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Broken
People say ‘monster’ like it’s a bad thing. Like monsters are only faceless creatures who haunt our sleep when we’re little.
They never realize just how many monsters they come into contact with every single day. How easy it can be to allow yourself to love one without even knowing it. How easy it is to trust someone you used to know, not understanding how broken they are inside, but loving them anyway.
But no one truly understands what makes a person a monster until they become one themselves. When the world has robbed you of everything you love and you have nothing left to live for. When the darkness is so welcoming that you would sell your soul to the devil if it meant you had a reprieve from the pain you suffered daily.
That's why I can't allow him to love me the way he wants to. Loving Everett is easy. It's comforting and familiar in a way that calms me. But I know that to love him is to put his life in danger because the monsters responsible for murdering my family won't stop until I'm dead. Even his job with the FBI can't save me. Maybe I don't want it to because at the end of the day, I'm not ashamed of who I am or what I do.
I don't hurt those who haven't done anything wrong. I protect the world by taking care of those who unleash their demons on the innocent. To get revenge for those who were taken from me. I look death in the eye and flirt with it, knowing nothing worse can happen to me at this point.
I’m not a monster.
I’m a daughter who lost her father.
A wife who lost her husband.
A mother who lost her child.
I’m not a killer.
I’m an eliminator.
Content Warnings:
Violence
Stalking
Murder: including of a parent, spouse, and infant on page
Suicidal thoughts/ideation on page
Foul language
Explicit sex scenes on the page
Removal of human body parts
Consumption of said body parts (by an animal, not by a human)
They never realize just how many monsters they come into contact with every single day. How easy it can be to allow yourself to love one without even knowing it. How easy it is to trust someone you used to know, not understanding how broken they are inside, but loving them anyway.
But no one truly understands what makes a person a monster until they become one themselves. When the world has robbed you of everything you love and you have nothing left to live for. When the darkness is so welcoming that you would sell your soul to the devil if it meant you had a reprieve from the pain you suffered daily.
That's why I can't allow him to love me the way he wants to. Loving Everett is easy. It's comforting and familiar in a way that calms me. But I know that to love him is to put his life in danger because the monsters responsible for murdering my family won't stop until I'm dead. Even his job with the FBI can't save me. Maybe I don't want it to because at the end of the day, I'm not ashamed of who I am or what I do.
I don't hurt those who haven't done anything wrong. I protect the world by taking care of those who unleash their demons on the innocent. To get revenge for those who were taken from me. I look death in the eye and flirt with it, knowing nothing worse can happen to me at this point.
I’m not a monster.
I’m a daughter who lost her father.
A wife who lost her husband.
A mother who lost her child.
I’m not a killer.
I’m an eliminator.
Content Warnings:
Violence
Stalking
Murder: including of a parent, spouse, and infant on page
Suicidal thoughts/ideation on page
Foul language
Explicit sex scenes on the page
Removal of human body parts
Consumption of said body parts (by an animal, not by a human)
397 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2025
8 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Baca
58 books1,046 followersSamantha lives in the southwest with her husband and two children, where she enjoys writing, drinking iced coffee, and watching the greatest show of all time—Friends. With over 30 books published, Samantha enjoys writing across several different genres, from steamy romantic suspense to laugh-out-loud spicy romantic comedies. She also has a sweet spot for holiday stories, so grab a blanket and get ready to binge some of the sweetest—yet spicy—holiday romance your heart can handle!
Samantha loves connecting with her readers, so here’s a list of where you can find her:
Facebook Reader Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/29457...
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSamant...
Instagram:
https://instagram.com/author_samantha...
Webpage:
www.samanthabaca.com
Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/authorsamant...
Books2Read:
https://books2read.com/ap/RQAYK9/Sama...
Samantha loves connecting with her readers, so here’s a list of where you can find her:
Facebook Reader Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/29457...
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSamant...
Instagram:
https://instagram.com/author_samantha...
Webpage:
www.samanthabaca.com
Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/authorsamant...
Books2Read:
https://books2read.com/ap/RQAYK9/Sama...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 15, 2025
Wow!! I’m at a lost for words with this one! I’ve never read anything like this from Samantha and I loved every second of this book! It was fast paced from the first chapter I was hooked needing answers!! There was action in every chapter that and it made me want to binge it!!
Sloane is such a bada** and literally would do anything for her family! I loved watching her go from grieving to literally no one could stand in her way!!
Everett oh sweet Everett! I loved him so much and I loved how he was so protective over Sloane!!
This is a darker book so please check triggers!!
5/5✨
Sloane is such a bada** and literally would do anything for her family! I loved watching her go from grieving to literally no one could stand in her way!!
Everett oh sweet Everett! I loved him so much and I loved how he was so protective over Sloane!!
This is a darker book so please check triggers!!
5/5✨
July 16, 2025
3.5 stars
A romantic thriller that asks and answers what someone is willing to do when they lose everything and everyone.
I found the characters loveable and was entertained while reading the book if i suspended reality for a while. i’d be interested in picking up more from the author for a quick, fun read.
check trigger warnings before reading!
thank you BookSirens for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review
A romantic thriller that asks and answers what someone is willing to do when they lose everything and everyone.
I found the characters loveable and was entertained while reading the book if i suspended reality for a while. i’d be interested in picking up more from the author for a quick, fun read.
check trigger warnings before reading!
thank you BookSirens for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review
July 8, 2025
Samantha Baca absolutely launches you into this dark thriller with an intense and highly emotional opening scene. And she doesn’t let off the gas. This is a fast paced, action packed, dark thriller that sees you through Sloane’s emotional lowest and morally lowest.
When no one of authority steps up to the plate to take on her families killer - who are still actively trying to kill her - she takes matters into her own hands.
I’m pretty sure my Apple Watch said are you out for run multiple times because my heart was beating so fast through all the twists and turns of this story!
When no one of authority steps up to the plate to take on her families killer - who are still actively trying to kill her - she takes matters into her own hands.
I’m pretty sure my Apple Watch said are you out for run multiple times because my heart was beating so fast through all the twists and turns of this story!
July 2, 2025
Very different from Samantha Bacas other books, but wow, I loved it! I was nervous about the trigger warnings (make sure you look at them) .... but for real, if, as a mom or wife, you have had any wrongdoings in your life, this is the book for you. Sloane stepped up and gave back what any of us would love to do in that situation.
Also side note a dog named Justice...extra love!!!!
Also side note a dog named Justice...extra love!!!!
July 18, 2025
Thrilling ride!! Kept me captivated from the first page. I enjoyed watching Sloane's character grow into a complete and utter badass.
August 6, 2025
I wanted to like this but I just couldn’t vibe with the book. It started off good, dramatic, harrowing, then I started to get a little confused as some characters were introduced. I felt the writing didn’t come across well. The plot itself was weak and unbelievable. The timeline didn’t help, how fast she seemed to move on from the trauma, how she seemed to jump from normal woman to ‘assassin’ mode. How characters that were introduced just happened to be able to hide/protect/super soldiers.
The plot just fell flat for me and became too unrealistic and hard to connect with.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The plot just fell flat for me and became too unrealistic and hard to connect with.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 18, 2025
I truly have mixed feelings about this book. When I first read the Trigger Warnings page, I closed it back up and decided not to read at all, but something told me to give it a try. From the first chapter, I was hooked! The characters were well-drawn and interesting. The pace was fairly quick throughout the whole book, and, because I cared about the characters, I was invested in finding out if justice was served.
Now for the reasons I knocked my review down from five stars- first of all, the sex scenes were cringy- excessively using words like “pussy”, “clit” , “fuck” and “dick”. I’m not a prude, but these were NOT sexy.
The second reason was that some of the dialogue was clunky. The excessive use of the words “fuck” (again, not a prude here!) felt like a four year old saying every bad word they knew while they’re mom was in the other room.
The last reason I didn’t give it five stars was because some of the events were so unrealistic and unbelievable, that it took away from a satisfying ending.
Overall, I like the way the author fleshes out characters, but not the best book I’ve ever read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now for the reasons I knocked my review down from five stars- first of all, the sex scenes were cringy- excessively using words like “pussy”, “clit” , “fuck” and “dick”. I’m not a prude, but these were NOT sexy.
The second reason was that some of the dialogue was clunky. The excessive use of the words “fuck” (again, not a prude here!) felt like a four year old saying every bad word they knew while they’re mom was in the other room.
The last reason I didn’t give it five stars was because some of the events were so unrealistic and unbelievable, that it took away from a satisfying ending.
Overall, I like the way the author fleshes out characters, but not the best book I’ve ever read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2025
This book wrecked me in the best way. Broken is raw, emotional, and completely unforgettable. It explores what happens when a woman loses everything and is forced to become something she never imagined just to survive.
The main character is a mother, a widow, and a daughter who has been pushed past the edge of grief. What I loved is that she doesn’t just sit in the pain. She channels it. She becomes a force, a protector, and yes, a vigilante. But it’s more than that. She is searching for a version of herself that can live with what’s happened and still find peace. Watching her fight for that redemption felt powerful and incredibly moving.
The romance with Everett was beautiful in a quiet, grounded way. Their connection existed long before the tragedy, and it’s clear that it was always there waiting in the background. It felt safe. It felt solid. It felt like exactly what she needed, without being rushed or forced. It’s a slow burn with intensity and depth, and it brought something warm and steady to balance out all the pain.
The writing is brutally honest and emotionally charged. The first few chapters were difficult to read because the grief and trauma are written so vividly, but that’s also what made the story so powerful. I felt every bit of it. The author handled the trigger content with care, and while it was heavy, it never felt gratuitous. It felt necessary.
The plot moves at a great pace, with no lulls or filler. I was fully invested from beginning to end. The balance between action, romance, and emotional healing was spot on. This isn’t just a dark romance. It’s a story about surviving what was meant to destroy you.
I hadn’t read anything by Samantha Baca before, but I’m officially a fan. If you’re okay with darker themes and can handle the emotional weight of the story, I absolutely recommend this book. It stayed with me long after I finished, and I know it’s one I won’t forget.
The main character is a mother, a widow, and a daughter who has been pushed past the edge of grief. What I loved is that she doesn’t just sit in the pain. She channels it. She becomes a force, a protector, and yes, a vigilante. But it’s more than that. She is searching for a version of herself that can live with what’s happened and still find peace. Watching her fight for that redemption felt powerful and incredibly moving.
The romance with Everett was beautiful in a quiet, grounded way. Their connection existed long before the tragedy, and it’s clear that it was always there waiting in the background. It felt safe. It felt solid. It felt like exactly what she needed, without being rushed or forced. It’s a slow burn with intensity and depth, and it brought something warm and steady to balance out all the pain.
The writing is brutally honest and emotionally charged. The first few chapters were difficult to read because the grief and trauma are written so vividly, but that’s also what made the story so powerful. I felt every bit of it. The author handled the trigger content with care, and while it was heavy, it never felt gratuitous. It felt necessary.
The plot moves at a great pace, with no lulls or filler. I was fully invested from beginning to end. The balance between action, romance, and emotional healing was spot on. This isn’t just a dark romance. It’s a story about surviving what was meant to destroy you.
I hadn’t read anything by Samantha Baca before, but I’m officially a fan. If you’re okay with darker themes and can handle the emotional weight of the story, I absolutely recommend this book. It stayed with me long after I finished, and I know it’s one I won’t forget.
July 25, 2025
The first four chapters broke me. The storyline. I could feel it and picture it all in my mind as if it was happening in front of me. It hooked me in, I wanted to help find justice just not for only Sloane but the whole damn town.
Samantha Baca you created a story that will make you really think of what would you do if you witnessed your family being killed in front of you, mistaken identity, the baby shot, devastatng, I cried, it hurt. And yes I wanted revenge.
"What I didn’t know was that his love was strong enough to lift me out of that darkness. His love was enough to make me cling to those sunny days and crave more of them."
This is a story of mistaken identity, wrong twin killed,and a woman who is out for revenge and has a list, judges, sheriff's and cartel responsible for taking what she loved the most. And then there is Everett he lost his brother in the process. He is FBI and he wants to protect her, but he can't, I can't allow him to get hurt. I've always loved him, and he loves her, but scared of what she has become.
Sloane became a monster, a killing machine on a path of revenge. she seems to enjoy it as well though - does this make her one of them? Or in the name of "Justice" ok? You decide!
"His love was what reminded me that I wasn’t broken. I just needed love to help me put the pieces back together."
"I feel guilty for moving on with life and living it. They didn’t get that chance, and now I’m moving on as if they never happened.” “No, you’re not. You’re moving on with life because you have to. But their memories will never be forgotten. We will live the rest of our lives honoring them by doing the things they never got to.” “This is harder than I thought it would be.” “I know.” I nodded, squeezing both of her hands in mine. “But I’ve got you, Sloane. Always.” “I love you, Josh.” “I love you more, Lily.” I leaned forward and kissed her hard and deep, knowing that nothing would ever separate us again."
Samantha Baca you created a story that will make you really think of what would you do if you witnessed your family being killed in front of you, mistaken identity, the baby shot, devastatng, I cried, it hurt. And yes I wanted revenge.
"What I didn’t know was that his love was strong enough to lift me out of that darkness. His love was enough to make me cling to those sunny days and crave more of them."
This is a story of mistaken identity, wrong twin killed,and a woman who is out for revenge and has a list, judges, sheriff's and cartel responsible for taking what she loved the most. And then there is Everett he lost his brother in the process. He is FBI and he wants to protect her, but he can't, I can't allow him to get hurt. I've always loved him, and he loves her, but scared of what she has become.
Sloane became a monster, a killing machine on a path of revenge. she seems to enjoy it as well though - does this make her one of them? Or in the name of "Justice" ok? You decide!
"His love was what reminded me that I wasn’t broken. I just needed love to help me put the pieces back together."
"I feel guilty for moving on with life and living it. They didn’t get that chance, and now I’m moving on as if they never happened.” “No, you’re not. You’re moving on with life because you have to. But their memories will never be forgotten. We will live the rest of our lives honoring them by doing the things they never got to.” “This is harder than I thought it would be.” “I know.” I nodded, squeezing both of her hands in mine. “But I’ve got you, Sloane. Always.” “I love you, Josh.” “I love you more, Lily.” I leaned forward and kissed her hard and deep, knowing that nothing would ever separate us again."
July 21, 2025
This gripping romantic suspense story delves into the journey of finding inner strength after a heartbreaking loss. Sloane once lived a blissful life—happily married to a wonderful man and embracing the joys of new motherhood with her son, Nicky. Tragically, everything is ripped away from her in a senseless crime. After months of waiting for justice, the criminals are finally apprehended, only for the situation to take a dark turn, preventing them from standing trial. With her life now in jeopardy, Sloane is forced to go on the run in search of help. Just when she thought she was safe, the threats resurface, pushing her to move once more, this time armed with a list of those believed to be complicit in her anguish. Elliott is an FBI agent who returned home after the death of his brother, only to find his childhood love facing an uncertain future alone. The police appear negligent and corrupt, and as he investigates alongside some friends, he tries to keep Sloane alive. Elliott's death has been faked, and now bodies are piling up with Sloane caught in the middle. Is she the reason for these new deaths? And how long will it be before the most dangerous of her pursuers finds her?
I enjoyed the story and the characters, even though it was quite similar to the movie "Peppermint." Since I don't read many stories with this trope, I had to remind myself that the romance is not the main focus, however, it felt believable given their shared history. The supporting characters were great, and I appreciated the "goodbyes" toward the end. My only issue was with the ending; although it was happy, it felt a bit hard to believe that such a resolution was achievable, but I suppose that's the charm of fiction. Overall, it was an intense and emotional story that leaves you wanting justice (the dog, too) to be served. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the story and the characters, even though it was quite similar to the movie "Peppermint." Since I don't read many stories with this trope, I had to remind myself that the romance is not the main focus, however, it felt believable given their shared history. The supporting characters were great, and I appreciated the "goodbyes" toward the end. My only issue was with the ending; although it was happy, it felt a bit hard to believe that such a resolution was achievable, but I suppose that's the charm of fiction. Overall, it was an intense and emotional story that leaves you wanting justice (the dog, too) to be served. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
Broken by Samantha Baca is a compelling romantic suspense novel that kept me hooked from start to finish. The story follows Sloan, a woman shattered by unimaginable loss but fiercely determined to take control of her own fate. Her journey is raw and emotional, and Baca does a great job portraying her strength and vulnerability in equal measure.
The romance between Sloan and Everett is charged with tension and complexity. Their relationship feels authentic, with moments of tenderness mixed with the underlying danger that surrounds them. The chemistry is undeniable, even when things get messy, which makes the story feel very real and relatable.
The suspense elements are well-paced and deliver plenty of thrills, though at times the story felt a bit intense with some of the darker themes and violent moments. If you’re a fan of gritty romantic suspense, this book delivers, but it’s definitely not a light read.
My only minor critique is that a few plot points could have been explored a bit more to fully resolve some of the story’s mysteries. Despite that, the emotional payoff was satisfying, and Sloan’s character growth is a highlight of the book.
Overall, Broken is a strong read with a gripping plot, well-drawn characters, and a passionate romance that will keep you turning the pages. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of dark, emotional romantic suspense looking for a heroine who fights back.
The romance between Sloan and Everett is charged with tension and complexity. Their relationship feels authentic, with moments of tenderness mixed with the underlying danger that surrounds them. The chemistry is undeniable, even when things get messy, which makes the story feel very real and relatable.
The suspense elements are well-paced and deliver plenty of thrills, though at times the story felt a bit intense with some of the darker themes and violent moments. If you’re a fan of gritty romantic suspense, this book delivers, but it’s definitely not a light read.
My only minor critique is that a few plot points could have been explored a bit more to fully resolve some of the story’s mysteries. Despite that, the emotional payoff was satisfying, and Sloan’s character growth is a highlight of the book.
Overall, Broken is a strong read with a gripping plot, well-drawn characters, and a passionate romance that will keep you turning the pages. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of dark, emotional romantic suspense looking for a heroine who fights back.
July 30, 2025
Sloane appeared to be living the perfect life. But then tragedy came in the worst way possible. Sloane lost everything, and somehow still found the will to survive. Or dare I say thrive? When law enforcement fails her, Sloane decides to take things into her own hands. With everything that's happened to her, she feels like she's turning into some kind of monster. With these feelings, she's using them to protect everyone else so they don't have to feel her pain.
The transformation of Sloane from the first pages to the end of the book was remarkable. She was such a strong and brave character that I felt inspired by, obviously not to the extent she went to though! I really felt bad for her from the beginning, learning about her relationship with her mother, and then everything that happened after. This story flows so well, it's like watching a movie while you're reading. It's also one of those books that I feel like it's hard to give a spoiler-free review of, but you have to read it. You won't regret it!
When an author writes something they typically don't, it can certainly be a good thing! Check content warnings if you feel you need to and darker books aren't your norm.
FAVE QUOTE: “His love was what reminded me that I wasn't broken. I just needed love to help me put the pieces back together.”
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: You love a good vigilante story and character growth!
The transformation of Sloane from the first pages to the end of the book was remarkable. She was such a strong and brave character that I felt inspired by, obviously not to the extent she went to though! I really felt bad for her from the beginning, learning about her relationship with her mother, and then everything that happened after. This story flows so well, it's like watching a movie while you're reading. It's also one of those books that I feel like it's hard to give a spoiler-free review of, but you have to read it. You won't regret it!
When an author writes something they typically don't, it can certainly be a good thing! Check content warnings if you feel you need to and darker books aren't your norm.
FAVE QUOTE: “His love was what reminded me that I wasn't broken. I just needed love to help me put the pieces back together.”
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: You love a good vigilante story and character growth!
July 12, 2025
Sloane never thought going to a high-school football game would ever bring so much hurt, anger and loss. She isn't a violent person, she doesn't believe in hatred until that night when her whole world fell apart. Now she was just surviving losing everything dies that to you, she'd give up everything just to get back what she'd lost. Everett had to be there not only for his mom but just to see Sloane and make sure she was OK, he couldn't believe the small-town had so much heartache and loss. Someone was responsible yet it looked like nobody was taking this seriously. Seeing her cry over the three coffins broke his heart, he still had his own brother to bury and stay strong for his mom. This is a story that covers so many different subjects that some might find hard. You find yourself wondering if you could be that strong put in Sloane's shoes. Can she finally find some kind of justice. Will Everett be able to protect her. Is everything really what it appears and just who can be trusted. Samantha has wrote a brilliant compelling story that is emotional, steamy and violent in places. Just how much can one woman take and when does she break. Watch out when it happens because nobody knows just how far they'll go for the ones they love. I just didn't want to put this book down.
July 20, 2025
Sloane has seemingly the perfect life until she and her husband decide to take their son to visit Sloane’s parents. While attending a football game, Sloane’s husband, son, and father are killed in front of her. She was also injured in the process. From that day forward, a darkness is awakened in her as she undertakes a path of vengeance. Everett is Sloane’s childhood sweetheart who has never stopped caring for her. He lost his brother during the same chaos that took most of her family. They each take a different approach to getting information on what actually happened as their attraction to each other rages in full force.
This is NOT a book where you should take trigger warnings lightly. There are several aspects of the story that may be difficult for some readers. I went into this story thinking it was more of a dark romance. There were definitely some spicy scenes, but the dark thriller aspects took over the story in my opinion. The author is very descriptive in her scenes and the story is believable. The book is definitely packed full of action, emotion, and suspense. You will not see the ending coming! *I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is NOT a book where you should take trigger warnings lightly. There are several aspects of the story that may be difficult for some readers. I went into this story thinking it was more of a dark romance. There were definitely some spicy scenes, but the dark thriller aspects took over the story in my opinion. The author is very descriptive in her scenes and the story is believable. The book is definitely packed full of action, emotion, and suspense. You will not see the ending coming! *I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 26, 2025
From the first page, Broken pulls you under—and it doesn’t let up. This dark thriller is fast, raw, and deeply emotional.
Sloane is a mother, widow, and daughter pushed past grief into survival mode. With no one stepping in to protect her, she becomes her own reckoning. It’s not just revenge—it’s about reclaiming herself. Her journey is painful, powerful, and unforgettable.
And then there’s Everett—the quiet, steady kind of love that feels safe even in the chaos. Their connection is slow, deep, and grounding in all the best ways.
The writing? Brutal in the best way. Honest, vivid, and respectful of the heavy topics. Nothing here is for shock—it’s all heart.
Broken is more than a dark romance. It’s a story about surviving what was meant to destroy you—and finding your own peace in the wreckage.
-------------------------------------------
"What I didn’t know was that his love was strong enough to lift me out of that darkness. His love was enough to make me cling to those sunny days and crave more of them."
"I feel guilty for moving on with life and living it. They didn’t get that chance, and now I’m moving on as if they never happened.”
"His love was what reminded me that I wasn’t broken. I just needed love to help me put the pieces back together."
Sloane is a mother, widow, and daughter pushed past grief into survival mode. With no one stepping in to protect her, she becomes her own reckoning. It’s not just revenge—it’s about reclaiming herself. Her journey is painful, powerful, and unforgettable.
And then there’s Everett—the quiet, steady kind of love that feels safe even in the chaos. Their connection is slow, deep, and grounding in all the best ways.
The writing? Brutal in the best way. Honest, vivid, and respectful of the heavy topics. Nothing here is for shock—it’s all heart.
Broken is more than a dark romance. It’s a story about surviving what was meant to destroy you—and finding your own peace in the wreckage.
-------------------------------------------
"What I didn’t know was that his love was strong enough to lift me out of that darkness. His love was enough to make me cling to those sunny days and crave more of them."
"I feel guilty for moving on with life and living it. They didn’t get that chance, and now I’m moving on as if they never happened.”
"His love was what reminded me that I wasn’t broken. I just needed love to help me put the pieces back together."
July 7, 2025
Talk about a book that sticks in your chest. If you don’t have goosebumps by the first chapter, this book isn’t for you at all.
Poor Sloane goes through hell. Being torn apart and thrust into darkness, despair and devastation. Then she got to feel like no justice will come for her and everyone she loved… What do you do when you get consumed like that? Get revenge and retribution for yourself!? Maybe even stand up and take things into your own hands. As hard as it is at times to wade through the dark, Sloane manages to find something. This book is hard on the nerves and emotions but man is it even harder to put down. You wanna see what happens and you cheer for things you never thought you would. There is so much darkness but man do you wanna grab a flashlight and make your way through it. This is such a fantastic book!!
Poor Sloane goes through hell. Being torn apart and thrust into darkness, despair and devastation. Then she got to feel like no justice will come for her and everyone she loved… What do you do when you get consumed like that? Get revenge and retribution for yourself!? Maybe even stand up and take things into your own hands. As hard as it is at times to wade through the dark, Sloane manages to find something. This book is hard on the nerves and emotions but man is it even harder to put down. You wanna see what happens and you cheer for things you never thought you would. There is so much darkness but man do you wanna grab a flashlight and make your way through it. This is such a fantastic book!!
July 23, 2025
Story - ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Broken is a fantastic and emotional dark romantic thriller by a favorite author who writes spicy, small-town, holiday novellas as well as romantic suspense. She brought the shock and awe in the first chapter and never let up. Sloane suffers an unfathomable tragedy that rips her world out from under her. When her high school ex-boyfriend (now FBI agent) Everett discovers she is in danger, they work together to find out the truth. The story is full of action-packed encounters, plot twists, and intrigue that gave me "The Pelican Brief" vibes! I loved there was help from friends we met in the Haven Brook series and the second chance at love when two people are changed by grief and loss. Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving into this one. Loved, loved, loved this!
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Broken is a fantastic and emotional dark romantic thriller by a favorite author who writes spicy, small-town, holiday novellas as well as romantic suspense. She brought the shock and awe in the first chapter and never let up. Sloane suffers an unfathomable tragedy that rips her world out from under her. When her high school ex-boyfriend (now FBI agent) Everett discovers she is in danger, they work together to find out the truth. The story is full of action-packed encounters, plot twists, and intrigue that gave me "The Pelican Brief" vibes! I loved there was help from friends we met in the Haven Brook series and the second chance at love when two people are changed by grief and loss. Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving into this one. Loved, loved, loved this!
June 16, 2025
I love a good dark story, and I love that Samantha is back at it, giving us some morally gray, the kicker. This time, our morally gray character is Sloane. After losing everything, Sloane is out to get justice for the brutal murders of her family, and she isn't going to hold back. The deeper she gets, the deeper the corruption from her local government and police. With the help of some past favorite characters, Sloane and her childhood friend Everett are about to uncover a huge corruption ring in town. No one is safe if they were any part at fault in the deaths of her family, and she will stop at nothing to rid the world of the evil that took from her. A fast-paced and action-packed story of love, loss, and stopping at nothing to get to the truth.
July 15, 2025
This is a powerful book and not for the faint of heart . The first few chapters are brutal and the main character Sloane faces events that are heart breaking and life changing. Read the trigger warnings!
But the events set the stage for the rest of the book which is a page turner and one you don't want to put down as you are waiting to see what happens next.
Sloane's strength and courage make you cheer for her even as she develops her own brand of vigilante justice.
The book is standalone but there are characters from the Dark Shadows trilogy that appear and help round out the story. Well worth the read.
I received this as an Advance Reader Copy for free, but the review is given voluntarily and my own opinion.
But the events set the stage for the rest of the book which is a page turner and one you don't want to put down as you are waiting to see what happens next.
Sloane's strength and courage make you cheer for her even as she develops her own brand of vigilante justice.
The book is standalone but there are characters from the Dark Shadows trilogy that appear and help round out the story. Well worth the read.
I received this as an Advance Reader Copy for free, but the review is given voluntarily and my own opinion.
July 21, 2025
I hadn't read anything by this author before and I was surprised, as it had me glued to the sofa. Her writing is brutal, heart-wrenching and unfiltered, so you need to bear the warnings in mind. Really exciting, it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end, heart-breaking at times, tender at others, and above all, the ending is unexpected. Seeing Sloane's transformation is an intense journey. You have to be in her shoes when she loses everything and has no choice but to give up or fight and seek justice. The plot and pace of the story are relentless, taking you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. In short, highly recommended if you like powerful stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 15, 2025
Violence✔️
Stalking✔️
Murder✔️
Suicidal thoughts/ideation on page✔️
Foul language✔️
Explicit sex scenes on the page✔️
Removal of human body parts✔️
Completely different to the Samantha Baca books we know and love recently but all I can say is WOW! This dark thriller starts by breaking our hearts in the very first chapter. The whole book was fast paced, suspenseful and devastatingly emotional. Especially as a mother myself, I was full on ugly crying in multiple parts.
Sloane loses her family and not one person from the small towns authorities want to help her find justice. After continuing to run and hide ronsavw her life, she decided to take matters into her own hands.
Stalking✔️
Murder✔️
Suicidal thoughts/ideation on page✔️
Foul language✔️
Explicit sex scenes on the page✔️
Removal of human body parts✔️
Completely different to the Samantha Baca books we know and love recently but all I can say is WOW! This dark thriller starts by breaking our hearts in the very first chapter. The whole book was fast paced, suspenseful and devastatingly emotional. Especially as a mother myself, I was full on ugly crying in multiple parts.
Sloane loses her family and not one person from the small towns authorities want to help her find justice. After continuing to run and hide ronsavw her life, she decided to take matters into her own hands.
July 17, 2025
Holy Toledo Batman! The first two chapters absolutely crushed me and it was an extreme emotional roller coaster from there. I cried real tears as this author ripped out my heart and then cheered on Sloane when she decided that she would handle things. This story is not for the faint of heart. It’s brutal and heart wrenching but watching Sloane come to grips with her new reality and then put it in its place was magnificent! I read this book without pausing because I couldn’t make myself put it down. Out of the almost 200 books I have read this year, this has been one of my favorites so far!
July 23, 2025
✨Tropes:
🚓FBI Agent
🔪Female Vigilante
🛏️Forced Proximity
🩷Second Chance
🩶Morally Gray
🌶️🌶️1/2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What is a person willing to do when they lose everything? Some fade away but others get revenge.
This dark romantic thriller was just WOW! It's action packed from the first page and I couldn't put it down. I was captivated. The plot is so good. The FMC Sloane goes through so much and is such a strong character. She's a badass. The MMC Everett is a lovable character and he's so supportive of Sloane. There are several twists and turns that had me practically yelling. There is some good spice as well.
*There are some triggers so check the trigger warnings*
🚓FBI Agent
🔪Female Vigilante
🛏️Forced Proximity
🩷Second Chance
🩶Morally Gray
🌶️🌶️1/2 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What is a person willing to do when they lose everything? Some fade away but others get revenge.
This dark romantic thriller was just WOW! It's action packed from the first page and I couldn't put it down. I was captivated. The plot is so good. The FMC Sloane goes through so much and is such a strong character. She's a badass. The MMC Everett is a lovable character and he's so supportive of Sloane. There are several twists and turns that had me practically yelling. There is some good spice as well.
*There are some triggers so check the trigger warnings*
August 4, 2025
I absolutely devoured this Dark Romantic Thriller. It's fast paced with twists around every corner. Sloane full of revengeful rage and meeting Everett again through the tragedy that happened to their families and the small town of Oak Creek where they grew up together and were highschool sweethearts. Never underestimate a woman who has nothing left to lose.
This is my first book by Samantha and I will definitely be reading more of her books. And through all the rage and death there is a very HEA for them. And Justice their new furry friend is icing on the cake. Excellent read with heavy triggers.
This is my first book by Samantha and I will definitely be reading more of her books. And through all the rage and death there is a very HEA for them. And Justice their new furry friend is icing on the cake. Excellent read with heavy triggers.
August 19, 2025
Check the trigger warnings. Sloane is a strong FMC. Everett is the MMC you can't help but root for. The book starts with life turning upside down for Sloane and pretty much doesn't stop until the end. Lots going on and Everett and Sloane's story is weaved in amongst the darkness of the upheaval of Sloane's life. It's a mystery that had me missing sleep until the end. I just had to know the why. The rest unfolded and kept me turning pages until the conclusion. I look forward to reading more from this author. I received an ARC of this book which in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions of it.
July 22, 2025
I liked Broken. I liked the plot idea and did enjoy the main characters. Both Sloane and Everett were good characters and did have good chemistry. I liked the idea of the revenge plot and enjoyed meeting some of the secondary characters. I did however, feel that even though books can/should be unrealistic to an extent this was very unrealistic for me personally. To have those skills so quickly and get the better of so many people the way Sloane did without more extensive training didn’t really make sense to me. Overall it was a good read.
July 22, 2025
Broken is an amazingly emotional story. It will show what can happen when a woman loses everything.
Sloane was married to a wonderful man and is embracing the joys of being a new mother. A crime rips everything away from her. After months of trying to find justice, the criminals are caught but then they are prevented from standing trial. Sloan goes on the run to find help. Elliott works for the FBI and tries to help Sloane. Now Elliott's death is faked and Sloan is caught in the middle of everything.
The romance with Elliott and Sloane was suspenseful and filled with tension. I loved how he tried to protect her even when she could be guilty. Their story is passion and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Sloane was married to a wonderful man and is embracing the joys of being a new mother. A crime rips everything away from her. After months of trying to find justice, the criminals are caught but then they are prevented from standing trial. Sloan goes on the run to find help. Elliott works for the FBI and tries to help Sloane. Now Elliott's death is faked and Sloan is caught in the middle of everything.
The romance with Elliott and Sloane was suspenseful and filled with tension. I loved how he tried to protect her even when she could be guilty. Their story is passion and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
If you have read Samantha Baca’s books in the past, umm, know that this is nothing like them. This was very emotional, a very dark thriller but wow, it has left me speechless.
Sloane lost it all and because of that, she is giving back to anyone that she can. She only goes after the ones that deserve it but she can’t let Everett get hurt by being with her, she has to let him go.
Everett has no intention of letting Sloane battle her demons alone. I love how he takes on the protective role of keeping Sloane safe.
Sloane lost it all and because of that, she is giving back to anyone that she can. She only goes after the ones that deserve it but she can’t let Everett get hurt by being with her, she has to let him go.
Everett has no intention of letting Sloane battle her demons alone. I love how he takes on the protective role of keeping Sloane safe.
July 24, 2025
WOW!! Just WOW!! This was AMAZING!! It's Sloane & Everett's story & it was fantastic! Sloane & her family come back for a visit with her parents & everything changes. A tragic event happens & she finds that she's stronger than she thought possible. Things start coming to light & things she thought she knew are in question. There's so much happening behind the scenes here; danger surrounds her & anyone she's close to. I loved seeing her become a bad ass & she has only 1 thing on her mind: VENGEANCE. I loved the spice & the storyline was fantastic! Highly, highly recommend this book & author!
July 16, 2025
4.5 ⭐️’s- Wow! This book from Samantha Baca hooks you from chapter 1! This is a dark thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat! I love how Sloane is one strong bada**! She’s not just an unaliver but an eliminator! She is out to get everyone who broke her and made her life hell. She lost her whole family but does end up finding a second chance at life. This was a first Samantha Baca book for me and I’m hooked! I can’t wait to read more by her!
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