Leaving was the only thing Mavis Butler could do, after speaking words that she refused to recant. The need to find a safe haven away from the soul-shattering poverty which threatened to destroy the very fabrication of her spirited disposition uppermost on her mind. Despite her desires to stay in a place of familiarity, she finds the strength to escape, to pack her bags and never look back. Ed Proctor spent his life running away from his abusive father until one afternoon shifts the very foundation of his existence, tearing him away from his solitary life and into Mavis’ arms. Hidden secrets, deep scars, and forbidden tales of pain, torture, and shame enables both Mavis and Ed to leave the little town of Brewton, Alabama, to head up north to Pittsburgh, PA., a new realm of opportunities. With so much turmoil penetrating their hearts this journey of love and completeness seems too good to be true, will their love be enough for their survival? Only time will tell.
Read for the HHR (Historical Romance Readathon 2021). This wasn't what I was expecting and I think that it could use some work, but I did enjoy the historical setting. CW: racism, racial slurs, off the page rape, violence, abuse from parental figure. 2.5 Stars
Scarred is a inspirational historical romance so if you're looking for hot and steamy scenes this isn't the book for you. It delves heavily into faith and religion and is a major part of the lives of the main characters. I think that I had a hard time with this book because it felt a little disjointed. In some sections I couldn't really tell whether it wanted to be a historical fiction or a historical romance. Quite honestly I enjoyed the historical elements. The romance was a little different. I didn't realize until the end of the book that Mavis and Ed were actually introduced for the first time in another book that's not necessarily related to this book. When we get to the opening chapter of the book it does feel as though the reader should know who Mavis and Ed are which can be confusing since this book is marketed as a stand alone. They work well as friends, but I wasn't invested in their romance at all. There was particular scene that happens to Mavis in the book and it bothered me the way that it was handled. It's not on page and is barely hinted at, but it appears traumatic and it was awkward the way it was handled after the fact. Also, Mavis' mother is abusive and while I believe that the author was attempting to weave in the concept of forgiveness, it comes off as justification for the abuse from the lens of Mavis' eyes. One of my favorite aspects of this book was the manner in which Mavis and Ed did care for each other. Their romance didn't meet my expectations; however, their compassion and care for each was nice to see. I'm hoping that maybe there is more that can be done with this story. Overall, I liked the historical messages that Braddy was giving to readers; however, it needed some editorial work as well as a restructing of the romance between the main characters.
I really liked the writing, tone, and characters of this story! It’s almost like a classic.
It’s a Southern romance about overcoming racial tension, sexual assault, abuse, and family struggles while showcasing, too, blessings that Mavis and Ed receive along the way.
This is my first book from this author, a first of many! Her characters pull you in, leaving you wanting more of the lovely story of Ed and Mavis. The descriptions are vivid and writing is smooth. You won’t be disappointed!
There are some errors in this story but they're not so horrible that they take away from the story.
This is my first read from this author and it was pretty good. It take place in the late 1950s. Mavis and Ed are 2 youngsters who have fallen in love despite the fact that her mom is against it. One night in the local store changed everything for these 2.
The chapters are short and based on each character's point of view. The author did leave me with some questions that I'm assuming will be answered throughout the rest of the series. I would read the rest of this storyline
I absolutley loved this short read! I finished it quickly and the author had me hooked the entire story. It was meaningful and the characters were amazing. I enjoyed reading what shaped them as they appear in later books in this collection. They made it through many struggles and remained strong. I loved this book.
3.5 stars The plot is about two friends (Mavis and Ed), who have experienced hardships in their lives in Alabama. They are searching for a better life up North during the time period before the civil rights era. This is a touching story. Mavis and Ed are falling in love but they need to get past trials and tribulations, together, in order to truly be happy. I did enjoy the story, although it was shorter than I would have liked. While I like the cover art, it doesn’t line up to the time period of the story. I received a copy to review for the RSJ Book Lovers' Convention.
This Novella is an AMAZING read, It leaves you wanting more!!!! Ed and Mavis are two great characters and the love they have for each other is a selfless unconditional love that only happens once in a life time! I would definitely recommend this book and any book by the Author!!! Roe Braddy style of writing reminds me so much of a Mary Monroe. I'm truly a fan of Roe Braddy!! I actually read the Novella in one sittingp, I could not put it down!!! Again this was an Amazing Read!!
What a sweet historical love story of triumphant courage that looks much like our world today ED and Mavis endure so much at a young tender time in their lives when one would enjoy the tender moments of life, left with the weight of a devastating decision that affects not only them but their family and the people involved what a heavy price to pay a good read.
Roe Braddy is an amazing storyteller! The character development is on point, and their story will leave you wanting to know more about them. Mavis and Ed are an example of love conquering anything!
This book captures your attention right from the beginning. I couldn't wait to get to the end. Scarred could absolutely be a movie! The Author is very thorough with her description of the scenes and characters. Bravo Roe Braddy!
This was so beautiful. I loved the tenderness of the two characters. Davis and Ed were beautiful. I can't wait to read the next book. I would highly recommend.
This book was gifted to me. I read this book in less than 2 hours. This book kept my attention. It kept me turning the pages and wanting to see what would happened to Ed and Mavis at the end.