What do you think?
Amity #2
Scars of You
Bailey
Three years ago I moved to Amity. This was the place I was going to set my roots and live my life without the constant reminders of the pains of my past. That first night I fell into bed with a sexy stranger, only to find out he’s none other than my neighbor. And he didn’t even remember me or the night we spent together. Or so I thought. Years have past and it seems that may not be the case after all. Even though we don’t get along, our chemistry is impossible to ignore. Turns out the fire between us may not be based on hatred at all. But rather something much more explosive.
Wes
Ten years. Ten years since the entire course of my life was reshaped, and the trauma of it still plagues me nightly. The only time I’m not affected is when I’m driving to nowhere or verbally sparring with my neighbor. The same woman I slept with years ago. I’m drawn to her like a moth to a flame, unable to deny the pull she has on me. The feelings I’ve bottled up for years, growing more and more potent. When she finally gives me the control I crave, we both benefit from it. What starts out as something casual quickly becomes something grounding for us both. But then life throws another curveball at us, and I’m left wondering if the scars of our past will be the thing to truly break us.
Three years ago I moved to Amity. This was the place I was going to set my roots and live my life without the constant reminders of the pains of my past. That first night I fell into bed with a sexy stranger, only to find out he’s none other than my neighbor. And he didn’t even remember me or the night we spent together. Or so I thought. Years have past and it seems that may not be the case after all. Even though we don’t get along, our chemistry is impossible to ignore. Turns out the fire between us may not be based on hatred at all. But rather something much more explosive.
Wes
Ten years. Ten years since the entire course of my life was reshaped, and the trauma of it still plagues me nightly. The only time I’m not affected is when I’m driving to nowhere or verbally sparring with my neighbor. The same woman I slept with years ago. I’m drawn to her like a moth to a flame, unable to deny the pull she has on me. The feelings I’ve bottled up for years, growing more and more potent. When she finally gives me the control I crave, we both benefit from it. What starts out as something casual quickly becomes something grounding for us both. But then life throws another curveball at us, and I’m left wondering if the scars of our past will be the thing to truly break us.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2026
About the author
Madi Danielle
22 books660 followersMadi is 20 something trying to figure out what “adulting” is. Madi has been writing stories since she was a teenager she continues to express all her emotions in her writing. She’s also an avid reader. Madi lives in the PNW where she attended college after moving from the unforgiving heat of Arizona. Madi spends her free time with her husband, daughter and family of pets (3 dogs and 2 cats).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 410 reviews
January 18, 2026
4.5🌟, 3🌶️
This book completely surprised me in the best possible way.
Scars of You pulled me in fast and wrapped me up in emotion, tension, and chemistry that never let up. From the very beginning, I felt deeply connected to the story and the characters, and I knew this was going to be one of those romances that sticks with you.
Bailey and Wes are both carrying heavy emotional baggage, and watching them collide, clash, and slowly soften toward each other was incredibly compelling. The banter is sharp, the slow burn is delicious, and the chemistry simmers right under the surface before finally exploding. Wes is intense and guarded, Bailey is quietly strong and determined to protect her heart, and together they create a connection that feels raw, earned, and deeply emotional. The spice caught me off guard in the best way, but it never overshadowed the heart of their story.
What really makes this book shine is how thoughtfully it handles trauma, healing, and found family. It’s angsty without being overwhelming, emotional without feeling heavy, and romantic in a way that feels genuine and hopeful. I finished this book feeling a little wrecked, very satisfied, and completely invested in this series.
Scars of You strikes a beautiful balance between heart and heat, and I’m so excited to see where this world goes next.
~~~~
Thank you, Madi Danielle & The Smuthood, for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This book completely surprised me in the best possible way.
Scars of You pulled me in fast and wrapped me up in emotion, tension, and chemistry that never let up. From the very beginning, I felt deeply connected to the story and the characters, and I knew this was going to be one of those romances that sticks with you.
Bailey and Wes are both carrying heavy emotional baggage, and watching them collide, clash, and slowly soften toward each other was incredibly compelling. The banter is sharp, the slow burn is delicious, and the chemistry simmers right under the surface before finally exploding. Wes is intense and guarded, Bailey is quietly strong and determined to protect her heart, and together they create a connection that feels raw, earned, and deeply emotional. The spice caught me off guard in the best way, but it never overshadowed the heart of their story.
What really makes this book shine is how thoughtfully it handles trauma, healing, and found family. It’s angsty without being overwhelming, emotional without feeling heavy, and romantic in a way that feels genuine and hopeful. I finished this book feeling a little wrecked, very satisfied, and completely invested in this series.
Scars of You strikes a beautiful balance between heart and heat, and I’m so excited to see where this world goes next.
~~~~
Thank you, Madi Danielle & The Smuthood, for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
January 13, 2026
🎧🎧ALC Review🎧🎧
I didn’t expect to feel as much as I did but I’m glad that I did. This story deserves a lot of feelings and Madi made sure to write the story realistically and respectfully. I’ve come across countless stories that involve circumstances such as the ones that both Bailey & Wes carried that were not treated with the respect they should have, and it has made me twitchy. I don’t have to “live” or have a close personal relationship with “life circumstances” to recognize when they’re given the respect they deserve and this story did that tenfold. I will say that but the story was a minute from ending and I really didn’t have time to sink into the moment enough to have it bother me. Feel me? But it happened. But I digress …
I like that Madi wrote Bailey & Wes with the “power dynamic” that she did and I liked how realistic it came across to me as the reader/listener. I enjoyed the tension and the push/pull they had because it matched their personalities well. I also very much liked the progression of their sexual “awakening.” It added to the tension and really had me fanning myself quite a few times.
There’s a lot of humor in this story but also a whole lot of other emotions. It honestly runs the entire spectrum, which makes for a well balanced story. I wouldn’t say that you need to read/listen to the first book in this series before this one, but I genuinely think you will a lot more comfortable with the story as a whole if you did. Sutton & Jameson (from the first book) play a significant role in this book and not knowing them, might put you at a disadvantage. I took advantage of my Everand subscription to listen to the first book, and it made a difference. I listened back to back and it was a wonderful experience! Do with that information what you will :)
🎧Helena Walters is a new-to-me narrator with this performance, and I am seriously stoked to get more audiobooks that she has narrated. She has the kind of voice that has a multitude of ranges and is very distinct every time and with the array of characters this story had, that’s a huge plus. I also love the low-key sultry nature to her voice. It paired really well with Sean Masters’ gravely and assertive tone. *shivers* These two made an incredible team, especially when the 🫦sexy🫦 got going! *fans self* ❤️🔥❤️🔥
I didn’t expect to feel as much as I did but I’m glad that I did. This story deserves a lot of feelings and Madi made sure to write the story realistically and respectfully. I’ve come across countless stories that involve circumstances such as the ones that both Bailey & Wes carried that were not treated with the respect they should have, and it has made me twitchy. I don’t have to “live” or have a close personal relationship with “life circumstances” to recognize when they’re given the respect they deserve and this story did that tenfold. I will say that but the story was a minute from ending and I really didn’t have time to sink into the moment enough to have it bother me. Feel me? But it happened. But I digress …
I like that Madi wrote Bailey & Wes with the “power dynamic” that she did and I liked how realistic it came across to me as the reader/listener. I enjoyed the tension and the push/pull they had because it matched their personalities well. I also very much liked the progression of their sexual “awakening.” It added to the tension and really had me fanning myself quite a few times.
There’s a lot of humor in this story but also a whole lot of other emotions. It honestly runs the entire spectrum, which makes for a well balanced story. I wouldn’t say that you need to read/listen to the first book in this series before this one, but I genuinely think you will a lot more comfortable with the story as a whole if you did. Sutton & Jameson (from the first book) play a significant role in this book and not knowing them, might put you at a disadvantage. I took advantage of my Everand subscription to listen to the first book, and it made a difference. I listened back to back and it was a wonderful experience! Do with that information what you will :)
🎧Helena Walters is a new-to-me narrator with this performance, and I am seriously stoked to get more audiobooks that she has narrated. She has the kind of voice that has a multitude of ranges and is very distinct every time and with the array of characters this story had, that’s a huge plus. I also love the low-key sultry nature to her voice. It paired really well with Sean Masters’ gravely and assertive tone. *shivers* These two made an incredible team, especially when the 🫦sexy🫦 got going! *fans self* ❤️🔥❤️🔥
January 18, 2026
ARC
5 Stars
Spice: 2.5/5
Bailey (aka Angel)
Barista / Owner of the Roasted Bean in Amity
Introvert
Abusive childhood - parents and one older brother were drug addicts
Served as her younger sisters protector after her brothers left home, feels she failed her sister
She moved away from / does not communicate with her sibling's as it pushes to the surface too many memories
Those same memories still weigh her down
Hooked up with a stranger (met at a bar) the first night she moved to Amity. Turns out that stranger is her neighbor
Not a fan of said neighbor since he seems to pretend he doesn't remember the hook up and also not a fan of his loud car that he takes out at night to go who knows where
Made some friends in town but doesn't open up about her childhood
Wes (aka grumpy aersehole)
Bailey's neighbor and bane of her existence (until he's not)
Army Vet (Apache Pilot)
Army was his identity
Hit in the leg by shrapnel that ended his military career
Military was the only vision he had until he met Bailey
PTSD
no living relatives
Feels like he's wasting his chance at a second life
Takes his car out at night for long drives since sleep evades him and he has nightmares
Pretends he doesn't remember the hook up but that's a lie, he remembers every detail
Can see the darkness in Bailey that mirrors his
Doesn't like to be around large groups of people
Friends with Jameson who has a small farm
Helps out at the farm as a form of therapy (horses are great listeners and they don't talk back)
Dirty mind / mouth
This is the story of two traumatized souls that live each day with the fear of their memories taking them down (or in Wes's case, taking him out)
It takes 3 years for Wes & Bailey to to finally succumb to what's been there all along
The book is heartbreakingly emotional but it's also full of love, lust, redemption, friends and community.
Loved the addition of Bruno & Sadie
Vern has expanded his vocabulary
Check your trigger warnings
Thank you to Madi Danielle and The Smuthood for the opportunity to read and review an advanced reader copy.
5 Stars
Spice: 2.5/5
Bailey (aka Angel)
Barista / Owner of the Roasted Bean in Amity
Introvert
Abusive childhood - parents and one older brother were drug addicts
Served as her younger sisters protector after her brothers left home, feels she failed her sister
She moved away from / does not communicate with her sibling's as it pushes to the surface too many memories
Those same memories still weigh her down
Hooked up with a stranger (met at a bar) the first night she moved to Amity. Turns out that stranger is her neighbor
Not a fan of said neighbor since he seems to pretend he doesn't remember the hook up and also not a fan of his loud car that he takes out at night to go who knows where
Made some friends in town but doesn't open up about her childhood
Wes (aka grumpy aersehole)
Bailey's neighbor and bane of her existence (until he's not)
Army Vet (Apache Pilot)
Army was his identity
Hit in the leg by shrapnel that ended his military career
Military was the only vision he had until he met Bailey
PTSD
no living relatives
Feels like he's wasting his chance at a second life
Takes his car out at night for long drives since sleep evades him and he has nightmares
Pretends he doesn't remember the hook up but that's a lie, he remembers every detail
Can see the darkness in Bailey that mirrors his
Doesn't like to be around large groups of people
Friends with Jameson who has a small farm
Helps out at the farm as a form of therapy (horses are great listeners and they don't talk back)
Dirty mind / mouth
This is the story of two traumatized souls that live each day with the fear of their memories taking them down (or in Wes's case, taking him out)
It takes 3 years for Wes & Bailey to to finally succumb to what's been there all along
The book is heartbreakingly emotional but it's also full of love, lust, redemption, friends and community.
Loved the addition of Bruno & Sadie
Vern has expanded his vocabulary
Check your trigger warnings
Thank you to Madi Danielle and The Smuthood for the opportunity to read and review an advanced reader copy.
January 14, 2026
so beautiful <3
January 13, 2026
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
omg this series keeps getting better and better. I love this one, my heart broke a little in places, but I still absolutely loved Wes and Bailee.
These poor little hurt babies come with so much emotional baggage, but seeing them be able to work through it and open up to each other (after a whole lot of delicious hate to love tension) had me sobbing.
✨ Small Town
✨ Hate to Love
✨ One Night Stand
✨ Neighbors to Lovers
✨ Found Family
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
omg this series keeps getting better and better. I love this one, my heart broke a little in places, but I still absolutely loved Wes and Bailee.
These poor little hurt babies come with so much emotional baggage, but seeing them be able to work through it and open up to each other (after a whole lot of delicious hate to love tension) had me sobbing.
✨ Small Town
✨ Hate to Love
✨ One Night Stand
✨ Neighbors to Lovers
✨ Found Family
January 12, 2026
4.5 stars!
This book!!
First of all this was my first by Madi Danielle & it absolutely won’t be my last. I need to go back for more characters stories!!
Scars of You was such a beautiful story, full of bantered, chemistry, tension, and so much emotion! This book had me in tears and feeling these characters struggles so deeply. My heart ached for the pain they felt, but the story of two broken souls finding healing in each other was just so beautiful!
Wes & Bailey had me laughing, swooning, and kicking my feet through this book! & the spice!! I wasn’t expecting from this story!! The perfect blend of heat & emotion to keep you sucked in and rooting for these two! I absolutely loved it. I was hooked from the beginning!
You are absolutely going to want to pick this one up!!
Thank you Madi Danielle & The Smuthood for this early copy!!!
This book!!
First of all this was my first by Madi Danielle & it absolutely won’t be my last. I need to go back for more characters stories!!
Scars of You was such a beautiful story, full of bantered, chemistry, tension, and so much emotion! This book had me in tears and feeling these characters struggles so deeply. My heart ached for the pain they felt, but the story of two broken souls finding healing in each other was just so beautiful!
Wes & Bailey had me laughing, swooning, and kicking my feet through this book! & the spice!! I wasn’t expecting from this story!! The perfect blend of heat & emotion to keep you sucked in and rooting for these two! I absolutely loved it. I was hooked from the beginning!
You are absolutely going to want to pick this one up!!
Thank you Madi Danielle & The Smuthood for this early copy!!!
January 20, 2026
"We are both fucked up and damaged beyond repair, but together we’re different."
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
HE REMEMBERED.
I need to begin there.
Because Bailey has spent THREE YEARS believing the gorgeous stranger she slept with on her first night in Amity forgot all about her.
Meanwhile, Wes remembers every detail and has simply chosen to stand next door being a grumpy a$$hole about it.
SIR.
That is not memory loss.
That is foreplay with an unnecessary administrative delay. 😭
Bailey moved to Amity hoping to finally put down roots and build a life untouched by the pain of her past. On her first night in town, she falls into bed with a sexy stranger.
Wonderful.
Fresh start. Excellent cardio. No notes.
Then she discovers that stranger is her new neighbor.
And he acts like he doesn’t remember her.
Straight to jail.
For three years, Bailey and Wes bicker across the property line while pretending the chemistry between them is hatred.
The woman owns the Roasted Bean.
The man owns a loud car and drives it through the night.
She thinks he’s the bane of her existence.
He calls her Angel while behaving like something sent directly from hell to disturb her peace.
I AM SAT.
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Neighbors
✨ One-Night Stand
✨ He Remembers Everything
✨ Grumpy x Grumpy’s Favorite Person
✨ Army Veteran MMC
✨ PTSD Representation
✨ Childhood-Trauma Representation
✨ Hurt/Comfort
✨ Found Family
✨ Safe Words
✨ Protective MMC
✨ Casual Becomes Grounding
✨ Three Years of Denial
Bailey is an introvert, a business owner, and a woman who has built an entire life around surviving without needing too much from anyone.
Her parents and older brother struggled with addiction, leaving Bailey to protect her younger sister while she was still a child herself.
She carries the crushing belief that she failed.
Let me be very clear:
A CHILD SHOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR SAVING ANOTHER CHILD.
But trauma does not care about logic.
It leaves guilt in places where responsibility never belonged.
Bailey distances herself from her siblings because contact drags every buried memory back to the surface. She has made friends in Amity, but she never fully opens the door to her childhood.
She lets people see the coffee-shop owner.
The capable woman.
The one who made it out.
She does not let them see what it cost.
Oh, my HEART.
Bailey broke me because her fear is not only that someone will discover her darkness.
It’s that they’ll confirm what she already believes about herself.
That she wasn’t enough.
That she failed the people she loved.
That her scars make her too damaged to hold onto anything good.
PROTECT BAILEY AT ALL COSTS.
I have scrubs, trauma shears, and several unresolved anger issues.
Point me toward her family.
Then we have Wes.
A former Army Apache pilot whose entire future disappeared when shrapnel ended his military career.
Wes did not simply lose a job.
He lost the identity he had built his life around.
The Army was his purpose, his plan, and the only version of the future he could clearly see. Now he has a second chance at life but no idea what to do with it.
He has no living relatives.
He doesn’t sleep because the nightmares are waiting.
He takes his loud car on aimless nighttime drives because movement feels safer than lying still with his memories.
Bailey hears the engine and thinks, “There goes my inconsiderate neighbor.”
Wes is really trying to outrun a war that followed him home.
EXCUSE ME WHILE I LIE FACE-DOWN ON THE FLOOR.
He also spends time helping at Jameson’s farm because the work gives him something solid to hold onto.
And the horses listen without talking back.
Honestly? Ideal therapists.
No judgment.
No unsolicited advice.
Excellent hair.
Wes has walls higher than mountains, but he recognizes the darkness inside Bailey because it mirrors his own. Neither one needs the other to explain what it feels like to live in fear of a memory suddenly pulling you under.
They see it.
They recognize it.
They just spend three years arguing instead of discussing it like adults.
Romance! 🥰
Wes pretends not to remember their night together because apparently silence, hostile banter, and continued fixation seemed like a reasonable emotional strategy.
Again:
HE REMEMBERS EVERYTHING.
Every detail.
This man has been standing next door carrying a complete mental archive while Bailey believes she was forgettable.
WES, I NEED YOU TO REPORT TO MY OFFICE.
Bring the car keys and an explanation.
Their banter was delicious because it wasn’t empty hostility. Every insult carried awareness. Every argument had tension beneath it. Every time Wes picked at Bailey, I could feel how closely he was actually watching her.
She thinks he’s irritating her recreationally.
This man is studying her breathing patterns.
Their chemistry does not slowly appear.
It has been sitting between their houses for three years, smoking a cigarette and wondering when these idiots will acknowledge it.
When they finally give in?
FINALLY.
I was ready to file the paperwork myself.
What begins as something casual quickly becomes grounding for both of them. Bailey can surrender control without becoming unsafe, while Wes can take control without feeling powerless against the rest of his life.
That dynamic worked because it was built around trust.
And SAFE WORDS.
We love communication with our spice.
We love boundaries.
We love a dirty-mouthed grump who can talk a woman through it while still ensuring she has a clear way to stop everything.
Two peppers, but those peppers came with control, tension, and three years of repressed chemistry finally receiving authorization to detonate.
THE PRESSURE RELEASE.
Emergency services were notified.
There were no survivors.
Wes may have a dirty mind and an even dirtier mouth, but what truly got me was the way he became obsessed with Bailey’s safety.
He picks on her.
He irritates her.
He acts like she personally ruined silence for him.
But he checks on her.
He watches for what she needs.
He respects her boundaries even while wanting to dismantle every wall behind them.
A grumpy man being gentle only with one woman?
Unfortunately, that remains protected under my fictional constitution.
The rest of the world gets Grumpy A$$hole Wes.
Bailey gets the man who remembers everything.
EVERYTHING.
I’m not over it.
Do not ask me to move on.
Their relationship is not about one broken person fixing another.
THANK GOD.
Bailey cannot erase Wes’s PTSD. Wes cannot reach backward and rescue the child Bailey used to be.
What they can do is create moments where neither person has to carry everything alone.
Their connection becomes a place to rest.
Not a cure.
Not salvation.
Just somewhere safe enough to breathe.
That distinction made the romance hit so much harder.
I also loved the friends and community surrounding them. Amity feels like the kind of town where everyone knows you’re sleeping with your neighbor before you’ve personally updated your relationship status.
Privacy?
No.
Casseroles and unsolicited emotional support?
Absolutely.
Bruno and Sadie were wonderful additions, and Vern expanding his vocabulary had me laughing. Those lighter moments kept the story from drowning beneath the weight of Bailey and Wes’s trauma.
Because this book is heartbreaking, but it isn’t hopeless.
It is full of love, lust, redemption, friendship, and people choosing to show up even when Bailey and Wes aren’t entirely sure how to let them.
My biggest complaint is that I wanted more of both characters’ histories—especially Bailey’s.
Her past is essential to how she sees herself, her siblings, and every relationship she has built in Amity. I understood the broad shape of what happened, but I wanted more time inside her memories and emotional processing.
Not because I needed additional suffering.
The woman has suffered enough.
I wanted a deeper connection to the specific experiences that created her guilt and isolation.
Give me the conversations she avoids.
The memories she buries.
The exact fracture that made distance from her siblings feel safer than love.
LET ME IN, BAILEY.
I BROUGHT COFFEE.
More background for Wes would have strengthened his journey too. Losing his military career altered every part of his identity, and I wanted additional space devoted to the man he was before the injury and the man he feared he could never become afterward.
Both characters had enough emotional depth for a much longer excavation.
Hand me the shovel.
I work nights.
Even with that, SCARS OF YOU gave me two beautifully imperfect people learning that being scarred does not make them incapable of love.
Bailey believes she failed everyone.
Wes believes he is wasting the life he survived.
Together, they begin seeing possibilities neither could find alone.
Four stars for the barista, the former Apache pilot, and three years of hostile neighbor behavior that was absolutely just unresolved sexual tension wearing combat boots.
Please check the author’s content warnings before reading. This story deals with childhood abuse, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and suicidal thoughts.
Wes and Bailey did not heal each other.
They simply found someone willing to sit beside the scars without looking away.
And if Wes wants to take Angel for another late-night drive?
Move over.
I’m coming too.
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
HE REMEMBERED.
I need to begin there.
Because Bailey has spent THREE YEARS believing the gorgeous stranger she slept with on her first night in Amity forgot all about her.
Meanwhile, Wes remembers every detail and has simply chosen to stand next door being a grumpy a$$hole about it.
SIR.
That is not memory loss.
That is foreplay with an unnecessary administrative delay. 😭
Bailey moved to Amity hoping to finally put down roots and build a life untouched by the pain of her past. On her first night in town, she falls into bed with a sexy stranger.
Wonderful.
Fresh start. Excellent cardio. No notes.
Then she discovers that stranger is her new neighbor.
And he acts like he doesn’t remember her.
Straight to jail.
For three years, Bailey and Wes bicker across the property line while pretending the chemistry between them is hatred.
The woman owns the Roasted Bean.
The man owns a loud car and drives it through the night.
She thinks he’s the bane of her existence.
He calls her Angel while behaving like something sent directly from hell to disturb her peace.
I AM SAT.
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Neighbors
✨ One-Night Stand
✨ He Remembers Everything
✨ Grumpy x Grumpy’s Favorite Person
✨ Army Veteran MMC
✨ PTSD Representation
✨ Childhood-Trauma Representation
✨ Hurt/Comfort
✨ Found Family
✨ Safe Words
✨ Protective MMC
✨ Casual Becomes Grounding
✨ Three Years of Denial
Bailey is an introvert, a business owner, and a woman who has built an entire life around surviving without needing too much from anyone.
Her parents and older brother struggled with addiction, leaving Bailey to protect her younger sister while she was still a child herself.
She carries the crushing belief that she failed.
Let me be very clear:
A CHILD SHOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR SAVING ANOTHER CHILD.
But trauma does not care about logic.
It leaves guilt in places where responsibility never belonged.
Bailey distances herself from her siblings because contact drags every buried memory back to the surface. She has made friends in Amity, but she never fully opens the door to her childhood.
She lets people see the coffee-shop owner.
The capable woman.
The one who made it out.
She does not let them see what it cost.
Oh, my HEART.
Bailey broke me because her fear is not only that someone will discover her darkness.
It’s that they’ll confirm what she already believes about herself.
That she wasn’t enough.
That she failed the people she loved.
That her scars make her too damaged to hold onto anything good.
PROTECT BAILEY AT ALL COSTS.
I have scrubs, trauma shears, and several unresolved anger issues.
Point me toward her family.
Then we have Wes.
A former Army Apache pilot whose entire future disappeared when shrapnel ended his military career.
Wes did not simply lose a job.
He lost the identity he had built his life around.
The Army was his purpose, his plan, and the only version of the future he could clearly see. Now he has a second chance at life but no idea what to do with it.
He has no living relatives.
He doesn’t sleep because the nightmares are waiting.
He takes his loud car on aimless nighttime drives because movement feels safer than lying still with his memories.
Bailey hears the engine and thinks, “There goes my inconsiderate neighbor.”
Wes is really trying to outrun a war that followed him home.
EXCUSE ME WHILE I LIE FACE-DOWN ON THE FLOOR.
He also spends time helping at Jameson’s farm because the work gives him something solid to hold onto.
And the horses listen without talking back.
Honestly? Ideal therapists.
No judgment.
No unsolicited advice.
Excellent hair.
Wes has walls higher than mountains, but he recognizes the darkness inside Bailey because it mirrors his own. Neither one needs the other to explain what it feels like to live in fear of a memory suddenly pulling you under.
They see it.
They recognize it.
They just spend three years arguing instead of discussing it like adults.
Romance! 🥰
Wes pretends not to remember their night together because apparently silence, hostile banter, and continued fixation seemed like a reasonable emotional strategy.
Again:
HE REMEMBERS EVERYTHING.
Every detail.
This man has been standing next door carrying a complete mental archive while Bailey believes she was forgettable.
WES, I NEED YOU TO REPORT TO MY OFFICE.
Bring the car keys and an explanation.
Their banter was delicious because it wasn’t empty hostility. Every insult carried awareness. Every argument had tension beneath it. Every time Wes picked at Bailey, I could feel how closely he was actually watching her.
She thinks he’s irritating her recreationally.
This man is studying her breathing patterns.
Their chemistry does not slowly appear.
It has been sitting between their houses for three years, smoking a cigarette and wondering when these idiots will acknowledge it.
When they finally give in?
FINALLY.
I was ready to file the paperwork myself.
What begins as something casual quickly becomes grounding for both of them. Bailey can surrender control without becoming unsafe, while Wes can take control without feeling powerless against the rest of his life.
That dynamic worked because it was built around trust.
And SAFE WORDS.
We love communication with our spice.
We love boundaries.
We love a dirty-mouthed grump who can talk a woman through it while still ensuring she has a clear way to stop everything.
Two peppers, but those peppers came with control, tension, and three years of repressed chemistry finally receiving authorization to detonate.
THE PRESSURE RELEASE.
Emergency services were notified.
There were no survivors.
Wes may have a dirty mind and an even dirtier mouth, but what truly got me was the way he became obsessed with Bailey’s safety.
He picks on her.
He irritates her.
He acts like she personally ruined silence for him.
But he checks on her.
He watches for what she needs.
He respects her boundaries even while wanting to dismantle every wall behind them.
A grumpy man being gentle only with one woman?
Unfortunately, that remains protected under my fictional constitution.
The rest of the world gets Grumpy A$$hole Wes.
Bailey gets the man who remembers everything.
EVERYTHING.
I’m not over it.
Do not ask me to move on.
Their relationship is not about one broken person fixing another.
THANK GOD.
Bailey cannot erase Wes’s PTSD. Wes cannot reach backward and rescue the child Bailey used to be.
What they can do is create moments where neither person has to carry everything alone.
Their connection becomes a place to rest.
Not a cure.
Not salvation.
Just somewhere safe enough to breathe.
That distinction made the romance hit so much harder.
I also loved the friends and community surrounding them. Amity feels like the kind of town where everyone knows you’re sleeping with your neighbor before you’ve personally updated your relationship status.
Privacy?
No.
Casseroles and unsolicited emotional support?
Absolutely.
Bruno and Sadie were wonderful additions, and Vern expanding his vocabulary had me laughing. Those lighter moments kept the story from drowning beneath the weight of Bailey and Wes’s trauma.
Because this book is heartbreaking, but it isn’t hopeless.
It is full of love, lust, redemption, friendship, and people choosing to show up even when Bailey and Wes aren’t entirely sure how to let them.
My biggest complaint is that I wanted more of both characters’ histories—especially Bailey’s.
Her past is essential to how she sees herself, her siblings, and every relationship she has built in Amity. I understood the broad shape of what happened, but I wanted more time inside her memories and emotional processing.
Not because I needed additional suffering.
The woman has suffered enough.
I wanted a deeper connection to the specific experiences that created her guilt and isolation.
Give me the conversations she avoids.
The memories she buries.
The exact fracture that made distance from her siblings feel safer than love.
LET ME IN, BAILEY.
I BROUGHT COFFEE.
More background for Wes would have strengthened his journey too. Losing his military career altered every part of his identity, and I wanted additional space devoted to the man he was before the injury and the man he feared he could never become afterward.
Both characters had enough emotional depth for a much longer excavation.
Hand me the shovel.
I work nights.
Even with that, SCARS OF YOU gave me two beautifully imperfect people learning that being scarred does not make them incapable of love.
Bailey believes she failed everyone.
Wes believes he is wasting the life he survived.
Together, they begin seeing possibilities neither could find alone.
Four stars for the barista, the former Apache pilot, and three years of hostile neighbor behavior that was absolutely just unresolved sexual tension wearing combat boots.
Please check the author’s content warnings before reading. This story deals with childhood abuse, addiction, PTSD, trauma, and suicidal thoughts.
Wes and Bailey did not heal each other.
They simply found someone willing to sit beside the scars without looking away.
And if Wes wants to take Angel for another late-night drive?
Move over.
I’m coming too.
January 14, 2026
I loved the first book in this series, Embers of You, so I couldn’t wait to read this book and it was absolutely wonderful. I loved that Bailey and Wes both had past traumas that made them resistant to getting close to people but ultimately it brought them even closer together and they got their HEA. I loved the way they have a found family of friends that provide them comfort and the way animals are incorporated into the book (who doesn’t love dogs and horses?!). There are some trigger warnings so make sure to read those but I think the author writes about these sensitive issues with care. Thank you to Madi Danielle and Smuthood Promotional Services for the opportunity to read this early!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. What a heartfelt dark, emotionally draining story. when two broken hearts can only heal each other, this is the story you get. From the start I knew that once they saw themselves in each other and what needed to be fixed not only in their own hearts, but in each other's hearts, I knew that the relationship was going to explode.
The FMC was the epitome of stubborn, never needing any help from anyone. When in reality she needed that one person who had similar reflections of themselves.
The MMC has severe, traumatizing PTSD from being in the army, that alone was enough to make me want to keep reading and seeing how he can overcome it. However, it does take a dark turn, but the outcome is exactly what we all hoped for.
The FMC was the epitome of stubborn, never needing any help from anyone. When in reality she needed that one person who had similar reflections of themselves.
The MMC has severe, traumatizing PTSD from being in the army, that alone was enough to make me want to keep reading and seeing how he can overcome it. However, it does take a dark turn, but the outcome is exactly what we all hoped for.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75⭐️
arc review
Oh my heart😭 When two broken people find eachother it's just so beautiful. Wes with a traumatic past and Bailey who pushes herself from her family afraid shes never enough. Forced proximity coming into play being neighbors and having two friends who are with eachother? BEAUTIFUL.
Bailey and Wes having a past and then denying how they feel making that tension so delicious. The banter? On point🤭 the spice?! SPICIN. I love safe words in books hehe and it was perfect here😛
I wish there was more past on both their parts but mainly Baileys, just to form more of a connection to her and getting inside her head more. But I did feel for her being an older sister and having pressure on you to be more. But her family is just so sweet it made her so easy to love 🥹
Wes is such a broken soul with walls higher than mountains. But Bailey broke down parts of him he didnt know existed. I loved how he picked on her but kept hos boundaries and was obsessed with her safety and checking on her 😭
thank you Madi for this earc in exchange for an honest review 💜
arc review
Oh my heart😭 When two broken people find eachother it's just so beautiful. Wes with a traumatic past and Bailey who pushes herself from her family afraid shes never enough. Forced proximity coming into play being neighbors and having two friends who are with eachother? BEAUTIFUL.
Bailey and Wes having a past and then denying how they feel making that tension so delicious. The banter? On point🤭 the spice?! SPICIN. I love safe words in books hehe and it was perfect here😛
I wish there was more past on both their parts but mainly Baileys, just to form more of a connection to her and getting inside her head more. But I did feel for her being an older sister and having pressure on you to be more. But her family is just so sweet it made her so easy to love 🥹
Wes is such a broken soul with walls higher than mountains. But Bailey broke down parts of him he didnt know existed. I loved how he picked on her but kept hos boundaries and was obsessed with her safety and checking on her 😭
thank you Madi for this earc in exchange for an honest review 💜
January 17, 2026
Thank you so much for this ARC review! This is actually the second book by Madi Danielle that I've had the pleasure of reading, and I managed to read both within a day of each other.
Maybe it wasn't taking away your future, but guiding you onto the path you were truly meant to walk. Perhaps we both can learn to embrace the risks that scare us—sometimes we just need to take that leap.
If you enjoy stories with spicy enemies-to-lovers tropes, small-town romances, grumpy characters, veteran stories, or found family themes, then this book might really resonate with you.
Please be aware that the story contains sensitive topics such as PTSD, depression, mentions of suicide, childhood abuse, and substance abuse. The first chapter does a wonderful job of immediately drawing us into the characters' current situations, offering a heartfelt glimpse into their lives.
I truly appreciated the genuine portrayal of Bailey and Wes. The author stayed authentic to their personalities throughout, showing how even without dramatic changes, they were willing to grow and adapt for those they love.
Special mentions to Bruno and Sadie, who added extra warmth to the story.
I gladly give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars—it was a very moving read that made me cry and deeply touched my heart.
I loved the story and the characters, and I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series.
Maybe it wasn't taking away your future, but guiding you onto the path you were truly meant to walk. Perhaps we both can learn to embrace the risks that scare us—sometimes we just need to take that leap.
If you enjoy stories with spicy enemies-to-lovers tropes, small-town romances, grumpy characters, veteran stories, or found family themes, then this book might really resonate with you.
Please be aware that the story contains sensitive topics such as PTSD, depression, mentions of suicide, childhood abuse, and substance abuse. The first chapter does a wonderful job of immediately drawing us into the characters' current situations, offering a heartfelt glimpse into their lives.
I truly appreciated the genuine portrayal of Bailey and Wes. The author stayed authentic to their personalities throughout, showing how even without dramatic changes, they were willing to grow and adapt for those they love.
Special mentions to Bruno and Sadie, who added extra warmth to the story.
I gladly give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars—it was a very moving read that made me cry and deeply touched my heart.
I loved the story and the characters, and I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC & ALC Review 📖 🎧
Scars of You
Amity Book 2
Written by Madi Danielle
A One night stand between the new girl and the townie. Now they can't stop thinking about each other but she hates him. Oh and the icing on the cake for Bailey is that Wes is her neighbor and never stops seeing him. The heated banter between them is always welcome.
The push and pull between these two is addictive. I know that sparks will fly when they both finally give into each other. He is doing all he can to push her to give in to him. When they share their first kiss it's fire and so worth the wait for everyone. I love that as their relationship shifts he is soft only for her.
They both have past traumas that keep them closed off to a romantic relationship and the build up to them getting their HEA is exactly what I was hoping for both of them.
#Enimiestolovers
#Smalltownromance
#Foundfamily
Scars of You
Amity Book 2
Written by Madi Danielle
A One night stand between the new girl and the townie. Now they can't stop thinking about each other but she hates him. Oh and the icing on the cake for Bailey is that Wes is her neighbor and never stops seeing him. The heated banter between them is always welcome.
The push and pull between these two is addictive. I know that sparks will fly when they both finally give into each other. He is doing all he can to push her to give in to him. When they share their first kiss it's fire and so worth the wait for everyone. I love that as their relationship shifts he is soft only for her.
They both have past traumas that keep them closed off to a romantic relationship and the build up to them getting their HEA is exactly what I was hoping for both of them.
#Enimiestolovers
#Smalltownromance
#Foundfamily
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐
💗 Small Town Romance
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Neighbours (Forced Proximity)
💗 Introverted MC's
Honestly, again, some of my least favourite tropes but Madi's writing always makes me happy and I love her stories regardless of tropes.
This book was no different to the first in the series in terms of loving the characters, loving the plot, loving the storyline and the angst!
This book definitely had an emotional storyline and a lot of trauma and PTSD.
I loved the main characters. I loved seeing more from other characters in the series.
I received this book in advance as an ARC but I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
💗 Small Town Romance
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Neighbours (Forced Proximity)
💗 Introverted MC's
Honestly, again, some of my least favourite tropes but Madi's writing always makes me happy and I love her stories regardless of tropes.
This book was no different to the first in the series in terms of loving the characters, loving the plot, loving the storyline and the angst!
This book definitely had an emotional storyline and a lot of trauma and PTSD.
I loved the main characters. I loved seeing more from other characters in the series.
I received this book in advance as an ARC but I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
September 7, 2026
This was an absolutely incredible "enemies" to lovers romance. It was so well written and had such a great pace. This had some really emotional moments that had me feeling all the feels. Wes and Bailey had such great chemistry and I loved the tension between them. And the spice - this was hot hot hot, but also had some tender and sweet moments. The audio was great & the narrators did well showing these two broken people fall in love.
January 16, 2026
First, thank you so much for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
Second, …wow like really wow. These characters have so much unresolved trauma and this story really does a great job of showing the mindset one might be in while dealing with that. What asking for help looks like, what struggling looks like, what trying to cope without professional help looks like. The bond the two main characters share, although technically started out rough, the readers really get to see how much they rely on each other even before ever admitting it to themselves.
Third, hug your friends, hug your family, hug your furry and feathered friends. I think we won’t always know what’s going on in the lives of those around us so it’s so important to move with grace and compassion and show up for those who may need it. I’m really glad this book included so much of that. It may be hard to talk about but it’s so imperative to do so!
Second, …wow like really wow. These characters have so much unresolved trauma and this story really does a great job of showing the mindset one might be in while dealing with that. What asking for help looks like, what struggling looks like, what trying to cope without professional help looks like. The bond the two main characters share, although technically started out rough, the readers really get to see how much they rely on each other even before ever admitting it to themselves.
Third, hug your friends, hug your family, hug your furry and feathered friends. I think we won’t always know what’s going on in the lives of those around us so it’s so important to move with grace and compassion and show up for those who may need it. I’m really glad this book included so much of that. It may be hard to talk about but it’s so imperative to do so!
June 28, 2025
beta read <3 (it’s gonna go to my head that i’m the first review for this beautiful perfect amazing incredible book)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one was the perfect balance of new characters and revisiting some that you already know and love. Once this one hooks you, there's no way you'll be able to put it down before finishing.
January 14, 2026
This was my first Madi Danielle and the second book in the series, and while I did enjoy the story overall, I think my experience would have been stronger if I had started with book one. Several returning characters play important roles here, and having that background adds helpful context and emotional investment. The first few chapters felt like I'd jumped into a romance mid-story, so while I enjoyed this overall, I think I might have enjoyed it more after reading book one.
At its core, this is an angsty neighbors to lovers romance built on forced proximity, slow burn tension, and two deeply wounded characters finding connection. Wes is an ex military alpha hero struggling with PTSD and survivor’s guilt, while Bailey is carrying the weight of a painful childhood and complicated family dynamics that have left her emotionally guarded. Watching two broken people cautiously circle each other, test boundaries, and slowly build trust is one of the book’s strongest elements, and the push and pull between them is genuinely compelling. It's also what made me want to pick up a book mid-series. This emotional element.
Where the story shines most is in Wes’s character arc. His PTSD felt thoughtfully written and emotionally authentic, and the scenes depicting his struggles were some of the most impactful in the book. His gradual softening, especially in how he becomes protective and gentle with Bailey, adds real depth to his role as a romantic lead. Bailey’s growth is present as well, especially in her journey toward setting boundaries and reclaiming her sense of self, but her backstory felt underexplored. There is significant buildup around her childhood trauma, yet very few concrete details are revealed on the page, which made her emotional resolution feel a bit rushed. And the whole drama around it almost unncessary.
In general, though, I did feel there were some underdeveloped elements. The PIECES are all here for a compelling romance, but it almost felt at times like the book wasn't quite sure what it wanted to be. It went hard on the spice in the back half...and I love SPICE, but at times it even pulled you out of the bigger emotional arcs. The sexual tension builds well, their first kiss is satisfying, and the spice is undeniably intense. There are moments where that intimacy works beautifully to show vulnerability and connection, especially in how Wes prioritizes Bailey’s safety and emotional comfort. However, at times the volume of explicit scenes felt repetitive and began to overshadow the emotional development I wanted to see more of or context I felt we were missing. The back stories in general felt a little sparse, and for a book with such intense emotional themes, I just wanted a bit more to really connect to those arcs, and to the characters (Bailey in particular).
The audiobook experience is GREAT though. Part of why I picked this up was because of Sean Masters. He's a fav narrator and he's amazing here as always and perfect as Wes. I was new to the female narrator Helena Walters , but I really enjoyed her. Both Tbrought strong emotional range and chemistry, making it easy to stay engaged even during slower or more repetitive sections. Their performances added nuance and helped elevate the story as a whole. And both have an inexplicable alluring quality to their voices. I loved them both and really loved the audio.
Despite some pacing and balance issues, this book has a solid emotional foundation, strong character chemistry, and a satisfying slow burn when it comes to trust and intimacy. Overall, I found it engaging and would recommend it to readers who enjoy emotionally driven romances with forced proximity, military heroes, and high heat. I do want to go back and check out book 1 too.
Story:3.5 stars
Audio: 4.5 stars
At its core, this is an angsty neighbors to lovers romance built on forced proximity, slow burn tension, and two deeply wounded characters finding connection. Wes is an ex military alpha hero struggling with PTSD and survivor’s guilt, while Bailey is carrying the weight of a painful childhood and complicated family dynamics that have left her emotionally guarded. Watching two broken people cautiously circle each other, test boundaries, and slowly build trust is one of the book’s strongest elements, and the push and pull between them is genuinely compelling. It's also what made me want to pick up a book mid-series. This emotional element.
Where the story shines most is in Wes’s character arc. His PTSD felt thoughtfully written and emotionally authentic, and the scenes depicting his struggles were some of the most impactful in the book. His gradual softening, especially in how he becomes protective and gentle with Bailey, adds real depth to his role as a romantic lead. Bailey’s growth is present as well, especially in her journey toward setting boundaries and reclaiming her sense of self, but her backstory felt underexplored. There is significant buildup around her childhood trauma, yet very few concrete details are revealed on the page, which made her emotional resolution feel a bit rushed. And the whole drama around it almost unncessary.
In general, though, I did feel there were some underdeveloped elements. The PIECES are all here for a compelling romance, but it almost felt at times like the book wasn't quite sure what it wanted to be. It went hard on the spice in the back half...and I love SPICE, but at times it even pulled you out of the bigger emotional arcs. The sexual tension builds well, their first kiss is satisfying, and the spice is undeniably intense. There are moments where that intimacy works beautifully to show vulnerability and connection, especially in how Wes prioritizes Bailey’s safety and emotional comfort. However, at times the volume of explicit scenes felt repetitive and began to overshadow the emotional development I wanted to see more of or context I felt we were missing. The back stories in general felt a little sparse, and for a book with such intense emotional themes, I just wanted a bit more to really connect to those arcs, and to the characters (Bailey in particular).
The audiobook experience is GREAT though. Part of why I picked this up was because of Sean Masters. He's a fav narrator and he's amazing here as always and perfect as Wes. I was new to the female narrator Helena Walters , but I really enjoyed her. Both Tbrought strong emotional range and chemistry, making it easy to stay engaged even during slower or more repetitive sections. Their performances added nuance and helped elevate the story as a whole. And both have an inexplicable alluring quality to their voices. I loved them both and really loved the audio.
Despite some pacing and balance issues, this book has a solid emotional foundation, strong character chemistry, and a satisfying slow burn when it comes to trust and intimacy. Overall, I found it engaging and would recommend it to readers who enjoy emotionally driven romances with forced proximity, military heroes, and high heat. I do want to go back and check out book 1 too.
Story:3.5 stars
Audio: 4.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Check TWs before you read*
Ughhh Wes & Bailey were breaking my dang heart. These are 2 very broken people that end up needing each other and falling in love.
I was LIVING for their banter and the sass that Bailey consistently gave Wes. She just didn't know that he loved the sass. They definitely were in sync when it came to *spicy time* and the spice was sooooo freaking hott. 🥵
I do feel that the ending was a little rushed. I would have liked more moments of them happy and in love.
Overall, it was a heartwrenching love story with a hard earned happy ending. I'm SOOOO excited for Parker & Lily.
Ughhh Wes & Bailey were breaking my dang heart. These are 2 very broken people that end up needing each other and falling in love.
I was LIVING for their banter and the sass that Bailey consistently gave Wes. She just didn't know that he loved the sass. They definitely were in sync when it came to *spicy time* and the spice was sooooo freaking hott. 🥵
I do feel that the ending was a little rushed. I would have liked more moments of them happy and in love.
Overall, it was a heartwrenching love story with a hard earned happy ending. I'm SOOOO excited for Parker & Lily.
January 24, 2026
"We are both fucked up and damaged beyond repair, but together we’re different."
- Chapter 46, 94%
Not gonna lie, I was crying toward the ending. It was so sad but also heartwarming.
The overall story was good but I wish there were more details on Bailey's past. It was so vaguely mentioned and the solving also felt rushed. Maybe I need to read Brynn and Brent (Bailey's sister and brother) books to understand more about their family (bad) story.
I also felt like the story was kinda being dragged and repetitive. The relationship between Bailey and Wes were complicated, for me it was fast but also so slow burning. Another miss for me was there was no explanation on what triggered Wes and Bailey finally gave up their three years of dislike relationship. They were just suddenly onto each other. The lack of chronological timeline bothered me.
Thank you to Madi Danielle and The Smuthood for the ARC.
- Chapter 46, 94%
Not gonna lie, I was crying toward the ending. It was so sad but also heartwarming.
The overall story was good but I wish there were more details on Bailey's past. It was so vaguely mentioned and the solving also felt rushed. Maybe I need to read Brynn and Brent (Bailey's sister and brother) books to understand more about their family (bad) story.
I also felt like the story was kinda being dragged and repetitive. The relationship between Bailey and Wes were complicated, for me it was fast but also so slow burning. Another miss for me was there was no explanation on what triggered Wes and Bailey finally gave up their three years of dislike relationship. They were just suddenly onto each other. The lack of chronological timeline bothered me.
Thank you to Madi Danielle and The Smuthood for the ARC.
Read
February 13, 2026dnf@50%
They had a ONS 3 years ago, and even though the Mmc is literally her neighbor, he acts like “That Night” never happened. The Fmc is equally frustrating—annoying, stuck in denial, and suffering from this so-called body betrayal syndrome. Honestly, I can’t stand how the Mmc is in full control here, as if he can just show up anytime and stake a claim on her and act like nothing happened the very next minute 🙄. And the Fmc? She’s ridiculous with this body betrayal syndrome nonsense.
Girl, isn’t this the same guy who treated you like trash? Have some damn self-respect. It’s so mind-fucking.
One More ''That Night'' repetition. I will bite!
They had a ONS 3 years ago, and even though the Mmc is literally her neighbor, he acts like “That Night” never happened. The Fmc is equally frustrating—annoying, stuck in denial, and suffering from this so-called body betrayal syndrome. Honestly, I can’t stand how the Mmc is in full control here, as if he can just show up anytime and stake a claim on her and act like nothing happened the very next minute 🙄. And the Fmc? She’s ridiculous with this body betrayal syndrome nonsense.
Girl, isn’t this the same guy who treated you like trash? Have some damn self-respect. It’s so mind-fucking.
One More ''That Night'' repetition. I will bite!
August 25, 2025
Beta read. RTC 🤭🤭
January 14, 2026
Thank you so much Madi Danielle, and the Smuthood, for this arc!
I’m one to jump headfirst into emotionally challenging reads, and this was exactly that. Wes and Bailey were two broken souls who were having trouble figuring out how and where they fit in.
I think what I loved the most is that their trust within one another was a slow burn. You felt all of their emotions, hesitations, and reservations when it came to a relationship and letting someone in. It felt authentic in the way that you have to build trust and earn it, and they did that with each other.
Wes’ story was beautiful, and you could tell that Madi Danielle put her all into his backstory. It was well thought out and researched. PTSD is sometimes hard to write about, because it’s so easy to misinterpret, but Wes felt authentic. I wanted to reach out and give him a hug. Those scenes where he was having an episode, really pulled on your heartstrings!
What didn’t work for me was some of the writing. Parts of this felt very repetitive and long winded. The chapters were short, thank god, because I was having a really hard time trying to stay engaged. Issues with the character’s personal lives were talked about every single chapter, and it seemed like there was no end in sight.
Hailey, specifically, felt juvenile, and spiteful at times, when it came to her family. I get the trauma and I get the hurt behind what went on, but, it’s mentioned every chapter that her siblings reach out, and she doesn’t respond. It doesn’t do anything for me. At that point, just put a time lapse in the book, because it became really annoying. I get that she doesn’t want to talk to them… She’s a grown woman and has that right, but, it could’ve been more about Hailey setting boundaries.
The spice was so good. It was full of angst and tension! Wes is so hot, he had me blushing….
Every chapter, though? Ehh… Became a little much. It’s like the book didn’t know whether or not it wanted to be smut or not. On one page, you had these super emotional conversations, and on the other, they were fuckin their brains out! Whiplash! Don’t get me wrong, I love smut, but at one point, I just started skimming through it. It lost its touch!
🌻Small Town Romance
🧡Enemies to Lovers
🌻Neighbors
🧡Army Vet
🌻Mental Health Rep
I’m one to jump headfirst into emotionally challenging reads, and this was exactly that. Wes and Bailey were two broken souls who were having trouble figuring out how and where they fit in.
I think what I loved the most is that their trust within one another was a slow burn. You felt all of their emotions, hesitations, and reservations when it came to a relationship and letting someone in. It felt authentic in the way that you have to build trust and earn it, and they did that with each other.
Wes’ story was beautiful, and you could tell that Madi Danielle put her all into his backstory. It was well thought out and researched. PTSD is sometimes hard to write about, because it’s so easy to misinterpret, but Wes felt authentic. I wanted to reach out and give him a hug. Those scenes where he was having an episode, really pulled on your heartstrings!
What didn’t work for me was some of the writing. Parts of this felt very repetitive and long winded. The chapters were short, thank god, because I was having a really hard time trying to stay engaged. Issues with the character’s personal lives were talked about every single chapter, and it seemed like there was no end in sight.
Hailey, specifically, felt juvenile, and spiteful at times, when it came to her family. I get the trauma and I get the hurt behind what went on, but, it’s mentioned every chapter that her siblings reach out, and she doesn’t respond. It doesn’t do anything for me. At that point, just put a time lapse in the book, because it became really annoying. I get that she doesn’t want to talk to them… She’s a grown woman and has that right, but, it could’ve been more about Hailey setting boundaries.
The spice was so good. It was full of angst and tension! Wes is so hot, he had me blushing….
Every chapter, though? Ehh… Became a little much. It’s like the book didn’t know whether or not it wanted to be smut or not. On one page, you had these super emotional conversations, and on the other, they were fuckin their brains out! Whiplash! Don’t get me wrong, I love smut, but at one point, I just started skimming through it. It lost its touch!
🌻Small Town Romance
🧡Enemies to Lovers
🌻Neighbors
🧡Army Vet
🌻Mental Health Rep
January 19, 2026
ARC - 4 🌟 2 🌶️
🧡 Small Town Romance
🤎 Enemies to Lovers
🧡 Neighbors
🤎 Army Vet
🧡 Mental Health Rep
Scars of You sucked me in almost immediately and just… never let go. From page one, I felt so connected to the story and to Bailey and Wes that I knew this was going to be a story of his own kind.
Bailey and Wes are both carrying so much emotional baggage, and watching them crash into each other, push back, and then slowly, let their walls down was UGH. The slow burn? Immaculate. The banter is sharp, the tension is constant, and the chemistry is simmering under the surface before it finally explodes. Wes is intense, guarded, and honestly made me want to hug him and never let go, and Bailey is quietly strong and determined to protect her heart. Their connection felt raw, earned, and deeply emotional. And yes, the spice definitely surprised me (Wes surprised me the most👀), but it never overshadowed the heart of their story.
What really made this book shine for me, though, is how well Madi handles the trauma, healing, and found family subjects. It’s angsty without being too much, emotional without feeling heavy, and romantic in a way that feels genuine and hopeful. Wes’s PTSD especially felt so authentic and thoughtfully written, you can tell Madi really put care into his backstory. Those scenes where he struggles? Absolutely pulled on my heartstrings. I just wanted to crawl into the book and comfort him.
Also, can we talk about the found family vibes? The friends, the comfort, the animals, it all added so much warmth to the story. There are trigger warnings, so definitely check those, but the sensitive topics are handled with a lot of care.
I loved the first book (Embers of You), but this one completely sealed the deal for me. I finished it feeling a little wrecked, very satisfied, and fully invested in this series. It strikes the perfect balance between heart and heat, and I’m already dying to see where this world goes next.
Thank you so much Madi and The Smut Hood PR for this arc opportunity!
🧡 Small Town Romance
🤎 Enemies to Lovers
🧡 Neighbors
🤎 Army Vet
🧡 Mental Health Rep
Scars of You sucked me in almost immediately and just… never let go. From page one, I felt so connected to the story and to Bailey and Wes that I knew this was going to be a story of his own kind.
Bailey and Wes are both carrying so much emotional baggage, and watching them crash into each other, push back, and then slowly, let their walls down was UGH. The slow burn? Immaculate. The banter is sharp, the tension is constant, and the chemistry is simmering under the surface before it finally explodes. Wes is intense, guarded, and honestly made me want to hug him and never let go, and Bailey is quietly strong and determined to protect her heart. Their connection felt raw, earned, and deeply emotional. And yes, the spice definitely surprised me (Wes surprised me the most👀), but it never overshadowed the heart of their story.
What really made this book shine for me, though, is how well Madi handles the trauma, healing, and found family subjects. It’s angsty without being too much, emotional without feeling heavy, and romantic in a way that feels genuine and hopeful. Wes’s PTSD especially felt so authentic and thoughtfully written, you can tell Madi really put care into his backstory. Those scenes where he struggles? Absolutely pulled on my heartstrings. I just wanted to crawl into the book and comfort him.
Also, can we talk about the found family vibes? The friends, the comfort, the animals, it all added so much warmth to the story. There are trigger warnings, so definitely check those, but the sensitive topics are handled with a lot of care.
I loved the first book (Embers of You), but this one completely sealed the deal for me. I finished it feeling a little wrecked, very satisfied, and fully invested in this series. It strikes the perfect balance between heart and heat, and I’m already dying to see where this world goes next.
Thank you so much Madi and The Smut Hood PR for this arc opportunity!
January 7, 2026
THIS WAS SO HOT. And so healing. And both of these characters need some serious therapy.. but I enjoyed it so much! 😅 what does that say about me? I don’t know. But it was a lot of fun! FULL RTC
________________________
One thing I love about the Amity series is just how simple, fun, easygoing, and spicy they are. The quaint town of Amity is just so.. cozy feeling. Just gives me lakeside, sunny all the time, everyone knows everyone, simple living type vibes and I love everything about it.
This book was quite a bit heavier than book 1, so make sure to check your trigger warnings if you think there might be something that could harm you here. Both of these characters have been through a lot, are currently struggling, and topics can be heavy. As well as coping mechanisms are sometimes unhealthy.
Bailey and Wes have been neighbours for years. They had one VERY hot night 3 years ago (before they knew they were neighbours) and the sexual tension has been HIGH. IS HIGH. SO HIGH. This book is basically just both of them finally giving in to these feelings after so long, fighting them, f*cking it out of their systems, and then giving in again 🤭
Wes has BDE that he can back up. Bailey pretends nothing can phase her but she’s actually kinda soft under her exterior shell. Wes knows just what she wants, Bailey hates that. Wes is a bit of a jerk, Bailey doesn’t mind. Wes struggles, Bailey is there for him. It was truly one of the best push/pull dynamics I’ve ever read. These two have a severe Dislike to Lovers situation going on, and I was here for every second of it.
I hope both these characters get the therapy and help they so desperately need because YIKES, they were NOT coping well. But I’ve got hope they will figure it all out and stick together through it all.
Bring on book 3! Im SO curious how this one will work out 👀
________________________
One thing I love about the Amity series is just how simple, fun, easygoing, and spicy they are. The quaint town of Amity is just so.. cozy feeling. Just gives me lakeside, sunny all the time, everyone knows everyone, simple living type vibes and I love everything about it.
This book was quite a bit heavier than book 1, so make sure to check your trigger warnings if you think there might be something that could harm you here. Both of these characters have been through a lot, are currently struggling, and topics can be heavy. As well as coping mechanisms are sometimes unhealthy.
Bailey and Wes have been neighbours for years. They had one VERY hot night 3 years ago (before they knew they were neighbours) and the sexual tension has been HIGH. IS HIGH. SO HIGH. This book is basically just both of them finally giving in to these feelings after so long, fighting them, f*cking it out of their systems, and then giving in again 🤭
Wes has BDE that he can back up. Bailey pretends nothing can phase her but she’s actually kinda soft under her exterior shell. Wes knows just what she wants, Bailey hates that. Wes is a bit of a jerk, Bailey doesn’t mind. Wes struggles, Bailey is there for him. It was truly one of the best push/pull dynamics I’ve ever read. These two have a severe Dislike to Lovers situation going on, and I was here for every second of it.
I hope both these characters get the therapy and help they so desperately need because YIKES, they were NOT coping well. But I’ve got hope they will figure it all out and stick together through it all.
Bring on book 3! Im SO curious how this one will work out 👀
January 13, 2026
4⭐️/4🔥
Thank you @homecookedbooks and @simonmaverick for the alc of this book.
Madi Danielle is a new to me author. It’s the second book in the Amity series, but it works perfectly as a standalone since I jumped in without reading the first. There is something so healing about two broken people finding each other, and I loved watching Bailey and Wes navigate their growth together.
After years of running from childhood trauma, Bailey is finally setting roots in Amity when she has a one-night stand with a stranger... who turns out to be her new neighbor. Wes is a retired army pilot and a total loner who is completely obsessed with her. I loved their dynamic, especially how their physical connection reflected what they needed emotionally. Wes thrives on being in control and Bailey finds peace in giving it up, which clearly stems from their pasts and how they need to feel safe.
I do wish we could have had a little more backstory on Bailey’s childhood, but otherwise, I loved watching them help each other open up and heal.
🎧Audiobook Thoughts
Sean Masters and Helena Walters were a good pairing. Sean fit the "loner pilot" vibe perfectly! Helena was a great Bailey, though I didn't love her male voice... but it was still a very enjoyable listen!
🩹 Healing Journey
🏡 Neighbors to Lovers
🎖️ Retired Army Pilot
🧗♀️ Emotional Growth
✨ Small Town
🫂 Two Broken People
Thank you @homecookedbooks and @simonmaverick for the alc of this book.
Madi Danielle is a new to me author. It’s the second book in the Amity series, but it works perfectly as a standalone since I jumped in without reading the first. There is something so healing about two broken people finding each other, and I loved watching Bailey and Wes navigate their growth together.
After years of running from childhood trauma, Bailey is finally setting roots in Amity when she has a one-night stand with a stranger... who turns out to be her new neighbor. Wes is a retired army pilot and a total loner who is completely obsessed with her. I loved their dynamic, especially how their physical connection reflected what they needed emotionally. Wes thrives on being in control and Bailey finds peace in giving it up, which clearly stems from their pasts and how they need to feel safe.
I do wish we could have had a little more backstory on Bailey’s childhood, but otherwise, I loved watching them help each other open up and heal.
🎧Audiobook Thoughts
Sean Masters and Helena Walters were a good pairing. Sean fit the "loner pilot" vibe perfectly! Helena was a great Bailey, though I didn't love her male voice... but it was still a very enjoyable listen!
🩹 Healing Journey
🏡 Neighbors to Lovers
🎖️ Retired Army Pilot
🧗♀️ Emotional Growth
✨ Small Town
🫂 Two Broken People
February 9, 2026
This book had me hooked from the very first page. Bailey and Wes’s story is the perfect blend of unresolved tension, buried trauma, and the kind of chemistry that crackles every time they’re on the page together.
The accidental one-night stand turned hostile neighbors trope? Done so well here. The slow realization that their fire isn’t fueled by hate—but by something deeper and far more dangerous—made every interaction deliciously tense. Their banter is sharp, their attraction undeniable, and the push-and-pull between them kept me turning pages late into the night.
Wes is the kind of broken, broody hero who stays with you. His trauma feels raw and real, and watching him struggle with control, desire, and vulnerability added so much depth to his character. Bailey is strong without being hardened—she’s healing, growing, and refuses to disappear into someone else’s pain, and I loved her for that.
What really stood out was how grounding their connection became. What starts as something casual quickly turns emotional, intimate, and achingly tender in the best way. The spice is chef’s kiss—intense, charged, and perfectly balanced with heartfelt moments that make you feel everything right along with them.
If you love emotionally scarred characters, enemies-to-lovers vibes, forced proximity, and a romance that’s both explosive and healing, this one is an absolute must-read. I devoured it and immediately wanted more.
The accidental one-night stand turned hostile neighbors trope? Done so well here. The slow realization that their fire isn’t fueled by hate—but by something deeper and far more dangerous—made every interaction deliciously tense. Their banter is sharp, their attraction undeniable, and the push-and-pull between them kept me turning pages late into the night.
Wes is the kind of broken, broody hero who stays with you. His trauma feels raw and real, and watching him struggle with control, desire, and vulnerability added so much depth to his character. Bailey is strong without being hardened—she’s healing, growing, and refuses to disappear into someone else’s pain, and I loved her for that.
What really stood out was how grounding their connection became. What starts as something casual quickly turns emotional, intimate, and achingly tender in the best way. The spice is chef’s kiss—intense, charged, and perfectly balanced with heartfelt moments that make you feel everything right along with them.
If you love emotionally scarred characters, enemies-to-lovers vibes, forced proximity, and a romance that’s both explosive and healing, this one is an absolute must-read. I devoured it and immediately wanted more.
January 12, 2026
Scars of You is the second book in the Amity series. This book can be read in order as a standalone. I read this book without reading any of Madi’s previous books.
This book was beautiful. There is something so incredibly healing about two broken people finding each other and healing together. I loved this couple’s emotional growth and how their sexual relationship didn’t prohibit them from advancing their feelings.
Bailey moves to Amity after moving around most of her adult life. Bailey suffered a lot of childhood trauma, that has left her living a pretty lonely and nomadic lifestyle. She finally sets roots and opens a business and a home. She has a one night stand with a stranger and then it turns out, he’s her neighbor.
Wes is a retired army pilot. He is the definition of a loner excepts he has an obsession with his neighbor.
The tension between these two characters just added to their relationship. I loved that together they helped each other open up and start to tackle their issues. I wish we could have had little backstory into Bailey’s childhood, but otherwise I really enjoyed the story.
Thank you Madi Danielle and The Smuthood for the advanced copy.
This book was beautiful. There is something so incredibly healing about two broken people finding each other and healing together. I loved this couple’s emotional growth and how their sexual relationship didn’t prohibit them from advancing their feelings.
Bailey moves to Amity after moving around most of her adult life. Bailey suffered a lot of childhood trauma, that has left her living a pretty lonely and nomadic lifestyle. She finally sets roots and opens a business and a home. She has a one night stand with a stranger and then it turns out, he’s her neighbor.
Wes is a retired army pilot. He is the definition of a loner excepts he has an obsession with his neighbor.
The tension between these two characters just added to their relationship. I loved that together they helped each other open up and start to tackle their issues. I wish we could have had little backstory into Bailey’s childhood, but otherwise I really enjoyed the story.
Thank you Madi Danielle and The Smuthood for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely devoured this book and fell in love with Bailey & Wes! But their story is also full of so many struggles and yes, it did make me cry my eyes out at least once. Their banter is so good from the start and I was eating it up. She is so freaking sassy and I love that energy, especially directed towards Wes. They are exactly what the other needs and seeing them come together had my heart happy.
Audiobook:
Narrated in dual by Helena Walters & Sean Masters and I think they were perfect choices for Bailey & Wes!! I could not stop listening and they brought these characters to life! Would definitely recommend the audio!
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🌻Small town romance
🌻Neighbors
🌻Enemies to lovers
🌻Army veteran
🌻Mental health rep
🌻Grief & trauma
🌻Found family
Thank you to Madi and her team, in addition to Home Cooked Books, for letting me read and listen to an ARC & ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Audiobook:
Narrated in dual by Helena Walters & Sean Masters and I think they were perfect choices for Bailey & Wes!! I could not stop listening and they brought these characters to life! Would definitely recommend the audio!
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🌻Small town romance
🌻Neighbors
🌻Enemies to lovers
🌻Army veteran
🌻Mental health rep
🌻Grief & trauma
🌻Found family
Thank you to Madi and her team, in addition to Home Cooked Books, for letting me read and listen to an ARC & ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
December 18, 2025
Bailey and Wes
I received an ALC copy of this. This is the second book of the series can be read/listened to as a standalone but I would recommend you read/listen to the first one. I'm going to let you know from listening to this I'm a new listener to this series and author and now have a list of books to check out from her because there are characters from other series which I read a review that Bailey appeared in a different series so there are crossovers. Any way I enjoyed listening to Bailey and Wes's story, the narrators did a good job.I found this funny and entertaining from the beginning with them and the sparing and bantering, the friends and their jabs, the chemistry between them explosive, then there is some heartfelt moments as both are dealing with issues from certain points in their pasts and reunions.
I listened to this through BookFunnel courtesy of Home Cooked Books.
I received an ALC copy of this. This is the second book of the series can be read/listened to as a standalone but I would recommend you read/listen to the first one. I'm going to let you know from listening to this I'm a new listener to this series and author and now have a list of books to check out from her because there are characters from other series which I read a review that Bailey appeared in a different series so there are crossovers. Any way I enjoyed listening to Bailey and Wes's story, the narrators did a good job.I found this funny and entertaining from the beginning with them and the sparing and bantering, the friends and their jabs, the chemistry between them explosive, then there is some heartfelt moments as both are dealing with issues from certain points in their pasts and reunions.
I listened to this through BookFunnel courtesy of Home Cooked Books.
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