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Scars of Mortals
Seth
We were high school sweethearts. I protected her, always.
Until one night changed everything.
My sister. Her best friend. Gone.
Grief swallowed me whole, and I did the only thing I could, I left.
Now, years later she’s back, like nothing’s changed.
But she’s with him.
I should walk away.
But I’ve never been good at following the rules.
Abigail
Seth was my first love. My safe place.
Until one night everything shattered.
No goodbye. No explanation. Just silence.
Now, years later, the past we buried is rising like a storm.
And Seth? He wants me back.
I made a mistake and no matter what I do, someone is going to get hurt.
Even if it’s me.
We were high school sweethearts. I protected her, always.
Until one night changed everything.
My sister. Her best friend. Gone.
Grief swallowed me whole, and I did the only thing I could, I left.
Now, years later she’s back, like nothing’s changed.
But she’s with him.
I should walk away.
But I’ve never been good at following the rules.
Abigail
Seth was my first love. My safe place.
Until one night everything shattered.
No goodbye. No explanation. Just silence.
Now, years later, the past we buried is rising like a storm.
And Seth? He wants me back.
I made a mistake and no matter what I do, someone is going to get hurt.
Even if it’s me.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Lynise Reid
3 books34 followersLynise writes sports romance with heart, heat, and a whole lot of banter. She’s the author behind the Gods of Campus series, where college athletes collide with big emotions, bad decisions, and the kind of love that doesn’t play fair.
She lives in Australia with her husband and three kids, juggling family life, full-time work, and late-night writing.
She lives in Australia with her husband and three kids, juggling family life, full-time work, and late-night writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 21, 2026
We return to the Gods Of Campus series with Scars Of Mortals and it truly didn’t disappoint! This heartbreaking yet beautiful story takes you on a wave of emotions as two souls heal after being dealt with unimaginable trauma. Seth and Abigail are childhood friends, first loves until a death of a loved ones separates them due to grief. There is nothing better than a bad boy playboy trying his hardest to get back his first love. There are some heavy tropes so please check like cheating which personally I’m not a fan of but it did add to the drama and angst of the story. Truly the way Lynise writes keeps you invested from the first page. I adored all the returning characters and I love Sam and Shelby. I would personally read the first two books in the series to get the full backstory and would highly recommend this one.
I received a complementary copy from Grey’s Promotions.
I received a complementary copy from Grey’s Promotions.
June 30, 2026
4.5 stars
My first book by this author, but not my last I will be going back and reading her previous books. This book not only hooked me in but became an obsession. Is it an easy read, no. Abigail and Seth have a heartbreaking story, and I needed answers.
I just want to give these two a hug, life is not kind to either in their youth. Beginning as childhood friends, neighbors, and eventually more. The loss of a loved one derails any forward progress as when Abigail needed Seth, he takes off to deal with his own grief.
Grief is handled differently and these two souls are hanging one the best they know how. But two years later they are in each other’s orbit, and Seth is now determined to make Abigail his.
I took a chance on this book as I am not a huge fan of some of the tropes, I am glad I did. This book has some heavy topics, and I recommend checking the warnings. I felt everything was needed as some topics added to the angst of the storyline. I am still thinking about this book days later, and this usually means a reread is in the future.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
My first book by this author, but not my last I will be going back and reading her previous books. This book not only hooked me in but became an obsession. Is it an easy read, no. Abigail and Seth have a heartbreaking story, and I needed answers.
I just want to give these two a hug, life is not kind to either in their youth. Beginning as childhood friends, neighbors, and eventually more. The loss of a loved one derails any forward progress as when Abigail needed Seth, he takes off to deal with his own grief.
Grief is handled differently and these two souls are hanging one the best they know how. But two years later they are in each other’s orbit, and Seth is now determined to make Abigail his.
I took a chance on this book as I am not a huge fan of some of the tropes, I am glad I did. This book has some heavy topics, and I recommend checking the warnings. I felt everything was needed as some topics added to the angst of the storyline. I am still thinking about this book days later, and this usually means a reread is in the future.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 30, 2026
Seth + Abigail
People grieve differently. Seth left, Abigail didn't. They both lost the same person but in different ways. Abigail says a line in the book about not losing her because he left and it stuck. No amount of sorry is going to show Abigail how sorry Seth really is.
I will say that the college element really came through due to the events between Simon (Abigail's boyfriend) and Seth. & the choices made by Abigail. She was confused and really needed to make a decision. So bare in mind these characters are in college so their choices might frustrate you.
I really enjoyed this installment of the Gods of Campus because both characters dealt with the grief and Seth finally made a decision about sticking with one girl. These character arcs were so well written and the side characters were such a support to Abigail and Seth.
I cannot wait until the next installment.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
People grieve differently. Seth left, Abigail didn't. They both lost the same person but in different ways. Abigail says a line in the book about not losing her because he left and it stuck. No amount of sorry is going to show Abigail how sorry Seth really is.
I will say that the college element really came through due to the events between Simon (Abigail's boyfriend) and Seth. & the choices made by Abigail. She was confused and really needed to make a decision. So bare in mind these characters are in college so their choices might frustrate you.
I really enjoyed this installment of the Gods of Campus because both characters dealt with the grief and Seth finally made a decision about sticking with one girl. These character arcs were so well written and the side characters were such a support to Abigail and Seth.
I cannot wait until the next installment.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
July 13, 2026
I really thought this book had a lot of potential, but it just didn’t work for me.
I felt like everything between Abigail and Seth happened way too quickly. After everything that had happened and how long they had been apart, I expected a much slower build up between them. Instead, it felt like one moment they were estranged, and the next they were ready to be together. Abigail also seemed to forgive Seth much faster than I expected, and I would have loved to see more feelings and conversations between them.
The miscommunication throughout the story also wasn’t my favorite trope and ended up being more frustrating than emotional for me.
I did enjoy seeing both characters heal after everything that happened with Heather, and I think that part of the story had a lot of heart. I just wanted more development, more tension, and a stronger emotional feeling.
I felt like everything between Abigail and Seth happened way too quickly. After everything that had happened and how long they had been apart, I expected a much slower build up between them. Instead, it felt like one moment they were estranged, and the next they were ready to be together. Abigail also seemed to forgive Seth much faster than I expected, and I would have loved to see more feelings and conversations between them.
The miscommunication throughout the story also wasn’t my favorite trope and ended up being more frustrating than emotional for me.
I did enjoy seeing both characters heal after everything that happened with Heather, and I think that part of the story had a lot of heart. I just wanted more development, more tension, and a stronger emotional feeling.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Scars Of Mortals
By: Lynise Reid
I like to take notes, write random thoughts, and point out any errors (if found), my review is afterwards.
1. It’s good that’s there’s a trigger warning before the book begins. So, read the tw just to be safe!
2. I also like the playlist, especially Linkin Park!!
3. *Error*— Should be “accept” in this line. (“…I except the icepack…”) (pg. 11)
4. The throwback chapters shouldn’t be in italics since at the beginning of the chapter it has the age, indicating a throwback chapter.
5. *Error*— It should say “Christian’s” instead. (“…released from Christian grip.”) (pg. 22)
6. *Error*— Missing open quotations before the first I. (—I know, but I saw…”) (pg. 27)
7. These two paragraphs are lined up weird. They look like each line is a new paragraph with the indentation. (“I shake my head and let the comment slide. “Where is everyone?” (and then) “Randy and Rachel took Sam to the movies. Some Pixar kids’ thing.”) (pg. 36)
8. I love the besties banter with Abigail, Heather, and Julia in the lunchroom in a throwback chapter. It definitely gives me nostalgia from my teen years! Lynise Reed set the perfect vibe in that scene. It felt like I was right there with the girls!! 🥹😭
9. I adore the bond between Randy and Sam. Their relationship is so sweet. I enjoy it when an author has the side characters play an important role as well.
10. Is there a book about Shelby?! 😱 I neeeeed that!!
11. Chapter 19 with Seth and Heather broke my heart! 😭😭 I need a prequel so I can know Heather better! 🥺 I love the characters that are in this book!
12. This is such a pet peeve! Wayyy too many books use this exact line. It’s cringy! (“Nope,” I say, popping the ‘p’…”) (pg. 124)
13. I’m halfway finished and I absolutely love how Lynise Reid writes! The story flows smoothly and I love the bond between Abigail and Seth!
14. Omggg!! The way I just yelled out on page 161!! 🥺😭😭 Why you gotta play with my emotions like this?! 🥺
15. Fracture and break mean the same thing. So, saying a broken ___ and a fractured___ is the same thing. (pg. 164)
16. I absolutely adore Seth! He’s so loving, protective, and sweet. I’ve been rooting for him and Abigail from the beginning.
17. Ahh I love Seth even more lol. Son’s has been one of my favorite shows to binge watch over and over. (“He looks like he strolled off the set of Sons of Anarchy.”) (pg. 180)
18. I kinda figured what Walsh was going to tell everyone. 🩷
19. *Error*—Should say “peace” instead. (“Is that a piece offering?”) (pg. 282)
20. I must check out the other books in this series!
🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷
I love second chance romance novels, so when I read the blurb on this one it caught my attention right away. I truly enjoyed reading, “Scars of Mortals”! Although I hope the grey cover is just temporary since it doesn’t match the story. The title actually threw me off, I almost passed up reading about it since it implies that it deals with non mortals, but that’s not the case.
Seth and Abigail are childhood sweethearts, and the vibe between them is set early in the book, so I was rooting for them from the start.
Lynise Reid has created wonderful characters! They feel like a regular group of friends and as the reader, I’m right in the middle of everyone. The side characters are all interesting and I want to read about each of them!
The book was so easy to play in my mind, and that’s a must when I’m reading. It wasn’t just the characters. The setting, no matter if it was in a room or outside, I was able to see everything clearly.
I love how the author shows us the characters and area, instead of just telling. There were very minimal errors, just a couple that didn’t interfere with reading.
Lynise Reid has quickly became an author that I’ve added to my reading list! I love how she writes, the flow, the plot..just everything is great! This is a sweet romance that has a few sad moments. It made me laugh, cry, it shocked me. Ahh, I loved this one!! It’s absolutely worth reading!!
By: Lynise Reid
I like to take notes, write random thoughts, and point out any errors (if found), my review is afterwards.
1. It’s good that’s there’s a trigger warning before the book begins. So, read the tw just to be safe!
2. I also like the playlist, especially Linkin Park!!
3. *Error*— Should be “accept” in this line. (“…I except the icepack…”) (pg. 11)
4. The throwback chapters shouldn’t be in italics since at the beginning of the chapter it has the age, indicating a throwback chapter.
5. *Error*— It should say “Christian’s” instead. (“…released from Christian grip.”) (pg. 22)
6. *Error*— Missing open quotations before the first I. (—I know, but I saw…”) (pg. 27)
7. These two paragraphs are lined up weird. They look like each line is a new paragraph with the indentation. (“I shake my head and let the comment slide. “Where is everyone?” (and then) “Randy and Rachel took Sam to the movies. Some Pixar kids’ thing.”) (pg. 36)
8. I love the besties banter with Abigail, Heather, and Julia in the lunchroom in a throwback chapter. It definitely gives me nostalgia from my teen years! Lynise Reed set the perfect vibe in that scene. It felt like I was right there with the girls!! 🥹😭
9. I adore the bond between Randy and Sam. Their relationship is so sweet. I enjoy it when an author has the side characters play an important role as well.
10. Is there a book about Shelby?! 😱 I neeeeed that!!
11. Chapter 19 with Seth and Heather broke my heart! 😭😭 I need a prequel so I can know Heather better! 🥺 I love the characters that are in this book!
12. This is such a pet peeve! Wayyy too many books use this exact line. It’s cringy! (“Nope,” I say, popping the ‘p’…”) (pg. 124)
13. I’m halfway finished and I absolutely love how Lynise Reid writes! The story flows smoothly and I love the bond between Abigail and Seth!
14. Omggg!! The way I just yelled out on page 161!! 🥺😭😭 Why you gotta play with my emotions like this?! 🥺
15. Fracture and break mean the same thing. So, saying a broken ___ and a fractured___ is the same thing. (pg. 164)
16. I absolutely adore Seth! He’s so loving, protective, and sweet. I’ve been rooting for him and Abigail from the beginning.
17. Ahh I love Seth even more lol. Son’s has been one of my favorite shows to binge watch over and over. (“He looks like he strolled off the set of Sons of Anarchy.”) (pg. 180)
18. I kinda figured what Walsh was going to tell everyone. 🩷
19. *Error*—Should say “peace” instead. (“Is that a piece offering?”) (pg. 282)
20. I must check out the other books in this series!
🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷🫶🏻🩷
I love second chance romance novels, so when I read the blurb on this one it caught my attention right away. I truly enjoyed reading, “Scars of Mortals”! Although I hope the grey cover is just temporary since it doesn’t match the story. The title actually threw me off, I almost passed up reading about it since it implies that it deals with non mortals, but that’s not the case.
Seth and Abigail are childhood sweethearts, and the vibe between them is set early in the book, so I was rooting for them from the start.
Lynise Reid has created wonderful characters! They feel like a regular group of friends and as the reader, I’m right in the middle of everyone. The side characters are all interesting and I want to read about each of them!
The book was so easy to play in my mind, and that’s a must when I’m reading. It wasn’t just the characters. The setting, no matter if it was in a room or outside, I was able to see everything clearly.
I love how the author shows us the characters and area, instead of just telling. There were very minimal errors, just a couple that didn’t interfere with reading.
Lynise Reid has quickly became an author that I’ve added to my reading list! I love how she writes, the flow, the plot..just everything is great! This is a sweet romance that has a few sad moments. It made me laugh, cry, it shocked me. Ahh, I loved this one!! It’s absolutely worth reading!!
July 13, 2026
Lynise.... I am emotionally distraught. SO much happened in this book and I need more. I need happiness. This book made me feel everything. From being sad to angry to happy to giddy to bawling to shock to happy, I witnessed and experienced it all. Spoilers ahead and also a long revew (sorry!).
First of all, I love the friendship dynamic. I love how Christian, Randy, Walsh and Seth all support each other through everything and are not afraid to call each other out and give each other tough love. I love how Rachel, Sam and Shelby fit so perfectly in their dynamic and how they are all just one big family. I LOVE Shelby and Seth's friendship. I love that she sees past the persona that he puts up and forces him to get out of his head. God i just love them.
I had high hopes for this book and boy did it not disappoint. It was very much a slow burn second chance that had me squirming in my seat because I wanted them to get together so badly. Their chemistry sizzled through every interaction they had. God Seth was just so swoonworthy (an idiot, but swoonworthy). I LOVED his growth. I love how he apologized for his wrongdoings and tries everything to be back in good graces with Abigail. His growth from not wanting to commit to anyone to seeing his wrongs and correcting, made me so happy for him.
I also loved Abigail. I love how she had Seth wrapped around her finger (hehe). I LOVE that she stood up for herself and didn't just take the apology but had Seth grovel. I love that her happily ever after wasn't linear. It was super freaking messy but sometimes love is messy and I love how realistic it was in a sense that grief changes how you see the world. I do wish that they truly had a heart to heart about why Seth left and how that impacted both of their lives, but overall their story was great. It had great drama and the sideplots were sideplotting.
The only thing that I was a little meh about was the cheating. I do not condone nor will I ever. Like I wish they would have had the chemistry sizzle and just not had any cheating in there. The drama drama'd but I can't get behind cheating (Sorry!). I also feel so bad for Georgina. I need her to get her happily ever please and I need her and seth to remain friends!
LYNISE! That mid book shock made me bawl my eyes out. HOW COULD YOU! How could you break my heart so thoroughly. I will literally be thinking about this for the rest of my life. In my head, this never occured and I never experienced this pain. In my head, this is a telenovela where doubles are used and everyone ends up happy. I NEED THEM TO BE HAPPY. I NEED THEM TO BE TOGETHER!
Also, the other shock was Welsh and I CANNOT wait to get my hands on his book. Like please! He has been so mysterious since Randy's book where he was beat up. Like I NEED to know his story like I NEED my next breath.
Overall, 6 stars! I had a blast reading this book and also drained me emotionally. Lynise I don't think I'll ever forgive you :'(
First of all, I love the friendship dynamic. I love how Christian, Randy, Walsh and Seth all support each other through everything and are not afraid to call each other out and give each other tough love. I love how Rachel, Sam and Shelby fit so perfectly in their dynamic and how they are all just one big family. I LOVE Shelby and Seth's friendship. I love that she sees past the persona that he puts up and forces him to get out of his head. God i just love them.
I had high hopes for this book and boy did it not disappoint. It was very much a slow burn second chance that had me squirming in my seat because I wanted them to get together so badly. Their chemistry sizzled through every interaction they had. God Seth was just so swoonworthy (an idiot, but swoonworthy). I LOVED his growth. I love how he apologized for his wrongdoings and tries everything to be back in good graces with Abigail. His growth from not wanting to commit to anyone to seeing his wrongs and correcting, made me so happy for him.
I also loved Abigail. I love how she had Seth wrapped around her finger (hehe). I LOVE that she stood up for herself and didn't just take the apology but had Seth grovel. I love that her happily ever after wasn't linear. It was super freaking messy but sometimes love is messy and I love how realistic it was in a sense that grief changes how you see the world. I do wish that they truly had a heart to heart about why Seth left and how that impacted both of their lives, but overall their story was great. It had great drama and the sideplots were sideplotting.
The only thing that I was a little meh about was the cheating. I do not condone nor will I ever. Like I wish they would have had the chemistry sizzle and just not had any cheating in there. The drama drama'd but I can't get behind cheating (Sorry!). I also feel so bad for Georgina. I need her to get her happily ever please and I need her and seth to remain friends!
LYNISE! That mid book shock made me bawl my eyes out. HOW COULD YOU! How could you break my heart so thoroughly. I will literally be thinking about this for the rest of my life. In my head, this never occured and I never experienced this pain. In my head, this is a telenovela where doubles are used and everyone ends up happy. I NEED THEM TO BE HAPPY. I NEED THEM TO BE TOGETHER!
Also, the other shock was Welsh and I CANNOT wait to get my hands on his book. Like please! He has been so mysterious since Randy's book where he was beat up. Like I NEED to know his story like I NEED my next breath.
Overall, 6 stars! I had a blast reading this book and also drained me emotionally. Lynise I don't think I'll ever forgive you :'(
June 23, 2026
He left. She broke. I suffered. Thanks, Lynise.
4.5 ⭐ | 2.25 🌶️
There’s something particularly painful about a love story where the love never actually dies; it just gets buried beneath years of grief, silence, regret, and unanswered questions.
Scars of Mortals absolutely wrecked me.
Seth and Abigail’s story is the kind that sinks its claws into your heart from the very first chapter. These two shared everything growing up: first kisses, first love, first heartbreaks, first dreams. They were each other’s person… until tragedy shattered their world and Seth disappeared without so much as a goodbye.
Years later, their reunion is anything but simple.
The tension? Exquisite.
The angst? Top-tier.
The emotional damage? Immaculate.
What I loved most was how raw this story felt. Lynise Reid doesn’t just give us a second-chance romance; she gives us two people carrying years of hurt, guilt, longing, and unresolved feelings. Every interaction between Seth and Abigail feels loaded with history. You can feel the weight of everything they’ve lost and everything they still want.
And Seth…
Good lord, Seth.
This man has never truly moved on, and watching him fight for the woman he believes is still his was both swoon-worthy and heartbreaking. He’s determined, protective, frustrating, vulnerable, and completely obsessed in the way only a man hopelessly in love can be.
Abigail was equally compelling. Her pain felt real, her struggles understandable, and her internal conflict kept me emotionally invested from start to finish.
This book balances heartbreak and hope beautifully. One minute I was smiling at the tenderness between them, the next I was staring at a blank wall questioning my emotional stability. I laughed. I cried. I suffered. Exactly what I want from a romance.
Despite only having read book one in the God of Campus series so far, I was completely drawn into this story, and it has only made me more determined to finally pick up book two so I can be fully caught up before future releases.
If you love:
✨ Second-chance romance
✨ Childhood friends to lovers
✨ First-love-never-dies energy
✨ Emotional angst with a big heart
✨ Protective football players
✨ Stories that hurt before they heal
…then add this one to your TBR immediately.
A beautiful, emotional, gut-wrenching love story about grief, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the person who has always owned your heart.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Lynise Reid on this wonderful upcoming release (June 30th)!
4.5 ⭐ | 2.25 🌶️
There’s something particularly painful about a love story where the love never actually dies; it just gets buried beneath years of grief, silence, regret, and unanswered questions.
Scars of Mortals absolutely wrecked me.
Seth and Abigail’s story is the kind that sinks its claws into your heart from the very first chapter. These two shared everything growing up: first kisses, first love, first heartbreaks, first dreams. They were each other’s person… until tragedy shattered their world and Seth disappeared without so much as a goodbye.
Years later, their reunion is anything but simple.
The tension? Exquisite.
The angst? Top-tier.
The emotional damage? Immaculate.
What I loved most was how raw this story felt. Lynise Reid doesn’t just give us a second-chance romance; she gives us two people carrying years of hurt, guilt, longing, and unresolved feelings. Every interaction between Seth and Abigail feels loaded with history. You can feel the weight of everything they’ve lost and everything they still want.
And Seth…
Good lord, Seth.
This man has never truly moved on, and watching him fight for the woman he believes is still his was both swoon-worthy and heartbreaking. He’s determined, protective, frustrating, vulnerable, and completely obsessed in the way only a man hopelessly in love can be.
Abigail was equally compelling. Her pain felt real, her struggles understandable, and her internal conflict kept me emotionally invested from start to finish.
This book balances heartbreak and hope beautifully. One minute I was smiling at the tenderness between them, the next I was staring at a blank wall questioning my emotional stability. I laughed. I cried. I suffered. Exactly what I want from a romance.
Despite only having read book one in the God of Campus series so far, I was completely drawn into this story, and it has only made me more determined to finally pick up book two so I can be fully caught up before future releases.
If you love:
✨ Second-chance romance
✨ Childhood friends to lovers
✨ First-love-never-dies energy
✨ Emotional angst with a big heart
✨ Protective football players
✨ Stories that hurt before they heal
…then add this one to your TBR immediately.
A beautiful, emotional, gut-wrenching love story about grief, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the person who has always owned your heart.
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Lynise Reid on this wonderful upcoming release (June 30th)!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Some books just "click", and Scars of Mortals was one of them. I absolutely loved it! It was painful, but that's exactly why I loved it so much. It made me so emotional.
Seth and Abigail's journey is heartbreaking, emotional, and beautifully written. Their shared history, they've known each other since childhood and Abigail was his late sister's best friend, the grief and hurt they should have carried together while leaning on each other for support, the years of silence, and all the unresolved feelings between them made every interaction meaningful. They never stopped loving each other. He was her first everything!!! This book is pure emotion from the very first page, and the author does an incredible job of making you feel every bit of it. You can truly feel how deeply they loved each other and how much they were hurt. He just... left. He walked away when she needed him most, and when he needed her most, believing that running away would somehow make grief easier to bear.
Seth is a football player. He's brilliant (a genius, really), protective, loyal, vulnerable, and willing to fight to get back the woman he's never stopped loving, even if that meant her cheating on her boyfriend with him. Yes, he made the wrong choice, but everyone deals with grief differently, and life doesn't stop moving. He has that attitude that makes it impossible not to love him. Abigail's pain and inner conflict felt just as real. She tried to move forward with her life and built a relationship with someone who genuinely loved her. One detail that made me smile was how Seth had seriously forbidden everyone from getting involved with any girl named Abigail before seeing her again... only for his Abigail to suddenly walk back into his life.
I also loved the friend group we've already met. They truly feel like family, bringing warmth and humor that perfectly balance the heavier emotional moments.
For me, a great book is measured by how it makes me feel, and this one made me feel everything. It made me smile, broke my heart, and then slowly put it back together...
An emotional, heartfelt second-chance romance about grief, forgiveness, healing, and finding your way back to the person who has always owned your heart. Without a doubt, my favorite book in the series and an easy five-star read.
Seth and Abigail's journey is heartbreaking, emotional, and beautifully written. Their shared history, they've known each other since childhood and Abigail was his late sister's best friend, the grief and hurt they should have carried together while leaning on each other for support, the years of silence, and all the unresolved feelings between them made every interaction meaningful. They never stopped loving each other. He was her first everything!!! This book is pure emotion from the very first page, and the author does an incredible job of making you feel every bit of it. You can truly feel how deeply they loved each other and how much they were hurt. He just... left. He walked away when she needed him most, and when he needed her most, believing that running away would somehow make grief easier to bear.
Seth is a football player. He's brilliant (a genius, really), protective, loyal, vulnerable, and willing to fight to get back the woman he's never stopped loving, even if that meant her cheating on her boyfriend with him. Yes, he made the wrong choice, but everyone deals with grief differently, and life doesn't stop moving. He has that attitude that makes it impossible not to love him. Abigail's pain and inner conflict felt just as real. She tried to move forward with her life and built a relationship with someone who genuinely loved her. One detail that made me smile was how Seth had seriously forbidden everyone from getting involved with any girl named Abigail before seeing her again... only for his Abigail to suddenly walk back into his life.
I also loved the friend group we've already met. They truly feel like family, bringing warmth and humor that perfectly balance the heavier emotional moments.
For me, a great book is measured by how it makes me feel, and this one made me feel everything. It made me smile, broke my heart, and then slowly put it back together...
An emotional, heartfelt second-chance romance about grief, forgiveness, healing, and finding your way back to the person who has always owned your heart. Without a doubt, my favorite book in the series and an easy five-star read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Seth has a reputation as a playboy on campus, but once upon a time, he fell in love with the girl next door. When his sister, her best friend, was killed tragically, he ran away, and hadn’t seen her in years until they ran into each other on campus. But while he’s always considered her his end game, she isn’t so quick to forgive, and the boyfriend standing by her side makes things even more complicated.
Sixteen year old Abigail was devastated when she lost her best friend and boyfriend at the same time. Having pulled herself back together over the years, she started university and managed to avoid seeing Seth, all while being unable to go anywhere without hearing about his life and exploits on and off the football field. One year into a new relationship, Seth spots her on campus, and refuses to let her leave without hearing him out. After apologizing, he makes it clear that he wants her back, and won’t take no for an answer.
I received an early copy of this book from Grey’s Promotions and I absolutely loved it! The author has such a talent for telling her stories, that Seth was not a new character to me, and I was already invested long before I opened the book. Coming off as the tortured hero, we knew going in that there was something special about Abigail, but this book had my heart raw within the first 5 chapters. While I would have loved to hate Seth for the way he left Abigail years ago, knowing the grief he was going through made me more understanding, and I think once they were able to have a conversation, she couldn’t fault him for it either (as much as she would have loved to). I appreciated how this book didn’t have Abigail immediately jumping into a relationship with Seth, and they both had to do a lot of soul searching before it could even become a possibility. I loved seeing the vulnerable side of Seth that only she could bring out, and that she wasn’t afraid to make him worth for it, to prove that if she gave him a chance, he wouldn’t leave again. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions, with past and present grief tearing me apart, but also with so many sweet and tender moments, as well as the ones that had me laughing out loud. I can’t wait to get my hands on Walsh’s story next.
Sixteen year old Abigail was devastated when she lost her best friend and boyfriend at the same time. Having pulled herself back together over the years, she started university and managed to avoid seeing Seth, all while being unable to go anywhere without hearing about his life and exploits on and off the football field. One year into a new relationship, Seth spots her on campus, and refuses to let her leave without hearing him out. After apologizing, he makes it clear that he wants her back, and won’t take no for an answer.
I received an early copy of this book from Grey’s Promotions and I absolutely loved it! The author has such a talent for telling her stories, that Seth was not a new character to me, and I was already invested long before I opened the book. Coming off as the tortured hero, we knew going in that there was something special about Abigail, but this book had my heart raw within the first 5 chapters. While I would have loved to hate Seth for the way he left Abigail years ago, knowing the grief he was going through made me more understanding, and I think once they were able to have a conversation, she couldn’t fault him for it either (as much as she would have loved to). I appreciated how this book didn’t have Abigail immediately jumping into a relationship with Seth, and they both had to do a lot of soul searching before it could even become a possibility. I loved seeing the vulnerable side of Seth that only she could bring out, and that she wasn’t afraid to make him worth for it, to prove that if she gave him a chance, he wouldn’t leave again. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions, with past and present grief tearing me apart, but also with so many sweet and tender moments, as well as the ones that had me laughing out loud. I can’t wait to get my hands on Walsh’s story next.
July 10, 2026
They say first love never truly dies, but Scars of Mortals proves that sometimes it just gets buried under a couple of years of silence and grief.
Lynise Reid’s latest release is officially out, and even though I am dropping this review several days late, I am still completely stuck on this story. If you are obsessed with second-chance romances, childhood sweethearts, and the kind of angst that keeps you turning pages, you need to bump this to the top of your TBR.
The story follows Seth, a tatted, Harley-riding college football star who hides a mountain of vulnerability underneath a broody bad-boy exterior, and Abigail, his late sister’s best friend. Two years ago, a sudden tragedy shattered their world, and Seth did the only thing he knew how to do… he ran away, leaving Abigail behind with nothing but silence, even though he was her absolute first in everything. Now, they are forced back into each other's orbit on the same college campus. The catch… Abigail has spent two years piecing her life back together and finally has a boyfriend who genuinely cares for her. But the second Seth sees his "Bluebird" again… it is clear that he has zero intention of ever letting her go a second time.
What makes this book work so well is how realistic the college setting feels for their reunion. Lynise Reid does a great job showing that life does not just pause after a falling-out; people grow up, things get complicated, and trying to patch up a long silence is not a clean process. The characters are young and definitely make some messy, frustrating choices, especially as the love triangle adds a lot of sudden friction. But even with all the chaotic decisions, the history and underlying chemistry between Seth and Abigail are impossible to ignore, and it keeps you completely locked into seeing how they are going to figure things out.
This is a fantastic, engaging ride about forgiveness, found family, and the kind of connection that refuses to stay buried, no matter how much time or distance has passed.
A massive thank you to Lynise Reid for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Lynise Reid’s latest release is officially out, and even though I am dropping this review several days late, I am still completely stuck on this story. If you are obsessed with second-chance romances, childhood sweethearts, and the kind of angst that keeps you turning pages, you need to bump this to the top of your TBR.
The story follows Seth, a tatted, Harley-riding college football star who hides a mountain of vulnerability underneath a broody bad-boy exterior, and Abigail, his late sister’s best friend. Two years ago, a sudden tragedy shattered their world, and Seth did the only thing he knew how to do… he ran away, leaving Abigail behind with nothing but silence, even though he was her absolute first in everything. Now, they are forced back into each other's orbit on the same college campus. The catch… Abigail has spent two years piecing her life back together and finally has a boyfriend who genuinely cares for her. But the second Seth sees his "Bluebird" again… it is clear that he has zero intention of ever letting her go a second time.
What makes this book work so well is how realistic the college setting feels for their reunion. Lynise Reid does a great job showing that life does not just pause after a falling-out; people grow up, things get complicated, and trying to patch up a long silence is not a clean process. The characters are young and definitely make some messy, frustrating choices, especially as the love triangle adds a lot of sudden friction. But even with all the chaotic decisions, the history and underlying chemistry between Seth and Abigail are impossible to ignore, and it keeps you completely locked into seeing how they are going to figure things out.
This is a fantastic, engaging ride about forgiveness, found family, and the kind of connection that refuses to stay buried, no matter how much time or distance has passed.
A massive thank you to Lynise Reid for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy
ARC REVIEW: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 🌶️🌶️
This was easily my favorite book in the series so far.
Going into this one, I already knew Seth was probably going to be my favorite. A tattooed football star who rides a motorcycle, is secretly a genius, and is heading to medical school? Say less.
Enter Abigail, his sister’s best friend, and suddenly we’re getting second-chance romance perfection.
After the death of his sister, Seth leaves without a word, abandoning both Abigail and his family as he tries to outrun his grief. Unsurprisingly, that doesn’t work very well. Two years later, Abigail is on campus doing her best to move on while avoiding the past, but some people are impossible to forget.
What I loved most about this book was the emotional depth. While the first two books leaned more heavily into the romance, this one explored grief, loss, forgiveness, and healing in a way that felt much more impactful. Seth and Abigail’s history gave their relationship so much weight, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.
I also loved seeing the previous couples again and watching the friend group continue to grow. The found family aspect of this series remains one of its strongest elements.
My only real criticism was the cheating storyline. It wasn’t between Seth and Abigail, but it played a larger role than I would have preferred and felt a little drawn out at times.
That said, this book packed much more of an emotional punch than I expected. There were several revelations throughout the story and one heartbreaking moment involving a side character that completely caught me off guard.
Overall, this was my favorite book in the series so far, and it left me excited to see where the Gods of Campus series goes next.
Read this if you love:
🏈 Football romance
🖤 Second-chance romance
👫 Sister’s best friend
🏍️ Motorcycle-riding MMCs
😭 Emotional healing journeys
✨ Found family
This was easily my favorite book in the series so far.
Going into this one, I already knew Seth was probably going to be my favorite. A tattooed football star who rides a motorcycle, is secretly a genius, and is heading to medical school? Say less.
Enter Abigail, his sister’s best friend, and suddenly we’re getting second-chance romance perfection.
After the death of his sister, Seth leaves without a word, abandoning both Abigail and his family as he tries to outrun his grief. Unsurprisingly, that doesn’t work very well. Two years later, Abigail is on campus doing her best to move on while avoiding the past, but some people are impossible to forget.
What I loved most about this book was the emotional depth. While the first two books leaned more heavily into the romance, this one explored grief, loss, forgiveness, and healing in a way that felt much more impactful. Seth and Abigail’s history gave their relationship so much weight, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.
I also loved seeing the previous couples again and watching the friend group continue to grow. The found family aspect of this series remains one of its strongest elements.
My only real criticism was the cheating storyline. It wasn’t between Seth and Abigail, but it played a larger role than I would have preferred and felt a little drawn out at times.
That said, this book packed much more of an emotional punch than I expected. There were several revelations throughout the story and one heartbreaking moment involving a side character that completely caught me off guard.
Overall, this was my favorite book in the series so far, and it left me excited to see where the Gods of Campus series goes next.
Read this if you love:
🏈 Football romance
🖤 Second-chance romance
👫 Sister’s best friend
🏍️ Motorcycle-riding MMCs
😭 Emotional healing journeys
✨ Found family
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC Review✨
Scars of Mortals
(Book 3 in the Gods of Campus Series)
By: Lynise Reid
“Who is she?”
“She was my sister’s best friend.”
“I know that. But who was she to you?”“Everything.”
“I just told the guy to copy everything you drew that day. I did change the color of the bluebird slightly because I wanted it to match your eyes,” he says.
“You got it to match the color of my eyes?” “When I looked at it, I saw you—my bluebird, the color in my life.”
“You ready for me now?”
“I’ve been ready for you for years.”
“I swear to God, Abigail, it’s just you I want. You never have to worry about anyone else. I’ve lived having you, and I’ve lived losing you—and I can’t lose you again. I won’t let that happen. I want you. Forever. Just you.”
I am obsessed with Seth and Abigail!! Their story has you hooked from the very beginning and will keep your attention for this whole wild ride! They will break your heart, again and again and by the end you will say thank you! Seth is running from his past and all the emotions and guilt it holds. That is until he comes face to face with the past and his future. Abigail has always been the girl, the girl Seth hurt, and loved. And we follow these two as they navigate the hurt and what the future could look like. I love college romances and this is a perfectly done second chance college romance! I love them so much! Congratulations Lynise, what a banger you have on your hands!
Thank you so much to Lynise for letting me Beta Read this and Greys Promotions for the ARC Copy!
Tropes:
Second Chance
Always Been You
College Football Romance
Childhood Friends to Lovers
Love Triangle
Tragic Past
Spice starts at: 11%
Spice: 2.5/4
Stars: 5/5
Available on June 30th
Scars of Mortals
(Book 3 in the Gods of Campus Series)
By: Lynise Reid
“Who is she?”
“She was my sister’s best friend.”
“I know that. But who was she to you?”“Everything.”
“I just told the guy to copy everything you drew that day. I did change the color of the bluebird slightly because I wanted it to match your eyes,” he says.
“You got it to match the color of my eyes?” “When I looked at it, I saw you—my bluebird, the color in my life.”
“You ready for me now?”
“I’ve been ready for you for years.”
“I swear to God, Abigail, it’s just you I want. You never have to worry about anyone else. I’ve lived having you, and I’ve lived losing you—and I can’t lose you again. I won’t let that happen. I want you. Forever. Just you.”
I am obsessed with Seth and Abigail!! Their story has you hooked from the very beginning and will keep your attention for this whole wild ride! They will break your heart, again and again and by the end you will say thank you! Seth is running from his past and all the emotions and guilt it holds. That is until he comes face to face with the past and his future. Abigail has always been the girl, the girl Seth hurt, and loved. And we follow these two as they navigate the hurt and what the future could look like. I love college romances and this is a perfectly done second chance college romance! I love them so much! Congratulations Lynise, what a banger you have on your hands!
Thank you so much to Lynise for letting me Beta Read this and Greys Promotions for the ARC Copy!
Tropes:
Second Chance
Always Been You
College Football Romance
Childhood Friends to Lovers
Love Triangle
Tragic Past
Spice starts at: 11%
Spice: 2.5/4
Stars: 5/5
Available on June 30th
July 11, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
Ohhh Seth...I do love him. I have since book 1, even before he saved the day, but I was anxiously awaiting his book since I first met him. And to see the "Abigail Ban" come full circle was great too.
Second Chance
Football College Romance
Secret Tattoo
Love Triangle
Best Friends Brother
Childhood friends to lovers
All that being said, this book did not give the goods, like I was hoping it would. I love a good second chance romance and normally they hold a lot of emotional push and pull which I can totally get behind.
I mean give me a book that will leave me weeping into my pillow, or make me want to drive off of a cliff because my therapy bills are too high. I'm serious I can take all the emotions and then some. But this just didn't hit for me the way I was hoping.
The whole "I left you right after my sister died and left you alone thing"......yeah that is too messed up for even my brain to accept love with one another after that. There are some things that you can't come back from. I mean you can murder my brother or my mother and I will still forgive you, or end all those who have upset me, or torture people for fun or gods know what else....but leaving at a time like this the way he did.....nope.
I will say though....Seth has a tattoo...and that tattoo is the reason this is a 3.5 star instead of a 2.5/3 star review.
I still love this series and hold a special place in my heart for it but this book is not my top out of them by far.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and greys promotion and this is my honest review.
Ohhh Seth...I do love him. I have since book 1, even before he saved the day, but I was anxiously awaiting his book since I first met him. And to see the "Abigail Ban" come full circle was great too.
Second Chance
Football College Romance
Secret Tattoo
Love Triangle
Best Friends Brother
Childhood friends to lovers
All that being said, this book did not give the goods, like I was hoping it would. I love a good second chance romance and normally they hold a lot of emotional push and pull which I can totally get behind.
I mean give me a book that will leave me weeping into my pillow, or make me want to drive off of a cliff because my therapy bills are too high. I'm serious I can take all the emotions and then some. But this just didn't hit for me the way I was hoping.
The whole "I left you right after my sister died and left you alone thing"......yeah that is too messed up for even my brain to accept love with one another after that. There are some things that you can't come back from. I mean you can murder my brother or my mother and I will still forgive you, or end all those who have upset me, or torture people for fun or gods know what else....but leaving at a time like this the way he did.....nope.
I will say though....Seth has a tattoo...and that tattoo is the reason this is a 3.5 star instead of a 2.5/3 star review.
I still love this series and hold a special place in my heart for it but this book is not my top out of them by far.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and greys promotion and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I went into this book expecting a few tear-jerking moments, but I was not prepared for it to completely ruin me.
Stars of Mortals is the third book in the Gods of Campus series, following Seth and Abigail, whose lives have always been connected. They grew up together, fell in love, and planned a future until one tragic accident changed everything.
Unable to handle the weight of his grief, Seth left. Years later, they run into each other on campus, forcing them to confront the pain they never truly moved on from. Abigail is still carrying the heartbreak of not only losing her best friend, but also the boy she loved more than anything. Seth understood what he did was selfish and wrong, but he never stopped loving Abigail. It was always her for him.
What I loved most was that their journey back to each other wasn’t easy. They had to work through years of grief, anger, and unresolved trauma before they could even think about a future together. It was emotional, heartbreaking, and beautifully written. The love they had ran deep. No amount of time, pain, or distance could change that. They were always meant to be together.
Some of my favorite moments were the ones that included their friends. Through all the heartbreak and healing, they were a constant source of support for one another.
This book shattered my heart and somehow put it back together again. Five-star read for sure!
Stars of Mortals is the third book in the Gods of Campus series, following Seth and Abigail, whose lives have always been connected. They grew up together, fell in love, and planned a future until one tragic accident changed everything.
Unable to handle the weight of his grief, Seth left. Years later, they run into each other on campus, forcing them to confront the pain they never truly moved on from. Abigail is still carrying the heartbreak of not only losing her best friend, but also the boy she loved more than anything. Seth understood what he did was selfish and wrong, but he never stopped loving Abigail. It was always her for him.
What I loved most was that their journey back to each other wasn’t easy. They had to work through years of grief, anger, and unresolved trauma before they could even think about a future together. It was emotional, heartbreaking, and beautifully written. The love they had ran deep. No amount of time, pain, or distance could change that. They were always meant to be together.
Some of my favorite moments were the ones that included their friends. Through all the heartbreak and healing, they were a constant source of support for one another.
This book shattered my heart and somehow put it back together again. Five-star read for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
Please check the trigger warnings before reading this book because it is heartbreaking and emotional, but overall I liked it! Seth and Abigail were high school sweethearts, but after Seth’s sister tragically passed in a car accident with himself in the car, Seth left his friends, family, and Abigail behind, unable to cope with his grief. Now that she’s back in his life at his college campus, he regrets leaving and wants her back. His heart only beats for her.
Although I absolutely despise a cheating trope, I can understand why Lynise added it into this book. It shows the magnetic pull that Seth and Abigail have toward each other and how much they were connected at the heart since they were each other’s first loves. Abigail also showed great remorse for cheating on her boyfriend and ended up doing the right thing in the end even though it was hard. Seth also showed great character growth throughout the book that I loved.
I also loved the relationships Seth has with his friends and the relationships Abigail has with hers. It felt like a found family, especially with the jokes and banter they all had. I love when authors write well rounded supporting characters that readers love just as much as the mains.
This book is all about first loves, second chances, found family, loss, and living with grief. I’d definitely recommend it!
Thank you to Lynise Reid for the ARC for an honest review!
Please check the trigger warnings before reading this book because it is heartbreaking and emotional, but overall I liked it! Seth and Abigail were high school sweethearts, but after Seth’s sister tragically passed in a car accident with himself in the car, Seth left his friends, family, and Abigail behind, unable to cope with his grief. Now that she’s back in his life at his college campus, he regrets leaving and wants her back. His heart only beats for her.
Although I absolutely despise a cheating trope, I can understand why Lynise added it into this book. It shows the magnetic pull that Seth and Abigail have toward each other and how much they were connected at the heart since they were each other’s first loves. Abigail also showed great remorse for cheating on her boyfriend and ended up doing the right thing in the end even though it was hard. Seth also showed great character growth throughout the book that I loved.
I also loved the relationships Seth has with his friends and the relationships Abigail has with hers. It felt like a found family, especially with the jokes and banter they all had. I love when authors write well rounded supporting characters that readers love just as much as the mains.
This book is all about first loves, second chances, found family, loss, and living with grief. I’d definitely recommend it!
Thank you to Lynise Reid for the ARC for an honest review!
July 8, 2026
💔 Some scars never truly fade… but love just might heal them. 💔
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Talk about an emotional roller coaster! Scars of Mortals completely pulled me in from the very first chapter, and I honestly couldn’t put it down. Every time I told myself, “Just one more chapter,” I ended up reading several more because I had to know what would happen next.
Seth and Abigail’s story absolutely wrecked me. My heart hurt for both of them as they navigated grief, guilt, heartbreak, and all the emotions that had been buried for years. Their journey felt so raw and real that I found myself experiencing every emotion right alongside them.
Have you ever wanted to slap a character… and then immediately wrap them in a hug? That was me throughout this entire book. The characters made mistakes, struggled with impossible situations, and loved deeply, making them feel incredibly human.
This story is packed with emotional depth, healing, forgiveness, and a second chance at the love they never truly let go of. By the end, I was completely invested in every part of their journey.
This was my first book by Lynise Reid, but it definitely won’t be my last. If all of her books deliver this kind of emotional punch, I’m already adding more to my TBR.
Have you read Scars of Mortals yet? Let me know what you thought! 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Talk about an emotional roller coaster! Scars of Mortals completely pulled me in from the very first chapter, and I honestly couldn’t put it down. Every time I told myself, “Just one more chapter,” I ended up reading several more because I had to know what would happen next.
Seth and Abigail’s story absolutely wrecked me. My heart hurt for both of them as they navigated grief, guilt, heartbreak, and all the emotions that had been buried for years. Their journey felt so raw and real that I found myself experiencing every emotion right alongside them.
Have you ever wanted to slap a character… and then immediately wrap them in a hug? That was me throughout this entire book. The characters made mistakes, struggled with impossible situations, and loved deeply, making them feel incredibly human.
This story is packed with emotional depth, healing, forgiveness, and a second chance at the love they never truly let go of. By the end, I was completely invested in every part of their journey.
This was my first book by Lynise Reid, but it definitely won’t be my last. If all of her books deliver this kind of emotional punch, I’m already adding more to my TBR.
Have you read Scars of Mortals yet? Let me know what you thought! 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster and have you all up in your feels as Seth and Abigail find their way back to each other. Seth is definitely my favorite MMC so far out of this series, who does not love a dark haired broody bad boy, covered in tattoos, who also rides a motorcycle. This couple definitely brings plenty of angst, so be ready for a bumpy ride because they hit a lot of pot holes to get to the HEA.
Seth was Abigail’s first everything and when tragedy hits, he leaves her behind and takes off for college. A few years later when they end up at the same college and run into each other, they have to face the past that tore them apart. As Seth and Abigail finally hash out feelings that have been bottled up, things get a little messy on the rode to healing old wounds and moving forward. Things get a lot messier when Seth wants to win Abigail back, but there is the issue of her having a boyfriend. In order for Seth and Abigail to get their HEA mistakes are made, some hard decisions have to be made and a lot of inner healing has to take place. I was happy that Seth and Abigail finally found their way back together because they never stopped loving each other, even if I had to endure some emotional damage along the way.
Seth was Abigail’s first everything and when tragedy hits, he leaves her behind and takes off for college. A few years later when they end up at the same college and run into each other, they have to face the past that tore them apart. As Seth and Abigail finally hash out feelings that have been bottled up, things get a little messy on the rode to healing old wounds and moving forward. Things get a lot messier when Seth wants to win Abigail back, but there is the issue of her having a boyfriend. In order for Seth and Abigail to get their HEA mistakes are made, some hard decisions have to be made and a lot of inner healing has to take place. I was happy that Seth and Abigail finally found their way back together because they never stopped loving each other, even if I had to endure some emotional damage along the way.
July 1, 2026
*5 stars*
This was my first read by the author and definitely won't be my last one. It's been such a rollercoaster of emotions. I laughed at times but there were also tears, my emotions were running high and low as things were very relatable but there was also hope. I really liked the relationship between Seth & Abigail and we saw glimpses of their past as the author was making sure that you knew the history to what happened between them. At times I couldn't keep my tears at bay but with the story, there were things that definitely pulled on all your heartstrings.
As Abigail is getting through her college years, she comes face to face again with the one that broke her heart years ago but she handles it with grace. Seth is a bit thrown off as it's been so long since he's seen Abigail after that fateful night. Both still reeling from what has happened but living their own life. But as they are back in each others lives, there are still things left unsaid. Although things are complicated, their love is still hidden underneath trying to get to the surface. The bond between them is still strong and their relationship starts to slowly change but will they be prepared to give their love a second chance?...
This was my first read by the author and definitely won't be my last one. It's been such a rollercoaster of emotions. I laughed at times but there were also tears, my emotions were running high and low as things were very relatable but there was also hope. I really liked the relationship between Seth & Abigail and we saw glimpses of their past as the author was making sure that you knew the history to what happened between them. At times I couldn't keep my tears at bay but with the story, there were things that definitely pulled on all your heartstrings.
As Abigail is getting through her college years, she comes face to face again with the one that broke her heart years ago but she handles it with grace. Seth is a bit thrown off as it's been so long since he's seen Abigail after that fateful night. Both still reeling from what has happened but living their own life. But as they are back in each others lives, there are still things left unsaid. Although things are complicated, their love is still hidden underneath trying to get to the surface. The bond between them is still strong and their relationship starts to slowly change but will they be prepared to give their love a second chance?...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Scars of Mortals by Lynise Reed
Gods of Campus book 3
This just became one of my favourite books! Lots of us skip over the cheating trope but it absolutely fit in this book and it was heartbreaking but I also feel like the age of the MCs plays a huge part in this as well! College age is supposed to be messy and filled with drama. 😏
The rollercoaster of emotions this book took me was just so worth it. Seth and Abigail were friends since childhood. Being neighbours and Abigail is best friends with his sister. These 2 belong together. Soul mates through and through until tragedy strikes and Seth leaves her in the worst time of their lives.
Years later back on their college campus they somehow end up back in each other’s orbit. Seth a well known football player and has the playboy reputation. Abigail’s boyfriend is a hockey player and they are so good for each other until Seth enters the picture. Oh the angst😏
I absolutely adore when Seth finally gets his head out of his ass and chases her! I’m just obsessed with these 2, the soul mates true loves always wins 😏🥰
It was amazing to read about the pervious characters in this book as well 🖤
Gods of Campus book 3
This just became one of my favourite books! Lots of us skip over the cheating trope but it absolutely fit in this book and it was heartbreaking but I also feel like the age of the MCs plays a huge part in this as well! College age is supposed to be messy and filled with drama. 😏
The rollercoaster of emotions this book took me was just so worth it. Seth and Abigail were friends since childhood. Being neighbours and Abigail is best friends with his sister. These 2 belong together. Soul mates through and through until tragedy strikes and Seth leaves her in the worst time of their lives.
Years later back on their college campus they somehow end up back in each other’s orbit. Seth a well known football player and has the playboy reputation. Abigail’s boyfriend is a hockey player and they are so good for each other until Seth enters the picture. Oh the angst😏
I absolutely adore when Seth finally gets his head out of his ass and chases her! I’m just obsessed with these 2, the soul mates true loves always wins 😏🥰
It was amazing to read about the pervious characters in this book as well 🖤
July 7, 2026
⭐ Overall Rating: 5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
💧 Emotional Rating: 6/5
This book completely surprised me.
I stayed up reading until I could barely keep my eyes open because I couldn’t stop. I only had a handful of pages left when I finally fell asleep and immediately finished it the next morning.
Seth and Abigail’s story is heartbreaking, beautiful, and full of healing.
High school sweethearts separated by unimaginable grief, only to find one another years later… it was impossible not to root for them.
What made this book especially meaningful for me was how much I related to Seth’s grief.
I lost my brother in a tragic accident when I was ten years old. Like Seth, I had to learn how to live in a world that looked completely different after losing someone I loved. Reading his journey felt incredibly personal and reminded me that grief changes over time, but love never really leaves us.
This wasn’t just a romance.
It became one of the most emotional and healing books I’ve read this year.
Thank you to Greys Promotions for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
🔥 Burn Level: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
💧 Emotional Rating: 6/5
This book completely surprised me.
I stayed up reading until I could barely keep my eyes open because I couldn’t stop. I only had a handful of pages left when I finally fell asleep and immediately finished it the next morning.
Seth and Abigail’s story is heartbreaking, beautiful, and full of healing.
High school sweethearts separated by unimaginable grief, only to find one another years later… it was impossible not to root for them.
What made this book especially meaningful for me was how much I related to Seth’s grief.
I lost my brother in a tragic accident when I was ten years old. Like Seth, I had to learn how to live in a world that looked completely different after losing someone I loved. Reading his journey felt incredibly personal and reminded me that grief changes over time, but love never really leaves us.
This wasn’t just a romance.
It became one of the most emotional and healing books I’ve read this year.
Thank you to Greys Promotions for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 30, 2026
4.5 ⭐
First of all thank you to @lynisereidauthor & @greyspromo for sending me an ARC copy to read, I have been waiting for this book since 'Running Play' & it didn't disappoint 🤌🏻🥰
Well what can I say this was truly a heartbreaking but stunning story between Seth & Abigail 🥰 Childhood friends turned to high school sweethearts given a second chance after tragedy that left them both so lost. I have loved the first two books & was so excited to dive into the third & loved every bit of it. 🫶🏻
Lynise has truly written a great group of characters, she has such a way with story telling & bringing the characters to life with each of their personalities & I love them all, I loved the throwback chapters & it gave more insight into the relationship & the grief they went through. I was invested in Seth from 'Running Play' but at times I felt like screaming at him especially how he left Abigail 🤦🏻♀️ 😂 But he seem to come to his senses & gave into his feelings. 🖤
I would definitely recommend reading these books if you love a good college friendship & romance with lots of drama 🤌🏻❤️
First of all thank you to @lynisereidauthor & @greyspromo for sending me an ARC copy to read, I have been waiting for this book since 'Running Play' & it didn't disappoint 🤌🏻🥰
Well what can I say this was truly a heartbreaking but stunning story between Seth & Abigail 🥰 Childhood friends turned to high school sweethearts given a second chance after tragedy that left them both so lost. I have loved the first two books & was so excited to dive into the third & loved every bit of it. 🫶🏻
Lynise has truly written a great group of characters, she has such a way with story telling & bringing the characters to life with each of their personalities & I love them all, I loved the throwback chapters & it gave more insight into the relationship & the grief they went through. I was invested in Seth from 'Running Play' but at times I felt like screaming at him especially how he left Abigail 🤦🏻♀️ 😂 But he seem to come to his senses & gave into his feelings. 🖤
I would definitely recommend reading these books if you love a good college friendship & romance with lots of drama 🤌🏻❤️
July 1, 2026
If you’re looking for a college football romance where the men make you swoon, look no further.
Seth is the Harley‑riding, tattoo‑covered bad boy who has every girl falling for him, but he’s only ever wanted one. When he finally gets his chance to win her over, he’ll stop at nothing.
Abigail isn’t a soft pushover, and I love that she gives as good as she gets. She makes Seth work for every inch of her trust, and it’s glorious to watch.
What I love most about this story is how it peels back Seth’s layers, showing the real man beneath the broody exterior we’ve seen in books 1 and 2.
There are laugh‑out‑loud moments, heartfelt scenes, and that signature friend‑group chaos Lynise keeps alive.
The growing dynamic adds warmth and humour that make this series shine.
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
Tropes
• Found family
• Second chance romance
• College football setting
• He fell first
• Tattooed bad boy
• Strong heroine
• Motorcycle romance
• Broody hero redemption
Trigger Warnings
• Loss and grief
• Emotional vulnerability
• Mentions of past trauma
• Competitive pressure
Seth is the Harley‑riding, tattoo‑covered bad boy who has every girl falling for him, but he’s only ever wanted one. When he finally gets his chance to win her over, he’ll stop at nothing.
Abigail isn’t a soft pushover, and I love that she gives as good as she gets. She makes Seth work for every inch of her trust, and it’s glorious to watch.
What I love most about this story is how it peels back Seth’s layers, showing the real man beneath the broody exterior we’ve seen in books 1 and 2.
There are laugh‑out‑loud moments, heartfelt scenes, and that signature friend‑group chaos Lynise keeps alive.
The growing dynamic adds warmth and humour that make this series shine.
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶
Tropes
• Found family
• Second chance romance
• College football setting
• He fell first
• Tattooed bad boy
• Strong heroine
• Motorcycle romance
• Broody hero redemption
Trigger Warnings
• Loss and grief
• Emotional vulnerability
• Mentions of past trauma
• Competitive pressure
July 8, 2026
This was such an emotional second-chance romance. Seth and Abigail’s history runs deep, and you can feel the love, heartbreak, and regret between them from the very first chapter. Their story isn’t just about finding their way back to each other—it’s about learning how to live with grief, forgive the past, and decide if love is worth risking everything for.
Seth completely stole my heart. Even after all the years apart, it’s obvious that Abigail never truly left his heart. Watching them confront everything that happened instead of continuing to run from it made their journey feel authentic and emotional.
The only reason this wasn’t a five-star read for me was that I wanted a little more from the ending. After everything they endured, I would’ve loved a longer epilogue or a few extra chapters to really settle into their happily ever after.
If you love second-chance romance, childhood sweethearts, emotional angst, and stories where love refuses to stay buried, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Seth completely stole my heart. Even after all the years apart, it’s obvious that Abigail never truly left his heart. Watching them confront everything that happened instead of continuing to run from it made their journey feel authentic and emotional.
The only reason this wasn’t a five-star read for me was that I wanted a little more from the ending. After everything they endured, I would’ve loved a longer epilogue or a few extra chapters to really settle into their happily ever after.
If you love second-chance romance, childhood sweethearts, emotional angst, and stories where love refuses to stay buried, this one is definitely worth picking up.
July 11, 2026
Check Content/Trigger Warnings
5/5 Stars 4/5 Spice
A great but emotional Rollercoaster. Seth & Abigail basically known each other all their lives as they were childhood friends & neighbors then grew to more as they got older and during this time Seth's sister is also Abigails best friend and when Seth's sister is tragically taken in a accident which then throws Seth into a spiral where he leaves & disconnects from everyone which breaks Abigails heart as she not only lost her best friend but now her boyfriend. Fast forward to Two years later & both are reunited at college and Seth realizes he wants his Abigail back but there’s just one little hiccup to his plan, she has a new boyfriend but with such a strong history and pull to each other Abigail and Seth have a moment of weakness and Abigail must face what she's done and figure out if she's wanting to give up her boyfriend or give her heart back to the one who broke it before. To read more of their story pick up this awesome read today.
5/5 Stars 4/5 Spice
A great but emotional Rollercoaster. Seth & Abigail basically known each other all their lives as they were childhood friends & neighbors then grew to more as they got older and during this time Seth's sister is also Abigails best friend and when Seth's sister is tragically taken in a accident which then throws Seth into a spiral where he leaves & disconnects from everyone which breaks Abigails heart as she not only lost her best friend but now her boyfriend. Fast forward to Two years later & both are reunited at college and Seth realizes he wants his Abigail back but there’s just one little hiccup to his plan, she has a new boyfriend but with such a strong history and pull to each other Abigail and Seth have a moment of weakness and Abigail must face what she's done and figure out if she's wanting to give up her boyfriend or give her heart back to the one who broke it before. To read more of their story pick up this awesome read today.
June 30, 2026
ARC review - LOVE this series!
Full disclosure, I'm not the biggest fan of second chance romances, but this one I can full get behind! Actually, this whole series I wholly recommend you read, its amazing, and it's by an Australian author, so extra win!!! 🇦🇺
The layers of connection between friends and the family they build together are deep. There's so much love and grief, it hits the soul.
Seth has finally had his time in the spotlight in Scars of Mortals and its been sooo worth it. The six foot five football player, covered in ink, rides a Harley is brought to his knees by a girl over a foot shorter than him...*melts into a happy bookworm puddle*
The history, the journey, the everything between Abigail and Seth was just amazing to read. There were tears, but ended with smiles. A lot of healing needed to be had and of course some spicy love as well.
Thanks to Lynise & Greys Promotions for gifting me an early copy. This is an honest review.
Full disclosure, I'm not the biggest fan of second chance romances, but this one I can full get behind! Actually, this whole series I wholly recommend you read, its amazing, and it's by an Australian author, so extra win!!! 🇦🇺
The layers of connection between friends and the family they build together are deep. There's so much love and grief, it hits the soul.
Seth has finally had his time in the spotlight in Scars of Mortals and its been sooo worth it. The six foot five football player, covered in ink, rides a Harley is brought to his knees by a girl over a foot shorter than him...*melts into a happy bookworm puddle*
The history, the journey, the everything between Abigail and Seth was just amazing to read. There were tears, but ended with smiles. A lot of healing needed to be had and of course some spicy love as well.
Thanks to Lynise & Greys Promotions for gifting me an early copy. This is an honest review.
July 1, 2026
“I’m still alive. So, losing you and Heather at the same time obviously didn’t kill me. But what’s that saying? Sometimes there are things worse than death, I think is how it goes,”
I was hanging on by a thread waiting for Seth's book, his redemption arc- and THIS BOOK DELIVERED ON SO MANY LEVELS!!!
Now, we have met Seth in the other books, and we have all wanted to know his story. His story is a sad one, but also knowing his story and meeting dearest Abigail- these two were made for each other but they DESTROYED EACH OTHER. Dang- my heart slowly shattered throughout this book, I was so mad at both of them and I couldn't decide who was worse, but that's what made this book even more compelling to read.
First love, first heartbreak, sisters best friend/ best friends brother, Seth is an absolute romantic at heart, he gets special tattoos for her, college football romance, but fair warning there is cheating in this one.
I was hanging on by a thread waiting for Seth's book, his redemption arc- and THIS BOOK DELIVERED ON SO MANY LEVELS!!!
Now, we have met Seth in the other books, and we have all wanted to know his story. His story is a sad one, but also knowing his story and meeting dearest Abigail- these two were made for each other but they DESTROYED EACH OTHER. Dang- my heart slowly shattered throughout this book, I was so mad at both of them and I couldn't decide who was worse, but that's what made this book even more compelling to read.
First love, first heartbreak, sisters best friend/ best friends brother, Seth is an absolute romantic at heart, he gets special tattoos for her, college football romance, but fair warning there is cheating in this one.
July 8, 2026
This is the third book in the Gods of Campus series. This is definitely my favorite book. This book is about Seth and Abigail. They were childhood friends and they experienced many of their firsts together but unfortunately a tragedy separated them. Seth lost his sister and Abigail’s best friend. Seth did not handle the loss well. This is a very emotional, heart wrenching book. There is so much angst and pining and I couldn’t devour it fast enough. Seth is a college student who plays football, he’s smart, protective and loyal. He’s got great friends and life seems fine but then Abigail enters his world again. Abigail has learned to move forward and now is seeing someone who really cares for her. Yet Seth wants Abigail back. He needs to be with her, to right the wrongs. The story is so good be cause the characters are complex and well developed and the story so poignant. Truly an amazing book. Please check trigger warnings there may be some things that are troubling.
June 30, 2026
This is the third book in this impressive series, and this is Seth and Abigail’s journey,
Seth and Abigail were high school sweethearts, and she was his late sister’s best friend. Seth was Abigail’s first everything, but when she needs him the most, he left. Abigail tried to move on and have a relationship with someone who loved her, but she ends up back in her hometown, and Seth is determined to get her back.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, grief, loss, conflict, tension, heartbreak, forgiveness, unresolved feeling, vulnerability, determination, healing, second chances, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Seth and Abigail were high school sweethearts, and she was his late sister’s best friend. Seth was Abigail’s first everything, but when she needs him the most, he left. Abigail tried to move on and have a relationship with someone who loved her, but she ends up back in her hometown, and Seth is determined to get her back.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, grief, loss, conflict, tension, heartbreak, forgiveness, unresolved feeling, vulnerability, determination, healing, second chances, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
July 6, 2026
It’s taking me a while to write a review after finishing this book. Thank you so much Lynise and Greys Promo for this ARC. I’ve been waiting for Seth and Abigail’s story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This series has my whole heart. This is such a heartwarming story that will send you into a roller coaster of emotions. High school sweethearts Seth and Abigail reunited after a horrible past that left them separated and no communication.
I really enjoyed this book. Their POV’s really make you feel all the emotions and they really give off that ‘it’s always been you’ energy and I’m all for it.
The growth and communication was amazing because they gave it their all. I love Seth and Abigail so much I have no other words to describe their relationship they’ve made it to my number one spot of this series.
Tropes:
🏈 second chance romance
🏈 it’s always been you
🏈 childhood friends to lovers
🏈 best friend’s brother
🏈 sports romance
🏈 love triangle
🏈 high school sweethearts
🏈 sweet romance
🏈 tragic past
Scars of Mortals is the third book of Gods of Campus series. It is out now!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This series has my whole heart. This is such a heartwarming story that will send you into a roller coaster of emotions. High school sweethearts Seth and Abigail reunited after a horrible past that left them separated and no communication.
I really enjoyed this book. Their POV’s really make you feel all the emotions and they really give off that ‘it’s always been you’ energy and I’m all for it.
The growth and communication was amazing because they gave it their all. I love Seth and Abigail so much I have no other words to describe their relationship they’ve made it to my number one spot of this series.
Tropes:
🏈 second chance romance
🏈 it’s always been you
🏈 childhood friends to lovers
🏈 best friend’s brother
🏈 sports romance
🏈 love triangle
🏈 high school sweethearts
🏈 sweet romance
🏈 tragic past
Scars of Mortals is the third book of Gods of Campus series. It is out now!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is Book 3 in the Gods of Campus series by Lynise Reid, and she hasn’t failed me yet! Her books are addictive, entertaining, and packed with depth.
Scars of Mortals was so good! This time, the story focuses on Seth and Abigail. Seth is a hunky football player, while Abigail is his sister’s best friend, childhood friend, and next door neighbor. Their love story is unique and truly special.
I love a man who’s assertive and knows what he wants, especially a muscular giant covered in tattoos. 🤤 I read this in one day and enjoyed it just as much as Lynise’s previous books in the series. I’ll happily keep picking up whatever she’s putting down!
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 📚💕
Scars of Mortals was so good! This time, the story focuses on Seth and Abigail. Seth is a hunky football player, while Abigail is his sister’s best friend, childhood friend, and next door neighbor. Their love story is unique and truly special.
I love a man who’s assertive and knows what he wants, especially a muscular giant covered in tattoos. 🤤 I read this in one day and enjoyed it just as much as Lynise’s previous books in the series. I’ll happily keep picking up whatever she’s putting down!
Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 📚💕
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