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Winsor #1
Shattered Rose
When obsession and love blend, and darkness consumes the mind and spirit, is it even possible to recognize the light? Set in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, nineteen-year-old Avery Nichols embarks on a journey of love, loss and recognition that perfection is often an illusion. She gives all she has to the one man who cannot love her back, but still refuses let her go. Now another fights to give her everything she doesn’t believe she deserves. It is the beginning of her sophomore year at Winsor University, and Avery is determined that nothing will stop her momentum, not even the internal battle she has fought for four years. Forced to live on campus because of her alumni scholarship, Avery is thrilled when she is placed in the coveted University Apartments and is swept away by her roommate’s cousin, Jake, whose charm and charisma touches every part of her soul and shatters every piece of her heart. Broken and lost, Avery meets Parker, a man who not only offers her hope, but also teaches her to love in ways she never thought possible. Jake is complicated and damaged, fighting to find his way after the loss of his mother, and despite his every attempt to stop it, Avery gets behind his defenses and forces him to feel once again. He doesn’t want to love her, but can’t let her go. Parker is genuine, honest, and falls for Avery the moment he sees her. He wants nothing more than to love her, if she would only let him.
415 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2013
1977 people are currently reading
3954 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 461 reviews
March 8, 2017
HOLY
FLIPPING
POOP
you guys
YOU GUYS, THIS IS THE BEST THING I HAVE EVER READ.
So I was in the mood for some Christian romance and the previous books that I read on that genre were like really boring and preachy, but I can successfully say, that this book is nothing like that. Though it didn't really inform me much about the religion of Christianity, it did tell that the religion is simply about love and peace.
There seems to be so much hate on religion and God lately and in many YA books. From the books I've read, the church is always evil and tries to force everyone to follow God and blah blah blah. Just because a certain group of people go out and do something bad using religion as an excuse does not mean all the people that follow that certain religion are evil and have to be looked down upon. This goes for all religions and beliefs.
This book isn't really informative on teachings of Christianity, except for the obvious, which is believing in Jesus Christ and saving yourself for marriage. However, in the beginning of every chapter there was a prayer said, which I'm assuming Parker says (since he's the Christian guy.)
“Lord, we all fall and make mistakes. I pray she turns to You during those moments and knows that You are her wonderful counselor and prince of peace…”
The best thing about this book is that it isn't being preachy about Christianity. It simply shows how God loves his creations and peace and love is always the way to go. It's trying to show that Christianity isn't a religion about hate.
This book is much more than just religion. It's also about a girl struggling with her body and an eating disorder and a painfully annoying love triangle. le sigh.
"In the end, I had thrown up five times. Five times I had intentionally wrecked my body. Stuffing it to the point of capacity and then forcing myself to vomit."
"My eyes zeroed in on the scale. I shouldn’t get on. It would only depress me. But I did anyway and saw I had gained a pound. My throat tightened, constricting my air flow. How is that possible? I just weighed two days ago! Tears sprang to my eyes. I knew temptation was coming, and panicked sweat slid down my face. I wanted to escape; I wanted to get this weight off of me. I wanted to disappear. I got on the scale again—sure I had read it wrong the first time. I hadn’t."
"I had sat down for two Thanksgiving dinners and was leaving hungrier than before either of them. How anyone could eat under that kind of strain was beyond me."
"how much I ran, it was never enough. The tears were freely flowing now as I stepped in the shower, letting the steaming hot water run over me, praying it would sear off everything I hated about myself."
She struggles with accepting herself as well as who to choose - Parker: the sweet, caring, loving guy who always pushes her to do her best or Jake: the player who used her at first, but then keeps coming back for her.
I loved the ending and this book is just what everyone needs to read.
FLIPPING
POOP
you guys
YOU GUYS, THIS IS THE BEST THING I HAVE EVER READ.
So I was in the mood for some Christian romance and the previous books that I read on that genre were like really boring and preachy, but I can successfully say, that this book is nothing like that. Though it didn't really inform me much about the religion of Christianity, it did tell that the religion is simply about love and peace.
There seems to be so much hate on religion and God lately and in many YA books. From the books I've read, the church is always evil and tries to force everyone to follow God and blah blah blah. Just because a certain group of people go out and do something bad using religion as an excuse does not mean all the people that follow that certain religion are evil and have to be looked down upon. This goes for all religions and beliefs.
This book isn't really informative on teachings of Christianity, except for the obvious, which is believing in Jesus Christ and saving yourself for marriage. However, in the beginning of every chapter there was a prayer said, which I'm assuming Parker says (since he's the Christian guy.)
“Lord, we all fall and make mistakes. I pray she turns to You during those moments and knows that You are her wonderful counselor and prince of peace…”
The best thing about this book is that it isn't being preachy about Christianity. It simply shows how God loves his creations and peace and love is always the way to go. It's trying to show that Christianity isn't a religion about hate.
This book is much more than just religion. It's also about a girl struggling with her body and an eating disorder and a painfully annoying love triangle. le sigh.
"In the end, I had thrown up five times. Five times I had intentionally wrecked my body. Stuffing it to the point of capacity and then forcing myself to vomit."
"My eyes zeroed in on the scale. I shouldn’t get on. It would only depress me. But I did anyway and saw I had gained a pound. My throat tightened, constricting my air flow. How is that possible? I just weighed two days ago! Tears sprang to my eyes. I knew temptation was coming, and panicked sweat slid down my face. I wanted to escape; I wanted to get this weight off of me. I wanted to disappear. I got on the scale again—sure I had read it wrong the first time. I hadn’t."
"I had sat down for two Thanksgiving dinners and was leaving hungrier than before either of them. How anyone could eat under that kind of strain was beyond me."
"how much I ran, it was never enough. The tears were freely flowing now as I stepped in the shower, letting the steaming hot water run over me, praying it would sear off everything I hated about myself."
She struggles with accepting herself as well as who to choose - Parker: the sweet, caring, loving guy who always pushes her to do her best or Jake: the player who used her at first, but then keeps coming back for her.
I loved the ending and this book is just what everyone needs to read.
Want to read
February 24, 2018
FREE on Amazon US today (10/14/2016)
Stand-alone book 1.
BLURB:
Avery Nichols knows how to wear the mask. Perfect student, perfect daughter and perfect friend. Nobody would ever guess that inside, Avery is a prisoner to her own self loathing.
Then she meets him…and everything changes.
Handsome, charming and self assured, Jake Matthew sweeps Avery off her feet in an effortless fashion. Avery knows that Jake is everything she needs and all she has ever wanted.
She would destroy herself to be loved by him…until he walks away.
Broken and lost, Avery meets Parker. His genuine, caring nature reaches past the mask and the shattered pieces her heart begin to slowly heal. But just when Avery starts to feel whole again, she realizes the impossible.
Jake never really left.
FREE: https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Rose...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 600 books)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
July 17, 2021
What can I say? This book is a labor of love. It's my debut novel and I hope you will love the story and characters as much as I do.
For more information about my other books, please visit my website at www.tammylgray.com
For more information about my other books, please visit my website at www.tammylgray.com
March 4, 2025
Avery is a college student that is thrown into the party scene when she meets her roommate and her Cousin Jake. When Avery starts to fall for Jake and he shows the same interest, she does everything to keep him. After giving herself to him he breaks it off with her. Devastated she doesn't know what to her do. Her grades slipped and she is totally depressed. In step Parker. A man of God who treats her with respect. The problem is Jake wants her back, and Avery is at a lost to what to do about it. Who will she choose? Who is best for her? This is a wonderful story and so many YA readers should read. Today girls give of themselves and get hurt everytime in this process. Parker is the man I wish more of him were out there. You really want to shake Avery when she keeps letting Jake into her life but I hate to admit I was an Avery. Hurt and after giving all to Jake she can't let go. I have to say you want to shake Jake because he knows of Avery confusion and he works off that to keep confusing her. God was after Avery and many were praying for her. When God is in the mist of a relationship He will see you and help you even when you think you can be lost. I love in the book each chapter someone is praying for Avery. When someone is praying for you, even the bad can be corrected. I loved this book and if you haven't read any of Tammy L Gray your really need to. God is in the mist of her books and she write the truth into day culture. Highly recommend and enjoy!!
October 10, 2022
1.5 shattered stars
So, in general, this was actually quite an interesting story. Potential readers should be cautioned that this is a Christian Romance. Is this even a genre? If so, please have those books marked clearly. Wouldn't want anybody to find themselves spending money for something that clearly has no relevance for them. (WAIT FOR THE BUT AT THE END; THOUGH.)
⇝What’s happening.
As if battling an eating disorder isn't bad enough, a bad guy - Jake - is entering Avery's life. Everyone knows those kinds of people: Deep down you are very well aware they're everything but beneficial to your mental health. Nonetheless, we can't seem to get rid of them, the opposite is in fact the case; they are addictive. So Avery is caught up in two things at once: a mental disorder and a toxic relationship.
Enter Parker, the good guy. He seems everything she wants and needs but yet she keeps coming back to Jake.
For everyone who wants to read this book, decide for yourself whether you wanna continue to read my review, it's not actually a spoiler, just a bit. But I feel obliged to share this with interested readers because it can really de- or increase the value of this book to the individual. So, there it is;
BUT. then the bible entered this story and it all went downhill for me. The story itself is still kinda good but as someone who believes in their own strength, power and responsibility alone and not in God/Gods/any kind of construct created by "religion", the Jesus Christ - part of this book just wasn't convincing. In this book, the relationship Avery supposedly has with Jesus Christ isn't properly built, it just appears out of nowhere, which makes it unconvincing. I feel like if it had been mentioned more often but on a low scale, it would have still been enjoyable for people that don't believe in a conventional way. And I would really like to know which parts of the bible she read that made her believe all of a sudden. Because I am 50% through (About to finish the old testament) and still can't see this kind and loving God everybody is so hyped about.
_____________________
Writing quality + easy of reading = 4*
pace = 3*
plot development = 2* (as I said, decreasing quality)
characters = 2* (I felt many of them were somewhat over-stereotypical)
enjoyability = 1*
insightfullness = 1* (only not less because of the eating disorder)
So, in general, this was actually quite an interesting story. Potential readers should be cautioned that this is a Christian Romance. Is this even a genre? If so, please have those books marked clearly. Wouldn't want anybody to find themselves spending money for something that clearly has no relevance for them. (WAIT FOR THE BUT AT THE END; THOUGH.)
⇝What’s happening.
As if battling an eating disorder isn't bad enough, a bad guy - Jake - is entering Avery's life. Everyone knows those kinds of people: Deep down you are very well aware they're everything but beneficial to your mental health. Nonetheless, we can't seem to get rid of them, the opposite is in fact the case; they are addictive. So Avery is caught up in two things at once: a mental disorder and a toxic relationship.
Enter Parker, the good guy. He seems everything she wants and needs but yet she keeps coming back to Jake.
For everyone who wants to read this book, decide for yourself whether you wanna continue to read my review, it's not actually a spoiler, just a bit. But I feel obliged to share this with interested readers because it can really de- or increase the value of this book to the individual. So, there it is;
BUT. then the bible entered this story and it all went downhill for me. The story itself is still kinda good but as someone who believes in their own strength, power and responsibility alone and not in God/Gods/any kind of construct created by "religion", the Jesus Christ - part of this book just wasn't convincing. In this book, the relationship Avery supposedly has with Jesus Christ isn't properly built, it just appears out of nowhere, which makes it unconvincing. I feel like if it had been mentioned more often but on a low scale, it would have still been enjoyable for people that don't believe in a conventional way. And I would really like to know which parts of the bible she read that made her believe all of a sudden. Because I am 50% through (About to finish the old testament) and still can't see this kind and loving God everybody is so hyped about.
_____________________
Writing quality + easy of reading = 4*
pace = 3*
plot development = 2* (as I said, decreasing quality)
characters = 2* (I felt many of them were somewhat over-stereotypical)
enjoyability = 1*
insightfullness = 1* (only not less because of the eating disorder)
April 27, 2013
Unfortunately, this story is all too often truth instead of fiction, happening in the daily lives of girls who struggle to strike a balance between love and obsession, between healthy choices and dangerous fixations. I recognize so many people in the pages of the book, so many real faces that are caught up in the destructive cycle Avery faces.
In this way, the book becomes not only a great read that draws you in and makes you want to yell at the characters to make certain decisions, but it also becomes a beacon of hope to those desperately lost in a long dark tunnel that twists and turns and winds back around to where it started.
The descriptions of Avery's thoughts and reasoning as she battles her eating disorder and obsessive relationship give us a raw look at the labyrinth she's running through. Every choice is a crossroads, and rooting for her to take the right path is unavoidable. She's the girl-next-door who needs someone to believe in her, someone to throw her a lifeline and introduce her to the One Person who can clear up her confusion by grabbing her hand and walking her out of the dark maze. But will she open up to that possibility or continue down the self-destructive path that seems so much easier to take?
Anyone who works with girls or young women should read this book, not only to gain sensitivity to that girl everyone knows who just won't stop making bad choices, but also to be reminded of the difference simply reaching out and showing unconditional love can make in someone's life.
I found this book enthralling, and I loved the author's style. I look forward to reading the second book in this series, which seems to spin off of one of the minor characters. Keep 'em coming, Mrs. Gray! You've gained a fan!
PARENTAL RATING: I'd like to give this a strong PG-13, but I need to emphasize that the G does stand for guidance--you moms and aunts will want to read this one first. It's brutally honest about the reality of eating disorders and obsession, with some spicy details about how far sexual attraction can go. The author didn't cross any lines in terms of the details, but use your judgment about whether or not it's too much for your teen.
**I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
(More complete review posted at hammocklibrarian.blogspot.com)
In this way, the book becomes not only a great read that draws you in and makes you want to yell at the characters to make certain decisions, but it also becomes a beacon of hope to those desperately lost in a long dark tunnel that twists and turns and winds back around to where it started.
The descriptions of Avery's thoughts and reasoning as she battles her eating disorder and obsessive relationship give us a raw look at the labyrinth she's running through. Every choice is a crossroads, and rooting for her to take the right path is unavoidable. She's the girl-next-door who needs someone to believe in her, someone to throw her a lifeline and introduce her to the One Person who can clear up her confusion by grabbing her hand and walking her out of the dark maze. But will she open up to that possibility or continue down the self-destructive path that seems so much easier to take?
Anyone who works with girls or young women should read this book, not only to gain sensitivity to that girl everyone knows who just won't stop making bad choices, but also to be reminded of the difference simply reaching out and showing unconditional love can make in someone's life.
I found this book enthralling, and I loved the author's style. I look forward to reading the second book in this series, which seems to spin off of one of the minor characters. Keep 'em coming, Mrs. Gray! You've gained a fan!
PARENTAL RATING: I'd like to give this a strong PG-13, but I need to emphasize that the G does stand for guidance--you moms and aunts will want to read this one first. It's brutally honest about the reality of eating disorders and obsession, with some spicy details about how far sexual attraction can go. The author didn't cross any lines in terms of the details, but use your judgment about whether or not it's too much for your teen.
**I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
(More complete review posted at hammocklibrarian.blogspot.com)
July 7, 2014
Couldn't put it down! Thought I'd read one chapter before bed and now it is 4:30am!
I love the hope and struggle to find the hope! I loved the redemption of Christ and His unconditional love portrayed through Parker. I found myself encouraged and reminded of that unconditional love that I think most people struggle to grasp at some point in their life. What a realistic, beautiful portrayal of the perfectionistic performance mindset, the breakdown in meeting those performance standards and fidning the solution. I love the message of facing the fears of not being perfect and finding a love that is solid, stable, strong and true! Excellent story line!
I rated this less than a 5 star only for a few grammar issues (missing words to complete the sentence) and some misspellings (Ex: siting for sitting). Otherwise top notch dialogue, plot, and character development! Can't read to read Issy's and Jake's stories; as well as reading Parker's perspective!
I love the hope and struggle to find the hope! I loved the redemption of Christ and His unconditional love portrayed through Parker. I found myself encouraged and reminded of that unconditional love that I think most people struggle to grasp at some point in their life. What a realistic, beautiful portrayal of the perfectionistic performance mindset, the breakdown in meeting those performance standards and fidning the solution. I love the message of facing the fears of not being perfect and finding a love that is solid, stable, strong and true! Excellent story line!
I rated this less than a 5 star only for a few grammar issues (missing words to complete the sentence) and some misspellings (Ex: siting for sitting). Otherwise top notch dialogue, plot, and character development! Can't read to read Issy's and Jake's stories; as well as reading Parker's perspective!
January 28, 2018
This new adult novel is Tammy Gray's debut. In Shattered Rose, there are four main characters and they are all college students at Winsor. The vast majority of the novel focuses on Avery, her roommate Issy and Issy's cousin Jake. None of them are Christians and each is still finding their moral compass.
What I liked most is when it was revealed who the voice was behind the prayers that started each chapter. The writing is good.
Readers looking for squeaky clean novels may want to pass on this debut. Although filled with fallen characters, they each came across as realistic and in need of someone to shine the light of Jesus.
What I liked most is when it was revealed who the voice was behind the prayers that started each chapter. The writing is good.
Readers looking for squeaky clean novels may want to pass on this debut. Although filled with fallen characters, they each came across as realistic and in need of someone to shine the light of Jesus.
September 23, 2023
5 Stars ✨
CF Contemporary Romance
“Even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Wow!! I don’t know what took me so long to read this book, but I’m glad i finally got around to it. I have to give props to author Gray on her ability to write something so edgy for Christian Fiction. It’s not even that it’s edgy- it’s raw and realistic and written for not only the target audience but for those who wouldn’t normally pick up a Christian Fiction romance book. Shattered Rose is the story of so many girls out there, lots would relate to this story of redemption, hope and salvation. I’m just so impressed because you won’t find many like this one in this particular genre. It reads like an NA novel without all the garbage- she wrote all the feels and “told it like it is”. I pray more women find this book , but more importantly- see the amazing testimony within the pages 🩷
CF Contemporary Romance
“Even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Wow!! I don’t know what took me so long to read this book, but I’m glad i finally got around to it. I have to give props to author Gray on her ability to write something so edgy for Christian Fiction. It’s not even that it’s edgy- it’s raw and realistic and written for not only the target audience but for those who wouldn’t normally pick up a Christian Fiction romance book. Shattered Rose is the story of so many girls out there, lots would relate to this story of redemption, hope and salvation. I’m just so impressed because you won’t find many like this one in this particular genre. It reads like an NA novel without all the garbage- she wrote all the feels and “told it like it is”. I pray more women find this book , but more importantly- see the amazing testimony within the pages 🩷
April 25, 2013
I can't remember the last time I read a book from start to finish in one day. And this book was over 400 pages long. It came in the mail today and I opened it and said to myself that I'd just read a few pages. Well I just finished and it was so good it is making my favorite fiction list. I started to get choked up a number of times when Avery thought about how much she hated herself and yet God sent someone into her life to show her His unconditional love for her. It was beautiful.
The crazy relationship with Jake made sense too. In fact, he reminded me of my ex and in a frighteningly similar fashion. I couldn't tell you how many times I'd seen women go for the bad boys when the good guy was right in front of them. Avery's confusion was genuine and I remembered feeling the same way back when I was the same age and dealt with the same eating disorder, though I dealt with it differently and it wasn't as severe. The coolest thing of all was when I found my savior and that happened for me in a very similar fashion as it happened to Avery. That gave me goosebumps as I remembered my brokenness that day.
Anyway, it was also a powerful love story and very realistic. I can't remember the last time I was so emotionally gripped by a story and when I cared about the characters so much that I ached for them. Avery's journey was so deep and so complex, but I loved reading it because it also rang so true.
For anyone who has ever been plagued with self-loathing, felt unworthy, picked men who made their insecurities worse, and dealt with addictive behavior - this book is for you. It shows how faith in Jesus is the only true answer and does so in a compelling and honest fashion. I'm so glad I took the time to read this book - not that I could stop once I started it. I just wish it was autographed. Oh well.
The crazy relationship with Jake made sense too. In fact, he reminded me of my ex and in a frighteningly similar fashion. I couldn't tell you how many times I'd seen women go for the bad boys when the good guy was right in front of them. Avery's confusion was genuine and I remembered feeling the same way back when I was the same age and dealt with the same eating disorder, though I dealt with it differently and it wasn't as severe. The coolest thing of all was when I found my savior and that happened for me in a very similar fashion as it happened to Avery. That gave me goosebumps as I remembered my brokenness that day.
Anyway, it was also a powerful love story and very realistic. I can't remember the last time I was so emotionally gripped by a story and when I cared about the characters so much that I ached for them. Avery's journey was so deep and so complex, but I loved reading it because it also rang so true.
For anyone who has ever been plagued with self-loathing, felt unworthy, picked men who made their insecurities worse, and dealt with addictive behavior - this book is for you. It shows how faith in Jesus is the only true answer and does so in a compelling and honest fashion. I'm so glad I took the time to read this book - not that I could stop once I started it. I just wish it was autographed. Oh well.
February 5, 2016
Love, love, love this book so much! This is a beautifully written story about learning to love how God made you, trusting someone else with your fears and insecurities, and truly seeing what unconditional love really looks like!
Parker is just so amazing! It is truly encouraging that guys like Parker are in reality, genuine men of God, who want to honor Him in all relationships in life, including having morals when it comes to women!
For those that didn't know this is a full length novel.
Parker is just so amazing! It is truly encouraging that guys like Parker are in reality, genuine men of God, who want to honor Him in all relationships in life, including having morals when it comes to women!
For those that didn't know this is a full length novel.
July 13, 2024
I struggled with this book, it's marketed as a YA book, so I am not its target audience but majority of the characters annoyed me. There were some really selfish people who treated others like garbage. The characters are in college and there is a lot of partying, drinking and kissing, touching and more that happens. The main character Avery struggles a eating disorder, is uncomfortable with her appearance and lacks self-confidence however agrees to go out to a bar with her roommate minutes after meeting her. She connects with a guy and things go well at first, but then he does something that made me so mad and while Avery is mad at him for a while, he is able to keep drawing her back to him even though she has since met a much better guy. Avery waffles between the two guys and continues to make the same bad decisions over and over again, it got really frustrating. I got very frustrated with a couple characters saying they want to avoid certain things however they continually would put themselves in bad and tempting situations. This book was too long for what was it. Each chapter opens with someone praying for Avery, but other than that there was very little faith in God mentioned. There is a lot of physical interactions between characters (no described open door scenes), but I felt like the making out scenes went to far. It did wrap up nicely and provided a positive future for Avery.
December 2, 2018
Read this if you like: non-preachy Christian romance reads, college life, the highs and lows of first loves, learning to let go and learning from your mistakes.
September 22, 2023
Edit: 9/22/23
The more I think about this book. The more I'm disappointed. Also, wasn't happy with how a Christian man was portrayed in this.
2 stars
TRIGGER WARNING!!!! This book as far as I can see doesn’t have a trigger warning. The heroine deals with body image issues and suffers from Bulimia disorder. The synopsis only says that she deals with self-loathing. With self-loathing I can deal with some things, this book though brought back some memories from college. I didn’t suffer from ED. I dealt with my self-loathing through sex. I thought the more guys that paid attention to me, the more I would feel accepted. Only it made me end up hating myself even more. If you have dealt with anything like this, I highly caution you upon reading this book.
I will say the author does show Avery go from one extreme with her ED to being so wrapped up in Jake. With addictions/obsessions, it can be transferred. I also love that her best friend confronts her about it. I’m also glad that the author didn’t make her ED just go away either. In the end, Avery starts seeing a counselor to help learn new coping skills and how to not give in to temptation.
I’m not an Avery fan. She does so much stupid when it comes to Jake. Even after Parker. It got very annoying. If it wasn’t for her stupid decisions, I would have been able to finish this book in a day. Avery just grated on my nerves. The ending made this worth reading through though. I liked the ending better than the last book. It’s because of the ending that this isn’t a low rating.
I have one other book by this author, but I think I am going to hold off on reading it. I need to read another author. Don’t have a full care of what it is as long as it’s not Gray.
The more I think about this book. The more I'm disappointed. Also, wasn't happy with how a Christian man was portrayed in this.
2 stars
TRIGGER WARNING!!!! This book as far as I can see doesn’t have a trigger warning. The heroine deals with body image issues and suffers from Bulimia disorder. The synopsis only says that she deals with self-loathing. With self-loathing I can deal with some things, this book though brought back some memories from college. I didn’t suffer from ED. I dealt with my self-loathing through sex. I thought the more guys that paid attention to me, the more I would feel accepted. Only it made me end up hating myself even more. If you have dealt with anything like this, I highly caution you upon reading this book.
I will say the author does show Avery go from one extreme with her ED to being so wrapped up in Jake. With addictions/obsessions, it can be transferred. I also love that her best friend confronts her about it. I’m also glad that the author didn’t make her ED just go away either. In the end, Avery starts seeing a counselor to help learn new coping skills and how to not give in to temptation.
I’m not an Avery fan. She does so much stupid when it comes to Jake. Even after Parker. It got very annoying. If it wasn’t for her stupid decisions, I would have been able to finish this book in a day. Avery just grated on my nerves. The ending made this worth reading through though. I liked the ending better than the last book. It’s because of the ending that this isn’t a low rating.
I have one other book by this author, but I think I am going to hold off on reading it. I need to read another author. Don’t have a full care of what it is as long as it’s not Gray.
October 24, 2016
SHATTERED ROSE
There is a good message with this book, but to me it rambled on and on for many more pages than needed.
There is a good message with this book, but to me it rambled on and on for many more pages than needed.
December 9, 2018
Mild whiplash
Parker, Jake, Parker, Jake. This book was a ride and a half and I found myself quite annoyed with Avery on several occasions. But O liked it enough to read the whole book......so that says something
Parker, Jake, Parker, Jake. This book was a ride and a half and I found myself quite annoyed with Avery on several occasions. But O liked it enough to read the whole book......so that says something
May 5, 2013
This book was a very good read and I enjoyed it a lot. However, even though it is Christian and has a good ending it was a very emotional read. It also had a ton of adult content. I would not recommend this book to anybody under age 17, but that's my opinion. Some reasons I say this are because their is: sex before marriage, underage drinking, partying, and an eating disorder in the book. It used the word "Hell" in the book as a swear word a few times which might also bother some people. I'm not trying to make it so you don't want to read the book, because it was good, I'm putting this in here for warning that way you know what you are about to read if you decide to read it. This book doesn't sugar coat.
When those things that I listed above took place in the book Avery never really felt guilty when she was doing it, but after she felt completely horrible and worthless. She would also feel like she didn't deserve anyone's love. Through the book she realizes that she may not be worth God's love, but that he is willing to give it freely anyway if she lets him.
I'm not going to say anything about the guys, Jake and Parker, in the book because I do not want to give away which one she ends up with;)
Shattered Rose is told in first person which I liked a lot, because when I read the 'I did's or the 'I felt's I really did feel like I was going through her struggles/feeling her every emotion which was very important for the story in this case. I needed to feel these emotions so I knew what it would feel like for these things to actually happen to me. That way if I am ever put in some of Avery's situations I will not be tempted because I know the consequences of what could happen. If that makes any sense.
In my opinion this is a subtle Christian book. One that Christians and Non-Christians alike can appreciate.
This book was a self-published book, I received it in trade for a written blog review. I hope you like it:)
Please visit my blog for more reviews at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
When those things that I listed above took place in the book Avery never really felt guilty when she was doing it, but after she felt completely horrible and worthless. She would also feel like she didn't deserve anyone's love. Through the book she realizes that she may not be worth God's love, but that he is willing to give it freely anyway if she lets him.
I'm not going to say anything about the guys, Jake and Parker, in the book because I do not want to give away which one she ends up with;)
Shattered Rose is told in first person which I liked a lot, because when I read the 'I did's or the 'I felt's I really did feel like I was going through her struggles/feeling her every emotion which was very important for the story in this case. I needed to feel these emotions so I knew what it would feel like for these things to actually happen to me. That way if I am ever put in some of Avery's situations I will not be tempted because I know the consequences of what could happen. If that makes any sense.
In my opinion this is a subtle Christian book. One that Christians and Non-Christians alike can appreciate.
This book was a self-published book, I received it in trade for a written blog review. I hope you like it:)
Please visit my blog for more reviews at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/
November 20, 2015
Wow it's was so purely written it was amazing at times and so touching, this book was about a journey that we shared with the main character Avery, her ups and her downs, her trials and tribulations, love and pain. It showed almost every emotion to us as a reader and it made us feel exactly what the character felt and just as a reader I know that's amazing that a writer can get it so right. I loved this story it had so many hidden and out there messages within in and well it made it so deep, I thought the length of it would bother me and it did because it wasn't long enough!
Jake well what can I say, I liked him at first but as the book went on I realised how much I detested him not just because of what he did but how he acted towards all women like we were disposable it was annoying frustrating and kind of made me want to hurt him lol.
Avery well she was naive, sweet at first and seemed almost like a child going to college, she made mistakes, felt heartbreak and even found love, true unconditional love and it was lovely to see her almost blossom in front of us through her journey I loved it.
Parker was a proper cute sweet gentle boy with so much love for life and belief in people it was amazing to see in a character and like it was shown within the story he's a rarity and it was lovely to see the way he treated Avery and believed in her even when she had no belief in herself. He have her a strength that she didn't have before and that was charming.
Overall I liked the book, the twists and turns, love hate and heartbreak is amazingly written about. The characters amazing, the storyline pretty good too.
Jake well what can I say, I liked him at first but as the book went on I realised how much I detested him not just because of what he did but how he acted towards all women like we were disposable it was annoying frustrating and kind of made me want to hurt him lol.
Avery well she was naive, sweet at first and seemed almost like a child going to college, she made mistakes, felt heartbreak and even found love, true unconditional love and it was lovely to see her almost blossom in front of us through her journey I loved it.
Parker was a proper cute sweet gentle boy with so much love for life and belief in people it was amazing to see in a character and like it was shown within the story he's a rarity and it was lovely to see the way he treated Avery and believed in her even when she had no belief in herself. He have her a strength that she didn't have before and that was charming.
Overall I liked the book, the twists and turns, love hate and heartbreak is amazingly written about. The characters amazing, the storyline pretty good too.
March 30, 2015
Girls have so much pressure placed on them to be thin, look good and be popular.
Avery went to college with a warped self image her mom established early in her life. She always reminded her about her weight. Avery learned to eat and throw up which caused her shame and guilt. Her roommate had issues which caused her to drink which stemmed from her parents divorce. Jake was the roommates cousin and he had issues but was drawn to Avery, although he didn't want to be. He really controlled her emotions and then dropped her. Then Avery met Parker and he saw her for who she could be. He believed in her but she almost destroyed that relationship because of Jake. Avery had to come to terms with her choices and learn she was worthy to be loved for who she was.
Avery went to college with a warped self image her mom established early in her life. She always reminded her about her weight. Avery learned to eat and throw up which caused her shame and guilt. Her roommate had issues which caused her to drink which stemmed from her parents divorce. Jake was the roommates cousin and he had issues but was drawn to Avery, although he didn't want to be. He really controlled her emotions and then dropped her. Then Avery met Parker and he saw her for who she could be. He believed in her but she almost destroyed that relationship because of Jake. Avery had to come to terms with her choices and learn she was worthy to be loved for who she was.
August 31, 2017
Fantastic!!!!!!
Very real and possible, well-written story about pain, wounds, love...
I loved this book!!!
The characters are amazing and could be any of us!
Very real and possible, well-written story about pain, wounds, love...
I loved this book!!!
The characters are amazing and could be any of us!
March 4, 2016
Avery was too nice. The story had too much pain, too much drinking, too much confusion, too much hurting people. At least she finally found God!
September 10, 2019
I'm sorry to say that I struggled with this book. I was introduced to this author awhile back by another author that I adore and respect and so perhaps my expectations were a bit high? Not sure. This is considered to be a contemporary Christian romance. However, other than the short prayers at the beginning of each chapter (you find out later who's praying them and it wasn't who I expected!), there is very minimal Christian content until 70% at which point a character begins talking about Jesus, but shuts up when the subject is changed. The real Christian content is the last 5% of the book. While the rest of the book is MOSTLY clean, I really struggled with the intensity of the emotions in the "intimate" scenes and there were a few minor swear words (fewer than 5). I also didn't really like ANY of the characters in the book, which made it difficult for me to get interested. This one is written from a first person perspective of a person who is filled with self-loating for a majority of the book, so it makes it difficult to get pulled in, in my opinion.
The good about the book - as a person who struggled with bulimia in high school, it was refreshing to read about a character with the same struggle as it's one you don't often see in books. Her struggles and temptations and the shame were very true to life. This book was also about character growth and that certainly happened for Avery. The ending was satisfying and I liked how she processed and got past her fears of losing control. The story-line was enjoyable enough that I finished it. However, my plan to immediately read books 2 and 3 has been altered. I will probably still read them at some point, but it won't be right away.
I hate to be a negative Nellie, so I would encourage those who enjoy a good contempoarary romance to look at other reviews as well to gauge if this is something you'd want to read. Since that's not generally my genre of choice, I'm sure that played in to my overall feeling of the book as well.
The good about the book - as a person who struggled with bulimia in high school, it was refreshing to read about a character with the same struggle as it's one you don't often see in books. Her struggles and temptations and the shame were very true to life. This book was also about character growth and that certainly happened for Avery. The ending was satisfying and I liked how she processed and got past her fears of losing control. The story-line was enjoyable enough that I finished it. However, my plan to immediately read books 2 and 3 has been altered. I will probably still read them at some point, but it won't be right away.
I hate to be a negative Nellie, so I would encourage those who enjoy a good contempoarary romance to look at other reviews as well to gauge if this is something you'd want to read. Since that's not generally my genre of choice, I'm sure that played in to my overall feeling of the book as well.
November 12, 2024
So, I started this series by reading the second book out of the three so now I’ve jumped into this one, which is the first in The shattered rose series. Another solid read from T.L. Gray! She’s quickly becoming one of my fav contemporary Christian fiction authors.
This book follows Avery, a college sophomore who deals with a really debilitating eating disorder, spurred on by her mom, sister, and her low self esteem. When she meets her new roommate’s cousin Jake, she quickly falls under his charm and falls completely in love with him. Unfortunately, he’s not the kind of guy for relationships, so just as quickly as he appeared, he dumps her, leaving her heartbroken and questioning whether she is truly good enough for anyone to love.
In the midst of her pain, she ends up meeting Parker, who is always able to see beneath that pain and brings out the joy she has within. Through the course of their relationship she questions, again, whether she is truly worthy of this man’s love. However, with his encouragement and love, she is finally able to heal (both emotionally and from her eating disorder) and starts to move forward with her life. Unfortunately, Jake comes back, remorseful and begging for a second chance, who does she end up choosing?!
There was a really sweet aspect to this book that I loved - each chapter begins with a prayer for Avery but you don’t know who is praying it. Ultimately, (Spoiler!) you find out it’s her boyfriend’s (then fiancé’s) mother. Ughhh I just loved that reveal at the end!
This book follows Avery, a college sophomore who deals with a really debilitating eating disorder, spurred on by her mom, sister, and her low self esteem. When she meets her new roommate’s cousin Jake, she quickly falls under his charm and falls completely in love with him. Unfortunately, he’s not the kind of guy for relationships, so just as quickly as he appeared, he dumps her, leaving her heartbroken and questioning whether she is truly good enough for anyone to love.
In the midst of her pain, she ends up meeting Parker, who is always able to see beneath that pain and brings out the joy she has within. Through the course of their relationship she questions, again, whether she is truly worthy of this man’s love. However, with his encouragement and love, she is finally able to heal (both emotionally and from her eating disorder) and starts to move forward with her life. Unfortunately, Jake comes back, remorseful and begging for a second chance, who does she end up choosing?!
There was a really sweet aspect to this book that I loved - each chapter begins with a prayer for Avery but you don’t know who is praying it. Ultimately, (Spoiler!) you find out it’s her boyfriend’s (then fiancé’s) mother. Ughhh I just loved that reveal at the end!
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March 18, 2019Personal Response
I loved this book. I was able to relate to the running aspect of the main character, and I thought it was a great story. I like how the story was based in college and gave an insight into what college is like. Overall, this book was interesting and I will read the rest of the books in the series.
Plot Summary
Avery is a college student at Winsor, and she has an eating disorder where she throws up because she is very insecure. She moves into an apartment with a college student named Issy, who she soon becomes very good friends with. Issy has a cousin named Jake, who Avery turns out to be attracted to. Jake and Avery end up dating, even though Issy tells Avery Jake is not a good guy to date. Jake and Avery date for a while, and Jake suddenly breaks up with Avery for no reason. This throws Avery into an emotional breakdown, and another college student named Parker helps her calm down. They start to study together and get Avery´s life back on track that she threw away when dating Jake. Jake ends up being furious that Avery has moved on, and he keeps trying to get Avery to come back to him. Avery tries to stay away, but is drawn to him and hangs out with him as ¨friends¨ sometimes. Parker catches them watching a movie together when she told him she was spending the night alone, and they get into a fight. This gives Avery clarity from her feelings, and she tells Jake things are over and apologizes to Parker. Parker forgives her, and they finally are able to date without Jake interfering.
Recommendation
I think that this is a great book for teenage girls. I do not think that boys would like this book, but anyone who likes books about college and romance would like it. I also think that people who like reading realistic books would enjoy this.
I loved this book. I was able to relate to the running aspect of the main character, and I thought it was a great story. I like how the story was based in college and gave an insight into what college is like. Overall, this book was interesting and I will read the rest of the books in the series.
Plot Summary
Avery is a college student at Winsor, and she has an eating disorder where she throws up because she is very insecure. She moves into an apartment with a college student named Issy, who she soon becomes very good friends with. Issy has a cousin named Jake, who Avery turns out to be attracted to. Jake and Avery end up dating, even though Issy tells Avery Jake is not a good guy to date. Jake and Avery date for a while, and Jake suddenly breaks up with Avery for no reason. This throws Avery into an emotional breakdown, and another college student named Parker helps her calm down. They start to study together and get Avery´s life back on track that she threw away when dating Jake. Jake ends up being furious that Avery has moved on, and he keeps trying to get Avery to come back to him. Avery tries to stay away, but is drawn to him and hangs out with him as ¨friends¨ sometimes. Parker catches them watching a movie together when she told him she was spending the night alone, and they get into a fight. This gives Avery clarity from her feelings, and she tells Jake things are over and apologizes to Parker. Parker forgives her, and they finally are able to date without Jake interfering.
Recommendation
I think that this is a great book for teenage girls. I do not think that boys would like this book, but anyone who likes books about college and romance would like it. I also think that people who like reading realistic books would enjoy this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2021
This was a great read. I didn't realize it would have such strong religious themes, but I found that aspect to be pleasantly surprising. There were a lot of emotional highs and lows that really felt real and resonated with me. I loved that it was a standalone (the other 2 books in the series follow different couples/characters we met in this book) so it nice to have a solid conclusion.
July 25, 2017
It's my first read Christian romance book and it's really good. After so many struggles finally the happiness comes in Avery's life. This book is about how unconditional true love changes a person's life imaginably irrespective of their flaws and imperfections.
April 15, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. I went through all possible emotions and insecurities with Avery. In love how even thorough our destructive behaviors, God's words were whispers of encouragement. I can't wait to read the next book.
I absolutely loved this book. I went through all possible emotions and insecurities with Avery. In love how even thorough our destructive behaviors, God's words were whispers of encouragement and unconditional Iove. I can't wait to read the next book.
I absolutely loved this book. I went through all possible emotions and insecurities with Avery. In love how even thorough our destructive behaviors, God's words were whispers of encouragement and unconditional Iove. I can't wait to read the next book.
July 16, 2024
The Christianity in this book was so weak it would have been better off not there. The whole good Christian guy dates bad girl, girl eventually becomes Christian is just a terrible storyline.
December 13, 2017
Shattered Rose
An interesting book about the struggles of college students as they come together from different backgrounds. I like that there is a sequel.
An interesting book about the struggles of college students as they come together from different backgrounds. I like that there is a sequel.
January 6, 2019
Personal Response
I really loved the book Shattered Rose. I think it was a great story about how many people face problems in their life, but there's always light at the end of the tunnel. I liked how the author explained the problems of the character and how they solved them in a very real manner. It was a great book to read, and I am planning on reading more from this author.
Plot Summary (Spoilers)
Avery Nichols is the perfect girl on the outside. Starting her third year of college on an engineering scholarship, she is doing well. But on the inside, Avery is far from perfect. Avery has a problem with her body after several years of her mother breathing down her neck about looking perfect. This causes Avery to make herself throw up everytime she decides she doesn’t like something about herself. When Avery moved into her new apartment, she meet her roommate's cousin Jake. He was the perfect guy, that swept Avery right off of her feet. After dating Jake for a couple of weeks Avery finds out the hard way that Jake definitely is not perfect. While having a mental breakdown after witnessing another girl in Jake's apartment, Avery meets Parker in the schools Quad. He seems genuinely concerned for her and tries to help Avery. Parker and Avery later start dating and Avery forgets all about Jake.
Recommendation
I recommend this book to all teen girls. The author does a very great job at telling the readers about the mindset of those who having eating disorders, and what causes them. It is a really great book that helps young girls understand that their is always a bright side to things. Overall, this book was great to read and I recommend all teen girls to read it.
I really loved the book Shattered Rose. I think it was a great story about how many people face problems in their life, but there's always light at the end of the tunnel. I liked how the author explained the problems of the character and how they solved them in a very real manner. It was a great book to read, and I am planning on reading more from this author.
Plot Summary (Spoilers)
Avery Nichols is the perfect girl on the outside. Starting her third year of college on an engineering scholarship, she is doing well. But on the inside, Avery is far from perfect. Avery has a problem with her body after several years of her mother breathing down her neck about looking perfect. This causes Avery to make herself throw up everytime she decides she doesn’t like something about herself. When Avery moved into her new apartment, she meet her roommate's cousin Jake. He was the perfect guy, that swept Avery right off of her feet. After dating Jake for a couple of weeks Avery finds out the hard way that Jake definitely is not perfect. While having a mental breakdown after witnessing another girl in Jake's apartment, Avery meets Parker in the schools Quad. He seems genuinely concerned for her and tries to help Avery. Parker and Avery later start dating and Avery forgets all about Jake.
Recommendation
I recommend this book to all teen girls. The author does a very great job at telling the readers about the mindset of those who having eating disorders, and what causes them. It is a really great book that helps young girls understand that their is always a bright side to things. Overall, this book was great to read and I recommend all teen girls to read it.
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