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Broken Lives #2
Shattered Poetry
Nothing good could come from falling for Dante. He was the forbidden fruit I should never have tasted, the apple of his gangbanging father’s eye. If the law didn’t get to me first, I would suffer worse by his father’s hand.
So, I tried to push Dante away, tried so hard not to give in to the beautiful temptation sitting in the back row of my classroom. Because I knew if I gave in to him, he could ruin my life, shattering everything that I held dear: my marriage, my career, my freedom.
But I couldn’t resist him.
And now I was going to suffer the consequences.
Tags: Taboo, Literary Fiction, Teacher/Student Relationship, English Teacher, Male Student, Mental Health Issues, Abuse, Poetry, Gangs, High School.
The BROKEN LIVES series will be broken up into two sets (duets). Each set (duet) has a self-contained, standalone story. Broken English (part 1) and Shattered Poetry (Part 2) are the first set, finishing the high school stage of Clara’s and Dante’s lives. The next set, books 3 and 4, is a new story, taking their relationship to another level.
So, I tried to push Dante away, tried so hard not to give in to the beautiful temptation sitting in the back row of my classroom. Because I knew if I gave in to him, he could ruin my life, shattering everything that I held dear: my marriage, my career, my freedom.
But I couldn’t resist him.
And now I was going to suffer the consequences.
Tags: Taboo, Literary Fiction, Teacher/Student Relationship, English Teacher, Male Student, Mental Health Issues, Abuse, Poetry, Gangs, High School.
The BROKEN LIVES series will be broken up into two sets (duets). Each set (duet) has a self-contained, standalone story. Broken English (part 1) and Shattered Poetry (Part 2) are the first set, finishing the high school stage of Clara’s and Dante’s lives. The next set, books 3 and 4, is a new story, taking their relationship to another level.
369 pages, ebook
Published December 8, 2016
20 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Marita A. Hansen
100 books855 followersSOME FACTS ABOUT ME:
I'm a New Zealander from Auckland, with dual citizenship (NZ and Croatia). I've also lived in Kerikeri, Singapore and Papua New Guinea.
CAREER PATH: I started off as a Graphic Designer, then went to Auckland University, where I got a BA degree in Art History and Italian Studies and a post-graduate Honors degree in Art History. I worked in the Art History field, then became a full-time artist, doing commissions. I eventually lost all of my senses and gave it up to be a self-published writer, publishing my first book in 2011. Though, earlier in 2023 I returned to art, shelving being a writer since book pirates made it impossible to earn a living from my work, excessively pirating my books. They basically broke my spirit. However, a very nice reader spurred me on to try again, so I'm attempting to revive my writing career.
BAD HABITS: I'm a major procrastinator, I stay up way too late, and I get distracted far too easily unless it's doing something I love. My mind never stops racing, can't turn ADHD off.
SPORTS: As a teenager my favourite sports were karate, badminton, and running. I also did unarmed combat and played in a touch rugby team (my gym teacher made me do the last one!) As an adult, I've couched soccer and have completed two marathons, numerous half-marathons and one 30K run, though I stick to the gym now, hanging up my running shoes.
STATUS: Married to my high school sweetheart (which he hates me calling him). We have two kids.
Author Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Marita-A-Han...
I'm a New Zealander from Auckland, with dual citizenship (NZ and Croatia). I've also lived in Kerikeri, Singapore and Papua New Guinea.
CAREER PATH: I started off as a Graphic Designer, then went to Auckland University, where I got a BA degree in Art History and Italian Studies and a post-graduate Honors degree in Art History. I worked in the Art History field, then became a full-time artist, doing commissions. I eventually lost all of my senses and gave it up to be a self-published writer, publishing my first book in 2011. Though, earlier in 2023 I returned to art, shelving being a writer since book pirates made it impossible to earn a living from my work, excessively pirating my books. They basically broke my spirit. However, a very nice reader spurred me on to try again, so I'm attempting to revive my writing career.
BAD HABITS: I'm a major procrastinator, I stay up way too late, and I get distracted far too easily unless it's doing something I love. My mind never stops racing, can't turn ADHD off.
SPORTS: As a teenager my favourite sports were karate, badminton, and running. I also did unarmed combat and played in a touch rugby team (my gym teacher made me do the last one!) As an adult, I've couched soccer and have completed two marathons, numerous half-marathons and one 30K run, though I stick to the gym now, hanging up my running shoes.
STATUS: Married to my high school sweetheart (which he hates me calling him). We have two kids.
Author Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Marita-A-Han...
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April 10, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Shattered Poetry, book 2. The continuation of Dante & Clara’s reckless & forbidden romance as the world around them erupts!
“My willpower hadn’t just dissolved…
It was shattered.”
Books in Broken Lives series should be read in order:
Book 1: Broken English
Book 2: Shattered Poetry
Book 3: Jagged Pill
Book 4: Love Drunk
The Broken Lives series follows student, drug dealer and poet, Dante Ivan Rata from the age of fifteen into adulthood as he copes with family, life, school, drugs, women, sex and more sex. Born and raised into violence, drugs, gangs and crime, but underneath the rough exterior is a complex and reflective young man marred by the devastation of murder, helplessness of drug addiction and unspeakable secrets.
“He was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung, the apple from Eden—so delicious, yet morally wrong.”
In Broken English, book 1 Dante met his new English teacher, Clara Freja Hatton, Mrs. Hatton. They were off to a rough start dealing with schoolwork and boundaries while both fighting an intense and forbidden attraction… A cocky Dante set out to seduce his teacher.
Shattered Poetry, book 2 opens up to the aftermath of book 1 shocking ending. Clara struggles with her growing feelings for Dante and will continue to make bad decisions that fuels their reckless romance. But as Dante’s world is rocked by more set-backs their time together will come to be peace within chaos.
There are no words that can fairly describe the complexity of Dante Ivan Rata. He is cocky, uninhibited, self-sabotaging, reckless, brave, volatile, unpredictable, vulnerable, broken and brutally honest (even when he lies) and there is such wisdom to his immaturity. His uncanny beauty is a blessing, but mostly a curse.
Clara Freja Hatton, Mrs. Hatton did not stand a chance against the force that is Dante. Clara was who she needed to be; torn, guilt ridden and oftentimes weak. Six words to describe Clara: Caring, reflective, naïve, immature, misguided and meek.
Shattered Poetry, told from dual POVs, is a forbidden and impossible yet inevitable love. Poetically told with excellent character development and an explosive plot filled with danger, jealousy, deception, violence and secrets. It ends with one chapter of their lives coming to an end marking the end of Dante’s high school years. Up next is book 3, Jagged Pill for the next phase in their saga.
Addicting! Forbidden! Reckless! Sinfully good!
“But the way he was kissing me was anything but childish, far from it. It was sensual, passionate… incredible.”
***
Hero: ★★★★★++
Heroine: ★★★★
Plot: ★★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★+
Sexual tension: ★★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angst: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Humor: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Kink: | LOW FOCUS |
Romance: | LOW FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | LOW FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Thank you to the shhluts on Shh… for our ARC(F)BR this week: https://goo.gl/Tbgpud
ARC provided to me by author Marita Hansen in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2016
"I went from feeling like I was on the greatest high ever to crashing within seconds..."
Shattered Poetry is the second book in the Broken Lives Series. After the explosive ending in Broken English, Clara and Dante are back. As chaos continues to crash down on them, the lines between right and wrong become more blurred, and everything that is broken becomes more shattered and beautifully flawed.
"Whether it was women or drugs, bitterness always followed, telling me nothing would, or ever could, be perfect."Clara Hatton is back in the classroom and schooling Dante in English has been put on the back burner as the focus shifts to dueling gangs, violence, abuse, and a raw lust that is consuming. Dante is still struggling with his trust issues, and his feelings for Clara only further complicate his ability to find himself. Longing for safety and love, he self-medicates with whatever he can get his hands on. His favorite thing to have in his hands is, of course, Clara.
With her marriage crumbling before her eyes, Clara's life is turned upside down. Her desire for Dante is toxic to her job, her family, and her conscience. But you know what they say when something feels so right, how could it possibly be wrong?
"I didn't want her ever to stop touching me. She was better than any drug-ecstasy in female form, her touch giving me more pleasure than I'd ever felt before."Told in multiple points of views, Shattered Poetry has a multi-layered plot with many characters clamoring for a better life. With a blend of forbidden romance, gang violence, broken families, and addiction dysfunction colors every moment of Shattered Poetry. The action in the plot keeps the pacing intense, and although I continued to hope for each character to find their way, they seemed to continue to sink further into their own individual torment. With complex characters, an intense plot, and tragic circumstances, Shattered Poetry is full of angst and unbridled passion. If you thought the ending in Broken English was explosive Shattered Poetry is like a crashing tsunami. With the curveball of the century, Ms. Hansen promises to keep us guessing until the bitter end.
Overall, Shattered Poetry is a perfect read for someone ready to dive deep into the abyss of emotions and forbidden romance. Although I wasn't able to personally connect with any of the characters (or understand their choices), I was completely invested in their stories, and no matter how much I wanted to stop and take a break from the madness, I simply couldn't tear my eyes away. I cannot even begin to imagine the direction that the genius mind of Marita A. Hansen will take these characters in the next installment in the series. As in all epic stories, it appears that this is only the beginning! With expertly crafted text and vibrant colors, the Broken Lives Series is one that I will never forget.
***Broken Lives***
*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!
*This is a BR with the Shhluts!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
December 5, 2016
4 Stars.
This one picks up straight after book one where Clara and Dante must face the consequences of their actions.
I'm not going to go into the story in too much detail but baring in mind the time scale here is very short a lot happens.
I have to say my comments/thoughts about Clara didn't spoil my enjoyment of this book,after all some of the best books have a character you don't like.
Clara really should be the one taking responsibility here,she knows she's crossed a dangerous line but seems unable to give Dante up.I found her very self absorbed for the majority of the book.
I loved Dante in book one and actually liked him more here.Having said that,for some reason,I was a lot more aware of his age here.He's getting pulled in every direction trying to make sense of everything.He's confused about how Clara feels for him and on top of that he's trying to keep a lid on Jasper's volitile behaviour.
I really enjoyed the indroductin of Phelia's pov.I thought this was actually quite important to the story.And I really felt for her,she's hopelessly in love with Dante and,as a result,finds herself caught up between two rival gangs.
This is extremely fast paced,talk about a page turner....I simply couldn't put it down.The sex scenes are not very explicit but I actually thought they worked here.Despite the strong physical attraction Clara and Dante have for each other I could feel that their relationship was becoming more than just sex.
The writing is superb.The Author gives us characters that are deeply flawed but I'm so invested in this story.I think the eventual outcome of their story will be epic.
Arc from Author
He was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung,the apple from Eden-so delicious,yet morally wrong.
This one picks up straight after book one where Clara and Dante must face the consequences of their actions.
I'm not going to go into the story in too much detail but baring in mind the time scale here is very short a lot happens.
I have to say my comments/thoughts about Clara didn't spoil my enjoyment of this book,after all some of the best books have a character you don't like.
Clara really should be the one taking responsibility here,she knows she's crossed a dangerous line but seems unable to give Dante up.I found her very self absorbed for the majority of the book.
I loved Dante in book one and actually liked him more here.Having said that,for some reason,I was a lot more aware of his age here.He's getting pulled in every direction trying to make sense of everything.He's confused about how Clara feels for him and on top of that he's trying to keep a lid on Jasper's volitile behaviour.
I really enjoyed the indroductin of Phelia's pov.I thought this was actually quite important to the story.And I really felt for her,she's hopelessly in love with Dante and,as a result,finds herself caught up between two rival gangs.
This is extremely fast paced,talk about a page turner....I simply couldn't put it down.The sex scenes are not very explicit but I actually thought they worked here.Despite the strong physical attraction Clara and Dante have for each other I could feel that their relationship was becoming more than just sex.
The writing is superb.The Author gives us characters that are deeply flawed but I'm so invested in this story.I think the eventual outcome of their story will be epic.
Arc from Author
December 1, 2016
Genre: General Fiction/Romance
Type: Book 2 of 4 from Broken Lives series
POV: First Person - Multiple
Rating:
Clara Hatton knew it too well what her heart wanted could ruin everything she worked for - her marriage, her career, her life. But her bewitching student proved hard to resist even as she saw the devastation around her.
Dante Rata rather put people at arms length and stayed disconnected, except for the one he wanted. As his desire for Clara continued to grow, so did the fallout from the event involving his best friend. He knew what he wanted but getting it could be a lot harder than he could ever imagine.
I absolutely love Dante in Broken English and from the ending, I knew this book was going to be explosive. It really did shattered the easy peaceful nature of previous book.
Dante had a lot of issues to overcome in this one. Besides external issues, he still struggled with his personal demons. He's very fragile on the inside and I love seeing how people around him cared for him even if they went about it in the unconventional way.
Clara's life changed dramatically since Dante first caught her eyes. As her heart wanted more, she struggled with the morality of her actions. Still, for someone in her position she at times acted selfishly/childishly.
There were a lot of things going on throughout this (long) book. I like how there were a lot of actions and suspense elements but I also wish there were more emotional connections between them. And as much as I understand his age might be the reason, I wish there was a more elaborate sexy scenes to compensate the sexual tension between them.
I like the story overall and my love for Dante never wavered, but I felt the ending left too many questions unanswered especially considering the timeline for the next book.
Shattered Poetry is a story of a forbidden relationship, loyalty and sacrifices. The intense story would appeal to readers who like to experience a myriad of emotions to the very last page.
Books in the series:
♛ ✠ ♛ . . . (F)BR With The Shhluts . . . ♛ ✠ ♛
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 2 of 4 from Broken Lives series
POV: First Person - Multiple
Rating:
Clara Hatton knew it too well what her heart wanted could ruin everything she worked for - her marriage, her career, her life. But her bewitching student proved hard to resist even as she saw the devastation around her.
Dante Rata rather put people at arms length and stayed disconnected, except for the one he wanted. As his desire for Clara continued to grow, so did the fallout from the event involving his best friend. He knew what he wanted but getting it could be a lot harder than he could ever imagine.
I absolutely love Dante in Broken English and from the ending, I knew this book was going to be explosive. It really did shattered the easy peaceful nature of previous book.
I hated history, fucking hated everything to do with the past, because I kept repeating it, making the same mistakes over and over again, never fucking learning.
Dante had a lot of issues to overcome in this one. Besides external issues, he still struggled with his personal demons. He's very fragile on the inside and I love seeing how people around him cared for him even if they went about it in the unconventional way.
Like Eve, I’d tasted the forbidden fruit, but instead of taking one bite, I’d gorged myself on Dante, savouring his delicious flavour, until I had guilt smeared across my face and mind, something I could never wash off.
Clara's life changed dramatically since Dante first caught her eyes. As her heart wanted more, she struggled with the morality of her actions. Still, for someone in her position she at times acted selfishly/childishly.
There were a lot of things going on throughout this (long) book. I like how there were a lot of actions and suspense elements but I also wish there were more emotional connections between them. And as much as I understand his age might be the reason, I wish there was a more elaborate sexy scenes to compensate the sexual tension between them.
He was like a walking porno, everything he did extremely sexual.
I like the story overall and my love for Dante never wavered, but I felt the ending left too many questions unanswered especially considering the timeline for the next book.
I wanted to cocoon him in my arms, wiping away all his upset, as well as to protect him from more. But I couldn’t. No matter how much I wanted to.
Shattered Poetry is a story of a forbidden relationship, loyalty and sacrifices. The intense story would appeal to readers who like to experience a myriad of emotions to the very last page.
Books in the series:
♛ ✠ ♛ . . . (F)BR With The Shhluts . . . ♛ ✠ ♛
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
August 10, 2017
4 ★★★★ Stars
Genre: General Fiction/Romance
Type: Book 2 of 4 from Broken Lives series
POV: First Person – Multiple
Clara Hatton; conflicted with the new feeling and emotions she is feeling tries to deny what she is feeling for her student. She understands very well the consequences of her actions and somehow finds herself in the bridge of losing it all her marriage, her father who she only recently re united with and her career all for what she believes is love.
Dante Rata; so young and stubborn wants nothing more but to be loved truly love for who he is and not for his looks. He believed Clara was different he can't stop the feelings for her and he wants it so badly to be real. Clara's insecurities of what would happen to the both of them makes him angry and sad. He doesn't want to be a play toy one that woman just fantasies about he wants it to be true love but only with her.
In this book we got to see new characters that I learned to really love and some that I didn't care much for. The story is very fast pace and pretty addicting. However; I found myself getting so confused by so many things happening at once on the last thirty percent of the book. I feel like I wasn't able to focus trying to keep track of what was going on since there were at least three major things happening at once. I could have loved it more if there wasn't so much stuff happening. Also, I really liked how finally Clara and Dante put everything on the line for each other even though the age is a big deal I felt Clara wanted to truly understand him and truly cared for him when no one did. One small issue I had was their sexual intensity happened so fast I felt a bit cheated I didn't get the details about it when it actually happened. I am hoping that we get more action on the next two books.
Shattered Poetry is not for everyone; is a story of a forbidden relationship. It will test your boundaries and at points make you unconformable. The story is intense and readers who are not afraid to explore and experience lots of emotions would find this book appealing.
Books in the series:
. . . (F)BR With The Shhluts . . .
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Genre: General Fiction/Romance
Type: Book 2 of 4 from Broken Lives series
POV: First Person – Multiple
"He was wearing me down, making it harder to walk away. Every time he said something, did something, it drew me more and more into his web."
Clara Hatton; conflicted with the new feeling and emotions she is feeling tries to deny what she is feeling for her student. She understands very well the consequences of her actions and somehow finds herself in the bridge of losing it all her marriage, her father who she only recently re united with and her career all for what she believes is love.
"The boy created conflicting emotions in me, ones I didn't know how to deal with."
Dante Rata; so young and stubborn wants nothing more but to be loved truly love for who he is and not for his looks. He believed Clara was different he can't stop the feelings for her and he wants it so badly to be real. Clara's insecurities of what would happen to the both of them makes him angry and sad. He doesn't want to be a play toy one that woman just fantasies about he wants it to be true love but only with her.
"I wondered what it would be like to disappear like the smoke, leaving no trace behind. Here one second, gone the next."
In this book we got to see new characters that I learned to really love and some that I didn't care much for. The story is very fast pace and pretty addicting. However; I found myself getting so confused by so many things happening at once on the last thirty percent of the book. I feel like I wasn't able to focus trying to keep track of what was going on since there were at least three major things happening at once. I could have loved it more if there wasn't so much stuff happening. Also, I really liked how finally Clara and Dante put everything on the line for each other even though the age is a big deal I felt Clara wanted to truly understand him and truly cared for him when no one did. One small issue I had was their sexual intensity happened so fast I felt a bit cheated I didn't get the details about it when it actually happened. I am hoping that we get more action on the next two books.
Shattered Poetry is not for everyone; is a story of a forbidden relationship. It will test your boundaries and at points make you unconformable. The story is intense and readers who are not afraid to explore and experience lots of emotions would find this book appealing.
Books in the series:
. . . (F)BR With The Shhluts . . .
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
December 1, 2016
BROKEN LIVES GROUP | Shattered Poetry/Broken English BUDDY-READ | Jagged Pill | Broken English Giveaway (Open until 12/06/16)
Release Date: December 8, 2016
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Shattered Poetry is the action-packed sequel to Marita A. Hansen’s Broken English . Fasten your seatbelts because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.
Clara has given in. She and Dante have everything to lose if what they’ve done were discovered. Everything was now at risk: her career, her marriage, Dante’s education, their families, and their freedom. Caught in the middle of an impending gang war, the two must choose to run away from one another or towards each other.
I’m exhausted for this was such an intense read. Everything was happening at a very fast pace that I had to read it until five in the morning. I stopped everything that I was doing so I could focus on Clara and Dante. If you have not read Broken English yet, you have to read it very soon! This is one of the best student-teacher romances I’ve ever read.
Dante, my dearest Dante, was still caught up in an emotional battle with himself. He was still in denial of what has happened to him, trying to brave everything despite being truly broken. Of all the characters from the books I’ve read this year, Dante was the one who took my heart away and gripped it hard until it bled. I was so hurt for all that this boy had to endure at a young age. He did not deserve them and I wish I could just protect him from everyone who wants to get him. Everyone was treating him like an object they own. In Shattered Poetry, Dante was able express more of what he’s really feeling. He was like a dam about to burst.
As for Clara, I have mixed opinions towards her. There were times that I really liked her for finally being honest with Dante, but at the same time, she has irked me. I understand that their situation was dangerous for both of them and could utterly destroy their lives, but she was unconsciously contributing to hurting Dante more. I adore Dante greatly, so I find it difficult to be pleased by Clara’s selfish actions and decisions. There was this time that I really wanted to hit the woman in the head. It was when
Now, I would like to talk about the other characters that I really enjoyed reading about. First is Annabelle. That Scottish redhead was so cute and entertaining made me smile whenever she was in the scene. Back in Broken English, she was shy and she didn’t express herself with words that much. In this book, she became spunky and stubborn. She knew best to be there for Dante when she’s needed, even if he told her that he didn’t want her company. I would love to see more of her in the next books.
Next is Killer, whose real name is Painkiller. In Broken English, he was mentioned once by Beverly when she and Clara were talking about kids with odd names. He is Jasper’s uncle who was so unpredictable. There were times that he was so flirty and then the next he could be like a destructive kid. It was like he has a switch in his head. His mood does not change gradually but in an instant. He’s very surprising and curious. I want to know more about him!
I want to mention these two characters that were so mature: Markus and Clara’s father. Markus, in my opinion, is a really good husband. He cares for Clara the best that he could. You know that he’s a keeper. This shows that he was selfless. He deserves to be happy and to be loved faithfully.
As for Clara’s father, he has been very kind and understanding. He’s just there, waiting for his daughter. He’s also very kind to Sinh, his partner whom I think acted on things without thinking. Yes, besides Phelia and Ngaire, Sinh was one of those characters who I saw as an obstacle.
Do I even have to discuss how disgusting Phelia and Ngaire are? These two should just burn in hell. If I were to decide on what to happen to these two, I would have given them worse fates.
I don’t know if there could be a more perfect ending. I think how it concluded made so much sense and it was the only way out. I love it. I am very excited to see more of them in Jagged Pill. I would love to see a stronger and happier Dante and a more selfless Clara in the next books.
Lastly, I think Dante’s talents should not go to waste. I hope he could find a way to make use of his writing and singing.
I highly recommend this duet. Better check it out if you want a good taboo romance.
“There was no going back now.
I was his.
For better or for worse.”
Release Date: December 8, 2016
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Shattered Poetry is the action-packed sequel to Marita A. Hansen’s Broken English . Fasten your seatbelts because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.
Clara has given in. She and Dante have everything to lose if what they’ve done were discovered. Everything was now at risk: her career, her marriage, Dante’s education, their families, and their freedom. Caught in the middle of an impending gang war, the two must choose to run away from one another or towards each other.
I’m exhausted for this was such an intense read. Everything was happening at a very fast pace that I had to read it until five in the morning. I stopped everything that I was doing so I could focus on Clara and Dante. If you have not read Broken English yet, you have to read it very soon! This is one of the best student-teacher romances I’ve ever read.
Dante, my dearest Dante, was still caught up in an emotional battle with himself. He was still in denial of what has happened to him, trying to brave everything despite being truly broken. Of all the characters from the books I’ve read this year, Dante was the one who took my heart away and gripped it hard until it bled. I was so hurt for all that this boy had to endure at a young age. He did not deserve them and I wish I could just protect him from everyone who wants to get him. Everyone was treating him like an object they own. In Shattered Poetry, Dante was able express more of what he’s really feeling. He was like a dam about to burst.
As for Clara, I have mixed opinions towards her. There were times that I really liked her for finally being honest with Dante, but at the same time, she has irked me. I understand that their situation was dangerous for both of them and could utterly destroy their lives, but she was unconsciously contributing to hurting Dante more. I adore Dante greatly, so I find it difficult to be pleased by Clara’s selfish actions and decisions. There was this time that I really wanted to hit the woman in the head. It was when
Now, I would like to talk about the other characters that I really enjoyed reading about. First is Annabelle. That Scottish redhead was so cute and entertaining made me smile whenever she was in the scene. Back in Broken English, she was shy and she didn’t express herself with words that much. In this book, she became spunky and stubborn. She knew best to be there for Dante when she’s needed, even if he told her that he didn’t want her company. I would love to see more of her in the next books.
Next is Killer, whose real name is Painkiller. In Broken English, he was mentioned once by Beverly when she and Clara were talking about kids with odd names. He is Jasper’s uncle who was so unpredictable. There were times that he was so flirty and then the next he could be like a destructive kid. It was like he has a switch in his head. His mood does not change gradually but in an instant. He’s very surprising and curious. I want to know more about him!
I want to mention these two characters that were so mature: Markus and Clara’s father. Markus, in my opinion, is a really good husband. He cares for Clara the best that he could. You know that he’s a keeper. This shows that he was selfless. He deserves to be happy and to be loved faithfully.
As for Clara’s father, he has been very kind and understanding. He’s just there, waiting for his daughter. He’s also very kind to Sinh, his partner whom I think acted on things without thinking. Yes, besides Phelia and Ngaire, Sinh was one of those characters who I saw as an obstacle.
Do I even have to discuss how disgusting Phelia and Ngaire are? These two should just burn in hell. If I were to decide on what to happen to these two, I would have given them worse fates.
I don’t know if there could be a more perfect ending. I think how it concluded made so much sense and it was the only way out. I love it. I am very excited to see more of them in Jagged Pill. I would love to see a stronger and happier Dante and a more selfless Clara in the next books.
Lastly, I think Dante’s talents should not go to waste. I hope he could find a way to make use of his writing and singing.
I highly recommend this duet. Better check it out if you want a good taboo romance.
December 3, 2016
ARC(F)BR with shhluts on Shh…
ARC to be provided to me by author Marita Hansen in exchange for an honest review.
ARC(F)BR with shhluts on Shh…wow what a read even better tan book 1 full review release day
ARC to be provided to me by author Marita Hansen in exchange for an honest review.
I just loved evrything abought the read how we get to learn moor abought Annabelle(She is so bad ass), Phelia,Hemi felt sad abought what hapened to him in the end, though i agree with Sue, that it was Karma in away considering Jasper killed Happy Meals Mother infront of him. Theres also way moor action in this book and complicated reletionships we see way moor of both Rival Clubs and there inside Politics and reletionship between Dante and Clara becomes moor complicated with things getting slowly revealed, i dont know if anything woud work out of them running away, but it shere opens up moor avenius for the future plot and making it moor complex and abought Dante his a wanderfuly complex and flawed charecter so much like a fifteen year old and yet so mature for his age nd so traumatized
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2016
With the opening of Shattered Poetry, we are back with Dante and Clara right where Broken English ended, as they are immediately faced with the reality of their choices. As the adult, a married woman and person in a position of authority, Clara is conflicted in many ways with feelings toward her student, Dante. Acting in the moment and trying to hide their relationship the best she can, Clara continues on a certain destructive path.
“I’d gorged myself on Dante, savouring his delicious flavour, until I had guilt smeared across my face and mind, something I could never wash off.”
Dante’s world is one that is in a constant state of flux. Unfortunately, for Dante there isn’t much he can control due his age, upbringing, gang affiliation and past but now he seems to think he has the opportunity to finally get what he’s been seeking all along. Knowing his world doesn’t adhere to strict moral codes, Dante realizes his family is much more protective than he could have ever imagined.
“Although I needed money, I needed the last shred of my sanity more”
There are many outside elements affecting how Clara and Dante can proceed and it is tense with the killing of a gang member, a rival gang is looking to find the murderer leaving Dante as a prime suspect; Clara’s failing marriage; and high school jealousies ring high as Phelia vies for Dante’s attention and will lie to get it any way she can. Of course, the fear that Dante and Clara will be discovered is ever looming. As the title indicates, many lives are shattered and the question is whether Dante and Clara can reassemble the pieces.
“Ignoring my hand, he yanked me to him, wrapping his arms around me again. “We’re gonna be like Bonnie and Clyde.”
To say I had many emotions while reading this book would be accurate. Mostly, I was angry at Clara for a host of reasons but mainly because when she made a decision, it showed Clara’s character weakness and Dante’s best interest was compromised. Being that she was the adult, I did expect more from her while still acknowledging this is fiction and that people make big mistakes. Additionally, I wanted much more from the time Clara and Dante spent together.
With Dante, his character development remained steady and the shadows in his past became clearer. Staying true to his heart, Dante showed how he is quite vulnerable and his utter need to be unconditionally accepted. Reading how Dante's family had little boundaries yet truly fought for him was heartwarming. In fact, one particular character completely and unexpectedly redeemed himself to me when he had Dante’s well being at heart. The remaining secondary characters added to a tremendous plot footprint, bringing a range of dimension to the steady and well-choreographed narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed Shattered Poetry with all the tension, anger, despair, lust, love and immorality. Marita Hansen certainly crafted a menagerie of memorable characters that are simply human. As such, this author has solidified a place on my reading shelf and look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
The Broken Lives series is separated by two duets.
*An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
*This was an ARC (F)BR with the Shhluts read during Shh… Topick: Nov. 27: BUZZ Books! https://goo.gl/1DbB8k
February 5, 2017
Clara is falling in love with Dante no matter how hard she tried not to, her attraction is just too much to ignore this time. She knew the consequences of loving Dante it will be the end of her career, marriage & worse, she could end up in jail. So, she confronted Dante about it and made a commitment to each other to keep their relationship a secret. Dante agreed with what Clara suggested because he didn’t want anything bad to happen to her either.
Though Dante is a short tempered boy, when provoked or when things didn’t go his way, Clara knew how to make him listen to her. She talked or treated him way more mature than his age. They complement each other. My favorite scene between these two is when they went to Claydon, where they could escape from the prying eyes of the people and express their love for each other.
I wasn’t wrong when I said the Broken English was a start of a great series. Shattered Poetry offered more than I expected… star-crossed lovers passionate encounters… characters that you love to hate… family members saving each other from the rival gang… scenes that are action-packed that will keep on the edge of your seat as you read. I have no doubt that the best part is yet to come from Ms. Hansen and looking forward to what will happen to my favorite couple to date Dante & Clara! A beautiful story from an amazing author! Well done!!!
(f)BR with the ladies of Shh...
Note: ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!
March 27, 2018
My life is my poetry, my poetry is my life. A shattered collection of moments, filled with strife.
Book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off and again, I'm having mix feelings. Do I give it a 4* or 2* rating.
I still very much like to read about taboos but like book 1, again I struggled with the triple taboo:
1. teacher/student in a sexual relationship
2. underage student of 15 years and a 24 years old teacher
3. cheating since the teacher is married
I do believe Clara, being the adult, was the coward in this story. She often angered me and she, more than once, left Dante hanging, letting him get accused and being the difficult trouble kid.
Dante has a lot to deal with. He is the prime suspect of the murder of a rival gang member and is being hunted for by the rival gang and the police. With Phelia, a high school girl crushing heavily over Dante, willing to lie to win Dante affections things head up badly. Also at home Dante is confronted with too much that a kid has to deal with. There is only adult looking out and standing up for him was uncle Hemi and I do hope the author has a pleasant surprise for us (at least for me) in the next book. Although it is apparent that both his father, Tane, and his best friend, Jasper, love him unconditionally.
Dante keeps pursuing Clara and she can keep her control any more I didn't want him to stop, his mouth, my breast...my willpower hadn't just dissolved...it was shattered
Beautiful stolen moments for Dante & Clara and a life changing ending.
The writing was realistic and emotional, although IMO there was too much insignificant info that made the book too long. Does not mean that I am not looking forward to the next instalments and hope to be reading a lot more about the secondary characters. Will there be a Tane & Pain?
This book is part of the Broken Lives Series and has to be read in order:
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
by author Marita A. Hansen.
December 4, 2016
"Shattered poetry" was an intense read. It picks up right where "Broken English" left off. This book definitely exceeded my expectations. The author does a great job at sucking you right in the story.
We now see how Clara deals with her actions and her internal battle with doing what's right. In a sense I feel that she was much more brave in this book. She made a choice and was willing to deal with whatever came with it.
Dante was as cocky as ever. I feel we also saw another side to him. He had moments where his heart shone through his tough guy exterior. He has some serious issues to deal with. His traumatic past and experiences made my heart ache for him. It's easy to see why he is the way he is. Their relationship is morally wrong but I still found myself rooting for them.
We also see how the other characters in the story make choices that affect Clara and Dante immensely. It seems that everything is stacked against them. And I for one can't wait to see what comes next for them.
ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2016
FIVE BEAUTIFULLY SHATTERED STARS!!
When it came to this series, I was very vocal in the main reason why I started Broken English. There's just something about forbidden laced situations that always gets me excited. Eager to read how far one would go for a simple lick of the forbidden fruit. How desperate will one get when they finally got a sip? Just how far would they go to keep it within reach? The appealing thoughts rivals the hesitancy and I'm that angsty whore just waiting to see it all shatter to pieces.
Words couldn't express how excited I was when I saw this book popped up on my kindle! I was drunk on the previous book's ending and needed to drown more into Dante's self-loathing mind and Clara's confused heart all the same! I could have never imagined the roller-coaster this book would set me on! I thought I was prepared for a smooth sailing ride with the usual hiccups that'll have me giggling like an idiot, blushing like a virgin and smirking like a slut at every which turn.
I got so much more!
Dante is so much more than a pretty boy. As I read deeper into the book, already broken up from book one and what I feared to be the truth, I found myself hurting for Dante. He has such a light about him, a pureness that makes you want to touch him and get a taste of it, but at the same time, the thought of journeying towards it could very well corrupt you. Yes, Dante is a fucking contradiction. The vice around my heart kept tightening every time Dante said something negative about himself (which was alot). He had reached a point in his short life where he couldn't see beyond the rainy days. Hiding it behind his sarcasm and that fucking beauty of his was enough to stir unwanted attention his way. Yet even through it all, he found himself drawn even more to Clara.
For Dante, she was the perfect distraction from all the bad in his life. The things he couldn't change. But as he got to know her more - realize that she wasn't like the other females (no matter their age) - he started to feel something more. The way he would insult her, or act out when she did something that pisses him off really spoke about not only his age at times, but also how deeply he felt for her.
I like to think that with a contradiction like Dante, it all lies within his actions. I did get angry when he insulted her nevertheless, and I'm not making excuses for him, but that's his wall trying to go up. Clara needed to cuss his ass out more often but I suppose you're suppose to be patient...or some fuck like that I wouldn't do in this case :D
Clare had such an ignorant way about her. I felt that she was too soft in general. But with Dante, it'll take a blind person not to realize she felt something for him. I kept shouting at her to play it off on a more neutral level. The water was getting hot almost instantly and I knew everything was gonna boil over. But the way it was done, so effortlessly really spoke positively to the author and how she builds the fucking angst! I was dying to read more but scared to read at the same time!
For me, this book really honest to God wowed the fuck out of me. Like I said...I came for the forbidden indulgence. But I got so much more.
Everything that was happening around them, all because of Jasper's fucking recklessness! Dante went through a series of down - no fucking ups. Yet he held out. I love the glimpses where it showed how mature he was, but at the same time - the flickers where his real age shined really made this read that much more real. His fear of opening up to what Jasper's fucked up aunt was doing. The fear of going down for something he didn't do, but mature (or stupid) enough to not rat out his friend. The dedication he had to his family and the loyalty around those loved ones - even if they don't deserve it. I mean, fucking wow. You'd have to be dead and rotten to not feel something for Dante!
I expected to be hot and bothered with Dante and Clara's interaction (I got my feels =P) but I also bawled my fucking eyes out when everything blew up in the gang's face! I abso-fucking-lutely LOVE how unapologetic the men were.
Like - FUCK!!
The shit that Hemi did after Dante confided in him? I was both horny and scared! Then his love for Dante as a father? I wanted to hug the fucking bastard and still slap him for his threats. Each character had a side of them you loved as much as hated. There was no black and white with these motherfuckers. Hell even Happy Meal's dad got some love, and some major fucking hate from me.
Those men are amazing.
Killer was a good comic relief but there is so much more to him. The lives all these people live, just below the low and even lower really sheds light on how they are and why they're that way. The lecturers at the school and even the headmaster all live in this bubble away from the real shit that stains the world around their students and past students. It's real, it raw, it's fucking painful but so addictive all the same. The author did not sugar quote ANYTHING, nor did she pull any breaks. You got the brunt of it all, and while trying to recover from a particular blow? Bet your ass five more is coming at you, right after the other.
I really grew to love Phelia. I don't care what nobody says. Phelia is strong. That girl has been through at least 5 levels of hell! The way she got tormented by Jasper, the things she was subjected to by Happy Meals fucked upsexy motherfucking asshole father was... Man, she's just strong - and if I didn't get to dive into her POV I wouldn't have gotten to know her the way I do. I feel sad for her and her self-worth needs to go a little higher. Hopefully she gets a chance to grow and believe. But damn...
So much shit went down! I'm still mind blown and need more more fucking more! Lol
If you're looking for a taste of forbidden, come right along! This series would fill you up, but you'd be a glutton fuck and need more. Wanna get a deeper read? Touch the emotional basis of it all? Get the feel of helplessness, knowing you can't do nothing but read along and in a sense, be there for the character?
Need More Dante Rata?
Be done with this damn senseless ramble and go get the fucking book.
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2gmkpij
When it came to this series, I was very vocal in the main reason why I started Broken English. There's just something about forbidden laced situations that always gets me excited. Eager to read how far one would go for a simple lick of the forbidden fruit. How desperate will one get when they finally got a sip? Just how far would they go to keep it within reach? The appealing thoughts rivals the hesitancy and I'm that angsty whore just waiting to see it all shatter to pieces.
†He was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung, the apple from Eden – so delicious, yet morally wrong.†
Words couldn't express how excited I was when I saw this book popped up on my kindle! I was drunk on the previous book's ending and needed to drown more into Dante's self-loathing mind and Clara's confused heart all the same! I could have never imagined the roller-coaster this book would set me on! I thought I was prepared for a smooth sailing ride with the usual hiccups that'll have me giggling like an idiot, blushing like a virgin and smirking like a slut at every which turn.
I got so much more!
†“Whether it was woman or drugs, bitterness always followed, telling me nothing would, or ever could, be perfect.”†
Dante is so much more than a pretty boy. As I read deeper into the book, already broken up from book one and what I feared to be the truth, I found myself hurting for Dante. He has such a light about him, a pureness that makes you want to touch him and get a taste of it, but at the same time, the thought of journeying towards it could very well corrupt you. Yes, Dante is a fucking contradiction. The vice around my heart kept tightening every time Dante said something negative about himself (which was alot). He had reached a point in his short life where he couldn't see beyond the rainy days. Hiding it behind his sarcasm and that fucking beauty of his was enough to stir unwanted attention his way. Yet even through it all, he found himself drawn even more to Clara.
†“Want is the seed love grows out of.”†
†“But you do care for me, otherwise you’d be on t top of me, riding my cock, like the other chicks I’ve been with. They’re more interested in how I look on the outside than the ugliness in here.” He tapped his head.†
For Dante, she was the perfect distraction from all the bad in his life. The things he couldn't change. But as he got to know her more - realize that she wasn't like the other females (no matter their age) - he started to feel something more. The way he would insult her, or act out when she did something that pisses him off really spoke about not only his age at times, but also how deeply he felt for her.
†His upper lip twitched with agitation. “I am, everyone knows it. I’m an evil bastard, while you’re a horny bitch who can’t get enough of my underage cock."†
I like to think that with a contradiction like Dante, it all lies within his actions. I did get angry when he insulted her nevertheless, and I'm not making excuses for him, but that's his wall trying to go up. Clara needed to cuss his ass out more often but I suppose you're suppose to be patient...or some fuck like that I wouldn't do in this case :D
† “For me, obsession is the seed that my love grew from.”†
Clare had such an ignorant way about her. I felt that she was too soft in general. But with Dante, it'll take a blind person not to realize she felt something for him. I kept shouting at her to play it off on a more neutral level. The water was getting hot almost instantly and I knew everything was gonna boil over. But the way it was done, so effortlessly really spoke positively to the author and how she builds the fucking angst! I was dying to read more but scared to read at the same time!
†“I was an English teacher, a twenty-four-year old married woman, who’d just had sex with her fifteen-year-old student.”†
For me, this book really honest to God wowed the fuck out of me. Like I said...I came for the forbidden indulgence. But I got so much more.
Everything that was happening around them, all because of Jasper's fucking recklessness! Dante went through a series of down - no fucking ups. Yet he held out. I love the glimpses where it showed how mature he was, but at the same time - the flickers where his real age shined really made this read that much more real. His fear of opening up to what Jasper's fucked up aunt was doing. The fear of going down for something he didn't do, but mature (or stupid) enough to not rat out his friend. The dedication he had to his family and the loyalty around those loved ones - even if they don't deserve it. I mean, fucking wow. You'd have to be dead and rotten to not feel something for Dante!
I expected to be hot and bothered with Dante and Clara's interaction (I got my feels =P) but I also bawled my fucking eyes out when everything blew up in the gang's face! I abso-fucking-lutely LOVE how unapologetic the men were.
Like - FUCK!!
The shit that Hemi did after Dante confided in him? I was both horny and scared! Then his love for Dante as a father? I wanted to hug the fucking bastard and still slap him for his threats. Each character had a side of them you loved as much as hated. There was no black and white with these motherfuckers. Hell even Happy Meal's dad got some love, and some major fucking hate from me.
Those men are amazing.
Killer was a good comic relief but there is so much more to him. The lives all these people live, just below the low and even lower really sheds light on how they are and why they're that way. The lecturers at the school and even the headmaster all live in this bubble away from the real shit that stains the world around their students and past students. It's real, it raw, it's fucking painful but so addictive all the same. The author did not sugar quote ANYTHING, nor did she pull any breaks. You got the brunt of it all, and while trying to recover from a particular blow? Bet your ass five more is coming at you, right after the other.
I really grew to love Phelia. I don't care what nobody says. Phelia is strong. That girl has been through at least 5 levels of hell! The way she got tormented by Jasper, the things she was subjected to by Happy Meals fucked up
So much shit went down! I'm still mind blown and need more more fucking more! Lol
If you're looking for a taste of forbidden, come right along! This series would fill you up, but you'd be a glutton fuck and need more. Wanna get a deeper read? Touch the emotional basis of it all? Get the feel of helplessness, knowing you can't do nothing but read along and in a sense, be there for the character?
Need More Dante Rata?
†A shattered piece of poetry of a broken boy in a soon to be broken home.†
Be done with this damn senseless ramble and go get the fucking book.
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2gmkpij
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
January 23, 2017
Clara knows her attraction to Dante is wrong, he is her student but she can't stop herself from being drawn to him. She pushes him away because she knows her job, marriage & freedom are on the line if anyone was ever to find out what has happened between the two of them. Dante thinks Clara has used him like everyone else in his life has.... take what they want & then push him aside. So he lashes out the only way a 15-year knows how too, he tries to make her jealous. The push & pull between the two of them getting they both into close calls because they cannot stay away from each other. After Clara is caught leaving Dante's house by a relative of his, Clara becomes very frightened by what might happen because more people seem to be figuring out what is going on. When Clara finally does some soul searching she realizes she doesn't love her husband anymore but that she has fallen for Dante. But now that Dante's Uncle has threatened her she doesn't want to stay away from Dante. Meanwhile, a gang war is brewing & Dante is at the center of the controversy. As the both gangs gear toward a confrontation, Dante relies to heavily on someone he doesn't like to provide him with an alibi. Everything seems to implode & explode all at once. Clara's husband confronts her about her sleeping with one of her students. One gang attacks the other gang in an ambush starting a war. Will everyone walk away when the dust clears? Or will there be casualties? Will Clara see Dante again? Do Clara & Dante have a chance together?
This was an amazing follow up to Broken English the first book in this series. The subject matter is controversial & considered taboo for some so read with caution. The book centers around a 15-year student & his 23-year old teacher who have an affair. The young man is a mess with drug & alcohol problems & he is mixed up in gang life. He has had a rough go of it with a past that would make most cringe. But he uses it to be tough & not care what others think of him but he does care. She tries to see past the exterior & understand the person inside. Her wanting to help isn't always met with warmth but they are unable to stay away from each other. When she finally excepts the consequences of her actions then maybe she can move forward. This book is intended for mature readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Read Copy of this book.
This was an amazing follow up to Broken English the first book in this series. The subject matter is controversial & considered taboo for some so read with caution. The book centers around a 15-year student & his 23-year old teacher who have an affair. The young man is a mess with drug & alcohol problems & he is mixed up in gang life. He has had a rough go of it with a past that would make most cringe. But he uses it to be tough & not care what others think of him but he does care. She tries to see past the exterior & understand the person inside. Her wanting to help isn't always met with warmth but they are unable to stay away from each other. When she finally excepts the consequences of her actions then maybe she can move forward. This book is intended for mature readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Read Copy of this book.
December 8, 2016
4 stars!
"Shattered poetry" starts right after "Broken English" finishes and after what happens between Clara/ Dante everything seems to just blow up. New dramas and obstacles get in their way, Clara battling her conscious as her feelings for Dante grow. Dante trying to stay afloat when everything around him is getting out control there's also trouble with his dad's MC and their rivals, betrayal, lies, jealousy and conspiracies this book has it all.
I have read quite a few teacher/student books but I can honestly say this is one of the most original ones I've read. This is more than a forbidden love between Clara/ Dante it goes beyond them. Whats's right or wrong?! nothing is black or white but so many shades in between.
The relationship between Clara/Dante is tumultuous to say the least. Dante, is not your typical 15 yr old, he's lived through so much in his young life, gone through so much heartache and loss. Clara, was attracted to his physical beauty but I think she saw his vulnerability, the emotions he tried so hard to hide.
This second book was just as intense, never a dull moment, fast paced, intense, gritty and raw. Those last chapter were so intense had me swiping my kindle like a mad woman. I'm not a fan of series since somehow I lose interest between the waiting for the next book. Or just getting bored with the story line but no sir, there are exceptions to the rules and this one is my rule breaker for sure. That ending has left me ok for now, but I'm counting the days for the next duet. <3
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
"Shattered poetry" starts right after "Broken English" finishes and after what happens between Clara/ Dante everything seems to just blow up. New dramas and obstacles get in their way, Clara battling her conscious as her feelings for Dante grow. Dante trying to stay afloat when everything around him is getting out control there's also trouble with his dad's MC and their rivals, betrayal, lies, jealousy and conspiracies this book has it all.
I have read quite a few teacher/student books but I can honestly say this is one of the most original ones I've read. This is more than a forbidden love between Clara/ Dante it goes beyond them. Whats's right or wrong?! nothing is black or white but so many shades in between.
The relationship between Clara/Dante is tumultuous to say the least. Dante, is not your typical 15 yr old, he's lived through so much in his young life, gone through so much heartache and loss. Clara, was attracted to his physical beauty but I think she saw his vulnerability, the emotions he tried so hard to hide.
This second book was just as intense, never a dull moment, fast paced, intense, gritty and raw. Those last chapter were so intense had me swiping my kindle like a mad woman. I'm not a fan of series since somehow I lose interest between the waiting for the next book. Or just getting bored with the story line but no sir, there are exceptions to the rules and this one is my rule breaker for sure. That ending has left me ok for now, but I'm counting the days for the next duet. <3
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
December 6, 2016
“And Dante was pure temptation, everything about him sinfully erotic.”
I always love a good conflict. You know when something is so impossible and you don’t have any idea how anything could be resolved because there are so many things that are at play and touching would be like setting up a domino chain?
What I love about this book was that I kept guessing. Shattered Poetry takes off from that gut-wrenching ending in Broken English. Clara and Dante has only one goal in mind: how they could feed the hunger between them and give in to the lust that is constantly consuming them. But the situation they're in and the people around them are not in their favor and there comes the good conflict.
“How do you know if you love someone?”
Dante is still an enigma, a misunderstood boy with a different sense of perspective about life, people and relationships. He still has his issues but that he has grown so much more from Broken Lives, in my opinion. I think there's still some innocence left in him and the way he looks at things sometimes, but its convoluted by the things he grew up with. What am I glad is Dante finally standing for himself.
Clara, on the other hand, is consumed by guilt and lust and as she continues to struggles, the choices and decisions she made makes my heart skip a beat. Although, quite at some point I started hating her. Well, not really hate hate. The hate love kind of thing. It's complicated.
But my heart, it was actually torn with Markus' outburst. And yes, when he shouted what I felt about him? I felt scared and at the same time, pity.
This book does not only look into relationships and issues that are sometimes taken for granted by the society, but also looks closely to those unruly boys in school. Most of them are misunderstood and I felt for them, because well, all they wanted was attention and someone to listen to them. Clara, as a teacher, provided that to Dante. But her feelings went beyond what is socially acceptable. The struggle that she felt takes hold of you and keeps you on the precipice, never letting you fall.
This was a great story of love, betrayal and devotion, of innocence, danger and tragedy. A perfect mix that would keep you addicted, wanting for more fix!
“But that was the thing with her. I didn’t have to think when we were in the moment. I only had to feel. And the feeling was out of this world.”
Books in the series:
ღ . ღ .ღ. (F) BR with the Shhluts! .ღ. ღ . ღ
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January 6, 2019
A perfect way to end Shattered Poetry!!! I am still loving the "relationship" between Clara and Dante but it is a struggle for them. I couldn't enjoy it any more than I already do...
This book has everything you might want... love, danger, sex, fighting, family, gangs, betrayal, death/loss, sadness and romance. I'm sure I could've thought of more but you get the idea. Everything. The ride was exciting and I don't want it to be over. However, I am starting book three, immediately, and I KNOW it's gonna be about consequences.
This book has everything you might want... love, danger, sex, fighting, family, gangs, betrayal, death/loss, sadness and romance. I'm sure I could've thought of more but you get the idea. Everything. The ride was exciting and I don't want it to be over. However, I am starting book three, immediately, and I KNOW it's gonna be about consequences.
April 30, 2017
I want book 3!!!
February 7, 2017
Very interesting, different. Marita has her own voice, her own way of storytelling and I love how she takes risks in the storylines she weaves.
March 26, 2018
4 Shattered Stars
This book trumps book 1 in its creation. This book is written better and is easier to connect with. We still have a great teacher student taboo happening but there is so much more than that in this story. This book is about family, secrets, murder, gang war, gang trauma, betrayal and heartache.
This book is not rainbows and roses. This book is raw.
This book is about lust and broken people
he was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung, the apple from Eden- so delicious, yet morally wrong. Like Eve, I’d tasted the forbidden fruit, but instead of taking one bite, I’d gorged myself on Dante
I loved how in the book our characters are still developing. We start tying the loose ends together and thinks start making more sense. It ends it quite the cliffhanger but I think that’s an impressive feat for any author…to piss off the readers because they need MORE!
If you sleep with me don’t dream, it will end in a happily-ever-after
I am so thankful to the author and my amazing friends in SHH for granting me the opportunity to read this book.
This book trumps book 1 in its creation. This book is written better and is easier to connect with. We still have a great teacher student taboo happening but there is so much more than that in this story. This book is about family, secrets, murder, gang war, gang trauma, betrayal and heartache.
This book is not rainbows and roses. This book is raw.
This book is about lust and broken people
he was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung, the apple from Eden- so delicious, yet morally wrong. Like Eve, I’d tasted the forbidden fruit, but instead of taking one bite, I’d gorged myself on Dante
I loved how in the book our characters are still developing. We start tying the loose ends together and thinks start making more sense. It ends it quite the cliffhanger but I think that’s an impressive feat for any author…to piss off the readers because they need MORE!
If you sleep with me don’t dream, it will end in a happily-ever-after
I am so thankful to the author and my amazing friends in SHH for granting me the opportunity to read this book.
December 9, 2016
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*ARC*
When I started Shattered Poetry I was so excited to continue reading about Dante and Clara, and yes if you have not read Broken English you need to prior to starting Shattered Poetry. That excitement ever so slowly started to slip until it hit is this book EVER going to end territory. On one hand I wanted to know what was going to happen not only to Dante and Clara but with everyone else as well. But on the other hand I started to get bored the storyline dragged on and on with some unnecessary drama cause by you guessed it immature characters, and yes I am well aware that this is a book set in high school but this bitch, and no there is no other way to describe Phelia as anything but a bitch takes the cake. As well as plot lines that are left unresolved I just am not sure what to think. I am torn; I don’t know if I hated or loved Shattered Poetry, then to add to it even going in I knew there was going to be a third and fourth part that is supposed to be when they are older but we are basically left hanging with an ending that sort of just cuts off, I can’t even really say that it is a cliffhanger but in reality it is. While there were parts that I did love there were equal parts that I just hated. I don’t know if I will continue on reading this series or not, it will all depend on my mood when they release but I won’t that final nail in the coffin just yet, but right at this moment I can’t say either way.
*ARC*
When I started Shattered Poetry I was so excited to continue reading about Dante and Clara, and yes if you have not read Broken English you need to prior to starting Shattered Poetry. That excitement ever so slowly started to slip until it hit is this book EVER going to end territory. On one hand I wanted to know what was going to happen not only to Dante and Clara but with everyone else as well. But on the other hand I started to get bored the storyline dragged on and on with some unnecessary drama cause by you guessed it immature characters, and yes I am well aware that this is a book set in high school but this bitch, and no there is no other way to describe Phelia as anything but a bitch takes the cake. As well as plot lines that are left unresolved I just am not sure what to think. I am torn; I don’t know if I hated or loved Shattered Poetry, then to add to it even going in I knew there was going to be a third and fourth part that is supposed to be when they are older but we are basically left hanging with an ending that sort of just cuts off, I can’t even really say that it is a cliffhanger but in reality it is. While there were parts that I did love there were equal parts that I just hated. I don’t know if I will continue on reading this series or not, it will all depend on my mood when they release but I won’t that final nail in the coffin just yet, but right at this moment I can’t say either way.
December 16, 2016
As Dante and Clara's relationship takes a turn for more seriousness between the two, Clara finds herself making poor decisions and being more reckless with every encounter with Dante. He just pushes her buttons, and he's so beautifully attractive that she just can't help herself. Dante, though, wants her to make a decision and stop treating him like a child with all the back and forth that she possesses. Will she stay with her husband or finally come to terms that her future is with Dante??
This installment finds both rival gangs finally breaking. And, the outcome is devastating. Tears were shed and important characters were eliminated. It was a sad and painful reality. Heartbreaking actually! More drama ensued in school causing actions to take place that affected quite a few individuals. Lies were told. And, for some, the truth that was eventually revealed had devastating consequences.
I wouldn't say that this was a HEA ending, but more a HFN ending. The author leaves the door open for Clara and Dante's story to continue into the future. While this was an amazing addition to the series, I'm really looking forward to what Ms. Hansen pulls out of her hat to further entertain me as a reader!
This installment finds both rival gangs finally breaking. And, the outcome is devastating. Tears were shed and important characters were eliminated. It was a sad and painful reality. Heartbreaking actually! More drama ensued in school causing actions to take place that affected quite a few individuals. Lies were told. And, for some, the truth that was eventually revealed had devastating consequences.
I wouldn't say that this was a HEA ending, but more a HFN ending. The author leaves the door open for Clara and Dante's story to continue into the future. While this was an amazing addition to the series, I'm really looking forward to what Ms. Hansen pulls out of her hat to further entertain me as a reader!
December 18, 2016
I can't get enough of Dante and Clara's story.
Its a forbidden love, but its a love that you cannot help but cheer for. I devoured this book haha! I couldn't get enough, and after reading it the first time, i started over, again, and again! The book doesn't end with a cliffhanger, but for me it mights as well have ended like that. I was first introduced to Dante in the Broken lives series, but after learning that, he was in fact in another series called Behind the lives, i had to read that one also.
But yes needless to say, that they reason i fall in love with this book, was because of Dante. Not only Dante, but the whole environment that this story is set in.
Really looking forward, to Jagged pill, hopefully i don't have to wait that long for it.
Its a forbidden love, but its a love that you cannot help but cheer for. I devoured this book haha! I couldn't get enough, and after reading it the first time, i started over, again, and again! The book doesn't end with a cliffhanger, but for me it mights as well have ended like that. I was first introduced to Dante in the Broken lives series, but after learning that, he was in fact in another series called Behind the lives, i had to read that one also.
But yes needless to say, that they reason i fall in love with this book, was because of Dante. Not only Dante, but the whole environment that this story is set in.
Really looking forward, to Jagged pill, hopefully i don't have to wait that long for it.
October 1, 2018
While I'm still not completely on board with Clara, at least she is owning up to her part of the situation....especially when she was confronted by her husband and her father. Dante, poor Dante. This kid couldn't possibly take another thing on in his life! There's so much going on in this book, and Dante said it best when he said everything happens because of him...I'm 100% believing that.
Annabelle has turned into some quite special and dear to me, especially when she went after Phelia and put that skank in her place. She's been giving a strong personality and left hook to go with it! We learned that Tane didn't fall far from the tree (manwhore like his momma was a whore). And what is it with the adults in this book? They are all completely clueless and running about conducting themselves as if they are teenagers!
Of course I'm going to carry on with this series, two very long overly informative books down...two to go...
Annabelle has turned into some quite special and dear to me, especially when she went after Phelia and put that skank in her place. She's been giving a strong personality and left hook to go with it! We learned that Tane didn't fall far from the tree (manwhore like his momma was a whore). And what is it with the adults in this book? They are all completely clueless and running about conducting themselves as if they are teenagers!
Of course I'm going to carry on with this series, two very long overly informative books down...two to go...
November 28, 2016
I thought Broken English was amazing, but Shattered Poetry BLEW ME AWAY.
It picked up immediately after Broken English left off. I was on the edge of my seat the ENTIRE time. Especially with the added third POV to the mix. It was absolutely packed with secrets, lies, action, and MORE. Tears were definitely shed!!
I'm waiting not so patiently for the story of Clara and Dante to continue. I'll settle for whatever Marita releases next though. ;) I now have a new favorite author.
December 4, 2016
The second book in the Broken Lives series picks up right where the first book ended and I loved that. Once more Clara is battling her attraction to Dante, her underage student. She knows it is wrong to want him, to keep thinking about him, but her pull to him is even stronger. Her thoughts are filled with him and she is unable to stop them. Her feelings that she has no control over scares her and rightly so. Marita A. Hansen does an excellent job in playing out Clara's moral compass.
Dante is back and he wants Clara more than ever now that he has had a taste of her. He's drawn to her and he wants more than just sex from her, he genuinely likes her, and his intense feelings for his sexy as hell teacher confuses him. Like Clara, Dante also can't stop thinking about her, she consumes his mind, and he won't allow Clara to brush him off, to deny wants happening between them.
Dante is funny to me and has a great sense of humor. I couldn't stop laughing at some of things that came out of his mouth. Also like Clara, Dante do have a way with words and how he says them. I can understand Clara's fascination with his vocabulary.
Clara and Dante shouldn't be left alone together as that ignites chaos and some of the best sexual chemistry that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Dante and Clara are scorching. I literally had to cool down by drinking a glass of ice water to bring myself back under control. These two can't stay away from one another, it is impossible. They are so intense, their looks, their uncontrollable kisses, and their words just kept drawing me under their spell.
I especially liked how Dante kept chipping away at Clara's defenses, she simply couldn't help herself. She was addicted to Dante and confused about her attraction to such a younger boy who was not only her student, but underage as well. I wouldn't want to be in her sticky situation. Clara and Dante wasn't just physically in tune with each other, but they shared a much deeper connection as their lust gave way to real emotions that blossomed into love.
The relationship between Clara and Dante wasn't the only thing that made this book unbelievably good but the other characters and action as well. Liked how we, the readers were reintroduced to Jasper, Phelia and Tane, and Hemi along with some others that were mentioned in the first Broken Lives book. Marita A. Hansen does an amazing job writing this book and delivering a compelling story. I was able to feel so many emotions and I loved that. I love when an author can capture their readers attention so effortlessly and Marita A. Hansen does that with Shattered Poetry. I honestly didn't want this book to end but it did and now I can't wait for the next one, Jagged Pill.
I did receive this ARC by the author in hopes that I will review it and give an honest review
Dante is back and he wants Clara more than ever now that he has had a taste of her. He's drawn to her and he wants more than just sex from her, he genuinely likes her, and his intense feelings for his sexy as hell teacher confuses him. Like Clara, Dante also can't stop thinking about her, she consumes his mind, and he won't allow Clara to brush him off, to deny wants happening between them.
Dante is funny to me and has a great sense of humor. I couldn't stop laughing at some of things that came out of his mouth. Also like Clara, Dante do have a way with words and how he says them. I can understand Clara's fascination with his vocabulary.
Clara and Dante shouldn't be left alone together as that ignites chaos and some of the best sexual chemistry that I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Dante and Clara are scorching. I literally had to cool down by drinking a glass of ice water to bring myself back under control. These two can't stay away from one another, it is impossible. They are so intense, their looks, their uncontrollable kisses, and their words just kept drawing me under their spell.
I especially liked how Dante kept chipping away at Clara's defenses, she simply couldn't help herself. She was addicted to Dante and confused about her attraction to such a younger boy who was not only her student, but underage as well. I wouldn't want to be in her sticky situation. Clara and Dante wasn't just physically in tune with each other, but they shared a much deeper connection as their lust gave way to real emotions that blossomed into love.
The relationship between Clara and Dante wasn't the only thing that made this book unbelievably good but the other characters and action as well. Liked how we, the readers were reintroduced to Jasper, Phelia and Tane, and Hemi along with some others that were mentioned in the first Broken Lives book. Marita A. Hansen does an amazing job writing this book and delivering a compelling story. I was able to feel so many emotions and I loved that. I love when an author can capture their readers attention so effortlessly and Marita A. Hansen does that with Shattered Poetry. I honestly didn't want this book to end but it did and now I can't wait for the next one, Jagged Pill.
I did receive this ARC by the author in hopes that I will review it and give an honest review
December 11, 2018
Dear god. Hold on tight because this read is all the frick over the place. Your brain my just explode from the angst and the crazy ass gang memebers ... it's just so crazy. I still can't get my head around the H being with a 15 year old. It's just throwing me off.
February 2, 2021
There was so. Much. Drama. Like Tijan level if drama. I loved every minute of it.
December 8, 2016
Clara Hatton knows that she has just made the biggest mistake of her life. It could cost her everything – her job, her marriage and even her freedom.
Even knowing all of this, she can’t stay away from Dante.
Now she’s torn between protecting him from the violence that surrounds him every day and openly loving the boy with the heart of a man.
I knew damn well having sex with Dante would lead to bad things. The ephemeral moments of pleasure were always going to be tainted with the bitter aftertaste of fear and guilt. He was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung, the apple from Eden— so delicious, yet morally wrong. Like Eve, I’d tasted the forbidden fruit, but instead of taking one bite, I’d gorged myself on Dante, savouring his delicious flavour, until I had guilt smeared across my face and mind, something I could never wash off.
Dante Rata is no one’s mistake. Clara may think that she can just forget about what they shared and sweep him under the rug – She couldn’t be more wrong.
He’s going to remind her of how much they need each other and of the inferno that threatens to engulf them every time that they touch. Nothing is going to keep them apart. If he can just stay alive long enough to prove to her that he may only be fifteen years old, but the heart that longs for her is fierce.
“How do you know if you love someone?” he asked.
I spun around, his words coming out of the blue. “Why would you ask that?” I said, the sudden change in topic catching me off guard, his words startling me.
He dropped his gaze and started picking at the frayed ends of his muscle shirt. “I used to think I loved my first girlfriend.” He glanced up, his expression almost shy. “Until I met you.”
Shattered Poetry is nothing like I expected! It was a wild ride through pain, yearning, lies and acceptance. Marita continues to dazzle with her hard-hitting writing style and unconventional subject matter.
This isn’t a story for the weak of heart. It’s for those who refuse to be defined by convention and those who aren’t afraid to love with everything that they are…
Even knowing all of this, she can’t stay away from Dante.
Now she’s torn between protecting him from the violence that surrounds him every day and openly loving the boy with the heart of a man.
I knew damn well having sex with Dante would lead to bad things. The ephemeral moments of pleasure were always going to be tainted with the bitter aftertaste of fear and guilt. He was the sweet taste of honey before the bee stung, the apple from Eden— so delicious, yet morally wrong. Like Eve, I’d tasted the forbidden fruit, but instead of taking one bite, I’d gorged myself on Dante, savouring his delicious flavour, until I had guilt smeared across my face and mind, something I could never wash off.
Dante Rata is no one’s mistake. Clara may think that she can just forget about what they shared and sweep him under the rug – She couldn’t be more wrong.
He’s going to remind her of how much they need each other and of the inferno that threatens to engulf them every time that they touch. Nothing is going to keep them apart. If he can just stay alive long enough to prove to her that he may only be fifteen years old, but the heart that longs for her is fierce.
“How do you know if you love someone?” he asked.
I spun around, his words coming out of the blue. “Why would you ask that?” I said, the sudden change in topic catching me off guard, his words startling me.
He dropped his gaze and started picking at the frayed ends of his muscle shirt. “I used to think I loved my first girlfriend.” He glanced up, his expression almost shy. “Until I met you.”
Shattered Poetry is nothing like I expected! It was a wild ride through pain, yearning, lies and acceptance. Marita continues to dazzle with her hard-hitting writing style and unconventional subject matter.
This isn’t a story for the weak of heart. It’s for those who refuse to be defined by convention and those who aren’t afraid to love with everything that they are…
December 26, 2016
Because I waited until book 2 was released before starting the Broken Lives series, the transition from Broken English to Shattered Poetry was seamless. At the end of Broken English, author Marita A. Hansen left me breathless with Dante and Clara throwing caution to the wind and giving into their desires. It wasn't until the deed was done, the "adult" in the sitiuation began to think about the consequences which brings us to Shattered Poetry.
Reading Shattered Poetry was like peeling back an onion. Not only was more information uncovered on Dante but on other characters as well. I found Hemi's backstory to be endearing and Killer to be a fun all around character. It also showcased the vulnerability and age difference between Dante and Clara.
While Shattered Poetry took me on a more intense emotional ride of secrets, consequences, and survival statics, I was let down by many of the adults in this book that are suppose to protect children. Even though I was let down in this area, Shattered Poetry is still a worthy read I rate 4.5 stars and I look forward to book 3.
Reading Shattered Poetry was like peeling back an onion. Not only was more information uncovered on Dante but on other characters as well. I found Hemi's backstory to be endearing and Killer to be a fun all around character. It also showcased the vulnerability and age difference between Dante and Clara.
While Shattered Poetry took me on a more intense emotional ride of secrets, consequences, and survival statics, I was let down by many of the adults in this book that are suppose to protect children. Even though I was let down in this area, Shattered Poetry is still a worthy read I rate 4.5 stars and I look forward to book 3.
April 24, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
Before Reading:
- But it wasn't just his looks that fascinated me. It was his energy, his whole verve, which ranged from cheeky to mournful to absolutely captivating. At times his dark eyes almost glowed with a supernatural energy, the life within him so much more magnetic than anyone else I'd know.
- "Want is the seed love grows out of."
Before Reading:
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