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Silo Bay #1
The Scars of Yesterday
She walked away from LA fame and a fiancé who nearly destroyed her.
After years in California building a career on a hit reality TV show, Wren Drummond returns to her hometown of Silo Bay—the place she once swore she’d never return. Craving stability after a life that nearly broke her, she hopes being home might help her finally heal.
What she doesn’t expect is to run straight into the boy from her childhood, the one she once loved.
Jett Riggsby left the girl he loved to join the military, determined to outrun his reckless past. Now home after years of deployments, he’s trying to rebuild his life while running his family’s cattle farm.
When fate throws them back together, the pull between them proves impossible to ignore. Beneath old wounds and unspoken truths lies a love neither of them ever truly left behind.
Loving him once broke her heart.
Loving him again might be the only way to heal it.
What to expect in The Scars of Small TownSecond ChanceRomantic SuspenseReality StarMilitary/FarmerChildhood Friends to Enemies to LoversMental Health Rep
After years in California building a career on a hit reality TV show, Wren Drummond returns to her hometown of Silo Bay—the place she once swore she’d never return. Craving stability after a life that nearly broke her, she hopes being home might help her finally heal.
What she doesn’t expect is to run straight into the boy from her childhood, the one she once loved.
Jett Riggsby left the girl he loved to join the military, determined to outrun his reckless past. Now home after years of deployments, he’s trying to rebuild his life while running his family’s cattle farm.
When fate throws them back together, the pull between them proves impossible to ignore. Beneath old wounds and unspoken truths lies a love neither of them ever truly left behind.
Loving him once broke her heart.
Loving him again might be the only way to heal it.
What to expect in The Scars of Small TownSecond ChanceRomantic SuspenseReality StarMilitary/FarmerChildhood Friends to Enemies to LoversMental Health Rep
494 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2026
About the author
Alexis Buxton
9 books133 followersAlexis Buxton is an avid reader turned author. A lover of all things love, Alexis enjoys reading all varieties of romance novels – the steamier, the better. Writing has always been a passion of hers and with the encouragement of friends and family, Alexis decided it was time to follow a childhood dream. She enjoys writing romance novels with damaged characters who need a little extra love and leave you feeling all the feels.
Alexis currently resides in a small-town in Ohio with her husband and two small kiddos.
As an avid sports fan, when she doesn’t have a book in her hand, you can find Alexis watching sports. She prides herself on being a Cleveland Browns fan, even on the hardest days (or years). She also enjoys going on camping adventures with her family, visiting breweries to try new craft beers, attending races at her local dirt track, and supporting local businesses and restaurants.
Alexis runs on coffee, craft beers, and chaos, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.
Alexis currently resides in a small-town in Ohio with her husband and two small kiddos.
As an avid sports fan, when she doesn’t have a book in her hand, you can find Alexis watching sports. She prides herself on being a Cleveland Browns fan, even on the hardest days (or years). She also enjoys going on camping adventures with her family, visiting breweries to try new craft beers, attending races at her local dirt track, and supporting local businesses and restaurants.
Alexis runs on coffee, craft beers, and chaos, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
June 24, 2026
5🌟, 3🌶️
This book was an absolute emotional rollercoaster that I never wanted to end.
Watching Jett and Wren navigate their way back to each other after ten years of heartbreak and misunderstandings was so intense. They started as childhood best friends before life tore them apart, and seeing them fight to reconcile their pasts while navigating their undeniable chemistry was both agonizing and beautiful.
The author does an incredible job of balancing the heavy, raw themes of trauma and grief with a slow-burn, sizzling romance. I felt so deeply connected to both characters; their personal growth and the way they leaned on each other to heal felt incredibly authentic. It was the perfect blend of small-town charm, high-stakes suspense, and the kind of deep, consuming love that stays with you long after the final page.
I am already itching to get my hands on the next book because I am officially obsessed with this world and these people. This is the kind of story that demands your full attention, makes you cry, and leaves you feeling completely overwhelmed in the best possible way.
Do yourself a favor and grab a copy immediately, just make sure your schedule is clear because you won't be able to put it down.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Alexis Buxton and The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This book was an absolute emotional rollercoaster that I never wanted to end.
Watching Jett and Wren navigate their way back to each other after ten years of heartbreak and misunderstandings was so intense. They started as childhood best friends before life tore them apart, and seeing them fight to reconcile their pasts while navigating their undeniable chemistry was both agonizing and beautiful.
The author does an incredible job of balancing the heavy, raw themes of trauma and grief with a slow-burn, sizzling romance. I felt so deeply connected to both characters; their personal growth and the way they leaned on each other to heal felt incredibly authentic. It was the perfect blend of small-town charm, high-stakes suspense, and the kind of deep, consuming love that stays with you long after the final page.
I am already itching to get my hands on the next book because I am officially obsessed with this world and these people. This is the kind of story that demands your full attention, makes you cry, and leaves you feeling completely overwhelmed in the best possible way.
Do yourself a favor and grab a copy immediately, just make sure your schedule is clear because you won't be able to put it down.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Alexis Buxton and The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
June 22, 2026
4.5 stars.
"The Scars of Yesterday" by Alexis Buxton is a dual POV small-town second-chance romance with a touch of suspense thrown in. This story is about Jett (MMC), a military man and farmer, and Wren (FMC), a former reality TV star back in her small hometown of Silo Bay. The two of them were childhood best friends-turned-high school sweethearts, ready to start their lives together after graduation, when Jett broke Wren's heart by joining the military without telling her, leaving her alone without any answers as to why he ditched her. Jett has spent the last decade trying to become a man worthy of Wren's love and affection, even after everything he put her through. He has only ever had eyes for her. After nursing a broken heart and craving stability anywhere but Silo Bay, Wren moved to Los Angeles, became a reality TV star, got a fiancé, and learned to hide the hurt and abuse plaguing her. Now, they are both back in their hometown, in each other's orbit once again, and cannot seem to stop being near one another. I was wholly invested in Wren and Jett's story from the very first chapter. I got totally immersed in this tale! It's more than just a second-chance romance. It's also a story about forgiveness and acceptance, grief and heartbreak, survival and endurance despite the odds. Watching these two former lovers learn to heal themselves, and in the process, each other, piece by broken piece, was a joy. I found this book to be the perfect length. Every piece of this story's puzzle felt like it clicked into place perfectly. I loved Buxton's use of a dual timeline to tell about what happened between Wren and Jett when they were younger. This book will take you on quite an emotional journey, with a little suspense and spice thrown in for good measure. I loved this one and found it to be quite beautiful and touching!
Thank you to Alexis Buxton and The Smuthood for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"The Scars of Yesterday" by Alexis Buxton is a dual POV small-town second-chance romance with a touch of suspense thrown in. This story is about Jett (MMC), a military man and farmer, and Wren (FMC), a former reality TV star back in her small hometown of Silo Bay. The two of them were childhood best friends-turned-high school sweethearts, ready to start their lives together after graduation, when Jett broke Wren's heart by joining the military without telling her, leaving her alone without any answers as to why he ditched her. Jett has spent the last decade trying to become a man worthy of Wren's love and affection, even after everything he put her through. He has only ever had eyes for her. After nursing a broken heart and craving stability anywhere but Silo Bay, Wren moved to Los Angeles, became a reality TV star, got a fiancé, and learned to hide the hurt and abuse plaguing her. Now, they are both back in their hometown, in each other's orbit once again, and cannot seem to stop being near one another. I was wholly invested in Wren and Jett's story from the very first chapter. I got totally immersed in this tale! It's more than just a second-chance romance. It's also a story about forgiveness and acceptance, grief and heartbreak, survival and endurance despite the odds. Watching these two former lovers learn to heal themselves, and in the process, each other, piece by broken piece, was a joy. I found this book to be the perfect length. Every piece of this story's puzzle felt like it clicked into place perfectly. I loved Buxton's use of a dual timeline to tell about what happened between Wren and Jett when they were younger. This book will take you on quite an emotional journey, with a little suspense and spice thrown in for good measure. I loved this one and found it to be quite beautiful and touching!
Thank you to Alexis Buxton and The Smuthood for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
June 18, 2026
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster!
This is a dual POV between Wren and Jett. They were childhood besties turned to lovers and when they were supposed to move off and start their life together one stupid night changes everything. When is left feeling abandoned and she moves off where life takes her to LA where she finds a nightmare. After 10 years she's back home to start fresh. Unfortunately, she comes face to face with Jett. Both feeling flayed but yet can't deny their spark is still blazing.
Throughout this story Jett and Wren overcome their past. The feelings are deep and gut wrenching. Jett is a Veteran so you get to see his guilt and mental health while also finding that Wren is always dealing with trauma too. Together they work to heal themselves and each other and boy was it an amazing journey. I can't wait to see what comes next!
Thank you to the smuthood and Alexis for the gifted ebook.
This is a dual POV between Wren and Jett. They were childhood besties turned to lovers and when they were supposed to move off and start their life together one stupid night changes everything. When is left feeling abandoned and she moves off where life takes her to LA where she finds a nightmare. After 10 years she's back home to start fresh. Unfortunately, she comes face to face with Jett. Both feeling flayed but yet can't deny their spark is still blazing.
Throughout this story Jett and Wren overcome their past. The feelings are deep and gut wrenching. Jett is a Veteran so you get to see his guilt and mental health while also finding that Wren is always dealing with trauma too. Together they work to heal themselves and each other and boy was it an amazing journey. I can't wait to see what comes next!
Thank you to the smuthood and Alexis for the gifted ebook.
June 20, 2026
THIS is the kind of book I've been wanting to read; devastatingly beautiful, heartbreaking, all consuming, funny, ignore all my responsibilities until I get to the very end kind of read. And even though I cried so much, I cannot wait until I'm able to read this again!
Wren and Jett have known each other all their lives; their parents were best friends so they literally grew up together, became best friends themselves, and then fell into an epic love. At such a young age they think they've got it all figured out, and just know they are going to spend the rest of their lives stupidly happy and head over heels in love..until it doesn't. Promises and hearts are broken and what looked like forever is now something they are both trying desperately not to think about. It's been ten years since fate tore them apart, but now that they are finally back in the same place, in their hometown, will they be able to fix what they never intended to break? Or is trauma, heartbreak and guilt just too much to mend?
Man.. this book gutted me in the best of ways. I saw so much of myself in Wren, and how she has fought her way through crippling heartbreak to literally surviving a monster, plus all the guilt she carries for circumstances that were out of control. She's still trying to figure out who she is, but she knows the girl she's been pretending to be is no longer cutting it. So when her life is once again turned upside down, she comes back home, intending to just fix her family and maybe her own heart.. until she runs into the person who still holds the other half.
Jett stole my heart from the very first page! What used to be an angry teen who only had eyes for his best friend is now a man who is tortured from war, and is learning to acclimate both as a cowboy, and dealing with all the emotions he's suppressed for the past decade.. especially since his reason for breathing just came back home. But will he be able to make Wren see that he never meant to break her heart? Can he forgive her secrets? Or will her dark past threaten the future they were supposed to have but always seem just short of?
I could go on and on about this book and my love for this couple, but I also love the found family aspect too! I am so excited to learn more about their dynamics more and I'm desperate to see these couples come together! GAH, just go read this book!
This was my first time reading this author, but it certainly won't be my last!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
Wren and Jett have known each other all their lives; their parents were best friends so they literally grew up together, became best friends themselves, and then fell into an epic love. At such a young age they think they've got it all figured out, and just know they are going to spend the rest of their lives stupidly happy and head over heels in love..until it doesn't. Promises and hearts are broken and what looked like forever is now something they are both trying desperately not to think about. It's been ten years since fate tore them apart, but now that they are finally back in the same place, in their hometown, will they be able to fix what they never intended to break? Or is trauma, heartbreak and guilt just too much to mend?
Man.. this book gutted me in the best of ways. I saw so much of myself in Wren, and how she has fought her way through crippling heartbreak to literally surviving a monster, plus all the guilt she carries for circumstances that were out of control. She's still trying to figure out who she is, but she knows the girl she's been pretending to be is no longer cutting it. So when her life is once again turned upside down, she comes back home, intending to just fix her family and maybe her own heart.. until she runs into the person who still holds the other half.
Jett stole my heart from the very first page! What used to be an angry teen who only had eyes for his best friend is now a man who is tortured from war, and is learning to acclimate both as a cowboy, and dealing with all the emotions he's suppressed for the past decade.. especially since his reason for breathing just came back home. But will he be able to make Wren see that he never meant to break her heart? Can he forgive her secrets? Or will her dark past threaten the future they were supposed to have but always seem just short of?
I could go on and on about this book and my love for this couple, but I also love the found family aspect too! I am so excited to learn more about their dynamics more and I'm desperate to see these couples come together! GAH, just go read this book!
This was my first time reading this author, but it certainly won't be my last!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
June 16, 2026
* Thank you so much to The Smuthood and Alexis Buxton for this ARC. *
Let me tell you, I am a sucker for an emotional second chance romance. This book had me crying for at least 75% of it. Jett and Wren went through so much without each other, and hearing how they spent their 10 years apart was heartbreaking. Their story is full of grief, regret, healing, and a love that never really went away. Watching them navigate everything they’d been through had me completely invested, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time. Alexis did such a great job capturing the weight of loss while also showing that it’s never too late to find your way back to the person who feels like home. I am so excited to see how the rest of this series goes!
Let me tell you, I am a sucker for an emotional second chance romance. This book had me crying for at least 75% of it. Jett and Wren went through so much without each other, and hearing how they spent their 10 years apart was heartbreaking. Their story is full of grief, regret, healing, and a love that never really went away. Watching them navigate everything they’d been through had me completely invested, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time. Alexis did such a great job capturing the weight of loss while also showing that it’s never too late to find your way back to the person who feels like home. I am so excited to see how the rest of this series goes!
June 19, 2026
ARC review thanks to the author & the SmutHoodPR ☆
What a roller-coaster!
If you are craving for an heart wreckingly good angsty romance LOOK NO FURTHER!
The second chance here is not only absolutely exquisite but every single plottwist got my heart breaking for Wren and Jett who really got thrown a poor hand at life 💔
It does have a HEA ending tho so FEAR NOT all this pain ended up in a great ending ♡
I cannot wait to see what happens next in Silo Bay 👀
What a roller-coaster!
If you are craving for an heart wreckingly good angsty romance LOOK NO FURTHER!
The second chance here is not only absolutely exquisite but every single plottwist got my heart breaking for Wren and Jett who really got thrown a poor hand at life 💔
It does have a HEA ending tho so FEAR NOT all this pain ended up in a great ending ♡
I cannot wait to see what happens next in Silo Bay 👀
May 30, 2026
The Scars of Yesterday was such an emotional read. I loved the mix of second-chance romance, small-town charm, and the deeper themes of healing and moving forward after heartbreak.
Wren and Jett had so much chemistry and history that it was impossible not to root for them. If you love emotional romances with childhood connections and lots of heart, this one is definitely worth reading.
Wren and Jett had so much chemistry and history that it was impossible not to root for them. If you love emotional romances with childhood connections and lots of heart, this one is definitely worth reading.
June 25, 2026
The characters' emotional journey in this book is EVERYTHING!!!
I absolutely loved this book, on such a deep level that I am even getting choked up writing this review.
The reason it took me so long to finish it was because it was SUCH an emotional read, that I would have to step away and compose myself. I shed so many tears as I walked alongside Wren (FMC) and Jett (MMC) while they worked to find their way back to each other. I would 100% read it again.
*Spoilers beyond this point & TW listed at the end*
For anyone who found themselves on a completely different path of life because of one single life changing moment. For the ones who have returned home to heal from the darkness they've endured when on their own. And for all of those who have experience the heartbreak of "If I had only known", this read is for you.
The journal entries written by Wren's Mom absolutely wrecked me. The words she wrote about Wren about missing how she'd pad into the kitchen, hair amess mirrors what my Mom would always say, "the pitter pattering of little feet". And the fact MY Mom texted me right as I was reading the journal entries of Wren's Mom...the universe works in special ways. My heart aches for Wren having distanced herself from her Mom due to her abusive ex-fiancé only to lose her before every getting to see her again. The blessing is, her Mom's passing was her way escape from her abuser back to the safety of her home town.
This book carries so much love, hurt, grief, pain, hope. Jett having battled his own demons, a military vet, and also just as in the dark as why Wren never responded to his letter. That both sets of parents ultimately chose to NOT give Wren. Which left Wren to always wonder why did her childhood best friend, her boyfriend, the love of her life up and disappear on her overnight? The sensation of realization when Wren and Jett find out simultaneously what their parents withheld is massive. Because that 1 decision changed the trajectory of both their lives, and impacted Wren in such a negative way, questioning her self worth, love, and loyalty in partnership. And that unfortunately led her right into the hands of a monster.
So much hurt and healing in this book. It is a therapeutic, cathartic, beautifully wounded read.
The Scars of Yesterday is the PERFECT title for this love story of mourning the loss of what could have been. The history of the main characters and their finding a way back to each other. And in addition to the main characters' emotional depth, their supporting characters traits and background storylines are just as impactful and intriguing. The author did a fantastic job with making it where my main focus was definitely on our main characters', I definitely notated the subtle undertones & questions arising from the potential future books of this series to come.
ALSO there definitely were LOL worthy moments of the book between the main characters, friends, & family, so I PROMISE it's not a down in the dumps read at all. It's LIFE. The ups and downs. The victories and failures. The celebrations and mourning. You feel it all, and love it all.
Seriously cannot recommend this book enough!!!
*Sensitive topics include a loss of a parent, abusive/controlling ex-fiancé, off page miscarriage
I absolutely loved this book, on such a deep level that I am even getting choked up writing this review.
The reason it took me so long to finish it was because it was SUCH an emotional read, that I would have to step away and compose myself. I shed so many tears as I walked alongside Wren (FMC) and Jett (MMC) while they worked to find their way back to each other. I would 100% read it again.
*Spoilers beyond this point & TW listed at the end*
For anyone who found themselves on a completely different path of life because of one single life changing moment. For the ones who have returned home to heal from the darkness they've endured when on their own. And for all of those who have experience the heartbreak of "If I had only known", this read is for you.
The journal entries written by Wren's Mom absolutely wrecked me. The words she wrote about Wren about missing how she'd pad into the kitchen, hair amess mirrors what my Mom would always say, "the pitter pattering of little feet". And the fact MY Mom texted me right as I was reading the journal entries of Wren's Mom...the universe works in special ways. My heart aches for Wren having distanced herself from her Mom due to her abusive ex-fiancé only to lose her before every getting to see her again. The blessing is, her Mom's passing was her way escape from her abuser back to the safety of her home town.
This book carries so much love, hurt, grief, pain, hope. Jett having battled his own demons, a military vet, and also just as in the dark as why Wren never responded to his letter. That both sets of parents ultimately chose to NOT give Wren. Which left Wren to always wonder why did her childhood best friend, her boyfriend, the love of her life up and disappear on her overnight? The sensation of realization when Wren and Jett find out simultaneously what their parents withheld is massive. Because that 1 decision changed the trajectory of both their lives, and impacted Wren in such a negative way, questioning her self worth, love, and loyalty in partnership. And that unfortunately led her right into the hands of a monster.
So much hurt and healing in this book. It is a therapeutic, cathartic, beautifully wounded read.
The Scars of Yesterday is the PERFECT title for this love story of mourning the loss of what could have been. The history of the main characters and their finding a way back to each other. And in addition to the main characters' emotional depth, their supporting characters traits and background storylines are just as impactful and intriguing. The author did a fantastic job with making it where my main focus was definitely on our main characters', I definitely notated the subtle undertones & questions arising from the potential future books of this series to come.
ALSO there definitely were LOL worthy moments of the book between the main characters, friends, & family, so I PROMISE it's not a down in the dumps read at all. It's LIFE. The ups and downs. The victories and failures. The celebrations and mourning. You feel it all, and love it all.
Seriously cannot recommend this book enough!!!
*Sensitive topics include a loss of a parent, abusive/controlling ex-fiancé, off page miscarriage
June 17, 2026
❤️🌾 Scars Don't Just Mark What Broke Us 🌾❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Scars of Yesterday absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way.
This wasn't just a second-chance romance. It was a story about grief, healing, forgiveness, survival, and learning how to move forward when the weight of the past refuses to let go. From the very first chapters, Alexis Buxton had me completely invested in Wren and Jett's story, and by the end I was emotionally drained, emotionally healed, and already desperate for the next book in the series.
Wren and Jett's history runs deep. They weren't simply former lovers; they were each other's first love, best friend, and future once upon a time. When one devastating night tears them apart, the life they thought they would have together disappears. Ten years later, fate brings them both back to Silo Bay, forcing them to confront the heartbreak, misunderstandings, and truths they've spent years trying to outrun.
Wren's journey absolutely broke my heart. After building a life in California as a reality television star and real estate agent, she returns home carrying wounds far deeper than anyone realizes. Watching her face her past while navigating trauma, fear, and the ghosts she thought she'd escaped was incredibly emotional. Her growth throughout the story felt authentic and hard-earned, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
And then there's Jett.
This man only ever had eyes for Wren.
Even after ten years apart, the love he carried for her was impossible to miss. His time in the military changed him, but beneath everything he remained fiercely loyal, protective, and completely devoted. As old truths come to light and long-buried secrets are finally revealed, Jett proves over and over again that he will do whatever it takes to protect the woman he loves.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the way Alexis used flashbacks to slowly reveal Wren and Jett's history. Every glimpse into their past added another layer to their relationship, making the present-day reconciliation even more powerful. The tension, longing, heartbreak, and hope poured off the pages. I felt every emotion right alongside them.
The romantic suspense element was also woven in beautifully. It added tension and urgency without ever overshadowing the romance itself. The danger lurking beneath the surface kept me turning pages while the emotional journey remained the true heart of the story.
Silo Bay completely captured my heart. The small-town atmosphere, the supporting characters, and the sense of community made this world feel real and lived-in. I already can't wait to return and see whose story comes next.
The Scars of Yesterday is emotional, angsty, hopeful, and beautifully written. It's a story about surviving what breaks you, finding the courage to heal, and discovering that some loves never truly leave you behind.
Thank you to Alexis Buxton and Smuthood for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️
The Scars of Yesterday absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way.
This wasn't just a second-chance romance. It was a story about grief, healing, forgiveness, survival, and learning how to move forward when the weight of the past refuses to let go. From the very first chapters, Alexis Buxton had me completely invested in Wren and Jett's story, and by the end I was emotionally drained, emotionally healed, and already desperate for the next book in the series.
Wren and Jett's history runs deep. They weren't simply former lovers; they were each other's first love, best friend, and future once upon a time. When one devastating night tears them apart, the life they thought they would have together disappears. Ten years later, fate brings them both back to Silo Bay, forcing them to confront the heartbreak, misunderstandings, and truths they've spent years trying to outrun.
Wren's journey absolutely broke my heart. After building a life in California as a reality television star and real estate agent, she returns home carrying wounds far deeper than anyone realizes. Watching her face her past while navigating trauma, fear, and the ghosts she thought she'd escaped was incredibly emotional. Her growth throughout the story felt authentic and hard-earned, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
And then there's Jett.
This man only ever had eyes for Wren.
Even after ten years apart, the love he carried for her was impossible to miss. His time in the military changed him, but beneath everything he remained fiercely loyal, protective, and completely devoted. As old truths come to light and long-buried secrets are finally revealed, Jett proves over and over again that he will do whatever it takes to protect the woman he loves.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the way Alexis used flashbacks to slowly reveal Wren and Jett's history. Every glimpse into their past added another layer to their relationship, making the present-day reconciliation even more powerful. The tension, longing, heartbreak, and hope poured off the pages. I felt every emotion right alongside them.
The romantic suspense element was also woven in beautifully. It added tension and urgency without ever overshadowing the romance itself. The danger lurking beneath the surface kept me turning pages while the emotional journey remained the true heart of the story.
Silo Bay completely captured my heart. The small-town atmosphere, the supporting characters, and the sense of community made this world feel real and lived-in. I already can't wait to return and see whose story comes next.
The Scars of Yesterday is emotional, angsty, hopeful, and beautifully written. It's a story about surviving what breaks you, finding the courage to heal, and discovering that some loves never truly leave you behind.
Thank you to Alexis Buxton and Smuthood for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 9, 2026
Too drawn out, especially their seperation
Dislikes
1. Language, lots of curse words which I don't usually mind, except, leave Jesus out of it. Deal breaker for continued support of author.
2. Ten years apart. Way too long under the circumstances.
3. MMC not contacting FMC for four years and then being angry she tried to move on. He treats her like she's the one who broke his heart. If she did, from her perspective, why not? She knew even less about his situation than he did, actually she knew none of it. Is he a kicka$$, adult man, or a mommy's boy? His only attempt to contact FMC was one short note through mom. It feels like FMC let him off the hook too quickly after his choice to continue the silence. Four years is plenty of time to contact her through other avenues.
4. After LA fiasco, lawsuits, warnings from her attorney and hearing her ex donated to a local auction she's involved with, FMC is not smart enough to call 911 after finding an open window in her home and feeling like someone has been there?? Annndd...lets go walking in dark alleys?
5. Is this Davis character for real? He's pulling out handcuffs because someone found info before him? That's not interfering, that's doing your job for you because you're not. The priority is a missing woman in mortal danger, the handcuffs can come out after she is safe if necessary. Mind blown. Nevermind the missing woman is supposedly his friend and also the sister of a fellow officer! Banging head on wall over here.
6. MMC'S family, especially his parents, treat him like a failure, can't be trusted, black sheep for ONE NIGHT. It sounds like he did the normal high school stuff for boys until that one night got out of hand. From what I can tell this wasn't his normal behavior, yet they would rather break him apart from the person he loves like he's unworthy (immature, yes, but what 18 year old couple is completely mature), send him off to war where he might not return and if he does, possibly changed forever. Not to mention, the impact on FMC. I wish the dad was still alive to see the havoc he created. I get legal action was pending but for a first offense he could have replaced mailboxes, completed community service, or parole. Even if he did some time it seems he should have, as an adult, had a choice. Idk, seems extreme.
7. If there was even one competent officer in the numerous ones on scene, the only person shot would have been Elias. He should have been full of holes as soon as he got out of camper. We know he already had a weapon in his hands, he shouldn't have been given time to aim and pull trigger. I guess it's more dramatic for the hero to take a bullet but it sure makes the whole police force look incompetent.
8. Overly detailed $ex scenes.
9. No epilogue without signing up for a newsletter. How many newsletters can we read and still have to read books?
Liked
1.Charcters are good together once they get there.
2. Good supporting characters, with the exception of interfering, lying parents.
3.Mostly a good storyline, minus the above, just too drawn out.
Dislikes
1. Language, lots of curse words which I don't usually mind, except, leave Jesus out of it. Deal breaker for continued support of author.
2. Ten years apart. Way too long under the circumstances.
3. MMC not contacting FMC for four years and then being angry she tried to move on. He treats her like she's the one who broke his heart. If she did, from her perspective, why not? She knew even less about his situation than he did, actually she knew none of it. Is he a kicka$$, adult man, or a mommy's boy? His only attempt to contact FMC was one short note through mom. It feels like FMC let him off the hook too quickly after his choice to continue the silence. Four years is plenty of time to contact her through other avenues.
4. After LA fiasco, lawsuits, warnings from her attorney and hearing her ex donated to a local auction she's involved with, FMC is not smart enough to call 911 after finding an open window in her home and feeling like someone has been there?? Annndd...lets go walking in dark alleys?
5. Is this Davis character for real? He's pulling out handcuffs because someone found info before him? That's not interfering, that's doing your job for you because you're not. The priority is a missing woman in mortal danger, the handcuffs can come out after she is safe if necessary. Mind blown. Nevermind the missing woman is supposedly his friend and also the sister of a fellow officer! Banging head on wall over here.
6. MMC'S family, especially his parents, treat him like a failure, can't be trusted, black sheep for ONE NIGHT. It sounds like he did the normal high school stuff for boys until that one night got out of hand. From what I can tell this wasn't his normal behavior, yet they would rather break him apart from the person he loves like he's unworthy (immature, yes, but what 18 year old couple is completely mature), send him off to war where he might not return and if he does, possibly changed forever. Not to mention, the impact on FMC. I wish the dad was still alive to see the havoc he created. I get legal action was pending but for a first offense he could have replaced mailboxes, completed community service, or parole. Even if he did some time it seems he should have, as an adult, had a choice. Idk, seems extreme.
7. If there was even one competent officer in the numerous ones on scene, the only person shot would have been Elias. He should have been full of holes as soon as he got out of camper. We know he already had a weapon in his hands, he shouldn't have been given time to aim and pull trigger. I guess it's more dramatic for the hero to take a bullet but it sure makes the whole police force look incompetent.
8. Overly detailed $ex scenes.
9. No epilogue without signing up for a newsletter. How many newsletters can we read and still have to read books?
Liked
1.Charcters are good together once they get there.
2. Good supporting characters, with the exception of interfering, lying parents.
3.Mostly a good storyline, minus the above, just too drawn out.
June 17, 2026
✨✨✨ ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review ✨✨✨
Thank you to The Smuthood and the author for this ARC!
First off, check your trigger warnings! There is some on screen depiction of domestic abuse and off page bereavement of parental figures.
Now, I've just finished this book and honestly, I feel like I've been on an emotional rollercoaster 😭💔. The author did an amazing job of making me feel the same emotions as the characters and there were several points in the book where my heart genuinely hurt. I experienced joy, the anticipation when you realise you're falling in love, the anger of first love/true love heartbreak, feeling lost etc.
Wren was an amazing FMC and I really felt like we went on a journey with her. It was authentic, messy and at times chaotic, but it felt real. Wren didn't just 'heal' miraculously and live her HEA. She fought for every single victory and worked hard to move past lots of her trauma.
Jett.....wow......what do I even say? Because he was an absolute God amongst mere mortal men. The love he had for Wren was intoxicating. 10 years of celibacy because he knew she was the one, even though he massively messed up and may never get her back? SIGN ME UP!
The side characters were great and I'm excited to see where the author takes Heath's story (who is up next in the series), but honestly? I'm looking forward to Saylor's book. She is one quirky, feisty and hilarious woman. Definite bestie category!
This story is a definite slow unraveller and the author keeps you in suspense in relation to a lot of what happened between Wren and Jett when they were younger. But the truth finally comes to light with both families and friends bringing warmth, humour, occasional frustration, and glimpses into stories that are yet to unfold.
What to expect/Tropes:
✨Military/Cowboy x Reality Star
✨Second Chance
✨Small Town
✨Romantic Suspense
✨Mental Health Rep
✨Friends - Lovers - Enemies - Lovers
✨It's only ever been you
This was a pretty hefty book and it took me a couple of days to finish (damn actually having to work for a living and not just being able to sit and read a book all day like I want to!), but at no point did I ever think about DNF'ing it. It got its hooks into me straight away and I LOVED IT.
The spice? You will not be disappointed. Honestly, it is hot and heavy with the perfect amount of praise and body worshipping. There's a bit at the end (I won't spoil the circumstances around it) where he asks her to take a seat somewhere that isn't a chair/his lap and I almost slipped off my seat (if you know what I mean?!) 👏
I will definitely be carrying on with this series!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to The Smuthood and the author for this ARC!
First off, check your trigger warnings! There is some on screen depiction of domestic abuse and off page bereavement of parental figures.
Now, I've just finished this book and honestly, I feel like I've been on an emotional rollercoaster 😭💔. The author did an amazing job of making me feel the same emotions as the characters and there were several points in the book where my heart genuinely hurt. I experienced joy, the anticipation when you realise you're falling in love, the anger of first love/true love heartbreak, feeling lost etc.
Wren was an amazing FMC and I really felt like we went on a journey with her. It was authentic, messy and at times chaotic, but it felt real. Wren didn't just 'heal' miraculously and live her HEA. She fought for every single victory and worked hard to move past lots of her trauma.
Jett.....wow......what do I even say? Because he was an absolute God amongst mere mortal men. The love he had for Wren was intoxicating. 10 years of celibacy because he knew she was the one, even though he massively messed up and may never get her back? SIGN ME UP!
The side characters were great and I'm excited to see where the author takes Heath's story (who is up next in the series), but honestly? I'm looking forward to Saylor's book. She is one quirky, feisty and hilarious woman. Definite bestie category!
This story is a definite slow unraveller and the author keeps you in suspense in relation to a lot of what happened between Wren and Jett when they were younger. But the truth finally comes to light with both families and friends bringing warmth, humour, occasional frustration, and glimpses into stories that are yet to unfold.
What to expect/Tropes:
✨Military/Cowboy x Reality Star
✨Second Chance
✨Small Town
✨Romantic Suspense
✨Mental Health Rep
✨Friends - Lovers - Enemies - Lovers
✨It's only ever been you
This was a pretty hefty book and it took me a couple of days to finish (damn actually having to work for a living and not just being able to sit and read a book all day like I want to!), but at no point did I ever think about DNF'ing it. It got its hooks into me straight away and I LOVED IT.
The spice? You will not be disappointed. Honestly, it is hot and heavy with the perfect amount of praise and body worshipping. There's a bit at the end (I won't spoil the circumstances around it) where he asks her to take a seat somewhere that isn't a chair/his lap and I almost slipped off my seat (if you know what I mean?!) 👏
I will definitely be carrying on with this series!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 23, 2026
"We'll always carry the scars of yesterday, but it's how we move forward that matters. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow isn't promised — all we can do is live."
The Scars of Yesterday completely blew me away. Wren and Jett’s second-chance romance is deeply emotional, moving at a wonderfully natural healing pace where both characters genuinely respect each other's boundaries. The letters Jett wrote to Wren that he never got to send were absolutely heartbreaking, and the emotional weight of Wren’s past (especially the devastating look into her mother's perspective through her letters) left a massive impact on me. I also loved that the girls of Silo Bay were completely non-toxic and supportive towards each other. What stood out the most, though, was how beautifully and carefully the story handled trauma and PTSD, showing the reality of learning how to properly support someone who is healing.
I can go on and yap about all things I love about this story but I also have to be fair and say that it wasnt perfect. One of the things I wished was discussed more was the gap or the period where both Wren and Jett was seperated. I wouldve want to know what happened to them in their respective careers more. I want to get to know stories about what she saw in Elias because I would like to really believe that she saw a bit of goodness in him before he changed. Another one since Jett's military background was mention quite a bit and that it also played a huge role in their initial break up, I would love if it was discussed a bit more, perhaps some scenes of him deployed. Lastly, Elias. Since he was the ex, the reason she even went back to Silo Bay. He suddenly appeared then disappeared in the story... this made the eventual resolution of his storyline feel a bit too abrupt and jarring.
Even with those pacing minor issues, this was an incredibly powerful, quote-worthy read. It’s a beautifully written, angsty journey about survival, and I cannot wait to see what Alexis Buxton has in store for the rest of this series. I was able to highlight so many things in this book because of how much I love it and the quotes I was able to get.
Many thanks to Alexis Buxton for providing me with an ARC copy of this book.
I am leaving this review voluntarily, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my honest reaction to the story.
Full reviews at : pagesofyue.com
The Scars of Yesterday completely blew me away. Wren and Jett’s second-chance romance is deeply emotional, moving at a wonderfully natural healing pace where both characters genuinely respect each other's boundaries. The letters Jett wrote to Wren that he never got to send were absolutely heartbreaking, and the emotional weight of Wren’s past (especially the devastating look into her mother's perspective through her letters) left a massive impact on me. I also loved that the girls of Silo Bay were completely non-toxic and supportive towards each other. What stood out the most, though, was how beautifully and carefully the story handled trauma and PTSD, showing the reality of learning how to properly support someone who is healing.
I can go on and yap about all things I love about this story but I also have to be fair and say that it wasnt perfect. One of the things I wished was discussed more was the gap or the period where both Wren and Jett was seperated. I wouldve want to know what happened to them in their respective careers more. I want to get to know stories about what she saw in Elias because I would like to really believe that she saw a bit of goodness in him before he changed. Another one since Jett's military background was mention quite a bit and that it also played a huge role in their initial break up, I would love if it was discussed a bit more, perhaps some scenes of him deployed. Lastly, Elias. Since he was the ex, the reason she even went back to Silo Bay. He suddenly appeared then disappeared in the story... this made the eventual resolution of his storyline feel a bit too abrupt and jarring.
Even with those pacing minor issues, this was an incredibly powerful, quote-worthy read. It’s a beautifully written, angsty journey about survival, and I cannot wait to see what Alexis Buxton has in store for the rest of this series. I was able to highlight so many things in this book because of how much I love it and the quotes I was able to get.
Many thanks to Alexis Buxton for providing me with an ARC copy of this book.
I am leaving this review voluntarily, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my honest reaction to the story.
Full reviews at : pagesofyue.com
June 19, 2026
✨ The Scars of Yesterday – Alexis Buxton ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
🌾❤️🎖️🏡🥹
If you love:
• second chance romance
• childhood friends to lovers
• small-town romance
• military hero
• emotional healing journeys
• romantic suspense
THIS BOOK BROKE MY HEART AND PUT IT BACK TOGETHER AGAIN 😭❤️
Wren and Jett’s story is the kind of second-chance romance that completely consumes you. The history between them is felt from the very first page, and every interaction carries the weight of years of love, heartbreak, and unanswered questions.
Wren’s return to Silo Bay isn’t just about coming home—it’s about facing the past she tried to leave behind. After years in the spotlight on a reality TV show, watching her search for peace and healing felt incredibly emotional 🥹❤️
And Jett…
This man absolutely stole my heart 😭🎖️
After years in the military, he’s carrying his own scars while trying to rebuild a life on his family’s cattle farm. He’s protective, loyal, and still very much affected by the girl he left behind.
The chemistry between them never disappeared. Even when they’re hurting, angry, or trying to keep their distance, the connection feels undeniable.
One of my favorite parts was how well the book handled healing and mental health. The emotional struggles felt authentic, and neither character was magically “fixed.” Instead, they learn how to move forward while carrying the scars of their past.
The small-town setting added so much warmth to the story. Silo Bay feels like a real community filled with history, memories, and people who never quite forget the loves that got away 🏡🌾
The romantic suspense element added just enough tension to keep me turning pages, while the emotional journey kept me fully invested in Wren and Jett’s relationship.
This is one of those romances that hurts before it heals, and those are often my favorites ❤️😭
If you love emotional second-chance romances with childhood sweethearts, military heroes, small-town charm, and characters finding their way back to each other after years apart, The Scars of Yesterday is absolutely worth the read 🌾❤️🎖️✨.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
🌾❤️🎖️🏡🥹
If you love:
• second chance romance
• childhood friends to lovers
• small-town romance
• military hero
• emotional healing journeys
• romantic suspense
THIS BOOK BROKE MY HEART AND PUT IT BACK TOGETHER AGAIN 😭❤️
Wren and Jett’s story is the kind of second-chance romance that completely consumes you. The history between them is felt from the very first page, and every interaction carries the weight of years of love, heartbreak, and unanswered questions.
Wren’s return to Silo Bay isn’t just about coming home—it’s about facing the past she tried to leave behind. After years in the spotlight on a reality TV show, watching her search for peace and healing felt incredibly emotional 🥹❤️
And Jett…
This man absolutely stole my heart 😭🎖️
After years in the military, he’s carrying his own scars while trying to rebuild a life on his family’s cattle farm. He’s protective, loyal, and still very much affected by the girl he left behind.
The chemistry between them never disappeared. Even when they’re hurting, angry, or trying to keep their distance, the connection feels undeniable.
One of my favorite parts was how well the book handled healing and mental health. The emotional struggles felt authentic, and neither character was magically “fixed.” Instead, they learn how to move forward while carrying the scars of their past.
The small-town setting added so much warmth to the story. Silo Bay feels like a real community filled with history, memories, and people who never quite forget the loves that got away 🏡🌾
The romantic suspense element added just enough tension to keep me turning pages, while the emotional journey kept me fully invested in Wren and Jett’s relationship.
This is one of those romances that hurts before it heals, and those are often my favorites ❤️😭
If you love emotional second-chance romances with childhood sweethearts, military heroes, small-town charm, and characters finding their way back to each other after years apart, The Scars of Yesterday is absolutely worth the read 🌾❤️🎖️✨.
June 26, 2026
The Scars of Yesterday – Alexis Buxton
Okay, you guys, I am on a roll with discovering new authors, and they keep turning out to be amazing! The Scars of Yesterday is another perfect example.
This book took me on such an emotional rollercoaster that I wasn’t expecting, but I didn’t mind one bit. Wren and Jett went through so much before finally getting their happily ever after, so to say I was happy for them when they finally found their way back to each other is an understatement.
Wren and Jett were high school sweethearts with big dreams and plans for their future after graduation. But one mistake changes everything. Jett is forced to leave Wren, Silo Bay, and the life they had planned together behind. Trust me, it was just as frustrating for me as it will be for you!
Wren does what anyone would have to do—she picks up the pieces, goes to college, and builds a life without him. She eventually ends up in Los Angeles, where she works in real estate and even lands on a reality TV series. Go, Wren!
Years later, Jett returns home after serving in the military and throws himself back into farm life. But he’s still carrying the weight of his past and has never truly let go of the girl whose heart he broke. When Wren returns to Silo Bay after running from troubles of her own, these two are finally back in the same town after ten years apart—with plenty of unresolved feelings between them.
Every interaction between Wren and Jett is filled with so much emotion. I could feel their heartbreak, longing, and chemistry through the pages of my Kindle. It was obvious they never stopped loving each other, but there was also so much pain and resentment standing in their way.
I absolutely loved watching them rebuild their relationship little by little. Their journey back to each other felt authentic, emotional, and incredibly rewarding. This was such a wonderful second-chance romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
If you’re a fan of emotional, slow-burn second-chance romances with plenty of heart, I definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR!
Okay, you guys, I am on a roll with discovering new authors, and they keep turning out to be amazing! The Scars of Yesterday is another perfect example.
This book took me on such an emotional rollercoaster that I wasn’t expecting, but I didn’t mind one bit. Wren and Jett went through so much before finally getting their happily ever after, so to say I was happy for them when they finally found their way back to each other is an understatement.
Wren and Jett were high school sweethearts with big dreams and plans for their future after graduation. But one mistake changes everything. Jett is forced to leave Wren, Silo Bay, and the life they had planned together behind. Trust me, it was just as frustrating for me as it will be for you!
Wren does what anyone would have to do—she picks up the pieces, goes to college, and builds a life without him. She eventually ends up in Los Angeles, where she works in real estate and even lands on a reality TV series. Go, Wren!
Years later, Jett returns home after serving in the military and throws himself back into farm life. But he’s still carrying the weight of his past and has never truly let go of the girl whose heart he broke. When Wren returns to Silo Bay after running from troubles of her own, these two are finally back in the same town after ten years apart—with plenty of unresolved feelings between them.
Every interaction between Wren and Jett is filled with so much emotion. I could feel their heartbreak, longing, and chemistry through the pages of my Kindle. It was obvious they never stopped loving each other, but there was also so much pain and resentment standing in their way.
I absolutely loved watching them rebuild their relationship little by little. Their journey back to each other felt authentic, emotional, and incredibly rewarding. This was such a wonderful second-chance romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
If you’re a fan of emotional, slow-burn second-chance romances with plenty of heart, I definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR!
Review of advance copy
This was my first book by Alexis Buxton, and it definitely won't be my last. From the very first page, I was captivated by her richly detailed, evocative storytelling. Her writing is beautifully crafted, engaging, and filled with emotion, creating a story that completely pulled me in and refused to let go.
Ten years ago, Wren left Silo Bay heartbroken after being abandoned by the one person she loved most without so much as a goodbye. College and new opportunities in California were supposed to be her fresh start, but life didn't turn out the way she expected. After leaving her fiancé, Wren returns home a completely different person—a shell of the happy, carefree, and rebellious young woman she once was. Behind the carefully constructed mask she wears to hide her pain is someone haunted, broken, and exhausted from pretending to be okay. More than anything, she longs for a place to call her own, somewhere safe where she can finally put down roots.
Jett was once Silo Bay's wild troublemaker. Forced to leave town and join the Army after one particularly bad incident, he spent years trying to become a man worthy of Wren's love, a man she could depend on. When he returns home, he's changed. The experiences he endured during the war have left him carrying deep emotional scars. Yet through it all, one thing remains unchanged: he's never stopped loving Wren.
Wren and Jett's journey back to each other is filled with heartbreak, secrets, untold truths, meddling parents, and years of unanswered questions. Both spent a decade trying to figure out who they were apart, only to discover that some connections never truly fade. As they uncover what really happened ten years ago when everything fell apart, they're forced to confront old wounds, lingering anger, painful what-ifs, and the devastating impact of choices made for them.
Watching them slowly rebuild what was broken was both emotional and rewarding. Piece by piece, they find their way back to each other while also rediscovering themselves. Their story had me completely hooked from beginning to end, and I couldn't put it down. Alexis Buxton created a beautiful, emotional second-chance romance that left a lasting impression on me. "The scars of yesterday built who we are, and while I loved him at eighteen, I've never been more in love than I am with the version of him right now, in this bed with me, scars and all."
Ten years ago, Wren left Silo Bay heartbroken after being abandoned by the one person she loved most without so much as a goodbye. College and new opportunities in California were supposed to be her fresh start, but life didn't turn out the way she expected. After leaving her fiancé, Wren returns home a completely different person—a shell of the happy, carefree, and rebellious young woman she once was. Behind the carefully constructed mask she wears to hide her pain is someone haunted, broken, and exhausted from pretending to be okay. More than anything, she longs for a place to call her own, somewhere safe where she can finally put down roots.
Jett was once Silo Bay's wild troublemaker. Forced to leave town and join the Army after one particularly bad incident, he spent years trying to become a man worthy of Wren's love, a man she could depend on. When he returns home, he's changed. The experiences he endured during the war have left him carrying deep emotional scars. Yet through it all, one thing remains unchanged: he's never stopped loving Wren.
Wren and Jett's journey back to each other is filled with heartbreak, secrets, untold truths, meddling parents, and years of unanswered questions. Both spent a decade trying to figure out who they were apart, only to discover that some connections never truly fade. As they uncover what really happened ten years ago when everything fell apart, they're forced to confront old wounds, lingering anger, painful what-ifs, and the devastating impact of choices made for them.
Watching them slowly rebuild what was broken was both emotional and rewarding. Piece by piece, they find their way back to each other while also rediscovering themselves. Their story had me completely hooked from beginning to end, and I couldn't put it down. Alexis Buxton created a beautiful, emotional second-chance romance that left a lasting impression on me. "The scars of yesterday built who we are, and while I loved him at eighteen, I've never been more in love than I am with the version of him right now, in this bed with me, scars and all."
June 18, 2026
The Scars of Yesterday wrecked me in the best and worst ways possible. This story is about second chances, coming home, grief, healing, and finding yourself again after life has broken you. From the very first page, I was completely invested and couldn't put it down.
Wren and Jett's story began long before romance ever entered the picture. They were best friends from birth who eventually became high school sweethearts, only to be torn apart by circumstances beyond their control. Ten years later, Wren returns home after building a life in California as a reality television star, and suddenly the past they both tried to leave behind comes rushing back.
Wren's journey absolutely shattered my heart. Everything she endured left me aching for her. More than once, I wanted to reach through the pages, wrap her in a hug, and tell her that somehow everything would be okay.
The love between Wren and Jett was undeniable from the moment they reunited. Along with that love came years of hurt, misunderstandings, and unresolved pain. Wren believed Jett had walked away and forgotten about her, while Jett thought she had received his letter and simply didn't care. Neither of them knew the truth, and watching those misconceptions unravel was both heartbreaking and beautiful.
One of my favorite parts of this story was watching them rediscover each other. They didn't just fall back into old patterns, they learned who the other had become, shared their deepest wounds, and found a way to heal together. Their journey was messy, emotional, and incredibly moving. It was broken and beautiful all at once, and somehow it healed a little piece of me right alongside them.
Be sure to check the content warnings before diving in, this story tackles some heavy topics. Between the painful past, lingering trauma, and a dangerously obsessive ex lurking in the background, there were moments that had me on the edge of my seat. The suspense and emotional depth made this a story will be sticking with me for a while.
Wren and Jett's story began long before romance ever entered the picture. They were best friends from birth who eventually became high school sweethearts, only to be torn apart by circumstances beyond their control. Ten years later, Wren returns home after building a life in California as a reality television star, and suddenly the past they both tried to leave behind comes rushing back.
Wren's journey absolutely shattered my heart. Everything she endured left me aching for her. More than once, I wanted to reach through the pages, wrap her in a hug, and tell her that somehow everything would be okay.
The love between Wren and Jett was undeniable from the moment they reunited. Along with that love came years of hurt, misunderstandings, and unresolved pain. Wren believed Jett had walked away and forgotten about her, while Jett thought she had received his letter and simply didn't care. Neither of them knew the truth, and watching those misconceptions unravel was both heartbreaking and beautiful.
One of my favorite parts of this story was watching them rediscover each other. They didn't just fall back into old patterns, they learned who the other had become, shared their deepest wounds, and found a way to heal together. Their journey was messy, emotional, and incredibly moving. It was broken and beautiful all at once, and somehow it healed a little piece of me right alongside them.
Be sure to check the content warnings before diving in, this story tackles some heavy topics. Between the painful past, lingering trauma, and a dangerously obsessive ex lurking in the background, there were moments that had me on the edge of my seat. The suspense and emotional depth made this a story will be sticking with me for a while.
June 21, 2026
Ten years ago Wren Drummond left Silo Bay with the intent of never setting foot in the sleepy little town again. That little town held painful memories she wanted to outrun and dreams she no longer wanted to chase. So, she packed her bags and headed to L.A. determined to find her future there, but after ten years of chasing stardom and being left devastated by her fiancé she has decided it's time for a change. A change that she is hoping to find in the one place she never thought she'd return to...Silo Bay.
This all consuming book is one of those books that you pick up and quickly find that you are about to become useless to the world around you until the last page finds you. It is impossible to put this book down. The words draw you in, the characters steal every ounce of your attention, and then they manage to wreck your heart into a million pieces before putting it all back together, and maybe even a little better than they found it, by the time the last page comes.
When I read the synopsis for this one I had an inkling that it was going to maybe be one of those books, but I have to say that nothing could have prepared me for what I found between it's pages. It was by far one of the best books that I have read this year and definitely one of the most impressive first reads that I have had in a long while. The words just hit different with this one, and I am still feeling them a week later.
I loved watching Wren find her well deserved happily ever after. To see her heal, grow, forgive, and give love another chance... it was such a beautiful journey. One that I highly recommend you take with her... you won't regret it, I promise! Highly recommend this one, it's a heart wrecker, but totally worth it!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
This all consuming book is one of those books that you pick up and quickly find that you are about to become useless to the world around you until the last page finds you. It is impossible to put this book down. The words draw you in, the characters steal every ounce of your attention, and then they manage to wreck your heart into a million pieces before putting it all back together, and maybe even a little better than they found it, by the time the last page comes.
When I read the synopsis for this one I had an inkling that it was going to maybe be one of those books, but I have to say that nothing could have prepared me for what I found between it's pages. It was by far one of the best books that I have read this year and definitely one of the most impressive first reads that I have had in a long while. The words just hit different with this one, and I am still feeling them a week later.
I loved watching Wren find her well deserved happily ever after. To see her heal, grow, forgive, and give love another chance... it was such a beautiful journey. One that I highly recommend you take with her... you won't regret it, I promise! Highly recommend this one, it's a heart wrecker, but totally worth it!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
June 18, 2026
📖- The Scars of Yesterday by Alexis Buxton
HAPPY PUB DAY!! 🥳✨
Available in ebook, paperback, & kindle unlimited
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Second Chance
✨ War Veteran/Farmer & Reality TV Star
✨ Broken MCs
✨ Angst and Yearning
✨ Found Family
✨ Romantic Suspense
✨ Mental Health & Therapy Rep
This book is hands down, one of my top fav second chances romances. Add in the romantic suspense and the farm vibes? I’m sold! I love Jett and Wren so so much. Reading about their broken pasts and how they healed separately (or tried to) was very heartfelt and emotional to read. I guarantee you won’t get through this book with dry eyes!
When Wren came back home after escaping what she had been dealing with, she learns to heal, and patch up her relationships with her family and the town she left behind 10 years ago. She becomes closer to Jett- the boy who broke her heart who is now a man on a mission- to win back the only woman he has ever loved. I so loved seeing them get back to together and heal together and be there for each other 🥰 The yearning this man has done for his girl is next level!!
The spicy scenes in this book were also 🔥🔥🥵🥵 but they were equally balanced with all the heaviness.
And the romantic suspense?! It was done so well while not dosing up the entire plot of the story!
While this book is heavy with emotional trauma, war memories and PTSD, grief, healing and more, it’s also so heartwarming with all the found family vibes. Jett and Wren’s group of friends and the farm is truly one of my favourite parts of this book and the series! I’m so looking forward to reading the next book!
This is my new favourite book of Alex’s and I highly recommend it if you love romantic suspense, second chance, angst and yearning!
HAPPY PUB DAY!! 🥳✨
Available in ebook, paperback, & kindle unlimited
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Second Chance
✨ War Veteran/Farmer & Reality TV Star
✨ Broken MCs
✨ Angst and Yearning
✨ Found Family
✨ Romantic Suspense
✨ Mental Health & Therapy Rep
This book is hands down, one of my top fav second chances romances. Add in the romantic suspense and the farm vibes? I’m sold! I love Jett and Wren so so much. Reading about their broken pasts and how they healed separately (or tried to) was very heartfelt and emotional to read. I guarantee you won’t get through this book with dry eyes!
When Wren came back home after escaping what she had been dealing with, she learns to heal, and patch up her relationships with her family and the town she left behind 10 years ago. She becomes closer to Jett- the boy who broke her heart who is now a man on a mission- to win back the only woman he has ever loved. I so loved seeing them get back to together and heal together and be there for each other 🥰 The yearning this man has done for his girl is next level!!
The spicy scenes in this book were also 🔥🔥🥵🥵 but they were equally balanced with all the heaviness.
And the romantic suspense?! It was done so well while not dosing up the entire plot of the story!
While this book is heavy with emotional trauma, war memories and PTSD, grief, healing and more, it’s also so heartwarming with all the found family vibes. Jett and Wren’s group of friends and the farm is truly one of my favourite parts of this book and the series! I’m so looking forward to reading the next book!
This is my new favourite book of Alex’s and I highly recommend it if you love romantic suspense, second chance, angst and yearning!
June 19, 2026
Ya’ll!! Get! This! Book! This is a romance with a second chance that will shatter your heart into a million pieces, the chemistry between Jett and Wren is so good you will be dyyying, Silo Bay is such a fabulous little town you wanna go back the second you leave, and this friend group, it’s of the zero filter ride or die variety and it makes the whole book feel like home. A must read for a hundred different reasons and I could not recommend it more!
I am so in love with Wren and Jett and their whole story that it’s just shy of obsessive, but this read totally deserves it. It sees Wren coming home to Silo Bay to pick up her broken pieces, hide, heal, and figure out what starting over looks like after getting herself out of an abusive controlling relationship that has made her miss some big things with her family. Jett, her best friend, first everything, and the man who left her in pieces, is also home working his family’s farm, and in true it’s a small town what did you expect fashion they somehow end up everywhere at the same time forcing them to face all the things they’ve left unsaid and ask all the questions they’re not sure they really want answers to and it’s just incredible. Their second chance is the centerpiece but is has a dash of suspense in the form of her ex that ratchets up the tension and really adds to the story overall, there is so much to unpack for them both emotionally and it is just done staggeringly well, and the whole read is genuine in a way that has you fully immersing yourself in all of it and really loving it. It’s the first book in a brand-new series for Alexis Buxton, it feels very different from her previous books, and it is hands down my favorite read from her so far.
I am so in love with Wren and Jett and their whole story that it’s just shy of obsessive, but this read totally deserves it. It sees Wren coming home to Silo Bay to pick up her broken pieces, hide, heal, and figure out what starting over looks like after getting herself out of an abusive controlling relationship that has made her miss some big things with her family. Jett, her best friend, first everything, and the man who left her in pieces, is also home working his family’s farm, and in true it’s a small town what did you expect fashion they somehow end up everywhere at the same time forcing them to face all the things they’ve left unsaid and ask all the questions they’re not sure they really want answers to and it’s just incredible. Their second chance is the centerpiece but is has a dash of suspense in the form of her ex that ratchets up the tension and really adds to the story overall, there is so much to unpack for them both emotionally and it is just done staggeringly well, and the whole read is genuine in a way that has you fully immersing yourself in all of it and really loving it. It’s the first book in a brand-new series for Alexis Buxton, it feels very different from her previous books, and it is hands down my favorite read from her so far.
June 19, 2026
Some second-chance romances are sweet. Some are emotional. This one completely wrecked me and put me back together again.
The Scars of Yesterday is the kind of story that reminds you why second-chance romance is such a beloved trope. Wren and Jett's journey isn't about falling in love—it's about finding their way back to a love that never truly left.
Ten years of heartbreak, unanswered questions, and painful misunderstandings stand between them, and you can feel the weight of every lost year. The emotion in this book felt so raw and authentic that I was invested from the very first chapter.
Wren's character especially broke my heart. Returning home carrying so much hurt while trying to figure out who she is after everything she's been through made her impossible not to root for. And Jett? That man spent years carrying his own scars while never letting go of the woman he loved.
What I loved most was that this story wasn't rushed. The healing felt earned. The forgiveness felt earned. Every conversation, every revelation, and every step back toward each other mattered.
The small-town setting added the perfect backdrop for a story built on history, memories, and the people who never quite forget your first love.
Alexis Buxton's writing is emotional, immersive, and beautifully layered. This was one of those books where I kept telling myself "one more chapter" and suddenly it was 2 a.m.
🤍 second chance romance
🌊 childhood sweethearts
🤍 small town romance
🌊 military hero
🤍 emotional healing
🌊 lost love
🤍 forced back together
🌊 secrets from the past
🤍 angst-filled romance
🌊 it's always been you
If you love emotional second-chance romances packed with longing, heartbreak, healing, and a love story that spans years, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
The Scars of Yesterday is the kind of story that reminds you why second-chance romance is such a beloved trope. Wren and Jett's journey isn't about falling in love—it's about finding their way back to a love that never truly left.
Ten years of heartbreak, unanswered questions, and painful misunderstandings stand between them, and you can feel the weight of every lost year. The emotion in this book felt so raw and authentic that I was invested from the very first chapter.
Wren's character especially broke my heart. Returning home carrying so much hurt while trying to figure out who she is after everything she's been through made her impossible not to root for. And Jett? That man spent years carrying his own scars while never letting go of the woman he loved.
What I loved most was that this story wasn't rushed. The healing felt earned. The forgiveness felt earned. Every conversation, every revelation, and every step back toward each other mattered.
The small-town setting added the perfect backdrop for a story built on history, memories, and the people who never quite forget your first love.
Alexis Buxton's writing is emotional, immersive, and beautifully layered. This was one of those books where I kept telling myself "one more chapter" and suddenly it was 2 a.m.
🤍 second chance romance
🌊 childhood sweethearts
🤍 small town romance
🌊 military hero
🤍 emotional healing
🌊 lost love
🤍 forced back together
🌊 secrets from the past
🤍 angst-filled romance
🌊 it's always been you
If you love emotional second-chance romances packed with longing, heartbreak, healing, and a love story that spans years, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC REVIEW**
Jett & Wren
When I say that I was hooked from the beginning and couldn't put my kindle down, I'm not lying. I have never felt so many emotions reading a book. I felt happiness, excitement, sadness, angst, anticipation. You name it, I was feeling it.
Jett and Wren have a lifetime of history and when one night of bad decisions tear them apart, the life they thought they'd have is no longer in the horizon. Ten years later and now they are both back in Silo Bay and are needing to face the past.
Wren is a reality star who has been living in California as a Real Estate Agent. After facing the unimaginable, she escapes that life and returns home to Silo Bay. She has some scars that are cut so deep and ghosts are past that she has to face now that she's back. In order to heal, she comes head to head with Jett to rehash the past. After danger starts lurking, she's forced to tell him and others the rest of her truth.
Jett has only had eyes for Wren, and after being forced to leave her without a work ten years ago, he realizes if he wants a future with her, they are going to have cut open some old wounds. Being in the military for so long, it has changed Jett in multiple ways. After sharing theirs truths no matter how difficult they were to hear, Wren and Jett slowly make their way back to each other. When Wrens past comes back to haunt her, Jett will stop at nothing to keep her this time.
I can't get over this book. I swooned, cried and laughed throughout the book. I loved this story and thought it was beautifully written. I can't wait for book two!
Jett & Wren
When I say that I was hooked from the beginning and couldn't put my kindle down, I'm not lying. I have never felt so many emotions reading a book. I felt happiness, excitement, sadness, angst, anticipation. You name it, I was feeling it.
Jett and Wren have a lifetime of history and when one night of bad decisions tear them apart, the life they thought they'd have is no longer in the horizon. Ten years later and now they are both back in Silo Bay and are needing to face the past.
Wren is a reality star who has been living in California as a Real Estate Agent. After facing the unimaginable, she escapes that life and returns home to Silo Bay. She has some scars that are cut so deep and ghosts are past that she has to face now that she's back. In order to heal, she comes head to head with Jett to rehash the past. After danger starts lurking, she's forced to tell him and others the rest of her truth.
Jett has only had eyes for Wren, and after being forced to leave her without a work ten years ago, he realizes if he wants a future with her, they are going to have cut open some old wounds. Being in the military for so long, it has changed Jett in multiple ways. After sharing theirs truths no matter how difficult they were to hear, Wren and Jett slowly make their way back to each other. When Wrens past comes back to haunt her, Jett will stop at nothing to keep her this time.
I can't get over this book. I swooned, cried and laughed throughout the book. I loved this story and thought it was beautifully written. I can't wait for book two!
June 24, 2026
Omg, what an emotional ride Alexis took us on with this one.
Wren has built a new life in California as a TV star and real estate agent, but when she finds herself needing escape, she heads back to her hometown of Silo Bay. Jett is now also back home in Silos Bay after years of being deployed, and is now trying to establish his life while running his family's cattle farm. Neither of them expected to be thrown back together in their hometown, and now that they're both there, they can't seem to stop running into each other.
Be prepared with tissues for this one. The journey of Wren and Jett finding their way back together and making it work while they are each healing is so emotional. Wren is trying to figure out who she even is after all those years in LA and trying to overcome the pain and trauma of abuse (check your TW), while Jett is a veteran dealing with the mental aftermath of being in the military. They each have so much to overcome, and it's emotionally intense even to the reader. This is also a dual timeline, and features flashbacks to the past to show and build the history between Wren and Jett. I personally love a dual timeline but I know not everyone does.
While this is a second chance romance (which I am a sucker for), it's so much more as well. Starting with heartbreak, grief, trauma/survival, moving into acceptance and forgiveness and self-healing. Wren and Jetts personal growth was depicted well and hard earned, just like their HEA.
Thank you so much to the Author Alexis for allowing me to read and review, it was my pleasure! I'm already waiting for Book 2!!
Wren has built a new life in California as a TV star and real estate agent, but when she finds herself needing escape, she heads back to her hometown of Silo Bay. Jett is now also back home in Silos Bay after years of being deployed, and is now trying to establish his life while running his family's cattle farm. Neither of them expected to be thrown back together in their hometown, and now that they're both there, they can't seem to stop running into each other.
Be prepared with tissues for this one. The journey of Wren and Jett finding their way back together and making it work while they are each healing is so emotional. Wren is trying to figure out who she even is after all those years in LA and trying to overcome the pain and trauma of abuse (check your TW), while Jett is a veteran dealing with the mental aftermath of being in the military. They each have so much to overcome, and it's emotionally intense even to the reader. This is also a dual timeline, and features flashbacks to the past to show and build the history between Wren and Jett. I personally love a dual timeline but I know not everyone does.
While this is a second chance romance (which I am a sucker for), it's so much more as well. Starting with heartbreak, grief, trauma/survival, moving into acceptance and forgiveness and self-healing. Wren and Jetts personal growth was depicted well and hard earned, just like their HEA.
Thank you so much to the Author Alexis for allowing me to read and review, it was my pleasure! I'm already waiting for Book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely devoured this book, this had so many elements I love in a contemporary romance and perfectly hits the small-town second chance romance. This is a dual POV with flashbacks to the past, which created the background necessary to fully understand Wren and Jett in the present. Their relationship is beautiful to watch, and the slow burn tension was perfection. The author did a great job at ensuring there was enough detail to pull you into the story without being overly detailed and losing sight of the story. I genuinely felt I was in Silo Bay, and could perfectly envision the setting.
Although, there is a darker side to this story and some of the themes discussed may be triggering, so please be mindful of your mental health. Personally, I did not read the triggers as I do not have them (but if you do please read them), so several aspects of the story caught me off guard, and had me feeling emotional and crying in several spots creating a deeper emotional connection to the story. Also, there were several spots that were not necessarily dark but had me tearing up as well because it just added to the heartbreak of watching their relationship unfold. The character development of both of the characters, especially Wren, was beautifully done and I felt they both grew.
Overall, I enjoyed this and would definitely recommend to those who love second chance and/or small-town romances. Also, I cannot wait to read the other character stories, as the author did a great job a foreshadowing who I imagine will be having their own story soon!
Although, there is a darker side to this story and some of the themes discussed may be triggering, so please be mindful of your mental health. Personally, I did not read the triggers as I do not have them (but if you do please read them), so several aspects of the story caught me off guard, and had me feeling emotional and crying in several spots creating a deeper emotional connection to the story. Also, there were several spots that were not necessarily dark but had me tearing up as well because it just added to the heartbreak of watching their relationship unfold. The character development of both of the characters, especially Wren, was beautifully done and I felt they both grew.
Overall, I enjoyed this and would definitely recommend to those who love second chance and/or small-town romances. Also, I cannot wait to read the other character stories, as the author did a great job a foreshadowing who I imagine will be having their own story soon!
June 16, 2026
Peppers - 3
Starts - 5
Hearts - 4
Silo Bay Series
ARC: Yes
Recommend: I really enjoyed it... Great read, couldn’t put it down. Add to your TBR now!
Format: eBook
Thropes
Military x Reality Star
Second Chance
Small Town
Romantic Suspense
Mental Health Rep
Friend - Lover - Enemies - Lovers
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, making me feel happy, sad, and tense all at once. It's a lovely small-town love story about second chances, told from both characters’ points of view and including flashbacks that help you understand their past better. The gradual build-up and detailed descriptions made everything feel real and immersive. Some parts are darker and could be upsetting, so please read carefully. The characters grow a lot, especially Wren, and her development is beautifully shown. After ten years apart, Wren, a successful real estate agent in California with her own scars, comes back to Silo Bay to heal and face her past with Jett, her longtime love and a military veteran. Their reunion, full of old wounds and new challenges, is a heartfelt story about reigniting their love.
Thoughts
I really loved this beautifully written book it made me feel so happy, emotional, and even made me laugh. I definitely recommend it if you enjoy stories about second chances and small-town love. I'm already looking forward to the next book and learning more about the other characters!
Silo Bay has taken a piece of my heart, and it always will.
Quote(s)
"Scars don’t only mark what broke us. Sometimes, they prove we survived it.”
Starts - 5
Hearts - 4
Silo Bay Series
ARC: Yes
Recommend: I really enjoyed it... Great read, couldn’t put it down. Add to your TBR now!
Format: eBook
Thropes
Military x Reality Star
Second Chance
Small Town
Romantic Suspense
Mental Health Rep
Friend - Lover - Enemies - Lovers
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, making me feel happy, sad, and tense all at once. It's a lovely small-town love story about second chances, told from both characters’ points of view and including flashbacks that help you understand their past better. The gradual build-up and detailed descriptions made everything feel real and immersive. Some parts are darker and could be upsetting, so please read carefully. The characters grow a lot, especially Wren, and her development is beautifully shown. After ten years apart, Wren, a successful real estate agent in California with her own scars, comes back to Silo Bay to heal and face her past with Jett, her longtime love and a military veteran. Their reunion, full of old wounds and new challenges, is a heartfelt story about reigniting their love.
Thoughts
I really loved this beautifully written book it made me feel so happy, emotional, and even made me laugh. I definitely recommend it if you enjoy stories about second chances and small-town love. I'm already looking forward to the next book and learning more about the other characters!
Silo Bay has taken a piece of my heart, and it always will.
Quote(s)
"Scars don’t only mark what broke us. Sometimes, they prove we survived it.”
June 23, 2026
I received an ARC through The Smuthood Inc, however my views are my own.
Can I just say angst central?? The amount of times I shed a tear or full-blown cried during certain scenes...
The book explores the fragility between Jett and Wren as they reunite, and we get to understand how their separation affected the pair. I enjoyed how no parts of their history, both shared and separate, were skimped and how it simply added to their layers. I don't think I have read a second chance as angsty and well-written as this one.
It took a while for me to warm up to Wren, however as the book progressed, and we got to uncover more about her, I couldn't help but empathise and root for her. I found her to be brave and resilient, especially as she carried her scars quietly until the scars were too protruding not to be noticed by another.
Whereas Jett, oh my DAYS! What a man! (the ending of Chapter 13 onwards? God, I need him!) With his own scars, he still manages to be strong and just. Recognising pain in Wren, but never pushing; holding her when needed and being completely there throughout it all. It was hard not to love Jett.
Overall, I am impressed with the depth and plot of this book. I especially loved the touch of "The Bay Buzz", adding its own charm (small-towns, am I right??) to the story.
I rarely think books are 5 stars, however TSOY is very deserving of this rating. It is definitely within the top reads for me this year.
This is the first book I have read by the author and I will definitely be going back to read her past and future works.
Can I just say angst central?? The amount of times I shed a tear or full-blown cried during certain scenes...
The book explores the fragility between Jett and Wren as they reunite, and we get to understand how their separation affected the pair. I enjoyed how no parts of their history, both shared and separate, were skimped and how it simply added to their layers. I don't think I have read a second chance as angsty and well-written as this one.
It took a while for me to warm up to Wren, however as the book progressed, and we got to uncover more about her, I couldn't help but empathise and root for her. I found her to be brave and resilient, especially as she carried her scars quietly until the scars were too protruding not to be noticed by another.
Whereas Jett, oh my DAYS! What a man! (the ending of Chapter 13 onwards? God, I need him!) With his own scars, he still manages to be strong and just. Recognising pain in Wren, but never pushing; holding her when needed and being completely there throughout it all. It was hard not to love Jett.
Overall, I am impressed with the depth and plot of this book. I especially loved the touch of "The Bay Buzz", adding its own charm (small-towns, am I right??) to the story.
I rarely think books are 5 stars, however TSOY is very deserving of this rating. It is definitely within the top reads for me this year.
This is the first book I have read by the author and I will definitely be going back to read her past and future works.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me in an absolute chokehold and I could not put it down, I read it in 1 day!
Second chance romances are generally an emotional read for me, especially with the flashbacks, but this one was next level! I can count on one hand the amount of books that have made me sob and this one takes the cake!
Wren and Jett had such undeniable chemistry and unresolved feelings, the angst and tension was pouring off the page. My anxiety was at an all time high!
They have a history so deep-rooted in everything they are, but one night of poor decisions tears them apart with such heartbreaking repercussions. A decade later and they are both back in their hometown. Wren has walked away from her reality tv career and an abusive fiancé and she’s forced to face the past and reopen old wounds to heal and gain peace.
Jett has been hardened by his time in the military, but soon realises if he wants any chance with Wren, he’ll have to share some truths and process some difficult revelations.
Wren and Jett slowly let their walls down and rebuild the trust they once had for each other and they hold tight to what matters. Jett would burn the world down for Wren.
I laughed, I sobbed and I swooned over this book. It was beautifully written and had such emotional depth that it will take me a while to get over this one.
Thank you to Alexis Buxton and Smuthood for the Advance Copy.
Second chance romances are generally an emotional read for me, especially with the flashbacks, but this one was next level! I can count on one hand the amount of books that have made me sob and this one takes the cake!
Wren and Jett had such undeniable chemistry and unresolved feelings, the angst and tension was pouring off the page. My anxiety was at an all time high!
They have a history so deep-rooted in everything they are, but one night of poor decisions tears them apart with such heartbreaking repercussions. A decade later and they are both back in their hometown. Wren has walked away from her reality tv career and an abusive fiancé and she’s forced to face the past and reopen old wounds to heal and gain peace.
Jett has been hardened by his time in the military, but soon realises if he wants any chance with Wren, he’ll have to share some truths and process some difficult revelations.
Wren and Jett slowly let their walls down and rebuild the trust they once had for each other and they hold tight to what matters. Jett would burn the world down for Wren.
I laughed, I sobbed and I swooned over this book. It was beautifully written and had such emotional depth that it will take me a while to get over this one.
Thank you to Alexis Buxton and Smuthood for the Advance Copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way. 😭💔✨ The Scars of Yesterday wasn't just a story—it felt like a journey through grief, healing, forgiveness, and learning how to move forward when the weight of the past refuses to let go.
I cried. A LOT. There were moments when I had to put my Kindle down because the emotions hit so hard. Alexis Buxton created characters whose pain felt so real that I couldn't help but experience every heartbreak, every setback, and every hard-earned victory right alongside them.
What impressed me most was how beautifully the healing arc unfolded. This wasn't a quick fix or an overnight transformation. The emotional growth felt authentic, messy, and incredibly rewarding. Watching these characters confront their past wounds and slowly find hope again made this story unforgettable.
And can we talk about the romantic suspense? 👏 The suspense elements were woven seamlessly into the storyline, adding tension and intrigue without ever overshadowing the emotional depth of the romance. Every twist kept me invested, while the romance remained the heart of the story. The balance between danger, healing, and love was executed perfectly.
If you love emotional romances that make you cry, heal, and keep you on the edge of your seat, this one deserves a spot on your TBR immediately.
I cried. A LOT. There were moments when I had to put my Kindle down because the emotions hit so hard. Alexis Buxton created characters whose pain felt so real that I couldn't help but experience every heartbreak, every setback, and every hard-earned victory right alongside them.
What impressed me most was how beautifully the healing arc unfolded. This wasn't a quick fix or an overnight transformation. The emotional growth felt authentic, messy, and incredibly rewarding. Watching these characters confront their past wounds and slowly find hope again made this story unforgettable.
And can we talk about the romantic suspense? 👏 The suspense elements were woven seamlessly into the storyline, adding tension and intrigue without ever overshadowing the emotional depth of the romance. Every twist kept me invested, while the romance remained the heart of the story. The balance between danger, healing, and love was executed perfectly.
If you love emotional romances that make you cry, heal, and keep you on the edge of your seat, this one deserves a spot on your TBR immediately.
June 18, 2026
This book had me in a chokehold from the moment i opened up my computer and started reading months ago. The journey to Wren and Jett’s HEA was an emotional rollercoaster andddd i loved every minute of it. These two have been in love with each other since they were kids, but circumstances and life tore them apart for years. The pain and the hurt is very much there, but so is the chemistry and the feelings they’ve always felt for one another. I loved these two so much. Wren is real, and messy and chaotic at times, but she deserved every bit of her happy after the battles she went through. And Jett. JETT F’ING RIGGSBY. This man. Ten years of celibacy because he knew his heart belonged to one woman? That should be the review right there. The mental health rep and the character growth between the two of them was incredible. Dealing with their own regrets and traumas and griefs, while also helping the other through theirs. Honestly, so beautiful. Add in a little bit of romantic suspense haunting Wren for her past and you’re bound to eat this one up.
Thank you to Alexis for the opportunity to beta read for you! I cannot wait for what’s to come with this series.
read if you love:
second chance, romantic suspense, military, mental health rep, slow burn, emotion and angst, small town, reality tv star x farmer, who hurt you?
Thank you to Alexis for the opportunity to beta read for you! I cannot wait for what’s to come with this series.
read if you love:
second chance, romantic suspense, military, mental health rep, slow burn, emotion and angst, small town, reality tv star x farmer, who hurt you?
June 18, 2026
This book feels like heartache, betrayal, hope, and redemption through both the small moments and the grand catalysts. It made me reflect on my own life and the fork-in-the-road decisions that rippled through my future to bring me to my current place in life. There are moments, in this story, woven with purposeful nostalgia; insightful looks into what could have been, but never will.
Wren has just made her escape from LA and an abusive fiance. She's landed in her hometown, a place that feels both familiar and distant since she left 9 years ago. It forces her to confront her past and the man who broke her heart when he left her without explanation.
Jett never stopped loving Wren, but he feels betrayed by her absence from their town. Now, an army veteran of two tours of duty, he has his own scars and baggage. When they run into each other, old embers spark to life, but the cuts run deep and neither knows how to salvage the wreckage of their past.
This book is something you'll want to take your time with. The story is heavy, but the redemption arc is worth it. If you need a good cry, there are parts that will wreck you, but also parts that will restore you.
Tropes
Second chance
Friends to lovers
Miscommunication
It's always been you
Secret tattoos
Stalker/abusive ex
Redemption arc
Wren has just made her escape from LA and an abusive fiance. She's landed in her hometown, a place that feels both familiar and distant since she left 9 years ago. It forces her to confront her past and the man who broke her heart when he left her without explanation.
Jett never stopped loving Wren, but he feels betrayed by her absence from their town. Now, an army veteran of two tours of duty, he has his own scars and baggage. When they run into each other, old embers spark to life, but the cuts run deep and neither knows how to salvage the wreckage of their past.
This book is something you'll want to take your time with. The story is heavy, but the redemption arc is worth it. If you need a good cry, there are parts that will wreck you, but also parts that will restore you.
Tropes
Second chance
Friends to lovers
Miscommunication
It's always been you
Secret tattoos
Stalker/abusive ex
Redemption arc
June 19, 2026
I’m not going to lie, when I saw the massive list of trigger warnings at the beginning of this book, I almost decided not to read it. But then I looked at the playlist and knew I had to give it a try. And man oh man am I so glad I did! Because my dang heart 🥹.
I love me a good childhood best friends turn high school sweethearts story whose relationship gets thrown a major curveball and they end up spending a few years apart before reuniting. But the pure heartbreak and hell both Jett & Wren went through in those years they spent apart was agonizing.
But watching them come back together and get used to each other again, that was beautiful. The build up to finally hearing both of their stories- what happened to Wren in LA and what Jett went through overseas- was excruciating. We knew bits and pieces, enough to probably figure it out on our own, but I was DYING for the chapter where everything came out. Where they laid everything on the table and then chose each other anyway. And when that happened!? MY HEART SHATTERED. I had tears rolling down my face to read the very detailed and vivid truth of what Wren went through. No one should ever have to endure what that poor girl did.
Their happily ever after wasn’t easy, but man was it beautiful! Oh and the spice? Off the dang charts. Man I love me a “it’s only been you” type of romance, especially when it comes from the MMC.
I love me a good childhood best friends turn high school sweethearts story whose relationship gets thrown a major curveball and they end up spending a few years apart before reuniting. But the pure heartbreak and hell both Jett & Wren went through in those years they spent apart was agonizing.
But watching them come back together and get used to each other again, that was beautiful. The build up to finally hearing both of their stories- what happened to Wren in LA and what Jett went through overseas- was excruciating. We knew bits and pieces, enough to probably figure it out on our own, but I was DYING for the chapter where everything came out. Where they laid everything on the table and then chose each other anyway. And when that happened!? MY HEART SHATTERED. I had tears rolling down my face to read the very detailed and vivid truth of what Wren went through. No one should ever have to endure what that poor girl did.
Their happily ever after wasn’t easy, but man was it beautiful! Oh and the spice? Off the dang charts. Man I love me a “it’s only been you” type of romance, especially when it comes from the MMC.
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