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Sand & Fog #1
Broken Crown
Broken Crown is the first of three Stand-Alone books in the Sand & Fog series. The new sequel to the Amazon Top # 100 Bestselling The Girl on the Half Shell, Half Shell Series. This book has a HEA.
To achieve iconic fame and extraordinary wealth, legendary rocker Alan Manzone was willing to make sacrifices along the way. But his greatest regret is losing the love of his life, Chrissie Parker. There is no other woman on this earth for him. But wanting her, getting her, and keeping her aren’t things Alan has ever been able to do well. Again and again, he loses her.
Now alone, bitter, and filled with regret, he examines his life with Chrissie. Every moment of love. Every glorious moment of passion. Every torturous moment of parting. Finding happiness with a Parker is not an easily achievable thing, but he is desperate to have the future he's always struggled for and wanted with Chrissie.
Now that the timing is perfect for them both, can Alan finally claim the only woman he has ever truly loved, or has the past made her lost to him forever? Can his unrelenting love for her survive the web of secrets that have at last been revealed? Is love enough for him to find forgiveness and happiness with Chrissie?
To achieve iconic fame and extraordinary wealth, legendary rocker Alan Manzone was willing to make sacrifices along the way. But his greatest regret is losing the love of his life, Chrissie Parker. There is no other woman on this earth for him. But wanting her, getting her, and keeping her aren’t things Alan has ever been able to do well. Again and again, he loses her.
Now alone, bitter, and filled with regret, he examines his life with Chrissie. Every moment of love. Every glorious moment of passion. Every torturous moment of parting. Finding happiness with a Parker is not an easily achievable thing, but he is desperate to have the future he's always struggled for and wanted with Chrissie.
Now that the timing is perfect for them both, can Alan finally claim the only woman he has ever truly loved, or has the past made her lost to him forever? Can his unrelenting love for her survive the web of secrets that have at last been revealed? Is love enough for him to find forgiveness and happiness with Chrissie?
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2015
601 people are currently reading
997 people want to read
About the author
Susan Ward
44 books491 followersAward-Winning author Susan Ward is a #1 bestselling author of Rock Star Romance and New Adult Fiction. Known for complex, gritty, and unpredictable emotional reads, to the delight of her readers she is always expanding her fictional universe.
She likes her romance books to be packed with exciting heroes who keep you guessing, and intelligent, complicated heroines who make them work to get them. Her stories are filled with twists you won't see coming, both laughter and tears, and her Happy Endings are never cookie-cutter, but always deliciously satisfying.
She lives in California with her husband and dog Lady. Her favorite things to do are writing an angsty HEA love story, drinking coffee, eating chocolate, having a good glass of wine, traveling, binge watching TV series once the episodes are fully released, and chatting with her readers.
For future releases, upcoming book signings, or to contact: Http://www.susanwardbooks.com
Or follow on Twitter @susaninlaguna
Or Like on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanwardboo...
Want to know the reading order of her books: www.susanwardbooks.com/parker-series1...
She likes her romance books to be packed with exciting heroes who keep you guessing, and intelligent, complicated heroines who make them work to get them. Her stories are filled with twists you won't see coming, both laughter and tears, and her Happy Endings are never cookie-cutter, but always deliciously satisfying.
She lives in California with her husband and dog Lady. Her favorite things to do are writing an angsty HEA love story, drinking coffee, eating chocolate, having a good glass of wine, traveling, binge watching TV series once the episodes are fully released, and chatting with her readers.
For future releases, upcoming book signings, or to contact: Http://www.susanwardbooks.com
Or follow on Twitter @susaninlaguna
Or Like on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanwardboo...
Want to know the reading order of her books: www.susanwardbooks.com/parker-series1...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 21, 2023
**** 4.5 stars ****
NOT A STANDALONE.
The closure I needed. It should have been included in The Girl Box Set.
This is a quote that pretty much summarizes this series:
NOT A STANDALONE.
The closure I needed. It should have been included in The Girl Box Set.
This is a quote that pretty much summarizes this series:
September 2, 2015
"What's gotten into you? Tell me what I did to cause this, love. I'll do it every day. When I touch you and you feel like this, it makes me out of my mind for you." ~Alan Manzone
Broken Crown, the first in the Sand & Fog series, picks up where Ward's Half Shell left us...thinking Chrissie and our beloved Alan were finally getting their HEA.
Although in typical Ward fashion, she doesn't allow us to get there so easily. Except this time, we get to hear/see/taste/experience the epic love affair of these two from Alan's POV. While the journey may be painful, tragic, and angst-ridden, it is also beautiful and sublime.
I've never hidden my fascination for Alan Manzone - he is one of my all time favorite Heroes. An all-man, alpha, rockstar with little to no conscience, we come to see a different side of him in Crown. WARD as a MALE POV is sensational. I wanted to float in Alan's headspace for 500 more pages. His thoughts, actions, statements, and feelings were so intense, yet so gentle. The way he made love to Chrissie, his eventual smack with reality heartbreaking and lovely, and the ending --- Lord help me.
THIS is an all time favorite of mine. 5+ stars.
AND -- the series now continues with Kaley Stanton (no spoilers here) --- BUT I Want it yesterday.
Broken Crown, the first in the Sand & Fog series, picks up where Ward's Half Shell left us...thinking Chrissie and our beloved Alan were finally getting their HEA.
Although in typical Ward fashion, she doesn't allow us to get there so easily. Except this time, we get to hear/see/taste/experience the epic love affair of these two from Alan's POV. While the journey may be painful, tragic, and angst-ridden, it is also beautiful and sublime.
I've never hidden my fascination for Alan Manzone - he is one of my all time favorite Heroes. An all-man, alpha, rockstar with little to no conscience, we come to see a different side of him in Crown. WARD as a MALE POV is sensational. I wanted to float in Alan's headspace for 500 more pages. His thoughts, actions, statements, and feelings were so intense, yet so gentle. The way he made love to Chrissie, his eventual smack with reality heartbreaking and lovely, and the ending --- Lord help me.
THIS is an all time favorite of mine. 5+ stars.
AND -- the series now continues with Kaley Stanton (no spoilers here) --- BUT I Want it yesterday.
September 1, 2015
Broken Crown exceeded my expectations!
I never really put much thought into what it meant to have a book coming out that was in one of my favorite characters points of view. To finally know what's running through his head after four books in Chrissie's. I wouldn't have expected him to be so funny. To hear his inner monologue teeming with emotion, devotion and passion. Not that I didn't anticipate those things from Alan, I just wasn't prepared for Susan to knock it out of the park so phenomenally. Cheers to you Susan for making Alan even more endearing and for giving his and Chrissie's journey a fantastic conclusion.
But first, let's start at the beginning. The year is 2013. It's been many years since the plot ending for The Girl in the Comfortable Quiet. But don't fret! The format at the beginning of Broken Crown jumps back to key moments in a very fluid manner. It was highly enjoyable and well written.
There are many shocking events that take place in this book. And just when you think there's smooth sailing, just remember who wrote it, that it makes the payout even sweeter.
For as much angst and heart break Chrissie and Alan have endured, they arrive to the place they are meant to be and at a perfect moment in time. Everything they have been through, every harsh word said, every door that was closed, has lead them to this moment. It has molded them into who they are today. Someone who knows what they want and are not willing to risk losing that again. I am in love with this book. It's as simple as that.
Broken Crown has some of my favorite characters making an appearance. Jack has been in Alan's life a long time and it was great to finally read about his connection throughout the years. Linda is loyal and a tough cookie as always. But what I'm really all mushy and excited about?! The new cast we are introduced to! I look forward to reading more about Kaley in The Girl of Sand and Fog. You can bet I'm counting down the days for that release. ;)
One last observation. How gorgeous is this cover and the cover model?! *sigh*
I never really put much thought into what it meant to have a book coming out that was in one of my favorite characters points of view. To finally know what's running through his head after four books in Chrissie's. I wouldn't have expected him to be so funny. To hear his inner monologue teeming with emotion, devotion and passion. Not that I didn't anticipate those things from Alan, I just wasn't prepared for Susan to knock it out of the park so phenomenally. Cheers to you Susan for making Alan even more endearing and for giving his and Chrissie's journey a fantastic conclusion.
But first, let's start at the beginning. The year is 2013. It's been many years since the plot ending for The Girl in the Comfortable Quiet. But don't fret! The format at the beginning of Broken Crown jumps back to key moments in a very fluid manner. It was highly enjoyable and well written.
There are many shocking events that take place in this book. And just when you think there's smooth sailing, just remember who wrote it, that it makes the payout even sweeter.
For as much angst and heart break Chrissie and Alan have endured, they arrive to the place they are meant to be and at a perfect moment in time. Everything they have been through, every harsh word said, every door that was closed, has lead them to this moment. It has molded them into who they are today. Someone who knows what they want and are not willing to risk losing that again. I am in love with this book. It's as simple as that.
Broken Crown has some of my favorite characters making an appearance. Jack has been in Alan's life a long time and it was great to finally read about his connection throughout the years. Linda is loyal and a tough cookie as always. But what I'm really all mushy and excited about?! The new cast we are introduced to! I look forward to reading more about Kaley in The Girl of Sand and Fog. You can bet I'm counting down the days for that release. ;)
One last observation. How gorgeous is this cover and the cover model?! *sigh*
March 8, 2016
That moment when you finish a book and are so amazed that it's on your mind for days afterwards...
Susan Ward never disappoints. This book is a must read, loaded with steamy, heart-wrenching romance, angst, and stunning revelations. It was the perfect introduction to Kaley's story while wrapping up Chrissie and Manny's epic love story.
This book could easily be read as a standalone, but why would you do that? You would be denying yourself the AWESOMENESS that is the Half Shell series.
My only problem with this book is that it ended, but I'm moving on to the next in this series because I know it will be worth every second.
Susan Ward never disappoints. This book is a must read, loaded with steamy, heart-wrenching romance, angst, and stunning revelations. It was the perfect introduction to Kaley's story while wrapping up Chrissie and Manny's epic love story.
This book could easily be read as a standalone, but why would you do that? You would be denying yourself the AWESOMENESS that is the Half Shell series.
My only problem with this book is that it ended, but I'm moving on to the next in this series because I know it will be worth every second.
December 23, 2016
==>Re-read December 23, 2016
==>Read from November 11 to 12, 2015
-----------------------
==>Read from November 11 to 12, 2015
-----------------------
September 2, 2015
Holy Hell Batman! My head is exploding from my mind being totally blown by Broken Crown. Susan Ward is a Queen of angst, and I LOVED every gut-wrenching moment.
Alan Manzone made sacrifices on his quest for fame, with his biggest regret in losing the love of his life, Chrissie Parker. There's no one else on the planet for him, and he's done the legwork. Keeping her has been the thing that he's continually failed at. Now he's older, bitter, and filled with so much regret, that he's self destructing. As the timing is finally perfect for them, will Alan be able to claim the only woman he's ever loved? Or will the secrets finally revealed end it all for good?!
This book was AMAZING! Susan Ward's fantastic talent at writing throat punching angst, tore my heart out. Then she proceeded to stomp on it before she shoved it back in. The character development was perfect, and the great story line flowed effortlessly. Nothing could make me put this book down, until I knew how it all ended, including eating. What makes it so mind blowing, other than the brilliant story line, is it's written in Alan's POV. I always take the females side no matter what until now, as I got to experience all of Alan's inner workings, and after feeling all of his emotions, I found myself empathizing with him. It just wasn't so black and white anymore. CANNOT WAIT for Kaley's story, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY and wait for it.....HIGHLY RECOMMEND Broken Crown!
Alan Manzone made sacrifices on his quest for fame, with his biggest regret in losing the love of his life, Chrissie Parker. There's no one else on the planet for him, and he's done the legwork. Keeping her has been the thing that he's continually failed at. Now he's older, bitter, and filled with so much regret, that he's self destructing. As the timing is finally perfect for them, will Alan be able to claim the only woman he's ever loved? Or will the secrets finally revealed end it all for good?!
This book was AMAZING! Susan Ward's fantastic talent at writing throat punching angst, tore my heart out. Then she proceeded to stomp on it before she shoved it back in. The character development was perfect, and the great story line flowed effortlessly. Nothing could make me put this book down, until I knew how it all ended, including eating. What makes it so mind blowing, other than the brilliant story line, is it's written in Alan's POV. I always take the females side no matter what until now, as I got to experience all of Alan's inner workings, and after feeling all of his emotions, I found myself empathizing with him. It just wasn't so black and white anymore. CANNOT WAIT for Kaley's story, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY and wait for it.....HIGHLY RECOMMEND Broken Crown!
June 9, 2021
This book ("Broken Without Her" on Amazon) is really the fifth book of the Parker Series that starts in "Lost in Him". This book is told from Alan's perspective while the Parker Series books are told from Chrissie's, but this has an epilogue from Chrissie, and this is the HEA conclusion to their story.
All told, the series spans 25 years of their lives, and there are some bombshells dropped within the first pages here after a gap of ~10 years from where book 4 ends. (I honestly lost track of exactly how much time passed within and between each book.) This book takes place when Chrissie is in her early forties, Alan is in his late forties, and there are some flashbacks toward the beginning of the book that show crucial moments in their lives from Alan's perspective.
This book humanized Alan for me. Throughout the series, there are so many moments where he seems cruel and unthinking, but we learn his motivation for those moments and he becomes much more sympathetic (though he's still pretty spectacularly messed up and far from perfect).
This book brought together my suspicions and delivered on my predictions for the characters after a zillion pages and a zillion hours of living with them, so I can finally sleep!
Also, the writing--especially in the epilogue--is glorious. I can't quote it, because I don't want to spoil anything, so I guess you'll just have to go binge on the whole series.
All told, the series spans 25 years of their lives, and there are some bombshells dropped within the first pages here after a gap of ~10 years from where book 4 ends. (I honestly lost track of exactly how much time passed within and between each book.) This book takes place when Chrissie is in her early forties, Alan is in his late forties, and there are some flashbacks toward the beginning of the book that show crucial moments in their lives from Alan's perspective.
This book humanized Alan for me. Throughout the series, there are so many moments where he seems cruel and unthinking, but we learn his motivation for those moments and he becomes much more sympathetic (though he's still pretty spectacularly messed up and far from perfect).
This book brought together my suspicions and delivered on my predictions for the characters after a zillion pages and a zillion hours of living with them, so I can finally sleep!
Also, the writing--especially in the epilogue--is glorious. I can't quote it, because I don't want to spoil anything, so I guess you'll just have to go binge on the whole series.
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July 4, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (7/4/2018)!💝
Blurb:
To achieve iconic fame and extraordinary wealth, legendary rocker Alan Manzone was willing to make sacrifices along the way. But his greatest regret is losing the love of his life, Chrissie Parker. There is no other woman on this earth for him. But wanting her, getting her, and keeping her aren’t things Alan has ever been able to do well. Again and again, he loses her.
Now alone, bitter, and filled with regret, he examines his life with Chrissie. Every moment of love. Every glorious moment of passion. Every torturous moment of parting. Finding happiness with a Parker is not an easily achievable thing, but he is desperate to have the future he's always struggled for and wanted with Chrissie.
Now that the timing is perfect for them both, can Alan finally claim the only woman he has ever truly loved, or has the past made her lost to him forever? Can his unrelenting love for her survive the web of secrets that have at last been revealed? Is love enough for him to find forgiveness and happiness with Chrissie?
Blurb:
To achieve iconic fame and extraordinary wealth, legendary rocker Alan Manzone was willing to make sacrifices along the way. But his greatest regret is losing the love of his life, Chrissie Parker. There is no other woman on this earth for him. But wanting her, getting her, and keeping her aren’t things Alan has ever been able to do well. Again and again, he loses her.
Now alone, bitter, and filled with regret, he examines his life with Chrissie. Every moment of love. Every glorious moment of passion. Every torturous moment of parting. Finding happiness with a Parker is not an easily achievable thing, but he is desperate to have the future he's always struggled for and wanted with Chrissie.
Now that the timing is perfect for them both, can Alan finally claim the only woman he has ever truly loved, or has the past made her lost to him forever? Can his unrelenting love for her survive the web of secrets that have at last been revealed? Is love enough for him to find forgiveness and happiness with Chrissie?
September 12, 2015
Broken Crown exceeded my expectations. This book.is amazing!
I never really put much thought into what it meant to have a book coming out that was in one of my favorite characters points of view. To finally know what's running through his head after four books in Chrissie's. I wouldn't have expected him to be so funny. To hear his inner monologue teeming with emotion, devotion and passion. Not that I didn't anticipate those things from Alan, I just wasn't prepared for Susan to knock it out of the park so phenomenally. Cheers to you Susan for making Alan even more endearing and for giving his and Chrissie's journey a fantastic conclusion.
But first, let's start at the beginning. The year is 2013. It's been many years since the plot ending for The Girl in the Comfortable Quiet. But don't fret! The format at the beginning of Broken Crown jumps back to key moments in a very fluid manner. It was highly enjoyable and well written.
There are many shocking events that take place in this book. And just when you think there's smooth sailing, just remember who wrote it, that it makes the payout even sweeter.
For as much angst and heart break Chrissie and Alan have endured, they arrive to the place they are meant to be and at a perfect moment in time. Everything they have been through, every harsh word said, every door that was closed, has lead them to this moment. It has molded them into who they are today. Someone who knows what they want and are not willing to risk losing that again. I am in love with this book. It's as simple as that.
Broken Crown has some of my favorite characters making an appearance. Jack has been in Alan's life a long time and it was great to finally read about his connection throughout the years. Linda is loyal and a tough cookie as always. But what I'm really all mushy and excited about?! The new cast we are introduced to! I look forward to reading more about Kaley in The Girl of Sand and Fog. You can bet I'm counting down the days for that release. ;)
One last observation. How gorgeous is this cover and the cover model?! *sigh*
I never really put much thought into what it meant to have a book coming out that was in one of my favorite characters points of view. To finally know what's running through his head after four books in Chrissie's. I wouldn't have expected him to be so funny. To hear his inner monologue teeming with emotion, devotion and passion. Not that I didn't anticipate those things from Alan, I just wasn't prepared for Susan to knock it out of the park so phenomenally. Cheers to you Susan for making Alan even more endearing and for giving his and Chrissie's journey a fantastic conclusion.
But first, let's start at the beginning. The year is 2013. It's been many years since the plot ending for The Girl in the Comfortable Quiet. But don't fret! The format at the beginning of Broken Crown jumps back to key moments in a very fluid manner. It was highly enjoyable and well written.
There are many shocking events that take place in this book. And just when you think there's smooth sailing, just remember who wrote it, that it makes the payout even sweeter.
For as much angst and heart break Chrissie and Alan have endured, they arrive to the place they are meant to be and at a perfect moment in time. Everything they have been through, every harsh word said, every door that was closed, has lead them to this moment. It has molded them into who they are today. Someone who knows what they want and are not willing to risk losing that again. I am in love with this book. It's as simple as that.
Broken Crown has some of my favorite characters making an appearance. Jack has been in Alan's life a long time and it was great to finally read about his connection throughout the years. Linda is loyal and a tough cookie as always. But what I'm really all mushy and excited about?! The new cast we are introduced to! I look forward to reading more about Kaley in The Girl of Sand and Fog. You can bet I'm counting down the days for that release. ;)
One last observation. How gorgeous is this cover and the cover model?! *sigh*
September 7, 2015
My thoughts drift back through my life: to the painful parts, to the parts I did badly, to the parts where I loved and to the parts where I lost. There is finally calm in me for all that she's done-and all that I've done.
~Alan
A book that packs a powerful punch. The beginning of the book left me feeling like I had been sucker punched in the stomach. With so many things I wasn't prepared for.
Alan and Chrissie have been through everything together. They are like two magnets. When they get near each other. They can't help but to gravitate towards each other. But there love is disastrous at times. I felt like screaming at Alan and saying "Open your eyes! The truth is right in front of you." But Alan is Alan and had to do things the hard way.
This book was a roller coaster of emotions.
But it wouldn't be a Susan Ward book if it didn't make you laugh, cry and want to throw things.
This was Susan's first shot at writing a male's POV and she blew me away. I could stay lost in Alan's head forever. His story was so incredibly heartbreaking at times and at the end so incredibly beautiful. Wait what? Did I say a Susan Ward book had a beautiful ending? Susan Ward who are you and what have you done to the old Susan? The Susan that enjoys torturing me? Just kidding Susan I am so proud of you!
Susan Ward is so incredibly talented. Please give this book a shot. If you love a book packed with emotions...you will love this book.
I can not wait for Kaley's book!
~Alan
A book that packs a powerful punch. The beginning of the book left me feeling like I had been sucker punched in the stomach. With so many things I wasn't prepared for.
Alan and Chrissie have been through everything together. They are like two magnets. When they get near each other. They can't help but to gravitate towards each other. But there love is disastrous at times. I felt like screaming at Alan and saying "Open your eyes! The truth is right in front of you." But Alan is Alan and had to do things the hard way.
This book was a roller coaster of emotions.
But it wouldn't be a Susan Ward book if it didn't make you laugh, cry and want to throw things.
This was Susan's first shot at writing a male's POV and she blew me away. I could stay lost in Alan's head forever. His story was so incredibly heartbreaking at times and at the end so incredibly beautiful. Wait what? Did I say a Susan Ward book had a beautiful ending? Susan Ward who are you and what have you done to the old Susan? The Susan that enjoys torturing me? Just kidding Susan I am so proud of you!
Susan Ward is so incredibly talented. Please give this book a shot. If you love a book packed with emotions...you will love this book.
I can not wait for Kaley's book!
September 13, 2015
I'm so damn invested in Alan Manzone and Chrissy Parker that they feel like family! And like family, there are times I love them, times I could throttle them, and times where all I can do is smile because at the end of the day, there will always be love between those two. Epic love. The kind of love that is pleasure and pain; white light and dark shadows; confusion and understanding; sins and redemption.
In this book - which is my favorite to date, Ward treats us to the male POV which she does exquisitely. After finishing this book, and trust me, I didn't want it to end because I could spend forever seeing the world through Alan Manzone's eyes, I finally understood the fabric of Chrissy's fragile and complicated psyche--all of the things that made her the way she is come full circle. I couldn't be mad, though I wanted to be! No spoilers but trust me when I say there WILL come a point or three where you wish you had the ability to reach through your Kindle and bitch slap a girl. But hang in there because it works out so perfectly and your anger will dissipate to empathy and then total understanding ad forgiveness.
I want more Susan! I'm hooked! Love the male POV, absolutely adore the light humor and introspection you've given us with Alan. Want to see more of their story as the kids grow up!
In this book - which is my favorite to date, Ward treats us to the male POV which she does exquisitely. After finishing this book, and trust me, I didn't want it to end because I could spend forever seeing the world through Alan Manzone's eyes, I finally understood the fabric of Chrissy's fragile and complicated psyche--all of the things that made her the way she is come full circle. I couldn't be mad, though I wanted to be! No spoilers but trust me when I say there WILL come a point or three where you wish you had the ability to reach through your Kindle and bitch slap a girl. But hang in there because it works out so perfectly and your anger will dissipate to empathy and then total understanding ad forgiveness.
I want more Susan! I'm hooked! Love the male POV, absolutely adore the light humor and introspection you've given us with Alan. Want to see more of their story as the kids grow up!
April 4, 2016
I loved this book. It is a continuation of the Half Shell series written from Alan's POV. It is said that it can be read as a stand-alone but why miss out on the juicy goodness of the other books? Anyway, Alan is done with shallow relationships while the love of his life marries other men. She is single after the death of her husband and he intends to get his girl and keep her finally. He arrives on Chrissie's doorstep to find she has a bombshell of her own to drop on him. When the hits keep coming they struggle to find their way back to each other.
There is something so compelling about these flawed and beautiful characters and the love they share. Like the rest of the series there is no shortage of drama in this book. I love the way the characters have developed. How all the damage is sloughed off and just the love remains. They know who they are and what they want and they are finally in a place where they can be that together.
There is something so compelling about these flawed and beautiful characters and the love they share. Like the rest of the series there is no shortage of drama in this book. I love the way the characters have developed. How all the damage is sloughed off and just the love remains. They know who they are and what they want and they are finally in a place where they can be that together.
August 30, 2015
This is my favourite Susan Ward book so far. There is something very compelling about British rocker Alan Manzone, and this book, written from his POV, gives us a lot of insight into his life since the end of the Half-Shell series. Things have always been up and down between him and Chrissie Parker, and we start this story in 2013 with some surprises as Alan works with his biographer. Alan is always amusing and sexy, but here we also get to see his vulnerable side, too, and I just fell in love with him more. I highly recommend this book - and can we all just take a minute to appreciate that cover? *sigh* I can't wait to read Kaley's story next.
September 3, 2015
just when i think there is no way another book about Chrissy and Alan can be written, Susan Ward publishes another home run. This book is in Alan's POV and it is phenominal! I devoured this book, the one time i had to put it down, i sure did not want to! I cannot wait to read what Susan has in store for my favorite two characters next
August 7, 2016
Remarkable!!!!
There is just so much emotion in this book!!! Pain from the moment in begins to end!!! Happiness in sporadic moments ! Humor and above all else is love!!!! These two characters Alan and Chrissie really show you what the ultimate tests of love can put you through!!!! I recommend this book highly!!!
There is just so much emotion in this book!!! Pain from the moment in begins to end!!! Happiness in sporadic moments ! Humor and above all else is love!!!! These two characters Alan and Chrissie really show you what the ultimate tests of love can put you through!!!! I recommend this book highly!!!
February 14, 2016
This series, as well as The Half Shell series were free on Kindle Unlimited. I devoured them & then bought them at their retail price, because I wanted to pay the author for my enjoyment. Fantastic series of books & I can't wait to read more.
September 2, 2015
This is great!!!! I need more!!
August 15, 2017
Not what I expected
This beautifully written story was a surprise. Quite. Often, books in this genre are all about the sex and the story suffers. This book had everything!
This beautifully written story was a surprise. Quite. Often, books in this genre are all about the sex and the story suffers. This book had everything!
September 25, 2015
I bought all of Susan Ward's books because I was totally addicted to Alan and Chrissie's story. I was hoping for a book that ties up their story. This is it! If you have read up to this point, you will remember the constant take and give in the whole series between Alan and Chrissie. They get together, they break up, they get together, they break up without anything really being resolved. Mostly on Alan's end.
This book will finally reveal all of the answers to the questions you probably have been asking like I was. And better yet, you read it from Alan's point of view. You finally get to understand the man better and my god, you will fall deeper in love with this man. You finally understand how wounded and scared he is.
The book hits a major point when Chrissie blows Alan away with a major shocking secret that was broken wide open in a way she did not expect it to be revealed. In a way it also brought healing to him which he did not realize that he needed. How easy it was breaking down his walls and make him complete again. But he did struggle a bit with the betrayal and the secrets that Chrissie hid. It made you understand that Chrissie had her own flaws and her own faults. But should this be the final straw for Alan? Whew. It is a major hurdle even when you understand why she did it.
When he asked her why she did not tell him earlier and she said that she was simply waiting for the right time, that she was saving them for him. God, that just broke my heart in a good and bad way. That made so much sense. It's true in a sad way. Just ugh, what a great little scene.
You also finally get to read about Kaley, the oldest child, and the struggles she was having with Alan. You do read about her in "Rewind." Be warned though, "Rewind" is a small jump in the future and deals with Kaley's own love story. Broken Crown is set in time behind "Rewind."
My only question that I was left with after reading this book is... All of them? HOW? Did Chrissie time it right or was she lucky? If you read the book, you'll get what I mean.
This book will finally reveal all of the answers to the questions you probably have been asking like I was. And better yet, you read it from Alan's point of view. You finally get to understand the man better and my god, you will fall deeper in love with this man. You finally understand how wounded and scared he is.
The book hits a major point when Chrissie blows Alan away with a major shocking secret that was broken wide open in a way she did not expect it to be revealed. In a way it also brought healing to him which he did not realize that he needed. How easy it was breaking down his walls and make him complete again. But he did struggle a bit with the betrayal and the secrets that Chrissie hid. It made you understand that Chrissie had her own flaws and her own faults. But should this be the final straw for Alan? Whew. It is a major hurdle even when you understand why she did it.
When he asked her why she did not tell him earlier and she said that she was simply waiting for the right time, that she was saving them for him. God, that just broke my heart in a good and bad way. That made so much sense. It's true in a sad way. Just ugh, what a great little scene.
You also finally get to read about Kaley, the oldest child, and the struggles she was having with Alan. You do read about her in "Rewind." Be warned though, "Rewind" is a small jump in the future and deals with Kaley's own love story. Broken Crown is set in time behind "Rewind."
My only question that I was left with after reading this book is... All of them? HOW? Did Chrissie time it right or was she lucky? If you read the book, you'll get what I mean.
September 13, 2015
First, lets take a few minutes to appreciate that absolutely-freaking-stunning-sexy cover...
damn, I am drooling and hot here...
Ok, moving on...Well, even do they are different series, this is my favorite book in the half shelf/sand-fog deal. In the first books, I had issues with Alan. I confess, I wanted to smack the living daylights out of him more than a few times, but then I get his POV and now I am actually considering begging for his forgiveness on bended knee for all the explicit remarks I yelled at him as I read the first books.Talk about one hell of a bad boy who needs to be rescue ASAP...
On the other hand, this book only made me certain that Chrissy and I could never be best friends; I mean, I'll take her out to lunch, probably try to smack some sense into her, but she is that type of friend that just keeps making bad decisions over and over again and makes you want to cry your eyes out for her...
I am so grateful that the author didn't just repeat the same story "in another head", here we actually learned so many knew things about Alan, so many where what and Oh that's why... I loved that she covered a very long period of time in their lives, over 20 years more or less and by doing that gave me the oportunity to view Alan evolve, mature and settle down in life. At the end that was very important to me...what can I say? I am a sucker for HEA endings....
As for the other character I am still shocked about Neal and Jesse and not at all surprise about Chrissy's children...
Alan Mazone consider me your devoted gruppie from now on......
damn, I am drooling and hot here...
Ok, moving on...Well, even do they are different series, this is my favorite book in the half shelf/sand-fog deal. In the first books, I had issues with Alan. I confess, I wanted to smack the living daylights out of him more than a few times, but then I get his POV and now I am actually considering begging for his forgiveness on bended knee for all the explicit remarks I yelled at him as I read the first books.Talk about one hell of a bad boy who needs to be rescue ASAP...
On the other hand, this book only made me certain that Chrissy and I could never be best friends; I mean, I'll take her out to lunch, probably try to smack some sense into her, but she is that type of friend that just keeps making bad decisions over and over again and makes you want to cry your eyes out for her...
I am so grateful that the author didn't just repeat the same story "in another head", here we actually learned so many knew things about Alan, so many where what and Oh that's why... I loved that she covered a very long period of time in their lives, over 20 years more or less and by doing that gave me the oportunity to view Alan evolve, mature and settle down in life. At the end that was very important to me...what can I say? I am a sucker for HEA endings....
As for the other character I am still shocked about Neal and Jesse and not at all surprise about Chrissy's children...
Alan Mazone consider me your devoted gruppie from now on......
December 27, 2015
Broken Crown picks up where Girl in half shell ends. We think Alan and Chrissie finally get there happily ever after but that would be to easy.
Alan is full of regret about losing Chrissie again. He tries to make sense of how it went wrong and he knows that she is and always will be the love of his life. When he feels like his life is spiraling out of control, he decides he must see Chrissie because she makes him feel at peace with himself.
This time we get to see it from Alan's point of view. I often wondered how he felt about all that happened between him and Chrissie. I am so glad to finally see how he felt and what he went through. The story is just as emotional messy from his view point. I absolutely love this version as well.
I look forward to reading more books from the sand and fog series.
Alan is full of regret about losing Chrissie again. He tries to make sense of how it went wrong and he knows that she is and always will be the love of his life. When he feels like his life is spiraling out of control, he decides he must see Chrissie because she makes him feel at peace with himself.
This time we get to see it from Alan's point of view. I often wondered how he felt about all that happened between him and Chrissie. I am so glad to finally see how he felt and what he went through. The story is just as emotional messy from his view point. I absolutely love this version as well.
I look forward to reading more books from the sand and fog series.
May 7, 2018
Crown
This Book deserves a 5🌟 rating! One of the most touching Stories I have ever Read. Warm, intense, takes you into the very Kind of a Man named Alan. What a delightful Read, cannot imagine waking up to the fact you have 5 Children!
Susan Ward, you have a wonderful way with Words. I highly recommend this as a must Read. It is a experience.
This Book deserves a 5🌟 rating! One of the most touching Stories I have ever Read. Warm, intense, takes you into the very Kind of a Man named Alan. What a delightful Read, cannot imagine waking up to the fact you have 5 Children!
Susan Ward, you have a wonderful way with Words. I highly recommend this as a must Read. It is a experience.
December 27, 2016
Figuring things out
I am a sucker for stories where the main characters are tortured souls trying to figure life out. That's what you'll find in this story. Will it end happy or tortured? You'll have to read the book to find out. Susan Ward did a great job taking me on a tour through the lives of her "broken" characters. HAPPY READING EVERYONE!!
I am a sucker for stories where the main characters are tortured souls trying to figure life out. That's what you'll find in this story. Will it end happy or tortured? You'll have to read the book to find out. Susan Ward did a great job taking me on a tour through the lives of her "broken" characters. HAPPY READING EVERYONE!!
June 8, 2016
I really liked this one. I had not really liked Alan until this book. Seeing things from his side opened him up more...
August 22, 2016
No, no, no. Instant dislike for the characters. So self destructive and weak. Couldn't get past the 3rd chapter.
February 5, 2017
I loved this story! I can't image what a love that can survive years and marriages to other people and deceit and miles must be like! Alan and Chrissie's story was beautiful!
February 3, 2017
Me reading this book:
"Yes!"
"Whoa!
"Perfection."
"Yes!"
"Whoa!
"Perfection."
November 8, 2017
While I enjoyed the storyline and the characters, I found myself at times wanting to skim over some of it because it felt like filler to me. I would read for a while and come back to it hoping something would grab my interest. It was always the same thing with Alan and Chrissie, love, mess up and then someone would leave and this went one for many many years. Is that how some people really live their lives? Maybe it's just rockers. I want to read more in this series and I hope it gets better.
This is a first for me from this author and I look forward to seeing what she has in store next to come for this series.
This is a first for me from this author and I look forward to seeing what she has in store next to come for this series.
January 7, 2020
I wanted to love it
I found the beginning hard to follow. I'm not a fan of the jumping to the past and back. It was hard to get invested because frankly I didn't like either of the main characters. Both selfish and toxic human beings. Although I liked them better towards the end I still thought it would be better if they just stayed away from each other. Not what I look for in a "romance". I'm an aggressive reader and I've never wanted a "romance" to fail before! It's not good when you keep hoping things improve and by the end just feel the main characters should totally go into counseling and avoid each other! I'll try another book in the series.
I found the beginning hard to follow. I'm not a fan of the jumping to the past and back. It was hard to get invested because frankly I didn't like either of the main characters. Both selfish and toxic human beings. Although I liked them better towards the end I still thought it would be better if they just stayed away from each other. Not what I look for in a "romance". I'm an aggressive reader and I've never wanted a "romance" to fail before! It's not good when you keep hoping things improve and by the end just feel the main characters should totally go into counseling and avoid each other! I'll try another book in the series.
February 6, 2020
Satisfying ending to previous 4 book series!
After reading the four books that precedes this one (even though this one is in a different series—why?!), this one fills in many of the blanks and serves as a much more satisfying ending(s) to Chrissie’s and Alan’s stories. There are some things that seem a little too random or too convenient to be believed that add complications/conflicts to the story so feel gratuitous. Emotion is very well written—and adds a great deal to the story.
After reading the four books that precedes this one (even though this one is in a different series—why?!), this one fills in many of the blanks and serves as a much more satisfying ending(s) to Chrissie’s and Alan’s stories. There are some things that seem a little too random or too convenient to be believed that add complications/conflicts to the story so feel gratuitous. Emotion is very well written—and adds a great deal to the story.
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