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The Southwark Saga #4
Broken Things: Southwark Saga, Book 4
Rival. Sister. Barmaid. Whore.
Meg Henshawe has been a lot of things in her life, and few of them good. As proprietress of The Rose and Crown in Restoration Southwark, she has squandered her life catering to the comfort of workmen and thieves. Famous for her beauty as much as her reputation for rage, Meg has been coveted, abused, and discarded more than once. She is resigned to fighting alone until a passing boxer offers a helping hand.
Jake Cohen needs a job. When an injury forces him out of the ring for good, all he’s left with is a pair of smashed hands and a bad leg. Keeping the peace at The Rose is easy, especially with a boss as beautiful—and wickedly funny—as Meg Henshawe. In her way, she’s as much of an outcast as Jake, and she offers him three things he thought he’d never see a home, family, and love.
After Meg’s estranged cousin turns up and seizes the inn, Meg and Jake must work together to protect their jobs and keep The Rose running. The future is uncertain at best, and their pasts won’t stay buried. Faced with one setback after another, they must decide if what they have is worth the fight to keep it. Can broken things ever really be fixed?
Meg Henshawe has been a lot of things in her life, and few of them good. As proprietress of The Rose and Crown in Restoration Southwark, she has squandered her life catering to the comfort of workmen and thieves. Famous for her beauty as much as her reputation for rage, Meg has been coveted, abused, and discarded more than once. She is resigned to fighting alone until a passing boxer offers a helping hand.
Jake Cohen needs a job. When an injury forces him out of the ring for good, all he’s left with is a pair of smashed hands and a bad leg. Keeping the peace at The Rose is easy, especially with a boss as beautiful—and wickedly funny—as Meg Henshawe. In her way, she’s as much of an outcast as Jake, and she offers him three things he thought he’d never see a home, family, and love.
After Meg’s estranged cousin turns up and seizes the inn, Meg and Jake must work together to protect their jobs and keep The Rose running. The future is uncertain at best, and their pasts won’t stay buried. Faced with one setback after another, they must decide if what they have is worth the fight to keep it. Can broken things ever really be fixed?
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Published April 5, 2023
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About the author
Jessica Cale
21 books180 followersJessica Cale is an award-winning author, public historian, and journalist. Originally from Minnesota, she earned her BA in History and MFA in Creative and Media Writing at Swansea University in Wales, while working as a freelance contributor to BBC History Magazine. She has volunteered as a sex-education teacher for Planned Parenthood, and she brings the history of sex to a broader audience as the host of the Dirty Sexy History podcast and editor of the Dirty Sexy History blog. She has appeared as an on-camera historian on Netflix’s hit docudrama, The Lost Pirate Kingdom. Jessica is passionate about women’s social and medical history, focusing on the history of sex, contraception, drugs, and cosmetics
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 10, 2017
Jessica Cale writes fantastic Historical romances. I hesitate to say that because I know people with automatically associate it with heaving bosoms and dainty maids and Dukes, and that's fine but that is not what Broken Things or the Southwark Saga is about.
Broken Things follows Meg, a badass mother of three and innkeeper who is having a really shitty time and has been for, like, the last thirty-five years. At the start of the novel she is joined by a crazy hot new tenant and bartender Jake Cohen; a Jewish Dutchman and boxer who would like a job that isn't splintering his hands on Englishmen's faces.
This historical romance as it's rarely done; following the gritty, grinding lives of the poorest, most downtroddenest people in Yea Olde London Town. The depth of Cale's knowledge about this particularly grim era is staggering and colors the story in ways that's hard for me to describe except with this gif.
At times I was so upset by Meg's plight; how she was forced into prostitution by her dirtbag father, her inability to raise her children, that she couldn't own property and despite being beyond capable at her job, work a single shift without being groped, threatened or mocked by TOTAL SHITHEELS.
Eventually, I just turned to my boyfriend and began repeatedly poking him, shouting 'YOUR GENDER IS THE FUCKING WORST!'
At times Meg's fear of losing her looks, the only thing that ever brought her a modicum of power or authority over men was so painful I found myself turning to my boyfriend and demanding hugs (I should buy him a coffee or something). This isn't a criticism of the novel at all, it's a gift to read a book that makes you feel things so deeply.
And speaking of feeling things...
Jessica Cale is the master of the slow burn romance. By the time I was at 51% I was gagging for Meg and Jake to knock boots. When they did I was jumping around the room, punching the air. It was difficult to know what to hope for with Jake and Meg, because she's such a tigress I couldn't imagine her settling down for any man but I was beyond pumped with the ending. I would encourage any romance reader, especially if they're not usually into historical stories to give this one a try. Then read all Jess's other books especially the one with Mark Virtue who is still my baby boy.
Broken Things follows Meg, a badass mother of three and innkeeper who is having a really shitty time and has been for, like, the last thirty-five years. At the start of the novel she is joined by a crazy hot new tenant and bartender Jake Cohen; a Jewish Dutchman and boxer who would like a job that isn't splintering his hands on Englishmen's faces.
This historical romance as it's rarely done; following the gritty, grinding lives of the poorest, most downtroddenest people in Yea Olde London Town. The depth of Cale's knowledge about this particularly grim era is staggering and colors the story in ways that's hard for me to describe except with this gif.
At times I was so upset by Meg's plight; how she was forced into prostitution by her dirtbag father, her inability to raise her children, that she couldn't own property and despite being beyond capable at her job, work a single shift without being groped, threatened or mocked by TOTAL SHITHEELS.
Eventually, I just turned to my boyfriend and began repeatedly poking him, shouting 'YOUR GENDER IS THE FUCKING WORST!'
At times Meg's fear of losing her looks, the only thing that ever brought her a modicum of power or authority over men was so painful I found myself turning to my boyfriend and demanding hugs (I should buy him a coffee or something). This isn't a criticism of the novel at all, it's a gift to read a book that makes you feel things so deeply.
And speaking of feeling things...
Jessica Cale is the master of the slow burn romance. By the time I was at 51% I was gagging for Meg and Jake to knock boots. When they did I was jumping around the room, punching the air. It was difficult to know what to hope for with Jake and Meg, because she's such a tigress I couldn't imagine her settling down for any man but I was beyond pumped with the ending. I would encourage any romance reader, especially if they're not usually into historical stories to give this one a try. Then read all Jess's other books especially the one with Mark Virtue who is still my baby boy.
July 23, 2017
Captivating plot, vivid, totally lovable hero and especially heroine. Unusual characters selection, realistic historical reference, great plot and witty dialogue that is appropriate to that time period. I am as impressed as I can ever be.
This is a refreshing historical that is very well written and a real pleasure to read. I am so glad to read about 'real' everyday characters that is not a Duke, Barron, prince or duchess. I am so glad to read about imperfect foul mouth realistic characters that has a heart of gold. That they struggle with the reality of everyday life and not fussing over ribbons and the ball.
I particularly love Meg, I wanted a friend like Meg, I want to bitch about men to Meg, I want to have a beer while watching Meg bring men down to her knees and kick their @ss. Seriously, I really love to see that.
This is a refreshing historical that is very well written and a real pleasure to read. I am so glad to read about 'real' everyday characters that is not a Duke, Barron, prince or duchess. I am so glad to read about imperfect foul mouth realistic characters that has a heart of gold. That they struggle with the reality of everyday life and not fussing over ribbons and the ball.
I particularly love Meg, I wanted a friend like Meg, I want to bitch about men to Meg, I want to have a beer while watching Meg bring men down to her knees and kick their @ss. Seriously, I really love to see that.
May 2, 2017
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC provided to me by the author*
Before I read this book I had never heard of Jessica Cale. Now that I have read this book - I wonder why people are not shouting from the rooftops about her! What a fantastic story this was - it is set in Restoration Era England - Southwark to be precise. This is not a light, fluffy read - there are no ballrooms, no Lords and Ladies, no fancy gowns and jewels - it is a gritty read and I LOVED IT!!
Before I started this book, I emailed Ms. Cale and asked if there was anything I needed to know before I started this book as it is the fourth in the series and I hadn't read the previous books. She assured me that this title could easily be read as a stand alone title, but did warn me that Meg was the "villain" in the second book. And she was absolutely right, even without her little heads up about Meg - I never felt lost or bewildered while reading this story.
Meg has been running the family's inn for years, even before her father has passed away, it has not been easy but she has managed to keep the inn going. Meg has not had an easy life, she was "sold" by her father to pay a debt and has been ill used by men ever since. She is gorgeous and known far and wide for her famous temper and her equally famous bosom. She comes across as strong, sensual and totally in control, but she longs for a love of her own. She has had lovers by the legion, but none that would ever wed her or offer her more than a few nights of pleasure - until she meets Jake.
Jake's life took a swift downward turn when he lost his family, his betrothed and his livelihood in the Great Fire. Alone and without options, he became a fighter. Now at 38 with a bad leg and hands that are broken and unable to do much more than fight - he finds himself adrift. His promoter has let him go and once again finds himself alone and without options - until he chances upon a barroom brawl at Meg's inn.
Jake clears the bar and offers his services to Meg. Meg has lusted after Jake for years (and he her) and she is a little star stuck when she meets him - but in typical Meg fashion she takes control and strikes a bargain with Jake.
I don't want to give too much away - but this story is amazing - it is well written, flows perfectly, has many ups and downs, a lot of sexual tension, some violence, some HOT love scenes, some heartbreaking moments, some sweet moments, a few laugh out loud moments, a redemption of sorts, great secondary characters and true soulmate love. These two have so much to overcome - religious prejudice, social prejudice and past loves/lovers -that at times it seems impossible for them to have a HEA - but when they do - SIGH....
I highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading more of Ms. Cale's work!
Before I read this book I had never heard of Jessica Cale. Now that I have read this book - I wonder why people are not shouting from the rooftops about her! What a fantastic story this was - it is set in Restoration Era England - Southwark to be precise. This is not a light, fluffy read - there are no ballrooms, no Lords and Ladies, no fancy gowns and jewels - it is a gritty read and I LOVED IT!!
Before I started this book, I emailed Ms. Cale and asked if there was anything I needed to know before I started this book as it is the fourth in the series and I hadn't read the previous books. She assured me that this title could easily be read as a stand alone title, but did warn me that Meg was the "villain" in the second book. And she was absolutely right, even without her little heads up about Meg - I never felt lost or bewildered while reading this story.
Meg has been running the family's inn for years, even before her father has passed away, it has not been easy but she has managed to keep the inn going. Meg has not had an easy life, she was "sold" by her father to pay a debt and has been ill used by men ever since. She is gorgeous and known far and wide for her famous temper and her equally famous bosom. She comes across as strong, sensual and totally in control, but she longs for a love of her own. She has had lovers by the legion, but none that would ever wed her or offer her more than a few nights of pleasure - until she meets Jake.
Jake's life took a swift downward turn when he lost his family, his betrothed and his livelihood in the Great Fire. Alone and without options, he became a fighter. Now at 38 with a bad leg and hands that are broken and unable to do much more than fight - he finds himself adrift. His promoter has let him go and once again finds himself alone and without options - until he chances upon a barroom brawl at Meg's inn.
Jake clears the bar and offers his services to Meg. Meg has lusted after Jake for years (and he her) and she is a little star stuck when she meets him - but in typical Meg fashion she takes control and strikes a bargain with Jake.
I don't want to give too much away - but this story is amazing - it is well written, flows perfectly, has many ups and downs, a lot of sexual tension, some violence, some HOT love scenes, some heartbreaking moments, some sweet moments, a few laugh out loud moments, a redemption of sorts, great secondary characters and true soulmate love. These two have so much to overcome - religious prejudice, social prejudice and past loves/lovers -that at times it seems impossible for them to have a HEA - but when they do - SIGH....
I highly recommend this book and will definitely be reading more of Ms. Cale's work!
May 15, 2017
A full-flavoured mouthful of Restoration life
Broken ThingsBroken Things is Meg Henshawe's book. Hers and Jake Cohen's. If you've read the early books in Jessica Cale's Southwark Saga (especially Virtue's Lady), you'll remember Meg. Loud, coarse, ready to trample over everyone to get what she wants, known far and wide for her beauty and her lovers. And if you haven't read the earlier books, get them first, because this book will change everything you thought you knew about Southwark's favourite whore.
Cale takes us into London's worst slum in the years after the Great Fire. Her characters are irreverent, coarse, often violent, always real and compelling. Her training as an historian shows in the depth and texture of the life she portrays. Her skill as a novelist means we simply enter that life, never aware of Cale the scholar as we live the story with Meg and Jake.
What's broken in this book? Meg and her hopes for the future. The Rose and Crown, the inn that she runs with those of her sisters still under her fierce protection. Her relationship with her son's father. Jake's hands, his job (for a second time---in the Great Fire, he had lost his family, his betrothal, and his future as a goldsmith), his sense of himself.
This book is about two people who have little to lose, and that about to be ripped from them. Alone, Jake is ready to give up and Meg can see no way out. Together, they find a reason to hope; a reason to keep fighting and to win.
If you read only one book this month, make it this one.
Broken ThingsBroken Things is Meg Henshawe's book. Hers and Jake Cohen's. If you've read the early books in Jessica Cale's Southwark Saga (especially Virtue's Lady), you'll remember Meg. Loud, coarse, ready to trample over everyone to get what she wants, known far and wide for her beauty and her lovers. And if you haven't read the earlier books, get them first, because this book will change everything you thought you knew about Southwark's favourite whore.
Cale takes us into London's worst slum in the years after the Great Fire. Her characters are irreverent, coarse, often violent, always real and compelling. Her training as an historian shows in the depth and texture of the life she portrays. Her skill as a novelist means we simply enter that life, never aware of Cale the scholar as we live the story with Meg and Jake.
What's broken in this book? Meg and her hopes for the future. The Rose and Crown, the inn that she runs with those of her sisters still under her fierce protection. Her relationship with her son's father. Jake's hands, his job (for a second time---in the Great Fire, he had lost his family, his betrothal, and his future as a goldsmith), his sense of himself.
This book is about two people who have little to lose, and that about to be ripped from them. Alone, Jake is ready to give up and Meg can see no way out. Together, they find a reason to hope; a reason to keep fighting and to win.
If you read only one book this month, make it this one.
June 18, 2022
Ahh this freaking book! 🥰
Tired of reading about Dukes and Duchess’s? This book is for you then!
Hard, dirty, real, gritty, sexy! Everything opposite of those fluffy regency books we all love. This one tells the story of the hardworking men and women on the other side of town. You know, where the harlots, drunks, barmaids, dockworkers live?
Meg is a bad bitch. She might be my favorite heroine and I want her as my best friend, or at least I’d like to sit and have a pint with her. She is strong, confident, loving, sexual, independent…she’s everything!
Jake is a big ol teddy bear who loves Meg regardless of circumstances. He’s insecure, but brave and loyal. His love for Meg was pure and sweet as could be. It was nice to read a book where the male MC doesn’t quite know what he was doing, just letting the heroine lead him around.
Great book! Highly recommended if you want something a little different.
Tired of reading about Dukes and Duchess’s? This book is for you then!
Hard, dirty, real, gritty, sexy! Everything opposite of those fluffy regency books we all love. This one tells the story of the hardworking men and women on the other side of town. You know, where the harlots, drunks, barmaids, dockworkers live?
Meg is a bad bitch. She might be my favorite heroine and I want her as my best friend, or at least I’d like to sit and have a pint with her. She is strong, confident, loving, sexual, independent…she’s everything!
Jake is a big ol teddy bear who loves Meg regardless of circumstances. He’s insecure, but brave and loyal. His love for Meg was pure and sweet as could be. It was nice to read a book where the male MC doesn’t quite know what he was doing, just letting the heroine lead him around.
Great book! Highly recommended if you want something a little different.
April 26, 2017
Jake Cohen ranks very high on my list of favorite heroes. Battered and broken, but not down, he rises to defend those he loves and to make a life for himself. Tough in body and spirit, but tender in emotion, he pours healing love on a heroine who badly needs it.
Meg Henshawe isn't easy to love. She has scraped, clawed, and struggled to keep body and soul together and to take care of her family. It has made her crude, lewd, and coarse on the outside. When you realize "family" seems to embrace half of Southwark, you begin to appreciate her. When you see her with Jake's eyes, you love her.
If you like romance in which the history is as rich and deep as it is accurate, and if you like well rounded deeply imagined, realistic characters with genuine issues that come to a believable and satisfying conclusion, you will love her entire Southwark Saga. This book is no exception. I can't praise it highly enough.
Heed the author's warnings. This book has an abundance of profanity, violence, and graphic sex. Be assured however, that nobody but nobody writes about redemption as well as Jessica Cale.
Meg Henshawe isn't easy to love. She has scraped, clawed, and struggled to keep body and soul together and to take care of her family. It has made her crude, lewd, and coarse on the outside. When you realize "family" seems to embrace half of Southwark, you begin to appreciate her. When you see her with Jake's eyes, you love her.
If you like romance in which the history is as rich and deep as it is accurate, and if you like well rounded deeply imagined, realistic characters with genuine issues that come to a believable and satisfying conclusion, you will love her entire Southwark Saga. This book is no exception. I can't praise it highly enough.
Heed the author's warnings. This book has an abundance of profanity, violence, and graphic sex. Be assured however, that nobody but nobody writes about redemption as well as Jessica Cale.
May 2, 2017
Jessica Cale has done it again. I've been her devoted fan since Tyburn, book 1 of her Southwark Saga. Book 2, Virtue's Lady, only solidified her position as one of my favorite new authors. Broken Things is no different from the previous books in the sense that it offers the reader a whirlwind escape into the time of post-Fire London and a satisfying romance. Ms. Cale writes historical romance the way it should be written: with grit and fire and passion. She gives us real people. Her characters don't simply talk the talk. They inhabit this world. In them, you can see it, taste it and smell it. Hers is a world peopled with prostitutes, innkeepers, highwaymen and fighters...and those are just some of her heroes and heroines. The heroine of Broken Things, Meg Henshawe, is a familiar face to fans of the series. She has been an instigator, a brawler and a whore. Here, she becomes utterly likable. We get a glimpse into her world and begin to understand the choices she made. She is just delightful. Hero Jake Cohen is one I'll be dreaming about for some time. A down-on-his-luck fighter and an outcast on many levels, he is the perfect match for Meg. I loved watching these two fall in love. I really loved watching Jake beat up the men who threatened Meg. This broken woman finally gets a man who is her equal in every way and their journey is sensual and delicious. Finishing a Jessica Cale book is always bittersweet because as much as I relish the stories she provides, I become immediately homesick for Southwark. I know the next time I find myself in London, I will be thinking of Meg and Jake and imagining I walk in their footsteps.
April 18, 2017
Jessica Cale brings 17th century Southwark to life like no other author I know.
Equal parts historical fiction and historical romance, Broken Things follows the love story of a tough as nails Englishwoman and a solitary, Jewish prizefighter as they survive discrimination, poverty, thievery, and greed in 1678 Southwark, London.
Meg Henshawe, our heroine, is an Innkeeper with a string of past lovers who is responsible for single-handedly running an Inn while keeping her sisters and their collective brood of illegitimate children from being tossed out into the street by an unfeeling, yet greedy, distant relation.
Jake Cohen, our hero, is a Jewish man who lost his entire family, his fiancée, and his livelihood, goldsmithing, in the Great Fire of London. He has since endured, surviving by his wits and through his skill as an undefeated prizefighter.
Forced into an early retirement and on the hunt for a means to survive, Jake's path crosses Meg's where they find commonality in the very, real hardships they've endured. In survival, they find companionship and love as they struggle to live in an unforgiving world.
Their lives aren't easy; their pasts are full of heartache; and discrimination abounds. But together, they learn just how strong they both truly are.
Jessica Cale paints a vivid picture of life in 17th century Southwark. Her dialogue is colorful, witty, and well-crafted with careful consideration for the way people spoke in that time period while still giving the reader an easy, comforting read. You will feel as if you are there, watching it all unfold before your eyes. You will be surprised by the situations our couple face. You will find yourself rooting for Meg and falling in love with Jake as their love develops through a carefully crafted, slow burn.
You will cheer when our lovers find their HEA amidst all the broken things that make up their colorful lives.
I received an ARC of this book.
Equal parts historical fiction and historical romance, Broken Things follows the love story of a tough as nails Englishwoman and a solitary, Jewish prizefighter as they survive discrimination, poverty, thievery, and greed in 1678 Southwark, London.
Meg Henshawe, our heroine, is an Innkeeper with a string of past lovers who is responsible for single-handedly running an Inn while keeping her sisters and their collective brood of illegitimate children from being tossed out into the street by an unfeeling, yet greedy, distant relation.
Jake Cohen, our hero, is a Jewish man who lost his entire family, his fiancée, and his livelihood, goldsmithing, in the Great Fire of London. He has since endured, surviving by his wits and through his skill as an undefeated prizefighter.
Forced into an early retirement and on the hunt for a means to survive, Jake's path crosses Meg's where they find commonality in the very, real hardships they've endured. In survival, they find companionship and love as they struggle to live in an unforgiving world.
Their lives aren't easy; their pasts are full of heartache; and discrimination abounds. But together, they learn just how strong they both truly are.
Jessica Cale paints a vivid picture of life in 17th century Southwark. Her dialogue is colorful, witty, and well-crafted with careful consideration for the way people spoke in that time period while still giving the reader an easy, comforting read. You will feel as if you are there, watching it all unfold before your eyes. You will be surprised by the situations our couple face. You will find yourself rooting for Meg and falling in love with Jake as their love develops through a carefully crafted, slow burn.
You will cheer when our lovers find their HEA amidst all the broken things that make up their colorful lives.
I received an ARC of this book.
February 17, 2018
This was a stellar read. I wish more romance authors would delve into these kind of characters.
July 12, 2017
A chance mention of this intriguing non ton historical romance sent me searching Amazon for this new release. I am so glad that I did.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of Meg Henshawe, a seemingly used up tavern wench and Jake Cohen, a done-for professional brawler. How on earth? These prototypes are always secondary characters. They don't get an HEA. Well, they do now.
We're taken to the despair-ridden streets of Southwark and given a glimpse of struggling humanity with nary a duke, marquess, earl, viscount or baron in sight. The author made me believe this story. I cheered for them. I laughed with them. I felt their uncertainty and insecurity. I highly recommend this book. It was a page turner.
Jessica Cale takes us on a soul stirring journey. The despair is palpable. Inch by inch, she drags her readers along into the ordinary lives of ordinary people scratching out a paltry existence in the 1600s, post the Great Fire, in and amongst the ruins of Southwark. They don't have much. They share what they have. What they have in spades is a generosity of spirit and the will to persevere and survive.
I know one thing for sure, whatever Jessica Cale is writing, I'm definitely reading!
Now to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of Meg Henshawe, a seemingly used up tavern wench and Jake Cohen, a done-for professional brawler. How on earth? These prototypes are always secondary characters. They don't get an HEA. Well, they do now.
We're taken to the despair-ridden streets of Southwark and given a glimpse of struggling humanity with nary a duke, marquess, earl, viscount or baron in sight. The author made me believe this story. I cheered for them. I laughed with them. I felt their uncertainty and insecurity. I highly recommend this book. It was a page turner.
Jessica Cale takes us on a soul stirring journey. The despair is palpable. Inch by inch, she drags her readers along into the ordinary lives of ordinary people scratching out a paltry existence in the 1600s, post the Great Fire, in and amongst the ruins of Southwark. They don't have much. They share what they have. What they have in spades is a generosity of spirit and the will to persevere and survive.
I know one thing for sure, whatever Jessica Cale is writing, I'm definitely reading!
Now to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
July 15, 2017
4.5/5.0
Jessica Cale has written some great historical romances and this one is no different.
Read full review in the 2017 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Jessica Cale has written some great historical romances and this one is no different.
Read full review in the 2017 July/August issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 17, 2017
Another good book by Jessica
Love and hate. Such a fine line. Don't let the cover fool you. The Southwark series are worth reading. I think a lot of research is done for these books.
Love and hate. Such a fine line. Don't let the cover fool you. The Southwark series are worth reading. I think a lot of research is done for these books.
November 29, 2017
I'd give it more stars if it was an option.
read this book!
read this book!
April 16, 2017
Another breathtaking installment in the Southwark Saga! Jessica Cale has gone and done it again! This time we have Meg Henshawe's story... that's right everyone's favorite love to have her ... buxom bitch has her turn at true love. At first I was skeptical about reading the story because of my absolute hatred of Meg in earlier installments. But as I read into her backstory I found myself in tears. All the woman went through... someone give that woman a medal.
Alrighty so we find an older and more mature Meg than we first met in "Virtue's Lady". For the last decade or so she's been living an absolutely shitty life of caring for her father's tavern. Meg has scarified everything upon her father's demands ... her innocence... even the ability to raise her own children... seriously I was in tears. Well finally the old rat has died and Meg can raise her youngest son Tommy. She also meets and falls hard for out of work boxer, Jake Cohen.
But she soon discovers that before his death, her father sold the tavern to a distant cousin for a pittance. Now she'll have to fight to keep what's rightfully hers and raise herself out of the life misfortune she was born into.
Alrighty so we find an older and more mature Meg than we first met in "Virtue's Lady". For the last decade or so she's been living an absolutely shitty life of caring for her father's tavern. Meg has scarified everything upon her father's demands ... her innocence... even the ability to raise her own children... seriously I was in tears. Well finally the old rat has died and Meg can raise her youngest son Tommy. She also meets and falls hard for out of work boxer, Jake Cohen.
But she soon discovers that before his death, her father sold the tavern to a distant cousin for a pittance. Now she'll have to fight to keep what's rightfully hers and raise herself out of the life misfortune she was born into.
April 3, 2019
4.5 stars. A wonderful conclusion to a great series, and makes me wish there was more. A bit of a slow start, as Meg was unlikable at first, but as I got into it, I truly began to root for her happiness.
Full review here: https://courtneyreadsromancesite.word...
Full review here: https://courtneyreadsromancesite.word...
January 2, 2023
I don't know precisely what to think lol. There was some really great stuff here and some uneven writing and character work but I think it worked for me overall? What worked for me is the focus on folk that are not royalty. Working class people struggling to get thru each day. I also love that the MCs were both in their later 30s. I like Jake's Jewishness and how he kept little ways - that aren't that little, when you think about it - to practice his Judaism. Meg was funny and tough and I think she might be one of my favorite MCs.
What I am kind of undecided about: Meg places a lot of her self-worth in her looks. She was forced into sex work by her father and then continued to do it as a choice later in life so it is understandable that as she ages, she worries what it means for her ability to provide for herself and everyone else she takes care of. I empathize with her but I think it did not translate as well in some parts.
Things that didn't work as well: the writing was uneven. Some of the larger themes weren't really given the depth they deserved or examined more seriously. I don't usually care about accuracy of language when it comes to historicals . . . however, the language went back and forth from anachronistic to "of the period-ish" so that disrupted my flow often.
What I am kind of undecided about: Meg places a lot of her self-worth in her looks. She was forced into sex work by her father and then continued to do it as a choice later in life so it is understandable that as she ages, she worries what it means for her ability to provide for herself and everyone else she takes care of. I empathize with her but I think it did not translate as well in some parts.
Things that didn't work as well: the writing was uneven. Some of the larger themes weren't really given the depth they deserved or examined more seriously. I don't usually care about accuracy of language when it comes to historicals . . . however, the language went back and forth from anachronistic to "of the period-ish" so that disrupted my flow often.
December 7, 2019
Just when I thought Jessica Cale couldn't get any better, she proved me wrong. I literally squealed when I learned Meg would be the heroine of Broken Things, and chair danced when her hero proved to be Jake Cohen. Dutch immigrant, Jewish, a reluctantly retired boxer, the rival of Meg's ex-lover, no less, and auuuugggh. Yes. This. There's even Christmas (and Hanukkah!) and the *food* and just the right amount of visits from familiar faces to make this a treat for Southwark fans and newcomers alike.
Meg is a wonderfully complex character, a true survivor, but is love within her reach? She doesn't think so, and neither does Jake (oy vey, does he have a backstory) but that thing about holding someone so tight all their broken pieces come back together? Got that right here. Jake and Meg not only help each other heal, but become something new together, something wonderful and good.
Readers looking for historical romance that provides plenty of both, with a diverse supporting cast, will find that here. Definitely one of my all time favorites, and looking forward to more.
Meg is a wonderfully complex character, a true survivor, but is love within her reach? She doesn't think so, and neither does Jake (oy vey, does he have a backstory) but that thing about holding someone so tight all their broken pieces come back together? Got that right here. Jake and Meg not only help each other heal, but become something new together, something wonderful and good.
Readers looking for historical romance that provides plenty of both, with a diverse supporting cast, will find that here. Definitely one of my all time favorites, and looking forward to more.
May 14, 2017
Jessica Cale is a writer who cares about history. She sprinkles descriptions through her novel like drifting snowflakes, setting the scenes through small details. What I love about her characters is that they are not the regular Dukes or Duchesses of historical romance, but true everyday people in the slums who find love and happiness in spite of their gritty lives. I really liked Meg, the heroine of this story. She had a rotten past but was a hard scrapper who refused to be defeated.
Jake the hero was interesting, a Jewish boxer with no family. It was a fantastic read, and I will read more of her Southwark Saga series.
Jake the hero was interesting, a Jewish boxer with no family. It was a fantastic read, and I will read more of her Southwark Saga series.
May 5, 2017
Another excellent installment from Jessica Cale. This book takes the reader back to the grit and grime of Southwark from the glitz and glam of Versailles (book 3). Cale eloquently expresses Meg's anger and Jake's sadness, all while surprising the reader with twists and turns. If you haven't read any of the Southwark books, what are you waiting for?
October 21, 2018
I need more Southwark. I loved this book because I hated Meg in the previous book and this story was able to turn that right the frak around. I also loved Jacob. I loved how they resolved the whole Mark/Meg thing and explained further her motivation.
What else? Just about everything else really worked in this book. Southwark never gets old for me and I hope this isn't actually the last book.
What else? Just about everything else really worked in this book. Southwark never gets old for me and I hope this isn't actually the last book.
April 22, 2019
Loved this story!!!
I loved the story! I love how Jessica Cale brings the past to life... and not just nobility, which comprised such a small percentage of the population. Thanks Jessica! Looking forward to reading more!
I loved the story! I love how Jessica Cale brings the past to life... and not just nobility, which comprised such a small percentage of the population. Thanks Jessica! Looking forward to reading more!
March 20, 2022
I basically had to forget what a b*tch Meg had been to Jane in the second book. Having done so, I enjoyed this. I loved Jake. What a sweetheart. I mean, the foot rub! I know he'll be a good father, too.
August 20, 2023
Jessica brings this story to life. This storyline is compelling, written beautifully, and she just brings you into it, wanting more. Awaiting the next one. Great job!
November 18, 2024
This was he fourth book in The Southwark Saga and enjoyed this one the best.
April 29, 2017
Originally posted on lampshadereader.com
Broken Things by Jessica Cale combines two strong willed characters in a gritty world full of bar fights, drunkenness, and loose morals.
There were two broken characters in this story. Meg and Jake. Now, I’ve read the previous books in this series and I was kind of hesitant about Meg. I didn’t much like her character when she was introduced in the other books. I thought her a tad bitchy and crass. However, If ever there was a character that needed redeeming, Meg was it.
Page by page her story unfurls and I found myself sympathizing with her. Yes, she has loose morals--but that’s just who she is. If you don’t like characters that have been drug to the lowest possible depths and are totally imperfect, then this is not the book for you. The more I read, the more her character started to shine through. It’s as if I was polishing the most tarnished silver imaginable and slowly revealing the pretty surface. That’s Meg.
She really just wanted to take care of her son and sisters. Dealing with an abusive ex and running her own bar are a means to an end. Oh, and she kicks a lot of butt--literally. But it was her seeming unwillingness to deal with her ex, that made me sad for her. She can stand up to others but yet her true broken nature shines through when it comes to protecting her son.
Jake, on the other hand, looks broken on the outside. His numerous scars and limp, peg him as a man without any hope. His livelihood based on his ability to fight is cut short and that leads him to Meg’s bar. The two butt heads quite a lot, but that’s the charm of it all. Two strong people trying to come to terms with their lot in life. The attraction between them is off the charts HOT. Even foot rubs are sexy, who knew?
You can almost guarantee yourself getting that feeling of “this seems like it won’t end well”, but with every Jessica Cale story, it gives you the feels, makes you fall in love with her characters (even the bitchy ones), and hope that it ends well. Because, as if they haven’t gone through hell already, her characters will go through some more before they reach their happily ever after.
This can read as a standalone, but I suggest starting from book one, Tyburn (which is my favorite by the way).
The Southwark Saga Series
Broken Things by Jessica Cale combines two strong willed characters in a gritty world full of bar fights, drunkenness, and loose morals.
There were two broken characters in this story. Meg and Jake. Now, I’ve read the previous books in this series and I was kind of hesitant about Meg. I didn’t much like her character when she was introduced in the other books. I thought her a tad bitchy and crass. However, If ever there was a character that needed redeeming, Meg was it.
Page by page her story unfurls and I found myself sympathizing with her. Yes, she has loose morals--but that’s just who she is. If you don’t like characters that have been drug to the lowest possible depths and are totally imperfect, then this is not the book for you. The more I read, the more her character started to shine through. It’s as if I was polishing the most tarnished silver imaginable and slowly revealing the pretty surface. That’s Meg.
She really just wanted to take care of her son and sisters. Dealing with an abusive ex and running her own bar are a means to an end. Oh, and she kicks a lot of butt--literally. But it was her seeming unwillingness to deal with her ex, that made me sad for her. She can stand up to others but yet her true broken nature shines through when it comes to protecting her son.
Jake, on the other hand, looks broken on the outside. His numerous scars and limp, peg him as a man without any hope. His livelihood based on his ability to fight is cut short and that leads him to Meg’s bar. The two butt heads quite a lot, but that’s the charm of it all. Two strong people trying to come to terms with their lot in life. The attraction between them is off the charts HOT. Even foot rubs are sexy, who knew?
You can almost guarantee yourself getting that feeling of “this seems like it won’t end well”, but with every Jessica Cale story, it gives you the feels, makes you fall in love with her characters (even the bitchy ones), and hope that it ends well. Because, as if they haven’t gone through hell already, her characters will go through some more before they reach their happily ever after.
This can read as a standalone, but I suggest starting from book one, Tyburn (which is my favorite by the way).
The Southwark Saga Series
May 2, 2017
Such a great series! Such a great 4th novel!
I can quote from Broken Things all day and contemplate the impact and importance of novels that expose the full spectrum of humanity all night. I loved Jake. I shook my fists at him a few times, but even when I wanted to cuff him one (or two) I could not keep the smile off my lips. Meg is an important character across any genre. She is the way she is because of her experiences. It is easy to chuckle and slut shame her and turn your nose up and sleep just fine at night believing she is getting her just desserts.
Clever and engrossing. I thoroughly enjoyed!
I can quote from Broken Things all day and contemplate the impact and importance of novels that expose the full spectrum of humanity all night. I loved Jake. I shook my fists at him a few times, but even when I wanted to cuff him one (or two) I could not keep the smile off my lips. Meg is an important character across any genre. She is the way she is because of her experiences. It is easy to chuckle and slut shame her and turn your nose up and sleep just fine at night believing she is getting her just desserts.
Clever and engrossing. I thoroughly enjoyed!
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