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War of Hearts #1
Behind The Broken
A darkly heart-wrenching, swoon-worthy contemporary romance debut from Chloe C. Peñaranda. Book one of the Behind Darkness duet will leave you on the edge of your seat for the sequel to Rhett and Ana's tension filled, emotional story.
No one expects an angel to buy a ticket to hell.
I would have lived my life the righteous way, but my path of vengeance forced me to become the monster my uncle wanted to create. When I lie my way into playing bodyguard for the senator’s daughter, I don’t expect our fires to cross or to become addicted to the blaze. Anastasia Kinsley burns the ice that froze my heart years ago, but I need to find the will to resist. Chained up in the devil’s playground, I won’t let myself lose again.
When the devil came I couldn’t resist.
As the daughter of a hopeful new president, my life often doesn’t feel like my own. When my father assigns me a bodyguard during the run-up to the election, I’m determined to make sure they both see exactly why I don’t need their protection. But Rhett Kaiser is . . . unexpected. He ignites a match in me I didn’t know I held, and the closer we get, the more I’m drawn to use it to discover what lies behind his icy exterior.
No one expects an angel to buy a ticket to hell.
I would have lived my life the righteous way, but my path of vengeance forced me to become the monster my uncle wanted to create. When I lie my way into playing bodyguard for the senator’s daughter, I don’t expect our fires to cross or to become addicted to the blaze. Anastasia Kinsley burns the ice that froze my heart years ago, but I need to find the will to resist. Chained up in the devil’s playground, I won’t let myself lose again.
When the devil came I couldn’t resist.
As the daughter of a hopeful new president, my life often doesn’t feel like my own. When my father assigns me a bodyguard during the run-up to the election, I’m determined to make sure they both see exactly why I don’t need their protection. But Rhett Kaiser is . . . unexpected. He ignites a match in me I didn’t know I held, and the closer we get, the more I’m drawn to use it to discover what lies behind his icy exterior.
369 pages, Paperback
Published February 12, 2024
922 people are currently reading
9490 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews
April 5, 2025
4.5⭐️
This book takes you on a journeyyyyyy. The MMC Rhett starts off with some semblance of a moral compass, wanting to join the FBI, but after he goes through something traumatic he spirals into a darker, morally grey path that has him making dangerous choices. The shift from someone just trying to do the right thing to a cold-blooded killer is wild.
Then there's the fake dating trope, which always promises some serious tension, and this one delivered.
One thing I absolutely loved is the dynamic between the two main characters. From her perspective, she can't help but be drawn to how alluring and hot he is but his chapters on the other hand, reveal an obsessive fixation on her, it's quick and fucking intense, and I ate it up(tracker on her phone at their first meet and greet 🤭)
The way he constantly notices her every little action, from the way she fidgets to the smallest details about her. Like it’s one thing to just say a man is obsessed and it’s another thing completely to show all the ways that he IS obsessed. Moral of the story is I’m actually obsessed with agent Rhett Kaiser 🥵🤭🧎🏼♀️
Rhett is undeniably damaged, carrying the weight of guilt and emotional turmoil. He struggles with wanting to love her while being haunted by his past, and that internal conflict makes him both a compelling and heartbreaking character. It's clear he’s trying to break free from his pain, but it’s not easy for him
Anastasia is the kind of character you can’t help but root for. She accepts him, flaws and all, and doesn’t shy away from supporting him through his struggles. Rather than letting jealousy take over, she helps him process his past and heal, she is for sure the epitome of a ride or die FMC. It’s honestly super refreshing.
I love when a couple is written so seamlessly together, but what I love even more is when I find myself really liking each character individually.
The chemistry between them is undeniable🔥🔥AND YALL THIS SPICE HAD ME IN A CHOKEHOLD!! Like this book was so unbelievably hot because Rhett is so effortlessly sexy, every move this man makes has fucking swag.
I must have annotated 1000 times I cannot believe I fell this hard for a blonde MMC😭😭. His flirting game was a 10/10 and the way that this man could back up EVERYTHING that he was saying
“ 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝒻𝓊𝒸𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓈𝑜𝒶𝓀𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝑒, 𝒹𝒾𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓉𝓊𝓇𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝑜𝓃 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝒷𝒾𝓇𝒹? 𝓇𝓊𝓃𝓃𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒻𝓇𝑜𝓂 𝓂𝑒 𝓀𝓃𝑜𝓌𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒’𝓈 𝓃𝑜𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝑔𝑜 𝐼 𝓌𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃’𝓉 𝒻𝒾𝓃𝒹 𝓎𝑜𝓊”
This book had a little bit of everything and the ending brings a lot of plot points together but it did feel a bit like an information dump. However, since this is part of a duet, Im thinking that the next book will flush out the storyline more. Overall, the balance of plot and spice was just right, and I’m excited to see where this couple’s journey goes next. I just know shit is about to hit the fan in book 2, and I am sit sat for it.
This book takes you on a journeyyyyyy. The MMC Rhett starts off with some semblance of a moral compass, wanting to join the FBI, but after he goes through something traumatic he spirals into a darker, morally grey path that has him making dangerous choices. The shift from someone just trying to do the right thing to a cold-blooded killer is wild.
Then there's the fake dating trope, which always promises some serious tension, and this one delivered.
One thing I absolutely loved is the dynamic between the two main characters. From her perspective, she can't help but be drawn to how alluring and hot he is but his chapters on the other hand, reveal an obsessive fixation on her, it's quick and fucking intense, and I ate it up(tracker on her phone at their first meet and greet 🤭)
The way he constantly notices her every little action, from the way she fidgets to the smallest details about her. Like it’s one thing to just say a man is obsessed and it’s another thing completely to show all the ways that he IS obsessed. Moral of the story is I’m actually obsessed with agent Rhett Kaiser 🥵🤭🧎🏼♀️
Rhett is undeniably damaged, carrying the weight of guilt and emotional turmoil. He struggles with wanting to love her while being haunted by his past, and that internal conflict makes him both a compelling and heartbreaking character. It's clear he’s trying to break free from his pain, but it’s not easy for him
Anastasia is the kind of character you can’t help but root for. She accepts him, flaws and all, and doesn’t shy away from supporting him through his struggles. Rather than letting jealousy take over, she helps him process his past and heal, she is for sure the epitome of a ride or die FMC. It’s honestly super refreshing.
I love when a couple is written so seamlessly together, but what I love even more is when I find myself really liking each character individually.
The chemistry between them is undeniable🔥🔥AND YALL THIS SPICE HAD ME IN A CHOKEHOLD!! Like this book was so unbelievably hot because Rhett is so effortlessly sexy, every move this man makes has fucking swag.
I must have annotated 1000 times I cannot believe I fell this hard for a blonde MMC😭😭. His flirting game was a 10/10 and the way that this man could back up EVERYTHING that he was saying
“ 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝒻𝓊𝒸𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓈𝑜𝒶𝓀𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓂𝑒, 𝒹𝒾𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓉𝓊𝓇𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝑜𝓃 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝒷𝒾𝓇𝒹? 𝓇𝓊𝓃𝓃𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒻𝓇𝑜𝓂 𝓂𝑒 𝓀𝓃𝑜𝓌𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒’𝓈 𝓃𝑜𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝑔𝑜 𝐼 𝓌𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃’𝓉 𝒻𝒾𝓃𝒹 𝓎𝑜𝓊”
This book had a little bit of everything and the ending brings a lot of plot points together but it did feel a bit like an information dump. However, since this is part of a duet, Im thinking that the next book will flush out the storyline more. Overall, the balance of plot and spice was just right, and I’m excited to see where this couple’s journey goes next. I just know shit is about to hit the fan in book 2, and I am sit sat for it.
February 7, 2024
“I know the real story of a broken man and a lost woman who found each other through the most unlikely of means”
-Bodyguard Romance
-vengeance arc
-Redemption
-Morally Grey MMC/ Obsessed With Her
-Criminal Underworld
-High Stakes
-Dark/Scarred Past
-Emotional
-Spicy
I am a big fan of Chloe’s writing so when I saw the author was releasing her debut contemporary romance book this year, I couldn’t wait to read it and I’m so happy as it didn’t disappoint.
A bodyguard romance between a morally grey MMC with a tortured past and the daughter of a senator. It has a revenge arc, high stakes and plenty of spice.
The plot is fast moving and developed well as we delve through the criminal underbelly, with enough detail and moving at a fast pace while keeping you completely engaged to the point where you didn’t want to put it down.
Rhett and Ana had insane chemistry and it was a slow build. From the start you think the Fmc Ana has everything, being the daughter of a senator you slowly see she has her struggles while coping with anxiety and not being able to find her place in the world within the shadows of her father. Rhett comes from a dark past growing up within a crimnal enterprise that despite trying to run away from he wasn’t able to escape. When he takes over protecting Ana from a hit that has been placed on her he is still dealing with the traumatic muder of his fiancée a few years before.
Their relationship has everything I could of asked for sizzling chemistry, banter and slowly helping each other, with Ana helping Rhett to move on and realise that life is worth living and Rhett helping Ana grow stronger and start the process of breaking free of her cage.
I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next as we are left on a cliffhanger and i can’t wait to see how everything is resolved.
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read an arc in exchange for an honest review.
-Bodyguard Romance
-vengeance arc
-Redemption
-Morally Grey MMC/ Obsessed With Her
-Criminal Underworld
-High Stakes
-Dark/Scarred Past
-Emotional
-Spicy
I am a big fan of Chloe’s writing so when I saw the author was releasing her debut contemporary romance book this year, I couldn’t wait to read it and I’m so happy as it didn’t disappoint.
A bodyguard romance between a morally grey MMC with a tortured past and the daughter of a senator. It has a revenge arc, high stakes and plenty of spice.
The plot is fast moving and developed well as we delve through the criminal underbelly, with enough detail and moving at a fast pace while keeping you completely engaged to the point where you didn’t want to put it down.
Rhett and Ana had insane chemistry and it was a slow build. From the start you think the Fmc Ana has everything, being the daughter of a senator you slowly see she has her struggles while coping with anxiety and not being able to find her place in the world within the shadows of her father. Rhett comes from a dark past growing up within a crimnal enterprise that despite trying to run away from he wasn’t able to escape. When he takes over protecting Ana from a hit that has been placed on her he is still dealing with the traumatic muder of his fiancée a few years before.
Their relationship has everything I could of asked for sizzling chemistry, banter and slowly helping each other, with Ana helping Rhett to move on and realise that life is worth living and Rhett helping Ana grow stronger and start the process of breaking free of her cage.
I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next as we are left on a cliffhanger and i can’t wait to see how everything is resolved.
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read an arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2024
✨ Behind the Broken ✨
~ Bodyguard
~ High Stakes
~ Obsessed Morally Grey MMC
✨ My Thoughts ✨
I am a huge fan of Chloe's writing. So when she decided to put out a contemporary novel I freaked out. This book did not disappoint me. I loved everything about it. Ana story was so empowering to read. I was cheering her on the entire time. I am excited to see how she grows in book 2. I love seeing her find her voice and be free. Now Rhett... He is morally grey and possessive. Such a dreamy book boyfriend. Seeing his walls fall when it comes to Ana made me just melt. The tension and even angst in this whole book was just so so good. Also the forbidden romance aspect of the book too.....ugh I just loved it all. I am also a sucker for a bodyguard romance and it didn't let me down. The spice in this book has me melting into my couch. I loved the criminal world that was set up. My heart was beating the last hour of this book. My jaw hit the floor with that last chapter. I am dying for book 2. You are a fan of a darker romance and story I would definitely check this one out. I am so glad I made this book my first read of 2024.
Behind the Broken is book one in Behind Darkness Duet. This book is darker. While the romance itself isn't overly dark there are elements in this book that are. This is also Chloe's debut contemporary romance novel. Recommended for 18+. As always please check TW before reading. This book is out on February 13th, 2024.
✨ I want to thank Chole and her PA Lyssa for this early ARC. I am truly blessed to have this opportunity. These are my own true thoughts. ✨
~ Bodyguard
~ High Stakes
~ Obsessed Morally Grey MMC
✨ My Thoughts ✨
I am a huge fan of Chloe's writing. So when she decided to put out a contemporary novel I freaked out. This book did not disappoint me. I loved everything about it. Ana story was so empowering to read. I was cheering her on the entire time. I am excited to see how she grows in book 2. I love seeing her find her voice and be free. Now Rhett... He is morally grey and possessive. Such a dreamy book boyfriend. Seeing his walls fall when it comes to Ana made me just melt. The tension and even angst in this whole book was just so so good. Also the forbidden romance aspect of the book too.....ugh I just loved it all. I am also a sucker for a bodyguard romance and it didn't let me down. The spice in this book has me melting into my couch. I loved the criminal world that was set up. My heart was beating the last hour of this book. My jaw hit the floor with that last chapter. I am dying for book 2. You are a fan of a darker romance and story I would definitely check this one out. I am so glad I made this book my first read of 2024.
Behind the Broken is book one in Behind Darkness Duet. This book is darker. While the romance itself isn't overly dark there are elements in this book that are. This is also Chloe's debut contemporary romance novel. Recommended for 18+. As always please check TW before reading. This book is out on February 13th, 2024.
✨ I want to thank Chole and her PA Lyssa for this early ARC. I am truly blessed to have this opportunity. These are my own true thoughts. ✨
July 4, 2025
I really wanted to like this book but it just fell short. It was too much insta love / insta lust. Like this man only loves his fiance who passed away and then instantly wants to be with the girl he’s a body guard for?? Where was the tension, where was the angst? I did like the overall theme of the story, but by the time I got to the end of the book there were so many subplots and character overlaps that I was left confused.
I’m sure the second book in the duet would clear up my questions, but I’m just not interested.
I’m sure the second book in the duet would clear up my questions, but I’m just not interested.
January 20, 2024
I would like to begin by thanking the author for the e-ARC opportunity in exchange for a completely honest review of the book.
My rating is 4.5.
Chloe absolutely killed this contemporary debut. I've been a fan of Chloe's fantasy books for quite some time and so when I saw that a new dark contemporary romance was going to be released, I literally ran. The tropes in this are literally some of my favorites of all time and Chloe delivered on all fronts for me.
I would like to mention that it was fascinating to see Chloe try to gain her footing in this genre after all of the wonderful fantasy books that have been written. I am confident that she will only continue to glow and blossom in this genre as well.
Anastasia experienced such growth throughout the book and I have acquired such a deep love for her character. She has been stifled and restricted for a good portion of her life as a result of her father's political career. Anastasia really had to work through fighting for her freedom and individuality amidst all of the attention that her family name garners. When she is with Rhett she is able to fully share her wants + desires and finally feel what it means to be accepted wholeheartedly. Towards the end of the book, I literally kept screaming at how much of a badass she was becoming. As my friend and I kept saying, Anastasia was standing on business . She proved that she is willing to be Rhett's ride or die in this cruel world and we love to see it.
RHETT KAISER is without a doubt top tier book boyfriend material. The amount of pterodactyl unhinged audios my reading buddy and I sent was ridiculous. He was peak brooding, tortured, protective, and possessive. All traits that I love to see in my morally grey men. The things Rhett would say and do had me melting into my pillow as well as blushing like hell. I desperately want to know where I can find myself one of him because he was everything to me. Rhett has had such a difficult life since he was child and his brutal past is what has made him into the force that he is today. He has encased his shredded heart behind a protective barrier and slowly turned himself into a monster capable of catching other monsters. I stand by this man with my whole being. He is what the world needs and the work he does keeps the demons of the world at bay.
Rhett and Ana were such a delicious angsty pair. They both brought out the best in each other and provided one another with the kind of unconditional love that some people only dream about. Ana's journey involved becoming more confident in seeking what she wants, while Rhett's was based around allowing himself to love after great loss. My precious Rhett in particular had to really push through feelings of guilt, fear, and shame when it comes to his past, but he was willing to do anything for his beloved . These two establish such a profound connection that makes them willing to do absolutely anything for each other. They will do everything within their power to stay together, no matter how dark or wicked.
Since Chloe mentioned interconnected standalone, I spent a good portion of the time reading attempting to guess what characters will potentially get their own books. It was so fun to meet every single character and see the potential they might have in books to come. I am especially a fan of Rix, Allie, and Jeremy. The Xoid crew is literally who I aspire to be the kinds of friends I would want in these scenarios.
The last couple of chapters had me crying into my pillow. There was so much going on and I was stressed as hell. You know that feeling you get when you are watching a horror movie and the eerie music has your heart rate spiking until the monster pops out.... yup that's EXACTLY what I felt. The ending was exquisite and my reading buddy + I were yelling over it for a hot minute. We concluded that we need book 2 by the end of the year. Please and thank you.
I had an amazing time and really recommend this to anyone looking for an angsty, high stakes, and spicy romance between a politician's daughter and her scary bodyguard. Upon finishing this, I went to pester the author for a release date for the next book because I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT.
My rating is 4.5.
Chloe absolutely killed this contemporary debut. I've been a fan of Chloe's fantasy books for quite some time and so when I saw that a new dark contemporary romance was going to be released, I literally ran. The tropes in this are literally some of my favorites of all time and Chloe delivered on all fronts for me.
I would like to mention that it was fascinating to see Chloe try to gain her footing in this genre after all of the wonderful fantasy books that have been written. I am confident that she will only continue to glow and blossom in this genre as well.
Anastasia experienced such growth throughout the book and I have acquired such a deep love for her character. She has been stifled and restricted for a good portion of her life as a result of her father's political career. Anastasia really had to work through fighting for her freedom and individuality amidst all of the attention that her family name garners. When she is with Rhett she is able to fully share her wants + desires and finally feel what it means to be accepted wholeheartedly. Towards the end of the book, I literally kept screaming at how much of a badass she was becoming. As my friend and I kept saying, Anastasia was standing on business . She proved that she is willing to be Rhett's ride or die in this cruel world and we love to see it.
RHETT KAISER is without a doubt top tier book boyfriend material. The amount of pterodactyl unhinged audios my reading buddy and I sent was ridiculous. He was peak brooding, tortured, protective, and possessive. All traits that I love to see in my morally grey men. The things Rhett would say and do had me melting into my pillow as well as blushing like hell. I desperately want to know where I can find myself one of him because he was everything to me. Rhett has had such a difficult life since he was child and his brutal past is what has made him into the force that he is today. He has encased his shredded heart behind a protective barrier and slowly turned himself into a monster capable of catching other monsters. I stand by this man with my whole being. He is what the world needs and the work he does keeps the demons of the world at bay.
Rhett and Ana were such a delicious angsty pair. They both brought out the best in each other and provided one another with the kind of unconditional love that some people only dream about. Ana's journey involved becoming more confident in seeking what she wants, while Rhett's was based around allowing himself to love after great loss. My precious Rhett in particular had to really push through feelings of guilt, fear, and shame when it comes to his past, but he was willing to do anything for his beloved . These two establish such a profound connection that makes them willing to do absolutely anything for each other. They will do everything within their power to stay together, no matter how dark or wicked.
Since Chloe mentioned interconnected standalone, I spent a good portion of the time reading attempting to guess what characters will potentially get their own books. It was so fun to meet every single character and see the potential they might have in books to come. I am especially a fan of Rix, Allie, and Jeremy. The Xoid crew is literally who I aspire to be the kinds of friends I would want in these scenarios.
The last couple of chapters had me crying into my pillow. There was so much going on and I was stressed as hell. You know that feeling you get when you are watching a horror movie and the eerie music has your heart rate spiking until the monster pops out.... yup that's EXACTLY what I felt. The ending was exquisite and my reading buddy + I were yelling over it for a hot minute. We concluded that we need book 2 by the end of the year. Please and thank you.
I had an amazing time and really recommend this to anyone looking for an angsty, high stakes, and spicy romance between a politician's daughter and her scary bodyguard. Upon finishing this, I went to pester the author for a release date for the next book because I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT.
February 23, 2025
4.5 for this one
Absolutely loved it. Couldn't out it down. Now need to read the next one. Forbidden romance, bodyguard, mafia/underground criminals, it had everything and RHETT is everything. Oh my what a character, fell in love instantly lol
Absolutely loved it. Couldn't out it down. Now need to read the next one. Forbidden romance, bodyguard, mafia/underground criminals, it had everything and RHETT is everything. Oh my what a character, fell in love instantly lol
January 17, 2024
Rating: 4.5✨
Spice: 2.75🌶️
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. Like always, this review is voluntary & honest.
WOW! Okay listen, I knew as soon as Chloe announced she would be writing a contemporary romance that it would be absolute perfection. And BOY did she deliver with this one. I mean, we’ve got a bodyguard x presidential candidate’s daughter romance, which means FORBIDDEN GOODNESS. The chemistry, the tension, the HEAT & PASSION between these two! You could feel it all through the writing, picture every single moment. Absolute chef’s kiss.
Now, if you know me & you’ve seen or read my previous reviews, then you know I’m a fan of Chloe’s writing & books she has written. So, seeing her find her “author’s voice” as a contemporary romance writer was so amazing to see as it developed throughout the book. And what I mean by this is that her voice as a romantasy writer is a bit different from her writing in this contemporary romance, but I LOVED that because it is amazing to see talented authors find range in their writing.
Now starting with Anastasia, one thing my friend & I kept saying during our buddy read is that Ana STAYED STANDING ON BUSINESS. Her growth from the beginning of the book all the way to end had me screaming all of the “YES QUEEN” s. Lowkey thought, “I want to be her when I grow up.” I loved seeing the references of a bird within a cage when discussing Ana’s personality in the beginning of the book, mainly because we got to see the cage’s door slowly start to open while also watching as the bind prepared itself to fly. I feel like that is the best way to summarize her growth in this first book, similar to watching as a flower steadily begins to flourish. It definitely makes the excitement to continue Ana’s journey in the second book that much BIGGER.
Rhett Kaiser has become a top favorite book boyfriend. He is the blueprint, the delicious possessive & protective MMC who will have your knees going weak. I don’t make the rules, it just is what it IS. This man’s past is one that constantly haunts him & shaped him to the ruthless, intimidating man that prefers to fight fire with fire, except there are no limits to how far he will go for vengeance & to hold those who hurt others in the most horrible ways accountable for their actions… and also regret their actions until the end of their days. Also, the way this man TALKS. It immediately had me a blushing, screaming mess that was constantly melting into a puddle. Best way to summarize it, HE HAD ME ACTING UP.
The effect that Ana & Rhett had on one another was so powerful & beautiful. They both brought one another back to the light, Ana learning to be confident in who she is & to go after her dreams and what she wants and to most importantly THRIVE. Rhett learning that what is out of our control should not be something we blame or punish ourselves for, that he is worthy of happiness, of love. It always feels so fulfilling to see two people find another & realize they’ve found the missing piece to making them whole.
Not that Chloe is making this a romance filled with happiness & rainbows, NOPE. The ending had me wanting to throw hands with multiple characters while screaming, “CHLOE YOU ARE EVIL,” over & over again. There were also moments that had me like, “WHAT IS HAPPENING.” As always, there are side characters that you just immediately get hooked by & are completely invested in their stories. There are parts that also have you guessing which characters may be getting their own books in the future & possible pairings, so I cannot wait to see if I was right on any of those! I’m fully invested.
If this book sounds like one you’d be interested in, I definitely think you should give it a shot! I was hooked from beginning to end & cannot wait for the second book in this duet to be in my hands! 🖤
Spice: 2.75🌶️
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. Like always, this review is voluntary & honest.
WOW! Okay listen, I knew as soon as Chloe announced she would be writing a contemporary romance that it would be absolute perfection. And BOY did she deliver with this one. I mean, we’ve got a bodyguard x presidential candidate’s daughter romance, which means FORBIDDEN GOODNESS. The chemistry, the tension, the HEAT & PASSION between these two! You could feel it all through the writing, picture every single moment. Absolute chef’s kiss.
Now, if you know me & you’ve seen or read my previous reviews, then you know I’m a fan of Chloe’s writing & books she has written. So, seeing her find her “author’s voice” as a contemporary romance writer was so amazing to see as it developed throughout the book. And what I mean by this is that her voice as a romantasy writer is a bit different from her writing in this contemporary romance, but I LOVED that because it is amazing to see talented authors find range in their writing.
Now starting with Anastasia, one thing my friend & I kept saying during our buddy read is that Ana STAYED STANDING ON BUSINESS. Her growth from the beginning of the book all the way to end had me screaming all of the “YES QUEEN” s. Lowkey thought, “I want to be her when I grow up.” I loved seeing the references of a bird within a cage when discussing Ana’s personality in the beginning of the book, mainly because we got to see the cage’s door slowly start to open while also watching as the bind prepared itself to fly. I feel like that is the best way to summarize her growth in this first book, similar to watching as a flower steadily begins to flourish. It definitely makes the excitement to continue Ana’s journey in the second book that much BIGGER.
Rhett Kaiser has become a top favorite book boyfriend. He is the blueprint, the delicious possessive & protective MMC who will have your knees going weak. I don’t make the rules, it just is what it IS. This man’s past is one that constantly haunts him & shaped him to the ruthless, intimidating man that prefers to fight fire with fire, except there are no limits to how far he will go for vengeance & to hold those who hurt others in the most horrible ways accountable for their actions… and also regret their actions until the end of their days. Also, the way this man TALKS. It immediately had me a blushing, screaming mess that was constantly melting into a puddle. Best way to summarize it, HE HAD ME ACTING UP.
The effect that Ana & Rhett had on one another was so powerful & beautiful. They both brought one another back to the light, Ana learning to be confident in who she is & to go after her dreams and what she wants and to most importantly THRIVE. Rhett learning that what is out of our control should not be something we blame or punish ourselves for, that he is worthy of happiness, of love. It always feels so fulfilling to see two people find another & realize they’ve found the missing piece to making them whole.
Not that Chloe is making this a romance filled with happiness & rainbows, NOPE. The ending had me wanting to throw hands with multiple characters while screaming, “CHLOE YOU ARE EVIL,” over & over again. There were also moments that had me like, “WHAT IS HAPPENING.” As always, there are side characters that you just immediately get hooked by & are completely invested in their stories. There are parts that also have you guessing which characters may be getting their own books in the future & possible pairings, so I cannot wait to see if I was right on any of those! I’m fully invested.
If this book sounds like one you’d be interested in, I definitely think you should give it a shot! I was hooked from beginning to end & cannot wait for the second book in this duet to be in my hands! 🖤
March 5, 2024
This was such a good debut novel of this genre for Chloe.
I fell in love with Chloe's fantasy books and knew I had to give this and try and I am so glad I did.
This book has:
🌟 Forbidden Romance
🌟 Organised Crime families
🌟 Secret Pasts
🌟 Privileged lives
🌟 Morally grey MMC
🌟 Vengeance
I would of liked the characters to take a bit longer falling for eachother but that is a minor gripe of mine.
I can't wait for the next book.
I fell in love with Chloe's fantasy books and knew I had to give this and try and I am so glad I did.
This book has:
🌟 Forbidden Romance
🌟 Organised Crime families
🌟 Secret Pasts
🌟 Privileged lives
🌟 Morally grey MMC
🌟 Vengeance
I would of liked the characters to take a bit longer falling for eachother but that is a minor gripe of mine.
I can't wait for the next book.
February 13, 2024
5✨
2.5🌶️
🖤First I want to thank Chloe and her PA, Lyssa, for the eARC opportunity. As always this review is completely voluntary and honest.
🖤 If you’ve followed my reviews for a while now, you know I’m always reading fantasy romance. Rarely do you see me pick up a contemporary. But I absolutely love Chloe’s other series (Nytefall, and An Heir Comes to Rise). Pretty much if Chloe writes it I’m going to read it 😂. Chloe’s writing is just one that I constantly find myself gravitating towards and wanting to pick up. Behind the Broken is by far one of my favorite books of hers and in general.
🖤 Behind the Broken is a Dark Contemporary Romance, so make sure to check the triggers. This book was everything I need in a contemporary. The high stakes, the romance, the characters. Apparently I need vi0lence in my books if it’s not fantasy 😂.
🖤Ana was a beautiful character. She comes from a privileged background/family but she doesn’t allow that to define her. She’s smart, brave, and compassionate. She doesn’t expect things to be handed to her. If anything she wants to get away from the privilege.
🖤 Rhett. Ohhhhh this man. He’s experienced so much in his life. My heart broke for him from the first chapter. But he takes it in stride. He took his pain and made something from it. Taking the bodyguard job to a stuck up rich girl to get some information was meant to be simple and quick. But he wasn’t expecting Ana to be so much more than that. He wasn’t planning to care for someone again. There are so many layers to these characters and I love them both so so much.
🖤 The plot had me invested from the beginning. The high stakes, the vengeance arc, ughhhh I loved it all. You honestly need to just experience this book.
🖤I also want to mention to any An Heir Comes to Rise readers, I was talking with friend and we both noticed how Ana and Rhett are reminiscent of Faythe and Reylan. So if you love those characters and their relationship you will been in love with Rhett and Ana too 🖤
RUNNNNN for this book!
2.5🌶️
🖤First I want to thank Chloe and her PA, Lyssa, for the eARC opportunity. As always this review is completely voluntary and honest.
🖤 If you’ve followed my reviews for a while now, you know I’m always reading fantasy romance. Rarely do you see me pick up a contemporary. But I absolutely love Chloe’s other series (Nytefall, and An Heir Comes to Rise). Pretty much if Chloe writes it I’m going to read it 😂. Chloe’s writing is just one that I constantly find myself gravitating towards and wanting to pick up. Behind the Broken is by far one of my favorite books of hers and in general.
🖤 Behind the Broken is a Dark Contemporary Romance, so make sure to check the triggers. This book was everything I need in a contemporary. The high stakes, the romance, the characters. Apparently I need vi0lence in my books if it’s not fantasy 😂.
🖤Ana was a beautiful character. She comes from a privileged background/family but she doesn’t allow that to define her. She’s smart, brave, and compassionate. She doesn’t expect things to be handed to her. If anything she wants to get away from the privilege.
🖤 Rhett. Ohhhhh this man. He’s experienced so much in his life. My heart broke for him from the first chapter. But he takes it in stride. He took his pain and made something from it. Taking the bodyguard job to a stuck up rich girl to get some information was meant to be simple and quick. But he wasn’t expecting Ana to be so much more than that. He wasn’t planning to care for someone again. There are so many layers to these characters and I love them both so so much.
🖤 The plot had me invested from the beginning. The high stakes, the vengeance arc, ughhhh I loved it all. You honestly need to just experience this book.
🖤I also want to mention to any An Heir Comes to Rise readers, I was talking with friend and we both noticed how Ana and Rhett are reminiscent of Faythe and Reylan. So if you love those characters and their relationship you will been in love with Rhett and Ana too 🖤
RUNNNNN for this book!
January 13, 2025
ESP/ENG
“Behind the broken” es el segundo libro que leo de la autora (segundo ARC también) y debo decir que me ha gustado mucho. Al principio pensaba que la historia no iba a dar para una calificación mayor a 3.5 estrellas, pero al final tuve que darle 4.
Ha tenido un ritmo que no ha dejado nada por fuera. Ha cubierto lo que tenia que cubrir. Empezamos conociendo a nuestros protagonistas. Ana es la hija de uno de los candidatos a la presidencia de los Estados Unidos y por ende debe estar fuertemente protegida. Su padre le contrata un nuevo guardaespaldas, cosa que a ella no le hace gracia, pero nunca esperó que ese guardaespaldas se convirtiera en algo más. Para Rhett, Anastasia es solo un trabajo, un medio para un fin. Después de años de buscar a su tío y vengarse, encuentra un trabajo que lo puede acercar a esa meta. Esperaba que fuera fácil, cuidar a una princesa mimada y malcriada no debería de ser tan complicado, pero encontró algo completamente diferente.
Al principio Ana no tenía mucha personalidad. Me parecía muy normal para ser la protagonista. Rhett pensaba en ella como una mujer fuerte y capaz, pero yo no lograba verlo. Sin embargo, entendí que fue su inocencia y su empatía lo que atrajo a Rhett. Se dieron grandes momentos donde ella, sin pelear, sin saber ninguna habilidad, demostró fortaleza. Espero su avance con muchas ganas, ya que todo indica que en el segundo libro ella va a enfrentarse a pruebas donde tendrá que abrasar su oscuridad interior. ¿Renunciara a su inocencia?
Rhett. El merece conseguir esa venganza tan ansiada. De verdad. Tuvo que convertirse en el monstruo que nunca quiso ser para cazar al monstruo del que huyó. Nuestro héroe moralmente gris. Alguien que ha abrazado su oscuridad interior y que hará lo que sea para proteger a los suyos. Rhett desde un inicio se mostró como el héroe torturado. No había ninguna duda de que era el protagonista. Y hasta el final, lucho por proteger a Ana, ya no era un trabajo, era su corazón. Por supuesto que nos enamoramos de él.
Ambos sienten una extraña atracción hacia el otro que intentan resistir con toda su fuerza. Pero al final no pueden. Y sucumben contra el magnetismo que siempre los envolvió.
La autora indico que probablemente sea una saga de seis libros. Con los dos primeros siendo de la misma pareja, Ana y Rhett. Y la verdad espero que sea así porque hay personajes que intrigan mucho y posibles parejas. Todos los amigos de Rhett me gustaron mucho y quiero saber que paso con Allie, no me esperaba para nada lo que sucedió con ella. Liam también es bien intrigante.
El libro me envolvió poco a poco. Me rompió el corazón al inicio para no dejarlo en el primer capi y preguntarme a cada momento que pasara. Y después me atrapó paso a paso, poquito a poco, con la historia de la pareja principal. Un buen debut fuera del género fantástico para la autora.
---
“There´s a war in the underworld, and I´m going be the reason they both go down in their battle.”
"Behind the broken" is the second book I read by the author (second ARC as well) and I must say I really liked it. At first I thought the story wasn't going to work for a rating higher than 3.5 stars, but in the end I had to give it 4.
It has had a pace that has left nothing out. It covered what it had to cover. We start by meeting our main characters. Ana is the daughter of one of the candidates for President of the United States and therefore she must be heavily guarded. Her father hires her a new bodyguard, which she is not happy about, but she never expected that bodyguard to become something more. To Rhett, Anastasia is just a job, a means to an end. After years of searching for his uncle and getting revenge, he finds a job that can bring him closer to that goal. He expected it to be easy, taking care of a spoiled and bratty princess shouldn't be that complicated, but he found something completely different.
At first Ana didn't have much personality. She seemed very ordinary to me for a leading lady. Rhett thought of her as a strong and capable woman, but I couldn't see it. However, I understood that it was her innocence and empathy that attracted Rhett. There were some great moments where she, without fighting, without knowing any skills, showed strength. I look forward to her progress very much, as all indications are that in the second book she is going to face trials where she will have to sear her inner darkness. Will she give up her innocence?
Rhett. He deserves to get that long awaited revenge. He really does. He had to become the monster he never wanted to be to hunt the monster he ran from. Our morally gray hero. Someone who has embraced his inner darkness and will do anything to protect his own. Rhett from the start was shown as the tortured hero. There was no doubt that he was the protagonist. And until the very end, he fought to protect Ana, it was no longer a job, it was his heart. Of course we fell in love with him.
They both feel a strange attraction to each other that they try to resist with all their might. But in the end they can't. And they succumb to the magnetism that has always enveloped them.
The author indicated that it will probably be a six book saga. With the first two being about the same couple, Ana and Rhett. And I really hope this is the case because there are some very intriguing characters and possible couples. I really liked all of Rhett's friends and I want to know what happened with Allie, I didn't expect what happened to her at all. Liam is also very intriguing.
The book wrapped me up little by little. It broke my heart at the beginning, so that i would not leave it in the first chapter, and wondering every moment what happened. And then it caught me step by step with the story of the main couple. A good debut outside the fantasy genre for the author.
“I´m a broken man, Ana, but I´m yours.”
“Behind the broken” es el segundo libro que leo de la autora (segundo ARC también) y debo decir que me ha gustado mucho. Al principio pensaba que la historia no iba a dar para una calificación mayor a 3.5 estrellas, pero al final tuve que darle 4.
Ha tenido un ritmo que no ha dejado nada por fuera. Ha cubierto lo que tenia que cubrir. Empezamos conociendo a nuestros protagonistas. Ana es la hija de uno de los candidatos a la presidencia de los Estados Unidos y por ende debe estar fuertemente protegida. Su padre le contrata un nuevo guardaespaldas, cosa que a ella no le hace gracia, pero nunca esperó que ese guardaespaldas se convirtiera en algo más. Para Rhett, Anastasia es solo un trabajo, un medio para un fin. Después de años de buscar a su tío y vengarse, encuentra un trabajo que lo puede acercar a esa meta. Esperaba que fuera fácil, cuidar a una princesa mimada y malcriada no debería de ser tan complicado, pero encontró algo completamente diferente.
Al principio Ana no tenía mucha personalidad. Me parecía muy normal para ser la protagonista. Rhett pensaba en ella como una mujer fuerte y capaz, pero yo no lograba verlo. Sin embargo, entendí que fue su inocencia y su empatía lo que atrajo a Rhett. Se dieron grandes momentos donde ella, sin pelear, sin saber ninguna habilidad, demostró fortaleza. Espero su avance con muchas ganas, ya que todo indica que en el segundo libro ella va a enfrentarse a pruebas donde tendrá que abrasar su oscuridad interior. ¿Renunciara a su inocencia?
Rhett. El merece conseguir esa venganza tan ansiada. De verdad. Tuvo que convertirse en el monstruo que nunca quiso ser para cazar al monstruo del que huyó. Nuestro héroe moralmente gris. Alguien que ha abrazado su oscuridad interior y que hará lo que sea para proteger a los suyos. Rhett desde un inicio se mostró como el héroe torturado. No había ninguna duda de que era el protagonista. Y hasta el final, lucho por proteger a Ana, ya no era un trabajo, era su corazón. Por supuesto que nos enamoramos de él.
Ambos sienten una extraña atracción hacia el otro que intentan resistir con toda su fuerza. Pero al final no pueden. Y sucumben contra el magnetismo que siempre los envolvió.
La autora indico que probablemente sea una saga de seis libros. Con los dos primeros siendo de la misma pareja, Ana y Rhett. Y la verdad espero que sea así porque hay personajes que intrigan mucho y posibles parejas. Todos los amigos de Rhett me gustaron mucho y quiero saber que paso con Allie, no me esperaba para nada lo que sucedió con ella. Liam también es bien intrigante.
El libro me envolvió poco a poco. Me rompió el corazón al inicio para no dejarlo en el primer capi y preguntarme a cada momento que pasara. Y después me atrapó paso a paso, poquito a poco, con la historia de la pareja principal. Un buen debut fuera del género fantástico para la autora.
---
“There´s a war in the underworld, and I´m going be the reason they both go down in their battle.”
"Behind the broken" is the second book I read by the author (second ARC as well) and I must say I really liked it. At first I thought the story wasn't going to work for a rating higher than 3.5 stars, but in the end I had to give it 4.
It has had a pace that has left nothing out. It covered what it had to cover. We start by meeting our main characters. Ana is the daughter of one of the candidates for President of the United States and therefore she must be heavily guarded. Her father hires her a new bodyguard, which she is not happy about, but she never expected that bodyguard to become something more. To Rhett, Anastasia is just a job, a means to an end. After years of searching for his uncle and getting revenge, he finds a job that can bring him closer to that goal. He expected it to be easy, taking care of a spoiled and bratty princess shouldn't be that complicated, but he found something completely different.
At first Ana didn't have much personality. She seemed very ordinary to me for a leading lady. Rhett thought of her as a strong and capable woman, but I couldn't see it. However, I understood that it was her innocence and empathy that attracted Rhett. There were some great moments where she, without fighting, without knowing any skills, showed strength. I look forward to her progress very much, as all indications are that in the second book she is going to face trials where she will have to sear her inner darkness. Will she give up her innocence?
Rhett. He deserves to get that long awaited revenge. He really does. He had to become the monster he never wanted to be to hunt the monster he ran from. Our morally gray hero. Someone who has embraced his inner darkness and will do anything to protect his own. Rhett from the start was shown as the tortured hero. There was no doubt that he was the protagonist. And until the very end, he fought to protect Ana, it was no longer a job, it was his heart. Of course we fell in love with him.
They both feel a strange attraction to each other that they try to resist with all their might. But in the end they can't. And they succumb to the magnetism that has always enveloped them.
The author indicated that it will probably be a six book saga. With the first two being about the same couple, Ana and Rhett. And I really hope this is the case because there are some very intriguing characters and possible couples. I really liked all of Rhett's friends and I want to know what happened with Allie, I didn't expect what happened to her at all. Liam is also very intriguing.
The book wrapped me up little by little. It broke my heart at the beginning, so that i would not leave it in the first chapter, and wondering every moment what happened. And then it caught me step by step with the story of the main couple. A good debut outside the fantasy genre for the author.
“I´m a broken man, Ana, but I´m yours.”
April 11, 2025
4.5 STARS
I AM OBSESSED WITH ANASTASIA!! And the ending of this book is everything, will be picking up Inside The Wicked right now
I AM OBSESSED WITH ANASTASIA!! And the ending of this book is everything, will be picking up Inside The Wicked right now
February 1, 2024
"You think a little bird can survive in a pit of serpents?”
“You’re playing with fire, Miss Kinsley.”
“You came with matches, Agent, what did you expect?”
It’s official: this book and Rhett and Ana have stolen my heart. I literally woke up and was thinking
about the book and characters and everything that happened. What can I say? It’s bewitched me. I could literally talk about this book for hours, and cannot wait to re-read it. If I could get it ten stars I would.
There are no words (or maybe not enough) to express the love I have for this book and these characters and their story. I honestly want to find a way to pay homage to it at some point in the future/show off
my love for it (maybe something serpent related . . . ?) I would love to see art prints and other merch related – like serpent earrings – to this book and characters (if that ever happens I am so getting my hands on some to display out as I slowly make up my book merch collection to go along with my extensive amount of books). Anyway, I wanted to share my lengthy book review here because I just have to rave about this amazing book!!
First off, thank you so much to Chloe for the e-ARC of Behind the Broken that I received yesterday and the opportunity to read this story. I knew I would love this story and these characters as soon as I heard about it and saw the marketing for it, but I didn’t expect to fall as hard as I did for the story. I got this book at 10 A.M. yesterday and around 10:20 P.M. I was finished – well more like devoured – it. It’s been forever since I actually allowed myself to put aside other things and sit down and read all day, much less finish a book in a day. I don’t remember the last time I allowed myself time to, but BTB
warranted it. It grabbed my attention and didn’t let go. If I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about the characters and getting back to reading it. Chloe absolutely killed it with this novel, and I cannot wait to read the rest. BTB has definitely taken a spot amongst some of my favorite books that have stuck with me like ACOTAR, Rhett and Ana are definitely joining my favorite couples list from all the books I’ve read, and may I just say that even with having just read this one book of hers (I also own her Heir Comes to Rise series) Chloe has easily joined my always buy/favorite authors and is up there with SJM for me. Above all, she is just such an inspiration to me as a writer, and her and her stories give me even more determination to make my own author/writer dreams come true. I seriously wish I could pick her brain on her process and how she did it, because she is absolutely killing it and going places (and may I just say that her marketing and books are beautiful! And all the character art she has gotten done by so many amazing artists is to die for!).
I could go into a long conversation about this book, hence the length of this review. I will say that there
are certain elements that may be triggering to some, so please be sure to check the triggers and elements Chloe has listed on her social media and website before you read if you have any specific triggers that may be present in the book. Now onto the story.
Where do I start? Immediately, with the way the book opens, it catches your attention. And as the story
progresses, with each page and chapter passed, you just want to know what happens next. That’s in part to the intriguing setting, but even more so to her two mains, Rhett and Ana. In these two (as well as her other characters) she created deep and complex characters that you care about the moment you meet them. And the development with the characters! I absolutely loved watching how they helped each other heal and find their way through the dark, and seeing their own respective journey’s play out. Of how Rhett went to great lengths to stop absolutely horrible people and began to learn how to forgive himself for what
happened in the past and look to the future, and how Ana began coming into her own, growing her confidence, and growing into the woman we see at the end of the book. I also love that she got the tattoo and her choice in hair color because I want to get a tattoo and dye my hair that same color sometime soon! And the little bird nickname. SWOON. Who am I kidding, everything with them was
swoon worthy lol. I don’t want to mention much because I do not want to spoil anything for those who haven’t read it yet. Let’s just say I cannot wait to see how her and Rhett continue to grow and change both on their path together and as their own individuals after the journey these two went on in the first book, and that I am so excited for whoever hasn’t read this book to discover these character’s and their stories. Seriously, more people need to be read and be talking about this book!
And the tropes!! The touch her and die and ride or die couples are always a treat, and I loved how she
used them and the other tropes – like that inclusion I picked up on personally of touch him and die which I love as well – to craft her story.
I also love the spice and explicit content in the novel. What can I say? I’m a girl who loves that sort of stuff in my books and has it popping into my head at random times . . . which will be happening with this novel too now. And you just have to love how Rhett and Ana fell hard and fast and that forbidden romance aspect to the relationship. This was the first book I’d read that has a bodyguard romance which I did not know I needed but uh yeah turns out I needed it. And Chloe did such a great job writing it and weaving it all together in one constructive and intriguing story that I am still thinking about it even now. (Can I have what Rhett and Ana have please? Or at least a man like Rhett who SAYS/TALKS the way he does? Like my god I need this in my life). And the quotes in this book! I knew some of them from the posts she has posted (all of which I absolutely love), but let’s just say there will be several I will be tabbing when I go back through the book. And I loved how she tied in the quotes from the books bio into the story. I also loved the darker elements and overall realism to the book. I personally love reading books that aren’t afraid to go to the dark side of things (what can I say? I like dark and twisty/dark and realistic things) and explore the nitty gritty, and be real. That’s just one of the many thing I love. With everything, it stills feels real. Like something that could be going on somewhere in the world that most people don’t know about.
Also, while I was reading, because I knew there will be upcoming interconnected standalone novels, I was keeping an eye out for hints on who they could focus on, and let’s just say I have a few ideas/theories and cannot wait to see if I’m right.
And may I just say, that ENDING! I so did not see that coming, but as it got down to the last 30 or 40 pages or so I could just feel something was coming and things were going to go down and bad things were coming (things were going too good to have that many pages left) and boy did things come and Chloe delivered! The ending was absolutely evil, but as a writer myself I can respect it and honestly strive to be that evil (and I honestly would have done the same thing so I feel you girl lol). But as a reader . . . that hurt, and I absolutely cannot wait for the second novel and to see just how that cliffhanger is resolved! Ahh!
Until then, I’ll just be here in my feels (still deep in them even though it’d been a few hours at the time
I wrote this – this is definitely going to be one of those books for me that sticks with me long after I’ve
finished it) these next couple weeks while I catch up on Crescent City (I was in the middle of HOEAB but the second I saw I got an ARC I had to pause reading it yesterday to read BTB because I was not waiting any longer than I needed to to read it!) while I wait for the special edition of Behind the Broken to arrive so I can re-read it, tab it up, and feel all the feels once more (because when a book makes me feel a lot of things and tear up, etc., it’s doing its job) and re-immerse myself in this world and the characters stories. I cannot thank you enough for this incredible story, and the opportunity to read it and leave this review, Chloe. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
“You’re playing with fire, Miss Kinsley.”
“You came with matches, Agent, what did you expect?”
It’s official: this book and Rhett and Ana have stolen my heart. I literally woke up and was thinking
about the book and characters and everything that happened. What can I say? It’s bewitched me. I could literally talk about this book for hours, and cannot wait to re-read it. If I could get it ten stars I would.
There are no words (or maybe not enough) to express the love I have for this book and these characters and their story. I honestly want to find a way to pay homage to it at some point in the future/show off
my love for it (maybe something serpent related . . . ?) I would love to see art prints and other merch related – like serpent earrings – to this book and characters (if that ever happens I am so getting my hands on some to display out as I slowly make up my book merch collection to go along with my extensive amount of books). Anyway, I wanted to share my lengthy book review here because I just have to rave about this amazing book!!
First off, thank you so much to Chloe for the e-ARC of Behind the Broken that I received yesterday and the opportunity to read this story. I knew I would love this story and these characters as soon as I heard about it and saw the marketing for it, but I didn’t expect to fall as hard as I did for the story. I got this book at 10 A.M. yesterday and around 10:20 P.M. I was finished – well more like devoured – it. It’s been forever since I actually allowed myself to put aside other things and sit down and read all day, much less finish a book in a day. I don’t remember the last time I allowed myself time to, but BTB
warranted it. It grabbed my attention and didn’t let go. If I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about the characters and getting back to reading it. Chloe absolutely killed it with this novel, and I cannot wait to read the rest. BTB has definitely taken a spot amongst some of my favorite books that have stuck with me like ACOTAR, Rhett and Ana are definitely joining my favorite couples list from all the books I’ve read, and may I just say that even with having just read this one book of hers (I also own her Heir Comes to Rise series) Chloe has easily joined my always buy/favorite authors and is up there with SJM for me. Above all, she is just such an inspiration to me as a writer, and her and her stories give me even more determination to make my own author/writer dreams come true. I seriously wish I could pick her brain on her process and how she did it, because she is absolutely killing it and going places (and may I just say that her marketing and books are beautiful! And all the character art she has gotten done by so many amazing artists is to die for!).
I could go into a long conversation about this book, hence the length of this review. I will say that there
are certain elements that may be triggering to some, so please be sure to check the triggers and elements Chloe has listed on her social media and website before you read if you have any specific triggers that may be present in the book. Now onto the story.
Where do I start? Immediately, with the way the book opens, it catches your attention. And as the story
progresses, with each page and chapter passed, you just want to know what happens next. That’s in part to the intriguing setting, but even more so to her two mains, Rhett and Ana. In these two (as well as her other characters) she created deep and complex characters that you care about the moment you meet them. And the development with the characters! I absolutely loved watching how they helped each other heal and find their way through the dark, and seeing their own respective journey’s play out. Of how Rhett went to great lengths to stop absolutely horrible people and began to learn how to forgive himself for what
happened in the past and look to the future, and how Ana began coming into her own, growing her confidence, and growing into the woman we see at the end of the book. I also love that she got the tattoo and her choice in hair color because I want to get a tattoo and dye my hair that same color sometime soon! And the little bird nickname. SWOON. Who am I kidding, everything with them was
swoon worthy lol. I don’t want to mention much because I do not want to spoil anything for those who haven’t read it yet. Let’s just say I cannot wait to see how her and Rhett continue to grow and change both on their path together and as their own individuals after the journey these two went on in the first book, and that I am so excited for whoever hasn’t read this book to discover these character’s and their stories. Seriously, more people need to be read and be talking about this book!
And the tropes!! The touch her and die and ride or die couples are always a treat, and I loved how she
used them and the other tropes – like that inclusion I picked up on personally of touch him and die which I love as well – to craft her story.
I also love the spice and explicit content in the novel. What can I say? I’m a girl who loves that sort of stuff in my books and has it popping into my head at random times . . . which will be happening with this novel too now. And you just have to love how Rhett and Ana fell hard and fast and that forbidden romance aspect to the relationship. This was the first book I’d read that has a bodyguard romance which I did not know I needed but uh yeah turns out I needed it. And Chloe did such a great job writing it and weaving it all together in one constructive and intriguing story that I am still thinking about it even now. (Can I have what Rhett and Ana have please? Or at least a man like Rhett who SAYS/TALKS the way he does? Like my god I need this in my life). And the quotes in this book! I knew some of them from the posts she has posted (all of which I absolutely love), but let’s just say there will be several I will be tabbing when I go back through the book. And I loved how she tied in the quotes from the books bio into the story. I also loved the darker elements and overall realism to the book. I personally love reading books that aren’t afraid to go to the dark side of things (what can I say? I like dark and twisty/dark and realistic things) and explore the nitty gritty, and be real. That’s just one of the many thing I love. With everything, it stills feels real. Like something that could be going on somewhere in the world that most people don’t know about.
Also, while I was reading, because I knew there will be upcoming interconnected standalone novels, I was keeping an eye out for hints on who they could focus on, and let’s just say I have a few ideas/theories and cannot wait to see if I’m right.
And may I just say, that ENDING! I so did not see that coming, but as it got down to the last 30 or 40 pages or so I could just feel something was coming and things were going to go down and bad things were coming (things were going too good to have that many pages left) and boy did things come and Chloe delivered! The ending was absolutely evil, but as a writer myself I can respect it and honestly strive to be that evil (and I honestly would have done the same thing so I feel you girl lol). But as a reader . . . that hurt, and I absolutely cannot wait for the second novel and to see just how that cliffhanger is resolved! Ahh!
Until then, I’ll just be here in my feels (still deep in them even though it’d been a few hours at the time
I wrote this – this is definitely going to be one of those books for me that sticks with me long after I’ve
finished it) these next couple weeks while I catch up on Crescent City (I was in the middle of HOEAB but the second I saw I got an ARC I had to pause reading it yesterday to read BTB because I was not waiting any longer than I needed to to read it!) while I wait for the special edition of Behind the Broken to arrive so I can re-read it, tab it up, and feel all the feels once more (because when a book makes me feel a lot of things and tear up, etc., it’s doing its job) and re-immerse myself in this world and the characters stories. I cannot thank you enough for this incredible story, and the opportunity to read it and leave this review, Chloe. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
June 1, 2024
3.5 Stars
The writing took me a bit to get used to but I like the forbiddenness of this romance and how he is keeping secretssssss. Its always my fav in an angsty romance!
The writing took me a bit to get used to but I like the forbiddenness of this romance and how he is keeping secretssssss. Its always my fav in an angsty romance!
January 26, 2024
"I know the real story of a broken man and a lost woman who found each other through the most unlikely of means."
I will read anything Chloe writes so I was so privileged to be able to read an early ARC of this book. This is a bodyguard x presidential candidate's daughter so you know it will be a forbidden romance and it does not disappoint.
This is Chloe's contemporary debut and like her fantasy books, this one is full of fantastic world building, complicated characters, twists and turns, spice and heartbreaking moments. Chloe is a queen at drawing you in with characters that evoke tangible emotions which in turn make you feel the pain, longing and emotional.
Rhett and Anastasia had the most AMAZING chemistry with very real tension between the two of them. The push and pull was perfect which culminated into a real explosion of feelings. They both had a lot of character growth as individuals and together.
Chloe writes really great side characters that add a lot to the story and who doesn't friends that are like family?
This story has a real dark undertone so make sure to check any of the trigger and content warnings. The end of book 1 made me immediately want book 2 so I cannot wait to see the sequel to this fantastic story.
Thank you to Chloe and Lyssa for the eARC.
I will read anything Chloe writes so I was so privileged to be able to read an early ARC of this book. This is a bodyguard x presidential candidate's daughter so you know it will be a forbidden romance and it does not disappoint.
This is Chloe's contemporary debut and like her fantasy books, this one is full of fantastic world building, complicated characters, twists and turns, spice and heartbreaking moments. Chloe is a queen at drawing you in with characters that evoke tangible emotions which in turn make you feel the pain, longing and emotional.
Rhett and Anastasia had the most AMAZING chemistry with very real tension between the two of them. The push and pull was perfect which culminated into a real explosion of feelings. They both had a lot of character growth as individuals and together.
Chloe writes really great side characters that add a lot to the story and who doesn't friends that are like family?
This story has a real dark undertone so make sure to check any of the trigger and content warnings. The end of book 1 made me immediately want book 2 so I cannot wait to see the sequel to this fantastic story.
Thank you to Chloe and Lyssa for the eARC.
February 1, 2024
I really liked this book and it was a good palate cleanser after some intense fantasy reads. I don’t read as much contemporary as I do fantasy, but I love Chloe’s fantasy books and had to read this. Overall I really enjoyed the story and characters and I’m super excited to read the next book when it comes out!
January 16, 2024
“We’re all different kinds of broken, Rhett. Your pieces are just a little sharper than most.”
Behind the Broken is Chloe C. Peñaranda’s first contemporary romance, and it did not disappoint! I’m now anxiously awaiting the conclusion of this duet. . .
If you’re a fan of Peñaranda’s fantasy novels and have enjoyed the romance and characters, you’ll find a lot to love in BtB!
Rhett & Anastasia’s relationship growth is top tier. They have banter and I just love them 🥰
I also adore the side characters! Allie and Rix have this fun mission impossible / fast & furious tech team banter. Plus Allie is a girlboss lawyer! And there’s just so many side characters that just need more page time (or perhaps a book - especially because there’s more books planned in this universe!)
All in all, I loved this! Many thanks to the author for the eARC!
Behind the Broken is Chloe C. Peñaranda’s first contemporary romance, and it did not disappoint! I’m now anxiously awaiting the conclusion of this duet. . .
If you’re a fan of Peñaranda’s fantasy novels and have enjoyed the romance and characters, you’ll find a lot to love in BtB!
Rhett & Anastasia’s relationship growth is top tier. They have banter and I just love them 🥰
I also adore the side characters! Allie and Rix have this fun mission impossible / fast & furious tech team banter. Plus Allie is a girlboss lawyer! And there’s just so many side characters that just need more page time (or perhaps a book - especially because there’s more books planned in this universe!)
All in all, I loved this! Many thanks to the author for the eARC!
June 18, 2025
Summary
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Spicy rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Fluff rating: 💖💖 1.5/5
Chloe smashed it out of the park with this contemporary debut. There are some darker themes throughout so check your TWs but I wouldn’t classify this strictly as a dark romance more of a romantic suspense with dark themes.
This was a bodyguard romance that was like Twisted Lies and the BBC drama The Bodyguard had a baby and was sprinkled with a tiny bit of Haunting Adeline vibes all whilst being a great story in its own right. Just wanted to give you the feel for the ride you’re in for!
The characters are well written and dynamic. Although Ana starts out as a bit lost and wayward she really comes in to her own during the book and I loved her development. Rhett is beautiful morally grey, vigilante book boyfriend material and again has fabulous development.
The underlying plot was gripping, thought provoking and twisty and really kept you hooked. The pacing was great I never felt like were rush rushing through or dragging along the story. There’s plenty to keep you going and the tension is so edible! Their first interaction on page was absolute fire 🔥 and when the fake dating element dropped it was like Christmas come early 😏😏
Loved it and cannot wait for book 2. That cliff hanger was pretty brutal and I am so ready for Ana to enter her villain era!
Overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Spicy rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Fluff rating: 💖💖 1.5/5
Chloe smashed it out of the park with this contemporary debut. There are some darker themes throughout so check your TWs but I wouldn’t classify this strictly as a dark romance more of a romantic suspense with dark themes.
This was a bodyguard romance that was like Twisted Lies and the BBC drama The Bodyguard had a baby and was sprinkled with a tiny bit of Haunting Adeline vibes all whilst being a great story in its own right. Just wanted to give you the feel for the ride you’re in for!
The characters are well written and dynamic. Although Ana starts out as a bit lost and wayward she really comes in to her own during the book and I loved her development. Rhett is beautiful morally grey, vigilante book boyfriend material and again has fabulous development.
The underlying plot was gripping, thought provoking and twisty and really kept you hooked. The pacing was great I never felt like were rush rushing through or dragging along the story. There’s plenty to keep you going and the tension is so edible! Their first interaction on page was absolute fire 🔥 and when the fake dating element dropped it was like Christmas come early 😏😏
Loved it and cannot wait for book 2. That cliff hanger was pretty brutal and I am so ready for Ana to enter her villain era!
February 28, 2025
Well folks I was proven unequivocally correct, it is in fact true that there is nothing Chloe writes that I won’t devour like a raccoon who just discovered free cheese. This was my first read from her that isn’t Fantasy so I was really excited to see what her writing style would be like in this contemporary dark romance. It’s no joke to say I was hooked in the first chapter. Chloe has a way of making main characters feel incredibly tangible, and interest grabbing very quickly, so the investment for me was from the jump. I loved how and where she chose to give us information in a way that both feeds the suspense, and gives us just enough to follow these characters, Rhett and Anastasia absolutely anywhere.
First we are introduced to our MMC Rhett, he is a man of mystery I will let you unfold because I keep it spoiler free but I will say he is THE captain save your girl bodyguard of your morally grey dreams. I think getting Rhett’s backstory at the forefront is really integral to both his character and to the plot so it’s such a smart choice to start us there. The tone is set so perfectly, and it’s not long before you realize this dark daddy out here like Oliver Queen’s Arrow in the night is ready to absolutely steal your heart. For me he is root for able to the highest degree, and having dual POV really added the fuel to that fire. Again, such a smart choice to give us dual when his inner workings and thoughts are truly some of the most delicious and vital bits here. And prepare yourself folks because Teddy Hamilton is here to bring him to life in stunningly brooding narration that just fits Rhett so well it’s entirely impossible not to lose yourself in this audiobook. To be honest I really can’t picture anyone else reading this character because it’s without flaw or question a dynamic pairing of character and voice actor.
Our MMC Anastasia aka Ana, is equally root for able and dynamic. She’s the MMC you will want to be or befriend and it’s no hard task to see why the collision of these two characters in a fake dating bodyguard romance is so explosively satisfying. She’s smart, funny, witty, fiery, brave and she has a big heart to fearlessly lead her way. She is truly matched for our MMC in so many ways it’s just so easy to root for this duo. She’s also very relateable with her anxiety, and I found myself feeling really seen by a lot of her mental health journey we get here. I think a lot of readers undoubtedly will. Ana is the daughter of a Presidential candidate and is in more danger than she could have ever realized. Thankfully a dark knight is there to protect her life and limb, and let me tell you the unfolding of their connection along the way will have you kicking your feet and racing for the next page because the tension is so very palpable! Her journey to discover herself and her true power will grip your heart and never let go.
And as for Ana’s narration, we are in luck! We are also graced with the incredible narrator, THE Jacci Prior and boy does she get this character. She knows exactly what she is doing, and makes Ana truly leap out of this book and feel real. Her subtle uses of inflection and emotion truly match the tension throughout this book, and performs like a movie. There’s no deadpan reading here it truly comes alive with all of the emotion you’d hope for in an audiobook, and truly epitomizes why spicy books are just better with audio in my opinion. She grabs the emotion on the page and makes it come to life in such a beautiful way, she truly feels like Ana here. Pairing Teddy and Jacci together with dual narration is truly the holy grail for audio, and this book is a perfect example of that fact. I mean eat your heart out guys this book will make you sweat!
The spice here hits hard and hits so well. I think this is because plenty of time was given to the lead up and connection without feeling heavy on the excess so you can really feel things getting to a boiling point. Overall the tension is the key to the success here and Chloe really nailed its timing. I truly could not put this down and as I sat back after finishing I thought to myself I really could not have pictured the pacing any other way. It just worked for me and I think it’s clear why this has been such a huge hit already. I think people are truly not prepared for the experience they will get with this story and this narration, it’s truly a match made in heaven folks! I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to get audio!
You will love this if these vibes are for you:
-he falls first and stays OBSESSED
-fake dating
-bodyguard
-dark hero vs the under world
-longing and lusting
-anxiety rep
-good girl 💋
-he’s in charge
Thank you so much to Chloe C Penaranda for giving me the ALC, my thoughts are entirely my own. Please check all CW/TW before reading as this book.
First we are introduced to our MMC Rhett, he is a man of mystery I will let you unfold because I keep it spoiler free but I will say he is THE captain save your girl bodyguard of your morally grey dreams. I think getting Rhett’s backstory at the forefront is really integral to both his character and to the plot so it’s such a smart choice to start us there. The tone is set so perfectly, and it’s not long before you realize this dark daddy out here like Oliver Queen’s Arrow in the night is ready to absolutely steal your heart. For me he is root for able to the highest degree, and having dual POV really added the fuel to that fire. Again, such a smart choice to give us dual when his inner workings and thoughts are truly some of the most delicious and vital bits here. And prepare yourself folks because Teddy Hamilton is here to bring him to life in stunningly brooding narration that just fits Rhett so well it’s entirely impossible not to lose yourself in this audiobook. To be honest I really can’t picture anyone else reading this character because it’s without flaw or question a dynamic pairing of character and voice actor.
Our MMC Anastasia aka Ana, is equally root for able and dynamic. She’s the MMC you will want to be or befriend and it’s no hard task to see why the collision of these two characters in a fake dating bodyguard romance is so explosively satisfying. She’s smart, funny, witty, fiery, brave and she has a big heart to fearlessly lead her way. She is truly matched for our MMC in so many ways it’s just so easy to root for this duo. She’s also very relateable with her anxiety, and I found myself feeling really seen by a lot of her mental health journey we get here. I think a lot of readers undoubtedly will. Ana is the daughter of a Presidential candidate and is in more danger than she could have ever realized. Thankfully a dark knight is there to protect her life and limb, and let me tell you the unfolding of their connection along the way will have you kicking your feet and racing for the next page because the tension is so very palpable! Her journey to discover herself and her true power will grip your heart and never let go.
And as for Ana’s narration, we are in luck! We are also graced with the incredible narrator, THE Jacci Prior and boy does she get this character. She knows exactly what she is doing, and makes Ana truly leap out of this book and feel real. Her subtle uses of inflection and emotion truly match the tension throughout this book, and performs like a movie. There’s no deadpan reading here it truly comes alive with all of the emotion you’d hope for in an audiobook, and truly epitomizes why spicy books are just better with audio in my opinion. She grabs the emotion on the page and makes it come to life in such a beautiful way, she truly feels like Ana here. Pairing Teddy and Jacci together with dual narration is truly the holy grail for audio, and this book is a perfect example of that fact. I mean eat your heart out guys this book will make you sweat!
The spice here hits hard and hits so well. I think this is because plenty of time was given to the lead up and connection without feeling heavy on the excess so you can really feel things getting to a boiling point. Overall the tension is the key to the success here and Chloe really nailed its timing. I truly could not put this down and as I sat back after finishing I thought to myself I really could not have pictured the pacing any other way. It just worked for me and I think it’s clear why this has been such a huge hit already. I think people are truly not prepared for the experience they will get with this story and this narration, it’s truly a match made in heaven folks! I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to get audio!
You will love this if these vibes are for you:
-he falls first and stays OBSESSED
-fake dating
-bodyguard
-dark hero vs the under world
-longing and lusting
-anxiety rep
-good girl 💋
-he’s in charge
Thank you so much to Chloe C Penaranda for giving me the ALC, my thoughts are entirely my own. Please check all CW/TW before reading as this book.
May 21, 2024
Rhett is everything!! 🥵
Through out this book I screamed so many times “THIS MAN”🥵🤌🏻 he was trying so hard to fight his feelings for her. Especially since he thinks he doesn’t deserve it because of who his uncle is.
Ana doesn’t back down no she even pokes the bear while it got it’s sight already set on her🔥
Ana is very naive about the world and still went out to party and fairs without security… which let to disastrous consequences such as her losing her hair but also slaying the new look!
I felt everything in this book! Even the villain is so perfectly written, oh they pissed me off so bad I literally had to take a break and walk away because I got that mad! 🤣
The spicy scenes 🥵 Ana says what she likes and Rhett knows how to fucking please her 🔥
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rhett’s backstory made me so sad, and how Ana tried to help him through his grief and understand him 🥹 and how he is willing to live for Ana. This book pulled at all my heartstrings!
Recommend this to all dark romance lovers!!
Through out this book I screamed so many times “THIS MAN”🥵🤌🏻 he was trying so hard to fight his feelings for her. Especially since he thinks he doesn’t deserve it because of who his uncle is.
Ana doesn’t back down no she even pokes the bear while it got it’s sight already set on her🔥
Ana is very naive about the world and still went out to party and fairs without security… which let to disastrous consequences such as her losing her hair but also slaying the new look!
I felt everything in this book! Even the villain is so perfectly written, oh they pissed me off so bad I literally had to take a break and walk away because I got that mad! 🤣
The spicy scenes 🥵 Ana says what she likes and Rhett knows how to fucking please her 🔥
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rhett’s backstory made me so sad, and how Ana tried to help him through his grief and understand him 🥹 and how he is willing to live for Ana. This book pulled at all my heartstrings!
Recommend this to all dark romance lovers!!
February 17, 2024
First of all, thank you for letting me receive an ARC copy of this book!
How this is Chloe's first contemporary romance is beyond me! It was truly captivating from start to finish. I do not think I stop kicking my feet, giggling, and smiling the entire time I was reading this book! The storyline was so incredible and kept you hooked and constantly thinking what will happen next?!
Rhett and Ana are honestly perfect for one another and I don't know how else to put it. They both push each other in ways that sometimes they themselves don't even know they need. They are so incredibly good at reading one another and helped strengthen one another in so many ways. The build up to their relationship is full of delicious tension that will have you squealing. The banter is top notch and had me grinning like a maniac. Like seriously, the sass between these two is just too good. They always give it right back to one another and it only makes me kick my feet some more. 🙌🏼
Rhett pushes Ana to push herself outside of her comfort zone and to own it and break free from her cage. Ana reminds Rhett what it is like to want to live for something or someone again. I absolutely cannot wait to see how to rest of the story unfolds in book two! I am so impatiently waiting for more of their story, and honestly more from some of the side characters’ stories as well! This is truly such an amazing book!
How this is Chloe's first contemporary romance is beyond me! It was truly captivating from start to finish. I do not think I stop kicking my feet, giggling, and smiling the entire time I was reading this book! The storyline was so incredible and kept you hooked and constantly thinking what will happen next?!
Rhett and Ana are honestly perfect for one another and I don't know how else to put it. They both push each other in ways that sometimes they themselves don't even know they need. They are so incredibly good at reading one another and helped strengthen one another in so many ways. The build up to their relationship is full of delicious tension that will have you squealing. The banter is top notch and had me grinning like a maniac. Like seriously, the sass between these two is just too good. They always give it right back to one another and it only makes me kick my feet some more. 🙌🏼
Rhett pushes Ana to push herself outside of her comfort zone and to own it and break free from her cage. Ana reminds Rhett what it is like to want to live for something or someone again. I absolutely cannot wait to see how to rest of the story unfolds in book two! I am so impatiently waiting for more of their story, and honestly more from some of the side characters’ stories as well! This is truly such an amazing book!
April 26, 2025
4 ⭐️
The first book in the War of Hearts series.
Rhett and Ana ❤️
Do you know what. I had a bloody great time with this book 🤣!
The man that Rhett is. Wounded, broken but a whole ass man 🥵. When I say he notices everything, DAMN. The things he does and says 👀👀👀👀. Slightly in love right now!
I love that Ana has a fiery side and watching that grow 🙏🏼
There’s loads going on, it kept me engaged and wanting more. Onto the next 😉
The first book in the War of Hearts series.
Rhett and Ana ❤️
Do you know what. I had a bloody great time with this book 🤣!
The man that Rhett is. Wounded, broken but a whole ass man 🥵. When I say he notices everything, DAMN. The things he does and says 👀👀👀👀. Slightly in love right now!
I love that Ana has a fiery side and watching that grow 🙏🏼
There’s loads going on, it kept me engaged and wanting more. Onto the next 😉
August 31, 2025
3.5
I feel the second book is going to be better. I really enjoyed this book the bodyguard trope was on point. But the evils that unwrapped in this story is what hooked me. It was like a dark underworld you get to see. I’m excited to wrap up the second to see how this all plays out. I feel the FMC may turn into a badass!
I feel the second book is going to be better. I really enjoyed this book the bodyguard trope was on point. But the evils that unwrapped in this story is what hooked me. It was like a dark underworld you get to see. I’m excited to wrap up the second to see how this all plays out. I feel the FMC may turn into a badass!
April 18, 2025
The book was pleasantly surprising. The twist just kept coming at the end. I also thought this was going to be spice heavy with a little plot but it was totally the opposite. The MMC is morally gray and the FMC is a very likable character. I really enjoyed this book!!
October 17, 2025
3.5 🌟
Oh, little bird, what have you done?
Well Well this was surprisingly good,the last chapters were so good , intense. it reminded me of the monster trilogy, now moving for the 2nd book. I'm so excited to see anna in the underworld 😩🤌
Oh, little bird, what have you done?
Well Well this was surprisingly good,the last chapters were so good , intense. it reminded me of the monster trilogy, now moving for the 2nd book. I'm so excited to see anna in the underworld 😩🤌
March 7, 2025
I loved the twists! I honestly could not have predicted the end! Iam intrigued to see what happens in book 2. I thought this was a great read and written well.
January 1, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Behind the Broken but my opinions are still my own.
Firstly, if you’ve read either of Chloe’s other series, BTB has similar undertones with deep, complex characters, an intricate story and beautifully cinematic writing. However, this book is very different from her fantasy series, not just because BTB is contemporary but because of some of the darker material presented within.
BTB is a hard book to categorize. The romance is spicy and deliciously explicit, I’d probably say moreso than Chloe’s previous books. Rhett‘s filthy mouth is sweat-inducing and something to aspire to (men, take notes!). The romance itself is not dark. Quite the opposite, Ana and Rhett’s romance is like walking out into the sun after a cold, brutal snowstorm. Some of the themes and plot points of the book, however, are arguably darker than anything Chloe has written before. If you are newer to dark books, I would pay close attention to the trigger warnings as some topics in this book could be upsetting (suicidal ideation, human trafficking, etc).
With that said, I devour dark romance books without batting an eyelash. There’s not much that is triggering to me so please keep that in mind with my review. This book may not be for everyone but on the scale of light to black, I’d personally rank this at a lighter-medium dark, towards the middle of the scale (maybe a 2.5-3/5). BTB has vibes similar to The Plated Prisoner series, Haunting Adeline and Kill Switch though not as graphic/triggering as those books. I’ve never read Manacled but from what I understand about the fandom, I get major Dramione vibes from Ana and Rhett. If you’ve read Chloe’s An Heir Comes to Rise series, Rhett reminds me very much of a darker, more unhinged and contemporary version of Reylan which explains why I fell in love with him so quickly.
Behind the Broken is not a slow burn or enemies to lovers which is quite different from Chloe’s other series but was a refreshing change for me since I have pretty much been exclusively reading books with those tropes. Ana and Rhett fall hard and fall fast and the bodyguard trope makes that dynamic all the more delicious and forbidden. It wouldn’t be a book by Chloe without the “touch her and die” trope and I personally hope she never gives this trope up. We all love a slightly unhinged man who gets feral over his love. But what’s even more interesting is we get a bit of the “touch HIM and die” trope and I can only imagine we’ll see that more in the next book! (We love an equal opportunity relationship, folks!)
“On you, around you-my full focus is entirely yours.” I NEED THIS MAN IN MY LIFE.
BTB is book one in a duology and does leave off on a cliff-hanger and I literally cannot wait to see what happens next.
Thank you so much Chloe and Lyssa for the ARC. You’ve officially filled 80% of my mind with smutty Rhett thoughts and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Firstly, if you’ve read either of Chloe’s other series, BTB has similar undertones with deep, complex characters, an intricate story and beautifully cinematic writing. However, this book is very different from her fantasy series, not just because BTB is contemporary but because of some of the darker material presented within.
BTB is a hard book to categorize. The romance is spicy and deliciously explicit, I’d probably say moreso than Chloe’s previous books. Rhett‘s filthy mouth is sweat-inducing and something to aspire to (men, take notes!). The romance itself is not dark. Quite the opposite, Ana and Rhett’s romance is like walking out into the sun after a cold, brutal snowstorm. Some of the themes and plot points of the book, however, are arguably darker than anything Chloe has written before. If you are newer to dark books, I would pay close attention to the trigger warnings as some topics in this book could be upsetting (suicidal ideation, human trafficking, etc).
With that said, I devour dark romance books without batting an eyelash. There’s not much that is triggering to me so please keep that in mind with my review. This book may not be for everyone but on the scale of light to black, I’d personally rank this at a lighter-medium dark, towards the middle of the scale (maybe a 2.5-3/5). BTB has vibes similar to The Plated Prisoner series, Haunting Adeline and Kill Switch though not as graphic/triggering as those books. I’ve never read Manacled but from what I understand about the fandom, I get major Dramione vibes from Ana and Rhett. If you’ve read Chloe’s An Heir Comes to Rise series, Rhett reminds me very much of a darker, more unhinged and contemporary version of Reylan which explains why I fell in love with him so quickly.
Behind the Broken is not a slow burn or enemies to lovers which is quite different from Chloe’s other series but was a refreshing change for me since I have pretty much been exclusively reading books with those tropes. Ana and Rhett fall hard and fall fast and the bodyguard trope makes that dynamic all the more delicious and forbidden. It wouldn’t be a book by Chloe without the “touch her and die” trope and I personally hope she never gives this trope up. We all love a slightly unhinged man who gets feral over his love. But what’s even more interesting is we get a bit of the “touch HIM and die” trope and I can only imagine we’ll see that more in the next book! (We love an equal opportunity relationship, folks!)
“On you, around you-my full focus is entirely yours.” I NEED THIS MAN IN MY LIFE.
BTB is book one in a duology and does leave off on a cliff-hanger and I literally cannot wait to see what happens next.
Thank you so much Chloe and Lyssa for the ARC. You’ve officially filled 80% of my mind with smutty Rhett thoughts and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
March 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this debut contemporary romance from Chloe C. Peñaranda. Beyond the Broken is a dark bodyguard romance with lots of twists and turns, and some very spicy romance.
Anastasia Kinsley is a grad student finishing up her last year in school, and just happens to be the daughter of a senator who is currently running for president. Her father decides that she needs some additional security protection during the campaign, and hires a young and very handsome Rhett Kaiser as her personal bodyguard. When a fairly innocent photo is leaked to the press, Rhett and Ana pretend to be in a relationship, keeping Rhett's status as her bodyguard undercover, while protecting her father's campaign image. But Ana finds that she is drawn to Rhett, and that he sees her in ways no one else ever has.
Meanwhile, Rhett is hiding his identity as the nephew of a notorious crime boss, and is the head of an underground network, Xoid, dedicated to taking down the worst of humanity. Rhett learns of an attempted hit on Ana that may lead him to his uncle, who he has plotted his revenge on for years. But taking the job to protect Ana becomes something more, and the pair find themselves falling for each other despite their vow to remain professional. But when acquaintances of Ana's lead them to investigate a human trafficking ring, the stakes become much higher, and both Ana and Rhett are at risk.
I've been a big fan of Chloe's fantasy writing, so I was super excited to read her newest project in a contemporary setting. I do not normally read contemporary romance in this genre (mostly rom-coms), so this darker, crime/bodyguard trope was new to me. I did enjoy it, as the setting lends itself to lots of action, and it read like watching a movie. I read it over the course of two evenings, as I could hardly put it down! The pacing was excellent, and it had a good balance of plot and spice, with some pretty intense scenes. The romance was good, and developed quickly, and the spicy scenes were ::chef's kiss::. It does end on a pretty big cliff, and I can't wait for book two in this duet.
I had a few minor issues with some of the non-important details that irked me, but otherwise, this was an exciting book, and an excellent genre debut for this author. While this book explores some darker themes such as human trafficking, nothing is explicit on page, though there is some explicit violence/death. Please keep that in mind if you are concerned about these elements.
Thank you so much to Chloe C. Peñaranda for an electronic advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!!
Anastasia Kinsley is a grad student finishing up her last year in school, and just happens to be the daughter of a senator who is currently running for president. Her father decides that she needs some additional security protection during the campaign, and hires a young and very handsome Rhett Kaiser as her personal bodyguard. When a fairly innocent photo is leaked to the press, Rhett and Ana pretend to be in a relationship, keeping Rhett's status as her bodyguard undercover, while protecting her father's campaign image. But Ana finds that she is drawn to Rhett, and that he sees her in ways no one else ever has.
Meanwhile, Rhett is hiding his identity as the nephew of a notorious crime boss, and is the head of an underground network, Xoid, dedicated to taking down the worst of humanity. Rhett learns of an attempted hit on Ana that may lead him to his uncle, who he has plotted his revenge on for years. But taking the job to protect Ana becomes something more, and the pair find themselves falling for each other despite their vow to remain professional. But when acquaintances of Ana's lead them to investigate a human trafficking ring, the stakes become much higher, and both Ana and Rhett are at risk.
I've been a big fan of Chloe's fantasy writing, so I was super excited to read her newest project in a contemporary setting. I do not normally read contemporary romance in this genre (mostly rom-coms), so this darker, crime/bodyguard trope was new to me. I did enjoy it, as the setting lends itself to lots of action, and it read like watching a movie. I read it over the course of two evenings, as I could hardly put it down! The pacing was excellent, and it had a good balance of plot and spice, with some pretty intense scenes. The romance was good, and developed quickly, and the spicy scenes were ::chef's kiss::. It does end on a pretty big cliff, and I can't wait for book two in this duet.
I had a few minor issues with some of the non-important details that irked me, but otherwise, this was an exciting book, and an excellent genre debut for this author. While this book explores some darker themes such as human trafficking, nothing is explicit on page, though there is some explicit violence/death. Please keep that in mind if you are concerned about these elements.
Thank you so much to Chloe C. Peñaranda for an electronic advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!!
May 12, 2025
4⭐️
Wow, first time ever reading a book by this author and I am absolutely impressed!
The suspense, the action, the mystery and the SLOW BURN were amazing. Looking forward to reading the next book! 😩
Wow, first time ever reading a book by this author and I am absolutely impressed!
The suspense, the action, the mystery and the SLOW BURN were amazing. Looking forward to reading the next book! 😩
August 19, 2025
6 star read!!!! Rhett Kaiser you are 🔥🥵 I didn’t know I needed you in my life, now that you are you will forever live rent free in my mind.
January 16, 2024
This was incredible.
I loved everything abouth this book.
In this book you get bodyguard romance with a dark environnement you get morally grey, you get a strong FMC, you get a swooning badass blond haired MMC, you get spice, you get high stakes, Chloe really said you get everything.
If you are a fan of Chloe's writing this book will be just as amazing as heer fantasy series. I savoured this book and felt everything. I'm so ready for the next installment in this series, I'm here for it.
I loved everything abouth this book.
In this book you get bodyguard romance with a dark environnement you get morally grey, you get a strong FMC, you get a swooning badass blond haired MMC, you get spice, you get high stakes, Chloe really said you get everything.
If you are a fan of Chloe's writing this book will be just as amazing as heer fantasy series. I savoured this book and felt everything. I'm so ready for the next installment in this series, I'm here for it.
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