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Our Secrets and Scars
Dear Fletcher,
I never meant to fall in love with you. You were only ever supposed to be my pen pal, the faceless man in a prison cell who got me to spill my secrets.
But for four long years, your letters were my lifeline. They brought me comfort in a world of cruelty. They brought me peace when all I felt was pain.
Until suddenly, they stopped.
But I never stopped thinking about you. I never stopped wishing that one day we could meet in real life. What is it they say? "Be careful what you wish for".
Do you remember when you said that our secrets and scars are what make us?
I guess they're what break us too.
I never meant to fall in love with you. You were only ever supposed to be my pen pal, the faceless man in a prison cell who got me to spill my secrets.
But for four long years, your letters were my lifeline. They brought me comfort in a world of cruelty. They brought me peace when all I felt was pain.
Until suddenly, they stopped.
But I never stopped thinking about you. I never stopped wishing that one day we could meet in real life. What is it they say? "Be careful what you wish for".
Do you remember when you said that our secrets and scars are what make us?
I guess they're what break us too.
299 pages, Paperback
Published September 14, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
November 1, 2023
1.5/5
I saw this book on my fyp on goodreads and when I read that there was a pen-pal trope in it, I thought why not read it. Well, it turned out to be a bad decision. The wattpad vibes here made me shudder.
The plot was predictable, the writing style was poor, and the main characters irritating. What a great combination. Not to mention the sentences I read here.
Please no. I want to erase it from my memory.
WATERMELON-COLORED????
My first and last book from this author. To think it was released on my birthday and I read it then. I want to cry.
I saw this book on my fyp on goodreads and when I read that there was a pen-pal trope in it, I thought why not read it. Well, it turned out to be a bad decision. The wattpad vibes here made me shudder.
The plot was predictable, the writing style was poor, and the main characters irritating. What a great combination. Not to mention the sentences I read here.
"Little one?” I clarify.
He smirks. “Because you’re so little, I could fit you in my pocket.”
Please no. I want to erase it from my memory.
"Holden’s watermelon-colored lips smile down at me as he strokes a hand through my hair."
WATERMELON-COLORED????
My first and last book from this author. To think it was released on my birthday and I read it then. I want to cry.
September 21, 2022
4.5⭐️
i finished this book in a few hours it was so so good! these 2 are the definition of soulmates! i've not seen many people talk about this book but this book is definitely worth the read, it was quite emotional but i loved the romance and the entire storyline, one of my favourite reads of this month!!
i finished this book in a few hours it was so so good! these 2 are the definition of soulmates! i've not seen many people talk about this book but this book is definitely worth the read, it was quite emotional but i loved the romance and the entire storyline, one of my favourite reads of this month!!
March 16, 2026
Okay, I really did enjoy this one. It’s got so many tropes that are up my alley.
Penpal ✅
Virgin hero ✅
Praise ✅
It’s honestly a really beautiful and Swoony story, and I definitely recommend. This is a newer author to me and I am intrigued to see what else comes from her.
This is a penpal romance where the heroine has been through a traumatic event and just needs someone who is misunderstood as well to talk to. Hence her writing to a young man who is in juvenile detention. They get to know eachother on such a deep level, which is one of my favorite things about penpal romances. Then when they finally meet my heart was here for it all.
This is a angsty, story that will get you in the feels.
I couldn’t put it down and wanted to see what would happen next. I finished it in a night. There’s a twist I didn’t actually see coming, that added an extra layer of angst to these two. At some moments it did feel a bit insta love, when they officially meet, but they do have that sort of love that is undeniable, no matter the circumstances.
Penpal ✅
Virgin hero ✅
Praise ✅
It’s honestly a really beautiful and Swoony story, and I definitely recommend. This is a newer author to me and I am intrigued to see what else comes from her.
This is a penpal romance where the heroine has been through a traumatic event and just needs someone who is misunderstood as well to talk to. Hence her writing to a young man who is in juvenile detention. They get to know eachother on such a deep level, which is one of my favorite things about penpal romances. Then when they finally meet my heart was here for it all.
This is a angsty, story that will get you in the feels.
I couldn’t put it down and wanted to see what would happen next. I finished it in a night. There’s a twist I didn’t actually see coming, that added an extra layer of angst to these two. At some moments it did feel a bit insta love, when they officially meet, but they do have that sort of love that is undeniable, no matter the circumstances.
September 19, 2022
I was absolutely obsessed with this book! I Ioved it so much. I never really read the pen pals trope—it just isn’t something I come across a lot—but after reading this, I want to read more books that have it! This is also my first book by this author, so I’ll definitely be checking out more.
I adored Kinsley and Holden. They were 100% soulmates!! Their letters were so honest and vulnerable and they built such a such a deep connection through them over the years. It just had me🥺 and I loved the way ‘fate’ just brought them together again and again. So sweet! Also, the little twist at the end and how it all came together…ahhh I just loved this book!!
It was such a beautiful, emotional and raw story. You should definitely add it to your tbr!🫶🏼
I adored Kinsley and Holden. They were 100% soulmates!! Their letters were so honest and vulnerable and they built such a such a deep connection through them over the years. It just had me🥺 and I loved the way ‘fate’ just brought them together again and again. So sweet! Also, the little twist at the end and how it all came together…ahhh I just loved this book!!
It was such a beautiful, emotional and raw story. You should definitely add it to your tbr!🫶🏼
October 24, 2025
I HATED and I truly mean HATED the nickname "little one." Felt myself cringe each time I came across it
February 4, 2023
this. was. so. beautiful.
im not going to lie, i hit the 2% mark and was like, "this is going to be a 5 star read for me" but when i hit the 75% mark, i was like noooooo😭😭😭😭 fuck this book. but the ending made up for it. honestly, this was such a wild ride. i should have seen the plot twist coming but i was so invested in what was happening that i jus didn't care to think ahead. it's been a rlly long time since ive been that into a book. AFTER SUCH A LONG TIME, i finally found a pen pal, new adult romance that i devoured and loved with every inch of my soul. this book broke my heart and put it back together. the emotions ran high, the tension was high. i loved the angst and the journey of their love. i loved seeing the characters grow and get what they deserved. by the end of the book, i was 100% convinced that they are soulmates through and through.
this book is being slept on and needs to be read by more people asap!!!!!!
i loved the depth that this book had. the smut did not have me rolling my eyes and it has the emotional development and intimacy that i was craving from a book. it checked all my boxes and delivered on all fronts. this will forever be etched in my memory.
"Scars are stories scribed on the skin to remind you of what you’ve survived. How strong you are, how much you’ve been through, you know? They’re cracks in your perfection that let the light come in. And I’m not just talking about physical scars, but the ones that are etched into your soul too. My scars that aren’t visible are just as painful as the ones that are. And you know what? I hate a lot of things about myself, Kinsley, but my scars aren’t one of them."
"No one’s perfect, and we’re all a little bit ugly on the inside."
“Yeah, because no one’s without blemishes, are they?” he says. “There’s a Rumi quote that goes ‘the wound is the place where the light gets in.’ I don’t know. I just don’t think there’s anything wrong with flaws, y’know? We need them, because without them we wouldn’t be able to feel the light.”
"A woman with a broken heart is a dangerous thing."
im not going to lie, i hit the 2% mark and was like, "this is going to be a 5 star read for me" but when i hit the 75% mark, i was like noooooo😭😭😭😭 fuck this book. but the ending made up for it. honestly, this was such a wild ride. i should have seen the plot twist coming but i was so invested in what was happening that i jus didn't care to think ahead. it's been a rlly long time since ive been that into a book. AFTER SUCH A LONG TIME, i finally found a pen pal, new adult romance that i devoured and loved with every inch of my soul. this book broke my heart and put it back together. the emotions ran high, the tension was high. i loved the angst and the journey of their love. i loved seeing the characters grow and get what they deserved. by the end of the book, i was 100% convinced that they are soulmates through and through.
this book is being slept on and needs to be read by more people asap!!!!!!
i loved the depth that this book had. the smut did not have me rolling my eyes and it has the emotional development and intimacy that i was craving from a book. it checked all my boxes and delivered on all fronts. this will forever be etched in my memory.
"Scars are stories scribed on the skin to remind you of what you’ve survived. How strong you are, how much you’ve been through, you know? They’re cracks in your perfection that let the light come in. And I’m not just talking about physical scars, but the ones that are etched into your soul too. My scars that aren’t visible are just as painful as the ones that are. And you know what? I hate a lot of things about myself, Kinsley, but my scars aren’t one of them."
"No one’s perfect, and we’re all a little bit ugly on the inside."
“Yeah, because no one’s without blemishes, are they?” he says. “There’s a Rumi quote that goes ‘the wound is the place where the light gets in.’ I don’t know. I just don’t think there’s anything wrong with flaws, y’know? We need them, because without them we wouldn’t be able to feel the light.”
"A woman with a broken heart is a dangerous thing."
Did Not Finish
October 27, 2022dnf oct 2022 @ 20%
after reading so many good books in a row, this marks my second dnf in a row for october… i was so intrigued at first by the pen pal letters but then when we got to present day and Kinsley met “Fletcher” who we obviously know is him but he’s being all “mysterious” it was so CRINGEY. I couldn’t do it. Their whole interaction at the tattoo parlour is what made me just stop not be able to continue. I loved this authors first book so.. im sad
after reading so many good books in a row, this marks my second dnf in a row for october… i was so intrigued at first by the pen pal letters but then when we got to present day and Kinsley met “Fletcher” who we obviously know is him but he’s being all “mysterious” it was so CRINGEY. I couldn’t do it. Their whole interaction at the tattoo parlour is what made me just stop not be able to continue. I loved this authors first book so.. im sad
January 3, 2023
Loved this pen pal style love story. It had some unique twists and turns and def left me feeling fulfilled when reading the story. This was a good read
April 24, 2023
Heartbreaking
This book broke my heart numerous times. I had figured out what Holden's secret was but it didn't make it any easier. Love his heart!!
This book broke my heart numerous times. I had figured out what Holden's secret was but it didn't make it any easier. Love his heart!!
January 27, 2023
I am a sucker for the pen pals trope and this book didn't disappoint.
I'll start off from the beginning though and say I do wish that we got to see more of the letters between the two characters, simply because there were only a few and they were so random, It made it hard to see a connection between the characters and their feelings for each other didn't seem real or even make sense for a while until they actually met.
But once they met it was obvious who Holden was straight away and I loved him instantly. Kinsley was okay but I did find her slightly irritating at times, especially in her letters, obviously I could empathize with her and what she must have gone through but she was soo superficial and very much "me me me".
But I did really enjoy the spice, I enjoyed seeing the characters fall for each other again without realising also we love a virgin hero here 👀👀. The writing was good, the pacing was good and I really enjoyed reading this.
I'll start off from the beginning though and say I do wish that we got to see more of the letters between the two characters, simply because there were only a few and they were so random, It made it hard to see a connection between the characters and their feelings for each other didn't seem real or even make sense for a while until they actually met.
But once they met it was obvious who Holden was straight away and I loved him instantly. Kinsley was okay but I did find her slightly irritating at times, especially in her letters, obviously I could empathize with her and what she must have gone through but she was soo superficial and very much "me me me".
But I did really enjoy the spice, I enjoyed seeing the characters fall for each other again without realising also we love a virgin hero here 👀👀. The writing was good, the pacing was good and I really enjoyed reading this.
October 30, 2022
⭐3.5
I have such a soft spot for this book. The main characters were flawed but oh so lovable and even though most of the plot was predictable I was still rooting for the moment they get together and overcome their problems. Holden (H) was perfect for Kenzi (h) he understood her and accepted all he flaws and loved her unconditionally. My heart broke for what he had to go through while he was in prison and the fact that he was a gentle soul after he was free despite what he went through made him one of a kind. My heart also broke for Kenzie and her insecurities after a car accident that left her scared. That hit deep which was why I loved Holden for her, he was everything she needed in a partner and I guess we all want someone to love us unconditionally despite our scars, physical or otherwise. I actually teared up at one point.
I did have some issues with pacing as I thought the story dragged at times and I got a little bored. I also don't feel like we got very memorable side characters apart from Holden's uncle who was very sweet. There is a twist that some may be able to see coming but I didn't so I was genuinely surprised when it happened.
Overall though the MC's made me emotional, they made me laugh and they almost made me cry and wish I had something as special as what they had.
I have such a soft spot for this book. The main characters were flawed but oh so lovable and even though most of the plot was predictable I was still rooting for the moment they get together and overcome their problems. Holden (H) was perfect for Kenzi (h) he understood her and accepted all he flaws and loved her unconditionally. My heart broke for what he had to go through while he was in prison and the fact that he was a gentle soul after he was free despite what he went through made him one of a kind. My heart also broke for Kenzie and her insecurities after a car accident that left her scared. That hit deep which was why I loved Holden for her, he was everything she needed in a partner and I guess we all want someone to love us unconditionally despite our scars, physical or otherwise. I actually teared up at one point.
I did have some issues with pacing as I thought the story dragged at times and I got a little bored. I also don't feel like we got very memorable side characters apart from Holden's uncle who was very sweet. There is a twist that some may be able to see coming but I didn't so I was genuinely surprised when it happened.
Overall though the MC's made me emotional, they made me laugh and they almost made me cry and wish I had something as special as what they had.
November 28, 2022
I adored this book, so much so I devoured it in a day!
I had an inkling I’d really enjoy this book because of the pen pal trope, which I do really really love, but I was also simply hooked in from the first couple of pages. These two characters had me captivated from their first appearances on the pages — something that only seemed to grow me as I read on.
And the smut… omg the smut🔥
Kinsley and Holden (adore these names btw!) have made themselves a very special home in my heart, and I know for definite this will be a book I reread over and over in the coming future… Need to buy myself a physical copy and proudly display this on my bookshelf in all its glory!!
💜
I had an inkling I’d really enjoy this book because of the pen pal trope, which I do really really love, but I was also simply hooked in from the first couple of pages. These two characters had me captivated from their first appearances on the pages — something that only seemed to grow me as I read on.
And the smut… omg the smut🔥
Kinsley and Holden (adore these names btw!) have made themselves a very special home in my heart, and I know for definite this will be a book I reread over and over in the coming future… Need to buy myself a physical copy and proudly display this on my bookshelf in all its glory!!
💜
October 2, 2022
2 stars.
Very predictable story line and I lost interest after why he was sent to prison was revealed. But 2 stars for the hero because he was hot.
Very predictable story line and I lost interest after why he was sent to prison was revealed. But 2 stars for the hero because he was hot.
October 9, 2022
3.5 Stars
I absolutely adored The Truth About Love by Myer and was instantly ready to read Our Secrets and Scars. While I did not like it as much as her first novel, it was still an enjoyable read and one I’m glad I took on.
Quick Synopsis: Kinsley is recovering from a car accident that ended with the death of her twin sister Bexley. As part of her therapy, she has begun a pen pal relationship with an inmate at the juvenile detention center. Fletcher is someone she can communicate with and rely on, someone she can share her deepest secrets with. When Fletcher is about to be released from jail however, he stops writing to her. Reeling from the betrayal, Kinsley starts anew at college in Salt Lake City as Violet. Here, she meets Holden, a sexy 21 year old who is working part time while also studying for his fine arts degree. Kinsley can’t let go of Fletcher however, but there are a lot of secrets yet to be revealed to her.
Trigger warnings: car accident, parental neglect, death of a sibling, emotional neglect, wrongful incarceration, police corruption/abuse of power, political corruption, attempted rape, date rape drugs, sexual harassment, sexual assault, molestation of a minor,
What I liked:
-I love a pen pal, secret identity, insta-love, kept apart angsty novel, I do. I love all of these tropes and I got them.
-I loved the characters Holden and Kinsley, I did, but I loved Mack more.
-I think the addition of tensions with Kinsley’s parents added the depth that we needed to understand Kinsley’s struggles.
-Dealing with death and especially death of a twin I can’t even imagine, but I think this was handled with care, but I would have liked to have learned more about why Bexley was such a bitch to her sister.
-Call me whatever you want, but I didn’t see the twist coming. I didn’t see it coming. So it was a great twist for me. I was shook. Still am.
-The spice was great and there was a great amount of it.
What I struggled with:
-I think “little one” is a term of endearment that I personally love but that’s more appropriate for older love interests. Don’t ask me why, I just think that. It felt out of place for a character who was so young (21 years old).
-There was a scene with paint where they had seggs in paint. To me, that seems like 1. A mess and 2. Kind of dangerous for our heroine’s private parts. I can see that being really bad if it gets into certain areas. That kind of ruined that scene for me.
-Some of the dialogue was incredibly cheesy and also out of place. For example, after a secret is revealed, Isla is comforting our main character Kinsley and says “you’re still a queen” when that wasn’t even the issue to begin with. It just seemed weird.
-I wish there had been less beginning and more ending. I wanted more info with the parents, I wanted more arguments with Holden, I wanted more angst and development and I feel like I got a lot of them being content when I wanted angst.
-I’m going to be honest, I thought Holden knew who she was the whole time they were at school so when it was revealed he didn’t know I was shocked and also didn’t quite believe it.
-I really wish Holden and Kinsley had taken steps to get Owen expelled after actions he took towards Kinsley. That would’ve been something the campus should have been involved in.
Altogether, this was an enjoyable read. I wouldn’t say it was nearly as good as The Truth About Love, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
I absolutely adored The Truth About Love by Myer and was instantly ready to read Our Secrets and Scars. While I did not like it as much as her first novel, it was still an enjoyable read and one I’m glad I took on.
Quick Synopsis: Kinsley is recovering from a car accident that ended with the death of her twin sister Bexley. As part of her therapy, she has begun a pen pal relationship with an inmate at the juvenile detention center. Fletcher is someone she can communicate with and rely on, someone she can share her deepest secrets with. When Fletcher is about to be released from jail however, he stops writing to her. Reeling from the betrayal, Kinsley starts anew at college in Salt Lake City as Violet. Here, she meets Holden, a sexy 21 year old who is working part time while also studying for his fine arts degree. Kinsley can’t let go of Fletcher however, but there are a lot of secrets yet to be revealed to her.
Trigger warnings: car accident, parental neglect, death of a sibling, emotional neglect, wrongful incarceration, police corruption/abuse of power, political corruption, attempted rape, date rape drugs, sexual harassment, sexual assault, molestation of a minor,
What I liked:
-I love a pen pal, secret identity, insta-love, kept apart angsty novel, I do. I love all of these tropes and I got them.
-I loved the characters Holden and Kinsley, I did, but I loved Mack more.
-I think the addition of tensions with Kinsley’s parents added the depth that we needed to understand Kinsley’s struggles.
-Dealing with death and especially death of a twin I can’t even imagine, but I think this was handled with care, but I would have liked to have learned more about why Bexley was such a bitch to her sister.
-Call me whatever you want, but I didn’t see the twist coming. I didn’t see it coming. So it was a great twist for me. I was shook. Still am.
-The spice was great and there was a great amount of it.
What I struggled with:
-I think “little one” is a term of endearment that I personally love but that’s more appropriate for older love interests. Don’t ask me why, I just think that. It felt out of place for a character who was so young (21 years old).
-There was a scene with paint where they had seggs in paint. To me, that seems like 1. A mess and 2. Kind of dangerous for our heroine’s private parts. I can see that being really bad if it gets into certain areas. That kind of ruined that scene for me.
-Some of the dialogue was incredibly cheesy and also out of place. For example, after a secret is revealed, Isla is comforting our main character Kinsley and says “you’re still a queen” when that wasn’t even the issue to begin with. It just seemed weird.
-I wish there had been less beginning and more ending. I wanted more info with the parents, I wanted more arguments with Holden, I wanted more angst and development and I feel like I got a lot of them being content when I wanted angst.
-I’m going to be honest, I thought Holden knew who she was the whole time they were at school so when it was revealed he didn’t know I was shocked and also didn’t quite believe it.
-I really wish Holden and Kinsley had taken steps to get Owen expelled after actions he took towards Kinsley. That would’ve been something the campus should have been involved in.
Altogether, this was an enjoyable read. I wouldn’t say it was nearly as good as The Truth About Love, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
September 15, 2022
5/5⭐️
2/3🔥
-anonymous prison pen pals
-soulmates/fate vibes
-she’s insecure about her scars
-lots of secrets
THIS BOOK! It had me hooked from the very start, the plot was so unique and I loved all the letters (I adore when books have different elements in them)! As expected from Maisie this book has a lot of emotions and her writing definitely submerges you right into the feels with the characters.
Kinsley, has some scarring due to a previous accident that resulted in her being ostracized by her high school friends. As a way to express her feelings, she decided to write to a juvenile inmate since she assumes they know how she feels about being judged before people get a chance to know them. They exchange letters back and forth for 4 years. Fletcher (her pen pal) helps Kinsley get through some of her darkest times and accepts her scars and all. She relies on these letters and looks forward to hearing from Fletcher. Suddenly one day Fletcher just stops answering and Kinsley is devastated about this. She lost her closest friend and her support system all at once.
Flash forward and Kinsley is now starting her freshman year of college and is beginning to feel more comfortable in her skin. She meets a smoking hot, tattooed/pierced guy named Holden. They have an instant connection but they both have reasons for wanting things to stay platonic between them which leads to quite a bit of tension.
Both Kinsley and Holden felt super relatable at times and this is why I LOVE Maisie’s writing because everything is deep. When you read this book you get to be inside the character's head and are experiencing real and raw emotions. I have so many quotes from this book highlighted on my Kindle, I'm obsessed! This was my first prison pen pal book and I’m now obsessed with this trope!
If you like angsty, emotional, and spicy romance books, this one is for you!!
2/3🔥
-anonymous prison pen pals
-soulmates/fate vibes
-she’s insecure about her scars
-lots of secrets
THIS BOOK! It had me hooked from the very start, the plot was so unique and I loved all the letters (I adore when books have different elements in them)! As expected from Maisie this book has a lot of emotions and her writing definitely submerges you right into the feels with the characters.
Kinsley, has some scarring due to a previous accident that resulted in her being ostracized by her high school friends. As a way to express her feelings, she decided to write to a juvenile inmate since she assumes they know how she feels about being judged before people get a chance to know them. They exchange letters back and forth for 4 years. Fletcher (her pen pal) helps Kinsley get through some of her darkest times and accepts her scars and all. She relies on these letters and looks forward to hearing from Fletcher. Suddenly one day Fletcher just stops answering and Kinsley is devastated about this. She lost her closest friend and her support system all at once.
Flash forward and Kinsley is now starting her freshman year of college and is beginning to feel more comfortable in her skin. She meets a smoking hot, tattooed/pierced guy named Holden. They have an instant connection but they both have reasons for wanting things to stay platonic between them which leads to quite a bit of tension.
Both Kinsley and Holden felt super relatable at times and this is why I LOVE Maisie’s writing because everything is deep. When you read this book you get to be inside the character's head and are experiencing real and raw emotions. I have so many quotes from this book highlighted on my Kindle, I'm obsessed! This was my first prison pen pal book and I’m now obsessed with this trope!
If you like angsty, emotional, and spicy romance books, this one is for you!!
September 18, 2022
I absolutely love books with pen pals or any kind of letters and when I discovered Our Secrets and Scars by Maisie Myers, I just had to read it.
The book is about Kinsley who experienced a tragic accident and her therapist recommends her to talk to someone. The relationship to her family is a bit strained and therefore she decides to partake in this program to write with prisoners. I absolutely loved this concept and it was the perfect start to the story.
The hero of the book added such a unique perspective and I absolutely loved how honest and vulnerable they were in their letters and how they formed a connection through it. When the hero gets out of prison the letter’s suddenly stop and it’s up to fate for them to meet again.
I honestly don’t want to tell you more about this story because it will hit different when you don’t know that much more. But I totally recommend to check out this book.
4,5 stars.
The book is about Kinsley who experienced a tragic accident and her therapist recommends her to talk to someone. The relationship to her family is a bit strained and therefore she decides to partake in this program to write with prisoners. I absolutely loved this concept and it was the perfect start to the story.
The hero of the book added such a unique perspective and I absolutely loved how honest and vulnerable they were in their letters and how they formed a connection through it. When the hero gets out of prison the letter’s suddenly stop and it’s up to fate for them to meet again.
I honestly don’t want to tell you more about this story because it will hit different when you don’t know that much more. But I totally recommend to check out this book.
4,5 stars.
August 8, 2024
Emotional and deep
New to me author I just happened to come across and I'm so glad I did. This story was such a sad, deep emotional read and it had me in my feelings for sure. Poor Holden really went through it and so did Kinsley. I really loved the pen pal aspect of this. The secrets between the two were hanging heavy between them but the love they had for eachother held them together. Great read.
New to me author I just happened to come across and I'm so glad I did. This story was such a sad, deep emotional read and it had me in my feelings for sure. Poor Holden really went through it and so did Kinsley. I really loved the pen pal aspect of this. The secrets between the two were hanging heavy between them but the love they had for eachother held them together. Great read.
May 12, 2023
To be honest, I let the mixed reviews on this book hold me back from reading it for longer than I’d like to admit. I’m really glad I gave it an honest go because I loved it. An easy 4.5 stars ⭐️ I loved the pen pal storyline - the AIM generation girl in me can’t ever get enough of this trope. I didn’t find the book too predictable like some have said in a few reviews. Maybe that makes me gullible or unsuspecting, I don’t know but I was pleasantly surprised by the ending and all of the twist and turns. I was enthralled by this book from the first page. Loved it loved it.
January 3, 2023
Premier coup de cœur de l’année et quel coup de cœur ! J’ai adoré ce livre avec toute mon âme et je sais pas si je vais arriver à m’en remettre. J’espère avoir la chance de vivre un jour ce que vive Holden et Kinz, ça serait merveilleux
April 15, 2026
The way that I ate this book up you guys! It was so good and I was sucked in immediately and basically never came up for air. I love a good emotional and angsty romance and Maisie writes some of the best, in my opinion. This was no different.
What you'll get:
- Prison pen pal
- V!rgin Hero
- Protective Hero
- Angsty
- Spicy
I absolutely loved this book and think that everyone should go pick it up and read it! Free on KU. Worth the book trophy.
What you'll get:
- Prison pen pal
- V!rgin Hero
- Protective Hero
- Angsty
- Spicy
I absolutely loved this book and think that everyone should go pick it up and read it! Free on KU. Worth the book trophy.
October 10, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
January 20, 2023
only giving it 3 stars cuz i’m feeling generous
nothing originally
nothing special
just another boring romance book with a predictable plot
nothing originally
nothing special
just another boring romance book with a predictable plot
August 17, 2023
**4.5 stars**
So so so good. This is def one of my new favorites😍
So so so good. This is def one of my new favorites😍
January 10, 2025
What an ending! I really enjoyed the writing and the characters. It was very emotional and heartwarming.
February 17, 2025
3.5 stars
September 22, 2022
Wow! Just wow!
I’ve been struggling to find a book that I REALLY enjoy reading. Lately, all books I read are just another one but this one… this one is special!
The pen pal/prison inmate troupe is one of my favourites, although I can only name one or two which really left an impression, this book will definitely be the first it will come to my mind!
I loved the fact they fell in love with their souls first. Without a physical description or photo of each other, they fell in love. It was beautiful!
And the fact that, when then finally meet, they don’t realise who the other is….. Oh.My.Good!!!
Actually, at first I really though that Holden knew who she was, that he got the letter with her new address and as soon as he got out from prison, he went to look for her. When I realised that he was as much in the dark as she was… like…. I don’t even have works. Their poor hearts.
The story is beautiful. It fells real and it hurts. At lot.
One of the best books I read this year, if not the best. 5 ⭐️
Now I’m going to check all the other books from the author, since it was my first read from her. Xxx
I’ve been struggling to find a book that I REALLY enjoy reading. Lately, all books I read are just another one but this one… this one is special!
The pen pal/prison inmate troupe is one of my favourites, although I can only name one or two which really left an impression, this book will definitely be the first it will come to my mind!
I loved the fact they fell in love with their souls first. Without a physical description or photo of each other, they fell in love. It was beautiful!
And the fact that, when then finally meet, they don’t realise who the other is….. Oh.My.Good!!!
Actually, at first I really though that Holden knew who she was, that he got the letter with her new address and as soon as he got out from prison, he went to look for her. When I realised that he was as much in the dark as she was… like…. I don’t even have works. Their poor hearts.
The story is beautiful. It fells real and it hurts. At lot.
One of the best books I read this year, if not the best. 5 ⭐️
Now I’m going to check all the other books from the author, since it was my first read from her. Xxx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Dear Romance Authors,
Please write stronger female characters.
Maisie Myers’ Scars and Secrets sets out to be a deeply emotional tale of healing and connection, built around the compelling premise of a prison pen pal romance. While the story offers moments of tenderness and raw vulnerability, particularly through its male lead, it ultimately falters in its execution—largely due to uneven character development and emotional imbalance.
💔 Holden: A Portrait of Patience and Loyalty Holden (aka Fletcher) is arguably the emotional anchor of the novel. Myers crafts him with care: a young man shaped by trauma, yet brimming with empathy, loyalty, and quiet strength. His unwavering support for Violet (aka Kinz) is touching, especially in the face of her deep-seated insecurities, about being undesirable and unlovable. His patience is nothing short of saintly, and his willingness to protect her—even pretending to be her boyfriend to shield her from harm—cements his role as a romantic ideal.
However, the narrative occasionally undermines Holden’s depth with jarring moments of dominance, particularly in intimate scenes, which feel incongruent with his otherwise gentle demeanour. This “I’m in charge” dynamic may appeal to certain tropes, but it risks trivialising the complexity of trauma-informed intimacy (trigger warning: sexual abuse).
😔 Kinsley: A Frustratingly Self-Centered Journey The female protagonist, Kinsley (later Violet), is written with layers of pain and vulnerability, but her arc is marred by emotional immaturity and a lack of reciprocity. Despite knowing Holden’s traumatic past, she often prioritizes her own hurt feelings, reacting impulsively and assuming the worst of him. Her tendency to play the victim—cutting him off without seeking clarity—feels not only unfair but emotionally exhausting.
Readers looking for a strong, emotionally grounded female lead may find Kinsley’s behaviour disappointing. Her inability to extend the same grace and understanding that Holden offers her repeatedly reinforces a dynamic that feels one-sided and, at times, emotionally manipulative.
📝 Final Thoughts Scars and Secrets had the potential to be a poignant exploration of love born from shared scars. Holden’s character shines as a testament to resilience and compassion. Yet the imbalance in emotional maturity between the leads detracts from the story’s impact. For readers weary of female protagonists who default to victimhood, this novel may feel more frustrating than cathartic.
Please write stronger female characters.
Maisie Myers’ Scars and Secrets sets out to be a deeply emotional tale of healing and connection, built around the compelling premise of a prison pen pal romance. While the story offers moments of tenderness and raw vulnerability, particularly through its male lead, it ultimately falters in its execution—largely due to uneven character development and emotional imbalance.
💔 Holden: A Portrait of Patience and Loyalty Holden (aka Fletcher) is arguably the emotional anchor of the novel. Myers crafts him with care: a young man shaped by trauma, yet brimming with empathy, loyalty, and quiet strength. His unwavering support for Violet (aka Kinz) is touching, especially in the face of her deep-seated insecurities, about being undesirable and unlovable. His patience is nothing short of saintly, and his willingness to protect her—even pretending to be her boyfriend to shield her from harm—cements his role as a romantic ideal.
However, the narrative occasionally undermines Holden’s depth with jarring moments of dominance, particularly in intimate scenes, which feel incongruent with his otherwise gentle demeanour. This “I’m in charge” dynamic may appeal to certain tropes, but it risks trivialising the complexity of trauma-informed intimacy (trigger warning: sexual abuse).
😔 Kinsley: A Frustratingly Self-Centered Journey The female protagonist, Kinsley (later Violet), is written with layers of pain and vulnerability, but her arc is marred by emotional immaturity and a lack of reciprocity. Despite knowing Holden’s traumatic past, she often prioritizes her own hurt feelings, reacting impulsively and assuming the worst of him. Her tendency to play the victim—cutting him off without seeking clarity—feels not only unfair but emotionally exhausting.
Readers looking for a strong, emotionally grounded female lead may find Kinsley’s behaviour disappointing. Her inability to extend the same grace and understanding that Holden offers her repeatedly reinforces a dynamic that feels one-sided and, at times, emotionally manipulative.
📝 Final Thoughts Scars and Secrets had the potential to be a poignant exploration of love born from shared scars. Holden’s character shines as a testament to resilience and compassion. Yet the imbalance in emotional maturity between the leads detracts from the story’s impact. For readers weary of female protagonists who default to victimhood, this novel may feel more frustrating than cathartic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2024
Kinz and Fletcher developed a pen pal relationship for four years while he was in jail, falling in love with each other through their written words 💌
There was some miscommunication within the book that irritated me, but they eventually admitted that both of them hadn't received the last few letters 📮
The most adorable moment was when Holden created a tattoo design inspired by Kinz's words, which he tattooed over his heart 🫶 Although the design was displayed in the tattoo shop, he reserved it for himself, cherishing its personal significance 😫
Holden was the biggest sweetheart you could ever wish for! Washing Kelseys hair in the shower 🫠 Kelsey, however, did annoy me at times, and I found her shallow. I know she also suffered past trauma, but always thinking her looks were the only important thing in life just gave me the ick. 🙈
I'm so glad I found this book as it was truly a beautiful read, and having the MMC Virgin Trope was the icing on the cake! 🥵
There was some miscommunication within the book that irritated me, but they eventually admitted that both of them hadn't received the last few letters 📮
The most adorable moment was when Holden created a tattoo design inspired by Kinz's words, which he tattooed over his heart 🫶 Although the design was displayed in the tattoo shop, he reserved it for himself, cherishing its personal significance 😫
Holden was the biggest sweetheart you could ever wish for! Washing Kelseys hair in the shower 🫠 Kelsey, however, did annoy me at times, and I found her shallow. I know she also suffered past trauma, but always thinking her looks were the only important thing in life just gave me the ick. 🙈
I'm so glad I found this book as it was truly a beautiful read, and having the MMC Virgin Trope was the icing on the cake! 🥵
September 29, 2022
Maisie Myers has a special way of gabbing your soul and taking you on a mad ride. "Our Secrets and Scars" did exactly that.
I've known that this book will be intriguing since the moment I hear it will be a prison pen-pals romance. I am a huge lover of letter in books and this one had plenty of them. And every single one of them was so beautiful and poetic.
Regarding characters, I loved Kinsley and Holden. They were perfect soulmates and their story is tragic and beautiful at the same time. Kinsley is such a wonderful soul and her strength is out of this world. And Holden won me over without a second chance to resist.
This book is truly wonderful. You should definitely give it a try!
I've known that this book will be intriguing since the moment I hear it will be a prison pen-pals romance. I am a huge lover of letter in books and this one had plenty of them. And every single one of them was so beautiful and poetic.
Regarding characters, I loved Kinsley and Holden. They were perfect soulmates and their story is tragic and beautiful at the same time. Kinsley is such a wonderful soul and her strength is out of this world. And Holden won me over without a second chance to resist.
This book is truly wonderful. You should definitely give it a try!
Did Not Finish
December 1, 2023DNF
I was only 11% in when i decided to go check reviews again since I had added this to my list ages ago and was just sitting in my kindle since it was labeled as a virgin hero read.
Unfortunately, the reviews did not help solidify my choice but actually made me return it immediately (dramatic oops). Anyways, I saw in multiple reviews that they didn’t know who each other were but admitted they were both hung up on other people (aka themselves *sigh*) and still started a physical relationship - which honestly is worse than him not being a virgin but having no previous relationships, like you’re in love with someone (that you’ve never even met nonetheless) but still gonna hook up with this woman you have a physical connection with? Feel free to correct me if I read the reviews wrong, but if that’s the truth then it’s just not a book for me - doesn’t mean that others won’t enjoy it of course, just personal taste!
I didn’t even both looking up the spoilers for what the big twist was since I wasn’t gonna finish it, I was just that disinterested…
I was only 11% in when i decided to go check reviews again since I had added this to my list ages ago and was just sitting in my kindle since it was labeled as a virgin hero read.
Unfortunately, the reviews did not help solidify my choice but actually made me return it immediately (dramatic oops). Anyways, I saw in multiple reviews that they didn’t know who each other were but admitted they were both hung up on other people (aka themselves *sigh*) and still started a physical relationship - which honestly is worse than him not being a virgin but having no previous relationships, like you’re in love with someone (that you’ve never even met nonetheless) but still gonna hook up with this woman you have a physical connection with? Feel free to correct me if I read the reviews wrong, but if that’s the truth then it’s just not a book for me - doesn’t mean that others won’t enjoy it of course, just personal taste!
I didn’t even both looking up the spoilers for what the big twist was since I wasn’t gonna finish it, I was just that disinterested…
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