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The Shattered Hearts #1
Broken
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26This is not a love story.
It’s the story of what happens after love turns into control, fear, and survival.
Kate and Jax have been together for eight years. They’ve weathered the ups and downs, built a life, and dreamed of a future—until the pressure of IVF begins to crack their carefully held balance.
On the surface, Jax is the perfect boyfriend. But beneath it, something darker is clawing its way out, tightening its grip as Kate slowly disappears.
Having lost herself completely, Kate must find the strength to break free and rediscover who she is, before it’s too late.
Sometimes, the worst storms clear the way for the life you were always meant to have.
It’s the story of what happens after love turns into control, fear, and survival.
Kate and Jax have been together for eight years. They’ve weathered the ups and downs, built a life, and dreamed of a future—until the pressure of IVF begins to crack their carefully held balance.
On the surface, Jax is the perfect boyfriend. But beneath it, something darker is clawing its way out, tightening its grip as Kate slowly disappears.
Having lost herself completely, Kate must find the strength to break free and rediscover who she is, before it’s too late.
Sometimes, the worst storms clear the way for the life you were always meant to have.
143 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 1, 2026
Be prepared for this to make you feel allllll the feels! Kate and Jaxon are the perfect couple…. Or so it seems. Struggling to have a baby, nothing is quite what it seems behind closed doors. Nothing Kate does is ever good enough! Jaxon is the ultimate character that you love to hate. Her stepdad Bill and her ex Kel are so well done, and her dog Kenz is so sweet! While this is most definitely not a love story, maybe by the end Kate will learn to love herself, and isn’t that the best love story anyway?
April 8, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author
Kate… oh Kate. My heart really aches for her. There’s nothing more painful than a woman’s love being used like a toy, her sacrifices being dismissed like they never exist. Nothing hits Kate harder than her tons of regret from choosing the wrong man for eight years.
Jackson is not just forcing Kate to go through a series of medical procedures so they can have a baby. He also verbally abuses and gaslights her constantly, only to follow it with dramatic apologies, as if Kate doesn’t carry the wounds at all. But Kate stays. She endures, thinking he will change, thinking she will finally be appreciated… because it was never like this years before.
This book teaches me to recognize red flags in a relationship as early as possible. See them, and do not be in denial. After that, save yourself before guilt starts creeping in. And women need to be aware… once a man abuses you, the way he does it only grows more and more extreme over time.
Kenz is such a lovely supporting pet character. Though sometimes I wish he would just bite Jackson every time he hurts Kate. And Kate’s parents… they are the clearest water when her world starts to collapse. Kate once pushed them away, especially her mom, while building her own life, but they return that distance with love, washing away her regrets.
“I’ve been a horrible daughter, pushing her away all this time. I can see now she only ever wanted what was best for me.”
“When that sick feeling curls in your gut, you trust it. Even if it turns your world upside down. You run. You choose yourself. Because apology don’t mean change. They just buy time until the next time you upset them.”
Kate… oh Kate. My heart really aches for her. There’s nothing more painful than a woman’s love being used like a toy, her sacrifices being dismissed like they never exist. Nothing hits Kate harder than her tons of regret from choosing the wrong man for eight years.
Jackson is not just forcing Kate to go through a series of medical procedures so they can have a baby. He also verbally abuses and gaslights her constantly, only to follow it with dramatic apologies, as if Kate doesn’t carry the wounds at all. But Kate stays. She endures, thinking he will change, thinking she will finally be appreciated… because it was never like this years before.
This book teaches me to recognize red flags in a relationship as early as possible. See them, and do not be in denial. After that, save yourself before guilt starts creeping in. And women need to be aware… once a man abuses you, the way he does it only grows more and more extreme over time.
Kenz is such a lovely supporting pet character. Though sometimes I wish he would just bite Jackson every time he hurts Kate. And Kate’s parents… they are the clearest water when her world starts to collapse. Kate once pushed them away, especially her mom, while building her own life, but they return that distance with love, washing away her regrets.
“I’ve been a horrible daughter, pushing her away all this time. I can see now she only ever wanted what was best for me.”
“When that sick feeling curls in your gut, you trust it. Even if it turns your world upside down. You run. You choose yourself. Because apology don’t mean change. They just buy time until the next time you upset them.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an advanced copy from the author.
4.5 *
This book had me gripped from the start, and I finished it very quickly. Only a short read. But it’s very powerful. Jax is on my top 5 most hated book men! What an absolute bell end.
I found this book well researched on all topics that was discussed in the books. And is definitely a heart breaking but an empowering story to be told.
Well done on a great short story
4.5 *
This book had me gripped from the start, and I finished it very quickly. Only a short read. But it’s very powerful. Jax is on my top 5 most hated book men! What an absolute bell end.
I found this book well researched on all topics that was discussed in the books. And is definitely a heart breaking but an empowering story to be told.
Well done on a great short story
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC PROVIDED BY AUTHOR # ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN
Book by Maddison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve
What a pair they make in writing this book, I loved it!
This book was a heavy, emotional read that doesn’t hold back when it comes to portraying the reality of an abusive relationship.
PLEASE GUYS DONT SKIP THE TRIGGER WARNING PAGE, YOU CAN EXPECT
* EMOTIONAL ABUSE🤬
* GASLIGHTING ⚠️
* PHYSICAL ABUSE 🚺
* SILENT TREATMENT 🙄
* ATTEMPTED RAPE 💔
* CHEATING 👊
* NEGLECT 🤢
The story follows a woman who, after eight long years, is simply too drained and worn down to leave.
That exhaustion seeps through every page, making her situation feel painfully real.
The authors do a job of showing how abuse isn’t always loud at first. It starts with manipulation and gaslighting, slowly eroding her sense of self. By the time the relationship escalates, she’s already emotionally shattered.
One of the most difficult aspects to read was how he pushed her into IVF while she was already in such a fragile state. It added another layer of control and emotional strain that felt deeply unsettling.
As the story progresses, the abuse becomes more severe, including infidelity and attempted sexual violence. These moments are hard to read, but they underline just how dangerous and toxic the relationship becomes.
It’s not romanticized, which I appreciated, but it is intense, dont ignore it! If you're not ready to read it....
There is a somewhat hopeful ending, which I was grateful for, but I did feel like the book missed an opportunity. After everything she endured, I wanted more of her healing journey. We get a glimpse of it, but it feels rushed compared to the depth of her suffering. Seeing her rebuild herself would have made the ending far more satisfying.
One small highlight for me was her dog. In such a dark story, that companionship brought moments of warmth and comfort that felt grounding.
Overall, this is a powerful but difficult read. It shines in its raw depiction of abuse, but could have been even stronger with a deeper exploration of recovery and healing
Book by Maddison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve
What a pair they make in writing this book, I loved it!
This book was a heavy, emotional read that doesn’t hold back when it comes to portraying the reality of an abusive relationship.
PLEASE GUYS DONT SKIP THE TRIGGER WARNING PAGE, YOU CAN EXPECT
* EMOTIONAL ABUSE🤬
* GASLIGHTING ⚠️
* PHYSICAL ABUSE 🚺
* SILENT TREATMENT 🙄
* ATTEMPTED RAPE 💔
* CHEATING 👊
* NEGLECT 🤢
The story follows a woman who, after eight long years, is simply too drained and worn down to leave.
That exhaustion seeps through every page, making her situation feel painfully real.
The authors do a job of showing how abuse isn’t always loud at first. It starts with manipulation and gaslighting, slowly eroding her sense of self. By the time the relationship escalates, she’s already emotionally shattered.
One of the most difficult aspects to read was how he pushed her into IVF while she was already in such a fragile state. It added another layer of control and emotional strain that felt deeply unsettling.
As the story progresses, the abuse becomes more severe, including infidelity and attempted sexual violence. These moments are hard to read, but they underline just how dangerous and toxic the relationship becomes.
It’s not romanticized, which I appreciated, but it is intense, dont ignore it! If you're not ready to read it....
There is a somewhat hopeful ending, which I was grateful for, but I did feel like the book missed an opportunity. After everything she endured, I wanted more of her healing journey. We get a glimpse of it, but it feels rushed compared to the depth of her suffering. Seeing her rebuild herself would have made the ending far more satisfying.
One small highlight for me was her dog. In such a dark story, that companionship brought moments of warmth and comfort that felt grounding.
Overall, this is a powerful but difficult read. It shines in its raw depiction of abuse, but could have been even stronger with a deeper exploration of recovery and healing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this! It was a quick, easy read that kept me wanting more so I’m so glad to hear that there’s another book in the series on the way! The story revolves around Kate and Jaxon, who have been together 8 years and are trying for a baby through IVF. Jaxon seems like the perfect guy to the outside world; good looking, charismatic, hardworking… but looks can be deceiving. Behind closed doors, he is cold and heartless towards Kate and treats her like an inconvenience, only useful to him for keeping the house clean, cooking his tea, and satisfying his needs. The IVF appointments are an eye opener in many ways. The authors clearly know a lot about the subject and deal with it in a very thought provoking, respectful way. Through Kate’s perspective we see how much the invasive procedures are breaking her, and how she is going through all this pain and heartbreak for Jaxon because she loves him so much and just wants to make him happy. Jaxon on the other hand plays the doting, caring husband in front of the admiring nurses and then shows his true colours later, abandoning Kate and leaving her hungry and in pain when she needs him the most. I won’t write any spoilers but I will say that if you think Jaxon sounds like a despicable character now, just wait till the end! Kate is such a likeable and relatable character and Jaxon is a true devil in disguise, but will Kate ever be strong enough to leave him for good? And of course the real question is, will Jaxon let her??
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received by author
This book is a gripping and raw narrative that delves into the complexities of relationships, making it extremely relatable for many women. The story revolves around Kate and Jax, a couple whose relationship is fraught with tension from the very beginning of the book. As the chapters unfold, I was drawn into their world, feeling as though i was witnessing the events unfold in real-time.
Jax, who appears to be the perfect man on the surface, starts to slip and reveals his true nature even in public settings. Kate, on the other hand, is a character who has been so deeply affected by Jax’s behaviour that she struggles to recognise herself, driven by a desperate need for his love, even at the cost of her mental and physical well-being. In stark contrast, Bill, Kate’s stepfather, is a character who evokes sympathy and warmth, as he genuinely adores Kate and her mother.
The book is a compelling read, so much so that it is difficult to put down, Its writing style is both quick and comprehensive, offering a solid story that captivates and urges readers to continue until the very end. It is an ideal companion for a journey or a quiet Friday night with a glass of wine. However, it is important to note that this is not a traditional love story; rather, it is a powerful depiction of a woman’s struggle for a new beginning.
This book is a gripping and raw narrative that delves into the complexities of relationships, making it extremely relatable for many women. The story revolves around Kate and Jax, a couple whose relationship is fraught with tension from the very beginning of the book. As the chapters unfold, I was drawn into their world, feeling as though i was witnessing the events unfold in real-time.
Jax, who appears to be the perfect man on the surface, starts to slip and reveals his true nature even in public settings. Kate, on the other hand, is a character who has been so deeply affected by Jax’s behaviour that she struggles to recognise herself, driven by a desperate need for his love, even at the cost of her mental and physical well-being. In stark contrast, Bill, Kate’s stepfather, is a character who evokes sympathy and warmth, as he genuinely adores Kate and her mother.
The book is a compelling read, so much so that it is difficult to put down, Its writing style is both quick and comprehensive, offering a solid story that captivates and urges readers to continue until the very end. It is an ideal companion for a journey or a quiet Friday night with a glass of wine. However, it is important to note that this is not a traditional love story; rather, it is a powerful depiction of a woman’s struggle for a new beginning.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Broken by Maddison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way.
This book had me completely hooked from the very first page and hit me right in the feels. I could not put it down and ended up reading it in just hours instead of the days it normally takes me to finish a book.
What a heart-wrenching, emotional story.
Kate and Jax’s relationship felt terrifyingly real, and that’s what made this book so powerful. The reality of what Kate goes through is sadly the reality for so many women, and reading her journey broke my heart while also making me root for her strength every step of the way.
And Jax? The absolute rage this man made me feel… wow. The narcissistic manipulation, control, and emotional damage had my blood boiling. He’s one of those characters you genuinely despise because he feels so believable.
Broken is raw, emotional, frustrating, devastating, and ultimately unforgettable. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
⚠️ Please check trigger warnings before reading.
#BookTok #ARCReader #CurrentlyReading #BookReviewer #broken
This book had me completely hooked from the very first page and hit me right in the feels. I could not put it down and ended up reading it in just hours instead of the days it normally takes me to finish a book.
What a heart-wrenching, emotional story.
Kate and Jax’s relationship felt terrifyingly real, and that’s what made this book so powerful. The reality of what Kate goes through is sadly the reality for so many women, and reading her journey broke my heart while also making me root for her strength every step of the way.
And Jax? The absolute rage this man made me feel… wow. The narcissistic manipulation, control, and emotional damage had my blood boiling. He’s one of those characters you genuinely despise because he feels so believable.
Broken is raw, emotional, frustrating, devastating, and ultimately unforgettable. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
⚠️ Please check trigger warnings before reading.
#BookTok #ARCReader #CurrentlyReading #BookReviewer #broken
Review of advance copy received from Author
Im not one for writing actual reviews because I find books to be deeply personal and what works for one person, isnt guaranteed to work for another however this deserves a written review.
This book is powerful, its raw and its real.
Im privileged to know one of the authors personally and I see them and their reality come through in the plot and the characters but that just evidences how well its written.
It reads almost like a diary, you are given access to the event, to the feelings, the very real reality of abuse.
Its worth noting that I havent hated a male character in quite this way since I was introduced to Caleb in A Little Life, its the kind of hated you feel in your bones, a hatred you can taste but again I think that speaks volumes about how well hes written.
The ending is beautiful, its everything I wanted it to be, it embodies the hope you had for Kate from the beginning.
I loved it, I sobbed, I smiled.. I loved it ♡
This book is powerful, its raw and its real.
Im privileged to know one of the authors personally and I see them and their reality come through in the plot and the characters but that just evidences how well its written.
It reads almost like a diary, you are given access to the event, to the feelings, the very real reality of abuse.
Its worth noting that I havent hated a male character in quite this way since I was introduced to Caleb in A Little Life, its the kind of hated you feel in your bones, a hatred you can taste but again I think that speaks volumes about how well hes written.
The ending is beautiful, its everything I wanted it to be, it embodies the hope you had for Kate from the beginning.
I loved it, I sobbed, I smiled.. I loved it ♡
Review of advance copy
Advanced copy from author
This book was an absolutely incredible read from start to finish. The plot is gripping and well thought out, with twists and turns that kept me constantly engaged. I genuinely didn’t want to put it down—it’s the kind of story that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
From the very first page, I was completely hooked. The pacing is perfect, and each chapter leaves you wanting more, making it impossible not to keep reading “just one more.”
What really stood out to me was how deeply I connected with the main character, Kate. The writing is so powerful and emotive that you truly feel every high and low alongside her. Her journey is raw, relatable, and incredibly moving.
If you’re looking for a book that takes you on an emotional roller coaster, this is definitely the one for you. It’s a story that stays with you long after you’ve finished the last page.
This book was an absolutely incredible read from start to finish. The plot is gripping and well thought out, with twists and turns that kept me constantly engaged. I genuinely didn’t want to put it down—it’s the kind of story that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
From the very first page, I was completely hooked. The pacing is perfect, and each chapter leaves you wanting more, making it impossible not to keep reading “just one more.”
What really stood out to me was how deeply I connected with the main character, Kate. The writing is so powerful and emotive that you truly feel every high and low alongside her. Her journey is raw, relatable, and incredibly moving.
If you’re looking for a book that takes you on an emotional roller coaster, this is definitely the one for you. It’s a story that stays with you long after you’ve finished the last page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
We follow the story of Kate and Jax, who have been together for eight years, in those years the love Kate once knew has turned into control fear and now survival.
We see their relationship become one sided, we see Kate doing anything she can for an easy life and to make Jax happy.
This novel has all the feelings in!
This book caught me hookline and sinker! I absolutely ate this novel up!
This definitely is a heart tugging novel, one which has everything from what once used to be a loving relationship to one with control, manipulation and narcissistic behaviour.
This was the first novel by this authors I have read and I can hands down say it won't be the last.
I am looking forward too seeing what else they have in store for us!
We see their relationship become one sided, we see Kate doing anything she can for an easy life and to make Jax happy.
This novel has all the feelings in!
This book caught me hookline and sinker! I absolutely ate this novel up!
This definitely is a heart tugging novel, one which has everything from what once used to be a loving relationship to one with control, manipulation and narcissistic behaviour.
This was the first novel by this authors I have read and I can hands down say it won't be the last.
I am looking forward too seeing what else they have in store for us!
Review of advance copy received from Author
To anyone who has been in an abusive relationship, be it verbal or physical this one will resonate with you and stay with you after you put it down. Kate is like most in this situation, hoping for the best and just waiting for the "him" she fell in love with to return. When betrayal turns into heartbreak there is only one thing you can do; and that is survive. And that my friends, is exactly what Kate does. Jaxson went from bad to the worst and the spiral was something that actually living thru personally, was written so well and I felt it in my bones. This was a great emotional and quick read. I highly recommend if you're looking for a tug on your heart strings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed by Rose on behalf of the Plot Thickens Book Club
Title: Broken
Author: Madison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I absolutely loved this book and once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. Covering a subject that could have triggers for some it was tastefully and compassionately written and care has been taken to ensure that there weren't any errors in the book. I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to their next.
Title: Broken
Author: Madison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I absolutely loved this book and once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. Covering a subject that could have triggers for some it was tastefully and compassionately written and care has been taken to ensure that there weren't any errors in the book. I would definitely recommend this book and look forward to their next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was hooked from the start! I couldn’t put it down.
I became so invested in the FMC. Katie! I was waiting to see if she would finally leave Jax! He definitely didn’t value her as a person.
I loved the scene in the Dr.s office when Jax had the audacity to say it’s not me I’m good ! Then the dr stated they may just not be medically compatible! That was great!! She was try to nicely put him in his place!
I definitely am excited for the next book in the series!
I became so invested in the FMC. Katie! I was waiting to see if she would finally leave Jax! He definitely didn’t value her as a person.
I loved the scene in the Dr.s office when Jax had the audacity to say it’s not me I’m good ! Then the dr stated they may just not be medically compatible! That was great!! She was try to nicely put him in his place!
I definitely am excited for the next book in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this book as a ARC review.
This book is a dark romance but it's NOT a love story it's one of survival.
It's raw, powerful and very emotional.
Once I picked it up I couldn't stop.
My heart broke for Kate the FMC, I cried so many times for her.
I absolutely detested the MMC, Jax certainly didn't deserve her.
If you love a powerful book then this one is for you.
This for me is ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A remarkable story.
This book is a dark romance but it's NOT a love story it's one of survival.
It's raw, powerful and very emotional.
Once I picked it up I couldn't stop.
My heart broke for Kate the FMC, I cried so many times for her.
I absolutely detested the MMC, Jax certainly didn't deserve her.
If you love a powerful book then this one is for you.
This for me is ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A remarkable story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Warning, please read your triggers before going in to this book. For a short story this book really packs a punch.
The authors have taken great care to research such a tough topic and it really hits hard. Hate Jax, love Bill.
Cannot wait to read the next instalments of this story. Need to know what happens next and more about the beginning of this journey too
The pacing is amazing, the story develops at an amazing pace. You become hooked from page 1
The authors have taken great care to research such a tough topic and it really hits hard. Hate Jax, love Bill.
Cannot wait to read the next instalments of this story. Need to know what happens next and more about the beginning of this journey too
The pacing is amazing, the story develops at an amazing pace. You become hooked from page 1
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really loved this! It’s a quick read but so emotional, especially around the IVF journey and miscarriage. You really feel the pain, the hope and the heartbreak, and it’s written in such a raw, honest way.
What got me most was how alone she is through it all. Jax seems perfect to everyone else, but behind closed doors he’s cold and distant, which makes everything she’s going through even more heartbreaking.
Such a powerful story!
What got me most was how alone she is through it all. Jax seems perfect to everyone else, but behind closed doors he’s cold and distant, which makes everything she’s going through even more heartbreaking.
Such a powerful story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story truly left me heartbroken! The authors have done an amazing job and putting into words what some people have to endure when in a DV relationship. The writing really drew out a lot of emotions and gave such an in site into these types of situations.
The book was quick, easy to read and easy to follow. I would definitely recommend this book and I feel privileged to have been given a copy ahead of release!
The book was quick, easy to read and easy to follow. I would definitely recommend this book and I feel privileged to have been given a copy ahead of release!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Graphic but awesome book, I loved the dedication page! This book is definitely not a love story but a story of survival and coming out the other end still alive and knowing that people do this on a daily basic. Amazing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is an exceptional read , with a true to life story , totally compelling , I couldn’t put it down
Review of advance copy received from Author
This character Kate is very relatable. Ignoring red flags and sacrificing her own mental and emotional health for a man over 8 years almost destroyed her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed by Kirsty Wheeler
Title: Broken
Author: Madison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book was captivating and had me hooked from the very beginning. Katie finds herself trapped in an abusive relationship, with Jax manipulating every aspect of her life—from unwanted IVF treatment to controlling her decisions.
The story takes an unexpected turn with a compelling plot twist, and the reappearance of an old flame adds another layer of emotion and intrigue.
I would definitely recommend this book and am hoping there will be a follow-on, as I’d love to see where Katie’s journey goes next.
Title: Broken
Author: Madison Lily & Mazikeen Nieve
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book was captivating and had me hooked from the very beginning. Katie finds herself trapped in an abusive relationship, with Jax manipulating every aspect of her life—from unwanted IVF treatment to controlling her decisions.
The story takes an unexpected turn with a compelling plot twist, and the reappearance of an old flame adds another layer of emotion and intrigue.
I would definitely recommend this book and am hoping there will be a follow-on, as I’d love to see where Katie’s journey goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed by Sandra
REVIEWED BY SANDRA I read Broken and from the very first page, I was completely hooked. I honestly couldn’t put it down. The pacing, the tension, the characters… everything pulled me in and didn’t let go. It’s one of those stories that stays with you even after you’ve finished the last chapter.
Such an amazing read, and now I’m already counting down the days until the next book. I need to know what happens next!
REVIEWED BY SANDRA I read Broken and from the very first page, I was completely hooked. I honestly couldn’t put it down. The pacing, the tension, the characters… everything pulled me in and didn’t let go. It’s one of those stories that stays with you even after you’ve finished the last chapter.
Such an amazing read, and now I’m already counting down the days until the next book. I need to know what happens next!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews