The Scars of Us by Nikki Narvaez

Kaiya Marlow has always been cautious, precise in every decision she makes. When her dark past threatens to resurface, she decides to take precautions to protect herself by enrolling in self-defense classes at her gym.

Her instructor, Ryker Campbell, is the tattooed womanizer everyone warns about. Kaiya attempts to resist Ryker's advances, but the more time they spend training together, the harder it is for Kaiya to resist him.

Ryker's view on relationships is simple: strictly sex, nothing more. Haunted by demons from his past, he never allows himself to become attached to any woman. No attachment means no weakness, no vulnerability, no pain. He doesn't realize that his whole world is about to be turned upside down when Kaiya enters his self-defense class. Determined to have her, at least for one night, Ryker sets a plan into motion that will change both of their lives forever.

Will love be able to heal their scars, or are they too deep to overcome?

I really need to start this review by stating that if you are sensitive to the issue of sexually and physically abuse, specifically by a family member - than this book may not be for you.

The topic was definitely handled with care, but I feel the need to just put that warning out there.

Even after 8 years, since the “incident” – Kaiya is still dealing with the demons of the abuse she suffered growing up.  Her brother, Kamden has been her rock during this time.  He’s always been protective of his “Sorella”, sister, but he’s been even more so after the “incident”.  They live together – and he is always there to help chase the demons away, when they show.

Kaiya meets Ryker at the gym where Kamden works out at.  Attraction is immediate – but, she pushes it away because she knows he’s a player – and she’s sure he would never agree to all her rules about sex.  After a few encounters that get hot really quick – and usually end in her freaking out – Ryker is left confused what to do about this girl he can’t get out of his head.

Kaiya can’t deny her attraction to Ryker – and after joining a self-defense class, which Ryker happens to teach, she finds it even harder to keep her feelings for him at bay.  Ryker knows he’s affecting her, he’s sexy and loves to tease her – just to prove that she can’t deny what’s there.

 

But they both have trust issues.  Both have been hurt by people they loved and believed they could trust.  They both struggle with letting go – and giving each other a chance at finally opening up and trusting another person.

 Riker is so perfect for Kaiya – he’s so sweet, loving and sexy – and knows how to give her exactly what she needs emotionally and physically when she needs it.  He promises never to let anyone hurt her again – and she’s finally going to take the chance and believe him. 

 This was a beautiful story of a woman finding love and trust and becoming the true "Warrior" that she is, after being hurt in an unimaginable way.  Ryker was the man who stepped up to the plate, and helped her heal – not letting her run.  Their love would help heal all of their scars.