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Finally Unbroken #2
What's Left of Me
How do you get over the death of a loved one? The one you were going to marry? Even if you always knew you were on borrowed time...
Ruben Asher has been on a downward spiral ever since the death of his fiancée. Getting lost in a haze of alcohol and grief, he spurns everyone’s help, even his best friends.
Laurie Rosales has lived through a loss that still haunts her every day. She turns her black hole of an existence into helping others. But Ruben is the one man she could never reach...
Nearly two years later, Ruben dives head-first into her life again, surprising both her and himself.
This time, he knows what he wants and he's not backing down.
Can Ruben help Laurie confront buried truths? Can Laurie compete with ghosts from Ruben’s past? Can they break down each other’s walls? Allowing healing to begin on both sides along with feelings like no other.
Ruben Asher has been on a downward spiral ever since the death of his fiancée. Getting lost in a haze of alcohol and grief, he spurns everyone’s help, even his best friends.
Laurie Rosales has lived through a loss that still haunts her every day. She turns her black hole of an existence into helping others. But Ruben is the one man she could never reach...
Nearly two years later, Ruben dives head-first into her life again, surprising both her and himself.
This time, he knows what he wants and he's not backing down.
Can Ruben help Laurie confront buried truths? Can Laurie compete with ghosts from Ruben’s past? Can they break down each other’s walls? Allowing healing to begin on both sides along with feelings like no other.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2016
2 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Maria Macdonald
31 books372 followersMaria Macdonald is an author who writes sometimes, but mostly procrastinates.
She's a serial Netflix watcher, an avid reader (often meaning she burns the dinner) and occasionally she'll throw a book out to her readers. She also likes tea and chocolate!
She writes Paranormal YA, romantic suspense, Coming of Age, MM, New Adult & contemporary romance.
Originally from London, she now lives in South West England.
You can catch up with her at - https://www.facebook.com/authormariam...
She's a serial Netflix watcher, an avid reader (often meaning she burns the dinner) and occasionally she'll throw a book out to her readers. She also likes tea and chocolate!
She writes Paranormal YA, romantic suspense, Coming of Age, MM, New Adult & contemporary romance.
Originally from London, she now lives in South West England.
You can catch up with her at - https://www.facebook.com/authormariam...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 33 reviews
July 29, 2016
'What's Left of Me' is the next part of the Finally Unbroken series and focusses on Rubens story.
His heartbreak and turmoil after lost his first love Amanda sends him into the darkest time of his life...
Excerpt:
"I feel like everything I do is a betrayal of Amanda...because I'm alive and she's not. Because I get to carry on. Because I told her, if only ever love her..."
Being on his journey of not only recovery but healing and release was a tearful one. Another beautifully written story by this talented author. Her words are just so beautifully transcribed you can't help but love the heartbreak she puts you through.
Final excerpt:
...I'm in a place now where I think of my past fondly, warm thoughts and feelings. Memories I can smile at rather than feel pain. I know how it feels when you pass that point, when you climb over that last hurdle, when you get to that place where you're ready to move on.
Another highly recommended read...you all seriously need to meet Ruben!
His heartbreak and turmoil after lost his first love Amanda sends him into the darkest time of his life...
Excerpt:
"I feel like everything I do is a betrayal of Amanda...because I'm alive and she's not. Because I get to carry on. Because I told her, if only ever love her..."
Being on his journey of not only recovery but healing and release was a tearful one. Another beautifully written story by this talented author. Her words are just so beautifully transcribed you can't help but love the heartbreak she puts you through.
Final excerpt:
...I'm in a place now where I think of my past fondly, warm thoughts and feelings. Memories I can smile at rather than feel pain. I know how it feels when you pass that point, when you climb over that last hurdle, when you get to that place where you're ready to move on.
Another highly recommended read...you all seriously need to meet Ruben!
April 26, 2016
*-*possible spoilers if you haven’t read Finally Unbroken first*-*
You know how sometimes you read a book and your left thinking about a character that didn’t get the HEA? That’s Ruben. When I finished Finally Unbroken I needed to know he was ok.
What’s left of me is the epitome of beautifully heart-breaking. The story is painfully honest, reading about Ruben battling his demons is hard going at times. But, the connection and depth of his feeling for Laurie is just gorgeous.
Both Ruben and Laurie have huge amounts of emotional baggage. Getting to read these two find their way through it all is utterly heart warming.
I’m not going to give a run down of the story. It needs to be read to be appreciated.
I was lucky enough to get to Beta read both finally unbroken and what’s left of me. It’s was an absolute joy to see the progression of Maria’s writing. Her words are beautiful, her stories are engaging and I always fall in love with her characters.
5 stars again.
You know how sometimes you read a book and your left thinking about a character that didn’t get the HEA? That’s Ruben. When I finished Finally Unbroken I needed to know he was ok.
What’s left of me is the epitome of beautifully heart-breaking. The story is painfully honest, reading about Ruben battling his demons is hard going at times. But, the connection and depth of his feeling for Laurie is just gorgeous.
Both Ruben and Laurie have huge amounts of emotional baggage. Getting to read these two find their way through it all is utterly heart warming.
I’m not going to give a run down of the story. It needs to be read to be appreciated.
I was lucky enough to get to Beta read both finally unbroken and what’s left of me. It’s was an absolute joy to see the progression of Maria’s writing. Her words are beautiful, her stories are engaging and I always fall in love with her characters.
5 stars again.
October 3, 2016
Two broken souls coming together and making each whole.
Fantastic read well done Maria
Fantastic read well done Maria
April 26, 2017
What's Left Of Me by Maria Macdonald
“finding your self, second chance, 4 stars”
Whats Left Of Me is emotional, angsty (is that even a word?) kind of book. You meet two completely different broken people who are merely surviving. You experience right along with them the pain of their loss’ and figure out how to cope. They dont cope in the healthiest ways in the beginning, but they figure it out by the end.
If you’ve read Finally Unbroken then you’ve met Ruben. Lets face it, you fell in love with him then and have wanted more of him since, well heres your chance. We find out that Ruben has hit rock and I mean rock bottom after losing Amanda. Thankfully over time and with the help of Danny and Anabel he pulls himself out of the pits of dispair.
Laurie watched the two people who meant the most to her die. She never legitamitely coped with her loss. Laurie through herself into work and helping everyone else move on with their loss of loved ones. While burrying herself deeper into her own provate hell.
Laurie and Ruben meet in an unlikely way and I wont tell you how, you just need to read the Whats Left Of Me to find out. I will tell you its a beautiful story and not in the traditional sense.
Maria has done it again. I really enjoyed Ruben and Laurie’s story and feel like she did them justice. Although I do wish the book was longer for my own selfish reasons.
Here are a couple good quotes from What's Left Of Me;
“You can’t save someone who wants to drown, or you’ll end up drowning with them. ”
“Just knowing that someone’s there who loves you, and will catch you should you fall. That person can help you become who you want . That person can give you freedom from your own chains.”
“Every possible future I can think up, in any reality, containing any people dead or alive I still see you. Me and You. You’re all I see,”
Plot- 4/5
Characters- 4/5
Heat- 3/5
Writing style- 4/5
Overall- 4/5
**I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. SBR*
“finding your self, second chance, 4 stars”
Whats Left Of Me is emotional, angsty (is that even a word?) kind of book. You meet two completely different broken people who are merely surviving. You experience right along with them the pain of their loss’ and figure out how to cope. They dont cope in the healthiest ways in the beginning, but they figure it out by the end.
If you’ve read Finally Unbroken then you’ve met Ruben. Lets face it, you fell in love with him then and have wanted more of him since, well heres your chance. We find out that Ruben has hit rock and I mean rock bottom after losing Amanda. Thankfully over time and with the help of Danny and Anabel he pulls himself out of the pits of dispair.
Laurie watched the two people who meant the most to her die. She never legitamitely coped with her loss. Laurie through herself into work and helping everyone else move on with their loss of loved ones. While burrying herself deeper into her own provate hell.
Laurie and Ruben meet in an unlikely way and I wont tell you how, you just need to read the Whats Left Of Me to find out. I will tell you its a beautiful story and not in the traditional sense.
Maria has done it again. I really enjoyed Ruben and Laurie’s story and feel like she did them justice. Although I do wish the book was longer for my own selfish reasons.
Here are a couple good quotes from What's Left Of Me;
“You can’t save someone who wants to drown, or you’ll end up drowning with them. ”
“Just knowing that someone’s there who loves you, and will catch you should you fall. That person can help you become who you want . That person can give you freedom from your own chains.”
“Every possible future I can think up, in any reality, containing any people dead or alive I still see you. Me and You. You’re all I see,”
Plot- 4/5
Characters- 4/5
Heat- 3/5
Writing style- 4/5
Overall- 4/5
**I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. SBR*
September 4, 2021
*5 stars*
An emotional read but so worth it! It's heartbreaking at times to read it. I loved Ruben in the first book and just love him even more now. The emotions he had to go through and to overcome, were overwhelming at times. I had tears in my eyes. It's never easy to lose someone you love and to pick up the pieces someone left behind. I liked the romance between him and Laurie.
After losing the love of his life, Ruben needs to fall down and see that his life is worth to fight for. That he can fall in love again... even if it's hard to move on...
Life is hard and some things or some people are really worth the fight...
An emotional read but so worth it! It's heartbreaking at times to read it. I loved Ruben in the first book and just love him even more now. The emotions he had to go through and to overcome, were overwhelming at times. I had tears in my eyes. It's never easy to lose someone you love and to pick up the pieces someone left behind. I liked the romance between him and Laurie.
After losing the love of his life, Ruben needs to fall down and see that his life is worth to fight for. That he can fall in love again... even if it's hard to move on...
Life is hard and some things or some people are really worth the fight...
January 22, 2019
A big fat five stars without a doubt! So pleased Maria wrote this book for Ruben, excellent story with a lovely closure for him showing you can love again. Just brilliant!
July 3, 2016
So first thing to say is if you haven't read Finally Unbroken then you need to read it first in order to get the full background story.
Ruben is completely broken by what happened to Amanda and has struggled to find any sort of peace with it, his peace came in a bottle that really was his only concern. He pushed everyone one away but this story was about fighting demons, moving on & healing.
Enter Laurie, a truly sweet sweet girl who has had a terrible life but despite this keeps on fighting, keeps on smiling and keeps on helping everyone else.
When Rubén and Laurie are in the same vicinity sparks fly and not always in a good way either, but eventually they get past that especially Ruben, and things then develop at a decent pace. They are not without struggles and Ruben feels a lot of guilt over the past but these two just make complete sense together.
A wonderful follow up, that had me anxious, sad and then really damn happy!
Don't miss out on these wonderful stories that show life certainly does go on no matter how hard and you can find that light at the end of a very long tunnel
Ruben is completely broken by what happened to Amanda and has struggled to find any sort of peace with it, his peace came in a bottle that really was his only concern. He pushed everyone one away but this story was about fighting demons, moving on & healing.
Enter Laurie, a truly sweet sweet girl who has had a terrible life but despite this keeps on fighting, keeps on smiling and keeps on helping everyone else.
When Rubén and Laurie are in the same vicinity sparks fly and not always in a good way either, but eventually they get past that especially Ruben, and things then develop at a decent pace. They are not without struggles and Ruben feels a lot of guilt over the past but these two just make complete sense together.
A wonderful follow up, that had me anxious, sad and then really damn happy!
Don't miss out on these wonderful stories that show life certainly does go on no matter how hard and you can find that light at the end of a very long tunnel
April 21, 2016
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“My name on his lips sounds like a promise. I’m just not sure what he’s promising me.”
“He watches you like he’s sure that any minute, you’re going to do something extraordinary, and he absolutely doesn’t want to miss it.”
“This woman has me seeing my future in a different color than I ever have before.”
“If he hurts you again, though, I will not be responsible for what appendage I’ll cut off. Remember, I’m off to study medicine.”
He’s the one who holds me when I break. I love him and he loves me. More than that. He’s in love with all of me. Every part. I’m enough…”
My Review:
Tragedy, grief, sorrow, angst, second chances, and new love inhabit this melancholy and heart-squeezing read. However, it is well worth the emotional tension and tears when you get to the end and their oh so satisfying HEA. Maria Macdonald is the queen of angst and emotive storytelling, and sucks me in as very few can.
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“My name on his lips sounds like a promise. I’m just not sure what he’s promising me.”
“He watches you like he’s sure that any minute, you’re going to do something extraordinary, and he absolutely doesn’t want to miss it.”
“This woman has me seeing my future in a different color than I ever have before.”
“If he hurts you again, though, I will not be responsible for what appendage I’ll cut off. Remember, I’m off to study medicine.”
He’s the one who holds me when I break. I love him and he loves me. More than that. He’s in love with all of me. Every part. I’m enough…”
My Review:
Tragedy, grief, sorrow, angst, second chances, and new love inhabit this melancholy and heart-squeezing read. However, it is well worth the emotional tension and tears when you get to the end and their oh so satisfying HEA. Maria Macdonald is the queen of angst and emotive storytelling, and sucks me in as very few can.
June 24, 2016
Seriously, I read this book so fast that I kept wanting more of it. Excellent story! It caught my attention from the beginning.
I loved the way that Laurie and Rubén help each other cope with their sorrows.
And for some reason, I really liked Amber. I can't even say why. Lol~
Honestly, I was delighted with the whole story. I really loved it!
I loved the way that Laurie and Rubén help each other cope with their sorrows.
And for some reason, I really liked Amber. I can't even say why. Lol~
Honestly, I was delighted with the whole story. I really loved it!
May 8, 2017
I absolutely adored this book. A huge thank you to the author for giving us Ruben and Laurie's story which was an emotional roller coaster and I loved every page.
November 3, 2018
I was so excited to read Ruben's story and yet again Maria Macdonald did not disappoint.. a story of heartbreak and repair this story touched me so deeply.. and yes, there were tears!! Ruben was at rock bottom and pushed away all those who tried to help him. Laurie had her own demons and was determined not to make the same mistake again.
Slowly these two form a bond but will they be able to give their hearts to each other and finally find peace.
A heart warming story written with compassion. Highly recommended.
Slowly these two form a bond but will they be able to give their hearts to each other and finally find peace.
A heart warming story written with compassion. Highly recommended.
February 26, 2018
What a perfect book. Ruben was crushed at the end of Finally Unbroken, it was good to read how he came through that. To come through losing your fiancée and find your happily ever after was a truly beautiful read. Ruben deserved his hea, Laurie deserved her hea too. A perfect end to this duet. I shed a few tears but they were happy tears this time. Thank you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Great little duet
May 28, 2017
Bloody aaaaaammmmmmaaaaazzzzziiiiiinnnnnnggggggggg!!
July 5, 2017
I love Ruben. I love that he got his closure and happy ever after ❤️
April 18, 2018
Brilliant read
I loved this book with it showing that you can love again and have a second chance at love I love the characters in it
I loved this book with it showing that you can love again and have a second chance at love I love the characters in it
February 25, 2020
Lovely
Awww, that was so lovely. Such a heart warning and uplifting ending to what was a tragic beginning to both their stories.
Awww, that was so lovely. Such a heart warning and uplifting ending to what was a tragic beginning to both their stories.
April 12, 2016
What's left of me was not the book I was expecting. It was no doubt a million times better than I'd ever imagine it would be and left me with a smile so big, my mouth still hurts from grinning so much! While its predecessor was about the ultimate love and second chances, this one was about acceptance, healing, growing, living and loving again. Maria hit one out of the park in this stunning story of Ruben and Laurie and their struggling journey to becoming whole again.
Ruben was definitely the most mysterious character in Finally Unbroken. In having his own story told, we see just how broken and lost he is years after Amanda has lost her life. His downward spiral only gets worse as each day passes and you can't help but carry a heavy heart for him as his anger and resentment slowly eat him alive.He can't heal and move on until a push from Anabel and Danny finally forces him to get better and get him the help he needs.
I absolutely adored Laurie. I love how she said that while every loss is different, it's profound to the person who lives. No one loss is worse than the other, it's just different. Laurie is tough, strong, resilient, a survivor in more ways than one, a sister, an aunt, and a makeshift mom. But deep down she blames herself for the death of her sister and nephew in an accident that's not even her fault. She lives her life thinking she's hiding her secrets well but it's not until those close to her force her to see that she's just going through the motions.
Ruben and Laurie help each other heal in ways that that only have you rooting for them to finally grab ahold of one another and go for their own deserved HEA. He finally admits to himself that while he might have been in love with Amanda, Laurie is his forever. And she finally accepts that she is not a second hand prize and that Ruben truly loves her despite the truths that come from her secrets. They've both had to persevere through more hard times than most would ever have to live through for one lifetime and it's in the love and strength they find in each other that gets them through any hard times they might face again.
Grab your tissues, grab a fan (for those hot, Hot, HOT parts), and grab this amazing book because if love, laughter, tears, good times and hard times is the recipe for the perfect book, then look no further than What's Left of Me! You will no doubt love the strength and beauty of this amazing story! Amazing, heart felt book Maria :).
Ruben was definitely the most mysterious character in Finally Unbroken. In having his own story told, we see just how broken and lost he is years after Amanda has lost her life. His downward spiral only gets worse as each day passes and you can't help but carry a heavy heart for him as his anger and resentment slowly eat him alive.He can't heal and move on until a push from Anabel and Danny finally forces him to get better and get him the help he needs.
I absolutely adored Laurie. I love how she said that while every loss is different, it's profound to the person who lives. No one loss is worse than the other, it's just different. Laurie is tough, strong, resilient, a survivor in more ways than one, a sister, an aunt, and a makeshift mom. But deep down she blames herself for the death of her sister and nephew in an accident that's not even her fault. She lives her life thinking she's hiding her secrets well but it's not until those close to her force her to see that she's just going through the motions.
Ruben and Laurie help each other heal in ways that that only have you rooting for them to finally grab ahold of one another and go for their own deserved HEA. He finally admits to himself that while he might have been in love with Amanda, Laurie is his forever. And she finally accepts that she is not a second hand prize and that Ruben truly loves her despite the truths that come from her secrets. They've both had to persevere through more hard times than most would ever have to live through for one lifetime and it's in the love and strength they find in each other that gets them through any hard times they might face again.
Grab your tissues, grab a fan (for those hot, Hot, HOT parts), and grab this amazing book because if love, laughter, tears, good times and hard times is the recipe for the perfect book, then look no further than What's Left of Me! You will no doubt love the strength and beauty of this amazing story! Amazing, heart felt book Maria :).
April 24, 2016
I’m sure I’m wasn’t the only one that was thinking, “What about Ruben?” at the end of Finally Unbroken. I couldn’t fathom the thought of him out there suffering; he deserved a shot at a HEA as well. So to say I was over the moon when I found out the author was going to write a novella for him would be an understatement.
I know, I know. You’re thinking to yourself, “She’s nuts!” I may be, but I’m also passionate about these characters. None more so than Ruben.
It’s been five years since cancer so cruelly cut Amanda’s life short, leaving Ruben in the pits of despair and alcohol. Now, though, he is finally on the path to recovery. It’s also been two years since he last blew through Laurie Rosales’s life.
Laurie is living half a life; haunted by her own loss. She tries to channel all of that into helping others through her work at the community centre. The only person she’s never been able to reach is Ruben Asher:
“You can’t save someone who wants to drown, or you’ll end up drowning with them.”
When Ruben re-enters her life, he can see behind her perfectly formed mask to the very real pain underneath. What begins as a tentative friendship turns into the possibility of more.
Can Ruben help Laurie slay her own demons? Can he see beyond his guilt and grab the HEA he deserves? Can Laurie come to terms with the events from her past? Can she compete with Amanda’s memory? Does she have to?
These questions and more are answered in this emotional and heartfelt story. No two people needed each more than Ruben and Laurie. I was a wreck at the end of this book, but in a good way. Their world had shifted back into place.
I’ll leave you with Ruben:
“She doesn’t make me better, she just gives me a reason to crave a better life for myself.”
I know, I know. You’re thinking to yourself, “She’s nuts!” I may be, but I’m also passionate about these characters. None more so than Ruben.
It’s been five years since cancer so cruelly cut Amanda’s life short, leaving Ruben in the pits of despair and alcohol. Now, though, he is finally on the path to recovery. It’s also been two years since he last blew through Laurie Rosales’s life.
Laurie is living half a life; haunted by her own loss. She tries to channel all of that into helping others through her work at the community centre. The only person she’s never been able to reach is Ruben Asher:
“You can’t save someone who wants to drown, or you’ll end up drowning with them.”
When Ruben re-enters her life, he can see behind her perfectly formed mask to the very real pain underneath. What begins as a tentative friendship turns into the possibility of more.
Can Ruben help Laurie slay her own demons? Can he see beyond his guilt and grab the HEA he deserves? Can Laurie come to terms with the events from her past? Can she compete with Amanda’s memory? Does she have to?
These questions and more are answered in this emotional and heartfelt story. No two people needed each more than Ruben and Laurie. I was a wreck at the end of this book, but in a good way. Their world had shifted back into place.
I’ll leave you with Ruben:
“She doesn’t make me better, she just gives me a reason to crave a better life for myself.”
April 22, 2016
***Gifted in exchange for an honest review ***
Amanda. Forever my star. Never forgotten. Eternally loved.
OMG!! This book is Just AMAZING!!
How do you go on when you’ve lost the love of your life, when you’re so heartbroken the world doesn’t make sense anymore, when you can’t see anything or anyone but the despair that you’re in?
That’s how Ruben felt when he lost Amanda. After drowning in booze for years. He finally decides to drag himself out from the pits of hell and get himself cleaned up and straightened out.
Ruben’s angry at the world, so he doesn’t see what’s in front of him until the blurry haze of alcohol wears off and then he sees her – Laurie.
“When she stares at me, her eyes push through every external wall that I’ve built up throughout my whole life. She doesn’t just slay my demons, she decimates them, just with her smile or her voice. Just by standing next to me”.
Ruben and Laurie are such a beautiful couple! This is a gut wrenching, heart breaking, emotional tale of grief and loss and an amazing and beautiful chance of hope and love in its newest form.
“I’ll always love you, Amanda, but I’m in love with Laurie. You were my first, she’s my forever”.
Oh my poor heart has really gone through the mill with these two books and they will always have a place in my heart and the characters in it. I could probably do a review full of quotes for this but I can’t, unfortunately. This a definite must read!
Maria Macdonald you completely broke me!! I love Maria’s writing it hits me straight in the heart and doesn’t let go of me, and will always stay with me.
“This is us living forever”.
5 Gut wrenching stars!!!
Sarah!
Amanda. Forever my star. Never forgotten. Eternally loved.
OMG!! This book is Just AMAZING!!
How do you go on when you’ve lost the love of your life, when you’re so heartbroken the world doesn’t make sense anymore, when you can’t see anything or anyone but the despair that you’re in?
That’s how Ruben felt when he lost Amanda. After drowning in booze for years. He finally decides to drag himself out from the pits of hell and get himself cleaned up and straightened out.
Ruben’s angry at the world, so he doesn’t see what’s in front of him until the blurry haze of alcohol wears off and then he sees her – Laurie.
“When she stares at me, her eyes push through every external wall that I’ve built up throughout my whole life. She doesn’t just slay my demons, she decimates them, just with her smile or her voice. Just by standing next to me”.
Ruben and Laurie are such a beautiful couple! This is a gut wrenching, heart breaking, emotional tale of grief and loss and an amazing and beautiful chance of hope and love in its newest form.
“I’ll always love you, Amanda, but I’m in love with Laurie. You were my first, she’s my forever”.
Oh my poor heart has really gone through the mill with these two books and they will always have a place in my heart and the characters in it. I could probably do a review full of quotes for this but I can’t, unfortunately. This a definite must read!
Maria Macdonald you completely broke me!! I love Maria’s writing it hits me straight in the heart and doesn’t let go of me, and will always stay with me.
“This is us living forever”.
5 Gut wrenching stars!!!
Sarah!
April 24, 2016
***Gifted in exchange for an honest review ***
Amanda. Forever my star. Never forgotten. Eternally loved
.
OMG!! This book is Just AMAZING!!
How do you go on when you’ve lost the love of your life, when you’re so heartbroken the world doesn’t make sense anymore, when you can’t see anything or anyone but the despair that you’re in?
That’s how Ruben felt when he lost Amanda. After drowning in booze for years. He finally decides to drag himself out from the pits of hell and get himself cleaned up and straightened out.
Ruben’s angry at the world, so he doesn’t see what’s in front of him until the blurry haze of alcohol wears off and then he sees her – Laurie.
“When she stares at me, her eyes push through every external wall that I’ve built up throughout my whole life. She doesn’t just slay my demons, she decimates them, just with her smile or her voice. Just by standing next to me”.
Ruben and Laurie are such a beautiful couple! This is a gut wrenching, heart breaking, emotional tale of grief and loss and an amazing and beautiful chance of hope and love in its newest form.
“I’ll always love you, Amanda, but I’m in love with Laurie. You were my first, she’s my forever”.
Oh my poor heart has really gone through the mill with these two books and they will always have a place in my heart and the characters in it. I could probably do a review full of quotes for this but I can’t, unfortunately. This a definite must read!
Maria Macdonald you completely broke me!! I love Maria’s writing it hits me straight in the heart and doesn’t let go of me, and will always stay with me.
“This is us living forever”.
5 Gut wrenching stars!!!
Sarah!
Amanda. Forever my star. Never forgotten. Eternally loved
.
OMG!! This book is Just AMAZING!!
How do you go on when you’ve lost the love of your life, when you’re so heartbroken the world doesn’t make sense anymore, when you can’t see anything or anyone but the despair that you’re in?
That’s how Ruben felt when he lost Amanda. After drowning in booze for years. He finally decides to drag himself out from the pits of hell and get himself cleaned up and straightened out.
Ruben’s angry at the world, so he doesn’t see what’s in front of him until the blurry haze of alcohol wears off and then he sees her – Laurie.
“When she stares at me, her eyes push through every external wall that I’ve built up throughout my whole life. She doesn’t just slay my demons, she decimates them, just with her smile or her voice. Just by standing next to me”.
Ruben and Laurie are such a beautiful couple! This is a gut wrenching, heart breaking, emotional tale of grief and loss and an amazing and beautiful chance of hope and love in its newest form.
“I’ll always love you, Amanda, but I’m in love with Laurie. You were my first, she’s my forever”.
Oh my poor heart has really gone through the mill with these two books and they will always have a place in my heart and the characters in it. I could probably do a review full of quotes for this but I can’t, unfortunately. This a definite must read!
Maria Macdonald you completely broke me!! I love Maria’s writing it hits me straight in the heart and doesn’t let go of me, and will always stay with me.
“This is us living forever”.
5 Gut wrenching stars!!!
Sarah!
April 25, 2016
Heartbreakingly good…
I couldn’t wait for Ruben Asher’s story but at the same time I knew I wasn’t going to be ready. Devastated doesn’t even begin to describe his state of mind at the end of the first book in the series and this continues his journey of loss and, hopefully, recovery. This was an emotional powerhouse right from the start. This author can squeeze every feeling out of her characters – from joy to anger to soul-breaking grief - and make it seem effortless.
Ruben was not handling the loss of his love, not at all. He’d barely had her and she was gone. He was trying to drink his pain away but it wasn’t working at all well, as those trying to help him knew. Something had to give else he was going to be lost to them as well… Laurie Rosales tried to reach him. She was no stranger to grief and guilt and she knew she could make a difference. But even she came to think he might be the one person she could not save…
Ruben and Laurie both had demons they were dealing with but in very different ways. Ruben found solace in a bottle and Laurie simply didn’t deal. What they both could agree on was they were linked together, attracted to one another, in a way that even anger and pain couldn’t break. The strength they both had to find as they dealt with life-altering truths was both painful and awe-inspiring. Their story was sad but sweet and hopeful at the same time.
Five teary but happy stars!
April 22, 2016
At the end of Finally Unbroken I remember thinking "I really hope Maria writes a book for Ruben." He had interested me in Finally Unbroken and I was desperate to read more about him.
What's left of Me is an enthralling, emotional read that sucked me in from the very beginning. I think it's safe to say I fell in love with Ruben instantly. He's is a super sexy, swoony man.
The relationship between Ruben and Laurie was beautiful. Both broken and just existing, they finally break through each other's walls and fall in love.
Maria writes a truly stunning story for these two that perfectly touched on their past issues and how they came to be together. As this is only a novella, things move quite fast and I would have loved to read more about these two and filled in some of the gaps in time where they build their relationship, because I loved them and I want more. I'm greedy! And these two were great!
What's Left Of Me pulls on the heart strings, made me smile, made me cry and left me feeling blissfully warm. 4.5 blissful, breathtaking stars.
What's left of Me is an enthralling, emotional read that sucked me in from the very beginning. I think it's safe to say I fell in love with Ruben instantly. He's is a super sexy, swoony man.
The relationship between Ruben and Laurie was beautiful. Both broken and just existing, they finally break through each other's walls and fall in love.
Maria writes a truly stunning story for these two that perfectly touched on their past issues and how they came to be together. As this is only a novella, things move quite fast and I would have loved to read more about these two and filled in some of the gaps in time where they build their relationship, because I loved them and I want more. I'm greedy! And these two were great!
What's Left Of Me pulls on the heart strings, made me smile, made me cry and left me feeling blissfully warm. 4.5 blissful, breathtaking stars.
April 22, 2016
There are definitely some authors that just know how to Make my emotions completely come to life with their books. And Maria has to be one of them. I honestly thought that after reading Finally Unbroken any other book after that would not be as hard to read. God Lord was I wrong!!...Ruben story had to be the most heartbreaking story. I was able to literally feel the overwhelming pain by his loss. Ugh there was moments I wished I was able to go in the damn book and just hold him. I literally fell completely in love with Rubens character. And I completely agree with Maria that his story definitely needed to be told. And told she did! I Believe a cursed out Maria A few times For making my Heart break as bad as she did. But some books are just meant to be felt.. every word, every page.....just everything. This book Is definitely 5+ stars for me, my only small complain is that I wished it would have been longer just so I could have more of My RUBEN. Bravo Maria!!..You have done it once again!..You have given us a Breath taking Series <3
April 22, 2016
If you haven't read Finally Unbroken by Maria I strongly suggest you do as What's Left of me continues on from the heartbreaking story in Finally Unbroken.
After losing the first women he loved Rueben has spent the past five years in a Drink induced state. His business is being run by someone else, he cares for nothing or about anyone.
Laurie is dealing with her own demons, she previously tried to help Rueben a couple of years ago and is shocked when he turns up to one of her counselling groups.
Although we know Rueben and all the tragedy he had been through this story also focuses on Laurie. Life has been hard on her, I wanted to jump into the book and lend her my coat.
So I needed this story so much, I needed to know that Rueben was ok, that he could find love after Amanda.
Maria wrote the story Beautifully, she addresses each emotion of pain and how differently people deal with it.
A brilliant captivating book. Well done!!
After losing the first women he loved Rueben has spent the past five years in a Drink induced state. His business is being run by someone else, he cares for nothing or about anyone.
Laurie is dealing with her own demons, she previously tried to help Rueben a couple of years ago and is shocked when he turns up to one of her counselling groups.
Although we know Rueben and all the tragedy he had been through this story also focuses on Laurie. Life has been hard on her, I wanted to jump into the book and lend her my coat.
So I needed this story so much, I needed to know that Rueben was ok, that he could find love after Amanda.
Maria wrote the story Beautifully, she addresses each emotion of pain and how differently people deal with it.
A brilliant captivating book. Well done!!
April 22, 2016
OMG, I'm just a mess!! What a beautiful, heartbreaking story!!
This is a novella - Ruben's story. I have to say ever since I've read Finally Unbroken - OMFG!! I was ABSOLUTLEY thrilled that Ruben finally gets his story of his own...
I really needed to know that Ruben would be ok in near future as time heals?? Right? How do you get over losing someone you love & were going to marry?? God, I just love the way this book was written, my emotions were all over the place! I adore a book that does that to me as it stays with me for a long time!!
Honestly read the first book - Finally Unbroken then read this to appreciate this amazing stories that I can guarantee you will LOVE them. Just have a box of tissues on standby cos trust me you will need them! And a bonus that will leave you with a HUGE smile on your face once you have finish.
Thank you Maria for giving us Ruben's story!! :)
*ARC kindly provided by the Author for an honest review*
This is a novella - Ruben's story. I have to say ever since I've read Finally Unbroken - OMFG!! I was ABSOLUTLEY thrilled that Ruben finally gets his story of his own...
I really needed to know that Ruben would be ok in near future as time heals?? Right? How do you get over losing someone you love & were going to marry?? God, I just love the way this book was written, my emotions were all over the place! I adore a book that does that to me as it stays with me for a long time!!
Honestly read the first book - Finally Unbroken then read this to appreciate this amazing stories that I can guarantee you will LOVE them. Just have a box of tissues on standby cos trust me you will need them! And a bonus that will leave you with a HUGE smile on your face once you have finish.
Thank you Maria for giving us Ruben's story!! :)
*ARC kindly provided by the Author for an honest review*
July 30, 2016
More than 10 stars !!!
*I was lucky enough to received an ARC of this book for an honest review*
Maria this book, this novella, this story play with my emotions. The loss of someone is devastating, but willing to accept that is a much difficult process. Ruben's story was just perfect in every way possible. The bond between the characters are beautiful. The meaning of those books is beyond amazing. Maria once again you did it. Thnk you for this.... Can't wait to read more and more about your stories!!! I'm very proud!!!
*I was lucky enough to received an ARC of this book for an honest review*
Maria this book, this novella, this story play with my emotions. The loss of someone is devastating, but willing to accept that is a much difficult process. Ruben's story was just perfect in every way possible. The bond between the characters are beautiful. The meaning of those books is beyond amazing. Maria once again you did it. Thnk you for this.... Can't wait to read more and more about your stories!!! I'm very proud!!!
April 23, 2016
I was so happy that Maria done a book for Rubén. While reading Finally Unbroken I could feel they Rubén wanted a voice and to show what happened to him.
This story touched me it shows the moving on from such a heartbreak and the emotions the growth & the Ossian that both of these characters shown was incredible.
It also shows the growth of Maria's writing and how amazing directions her characters are going.
Loved this book and I enjoyed where this story went & how much feelings it brought out.
Amo xx
This story touched me it shows the moving on from such a heartbreak and the emotions the growth & the Ossian that both of these characters shown was incredible.
It also shows the growth of Maria's writing and how amazing directions her characters are going.
Loved this book and I enjoyed where this story went & how much feelings it brought out.
Amo xx
April 23, 2016
Omfg... My poor poor Ruben... My heart broke for Ruben in Finally Unbroken... Losing someone like that would kill something inside you..
This story is about Acceptance, Forgiving, Healing and Finding Happiness again.
Maria Macdonald did an amazing job once again for delivering an heart warming story.
This story is about Acceptance, Forgiving, Healing and Finding Happiness again.
Maria Macdonald did an amazing job once again for delivering an heart warming story.
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