How does a man come back from that? How do you right so many wrongs when the choices you’ve made caused those around you so much pain?
My determination to prove I was strong enough and that my mind and spirit was unbreakable, tore my family apart. By refusing to accept the help I so desperately needed, I caused irreparable damage to the people I loved the most.
After everything I’ve done I didn’t think life would give me a second chance. But then I met Courtney. A beautiful woman with a troubled past, and scars that mirror my own. A woman who somehow manages to breathe new life into my soul.
Now I can’t help but hope that this might be my chance to make things right.
Frances Paul is an author of emotionally charged, high-stakes fiction that captivates readers with its mix of psychological suspense, romance, and intricate plotting. Her work explores the fine line between love and survival, delving into themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the secrets we keep.
She is the author of Sea of Scars, a moving story of loss and redemption, and The Black Rose, a gripping psychological thriller that draws readers into a world where trust is dangerous and every choice carries lasting consequences.
With a distinctive voice and a cinematic style, Frances creates unforgettable characters and layered narratives that linger long after the final page. Her passion for storytelling comes from a lifelong fascination with the human heart and its capacity to endure even in the darkest of circumstances.
Sea of Scars is written from two different points of view. One is from that of Courtney Peterson. A woman who has had a rough go at life from childhood. She has been through the horrors of foster care and all types of abuse. And "happily ever after" didn't ensure her happiness. We also follow from Zachary Reid's point of view. He bravely served in the Marines, witnessing many horrors, and now suffers from PTSD. This causes many problems in his home life and sets him on the path to meet Courtney. Somehow these two broken souls manage to save each other's lives in many different ways.
Sea of Scars is a contemporary romance novel by Frances Paul. It was a fairly quick read but deals with very heavy, serious topics such as PTSD, abuse, rape and suicidal tendencies - so, I would caution possible trigger warnings.
Sea of Scars takes place in current times, in a big city with a cultural, artistic focus, and many classy restaurants and shops. In the spirit of honesty, as this is a review, I did not like either main character at the beginning of the book. Halfway through I started warming up to Courtney - as her character began to develop into a whole new person; growing from the trauma and horrors of her past. By the end, I felt like Zachary redeemed himself and I was at peace with his character. I definitely wish the character development had been explored deeper, as I felt like things were kind of rushed at some points. I really would have liked to explore Courtney's acceptance of the past and how she grew from that simply than her stating that she has done so. I also would have liked to know a lot more about Zachary, as his character is very complicated in his emotions; I feel like his depth was lost.
Frances Paul is clearly very knowledgeable in the topics and places that were discussed throughout this novel. While I wish some things had been discussed further to really completely immerse the characters in the situation, Frances did a fantastic job hooking the reader in and connecting them to the story. Zachary and Courtney take a beautiful trip together, that Frances either did phenomenal research on or has visited herself. Either way, it is truly an inspiration.
DISCLAIMER: This book made me cry. According to Frances, it has made several people cry. Halfway through the book, I became teary eyed as Courtney's life is just brutal. By the end I was absolutely bawling. This does not mean that this book is not happy, there are very happy aspects to it!
I really enjoyed Frances Paul's writing style and her ability to immerse the reader into the story. I would definitely recommend Sea of Scars to others, especially those who like contemporary romance. I would rate this 4.5 stars out of 5.
To celebrate the five-year anniversary of my debut novel, Sea of Scars, I'm thrilled to announce its relaunch! This captivating Military Romance, which touched so many hearts, will now be available in paperback, hardcover, eBook, and audiobook formats. I'm excited to share this incredible story with even more readers.
I lost everything. My job. My family. My life…my sanity.
In Frances Paul's poignant and gripping novel, Sea of Scars, we are introduced to a protagonist who has hit rock bottom. His story is one of loss and despair, but also of hope and redemption. As we gear up for the much-anticipated relaunch of this compelling tale, let's delve into the heart-wrenching journey that awaits readers.
A Story of Loss and Redemption
Sea of Scars tells the story of Zachary Reid, a man who has lost everything: his wife, his kids, and his honor, suffering a dishonorable discharge from the Marines. In his quest to prove his strength and resilience, he only managed to dig a deeper hole of despair, leading to devastating consequences for those he loved most. His refusal to seek the help he so desperately needed caused irreparable damage, leaving him in a sea of regret and guilt.
A Glimmer of Hope
Just as he starts to believe that life has abandoned him, he encounters Courtney Peterson—a stunning woman with a tumultuous history and scars that reflect his own. Their shared damage is profound, prompting him to question whether their bond represents true hope or mutual downfall. Yet, amidst these doubts, Courtney infuses his spirit with fresh vitality, sparking a faint hope that perhaps, he has received a second opportunity to amend his life.
Themes of Strength and Vulnerability
Frances Paul masterfully weaves themes of strength and vulnerability throughout Sea of Scars. The protagonist's journey is a powerful reminder that acknowledging our weaknesses and seeking help is a true sign of strength. Courtney's character serves as a beacon of hope, showing that even the most broken among us can find healing and redemption.
Why You Should Read Sea of Scars
The upcoming relaunch of Sea of Scars is more than just a second release; it's an opportunity for new readers to discover a deeply moving story and for previous readers to reconnect with its powerful themes. This novel is perfect for anyone who has faced their own battles with loss and pain, and for those who believe in the power of second chances.
In addition to the relaunch of the print and digital versions, Sea of Scars will now be available as an audiobook, performed by the talented James Scott. Scott's voice brings a new dimension to the story, capturing the raw emotions and complexities of each character with remarkable dedication. His performance is sure to enhance the reader's experience, making the journey through "Sea of Scars" even more immersive and impactful.
Frances Paul's Sea of Scars is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It is a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to overcome their own personal demons.
Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the transformative journey of Sea of Scars. This is a story that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, and with James Scott's captivating narration, the audiobook promises to be an unforgettable experience
Frances Paul is a new to me author, and I'm in awe of her right now. So much so, that I didn't really want to write a review right after I finished, and I don't mean that in a bad way, but more of a, how the hell do I actually convey the true beauty of what I experienced, way. See, I tend to make light of those emotional reads, joking about my eyes leaking, but I'm going to be straight here, Sea of Scars made me literally ugly cry. There's no other way to describe it, you know what I'm talking about...that whole swollen eyes, snot slinging, choking situation?! Yeah, that's what I had going on. There's something to be said about going on a journey with broken characters who learn to not let the past define them, and it's utterly beautiful to me, as it's something that I struggle with on a regular basis. And Ms. Paul wrote it so realistically that I had to take breathers to be honest, because she was writing it to all of us in my opinion. Maybe not with the exact same life situations, but the message works for everyone. It brought out all of my extreme emotions, so I was exhausted in the best ways by the end. The story is the epitome of book hangover, and I'll never be the same. So all that's left for me to do is HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
This is not a book for the faint of heart or those that may have triggers to certain situations so please read with caution. Zachary is former military and is having challenges dealing with being back with his family after serving. Courtney is a woman dealing with a marriage that has become difficult. Each one is diligently working towards creating a better life. When their paths intersect, they learn more from each other than they thought possible with one caveat. Ms. Paul has written a stunningly beautiful, heart wrenching story that reads true to life. Make sure to have tissues handy. I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
Sea Of Scars was not just an interesting and emotional book, but it sends a great message to never give up, but keep fighting. We never know, what life has for us. I really liked the characters, both Zachary and Courtney, you cheered for them and cried for them. It is another good thing about Sea Of Scars, how it surprises you in the end, when I started reading it, I guessed not this end, even that I find it good. Shortly, I liked Sea Of Scars and I can recommend it, mostly to those, who like romance.
Oh Wow....God Bless you for writing this wonderful book. I cried through about half of the book. And this book made me realize how fortunate I am to have love and family in my life. My heart went out to Courtney and Zachary as well. The love they shared was so special and a real healing to them both. And you brought attention to what so many of our military personnel have to live with daily, PTSD. Something that is so often misunderstood or a silent disease that no one wants to acknowledge. I highly recommend this book to you all, grab your kleenex, sit back and enjoy this great book...I sure did.
This book has both stories from Courtney and Zachary and how they came from being broken to healing together when they became a couple. Courtney has had a very hard life and has overcome everything she was forced to endure since childhood. Zachary was in the military and like a lot of our military personnel came home with PTSD and denied he had a problem until he had lost everything that he loved and was forced to get help.
This is the first book I have read from Frances Paul and I guarantee it will not be the last. Thank you again Mrs. Paul for writing this book and for letting me read it. I highly, highly recommend this book to you all.
I got this book from Book Sirens and will be happy to leave my review.
This book left me filled with angst, heartbreak, and tears, especially through the emotional journey of the FMC, Courtney. Zachery, an ex-military man with severe PTSD, is ordered into therapy while going through a painful divorce. His traumatic childhood, war experiences, and perception of the world’s injustices cause him to lash out at those closest to him.
During his therapy sessions, he meets Courtney, and he is inexplicably drawn to her. She provides him a rare sense of calm amidst the chaos in his life. Their relationship, however, doesn’t follow the traditional happy ending we often see in romances. Instead, it’s a deeply introspective and emotional journey of self-reflection, growth, and healing from traumatic scars.
To be honest, the first few chapters were almost too much for me due to their intense and graphic nature. I nearly stopped listening, but I’m so glad I pushed through. The story was captivating, and the depth of emotions had me in tears multiple times. Frances Paul masterfully portrayed the rawness of trauma, healing, and what it means to find peace in an unconventional way.
"Sea of Scars" more like Sea of Emotions because that is exactly how I felt while reading this book. From feeling anxious, angry, sad, happy and everything in between. I have so much to say and share about this book but for now I will write a small review.
The MMC "Zachary", is an ex-Marine suffering from PTSD after two traumatic overseas deployments. Zachary experiences blackouts that lead to physical assault against his wife, hurting their marriage. The FMC "Courtney", is a caring woman who has been beaten up by life way too many times. Courtney met the love of her life, however happiness did not last long. During their marriage, she lost herself and endured domestic violence coupled by other strong assaults by the hands of her husband.
This book tells the story of how this two broken people find each other in an unconventional way, while trying to better themselves. Without a doubt, some bumps are present on the road. At the end, it shows how the MMC and FMC fulfill their purpose in life. It also reminds us that there's no change without actions.
Some trigger warnings you should be aware of are: PTSD, sexual assault, *ape, domestic violence, cancer and grief.
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would.
This is the second book I have read by Frances Paul, and although the two books couldn’t be more different on subject matter, what I found to be consistent is that they are unpredictable and far from typical. Sea of Scars is a good story, but not a light-hearted, happy-go-lucky one. It deals with many serious subjects, such as spousal abuse, PTSD, mental health, and substance abuse, which could be triggers for some.
Yes, there is a lot of sadness, distress, and tragedy in the story. It’s a tale of bad things happening to good people, but it’s also about forgiveness, real love, and the growth that comes with learning from past mistakes. It’s about the possibility of hope for all the broken characters and the happiness of moving forward, which makes this not your typical, second chance romance.
At times this was not an easy read for me, but at the same time I couldn’t put it down. I found myself engrossed in it. As for the ending, I would describe it as bittersweet rather than a HEA, but satisfying nonetheless.
I was given a free ARC through Booksirens, and appreciate the opportunity to give this voluntary and honest review of Sea of Scars.
This book was beautifully heartbreaking! I cried and I do not cry easily when it comes to books. Definitely not a book for the faint of hearts. This books gives off the "Don't give up" "Keep fighting" message and I love that. Sea of Scares was my first book by Frances Paul and I am excited to read more of her books!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Well written, emotionally challenging, well-developed story
Oh, my! What an incredible read. Tears were streaming through many chapters! Such love, compassion and encouragement to be a better person! You must read this!
What an amazing book. Full of life drama and loss. Strong characters that felt like family as they were going through the pain. It's one of the very few books that have actually brought tears to my eyes. A fantastic author.
Zachary is suffering from PTSD and has pushed his family away. He isn't able to see his children until he gets some counseling. He is in a very bad place.
Courtney walks into the same counseling office carrying a troubled past of her own.
Can they heal each other's scars?
This is a book about working through your past, forgiving yourself and opening yourself to love.
It was a wonderful book. Very emotional and moving and a beautiful love story. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reviewed on Behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blogs
Sea of Scars is written from two different view points.
Courtney Peterson is the first view point and is a women who had a rough life straight from childhood spending time in care and suffering different types of abuse. Because of this she doesn’t believe in relationships or in happy endings.
Zachary Reid is the second point of view. He served in the Marines and saw horrors that no one should see and now suffers with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This causes issues in his home life and leads him on the path to eventually meet Courtney and two broken soles just might save each other and become whole.
I struggled to like either character till part way through the book and started to warm to. Courtney as she began to heal and change and by the end of the book I felt that Zachary had won back he good guy status. Some of the character development I felt was at times rushed and I would have liked Courtney’s character to show more of how she accepted her past and developed. I also would have liked to know more about Zachary so maybe it would have been better having two separate books so we could have explored each character in more depth.
Sea of scars , beautifully written by Frances Paul. This book packs the real emotional punch that will have you doing what I call the ‘ugly cry,’ particularly if you are reading this book in public.”Trust me I did,yet elevates you to chase ultimate gratitude in life . The characters unfold a story of love ,faith,trails ...the list goes on.
Frances Paul highlights a quote we should always live by , Tomorrow is not promised and the past cannot be changed therefore live each day to the fullest and know that every new day is a blessing"-Nisha Panwar .
Courtney Greene Peterson,Zachary Ried and William Peterson made broken look beautiful. This is a must read grab your copies now .
I am in awe of this exceptionally talented author!! This is a beautifully written story which has a fantastic and detailed plot with complex and broken characters. The moral of this story is don’t let the past define you, live life to the fullest each day! This story is an emotional roller coaster ride, and is heartbreaking, intriguing and with surprises and love. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I cannot wait to read more of this authors’ work, which I highly recommend for all readers.
I got this book as an ARC for an honest review and this is my first book I have read by the author.
This is definitely a very emotional book for sure! Be sure to have tissues on hand when reading this one. It was a heartbreakingly beautiful story. It took me sometime to get into as I personally had some issues with the heroine but I got why she did the things that she did.
Now as for the hero, Zachary, he broke me. His issues are sadly real issues in life and it is hard to even imagine that. But it warmed my heart how he turned out in the end of the book.
This book is fantastic , so intriguing and a definite page turner! I highly recommend this book to all
The author did a brilliant job with a well written plot and relatable characters . This books draws out all your emotions , leaving you elated , angry and sad all in one breath
I totally enjoyed this book and can’t wait for another book from this author ! All in all a fantastic and excellent book - Shirley B
This is Zachary Reid's story of all the things he goes through and the woman Courtney Greene Peterson that came into his life when he needed her. Zachary had lost everything when they meet but she was able to show him that he had value. This is a tear jerker so keep the Kleenex near. Courtney was in remission from cancer when they first met. This is a new Author to me. I recommend this story.
I found the book a bit slow for me. It dragged in parts and I don't personally enjoy the writing style. It does a good job highlighting domestic abuse and Vet issues. Not my cup of tea, but others may enjoy it. It does read more like a contemporary lit than straight romance.
This was a beautiful story about love, faith, and forgiveness. Two broken people who find each other and heal each other. What a remarkable story!! Get the tissues out and read!!!!
"Sea of Scars" offers a raw and honest journey through the lives of Zachary and Courtney, two souls battered by life's tempests yet resilient enough to seek solace in one another. This gripping tale of love and healing will move you deeply, reminding us all that even in our darkest moments, there is strength to be found in connection. Grab your copy today and prepare to witness the transformative power of vulnerability and courage.
Imagine living each day haunted by memories of violence and betrayal, feeling trapped in a cycle of pain with no escape. The emotional toll is overwhelming, leaving you isolated in your struggles, yearning for understanding and connection. How do you find the courage to fight for a brighter tomorrow when everything seems lost?
"Sea of Scars" is more than just a novel; it's an emotional journey that resonates with anyone who's ever felt broken by life's challenges. Follow Zachary and Courtney as they navigate their tumultuous pasts, finding solace and strength in each other’s vulnerabilities. This poignant story offers tears, growth, and hope, showing that even the most wounded hearts can find healing. Dive into "Sea of Scars" and witness the power of resilience and love on the path to redemption.
Amazing narration from James Scott, who bring out all the emotions, know to man. Not forgetting the angst and drama.
Zachary Reid is struggling from PTSD after witness his brothers in arms killed and his family abuse. We also meet Courtney Greene Peterson, who has her own horrors from her past and now struggling with a abuse husband. A man who she thought was going to be her life line. When these two meet Zachary had lost everything and she is hiding from William her husband. Courtney makes Zachary see his PTSD is something that can be helped and for him to see true worth. when they meet but she was able to show him that he had value. This romance is of two broken souls who find peace and save each other. At first I was not sure how I would feel for Zachary but at the end I felt for him. Thanks to Courtney. This book has a gentle and happy ending. But you will need tissues and boxes of them. The emotions in this book and topics will have you crying and believing in goodness as well. Remember tissues.
1.5 stars. There’s the seeds of something with maybe solid potential in here, but it needs some work to really deliver that potential. The topics are important ones, and heavy - PTSD, domestic violence, cancer. But it just felt like words on a page being said just for the sake of the storyline. There wasn’t depth on the topics. Aside from the grammatical and formatting errors, the writing felt formal and sterile which made it impossible for me to connect with the characters. Tragic stories, yes, but lacking any sort of real emotion because of how stiffly it read.
This book was definitely an emotional roller coaster, 2 people with terribly painful pasts meet by chance thru a lot of misunderstandings find a way together. Zachary is ex military with very strong PTSD he couldn't keep his wife safe she she is divorcing him, but wants him to have a relationship with their kids. Courtney is hiding from her abusive ex-husband with a very low self esteem due to her upbringing. So much tragedy on these 2 characters but such a beautiful tragic story.