Fragile Scars

Fragile Hearts #1

by Lilian Harris

SOMETIMES THE DEEPEST SCARS ARE THOSE NO ONE SEES.

Damian

I swore I'd never love anyone. But that all changed when I met Lilah, my new neighbor.

One look at her deep blue eyes and shy, teasing smile, and all I want to do is take her in my arms and protect her forever. The attraction between us is undeniable. The passion she stirs in me is like nothing I've ever experienced.

There's only one thing stopping me--the man who calls himself her boyfriend. The one who lies to her. The one who hurts her.

I'll do anything to get her away from him.

If only I can get her to trust me first.

Lilah

I may appear to have it all--a great job, a cool apartment, a gorgeous boyfriend . . . but underneath that perfect exterior are bruises left by a monster who claims to love me.

I'd lost all hope of escaping, until I met Damian.

I know I shouldn't want him. I know I shouldn't cling to him like he's my last hope of survival.

But I do it anyway. And it may cost us everything.





Fragile Scars is a steamy contemporary romance with suspenseful undertones and isn't suitable for those under 18. It contains strong language, sexual situations and references. It is the 1st book in the Fragile Hearts series. All the books in the series are interconnected standalone romances with a different couple, but past couples and characters do make an appearance in later books.

Author Note: Below is a trigger warning for those who may need it. Please stop reading now if you don’t want one.



This story contains realistic depictions of domestic violence, as well as sexual and emotional abuse. If these are triggers for you, please proceed with caution.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Dark, Contemporary Romance, Suspense, Abuse, Dark Romance

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 7, 2019

About the author

Hi! I'm only on Goodreads on occassion. You may find me on my website www.LilianHarris.com

Or, connect with me through social media.

Thanks!

MAILING LIST: https://lilianharrisauthor.myflodesk....
BOOKBUB:
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lilia...
AMAZON:
https://www.amazon.com/Lilian-Harris/...
FACEBOOK: facebook.com/LilianHarrisBooks/
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/lilianharrisauthor/
WEBSITE: lilianharris.com
EMAIL: LilianHarrisAuthor@gmail.com

Reviews

[Mali Mor ❤️ The Romantic Blogger · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Fragile Stars! 💔


I still can't believe this is the author's first book, she totally rocked it! 👏

Damian doesn't do relationships. He grew up in an abusive home where his mother suffered from violence by his father on a daily basis - until she was murdered. 💔
Since, Damian keeps a safe distance from love for fear of becoming a monster like his father...
until he moves next door to Lilah. 😍

📚 "𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙨𝙤 𝙨𝙖𝙙, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙨, 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙩. 𝙃𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙖𝙮." 📚

Lilah lives in hell. Her boyfriend since college, Ash - has been verbally and physically abusing her for years and she doesn't know how to get out of that circle. 😭
When Damian moves in next door, he becomes her protector and tries to make her realize she deserves more than what she let herself believe – but Lilah is trapped by a painful secret that keeps her with Ash. 😱😱😱

Why doesn't Lilah leave? What does Ash have on her? And what will the connection between Damian and her lead to? Will it grow to be more than friendship? 🙏❤

📚 “𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤— 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚.” 📚

It was a great book, but there were some things that bothered me. First, the quick connection between Lilah and Damian was unrealistic... for a woman who lives in an abusive relationship for years - her physical attraction to Damian (a man she doesn't know) was illogical. 😬

📚 "𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩 𝙗𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤'𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧." 📚

While I can't judge because I've never been in a violent relationship (thank goodness), usually women stay because of love - and they blame themselves for everything. I won't expose for fear of spoilers, but that wasn't the case here, and it made her weak in my eyes. 😬
Even though I liked Damian's protective character - the contrast between his fear of a relationship and the strong desire to be exclusive with Leila was a bit strange... 😱
And finally, although the ending was good, it felt missing. Lilah did find true love and the happy ending she deserved, but apart from a "healthy" relationship- she didn't go through a healing process and I wanted to see her deal with everything she went through! ❤

📚 "𝙃𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙖𝙮. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙄 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙, 𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙙𝙖𝙮." 📚

Nonetheless, I have to give the author credit for her courage on writing about such a painful subject in her first book. 👏
She did a great job researching the subject and even managed to add romance, passion, humor and a surprising twist that I never saw coming! 🔥🐻

This book made me feel so many emotions - pain, anger, frustration, hope and love. ❤ And Damian... Good god! He was a great male character, a tough broken alpha but also sensitive and romantic – just the way I like them!!! 😍

I can't wait to read Jax and Lexi's story, in '𝙁𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙚𝙨'! 🎉

*** 𝕀 𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕖𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕟 𝔸ℝℂ 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕣 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒𝕟 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 ***

[Beyond The Covers Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fragile Scars did not turn out completely as I expected it to.  Damian grew up in an abusive household where his father killed his mother.  Now at 30 years old, he moves into the apartment across the hall from Lilah, who is currently being abused by her boyfriend.  Damian and Lilah soon begin a bit of a complicated relationship that becomes very intense, very fast.  Damian sees the abuse that Lilah is suffering and does what he can to protect her and get her removed from the situation.  The only issue I had with Fragile Scars is how quickly Lilah is able to assimilate from one relationship to another with basically no time in between.  That was a little too unrealistic for me, even in a work of fiction.  Otherwise this was a total page turner that had you eagerly awaiting what would happen next with unexpected (albeit good) twists and turns.

[⭐Toonasa⭐ •Romance Book Lovers' Haven• · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Heartfelt & Intense Neighbors-to-Lovers romance with ALL THE FEELS, Tragic Past, Hurting, Fun meet, Life-changing Hope, Fighting for Love, Against Abuse, Heart-racing times, Spice & Steam, Swoons, & deserving HEA.
I love Damien & Lilah so much! They've endured so much...*Tears*. Definitely adhere to the Author's trigger warning!
#My 1st by Lilian & I'm binging the series! DEVOURED this one in 6hrs.

Full RTC soon!

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.

Sometimes we let other people's darkness dull our light. And they inflict wounds that you cannot see at first glance.


As soon as I ended the epilogue, I knew it would be a book that would provoke many emotions. From anguish to despair, from tears and smiles. The theme of this novel is about domestic violence, contains strong language and non-consensual sexual relations. Without ignoring the forbidden romance, which for some may not be to their liking. If these topics affect you, don't venture to read it. If you are not afraid to read a girl who finally fights her fears and takes charge of her life, if you are not prejudiced by the decisions she makes, go ahead. I assure you it is worth reading.

Lilah seems to have a stable life. A job she likes, a seemingly satisfying life and a relationship with her boyfriend Ash, since her first year of college. At the beginning everything went well, but Ash's behavior changed to one of total possessiveness and control. Lilah enters the vicious circle that appears in relationships like this, making her look weak and lacking in character. Until one day she decides to break the chain and try to free herself from a nightmare that was just beginning.

Damian suffered a heartbreaking event in his childhood. One which is revived when he begins to meet Lilah and what she’s facing. Becoming his protector and hero. Someone who has served as support in her life. His knight with armor.

Lilaha and Damian are two broken people, who share things in common. Together they will fight the adversities that are presented to them and that will add suspense and more drama to their relationship. The connection, empathy and love that grows in them will be enough to overcome and achieve their happy ending.

Lilian Harris knew how to touch my heart with this story. Presenting various situations of much sadness, anguish, pain, drama. But on the other hand, it created a perfect balance between overcoming, solidarity, support, friendship, perseverance and love. I have to give credit to her bravery by bringing a theme like this in her debut. He took the risk and that is admirable. A detail in the story that I want to mention is the fact that being Ash an important part in the plot, he did not have his point of view. What might have helped to tie up a loose end, in my opinion. Although I understand the pathology of the controlling and violent man, I think it was necessary to know a little more about him.

I look forward to the second book in this series, Fragile Lies. It is the story of Jax and Lexi. Secondary characters, friends of Lilah and Damian. I have no doubt that it will be a fun and enjoyable read.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!!! So many emotions ran through me! I fell in love with the all of the characters. Lilian Harris has the ability to suck you in with this book, you’ll finish it and crave more! There’s nothing better than a writer who can put you inside the character’s world. Definitely recommend!!!!

[Abstract ♥ Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS



Fragile scars is the first book of the FRAGILE HEARTS STANDALONE SERIES , written by Lilian Harris. Told in dual perspectives , this book was one overwhelming tale of love and loss.

This was a new to me author and I absolutely loved her book! I will be looking forward to reading more of her stuff. This book contains triggers that some might not be comfortable with. It contains abuse scenes and all , and if you aren't comfortable with that , then please don't read this. If you don't have a problem with this book , then by all means , please read this book!!

Here we get to meet Damian and Lilah. Damian was one of the most swoon-worthy heroes I have ever met. He was perfect in every way and had me loving him so much! He grew up in an abusive home , and had his own demons to combat.

Lilah is a sweet soul , who absolutely did not deserve the violent relationship she was currently trapped in. Her boyfriend was one asshole that I would like to slap really hard. He was such a monster.

Now Damian is 30 years old and moves next door to her . When he noticed the nature of her relationship with her boyfriend , he decided to help her out. He does everything he can to protect her , and to get her out of that relationship. Soon they both become close. Now it's up to them both to overcome their demons and seek solace in each other.

This book was an amazing read on a contemporary basis. My heart hurt so much for both the main leads of this book. This book is recommended to all the contemporary romance lovers !!

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[annasbook nookk · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good debut

Not my usual read but i enjoyed this story.
Damien and Lilah make a great story. Both with traumatic pasts, come together and heal each other in their own way.
Such a heart breaking story some of these scenes struck deep.
Triggers a plenty, you have been warned!!

[Mg ♥ The Bookishmedialite · Rating 4 out of 5]

La violencia doméstica no discrimina a nadie. Es un crimen que afecta a miles de personas sin importar la edad que tengas, la religión que practiques, la raza, la orientación sexual e incluso en ocasiones no importa el género. Cualquier puede ser víctima o victimario. El abuso va desde lo verbal hasta lo físico. ⁣
⁣
No minimices, todo tipo de abuso es serio, y NADIE merece ser víctima de ello. ⁣
⁣
Fragile Scars by Lilian Harris es un libro que trata sobre el abuso que sufre Lilah en su relación, y como sin importar el soporte que tiene, tanto de amigos como familiares, puede terminar con ese círculo vicioso. ⁣
⁣
Un buen libro, con una trama real y el final feliz que Lilah merecía, solo me hubiera gustado leer un poco más sobre su proceso de recuperación, como lidió con ello, etc; creo que hubiera sido un muy buen plus en la historia. ⁣
⁣
Aplausos para la autora que tuvo la valentía de tocar un tema muy sensible y doloroso en su primer libro! ⁣
⁣
Si sufres de violencia, recuerda que no estás sola (o). No te quedes callada (o), REPORTA! ⁣
⁣
————————————♥—————————⁣———⁣⁣⁣⁣
⁣
Domestic violence does not discriminate. Anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender can be a victim, or sometimes the perpetrator. It can happen to people who are married, living together, or who are dating, and it could go from verbal to physical abuse. ⁣
⁣
Each type of abuse is serious, and no one deserves to experience it.⁣
⁣
Fragile Scars by Lilian Harris is a story about Lilah’s abuse, and how even with all the support she had, she couldn't get out of that circle. ⁣
⁣
A good story with a deserved happy ending! The only thing I felt it was missing was Lilah’s healing process, personally, I would have loved to read it. ⁣
⁣
Anyway, kudos to the author for touching such a painful subject in her first book! ⁣
⁣
If you are a woman or a man in an abusive relationship, it’s important you know that you’re not alone, and you don’t need to suffer in silence. ⁣
⁣

[Nerdy Dirty & Flirty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fragile Scars by Lilian Harris is one of those books that takes you on an emotional journey.

This book was heavy on the angst and had lots of heavy moments. It had some scenes that I'm sure might be hard for some to read due to their graphic nature, but the author warns of this. I knew it going in so wasn't surprised. It was written in such a way that told the horror of what was happening, but also was important to the story. I didn't feel like those scenes were just for shock value.

This book had an insta-love feel to it although after reading the full book I realize that's not completely true. Damien and Liliah, the main characters in this book, have a very interesting relationship. It was born surrounded by hurt and loss and negativity, but it grew despite all that. It grew to be something strong and really sweet.

In the end I found that this was a pretty good story. I think the only thing I wished could have been developed on was more actual time with the main characters getting to know each other that wasn't steeped in so much of the physical aspect and wasn't so shadowed by her violent relationship.

[Sophie Ruthven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow.
This was a new to me author and one I will definitely be reading more from.
What a heart felt emotional story with a plot and characters that will stick with you for years to come.
You'll never guess that this was the author's debut book.
Prepare to go on a rollercoaster of emotions with every page.
One click now!!

[Judith/books.series.forever · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spanish:
“Fragile Scars” de Lilian Harris es el primer libro perteneciente a “Fragile Hearts Standalone Series”. Este libro es un romance apasionado contemporáneo, pero con una historia llena de abusos físicos y psicológicos que puede no ser adecuado para algunos lectores.

Desde fuera se puede ver que Lilah lo tiene todo, un buen trabajo, un novio precioso, pero nada es lo que parece. Mientras hace frente a esta vida que nada tiene que ver con lo que muestra en el exterior, conoce a Damian que también esconde un pasado tormentoso. Damian se da cuenta de lo que ocurre en la vida de Lilah y a la vez se esta enamorando de ella, pero todo alrededor se va desmoronando poco a poco.

Este libro fue muy inesperado en el bueno y en el mal sentido. Me explico, la vida y la historia de Lilah es desgarradora, dolorosa e incluso desbordante, pero al mismo tiempo el libro esconde una visión de algo que sufren muchas personas sin depender de edad y sexo. Por ello, le doy la enhorabuena a la autora por escribir una historia tan dura pero que pueda servir de ayuda en algo. Lilah está sufriendo día tras día esa tormentosa relación y sinceramente, es el primer libro que no puedo juzgar a la protagonista ya que sus acciones son justificadas por las situaciones. Desde un tercero se puede juzgar y no entender como no huyó, pero solo la persona que lo sufre en este caso Lilah puede hacerlo. También Damian tuvo un pasado turbio igual que Lilah, pero por lo menos él no dejó de lado a Lilah como lo habían hecho en el pasado con él. Inesperado fue el momento del peluche, pero fue una grata sorpresa. Después de este libro estoy deseando lo que les deparará a Jax y Lexi en el siguiente libro.
También tengo que recalcar la nota de la autora “Para todos los que están con un Ash, pero se merece a un Damian. Nunca es demasiado tarde” 🔝
⚜Rate: ★★★★★



English:
"Fragile Scars" by Lilian Harris is the first book in the "Fragile Hearts Standalone Series". This book is a steamy contemporary romance, but with a story full of physical and psychological abuses that may not be appropriate for some readers.

From the outside, you can see that Lilah has everything, a good job, a beautiful boyfriend, but nothing is what it seems. As she faces this life that has nothing to do with what she shows in the exterior, she meets Damian, who also hides a stormy past. Damian realizes what is happening in Lilah's life, and at the same time, he's falling in love with her, but everything around him is crumbling gradually.

This book was very unexpected in a good and bad way. Let me explain, Lilah's life and the story are heartbreaking, painful and even overwhelming, but at the same time, the book hides a vision of something that many people suffer without depending on age and sex. For this reason, I congratulate the author for writing such a hard story, but one that can help. Lilah is suffering day after day that stormy relationship and sincerely, is the first book that I can' judge the protagonist because her actions are justified by situations. A third person can judge and not understand how she didn't run away, but only the person who suffers, in this case, Lilah can do it. Damian also had a turbulent past just like Lilah, but at least he didn't leave Lilah aside as they had done in the past with him. Unexpected was the moment of the teddy bear, but it was a pleasant surprise. After this book, I am looking forward to what Jax and Lexi will have in the next book.
I also have to emphasize the author's note "For everyone who’s with an Ash, but deserves a Damian. It's never too late" 🔝
⚜Rate: ★★★★★

[Lucid Quill · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible look at what it can be like for the victims of abuse and the paths they take towards healing.

So I was initially supposed to read and review book 4 of this series but I couldn't just skip to the end obviously. Let me tell you, don't skip this book! It was INCREDIBLE!! I may have officially fallen behind on my reading schedule but I do NOT care, sorry not sorry.

Damien, UGH my heart!! I adored him! 🖤😭 He was such an amazing character, completely selfless and ready to do anything to save the woman he cares about. Lilah was so strong and just did what she felt she had to do to protect herself.

Something I'm seeing in reviews is the speed that these two connected and fell. Here's the thing, these two didn't have a lot to go on in regards to a fully functioning relationship. Both of them experienced trauma and distanced themselves from further connections for fear of getting hurt or hurting others. It's completely plausible that they would recognize that in each other and cling to it. Not to mention other factors I won't spoil.

The other thing I saw addressed was people getting angry about Lilah's secret. Something that people need to understand is the power of manipulation that abusers perfect in order to control their victims. They are ruthless and they sever all reason so that their victims feel that they have nowhere to turn. It isn't going to make sense to someone who isn't experiencing it. Please go into this with an open mind and remember that these two are survivors of terrible abuse and trauma.

This is a truly fantastic read and I hope you give it a chance!

[Athena D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 STARS

Fragile Scars is a MUST read and will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ELITE!!!

Full review to come

[Azzie Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bring On The Tissues

Life is not a fairytale and this author gives us a look at a real life problem that most of the time gets over looked. This author did and amazing job to bring to light what most people suffer at the hands of their abuser. Come join Ash,Damian and Lilah as Lillian Harris takes us on a journey we will never forget. The characters in this book may not be real but we have people living this life every day. One of the most heartfelt stories for me in2021.Thanks to the author for writing up and then maybe we will speak up. PLEASE Put This On BOOKS To Read.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked the general idea of this book, I'm a sucker for a damsel in distress kind of vibe, however so much of this was so unbelievable that I didn't enjoy it in the slightest.
Damien discovered Lilah's abuse way too fast for how much of the book there was left, and then Lilah gave into him way too quickly.
As someone who has had a tiny experience with verbal abuse, it took me ages to be willing to talk to guys again let alone trust them in the way Lilah did just moments after her boyfriend had choked her and hit her around. She didn't even know Damien at the time, but trusting him instantly was so unrealistic.
The way they were acting so quickly was disappointing because it turned a book from one I could enjoy to a chore to finish reading.
Then Damien's and his 2 friends visiting Ash to threaten him was so pathetic, as ex military guys that work in security, you'd think they'd do a better job at attempting to scare the guy, they barely did a thing.
The way Damien acted around Lilah was so shit as well, the descriptions of how he looks at her and almost menacingly walks towards her, if he had all this experience with his mother being in an abusive relationship, there is no way he would have acted like that. Lilah also would have been terrified of how he was being, not turned on, the way he looked at her and walked towards her, would have made her think of her abusive boyfriend and petrified her, not the opposite.
The way Damien speaks to her is emotional abuse as well, not letting her deal with it how she wants to, walking away from her when she says stuff he doesn't like, slamming doors, ignoring her for days... why would he be written like this? He's meant to be her saviour, however in my eyes, he seems just as bad as her boyfriend and now makes sense why she fell for him so quickly, he's no different to Ash.
Just found myself rolling my eyes the whole time because of how unbelievable it all was, there was zero build and character development. I've read fan fiction with a more believable storyline than this

[Cate at Fiction Beer & Cupcakes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was granted an ARC from Give Me Books Promo and Lilian Harris for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book does have graphic domestic violence and verbal aggression. If this is a trigger for you, please don’t read this book.

This was my first read by Lilian Harris and sure as hell won’t be my last. Lilian filled my suspenseful loving heart with a book about two people whose background probably shouldn’t be together, but damn did they have off the chart sexual chemistry and their love, determination and stubbornness to get through the other side of things unscathed made me smile cry.

Damian Prescott doesn’t let himself get too close to any females for a relationship, for fear that he will turn into his father. That is until one night in bar, he see’s someone that keeps his attention and he doesn’t want to his eyes off of her.

Lilah may look like she has her life all together, but really, she is becoming an empty shell of a woman. Feeling as though she deserves to be suffering alone, rather than experiencing happiness. When Damian moves in across the hall from her she doesn’t hope for a hero, but a hero is what she may get from him.

This book. Oh, my goodness. I am always a little hesitant to try new authors, but damn Lilian Harris nailed it. I love suspenseful romance and she wrote a book that once I started, I couldn’t put down. The sexual chemistry was written beautifully and not over the top. I full on cried when I read the teddy bear scene. It was so sweet and was perfectly placed in the book that while there was domestic violence, there was a victim who took back her life and fought for what she wanted.

This is the first book in the Fragile Hearts series and I highly recommend that you read this book and series. I can’t wait to see what happens with Lexi and Jax in book two! I will be buying all the books in this series and can’t wait to see how it ends for everyone!

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fragile Scars is the story of Damian and Lilah. They are both permanently scarred by the impact of domestic violence - albeit in different ways. Fate brings them together when Lilah needs help the most.

When they meet, Damian is instantly attracted to Lilah, but she is in a relationship, so they try to ignore the chemistry between them. However, when Damian starts to figure out that Lilah is suffering at the hands of her current boyfriend, all bets are off. He not only appoints himself as her protector, he wants to be with her all the time. Unfortunately, if he can't talk her into walking away from her boyfriend and the situation she is in, will he be able to walk away instead?

Overall, this is a beautiful love story that blossoms in the midst of an ugly battle to free Lilah from her abusive boyfriend. It is gritty and rough to read in places because the abuse scenes are quite graphic but it helps the reader to know exactly what Lilah has been experiencing at the hands of a man who became a monster. Once Damian was free to love her, she thrived under his gentle attention and tenderness.

Ms. Harris did a nice job of handling a difficult topic. She also managed to put a twist in this story that I didn't see coming. I look forward to reading more in this series down the road.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. The thoughts and opinions contained in this review are entirely my own.

[Shedevilreads Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fragile Scars by Lilian Harris is a suspenseful contemporary romance. This is the first book in the Fragile Hearts series. All the books in the series are interconnected standalone romances with a different couple, but past couples and characters do make an appearance in later books.

This book does come with an Authors Note: “This story contains graphic violence and sexual assault, which may not be suitable for some readers.”

This is the first book of Lilian’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster and some scenes can be hard to read. I absolutely loved Damian and Lilah and had to know how their story was going to end. Lilian did an amazing job making me feel all the emotions of both characters. I cannot wait to dive into the next book in the series Fragile Lies to get Lexi and Jax’s story.

I would highly recommend this book if you love contemporary romances or suspenseful romances.

[Paula D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damian had a very rough childhood and in his eyes doesn’t want a serious relationship because he’s afraid of turning into a monster. Lilah is living in hell but keeps it hidden inside. But when the mystery man Damian becomes her neighbor and protector things start to change and maybe Lilah will have the strength to realize she deserves real love. A amazing romance story filled with heartache but so much strength. I was Lilah and I found my Damian so this book really touched my heart and made me realize how strong I truly am. 5/5 stars

[Booksmadeofvelvet · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book as amazing!
you must read it because it talks about a real story that women can face every day in her life. look around and you will know you know one person living with an abusive person but they can't stop that.
i oved how strong Damian was and how he didn't let go of Lilah even she was pushing him away.
and that bastard he deserved what happened to him.
definitely i recommend it

[R.A. Krauszer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love conquers all

I loved this book....it felt like looking back at my life. It wasn't my exact life....my Ash is across the u.s. from me. My Damian is the love of my life and is an awesome father to our 3 littles.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was just about to say that Lilian Harris is a new to me author, but after I checked her out, it shocked the hell out of me to realize she's new to everyone! I sure would have NEVER EVER guessed that little tidbit, because Fragile Scars rocked my world! It all starts out with a big event which happened in the hero. Damien's childhood, which shaped him into the man he is. And while he wants a wife & kids desperately someday, he isn't willing to turn into his abusive father for anything. Lilah, the heroine, is involved with a boyfriend who physically & mentally abuses her, and I just wanted to take him out, then give her a huge hug. At first, I seriously couldn't understand why she stayed since they didn't live together or married, when her inner monologue made it clear that she despised him, and wanted to be rid of him. Enter Damian, who came face to face with her on one of those very rare nights that he joined his partners/best friends at a pub for a drink or two. Instantly, he's attracted to her, not to mention notices she got sad eyes, however, Lilah literally gave him the finger. Imagine their surprise when he moved in across the hall from her, and now all of a sudden things just got serious. And I don't mean with her all of a sudden leaving the evil douche boyfriend, but in the way that Damian started getting past her walls as her friend. It didn't take long for him to realize she was getting abused, but once he did, he made sure she knew that he would always be there for her. Unfortunately, that evil douche she was seeing, did have leverage over her so she felt like she was forced to stay with him because she was positive he could ruin her life, so when crap hit the fan, it seriously hit. Not only was this amazing story highly emotional, it had some big twists that shocked me, like f-bomb dropping and/or all kinds of other colorful metaphors at the top of my lungs. And that's all I'll leave you with, because whatever you're thinking could have happened, trust me there's more. So, I hope you want to find out how it all pans out, if Lilah gets away from evil douche, and/or Damian ends up being her lobster. If so, you'll have to one click Fragile Scars to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Angie Flanagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh My Wow! I love loved this book so much!!! I loved everything about it. 
The characters, the storyline, the writing, just everything. It was so great!
This is Lilians first book, and boy did she set the standards high for herself, and her for her readers.
What a story this was!! An emotional rollercoaster, ups and downs, and just everything else between.
Lilah and Damian meet while out at a bar with their different friends, and HE ends up living across the hall from her!
SURPRISE!!!
Lilah is in a relationship, and in one that she shouldn’t be in. She can’t get out of it cause it’ll expose her WHOLE secret to the world. Damian is single and has been for some time now as he doesn’t want to become his father.
Little does he know that Lilah is in the same boat his mother was.
Can he build a friendship with her to get closer to her, and help her?
Can he save her?
Can Lilah take the chance with her secret getting out there if she can get away from her boyfriend?

I really enjoyed the mystery part of it, not really a mystery, but the suspense of it, and just hoping that they could find a way to make things work, cause of her boyfriend, and how he is.

Their chemistry was so strong, you could feel it coming out of my kindle! I LOVED IT!!

I also loved that there was unspoken conversations happening. So one character would say something, and the other character would answer in their head. I know that may not sound right, but it was just so great with this book!

Some of my fave quotes from the book:

1. “You’re just so nice to me, and I gave you the finger, twice.” - Lilah cracks me up!
2. “Oh please, can you go fuck him already? I know you two like each other, so just do it.” - I love Lilah’s friend! She’s so funny!
3. “Bye! See you soon. Try to keep your legs closed on the ride over.” - Lexi at it again! LOL!
4. “It may be sooner than you think.” - OMG! I about died when I read this. YES!!!!!!!!!!!

And then chapter 34 broke my heart so much, and made me cry in public, on the bus on the way to work!!! Thanks Lilian!

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damian Prescott doesn't do love, relationships, or anything of the sort... his past experiences have lead him to believe he isn't cut out for them. Coming from an abusive home, watching his mother endure all she did, left him a little feeling like he couldn't put himself in that situation ever, for fear that he would carry his father's traits. So for the most part he keeps his distance from women... that is until he moves in across the hall from Lilah!

The moment they meet he can tell she is an abused woman, he knows the look of fear she carries all to well, and his need to protect her immediately comes to the surface. But getting involved would require him to get close, and that scares him more than a little, getting attached to her just can't happen. But his need to protect her soon starts to override his need to remain unattached, and before long they find themselves in a tricky situation... one that could have a tragic ending.

Fragile Scars is an emotional page-turner that will do a number on your heart and have you feeling the hurt behind every word. This one spoke to me on many levels, understanding the situation all too well, I was able to find a connection to the characters instantly. The words on the page pulled me in and effected me deeply, and it's characters had my heart instantly. I loved this pairing, both sharing similar pain, unaware how to truly handle it, and both scared where it would leave them. Their pain bonded them quickly, but just below the surface there was this undeniable attraction that neither were ready to admit or act on because of the situation, so there was a bit of angst there to stir up the anticipation. This one had tough moments for me, but I am so happy that I gave it a chance despite that fact, the parts of my heart that it broke, were mended with it's beautiful outcome! Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Rachel Reads Romance · Rating 2 out of 5]

h: Lilah
H: Damian
(Dual POVs)

Lilah is in an abusive relationship and feels forced to stay with her abuser due to blackmail. Damian spots Lilah and Lexi across the bar and sends them drinks when he sees that Lilah is sad. The next day, Lilah is leaving her apartment when she runs into Damian, who is interested in renting the apartment across the hall.

I’m going to chalk this up to a case of “It’s not you, it’s me”. Unfortunately, I feel like this book just didn’t work for me. It was very, very, very insta-love. I’m talking head over heels, can’t live without them, they’re ‘the one’, completely consumed in love in the matter of a few days. I didn’t enjoy the fact that Lilah had no fight in her when she was being abused. There were some aspects that I didn’t think fit in regards to Lilah being a victim of abuse. The twists and turns throughout the book kept it interesting, and I am glad I finished it. I loved the HEA ending!

Favorite quotes:
”You’re just so nice to me,” she grips my shirt, her forehead against my chest, “and I gave you the finger, twice.”

She’s an ember flame just waiting to engulf me. I don’t know when it happened or how, but the inferno is nearing, closing in around me until I beg to burn. -Damian

I’d be less painful if she just punched me in the dick. -Damian

[lowkeyreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my very first book by Lilian Harris and definitely will not be my last. This book was simple and absolutely amazing! I can't believe this is a debut novel! I felt so many different emotions while reading the story. I really love it when an author can pull you into the story and you can feel what the characters are going through. I couldn’t put it down, it was so great book.

Lilah and Damien are both broken, their pain alike, yet different at the same time. Damien wants to help Lilah, to make her see she’s worth so much more, but Lilah feels trapped because of circumstances she’s afraid to tell anyone about. Becoming friends, he vows to protect her. However their friendship is risky and has the power to make things worse.

Lilah & Damien were perfect together. They both went through so much in their lives, that they truly deserved to finally find happiness with each other. This book was full of serious topics but I think they were handled & written beautifully. I loved the epilogue & how we got to see years into the future, that’s always one of my favourite parts of a book. I really liked all of the secondary characters & I can't wait to read Jax & Lexi’s book.

ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Echo's Journey Through Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Fragile Scars truly put me through an emotional turmoil; it pretty much broke my heart from the very first sentence, and kept at it throughout almost the whole book. This is such a heart shattering story but also absolutely beautiful. Damian and Lilah have both suffered so much, too much, but the way their paths cross and the way they fall for each other is a stunning journey.

Damian is such a sweet character and I adore his instant protectiveness towards Lilah, who is absolutely precious. He knows what it's like being trapped around abuse so he understands her more than anyone else, and how it's not easy to leave no matter how painful it might be. I adore the way he shows her shelter and the way he doesn't push her but just is there for her when she needs it.

The passion between Damian and Lilah is everything and I love that they end up being each others safe haven. It's just so beautiful! And the incredible writing truly did justice to all of it. I adored the way this ended as well and ah wow loved this book so much!

"We're just two fucked up hearts who desperately want salvation. I'm not sure if I'm the one to give it to her, but I'd gladly go to hell to save her."

[Emma bramley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in this series by this author and the first book I've read by this author, what an amazing read. This is the emotional story of the characters Damian and Lilah, these two characters have intense and instant chemistry between them from the start. This story is filled with angst and will take you on an emotional roller coaster of a ride. You will definitely need the tissues at the ready with this book. The story of the characters is a hard one but the author has wrote it so beautifully that you get sucked into the story from the start.

I was given an copy of this book and this is my honest review
www.obsessedbookreviews.com

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a hell of a beginning, which obviously kept me reading.

Damian has sworn off women, in an attempt to never be like his father. He’s accepted that he will never love a woman and that’s just how his life will be, it’s safer that way. Everything changes when he meets Lilah. Lilah has her own sordid history to work through (with the help of Damian of course!) before she can be with Damian.

Obviously, I love Damian! He is just so perfect and everything a girl like Lilah could hope for. If we are being honest, which we are, I wanted to throw my phone because of Lilah. I wanted to know her secret so bad! This book is fast paced, and doesn’t leave you guessing forever, which I was truly thankful for.

Also, the sex scenes are spot on! 🔥 They are so well written and perfect for Lilah and Damian! This was my first read from this author and I was not disappointed! I cannot wait to read Fragile Lies!

[MizFig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fragile!

What an amazing journey!! This book was definitely a journey. You are sucked into this amazing world and follow these characters through so much!! You know Fate had a hand in all of this and the way the author tells their stories is beautiful and precious. I loved every aspect of this book. The author took a subject that is so dark and so horrific and told it in a way that gives you hope and gives you faith. I can’t say enough good things about this book. I won’t spoil it for you, but you definitely need to read this one!!
A new author to me but I will be reading more of her work!!