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After The Break
Ten years I trained to be the best boxer there is. I had fighters blood pumping through my veins and I was a lethal opponent. One to be feared. Twelve years I spent with my first love, we were childhood sweethearts and I was ready to make her my wife. My brother would have been my best man, his wife would have been her maid of honor. 11 minutes 13 seconds. That was all the time it took to rip my world apart. I. Am. Broken. And not the kind of broken that can be fixed. Ever. I will always be imprisoned in a darkness I can never fully escape from. Infected with a disease that can never be cured. Rage. Every day I struggle to survive. I've not felt alive until now. Until her. Skylar Barrett. She is an actress, a millionaire, every man’s wet dream. On the surface she has everything; wants for nothing. But I see what lies beneath her facade. She walks a fine line between the dark and the light. She’s a sinner and a savior. And she has chosen me. She needs my protection and I. Need. Her. I know I can protect her. I know I can destroy her. She is my redemption. My destruction. But she is mine. Even if it ruins us both. New Adult Contemporary Strong language and themes,and sexual content, not intended for readers under 18. This is a Full Length Novel.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 10, 2017
39 people are currently reading
649 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Joan
3 books92 followersOnce upon a time, in my innocent youth I had a dream of being a figure skater. Mostly because I loved the outfits and the smell of the ice. Then, one day, I fell flat on my ass and those dreams disappeared quickly...because...ouch. After that my dreams progressed with my age; there was the police officer, the actress, the fed, the Burlesque Club owner, the spy, the therapist, the dragon hunter. I learned everything I could about every profession I was interested in (yes even the dragon hunter). Then I came to a realization; I blame all my obscure professional dreams on the fact that I was such an avid reader. I devoured books like crazy & after each one I was enthralled. I just wanted to live in the stories, become the characters. And that is when I knew. I was meant to be an author. I was born to create the stories I so badly wanted to be a part of. So here I am today, making all my dreams come true through my writing and hopefully you, the reader, enjoy reading them as much as I enjoyed writing them! Stay tuned for my debut novel After The Break. Coming at you January 10th, 2017!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 3, 2017
2.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I really wanted to like this one so I stuck with it, but I should've listened to my gut and added it to my dnf shelf. I think the premise and overall idea of the story was good, but the execution just wasn't there. I never fully connected with the characters. While I felt bad for their circumstances, I never got that feeling of wanting to root for them. There was also a lot of dramatic stuff going on that never got fully addressed and didn't give me that feeling of closure in the end. I'm not sure if this is the author's first book, but I do see potential in their writing and I think with some growth and tweaking they could become a great storyteller.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Skylar and Liam's story. They meet in Liam's dad's bar one night at a wrap up party for a movie that Skylar was in. There is some violence that goes down with both Skylar and Liam in the middle, and Skylar ends up offering Liam a job as her new bodyguard back in LA. They dance around their attraction for a while, but eventually give in and start a romantic relationship. There is some family and friend drama, some big secrets revealed, some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Skylar and Liam's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not that great. It was close to 400 pages in my kindle app, and I think it could've easily been edited down. It often felt slow and I was easily distracted. I did skim some towards the end because I really wanted to just finish it.
Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.
H rating: 3 stars. Liam. He was ok. I thought he was a little OTT at times with his possessive and protective behavior, but I also understood it -- I just never really connected with his character.
h rating: 3 stars. Skylar. She was ok. She was dealt a bad hand with her parents, and I felt bad for her circumstances-- but I never fully connected with her either.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. Erotic asphyxiation play in one scene.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Not really
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes - BIG spoilers here, so beware ;)
Closure: This didn't have enough closure for me. I had a lot of unanswered questions that weren't addressed. I would call it a HFN ending .
How I got it: I got it on loan through booklending.com and Amazon.
Safety: This one should be either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: I think I really wanted to like this one so I stuck with it, but I should've listened to my gut and added it to my dnf shelf. I think the premise and overall idea of the story was good, but the execution just wasn't there. I never fully connected with the characters. While I felt bad for their circumstances, I never got that feeling of wanting to root for them. There was also a lot of dramatic stuff going on that never got fully addressed and didn't give me that feeling of closure in the end. I'm not sure if this is the author's first book, but I do see potential in their writing and I think with some growth and tweaking they could become a great storyteller.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Skylar and Liam's story. They meet in Liam's dad's bar one night at a wrap up party for a movie that Skylar was in. There is some violence that goes down with both Skylar and Liam in the middle, and Skylar ends up offering Liam a job as her new bodyguard back in LA. They dance around their attraction for a while, but eventually give in and start a romantic relationship. There is some family and friend drama, some big secrets revealed, some sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Skylar and Liam's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not that great. It was close to 400 pages in my kindle app, and I think it could've easily been edited down. It often felt slow and I was easily distracted. I did skim some towards the end because I really wanted to just finish it.
Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.
H rating: 3 stars. Liam. He was ok. I thought he was a little OTT at times with his possessive and protective behavior, but I also understood it -- I just never really connected with his character.
h rating: 3 stars. Skylar. She was ok. She was dealt a bad hand with her parents, and I felt bad for her circumstances-- but I never fully connected with her either.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. Erotic asphyxiation play in one scene.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Not really
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes - BIG spoilers here, so beware ;)
Closure: This didn't have enough closure for me. I had a lot of unanswered questions that weren't addressed. I would call it a HFN ending .
How I got it: I got it on loan through booklending.com and Amazon.
Safety: This one should be either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
February 6, 2017
A story of two broken people who help each other to be a little less broken.
Liam and Skylar meet on Orca Island. Sky just finished wrapping up a movie and is celebrating with the cast at a local bar. That is where she meets Liam and they instantly connect. The chemistry between the two characters was perfect and I was hooked from the very beginning!
Andrea has a way with words that is just breath taking. I am just in love with her work!!
I loved skylar but at the same time there was moments where I just wanted to shake her and say wake the fuck up!!!!!!! Then again I saw a lot of myself in her! She was flawed but always had good intentions, quirky and fun and most importantly kind to the very core!
Their relationship was so sweet and beautiful It was real. They fought, they made up and they healed. He helped her see that she was actually worth something other than a pay check. She helped him see past all the anger and gave him some light!
Even in the most intense scenes Skylar still managed to make me laugh! Her humour and personality was so enjoyable, she was sassy and had a big mouth but I loved her! The issues she had were something I didn't expect in the beginning but as I read more throughout the book I could see where the author was headed. The story was beautifully written and I can tell that the author cares for the characters and how they were portrayed, they were well thought out and and many different layers to them!
Read
March 6, 2017Super proud of Dre and think her debut is so very much her, and also and excellent read ♡
Want to read
May 18, 2016"I'm filth. I'll stain you. I'm rude, selfish, territorial, possessive. Fucking controlling. I have a quick trigger temper that is practically impossible to control. I'm a fuck up on my best day, on my worst, I'm completely destructive."
Is this supposed to be someone I want to have snuggles with? Because he honestly sounds like my worst nightmare.
Is this supposed to be someone I want to have snuggles with? Because he honestly sounds like my worst nightmare.
February 23, 2018
I waffled between 3 and 4 and settled on 4 because I liked the premise and the end.
I might go in for Shay and Cass, might not.
Haven't decided yet, which is a lot like how this book left me feeling.
Entirely unsure around the 50-60% mark, a little irritated for the first half of the entire book, but generally satisfied with the end.
So, yeah.
That's about all.
Edit: Nope, you know what, I will add this - if you're going to use mental illness as a last minute throw in plot device, then do so with respect and dignity. It is the very least an author can do. I think some people thought I was going to like this for ~reasons~ related to the disorder aspect of the heroine, and if anything, I figured it out early on because of the ignorant way everyone kept referring to it, and it was only made worse by how it was treated after the fact when it was all out in the open. I mean, we can't even call a hypomanic stage or mania what it is, apparently, we have to use another word entirely for it. I don't know, maybe that makes it sound less ... whatever, I guess.
Over all, I could have dealt with the childishness of the MC's given their life experiences and whatever else, but uh, the whole disorder aspect for the heroine could have been handled better, and not just as a last minute thing we use to show the hero loves her ~so much~ that he'll stay with her despite of this. Because when you don't show any care or attention to a mental heath disorder in a book other than to just toss it in, and say, all good, that's how it feels.
Yep. K, that's all.
I might go in for Shay and Cass, might not.
Haven't decided yet, which is a lot like how this book left me feeling.
Entirely unsure around the 50-60% mark, a little irritated for the first half of the entire book, but generally satisfied with the end.
So, yeah.
That's about all.
Edit: Nope, you know what, I will add this - if you're going to use mental illness as a last minute throw in plot device, then do so with respect and dignity. It is the very least an author can do. I think some people thought I was going to like this for ~reasons~ related to the disorder aspect of the heroine, and if anything, I figured it out early on because of the ignorant way everyone kept referring to it, and it was only made worse by how it was treated after the fact when it was all out in the open. I mean, we can't even call a hypomanic stage or mania what it is, apparently, we have to use another word entirely for it. I don't know, maybe that makes it sound less ... whatever, I guess.
Over all, I could have dealt with the childishness of the MC's given their life experiences and whatever else, but uh, the whole disorder aspect for the heroine could have been handled better, and not just as a last minute thing we use to show the hero loves her ~so much~ that he'll stay with her despite of this. Because when you don't show any care or attention to a mental heath disorder in a book other than to just toss it in, and say, all good, that's how it feels.
Yep. K, that's all.
February 12, 2017
"You can't stain something that's already dirty."
Eleven minutes... That's how long it took for Liam O'Conner's world to come crashing down on him. Going from Pro-boxer to nothing, going from loving to hating. Nothing can make it better, no one can make it better, until her... Skylar.
Skylar Barrett. Hollywood elite. Beautiful, happy, and ruling the films. Look closer... You can see her demons lurking around the corner. Will a chance meeting and a new bodyguard be the right thing for Skylar?
Where on earth do I start? I know!!! With Lethal Liam!! I loved everything about him! There were times I wanted to punch him, but understood him. My heart broke for him and I wanted nothing more than for him to be happy.
"I'm filth. I'll stain you. I'm rude, selfish, territorial, possessive. Fucking controlling. I have a quick trigger temper that is practically impossible to control. I'm a fucked-up on my best day. On my worst, I'm completely destructive."
Skylar was broken, my heart broke for her as well. at times I was laughing because of her spunk and others I wanted to cry with her.
Two very broken characters coming together and trying to put each others pieces back together is not easy by any means and I think Andrea Joan did an amazing job with this story. The writing was fantastic, the story flowed so well, and did I mention I LOVE LIAM!!!!
~Alison
Eleven minutes... That's how long it took for Liam O'Conner's world to come crashing down on him. Going from Pro-boxer to nothing, going from loving to hating. Nothing can make it better, no one can make it better, until her... Skylar.
Skylar Barrett. Hollywood elite. Beautiful, happy, and ruling the films. Look closer... You can see her demons lurking around the corner. Will a chance meeting and a new bodyguard be the right thing for Skylar?
Where on earth do I start? I know!!! With Lethal Liam!! I loved everything about him! There were times I wanted to punch him, but understood him. My heart broke for him and I wanted nothing more than for him to be happy.
"I'm filth. I'll stain you. I'm rude, selfish, territorial, possessive. Fucking controlling. I have a quick trigger temper that is practically impossible to control. I'm a fucked-up on my best day. On my worst, I'm completely destructive."
Skylar was broken, my heart broke for her as well. at times I was laughing because of her spunk and others I wanted to cry with her.
Two very broken characters coming together and trying to put each others pieces back together is not easy by any means and I think Andrea Joan did an amazing job with this story. The writing was fantastic, the story flowed so well, and did I mention I LOVE LIAM!!!!
~Alison
July 19, 2017
Holy shit have I been living under a rock or something? This book was amazing! I loved it so much I can't even begin to describe it! A must read that will destroy you!!
February 6, 2017
4.5 Stars
After the Break is Andrea's (Dre to me) debut novel and damn she nailed this one!! You can always tell when a new author either has it or doesn't. And let me tell you, Dre has it. She knows how to draw you in, keep you there and have you never wanting the book to end.
I will be honest and say that Dre blew me away. I wasn't really sure what to expect from her. I've known Dre for a few years and she's very hilarious and has an over-active imagination. And I love that about her. And I feel that has totally played in her ability to write a very believable and gripping story (along with her amazing writing). After the Break will stick with you days, even weeks after reading it. And it's her unique writing and descriptive words that will captivate you.
"She's the saint and sinner, the devil and the angel, the savior and the one in need of saving."
After the Break is a story of two broken individuals. Broken in different ways and feel that there is no way to recover and become whole again. My heart actually hurt reading parts of this story. I felt the anger, disgust, self-hatred and terror that Liam goes through. I felt Sky's fear, anxiety and lack of faith in herself. But what I also saw in them both was a light to other. Their beacon.
"You can't stain something that's already dirty."
The chemistry between these two was like fireworks. NO, they didn't immediately fall for one another (thank you for that) but they gradually earned the other's trust and faith. But that didn't come along without the downfalls. Their story is not easy and breezy. But it's one you want to read - tears, laughter, heartbreak and all.
"Apart we were always strong we just couldn't recognize it. But together, together we are fucking lethal."
The banter between all the characters is perfect. From Liam and Skylar to Skylar and Win and Noah, even Cass. All their personalities are so different yet blend so well together. And Dre makes it so easy to watch everything unfold. As I said, this story feels so life-like. I was truly blown away by Dre's writing.
I am no way promoting this book because it's written by someone I am friends with. I want people to read this book because it's very damn good. And for her debut novel, Dre will knock your socks off. I can't wait to see what she brings us in her next book!!
After the Break is Andrea's (Dre to me) debut novel and damn she nailed this one!! You can always tell when a new author either has it or doesn't. And let me tell you, Dre has it. She knows how to draw you in, keep you there and have you never wanting the book to end.
I will be honest and say that Dre blew me away. I wasn't really sure what to expect from her. I've known Dre for a few years and she's very hilarious and has an over-active imagination. And I love that about her. And I feel that has totally played in her ability to write a very believable and gripping story (along with her amazing writing). After the Break will stick with you days, even weeks after reading it. And it's her unique writing and descriptive words that will captivate you.
"She's the saint and sinner, the devil and the angel, the savior and the one in need of saving."
After the Break is a story of two broken individuals. Broken in different ways and feel that there is no way to recover and become whole again. My heart actually hurt reading parts of this story. I felt the anger, disgust, self-hatred and terror that Liam goes through. I felt Sky's fear, anxiety and lack of faith in herself. But what I also saw in them both was a light to other. Their beacon.
"You can't stain something that's already dirty."
The chemistry between these two was like fireworks. NO, they didn't immediately fall for one another (thank you for that) but they gradually earned the other's trust and faith. But that didn't come along without the downfalls. Their story is not easy and breezy. But it's one you want to read - tears, laughter, heartbreak and all.
"Apart we were always strong we just couldn't recognize it. But together, together we are fucking lethal."
The banter between all the characters is perfect. From Liam and Skylar to Skylar and Win and Noah, even Cass. All their personalities are so different yet blend so well together. And Dre makes it so easy to watch everything unfold. As I said, this story feels so life-like. I was truly blown away by Dre's writing.
I am no way promoting this book because it's written by someone I am friends with. I want people to read this book because it's very damn good. And for her debut novel, Dre will knock your socks off. I can't wait to see what she brings us in her next book!!
February 19, 2017
"She's the saint and sinner, the devil and the angel, the savior and the one in need of saving."
There are times when I'm left utterly speechless after reading a book. That the instant I've finished, I sit there, completely stunned and captivated with what I just read. Where it leaves you with the belief that you experienced everything the characters did, where your emotions are so caught up with each and every word and feeling expressed, where reality still holds a back seat to the power of a truly astonishing book.
And that's exactly what happened with After The Break. As I sit here, writing this review, I'm still left speechless. And this book being Andrea Joan's DEBUT...there aren't enough words that I can voice, to genuinely convey my complete and unconditional LOVE for this book! After The Break solidifies Andrea's passion and talent as a remarkable writer. Her words were flawlessly written, and her personality showed throughout the entire story.
This love story is one I will never forget. The pain and struggles the characters experience are utterly heartbreaking. My poor heart took a beating, weeping it's bloody tears in sadness. And the healing it took was a journey. The trust, faith and love that was needed to become whole again...the same journey these characters went through. That after each wound that healed, you're left just a little bit different...a piece of your soul escapes through the cracks to be left behind with the characters and story.
After The Break is a breathtaking and dangerously beautiful romance, about two damaged individuals, finding love and acceptance together. This book is an unquestionable must read, and completely wrecked me! 5+ Stars!
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.*
There are times when I'm left utterly speechless after reading a book. That the instant I've finished, I sit there, completely stunned and captivated with what I just read. Where it leaves you with the belief that you experienced everything the characters did, where your emotions are so caught up with each and every word and feeling expressed, where reality still holds a back seat to the power of a truly astonishing book.
And that's exactly what happened with After The Break. As I sit here, writing this review, I'm still left speechless. And this book being Andrea Joan's DEBUT...there aren't enough words that I can voice, to genuinely convey my complete and unconditional LOVE for this book! After The Break solidifies Andrea's passion and talent as a remarkable writer. Her words were flawlessly written, and her personality showed throughout the entire story.
This love story is one I will never forget. The pain and struggles the characters experience are utterly heartbreaking. My poor heart took a beating, weeping it's bloody tears in sadness. And the healing it took was a journey. The trust, faith and love that was needed to become whole again...the same journey these characters went through. That after each wound that healed, you're left just a little bit different...a piece of your soul escapes through the cracks to be left behind with the characters and story.
After The Break is a breathtaking and dangerously beautiful romance, about two damaged individuals, finding love and acceptance together. This book is an unquestionable must read, and completely wrecked me! 5+ Stars!
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.*
January 11, 2017
It took me awhile to figure out what I wanted my review to say, this novel has blown me away. After The Break seriously did me in for a bit, the story is amazing, the characters are captivating and engaging from the start, the sex is divine.
I love a dual POV novel, and this is one of the best that I have read. We get inside Liam’s thoughts, how he has tortured himself, how he feels .. lost but still so strong and determined. Sky is lost within herself too, but like Liam strong for so many other people. When these two get together, it is fun and fireworks. This novel is a little bit of a roller coaster of feelings, I loved it devoured it! I can’t wait for Andrea Joan to write more, this novel is like crack, the first one hooks you, you know you’re going to need more to survive!
I love a dual POV novel, and this is one of the best that I have read. We get inside Liam’s thoughts, how he has tortured himself, how he feels .. lost but still so strong and determined. Sky is lost within herself too, but like Liam strong for so many other people. When these two get together, it is fun and fireworks. This novel is a little bit of a roller coaster of feelings, I loved it devoured it! I can’t wait for Andrea Joan to write more, this novel is like crack, the first one hooks you, you know you’re going to need more to survive!
February 13, 2017
Oh. My. God. I want a love like this! I was hooked after the first pages, and this book did not disappoint. Liam and Skylar were both damaged by their past, but together, they were whole again. I loved every single page!
May 31, 2018
Total book hangover! Absolutely loved <3
So I had read the summary and saw the cover and not to be a brat but didn't really think I'd be in to it....so I read a few of the reviews and figured why not and bought it, literally finished in like 4 hours! Could not put it down, absolutely loved it! Totally glad I took the chance and didn't "judge a book by its cover" lol and now I can't wait for Cass and Shylas's story! <3
So I had read the summary and saw the cover and not to be a brat but didn't really think I'd be in to it....so I read a few of the reviews and figured why not and bought it, literally finished in like 4 hours! Could not put it down, absolutely loved it! Totally glad I took the chance and didn't "judge a book by its cover" lol and now I can't wait for Cass and Shylas's story! <3
July 18, 2017
Andrea Joan perfectly combined light and dark in this book. From the beginning you know there is darkness luring somewhere ready to be unleashed. The chemistry and banter of these characters makes you sometimes forget they are tortured souls and then bam....there is the reminder.
I never thought one man could be so many different things, tortured, dark an asshole and at time sweet, funny and fucking adorable. All of my favorite ingredients and add Irish to the mix this bitch was a gushy mess
I fucking love Sky and her awkwardness. I can't count how many times she made me laugh with her weird questions. I mean i think i would become the same blubbering mess if Liam was in front of me. For a Hollywood starlet she was soo relatable, adorable and funny.
Ioved the chemistry between Sky and Liam, they seemed like long lost best friends and lovers. The darkness inside them was what attracted them to eachother, but light is what they gave each other.
“Woman, stop arguing and mount me."
What i wouldn't give for Liam to say that to me. 😣
Oh and thank you Andrea Joan for reminding me of the two girls one cup video, i thought i had erased that from my mind. 😣
#AndreaJoan #AfterTheBreak
I never thought one man could be so many different things, tortured, dark an asshole and at time sweet, funny and fucking adorable. All of my favorite ingredients and add Irish to the mix this bitch was a gushy mess
I fucking love Sky and her awkwardness. I can't count how many times she made me laugh with her weird questions. I mean i think i would become the same blubbering mess if Liam was in front of me. For a Hollywood starlet she was soo relatable, adorable and funny.
Ioved the chemistry between Sky and Liam, they seemed like long lost best friends and lovers. The darkness inside them was what attracted them to eachother, but light is what they gave each other.
“Woman, stop arguing and mount me."
What i wouldn't give for Liam to say that to me. 😣
Oh and thank you Andrea Joan for reminding me of the two girls one cup video, i thought i had erased that from my mind. 😣
#AndreaJoan #AfterTheBreak
January 7, 2017
~4.5 stars
I'm so glad I got to review this one early. Andrea has a lot of talent and this book proves that. This story draws you in, wrecks you and then puts you back together again. I love that Andrea didn't just TELL you what they were feeling, she SHOWED you. That is talent right there and that is what Andrea has is spades. This is her debut book people. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.
I love slow burn romance books. The build up, the suspense, the ANGST! Gahhh I can't get enough of it. The story had great flow and the characters were well-developed. I just loved the banter between Liam and Skyler. Liam was an alpha who had his flaws and has to work through them. Skyler has a good life on the outside but in reality it's nowhere near perfect. The chemistry between these two is off the charts and is so intense that you know it's either going to destroy them or bring them together forever.
This story is one you can't put down. It's one that you will finish and think about for days. Great job Andrea and thank you so much for letting me read it early.
ARC in exchange for honest review
I'm so glad I got to review this one early. Andrea has a lot of talent and this book proves that. This story draws you in, wrecks you and then puts you back together again. I love that Andrea didn't just TELL you what they were feeling, she SHOWED you. That is talent right there and that is what Andrea has is spades. This is her debut book people. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.
I love slow burn romance books. The build up, the suspense, the ANGST! Gahhh I can't get enough of it. The story had great flow and the characters were well-developed. I just loved the banter between Liam and Skyler. Liam was an alpha who had his flaws and has to work through them. Skyler has a good life on the outside but in reality it's nowhere near perfect. The chemistry between these two is off the charts and is so intense that you know it's either going to destroy them or bring them together forever.
This story is one you can't put down. It's one that you will finish and think about for days. Great job Andrea and thank you so much for letting me read it early.
ARC in exchange for honest review
February 7, 2017
“She is my redemption. My destruction. But she is mine. Even if it ruins us both.”
I love this feeling! That high you get after reading a novel that completely consumes you that the rest of the world falls away because the story and characters are completely mesmerizing! After The Break truly has it all… ANGST, heartbreak, loss, love, original story line, and flawed characters that you love right from the start and stand behind because you want to see them succeed. I am still shocked that this is Andrea Joan’s first novel because… WOW! If I didn’t know any better I would say After The Break was written by a seasoned author writing her third or forth book!
“She’s a sinner and a savior. And she has chosen me. She needs my protection and I. Need. Her. I know I can protect her. I know I can destroy her.”
afterthebreak1Liam and Skylar’s love story is anything but ordinary. She’s a famous actress and Hollywood’s it girl. He’s an ex-boxing champion suffering from a loss that nearly killed him. Both are flawed and broken but find peace and strength in one another to carry on and keep fighting. Their slow burning romance frustrated and excited me all at once. It was laced with danger and secrets hidden behind fear and the perfect persona they have to show the rest of the world. I could not get enough of their story. The drama, angst, suspense, danger, ANGST…. had me hooked from page one.
Andrea Joan’s writing is flawless and unexpected as it sucks you into this raw and dangerously sexy romance. Plus the humor and witty banter between the characters is not to be over looked. I can’t could the times this novel had me cracking up from something they said or holding my breath during an intense scene between Liam an Skylar. It’s breathtakingly beautiful and one of this years must read novels!
p.s. Carl can go step on some Legos, fall on his face, and break every bone in his body. If you couldn’t tell I hate him.
XX,
Jennifer
I love this feeling! That high you get after reading a novel that completely consumes you that the rest of the world falls away because the story and characters are completely mesmerizing! After The Break truly has it all… ANGST, heartbreak, loss, love, original story line, and flawed characters that you love right from the start and stand behind because you want to see them succeed. I am still shocked that this is Andrea Joan’s first novel because… WOW! If I didn’t know any better I would say After The Break was written by a seasoned author writing her third or forth book!
“She’s a sinner and a savior. And she has chosen me. She needs my protection and I. Need. Her. I know I can protect her. I know I can destroy her.”
afterthebreak1Liam and Skylar’s love story is anything but ordinary. She’s a famous actress and Hollywood’s it girl. He’s an ex-boxing champion suffering from a loss that nearly killed him. Both are flawed and broken but find peace and strength in one another to carry on and keep fighting. Their slow burning romance frustrated and excited me all at once. It was laced with danger and secrets hidden behind fear and the perfect persona they have to show the rest of the world. I could not get enough of their story. The drama, angst, suspense, danger, ANGST…. had me hooked from page one.
Andrea Joan’s writing is flawless and unexpected as it sucks you into this raw and dangerously sexy romance. Plus the humor and witty banter between the characters is not to be over looked. I can’t could the times this novel had me cracking up from something they said or holding my breath during an intense scene between Liam an Skylar. It’s breathtakingly beautiful and one of this years must read novels!
p.s. Carl can go step on some Legos, fall on his face, and break every bone in his body. If you couldn’t tell I hate him.
XX,
Jennifer
December 16, 2016
You guys, Andrea Joan is about to be a best selling author in next to no time.
After the Break is heartbreakingly beautiful, strong, and so beautiful. Disaster and heartbreak, love and a gay best friend. Everything a fantastic novel requires.
Outside of those details, Andrea just has this incredible way with words. Her imagery is one to be rivaled. For example, this line- "It was like watching the sun peek out of dark clouds on an otherwise stormy day." While alone it may not be as dramatic, or as heart stopping, but when it's read in context... it's just amazing! Just the phrasing, and the way that sentence flows is beautiful. It encompasses the beauty that can be done with the written word.
I tend to highlight errors in my ebooks blue, so I can send them to the authors, and use them to back up my opinion when discussing this matter, however I had virtually no error highlights; yet this is somehow my most highlighted book. (Good highlights are yellow; usually quotes and funny snapshots of characters personalities-- example-- "I swear, if Liam keeps this accusatory attitude up, I will throat punch him right out of this plane the second we hit cruising altitude." Because, HELLO! So funny!)
Anyways, Andrea truly is in a league of her own is this writing business, and I just cannot wait for you to meet Skylar, Liam, Noah, and Shayla!
After the Break is heartbreakingly beautiful, strong, and so beautiful. Disaster and heartbreak, love and a gay best friend. Everything a fantastic novel requires.
Outside of those details, Andrea just has this incredible way with words. Her imagery is one to be rivaled. For example, this line- "It was like watching the sun peek out of dark clouds on an otherwise stormy day." While alone it may not be as dramatic, or as heart stopping, but when it's read in context... it's just amazing! Just the phrasing, and the way that sentence flows is beautiful. It encompasses the beauty that can be done with the written word.
I tend to highlight errors in my ebooks blue, so I can send them to the authors, and use them to back up my opinion when discussing this matter, however I had virtually no error highlights; yet this is somehow my most highlighted book. (Good highlights are yellow; usually quotes and funny snapshots of characters personalities-- example-- "I swear, if Liam keeps this accusatory attitude up, I will throat punch him right out of this plane the second we hit cruising altitude." Because, HELLO! So funny!)
Anyways, Andrea truly is in a league of her own is this writing business, and I just cannot wait for you to meet Skylar, Liam, Noah, and Shayla!
February 15, 2017
I liked it! I can't wait to read book 2. That's a couple I'm dying to read about.
March 21, 2017
I'm torn on this one. This book was just okay for me, I didn't hate it but I didn't love it. The writing was better than most I have read in this genre. What I enjoyed was that this didn't feel like a debut novel, but I guess it shouldn't since the author took years to write it.
Overall the characters were well developed, but I didn't care for them. Something was missing for me to even care about their lives and struggles. Liam grated on every nerve in my body, but at the same time I understood why the character was the way he was. Skylar was a bag of wet hair, she was lifeless and immature on many occasions. And she was so flaky. However, as irritating as the character was, it was a good thing. I imagine that someone who grew up with her life would have these personality traits. So as I said, I personally didn't care for either of them but they were well rounded in their personalities. (Hope that makes sense.)
The relationship was comprised of miscommunication which led to angsty over the top sex. I enjoyed the dialogue at times, but it seemed that nearly everything was a joke to these two characters.
This book was entirely too long, and there were scenes I could have done without.
Obviously I am in the minority here. I would read more from this author in the future.
Overall the characters were well developed, but I didn't care for them. Something was missing for me to even care about their lives and struggles. Liam grated on every nerve in my body, but at the same time I understood why the character was the way he was. Skylar was a bag of wet hair, she was lifeless and immature on many occasions. And she was so flaky. However, as irritating as the character was, it was a good thing. I imagine that someone who grew up with her life would have these personality traits. So as I said, I personally didn't care for either of them but they were well rounded in their personalities. (Hope that makes sense.)
The relationship was comprised of miscommunication which led to angsty over the top sex. I enjoyed the dialogue at times, but it seemed that nearly everything was a joke to these two characters.
This book was entirely too long, and there were scenes I could have done without.
Obviously I am in the minority here. I would read more from this author in the future.
January 13, 2017
It feels like I've been wanting for this book FOR-EVER. Let me tell you, it was well worth the wait!! After the Break is one of those books that there's never a high enough rating for. One of those books that I want to read as slow as I can to make it last, but at the same time wanting to devour it.
I actually felt nostalgic while reading it. It brought me back three years ago when I first got sucked into the book world when my first reads were Abbi Glines, Colleen Hoover, Jamie McGuire, and Jessica Sorensen. THIS BOOK reminded me of those authors that started my love for reading.
Skylar and Liam were both broken people that I wanted to reach into my kindle and give them a hug. Skylar was such a likable heroine who also happened to have a kickass name. Liam was an alpha that made my heart melt on more than one occasion. The chemistry between them was UNBELIEVABLE. There was some pretty amazing supporting characters that I couldn't get enough of.
I already want more and can't wait for Andrea's next book!!!
February 20, 2017
OMG! I... I don't know what to say!
WHAT AN UNBELIEVABLY WONDERFUL DEBUT NOVEL!
After The Break is so FULL OF EMOTIONS - the good and the bad ones! I laughed, I swooned, I cried, I was so thrilled to find out what'll happen next! I LOVED this book sooooooooooooo much!
It was INTENSE! SO F*CKING INTENSE!
Andrea Joan really knows how to write an unbelievably awesome book!
The characters are wonderful! Skylar & Liam - the main characters have to deal with a lot of problems but both are so perfect for each other! There's so much affection and they've such a great and special chemistry! It's EPIC!
I'm so in love with Skylar! I had a connection to her while I enjoyed this book!
Well... okay I don't wanna tell you too much about this book because YOU HAVE TO READ IT! ♡
Oh and believe me when I say:
YOU'LL INSTANTLY FALL IN LOVE WITH LIAM!
He's such a great guy! You've to meet him! He's not the typical book boyfriend like all the others! He's REALLY SPECIAL! Such a kinda dark but at the same time great character. I fell in love with him from the beginning! I dont have the perfect words to describe him because he's just too special to be described! READ THIS BOOK AND YOU'LL KNOW WHAT I MEAN!
SERIOUSLY! FALL IN LOVE WITH SKYLAR AND LIAM NOW! ♡
WHAT AN UNBELIEVABLY WONDERFUL DEBUT NOVEL!
After The Break is so FULL OF EMOTIONS - the good and the bad ones! I laughed, I swooned, I cried, I was so thrilled to find out what'll happen next! I LOVED this book sooooooooooooo much!
It was INTENSE! SO F*CKING INTENSE!
Andrea Joan really knows how to write an unbelievably awesome book!
The characters are wonderful! Skylar & Liam - the main characters have to deal with a lot of problems but both are so perfect for each other! There's so much affection and they've such a great and special chemistry! It's EPIC!
I'm so in love with Skylar! I had a connection to her while I enjoyed this book!
Well... okay I don't wanna tell you too much about this book because YOU HAVE TO READ IT! ♡
Oh and believe me when I say:
YOU'LL INSTANTLY FALL IN LOVE WITH LIAM!
He's such a great guy! You've to meet him! He's not the typical book boyfriend like all the others! He's REALLY SPECIAL! Such a kinda dark but at the same time great character. I fell in love with him from the beginning! I dont have the perfect words to describe him because he's just too special to be described! READ THIS BOOK AND YOU'LL KNOW WHAT I MEAN!
SERIOUSLY! FALL IN LOVE WITH SKYLAR AND LIAM NOW! ♡
March 14, 2018
I just finished this book and I'm blown away that this is Andrea Joan's debut novel. This book reads like a very experienced writer wrote it. This isn't your typical "celebrity girl, has it all" story. Liam is such a tortured, tantalizing soul. He loves with everything in him and wants nothing more than to protect those that he loves. Skylar is broken but beautiful. She is a spitfire and I loved her. Honestly, I want to be best friends with her. Both characters have been dealt a difficult hand, which has you rooting for both from page one. I enjoyed all the twist and turns, and not knowing certain details until Joan wanted me to.
I love with main characters embrace their flaws and love each other through them. After the Break is about owning those flaws, having faith that those you love will love you through them, and enduring all the ups and downs. I really can't say enough about this book! After reading her debut novel, I can tell you that Andrea Joan is going places! She's going to make it big and it'll be well deserved.
"We aren’t broken people, we never were. In fact we are far from it. We are fighters. Survivors."
I love with main characters embrace their flaws and love each other through them. After the Break is about owning those flaws, having faith that those you love will love you through them, and enduring all the ups and downs. I really can't say enough about this book! After reading her debut novel, I can tell you that Andrea Joan is going places! She's going to make it big and it'll be well deserved.
"We aren’t broken people, we never were. In fact we are far from it. We are fighters. Survivors."
February 10, 2017
After the Break is darkly hot, a slow burn that will leave you aching for more. The chemical connection between Liam and Skylar is lethally passionate. It's intense, heartbreaking and beautiful.
Hello Liam . . .
The author's writing is fresh and detailed and the story flows seamlessly from scene to scene. You would never guess this is Andrea Joan's debut novel because the storytelling is outstanding.
This book is not for the faint of heart, seriously, if you are looking for a bubbly, sweet romance this is NOT that book. If you are looking for a smartly written story, with clever dialogue and perfectly flawed characters - THIS is that book.
It's raw. It's real. It's emotionally consuming.
Five stars! KUDOS to Andrea Joan for writing an impassioned book about the darker side of the business that is Hollywood.
Hello Liam . . .
The author's writing is fresh and detailed and the story flows seamlessly from scene to scene. You would never guess this is Andrea Joan's debut novel because the storytelling is outstanding.
This book is not for the faint of heart, seriously, if you are looking for a bubbly, sweet romance this is NOT that book. If you are looking for a smartly written story, with clever dialogue and perfectly flawed characters - THIS is that book.
It's raw. It's real. It's emotionally consuming.
Five stars! KUDOS to Andrea Joan for writing an impassioned book about the darker side of the business that is Hollywood.
February 16, 2017
I got about 2 chapter in and thought "Where the hell have I been? Why haven't I read this author before??" and was extremely mad at myself. I went to look up more books to purchase when I realized this was her debut novel. WHAT?
This was one of the best books I've read in a long time. These poor souls sucked me in from page one and kept me captivated and on the edge of my seat until the very end. Absolutely amazing.
I can't wait for more!!!
This was one of the best books I've read in a long time. These poor souls sucked me in from page one and kept me captivated and on the edge of my seat until the very end. Absolutely amazing.
I can't wait for more!!!
October 18, 2017
Wow! Loved it. Fantastic read about Liam and Skylar. Skylar is a huge actress and Liam is a broken boxer working in his family bar in an island.
A beautiful story of a broken couple that find love within tragedy. Will definitely read again and can not wait for Cass and Shayla (Liam's little sister) book
A beautiful story of a broken couple that find love within tragedy. Will definitely read again and can not wait for Cass and Shayla (Liam's little sister) book
February 5, 2017
Before finding out Skylar's "secret' i thought she didnt deserve Liam, but honestly its one of my favorites .
February 6, 2017
3.5 Stars...
January 31, 2017
Can't wait to read the next one!
May 7, 2017
Hard to believe this is Andrea Joan's first novel, but man she made it a good one.
Liam O'Connor was just what I needed after Travis Maddox.
I had a book hangover, I couldn't find anything that interested me.
Until I found Liam.
He was my replacement drug, my new book boyfriend.
Unfortunately only for 2 days because that is how fast I went through this book.
But Oh Liam,
those 2 days, you made it all worth it,
every word,
every muscle,
every movement,
every emotion,
every break up,
every heartbreak,
every tear.
Liam is brutal, raw, honest, real, animalistic and full of desire and lust.
He is also genuine and caring, protective and alone, alone with the feelings and memories that haunt him.
He is everything a girl wants but he is so broken. And we just want to pick up all the pieces of his heart and put it back together. There have been many girls. Many tried, many failed.
Until .... Skylar, a girl just as broken as him. In a different way. But just what he needed.
She pushes him to the edge,
she challenges him,
she tests him,
she breaks him,
and she puts him back together.
Oh Liam,
Oh Skylar,
Oh Andrea Joan,
thank you for the rollercoaster. I loved every minute and page of it.
I can not wait to meet you again Liam, in a sequel, a re-read or in my dreams.
Until then, Andrea.... keep writing!
Liam O'Connor was just what I needed after Travis Maddox.
I had a book hangover, I couldn't find anything that interested me.
Until I found Liam.
He was my replacement drug, my new book boyfriend.
Unfortunately only for 2 days because that is how fast I went through this book.
But Oh Liam,
those 2 days, you made it all worth it,
every word,
every muscle,
every movement,
every emotion,
every break up,
every heartbreak,
every tear.
Liam is brutal, raw, honest, real, animalistic and full of desire and lust.
He is also genuine and caring, protective and alone, alone with the feelings and memories that haunt him.
He is everything a girl wants but he is so broken. And we just want to pick up all the pieces of his heart and put it back together. There have been many girls. Many tried, many failed.
Until .... Skylar, a girl just as broken as him. In a different way. But just what he needed.
She pushes him to the edge,
she challenges him,
she tests him,
she breaks him,
and she puts him back together.
Oh Liam,
Oh Skylar,
Oh Andrea Joan,
thank you for the rollercoaster. I loved every minute and page of it.
I can not wait to meet you again Liam, in a sequel, a re-read or in my dreams.
Until then, Andrea.... keep writing!
January 20, 2019
~~Warning: Please note this novel contains explicit sexual content and crude language and is intended for mature audiences. Some subject matter may be difficult for persons who have been victims of rape or abuse. Parental/reader discretion is advised.
This was an absolutely amazing read and it was Andrea Joan's debut novel! Say WHAT!!
This alternated between Skylar and Liam's POV and I am a huge fan of the dual POV.
Liam O’Connor is an ex-fighter, now working at the family and is living in a day-to-day nightmare of his one past mistake.
Skylar Barrett, is a Hollywood actress trying to put her life together and dealing with her own issues from the past.
This book as it all angst, humor, secrets, love, hot sex! Their story is so heartbreaking but watching them heal each other, as well as themselves….beautiful! My heart was on one hell of an emotional roller-coaster throughout, from the first page to the last!
Highly recommend this book!
This was an absolutely amazing read and it was Andrea Joan's debut novel! Say WHAT!!
This alternated between Skylar and Liam's POV and I am a huge fan of the dual POV.
Liam O’Connor is an ex-fighter, now working at the family and is living in a day-to-day nightmare of his one past mistake.
Skylar Barrett, is a Hollywood actress trying to put her life together and dealing with her own issues from the past.
This book as it all angst, humor, secrets, love, hot sex! Their story is so heartbreaking but watching them heal each other, as well as themselves….beautiful! My heart was on one hell of an emotional roller-coaster throughout, from the first page to the last!
Highly recommend this book!
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