The Scars Between Us

by M.K. Schiller

Emma Cooper is determined to fulfill her mother's dying wish to scatter her ashes with Aiden Sheffield in Linx, Texas. Just one problem. Why Texas and who the hell is Aiden Sheffield? The only clue is a faded piece of her mother's stationary. Emma imagines Aiden is a former love of her mother's, but when she meets the beautiful, damaged stranger, she realizes her assumptions couldn't be more wrong. He's hot and young. And Emma is as confused as ever.

Aiden Sheffield would rather go to hell than Linx. Who does Emma think she is disrupting his carefully built life? The last thing the Marine needs is to slice open the sealed wounds of his painful past. Yet, as he gets to know the lovely Emma, a woman who manages to smile even though she's lost everything, he changes his mind. He will not let her go to hell alone.

But neither is prepared for the devastating evil waiting for them at the end of the road. It might just destroy them.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Military Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Abuse, New Adult, Suspense

384 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 17, 2017

About the author

Not knowing a word of English, MK Schiller came to America at the age of four from India. Since then, all she’s done is collect words. After receiving the best gift ever from her parents—her very own library card—she began reading everything she could get her greedy hands on. At sixteen, a friend asked her to make up a story featuring the popular bad boy at school. This wasn’t fan fiction…it was friend fiction. From that day on, she’s known she wanted to be a writer. With the goal of making her readers both laugh and cry, MK Schiller has penned more than a dozen books, each one filled with misfit characters overcoming obstacles and finding true love.

Reviews

[Alex ♈ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to my dear friend Leonor, who brought this book to my attention!
She wrote an excellent review, well, as always, this woman rocks! 😎

I liked the book, but I also struggled.
The story had an amazing human message and his devotion to the animals and the chapter they rescued dogs were amazing!
I respected hell out of him for not going the "usual" path of self-destroying, but for trying to make a difference.
This aspect was written brilliantly!

The love story: I adored their emotional connection, but wasn't fond of their physical one. He was experienced, she wasn't. Plus totally unnecessary scene with 2 OWs, who proposed to him. Also his short flashbacks/thoughts about his sexual past were not my favourite.
But, it wasn't horrible. Just my picky nature's calling *lol*

I liked the heroine. She of course had typical (for CR books) hormonal behavior, but it was still bearable. Compared to "standard" CR heroines this one was still decent.
I floved her sass. I even learnt some new lines/jokes 😆.

So, if you rate this book on the romance level, you will definitely go above average.

But I dug deeper.
My new obsession is dark romance with revenge trope. I recently read and OTT enjoyed the book with anti-hero, who killed bad guys (abusers, rapists).
So, when I read about child abuse - and there is plenty of it in this story, incl. heart-breaking detailed scenes - I also want to read about punishment and justice.

I want the abuser to suffer ON PAGE!!!
I want him tortured and destroyed.
I want the JUSTICE!

It's only fair!!! They gave me pages and pages of child's pain and I want long chapters about abuser's suffering.
But nope, I didn't get it here.
And it was over-frustrating.

How?! How could a whole town ignore the abuse of a small child? How could no one see the real devil?
f#%&!!!
WTH with the story about her mother leaving him as child?
Why didn't she do anything?
The reasons they gave me were not enough.

Drama toward the end was too one-sided, IMO.
As if there were no laws and rules in his hometown.
Why did they arrest him and why did they beat him?

WTH with the kidnapping and why did they force the hero to almost give up? As he said to his father he could punish him as he/father/villain wanted incl. rape, I asked myself, if it happened before...

They just left me with many unanswered questions and without enough justice.
It really ruined the story for me.
Damn!

Cute epilogue though.

[Hanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Scars Between Us is my first read by M.K. Schiller, but it won’t be my last. It was beautiful, emotional and unique. The writing was incredible and the pace was perfect. It was a slow burn romance. There were some twist and turns that shocked me. I didn’t want to put this book down.

Emma just graduated college and she hasn’t found a new home yet, so she decides to fulfill her mother’s last wish. She first needs to find Aiden so he can accompany her on her trip. Aiden isn’t like Emma imaged him to be. He isn’t very friendly and he doesn’t want to go with her, but Emma doesn’t give up. Emma and Aiden spend some time together and get to know each other better. Aiden eventually decides to go with her. The trip changes Emma and Aiden’s lives.

I adored Emma and Aiden! Both of them didn’t always have an easy life, but it has made them stronger. I felt for them on multiple occasions. They are there for each other and help each other heal. I absolutely adored them together. They are a beautiful and strong couple.

Aiden left his home town and never wanted to return. He loves to save and help dogs. He’s amazing with them. He’s so patient, passionate and kind. He also loves to fight. He’s talented and strong. Aiden is attracted to Emma from the start, but he isn’t sure what to do with those feelings. It’s been very long since he had some feelings for someone else. He’s also hiding something big from her.

Emma is sweet, nice and loving. She’s a little lost and not sure what to do next. She was very close to her mother and losing her devastated Emma. She hasn’t many friends. I’m so happy that Emma has found Aiden, because he’s an amazing friend and great lover. Emma will finally find a home and love again.

-- My honest review is based on a copy provided by the author. --

[Aestas Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think you belonged to her the moment you rescued her. There’s an old Indian proverb that says if you save a life, then you are responsible for it.

If you're a fan of tortured Alpha males, then you are going to fall in love with this book's hero! Oh my gosh. His past was utterly heart-breaking!! As such, it became deeply heart-warming to read the contrast of seeing him falling in love and finding peace after all the horrific things he'd lived through. I read this book in one non-stop sitting. The story was both romantic and suspenseful and I really enjoyed it. Definitely a new favorite!

So it was actually the blurb of this book that initially made me so interested to try it. It sounded quite different and that intrigued me...

Emma Cooper is determined to fulfill her mother's dying wish to scatter her ashes with Aiden Sheffield in Linx, Texas.

Just one problem.
Why Texas and who the hell is Aiden Sheffield?

The only clue is a faded piece of her mother's stationary. Emma imagines Aiden is a former love of her mother's, but when she meets the beautiful, damaged stranger, she realizes her assumptions couldn't be more wrong. He's hot and young. And Emma is as confused as ever...

Aidan was an incredibly strong, shy, mysterious character with a brutal past he was desperate to forget that had left his body and mind riddled with scars, a constant reminder of the brutality he survived. As both a former Marine and MMA fighter, he was skilled in combat, but his kind heart and deeply protective nature had him spending his days rescuing dogs from the worst situations. He understood the dogs' pain on a personal level. He'd been where they were at one time and because of that, he was uniquely suited to help them heal and learn to trust again.

“There are over thirty dogs, all of them in need of medical help… I bring out pit bulls, German shepherds, and other breeds of dogs. Some of them come willingly. Others have to be carried. They are wounded and malnourished, broken and barely alive. I coax them with food and warm words and welcoming gestures. I earn their trust, little by little.
I recognize this pain and isolation and hopelessness. These animals and I are not so different. We have membership in the same club, after all."

Emma's unexpected entry into his life completely threw him off. He wasn't expecting to ever see her and he knew their connection even though she had no idea why her mother sent her to him and yet everything about her arrival dredged up painful memories he'd been trying to move past. He was gruff and grumpy - sometimes even rude - but she sensed how good a man he was and didn't allow herself to be put off by his attitude.

I reach a shaky hand towards him. He backs away from me as if my touch will injure him further…
“Who did this to you?” I whisper.
His gaze falls to my hands. His lips turn up in amusement. The expression is so strange until I realize he’s staring at my clenched fists.
“You aching for a fight?”
“Who hurt you, Aiden?” I ask again. My fingernails dig into the flesh of my palm.
He leans closer until his mouth hovers close to my ear. “You gonna fight my demons for me?”

When their lives became further entangled, he agreed to join her on the road trip to honor her mother's wish and as they began to spend more time together, he slowly opened up. As the time passed they began to fall in love - sharing secrets and their heats - but there were still some secrets he couldn't reveal... And the closer they drew to their destination, the more dangerous those secrets became...

“I have a question that’s been freaking me out for awhile now.”
“What?”
“Who are you?”
He looks at me as if he’s wondering if I’m joking. “You serious?”
“She didn’t tell me who you were. Obviously, you’re important to her, and she was important to you. But how did you know my mother?”

(PS: they are not biologically related!!!! For those of you who I know are wondering lol)

OMG!! I have to say that I did not see some of the reveals at the end coming! One of them could definitely be considered a twist and it was a pretty big shocker that made all the pieces of the story fall into place. And holy SHIT, I did not expect things to get as suspenseful and intense as they did in the last few chapters! But I couldn't read fast enough and my heart was pounding. However, by the time I got to the beautiful, heart-warming epilogue, I had happy tears in my eyes :)

The story is told from both Emma and Aidan's perspectives, with a few flashbacks that show Aidan's pasts and the secrets he was trying to keep. To call Aidan's past heart-breaking truly wouldn't be a strong enough statement. He lived through the worst of the worst with nobody to turn to for help. Seeing his past made it so clear why he was left scarred both inside and out, but also made it even more admirable for him to have kept such a kind heart.

“Aiden, you’re the most amazing person I’ve ever met. When someone goes through all the things you did, I’d expect him to be bitter and mean. To have a chip on their shoulder the size of Arizona… [But] you risked your life to fight for me… for everyone in this country. You rescue animals and give them a second life. You are the boy who protected my memories. From the moment I met you, I knew you were more shield than sword.”

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the writing and was very intrigued by the story and connected to the characters. There was the occasional 'filler-y' scene along their road trip that I got bored with and skimmed, and a few parts of the story were a little over-the-top unbelievable but y'know what... this is fiction. I took it as such and just didn't analyze things too closely. The majority of the book was wonderful and I especially loved that once Aidan and Emma got together, they actually became a really solid couple. The majority of the drama in this book was external to their relationship (which is my favorite thing to read) and so all in all I consider this a solid win for me.

For fans of tortured heroes, this is definitely a book you should try. I had a good feeling about this story from the moment I read the blurb and I'm so glad I decided to read it because it is definitely a new favorite!

Rating: 4 - 4.5 stars! Standalone Contemporary Romance.


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[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

This is my first read by this author, and I am so glad I picked this book up! The blurb intrigued me, and I am happy to say that the story was everything that I was hoping for and more. A raw and emotional character-driven story that is both deeply profound and so much fun, with the different aspects balanced perfectly to create a read that had me laughing, swooning and falling in love, at the same time breaking my heart with its dark and gritty drama. It was a wonderfully immersive story, and I loved it!

After tragically losing both of her parents in the space of a year, 20-year-old Emma Cooper is carrying out her mother’s last wishes by seeking out a man named Aiden Sheffield, and travelling with him to the small town of Linx in Texas to scatter her ashes. She has no idea who Aiden is or how he is linked to her mother, but she is determined to keep the promise she made. When she travels to Oregon to find Aiden, he is far from what she was expecting. She assumed he would be a past love of his mother’s, but instead he turns out to be a handsome young man that instantly sets Emma’s heart racing. But far from being welcoming, he is a broody asshole who appears to want nothing to do with her.

Aidan is the hot-guy-romance-hero trifecta – he’s an ex-SEAL, an MMA fighter, and he runs a dog shelter (*swoon*). So from that alone we know he’s tough and strong with a heart of gold. His attraction to Emma is as immediate as hers is for him, but he resents her coming into his carefully constructed life and reminding of a past he has worked so hard to overcome. But he shares some of his past with her, and after she ends up staying at his ranch with him for a few days and he spends some time with her, he knows there is no way that he can allow her to return to the town that almost destroyed him, so he agrees to go with her.

His smile is sad. “You've been carrying it for a long time, Emma. Let someone else carry it for a while.”

Road trip! I freaking love road trip books! There is something about the experiences of travelling, and the intensity of two people being together all day every day that creates a wonderful set up for a romance. Add in the ridiculous chemistry that sizzles between Emma and Aiden, and the stage is set for some awesome fireworks!

I absolutely loved the relationship between these two. Yes, there is darkness and drama, but there is also a fantastic sense of fun, and the teasing, flirting and banter is sensational!

“Do you really think I’d risk my lovelies being strewn all over the internet?”
“Well, no. Wait what do you mean by lovelies?”
The pretty blush crawls across her collarbone. “Shut up. Don’t make fun of my euphemism.”
“You can say a word like euphemism, but not vagina.”
She makes a disgusted face. “It’s an ugly word.”
But it’s such a beautiful thing.
“I prefer to call my stuff lovelies. The bottom line is my lovelies are for my own private enjoyment not public consumption.”
I nod slowly. “Uh huh. How about you replay that sentence in your head again, Cooper.”
“What I said…” She face palms herself. “Shit, it makes me sound like I masturbate a lot.”
“Yeah, it does, but there’s nothing wrong with it. It’s nice we have so much in common.”

The story is written in dual POV so we get to see where both of them are at, and I loved the opportunity to get inside of their heads – experiencing the light and the not-so-light moments right along with them.

I buy us hot dogs and try not to watch Emma eat hers. I’m must full of great ideas these days. Yeah, buy her some phallic food and dare your dick not to jump. What a fun game this is. In fact, why stop here? I’m sure she could go for a banana or, better yet, a Popsicle. Shit, what the hell is wrong with me?

I don’t want to care for her. I want to be indifferent, pretend she does not affect me in any way, but she makes it impossible…because she affects me in every way.

The emotion between them builds quickly but realistically, and I could feel each little shift in their relationship, and I loved every fun, passionate moment of it! From reluctant allies to friends to lovers, their open acceptance of each other, and of all that happens between them, is absolutely beautiful to read.

“There is nothing in the world that can make me forget you. There is no ignoring what I’m feeling. There is no letting you go.”

But their road trip is leading them down a dark path, and as they slowly fall for each other, Aiden starts to open up about his past and all that he has been through, and it is absolutely heartwrenching. This book has some incredibly dark themes and it’s not always an easy read. It’s graphic and disturbing, and there are definitely some triggers to be aware of (physical and emotional abuse of both children and adults), but it’s written with heart and emotion, and it really allows you to understand all that Aiden has been through and how much he has overcome. My heart ached for him, and it made him all the more incredible for being able to open himself up to Emma so completely.

Cut me a break, Emma. I’m in new territory with no map or compass. Give me a second to find my way to you...please.

And that darkness that haunts Aiden so deeply becomes all too real as they reach their destination. Will they be strong enough to face the horrors of the past head-on, or will it destroy them and all that they have managed to build together?

I tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. “Don’t let me lose you.”
“You won’t.”

I loved this book. It’s a heart-pounding ride, and the blend of dark drama and sweet, fun, chemistry-filled, sexy romance is really well done. Emma and Aiden are wonderful characters, and their journey – both literal and figurative – is beautifully written. My heart ached for them and all that they went through, and I feel like I experienced it all alongside them as they deal with the past, experience the present, and move towards their future.

I wasn’t ready to let these characters go, but the book ends in a great place, and I finished this book with a huge grin on my face.

Absolutely beautiful – 4.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Syndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on the goodreads review, I know that this is going to be dark romance novel. And yes it is dark. a bit dark. Especially about Aiden's past. I like the story. I like Aiden. The writting is easy to follow. And has steamy romance inside.

The thing I do not like is the heroine. Emma. She is a very 1 dimensional character. I read a similar romance with dark background like this. Falling away series by Penelope Douglas. But Penelope creates a super kicking ass heroine to match the hero. In Scars between us, Emma is fall so far away. I thnk her character destroy the story.

3 stars.

[Sentranced Jem · Rating 5 out of 5]

M.K. Schiller- The scars between us
Genre: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance, Sociology 

Warning: This book contains flashbacks which may be sensitive to some people.

This book gave me the feels... The Scars Between Us was such an unexpected surprise..in a good way. I have loved every moment of it!

Nothing brings two people together more than experiencing the dark, sick and sadistic horrors of the world OR being 'confined' in car taking a road trip across the country.
Emma and Aiden are such easy characters to care and love for. Wait... actually...who am i kidding? Emma is an easy character to care and love for... Aiden on the other hand.. I wanted to throttle him, atleast during the first few chapters. But once that 'shield' is down, Geez, you can't help but fall for him.

A man's best friend is his dog, in this case it literally is for Aiden. Aiden and his dogs a.k.a the pack were bound together by a series of darkness from their past (FYI Aiden runs an animal rescue shelter called Heavenly Paws, which is more like a home for these animals that have gone through so much physical and emotional abuse)
Emma Cooper on the other is genuinely a sweet and caring person. she's the light that brightens Aiden's Dark world. 
Aiden isn't the romantic type of guy who shows his feelings through declarations of love but rather his actions are subtle yet sweet and profound. Plus he has this gentleness, a kindness that squeezes your heart. Don't get me wrong.. Aiden is an 'alpha' male through and through but his greatest quality is that he has the beauty of courage and humility. I am in awe of Aiden just as much as Emma is of him.
Emma, the beacon of light, she heals the broken roads of the past for Aiden and takes them into a brighter horizon. Emma is silently strong.Granted Aiden has faced heartache and wounds with brutal force, Emma has her own hardships and heartaches with a resilient  force of willpower and strength and I admire her for that.

I have loved this book and the message of kindness and love! Be kind people.. be kind. Like Detective Cole from the book says

" The Thing about love, unlike any other emotion, is that it never dissipates. Once you put it in the atmosphere, it lives there. It travels and floats and goes to places you never imagine. when you love something, you unleash that love on the world."
for more review, check out my blog sentrancedjem

[Chris C - A Midlife Wife · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just fell in love with this book. Something just sparked with me and totally pulled me in.

While the subject is familiar, an ex-military guy with many pains and anger in his life, and a young girl who has no one in the world, this could have very well been a poor me, I am angry at the world book. But instead the author chose to bring these two together through respect, enjoyment, and protectiveness.

This book is full of growing heat, sexy passion, fun, loyalty, and a huge twist that you do not expect at all. I have never read this author before, but this will not be the last book by her that I read. The Scars Between Us is unique and one you will want to read over and over!

Aiden is awesome, the writing is awesome, and this book is going on my Best of list, because I just loved it that much!!

[Lexy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me cry at some points if you like military base books and dog base books you would like this book

[Carlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided via Netgalley

M.K. Schillers latest release is about forgiveness, the kind that changes everything and shapes you into someone new. It's heartbreaking, but hopeful, a book that will put a smile on your face right after you wipe the tears away. Told from the perspective of main characters Emma and Aiden, The Scars Between Us is a complex story that features a well-developed story line and engaging dialogue. It does focuses heavily on some serious subject matter, including emotional and physical abuse, and some readers might find that Schiller's descriptive writing could be a trigger. I found myself aching alongside the characters as their past hurts weighed heavily on them, as they pushed through a sad trip that took them into a life one never wanted to revisit and one never could have imagined.

"His smile is sad. 'You've been carrying it for a long time, Emma. Let someone else carry it for a while.'"

The Scars Between Us was such a fantastic read, it was character driven, and Emma and Aiden have some significant development as the novel progresses. I really enjoyed that the events of the book didn't carry the story, but rather how the character reacted to those events did. Oftentimes a book has just too much going on, but each time a bit of Aiden's past was revealed Schiller focused on how he overcame it, how he used it moving forward, and how Emma had to process it to truly understand how the events affected her life without her even knowing it. Emma's attitude about her mom's true past felt so accurate, though I have never been in a similar situation the writing gave me a sense of what it might have been like. Aiden, on the other hand, is so kind and giving, despite his prior struggles. His wisdom about life is based on a life no child should ever have, yet he makes it through and fights each day to be better. Emma and Aiden's connection is unusual, he's so much more than just the guy her mom asked her to take along when she scattered her ashes. The twists this novel takes, the ugly truths it reveals, only make the book that much more beautiful. As the two face the past they find comfort in each other and they find that trusting another with their story can open the door to love.

"What I want is him. He knows it. I hate him for it."

The events that unfold in the novel are hard to read, they're ugly and raw, things we don't want to imagine, and M.K. Schiller makes these overwhelming scenes come to life. I loved being in the moment, even though it broke my heart to read it. I did find, however, that some of the overly descriptive writing was also a negative. Some of the adult nature of the book was a detriment to the overall story. While the characters are adult, the story feels more coming-of-age than adult, contemporary romance and the smut scenes did feel like a bit too much. Overall though, it is a read that won't leave me anytime soon, I felt like it lived it too.

"It's time to forget the broken roads of the past, and look toward the bright horizon line.
I should know better.
i learned a long time ago, you can't outrun darkness."

The Scars Between Us is my first M.K. Schiller novel, but it won't be my last. It was well-developed and held my interest from start to finish. Contemporary romance fans will love this thought-provoking release about love, loss, and life.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think Schiller is a very good writer. I love her style. She has a way of weaving in humor that is really charming. So why three stars? I really liked the characters and I really liked the idea. I think this might be where an editor should have stepped in to make a few suggestions.

The angst was over the top. It was very hard to suspend disbelief that the abuse went on for all those years and not one person in that town questioned the father's outlandish stories.

Nor was it believable that Amy would leave him there to suffer. Why didn't she bring in outside law enforcement? The FBI even? If the whole town was corrupt?

If I was the editor? I'd suggest finding balance between the pathos to make this more believable. Why not have Amy run with Aiden and leave him with foster care in a different state? This would still allow him his feelings of betrayal that she didn't take him with her. Yet also make more sense for what we've learned about Amy who I can't believe would abandon a helpless child.

The evil dad could have not gone to prison in that bizarrely contrived way but remained angry and free searching in vain for everybody.

This really read over the top. And the final confrontations were also a bit much. I would have suggested combining it in to one situation rather than the two.

The final scenes when the town seems to have woken up from a stupor was odd too.

The author is clearly very very talented. But I do think the editors need to work with her in finding balance.

She found balance in her book "The Do-Over" . However I noticed similar problems with over wrought soap opera plotting in her "Eight Days in the Sun" story.

This author has so much potential. Her romantic dialog reminds me of Lauren Layne in style. Crisp, snappy and fun.

However this reliance on over the top angst bogs the story down. There is nothing wrong with some angst but I really think it needs to be toned down in to more believable levels. This is where I think a good editor could step in and work it through.

[Amber Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

**4-4.5 stars**
When I started this book, I knew it wasn’t going to be a light read judging by the synopsis, but it went even deeper than I thought it would. M.K. Schiller writes about hard, heartbreaking subjects in this one, but it’s also a story of hope, forgiveness and trying to heal emotional wounds; seeing that there can be goodness and love, even with all the ugliness that one can go through.

I really felt for both of Emma and Aiden. Their journey to fulfilling Emma’s mother’s dying wishes was not going to be an easy road, but along the way they found strength in each other. Emma was such a strong character and she could see the goodness in Aiden and that the wrongs of the past didn't make him like his father. Aiden may have tried to put the walls up to protect Emma at all costs from her being exposed to the ugly truths of his childhood, but she would do anything to break through those walls.

One of things I also loved about this book were the dogs. Aiden rescues dogs that have been abused and gives them a loving, safe environment and the hope of adopting them out to their forever homes. I’m a big dog lover and this really touched my heart. They were also really good for Aiden in his adult life. He was wonderful with them and it showed a lot about his character.

Add in some “OMG” moments I didn’t see coming, this book had me totally invested in it.

This is my first read of M.K. Schiller’s and I will continue to read her books in the future. This wasn’t an easy read by any means, but I am glad I read it.

Warning: This story does deal with the subject of abuse.

**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**

[Holly Bryant-Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

[Lynsey is Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

M.K. Schiller - a new-to-me author - delivers an almost perfect New Adult romance with The Scars Between Us.

Emma Cooper's mother has passed away and left her a rather cryptic set of instructions: find a Mr. Aiden Sheffield, and convince him to come to the small town of Linx, Texas, to scatter her ashes. Intriguing, no? Well, I thought so, and it only gets more intriguing as you read and begin to wonder just what exactly is the connection between Aiden and Emma's mother...

I really enjoyed this book. If it weren't for that pesky needing to sleep thing, I'd have read it in one sitting. It immediately draws you in with the question of who the heck is Aiden, and once you actually meet Aiden and see the instant chemistry between him and Emma, you just won't want to stop reading until you find out everything there is to know.

Physically, Aiden sounded absolutely divine, and the swoon factor in this book is pretty darn high. Also, the fact that he rescues dogs was an instant hit with me - love dogs. I wasn't really fussed about the cage fighter aspect, but since this book only covers a few days, that wasn't really a part of the story anyway.

Character-wise, at first glance Aiden appears to have the stereotypical brooding hot guy with a back-story thing going on, but as I read on, I found it was all done really well and didn't seem at all contrived. Once you actually know Aiden's story, you'll definitely accept he has every right to brood and be a little Negative Nancy now and then. His problems are not superficial, and I thought this part of the story was tragic but fascinating.

As for Emma, she was fun. It might seem as though her characterisation wasn't as detailed or as interesting as Aiden's, simply because she's generally just a nice girl who's lived a happy, normal life. We, as readers, live through her rose-tinted outlook and experience each new revelation in this book as yet another blow to the happy bubble she's previously existed in.

The romance I thought was pretty perfect. Although the attraction for both was instant, they don't hop to it so soon you're not emotionally prepared for it (hate it when authors do that). No, I was definitely invested in them both by the time the first kiss happened. I did lots of grinning and even laughed aloud a few times at the dialogue.

So cute.

I'm now going to explain what I meant when I said it was almost perfect, and because this is quite subjective, I thought I'd leave it until the end.

So, having read quite a few NAs at this point, I've come to expect them to be intensely emotional reads, and for there to be at least a section of the book, usually towards the end, that completely emotionally destroys me. That has me lying like a quivering pile of heartbroken goop on the floor, unable to process all the feelings. I'm sure if you're interested in reading this book, you've probably already read a few of them yourself. Those awsome, stomach-dropping "Oh my God" moments that just kill you. In fact, since the cover art keeps reminding me of Travis Maddox, we could easily use Beautiful Disaster as a perfect example of a New Adult book that gut punches you repeatedly until you're crying out for mercy. Now, you see, I like that. Love it, in fact. And in this genre, I kinda expect it now, too. That's not to say this book didn't produce feels, it did. But just not to the heart-shredding degree I crave when I'm in the mood for this genre. Schiller instead opted to keep it more tense and action-y, which is her right to do so, of course. I guess what I'm saying is, I have no actual complaints about what was in this book, but for me, there was just that little something missing from it that kept it from being a 5 star read. Because I'm apparently a masochist.

Still, if you're an NA junkie, maybe a book that's not quite so emotionally draining could be a welcome relief every now and then!

Overall, The Scars Between Us was wonderful book, and I'll definitely be checking out this author's future reads.

4 Stars ★★★★ A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was exactly the book I needed right now! Having been in a bit of a book slump for a few weeks, I was beginning to wonder if I would have another book to add to my Favorite Books of 2017 list, and I am happy to report that this gem is now on that list. It had everything that I love in a story - a scarred hero, a courageous heroine, cute dogs, and a love that surpassed all obstacles thrown in its path. Inspiring and heart-wrenching, it made me believe that while time may not heal all wounds, perhaps true love can.

Emma Cooper is homeless, broke, and in mourning. Following her mother's wishes, she sets out on a road trip to find a man named Aiden Sheffield, who is to accompany her to Linx, Texas to spread her mother's ashes. She expects to find suave casanova who her mother fell in love with years ago, but what she finds instead is a young veteran with scars inside and out, who throws up shields to keep others at a distance. His gruff demeanor doesn't phase Emma, especially when she sees how he treats the dogs with affection at the rescue where he works. Setting out on a reluctant journey to mark the end of her mother's time on this earth, they find something they didn't see coming: a love that will bring them full circle to face their pasts and build a future together.

While both Emma and Aiden created a story that will stick with me for a long time, Aiden was really the star of this book. His emotional journey brought up so many emotions in myself, as I sorted through which emotions were my own remembering of past hurts and which emotions were brought about through my empathy with Aiden. I wanted to climb right into the book and beat the crap out of his father, and eventually, I wanted to scream at Emma's mother for her part in Aiden's pain. I am a huge dog lover, having volunteered at several rescues over the years and grown up with dogs, and I can tell you - dogs are excellent judges of character. As soon as I saw how Aiden interacted with his "pack", I knew this would be a hero against which all future heroes would be measured. Here is a man who, despite all odds, managed to come out of trauma swinging and still have a heart. Emma was a beautiful soul, inside and out, who saw Aiden's true self buried beneath his scars. Once she was able to draw him out with patient compassion and humor, it was amazing to see his character blossom.

This is the first book I have read by this author, and it most certainly will not be the last. M.K. Schiller is a gifted storyteller with an insight into the human soul not often seen in modern literature. I would recommend this book highly to any one of my friends or family. It teaches great lessons of healing, love, and compassion.

**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**

[h o l l i s]

DNF at 25%

I just could not get into this book. This is my first read (well, sorta) by Schiller and it came highly recommended by a friend but I was really bored. And when I wasn't bored I was cringing at some of the cheese dialogue.

It's an intriguing plot -- rescue dogs and an MMA fighter and the woman that finds herself connected to him in a surprising turn of events after the loss of her mother -- but between the writing on the wall RE Emma's boyfriend and the total vagueness of this mysterious evil mystery is in the town they're journeying to in order to spread Emma's mother's ashes.. I just didn't care.

I may try this later when I'm not suffering from total book antipathy but for now it's going in the DNF pile.


** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **

[Ayekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first read by this author and it was by no means an easy one. The book starts with Emma trying to fulfill her mother's last wishes, her ashes to be sprinkled in the lake in Linx, TX. After her mother dies she also finds the name and address of someone her mother told her she needed to go see and ask for forgiveness in her pain medicated induced haze. After her mothers death Emma loses it all. House, no job, packs up the pick up and begrudgly sets off to find the mystery man Aiden, who she entertains her mother having an affair with.
That's not what she finds when she gets to Oregon, she's greeted by Mac, an older man who runs to dog rescue and at first Emma is confused, mistaking him for Aiden. When Aiden does appear, Em just about drops her teeth, he's been out for a run with his dogs, who are his "pack" not unlike his SEAL team. He's rude, belligerent and downright nasty to Em. A SEAL and an MMA fighter, who fights for something to do... and runs the dog rescue. Em rolls with the punches here and Aiden can dish them out. And when he finds out who she is..... puts a whole new spin on things.
She explains to him that she's going to TX and his response is he's rather go to Hell, but she asks him to go with, was what her mother wanted. There's no way he's going back. Until he gets a phone call from his one and only friend still there and he can't in good conscience send Emma there alone. Knowing what awaits her.
This book had so many twists and turns. I did like the way Emma handled Aiden and seemed to draw him out of his permanent state of anger and resentment. Yet there's always an undercurrent there and Aiden isn't exactly forthcoming with her either. I skimmed through the sex. It wasn't necessary to the story and a bit overdone and the dialogue made me choke a little...sounded like, never mind.
When the proverbial hits the fan when they get to Texas, he does tell her a little about his childhood.
Still omitting a great deal and the abuse was appalling as was the violence. Especially with no warning. For people with triggers, they need to be aware that this book does contain serious child abuse as well as violence which also extends to Emma. I'm not sure it needs large warnings, I just think a note to the reader that there is the explicit history and present day as well.
I gave it a 4 because I liked the beginning and the character development to an extent. This one is a tough review for me. I'm on the fence and it's a place I don't like to be as a reviewer.

**arc from NetGalley and Entangled in exchange for a fair review**

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.5/5

From the moody cover to the tumultuous suspense, this book packs so much into this enthralling read. Endeavouring to fulfil the promise she made to her dying Mum, Emma Cooper is heading for Linx, Texas stopping en route to ask Aiden Sheffield to go with her. Only problem to start with is that she has no idea who Aiden is or what his connection is to her mother . . . but that’s a minor problem when you consider what happens as she uncovers secrets from the past and opens herself and Aiden up to the evil that awaits them.

This is a real page turner, with great characters with many facets and secrets. It is a story about grief, changes, danger, heartbreak and forgiveness as well as moving on in life. It is a complex story where only revisiting the past and discovering what really happened can help everyone involved come to terms with events and look forward to the future - if only they can survive the present!

It is a story which involves some difficult subjects, including physical and emotional abuse, the abuse of power and trust and demonstrates how others don’t always know what is happening behind closed doors. It is also a story of an unexpected romance between two scarred individuals, with so many twists and turns! If you enjoy contemporary romantic suspense and can cope with the emotive abusive aspects that the author skilfully brings vividly to life you’ll probably love reading this - I did!

I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.

[Raghad · Rating 3 out of 5]

the beginning of this was slow, Emma and Aiden's journey to Linx to spread her mother ashes started slow, i got more into the story when Aiden started to reveal his past to her, his father abuse and what his relationship with her mom was like, the dog he had, how no one believed him because his father is the sheriff and how he finally let his father stab him so he can call the police and put him in prison. he needed to be badly hurt so people believe he's not the one hurting him self but his asshole father.
we later find out that that Harlan is not Aiden's biological dad but he's emma's, her mother had her before she ran away from Harlan and changed her name. for a second there i thought they are somehow related but thank god they're not.
i liked the home he built for her at the end, it's the same as the childhood home she had to sell to cover her mother medical bills, that was sweet.

[Janja · Rating 3 out of 5]

-3,75-


Fulfilling the last wish for a dying mom brings her to new people, acquaintances and experiences. This is the story of pain, suffering, friendship, people you think you know, but you find out that you don't and of love.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book..was downright fucking amazing!!

The story captivated me very few books can. This journey they went on (literally and metaphorically) uncovered lots of overdue secrets and lies from the past and strengthened the bond between Aiden and Emma though not only them…
I fell in love with that couple very soon and left me speechless as well as crying and sobbing and tearing and breaking and screaming and devastated so many times it became an addiction I couldn’t let go from.

5+ 🌟

[Pamela Lilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What An Unexpected Gem
New to MK Schiller, I wasn't sure what to expect, what I got was another author in my life to fangirl over. What a truly inspirational read. The story follows Emma Cooper shortly after her world has been turned upside down following the death of her mother and the loss of her family home. Fulfilling her mother's dying wish to scatter her ashes on a river in Texas with a complete stranger, she goes on the road trip of all road trips. A road trip that will change her life forever. Aiden Sheffield didn't have a good upbringing in any sense of the word, but with a stint in the marines and his current job working with dogs, he's found his lot in life. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when Emma walks into it bringing his tumultuous past right back with her. A story of tragedy, love, loss and determination. Beautifully written in dual POV, we follow their tormented journey to the place that started it all. With some gruelling scenes, some super sexy scenes and some emotional scenes this book had me gripped rom the very first chapter, and oh, what an explosive end. I sure hope there aren't too many towns like Linx, I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy, evil does exist, and it lives in Linx. A sexy, heartwarming, highly emotional read. I loved it.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Bookgasms Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gahhhhh. I'm trying to catch my breath and sound coherent at the same time. This book was amazing!! So so fantastic. It had humour, passion, love, a broody alpha male (THAT WAS EVERYTHING), a sassy heroine that took all the names while she handed you your ass and SO MANY SECRETS. Lord. The revelations in this book will blow your mind until the very end. It is honestly one of the best books I have read this year because at all times my heart was racing, my nerves were on edge or I had a smile on my face from ear to ear. It was such an incredibly emotional and poignant book that I had to take deep breaths at some points to continue. I could not get enough! 

When Emma Cooper decided to go on a roadtrip to fulfill her mother’s dying wish to scatter her ashes with Aiden Sheffield in Linx, Texas, she never knew it would change her life. She had no idea who this damaged and broody stranger was or the connection he had to her Mother but already on edge and grieving from losing both her parents, she was hellbent on finding out. But what happens when she learns that the secrets and torments from this young Marine's past and his connection to her mother will undoubtedly crush her and change everything?

I absolutely loved this novel! While not being a light read by any means, this novel was filled to the brim with light hearted moments that had me laughing out loud many times. It perfectly balanced the heavy and intense moments with witty, sarcastic and fun back and forth banter. I absolutely fell in love with Emma and Aiden and never wanted their story to end! It was so emotionally captivating that it completely won me over. I felt like I was on a magical journey of two people falling in love, coming to terms with the past and discovering shocking revelations that refused to stay in the dark. All in all this was a breathtaking read as I quite literally am still taking deep breaths upon finishing this book! I know it will stay with me for a long time. Bravo! 4.5 stars! ~Ratula

I would like to thank Entangled Publishing for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review!

[⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm · Rating 2 out of 5]

FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!

This is my first read by Ms. Schiller and I really wasn't sure what I was getting into with it, but I thought it sounded a bit mysterious, so I decided to give it a shot. Unfortunately, I was really bored with most of the book, to the point where I had to force myself to keep reading it.

I had a hard time connecting with the characters overall, which wasn't helped by the alternating point of view. I got confused about who was speaking more often than not! I did get a good connection out of the animal rescue scenes more than any other part of the book, which I don't think was the author's intention! Emma seemed more like a high school student, than a former college one, so I kept having to remind myself of her situation. Aiden's mystery just didn't captivate me like it should have.

All things considered, I'm not that impressed by the author's work and will likely avoid it in the future.

[Romancing Susan (Monti) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often dive into a book blindly without reading the synopsis. So I when got to this line….

“An ex-marine, MMA fighter who rescues abused dogs? That has potential written all over it.”

I told myself, Ah! This will be those kind of books. Who doesn’t love ex-marine, MMA fighter who rescues abused dogs? This has bad boy written all over it. And I love bad boys! But this isn’t the typical bad boy. Aidan has scars that are not only physical which they say can heal faster. Aidan has emotional deep scars, so deep that you can’t help but want to root for Emma, to be Emma. Who is so strong even if she feels lost, has no idea what lies ahead as long as she fulfills her dying mother’s wish to scatter her ashes in a town one has never heard of.

The Scars Between Us is a very un-put-down-able book. My lips were laughing with them, my eyes crying with them, my heart breaking for them. And I should say, my adrenaline was really pumping when I got to the part to which was so unexpected (which I suspect is the reason why I wasn’t able to go to sleep after I was done with the book. Finishing the book in one go, realizing it’s 3AM and you know you have to go sleep as the next day is still a workday but not being able to go to sleep as the book left you with a book hangover. I was really pumped up with the scene! It was like I was watching it in full color. Wanting to go online to write a review ASAP because you’ve got the rush from the book (if only I can, hubby will say I am crazy) IS a true indication is to how good this book is. MK Schiller really did good with this book.

I was given an ARC for an honest review. And I am honored to do one that really does deserve a lot of honest to goodness praises.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
3.5 stars
Only by the end of the book do we grasp the whole meaning and implications of this beautiful title. MK Schiller tells a story about past scars, hurt and violence, counterpointing it with a solid present trust and the unwavering bonds between hero and heroine. But Aiden and Amy’s stories are just so sad.
I really liked both main characters (Aiden and Emma) and the way the romance developed, how they built a consistent relationship between them; what separated them was related to past events and baggage and wasn’t the usual artifices and misunderstandings in New Adult fiction.
I loved how this “wildly beautiful” hero is so strong when he could be just the standard broken and damaged/wounded hero. I loved that he's protective and romantic (singing Gordon Lightfoot’s “If You Could Read my Mind” to Emma), and how he’s so sweet with her, buying her nail polish and candy only because she’s upset.
I also liked that this is also a story about people and dogs, and a road trip, where we get to see a little of the places Aiden and Emma travel through, and, above all, a dark journey into the past.
Having said this, I thought that the succession of facts revealed in the last part of the book, dramatic that they are, make for a bit convoluted plot with some far-fetched dimensions. The evil character is too evil and his reappearance and power seem too “Deus-ex-machina” for my taste.
I really didn’t care much for the sex scenes. And the use of the “f…” word was overdone, if its use was intended to be realistic, then I could do without it.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled Publishing/Embrace, and NetGalley for providing a free copy

[Ana Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great premier this was. I mean, it's always a jump into the unknown when we read one author for the first time because to many thoughts crosses our minds.
MK Schiller is a new author to me and the way this books was written hooked me up sofast that I know that I'll follow her career.
She has an intense, simple and full of meaning writing that will make you feel overwhelmed with everything.
The Scars Between Us tells the stories of Emma and Aiden.
Emma is a sweet girl that had lost everything. Her home, her money and more importantly her Mother. She had lost her goal and after her mom passing she finds herself on the look for the mysterious Aiden. It was her mom's last wish that she and him could spread her ashes.
But here's the thing, she doesn't know him or ever heard about him and her first thought is that this guy is her moms former lover or something... It will be an adventure that's for sure.
Aiden is an Ex Marine and an MMA fighter. He has an hunted soul mainly because his life wasn't easy. He's a reserved man with a golden heart. He works rescuing dogs and what a job...
When the beautiful Emma enters his life he knew it would be bad, it would bring his pain back and the things he wanted to forget.
And I'm not saying another word.
What will happen between this two? Love? Friendship? Hate? Who knows...
This book is so special that you will feel like you're wrapped up with their life's and problems. It's overwhelming their struggles and I was scared, sad but sometimes hope would appear to try to smooth my mind and soul.
I laughed and cried so much that I thought I was going to be insane for a sec.
The interaction between the characters is beautiful, sad, intense and the way the story progressed left me anxious and nervous.
But this is not a bad thing, please don't think that I didn't liked the book because I did, but the emotions that this book made me feel were overwhelming.
I loved every second if it, despite wanting to get into the book and hit someone...
Thank you MK for this brilliant story and I can't wait to read another book from you.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Mayra M · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

[HMS · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Elizabeth Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

**3.5 Stars**

In the past few months, Emma has lost both parents, her Dad while fighting fires, and her mom to cancer. During one of her mom's few coherent days near the end, she asked Emma for two things...to visit a man named Aiden and have him accompany Emma to Texas to scatter her ashes. Emma has never heard of Aiden before, but assumes he was a previous boyfriend. Emma was completely wrong. Aiden is only slightly older than her, and was, up until the age of six, her mom's stepson.

Aiden, once a Marine always a Marine, is also an MMA fighter and rescues abused dogs. He's also surly, closed off about his past, and refusing to go to Texas with her, but, when Emma's truck refuses to start, he also offers her a place to stay for the night and to repair her truck the next day. But Emma sees through Aiden's protective barrier to the pain he tries to hide. She also knows the attraction she feels for him is mutual, even as she reminds herself she has a boyfriend, Kenneth, though she's been questioning that relationship for a while.

"You've been carrying it for a long time, Emma. Let someone else carry it for a while." - Aiden

In the short time Aiden and Emma spend together, Emma even assisting in a rough and heartbreaking rescue, something changes between them, and before he knows it, Aiden's informing he's going with her, after his fight in three days. What he hasn't told her though is one reason he decided to, Aiden's dad is out of jail, and Emma asking questions could be dangerous.


"It's okay, Aiden. Put down your shield. You've been carrying it for a long time." - Emma

During Aiden and Emma's journey, they continually grow closer, sharing things with each other no one else knows. Aiden struggles with the secrets he's hiding, personal ones as well as those that'll impact Emma and all she's ever known, yet, he can't keep the emotional distance with her he normally uses as a shield. When they detour to see Emma's boyfriend on her birthday, both know things can't stay as they are. Emma breaks up with Kenneth, something she knows was a long time in coming, as evidenced by the news he inadvertently shares with her. However, Aiden, in protective mode for both himself and Emma, pushes her away, but this time he might've succeeded in doing so. Especially when she's misled into believing Aiden has found another, or two, to hold his interest for the night.


One of my favorite lines - "Is this what the Grinch felt like when his heart started growing?" - Aiden

What happens when Aiden's past confronts his hope for the future? How far will Harlan, Aiden's dad, go to see Aiden suffer? Will Emma have faith in Aiden? Will Aiden have faith in he and Emma? Or will he push her away, believing the darkness within him makes him less than? How will Emma react when secrets about her whole life are exposed? Will she let Aiden help her work through them? Or will knowing Aiden kept everything hidden from her be too much to accept, to forgive? Can Aiden and Emma work through it all and find their HEA?

One-click now and follow along as two people, unexpectedly connected, meet and begin building a relationship that will see them through some emotional and dangerous times. As a whole, I liked the premise and characters, as well as the numerous twists and turns, however, as you'll see below, I did have a few issues.

On a purely personal note, having almost every woman Aiden and Emma came in contact with hit on him then, and/or in the past, got very old. Also, though we the reader know Aiden wasn't at all interested in or turned on by the two women at the club that hit on him and led Emma to believe he made plans with them, he doesn't once tell Emma he never even thought about, or wanted to, be with them. Yes, he tells her nothing happened, which she knows because she saw him leave the table to hunt her down, but she believes he contemplated it, which can hurt just as much sometimes. It would've been nice if he broke her of that notion. Lastly, though I understand the demons Aiden was fighting due to his childhood, his back and forth of pushing Emma away then wanting to be with her gave me whiplash, especially as it happened a couple times after they were officially together.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**

[xxoabbey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starting this book I struggled, but as soon as Aiden was introduced and we started learning more about the characters and the past that connects them I was drawn in and it kept me turning the pages and intrigued about where the story was gonna go.

Emma was technically portrayed as little miss perfect in the eyes of Aiden and when it gets down the nitty gritty and all the twists and turns and truths come out to play, makes thing a totally different story.

I finished the book and can say that I enjoyed the romance between the characters, I just felt that the drama factor got a bit to over the top near the end and I was skim reading it so I can see what was gonna happen.

My first read by this author and I would read her again.