Buried Scars

by Kristi Copeland

𝙆𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙙𝙮

The scars of domestic abuse are firmly buried in my past, but I am reminded of how delicate life is when I meet Vanessa. On the few occasions she and I have spent time together, she hints that her marriage is unstable. I recognize the warning signs and ask our girls group to keep their eyes open for a chance to gain her trust.

My fiercely protective hero, Jake, stands by my side as I drive to save others in Talkeetna who find themselves trapped in situations similar to my own horrid past. Ready to confront any threat lurking in the shadows of Denali, I vow to break the cycle of abuse.

I’ll do anything to save my friends. Anything.

𝗩𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮

Hidden in plain sight, I work diligently to conceal my bruises from the community. My husband has made it painfully clear that I will never escape his grip. Guilt from my twin sister passing away caused me to lose hope that I would ever really be happy. Reminders of her linger and remind me to find my strength.

Running the sled dog tour company allows me to connect with local women, which lights a flicker of possibility that I’ll make friends one day. Kennedy has invited me into her world; her kindness is like a lifeline. I’m afraid if I reveal my truth, though, I may lose everything I’ve worked so hard to accomplish.

The truth hurts, but so is being pummeled into submission.

230 pages, ebook

Published March 24, 2026

About the author

This author is also published under Brooke Lyn.

Everywhere I look, I see someone begging me to write about them. Even my husband’s dreams inspire ideas about new books! My critters each deserve their own book and will probably one day get one!

Join me as I create scenarios that could happen to anyone… and probably have. Maybe me, maybe you.

Reviews

[Tanya S · Rating 1 out of 5]

I received Buried Scars by Kristi Copeland as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. I made it to page 57 and ultimately couldn’t continue. In full transparency, I have not read the two preceding books in the series, so that may have impacted my experience. However, even taking that into account, I struggled to connect with the story.

I found the character development to be lacking in depth, which made it difficult to feel invested in anyone or their journey. The narrative also jumped between perspectives very frequently, but without a clear pattern or purpose. Instead of adding dimension, it created confusion and disrupted the flow of the story.

From a structural and grammatical standpoint, the writing felt more aligned with an older middle-grade or very young adult audience, while the subject matter itself is clearly intended for adults. That mismatch made it harder for me to fully engage with the tone of the book.

Overall, this may simply come down to personal preference. I tend to gravitate toward stories with more layered plots and deeply developed characters. For me, this felt disconnected—almost like several separate storylines rather than one cohesive narrative.

While this book wasn’t for me, other readers who are already invested in the series or who enjoy a faster-paced, multi-POV style may have a different experience.

[Kristy Horstman · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 Stars! This series is one that grabbed my heart right away and I was invested in Kennedy and all that she crossed paths with. Book 3 is based in Talkeetna, AK and that is a special place where people are accepted and loved where they are and they take care of one another in their small town. Winters in Alaska, especially outside of the city, are lonely and hard; this series shows a glimpse of how hard it is for those struggling with mental health issues. Vanessa is married to Spencer, who is mentally and physically abusive to her. The girls group recognized that and surrounded her, through all the twists and turns this story takes. I want to know more about how the residents of Talkeetna are doing after the story ends. I’m so glad I was chosen to read the ARC (advanced reader copy) of this story and look forward to reading Kristi Copeland’s future work too. This would have been a 5 star read for me except just a couple things (LITTLE things) but they are spoilers so I won’t say them :) Excellent read!

[Sarah Frederick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forewarning up front, this book took a deep dive into DV. Please keep that in mind going into this book. Buried Scars is book 3 the its series. I had the pleasure of reading it recently. I have not read the first 2. This was actually quite a step outside my usual reads and I wasnt disappointed. I did feel like there were things I was missing out on by not having read the 1st 2 books but on the whole most things were explained well enough it can definitely be read on its own. Kennedy is such a strong woman and advocate. I love how she did everything she could to help the women of her little town. There were points were the story was very much disjointed. Events didnt seem like they were happening in order. It felt like a character had a huge personality shift without any real growth to get to that point. I am kind of disappointed by the ending honestly. I look forward to revisiting these characters in their early stages and learning more about what shaped them to this point.

[Melissa Gringo242424 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vanessa is living with a secret she thinks her friends don’t know about. Her husband Spencer is an abusive piece of crap. He is possessive, jealous and controlling. He allows her a few friends although she’s “punished” after she visits them. Kennedy. has been in Vanessa’s shoes. Her friend Jake saved her life but lost several years of his doing so. A story of friendship, learning to have strength and courage. Set in Alaska. Author details the customs and traditions well. Really enjoyed this book. If domestic violence triggers you, don’t read it, it’s not for you. Otherwise a story of overcoming trauma and learning to stand on your own. My only negative is there are a lot of characters and at times it was a bit overwhelming remembering how everyone fit together. Still a very enjoyable read.

I received this ARC free from the author for my honest review.

[Liz Scribner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes when you read series, each book can lose meaning and storylines fall apart. That is not the case for this series and these books. Being a victim of spousal abuse and knowing how hard leaving can be, this book hit home. It tugged at all of my heart strings. I felt so much empathy for Vanessa. I loved the portrayal of how one small group of women could do so much and sometimes it just takes 1 person to see you and help you to be able to move forward and get away from the abuse. I am broken hearted at the ending and losing the person who became like a friend through words, but it was written so beautifully that I cant be upset.
This book was written with so much passion and love. You can feel it while reading. I will recommend all day everyday.

[Harmony E. Jacobs · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a pre-published copy of the book Buried Scars from Kristi Copeland and I have to confess I was extremely excited about this book based off the plot. Women rescuing other women from a domestic abusive situation. Me being a victim of an abusive environment the plot really pulled at my heartstrings. But unfortunately this book wasn’t what I expected it to be. I don’t know how to say this but the way the paragraphs were structured and the different characters perspectives all mushed together it was kinda hard to read without immediately becoming confused. I do believe the plot itself shows promise but it needs some work to get it to that level.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving and suspenseful story about domestic abuse and surviving.

Kennedy befriends Vanessa who has a similar situation of domestic abuse and Kennedy is trying to help her with the help of Jake a friend.

Growing their relationship is slow going with Vanessa and Kennedy. Wanting so much and not feeling worthy is a huge problem for Vanessa and Kennedy with the help of Jake are helping her confidence.

Danger and a different take on relationships and this book sure took these characters on a healing journey.

So well done. I very much enjoyed the whole premise of the plot. A great read!

[Nancie Blume · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional

This book is a powerful, emotional read. It's a heavy story about abuse, survival, and justice - definitely check trigger warnings. The portrayal of domestic violence and the strength of friendships is raw and real. Vanessa's journey is heartbreaking, but ultimately hopeful. The writing is beautiful and passionate - you'll feel the emotions. Though the ending is heart-wrenching, it's a testament to the story's impact. Highly recommend, but be prepared for a emotional ride.

[Mandy Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Buried Scars by Kristi Copeland completely wrecked me in the best way. This book is such an emotional roller coaster! I felt angry, heartbroken, and hopeful all at once. 😩
It’s a very heavy, and powerful story about abuse, survival, and the strength of friendship, so definitely check trigger warnings. Vanessa’s journey is raw and heartbreaking, but also incredibly inspiring.
The writing is beautiful and full of so much emotion! Even though the ending shattered me, I truly enjoyed this one.
Highly recommend!! Just be ready to feel everything. 💔🥺

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is captivating! You can feel the part of each character as the story unfolds. Jake finally gets what he deserves!! The book keeps you hanging on for more as each chapter unfolds. The end caught me surprise!! NOT what I was expecting at all! Through all the twists and turns this book is one of determination, strength, loyalty, overcoming, friendship, love, and that family is not always blood! It will have you on the edge of your seat!

Trigger Warning: physical and mental abuse

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book, this is my first read from this author and I will definitely read her books again. I was a tad bit lost when i first started but i also didn't read the previous books, so that was my fault. I did catch up though fairly quick. I love how these friends from a super small town in Alaska band together and make sure each is taken care of, and each feel like they have someone to lean on.

[Chris Bauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vanessa is one of several women in small town Alaska, who are abused by their significant other. Her husband, Spencer, is brutal, and Vanessa knows if she talks back, there will be hell to pay for it.
But with the help of the other ladies, she finds her way.

This book has trauma and triggers, so if these are difficult subjects for you, please don't open the book.

[Tiffany Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg. Another heartbreaker in this series. I’m so glad the author is taking the time to write these very relatable stories. These stories tell a lot of women, and maybe some guys, that it’s ok to speak out, lean on your friends, and know that you’re not alone. I was extremely saddened by the side character in this book. Definitely a must read.

[Carrie D. Krause · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Scars series is back and I’m so here for it! Vanessa, a deep person with a difficult past, takes care of sled dogs and dreams of buying the business someday. She’s helped by her husband… or could she do better without him? I loved how this community came together to support one another and it was wonderful how Kennedy welcomed Jake home after new evidence exonerated him.

[Gina Wooldridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story and the plot it went to other characters but I got used to the authors style and it flowed after that. It has you wanting to smack Vanessa at times and others you see how her mental abuse is worse than any physical abuse. All in all it was a good story and I’d read this author again.

[Megan Somers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kennedy’s story was a great addition to this series. The book was gripping from the very beginning. It didn’t disappoint! The twists and turns were never ending but the story behind them even more heartfelt. A definite must read.

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

From start to finish, this was a great story of abuse and survival. Being strong and knowing there’s a way out. This isn’t an easy story to read. It’s not all rainbows and sunshine. But it does grab your heart on an emotional level. Such an amazing story. Well written with a beautiful depth.

[Jean Tighe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great set of books

I loved all the books. I felt i knew the women and characters. I just really wished it didn't end the way it did. I wanted Jake and Kennedy to have that good life.

[Heather Samples · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entire series was amazing and sends a great message for those who are dealing with domestic violence. I highly recommend these series but definitely recommend starting from the beginning.

[Julie Buckberry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark, emotional, and heavy at times, but a powerful story about abuse, survival, and justice. Definitely check trigger warnings, especially for animal harm.

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want to be wrecked in a really good way, then I have found your next read. Copeland has really done a great job with this series. I can't wait to read her next masterpiece.