Tragically Broken

by N.J. Danner

Tragedy destroyed Dr. Alex Kohen’s life and this is her one chance to escape her nightmares and possibly find love…

Dr. Alex Kohen has made her career her life ever since everything else in her life was tragically taken from her, until the death of a patient brings Kellen Rhion, the sexy elusive bachelor, into her life. Can she leave her past behind, forgive herself and move forward with Kellen or will she be stuck in her nightmares forever?
Alex Kohen created her new life in Chicago after a tragic accident robbed her of everything that was important leaving her broken. She dedicated her lonely life to her career as a physician, that is until she met Kellen Rhion the rich, demanding playboy and CEO of Rhion Construction. Kellen is plagued by his own personal tragedy with the death of his grandfather but at the same time is enamored by his grandfather’s beautiful, compassionate doctor. Alex tries to avoid and deny the attraction but Kellen pursues her, never giving up. They must fight the challenges of their busy careers and Kellen celebrity lifestyle that almost rips them apart. Alex feels like she is a shell of person with nothing to give and too much emotional baggage to develop a relationship, afraid of the secrets that continue to haunt her and afraid to have a future. Kellen sees her for who she really is and is finally able to break down Alex’s walls. However, after Kellen’s supposed betrayal and brush with death can Alex really trust him with her heart and can Kellen accept that she will always, in a way, be broken?

Genres: Romance

392 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 21, 2014

Reviews

[Kelli C · Rating 2 out of 5]

*ARC provided in exchange for honest review*

2.5 - 2.75 Stars

This is my first book by N.J. Danner and while I will say that the writing was really good, I just could not get 100% into this.

Quick Summary: Dr. Alexi Kohen is a top rated Neurologist. She works hard and constantly as it is her only escape from her past trauma. Kellen Rhion is a famous, beautiful bachelor whose dying grandfather puts him in direct contact with Dr. Kohen. They meet, they have chemistry and they engage in the "I want you" but No...I cant game...until Kellen's persistance is too much for Lexi to handle!

What I liked: I was grateful for two likeable characters. Lexi is a strong smart woman whose success is her own. She acknowledges her past and knows her own heartbreak. As for Kellen, he does not have a bad bone in his body...he is smart, successful, and beautiful inside and out.

So What is the problem..sounds amazing right? Well, I found the read to be a bit tedious. It was repetitive in the overall chase. Kellen wanted Lexi and he made 1000 efforts, all which she said NO! I wanted to yell, hey Pick me!! But no, he kept up the chase, kept showing up, kept pushing...and BAM, Meet my Boyfried Kellen! After that, i felt as if the story was NORMAL in that two characters talked, texted, met for lunch or dinner, and had sex...LOTS of SEX! Kinda like and everyday happy couple in real life.

Overall, the story wasnt as "tragically broken" as I was expecting. This isnt necessarily a bad thing, I was just expecting more. There isnt cheating, or lies...not even miscommunication. There is minor drama and angst and decent heat. The overall story for Kellen and Lexi was just a simple love story start to finish...Nothing wrong with that, just not enough for my dark mind!!!

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good debut novel which I read in one sitting.

After tragedy strikes Dr. Alexi Kohen moves away for a fresh start. To survive the hurt and pain she throws everything into being a great doctor. Five years after her heart broke fate intervenes and brings CEO Kellen Rhion into her life. Although there is chemistry between them Alex tries to keep distance between her and Kellen. However Kellen has other ideas.

Really good romantic story with some surprises thrown in. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

[Rose Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

****** I have received this ARC for my honest review**********

This is a debut novel for NJ Danner. When I read the blurb on this novel I couldn’t wait to read it. The story and characters were amazing. I loved that both characters had equal dominance. It wasn’t just a damsel in distress and a shining white knight riding in to save her.

The way that NJ Danner portrayed Alex and Kellen was amazing. Alex has a very strong personality and just needed the right person to bring the softness back to the surface. Kellen was patient with Alex in every sense of the word. I like how he understood what she needed even when she didn’t. I’m glad that Alex understood to take what Kellen did for her and enjoyed how it made her feel.

Being a recent widow myself this story touched my heart in many ways. Not many people can understand the loss one feels when you lose your soul mate. You plunge yourself into your work, kids and everyone else problems. This leaves the loss you feel buried deep down in a hole. I am not ready myself to open that hole but I hope someday that I will be ready like Dr. Alex Kohen and to be loved again.

Dr. Alex Kohen was the head of the best NEURO ICU unit in all of Chicago. Alex is a reclusive by choice since the unimaginable loss that she had 5 years ago.

Kellen Rhion is the Grandson of a patient that passed away in the care of Dr. Alex Kohen. He is the CEO of Rhion construction and a playboy.

****Must add to your To Be Read (TBR) list of books****

[Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Alexi Kohen seemed to have stopped loving after a tragedy claimed her husband's life. When she moved on to another place, she was determined to start anew and be the doctor who could save lives, despite the niggling secrets she'd been hiding. Then she met Kellen Rhion, the famous bachelor, who needed assistance for his ailing grandfather. Circumstances led them to one another, although Dr. Alex or Lexi had always found excuses to stay away from Kellen.

But love seemed to have a life of its own. Soon, Lexi couldn't contain her feelings anymore, and the wall she had put up around her slowly crumbled. But when she had finally found the courage to take the leap, one of her patients died under her watch. A surge of emotions encompassed her, which left her more wary of her feelings towards Kellen.

I enjoyed this tragically endearing story between Lexi and Kellen, two broken souls on the mend. The characters spoke to me with their emotions and pent-up feelings. The drama packs quite a punch, leaving me teary-eyed for a moment or two. I felt the author's touch with the way she developed her characters. I found Alexi and Kellen very easy to like and love, as well as Gia and Patsy. The scenes definitely touched my heart. It made me think about life, death, taking second chances, forgiveness, and moving forward instead of moving on. Great job, NJ Danner!

[Ilana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Tragically Broken
Author: NJ Danner
Publisher/Year: NJ Danner 4/21/14
Length: 335
Overview

Tragedy destroyed Dr. Alex Kohen’s life and this is her one chance to escape her nightmares and possibly find love…

Dr. Alex Kohen has made her career her life ever since everything else in her life was tragically taken from her, until the death of a patient brings Kellen Rhion, the sexy elusive bachelor, into her life. Can she leave her past behind, forgive herself and move forward with Kellen or will she be stuck in her nightmares forever?
Alex Kohen created her new life in Chicago after a tragic accident robbed her everything that was important leaving her broken. She dedicated her lonely life to her career as a physician, that is until she met Kellen Rhion the rich, demanding playboy and CEO of Rhion Construction. Kellen is plagued by his own personal tragedy with the death of his grandfather but at the same time is enamored by his grandfather’s beautiful, compassionate doctor. Alex tries to avoid and deny the attraction but Kellen pursues her, never giving up. They must fight the challenges of their busy careers and Kellen celebrity lifestyle that almost rips them apart. Alex feels like she is a shell of person with nothing to give and too much emotional baggage to develop a relationship, afraid of the secrets that continue to haunt her and afraid to have a future. Kellen sees her for who she really is and is finally able to break down Alex’s walls. However, after Kellen’s supposed betrayal and brush with death can Alex really trust him with her heart and can Kellen accept that she will always, in a way, be broken?

My Thoughts

So, I was offered an ARR (while not really Advance) via Goodreads, and before i read it, I made the mistake of reading some of the reviews from other readers. While i definitely value other's opinions, i find that mine don't always follow suit, and therefore i'm stuck with expectations (good or bad) on a book. Suffice it to say, while the first review i read was less than stellar, I'd say that this book delivered better than that.

What we have here is a really sweet story about 2 broken people, clearly one more so than the other, each with their walls, focusing more on life than on themselves. Alex, she's thrown herself into her job since the death of her husband 5 years prior, and as a result, she's become the top in her field in the country. The world is hers to take. It's when her world collides with that of Kellan, when his grandfather is her patient that her world then combusts.

On first impression, she hates him - thinks that he's pompous and has an ego the size of Texas, yet there's a spark, a chemistry that draws her to him, aside from his good looks. From what we all know in stories like this, it's not a matter of 'if' they'll get together, it's really more so when Kellan will be able to break down Alex's walls. What's nice about how this story is written is that it's over time, we get the clear picture that Alex is uncertain, and that Kellan's persistent, but it's not a matter of just a handful of days - weeks go by with little progress.

Once that curve is rounded, we get into the heat and passion between these 2. It's really intense in the sense that they want each other - all the time. The minor fault that i'll have in the writing here though is that while it was intense, i feel like it was lacking something that I can't quite put my finger on. Maybe it's the fact that it's more of a romantic love than a dominant one, which is what i've been reading a lot of - i don't know. It's not to say that it wasn't enjoyable - don't take it that way, i just feel like personally, it was 'sweet' instead of 'HOT'.

Regardless, we spend most of the story trying to get the bits of the background on what makes Alex into what she is and why she can't open up to Kellan, yet you have to assume that there's something not so perfect about Kellan, and it's not until the latter chapters that we get a glimpse of that. Aside from a stalker, some near death experiences, and a lot of fear of being loved again, there's a sweet romance story underneath it all.

Sooo...where i'm netting out i guess is that it was a nice story - maybe could have been a bit deeper, but then again, that's not really the purpose of the genre. Enjoy!

[TLBC · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. I'm going to rate this 4 solid stars. There were many typos and some errors but this is the authors debut novel and I commend her on this story. It takes a lot of time, heart and commitment to publish a book for everyone to read. The cover of this book is perfect for what the book was about. I'll give you a brief synopsis of the book and then tell you my thoughts.

Dr. Alex Kohen has been grieving for five years after a tragedy took her husbands life. Her life consists of her career, she has distanced herself from her family and friends and moved to Chicago away from it all.

Kellen Rhion enters Alex's life while his grandfather is under her care. Both taken by the other; Alex is determined to keep her distance but Kellen won't take no for an answer.

Excuse after excuse keeps Kellen from taking Alex out until he accidentally runs into her. He finally convinces her to take the leap and spend some time with him. But will her past and emotional baggage be too much for him to handle? And will she be able to move forward without the guilt of feeling like she's betraying her (dead) husband? Kellen is determined to get through Alex's walls so she can start living again.


I think I've said in a previous review that trying to start over loving someone or moving on after the death of your supposed soul mate has to probably be one of toughest things to overcome without feeling guilt towards your past love. And the way her husband died left her with so much hurt and guilt she didn't want to give herself the chance or open herself up to love again. I think the author portrayed this well in the book but I also thought it was a bit repetitive. After a while I got that she had nightmares and was hurt by the accident and with a little editing I think some of the repetition could be cut. In fact I felt that way about the book in general, it was well written, well thought out but just a bit long and repetitive. With that said it didn't really deter me much on my rating because I could feel the compassion and strength of both these characters. It's kind of refreshing to read about a genuinely sweet guy. Yes, I love the controlling bad boys in books too, but Kellen was the perfect boyfriend and yeah he made some mistakes and should have told her things earlier in the relationship but it wasn't intentional and he just wanted what was best for Alex. Another thing I really liked is that Kellen let Alex take control without getting all weirded out by it, he wasn't intimidated by her success and career. They were more like equals and respected each other taking control when it suited them. ;)

Alex was broken and Kellen tried to help put the pieces or her heart back together, but when circumstances arise Kellen doesn't know if Alex's heart will ever be repaired or she will ever be able to be with him. I don't want to get into too much more without spoiling the book. The emotional level is high but the angst is pretty low and there are definitely some steamy parts. Also I love a book with good secondary characters and this book doesn't disappoint. Congratulations on N.J. Danner's debut novel!

http://triciaciak.blogspot.com/

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

** Given an ARC copy for my honest review **

I really enjoyed this book and the male lead’s personality reminded me so much of my hubby that it felt all too familiar. Alex is a neurosurgeon with a tragic past and Kellen is a wealthy bachelor who has nearly lost all hope of finding Love. After his grandfather is injured in a skydiving accident Kellen meets Alex who has been assigned to the care of his grandfather, almost immediately there is an attraction between the two. Not looking for a relationship Alex refuses Kellen’s advances but this bachelor is not taking no for an answer.

I really enjoyed seeing their relationship blossom and although Kellen is rich and Alex is a doctor they are both really down to earth which is what I liked, their interactions were natural and realistic. I enjoyed their banter as it reminded me so much of my own relationship. I was pleasantly surprised that the storyline wasn't completely obvious and I like to work a little to figure things out.

Kellen was hot, kind, caring and totally believable. Alex was a lovely person who was hard-working and unpretentious. I was rooting for her the whole way, she deserved to be happy and I was glad she found Kellen. Is that not a sign of a good book when you care about the characters? Okay constructive criticism here it comes, still a lot of editing to do but I seriously did not care, some of the speech in terms of what people said seemed a little awkward and forced at times, maybe due to lack of time and trying to get the point across. However I will say again I wasn't bothered, I read this book to review it not mark it for an English Lit exam. If it was not a good story then such grammatical matters would have been at the forefront of my mind and detracted unnecessarily from the story. But in a world of self-publishing which has opened the flood gates to more reading material, I will say that although this was not a masterpiece I still enjoyed it and appreciated it for what it was. I would definitely read this again snuggled up on the sofa, preferably on a Sunday afternoon drinking hot chocolate. I was endeared to both characters and would definitely read another book from this author.

[Sheri Hursh · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

After reading the description of the story I had high hopes that I would thoroughly enjoy this book. Sadly, it never quite lived up to those although there were elements that were enjoyable.

My biggest struggle with the book were the combination of the pacing (slooooowwwwwwwww) and the repetitiveness of scenes and descriptions. We read a lot of detail about the naps, showers and meals that Alex took or didn't really eat - but it felt like filler because those events often led to nothing that advanced the story. It's one thing for events like that to occur as part of a setting for an event that unfolds driving the story - but instead it felt more like we were being given a journal of Alex's daily habits. I very much liked Kellen and he has the potential to be a great book boyfriend - but he was just a little too good to be true for me. It was clear early on what the angst we were no doubt headed toward would stem from and the predictability of it was a bit frustrating. Alex and Kellen were both too smart and too mature to fall into such an easily avoidable misunderstanding. So in the end it felt like I read through an entire book waiting for something to happen - and hoping it would be something more significant than what it actually was.

In general the writing is solid but I found it difficult to find a good flow. The overuse of pointing out what the characters were thinking was a problem. I much prefer dialogue to provide the thoughts of the characters whenever possible and at times I feel the writer just has to trust us enough to follow along. However, this was a minor nuisance and easily corrected with a good editor.

In the end this just didn't work for me but I applaud the author for the effort and wish her continued success.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex and Kellen story is emotional, sad, heart breaking BUT LOVING ! The way these to individual's met was FATE ! Two people come together by a tragedy when they didn't even know each other but to have it grow into a passionate loving romance was exciting and thrilling at the same time. Alexi has a past that maker her throw herself into her job to forget her past, block it out and just try and get by every day by just surviving day by day. Kellen really never knew what he was missing in life because he was also surviving the same way day by day just working and getting through life but it was not full filling....he was missing love and true companionship.

When Kellen shows Alex she is worth love, that she is not broken that they both need to put the past in the past and both move forward in life together that they can both have happiness will she let him in. After loosing her family is she ready to let Kellen into her heart ?

Lexi's family sees the difference in her right away from just being with Kellen for a few month...she was living again and not just surviving. Kellen's family also notices the changes in him too....he never brought a girl home to meet the family !!

But will Alex be able to let go of the past and move on or will she continue to throw herself into her job, her patients and not herself. Will Kellen be able to break her...but in a positive way ??

I couldn't put this book down and neither will you !! This was well written and was written in depth so you could get the full story and feelings of the characters !! I was truly at 5 !!

[Carra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tragically Broken is a great first novel by NJ Danner. It's a tale of finding love after great loss, and the impact that loss can have on discovering love again. The story flowed well, and had a plot that kept my interest.

Alex, the female lead, did at times frustrate me. Yes, I know she suffered through a horrible loss that affected her in many ways, but to me five years is an excessively long time to grieve (and if Kellen hadn't have come along, who knows how long that time would have become). Kellen on the other hand was simply wonderful. The perfect definition of a book boyfriend, he is caring, sweet, devoted while also strong, powerful and protective.

There was a lot of back and forth when it came to Alex giving in to start a relationship with Kellen, and that's where her attitude started to frustrate me a bit. It felt like the same issues were being brought up, and she kept slipping back into her same habits to "protect" herself, which actually made her seem a little weak to me.

But Kellen was always there, and he really is the one who made this story work. And when the two of them were together, their intimate scenes were blazing hot.

I did feel like the complication with Charlotte toward the end was unnecessary since the other major event that transpired along with that was really enough of a drama point, but otherwise the overall story was enjoyable.

3.5 stars for Tragically Broken, and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.

[Margaux Espinosa · Rating 2 out of 5]

*Received copy from author in return for honest review*

I want to be fair while reviewing this book, I didn't really enjoy it that much because it was too slow paced for me, that being said, it was very well written and had a good story line. It had drama, excitement, a bit of mystery, sexiness, and allure but it just wasn't for me.

The characters were very well written, had depth and personality. I got to know them fairly quick and liked them all very much. Alex, is a very intelligent, strong, independent woman, with a boat load of baggage, and is scared to love again or let anyone in really. She is beautiful inside and out and I loved her instantly, and continued to love her more throughout all of the things she had to go through and overcome. Kellen is a smart, strong, wealthy man who knows what he wants and goes for it, he doesn't take no for an answer and has patients to wait to get the answer he wants. He is a kind, passionate, caring and loving man, he compliments Alex perfectly! Gia is my favorite, even though she is a supporting character in this story she is amazing, strong, bubbly, and funny! She is the perfect amount of comic relief.

SO....It was a great book, a bit slow for me, but a great story about love, loss, and overcoming ones' past. If you don't mind a slower paced book then I absolutely recommend this book as a must read story!

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review.**
This is the first book from NJ that I have read and I must say I loved it!!
Sometimes you will laugh and sometimes you will get your eyes moist because this is an emotional story.

Alex Kohen’s heart has been broken since she lost her husband in a car accident will she ever find true love again or is she too damaged as she thinks she is?

She uses her job as top rated Neurologist to escape from her own feelings, but what happens when fate brings her Kellen Rhion a rich socialite – a celebrity bachelor whose grandfather in now in her care after his skydiving accident.

Kellen is also the power of attorney for his grandfather and he demands to meet the head of Neurology immediately, after she explains that his grandfather has no chance of full recovery Kellen needs to grand his grandfather’s wishes to let him go.

But what was this strange attraction between those two? One thing is for sure Alex is not planning to get involved with family of her lost patient but Kellen is not planning to give up on her.

So will fate bring them together?

From the moment I started to read I could not stop reading, it has everything in the story, secrets, betrayal, trust and will love mend her broken heart.

[Shirley Verdin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tragically Broken is the best description for this book! Alexi (or Alex or Lexi, whichever you prefer) is tragically broken from her past. Its not until the end you are fully aware of the accident that caused this much tragedy in her life. She suffered this for 5 years making her put aside her feelings and dive straight into her work to avoid further depression. As the saying goes, Everything Happens for a Reason, is really what her story is about. It took a certain patient to enter her care, which ended up changing her life forever. Theo was an elderly man who lived his life to the fullest and a turn for the worst made her come in contact with his grandson, Kellan. This man Kellan changed her life. Eventually she gained the confidence she needed to fully open up her past and deal with it. Certain events take place where she feels her heart is again broken but Kellan is her strength and she comes to realize that. Alex and Kellan have a wonderful, down to earth, relationship that is true to life. I was easily lost in this story and definitely enjoyed reading every bit of it! I really hope this story continues!

[Kerri Lightle · Rating 4 out of 5]

wow is all I can say * wiping the last of the tears from my face*

now I know most of the people out there don't believe in love at first site but really its there and if you've lucky enough to find it the way Alex and Kellan did you would believe too.

its amazing how 2 people can be brought together. Kellan at the worse time meets the love of his life as he follows through with the wishes of his late grandfather. when Alex who normally wouldn't personally get this close she cant help but let her guard down. no matter how hard Alex tries to fight the attraction and the feeling of guild of her own tragic pass she lets Kellan in.

this story even with its amount of sadness and dread of the past coming back to haunt us it shows with the right person no matter how broken you are there is some one out there for you to love and help you heal. I hope theres more to their story as im hooked and hope to see them move forward and maybe even see more interaction with the families but then only the author knows *winks*

this is truly a full out love story * yes hot sex too* but you would be missing something great if you pass it up!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*

Dr. Alex Kohen (Lexi) has become a workaholic after tragedy hits her world. She's lonely but knows she can't, emotionally, get involved with anyone right now. Kellen Rhion is an extremely sexy and wealthy businessman. He also happens to be the grandson of Dr. Kohen's newest patient. They have an instant attraction to each other. Alex tries hard to resist Kellen's advances but she can't help what she's starting to feel.

They go through so much before they can finally be happy together. Kellen basically has women throwing themselves at him, for his money and because he's freakin hot! Alex has those emotional scars she may not be able to let go of.

I was SO into this book! I loved both characters and wanted to see them work out their problems together. This was N.J. Danner's debut novel! And this book was a perfect way to start her writing career! I hope to read lots more by her.

4 'it's tragic' Stars!

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to have this given to me for an honest review. This book is a beautiful read about second chances and finding love where you least expect it. Alex is a lost soul just existing trying to forget the tragedy in her life. She works at a hospital as a doctor caring for the very sick. Alex is very caring and compassionate in her work and offers support to a relative who tragically loses his grandfather. Alex feels strangely drawn to him and wants to comfort him. She pays her respects at the funeral and bumps into him again. Kellen cannot repay Alex for the care and compassion she had shown him and he also can't stop thinking about her. He chases her over several weeks to try and persuade her to go out with him, she declines but he is very persistent. Can Kellen be Alexis salvation and help mend her broken heart. A beautiful read that will touch your heart and make you feel what the characters feel, it takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. It's funny, romantic, gut wrenching tear jerker. I hope we hear more from this author.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an emotional and enjoyable read for me. The book has good length however pace was slow at times – I almost felt like I was reading a series condensed into one big book. This story brings us the emotional aspect of grief, guilt, and loss. It did a very good job at describing how a person can be so overwhelmed with grief and guilt that they stopped enjoying life.

This story takes place roughly 5 years after the tragic death of Alex’s husband and how that tragedy had completely changed her life. She moved to a different city and became a workaholic; she processes hurt by escaping versus talking about it. The author did a great job is building the relationship between Kellen and Alex. The attraction between the two was obvious though Alex was hesitant in starting a relationship at the beginning. All in all, I really liked the book although it could use some better editing.

**Received a complimentary copy in exchange for honest review**

[DiAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. Tragically Broken tells the story of two broken people who find true love where they least expect it. Kellen Rhion meets Dr. Alex Cohen, who is his grandfather's doctor, in the hospital after an life-threatening accident. Alex is not what Kellen expected including that she is a female - not a male. The author does an outstanding job with the character development of Alex & Kellen and includes a wonderful group of secondary characters. The pacing is perfect and the careful layering of the storyline is excellent. The twist of scary events in the story add so much and keep the reader not wanting to put this story down. I look forward to more books by the author and would definitely recommend this story to my friends.

[Tina Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. This was about two broken people. Alex is a neuro doctor and thought she can never love again. She moved to Chicago to start over and became a workaholic and lived her life just working crazy hours. She lived her life in the hospital. Until one of her patient came in from head injury. His grandson Kellen who appears to be arrogant. Kellon is a billionaire business man who runs an architect company and will take no for an answer. Alex is trying to start over and not looking for relationship. She lost her husband and feels she doesn't deserve to love again. This story Keeps you going. Loved it. Loved all the characters especially Alex two friends Gia and Patsy.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm rating this 4.5 due to a lot of typos and some grammar errors.
I found myself captivated by the character of Alexi. She is a brilliant brain surgeon heading up the top neuro-ICU.

While working on an elderly man who had a sky diving accident she meets his POA, his nephew Kellen. Kellen is used to getting what he wants and he wants Alexi. Even with the attraction Alex fights it. She has a intense reason why shes guarding her heart and the reason once revealed will pull your heartstrings.

I really loved the family dynamic in Kellen's family along with their easy acceptance of Alex.
Kellen is a women's fantasy. He's sexy, compassionate, patient and protective. The author had me hooked from start to finish. I'm looking forward to more from her in the future.

[Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it. I'm a complete sucker for any medical jargon. It only made the story that much better for me! It is a sad and yet all too realistic story. Love and loss, the suffering one goes through when it happens. Time does have a way of healing. Unfortunately life isn't the same for everyone. One person may take years. The next person may not really care. Some medicate themselves in different ways like drugs, alcohol, working so there is no time to think. Some are just happy to move on to the next. Her pain was something that I have seen and heard about before. It brings up the age old question...is it really better to have loved and lost?

[Allyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

~I received this for free for my honest review thru the Author~ I love how N.J. Danner writes. You feel like your there with the characters. I loved this beautiful story. It was a sad but sweet story about loss, hope, life & happiness. If you enjoy reading books with fun loving romance & humor full of heart check this book out you wont regret it! Thanks again for letting me read & review. :)

[Catherine Coffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this book. I laughed, cried and got mad. The story line was great. I couldn't put the book down, I wanted to know Alex's story behind why she was broken. I loved how Kellan just wanted her to be happy and not push her till she was ready. I have found a new favorite author and can't wait for more books.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

A story about loss, survival, fate, perseverance, hope, love and happiness. Alex & Kellen become an incredible couple, despite the many road blocks they encountered. Their journey is inspiring and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Would definitely recommend!

[Kelly Hitchcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got this as a ARC for an honest review. When I started this book I wasn't sure if I would like it but once I really got into the story I loved it. I would not have changed a thing about this book. It is a must read.

[tyrianpurple · Rating 3 out of 5]

a bit skimming the 50% end.
review to come.

ARR #60 given by the author via GR's Fifty Shades Support Group, in exchange of honest review.

"Was it possible for one person to have more than one soul mate? Could his place be taken by someone else, just like that?"

Alexi Josephine Kohen.
Kellen Rhion.

Enjoyment quantity :: 2 stars
Literature quality :: 3 stars

A contemporary romance. A bit dark. A doctor. An famous architect. Papparazi. A second chance in love. MC mid thirties. A busy neuro ICU. Blonde Irishman! Character death. Stalker. Element of surprise. Mild dominatrix. HEA. 3rd POV. Standalone.

Gramatical error. Like replacing couple words with another phrase, but the former words havent fully erased yet. One or two words remain. Also the placing of aposthrope and comma, are missing in several cases. Actually i highlight all the error that i can find.

The way the author writes, for me are too formal, the word choice is too proper.

The book is using 3rd POV know it all. But sometimes, it lapses from one head to another during conversation. This kind POV is not the one i prefer. I hate feeling detached from the character.

But, i want to praise the detail at doctor job day to day job. I really felt the profesional atmosphere through the words. The author really put an effort to explore the detail and put it to descript the job more believable.

All the blurbs could be found as part of Chapter 1 storyline. So, we got no clue as for the rest of it. It is good, like a pandora box. But in the other side, a good blurb is the one that describe the whole story, highlighting the core problem, and arousing the curiosity of the ending.

This one a bit TMI, like she gave him a hint when where how to call her. Yeah, when he is still mourning.
"I called you from my cell phone. Please feel free to call me if I can help you in any way. I’ve another twenty-four hours on my shift and will be around if you need me.”

I know that the circumstance where they meet the first time would be very crucial for further development of their relationship. But, i couldnt help to find it disturbing. I dont know, at first i was fine and totally feeling okay. Then i had this weird feeling in my chest, how could someone feel a flutter in belly and lust when they are in the very very sad condition. It just not right. I would feel fine if the story not decribing Kellen as a very mourning grandson. Since he is, how could he feel like that but steal a lot glance to the pretty doctor as well. Hmm..

“I’d be willing to carry all of your baggage if you’d let me.”

Impersonal. Detach. The book is like storyline telling but detached from all the element inside it. Yeah the storyline is flowing, but i can not grasp the atmosphere of a scene.

But i must give a thumbs up for Kellen. Think he is one of those insanely rich people that fully embrace and use his richness in daily life. Not showing off, rather like stating the fact. Yes, i am rich, so i am going to spend all damn money i could for wooing my woman. And it melted meeeeee. Who not want a couple dozen roses, a caterer come to u when u have no time to lunch, and a driver plus the car to escort you home making sure u are safe and sound on your way. Yup! Thats Kellen Rhion!

"..what was worse – throwing your heart out there, and getting hurt, as Kellen had, or keeping your heart closed and being alone as she had. What was the lesser of the two evils?"

The thing that i appreciate about this book is the fact that the story is not all about the MC relationship. Their day to day activities are detailed somehow, but still detached and unemotional. Like stating a news.

Tough this book somewhat plain and had some issue that i dont usually enjoy in a book, i didnt feel annoyed during reading it and didnt feel an urge to DNFing it out of boredness.

Too polite to each other, and this issue makes me craaaazy. Ugggh.

" The guilt that someone other than her dead husband was taking a hold of her heart, the guilt that she was letting that happened and the guilt that she felt she was betraying her wedding vows to her husband."

A lot of sudden change of topic that made me wtf?, like this one convo,
"Trust me Alex, I’m in no way giving you the brush off, in fact,” he leaned in to whisper in her ear, “the only thing I want to do is turn you on.” >> right? Wtf?

The excitement starts after 30%. I love how they declare bf-gf not through a confession or a proposal, but by examining that their relationship already move to the next level. This is how all adult relationsholip should be.

" He was the tonic to her wound. "

Nina proposing is soooo cute.
“I wiwl need to twalk to him and make him ask ye to mawry him because I want you as my Auntie Awex.”

The progression of story is so so so slow.
The revelation chapters are quite good tough.
The proposal.. melt me.


Overall,

# i honestly cant say that i enjoy ALL this book. Parts of it, yes, i thoroughly enjoy it. Like the few last chappies. The idea of storyline is actually good. But the real slow progessing, tough it might be in purpose to take as close as real relationship flow, is bored me. Even, i read the last 50% in skimming mode.

# but in the other side, the details and all informations of Neuro medical aspect, are impressed me. It wrote in such a profesional detail but in the same time try to be familiar with a common people knowledge.

# i love how complete, the characterization of Alex and Kellen. However, the storyline overpower their great character. Morelike dampening it.




“I love you. And in loving you I don’t want you to not have all that you dream of in life.”

[Tricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

*received a copy for an honest review*

Tragically broken tells the story of Alex and Kellen who meet when Alex, who is a doctor, and head of Neuro-ICU, is looking after Kellen's Grandfather after he suffers a serious head injury. Sadly his Grandfather passes away and against her own strict rules of not getting attached to patients and their families, Alex ends up comforting Kellen through his loss. kellen starts to pursue Alex in a romantic way, however Alex has had heartache in her own life after losing her beloved Max, her husband and soul mate and she is reluctant to fall for him and end up broken hearted all over again, but Kellen is persistent and Alex can't help but fall for his charms.

**** “I won’t take no for an answer Alex. I’ll be in touch.” ****

It's not long before Alex and Kellen finally come together, although not fully to begin with, and Alex somehow feels disloyal to her dead husband Max. The story plays out in a very laid back, natural way and doesn't feel forced or rushed. Of course she would feel disloyal and I like that this book covers that as it is a natural part of the grieving process.

**** Was it possible for one person to have more than one soul mate? Her husband had been hers. Could his place be taken by someone else, just like that? ****

kellen isn't my kind of book hero, as I like them a little rough around the edges, but he is very sweet and caring to Alex and isn't scared to show it. Alex is a likeable heroine who also has a kind heart and I think she truly deserved the love of a man like Kellen. Other characters were also well written into the story, especially Gia, who worked alongside Alex and was also a very good friend and Patsy, her childhood friend.

To sum up...

There were a lot of grammatical errors and typos, but this may be due to the fact this was given in exchange for an honest review and maybe not the edited version.? One of the other things that did tend to grate a little was how the story went over the same thing too much which made the story drag too long. Would I recommend this book? The answer is yes, because although it did have its fIaws and I have read better, I have read much worse and what I enjoy and the next person is entirely different. I would give this 3 stars and say if you like a good love story with a tender, loving hero then this is the book for you.

[Luisa Rivas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like to read author's first efforts because I get the chance to read their raw efforts before they get to refine their craft. In this case, the author has a great story and characters, and a lot of potential. Alex Kohen had a very tragic loss that left her broken. In order to deal with her loss, she inmerses in her work to the extent she doesn't have a life outside the hospital. Cue in Kellen Rhion, whose grandfather is dying in Alex's ward. They meet, they like, but Alex doesn't do relations, so Kellen has to work hard to get her to go out with him. I liked that Alex is open, friendly, and kind, even if she is retracted on the love front. I liked that Kellen is very considerate, intuitive and won't take no for an answer. Both filled each other's needs, and in particular, Kellen started to heal and fill the hole in Alex's heart. I loved the secondary characters, particularly Gia, who is Puertorrican like me, and loved that she was portrayed correctly, with no stereotypical mistakes. What I find that needed improvement in this book: it was too long and winding. The sex scenes too numerous and detailed. My impression was that the book was romantic and too many sex scenes took away from the romanticism, taking it more into the erotica genre. I would have preferred to have much less details in the sex scenes, because after a while they bored me, so I started skimming. Some conversations were stilted, didn't feel real. From the beginning, I sensed that Charlotte was going to be the deal breaker between Kellen and Alex. I think that plot line needed more work. Also, the book needed some serious editing. I found grammar and spelling mistakes, like places where site was used, and the correct word was sight.

Regardless, the author shows a lot of promise and as she develops her craft I'm sure she'll be writing great romances.

[Nerdy Dirty & Flirty · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
There is no blueprint for recovery….
Dr. Alex Kohen is an expert in her field. Heading the Neuro-ICU at her Chicago hospital has her too busy, most days, to worry about the loneliness in her life. She is still grieving and pulling away from family and friends had been her way of coping. When she meets Kellen Rhion, a wealthy businessman who just happens to be handsome and charming, she starts to think there may be more to life than the white walls of ICU. Kellen is attracted to the compassionate and successful doctor so the pursuit is on. Their romance is sweet, poignant and not drama-free as they fight obstacles in the present as well as the past.
I enjoyed this story which matched up two individuals with a lot in common. Both are successful in their chosen fields but also value family and friendship. I can’t help but like Alex and Kellen, they are both compassionate, and just so… nice. Alex is not an aloof specialist but an expert who understands the need for humanity along with medicine. Alex’s friend Patsy, and co-worker Gia, have her back as she struggles to work through her fears. Their mix of love, fun and kick-butt advice are just what Alex needs, and deserves. Family is also a huge part of the story and brings with it warmth as well as conflict.
I’m not sure why I didn’t love this story more than I did. Don’t get me wrong, it was a good story, well-written, with nuances and conflict to keep things interesting. There were some core issues being dealt with and they were perhaps covered a bit too much. Some different sub-plots seemed to be awkwardly included which bogged things down a bit.
Overall, a good, solid read and definitely has me looking for more from this author.

~Diane

[Dinese E. · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARR #60 given by the author via Fifty Shades Support Group, in exchange of honest review.

I was kind of on the fence about this book. Some parts I liked, some I didn't. It's about Dr. Alex Kohen, the brilliant brain surgeon, and Kellan Rhion, the architect and mogul of his own construction company.

They meet through the unfortunate accident and subsequent death of his grandfather. He is his grandfathers's POA (power-of-attorney). He takes his grandfather off of life support and Alex stands by him in the room as the priest says final rites. That moment stick with him. He begins to pursue her and I've never seen a woman fight so much against a connection that was there from the moment they meet. I do understand her trauma from the past though keeping her feeling she was damaged goods, not worth it to him, but Kellan was persistent. VERY persistent thankfully. He kind of took the lead and didn't push her but let it happen gradually and embedded himself in her life where she eventually had to say yes to him. About everything.

The sex was hot. I enjoyed their trip to Ireland almost as much as they did!

Alex finally realizes she has to let it all go and in the end she did because she couldn't be happy with Kellan until she settled her past. She didn't have to forget about the life she had with Max because she would always love him - she just had room in her heart for something who was there in the here and now.

And that was all Kellan wanted was a chance to be in the here and now with her. He wanted to wipe away every tear, every worry and make her happy.