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Journey #1
Ending a Broken Journey
A childhood crush who moved away. An adult love that shattered her world. Twenty-seven year old Mackenzie Tillson hasn’t been living for quite some time, rather, just existing. Life is passing her by and even with the love of her friends and family she can’t quite seem to snap out of the disconnected bubble she has created around her. Moving day by day as a shell of a person who once knew what it meant to live.
Until one day, the boy who first had her heart comes back. With a vengeance...Drew Dean has been apart from the girl he loved all of those years ago for far too long and now that fate has provided them with a second chance, he will make it clear to her that she is, and always has been the one for him. But what Drew discovers in the process, is Mackenzie may just end up being completely unreachable.
Is it possible to get through to someone who has no intentions of ever letting anyone in again? Can a person find their way through the darkness and emptiness they've created? For Mackenzie, trudging along in life alone is where she feels she deserves to be. But will she find it in her to fight and break the barrier of the internal distorted view she has of herself? Or will she let everyone and everything slip away?
As Mackenzie tries to piece together the remnants of her shattered existence, she inadvertently discovers life, love and loss are one in the same. A hopeful journey to be taken with an ending to fill the emptiness she's carried for too long.
*This book contains adult situations and some explicit language.*
Until one day, the boy who first had her heart comes back. With a vengeance...Drew Dean has been apart from the girl he loved all of those years ago for far too long and now that fate has provided them with a second chance, he will make it clear to her that she is, and always has been the one for him. But what Drew discovers in the process, is Mackenzie may just end up being completely unreachable.
Is it possible to get through to someone who has no intentions of ever letting anyone in again? Can a person find their way through the darkness and emptiness they've created? For Mackenzie, trudging along in life alone is where she feels she deserves to be. But will she find it in her to fight and break the barrier of the internal distorted view she has of herself? Or will she let everyone and everything slip away?
As Mackenzie tries to piece together the remnants of her shattered existence, she inadvertently discovers life, love and loss are one in the same. A hopeful journey to be taken with an ending to fill the emptiness she's carried for too long.
*This book contains adult situations and some explicit language.*
366 pages, ebook
First published August 2, 2013
8 people are currently reading
1658 people want to read
About the author
Melissa L. Delgado
3 books334 followersMelissa Delgado currently resides in the sometimes sunny Tampa, Florida, with her very hyper Chihuahua mix, Ms. Mia Wallace. Melissa took hold of her creative juices and independently published her first novel, Ending a Broken Journey, in 2013 and continuing the series, Ending a Torn Past in 2015. Melissa also dabbles in a little bit of screen craft, completing her first short film, Nightmare, in early 2017. This short film struck her passion for switching genres and beginning writing stories of a more psychological nature. Additionally, despite a pandemic, in late 2020, she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English with a concentration in Fiction Writing and Screenwriting from Southern New Hampshire University. Here she is an elected member of The National Society of Leadership and Success, The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Sigma Tau Delta, and Alpha Sigma Lambda. On the off chance she has any extra time available, Melissa can be found hanging out in party chats playing Call of Duty, Ghost Recon, GTA V online, or helping out fellow agents in The Division 2 with the squad.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 13, 2016
♥ 4 STARS ♥
Kick-ass debut by a new author to watch out for!
Ending a Broken Journey was an absolute joy to read. It was a beautiful, emotional and meaningful journey of a girl who's been broken down by her past experiences. She's been broken down by life itself, but during this journey full of love, friendship, heartbreak, betrayal, forgiveness and second chances she starts to learn the true meaning of life.
Author Melissa L. Delgado has written a memorable, heartwarming story filled with beautifully written poems in which the female lead expresses her deepest thoughts and emotions.
When we first meet Mackenzie, it's immediately obvious she's not happy with her current life. Events of her past have left her miserable and heartbroken. All she seems to be doing is existing, rather than actual living.
She feels numb.
Useless.
Unworthy.
Empty.
Broken.
She tries to hide it, but her brother Kip, her best friends Ade and Cass, and her parents notice. She's not the same girl she once used to be. Something happened between her and her ex Wesley, but she refuses to tell anyone what went down exactly. All anyone knows is that it left her heartbroken and reduced to a shell of the person she used to be before she started her relationship with him. No one seems to able to get through to her.
That is, until Drew Dean comes back into her life...
When Drew and his brother Jax come back into town, Mackenzie doesn't realize her whole world is about to turn upside down. When they were kids, Drew and Mackenzie's older brother Kip were best friends. Since Drew's younger brother Jax was the same age as Mackenzie, the four of them became fast friends. Mackenzie and Drew both secretly had a crush on each other, but neither of them ever had a chance to act on their feelings before Drew's family abruptly moved out of state when they were teens.
Now, after so many years apart, they're back in each other's life and Drew is determined to bring back to life the cheerful, vibrant Mackenzie he once used to know.
When Drew and Mackenzie start spending more and more time together, Drew is the one who can finally make her feel alive again. He's the one who can make a smile without effort. And slowly but surely, he's the one who might be able to help her past all the events that made her into the broken person she is now.
The two of them have so much history and flashbacks throughout the story give us an idea of all the important and meaningful memories they share. The story is told from an alternating POV between Drew and Makcenzie, that way we get a really clear idea of how both of them are feeling.
Although Mackenzie feels empty inside, she still has a strong personality and as the story progresses she starts to show more and more willpower to destroy the demons that hunt her. Drew, on the other hand, has been determined from the start, and I loved that about him. He's patient and understanding and it's impossible not to fall for his sexy, flirtatious and sweet ways of bringing the "real" Mackenzie back to life.
At the beginning of their journey, Mackenzie starts out broken, but together with the help from her loved ones, she slowly but surely starts to revalue the meaning of life.
Mackenzie, Drew, Kip, Ade, Cass and Jax all become close friends and the six of them sort of had a Friends-like vibe around them, which made the story all the more fun to read. I loved all their interactions and that fact that they stood by each other no matter what. I especially loved Jax though, Drew's scarred and tatted up, yet quirky younger brother who managed to literally make me laugh out loud at times. I can't wait to read his story, as well as Kip's, as the series continues.
Ending a Broken Journey was the perfect start of this series and an impressive debut novel for author Melissa L. Delgado. The story can also be read as a stand alone with a HEA and I would highly recommend anyone who's looking for a love story with a powerful message to give it a try!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
**ARC courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review; Thank you, Mel! ;-) <3**
Kick-ass debut by a new author to watch out for!
Ending a Broken Journey was an absolute joy to read. It was a beautiful, emotional and meaningful journey of a girl who's been broken down by her past experiences. She's been broken down by life itself, but during this journey full of love, friendship, heartbreak, betrayal, forgiveness and second chances she starts to learn the true meaning of life.
Author Melissa L. Delgado has written a memorable, heartwarming story filled with beautifully written poems in which the female lead expresses her deepest thoughts and emotions.
"Trying to change for someone else will ultimately leave you lost."
When we first meet Mackenzie, it's immediately obvious she's not happy with her current life. Events of her past have left her miserable and heartbroken. All she seems to be doing is existing, rather than actual living.
She feels numb.
Useless.
Unworthy.
Empty.
Broken.
She tries to hide it, but her brother Kip, her best friends Ade and Cass, and her parents notice. She's not the same girl she once used to be. Something happened between her and her ex Wesley, but she refuses to tell anyone what went down exactly. All anyone knows is that it left her heartbroken and reduced to a shell of the person she used to be before she started her relationship with him. No one seems to able to get through to her.
That is, until Drew Dean comes back into her life...
When Drew and his brother Jax come back into town, Mackenzie doesn't realize her whole world is about to turn upside down. When they were kids, Drew and Mackenzie's older brother Kip were best friends. Since Drew's younger brother Jax was the same age as Mackenzie, the four of them became fast friends. Mackenzie and Drew both secretly had a crush on each other, but neither of them ever had a chance to act on their feelings before Drew's family abruptly moved out of state when they were teens.
Now, after so many years apart, they're back in each other's life and Drew is determined to bring back to life the cheerful, vibrant Mackenzie he once used to know.
"I know I've been gone for a while so I have a lot of time to make up for. Rest assured, it starts with getting to know the 'new, improved Kennie' you speak of."
When Drew and Mackenzie start spending more and more time together, Drew is the one who can finally make her feel alive again. He's the one who can make a smile without effort. And slowly but surely, he's the one who might be able to help her past all the events that made her into the broken person she is now.
"There's a reason we were brought back together. I know it. I can feel it when I'm around her."
The two of them have so much history and flashbacks throughout the story give us an idea of all the important and meaningful memories they share. The story is told from an alternating POV between Drew and Makcenzie, that way we get a really clear idea of how both of them are feeling.
Although Mackenzie feels empty inside, she still has a strong personality and as the story progresses she starts to show more and more willpower to destroy the demons that hunt her. Drew, on the other hand, has been determined from the start, and I loved that about him. He's patient and understanding and it's impossible not to fall for his sexy, flirtatious and sweet ways of bringing the "real" Mackenzie back to life.
"Kennie, I want to make you feel wanted. For all of the times you doubted yourself, what you were capable of, how beautiful you are inside. Mackenzie, I want these things for you because you deserve to feel all of it from someone who knows exactly what he's got."
At the beginning of their journey, Mackenzie starts out broken, but together with the help from her loved ones, she slowly but surely starts to revalue the meaning of life.
Mackenzie, Drew, Kip, Ade, Cass and Jax all become close friends and the six of them sort of had a Friends-like vibe around them, which made the story all the more fun to read. I loved all their interactions and that fact that they stood by each other no matter what. I especially loved Jax though, Drew's scarred and tatted up, yet quirky younger brother who managed to literally make me laugh out loud at times. I can't wait to read his story, as well as Kip's, as the series continues.
Ending a Broken Journey was the perfect start of this series and an impressive debut novel for author Melissa L. Delgado. The story can also be read as a stand alone with a HEA and I would highly recommend anyone who's looking for a love story with a powerful message to give it a try!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Vive ut vivas - Live so that you may live. I get it now. Chances, no matter how big or small, need to be taken. You never know what greatness you will find if you don't live."
**ARC courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review; Thank you, Mel! ;-) <3**
July 25, 2013
4 Love , Live , Life stars
Life is unpredictable, You are never prepared for what will happen. Life is unfair. Life may have won the battle but that I-I will win the war.
This book is the author's debut and it was really good. I loved almost everything about it except from the ending .Seriously , it's not the ending , it's me. I dont know why I hate it so much but thankfully there was an epilogue that saved me from serious frustration. Also it was a little slow in some parts but overall it was a great read. Melissa is a promising author and I'll gladly read more of her books.
The story
Kennie has great friends , amazing parents and a protective brother .She shouldn't feel alone but she does. Incidents of the past are still tormenting her. The memories are haunting her and she doesn’t seem to have forgotten what happened to her .No one can reach the dark places in her mind and figure out what happened . They have no clue aside from the fact that her engagement failed. A guy broke her heart or he hurt her in other ways?
Drew is a friend from the past. He was her brother's best friend who had moved town and now after so many years he is back with his brother Jax. He has also a past that wants to hide and I have to give him the credits that he is doing a great job on this domain .Drew and Kennie used to be very close but now as adults things might be more friendly between them.
I'll help in any way to bring old Kennie back.
After all these years he can easily notice that something is off with Kennie. Those blue eyes are now lifeless , she is not the same and he is determined to bring her back.
My thoughts : Why I loved it? It's easy to answer, I could connect with Kennie. Kennie is not your ordinary girl towards whom you'll feel bad for what happened to her but you will sympathize with her. Truth to be told the final strike wasn’t what made her that way but the journey that she'd been through.
There isn’t a worst thing like psychological war.(Does it make sense to you , or is it completely Greek ;p). Most of us either have been through that sh*t or we had a friend that experienced it. I belong to the second category and trust me , it's awful to see your friend helpless knowing that you can’t do anything to help him/her. There is a point that you start feeling guilty yourself and wondering why him? Anyway, before you open your mouth you must think whether what you'll say will have an impact to the others life. Unconsciously we blurt out things without thinking because that's one of the man's characteristics but we won’t understand what it feels like being the victim if you haven’t been in that position by yourself.
How can anyone be good for me when I haven't figured out how to be good for myself?
Hmmm I saw somewhere that the next book is about Jax *grins*
OMG I cant wait!! I loved this guy. Seriously? Who can resist tattoos??Apparently not me....
Arc kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews check our blog
http://readmore-sleepless.blogspot.gr/
July 27, 2013
4-4.5 Beautiful stars!
A beautiful debut novel about love, trust, friendship, second chances and healing.
Mackenzie hasn’t been herself the last year or so. After ending her engagement with her fiance, she has been different. Her family and friends don’t know why, they just try to be there for her the best that they can.
She is broken, damaged, numb. Just trying to get through day to day. She does the best she can to pretend around her best friends and brother, but they see through it. Mackenzie has put up a wall that no one can seem to penetrate. That is, until the Dean brothers come back into town.
Drew and Jax Dean grew up with Mackenzie and her older brother, Kip. Kip and Drew were best friends, and Mackenzie had the biggest crush on Drew. When he moved away before her first year of high school, she was heartbroken. Drew also had feelings for Kennie, but then he moved, plus she was his best friends little sister. He couldn’t go there. Now, things are different. He can tell Kennie isn’t the same. The spark that was in her eyes is gone. Drew is persistent and begins to break down some of Kennie’s walls. Along with Jax, her running buddy, they are able to get her to open up more to them in a few weeks than she has to her friends and family in years.
Drew’s life hasn’t been perfect the last few years either. He has had some relationship issues, family issues etc, but now he’s with Kennie again, it’s a second chance for him.
Drew was the best. Charming, sweet, sexy. I adored him. He worked to get Mackenzie to open up to him, to build her back up. He was able to show her just how special she is.
Mackenzie has always had feelings for Drew- you don’t just get over your first love. It takes her a while to get over her self doubt, feelings of no self worth. Drew makes it easier. She is falling in love with him all over again. Just as Mackenzie is starting to heal, get stronger, learn to open up and love again, something happens that could potentially ruin it all... Secrets come out, trust is broken... will they be able to get it back?
A second chance at a first love, these are some of my favorite types of books! Such a beautiful and heartwarming story. The story is told in dual pov’s, which happen to be my favorite. It also takes us back into the past, which was nice. Mackenzie’s journey was real and seriously heartbreaking. Feeling empty, unworthy, useless because of thoughts someone else put in her head, it just made me so sad. To see her come back out of her shell, the strength, growth, self worth- it was a beautiful thing.
Her journal entries/poetry were amazing, a great addition to the story. The writing was fluid, the pace of the book was great, not too fast or slow. I really enjoyed this story. Another wonderful thing was the supporting characters. Drew and Kennie’s brothers, and Kennie’s best friends. They were all a vital part of Kennie's growth. As much as I loved Drew and Kennie, Jax was my favorite character in this story. I am so interested to see how his book goes! A fantastic debut novel I would recommend!
**ARC provided by author, Melissa L. Delgado, in exchange for a honest review**
A beautiful debut novel about love, trust, friendship, second chances and healing.
Mackenzie hasn’t been herself the last year or so. After ending her engagement with her fiance, she has been different. Her family and friends don’t know why, they just try to be there for her the best that they can.
She is broken, damaged, numb. Just trying to get through day to day. She does the best she can to pretend around her best friends and brother, but they see through it. Mackenzie has put up a wall that no one can seem to penetrate. That is, until the Dean brothers come back into town.
Drew and Jax Dean grew up with Mackenzie and her older brother, Kip. Kip and Drew were best friends, and Mackenzie had the biggest crush on Drew. When he moved away before her first year of high school, she was heartbroken. Drew also had feelings for Kennie, but then he moved, plus she was his best friends little sister. He couldn’t go there. Now, things are different. He can tell Kennie isn’t the same. The spark that was in her eyes is gone. Drew is persistent and begins to break down some of Kennie’s walls. Along with Jax, her running buddy, they are able to get her to open up more to them in a few weeks than she has to her friends and family in years.
“The way you see yourself, Kennie, is wrong. I know it’s wrong because when I see you, I see so much more.”
Drew’s life hasn’t been perfect the last few years either. He has had some relationship issues, family issues etc, but now he’s with Kennie again, it’s a second chance for him.
Drew was the best. Charming, sweet, sexy. I adored him. He worked to get Mackenzie to open up to him, to build her back up. He was able to show her just how special she is.
“Kennie, I want to make you feel wanted. For all of the times you doubted yourself, what you were capable of, how beautiful you are inside and out. Mainly, I want these things for you because you deserve to fell all of it from someone who knows exactly what he’s got.”
“All of these years later, we still found each other. The wait for you was completely worth it.”
Mackenzie has always had feelings for Drew- you don’t just get over your first love. It takes her a while to get over her self doubt, feelings of no self worth. Drew makes it easier. She is falling in love with him all over again. Just as Mackenzie is starting to heal, get stronger, learn to open up and love again, something happens that could potentially ruin it all... Secrets come out, trust is broken... will they be able to get it back?
There’s no way I could’ve ever known the true meaning of happiness without having experienced true sadness; my true sadness.
A second chance at a first love, these are some of my favorite types of books! Such a beautiful and heartwarming story. The story is told in dual pov’s, which happen to be my favorite. It also takes us back into the past, which was nice. Mackenzie’s journey was real and seriously heartbreaking. Feeling empty, unworthy, useless because of thoughts someone else put in her head, it just made me so sad. To see her come back out of her shell, the strength, growth, self worth- it was a beautiful thing.
Her journal entries/poetry were amazing, a great addition to the story. The writing was fluid, the pace of the book was great, not too fast or slow. I really enjoyed this story. Another wonderful thing was the supporting characters. Drew and Kennie’s brothers, and Kennie’s best friends. They were all a vital part of Kennie's growth. As much as I loved Drew and Kennie, Jax was my favorite character in this story. I am so interested to see how his book goes! A fantastic debut novel I would recommend!
**ARC provided by author, Melissa L. Delgado, in exchange for a honest review**
July 18, 2013
Melissa L. Delgado is my friend and reading buddy, her reviews here on Good Reads have grabbed a lot of fellow readers’ attention as well as author nods. Her writing is beautiful and many may not know that she is truly a poet at heart and participates in Slams, a female Will Cooper so to say.
As a fan of books that are more than a story but a journey she was inspired and encouraged to write her own book. I can’t say enough on how talented I think she is and how cleverly she incorporated her passion for poetry through the pages of this novel.
Ending a Broken Journey tells the story of Mackenzie Tillson, a woman who many readers will be able to connect to. She is surrounded by great family and friends but hurts from her past failed relationship haunts her. Mackenzie suffered through some really harsh kicks to her self-esteem and a reader finds her barely coping and still processing all the the aftershocks to her psyche.
”I, Mackenzie Alexa Tillson, see emptiness.
Emptiness and hatred.
Hatred for myself, hatred for those who betrayed me, hatred for being so naïve, and ultimately, hatred for the fact that I haven’t truly moved on from any of it.”
Mackenzie’s world and armor is rocked when after eleven years Drew and Jax Dean return back into her life. The Dean brothers were family friends and through terrific flashbacks a reader is privy to back story on Mackenzie’s childhood crush on Drew Dean.
Mackenzie’s girlfriends, Cass and Adriane and her brother Kip are just fantastic. Those Dean brothers are just yummy! The dialogue amongst the characters is fun, sarcastic and Drew and Mckenzie’s relationship reconnection was a fun ride!
I found Kip, Jax and Drew really hot, sexy and witty and the journey of self love a worthwhile topic.
This story is a true journey told in alternating pov of Mckenzie and Drew and is complete with a hea. There are steamy sex scenes, humorous outings as well as some kick ass poetry.
”…When I look at myself,
I see all of the reasons I will never let life pass me by,
Ever again,
I see all of the reasons,
Why I lost the battle,
And now, see all of the
reasons I came out on top,
I see all of the reasons on
why I won my war.”
Take a journey with Melissa L. Delgado’s debut novel. I hope you will enjoy her writing half as much as I do!
*I had the opportunity to beta read for Melisa L. Delgado*
August 23, 2013
So...maybe I'm biased because I wrote it...again maybe ;)
****UPDATE******
I hear there are a variety of dear old Jaxon "Jax" Dean lovers...so for now, check out his interview with Sweet Dreams Book Blog! <3
http://beautifuldreamer26.blogspot.co...
****UPDATE******
I hear there are a variety of dear old Jaxon "Jax" Dean lovers...so for now, check out his interview with Sweet Dreams Book Blog! <3
http://beautifuldreamer26.blogspot.co...
July 21, 2013
I very much enjoyed this and I’d like to thank the author for the opportunity to read and review this book before publication.
Drew and Mackenzie have known each other pretty much all their lives. Mackenzie had a huge crush on Drew but he moved away with his family and they’ve not seen each other for years. Now Drew and his brother Jax have moved back to town to work with Mackenzie’s father on a merger between their companies. He can’t wait to see Mackenzie but he’s shocked when he finally catches up with her. Gone is the carefree, fun-loving tomboy he remembers with incredible fondness to be replaced by a beautiful but incredibly sad woman who is a shell of her former self. He’s determined to find out what has happened to her and even more determined to put the light back in her eyes and the smile back on her face.
Drew – I really fell for him. He’s easy-going, charming, sexy and very funny. His two passions in life are Mackenzie and his car – a 1966 Buick Skylark. When he looks at Mackenzie, he’s staggered at how much she’s changed and can see the pain and suffering in her eyes and wants nothing more than to bring back the girl he once knew and secretly loved. I adored him a lot but I confess that I fell hook, line and sinker for his younger brother Jax who is even funnier and covered in mysterious tatts and scars that I can’t wait to find out more about. Together the two of them along with Mackenzie’s very protective older brother, Kip, really made me fall in love with this series and I can’t wait for their books too.
Mackenzie is a woman weighed down by the experiences of the past. She hasn’t just lost her self-confidence, it’s been shattered and completely destroyed. We do get to find out what has happened with her and her ex- Wesley and how her former friend Sammie was involved. In fact, the first time Sammie strutted onto a page in her towering stiletto's I heard the wicked witch music from the Wizard of Oz and wanted to hiss at her like an angry cat! I confess Mackenzie’s lack of self-worth really got to me after a while – I just wanted to shake her and snap her out of it. Thankfully, Drew is far more patient than me and Mackenzie is stronger than she believes and things will all come together.
I very much enjoyed this as a standalone love story and also as a foundation for a new series. Along with Mackenzie, Drew, Jax and Kip we’re introduced to Mackenzie’s best friends Ade and Cass and the six of them together were a joy to read – it felt like watching an episode of Friends. There’s some real laugh out loud humour in here too as I read with a goofy grin at some of their antics and conversations. This is Kip and Drew discussing Halloween when Kip decides to dress up as Tarzan………..
The writing style drew me in right from the first page even before the characters did – to me it felt mature and sophisticated and Melissa Delgado has a real flair for poetry as Mackenzie pours all her sorrows out into a notebook that Drew has given her with some really heartfelt prose. There’s great character development – I felt like I got know the central six characters very well and really grew to love them all and am looking forward to more from them. I thought the pacing was excellent – nothing annoys me more as a reader than when an author gallops through a story with a load of ‘he said, she said’ and glosses over the deeper emotions. I need to absorb what’s happening and see the characters do this too and experience how they feel about events and I thought Melissa Delgado did this brilliantly. Mackenzie was a tad slow to shake off all that lack of self-worth but it’s worth sticking with her for the truly delicious ending and epilogue. The story is told as an alternating POV from both Drew and Mackenzie and flash backs to them as teens and I knocked a star off as I found the alternating timescales a little confusing – sometimes I had to pause and think about whether I was in the here and now or back in the past but it’s a minor gripe and the book has yet to go through its final edits before publication.
To sum up - an incredibly promising debut from a new author – really looking forward to the rest of the series. Most especially Jax’s story. Le Sigh!!
4 stars
Series Reading Order – Journey Series
Ending a Broken Journey – due August 3rd 2013
Ending a Torn Past – Jax’s story – due early 2014
TBC - Kip’s story
Drew and Mackenzie have known each other pretty much all their lives. Mackenzie had a huge crush on Drew but he moved away with his family and they’ve not seen each other for years. Now Drew and his brother Jax have moved back to town to work with Mackenzie’s father on a merger between their companies. He can’t wait to see Mackenzie but he’s shocked when he finally catches up with her. Gone is the carefree, fun-loving tomboy he remembers with incredible fondness to be replaced by a beautiful but incredibly sad woman who is a shell of her former self. He’s determined to find out what has happened to her and even more determined to put the light back in her eyes and the smile back on her face.
“Sweetheart,” I pull her flush against me and raise my hand to brush my thumb against her bottom lip. “I see you and the insecurities you carry around.” I put my index finger against her lips to assure her I’m not done, “and I want you to know, whatever did happen to you? Whatever delusions that last asshole put in your head, the one who helped to make you think so poorly of yourself, are wrong. The way you see yourself, Kennie, is wrong.” I pause and lightly shake my head. “I know it’s wrong, because I when I see you, I see so much more.”
Drew – I really fell for him. He’s easy-going, charming, sexy and very funny. His two passions in life are Mackenzie and his car – a 1966 Buick Skylark. When he looks at Mackenzie, he’s staggered at how much she’s changed and can see the pain and suffering in her eyes and wants nothing more than to bring back the girl he once knew and secretly loved. I adored him a lot but I confess that I fell hook, line and sinker for his younger brother Jax who is even funnier and covered in mysterious tatts and scars that I can’t wait to find out more about. Together the two of them along with Mackenzie’s very protective older brother, Kip, really made me fall in love with this series and I can’t wait for their books too.
Mackenzie is a woman weighed down by the experiences of the past. She hasn’t just lost her self-confidence, it’s been shattered and completely destroyed. We do get to find out what has happened with her and her ex- Wesley and how her former friend Sammie was involved. In fact, the first time Sammie strutted onto a page in her towering stiletto's I heard the wicked witch music from the Wizard of Oz and wanted to hiss at her like an angry cat! I confess Mackenzie’s lack of self-worth really got to me after a while – I just wanted to shake her and snap her out of it. Thankfully, Drew is far more patient than me and Mackenzie is stronger than she believes and things will all come together.
I very much enjoyed this as a standalone love story and also as a foundation for a new series. Along with Mackenzie, Drew, Jax and Kip we’re introduced to Mackenzie’s best friends Ade and Cass and the six of them together were a joy to read – it felt like watching an episode of Friends. There’s some real laugh out loud humour in here too as I read with a goofy grin at some of their antics and conversations. This is Kip and Drew discussing Halloween when Kip decides to dress up as Tarzan………..
“Anyway, have you decided what you’re going to be for tomorrow night?”
“Nah, I haven’t given it much thought. You?”
“Fuck yeah I have! I’m going as…wait for it...Tarzan!” He yells this as if it’s the most brilliant idea he’s had to date. I burst into laughter.
“Tarzan? Really?”
“Hey, no judgment from the boring and undecided. Halloween is my favorite holiday. You know why?” I shake my head at him. “Because, it’s the one time of year girls don’t mind dressing as slutty as they can. It’s a beautiful thing my friend.” He claps my back grinning.
The writing style drew me in right from the first page even before the characters did – to me it felt mature and sophisticated and Melissa Delgado has a real flair for poetry as Mackenzie pours all her sorrows out into a notebook that Drew has given her with some really heartfelt prose. There’s great character development – I felt like I got know the central six characters very well and really grew to love them all and am looking forward to more from them. I thought the pacing was excellent – nothing annoys me more as a reader than when an author gallops through a story with a load of ‘he said, she said’ and glosses over the deeper emotions. I need to absorb what’s happening and see the characters do this too and experience how they feel about events and I thought Melissa Delgado did this brilliantly. Mackenzie was a tad slow to shake off all that lack of self-worth but it’s worth sticking with her for the truly delicious ending and epilogue. The story is told as an alternating POV from both Drew and Mackenzie and flash backs to them as teens and I knocked a star off as I found the alternating timescales a little confusing – sometimes I had to pause and think about whether I was in the here and now or back in the past but it’s a minor gripe and the book has yet to go through its final edits before publication.
To sum up - an incredibly promising debut from a new author – really looking forward to the rest of the series. Most especially Jax’s story. Le Sigh!!
4 stars
Series Reading Order – Journey Series
Ending a Broken Journey – due August 3rd 2013
Ending a Torn Past – Jax’s story – due early 2014
TBC - Kip’s story
July 24, 2013
I had the honor of being Melissa Delgado's Critique Partner and what a journey it's been. First, I think it's fair to share how Melissa and I met. Right after the release of "Disastrous" I felt alone in the writing/book world. I didn't associate or know any authors, because I was so new to it all. I was invited by a reader to a Private Book Club Group on Facebook. That’s when I met a great deal of wonderful readers/bloggers/writers. All of us shared the same interest, which in turn made us all equal. I loved this group to run to when I needed my next book fix, or to just simply interact with other book nerds like myself.
One day another follower posted a review for SLAMMED by Colleen Hoover. The review was written by Melissa L. Delgado (who we still didn’t know each other yet). But it wasn't just any review. It was a beautifully written poem. The poem moved me and made me cry. Yes. Cry! That very day I was feeling down, almost wanted to give up, that maybe this book world was too much for me to handle. Until I read Melissa's poem that is. That poem lifted me up, brought the reality back as to WHY I wrote my story to begin with and allowed me to feel the desire to write again.
I commented under the post of how much that poem meant to me and I asked permission if I could use it as my screen saver to my laptop. So every time I felt down I can simply read it and be inspired again. Melissa Delgado instantly sent me a private message. She felt humbled and honored that I felt inspired by her poem. After a few messages back and forth we began talking more. I read a few more of her reviews for other books that were just as equally beautifully written. I messaged her and said, "You know, have you ever thought of writing your own book? You have a gift of inspiring and moving others with your words." She said "Actually, I am." And the rest was history. We never go a day without speaking (except for the 5 days I was on vacation and it was torture for the both of us. LOL.)
So it wasn't a surprise when she asked me to be a part of her writing process that I jumped at the chance. I couldn’t be any prouder of her debut novel and the more she writes the more she improves. I know for a fact she'll be well known in no time.
Ending a Broken Journey, is a book about hope. About when other’s believes in you when you can't believe in yourself. It's about how a broken person can indeed be brought back together and happy. Mackenzie "Kennie" Tillson, is an ordinary woman, with family and friends that love and support her more than anything. Though, after a five year verbally and emotionally abusive relationship, a terrible act causes her fiancé, Wes, and her to end their engagement. You would think after finally escaping a relationship that only brought hatred and turmoil to herself that Kennie would finally be free and move on. But she doesn't. How could she move on after being told that she's not good enough, or skinny enough, or sexy enough from someone that was suppose to cherish and love her? Her insecurities within herself and her relationship were the reason she pushed away from those that loved and cared for her the most, causing her to be nothing, but an empty shell of herself.
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When the Dean Brothers, Drew and Jax Dean, (HOTNESS PEOPLE! TOTAL HOTNESS), move back to Florida to merge their company with the Tillson's company EVERYTHING CHANGES.
Drew Dean was childhood friends with Kennie's brother, Kip. Drew was also Kennie's childhood crush. When Drew first sees the "grown up" Kennie he's floored with how beautiful she's grown to be, but when he looks at her all he see's is a hollow Kennie. Not the lively, tomboy Kennie he used to know. And Drew is determined to stop at nothing to find out what happened to this Kennie and bring her back.
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What I loved so much about this story is that you are not only introduced to the present but also the past. In each chapter we are given flashbacks. There were flashbacks of Kennie's relationship with Wes. As well, as childhood flashback with, Drew. The flashbacks with Drew and Kennie were my favorite; it brought their relationship full circle for me and helped me connect with these characters immensely.
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Kennie, also writes in her journal using Poetry as a way to cope with her feelings. And as you know Poetry is the reason that brought Melissa and I together, so when she said she might throw poetry into the book I was ALL FOR IT.
Not only do we have the two POV's of both Kennie and Drew. Melissa Delgado, wrote wonderful and realistic supporting characters with strong family values. Kip, being Kennie's Protective Older Brother. Cass and Ade, Kennie's two best friends. Jax (OH Jax. SIGH) the goofy younger brother of Drew. Jax stole every scene he was in. I fell in love with him. Although Jax is charming and funny he has a dark side as well and it just so happens we get to explore his story in his own book Ending a Torn Past (Journey #2). I'm excited to be a part in his journey as well!
In all, this is a book that you definitely should give a shot. Kennie and Drew's story isn't fast pace, but I wouldn't want theirs to be, I thought it was beautifully written and perfect for THEIR story. Their HEA.
RELEASE: August 3, 2013 Add to your TBR LIST!
One day another follower posted a review for SLAMMED by Colleen Hoover. The review was written by Melissa L. Delgado (who we still didn’t know each other yet). But it wasn't just any review. It was a beautifully written poem. The poem moved me and made me cry. Yes. Cry! That very day I was feeling down, almost wanted to give up, that maybe this book world was too much for me to handle. Until I read Melissa's poem that is. That poem lifted me up, brought the reality back as to WHY I wrote my story to begin with and allowed me to feel the desire to write again.
I commented under the post of how much that poem meant to me and I asked permission if I could use it as my screen saver to my laptop. So every time I felt down I can simply read it and be inspired again. Melissa Delgado instantly sent me a private message. She felt humbled and honored that I felt inspired by her poem. After a few messages back and forth we began talking more. I read a few more of her reviews for other books that were just as equally beautifully written. I messaged her and said, "You know, have you ever thought of writing your own book? You have a gift of inspiring and moving others with your words." She said "Actually, I am." And the rest was history. We never go a day without speaking (except for the 5 days I was on vacation and it was torture for the both of us. LOL.)
So it wasn't a surprise when she asked me to be a part of her writing process that I jumped at the chance. I couldn’t be any prouder of her debut novel and the more she writes the more she improves. I know for a fact she'll be well known in no time.
Ending a Broken Journey, is a book about hope. About when other’s believes in you when you can't believe in yourself. It's about how a broken person can indeed be brought back together and happy. Mackenzie "Kennie" Tillson, is an ordinary woman, with family and friends that love and support her more than anything. Though, after a five year verbally and emotionally abusive relationship, a terrible act causes her fiancé, Wes, and her to end their engagement. You would think after finally escaping a relationship that only brought hatred and turmoil to herself that Kennie would finally be free and move on. But she doesn't. How could she move on after being told that she's not good enough, or skinny enough, or sexy enough from someone that was suppose to cherish and love her? Her insecurities within herself and her relationship were the reason she pushed away from those that loved and cared for her the most, causing her to be nothing, but an empty shell of herself.
[image error]
When the Dean Brothers, Drew and Jax Dean, (HOTNESS PEOPLE! TOTAL HOTNESS), move back to Florida to merge their company with the Tillson's company EVERYTHING CHANGES.
Drew Dean was childhood friends with Kennie's brother, Kip. Drew was also Kennie's childhood crush. When Drew first sees the "grown up" Kennie he's floored with how beautiful she's grown to be, but when he looks at her all he see's is a hollow Kennie. Not the lively, tomboy Kennie he used to know. And Drew is determined to stop at nothing to find out what happened to this Kennie and bring her back.
[image error]
What I loved so much about this story is that you are not only introduced to the present but also the past. In each chapter we are given flashbacks. There were flashbacks of Kennie's relationship with Wes. As well, as childhood flashback with, Drew. The flashbacks with Drew and Kennie were my favorite; it brought their relationship full circle for me and helped me connect with these characters immensely.
[image error]
Kennie, also writes in her journal using Poetry as a way to cope with her feelings. And as you know Poetry is the reason that brought Melissa and I together, so when she said she might throw poetry into the book I was ALL FOR IT.
Not only do we have the two POV's of both Kennie and Drew. Melissa Delgado, wrote wonderful and realistic supporting characters with strong family values. Kip, being Kennie's Protective Older Brother. Cass and Ade, Kennie's two best friends. Jax (OH Jax. SIGH) the goofy younger brother of Drew. Jax stole every scene he was in. I fell in love with him. Although Jax is charming and funny he has a dark side as well and it just so happens we get to explore his story in his own book Ending a Torn Past (Journey #2). I'm excited to be a part in his journey as well!
In all, this is a book that you definitely should give a shot. Kennie and Drew's story isn't fast pace, but I wouldn't want theirs to be, I thought it was beautifully written and perfect for THEIR story. Their HEA.
RELEASE: August 3, 2013 Add to your TBR LIST!
July 15, 2013
ARC copy received on exchange for an honest review.
Recently I've been in a bit of a book funk, everythings starting to look the same so when this came up for review I jumped at the chance mainly because then I wouldn't have to decide what to read next. I'm so glad I did :) The first thing I saw when I started was a quote, '"When I look back on my life, I see pain, mistakes and heart ache. When I look in the mirror, I see strength, learned lessons, and pride in myself", Author Unknown'. Now usually I don't actually share anything from the actual book as I don't want to spoil things for others, but honestly, I just found those words too profound not to share. I think its something we can all in our own way relate to, and for me, it really was one of the best book openings I've came across so far. Then its on to the prologue which is so heart-wrenchingly beautiful that very early on I got the feeling this was gonna be an unputdownable hangover book. Mackenzie is broken, that much is obvious pretty much straight away. Saying that though I loved her 'voice', you want to get know her, know what her problems are and ultimately, how to fix her. I found myself totally rooting for her all the way through, she wasn't a typical whiny book heroine just waiting for the right man to come save her. As for Drew, he was a great character, definitely book boyfriend material. He was cute, sweet and funny. In fact all the boys were totally cocky but laugh out loud funny, especially Drew's little brother Jax, his one liners and banter had me in fits on more than one occasion. I loved that Mackenzie had such a close knit loyal group of friends, including her older brother and two closest girlfriends who supported her without pushing their own ideals down her throat. She also had parents who even though you don't see much of them are clearly supportive and love their children very much, not something I've seen much of lately in books. There are so many different threads running throughout this story but at no point was I unsure what was going on because of it. It does tend to add a bit of mystery to the story though and keep you guessing, as much as I wanted to find out what had happened to Mackenzie, you don't actually find out till quite a way through and even then its only snippets, there were several points in the book I thought I'd figured things out only to be proven wrong which was actually a nice thing to happen cause for me it meant that the book was at no point predictable. Thankfully there was no cliff hanger ending but so many things in the book were only hinted at and I for one, would absolutely love to see more books about these characters. The author has a very fluid style of writing, at no point did it feel forced or stilted and the humour throughout the book really helped lift the emotion. This was a roller-coaster read that had me up half the night just so I could finish it and find out what happens, no matter how itchy my fingers got I managed (barely) to refrain from skipping to the last page and seeing how it ended. Really glad I let things play out the way the author intended cause I was not disappointed by the ending in any way. There were alternating POV's but this was done in such a way that it was easy to tell who was speaking and it was great to be able to get a glimpse of more than one characters opinions and perceptions. The book does contain adult situations and quite a lot of swearing however I think its done well enough to satisfy most tastes, it wasn't constantly people pawing at each other, but what was there was extremely well written but not overly smutty. Overall it was a great read and pretty much guaranteed to do well upon release, and an author I will be keeping an eye out for from now on :)
Recently I've been in a bit of a book funk, everythings starting to look the same so when this came up for review I jumped at the chance mainly because then I wouldn't have to decide what to read next. I'm so glad I did :) The first thing I saw when I started was a quote, '"When I look back on my life, I see pain, mistakes and heart ache. When I look in the mirror, I see strength, learned lessons, and pride in myself", Author Unknown'. Now usually I don't actually share anything from the actual book as I don't want to spoil things for others, but honestly, I just found those words too profound not to share. I think its something we can all in our own way relate to, and for me, it really was one of the best book openings I've came across so far. Then its on to the prologue which is so heart-wrenchingly beautiful that very early on I got the feeling this was gonna be an unputdownable hangover book. Mackenzie is broken, that much is obvious pretty much straight away. Saying that though I loved her 'voice', you want to get know her, know what her problems are and ultimately, how to fix her. I found myself totally rooting for her all the way through, she wasn't a typical whiny book heroine just waiting for the right man to come save her. As for Drew, he was a great character, definitely book boyfriend material. He was cute, sweet and funny. In fact all the boys were totally cocky but laugh out loud funny, especially Drew's little brother Jax, his one liners and banter had me in fits on more than one occasion. I loved that Mackenzie had such a close knit loyal group of friends, including her older brother and two closest girlfriends who supported her without pushing their own ideals down her throat. She also had parents who even though you don't see much of them are clearly supportive and love their children very much, not something I've seen much of lately in books. There are so many different threads running throughout this story but at no point was I unsure what was going on because of it. It does tend to add a bit of mystery to the story though and keep you guessing, as much as I wanted to find out what had happened to Mackenzie, you don't actually find out till quite a way through and even then its only snippets, there were several points in the book I thought I'd figured things out only to be proven wrong which was actually a nice thing to happen cause for me it meant that the book was at no point predictable. Thankfully there was no cliff hanger ending but so many things in the book were only hinted at and I for one, would absolutely love to see more books about these characters. The author has a very fluid style of writing, at no point did it feel forced or stilted and the humour throughout the book really helped lift the emotion. This was a roller-coaster read that had me up half the night just so I could finish it and find out what happens, no matter how itchy my fingers got I managed (barely) to refrain from skipping to the last page and seeing how it ended. Really glad I let things play out the way the author intended cause I was not disappointed by the ending in any way. There were alternating POV's but this was done in such a way that it was easy to tell who was speaking and it was great to be able to get a glimpse of more than one characters opinions and perceptions. The book does contain adult situations and quite a lot of swearing however I think its done well enough to satisfy most tastes, it wasn't constantly people pawing at each other, but what was there was extremely well written but not overly smutty. Overall it was a great read and pretty much guaranteed to do well upon release, and an author I will be keeping an eye out for from now on :)
July 15, 2013
"When I look back on my life, I see pain, mistakes and heartache. When I look in the mirror, I see strength, learned lessons, and pride in myself."
Ending a Broken Journey is the story of Kennie and Drew. A story of finding and losing your first love, a story of heartache and healing, a story of learning to love yourself so you can love another.
The story is told in alternating POVs, which I love. The story also gives us flashes of the past, allowing the reader to experience Drew and Kennie's relationship from the very beginning.
Kennie is just existing. A verbally abusive relationship has left her a shell of the person she used to be. She's no longer happy in life and doesn't open up to others for fear they will just pity her.
Hatred. Damaged. Empty. Betrayed.
With Drew (and his brother Jax) back in her life, Kennie slowly starts to open up more and live again. She doesn't trust easily and both Drew and Jax begin to break down the walls she's spent so long building.
I will say the pacing of this story was a bit on the slower side. There was nothing rushed about Kennie and Drew's relationship. Kennie uses poetry as a way to express her feelings and the author did a wonderful job of incorporating some incredible poetry in to the book.
Kennie finally finds the strength to open up to Drew about what she went through in the past, only to discover that Drew has been harboring his own secrets. Is Kennie strong enough to forgive Drew for hiding his past? Is her love for herself enough to allow her to see the love she has with Drew?
"Drew?"
"Yeah?"
"I love you," she says leaning in, close to my ear so I can hear
her.
"Say it again?"
"I love you"
"One more time?"
"I. Love. You," I hear her giggle.
"Forever, Kennie. I'll love you, forever."
Kennie's journey may have started out broken , but somewhere along the way she was able to pick up the pieces. The pieces to create a new journey, a journey where Kennie comes out on top.
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Ending a Broken Journey is the story of Kennie and Drew. A story of finding and losing your first love, a story of heartache and healing, a story of learning to love yourself so you can love another.
The story is told in alternating POVs, which I love. The story also gives us flashes of the past, allowing the reader to experience Drew and Kennie's relationship from the very beginning.
Kennie is just existing. A verbally abusive relationship has left her a shell of the person she used to be. She's no longer happy in life and doesn't open up to others for fear they will just pity her.
Hatred. Damaged. Empty. Betrayed.
With Drew (and his brother Jax) back in her life, Kennie slowly starts to open up more and live again. She doesn't trust easily and both Drew and Jax begin to break down the walls she's spent so long building.
I will say the pacing of this story was a bit on the slower side. There was nothing rushed about Kennie and Drew's relationship. Kennie uses poetry as a way to express her feelings and the author did a wonderful job of incorporating some incredible poetry in to the book.
Kennie finally finds the strength to open up to Drew about what she went through in the past, only to discover that Drew has been harboring his own secrets. Is Kennie strong enough to forgive Drew for hiding his past? Is her love for herself enough to allow her to see the love she has with Drew?
"Drew?"
"Yeah?"
"I love you," she says leaning in, close to my ear so I can hear
her.
"Say it again?"
"I love you"
"One more time?"
"I. Love. You," I hear her giggle.
"Forever, Kennie. I'll love you, forever."
Kennie's journey may have started out broken , but somewhere along the way she was able to pick up the pieces. The pieces to create a new journey, a journey where Kennie comes out on top.
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
July 22, 2013
Oh Yeah...I'm reading the ARC copy!!!!
I had the great honor to read the ARC copy of this book and I will always be so grateful to Melissa L. Delgado for asking me to read this beautiful book. Melissa is beyond talented and her story is more then just a typical romance book. She has poetry through out the whole book and that was just beautiful. It gave the book so much more feeling, it was different and so moving. I also loved how the story was told by both POV's. Both POV's would think of something from the past that reminding them of what was happening in the present. I absolutely loved that. I really felt that made the book so special along with the poems.
You will fall in love with Drew. He is sweet, gorgeous, romantic and totally swoon worthy. You will adore Mackenzie, she is beautiful inside and out. Plus, we get a whole cast of characters that are awesome and you will enjoy each and everyone of them.
If you are looking for a true romance book and more...then Ending a Broken Journeyis your book. You will learn about heartbreak, trust, friendship, loyalty and true love. I wish I could tell you about my favorite scene of the book, but that would totally ruin the surprise, but I can say you will love the ending and Drew. You might find him to be one of the most romantic men you can ever read about!
Ending a Broken Journey
I had the great honor to read the ARC copy of this book and I will always be so grateful to Melissa L. Delgado for asking me to read this beautiful book. Melissa is beyond talented and her story is more then just a typical romance book. She has poetry through out the whole book and that was just beautiful. It gave the book so much more feeling, it was different and so moving. I also loved how the story was told by both POV's. Both POV's would think of something from the past that reminding them of what was happening in the present. I absolutely loved that. I really felt that made the book so special along with the poems.
You will fall in love with Drew. He is sweet, gorgeous, romantic and totally swoon worthy. You will adore Mackenzie, she is beautiful inside and out. Plus, we get a whole cast of characters that are awesome and you will enjoy each and everyone of them.
If you are looking for a true romance book and more...then Ending a Broken Journeyis your book. You will learn about heartbreak, trust, friendship, loyalty and true love. I wish I could tell you about my favorite scene of the book, but that would totally ruin the surprise, but I can say you will love the ending and Drew. You might find him to be one of the most romantic men you can ever read about!
Ending a Broken Journey
August 10, 2013
3.5 Stars
Melissa Delgado’s debut novel is well-written and there are no outrageous editing errors. Lately, I’m finding this fact to be a huge and pleasant surprise – and one that is very much appreciated. The long lost friends to lovers plot is intriguing and satisfying and, with the addition of the beautiful and emotional poetry throughout, there was a refreshing and captivating allure to it. MacKenzie or “Kennie,” the lead female, had a severe case of doubting her self-worth that irritated me beyond limits. Her whining and negativity absolutely wore me down. By far, the secondary cast carried the momentum throughout this one in my opinion. They cast some sunlight into an otherwise dreary and dismal setting. I liked this book but didn’t love it.
I will however continue with the series to get Jax’s story – his character was endearingly comical and who could help but fall a little bit in love with a tattooed playboy with a heart of gold.
Melissa Delgado’s debut novel is well-written and there are no outrageous editing errors. Lately, I’m finding this fact to be a huge and pleasant surprise – and one that is very much appreciated. The long lost friends to lovers plot is intriguing and satisfying and, with the addition of the beautiful and emotional poetry throughout, there was a refreshing and captivating allure to it. MacKenzie or “Kennie,” the lead female, had a severe case of doubting her self-worth that irritated me beyond limits. Her whining and negativity absolutely wore me down. By far, the secondary cast carried the momentum throughout this one in my opinion. They cast some sunlight into an otherwise dreary and dismal setting. I liked this book but didn’t love it.
I will however continue with the series to get Jax’s story – his character was endearingly comical and who could help but fall a little bit in love with a tattooed playboy with a heart of gold.
August 6, 2013
★★★★★ You Have To Love Yourself First Stars!!
WOW! What can I say, other than this book was amazing from start to finish. It has such a beautiful love story and tells a story of incredible personal growth and endurance of the human spirit. It's about how when life beats you down, you beat it right back and come through it a better, wiser person.
You can't let other people's betrayals mold and control YOUR life. And it told in such a touching and heartfelt way it will leave you thinking about the journey that you just went on while reading this book. I don't have adequate words to tell you what this book made me feel. And that is the perfect indication that the author did their job. I really have to spend some time on this review, so stay tuned...
WOW! What can I say, other than this book was amazing from start to finish. It has such a beautiful love story and tells a story of incredible personal growth and endurance of the human spirit. It's about how when life beats you down, you beat it right back and come through it a better, wiser person.
You can't let other people's betrayals mold and control YOUR life. And it told in such a touching and heartfelt way it will leave you thinking about the journey that you just went on while reading this book. I don't have adequate words to tell you what this book made me feel. And that is the perfect indication that the author did their job. I really have to spend some time on this review, so stay tuned...
November 16, 2014
Heart shattering and gut wrenching story that will definitely sweep you off your feet and keep you on your toes to the last page, Ending a Broken Journey is spectacular debut novel, that will leave you breathless. Fantastic mix of second chance romance story with journey of damaged woman who looks for closure, Melissa L. Delgados’s novel astonished me in the best way possible. Add to the mix great, heart clenching poems and I was sold.
This beautiful story follows Mackenzie, young woman who see only emptiness. Her true self started slowly fading away leaving only shell of girls he used to be. She’s barely holding on. Every day is like small step toward the end. Tragic relationship keeps hounting her, long after it ended.
”I, Mackenzie Alexa Tillson, see emptiness.
Emptiness and hatred.
Hatred for myself, hatred for those who betrayed me, hatred for being so naïve, and ultimately, hatred for the fact that I haven’t truly moved on from any of it.”
Despite the fact she has great family and friends, she can’t open up to them. She feels ashmed, used, broken.
The day Dean’s brothers come back to her life, after eleven years of absensce changes everything. Drew and Jax have special place in her heart. Jax’s her former best friend, while Drew is her teenage crush that she’s never forgotten.
Can they pick up the shattered pieces of girl they once knew and help her survive?
Drew’s and Mackenzie relationship is wonderful! It’s slowly building and you can literally feel who they are growing to love each other once more. I instantly fell in love with charming and sexy Drew.
As much as I loved Kennie, there were times she was a little bit overwhelming. Her willowing in self pity sometimes was to much to handle. In most situations I could understand her, but in few places I wanted to really shake her.
Overall, I immensely enjoyed reading Ending A Broken Journey it tugs on your emotions and the amazing poetry drives the story in another deep direction . It’s fantastic story that will leave your heart swollen and extremaly satisfied. This novel leave you with a wicked sweet feeling!
July 23, 2013
I was given the exciting privilege of reading an arc copy of this book. Thank you Melissa for this amazing opportunity.
Ending a broken Journey is an amazing debut novel with an even more amazing cast of characters. This book has it all. Love, heart break, friendship, and more importantly, three hot and sexy main characters. I mean, gah!!!!! You can't get enough of any of them.
Makenzie and Drew have been friends since childhood but family and life situations tear them apart. When Drew comes back what he finds breaks his heart. The Kennie he knew is no longer there. She is now a quiet and unhappy woman with secrets. She has been hurt so badly by a previous relationship that she just sort of exists. She feels that she isn't worth love or worth happiness for that matter. Drew Dean is determined to break through her walls and fix what is broken. Kennie has an amazing group of friends that include her two best girl friends, spunky and sassy Ade and Cass and her charming and handsome brother Kip. Drew and his brother Jax quickly become entwined in the group. This story is told by both Kennie and Drew's POV. The way it is written, it was very easy to follow and adds so much more depth to the story. From each characters point of view, we are given snippits from the past that led them to where they are today. It really is an emotional ride to follow Kennie's transformation in this book. She works so hard to fix herself from the inside out and let everyone close to her in.
Now I have to focus on the other characters. OMG Jax!!!!! I want more of every last tattooed inch of him. He is sarcastic, funny, cocky, and all around sexy as hell. He becomes a great friend to Kennie right away. They are able to pick up right where they left off years ago. I found myself looking for more interactions with him and can't wait to learn what secrets he has from his past.
Kip is the typical over protective brother to Kennie. He will do anything to protect her, even if it is to protect her from his best friend. I don't feel like I got to know him well enough in this book but hope there will be more of him to come from Melissa. I also hope that we will get to know Ade and Cass more personally in the upcoming book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book as a stand alone novel. I was a little nervous when I saw that Ending a Torn Past was coming in 2014. I was afraid I would get sucked into this story and have to wait to see how it ends. It was nice to not have a cliffhanger for a change. I can't wait to see what's next for our Journey characters and whats next from Melissa.
Ending a broken Journey is an amazing debut novel with an even more amazing cast of characters. This book has it all. Love, heart break, friendship, and more importantly, three hot and sexy main characters. I mean, gah!!!!! You can't get enough of any of them.
Makenzie and Drew have been friends since childhood but family and life situations tear them apart. When Drew comes back what he finds breaks his heart. The Kennie he knew is no longer there. She is now a quiet and unhappy woman with secrets. She has been hurt so badly by a previous relationship that she just sort of exists. She feels that she isn't worth love or worth happiness for that matter. Drew Dean is determined to break through her walls and fix what is broken. Kennie has an amazing group of friends that include her two best girl friends, spunky and sassy Ade and Cass and her charming and handsome brother Kip. Drew and his brother Jax quickly become entwined in the group. This story is told by both Kennie and Drew's POV. The way it is written, it was very easy to follow and adds so much more depth to the story. From each characters point of view, we are given snippits from the past that led them to where they are today. It really is an emotional ride to follow Kennie's transformation in this book. She works so hard to fix herself from the inside out and let everyone close to her in.
Now I have to focus on the other characters. OMG Jax!!!!! I want more of every last tattooed inch of him. He is sarcastic, funny, cocky, and all around sexy as hell. He becomes a great friend to Kennie right away. They are able to pick up right where they left off years ago. I found myself looking for more interactions with him and can't wait to learn what secrets he has from his past.
Kip is the typical over protective brother to Kennie. He will do anything to protect her, even if it is to protect her from his best friend. I don't feel like I got to know him well enough in this book but hope there will be more of him to come from Melissa. I also hope that we will get to know Ade and Cass more personally in the upcoming book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book as a stand alone novel. I was a little nervous when I saw that Ending a Torn Past was coming in 2014. I was afraid I would get sucked into this story and have to wait to see how it ends. It was nice to not have a cliffhanger for a change. I can't wait to see what's next for our Journey characters and whats next from Melissa.
August 5, 2013
I love Jax!
This book is so relatable to so many woman. 1 bad relationship leaves us wondering what we did wrong, why aren't we good enough... Mackenzie is in a daze, just barely surviving her last relationship. But it isn't until an old friend shows back up and makes her realize that having a chance at love is worth putting your heart out there again.
I loved Drew but Jax stole the show for me. Can't wait until his book!
Melissa is a new Indie author and Im already anticipating her next book!! Can't wait to see what's next from her!
This book is so relatable to so many woman. 1 bad relationship leaves us wondering what we did wrong, why aren't we good enough... Mackenzie is in a daze, just barely surviving her last relationship. But it isn't until an old friend shows back up and makes her realize that having a chance at love is worth putting your heart out there again.
I loved Drew but Jax stole the show for me. Can't wait until his book!
Melissa is a new Indie author and Im already anticipating her next book!! Can't wait to see what's next from her!
August 23, 2013
Absolutely loved this book. Drew is another BBF!
Where oh where to begin with this one. Melissa L. Delgado's debut novel, is absolutely amazing!!! I love, love, loved Mackenzie "Kennie" Tillson's story. Melissa hit this one out of the park. It is not very often that you come across an Authors first book, that is as good as Ending a Broken Journey. Melissa writes like a seasoned Author. I never judge/rate a book by the amount of mistakes found in its pages, and this one does not have many at all. I could tell from the very first chapter that it was extremely well written and edited. The story line was believable and flowed really well. Written from dual POV, which I am a sucker for. I love the transition from character to character, and Melissa does an amazing job with the transition. Melissa truly has a way with words, as you will see and read. There are several poems that are included within the pages of this book. They are all very deep and meaningful and lend great purpose to her story line.
Ending a Broken Journey is a story about betrayal, love, loss, heartache, hurt, anger, fear, fate and above all hope. Mackenzie "Kennie" Tillson has spent the past five years in an emotionally abusive relationship and when the ultimate act of betrayal falls upon her, she throws her fiance out. Even with the love and support of her family and close friends, she still feels like she has nothing to offer to anyone or herself for that matter.
”I, Mackenzie Alexa Tillson, see emptiness.
Emptiness and hatred.
Hatred for myself, hatred for those who betrayed me, hatred for being so naïve, and ultimately, hatred for the fact that I haven’t truly moved on from any of it.”
When a company merger brings Andrew "Drew" Dean back into her life, she does not know if she is ready to let her walls fall, for the one guy that she has truly loved since she was a young girl. What she doesn't know is that Drew, although older than her by a few years and her brothers best friend, has always had feelings for her.
When Drew gets his first look at Mackenzie after all these years, he cannot believe the beautiful woman that she has developed into. She is no longer the happy, vibrant tomboy, that used to follow him, his younger brother Jax and her brother Kip around. But he senses a hole/void in her life. Not knowing what it is that has happened in her past, Drew sets out to prove that all the lies that Kennie has believed to be true about herself are false.
"I know I've been gone for a while so I have a lot of time to make up for. Rest assured, it starts with getting to know the 'new, improved Kennie' you speak of."
“The way you see yourself, Kennie, is wrong. I know it’s wrong because when I see you, I see so much more.”
"Kennie, I want to make you feel wanted. For all of the times you doubted yourself, what you were capable of, how beautiful you are inside. I want these things for you because you deserve to feel all of it from someone who knows exactly what he's got."
He wants to make her a permanent fixture in his life. Until his past catches up with him, before he has a chance to come clean with Kennie. Driving her away from him again. Knowing he has to pull out all the stops to prove that he is the one for her, he does just that.
"Kennie, I love you. I'll always love you. You were made to be mine, you were created for me. Every time I look at you, I'm so thankful I didn't miss the happiness that only you have brought into my life. You're my everything, my first true love, my soul mate, my forever."
The supporting characters are awesome! Kip, her extremely protective older brother and Jax, who treats her as if she was his sister, is fiercely protective of her too. Her family is very loving and supportive too. And I love her two girlfriends, Ade and Cass are amazing!
I am so excited for this series to continue and can only see great things in Melissa's future! Awesome, Awesome 5 star debut novel!!!!! Don't walk, run to your kindle, laptop, phone, nook, whatever you read on and BUY IT!!!!!!!
Where oh where to begin with this one. Melissa L. Delgado's debut novel, is absolutely amazing!!! I love, love, loved Mackenzie "Kennie" Tillson's story. Melissa hit this one out of the park. It is not very often that you come across an Authors first book, that is as good as Ending a Broken Journey. Melissa writes like a seasoned Author. I never judge/rate a book by the amount of mistakes found in its pages, and this one does not have many at all. I could tell from the very first chapter that it was extremely well written and edited. The story line was believable and flowed really well. Written from dual POV, which I am a sucker for. I love the transition from character to character, and Melissa does an amazing job with the transition. Melissa truly has a way with words, as you will see and read. There are several poems that are included within the pages of this book. They are all very deep and meaningful and lend great purpose to her story line.
Ending a Broken Journey is a story about betrayal, love, loss, heartache, hurt, anger, fear, fate and above all hope. Mackenzie "Kennie" Tillson has spent the past five years in an emotionally abusive relationship and when the ultimate act of betrayal falls upon her, she throws her fiance out. Even with the love and support of her family and close friends, she still feels like she has nothing to offer to anyone or herself for that matter.
”I, Mackenzie Alexa Tillson, see emptiness.
Emptiness and hatred.
Hatred for myself, hatred for those who betrayed me, hatred for being so naïve, and ultimately, hatred for the fact that I haven’t truly moved on from any of it.”
When a company merger brings Andrew "Drew" Dean back into her life, she does not know if she is ready to let her walls fall, for the one guy that she has truly loved since she was a young girl. What she doesn't know is that Drew, although older than her by a few years and her brothers best friend, has always had feelings for her.
When Drew gets his first look at Mackenzie after all these years, he cannot believe the beautiful woman that she has developed into. She is no longer the happy, vibrant tomboy, that used to follow him, his younger brother Jax and her brother Kip around. But he senses a hole/void in her life. Not knowing what it is that has happened in her past, Drew sets out to prove that all the lies that Kennie has believed to be true about herself are false.
"I know I've been gone for a while so I have a lot of time to make up for. Rest assured, it starts with getting to know the 'new, improved Kennie' you speak of."
“The way you see yourself, Kennie, is wrong. I know it’s wrong because when I see you, I see so much more.”
"Kennie, I want to make you feel wanted. For all of the times you doubted yourself, what you were capable of, how beautiful you are inside. I want these things for you because you deserve to feel all of it from someone who knows exactly what he's got."
He wants to make her a permanent fixture in his life. Until his past catches up with him, before he has a chance to come clean with Kennie. Driving her away from him again. Knowing he has to pull out all the stops to prove that he is the one for her, he does just that.
"Kennie, I love you. I'll always love you. You were made to be mine, you were created for me. Every time I look at you, I'm so thankful I didn't miss the happiness that only you have brought into my life. You're my everything, my first true love, my soul mate, my forever."
The supporting characters are awesome! Kip, her extremely protective older brother and Jax, who treats her as if she was his sister, is fiercely protective of her too. Her family is very loving and supportive too. And I love her two girlfriends, Ade and Cass are amazing!
I am so excited for this series to continue and can only see great things in Melissa's future! Awesome, Awesome 5 star debut novel!!!!! Don't walk, run to your kindle, laptop, phone, nook, whatever you read on and BUY IT!!!!!!!
September 15, 2013
Five freaking stars!! I absolutely loved this!!!
.........
"Damaged. Empty. These two words would probably best describe me for the past year or so."
What a spectacular debut from Melissa L. Delgado! When I had read the book synopsis, I had already deemed it to be interesting but now after reading it I am speechless.
It was such a beautiful journey of of woman named Tess broken down by past experiences (and people) and learning to love herself and let love in.
"When I looked at myself, I no longer recognized who it was standing in front of me. The coldness in her eyes. The hardness in her stare. The hatred of her being."
We see glimpses throughout the book of her diary entries which are in the shape of a poem and I must say that they are breathtaking. Such beautiful depictions.
Normally, when I read stories, I have this and that to say regarding the plot, pacing, and the characters but I really have no criticisms whatsoever. Everything was perfect and well-written.
I loved the idea of childhood love blooming and being reciprocated on both sides. In the story, Mackenzie, or "Kennie" as Drew would call her, had always had a crush on her brother Kip's best friend Drew. What she doesn't know is that the feeling was always mutual but then Drew and his family abruptly move away and the two lose contact.
Years later, Drew returns back to his hometown with a vengeance to win the heart of Kennie and to figure out what has "broken" the girl that he loves.
.....
Side thoughts:
I totally called Drew's dirty little secret that he held from Kennie within the book! I just knew it!! It was so obvious to me from the beginning with all of the little clues here and there. You can't fool me!! Lol.
I'm now super looking forward to Jax Dean's (Drew's little brother) story and hope that he and Cass work out since I found it so funny how she was the one girl who was immune to his charms! Buahahahaaha.
As to will there be a Kip and Ade story? I really hope so!! They're so funny. I knew it from the beginning that there was something going on between them even with all their banter and bickering. It was just a form of attraction between the two in in which they blatantly denied over the years.
MY VERDICT:
So over all, a lovely, emotional, and heart warming read by Melissa L. Delgado. If you haven't read this yet then I highly suggest you should! You won't be disappointed.
"When I look at myself? I see my self worth, I surround myself with those who inspire me, Those who love me for me. And those who encourage me to just…be. When I look at myself, I see all of the reasons I will never let life pass me by, Ever again, I see all of the reasons, why I lost the battle, And now, see all of the reasons I came out on top, I see all of the reasons on why I won my war."
.........
"Damaged. Empty. These two words would probably best describe me for the past year or so."
What a spectacular debut from Melissa L. Delgado! When I had read the book synopsis, I had already deemed it to be interesting but now after reading it I am speechless.
It was such a beautiful journey of of woman named Tess broken down by past experiences (and people) and learning to love herself and let love in.
"When I looked at myself, I no longer recognized who it was standing in front of me. The coldness in her eyes. The hardness in her stare. The hatred of her being."
We see glimpses throughout the book of her diary entries which are in the shape of a poem and I must say that they are breathtaking. Such beautiful depictions.
Normally, when I read stories, I have this and that to say regarding the plot, pacing, and the characters but I really have no criticisms whatsoever. Everything was perfect and well-written.
I loved the idea of childhood love blooming and being reciprocated on both sides. In the story, Mackenzie, or "Kennie" as Drew would call her, had always had a crush on her brother Kip's best friend Drew. What she doesn't know is that the feeling was always mutual but then Drew and his family abruptly move away and the two lose contact.
Years later, Drew returns back to his hometown with a vengeance to win the heart of Kennie and to figure out what has "broken" the girl that he loves.
.....
Side thoughts:
I totally called Drew's dirty little secret that he held from Kennie within the book! I just knew it!! It was so obvious to me from the beginning with all of the little clues here and there. You can't fool me!! Lol.
I'm now super looking forward to Jax Dean's (Drew's little brother) story and hope that he and Cass work out since I found it so funny how she was the one girl who was immune to his charms! Buahahahaaha.
As to will there be a Kip and Ade story? I really hope so!! They're so funny. I knew it from the beginning that there was something going on between them even with all their banter and bickering. It was just a form of attraction between the two in in which they blatantly denied over the years.
MY VERDICT:
So over all, a lovely, emotional, and heart warming read by Melissa L. Delgado. If you haven't read this yet then I highly suggest you should! You won't be disappointed.
"When I look at myself? I see my self worth, I surround myself with those who inspire me, Those who love me for me. And those who encourage me to just…be. When I look at myself, I see all of the reasons I will never let life pass me by, Ever again, I see all of the reasons, why I lost the battle, And now, see all of the reasons I came out on top, I see all of the reasons on why I won my war."
August 1, 2013
3.5 Star Rating
Ending a Broken Journey is a great debut novel from Melissa Delgado and I look forward to her other stories in this series! I really wanted to rate this four stars and it totally would have been a four star read for me except, Ending a Broken Journey holds a huge pet peeve for me; I found it really hard to get past this as it took up about 60% of the story. My issue was not with Melissa's writing because she did a beautiful job with that. My concerns centered solely on the leading female, who in fact killed this book for me. Seriously, I loved the other 98% of the book, not to mention I adored the premise and characters. My love/hate relationship with this character knows no bounds. Kennie's character was just way too overwhelming, so much so that I almost felt suffocated with her negativity. I often thought of giving up but, here is where I tell you the same thing Kim told me, hang in there because the book does take on a wicked sweet feel to it; the hero and secondary characters will snag your attention keeping you engaged.
Mackenzie (aka Kennie) really threw me for a loop on this one. As I said earlier, I had a major love/hate relationship with her. I don't want to seem insensitive because I totally got why she was so down on herself, furthermore, I also understand what the effects of emotional and mental abuse can do to a person. However since it took her so long to open up and begin the healing process I found it very hard to connect with her character. The beginning of the story is very overwhelming, somewhat heavy, as we learn of Kennie's thoughts regarding her self-worth. In my humble opinion, I really wanted to see the healing process flow a bit sooner through her journey, starting the healing sooner could have softened the staggering negativity in her character, making Kennie easier to sympathize and relate to.
Where Kennie drove me nuts her co-characters helped balance that out with their fun witty banter and lovable personalities. The character development and chemistry between all of them was well written and often times intriguing (I even adored Drew and Kennie together, I just struggled with her personal growth). Drew, Jax, Kip, Cass and Ade really do own this story. I had so much fun with them. Especially Jax (broken tatted bad boys always seem to snag my attention though, I am so damn easy). So Melissa, please get us Jax soon!
Thanks you, Melissa L. Delgado, for providing me with an ARC of Ending a Broken Journey in exchange for my honest review.
Ending a Broken Journey is a great debut novel from Melissa Delgado and I look forward to her other stories in this series! I really wanted to rate this four stars and it totally would have been a four star read for me except, Ending a Broken Journey holds a huge pet peeve for me; I found it really hard to get past this as it took up about 60% of the story. My issue was not with Melissa's writing because she did a beautiful job with that. My concerns centered solely on the leading female, who in fact killed this book for me. Seriously, I loved the other 98% of the book, not to mention I adored the premise and characters. My love/hate relationship with this character knows no bounds. Kennie's character was just way too overwhelming, so much so that I almost felt suffocated with her negativity. I often thought of giving up but, here is where I tell you the same thing Kim told me, hang in there because the book does take on a wicked sweet feel to it; the hero and secondary characters will snag your attention keeping you engaged.
Mackenzie (aka Kennie) really threw me for a loop on this one. As I said earlier, I had a major love/hate relationship with her. I don't want to seem insensitive because I totally got why she was so down on herself, furthermore, I also understand what the effects of emotional and mental abuse can do to a person. However since it took her so long to open up and begin the healing process I found it very hard to connect with her character. The beginning of the story is very overwhelming, somewhat heavy, as we learn of Kennie's thoughts regarding her self-worth. In my humble opinion, I really wanted to see the healing process flow a bit sooner through her journey, starting the healing sooner could have softened the staggering negativity in her character, making Kennie easier to sympathize and relate to.
Where Kennie drove me nuts her co-characters helped balance that out with their fun witty banter and lovable personalities. The character development and chemistry between all of them was well written and often times intriguing (I even adored Drew and Kennie together, I just struggled with her personal growth). Drew, Jax, Kip, Cass and Ade really do own this story. I had so much fun with them. Especially Jax (broken tatted bad boys always seem to snag my attention though, I am so damn easy). So Melissa, please get us Jax soon!
Thanks you, Melissa L. Delgado, for providing me with an ARC of Ending a Broken Journey in exchange for my honest review.
August 7, 2013
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review. I cannot express how much I loved this debut novel by Melissa L. Delgado! She can not only write a great novel, she has some beautiful poetry in this book as well. I was moved on several occasions by the poetry and really feel that it sets it apart for most books out there. It’s truly amazing and Melissa has true talent in her writing ability. The story switches POV and past and present. I loved going on the journey with Mackenzie (Kennie) and Drew.
We start in the present with Kennie in her darkest days. She caught her live in boyfriend cheating and cannot bring herself out of the black hole that follows. She is just going through the motions of life and barely making it. Out with coffee with her friends, she runs into her childhood crush Drew who she hasn’t seen for the past 11 years. Drew was best friends with her older brother but was forced to move away while in high school with his family. Business has him moving back to his hometown and back into Kennie’s life.
When we are switching POV to Drew we learn that he has also had a crush on Kennie but her brother kept him from acting on it. Now they are older he wants to pursue a relationship with her. Even though Kennie feels unworthy of love, Drew still sees her as the beautiful girl he has always loved. When things look like they will work out for them, his past makes an appearance and crushes Kennie and any hope that her and Drew could have a future. Kennie is devastated as she already has trust issues since her previous relationship and she never thought Drew would hurt her in this way.
Can they work past Drew’s omission of his past or will true love win in the end? You will need to read to figure out. This book also had a great supporting cast. I absolutely loved Drew’s brother Jax and would love for him to have his own book. He is colorful, outspoken and hilarious and cannot wait to read more about him.
We start in the present with Kennie in her darkest days. She caught her live in boyfriend cheating and cannot bring herself out of the black hole that follows. She is just going through the motions of life and barely making it. Out with coffee with her friends, she runs into her childhood crush Drew who she hasn’t seen for the past 11 years. Drew was best friends with her older brother but was forced to move away while in high school with his family. Business has him moving back to his hometown and back into Kennie’s life.
When we are switching POV to Drew we learn that he has also had a crush on Kennie but her brother kept him from acting on it. Now they are older he wants to pursue a relationship with her. Even though Kennie feels unworthy of love, Drew still sees her as the beautiful girl he has always loved. When things look like they will work out for them, his past makes an appearance and crushes Kennie and any hope that her and Drew could have a future. Kennie is devastated as she already has trust issues since her previous relationship and she never thought Drew would hurt her in this way.
Can they work past Drew’s omission of his past or will true love win in the end? You will need to read to figure out. This book also had a great supporting cast. I absolutely loved Drew’s brother Jax and would love for him to have his own book. He is colorful, outspoken and hilarious and cannot wait to read more about him.
August 27, 2013
This book was simply amazing! I was gifted this book by a very good friend and I am so happy that she did.
This book is about MacKenzie's journey to finding herself after a devastating breakup. When childhood friends Drew and Jax Dean move back into her life, she feels like she is on the spiral, out of control. Drew has always been the love of her life. The only problem is that he moved away before she was able to tell him. So in the 11 years since she last saw him, a lot has changed including her heart. Drew always had a thing for "Kennie". Although she was his best friend's baby sister, he always knew that she could be the one. After moving away and having lost touch with her, he moved on but really never let go. As the two of them reconnect Kennie has to learn to heal and let her heart open up. Drew has secrets that he thinks will make Kennie go running and he's not willing to let her go again.
Ending A Broken Dream is beautifully written. The character development is fanominal and you feel as if you have been apart of their group of friends forever. The Dean Brothers and Kip (McKenzie's Brother) as smokin' hot! I highly recommend this book to everyone! I can not wait for the Jax and Kip's stories (hopefully coming soon!)
This book is about MacKenzie's journey to finding herself after a devastating breakup. When childhood friends Drew and Jax Dean move back into her life, she feels like she is on the spiral, out of control. Drew has always been the love of her life. The only problem is that he moved away before she was able to tell him. So in the 11 years since she last saw him, a lot has changed including her heart. Drew always had a thing for "Kennie". Although she was his best friend's baby sister, he always knew that she could be the one. After moving away and having lost touch with her, he moved on but really never let go. As the two of them reconnect Kennie has to learn to heal and let her heart open up. Drew has secrets that he thinks will make Kennie go running and he's not willing to let her go again.
Ending A Broken Dream is beautifully written. The character development is fanominal and you feel as if you have been apart of their group of friends forever. The Dean Brothers and Kip (McKenzie's Brother) as smokin' hot! I highly recommend this book to everyone! I can not wait for the Jax and Kip's stories (hopefully coming soon!)
August 5, 2013
Ending a Broken Journey is Melissa's debut novel. I have never read a book like it. Beautifully written, with poetry throughout. I couldn't put it down. It's emotional, funny and heartwarming.
Mackenzie is existing not truely living. Her past haunts her in more ways than one. Her family and friends try so hard to bring her back to her old self, the happy outgoing Mackenzie. No one knows what happened to make her such a empty shell.
Then Drew and Jax come back for good.
Drew and Jax are her brother Kip best friends. Mackenzie first lets Jax in a little bit, which makes Drew jealous when he has no reason to be. Drew wants to be the one who brings the old her back. He makes her promises. Drew is so loveable and caring, Mackenzie starts to feel the good things again. He's the one she's wanted all along. Does time spent apart matter? Does love conquer all?
This is one book I won't forget. Inspiring and beautiful. EaJB is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
"Life may have won the battle but that I-I will win the war"
Mackenzie is existing not truely living. Her past haunts her in more ways than one. Her family and friends try so hard to bring her back to her old self, the happy outgoing Mackenzie. No one knows what happened to make her such a empty shell.
Then Drew and Jax come back for good.
Drew and Jax are her brother Kip best friends. Mackenzie first lets Jax in a little bit, which makes Drew jealous when he has no reason to be. Drew wants to be the one who brings the old her back. He makes her promises. Drew is so loveable and caring, Mackenzie starts to feel the good things again. He's the one she's wanted all along. Does time spent apart matter? Does love conquer all?
This is one book I won't forget. Inspiring and beautiful. EaJB is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
"Life may have won the battle but that I-I will win the war"
August 25, 2013
I enjoyed this book but it was a book that I could put down. I can't put my finger on what it was about this book that just didn't capture my whole attention. Maybe it was because it was like so many of the other books I have read through the years and just didn't have that "mesmerizing" factor.
I'm not disappointed after reading it thought - the book held many positive realizations in Kennie's life. She worked through self-degradation and in the end got her HEA. For that it made the book worth reading.
I'm not disappointed after reading it thought - the book held many positive realizations in Kennie's life. She worked through self-degradation and in the end got her HEA. For that it made the book worth reading.
July 27, 2013
What can I say Drew won my heart!!! This book has it all love, heartbreak, betrayal!! I laugh I swoon and I cried!! Such a beautiful love story of your first love and how once you give your heart away you truly never get it back. Mackenzie has endure so much my heart broke for her and Drew is soo swoon worthy!!! There are no words to express how much I love their story love Drew forever ❤❤❤
July 25, 2013
Just Freaking AUH-Mazing!!! Review to come!!
August 19, 2013
What an incredible journey Mackenzie had. It is the journey of a broken young woman in both heart and spirit. It is her finding herself and learning to love again. You will not be disappointed with this book. I am so glad to see that there are more stories coming,because I thoroughly enjoyed Drew and Mackenzie' s story. Thanks, Melissa!!!!
Want to read
July 13, 2013Sounds right up my alley!
August 7, 2013
How do you go on when the person you see reflected in the mirror is not really you? No, this person you see reflected back at you is empty, broken, a person you loathe and that disgusts you. So much so, that you alienate those closest to you in hopes that they can't see just how damaged you really are.
Mackenzie Tillson is this broken, self-hating, shell of the person she used to be. Not able to let those around her help to unload this hatred she has for herself. She has a great support system from her family and friends, but she is too embarrassed and prideful to let anyone in.
"Do you know what I see when I look in the mirror?" She continues on without an answer, "I see hollowness where there should be a sparkle, I see fragmented pieces where there should be a whole person, and I see a lost little girl where there should be a found and mature woman. When I look at myself? I see hatred for the woman I've become; a woman who nobody can love because she doesn't know how to love herself."
That is until her childhood friends, the Dean Brothers- Drew and Jax, return to Florida after 11 years away. They make "Kennie", as Drew calls her, question what she sees in the mirror, maybe she can leave the baggage behind and become the person she used to be. Can she fully give her heart after it being crushed once making her the person she is today? Will secrets tear them apart when they are finally revealed?
This book is not a roller-coaster ride. This book, like the title says, is a journey; a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. They story is told in alternating POV's (who doesn't love alternating POV's?--I know I do!)which gives you so much insight into the characters. To add to the greatness that is this book the main character, Kennie, writes poems that she uses to express her feelings because she is unable to open up to others about her broken past. The poems are beautifully written and add so much to the story. There are flashbacks that give a lot of perspective into the events that happened that ultimately resulted in how the characters are today.
I can't say enough how much this story inspired and entertained me. Melissa did such an amazing job with the dialogue between the characters. Kennie and her best friends Ade and Cass are exactly how my friends and I talk and interact with each other. Kip, Kennie's older brother, is the big brother I never had but always wished I did. He is her protector, always there for her whenever she needs him (and whenever she doesn't need him too-- Oh Kip! LOL!). Jax provides such a great comedic relief to this story. He is undoubtedly a scene stealer. You are going to LOVE him. My heart is torn between which brother I want to keep for myself. Drew and Jax are both so yummy! Drew is strong, confident, sexy, sweet talking, and just plain dreamy. Jax, well... who doesn't love a smart, funny, tattooed up guy with a mysterious past?
Pleased to meet you, sugar. I'm not interested in anything long term, long waks on the beach, or talking about feelings. But, I'm definitely interested in you, and have a feeling you just might be able to change that about me." He winks at her.
See what I mean? People are going to eat him up! Rest assured he WILL be getting his own book, so you are going to have A LOT more of yummy Jax coming soon. But in the meantime, can I have them both? I know I being greedy, but sue me!
I have the privilege to call Melissa L. Delgado my best friend. So...yes I may be a little bias, but this book really speaks for itself. It pulls at your heart-strings and makes you go on the journey right along Kennie. This journey is not an easy one, especially when someone has made your self-esteem and self-worth so low that it seems almost impossible to get back to the person you used to be. But when ACCEPTANCE happens...it's such a beautiful thing. Watch out world, Melissa is coming and she is taking this world by a storm. Her writing is enrapturing, powerful, and real. You feel the depth of the characters without feeling completely overwhelmed by their issues. Her characters are loveable, sarcastically funny, and so very entertaining.
Andrew Trey Dean is on top of my book boyfriend list. He is absolutely swoon-worthy! I found myself with a goofy smile on my face whenever he came into the story.
"I see you and the insecurities you carry around." I put my index finger against her lips to assure her I'm not done, "and I want you to know, whatever did happen to you? Whatever delusions that last asshole put in your head, the one who helped to make you think so poorly of yourself, are wrong. The way you see yourself, Kennie, is wrong." I pause and lightly shake my head. "I know it's wrong, because I-whenI see you, I see so much more."
I mean come on! Isn't that swoon-worthy?
*Look for Ending a Torn Past-Jax's story expected to be released early 2014. Ohhh, one last thing...although this will be a series, all the books can STANDALONE!!! No dreaded cliff-hangers here. BUT it is best to read in order so you will have a better understanding into the characters. I can't wait for Jax's book. I will be hounding her like the rest of you. :)
Mackenzie Tillson is this broken, self-hating, shell of the person she used to be. Not able to let those around her help to unload this hatred she has for herself. She has a great support system from her family and friends, but she is too embarrassed and prideful to let anyone in.
"Do you know what I see when I look in the mirror?" She continues on without an answer, "I see hollowness where there should be a sparkle, I see fragmented pieces where there should be a whole person, and I see a lost little girl where there should be a found and mature woman. When I look at myself? I see hatred for the woman I've become; a woman who nobody can love because she doesn't know how to love herself."
That is until her childhood friends, the Dean Brothers- Drew and Jax, return to Florida after 11 years away. They make "Kennie", as Drew calls her, question what she sees in the mirror, maybe she can leave the baggage behind and become the person she used to be. Can she fully give her heart after it being crushed once making her the person she is today? Will secrets tear them apart when they are finally revealed?
This book is not a roller-coaster ride. This book, like the title says, is a journey; a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. They story is told in alternating POV's (who doesn't love alternating POV's?--I know I do!)which gives you so much insight into the characters. To add to the greatness that is this book the main character, Kennie, writes poems that she uses to express her feelings because she is unable to open up to others about her broken past. The poems are beautifully written and add so much to the story. There are flashbacks that give a lot of perspective into the events that happened that ultimately resulted in how the characters are today.
I can't say enough how much this story inspired and entertained me. Melissa did such an amazing job with the dialogue between the characters. Kennie and her best friends Ade and Cass are exactly how my friends and I talk and interact with each other. Kip, Kennie's older brother, is the big brother I never had but always wished I did. He is her protector, always there for her whenever she needs him (and whenever she doesn't need him too-- Oh Kip! LOL!). Jax provides such a great comedic relief to this story. He is undoubtedly a scene stealer. You are going to LOVE him. My heart is torn between which brother I want to keep for myself. Drew and Jax are both so yummy! Drew is strong, confident, sexy, sweet talking, and just plain dreamy. Jax, well... who doesn't love a smart, funny, tattooed up guy with a mysterious past?
Pleased to meet you, sugar. I'm not interested in anything long term, long waks on the beach, or talking about feelings. But, I'm definitely interested in you, and have a feeling you just might be able to change that about me." He winks at her.
See what I mean? People are going to eat him up! Rest assured he WILL be getting his own book, so you are going to have A LOT more of yummy Jax coming soon. But in the meantime, can I have them both? I know I being greedy, but sue me!
I have the privilege to call Melissa L. Delgado my best friend. So...yes I may be a little bias, but this book really speaks for itself. It pulls at your heart-strings and makes you go on the journey right along Kennie. This journey is not an easy one, especially when someone has made your self-esteem and self-worth so low that it seems almost impossible to get back to the person you used to be. But when ACCEPTANCE happens...it's such a beautiful thing. Watch out world, Melissa is coming and she is taking this world by a storm. Her writing is enrapturing, powerful, and real. You feel the depth of the characters without feeling completely overwhelmed by their issues. Her characters are loveable, sarcastically funny, and so very entertaining.
Andrew Trey Dean is on top of my book boyfriend list. He is absolutely swoon-worthy! I found myself with a goofy smile on my face whenever he came into the story.
"I see you and the insecurities you carry around." I put my index finger against her lips to assure her I'm not done, "and I want you to know, whatever did happen to you? Whatever delusions that last asshole put in your head, the one who helped to make you think so poorly of yourself, are wrong. The way you see yourself, Kennie, is wrong." I pause and lightly shake my head. "I know it's wrong, because I-whenI see you, I see so much more."
I mean come on! Isn't that swoon-worthy?
*Look for Ending a Torn Past-Jax's story expected to be released early 2014. Ohhh, one last thing...although this will be a series, all the books can STANDALONE!!! No dreaded cliff-hangers here. BUT it is best to read in order so you will have a better understanding into the characters. I can't wait for Jax's book. I will be hounding her like the rest of you. :)
July 30, 2013
Everyday I tell myself I am going to do better. I'm going to hate myself a little less, that today is a brand new day and I will move past all of this--really move past all of this. So far? I've had no such luck. Damaged. Empty. These two words would probably best describe me for the past year or so...
When people you trusted have betrayed you and made you feel unworthy, how do you get yourself back? Mackenzie has been struggling with self esteem and self loathing and not letting any of her friends and family in to help her. They do not even know what really happened to her and has hidden her pain as much as possible.
When her childhood friends/teenage crush return to town after over ten years, they challenge her to get out of her comfort zone and try to pull the old "Kennie" back out. Drew was her older brother's best friend and the boy she always loved, but she had no idea that he was harboring feelings for her as well. And Jax is his younger brother and was always a great easy going friend to her. But when they were torn apart by distance, they went on with their lives.
I loved Drew. He was charming, sweet, charismatic, and determined. He is ready to get to know Mackenzie again, but realizes quickly that she is not the same. He finally sees his chance to have a real relationship with "Kennie" and he is going for it. Drew seems perfect for her. He really knows what makes her tick and has deep feelings. He is invested in making it work, but he is also hiding some issues from his own past. His younger goofy brother Jax quickly worms his way back into a comfortable friendship with Kennie. He is easy to talk to and still makes her feel safe.
Drew and Jax, along with Kennie's older brother, Kip, and her friends Ade and Cass are determined to help their friend find herself and happiness again. I loved the interactions between Ade and Kip as they were sarcastic, fiery, and funny. And also Jax and Cass have an immediate reaction to each other. He was attracted to her and she resisted as much as possible. They all sparred, sparked, and oozed sexual tension.
Drew and Kennie were kind of a mess. He knows what he wants and worries he is not worthy due to past mistakes. She knows what she wants, but does not think she deserves it. There is angst, avoidance, ups and downs, some WTF? bad decision moments, sweet times, and rocky times. Drew's heart was in the right place and he really wanted to help heal her, but he did not always make good choices. And for that matter, neither did Kennie. She was really held back by her insecurities, fears, and self doubt. It was easier for Mackenzie to express herself in her poetry at times than in actual conversations.
"So you see, girls, you may think Drew would be good for me, but how can anyone be good for me when I haven't figured out how to be good for myself?"
"Kennie, I want to make you feel wanted. For all of the times you doubted yourself, what you were capable of, how beautiful you are inside and out. Mainly, I want these things for you because you deserve to feel all of it from someone who knows exactly what he’s got."
The secrets of Mackenzie's betrayal and of Drew's past slowly unfold throughout the book so they are a mystery for most of the story. Their pasts are revealed gradually as the book progresses and then they have to deal with the repercussions.
When faced with hard truths and lies, can Mackenzie learn to forgive herself and others in order to move on or will she just shut down again? Will a second chance at love heal her or completely destroy her?
I have to admit that this story started out a little bit slow for me. At first Mackenzie was really wallowing in self pity and it was hard for me to really like her. I actually kind of wanted to shake her. But I warmed up to her as she started to change and I began to like her. I loved all of the secondary characters as they were unique, outspoken, and fun. But you can tell they have underlying issues, especially Jax that will be explored in the next book Ending a Torn Past. I look forward to learning more about Kip as well as the series continues.
I like having both Mackenzie and Drew's points of view and they were clearly defined with name headers. I think that was really important to see the story from both sides. And even though I did enjoy the flashbacks and learning more about their younger years, at times it felt a little disjointed between present and the past. But the author says the final version will be more defined with both asterisks and italics for the flashbacks so that should make the transitions much smoother. And these flashbacks did add a depth and sweetness to the story and their relationship. This was an emotional story of second chances, love, and forgiveness. Even though this will be a series, thankfully there is a resolved ending and no ugly cliffhanger. The rest of the series will feature the other characters.
Thanks to Melissa L. Delgado for providing me with and ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
When people you trusted have betrayed you and made you feel unworthy, how do you get yourself back? Mackenzie has been struggling with self esteem and self loathing and not letting any of her friends and family in to help her. They do not even know what really happened to her and has hidden her pain as much as possible.
When her childhood friends/teenage crush return to town after over ten years, they challenge her to get out of her comfort zone and try to pull the old "Kennie" back out. Drew was her older brother's best friend and the boy she always loved, but she had no idea that he was harboring feelings for her as well. And Jax is his younger brother and was always a great easy going friend to her. But when they were torn apart by distance, they went on with their lives.
I loved Drew. He was charming, sweet, charismatic, and determined. He is ready to get to know Mackenzie again, but realizes quickly that she is not the same. He finally sees his chance to have a real relationship with "Kennie" and he is going for it. Drew seems perfect for her. He really knows what makes her tick and has deep feelings. He is invested in making it work, but he is also hiding some issues from his own past. His younger goofy brother Jax quickly worms his way back into a comfortable friendship with Kennie. He is easy to talk to and still makes her feel safe.
Drew and Jax, along with Kennie's older brother, Kip, and her friends Ade and Cass are determined to help their friend find herself and happiness again. I loved the interactions between Ade and Kip as they were sarcastic, fiery, and funny. And also Jax and Cass have an immediate reaction to each other. He was attracted to her and she resisted as much as possible. They all sparred, sparked, and oozed sexual tension.
Drew and Kennie were kind of a mess. He knows what he wants and worries he is not worthy due to past mistakes. She knows what she wants, but does not think she deserves it. There is angst, avoidance, ups and downs, some WTF? bad decision moments, sweet times, and rocky times. Drew's heart was in the right place and he really wanted to help heal her, but he did not always make good choices. And for that matter, neither did Kennie. She was really held back by her insecurities, fears, and self doubt. It was easier for Mackenzie to express herself in her poetry at times than in actual conversations.
"So you see, girls, you may think Drew would be good for me, but how can anyone be good for me when I haven't figured out how to be good for myself?"
"Kennie, I want to make you feel wanted. For all of the times you doubted yourself, what you were capable of, how beautiful you are inside and out. Mainly, I want these things for you because you deserve to feel all of it from someone who knows exactly what he’s got."
The secrets of Mackenzie's betrayal and of Drew's past slowly unfold throughout the book so they are a mystery for most of the story. Their pasts are revealed gradually as the book progresses and then they have to deal with the repercussions.
When faced with hard truths and lies, can Mackenzie learn to forgive herself and others in order to move on or will she just shut down again? Will a second chance at love heal her or completely destroy her?
I have to admit that this story started out a little bit slow for me. At first Mackenzie was really wallowing in self pity and it was hard for me to really like her. I actually kind of wanted to shake her. But I warmed up to her as she started to change and I began to like her. I loved all of the secondary characters as they were unique, outspoken, and fun. But you can tell they have underlying issues, especially Jax that will be explored in the next book Ending a Torn Past. I look forward to learning more about Kip as well as the series continues.
I like having both Mackenzie and Drew's points of view and they were clearly defined with name headers. I think that was really important to see the story from both sides. And even though I did enjoy the flashbacks and learning more about their younger years, at times it felt a little disjointed between present and the past. But the author says the final version will be more defined with both asterisks and italics for the flashbacks so that should make the transitions much smoother. And these flashbacks did add a depth and sweetness to the story and their relationship. This was an emotional story of second chances, love, and forgiveness. Even though this will be a series, thankfully there is a resolved ending and no ugly cliffhanger. The rest of the series will feature the other characters.
Thanks to Melissa L. Delgado for providing me with and ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
February 24, 2018
It was empty for me, just didn't feel it at all, the chemistry, turbulence, pain, anger, conflict, story. Just sorry.
July 20, 2013
4.25 stars!! Take the journey, it is well worth it.
Have you ever as a child ridden your bike with your friends up a hill and as you start ascending, you realize it is such a struggle and you think to yourself, I don't know if I can do it...I don't know if I can make it because the hill is so high it seems like an impossible feat? Doubt lingers.. But somewhere deep down inside you, you want to do it..there is a fear of the unknown yet the excitement and buildup of what awaits you at the top of that hill gets your blood pumping. You turn your head to look at your friends equally red faces as you all continue to climb, they see that look of doubt on your face, and you know in that moment that they are silently cheering you on. They know you can do it..they want you to experience what they will once you all reach that peak. They want you to live. So a light bulb goes on, an epiphany..you say to yourself...I CAN DO THIS.. so you reach within yourself to take a chance and pedal faster and harder, and then it happens..you round the top of that hill and as you start to descend, you JUST LET GO. Speed picks up, your arms are flailing in the air, your hair is whipping wildly, your stomach is fluttering in the best way possible and you are laughing so hard, you can be heard 2 blocks over. It is the most fun, exhiliarating feeling you've had in a long time..and it was So Worth It. You come to a stop at the bottom of the road surrounded by your friends as you all celebrate and high five eachother and ask..Who wants to go again?
Mackenzie's journey is much in the same. She starts out as a broken girl with little to no self esteem, just existing in the world and holding all of her pain inside. Her emotional walls are concrete and although she is surrounded by family and friends, she just can't seem to break free from the hold her past has on her. She is just staring at the hurdle that is that hill..that is until one friend and one boy crush (who happen to be brothers) from her childhood come back into her life. Drew and Jax Dean are back to stay and Drew who never forgot Mackenzie, makes it his mission to help get back the vibrant, happy 'Kennie' he used to know. Drew is going to take Kennie to the top of that hill and from there on her life will change with everyone important to her by her side.
There are so many things I loved about this book starting with the characters. Mackenzie, even though she is damaged, you love her and will cheer her on. Drew is 'the guy'..gorgeous and swoonworthy. Ladies get your fans ready b/c he is going to make you melt. Jax is Drew's younger brother and I just love him. He is 'that guy' that everyone wants to be around.The life of the party so to speak. He is hot and hilarious. Kip is the handsome and protective older brother to Mackenzie and then there are the fiesty and fun best girlfriends Ade and Cass. The conversations between this group of friends is off the charts entertaining. So enjoyable! It was also very refreshing to read a book that included strong family values. I appreciated that. It was as if the author weaved her personal love and importance of family friends and writing into this story.
We also get alternating POV's. Who doesn't love that?! We really get into Drew and Kennie's mind. We also get glimpses into the past which adds to the buildup and depth of the story.
Another treat? Poetry, yes you heard right. The author incorporates original, amazing poetry into the story and you will be inspired.
Overall this book has everything one can want from a story....You will experience every emotion including laughing, crying and swooning. The story is meaningful and moving and I highly recommend it...great read
*Melissa Delgado and I met about a year ago in a book group and I knew I liked her right off the bat. She is as positive and genuine as they come. Once I started noticing her reviews on Goodreads I was hooked onto her writing..but then came the poetry. This girl can write poetry..She inspires me. Now she has this book, her first book..and I am blown away... I think this is just the very beginning of her writing journey and I can't wait to see what's next.
Have you ever as a child ridden your bike with your friends up a hill and as you start ascending, you realize it is such a struggle and you think to yourself, I don't know if I can do it...I don't know if I can make it because the hill is so high it seems like an impossible feat? Doubt lingers.. But somewhere deep down inside you, you want to do it..there is a fear of the unknown yet the excitement and buildup of what awaits you at the top of that hill gets your blood pumping. You turn your head to look at your friends equally red faces as you all continue to climb, they see that look of doubt on your face, and you know in that moment that they are silently cheering you on. They know you can do it..they want you to experience what they will once you all reach that peak. They want you to live. So a light bulb goes on, an epiphany..you say to yourself...I CAN DO THIS.. so you reach within yourself to take a chance and pedal faster and harder, and then it happens..you round the top of that hill and as you start to descend, you JUST LET GO. Speed picks up, your arms are flailing in the air, your hair is whipping wildly, your stomach is fluttering in the best way possible and you are laughing so hard, you can be heard 2 blocks over. It is the most fun, exhiliarating feeling you've had in a long time..and it was So Worth It. You come to a stop at the bottom of the road surrounded by your friends as you all celebrate and high five eachother and ask..Who wants to go again?
Mackenzie's journey is much in the same. She starts out as a broken girl with little to no self esteem, just existing in the world and holding all of her pain inside. Her emotional walls are concrete and although she is surrounded by family and friends, she just can't seem to break free from the hold her past has on her. She is just staring at the hurdle that is that hill..that is until one friend and one boy crush (who happen to be brothers) from her childhood come back into her life. Drew and Jax Dean are back to stay and Drew who never forgot Mackenzie, makes it his mission to help get back the vibrant, happy 'Kennie' he used to know. Drew is going to take Kennie to the top of that hill and from there on her life will change with everyone important to her by her side.
There are so many things I loved about this book starting with the characters. Mackenzie, even though she is damaged, you love her and will cheer her on. Drew is 'the guy'..gorgeous and swoonworthy. Ladies get your fans ready b/c he is going to make you melt. Jax is Drew's younger brother and I just love him. He is 'that guy' that everyone wants to be around.The life of the party so to speak. He is hot and hilarious. Kip is the handsome and protective older brother to Mackenzie and then there are the fiesty and fun best girlfriends Ade and Cass. The conversations between this group of friends is off the charts entertaining. So enjoyable! It was also very refreshing to read a book that included strong family values. I appreciated that. It was as if the author weaved her personal love and importance of family friends and writing into this story.
We also get alternating POV's. Who doesn't love that?! We really get into Drew and Kennie's mind. We also get glimpses into the past which adds to the buildup and depth of the story.
Another treat? Poetry, yes you heard right. The author incorporates original, amazing poetry into the story and you will be inspired.
Overall this book has everything one can want from a story....You will experience every emotion including laughing, crying and swooning. The story is meaningful and moving and I highly recommend it...great read
*Melissa Delgado and I met about a year ago in a book group and I knew I liked her right off the bat. She is as positive and genuine as they come. Once I started noticing her reviews on Goodreads I was hooked onto her writing..but then came the poetry. This girl can write poetry..She inspires me. Now she has this book, her first book..and I am blown away... I think this is just the very beginning of her writing journey and I can't wait to see what's next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews