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Beside the Broken
Blake Pierson is known for being a gentle giant with a heart of gold. After finishing his residency in emergency medicine, he joined the military to take his desire to help others one step further.
When tragedy strikes during a deployment, he returns home carrying a heavy weight of anguish he can’t seem to shake. Struggling more than he lets on, he tries to find his own ways to cope with the demons he’s harboring.
But a night out trying to escape his thoughts brings more than he bargained for, and while he may be out of the combat zone, the war inside his head and heart has only just begun.
Haley Callahan has always worn her rose-colored glasses with pride, accepting her role as a hopeless romantic who gives more than she gets.
But one too many disappointments can cause even the brightest optimist’s shine to dim.
A shake-it-off night out with friends brings her face-to-face with someone she hasn’t seen in over a decade—her brother’s best friend. And one impulsive decision to go home with him changes everything.
Because while a few chance run-ins were expected, when Bayport General hires its newest emergency room physician, he’s the last person the soon-to-be nurse practitioner expected to work side-by-side with.
With Blake’s struggles becoming harder for him to ignore, and cracks forming in Haley’s rose-colored lenses, they find unexpected solace in one another. And despite knowing they’re treading dangerous waters, they can’t stop seeking the comfort the other gives.
Because sometimes, the one thing that’s supposed to be off limits might be the only thing that heals you.
When tragedy strikes during a deployment, he returns home carrying a heavy weight of anguish he can’t seem to shake. Struggling more than he lets on, he tries to find his own ways to cope with the demons he’s harboring.
But a night out trying to escape his thoughts brings more than he bargained for, and while he may be out of the combat zone, the war inside his head and heart has only just begun.
Haley Callahan has always worn her rose-colored glasses with pride, accepting her role as a hopeless romantic who gives more than she gets.
But one too many disappointments can cause even the brightest optimist’s shine to dim.
A shake-it-off night out with friends brings her face-to-face with someone she hasn’t seen in over a decade—her brother’s best friend. And one impulsive decision to go home with him changes everything.
Because while a few chance run-ins were expected, when Bayport General hires its newest emergency room physician, he’s the last person the soon-to-be nurse practitioner expected to work side-by-side with.
With Blake’s struggles becoming harder for him to ignore, and cracks forming in Haley’s rose-colored lenses, they find unexpected solace in one another. And despite knowing they’re treading dangerous waters, they can’t stop seeking the comfort the other gives.
Because sometimes, the one thing that’s supposed to be off limits might be the only thing that heals you.
- GenresRomance
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2025
7 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
About the author
Ani Thomas
3 books36 followersAni is a romance enthusiast fueled by coffee and endless daydreams. She writes heartfelt stories that incorporate angst, humor, and open-door spice with endearing characters and happily ever afters. Born and raised in Upstate New York, she now lives in the South with her husband, three children, and their dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 17, 2025
Ani Thomas knocks it out of the park again with the beautiful Beside the Broken, the third book in her Bayport Cove romance series. I love how all of Ani’s characters in this series are messy with issues to work through that lead to complicated lives and relationships which makes her couples’ love stories feel even more rewarding when they get their HEA. This book and Blake and Haley are no exception and the tropes in this book are amazing. I especially love that no matter how attracted they are to each other, Blake and Haley take some time getting to know each other as friends and colleagues before taking any next steps. Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch Lit Ink for the opportunity to read this early. It truly was a pleasure to read.
November 19, 2025
I have loved getting to visit Bayport Cove while reading this series. I read books 1 and 2 in quick succession and have been waiting for book 3 ever since. I’m so sad this series is over! Blake and Haley’s story was filled with some of the most fun tropes while still remaining unique and engaging. I loved the added element of them both being medical professionals, it reminded me of the POYW series.
Would recommend for fans of Abby Jimenez that are looking for a little coastal town magic :)
Would recommend for fans of Abby Jimenez that are looking for a little coastal town magic :)
November 13, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Beside The Broken
By Ani Thomas
Haley was the only thing that made me feel remotely like my old self, like the unbroken, unmarred version of the man I once was. Wanting her felt natural, but now I realized I was starting to need her, a truth that was both petrifying and the single most comforting thing I’d felt in as long as I could remember.
“You’re okay,” I murmured. “I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere.”
I never once looked at him as something that needed to be fixed. The truth was, I’d fallen for every broken piece before I even realized he was broken. Blake didn’t need to fix the man he was. He needed to heal the man he’d been.
“Tell me something real?” Oh. My. God. this story! It’s just amazing!
When we meet Blake, his trauma is so fresh from his tour and he’s just trying to make it through each day. On the other hand we meet Haley and she is our drama free queen working her butt off as a student and nurse.
I loved the ER scenes and seeing that even though Blake was suffering he still stepped up to help others. We get to see Haley going from Nurse to Nurse Practitioner, accomplishing her goals and those scenes in the ER setting all felt so real and raw, and heartbreaking at times.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, and I just let it. It break my heart, put it back together and then I smiled and said thank you for this gift of a book. I love Blake and Haley so much, their story is definitely a very special one! Congratulations Ani!!! What a story!
Tropes:
Brother’s Best Friend
One Night Stand
Forced Proximity
Ex-Military MMC
Emotional Healing
Doctor/Nurse
Spice Starts at: 14% 🔥
Spice: 2/4🌶️
Stars: 5/5⭐️♾️
Available on Kindle Unlimited Nov 13
Beside The Broken
By Ani Thomas
Haley was the only thing that made me feel remotely like my old self, like the unbroken, unmarred version of the man I once was. Wanting her felt natural, but now I realized I was starting to need her, a truth that was both petrifying and the single most comforting thing I’d felt in as long as I could remember.
“You’re okay,” I murmured. “I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere.”
I never once looked at him as something that needed to be fixed. The truth was, I’d fallen for every broken piece before I even realized he was broken. Blake didn’t need to fix the man he was. He needed to heal the man he’d been.
“Tell me something real?” Oh. My. God. this story! It’s just amazing!
When we meet Blake, his trauma is so fresh from his tour and he’s just trying to make it through each day. On the other hand we meet Haley and she is our drama free queen working her butt off as a student and nurse.
I loved the ER scenes and seeing that even though Blake was suffering he still stepped up to help others. We get to see Haley going from Nurse to Nurse Practitioner, accomplishing her goals and those scenes in the ER setting all felt so real and raw, and heartbreaking at times.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, and I just let it. It break my heart, put it back together and then I smiled and said thank you for this gift of a book. I love Blake and Haley so much, their story is definitely a very special one! Congratulations Ani!!! What a story!
Tropes:
Brother’s Best Friend
One Night Stand
Forced Proximity
Ex-Military MMC
Emotional Healing
Doctor/Nurse
Spice Starts at: 14% 🔥
Spice: 2/4🌶️
Stars: 5/5⭐️♾️
Available on Kindle Unlimited Nov 13
November 13, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 5⭐️ This whole series deserves infinity stars!! Blake has been through a tragedy that forever changes someone. Even worse is he blames himself for what happened no matter how many times he’s told it wasn’t his fault. After being honorably discharged he ends up back in Bayport Cove to heal himself and figure out his path forward. Haley is so close to accomplishing her goal of becoming an NP, and after a string of bad relationships she just wanted to enjoy a night out. What she didn’t expect was her brother’s best friend, Blake to be a part of that picture…but ma what a night it was. Haley blew into Blake’s life like a hurricane and why was supposed to be just one night with a stranger turned into linger glances, growing feelings and a place to heal and get back to the man he once was. She may be off limits in more ways than one but you can’t just ignore a connection that strong. Is it worth the risk when you know it’s the right person?
I laughed. I cried. I felt EVERY. SINGLE. EMOTION. Ani you have truly created magic with this entire series. A piece of my heart will always stay in Bayport Cove. Blake has gone through so much heartache and grief but no matter what he was never alone. There is such a strong element of found family in this story and I love the overlap from the other series. Every single one of his friends and family members rallies around him, but it’s Haley that gives him that place to truly heal himself. The depth in their relationship is so special it might start out with Blake helping Haley but it turns into a beautiful love story of grief and healing and adventure. Haley has always been a hopeless romantic and it’s about time she found her person. Their connection went so much deeper than just a one night stand and I loved watching them fall in love. This story broke my heart only to patch it back up in the best way possible. I promise this is absolutely a series you won’t regret reading!! I’m so sad it’s over but I’m so glad I stumbled upon it back with Beyond the Wall because it just keeps getting better and I can’t wait to see what Ani has in store next!!!
Tropes:
✨One Night Stand
✨Brother’s Best Friend
✨Ex-Military MMC
✨Small Town Romance
✨PTSD/Mental Health Rep
I laughed. I cried. I felt EVERY. SINGLE. EMOTION. Ani you have truly created magic with this entire series. A piece of my heart will always stay in Bayport Cove. Blake has gone through so much heartache and grief but no matter what he was never alone. There is such a strong element of found family in this story and I love the overlap from the other series. Every single one of his friends and family members rallies around him, but it’s Haley that gives him that place to truly heal himself. The depth in their relationship is so special it might start out with Blake helping Haley but it turns into a beautiful love story of grief and healing and adventure. Haley has always been a hopeless romantic and it’s about time she found her person. Their connection went so much deeper than just a one night stand and I loved watching them fall in love. This story broke my heart only to patch it back up in the best way possible. I promise this is absolutely a series you won’t regret reading!! I’m so sad it’s over but I’m so glad I stumbled upon it back with Beyond the Wall because it just keeps getting better and I can’t wait to see what Ani has in store next!!!
Tropes:
✨One Night Stand
✨Brother’s Best Friend
✨Ex-Military MMC
✨Small Town Romance
✨PTSD/Mental Health Rep
November 7, 2025
This was just what I needed to cleanse my heart. Haley and Blake’s story was just so sweet. I was sucked in from the beginning.
Blake absolutely broke my heart and put it back together again. Seeing him suffer and then grow and overcome his inner demons was just what I needed. I wanted to wrap him up in a big hug and tell him he could do it.
Haley was the balm to Blake’s broken heart. They needed each other to grow and overcome their own struggles. I loved seeing the ins and outs of the ER where Haley and Blake both worked. This was probably one of my favorite brothers best friend book I have read. I enjoyed also seeing into the lives of the other characters from past books to see where they were story was going.
If you love brothers best friend, forced proximity, mental health rep, she falls first/he falls harder, one night stand, and small town then i highly recommend this one!
Blake absolutely broke my heart and put it back together again. Seeing him suffer and then grow and overcome his inner demons was just what I needed. I wanted to wrap him up in a big hug and tell him he could do it.
Haley was the balm to Blake’s broken heart. They needed each other to grow and overcome their own struggles. I loved seeing the ins and outs of the ER where Haley and Blake both worked. This was probably one of my favorite brothers best friend book I have read. I enjoyed also seeing into the lives of the other characters from past books to see where they were story was going.
If you love brothers best friend, forced proximity, mental health rep, she falls first/he falls harder, one night stand, and small town then i highly recommend this one!
November 11, 2025
This was such a cute read! Lots of sweet and steamy moments! Blake comes home after he gets a honorable discharge from the military - he’s left dealing with a loss and blames himself for it. He meets Haley at a bar and she recognizes him immediately- but him ? It’ll come to him later. I loved the connection they shared and the way Haley made him feel safe and heard when he was working through his feelings in therapy and making himself a better person for her in the end.
Twas a good one!
Twas a good one!
November 18, 2025
I have been so ready to go back to Bayport Cove. I have loved each of the books in the series, but I think this one might be my favorite.
Blake’s mental health struggles were written so incredibly well. I loved that Haley was able to help him in the most perfect way. They understand and support each other from the get go.
I’m so sad this series is over but I can’t wait to see what Ani comes up with next.
Blake’s mental health struggles were written so incredibly well. I loved that Haley was able to help him in the most perfect way. They understand and support each other from the get go.
I’m so sad this series is over but I can’t wait to see what Ani comes up with next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2025
“Tell me something real.”
↬There’s not enough words in the world to explain how much I love Ani Thomas & her writing.
Returning to Bayport Cove in Beside the Broken, Ani brings forth a story of healing, second chances, and the messy halves we carry when love asks us to become whole again. This book was everything I needed & healed so much in me that I didn't even realize. Something about Ani’s writing is so fresh and unique and does everything to keep you wanting more, not letting you put her words down for a second. Set against a backdrop of heartbreak and second chances, the story follows Blake and Haley, both people bound by pain yet drawn together by the quiet hope of something more. With beautifully raw writing and characters that feel achingly real, Ani Thomas delivers an amazing story about finding light while seemingly lost in the darkness—and learning that even the most shattered hearts & broken spirits can still beat again.
“That’s how it always was with Haley around. Warmer. Lighter. Brighter.”
Haley & Blake were not a couple I was excepting but they’re absolute perfect and perfect together — some people just fit together in a way that feels effortless, like two pieces of a puzzle finally finding where they belong and that’s exactly Blake and Haley. With their relationship, I couldn’t help but think that their love is in no way about being perfect or being perfection, but about balance where one person’s strengths complement the other’s weaknesses, and their differences make them stronger, and altogether whole. Blake and Haley are exactly what they needed in one another. They understand each other without having to explain every thought, share laughter that feels like home, and find comfort in each other’s silence.
There’s so many things I love about Ani & her writing and so much to say but what simply stood out and hit me most was the representation of emotional depth and emotional honesty. In Ani’s writing, she doesn’t shy away from the more vulnerable parts of the characters, which makes the story feel all that much more human and realistic and makes the overall experiences of these characters feel real rather than purely escapist. She doesn’t sugarcoat the uncertainty or pretend the transformation is instant, but instead, the growth feels lived-in with its missteps, doubts, and the small but meaningful moves toward openness and vulnerability when you feel like it’s the hardest ask in the world.
“I was quickly forced to realize that I couldn’t live in a world where she didn't exist.”
Having read the two other previous books in the series, there a sense of easiness and familiarity coming back to Bayport Cove and seeing all these characters I feel like I already know so well! — and the coastal setting is just so feel good, its hard not to love the setting and storyline. Like the setting itself feels like a character — it’s a small town with so many experiences in it, full of emotion, secrets and long-lasting memories. Beside the broken gives a warm sense of coming back home even as new situations and problems are introduced, and I’m sad to see them go after this read but so so excited for what Ani has next planned.
“She was the rare quiet in my storm.”
Beside the Broken tackles themes of redemption, the cost of silence, and the idea that our broken pieces aren’t just liabilities—they can be the foundation of something stronger. For anyone who’s carried regret, feared vulnerability, or wondered if second chances are truly possible, this book speaks to that hope. If you enjoy romance books where the emotional journey matters as much as the romantic payoff, Beside the Broken absolutely without a doubt delivers all of the above. It’s heartfelt, with well-drawn characters and enough tension to keep you engaged. While it doesn’t completely reinvent the genre, it executes its story with care and sincerity & a sense of originality with the storytelling. I’d recommend it to readers who love small town romances, love stories with all the forbidden tension & glances and emotional depth, and readers who appreciate characters who are broken and healing. If you’ve read the first two Bayport Cove books, this is a satisfying continuation, and if you’re new to the series, you’ll still be able to jump in and enjoy the emotional ride and surely fall in love with these characters just as I have!
What to expect in Beside the Broken:
𖹭 Brother’s best friend
𖹭 Small coastal town
𖹭 One night stand
𖹭 She falls first, he falls harder
𖹭 PTSD/mental health rep
𖹭 Ex-military MMC
𖹭 Workplace romance
𖹭 Forced Proximity
𖹭 Emotional healing
𖹭 He’s a dog dad
𖹭 Dual pov / dual timeline
A big warm thank you to the love of my life Ani for letting me have the honor of arc reading this new release, as well as the previous ones and letting me scream about all of the characters in her dm’s on a daily basis & the team at Torchlitink PR for being awesome and amazing and letting me celebrate with you guys!
Beside the Broken releases November 13th, 2025!
↬There’s not enough words in the world to explain how much I love Ani Thomas & her writing.
Returning to Bayport Cove in Beside the Broken, Ani brings forth a story of healing, second chances, and the messy halves we carry when love asks us to become whole again. This book was everything I needed & healed so much in me that I didn't even realize. Something about Ani’s writing is so fresh and unique and does everything to keep you wanting more, not letting you put her words down for a second. Set against a backdrop of heartbreak and second chances, the story follows Blake and Haley, both people bound by pain yet drawn together by the quiet hope of something more. With beautifully raw writing and characters that feel achingly real, Ani Thomas delivers an amazing story about finding light while seemingly lost in the darkness—and learning that even the most shattered hearts & broken spirits can still beat again.
“That’s how it always was with Haley around. Warmer. Lighter. Brighter.”
Haley & Blake were not a couple I was excepting but they’re absolute perfect and perfect together — some people just fit together in a way that feels effortless, like two pieces of a puzzle finally finding where they belong and that’s exactly Blake and Haley. With their relationship, I couldn’t help but think that their love is in no way about being perfect or being perfection, but about balance where one person’s strengths complement the other’s weaknesses, and their differences make them stronger, and altogether whole. Blake and Haley are exactly what they needed in one another. They understand each other without having to explain every thought, share laughter that feels like home, and find comfort in each other’s silence.
There’s so many things I love about Ani & her writing and so much to say but what simply stood out and hit me most was the representation of emotional depth and emotional honesty. In Ani’s writing, she doesn’t shy away from the more vulnerable parts of the characters, which makes the story feel all that much more human and realistic and makes the overall experiences of these characters feel real rather than purely escapist. She doesn’t sugarcoat the uncertainty or pretend the transformation is instant, but instead, the growth feels lived-in with its missteps, doubts, and the small but meaningful moves toward openness and vulnerability when you feel like it’s the hardest ask in the world.
“I was quickly forced to realize that I couldn’t live in a world where she didn't exist.”
Having read the two other previous books in the series, there a sense of easiness and familiarity coming back to Bayport Cove and seeing all these characters I feel like I already know so well! — and the coastal setting is just so feel good, its hard not to love the setting and storyline. Like the setting itself feels like a character — it’s a small town with so many experiences in it, full of emotion, secrets and long-lasting memories. Beside the broken gives a warm sense of coming back home even as new situations and problems are introduced, and I’m sad to see them go after this read but so so excited for what Ani has next planned.
“She was the rare quiet in my storm.”
Beside the Broken tackles themes of redemption, the cost of silence, and the idea that our broken pieces aren’t just liabilities—they can be the foundation of something stronger. For anyone who’s carried regret, feared vulnerability, or wondered if second chances are truly possible, this book speaks to that hope. If you enjoy romance books where the emotional journey matters as much as the romantic payoff, Beside the Broken absolutely without a doubt delivers all of the above. It’s heartfelt, with well-drawn characters and enough tension to keep you engaged. While it doesn’t completely reinvent the genre, it executes its story with care and sincerity & a sense of originality with the storytelling. I’d recommend it to readers who love small town romances, love stories with all the forbidden tension & glances and emotional depth, and readers who appreciate characters who are broken and healing. If you’ve read the first two Bayport Cove books, this is a satisfying continuation, and if you’re new to the series, you’ll still be able to jump in and enjoy the emotional ride and surely fall in love with these characters just as I have!
What to expect in Beside the Broken:
𖹭 Brother’s best friend
𖹭 Small coastal town
𖹭 One night stand
𖹭 She falls first, he falls harder
𖹭 PTSD/mental health rep
𖹭 Ex-military MMC
𖹭 Workplace romance
𖹭 Forced Proximity
𖹭 Emotional healing
𖹭 He’s a dog dad
𖹭 Dual pov / dual timeline
A big warm thank you to the love of my life Ani for letting me have the honor of arc reading this new release, as well as the previous ones and letting me scream about all of the characters in her dm’s on a daily basis & the team at Torchlitink PR for being awesome and amazing and letting me celebrate with you guys!
Beside the Broken releases November 13th, 2025!
November 17, 2025
“𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝���𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡.”
Beside the Broken by Ani Thomas
4.5☆
• brother’s best friend
• small coastal town
• ex-military MMC
• PTSD/mental health rep
• workplace romance
• emotional healing
You know that moment when you understand the title of the book? When it’s clever or has a special meaning? 𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 is both—metaphor and mirror. It speaks to the ways we live next to pain and in pain; that we can fracture more than just our bones but our hearts, where no one else can see.
This book felt like coming home. In this final book of the series, we get a love story that is less about falling and more about learning to stand again. Blake and Haley aren’t perfect people—they’re the kind who’ve been hollowed out by grief, scarred by circumstance, and still somehow brave enough to try again.
"𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙢.”
Haley is warmth like sunlight after a storm, who struggles with accepting ONLY what she deserves. Blake’s quiet battle with guilt & grief is almost all-consuming. But, his devotion is steady, unassuming, and exactly the kind of love that rebuilds what’s been destroyed. One softens where the other hardens. One steadies where the other trembles. They love not in spite of their brokenness, but through it.
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙯𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩.”
One of my favorite things about these books is that the Bayport Cove relationships feel lived-in. These characters aren’t trying to be perfect; they’re trying to be honest. And that’s what makes this story so beautiful. There’s something sacred about the vulnerability—how the healing isn’t rushed or linear. There are setbacks, hesitation, steps forward and then back. The healing in this book is so human.
Through it all, it isn’t just about loving someone through their pain—it’s about allowing ourselves to be loved through ours. That our cracks don’t make us unworthy; they’re proof of the light that got in and the beauty found in the jagged edges.
“𝙄𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙.”
At its heart, this is a story about redemption, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to believe in love again. It’s about how silence costs us, and how letting someone see the hurt doesn’t make us weaker—it makes us seen.
*Thank you to Ani Thomas for the arc opportunity.
Beside the Broken by Ani Thomas
4.5☆
• brother’s best friend
• small coastal town
• ex-military MMC
• PTSD/mental health rep
• workplace romance
• emotional healing
You know that moment when you understand the title of the book? When it’s clever or has a special meaning? 𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 is both—metaphor and mirror. It speaks to the ways we live next to pain and in pain; that we can fracture more than just our bones but our hearts, where no one else can see.
This book felt like coming home. In this final book of the series, we get a love story that is less about falling and more about learning to stand again. Blake and Haley aren’t perfect people—they’re the kind who’ve been hollowed out by grief, scarred by circumstance, and still somehow brave enough to try again.
"𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙢.”
Haley is warmth like sunlight after a storm, who struggles with accepting ONLY what she deserves. Blake’s quiet battle with guilt & grief is almost all-consuming. But, his devotion is steady, unassuming, and exactly the kind of love that rebuilds what’s been destroyed. One softens where the other hardens. One steadies where the other trembles. They love not in spite of their brokenness, but through it.
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙡𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙯𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩.”
One of my favorite things about these books is that the Bayport Cove relationships feel lived-in. These characters aren’t trying to be perfect; they’re trying to be honest. And that’s what makes this story so beautiful. There’s something sacred about the vulnerability—how the healing isn’t rushed or linear. There are setbacks, hesitation, steps forward and then back. The healing in this book is so human.
Through it all, it isn’t just about loving someone through their pain—it’s about allowing ourselves to be loved through ours. That our cracks don’t make us unworthy; they’re proof of the light that got in and the beauty found in the jagged edges.
“𝙄𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙.”
At its heart, this is a story about redemption, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to believe in love again. It’s about how silence costs us, and how letting someone see the hurt doesn’t make us weaker—it makes us seen.
*Thank you to Ani Thomas for the arc opportunity.
November 25, 2025
4 stars ⭐️
I’ve been excited for Blake’s story for a while, and this book ended up being exactly the kind of emotional, steady romance I hoped it would be. Blake comes home carrying some heavy trauma from his deployment, and Haley is in the middle of pushing through school, work, and a pattern of disappointing relationships. When they cross paths again, it’s not dramatic, it’s just two people who weren’t expecting each other, trying their best to make it through their own mess.
What really stood out to me was Blake. His grief and guilt felt real without being exaggerated, and the book doesn’t pretend that healing is quick or easy. Some chapters are hopeful, some are painful, and that mix made his story feel honest. Haley is exactly the kind of person who can meet him where he is, warm, patient, and genuinely good-hearted without being naïve. She brings a lightness to the book that balances his darkness in a way that feels natural.
Their romance builds slowly, and I loved that it wasn’t just “brother’s best friend + instant chemistry.” They actually get to know each other again, especially through the ER scenes. The hospital setting added a lot to their connection and made the story feel grounded instead of overly fluffy.
My only real frustration was with the way some emotional beats were handled. A few moments that should’ve hit hard felt like they were summarized instead of fully lived in. Instead of letting the scene unfold or giving us the raw dialogue and tension, the book sometimes jumps ahead and just tells us how the characters felt. Because of that, a couple big turning points, especially around Blake’s trauma and Haley’s past relationship hurt, didn’t land with the depth they deserved.
I’ve been excited for Blake’s story for a while, and this book ended up being exactly the kind of emotional, steady romance I hoped it would be. Blake comes home carrying some heavy trauma from his deployment, and Haley is in the middle of pushing through school, work, and a pattern of disappointing relationships. When they cross paths again, it’s not dramatic, it’s just two people who weren’t expecting each other, trying their best to make it through their own mess.
What really stood out to me was Blake. His grief and guilt felt real without being exaggerated, and the book doesn’t pretend that healing is quick or easy. Some chapters are hopeful, some are painful, and that mix made his story feel honest. Haley is exactly the kind of person who can meet him where he is, warm, patient, and genuinely good-hearted without being naïve. She brings a lightness to the book that balances his darkness in a way that feels natural.
Their romance builds slowly, and I loved that it wasn’t just “brother’s best friend + instant chemistry.” They actually get to know each other again, especially through the ER scenes. The hospital setting added a lot to their connection and made the story feel grounded instead of overly fluffy.
My only real frustration was with the way some emotional beats were handled. A few moments that should’ve hit hard felt like they were summarized instead of fully lived in. Instead of letting the scene unfold or giving us the raw dialogue and tension, the book sometimes jumps ahead and just tells us how the characters felt. Because of that, a couple big turning points, especially around Blake’s trauma and Haley’s past relationship hurt, didn’t land with the depth they deserved.
November 15, 2025
Huge thank you to torchlitink and Ani Thomas for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review and for being part of the book tour!
Blurb:
Beside The Broken follows the lives of Blake and Haley. Blake is a gentle giant with a heart of gold who has joined the military after finishing his residency. When tragedy strikes during deployment, he returns home carrying a heavy weight he cannot shake. Haley accepts her role as a hopeless romantic who gives more than she gets. A night out with friends brings her face to face with someone she hasn’t seen in over a decade—her brothers best friend. And one impulsive decision to be together changes everything for them.
My Thoughts:
This book was such a beautiful, heartfelt journey! I adored Blake so much and we got to witness what he felt while dealing with his trauma from the military. I come from a military family so I am used to the amount of trauma that can impact a person who serves in any branch of the military. Because of that background, I feel like this book was so relatable to me and I was able to connect to Blake pretty easily. I loved how Haley came into Blake’s life and shook it up! A true and beautiful love blooms between the two of them and Ani Thomas did an amazing job of putting me through the wringer when it comes to emotions. This was the perfect book for the found family trope and Ani Thomas served it well. Blake, who was lost in the darkness of his own mind, was soon surrounded by light and love. There was so much support that formed around him and Haley that I couldn’t help but fall in love with this book. I need to check out the other books in this series!
Blurb:
Beside The Broken follows the lives of Blake and Haley. Blake is a gentle giant with a heart of gold who has joined the military after finishing his residency. When tragedy strikes during deployment, he returns home carrying a heavy weight he cannot shake. Haley accepts her role as a hopeless romantic who gives more than she gets. A night out with friends brings her face to face with someone she hasn’t seen in over a decade—her brothers best friend. And one impulsive decision to be together changes everything for them.
My Thoughts:
This book was such a beautiful, heartfelt journey! I adored Blake so much and we got to witness what he felt while dealing with his trauma from the military. I come from a military family so I am used to the amount of trauma that can impact a person who serves in any branch of the military. Because of that background, I feel like this book was so relatable to me and I was able to connect to Blake pretty easily. I loved how Haley came into Blake’s life and shook it up! A true and beautiful love blooms between the two of them and Ani Thomas did an amazing job of putting me through the wringer when it comes to emotions. This was the perfect book for the found family trope and Ani Thomas served it well. Blake, who was lost in the darkness of his own mind, was soon surrounded by light and love. There was so much support that formed around him and Haley that I couldn’t help but fall in love with this book. I need to check out the other books in this series!
November 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
I love nothing more than a MMC that starts off reserved and unattainable. I love a chase and a good challenge. You know… right up until that special one comes along and snatches his heart right up – enter sweet full-of-sunshine, Haley Callahan. There really is nothing better. Literally in awe of Ani writing the MMC Blake Pierson, he’s this delicious man, with a heart of gold, that is battling all the demons in his head from tragedy while deployed serving his country. This man completely stole my heart. I also really loved Haley and her vibes, but specifically that she seemed to radiate this sunny, bright, emotionally aware energy. She was the perfect FMC to come along and really capture Blake’s attention. Ani wrote her character to absolute perfection.
I really loved that book showed life’s messy complicated twists and turns – you know real life. And showed that people carry these types of burdens every day that no one is aware of. And that it really does just take that one person really “seeing you” to make all the difference. I enjoyed seeing the FMC and the MMC navigate their issues and how it deepened their feelings for one another.
The tropes in this book were so good and were one of the reasons I was dying to read it. I am a sucker for small town, military/ex-military, mental health representation, and then the healing to get to the HEA. Do yourself a favor and read this one immediately, add to TBR, order a shelf trophy – all the things.
Thank you @anithomas.author and @torchlitink for allowing me to ARC read this beautiful, delicate, love story. I cannot wait to read more by Ani.
🌶️🌶️
I love nothing more than a MMC that starts off reserved and unattainable. I love a chase and a good challenge. You know… right up until that special one comes along and snatches his heart right up – enter sweet full-of-sunshine, Haley Callahan. There really is nothing better. Literally in awe of Ani writing the MMC Blake Pierson, he’s this delicious man, with a heart of gold, that is battling all the demons in his head from tragedy while deployed serving his country. This man completely stole my heart. I also really loved Haley and her vibes, but specifically that she seemed to radiate this sunny, bright, emotionally aware energy. She was the perfect FMC to come along and really capture Blake’s attention. Ani wrote her character to absolute perfection.
I really loved that book showed life’s messy complicated twists and turns – you know real life. And showed that people carry these types of burdens every day that no one is aware of. And that it really does just take that one person really “seeing you” to make all the difference. I enjoyed seeing the FMC and the MMC navigate their issues and how it deepened their feelings for one another.
The tropes in this book were so good and were one of the reasons I was dying to read it. I am a sucker for small town, military/ex-military, mental health representation, and then the healing to get to the HEA. Do yourself a favor and read this one immediately, add to TBR, order a shelf trophy – all the things.
Thank you @anithomas.author and @torchlitink for allowing me to ARC read this beautiful, delicate, love story. I cannot wait to read more by Ani.
November 13, 2025
"I didn't know what it was about her presence, but she was the rare quiet in my storm. My heart needed Haley."
Gah....I knew going into this that it was going to be emotional as most stories are when a character is/was military. Brother's best friend is one of my favorite tropes and I couldn't wait for Blake and Haley.
Ani does not disappoint with these two. I will say the forbidden dynamic felt a bit different with these two (in a good way). Yes, there was instant attraction but it takes a backseat for a hot minute while Blake and Haley get to know each other since he has been gone for so long and the whole Haley is Wes's sister situation.
Blake's story is crushing and Haley was exactly who he needed in his life to show him there is light at the end of the dark tunnel he has been living in. It is definitely a baby steps process with him but with each step of the way Haley is the one who makes it a little bit easier for him. He has tragedy from his past haunting him and holding him back from living life. He is truly a good person and his own worst enemy at the same time.
Haley is just this genuinely good hearted person who totally deserves her HEA. It figures when she stops trying to find that love story she has longed for it sneaks right up on her. She takes the time to build a friendship with Blake too, and that is what made it even more special in my opinion.
Was I ready for this series to end...no! Does Ms. Thomas wrap it up well...yes! I have to say that Blake and Haley are definitely my favorite. I loved everything about them together and throw Blake's dog, Maverick, and all three of them just made my heart happy for them. I cannot wait to see what she brings to us next.
Gah....I knew going into this that it was going to be emotional as most stories are when a character is/was military. Brother's best friend is one of my favorite tropes and I couldn't wait for Blake and Haley.
Ani does not disappoint with these two. I will say the forbidden dynamic felt a bit different with these two (in a good way). Yes, there was instant attraction but it takes a backseat for a hot minute while Blake and Haley get to know each other since he has been gone for so long and the whole Haley is Wes's sister situation.
Blake's story is crushing and Haley was exactly who he needed in his life to show him there is light at the end of the dark tunnel he has been living in. It is definitely a baby steps process with him but with each step of the way Haley is the one who makes it a little bit easier for him. He has tragedy from his past haunting him and holding him back from living life. He is truly a good person and his own worst enemy at the same time.
Haley is just this genuinely good hearted person who totally deserves her HEA. It figures when she stops trying to find that love story she has longed for it sneaks right up on her. She takes the time to build a friendship with Blake too, and that is what made it even more special in my opinion.
Was I ready for this series to end...no! Does Ms. Thomas wrap it up well...yes! I have to say that Blake and Haley are definitely my favorite. I loved everything about them together and throw Blake's dog, Maverick, and all three of them just made my heart happy for them. I cannot wait to see what she brings to us next.
November 22, 2025
This story is tender, heartfelt, and beautifully raw.
Beside the Broken is a moving exploration of grief, survivor’s guilt, and the long, painful road toward believing that someone else’s death is not your fault. Watching Blake navigate his PTSD and take slow, halting steps toward forgiveness was powerful, and I especially loved how Haley never rushed or pushed him, she simply existed as this steady, unexpected anchor in the storm.
After being honorably discharged, Blake returns home carrying a weight he refuses to let anyone see. He hides behind “I’m fine,” even when it’s far from the truth. A spontaneous night with a mystery woman at a bar gives him a rare moment of peace… until morning reveals that she’s actually his best friend’s little sister, Haley.
For Haley, it was just one night. Fun, private, and nothing anyone needed to know about. She’s a romantic at heart with a history of trying to “fix” the guys she dates, but Blake is different. As a medical student, she ends up working alongside him, and they both try to keep things professional. But the chemistry? Absolutely magnetic. Blake discovers that Haley quiets the constant noise of guilt in his mind, while Haley finds herself falling for the man beneath the pain.
But secrets never stay hidden forever.
What happens when her brother finds out?
And will Blake allow himself to believe he deserves happiness after everything he’s endured?
A beautifully written, emotional journey of healing, connection, and quiet love.
Beside the Broken is a moving exploration of grief, survivor’s guilt, and the long, painful road toward believing that someone else’s death is not your fault. Watching Blake navigate his PTSD and take slow, halting steps toward forgiveness was powerful, and I especially loved how Haley never rushed or pushed him, she simply existed as this steady, unexpected anchor in the storm.
After being honorably discharged, Blake returns home carrying a weight he refuses to let anyone see. He hides behind “I’m fine,” even when it’s far from the truth. A spontaneous night with a mystery woman at a bar gives him a rare moment of peace… until morning reveals that she’s actually his best friend’s little sister, Haley.
For Haley, it was just one night. Fun, private, and nothing anyone needed to know about. She’s a romantic at heart with a history of trying to “fix” the guys she dates, but Blake is different. As a medical student, she ends up working alongside him, and they both try to keep things professional. But the chemistry? Absolutely magnetic. Blake discovers that Haley quiets the constant noise of guilt in his mind, while Haley finds herself falling for the man beneath the pain.
But secrets never stay hidden forever.
What happens when her brother finds out?
And will Blake allow himself to believe he deserves happiness after everything he’s endured?
A beautifully written, emotional journey of healing, connection, and quiet love.
November 13, 2025
I’ve read all three books in this see now by author Ani Thomas and can’t wait to see what she writes next. This series and book makes the reader this about how people struggle in different ways for different reasons. I’m new to this authors work these last six months. The main character are MMC Blake who is best friends with FMC Haley’s brother. Blake struggles with PTSD due to part of his past and Hayley helps him heal emotionally in unexpected ways. These two are from a small town where the story is based. The start as a one night stand and move into a situation of forced proximity which leads to in a sense a slower burn romance but not full slow burn romance as typical seen. Hayley unexpectedly give Blake a safe place and support to work through his PTSD. How these two ultimately bond and the rest of the course of their romance and the plot of the story a read must pick up Ani Thomas’s latest release for those interested to see how the story plays out. This story is DUEL POV which means we get both Hayley and Blake’s point of view throughout the series. I highly recommend Beside the Broken by Ani Thomas. This is book three in the Bayport cove Series. While and independent stand alone I would recommend if you’ve not read the rest of the series to pick up book one. This book release November 13th,2025!
November 8, 2025
Beside the Broken (Bayport Cove, #3)
by Ani Thomas
“If you’ll let me, I’ll love you the way you deserve to be loved.”🥹
4.5⭐️
2🌶️
So glad to be back in Bayport Cove and loved Blake & Haley’s sweet love story! 💛💛
MMC Blake really broke my heart with his PTSD struggles and the guilt he felt form losing his friend in combat.
And loved that his character grew and fought off his demons with a little help from his family and friends, Haley and a dog named “Maverick “
Loved Blake’s character and how he boosted Haley’s self esteem/ self worth.
Hopeless romantic FMC Haley is a ER nurse/ NP who loves her job and falls for all the wrong men.
She has a one night stand (with a hint of miscommunication) with Blake ( who is also her brother’s best friend) 😏
Blake was a Military doctor , he gets a job with Haley at the local hospital and the mixture of forced proximity and undeniable sexual chemistry. Leads to a forbidden relationship and companionship that both of them desperately need.
They do finally give in to their desires and their relationship was so sweet with some added steamy moments . And it ends with a HEA for them which they truly deserved!
Also Loved all the cameos from the previous characters from the first two books and how their lives were progressing.
Overall if you’re looking for a small town, brother’s best friend, forced proximity, metal health, medical and military reps, sweet and spicy love story, then I would recommend this beautiful story. 💛💛💛💛
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch Lit Ink for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
by Ani Thomas
“If you’ll let me, I’ll love you the way you deserve to be loved.”🥹
4.5⭐️
2🌶️
So glad to be back in Bayport Cove and loved Blake & Haley’s sweet love story! 💛💛
MMC Blake really broke my heart with his PTSD struggles and the guilt he felt form losing his friend in combat.
And loved that his character grew and fought off his demons with a little help from his family and friends, Haley and a dog named “Maverick “
Loved Blake’s character and how he boosted Haley’s self esteem/ self worth.
Hopeless romantic FMC Haley is a ER nurse/ NP who loves her job and falls for all the wrong men.
She has a one night stand (with a hint of miscommunication) with Blake ( who is also her brother’s best friend) 😏
Blake was a Military doctor , he gets a job with Haley at the local hospital and the mixture of forced proximity and undeniable sexual chemistry. Leads to a forbidden relationship and companionship that both of them desperately need.
They do finally give in to their desires and their relationship was so sweet with some added steamy moments . And it ends with a HEA for them which they truly deserved!
Also Loved all the cameos from the previous characters from the first two books and how their lives were progressing.
Overall if you’re looking for a small town, brother’s best friend, forced proximity, metal health, medical and military reps, sweet and spicy love story, then I would recommend this beautiful story. 💛💛💛💛
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch Lit Ink for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 12, 2025
Beside the Broken by Ani Thomas ✨️arc review✨️
Hello, hello, my fabulous bookish babe besties 💛 today I have a book recommendation that will make you feel every feeling possible 🌻🌻
This book was nothing short of magnificent, and I genuinely could not be convinced otherwise. This book takes the reader through the journey of grief, survivors guilt, it shines the brightest spotlight on mens mental health, more specifically the struggles so many in the military carry on their shoulders.
Reading this book was an experience, Blake and Haley their story was a journey that will hit readers in the CHEST *in all the best ways of course 😊* Blake trying to find normalcy after something that catastrophic is already hard but doing it under the facade of being okay is practically impossible. Haley learning and understanding her self-worth is something I know so many people will relate to. I think it's a concept that is easily forgotten, and no one should ever settle for less than the love they are worth.
What I adored about this book and what really cemented it as my third 5 🌟 read is that *in my opinion* there was never a point where the relationship was unhealthy. Haley never pushed Blake for anything more than he was capable of giving. She never judged him for his rainy days and always met him where he was. Blake did have rainy days, and sometimes he was snippy, BUT if ever that was directed towards Haley, he always held himself accountable. There was never a time when he didn't acknowledge and correct the way he spoke.
This author truly put her heart into this book. Readers will be able to see just how much she truly cared about this story and the trials these two faced. I know all of you bookish babes will love it 💛🌻
**𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 #𝟯 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙖𝙮𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝘾𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙉𝙤𝙫. 𝟭𝟯𝙩𝙝**
Hello, hello, my fabulous bookish babe besties 💛 today I have a book recommendation that will make you feel every feeling possible 🌻🌻
This book was nothing short of magnificent, and I genuinely could not be convinced otherwise. This book takes the reader through the journey of grief, survivors guilt, it shines the brightest spotlight on mens mental health, more specifically the struggles so many in the military carry on their shoulders.
Reading this book was an experience, Blake and Haley their story was a journey that will hit readers in the CHEST *in all the best ways of course 😊* Blake trying to find normalcy after something that catastrophic is already hard but doing it under the facade of being okay is practically impossible. Haley learning and understanding her self-worth is something I know so many people will relate to. I think it's a concept that is easily forgotten, and no one should ever settle for less than the love they are worth.
What I adored about this book and what really cemented it as my third 5 🌟 read is that *in my opinion* there was never a point where the relationship was unhealthy. Haley never pushed Blake for anything more than he was capable of giving. She never judged him for his rainy days and always met him where he was. Blake did have rainy days, and sometimes he was snippy, BUT if ever that was directed towards Haley, he always held himself accountable. There was never a time when he didn't acknowledge and correct the way he spoke.
This author truly put her heart into this book. Readers will be able to see just how much she truly cared about this story and the trials these two faced. I know all of you bookish babes will love it 💛🌻
**𝘽𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 #𝟯 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝙖𝙮𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝘾𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙉𝙤𝙫. 𝟭𝟯𝙩𝙝**
November 13, 2025
Another absolute banger by Ani. Phenomenal. Infinity stars. The fact I can still talk about the Bayport Cove series and Ani and people don’t know what I’m talking about still blows my mind. She deserves allllllll the hype and love.
Now to Blake and Haley. I absolutely loved these two. I laughed and I cried and I felt a rollercoaster of emotions. This story broke me and put me back together again. Haley is a hopeless romantic. An “I can fix him” girl, who’s just about to give up on love all together. Blake has PTSD from a tragedy while he was in the Army. He’s been honorably discharged and is trying to find his footing while easing back into “normal” life. He’s dealing with trauma and grief and heartbreak and dealing with it alone, even when he doesn’t have to. The found family in this group of friends is everything. But at the end of the day, it’s Haley, his best friend’s little sister, who helps him heal the most. Oh, and our good boy Mav. The Maverick to our Goose. We can’t forget about him. Watching these two fall in love had me so giddy. The way they healed each other, helped each other, listened to each other. Blake helping Haley study for her exams. And I especially loved the ER scenes. They were so real and raw and emotional - but brought Haley and Blake even closer. This story was so deep and these two had so many layers. I cannot even put into words to give this story the hype it deserves, but what you really need to know is this series needs to be added to your TBR. You won’t regret it.
Thank you to Ani and Torch Lit Ink for an ARC of Beside the Broken. I’m sad to say goodbye to Bayport Cove but I cannot wait to see what Ani has in store next.
read if you love:
small town, mental health rep, PTSD, brother’s best friend, one night stand, forced proximity, ex-military MMC, emotional healing, doctor x nurse
Now to Blake and Haley. I absolutely loved these two. I laughed and I cried and I felt a rollercoaster of emotions. This story broke me and put me back together again. Haley is a hopeless romantic. An “I can fix him” girl, who’s just about to give up on love all together. Blake has PTSD from a tragedy while he was in the Army. He’s been honorably discharged and is trying to find his footing while easing back into “normal” life. He’s dealing with trauma and grief and heartbreak and dealing with it alone, even when he doesn’t have to. The found family in this group of friends is everything. But at the end of the day, it’s Haley, his best friend’s little sister, who helps him heal the most. Oh, and our good boy Mav. The Maverick to our Goose. We can’t forget about him. Watching these two fall in love had me so giddy. The way they healed each other, helped each other, listened to each other. Blake helping Haley study for her exams. And I especially loved the ER scenes. They were so real and raw and emotional - but brought Haley and Blake even closer. This story was so deep and these two had so many layers. I cannot even put into words to give this story the hype it deserves, but what you really need to know is this series needs to be added to your TBR. You won’t regret it.
Thank you to Ani and Torch Lit Ink for an ARC of Beside the Broken. I’m sad to say goodbye to Bayport Cove but I cannot wait to see what Ani has in store next.
read if you love:
small town, mental health rep, PTSD, brother’s best friend, one night stand, forced proximity, ex-military MMC, emotional healing, doctor x nurse
November 14, 2025
I absolutely loved this sweet, deeply emotional and perfect romance.
Blake and Haley are real with an incredible emotional depth that just pulls you right into their orbit right from the start.
Blake is struggling through the grief and emotional trauma of PTSD after losing his friend in the military and the emotional toll that it plays on him is written so realistic that his pain, grief and feelings are palpable. I loved the support that his friends and family provided while he was working through the impact that this had on his life and trying to move forward.
Haley is a doll and I loved her right away. She's sassy, smart, incredibly fun and so sweet. I loved her character and the way that she quieted the demons for Blake through just her presence. These two were incredibly supportive of each other throughout this entire story and I loved that so much for them.
Despite the story starting off as a one night stand, this romance felt like a beautiful fall for Blake and Haley and I loved how they embraced challenges, worked through them together and stood beside each other to be exactly what the other needed.
TROPES:
Small Town
Brother’s Best Friend
One Night Stand
Forced Proximity
Mental Health Rep
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torchlit Ink for the ARC.
Blake and Haley are real with an incredible emotional depth that just pulls you right into their orbit right from the start.
Blake is struggling through the grief and emotional trauma of PTSD after losing his friend in the military and the emotional toll that it plays on him is written so realistic that his pain, grief and feelings are palpable. I loved the support that his friends and family provided while he was working through the impact that this had on his life and trying to move forward.
Haley is a doll and I loved her right away. She's sassy, smart, incredibly fun and so sweet. I loved her character and the way that she quieted the demons for Blake through just her presence. These two were incredibly supportive of each other throughout this entire story and I loved that so much for them.
Despite the story starting off as a one night stand, this romance felt like a beautiful fall for Blake and Haley and I loved how they embraced challenges, worked through them together and stood beside each other to be exactly what the other needed.
TROPES:
Small Town
Brother’s Best Friend
One Night Stand
Forced Proximity
Mental Health Rep
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torchlit Ink for the ARC.
November 3, 2025
I can’t even express how much I enjoyed this series, and this one put me in all the feels. Blake is haunted over the loss of his friend. His grief and the way he blames himself just broke my heart. He deserves all the hugs. The way him and Haley “reconnect” is fun, and when they start working together their feelings become more. Haley is a hopeless romantic, and I hated that she second guessed herself and her feelings at times.
The way Haley just constantly showed up for Blake in all the little ways made my heart burst for him. And in return, he remembered all the “little things” she loves and wants. The “tell me something real” I absolutely loved. The natural progression of their relationship was so good to see. I love that with Ani’s books. Nothing feels rushed and the relationship develops over a reasonable time.
Haley’s best friend Marie had me cracking up. She definitely brought the comedic relief to this more emotional story. My heart was beating so fast towards the end, but I loved everything about how it played out. I just absolutely adored these two.
Thank you to Ani Thomas once again for allowing me to ARC read this. So sad to see this series end!
The way Haley just constantly showed up for Blake in all the little ways made my heart burst for him. And in return, he remembered all the “little things” she loves and wants. The “tell me something real” I absolutely loved. The natural progression of their relationship was so good to see. I love that with Ani’s books. Nothing feels rushed and the relationship develops over a reasonable time.
Haley’s best friend Marie had me cracking up. She definitely brought the comedic relief to this more emotional story. My heart was beating so fast towards the end, but I loved everything about how it played out. I just absolutely adored these two.
Thank you to Ani Thomas once again for allowing me to ARC read this. So sad to see this series end!
December 1, 2025
✨️ARC Review✨️
I knew this would be an emotional one and sure enough, I was crying in the Prologue. You will spend the whole book wanting nothing more than Blake to find his happy ending and you won't be disappointed.
Haley is the younger sister of Blake's best friend. Plus they end up working together so there is a sense of forbidden romance. But these two just seem to work and don't resist for long.
I loved watching their relationship develop. Haley brings a sense of calm to Blake's world, a distraction from negative thoughts. And Blake is teaching her how she deserves to be treated by a man. They support each other so wonderfully. It's amazing how love can find you when you aren't looking for it.
And let's not forget about our goodest boy, Maverick. That was another place I was in tears, happier tears this time though.
I am so sad to be leaving Bayport Cove. I've loved all 3 of these books (highly suggest you read them in order although they can be standalones.) I can't wait to see where Ani goes next. (And I need to know if big brother Gabe gets an HEA??)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
I knew this would be an emotional one and sure enough, I was crying in the Prologue. You will spend the whole book wanting nothing more than Blake to find his happy ending and you won't be disappointed.
Haley is the younger sister of Blake's best friend. Plus they end up working together so there is a sense of forbidden romance. But these two just seem to work and don't resist for long.
I loved watching their relationship develop. Haley brings a sense of calm to Blake's world, a distraction from negative thoughts. And Blake is teaching her how she deserves to be treated by a man. They support each other so wonderfully. It's amazing how love can find you when you aren't looking for it.
And let's not forget about our goodest boy, Maverick. That was another place I was in tears, happier tears this time though.
I am so sad to be leaving Bayport Cove. I've loved all 3 of these books (highly suggest you read them in order although they can be standalones.) I can't wait to see where Ani goes next. (And I need to know if big brother Gabe gets an HEA??)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
January 6, 2026
Beside the Broken by Ani Thomas, the third installment in the Bayport Cove series, hit me right in the feels.
Blake, an Army veteran, is struggling with PTSD and the difficult transition back into civilian life after a traumatic event overseas. Watching his internal battle felt raw and real. Healing comes from the least expected place—his best friend’s little sister, Haley.
Haley is an RN studying for her certification to become a doctor, and she has a huge heart that’s often given too freely or misplaced. But with Blake, she finally finds the right person to share it with. Their connection is tender, supportive, and genuinely healing. These two were just too cute, and I absolutely loved seeing Blake truly come to life in this book.
It was also such a joy revisiting familiar faces—Lucas, Callie, Wes, Morgan, and Gabe—from the previous books. That sense of found family and continuity is one of my favorite parts of this series.
Ani Thomas continues to deliver heartfelt, emotional stories that linger long after the last page. I love this series, and Beside the Broken might be my favorite yet.
Blake, an Army veteran, is struggling with PTSD and the difficult transition back into civilian life after a traumatic event overseas. Watching his internal battle felt raw and real. Healing comes from the least expected place—his best friend’s little sister, Haley.
Haley is an RN studying for her certification to become a doctor, and she has a huge heart that’s often given too freely or misplaced. But with Blake, she finally finds the right person to share it with. Their connection is tender, supportive, and genuinely healing. These two were just too cute, and I absolutely loved seeing Blake truly come to life in this book.
It was also such a joy revisiting familiar faces—Lucas, Callie, Wes, Morgan, and Gabe—from the previous books. That sense of found family and continuity is one of my favorite parts of this series.
Ani Thomas continues to deliver heartfelt, emotional stories that linger long after the last page. I love this series, and Beside the Broken might be my favorite yet.
November 5, 2025
Absolutely loved Blake and Hailey! Besides the Broken has all the feels. You have Blake struggling with ptsd is focused on his career and healing and Hailey a hopeless romantic wanting to find her hea.
A one night drunk misunderstanding leads to a promise that it can’t happen again and that her brother can never find out. But is it that simple when he’s the new ER doctor and she’s working with him?
Tropes:
Brothers best friend
Doctor/nurse
Friends to lovers
One night stand
“The girl who believed she had to fix everything, and the man who came to her broken and showed her she didn’t have to.”
“In the end, he was the one who fixed me—by showing me that I didn’t need to fix anything that was truly meant to be mine. And he also showed me that what I wanted out of love and a relationship wasn’t as far-fetched as I started to believe. Because Blake Pierson was everything I ever wanted and then some.”
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch lit ink for the arc
A one night drunk misunderstanding leads to a promise that it can’t happen again and that her brother can never find out. But is it that simple when he’s the new ER doctor and she’s working with him?
Tropes:
Brothers best friend
Doctor/nurse
Friends to lovers
One night stand
“The girl who believed she had to fix everything, and the man who came to her broken and showed her she didn’t have to.”
“In the end, he was the one who fixed me—by showing me that I didn’t need to fix anything that was truly meant to be mine. And he also showed me that what I wanted out of love and a relationship wasn’t as far-fetched as I started to believe. Because Blake Pierson was everything I ever wanted and then some.”
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch lit ink for the arc
November 13, 2025
Bayport Cove series is like a little rollercoaster ride.
Book 1, ugly crying and broken
Book 2, funny and full of banter
Book 3, just finished and im over here sobbing like my life depends on it.
From the start of book 1, I fell for Blake and trust me there wasnt much of his story then. But i could still see big things were coming.
A story that encapsulates the struggle of ptsd, the sheer dispair of wanting forgiveness but not able to give yourself that freedom.
I couldn't wait to see him get his release and the love he so desperately needed and earned.
For to find the quiet in the storm in the least expected place, a person that loves him and brings him the calm in the chaos.
Thanks to Ani for the advanced copy. It has been a ride and i loved every moment!
Book 1, ugly crying and broken
Book 2, funny and full of banter
Book 3, just finished and im over here sobbing like my life depends on it.
From the start of book 1, I fell for Blake and trust me there wasnt much of his story then. But i could still see big things were coming.
A story that encapsulates the struggle of ptsd, the sheer dispair of wanting forgiveness but not able to give yourself that freedom.
I couldn't wait to see him get his release and the love he so desperately needed and earned.
For to find the quiet in the storm in the least expected place, a person that loves him and brings him the calm in the chaos.
Thanks to Ani for the advanced copy. It has been a ride and i loved every moment!
November 17, 2025
What an emotional romance that showcases the power of healing and support. Blake, honorably discharged from the military after a tragic event, returns home and eventually finds employment as an ER doctor where his best friend’s sister, Haley, is a nurse. They once had a one night stand and the close proximity of work draws them closer, with her helping him mentally heal and him supporting her in her career but also in knowing that she is worthy of love. An emotional, deep, beautiful, and gratifying low spice romance. All the books in this series have been engaging and satisfying reads, I love the overarching found family aspect along with each of the individual romances. 4.5 stars
Thanks to the author and Torch Lit Ink for the eARC.
Thanks to the author and Torch Lit Ink for the eARC.
November 23, 2025
⭐️4.5
🌶️2.5
This book is so beautifully heartbreaking and emotional while being full of spice. I love when a book has the emotional elements along with the relationship development.
Blake is former military and now home after dealing with a traumatic event. Haley is Blake’s best friend’s sister and they have known each other for most of their lives. One night after a few drinks things change between them and they become very close. Blake has some mental health issues that he is trying to overcome and Haley is there to help him.
I love a secret relationship that develops organically and this was perfectly shown. I absolutely love Blake and Haley together. The fact that her brother accepted their relationship too made me love them more.
🌶️2.5
This book is so beautifully heartbreaking and emotional while being full of spice. I love when a book has the emotional elements along with the relationship development.
Blake is former military and now home after dealing with a traumatic event. Haley is Blake’s best friend’s sister and they have known each other for most of their lives. One night after a few drinks things change between them and they become very close. Blake has some mental health issues that he is trying to overcome and Haley is there to help him.
I love a secret relationship that develops organically and this was perfectly shown. I absolutely love Blake and Haley together. The fact that her brother accepted their relationship too made me love them more.
November 16, 2025
I loved how Blake and Haley’s relationship slowly progressed over time, through various moments, the small little things, instead of just insta love. Their relationship was definitely built on a foundation that was built brick by brick, leading towards an eventual happy ever after.
Even as they worked towards finding their own career paths, it was so good to see them supporting each other just by being there in person. Those quiet moments were precious and it was inevitable Blake would fall irrevocably for Haley.
This is the last book in the Bayport Cove series and also my favorite in the series. Read this and you will find yourself falling for the Blake-Haley couple.
Even as they worked towards finding their own career paths, it was so good to see them supporting each other just by being there in person. Those quiet moments were precious and it was inevitable Blake would fall irrevocably for Haley.
This is the last book in the Bayport Cove series and also my favorite in the series. Read this and you will find yourself falling for the Blake-Haley couple.
November 22, 2025
Beside the Broken was SO good.. my first Ani Thomas book and she had me attached to these characters. Blake had me in my feelings the whole time , the PTSD, the guilt, everything. And Haley?? Sweetest human ever who somehow gets stuck in the messiest situations 😂
They have this chaotic one-night stand and then end up having to work together, which of course means forced proximity and all the tension. It was emotional but not too heavy, and the spice was just the right amount like cute-blushy, not full-on wild lol.
Honestly, if you want something that feels real, tender, and a little messy in the best way, you’d love this one. 💛
They have this chaotic one-night stand and then end up having to work together, which of course means forced proximity and all the tension. It was emotional but not too heavy, and the spice was just the right amount like cute-blushy, not full-on wild lol.
Honestly, if you want something that feels real, tender, and a little messy in the best way, you’d love this one. 💛
November 24, 2025
Two very strong main characters in this story, and a great story overall, really pulls you into this one. Blake and Halley were two people with a passion for helping others. This book really touches on the tragic things that can take place in a persons life. And it’s ask about what they do with it. And I loved that Blake took the tragedy and made it into something so amazing. Haley was so carefree in life. So the two of them together just falls into something that’s bound to come out good. And they were so great together. I loved the heart and emotions that were written into this story. It was beautiful in so many ways
November 24, 2025
Ah that was good. Light, heartwarming, and sweet.
Blake was fighting with his PTSD and Haley came at the right time to unconsciously helped him to fight his PTSD. Well, actually Blake also helped Haley with her "back to the men from the past" syndrome. So they helped each other for their best happiness.
What miss to me was the writing style. It was descriptive kind of writing and there were not enough conversations between Blake and Haley. Thus, I didn't feel the strong chemistry between those two. For me, the writing style also left many time-gaps between stories and they left important momentum in the story.
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch Lit Ink for the ARC.
Blake was fighting with his PTSD and Haley came at the right time to unconsciously helped him to fight his PTSD. Well, actually Blake also helped Haley with her "back to the men from the past" syndrome. So they helped each other for their best happiness.
What miss to me was the writing style. It was descriptive kind of writing and there were not enough conversations between Blake and Haley. Thus, I didn't feel the strong chemistry between those two. For me, the writing style also left many time-gaps between stories and they left important momentum in the story.
Thank you to Ani Thomas and Torch Lit Ink for the ARC.
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