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Broken Hope
A grieving doctor fights back against the world’s growing inhumanity…
“Rubin’s revenge thriller is fast-paced and full of plenty of unexpected twists and turns…a true page-turner”—Kirkus Reviews
To her Boston patients, Dr. Hope Sullivan is a conscientious doctor with a caring bedside manner. To her victims, she is a fierce protector of those who have been wronged. After losing everyone close to her, these revenge “tune-ups” are the only thing that make her feel...well...feel anything at all.
Until one day, a mysterious email threatens to expose her. I know what ur doing, it says.
At first, Hope ignores the electronic stalking, but when the threats become increasingly personal, she knows she must act. It isn’t until the stalker gives Hope a taste of her own medicine that she uncovers a far greater danger, both to herself and to the patients she cares for.
Content This book contains references to suicide and grief that might be triggering to some readers.
“Rubin’s revenge thriller is fast-paced and full of plenty of unexpected twists and turns…a true page-turner”—Kirkus Reviews
To her Boston patients, Dr. Hope Sullivan is a conscientious doctor with a caring bedside manner. To her victims, she is a fierce protector of those who have been wronged. After losing everyone close to her, these revenge “tune-ups” are the only thing that make her feel...well...feel anything at all.
Until one day, a mysterious email threatens to expose her. I know what ur doing, it says.
At first, Hope ignores the electronic stalking, but when the threats become increasingly personal, she knows she must act. It isn’t until the stalker gives Hope a taste of her own medicine that she uncovers a far greater danger, both to herself and to the patients she cares for.
Content This book contains references to suicide and grief that might be triggering to some readers.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2024
21 people are currently reading
1781 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Rubin
10 books294 followersCarrie Rubin is a physician-turned-novelist who writes thrillers. She enjoys exploring other genres as well, and has a cozy mystery published under the pen name Morgan Mayer and a novel of magical realism under the pen name Dannie Boyd.
To learn about new releases or promotions, follow Carrie on BookBub. Or, to receive a free ebook copy of The Seneca Scourge: A Medical Thriller, you're invited to sign up for the author's new-release alerts.
To learn about new releases or promotions, follow Carrie on BookBub. Or, to receive a free ebook copy of The Seneca Scourge: A Medical Thriller, you're invited to sign up for the author's new-release alerts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 19, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ so good!
Available on NetGalley! Go get it!
Whoa!!! This was so good!!! I requested this based on the description. A vengeful doctor out to seek justice sounded right up my alley!
Hope Sullivan is a highly respected doctor. Some tragic events happened in her past that shattered her world. One that sent her on path to seek out justice for the wrongs that have been inflicted on others.
Someone has been sending her messages. Letting her know they know her dirty little secret. Suddenly, she is at risk to being exposed. Hope becomes nervous as her secret stalker keeps moving in on her every move. Who knows her evil deeds? Can she get to them before she is caught?
This story is about revenge, resentment, justice, forgiveness and the rights and wrongs that tie those things together. There was a very moving part in the story that led me to reach out to the author, I enjoyed it that much! Suspenseful and thrilling!
I’d like to thank Indigo Dot Press, NetGalley and especially Carrie Ruben for the opportunity!
Publication date May 21, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Available on NetGalley! Go get it!
Whoa!!! This was so good!!! I requested this based on the description. A vengeful doctor out to seek justice sounded right up my alley!
Hope Sullivan is a highly respected doctor. Some tragic events happened in her past that shattered her world. One that sent her on path to seek out justice for the wrongs that have been inflicted on others.
Someone has been sending her messages. Letting her know they know her dirty little secret. Suddenly, she is at risk to being exposed. Hope becomes nervous as her secret stalker keeps moving in on her every move. Who knows her evil deeds? Can she get to them before she is caught?
This story is about revenge, resentment, justice, forgiveness and the rights and wrongs that tie those things together. There was a very moving part in the story that led me to reach out to the author, I enjoyed it that much! Suspenseful and thrilling!
I’d like to thank Indigo Dot Press, NetGalley and especially Carrie Ruben for the opportunity!
Publication date May 21, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 11, 2024
Dr. Hope Sullivan has lost everyone that mattered to her. She feels utterly ALONE.
Only her work as a medical doctor - and her "avenging angel" side hustle! - get her up each morning to face another day.
Hope has all the material comforts and advantages anyone could want, but her heart is frozen with grief. Unwilling to risk more heartbreak by starting over and seeking a second chance at love, Hope channels her bottled up emotions of loss, and her rage at the forces that robbed her of her idyllic personal life, into using her Krav Maga skills to wreak retribution on the partners or tormentors of her long suffering patients. Even the nasty barista at the local coffee shop gets a visit from Dr. Hope's avenging alter ego!
I'm rating this page-turner a 3.8 out of 5. Dr. Sullivan's character needs a bit more fleshing out, and since this is series, I suspect we will see that happen in the next action-packed thrilling installment! My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Only her work as a medical doctor - and her "avenging angel" side hustle! - get her up each morning to face another day.
Hope has all the material comforts and advantages anyone could want, but her heart is frozen with grief. Unwilling to risk more heartbreak by starting over and seeking a second chance at love, Hope channels her bottled up emotions of loss, and her rage at the forces that robbed her of her idyllic personal life, into using her Krav Maga skills to wreak retribution on the partners or tormentors of her long suffering patients. Even the nasty barista at the local coffee shop gets a visit from Dr. Hope's avenging alter ego!
I'm rating this page-turner a 3.8 out of 5. Dr. Sullivan's character needs a bit more fleshing out, and since this is series, I suspect we will see that happen in the next action-packed thrilling installment! My thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2024
THRILLED to be one of the first to write a review of this book because I absolutely loved it! I love reading medical thrillers/novels written by physicians (as a nurse, they’re generally much more realistic), and this one was no exception.
Hope is a physician who does some “tune-up” work on the side… which involves exacting some vigilante justice. But when the person in need up a “tune-up” is a fellow doctor and Hope herself is framed for something she didn’t do, things take a wild turn.
This book has you feeling all the things for all the characters, and the pacing was excellent. The twists were very well done, and I didn’t see any of them coming! Multiple audible gasps and a satisfying ending later, and I think this one merits a full five stars.
Thank you Book Sirens for this ARC! I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Hope is a physician who does some “tune-up” work on the side… which involves exacting some vigilante justice. But when the person in need up a “tune-up” is a fellow doctor and Hope herself is framed for something she didn’t do, things take a wild turn.
This book has you feeling all the things for all the characters, and the pacing was excellent. The twists were very well done, and I didn’t see any of them coming! Multiple audible gasps and a satisfying ending later, and I think this one merits a full five stars.
Thank you Book Sirens for this ARC! I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
June 27, 2024
Woah!
This book is so good. The twists and turns don’t stop. The ending was so good. Dr. Hope Sullivan is a vigilante you can root for. I liked how she tries to help everyone. She does have a kind heart just goes overboard with her “tune ups”. Once you think you know something. You realize you don’t. Such a great read.
If you like fast paced thrillers. You’ll really like this one. I couldn’t put it down.
This book is so good. The twists and turns don’t stop. The ending was so good. Dr. Hope Sullivan is a vigilante you can root for. I liked how she tries to help everyone. She does have a kind heart just goes overboard with her “tune ups”. Once you think you know something. You realize you don’t. Such a great read.
If you like fast paced thrillers. You’ll really like this one. I couldn’t put it down.
April 7, 2024
So thankful to booksirens & Carrie Rubin for the opportunity to read this ARC! It had my attention from the first page, full of suspense, a great thriller, while also feeling out how we want the revenge or justice when we experience sorrow or pain in life. It also brings in the battle with what is morally what is right & wrong? I loved the twists and turns throughout, kept me guessing & loved the ending! A must read! Publication date 5/21/24!!
August 19, 2024
Medical thrillers and mysteries are my jam, and Broken Hope fills both those needs. The description caught my eye and made me want to know more. Hope Sullivan is a highly respected doctor who has some tragedy in her past. Because of this, she feels the need to right the wrongs of others. Unfortunately, someone discovers her secret, and she is forced to do what is necessary to address the issue. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more. I received an advanced copy of this book, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
March 24, 2024
I loved the ending!!! I have to start at the end because as I read this enthralling story and was pulled into Hope’s world I wasn’t so sure what to expect, but I was hoping and was very pleased and left satisfied when I got there. Although, as always with Rubin’s characters, I want more of them!
Rubin has such an easy way of drawing you into her world of medical thrillers, creating unique and flawed characters you can’t help root for and who make you go through all the feels - empathy, sympathy, anger, relief and happiness. She makes you slow down as you near the last few chapters because although you want to know … you don’t want the story to end. Kudos to Rubin for Broken Hope!
Rubin has such an easy way of drawing you into her world of medical thrillers, creating unique and flawed characters you can’t help root for and who make you go through all the feels - empathy, sympathy, anger, relief and happiness. She makes you slow down as you near the last few chapters because although you want to know … you don’t want the story to end. Kudos to Rubin for Broken Hope!
July 16, 2024
"Broken Hope" by Carrie Ruben is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that dives deep into the complexities of grief, morality, and the lengths one will go to protect the vulnerable. As an ARC reader, I found myself captivated by Dr. Hope Sullivan's harrowing journey from a caring doctor to a vigilante seeking justice in a world plagued by inhumanity.
Dr. Hope Sullivan is a protagonist that readers will find both compelling and complex. Her transformation from a conscientious physician to a clandestine avenger of the wronged is both fascinating and tragic. After suffering immense personal losses, Hope's only solace lies in her "revenge tune-ups," where she exacts justice on behalf of those who cannot defend themselves. Ruben masterfully portrays Hope's internal struggle, making her both a sympathetic and enigmatic figure.
The plot takes a thrilling turn when Hope receives a mysterious email that threatens to expose her secret life. The simple yet chilling message, "I know what ur doing," marks the beginning of a cat-and-mouse game that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. As the threats become more personal and invasive, Hope is forced to confront her own vulnerabilities and the ethical dilemmas of her actions.
Ruben's writing is taut and evocative, skillfully building suspense as the story unfolds. The tension escalates when the stalker begins to target Hope in ways that mirror her own methods of retribution. This reversal not only heightens the stakes but also forces Hope—and the reader—to question the morality of her actions and the true cost of vengeance.
"Broken Hope" is more than just a thriller; it's a deep exploration of grief, loss, and the human capacity for both compassion and cruelty. The novel raises important questions about justice and the fine line between right and wrong. Ruben's ability to weave these themes into a fast-paced narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.
In conclusion, "Broken Hope" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who appreciates a story that challenges moral boundaries while delivering heart-pounding suspense. Dr. Hope Sullivan's journey is one that will stay with readers long after the final page is turned. Carrie Ruben has crafted a powerful and unforgettable tale that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
Dr. Hope Sullivan is a protagonist that readers will find both compelling and complex. Her transformation from a conscientious physician to a clandestine avenger of the wronged is both fascinating and tragic. After suffering immense personal losses, Hope's only solace lies in her "revenge tune-ups," where she exacts justice on behalf of those who cannot defend themselves. Ruben masterfully portrays Hope's internal struggle, making her both a sympathetic and enigmatic figure.
The plot takes a thrilling turn when Hope receives a mysterious email that threatens to expose her secret life. The simple yet chilling message, "I know what ur doing," marks the beginning of a cat-and-mouse game that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. As the threats become more personal and invasive, Hope is forced to confront her own vulnerabilities and the ethical dilemmas of her actions.
Ruben's writing is taut and evocative, skillfully building suspense as the story unfolds. The tension escalates when the stalker begins to target Hope in ways that mirror her own methods of retribution. This reversal not only heightens the stakes but also forces Hope—and the reader—to question the morality of her actions and the true cost of vengeance.
"Broken Hope" is more than just a thriller; it's a deep exploration of grief, loss, and the human capacity for both compassion and cruelty. The novel raises important questions about justice and the fine line between right and wrong. Ruben's ability to weave these themes into a fast-paced narrative is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.
In conclusion, "Broken Hope" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who appreciates a story that challenges moral boundaries while delivering heart-pounding suspense. Dr. Hope Sullivan's journey is one that will stay with readers long after the final page is turned. Carrie Ruben has crafted a powerful and unforgettable tale that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
May 7, 2024
It was good, I had no hesitation in continuing to read start to finish, always interested to see what would happen next.
From early on certain things were revealed that I had assumed to be something I wouldn’t found out until the end. This meant I had lost opportunity for any suspense to build, to try and piece together the mystery of it all and to be shocked when I’m completely wrong. Revealing all of these throughout took a lot of the expectations of a medical thriller away.
It wasn’t a bad book, I loved how it ended for the main character, it just wasn’t for me.
I received this book as an advanced reader copy for free and have provided my review absolutely voluntarily.
From early on certain things were revealed that I had assumed to be something I wouldn’t found out until the end. This meant I had lost opportunity for any suspense to build, to try and piece together the mystery of it all and to be shocked when I’m completely wrong. Revealing all of these throughout took a lot of the expectations of a medical thriller away.
It wasn’t a bad book, I loved how it ended for the main character, it just wasn’t for me.
I received this book as an advanced reader copy for free and have provided my review absolutely voluntarily.
March 24, 2024
Broken Hope is about a Hope, a doctor that has lost all hope. A tragic accident took the lives of her parents, her fiancé died of cancer, then she lost her last ray of sunshine when she miscarried. How is it possible to move on from such debilitating events? Hard to say how any of us would react to these upsetting moments, but other cruelty in the world has set her off in a different direction – one of a vigilante. Not as a killer who gets revenge, but someone who sees a wrong and helps the perpetrator understand how to be kinder by giving them a “tune-up”. Then one day, she gets an email that changes her world once again. Someone knows, but who? And what do they plan on doing with the information?
A sometimes graphic description of her methods is sometimes too much for the reader, and a bit too much “downer” talk, but overall, I liked the book. The characters are well thought out and are interesting to try and figure out. I didn’t see one major twist in the story, so kudos to the author for that. If you like vigilante type heroes, this book is for you. Thanks to BookSiren for the ARC of this book.
A sometimes graphic description of her methods is sometimes too much for the reader, and a bit too much “downer” talk, but overall, I liked the book. The characters are well thought out and are interesting to try and figure out. I didn’t see one major twist in the story, so kudos to the author for that. If you like vigilante type heroes, this book is for you. Thanks to BookSiren for the ARC of this book.
April 26, 2024
I loved this book! The storyline drew me in right from the beginning and the characters were believable and well structured. I really enjoy the fact that author Carrie Rubin's medical background comes through in her writings and is very apparent in this book.
How many of us have wanted to teach a wrong-doer a good lesson but of course, we just can't, or don't. But now we can live vicariously through the actions of the book's main character, Dr. Hope Sullivan - who expertly deals with the bad guys - hopefully setting them straight from then on. All is good until someone stumbles across Hope's extracurricular activities - and at that point, things become a little unhinged.
Despite the dark subject matter, there's empathy all 'round, lots of twists and turns, a beautiful setting in Boston, and even a feline to cuddle in this enjoyable story.
How many of us have wanted to teach a wrong-doer a good lesson but of course, we just can't, or don't. But now we can live vicariously through the actions of the book's main character, Dr. Hope Sullivan - who expertly deals with the bad guys - hopefully setting them straight from then on. All is good until someone stumbles across Hope's extracurricular activities - and at that point, things become a little unhinged.
Despite the dark subject matter, there's empathy all 'round, lots of twists and turns, a beautiful setting in Boston, and even a feline to cuddle in this enjoyable story.
June 12, 2024
3.5 stars This book mostly caught my interest. However, I wasn’t satisfied with the ending. And I just didn’t like certain parts/themes in this book. I felt the main character went to extremes that bothered me. I did get an arc from book sirens, but my review is unbiased
May 27, 2024
Broken Hope is not like any other book I have read. The main character, Hope, is indeed broken and it seems like there is little chance she will heal. There are many mysteries to solve and the plot twists you through possibilities and intrigues. I couldn't put it down until I knew who did what and what their consequences would be. Great read!
May 26, 2024
Great thriller! It took me by surprise with the direction it went which I feel is hard to do these days. Once I started it was hard to put it down!
August 20, 2024
BOOK REPORT
Received a complimentary copy of Broken Hope, by Carrie Rubin, from Indigo Dot Press | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles/NetGalley, for which I am appreciative, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Scroll past the BOOK REPORT section for a cut-and-paste of the DESCRIPTION of it from them if you want to read my thoughts on the book in the context of that summary.
Really good vigilante justice book, with just the right kind of twists and turns to keep a reader not sure of what the final outcome will be. And I mean up until the very end.
How much did I like this book? Well, I was reading it on the Kindle app on my phone, and after about 20 minutes in I quit flipping out of it and into social media and/or email accounts. Didn’t want to put it down and stop reading to fix and eat lunch but I had to!
Very happy to know there’s more out there by Carrie Rubin, including under pen names.
A Final Thought
I was fascinated to see a very specific point made, in the author’s note, that the characters, storylines, and medical institutions in this book were “fictional, created by me, and without the use of AI.” First time I’ve seen a reference to artificial intelligence like this. Hello, brave new world in which we live……
Description
A GRIEVING DOCTOR FIGHTS BACK AGAINST THE WORLD’S GROWING INHUMANITY…
To her Boston patients, Dr. Hope Sullivan is a conscientious doctor with a caring bedside manner. To her victims, she is a fierce protector of those who have been wronged. After losing everyone close to her, these revenge “tune-ups” are the only thing that make her feel...well...feel anything at all.
Until one day, a mysterious email threatens to expose her. "I know what ur doing," it says.
At first, Hope ignores the electronic stalking, but when the threats become increasingly personal, she knows she must act. It isn’t until the stalker gives Hope a taste of her own medicine that she uncovers a far greater danger, both to herself and to the patients she cares for.
*Content Warning: This book contains references to suicide and grief that might be triggering to some readers.
Received a complimentary copy of Broken Hope, by Carrie Rubin, from Indigo Dot Press | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles/NetGalley, for which I am appreciative, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Scroll past the BOOK REPORT section for a cut-and-paste of the DESCRIPTION of it from them if you want to read my thoughts on the book in the context of that summary.
Really good vigilante justice book, with just the right kind of twists and turns to keep a reader not sure of what the final outcome will be. And I mean up until the very end.
How much did I like this book? Well, I was reading it on the Kindle app on my phone, and after about 20 minutes in I quit flipping out of it and into social media and/or email accounts. Didn’t want to put it down and stop reading to fix and eat lunch but I had to!
Very happy to know there’s more out there by Carrie Rubin, including under pen names.
A Final Thought
I was fascinated to see a very specific point made, in the author’s note, that the characters, storylines, and medical institutions in this book were “fictional, created by me, and without the use of AI.” First time I’ve seen a reference to artificial intelligence like this. Hello, brave new world in which we live……
Description
A GRIEVING DOCTOR FIGHTS BACK AGAINST THE WORLD’S GROWING INHUMANITY…
To her Boston patients, Dr. Hope Sullivan is a conscientious doctor with a caring bedside manner. To her victims, she is a fierce protector of those who have been wronged. After losing everyone close to her, these revenge “tune-ups” are the only thing that make her feel...well...feel anything at all.
Until one day, a mysterious email threatens to expose her. "I know what ur doing," it says.
At first, Hope ignores the electronic stalking, but when the threats become increasingly personal, she knows she must act. It isn’t until the stalker gives Hope a taste of her own medicine that she uncovers a far greater danger, both to herself and to the patients she cares for.
*Content Warning: This book contains references to suicide and grief that might be triggering to some readers.
April 29, 2024
I love vigilante stories. I'm always down to read about a jaded person who, disgusted by the failure of social institutions to punish wrongdoers, takes the law into their own hands to seek retribution. You see this theme a lot in westerns and police stories, but one with a medical theme? Now, that's something new!
Dr. Hope Sullivan is just one such jaded person, and her method of exacting justice is to follow and kidnap the lowlifes she finds in the world, take them to a remote and secluded shed, and subject them to the same pains they have an inflicted on others.
But one day, she gets a threatening message. Someone is stalking her, seeking revenge of their own against her for some perceived wrong. And this person has stumbled on to Hope's extra-judicial activities. Something which the medical board would not look kindly upon, and while Hope has suffered from suicidal thoughts ever since the recent deaths of her parents and fiancé, her reputation as a doctor is the one thing in the world that still keeps her going.
With this threat hanging over her, Hope is now both a stalker and a stalkee... and things only escalate from there. The stakes and suspense build at the intense pace one expects from one of Rubin's novels, with twist after twist culminating in a shocking conclusion.
This book is rather dark, in case you couldn't tell from the cover. It makes Fatal Rounds, Rubin's most recent medical thriller, look like an after-school special. But it is similar in the sense that the protagonists, while sympathetic, are also very well aware of what happens when you gaze long into the abyss.
Broken Hope goes to some dark places, but that darkness is also what makes it such a gripping story. Highly recommended for fans of psychological thrillers.
[Note: this review is based on an ARC of this book.]
Dr. Hope Sullivan is just one such jaded person, and her method of exacting justice is to follow and kidnap the lowlifes she finds in the world, take them to a remote and secluded shed, and subject them to the same pains they have an inflicted on others.
But one day, she gets a threatening message. Someone is stalking her, seeking revenge of their own against her for some perceived wrong. And this person has stumbled on to Hope's extra-judicial activities. Something which the medical board would not look kindly upon, and while Hope has suffered from suicidal thoughts ever since the recent deaths of her parents and fiancé, her reputation as a doctor is the one thing in the world that still keeps her going.
With this threat hanging over her, Hope is now both a stalker and a stalkee... and things only escalate from there. The stakes and suspense build at the intense pace one expects from one of Rubin's novels, with twist after twist culminating in a shocking conclusion.
This book is rather dark, in case you couldn't tell from the cover. It makes Fatal Rounds, Rubin's most recent medical thriller, look like an after-school special. But it is similar in the sense that the protagonists, while sympathetic, are also very well aware of what happens when you gaze long into the abyss.
Broken Hope goes to some dark places, but that darkness is also what makes it such a gripping story. Highly recommended for fans of psychological thrillers.
[Note: this review is based on an ARC of this book.]
June 8, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC
“Broken Hope” by Carrie Rubin is a gripping medical thriller that delves into the psyche of a doctor who walks the fine line between healer and avenger. Dr. Hope Sullivan, a compassionate physician, finds herself in the throes of grief after the loss of her parents and fiancé. In an unconventional twist, she channels her sorrow into a secret life of vigilante justice, administering “tune-ups” to those she deems deserving of punishment.
Rubin’s narrative is a masterful blend of medical precision and psychological depth, creating a dark and compelling world where the lines between right and wrong blur. The protagonist’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the ethical implications of her actions and the haunting possibility of becoming the very monster she fights against.
The tension escalates when an anonymous stalker threatens to unveil Dr. Sullivan’s clandestine activities, propelling the story into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Rubin’s skillful writing ensures that the reader is hooked from the first page, weaving a tale that is both thought-provoking and chilling.
“Broken Hope” stands out for its intricate plot, rich character development, and the eerie perfection with which it portrays both victims and villains. It’s a novel that not only entertains but also invites reflection on justice, empathy, and forgiveness. Thriller enthusiasts looking for a story that combines mystery, suspense, and a strong female lead with a flair for justice will find “Broken Hope” an unputdownable read stays with you long after the book is finished.
Personally, I loved this book, and I can't wait to read more about Dr. Hope Sullivan's adventures.
“Broken Hope” by Carrie Rubin is a gripping medical thriller that delves into the psyche of a doctor who walks the fine line between healer and avenger. Dr. Hope Sullivan, a compassionate physician, finds herself in the throes of grief after the loss of her parents and fiancé. In an unconventional twist, she channels her sorrow into a secret life of vigilante justice, administering “tune-ups” to those she deems deserving of punishment.
Rubin’s narrative is a masterful blend of medical precision and psychological depth, creating a dark and compelling world where the lines between right and wrong blur. The protagonist’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the ethical implications of her actions and the haunting possibility of becoming the very monster she fights against.
The tension escalates when an anonymous stalker threatens to unveil Dr. Sullivan’s clandestine activities, propelling the story into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Rubin’s skillful writing ensures that the reader is hooked from the first page, weaving a tale that is both thought-provoking and chilling.
“Broken Hope” stands out for its intricate plot, rich character development, and the eerie perfection with which it portrays both victims and villains. It’s a novel that not only entertains but also invites reflection on justice, empathy, and forgiveness. Thriller enthusiasts looking for a story that combines mystery, suspense, and a strong female lead with a flair for justice will find “Broken Hope” an unputdownable read stays with you long after the book is finished.
Personally, I loved this book, and I can't wait to read more about Dr. Hope Sullivan's adventures.
July 4, 2024
A fantastic, medically accurate Murder/Thriller written by an MD. What a thrilling manuscript with multiple points of view, deep themes, dark moments, and surprising twists. This will be a great read once released and I do recommend it!
Carrie Rubin takes great care in developing the characters from protagonist to small role. This dark and twisted novel is well put together with medical accuracy, dark themes, and interesting messages on morality and humanity that will put your own to the test.
I was very impressed with the author's use of several perspectives to encapsulate the anguish, fear, and moral questions that develop and follow Hope, our Doctor on her mission to avenge those who have suffered at the hands of others, and all of her coworkers and targets as well.
In addition, this novel takes many surprising turns and twists throughout, keeping the reader on their toes, not knowing what to expect or who to trust next.
A well-written tale of one woman's mission to bring justice to those who cannot serve their own, "Broken Hope" left me questioning my own moral line between retribution for others or being just as culpable as those one seeks vengeance on. The author did a great job of leaving you to question where that line is drawn, leaving the reader struggling to both appreciate and loath the good Doctor with her relatable anguishes and struggles in life.
4 Stars for this one - If I could give any feedback it would be that there were a couple coincidences that just seemed too far-fetched, but they still contributed to the great storytelling of the Author. However, at no point did I feel overwhelmed keeping up with each character. You will become attached to her characters in different ways with many emotions.
Carrie Rubin takes great care in developing the characters from protagonist to small role. This dark and twisted novel is well put together with medical accuracy, dark themes, and interesting messages on morality and humanity that will put your own to the test.
I was very impressed with the author's use of several perspectives to encapsulate the anguish, fear, and moral questions that develop and follow Hope, our Doctor on her mission to avenge those who have suffered at the hands of others, and all of her coworkers and targets as well.
In addition, this novel takes many surprising turns and twists throughout, keeping the reader on their toes, not knowing what to expect or who to trust next.
A well-written tale of one woman's mission to bring justice to those who cannot serve their own, "Broken Hope" left me questioning my own moral line between retribution for others or being just as culpable as those one seeks vengeance on. The author did a great job of leaving you to question where that line is drawn, leaving the reader struggling to both appreciate and loath the good Doctor with her relatable anguishes and struggles in life.
4 Stars for this one - If I could give any feedback it would be that there were a couple coincidences that just seemed too far-fetched, but they still contributed to the great storytelling of the Author. However, at no point did I feel overwhelmed keeping up with each character. You will become attached to her characters in different ways with many emotions.
May 25, 2024
Advanced Reader EBook Review
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Thank you Booksirens for the advanced reader copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Dr. Hope Sullivan is not entirely the woman her patients think she is. Yes, she is a great diagnostician and has a wonderful bedside manner, but her life has fallen apart. She has lost everyone she cares about and to find meaning in life, she has a little side hobby. She makes people who deserve it suffer consequences for their crimes, which she calls tune-ups, and tries to make the world a better & safer place one person at a time. But then she gets an email, someone is watching her and knows what she is up to. When the stalker catches up with her and gives her a taste of what one of her tune-ups is like, she discovers an even darker secret. Hope knows she must act, but what is the best way to approach this new tune-up?
Thoughts:
Wow, that was really dark. Although not usually my thing, I am surprised by how much I was captivated by the story. I found myself rooting for both the doctor and her stalker, which was only slightly disturbing seeing as neither was your typical “good person”. I was not sure that this book was for me at first because I was not a big fan of the torture scenes, but as we learned more about Hope and her background and how she became this person, the more interested I became. And just when I thought I had things figured out the twists just kept coming. I was convinced I knew how all this would be resolved, but of course, I didn’t guess that right either. Overall, I really enjoyed the story, despite the dark themes and because of all the twists and turns.
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Thank you Booksirens for the advanced reader copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Dr. Hope Sullivan is not entirely the woman her patients think she is. Yes, she is a great diagnostician and has a wonderful bedside manner, but her life has fallen apart. She has lost everyone she cares about and to find meaning in life, she has a little side hobby. She makes people who deserve it suffer consequences for their crimes, which she calls tune-ups, and tries to make the world a better & safer place one person at a time. But then she gets an email, someone is watching her and knows what she is up to. When the stalker catches up with her and gives her a taste of what one of her tune-ups is like, she discovers an even darker secret. Hope knows she must act, but what is the best way to approach this new tune-up?
Thoughts:
Wow, that was really dark. Although not usually my thing, I am surprised by how much I was captivated by the story. I found myself rooting for both the doctor and her stalker, which was only slightly disturbing seeing as neither was your typical “good person”. I was not sure that this book was for me at first because I was not a big fan of the torture scenes, but as we learned more about Hope and her background and how she became this person, the more interested I became. And just when I thought I had things figured out the twists just kept coming. I was convinced I knew how all this would be resolved, but of course, I didn’t guess that right either. Overall, I really enjoyed the story, despite the dark themes and because of all the twists and turns.
June 30, 2024
To her Boston patients, Dr. Hope Sullivan is a conscientious doctor with a caring bedside manner. To her victims, she is a fierce protector of those who have been wronged. After losing everyone close to her, these revenge “tune-ups” are the only thing that make her feel...well...feel anything at all.
Until one day, a mysterious email threatens to expose her. I know what ur doing, it says.
At first, Hope ignores the electronic stalking, but when the threats become increasingly personal, she knows she must act. It isn’t until the stalker gives Hope a taste of her own medicine that she uncovers a far greater danger, both to herself and to the patients she cares for.
This really isn't a mystery in the truest sense of not knowing who's committing the crimes. The mystery is in whether Dr. Hope will eventually be caught out for what she's been doing.
While reading the book, I was always a little conflicted between my total understanding what she was doing and why, contrasted with recognizing the moral and ethical lines she was crossing. I wanted her to be a little more conflicted in the beginning as well, and that made it difficult to embrace her fully as a character that I could relate to.
Still, I kept reading, eager to see how this scenario would all play out.
The tension built to a nice crescendo as Dr. Hope considered her options after the threat was delivered, and the stakes were increased when her stalker decides to confront her in person.
This was an enjoyable read. Everything from the narrative, to the dialogue, to the pacing was spot on. And once again the author has proven herself as a top-notch thriller writer.
Until one day, a mysterious email threatens to expose her. I know what ur doing, it says.
At first, Hope ignores the electronic stalking, but when the threats become increasingly personal, she knows she must act. It isn’t until the stalker gives Hope a taste of her own medicine that she uncovers a far greater danger, both to herself and to the patients she cares for.
This really isn't a mystery in the truest sense of not knowing who's committing the crimes. The mystery is in whether Dr. Hope will eventually be caught out for what she's been doing.
While reading the book, I was always a little conflicted between my total understanding what she was doing and why, contrasted with recognizing the moral and ethical lines she was crossing. I wanted her to be a little more conflicted in the beginning as well, and that made it difficult to embrace her fully as a character that I could relate to.
Still, I kept reading, eager to see how this scenario would all play out.
The tension built to a nice crescendo as Dr. Hope considered her options after the threat was delivered, and the stakes were increased when her stalker decides to confront her in person.
This was an enjoyable read. Everything from the narrative, to the dialogue, to the pacing was spot on. And once again the author has proven herself as a top-notch thriller writer.
April 13, 2024
Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner here.
A caring, competent, compassionate general care doctor has a darker side. And yet, I had her back the whole time. This is a book about righting wrongs, about past loss, and about too many of today's society in general. Author Carrie Rubin explores the taboo that many of us sometimes think about. Can we get away with something illegal with no repercussions. Not this time, but the story progresses smoothly from one event to the next in a coherent and plausible timeline.
There's not much in the way of character depth, especially the villain, but there's enough. There were only two times I paused to think, 'Is that correct?" I don't know if there really is a chemical that kills that wouldn't be found in an autopsy. And I thought that any time a call is placed to 911, the police are required to respond. That it's not possible to talk one's way out of them coming to investigate. Minor points, I know, but those are the things that catch my eye.
Despite those possible errors of logic, I really liked this story. In my mind, there were two, equally plausible outcomes. The author chose the more acceptable one, and it worked well. The second option would certainly be darker, but in today's age, I guess it wouldn't have been very welcome.
I look forward to following and reading more of Ms. Rubin's books, especially the medical thrillers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A caring, competent, compassionate general care doctor has a darker side. And yet, I had her back the whole time. This is a book about righting wrongs, about past loss, and about too many of today's society in general. Author Carrie Rubin explores the taboo that many of us sometimes think about. Can we get away with something illegal with no repercussions. Not this time, but the story progresses smoothly from one event to the next in a coherent and plausible timeline.
There's not much in the way of character depth, especially the villain, but there's enough. There were only two times I paused to think, 'Is that correct?" I don't know if there really is a chemical that kills that wouldn't be found in an autopsy. And I thought that any time a call is placed to 911, the police are required to respond. That it's not possible to talk one's way out of them coming to investigate. Minor points, I know, but those are the things that catch my eye.
Despite those possible errors of logic, I really liked this story. In my mind, there were two, equally plausible outcomes. The author chose the more acceptable one, and it worked well. The second option would certainly be darker, but in today's age, I guess it wouldn't have been very welcome.
I look forward to following and reading more of Ms. Rubin's books, especially the medical thrillers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 10, 2026
*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book.*
DNF at 199 pages
This book wasn't horribly written, and it's probably a good quick read for some people who are fans of crime dramas with similar themes. I'm not sure how, but despite the first 2/3 of the book containing I found myself terribly bored. There is a lot of telling and not a lot of showing. Like instead of just letting her be an interesting unreliable narrator, it points out specifically that she might be wrong for assuming a patient didn’t cheat. There are a lot of reminders that the main character has lost a lot of people close to her with very little feeling. The plot also had a lot of holes, like I wasn't surprised by anything, and I just decided it wasn't worth it for me to continue reading, unfortunately.
DNF at 199 pages
This book wasn't horribly written, and it's probably a good quick read for some people who are fans of crime dramas with similar themes. I'm not sure how, but despite the first 2/3 of the book containing I found myself terribly bored. There is a lot of telling and not a lot of showing. Like instead of just letting her be an interesting unreliable narrator, it points out specifically that she might be wrong for assuming a patient didn’t cheat. There are a lot of reminders that the main character has lost a lot of people close to her with very little feeling. The plot also had a lot of holes, like I wasn't surprised by anything, and I just decided it wasn't worth it for me to continue reading, unfortunately.
April 13, 2024
A book filled with grief, loss, medical misdeeds, and how one tries to fix the wrongs inflicted by others. Hope is a doctor with little to live for except her patients. Her parents, fiancée and baby were taken from her and in order to feel anything but sadness, she is helping others although in an unconventional way. When she is kidnapped by a man seeking his own revenge, two doctor’s misdeeds will be unearthed, both having a devastating impact on Hope and have her questioning if it’s time to forgive or forget her oath to “do no harm.”
I enjoyed this book by a new author to me. The characters were great, and I liked how their lives interconnected and not always in the best way. It was introducing a Dexter-like character (although not a serial killer, yet) to the field of medicine where ethics is crucial. The struggle to believe the good in people and doing the right thing felt real and authentic. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens to Hope in the future and whom might be in need of some “special” medicine. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book by a new author to me. The characters were great, and I liked how their lives interconnected and not always in the best way. It was introducing a Dexter-like character (although not a serial killer, yet) to the field of medicine where ethics is crucial. The struggle to believe the good in people and doing the right thing felt real and authentic. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens to Hope in the future and whom might be in need of some “special” medicine. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2024
I read an advance copy of this book in return for a voluntary review. From the first page, the story held my attention, and I wasn't surprised to learn that the author is a physician because there is a lot of medical terminology and conditions that give the story more credibility. The story lost half a star for being a bit far-fetched, but not so much as to render the tale implausible or ludicrous. In fact, if a sequel were to surface, I'd add it to my TBR pile.
The basis of this book is a vigilante doctor, Hope, who specializes in hematology. She has suffered repeatedly. First, she loses her parents in a car accident. The person who caused the accident never owned up and wasn't caught. Then her fiancé dies. She suffers a miscarriage. Her list of hardships is endless. Other than daily affirmations via an app and caring diligently for her patients, she lives for 'tune- ups'. These relate to her extracurricular activities where she chooses to teach bad people a lesson. Her problems start when she is incorrectly blamed for the death of a patient and recorded delivering a tune-up. 4 and a half stars.
The basis of this book is a vigilante doctor, Hope, who specializes in hematology. She has suffered repeatedly. First, she loses her parents in a car accident. The person who caused the accident never owned up and wasn't caught. Then her fiancé dies. She suffers a miscarriage. Her list of hardships is endless. Other than daily affirmations via an app and caring diligently for her patients, she lives for 'tune- ups'. These relate to her extracurricular activities where she chooses to teach bad people a lesson. Her problems start when she is incorrectly blamed for the death of a patient and recorded delivering a tune-up. 4 and a half stars.
September 2, 2024
This was a suspenseful, medical thriller, that kept me engaged the entire way through. Dr. Hope Sullivan is a respected physician who has lost everyone that mattered to her. She feels utterly ALONE in the world. In her field she sees all sorts of abuse & injustice, and she decides to do some “tune-up” work on the side… which involves exacting some vigilante justice. Rarely does a book have me rooting for “the bad guy” to win, but you are drawn to her as she tries to help everyone. She does have a kind heart, just goes overboard with some of her “tune ups”. What happens when the person in need of a “tune-up” is a fellow doctor and Hope herself is framed for something she didn’t do, things take a wild turn. I liked the way that some of the parts you would assume would be revealed at the end, we’re in fact given half way in. It gives this thriller a new light, and way of being written that drew my attention,
This book has you feeling all the things, for all the characters (empathy, anger, revenge, justice, sorrow, pain, happiness, relief) and the pacing was excellent. The twists were very well done. I thought the ending was headed a certain way, and was utterly satisfied.
This book has you feeling all the things, for all the characters (empathy, anger, revenge, justice, sorrow, pain, happiness, relief) and the pacing was excellent. The twists were very well done. I thought the ending was headed a certain way, and was utterly satisfied.
May 10, 2024
Wow. This book was fantastic! It started off with a bang and continued with a fast but even pace. I was gripped throughout and I couldn't put it down. It was full of twists and turns up through the very last page.
This is a psychological murder drama, with complex (and crazy) characters, in a medical setting. The narrator has had some pretty harsh challenges in her life, and she deals with it by taking some...unconventional steps to right the world's wrongs. The writing is tight and strong, and every person who shows up ends up playing a role in the story.
There are many parallel characters who have challenging lives, and they each respond in different ways. The plot gives readers a sampling of how people can gain redemption, and it explores the question of what is moral when it comes to revenge.
I really couldn't imagine how she would end this, but the ending felt just right. I loved this and can't wait to read more by this author.
5/5
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advanced copy for review.
This is a psychological murder drama, with complex (and crazy) characters, in a medical setting. The narrator has had some pretty harsh challenges in her life, and she deals with it by taking some...unconventional steps to right the world's wrongs. The writing is tight and strong, and every person who shows up ends up playing a role in the story.
There are many parallel characters who have challenging lives, and they each respond in different ways. The plot gives readers a sampling of how people can gain redemption, and it explores the question of what is moral when it comes to revenge.
I really couldn't imagine how she would end this, but the ending felt just right. I loved this and can't wait to read more by this author.
5/5
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for an advanced copy for review.
October 10, 2024
Big thanks to NetGalley for access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
Broken Hope is a story that has a little bit of Grey's Anatomy mixed with a little bit of Dexter. Hope Sullivan is a well respected doctor who tragically has lost everyone she cares about. The person responsible for her parents death was never found leaving her grasping for answers and seeking justice. She uses her pain to "tune up" people who do wrong and make them change their actions. Making her the type of character you can root for.
I really enjoyed this book. The writing was well done, easily moving you along in the story without and gaps or inconsistencies. The medical knowledge was on point and for the most part the situations were believable. The character development of Hope throughout the story was really well done. The progression from overwhelming grief to anger and then to acceptance and forgiveness was beautifully portrayed.
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a medical thriller that is fast paced and keeps you engaged throughout the whole story.
Broken Hope is a story that has a little bit of Grey's Anatomy mixed with a little bit of Dexter. Hope Sullivan is a well respected doctor who tragically has lost everyone she cares about. The person responsible for her parents death was never found leaving her grasping for answers and seeking justice. She uses her pain to "tune up" people who do wrong and make them change their actions. Making her the type of character you can root for.
I really enjoyed this book. The writing was well done, easily moving you along in the story without and gaps or inconsistencies. The medical knowledge was on point and for the most part the situations were believable. The character development of Hope throughout the story was really well done. The progression from overwhelming grief to anger and then to acceptance and forgiveness was beautifully portrayed.
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a medical thriller that is fast paced and keeps you engaged throughout the whole story.
May 18, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Broken Hope by Carrie Rubin will keep you on your toes and at the end of your seat nearly all the way through! This is such a suspenseful thriller about revenge and justice that will catch your attention from the first page! This book was so good!!! And I loved the ending!!! It was so perfect! In some way, I would love it if there would be a second book as there is good potential!
Broken Hope is about Doctor Hope, a doctor who has lost all her hope. Doctor Hope Sullivan is there to help and heal and teach to be better. Some people need a more tough approach and Hope is happy to deliver it! But things get heated when an unexpected e-mail arrives... someone knows...
If you think this is where this book heading you are wrong as an unexpected layer of events takes over the storyline. From now on you can't put this book down because you must know!
So thankful to Booksirens and Carrie Rubin for the opportunity to read this book in advance!
Broken Hope by Carrie Rubin will keep you on your toes and at the end of your seat nearly all the way through! This is such a suspenseful thriller about revenge and justice that will catch your attention from the first page! This book was so good!!! And I loved the ending!!! It was so perfect! In some way, I would love it if there would be a second book as there is good potential!
Broken Hope is about Doctor Hope, a doctor who has lost all her hope. Doctor Hope Sullivan is there to help and heal and teach to be better. Some people need a more tough approach and Hope is happy to deliver it! But things get heated when an unexpected e-mail arrives... someone knows...
If you think this is where this book heading you are wrong as an unexpected layer of events takes over the storyline. From now on you can't put this book down because you must know!
So thankful to Booksirens and Carrie Rubin for the opportunity to read this book in advance!
March 22, 2024
This is a compelling, gripping, and intense story. I am #teamhope! I think many good people do what society calls "bad things". I believe some people are trying to balance out all the wrongs and evil actions by countering them with vigilante acts to correct wrongs, which helps victims of abuse/violence when the court system can't or won't help them. I'm not arguing ethics or right and wrong on vigilante acts, because there are varying opinions. In this one, I think one Dr. was doing evil. while another tried to balance the scales and give the evil doers payback and a taste of their own medicine. Either way you decide , or who's side you're on, this was a stunning and stimulating read to the last word. I highly recommend this book. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion
June 10, 2024
This medical mystery centers around family practice physician Dr. Hope Sullivan. Dr Sullivan has an unusual & creepy side hobby as a vigilante. She basically threatens, coerces and/or tortures people who have wronged others until they see the light and change their ways. It is an odd and unique premise for a novel but one that is intriguing from the start. The story gets complicated when a string of patient deaths seem connected and, perhaps, not accidental. Dr. Sullivan is determined to find out what is happening.
The author really creates an amazing character in Hope - one that the reader both fears and wants to succeed. And in perfect thriller fashion, the book has multiple twists and turns that keeps the reader engaged and uncertain where the ending will finally land.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The author really creates an amazing character in Hope - one that the reader both fears and wants to succeed. And in perfect thriller fashion, the book has multiple twists and turns that keeps the reader engaged and uncertain where the ending will finally land.
I received an advanced copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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