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Beyond Broken
He was searching for hope in a world that had offered him everything.
She had the answer...but had lost her heart.
How far is too far for love when you find yourself "Beyond Broken"?
She had the answer...but had lost her heart.
How far is too far for love when you find yourself "Beyond Broken"?
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First published September 1, 2013
8 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Vayden
40 books479 followersKristin's inspiration for the romance she writes comes from her tall, dark and handsome husband with killer blue eyes. With five children to chase, she is never at a loss for someone to kiss, something to cook or some mess to clean but she loves every moment of it! She loves to make soap, sauerkraut, sourdough bread and gluten free muffins. Life is full of blessings and she praises God for the blessed and abundant life He's given her.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 31, 2013
I was fortunate enough to get an ARC of this book. I LOVE bad boy books (right I know like everyone else in the known universe) but this book had a twist on it that I wasn't expecting.
Greyson is methodical, hot, sexy, wounded, broken, but persistent.
I loved his character and I loved how the story wasn't a typical bad boy meets good girl and shows her the world of love/lust...;)
***More of the review to come as the date gets closer for release***
Greyson is methodical, hot, sexy, wounded, broken, but persistent.
I loved his character and I loved how the story wasn't a typical bad boy meets good girl and shows her the world of love/lust...;)
***More of the review to come as the date gets closer for release***
August 31, 2013
When you stay up until 3:00 in the morning in order to finish a book, you know it’s a good book.
It seems that the New Adult sub genre has taken the publishing world by storm and there’s a bounty of angsty, dramatic romances available right now. Some are better written than others, and some are edgier than others. However, Beyond Broken is not your typical New Adult novel. I thought it was – given the title, the cover art, and the blurb - I thought I knew what kind of book I was picking up to read. And I did… but I didn’t.
Sophia Holton is NOT your typical college student seeking an internship at a drug-rehab facility and Greyson Bentley is NOT your typical detox patient. As I began reading I thought this would be a typical case of a sweet girl falling in love with a messed-up guy – in this case a nurse falling in love with her patient. It has all the earmarks of a good NA novel: wealthy, gorgeous, drug-addicted guy needs “rescuing”; sweet, innocent, gorgeous girl falls in love with and wants to “save” said guy. And if that was all there was to this story, it would be a good NA novel.
However, Kristen Vayden hasn’t given us a “good NA novel”. She has written a powerful, inspiring work of fiction that challenges the reader to think more deeply about choices. Just because your heart & even your body is screaming “I want him” or “I want her” – that doesn’t mean it’s the right choice. Sometimes, doing the right thing is hard. Sometimes, in order to help someone you have to hurt them first.
While Sophia & Greyson's relationship has a depth that can sometimes be hard to find in today's fiction. Their relationship is not just about physical attraction. It’s not simply, “I want you so I’m going to have you”. Sophia struggles with reconciling her feelings with what she knows and believes she should do. The heart and the mind don’t always agree with each other and Sophia knows there will be consequences to her choices. Greyson hasn’t been blessed with the real-life experiences that Sophia has witnessed, so he ends up learning a few lessons “the hard way”. The journey of their relationship isn't a straight course - it has lots of bends & even switch-backs. The result is a book that allows the reader to not only experience a great love story, but also an “epiphany of truth” that left me wanting to be a better person.
Honest disclosure: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
FYI: this is a New Adult book, while there are no sex scenes, it does have some language and there are adult topics such as drug abuse so I, personally, would recommend for readers 17+
It seems that the New Adult sub genre has taken the publishing world by storm and there’s a bounty of angsty, dramatic romances available right now. Some are better written than others, and some are edgier than others. However, Beyond Broken is not your typical New Adult novel. I thought it was – given the title, the cover art, and the blurb - I thought I knew what kind of book I was picking up to read. And I did… but I didn’t.
Sophia Holton is NOT your typical college student seeking an internship at a drug-rehab facility and Greyson Bentley is NOT your typical detox patient. As I began reading I thought this would be a typical case of a sweet girl falling in love with a messed-up guy – in this case a nurse falling in love with her patient. It has all the earmarks of a good NA novel: wealthy, gorgeous, drug-addicted guy needs “rescuing”; sweet, innocent, gorgeous girl falls in love with and wants to “save” said guy. And if that was all there was to this story, it would be a good NA novel.
However, Kristen Vayden hasn’t given us a “good NA novel”. She has written a powerful, inspiring work of fiction that challenges the reader to think more deeply about choices. Just because your heart & even your body is screaming “I want him” or “I want her” – that doesn’t mean it’s the right choice. Sometimes, doing the right thing is hard. Sometimes, in order to help someone you have to hurt them first.
While Sophia & Greyson's relationship has a depth that can sometimes be hard to find in today's fiction. Their relationship is not just about physical attraction. It’s not simply, “I want you so I’m going to have you”. Sophia struggles with reconciling her feelings with what she knows and believes she should do. The heart and the mind don’t always agree with each other and Sophia knows there will be consequences to her choices. Greyson hasn’t been blessed with the real-life experiences that Sophia has witnessed, so he ends up learning a few lessons “the hard way”. The journey of their relationship isn't a straight course - it has lots of bends & even switch-backs. The result is a book that allows the reader to not only experience a great love story, but also an “epiphany of truth” that left me wanting to be a better person.
Honest disclosure: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
FYI: this is a New Adult book, while there are no sex scenes, it does have some language and there are adult topics such as drug abuse so I, personally, would recommend for readers 17+
September 4, 2013
WOW! Seriously, this book took me by surprise and is completely amazing! This new adult novel was an excellent read! Yes there was an edge, emotions, angst, drugs and some other things typical of the new adult genre. But what makes Beyond Broken special and unique is the Christian theme throughout the book. Is it pushy? No way. Is it too much? Absolutely not! It is beautifully intertwined into the healing and recovery process that Greyson is going through. Sophia is a great guide and source of help as Greyson recovers from his addiction. The love story makes me smile! Why? Because it isn't your typical love story. Hard choices have to be made. Sacrifices even. And I loved that Kristin Vayden is bold in today's world and made the statement that intimacy should be reserved for marriage! It was refreshing for me to read a book that had more to it than just a surface romance where two characters want each other and jump into bed together. You will not be disappointed in this unique NA novel, you will love it! You will be pleasantly surprised at how different, yet compelling this story is! Five fabulous stars and I want more books by Kristin Vayden!!!
I received a coy of this book for free. This is my honest review.
I received a coy of this book for free. This is my honest review.
September 13, 2013
4.5 Stars
This book was really good. I had no idea what this book was going to be like when I started it. I have to say it was not a type of book I normally read. It was like a Christian romance.
Sophia grew up in the Philippians with her missionary parents. They helped educate people and help them with their drug and alcohol addictions. Sophie decided to go back to the US to go to college for nursing. She got her dream job being an intern at a drug and alcohol treatment center. She wants to help people and save them from turning back to their addiction. Here she meets Greyson and knows she can't fall in love because he can't love her like she needs. Can she protect her heart? Will she save Greyson?
Greyson has always had to work to please his dad and prove his worth. When his father died and left him the business he started working all the time. He did cocaine one night to help him stay awake and became addicted to it. He ended up at this treatment center knowing he needed to stop doing drugs. The withdrawals were terrible and he said he would never do drugs again. He also met Sophia and requested that she be his nurse. Can he not get addicted to her like he was to drugs? Will he stay away from the drugs?
This book is a must read. I really enjoyed this book. It was a nice fast sweet romance.
This book was really good. I had no idea what this book was going to be like when I started it. I have to say it was not a type of book I normally read. It was like a Christian romance.
Sophia grew up in the Philippians with her missionary parents. They helped educate people and help them with their drug and alcohol addictions. Sophie decided to go back to the US to go to college for nursing. She got her dream job being an intern at a drug and alcohol treatment center. She wants to help people and save them from turning back to their addiction. Here she meets Greyson and knows she can't fall in love because he can't love her like she needs. Can she protect her heart? Will she save Greyson?
Greyson has always had to work to please his dad and prove his worth. When his father died and left him the business he started working all the time. He did cocaine one night to help him stay awake and became addicted to it. He ended up at this treatment center knowing he needed to stop doing drugs. The withdrawals were terrible and he said he would never do drugs again. He also met Sophia and requested that she be his nurse. Can he not get addicted to her like he was to drugs? Will he stay away from the drugs?
This book is a must read. I really enjoyed this book. It was a nice fast sweet romance.
September 13, 2013
B.O.R.I.N.G.
I didn't get it. They just knew each other for a week. There's a connection. But I didn't exactly get how it started in the first place. It was just like one morning they already liked each other and Sophia was already falling in love. And they're already feeling this great intensity. I actually liked their connection a bit but it somehow fell short. I get that they were attracted with each other but still the intensity just suddenly went too strong. There was no build up. And the heroine, Sophia, always talked with so much wisdom. Wisdom is not bad. But in here, it's overused. It felt like I was reading a motivational book. The hero, Greyson, was being portrayed as a broken character. But I couldn’t really feel that he’s damaged at all.
All in all, everything was well written. But the writer was not able to bring you into the story. I was just reading and not feeling.
I didn't get it. They just knew each other for a week. There's a connection. But I didn't exactly get how it started in the first place. It was just like one morning they already liked each other and Sophia was already falling in love. And they're already feeling this great intensity. I actually liked their connection a bit but it somehow fell short. I get that they were attracted with each other but still the intensity just suddenly went too strong. There was no build up. And the heroine, Sophia, always talked with so much wisdom. Wisdom is not bad. But in here, it's overused. It felt like I was reading a motivational book. The hero, Greyson, was being portrayed as a broken character. But I couldn’t really feel that he’s damaged at all.
All in all, everything was well written. But the writer was not able to bring you into the story. I was just reading and not feeling.
July 27, 2016
Wow! I must admit I bought this book without even reading what it was about. I saw Kristin had a new book and bought it. I have read all of Kristin's other books and I have yet to be disappointed -- which is the case again.
The depth of the characters -- the emotional roller coaster ride watching Sophia and Greyson and their struggles. Sophia standing by her convictions and beliefs while struggling with her feelings and Greyson going thru detox and all his struggles. It wasn't a simple story with all the twists and turns but definitely well told and well worth the time to read! Loved it.
The depth of the characters -- the emotional roller coaster ride watching Sophia and Greyson and their struggles. Sophia standing by her convictions and beliefs while struggling with her feelings and Greyson going thru detox and all his struggles. It wasn't a simple story with all the twists and turns but definitely well told and well worth the time to read! Loved it.
September 2, 2013
What a emotional and spirtual journey Kristin Vayden takes her reader on in Beyond Broken.
Sophia, is a woman strong and filled with faith. She has seen the worst that life can be in the Phillippines with her parents aiding drug addicts to better their life. In America and ready to intern in a drug rehab Sophia finds the perfect center that is in sync with her thoughts and beliefs, Willow and Oak.
Day One, Sophia meets Greyson. A powerful man who has reached rock bottom. Her tough exterior, and honest voice is exactly what he needs to guide him to the light of life. With all teh callenges Sophia remains his beacon of hope and light as she reminds him of God's promise.
Beyond Broken is a Love Story with a HEA, a couple's journey with each other leaning on and learning about God. A blessing to read as Vayden's powerful message and faith shines through, waming your heart.
**i was blessed to receive an ARC of this beautiful book for an honest review**
Sophia, is a woman strong and filled with faith. She has seen the worst that life can be in the Phillippines with her parents aiding drug addicts to better their life. In America and ready to intern in a drug rehab Sophia finds the perfect center that is in sync with her thoughts and beliefs, Willow and Oak.
Day One, Sophia meets Greyson. A powerful man who has reached rock bottom. Her tough exterior, and honest voice is exactly what he needs to guide him to the light of life. With all teh callenges Sophia remains his beacon of hope and light as she reminds him of God's promise.
Beyond Broken is a Love Story with a HEA, a couple's journey with each other leaning on and learning about God. A blessing to read as Vayden's powerful message and faith shines through, waming your heart.
**i was blessed to receive an ARC of this beautiful book for an honest review**
October 14, 2013
About Beyond Broken:
He was searching for hope in a world that offered him everything.
She had the answer... but had lost her heart
How far is too far for love when you find yourself “Beyond Broken”
Excerpt:
The pull was magnetic and I was powerless to stop it. As much as I wanted to distance myself, keep my heart safe, it was useless. The last shreds of my self-control were beginning to snap, one by one, increasing the tension that already existed, that was my existence. Everything about him warned heartbreak, yet my own traitorous heart continued to beat his name, regardless of the danger, of the risk involved in loving him. I was torn between what was right, what I knew to be true, and what I wanted.
It would have been so much easier if he were indifferent; if his silver grey eyes didn’t stare through me and sear me with his gaze. I could pretend that my own torrent of emotions didn’t exist, but he provoked them, brought them out into the light. All at once my cover was blown and there was nothing left to do but fall, knowing full well I might never be caught.
My Review:
When I started reading Beyond Broken I started to realize that it was not the type of book I usually read. I tend to read things a bit more spice to it. Oh hell what am I saying? I LOVE reading erotic romance. So you can imagine my surprise when I realized that this was not that type of book. I really could not tell from the description and excerpt that Beyond Broken was more religious then erotica. However the more I read the more I found myself really enjoying this book.
We first meet Sophia as she is going for an interview at a drug treatment facility. Having grown up in the Philippines, Sophia was used to seeing poverty and drug use. She had seen many terrible things in her life. From babies that were born addicted and going through withdrawal because of their mother's drug use during pregnancy, to half starved infants. She wanted to devote her life to help others, especially drug addicts. She wanted to help people survive their addictions. Sophia gets the internship and soon meets Greyson.
“What’s your kryptonite Superwomen”? - Greyson
“You” - Sophia
Greyson was at the treatment facility due to his addiction to cocaine. He is the billionaire CEO of the company he took over after his fathers death. Using cocaine to get through his day to day hectic schedule.
“I was wrong. Greyson wasn’t dangerous, he was deadly - lethal” - Sophia
When these two meet they have an instant connection to each other. Drawn to each other for an unknown reason. I don’t want to give too much away, the story is intense at times. I felt many emotions reading this book. I felt sorrow for Greyson, and admiration for Sophia. I was rooting for them to find their way to each other.
“No, wait I’d say I’m sorry, but, Sophia... I’m not. Right now - right now might be broken. I might not be what you deserve. I know I’m not what you deserve. But just... just give me a chance to be that man. I want to be that man. I need to be that man, because finding you... Because finding you was like breathing for the first time. Don’t run away. Don’t steal my breath, Sophia. I’ve only just learned how much I need it, how much I need you.” - Greyson
I give it 3 1/2 stars. A sweet read with a little angst thrown in.
October 22, 2013
3.5 stars
An interesting premise, and one I usually wouldn't be interested in: Sofia works at a rehabilitation center. There she meets Greyson, who requests her personally as his nurse. From their a forbidden relationship grows. Normally, I don't like to read about heavier topics like drug addiction, but I loved some of Kristin Vayden's other books, like Living London, so I was curious. What was strange to me was that I didn't know this was going to be a religious novel. As Greyson heals, Sofia teaches him about letting God into his life, and how only God can completely heal him. While I agree with that sentiment, I felt like I was skimming over the religious paragraphs to get back to the story. I also found it at odds that there was so much talk about God, and then quite a bit of swearing. Overall, an interesting read, but not one I need to recommend to all of my friends. I did enjoy Greyson's sense of humor though. His lines had me chuckling to myself.
Content: swearing, pg-13 kissing, and sex after marriage (not described in great detail)
An interesting premise, and one I usually wouldn't be interested in: Sofia works at a rehabilitation center. There she meets Greyson, who requests her personally as his nurse. From their a forbidden relationship grows. Normally, I don't like to read about heavier topics like drug addiction, but I loved some of Kristin Vayden's other books, like Living London, so I was curious. What was strange to me was that I didn't know this was going to be a religious novel. As Greyson heals, Sofia teaches him about letting God into his life, and how only God can completely heal him. While I agree with that sentiment, I felt like I was skimming over the religious paragraphs to get back to the story. I also found it at odds that there was so much talk about God, and then quite a bit of swearing. Overall, an interesting read, but not one I need to recommend to all of my friends. I did enjoy Greyson's sense of humor though. His lines had me chuckling to myself.
Content: swearing, pg-13 kissing, and sex after marriage (not described in great detail)
September 13, 2013
4 stars was generous, this book was very intimate to me. Being in recovery for almost 3 years I do know the pain, destruction and chaos that is a means to an end. This was a very "pretty" heartfelt story although short and rushed. If true to the main characters convictions she wouldn't of lost herself into a man barely recovered. After a relapse that almost led to death I can see how that can change someone, but yet a few weeks and marriage? Very fictional. This author had a great story which she could of done a lot more with. It was well written, but in order to help someone as the author stated in the intro, she needed more explicit realities of addiction, and a spiritual character not so forgiving. I like the touch of god, we all need a higher power but for a billionaire to grasp so suddenly? Again very fictitious. When I read a book on this subject I want to feel the pain and tears of these characters, especially going though this time in my life. Overall great story needs more substance
September 7, 2013
Beyond Broken is a New Adult Romance by Kristin Vayden. This is the story of two people who meet and are inexplicably drawn to each other. He is a recovering addict, she is his nurse. It is the story of their journey both personally and together and the twists and turns their path leads them down on their way to happily ever after. The main characters all had depth to them, and you wanted to root for them. Beyond Broken is unique to this genre because while it contains the angst, the sexual tension and teasing, the drugs, the sexy "bad" boy, the innocent "good" girl it also has a strong inspirational theme running through it. This does not take away from the rest of the story nor does it combat with it, rather it compliments and adds layers and dimension to Vayden’s storytelling prowess. I absolutely recommend this book to you!
September 4, 2013
Kristin pulled me in again with this book! She has yet to disappoint me and I don't see that happening in the future either. I totally loved this book and these characters! Greyson was such an ass throughout most of the book but you could always see his redeeming qualities and see that there was hope for him (at least you hoped there was). Sophia was such a good mix of faithful and sassy that i adored her and totally want to hang with her and Bekah! I loved this book and really can't express how amazing it was. It will touch your heart and make you realize what some people go through in order to get where they are. I loved the inspirational part of this book as it shows that even with little to no faith God still works in mysterious ways and that He loves us all! This book was so good!! I can't wait until her next book releases!
September 7, 2013
Greyson Bentley has found himself at Willow and Oaks Rehabilitation Center. Sophia Holton has just landed the intern position of her dreams at the same Rehab Center. She wants to help people and he is desperately in need of help. But what she finds is so much more.
Kristin Vayden definitely knows how to write books that make you want to read more about almost all of the characters, sorry I just couldn't make myself like Dr. Solomon. She has a writing style that is so simple yet so complex in the way that she makes you think about every little action that the characters make in Beyond Broken.
I definitely want to read more about Bekah, Sophia's roommate.
Kristin Vayden definitely knows how to write books that make you want to read more about almost all of the characters, sorry I just couldn't make myself like Dr. Solomon. She has a writing style that is so simple yet so complex in the way that she makes you think about every little action that the characters make in Beyond Broken.
I definitely want to read more about Bekah, Sophia's roommate.
September 26, 2013
Ok. Moved a little fast for me, especially since they really came from 2 different worlds yet never did they live in either one together. Beyond his drug addiction, he lives in a world of money and that woukd be an adjustment for anyone but especially Sophia. After I thought about it I changed this to 2 stars cause I felt there was no real character development. A lot of things were told, but I had a hard time seeing anything from actions. I think the biggest struggle will be Greyson back in the "real" world, yet the book ended before that could really happen other than a few pages about it.
September 12, 2013
This book was absolutely amazing! It was also my first book from author Kristin Vayden, and what can I say...I'm a fan! The character depths are unbelieveable and they go through some extremely tough and very emotional situations. It's more than a story, it's real life! Addiction can take over your world before you know it, and you either choose to sink or swim...and the lengths Greyson goes through to prove his love and devotion to Sophia are so romantic and commendable! Love him to pieces...he's definately a keeper in my book! <3
4.5 stars!!!!
4.5 stars!!!!
September 28, 2013
AMAZING!!! What a beautiful story of addicition, overcoming it, finding God, finding love and finally living. I wish rhey had a book 2 coiming out - I really enjoyed this book.
Greyson was awesome and ti watch his bloom like a flower through his addiction was wonderful. And Sophia was a strong woman for her young age. She knew God, knew herself most days and knew what she needed and deserved. Mos to fus never get there and she was.
What else can I say, this was a GREAT book. One of my favs for the 2013 year.
Greyson was awesome and ti watch his bloom like a flower through his addiction was wonderful. And Sophia was a strong woman for her young age. She knew God, knew herself most days and knew what she needed and deserved. Mos to fus never get there and she was.
What else can I say, this was a GREAT book. One of my favs for the 2013 year.
September 29, 2013
The storyline was good and it was very well written... But the description was a little deceptive... It claimed that this book was inspirational but not overly religious due to subject matter... I think there was probably 10 at the most curses, the drug use was because of a rehab centre and as for sexual matter... Didn't happen. I am not saying that there was anything wrong with have a fairly "clean" book, but I still think this one should have been classified as religious... Just sayin'
October 24, 2013
This story was truly amazing. It is unlike any other story I have read. Although it encompasses everything that love should be based on, it also includes the addiction component that is truly remarkable and inspirational. It plays on the basis of true love and knowing God and finding yourself in the darkest places that life can take you. Definitely a very good read.
November 8, 2013
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed the journey of Greyson and Sophia as their relationship grew and struggled during the healing and recovery of his addiction. The chemistry, wit and Christian messages made for a really wonderful story. If it wasn't for the swearing and a little too steamy kisses, I would have given it a stronger rating.
I really enjoyed the journey of Greyson and Sophia as their relationship grew and struggled during the healing and recovery of his addiction. The chemistry, wit and Christian messages made for a really wonderful story. If it wasn't for the swearing and a little too steamy kisses, I would have given it a stronger rating.
December 20, 2013
4.5 stars. Wow, absolutely Wow. This author brought what is going on in this world. How she help him with his addiction, and fell in love with him. It has the moment of Prolonging the chapters but it was a great book. Bravo to the author for bringing in this book.
September 8, 2013
WOW-simply amazing.
September 9, 2013
3.5stars.
February 24, 2017
I loved this book. I have read other books by Kristin and loved them. She did an amazing job on this book. I will read it again and again. It will be one of my go to books.
September 17, 2013
lovely story it was a little quick and th story kind of just ended... I'm just greedy I think lol all in all great book 4stars:)
September 24, 2013
“Rather He takes us when we are broken, and lovingly gives us the strength to grow through it and heal. We can’t heal ourselves, we can try but in the end, it’s like you said, it’s not enough”
September 29, 2013
Totally clean, Christian romance. That's not why it fell flat for me. It was just a little too much Disney for me. Not enough one on one time between Greyson & Sofia to make it real for me.
March 7, 2014
The most moving story I've read on a long while!!! A definitely MUST READ!!!! You'll enjoy it!!!!
May 11, 2014
Loved Beyond Broken! Full review to come. :)
June 30, 2016
Loved it!! Didn't want to put it down!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews