Perfectly Broken

Broken #1

by Maegan Abel

Zane Tishler moved in with his brother after his nightmare divorce to find that his brother had taken in a “stray”, a punk chick with a bad attitude. Liliosa Cortez found a place to start over in a city built for hiding. But when her roommate’s brother moved in she pegged him for a pretty boy with enough baggage to fill a semi and major hostility toward women. But now, after two years, Lili and Zane have become best friends and the perfect “wingmen.” They’ve developed a system for tagging and bagging tourists. No strings attached. They are partners in crime who have managed to have the time of their lives in the City of Sin.

Life would be perfect if they could keep it this way, but a new player in the game makes both Lili and Zane face the feelings they had not been prepared to notice. What happens when dangerous shadows from a forgotten past find their way into the neon spotlights? What happens when the fuse is lit on all those emotions they have deeply buried?

Can they survive the explosion or will the backlash tear them and everyone they love apart?

When two pasts become one present in the searing Nevada heat…
When two realities collide under the lights of Vegas…
When two lives are threatened due to secrets and lies…

What do you do when you find out your perfect world is Perfectly Broken?

**This is a New Adult Romance with dark themes**

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Amazon, Friends To Lovers, Crime

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 31, 2014

About the author

Maegan Abel was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma where she still lives today. She has been an avid reader from a very young age and the top goal on her list of things to accomplish was to write and publish a book. During the summer of 2013, while working backstage on The Lion King, she read eleven books in four weeks. After reading her first New Adult book and being introduced to the genre, she felt she could totally relate to it. The idea for Perfectly Broken and the character of Lili was born backstage during that time.

Reviews

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I loved every broken piece of Lili, with every broken piece of me.
Maybe that's what it took when you were damaged.
Maybe, together, we were perfectly broken."

I will start my review with this beautiful quote from the book and i will say that there are so many great books out there that we don't know about them, but they totally worth our time...

This book was one of them...

I really liked the story and the way that it was written, but i would be honest to you...
That book frustrated me so much in the most part...

I wanna kick some asses!!! I wanna shake up the two main characters!!! I wanna yell to them that they have to wake up and see what was in front of them!!!

They almost drove me crazy with their refusal and their stubborness... and i accuse more... Lili.
But i have to explain you some things first...

Zane and Lili was best friends for the last two years...
They were having similar characters. They were broken from their pasts, they didn't believe in love and they liked casual sex... Not with each other. But sometimes they use each other as a life-jacket to avoided some unwelcome situations...

And at the beginning of this book, we were having an unwelcome situation... Zane's ex-wife.
So Lili play her role to made her stay away from Zane... but the kiss that they shared something rocked inside of them...

I can not lie to you, but in the most part of the book i was confused.

Did Lili was in love with Zane???
Did Zane was in love with Lili???
Many times i was so sure for the aboves, but other times i was uncertain.
They were friends but the lines were blurred...
They hooked up with others, but they got mad with each other...

Hmmm.... Yeah, i think i was sure for one thing...
They were in love but they didn't want to acknowledge and admit it...
For several, known and unknown reasons...

Phew!!! But except that mess the story was very good.
It had many twists and much story hidden behind all this strange situation...

Zane was a lovely man that was having his own problems...

An ex-wife who cheated on him, a four-years old son who adored but who wasn't exactly his. His ex was all the time in the way and made the situations more complicated than already were. He was a little bit lost...


Lili was fiercy and she seemed strong enough. But she was running from her past which its still remain a mystery... She wasn't trust easily anyone, except Zane, Trish and Kash.
She was afraid of love... and she was stubborn as hell.


The thing is that those two were tiptowing around each another and when i was about to say that now comes the time that they will realize their true feelings, they were both making huge mistakes and fucked everything up.
The misunderstandings were unsufferable...

They irritated me both of them so much...
Zane because he couldn't find the right words to apologize properly, and Lili because she didn't let him to talk. All the time, she was made her own conclusions and she shut everyone out...


Thank God that in this book was Trish and Kash. They were a couple and their roomates... Of course they knew from the beginning that thing that Zane and Lili struggle to understand...
That they were in love!!!


I also liked Zane's son. He was adorable when his bitchy mother doesn't poisoning him against his "father"...


So, the conclusion is that i enjoy that book even though the main characters frustrated me a little bit...
But i really like the storyline and that fuckin' overturn with Jordan???
Unbelievable!!!
I knew that something was wrong with him, but i didn't realize the depths in his twisted mind...

It was a good book. Period.
And now, i have to find out what was the deal with Lili's past....

***ARC kindly provided from publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***

[Cristina]

DNF - NO RATING



Unfortunately this novel did not manage to keep me wanting to read it...

Not bad writing style...it's just the perfect example of...



*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Jacqueline's Reads]

FREEEBIE http://amzn.to/1BiZ9Ov

[Kari March · Rating 5 out of 5]

***REVIEW***
This book is seriously like....OMG....Sooooo freaking good! You will fall in love with the characters in this book right from the get go! This is a story about Lili and Zane, two very broken friends. The opening scene in this book is amazing! Living in Vegas, Lili and Zane are friends that help each other out when it comes to the opposite sex. Rescuing each other from the tourists at the club and helping each other hook up with them too. Very early in the story we meet Lizzie! The Bitch aka Zane's ex-wife. Wanting to protect her friend, Lili helps Zane when Lizzie won't leave him alone. Soon feelings are developed between Lili and Zane but they are blind to it. At times you want to shake them by the shoulders and yell at them!

As the story goes on, there are a mix of plot twists that you would never expect! Let me tell ya, you are in for one roller coaster ride of an adventure and just when you think you have pulled into the station, it takes off again! I will warn there is a cliffhanger at the end....not a huge one but just enough to make you mad! It is worth it though! Maegan's writing is great and she really makes you feel for the characters.

This book is AMAZING!! To top it off it is Maegan's first book too, so just imagine what she will be doing in the future! I happily give Perfectly Broken 5 kisses!!
For More Reviews go to www.bookwhores.weebly.com

[Deborah Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a hidden Gem from a new author that I hope does well. If you are looking for a feel good Disney love story though, look elsewhere. This is a gritty, high Drama tale with characters that are far from perfect. You really don't even like them sometimes.
The bad: The lives if the characters are very dramatic. Some of the extras feel pointless.
Now that being said it is set in Vegas so dramatic is completely okay and the extras I speak of do not detract from the story in anyway.
The Good: The Characters, The Story, The Setting, and I have to explain why the setting is great. Yes, it is set in Vegas but no, you are not forced to endure the glitzy, fake Vegas strip and casinos, scene after scene, following some tourists through their idea of Vegas. Theses characters live there, work there and play there. The fact that it is Vegas is only a small part of a very good story, not a main selling feature if a bad story. I won't spoil any of the book here but I will say that I LOVE TISH!!! I am ready to throw Kas out and marry Tish myself!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5

Wow. I just devoured this book. There was no cliche plotline, no cliche characters, no cliche sex scenes. Rather it was just a great story of two friends and their crazy, twisted path to realizing they loved each other. Make no mistake, this is not a simple, sweet little love story. That crazy, twisted path I mentioned before really is that – it’s dramatic, funny, yet often dark, painful and unpredictable.

Lili and Zane are best friends and roommates. Lili is a tiny force to be reckoned with, and I loved her humor and strength. Zane is devoted to his friends and family, but he just can’t seem to separate himself from his past – men! Neither are able to form trusting relationships because of their pasts, but even without knowing just how deep the damage lies, the loyalty and trust they have for one another is beautiful. Together, you just know they will be epic if they could just realize it, stop making such stupid decisions, and damn is it a very frustrating journey at times!

The entire story is written with the understanding that there is something even bigger looming on the horizon, taunting you with the drama to come. And you just have to keep reading. With the twists and turns I just experienced, it absolutely delivered. Lots of drama, great characters. This was a great read for me and I honestly cannot wait for Unforgivably Broken to see how their story continues.

Find more reviews at www.rawbooksonline.com.

[Renee Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me from the very beginning. Zane and Lili are such intriguing characters. You feel the pain of their broken spirits and you want to know why they're so broken. You want to know their secrets and you want to heal them. You also want to slap them and say, "Seriously, how do you not see you're perfect for each other?" as they play wing man for each other playing the field. This book kept me in a constant battle of I need to get my stuff done, but I just want need a few more minutes to see what's going to happen. Those few minutes turned into hours because I couldn't walk away. There are twists you will not see coming and you'll be left saying OMG--nooo--that was freaking awesome!! More times than I can count I wanted to climb into my kindle to hug these characters, laugh with them, comfort them and give them the kick in the ass they needed to get them on the right path. Watching the story unfold as two best friends realize they could find trust in each other after being broken so long and that love still exists in a world so full of betrayal was beautiful. I can't wait to see how book two unfolds and what's in store for Zane and Lili. I see Perfectly Broken being in the running for one of the best debut novels of 2014.

[Amie Morgado- We Stole Your Book Boyfriend · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book from the wonderful Maegan !! this book was phenomenal and so hard to believe it was the 1st book written by her.

What can I say about these characters besides I love them all except Lizzie of course !! I even liked Jordan at 1st.........

the twists and turns in this book are very unexpected and I seriously could not put the book down....I read it in 2 sittings....was up until 130am !!

I love the friendship between Lili and Tish and of course I love the burning friendship between Lili and Zane you just want to make them realize how dumb they are right from the start !!

The heartbreaking stories of their pasts and the struggles they go through to overcome them....the little things that stay slightly hidden but have you sucked in just for a small glimpse at what it could possibly be !! this is the kind of book I love !! Drives me crazy but I cannot stop reading it !!

I cannot wait for more and I honestly would love to read more about the whole gang.....prequels...novellas...book 2 or 3 or 4 !! Spin offs !!

Maegan is on the road to greatness !!

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won an ARC of this book.

I had so many books on my TBR that I was itching to dive into. Then I won an ARC of this book and had to push it to the front of the list so I could get my review up in a timely manner. I am so GLAD I won this ARC. This book was AMAZING!!!! I didn't want to put it down at all. When my eyes were fighting to stay open I cursed them. Once I started reading the book I had no idea just how crazy things would get. I loved Lili and Zane's relationship from the get go. They were each other's wing man in a sense. I knew there was something more there. I loved all the characters in this book. Except Paige!!! lol! Once I neared the end of the book I was happy to know that things seemed settled. I didn't want the book to end with a MAJOR cliffhanger. I was beginning to think the next book in the series was going to focus on another character. That was until the final paragraph happened. Then shit hit the fan. I can not wait for the next book to come out to see what happens when everyone's skeletons in their closets are revealed. It's gonna be a long few months waiting for the next book but I'm super excited to read it.

[Sakura · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I think that trust is for people who want to get hurt. Love is just a ploy to get someone to trust you and then it's all just lies disguising themselves as kind words. But, in the end, no matter how much perfume you spray on a pile of shit, it still stinks."~Lili

Lili and Zane are the best of friends. A shared disbelief in the concept of love brought them together.
These two had a really great relationship. They backed each other up whenever the other needed them. Whether it was babysitting, work, or picking up someone at the bar, they were there for each other. Though it's clear for the reader and everyone else around the characters, Lili and Zane don't realize just how perfect they are for each other.

The prologue certainly had a strong pull for my attention. It sets up a dramatic and suspenseful scene. I was hooked only to then be confused. The first chapter was a little confusing for me. I'm not sure how to explain my confusion, but for some reason I couldn't read the characters clearly. I had trouble connecting them to each other, as well as connecting with them. Fortunately, after a few pages it all seemed to fit into place and I had a better grasp of the characters.

Once I got to know more of Lili, she stole my heart. This girl is so underestimated by her own self. She doesn't register just how strong and resilient she can be. Despite her past, her secrets, and her insecurities, she is a tenacious and spirited young woman. She has flaws and moments of weakness just like every other human being and that made her all the more likable.

Zane. Oh, sweet and irritating Zane. I loved him. I hated him. I wanted to kiss him for days. I wanted to slap some sense into him. After being betrayed by people he loved and trusted, I'd say his reactions were plausible. It was natural to want to do hookups only and be hesitant with his feelings for Lili. When it came to his ex-wife.. Grrr! I wanted to dropkick her every time. I grew angry whenever Zane let her under his skin, but I also pitied him. I think he definitely redeemed himself though.

The main conflict in this story came as a shock to me. I didn't guess what was happening until a few pages before it was revealed. Once things were brought out in open, all the confusing puzzle pieces clicked into place.

This is a story of two broken people who are lost and must deal with their issues together. The story leaves us with a cliffhanger. A few issues are resolved in the end only to add on more. The ending opens up so many more questions, and I honestly have no clue where the story will lead us next.

Perfectly Broken is a great debut novel from Maegan Abel. This lovely author is going places! I look forward to seeing the rest of this series and her other works in the future.


*An eARC of this book was provided by the author for an honest review. This has in no way affected my review/opinion.

"You still don't see it. Sometimes, when you take the broken pieces and combine them, you get something even more beautiful."
I loved every broken piece of Lili, with every broken piece of me. Maybe that's what it took when you were damaged. Maybe, together, we were perfectly broken."

[Jess · Rating 3 out of 5]

Um, no.

This book had great potential and if the story had actually been about what the description said it was going to be about it would have been great, but the description is a LIE! A better name for it would be PROLOGUE.

All the background we get on all the characters sans one measly flashback seven chapters in, is in the description. If you're expecting any build-up or extensive character description- WARNING! THERE IS NONE!It's like Abel decided it would be better if she just skipped the beginning part of the story. I'm not trying to rag, but really? Confusing much? Disappointing much?

Another reason no lead-up stinks: First impression is everything. When the story is born in the middle of a dramatic situation, where the characters are unsure of each other and their surroundings that's the readers first impression of them; they don't know the characters like the author does, we don't know how their relationship really is, how they operate, what binds them together. When all I get is, "We've been best friends for two years", there's no emotional attachment developing.

Actions speak louder than words. The characters rarely do anything for each other. Sure there's sexual tension, there's awkward moments, and there's a lot of EXPLANATIONS of friendship, but when are they actually friends? If the reader doesn't have any attachment to the protagonists, what do they care if they get together or not. I want to be their best friend, the silent watcher who's invested in their future; not a bored bystander who's more interested in the barista getting my coffee order right (venti caramel frap with carmel on the bottom with extra whip). I need to see they care for one another other, not just them SAYING they care for one another.

Last thing, a little too much drama. If it wasn't for the obviously life threatening situation at the end, the climax wouldn't have been obvious. There was little to no major lead-up of tension and that was very disappointing.

I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone, and I warn any potential readers that the description is very misleading; you've been warned!

[Lynsey Sabin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gifted copy was provided by the author / publisher for an honest review.
Well bugger me that was bloody brilliant. That was full on "edge of your seat" stressful, theres angst, heartbreak, laughs but most of all amazingly good characters. I have absolutely loved Lili's sharp wit and retorts, Tish's loving attitude towards those he cares about and even Zane's abrutness. The connection all of these characters have is just immense and it comes through the pages so clearly from the first few pages. I have loved this author's writing style, it draws you in and refuses to let go until the last page then you are still left wanting more. I didn't dare put this book down in case I missed something it really is that good. Now there is a slight cliffhanger but it just makes you even more eager to read the next installment, which I'm hoping is very soon as I definitely need more of Zane in my life. I do have some questions thats in need of answering but I am hoping some of these will be answered in the next book. I could go on and on about how unbelievably amazing this book is but because I dont want to give to much away I will leave you all with this. Buy this book and read it don't let it sit on your kindle for months on end, I can guarantee that you will LOVE it.  I wished I could give more than 5 stars I really do.

[Ashley Beale · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The truth of the matter is, unless you keep running, the past catches up with you every time."

First off, let me say, I LOVED the prologue- it was strong, demanding, and you knew something crazy was going to happen. It drew me immediately and I knew I was going to be intrigued. Then the first chapter started and I got a LITTLE confused- but only by the introduction of the characters. I struggled for a moment to understand who they were and where they belonged. (Please keep in mind, I was sick & on some serious medication while reading this). However, by the second chapter it all made sense!! And thankfully so, because from there on out I LOVED THIS BOOK! I've already started recommending it to people! :)

Lili, ohhhh, Lili. Some of you may not like her- but I loved her. She was real. I LOVE characters with flaws (which is why any book I write, my characters are far from perfect). Lili loves sex. She loves Zane. She loves those close to her (which are very few). She is stronger than she gives herself credit for, and I loved seeing her strength grow. There were a few times I got irritated with her, but that is also what I loved about her.

Zane. *Swoon* Yup- I have a new book boyfriend ;) Zane is EVERYTHING I love in a guy. He is the sweetest asshole ever!! At one point he was in sweatpants and glasses- and the only thing I could picture in my head was a shirtless Zac Efron with glasses. A fantasy of mine for sure! There were also many times I wanted to slap him upside the head, but once again, that is what I adored about him and this book.

Other characters-
Tish, Kas, Jackson. *Sigh* They were wonderful additions to this book.
Jordan, (Adam), Lizzie- get ready to want to jump into the book and pound the ever loving shit out of these people! Errr.
Conner- the sweetest little boy ever! And the number reason I loved Zane the most! <3 <3

Confused? Good. READ THIS BOOK! <3 Oh, wait, you can't yet ;) But seriously... I promise you want to add this to your TBR list- and high up on it. It does end in a cliff hanger- and boyyyyy it made me sad. I actually enjoy books with cliffhangers, however, I really, really wanted to find out more about Kylee and now I have to wait until Summer of 2014. Oh, miss Abel, how I could shake you right now! :) But seriously- as far as debut novels go, Maegan Abel knows what she is doing. I laughed numerous times, my heart was pounding in many parts, I got anxious and excited and pissed off. It brought out a lot of emotions. Cannot wait for more!!!

I'm sending out questions for an interview- so make sure to come back and see! Plus, I'll be adding the buy links when it goes live, as well as my dream cast and a few teasers! :) :)

*I received an ARC for an honest review*
This is also added to my blog-> http://ashleybeale.blogspot.com where I will have purchase links, an interview, teasers & possibly more once Perfectly Broken goes live!! :)

[Books&Dreams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I gave this book 4.5 Stars and I rounded up>:)
This is book #1 in the Broken series
Cliffhanger yes. Not a major not able to live though.


This is Zane and Lili's story.

This is not a fluffy love story, it is about secrets and deception.
Zane doesn't realize that he is in love with Lili. And Lili is the same I don't think that she even knows the depths of her feelings for this man. They both have a friendship that is perfect, they love spending time together and they are best friends. Things start to change on his birthday when they dance to get Zane's ex off his back. They kiss and although they have kissed before there is something different in this kiss and they both feel it.

Lili meets a man, Jordan. He is not all that he appears to be and when things happen, Lili and Zane are both forced to face their feelings for each other. But with so much against them are they going to be torn apart or can they be Beautifully Broken together?


I loved this book, it had so much angst in it, I almost stopped breathing a couple of times. I kept looking down to see how much of the book that I had left. And I kept wondering if this was going to be a cliff hanger. I knew that all that needed to be said couldn't be done in the last 25 percent of the book. And it's not. Yes, it is a cliffhanger, but it's not one where your not going to be able to go on if you don't find out what happens.
But I hate to say that I don't think that fate is done with Zane and Lili and although they have been through so much already, I think it is just the beginning for these two.
And I am not sure that love is enough to keep them together. The side Characters in this book are also amazingly great. Tish and Kas. They stand beside their best friends and keep them together.
Paige who is introduced towards the end. I don't like her. But I am sure that is the way it was suppose to be.
Actually I wanted to punch her more then once. And wish I could have watched Lili do it! Maybe I will get what I want in book 2. Also I don't think it is done with his ex.
There is so much more to that story. And I can't wait to see that she gets what is coming to her. Thank you so much for this book Maegan it was great! I look forward to reading the rest in this series. <3

[Vasiliki · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC kindly provided for the exchange of an honest review from Netgalley***

5 stars!

This book is just fantastic!!!! The story is really good and really nicely written. The author has made an excellent job on so many different levels! The story is said from double POV (Lili and Zane) and it's amazing. In the beginning of each chapter there were a couple sentences just to upset me and keep me on edge (these sentences made sense in the end of the book. These sentences were brilliant! I was constantly on edge and in each chapter I was changing my mind about what will happen. A perfect teaser! The book has also an amazing prologue and a really nice epilogue! The story is very well structured and it really touched me. I couldn't find a single point that I thought that it was too easy or too boring or anything negative.

Lili is so intense. She doesn't want to feel and that's what she did to me...she made me feel!!! I could feel her and everything that was going on so much more because of her.

Zane is a typical man. Things are in front of him and he cannot see them! I liked him and his reactions and everything about him. He was real and that matters when you read a book like this.

The book stops with a cliff hanger! There are a lot of secrets that still need to be said and it was the first time that I didn't mind to read a book that left me with unanswered questions. The title of the book also couldn't be more accurate! I will definetely read the next book and I strongly recommend this book to everyone who likes a bit love, a bit suspense and lots of pain!

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Oh, f*ck me. This is what I get for not at least skimming reviews!! A DREADED CLIFFHANGER!!! It may be a small cliffhanger, but nonetheless, a cliffhanger. I'm sorry for the rant but I just HATE them with a passion (if I knew this book had one, I would have waited until at least the next book came out to read Perfectly Broken).

BUT, I am still happy to have read this book. I LOVE Perfectly Broken! Both Zane and Liliosa/Lili (for some reason her name sounds like it came out of Harry Potter) both warmed their way into my heart. I felt both of their pain from their hidden past (however we don't get to find out about it in this book). I connected deeply with Zane and Lili... they laughed, I laughed, and when they cried, I cried. Corny, I know but that's just how I felt throughout the book.

Actually I felt all the characters were great and I developed a bond with all of them...well, except for Lizzie (BITCH). I just wanted to hang out with this gang! This story is filled with so much drama and mystery, it will keep you on your toes. Perfectly Broken captivated me and entertained me with the amazing characters, witty dialogue, and the crazy plot throughout the book. Great first book from Ms. Abel! I can't wait to read more of the series...hopefully sooner rather than later. :D

[Jessika Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be the winner of this book.

Wait, this is a debut novel I just read??? no way!! yes way!!! holy hell! by the way this book is perfectly written, it seems as if Maegan has been writing for years!!!!

Lili, bad ass, foul mouthed, tell it like it is, Lili. I loved her!! she reminds me of myself is certain aspects! when I was reading, I felt as tho she was hiding something.

Zane, a complete swoon worthy, funny, smart ass paramedic. I would so love to see him in uniform! :) I love his friendship with Lili. I could feel the pull between those 2 from the very beginning! Lizzie, his baby mama, well she made me wanna jump thru the book and punch her!!

Tish and Kas, I loved them! Tish is Zane's brother and Kas is his girlfriend. I love their relationship. I love that they are tattoo artist. Nothing hotter right!

Then there is Jordan... well Adam really. I was like ok awesome, he is another hottie added into this book.... yeah my feelings quickly changed!


How do I even begin to describe what I thought of this book?? it was funny, sexy, steamy, sad, and a tear jerker! I absolutely loved it! Maegan will go very far with her amazing talent!! I cannot wait for book 2 or hell anything this woman write!! I would def recommend this book 10 times over!! Congrats on your debut novel, Lady!! It was amazing!!! xoxo

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Oh, f*ck me. This is what I get for not at least skimming reviews!! A DREADED CLIFFHANGER!!! It may be a small cliffhanger, but nonetheless, a cliffhanger. I'm sorry for the rant but I just HATE them with a passion (if I knew this book had one, I would have waited until at least the next book came out to read Perfectly Broken).

BUT, I am still happy to have read this book. I LOVE Perfectly Broken! Both Zane and Liliosa/Lili (for some reason her name sounds like it came out of Harry Potter) both warmed their way into my heart. I felt both of their pain from their hidden past (however we don't get to find out about it in this book). I connected deeply with Zane and Lili... they laughed, I laughed, and when they cried, I cried. Corny, I know but that's just how I felt throughout the book.

Actually I felt all the characters were great and I developed a bond with all of them...well, except for Lizzie (BITCH). I just wanted to hang out with this gang! This story is filled with so much drama and mystery, it will keep you on your toes. Perfectly Broken captivated me and entertained me with the amazing characters, witty dialogue, and the crazy plot throughout the book. Great first book from Ms. Abel! I can't wait to read more of the series...hopefully sooner rather than later. :D

[Katie Pettigrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hear it here first, Maegan Abel is going to make it big! She is going to get so popular. This book is like nothing I’ve read before. And I can’t even tell you much about it because, well my mouth dropped open and a gasped at the end of chapter 9. And if I tell you, it will give it all away. But what I will say is, awesome book by an awesome new author who threw a twist out there that I totally didn’t expect.
Oh, not only is there a twist, theres a bit of a cliffhanger at the end. Like, HELLO!, a huge freaking twist and a cliffhanger all in the same book!
So I know I’m not telling you much but what I will say is read this book. It good, like really freaking good, like one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. And its her first book which just blows me away.

[Southern Belle Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hear it here first, Maegan Abel is going to make it big! She is going to get so popular. This book is like nothing I’ve read before. And I can’t even tell you much about it because, well my mouth dropped open and I gasped at the end of chapter 9. And if I tell you, it will give it all away. But what I will say is, awesome book by an awesome new author who threw a twist out there that I totally didn’t expect.
Oh, not only is there a twist, theres a bit of a cliffhanger at the end. Like, HELLO!, a huge freaking twist and a cliffhanger all in the same book!
So I know I’m not telling you much but what I will say is read this book. It good, like really freaking good, like one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. And its her first book which just blows me away.

[Shari · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't care for Perfectly Broken. Both main characters were basically sluts, who didn't get a chance to redeem themselves by the end of this story. I didn't feel a connection between the main characters in this story, nor did I connect with them. I did not like how the hero kept going back to his ex.The story went from each of the main characters sleeping with other people and them denying their love for one another, to events happening that cause them to profess their love for one another. Her past, what is that all about? We are left with questions because the book ends in a cliffhanger.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley for an honest review.

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book one in the Broken Series. It ends in a cliffhanger but don't worry book two is already out.

Zane and Lili are the main characters. Both have a past they are trying to move get away from. When their friendship moves onto something more they need to fight for what they want.

This is a heart-thumping-loudly kinda read. It's got a great storyline with some brilliant twists and turns. Well done to the author on a great debut novel.

[Veronica245 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Didn't love it. A little too much put in one book action wise, not enough to relate and really get to know the main character.

[Ara Prado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Perfectly Broken (Broken #1)
Author: Maegan Abel
Publication Date: June 16, 2014
Published by: Forever Red LLC
Genre: Dark, Contemporary Romance, Suspense
Source: Copy Given by Netgalley

ARA'S NOTE:
The book cover and blurb intrigued me a lot and drove me to read and review Perfectly Broken. Okay, before I go to my review, I must say, my assumptions about this book were proven wrong. I cam't believe the number of times I was thrown in for a loop, and ended up saying, "I was not expecting that." Should I give examples? Let me think about it for a bit.


SYNOPSIS:
Zane Tishler moved in with his brother after his nightmare divorce to find that his brother had taken in a “stray”, a punk chick with a bad attitude. Liliosa Cortez found a place to start over in a city built for hiding. But when her roommate’s brother moved in she pegged him for a pretty boy with enough baggage to fill a semi and major hostility toward women. But now, after two years, Lili and Zane have become best friends and the perfect “wingmen.” They’ve developed a system for tagging and bagging tourists. No strings attached. They are partners in crime who have managed to have the time of their lives in the City of Sin.

Life would be perfect if they could keep it this way, but a new player in the game makes both Lili and Zane face the feelings they had not been prepared to notice. What happens when dangerous shadows from a forgotten past find their way into the neon spotlights? What happens when the fuse is lit on all those emotions they have deeply buried?

Can they survive the explosion or will the backlash tear them and everyone they love apart?

When two pasts become one present in the searing Nevada heat…
When two realities collide under the lights of Vegas…
When two lives are threatened due to secrets and lies…

What do you do when you find out your perfect world is Perfectly Broken?

**This is a New Adult Romance with dark themes**

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

CHARACTER BACKGROUND:
Liliosa Cortez, a.k.a. Lili, a.k.a Pixie, a.k.a. Lee, a.k.a. Something-else-I'm-not-aloud-to-say is a strong, independent, and confident woman, who is not afraid to take what she wants. She's very comfortable with her sexuality, and Get In, Get Out, Get a Move On is one of her mottos in life. But underneath the tough exterior, lies a fragile, insecure, and scared girl. One who is trying her damndest to run away from her past, and the people who wants her back.

Zane Tishler likes sex. He's even become more "adventurous" when his ex-wife pulledthe rug from under his feet and ruined [almost] everything that is good in his life. But he's getting better now, and is discovering new things about himself and his heart. Will he be able to love again though? And will he be loved back?

TO LOVE:
Okay, first thing that I loved about the book is Lili. Second thing, the relationship Lili and Zane have. Third, the tight bond that their "family" has. Fourth, the entire story. Fifth, the sex. I can go on and on, but I'd like to delve deeper into the reason why I loved these things. Let's begin!

Lili just made it in my list of favorite heroines. She's just...AWESOME! She's witty, sexy, a wonderful friend, tough, and mysterious. There's no dull moment with her, and one cannot simply predict what she's going to do! Example...and also spoiler alert: she insists that she doesn't dance, but when Zane needed rescuing, she saved him by dragging him onto the dance floor. She dances horribly for a moment, until the she-devil started gyrating on Zane. That's when she showed her true dancing abilities. She's freaking wicked! I was totally picturing a Step-Up type of dance-off happening.

Next up, Zane and Lili's "relationship". It would seem as though they are in a contest of "Who has the most sexual partners", but they're also each other's buffer. They flirt, they kiss, they grope each other--almost everything short of actually doing "something". However, their dynamic change, and things become sweet, painful, and complicated between them.

The "Family Affair". No matter how small their group is, they're bond is unbreakable. They have each other's backs, they never leave anyone behind, and they will do anything for one another. It's a beautiful thing, really.

The story is full of surprises. There weren't a lot of people introduced, making the plot concentrated and not at all confusing, but the author was able to twist things around and she managed to shock the heck out of her readers. I know I didn't expect a couple (or more) of events in the story.

Lastly, the sex. Spoiler alert again!! Here's the deal-y-o, Lili and Zane never had sex in the book. They never did anything remotely close to being that intimate (i.e. oral, intense groping), but they did do the deed with other people, and it was deliciously described. It was simple, yet very intene. I absolutely loved it.

TO BLEH:
Why did Zane's sister have to make an appearance?! I understand that she wants to protect her brother, but she's a little too much. She's causing extra drama that is not at all needed, because there are too many things happening already. What else? The cliffhanger...why did it have to end there?? I need more!
SUMMARY:
5 stars for Perfectly Broken, no doubt about it. The book is the perfect mixture of romance, suspense, and drama. It's well-written, engaging, and entertaining. I will probably read it again, and I can't wait to read the next installment in thr series.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy of this book in return for an honest review

This book was really action=packed. There was not a single lull. It jumps right into the action, and doesn't let you go until right at the very end - meaning that I read it all in one sitting.

I really enjoyed reading about the characters - Lili especially. She was so fierce on the outside, but there was a lot more going on inside, too. Zane was interesting too, and I enjoyed his relationship with Conner, but I thought that Zane made some poor decisions that annoyed me more than Lili.

When we start the novel, all of the characters know each other, which takes a while to get used to, because you don't get the backgrounds or anything right away. The relationships are pre-made and already strong. I would've liked more about Zane and Lili's past together, and I think because we jump into the action right away, you don't get to see them interact normally before things get intense and you see their more-than-friendship feelings come about.

Also, this book ends without you knowing anything about Lili's past - I think the idea is that you have to read the next book in the series to find out. However, it's hinted at so many times and becomes such a big catalyst for what happens, that I feel it's a bit of a cop out not to tell us at all. This book does end on a cliffhanger, as well, so it sort of feel like nothing is tied together.

This is not a light-hearted book. It contains some very deep themes and violence. It was an engaging read and I do want to learn more about the characters.

[Danita B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a sappy, easy romance, this is not the book for you. This book is absolute perfection, and I'm still trying to grasp that this is a debut novel. I read books by authors that have been writing for years that don't come close to this book. Perfectly Broken is not shallow; there are so many layers that make it stand out above so many others in this genre. There is humor, tension, a lot of "what are you thinking?," drama, and suspense, and I loved every part of it.

The main characters: I usually don't like a lot of lead female characters because they tend to be too whiny and needy; Lili was the exact opposite. She was strong-willed, sure of herself, and didn't take crap from anyone. Zane: there are not enough words to describe Zane. Even though he is a little broken, he is sweet, caring, and protective of those that he cares about; basically, Zane is perfect even in his brokenness.

This is a spoiler-free review, so I won't get into the storyline too much. Zane and Lili each have things from their pasts that come back to haunt them and put them in danger. There is a major twist in the story that brings it all together. With that said, this story does end in what most will consider a cliffhanger; I see it more as unresolved issues. This book is definitely a must-read and I look forward to Unforgivably Broken, book 2 in the series, as well as any other future books by Maegan Abel.

(a complimentary copy was provided in return for an honest review)

[twobrokegirls · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOWZA!!! What's book. I absolutely loved it and never have I enjoyed a female lead more. Talk about fiesty, that girl is a firecracker for sure. She is intriguing, mysterious, broken, independent and longing for something she hasn't had. Why? Well not quite sure there is still a mystery there. Things not quite opened up and aired out. She cracks me up and breaks my heart.

Now onto the next character I love. Zane. Woo-wee. He has me all kinds of messed up. Makes me hot with passion and hot with anger. He had me torn up one minute and pissed off the next. But oh I love that man! He is broken too but no mystery there is was all the psych ex's fault along with his crazy ex best friend.

Now let's not forget tish and kad. Loved them both too. They were just as much a part of the story as lili and Zane. I loved them all.

I now have no nails left because it was a nail bitter. Had me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next heart racing moment and there were many. I was nervous, mad, happy, sad, and shocked.

Finally when things seem to pull together, BAM!!!!! The ending. Left me hanging. Now I'm trying to figure out what in the world has been going on with lili and honestly I have no clues, not even my guesses will work for this one because I know they will be so off.

The author did a awesome job for sure!!

[Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclosure: ARC received in exchange for honest review. All opinions are my own.

Perfectly Broken by Maegan Abel is not a fairy tale or a a fluffy story. This is a story of a broken life, running away from your issues, and finding where you actually belong. The story of Lili and Zane is not without lots of drama.

Life for Lili and Zane seems cut and dry. They are are each others wing man and they have a system down pat. Of course, we see from the outside how perfect they seem to be for each other. Unfortunately, it takes most of the book to knock some sense into these two. ;) I love how strong Lili acts and I wish that Zane wasn’t so stupid when it comes to his ex. This story is not a cotton candy love story, but it is gritty, honest, and moving.

Perfectly Broken is a cliffhanger and I SO want the next book – like now! Some of the issues are resolved by the end of the book, but another twist comes crashing in at the last minute. This is definitely a book to keep you on your toes (or glued to your eReader).

If you are looking for two broken souls that struggle to find where they belong, a twisted SOB, and some steamy sex this is your book.

[Brittany L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when you find that book that you can’t put down, the book that has words that are so vivid it feels like you know the characters and are living their story?

The book that captivates you, and brings you to your readers paradise, completely lost in the pages that are so wonderfully written?

...YES! THAT IS THIS BOOK!

It is hard not to love, Lili, and even though she is broken, she hides it well. Even though she is guarded, she is confident.

And then there is Zane… Zane is just as broken, guarded and confident as Lili, to put it more simply…

Zane is the man of my dreams, the perfect alpha for sure, not too aggressive or commanding, slightly cocky and protective of those he cares for.

The two of them are best friends, attempting to avoid the past and their problems while trying to conceal their feelings for each other from the other. There are several twists and turns throughout this book, I was caught off-guard so many times but I absolutely loved every minute of it.

[Michelle Holloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I was sucked into this story from the beginning! I love how spunky and free spirited Lili is. She has a good reason to be too. Running from her past she finds a place where she makes actual friends, and for her that is hard since she trust no one.
Tish is like her big brother, always protecting her. Their friendship runs deep, however its her relationship with Zane that truly runs deep.
Zane has been burned by love before and now he is not looking for anything other than a good time. And he finds that with whomever he wants, when he wants. But Lili has always been his friend, he always felt the need to protect her. When Lili gets into some danger, Zane once again is going to protect her, but will he be able to this time? And will Lili and Zane be able to admit what they have been denying for so long? Highly recommend and can't wait for the next book!