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Beneath the Scars
The sound of the ocean, the crash of the waves as they kick up against the sand and rocks—these are the only sounds Megan Greene wants to hear. She wants to leave the rest of the world behind, and find some peace. The offer of a private house on the beach, set in a small town in Maine, is perfect. Time to think—to be by herself. It’s all she wants. It’s the escape she needs.
Until she stumbles across the painting that seems to echo her own chaotic mindset. Until she meets the unfriendly artist behind the stormy painting and discovers his secrets.
All Zachary Adams wants is to be left alone. His canvases, and the unending scope of the ocean and sand, are his life. They direct him—fill his hours. Bring him focus.
Until she enters his life. She dredges up memories of the past—the haunting images he has hidden for years; the fears he has never shared. A story he keeps buried below the surface.
Can she make him see what he is missing? Can he trust her enough to believe?
Together they embark on a journey where their pasts collide and threaten to tear them apart. Will their fragile bond hold or wash away with the ebbing tide?
Until she stumbles across the painting that seems to echo her own chaotic mindset. Until she meets the unfriendly artist behind the stormy painting and discovers his secrets.
All Zachary Adams wants is to be left alone. His canvases, and the unending scope of the ocean and sand, are his life. They direct him—fill his hours. Bring him focus.
Until she enters his life. She dredges up memories of the past—the haunting images he has hidden for years; the fears he has never shared. A story he keeps buried below the surface.
Can she make him see what he is missing? Can he trust her enough to believe?
Together they embark on a journey where their pasts collide and threaten to tear them apart. Will their fragile bond hold or wash away with the ebbing tide?
262 pages, Paperback
First published October 8, 2014
529 people are currently reading
2197 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Moreland
72 books5,410 followersWelcome Romance Readers!
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A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story.
Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at [email protected]
Join my newsletter for news on upcoming releases and sales CLICK HERE
Make sure to follow me on Amazon for new release alerts CLICK HERE
Join me on Facebook in my reader group CLICK HERE
Check out my excerpts on Verve Romance CLICK HERE
A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story.
Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at [email protected]
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 354 reviews
September 14, 2014
2.5 stars!
This book is a classic example of where all the ingredients for a good, solid story are there but unfortunately the execution was a letdown. I liked the premise of this modern beauty and the beast story: second chance romance between an eccentric and reclusive artist and a betrayed writer. However, the plot was terribly underdeveloped, the writing too descriptive, and the overall story too bland and clichéd. I suppose if you are looking for a sweet and straightforward romance this book is a good choice.
***************************
Megan Greene is a writer betrayed by her ex-boyfriend, who stole her manuscript and claimed her work for his own. With no legal proof to back her claims and her career in shambles, Megan retreats to a small town in Maine to regroup and take a breather from reality.
A moody artist with a gruesome and heartbreaking past, Zachary Adams is practically the hermit of the town. He avoids people and only expresses himself artistically through his evocative paintings. It is one of his paintings that draws Megan’s attention and she is hell bent on buying it from him.
The first few times Zachary and Megan bump into each other, harsh words are exchanged but there’s no doubt that they are attracted to each other. Not one to give up lightly, Megan pursues Zachary relentlessly for the painting and a series of coincidences also bring them together, eventually leading Zach to reveal what he doesn’t want people to know: he is physically scarred from fire burns. But unlike others, Megan sees past his scars and doesn’t think less of him.
There is some resistance on Zachary’s part, but pretty soon he gives in to his attraction to Megan and they start up a relationship. During this time, Zachary still doesn’t 100% trust her because he’s been burned by love in the past. Megan on the other hand tries her best to get Zachary to open up and accept intimacy.
***************************
Up until the last quarter of the book, I was enjoying this book (probably 3.5-4 stars then). After the 75% mark, everything went down the drain. I have to mention the ridiculous insta-love on Megan’s part in the beginning – this is a woman who’s been hurt socially and personally by her ex and her goal for staying in this small town in Maine is to distance herself, yet the moment she meets Zachary she pursues him relentlessly and feel an inexplicable connection to him. But because I adored Zachary’s character, I was able to overlook that.
I think this book could’ve at least scraped a 3 star rating if it weren’t for my #1 pet peeve taking the stage here: LACK OF COMMUNICATION. *takes a deep breath* You know when both main characters say they love each other and when some complete stranger shows them false evidence hinting at betrayal, they just believe the stranger instead of asking for an explanation. And then said person runs off. Completely leaves the other person hanging and dealing with the aftermath. Completely leaves a person behind. But of course to get to that perfect ending, there is absolutely no groveling and loose ends are tied up so nicely rainbows start shining and world peace is achiev-
UGH.
In a nutshell, this overly sweet, clichéd, and unbelievable whirlwind romance was not my cup of coffee. Good simple premise, bad execution. I am an oddball after all so be sure to check out other reviews before completely writing this book off.
ARC provided by Patchwork Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a classic example of where all the ingredients for a good, solid story are there but unfortunately the execution was a letdown. I liked the premise of this modern beauty and the beast story: second chance romance between an eccentric and reclusive artist and a betrayed writer. However, the plot was terribly underdeveloped, the writing too descriptive, and the overall story too bland and clichéd. I suppose if you are looking for a sweet and straightforward romance this book is a good choice.
***************************
Megan Greene is a writer betrayed by her ex-boyfriend, who stole her manuscript and claimed her work for his own. With no legal proof to back her claims and her career in shambles, Megan retreats to a small town in Maine to regroup and take a breather from reality.
A moody artist with a gruesome and heartbreaking past, Zachary Adams is practically the hermit of the town. He avoids people and only expresses himself artistically through his evocative paintings. It is one of his paintings that draws Megan’s attention and she is hell bent on buying it from him.
The first few times Zachary and Megan bump into each other, harsh words are exchanged but there’s no doubt that they are attracted to each other. Not one to give up lightly, Megan pursues Zachary relentlessly for the painting and a series of coincidences also bring them together, eventually leading Zach to reveal what he doesn’t want people to know: he is physically scarred from fire burns. But unlike others, Megan sees past his scars and doesn’t think less of him.
There is some resistance on Zachary’s part, but pretty soon he gives in to his attraction to Megan and they start up a relationship. During this time, Zachary still doesn’t 100% trust her because he’s been burned by love in the past. Megan on the other hand tries her best to get Zachary to open up and accept intimacy.
***************************
Up until the last quarter of the book, I was enjoying this book (probably 3.5-4 stars then). After the 75% mark, everything went down the drain. I have to mention the ridiculous insta-love on Megan’s part in the beginning – this is a woman who’s been hurt socially and personally by her ex and her goal for staying in this small town in Maine is to distance herself, yet the moment she meets Zachary she pursues him relentlessly and feel an inexplicable connection to him. But because I adored Zachary’s character, I was able to overlook that.
I think this book could’ve at least scraped a 3 star rating if it weren’t for my #1 pet peeve taking the stage here: LACK OF COMMUNICATION. *takes a deep breath* You know when both main characters say they love each other and when some complete stranger shows them false evidence hinting at betrayal, they just believe the stranger instead of asking for an explanation. And then said person runs off. Completely leaves the other person hanging and dealing with the aftermath. Completely leaves a person behind. But of course to get to that perfect ending, there is absolutely no groveling and loose ends are tied up so nicely rainbows start shining and world peace is achiev-
UGH.
In a nutshell, this overly sweet, clichéd, and unbelievable whirlwind romance was not my cup of coffee. Good simple premise, bad execution. I am an oddball after all so be sure to check out other reviews before completely writing this book off.
ARC provided by Patchwork Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 2, 2023
Beneath the Scars is a stand alone romance by Melanie Moreland. I’ve owned this book for a long time but for no particular reason, it just kept getting pushed further back with all the new books constantly wanting my attention. I finally decided that I was going to read it. I love Melanie’s work and knew this would be a story that would steal my heart and it did!
Megan Greene is twenty five years old. She is an author who has been trying to break in to the world with limited success so far. But circumstances in Megan’s life have turned everything upside down and she needs some time alone to reset. Her best friend offers her their seaside cottage in the tiny town of Cliff’s Edge in Maine. It’s just what Megan needs. Then while in town visiting a small art gallery, her life is once again turned upside down when a painting grips her. It was like everything she was feeling was on that canvas. Megan has also noticed the man who lives in a neighboring home up on a cliff. But the man has no interest in her attempts to be friendly. When Megan realizes that this man is the artist, she is determined to get to know the man who somehow ripped her very own emotions out of her and painted them.
Zachary Adams is thirty seven years old. He has lived in his beachside home for twelve years alone, just the way he wants it. He rarely goes to town and when he does, he avoids people as much as possible. Then the annoying woman down the beach starts disrupting his peace and quiet. He has no interest in speaking to her and makes his opinions known in the rudest way possible. But she won’t be deterred. Then a nasty storm makes it impossible for him to ignore her when she needs his help. It’s then that he realizes that this woman is not only beautiful on the outside but on the inside as well.
Both Zachary and Megan have reasons they are hiding from the world and the closer they become, those secrets are shared. But are you ever really able to let go of the past? Will it always cloud your judgment while trying to move forward? And what happens when those secrets come back and try to take away any chances you had at happiness.
This was such a beautiful and emotional story of adversity, of love, of strength, and of hope. These two came together when they needed each other. But they had so much in their lives to battle against. Melanie always paints such beautiful pictures with her words. I could feel the salty sea as I read this. And of course, the ending was wonderful. I’m sorry I waited so long to read this but it was well worth the wait.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Megan Greene is twenty five years old. She is an author who has been trying to break in to the world with limited success so far. But circumstances in Megan’s life have turned everything upside down and she needs some time alone to reset. Her best friend offers her their seaside cottage in the tiny town of Cliff’s Edge in Maine. It’s just what Megan needs. Then while in town visiting a small art gallery, her life is once again turned upside down when a painting grips her. It was like everything she was feeling was on that canvas. Megan has also noticed the man who lives in a neighboring home up on a cliff. But the man has no interest in her attempts to be friendly. When Megan realizes that this man is the artist, she is determined to get to know the man who somehow ripped her very own emotions out of her and painted them.
Zachary Adams is thirty seven years old. He has lived in his beachside home for twelve years alone, just the way he wants it. He rarely goes to town and when he does, he avoids people as much as possible. Then the annoying woman down the beach starts disrupting his peace and quiet. He has no interest in speaking to her and makes his opinions known in the rudest way possible. But she won’t be deterred. Then a nasty storm makes it impossible for him to ignore her when she needs his help. It’s then that he realizes that this woman is not only beautiful on the outside but on the inside as well.
Both Zachary and Megan have reasons they are hiding from the world and the closer they become, those secrets are shared. But are you ever really able to let go of the past? Will it always cloud your judgment while trying to move forward? And what happens when those secrets come back and try to take away any chances you had at happiness.
This was such a beautiful and emotional story of adversity, of love, of strength, and of hope. These two came together when they needed each other. But they had so much in their lives to battle against. Melanie always paints such beautiful pictures with her words. I could feel the salty sea as I read this. And of course, the ending was wonderful. I’m sorry I waited so long to read this but it was well worth the wait.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
December 31, 2017
Oh boy!!! The amount of tears shed by the 2 protagonists was EXHAUSTING!!! They were fresh, overflowing, pouring and abundant amounts of tears in this book, yet my eyes stayed dry!! Lol.
October 14, 2014
LIVE http://www.amazon.com/Beneath-Scars-M...
The story begins with Megan running away to Cliff’s Edge. She is a writer and her book has been stolen from her. She is devastated and her friend offers her, her beach house. While at the beach house she sees a mystery man: Zachary.
Zachary isn’t running, no he ran away a long time ago, now he is in hiding. A painter living life as away from everyone else. In the small town he only talks to a few people out of necessity, but mainly keeps to himself. When his new neighbor comes to him sick with worry over losing her dog, he basically tells her off and slams the door in her face. Afterwards, he feels like an ass and decides to go help her.
This changes things for both Megan and Zachary and they begin a relationship of sorts. Zachary is scarred from a fire and is very self-conscious of how he looks, but Megan sees pasts his scars and wants to help him.
I was so excited to read this one when I signed up to review it on NetGalley, I thought it had a great premise. A girl running from her past and a troubled man living a life as a recluse. Plus I thought it had a great cover.
With all books I don’t love, I have to question if it is me or the book - I hate the idea of negatively effecting someone’s opinion on a book without knowing for sure.
So here is my humble opinion:
This story moved extremely slow in the beginning. I had a really hard time getting into the story, and almost DNF’d it a few times, but my OCD wouldn’t allow that.
I didn’t love Megan. She is running from her past and problems, and immediately jumps into “love” with someone else. That part just didn’t seem believable to me. I mean if your problems are so bad you feel the need to runaway are you going to immediately jump into a relationship with a damaged guy? Even having Megan’s POV I still had trouble knowing her motives, I didn’t think she was using Zachary, but I did wonder why she was jumping into something with this type of man when she had some real issues herself.
I also didn’t love the lack of communication that led to wasted time. I know this is a common occurrence in books now, but it makes me want to scream. To me it is unbelievable, because in real life most people would have to talk things out. Second, it is a copout to fill pages. If we are going to have a “communication” problem I don’t want it to go on for multiple pages/chapters.
Lastly and one I can’t stand…
Now Zachary. Yes, I loved Zachary - it’s no secret I love a damaged man, who happens to be a bit of an asshole. I thought Zachary was great. I felt like his feelings and reactions fit based on his past. I liked how knew how he acted in youth was wrong, and that he wanted to be a better man-period. I liked how he wanted to be better for Megan.
I did like the message, that beauty is not only skin deep.
In the end, I think this story may work for a lot of people, it just didn’t work for me. I could have overlooked a few things, but it felt like I was getting hammered with things.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story begins with Megan running away to Cliff’s Edge. She is a writer and her book has been stolen from her. She is devastated and her friend offers her, her beach house. While at the beach house she sees a mystery man: Zachary.
Zachary isn’t running, no he ran away a long time ago, now he is in hiding. A painter living life as away from everyone else. In the small town he only talks to a few people out of necessity, but mainly keeps to himself. When his new neighbor comes to him sick with worry over losing her dog, he basically tells her off and slams the door in her face. Afterwards, he feels like an ass and decides to go help her.
This changes things for both Megan and Zachary and they begin a relationship of sorts. Zachary is scarred from a fire and is very self-conscious of how he looks, but Megan sees pasts his scars and wants to help him.
I was so excited to read this one when I signed up to review it on NetGalley, I thought it had a great premise. A girl running from her past and a troubled man living a life as a recluse. Plus I thought it had a great cover.
With all books I don’t love, I have to question if it is me or the book - I hate the idea of negatively effecting someone’s opinion on a book without knowing for sure.
So here is my humble opinion:
This story moved extremely slow in the beginning. I had a really hard time getting into the story, and almost DNF’d it a few times, but my OCD wouldn’t allow that.
I didn’t love Megan. She is running from her past and problems, and immediately jumps into “love” with someone else. That part just didn’t seem believable to me. I mean if your problems are so bad you feel the need to runaway are you going to immediately jump into a relationship with a damaged guy? Even having Megan’s POV I still had trouble knowing her motives, I didn’t think she was using Zachary, but I did wonder why she was jumping into something with this type of man when she had some real issues herself.
I also didn’t love the lack of communication that led to wasted time. I know this is a common occurrence in books now, but it makes me want to scream. To me it is unbelievable, because in real life most people would have to talk things out. Second, it is a copout to fill pages. If we are going to have a “communication” problem I don’t want it to go on for multiple pages/chapters.
Lastly and one I can’t stand…
Now Zachary. Yes, I loved Zachary - it’s no secret I love a damaged man, who happens to be a bit of an asshole. I thought Zachary was great. I felt like his feelings and reactions fit based on his past. I liked how knew how he acted in youth was wrong, and that he wanted to be a better man-period. I liked how he wanted to be better for Megan.
I did like the message, that beauty is not only skin deep.
In the end, I think this story may work for a lot of people, it just didn’t work for me. I could have overlooked a few things, but it felt like I was getting hammered with things.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2014
I was bored a lot while reading this book, and then it picked up a bit around 30% and I was 3 starring along until 67% and everything started getting ridiculous. Firstly the insta-love was a huge problem for me, and I am not a fan of and it was all just so predictable and uneventful. I guess it all comes down to personal preference, this was just not my type of read, from the very beginning I never felt the connection Megan had with Zachary. I was never convinced. I'm gonna sleep on it.
I think if you're looking to read something that's wildly romantic and sweet then this is your book.
******************************************
Okay so I feel bad because I didn't even highlight anything while reading this book. To be quite honest I felt so drained after finishing it, when I got to 70% I started skimming until 80%. It was just eye roll moment after eye roll moment but I'll get to that later.
Megan Green, our heroine recently went through a emotionally taxing event. She's a writer you see, and her ex stole her work and wants to publish it under his own name. It's an ongoing struggle where he tries to make her look like the guilty party in front of the press. She flees to a small town, and plans to stay in a beach house owned by her friend, Karen. While walking her very cute dog Dixie on the beach she sees her neighbour, Zachary Adams with his own very adorable dog, Elliot. Lets just say her first impression of him is not that great.
Their second meeting is at an art gallery where Zachary sells some of his work. Megan, sees a water colour of his, Tempest. She's so compelled by the painting that she immediately wants to purchase it, but her hopes are dashed when she learns that it's not for sale. She's persistent though and she convinces the gallery owner to speak to Zachary.
Here's where the insta-love begins people, I get okay. The painting is beautiful and it's like she can see his soul in it and because of that she can relate to Zachary. This all leads to her professing her love after only one week, or two I think I can't remember.
Besides all of this I just couldn't stand, Megan! She was constantly sniffling or glowing with joy like some kind of Disney Princess. So desperately wanting to Zachary to open up to her, after one week!!!
I can't say I could find any fault with Zachary's character, he was one of the reasons I didn't DNF this book. Oh but he did mess up too.
Let's fast forward to a night that Megan shares a bottle of wine with her friend and does something stupid.
LMFAO!!! I cannot even! Oh and it doesn't end there but I honestly don't have the time.
After some false accusations, where they both become stupid and jump to conclusions.
And they live happily ever after.
ARC kindly provided by author in return for an honest review
March 3, 2019
Another winner by miss Moreland. This book like many of her other works, have all of the romance, the angst and the drama. Zachary os my favorite brooding character. I love brooding loner man. My only dislike is meghan. She is very very annoying. All she done is crying. I swear if her tear is transformed into a words, then this book will all wet.
I always prefer a fiesty, strong and independnent woman character. But in this book, miss Moreland fails to give me a strong heroine.
I also do wish more groveling from zachary side. But nevertheless, i am satisfied.
4 stars
I always prefer a fiesty, strong and independnent woman character. But in this book, miss Moreland fails to give me a strong heroine.
I also do wish more groveling from zachary side. But nevertheless, i am satisfied.
4 stars
December 18, 2018
3.5 stars
Brilliantly written – emotional and raw.
Fabulous!
But… the hero was my less favorite by this author.
I got that he was hurt in the past, but it didn’t justify his drama-queen attitude.
Damn, dude annoyed me. I would never ever be the heroine of this book.
Apparently I’m not a good person enough, and I'm definitely not into saving losta$$es, ups, sorry, souls.
Likable heroine, sweet, patient. Quite the opposite of me *lol*
Nevertheless touching love story with depth and humanity.
Brilliantly written – emotional and raw.
Fabulous!
But… the hero was my less favorite by this author.
I got that he was hurt in the past, but it didn’t justify his drama-queen attitude.
Damn, dude annoyed me. I would never ever be the heroine of this book.
Apparently I’m not a good person enough, and I'm definitely not into saving lost
Likable heroine, sweet, patient. Quite the opposite of me *lol*
Nevertheless touching love story with depth and humanity.
October 20, 2014
***3.5 Stars***
(BR with Mel)
(Arc kindly provided by Netgalley)
When I started reading this book I thought the plot had a lot of potential but as it developed the insta-love factor in the story was what ultimately prevented me from really connecting with the characters and their romance.
Megan is running away from her life, she got involved with her boss, a famous writer , and trusted him enough to share her own book with him but instead of finding support in him he stole the manuscript from her and now claims that he wrote it. With her life upside down, she desides to pack her life and her beloved dog and go to the secluded beach house her best friend offered, in search of some peace. She heard of the misterious neighbor who doesn't talk to anybody, but when they meet on the beach and both their dogs connect, Megan is immediately taken by him and wants to know everything about this recluse man who has so much pain in his eyes. Zachary is also hiding from a painful past life that marked him, now he spends his days painting beautiful masterpieces and drowning in self loathing, until he meets the sweet read head who will bring him back to life. Little by little Megan wins Zachary over and is not long before a powerful passion takes over these two broken souls, but can they really open up to love and trust one another, even though they both have been burned by people in their pasts?
I enjoyed the writing style and the plot was very promising but I had a really hard time connecting with Megan's character, she was very wishy washy and cried over everything. Another thing I didn't like about the story was the execution of the intimate scenes, they would start really passionate but then skip over the details and not describing anything further after the initial foreplay. I enjoyed the ending and I will definitely be interested in reading more from this author.
October 21, 2014
3.5 "You're Home" Stars!
(ARC provided by Netgalley)
(BR with Dee)
Megan Greene is a writer living in Boston. After being hurt & betrayed by someone she trusted and thought cared for her, she feels worthless & needs to get away & think. Her best friend offers her the use of her beach house in a small town in Maine called Cliff's Edge. She heads to the beach house hoping to find some peace & find the inspiration to write again.
Megan heads into town to pick up supplies & spots a painting in one of the shops that calls to her. This painting captured all the emotions she was feeling & she felt connected to it somehow. She finds out the artist is a British man named Zachary Adams that lives in a house on the bluff at the end of the beach near where she's staying.
Megan meets her new neighbor & quickly learns he isn't all that friendly, and wants to be left alone. Zachary is a quiet, private, closed off, damaged man with trust issues. He has a complicated, troubled past, and pushes people away before they have a chance to reject him first. He is in his own private pain, & feels he has nothing to offer another person & has trouble letting anyone close enough to love him. Megan feels drawn to him instantly, and is persistent in getting to know him. Seeing himself through Megan's eyes, Zachary quits hiding from the world around him,& learns to let go of the past & move on.
-I didn't believe him when he said he wanted to be alone- I was certain it was the only way he knew how to be.
-I felt more for him in the short time I'd known him than I ever felt for another man.
-Never had I felt so attuned to another person's emotions; it was as if my soul felt the shift of his mood and transformed it to match. He could make me feel lust, anger, or happiness so fast; I barely knew it was happening.
-"I'm here."
-"Right here with you. Be with me."
-"Lose yourself with me, Zachary."
-"I didn't think there was anyone as sweet as you left in this world." "You weren't looking in the right place." "I wasn't looking at all," he replied. "Yet, somehow you found me."
-"When you look at me like that, I feel... like I can do anything."
-"You make me want...things."
-She made me smile. She made me feel. She gave me something I hadn't felt in years: hope.
-"How do you say so much with those eyes of yours? How do you affect me so fucking deeply?"
-I want to know you; all of you."
(ARC provided by Netgalley)
(BR with Dee)
Megan Greene is a writer living in Boston. After being hurt & betrayed by someone she trusted and thought cared for her, she feels worthless & needs to get away & think. Her best friend offers her the use of her beach house in a small town in Maine called Cliff's Edge. She heads to the beach house hoping to find some peace & find the inspiration to write again.
Megan heads into town to pick up supplies & spots a painting in one of the shops that calls to her. This painting captured all the emotions she was feeling & she felt connected to it somehow. She finds out the artist is a British man named Zachary Adams that lives in a house on the bluff at the end of the beach near where she's staying.
Megan meets her new neighbor & quickly learns he isn't all that friendly, and wants to be left alone. Zachary is a quiet, private, closed off, damaged man with trust issues. He has a complicated, troubled past, and pushes people away before they have a chance to reject him first. He is in his own private pain, & feels he has nothing to offer another person & has trouble letting anyone close enough to love him. Megan feels drawn to him instantly, and is persistent in getting to know him. Seeing himself through Megan's eyes, Zachary quits hiding from the world around him,& learns to let go of the past & move on.
-I didn't believe him when he said he wanted to be alone- I was certain it was the only way he knew how to be.
-I felt more for him in the short time I'd known him than I ever felt for another man.
-Never had I felt so attuned to another person's emotions; it was as if my soul felt the shift of his mood and transformed it to match. He could make me feel lust, anger, or happiness so fast; I barely knew it was happening.
-"I'm here."
-"Right here with you. Be with me."
-"Lose yourself with me, Zachary."
-"I didn't think there was anyone as sweet as you left in this world." "You weren't looking in the right place." "I wasn't looking at all," he replied. "Yet, somehow you found me."
-"When you look at me like that, I feel... like I can do anything."
-"You make me want...things."
-She made me smile. She made me feel. She gave me something I hadn't felt in years: hope.
-"How do you say so much with those eyes of yours? How do you affect me so fucking deeply?"
-I want to know you; all of you."
May 22, 2020
4 stars.🌟🌟🌟🌟
Angsty, raw and emotional.
So quintessentially Ms. Moreland .
I really do enjoy reading her books.
I felt a strong emotional connection to both these characters.... experiencing their joy as well as their deep pain.
I especially loved the rural remoteness of this story's setting...it definitely set the mood...for this poignant and bittersweet story.... the brokenness of the hero....and the sweetness of this heroine made for a wonderful read...also I loved the puppies..Elliott and Dixie...such cuties.
Angsty, raw and emotional.
So quintessentially Ms. Moreland .
I really do enjoy reading her books.
I felt a strong emotional connection to both these characters.... experiencing their joy as well as their deep pain.
I especially loved the rural remoteness of this story's setting...it definitely set the mood...for this poignant and bittersweet story.... the brokenness of the hero....and the sweetness of this heroine made for a wonderful read...also I loved the puppies..Elliott and Dixie...such cuties.
March 15, 2015
5 STUNNING STARS
OMGGGG MY EMOTIONS ARE EVERYWHERE BECAUSE OF THIS BOOK! One chapter I am smiling with a stupid shit-eating grin, and then next I am sobbing. And let me tell you, I loved EVERY SECOND of the emotional roller coaster this book put me through!
So you know the drill with my reviews at this point: short and sweet && a brief discussion of the characters, whom by the way, I LOVED!!
Megan
...LOVED HER! I was immediately drawn to how real she was. We meet her arriving in Cliff's Edge, a small town on the water. She eludes to the fact that she was running away from her problems at home and as the story takes off, we learn why. She then meets the elusive Zachary, who for lack of a better term, was a complete and utter asshole to her. But she knows there is more than meets the eye to this handsome stranger and the love affair that starts between the two is absolutely beautiful. My only issue with Megan is that I felt she was a little too loose-lipped on the "L" word, but to each their own!
Zachary
...LOVED HIM TOO! In Cliff's Edge, Zachary is known as the reclusive artist that doesn't give anyone the time of day. When he first see's Megan, he ignores her completely. OF course my first response to this was- wtf? If there is a love that starts between them, I am going to be pissed because he's a dick. (Yes, my words exactly...what can I say? I'm a genius when it comes to words) But as he shows himself more and more to Megan, we learn exactly why he is the way he is. The scars that mar his face and body aren't just on the surface, they are skin deep as well. Never before have I felt such compassion for a character. This man, before he met Megan, was literally suffering in his loneliness. The fact that it took Megan's love for him to finally be able to peel off his "mask of indifference" towards to world, made their love that much more amazing and enjoyable to read about.
Seriously, I loved this book. It had my emotions all over the place! And as of now, I truly believe that my fiancé now thinks I might be bi-polar due to my many emotional breakdowns he just so happened to have witnessed while I was reading the book. Oh well. So worth it!
OMGGGG MY EMOTIONS ARE EVERYWHERE BECAUSE OF THIS BOOK! One chapter I am smiling with a stupid shit-eating grin, and then next I am sobbing. And let me tell you, I loved EVERY SECOND of the emotional roller coaster this book put me through!
So you know the drill with my reviews at this point: short and sweet && a brief discussion of the characters, whom by the way, I LOVED!!
Megan
...LOVED HER! I was immediately drawn to how real she was. We meet her arriving in Cliff's Edge, a small town on the water. She eludes to the fact that she was running away from her problems at home and as the story takes off, we learn why. She then meets the elusive Zachary, who for lack of a better term, was a complete and utter asshole to her. But she knows there is more than meets the eye to this handsome stranger and the love affair that starts between the two is absolutely beautiful. My only issue with Megan is that I felt she was a little too loose-lipped on the "L" word, but to each their own!
Zachary
...LOVED HIM TOO! In Cliff's Edge, Zachary is known as the reclusive artist that doesn't give anyone the time of day. When he first see's Megan, he ignores her completely. OF course my first response to this was- wtf? If there is a love that starts between them, I am going to be pissed because he's a dick. (Yes, my words exactly...what can I say? I'm a genius when it comes to words) But as he shows himself more and more to Megan, we learn exactly why he is the way he is. The scars that mar his face and body aren't just on the surface, they are skin deep as well. Never before have I felt such compassion for a character. This man, before he met Megan, was literally suffering in his loneliness. The fact that it took Megan's love for him to finally be able to peel off his "mask of indifference" towards to world, made their love that much more amazing and enjoyable to read about.
Seriously, I loved this book. It had my emotions all over the place! And as of now, I truly believe that my fiancé now thinks I might be bi-polar due to my many emotional breakdowns he just so happened to have witnessed while I was reading the book. Oh well. So worth it!
July 10, 2016
https://romanticcynicblog.wordpress.c...
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Megan): 25yrs old – 5/5
Hero (Zachary): 37yrs old – 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Grovel: epic!
Cheating: none
HEA: a perfect ending with babies!
Triggers: none
Average score: 5/5
Best Line: “What frightens me even more is how much I need you. I have never needed another person in my life. You’re like the air I breathe. I can’t be without you now, Megan.”
Worst Line: “Ugliness outside often indicates there’s ugliness underneath.”
Personal Review:
This was an epic romance between a tough and scarred hero and a loyal and stubborn heroine.
Random Ramblings:
•Wow, he was an ass in the beginning but I was intrigued
•I’ll give you hugs...thousands of them!
Overall Feeling:
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Megan): 25yrs old – 5/5
Hero (Zachary): 37yrs old – 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Grovel: epic!
Cheating: none
HEA: a perfect ending with babies!
Triggers: none
Average score: 5/5
Best Line: “What frightens me even more is how much I need you. I have never needed another person in my life. You’re like the air I breathe. I can’t be without you now, Megan.”
Worst Line: “Ugliness outside often indicates there’s ugliness underneath.”
Personal Review:
This was an epic romance between a tough and scarred hero and a loyal and stubborn heroine.
Random Ramblings:
•Wow, he was an ass in the beginning but I was intrigued
•I’ll give you hugs...thousands of them!
Overall Feeling:
October 5, 2014
☆ I received an ARC from MaE Tours in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆
3.5 stars!!
I personally really liked this story. Sure, it struggled with some pacing issues and a few execution extremities… BUT, as a whole I enjoyed it.
For me, what stuck out was the concept and premise of the plot and characters. It struck a fresh and out of the box type of feel that brought a different depth of 'brokenness' to both Zachary and Megan. While some of it was heart breaking, some of it also led to inexplicable outcomes that had us readers both reeling and cheering. It was that incredibly raw and powerful.
Author Melanie Moreland brings to the table a compelling and majestic statement with Beneath the Scars as it dwindles a delicate balance between themes of tranquility and disarray of human nature. While some of it can be beautiful and serene, the other half of it can be quite dark and destructive.
A lovely, lovely read that I absolutely adored!♥
3.5 stars!!
I personally really liked this story. Sure, it struggled with some pacing issues and a few execution extremities… BUT, as a whole I enjoyed it.
For me, what stuck out was the concept and premise of the plot and characters. It struck a fresh and out of the box type of feel that brought a different depth of 'brokenness' to both Zachary and Megan. While some of it was heart breaking, some of it also led to inexplicable outcomes that had us readers both reeling and cheering. It was that incredibly raw and powerful.
Author Melanie Moreland brings to the table a compelling and majestic statement with Beneath the Scars as it dwindles a delicate balance between themes of tranquility and disarray of human nature. While some of it can be beautiful and serene, the other half of it can be quite dark and destructive.
A lovely, lovely read that I absolutely adored!♥
October 21, 2014
Review to come
November 5, 2015
Megan and Zachary have migrated to the ocean for the same reason—they’re both hiding from traumatic events in their past. Megan is nursing fresh wounds while Zachary has been holed up far longer, his wounds more grievous, and left to fester for far too long. Zachary has a reputation in the small community, he’s reclusive and rude and not to be bothered. Yet, Megan feels drawn to him, a pull that she’s unable to resist. The harder Zachary pushes her away, the more determined Megan is to break down his walls. Eventually, and with the help of her dog Dixie (and Dixie’s immediate love affair with Zachary’s dog, Elliot), Zachary lets down his walls, inviting Megan into his life—a place that has been empty for him for a long time.
Once Megan begins knocking down walls, she doesn’t stop. Zachary has been deprived of so many things for so long that having Megan opens up this raw need—need for love, for touch, for Megan. Their attraction and their feelings are intense. These are two broken people who have found some sort of salvation in each other. There is such beauty and tenderness here, laying like a balm over their gaping wounds and deep mistrust. Megan breathes life back into Zachary and in turn, Zachary gives Megan a sense of home, a reason to trust herself again, and a deeply profound love.
It is, of course, not all smooth sailing, and Melanie Moreland will break your heart into a million pieces. Then, she’ll craftily and lovingly piece it back together, infusing it with hope and happiness. Watching the transformation of Zachary, and the evolution of his relationship with Megan was a beautiful, heartwarming thing. My heart ached for them, in the very best way.
I am a sucker for Beauty and the Beast stories and this one was no exception. It's lovely and emotional, heart-breaking and redemptive. And, in the end, completely satisfying. ~ Shelly, 4 stars
Once Megan begins knocking down walls, she doesn’t stop. Zachary has been deprived of so many things for so long that having Megan opens up this raw need—need for love, for touch, for Megan. Their attraction and their feelings are intense. These are two broken people who have found some sort of salvation in each other. There is such beauty and tenderness here, laying like a balm over their gaping wounds and deep mistrust. Megan breathes life back into Zachary and in turn, Zachary gives Megan a sense of home, a reason to trust herself again, and a deeply profound love.
It is, of course, not all smooth sailing, and Melanie Moreland will break your heart into a million pieces. Then, she’ll craftily and lovingly piece it back together, infusing it with hope and happiness. Watching the transformation of Zachary, and the evolution of his relationship with Megan was a beautiful, heartwarming thing. My heart ached for them, in the very best way.
I am a sucker for Beauty and the Beast stories and this one was no exception. It's lovely and emotional, heart-breaking and redemptive. And, in the end, completely satisfying. ~ Shelly, 4 stars
February 10, 2017
Well written and really good but there was an insta connection that very quickly turned into love. But I love the tortured Soul, who is grumpy with an element of Beauty and the Beast to it.
Some things were predictable but I'd recommend reading it.
Some things were predictable but I'd recommend reading it.
November 18, 2020
Scars in all forms
Rated 3.5 stars
What a breathtakingly sweet, loving story. Two strangers come together and find a way to get through the rough and hard times but also the fear of losing.
Rated 3.5 stars
What a breathtakingly sweet, loving story. Two strangers come together and find a way to get through the rough and hard times but also the fear of losing.
November 8, 2022
"He said once I let myself feel something good, it would change me. It would change how I felt about the world."
Megan has come to the coast to heal and start over. Zachary has found solace in the waves to forget. Theirs is an unlikely friendship. One who keeps trying with the other trying not to. Once they both give into the pull, theirs is a unique love story. But not without a lot of angst. Megan has some hurdles to overcome but Zachary...whoa...his skeletons have skeletons. This beautiful broken man just has a hard time learning to trust and feel. Ms. Moreland has a way of writing male leads that you can see how their environment and nurture impacts their true nature. Side characters come in and add to the storyline. Megan and Zachary - loved every scene they were in together. There were a few different points in the storyline where I got frustrated with the characters. But that's maybe the true mettle of an author to get you to react.
If you are familiar with her debut book, Into the Storm, this is another complicated relationship journey and filled with angst. You root for the characters to find the connection they desperately need.
Re-Read Review:
Now, having read the entirety of Melanie's catalog, I decided to pick up this hidden gem for a re-read. This is a complicated story of characters - both battered and broken. They aren't looking for a happily ever after, but desperately deserve one. Scars are not always on the surface, and most can't be overcome. However, like these characters, maybe there is a different path where life and love crosses. Stories like this are why I read and love romance.
Recommendation: Buy It.
Megan has come to the coast to heal and start over. Zachary has found solace in the waves to forget. Theirs is an unlikely friendship. One who keeps trying with the other trying not to. Once they both give into the pull, theirs is a unique love story. But not without a lot of angst. Megan has some hurdles to overcome but Zachary...whoa...his skeletons have skeletons. This beautiful broken man just has a hard time learning to trust and feel. Ms. Moreland has a way of writing male leads that you can see how their environment and nurture impacts their true nature. Side characters come in and add to the storyline. Megan and Zachary - loved every scene they were in together. There were a few different points in the storyline where I got frustrated with the characters. But that's maybe the true mettle of an author to get you to react.
If you are familiar with her debut book, Into the Storm, this is another complicated relationship journey and filled with angst. You root for the characters to find the connection they desperately need.
Re-Read Review:
Now, having read the entirety of Melanie's catalog, I decided to pick up this hidden gem for a re-read. This is a complicated story of characters - both battered and broken. They aren't looking for a happily ever after, but desperately deserve one. Scars are not always on the surface, and most can't be overcome. However, like these characters, maybe there is a different path where life and love crosses. Stories like this are why I read and love romance.
Recommendation: Buy It.
November 4, 2014
Click here to enter the giveaway for ebooks and signed paperbacks!
My Review
It takes more than just a good story or realistic characters or even a pretty cover for a book to be a book. The book needs a soul. And Beneath the Scars has soul. I honestly can’t think of any other book in the adult genre that I’ve read that’s gone so deep inside of me, I can’t even explain it.
Megan Greene’s struggle is heart breaking. Betrayed and searching for some quiet, she accepts her friend’s offer to stay in a beach house in New England, Maine, unknowing that this is the decision that will change her life…forever.
Zachary Adams is all-alone in his house at the beach and he prefers it that way. But his friendly neighbour won’t leave him alone.
And slowly, he’s started to like that.
Beneath the Scars started out slow. I remember almost wanting to give up on the book because I wasn’t sure when exactly the “action” would start. But start it did and I loved every minute of it. It had me absolutely hooked and biting my nails.
Megan sees Zachary’s painting at an art gallery, and she just can’t get over the fact that the painting reflects her. Her emotions she’s feeling right now and the chaos in her life. And with that, she’s determined to buy the painting. Only, Zachary isn’t willing to sell it.
Zachary can’t believe the fact that 12 years after the incident that changed his life and took away everything, he’s started to get attracted to his nagging neighbour. She challenges him and breathes life into him. And he’s honestly warming up to her when—in a moment of drunken weakness—she does something that starts a chain of events leading to something that threatens to tears them apart.
Correction: It almost did tear them apart.
The imagery that the author invoked is another thing I’d like to mention. Her setting was already perfect but the way Cliff Beach was described…there are absolutely no words. I could read the words, close my eyes and just be right there. It was perfection.
If I were to talk about Megan individually, I’d say she was a little too perfect. She didn’t make any mistakes—except the aforementioned drunken blunder—and the discovery of that too was entirely coincidental. The case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Zachary, on the other hand, is a complete jerk. I literally couldn’t feel it in myself to even summon an ounce of sympathy for him—until I read about his past. But most importantly, how he felt about his past. His remorse won me over to his side.
But together, these two people brought to me the most amazing story—in the Adult category—I’ve read in some time :) Now go read this, people! Shoo, shoo :D
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal
My Review
It takes more than just a good story or realistic characters or even a pretty cover for a book to be a book. The book needs a soul. And Beneath the Scars has soul. I honestly can’t think of any other book in the adult genre that I’ve read that’s gone so deep inside of me, I can’t even explain it.
Megan Greene’s struggle is heart breaking. Betrayed and searching for some quiet, she accepts her friend’s offer to stay in a beach house in New England, Maine, unknowing that this is the decision that will change her life…forever.
Zachary Adams is all-alone in his house at the beach and he prefers it that way. But his friendly neighbour won’t leave him alone.
And slowly, he’s started to like that.
Beneath the Scars started out slow. I remember almost wanting to give up on the book because I wasn’t sure when exactly the “action” would start. But start it did and I loved every minute of it. It had me absolutely hooked and biting my nails.
Megan sees Zachary’s painting at an art gallery, and she just can’t get over the fact that the painting reflects her. Her emotions she’s feeling right now and the chaos in her life. And with that, she’s determined to buy the painting. Only, Zachary isn’t willing to sell it.
Zachary can’t believe the fact that 12 years after the incident that changed his life and took away everything, he’s started to get attracted to his nagging neighbour. She challenges him and breathes life into him. And he’s honestly warming up to her when—in a moment of drunken weakness—she does something that starts a chain of events leading to something that threatens to tears them apart.
Correction: It almost did tear them apart.
The imagery that the author invoked is another thing I’d like to mention. Her setting was already perfect but the way Cliff Beach was described…there are absolutely no words. I could read the words, close my eyes and just be right there. It was perfection.
If I were to talk about Megan individually, I’d say she was a little too perfect. She didn’t make any mistakes—except the aforementioned drunken blunder—and the discovery of that too was entirely coincidental. The case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Zachary, on the other hand, is a complete jerk. I literally couldn’t feel it in myself to even summon an ounce of sympathy for him—until I read about his past. But most importantly, how he felt about his past. His remorse won me over to his side.
But together, these two people brought to me the most amazing story—in the Adult category—I’ve read in some time :) Now go read this, people! Shoo, shoo :D
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal
October 13, 2014
A woman emotionally beaten down, deceived, humiliated and judged in the court of public opinion seeks a healing place to re-group and get a hold on her life. A mysterious and dark man lives like a hermit just down the beach from Megan. Being anti-social is his only defense against his past and the scars he carries both inside and out. A gifted artist, Zachary is standoffish to the point of cruelty to Megan, who had reached out in friendship, but the kind-heartedness in her keeps her going back for more. There is just something about this damaged man, someone who is far more shattered than she that draws her in.
As she slowly breaks down his resistance, she finds a man longing for love, and to be accepted, who has secrets that are tearing him apart, a man who is able to heal her own pain, as well. But is their love destined to last? Will the outside world interfere on their oasis of peace? Are there still doubts to be overcome? Are there new doubts that will arise?
Beneath the Scars by Melanie Moreland is a painful journey told through the eyes and hearts of both Zachary and Megan, one much darker, one more full of cautious hope. Ms. Moreland has brought together a warm love story about a man who has stopped living and a woman who never really started. Passionate and intense, her writing colors a tale of two imperfect people in an imperfect world, struggling for acceptance, and above all, trust.
I received this ARC edition from Melanie Moreland as part of the Beneath the Scar Release Day Tour, stopping at Tome Tender October 14, 2014.
Publication Date: October 14, 2014
Publisher: Melanie Moreland
Genre: Contemporary Dark Romance
Print Length: 262 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
As she slowly breaks down his resistance, she finds a man longing for love, and to be accepted, who has secrets that are tearing him apart, a man who is able to heal her own pain, as well. But is their love destined to last? Will the outside world interfere on their oasis of peace? Are there still doubts to be overcome? Are there new doubts that will arise?
Beneath the Scars by Melanie Moreland is a painful journey told through the eyes and hearts of both Zachary and Megan, one much darker, one more full of cautious hope. Ms. Moreland has brought together a warm love story about a man who has stopped living and a woman who never really started. Passionate and intense, her writing colors a tale of two imperfect people in an imperfect world, struggling for acceptance, and above all, trust.
I received this ARC edition from Melanie Moreland as part of the Beneath the Scar Release Day Tour, stopping at Tome Tender October 14, 2014.
Publication Date: October 14, 2014
Publisher: Melanie Moreland
Genre: Contemporary Dark Romance
Print Length: 262 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
November 29, 2020
Ok... I have to read more books by this author ASAP. This is the second book I've read and OMG this woman knows how to write amazing characters and great stories.
June 28, 2021
Eh, this was ok? I really loved the beginning, but it just all went downhill the more that I read- (2.5 stars) -
Essentially this was a story about a writer (Megan), who was recently betrayed by her ex-boyfriend- and is in need of an 'escape' so decides to stay in her friend's beach home. It is here where she comes across a secluded neighbor (Zachary) , who is really standoffish and unwelcoming- and this dude is really 'mysterious' and has a pretty messed up past. And it's basically a story about them and their sort of dodgy, unreliable insta-love relationship.
I thought that the book was ok. I really enjoyed the overall concept of the story, however felt like it was just executed poorly. I loved the beginning of the book, and the introduction of the characters, however as time went on, the story just sort of declined? Their whole relationship just felt so rushed, and the whole insta-love thing just didn't end up working in their case. I felt like the pacing was off, and that there were a lot of blank spaces in their relationship, which just led to so much miscommunication and misunderstanding.
I guess one of my main problems with the book was with the heroine and her whole thought process and mindset coming into the relationship (I mean the same does go for the hero, but more so for the heroine) - For the majority of the story, Megan wanted to be the one to change Zachary and his personality, as opposed to just being there for him. I felt like her actions at times were quite pushy and really naive. Like I'm sorry to break it to you, but I'm pretty sure that you're not going to be able to fix 37+ years of trauma and isolation, in like a week with 'the power of love ✌️'.
There were also times in which I felt like Megan was just really hypocritical with what she had said and done in the story- as she never really took responsibility for some of her actions, which were clearly her fault (linking back to that naivety that I talked about earlier).
I was also kind of annoyed with everyone's interactions with Zachary, mainly towards the middle/ ending of the book. Although they acknowledged his problems, I often thought that they were just quite inconsiderate- he was clearly uncomfortable at times and wasn't ready to do different things- yet people kept on pushing him, then getting mad and frustrated when he obviously wasn't ready- it was just annoying to see all these people expecting such great things after such a short amount of time. I mean having said all this, Zachary at times was also quite inconsiderate with what he said, but there wasn't really a proper time scale to judge his development.
I felt like it was just a consistent, repetitive story where the two main characters acted oblivious, and never truly listened and communicated with one another- it was just frustrating.
Now here is my very poor interpretation of how a lot of their conversations went:
Zachary: Sup.
Megan: Love you.
Zachary: Do you though?
Megan: Yeah.
Zachary: That's nice, love you too.
Megan: Thanks, but do you really?
Zachary: Yas, but do you love me though?
Megan: Boy yes, but I don't think u love me.
...( and repeat).
Overall it was an ok story, the execution and writing just didn't end up working for me, as I really lost interest in the story towards the end. I mean the ending was pretty cute, and I did really come to care for some of these characters over time (I'm looking at you Zachary) . There just wasn't enough development for my tastes, which led to a lot of mistrust and cliche plotlines (I think that the fact that this was an insta-love, just genuinely didn't work). I'm kind of disappointed that I didn't like the story as much as I could've, but hey.
Ok that's it from me ✌️.
Essentially this was a story about a writer (Megan), who was recently betrayed by her ex-boyfriend- and is in need of an 'escape' so decides to stay in her friend's beach home. It is here where she comes across a secluded neighbor (Zachary) , who is really standoffish and unwelcoming- and this dude is really 'mysterious' and has a pretty messed up past. And it's basically a story about them and their sort of dodgy, unreliable insta-love relationship.
I thought that the book was ok. I really enjoyed the overall concept of the story, however felt like it was just executed poorly. I loved the beginning of the book, and the introduction of the characters, however as time went on, the story just sort of declined? Their whole relationship just felt so rushed, and the whole insta-love thing just didn't end up working in their case. I felt like the pacing was off, and that there were a lot of blank spaces in their relationship, which just led to so much miscommunication and misunderstanding.
I guess one of my main problems with the book was with the heroine and her whole thought process and mindset coming into the relationship (I mean the same does go for the hero, but more so for the heroine) - For the majority of the story, Megan wanted to be the one to change Zachary and his personality, as opposed to just being there for him. I felt like her actions at times were quite pushy and really naive. Like I'm sorry to break it to you, but I'm pretty sure that you're not going to be able to fix 37+ years of trauma and isolation, in like a week with 'the power of love ✌️'.
There were also times in which I felt like Megan was just really hypocritical with what she had said and done in the story- as she never really took responsibility for some of her actions, which were clearly her fault (linking back to that naivety that I talked about earlier).
I was also kind of annoyed with everyone's interactions with Zachary, mainly towards the middle/ ending of the book. Although they acknowledged his problems, I often thought that they were just quite inconsiderate- he was clearly uncomfortable at times and wasn't ready to do different things- yet people kept on pushing him, then getting mad and frustrated when he obviously wasn't ready- it was just annoying to see all these people expecting such great things after such a short amount of time. I mean having said all this, Zachary at times was also quite inconsiderate with what he said, but there wasn't really a proper time scale to judge his development.
I felt like it was just a consistent, repetitive story where the two main characters acted oblivious, and never truly listened and communicated with one another- it was just frustrating.
Now here is my very poor interpretation of how a lot of their conversations went:
Zachary: Sup.
Megan: Love you.
Zachary: Do you though?
Megan: Yeah.
Zachary: That's nice, love you too.
Megan: Thanks, but do you really?
Zachary: Yas, but do you love me though?
Megan: Boy yes, but I don't think u love me.
...( and repeat).
Overall it was an ok story, the execution and writing just didn't end up working for me, as I really lost interest in the story towards the end. I mean the ending was pretty cute, and I did really come to care for some of these characters over time (I'm looking at you Zachary) . There just wasn't enough development for my tastes, which led to a lot of mistrust and cliche plotlines (I think that the fact that this was an insta-love, just genuinely didn't work). I'm kind of disappointed that I didn't like the story as much as I could've, but hey.
Ok that's it from me ✌️.
February 16, 2018
Zachary ist mürrisch!
Sie sind beide in Maine um ihrer Vergangenheit zu entfliehen und finden hier mehr als die Ruhe, die sie suchen ...
Als Megan das Gemälde entdeckt, das ihr mürrischer Nachbar gemalt hat, ist sie fasziniert von der Schönheit des Bildes und der Gefühle, die es ausdrückt. Sie muss es unbedingt haben. Aber Zachary lässt niemanden an sich heran. Auch wenn er bei Megans Anblick Dinge empfindet, die er schon lange nicht mehr zugelassen hat, kann er es nicht zulassen, wieder verletzt zu werden.
Protagonisten
Megan hatte eine üble Erfahrung und wurde verraten, darum will sie nun etwas Ruhe um sich zu sammeln und ein wenig zu schreiben. Dann trifft sie den mürrischen Zachary und erkennt sofort, dass in ihm viel mehr steckt, als die Leute erkennen können, wenn sie nur seine Narben betrachten. Sie erkennt die ganzen Emotionen in seinen Gemälden und will ihm unbedingt irgendwie helfen. Dabei kommt sie ihm immer entgegen und versucht, ihn nicht zu bedrängen, will aber auch möglichst viel über ihn wissen.
Also ich kann ihre Faszination schon verstehen, bin mir aber nicht sicher, ob da nicht auch Mitleid und Neugier eine große Rolle spielen. Oh, mysteriöser, undurchschaubarer Typ mit so vielen Emotionen. So heiß!
Zachary fand Megan auf den ersten Blick anziehend, was ich nicht so toll fand. Ich bin einfach gegen diese plötzliche Liebe, die Charaktere in Büchern einfach so überkommt. Er war jahrelang allein und einsam und dann - oh, Megan! Aber er will sich ihr trotzdem nicht nähern, sondern sich trotzdem von ihr fernhalten, denn das funktioniert schließlich. Er mag Menschen einfach nicht, weil eigentlich jeder nur oberflächlich und egoistisch ist, so wie Zachary selbst und die Leute, die ihn enttäuscht haben. Er ist zynisch, schlecht gelaunt und erwartet eben von jedem Menschen das Schlimmste. Jeden Moment rechnet er damit, dass Megan ihn verraten könnte, egal wie oft sie das Gegenteil beteuert. Zwischendurch ist er auch ruhig, aber bei jeder Kleinigkeit kehren seine Zweifel zurück.
Handlung und Schreibstil
Ich fand die Geschichten der beiden Charaktere eigentlich ganz interessant. Zachary, der früher mal erfolgreich war, und Megan, deren Buch geklaut wurde. Die Idee gefiel mir an sich schon. Aber die Charaktere konnten mich irgendwie nicht ganz überzeugen. Sie wiederholen die gleichen Verhaltensmuster immer und immer wieder. Ich kann schon verstehen, dass es Zachary nach all der Zeit schwerfällt, sich zu ändern, aber die ständigen Wiederholungen waren schon anstrengend.
Fazit
Ich fand "Beneath the Scars" recht mittelmäßig. Es hat mich teilweise gut unterhalten, aber die Wiederholungen und die Liebe auf den ersten Blick haben mir nicht gut gefallen.
Sie sind beide in Maine um ihrer Vergangenheit zu entfliehen und finden hier mehr als die Ruhe, die sie suchen ...
Als Megan das Gemälde entdeckt, das ihr mürrischer Nachbar gemalt hat, ist sie fasziniert von der Schönheit des Bildes und der Gefühle, die es ausdrückt. Sie muss es unbedingt haben. Aber Zachary lässt niemanden an sich heran. Auch wenn er bei Megans Anblick Dinge empfindet, die er schon lange nicht mehr zugelassen hat, kann er es nicht zulassen, wieder verletzt zu werden.
Protagonisten
Megan hatte eine üble Erfahrung und wurde verraten, darum will sie nun etwas Ruhe um sich zu sammeln und ein wenig zu schreiben. Dann trifft sie den mürrischen Zachary und erkennt sofort, dass in ihm viel mehr steckt, als die Leute erkennen können, wenn sie nur seine Narben betrachten. Sie erkennt die ganzen Emotionen in seinen Gemälden und will ihm unbedingt irgendwie helfen. Dabei kommt sie ihm immer entgegen und versucht, ihn nicht zu bedrängen, will aber auch möglichst viel über ihn wissen.
Also ich kann ihre Faszination schon verstehen, bin mir aber nicht sicher, ob da nicht auch Mitleid und Neugier eine große Rolle spielen. Oh, mysteriöser, undurchschaubarer Typ mit so vielen Emotionen. So heiß!
Zachary fand Megan auf den ersten Blick anziehend, was ich nicht so toll fand. Ich bin einfach gegen diese plötzliche Liebe, die Charaktere in Büchern einfach so überkommt. Er war jahrelang allein und einsam und dann - oh, Megan! Aber er will sich ihr trotzdem nicht nähern, sondern sich trotzdem von ihr fernhalten, denn das funktioniert schließlich. Er mag Menschen einfach nicht, weil eigentlich jeder nur oberflächlich und egoistisch ist, so wie Zachary selbst und die Leute, die ihn enttäuscht haben. Er ist zynisch, schlecht gelaunt und erwartet eben von jedem Menschen das Schlimmste. Jeden Moment rechnet er damit, dass Megan ihn verraten könnte, egal wie oft sie das Gegenteil beteuert. Zwischendurch ist er auch ruhig, aber bei jeder Kleinigkeit kehren seine Zweifel zurück.
Handlung und Schreibstil
Ich fand die Geschichten der beiden Charaktere eigentlich ganz interessant. Zachary, der früher mal erfolgreich war, und Megan, deren Buch geklaut wurde. Die Idee gefiel mir an sich schon. Aber die Charaktere konnten mich irgendwie nicht ganz überzeugen. Sie wiederholen die gleichen Verhaltensmuster immer und immer wieder. Ich kann schon verstehen, dass es Zachary nach all der Zeit schwerfällt, sich zu ändern, aber die ständigen Wiederholungen waren schon anstrengend.
Fazit
Ich fand "Beneath the Scars" recht mittelmäßig. Es hat mich teilweise gut unterhalten, aber die Wiederholungen und die Liebe auf den ersten Blick haben mir nicht gut gefallen.
July 26, 2020
I'm really liking this author. She writes a very entertaining story, though low steam level. However, I've been guaranteed a good read in each book of hers I've read. The story is well thought out and well told.
This was a good one. Zachary is a scarred and bitter man and wants to be alone. Megan is a sweet young woman who has had a hard time lately. While Zachary wants nothing to do with her, matters occur and Zachary and Megan grow closer to one another.
They really are very sweet together but you know something is going to happen to cause a separation so that was a bit predictable but the angst it brought was nice. I love me some good angst.
💔
Definitely give this author a try. The sex scenes aren't behind closed doors but they aren't very explicit or erotic. I would say a 3/5. Still very sweet love scenes and a bit sexy.
Quotes & Faves:
♥ His broad hand cupped my cheek. “I love hearing it fill the house. I never realized how empty it was before you were there.”
“Then I met you,” he rasped. “You, with your sweet words and loving soul. You didn’t care about my scars or my past. You saw me. You saw the pain I put on my canvases and all you wanted was to make it go away, to understand it.”
“But I love you. God help me, I’ve tried to fight it, to fight you, but I can’t. I love you so much it scares me.”
He lifted his hand, shaking, reaching out to me. “What frightens me even more is how much I need you. I have never needed another person in my life. You’re like the air I breathe. I can’t be without you now, Megan.” His voice was beseeching. “I can’t.”
This was a good one. Zachary is a scarred and bitter man and wants to be alone. Megan is a sweet young woman who has had a hard time lately. While Zachary wants nothing to do with her, matters occur and Zachary and Megan grow closer to one another.
They really are very sweet together but you know something is going to happen to cause a separation so that was a bit predictable but the angst it brought was nice. I love me some good angst.
💔
Definitely give this author a try. The sex scenes aren't behind closed doors but they aren't very explicit or erotic. I would say a 3/5. Still very sweet love scenes and a bit sexy.
Quotes & Faves:
♥ His broad hand cupped my cheek. “I love hearing it fill the house. I never realized how empty it was before you were there.”
“Then I met you,” he rasped. “You, with your sweet words and loving soul. You didn’t care about my scars or my past. You saw me. You saw the pain I put on my canvases and all you wanted was to make it go away, to understand it.”
“But I love you. God help me, I’ve tried to fight it, to fight you, but I can’t. I love you so much it scares me.”
He lifted his hand, shaking, reaching out to me. “What frightens me even more is how much I need you. I have never needed another person in my life. You’re like the air I breathe. I can’t be without you now, Megan.” His voice was beseeching. “I can’t.”
Want to read
August 7, 2014 I love the sound of this!
The sound of the ocean, the crash of the waves as they kick up against the sand and rocks—these are the only sounds Megan Greene wants to hear. She wants to leave the rest of the world behind, and find some peace.
The offer of a private house on the beach, set in a small town in Maine, is perfect. Time to think—to be by herself. It’s all she wants. It’s the escape she needs.
Until she stumbles across the painting that seems to echo her own chaotic mindset.
Until she meets the unfriendly artist behind the stormy painting and discovers his secrets.
All Zachary Adams wants is to be left alone. His canvases, and the unending scope of the ocean and sand, are his life. They direct him—fill his hours. Bring him focus.
Until she enters his life.
She dredges up memories of the past—the haunting images he has hidden for years; the fears he has never shared.
A story he keeps buried below the surface.
Can she make him see what he is missing? Can he trust her enough to believe?
Together they embark on a journey where their pasts collide and threaten to tear them apart.
Will their fragile bond hold or wash away with the ebbing tide?
RELEASE DATE: OCTOBER 14, 2014
The sound of the ocean, the crash of the waves as they kick up against the sand and rocks—these are the only sounds Megan Greene wants to hear. She wants to leave the rest of the world behind, and find some peace.
The offer of a private house on the beach, set in a small town in Maine, is perfect. Time to think—to be by herself. It’s all she wants. It’s the escape she needs.
Until she stumbles across the painting that seems to echo her own chaotic mindset.
Until she meets the unfriendly artist behind the stormy painting and discovers his secrets.
All Zachary Adams wants is to be left alone. His canvases, and the unending scope of the ocean and sand, are his life. They direct him—fill his hours. Bring him focus.
Until she enters his life.
She dredges up memories of the past—the haunting images he has hidden for years; the fears he has never shared.
A story he keeps buried below the surface.
Can she make him see what he is missing? Can he trust her enough to believe?
Together they embark on a journey where their pasts collide and threaten to tear them apart.
Will their fragile bond hold or wash away with the ebbing tide?
RELEASE DATE: OCTOBER 14, 2014
March 8, 2018
This story f...... hurt !! Hurt with a captial "H". It was beautiful - raw and emotional and I was crying while sitting at the beach in the sun amongst other people that were simply enjoying their holiday. Do I need to say any more ?
June 30, 2018
War mir zu theatralisch und melodramatisch und alles viiiiel zu übertrieben. Außerdem ging Zacharys Verhalten überhaupt nicht und Megan hat 90% des Buches geflennt *menno*
June 18, 2017
This couple did not have a lot going for them, Megan had been deceived and ran away to lick her wounds, her previous life and dreams in tatters, Zachary, the damaged recluse artist pushed everyone away who even attempted to make small talk, with all these issues and secrets its a wonder they found their way to one another.
Megan is a sweetheart, she believes the good in people, despite evidence to the contrary, and she gives Zachary a number of chances, pushing his boundaries. Zachary is drawn to her, but refuses to give into it, wanting to stay in his solitude.
In all this book is about trust, and how when you have that instant connection and get swept up in a relationship you don't always build the trust that you need to keep it going. The background of both parties mean that trust is always an issue.
I enjoyed the book, it was a quick read, I completed it in a day. I have to say my favourite character was Karen, I really liked her interaction with Zachary - Fierce! I would definitely go on to read more by this author
Megan is a sweetheart, she believes the good in people, despite evidence to the contrary, and she gives Zachary a number of chances, pushing his boundaries. Zachary is drawn to her, but refuses to give into it, wanting to stay in his solitude.
In all this book is about trust, and how when you have that instant connection and get swept up in a relationship you don't always build the trust that you need to keep it going. The background of both parties mean that trust is always an issue.
I enjoyed the book, it was a quick read, I completed it in a day. I have to say my favourite character was Karen, I really liked her interaction with Zachary - Fierce! I would definitely go on to read more by this author
October 8, 2017
Beneath the Scars by Melanie Moreland still has my body with all the feels!
I went into this book totally blind. I hadn't read the blurb, and wasn't sure what to expect. And I have to say that Moreland blew me away!
She took two characters who were both fighting past marred with ugly and pain, and showed them both that there could be more.
Megan and Zachary bring so much to the table. They both have the passion to create within themselves, but they're both fighting demons from their past that impedes their progress forward.
I love the way Moreland weaves this story together and holds you spellbound, waiting to see if they'll get their HEA.
5 Stars!!!
I went into this book totally blind. I hadn't read the blurb, and wasn't sure what to expect. And I have to say that Moreland blew me away!
She took two characters who were both fighting past marred with ugly and pain, and showed them both that there could be more.
Megan and Zachary bring so much to the table. They both have the passion to create within themselves, but they're both fighting demons from their past that impedes their progress forward.
I love the way Moreland weaves this story together and holds you spellbound, waiting to see if they'll get their HEA.
5 Stars!!!
March 16, 2017
"Received an ARC for honest review"
This heart wrenching novel is quite a change for what I normally read, but let me tell you it was the best surprise for me. I absolutely fell in love with it.
Megan is looking for an escape, she meets Zachary, who just wants to be alone. They are both going through some very difficult stages in their lives, but still they find. a way to help each other.
It's a must read story for anyone looking for this sort of reading, you won't be disappointed at all. I'll also make sure to read more from this author, her writing is quite good.
This heart wrenching novel is quite a change for what I normally read, but let me tell you it was the best surprise for me. I absolutely fell in love with it.
Megan is looking for an escape, she meets Zachary, who just wants to be alone. They are both going through some very difficult stages in their lives, but still they find. a way to help each other.
It's a must read story for anyone looking for this sort of reading, you won't be disappointed at all. I'll also make sure to read more from this author, her writing is quite good.
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