The Scars Within

By: Ang T. Dalton

Narrated by: Ellie Gossage, Garrett Kiesel

When a young woman—scarred by fire, bonded to a dragon, and wielding forbidden magic—enters an elite magic academy, she must survive deadly secrets, a prophecy that could end the world, and a dangerous love triangle with two rival brothers in this explosive romantasy perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Throne of Glass, and Powerless.

One girl. Two brothers. A school built on secrets. And a bond that could burn down the world.

Scarlet Throne has been broken. Burned alive and survived.

Now, she’s a wild card with forbidden magic and a dragon with no memories—enrolled in Mageia War College only because she has nowhere else to go. She’s supposed to stay quiet. Stay controlled. Stay away from too much power. It’s too bad staying in control has never been her strong suit.

She never expected to find purpose. Or friends. Or to fall for two brothers with secrets of their own. Caught between the welcoming and charming Shayde and the unpredictable and dangerous Rhodes, Scarlet must guard her heart as fiercely as her life. Falling for either of them would be a mistake. Falling for both could be deadly.

But love isn’t the only fire rising. Someone is hunting Scarlet from within the college walls. Professors are dying and whispers are swirling that she is the one destined to destroy them all. And the more Scarlet digs for truth, the more her own darkness threatens to break free.

As dark truths unravel and betrayal cuts deeper than any blade, Scarlet must confront the trauma she’s buried, the power she’s never asked for, and a fate that may cost her everything.

The Scars Within is a spellbinding romantasy packed with slow-burn heat, found family, snarky banter, and a dangerous romance that scorches through every page.

true romance

this book has seriously good romance from first perspectives. not very spicy but so good.

The scars within

This was one of the best books that I have ever read! I really enjoyed it!

Mental Health Awareness in Romantasy

I enjoyed this book. Yes it is reminiscent of other Romantasy books due to including a military college, dragons, and lost family. BUT, it also brings some new aspects to the table. While reading this, I found myself thinking about what will happen next. I connected to the characters, speculated on next steps, and was very surprised at the ending of this book. Realizing that this is the first book in a series, I understand why some things aren’t entirely explained in the first installment. I recommend this book for fans of Romantasy, especially if you have personally experienced or been affected by depression, suicidal ideation, or living through your rock bottom. “You were meant for more” ;

2026 Reread

Fantastic read! The authors emotions and trauma truly come alive in the life of Scarlett. And my favorite line, "Not everything that shatters is meant to stay broken". So, so good! Can't wait for the next one. (Just reread in 2026 to prepare for the second one!)

Mental health aspects and the slow burn.

Great book. If you loved Fourth Wing, you’ll love this one too. Can’t wait for book 2.