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Family Fractures: The Harmon Family's Story-Novella 1
Family Fractures
A gripping emotional drama about mental illness, blended families, and the damage love can’t always undo.
When 17-year-old Ethan is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, his once-promising future collapses—and so does the fragile peace in his blended family. His stepmother sees danger. His biological mother sees only guilt. His father is stuck in the middle. And his little sister? She just wants to stop being afraid.
As Ethan spirals into denial and self-destruction, long-buried resentments surface and loyalties are tested. This family isn’t just struggling to survive a diagnosis—they’re fighting to stay together through it.
Told from multiple perspectives, Family Fractures is a heart-wrenching, page-turning novel perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Celeste Ng, and Liane Moriarty.
A gripping emotional drama about mental illness, blended families, and the damage love can’t always undo.
When 17-year-old Ethan is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, his once-promising future collapses—and so does the fragile peace in his blended family. His stepmother sees danger. His biological mother sees only guilt. His father is stuck in the middle. And his little sister? She just wants to stop being afraid.
As Ethan spirals into denial and self-destruction, long-buried resentments surface and loyalties are tested. This family isn’t just struggling to survive a diagnosis—they’re fighting to stay together through it.
Told from multiple perspectives, Family Fractures is a heart-wrenching, page-turning novel perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Celeste Ng, and Liane Moriarty.
126 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 14, 2025
This was an emotional, heartbreaking novella about the struggles a family goes through when their son is diagnosed with bi-polar disorder. It is told in multiple points of view to depict how each family member is affected. While not everyone is on the same page regarding a treatment plan, they are torn in their approach of how to handle the situation. It is sad to know that this is real life when it comes to mental illness.
September 17, 2025
Wow, what a read! I loved it. Get ready for a novella that's going to grab from the start and not let you go.This is my first novel by @a.paigeturner and it will not be my last by this talented, author. I'm looking forward to my next read.
She's touches on a very difficult subject, mental illness, bipolar. She takes you down this rocky road of how does a family's deal and cope with it. The writing is vivid, emotions are raw, and the family dynamics are right there for you to experience as if you were there watching it first hand.
Thank you, for writing such a dynamic book on a subject that needs to talked about more.
She's touches on a very difficult subject, mental illness, bipolar. She takes you down this rocky road of how does a family's deal and cope with it. The writing is vivid, emotions are raw, and the family dynamics are right there for you to experience as if you were there watching it first hand.
Thank you, for writing such a dynamic book on a subject that needs to talked about more.
July 9, 2025
Family Fractures is a powerful novella told through multiple POVs, exploring the emotional toll a teenage boy’s developing bipolar disorder takes on his family. It dives deep into the complexities of divorce and the often-overlooked role of a stepmom, capturing the raw, messy reality of trying to hold a fractured family together.
The mental health representation is especially strong, it offers an honest, vivid portrayal of bipolar disorder, particularly the mania phase. The emotions run high, and the character motivations are thoughtfully explored, making this a short read that leaves a big impact. Highly recommend for those looking for authentic, emotional storytelling with strong mental health themes.
The mental health representation is especially strong, it offers an honest, vivid portrayal of bipolar disorder, particularly the mania phase. The emotions run high, and the character motivations are thoughtfully explored, making this a short read that leaves a big impact. Highly recommend for those looking for authentic, emotional storytelling with strong mental health themes.
September 7, 2025
Family Fractures is a heart-rending novella in which A. Paige Turner brings your attention to bipolar disorder.
Ethan is a teen who has been diagnosed with a bipolar disorder. Multiple points of view are shared to make you realize that this affects every family member. They all see what they want to see but it isn’t reality.
Mental illness is real. The first step to recovery is to ascertain there IS an illness.
Blended family members struggle to understand what is best for him. Unfortunately, you realize that you have to do things that make everyone uncomfortable.
Ethan doesn’t believe he requires assistance therefore, he fights the process. Sometimes you have to reach rock bottom before you finally come to terms with the truth.
You may be able to heal the fractures, but you have to follow professional guidance.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
Ethan is a teen who has been diagnosed with a bipolar disorder. Multiple points of view are shared to make you realize that this affects every family member. They all see what they want to see but it isn’t reality.
Mental illness is real. The first step to recovery is to ascertain there IS an illness.
Blended family members struggle to understand what is best for him. Unfortunately, you realize that you have to do things that make everyone uncomfortable.
Ethan doesn’t believe he requires assistance therefore, he fights the process. Sometimes you have to reach rock bottom before you finally come to terms with the truth.
You may be able to heal the fractures, but you have to follow professional guidance.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
August 10, 2026
Emotionally gripping
Family Fractures might be a small novella, but boy does it carry an emotional punch. The author does an amazing job at creating characters that are relatable, making sure that you are emotionally invested.
The story follows Ethan, a 17-year old boy who has been recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder and how it affects his blended family. One of my favorite parts about this book is that the author writes from every character viewpoint, letting you see what each individual is feeling and thinking. This book is an eye opener in a diagnosis that individuals deal with daily and the different ways it can affect everyone involved.
The author does an amazing job at taking you on a journey that is raw, difficult, and emotionally gripping. Beautifully written, you can see the sensitivity and thought the other took in potraying mental illness in this storyline. If you are a fan of emotionally gripping stories involving family drama, mental health, and real struggles then you should definitely add this author to your list.
Family Fractures might be a small novella, but boy does it carry an emotional punch. The author does an amazing job at creating characters that are relatable, making sure that you are emotionally invested.
The story follows Ethan, a 17-year old boy who has been recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder and how it affects his blended family. One of my favorite parts about this book is that the author writes from every character viewpoint, letting you see what each individual is feeling and thinking. This book is an eye opener in a diagnosis that individuals deal with daily and the different ways it can affect everyone involved.
The author does an amazing job at taking you on a journey that is raw, difficult, and emotionally gripping. Beautifully written, you can see the sensitivity and thought the other took in potraying mental illness in this storyline. If you are a fan of emotionally gripping stories involving family drama, mental health, and real struggles then you should definitely add this author to your list.
August 4, 2025
This is a novella about a split family who battles the challenges of a child who is was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. It was so beautifully written and told in different POV’s of the different characters. I really enjoyed reading this!
July 22, 2025
Family Fractures is not your ordinary novella; it’s a poignant narrative that explores the intricate dynamics of a family torn apart by a teenager’s bipolar disorder. Through multiple perspectives, the novel skillfully navigates the challenges of divorce and sheds light on the pivotal role of a stepmom in the family’s recovery. The portrayal of mental health, particularly during manic episodes, is strikingly authentic. For those seeking genuine storytelling intertwined with profound mental health themes, this novella is a must-read.
July 29, 2025
This is an eye opener for people who have not experienced family or close friends with bipolar. This novella was a quick story of a family who the parents were divorced and the father was remarried. I loved the different POV in each chapter explaining how each member feels and how they come together to help Ethen get the help he needs. This is a must read.
This is the 1st book I have read from this author and I’m looking forward to reading more of her books.
This is the 1st book I have read from this author and I’m looking forward to reading more of her books.
July 12, 2025
it hits hard
I swear the author knows my life. She has portrayed what life is like dealing with bipolar. It wasn’t just from the patients point of view but also from each person in the family.
I cried, I remembered going through similar, and still coping with it. Mental health is not to be played with or hope that the chaos goes away. You get help and you continue with help.
I swear the author knows my life. She has portrayed what life is like dealing with bipolar. It wasn’t just from the patients point of view but also from each person in the family.
I cried, I remembered going through similar, and still coping with it. Mental health is not to be played with or hope that the chaos goes away. You get help and you continue with help.
June 20, 2025
4.5 star read. Very well written story about a young man’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder. This story gives you the POV of the young man during his manic psychosis and his treatment as well as the POV of his family as they struggle to cope with his behaviors. The way the writer writes about the mental health crisis and its effects on everyone is insightful and heartbreaking.
July 18, 2025
Amazing story about a family finding out their son has bipolar.Not wanting to accept it was hard for some family members.Learning you have to stay on you medication for it to work and to get help for yourself most of all having family support behind you means the most 💯 recommend everyone read this 5 ⭐️ read for me mental health matters 💗
September 6, 2025
A very well-written, quick read that really shines a light on the mental health crisis. Turner does a phenomenal job of epitomizing raw, messy family dynamics in these pages. Definitely worth your read whether you’re directly affected by someone with mental illness or not. Great insight into the true struggles of some families across the world
September 14, 2025
Absolute amazing read! This book was written so well, it is just a little over 100 pages and managed to make me feel, anger, sadness, anxiety, heartbreak and hopeful. This is a get to the point story, with no fluff and I absolutely loved every minute!
June 9, 2026
This novella was so so good! It covers the complex subject of mental health and does it in such a tactful way. The raw ugly truth of the family dynamics and how it affects them. I highly recommend!
August 6, 2025
Realistic and pogniant
This is the first book I've read by this author; however, it won't be my last! It shines a light into the lives of family struggling to survive. A very realistic glimpse of various options each of us may choose to utilize in an attempt to deal with a mental health issue within a family structure and how those affect ourselves and those around us. Excellent story!
This is the first book I've read by this author; however, it won't be my last! It shines a light into the lives of family struggling to survive. A very realistic glimpse of various options each of us may choose to utilize in an attempt to deal with a mental health issue within a family structure and how those affect ourselves and those around us. Excellent story!
October 12, 2026
Family Fracture is a gripping, emotional story that brings real problems and their raw, ugly consequences to light. It was a really insightful look into bipolar disorder, how it might look in a patient, and how it can affect a family.
Sometimes stepping out of your regular genre is a good thing. That was absolutely the case here. This story gets you thinking. This is a hard situation I couldn’t imagine going through. And the letters towards the end had me tearing up.
This is a short read. Go check it out!
Sometimes stepping out of your regular genre is a good thing. That was absolutely the case here. This story gets you thinking. This is a hard situation I couldn’t imagine going through. And the letters towards the end had me tearing up.
This is a short read. Go check it out!
September 29, 2026
Heartbreaking
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5
Family Fractures
Family Fractures is an emotional and thought-provoking novella that pulled me in from the very beginning. It offers a deeply human look at mental illness and how one diagnosis can affect an entire family.
I especially loved the multiple POVs. Seeing everything through the eyes of different family members made their fear, guilt, confusion, love, and helplessness feel incredibly real. Ethan’s journey with bipolar disorder is portrayed with honesty and compassion, while the story also shows the impact on those who love him.
More than just a story about mental illness, this is a story about family, forgiveness, understanding, and never giving up on the people you love.
A heartfelt, eye-opening, and beautifully written read. Definitely 5 stars from me! 💜📚
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5
Family Fractures
Family Fractures is an emotional and thought-provoking novella that pulled me in from the very beginning. It offers a deeply human look at mental illness and how one diagnosis can affect an entire family.
I especially loved the multiple POVs. Seeing everything through the eyes of different family members made their fear, guilt, confusion, love, and helplessness feel incredibly real. Ethan’s journey with bipolar disorder is portrayed with honesty and compassion, while the story also shows the impact on those who love him.
More than just a story about mental illness, this is a story about family, forgiveness, understanding, and never giving up on the people you love.
A heartfelt, eye-opening, and beautifully written read. Definitely 5 stars from me! 💜📚
October 6, 2025
A. Paige Turner’s Family Fractures is a quiet, deeply personal exploration of a family coming undone and learning to live again. What stands out most is its tone—though the story confronts grief, denial, and pain head-on, it never descends into despair. Instead, it moves with a steady sense of hope, showing that healing doesn’t mean erasing what’s broken but learning to live with the cracks.
One of the most striking elements of Turner’s writing is how the household itself becomes a character. The home seems to breathe alongside its inhabitants — at times holding its breath in an awkward silence, at others compared to a rotting corpse, mirroring the emotional decay within. This personification makes the story feel tangible, almost haunted by its own memories.
Like Ordinary People and Beautiful Boy, Family Fractures looks at family trauma not through bombastic spectacle but through the lense of intimacy — through the parents’ eyes as they struggle to find meaning and some version of “normal” again. That word, so often dismissed as dull or conformist, becomes a kind of salvation in this story: where love intersects with accountability. The novel feels lived-in, grounded by experience, and written with such emotional honesty that it lingers long after the last page.
One of the most striking elements of Turner’s writing is how the household itself becomes a character. The home seems to breathe alongside its inhabitants — at times holding its breath in an awkward silence, at others compared to a rotting corpse, mirroring the emotional decay within. This personification makes the story feel tangible, almost haunted by its own memories.
Like Ordinary People and Beautiful Boy, Family Fractures looks at family trauma not through bombastic spectacle but through the lense of intimacy — through the parents’ eyes as they struggle to find meaning and some version of “normal” again. That word, so often dismissed as dull or conformist, becomes a kind of salvation in this story: where love intersects with accountability. The novel feels lived-in, grounded by experience, and written with such emotional honesty that it lingers long after the last page.
July 27, 2026
Family Fractures by A. Paige Turner is an emotional family drama that explores the ripple effects of addiction, broken trust, and the difficult road toward healing. What resonated with me most was Krista’s emotional journey. Many of the feelings she experienced—heartbreak, frustration, hope, and the constant struggle between protecting yourself and loving someone through their mistakes—felt authentic and relatable.
Ethan’s character was equally compelling. While I didn’t always agree with his decisions, some of his actions reflected the painful reality of how addiction and neglecting one’s mental health can cloud judgment and damage the people closest to you.
The letters Ethan wrote to his family apologizing for his actions were especially moving. I only hope they were sincere as they didn’t say much.
While the pacing slowed in a few places, the emotional payoff and believable character growth made this a worthwhile read. If you enjoy stories about family, forgiveness, redemption, and second chances, Family Fractures is one that will leave you reflecting on the complicated nature of love and healing.
I’m only giving ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because I feel like more could have been added and it might be added in her second book that I will be reading. I do recommend this short novel!!
Ethan’s character was equally compelling. While I didn’t always agree with his decisions, some of his actions reflected the painful reality of how addiction and neglecting one’s mental health can cloud judgment and damage the people closest to you.
The letters Ethan wrote to his family apologizing for his actions were especially moving. I only hope they were sincere as they didn’t say much.
While the pacing slowed in a few places, the emotional payoff and believable character growth made this a worthwhile read. If you enjoy stories about family, forgiveness, redemption, and second chances, Family Fractures is one that will leave you reflecting on the complicated nature of love and healing.
I’m only giving ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ because I feel like more could have been added and it might be added in her second book that I will be reading. I do recommend this short novel!!
March 17, 2026
Family Fractures takes readers into a place many would rather avoid, exploring just how fragile individuals and families can be when forced to confront a loved one’s mental illness.
When I began reading, I wasn’t prepared for the striking realism with which the author portrays bipolar I disorder. The shifting points of view effectively carry the story, revealing how each family member struggles to come to terms with Ethan’s illness, and with their own new normal.
At times, the story brought me to tears, especially when viewed through the perspective of the youngest child, who feels the loss of her parents’ attention as it shifts to Ethan. Her fear is deeply palpable. She worries not only about her brother, but also about her own safety and who will protect her.
The author’s prose is, at times, hauntingly beautiful. As someone who loves language, I found myself completely transfixed. One line that stayed with me was: “Krista had never known how long silence could last until Ethan left.”
I highly recommend Family Fractures to anyone navigating similar challenges, as well as to readers seeking a deeper understanding of the far-reaching effects of mental illness.
When I began reading, I wasn’t prepared for the striking realism with which the author portrays bipolar I disorder. The shifting points of view effectively carry the story, revealing how each family member struggles to come to terms with Ethan’s illness, and with their own new normal.
At times, the story brought me to tears, especially when viewed through the perspective of the youngest child, who feels the loss of her parents’ attention as it shifts to Ethan. Her fear is deeply palpable. She worries not only about her brother, but also about her own safety and who will protect her.
The author’s prose is, at times, hauntingly beautiful. As someone who loves language, I found myself completely transfixed. One line that stayed with me was: “Krista had never known how long silence could last until Ethan left.”
I highly recommend Family Fractures to anyone navigating similar challenges, as well as to readers seeking a deeper understanding of the far-reaching effects of mental illness.
September 11, 2026
This was an amazing novella about mental illness and how it affects everyone Explanation mark It gives each person's point of view. It hit home for me about my family and having members that suffer with illnesses and how some choose to act like it doesn't exist or it will get better, I could relate to each character and see their point of view. Really good read.
September 25, 2025
Wow. Family Fractures is a short book that packs a serious punch. It follows Ethan, a teen living with bipolar disorder, but what I loved most was how it showed the way his illness affects everyone around him. The story switches perspectives, so you really get to see the confusion, frustration, and love from every angle… parents, siblings, and even the stepmom who’s just trying to keep everything from falling apart.
It doesn’t sugarcoat anything. The manic episodes feel real, the family drama feels messy (because families are messy), and at times I honestly felt like I was in the room with them. It’s not always comfortable to read, but it is powerful.
If you’re looking for a fast read that makes you stop and think about mental health, family, and the complicated ways love shows up, this one’s for you. Highly recommend.
It doesn’t sugarcoat anything. The manic episodes feel real, the family drama feels messy (because families are messy), and at times I honestly felt like I was in the room with them. It’s not always comfortable to read, but it is powerful.
If you’re looking for a fast read that makes you stop and think about mental health, family, and the complicated ways love shows up, this one’s for you. Highly recommend.
April 21, 2026
Family Fractures was a really interesting reading experience for me. The writing felt quite cold and distant at times, but instead of pushing me away, it actually worked in the story’s favor. It creates a kind of emotional space that puts the focus more sharply on the mental health aspect and how it affects everyone involved.
I really appreciate how the story is told through multiple perspectives. You don’t just see Ethan’s struggle, you feel how it ripples through the entire family, sometimes fracturing it beyond repair. That adds a layer of realism that makes the story really powerful.
I read it in just a couple of hours and was completely engaged the whole time. It’s a quick read, but not a shallow one.
For me, this is a 4.5-star read: thoughtful, different, and definitely worth picking up.
I really appreciate how the story is told through multiple perspectives. You don’t just see Ethan’s struggle, you feel how it ripples through the entire family, sometimes fracturing it beyond repair. That adds a layer of realism that makes the story really powerful.
I read it in just a couple of hours and was completely engaged the whole time. It’s a quick read, but not a shallow one.
For me, this is a 4.5-star read: thoughtful, different, and definitely worth picking up.
January 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read, one of the most important reads I have read in a while. While reality may not be my forte, I am also a type 2 Bipolar disorder who got diagnosed at an early age. I was 10 years old when I got the news, but I knew better. Over ten years, I fought it because I didn’t want to be the guy on the meds. I didn’t want to be that guy who had “the condition.” While mine never got as severe as this, I did have my own issues. Everyone needs to read this, not only for yourself but for others too. Learn what signs are there, how to help, and never be afraid to be harsh but supportive when needed. There is a line in here that I love and is the reality of it. When someone says they might hate you for being firm on things, “At least he will be alive.”
May 4, 2026
Powerful Story!
This is a short but deeply powerful story, told through multiple points of view, that each add their own layer of truth and emotion. The author does an exceptional job of capturing the weight and complexity of mental illness—not just from within, but from the perspectives of those who love, witness, and struggle alongside it.
While the story doesn’t shy away from the turmoil and heartbreak that mental illness can bring, it also threads something equally important throughout: hope. Quiet, resilient, and often hard-won, it shows that hope lingers long after the final page.
This is a short but deeply powerful story, told through multiple points of view, that each add their own layer of truth and emotion. The author does an exceptional job of capturing the weight and complexity of mental illness—not just from within, but from the perspectives of those who love, witness, and struggle alongside it.
While the story doesn’t shy away from the turmoil and heartbreak that mental illness can bring, it also threads something equally important throughout: hope. Quiet, resilient, and often hard-won, it shows that hope lingers long after the final page.
August 30, 2025
This story was a book club read for me & nearly had me triggered a few times, but I am glad I pushed through.
The emotional impact truly resonated with me. The author does a great job at bringing light to what happens behind the scenes and the helplessness we are faced with when dealing with a mental health crisis at home.
I really love that the author chooses to use her pen to bring awareness to these difficult subjects.
The emotional impact truly resonated with me. The author does a great job at bringing light to what happens behind the scenes and the helplessness we are faced with when dealing with a mental health crisis at home.
I really love that the author chooses to use her pen to bring awareness to these difficult subjects.
December 26, 2025
Family Fractures is a raw, emotionally gripping read that completely wrecked me—in the best way. I read it in one day, unable to put it down. The portrayal of mental illness, blended family dynamics, and love under pressure felt painfully real and deeply compassionate. I’m already halfway through book two, and this story has its hooks in me for good. Powerful, heartbreaking, and absolutely worth the read!
January 3, 2026
5 stars
A powerful novella with so much raw emotion trapped within this just over 100 page book.
Following the Harmon Family and their emotional story dealing with a son diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
This is a story that is told through multiple POVs. Every family member has a role and reaction to the impact and coming to grips with the reality and damage metal illness can bring to a family if not addressed.
Check your triggers, this truly is a powerful read.
A powerful novella with so much raw emotion trapped within this just over 100 page book.
Following the Harmon Family and their emotional story dealing with a son diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
This is a story that is told through multiple POVs. Every family member has a role and reaction to the impact and coming to grips with the reality and damage metal illness can bring to a family if not addressed.
Check your triggers, this truly is a powerful read.
January 8, 2026
Wow! This one was tough. This book takes you on a journey and lets you see and feel the real struggle with sickness in your family. It’s real, it’s raw and it was so emotional. This is the type of book I love to read. You see these scenarios happen everyday to families that don’t know what to do or how to deal with them. Sometimes the hardest thing to do is what needs to be done to help someone with a mental illness, esp when they are a huge part of your world.
January 22, 2026
I devoured this book in just a couple of hours. It hit so close to home for multiple reasons. One because I’ve worked in the mental health and addictions field for over a decade, and two, because of personal ties to those struggling with mental illness and substance use. This was spoke such truth from the different perspectives of those involved in this young man’s life, even to the point of HIS perspective. Thank you, for bringing these perspectives to life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews