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Damaged
Are DAMAGED souls broken souls?
All Maddi Brooks has ever wanted is to move on and away from her past, forgetting about the childhood memories that haunt her. Preferring solitude over the hustle and bustle of single, city life, Maddi's introverted lifestyle suits her well. But when fate steps in and she comes face-to-face with Noah Evans, her neighbor's laid-back and charming brother, Maddi's world gets turned upside down. Shocked by the pull she feels for him, she tries to fight her desire for her sexy new friend.
Noah Evans’ top priority is taking care of his sister, Natalie, and helping her rebuild her life. However, unable to resist Natalie's dark-eyed neighbor, Noah vows to find a way to break down the walls Maddi has built around her heart. He falls hard, but convincing Maddi that he wants a future with her is going to be more difficult than he realized. When Maddi’s past resurfaces, and his sister finds herself in danger once again, it’s up to Noah to save them both—one from danger and one from herself. With time running out and danger closing in, can Noah protect them both without breaking his own heart?
Or is the damage already done?
All Maddi Brooks has ever wanted is to move on and away from her past, forgetting about the childhood memories that haunt her. Preferring solitude over the hustle and bustle of single, city life, Maddi's introverted lifestyle suits her well. But when fate steps in and she comes face-to-face with Noah Evans, her neighbor's laid-back and charming brother, Maddi's world gets turned upside down. Shocked by the pull she feels for him, she tries to fight her desire for her sexy new friend.
Noah Evans’ top priority is taking care of his sister, Natalie, and helping her rebuild her life. However, unable to resist Natalie's dark-eyed neighbor, Noah vows to find a way to break down the walls Maddi has built around her heart. He falls hard, but convincing Maddi that he wants a future with her is going to be more difficult than he realized. When Maddi’s past resurfaces, and his sister finds herself in danger once again, it’s up to Noah to save them both—one from danger and one from herself. With time running out and danger closing in, can Noah protect them both without breaking his own heart?
Or is the damage already done?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2016
7 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Jody Holford
45 books650 followersa wife* a mom* a reader and a writer* a friend* a daughter* a teacher* a sister* a blogger and follower* a worrier and word twister* a gemini*
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
February 2, 2016
I just finished reading Damaged last night and I can truthfully say that I loved everything about it. If you're looking for a book that has hot, steamy explicit sex in it, this is not the book for you. A story has to have more than that, it has to have heart, and this one has it in spades.
My new book boyfriend is currently Noah Evans. His quiet determination, his sense of humour, and his deep rooted love, protectiveness and patience with his sister and Maddi endeared him to me.
Then Jody snagged my heart with a secondary character, which I will not go into detail with because I don't want to ruin any part of the story. Let me just say that within a few paragraphs she had me wanting to see this person's story.
I'll say it again, I adored this book and look forward to reading more from this author! ❤️
My new book boyfriend is currently Noah Evans. His quiet determination, his sense of humour, and his deep rooted love, protectiveness and patience with his sister and Maddi endeared him to me.
Then Jody snagged my heart with a secondary character, which I will not go into detail with because I don't want to ruin any part of the story. Let me just say that within a few paragraphs she had me wanting to see this person's story.
I'll say it again, I adored this book and look forward to reading more from this author! ❤️
March 30, 2016
This was my second Jody Holford book and about two-thirds of the way through I realized something—Ms. Holford has a habit of drawing you into the story in such a way that you don't even realize that you're falling in love…
I actually found myself a little frustrated with the pacing of this story sometimes—but without even realizing it, everything eventually just clicked and, when it did, it completely took my breath away. It's supposed to be slow moving. It HAS to be slow moving, or the story doesn't make any sense. And because it's slow moving, once things start coming together, it's so much sweeter and more meaningful, and normal, everyday things within the storyline become breathtaking.
Another thing I realized is that when you pick up a Jody Holford book, you aren’t just getting a romance. I mean, there is a romance—and it’s sweet and breathtaking, and Lord, you guys, I loved the crap out of Noah—but her stories are so much bigger than all the swoons she delivers. Damaged was no exception. There’s a much deeper story here—about surviving and healing and forgiving, and living the fullest life you were meant to live.
It doesn’t shy away from some pretty sensitive topics—my heart broke for Maddi and Nat, and even sometimes for Noah as he tried so hard to protect these women he loved, to absorb much of their pain. It’s heavy—but not too heavy. There are plenty of lighthearted moments; the banter between Noah and Maddi, for example, was fun, flirty, and occasionally had me giggling out loud. Noah is the truest, most steadfast hero imaginable, and Maddi is so strong and brave in ways she doesn’t even understand or recognize. Their story isn’t necessarily an easy one, but it resonated and left a mark on my heart.
In the end, Damaged was heartbreaking, heartwarming, nerve wracking, and emotional. It was also redemptive and rewarding in such a way that while my heart may be a bit bruised from the journey, it’s so happy to have been along for the ride. ~ Shelly, 4 stars
I actually found myself a little frustrated with the pacing of this story sometimes—but without even realizing it, everything eventually just clicked and, when it did, it completely took my breath away. It's supposed to be slow moving. It HAS to be slow moving, or the story doesn't make any sense. And because it's slow moving, once things start coming together, it's so much sweeter and more meaningful, and normal, everyday things within the storyline become breathtaking.
Another thing I realized is that when you pick up a Jody Holford book, you aren’t just getting a romance. I mean, there is a romance—and it’s sweet and breathtaking, and Lord, you guys, I loved the crap out of Noah—but her stories are so much bigger than all the swoons she delivers. Damaged was no exception. There’s a much deeper story here—about surviving and healing and forgiving, and living the fullest life you were meant to live.
It doesn’t shy away from some pretty sensitive topics—my heart broke for Maddi and Nat, and even sometimes for Noah as he tried so hard to protect these women he loved, to absorb much of their pain. It’s heavy—but not too heavy. There are plenty of lighthearted moments; the banter between Noah and Maddi, for example, was fun, flirty, and occasionally had me giggling out loud. Noah is the truest, most steadfast hero imaginable, and Maddi is so strong and brave in ways she doesn’t even understand or recognize. Their story isn’t necessarily an easy one, but it resonated and left a mark on my heart.
In the end, Damaged was heartbreaking, heartwarming, nerve wracking, and emotional. It was also redemptive and rewarding in such a way that while my heart may be a bit bruised from the journey, it’s so happy to have been along for the ride. ~ Shelly, 4 stars
January 20, 2019
I’m a big fan of Jody Holford and this book didn’t disappoint. I loved the character of Maddi, so strong, yet so vulnerable. Her past has shaped who she is, and she has worked very hard to keep her life safe..until the very sweet, sexy and funny Noah knocks on her door to deliver a parcel. Watching them navigate a budding relationship was fun to read, there was also some very tough issues raised but it was handled by Ms Holford brilliantly. A very well written story...with a hero I may have slightly fallen in love with. Really hope Noah’s sister Natalie gets a Happily Ever After
December 15, 2018
The H as as sweet as the h is annoying 😂
February 25, 2016
Sweet romance at its finest. I was excited to receive an Arc of Damaged after reading Falling for Home. Jody has become one of my one-click authors. She adds little things to her stories that make them just a little bit more intriguing, hooking you just a little bit more. Romance isn't about hot and heavy sex. Romance is about the things someone is willing to do for "the one". Damaged is a romance that had me flipping the page, excited for the next great AWWWWWWWW.
Damaged is a story of patience and growth. Maddie has been running from the truth for years, becoming more introverted with every passing day. She lives in a secure building, a safe place. Ryan's sister, Natalie lives in the same place. Ryan's kindness has him knocking on Maddie's door, a door she doesn't want to open. You know from this moment that the romance will be about Maddie and Ryan. You know it isn't a simple or easy romance.
From the first time Ryan sees Maddie he just knows. Maddie is "the one". Unfortunately, Maddie has made herself untouchable. The patience Ryan has with Maddie is amazing. Ryan's way of dealing left me feeling warm and fuzzy. I was wrapped in a blanket of comfort. Ryan is the book boyfriend that won't be forgotten.
Delicate protective layers were slowly peeled away from Maddie's shield, both by Ryan and by Maddie. She is a survivor you can't help but respect. Ryan is the man we wish are sons to become. Damaged doesn't mean beyond repair. Damaged means healing is possible and sweet, caring romance is the medicine.
Damaged is a story of patience and growth. Maddie has been running from the truth for years, becoming more introverted with every passing day. She lives in a secure building, a safe place. Ryan's sister, Natalie lives in the same place. Ryan's kindness has him knocking on Maddie's door, a door she doesn't want to open. You know from this moment that the romance will be about Maddie and Ryan. You know it isn't a simple or easy romance.
From the first time Ryan sees Maddie he just knows. Maddie is "the one". Unfortunately, Maddie has made herself untouchable. The patience Ryan has with Maddie is amazing. Ryan's way of dealing left me feeling warm and fuzzy. I was wrapped in a blanket of comfort. Ryan is the book boyfriend that won't be forgotten.
Delicate protective layers were slowly peeled away from Maddie's shield, both by Ryan and by Maddie. She is a survivor you can't help but respect. Ryan is the man we wish are sons to become. Damaged doesn't mean beyond repair. Damaged means healing is possible and sweet, caring romance is the medicine.
June 24, 2016
Another lovely romance by Jody Holford! I purposely saved this book for a cross-continental trip I had to take, and it was the perfect read for a long and tedious twelve hour journey. Jody drew me in with her believable characters and allowed me space to make my own conclusions about what happened behind closed doors. Noah, Maddi and Nat are written realistically with true-to-life flaws and problems, and I was rooting for them from the beginning.
A wonderful cozy romance for a long trip or a rainy day. I highly recommend it!
A wonderful cozy romance for a long trip or a rainy day. I highly recommend it!
May 6, 2016
3.5/5.0
This was a poignant story that had the theme of enduring domestic violence and getting past it.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This was a poignant story that had the theme of enduring domestic violence and getting past it.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 7, 2019
Noah runs a successful construction company in Denver having left home to escape parental constraints. He has recently moved his sister, Natalie, to a secure apartment in a good part of town to escape her abusive spouse who has left her anxious and insecure. He runs into her next door neighbour Maddie, a child of the foster care system, a loner who eschews social interaction working on her jewelery designs from home.
Maddie is enchanted by the way Noah's T stretches across his broad chest but is skittish as a feral kitten. So begins the mating dance. Noah must have it really bad because 200 pages into the book he has barely made it past first base with the lass and she keeps retreating on him. Noah has his sister in therapy but so far he has no clue what traumas in her past have caused Maddie to be so skittish and turned in on herself though so far we have learned that her parents had smash the china fights on a regular basis and that her fears may have something to do with her brother Jason.
This book is by the same author whose use of profanity caused me to give up on another of her works on page 2 and this one suffers from the same cursing though to a lesser degree. The book also needs attention by a good editor.
Maddie is enchanted by the way Noah's T stretches across his broad chest but is skittish as a feral kitten. So begins the mating dance. Noah must have it really bad because 200 pages into the book he has barely made it past first base with the lass and she keeps retreating on him. Noah has his sister in therapy but so far he has no clue what traumas in her past have caused Maddie to be so skittish and turned in on herself though so far we have learned that her parents had smash the china fights on a regular basis and that her fears may have something to do with her brother Jason.
This book is by the same author whose use of profanity caused me to give up on another of her works on page 2 and this one suffers from the same cursing though to a lesser degree. The book also needs attention by a good editor.
March 9, 2021
Amazing story
What an adventure!! This book was so good. A woman who has shut life out and a man who struggles with guilt and helping his sister. These characters were so intense and damaged. But, they all find a way to find and believe in love again. The author did such a wonderful job of writing this story. The layers and depth of this book draws you in and doesn't let you go. I can't wait to read more by this author.
What an adventure!! This book was so good. A woman who has shut life out and a man who struggles with guilt and helping his sister. These characters were so intense and damaged. But, they all find a way to find and believe in love again. The author did such a wonderful job of writing this story. The layers and depth of this book draws you in and doesn't let you go. I can't wait to read more by this author.
March 12, 2019
This book was about how things that should keep apart 2 people end up bringing them together. Two women with similar past experiences learn about themselves and and how to deal with their past which helps them open themselves to future friendships and perhaps love. This was a light, fun story.
September 20, 2016
I love a book that makes me feel, but this romance/suspense book won't only make you feel the fall of that first meeting, the butterflies from that cute smile, and the thrill of the first kiss, but you will get caught up in the tension of protecting what's important to you, the struggle of overcoming your past, and the hope in moving forward to a better tomorrow.
You will be clutching the edge of your seat and turning those pages as quick as you can, even when it's two in the morning and you have to get up early the next day, because you NEED to know what happens and you need to see all of the little threads come together in the end.
Holford tackles real life situations and characters like she's inside your head or of someone you know. She had me laughing and sighing and screaming to not go there or look behind you! Such a satisfying read in so many ways. Loved it.
You will be clutching the edge of your seat and turning those pages as quick as you can, even when it's two in the morning and you have to get up early the next day, because you NEED to know what happens and you need to see all of the little threads come together in the end.
Holford tackles real life situations and characters like she's inside your head or of someone you know. She had me laughing and sighing and screaming to not go there or look behind you! Such a satisfying read in so many ways. Loved it.
April 19, 2016
4.5 of 5
Copy provided for an honest review.
This is a sweet romance that will break and warm your heart!
Maddie is a smart and strong woman who has and continues to overcome a very difficult past. To survive and move forward she has distanced herself from society and buries herself in her work - making custom designed jewelry that holds deep meaning in her heart. She suffers from various past emotional traumas that she cannot overcome on her own, she needs the strong and sexy man, Noah, who forces her out of her shell more than she knows. I absolutely loved how raw and real Maddie is in this story. Her story is heart breaking yet inspiring. Seeing her “growth” as the story progresses is captivating. She is such well developed and relatable character.
Noah is a strong and supportive man who has always been there for his sister, Natalie, especially after he helps her recover and stand on her own after escaping an abusive relationship. While settling Natalie in her own apartment, he runs into one of the neighbors, Maddie, and is immediately attracted to her. He sees past her strong and unwavering facade and realizes that she too is beautifully broken. Being a compassionate man, he wants to help and will do anything and everything to get to know Maddie.
This story has a strong plot and is filled with great character dialogue/interactions. I felt very much invested in getting to know Maddie, Noah and Natalie. I quickly grew to like them and wanted to know how their stories would progress and where they would end up! I would find it very interesting if another story was written in Natalie’s point of view, I really enjoyed her character.
Although the chemistry is steamy between Noah and Maddie, the sexual content in at a minimum. I would have wanted more but I think it helped to not take away from the main story/plot. It helped to focus on the deep issues of heart break and healing.
Looking for a sweet romance!? Check out this book. I loved Jody’s writing style – I can’t wait to read more!
Copy provided for an honest review.
This is a sweet romance that will break and warm your heart!
Maddie is a smart and strong woman who has and continues to overcome a very difficult past. To survive and move forward she has distanced herself from society and buries herself in her work - making custom designed jewelry that holds deep meaning in her heart. She suffers from various past emotional traumas that she cannot overcome on her own, she needs the strong and sexy man, Noah, who forces her out of her shell more than she knows. I absolutely loved how raw and real Maddie is in this story. Her story is heart breaking yet inspiring. Seeing her “growth” as the story progresses is captivating. She is such well developed and relatable character.
Noah is a strong and supportive man who has always been there for his sister, Natalie, especially after he helps her recover and stand on her own after escaping an abusive relationship. While settling Natalie in her own apartment, he runs into one of the neighbors, Maddie, and is immediately attracted to her. He sees past her strong and unwavering facade and realizes that she too is beautifully broken. Being a compassionate man, he wants to help and will do anything and everything to get to know Maddie.
This story has a strong plot and is filled with great character dialogue/interactions. I felt very much invested in getting to know Maddie, Noah and Natalie. I quickly grew to like them and wanted to know how their stories would progress and where they would end up! I would find it very interesting if another story was written in Natalie’s point of view, I really enjoyed her character.
Although the chemistry is steamy between Noah and Maddie, the sexual content in at a minimum. I would have wanted more but I think it helped to not take away from the main story/plot. It helped to focus on the deep issues of heart break and healing.
Looking for a sweet romance!? Check out this book. I loved Jody’s writing style – I can’t wait to read more!
October 20, 2016
A fantastic read. Maddi & Owen charmed their way into my heart. As the story progressed and Maddi began to lower some of her emotional boundaries I was there with her. Owen kept showing up and not taking no for an answer, "What is wrong with that guy"? Absolutely nothing. I literally couldn't put the book down.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews