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Broken Hearts of Harbor's Head #4
Broken Promises
He's a man with a past. She's a woman who wants to be his future. But sometimes, before you can come together, you need to fall apart.
Her life changed the moment she met him. Fleeing from the religious commune that raised her, Clara was forced to leave behind everything and everyone she'd ever known. Completely alone and terrified, she's close to despair… until she sees Dominic. Able to anticipate every need she has without so much as a word, she easily falls into his arms, feeling safe and letting him hold her close through her first night of freedom.
He thought he was too broken to love. When Dominic became the manager of the safe house, he was determined to do anything to help those in need. However, his demons prevent him from letting anyone get too close, earning him the affectionate nickname “Mr. Grumpy.” But when Clara arrives, the dark-haired artist with the contagious laugh makes him feel things he didn't think he was capable of. Attraction. Passion. All consuming love. And for the first time, he imagines a future where he isn't alone.
As he helps Clara adjust to life in the outside world, she finds herself falling hard for the flannel-wearing grump. She doesn't know what her future will be, but she knows that there isn’t a thing they can’t accomplish together. She needs a life with him in it.
But when Dominic's painful past is laid bare, unleashing demons he’s been running from for years, he's torn between everything he ever wanted and the pain he can't seem to leave behind. Realizing that he can't have a future for himself if he's chained to his past, he has no choice but to push Clara away, breaking her heart.
However, as Clara reluctantly moves on and Dominic watches her slip away, he realizes he's made the worst mistake of his life. Yet, what choice did he have? Being with her means facing down his demons once and for all. But a life without her in it? That's no life at all.
Broken Promises is closed-door with mild swearing (no f-bombs)!
Her life changed the moment she met him. Fleeing from the religious commune that raised her, Clara was forced to leave behind everything and everyone she'd ever known. Completely alone and terrified, she's close to despair… until she sees Dominic. Able to anticipate every need she has without so much as a word, she easily falls into his arms, feeling safe and letting him hold her close through her first night of freedom.
He thought he was too broken to love. When Dominic became the manager of the safe house, he was determined to do anything to help those in need. However, his demons prevent him from letting anyone get too close, earning him the affectionate nickname “Mr. Grumpy.” But when Clara arrives, the dark-haired artist with the contagious laugh makes him feel things he didn't think he was capable of. Attraction. Passion. All consuming love. And for the first time, he imagines a future where he isn't alone.
As he helps Clara adjust to life in the outside world, she finds herself falling hard for the flannel-wearing grump. She doesn't know what her future will be, but she knows that there isn’t a thing they can’t accomplish together. She needs a life with him in it.
But when Dominic's painful past is laid bare, unleashing demons he’s been running from for years, he's torn between everything he ever wanted and the pain he can't seem to leave behind. Realizing that he can't have a future for himself if he's chained to his past, he has no choice but to push Clara away, breaking her heart.
However, as Clara reluctantly moves on and Dominic watches her slip away, he realizes he's made the worst mistake of his life. Yet, what choice did he have? Being with her means facing down his demons once and for all. But a life without her in it? That's no life at all.
Broken Promises is closed-door with mild swearing (no f-bombs)!
- GenresContemporary Romance
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2025
9 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Burton
21 books99 followersBrooke writes closed-door, mildly sweary contemporary romance. A tortured artist who began writing plays in the 3rd grade, she lost her muse as a teen and struggled for years to write again. Finally, after being inspired by some old friends during the pandemic, her writing came to fruition again in what became her first published novel.
Inspired by strong women who have very little tolerance for bull, she enjoys exploring equality in relationships with broken characters who clearly have made past mistakes. Don't we all?
Inspired by strong women who have very little tolerance for bull, she enjoys exploring equality in relationships with broken characters who clearly have made past mistakes. Don't we all?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 27, 2025
Dominic and Clara had a rough upbringing in a commune and was able to escape. Dominic was pulled to Clara the first night she had arrived at the safe house and felt like he needed to be her mentor. He was known and Mr. Grumpy around the house, but Clara was seeing a different side of her. Both of them had some demons from their past that they needed to overcome.
The two quickly grew close and feelings started to develop. However every time they would get close to being intimate Dominic would pull back which had Clara wondering why. He didn’t know if he could let her fully in. Could she handle his secrets and demons of the past?
Clara was sweet and very caring. She ended up getting a many job which she loved and they loved her too. She was given an opportunity to go to Paris which was a dream of hers. Dominic and Clara having time apart gave time for Dominic to face some things deep down that he had buried and realize that Clara was worth everything.
There was a twist I did not see coming. It broke the two apart and my heart was torn for poor Clara. She felt abandoned and let down by Dominic. I think the two really needed the time apart so they could grow individually.
3.75⭐️
1.5🌶️
The two quickly grew close and feelings started to develop. However every time they would get close to being intimate Dominic would pull back which had Clara wondering why. He didn’t know if he could let her fully in. Could she handle his secrets and demons of the past?
Clara was sweet and very caring. She ended up getting a many job which she loved and they loved her too. She was given an opportunity to go to Paris which was a dream of hers. Dominic and Clara having time apart gave time for Dominic to face some things deep down that he had buried and realize that Clara was worth everything.
There was a twist I did not see coming. It broke the two apart and my heart was torn for poor Clara. She felt abandoned and let down by Dominic. I think the two really needed the time apart so they could grow individually.
3.75⭐️
1.5🌶️
May 15, 2025
“Broken Promises” by Brooke Burton is Dominic and Clara’s love story, and it’s full of all the agonizing angst. It was also a spectacular example of how sometimes when you can’t let go of your past, you almost lose the person that could become your future.
Dominic and Clara have both been through a lot. They’re both dealing with a lot of trauma, but while Clara is determined to move past it and hopes to build a future with Dominic, Dominic is terrified that what he’s done in his past means he will never be allowed to have a happy ending.
This book was very well-written, in my opinion. Dominic and Clara were both likable characters, and even with all the miscommunication, I was still rooting for them and hoping they would find their way back to each other. In the end, I was satisfied with how their story ended. I highly recommend!
Dominic and Clara have both been through a lot. They’re both dealing with a lot of trauma, but while Clara is determined to move past it and hopes to build a future with Dominic, Dominic is terrified that what he’s done in his past means he will never be allowed to have a happy ending.
This book was very well-written, in my opinion. Dominic and Clara were both likable characters, and even with all the miscommunication, I was still rooting for them and hoping they would find their way back to each other. In the end, I was satisfied with how their story ended. I highly recommend!
April 24, 2025
This was a really thoughtful and sweet story. It is a closed door romance which I know is not everyone's jam, but if you were ever going to give it a try, I would recommend this story.
Clara has just escaped a religious commune and is brought to a safe house where she will get a new identity and life. She is scared and overwhelmed.
Dominic is the safe house's house manager. He escaped a religious commune several years ago and has done his best to bury the past in the past and move forward.
Clara and Dominic form a connection and eventually begin dating. Very seriously. Then Dominic freaks and reacts without rational thought and ends their relationship. Hearts are broken and lives are changed. It is not pretty. And it is sad.
They both embark on a journey of pain, reflection and growth.
I enjoyed this story and both main characters. I thought their backgrounds were handled with care and the discussions around their trauma were thoughtful. I have always had an interest in religious communes and hearing stories of survivors, so this was a story that was very much in my wheelhouse.
The story does discuss religious trauma and abuse. It doesn't go into great detail about the abuse if that is a concern for you.
Overall, this is a beautiful story of escape, facing your pain, learning to address your past but not living in it, healing, growth, and love. I recommend giving it a read if these themes interest you.
I received this as an ARC and appreciate the opportunity. My review is influenced only by my thoughts and vibes from the story, not the free copy.
Clara has just escaped a religious commune and is brought to a safe house where she will get a new identity and life. She is scared and overwhelmed.
Dominic is the safe house's house manager. He escaped a religious commune several years ago and has done his best to bury the past in the past and move forward.
Clara and Dominic form a connection and eventually begin dating. Very seriously. Then Dominic freaks and reacts without rational thought and ends their relationship. Hearts are broken and lives are changed. It is not pretty. And it is sad.
They both embark on a journey of pain, reflection and growth.
I enjoyed this story and both main characters. I thought their backgrounds were handled with care and the discussions around their trauma were thoughtful. I have always had an interest in religious communes and hearing stories of survivors, so this was a story that was very much in my wheelhouse.
The story does discuss religious trauma and abuse. It doesn't go into great detail about the abuse if that is a concern for you.
Overall, this is a beautiful story of escape, facing your pain, learning to address your past but not living in it, healing, growth, and love. I recommend giving it a read if these themes interest you.
I received this as an ARC and appreciate the opportunity. My review is influenced only by my thoughts and vibes from the story, not the free copy.
May 5, 2025
The way this book left me crying at the end of the novel 🥹🥹 i truly love this book so freaking much! This book truly made my emotions go through a whole rollercoaster ride that felt never ending in a good way 🥹 this is the story of Dominic and Clara, two people who have been through so much since they were kids. And had the courage to escape the religious commune they are from to start a new life.
We met Dominic, who is in charge of helping those in need at the safe house and was given the nickname “Mr Grumpy”. But the moment he sees Clara step off the van, his whole demeanor changes and offers to help her readjust into her new life. Slowly, with time and getting to know each other, a connection is strengthened and they realize what they feel for each other is the same.
Despite what Clara has been through, she is open to trying new things, embracing her so called demons which is art and fall in love with Dominic. She is ready to be his future, his one and only until Dominic’s past catches up to them. And boy does everything come crashing down. This book truly demonstrates how strong one has to be to let go of their future and reconcile with the fact that living in the past isn’t the way to go. This novel made me feel so many emotions and grapple with the fact that if I was either Dominic or Clara, I would do exactly the same thing. I loved reading this book so much and it is perfectly well written. You can feel all the emotions and feelings these two go through and want to shake both of them at various points of the book 😅
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
We met Dominic, who is in charge of helping those in need at the safe house and was given the nickname “Mr Grumpy”. But the moment he sees Clara step off the van, his whole demeanor changes and offers to help her readjust into her new life. Slowly, with time and getting to know each other, a connection is strengthened and they realize what they feel for each other is the same.
Despite what Clara has been through, she is open to trying new things, embracing her so called demons which is art and fall in love with Dominic. She is ready to be his future, his one and only until Dominic’s past catches up to them. And boy does everything come crashing down. This book truly demonstrates how strong one has to be to let go of their future and reconcile with the fact that living in the past isn’t the way to go. This novel made me feel so many emotions and grapple with the fact that if I was either Dominic or Clara, I would do exactly the same thing. I loved reading this book so much and it is perfectly well written. You can feel all the emotions and feelings these two go through and want to shake both of them at various points of the book 😅
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
May 1, 2025
Clara and Dom are brought together after both surviving and escaping a sheltered life in a compound. Dom manages a safe house for those escaping various situations and Clara is one of those escaping a sheltered lifestyle and starting off fresh with a new identity. Instantly they click and come together bonding over relating to each others dark pasts.
This story gave insta-love / trauma bond vibes.
With the shelter lifestyles that both main characters seem to be brought up there's no awkwardness, hesitation or uninsuredness on how things work. They just seem to automatically know things that they would not have had access to with the sheltered lifestyle
Why do they let someone who left school at age 10 become a substitute teacher?
The progression of time was a little bit harder to follow. Was it a week later? Months later? Or only days?
The end of the relationship with Sully was very lack luster. There was a bit of a buildup that he might try something or put more pressure on Clara but then nothing happened.
Final thoughts
I really wish the author put more background about the characters. I feel like we would have understood more of their fears or personality or just the way they were in general if we knew that information. It gave snippets here and there but not exactly the full picture and some parts just did not add up. There are mentions that men and women were separated most of the time and they were not allowed in certain areas. I feel like that would cause many of the characters to have more hestitations to opposite sex. Examples of the lack of context were many of the characters knew how to use electronics even though they did not have access at the compound as well as a later scene alluded to them doing laundry in the river.
This story gave insta-love / trauma bond vibes.
With the shelter lifestyles that both main characters seem to be brought up there's no awkwardness, hesitation or uninsuredness on how things work. They just seem to automatically know things that they would not have had access to with the sheltered lifestyle
Why do they let someone who left school at age 10 become a substitute teacher?
The progression of time was a little bit harder to follow. Was it a week later? Months later? Or only days?
The end of the relationship with Sully was very lack luster. There was a bit of a buildup that he might try something or put more pressure on Clara but then nothing happened.
Final thoughts
I really wish the author put more background about the characters. I feel like we would have understood more of their fears or personality or just the way they were in general if we knew that information. It gave snippets here and there but not exactly the full picture and some parts just did not add up. There are mentions that men and women were separated most of the time and they were not allowed in certain areas. I feel like that would cause many of the characters to have more hestitations to opposite sex. Examples of the lack of context were many of the characters knew how to use electronics even though they did not have access at the compound as well as a later scene alluded to them doing laundry in the river.
April 30, 2025
If you're a fan of a slow burn, second chance romance, this one is for you.
While the slow burn isn't usually my style, I enjoyed this story.
Dominique running a house for those who have escaped their past lives in different communes is dealing with his own demons. He wants to completely forget his past and only focus on the future. He's so focused on work that most call him grumpy.
That is till Clara shows up as one of the next transports. Immediately, he is drawn to her and wants to comfort her. As he helps Clara transition into their new world, he begins to fall in love with her. She feels the same way about him, and things are going great until his past collides with his present. Due to him not wanting the two worlds to connect and heal from his trauma, he lets Clare slip away.
She's heartbroken but tries to move forward by putting all her effort into her new job, taking care of Blake. Will Blake's older brother Sully heal her heart, will Dominique stop being stubborn and begin to heal from his trauma and get his girl back?
I'm not spoiling the ending so you'll have to pick it up and read. 😊
While the slow burn isn't usually my style, I enjoyed this story.
Dominique running a house for those who have escaped their past lives in different communes is dealing with his own demons. He wants to completely forget his past and only focus on the future. He's so focused on work that most call him grumpy.
That is till Clara shows up as one of the next transports. Immediately, he is drawn to her and wants to comfort her. As he helps Clara transition into their new world, he begins to fall in love with her. She feels the same way about him, and things are going great until his past collides with his present. Due to him not wanting the two worlds to connect and heal from his trauma, he lets Clare slip away.
She's heartbroken but tries to move forward by putting all her effort into her new job, taking care of Blake. Will Blake's older brother Sully heal her heart, will Dominique stop being stubborn and begin to heal from his trauma and get his girl back?
I'm not spoiling the ending so you'll have to pick it up and read. 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2025
A second chance at life leads to a second chance at love in this slow burn romance by Brooke Burton.
When Clara fled from the religious commune where she was raised, she left everything behind, but then she finds Dominic. He manages the safe house that is her new home. Dominic understands everything that Clara is going through, having made his own escape six years earlier. He knows what she needs before she even knows herself. He makes her feel safe and those feelings quickly turn to love, but Dominic hasn't quite faced all of the demons from his past. Until he does that, how can they have a future together?
Although this is a romance, there is as much (or maybe even more) emphasis on Clara's personal journey and growth. With a newfound freedom, Clara sets out to find herself and to pursue her interests and dreams. As much as she and Dominic love and care for each other, they each need to grow individually before they can grow together. Although their connection is instant, this is a slow burn and a closed door romance. That's something that I'm not used to, but it definitely worked for this story. I found this storyline to be original and refreshing, and it was a nice change of pace from my typical romance reads.
When Clara fled from the religious commune where she was raised, she left everything behind, but then she finds Dominic. He manages the safe house that is her new home. Dominic understands everything that Clara is going through, having made his own escape six years earlier. He knows what she needs before she even knows herself. He makes her feel safe and those feelings quickly turn to love, but Dominic hasn't quite faced all of the demons from his past. Until he does that, how can they have a future together?
Although this is a romance, there is as much (or maybe even more) emphasis on Clara's personal journey and growth. With a newfound freedom, Clara sets out to find herself and to pursue her interests and dreams. As much as she and Dominic love and care for each other, they each need to grow individually before they can grow together. Although their connection is instant, this is a slow burn and a closed door romance. That's something that I'm not used to, but it definitely worked for this story. I found this storyline to be original and refreshing, and it was a nice change of pace from my typical romance reads.
April 25, 2025
The 4th book in the Broken Hearts of Harbor's head series. This one was about Dominic and Clara, who we met in the previous books, but as side characters. We know they're together in the previous books, but this is their background, separately, and together. When Clara first arrives at the Safe House from the Commune, she's lost and afraid. Dominic can relate, so he helps her to settle in. He watches as she blossoms into the beautiful woman he loves, until his past comes back to haunt him.
This book is sweet, the love that Dominic and Clara have for each other is what so many people hope for. It's about overcoming past traumas, working on how to cope with them in the now, and how to move forward so that you can still be happy. Clara and Dominic have overcome so much, they deserve that happiness. It takes them a little bit to work that out, but they get there, together.
If you're needing to read something with a little bit of hope and strength, this is the one!
Thank you soooo much for the opportunity to read this eARC!!
This book is sweet, the love that Dominic and Clara have for each other is what so many people hope for. It's about overcoming past traumas, working on how to cope with them in the now, and how to move forward so that you can still be happy. Clara and Dominic have overcome so much, they deserve that happiness. It takes them a little bit to work that out, but they get there, together.
If you're needing to read something with a little bit of hope and strength, this is the one!
Thank you soooo much for the opportunity to read this eARC!!
April 26, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I wasn’t sure how it would feel jumping into a series at Book 4, but Broken Promises completely pulled me in. Even without reading the earlier books, I felt like I knew these characters right away. Their connections were real, their struggles felt raw, and the small-town setting gave everything a grounded, cozy feel—even when emotions were running high.
This book has so many of my favorite tropes: grump & sunshine, friends to lovers, and second chances. The “closed-door” romance was handled beautifully—it kept things intimate and emotional without needing to go explicit.
The writing is heartfelt, and the emotional beats land perfectly. If you love new adult romance, small town drama, and characters who are destined to find their way back to each other, this is your book. I’m already looking at the rest of the series because this book definitely made me a Brooke Burton fan.
Rating: 4.5/5
What to expect:
❤️🩹 Closed-Door
🌳 Grump & Sunshine
❤️🩹 Friends to Lovers
🌳 Love Triangle
❤️🩹 New Adult
🌳 Fish Out of Water
❤️🩹 Destined for Love
🌳 Small Town Maine
❤️🩹 Second Chance
#arcreader #outnow #newrelease #brookeburton #brokenpromises #secondchance #newadult #closeddoor #lovetriangle
I wasn’t sure how it would feel jumping into a series at Book 4, but Broken Promises completely pulled me in. Even without reading the earlier books, I felt like I knew these characters right away. Their connections were real, their struggles felt raw, and the small-town setting gave everything a grounded, cozy feel—even when emotions were running high.
This book has so many of my favorite tropes: grump & sunshine, friends to lovers, and second chances. The “closed-door” romance was handled beautifully—it kept things intimate and emotional without needing to go explicit.
The writing is heartfelt, and the emotional beats land perfectly. If you love new adult romance, small town drama, and characters who are destined to find their way back to each other, this is your book. I’m already looking at the rest of the series because this book definitely made me a Brooke Burton fan.
Rating: 4.5/5
What to expect:
❤️🩹 Closed-Door
🌳 Grump & Sunshine
❤️🩹 Friends to Lovers
🌳 Love Triangle
❤️🩹 New Adult
🌳 Fish Out of Water
❤️🩹 Destined for Love
🌳 Small Town Maine
❤️🩹 Second Chance
#arcreader #outnow #newrelease #brookeburton #brokenpromises #secondchance #newadult #closeddoor #lovetriangle
May 2, 2025
IDK how to feel about this book to be honest.
It started out sooooo slow, but also so fast at the same time? If that makes sense. After the romance takes place, I am kind of just waiting for something else to happen, and I thought that it was the whole point of the book, so I am pretty confused. Then, the plot twist hit, and that made things a little more lively. It also made me hate Lauren, so there’s that.
After the plot twist (no spoilers here), it went from being a joint Dominic and Clara story to a just Clara story for the majority. It followed her life with little snippets of Dominic thrown in there. The ending was predictable, but I did enjoy the epilogue. Overall, I probably won’t read any more books from this series, but that’s okay!
It started out sooooo slow, but also so fast at the same time? If that makes sense. After the romance takes place, I am kind of just waiting for something else to happen, and I thought that it was the whole point of the book, so I am pretty confused. Then, the plot twist hit, and that made things a little more lively. It also made me hate Lauren, so there’s that.
After the plot twist (no spoilers here), it went from being a joint Dominic and Clara story to a just Clara story for the majority. It followed her life with little snippets of Dominic thrown in there. The ending was predictable, but I did enjoy the epilogue. Overall, I probably won’t read any more books from this series, but that’s okay!
May 2, 2025
This is Book 4 of the Broken Hearts of Harbor's Head Series and was also the first in the series (and by this author!) that I have read.
The story follows Carla and Dominic - two people with similar pasts, thrown together after Carla escapes a religious commune.
The story is utterly heart-wrenching at times.
Carla is an incredibly character and so full of love, even after everything she has been through while Dominic initially comes across as being surly but deep down he's a good guy who is battling his own demons.
I loved seeing the house that Dominic managed and how it is an incredibly important place for those who are trying to rebuild themselves after leaving religious commune.
You get to see how the house runs and the big plans that Dominic has!
With some of the events and sensitive topics, it was clear that Brooke had done lots of research as or pulled you into the story.
This is a lovely story and is the newest release of a 4-part series so far, then I definitely need to pick up the others!
A great read!
The story follows Carla and Dominic - two people with similar pasts, thrown together after Carla escapes a religious commune.
The story is utterly heart-wrenching at times.
Carla is an incredibly character and so full of love, even after everything she has been through while Dominic initially comes across as being surly but deep down he's a good guy who is battling his own demons.
I loved seeing the house that Dominic managed and how it is an incredibly important place for those who are trying to rebuild themselves after leaving religious commune.
You get to see how the house runs and the big plans that Dominic has!
With some of the events and sensitive topics, it was clear that Brooke had done lots of research as or pulled you into the story.
This is a lovely story and is the newest release of a 4-part series so far, then I definitely need to pick up the others!
A great read!
April 26, 2025
Dominic is the house manager of a safe house, providing refuge for those escaping terrible situations, as he did once upon a time. Clara is a new arrival, having just escaped a religious commune, and having not experienced much of the outside world. Dominic feels an instant connection to Clara, and finds himself drawn to her, supporting her by every means possible. They soon find themselves dating, however when Dominic is forced to face his past he acts drastically and ends their relationship.
The break up catapults Clara into independence, she leaves the group house, gets a new job, finds her independence. But she never stopped loving Dominic, and he's miserable without her. This was a really lovely story of personal growth, facing ones past and pushing through, to find each other again. It's a closed door romance, and it does touch on the abuse they have both endured and the trauma that resulted, but ultimately it's a story of healing.
I had not read the previous books in this series but I'm looking forward to going back to them soon
The break up catapults Clara into independence, she leaves the group house, gets a new job, finds her independence. But she never stopped loving Dominic, and he's miserable without her. This was a really lovely story of personal growth, facing ones past and pushing through, to find each other again. It's a closed door romance, and it does touch on the abuse they have both endured and the trauma that resulted, but ultimately it's a story of healing.
I had not read the previous books in this series but I'm looking forward to going back to them soon
April 27, 2025
This book revolves around second chances and shows a subtle way to move on from a troubled past.
It has drama, tragedy, love, second chances, a love triangle, and friends who turn into family.
Dominic had a troubled childhood and was placed in a shelter after running away from his problems. Now, he runs the same center that once took him in, helping others like him.
Clara is a new, tortured soul who comes to the Safe Shelter after running away and is placed under Dominic’s mentorship. He sees himself in her—scared, closed off, and broken.
The story is beautiful and sensitive to tough topics.
Dominic and Clara bond and fall in love, only to break up because of Dominic’s past demons, which he needs to confront in order to be with Clara.
After the breakup, Clara begins a journey of self-discovery, and her character grows significantly.
Overall, it’s a sensitive and positive book with a happy ending (HEA).
It has drama, tragedy, love, second chances, a love triangle, and friends who turn into family.
Dominic had a troubled childhood and was placed in a shelter after running away from his problems. Now, he runs the same center that once took him in, helping others like him.
Clara is a new, tortured soul who comes to the Safe Shelter after running away and is placed under Dominic’s mentorship. He sees himself in her—scared, closed off, and broken.
The story is beautiful and sensitive to tough topics.
Dominic and Clara bond and fall in love, only to break up because of Dominic’s past demons, which he needs to confront in order to be with Clara.
After the breakup, Clara begins a journey of self-discovery, and her character grows significantly.
Overall, it’s a sensitive and positive book with a happy ending (HEA).
April 26, 2025
This is a sweet and an emotional read. It follows 2 characters that escaped religious communes and are trying to start over. Clara, recently escaped leaving everything about her life behind and she is frightened. She comes to a safe house, where Dominic is the manager and he can relate since his past was one of escaping as well.
This book goes on the journey of self discovery, healing from trauma and making a new life for yourself. It revolves around falling in love and trusting that and letting go of your demons that haunt you. I feel the author did a remarkable job with handling the delicate traumas as well as writing in such a way the reader feels all of the emotions of the characters. This is a read I will be recommending!
This book goes on the journey of self discovery, healing from trauma and making a new life for yourself. It revolves around falling in love and trusting that and letting go of your demons that haunt you. I feel the author did a remarkable job with handling the delicate traumas as well as writing in such a way the reader feels all of the emotions of the characters. This is a read I will be recommending!
May 2, 2025
ARC Review:
It’s the story of Dominic, who is a house manager for a safe house who provides refuge to those who have faced terrible circumstances in their life and are in dire need of protection. He helps them get new identities and a way to start over.
Chaos started when Clara came into his life as one of the refugees. He couldn’t help but be drawn to her. They both found themselves falling for each other and started dating. But fate had a mind of its own, they suddenly broke up as their past traumas didn’t let them live in peace.
Now will they find their way back to each other? Will they ever forgive each other for breaking up? Will they heal from their past traumas? Or will they put their fears behind and give their love another and help each other heal?
If you love slow burn and second chances give this a try.
4/5 ⭐️
It’s the story of Dominic, who is a house manager for a safe house who provides refuge to those who have faced terrible circumstances in their life and are in dire need of protection. He helps them get new identities and a way to start over.
Chaos started when Clara came into his life as one of the refugees. He couldn’t help but be drawn to her. They both found themselves falling for each other and started dating. But fate had a mind of its own, they suddenly broke up as their past traumas didn’t let them live in peace.
Now will they find their way back to each other? Will they ever forgive each other for breaking up? Will they heal from their past traumas? Or will they put their fears behind and give their love another and help each other heal?
If you love slow burn and second chances give this a try.
4/5 ⭐️
April 25, 2025
OH WOW this was a wonderful story. The book cover had caught my attention and eye as the couple was so much in love with each other. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn't even put it down. Dominic and Clara had a romance moment at the harbor head in Maine. It was a very emotions manner that need to be taken care of in their lives. It was a sweet and romance few months of them begin together walking on the beach or taking a nice drive around Maine. But reconnected again will change everything in their lives and more. Rekindle that love they once share so long time ago is so beautiful and passion and that spark had ignited something in their heart and soul this second time around.
I highly recommend this book and you won't regret reading or be disappointed. I received advance copy from Happily PR via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones
I highly recommend this book and you won't regret reading or be disappointed. I received advance copy from Happily PR via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Trina Jones
April 26, 2025
**I received this novel as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While a closed door romance is normally not my go to book I loved the slower, potentially more realistic pace of this book, It was compelling to read along as Clara and Dominic overcame their own personal insecurities and began the long process of healing from the remnants of their past lives, though not without inherent difficulties along the way. easy quick read if you like a closed-door romance, with a grumpy MMC and a ““sunny despite her past” FMC.
“she was barely holding it together, and whatever she’d been through had marked her. Scarred her. But it was more than anyone in that van, or maybe even in that house, combined could understand.
All but Dominic.”
While a closed door romance is normally not my go to book I loved the slower, potentially more realistic pace of this book, It was compelling to read along as Clara and Dominic overcame their own personal insecurities and began the long process of healing from the remnants of their past lives, though not without inherent difficulties along the way. easy quick read if you like a closed-door romance, with a grumpy MMC and a ““sunny despite her past” FMC.
“she was barely holding it together, and whatever she’d been through had marked her. Scarred her. But it was more than anyone in that van, or maybe even in that house, combined could understand.
All but Dominic.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
A cute grumpy sunshine, friends to lover, closed doors romance. I love the story of Clara and Dominic.
Clara flees from a strict overprotected religious commune and seeks refuge at safe house where she meets Dominic. Sharing a fondness for art, Clara soon falls in love with Dominic, who was “Mr Grumpy” before he met Clara.
I love the idea of lilac lemonade too. I too would love to sit and enjoy the evening with a glass of that whilst reading.
This story is sure to tug on your heart strings but a really great read.
Thank you for Happily Booked PR for adding me to the ARC team.
Clara flees from a strict overprotected religious commune and seeks refuge at safe house where she meets Dominic. Sharing a fondness for art, Clara soon falls in love with Dominic, who was “Mr Grumpy” before he met Clara.
I love the idea of lilac lemonade too. I too would love to sit and enjoy the evening with a glass of that whilst reading.
This story is sure to tug on your heart strings but a really great read.
Thank you for Happily Booked PR for adding me to the ARC team.
April 27, 2025
thank you Happily Booked Pr for this opportunity and the author for arc reading
This book is a close door romance
a second chance at life and at love? Clara and Dominic had chemistry and he was very understanding of what she was going through but can they be together of the past haunting Clara this book was emotional and as once said you have to learn to love yourself before letting someone else love you .... can Dominic and Clara find their fate back to eachother as one? read & find out ❤️🔥
This book is a close door romance
a second chance at life and at love? Clara and Dominic had chemistry and he was very understanding of what she was going through but can they be together of the past haunting Clara this book was emotional and as once said you have to learn to love yourself before letting someone else love you .... can Dominic and Clara find their fate back to eachother as one? read & find out ❤️🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2025
The fourth book in the "Harbor's Broken Hearts" series. This book is about Dominic and Clara, who we met in the previous books, but as secondary characters. I loved how Dominic manages to understand her, so he helps her to settle in. He watches her transform into the beautiful woman he loves, until her past comes back and things get complicated. This book is so special and sweet, the love that Dominic feels for Clara is everything that so many people hope to find and keep for a lifetime. If you like books that talk about how to overcome the traumas of the past and how to deal with them in the present but also how to live to be happy always... Then you need to read the story of Dominic and Clara.
April 20, 2025
What an emotional rollercoaster this book takes you on! The journey of Clara from commune through her adjustment to life in the outside world is interwoven with her connection with Dom. Their unexpected connection causes lots of bumps in the road.
I really enjoyed the small details of this book that are interwoven through the story. Brooke really paints a picture you can see in your mind with her words. Thank you for the ARC.
I really enjoyed the small details of this book that are interwoven through the story. Brooke really paints a picture you can see in your mind with her words. Thank you for the ARC.
April 27, 2025
ARC REVIEW 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This closed door romance isn’t what I normally would read but, I am so glad I did. I loved the character-driven suspense, especially with the found love aspect under the dire circumstances that led them together. It was a very put together story, that has me wanting to read the others in the series. Highly recommend, but always check your trigger warnings.
Thank you again for the ARC.
This closed door romance isn’t what I normally would read but, I am so glad I did. I loved the character-driven suspense, especially with the found love aspect under the dire circumstances that led them together. It was a very put together story, that has me wanting to read the others in the series. Highly recommend, but always check your trigger warnings.
Thank you again for the ARC.
May 2, 2025
Broken Promises was an emotional rollercoaster that dives deep into love, regret, healing, and redemption. The characters feel real, and I loved how the escape, messiness of past mistakes, and the slow, painful journey of rebuilding trust was portrayed 💜
Dominic and Clara were well written and their romance is a slow-burn that was beautifully written, with just enough tension to keep me flipping pages 🩵
Dominic and Clara were well written and their romance is a slow-burn that was beautifully written, with just enough tension to keep me flipping pages 🩵
April 19, 2025
will likely attract readers of literary fiction and character-driven suspense, particularly those drawn to stories of personal redemption and social justice. Its focus on marginalized voices and ethical dilemmas (e.g., anonymity vs. connection) aligns with trends in contemporary fiction. The restrained romantic tension and absence of overt sensationalism make it suitable for readers who prefer subdued, introspective narratives over fast-paced plots.
April 25, 2025
This is a slow burn, closed door romance with a unique storyline. Clara has fled from the religious commune for a new life and when she arrives at the safe house, she feels the instant connection to Dominic who went through a similar experience six years previously l.
The characters go through a few numbs and a lot of personal growth before they reach their HEA. It is a refreshing change from some of the typical books I read.
The characters go through a few numbs and a lot of personal growth before they reach their HEA. It is a refreshing change from some of the typical books I read.
April 26, 2025
This a heartwarming story about second chances, found family, grumpy x sunshine and living with trauma and adversity. I adored this book! The characters were well written and in such a way that you develop relationships with them - feel what they feel. This is a read that hooks you from the start and keeps you hooked to the end. LOVED!
April 26, 2025
It was a sweet story, definitely a closed door romance. Following Clara and Dominic as they grow closer and then grow apart as Clara grows as a person then grow into love again was a great love story. I’d definitely recommend this story.
April 17, 2025
Clara and Dominic’s story definitely drew me in. The setting of a safe house for people who have escaped from religious communes was new to me, but it gave a very different perspective of found love under very trying circumstances. Although they fell quickly, their pasts broke their relationship apart, but their love for each other was too much to keep them apart. I really loved all the secondary characters in the story as well, from Tristan the friendly cop, and Lauren who offers Clara a place to stay, to the sweet Brooks family and darling Blake. A very sweet and easy to read romance
April 19, 2025
From the moment I started Broken Promises I couldn’t put it down. It was a nice clean read well written and kept me wanting more. The story line was great I look forward to more from this series.
May 1, 2025
Dominic and Clara share a powerful connection rooted in their shared trauma from a sheltered, controlling past. Their relationship grows quickly, but Dominic’s emotional walls and hidden pain create distance between them. Clara’s gentle strength and a surprise opportunity force them both to grow but separately and together. With emotional twists and tender moments, Broken Promises is a heartfelt story about healing, second chances, and choosing love despite fear.
The two grow close fast, their bond built on shared pain and an unspoken understanding. But intimacy doesn't come easy, especially for Dominic. Every time they are near that vulnerable space, he pulls away, leaving Clara confused and craving answers. Can she truly break through the walls he has built? And will Dominic ever believe he deserves the kind of love she offers?
Clara is a beam of light. She’s gentle, kind, and determined. Watching her step into the world, finding work she loves, and embrace opportunities was so heartwarming. Meanwhile, Dominic wrestles with the shadows of his past, and it is only during their time apart from that he begins to understand just how much Clara means to him.
Then came the twist I did not see coming. It shook everything and broke my heart for Clara. That moment of separation, though painful, felt necessary. Both needed space to grow into the versions of themselves that could truly meet each other halfway.
The two grow close fast, their bond built on shared pain and an unspoken understanding. But intimacy doesn't come easy, especially for Dominic. Every time they are near that vulnerable space, he pulls away, leaving Clara confused and craving answers. Can she truly break through the walls he has built? And will Dominic ever believe he deserves the kind of love she offers?
Clara is a beam of light. She’s gentle, kind, and determined. Watching her step into the world, finding work she loves, and embrace opportunities was so heartwarming. Meanwhile, Dominic wrestles with the shadows of his past, and it is only during their time apart from that he begins to understand just how much Clara means to him.
Then came the twist I did not see coming. It shook everything and broke my heart for Clara. That moment of separation, though painful, felt necessary. Both needed space to grow into the versions of themselves that could truly meet each other halfway.
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