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Shattered #1
Shattered
When it rains it pours….
Hard-nosed and self-reliant Dallis O'Brien has had her fair share of devastation. Her father's tragic accident sparked what seemed like a domino effect of heartbreak and loss. Unable to shake the fear of enduring any more pain, she builds walls around her heart, hoping to heal on her own.
Dallis' road to recovery is disrupted when she meets Grayson Rivera, a tattooed, coffee shop owner who, by appearances alone, isn't her typical match. Stubborn and hesitant to let him in, Dallis finally succumbs to Grayson's persistence, where he challenges her to face her loss while also having the walls of her heart broken down.
With Grayson's assistance, Dallis must decide if she is willing to learn how to be weak in order to be strong.
Hard-nosed and self-reliant Dallis O'Brien has had her fair share of devastation. Her father's tragic accident sparked what seemed like a domino effect of heartbreak and loss. Unable to shake the fear of enduring any more pain, she builds walls around her heart, hoping to heal on her own.
Dallis' road to recovery is disrupted when she meets Grayson Rivera, a tattooed, coffee shop owner who, by appearances alone, isn't her typical match. Stubborn and hesitant to let him in, Dallis finally succumbs to Grayson's persistence, where he challenges her to face her loss while also having the walls of her heart broken down.
With Grayson's assistance, Dallis must decide if she is willing to learn how to be weak in order to be strong.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2013
8 people are currently reading
1648 people want to read
About the author
C.C. Brown
7 books601 followersJust a book reading, writing loving, mommy and USMC wife! :)
I love to write, even if it isn't what is conventional and makes everyone feel giddy inside. I usually pull from dreams, or ideas that just thrust themselves into my head. I have what some would describe as a dry sense of humor, and I think its conveyed in my writing. I like to think I am a kick ass chick, but I can also be sensitive. I'm learning to grow thick skin, and in this field, it is definitely needed!
I won't put anything out that I am not absolutely proud of, but like E.L. James said, "I can't own people's reactions to it." Thanks for reading my work... I do appreciate it!
I love to write, even if it isn't what is conventional and makes everyone feel giddy inside. I usually pull from dreams, or ideas that just thrust themselves into my head. I have what some would describe as a dry sense of humor, and I think its conveyed in my writing. I like to think I am a kick ass chick, but I can also be sensitive. I'm learning to grow thick skin, and in this field, it is definitely needed!
I won't put anything out that I am not absolutely proud of, but like E.L. James said, "I can't own people's reactions to it." Thanks for reading my work... I do appreciate it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
June 17, 2013
I really enjoyed this book and I will confess that CC Brown had me ugly crying before I’d even reached the 10% mark!! Dallis suffers two heavy losses in close succession and she shuts down and locks away all that grief and sorrow and doesn’t allow herself to feel. She’s excellent at compartmentalising but she’s lost the ability to love, to grieve, to feel anything. Everything that is Dallis is locked away inside a hardened shell and she is determined never to allow it to see the light of day again. She never wants to allow herself to love and experience that sense of all-consuming loss again.
And along comes Grayson Rivera and just how SEXY is that name? Barista boy, coffee shop owner and manager and such a swoon worthy hero. He’s covered in ink and has the most beautiful blue eyes that Dallis can see herself getting lost in. He’s thoughtful, outgoing, funny, affectionate, compassionate, very very sexy and, like Dallis, is no stranger to loss either. He’s incredibly attracted to her and sparks fly between them when they come into close contact and he recognises in her all the suffering that he himself has endured and knows that he has to break down her walls if they are ever to have a chance.
This was such a beautifully paced novel. For me, to really enjoy an emotional story like this, I need to feel everything with the characters and CC Brown does this beautifully. The characters were given the time to digest, feel and respond to everything that was said and done and I felt it all with them. Nothing was rushed, there was no constant ‘he said, she said’ – I really feel that this book is a perfect example of the ‘show don’t tell’ principle and it really needed to be.
It’s a heart wrenching story of one woman’s incredible pain and loss and the right man coming along at the right time and recognising that pain and knowing what needs to be done and it’s such a tear jerker as, slowly, Grayson forces Dallis to face up to and deal with all the emotions that she’s so rigidly locked away. He teaches her to open up, face her demons and give herself 100% to Grayson. He makes it clear all along that he really likes her but he wants all of her and half of her is locked away and closed off behind an imaginary wall. Dallis is a lucky girl to find a guy like Grayson just when she needed him most.
I really empathised with Dallis and warmed to her despite her overwhelming pessimism and loved the way that Grayson awakens something in her that had been lying dormant for far too long. He’s telling her some cold hard truths that she’s determined not to be ready to admit to but he works his magic and this is a fantastic story of emotional healing. Keep the Kleenex handy.
4 stars
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May 19, 2013
review to come ......
ARC coming :)
ARC coming :)
June 15, 2013
This book had me tearing up in the beginning. The main character Dallis goes through tragic losses and is having a hard time grieving. Also add the douchie boyfriend Colby she has to deal with and you have one very unhappy girl. She and Colby go through an inevitable break up. I was so happy when she got rid of him. Then there's Grayson the hot, tattooed barista boy who I can only imagine as Adam Levine. Yup he's that yummy!!! Grayson is exactly what Dallis needed in her life and he helps her through her painful journey.
May 27, 2013
C.C. Brown brings us a beautiful story about learning how to live again when tragedy strikes, not once but twice. Shattered is a story that will touch your heart, pull at your emotions, and have you falling in love with the characters.
Dallis O’Brien is a beautiful young red head who finds herself shattered after tragedy strikes her life more than once in such a short amount of time. She builds a wall around her heart and becomes void of any and all emotions as a defense mechanism to save her from getting hurt. She feels like the mask she is wearing is working for her but to her surprise she is not as good at hiding her troubles as she thinks she is. After ending her relationship with her stuck up, ego driven boyfriend she feels like she start over and move forward. But soon realizes that she can’t move forward without facing and accepting the tragedies of her past.
Grayson Rivera aka “Barista Boy” oh yum yum yum! He is sweet, passionate, kind, loving, tattooed, and hot as Haitis and he has his eye on Dallis. He will stop at nothing to help Dallis move forward in her life while embracing her past tragedies and not just simply bury them. He wants Dallis but he wants all of her and until she comes to terms with things that have happened to her that she still refuses to acknowledge he can’t truly be happy. He wants to help her, fix her, love her, make her happy, and he will stop at nothing to do that.
When I started Shattered I knew it was going to have a little bit of heartache and hopefully a lot of love and laughter and I got everything I was hoping for. In the beginning I did a little bit of this…
GIFSoup
I was so excited that Dallis decided to stop trying to hide her feelings for Grayson and go for it. To finally let her hair down and feel again. To open her heart up to another person and let Grayson in, let him in to love her and show her what it means to love another person. The chemistry between Grayson and Dallis was like….
GIFSoup
He wanted Dallis but he wanted ALL of her and he knew she had to let go of her past in order to move on with their future. He made my heart swoon and my body tingle. When Grayson and Dallis finally did this…
GIFSoup
I couldn’t help myself because it made me feel like this…
GIFSoup
Overall C.C. Brown told a beautiful story about a girl who locked all her feelings inside after suffering through a few tragic incidences and about a patient man who wants nothing more than to release all the sorrow and pain that she bottles inside her and make her whole again.
Dallis O’Brien is a beautiful young red head who finds herself shattered after tragedy strikes her life more than once in such a short amount of time. She builds a wall around her heart and becomes void of any and all emotions as a defense mechanism to save her from getting hurt. She feels like the mask she is wearing is working for her but to her surprise she is not as good at hiding her troubles as she thinks she is. After ending her relationship with her stuck up, ego driven boyfriend she feels like she start over and move forward. But soon realizes that she can’t move forward without facing and accepting the tragedies of her past.
Grayson Rivera aka “Barista Boy” oh yum yum yum! He is sweet, passionate, kind, loving, tattooed, and hot as Haitis and he has his eye on Dallis. He will stop at nothing to help Dallis move forward in her life while embracing her past tragedies and not just simply bury them. He wants Dallis but he wants all of her and until she comes to terms with things that have happened to her that she still refuses to acknowledge he can’t truly be happy. He wants to help her, fix her, love her, make her happy, and he will stop at nothing to do that.
When I started Shattered I knew it was going to have a little bit of heartache and hopefully a lot of love and laughter and I got everything I was hoping for. In the beginning I did a little bit of this…
GIFSoup
I was so excited that Dallis decided to stop trying to hide her feelings for Grayson and go for it. To finally let her hair down and feel again. To open her heart up to another person and let Grayson in, let him in to love her and show her what it means to love another person. The chemistry between Grayson and Dallis was like….
GIFSoup
He wanted Dallis but he wanted ALL of her and he knew she had to let go of her past in order to move on with their future. He made my heart swoon and my body tingle. When Grayson and Dallis finally did this…
GIFSoup
I couldn’t help myself because it made me feel like this…
GIFSoup
Overall C.C. Brown told a beautiful story about a girl who locked all her feelings inside after suffering through a few tragic incidences and about a patient man who wants nothing more than to release all the sorrow and pain that she bottles inside her and make her whole again.
May 27, 2013
C.C. Brown brings us a beautiful story about learning how to live again when tragedy strikes, not once but twice. Shattered is a story that will touch your heart, pull at your emotions, and have you falling in love with the characters.
Dallis O’Brien is a beautiful young red head who finds herself shattered after tragedy strikes her life more than once in such a short amount of time. She builds a wall around her heart and becomes void of any and all emotions as a defense mechanism to save her from getting hurt. She feels like the mask she is wearing is working for her but to her surprise she is not as good at hiding her troubles as she thinks she is. After ending her relationship with her stuck up, ego driven boyfriend she feels like she start over and move forward. But soon realizes that she can’t move forward without facing and accepting the tragedies of her past.
Grayson Rivera aka “Barista Boy” oh yum yum yum! He is sweet, passionate, kind, loving, tattooed, and hot as Haitis and he has his eye on Dallis. He will stop at nothing to help Dallis move forward in her life while embracing her past tragedies and not just simply bury them. He wants Dallis but he wants all of her and until she comes to terms with things that have happened to her that she still refuses to acknowledge he can’t truly be happy. He wants to help her, fix her, love her, make her happy, and he will stop at nothing to do that.
When I started Shattered I knew it was going to have a little bit of heartache and hopefully a lot of love and laughter and I got everything I was hoping for. In the beginning I did a little bit of this…
GIFSoup
I was so excited that Dallis decided to stop trying to hide her feelings for Grayson and go for it. To finally let her hair down and feel again. To open her heart up to another person and let Grayson in, let him in to love her and show her what it means to love another person. The chemistry between Grayson and Dallis was like….
GIFSoup
He wanted Dallis but he wanted ALL of her and he knew she had to let go of her past in order to move on with their future. He made my heart swoon and my body tingle. When Grayson and Dallis finally did this…
GIFSoup
I couldn’t help myself because it made me feel like this…
GIFSoup
Overall C.C. Brown told a beautiful story about a girl who locked all her feelings inside after suffering through a few tragic incidences and about a patient man who wants nothing more than to release all the sorrow and pain that she bottles inside her and make her whole again.
Dallis O’Brien is a beautiful young red head who finds herself shattered after tragedy strikes her life more than once in such a short amount of time. She builds a wall around her heart and becomes void of any and all emotions as a defense mechanism to save her from getting hurt. She feels like the mask she is wearing is working for her but to her surprise she is not as good at hiding her troubles as she thinks she is. After ending her relationship with her stuck up, ego driven boyfriend she feels like she start over and move forward. But soon realizes that she can’t move forward without facing and accepting the tragedies of her past.
Grayson Rivera aka “Barista Boy” oh yum yum yum! He is sweet, passionate, kind, loving, tattooed, and hot as Haitis and he has his eye on Dallis. He will stop at nothing to help Dallis move forward in her life while embracing her past tragedies and not just simply bury them. He wants Dallis but he wants all of her and until she comes to terms with things that have happened to her that she still refuses to acknowledge he can’t truly be happy. He wants to help her, fix her, love her, make her happy, and he will stop at nothing to do that.
When I started Shattered I knew it was going to have a little bit of heartache and hopefully a lot of love and laughter and I got everything I was hoping for. In the beginning I did a little bit of this…
GIFSoup
I was so excited that Dallis decided to stop trying to hide her feelings for Grayson and go for it. To finally let her hair down and feel again. To open her heart up to another person and let Grayson in, let him in to love her and show her what it means to love another person. The chemistry between Grayson and Dallis was like….
GIFSoup
He wanted Dallis but he wanted ALL of her and he knew she had to let go of her past in order to move on with their future. He made my heart swoon and my body tingle. When Grayson and Dallis finally did this…
GIFSoup
I couldn’t help myself because it made me feel like this…
GIFSoup
Overall C.C. Brown told a beautiful story about a girl who locked all her feelings inside after suffering through a few tragic incidences and about a patient man who wants nothing more than to release all the sorrow and pain that she bottles inside her and make her whole again.
June 4, 2013
I was given an ARC by the author for an honest review
I really don't even know where to start with this one. Shattered is brilliant, full of emotion, and just....perfect. To date I have loved every word that C.C. Brown has placed on a page, and Shattered does not disappoint.
*le sigh*
Dallis
I love this hard headed, cranky bitch. I do. She really has every right to be this way, though. Losing so much in such a short time would turn anyone into a somewhat calloused individual. Although she had her love Colby, he just wasn't what she needed. And Dallis definitely did not need his egotistical ways, he really annoyed me. Money and material things DO NOT fix the condition of someone's heart. Period. End of story. No matter how hard he tried, he fell short.
Dallis needed something more...
Grayson...Move over "Knight in shining Armor" Hellllloooo Tatted up Coffee Boy!
At first glance... "tattooed bad boy" But beautiful in every way possible. If there were any book boy I would want to come to life, it would be Grayson. Sweet, smart, sexy and has a clue! He saw into Dallis like no one could, he saw into her more than she saw into herself.
I'm not a reviewer that gives too much on the story away, well because I want you to experience for yourself. Trust me when I say I'm so particular about my reads, and this one is a TOP one indeed. So, add this bad boy to your TBR! You don't want to miss out!
I really don't even know where to start with this one. Shattered is brilliant, full of emotion, and just....perfect. To date I have loved every word that C.C. Brown has placed on a page, and Shattered does not disappoint.
*le sigh*
Dallis
I love this hard headed, cranky bitch. I do. She really has every right to be this way, though. Losing so much in such a short time would turn anyone into a somewhat calloused individual. Although she had her love Colby, he just wasn't what she needed. And Dallis definitely did not need his egotistical ways, he really annoyed me. Money and material things DO NOT fix the condition of someone's heart. Period. End of story. No matter how hard he tried, he fell short.
Dallis needed something more...
Grayson...Move over "Knight in shining Armor" Hellllloooo Tatted up Coffee Boy!
At first glance... "tattooed bad boy" But beautiful in every way possible. If there were any book boy I would want to come to life, it would be Grayson. Sweet, smart, sexy and has a clue! He saw into Dallis like no one could, he saw into her more than she saw into herself.
I'm not a reviewer that gives too much on the story away, well because I want you to experience for yourself. Trust me when I say I'm so particular about my reads, and this one is a TOP one indeed. So, add this bad boy to your TBR! You don't want to miss out!
June 24, 2013
At first I didn't know who I liked or who I hated~ first I was loving Colby and wondering why Dallis was being such a bitch then it all became clear. It was sad seeing Dallis go through such loss and knowing all that she was doing was not helping her in any way. When Grayson walks into her life Dallis can't deny the "Spark" they have but she fights it tooth and nail. Learning they have more in common that she could have imaged he slowly breaks down her walls and helps her live again. That doesn't mean they ride off into the sunset because Dallis' past creeps up on her - or what she thought was her past. A few hot sex scenes- nothing to raunchy or graphic. Great ending.
Quotes:
"Okay, stay that way, but I'll tell you this. If you keep shitting around, you're going to lose something really good that's staring you in the face. And he literally stares you in the face."
"when your heart craves something, it's a real son of a bitch to try and keep it from getting what it wants."
June 13, 2013
This story had me crying and heartbroken for both Dallis and Grayson. It was an emotional roller coaster that had you cheering and then screaming at the characters. C.C. did a wonderful job.
Dallis has felt a lot of loss in her life. She chooses to build walls around her heart to save herself from feeling that way again. She has a chance meeting with Grayson and from there her life changes.
Grayson is my type of man!!! He is soo yummy and so sweet. He knows what Dallis needs and shows her how to get there.
This story was amazing and C.C. is an amazing writer to make the reader feel all of the characters emotions right along with them.
Dallis has felt a lot of loss in her life. She chooses to build walls around her heart to save herself from feeling that way again. She has a chance meeting with Grayson and from there her life changes.
Grayson is my type of man!!! He is soo yummy and so sweet. He knows what Dallis needs and shows her how to get there.
This story was amazing and C.C. is an amazing writer to make the reader feel all of the characters emotions right along with them.
June 9, 2013
First of all i would like to thank C.C. Brown for the privilege of reading this ARC! Many many thank you's! After all my heartache going through the characters emotions with Dallis, Colby and Greyson (I swear it was like riding a roller coaster!!!) I give this book 4.5 stars! I want to give everyone a fair opportunity to read it without giving any of the story away but i would like to say; after reading this I will never assume I know what someone is going through and judge them so fast. Wow, did this book step on my toes and show me a thing of two! Absolutely fantastic book! It's a wonderful read and I am positive you will love it too!!!!!
June 16, 2013
So unexpected! I loved the hospital scene. I was so excited to see her character grow and become some one worthy of a healthy & mature relationship. I think we all need a Miranda in our lives. and Mr. Rivera sounds beyond yummy and like an amazing guy!
June 23, 2013
BLOG TOUR STOP!!! SEE COMPLETE SPOILER-FREE POST HERE: http://heabookshelf.blogspot.com/2013...
~*~
"Shattered" is an emotional book that takes us through the journey of healing a broken soul... Dallis.
Dallis lost her father unexpectedly during her college years. The fact that he was taken from her in such a tragic and unfair way, devastated her. A high school friend, if you can call him that, Colby, helped her through this very tough time. Which is when they developed feelings for each other and started dating. Fast forward to three years later, they are still together, yet something is very much missing. Where Colby can see them getting married, Dallis can't. Yet another tragedy hits Dallis right in the face.. causing her even more pain and for the walls around her heart to really build up.
Her already strained relationship ends up falling completely apart (this is not a spoiler, I promise you). I know a lot of people probably will hate Colby. I mean, yes he's arrogant and at times a real ass, but I also felt that Dallis had this "it's my way or the high way attitude" with him that brought out his 'bad side'. I don't know.. I just.. *sigh* .. I kinda felt bad for him too. And you wanna know something else?? I strongly disliked Dallis through out the first 20% more or less.. Yes!! there!! I said it!!! I know she was going through something horrible.. yes.. so I really tried to not dislike her.. I swear I did.. but man! She was one stubborn girl! I felt like Colby was trying to make her happy, although yes I'll say it again, I know he was an arrogant ass at times, but Dallis was just over it.. so anything he did, even if it wasn't the smartest thing, he did with good intentions and her reaction??.. it would just blow things up..
I know Dallis was more of a shell than a real person after the second tragedy.. and I don't blame her really.. but she chose to ignore her sadness, making the walls around her heart even stronger. She was just emotionally broken. So, in a way, I do understand her attitude. I'm just happy we got to meet the sexy barista boy ..!!! Enter Grayson.
hmm.. what can I say about Grayson other than he's just incredibly HOT, yummy, romantic, confident, patient, and just... perfect!!!! OH! and he has tattoos!!! Kill me now please!!! I LOVED him since he first appeared in the book.. and even more so along the way. I promise you'll definitely swoon over Grayson!
Having gone through the same experience, Grayson knew what Dallis was doing, or rather, not doing. In a way, he gently forced her to face reality and helped her begin to mend her broken heart.
I think Grayson was my favorite part of the book.. He was just so damn dreamy..!! The perfect mix of gentle yet rough.. YUM! He definitely brought life into Dallis' heart and soul.
Overall this was a very good book with a great ending. If you're in the mood for an emotional book with a 'light plot' (no angst), this is the book for you.
~*~
"It's a ticking time bomb, and when it explodes, it will take every bit of you with it."
"Shattered" is an emotional book that takes us through the journey of healing a broken soul... Dallis.
Dallis lost her father unexpectedly during her college years. The fact that he was taken from her in such a tragic and unfair way, devastated her. A high school friend, if you can call him that, Colby, helped her through this very tough time. Which is when they developed feelings for each other and started dating. Fast forward to three years later, they are still together, yet something is very much missing. Where Colby can see them getting married, Dallis can't. Yet another tragedy hits Dallis right in the face.. causing her even more pain and for the walls around her heart to really build up.
Her already strained relationship ends up falling completely apart (this is not a spoiler, I promise you). I know a lot of people probably will hate Colby. I mean, yes he's arrogant and at times a real ass, but I also felt that Dallis had this "it's my way or the high way attitude" with him that brought out his 'bad side'. I don't know.. I just.. *sigh* .. I kinda felt bad for him too. And you wanna know something else?? I strongly disliked Dallis through out the first 20% more or less.. Yes!! there!! I said it!!! I know she was going through something horrible.. yes.. so I really tried to not dislike her.. I swear I did.. but man! She was one stubborn girl! I felt like Colby was trying to make her happy, although yes I'll say it again, I know he was an arrogant ass at times, but Dallis was just over it.. so anything he did, even if it wasn't the smartest thing, he did with good intentions and her reaction??.. it would just blow things up..
I know Dallis was more of a shell than a real person after the second tragedy.. and I don't blame her really.. but she chose to ignore her sadness, making the walls around her heart even stronger. She was just emotionally broken. So, in a way, I do understand her attitude. I'm just happy we got to meet the sexy barista boy ..!!! Enter Grayson.
"These damn boundaries... they're another part of the problem. How can you open up to someone else with imaginary lines drawn in the sand?"
hmm.. what can I say about Grayson other than he's just incredibly HOT, yummy, romantic, confident, patient, and just... perfect!!!! OH! and he has tattoos!!! Kill me now please!!! I LOVED him since he first appeared in the book.. and even more so along the way. I promise you'll definitely swoon over Grayson!
".. the only way you can damage me is through the heart and that's not happening."
"I'm do damn thankful for everything that's happened to me. It's brought me to you."
Having gone through the same experience, Grayson knew what Dallis was doing, or rather, not doing. In a way, he gently forced her to face reality and helped her begin to mend her broken heart.
"You think that hiding from this that you'll be okay, but I know you won't. I need you - all of you."
"I love you Dallis. I love you in a way that I thought I would never love again. But I know that I need one hundred percent of you, and until you face this and open up about your true feelings, there is a part of you that is missing."
I think Grayson was my favorite part of the book.. He was just so damn dreamy..!! The perfect mix of gentle yet rough.. YUM! He definitely brought life into Dallis' heart and soul.
Overall this was a very good book with a great ending. If you're in the mood for an emotional book with a 'light plot' (no angst), this is the book for you.
"In a way, I could feel the tiny specs of my shattered heart beginning to fuse back together..."
June 18, 2013
FOR MORE REVIEWS LIKE THIS ONE, CHECK OUT MY BLOG ~ BLAME IT ON THE RAIN REVIEWS
An amazing story about love, loss and moving forward!
Following her mothers death, Dallis struggles to move forward with her life, and continue the way things were before. However, with a boyfriend who is desperate to move forward in their relationship and marry her, she slowly begins to realise that they don’t want the same things so works to move on without him. Determined to work on herself and not let anyone in, Dallis isn’t looking for another relationship when Grayson walks in to her life, but with his trusting ways, and his unwavering confidence, she soon finds herself opening up to him in a way she never has with anyone else.
How did this happen? Where were my guards? They were broken down by his persistance. Broken down by his genuine nature. Broken down by his love…
Dallis was such a great, strong willed character and I loved that although she had been with Colby for such a long time, and it was almost expected, she didn’t back down and say yes to his proposals. Following her mothers death she seems to check out a little, which is to be expected, but this causes her to unknowingly block others out as she is afraid to get hurt again. Enter Grayson….
*Sigh* Grayson, oh yummy, yummy Grayson. He was exactly what I wanted in a book boyfriend ~ handsome, confident (but not in a big headed way), trustworthy, funny, lighthearted, he was exactly what Dallis needed in her life at the time. Pushing his way in to her affections, he is determined to gain her trust and refuses to have anything less than 100% of her. He was such an amazing, genuine guy, and having been though loss himself, he understood exactly what Dallis was going through and feeling, but unlike her it was something he had dealt with, and moved forward from, and he was determined to help her to do the same.
“I love you Dallis. I love you in a way that I thought I would never love again. But I know that I need one hundred percent of you, and until you face this and open up about your true feelings, there is a part of you that is missing.”
The relationship between Dallis and Grayson was pretty perfect. Although I didn’t really feel any angst between them in the book, and there was little to no conflict between them, it didn’t feel like it was needed as it was as much about him helping her to move on as it was about their relationship.
Overall I thought this book was a nice refreshing read for those who are looking for a break from the usual angst filled dramas. It had a nice solid storyline which had an emotional aspect to it and the pull of a developing relationship. I really liked how Dallis and Grayson interacted together, and would like to read more of their story, or maybe even Colby’s story, as although he seemed to wise up a little at the end of the book, it would be nice for him to find someone to put him in his place.
An amazing story about love, loss and moving forward!
Following her mothers death, Dallis struggles to move forward with her life, and continue the way things were before. However, with a boyfriend who is desperate to move forward in their relationship and marry her, she slowly begins to realise that they don’t want the same things so works to move on without him. Determined to work on herself and not let anyone in, Dallis isn’t looking for another relationship when Grayson walks in to her life, but with his trusting ways, and his unwavering confidence, she soon finds herself opening up to him in a way she never has with anyone else.
How did this happen? Where were my guards? They were broken down by his persistance. Broken down by his genuine nature. Broken down by his love…
Dallis was such a great, strong willed character and I loved that although she had been with Colby for such a long time, and it was almost expected, she didn’t back down and say yes to his proposals. Following her mothers death she seems to check out a little, which is to be expected, but this causes her to unknowingly block others out as she is afraid to get hurt again. Enter Grayson….
*Sigh* Grayson, oh yummy, yummy Grayson. He was exactly what I wanted in a book boyfriend ~ handsome, confident (but not in a big headed way), trustworthy, funny, lighthearted, he was exactly what Dallis needed in her life at the time. Pushing his way in to her affections, he is determined to gain her trust and refuses to have anything less than 100% of her. He was such an amazing, genuine guy, and having been though loss himself, he understood exactly what Dallis was going through and feeling, but unlike her it was something he had dealt with, and moved forward from, and he was determined to help her to do the same.
“I love you Dallis. I love you in a way that I thought I would never love again. But I know that I need one hundred percent of you, and until you face this and open up about your true feelings, there is a part of you that is missing.”
The relationship between Dallis and Grayson was pretty perfect. Although I didn’t really feel any angst between them in the book, and there was little to no conflict between them, it didn’t feel like it was needed as it was as much about him helping her to move on as it was about their relationship.
Overall I thought this book was a nice refreshing read for those who are looking for a break from the usual angst filled dramas. It had a nice solid storyline which had an emotional aspect to it and the pull of a developing relationship. I really liked how Dallis and Grayson interacted together, and would like to read more of their story, or maybe even Colby’s story, as although he seemed to wise up a little at the end of the book, it would be nice for him to find someone to put him in his place.
June 24, 2013
This is a book about a broken young woman. She was shattered by the loss of loved ones and even lost part of herself. She was in a long term relationship with Colby, but she could not seem to give him what he needed. They seemed dysfunctional and wanted different things out of life. And it just ends up being another loss for her. She did not even realize how broken she really was until Grayson came into her life. I loved everything about Grayson. He was the tattooed coffee shop owner that appeared on a very bad night and just kept showing up. And he ended up worming his way in.
Grayson was thoughtful, patient, demanding, but caring. He pushed and challenged her, but in healthy ways.
Dallis had a long road back to finding herself and opening up. But it was a journey that she really needed to face and take on. And Grayson was the perfect guide. In the beginning, it was kind of hard to like Dallis. She was very strong willed, stubborn, and resistant. She was closed off, lacked inititative in personal relationships, and was scared of getting hurt. I felt like her best friend Miranda wanting to kick Dallis in the rear and tell her to give it a try with Grayson. But she needed lots of encouragement.
Holding onto the anger of losing what I thought was everything in my life had held me captive in a way that I was unaware of. I was holding an internal grudge and reducing myself to living with imaginary lines and bricks walls, in hopes that I could shield myself from ever feeling that degree of hurt again. I didn't want to live with self-restraint any longer. I wanted to be Dallis again, and learning to feel again--good, bad, or indifferent--was the only way I was going to get back to being me.
Together they found support, understanding. passion, and acceptance. They really were a perfect fit. Physically they were totally compatible, but emotionally Grayson was definitely far ahead. But Dallis took baby steps along the way and showed personal growth and started to become more of the person she used to be.
Grayson unlocked a piece of a dark cloud that had embedded itself inside of me for far too long.
"I want you to open up, Dallis...You think by hiding from this that you'll be olay, but I know you won't. I need you--all of you."
I loved her feisty friend Miranda and her boyfriend Sean, and his friends/co-workers as they added more fun and support to this couple's lives.
This was a story of breaking down walls, letting go, finding yourself, and moving on. It was not only about loving another person, but also about loving yourself. It had a lot of sadness, but there was humor, hope, and happiness mixed in as well.
Thanks to CC Brown for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
Grayson was thoughtful, patient, demanding, but caring. He pushed and challenged her, but in healthy ways.
Dallis had a long road back to finding herself and opening up. But it was a journey that she really needed to face and take on. And Grayson was the perfect guide. In the beginning, it was kind of hard to like Dallis. She was very strong willed, stubborn, and resistant. She was closed off, lacked inititative in personal relationships, and was scared of getting hurt. I felt like her best friend Miranda wanting to kick Dallis in the rear and tell her to give it a try with Grayson. But she needed lots of encouragement.
Holding onto the anger of losing what I thought was everything in my life had held me captive in a way that I was unaware of. I was holding an internal grudge and reducing myself to living with imaginary lines and bricks walls, in hopes that I could shield myself from ever feeling that degree of hurt again. I didn't want to live with self-restraint any longer. I wanted to be Dallis again, and learning to feel again--good, bad, or indifferent--was the only way I was going to get back to being me.
Together they found support, understanding. passion, and acceptance. They really were a perfect fit. Physically they were totally compatible, but emotionally Grayson was definitely far ahead. But Dallis took baby steps along the way and showed personal growth and started to become more of the person she used to be.
Grayson unlocked a piece of a dark cloud that had embedded itself inside of me for far too long.
"I want you to open up, Dallis...You think by hiding from this that you'll be olay, but I know you won't. I need you--all of you."
I loved her feisty friend Miranda and her boyfriend Sean, and his friends/co-workers as they added more fun and support to this couple's lives.
This was a story of breaking down walls, letting go, finding yourself, and moving on. It was not only about loving another person, but also about loving yourself. It had a lot of sadness, but there was humor, hope, and happiness mixed in as well.
Thanks to CC Brown for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Will be posted at Reviews by Tammy and Kim.
June 23, 2013
This book blew me away! I wasn't sure about reading it, but one day I decided to take a chance on it and I'm so glad that I did! I originally saw the Cover Reveal on Facebook for Shattered and that is what made me want to read it! The cover is beautiful and I really wanted to read the story behind it! Shattered was an amazing story about a girl coming to terms with things that had happened in her life and about her breaking free from the shell that she had created around herself to protect herself from getting hurt and to not show how she was really feeling! I was crying at this book from 6% onwards! It was so emotional! It hit me hard when I wasn't really expecting it too and I felt my heart-breaking while reading it! The plot of this book was about so much more than someone finding love and about a couple trying to move on! It was about someone growing and about a couple supporting each other as they both go through a tough time and about them teaching each other how to live again! I thought that the plot was absolutely amazing! I can't fault it at all! I also enjoyed the twists that the author put in the book as they were so unexpected and added so much to the book! The characters were also absolutely amazing! I really admired the two main characters as they were both broken people, but all it took was for them to find the right person to make them strong again! Dallis was the main character of this book and I loved her! I felt so sorry for her for what she has been through and what she went through during this book, but she was strong and she powered on, even if she did need someone to help her! I thought that she made amazing progress during this book with her life and I loved that I connected with her the whole way through this book, as I thought while reading it that this was definitely essential and it helped me understand her so much better! Grayson was Dallis' saviour! He brought her out of her shell and he showed her that there is so much more to life, even after you have been shattered! Grayson had been through quite a lot as well and he needed support from Dallis just as much as she needed support from him and together the two of them managed to save each other and by the end of the book they were both former shadows of themselves! I'm so happy that they're going to be other books for other characters who were in this book as I really enjoyed the other characters and I'm really looking forward to reading their stories! As I said the cover originally drew me to this book! It is stunning and suits the book so much! The title of the book also suits it perfectly as well!
August 10, 2013
Source: eARC for Honest Review by Author
Finding out this had a tattooed hero was enough for me to want to read this story. When I first started to read it I was waiting forever for this mysterious tattooed hottie to make an appearance and was so glad when it finally happened.
The lead in felt a bit long but I know it was to build up Dallis's despair and hollowness from all her loss and heartship as well as her staying in a relationship because she feels it helps her when she is needy and not seeing what it truly was but a relationship of comfort, compliancy and need but not out of love.
Now finally enter...Grayson the light at the end of her dark tunnel. He was lean, smart, tattooed and with gorgeous capturing eyes that made it hard for Dallis to turn away.
I liked the two of them and I loved the concept of this book at times I didn't quite feel how dark Dallis was portrayed to be, but I did feel the connection and love of Dallis and Grayson.
This book was about fate, second chances, friendship, being true to yourself, love and happiness.
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Finding out this had a tattooed hero was enough for me to want to read this story. When I first started to read it I was waiting forever for this mysterious tattooed hottie to make an appearance and was so glad when it finally happened.
The lead in felt a bit long but I know it was to build up Dallis's despair and hollowness from all her loss and heartship as well as her staying in a relationship because she feels it helps her when she is needy and not seeing what it truly was but a relationship of comfort, compliancy and need but not out of love.
Now finally enter...Grayson the light at the end of her dark tunnel. He was lean, smart, tattooed and with gorgeous capturing eyes that made it hard for Dallis to turn away.
I liked the two of them and I loved the concept of this book at times I didn't quite feel how dark Dallis was portrayed to be, but I did feel the connection and love of Dallis and Grayson.
This book was about fate, second chances, friendship, being true to yourself, love and happiness.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
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June 18, 2013
*ARC provided by author for an honest review*
Rating – 4 Stars
Cover – 4 Stars
Steam Factor – 3.5 stars
Ending – HEA YAY!! No cliffhanger!
I gotta be honest she had me at the word tattoos...lol I love a man with tattoos and a sexy, sweet, patient one is even better YUMMMMM!! So I had to read this book and I was so glad that I did. It didn't disappoint. Grayson was amazing and so much more than I hoped for. He was sexy, sweet, romantic and did I mention tattooed..lol But I am getting carried away on the sexy "Barista Boy" and there is so much more to this story.
This book was full of tragedy, heartbreak, sadness, being shattered and slowly putting the pieces back together!! It was also full of sweetness, caring, romance, hope & chemistry!! It was chock full of all sorts of emotions that gripped you by the heart and held on to the very end.
Dallis was completely broken after a tragedy devastates her. She builds up a shield around her heart and keeps everyone at arms length to keep from getting hurt again. She thinks she has everyone fouled but Grayson sees through to the facade.
While Dallis tries to move forward and put herself back together Grayson is there to help pick up the pieces. He wants to fix her and won't let anything stand in his way.
The best thing about this book though was the Happy Ever After YAY!! I was so excited that this book ended on a good note with no damn cliffhanger that I might of danced a little when I was done (shhh don't tell..lol). It was a great book with a great ending and I will be reading more from C.C. Brown!!
Rating – 4 Stars
Cover – 4 Stars
Steam Factor – 3.5 stars
Ending – HEA YAY!! No cliffhanger!
I gotta be honest she had me at the word tattoos...lol I love a man with tattoos and a sexy, sweet, patient one is even better YUMMMMM!! So I had to read this book and I was so glad that I did. It didn't disappoint. Grayson was amazing and so much more than I hoped for. He was sexy, sweet, romantic and did I mention tattooed..lol But I am getting carried away on the sexy "Barista Boy" and there is so much more to this story.
This book was full of tragedy, heartbreak, sadness, being shattered and slowly putting the pieces back together!! It was also full of sweetness, caring, romance, hope & chemistry!! It was chock full of all sorts of emotions that gripped you by the heart and held on to the very end.
Dallis was completely broken after a tragedy devastates her. She builds up a shield around her heart and keeps everyone at arms length to keep from getting hurt again. She thinks she has everyone fouled but Grayson sees through to the facade.
While Dallis tries to move forward and put herself back together Grayson is there to help pick up the pieces. He wants to fix her and won't let anything stand in his way.
The best thing about this book though was the Happy Ever After YAY!! I was so excited that this book ended on a good note with no damn cliffhanger that I might of danced a little when I was done (shhh don't tell..lol). It was a great book with a great ending and I will be reading more from C.C. Brown!!
June 19, 2013
What a beautiful heartfelt story Shattered be C.C. Brown was. I felt an instant connection to the main character. The emotions I was feeling while reading this felt very real. I was definitely hooked on this story from the first page.
Dallis Obrien has experienced some pretty unimaginable losses in her life. To cope she has put up some pretty high walls. She is just going through the motions until she can breathe again. When Grayson someone totally unexpected challenges her to face her fears. But now it's up to Dallis to see if she's ready to let go and live again.
What I loved the most about this book was the intensity of the emotions I could feel coming off the pages from the main character. Then Grayson's humongous caring heart. I mean he really cared about Dallis enough to help her wash her pain away. That is something that a lot of relationships lack in books. I was so pleased how the other was able to convey that in this story. Although Dallis came across as fragile and broken, the only reason is because all the loss she experienced. So what we concur is that there is more to who this women and who she truly is.
You can definitely expect to feel all kinds of emotions while reading this story. There is a lot of strength in these characters. They are definitely fighters and stubborn at the same time. You will want to learn their stories. It is a true story of one young woman's journey to healing with the love of one man who believes that there is more to this women and what she keeps locked away in her heart. This is a book that I would recommend with out a doubt. You may be left emotionally raw in a sense, but it is so worth the ride.
Dallis Obrien has experienced some pretty unimaginable losses in her life. To cope she has put up some pretty high walls. She is just going through the motions until she can breathe again. When Grayson someone totally unexpected challenges her to face her fears. But now it's up to Dallis to see if she's ready to let go and live again.
What I loved the most about this book was the intensity of the emotions I could feel coming off the pages from the main character. Then Grayson's humongous caring heart. I mean he really cared about Dallis enough to help her wash her pain away. That is something that a lot of relationships lack in books. I was so pleased how the other was able to convey that in this story. Although Dallis came across as fragile and broken, the only reason is because all the loss she experienced. So what we concur is that there is more to who this women and who she truly is.
You can definitely expect to feel all kinds of emotions while reading this story. There is a lot of strength in these characters. They are definitely fighters and stubborn at the same time. You will want to learn their stories. It is a true story of one young woman's journey to healing with the love of one man who believes that there is more to this women and what she keeps locked away in her heart. This is a book that I would recommend with out a doubt. You may be left emotionally raw in a sense, but it is so worth the ride.
August 4, 2013
This was an emotional read for me but that didn't stop me from loving this story. I can somewhat relate to Dallis and her life. She tragically lost part of her life and herself and shut herself out from the world and living. She thought she was dealing with it but in fact she wasn't. She had Colby, her boyfriend of 3 years, he was there for her and gave her support, he was her rock during that time. She knew what Colby was really like but was comfortable in the relationship and didn't let things with him bother her. It wasn't until after her most recent tragedy when she started seeing, really seeing him and his true colors. It was one night out with his friends when things went south. After a night out with his friends and his actions and words did things change and she couldn't do it anymore.
Here comes Grayson or known as "Brista Boy" to some, a tatted up, blue eyed angel. In my opinion Grayson couldn't have come soon enough and I quickly fell for him, but how can you not? He helped Dallis realize that she wasn't dealing with what life had thrown at her. The two of them had chemistry, sparks and feelings and after she finally gave up on being stubborn and pushing him away she finally started to let down her walls and started living.
C.C. Brown has written an amazing story of emotional heartache and overcoming life and hope and happiness. There is always a brightness and happiness on the other side if you are willing to let it in. Great story and a must read.
Here comes Grayson or known as "Brista Boy" to some, a tatted up, blue eyed angel. In my opinion Grayson couldn't have come soon enough and I quickly fell for him, but how can you not? He helped Dallis realize that she wasn't dealing with what life had thrown at her. The two of them had chemistry, sparks and feelings and after she finally gave up on being stubborn and pushing him away she finally started to let down her walls and started living.
C.C. Brown has written an amazing story of emotional heartache and overcoming life and hope and happiness. There is always a brightness and happiness on the other side if you are willing to let it in. Great story and a must read.
June 28, 2013
Five amazing stars, that says it all right there. There is hardly ever a book that I absolutely do not want to put down, but this one was it. Shattered follows Dallis, a young photographer starting at a tragic loss in her life. This girl is tough as nails, but also very kindhearted. She is with the wrong guy for half of the story and with one chance meeting, her world is flipped upside down with confusion. What she doesn't realize is this tattooed up charmer is her ticket to finally getting over her horrible past. Grayson seems like someone Dallis should avoid but there is an undeniable chemistry between the two, and once she opens up slightly to him, she realizes they have more in common than you would think. These common threads have Grayson pushing Dallis to finally mourn and heal her soul. Grayson says,
"But you're not alone, Dallis. I'm trying to show you that. I'm right here. I've been where you are. I want to help you get through this, but you've got to be willing to let me in."
Who wouldn't want this guy helping them heal?? C.C. Brown certainly brought all the characters to life for me and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Amazing book, and I look forward to any future work from Brown.
~Kelly
~Kelly
June 28, 2013
This book runs the gamut of emotions and I was so glad there wasn't a cliffhanger, I don't think I could have handled that.
First off I didn't really like Dallis, she seemed almost too bitchy at points. I realize that she had suffered quite a bit of loss, but was almost over the top in how she dealt with things. I stated to warm up to her a bit by the end of the book, but she still wasn't my favorite.
Dallis and Colby have been together for three years. They were more comfortable with each other rather than truly being in love-well from Dallis's point of view anyway. She just didn't have the strong feelings that Colby had and didn't envision the same future as him.
Once again Dallis is facing a setback and this time she runs into Grayson, a man that seems to have it all together. Greyson owns a little coffee shop and feels an instant attraction to Dallis after meeting her. He pursues her for a bit and realizes that she will be a tough nut to crack. Dallis has issues to get over and a past to close the door on to move forward.
I think Greyson is my favorite character in this book. Even with his admitted flaws, he is a good guy and tries to make the best of any situation. He is the best thing for Dallis even if she can't see it for herself.
Great book, well written and I loved the ending.
First off I didn't really like Dallis, she seemed almost too bitchy at points. I realize that she had suffered quite a bit of loss, but was almost over the top in how she dealt with things. I stated to warm up to her a bit by the end of the book, but she still wasn't my favorite.
Dallis and Colby have been together for three years. They were more comfortable with each other rather than truly being in love-well from Dallis's point of view anyway. She just didn't have the strong feelings that Colby had and didn't envision the same future as him.
Once again Dallis is facing a setback and this time she runs into Grayson, a man that seems to have it all together. Greyson owns a little coffee shop and feels an instant attraction to Dallis after meeting her. He pursues her for a bit and realizes that she will be a tough nut to crack. Dallis has issues to get over and a past to close the door on to move forward.
I think Greyson is my favorite character in this book. Even with his admitted flaws, he is a good guy and tries to make the best of any situation. He is the best thing for Dallis even if she can't see it for herself.
Great book, well written and I loved the ending.
June 19, 2013
I received an ARC copy of this book and i couldn't be more thrilled.
- he is a wonderful tattooed book boyf and this book is definitely one of my favourites. I can't wait to see what c.c writes next!
- he is a wonderful tattooed book boyf and this book is definitely one of my favourites. I can't wait to see what c.c writes next!
June 24, 2013
Wow! This one starts out with some serious heartbreak! Not only does Dallis have to deal with one tragedy in her life, she is handed one right at the beginning that is just as awful! My heart broke for her pain. Add to that her d-bag of a boyfriend, I wanted to reach through and give the girl a hug!
After Dallis’s latest tragedy, she begins to pull into herself and doesn’t truly allow herself to grieve. She has an amazing support system with her best friend but that’s not enough to really pull her out of her grief. Then she meets Grayson. Mmmm, Grayson aka Barista Boy, is quite lovely and has such a huge heart. I loved his sweet personality and how he pushes Dallis to let go and grieve.
There are lots of hot and steamy moments in this book along with the sweet and the pain. I loved the setting in Seattle and the supporting characters who added nicely to the story without taking over. This is a wonderful story of learning how to let go of what doesn’t work for you in relationships, in emotions, and how to move forward. Definitely one to read!
ARC provided by author for honest review.
Review originally posted on www.upallnightbookblog.com
After Dallis’s latest tragedy, she begins to pull into herself and doesn’t truly allow herself to grieve. She has an amazing support system with her best friend but that’s not enough to really pull her out of her grief. Then she meets Grayson. Mmmm, Grayson aka Barista Boy, is quite lovely and has such a huge heart. I loved his sweet personality and how he pushes Dallis to let go and grieve.
There are lots of hot and steamy moments in this book along with the sweet and the pain. I loved the setting in Seattle and the supporting characters who added nicely to the story without taking over. This is a wonderful story of learning how to let go of what doesn’t work for you in relationships, in emotions, and how to move forward. Definitely one to read!
ARC provided by author for honest review.
Review originally posted on www.upallnightbookblog.com
June 26, 2013
This book was something I didn't expect to fall into, considering that I had nothing personal I could relate to the main character, Dallis. I've never lost anyone important to me, and I find it hard to relate to the characters who have felt so much pain. Not only did I find myself hurting for her, I found myself cheering for Grayson and Miranda to bring her out of her shell. The one aspect of the book I disliked initially was the mixed characterization for Dallis. She continually referred to herself as boisterous and outgoing, but her actions showed otherwise. However, by the end of the book, you actually got to see that side of her more. Little by little she no longer just said it, she showed it. For me this was a solid 3.5 stars (goodreads needs to fix their rating system already!).
June 19, 2013
I really liked this book. It was well written to the point and YAY NO CRINGE MOMENTS, SERIOUSLY I hate cringe moments!
I'm loving this writer at the moment, have read all three of her books in two days and have been so content and happy reading them.
I loved her other two red flags a bit more than this, sex was hotter lol. This one loved but it felt a little flat in places I dunno I guess I like a little more drama. I am not a love triangle girl AT ALL but usually like a little more anx in my books. All in all I love C.C Brown, I'm really excited I stumbled upon her and would for sure recommend her to everyone I know :D
I'm loving this writer at the moment, have read all three of her books in two days and have been so content and happy reading them.
I loved her other two red flags a bit more than this, sex was hotter lol. This one loved but it felt a little flat in places I dunno I guess I like a little more drama. I am not a love triangle girl AT ALL but usually like a little more anx in my books. All in all I love C.C Brown, I'm really excited I stumbled upon her and would for sure recommend her to everyone I know :D
June 18, 2013
I absolutely love love LOVE this book! If you want a HEA then this is the book for you! I literally had a giddy little school girl smile on my face when I finished reading it! C.C. Brown is an awesome author in my opinion... After reading her Red Flags books I was so excited when I came across this one! It is definitely a MUST-READ!!!!
June 14, 2013
TWO WORDS:
LOVED IT!!!
LOVED IT!!!
June 17, 2013
This is such a great book, I absolutely loved it!! And I'm really looking forward to the spin-off books coming out!!
June 19, 2013
Very heart warming story! Loved Grayson! Loved the feel of the whole story. Anwsered all questions by the end as I was happy with the way it ended!
August 5, 2013
I really loved this beautiful, raw and very emotional story of two broken souls
finding their happily ever after.
finding their happily ever after.
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