Breaking Beautiful

Broken #2

by Amanda Bennett

In the final chapter of Gray and Bennett's story their love and faith in each other will be tested beyond the norm.

With some of their past behind them and a bright future to look forward to, life is on the mend for Gray and Bennett.
These two have always known what they have meant to each other, and are finally able to live their lives, together.
Is love enough when forces beyond your control try to take away the one thing you have always claimed to be yours?
Sometimes it takes the broken parts of you, for you to finally see what needs to be done to pull through the darkness.

This is the second book in the Broken Series. The first book is Beautifully Broken.

*contains sexual content and adult situations* 17+ recommended

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary Romance, College, Abuse, Young Adult, Second Chance

172 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 14, 2012

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Amanda currently lives in Utah with her husband and two boys. She is an die hard San Francisco 49ers fan. Her love and passion for writing started at a young age, and has only continued to grow over the years. She loves to connect with her readers, so feel free to reach out.

You can connect with her at the following links:
Website: www.authoramandabennett.com
FB Page: www.facebook.com/authoramandabennett
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authoramandabennett
Goodreads Page: www.goodreads.com/author/show/6550967...

I write contemporary romance, new adult romance, and erotica. "I am who I am because of the people I know and the things I've been through."

Reviews

[Sláinte Wanderlust · Rating 2 out of 5]

Let me try to explain this book..

Yeah, well i am stumped.. here are my feels about the book...







Should you read this book..

[Kylie · Rating 1 out of 5]

*Contains spoilers


Wow,all I can think is what the hell was that.

First there's Bennett,(love unusual female names) who's parents died when she was 16 and she has been raising herself for the past 2 years,without a guardian( it that even possible?)and shouldn't she have been more mature due to this,her angst and decision making read like a 14 yr old.

Then there's Gray,they have been best friend since becoming neighbours fifth grade,who is apparently Hot,a football player and all the girls want him but has only had 1 girlfiriend,loved Bennett for most of the time they've been friends and then kisses her other best friend Hannah because he's only ever kissed 2 other girls....hmm sounds like a keeper to me.

Ah yes Hannah,best friend kissing backstabber,well at least that's what the first couple of chapters tell you,I never got her she had no substance and I thought she was only there so that Bennett had someone else when her and Gray would make the most ridiculous decisions and end up not speaking.

And Raylon,a boy she runs into on the last day of school,then later at a college party where it turns out he's a senior,why was he at the high school? Who knows you never find out.

I liked the idea of this story but that's about it, there's not substance to it or the characters,it's told in the present with a bit of past tense thrown in so you know what the hell they're going about but you never understand why they do the things they do or make the decisions they make,I didn't like any of the 4 main characters but maybe that was because there was no development of them,and what should have been a great story sucked because there was no lead way into any of the things going on.This book way way to short,I'm the first to admit that long winded books drive me nuts but so does speed reading,I felt like I could have read it in bullet points and still got the same understanding of what it was about,so I've decided to give it a go..........SPOILERS AHEAD

-So the story pretty much goes like this,Bennett sees Gray and Hannah kissing runs to the bathroom has a melt down,Gray comes in they fight he storms out,she runs after him finds him in their treehouse they make out for a bit then go back to being best friends.....
-a few weeks later they have another fight avoid each other Bennett and Hannah go to a party where she meets Raylon again,Gray turns up at the party they fight he leaves then she leaves finds him in the treehouse again,this time they have sex and start a relationship..
-They have a great summer with of course a few of Bennett's angsty whats gonna happen moments throw in,then he leaves for the police academy,a few weeks past she finds out she's pregnant,isn't ready to be a mum,doesn't want to ruin grays life so decides to have an abortion,24 hrs after Having an Obyn appointment (you having a cooling off period when you order cable tv,should there not be more time/thinking involved when it comes to having an abortion) without telling Gray....after she's in heaps of pain,goes to find Hannah overhears her telling Gray about the pregnancy and abortion,chucks a hissy fit then collapses,Gray pretty much tells Hannah to let her die.....yep see I told you he was a keeper.
-Bennett wakes in the hospital to find Raylon in the doorway with flowers....creepy much.....he leaves she asks him to come back later,Bennett and Hannah cry.
-Then we skip to 4 yrs later,Bennett is now in a relationship with Raylon who abuse's her and she stays because she thinks she deserves it,see this is what happens when 16 yr olds are left to raise themselves,they go to a concert she catches Raylon getting it on with some other chick,they fight he walks away,comes back later that night bashes her on the street,she refuses to go to the hospital or press charges,her and Hannah cry again,then more weeks pass without Raylon turning back up
-But Gray does,he confesses to keeping tabs on her,he's a cop,knew what was going on with the abuse but waits a year to come around......*rolls eyes* keeper......they get back together,then his mum dies they fight again,he leaves,she finds him he's pretty much an a**hole to her,she tells him she deserves better then that (but didn't think so when Raylon was abusing her) they have the funeral,Gray stays away for a month rocks back up they have sex the next day he has to run home for a bit,Raylon comes around pushes his way in side,cuts her up and chokes her,she does a dying monologue of love for Gray .....
Epilogue
She wakes in the hospital with Gray there they declare their love for each other,he tells her she's pregnant with a girl and she has a swollen belly( how long was this chick out for) oh and Raylon is still on the loose.....

Yep rereading that gave me pretty much the same as reading the book,I would like to see the author pull this book and rewrite it,without skipping over the parts that make the characters who they are and the story, a story.

[Natalie · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was NOT good. I mean ok, it had drama, and angst but not really. It was so surface level that you never really got to know how the characters really felt about anything!

Also, I HATED the main characters fights. Seriously, they would be so in love one second and then the next, they are talking/shouting about how much they hate each other. WAY to hot and cold for me... and again, not in a building of sexual tension kind of way. Just in a "wow, this seems like a super immature, destructive relationship."

The writing was NOT good. Very childish and simple... and not in a good way. I feel bad being this harsh--because well I've never written a book so... what do I know. So all I can say is that I did not enjoy this book, and I wish there had been more depth.

It seemed Bennett went through a lot in her short life but you would only hear about it in passing... like an example is when she finally gets back with Grey but doesn't want him to know about the abuse she suffered with Raynol (or whatever his name is...). We as the reader had seen a little glimpse into this situation but then out of no where she tells her friend Hannah "how could he love someone (speaking about Grey) that stayed in a relationship with someone who raped and abused them!" uuummmm excuse me WHAT!? Since WHEN was he raping you too?! Then after that the author mentions it a couple more times...but it was still out of the blue. The same goes with her parents being dead... and just about every other bad thing that happens to her.

I guess this book just felt like a undeveloped idea... more of an outline then the actual book. The author has great ideas and situations but she needs to dig into more. There was very little plot you just kind of went from one horrible situation to the next. No explanation, very childish views on the feeling and emotions that went along with it. Give us more adult dialog. Not have the characters be so love/hate. Because when they hate each other, they say HORRIBLE things that most couples cannot just bounce back from.

Anyways, I don't usually write reviews, let alone reviews that are this harsh, but after reading this book I literally was like "wait...what?!" haha. So in all, no, don't read it.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book. The title, the cover, the heartbreak - but the story was all over the place!!!! I was so frustrated !! When I read the epilogue I was saying.... " what the ????? ". The bones of this story was good ~ next door neighbors boy girl best friends to lovers ~ but I'm at a loss for words except " what the ?????"

I think it's best to give this three stars and call it a day.

[Tamsyn Bester · Rating 5 out of 5]

**SPEECHLESS** I have literally just put this book down... But WOW, what a story!! I feel an overwhelming need to cry like a real girl, more so out of relief than anything else! I don't think I'd get through book 2 alive...

I love Gray & Bennett, but can't help but feel sorry for the road this poor girl has been on. And as for Gray, WHAT A MAN!! After everything they've been through, he still comes back to find her, the one girl he will never stop loving!!

This is a sincere, heartfelt plea to the author : NO MORE DEATHS PLEASE!!!!!!!! Unless its Raylon's!!!! PLEASE!!

Ok enough ranting!! I need some tissues.... I pray that book 2 comes with a happy ending that includes Gray, Bennett, their kiddies, Hannah & Theo ALIVE!!!

<3

Merged review:

“Our love wasn’t made of fairytales that’s for sure, but damn if it didn’t feel like it to me. She has always been my reason for breathing. Even now, I would lay my life on the line for her. Her love did something to me, something indescribable and unbelievable but it happened and I wouldn’t take it back for anything.”- Gray

Every once in a while, a story comes along that haunts you & sears itself into your memory long after the final page has been turned. Gray & Bennetts story is that for me.

Amanda has done a brilliant job of continuing the story, showing how the characters are changed by the events leading up to Bennett’s near death encounter. Each character has matured and the carefully knitted ties that bind them are fragile, exposing the vulnerability of the connections between Gray & Bennett.

What I loved most is the “manning up” that Gray does during the beginning, while Bennett is in recovery. His need to protect Bennett & their unborn baby is so compelling & is strong throughout the story.

“I couldn’t help but notice how beautiful she looked. Bruises, cuts and all, she was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. I wanted so badly for all of this to work out. I was desperate for it.” – Gray

This is a story where you’ll want to root for this young couple who have faced everything imaginable and have still come out of it together, and stronger for it. As Amanda said herself, “I do believe in happy endings. I also believe that it takes a bit of bad experiences and rough roads to get you there, but in the end I strongly believe it is worth it.”

This is one happy ending that will having you screaming & crying for all the right reasons :)
++5 stars :)
Your #1 Fan ;)

“I needed Gray, more than I needed to breathe at this very moment. I needed to feel safe, and God knows he was the only one who could do it.” – Bennett
My favourite moment in the book: “When the sound of the fetal monitor hit my ears, I was suddenly overwhelmed with joy. Both my girlfriend and our little bump were doing great. I slid my hand from between hers and gently slid the blanket down enough to see her non-existent belly. My hand slowly glided her smooth delectable skin. When my lips made contact with her belly, my heart soared. There was a tiny piece of me growing inside of her, and it was very much alive. I peppered kisses all over her small abdomen before pulling the sheet back up.” - Gray

[Tracy · Rating 1 out of 5]

WASTE OF TIME
AWFUL

This book confused the hell outta me. I will note those parts in my spoiler area

The characters ...quite frankly they where too much. The only one I actually LIKED was Theo an he was so subpar he wasn't enough to redeem the book

Bennet (very cool name for her) is she strong? Weak? Scared?..never really got a feel for her. I was so SICK of her I freaking stopped rooting for her. I actually could of cared less!

Grey (loved the name) he's bi polar. Love you,,,,hate you,,,love you...DUDE MAKE UP YOUR MIND!! Get counseling you really need it

Hannah- beginning of the book she's a liar an backstabbing bitch....the end a protector an bestest friend ever,,,,quite frankly though I NEVER liked her ..she blew right off the bat. No redeeming your ass from that

Raylon (another great name). Mr inigma. So sexy..yah no not really.




WTF

Hannah making out with Grey??? Why..didn't make sense in the story. Also made it sound like Grey was virginal since he said he only kissed Bennett...yet later his girlfriend Jo something treated Bennett like shit??
Again confusing

Why was Raylon there the LAST day of school?
Then at Raylons party he says he is graduating early?
Bennett got pregnant the night of Raylons party by Grey.
She aborts it at 7 weeks an suffers from hemmirsging....Raylon shows up at the hospital as a medic??

HUH

The ending...how the hell does Bennett have a bump an know she is having a girl??.
Was she in a coma for months??.

So confused...
Hannah so NOT a best friend calling Grey to tell him about the abortion

[Amanda Fiore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw all the negative reviews on this book and almost didn't read it. I'm glad I chose to see for myself what it was all about because I really enjoyed this book. First love falls apart because two loves cannot come together and see things as a 'unit'. Rather, each individual thinking they are putting what they think the other wants in front of their own needs. I can say I agree, she is a little bit of a headcase who throws tantrums and gets out of hand but Gray loves that about her, has ever since 5th grade. A couple couldn't be more fitting of one another but a rash and selfish decision changes all of that while she feels that the abuse and torment she receives years after is her punishment and she deserves all that has come to her since she broke Gray's heart. Rocky mountains they must climb to find one another again but at the end I think they're gonna be alright. I love the turmoil and devastation, that's what makes a book good and this one hit the mark.

[Abby McCarthy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I liked the story between Bennett and Gray. I was surprised by the brutality which Bennett endured. When I finished I immediately picked up the next book, curious to see what happened.

Merged review:

Okay I liked this book but there were to many flaws that just had me distracted. First the time frame between books one and two was messed up. In book one Christmas and New Years just passed but in book 2 it was like the attack happened before Christmas. Then she gets out right before Christmas and does not want to go back to her old house. A week later New years, she has her best friend, Hannah pick her up and bring her to her house but she talks about their house like its somewhere new. Are you telling me that in a week, Hannah was able to help plot with Gray and get a new house??? It said Gray cried for the second time in his life two dif times and it was actually the fourth time I read how he cried in the two books. Other things that didn't add up, they live in a gated place, how is Raylon coming and going? Lastly I was done with this at 80% and could not figure out why the next 20% of the book was even happening.

I think good beta readers really could have helped make this less of a mess. Or perhaps just doing a reread back to back. There was a story to be told I am just disappointed that all of the errors distracted me so. Unfortunately this started to feel like it was a quickly thrown together sequel that had no right being released when it was.

[Shannon Morrell-card · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the first one and was looking forward to the continuation of the story. The potential was there however there were many typos and there were many situations that were not fully developed but were finished in half a page. I needed less of the I love you's and more development of many scenes. I do plan on reading more by ms.bennett but hope this is some constructive criticism.

[D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully Broken by Amanda Bennett was absolutely beautifully delivered. She took something darkly acute and treated it with affirmation and grace.
The story is told through Bennett's (the main character) heart. There is such an irony or paradox to her strength and resolve towards how her life should be. There were times you felt so broken along side her and other times you just wanted to smack her for being so self-condemning. Although, the situations Bennett finds herself in are intense, dire and severe, she suffers more from her internal battle that is present all along.
Beautifully Broken really elicited so many emotions. There were times it was difficult to read. not because the writing was lacking but because it was so full, it was sharp and cutting.
There were a few times in the story, I wished a particular situation had been developed upon more than it was. It didn't necessarily take away from the story, I just think it might have given more insight into the thoughts of the characters -- especially with the supporting characters. At times they were on the outside looking in almost. That being said, given the subject matter, I could see how they actually would be in the very position of being on the outside and being rendered helpless. Their presence was strong enough though, that they were able to bear some of the much needed weight of the story.
I liked that for this particular story, author Amanda Bennett was not vague with her intentions. It needed to be in- your-face writing. However, she was not so blunt that it took away from the heart and soul of the two main characters. There was always room for understanding and realization of the feelings and emotions of the characters. Which in turn allowed the reader to feel the story. Feel it in every word. Feel it in every action.
This was definitely well written and well thought out. Although a tough story to embrace, it is well worth the time and the heart to read Beautifully Broken.

*strong subject matter, might not be suitable for all readers*

Merged review:

In this follow up to Beautifully Broken by Amanda Bennett, the story picks up from where the other left off. This is the heart warming yet heart- wrenching story of Gray and Bennett. They had already endured so much in Beautifully Broken. I wasn’t sure how much more they could take on their relationship and themselves.
I want to mention first thing that in Breaking Beautiful Amanda took more time in capturing this story. I felt so much more invested this time around. Like I could really get a sense of the feelings that Gray and Bennett held for each other. I enjoyed how their relationship evolved and matured. Maybe, this was because it was book two and I knew the characters. Whatever the case, the story’s flow was more fluid. The gaps were smaller. There were still instances where we had to assume a consequence or event occurred within the story. It did not necessarily take away or dilute the story. You just had to come to your own conclusions about some minor things. This book wasn’t as intense as the first but it was more heart warming. Raylon still had a presence but not as fervently.
This time around, Amanda Bennett added a lot more ‘hot’ factor to the story as well. Gray and Bennett definitely explored each other a lot this time around. Of course, their relationship was more defined in Breaking Beautiful than it was in Beautifully Broken. I definitely see this author turning up the heat in her future writings.
I also found that this time around, Hannah and Theo, the couple’s best friends had more of a presence and you see something deeper developing between them. They certainly have a story to tell. Hannah and Theo were also much more concrete in their support for Bennett. They were more inclined to stand up for her directly, rather than in the background waiting for Bennett to be hurt physically or emotionally.
Breaking Beautiful brought the sun to my heart.
Amanda Bennett is still relatively new to the literary world. With each book she has written, I see growth and maturity. Her style of writing is evolving and for the better. Her characters and stories have energy and life to them. I look forward to reading more from her. I am most excited to read book #3 in the Broken series, titled Hearts Un-broken. It is set to release May 2013. Also, be on the lookout for her new book Misguided Heart. Coming to us March 1, 2013. It’s gonna be a hot one!

[Ena May - Swoon Worthy Books/Enticing Journey Book Promotions · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Darkness swept through my vision as my short lived life passed before my eyes. His face was the last thing I saw before I succumbed to my destiny. It’s funny how life can change its direction in the blink of an eye. What had once brought me strength has now made me weak and it was no one’s fault but my own. I did this and unfortunately he would now be the one to suffer for it. I could feel my heart breaking into a million pieces all over again and the feeling made me want to die.”

Best friends Gray and Bennett finally realized their feelings for each other were real and would fight anything for their love. Time and situations have pushed them apart and sent them in different directions. Now 5 years later their lives cross paths once again and it’s up to Gray to save Bennett from her life. Can Bennett give her heart to Gray again after all this time and can Gray save this beautifully broken girl and show her the love he still holds for her in his heart.

This was my first book I have read of Amanda Bennett’s and it was truly beautiful. I fell in love with Bennett and Gray and their story from the beginning, I was routing for them to have their happily ever after that they so desperately deserved. When things fell apart and Gray left Bennett my heart broke for her. She is such a strong character; she dusted herself off and moved forward with her life. New romances came into the picture and she thought she was finally going to get her happily ever after but the man who promised to love her was breaking her heart and spirit 1 piece at a time.

I was very happy to see Gray come back into Bennett life like a knight and shining armor and try to rescue his beautifully broken girl from her life and put her back together again. He is strong and determined and will stop at nothing until Bennett his whole again. He would gladly give his own life to know that his true love, Bennett, is safe and happy and he will stop at nothing until he mends her heart.

Amanda Bennett wrote a beautiful love story that spanned the course of over 5 years - once young loves they quickly grew up and life got in the way of their love and torn them apart. I loved how she portrayed their feelings for one another even when they were apart. It was truly their destiny to be together in the end. Things that happened to Bennett were a little hard for me to read but he just proved to show how strong of a young woman she was and she was going to go down with a fight and I admire her for that. I can't wait to finish their journey in Breaking Beautiful (Broken Series #2)


Merged review:

So let me start off by saying that I absolutely loved Beautifully Broken, I was pulled in from the very start and felt all the emotions that Bennett went through with loosing the love of her life, Gray, and starting over with Raylon and everything he put her through. Then her knight and shining armor came back into the picture and their love grew and I fell in love with their love. I thought Breaking Beautiful was a great conclusion to their love story. They fought tooth and nail to have their happily ever after and I was happy to know that after everything they went through to be together they got it. Gray swept me off my feet so many times in this book and I fell in love with him all over again. I love when he calls her "button", it makes me smile. Reading this book you can really feel the love he has for Bennett and that he would do anything and risk anything just to make her happy. Great love story that will last a lifetime. Another amazing book by Amanda Bennett. Can't wait to find out what Book #3 is going to be able, hoping to see more Hannah and Theo.

[Swoon Worthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Darkness swept through my vision as my short lived life passed before my eyes. His face was the last thing I saw before I succumbed to my destiny. It’s funny how life can change its direction in the blink of an eye. What had once brought me strength has now made me weak and it was no one’s fault but my own. I did this and unfortunately he would now be the one to suffer for it. I could feel my heart breaking into a million pieces all over again and the feeling made me want to die.”

Best friends Gray and Bennett finally realized their feelings for each other were real and would fight anything for their love. Time and situations have pushed them apart and sent them in different directions. Now 5 years later their lives cross paths once again and it’s up to Gray to save Bennett from her life. Can Bennett give her heart to Gray again after all this time and can Gray save this beautifully broken girl and show her the love he still holds for her in his heart.

This was my first book I have read of Amanda Bennett’s and it was truly beautiful. I fell in love with Bennett and Gray and their story from the beginning, I was routing for them to have their happily ever after that they so desperately deserved. When things fell apart and Gray left Bennett my heart broke for her. She is such a strong character; she dusted herself off and moved forward with her life. New romances came into the picture and she thought she was finally going to get her happily ever after but the man who promised to love her was breaking her heart and spirit 1 piece at a time.

I was very happy to see Gray come back into Bennett live like a knight and shining armor and try to rescue his beautifully broken girl from her life and put her back together again. He is strong and determined and will stop at nothing until Bennett his whole again. He would gladly give his own life to know that his true love, Bennett, is safe and happy and he will stop at nothing until he mends her heart.

Amanda Bennett wrote a beautiful love story that spanned the course of over 5 years - once young loves they quickly grew up and life got in the way of their love and torn them apart. I loved how she portrayed their feelings for one another even when they were apart. It was truly their destiny to be together in the end. Things that happened to Bennett were a little hard for me to read but he just proved to show how strong of a young woman she was and she was going to go down with a fight and I admire her for that. I can't wait to finish their journey in Breaking Beautiful (Broken Series #2)


Merged review:

So let me start off by saying that I absolutely loved Beautifully Broken, I was pulled in from the very start and felt all the emotions that Bennett went through with loosing the love of her life, Gray, and starting over with Raylon and everything he put her through. Then her knight and shining armor came back into the picture and their love grew and I fell in love with their love. I thought Breaking Beautiful was a great conclusion to their love story. They fought tooth and nail to have their happily ever after and I was happy to know that after everything they went through to be together they got it. Gray swept me off my feet so many times in this book and I fell in love with him all over again. I love when he calls her "button", it makes me smile. Reading this book you can really feel the love he has for Bennett and that he would do anything and risk anything just to make her happy. Great love story that will last a lifetime. Another amazing book by Amanda Bennett. Can't wait to find out what Book #3 is going to be able, hoping to see more Hannah and Theo

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Here's to the one's we love, the ones we lost, and all the assholes in between"-Bennett

A tragically beautiful story of the relationship between Bennett and Gray.

Not everyone can say they met their soul mate at an early age, but Bennett and Gray can. A fateful meeting after Bennett and her family moved made Gray and Bennett inseparable. Although they appear to be just best friends on the surface, they know that there is so much more going on inside of themselves. After Bennett finds her best friend Hannah making out with Gray she is enraged and nearly ruins her friendship with Gray. After fixing it she can still not control her anger about it being hidden behind her back and she lashes out at Hannah. Eventually everything goes back to normal with a few mishaps here and there between the friends; until Bennett and Gray take it one step further. Living out the last few weeks they have together they officially start dating. Bennett ends up pregnant and refuses to tell Gray because she doesn't want to crush his dreams of being a cop. Taking care of the unplanned and unwanted pregnancy she loses Gray for what she thinks is forever. Bennett's life goes downhill as she spirals into a very deep depression in which Hannah is there to help her out of. Four years later Gray comes back into the picture after Bennett assumes she is out of an abusive relationship. Gray and Bennett still suffer their ups and downs, especially after Gray's mother dies. Bennett's ex continues to come into the picture until he nearly ends Bennett's life. Never fear though because Bennett and Gray get their happy ending....or do they?

Off to read book to to see what happens next in the ever exciting relationship of Gray and Bennett.

Merged review:

A great continuation from "Beautifully Broken".

Bennett and Gray's life has settled down and she finally gets out of the hospital. Her ex has come around only once sending Gray into action to protect Bennett and their now unborn child. Several surprises lay in store for Bennett once she's out of the hospital. Each one grander than the last. Just as they settle into their new life, Bennett's ex comes back with a vengeance. Bennett and her unborn child's life is put in danger as he tries to make sure that either he gets her or no one gets her. Gray and his partner find her after she is kidnapped by her ex. Bennett watches as Gray and his partner Jason beat her ex before taking him into a room where she can't see what is being done, after trying to get Gray to open the door she hears a gunshot. With the sickening realization that Gray probably just killed him she runs. The next day she comes home and hears the whole story, her only thought is that Gray really is the man that she believed him to be. After rebuilding their house everything falls back as it should and Bennett ends up pregnant again, this time with a boy. Finally their life is perfect.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is so different from the 'Raine' series that Amanda wrote, I mean there was a lot of a** kicking that I wanted to do in this book vs. the non-a** kicking I wanted to do in the 'Raine' series lol. Bennett she's a vocal person if something is wrong she'll let you know, she's mad you'll get an earful, "how could you keep something like this from me? I thought we told each other everything; apparently I'm the only one who stays true to that. Well, you want the truth? You are a horrible best friend." Gray you know he has issues of his own and well he just needed a good a** kicking from time to time, "I know Bennett. I wasn't asking for anything from you. I never have." Did I mention the temper Bennett has on her? "You straight lied to me more than once. Not once did you think to yourself, maybe I should tell Bennett. Not once. You and Gray are beyond selfish. You were only concerned with yourself and how he made YOU feel. Well, I deserve a better friend than you. I would have never done this to you, EVER! No get out of MY house." Gray has a temper to so it's not all Bennett that's doing the yelling, "why do you have to make things so damn difficult woman? You're absolutely right. I AM trying to make this easier on ME. It's effing killing me to have to leave you. You are delusional if you think that I'm doing okay with all of this." Gray is also a protective sort, "get the eff out of here and stay the eff away from her. I will kill you if I ever see you again. Do you understand me?" I enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.


Merged review:

Gray is still the ever protective one since we last saw him the boy has more to lost than just Bennett this time around, "how the hell did that mother effer get in here?" He's the protector, savior and the love of her life and Bennett I think really does cherish that especially after everything those two have been through and are going through, "don't worry, Button, we will find him, if it's the last thing I do. If I have to I will find him myself." Their relationship is still going on strong, "his erection dung into my hip and I smiled wide. "Okay, so maybe you can." I blushed." (If you get my meaning.) And certain situations make Gray and idiot and he tends to forget a few things but luckily for him Bennett is there to sort him out, "Gray, I'm pretty sure if we went into the hospital like this they would send us home. We are both stark naked, minus my lacy underwear." I liked the first book more in this series as there was more emotional things going on but I still liked reading this book.

[Crissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully Broken is the story of Bennett and Gray. Bennett and Gray have been best friends since childhood. They have been there for each other through everything. They decided to give love a try and their love will be tested in a ways neither of them seen coming. Bennett decided to keep a secret from Gray thinking what she was doing was best but turned out to be one of the worst mistakes ever. Gray unable to forgive Bennett for her betrayal decides to move on with his life without her. But is it easy to walk away from the person you thought of as your soul mate? Bennett is in a relationship with Raylon, a relationship that puts her life in danger every day. Gray shows up ready to reclaim what he has lost but Raylon isn’t willing to let Bennett go. Will Gray be able to say Bennett before it’s too late?
Beautifully Broken has become one of my favorites. You will fall in love with Bennett and Gray. Everything about this story was amazing, the characters, chemistry and the story line. It will definitely leave you wanting more. I read the book in a day and started with book two soon after. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a good love story filled with romance, drama and suspense. I recommend this book to readers 18+ due to sexual situations described in the book.


Merged review:

“Breaking Beautiful” was just as amazing as “Beautifully Broken.” It picks up right where the first book left off. Bennett is left fighting for her life after Raylon brutally attacked her. Raylon is missing and Gray is trying to stay for Bennett both emotionally and physically. If she survives can they really move on knowing Raylon is still waiting for the moment to end Bennett’s life? More secrets are discovered in this book as Gray discovers the motivation behind Raylons attacks. Will they be able to find Raylon before he gets the chance to finish what he started?
You will definitely love this book as much as the first, if not more. Gray is definitely the hero in this book in more ways than one. I don’t want say any spoilers but all I can say is if you haven’t read this series you really need to start. This is the first series that I have read from Author Amanda Bennett and I am so looking forward to future books. She has definitely blown me away with this series. Definitely worth reading and sharing!

[Amy K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully Broken describes the main character, Bennett, perfectly. She has suffered through the loss of her parents at a young age. She lives on her own, next door to her best friend Gray who comforts her, and takes care of her many nights, so that she doesn't feel alone or scared. As it sometimes happens with best friends, they explore deeper feelings than friendship for one another. This story creates a roller coaster of emotions. One moment you will be happy and excited for Bennett, then all of a sudden you are angry with her and want to talk some sense into the poor girl, and of course there are the times when you are crying and just want to give her a hug. There were moments that I had to put the book down just to recover emotionally and dry my eyes so that I could read further. There are aspects of the story that felt very real for me, almost as if they were written about someone close to me. There is adult language in this, and there is sexual content. It is not erotica in nature, but it is slightly descriptive. This was an amazing read and I would and will recommend it to my friends. I look forward to reading more by this author. It does say there is a book 2 and I am looking forward to reading it!

Merged review:

I finished this book in less than a day which is amazing for me with work, etc. I just could not put it down because I needed to know what would happen with Gray and Bennett! I love Amanda Bennett's writing style. She keeps the story moving at a quick pace. Things are always happening and it makes it difficult to put the book down for any length of time! The conversations between the characters sound like many I have had with my own friends with the cursing and innuendos, etc. The intimate scenes in this book were HOT, to say the least, steamy and romantic! Gray is every woman's dream guy. I love Bennett's relationship with Hannah and Theo, friends that are as close as siblings. This was the perfect way to wrap things up with Gray and Bennett, although I must say I would LOVE to read more about them! I look forward to reading more books by this author!

[Jennie Merz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this book so fast, because I couldn't bare to put it down. It pulled at the heart strings and had me thinking about Bennett and Grey for days after. The way their relationship is described is nothing short of true, soul mate love. That's just what they are. They find a way to one another and fight, because sometimes, that's what has to happen. I cried for these characters. It was so heartbreakingly real. Can't tell you how glad I am to have discovered this book. It just hit a nerve and now holds a special little part of me that hopes there is someone like this out there for all who need it. Someone willing to fight for you and your heart. Thank you for this book.

Merged review:

After finishing the first book I was so sad to see that it may not be out until May of this year, so I didn't even look! Wow, so happy I just happen to type it into my, to-read list of goodreads! Boom! There it is! Was obsessed it finishing Grey and Bennett's story. I was sad it was shorter than I expected, but that's only because I loved it and greedily wanted more. I love that they finally found and got the happiness they deserved. I love these characters! I was disappointed to not know what happens to Hannah and Theo, I feel like I would have liked more details....but that is my ONLY complaint. Great ending to a wonderful, intense, frightening, heartbreaking at times, lovely story.

[Lanyahm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ughhh I'm so frustrated now that I finished this book. I can't say I didn't like it because I was so excited and anticipated that I couldn't stop reading it. It was a good book. Some editing errors though. It was good overall I give it a 3.5 out of 5.
I was so emotional throughout reading. Really felt sad for Bennett and Gray. They were just too torn, too broken, and they were perfect for each other regardless of what they did. They were sweet to the extreme. The trouble they faced broke my heart along with theirs.
Bennett faced a lot of horrible things. Gray has been her bestfriend and stood with her all the way. They always had feelings for each other and they decide to give it a chance and see how it turns out. They were lovely. And i really liked them.
Now some of the things i didn't like. Bennett and her over-bearing insecurity bothered me a little. I mean yes you're not the most perfect person in the world, but nobody is. So there's no need to punish yourself over it. Another thing was the excessive drama. At first they were teenagers. So it is expected from them to be dramatic over everything. But later really there was no need and they should have been A bit more mature, it would've made things a lot better.
In the end i liked the book. It's a good book to read when you're feeling emotional, you will be sad and you will be happy. And you will enjoy.

[Suzuk1girl · Rating 1 out of 5]

Wow, terrible book indeed.

Couldn't get past the first 5 chapters and I'd say it was luck I'd last that long.

First off... wtf.. *head scratch*

This book is really confusing and up and down. Sometimes it makes sense most times not. And of course everything is written step by step. She does this and this happens, he does this and that happens. It's like come on put a little mystery in it. Throw in a curve ball or something.

Bennett and Gray are suppose to be best friends but in the beginning she gets all mad cause hes making out with her other friend. Which she forgives him for so easily. Not only after she forgave him they end up making out (which is gross BTW. She is basically making out with her other friend too) then shes mad at him again.

They go to a party she gets drunk and blah blah blah. If it were a real copy of the book I would have tossed it as firewood.

Bennett is forever mad at Gray and Gray is forever hanging out with other girls.

The book is plain, boring and lame. I wouldn't even think teenagers would enjoy this. Waste of time and money.

[Mechelle Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in the Broken series, if you haven't read Beautifully Broken you need to read it first.

This book will pull you in after just the first few pages. Never have I read a book that you don't have to be at least 10 to 15% into the book before you become wrapped up in the story. It's a wild ride right from the beginning. Bennett is a fighter and her strength completely amazes me. Gray is the perfect man. He is so understanding and gives Bennett exactly what she needs. He loves her and shows her that over and over. Her scars and the things she has been through do not scare him away, he just loves her more. They have overcome so much and still go through more than anyone should have to in this story. It's heart breaking and up lifting. If you love a love story with excitement and one that shows love and family is all that matters; then you will not want to miss reading this series.

Amanda Bennett takes you right there and you feel these characters pain and their love for each other as if you are living it yourself. Well done Amanda Bennett

[P.A. Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this story is definitely a page turner.It sucks you in like a tornado.This is the story of Bennett and Gray's love,mistakes and finding love all over again.I loved Bennett and Gray.Its amazing I think how so much could have been solved with a bit on communication on both their parts.I really do not like to give spoilers out.But I will say this the ending had me in tears.I think my only issue with the book is sometimes certain parts of the books jumped from one thing to another quickly so I had to re-read to make sure I got it correctly.Also the epilogue I feel was a bit confusing as I would have liked to know the time frame of how long Bennett was in the hospital as the one thing (Which I LOVED)wouldn't make sense with how far along it was.But other then that I loved them book. Im very glad to hear that there will be another book in this series,Im eager to see what happens next to Gray and Bennett..if indeed the book will be about them.Job Well Done Amanda Bennett!

[Vee · Rating 1 out of 5]

Beautifully broken could have been so much more. The story sounded great and definitely seemed like my type of book. Unfortunately I found the story flat and the characters even flatter. The story felt underdeveloped and choppy. There were moments when I felt like I had no clue what was happening. It would jump from one scene to another leaving me trying to determine how much time went by and how I got there. There was also a lot of telling not showing. It didn't help that the pacing was much too fast and things were glossed over. For example, Raylon's abusive behaviour, how Bennett could live on here own, the impacts of parental death or deaths for that matter. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for angst and plenty of drama. I even love a good cry but when you don't give a damn about the characters then it's pretty pointless.

[April Poole · Rating 2 out of 5]

I got this book on my Kindle with high expectations, which fell short. This book was all over the place. At times I couldn't tell if I was in the present or the past. The story jumped from days to months to years with no in between. It was confusing. The characters were strangely placed in the story as well. Theo came out of nowhere while Raylon just magically appears in the high school (when he was at least 24) then appears again in college, and no one ever asks why he was in the school. Then appears again in the hospital as what? A nurse? A doctor? Oh but wait, he appears again in Greece!! C'mon?! Then he's an alcoholic woman beater?! Gray seems to pop up in all the right moments. This book had potential to be a good story, but lacked so much information. I won't be reading book 2 when it comes out, I'm sure.

[Anne OK · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars



Merged review:

The conclusion of Bennett and Gray's story was full of more angst and tragedy. The storyline, however, still lacked in depth and quality. It seemed rushed and to some extent unbelievable. There were still a ton of problems with grammar and spelling. With such a good plot in hand, it's a shame the author doesn't show more attentiveness to these problems. It would make for a much more fulfilling and easy flowing read. All in all, Bennett and Gray got their happily-ever-after in a nicely done epilogue.

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, I loved the characters as well as the story line. I am left with just one question.... How long was Bennett out? I am glad she is finally getting what she deserved as well as her best friend Gray back!

Merged review:

Gray and Bennett ❤❤❤❤❤❤ through everything they never give up hope! I lived this book! Watching them as adults bond closer than ever. Great ending to a great story

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book.
2 broken people, who are in love. That always have outbursts but find their way back to each other.

I cried most of this book. I cannot wait til the next one comes out.

Merged review:

Omg. Perfect perfect 2nd book. Bennett and gray went thru sooo much in this book with raylon. But in the end they had their happy ever after

[Alison Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved both books in this series. Can't believe how much both Gray and Bennett went through but still always managed to get through it together. My heart broke over and over again for those two. Can't say how it ended but so excited to see that another book will be added.

[Margie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Why the hell have I read such utter BS? The story line would have been good were it not for the very confusing writing style. Everything was skimmed through and you were left to fill in a lot of blanks as though the author didn't have the patience to tell the story properly. Furthermore, on so many occasions characters are only referred to as 'he' and 'she' and you have to guess for more than half a page who the MC is speaking to or seeing. The whole story is so rushed that you never connect with the characters and 1/4 of the way into reading it, I stopped giving a shit to what happens to any of them.

And Gray, holy shit Gray. At first you feel sorry for him when Bennett goes through with the abortion but then he tells her friend to leave her to die. I get that he's very hurt, but who wishes death upon someone they claim to love? Then he stays away, gets married, has a quickie divorce and turns a blind eye while his best friend is in a very abusive relationship. The least he could do is maybe give her some advice, try to slap some sense into her? Nope, but he insists that he still loved her even then! He then proceeds to insert himself back into Bennett's life when she gets rid of the abusive jerk, erm hello? Where were you before that for someone you supposedly loved?

I refuse to speak about Bennett, I have never read a character with such low self esteem and self-hatred as this one. She stays in an abusive relationship for years because she thinks she deserves it, where is her dignity, pride or even self preservation? Her two room mates not only allow her to remain in said relationship but let the asshole live with them! This is the bit where I nearly threw the Kindle at the wall. If I were a friend to such a an emotional and mental wreck as Bennett, the least I would do is throw the jerk out of the house and call the police the next time I see him lift a finger. This book tells young people that it is ok to turn the other way when people close to us make really bad decisions or are getting hurt. Bennett also doesn't bat an eye when Gray, who abandoned her, comes back and asks her out for a date within a couple of hours of meeting again. As if four years haven't passed were he ignored her and even married some one else. What about taking it slow and building bridges and trust again? Her sense of self worth and happiness is so tide to how a man feels toward her and that is not ok. I rolled my eyes at the part where she realises she made a mistake by staying with Raylon for so long not because it is wrong to put up with physical and verbal abuse but because she knows how dissapointed Gray would be with her!

Last but not least, why was Raylon everywhere Bennett was at the beginning? He's at her high school, at a college party, then as a medic at the hospital and they continue to 'bump' into each other while Bennett never questions this. I laughed when he just happened to be at the same tourist resort half way across the world at the same damn time! Subsequently, the reader is never given answer for this odd behaviour. Another thing that hasn't been clarified by the author either because they were too lazy to explain or because it was convenient was how Bennett had lived by herself under the age of 18 for two years. But alas, so much of this book didn't make sense because the author didn't put in the time to write what could have been a great book and skimmed through writing a confusing story.

[Mary Wasowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a difficult story to read and at times it didn't make sense to me. You have two best friends that have been attached at the hip for 13 years, secretely love one another but haven't revealed their feelings, you get the image in your head that they have always been blissfully happy and then someone out of the blue pays attention to our female lead, Bennett and her bff Gray completely flips out and changes his attitude. We find out that Gray has been secretely seeing her girl bff Hannah which upsets Bennett driving her to fight with Gray and regretting the awful things she has said to him. They talk, they make up, they fight again, then they finally reveal their feelings for eachother and have unprotected sex before he is set to go off onto the police academy leaving her behind to go to college. What she does next completely threw me off, she finds out that she is pregnant and without even giving him an opportunity to discuss it, she ends the pregnancy, meanwhile Hannah tells Gray after the fact and he of course is crushed by her actions, leaving her to suffer in her guilt on top of get very sick after the procedure. Mystery guy shows up again, confusing our female lead, Bennett completely changes her life and sells her family home she shared with her now deceased parents, sells everything and moves on with Hannah and goes to college. Four years later, we find out that Gray never really has stopped loving her and wants her back only to find out that she has been in an abusive relationship and has been beaten nearly everyday, she takes it because she feels she deserves it and Hannah knows about this maybe not all of it but doesn't really take a stand to help her, which confuses the hell out of me because I can't imagine a friend of mine that would let this happen to me. So much more drama happens with this young couple at times its really hard to take because it seemed so tragic at times of the story and it just left me filled with many emotions. I went on to read book 2 of this arc and more was revealed on how this couple actually ticked, they did truly love eachother although flawed in their own ways, self doubt, miscommunication, seperation plague them for years, and in then end, all they were put through does get wrapped up by our author, and you the couple that you liked from the beginning emerge back into one another and get the ending they deserved.

Merged review:

My review of this book is combined with book 1!

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars - See the book synopsis for a full book description.

The prologue of this book really pulled me into the story and it was an excellent set up for the remainder of the book.

The premise of this book was remarkable and the writing was good.
Throughout the novel, I kept in mind the idea that this book is about someone who is broken. Further along in the story, I began to truly understand real brokenness and exactly the extent of that brokenness endured by the characters, which included loss, devastation and heartbreak, but so much more.

Beautifully Broken, to me, was a story of being so broken you become numb to life and feel deserving of all the pain it hands you.

I loved the characters in this book, although I felt their development wasn’t complete, I needed time for their stories to be told and the connections to be made. Bennett is a woman struggling with losses which ultimately affects her relationship with her best friend, Gray as circumstances filled with angst, sorrow and hurt breaks their friendship.

Parts of this story seemed slightly disconnected from the flow of the story and the timelines confused me a bit. I almost need it pointed out to me where I am in the story. I get nervous when a tale becomes jumpy and I’m not sure where I am. The book had gaps and it didn’t flow well in places, but the storyline and writing was emotional and heart wrenching. These points aside, this was a quick and engaging read, the gaps were mostly felt for me because I wanted to know more of the story and have more explained to me.

I wanted the author to slow down and take her time with me on this journey and let me get really connected and invested in these characters. From a psychological perspective I wanted to know Gray’s story and see his perspective. Being that this book was written from Bennett’s perspective I would have liked to know her more and for her story to build more thoroughly page by page. I did feel emotional reading this book and I know had I known these characters better, I would have been a complete wreck.

Beautifully Broken is a good effort by author Amanda Bennett. The story has intrigued me to want to see more as it develops into the next book due out in February 2013. Give it a try!