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Scars of a Rose
𖤓 Found Family 𖤓 Green Flags 𖤓 Slowburn
Crafted to be the perfect doll, Ceila has a sole reason for the Betrothed of the Duke. Her every opinion is curated and her actions crafted to please him, forgetting about the person beneath. A husk of a woman, until something finally snaps. One fateful night, Ceila decides to take a risk and form her escape plan. Admittedly, a very poorly thought-out plan, but one nonetheless. On the run from her adopted father and soon-to-be husband, she finds safety in The Ravens Meal, a strange tavern owned by the seemingly grumpy Vincent.
Forced by his own protective nature (and pressure from the rest of the staff) Vincent offers Ceila a new job and a new life at the tavern. With nowhere else to run to, Ceila accepts and becomes the newest accountant. Experiencing new adventures and relationships with the rowdy staff of the tavern, Ceila finds a home she never realised she needed. A home she fears may not last.
This is a standalone book from the same universe as the Broken Eyes series, with new characters in a completely different country. There may be some crossover with secrets and hints to future Broken Eyes books, but this is its own story.
Spice 2/5 peppers as per romantasy io
Crafted to be the perfect doll, Ceila has a sole reason for the Betrothed of the Duke. Her every opinion is curated and her actions crafted to please him, forgetting about the person beneath. A husk of a woman, until something finally snaps. One fateful night, Ceila decides to take a risk and form her escape plan. Admittedly, a very poorly thought-out plan, but one nonetheless. On the run from her adopted father and soon-to-be husband, she finds safety in The Ravens Meal, a strange tavern owned by the seemingly grumpy Vincent.
Forced by his own protective nature (and pressure from the rest of the staff) Vincent offers Ceila a new job and a new life at the tavern. With nowhere else to run to, Ceila accepts and becomes the newest accountant. Experiencing new adventures and relationships with the rowdy staff of the tavern, Ceila finds a home she never realised she needed. A home she fears may not last.
This is a standalone book from the same universe as the Broken Eyes series, with new characters in a completely different country. There may be some crossover with secrets and hints to future Broken Eyes books, but this is its own story.
Spice 2/5 peppers as per romantasy io
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2026
About the author
Candi Land
3 books11 followersCandi Land is an indie author from Ontario Canada that loves to write Fantasy Romance with dark twists. She especially enjoys making the characters suffer. She lives in an apartment with her partner, cat, and too many plushies. Her dream is to have people love her stories as much as she does.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
February 28, 2026
I really love this book it is not like other books and has a fresh perspective. The characters were well developed. I wanted to read more of the story when it was done but it was wrapped up.it did leave room for another book and I would love to read it. The writing gave great mental images. Very passionate but also closed door for the scenes. Very tasteful and I can even suggest it to my sister in law who does not want all the spice. I hope to read more from Candi Land. I received an advanced copy for free and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
January 30, 2026
Scars of a Rose by Candi Land is a slow-burn romantasy that hits all the right emotional beats. The romance builds gradually, with a light touch of explicit spice (around 2/5), and the FMC is complex, raw, and easy to root for.
This is a standalone story, set in the same universe as the Broken Eyes series, but with new characters in a completely different country. Even though I haven’t read Broken Eyes, this book makes me want to check that series out now!
I’m so grateful to have been accepted as an ARC reader and to read this before its release. As a fellow Ontarian, I love supporting a Canadian indie author, and Candi Land’s storytelling really delivers.
This is a standalone story, set in the same universe as the Broken Eyes series, but with new characters in a completely different country. Even though I haven’t read Broken Eyes, this book makes me want to check that series out now!
I’m so grateful to have been accepted as an ARC reader and to read this before its release. As a fellow Ontarian, I love supporting a Canadian indie author, and Candi Land’s storytelling really delivers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'd like to thank both Candi and BookSirens for trusting me with an ARC of this book, in exchange for an honest review. I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity you all gave me to discover my first five-star read of the year.
“Scars of a Rose” is my first read from Candi, a book that I stumbled upon on TikTok, and thank the Divines (or the algorithm) for it, because I found a new favorite. I was expecting great things since it’s romantasy, and it didn’t disappoint for even a second.
This book is raw and emotional, and it touches very difficult subjects, in ways that don’t soften them. It was a very real read, with flawed characters that didn’t always say or do the best things, making them more down to earth, despite the abundance of magical creatures. No one was perfect, they all had their own demons, and made mistakes, not always saying, or doing what they should, which made me sympathize with each of the characters even more.
Despite the “dark” themes that this book talked about, it was very tender, and soft. The love, whether it was familiar, platonic or romantic, was very palpable throughout the whole story. Friendships were flawed, yet sincere and deep. Relationships were difficult at times amongst the characters, but most things worked out, and nothing ever felt rushed, but rather like a flower that bloomed in time.
This book made me laugh, cry, and feel warm and fuzzy inside. Ceila and Vincent were two of my favorite main characters ever, and I love how much of their inner softness we got to see along the pages. Despite being scared, they overcame their fears, slowly but surely, helping each other all the way, yet respecting the boundaries of the other. I think they had a certain naivety that isn’t found in many books today, an innocence that was refreshing to read about.
Also, Ceila, my darling, I want to pick her up and protect her from any and everything. Her strength of mind was something beautiful to read, even when she felt weak, like a shell of a person, she stayed true to herself, she found a way to cling to who she truly was underneath it all.
The ending, though bittersweet, was perfect. It shows that not everything ends like a fairytale, and it doesn’t need to, for it to be beautiful. There needs to be cracks for the sun to shine through. It is a shame that this book is a standalone, because I’d love to read more of Ceila and Vicent, and the rest of the group. I want to read about more adventures, I want to see them all bloom and find what they long for.
Overall, I had the time of my life reading this book, and look forward to reading more from Candi. This is the perfect read for fans of Serpent & Dove, Six of Crows, and Todas las Hadas del Reino, YA fantasy books that explore group and family dynamics and romance in equal parts. So, if you’ve read those, and are looking for more, I beg you, please, check out this book. You’ll most likely love it as much as I do!
“Scars of a Rose” is my first read from Candi, a book that I stumbled upon on TikTok, and thank the Divines (or the algorithm) for it, because I found a new favorite. I was expecting great things since it’s romantasy, and it didn’t disappoint for even a second.
This book is raw and emotional, and it touches very difficult subjects, in ways that don’t soften them. It was a very real read, with flawed characters that didn’t always say or do the best things, making them more down to earth, despite the abundance of magical creatures. No one was perfect, they all had their own demons, and made mistakes, not always saying, or doing what they should, which made me sympathize with each of the characters even more.
Despite the “dark” themes that this book talked about, it was very tender, and soft. The love, whether it was familiar, platonic or romantic, was very palpable throughout the whole story. Friendships were flawed, yet sincere and deep. Relationships were difficult at times amongst the characters, but most things worked out, and nothing ever felt rushed, but rather like a flower that bloomed in time.
This book made me laugh, cry, and feel warm and fuzzy inside. Ceila and Vincent were two of my favorite main characters ever, and I love how much of their inner softness we got to see along the pages. Despite being scared, they overcame their fears, slowly but surely, helping each other all the way, yet respecting the boundaries of the other. I think they had a certain naivety that isn’t found in many books today, an innocence that was refreshing to read about.
Also, Ceila, my darling, I want to pick her up and protect her from any and everything. Her strength of mind was something beautiful to read, even when she felt weak, like a shell of a person, she stayed true to herself, she found a way to cling to who she truly was underneath it all.
The ending, though bittersweet, was perfect. It shows that not everything ends like a fairytale, and it doesn’t need to, for it to be beautiful. There needs to be cracks for the sun to shine through. It is a shame that this book is a standalone, because I’d love to read more of Ceila and Vicent, and the rest of the group. I want to read about more adventures, I want to see them all bloom and find what they long for.
Overall, I had the time of my life reading this book, and look forward to reading more from Candi. This is the perfect read for fans of Serpent & Dove, Six of Crows, and Todas las Hadas del Reino, YA fantasy books that explore group and family dynamics and romance in equal parts. So, if you’ve read those, and are looking for more, I beg you, please, check out this book. You’ll most likely love it as much as I do!
Review of advance copy
Scars of a Rose had good intentions, but the execution didn’t quite land for me.
There were parts I genuinely enjoyed. The relationships were endearing, and the underlying message about healing and self-worth came through. Those little nuggets of warmth are what kept me reading to the end — and finishing a book I’m not fully connecting with is not something I always do, so that says something.
That said, the writing felt juvenile at times. There were frequent spelling and grammar errors, and moments where pronouns and perspectives shifted in confusing ways. It often leaned heavily into telling rather than showing, which made it hard to feel immersed in the scenes. Instead of being pulled into the moment, I felt like I was being talked through it.
Some character reactions felt strange or underdeveloped, which made certain emotional beats miss. The villain, Cyrus, had glimpses of threat, but ultimately came across more like a hurt boy than a true antagonist, which lowered the tension. The story also emphasized how unsafe the main character was, while the pacing and tone remained oddly calm, creating a disconnect.
I do think there’s real potential here. With stronger structural edits, deeper scene-building, and more refined prose, this could be a compelling story. Sometimes the idea is there, but the craft hasn’t fully caught up yet. I can see the vision — I just wanted more depth and polish in the execution.
Overall, an okay read with promise, but not one that fully worked for me.
2 stars ⭐️⭐️ ~ I received a free eARC from BookSirens for my honest opinion.
There were parts I genuinely enjoyed. The relationships were endearing, and the underlying message about healing and self-worth came through. Those little nuggets of warmth are what kept me reading to the end — and finishing a book I’m not fully connecting with is not something I always do, so that says something.
That said, the writing felt juvenile at times. There were frequent spelling and grammar errors, and moments where pronouns and perspectives shifted in confusing ways. It often leaned heavily into telling rather than showing, which made it hard to feel immersed in the scenes. Instead of being pulled into the moment, I felt like I was being talked through it.
Some character reactions felt strange or underdeveloped, which made certain emotional beats miss. The villain, Cyrus, had glimpses of threat, but ultimately came across more like a hurt boy than a true antagonist, which lowered the tension. The story also emphasized how unsafe the main character was, while the pacing and tone remained oddly calm, creating a disconnect.
I do think there’s real potential here. With stronger structural edits, deeper scene-building, and more refined prose, this could be a compelling story. Sometimes the idea is there, but the craft hasn’t fully caught up yet. I can see the vision — I just wanted more depth and polish in the execution.
Overall, an okay read with promise, but not one that fully worked for me.
2 stars ⭐️⭐️ ~ I received a free eARC from BookSirens for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
Overall I enjoyed this story. The found family elements were really well done and the plot kept me interested. Vincent was a sweetheart and it was interesting watching Ceila grow into herself. Unfortunately, there were some things I did not enjoy. When Ceila (who was frequently Celia) had the point of view, it would randomly switch from first person to third person which was weird and I didn't like that she went from Ceila to "the woman" when that happened. There were also some odd word choices throughout, typos, some tense/grammar issues. The entire story definitely could have used another editing pass. On a more personal take away, I found Genevieve somewhat annoying. I'm fully aware this is a me thing - her character seems to be a standard in fantasy novels and I usually find that character annoying. I also found the ending vaguely unsatisfying. I won't say why because it would spoil the story, but it left me debating dropping my rating by a star. In the end though, I did like the story overall so I'm leaving this at 4 stars. If you're looking for something where the female lead is escaping a very toxic situation to end up with a found family and someone that actually cares about her happiness, this is definitely worth checking out.
***I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.***
***I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.***
Review of advance copy
I first came across this book on Tiktok, it sounded interesting and next I knew it fell into my hands. Thanks Booksirens for this opportunity.
The start dragged a little for me, though it was refreshing to see the world through Ceila's eyes. This was my first book by Candi Land so I could use the little extra introduction into the way the world works.
The magic system was interesting and the world building seems nice, maybe I would understand more if I had read her other books set in the same world.
The characters are definitely lovable and certainly not perfect, but some of the scènes in the book seem unfinished, or abrupt. And I would have liked to see some more dept.
I am not always a fan of multiple view points and in this book they shift kind of confusingly.
Maybe because I had other ideas when I read the blurb, I expected something darker, with higher stakes, but the story reads more wholesome than that. Ceila's discovery of herself, her worth, the world around her and people in it was interesting enough to keep me reading.
I received this book for free through Booksirens for my honest opinion.
The start dragged a little for me, though it was refreshing to see the world through Ceila's eyes. This was my first book by Candi Land so I could use the little extra introduction into the way the world works.
The magic system was interesting and the world building seems nice, maybe I would understand more if I had read her other books set in the same world.
The characters are definitely lovable and certainly not perfect, but some of the scènes in the book seem unfinished, or abrupt. And I would have liked to see some more dept.
I am not always a fan of multiple view points and in this book they shift kind of confusingly.
Maybe because I had other ideas when I read the blurb, I expected something darker, with higher stakes, but the story reads more wholesome than that. Ceila's discovery of herself, her worth, the world around her and people in it was interesting enough to keep me reading.
I received this book for free through Booksirens for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
Scars of a Rose is a tender, emotionally driven story about healing, love, and learning to let yourself bloom again after pain. Candi Land writes with a soft, compassionate touch, creating characters who feel fragile yet strong in the quietest, most human ways. This is the kind of book that wraps around you gently, asking you to slow down and really feel alongside the characters.
What stood out most was the emotional sincerity. The scars—both visible and hidden—are treated with care and respect, and the romance grows in a way that feels earned rather than rushed. There’s a sweetness to the connection that makes even the quieter moments feel meaningful, and the themes of self-worth and second chances are handled with warmth and grace.
While there were moments where I wished certain scenes had gone a little deeper or lingered longer, the overall experience was heartfelt and comforting. Scars of a Rose is a lovely read for anyone who enjoys soft romance, emotional growth, and stories that remind you that even damaged things can still be beautiful.
What stood out most was the emotional sincerity. The scars—both visible and hidden—are treated with care and respect, and the romance grows in a way that feels earned rather than rushed. There’s a sweetness to the connection that makes even the quieter moments feel meaningful, and the themes of self-worth and second chances are handled with warmth and grace.
While there were moments where I wished certain scenes had gone a little deeper or lingered longer, the overall experience was heartfelt and comforting. Scars of a Rose is a lovely read for anyone who enjoys soft romance, emotional growth, and stories that remind you that even damaged things can still be beautiful.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, this is a five-star storyline for me. I’m not usually a cozy fantasy reader, but this book absolutely converted me. I loved it. I loved the characters, the simple yet effective world of witches and humans, the healing journey, and the way different trauma responses were handled. I also loved the romance, and the fade-to-black worked perfectly for this story.
Where I struggled a little was with the omniscient prose. At times it felt closer to a tight third-person POV, but then there would be sudden omniscient moments that pulled me out—like switching from the FMC’s name to “the woman” or “the one with pink hair.” As a writer, that was confusing and occasionally felt like head-hopping.
That said, I loved the prose overall, and I loved the story so much that this was still an easy five stars for me. I highly recommend this read—so much so that I’m buying it in hardback. PLEASE just read this!!
Where I struggled a little was with the omniscient prose. At times it felt closer to a tight third-person POV, but then there would be sudden omniscient moments that pulled me out—like switching from the FMC’s name to “the woman” or “the one with pink hair.” As a writer, that was confusing and occasionally felt like head-hopping.
That said, I loved the prose overall, and I loved the story so much that this was still an easy five stars for me. I highly recommend this read—so much so that I’m buying it in hardback. PLEASE just read this!!
Review of advance copy
This is the story of Vincent, a tavern owner, and Ceila, an orphan raised to be a duke’s wife. When she gets the chance to runaway, Ceila takes it. She ends up finding help at a tavern owned by Vincent where, with help from the assorted misfits working there, she hopes to start a new life……….
While I enjoyed the plot and there were some great characters too, I really struggled with the writing style. Maybe it’s just me, but I found the poor grammar, odd choice of words and numerous use of the wrong tense really grated on me. There were so many simple mistakes it was distracting from the story, which is a shame as the plot was a good one, but I would not read more by this author.
Some examples:
She filled the soup into the spoon.
Vincent stated before he sipping his coffee.
Red itched against her flesh.
A clearing came through in her vision as she blinked a few times.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I enjoyed the plot and there were some great characters too, I really struggled with the writing style. Maybe it’s just me, but I found the poor grammar, odd choice of words and numerous use of the wrong tense really grated on me. There were so many simple mistakes it was distracting from the story, which is a shame as the plot was a good one, but I would not read more by this author.
Some examples:
She filled the soup into the spoon.
Vincent stated before he sipping his coffee.
Red itched against her flesh.
A clearing came through in her vision as she blinked a few times.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is deeply character-driven, emotional, and incredibly powerful—especially in its portrayal of Cecilia (Lady Giselle). Watching her evolve from a woman stripped of agency into someone who reclaims her name, her power, and her autonomy is immensely satisfying. Her trauma is treated with weight and care, and her growth feels earned, symbolic, and triumphant. The found-family dynamic surrounding her adds warmth and depth, making her journey feel supported rather than solitary.
Vincent is a standout—moody, flawed, and unexpectedly tender. His relationship with Cecilia is refreshingly grounded in real communication, emotional honesty, and growth rather than surface-level romance. The supporting cast is rich and complex, the stakes feel real, and the consequences matter. Dark, cathartic, and empowering, this story left me heartbroken, hopeful, and eager for more.
Vincent is a standout—moody, flawed, and unexpectedly tender. His relationship with Cecilia is refreshingly grounded in real communication, emotional honesty, and growth rather than surface-level romance. The supporting cast is rich and complex, the stakes feel real, and the consequences matter. Dark, cathartic, and empowering, this story left me heartbroken, hopeful, and eager for more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2026
loved it !! love Vincent and Ceila... and the staff at the tavern... this is their story... a well paced rom/drama... Ceila was an orphan and raised to be the wife of a duke... molded into it !!! she doesn't want that life, she wants to be free.. so, she escapes and is lucky that she ends up at the tavern that is owned by Vincent... she has grown up sheltered and knows nothing of the world... and Vincent and his bunch of misfits take her in ... she hopes to start a new life with them... it's a good story... full of hope and friendship but, also, of scars that are seen and not seen... !.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This story starts with a broken young girl and what she thought was a great plan to escape her current reality, even though it was rushed and not very thought out. She was very sheltered and didn't know anything. She had a good character growth. Everyone around her loves her and her naivety and curiosity. It was easy to read, follow and understand. I recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Not all love stories are soft… some are written in scars. Some roses bloom through blood and thorns.
Scars of a Rose is darkly beautiful—woven with pain, resilience, and a love that refuses to stay buried. The slow-burn romance had me hooked, each moment building with tension and longing. This story doesn’t just ache… it lingers
Scars of a Rose is darkly beautiful—woven with pain, resilience, and a love that refuses to stay buried. The slow-burn romance had me hooked, each moment building with tension and longing. This story doesn’t just ache… it lingers
March 10, 2026
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Scars of a Rose by Candi Land ✨🌹
If you love stories that weave together rich world-building, slow-burning romance, and themes of found family, this book is a must-read! Set in a captivating fantasy universe with a unique magic system involving hairs, the story follows Ceila, a runaway noble seeking freedom from her gilded cage. Her journey leads her to the lively and mysterious Ravens Meal tavern, owned by the grumpy yet caring Vincent.
What makes this story stand out is its focus on character growth—Ceila’s transformation from a curated doll of a woman to someone discovering her true self is truly inspiring. The relationships she builds with the diverse and lively tavern staff add warmth and depth, creating a genuine sense of family. The narrative is slow-burning but rewarding, with plenty of moments that will keep you turning pages.
The ending offers a bittersweet closure with an open door for future adventures, leaving you satisfied yet eager for more. Perfect for readers who enjoy immersive worlds, complex characters, and subtle hints of mystery. While it’s a standalone, it also hints at a larger universe and secrets yet to be uncovered.
A beautifully crafted story that balances tenderness, tension, and fantasy magic—highly recommended for those looking to get lost in a new world! 🌟
Scars of a Rose by Candi Land ✨🌹
If you love stories that weave together rich world-building, slow-burning romance, and themes of found family, this book is a must-read! Set in a captivating fantasy universe with a unique magic system involving hairs, the story follows Ceila, a runaway noble seeking freedom from her gilded cage. Her journey leads her to the lively and mysterious Ravens Meal tavern, owned by the grumpy yet caring Vincent.
What makes this story stand out is its focus on character growth—Ceila’s transformation from a curated doll of a woman to someone discovering her true self is truly inspiring. The relationships she builds with the diverse and lively tavern staff add warmth and depth, creating a genuine sense of family. The narrative is slow-burning but rewarding, with plenty of moments that will keep you turning pages.
The ending offers a bittersweet closure with an open door for future adventures, leaving you satisfied yet eager for more. Perfect for readers who enjoy immersive worlds, complex characters, and subtle hints of mystery. While it’s a standalone, it also hints at a larger universe and secrets yet to be uncovered.
A beautifully crafted story that balances tenderness, tension, and fantasy magic—highly recommended for those looking to get lost in a new world! 🌟
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews