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Scars #3
Aaron
This 36k word novella is told from Aaron's point of view.
Aaron and Rachel are still together, but for how long?
Warning: contains sex and violence
Aaron and Rachel are still together, but for how long?
Warning: contains sex and violence
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2015
16 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 7, 2015
My chief complaint with this story is, its too short, outside of that the novel was awesome! Aaron is still a major douchebag, cruel, sinister and a raving lunatic and those are just a few of his good qualities; but even I have to admit the pompous ass is starting to grow on me.
I put it around her neck and she whimpered. I knew exactly how she was feeling. The powerlessness, the terror of being in the hands of someone you knew was crazy. After pulling it tight, I took my knife and cut through half of the rope.
There's a fine line between love and forgiveness, not that this couple will ever reach that point. How can one forgive a monster, who tortures for fun and kill as a hobby. Aaron can say its his profession, only a job when in reality its semantics.
How would you get even with your tormentor? Would you train for it, maybe slip a little something extra in the coffee when no one is looking? Or maybe.. just maybe wait for the all clear and pry his blacken heart out with a rusty spoon? Mmmmmmm you tell me.... enjoy!
I put it around her neck and she whimpered. I knew exactly how she was feeling. The powerlessness, the terror of being in the hands of someone you knew was crazy. After pulling it tight, I took my knife and cut through half of the rope.
There's a fine line between love and forgiveness, not that this couple will ever reach that point. How can one forgive a monster, who tortures for fun and kill as a hobby. Aaron can say its his profession, only a job when in reality its semantics.
How would you get even with your tormentor? Would you train for it, maybe slip a little something extra in the coffee when no one is looking? Or maybe.. just maybe wait for the all clear and pry his blacken heart out with a rusty spoon? Mmmmmmm you tell me.... enjoy!
April 15, 2022
If Scars is like imagining a dark romance take on the rom com Heartbreakers, Aaron is like the dark romance take on Daphne Du Maurier's My Cousin Rachel.
My Cousin Rachel is all about a nephew who receives letters from a beloved uncle while he is off in Italy (I believe) where he meets a woman named Rachel. The letters seem to show an increasingly erratic mind, and the nephew believes that Rachel is at the bottom of his uncle's deteriorating mental state. The letters show that the uncle believes in Rachel but is giving her all his money and things like that. When the uncle dies, the nephew is forced to meet Rachel, who is also his cousin. He is prepared to hate her, is actually on guard against her but like the uncle, he falls under her "bewitchment." She is charming, not at all looking out for money, sweet, seems to like him... He thinks there is something between them, she plays cool. At the end of the novel, he succumbs to an illness and ends up giving his inheritance from his deceased uncle to Rachel.
Swap out inheritance for mafia stuff and you got Aaron. In Scars, we have the uncle imploring the nephew to take care of Rachel, alias of Paige. The nephew finds his uncle's diary, a form of letter writing, and reads his uncle's erratic, brainwashed thoughts, knowing who the real woman is, "Rachel." Yet Aaron also falls for Paige. Aaron's obsession with Paige reminded me of Whitney Bianca's Mansions. Both stories are perfect and worth reading but my personal taste is for Aaron.
As a whole, Sinden West's Scars series is absolutely marvellous. An amazing story from start to finish. I feel like Memory was Paige processing trauma from Scars/her entire existence and Aaron was Aaron processing trauma from Scars/his entire existence. West does such a successful job at writing about the most f**ked up characters in a way where you, as a reader, sympathize with them or hold off on judgment.
In Aaron, this gave me major obsession, delirium vibes and I loved it. Another story this reminded me of was Secrets. Secrets was angst hell but that same type of male thought process of "This woman is a siren! I will do anything for her! I am sick with obsession!" Also a throwback to V.C. Andrews and what I recall of the mom figure from Flowers in the Attic.
We don't really have legit femme fatale characters in romance, and when we did have them, we never had them like this. There was a humanizing, and a call out of BS. That moment when Paige is like, "You sound so stupid and like your uncle" when Aaron spouts his fevered words of how she is some fantasy creature - ugh so satisfying to call the patriarchal gaze for what it is!
Aaron and Paige are a strong match for each other. You need MCs to be strong as each other for this type of story to work. What was interesting was that Paige felt Aaron was so cold, incapable of love, and Aaron also felt the same way from Paige - that she could never love him if she wasn't broken, that she could never love him. The damage from the events in Scars reverberate for both MCs. Both sides feel so similar, and both react in the same ways - they try to act like they're all cool and unbothered but there they go, defiling every clean surface in the room! You kids.
I feel so satisfied. HEA is good. Do we have get the over-the-board declarations of love? No. Do we get any declaration of love? Aaron obliquely implies it, but no. However, the HEA works. The big bad obstacle has been cleared, their demons also cleared, and their relationship stronger due to some transparent dialogue on the part of Aaron.
My Cousin Rachel is all about a nephew who receives letters from a beloved uncle while he is off in Italy (I believe) where he meets a woman named Rachel. The letters seem to show an increasingly erratic mind, and the nephew believes that Rachel is at the bottom of his uncle's deteriorating mental state. The letters show that the uncle believes in Rachel but is giving her all his money and things like that. When the uncle dies, the nephew is forced to meet Rachel, who is also his cousin. He is prepared to hate her, is actually on guard against her but like the uncle, he falls under her "bewitchment." She is charming, not at all looking out for money, sweet, seems to like him... He thinks there is something between them, she plays cool. At the end of the novel, he succumbs to an illness and ends up giving his inheritance from his deceased uncle to Rachel.
Swap out inheritance for mafia stuff and you got Aaron. In Scars, we have the uncle imploring the nephew to take care of Rachel, alias of Paige. The nephew finds his uncle's diary, a form of letter writing, and reads his uncle's erratic, brainwashed thoughts, knowing who the real woman is, "Rachel." Yet Aaron also falls for Paige. Aaron's obsession with Paige reminded me of Whitney Bianca's Mansions. Both stories are perfect and worth reading but my personal taste is for Aaron.
As a whole, Sinden West's Scars series is absolutely marvellous. An amazing story from start to finish. I feel like Memory was Paige processing trauma from Scars/her entire existence and Aaron was Aaron processing trauma from Scars/his entire existence. West does such a successful job at writing about the most f**ked up characters in a way where you, as a reader, sympathize with them or hold off on judgment.
In Aaron, this gave me major obsession, delirium vibes and I loved it. Another story this reminded me of was Secrets. Secrets was angst hell but that same type of male thought process of "This woman is a siren! I will do anything for her! I am sick with obsession!" Also a throwback to V.C. Andrews and what I recall of the mom figure from Flowers in the Attic.
We don't really have legit femme fatale characters in romance, and when we did have them, we never had them like this. There was a humanizing, and a call out of BS. That moment when Paige is like, "You sound so stupid and like your uncle" when Aaron spouts his fevered words of how she is some fantasy creature - ugh so satisfying to call the patriarchal gaze for what it is!
Aaron and Paige are a strong match for each other. You need MCs to be strong as each other for this type of story to work. What was interesting was that Paige felt Aaron was so cold, incapable of love, and Aaron also felt the same way from Paige - that she could never love him if she wasn't broken, that she could never love him. The damage from the events in Scars reverberate for both MCs. Both sides feel so similar, and both react in the same ways - they try to act like they're all cool and unbothered but there they go, defiling every clean surface in the room! You kids.
I feel so satisfied. HEA is good. Do we have get the over-the-board declarations of love? No. Do we get any declaration of love? Aaron obliquely implies it, but no. However, the HEA works. The big bad obstacle has been cleared, their demons also cleared, and their relationship stronger due to some transparent dialogue on the part of Aaron.
January 24, 2016
I'm pretty disappointed with this third and, presumably, final book.
This is from Aaron's POV, an addition that I looked forward to because he was very flat and lacked dimension in the previous books.
I wanted to delve deeper into what made him tick, what he thought, what was at the center of his Tootsie roll?!? Sadly, even from his own perspective, he still came across as flat & obtuse.
His character doesn't evolve for me. And, I don't say that wanting him to turn into hearts and flowers; that would be pure character assignation. I'm saying that in that we are in his head, privy to his thoughts, and I still don't know him or how he feels about anything.
His thoughts are like the psycho version of this riddler...
While I appreciated that this did not turn into a HEA w white picket and 2.2 kids, I feel like these characters are still emotionally stuck in book one.
They care about each other despite hating each other. Love and hate is such a fine line. They both put on a show of pretending and trying to prove otherwise because they're afraid... afraid it makes them weak, vulnerable, and even more f'd up than they are as individuals. Yet, when it comes down to it, they always choose each other.
So, it's disappointing that neither admit to themselves or each other that they are capable of love and that they are better & stronger together than apart. It leaves me with feeling they are cowards vs emotionless.
Overall, I think this a gripping story with intriguing characters. It's delivered in a way that it's impossible NOT to be hooked. Kudos to the author for that. But, by the end, the author left me unfulfilled and feeling like I've licked the Tootsie Roll Pop for hours only to find a hollow center:(
This is from Aaron's POV, an addition that I looked forward to because he was very flat and lacked dimension in the previous books.
I wanted to delve deeper into what made him tick, what he thought, what was at the center of his Tootsie roll?!? Sadly, even from his own perspective, he still came across as flat & obtuse.
His character doesn't evolve for me. And, I don't say that wanting him to turn into hearts and flowers; that would be pure character assignation. I'm saying that in that we are in his head, privy to his thoughts, and I still don't know him or how he feels about anything.
His thoughts are like the psycho version of this riddler...
While I appreciated that this did not turn into a HEA w white picket and 2.2 kids, I feel like these characters are still emotionally stuck in book one.
They care about each other despite hating each other. Love and hate is such a fine line. They both put on a show of pretending and trying to prove otherwise because they're afraid... afraid it makes them weak, vulnerable, and even more f'd up than they are as individuals. Yet, when it comes down to it, they always choose each other.
So, it's disappointing that neither admit to themselves or each other that they are capable of love and that they are better & stronger together than apart. It leaves me with feeling they are cowards vs emotionless.
Overall, I think this a gripping story with intriguing characters. It's delivered in a way that it's impossible NOT to be hooked. Kudos to the author for that. But, by the end, the author left me unfulfilled and feeling like I've licked the Tootsie Roll Pop for hours only to find a hollow center:(
February 18, 2022
I loved seeing things from Aaron's point of view. It showed how damaged he was and all of a sudden, Paige seemed opaque and unreasonable.
I loved the antagonistic dynamic within their relationship where it was obvious they cared for one another, but just had a hard time putting it in words or engaging in that way. BUT, the ultimate was that when they are faced with outside forces, or when one of them forces the other to make a choice to leave or kill or maim, they are a solid team - against the evil outside the two of them. I loved when Paige surprised me with her reactions. There is one scene where she left him when he needed her, but in that case, she also just saved him and could have easily killed him then too. I have no doubt she knew he would live - just needed some payback. Paige was just as strong as Aaron but just as damaged too. I think they both just wanted someone to love them in how they needed to be loved. If that makes any sense. They will never leave each other - that was clear.
All in all, this book was a much needed addition to give closure to their story. Surprisingly, it felt like a fairy tale conclusion to their messed up situation. Loose ends tied up, he declared his love (well, not in so many words, but we all got the gist of it), she chose him. Cue the music and the sunset in the horizon as they drive off into the future for more depraved adventures.
I enjoyed this, despite the difficulty getting through the painful parts and the hate. It's a love hate thing. I don't question it. I just went for the ride and liked where I ended up. I even smiled when I got to The End. Who would have thought?
I loved the antagonistic dynamic within their relationship where it was obvious they cared for one another, but just had a hard time putting it in words or engaging in that way. BUT, the ultimate was that when they are faced with outside forces, or when one of them forces the other to make a choice to leave or kill or maim, they are a solid team - against the evil outside the two of them. I loved when Paige surprised me with her reactions. There is one scene where she left him when he needed her, but in that case, she also just saved him and could have easily killed him then too. I have no doubt she knew he would live - just needed some payback. Paige was just as strong as Aaron but just as damaged too. I think they both just wanted someone to love them in how they needed to be loved. If that makes any sense. They will never leave each other - that was clear.
All in all, this book was a much needed addition to give closure to their story. Surprisingly, it felt like a fairy tale conclusion to their messed up situation. Loose ends tied up, he declared his love (well, not in so many words, but we all got the gist of it), she chose him. Cue the music and the sunset in the horizon as they drive off into the future for more depraved adventures.
I enjoyed this, despite the difficulty getting through the painful parts and the hate. It's a love hate thing. I don't question it. I just went for the ride and liked where I ended up. I even smiled when I got to The End. Who would have thought?
January 23, 2016
Most dark romances ruin them at the end by having them endlessly profess their love for each other. That didn't happen here. They were together but still really fucked up.
October 7, 2015
I have really been looking forward to this book. It is a total must read if you read books 1 and 2.
This book is told totally from Aaron's POV,...we find out a little more of his horrendous childhood. Aaron and Rachel are still together....I don't want to give any spoilers here, but I sure hope there is another book as the ending is pretty explosive. Both Aaron and Rachel both had such horrendous childhoods and I was hoping they would be able to heal one another. I think they both love each other but neither actually say it openly, though Aaron does say he wants Rachel to be happy and Rachel says she wouldn't want anyone else to touch her but Aaron.
It is really a fast read. This series has had me gripped front the start. I do hope Ms West will treat us to another episode....please
This book is told totally from Aaron's POV,...we find out a little more of his horrendous childhood. Aaron and Rachel are still together....I don't want to give any spoilers here, but I sure hope there is another book as the ending is pretty explosive. Both Aaron and Rachel both had such horrendous childhoods and I was hoping they would be able to heal one another. I think they both love each other but neither actually say it openly, though Aaron does say he wants Rachel to be happy and Rachel says she wouldn't want anyone else to touch her but Aaron.
It is really a fast read. This series has had me gripped front the start. I do hope Ms West will treat us to another episode....please
June 26, 2019
5 messed up stars. Loved it.
I liked the back and forth between Aaron and Paige's relationship. It's clear they both care deeply about each other, but they're so dysfunctional they'll never admit it. They both lashed out verbally, but then always ended up connecting physically. They wanted to express more affection and vulnerability but were scared. That aspect of their relationship was relatable to me. I was happy with how the story ended, overall this was a satisfying series.
I liked the back and forth between Aaron and Paige's relationship. It's clear they both care deeply about each other, but they're so dysfunctional they'll never admit it. They both lashed out verbally, but then always ended up connecting physically. They wanted to express more affection and vulnerability but were scared. That aspect of their relationship was relatable to me. I was happy with how the story ended, overall this was a satisfying series.
October 28, 2015
Sinden West slays me. I've read just about all her novels, and I'm always scrambling after the last page to read something as nearly satisfying. Especially since it's another part of Aaron and Rachel's story. Early Christmas present?
FUCK YEAH!
I'm glad we had a glimpse in Aaron's mind, it was refreshing and fantastic!
FUCK YEAH!
I'm glad we had a glimpse in Aaron's mind, it was refreshing and fantastic!
January 3, 2016
I love Aaron and Paige/rachel's interactions with one another. Still angsty as ever. Still dysfunctional and broken, but absolutely one of my favorite book couples.
I really wouldn't mind if there was a fourth book.
I really wouldn't mind if there was a fourth book.
July 27, 2016
Wow
The third book was somewhat of a change from the first two, but it was also just as amazing. Talk about playing with someone's emotions. These book were full of that. It draws you in and keeps you on edge. I would so read this whole series again.
The third book was somewhat of a change from the first two, but it was also just as amazing. Talk about playing with someone's emotions. These book were full of that. It draws you in and keeps you on edge. I would so read this whole series again.
August 26, 2023
After reading just a few of Sinden West's books she is now a must read author for me. She creates such complex characters. You simultaneously love and hate them.
February 8, 2016
I read all three books in this series but found it hard to have any sympathy for either of the two main characters.
December 26, 2022
I wish more time was devoted to this book like the others. I hated the ending.
January 29, 2023
The last chapter is the only thing that matters. Why would you do this to me? HAPPY AT LAST!! i-
April 13, 2020
Perfectly imperfect; there are some grammatical errors, but so what, I loved it. The last paragraph left me covered in goosebumps. What a pair of messed up people, and boy do they deserve each other. They are meant to be together; Rachel understands that together they are strong. Aaron can't bring himself to say he loves her, not formally or directly, so it translates into him telling her he wants her to be happy. That's the language they speak; it's as intimate and loving as it needs to get.
Overall it was an emotive tale that Miss West told in her inimitable style; it could have gone either way and I was not disappointed, although she did have me sweating towards the end. I could not put it aside once I started to read it; I was gripped from the get-go. I had expected more information about Aaron's earlier life but found that not going into too much gory detail suited me better; less was more. The author had me all over the place, alternately hating and loving the protagonists.
Again, I love the way the author writes; it's always very simple and honest. She paints wonderful colour pictures in my mind and plays havoc with my emotions. The pace was fast and the tone just right. I would recommend it as a nice little addendum to Scars. I wonder what Miss West will write next?? Can't wait.
Overall it was an emotive tale that Miss West told in her inimitable style; it could have gone either way and I was not disappointed, although she did have me sweating towards the end. I could not put it aside once I started to read it; I was gripped from the get-go. I had expected more information about Aaron's earlier life but found that not going into too much gory detail suited me better; less was more. The author had me all over the place, alternately hating and loving the protagonists.
Again, I love the way the author writes; it's always very simple and honest. She paints wonderful colour pictures in my mind and plays havoc with my emotions. The pace was fast and the tone just right. I would recommend it as a nice little addendum to Scars. I wonder what Miss West will write next?? Can't wait.
September 26, 2021
The character dynamic regressed a bit as Rachel went back to being icy and her "Rachel" identity. Wish she chose a new name, as book 2 was about her shaking free of the Hannah/Rachel/Paige scars of her life and choosing her own way, even if that wasn't realistic to achieve with her trauma.
All three parts struggle with repetitive dialogue, but they worked well in the first two. Despite of the repetitive dialogue that showed you how closed off the two protagonists are, there were major external factors pushing them to do out of character things, or "grow" as people, especially for Paige who sort of became more sure of the person she wants to be. That really slowed down in this portion of the novels, so 2/5.
All three parts struggle with repetitive dialogue, but they worked well in the first two. Despite of the repetitive dialogue that showed you how closed off the two protagonists are, there were major external factors pushing them to do out of character things, or "grow" as people, especially for Paige who sort of became more sure of the person she wants to be. That really slowed down in this portion of the novels, so 2/5.
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