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Healing Bonds #1

My Broken Mate

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My Broken Mate is a shifter romance novel with a happy-go-lucky female lead and a deeply traumatized male lead. It has a strong focus on family bonds as well. It also includes an M/M side-couple.

While it's book 1 of a series, it does not end on a cliffhanger; howevercertain loose threads concerning side-characters will be wrapped up in future installments. Each book will follow a new couple and end with a HEA.


~

Ever since her eldest brother became the alpha, Katalina’s status in the pack rose. While she and her brothers are dealing with the trauma of their past, Kata tries to stay true to herself, determined to help others whenever she can.

In a neighbour pack, Remy's family is struggling. His older brother is the new alpha, trying to keep the family and pack from falling apart. Their cruel, abusive father is dead, but the damage he left behind runs deep.

At nineteen Remy still hasn’t gotten his wolf, pushing him deeper and deeper into a state of depression.

When the paths of these two families cross, it’s like two worlds are colliding. One family sticks together despite their trauma, while the other struggles to remain close.

What will happen when Kata and Remy meet for the first time?

~

The book contains scenes of an adult nature, including mature scenes, mentions of abuse and childhood trauma, and strong language. Not meant for anyone under the age of 18.

Includes tropes such

- She falls first, he falls harder
- Trauma healing
- Sunshine x Grump
- Slow burn
- Fated mates

424 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 3, 2025

38 people are currently reading
22 people want to read

About the author

Isa Rinner

17 books198 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Syrinejude.
5 reviews
August 4, 2025
Emotional, slow-burn, and beautifully healing.

This story is different—it’s not your typical werewolf romance. It focuses on two families and how their relationships, past traumas, and personal struggles shape the way they connect with one another. Kata has her own emotional wounds—not from her brothers, who are loving and supportive—but from her childhood.

She’s the product of her father's affair and grew up in the same house as his wife, who mistreated her in secret. Because of that, Kata grew up constantly doubting her worth. She struggles to say no, often putting others first just to feel accepted and needed.

Remy, on the other hand, carries the weight of deep trauma too—but his story unfolds gradually. It’s not just a love story—it’s a deeper journey of healing, self-discovery, and learning to trust again. The way the characters are developed is beautifully done. You really get to see how they slowly open up, grow, and begin to heal.

As you read, you’ll find yourself thinking, “So that’s what Remy went through?” You won’t expect the depth of his pain, and that curiosity will keep you turning the pages. You’ll want to finish the story just to understand why he became the way he is—and how he eventually learned to love again.

What I truly appreciated is how their healing doesn’t come instantly or magically. It’s a slow, believable process. Through kindness, patience, and the way they treat each other, both Kata and Remy start to see themselves in a new light—not based on their past, but on how they are truly seen and loved by someone who understands their pain.

It’s a quiet, emotionally honest story about finding peace after pain—and that’s what makes it unforgettable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
4 reviews
August 3, 2025
My Broken Mate is a captivating, emotionally layered paranormal tale that dives deep into the complexities of family, power, betrayal, and healing. Isa Rinner, the author, delivers a truly unique story—unlike anything I’ve read before—that effortlessly blends the grit of dark secrets with the heart of love and redemption.

The novel centers around two alpha families from different packs, each carrying a legacy of secrets, trauma, and survival. Both families consist of three siblings—three brothers in one and two brothers and a sister in the other—and each character is crafted with depth and purpose. One family is haunted by the monstrous secrets of a cruel father, whose past actions shape the very identity of his sons. The other has been cast out and betrayed by their own blood, only to rise in power as one of the older brothers takes on the role of Alpha, breaking the cycle of silence and fear.

What makes this book shine is the dynamic between the siblings and the slow unraveling of long-buried truths. There’s a perfect balance of intensity and tenderness throughout. Just when you think it’s getting too heavy, Rinner lightens the mood with laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt interactions that feel real and raw.

The plot kept me on edge—gripping and unpredictable—and the emotional weight of each twist landed with impact. The way Rinner reveals the history behind each family was masterfully done, allowing readers to feel the pain, pride, and strength of every character.

By the time I reached the last page, I was not only invested—I was hooked. The ending left me craving more, in the best way possible. If you’re looking for a story with pack politics, emotional depth, compelling characters, and just the right amount of light in the dark, My Broken Mate should be next on your list.
52 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2025
Man, Isa really knows how to write broken characters in the most beautiful way. Her characters may be damaged, but they possess this quiet, resilient strength that makes their journeys so powerful. The things they’ve endured—the things they’ve survived—only make their strength more meaningful and moving.

I absolutely loved Remus. He’s so introverted and emotionally guarded, almost robotic at times, but you catch these subtle, beautiful glimpses of a freer, more vulnerable Remus as Kat begins to break through his walls. And Kat? She was amazing. The patience she showed with their bond—even in her confusion and frustration—was so refreshing. She never pushed Remus too hard, never demanded more than he was ready to give, and that level of acceptance was so touching. And Remus did the same for her. They gave each other the space and time to open up on their own terms. It was a slow, careful dance of healing, and I loved every step of it.

And oh my god, if Isa does anything as well as she writes emotional depth, it’s humor. Joel had me dying. I thought no one could top Dave the Human, but Joel is seriously giving him a run for his money. He brought so much levity and personality to the story—just one of many characters with their own trauma, growth, and bonds that make this world feel so rich and real.

So much healing, so many incredible characters, so much heart. This book had everything I love.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Fowler.
201 reviews2 followers
August 3, 2025
My Broken Mate is a shifter romance but it is not part of her Silver Lake Wolf series. Instead, it is a continuation of her characters originally created in the anthology Songs of the Wolf.


The male lead and the female lead are like opposite sides of the same coin.

The female lead, Kat, has both her parents die and is left with her two brothers who have taken over their pack. But where their father was a poor spouse he was a great dad who loved them. And they are a close knit family that support each other easily.

The male lead, Remy, is also orphaned. But when his brothers take over their pack it's difficult for them, their father was abusive towards themselves and their mothers. They don't know how to work together as a family and even though they do love each other they all seem to rub each other the wrong way and trauma continues to rear it's ugly head.

As the families get entangled they all have to heal from their own issues left behind by the past before they can really live in the present with the people they love.

The characters are well written, with complexity and depth. There is some miscommunication trope. I don't know how to explain it without spoilers. Trust the author, it's not badly done.
Profile Image for Kellyanne.
235 reviews4 followers
August 3, 2025
The novel explores the contrasting upbringings of its two main characters, Kat and Remy. Kat, the female lead, comes from a close-knit family. Despite their father being a poor spouse, he was a loving father, and her two brothers have successfully taken over their pack after his and their mother's deaths, providing a strong support system for Kat.

In stark contrast, Remy, the male lead, is also orphaned, but his family dynamic is strained. Their father was abusive towards his sons and their mothers, leaving a legacy of trauma. Remy and his brothers struggle to work together and often clash, despite their underlying love for one another.

As their families become intertwined, both Kat and Remy, along with their loved ones, must confront and heal from their past traumas to fully embrace the present and their relationships.

Although the characters are complex they are well-developed. So if you like a supernatural romance novel, give this a read and see for yourself how Kat and Remy's relationship unfolds.

I am looking forward to seeing what Isa has in store for the next book in the Healing Bond series.

Thank you, Isa, for allowing me to receive an ARC copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving a review with my own thoughts and opinions of this book.
156 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2025
This is book 1 in a new series by Isa Rinner. If you've read Songs of the Wolf, you've already been introduced to these characters.

Kat and Remy are both shifters from neighboring packs that have suffered losses.  Both families have lost their parental figures; one family bands together and ride the tides as a team, and the other is barely keeping afloat. There-in lies one of the quandaries our FMC and MMC find themselves in. Healing after loss and finding themselves again.

Another hurdle is while Kat has her wolf, Remy doesn’t, so he doesn't even feel the mate bond. Their relationship begins to slowly develop out of mutal understanding and taking time to learn one another. So while their is an instant attraction, the love is built brick by brick.

Although the leads are in their early 20s (they're the youngest siblings of each Alpha family), they're rather mature for their age. This book deals with emotional, relational, and personal traumas. Isa Rinner systematically works to overcome each for the leads.

There are plenty of hurdles for them to overcome (even some they dont realize are hurdles), and as they work their way through the book, they find their strength together and as individuals. This book was well written with a lot of emotional depth.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of My Broken Mate by Isa Rinner
Profile Image for Fhatuwani Nthakheni.
43 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2025
This book was so refreshing in a way that touches how people can seem ok but they are going through the most. It follows Kat who is part of a family that sticks together and fights for each other. Her family knows how to be their true selves and not be apologetic about it. Remmy comes from a family that didn't know love having grown up under an iron fist. He struggles to accept himself because he sees so many negative things in himself and those around him, even though he has so much.

They each have their own issues of self-doubt, not enough, believing that they don't deserve what truly belongs to them. They get to the point of realizing who they are individually and then are better together. Remmy and Kat find a way to accept themselves and be there for each other as friends first and as a couple and ultimately as mates. Thier brokenness brings them together and they start the process of healing together and to be the best versions of themselves. This book really made sure to not skip parts and brought out their weaknesses.

Read this book if you are looking for something different but refreshing, it is a page turner and a wonderful read. Isa really brought the character's alive, love it.
Profile Image for Alimay.
561 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2025
HEALING

This is book 1 in a new series from the talented Isa Rinner. When I pick up an Isa Rinner book I know I am going to read something that is plot driven and while this is the story of Katalina and Remy the bonds they heal are not just their own. A multi point of view story, showing so many broken and traumatised characters all needing healing. I really enjoyed this book with all the character growth and rebuilding relations, love on so many different levels and forms. A truly holistic novel that doesn't disappoint. Great world building, low level but wonderful steam, and writing that will engage the reader.
13 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2025
Kata and Remy - I absolutely love all Isa Rinner books, she is definitely one of my authors that will always be a one click to purchase.

I loved this book and all the quotes “I wish I could freeze this moment and keep it forever” You definitely get all the feels with this book and can’t help feel sorry for Remy. Kata was definitely the right mate for him. You get to really feel like you’re there with them, through the funny moments, serious times and of course sad times. It was great to see how they all grew, not only as mates but, family too, with the others. Can’t wait to read more.
24 reviews
August 7, 2025
This book was so raw and real I couldn't put it down.
I've read many of Isa Rinner's books, but this one has become a firm favourite! She was able to accurately and delicately follow multiple characters and build their history and emotions to the point that I felt I knew each and every one of them.
The storyline kept me hooked throughout and I loved that it wasn't a case of waiting until the very end for the main characters to realise their love for each other.
I'm so ready for the next book in this series, I just HAVE to know about the rest of the family!
Profile Image for Cyndi Taylor.
542 reviews5 followers
August 9, 2025
Watching these families come together and work on healing their bonds after trauma was really emotionally charged. I love how this author doesn't shy away from hard subjects but talks about them with grace and understanding. The main couple in this fit so well together. I enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. The main female did such a good job of walking through the hard subjects with her mate.

Check the trigger warnings for this book. Though they are only talked about and not shown, it might be hard for some people.
149 reviews3 followers
August 3, 2025
Beautifully written new series from Isa Rinner. Kat and Remus story was full of intrigue, family secrets, trauma, healing a s resilience. I was captivated from the first page. Some worthy mention characters are Joel, who really captured the essence of an easy-going, funny guy. My favorite side character is Gabriel. I can't wait to read about his life. This is not from the Silverlake Series which is also AMAZING!!!!
21 reviews5 followers
August 4, 2025
I had been waiting for the rest of this book since the beginning of it was in Song of the Wolf. I loved reading every minute of it and already can’t wait for the next. This is the first book I’ve read by Isa and I’m definitely not disappointed. Remy and Kata bond is wonderful and it was amazing to read it coming together. I look forward to continuing this series and for everyone else to find a mate whether it is fated or chosen!
Profile Image for Carissa.
56 reviews2 followers
August 8, 2025
This book is deep. It is an emotional slow-burn exploring the contrasting upbringing of the two main characters, both orphaned. The female lead, Kat, comes from a close-knit family. The male lead, Remy, has a strained relationship with his family. When they are brought together, it forces them to confront their issues and heal from their past traumas. I loved seeing how all the characters grew. This book was well-written with excellent character development. It was very heartfelt.
2 reviews
August 20, 2025
This was my first book from Isa Rinner. I hope she'll write more books in this series. I loved how she built a universe a little by little, adding more details to the backgrounds of the characters, letting them grow by meeting each other. Coming from very different worlds - by upbringing, traditions in their families, they change and heal from their past traumas. A bit slow in the beginning, the story captivated me and didn't let go until the last page.
Profile Image for Ashley Cowan.
23 reviews
September 1, 2025
Emotional ride that is so worth it!

This is the first book I’ve read from Isa Rinner and I was refreshing to read a shifter romance that did not fill the typical pattern of most shifter romance books. This book was an emotional ride throughout the story. There’s trauma, healing, love and a happily ever after. I cannot wait to read more of Isa’s books and I would definitely recommend this to anyone who love a good shift romance.
Profile Image for Taylor C.
82 reviews
February 4, 2026
Werewolves, Love, Family, Friends, and Healing from Trauma.

I love this book, with out a doubt one of my top favorite books. There are quite a lot of points where I relate with the characters but mostly with some of the thought processes of Katalina and Remy especially Katalina. The moments between Kata and Remy warm my heart. Their friends are also such good friends for them and each other. I think this book will always have a very welcome place in my heart.
Profile Image for L'Oreal Smith.
16 reviews
August 5, 2025
Meet Katalina and Remy, two werewolves with enough emotional baggage to last a lifetime. When Katalina realises they are mates, she does everything in her power to help Remy heal from his trauma. In doing so, she starts to come to terms with her own trauma.
This was a very heavy book to read, but so so worth it!
Give it a try-it might help you deal with your own challenges as well.
Profile Image for Rika R.
19 reviews
August 7, 2025
A Beautiful Slow Burn from a Trusted Voice

This novel is a slow burn that quietly grows on you — emotionally rich yet easy to read, even as the lead characters navigate deep personal traumas. I’ve followed Isa Rinner since the SilverLake Wolves series, which I love so much, and this book delivers the same thoughtful, rewarding storytelling. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Steffanie Youman.
11 reviews
August 10, 2025
This was not what I was expecting when it came to a shifter romance. It was even better! The slow burn to an amazing relationship between the main characters was stunning. It also touched on mental health issues and the intentional/unintentional pressures of family. It was absolutely amazing, and I can't wait for book 2 to see the stories for the rest of the family 😍😍😍
Profile Image for Gale Albright.
3,016 reviews19 followers
August 5, 2025
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it won’t be the last. This is a different type of shifter book and I enjoyed the intricate storytelling and the different individuals involved. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
27 reviews
August 10, 2025
Absolutely Sweet

Such an incredibly sweet love story. Remy and Kata are both amazing characters and the emotions felt throughout the story make it hard to put the book down!! Absolutely loved it !!
16 reviews
August 6, 2025
Isa has done it again 👏 beautifully written, the worlds Isa creates are stunning and characters are amazing! Highly recommended
5 reviews
August 6, 2025
This is an amazing read. I really love the story between the 2 families. Well thought out book. I can’t wait for book 2.
71 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2025
Isa Rinner wrote yet another fantastic book! I enjoyed the entire story and can't wait for the book!
Profile Image for Nabilah.
10 reviews
August 11, 2025
absolutely loved it ! got me out of my reading slump and made absolutely emotional !! 5/5⭐️ duh.
20 reviews
August 19, 2025
Wow

I loved this book. The story line had depth, it took me through all the emotions. Laughter, sadness, anger, frustration, but totally worth it.
Profile Image for Stephanie Strader.
38 reviews
September 4, 2025
I went into this expecting a typical shifter romance, but what I got was so much more. This story is deeply emotional, beautifully written, and packed with heart. The characters feel real, their struggles are raw, and the way the story unfolds kept me hooked from the first chapter.

Katalina is a standout lead — strong, grounded, and genuinely kind. Even as she works through her own past, she’s always looking for ways to support others. Her relationship with her brothers is one of my favorite parts of the book — loyal, protective, and full of depth.

Then there’s Remy, who completely stole my heart. At 19, he still hasn’t shifted, and the emotional weight of that — on top of everything he’s been through — is written with so much care and honesty. His story isn’t just about finding his wolf; it’s about finding himself again after years of hurt. It’s impossible not to root for him.

The dynamic between the two families was really compelling — one trying to heal together, the other barely holding on. When Kata and Remy’s paths cross, it feels like two worlds colliding in the best way. Their connection is slow-burning and believable, and watching them open up to each other felt incredibly satisfying.

If you're looking for a shifter story that dives deeper than most — one that’s just as much about healing and family as it is about romance — this is a must-read. Thoughtful, heartfelt, and impossible to put down. I'm really hoping the main characters' siblings get their own books!!
44 reviews
September 18, 2025
"no matter how big your problems are, you are not alone. The world is so big. Right at this time, someone else might be looking up at the sky and facing their own demons. We are not alone.”

My Broken Mate is a shifter romance novel involving two alphas who have starkly different lives and personalities. Katalina is a happy people pleasing female alpha and Remy is a stoic wolf-less alpha, though both of them have past trauma. The two very different families paths cross, but is it more than fate? Will they be able to save each other from their past?

This book deeply portrayed the emotional perceptions and struggles of the characters. She really delves into Remy's depression. Additionally, how the families' dynamics were and how they changed by the two families joining. I was shocked at Kata's reveal of her past trauma at the end. The book was good. I enjoy the author's writing style; However, this was not one that hooked me in. It takes a bit to get into, but it was overall a good book!

Tropes Include:
- Werewolves
- Alphas
- She falls first, he falls harder
- Trauma healing
- Sunshine x Grump
- Slow burn
- Fated mates
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews