Scars and Secrets: A Haunted Past

by Talle Fey

Two worlds collide when Caden and Madeline fall in love.

Caden, the son of the Menelukos pack’s Alpha

Battle has been part of Caden’s life since the day he was born. He understands the necessity of his upbringing, but a lot has changed… he has changed. Caden struggles as his old scars won't leave him alone. A devastating incident constantly haunts him. Torn between the worlds of humans and lycanthropes, he has to choose his duty to his pack or his love for his soulmate.

Madeline, the human soulmate desperate for love

Madeline finally has her life in order, but she’s unaware of the creatures walking beside her or the danger they bring. When the secret comes to light, her world is upended, her life threatened, and Madeline needs to navigate a world she doesn't know.


When old enemies return, and war is brewing, their lives are turned upside down. They fight to survive while secrets spill and danger lurks around every corner.



Scars and Secrets is a wolf shifter romance.

413 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 23, 2026

About the author

Talle Fey is an autistic writer and professional daydreamer who likes to dissociate from the world by immersing herself in stories. She writes traumatised characters falling in love with enough fantasy elements to add just that little bit of extra magic to the story.

Sign up for her newsletter to receive updates about new releases and bonus content:
https://talle-fey.kit.com/a708d2dcac

Reviews

[Daisyree IJben · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review

I had a hard time starting this book. It starts in the middle of a scene and I don't know why we are there or what is going on.
I was going to dnf it.

But I got a copy to review and not to stop reading so I kept going.
And I'm I did. Once the story gets going you really start to understand what's going on.
I really loved how Maddie and Caden stayed together while life kept throwing curveballs, how they complete eachother.

Fated mates
Trauma's
Politics

In the end it was a good book.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! Overall good plot, didn't expect at least two of the plot twists, so that's a win for me. The first one was done in an interesting way, the second was highly out of character which made it all the better.

[Tarah Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

an amazing fresh take on the werewolf trope; an absolute must read!!!

[Jyoti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scars and Secrets : A Haunted Past by Talle Fey is a Paranormal Shifter Romance.
I am huge fan of shifter romances and the story hooked me from the first page ! I especially loved that while the story avoided a frustrating cliffhanger, it did a fantastic job of laying the groundwork for the next book. I’m so excited to see where the journey goes next.

Estranged from his pack and living as a lone wolf on campus, Caden thought he’d left his Alpha legacy behind. Then he met Madeline. She’s human, she’s his fated mate, and she’s the best thing that ever happened to him. There’s just one problem: Madeline is completely unaware of the paranormal world Caden belongs to—or the wolf hiding just beneath his surface.

The peace of their new life is shattered when Shifter politics catch up to them. With the lethal Fullmoon pack threatening Madeline’s life, Caden is forced to seek protection from the very pack he turned his back on. As the enemy closes in, Caden must finally strip away the lies and show Madeline his true self and his wolf—praying that their bond is strong enough to survive the terrifying reality of his world

What I liked about this book:
Most shifter romances I’ve read follow the same path: fated mates meet, sparks fly, and they end up together. This book flips the script. By starting the story with Caden and Madeline already in a relationship—while she's still in the dark about his identity—the stakes feel so much higher. The real heart of the story isn't the 'meet-cute,' but the question of whether their bond can survive the weight of his secret and the reality of his world.
The plot was unique and the story pace kept me engaged till the end. I would definitely recommend this book as a must read.

In the category of Shifter romance I would rate this as a 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes:
Shifter romance
Fated mates
Dark Secret/Past

I received this book from the author as an ARC for an honest review.

[Daphne Vierstra · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I’d started by reading the last few pages of the book, or if I had done some research before applying for this ARC, I would’ve know that Talle Fey “writes traumatised characters falling in love with enough fantasy elements to add just that little bit of extra magic to the story.” This is a very accurate description and would’ve told me this book wasn’t for me. The 3 stars is kinda generous and I won’t be reading the next book in this series. Something I usually would do with a 3 star read.

The first few chapters it took me some getting used to the third person dual POV. It didn’t add much story wise, and felt repetitive because a lot of the things that happened were lived through from both POV’s.

To be honest, I don’t think this should’ve been a fantasy/romantasy book. You could swap the werewolves with a bunch of really athletic mobsters at anytime and it wouldn’t have changed a thing. So this book is definitely better suited for the romance lovers out there. There’s also a lot of focus on all the cozy elements, more so than on the world building and fantasy part.

The relationship between Caden and Maddie triggers my gag reflex, they’re just so sweet and understanding and attuned to each other’s needs… it’s a bit much. And the constant reminders about a relationship being hard work and such made me feel like I was reading a couples counselling book.

The way the characters are affected by their trauma doesn’t really match any of my personal experiences with traumatised people, so that wasn’t convincing to me either.

I guess we can conclude this one wasn’t for me 😅 it wasn’t bad writing, but it wasn’t great writing either, and it feels like a lot of things just happen kinda randomly. I’m never fond of urban nor academic settings so don’t let me scare you off if that is something you like. It’s a very cute story and a quick read ☺️

[Annabelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scars and Secrets by Talle Fey balances emotional tension with real external danger, and that combination makes Maddie and Caden’s connection even more compelling. They’re not just figuring out their relationship—they’re doing it while a rival pack is actively trying to take them out. That pressure adds weight to every choice they make and keeps the story moving at a sharp pace.

Maddie’s reaction to discovering the truth about Caden feels grounded. She’s shocked, overwhelmed, and trying to make sense of a world she never expected to be part of. But even in the middle of all that uncertainty—and with danger closing in—she never considers walking away from him. She works through the fear because she knows, instinctively, that she’s not leaving his side.

Caden is one of the more interesting MMCs I’ve read in a while. He’s powerful, but he’s also carrying deep trauma and a constant fear that he doesn’t deserve his mate. That insecurity drives some questionable decisions, especially with the threat from the rival pack hanging over them, but it all fits who he is. Watching him try to protect Maddie while learning to trust her commitment adds a lot of depth. Their slow shift toward real communication feels earned.

The pacing is quick, but it works. The danger, the emotional stakes, and the evolving bond between them all move together in a way that keeps the story tight and engaging without feeling rushed.

If you like paranormal romance with real external conflict, flawed but loyal characters, and a relationship that grows under pressure, this one hits the mark.

[Marlo · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Y’all… I was NOT prepared for this one 👀🐺
Scars and Secrets: A Haunted Past had me side-eyeing everyone from page one. Like… why are there WOLF SIGHTINGS at a college?? 🚩
Caden and Maddie are that couple—the “since first sight, it’s always been you” type. Maddie is completely gone for him… but sir?? Why are you disappearing all the time?? “Family obligations” but coming back covered in scars?? Be serious.
And then… THE NIGHT 👀
Maddie gets straight up hunted (yes, hunted 😭) and who shows up??
Caden. Half. Naked.
EXCUSE ME??
At that point I was like girl, you better DEMAND answers because what is going ON.
This book gave: ✨ mystery that actually keeps you guessing
✨ ride-or-die love
✨ family drama
✨ friendships that matter
✨ and just enough chaos to keep you flipping pages.
It’s not a brutal cliffhanger, BUT don’t get comfortable—there’s definitely more coming and I NEED answers like yesterday.
If you like: 🐺 protective, secretive MMC
💔 “I have a past I can’t tell you” vibes
🔥 tension + devotion
👀 supernatural twists creeping in
…add this to your TBR immediately.
Because Caden??
You got some explaining to do, sir.

[Sammi Loves Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Scars and secrets by Talle Fey

Maddie life is simple. She's studying Englosh and Folklore at University, she's got some great friends and a cinnamon roll boyfriend, Caden. After an incident on campus blows Maddies world wide open, will Maddie be able to cope with what she has learnt, and how will this affect her relationship with Caden?


This was a cozy and comfortable read. I liked the family dynamics and the contrasts. I found it quite fast moving; there were lots of great moments but felt a little rushed through them. The POV were written in 3rs pesron which was different. The epilogue has a great set up for a next in series. If you like sweet romance and wolf Shifters with a darker backdrop this is for you.

Tropes
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Shifter Romance
- Fated mates
- Morally grey MMC

Highlights
- Family dynamics were really interesting
- Great mental health / trauma representation

Thoughts
- I found it quite fast moving; there were lots of great moments but felt a little rushed through them.

Overall 3/5

#newreleases #booksta #shifterromance

[Emily Knaus · Rating 3 out of 5]

Scars and Secrets had all the ingredients I usually fall for: an alpha‑heir wolf shifter, a shy, sweet heroine, buried truths, and a web of betrayals ready to blow everything up. Caden and Maddie’s setup hooked me immediately. He’s the future leader of his pack, carrying secrets big enough to fracture them, and she’s walking into a world she never asked for.

But I never fully clicked with either of them. Their choices felt impulsive, dramatic, and sometimes frustrating and I had to keep reminding myself these characters are young, still figuring out who they are, which explains a lot of the immaturity in their reactions. The emotional moments were there, but they didn’t always land for me.

That said, the suspense and the unraveling of the truth kept me turning pages. Watching Caden and Maddie navigate the fallout of what he kept from her had real potential, and the worldbuilding around the pack was intriguing.

A solid premise with moments I enjoyed, even if I didn’t fully resonate with the characters. If you like messy young love tangled up with supernatural politics, this is the book for you!
Can’t wait to see what happens next.

Thank you to Talle Fey for the early copy!

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always enjoy reading a shifter romance, which is what drew me to this book. This was a 3.5-4 read for me, based on my personal taste. I do think those who lean more towards young adult or like reading younger characters (college aged) would enjoy and relate to this book more.

This story had a lot of secrets and moving parts, which kept it interesting to read. The Caden and Madeline were the epitome of a young couple in love. Caden definitely had some past trauma in his early years that affected who he was as a young adult. I do think this book is relatable for younger adults, having to figure what they want to do and who they want to be with, compared to what their families want or what is expected of them.

I did really like that Caden was protective and Madeline, and Madeline didn't run when things got hard between them. She was a little forgiving in some ways, but again they were young adults.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book.

[Kalleigh Royn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the Lycanthropic world-building and Fey's unique take on the werewolf genre. I really appreciated the author tackling PTSD and the lasting impact of trauma through Caden (and Maddie, too). It’s a theme you don’t always see explored deeply in paranormal romance.

The story relies very heavily on the interiority of Caden and Maddie. While Fey was incredibly thorough in exploring their feelings and inner worlds, I personally prefer a more balanced approach with more external action and dialogue to drive the plot forward.

I did struggle with Maddie’s perspective on what constitutes a “healthy relationship.” Despite the soulmate bond, I didn’t quite agree with her assessment of their dynamic.

Overall, a solid read. I would recommend Scars and Secrets for any reader who loves deep character development and werewolf lore.

[Jaqueline Doldersum · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book started of easy. Two young people in college, Caden and Madeline. Who are in love. Not a care in the world. Until Maddie goes to a party at her friends house. Without even knowing. Her live is going to change. Will it be in a good way?
Caden is Maddie's boyfriend. Who is very protective of her. In the beginning, it felt a little bit like, controle issue. Bad vibes of him.
But then the story gets a plot twist.
Can she truts him? What are they, for each other.
Just when you think. I got it all figured out. The book was good. I got a little bit of the tv series Bitten (season one). In a good way.
By accident, she founds out what Caden is. And there the story really begins.

[Jennifer Amaral · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Talle Fey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Scars and Secrets is an emotional story that explores the weight of past experiences and the challenges of learning to trust again. The narrative centers on healing, vulnerability, and the complicated emotions that come with confronting hidden truths.

What I enjoyed most was the depth of the characters and the way their personal struggles shape the story. Their vulnerabilities make their journey feel authentic and help create an emotional connection with the reader.

As the story progresses, the secrets surrounding the characters begin to surface, adding tension and curiosity about how everything will unfold. These revelations help keep the story engaging from beginning to end.

For me, this lands at 4 ⭐ because the story was heartfelt and engaging, though there were a few moments where I would have liked a little more development.

This is a 4 ⭐ for me because:

• the emotional themes add depth to the story
• the characters feel layered and relatable
• the unfolding secrets keep the narrative interesting
• the pacing keeps the story moving smoothly

Emotional. Reflective. Engaging.

Read this book if you like:

• emotional romance
• stories about healing and trust
• character-driven narratives
• relationship-focused storytelling

[Dawn Spink · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an ARC read for me and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
I really enjoyed this book. There was continuous action with twist and turns to keep you invested in the story. Caden and Maddie’s story is sweet, riddled with fear, unhappy pasts, and insecurities, yet pretty strong in each other, time and time again. I’m interested to see where their story along with the pack’s story goes next.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am very appreciative of Talle Fey and their team for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of Scars and Secrets!

This was such a fun, fast-paced read! I loved the dual POV, and the plot was pretty entertaining. Caden’s pack and family dynamics were so interesting to read about—the epilogue set up an intriguing scene for the next book!

[Hannah M Burrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky to be given the chance to review Scars & Secrets: A Haunted Past, of my own accord, through being offered an eARC.

This was a fantastic lycanthrope/werewolf romance.
Maddie and Caden had such a sweet connection.
The story had a great pace, great characters, and a good mix of romance and drama.
I can’t wait to see where this series goes.

[Hila Jonker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun read, and I am really grateful I was chosen to be an ARC reader.

While this is a Shifter Romance, the softness and predictability of it made it a very comfortable read. Strong brave MMC with a dark past, soft smart FMC needing to find her inner strength, love abound, and chaos ensues.

If you are looking to stay in the darker fiction but need something that will stroke your imagination softly and wrap your brain up in a fuzzy blanket, this is it.

[Jennifer Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

New taken on werewolf shifter book. Well developed plot that was easy to read and follow. I loved that the main characters grow and process their past together and support each other. The ending has me ready for the next book.

[Carien · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable Urban Romantasy.
I had some problems warming up to Caden at first, but as I really liked Maddie I decided to keep reading and I'm glad I did.

Recommended to everyone who likes Urban Fantasy, werewolves, and fated mates.

[Shandie McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received from Author. This is a werewolf shifters story and I really enjoyed this take on it. This is a story that will stay with me. There are lots of heavy subject matter and that should be considered before reading.

[Maria Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars
I absolutely loved this book! Caden and Madeline I just loved their story! The plot twists and the emotions this book made me feel. An excellent read I highly recommend reading this book! I received this book as an ARC read and I’m so glad I did! These are my honest views and opinions.

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great story. I loved Caden and Maddie. The twists and turns kept things interesting. The dilemma Caden had really felt forefront in this story. Him having to chide the pack or her…wasn’t right. I’m glad the right decision was made. So glad I got to be a part of this ARC team.

[ImSuddenlySue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Caden's past is heartbreaking, and angering.
Maddie's past is lonely and sad.
Together they make each other better.
He is a Lycanthrope.
She is a human.
Their worlds collide and land them shattered.

[Sandy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is only this author's second book but she writes like a pro. The characters and their story are so well written. I'm very excited to read the next book. I want more of Caden and Maddie.