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Milltown Series #1
Broken Road
Is twenty years too late for a second chance?
Fun-loving and loyal to her bones, Ruby Vasilakis lived wholeheartedly.
And when she fell in love?
She fell far.
She fell fast.
She fell forever.
Until tragedy forced her to choose between him and her family.
The decision was simple.
And it crushed her.
Family first.
Now, after two decades, Ruby’s heart walks right through her door.
Every cell in her body yearns to go to him.
And he says he’s ready for her.
For twenty years, Vander Vitalis lived with his heart divided. Until now. He cleared every obstacle between them. There is nothing he won’t overcome to be with her.
Including the one thing that remains.
Her fear.
Will Ruby claim the love always meant to be hers or will she break his heart at the foot of their broken road? Mental Health, Child Abandonment, Loss.
Fun-loving and loyal to her bones, Ruby Vasilakis lived wholeheartedly.
And when she fell in love?
She fell far.
She fell fast.
She fell forever.
Until tragedy forced her to choose between him and her family.
The decision was simple.
And it crushed her.
Family first.
Now, after two decades, Ruby’s heart walks right through her door.
Every cell in her body yearns to go to him.
And he says he’s ready for her.
For twenty years, Vander Vitalis lived with his heart divided. Until now. He cleared every obstacle between them. There is nothing he won’t overcome to be with her.
Including the one thing that remains.
Her fear.
Will Ruby claim the love always meant to be hers or will she break his heart at the foot of their broken road? Mental Health, Child Abandonment, Loss.
Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 8, 2021
While I adore finding a new talent in contemporary romance that I can follow throughout a long and illustrious career, I’m not sure I’ve ever come across the depth of raw talent that we find in Devin Sloane's work. And I swear, nobody writes a hero like Devin's heroes, and each new hero is better than the last.
Her stories are rich with unvarnished, heart-wrenching emotion and authentic challenges many face but too few are willing to bring into the light. At the heart of her characters is someone who simply wants to be accepted and loved just as they are, to find that one person who perfectly completes them in all their messy, unadulterated glory. And really, isn’t that what we all hope to find?
Ruby and Vander shared a young love, ripe with hopes and dreams of a forever together. Then life intruded and they went separate ways, with neither fully understanding the other's reasoning. Now, 20 years later, Vander has returned to Milltown with a singular goal: make Ruby his, once and for all.
But twenty years is a long time. Things change, people change, and an entire lifetime can pass. It's never simply a matter of picking back up where you left off all those years ago, and Vander has a lot of work ahead of him if he's going to make himself a part of Ruby's life again.
These two. Gah! Their road to forever is beyond broken, with pitfalls and mountains to traverse and overcome, and I experienced each event and emotion right alongside them. There's a spellbinding magic in the way they charm the reader and carry her along throughout their story. They deal with some formidable and difficult subjects, all gently, carefully handled and all of it making me love them even more.
Authentic, evocative and resonant, Ruby and Vander's story will enthrall you while leaving a mark so deep on your soul they’ll be a part of you forever. The thread of hope in this epic romance reminds us that love is out there, that it's always worth fighting for, and that it’s never too late to find our own epic love no matter where we are in life.
If you only read one romance this year, make it Ruby and Vander's magnificent story. Easily one of my top five reads this year, make sure you don’t miss this extraordinary, unparalleled, unforgettable romance.
Her stories are rich with unvarnished, heart-wrenching emotion and authentic challenges many face but too few are willing to bring into the light. At the heart of her characters is someone who simply wants to be accepted and loved just as they are, to find that one person who perfectly completes them in all their messy, unadulterated glory. And really, isn’t that what we all hope to find?
Ruby and Vander shared a young love, ripe with hopes and dreams of a forever together. Then life intruded and they went separate ways, with neither fully understanding the other's reasoning. Now, 20 years later, Vander has returned to Milltown with a singular goal: make Ruby his, once and for all.
But twenty years is a long time. Things change, people change, and an entire lifetime can pass. It's never simply a matter of picking back up where you left off all those years ago, and Vander has a lot of work ahead of him if he's going to make himself a part of Ruby's life again.
These two. Gah! Their road to forever is beyond broken, with pitfalls and mountains to traverse and overcome, and I experienced each event and emotion right alongside them. There's a spellbinding magic in the way they charm the reader and carry her along throughout their story. They deal with some formidable and difficult subjects, all gently, carefully handled and all of it making me love them even more.
Authentic, evocative and resonant, Ruby and Vander's story will enthrall you while leaving a mark so deep on your soul they’ll be a part of you forever. The thread of hope in this epic romance reminds us that love is out there, that it's always worth fighting for, and that it’s never too late to find our own epic love no matter where we are in life.
If you only read one romance this year, make it Ruby and Vander's magnificent story. Easily one of my top five reads this year, make sure you don’t miss this extraordinary, unparalleled, unforgettable romance.
January 5, 2022
ARC REVIEW:
Can a love be strong enough to spand decades?
Once again Devin has written another beautiful story. Ruby and Vander’s story is one of love, heartbreak and a never ending hope that had me tearing up again.
The struggle Ruby had to go through early on in life, then the loss of her grandfather that derailed her plans and a future with the man she loved was gut wrenching.
The love and devotion Vander has for Ruby melts the heart. Sure, he made a dick move early on in the story but he thought he was helping her, when in turn he was hurting her.
This story is full of love, hope and spice. A beautiful way to start off the Milltown series.
Can a love be strong enough to spand decades?
Once again Devin has written another beautiful story. Ruby and Vander’s story is one of love, heartbreak and a never ending hope that had me tearing up again.
The struggle Ruby had to go through early on in life, then the loss of her grandfather that derailed her plans and a future with the man she loved was gut wrenching.
The love and devotion Vander has for Ruby melts the heart. Sure, he made a dick move early on in the story but he thought he was helping her, when in turn he was hurting her.
This story is full of love, hope and spice. A beautiful way to start off the Milltown series.
December 19, 2021
Oh my gosh your gonna wanna grab your box of tissues with this one.. it had me crying like a baby one moment & then laughing another lol..
Ruby & Vander were university sweethearts.. due to miss communication & some other stuff I don’t wanna spoil the book lol but they end up going their separate ways..
Over two decades later Vander is back & fighting for her to give them another chance.. will they be able to get past everything.. will he be able to prove to ruby that they belong together.. or will it be another miss..
This was such a great book & so well written.. it has so many feels in it you will definitely be feeling for these two..
“This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review."
Ruby & Vander were university sweethearts.. due to miss communication & some other stuff I don’t wanna spoil the book lol but they end up going their separate ways..
Over two decades later Vander is back & fighting for her to give them another chance.. will they be able to get past everything.. will he be able to prove to ruby that they belong together.. or will it be another miss..
This was such a great book & so well written.. it has so many feels in it you will definitely be feeling for these two..
“This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review."
December 13, 2021
There needs to be a disclaimer on every book that Devin Sloane writes that says, “DO NOT READ THIS AT BEDTIME OTHERWISE YOU WILL END UP PULLING AN ALL-NIGHTER AND SEE THE SUNRISE AS YOU READ THE LAST PAGE!” I mean the emotions that ooze out of every page is addicting. It’s a gift to be able to get your readers to care about the characters and viscerally feel every emotion/reaction they portray. Contemporary romance readers: do yourself a favor and read every one of Devin Sloane’s books. You will feel ALL THE FEELS while reading about life in its rawest form.
December 9, 2021
Devin Sloane has an uncanny ability to pull such strong emotions out of me. There are very few books that hit me viscerally, too the point that I need to step away and breathe. Broken Road is just such a book. And so utterly , beautifully worth the rollercoaster. This is a book that SHOULD be read.
Through Ruby I felt the monumental challenge of dealing with mental health challenges. Her agoraphobia was no simple plot design, but very real. The stress, anxiety, crippling fear, and sheer effort of breaking through the glass wall as she describes it is both heartbreaking and uplifting, because you can’t help but feel each and every victory she claims.
And through Vander, there’s equal heartbreak, the strain of knowing there is no good choice in a situation, anger (okay, not going to lie, a few times, I was absolutely furious), and the utter determination to finally claim Ruby as his.
Then there’s the love. It’s even more intense than all those other emotions. Not simply the love & passion between Ruby and Vander (which seriously is beyond hot), but the love of family, friends, and community. Yiayia, Amber, Jace, Alex, and maybe especially George, all took pieces of my heart. I did not want to say goodbye to Milltown, and can’t wait to visit it again for Amber’s story!
Through Ruby I felt the monumental challenge of dealing with mental health challenges. Her agoraphobia was no simple plot design, but very real. The stress, anxiety, crippling fear, and sheer effort of breaking through the glass wall as she describes it is both heartbreaking and uplifting, because you can’t help but feel each and every victory she claims.
And through Vander, there’s equal heartbreak, the strain of knowing there is no good choice in a situation, anger (okay, not going to lie, a few times, I was absolutely furious), and the utter determination to finally claim Ruby as his.
Then there’s the love. It’s even more intense than all those other emotions. Not simply the love & passion between Ruby and Vander (which seriously is beyond hot), but the love of family, friends, and community. Yiayia, Amber, Jace, Alex, and maybe especially George, all took pieces of my heart. I did not want to say goodbye to Milltown, and can’t wait to visit it again for Amber’s story!
December 15, 2021
Wow! Broken Road is one of the most incredible books I've ever read. (Not just recently, EVER!). I laughed, I cried, I fell for the characters and I experienced all of their troubles, heartbreak, joy, and excitement along with them.
Ruby and Vander have a beautiful soul-deep love for each other that you can feel emanating off the pages. I loved their struggle and their redemption and I loved how they took all of the times that life pushed them apart and fought for what was theirs. Their love and support for each other was genuine and truly enjoyable to read.
Devin Sloane wrote beautiful characters that are fun, interesting, relatable, and just wonderful to read about.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Ruby and Vander have a beautiful soul-deep love for each other that you can feel emanating off the pages. I loved their struggle and their redemption and I loved how they took all of the times that life pushed them apart and fought for what was theirs. Their love and support for each other was genuine and truly enjoyable to read.
Devin Sloane wrote beautiful characters that are fun, interesting, relatable, and just wonderful to read about.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
December 15, 2021
Broken Road by Devin Sloane is hands down the most angst filled book I have read to date. Vander and Ruby have an on/off relationship that spans decades due to a lack of communication. This heart wrenching story is about navigating life, love and loss while dealing with the complexities and insecurities that accompany blending families and an agoraphobia diagnosis. The latter of which anyone who has experienced some type of anxiety can relate. Did I mention that a twist I was hoping for came true? Well it did, and I highly recommend you pick this read up to find out what it is. (wink wink) Oh and food! There is lots and lots of FOOD! Hey I'm told it's a Greek thing as that's the background of the H/h.
April 18, 2022
I first ran across this author on Instagram, and I was happy to see she wrote romances with mature characters for readers who have lived past their college sweetheart days. I love all romance tropes, and after reading past the fun college love, this one became complex. Ruby has lost a lot at an early age, but when she loses her college sweetheart, she leans on her yiayia and her sister to pull her through. Plagued by anxiety that’s complicated with agoraphobia, she’s too embarrassed to go to her first love, Vander, and tell him about her fears. The idea of getting on a plane is too much for Ruby, and the responsibilities she acquires when her Papou dies, is enough to seal their fate.
Everyone deserves a second chance, but a lot of things have changed since Ruby last saw Vander. He now has a son, and the love she’d hoped for seems just out of reach. Still battling her inner demons and not leaving her safe zone, things are too complicated to make a go of their relationship again, but will they get some sort of reprieve?
Broken Road, by Devin Sloane, is aptly named because of the zig-zag-life-zingers that Vander and Ruby navigate and the time it takes to see this love through to its happy ending. I liked that the characters battled real problems and life circumstances that weren’t always working in their favor. It’s a long-contemporary romance that shows Ruby’s journey to find stability in life while helping her family to succeed and stay together. Vander has his journey too, and sometimes making the right choices hurts more than the years apart can repair. A real heartwarming story, stitched with love, loss and the dedication to see things through.
Everyone deserves a second chance, but a lot of things have changed since Ruby last saw Vander. He now has a son, and the love she’d hoped for seems just out of reach. Still battling her inner demons and not leaving her safe zone, things are too complicated to make a go of their relationship again, but will they get some sort of reprieve?
Broken Road, by Devin Sloane, is aptly named because of the zig-zag-life-zingers that Vander and Ruby navigate and the time it takes to see this love through to its happy ending. I liked that the characters battled real problems and life circumstances that weren’t always working in their favor. It’s a long-contemporary romance that shows Ruby’s journey to find stability in life while helping her family to succeed and stay together. Vander has his journey too, and sometimes making the right choices hurts more than the years apart can repair. A real heartwarming story, stitched with love, loss and the dedication to see things through.
December 24, 2021
Devin Sloane is at it again breaking my heart and putting it back together with another amazing book! I was lucky enough to be able to get an ARC copy of Broken Road which was an emotional ride that I would read over and over again. It tore my heart out from the first chapter but the further I read the more it was pieced back together. Ruby and Vander were amazing and their story was one of my favorite reads of 2021. The plot twist toward the end of the book was unforeseen and warmed my heart. The way Devin also incorporates mental illness - agoraphobia - is easy to read and doesn't whelm the story. Devin has down the art of incorporating it into the character's story without info-dumping and making it flow easily. This book is at the top of my list of favorite books of 2021 and I highly recommend it to anyone especially if you like contemporary romances!
December 13, 2021
Broken Road by Devin Sloane
🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛/🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛
This book deals with grief and mental health issues. If either of those subjects make you uncomfortable then this might not be the book for you. I, personally, found that this particular author handles these subjects with a great deal of care and reading this book made me feel a bit less alone. It also helped me understand my brother better.
Neither character is perfect and there is a great deal of misinterpretation of the other’s feelings, because of this I found myself flip-flopping between wanting to hug and shake Vander and Ruby. I also found that it’s impossible to not relate to some of the feelings and decisions made based on those feelings. And the way they assumed they knew the others thought process… boy was it eye opening! It was an excellent lesson in “things aren’t always what they seem.”
This isn’t just a love story, it’s a LIFE story! I loved every single word. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment of this series as this first book does an excellent job of setting things up and you can’t help but invest in the other characters!
🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛/🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛🐈⬛
This book deals with grief and mental health issues. If either of those subjects make you uncomfortable then this might not be the book for you. I, personally, found that this particular author handles these subjects with a great deal of care and reading this book made me feel a bit less alone. It also helped me understand my brother better.
Neither character is perfect and there is a great deal of misinterpretation of the other’s feelings, because of this I found myself flip-flopping between wanting to hug and shake Vander and Ruby. I also found that it’s impossible to not relate to some of the feelings and decisions made based on those feelings. And the way they assumed they knew the others thought process… boy was it eye opening! It was an excellent lesson in “things aren’t always what they seem.”
This isn’t just a love story, it’s a LIFE story! I loved every single word. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment of this series as this first book does an excellent job of setting things up and you can’t help but invest in the other characters!
December 15, 2021
I absolutely loved Vander and Ruby. Devin has done it again with these characters and their story line. The character development was exceptional, which is what I’ve come to expect from the authors writing. She paints such a vivid picture with her words, that every book I’ve read of hers is unputdownable.
I love that in every book there is a serious issue (medical) that is a focus of the story. In Broken Road, it’s agoraphobia and I was in awe. Devin does such a great job portraying the difficulties in her characters that it’s almost real. I think that��s the best part of her books, it’s so realistic and relatable. Nothing is perfect and it’s truly beautiful, especially in Vander and Ruby’s case. I was rooting for them from the first moment and Broken Road didn’t let me down.
I highly recommend all of Devin’s books. If you haven’t read them, and you love small town romance with spice and not your average cookie cutter romance this is definitely where to start!
December 16, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
First off, I have loved everything Ms. Sloane has written. Secondly, the truth and real life feel of this book (and her other ones) really makes you stop and consider how some people struggle with every day challenges. Ruby and Vander never seem to be at the right place in their lives at the right times, until now. Ruby, with a broken past but a warm family. She is strong, determined, but like most of us, she sometimes questions herself and her ability. Vander, Ruby's 1st love, is handsome, intelligent, and in the past never available for Ruby or so she thought. Life definitely handed them some curve balls and interesting twist along the way. Can they find happiness together this time? Or is something else going to stop them again?
A beautifully written second chance journey. You won't be sorry to read this one. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
First off, I have loved everything Ms. Sloane has written. Secondly, the truth and real life feel of this book (and her other ones) really makes you stop and consider how some people struggle with every day challenges. Ruby and Vander never seem to be at the right place in their lives at the right times, until now. Ruby, with a broken past but a warm family. She is strong, determined, but like most of us, she sometimes questions herself and her ability. Vander, Ruby's 1st love, is handsome, intelligent, and in the past never available for Ruby or so she thought. Life definitely handed them some curve balls and interesting twist along the way. Can they find happiness together this time? Or is something else going to stop them again?
A beautifully written second chance journey. You won't be sorry to read this one. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
December 13, 2021
Broken Road.....
What a heartbreaking but Beautiful story.
Devin gave us Ruby and Vander, A Young couple, university students very much in love with each other.
A family tragedy and obligation pulls Ruby Home and Vander can't stay.
Ruby let's vander go.
Much like others in Ruby's life he walks away.
He doesn’t want to go!
I love Devin’s writing. She incorporates real issues, this isn't the first book of Devin's that I've sat long after the last page and been speechless afterwards. It hits you right in the chest.
Ruby has agoraphobia and extreme anxiety. There were more then one occasions in this story I was overwhelmed with the need to hug her. I relate with Ruby. I felt her. I cried with her.
When Vander found her after 20 years I shouted for joy.
He is a different person now much like Ruby.
(I must say VANDER IS HOT) 🔥
This is a love story that spans over 20 years.
It's beautiful, it's tragic, and I hung onto EVERY.SINGLE.WORD.
It's a must read. I would absolutely recommend reading this book.
What a heartbreaking but Beautiful story.
Devin gave us Ruby and Vander, A Young couple, university students very much in love with each other.
A family tragedy and obligation pulls Ruby Home and Vander can't stay.
Ruby let's vander go.
Much like others in Ruby's life he walks away.
He doesn’t want to go!
I love Devin’s writing. She incorporates real issues, this isn't the first book of Devin's that I've sat long after the last page and been speechless afterwards. It hits you right in the chest.
Ruby has agoraphobia and extreme anxiety. There were more then one occasions in this story I was overwhelmed with the need to hug her. I relate with Ruby. I felt her. I cried with her.
When Vander found her after 20 years I shouted for joy.
He is a different person now much like Ruby.
(I must say VANDER IS HOT) 🔥
This is a love story that spans over 20 years.
It's beautiful, it's tragic, and I hung onto EVERY.SINGLE.WORD.
It's a must read. I would absolutely recommend reading this book.
December 15, 2021
Broken Road is a book full of emotion. Vander and Ruby had a love that spanned decades. Nothing and no one could find the love they had. They made decisions that ultimately kept them apart physically but their love stayed strong. Neither could really move on. Ruby was a dealing with emotional/mental health issues. The patience her family and finally Vander showered her with was a true test of love. The way the story is written, you can actually feel they angst Riby feels every time she starts to spiral. Her anxiety, fear and total discomfort are very real. Even her frustration and guilt with herself.
Vander was amazing. He made some mistakes and owned up to them. He was patient but also pushed her when necessary. He love for Ruby was all encompassing. He accepted her warts and all.
The story itself was emotional with plenty of twists. As usual, we get a story with real people, with real issues.
Can’t wait for more
Vander was amazing. He made some mistakes and owned up to them. He was patient but also pushed her when necessary. He love for Ruby was all encompassing. He accepted her warts and all.
The story itself was emotional with plenty of twists. As usual, we get a story with real people, with real issues.
Can’t wait for more
December 19, 2021
Amazing emotional story
As she did with her Bridgewater series, Devin crafted an incredible story with so much depth, emotion and passion. I love that she puts hard emotional and mental health stories and creates beautiful HEAs around them. This one was intense and illicit deep feelings. Her characters were crafted to perfection and her attention to detail and explanation made me feel as though I was experiencing everything they experienced in my own life. I loved every single part of this one.
As she did with her Bridgewater series, Devin crafted an incredible story with so much depth, emotion and passion. I love that she puts hard emotional and mental health stories and creates beautiful HEAs around them. This one was intense and illicit deep feelings. Her characters were crafted to perfection and her attention to detail and explanation made me feel as though I was experiencing everything they experienced in my own life. I loved every single part of this one.
December 13, 2021
Another phenomenal and beautifully written story by the very talented Devin. I am absolutely speechless and awe by how effortlessly she gets her readers hooked to the plot and get them totally invested in the story and characters. This was another unputdownable story with realistic plot and relatable characters. The story was captivating and heartfelt and at the same time heartbreaking. Ruby and Vander captured my heart and had me invested in their story. It was their journey of love and hope and not giving up fighting for what you truly believe in. It’s a story that spans over twenty years, starts with young love. The emotions was raw and real and having read all of Devin books she is the queen of pulling raw emotions and at the same time dealing with some uncomfortable subjects very tastefully. This is one of the best romances I’ve read. Would highly recommend this book.
December 9, 2021
Another fab read from Devin. I love that we are not too far from Bridgewater and still had that little crossover after hearing so much about Spuds from Willa's story.
So much happened over the first few chapters, recounting the history of Vander and Ruby that I wondered, when we got to present day, where can we go from here. I was quickly reassured.
I love all the Greek family parts, I'd love to be part of one! There was a handy guide at the start with translations of the endearments but usually you could understand enough with the context around it not to need remember the actual translations.
There was a lot of work around Ruby's agoraphobia which I thought was handled really well. It mentioned early on she also had ADHD and to be honest I didn't see the relevance of that nor anything in her behaviours to suggest it so it didn't seem integral to the story as the agoraphobia was.
The history of Ruby and Vander as these star-crossed lovers was heartbreaking, if only they had communicated which they realised themselves later on.
I'm excited to see where this series goes! Certainly a lot to explore with these new characters!
A great read.
So much happened over the first few chapters, recounting the history of Vander and Ruby that I wondered, when we got to present day, where can we go from here. I was quickly reassured.
I love all the Greek family parts, I'd love to be part of one! There was a handy guide at the start with translations of the endearments but usually you could understand enough with the context around it not to need remember the actual translations.
There was a lot of work around Ruby's agoraphobia which I thought was handled really well. It mentioned early on she also had ADHD and to be honest I didn't see the relevance of that nor anything in her behaviours to suggest it so it didn't seem integral to the story as the agoraphobia was.
The history of Ruby and Vander as these star-crossed lovers was heartbreaking, if only they had communicated which they realised themselves later on.
I'm excited to see where this series goes! Certainly a lot to explore with these new characters!
A great read.
December 13, 2021
Holy moly Devin's done it again.
Broken Road is the first book in a new series, bringing us a second chance trope.
Vander and Ruby were a university couple, due to devastating circumstances Ruby ends the relationship and goes home.
Twenty years later Vander's back and ready to fight for Ruby. Although it's more than physical.
Ruby is a great lead female, I loved reading her develop as the story went on, and the way Devin wrote about mental health was superb and hit close to home.
Vander complimented Ruby well (don't want to say too much as don't want to spoil)
This was a well written plot, emotional (I cried a lot!) Thoughtful and just damn beautiful.
If you like second chance romance this is for you.
Broken Road is the first book in a new series, bringing us a second chance trope.
Vander and Ruby were a university couple, due to devastating circumstances Ruby ends the relationship and goes home.
Twenty years later Vander's back and ready to fight for Ruby. Although it's more than physical.
Ruby is a great lead female, I loved reading her develop as the story went on, and the way Devin wrote about mental health was superb and hit close to home.
Vander complimented Ruby well (don't want to say too much as don't want to spoil)
This was a well written plot, emotional (I cried a lot!) Thoughtful and just damn beautiful.
If you like second chance romance this is for you.
December 9, 2021
Broken Road is another extremely well-written, highly emotional book from Devin Sloane. She writes damaged characters who love deeply and fiercely. Her heroes are some of the best I've ever read. They are highly sexual and compassionate. They never shy away from their feelings.
This second chance trope is about Ruby and Vander. They are kept apart by a condition that limits Ruby's life. The book details how she deals with her mental health issues and how it impacts her every day life. As the details of their past come together, so does the intensity of their love for each other and their love for their family.
Broken Road was a highly satisfying read that will break your heart and then make it glow with warmth. Fantastic!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
This second chance trope is about Ruby and Vander. They are kept apart by a condition that limits Ruby's life. The book details how she deals with her mental health issues and how it impacts her every day life. As the details of their past come together, so does the intensity of their love for each other and their love for their family.
Broken Road was a highly satisfying read that will break your heart and then make it glow with warmth. Fantastic!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
December 3, 2021
Broken Road by Devin Sloane
Emotional,beautiful and a grab your tissues five star read for me.
This story had my stomach in knots, ripped my heart out and put it back together.
Ruby and Vander’s story has been a true page turner from the start. They didn’t had it easy from the start and as two people who were so right for each other and the destiny and the suffering that Ruby had to deal with, was nothing but heart wrenching
Ruby made the hardest decision ever when she had to let go of Vander because of her own reasons. Being stuck at home and worrying of what if’s, working and not living a normal life. But then fate brings them back together with more than just two people who belong together.
I’ve never thought that agoraphobia can be so heard to deal with and Devin gave us with this story more of an understanding what that is. Seeing it through Ruby’s journey had woken something in me and I feel so deep for people that suffer from it.
This was another great story written by Devin and I can’t wait to see what’s next ❤️❤️❤️
Emotional,beautiful and a grab your tissues five star read for me.
This story had my stomach in knots, ripped my heart out and put it back together.
Ruby and Vander’s story has been a true page turner from the start. They didn’t had it easy from the start and as two people who were so right for each other and the destiny and the suffering that Ruby had to deal with, was nothing but heart wrenching
Ruby made the hardest decision ever when she had to let go of Vander because of her own reasons. Being stuck at home and worrying of what if’s, working and not living a normal life. But then fate brings them back together with more than just two people who belong together.
I’ve never thought that agoraphobia can be so heard to deal with and Devin gave us with this story more of an understanding what that is. Seeing it through Ruby’s journey had woken something in me and I feel so deep for people that suffer from it.
This was another great story written by Devin and I can’t wait to see what’s next ❤️❤️❤️
December 18, 2021
I started off hating this book bc of the first maybe 12 chapters. Another story where the h doesn’t move on and H does. no communication. Nope. h pines away half living while H moves on married divorced kid and call marriage a mistake bc H still loves h. No shit. 11 ish years late ONS leads to h having a baby. Fast forward OM and h grow apart and marries with child on way where his wife doesn’t know about h and his first kid🙄 Too late for me to abort reading mission. But the writing style got me. I actually liked h life without H once she had her son. Then she took H back after another 10 years. 3rd time the charm.
Plot twist turns out h son is actually H son. She got with H 2 weeks before the ONS but she got her period early (spotting or something ) so jus thought it was OM. I liked all the kids Jace, Alex and George. Curious about Amber, Gus and minty (Minnie).
Plot twist turns out h son is actually H son. She got with H 2 weeks before the ONS but she got her period early (spotting or something ) so jus thought it was OM. I liked all the kids Jace, Alex and George. Curious about Amber, Gus and minty (Minnie).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2022
Broken Road - Devin Sloane
::: SPOILER-FREE REVIEW :::
Rating: 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
So let me start this by saying this:
This lady can write, really write. Devins newest novel was utterly addictive. I honestly couldn’t put it down for one second. Maybe because of her effortless, wonderful storytelling, or maybe because of all the angst fest that blew me away more and more with each and every chapter. Who knows? But one thing is sure - I enjoyed the hell out of this book!
Broken Road was intoxicating, consuming and such an emotional roller-coaster. It’s a story that will make you think, but most important, it’s a story that will make you feel so much.
Ruby and Vander shared a young love, with hopes and dreams of a lifetime together. Then life happened and they went separate ways. 20 years later, Vander has returned to Milltown to make Ruby his. But a lot can change in 20 years...
Second-chance love stories are my favorite but one’s with a cool twist are just a bonus. This is the kind of book that makes you want to re-read it, or at least certain parts of it. There is just so much to the story that you can only fully appreciate after having gone through all the big reveals… and knowing them just gives so much *more* to the story, so it’s going on my re-read pile for sure.
I was feeling the emotion right from the start of the book. Few pages in and I already wanted to cry. Only Devin has that effect on me. Lol
Broken Road hits all the spots in a second chance romance. This is a beloved storyline in the romance genre and this book is the perfect example to showcase why that is. A stunning love story exists inside these pages, one that became so vivid that it was as if it was leaping off the pages. I was a voyeur into Vander & Ruby’s world for a few hours and I can say that it a place I’d love to visit again and again.
The story broke my heart in the most beautiful ways (if that was possible) without being mean or tragic or dramatic. It’s raw and natural and true, it hurts. Somebody, please gag me now before I spill the entire story.
This is just a beautiful story that I cannot recommend highly enough.
::: SPOILER-FREE REVIEW :::
Rating: 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
So let me start this by saying this:
This lady can write, really write. Devins newest novel was utterly addictive. I honestly couldn’t put it down for one second. Maybe because of her effortless, wonderful storytelling, or maybe because of all the angst fest that blew me away more and more with each and every chapter. Who knows? But one thing is sure - I enjoyed the hell out of this book!
Broken Road was intoxicating, consuming and such an emotional roller-coaster. It’s a story that will make you think, but most important, it’s a story that will make you feel so much.
Ruby and Vander shared a young love, with hopes and dreams of a lifetime together. Then life happened and they went separate ways. 20 years later, Vander has returned to Milltown to make Ruby his. But a lot can change in 20 years...
Second-chance love stories are my favorite but one’s with a cool twist are just a bonus. This is the kind of book that makes you want to re-read it, or at least certain parts of it. There is just so much to the story that you can only fully appreciate after having gone through all the big reveals… and knowing them just gives so much *more* to the story, so it’s going on my re-read pile for sure.
I was feeling the emotion right from the start of the book. Few pages in and I already wanted to cry. Only Devin has that effect on me. Lol
Broken Road hits all the spots in a second chance romance. This is a beloved storyline in the romance genre and this book is the perfect example to showcase why that is. A stunning love story exists inside these pages, one that became so vivid that it was as if it was leaping off the pages. I was a voyeur into Vander & Ruby’s world for a few hours and I can say that it a place I’d love to visit again and again.
The story broke my heart in the most beautiful ways (if that was possible) without being mean or tragic or dramatic. It’s raw and natural and true, it hurts. Somebody, please gag me now before I spill the entire story.
This is just a beautiful story that I cannot recommend highly enough.
March 28, 2022
One of the things I really enjoy about this author is the subject matter that she chooses to write about isn’t your typical romance fodder. The issues she covers are very intense and real. You feel every heartbreak and win from her characters.
The secondary characters are also usually pretty good at rounding out the main character that is suffering the affliction. They are usually a bit eccentric themselves, which I love.
For me this was a strong 3.5 stars. While all of the above applied for me in this book there were many things that made it a bit of a challenge for me to rate in higher in keeping with how I rate books.
For me if at 29% the two leads aren’t in an actual relationship, I find it becomes hard for me to see them as a couple. There is twenty years between before these too finally are a couple again and that’s a lot to slog through to get to a HEA.
The angst factor coupled with Ruby’s agoraphobia and ADHD for me drug on way too long. A lot of the angst could have been avoided with a 5-minute conversation. I don’t mind small amounts of angst but needless angst does nothing for me but drag out an already emotional read to where it starts to get boring and repetitive. The book could have lost about 100 pages and we would not have missed anything.
By tightening up the story it would have weeded out some of the extraneous repetitive occurrences and give the story a greater sense of urgency, tension and faster pacing. This author has a way of drawing you into the characters lives and you feel everything they feel. For those of you that have never experienced mental illness or don't know someone with a mental illness you get all of the nuances and the wide reaching effects that it has. I feel less is more (meaning less excess so we are left with the skill of her writing and not the excess of the words.)
Both Ruby and Vander are pretty down to earth people and family is the most important thing for both of them. I was rooting for them to get their HEA after all of the heart break and angst that they endured and for me the ending was a bit lack luster…at least they are finally together.
I received an ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
The secondary characters are also usually pretty good at rounding out the main character that is suffering the affliction. They are usually a bit eccentric themselves, which I love.
For me this was a strong 3.5 stars. While all of the above applied for me in this book there were many things that made it a bit of a challenge for me to rate in higher in keeping with how I rate books.
For me if at 29% the two leads aren’t in an actual relationship, I find it becomes hard for me to see them as a couple. There is twenty years between before these too finally are a couple again and that’s a lot to slog through to get to a HEA.
The angst factor coupled with Ruby’s agoraphobia and ADHD for me drug on way too long. A lot of the angst could have been avoided with a 5-minute conversation. I don’t mind small amounts of angst but needless angst does nothing for me but drag out an already emotional read to where it starts to get boring and repetitive. The book could have lost about 100 pages and we would not have missed anything.
By tightening up the story it would have weeded out some of the extraneous repetitive occurrences and give the story a greater sense of urgency, tension and faster pacing. This author has a way of drawing you into the characters lives and you feel everything they feel. For those of you that have never experienced mental illness or don't know someone with a mental illness you get all of the nuances and the wide reaching effects that it has. I feel less is more (meaning less excess so we are left with the skill of her writing and not the excess of the words.)
Both Ruby and Vander are pretty down to earth people and family is the most important thing for both of them. I was rooting for them to get their HEA after all of the heart break and angst that they endured and for me the ending was a bit lack luster…at least they are finally together.
I received an ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
April 10, 2022
This should probably be a little more serious of a review with the mental health issues addressed in this book but I'm going to keep on the lighter side.
This is probably my favorite Devin Sloane book so far. I don't know why that is but I just loved Vander and Ruby's story. My heart broke for them with all the obstacles/circumstances that prevented them from being together. Forget second chances this was like three times the charm and with many years in between. However they never got over each other and continued to love each other even when apart and when they thought the other had moved on. Which now that I'm writing it out is probably exactly why I loved it so much ...who doesn't want that feeling of an all encompassing love that's never ending. For them that love nearly destroyed them when having to endure being apart but once they were back together it was beautiful.
"We belong together. We’ve always belonged together.” "You’ve always been mine. Just like I’ve always been yours."
I loved their boys Jace and George, Yiayia (wish she was mine), and all the family and side characters were amazing...lots of great banter! I just loved how their whole family/friends dynamics worked ...where everyone picked up the slack when needed, pushed each other and/or stayed quiet at other times.
There are so many things I highlighted that I wanted to use for quotes then to realize I don't want to use them and spoil your reading pleasure.
If you've read a Devin book then you know what to expect...if not then you're going to need lots of tissues for the bad times and the good times as well!! Anyways, this is a great new series and I highly recommend it.
Ps. Vander is definitely book boyfriend material and absolutely has it going on in the bedroom ...so many steamy scenes!!
This is probably my favorite Devin Sloane book so far. I don't know why that is but I just loved Vander and Ruby's story. My heart broke for them with all the obstacles/circumstances that prevented them from being together. Forget second chances this was like three times the charm and with many years in between. However they never got over each other and continued to love each other even when apart and when they thought the other had moved on. Which now that I'm writing it out is probably exactly why I loved it so much ...who doesn't want that feeling of an all encompassing love that's never ending. For them that love nearly destroyed them when having to endure being apart but once they were back together it was beautiful.
"We belong together. We’ve always belonged together.” "You’ve always been mine. Just like I’ve always been yours."
I loved their boys Jace and George, Yiayia (wish she was mine), and all the family and side characters were amazing...lots of great banter! I just loved how their whole family/friends dynamics worked ...where everyone picked up the slack when needed, pushed each other and/or stayed quiet at other times.
There are so many things I highlighted that I wanted to use for quotes then to realize I don't want to use them and spoil your reading pleasure.
If you've read a Devin book then you know what to expect...if not then you're going to need lots of tissues for the bad times and the good times as well!! Anyways, this is a great new series and I highly recommend it.
Ps. Vander is definitely book boyfriend material and absolutely has it going on in the bedroom ...so many steamy scenes!!
September 8, 2022
Raw. Real. Deeply Emotional.
The kind of love you know...there could never be another. But.
One call ends it.
Did she not love me?
Would he only love me out of guilt?
Years happen...and then--one weekend.
Is a love that lasts all this...worth the risk. Absolutely!
- fiesty FMC with agoraphobia
- soft-centered, determined Greek man who has no problem standing up for her
Devin Sloane writes raw, real, and deeply emotional stories. I love how her characters know what they want and they're not afraid to get it! She pulls me in with each story of hers that I read. Broken Road - Milltown Book 1 was no different.
"Turn around. Please. He was too far away to hear me, but if he turned, he would witness the despair I could no longer hide. If he turned, I wouldn't be strong enough to let him go. If he turned, our parting would be delayed, and our love would sour."
Raw. Real. Deeply Emotional. Ruby and Vander fell in love in college but a family loss brings her home and circumstances end what has just begun. Love and sacrifice intertwine in this brilliant story of rare love and the struggles with mental illness. It is filled with ache and emotion, love and loyalty, heart-head conflicts that can feel paralyzing, and second chances. Ms. Sloane delivers an incredible, unforgettable read describing emotions that live deep down in our souls that are raw to the core.
A love that's worth risking it all for. Sometimes you just need a heart-wrenching story...guaranteed to make you cry.
Proceed with tissues.
#angelafordromancereview
The kind of love you know...there could never be another. But.
One call ends it.
Did she not love me?
Would he only love me out of guilt?
Years happen...and then--one weekend.
Is a love that lasts all this...worth the risk. Absolutely!
- fiesty FMC with agoraphobia
- soft-centered, determined Greek man who has no problem standing up for her
Devin Sloane writes raw, real, and deeply emotional stories. I love how her characters know what they want and they're not afraid to get it! She pulls me in with each story of hers that I read. Broken Road - Milltown Book 1 was no different.
"Turn around. Please. He was too far away to hear me, but if he turned, he would witness the despair I could no longer hide. If he turned, I wouldn't be strong enough to let him go. If he turned, our parting would be delayed, and our love would sour."
Raw. Real. Deeply Emotional. Ruby and Vander fell in love in college but a family loss brings her home and circumstances end what has just begun. Love and sacrifice intertwine in this brilliant story of rare love and the struggles with mental illness. It is filled with ache and emotion, love and loyalty, heart-head conflicts that can feel paralyzing, and second chances. Ms. Sloane delivers an incredible, unforgettable read describing emotions that live deep down in our souls that are raw to the core.
A love that's worth risking it all for. Sometimes you just need a heart-wrenching story...guaranteed to make you cry.
Proceed with tissues.
#angelafordromancereview
December 9, 2021
EPIC. That word kept coming to mind as I read this romance saga – a beautifully complicated journey of the heart that spans decades and yet, is centered on true love that defies time and space. Young lovers Ruby and Vander are madly in love before family responsibilities suddenly pull her away from his arms and in a different direction than where she expected life to take her. Realizing that they must let go, both Ruby and Vander try in vain to move on and make a life with someone new, only to be instinctively drawn together but then driven apart through the years. Their road to happily ever after is indeed a broken one, but holding onto this kind of once-in-a-lifetime, EPIC love definitely makes it worth taking.
Once again, author Devin Sloane does not simply write a story, she creates a vivid world in which her readers can completely immerse themselves. I particularly enjoyed this book’s generous helping of Greek cultural family values, as traditions and obligations shape Ruby’s character and the decisions which affect the trajectory of her life. The multi-generational dynamic really makes this story unique and colorful. I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for providing an honest review.
Once again, author Devin Sloane does not simply write a story, she creates a vivid world in which her readers can completely immerse themselves. I particularly enjoyed this book’s generous helping of Greek cultural family values, as traditions and obligations shape Ruby’s character and the decisions which affect the trajectory of her life. The multi-generational dynamic really makes this story unique and colorful. I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for providing an honest review.
December 15, 2021
Five stars just aren't enough! Devin Sloane is BRILLIANT!! I am absolutely in love with Broken Road!
It's captivating, breath-taking, tear-inducing, and
heart-rending. It also has quite a few tongue-in-cheek moments that will have you giggling.
The depth of emotion is so visceral. It will tear you apart and stitch you back together at a painstakingly slow speed. It's so worth it though.
It's detailed, but not in a way that has you losing interest. It's the complete opposite. It sucks you in and has you devouring page after page.
It's not just your main characters that make this such a fabulous story. The supporting characters are just as important. They're relatable and realistic and give so much more substance to the story. Yiayia cracks me up!! God love her!
I don't want to give anything away because this is a story that you simply have to read to fully appreciate and understand.
YES, YES, YES, I 100% recommend this book. You won't be disappointed. Just have your kleenex ready!
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
It's captivating, breath-taking, tear-inducing, and
heart-rending. It also has quite a few tongue-in-cheek moments that will have you giggling.
The depth of emotion is so visceral. It will tear you apart and stitch you back together at a painstakingly slow speed. It's so worth it though.
It's detailed, but not in a way that has you losing interest. It's the complete opposite. It sucks you in and has you devouring page after page.
It's not just your main characters that make this such a fabulous story. The supporting characters are just as important. They're relatable and realistic and give so much more substance to the story. Yiayia cracks me up!! God love her!
I don't want to give anything away because this is a story that you simply have to read to fully appreciate and understand.
YES, YES, YES, I 100% recommend this book. You won't be disappointed. Just have your kleenex ready!
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
December 24, 2021
So at 03:47am this morning I finished this book. Devin knows how to make you ugly cry! I was only 7% of the way through the book and I was a goner. Ruby’s character had her demons which dragged her under as a young woman when Vander left her not once but twice. Now he is back but this time he is here to stay. Can she overcome everything that has happened. Get passed that they both have children by other partners 🙄. The book is beautifully written and the use of the Greek language is a nod to their heritage and that of authors family. You find out about a Greek family, a Greek community which is like an extended family. Read along and see how Ruby gets on can Vander break down her walls, can he deal with her illness and live with it. Will they learn to deal with their lives making room for their ready made families and have their happy ending.
Beautifully written
Heartbreaking
Heartwarming
Family orientated
Funny bits
Beautifully written
Heartbreaking
Heartwarming
Family orientated
Funny bits
January 2, 2022
I don't know that I've ever read a romance that spans 20 years. I've definitely never read one as well written as Broken Road by Devin Sloane.
I loved Vander and his Ruby. My heart broke for them for the love and time they lost over the twenty years they were separated but it bloomed again when they got back together. Devin has a way of writing heroes who are a perfect mix of sensitive and strong. A book boyfriend you'll think about for days and weeks after. Vander is no different. He stole my heart. I understood his reasonings and his self-sacrifice. I felt heartbroken for him and his tragic struggles over the past twenty years. Honestly, I was bothered that Ruby didn't see it that way. I hated that he had to keep apologizing for his mistakes and reassuring Ruby of his love. But, I also didn't doubt how much she loved him either.
Truly another masterpiece from an author who writes mature and realistic stories that explore difficult topics like mental health.
I loved Vander and his Ruby. My heart broke for them for the love and time they lost over the twenty years they were separated but it bloomed again when they got back together. Devin has a way of writing heroes who are a perfect mix of sensitive and strong. A book boyfriend you'll think about for days and weeks after. Vander is no different. He stole my heart. I understood his reasonings and his self-sacrifice. I felt heartbroken for him and his tragic struggles over the past twenty years. Honestly, I was bothered that Ruby didn't see it that way. I hated that he had to keep apologizing for his mistakes and reassuring Ruby of his love. But, I also didn't doubt how much she loved him either.
Truly another masterpiece from an author who writes mature and realistic stories that explore difficult topics like mental health.
May 3, 2022
This new Devin Sloane book, Broken Road, is fantastic. It's emotional, funny, steamy. Ruby is very relatable. She's a hardworking single mom. She suffers from an anxiety disorder, specifically agoraphobia, and you watch her grow and thrive with it. Vander is her lifelong love but circumstances keep them apart. This book centers around their Greek culture and family devotion. It's heartwarming, real, brought me to good tears many times, and a book I will read again and again. The author, Devin Sloane, has the ability to bring characters to life and she has definitely made a good life for these characters. I loved it, plain and simple. It's a wonderful book with lovely characters and a heartfelt story. I can't wait to see what else Devin puts out because I know it'll be good. 5 stars and a must read!
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