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Inevitable #3
Shattered
The Ghost
Angela Del Carlo has been living half a life, ever since he walked out on her, shattering her entire existence and leaving her to cope with picking up the fragments. Nothing seems to matter much anymore, and her life is a drab existence of work, run, repeat. She’s forgotten how to laugh, how to love, and even how to live. Most days she’s little more than a ghost.
The Devil
Nick Manning’s life has been one lived without compromise, without rules, and without regrets. Except for his one weakness, his one regret – Angela. What he did to her still tugs at his conscience, still fills him with remorse, and continues to haunt his dreams. But he stays away, knowing that he can never be the man she needs or give her what she deserves.
The Angel
But when fate intervenes and Angela’s and Nick’s paths cross again, she’s determined not to surrender her soul to the devil ever again, while he’s desperate to have his angel back in his arms – even if it means changing the rules to get it done.
Angela Del Carlo has been living half a life, ever since he walked out on her, shattering her entire existence and leaving her to cope with picking up the fragments. Nothing seems to matter much anymore, and her life is a drab existence of work, run, repeat. She’s forgotten how to laugh, how to love, and even how to live. Most days she’s little more than a ghost.
The Devil
Nick Manning’s life has been one lived without compromise, without rules, and without regrets. Except for his one weakness, his one regret – Angela. What he did to her still tugs at his conscience, still fills him with remorse, and continues to haunt his dreams. But he stays away, knowing that he can never be the man she needs or give her what she deserves.
The Angel
But when fate intervenes and Angela’s and Nick’s paths cross again, she’s determined not to surrender her soul to the devil ever again, while he’s desperate to have his angel back in his arms – even if it means changing the rules to get it done.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2015
28 people are currently reading
1020 people want to read
About the author
Janet Nissenson
17 books810 followersJanet is a lifelong resident of the San Francisco Bay Area, and currently resides on the northern California coast with her husband Steve and Golden Retriever Max. She worked for more than two decades in the financial services industry before turning her focus to producing running events. She is a former long-distance runner, current avid yoga practitioner, is addicted to Pinterest, likes to travel and read. She has been writing for more than three decades but Serendipity is her first official published work. There will be a total of six full-length books in the Inevitable series, plus one novella. Up next is the release of book one in the new Splendor trilogy!
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May 7, 2015
Ever since I stumbled somewhat by accident on a little known new release called Serendipity a year and a half ago, I’ve been a huge fan/follower/worshipper of Janet Nissenson. Whether or not you like her books or her characters, there is no denying that this woman can write. And there really isn’t anyone else like her out there right now who writes quite like she does – with incredible attention to detail, who paints such a vivid picture of her characters and surroundings that you feel like you’re right there with them in the scene. I know a lot of people talk about this “show don’t tell” crap which I personally have never understood. There are so many times when reading a book that I want, NEED, to know more about these people – what exactly do they look like, what are they thinking, etc. – and the majority of writers tend to skim over these facts. With all of Janet’s books so far, she gives me all of this and more.
Janet cautioned us in her own review of Shattered that this book was going to be darker than her previous releases, and she was right. But, honestly, as much as I adored Serendipity and dreamed about Splendor for weeks (and re-read it something like four times already!) I think this new book might be her best work so far. Whether or not you like the characters – and Angela is a seriously messed up girl while Nick is a total a**hole for most of the book – there’s no denying how beautifully written this book is. It’s emotional, sexy, more than a little unsettling at times, not always easy to read, but it’s honest, heartfelt, and real.
The book is written in three parts – present, past, and present again – so fortunately the entire flashback portion is all done at once without the annoyance of bouncing back and forth between time frames. We also do not get any of Nick’s POV until the third and final part, keeping us guessing about his real feelings and not getting much if any information about his background or what really drives him. This is different than the other books in the series, where we got inside the hero’s head right from the start of the book (in fact, both Serendipity and Splendor start off in the male POV). But this new strategy worked well with Shattered, keeping Nick as something of a mystery man, and then more or less cluing us in to his back story in one chapter.
When the story opens Angela is out for a run, and we learn that running long miles has been something of her salvation these past years. But she has a lot of problems, and has more or less closed herself off from almost everyone and devotes herself to her job. Her young PA Cara (who sounds amazingly cute and will have her own story at some point!) worries about how skinny Angela is and how she never eats and keeps trying to tempt her into eating something. Angela is more or less an emotionless shell and doesn’t bother socializing with people at work or caring much about anything. But when she realizes Nick – her former lover and the man who broke her heart a few years ago – is now working in her office, she’s furious and shows real emotion for the first time in years.
“What are you doing here?” she asked ungraciously. “Both at this firm and in my office. You have to know you’re the very last person I want to see.”
Nick is shocked to see how thin and gaunt Angela is, a very different woman than he remembered, and begins to realize that he is the reason she looks and acts the way she does and feels guilty, an emotion he apparently doesn’t usually feel. He taunts her about resuming their relationship.
“This is far from over, you know. The more I think about it, the more I realize just how much I’ve missed having you in my life. And how intriguing it would be to have you back. Fair warning, Angel. I always get what I want.”
Part two of the book is where we go back in time a few years and learn how Nick and Angela first met and how their relationship developed. Angela is a young stockbroker trainee fresh out of college, while Nick, who is a retired football player, is now one of the top brokers at the office. She hears all the gossip about him, how he never dates co-workers, or has long-term relationships, etc. But when she sees him for the first time none of that matters because she’s instantly captivated by him.
She would remember that exact moment for weeks, months, and even years later – the moment when time froze in place; when her heart was beating so fast she thought for sure it would burst right out of her chest cavity; when her palms grew sweaty and her breasts suddenly felt swollen and achy. And when she fell deeply and helplessly under his spell.
Nick, too, sees something in Angela that he can’t explain but there is an undeniable attraction between them and he takes her out to dinner – and then to bed – the very same night. And then the next time they see each other – something of a surprise to Angela, since he’s got the rep for loving ‘em and leaving ‘em – he lays down his “rules” or conditions that will have to be followed in order for them to keep seeing each other.
This is part of the story that’s a little maddening to read, to realize that Angela is going to give in to all of his unrealistic conditions just to be with him. But Nick admits right off the bat that he wouldn’t blame her at all for refusing and acknowledges he’s a jerk for even asking.
“Basically, Angel, I’m just a self-centered, selfish bastard who’s completely set in his ways and doesn’t know the meaning of the word compromise. That’s how I live my life, how I run my business, and I’m not prepared to apologize for it and definitely not willing to change my ways for anyone.”
But it turns out that being controlled is exactly what Angela wants. When you learn a little later in the story what an unhappy childhood she had, and how messed up her relationship with her family still is, it becomes a little more clear as to why she’d ever agree to accept Nick’s offer and let him take control of her life.
To her surprise, their relationship continues for almost a year, but it becomes harder for her to deal with as time goes on since she’s supposed to keep it a secret, even from her family and friends. Plus, she’s fallen in love with him – one of the things he forbid her to do – and she has to fight all the time to keep from showing her feelings.
Angela closed her eyes, forcing back the tears she so desperately wanted to shed, and told herself firmly to be grateful for what she did have. She reminded herself of how many women would kill to trade places with her, that what she’d shared so far with Nick was much, much more than he’d ever give to another woman. And that if she wanted to remain in his life in any sort of fashion, she would have to accept things as they were and stop wishing for what couldn’t be.
When she makes the mistake of saying “I love you” during one of their heated bouts of sex, she knows that she’s screwed things up and keeps waiting for him to end things. But even though she fully expects that to happen, when the end does come she’s a total basket case and falls apart. The breakup is something she never really recovers from, even though she changes jobs so that she doesn’t have to suffer the pain of seeing him around the office every day.
When we eventually get to read Nick’s POV we learn that he always regretted the way he ended things with Angela, that he was shocked when she initially agreed to abide by his terms at the very beginning of their relationship. He never actually imagined anyone would agree to something so extreme, and sort of intentionally acted like a jerk just so she’d be the one to end things. But because of his own messed-up childhood – different than Angela’s but equally bad or maybe even worse in some ways – he’s gone out of his way to avoid commitment and doesn’t have a clue about how to have a real relationship. But he feels guilty at how badly he treated her, responsible for how bad she looks (skinny, not giving a crap about her appearance, etc.) and decides he’s going to try and win her back, if for no other reason than to help her get better.
But there was almost nothing left of that woman now – the one who looked like a strong wind would blow her over, whose arm had felt alarmingly thin and frail beneath his fingers, whose eyes looked dead. He had done that to her, he realized now with a groan. She’d devoted herself to him, had given him everything he’d asked of her, had loved him for God’s sake, and he had thrown all of it away – he’d shoved her out of his life just as he’d shoved her out of his car that night.
He semi-stalks her, conning naïve little Cara into conspiring with him, and these are actually a few of the more light-hearted scenes in what is otherwise a dark book. But Angela, who has found her backbone somewhere along the way, fights him every step of the way, determined not to let him control her again.
Angela stared at him. “Are you high? Or having a serious mental breakdown? What we had, Nick, was a one-sided relationship where you had absolutely everything your way all the time. Granted, the sex was hot, but since you’re far from the only guy in this world with a big dick and a dirty mouth, I’d say you don’t have a hell of a lot going for you these days.”
Complicating matters is the fact that Angela is dating someone now, but Nick isn’t a guy who’s used to being told no so he keeps trying to push his way back into her life. Whether or not she lets that happen in the end is something you’ll have to read the book to find out. But, like Angela’s friend Julia (the heroine from the first book) tells Nick at one point:
“You’re the one,” replied Julia simply. “The one she was so wrapped up in four years ago. The one,” she added, “that she never got over.”
I was really afraid that I would feel let down by this book, given that all of the excerpts and teasers I’d read up to the release gave hints that it was not going to be a sexy or sweet or romantic story like the previous books had been, and I’m not a big fan of the angst. But I was amazed and surprised at how well all of the elements were brought together – the angst, yes, as well as lots of emotional upheaval and family drama – but also incredibly hot sex (something this author is a master at writing!), wonderful characters, great, realistic dialog, and the way everything feels so real, like you’re right there in the scene or watching it on TV or something.
I liked watching Angela’s journey during the course of the book, which covers something like a 4-5 year time period, how at first she was a young college graduate with little self-esteem but how she started to blossom during her relationship with Nick, then how she became this depressed train wreck who it was painful at times to read about, and finally how she learned to stand up to everyone and became a strong, self-sufficient woman.
As usual, the secondary characters are fantastic but without taking over the book. I adore little Cara and can’t wait to read her book, was caught between laughter and outrage at some of the things Angela’s boss Barbara flung out, and of course, the real treat was having a whole lot more of my favorite character in these books – the smart-ass, tough-chick Lauren. Lauren is the kind of girl you want as your best friend – not to go shopping with or do your nails or watch chick flicks – but to hold your head while you’re barfing, to support you when you’re crying your eyes out, and to threaten your ex-boyfriend with physical harm if he even thinks about hurting you again. I can’t WAIT until her story comes out as she has the potential to be the most kick-ass heroine ever.
But until then think I’ll re-read Shattered again, just like I’ve re-read all the books in this series. Definitely the best book I’ve read so far this year.
Read
April 27, 2015With the release date for Shattered now just over a week away, this is usually the time I like to post what I call the “review that isn’t really a review”. I’m not one of those authors who rates her own books, and what follows isn’t an actual review but, rather, a bit of background information on what went into writing this newest release and some insight into the characters and plot.
First, this fourth book was definitely the toughest of them all for me to write. Unlike Serendipity – which was sexy, Splendor – which was unapologetically romantic, and All You Need is Love – which was sexy, romantic, and funny, Shattered is a much darker book. It is not a style that I particularly enjoy delving into, and I struggled with many parts of the story. That being said, when the book was completed and I read and re-read it several times, I was very pleased with the end result and consider Shattered to be some of my best writing to date.
A little bit about the two lead characters – Angela and Nick. Angela has some serious issues going on in her life when the book opens. She works too many hours, runs too many miles, has trouble sleeping at night. She’s got an admitted problem with alcohol, and may or may not have an eating disorder. She definitely has family issues, in particular with her mother, and is depressed and withdrawn. She’s managed to alienate most of her family members and friends over the past few years, and her nickname at the office is the Ice Queen. And she’s never gotten over having her heart broken a few years earlier by the man she willingly gave herself over to – the same man who’s now working at her firm.
Nick is a self-proclaimed asshole. He never compromises, never takes no for an answer, and lives life by his own set of rules. He’s a retired professional football player, a staggeringly successful stockbroker, and a man used to getting his own way in all things. Relationships and commitment aren’t part of his game plan, and he himself was surprised when his arrangement with Angela lasted for almost a full year. He’s told himself for years that breaking things off with her was for her own good, and that she deserved to be with someone who could give her all the things he wasn’t capable of doing. But when he sees her again after their years apart and realizes how broken she is – and that he was the one who broke her – he begins to question his actions and to try and find a way to bring her back to the woman she once was.
Neither of them are particularly likeable people. They have very obvious flaws, emotional issues, and weaknesses. In hindsight, Nick was probably the very worst thing that could have ever happened to Angela, the last sort of person she needed in her life. But, as she describes to her former boss “I couldn’t help myself. The first time we met – it was like touching live flame.”
Shattered is their love story, as flawed and destructive as it might be. I hope that you’ll enjoy reading their story, and finding out if two damaged but hopelessly intertwined souls can somehow scratch out a happy ever after.
First, this fourth book was definitely the toughest of them all for me to write. Unlike Serendipity – which was sexy, Splendor – which was unapologetically romantic, and All You Need is Love – which was sexy, romantic, and funny, Shattered is a much darker book. It is not a style that I particularly enjoy delving into, and I struggled with many parts of the story. That being said, when the book was completed and I read and re-read it several times, I was very pleased with the end result and consider Shattered to be some of my best writing to date.
A little bit about the two lead characters – Angela and Nick. Angela has some serious issues going on in her life when the book opens. She works too many hours, runs too many miles, has trouble sleeping at night. She’s got an admitted problem with alcohol, and may or may not have an eating disorder. She definitely has family issues, in particular with her mother, and is depressed and withdrawn. She’s managed to alienate most of her family members and friends over the past few years, and her nickname at the office is the Ice Queen. And she’s never gotten over having her heart broken a few years earlier by the man she willingly gave herself over to – the same man who’s now working at her firm.
Nick is a self-proclaimed asshole. He never compromises, never takes no for an answer, and lives life by his own set of rules. He’s a retired professional football player, a staggeringly successful stockbroker, and a man used to getting his own way in all things. Relationships and commitment aren’t part of his game plan, and he himself was surprised when his arrangement with Angela lasted for almost a full year. He’s told himself for years that breaking things off with her was for her own good, and that she deserved to be with someone who could give her all the things he wasn’t capable of doing. But when he sees her again after their years apart and realizes how broken she is – and that he was the one who broke her – he begins to question his actions and to try and find a way to bring her back to the woman she once was.
Neither of them are particularly likeable people. They have very obvious flaws, emotional issues, and weaknesses. In hindsight, Nick was probably the very worst thing that could have ever happened to Angela, the last sort of person she needed in her life. But, as she describes to her former boss “I couldn’t help myself. The first time we met – it was like touching live flame.”
Shattered is their love story, as flawed and destructive as it might be. I hope that you’ll enjoy reading their story, and finding out if two damaged but hopelessly intertwined souls can somehow scratch out a happy ever after.
May 2, 2015
Thanks, Barnes & Noble pre-order for getting this to me early! Stayed up till the wee hours to finish but it was worth it! A darker story than the others in this series but equally brilliant.
May 16, 2015
Title: Shattered (Inevitable #3)
Author: Janet Nissenson
Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Erotica
Publication Date: May 5, 2015
Source: Copy Given by Author and Tour Organizer
ARA'S NOTE:
This is my favorite among the three books, hands-down. From the first few pages, I knew that I would enjoy Shattered. And I was right!! Eeep! Can't wait to share it with you.
SYNOPSIS:
The Ghost
Angela Del Carlo has been living half a life, ever since he walked out on her, shattering her entire existence and leaving her to cope with picking up the fragments. Nothing seems to matter much anymore, and her life is a drab existence of work, run, repeat. She’s forgotten how to laugh, how to love, and even how to live. Most days she’s little more than a ghost.
The Devil
Nick Manning’s life has been one lived without compromise, without rules, and without regrets. Except for his one weakness, his one regret – Angela. What he did to her still tugs at his conscience, still fills him with remorse, and continues to haunt his dreams. But he stays away, knowing that he can never be the man she needs or give her what she deserves.
The Angel
But when fate intervenes and Angela’s and Nick’s paths cross again, she’s determined not to surrender her soul to the devil ever again, while he’s desperate to have his angel back in his arms – even if it means changing the rules to get it done.
CHARACTER BACKGROUND:
Nick Manning is a giant (literally) ass. He's a hot, dominant ass. He's probably the best broker in all of California, but it doesn't change the fact that he should be stoned to death for what he did to our dear lady.
Angela Del Carlo used to be a strong, confident woman. Until Nick broke her. For four years, she was nothing but a shell. A running-until-she-can't-anymore shell. But when she was just starting to feel something again, her nightmare had to resurface.
REVIEW:
Shattered is simply wonderful. There were many factors that played a part in its awesomeness, so let me break it down.
The sex:
Yes, I wasn't fond of it in the first two books, but this one is different. First, the wildness of the scenes actually fit the characters. They were both strong, as well as one obviously dominant and the other appreciates being told what to do. Second, there weren't as much sex here as there were in the Serendipity and Splendor, so I wasn't too overwhelmed by it.
The story:
Can anyone say dramatic? I loved how Angela became broken. Not because I wanted to see her suffer, but because it turned her into a stronger woman who knows what she wants. Though I would've appreciated it if Nick suffered as well. It seemed like he had it too easy, and that upsets me.
Lauren:
I can't wait for her own book. CAN'T WAIT! I've only caught glimpses of her in this series, and I want more. She's probably the character I'll be able to relate to the most.
SUMMARY:
I give Shattered 4.5 stars, not 5 because like I said, it felt like Nick didn't even have to try all that hard to win Angela back. Given that he took her life away. He deserved more hardships. But aside from that I liked the third installment in the series. I recommend this.
P.S. Lauren's story PLEASE!!!
Author: Janet Nissenson
Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Erotica
Publication Date: May 5, 2015
Source: Copy Given by Author and Tour Organizer
ARA'S NOTE:
This is my favorite among the three books, hands-down. From the first few pages, I knew that I would enjoy Shattered. And I was right!! Eeep! Can't wait to share it with you.
SYNOPSIS:
The Ghost
Angela Del Carlo has been living half a life, ever since he walked out on her, shattering her entire existence and leaving her to cope with picking up the fragments. Nothing seems to matter much anymore, and her life is a drab existence of work, run, repeat. She’s forgotten how to laugh, how to love, and even how to live. Most days she’s little more than a ghost.
The Devil
Nick Manning’s life has been one lived without compromise, without rules, and without regrets. Except for his one weakness, his one regret – Angela. What he did to her still tugs at his conscience, still fills him with remorse, and continues to haunt his dreams. But he stays away, knowing that he can never be the man she needs or give her what she deserves.
The Angel
But when fate intervenes and Angela’s and Nick’s paths cross again, she’s determined not to surrender her soul to the devil ever again, while he’s desperate to have his angel back in his arms – even if it means changing the rules to get it done.
CHARACTER BACKGROUND:
Nick Manning is a giant (literally) ass. He's a hot, dominant ass. He's probably the best broker in all of California, but it doesn't change the fact that he should be stoned to death for what he did to our dear lady.
Angela Del Carlo used to be a strong, confident woman. Until Nick broke her. For four years, she was nothing but a shell. A running-until-she-can't-anymore shell. But when she was just starting to feel something again, her nightmare had to resurface.
REVIEW:
Shattered is simply wonderful. There were many factors that played a part in its awesomeness, so let me break it down.
The sex:
Yes, I wasn't fond of it in the first two books, but this one is different. First, the wildness of the scenes actually fit the characters. They were both strong, as well as one obviously dominant and the other appreciates being told what to do. Second, there weren't as much sex here as there were in the Serendipity and Splendor, so I wasn't too overwhelmed by it.
The story:
Can anyone say dramatic? I loved how Angela became broken. Not because I wanted to see her suffer, but because it turned her into a stronger woman who knows what she wants. Though I would've appreciated it if Nick suffered as well. It seemed like he had it too easy, and that upsets me.
Lauren:
I can't wait for her own book. CAN'T WAIT! I've only caught glimpses of her in this series, and I want more. She's probably the character I'll be able to relate to the most.
SUMMARY:
I give Shattered 4.5 stars, not 5 because like I said, it felt like Nick didn't even have to try all that hard to win Angela back. Given that he took her life away. He deserved more hardships. But aside from that I liked the third installment in the series. I recommend this.
P.S. Lauren's story PLEASE!!!
September 29, 2015
I received this book free from the author for an honest review. This is the first time to read a book by Janet Nissenson and I will definitely read the other books in the Inevitable series. I think any woman can understand the feeling of being shattered when a relationship ends. Angela Del Carlo is absolutely shattered when Nick Manning ends the relationship with no reason why. Angela tries to put her life back together again but it doesn't go very well. Several years later Angela and Nick meet again. Nick is shocked by the difference to Angela and realizes what he did to her. Nick Manning is the kind of character you love and hate. Hate because of what he did to Angela and how uncaring he was and then love when he comes to his sense. It became clear that Nick deeply regretted his actions and wanted his angel back. This was a emotional book and I felt for Angela. Angela has a horrible mother and sister with a father that doesn't stand up for her. This situation is fixed in the end in a very satisfying way. Don't let the lackluster cover for this book fool you it's worth your time. This is one time you definitely shouldn't judge a book by it's cover.
November 8, 2015
I received this book as an ARC via netgalley and Enthusiast promotions and in return will give an honest review.
I give this book 4.5 stars. Very in depth and well written book. This is definitely not your typical love story. I loved part one and part three of this book. Part two really threw me for a loop and honestly was my drawback of giving this 5 stars.
Nick is a controlling man and Angela is in need of someone actually giving a damn. So consequently they draw to each other. But they have there very high ups and very very low downs. It was an emotional roller coaster and I enjoyed it very much.
I love all the characters in this book that I was introduced to in book one. This author is very good at expressing excellent character development. I feel as though I know Angela and Nick on a personal level. I know their family and friends. That is something that is hard to do in a book and yet not feel like it is dragging on. I wish everyone had their own book. And like I had said in the book review for book one I can't wait for Lauren to have a book.
So if you are looking for a well written, sexy, funny, emotional, and heart wrenching book this is it for you!!!
I give this book 4.5 stars. Very in depth and well written book. This is definitely not your typical love story. I loved part one and part three of this book. Part two really threw me for a loop and honestly was my drawback of giving this 5 stars.
Nick is a controlling man and Angela is in need of someone actually giving a damn. So consequently they draw to each other. But they have there very high ups and very very low downs. It was an emotional roller coaster and I enjoyed it very much.
I love all the characters in this book that I was introduced to in book one. This author is very good at expressing excellent character development. I feel as though I know Angela and Nick on a personal level. I know their family and friends. That is something that is hard to do in a book and yet not feel like it is dragging on. I wish everyone had their own book. And like I had said in the book review for book one I can't wait for Lauren to have a book.
So if you are looking for a well written, sexy, funny, emotional, and heart wrenching book this is it for you!!!
July 24, 2015
I was shattered after reading this book. I fully admit that at the end tears streamed down my face. I actually didn’t know if they were tears of sadness, happiness or relief. This book (and the whole series) was really, really well done. I love that the author creates really complex characters. Things are not black and white with the story. The characters make poor choices, do things to anger or upset the reader and also do so many things right.
The story is broken up into three sections: the ghost, the devil and the angel. In the Ghost, we are introduced to Angela who is a shell of a person. Ridiculously thin, emotionally devoid and miserable. We learn that a broken relationship FOUR years earlier is responsible. That sucked me in, to be honest. I was skeptical of this plot point when I started reading. I mean, how on earth can someone grieve a relationship for that long? As I started reading about Angela, the only way I could relate to her misery was if I lost a child. Her grief and despair is that profound. That made me insatiably curious about this relationship that could turn her into a skeleton.
In the Devil, we get to know Nick and find out about this relationship. It would be flippant to characterize it as something similar to Crossfire or Fifty Shades. Nick wants Angela, but only on his very specific terms. He will only see her at his desires, dress her in clothes of his choice and have sex at her place. She can’t call him, go on dates or have any sort of emotional relationship with him. Part of me was like, really? I know that physical attraction and lust make people do really stupid things, but the author deftly weaves the plot so that it makes sense why Angela would agree to his rules. Angela has a messed up family life and she thrives on the rules that Nick gives her.
The sex is out of control in this book. Nick is a former NFL all star player and now a stockbroker at the same firm as Angela. He is described as extremely tall, brawny and golden brown. For some reason I just couldn’t stop myself from imagining his physique like the “Rock” Dwayne Johnson (who I happen to think is smoking). He is insatiable in bed and hung like a horse. They have outrageously great sex, which made me envious as the reader. While Nick was not available emotionally, he did spend time wining and dining Angela, shopping with her and taking her to occasional parties. Most of their time was spent in the bedroom.
Angela knows from the start that she is breaking his number one rule – she loves Nick. She loves his mind, his mad business acumen and his ferocious appetite in the bedroom. This is the longest relationship that Nick has ever had – eleven months and five days. But it ends when Angela lets it slip that she loves him. Hence the devastation and emotional withdrawal from life. Angela leaves her job to get away from seeing Nick. She drinks heavily and pretty much stops eating. I really liked how the author made Angela flawed like that. Janet Nissenson wasn’t afraid to show the ugly side of characters and yet still made the reader pull for them.
In the final section, The Angel, we get to see Nick grovel. He comes to work at her firm and is shocked by the shell of a woman he once knew. Spending time with Angela again he comes to realize his mistake. He never should have let her go. And this, dear readers, is where the fun and games get going! It is always so great to see a man have to work to get a woman, especially after he broke her heart in a million pieces. He tries commanding her to come back to him, wooing her, teasing her, challenging her and seduction. Angela is so much stronger than the woman he knew four years ago and she has no intention of capitulating to his demands and rules this time. She has worked so hard to exerocise the demons of her past and she won’t accept anything less than she is deserving of. I wanted to cheer when she lays it on the line for Nick.
The secondary characters in the book are fantastic. In the previous books in the Inevitable series, we have met Lauren, Julia, Nathan, Ian and Tessa. All are in this book so we get a glimpse of what is happening in their lives. Frankly, I can’t wait to read Lauren’s story because she is so compelling and down right scary. In fact, I loved this book and series so much, that I went and bought the first book and devoured it today. The books are quite long, but they need to be to explore the depth of plot and emotions present.
I can’t say enough good things about this series. I loved this book and the two before it! If you have a chance, check them out and add them to you to-be-read pile! You won’t regret spending time with this series.
The story is broken up into three sections: the ghost, the devil and the angel. In the Ghost, we are introduced to Angela who is a shell of a person. Ridiculously thin, emotionally devoid and miserable. We learn that a broken relationship FOUR years earlier is responsible. That sucked me in, to be honest. I was skeptical of this plot point when I started reading. I mean, how on earth can someone grieve a relationship for that long? As I started reading about Angela, the only way I could relate to her misery was if I lost a child. Her grief and despair is that profound. That made me insatiably curious about this relationship that could turn her into a skeleton.
In the Devil, we get to know Nick and find out about this relationship. It would be flippant to characterize it as something similar to Crossfire or Fifty Shades. Nick wants Angela, but only on his very specific terms. He will only see her at his desires, dress her in clothes of his choice and have sex at her place. She can’t call him, go on dates or have any sort of emotional relationship with him. Part of me was like, really? I know that physical attraction and lust make people do really stupid things, but the author deftly weaves the plot so that it makes sense why Angela would agree to his rules. Angela has a messed up family life and she thrives on the rules that Nick gives her.
The sex is out of control in this book. Nick is a former NFL all star player and now a stockbroker at the same firm as Angela. He is described as extremely tall, brawny and golden brown. For some reason I just couldn’t stop myself from imagining his physique like the “Rock” Dwayne Johnson (who I happen to think is smoking). He is insatiable in bed and hung like a horse. They have outrageously great sex, which made me envious as the reader. While Nick was not available emotionally, he did spend time wining and dining Angela, shopping with her and taking her to occasional parties. Most of their time was spent in the bedroom.
Angela knows from the start that she is breaking his number one rule – she loves Nick. She loves his mind, his mad business acumen and his ferocious appetite in the bedroom. This is the longest relationship that Nick has ever had – eleven months and five days. But it ends when Angela lets it slip that she loves him. Hence the devastation and emotional withdrawal from life. Angela leaves her job to get away from seeing Nick. She drinks heavily and pretty much stops eating. I really liked how the author made Angela flawed like that. Janet Nissenson wasn’t afraid to show the ugly side of characters and yet still made the reader pull for them.
In the final section, The Angel, we get to see Nick grovel. He comes to work at her firm and is shocked by the shell of a woman he once knew. Spending time with Angela again he comes to realize his mistake. He never should have let her go. And this, dear readers, is where the fun and games get going! It is always so great to see a man have to work to get a woman, especially after he broke her heart in a million pieces. He tries commanding her to come back to him, wooing her, teasing her, challenging her and seduction. Angela is so much stronger than the woman he knew four years ago and she has no intention of capitulating to his demands and rules this time. She has worked so hard to exerocise the demons of her past and she won’t accept anything less than she is deserving of. I wanted to cheer when she lays it on the line for Nick.
The secondary characters in the book are fantastic. In the previous books in the Inevitable series, we have met Lauren, Julia, Nathan, Ian and Tessa. All are in this book so we get a glimpse of what is happening in their lives. Frankly, I can’t wait to read Lauren’s story because she is so compelling and down right scary. In fact, I loved this book and series so much, that I went and bought the first book and devoured it today. The books are quite long, but they need to be to explore the depth of plot and emotions present.
I can’t say enough good things about this series. I loved this book and the two before it! If you have a chance, check them out and add them to you to-be-read pile! You won’t regret spending time with this series.
September 6, 2015
Honestly, this was NOT a love story. Nick is a total dickhead who actually never changes from being a total self centred arrogant immoral little shit. Even after he coldly chucks her to the curb 4 years prior and continues to take up with multiple females, he still hasn't changed his bastard ways when he decides he wants Angela back and just expects her to "hop to it". Really moron?? And sadly, Angela does hop to it.
There is no grovelling or self realisation from this guy, total dick to the end.
Angela got on my nerves by not telling him to go #### himself and really mean it.
The only thing I liked in this story was when Lauren (the only person) actually confronted this pig about what he did to Angela, and pointed the finger at him. She should've done alot more.
Nick should not have ended up with Angela. She should have found someone worthy and rubbed Nick's face in it. But no, instead being another weak stupid female character, she TOTALLY caves and never makes him work to win her back. Seriously, what idiot female would not make a sleazeabag pig who did what Nick did to her at least grovel for her forgiveness. This is NOT a realistic love story in the least, if that's what the author was going for.
There is no grovelling or self realisation from this guy, total dick to the end.
Angela got on my nerves by not telling him to go #### himself and really mean it.
The only thing I liked in this story was when Lauren (the only person) actually confronted this pig about what he did to Angela, and pointed the finger at him. She should've done alot more.
Nick should not have ended up with Angela. She should have found someone worthy and rubbed Nick's face in it. But no, instead being another weak stupid female character, she TOTALLY caves and never makes him work to win her back. Seriously, what idiot female would not make a sleazeabag pig who did what Nick did to her at least grovel for her forgiveness. This is NOT a realistic love story in the least, if that's what the author was going for.
September 20, 2015
"Shattered," by Janet Nissenson, is a stand alone book and third in the Inevitable series. I was so into in this book, I couldn't put it down. The main characters are frustrating, distressing, pitiable and brutal. Reading this was an emotional trek but I loved it...and now have a book hangover.
May 5, 2015
review
I have absolutely loved this series so far and Shattered has once again blown me away. We have met Angela previously in this series and she has been a character I have been really intrigued by. Something in her life has obviously "shattered" her and caused her to live life as a shell of a person. Rather than living, she is just simply existing and this book gives you her story. We have met her as the miserable friend of both Julia and her twin sister Lauren and her constant state of being on autopilot and not having fun has featured heavily in their lives.
As the run up to this novel, we see her changing in the novella All You Need is Love when she meets a new man in her life. I love how the glimpses we have seen of her in the other books in the series have been retold from her point of view! It has tied the characters together brilliantly.
So we know that Angela is broken but until we have her side of the story, we don't realise just how broken she is and how this has happened. It is evident that someone broke her heart, well more than broke it. They shattered it. And when she finally begins to pull herself round and tries living life again, the heartbreak rears its ugly head again when Nick reappears in her life.
The dual perspective of the book really gives you a chance to get to know the characters and much as I really wanted to hate Nick, I could see he is also dealing with his own kind of demons that he needs to exorcise.
One great telling point for me was the way that the book is split into three parts, one dealing with the past, the present and Nick's perspective of the future. You get to see how this relation ship originally developed and then splintered followed by Angela's years of heartache and then Nick's attempts to make things right.
I won't go into details of how why or when but needled to say this is a slightly more dark tale of romance (if you can call it that, especially to begin with) and a fantastic journey of two souls who both have their individual issues to deal with. The characters are both equally well developed and I really loved the fact that although there are many walls between them, you can feel the connection they have every time they are together. Despite what the characters may say, the prose around their dialogue and their individual perspectives frustrate you but also endear you to their path to being together.
I have loved every book in this series and this is no exception. Five Shattered stars from me and I am waiting in anticipation for Lauren's story. This is another thread to the series that definitely needs closer for me!
I have absolutely loved this series so far and Shattered has once again blown me away. We have met Angela previously in this series and she has been a character I have been really intrigued by. Something in her life has obviously "shattered" her and caused her to live life as a shell of a person. Rather than living, she is just simply existing and this book gives you her story. We have met her as the miserable friend of both Julia and her twin sister Lauren and her constant state of being on autopilot and not having fun has featured heavily in their lives.
As the run up to this novel, we see her changing in the novella All You Need is Love when she meets a new man in her life. I love how the glimpses we have seen of her in the other books in the series have been retold from her point of view! It has tied the characters together brilliantly.
So we know that Angela is broken but until we have her side of the story, we don't realise just how broken she is and how this has happened. It is evident that someone broke her heart, well more than broke it. They shattered it. And when she finally begins to pull herself round and tries living life again, the heartbreak rears its ugly head again when Nick reappears in her life.
The dual perspective of the book really gives you a chance to get to know the characters and much as I really wanted to hate Nick, I could see he is also dealing with his own kind of demons that he needs to exorcise.
One great telling point for me was the way that the book is split into three parts, one dealing with the past, the present and Nick's perspective of the future. You get to see how this relation ship originally developed and then splintered followed by Angela's years of heartache and then Nick's attempts to make things right.
I won't go into details of how why or when but needled to say this is a slightly more dark tale of romance (if you can call it that, especially to begin with) and a fantastic journey of two souls who both have their individual issues to deal with. The characters are both equally well developed and I really loved the fact that although there are many walls between them, you can feel the connection they have every time they are together. Despite what the characters may say, the prose around their dialogue and their individual perspectives frustrate you but also endear you to their path to being together.
I have loved every book in this series and this is no exception. Five Shattered stars from me and I am waiting in anticipation for Lauren's story. This is another thread to the series that definitely needs closer for me!
June 2, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would, but alas!!
Shattered is Book 3 in the Inevitable series but can be read as a standalone which is what I did (although now I want to go back and read the first two). It follows the love story of the two main characters, Nick Manning & Angela Del Carlo. I must stress that I know this story won’t appeal to everyone as it deals with issues of control etc. in a relationship but if you can keep an open mind it is worth it.
The story is told over 3 parts: The Ghost, The Devil and The Angel. You meet Angela at the beginning of the book where she is a haunted, shattered shell of her former self following the breakup of her relationship with Nick in which he exerted control over Angela in almost all aspects of her life and she has literally became a ghost trying to put back the fractured pieces of her soul. Yet fate intervenes and brings Nick aka The Devil back into her life.
I don’t know how many times I sat with my mouth hanging open reading about their relationship and the rules he wanted followed. As you learn Angela’s history you garner the reasons why she wants this so much but as a reader I was shouting at the book telling her not to lose herself in the process! I would describe it as BDSM but not as we know it!
As Nick tries to win her back after the years apart we find out what makes him tick and why he does what he does but feel his pain/guilt acutely at what his decisions have done to his former Angel. None more so than as this point:
“You broke me, broke me into a hundred little pieces, and it’s taken me all this time to become whole again.”
No matter what happened in the book you were aware of the huge love these two had for another even if at times they did not know it. I cried, shouted, laughed and smiled my way through this book and forgot about my own surroundings in the process and that to me is a sign of what a great writer Janet Nissenson is!
The secondary characters in the book only add depth to the book as they give an insight into the lead characters. I can’t wait for Lauren’s book!
Shattered is Book 3 in the Inevitable series but can be read as a standalone which is what I did (although now I want to go back and read the first two). It follows the love story of the two main characters, Nick Manning & Angela Del Carlo. I must stress that I know this story won’t appeal to everyone as it deals with issues of control etc. in a relationship but if you can keep an open mind it is worth it.
The story is told over 3 parts: The Ghost, The Devil and The Angel. You meet Angela at the beginning of the book where she is a haunted, shattered shell of her former self following the breakup of her relationship with Nick in which he exerted control over Angela in almost all aspects of her life and she has literally became a ghost trying to put back the fractured pieces of her soul. Yet fate intervenes and brings Nick aka The Devil back into her life.
I don’t know how many times I sat with my mouth hanging open reading about their relationship and the rules he wanted followed. As you learn Angela’s history you garner the reasons why she wants this so much but as a reader I was shouting at the book telling her not to lose herself in the process! I would describe it as BDSM but not as we know it!
As Nick tries to win her back after the years apart we find out what makes him tick and why he does what he does but feel his pain/guilt acutely at what his decisions have done to his former Angel. None more so than as this point:
“You broke me, broke me into a hundred little pieces, and it’s taken me all this time to become whole again.”
No matter what happened in the book you were aware of the huge love these two had for another even if at times they did not know it. I cried, shouted, laughed and smiled my way through this book and forgot about my own surroundings in the process and that to me is a sign of what a great writer Janet Nissenson is!
The secondary characters in the book only add depth to the book as they give an insight into the lead characters. I can’t wait for Lauren’s book!
September 23, 2015
I LOVED this book. It was a fantastic continuation of the series. It was thoughtful, thought provoking, and really a roller coaster of emotions. She did a fantastic job of sucking you in, and keeping you engaged. It was exhausting to read, and I couldn't put it down. There were parts where I cried so hard my husband thought there was something wrong with me. If you haven't read this book or this series you are missing out on some amazing works. Ms. Nissenson is a very talented author, and as her works progress so does her talent.
July 26, 2015
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley from Book Enthusiast Promotions for an honest review. This is the 3rd book and a standalone in a series. This is the first book I've read by the author and although previous (and future) characters make appearances, I had no problem following along. In fact, I plan on going back and reading the author's other books. I say that because although I can't say I "enjoyed" reading this book, it really made me feel every emotion from beginning to end. I may have hated and completely disagreed with most of what Angela and Nick did in this book, but it was never formulaic and predictable. It was messy and honest and real. This is probably the longest review I've written, so here we go...
I understand that first young love and how easy it is too be wrapped up and lose your identity. Nothing to this degree, but you think it's your whole world and the end when it crashes. It's unexplainable and irrational. It's also easy to think about why did you ever put up with it or did the things you did in hindsight. It's also easy for someone on the outside to judge what isn't explainable when it comes to such intense and indescribable feelings.
Again, hindsight and all that is what kept me thinking about Angela's situation. If a friend of mine was going through what she did, particularly the suffering for FOUR years, I would intervene and do everything I could to get her help. Their relationship was toxic and so unbalanced. It wrecked an already non-existent self-esteem. Years later and she's emaciated, not eating, and her coping mechanism is to run ultramarathons. She never does anything in half measures - it's extreme with no balance. She's hopeless and lost.
Nick. 99% of this book I really didn't like him, but I also kept waiting for him to be brought to his knees and suffer at least a tiny bit of the pain he inflicted. He has serious control issues, but I didn't fully buy his history and root of them. Mostly I think he was prone to it already and that was an excuse. In a way I could see why Angela first went along with his conditions. Given her family, she needed the "control" he had over her she never had before. Knowing that still made it so hard to watch her destroy herself while he molded her into the woman he thought he wanted.
When he returns to her life, I was really surprised how he still didn't get it. He was concerned about her and knew he wanted her and how unfulfilled his life had been since her, but he still couldn't compromise no matter how much he said he would. The moments when he would need to live up to his words and he failed every time. His friend Dante... loved him and how he totally called him out on his bullshit. Angela finally stopped being a doormat and I cheered when she walked out on him in the hotel. I didn't totally buy how in three months she began to transform after four years, but it was good to see her stand up for herself. It's sad to me that none of that happened sooner.
What helped the most was hearing his voice around the 75% mark when the story picks back up in the present. It saved his character for me as we got to see him as weak and damaged. I needed to hear his remorse and regret and ESPECIALLY I needed to hear him admit how horribly he had treated her not only when he pushed her out of the car, but during the whole relationship. It still leaves me confused how this unhealthy relationship should pick back up, but again, from my personal experience, a lot of relationships and feelings can't be explained so simply.
I loved Cara. Loved the little bit of Dante we saw. Actually liked Barbara and how she toughened Angie up a bit and gave her a focus. I didn't like Lauren and Nick's name calling and snickering about Dwayne (WTF - immature and snotty). I'm anxious to go back and read Julia's story as well as Ian's. A little unsure of reading the ball busting Lauren's story coming up even though I liked her as a side character here.
In the end, she still needs counseling and he needs to go with her for his own past and control issues. Although I wanted to yell at these characters, I realized I was truly engrossed in the story. I'm grateful I was given an ARC as I'm not sure I would have given it much of a chance beyond the sample - there's a lot of inner dialogue and I kept waiting to understand why she was so unhappy and self-destructive. I'm glad I stuck with it and amazed how many times I slowed down and re-read a page to think more about these characters' motivations. Flat out, good or bad, in the end this book made me feel.
I understand that first young love and how easy it is too be wrapped up and lose your identity. Nothing to this degree, but you think it's your whole world and the end when it crashes. It's unexplainable and irrational. It's also easy to think about why did you ever put up with it or did the things you did in hindsight. It's also easy for someone on the outside to judge what isn't explainable when it comes to such intense and indescribable feelings.
Again, hindsight and all that is what kept me thinking about Angela's situation. If a friend of mine was going through what she did, particularly the suffering for FOUR years, I would intervene and do everything I could to get her help. Their relationship was toxic and so unbalanced. It wrecked an already non-existent self-esteem. Years later and she's emaciated, not eating, and her coping mechanism is to run ultramarathons. She never does anything in half measures - it's extreme with no balance. She's hopeless and lost.
Nick. 99% of this book I really didn't like him, but I also kept waiting for him to be brought to his knees and suffer at least a tiny bit of the pain he inflicted. He has serious control issues, but I didn't fully buy his history and root of them. Mostly I think he was prone to it already and that was an excuse. In a way I could see why Angela first went along with his conditions. Given her family, she needed the "control" he had over her she never had before. Knowing that still made it so hard to watch her destroy herself while he molded her into the woman he thought he wanted.
When he returns to her life, I was really surprised how he still didn't get it. He was concerned about her and knew he wanted her and how unfulfilled his life had been since her, but he still couldn't compromise no matter how much he said he would. The moments when he would need to live up to his words and he failed every time. His friend Dante... loved him and how he totally called him out on his bullshit. Angela finally stopped being a doormat and I cheered when she walked out on him in the hotel. I didn't totally buy how in three months she began to transform after four years, but it was good to see her stand up for herself. It's sad to me that none of that happened sooner.
What helped the most was hearing his voice around the 75% mark when the story picks back up in the present. It saved his character for me as we got to see him as weak and damaged. I needed to hear his remorse and regret and ESPECIALLY I needed to hear him admit how horribly he had treated her not only when he pushed her out of the car, but during the whole relationship. It still leaves me confused how this unhealthy relationship should pick back up, but again, from my personal experience, a lot of relationships and feelings can't be explained so simply.
I loved Cara. Loved the little bit of Dante we saw. Actually liked Barbara and how she toughened Angie up a bit and gave her a focus. I didn't like Lauren and Nick's name calling and snickering about Dwayne (WTF - immature and snotty). I'm anxious to go back and read Julia's story as well as Ian's. A little unsure of reading the ball busting Lauren's story coming up even though I liked her as a side character here.
In the end, she still needs counseling and he needs to go with her for his own past and control issues. Although I wanted to yell at these characters, I realized I was truly engrossed in the story. I'm grateful I was given an ARC as I'm not sure I would have given it much of a chance beyond the sample - there's a lot of inner dialogue and I kept waiting to understand why she was so unhappy and self-destructive. I'm glad I stuck with it and amazed how many times I slowed down and re-read a page to think more about these characters' motivations. Flat out, good or bad, in the end this book made me feel.
May 10, 2015
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Angela Del Carlo is merely living. She is a shadow of her former self. No longer the person she was at work and with her friends. She fell for hot, self-absorbed, womanizer, Nick Manning. Her love for him crushed her. Her sprit. Non-existent. She was left shattered after their arrangement was no longer working for him. You watch a beautiful woman become a shell of her former self. You feel for her. Yet you understand her pull towards to this man. His heart has walls but you could feel her penetrating those walls every time they were together.
We meet Angela in the previous books in this series. If you have not read them, this book can definitely be read as a standalone. We know that Angela was hurt. Badly. But we don’t understand the depth of her broken heart until her story. Their story.The author flawlessly moves between past and present as we are immersed in the lives of the characters where you watch a woman break and get put back together by the same person that shattered her into pieces.
Shattered is a love story about two flawed human beings. Two damaged souls. It is a REAL love story. A journey. For love is not rainbows and flowers. And this story effortlessly shows how even a devastating journey to love can be worth it. That our past may try to shape us, but with love, anything is possible. So why do you want to read a story about a woman’s broken heart and the man who did it? Because there is such TRUTH in this story. Angela and Nick? They’re people. And people are capable of mistakes. We mess up. But broken people? They hurt. They mess up too. Sometimes more. How can you truly love someone when you never felt love yourself? But you can. And they did. Love saves.
Shattered is a bit different than the other books in this series, but nonetheless it is brilliant and you may question your own thoughts and ideas of love. Love is not something in a pretty box, with a big pink bow. That is not Nick and Angela’s story. Their story has many layers. I love that the author never sugarcoated anything in their story. Their love is raw, genuine, intense, and overwhelming.
As usual, the writing of this story is flawless in it’s delivery. Effortless in the way the author allows you to fall for her imperfect characters. While the author herself mentions that this is not like the others in the series, I commend her from being different. It shows her versatility in writing a story. She understands that love and romance is not one dimensional. If only author authors considered that in their writing. Shattered is darker, yet more emotional, but still sexy as her other reads. If you have never read anything by this author you are missing out. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Angela Del Carlo is merely living. She is a shadow of her former self. No longer the person she was at work and with her friends. She fell for hot, self-absorbed, womanizer, Nick Manning. Her love for him crushed her. Her sprit. Non-existent. She was left shattered after their arrangement was no longer working for him. You watch a beautiful woman become a shell of her former self. You feel for her. Yet you understand her pull towards to this man. His heart has walls but you could feel her penetrating those walls every time they were together.
We meet Angela in the previous books in this series. If you have not read them, this book can definitely be read as a standalone. We know that Angela was hurt. Badly. But we don’t understand the depth of her broken heart until her story. Their story.The author flawlessly moves between past and present as we are immersed in the lives of the characters where you watch a woman break and get put back together by the same person that shattered her into pieces.
Shattered is a love story about two flawed human beings. Two damaged souls. It is a REAL love story. A journey. For love is not rainbows and flowers. And this story effortlessly shows how even a devastating journey to love can be worth it. That our past may try to shape us, but with love, anything is possible. So why do you want to read a story about a woman’s broken heart and the man who did it? Because there is such TRUTH in this story. Angela and Nick? They’re people. And people are capable of mistakes. We mess up. But broken people? They hurt. They mess up too. Sometimes more. How can you truly love someone when you never felt love yourself? But you can. And they did. Love saves.
Shattered is a bit different than the other books in this series, but nonetheless it is brilliant and you may question your own thoughts and ideas of love. Love is not something in a pretty box, with a big pink bow. That is not Nick and Angela’s story. Their story has many layers. I love that the author never sugarcoated anything in their story. Their love is raw, genuine, intense, and overwhelming.
As usual, the writing of this story is flawless in it’s delivery. Effortless in the way the author allows you to fall for her imperfect characters. While the author herself mentions that this is not like the others in the series, I commend her from being different. It shows her versatility in writing a story. She understands that love and romance is not one dimensional. If only author authors considered that in their writing. Shattered is darker, yet more emotional, but still sexy as her other reads. If you have never read anything by this author you are missing out. I look forward to the next book in this series.
June 16, 2017
**** 3.75 Stars ****
Can be read as a standalone.
Shattered can be read as a standalone. Characters from the previous books are involved or mentioned, but they play minor roles.
Angela has always felt like the accident in her family. Her mother and much older sisters never treated her right, and her loving father never stood up for her.
When Angela meets Nick at work, he gives her something that she desperately craved. He provides her with rules and boundaries.
She can't tell anyone about their relationship, she can't call him, and she can't ask him about his family. She follows his unreasonable rules until he realizes that she's getting too attached. Then Nick breaks things off in a cruel way. Angela finds it difficult to work with him so closely, so she leaves for another company.
"I tend to forget sometimes that I’m sleeping with the devil and that he constantly tempts me to do naughty things.”
Years later, Nick gets a job at Angela's company, but he is shocked to see his old lover as an emotionless shell. She's an ice queen, and it's all his fault.
This is definitely different from the prior books in the series. The story is split in 3 parts. The Ghost is about Angela’s emotionless state after the break up. The Devil is about what happened in the past between the lovers. And the Angel is about getting Angela back.
There were some parts that I found repetitive. I wouldn’t say that I loved the characters, but the story was good. Nick and Angela had a master/slave relationship, but it wasn't heavy in the bdsm category. No whips, no chains, but there were some bondage.
Can be read as a standalone.
Shattered can be read as a standalone. Characters from the previous books are involved or mentioned, but they play minor roles.
Angela has always felt like the accident in her family. Her mother and much older sisters never treated her right, and her loving father never stood up for her.
When Angela meets Nick at work, he gives her something that she desperately craved. He provides her with rules and boundaries.
She can't tell anyone about their relationship, she can't call him, and she can't ask him about his family. She follows his unreasonable rules until he realizes that she's getting too attached. Then Nick breaks things off in a cruel way. Angela finds it difficult to work with him so closely, so she leaves for another company.
"I tend to forget sometimes that I’m sleeping with the devil and that he constantly tempts me to do naughty things.”
Years later, Nick gets a job at Angela's company, but he is shocked to see his old lover as an emotionless shell. She's an ice queen, and it's all his fault.
This is definitely different from the prior books in the series. The story is split in 3 parts. The Ghost is about Angela’s emotionless state after the break up. The Devil is about what happened in the past between the lovers. And the Angel is about getting Angela back.
There were some parts that I found repetitive. I wouldn’t say that I loved the characters, but the story was good. Nick and Angela had a master/slave relationship, but it wasn't heavy in the bdsm category. No whips, no chains, but there were some bondage.
May 22, 2015
We met Angela Del Carlo in previous books in the series and knew a man had broken her heart, spirit and joy. We find out in Shattered that the man is legendary womanizer Nick Manning.
Angela four years after the relationship ended is a shell of her previous self. She is drifting through life like a tumbleweed bounces through the desert. She is barely existing and numb to emotion. It is her means of survival. She goes that the motions of life, but isn't living, merely existing. She has become a ghost.
Nick is handsome, charismatic and afraid of attachment. Angela is the one woman who kept his attention for more then a few dates. The chemistry and contact between them is scorching and erotic. Why did he end things? Did he have regrets?
We get to read their backstory and understand the relationship as it was and their life now. They are both damaged souls who meet up again. Will they be qble.to move past their scars and fears and find happiness?
The author eloquently weaves their story and makes you feel their journey and love. I love the author's writing and writing style.
I can't wait for the next book in this series and the ones that follow. Bravo!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Angela four years after the relationship ended is a shell of her previous self. She is drifting through life like a tumbleweed bounces through the desert. She is barely existing and numb to emotion. It is her means of survival. She goes that the motions of life, but isn't living, merely existing. She has become a ghost.
Nick is handsome, charismatic and afraid of attachment. Angela is the one woman who kept his attention for more then a few dates. The chemistry and contact between them is scorching and erotic. Why did he end things? Did he have regrets?
We get to read their backstory and understand the relationship as it was and their life now. They are both damaged souls who meet up again. Will they be qble.to move past their scars and fears and find happiness?
The author eloquently weaves their story and makes you feel their journey and love. I love the author's writing and writing style.
I can't wait for the next book in this series and the ones that follow. Bravo!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2015
Angela was shattered the day that Nick walked out of her life. She can barely eat, drinks herself into a stupor, and shuts off her emotions. She pulls the pieces of her life back together to become the shell of person she once was. Now Nick wants her back. Will she return to him and his "rules" ?
This is the 3rd book in a series, but can be read as a stand alone. When I read this book, I had no idea it was part of a series, and now that I am finished, I want to go back and find out more about the other characters in the story. This book was very well written. The characters are complex and well developed. I really felt for the characters (although I would like to beat them upside the head once in a while). Definitely worth the read.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley from Book Enthusiast Promotions for an honest review.
This is the 3rd book in a series, but can be read as a stand alone. When I read this book, I had no idea it was part of a series, and now that I am finished, I want to go back and find out more about the other characters in the story. This book was very well written. The characters are complex and well developed. I really felt for the characters (although I would like to beat them upside the head once in a while). Definitely worth the read.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley from Book Enthusiast Promotions for an honest review.
May 19, 2015
more at melenasreviews.wordpress.com
I have to say this is a series that for the first time for me has become a top 10 in all books. I always wondered about Angela in Julia`s, Serendipity, and now so many questions are answered. I felt for Angela and her heartache to never get what your heart desires only to be shunned away..The passion that Nick has towards Angela was hot, scintillating and just mind blowing. Even though Janet Nissenson created him to be an asshole he had some genuine characteristics even he didn`t see coming. Have to say no matter how tempting and passionate Nick was I applaud Angela for sticking to her guns just wow. I cannot wait for Lauren`s story though and more of this beautiful, hot and sexy series. One series you don`t want to pass up for I stayed up till the night reading this and then just sad I have to wait till the next one. Ugh the suspense of finding about more from Julia, Nathan, Tessa, Ian, Angela and Nick. So many beautiful, passionate and sexy man.
I have to say this is a series that for the first time for me has become a top 10 in all books. I always wondered about Angela in Julia`s, Serendipity, and now so many questions are answered. I felt for Angela and her heartache to never get what your heart desires only to be shunned away..The passion that Nick has towards Angela was hot, scintillating and just mind blowing. Even though Janet Nissenson created him to be an asshole he had some genuine characteristics even he didn`t see coming. Have to say no matter how tempting and passionate Nick was I applaud Angela for sticking to her guns just wow. I cannot wait for Lauren`s story though and more of this beautiful, hot and sexy series. One series you don`t want to pass up for I stayed up till the night reading this and then just sad I have to wait till the next one. Ugh the suspense of finding about more from Julia, Nathan, Tessa, Ian, Angela and Nick. So many beautiful, passionate and sexy man.
May 18, 2015
Title: Shattered
Author: Janet Nissenson
Series or Standalone: Standalone Series (Inevitable #3)
Genre: Erotica, Contemporary Romance
Rating: 4 Stars ****
Review:
***Received an ARC of this book from the author for an unbiased and honest review***
I have to admit, when I signed up for a chance to read this book, I paid a lot of attention to the cover along with the blurb and not much to the fact that it was book three in a series of books, which honestly frightened me a bit once I started it. It’s not that I wasn’t against going back and reading two other books if I had to in order to understand anything that might happen in this one, but I didn’t think I’d be able to do it within the time constraints I have when it comes to my reading and reviewing.
As it turns out, this book read completely standalone, while featuring other characters from previous stories, and the other two weren’t needed at all to understand the story within these pages and the couple that brought it to life.
There’s a particular set-up to this novel, it being written in very specific parts. Starting first with the present timeline and then breaking off into the past and what brought the characters from their beginning point to where they both find themselves as the story opens before coming around again and delving deeper into the present and future, complete with a very fulfilling end for the characters.
This is not a story for the faint of heart. These characters aren’t cardboard cutouts or shiny happy people. They’re very real people with real flaws and things about them that don’t always read or look the best on paper. Which was probably both my favorite part of this book and also my biggest upset with this book.
Take for instance the heroine Angela. As the story begins, we’re given a bird’s eye view into her life, one filled with working too many hours, running ultra-races and probably living at her most unhealthy as it pertains to her weight and taking care of herself. Despite her being portrayed this way, it was actually her way of being at the start that drew me to her more so than the person she had been previously. It was easy to see even though it wasn’t entirely spoken of in the earlier chapters that she had been through something that had truly traumatized her and changed her and in the opposite way than what you hope for a character when you first start reading. She was very raw and very real and I felt for her almost immediately, without understanding what had brought her to this point.
Enter Nick Manning, the hero, or in this case, the alpha anti-hero. God, I don’t know if it was the author’s intent, but my first glimpse of him and I wanted to shut the book. I think I loathed that man on sight. I’m not against an asshole, lord knows the world is full of them, but this guy just came across all sorts of bad and I found myself at one point beginning their past screaming at my kindle for Angela to run as fast and far away from him as she could. The level of asshole was just too huge.
But this is what I love about fiction. When an author takes a character that you want to loathe on sight and twists and turns him until he’s redeeming himself and weaseling his way into your heart before you even realize he’s done it. This is what happened with Nick and I’m telling you, I’m so glad that it did because I really did want to invest in the two of them together even if their relationship wasn’t exactly conventional. I wanted good things for Angela and I wanted it to be Nick, despite my earlier thoughts on him.
It doesn’t happen right away. Change takes a long time here, but I think it had to. There were shades of it in the latter part of the book when they came back into the present where you could see the winds of change coming. Nick wanting to be different even if he didn’t have the first clue how to go about it and then as the book neared its end, you’re given an even bigger glimpse and a greater payoff. Making the time invested in this book worth it.
So character development and believability hit their mark here, and at the right pace.
Which brings me to the flow of the novel. For me, even though it intrigued me, it was a little rough to get into in the beginning. I liked the raw view of Angela and connected to it, but I was seeing a lot of detail at times I didn’t really think was needed and made me feel like I was reading at a snail’s pace, but it didn’t last long. It came into its own very easily and by books end, I can safely say that it being paced the way it was, worked very well for what did happen and needed to happen by the final page.
This being an erotic story, I knew going in that there would be scenes throughout and though there were instances of it and they were written very well, with just the right amount of steam to get their point across, there wasn’t so many that I felt it bogged down the story or took away from the romance of it by the end. With a lot of books of this nature dominating the market, it can get quite tedious to read about after a while, but for me personally here with Angel and Nick’s story, every single time they were together built toward something bigger, and made the connection after years pass that much stronger and more believable.
This being an author I’d never experienced before, and a series that I obviously came too late into (in terms of other characters throughout this story), I had no idea what I was in for, but after having read the story cover to cover am glad that I came across because it was quite a lovely read. It had heartache, pain, downright agony at times, but it also had moments of humor, and happiness and growth that made it worth the time invested.
If you’re a fan of redemption stories, ones filled with growth, along with romance and a walk on the wild side of erotic where the characters are raw real and flawed, yet beautiful at the same time, then this is definitely a story you want to pick up.
May 12, 2015
First of all, Shattered is book 3 in the Inevitable series, following Serendipity and Splendor.
I have read both books and I adore them! They both have compelling stories, amazing characters and exceptional writing behind them. They are both two of my favorite books of all-time!
So, that makes me a huge Janet Nissenson fan! I simply adore her work and her writing style. Long novels with precision, details, emotion, heat; novels that speak to body and soul, heart and mind.
We have met Angela in both books, and she was always so sad so pitiless really that I did want to see her happy ending. I wanted to see her happy and smiling and simply enjoy her life and not just live by every day. On the other hand, I was half afraid that her sadness would be too much for me - I don’t really like reading those ugly cry books; life is an ugly cry itself-
But here we are with Shattered and Angela’s story.
We meet exceptional writing again, as it’s usual with Janet. I just love her approach in everything! We discover Angela in a much deeper level than we discovered Ian or Tessa, for example. It feels like Janet connected us straight to Angela’s heart and mind. It was much more emotional and heavy than the previous books. Julia may the be woman we would like to be, Tessa may be the woman who is a total sweetheart, but Angela is closer to the real woman in the way that she was burnt by a man, kept loving that man but in the end, she became stronger than anyone else. It wasn’t like that I identified with her, but I felt for her, I cared for her more intensely than I did with the others; probably because the others did not need that.
No, I don’t identify with Angela, because as strong as she is, she let a man shatter her into a million pieces even years after their breakup. Perhaps it’s because I’ve never been in love or perhaps it’s because we have a similar background and yet, we are completely different. This was why the first half of the book was difficult for me to read, as I couldn’t connect with her the way I wanted, the way she deserved. But that changed in the second half of the book! As she grew stronger and stronger, she finally found herself.
“I finally felt like Angela, not Angie, not Angel, but Angela.”
What an incredible quote. How inspiring and so very true.
When she lost Nick, she lost herself. Yeah, she became successful in her work -which was surprising to me- but at what cost? She lost not only weight, but herself. That could be the most terrible thing that could happen in a person. But she did survive it!
Angela is the woman whose life has never been easy, but she has overcome every single hurdle that comes her way. She is a fierce woman underneath that sadness and I felt elated to watch her emerge from that darkness that had consumed her.
The first half of the book was dark and on the depressing side, but also priceless. Because this is Angela’s journey to finding Angela. We couldn’t reach the destination without knowing the beginning, no matter how heartbreaking it was.
And the ending? It was perfect. Not for every woman, but it was perfect for Angela.
Nick Manning may be the famous and powerful alpha male, but it was Angela who was the true star of this novel.
Finally, I would like to congratulate every woman who has suffered like Angela has and applaud them for their strength and courage and drive to move forward.
This is a book that could make women proud. Because we all fall at some point. Getting up is what makes us strong. And this novel represents that rise of the phoenix.
So, Shattered receives 4 Gorgeous Stars!
Well done, Janet! Very well done!It was a brave move from you to write a non-hero male leading character and a woman like Angela! You did beautifully!
I have read both books and I adore them! They both have compelling stories, amazing characters and exceptional writing behind them. They are both two of my favorite books of all-time!
So, that makes me a huge Janet Nissenson fan! I simply adore her work and her writing style. Long novels with precision, details, emotion, heat; novels that speak to body and soul, heart and mind.
We have met Angela in both books, and she was always so sad so pitiless really that I did want to see her happy ending. I wanted to see her happy and smiling and simply enjoy her life and not just live by every day. On the other hand, I was half afraid that her sadness would be too much for me - I don’t really like reading those ugly cry books; life is an ugly cry itself-
But here we are with Shattered and Angela’s story.
We meet exceptional writing again, as it’s usual with Janet. I just love her approach in everything! We discover Angela in a much deeper level than we discovered Ian or Tessa, for example. It feels like Janet connected us straight to Angela’s heart and mind. It was much more emotional and heavy than the previous books. Julia may the be woman we would like to be, Tessa may be the woman who is a total sweetheart, but Angela is closer to the real woman in the way that she was burnt by a man, kept loving that man but in the end, she became stronger than anyone else. It wasn’t like that I identified with her, but I felt for her, I cared for her more intensely than I did with the others; probably because the others did not need that.
No, I don’t identify with Angela, because as strong as she is, she let a man shatter her into a million pieces even years after their breakup. Perhaps it’s because I’ve never been in love or perhaps it’s because we have a similar background and yet, we are completely different. This was why the first half of the book was difficult for me to read, as I couldn’t connect with her the way I wanted, the way she deserved. But that changed in the second half of the book! As she grew stronger and stronger, she finally found herself.
“I finally felt like Angela, not Angie, not Angel, but Angela.”
What an incredible quote. How inspiring and so very true.
When she lost Nick, she lost herself. Yeah, she became successful in her work -which was surprising to me- but at what cost? She lost not only weight, but herself. That could be the most terrible thing that could happen in a person. But she did survive it!
Angela is the woman whose life has never been easy, but she has overcome every single hurdle that comes her way. She is a fierce woman underneath that sadness and I felt elated to watch her emerge from that darkness that had consumed her.
The first half of the book was dark and on the depressing side, but also priceless. Because this is Angela’s journey to finding Angela. We couldn’t reach the destination without knowing the beginning, no matter how heartbreaking it was.
And the ending? It was perfect. Not for every woman, but it was perfect for Angela.
Nick Manning may be the famous and powerful alpha male, but it was Angela who was the true star of this novel.
Finally, I would like to congratulate every woman who has suffered like Angela has and applaud them for their strength and courage and drive to move forward.
This is a book that could make women proud. Because we all fall at some point. Getting up is what makes us strong. And this novel represents that rise of the phoenix.
So, Shattered receives 4 Gorgeous Stars!
Well done, Janet! Very well done!It was a brave move from you to write a non-hero male leading character and a woman like Angela! You did beautifully!
May 7, 2015
Angela hadn't been pushing hard today since she has a tough 50 Kilometer trail race scheduled for next weekend. She runs 20 miles a day. Winters in San Francisco were relatively mild compared to most of the country. Food for Angela has lost its appeal around the same time that her entire world had been shattered. Julia, Lauren and Dwayne were on her all the time about all the weight that she has lost. Angela works in a corner office to be away from people, she hears from her assistant Cara that they have hired the guy to take over for someone who has retired. She never dreamed that it would be the man who shattered her. When Nick went into the office of Angela he was very surprised to see her look the way that she does. Nick is trying to get Angela back but she doesn't want him back. He gets Cara to help him get her to eat and to tell him her schedule. Nick shows up at Angela's race and she wasn't happy to see him there. Nick refuses to give up, he even offered to compromise so they could be together.
Angela Del Carlo is a runner, she is Julia and Lauren's friend. She used to drink a lot and she never thought that Nick would leave. Jessup Prior, she is a very good stalk broker. She never thought that she would see Nick again. Nick Manning used to be a pro football player for the San Fransico 49's. He used to work with Angela, Calls Angela angel. He left Jessup Prior. Julia is a very kind person and way more subtle about Angela's weight loss. She is Lauren's twin. Lauren is the more ballsy of the two and she is very in your face. She was there for Angela through all the drunken nights. Cara is Angela's assistant, she is very loyal and hardworking. Always tries to get Angela to eat. Cara is a hopeless romantic. Dwayne used to be called Dwayne the Dweeb. Angela's boyfriend. He is a long jumper and has a shot of going to the Olympics.
This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I felt very connected with the characters. Janet Nissenson knows how to draw people into the story.
Angela Del Carlo is a runner, she is Julia and Lauren's friend. She used to drink a lot and she never thought that Nick would leave. Jessup Prior, she is a very good stalk broker. She never thought that she would see Nick again. Nick Manning used to be a pro football player for the San Fransico 49's. He used to work with Angela, Calls Angela angel. He left Jessup Prior. Julia is a very kind person and way more subtle about Angela's weight loss. She is Lauren's twin. Lauren is the more ballsy of the two and she is very in your face. She was there for Angela through all the drunken nights. Cara is Angela's assistant, she is very loyal and hardworking. Always tries to get Angela to eat. Cara is a hopeless romantic. Dwayne used to be called Dwayne the Dweeb. Angela's boyfriend. He is a long jumper and has a shot of going to the Olympics.
This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I felt very connected with the characters. Janet Nissenson knows how to draw people into the story.
November 3, 2015
Shattered was very emotional reading. I liked the way it was written. We could see the whole picture and the whole story from beginning. I loved that we could see both POV from Angela and in the last part the POV of Nick. It had shown the whole picture of the story
The book is divided in three parts. The first it’s about the present day, second about the past and the third back in the present day. The book is about relationship between Angela and much older Nick. The story is emotional and in some part heartbreaking. I wish that Angela was a little bit stronger and did fight for herself. But I was a positively surprised by her in the last part of the book where she was stronger and more determined.
A lot of sexual material so it is not recommended for the readers under 18.
Interesting reading.
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
The book is divided in three parts. The first it’s about the present day, second about the past and the third back in the present day. The book is about relationship between Angela and much older Nick. The story is emotional and in some part heartbreaking. I wish that Angela was a little bit stronger and did fight for herself. But I was a positively surprised by her in the last part of the book where she was stronger and more determined.
A lot of sexual material so it is not recommended for the readers under 18.
Interesting reading.
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 20, 2015
Angel and Nick's story was such an emotional and confusing roller coaster. These characters were probably some of the most complex I have read about in the last few years and it was refreshing. At the same time though, it was confusing because I couldn't decide whether to root for their relationship to continue together or for them to heal apart. Their relationship was very toxic and not healthy. It was a relief to see the conclusion on where they ended, which was a much healthier place for both of them. Overall, I really enjoyed the constant uphill battle in the book and consider it a great read.
July 25, 2015
I enjoyed this read...it was good and kept you interested. Angela being a young college graduate and nievely so was a good character. Having seen that this is a third in the series has not been hard to keep up with. Nick is an arrogant and sexy character, but an ass none the less. Angela really did love him and she was hurt. My heart hurt for her. Nick for me could have been a little more understanding and I think he should have felt really really bad for the after effects of his actions. However, it was a really good read and I did enjoy the characters!
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review!
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review!
August 9, 2015
I really love this author. This series of stand alone novels are some of the best I have read in a long time. The only reason I haven't 5 starred these fabulous connected stories is that there is too much sex as filler scenes. The books are very hot reads but the sex and the sex talk is very repetitive
September 1, 2015
I hate pathetic female leads!
May 5, 2015
Everything changed for Angela when Nick walked out of her life. She had surrendered herself to him and somehow lost herself along the way. She has become a shell of herself locking away her heart to never have it broken again. She has pushed the people who care about her far away and somehow makes it through each day by running her ass off and working herself into exhaustion. Just so she doesn't think about the man who shattered her world.
Then Nick slams back into her life. He gets a job where she works and he pursues her. He knows what a mistake he made in letting her go and wants her back in his life. Now he just has to crack through that wall that she has put around her heart and remind her how good they can be together. He has to really work at this.
This is a bit darker than the previous books and it was quite the rollercoaster ride of emotions. I wanted to kick Nick hard for all the pain he caused Angela. Then he made me swoon as he fights so hard to win back her heart. I really did love their story.
I give Shattered 4 hearts!
Then Nick slams back into her life. He gets a job where she works and he pursues her. He knows what a mistake he made in letting her go and wants her back in his life. Now he just has to crack through that wall that she has put around her heart and remind her how good they can be together. He has to really work at this.
This is a bit darker than the previous books and it was quite the rollercoaster ride of emotions. I wanted to kick Nick hard for all the pain he caused Angela. Then he made me swoon as he fights so hard to win back her heart. I really did love their story.
I give Shattered 4 hearts!
May 15, 2015
I have mixed feelings on this book. Though Nick turn around at the end. I did not fall in love with him till after 80% of the book. Angela for 60% of the book was a doormat. Could not get into the characters. This book is a hit/miss for me.
November 26, 2015
Shattered. And boy, it lived up to its name fully. Shattered basically shattered me into pieces and left me broken.
Nick and Angie are a couple who initially wanted different things in their relationship. Nick was the type who always gets what he wants. Charm is a given and he obtains everything that he desires. His upbringing was the cause of his treatment of Angie and it definitely made my blood boil. Just they way he treated her, all out of fear was enough to make me so heated. But I understood, even though I didn't like it.
Love is risky, and he was raised to view it as an inconvenience. Angie changed everything for him. It was such a sight watching him change his ways to get back. Angie. She was the epitome of strength after being broken. Hardening her heart and making life liveable after being in hell just increased my appreciation of her. Her family was barely there for her, her friends were the ones who never left her side and she was smart enough to make the most of what she's gone through.
Angie's journey took me on a roller coaster ride filled with so many twists and turns. It was beautiful reading her story and just being able to live and watch life work out for her.
Great job, Janet. I cried so much but I'm glad I came across this novel.
Nick and Angie are a couple who initially wanted different things in their relationship. Nick was the type who always gets what he wants. Charm is a given and he obtains everything that he desires. His upbringing was the cause of his treatment of Angie and it definitely made my blood boil. Just they way he treated her, all out of fear was enough to make me so heated. But I understood, even though I didn't like it.
Love is risky, and he was raised to view it as an inconvenience. Angie changed everything for him. It was such a sight watching him change his ways to get back. Angie. She was the epitome of strength after being broken. Hardening her heart and making life liveable after being in hell just increased my appreciation of her. Her family was barely there for her, her friends were the ones who never left her side and she was smart enough to make the most of what she's gone through.
Angie's journey took me on a roller coaster ride filled with so many twists and turns. It was beautiful reading her story and just being able to live and watch life work out for her.
Great job, Janet. I cried so much but I'm glad I came across this novel.
August 27, 2021
This is not romance. This is a graphically detailed description of a toxic and abusive relationship that is being held up as a “romance”. Disgusting.
Fucking hell, the first time they really talk after he barges back into her life and she answers all of his intrusive questions and allows him to manhandle her. And she still kept asking him for permission to do shit. And she fucking got aroused by this arrogant asshole who literally SHATTERED her for four years.
I hate Angela. I hate her spineless ass and her neediness and clinginess. I hated her in all of the previous books and most likely will in all of the future ones as well. She is the epitome of a doormat. And Nick is the epitome of a douchebag, dickwad, selfish and abusive bastard.
She doesn’t even make him grovel or work hard to get back into her pants. She just lets him barge his way back into her life after two very half hearted brush offs. Her panties are damp so obviously she should forgive all the shit he put her through.
And she just accepts that he will return to being the center of her universe again. No one person should ever be the center of someone’s universe. That is an extremely toxic, unhealthy, and co-dependent relationship. He made her an alcoholic, almost anorexic zombie for FOUR years. I’m sorry, but that’s just too fucking long for someone to exist in a borderline catatonic state. It’s beyond what I feel is believable.
No one should fear making plans of their own or cut off all outside relationships just to be at the beck and call of one person. And, yeah, her family is toxic and it was good for her to cut them off, but that’s just bullshit emotional manipulation from the author. Angela also cut off her true friends like Lauren and Julia and couldn’t make new friends at work because she had to be available for Nick’s every whim.
Having him say all that shit at the 99% mark in the LAST chapter is utter bullshit. And we don’t even get to see him proving his words? After all, it’s the last chapter. You can say whatever the fuck you feel like saying in the moment. Doesn’t mean you’re going to follow through with it. And it took literal BRAIN SURGERY for him to finally pull his head out of his ass and pull his big boy pants on? What a joke. He’s not a real man or anyone’s hero. Boohoo he had a cold, strict father and a famous mother. Poor him. What a fucking coward.
And Lauren and Julia forgave him WAY too easily. I kept waiting for Lauren to beat him up. The author seemed to be building up to that, but she let him off way too easily. He feels bad for 5 minutes and suddenly Lauren can just tell he’s changed and is okay with him being back in Angela’s life. All this does is lower my opinion of Lauren a whole bunch.
And that last bit with her father finally growing some semblance of a spine? What utter bullshit. What drivel. Giving the reader what they want, but with the least effort possible. Again, it took literal BRAIN SURGERY for him to finally pull his head out of his ass and pull his big boy pants on? He’s not finally a good father. He’s a fucking coward who I can never feel any respect towards. It feels like the author just threw it in there to appease beta readers who complained about the family. Better to just cut off her family completely than attempt to give them some semblance of a redemption with this move in the LAST chapter.
I’m skimming this book and I still hate it’s guts. If you want an in depth dive into the type of relationship you never want to be in, then read this book! If you want to watch a TSTL woman ignore all the FLASHING red flags and plunge into an abusive relationship anyway, then read this book! If you want to feel utter fury and anger and disgust and frustration the entire time you’re reading, then read this book!
tldr; don’t read this disgusting excuse for a so-called “romance”. save yourself the hours and emotional anguish.
ps. it feels like the author got sick of writing about the most perfect couple in Splendor and decided to write about the most fucked up and stupid couple in Shattered.
pps. explaining all of the relationship growth and changes in the epilogue with a few lousy paragraphs is cheating. seems the author also got sick of this couple’s bullshit if she wasn’t willing to show us life after the i-royally-fucked-up-speech beyond a few measly sentences. Classic case of all tell, no show.
This so disappointing, because one of the reasons I loved Serendipity so much is because the author really took the time to explore the entire relationship from beginning to end. No stupid time jumps that skipped major relationship milestones, only to quickly back-step and fill in the missing time with a few unsatisfying paragraphs. The author took us through everything from the meeting to the beginning of their relationship post-affair and on through the pitfalls every relationship struggles with.
This book forced us to sit through the first “relationship”, through the breakup period and on to the make up period. But then it ended. We didn’t actually get to experience the new and improved relationship, but are instead told that it happened and everything is hearts and unicorns shitting rainbows forever and ever now and we really shouldn’t worry too much about the how’s and just focus on the happily ever after. I call bullshit. If you were able to write through the nitty and gritty with the first book, then why couldn’t you do it for Angela and Nick? I guess she really does hate them as much as I do.
I’m going to read Sensational now, but with a lot more trepidation and not nearly as much excitement.
Fucking hell, the first time they really talk after he barges back into her life and she answers all of his intrusive questions and allows him to manhandle her. And she still kept asking him for permission to do shit. And she fucking got aroused by this arrogant asshole who literally SHATTERED her for four years.
I hate Angela. I hate her spineless ass and her neediness and clinginess. I hated her in all of the previous books and most likely will in all of the future ones as well. She is the epitome of a doormat. And Nick is the epitome of a douchebag, dickwad, selfish and abusive bastard.
She doesn’t even make him grovel or work hard to get back into her pants. She just lets him barge his way back into her life after two very half hearted brush offs. Her panties are damp so obviously she should forgive all the shit he put her through.
And she just accepts that he will return to being the center of her universe again. No one person should ever be the center of someone’s universe. That is an extremely toxic, unhealthy, and co-dependent relationship. He made her an alcoholic, almost anorexic zombie for FOUR years. I’m sorry, but that’s just too fucking long for someone to exist in a borderline catatonic state. It’s beyond what I feel is believable.
No one should fear making plans of their own or cut off all outside relationships just to be at the beck and call of one person. And, yeah, her family is toxic and it was good for her to cut them off, but that’s just bullshit emotional manipulation from the author. Angela also cut off her true friends like Lauren and Julia and couldn’t make new friends at work because she had to be available for Nick’s every whim.
Having him say all that shit at the 99% mark in the LAST chapter is utter bullshit. And we don’t even get to see him proving his words? After all, it’s the last chapter. You can say whatever the fuck you feel like saying in the moment. Doesn’t mean you’re going to follow through with it. And it took literal BRAIN SURGERY for him to finally pull his head out of his ass and pull his big boy pants on? What a joke. He’s not a real man or anyone’s hero. Boohoo he had a cold, strict father and a famous mother. Poor him. What a fucking coward.
And Lauren and Julia forgave him WAY too easily. I kept waiting for Lauren to beat him up. The author seemed to be building up to that, but she let him off way too easily. He feels bad for 5 minutes and suddenly Lauren can just tell he’s changed and is okay with him being back in Angela’s life. All this does is lower my opinion of Lauren a whole bunch.
And that last bit with her father finally growing some semblance of a spine? What utter bullshit. What drivel. Giving the reader what they want, but with the least effort possible. Again, it took literal BRAIN SURGERY for him to finally pull his head out of his ass and pull his big boy pants on? He’s not finally a good father. He’s a fucking coward who I can never feel any respect towards. It feels like the author just threw it in there to appease beta readers who complained about the family. Better to just cut off her family completely than attempt to give them some semblance of a redemption with this move in the LAST chapter.
I’m skimming this book and I still hate it’s guts. If you want an in depth dive into the type of relationship you never want to be in, then read this book! If you want to watch a TSTL woman ignore all the FLASHING red flags and plunge into an abusive relationship anyway, then read this book! If you want to feel utter fury and anger and disgust and frustration the entire time you’re reading, then read this book!
tldr; don’t read this disgusting excuse for a so-called “romance”. save yourself the hours and emotional anguish.
ps. it feels like the author got sick of writing about the most perfect couple in Splendor and decided to write about the most fucked up and stupid couple in Shattered.
pps. explaining all of the relationship growth and changes in the epilogue with a few lousy paragraphs is cheating. seems the author also got sick of this couple’s bullshit if she wasn’t willing to show us life after the i-royally-fucked-up-speech beyond a few measly sentences. Classic case of all tell, no show.
This so disappointing, because one of the reasons I loved Serendipity so much is because the author really took the time to explore the entire relationship from beginning to end. No stupid time jumps that skipped major relationship milestones, only to quickly back-step and fill in the missing time with a few unsatisfying paragraphs. The author took us through everything from the meeting to the beginning of their relationship post-affair and on through the pitfalls every relationship struggles with.
This book forced us to sit through the first “relationship”, through the breakup period and on to the make up period. But then it ended. We didn’t actually get to experience the new and improved relationship, but are instead told that it happened and everything is hearts and unicorns shitting rainbows forever and ever now and we really shouldn’t worry too much about the how’s and just focus on the happily ever after. I call bullshit. If you were able to write through the nitty and gritty with the first book, then why couldn’t you do it for Angela and Nick? I guess she really does hate them as much as I do.
I’m going to read Sensational now, but with a lot more trepidation and not nearly as much excitement.
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