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A Life Less Broken
On a day like any other, Allyn Sommers went off to work, not knowing that her life was about to be irrevocably and horrifically altered.
Three years later, Allyn is still a prisoner in her own home held captive by harrowing fear. Broken and damaged, Allyn seeks help from someone that fate brought her.
Dr. Dominic Shriver is a psychiatrist who’s drawn to difficult cases. He must push past his own personal battles to help Allyn fight her monsters and nightmares.
Is Dr. Shriver the answer to her healing?
Can Allyn overcome the broken?
Contains distressing content. Only suitable for 18+. Standalone.
Three years later, Allyn is still a prisoner in her own home held captive by harrowing fear. Broken and damaged, Allyn seeks help from someone that fate brought her.
Dr. Dominic Shriver is a psychiatrist who’s drawn to difficult cases. He must push past his own personal battles to help Allyn fight her monsters and nightmares.
Is Dr. Shriver the answer to her healing?
Can Allyn overcome the broken?
Contains distressing content. Only suitable for 18+. Standalone.
Unknown Binding
First published May 9, 2014
481 people are currently reading
1637 people want to read
About the author
Margaret McHeyzer
51 books1,180 followersNEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING AUTHOR OF UGLY AND MISTRUST
I’m a two-time New York Times bestselling author for my stand-alone books Ugly and Mistrust. To date I’ve published over 30 books!
I’m first generation Australian born and live in Sydney with my husband, two daughters and my rescue-dog, Kingston!
I love to write stories to connect my readers to my strong, courageous characters…with some spice sprinkled between the pages.
The characters I write about can pop into my mind anytime and anywhere. From the shower, to washing dishes, playing with my puppy or even in my dreams. My characters can sometimes be intrusive, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Thank you for taking this journey with me and I truly hope you love reading my stories as much as I love writing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 275 reviews
September 7, 2016
3 stars!
I liked it but didn’t love it – reading this book literally felt like a rollercoaster ride as there were many high and low points.
First I need to mention the way the book is structured as it’s quite different, unique, and tasteful – there is a pre-prologue, a prologue, and ends with 4 epilogues (all from different POVs). This author is known for her “different” works so aside from the already intriguing premise, the book structure is also something new to behold.
The story is about a young, bright, and full-of-life girl Allyn who, on a dark, gloomy day, experiences an ordeal no one should have to go through. With all the detailed descriptions and multiple flashbacks to this horrific event in Allyn’s life, I was really expecting myself to feel the raw, emotional turmoil and all of her pain and anguish; however, I didn’t. I was more depressed and ready to move on than anything – that probably says more about me than anyone else.
Another part of the book that made it seemingly compelling was the taboo aspect – Allyn, a disfigured, skittish, scarred girl in a relationship with her much older psychiatrist who’s got a few secrets of his own? Well sign me up! I definitely appreciated the parts where Dominic was there to help Allyn accept and move forward with her life – those parts were really well done. However, I couldn’t process the idea of them together, and this is coming from someone who adores anything taboo and forbidden. There is this very messed up twist added into the story and while it definitely caught my attention and made me think, wow this author is good, it killed my belief that Allyn and Dominic would be able to sustain a long-term relationship. Thus, any kind of healing done after that point I was pretty dubious about – to me, it seemed a little contrived. It was also weird that after 3 years of introverted behavior, Allyn would just suddenly take to Dominic in an instant. It really made me wonder – why now, why Dominic rather it being one nice continuous and believable transition into the story.
As for the epilogues I have very mixed feelings. In terms of satisfying my personal curiosity, the epilogues are a big hit. I’ve always wanted to be in the head of Allyn’s perpetrators so I loved getting their POVs – A+ for that. However, in terms of plot and story development, the epilogues were a disaster for me. The author gave these bad guys hearts – these people who were supposedly villains to the core, monsters who committed heinous crimes. Whether or not it was the author’s intention to inspire pity and sadness for them, it nevertheless ruined the antagonist image for me.
I would recommend this book if you are looking for a story with some heavy content that ultimately sends out an inspirational and uplifting message and at the same time, don’t mind a couple of topsy-turvy twists thrown your way.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I liked it but didn’t love it – reading this book literally felt like a rollercoaster ride as there were many high and low points.
First I need to mention the way the book is structured as it’s quite different, unique, and tasteful – there is a pre-prologue, a prologue, and ends with 4 epilogues (all from different POVs). This author is known for her “different” works so aside from the already intriguing premise, the book structure is also something new to behold.
The story is about a young, bright, and full-of-life girl Allyn who, on a dark, gloomy day, experiences an ordeal no one should have to go through. With all the detailed descriptions and multiple flashbacks to this horrific event in Allyn’s life, I was really expecting myself to feel the raw, emotional turmoil and all of her pain and anguish; however, I didn’t. I was more depressed and ready to move on than anything – that probably says more about me than anyone else.
Another part of the book that made it seemingly compelling was the taboo aspect – Allyn, a disfigured, skittish, scarred girl in a relationship with her much older psychiatrist who’s got a few secrets of his own? Well sign me up! I definitely appreciated the parts where Dominic was there to help Allyn accept and move forward with her life – those parts were really well done. However, I couldn’t process the idea of them together, and this is coming from someone who adores anything taboo and forbidden. There is this very messed up twist added into the story and while it definitely caught my attention and made me think, wow this author is good, it killed my belief that Allyn and Dominic would be able to sustain a long-term relationship. Thus, any kind of healing done after that point I was pretty dubious about – to me, it seemed a little contrived. It was also weird that after 3 years of introverted behavior, Allyn would just suddenly take to Dominic in an instant. It really made me wonder – why now, why Dominic rather it being one nice continuous and believable transition into the story.
As for the epilogues I have very mixed feelings. In terms of satisfying my personal curiosity, the epilogues are a big hit. I’ve always wanted to be in the head of Allyn’s perpetrators so I loved getting their POVs – A+ for that. However, in terms of plot and story development, the epilogues were a disaster for me. The author gave these bad guys hearts – these people who were supposedly villains to the core, monsters who committed heinous crimes. Whether or not it was the author’s intention to inspire pity and sadness for them, it nevertheless ruined the antagonist image for me.
I would recommend this book if you are looking for a story with some heavy content that ultimately sends out an inspirational and uplifting message and at the same time, don’t mind a couple of topsy-turvy twists thrown your way.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2016
BR with my lovely Anna!
October 19, 2014
Perhaps this was a case of "It's not you it's me" but this just did not do it for me.
I was sitting on the edge of my seat the first 25% and loving every minute of this book. I read about a young girl whose life was taken the day she was kidnapped and brutalized then left for dead. Some small miracle had her clinging to life only to be found barely breathing. After multiple broken bones, horrific scarring inside and outside of her body she is now a recluse living in her "locked up tight prison" called her home. Not a day goes by that she lives in fear and complete panic.
Perhaps there is hope because Dr. Dominic Shriver, the older, wiser, very attractive psychiatrist to those of brutal crimes seems to provide that kind of therapy! Seems as if he can help her...all she has to do is open the door!
Ok, so this is where the problems started. We have a broken woman, I mean out of control bad, and a smooth talking man who is amazingly gentle. His type of therapy is perfect for her as he distracts her and focuses on positive good things. Hell he even gets a smile. The issue is that he seems to cross that professional barrier pretty fast. Allyn may need a doctor, but this man seems to need her just as much.
Too much emotional connection. Too much "I want to be by your side forever." Too much "I only see your courage and your beautiful soul." What???
I think if the good doctor left her alone a for a damn minute she would have flown right out the window! So no, I didn't really enjoy this. I almost stopped at the 70% mark, however the last 2-3% were worth the mediocrity!
I was sitting on the edge of my seat the first 25% and loving every minute of this book. I read about a young girl whose life was taken the day she was kidnapped and brutalized then left for dead. Some small miracle had her clinging to life only to be found barely breathing. After multiple broken bones, horrific scarring inside and outside of her body she is now a recluse living in her "locked up tight prison" called her home. Not a day goes by that she lives in fear and complete panic.
Perhaps there is hope because Dr. Dominic Shriver, the older, wiser, very attractive psychiatrist to those of brutal crimes seems to provide that kind of therapy! Seems as if he can help her...all she has to do is open the door!
Ok, so this is where the problems started. We have a broken woman, I mean out of control bad, and a smooth talking man who is amazingly gentle. His type of therapy is perfect for her as he distracts her and focuses on positive good things. Hell he even gets a smile. The issue is that he seems to cross that professional barrier pretty fast. Allyn may need a doctor, but this man seems to need her just as much.
Too much emotional connection. Too much "I want to be by your side forever." Too much "I only see your courage and your beautiful soul." What???
I think if the good doctor left her alone a for a damn minute she would have flown right out the window! So no, I didn't really enjoy this. I almost stopped at the 70% mark, however the last 2-3% were worth the mediocrity!
July 11, 2015
2.5 - 3 Stars!
I was really loving this one until 50%. I hate insta-love!! I skimmed after that.
I just couldn't wrap my mind around a girl that went through that much abuse. Never leaving her house for 3 years afterwards. No mirrors. No going outside. Nobody coming over except her parents. No friends. Nothing! She's a freaking mess. Then Dr. Dominic comes along and things become better?? Then they fall in love so fast. Hell is divorce ain't even final yet. lol
There is a twist around 75% that just made me want to skim more to the end. lol Unbelievable!! Dominic was way to surgery sweet for me. lol
I was really loving this one until 50%. I hate insta-love!! I skimmed after that.
I just couldn't wrap my mind around a girl that went through that much abuse. Never leaving her house for 3 years afterwards. No mirrors. No going outside. Nobody coming over except her parents. No friends. Nothing! She's a freaking mess. Then Dr. Dominic comes along and things become better?? Then they fall in love so fast. Hell is divorce ain't even final yet. lol
There is a twist around 75% that just made me want to skim more to the end. lol Unbelievable!! Dominic was way to surgery sweet for me. lol
May 5, 2014
MY RATING: ☆☆☆☆☆ "A Life Less Broken" by Margaret McHeyzer
This blue jay has spread her wings
Complimentary copy provided by the author "Margaret McHeyzer" in exchange for an honest review.
Allyn Sommers works in a clothing store Thursday is usually one of the busiest days of the week due to new stock arriving at the store add being understaffed with girls off sick she was run off her feet, her boss wasn't able to get to the store until about 4.00pm..
She knew something was off about this day!! A feeling of foreboding!! Something dark and looming waiting to strike..
3.30PM
The bell over the door startles her and a really cute guy walks in..
"My girlfriend sent me in to buy a dress she saw at one of your other stores. Apparently it's new, just came in today. But the store she went to didn't have her size."
"I just got in some new stock. If you know which dress she needs, I can go take a look."
"That'll put me in her good books if you can. Um, she said it was blue and fitted over one shoulder with a strap thing that goes around her waist. She said she's a size ten." He looks at me like he has no idea.
I chuckle to myself and shake my head. "I'll go out the back and look, give me a minute."
She never gets a chance to leave that room on her own accord, she hears them, but can't see them, she tries to scream but something is over her face. She tries to fight but is unable to as she is restrained..
At this point it is hard reading, and believe me it will make you emotional, I'm not really a crier but this story did get to me..
Blackness over takes her..She was missing for three days before she was found..
"I survived them and what they did to me"
A prisoner in her own home, bars installed on the windows, all doors replaced with double reinforced steel and a state of the art alarm system.
"She fights every day against the dark"
Her daily ritual is checking and double checking that all doors, windows are secure and the alarm is activated, this goes on for days, months, years..
"Monsters can't come inside my house if I keep the door closed and stay inside."
"I'm chained by fear"
The perpetrators were never caught
There are no mirrors in her house, the tv screen is covered incase she catches a glimpse of the broken person's reflection..
"I'll never be whole. There will always be cracks."
Bit by bit, day by day Dominic brings her back to life, together these two heal with what others have inflicted on them..
"He possesses me, owns me, and his love has led me to a life less broken."
I can honestly say without a lie that this is by far my favorite book by this author, it's on the borderline of dark, it's gritty, it's shocking, it's emotional, it's totally fucked up and sooooo fucking believable that your heart will weep for Allyn, I want to say so much more in my review but I don't want to spoil it..
This blue jay has spread her wings
Complimentary copy provided by the author "Margaret McHeyzer" in exchange for an honest review.
Allyn Sommers works in a clothing store Thursday is usually one of the busiest days of the week due to new stock arriving at the store add being understaffed with girls off sick she was run off her feet, her boss wasn't able to get to the store until about 4.00pm..
She knew something was off about this day!! A feeling of foreboding!! Something dark and looming waiting to strike..
3.30PM
The bell over the door startles her and a really cute guy walks in..
"My girlfriend sent me in to buy a dress she saw at one of your other stores. Apparently it's new, just came in today. But the store she went to didn't have her size."
"I just got in some new stock. If you know which dress she needs, I can go take a look."
"That'll put me in her good books if you can. Um, she said it was blue and fitted over one shoulder with a strap thing that goes around her waist. She said she's a size ten." He looks at me like he has no idea.
I chuckle to myself and shake my head. "I'll go out the back and look, give me a minute."
She never gets a chance to leave that room on her own accord, she hears them, but can't see them, she tries to scream but something is over her face. She tries to fight but is unable to as she is restrained..
At this point it is hard reading, and believe me it will make you emotional, I'm not really a crier but this story did get to me..
Blackness over takes her..She was missing for three days before she was found..
"I survived them and what they did to me"
A prisoner in her own home, bars installed on the windows, all doors replaced with double reinforced steel and a state of the art alarm system.
"She fights every day against the dark"
Her daily ritual is checking and double checking that all doors, windows are secure and the alarm is activated, this goes on for days, months, years..
"Monsters can't come inside my house if I keep the door closed and stay inside."
"I'm chained by fear"
The perpetrators were never caught
There are no mirrors in her house, the tv screen is covered incase she catches a glimpse of the broken person's reflection..
"I'll never be whole. There will always be cracks."
Bit by bit, day by day Dominic brings her back to life, together these two heal with what others have inflicted on them..
"He possesses me, owns me, and his love has led me to a life less broken."
I can honestly say without a lie that this is by far my favorite book by this author, it's on the borderline of dark, it's gritty, it's shocking, it's emotional, it's totally fucked up and sooooo fucking believable that your heart will weep for Allyn, I want to say so much more in my review but I don't want to spoil it..
June 29, 2015
***** 5 WOW Stars *****
Allyn Sommer's story broke my heart into tiny pieces.
Living a normal life, the young and beautiful Allyn goes to work one day, has a very strange feeling deep inside her stomach. Something doesn't feel right but, her day is busy. As her day finally slows down, a gentleman enters the store she works in and asks her a question that gets Allyn to go back into the store room where her worst nightmare is waiting.
Two men drug Allyn and abduct her. What she endures next is beyond anything I have ever read before. It literally gutted me. I am good with dark, gritty rawness but the words of her attack are brutally horrible.
Living through being raped repeatedly by men and objects, beaten, bitten, several bones broke, face badly beaten, urinated on, sliced several times and then left to drown and die. How she survives that alone, beyond thinkable.
As her broken body has recovered, Allyn's soul is beyond the repair she tries to find on a daily basis. Locking herself away in her house, avoiding everyone, Allyn tries to breath and find clarity. She is losing hope in her fight to live.
As a last ditch attempt to save what is left of herself, Allyn finds Dominic Shriver, a psychiatrist that helps abused individuals learn to live again.
As Dominic helps Allyn recover tiny step by step, their relationship takes a turn and crosses the doctor-patient barriers and feelings begin to grow. They both know these feelings should be stopped but neither can. They need each other!
Their story....AMAZING!!! I have no other words. Reading how Allyn and Dominc ultimately heal each other was heartwarming. I was so engrossed in their story that it was impossible to remember quotes or make any kind notes at how to explain it. This one just affected me and I loved every minute of it. I couldn't put this story down.
PS...there is a twist near the end in this story I must say was....SHOCKING!! If this book was not emotional enough...the ending brings Dominic to his knees.
FABULOUS WORK MISS MCHEYZER!!!
Allyn Sommer's story broke my heart into tiny pieces.
Living a normal life, the young and beautiful Allyn goes to work one day, has a very strange feeling deep inside her stomach. Something doesn't feel right but, her day is busy. As her day finally slows down, a gentleman enters the store she works in and asks her a question that gets Allyn to go back into the store room where her worst nightmare is waiting.
Two men drug Allyn and abduct her. What she endures next is beyond anything I have ever read before. It literally gutted me. I am good with dark, gritty rawness but the words of her attack are brutally horrible.
Living through being raped repeatedly by men and objects, beaten, bitten, several bones broke, face badly beaten, urinated on, sliced several times and then left to drown and die. How she survives that alone, beyond thinkable.
As her broken body has recovered, Allyn's soul is beyond the repair she tries to find on a daily basis. Locking herself away in her house, avoiding everyone, Allyn tries to breath and find clarity. She is losing hope in her fight to live.
As a last ditch attempt to save what is left of herself, Allyn finds Dominic Shriver, a psychiatrist that helps abused individuals learn to live again.
As Dominic helps Allyn recover tiny step by step, their relationship takes a turn and crosses the doctor-patient barriers and feelings begin to grow. They both know these feelings should be stopped but neither can. They need each other!
Their story....AMAZING!!! I have no other words. Reading how Allyn and Dominc ultimately heal each other was heartwarming. I was so engrossed in their story that it was impossible to remember quotes or make any kind notes at how to explain it. This one just affected me and I loved every minute of it. I couldn't put this story down.
PS...there is a twist near the end in this story I must say was....SHOCKING!! If this book was not emotional enough...the ending brings Dominic to his knees.
FABULOUS WORK MISS MCHEYZER!!!
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September 30, 2014
A Life Less Broken is now the second book that I have read for author Margaret McHeyzer and there is just something about these books that really suck me in. Her portrayal of traumatic events are raw and hold nothing back. Her use of descriptive language paints such a vivid picture that is almost tangible. Her story lines are unique, characters are well thought out, and a talent for pushing you just past your comfort zone without going over the top.
This is the story of Allyn, an average girl who was met with a very unfortunate event. Attacked, brutalized, raped within an inch of her life she is no longer living, just existing. A shell of a person living alone in her home, paralyzed by fear and the ugly memories of her brutal assault. Refusing to leave her home she has become a victim to daily rituals as a way to feel some sence of control over her life. After three years of therapy with little progress she is at her lowest and ready to give up until she comes across a television show features rape survivors and the amazing Dr. Dominic Shriver who helped them. Making that difficult first call for help starts her on a journey of recovery where she finds so much more than just herself.
Reading about Allyn’s rape was stomach churning and uncomfortable, her pain and fears were palpable. She is the type of character that you say a prayer for because no one should ever experience what she did so when Dr. Dominic Shriver showed up I really was excited to see what would happen.
I had high hopes that he would be the one to break through and save her. Those first few sessions between Ally and Dr. Shriver, the patience that it took to gain Allyn’s trust, the honesty of their conversations and the small little glimpses of progress where what I loved about this book. As their relationship moves forward however into a more romantic one is when I started to pull back a little. I didn’t fully understand what they saw in each other outside of the doctor patient relationship. I understood why Dominic was impressed with Allyn’s strength and courage, anyone would be based on her experiences. I could also see the calming effect that he had on Allyn but outside of that I needed more depth, more emotion to get that little tingle in my tummy when I know my characters are truly meant for each other. But don’t let that little critique stop you from reading this book. It really was very well done.
Finally, I also would like to mention the epilogue or more specifically the four different epilogues each from a different characters POV. There were like the icing on the cake for me. All of the pain and suffering that Allyn had to suffer was vindicated as best it could be. It goes to show that karma truly is a bitch.
With a Life Less Broken and her previous novel Yes, Master, Margaret McHeyezer has now solidified herself onto “the list”, the 'I will one-click every book you write list'. So go forth and give it a click!
This is the story of Allyn, an average girl who was met with a very unfortunate event. Attacked, brutalized, raped within an inch of her life she is no longer living, just existing. A shell of a person living alone in her home, paralyzed by fear and the ugly memories of her brutal assault. Refusing to leave her home she has become a victim to daily rituals as a way to feel some sence of control over her life. After three years of therapy with little progress she is at her lowest and ready to give up until she comes across a television show features rape survivors and the amazing Dr. Dominic Shriver who helped them. Making that difficult first call for help starts her on a journey of recovery where she finds so much more than just herself.
Reading about Allyn’s rape was stomach churning and uncomfortable, her pain and fears were palpable. She is the type of character that you say a prayer for because no one should ever experience what she did so when Dr. Dominic Shriver showed up I really was excited to see what would happen.
I had high hopes that he would be the one to break through and save her. Those first few sessions between Ally and Dr. Shriver, the patience that it took to gain Allyn’s trust, the honesty of their conversations and the small little glimpses of progress where what I loved about this book. As their relationship moves forward however into a more romantic one is when I started to pull back a little. I didn’t fully understand what they saw in each other outside of the doctor patient relationship. I understood why Dominic was impressed with Allyn’s strength and courage, anyone would be based on her experiences. I could also see the calming effect that he had on Allyn but outside of that I needed more depth, more emotion to get that little tingle in my tummy when I know my characters are truly meant for each other. But don’t let that little critique stop you from reading this book. It really was very well done.
Finally, I also would like to mention the epilogue or more specifically the four different epilogues each from a different characters POV. There were like the icing on the cake for me. All of the pain and suffering that Allyn had to suffer was vindicated as best it could be. It goes to show that karma truly is a bitch.
With a Life Less Broken and her previous novel Yes, Master, Margaret McHeyezer has now solidified herself onto “the list”, the 'I will one-click every book you write list'. So go forth and give it a click!
March 6, 2020
1 DNF Star
DNF at 35%
I decided to read this book because it is an age gap and doctor/patient trope, two of my favorite things in books, but so many things were bad with this book I couldn't continue.
Trying not to be mean, but the writing wasn't good AT ALL. It wasn't engaging, it was very straight forward, and bland. The doctor/hero had very little thoughts of ethics when he started liking and taking care of the heroine, VERY unrealistic. Where is that ethical and moral struggle? He also laughs at his own jokes, hmm... The heroine hasn't left her house in 3 years, but leaves after only 10 days working with the hero, most of those days only consisting of little talk like what their favorite season is. She also hadn't smiled for 3 years, but smiles within the first five minutes of knowing the hero. Again, very unrealistic. The heroine's reactions to everything was definitely exaggerated too, and again, unrealistic for a person that went through the trauma she did. This was just a very messy, unresearched book.
DNF at 35%
I decided to read this book because it is an age gap and doctor/patient trope, two of my favorite things in books, but so many things were bad with this book I couldn't continue.
Trying not to be mean, but the writing wasn't good AT ALL. It wasn't engaging, it was very straight forward, and bland. The doctor/hero had very little thoughts of ethics when he started liking and taking care of the heroine, VERY unrealistic. Where is that ethical and moral struggle? He also laughs at his own jokes, hmm... The heroine hasn't left her house in 3 years, but leaves after only 10 days working with the hero, most of those days only consisting of little talk like what their favorite season is. She also hadn't smiled for 3 years, but smiles within the first five minutes of knowing the hero. Again, very unrealistic. The heroine's reactions to everything was definitely exaggerated too, and again, unrealistic for a person that went through the trauma she did. This was just a very messy, unresearched book.
November 26, 2015
2.5 stars!! I have to say I went into this one expecting a dark emotional read, just from the synopsis I could feel it and when I went into the book and read the first few chapters I knew that what I felt was correct. However, for me the execution wasn't there. I am an emotional reader, I have to live and breathe a story and connect with the characters and unfortunately this did not happen for me. There were no tears and with a tough subject matter such as these I should have been bawling my eyes out. For someone that had been a recluse for three years I felt her relationship with Dominic was too quick and quite unbelievable. However I did finish the book because I wanted to see what happened and the drama at the end and the convenience of it all just made me roll my eyes, so unfortunately for me this just didn't work.
May 11, 2014
“A Life Less Broken” it's a contemporary romance and a fantastic tale of inspiration and hope. It doesn't have a lot of sex. It's not erotica. This author says she “Doesn't do normal.” Yep! That’s so true! What she does do is make you FEEL. I loved this book, and would totally recommend it, but have a box of tissues with you! Nice twists and surprises. There is more than the usual book format, too. Margaret, you are so out there! You push boundaries, and I love that.
January 13, 2023
FUCK. fuck. this destroyed me. this just fucking shattered me.
May 10, 2014
~ I was given this book in exchange for an honest review ~
Margaret McHeyzer "doesn't do normal" as she says in her bio...no kidding. When I read Yes, Master I was shocked and just floored at how deeply dark and depraved her writing was but at the same time very freeing and healing. Now I was given a copy of A Life Less Broken and all I can say is WOW...this woman writes from a seriously scary and emotionally twisted place and oh YES, I loved every word of it (when I wasn't sniffling or holding my churning stomach).
"On a day like any other, Allyn Sommers went off to work, not knowing that her life was about to be irrevocably and horrifically altered."
This is the way most every normal person goes about their business...get up, go to work, rinse and repeat...but unfortunately some people do become victims of accidents or terrible crime and this is the story of one such woman.
Please DO heed the warnings...she tells you in both the pre-prologue and prologue...very distressing content is an understatement...but as with most things, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
I can't say too much about what happens after Allyn starts seeing her new Psychiatrist Dominic Shriver without spoiling this magnificent experience for other readers, but I will tell you it is a beautiful and very emotionally powerful story about taking back your life and learning to love yourself again. There are a few surprises in the already twisted plot that you may or may not see coming (a few red flags popped out a me at one point) but you will be rewarded with the multiple POV epilogue endings. Made me shiver and smile at my kindle because even though I really hate violence, sometimes it just makes you feel good and is a necessary vehicle.
Read this if you dare and try not to walk around looking over your shoulder every time you leave the house, after this one =)
***** 5 ***** "finding your wings again" =)
Margaret McHeyzer "doesn't do normal" as she says in her bio...no kidding. When I read Yes, Master I was shocked and just floored at how deeply dark and depraved her writing was but at the same time very freeing and healing. Now I was given a copy of A Life Less Broken and all I can say is WOW...this woman writes from a seriously scary and emotionally twisted place and oh YES, I loved every word of it (when I wasn't sniffling or holding my churning stomach).
"On a day like any other, Allyn Sommers went off to work, not knowing that her life was about to be irrevocably and horrifically altered."
This is the way most every normal person goes about their business...get up, go to work, rinse and repeat...but unfortunately some people do become victims of accidents or terrible crime and this is the story of one such woman.
Please DO heed the warnings...she tells you in both the pre-prologue and prologue...very distressing content is an understatement...but as with most things, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
I can't say too much about what happens after Allyn starts seeing her new Psychiatrist Dominic Shriver without spoiling this magnificent experience for other readers, but I will tell you it is a beautiful and very emotionally powerful story about taking back your life and learning to love yourself again. There are a few surprises in the already twisted plot that you may or may not see coming (a few red flags popped out a me at one point) but you will be rewarded with the multiple POV epilogue endings. Made me shiver and smile at my kindle because even though I really hate violence, sometimes it just makes you feel good and is a necessary vehicle.
Read this if you dare and try not to walk around looking over your shoulder every time you leave the house, after this one =)
***** 5 ***** "finding your wings again" =)
April 28, 2014
" You took my choices away"...
I had to mentally prepare myself before I read this, I knew it was going to be gut wrenching and painful. I was right. I ugly cried through this book on more than one occasion. Margaret does such a wonderful job at expressing the characters emotions, it was impossible not to cry throughout the book. Your dealing with more than one real life issue in this book and both of those more often than not get swept under the rug and never discussed. I love how light could be brought to such dark topics.
Allyn was 20 and full of life, she had it all in front of her, a promising long future full of hope and happiness. Her promising life ended in the split of a second. Her youthful body and strawberry blonde hair made her prey for the predators. In an instant her life was taken, they took everything away from her. All that was left was a shell of a person. She wasn't living, only breathing and fearful of everything around her.
Dominic is a psychiatrist who handles difficult cases. Fate brings Dominic into Allyn's life. He and Allyn embark on a journey that may leave her broken forever, or he may just be the perfect medicine for her broken life.
This isn't a mushy, lovey dovey story. This is raw, real emotions that will break your heart, make you cry and leave you hoping that Allyn can find not only peace with what happened to her but peace within herself. I wanted to hug Allyn on more than one occasion, I wanted to high five Dominic several times, and as gruesome and graphic as the epilogues are I smiled the whole time. I would recommend this amazing book to anyone. It was an awesome read and reminds you that even on your darkest of days there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you Margaret for writing another truly amazing book!!!
I had to mentally prepare myself before I read this, I knew it was going to be gut wrenching and painful. I was right. I ugly cried through this book on more than one occasion. Margaret does such a wonderful job at expressing the characters emotions, it was impossible not to cry throughout the book. Your dealing with more than one real life issue in this book and both of those more often than not get swept under the rug and never discussed. I love how light could be brought to such dark topics.
Allyn was 20 and full of life, she had it all in front of her, a promising long future full of hope and happiness. Her promising life ended in the split of a second. Her youthful body and strawberry blonde hair made her prey for the predators. In an instant her life was taken, they took everything away from her. All that was left was a shell of a person. She wasn't living, only breathing and fearful of everything around her.
Dominic is a psychiatrist who handles difficult cases. Fate brings Dominic into Allyn's life. He and Allyn embark on a journey that may leave her broken forever, or he may just be the perfect medicine for her broken life.
This isn't a mushy, lovey dovey story. This is raw, real emotions that will break your heart, make you cry and leave you hoping that Allyn can find not only peace with what happened to her but peace within herself. I wanted to hug Allyn on more than one occasion, I wanted to high five Dominic several times, and as gruesome and graphic as the epilogues are I smiled the whole time. I would recommend this amazing book to anyone. It was an awesome read and reminds you that even on your darkest of days there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you Margaret for writing another truly amazing book!!!
May 10, 2014
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
I’ve read all of Ms. Margaret’s work, each book vary from different genre; from action-suspense, to contemporary, to M/M erotica and her latest work which had dark, contemporary. Her writing style is unique and in terms of story-telling she is one of the best that I’ve known very detailed and clear. One in common to all of her works is that the heroine is always tough and strong willed, never backed down to a challenge.
In her new book it is the story of a ruined and damaged lady Allyn, she was broken physically, emotionally and mentally, and her only escape from reality is the confinement of her home. But she became too tired of hiding and wants to overcome and face the demons of her past. She seeks the help of Dr. Dominic Shriver and everything changes…
I liked the story but maybe it is not for me, so I gave it a 3 star, here are some reasons why. 1) I felt the emotion is not enough to express the terror she experienced from her abductor. 2) I don’t feel the connection between the two main characters, there’s no spark just instant attraction. 3) I’m not a fan of Dominic, I expect more from his character cause he is the one helping Allyn. 4) And I felt something is missing from the story (or maybe it's just me (^o^))
I recommend this book who can handle to read a disturbing, deep and emotional story about life’s challenges and how to overcome it.
I’ve read all of Ms. Margaret’s work, each book vary from different genre; from action-suspense, to contemporary, to M/M erotica and her latest work which had dark, contemporary. Her writing style is unique and in terms of story-telling she is one of the best that I’ve known very detailed and clear. One in common to all of her works is that the heroine is always tough and strong willed, never backed down to a challenge.
In her new book it is the story of a ruined and damaged lady Allyn, she was broken physically, emotionally and mentally, and her only escape from reality is the confinement of her home. But she became too tired of hiding and wants to overcome and face the demons of her past. She seeks the help of Dr. Dominic Shriver and everything changes…
I liked the story but maybe it is not for me, so I gave it a 3 star, here are some reasons why. 1) I felt the emotion is not enough to express the terror she experienced from her abductor. 2) I don’t feel the connection between the two main characters, there’s no spark just instant attraction. 3) I’m not a fan of Dominic, I expect more from his character cause he is the one helping Allyn. 4) And I felt something is missing from the story (or maybe it's just me (^o^))
I recommend this book who can handle to read a disturbing, deep and emotional story about life’s challenges and how to overcome it.
February 17, 2015
After finishing this book I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to read it. I know I've read quite a lot of gripping reads lately but this is gripping with capital letters.
After a horrible attack Allyn is a prisoner in her own home. She's terrified of leaving her house. When she eventually reached out for help Dr. Shrivel changes her life in more ways than one.
Told in multiple points of view this is an emotional, dark and angsty story. I felt as if I was going through the pain with Allyn. If your looking for a gut wrenching emotional rollercoaster then I highly recommend this read. Absolutely loved it.
After a horrible attack Allyn is a prisoner in her own home. She's terrified of leaving her house. When she eventually reached out for help Dr. Shrivel changes her life in more ways than one.
Told in multiple points of view this is an emotional, dark and angsty story. I felt as if I was going through the pain with Allyn. If your looking for a gut wrenching emotional rollercoaster then I highly recommend this read. Absolutely loved it.
April 27, 2014
I was given an advanced copy of a life less broken........as I'm sitting here writing this review with my mouth wide open.........I'm speechless: I've never had a book that I connected to so deeply. For 2/3 of the books I found myself crying I could feel Allyn pain and then I felt her joy and I'm so happy she got her happy ending.... <3 <3 <3. A life less broken is a must read but it needs a warning label you will need tissue and your crying will be an ugly cry!!
May 5, 2014
Read and Reviewed for: Perusing Princesses Blog
Website: www.perusingprincesses.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/perusingprinc...
Twitter: @peruseprincess
A life of opportunities was given to me the day I was born, and those opportunities were taken from me the day they killed my will to fight. - Allyn Sommers
Firstly, I'm going to say that this book is no easy read. In-fact, the pre/prologue was downright horrific; those warnings given by the author are there for a reason, so I suggest you go in knowing that the subject matter is going to be dark, raw and disturbing. Although, as I say this, please know that this story in its full entirety is one that will stay with me for a while to come because it’s also one of the most empowering reads of 2014.
A horrific crime, a broken girl and a dedicated psychiatrist who finally opens the door to salvation leaves a deep, lingering peace with the reader, because love in its most truest of forms proves it has the power to conquer all.
*
The darkness, fear, self-deprecation, the nightmares of a crime so abhorrent that the colour is stripped from Allyn’s world; dark clouds and beige walls depicts what is left of a young woman's soul, one that carries deep scars and the burden of being the only surviving victim of an organised crime ring who subjects young women to the horrors of gang rape, knife play and murder.
Allyn cannot leave the house, her windows have bars and her panic alarm is always held tightly within her palm. One day, a televised interview of three females held captive for many years tell their story of their recuperation after finding freedom and integration back into society, their answer comes in the form of a name… Dr. Dominic Shriver.
Dominic is a psychiatrist and an expert in kidnap/victimisation/sexual crime. Dedicating his career into helping women overcome their fears, Allyn realises that after three-years of imprisoning herself in her home, that time has finally come to seek help.
And all it takes is one phone-call to change everything.
”My body is a walking keepsake, holding memories I can never get rid of. Scars that tell a story I’d rather forget.”
But Dominic doesn’t want her to forget, she never will fail to recall what happened to her that stormy day as she was taken from the clothing store; the problem is moving on and trying to find absolution and strength in pushing forward. Now, if only she will just answer the fucking door…
The only colour that Allyn has seen since the crime is that of the blue-jay that sits by her window, but Dominic is about to show her a new way and his methods work, his kind and supportive manner soon builds a trust that Allyn never thought she would have with anyone ever again but what comes next surprises them both when rehabilitation turns into growing mutual attraction.
“Dominic?”
“What is it?” I ask as I step on the front porch.
“You gave me the courage to open the door.”
Dominic is enamoured by her strength, her mind and her beauty. Her scars are only skin deep, but he can see the beautiful girl who lingers beneath.
“I don’t see scars. I see a beautiful, strong, courageous woman who’s lived through hell, and who’s choosing to fight back.’
The feeling is alien but liberating, and with it comes hope and the notion that second-chances may be possible, for them both…
*
Liberating, empowering and deeply compelling. A Life Less Broken tells a very honest and, at times, distressing tale of a young woman overcoming a devastating crime but who eventually finds hope in trust and freedom in love.
Told in alternating first person POV, Allyn and Dominic’s journey is emotional but beautiful nonetheless. The darker elements are disturbing but its deliverance is powerful and the writing, spectacular. You will have your moments of uncertainty in the early chapters but I advise you to stick with it because by the end, you will be happy that you did!
This is not erotica! This is a love-story told sympathetically, one that nurtures and grows into something undeniably beautiful, go in knowing that and it will give you the strength to ‘move forward,’ just like Allyn. <3
5 -CROWNS
READ IT!
Website: www.perusingprincesses.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/perusingprinc...
Twitter: @peruseprincess
A life of opportunities was given to me the day I was born, and those opportunities were taken from me the day they killed my will to fight. - Allyn Sommers
Firstly, I'm going to say that this book is no easy read. In-fact, the pre/prologue was downright horrific; those warnings given by the author are there for a reason, so I suggest you go in knowing that the subject matter is going to be dark, raw and disturbing. Although, as I say this, please know that this story in its full entirety is one that will stay with me for a while to come because it’s also one of the most empowering reads of 2014.
A horrific crime, a broken girl and a dedicated psychiatrist who finally opens the door to salvation leaves a deep, lingering peace with the reader, because love in its most truest of forms proves it has the power to conquer all.
*
The darkness, fear, self-deprecation, the nightmares of a crime so abhorrent that the colour is stripped from Allyn’s world; dark clouds and beige walls depicts what is left of a young woman's soul, one that carries deep scars and the burden of being the only surviving victim of an organised crime ring who subjects young women to the horrors of gang rape, knife play and murder.
Allyn cannot leave the house, her windows have bars and her panic alarm is always held tightly within her palm. One day, a televised interview of three females held captive for many years tell their story of their recuperation after finding freedom and integration back into society, their answer comes in the form of a name… Dr. Dominic Shriver.
Dominic is a psychiatrist and an expert in kidnap/victimisation/sexual crime. Dedicating his career into helping women overcome their fears, Allyn realises that after three-years of imprisoning herself in her home, that time has finally come to seek help.
And all it takes is one phone-call to change everything.
”My body is a walking keepsake, holding memories I can never get rid of. Scars that tell a story I’d rather forget.”
But Dominic doesn’t want her to forget, she never will fail to recall what happened to her that stormy day as she was taken from the clothing store; the problem is moving on and trying to find absolution and strength in pushing forward. Now, if only she will just answer the fucking door…
The only colour that Allyn has seen since the crime is that of the blue-jay that sits by her window, but Dominic is about to show her a new way and his methods work, his kind and supportive manner soon builds a trust that Allyn never thought she would have with anyone ever again but what comes next surprises them both when rehabilitation turns into growing mutual attraction.
“Dominic?”
“What is it?” I ask as I step on the front porch.
“You gave me the courage to open the door.”
Dominic is enamoured by her strength, her mind and her beauty. Her scars are only skin deep, but he can see the beautiful girl who lingers beneath.
“I don’t see scars. I see a beautiful, strong, courageous woman who’s lived through hell, and who’s choosing to fight back.’
The feeling is alien but liberating, and with it comes hope and the notion that second-chances may be possible, for them both…
*
Liberating, empowering and deeply compelling. A Life Less Broken tells a very honest and, at times, distressing tale of a young woman overcoming a devastating crime but who eventually finds hope in trust and freedom in love.
Told in alternating first person POV, Allyn and Dominic’s journey is emotional but beautiful nonetheless. The darker elements are disturbing but its deliverance is powerful and the writing, spectacular. You will have your moments of uncertainty in the early chapters but I advise you to stick with it because by the end, you will be happy that you did!
This is not erotica! This is a love-story told sympathetically, one that nurtures and grows into something undeniably beautiful, go in knowing that and it will give you the strength to ‘move forward,’ just like Allyn. <3
5 -CROWNS
READ IT!
June 4, 2015
This book is about learning to love yourself, and learning to love yourself again. There are some dark and twisty things in this book that may turn readers off, but the rest of the message outweighs the bad.
What do you do when your whole life changes in such a horrific way, you feel like you can’t even leave your house? Allyn was so brutalized, this was her reality. Trapped by the past demons, and unable to overcome them, until one day she turn on the television.
Dominic, the doctor she sees that day on the T.V., is almost too perfect! He is gentle, kind and never pushes her past what she can handle. He makes cheesy jokes and laughs at himself, making all the perfection more real.
But what happens when you fall for your doctor? Or your patient? This is one of the books that will make you truly feel what the characters feel, both for each other and for themselves. At times it was heartbreaking to “hear” the way Allyn spoke of herself, but with Dominic’s help, she is able to see just how amazing she is.
“Everything he’s done, he’s done for me. Without hesitation and without limits, he’s put his life on hold to help me.”
See, he is the perfect man!
“I’m much stronger than those puff balls want me to think I am. I’ve been to hell, not once, but twice and I’m still here.” ~ Devlynn, 4.5 stars
What do you do when your whole life changes in such a horrific way, you feel like you can’t even leave your house? Allyn was so brutalized, this was her reality. Trapped by the past demons, and unable to overcome them, until one day she turn on the television.
Dominic, the doctor she sees that day on the T.V., is almost too perfect! He is gentle, kind and never pushes her past what she can handle. He makes cheesy jokes and laughs at himself, making all the perfection more real.
But what happens when you fall for your doctor? Or your patient? This is one of the books that will make you truly feel what the characters feel, both for each other and for themselves. At times it was heartbreaking to “hear” the way Allyn spoke of herself, but with Dominic’s help, she is able to see just how amazing she is.
“Everything he’s done, he’s done for me. Without hesitation and without limits, he’s put his life on hold to help me.”
See, he is the perfect man!
“I’m much stronger than those puff balls want me to think I am. I’ve been to hell, not once, but twice and I’m still here.” ~ Devlynn, 4.5 stars
October 15, 2014
OMG I can’t even put into words how much I enjoyed this story. At times, it was a very difficult story to read. My heart broke every time Allyn remember that horrible night. But somehow she got her second chance at life and love. Each big step she took, I was jumping for joy. She was able to reclaim herself again and the clawed her way to her version of happiness. Dr. Shriver was also saved by falling in love with her. He proved in the end that love conquers all things even the love of family. The ending just blew me away. This was a wonderful story that takes you through the dark into the light. Make sure you have a box of tissues ready as you read this tory.
May 17, 2017
Once again huge praise to the author Margaret McHeyzer. Once you start reading you cannot put the book down - i finished this in one night because i wanted to find out what happens. You have no idea where the story is going.
The abuse this woman encountered will tear you up. The pain, suffering, hurt is unbelievable. The tenderness, healing and love is captivating. Dr Shivers is one in a million and you praise him all the way.
Do you see the shocking twist - no ways. Are you shocked oh yes
Brilliant story, brilliant read and a book that i don't think i will ever forget.
This is one author i will follow as all her books have been mind blowing
The abuse this woman encountered will tear you up. The pain, suffering, hurt is unbelievable. The tenderness, healing and love is captivating. Dr Shivers is one in a million and you praise him all the way.
Do you see the shocking twist - no ways. Are you shocked oh yes
Brilliant story, brilliant read and a book that i don't think i will ever forget.
This is one author i will follow as all her books have been mind blowing
April 29, 2014
All I can say is wow! I was very scared in the epilogue but couldn't put it down. It was such an emotional but beautiful journey and I cried both tears of joy and pain. This book was fabulous. It is definitely a must read.
August 5, 2017
Broken to fixed
This was a hard story to read. Beyond amazing the strength and spirit of this young girl and the horror she went through. I hope that you read this story and understand
This was a hard story to read. Beyond amazing the strength and spirit of this young girl and the horror she went through. I hope that you read this story and understand
June 22, 2015
✯✯5 Broken Stars!!✯✯
I can not believe I waited so long to read this book. I could kick myself! Once I picked up this book and read the prologue I was hooked. My heart broke for Allyn. Margaret gave such details to Allyn's rape and torture that I cried.
Allyn Sommers went to work like any other day. She was alone due to a virus spreading through the stores. She's waiting for her boss to show up and relieve her. All day she'd had a gut feeling that something was wrong. But, she just kept saying it was from the dark grey clouds. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case.
Allyn heads to the back to find a dress for the customers girlfriend. Next think Allyn knows she's being knocked out. When Allyn wakes up she can't see but she can hear men voices. They are beating her and raping her. Over and over. Three days later she wakes up and was left for dead.
Three years later and Allyn wishes she was dead. Since she got released from the hospital she has not left her house. Only her parents and therapist are allowed in. Allyn was left scarred, broken and both physically and emotionally damaged. There are no mirrors in her house. She has the best security system.
It doesn't matter how good the security system she has. Allyn can not get those voices out of her head. She closes her eyes and she can hear and feel everything those guys did to her. They were never caught. Allyn feels like she can never move on because she's afraid they'll comeback to finish the job they started.
One afternoon when the black started to take Allyn over, she turned on her TV. There was a talk show on. It had 3 girls who had been kidnapped, raped and held hostage for years. They'd been free for a few months and doing so well. The girls had been seeing Dr.Dominic Shriver and he'd done wonders to help them move forward with their lives.
Allyn was ready to try to start seeing colors. Not just black and beige. She made the call to Dominic. After 5 minutes on the phone with her he knew she needed saving. Dominic drove to Allyn's house and for days he spent sitting on her front porch talking to her through a closed door.
Allyn took a huge step to recovery. After talking/getting to know Dominic she wanted color in her life, to move on. She opened her front door. Which is a huge huge huge step for Allyn and the way she'd been living for the last three years.
Dominic always knew how to get Allyn to talk and open up. He'd never push her or expect a time frame for anything. He saw her for the beautiful woman she is. Little by little Allyn was opening up and healing. The longer and more time Dominic and Allyn spend together the closer they are getting. They are having feelings for each other. But, are trying to push them away being doctor/patient relationships are not allowed.
Of course they can't fight it. Allyn has finally fought some of her hard demons. Allyn has started leaving her house. Just when I thought things were going to be good. Two people show up. One from Dominic's past. And, one from Allyn's. How will they handle it. Can they move on? Will it break them permanently.
I literally read this in 1 day. I couldn't put it down. There were so many times I sat there and cried from what happened to Allyn. Her dreams or her anxiety attacks broke me. I remember working at a tanning salon always alone. And, what happened to Allyn was always one of my worst nightmares. I was always afraid what happened to her would happen to me, ESP because I was alone. Margaret made me feel everything Allyn went through. Then, she gave us the multiple epilogues and I loved them. While some people didn't like it. Me. I was glad that Dominic, Allyn and everyone else got the ending they deserved!!
I can not believe I waited so long to read this book. I could kick myself! Once I picked up this book and read the prologue I was hooked. My heart broke for Allyn. Margaret gave such details to Allyn's rape and torture that I cried.
Allyn Sommers went to work like any other day. She was alone due to a virus spreading through the stores. She's waiting for her boss to show up and relieve her. All day she'd had a gut feeling that something was wrong. But, she just kept saying it was from the dark grey clouds. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case.
Allyn heads to the back to find a dress for the customers girlfriend. Next think Allyn knows she's being knocked out. When Allyn wakes up she can't see but she can hear men voices. They are beating her and raping her. Over and over. Three days later she wakes up and was left for dead.
Three years later and Allyn wishes she was dead. Since she got released from the hospital she has not left her house. Only her parents and therapist are allowed in. Allyn was left scarred, broken and both physically and emotionally damaged. There are no mirrors in her house. She has the best security system.
It doesn't matter how good the security system she has. Allyn can not get those voices out of her head. She closes her eyes and she can hear and feel everything those guys did to her. They were never caught. Allyn feels like she can never move on because she's afraid they'll comeback to finish the job they started.
One afternoon when the black started to take Allyn over, she turned on her TV. There was a talk show on. It had 3 girls who had been kidnapped, raped and held hostage for years. They'd been free for a few months and doing so well. The girls had been seeing Dr.Dominic Shriver and he'd done wonders to help them move forward with their lives.
Allyn was ready to try to start seeing colors. Not just black and beige. She made the call to Dominic. After 5 minutes on the phone with her he knew she needed saving. Dominic drove to Allyn's house and for days he spent sitting on her front porch talking to her through a closed door.
Allyn took a huge step to recovery. After talking/getting to know Dominic she wanted color in her life, to move on. She opened her front door. Which is a huge huge huge step for Allyn and the way she'd been living for the last three years.
Dominic always knew how to get Allyn to talk and open up. He'd never push her or expect a time frame for anything. He saw her for the beautiful woman she is. Little by little Allyn was opening up and healing. The longer and more time Dominic and Allyn spend together the closer they are getting. They are having feelings for each other. But, are trying to push them away being doctor/patient relationships are not allowed.
Of course they can't fight it. Allyn has finally fought some of her hard demons. Allyn has started leaving her house. Just when I thought things were going to be good. Two people show up. One from Dominic's past. And, one from Allyn's. How will they handle it. Can they move on? Will it break them permanently.
I literally read this in 1 day. I couldn't put it down. There were so many times I sat there and cried from what happened to Allyn. Her dreams or her anxiety attacks broke me. I remember working at a tanning salon always alone. And, what happened to Allyn was always one of my worst nightmares. I was always afraid what happened to her would happen to me, ESP because I was alone. Margaret made me feel everything Allyn went through. Then, she gave us the multiple epilogues and I loved them. While some people didn't like it. Me. I was glad that Dominic, Allyn and everyone else got the ending they deserved!!
May 1, 2014
***** 5 GUT WRENCHING STARS *****
OMG – Margaret McHeyzer – I think you have tipped me over the edge. LOVED THIS STORY.
I cannot express how much this book captivated and mesmerized me with its extraordinary storyline of pain, suffering, hurt, trust, tenderness, healing and love.
From the Prologue it had me crying big fat tears for Allyn. In those first few pages I knew I was going to go on an emotional rollercoaster – and OMG it was so worth the ride.
This is not your typical romance book. It is filled with so much more. It really is gut wrenching at times as it is so real and raw. You will feel the emotions as you read this story. Your heart will break and it will smile.
It is written beautifully in the first person which helps you understand and feel what the characters are going through. The way Margaret conveys and expresses her characters emotions and feelings is beyond brilliant. It is so intense, vivid and clear. I felt everything they felt. I was right there with them.
Allyn is a young, energetic strawberry blonde who is attacked by predators who abuse, hurt and damage her beyond repair. Her life will never be the same. Will she ever be able to find freedom and happiness within herself?
Dominic is a psychiatrist who deals with challenging and difficult cases. He is strong, independent, has his own insecurities, but lives his life helping and putting others needs first. In my mind he is completely beautiful inside and out. So sincere, tender, caring, loving and the most handsome hero I think I have read to date.
It is almost like destiny is bringing them together. Allyn needs help and happens to watch a show where Dominic is mentioned. She takes the first step in trying to help herself after 3 long years of torture and calls his clinic. He agrees to see her.
The plot, twists and turns really came out and hit me head on. I really wasn’t expecting any of it. Exactly what I love in a book. Just didn’t see it coming. I was riveted by it.
The journey these two take together is absolutely brilliant and inspiring. I really don’t have enough words to describe how it made me feel. It is a long and hard road they endure, but Dominic is always there for Allyn. She becomes the light in his life. Will he be able to heal her and show her that life really is something to cherish.
It reaffirmed for me that even when you are down – no matter how black it is - there is always light at the end of the tunnel wishing and hoping to free you of whatever it is that troubles you. There will always come that time where you can be free and spread your wings.
I was ecstatically surprised when I read the epilogue. The fact that Margaret gave us all closure was perfect. I smiled from ear to ear as punishment was delivered in a shocking and horrific manner. As the saying goes – what goes around comes around. Karma – I believe it in.
There are so many quotes/scenes in the book that I wanted to add and share, but I don't want to give to much away, so will update this review after it's release date.
Margaret McHeyzer – I love your work.
One of the Best I’ve read this year.
Congratulations on A Life Less Broken – It really is Brilliant.
Advanced copy provided by the Author.
OMG – Margaret McHeyzer – I think you have tipped me over the edge. LOVED THIS STORY.
I cannot express how much this book captivated and mesmerized me with its extraordinary storyline of pain, suffering, hurt, trust, tenderness, healing and love.
From the Prologue it had me crying big fat tears for Allyn. In those first few pages I knew I was going to go on an emotional rollercoaster – and OMG it was so worth the ride.
This is not your typical romance book. It is filled with so much more. It really is gut wrenching at times as it is so real and raw. You will feel the emotions as you read this story. Your heart will break and it will smile.
It is written beautifully in the first person which helps you understand and feel what the characters are going through. The way Margaret conveys and expresses her characters emotions and feelings is beyond brilliant. It is so intense, vivid and clear. I felt everything they felt. I was right there with them.
Allyn is a young, energetic strawberry blonde who is attacked by predators who abuse, hurt and damage her beyond repair. Her life will never be the same. Will she ever be able to find freedom and happiness within herself?
Dominic is a psychiatrist who deals with challenging and difficult cases. He is strong, independent, has his own insecurities, but lives his life helping and putting others needs first. In my mind he is completely beautiful inside and out. So sincere, tender, caring, loving and the most handsome hero I think I have read to date.
It is almost like destiny is bringing them together. Allyn needs help and happens to watch a show where Dominic is mentioned. She takes the first step in trying to help herself after 3 long years of torture and calls his clinic. He agrees to see her.
The plot, twists and turns really came out and hit me head on. I really wasn’t expecting any of it. Exactly what I love in a book. Just didn’t see it coming. I was riveted by it.
The journey these two take together is absolutely brilliant and inspiring. I really don’t have enough words to describe how it made me feel. It is a long and hard road they endure, but Dominic is always there for Allyn. She becomes the light in his life. Will he be able to heal her and show her that life really is something to cherish.
It reaffirmed for me that even when you are down – no matter how black it is - there is always light at the end of the tunnel wishing and hoping to free you of whatever it is that troubles you. There will always come that time where you can be free and spread your wings.
I was ecstatically surprised when I read the epilogue. The fact that Margaret gave us all closure was perfect. I smiled from ear to ear as punishment was delivered in a shocking and horrific manner. As the saying goes – what goes around comes around. Karma – I believe it in.
There are so many quotes/scenes in the book that I wanted to add and share, but I don't want to give to much away, so will update this review after it's release date.
Margaret McHeyzer – I love your work.
One of the Best I’ve read this year.
Congratulations on A Life Less Broken – It really is Brilliant.
Advanced copy provided by the Author.
May 6, 2014
This story is about a girl named Allyn who has been through something so horrible that she has been come a shut in. She hasn’t been outside her home for 3 years. The only people she lets in are her parents and her therapist. Her parents bring her any groceries she needs and she can order anything else off the internet. She went to work one day like any other day. She had an off feeling all day. Little did she know that her whole life was going to change that day. Days later she was found at a pond by a couple out on a nice day. She was repeatedly raped and mutilated. She has bite marks and knife scares all over her body. Now she never leaves her house for fear they will find her again. One day after another unsuccessful therapy session she decides to watch some tv. She winds up watching a show where they are interviewing 3 girls who were taken and held for years. It was only 4 months after they got away and they were on this show talking about it. It was 3 years later and Allyn couldn’t even open the door to her house. She decided to call the therapist that they mentioned helped the girls on the show. He began seeing her the next day. His name is Dominic. She doesn’t even let him in the first few days they just talk through the screen door. He helps her more in a few days then her other therapist did in years. Soon she opens the door for him and she is overcoming her fears. The more fears she overcomes the more Dominic falls for her. He knows its wrong cause she is his patient but you can’t help who you fall in love with. He never sees the scares just how beautiful she is on the inside and how strong she is. He gets her to open the door to her house and leave it open. He gets her to go outside. She has feeling for him but isn’t sure if he feels the same way. She gets sick after going outside one day in the rain to rant at the sky. He comes and takes care of her and stays over night. He takes her to the place where she was found. She rants again while there. Every time she overcomes more of her past he feels even more in love with her. Can they have a real relationship? Can she ever be completely over what was done to her? Will they people who did it to her ever be caught and punished? Can Dom love her enough to pull her all the way through and help her learn to love again?
I love this story. What she went through was horrendous. No one should ever have to go through that. I must honestly say that I don’t know if I went through something like that if I would rather have died at the pond or survived. Its amazing how much he helps her by just talking to her rather than trying to get her to just do things like her other therapist. He is so nice to her right away and doesn’t treat her differently. I kept routing for her through out the book every time she over came something. The book was an emotional rollercoaster which is my favorite kind of book. I love books that make you feel and you become invested in the outcome of the characters as if they are real people that you know if real life. The book was very well written. I will be looking for other reads by this author.
I was given this book as a gift in return for an honest review.
I love this story. What she went through was horrendous. No one should ever have to go through that. I must honestly say that I don’t know if I went through something like that if I would rather have died at the pond or survived. Its amazing how much he helps her by just talking to her rather than trying to get her to just do things like her other therapist. He is so nice to her right away and doesn’t treat her differently. I kept routing for her through out the book every time she over came something. The book was an emotional rollercoaster which is my favorite kind of book. I love books that make you feel and you become invested in the outcome of the characters as if they are real people that you know if real life. The book was very well written. I will be looking for other reads by this author.
I was given this book as a gift in return for an honest review.
May 10, 2014
I received this book as an ARC from the author, for my pure reading joy. This review will not contain spoilers, you need to read it yourself to see the beauty of the story.
This book is not a kind, fluffy, feel good, sappy read - at least in the first 50 pages. Is a gripping, grab your seat, emotional, raw, gritty prelogue and prologue. It contains "distressing" content that may be offensive to some readers. With that said here are my words.
I loved this book. I cried, ugly tears. It was an emotional roller coaster that kept me reading until I was forced to put it down. Written beautifully in the first person, the reader actually feels the experiences that Allyn feels. Being drawn into her character you feel her pain and anguish.
Now to the story - Allyn is a normal young woman who lives a simple life. She works at a clothing store and enjoys life full of color and carefree. That all ends one day, in a horrific crime that leaves her all but dead. Amazingly she survives, only to live in emotional hell. She can't leave her house, accept any sort of human contact except her doctor and her parents. Cuts off all interaction to the human world outside of her door. She is in self induced prison. Her whole world is bland, boring, beige... One day she sees a doctor on TV that she thinks could help her more than her doctor for 3 years. She calls desperately trying to get an appointment with him to come to her house. He finally agrees. That's when she sees a blue-jay outside her window... it gives her hope. She is looking forward to meeting with the new doctor and adding some color back into her life.
Enter - handsome Dr. Dominic Shriver. psychologist extraordinaire. He meets with Allyn on her terms. Pushes her to limits only she can overcome. While watching her breakdown the barriers around her, he falls for her. Overcoming his own bad deal with life, he accepts her faults and all. Together they bring color back into her life.
There is angst and set backs for Allyn. She has hard days, but after what she went through, the reader can understand. It's such a beautiful story. Written perfectly to keep the reader engaged.
The ending for me was the coup de grace - I loved that Ms. McHeyzer gave you all of the endings the HEA and the punishments that fit the crimes.
I can't wait to see what she has to offer next. This is a MUST to put on your TBR list. Enjoy A Life Less Broken
This book is not a kind, fluffy, feel good, sappy read - at least in the first 50 pages. Is a gripping, grab your seat, emotional, raw, gritty prelogue and prologue. It contains "distressing" content that may be offensive to some readers. With that said here are my words.
I loved this book. I cried, ugly tears. It was an emotional roller coaster that kept me reading until I was forced to put it down. Written beautifully in the first person, the reader actually feels the experiences that Allyn feels. Being drawn into her character you feel her pain and anguish.
Now to the story - Allyn is a normal young woman who lives a simple life. She works at a clothing store and enjoys life full of color and carefree. That all ends one day, in a horrific crime that leaves her all but dead. Amazingly she survives, only to live in emotional hell. She can't leave her house, accept any sort of human contact except her doctor and her parents. Cuts off all interaction to the human world outside of her door. She is in self induced prison. Her whole world is bland, boring, beige... One day she sees a doctor on TV that she thinks could help her more than her doctor for 3 years. She calls desperately trying to get an appointment with him to come to her house. He finally agrees. That's when she sees a blue-jay outside her window... it gives her hope. She is looking forward to meeting with the new doctor and adding some color back into her life.
Enter - handsome Dr. Dominic Shriver. psychologist extraordinaire. He meets with Allyn on her terms. Pushes her to limits only she can overcome. While watching her breakdown the barriers around her, he falls for her. Overcoming his own bad deal with life, he accepts her faults and all. Together they bring color back into her life.
There is angst and set backs for Allyn. She has hard days, but after what she went through, the reader can understand. It's such a beautiful story. Written perfectly to keep the reader engaged.
The ending for me was the coup de grace - I loved that Ms. McHeyzer gave you all of the endings the HEA and the punishments that fit the crimes.
I can't wait to see what she has to offer next. This is a MUST to put on your TBR list. Enjoy A Life Less Broken
May 12, 2014
**Warning- this book is not for everyone. There are graphic and gory details associated with rape in the book and mentioned in my review. Please do not read this review if such topics are ones that you cannot read about.**
Wow. What a ride.
This is a book about healing. Not in the heartbreak kind of way or even in the broken bone sort of way. This is a book about healing when there is nothing but brokenness inside of you.
How do you overcome something that not only changed your life but changed you, physically and mentally, forever? How do you overcome the pain, fear, and shame that was forced on you by others? How do you live again when you have no idea why you're still living to begin with?
Allyn was raped. She wasn't just raped by one man, she was raped by 3. She wasn't just raped. She was mutilated. Part of her ear was bit off, her nipple sliced off, numerous bite marks all over her body, her eye was damaged to the point where she can't see correctly out of it, and she's no longer able to conceive. That is just a summary of the hell that she had to endure.
She survived, yet she has no idea why or how.
Now, locked in her house day in and day out, she is trying to heal.
Dr. Dominic Shriver is a psychiatrist who specializes in patients who have experienced life-altering traumas. Allyn calls his office one day, needing something more than she's getting from the doctor she has been seeing.
What she didn't know when she called him, however, is that she was already starting the process that would save her.
Allyn and Dominic's story isn't an easy one. Allyn is broken - as can be expected. While she wants to heal, the scars and the voices in her make that hard.
Through patience, caring, understanding, and ultimately, love, Dominic is able to help her heal.
This book was great. It was an emotional roller coaster from start to finish. 75% in you will have the biggest "Oh my God" moment ever, that I promise you. Something so unexpected happens but in a way that makes total sense.
There are 4 epilogue's in this book. Once you read it, you'll understand why. I'd like to thank the author for the first three - they were very much needed and appreciated!
This one is a hard book to recommend because I know there are many out there who cannot read books that include rape. However, if you're able to, please read it. You will finish that last word with tears in your eyes yet your heart will feel full.
I give this one 4 starts and commend Margaret McHeyzer on writing such a touching story.
Wow. What a ride.
This is a book about healing. Not in the heartbreak kind of way or even in the broken bone sort of way. This is a book about healing when there is nothing but brokenness inside of you.
How do you overcome something that not only changed your life but changed you, physically and mentally, forever? How do you overcome the pain, fear, and shame that was forced on you by others? How do you live again when you have no idea why you're still living to begin with?
Allyn was raped. She wasn't just raped by one man, she was raped by 3. She wasn't just raped. She was mutilated. Part of her ear was bit off, her nipple sliced off, numerous bite marks all over her body, her eye was damaged to the point where she can't see correctly out of it, and she's no longer able to conceive. That is just a summary of the hell that she had to endure.
She survived, yet she has no idea why or how.
Now, locked in her house day in and day out, she is trying to heal.
Dr. Dominic Shriver is a psychiatrist who specializes in patients who have experienced life-altering traumas. Allyn calls his office one day, needing something more than she's getting from the doctor she has been seeing.
What she didn't know when she called him, however, is that she was already starting the process that would save her.
Allyn and Dominic's story isn't an easy one. Allyn is broken - as can be expected. While she wants to heal, the scars and the voices in her make that hard.
Through patience, caring, understanding, and ultimately, love, Dominic is able to help her heal.
This book was great. It was an emotional roller coaster from start to finish. 75% in you will have the biggest "Oh my God" moment ever, that I promise you. Something so unexpected happens but in a way that makes total sense.
There are 4 epilogue's in this book. Once you read it, you'll understand why. I'd like to thank the author for the first three - they were very much needed and appreciated!
This one is a hard book to recommend because I know there are many out there who cannot read books that include rape. However, if you're able to, please read it. You will finish that last word with tears in your eyes yet your heart will feel full.
I give this one 4 starts and commend Margaret McHeyzer on writing such a touching story.
February 18, 2015
***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review!***
This book was phenomenal. It was gut wrenching and beautiful. This is a very dark read about a woman who is trying to make it through the day while dealing with overwhelming anxiety and depression. As the victim of a horrific crime, Allyn exists in a world of pain, nightmares and heartache. She doesn't live life, instead she is trapped inside her house, too scared to venture back out into the world. One day she sees a psychologist online and contacts him as a last resort. She wants to get better, she just doesn't know how. Dr. Dominic Shriver takes a special interest in this broken woman. He can see a spark of light inside of her, he just has to figure out how to get her to see it.
While this was a book that deals with some taboo issues, a relationship between therapist and patient, it truly was an amazing journey of faith and healing. Of finding strength in weaknesses. Of believing in the power of overcoming the worst that humanity has to offer and still becoming the person you were always meant to be. While I wouldn't normally condone this type of relationship because of the inherent ethical issues, but this story blew me away. There were a lot of moments that you felt like screaming and pulling your hair out because of what the heroine had to go through, and then there were the moments when you smiled as she slowly began to pull herself back together piece by piece. Dominic Shriver was the key to that healing. While Allyn did all the work, it was through the love, support and encouragement of Dominic that she was able to take her life back.
There were a lot of twists and turns in this book. A lot of ups and downs, and some surprises that you never saw coming. This is a feel good book, but only in the sense that Allyn is able to find a way to heal. This isn't a book that will make you laugh, but rather make you cry. Make you question the evil that is present in our world. Make you wonder how people are able to remain positive and loving after having gone through the worst of the worst.
I really enjoyed the epilogue for this book. I thought it was a perfect way to end the story. While there were some editing issues, mainly in the overall formating of the book versus typos, I absolutely recommend this book. The characters were extremely well written, and the story line well thought out. This story is a powerful one that is sure to touch your heart.
This book was phenomenal. It was gut wrenching and beautiful. This is a very dark read about a woman who is trying to make it through the day while dealing with overwhelming anxiety and depression. As the victim of a horrific crime, Allyn exists in a world of pain, nightmares and heartache. She doesn't live life, instead she is trapped inside her house, too scared to venture back out into the world. One day she sees a psychologist online and contacts him as a last resort. She wants to get better, she just doesn't know how. Dr. Dominic Shriver takes a special interest in this broken woman. He can see a spark of light inside of her, he just has to figure out how to get her to see it.
While this was a book that deals with some taboo issues, a relationship between therapist and patient, it truly was an amazing journey of faith and healing. Of finding strength in weaknesses. Of believing in the power of overcoming the worst that humanity has to offer and still becoming the person you were always meant to be. While I wouldn't normally condone this type of relationship because of the inherent ethical issues, but this story blew me away. There were a lot of moments that you felt like screaming and pulling your hair out because of what the heroine had to go through, and then there were the moments when you smiled as she slowly began to pull herself back together piece by piece. Dominic Shriver was the key to that healing. While Allyn did all the work, it was through the love, support and encouragement of Dominic that she was able to take her life back.
There were a lot of twists and turns in this book. A lot of ups and downs, and some surprises that you never saw coming. This is a feel good book, but only in the sense that Allyn is able to find a way to heal. This isn't a book that will make you laugh, but rather make you cry. Make you question the evil that is present in our world. Make you wonder how people are able to remain positive and loving after having gone through the worst of the worst.
I really enjoyed the epilogue for this book. I thought it was a perfect way to end the story. While there were some editing issues, mainly in the overall formating of the book versus typos, I absolutely recommend this book. The characters were extremely well written, and the story line well thought out. This story is a powerful one that is sure to touch your heart.
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