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The Things We Break
It is said that we are connected by a red thread to the one we are destined to be with. That thread may get tangled and stretched, but it will never break. However, for Evan and Tristan, the strength of their thread will be tested.
Evan Carter fell in love with the beautiful Tristan Anderson after the first time Tristan kissed her in the eighth grade. Tristan was Evan’s first in everything, including seeing the destruction an alcoholic father could cause. At eighteen, they planned to run away and leave their small town behind. Evan would go to college, and Tristan would be free of his abusive father. But one night changes everything, and Tristan becomes the first boy to break Evan’s heart.
Twelve years later, Evan has a great boyfriend, a career she loves, and supportive friends. She thinks she’s over the broken boy who crushed her heart in high school. Until one night Tristan walks back into her life, and all the feelings she thought she had packed away come racing back. Tristan is no longer the broken boy she once knew but a man with a different life. A life he wants to prove to her is better. That he is better.
However, fate is not done with the two young lovers, and the strength of their thread is tested once again when tragedy and truth threaten to tear them apart—this time for good.
Evan Carter fell in love with the beautiful Tristan Anderson after the first time Tristan kissed her in the eighth grade. Tristan was Evan’s first in everything, including seeing the destruction an alcoholic father could cause. At eighteen, they planned to run away and leave their small town behind. Evan would go to college, and Tristan would be free of his abusive father. But one night changes everything, and Tristan becomes the first boy to break Evan’s heart.
Twelve years later, Evan has a great boyfriend, a career she loves, and supportive friends. She thinks she’s over the broken boy who crushed her heart in high school. Until one night Tristan walks back into her life, and all the feelings she thought she had packed away come racing back. Tristan is no longer the broken boy she once knew but a man with a different life. A life he wants to prove to her is better. That he is better.
However, fate is not done with the two young lovers, and the strength of their thread is tested once again when tragedy and truth threaten to tear them apart—this time for good.
- GenresRomance
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
25 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Naatz
5 books40 followersOriginally from a small town in northern Minnesota Melissa now splits her time between the bright lights of Las Vegas Nevada and the Central Coast of California. Before she gave it all up to chase this crazy publication career she worked as a paralegal and a victim advocate.
Melissa is the author of three books. One Summer Knight, The Things We Break and The Forgotten Life of Ella Moon.
Melissa is the author of three books. One Summer Knight, The Things We Break and The Forgotten Life of Ella Moon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 14, 2024
4.75 stars!!!!!
i requested this arc bc it said it’s an emotional second chance romance (we all know i love those) so i knew what i was getting into & yet it STILL punched me in the gut 😩
this romance is real and raw and it’s a little rough on your emotions. (think: binding 13 but not quite that level). there was soooo much growth but also so many things would go wrong & melissa did an incredible job capturing those feelings. the romance is full of aching & pining !!!! the way they perfectly fit together but also 😭😭 i can’t!!
i’m all about a misunderstood bad boy and tristan is perfect!! perfect perfect perfect! he has been through it but he’s still this amazing man !!!! evan is absolutely iconic. i cannot explain the amount of moments where she made my jaw drop. this woman is my hero. she just grew so much the whole book and honestly became the person who was unafraid to stand up for what she believes other people deserve
i will absolutely be reading melissa’s other book & any other books she writes!!
thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC! #thethingswebreak #thenerdfam this is my honest review.
i requested this arc bc it said it’s an emotional second chance romance (we all know i love those) so i knew what i was getting into & yet it STILL punched me in the gut 😩
this romance is real and raw and it’s a little rough on your emotions. (think: binding 13 but not quite that level). there was soooo much growth but also so many things would go wrong & melissa did an incredible job capturing those feelings. the romance is full of aching & pining !!!! the way they perfectly fit together but also 😭😭 i can’t!!
i’m all about a misunderstood bad boy and tristan is perfect!! perfect perfect perfect! he has been through it but he’s still this amazing man !!!! evan is absolutely iconic. i cannot explain the amount of moments where she made my jaw drop. this woman is my hero. she just grew so much the whole book and honestly became the person who was unafraid to stand up for what she believes other people deserve
i will absolutely be reading melissa’s other book & any other books she writes!!
thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC! #thethingswebreak #thenerdfam this is my honest review.
October 2, 2024
I loved this book…until the ending. I hate Tristan. Evan deserved so much more! But I think I still loved this book because I have strong feelings about the end! It’s so deep and emotional and I connected with the characters so much…until the endddddd!!!! Whaaaatttt!??? You should absolutely read this. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
The book is so well written, the rating is for the fact that I’m annoyed with the direction the story went…which was too real and lifelike and not fair or fun so I’m just a little salty!
The book is so well written, the rating is for the fact that I’m annoyed with the direction the story went…which was too real and lifelike and not fair or fun so I’m just a little salty!
October 16, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Melissa Naatz's The Things We Break is a heartfelt and touching story about first love, broken hearts, and second chances. Evan and Tristan's story will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings. This was my first book by this author, and it will certainly not be my last.
It's a roller coaster of emotions, from high school sweethearts to challenging adults. I found myself in tears several times as I read of their suffering and healing.
The author did an excellent job writing all of the different aspects of the characters in the story. This book discusses so many difficult topics, yet the author does so in such a captivating way. The characters were relatable, and you couldn't help but feel empathy for what they had gone through.
What to Expect:
👫 Childhood Friends
👩❤️💋👨 Friends to Lovers
💞 Second Chance
♾️ Soulmates
👥 Coming of Age
💖 First Love
🏡 Found Family
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC.
Melissa Naatz's The Things We Break is a heartfelt and touching story about first love, broken hearts, and second chances. Evan and Tristan's story will undoubtedly tug at your heartstrings. This was my first book by this author, and it will certainly not be my last.
It's a roller coaster of emotions, from high school sweethearts to challenging adults. I found myself in tears several times as I read of their suffering and healing.
The author did an excellent job writing all of the different aspects of the characters in the story. This book discusses so many difficult topics, yet the author does so in such a captivating way. The characters were relatable, and you couldn't help but feel empathy for what they had gone through.
What to Expect:
👫 Childhood Friends
👩❤️💋👨 Friends to Lovers
💞 Second Chance
♾️ Soulmates
👥 Coming of Age
💖 First Love
🏡 Found Family
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC.
October 20, 2024
Is it wrong person and right time or right person and wrong time? Either way, it was a heart breaking story or first love, second chances and that inexplainable pull towards another.
This book made me feel so many things - heart break for the back and forth and toxic nature of Ev and Tristan’s relationship, frustration with Ev for not seeing the perfect man right in front of her, understanding that love is messy and who’s to judge what’s best for someone else, and desperation for a happy ending because don’t we all deserve that?
This reminds me so much of A Love Letter to Whiskey but even less of a conclusion and I find myself wanting that landing in the end but we really never get it. I want to know she made the right decision, that they finally find each other at the right time and have the conversations and the patience to put in the work but we don’t see that on page and I need more.
So do I recommend it? Yes - as long as you’re okay with lots of back and forth, uncertainty and an open ended conclusion!
This book made me feel so many things - heart break for the back and forth and toxic nature of Ev and Tristan’s relationship, frustration with Ev for not seeing the perfect man right in front of her, understanding that love is messy and who’s to judge what’s best for someone else, and desperation for a happy ending because don’t we all deserve that?
This reminds me so much of A Love Letter to Whiskey but even less of a conclusion and I find myself wanting that landing in the end but we really never get it. I want to know she made the right decision, that they finally find each other at the right time and have the conversations and the patience to put in the work but we don’t see that on page and I need more.
So do I recommend it? Yes - as long as you’re okay with lots of back and forth, uncertainty and an open ended conclusion!
October 13, 2024
Recensie: The Things We Break - Melissa Naatz
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Overall
Personages: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Verhaallijn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Einde: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Tempo: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Schrijfstijl: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Er zijn een paar intieme scènes, maar deze zijn niet te gedetailleerd en worden netjes beschreven.
Trigger waarschuwingen: 💀💀💀
- Gedetailleerde beschrijvingen van kinderverwaarlozing
- Kinder- en drugs/alcoholmisbruik
- Alcoholconsumptie
- Vloeken
- Fysiek geweld in een huwelijk
- Seksisme/misogynie
Emotionele impact:
Vooral in het tweede deel van het verhaal had ik een brok in mijn keel en moest ik regelmatig een traantje wegpinken.
Favoriete karakters: Evan, Tristan, Graig en Callie
Tropes:
- Found family
- Second chance romance
- Mental health awareness
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Het verhaal speelt zich af in het kleine dorpje Parkfield en begint met de jonge Evan en Tristan. Hun moeilijke jeugd wordt op hartverscheurende wijze verteld, tot het punt dat hun wegen zich scheiden. Vervolgens maken we een sprong van 12 jaar. De vraag blijft of ze, na alles wat er is gebeurd, hun weg terug naar elkaar kunnen vinden.
De snelheid van het verhaal is hoog, met meerdere tijdsprongen, wat het boek lekker snel laat lezen. De schrijfstijl is in de derde persoon en leest prettig. Het einde geeft closure, maar laat ook ruimte voor eigen interpretatie.
Dit was een super emotionele leeservaring. Door de manier van schrijven zat ik helemaal in het verhaal, alsof ik naar het tragische verhaal van twee goede vrienden luisterde. Het heeft me echt aan het denken gezet en ik vond hey mooi om te lezen ovet de groei die de karakters doormaken
Ik ga zeker ook het andere boek van deze schrijfster lezen!
Bedankt aan The Nerd Fam voor het ontvangen van deze ARC.
---
Review: The Things We Break - Melissa Naatz
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Overall
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ending: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Pacing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Spice: 🌶🌶
There are a few intimate scenes, but they’re not overly detailed and are written tastefully.
Trigger Warnings: 💀💀💀
- Detailed depictions of child neglect
- Child abuse and substance/alcohol abuse
- Alcohol consumption
- Swearing
- Physical altercation in a married relationship
- Misogyny
Emotional Impact:
Especially in the second half, I often had a lump in my throat and had to wipe away some tears.
Favorite characters: Evan, Tristan, Graig, and Callie
Tropes:
- Found family
- Second chance romance
- Mental health awareness
Genre: Contemporary Romance
The story is set in the small town of Parkfield, where we meet young Evan and Tristan. We follow their difficult childhood until their paths diverge, and the story jumps forward 12 years. The central question is whether, after everything they've been through, they can find their way back to each other.
The pacing is fast, with several time jumps, making the book a quick read. The third-person narration is well-written and engaging. The ending leaves room for interpretation but still offers closure.
This was a deeply emotional reading experience. The writing style completely drew me in, and it felt more like I was hearing the tragic story of two good friends than reading a novel. It really made me reflect, and I felt fulfilled by the characters’ growth.
I’ll definitely be picking up the author's next book!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Overall
Personages: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Verhaallijn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Einde: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Tempo: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Schrijfstijl: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Er zijn een paar intieme scènes, maar deze zijn niet te gedetailleerd en worden netjes beschreven.
Trigger waarschuwingen: 💀💀💀
- Gedetailleerde beschrijvingen van kinderverwaarlozing
- Kinder- en drugs/alcoholmisbruik
- Alcoholconsumptie
- Vloeken
- Fysiek geweld in een huwelijk
- Seksisme/misogynie
Emotionele impact:
Vooral in het tweede deel van het verhaal had ik een brok in mijn keel en moest ik regelmatig een traantje wegpinken.
Favoriete karakters: Evan, Tristan, Graig en Callie
Tropes:
- Found family
- Second chance romance
- Mental health awareness
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Het verhaal speelt zich af in het kleine dorpje Parkfield en begint met de jonge Evan en Tristan. Hun moeilijke jeugd wordt op hartverscheurende wijze verteld, tot het punt dat hun wegen zich scheiden. Vervolgens maken we een sprong van 12 jaar. De vraag blijft of ze, na alles wat er is gebeurd, hun weg terug naar elkaar kunnen vinden.
De snelheid van het verhaal is hoog, met meerdere tijdsprongen, wat het boek lekker snel laat lezen. De schrijfstijl is in de derde persoon en leest prettig. Het einde geeft closure, maar laat ook ruimte voor eigen interpretatie.
Dit was een super emotionele leeservaring. Door de manier van schrijven zat ik helemaal in het verhaal, alsof ik naar het tragische verhaal van twee goede vrienden luisterde. Het heeft me echt aan het denken gezet en ik vond hey mooi om te lezen ovet de groei die de karakters doormaken
Ik ga zeker ook het andere boek van deze schrijfster lezen!
Bedankt aan The Nerd Fam voor het ontvangen van deze ARC.
---
Review: The Things We Break - Melissa Naatz
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Overall
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ending: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Pacing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Spice: 🌶🌶
There are a few intimate scenes, but they’re not overly detailed and are written tastefully.
Trigger Warnings: 💀💀💀
- Detailed depictions of child neglect
- Child abuse and substance/alcohol abuse
- Alcohol consumption
- Swearing
- Physical altercation in a married relationship
- Misogyny
Emotional Impact:
Especially in the second half, I often had a lump in my throat and had to wipe away some tears.
Favorite characters: Evan, Tristan, Graig, and Callie
Tropes:
- Found family
- Second chance romance
- Mental health awareness
Genre: Contemporary Romance
The story is set in the small town of Parkfield, where we meet young Evan and Tristan. We follow their difficult childhood until their paths diverge, and the story jumps forward 12 years. The central question is whether, after everything they've been through, they can find their way back to each other.
The pacing is fast, with several time jumps, making the book a quick read. The third-person narration is well-written and engaging. The ending leaves room for interpretation but still offers closure.
This was a deeply emotional reading experience. The writing style completely drew me in, and it felt more like I was hearing the tragic story of two good friends than reading a novel. It really made me reflect, and I felt fulfilled by the characters’ growth.
I’ll definitely be picking up the author's next book!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC.
October 4, 2024
ARC review (thank you so much The Nerd Fam and Melissa Naatz):
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book hit me right in the heart. As someone with a traumatic upbringing, I found myself deeply resonating with Evan and Tristan’s story. Their journey through love, heartbreak, and the messy realities of life felt so familiar, like the author really understood what it’s like to navigate the complexities of a painful past.
Evan and Tristan fell in love as kids, their bond forged in the innocence of youth but tested by the harshness of their circumstances. Tristan’s struggles with his abusive father and Evan’s experience of that pain were portrayed with such sensitivity and authenticity. I felt seen in a way that I rarely do with fiction, and the way the author addresses heavy themes like abuse and mental health is commendable.
When they plan to escape their small town and Tristan’s difficult home life, everything changes in an instant, leading to a heartbreak that resonates deeply. Fast forward twelve years, and their lives have taken different paths, but when Tristan reenters Evan’s life, all those old feelings come rushing back. The weight of their pasts looms large, and I couldn’t help but feel the tension and hope wrapped up in that moment. It reminded me that healing is never a straight line and that love can be both beautiful and complicated.
Evan and Tristan’s connection felt real and raw; I could feel their chemistry leap off the page. I experienced every ache and joy alongside them. Their love story is far from perfect, and that’s what made it relatable and compelling. I was invested in their journey, feeling every twist and turn as they fought for happiness against all odds.
This isn’t a typical romance; it’s a profound exploration of love’s complexities and the scars we carry. If you’re looking for a book that challenges you and resonates on a deeper level, this is it. I can’t recommend it enough. I’m excited to see what this author creates next, as they’ve truly captured something special and meaningful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book hit me right in the heart. As someone with a traumatic upbringing, I found myself deeply resonating with Evan and Tristan’s story. Their journey through love, heartbreak, and the messy realities of life felt so familiar, like the author really understood what it’s like to navigate the complexities of a painful past.
Evan and Tristan fell in love as kids, their bond forged in the innocence of youth but tested by the harshness of their circumstances. Tristan’s struggles with his abusive father and Evan’s experience of that pain were portrayed with such sensitivity and authenticity. I felt seen in a way that I rarely do with fiction, and the way the author addresses heavy themes like abuse and mental health is commendable.
When they plan to escape their small town and Tristan’s difficult home life, everything changes in an instant, leading to a heartbreak that resonates deeply. Fast forward twelve years, and their lives have taken different paths, but when Tristan reenters Evan’s life, all those old feelings come rushing back. The weight of their pasts looms large, and I couldn’t help but feel the tension and hope wrapped up in that moment. It reminded me that healing is never a straight line and that love can be both beautiful and complicated.
Evan and Tristan’s connection felt real and raw; I could feel their chemistry leap off the page. I experienced every ache and joy alongside them. Their love story is far from perfect, and that’s what made it relatable and compelling. I was invested in their journey, feeling every twist and turn as they fought for happiness against all odds.
This isn’t a typical romance; it’s a profound exploration of love’s complexities and the scars we carry. If you’re looking for a book that challenges you and resonates on a deeper level, this is it. I can’t recommend it enough. I’m excited to see what this author creates next, as they’ve truly captured something special and meaningful.
October 5, 2024
Oh my heart. ❤️🩹
Short Synopsis:
Evan and Tristan. Tristan and Evan. The two fell in love at 13 and have been connected ever since. They plan to leave their small Minnesota town together for Evan to go to college and Tristan to get away from his toxic and abusive family. But Tristen stays. And breaks Evan’s heart. Until one night 12 years later…
My Thoughts:
I could not stop thinking about this book and stayed up way too late to read it because I couldn’t stop.
I adored it.
It’s not going to be a book for everyone. It’s messy. And covers hard topics. (NOT A ROMCOM!) But the emotions and yearning and the honest and raw portrayal of Tristan’s and Evan’s love story felt so real. It was heartbreaking and beautiful. And such a roller coaster. Every time the timeline jumped ahead - my heart hurt. But it was very realistic and honest in the timeline approach.
What You’ll Find:
❤️🩹Childhood lovers
❤️🩹Second chance romance
❤️🩹Healing journey
❤️🩹Emotional romance
❤️🩹Tattoos and piercings
❤️🩹Small town
❤️🩹Found family
Trigger warnings: This book is a walking trigger warning. It’s heavy and has a lot of triggers. So please check those and your mental health before reading.
Short Synopsis:
Evan and Tristan. Tristan and Evan. The two fell in love at 13 and have been connected ever since. They plan to leave their small Minnesota town together for Evan to go to college and Tristan to get away from his toxic and abusive family. But Tristen stays. And breaks Evan’s heart. Until one night 12 years later…
My Thoughts:
I could not stop thinking about this book and stayed up way too late to read it because I couldn’t stop.
I adored it.
It’s not going to be a book for everyone. It’s messy. And covers hard topics. (NOT A ROMCOM!) But the emotions and yearning and the honest and raw portrayal of Tristan’s and Evan’s love story felt so real. It was heartbreaking and beautiful. And such a roller coaster. Every time the timeline jumped ahead - my heart hurt. But it was very realistic and honest in the timeline approach.
What You’ll Find:
❤️🩹Childhood lovers
❤️🩹Second chance romance
❤️🩹Healing journey
❤️🩹Emotional romance
❤️🩹Tattoos and piercings
❤️🩹Small town
❤️🩹Found family
Trigger warnings: This book is a walking trigger warning. It’s heavy and has a lot of triggers. So please check those and your mental health before reading.
September 20, 2024
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #thethingswebreak #thenerdfam
This book follows an on and off again relationship between Evan & Tristan.
This book was incredibly raw and real. Check your trigger warnings as there are a lot of heavy topics.
This whole story was very emotional and moving. It showed the real complexities that come with relationships and friendships, the hardships you go though, the pain, the ugly, and the beautiful.
As beautiful as this story was, I didn’t find myself rooting for the couple. As individuals, yes, but not together. I could feel Ev’s pain but I felt they were incredibly trauma bonded. I found myself frustrated reading this book as someone who’s went through something similar.
Overall, If you want a DEEP and raw love story, I think you’d really enjoy this.
This book follows an on and off again relationship between Evan & Tristan.
This book was incredibly raw and real. Check your trigger warnings as there are a lot of heavy topics.
This whole story was very emotional and moving. It showed the real complexities that come with relationships and friendships, the hardships you go though, the pain, the ugly, and the beautiful.
As beautiful as this story was, I didn’t find myself rooting for the couple. As individuals, yes, but not together. I could feel Ev’s pain but I felt they were incredibly trauma bonded. I found myself frustrated reading this book as someone who’s went through something similar.
Overall, If you want a DEEP and raw love story, I think you’d really enjoy this.
October 6, 2024
Holy angst! This one! I felt so many feelings. This one hurt, a lot, and frequently. This is a deeply emotional book. This book had me wanting to put it down to take a break for my heart, and yet keep going because it was so good. It starts off pretty emotional from the get go, and just progresses from there. This the first book Ive read from this author, and I am super happy with it. I will pick up their work again.
This is a heart wrenching Contemporary Romance. The romance in this book is an emotional rollercoaster ride. There is not a lot of spice in this book. Although the spice that is in the book is very descriptive. The book moves at an overall steady pace following Evan, as she moves through her life battling her heart, and soul. Her heart has belonged to Tristan for longer than it should, and moving on hasnt been easy. Especially when after 12 years he makes an unexpected run in with her. This book will put your heart through the wringer with its emotional ups, and downs. You will love characters, and be angry with them the next. This book definitely is one you will need a box of tissues with when you sit down to get lost between the page in.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is a heart wrenching Contemporary Romance. The romance in this book is an emotional rollercoaster ride. There is not a lot of spice in this book. Although the spice that is in the book is very descriptive. The book moves at an overall steady pace following Evan, as she moves through her life battling her heart, and soul. Her heart has belonged to Tristan for longer than it should, and moving on hasnt been easy. Especially when after 12 years he makes an unexpected run in with her. This book will put your heart through the wringer with its emotional ups, and downs. You will love characters, and be angry with them the next. This book definitely is one you will need a box of tissues with when you sit down to get lost between the page in.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
October 13, 2024
Top read of the year🙌
I cried. I sat on the edge of my seat. I wanted to strangle Tristan's father myself. I wanted to hug and sit with Evan while she struggled.
I need more.. of their story. But also time to compose my thoughts and leave a proper review. I'm too emotional right now. 😭
________
Okay first off this is not a cotton candy romance. It is raw and very rough around the edges as far a subject matter. The writing draws you right in and makes you not want to put it down k accept to cry). Check your trigger warnings. Lots of parental abuse, neglect, failings that we see the result of in the characters all grown up.
Tristan and Evan were first loves separated by 12 years but neither stopped loving each other. Both unable to fully move on. Always feeling that invisible string pulling them back together.
The story is beautiful but so real and raw. Loads of mental health talk. (Evan becomes a therapist).
Read if you like:
Broken boys
Love that wins in the end
Mental health rep
Tattooed hotties
Amazing friend group
Tragedy of Romeo and Julie w/o the death
Strong female lead
Need a good cry. 🥰
I cried. I sat on the edge of my seat. I wanted to strangle Tristan's father myself. I wanted to hug and sit with Evan while she struggled.
I need more.. of their story. But also time to compose my thoughts and leave a proper review. I'm too emotional right now. 😭
________
Okay first off this is not a cotton candy romance. It is raw and very rough around the edges as far a subject matter. The writing draws you right in and makes you not want to put it down k accept to cry). Check your trigger warnings. Lots of parental abuse, neglect, failings that we see the result of in the characters all grown up.
Tristan and Evan were first loves separated by 12 years but neither stopped loving each other. Both unable to fully move on. Always feeling that invisible string pulling them back together.
The story is beautiful but so real and raw. Loads of mental health talk. (Evan becomes a therapist).
Read if you like:
Broken boys
Love that wins in the end
Mental health rep
Tattooed hotties
Amazing friend group
Tragedy of Romeo and Julie w/o the death
Strong female lead
Need a good cry. 🥰
October 21, 2024
Broken, And So Beautiful It Hurts
Wow, okay, this book went places I wasn’t expecting. We’re talking some dark and harrowing places. But it felt honest and shined a big ol’ spotlight at the unvarnished underbelly of small town life and narrow minded hypocrisy.
I swear it felt like this book was written to the soundtrack of TSwift’s DPD.
Tristan and Evan’s story was painful and it hurt to read as much as it hooked me in. At times I wasn’t sure if I was rooting for them to get together or find the solace they needed to live apart. It was bittersweet and majorly deviated from a typical romance. But if you like romances that packed full of heavy emotions then you’ll love this.
Wow, okay, this book went places I wasn’t expecting. We’re talking some dark and harrowing places. But it felt honest and shined a big ol’ spotlight at the unvarnished underbelly of small town life and narrow minded hypocrisy.
I swear it felt like this book was written to the soundtrack of TSwift’s DPD.
Tristan and Evan’s story was painful and it hurt to read as much as it hooked me in. At times I wasn’t sure if I was rooting for them to get together or find the solace they needed to live apart. It was bittersweet and majorly deviated from a typical romance. But if you like romances that packed full of heavy emotions then you’ll love this.
September 25, 2024
-this book covers and dives into a lot of tough topics and I highly recommend checking triggers before starting-
This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and lots of hitting-home feelings. I binged it in one day even though I had to take a few cry breaks. 😅This story is raw, emotional, and real, do not expect a fluffy romance. Recommend this book and Melissa's other book One Summer Knight.
Vibes
-Tattoos
- Small town
- Second chance
- Coming of age
- First love
- Darker themes
- Open door spice
This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and lots of hitting-home feelings. I binged it in one day even though I had to take a few cry breaks. 😅This story is raw, emotional, and real, do not expect a fluffy romance. Recommend this book and Melissa's other book One Summer Knight.
Vibes
-Tattoos
- Small town
- Second chance
- Coming of age
- First love
- Darker themes
- Open door spice
September 19, 2024
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Things We Break
Author: Melissa Naatz
Romance
"Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #thethingswebreak #thenerdfam"
Wow, so grateful for this read. It was so good. What a love story. This book has childhood lovers, second chance romance themes. Evan and Tristan have a pretty dark past and history together. Tristan has family struggles while Evan is dealing with hardships of her own. They find each other to lean on during these times of need, and plan to run away together when they turn eighteen. Things of course don’t go as planned and Tristan breaks her heart. We have a thirteen year time jump and their paths cross again. This book was messed up, deep, and emotional. I felt every possible feeling while reading it and I really loved it. There was a bit of spice thrown in too. It was good if you want to read something intense and not super light and fluffy. It was a beautiful romance and I loved it so much. Can’t wait to see what else this author has in store. ❤️
The Things We Break
Author: Melissa Naatz
Romance
"Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC. #thethingswebreak #thenerdfam"
Wow, so grateful for this read. It was so good. What a love story. This book has childhood lovers, second chance romance themes. Evan and Tristan have a pretty dark past and history together. Tristan has family struggles while Evan is dealing with hardships of her own. They find each other to lean on during these times of need, and plan to run away together when they turn eighteen. Things of course don’t go as planned and Tristan breaks her heart. We have a thirteen year time jump and their paths cross again. This book was messed up, deep, and emotional. I felt every possible feeling while reading it and I really loved it. There was a bit of spice thrown in too. It was good if you want to read something intense and not super light and fluffy. It was a beautiful romance and I loved it so much. Can’t wait to see what else this author has in store. ❤️
October 15, 2024
Ah, the red thread of fate—tangled, stretched, but never quite broken. The Things we Break spins a heartwarming yet emotional tale of first loves, broken hearts, and second chances. Evan and Tristan’s story will tug at your heartstrings as their red thread is put to the ultimate test. From high school sweethearts to complicated adults, you’ll be rooting for them to untangle the mess life has made of their love.
If you’re into stories with deep connections, a dash of angst, and a sprinkle of fate, this one’s sure to tie you in knots—in the best way possible!
If you’re into stories with deep connections, a dash of angst, and a sprinkle of fate, this one’s sure to tie you in knots—in the best way possible!
September 25, 2024
I couldn’t out this down, it is the perfect “broken romance” it broke my heart and by the end out it together again. I finished in 48 hours it was so good. It did leave me with a few questions at the end that is why I rated it 4 stars and not 5. The ending…. Did he propose? That is what is eating me alive HAHAHHAA. Other than that, it was great! I do recommend reading it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2024
I’m struggling with my rating for this book because on one hand I devoured it and the story and characters got so in my head that I was thinking about them when I wasn’t reading which wasn’t often because I couldn’t put the book down. I started and finished it in a day.
That would normally be an easy 5 star rating for me but the ending felt unfinished and I wanted more so I’m a little salty and not sure if this would still be a 5 star for me.
The love story is raw and real and hurts but I was glued to it. I loved Evan got stronger through the book and near the end when she really stood her ground I was applauding her so much!
I loved Tristan and felt his pain and wanted to hug him so many times. I wish we had gotten more at the end, a few more chapters, a look into the future, an epilogue…something.
In the beginning things seemed to be repetitive but soon it got better and I was 100% hooked.
I’m going to and this review and say this book is a 4 to 4.5 stars for me.
That would normally be an easy 5 star rating for me but the ending felt unfinished and I wanted more so I’m a little salty and not sure if this would still be a 5 star for me.
The love story is raw and real and hurts but I was glued to it. I loved Evan got stronger through the book and near the end when she really stood her ground I was applauding her so much!
I loved Tristan and felt his pain and wanted to hug him so many times. I wish we had gotten more at the end, a few more chapters, a look into the future, an epilogue…something.
In the beginning things seemed to be repetitive but soon it got better and I was 100% hooked.
I’m going to and this review and say this book is a 4 to 4.5 stars for me.
October 29, 2024
This is not your typical romance novel. This story is well written but very heavy. This is a story of how experiences in your teens impact you as an adult.
It was hard for me to pick how I wanted this story to go. You can also see this struggle with Evan. While the relationship was kind of toxic you could also see how broken both MCs were. This story isn't a feel good love story you get in most contemporary romances. This story shows how messy life can be. It shows how society is to those who are not as fortunate as others.
Definitely make sure to check the content warnings on this book. If you feel you aren't in the right mindset for a book with very emotional and traumatic content please listen to your mental health.
It was hard for me to pick how I wanted this story to go. You can also see this struggle with Evan. While the relationship was kind of toxic you could also see how broken both MCs were. This story isn't a feel good love story you get in most contemporary romances. This story shows how messy life can be. It shows how society is to those who are not as fortunate as others.
Definitely make sure to check the content warnings on this book. If you feel you aren't in the right mindset for a book with very emotional and traumatic content please listen to your mental health.
November 1, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ I liked the unwell therapist vibes of this book and the solid friendships weaved in throughout the book. I gave the book an extra .5 ⭐️ for the talk of hot heavily tattooed men and Prince Albert piercings.
Where the book fell flat for me was the toxic ongoing relationship between Evan and Tristan. They do get the HEA, but it’s also miscommunication, cheating, and hurting other innocent people in the mix. I felt bad for the other great men in Evan’s life who she tossed for a toxic relationship.
I got Love Letter to Whisky vibes from this book and I had to DNF that book.
Where the book fell flat for me was the toxic ongoing relationship between Evan and Tristan. They do get the HEA, but it’s also miscommunication, cheating, and hurting other innocent people in the mix. I felt bad for the other great men in Evan’s life who she tossed for a toxic relationship.
I got Love Letter to Whisky vibes from this book and I had to DNF that book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2024
Omg this book!!! I couldn’t put it down!!! I loved every bit of it!!!
Read
October 5, 2024DNF at 7% - this book should have a CW for cheating. I also can’t get behind this MMC.
Thank you Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thank you Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read this ARC.
October 2, 2025
I was granted the privilege of getting an ARC of this book & I am so happy I did. The book followed two main characters from their adolescence into adulthood. The struggles they faced with abuse & mental health were written perfectly and I give the author MAJOR kudos for writing them in a deeply realistic way. The story itself kept me incredibly intrigued from beginning to end. I can’t wait to read more from this author! I loved both the MMC & FMC! Their love story is not an easy one, but a very enjoyable one!!
September 30, 2024
Heartbreaking romance that kept me wanting more. I loved immersing myself into Evan’s journey and how her and Tristan’s characters grew and transitioned. Parts of the book felt like I could connect with her so well that I could feel the trauma and heartbreak every step she went through. I wish there was more detail into the ending, “I have a question to ask you” has my mind rolling but I’ll imagine they finally got the HEA that they both deserved.
Spice: 🌶️
Trigger Warnings: Psychological abuse, Death, Mention of SA (doesn’t occur), Violence and Blood.
Spice: 🌶️
Trigger Warnings: Psychological abuse, Death, Mention of SA (doesn’t occur), Violence and Blood.
September 29, 2024
4.5⭐️/ 2-3🌶️
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam and Melissa Naatz for providing me with an ARC of this book. Greatly appreciated and as always all my thoughts and opinions are my own.
*Please check trigger warnings before reading.
Melissa Naatz is back with her newest release, but this time with even more emotion, angst, heartbreak, young love, a love so deep that spanned years, and finding your way back to your first love. For Evan, she had her first love with a green eyed boy named, Tristian. Tristian was the bad boy that many in the town thought was no good, but to Evan that didn’t matter because, she didn’t believe in small town rumors, and secondly, she knew the real Tristian. This story was told in past, and present to illustrate Tristian and Evan’s relationship as they fell in love, went there separate ways, and ultimately saw the different phases in their lives as they got older. Melissa Naatz didn’t hold back on the emotional connection between Tristian and Evan which I truly loved from the very first chapter.
Oh man, where do I start with this book? First off, Melissa Naatz did a wonderful job bringing to life Tristan and Evan’s story! I was fully invested from the beginning and the more I read, the more I felt like in the midst of everything that had happened. Tristan and Evan’s story wasn’t one of cuteness and simplicity. Instead, Tristan and Evan’s story dealt with hardships, heartbreak, and grief. If you’re looking for an emotional romance that’ll pull at your heartstrings, and make you want to protect the characters at all costs, then you’ll love Tristan and Evan.
First love brings a lot of different emotions from, the euphoria of the first everything, to hoping it’ll last forever, but for Tristan and Evan, their story wasn’t as easy as one would have hoped. My heart really went out to both Evan and Tristan especially considering the way their childhoods were, and the judgement they faced within their small town. Regardless of the bad things that had occurred in their lives, the one bright spot in Tristan and Evan’s lives was that they always had each other. I liked seeing Evan and Tristan when they were younger because, it gave more background on their earlier years together, but also set the scene for the later chapters in how they eventually parted ways. I could see and feel the heartache and sadness that both Evan and Tristan experienced as well as the longing when they later reconnected in the present.
This was a different story from the previous book that Melissa Naatz wrote. While Melissa’s first book was a mix of lighthearted and tackled some heavy topics, this story definitely went in more on deeper/ heavy topics that weren’t light by any means. Regardless, I really loved this story despite me feeling sad at the things that Evan and Tristan experienced. Evan and Tristan’s love was deep, meaningful, and spanned over the course of many years. The thing about this story was that it truly illustrated the highs and lows of Evan and Tristan’s lives separately and together. In addition, showing that not all relationships are perfect nor can love simply fix everything as easily as one would think. Evan and Tristan had a long way to reach their happy ending, and it was a rollercoaster of emotions that frankly tugged on my heartstrings. Evan and Tristan were great together, I felt their connection wholeheartedly, and absolutely loved the way they were together. I would recommend this book if you’re looking for an emotional, angsty romance with tropes from, “it’s always been you”, right person, wrong time, and a romance that’ll illustrate the reality of hardships some people such as, Evan and Tristan went through.
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam and Melissa Naatz for providing me with an ARC of this book. Greatly appreciated and as always all my thoughts and opinions are my own.
*Please check trigger warnings before reading.
Melissa Naatz is back with her newest release, but this time with even more emotion, angst, heartbreak, young love, a love so deep that spanned years, and finding your way back to your first love. For Evan, she had her first love with a green eyed boy named, Tristian. Tristian was the bad boy that many in the town thought was no good, but to Evan that didn’t matter because, she didn’t believe in small town rumors, and secondly, she knew the real Tristian. This story was told in past, and present to illustrate Tristian and Evan’s relationship as they fell in love, went there separate ways, and ultimately saw the different phases in their lives as they got older. Melissa Naatz didn’t hold back on the emotional connection between Tristian and Evan which I truly loved from the very first chapter.
Oh man, where do I start with this book? First off, Melissa Naatz did a wonderful job bringing to life Tristan and Evan’s story! I was fully invested from the beginning and the more I read, the more I felt like in the midst of everything that had happened. Tristan and Evan’s story wasn’t one of cuteness and simplicity. Instead, Tristan and Evan’s story dealt with hardships, heartbreak, and grief. If you’re looking for an emotional romance that’ll pull at your heartstrings, and make you want to protect the characters at all costs, then you’ll love Tristan and Evan.
First love brings a lot of different emotions from, the euphoria of the first everything, to hoping it’ll last forever, but for Tristan and Evan, their story wasn’t as easy as one would have hoped. My heart really went out to both Evan and Tristan especially considering the way their childhoods were, and the judgement they faced within their small town. Regardless of the bad things that had occurred in their lives, the one bright spot in Tristan and Evan’s lives was that they always had each other. I liked seeing Evan and Tristan when they were younger because, it gave more background on their earlier years together, but also set the scene for the later chapters in how they eventually parted ways. I could see and feel the heartache and sadness that both Evan and Tristan experienced as well as the longing when they later reconnected in the present.
This was a different story from the previous book that Melissa Naatz wrote. While Melissa’s first book was a mix of lighthearted and tackled some heavy topics, this story definitely went in more on deeper/ heavy topics that weren’t light by any means. Regardless, I really loved this story despite me feeling sad at the things that Evan and Tristan experienced. Evan and Tristan’s love was deep, meaningful, and spanned over the course of many years. The thing about this story was that it truly illustrated the highs and lows of Evan and Tristan’s lives separately and together. In addition, showing that not all relationships are perfect nor can love simply fix everything as easily as one would think. Evan and Tristan had a long way to reach their happy ending, and it was a rollercoaster of emotions that frankly tugged on my heartstrings. Evan and Tristan were great together, I felt their connection wholeheartedly, and absolutely loved the way they were together. I would recommend this book if you’re looking for an emotional, angsty romance with tropes from, “it’s always been you”, right person, wrong time, and a romance that’ll illustrate the reality of hardships some people such as, Evan and Tristan went through.
October 7, 2024
˗ˏˋ ARC Review ˎˊ˗
📖 The Things We Break
✒️ Melissa Naatz
⭐ 3.5
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC.
#thethingswebreak #thenerdfam @thenerdfam
This kind of genre is new to me. The book has touched on the heavy issues of family, abuse, addiction, heartbreaks, as well as adulthood. Their rough teenage years shaped their viewpoints and choices, which eventually shaped their circumstances as well as who they've become.
The first part of the story revolves around the small town of Parkfield, where Tristan and Evan's story began during their middle school years. While Tristan endures physical and emotional abuse from his parents, Evan suffers verbal abuse from her mother, with her father no longer present to protect her. Given their circumstances, it is reasonable to assume that their relationship would be shitty. Both Tristan and Evan need to heal from their own wounds. I remember the saying, “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” Everything Tristan received from his parents was pain, and no matter how much he loved Evan, it was inevitable that he would hurt her and pour out the pain he has on his cup. They can’t handle their relationship properly with those additional baggages they’re lifting.
Fast-forward, the two reconnected 12 years later, both enjoying great success in their respective careers and making new friends. Still making messed-up decisions even after all this time. Tristan being the brightest red of all flags, and Evan the blindest of all the blind when it comes to love. I got really frustrated at how easily Evan is drawn to Tristan, no matter how deep he cuts her, and no matter how hard she tries to move on and start a new relationship with someone, and how she messes up the life of her new relationship even if all Tristan did was mess up hers.
The book is fucked up deep and may not be everyone's cup of tea. However, the edges of the book are sometimes softened up by the banter between their friends; I loved it! It's so witty and warm at the same time. I have to admit, there were times when I was so tempted to give up on reading because I found the twists and turns annoyingly messed up. But then, it's so relatable that I even have a lot of book highlights!
Contents:
➺ Heartbreaking romance
➺ Deeply emotional
➺ Second chance
➺ Childhood romance
➺ Addiction
➺ Mental health issues
➺ Small town
📖 The Things We Break
✒️ Melissa Naatz
⭐ 3.5
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC.
#thethingswebreak #thenerdfam @thenerdfam
This kind of genre is new to me. The book has touched on the heavy issues of family, abuse, addiction, heartbreaks, as well as adulthood. Their rough teenage years shaped their viewpoints and choices, which eventually shaped their circumstances as well as who they've become.
The first part of the story revolves around the small town of Parkfield, where Tristan and Evan's story began during their middle school years. While Tristan endures physical and emotional abuse from his parents, Evan suffers verbal abuse from her mother, with her father no longer present to protect her. Given their circumstances, it is reasonable to assume that their relationship would be shitty. Both Tristan and Evan need to heal from their own wounds. I remember the saying, “You cannot pour from an empty cup.” Everything Tristan received from his parents was pain, and no matter how much he loved Evan, it was inevitable that he would hurt her and pour out the pain he has on his cup. They can’t handle their relationship properly with those additional baggages they’re lifting.
Fast-forward, the two reconnected 12 years later, both enjoying great success in their respective careers and making new friends. Still making messed-up decisions even after all this time. Tristan being the brightest red of all flags, and Evan the blindest of all the blind when it comes to love. I got really frustrated at how easily Evan is drawn to Tristan, no matter how deep he cuts her, and no matter how hard she tries to move on and start a new relationship with someone, and how she messes up the life of her new relationship even if all Tristan did was mess up hers.
The book is fucked up deep and may not be everyone's cup of tea. However, the edges of the book are sometimes softened up by the banter between their friends; I loved it! It's so witty and warm at the same time. I have to admit, there were times when I was so tempted to give up on reading because I found the twists and turns annoyingly messed up. But then, it's so relatable that I even have a lot of book highlights!
Contents:
➺ Heartbreaking romance
➺ Deeply emotional
➺ Second chance
➺ Childhood romance
➺ Addiction
➺ Mental health issues
➺ Small town
September 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ - 4,5 stars (roundup to 5)
"He's like the flame and we are all moths."
"What do you want Tristan? Do you really want to be just friends?"
"No, I want to prove to you that I've changed.
I want to make up for all the years that I missed. Letting you go is the biggest mistake I made in my life. I think about it every day."
Imagine not only being in deeply in love with your highschool sweetheart, but also sharing a deep connection because you helped each other get over your trauma's.
One day he breaks your heart into thousand pieces and you both go separate ways.
12 years later you have a nice life, good job and a boyfriend, but never loved anyone as deeply as your first love.
And when you are going to a bar to celebrate your bestfriend's birthday, there he is, the ghost from your past.
What would you do?
Review:
This was a wild emotional roller coaster. My heart was already broken in the first 2 chapters.
This book gave me so many feelings like heartbreak, jealousy, angriness, butterflies and happiness.
I read it in less than 24 hours so I absolutely devoured it and honestly I wouldn't have mind if it was a little longer. It even left me staring at the wall for 10 minutes when I finished it and I already miss the characters Evan and Tristan.
I think the author did a great job because she is not afraid to write about chatacters with flaws.
There were even certain tropes I normally don't like, but because it's really well written with background stories it didn't bother me as much.
Because of their trauma's, both maincharacters could be toxic at times.
So if you like fluffy romance stories, skip..
If you love deep and raw connections go pre-order now!
This book comes out on October 15th 2024.
(Do read the TW's because this book has darker themes.)
This is the second book from this author that I read as an ARC gifted by @thenerdfam.
The first one 'One Summer Knight' is also amazing! So definitely go check that one out.
- Contemporary romance
- Small town
- Second chance
- Coming of age
- First love
- Darker themes
- Heart wrenching
- Open door spice
"He's like the flame and we are all moths."
"What do you want Tristan? Do you really want to be just friends?"
"No, I want to prove to you that I've changed.
I want to make up for all the years that I missed. Letting you go is the biggest mistake I made in my life. I think about it every day."
Imagine not only being in deeply in love with your highschool sweetheart, but also sharing a deep connection because you helped each other get over your trauma's.
One day he breaks your heart into thousand pieces and you both go separate ways.
12 years later you have a nice life, good job and a boyfriend, but never loved anyone as deeply as your first love.
And when you are going to a bar to celebrate your bestfriend's birthday, there he is, the ghost from your past.
What would you do?
Review:
This was a wild emotional roller coaster. My heart was already broken in the first 2 chapters.
This book gave me so many feelings like heartbreak, jealousy, angriness, butterflies and happiness.
I read it in less than 24 hours so I absolutely devoured it and honestly I wouldn't have mind if it was a little longer. It even left me staring at the wall for 10 minutes when I finished it and I already miss the characters Evan and Tristan.
I think the author did a great job because she is not afraid to write about chatacters with flaws.
There were even certain tropes I normally don't like, but because it's really well written with background stories it didn't bother me as much.
Because of their trauma's, both maincharacters could be toxic at times.
So if you like fluffy romance stories, skip..
If you love deep and raw connections go pre-order now!
This book comes out on October 15th 2024.
(Do read the TW's because this book has darker themes.)
This is the second book from this author that I read as an ARC gifted by @thenerdfam.
The first one 'One Summer Knight' is also amazing! So definitely go check that one out.
- Contemporary romance
- Small town
- Second chance
- Coming of age
- First love
- Darker themes
- Heart wrenching
- Open door spice
September 26, 2024
TROPES
• trauma bonding
• romance
• second/third chance relationship
• mental health awareness
• small town
• messed up families
So much more
This story had me from the very beginning and I couldn’t stop. I want to thank the nerdfam and Melissa Naatz for the arc copy I received. This book is such a rollercoaster of emotions. It keeps you guessing what will happen until the very end. Evan and Tristan are basically in love with each other from the day they meet in middle school. Tristan comes from a very messed up family. His dad killed himself and from that day on his mom hates/blames him for what happen. So when Tristan’s stepdad starts beating on him she does nothing. Every night Tristan and his little brother Noah show up at Evan’s house. It is up to her to piece Tristan back together in her bathroom. At first they have Evan’s dad on there side to try and help but sadly he dies of cancer. Evan’s mom wants nothing to do with Tristan. So slowly it’s Evan, Tristan and little Noah against the world. Night after night all thought high school Noah is asleep in Evan’s bed while she patches up Tristan on her bathroom floor. Evan and Tristan truly love each other but they also bond thought their traumatic experiences. All through high school they do this. Time for college and sadly Evan has to go but Tristan can’t leave his brother. They break up and this starts the rollercoaster of their life’s apart. They don’t see each other again for 12 years. Will they make it through their own trauma and be able to get back together. The characters are so well written in this story. I was rooting for them the whole time. I love this story and how it had such a deeper meaning to it. So glad I got to read and experience this story. It was a good change from the stuff I’ve been reading lately. I would highly recommend this book.
• trauma bonding
• romance
• second/third chance relationship
• mental health awareness
• small town
• messed up families
So much more
This story had me from the very beginning and I couldn’t stop. I want to thank the nerdfam and Melissa Naatz for the arc copy I received. This book is such a rollercoaster of emotions. It keeps you guessing what will happen until the very end. Evan and Tristan are basically in love with each other from the day they meet in middle school. Tristan comes from a very messed up family. His dad killed himself and from that day on his mom hates/blames him for what happen. So when Tristan’s stepdad starts beating on him she does nothing. Every night Tristan and his little brother Noah show up at Evan’s house. It is up to her to piece Tristan back together in her bathroom. At first they have Evan’s dad on there side to try and help but sadly he dies of cancer. Evan’s mom wants nothing to do with Tristan. So slowly it’s Evan, Tristan and little Noah against the world. Night after night all thought high school Noah is asleep in Evan’s bed while she patches up Tristan on her bathroom floor. Evan and Tristan truly love each other but they also bond thought their traumatic experiences. All through high school they do this. Time for college and sadly Evan has to go but Tristan can’t leave his brother. They break up and this starts the rollercoaster of their life’s apart. They don’t see each other again for 12 years. Will they make it through their own trauma and be able to get back together. The characters are so well written in this story. I was rooting for them the whole time. I love this story and how it had such a deeper meaning to it. So glad I got to read and experience this story. It was a good change from the stuff I’ve been reading lately. I would highly recommend this book.
October 11, 2024
**ARC Review**
So this is a different kind of book for me. It’s a little deeper in content than what I’m used to since I primarily read fantasy/romantasy books. I went blind into this one and it seems to be something I do a little more these days. The cover drew me in, I’m glad it did too.
This book took a minute for me to get into, but once I was sucked in, I was literally in the book. It has a few trigger warnings that you should definitely be aware of before reading, but I was fine with them. I think one of the biggest triggers could be how deep the co-dependency for the FMC and MMC goes. It is very intense for both characters so much so that it affects the relationships they have outside of each other. But I think it’s also something to be noted that the friends and family around them know and understand the relationship between the two and what they mean to each other. Is it unhealthy at some points? Yes, very much so. But at the same time the way they love one another so intensely and so deeply, it is also endearing. I will say I enjoyed the supporting characters, namely the relationship that blossoms between the FMC and MMC’s best friends. Its relatable. It kind of balances out the intensity of the main couple. The supporting characters give an equal amount of support to the main characters but also aren’t afraid to call them out on their shit. If you don’t have friends like that in your life, you need to find at least one. They will make sure to keep you on track and humble you when it’s necessary. And there’s always a time when you need to be humbled.
This book is deep and can get kind of intense at times. So please take care while you read this and if you need to take a break from it then do so. Read or listen to a fluffier book while reading if you have to.
So this is a different kind of book for me. It’s a little deeper in content than what I’m used to since I primarily read fantasy/romantasy books. I went blind into this one and it seems to be something I do a little more these days. The cover drew me in, I’m glad it did too.
This book took a minute for me to get into, but once I was sucked in, I was literally in the book. It has a few trigger warnings that you should definitely be aware of before reading, but I was fine with them. I think one of the biggest triggers could be how deep the co-dependency for the FMC and MMC goes. It is very intense for both characters so much so that it affects the relationships they have outside of each other. But I think it’s also something to be noted that the friends and family around them know and understand the relationship between the two and what they mean to each other. Is it unhealthy at some points? Yes, very much so. But at the same time the way they love one another so intensely and so deeply, it is also endearing. I will say I enjoyed the supporting characters, namely the relationship that blossoms between the FMC and MMC’s best friends. Its relatable. It kind of balances out the intensity of the main couple. The supporting characters give an equal amount of support to the main characters but also aren’t afraid to call them out on their shit. If you don’t have friends like that in your life, you need to find at least one. They will make sure to keep you on track and humble you when it’s necessary. And there’s always a time when you need to be humbled.
This book is deep and can get kind of intense at times. So please take care while you read this and if you need to take a break from it then do so. Read or listen to a fluffier book while reading if you have to.
October 6, 2024
“I will wait forever.”
“Promise?”
“Until the end of time and even after that, I will wait for you.”
It’s taken me a few days to find the words to review this book. It was captivating, gut-wrenching, so full of love yet heartbreaking, all at the same time. This book deals with some really hard topics, and while it’s a romance, it’s a messy one, exploring on-again-off-again Tristan and Evan, who fell in love as young teens and were inseparable until Tristan broke Evan’s heart.
The author does such an incredible job of developing the characters and their relationships in a way that I felt so inexplicably connected to them and their plights. The stories told through the characters’ own and others’ viewpoints felt so real that it moved me, and it’s not often that I physiologically react to the emotions that play out in a book. Even though I had read the trigger warnings, I wasn’t expecting to feel so stricken, and so moved by the events, especially when every time you think the main characters come to a point where they might work it out, and yet the universe decides to meddle again. Please take note of the trigger warnings, because this is a roller coaster of a book.
The emotions and themes portrayed in this book are written so incredibly well that it hurts, it is raw and gritty and ugly and that’s what can make love so beautiful. I adored this book and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. Even reading the quotes that I’ve highlighted on my Kindle, and writing this review, is sending chills down my spine from how good and provoking this book is. Kudos to Melissa Naatz, because your words have truly brought this to life, the good and the bad.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Promise?”
“Until the end of time and even after that, I will wait for you.”
It’s taken me a few days to find the words to review this book. It was captivating, gut-wrenching, so full of love yet heartbreaking, all at the same time. This book deals with some really hard topics, and while it’s a romance, it’s a messy one, exploring on-again-off-again Tristan and Evan, who fell in love as young teens and were inseparable until Tristan broke Evan’s heart.
The author does such an incredible job of developing the characters and their relationships in a way that I felt so inexplicably connected to them and their plights. The stories told through the characters’ own and others’ viewpoints felt so real that it moved me, and it’s not often that I physiologically react to the emotions that play out in a book. Even though I had read the trigger warnings, I wasn’t expecting to feel so stricken, and so moved by the events, especially when every time you think the main characters come to a point where they might work it out, and yet the universe decides to meddle again. Please take note of the trigger warnings, because this is a roller coaster of a book.
The emotions and themes portrayed in this book are written so incredibly well that it hurts, it is raw and gritty and ugly and that’s what can make love so beautiful. I adored this book and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. Even reading the quotes that I’ve highlighted on my Kindle, and writing this review, is sending chills down my spine from how good and provoking this book is. Kudos to Melissa Naatz, because your words have truly brought this to life, the good and the bad.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2024
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC!
In The Things We Break, we dive into the entwined lives of Evan Carter and Tristan Anderson. From a tender kiss in eighth grade to the harrowing realities of an alcoholic father, their love was a sanctuary until the dreams of youth shattered one fateful night.
🔗 Years Later 🔗
Twelve years on, Evan's life is seemingly on track with a loving boyfriend and a fulfilling career—until Tristan reappears, reopening old wounds and forgotten promises. Now a changed man, he is determined to show Evan the strength of his transformation and the enduring power of their connection.
🌪️ A Journey Through Heartache 🌪️
This book is not your typical romance. It's a profound examination of love's complexity, beautifully illustrating the scars and yearnings of the human heart. It's raw, sometimes painfully so, covering heavy themes like parental abuse and emotional trauma.
🖤 Emotionally Charged 🖤
Every page pulsates with emotion, pulling you through a whirlwind of highs and lows that mirror the tangled, sometimes stretched, thread of fate. The timeline's realism hits hard, capturing the brutal honesty of life's unscripted moments.
💔 A Tough Love 💔
While the story's depth is undeniable, it's not an easy journey. As much as I empathized with Evan and Tristan as individuals, their together story felt more like a trauma bond than a fairy tale. It’s complex, it’s messy, and it demands reflection rather than mere enjoyment.
🚨 Heads-Up 🚨
If you decide to delve into this intense narrative, be prepared. It’s not light reading—it tackles tough topics head-on, demanding your full emotional engagement and, occasionally, a few tears. Make sure to check the trigger warnings for themes of abuse and neglect.
🌟 Final Thoughts 🌟
Melissa Naatz has crafted something truly special—a story that not only entertains but resonates on a deeply personal level. It's a testament to the beauty and brutality of love. An absolute must read for those who appreciate the raw truth of love.
#thethingswebreak #thenerdfam #reviews
In The Things We Break, we dive into the entwined lives of Evan Carter and Tristan Anderson. From a tender kiss in eighth grade to the harrowing realities of an alcoholic father, their love was a sanctuary until the dreams of youth shattered one fateful night.
🔗 Years Later 🔗
Twelve years on, Evan's life is seemingly on track with a loving boyfriend and a fulfilling career—until Tristan reappears, reopening old wounds and forgotten promises. Now a changed man, he is determined to show Evan the strength of his transformation and the enduring power of their connection.
🌪️ A Journey Through Heartache 🌪️
This book is not your typical romance. It's a profound examination of love's complexity, beautifully illustrating the scars and yearnings of the human heart. It's raw, sometimes painfully so, covering heavy themes like parental abuse and emotional trauma.
🖤 Emotionally Charged 🖤
Every page pulsates with emotion, pulling you through a whirlwind of highs and lows that mirror the tangled, sometimes stretched, thread of fate. The timeline's realism hits hard, capturing the brutal honesty of life's unscripted moments.
💔 A Tough Love 💔
While the story's depth is undeniable, it's not an easy journey. As much as I empathized with Evan and Tristan as individuals, their together story felt more like a trauma bond than a fairy tale. It’s complex, it’s messy, and it demands reflection rather than mere enjoyment.
🚨 Heads-Up 🚨
If you decide to delve into this intense narrative, be prepared. It’s not light reading—it tackles tough topics head-on, demanding your full emotional engagement and, occasionally, a few tears. Make sure to check the trigger warnings for themes of abuse and neglect.
🌟 Final Thoughts 🌟
Melissa Naatz has crafted something truly special—a story that not only entertains but resonates on a deeply personal level. It's a testament to the beauty and brutality of love. An absolute must read for those who appreciate the raw truth of love.
#thethingswebreak #thenerdfam #reviews
September 28, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️ Themes: second chance at love, young love, right one wrong time, finding oneself, healing journey, found family.
This is an contemporary romance that carries heavy themes within. Please check the content warning before proceeding.
* Thank you to Melissa Naatz and The Nerd Fam for this ARC. All thoughts are my own
“Because sometimes, it’s the boy in the story who needs to be saved”
Evan is amazing. She always had a huge heart and I loved seeing her develop her voice and confidence.
Tristan is beautifully broken. He knows and wants to make the changes but struggles as any normal person would.
The spice is well written and appropriate for the age of the characters. We do see the main characters as teens, so the door is closed during this time, but as adult the door is open! The spice helps to support the plot, not overwhelm it.
The side characters are amazing and add value to the plot. Each character adds elements that might be needed for the future of the story.
I am once again left utterly speechless. “The Things We Break” is a beautiful story about two people who are truly meant to be, but seem to always be pulled apart. The concept of the red string theory is beautifully written into the story but made it something believable.
This book will leave you feeling every emotion at the same time and loving it. This one has become one of my top reads of the year.
Thank you again to The Nerd Fam and Melissa for allowing me to ARC read this book. I cannot wait to see the other stories she has!
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️ Themes: second chance at love, young love, right one wrong time, finding oneself, healing journey, found family.
This is an contemporary romance that carries heavy themes within. Please check the content warning before proceeding.
* Thank you to Melissa Naatz and The Nerd Fam for this ARC. All thoughts are my own
“Because sometimes, it’s the boy in the story who needs to be saved”
Evan is amazing. She always had a huge heart and I loved seeing her develop her voice and confidence.
Tristan is beautifully broken. He knows and wants to make the changes but struggles as any normal person would.
The spice is well written and appropriate for the age of the characters. We do see the main characters as teens, so the door is closed during this time, but as adult the door is open! The spice helps to support the plot, not overwhelm it.
The side characters are amazing and add value to the plot. Each character adds elements that might be needed for the future of the story.
I am once again left utterly speechless. “The Things We Break” is a beautiful story about two people who are truly meant to be, but seem to always be pulled apart. The concept of the red string theory is beautifully written into the story but made it something believable.
This book will leave you feeling every emotion at the same time and loving it. This one has become one of my top reads of the year.
Thank you again to The Nerd Fam and Melissa for allowing me to ARC read this book. I cannot wait to see the other stories she has!
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