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The Shattered Hearts #1
Broken
This 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.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 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?
August 16, 2026
Broken is a heartfelt and emotional read that tackles some incredibly difficult and sensitive themes. The story is portrayed so realistically that at times, I found it easy to forget I was reading fiction.
Kate was incredibly well written, and the authors did such a good job of making me feel deeply sorry for her. I found myself desperately wanting her to get the happy ending she deserved. I would love to see how her life continues from where the book ends.
Personally, I would have loved a little more detail surrounding some of the happier memories, her getting her dog as a source of emotional support and comfort, and more development of her relationships before she was forced to give them up.
Overall, this was a powerful way to portray such a difficult and rarely discussed subject.
This is not a love story. This is the story of what happens when love turns into control, fear and survival.
Kate was incredibly well written, and the authors did such a good job of making me feel deeply sorry for her. I found myself desperately wanting her to get the happy ending she deserved. I would love to see how her life continues from where the book ends.
Personally, I would have loved a little more detail surrounding some of the happier memories, her getting her dog as a source of emotional support and comfort, and more development of her relationships before she was forced to give them up.
Overall, this was a powerful way to portray such a difficult and rarely discussed subject.
This is not a love story. This is the story of what happens when love turns into control, fear and survival.
August 14, 2026
BROKEN BY MADDISON LILY AND MAZIKEEN NIEVE
I can only give this book 5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I was hooked from the very beginning until the very end.
Talk about a piece of work iykyk.
To the point I messaged one of the authors letting her know I thought he was a right prick 🤣🤣🤣
I started this book this morning and finished early afternoon today.
Loved every page.
Brilliant.
Looking forward to picking up the next book but these amazing authors ☺
I can only give this book 5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I was hooked from the very beginning until the very end.
Talk about a piece of work iykyk.
To the point I messaged one of the authors letting her know I thought he was a right prick 🤣🤣🤣
I started this book this morning and finished early afternoon today.
Loved every page.
Brilliant.
Looking forward to picking up the next book but these amazing authors ☺
August 16, 2026
A powerful story. A lady Kate who is in a controlling relationship with Jax
I felt the emotion in this book.
There is triggers in this book such as domestic abuse.
I am looking forward to reading the next book .
I felt the emotion in this book.
There is triggers in this book such as domestic abuse.
I am looking forward to reading the next book .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
I love a fast little read ! Cant wait to read the other books in the series.
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
July 18, 2026
I’ll tell you what I loved about this book was how in touch with reality it felt.
This is not a love story.
Kate and Jax have been together for eight years.
They’ve gone through all the ups and downs, built a life together, and they’ve dreamed of a future. That’s until the pressure of IVF begins to crack everything.
For a Novella, this story packed a punch but not in the way I thought it would.
This book felt so raw, and realistic to me I almost felt like this was someones real life experience of domestic abuse, which just so happened to be turned into a book.
I genuinely felt worried and scared for our FMC Kate. Her thought processes, her emotions, it pulled me right into her world like a fly on the wall.
Regarding genre, I don’t actually know where this fits because almost 100 books later I still class myself as a relatively new reader.
I wouldn’t say this is a dark romance. There’s not any romance at all.
This is a story of what happens after love turns into control, fear, and survival and it makes you realise that absolutely anybody could be living this situation right now.
It’s short, the pacing is quick and the writing style is enough to get you sucked in.
It doesn’t feel far fetched, it doesn’t feel like the authors are looking for shock factor either. What this feels like is that they care deeply about the subject matter and shows a very accurate portrayal of what many people in this world around us could be living.
This by all means isn’t a literary masterpiece, but I do fully believe this book holds power. It hits you in the core, it opens up the space for conversation, and it’s a book that’s made me think about the many people i’ve crossed paths with in life.
So for that i’m giving this book 4 stars and I look forwards to reviewing the next book.
This is not a love story.
Kate and Jax have been together for eight years.
They’ve gone through all the ups and downs, built a life together, and they’ve dreamed of a future. That’s until the pressure of IVF begins to crack everything.
For a Novella, this story packed a punch but not in the way I thought it would.
This book felt so raw, and realistic to me I almost felt like this was someones real life experience of domestic abuse, which just so happened to be turned into a book.
I genuinely felt worried and scared for our FMC Kate. Her thought processes, her emotions, it pulled me right into her world like a fly on the wall.
Regarding genre, I don’t actually know where this fits because almost 100 books later I still class myself as a relatively new reader.
I wouldn’t say this is a dark romance. There’s not any romance at all.
This is a story of what happens after love turns into control, fear, and survival and it makes you realise that absolutely anybody could be living this situation right now.
It’s short, the pacing is quick and the writing style is enough to get you sucked in.
It doesn’t feel far fetched, it doesn’t feel like the authors are looking for shock factor either. What this feels like is that they care deeply about the subject matter and shows a very accurate portrayal of what many people in this world around us could be living.
This by all means isn’t a literary masterpiece, but I do fully believe this book holds power. It hits you in the core, it opens up the space for conversation, and it’s a book that’s made me think about the many people i’ve crossed paths with in life.
So for that i’m giving this book 4 stars and I look forwards to reviewing the next book.
August 20, 2026
Even tho this was a short read, so many things reminded me and my last relationship I was in.
Now this book has a cheating trope and i’m not a fan of it, but I’m glad I still kept reading.
We the FMC, who is in basically controlling abusive relationship, and when I say this guy is a POS, he is a POS!!!!
Imagine making your woman feel worthless and then basically forcing her to become pregnant (not in SA by the way). She didn’t want to be a mother and after trying for so many times and the test be negative, she goes down the IVF way, and again that comes out negative too.
In the back of her mind she knows she shouldn’t be with this dickhead, but she still lets him get away with the way he treats her, till one day when someone comes knocking on the door.
Everything comes out and the thing with men like him, they do t like it when they’ve been called out (even tho they will spill any BS and turn it so it’s everyone else fault and not take responsibility)
Even tho I had hope for her, I did find myself telling her to leave and go, but again I’ve been in that situation before and it’s always easy for someone on the outside telling you what to do.
This book is a duet and I will be reading book 2, I’m not sure if it’s the same FMC or if it’s different characters.
Also please note there are triggers, so do check them out first.
Now this book has a cheating trope and i’m not a fan of it, but I’m glad I still kept reading.
We the FMC, who is in basically controlling abusive relationship, and when I say this guy is a POS, he is a POS!!!!
Imagine making your woman feel worthless and then basically forcing her to become pregnant (not in SA by the way). She didn’t want to be a mother and after trying for so many times and the test be negative, she goes down the IVF way, and again that comes out negative too.
In the back of her mind she knows she shouldn’t be with this dickhead, but she still lets him get away with the way he treats her, till one day when someone comes knocking on the door.
Everything comes out and the thing with men like him, they do t like it when they’ve been called out (even tho they will spill any BS and turn it so it’s everyone else fault and not take responsibility)
Even tho I had hope for her, I did find myself telling her to leave and go, but again I’ve been in that situation before and it’s always easy for someone on the outside telling you what to do.
This book is a duet and I will be reading book 2, I’m not sure if it’s the same FMC or if it’s different characters.
Also please note there are triggers, so do check them out first.
August 6, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ 4.5 / 5 Stars
I loved and hated this book in equal measure.
To say this was an intense read would be an absolute understatement. Some of the topics were incredibly hard to stomach, especially as they triggered some deeply relatable aspects from my own past. It left me feeling completely shattered alongside the main character.
The immersive writing style pulls you right into the story, you truly feel like you are living every agonising, heart pounding moment right beside her. Because of that raw realism, the emotions hit ten times harder. It was fast-paced, relentless, and evoked a whole spectrum of feelings, but above all: pure, unadulterated rage. I genuinely wanted to take a baseball bat to Jax's face every single day.
I spent the entire book desperately rooting for the FMC to find the strength and courage to walk away. The moment she finally did, I breathed the absolute biggest sigh of relief.
This story is raw, visceral, and definitely lives up to its tagline—“this is not a love story.” I now need to schedule some therapy sessions just to mentally prepare myself for Book 2!
I loved and hated this book in equal measure.
To say this was an intense read would be an absolute understatement. Some of the topics were incredibly hard to stomach, especially as they triggered some deeply relatable aspects from my own past. It left me feeling completely shattered alongside the main character.
The immersive writing style pulls you right into the story, you truly feel like you are living every agonising, heart pounding moment right beside her. Because of that raw realism, the emotions hit ten times harder. It was fast-paced, relentless, and evoked a whole spectrum of feelings, but above all: pure, unadulterated rage. I genuinely wanted to take a baseball bat to Jax's face every single day.
I spent the entire book desperately rooting for the FMC to find the strength and courage to walk away. The moment she finally did, I breathed the absolute biggest sigh of relief.
This story is raw, visceral, and definitely lives up to its tagline—“this is not a love story.” I now need to schedule some therapy sessions just to mentally prepare myself for Book 2!
June 8, 2026
Love the dedication: women who got out and those still fighting to survive. Keep going.
Everything happens for a reason.
Check triggers before reading.
This is not a love story. This is an advance warning at the beginning of this book.
If there was one character that I could crawl into my kindle and strangle … Jax would be it.
Jax all I can say is a bellend. He’s horrible to Kate. He desperately wants kids but Kate doesn’t. She just wants him. He gets violent and aggressive towards her.
Kate doesn’t want kids and after so many failed pregnancies she feels like given up. They decide to go through IVF. She struggles with going to appointments on her own and dealing with everything. Jax turns distant and seems different. He’s keeping secrets.
Loved this story and very excited for these girls and what happens next with their writing journey.
Everything happens for a reason.
Check triggers before reading.
This is not a love story. This is an advance warning at the beginning of this book.
If there was one character that I could crawl into my kindle and strangle … Jax would be it.
Jax all I can say is a bellend. He’s horrible to Kate. He desperately wants kids but Kate doesn’t. She just wants him. He gets violent and aggressive towards her.
Kate doesn’t want kids and after so many failed pregnancies she feels like given up. They decide to go through IVF. She struggles with going to appointments on her own and dealing with everything. Jax turns distant and seems different. He’s keeping secrets.
Loved this story and very excited for these girls and what happens next with their writing journey.
July 15, 2026
If I could show you me at the moment 😭😭😭
I'm destroyed because I've seen what Kate went through and felt everything this story gave and the message it is meant to give .... and that's to fight for you!! Don't let toxic control you.
Kate has me fighting with her through this story.
Don't go into this thinking it's a love story it's not.
It's about choices and being free from bad people.
About what mental ab*se does to you.
I think the authors did incredible on a very upsetting topic!! feeling everything and every emotion Kate went through and the battle to survive and be free.
This was emotional and brilliantly written.
Please check the TW your health matters.
Highly recommend even tho I've been in tears 😢
My views and opinions are my own
I'm destroyed because I've seen what Kate went through and felt everything this story gave and the message it is meant to give .... and that's to fight for you!! Don't let toxic control you.
Kate has me fighting with her through this story.
Don't go into this thinking it's a love story it's not.
It's about choices and being free from bad people.
About what mental ab*se does to you.
I think the authors did incredible on a very upsetting topic!! feeling everything and every emotion Kate went through and the battle to survive and be free.
This was emotional and brilliantly written.
Please check the TW your health matters.
Highly recommend even tho I've been in tears 😢
My views and opinions are my own
July 3, 2026
Just recently got out of a reading slump and WOW ✨ this book was so well written by the third page your hooked. I couldn’t put it down, I found myself walking around the house doing some of my nightly chores while trying to still read this!highly recommend can’t wait for book two. the trigger warnings actually made me intrigued to wanting to read it even more. I haven’t bought a book for my kindle in a while but this was worth the buy.
Kate has a strength that unfortunately not many people can muster and find and Jax. Well I’ll leave my thoughts to myself and let you determine your thoughts on him. Can’t wait for book 2
Kate has a strength that unfortunately not many people can muster and find and Jax. Well I’ll leave my thoughts to myself and let you determine your thoughts on him. Can’t wait for book 2
July 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ someone on TikTok reviewed this and it instantly drew me in and I absolutely flew through it, the only reason this isn’t a 5⭐️ is because I wanted to continue reading about Katie and her life, which maybe we get to see in the next book! What a powerful story, do not go into this thinking it is a love story because it definitely isn’t. This book contains domestic abuse and the way it has been written has been done very accurately it was not far fetched or exaggerated in any sense. Yes just wow this is also a debut novel from these two clearly wonderful humans. Instantly looking into the next book in this series!!
August 10, 2026
If you are looking for a raw, emotional read that puts your heart through the ringer then this one is for you. This book is not a love story by any means; it touches on a difficult topic so please check triggers before reading. The dedication is "This is for all the women who got out and those still fighting to survive. Keep going, you can do this! There is always hope."
This book is about Katie our FMC and she is dealing with a lot, and this is her story of what she goes through, the buildup to what finally makes her realize that she needs to get out and then what happens after. If you like raw, emotional reads then I would recommend grabbing this one.
This book is about Katie our FMC and she is dealing with a lot, and this is her story of what she goes through, the buildup to what finally makes her realize that she needs to get out and then what happens after. If you like raw, emotional reads then I would recommend grabbing this one.
May 29, 2026
*Review of Advanced Copy received by the author*
I love the attention to detail and the descriptions of everything! It’s all very detailed.
It took me a minute to get to this arc due to things in my personal life, but I definitely wanted to take the time to give it the attention it deserved and I agreed to give it.
I love when books aren’t afraid to say what needs to be said to tell the story. I am a very hard reader to please, and I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this.
Highly recommend!
I love the attention to detail and the descriptions of everything! It’s all very detailed.
It took me a minute to get to this arc due to things in my personal life, but I definitely wanted to take the time to give it the attention it deserved and I agreed to give it.
I love when books aren’t afraid to say what needs to be said to tell the story. I am a very hard reader to please, and I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this.
Highly recommend!
July 6, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! The short chapters and fast-paced storyline made it impossible to put down. It’s emotional, gripping, and definitely a page-turner!
Kate was such a likeable character, and my heart broke for her throughout the story. I was rooting for her from beginning to end. I found the insight into the IVF process really interesting, and it added another layer to the story. It’s one of those books that stays on your mind after you’ve finished.
I can’t wait to read more from these authors.
Kate was such a likeable character, and my heart broke for her throughout the story. I was rooting for her from beginning to end. I found the insight into the IVF process really interesting, and it added another layer to the story. It’s one of those books that stays on your mind after you’ve finished.
I can’t wait to read more from these authors.
July 12, 2026
For every girl that enjoys the dark romance, there’s a girl who faces her biggest fears in domestic abuse everyday. Because let’s face it we shouldn’t be romanticising dark romance.
This book tells a fast paced, heartbreaking and very real story of domestic abuse and control. Not my usual type of read but my boyfriend knows the author and convinced me to give it ago, safe to say I’ve read it one day and it was the perfect refreshing cleanse I needed between books.
To all us survivors out there, give this book a try and find what you truly deserve! ❤️
This book tells a fast paced, heartbreaking and very real story of domestic abuse and control. Not my usual type of read but my boyfriend knows the author and convinced me to give it ago, safe to say I’ve read it one day and it was the perfect refreshing cleanse I needed between books.
To all us survivors out there, give this book a try and find what you truly deserve! ❤️
August 4, 2026
This book was an emotional read for me. But in a good way. I feel so many women can relate to Kate with the staying in a situation that you shouldn’t stay in. The red flags of the men we choose to overlook because we feel they’re the one. Kate chose him over and over again for eight years through all the abuse. I was angry and upset, but yet relieved when she reconnects with who she needed to after all that time. It’s an emotional 5 star read hands down.
I was angry ARC reader for this amazing book and so happy I got a chance to read it before the release date.
I was angry ARC reader for this amazing book and so happy I got a chance to read it before the release date.
July 25, 2026
Not one of my favorite quick read books. Some parts were predictable. The male main character definitely infuriated me, but so did the female as she kept going back. Hopefully the sequel has a better ending without being predictable with what is going to happen next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2026
Amazing book
Broken is such a great book. The minute I started reading it I felt for the main character. It really pulls you in. I cannot wait to read the next book!!
Broken is such a great book. The minute I started reading it I felt for the main character. It really pulls you in. I cannot wait to read the next book!!
July 1, 2026
This books deals with domestic abuse and IVF. If these are triggers, I would avoid this book.
The authors do any amazing job of giving the reader a first person look at domestic abuse and why people stay and what makes them leave. The IVF plot line is tied to the abuse, but the process is quite accurate.
The story is simple, but intentionally so. The focus is on the abuse and how IVF is a part of the abuse. The simplicity allows you to focus and sit in the emotions of the FMC.
The authors do any amazing job of giving the reader a first person look at domestic abuse and why people stay and what makes them leave. The IVF plot line is tied to the abuse, but the process is quite accurate.
The story is simple, but intentionally so. The focus is on the abuse and how IVF is a part of the abuse. The simplicity allows you to focus and sit in the emotions of the FMC.
August 20, 2026
Absolutely loved this book, couldn’t put it down I recommend this book can’t wait to read more
August 7, 2026
Heart-wrenching, beautifully written, and deeply emotional. Broken is a stunning look at grief and second chances that kept me hooked from start to finish. The characters feel so real, and their pain is palpable. I received an ARC and am so glad I got to experience this unforgettable story. Don't skip this one!
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
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
Wow, I finished this book in 2 hours, I loved it.
The book follows Katie and Jax and Kate’s IVF journey - I say Kate because Jax isn’t there with her at appointments if he feels he can’t manipulate the way he is seen by others, throughout the entirety of their relationship, Jax is manipulative, emotionally abusive and just downright vile.
Katie knows that she shouldn’t put up with Jax’s behaviour however, he has worn her down to the point where she feels that ‘this is her lot’ in life. But she shows time and again that she is strong, she won’t be worn down even when she feels like she has nowhere else to turn.
The way the book is written is very tasteful and truly highlights the issues and challenges when faced with a partner who is abusive, it does not glorify, it does not ‘cheapen’ the experiences so many of us, myself included, face, or have faced in the past. It highlights how truly supportive families and friends are, even when the manipulator has weaved a completely different story and makes you feel alone and isolated.
The book shows how freeing it can be when a victim says no, but also shows the harsh truths about the reality they live in every day of the relationship and the consequences it causes.
I really resonated with this book as a survivor myself and I would urge anyone to pick this book up and read it to truly understand the depths of manipulation. In this day and age it’s important to know and understand that it isn’t always ‘visible’ and to check your loved ones a little more!
Again, I loved this book, yes it was jarring at times but beautifully and thoughtfully written from Kate’s point of view which is incredibly important!
The book follows Katie and Jax and Kate’s IVF journey - I say Kate because Jax isn’t there with her at appointments if he feels he can’t manipulate the way he is seen by others, throughout the entirety of their relationship, Jax is manipulative, emotionally abusive and just downright vile.
Katie knows that she shouldn’t put up with Jax’s behaviour however, he has worn her down to the point where she feels that ‘this is her lot’ in life. But she shows time and again that she is strong, she won’t be worn down even when she feels like she has nowhere else to turn.
The way the book is written is very tasteful and truly highlights the issues and challenges when faced with a partner who is abusive, it does not glorify, it does not ‘cheapen’ the experiences so many of us, myself included, face, or have faced in the past. It highlights how truly supportive families and friends are, even when the manipulator has weaved a completely different story and makes you feel alone and isolated.
The book shows how freeing it can be when a victim says no, but also shows the harsh truths about the reality they live in every day of the relationship and the consequences it causes.
I really resonated with this book as a survivor myself and I would urge anyone to pick this book up and read it to truly understand the depths of manipulation. In this day and age it’s important to know and understand that it isn’t always ‘visible’ and to check your loved ones a little more!
Again, I loved this book, yes it was jarring at times but beautifully and thoughtfully written from Kate’s point of view which is incredibly important!
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.
July 4, 2026
Broken is book 1 in The Shattered Heart series. I suggest you read the trigger warnings before getting into this one.
Kate and Jax have been together for 8 years and are trying for a baby. But you can tell right away that Jax isn't really in the relationship based on the way he treats Kate. Kate is in it all the way though and is going through all the motions and doing all the things she needs to, to give him the family that he wants. Through it all, Jax isn't supportive. He's down right rude and disrespectful. I despise Jax and through the whole story, I could not understand why she was still with him. She had a supportive family. Her step father Bill is an amazing guy who had her back, so why did she stay and deal with it for so long??
But when the last straw comes knocking on her door and she does finally decide to call it quits, Jax refuses to let her go. He begins to stalk her and harass her, abuse her and her chances of getting away seem bleak.
This story is quite an emotional roller coaster. And through the entire thing, I was in fear for her dogs life. I am so glad the story didn't go in that direction... but I was terrified that it was going to come. This story is a quick, easy read though it does touch on a difficult topic. I did enjoy this story though. The story kept me reading!
Kate and Jax have been together for 8 years and are trying for a baby. But you can tell right away that Jax isn't really in the relationship based on the way he treats Kate. Kate is in it all the way though and is going through all the motions and doing all the things she needs to, to give him the family that he wants. Through it all, Jax isn't supportive. He's down right rude and disrespectful. I despise Jax and through the whole story, I could not understand why she was still with him. She had a supportive family. Her step father Bill is an amazing guy who had her back, so why did she stay and deal with it for so long??
But when the last straw comes knocking on her door and she does finally decide to call it quits, Jax refuses to let her go. He begins to stalk her and harass her, abuse her and her chances of getting away seem bleak.
This story is quite an emotional roller coaster. And through the entire thing, I was in fear for her dogs life. I am so glad the story didn't go in that direction... but I was terrified that it was going to come. This story is a quick, easy read though it does touch on a difficult topic. I did enjoy this story though. The story kept me reading!
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