)
1 star
19 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Jetscarbie.
1,001 reviews59 followers
May 12, 2026
This hero was a grade A+ d-bag. There was nothing about him I liked. Everything about him was just slimy. Usually when they find out they have a secret kid, it “changes” them, but not this guy.
(Possible spoilers ahead)

11 years prior, h wanted to be an actress. She met H and they had a whirlwind relationship. Fell in love.
One night, he was being an arse and drove his sports car too fast. Wrecked and h’s face was messed up. He called his rich daddy to help.

Daddy sent him to out of the country (aka Ghosted h) Then dad sent attorneys to pay h off. Made her sign contracts that she would never contact him again.

The book opens where H is boinking some random blonde in a dirty bathroom. Eek his POV about women is DISGUSTING. Anyway, he comes out the bathroom and sees h across the room.

He basically caveman himself right back into her life. There’s some side bit about some bad guy wanting to ruin H’s patent- so H wants to make sure h can’t sell her story 🤦‍♀️
By 35%, they are already having smex. And yes, he finds out h’s 10 year old daughter is his early.

I was already side eyeing h’s parenting. h’s parents keep the daughter during the week. h only gets her daughter on the weekends. Wut? It’s considered “a work situation” because h is an attorney and it makes it simpler.

So the MCs have smex a lot during the week.
Then the 3rd act breakup. It’s leaked to the press about the accident. H immediately accused h….and whoa! That “man” said some awful things to her. Things I could have never forgiven. Idc how great the smex is. Naturally, h didn’t do what he accused her of. It was her jealous sister. The bad guy who wanted to steal his patent hooked up with the sister to get info.

So the 10 year old is the one who has to get the MCs back together. h forgives him right away. No way ugh
This is what she said

“You’re forgiven,” I whispered back, tightening my grip around his neck. “So long as you never ever speak to me like that again. I’m forgiving, but I’m not a doormat.”

Girrrrrl, I hate to tell ya, but you’re definitely a doormat.

Blah
Profile Image for Sienasummerrreads.
774 reviews379 followers
April 21, 2025
It’s been eleven years since they last saw each other. One was left broken and shattered, while the other was forced to walk away. That one night changed everything — but now, seeing each other again, can what’s broken be mended?

I enjoyed this book! At just over two hundred pages, it was a quick and easy romance read. I loved how strong Rowan was, especially after everything she’d been through, and how she didn’t give in too quickly to Spencer. Despite the choices and circumstances that kept them apart, you could really feel their connection and how fate was pulling them back together. There was even a touch of suspense, and the feel-good grand gesture at the end was perfect. The spice was just the right amount, and I loved Hannah a child who is smart and intelligent and had a big heart.

Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 229
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Elite Men Of Los Angeles Series
Tropes or Themes: Hate To Love, Billionaire, Second Chance, Secret Baby, Mutual Pining, Cursing, Past Memories, Trauma, Grovelling, Grand Gesture, Sexual Content and Dirty Talk.
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Profile Image for Jen Smith.
407 reviews5 followers
March 17, 2025
Rowan and Spencer had history laced with misunderstanding. Them figuring out they had been manipulated and working past it was really special. Missy Walker started this book and ended it with spice and filled all the pages with love and romance and a HEA that swept me up in it. Loved it!
1 review
July 2, 2026
I finished it since it was a relatively short book, but I regret not DNF-ing it earlier. The MMC was awful from beginning to end. I can sometimes look past some douche bag traits, but this garbage of a man was the worst I’ve read in a while. The FMC was in fact a “doormat”. I finished it really hoping there was a twist where the FMC realized she deserved so much better and chose self-respect over forgiving this trash bandit, but spoiler she in fact chose the trash bandit. I would rather gouge out my eyeballs than continue with any more of this series.
Profile Image for L_raffertysky.Com.
730 reviews4 followers
May 9, 2026
More hype than substance

There were lots of adverts for this book on my social media. I loved the first two chapters, the history of the two lead characters is fantastic. Then, it's just flat. There's no real excitement of tension built in this book. I wanted more fire from Rowan in regards to how she felt about being near
killed, then abandoned. She rebuilds her trust with Spencer too quickly. I was pretty indifferent during 80% of this book so I wouldnt rush to download the next in the series.
Profile Image for Thereadmuse.
9 reviews
February 27, 2026
This was honestly one of the most frustrating books I’ve ever read. I kept asking myself, what is actually happening here? The story is marketed as a second-chance romance but there is no meaningful growth, accountability or redemption from the male lead.

He causes a reckless accident in his early twenties, which completely derails the heroine’s life and career, leading to plastic surgery and lasting consequences for her. Instead of taking responsibility, he hides behind his father, avoids ownership of his actions, and repeatedly fails to show up when she needs him most. Even after learning about his daughter, he demonstrates little emotional maturity or accountability. There are no real repercussions for his behavior.

What frustrated me most was the lack of backbone given to the female lead. Despite everything he put her through, she forgives him far too easily. By the end, he is still deflecting blame rather than showing genuine growth.

For a story centered on redemption and second chances, it delivered neither.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
169 reviews1 follower
April 6, 2025

Oh woah, those opening 3 chapters were something else! A little smut, a little boring wealthy people party lol , ghosts of the past, but mostly disappointment.
My god, I couldn’t believe the way Spencer approached his conversation with Rowan after 11 years and something incredibly life changing. Even though his inner monologue was regretful, sad, and even lustful, everything that came out of his mouth completely contradicted that.

But dammmmn chapter 4! I never would have seen that coming! Oooh that’s a bomb alright, things got even more interesting real quick!

I loved that Spencer hadn’t even second guessed following Rowan when he found out about Hannah. Then he continued all week to check in on her secretly lol I instantly became a fan after their dinner. He handled everything so well!

16 chapters in & I don’t want it to end. I’m really enjoying their story, lots of excitement going on, their chemistry is off the charts, their damn smut is delicious!!

Well we could see that shi* storm coming from a mile away. I knew Damian was coming through the sister, it made me soo sad for Rowan, I haven’t teared up though any of these Elite Men series, not until Hannah called Spencer, describing the pain her mum was in, man I just felt soo hurt for her! Real life stuff, betrayal, falling in love, heart break, not being heard or listened to. Ah such is life.

HEA’s with an almost teenaged daughter just means a little more somehow. Even though he missed most her life, she’ll now never forget the time her dad came into her life. She’ll never forget the interest he showed in getting to know her, how easy they fit together. It came so naturally to them.

I gotta say, this has been one of my favourites, I am really looking forward to Lex’s story already.

Always love your work Missy xx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for ☆Laura☆.
6,099 reviews65 followers
September 12, 2025
Si Spencer tiene una escena sexual con otra, lo mínimo que esperaba era que Rowan también la tuviera.

Spencer era el típico niño rico que sabía que podía hacer lo que quisiera porque su padre siempre lo sacaba de cualquier problema. Cuando casi mata a Rowan y la deja marcada con cicatrices, su sueño de ser actriz termina y el padre de Spencer la obliga a firmar un acuerdo de confidencialidad y manda a Spencer a otro país para que siga con su vida como si nada. Cuando la vuelve a ver, lo único que hace es acercarse para asegurarse de que ella nunca divulgue lo que pasó; no busca disculparse, demostrando que no ha madurado y que sigue siendo el mismo de siempre.

Para Rowan, él la abandonó, la dejó desfigurada, dejó a su hija, la hizo firmar un acuerdo para que no lo denunciara y se quedara callada. Y cuando se reencuentran, ¿lo primero que hace es ir directo a su cama? No tiene sentido. Hubiera sido mucho más creíble que ella le dijera sus verdades, que lo ignorara o hasta que le diera una cachetada. Pero no, siempre terminan retratando a las protagonistas como mujeres sin dignidad ni amor propio.

Se supone que él sabía del acuerdo, pero como Rowan nunca quiso hablar con él, simplemente decidió seguir con su vida como si nada hubiera pasado. Cada que salia más información sobre el pasado él quedaba peor parado.
Profile Image for SherrecePQ Tanner.
440 reviews9 followers
April 6, 2025
Wow this was an amazing book to start this new series from Missy Walker. Scarred Heart is the first book in the Elite Men of Los Angeles series, and it looks at the relationship of Spencer and Rowan. The emotion and hurt that was felt off of the pages as their story unfolds was palpable.

Rowan's life changed in the blink of an eye, as did Spencer's, and he has spent a decade of trying to bury his past, so when their worlds collide, there is time for Spencer to right those wrongs. But, Rowan has gotten stronger, and her coldness doesn't surprise Spencer, but there is a deeper reason for that, and one she never expected to face. Her reasons, are to protect her daughter, and her heart. But, that passion they both had for each other never died, and Rowan finds herself seeing the man behind the arrogance and charm of that boy she fell in love with. However there is a darkness that follows him and she sees that he has changed, but further misunderstanding may threaten any chance. This book had me on the edge of my chair, and I could not stop reading. Cannot wait for the next books in this series.
Profile Image for Jackie.
646 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2026
DNF chapter 7

Once they went back to his apartment, the writing was one the wall that he was gonne get FMC in bed.

FMC is a doormat and MMC is mos an unredeemable tech-bro douche canoe.

MMC is so obviously the same person he was when he wrecked his car and FMC's face and then called his daddy to get him out of trouble. Then he fucked off to China, sorry, his daddy made him go to China because of the accident and never contacted FMC again.

Daddy pays off FMC, she gets her face fixed, goes to law school, births their child, and then works as a full time lawyer part time parent I guess.

Anyways, he see her at some movie studio function and decides he wants another crack at a relationship but does so under the pretense that he wants to make sure FMC isn't going to sell her story to some mystery guy who is trying to steal a patent from MMC.

Then MMC acts like an annoying child until he gets what he wants, which is FMC in his bed by chapter 7 with 0 apologies and a lame ass excuse of "I tried to find you but didn't know your last name"
3 reviews
April 28, 2026
The 2 stars are for the writing not the story.

I pretty much never review books but man did this mmc suck. I could kind of get past the first betrayal but it took him soooo long to say I’m sorry; and that was it. “I’m sorry” thrown into a random conversation. Then he fucks up big time, says horrible things, and doesn’t even bother to question his decision until his daughter calls and tells him the truth; at which point he still accused the mfc of orchestrating the call. There was zero grovel. He made an animated movie of their story and her daughter says this is where you forgive him…. And she does! The book ends with them saying they need to spend the night talking and her saying she’s not a doormat (yeah sure), but then of course the epilogue is really a prologue to the next book. We don’t even get to find out if the 3 of them are living together or if the daughter is still living with the grandparents 75% of the time.
23 reviews
March 19, 2025
Missy is without a doubt a fantastic writer, I love her books, this was no exception! Great plot, brilliant twists, lots of steam and a fab end! Was really loving the mentions of the other characters and the links that keep this whole universe of missys books somewhat entangled. Loved the way Spencer & Rowan picked up again so long after their early history and we got to read the story unfold. Rowan was a phenomenal woman,although she’d had a tough time, as a reader I empathised with her & rooted for her and her badass independence, she came across as a great mum and fierce lady! Spencer was at the start a bit of a cliche rich guy, only interested in business, but he really unravels and you see his true colours! The chemistry, history and the secrets just made this book another 10/10. Fantastic read!
Profile Image for Emily.
103 reviews
May 28, 2025
'Scarred Heart' - book one of Elite Men Of Los Angeles by Missy Walker. A spin-off series from the Elite Men of Manhattan series.

An exciting new series that takes us to the glamour and fast pace of Los Angeles, where we meet four friends - Spencer Collins, a successful IT entrepreneur; Lex Laundry, heir to the biggest movie studio in Hollywood; Travis Knight, shipping heir and single dad; and Clayton Manning, restauranteur and hotelier.

Spencer Collins lives amongst Hollywood A-listers. He is cousin to Connor Diamond and colleague of Miles Young (both from the Elite Men of Manhattan).

Together, Spencer and Miles are working on a new piece of technology and are eagerly awaiting their patent to be approved.
The race is on, as their rival Damian Fields, who is suspected of the recent arson at Rose Goldsmith's boutique store, is doing the same.

Rowan McNulty is a successful entertainment lawyer. She's worked hard to get where she is, while raising a child with the help of her family.
She had lifelong aspirations to be a star, but scars from an accident where Spencer was the driver when she was 20, put an end to that dream.

Spencer desperately tried to find Rowan after his reckless driving caused the accident that injured her, but she dropped off the earth.

A chance meeting at an awards ceremony brings Spencer and Rowan back into each other's lives 11 years later.

Like all Missy Walker's books, this was an enjoyable easy read that was hard to put down.
A 'second chance' romance with plenty of spice, a sprinkle of mystery & danger and a guaranteed happy ending.
Descriptive, easy to imagine you are there.
Written in first person, it switches between Spencer and Rowan's POV.
I enjoyed watching Spencer's character develop from a bit of a manwhore to a caring and loving man worthy of a strong caring woman.

I loved the relationship between Rowan and her family, they were so supportive and added a lovely element to the story.

A great introduction to the Elite Men of Los Angeles.


The next book in the series is Lex's story, 'Broken Rules'


I received an ARC e-book in return for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Gwen Smith-leak.
369 reviews7 followers
March 21, 2025
Spencer and Rowan knew each other 11 years ago, but it ended with a misunderstanding. . He he went off somewhere because his father told him too as to where she was having his child.. Later they meet and it still a misunderstanding. .They decided to go out to dinner..He was looking to get a patent. And didn’t want any loose ends.. She had a little girl. With so many features that look like her dad.. Only he didn’t know he had a child. His business was broken too, just like her apartment was broken into.. The competitor of his business found pictures of him with his daughter. So much later they made up with the help of daughter.
Profile Image for Sherri.
50 reviews
March 22, 2025
So excited to start a new series by Missy Walker.
This book provided a roller coaster of emotions, mystery, frustration, shock, anger and laughs. This story shows a deeper look in to a world where money can get you out of trouble, cause trouble and create chaos. Spencer and Rowan finally reconnect and it's nothing short of amazing. Highly emotionally charged, full of witty banter, sarcastic comments and intense passion.
I am always impressed with how Missy Walker writes and creates such incredible story lines and characters that you fall in love with and sometimes want to slap some sense in to!!!

Another stellar book ❤️
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in the series!
179 reviews
March 24, 2025
5 stars – What an awesome opening to a new series, the Elite Heirs of Los Angeles! I loved this story. Spencer and Rowan knew each other when they were young adults and then run into each other 10 years later. There is a whole history there but no spoilers from me…You must read this one for yourselves. It is such a good story that I read it in one sitting! Missy’s storyline pulls you in and you just want to know how it all ends up. The characters in this book are so good and I can’t wait to read the next in this series!

A big thank you to Missy Walker for allowing me to read an ARC.
12 reviews
April 1, 2025
I was so excited to learn that Missy will be dropping a new steamy romance series!
The intense and tension between Spencer and Rowan in this alluring first book of Missy’s new series was unmatched as I found myself being unable to stop turning the pages. Without spoiling too much, a trope that Missy has written before in her previous series (but not often) was explored in the most perfect and swoonworthy way possible through the history between our leading characters (also, let’s be real, who could resist icy blue eyes?)
It’s always a pleasure being on Missy’s ARC team and I would not hesitate to give this stars once again.
3,024 reviews35 followers
April 3, 2025
This was an awesome read. Full of drama, history and intense moments.

Spencer and Rowan have a bitter history but when Spencer comes back he is trying to get back together with her, but for her some things can't be forgotten.

These two had chemistry but both are safeguarding themselves so making progress is slow going. Doesn't help that Spencer has a hint of arrogance. Rowan finds it hard to forgive or forget.

Very well done, a first book in the series and a great read. Can't wait for more!
8 reviews
April 10, 2025
Spencer and Rowan have a past but years and life separate them until they run into one another and realize that their feelings are still strong.
Like many of the Elite series, the build up of characters, the emotions so excellently portrayed and the steamy interactions build and keep you intensely connected, turning page after page, wanting to be invested in their story.
Once again, Misty weaves her writing and relationship skills to tell a captivating story filled with emotions and strong characters.
A must read.
Profile Image for Diiey.
691 reviews
May 3, 2026
ehhh

Honestly I skipped a lot. The book just didn’t do it for me. I saw a reel on ig which is what made me want to read it. & while I love my smutty books and dislike slowburn this book would’ve made sense being a slowburn. The fact that she believed he left her after the horrible accident and then almost slept with him after meeting up the 1st time for dinner was ridiculous & then he finds out he is a father and after a few words their 1st reaction is to sleep together? I wanted to DNF this multiple times only reason I didn’t was because it was short
Profile Image for Inge Mosch.
608 reviews12 followers
March 20, 2025
A new series by Missy Walker. When I saw the new book I immediately dove right in, I couldn’t wait! And it didn’t disappointed, I freaking LOVED it. I think it’s impossible to not like a book of Missy but I really really liked this book!
The story is great, I normally don’t really like second chance romances but this one was amazing! The spice is beyond great! Can’t say anything negative about this book! Can’t wait for the rest of the series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
25 reviews
April 2, 2025
I thought it would be challenging to fill the gap left by Elite Men of Manhattan and Elite Heirs but Elite Men of LA is off to a cracking start with Scarred Hearts which included a few nice crossover/ continuity details. I love a good second chance romance where the couple can’t stay away from each other despite the prior miscommunication and this one did not disappoint. Can’t wait for the next instalment in Missy’s multiverse
11 reviews
April 2, 2025
I have to say I was stoked when Missy announced she was coming out with a new series (I've finished all of her books)! Scarred Heart is an amazing start to the series The Elite Men of LA! I loved that this story started years before with love, trauma, and loss. It was also amazing to see the tie-ins from The Elite Men of Manhattan and The Elite Heirs of Manhatttan. I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!!
16 reviews
April 5, 2025
The transition from Manhattan to Los Angeles definitely brings a fresh vibe while keeping the beloved chemistry intact. Spencer and Rowan lived up to my expectations while introducing a new setting and dynamic. Missy’s ability to blend spice, sass, and emotion is unmatched. My anticipation for the rest of the series is beyond intense. Missy provides the perfect balance of excitement and depth that keeps me hooked! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
17 reviews
April 12, 2025
Wow!!! This definately was a tear jerker in some chapters. I loved how Spencer didn't think twice when he figured out he had a daughter. My heart went out to Rowan and what she had to endure in her time of struggle. I'm excited to see what Missy has for the next book (Lex). I lobw Missy's book and her writing. So heartfelt and warming. Oh and her imagination on some of the spicy scenes. Love ya Missy ♥️
Profile Image for Em Wood.
58 reviews
December 16, 2025
I was really disappointed in this book, which is hard to type because I’m a real fan of Missy’s work - usually.

Rowan forgave Spencer far too soon in the beginning and there was no build up or establishment of their connection. Their child’s character definitely portrayed a much older age than 10. So that in itself was difficult to accept or believe.

Honestly, i’d two and a half star it. I won’t be continuing with the series I’ve paid for if this aaa what to expect :(
Profile Image for Christina Fontaine .
24 reviews
March 30, 2025
I'm not sure how Miss Walker has done it again! This book was so good! I went into Scarred Hearts with high expectations after the two Manhattan series, and this book exceeded all my hopes! Spencer and Rowan's story is one I couldn't put down! Straight out of the gate, book 1 in the Elite Men of Los Angeles has me dying for more!
22 reviews
April 2, 2025
I loved this second chance romance and seeing how Rowan and Spencer worked through all the pain and misunderstandings from their past. It was so sweet how Spencer connected with his daughter Hannah.

Scarred Heart is a wonderful start to Missy Walker’s new Elite Men of LA series. Looking forward to Broken Rules.
Profile Image for Yes_I_Read_Lots.
363 reviews13 followers
April 6, 2025
Missy Walker does it again! Scarred Hearts is an emotional, heartfelt read that pulls you in from the first page.

The characters are raw, real, and beautifully broken in a way that makes you root for them every step of the way.

I love Missy’s books, and this one absolutely does not disappoint. Keep them coming, Missy — your storytelling is magic!
3 reviews
April 19, 2025
This new series is incredible... couldn't put it down.. read it in 1 day... Thought Missy couldn't top her other Elite Men series but the LA series first book was full of delicious smut, emotions, secrets that make you want to read these things book asap. Ty you Missy. Your talent is endless and phenomenal. Loving every bit of this series. 😍
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews