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Imperfect Heroes #3
Beneath Broken
He's a clean-cut cop who loves a good challenge. She's a smart executive with no interest in falling in love. It won't take long for the flames of desire to scorch them both, forcing them to either douse the blaze, or succumb to the fire. MASON I don't give up easily. My personality and training taught me that failure is not an option, and getting the attention of the beautiful executive president Harper Mathis is going to be my biggest challenge yet. But first I've got to find out why she's so withdrawn. A woman that stunning must have secrets and I'm going to find out what's hiding behind those baby blue eyes of hers. She'll quickly see how much I love a good game of chase. HARPER I've gone through hell and am not ashamed to admit that I'm broken. Damaged goods. Used up and empty. I want nothing to do with men or love, especially not a cop and a veteran - one who puts his life in danger every day. I've been there, done that, and my heart has no interest in someone like Detective Mason Oliver. Even if he's the hottest thing I've laid eyes on in a very long time. I get the feeling Mason always gets what he wants, though. Well, he hasn't seen my stubborn side.
324 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2016
21 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Pinard
97 books481 followersC.J. is a USA Today bestselling author living in Colorado but wishes she was someplace warmer. She loves the SF 49ers and has a weakness for expensive shoes. She’s the author of over 40 novels and short stories that contain both fantasy and paranormal romance with kickass heroines and strong alphas. Having recently retired from a twenty-year career in federal law enforcement, she's looking forward to the next chapter in life.
She can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and on her website, cjpinard.com.
You can also find billionaire romance under her pen, Carolyn Delaney.
Reading order:
URBAN FANTASY/ROMANCE:
Enchanted Immortals 1
Enchanted Immortals 2: The Vortex
Enchanted Immortals 3: The Vampyre
Enchanted Immortals 4: The Vixen
BSI: Bureau of Supernatural Investigation
Enchanted Immortals Box Set: 4 Books + Novella
PARANORMAL ROMANCE:
Unscathed (A paranormal romance novel with Tim O'Rourke)
Soul Rebel (Death's Kiss #1) FREE
Soul Redemption (Death's Kiss #2)
Soul Release (Death's Kiss #3)
Kovah: Soul Seeker (A Death's Kiss Novel #4)
Lotus (Daughter of Darkness) Lotus's Journey Part I FREE
Watcher (Daughter of Darkness) Lotus's Journey, Part II
Guardian (Daughter of Darkness) Lotus's Journey, Part III
The Lunar Effect (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #1) FREE
The Lunar Curse (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #2)
The Lunar Secret (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #3)
The Lunar Magic (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #4)
The Lunar Promise (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #5)
The Lunar Light (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #6)
Viper (Nighthawks MC #1)
Shadow (Nighthawks MC #2)
Phoenix (Nighthawks MC #3)
Venom (Nighthawks MC #4)
Face (Nighthawks MC #5)
REVERSE HAREM FANTASY:
Four Princes (Rothhaven Trilogy, #1)
Four Kings (Rothhaven Trilogy, #2)
Four Heirs (Rothhaven Trilogy, #3)
CONTEMPORARY/MILITARY ROMANCE
Duty & Desire Series:
Patriotic Duty
Tour of Duty
Boots Beneath My Bed
Playing the Field
Imperfect Heroes Series:
Antihero
Above Protection
Beneath Broken
Beyond Love
CONTACT INFO
Find me: http://cjpinard.com/
Like me: https://www.facebook.com/CJPinardAuthor
Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/c.j._pinard
Tweet me: https://twitter.com/CJPinard
Join me: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CJPin...
Add me: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Read less
She can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and on her website, cjpinard.com.
You can also find billionaire romance under her pen, Carolyn Delaney.
Reading order:
URBAN FANTASY/ROMANCE:
Enchanted Immortals 1
Enchanted Immortals 2: The Vortex
Enchanted Immortals 3: The Vampyre
Enchanted Immortals 4: The Vixen
BSI: Bureau of Supernatural Investigation
Enchanted Immortals Box Set: 4 Books + Novella
PARANORMAL ROMANCE:
Unscathed (A paranormal romance novel with Tim O'Rourke)
Soul Rebel (Death's Kiss #1) FREE
Soul Redemption (Death's Kiss #2)
Soul Release (Death's Kiss #3)
Kovah: Soul Seeker (A Death's Kiss Novel #4)
Lotus (Daughter of Darkness) Lotus's Journey Part I FREE
Watcher (Daughter of Darkness) Lotus's Journey, Part II
Guardian (Daughter of Darkness) Lotus's Journey, Part III
The Lunar Effect (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #1) FREE
The Lunar Curse (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #2)
The Lunar Secret (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #3)
The Lunar Magic (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #4)
The Lunar Promise (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #5)
The Lunar Light (The Ayla St. John Chronicles, #6)
Viper (Nighthawks MC #1)
Shadow (Nighthawks MC #2)
Phoenix (Nighthawks MC #3)
Venom (Nighthawks MC #4)
Face (Nighthawks MC #5)
REVERSE HAREM FANTASY:
Four Princes (Rothhaven Trilogy, #1)
Four Kings (Rothhaven Trilogy, #2)
Four Heirs (Rothhaven Trilogy, #3)
CONTEMPORARY/MILITARY ROMANCE
Duty & Desire Series:
Patriotic Duty
Tour of Duty
Boots Beneath My Bed
Playing the Field
Imperfect Heroes Series:
Antihero
Above Protection
Beneath Broken
Beyond Love
CONTACT INFO
Find me: http://cjpinard.com/
Like me: https://www.facebook.com/CJPinardAuthor
Follow me: https://www.instagram.com/c.j._pinard
Tweet me: https://twitter.com/CJPinard
Join me: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CJPin...
Add me: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Read less
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 3, 2016
Harper was the best part about this story. Her struggle to overcome the death of her husband was really well written. Full Review on The Book Disciple
July 27, 2016
C.J. Pinard has provided us with a new beautiful, military romance with Beneath Broken. The characters and storyline will reach any romance fan in a very natural way, being written with a perfect balance of tragedy, romance and suspense. Beneath Broken is certainly my favourite of the series so far!
The second book of the Imperfect Heroes series, Beneath Broken, brings us two new love interests to follow in Mason and Harper. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and feel that it is even stronger than the first of the series, Above Protection. Mason and Harper are perfect for each other, and despite their fears and doubts, the story is written extremely well whereby the characters are so compatible in a very realistic way.
For the best part of 18 months or more Harper Mathis has been spending her evenings watching bad tv and eating ice cream since the death of her military husband, Keith. It takes all the energy she has to go to work, but her private life has hit rock bottom. If it wasn’t for her best friend, Adria, dragging her to the gym some evenings she really wouldn’t be doing anything with her personal time, apart from wallowing. Adria is the one person she can truly depend upon.
“… Adria, she was still here when everyone else had left and things were dark and ugly, when all the other friends had disappeared. She was a true friend, and had proved it.”
Her job, working at the company that Keith and herself had set up, helping veterans ‘find jobs, get counselling, and reintegrate back into society’ was the one area of her life she gave her all to; partly in remembrance for her husband, and partly to help these courageous guys at a very sensitive point in their life. And, when her non-profit organization is targeted by a thief it is Detectives Oliver and Jenkins that arrive to investigate the situation.
The story is told from both Harper and Mason’s point of view. I am a fan of this style as the reader can understand the thoughts and actions of the main characters in this way. While Harper is still grieving and extremely low, Detective Mason Oliver, ex military himself, has his own demons to deal with. One of which was his last love. He has a way of dealing with his anger issues with his detective partner at the gym when they spar (sometimes quite aggressively).
However, both Harper and Mason find something else to keep their minds occupied after their first meet… each other. A little unsure at first just how the other sees them, it isn’t too long before they begin to spend more and more time together. Mason is aware that Harper is holding back. Meanwhile, Harper begins to go on an emotional rollercoaster; feeling a sense of happiness when with Mason, and yet with this comes guilt. Mason handles the situation well, in my opinion, by giving her the space she needs even though he isn’t aware of her situation to begin with. Although being urged to almost throw himself at her by his partner, Jenkins, Mason treats her with respect and patience, whilst still being attentive. The balance is perfect.
One of my favourite aspects of Beneath Broken is how the author has written Harper’s feelings towards her deceased husband, Keith. Even as the story progresses and Harper appears to be moving on from the death of him at times, there is still a connection that she has with her memories of him as well as good contact with his family. This , above all other areas of the story, really stands out and struck a nerve with me as being extremely real. It reads quite natural as one would expect a friend of theirs to deal with a situation like this in exactly the same way. We read about the guilt, the awkwardness and the doubt that Harper feels when she thinks of being with Mason. Is she betraying Keith? His family?
Beneath Broken is ultimately a story of strength and love. The strength of a woman to deal with the death of a loved one. To be able to love again. And also, to support a friend who has always been supportive of her through thick and thin. I cannot wait to read the next in the series as we follow Harper’s best friend, Adria, who was a strong character in this story and provided Harper with the rock she really needed to lean on. I’d certainly recommend this read for any romance fan.
A copy of Beneath Broken was provided by the author in return for a fair and honest review.
The second book of the Imperfect Heroes series, Beneath Broken, brings us two new love interests to follow in Mason and Harper. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and feel that it is even stronger than the first of the series, Above Protection. Mason and Harper are perfect for each other, and despite their fears and doubts, the story is written extremely well whereby the characters are so compatible in a very realistic way.
For the best part of 18 months or more Harper Mathis has been spending her evenings watching bad tv and eating ice cream since the death of her military husband, Keith. It takes all the energy she has to go to work, but her private life has hit rock bottom. If it wasn’t for her best friend, Adria, dragging her to the gym some evenings she really wouldn’t be doing anything with her personal time, apart from wallowing. Adria is the one person she can truly depend upon.
“… Adria, she was still here when everyone else had left and things were dark and ugly, when all the other friends had disappeared. She was a true friend, and had proved it.”
Her job, working at the company that Keith and herself had set up, helping veterans ‘find jobs, get counselling, and reintegrate back into society’ was the one area of her life she gave her all to; partly in remembrance for her husband, and partly to help these courageous guys at a very sensitive point in their life. And, when her non-profit organization is targeted by a thief it is Detectives Oliver and Jenkins that arrive to investigate the situation.
The story is told from both Harper and Mason’s point of view. I am a fan of this style as the reader can understand the thoughts and actions of the main characters in this way. While Harper is still grieving and extremely low, Detective Mason Oliver, ex military himself, has his own demons to deal with. One of which was his last love. He has a way of dealing with his anger issues with his detective partner at the gym when they spar (sometimes quite aggressively).
However, both Harper and Mason find something else to keep their minds occupied after their first meet… each other. A little unsure at first just how the other sees them, it isn’t too long before they begin to spend more and more time together. Mason is aware that Harper is holding back. Meanwhile, Harper begins to go on an emotional rollercoaster; feeling a sense of happiness when with Mason, and yet with this comes guilt. Mason handles the situation well, in my opinion, by giving her the space she needs even though he isn’t aware of her situation to begin with. Although being urged to almost throw himself at her by his partner, Jenkins, Mason treats her with respect and patience, whilst still being attentive. The balance is perfect.
One of my favourite aspects of Beneath Broken is how the author has written Harper’s feelings towards her deceased husband, Keith. Even as the story progresses and Harper appears to be moving on from the death of him at times, there is still a connection that she has with her memories of him as well as good contact with his family. This , above all other areas of the story, really stands out and struck a nerve with me as being extremely real. It reads quite natural as one would expect a friend of theirs to deal with a situation like this in exactly the same way. We read about the guilt, the awkwardness and the doubt that Harper feels when she thinks of being with Mason. Is she betraying Keith? His family?
Beneath Broken is ultimately a story of strength and love. The strength of a woman to deal with the death of a loved one. To be able to love again. And also, to support a friend who has always been supportive of her through thick and thin. I cannot wait to read the next in the series as we follow Harper’s best friend, Adria, who was a strong character in this story and provided Harper with the rock she really needed to lean on. I’d certainly recommend this read for any romance fan.
A copy of Beneath Broken was provided by the author in return for a fair and honest review.
July 20, 2016
♡♡Reviewed for CherryOBlossoms Promotions ♡ ♡
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
I have a special place in my heart for our miltary and the stories that authors write about them. This book was a emotional roller coaster for me. I laughed, cried and was heart broken. The storyline will tug at your heartstrings. I absolutely loved Mason and Harper and thank goodness Mason had the patience with Harper.
Mason is a vet, a detective, and is a hottie. Harper is a widow, runs a business for vets, and is trying to get on with her life. Harper husband was killed in the line of duty and their isn't a day that she doesn't miss him. When her office gets broken into she meets Mason. With one look she see he is very Hot and can't get him out of her mind. Mason knows something is troubling Harper but he doesn't know what. Can Mason figure it out and help Harper start living her life again.
I love how C.J. writes, it is flawless and she able to hold your attention from beginning to the end. Can't wait to read Kyle story!
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
I have a special place in my heart for our miltary and the stories that authors write about them. This book was a emotional roller coaster for me. I laughed, cried and was heart broken. The storyline will tug at your heartstrings. I absolutely loved Mason and Harper and thank goodness Mason had the patience with Harper.
Mason is a vet, a detective, and is a hottie. Harper is a widow, runs a business for vets, and is trying to get on with her life. Harper husband was killed in the line of duty and their isn't a day that she doesn't miss him. When her office gets broken into she meets Mason. With one look she see he is very Hot and can't get him out of her mind. Mason knows something is troubling Harper but he doesn't know what. Can Mason figure it out and help Harper start living her life again.
I love how C.J. writes, it is flawless and she able to hold your attention from beginning to the end. Can't wait to read Kyle story!
August 4, 2016
Broken, lost and Imperfect the story of what was, what will never be and what is.. Mystery, fear, loss, love, hurt, humour and sex. I loved these characters and their stories. This story takes you there. CJ makes you feel the character's love, their joy and then she pulls it all right out from under you and sideswipes you with their fear, hurt and loss. This book puts you right in the middle of all of the character's lives and emotional turmoil.. Takes you from low to high, beneath their broken and back out through their humour and smart whit. It isn't all sunshine and fucking rainbows. It's life the way people live it. This book gives you realistic views of coping and how quick life can change. If you are looking for a book with meaning, one that makes you think and feel; this book will do that for you. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed meeting these character's and hearing their stories. Patiently waiting on the next Imperfect Hero.
~BookSmacked Veronica
~BookSmacked Veronica
December 23, 2019
This was an ok, quick read. There was little drama, mostly side drama with the non profit dealing with theft and with Arida, Harper's best friend. Other than that, Harper had a hard time letting go of her deceased husband and moving on until she met Detective Mason. The characters lacked depth and personality. The story was just blatantly obvious with zero suspense with everything shown in plain sight where you can easily guess what happens next without having to read it.
October 21, 2017
Book #1, a novella, was okay but was too short for much gravitas. Book #2 was all the better for being almost twice as long, and book #3 is even better. The portrayal of Harper's grief is very moving but Mason feels less well painted. None the less he is depicted as the kind of guy we all want. Respectful, caring and emotionally mature.
February 18, 2024
Great book
July 5, 2016
I'm so glad I took a chance on this book. The last book in this series just wasn't my cup of tea. So I was kind of scared going into this book. I just didn't want a repeat of the last book!
But... Nope! That didn't happen!
I fell in love with Mason and Harper's story!
I felt the author did a fantastic job with their characters.
I felt the attraction between them.
Omg... The feels of their first kiss!
Sooooo... Hot! I think it was Harper's nails raking through Mason's hair that did it!
The sexual tension between these two was through the roof!
I loved it!!
As I started to read the story my heart broke for Harper. I felt her pain while reading her parts in this book. I had tears running down my face. She was just going through the motions. Putting a smile on her face day to day....but once she got back home... She would break down.
Having Mason walk into her life brought a spark of life back into hers. She was willing to work through her grief to give someone else a chance.
I loved how Harper handled herself. She just didn't jump right in.
Mason was a stand up guy! I loved him. He had the whole tuff guy cop thing going on. But at the same time... He had his soft side.
He really understood Harper situation and took things slow with her. That's why I think when they would get together here and there it was just so much stronger.
It was the build up.
I also fell in love with Harper's best friend Adria. She was Harper's rock. She really wouldn't let Harper spiral down. She would kick Harper in the butt when she needed it. I loved that about her. My heart also broke for her too. I felt bad for what she had to go through with someone she thought she would spend her life with.
Overall...
I thought this story was well written... I loved the characters.
And I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account)
But... Nope! That didn't happen!
I fell in love with Mason and Harper's story!
I felt the author did a fantastic job with their characters.
I felt the attraction between them.
Omg... The feels of their first kiss!
Sooooo... Hot! I think it was Harper's nails raking through Mason's hair that did it!
The sexual tension between these two was through the roof!
I loved it!!
As I started to read the story my heart broke for Harper. I felt her pain while reading her parts in this book. I had tears running down my face. She was just going through the motions. Putting a smile on her face day to day....but once she got back home... She would break down.
Having Mason walk into her life brought a spark of life back into hers. She was willing to work through her grief to give someone else a chance.
I loved how Harper handled herself. She just didn't jump right in.
Mason was a stand up guy! I loved him. He had the whole tuff guy cop thing going on. But at the same time... He had his soft side.
He really understood Harper situation and took things slow with her. That's why I think when they would get together here and there it was just so much stronger.
It was the build up.
I also fell in love with Harper's best friend Adria. She was Harper's rock. She really wouldn't let Harper spiral down. She would kick Harper in the butt when she needed it. I loved that about her. My heart also broke for her too. I felt bad for what she had to go through with someone she thought she would spend her life with.
Overall...
I thought this story was well written... I loved the characters.
And I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account)
July 5, 2016
I'm so glad I took a chance on this book. The last book in this series just wasn't my cup of tea. So I was kind of scared going into this book. I just didn't want a repeat of the last book!
But... Nope! That didn't happen!
I fell in love with Mason and Harper's story!
I felt the author did a fantastic job with their characters.
I felt the attraction between them.
Omg... The feels of their first kiss!
Sooooo... Hot! I think it was Harper's nails raking through Mason's hair that did it!
The sexual tension between these two was through the roof!
I loved it!!
As I started to read the story my heart broke for Harper. I felt her pain while reading her parts in this book. I had tears running down my face. She was just going through the motions. Putting a smile on her face day to day....but once she got back home... She would break down.
Having Mason walk into her life brought a spark of life back into hers. She was willing to work through her grief to give someone else a chance.
I loved how Harper handled herself. She just didn't jump right in.
Mason was a stand up guy! I loved him. He had the whole tuff guy cop thing going on. But at the same time... He had his soft side.
He really understood Harper situation and took things slow with her. That's why I think when they would get together here and there it was just so much stronger.
It was the build up.
I also fell in love with Harper's best friend Adria. She was Harper's rock. She really wouldn't let Harper spiral down. She would kick Harper in the butt when she needed it. I loved that about her. My heart also broke for her too. I felt bad for what she had to go through with someone she thought she would spend her life with.
Overall...
I thought this story was well written... I loved the characters.
And I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
-Michelle
But... Nope! That didn't happen!
I fell in love with Mason and Harper's story!
I felt the author did a fantastic job with their characters.
I felt the attraction between them.
Omg... The feels of their first kiss!
Sooooo... Hot! I think it was Harper's nails raking through Mason's hair that did it!
The sexual tension between these two was through the roof!
I loved it!!
As I started to read the story my heart broke for Harper. I felt her pain while reading her parts in this book. I had tears running down my face. She was just going through the motions. Putting a smile on her face day to day....but once she got back home... She would break down.
Having Mason walk into her life brought a spark of life back into hers. She was willing to work through her grief to give someone else a chance.
I loved how Harper handled herself. She just didn't jump right in.
Mason was a stand up guy! I loved him. He had the whole tuff guy cop thing going on. But at the same time... He had his soft side.
He really understood Harper situation and took things slow with her. That's why I think when they would get together here and there it was just so much stronger.
It was the build up.
I also fell in love with Harper's best friend Adria. She was Harper's rock. She really wouldn't let Harper spiral down. She would kick Harper in the butt when she needed it. I loved that about her. My heart also broke for her too. I felt bad for what she had to go through with someone she thought she would spend her life with.
Overall...
I thought this story was well written... I loved the characters.
And I can't wait to read the next book in this series!!
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
-Michelle
July 10, 2016
After meeting Mason in the first book in this series Above Protection, I was excited to get to read his story, and for the most part it's a good read. Without rehashing the synopsis, Mason and Harper meet when her business has been burglarized. They're both attracted to each other, but Harper is still coming to terms with her husband's death a little over a year ago. But there's something about Mason that seems to draw Harper in and the more time they spend together, the more she begins to heal from her loss.
Mason recognizes that something tragic has happened in Harper's life, and realizes that he needs to take things slow with her. As a veteran himself, he's all too aware of the risks service members face when they are deployed (and especially as his older brother Duke almost died while on deployment).
I was impressed by how Harper is written: a woman who is still mourning the loss of her husband, she's learning that it's okay to still embrace the love she had with her husband while at the same time learning to navigate a new relationship. Luckily she has her best friend Adria to help keep her centered and provide that moral support when she's finally ready to let go of the physical reminders. The part of the story that got me a bit teary was when she was visiting with her in-laws and what she gave each of them as a keepsake memory.
I thought the burglary arc of the story was over a bit quickly, almost like it was an afterthought to the story. The same with Adria's story arc; I don't think I would have included the baby part, just learning what her fiance was up to should have been enough for that issue. But I do like how the ending set up for the next book and I can't wait to read that story when it comes out.
Mason recognizes that something tragic has happened in Harper's life, and realizes that he needs to take things slow with her. As a veteran himself, he's all too aware of the risks service members face when they are deployed (and especially as his older brother Duke almost died while on deployment).
I was impressed by how Harper is written: a woman who is still mourning the loss of her husband, she's learning that it's okay to still embrace the love she had with her husband while at the same time learning to navigate a new relationship. Luckily she has her best friend Adria to help keep her centered and provide that moral support when she's finally ready to let go of the physical reminders. The part of the story that got me a bit teary was when she was visiting with her in-laws and what she gave each of them as a keepsake memory.
I thought the burglary arc of the story was over a bit quickly, almost like it was an afterthought to the story. The same with Adria's story arc; I don't think I would have included the baby part, just learning what her fiance was up to should have been enough for that issue. But I do like how the ending set up for the next book and I can't wait to read that story when it comes out.
July 5, 2016
Trying to hold her head up above her grief- not true, trying to wallow in her grief and hope everyone leaves her alone- Harper sits alone eating Ben & Jerry's like its the apocalypse. She goes through the motions of work and visiting with her bestie-when forced to. She would rather sit and wallow. Life just isn't the same with out her husband.
Mason is living life and despite his aversion to relationships. He seems to be doing fine- you know fine the way women say it: The It will eventually be fine way. He realizes he's lonely but being burned makes you hesitant to jump into the heat. Or it did until he met Harper. He can't seem to focus on anything else.
They are a two halves to a whole if they get their act together. She hides her feelings and he is afraid to want more.
I was an emotional mess in the beginning of this book- so sue me. I love the roller coasters though. Harper's feelings of guilt, fear, and lust make her a tangled mess. Mason wants to try but he too is wary of Harper's jumbled feelings.
Its not a wishy washy indecisiveness though, it comes of as legitimate fear of cheating on her dead spouse. I liked that. I liked that she was remorseful over realizing their relationship was gone. It made it feel more real.
Beneath Broken is the second of the Imperfect Heroes series. I must say that so far so good. I have enjoyed both books and am excited to read about Ky and Adria in the next one.
It isn't imperative to read book one before two but there are some reoccurring faces... Its nice to have a history of them but not necessary- though it does peak your interest more.
reviewed for Reviews from the Heart
Mason is living life and despite his aversion to relationships. He seems to be doing fine- you know fine the way women say it: The It will eventually be fine way. He realizes he's lonely but being burned makes you hesitant to jump into the heat. Or it did until he met Harper. He can't seem to focus on anything else.
They are a two halves to a whole if they get their act together. She hides her feelings and he is afraid to want more.
I was an emotional mess in the beginning of this book- so sue me. I love the roller coasters though. Harper's feelings of guilt, fear, and lust make her a tangled mess. Mason wants to try but he too is wary of Harper's jumbled feelings.
Its not a wishy washy indecisiveness though, it comes of as legitimate fear of cheating on her dead spouse. I liked that. I liked that she was remorseful over realizing their relationship was gone. It made it feel more real.
Beneath Broken is the second of the Imperfect Heroes series. I must say that so far so good. I have enjoyed both books and am excited to read about Ky and Adria in the next one.
It isn't imperative to read book one before two but there are some reoccurring faces... Its nice to have a history of them but not necessary- though it does peak your interest more.
reviewed for Reviews from the Heart
July 5, 2016
This series just goes from strength to strength....
Mason, an ex vet and current detective investigating a series of burglaries againt non profit orgs. Mason is a hard ass whos been hurt too many times and is suffering from ptsd... you can imagine the type - big and burly with a 10 foot wall built around him to stop himself getting hurt again....
Masons investigations into the burglaries leads him to the office of Harper who owns and runs a non profit org which helps veterans reintegrate into society after serving their country. Harper is dealing, or not dealing with her husbands death while fighting for his country.... She is isolating herself from life, living for her nights on the couch with her favourite ice cream while blocking out the world...
Their 2 worlds collide in an emotionally driven game of will they or won't they, as Mason begins to coerce Harper into feeling something again. Making her see that its okay to feel again, to breathe again, to love again.
Through his need to make Harper happy again, he is slowly beginning to remove the wall hes built up - piece by piece. Making him realise that even though they're both broken, its nothing that they cant fix in each other...
A well written, emotionally charged page turner, through the eyes and hearts of Mason and Harper...
Although not my favourite from the Imperfect Heroes series (thats Duke and Rayannes) Beneath Broken is most definitely my 2nd fave....
Book 3 NOW please :) Congratulations CJ on another awesome read....Thank You
Mason, an ex vet and current detective investigating a series of burglaries againt non profit orgs. Mason is a hard ass whos been hurt too many times and is suffering from ptsd... you can imagine the type - big and burly with a 10 foot wall built around him to stop himself getting hurt again....
Masons investigations into the burglaries leads him to the office of Harper who owns and runs a non profit org which helps veterans reintegrate into society after serving their country. Harper is dealing, or not dealing with her husbands death while fighting for his country.... She is isolating herself from life, living for her nights on the couch with her favourite ice cream while blocking out the world...
Their 2 worlds collide in an emotionally driven game of will they or won't they, as Mason begins to coerce Harper into feeling something again. Making her see that its okay to feel again, to breathe again, to love again.
Through his need to make Harper happy again, he is slowly beginning to remove the wall hes built up - piece by piece. Making him realise that even though they're both broken, its nothing that they cant fix in each other...
A well written, emotionally charged page turner, through the eyes and hearts of Mason and Harper...
Although not my favourite from the Imperfect Heroes series (thats Duke and Rayannes) Beneath Broken is most definitely my 2nd fave....
Book 3 NOW please :) Congratulations CJ on another awesome read....Thank You
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July 6, 2016This is the second book by C.J. Pinard that I've read, and I absolutely loved it! Every time I had to put this book down I could hardly wait to pick it back up!
C.J.'s character development is terrific! Her characters come to life, making you feel their emotions as if they were your own.
Harper's character is so well written. I easily related with her. I loved her character, and loved to watch her grow and come out of her shell. Harper's husband dies in Iraq, causing her to lose herself in grief. There are so many layers to her character, it was wonderful to see her change and grow.
Mason is one sexy, hot ex-Marine who becomes a tough detective.
I loved watching these two characters, each with their own scars, heal themselves and heal each other.
The chemistry between Mason and Harper is hot. I really appreciated how C.J. took her time, writing and building their relationship - made it realistic.
I absolutely loved Harpers friend, Adria. Her spitfire character came to life and drew me in from the start.
Hunter, Mason's partner was a hoot, I enjoyed his character very much.
Without spoiling anything I enjoyed the twist at the end!
I look forward to reading C.J.'s next book!
I highly recommend this book!
C.J.'s character development is terrific! Her characters come to life, making you feel their emotions as if they were your own.
Harper's character is so well written. I easily related with her. I loved her character, and loved to watch her grow and come out of her shell. Harper's husband dies in Iraq, causing her to lose herself in grief. There are so many layers to her character, it was wonderful to see her change and grow.
Mason is one sexy, hot ex-Marine who becomes a tough detective.
I loved watching these two characters, each with their own scars, heal themselves and heal each other.
The chemistry between Mason and Harper is hot. I really appreciated how C.J. took her time, writing and building their relationship - made it realistic.
I absolutely loved Harpers friend, Adria. Her spitfire character came to life and drew me in from the start.
Hunter, Mason's partner was a hoot, I enjoyed his character very much.
Without spoiling anything I enjoyed the twist at the end!
I look forward to reading C.J.'s next book!
I highly recommend this book!
July 14, 2016
4 Stars!
Book two in this amazing series and it is the best of it yet. Suspense. Action. Twists. Turns. Steam. Romance. Standalone. What more could you ask for in a romance novel? Well C.J. Pinard gives her readers a intriguing and edgy book that will keep you on your toes and make you breathless at times. Beneath Broken will take you on an emotional roller coaster, but by the end their journey was worth every single moment. Much like book one, this book grabs hold of you from the beginning and doesn't let go until the end.
This is Mason and Harper's story. We met him in book one and now he is back. She is still healing from the death of her husband. He is a cop investigating a string of robberies. He can tell she is wounded but knows she's worth it. She has feelings for him even though she won't admit it. Sometimes life gives us a second chance... at love. Sometimes we have to take... a chance. It won't be easy. Walls need to be broken down. Demons need to be slayed. Can these two find redemption, healing and love with each other?
I recommend this book.
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2016...
Book two in this amazing series and it is the best of it yet. Suspense. Action. Twists. Turns. Steam. Romance. Standalone. What more could you ask for in a romance novel? Well C.J. Pinard gives her readers a intriguing and edgy book that will keep you on your toes and make you breathless at times. Beneath Broken will take you on an emotional roller coaster, but by the end their journey was worth every single moment. Much like book one, this book grabs hold of you from the beginning and doesn't let go until the end.
This is Mason and Harper's story. We met him in book one and now he is back. She is still healing from the death of her husband. He is a cop investigating a string of robberies. He can tell she is wounded but knows she's worth it. She has feelings for him even though she won't admit it. Sometimes life gives us a second chance... at love. Sometimes we have to take... a chance. It won't be easy. Walls need to be broken down. Demons need to be slayed. Can these two find redemption, healing and love with each other?
I recommend this book.
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2016...
July 4, 2016
3.5 stars
Harper Mathis is the owner of a non-profit organization that helps veterans find jobs. She is a widow whose husband dies in Afghanistan. It's been 18 months and she still hasn't cleaned out his things, she doesn't sleep in their room, and barely eats. When her company is broken into, Detective Mason Oliver is assigned to her case. He is investigating a rash of thefts from non-profits. Mason is the first man Harper has been attracted to since her husband. Mason knows that if he wants to be part of Harper's life, he needs to take his time and let her lead. She just has to decide for herself that it's time to move on.
While this book deals with a tragic incident, it is not overly severe. The relationship between Harper and Mason is sweet and he is very respectful of her grief. My issue with the book is that it was sweet. There wasn't as much passion and heat as I would have liked. It was a good afternoon read, but not the smoking hot read I'm used to.
Review by Michelle C
Harper Mathis is the owner of a non-profit organization that helps veterans find jobs. She is a widow whose husband dies in Afghanistan. It's been 18 months and she still hasn't cleaned out his things, she doesn't sleep in their room, and barely eats. When her company is broken into, Detective Mason Oliver is assigned to her case. He is investigating a rash of thefts from non-profits. Mason is the first man Harper has been attracted to since her husband. Mason knows that if he wants to be part of Harper's life, he needs to take his time and let her lead. She just has to decide for herself that it's time to move on.
While this book deals with a tragic incident, it is not overly severe. The relationship between Harper and Mason is sweet and he is very respectful of her grief. My issue with the book is that it was sweet. There wasn't as much passion and heat as I would have liked. It was a good afternoon read, but not the smoking hot read I'm used to.
Review by Michelle C
August 9, 2016
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a great addition to the series. Mason isn't quite as big of a hot head as his brother Duke. I loved Mason all throughout this book!
Harper isn't ready for love, again. She knows she needs to do more than focus on work. When Detective Mason walks into her office she is instantly attracted to him. Though she fights it. How long can she push him away?
Mason is dealing with some of his own issues. He's determined to overcome them. He focuses his attention on work. What a better time to have a big case to solve. He doesn't know how to catch the guy, but once he does he learns his true feelings for Harper. Can he convince her to open her heart again?
I really enjoyed reading about Harper overcoming her fears. I would have liked to read more about Mason dealing with his, but he did deal with one to a degree. These two characters were perfect for each other. It was a breath of fresh air to read these characters. Loved them and can't wait for Kyle and Adria's book!!!
Harper isn't ready for love, again. She knows she needs to do more than focus on work. When Detective Mason walks into her office she is instantly attracted to him. Though she fights it. How long can she push him away?
Mason is dealing with some of his own issues. He's determined to overcome them. He focuses his attention on work. What a better time to have a big case to solve. He doesn't know how to catch the guy, but once he does he learns his true feelings for Harper. Can he convince her to open her heart again?
I really enjoyed reading about Harper overcoming her fears. I would have liked to read more about Mason dealing with his, but he did deal with one to a degree. These two characters were perfect for each other. It was a breath of fresh air to read these characters. Loved them and can't wait for Kyle and Adria's book!!!
July 15, 2016
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Above Protection (Imperfect Heroes, Book 1)
This is Harper and Mason’s story. Mason wants Harper but can see that she is hiding secrets. He wants her to open up so she will allow her walls down. Harper considers herself broken. She wants nothing to do with a cop or with love. What she wants and what she gets are two different things. Can she love again? With her being afraid will she ever chance love again? She has feelings for Mason but no way will she let him know. Will Mason ever be able to tear down her walls? Or is she just too broken for him to save?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. This story is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Above Protection (Imperfect Heroes, Book 1)
This is Harper and Mason’s story. Mason wants Harper but can see that she is hiding secrets. He wants her to open up so she will allow her walls down. Harper considers herself broken. She wants nothing to do with a cop or with love. What she wants and what she gets are two different things. Can she love again? With her being afraid will she ever chance love again? She has feelings for Mason but no way will she let him know. Will Mason ever be able to tear down her walls? Or is she just too broken for him to save?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. This story is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
July 28, 2016
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
I have a special place in my heart for our miltary and the stories that authors write about them. This book was a emotional roller coaster for me. I laughed, cried and was heart broken. The storyline will tug at your heartstrings. I absolutely loved Mason and Harper and thank goodness Mason had the patience with Harper.
Mason is a vet, a detective, and is a hottie. Harper is a widow, runs a business for vets, and is trying to get on with her life. Harper husband was killed in the line of duty and their isn't a day that she doesn't miss him. When her office gets broken into she meets Mason. With one look she see he is very Hot and can't get him out of her mind. Mason knows something is troubling Harper but he doesn't know what. Can Mason figure it out and help Harper start living her life again.
I love how C.J. writes, it is flawless and she able to hold your attention from beginning to the end. Can't wait to read Kyle story!
July 5, 2016
Harper is a stronger woman than me. After losing her husband, she wears a mask, and just goes through the motions of the day to day living. Mason is a hot detective tough guy. Both are done with any thoughts about love. Until they meet each other. This is the first book I've read by this author, and I'm going to read the first book now. This is a standalone series, so you don't need to read one book to read another. I loved Harper & Mason and how they took their time getting to know and fall in love with each other, even thought the tension was their. The buildup made me want to shake both of them, while I knew that if they moved to fast it would ruin their relationship. The emotions that I felt were all over the place and I love that because I've been sucked into that world! I can't wait to read the first and for the next book to come out!
July 5, 2016
Reading this book made me feel such joy as the relationship between Harper and Mason grew and I definitely had sad moments (with tears) witnessing the hardships that some of the characters went through. The obstacles these two had to face during the progressing of their relationship were so real and handled with care by CJ Pinard. I'm not a fan of drama or conflict just to move a story along and thankfully CJ doesn't do that. All the issues make sense and are pertinent to the story and have a purpose.
Harper is such a strong female lead while still being vulnerable, I loved her multiple layers. Mason makes an absolute swoon-worthy male lead. I think he may have even kicked Duke out of 1st place. I highly recommend not only this book but the entire series so far. I'm really looking forward to reading about Kyle in Book 3.
Harper is such a strong female lead while still being vulnerable, I loved her multiple layers. Mason makes an absolute swoon-worthy male lead. I think he may have even kicked Duke out of 1st place. I highly recommend not only this book but the entire series so far. I'm really looking forward to reading about Kyle in Book 3.
July 10, 2016
I knew just from the title that this book was going to bring a halestorm of emotions, and I was right.
Beyond Broken was joyful, heart-breaking, sad, and just made me feel all the feels. I was angry at times, hurting for both Harper and Mason, and then glad for them as well.
Harper is still getting over the loss of her husband eighteen months ago. She's working at the non-profit her and her late husband opened; helping wounded veterans getting jobs and acclimated back into non-warzones.
Mason is a by the book cop who is investigating thefts of local non-profits in the area. So that's how he and Harper really meet.
This book ticked all my boxes. There was drama, suspense, romance. It was well rounded and I want to read book 1 know just because I liked how the series of Imperfect Heroes is.
Beyond Broken was joyful, heart-breaking, sad, and just made me feel all the feels. I was angry at times, hurting for both Harper and Mason, and then glad for them as well.
Harper is still getting over the loss of her husband eighteen months ago. She's working at the non-profit her and her late husband opened; helping wounded veterans getting jobs and acclimated back into non-warzones.
Mason is a by the book cop who is investigating thefts of local non-profits in the area. So that's how he and Harper really meet.
This book ticked all my boxes. There was drama, suspense, romance. It was well rounded and I want to read book 1 know just because I liked how the series of Imperfect Heroes is.
June 20, 2016
After reading the first two pages, I was literally hooked on the book and read none-stop until it was finished. The book read fast and fell in love with the main characters Harper's and Mason. She was a strong & not a whining/selfish woman! She processed everything w/maturity & strength! I will actually stop reading books if the woman is a screaming/crying whining nutcase! Both Harper and Mason found themselves in each other as they grew & healed. I especially loved the way CJ Pinard made us feel the love, unity & support of our military towards each other! Thanks CJ for an awesome read.
July 6, 2016
Beneath Broken is the story of Harper and Mason. Harper lost her husband almost two years ago. He was killed in a military accident. Mason is a former Marine who is now a tough-as-nails cop. An break-in at Harper's business brings them together. The attraction is instantaneous, but Harper is holding back.
The romance itself is great. Mason slowly but surely breaks through Harper's barriers and when they get together, the emotion is palpable. Unfortunately, there was more time spent on the mystery surrounding the break-ins than on Harper and Mason's relationship itself.
I liked it and I loved Harper and Mason together.
The romance itself is great. Mason slowly but surely breaks through Harper's barriers and when they get together, the emotion is palpable. Unfortunately, there was more time spent on the mystery surrounding the break-ins than on Harper and Mason's relationship itself.
I liked it and I loved Harper and Mason together.
July 6, 2016
I have been a fan of CJ's for a few years and I have to say, Beneath Broken did not disappoint. Mason and Harper bring something alive in each other that they chose not to acknowledge was dead. They officially meet after Harper's business is robbed. They begin changing into better people without realizing it. He loses his anger and she loses her sadness. Together they find a happiness that both thought that was losses to them.
This was a great read and once again CJ wowed me. I cannot wait for the next book
This was a great read and once again CJ wowed me. I cannot wait for the next book
July 16, 2016
I received this for an honest review... I have to say I was totally pulled right into this story... Mason and Harper were a great read..
This author is a new read for me and it will definitely not be my last..
This book just had a bit of everything for this book lover from suspense to sexy times.. I just found myself absolutely rooting for this couple and loving the feels I got from them... I just loved the emotional roller coaster that these two take you on... I read this as a standalone but I will definitely be going back and reading the first book....
LOVED!!!!
This author is a new read for me and it will definitely not be my last..
This book just had a bit of everything for this book lover from suspense to sexy times.. I just found myself absolutely rooting for this couple and loving the feels I got from them... I just loved the emotional roller coaster that these two take you on... I read this as a standalone but I will definitely be going back and reading the first book....
LOVED!!!!
July 20, 2016
Beneath Broken is hands down my favorite book in the series.
Harper and Mason slowly crawled into my heart and by the last page they owned it. They each had personal issues they had to move past in order to move forward and in doing so I experienced so many different emotions. The strongest emotion I felt was love and shock by a twist that occurs in the book (sorry can't go into detail as I don't want to give anything away).
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Keep up the amazing job.
Harper and Mason slowly crawled into my heart and by the last page they owned it. They each had personal issues they had to move past in order to move forward and in doing so I experienced so many different emotions. The strongest emotion I felt was love and shock by a twist that occurs in the book (sorry can't go into detail as I don't want to give anything away).
Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Keep up the amazing job.
July 10, 2016
Well what can i say, CJ blew this out of the park!! Such a fantastic story. This book centres on Harper and Mason and CJ made took me
On a journey of so many emotions, shock, surprise, happiness and even OMG no you didn't!!
This book shows a realistic life journey that Harper and Mason travelled and can't wait for book 3 in this series!!!
On a journey of so many emotions, shock, surprise, happiness and even OMG no you didn't!!
This book shows a realistic life journey that Harper and Mason travelled and can't wait for book 3 in this series!!!
July 6, 2016
I loved this book. Mason is such a sweetie, also a completely hot strong detective. Harper is a strong beautiful woman. Harper's past loss is so heart touching. I can't wait to read the next story - Kyle's.
June 17, 2016
Loved this book.Mason is a total sweetheart compared to Duke. Can't wait to see what happens between Adria and Ky in the books to come.
March 29, 2017
This was my first C.J. Pinard book and it won't be my last! I really enjoyed reading this story. I fell in love with the main female character and I loved a few different aspects detailed in this story. I was worried I would be reading just another romance but C.J. put her own personal flare in this story and I just loved how it all came together! I can't wait to read more!!
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