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Sand and Sunset Series
Broken Wide Open
When your heart is broken, sometimes all you need is a gentle smile.
Grace Davidson didn’t have the smoothest childhood, but now, years later, she’s ready to start her new life with her amazing new husband—until she discovers his infidelity…with her best friend. Hurt and betrayed, Grace takes off alone for the exotic resort where she should be spending her honeymoon, only to realize it’s as lonely as it sounds. Until her hunky next-door neighbor says hello.
Leo was just a man Grace met while enjoying her un-honeymoon. They became friends, but that’s it. Yet even after she returns home, she can’t get him out of her head. Too bad she’ll never see him again.
Starting over in a new town after finding her dream job, Grace suddenly runs into Leo in the last place she expects. But is he the man she believes him to be? Or is her heart in danger of being broken wide open?
Grace Davidson didn’t have the smoothest childhood, but now, years later, she’s ready to start her new life with her amazing new husband—until she discovers his infidelity…with her best friend. Hurt and betrayed, Grace takes off alone for the exotic resort where she should be spending her honeymoon, only to realize it’s as lonely as it sounds. Until her hunky next-door neighbor says hello.
Leo was just a man Grace met while enjoying her un-honeymoon. They became friends, but that’s it. Yet even after she returns home, she can’t get him out of her head. Too bad she’ll never see him again.
Starting over in a new town after finding her dream job, Grace suddenly runs into Leo in the last place she expects. But is he the man she believes him to be? Or is her heart in danger of being broken wide open?
- GenresRomance
206 pages, Paperback
First published February 9, 2017
22 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
About the author
Susan Griscom
69 books721 followersFind me on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Griscom/...
Find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMGriscom
Susan Griscom, writes paranormal and contemporary romance. She's hooked on gritty romances and is a huge fan of superheroes and bad boys confronted with extraordinary forces of nature, powers, and abilities beyond the norm mixed with steamy romance, of course.
She loves those days when she gets to sit around in her sweat pants, doing nothing but writing emotionally charged stories about love and violence and drinking coffee.
She lives in Northern California with her romantic husband and together they have five great superhero kids and eight mini-superhero grand kids, so far.
Find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMGriscom
Susan Griscom, writes paranormal and contemporary romance. She's hooked on gritty romances and is a huge fan of superheroes and bad boys confronted with extraordinary forces of nature, powers, and abilities beyond the norm mixed with steamy romance, of course.
She loves those days when she gets to sit around in her sweat pants, doing nothing but writing emotionally charged stories about love and violence and drinking coffee.
She lives in Northern California with her romantic husband and together they have five great superhero kids and eight mini-superhero grand kids, so far.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 6, 2017
Its been a while since Ive read a book by Susan Griscom and for the most part those have all been paranormal. I wasn't sure what to expect from Broken Wide Open. I had read an excerpt the author posted online and it grabbed me right away. Then once I started reading the actual story I was hooked from the start. Broken Wide Open was an intense emotional roller coaster, on both Grace and Leo's part. You can't help but to fall for Leo almost immediately. He's very social, and you can tell there's more to him than meets the eye. My heart really broke for Grace, she had one incident after another with her love life. Just when she thought things were going well, something would just come in and burst her bubble.
Leo has a secret, one the whole town seems to know but he's afraid of telling Grace. Once she finds out his secret there's no telling how she'll react.
This is def one of my new faves by Susan Griscom, I really loved her paranormal books but she does Contemporary so well. I was really blown away with the detail and the connection between Leo and Grace. You can't help but swoon, especially when Leo's invovled.
Leo has a secret, one the whole town seems to know but he's afraid of telling Grace. Once she finds out his secret there's no telling how she'll react.
This is def one of my new faves by Susan Griscom, I really loved her paranormal books but she does Contemporary so well. I was really blown away with the detail and the connection between Leo and Grace. You can't help but swoon, especially when Leo's invovled.
June 17, 2021
Ha sido una lectura un poco rara porque no ha estado mal pero tampoco ha sido algo que vaya a quedar en mi memoria. Una historia romántica más en la que hay un montón de casualidades a cada cual más inverosímil, unas cuantas escenas que están prácticamente telegrafiadas desde el inicio y se ve venir de lejos, unos protagonistas que no te enamoran pero si que hace que te pique la curiosidad sobre cómo se desarrollará la historia.
Rompo una lanza en favor de él que por lo general es un tío de diez, salvo algún comentario que puede quedar machista pero encajado en su personalidad lo puedes tomar como una salida de tono o un chiste. Por lo demás es súper respetuoso y comprensivo, tal vez demasiado perfecto.
Ella es un poco veleta y no tiene nada que la haga destacar o ser especial. Es un personaje femenino bastante normal y genérico. Supongo que está construida así para que cualquiera se pueda "colocar" en su lugar y sentir que ella es la protagonista de la historia.
Tiene algunos momentos calientes con escenas de sexo pero me da la sensación de que están todas muy juntas y son demasiado similares. No está mal pero habría preferido algo más a lo largo de las páginas que un empacho.
Si te va disfrutar de historias románticas en las que hay un drama gigante y muchas emociones pero que no te va a hacer llorar porque te deja más sorprendida que otra cosa, con un poco de calentura por quí y por allá, que se lee rápido y con lenguaje sencillo entonces esta es una novela para ti.
Rompo una lanza en favor de él que por lo general es un tío de diez, salvo algún comentario que puede quedar machista pero encajado en su personalidad lo puedes tomar como una salida de tono o un chiste. Por lo demás es súper respetuoso y comprensivo, tal vez demasiado perfecto.
Ella es un poco veleta y no tiene nada que la haga destacar o ser especial. Es un personaje femenino bastante normal y genérico. Supongo que está construida así para que cualquiera se pueda "colocar" en su lugar y sentir que ella es la protagonista de la historia.
Tiene algunos momentos calientes con escenas de sexo pero me da la sensación de que están todas muy juntas y son demasiado similares. No está mal pero habría preferido algo más a lo largo de las páginas que un empacho.
Si te va disfrutar de historias románticas en las que hay un drama gigante y muchas emociones pero que no te va a hacer llorar porque te deja más sorprendida que otra cosa, con un poco de calentura por quí y por allá, que se lee rápido y con lenguaje sencillo entonces esta es una novela para ti.
February 4, 2024
For my infidelity aficionados,this begins with a CIA cheating.scene at her wedding... But oddly we never see hide nor hair from said the cheaters again!😂
She runs off on honeymoon by herself meets an intriguing man and coincidentally runs into him again at her new employment. Many coincidences here,A huge one that nearly destroys.them.
At first I thought the bizarre twist was silly...(Five yo murders Mother's affair partner because he thought he was hurting her) and then it got complicated and completely, painfully insane.Yikes! An intriguing tale! A lifetime of pain,suffering and near suicide for naught! An then nearly destroyed the Burgeoning Love story and killed his father(heart attack)
Interest piqued?😂
She runs off on honeymoon by herself meets an intriguing man and coincidentally runs into him again at her new employment. Many coincidences here,A huge one that nearly destroys.them.
At first I thought the bizarre twist was silly...(Five yo murders Mother's affair partner because he thought he was hurting her) and then it got complicated and completely, painfully insane.Yikes! An intriguing tale! A lifetime of pain,suffering and near suicide for naught! An then nearly destroyed the Burgeoning Love story and killed his father(heart attack)
Interest piqued?😂
February 18, 2017
https://romanticcynicblog.wordpress.c...
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Grace): 2/5
Hero (Leo): 3/5
Plot: 2/5
Grovel: the h needed to grovel more
Cheating: none
HEA: yes with baby
Triggers: none
Average score: 2.5/5
Best Line: none
Worst Line: “He was attractive in a fatherly way.”
Personal Review:
A lackluster romance filled with unneeded drama between a marine biologist and a hotel manager
Random Ramblings
•Sounded like she had been brainwashed by Craig
•The ‘secret’ was an annoying surprise
•I found myself getting bored with all the unnecessary drama
•I was very disappointed in Grace for her reaction
•Also, her water broke when he was inside her….gross
Overall Feeling:
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Grace): 2/5
Hero (Leo): 3/5
Plot: 2/5
Grovel: the h needed to grovel more
Cheating: none
HEA: yes with baby
Triggers: none
Average score: 2.5/5
Best Line: none
Worst Line: “He was attractive in a fatherly way.”
Personal Review:
A lackluster romance filled with unneeded drama between a marine biologist and a hotel manager
Random Ramblings
•Sounded like she had been brainwashed by Craig
•The ‘secret’ was an annoying surprise
•I found myself getting bored with all the unnecessary drama
•I was very disappointed in Grace for her reaction
•Also, her water broke when he was inside her….gross
Overall Feeling:
February 9, 2017
Broken wide open by Susan griscom another fantastic book put out by this author she really has a true talent for making you feel emotional highs and lows with her characters in this book we meet Grace whose world has just been broken wide open and you can feel her sorrow and her rage as if it was your own personal pain then we meet Leo who is sexy strong and very confident yet as the story progresses we see that he is just as damaged and full of Sorrow as anyone could be this book is fantastic it took you from the darkest depths to the highest of highs and everywhere in between I truly fell in love with these characters and hope that there is more from them in the future
November 13, 2019
Bea65 - per RFS
.
Fenici che peccato, il libro in sé è carino e piacevole da leggere, una bella storia d’amore con intrecci e colpi di scena che non si trovano facilmente nei romanzi e che avrebbero reso il libro veramente molto buono.
Avrete già capito che, nonostante i buoni propositi, c’è qualcosa che non va, e si tratta dell’editing.
Magari non tutti sanno di cosa si tratta, ebbene l’editor è colui che si occupa di correggere gli errori grammaticali e di punteggiatura in modo tale che le frasi siano scritte in un italiano fluido e piacevole.
Purtroppo, in questo libro, ci sono diverse imprecisioni e alcune frasi non sono ben comprensibili, tanto da obbligare il lettore a tornare indietro e rileggere il passaggio per comprenderle bene.
Per fortuna non tutto il libro è così, ma i problemi di editing sono abbastanza per farti saltare i nervi.
La domanda che mi è subito balzata alla mente è: “Ma anche nella versione in lingua originale ci sono tutti questi errori?”
Non lo scoprirò mai perché non sono molto ferrata in inglese.
Torniamo alla storia, vi ho accennato che è carina e intrigante, mi piacciono le vicende che si sviluppano poco per volta, facendoti percepire sin da subito che ci sono segreti nascosti. Ѐ un po’ come trovarsi davanti ad una Matrioske, con un segreto celato dentro a un altro.
Gli unici ad essere all’oscuro della verità sono i nostri protagonisti, Grace e Leo.
Già fare i conti con il proprio passato è difficile, entrambi hanno avuto un’infanzia piena di sofferenze, così come tanti di noi, ma i segreti scavano dei fossi profondi che poi è difficile colmare.
Si incontrano per la prima volta a Bora Bora, dove le spiagge sono dorate e l’oceano di un blu brillante, sotto il sole che ti scalda la pelle.
Non vi dico l’invidia, la mia estate è stata costellata da doveri familiari, lavoro e genitori anziani malati; l’unica cosa che desideravo era ritagliarmi un pochino di tempo per stendermi al sole. Ma figuratevi se ci sono riuscita.
Dopo le descrizioni delle spiagge infinite che ho letto in questo libro, ho sognato di trovarmi in quei luoghi a godermi il sole e la pace, naturalmente in compagnia della mia socia di sfortune croniche.
Tranquille, so di non essere l’unica, ma quando mi immagino su un’isola paradisiaca c’è sempre lei insieme a me che mi accompagna.
Grece doveva andare a Bora Bora per trascorrervi la sua luna di miele, invece parte da sola; solo leggendo il libro saprete il motivo della decisione e cos’è successo dopo, è troppo spassoso e io non voglio certo spoilerarvi le parti più divertenti.
Vi anticipo solo che per lei non è stato facile, è fuggita in fretta e furia, senza pensare che in questa località avrebbe trovato solo coppiette.
Leo si trova nell’isola per lavoro, è un biologo marino e deve studiare una medusa che vive in quelle acque.
Appena vede Grace prova per lei un’attrazione immediata, ma capisce anche che alla donna è successo qualcosa che l’ha resa vulnerabile.
Anche Grace si sente attratta da Leo, però dopo quello che le è capitato non se la sente di esporsi al rischio di nuove ferite, anche perché non è una incline ai flirt passeggeri.
I due decidono di essere amici e passare del tempo assieme, finendo per legarsi sempre di più.
Si rivelano solo i loro nomi, senza nemmeno menzionare le città da dove provengono.
Quando il loro tempo insieme finisce e tornano alla vita di tutti i giorni, rimpiangono entrambi di non sapere come potersi ritrovarsi.
Cosa il destino ha in serbo per loro?
Se mai riuscissero a rincontrarsi potranno amarsi, o ci sarà qualcosa o qualcuno che li terrà separati?
Le descrizioni delle emozioni dei protagonisti sono coinvolgenti.
La storia è ben strutturata e, quando l’autrice descrive un momento di particolare rilevanza, lo fa prendendo in considerazione sia il punto di vista di Grace che quello di Leo.
Questa è una caratteristica molto piacevole perché entrambi sono veramente coprotagonisti, senza che uno dei due personaggi abbia un ruolo privilegiato rispetto all’altro.
Grace e Leo hanno dei caratteri tranquilli e sono buoni di cuore, forse è questo il motivo che li porterà a soffrire tanto.
È piacevole trovare un personaggio maschile che non pensi sempre solo e unicamente a una cosa.
Se siete disposte a sorvolare sugli errori di editing è un discreto libro che vi terrà compagnia.
Buona lettura.
.
Fenici che peccato, il libro in sé è carino e piacevole da leggere, una bella storia d’amore con intrecci e colpi di scena che non si trovano facilmente nei romanzi e che avrebbero reso il libro veramente molto buono.
Avrete già capito che, nonostante i buoni propositi, c’è qualcosa che non va, e si tratta dell’editing.
Magari non tutti sanno di cosa si tratta, ebbene l’editor è colui che si occupa di correggere gli errori grammaticali e di punteggiatura in modo tale che le frasi siano scritte in un italiano fluido e piacevole.
Purtroppo, in questo libro, ci sono diverse imprecisioni e alcune frasi non sono ben comprensibili, tanto da obbligare il lettore a tornare indietro e rileggere il passaggio per comprenderle bene.
Per fortuna non tutto il libro è così, ma i problemi di editing sono abbastanza per farti saltare i nervi.
La domanda che mi è subito balzata alla mente è: “Ma anche nella versione in lingua originale ci sono tutti questi errori?”
Non lo scoprirò mai perché non sono molto ferrata in inglese.
Torniamo alla storia, vi ho accennato che è carina e intrigante, mi piacciono le vicende che si sviluppano poco per volta, facendoti percepire sin da subito che ci sono segreti nascosti. Ѐ un po’ come trovarsi davanti ad una Matrioske, con un segreto celato dentro a un altro.
Gli unici ad essere all’oscuro della verità sono i nostri protagonisti, Grace e Leo.
Già fare i conti con il proprio passato è difficile, entrambi hanno avuto un’infanzia piena di sofferenze, così come tanti di noi, ma i segreti scavano dei fossi profondi che poi è difficile colmare.
Si incontrano per la prima volta a Bora Bora, dove le spiagge sono dorate e l’oceano di un blu brillante, sotto il sole che ti scalda la pelle.
Non vi dico l’invidia, la mia estate è stata costellata da doveri familiari, lavoro e genitori anziani malati; l’unica cosa che desideravo era ritagliarmi un pochino di tempo per stendermi al sole. Ma figuratevi se ci sono riuscita.
Dopo le descrizioni delle spiagge infinite che ho letto in questo libro, ho sognato di trovarmi in quei luoghi a godermi il sole e la pace, naturalmente in compagnia della mia socia di sfortune croniche.
Tranquille, so di non essere l’unica, ma quando mi immagino su un’isola paradisiaca c’è sempre lei insieme a me che mi accompagna.
Grece doveva andare a Bora Bora per trascorrervi la sua luna di miele, invece parte da sola; solo leggendo il libro saprete il motivo della decisione e cos’è successo dopo, è troppo spassoso e io non voglio certo spoilerarvi le parti più divertenti.
Vi anticipo solo che per lei non è stato facile, è fuggita in fretta e furia, senza pensare che in questa località avrebbe trovato solo coppiette.
Leo si trova nell’isola per lavoro, è un biologo marino e deve studiare una medusa che vive in quelle acque.
Appena vede Grace prova per lei un’attrazione immediata, ma capisce anche che alla donna è successo qualcosa che l’ha resa vulnerabile.
Anche Grace si sente attratta da Leo, però dopo quello che le è capitato non se la sente di esporsi al rischio di nuove ferite, anche perché non è una incline ai flirt passeggeri.
I due decidono di essere amici e passare del tempo assieme, finendo per legarsi sempre di più.
Si rivelano solo i loro nomi, senza nemmeno menzionare le città da dove provengono.
Quando il loro tempo insieme finisce e tornano alla vita di tutti i giorni, rimpiangono entrambi di non sapere come potersi ritrovarsi.
Cosa il destino ha in serbo per loro?
Se mai riuscissero a rincontrarsi potranno amarsi, o ci sarà qualcosa o qualcuno che li terrà separati?
Le descrizioni delle emozioni dei protagonisti sono coinvolgenti.
La storia è ben strutturata e, quando l’autrice descrive un momento di particolare rilevanza, lo fa prendendo in considerazione sia il punto di vista di Grace che quello di Leo.
Questa è una caratteristica molto piacevole perché entrambi sono veramente coprotagonisti, senza che uno dei due personaggi abbia un ruolo privilegiato rispetto all’altro.
Grace e Leo hanno dei caratteri tranquilli e sono buoni di cuore, forse è questo il motivo che li porterà a soffrire tanto.
È piacevole trovare un personaggio maschile che non pensi sempre solo e unicamente a una cosa.
Se siete disposte a sorvolare sugli errori di editing è un discreto libro che vi terrà compagnia.
Buona lettura.
Read
February 6, 2017I received Broken Wide Open for an honest review and read in one day. I don'the like to talk much about what happens in the books I review in order not to give anything away. What started out as predictable and had me coming up with what was going to happen next took a very unexpected twist. Susan'so writing kept me on my toes and unable to put the book down. I respect Grace's strength in dealing with all life has handed her and Leo's respect and the understanding he has gained through his own battle.
This was an enjoyable and easy read book I recommend for anyone who likes romance novels.
This was an enjoyable and easy read book I recommend for anyone who likes romance novels.
June 4, 2017
3.75 stars—
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date Feb 9,2 017
When your heart is broken, sometimes all you need is a gentle smile.
Grace Davidson didn’t have the smoothest childhood, but now, years later, she’s ready to start her new life with her amazing new husband—until she discovers his infidelity…with her best friend. Hurt and betrayed, Grace takes off alone for the exotic resort where she should be spending her honeymoon, only to realize it’s as lonely as it sounds. Until her hunky next-door neighbor says hello.
Leo was just a man Grace met while enjoying her un-honeymoon. They became friends, but that’s it. Yet even after she returns home, she can’t get him out of her head. Too bad she’ll never see him again.
Starting over in a new town after finding her dream job, Grace suddenly runs in to Leo in the last place she expects. But is he the man she believes him to be? Or is her heart in danger of being broken wide open?
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---BROKEN WIDE OPEN by Susan Griscom is a stand alone, contemporary adult story line focusing on hospitality manager Grace Davidson, and marine biologist Leo D’Amore.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Grace and Leo) BROKEN WIDE OPEN follows Grace Davidson as she navigates the pitfalls and heartbreaks of her life. Just hours after her wedding our heroine finds her new husband in a compromising position with maid of honor. Not one to waste the honeymoon, Grace heads to Bora Bora where she will meet a deep-sea diver she knows only as Leo.Nothing comes of their few days together but neither one will forget the friendship that developed. Fast forward several months where Grace will come face to face with her new boss’s son-Leo D’Amore-the man who would steal her heart and destroy her life. What ensues is the building relationship between Grace and Leo, and Leo’s fall from Grace when sins of the past reveal in the present.
The relationship between Grace and Leo begins as friendship while in Bora Bora but Grace isn’t about to place her new position in danger by falling in love with the boss’s son. Leo knows that Grace is the woman of his heart but he must reveal the truth about his past before moving forward. The $ex scenes are romantic but mostly implied.
We are introduced to Grace’s mother Sofie and step-father Oliver Davidson, and quickly catch a glimpse of her newbie husband Craig; Leo’s best friend and the restaurant hostess Kate, as well as Leo’s father Len D’Amore.
The world building focuses on the relationship between Grace and Leo but a couple of twists to the story line add conflict and angst to their growing love. Grace will once again be blindsided by a man with whom she had fallen in love.
BROKEN WIDE OPEN is a slow building story line as Grace struggles with the failure of her marriage, and her attraction to Leo ‘Amore. The premise is emotional and revealing; the characters are passionate; the romance is a slow build to a happily ever after.
copy supplied for review
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date Feb 9,2 017
When your heart is broken, sometimes all you need is a gentle smile.
Grace Davidson didn’t have the smoothest childhood, but now, years later, she’s ready to start her new life with her amazing new husband—until she discovers his infidelity…with her best friend. Hurt and betrayed, Grace takes off alone for the exotic resort where she should be spending her honeymoon, only to realize it’s as lonely as it sounds. Until her hunky next-door neighbor says hello.
Leo was just a man Grace met while enjoying her un-honeymoon. They became friends, but that’s it. Yet even after she returns home, she can’t get him out of her head. Too bad she’ll never see him again.
Starting over in a new town after finding her dream job, Grace suddenly runs in to Leo in the last place she expects. But is he the man she believes him to be? Or is her heart in danger of being broken wide open?
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars---BROKEN WIDE OPEN by Susan Griscom is a stand alone, contemporary adult story line focusing on hospitality manager Grace Davidson, and marine biologist Leo D’Amore.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Grace and Leo) BROKEN WIDE OPEN follows Grace Davidson as she navigates the pitfalls and heartbreaks of her life. Just hours after her wedding our heroine finds her new husband in a compromising position with maid of honor. Not one to waste the honeymoon, Grace heads to Bora Bora where she will meet a deep-sea diver she knows only as Leo.Nothing comes of their few days together but neither one will forget the friendship that developed. Fast forward several months where Grace will come face to face with her new boss’s son-Leo D’Amore-the man who would steal her heart and destroy her life. What ensues is the building relationship between Grace and Leo, and Leo’s fall from Grace when sins of the past reveal in the present.
The relationship between Grace and Leo begins as friendship while in Bora Bora but Grace isn’t about to place her new position in danger by falling in love with the boss’s son. Leo knows that Grace is the woman of his heart but he must reveal the truth about his past before moving forward. The $ex scenes are romantic but mostly implied.
We are introduced to Grace’s mother Sofie and step-father Oliver Davidson, and quickly catch a glimpse of her newbie husband Craig; Leo’s best friend and the restaurant hostess Kate, as well as Leo’s father Len D’Amore.
The world building focuses on the relationship between Grace and Leo but a couple of twists to the story line add conflict and angst to their growing love. Grace will once again be blindsided by a man with whom she had fallen in love.
BROKEN WIDE OPEN is a slow building story line as Grace struggles with the failure of her marriage, and her attraction to Leo ‘Amore. The premise is emotional and revealing; the characters are passionate; the romance is a slow build to a happily ever after.
copy supplied for review
February 9, 2017
The author mentioned that this story was inspired by the song Broken Wide Open. I've not heard of this song before but I felt the lyrics as I read it at the introduction of the book and I loved how everything in the story fitted to this song and the sentiments.
Despite the fact that Grace wasn't really a risk taker, I was glad that she took the courage to do the necessary for her life on several occasions. It was also endearing to read about the relationship between her and Oliver who loved her as if she was his own.
Despite the dark secret that Leo was harboring, I don't think he could be any better of a person. He was down to earth, sensitive, open, caring; a gentleman through and through. I really enjoyed the the relationship Grace and Leo developed while in Bora Bora. It was easy, fun and totally relaxed and despite their attraction towards each other, I was relieved that they were 2 matured people who knew better than to act on that attraction with all that was going on. And it's because of how things had left off in Bora Bora that they could really start right when they met again couple months later.
Susan continues weaving a heartwarming tale of their blossoming relationship and then hit us with a twist that I didn't see coming. How the ends came together couldn't have been more perfect as well.
This is my first book by Susan Griscom and it was well written and emotional and isn't about insta-love but building a love that could sustain them beyond the betrayals and pain. I also love the stories from the secondary characters which led me to feel a sense of completeness and satisfaction at the end of the read.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Despite the fact that Grace wasn't really a risk taker, I was glad that she took the courage to do the necessary for her life on several occasions. It was also endearing to read about the relationship between her and Oliver who loved her as if she was his own.
Despite the dark secret that Leo was harboring, I don't think he could be any better of a person. He was down to earth, sensitive, open, caring; a gentleman through and through. I really enjoyed the the relationship Grace and Leo developed while in Bora Bora. It was easy, fun and totally relaxed and despite their attraction towards each other, I was relieved that they were 2 matured people who knew better than to act on that attraction with all that was going on. And it's because of how things had left off in Bora Bora that they could really start right when they met again couple months later.
Susan continues weaving a heartwarming tale of their blossoming relationship and then hit us with a twist that I didn't see coming. How the ends came together couldn't have been more perfect as well.
This is my first book by Susan Griscom and it was well written and emotional and isn't about insta-love but building a love that could sustain them beyond the betrayals and pain. I also love the stories from the secondary characters which led me to feel a sense of completeness and satisfaction at the end of the read.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
September 10, 2020
Ok, let’s look past the completely unoriginal trope. Woman gets married, finds husband having sex with a bridesmaid at the reception, runs away to honeymoon alone. Meets beautiful man she doesn’t exchange last names with. Starts new job, he’s her boss.
So we look past that. I don’t hate the trope by itself. I’ve seen it done well. Then we get to the plot. It’s foreshadowed and everyone knows exactly what’s coming. What we didn’t know was how eye roll worthy it would be. I felt like I was watching a poorly written and acted high school play. Of course she runs away and it’s not surprising since her character is really weak. And, in turn, he’s so guilt ridden he considers killing himself. He chooses life so he can suffer like he thinks he deserves to.
But wait! The twists and turns keep coming.
She moves away and gets another job. And it’s funny (?) that her new good looking boss keeps threatening to fire her if she won’t date him.
These two should stay apart. Too much drama and unless they both get therapy I don’t think they should be back together.
Basically, if you enjoy tropes and drama you’ll like this.
So we look past that. I don’t hate the trope by itself. I’ve seen it done well. Then we get to the plot. It’s foreshadowed and everyone knows exactly what’s coming. What we didn’t know was how eye roll worthy it would be. I felt like I was watching a poorly written and acted high school play. Of course she runs away and it’s not surprising since her character is really weak. And, in turn, he’s so guilt ridden he considers killing himself. He chooses life so he can suffer like he thinks he deserves to.
But wait! The twists and turns keep coming.
She moves away and gets another job. And it’s funny (?) that her new good looking boss keeps threatening to fire her if she won’t date him.
These two should stay apart. Too much drama and unless they both get therapy I don’t think they should be back together.
Basically, if you enjoy tropes and drama you’ll like this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2017
There is something about books with surprise twists that I really enjoy. Susan Grisom starts out this book with a twist at Grace's wedding, and it doesn't end there! from start to finish, this book will wrap you up into Grace and Leo's world. How they meet and separate, how they meet again and how their relationship grows and changes...and then the plot twists that completely changed the life of both of them. The secret that Leo carries since his childhood will come back to haunt them both, but will it be able to be overcome and get their happily ever after? This story is heart warming and heart wrenching and will keep you on your toes the whole time! You just cannot keep from listening just to hear how things turn out.
The duet narration of Tor Thom and Charley Ongel is spot on. The two are able to play off of each other in a way that gives the listener the ability to be in the story at that moment. Their narration is full of love and such emotion, the feelings are felt right to your core. You can't ask for more when you get lost in a book!
The duet narration of Tor Thom and Charley Ongel is spot on. The two are able to play off of each other in a way that gives the listener the ability to be in the story at that moment. Their narration is full of love and such emotion, the feelings are felt right to your core. You can't ask for more when you get lost in a book!
October 4, 2017
Susan Griscom’s description of Grace’s journey is hard to put down – a sure sign of great writing!
Charley Ongel and Tor Thom team up to produce a dual narration on this audiobook and the production is spotless – this is a tricky thing to do and a sure sign of great technical skills.
Read full review in the 2017 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Charley Ongel and Tor Thom team up to produce a dual narration on this audiobook and the production is spotless – this is a tricky thing to do and a sure sign of great technical skills.
Read full review in the 2017 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 16, 2018
BROKEN WIDE OPEN is a stand-alone contemporary romance.
The author mentions that this book is inspired by a song by the same name, written by Alex Woodard. I didn’t know the song, so I went to searching for it. I found this performance by For the Sender. Take a moment and enjoy; it is beautiful.
I liked the way that Grace and Leo allowed themselves to be friends when they first met. This was not a vacation fling. Because Grace is not a risk-taker, the relationship was forced to go slow. To become a fantasy. To be reunited in an unexpected time. To be put on hold … until it could not be denied.
I read the Whisper Cape series several years ago, but this was completely different. Different, but equally enjoyable. I loved it and would love to see more of this type of story from Ms. Griscom.
Narration: The narrators are perfect. Their voices melded well and were relaxing but did not sleep-inducing.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BROKEN WIDE OPEN
Series: N/A
Narrator: Tor Thom, Charley Ongel
Length: 6 hours and 9 minutes
Category /Genre: Contemporary Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Listenability: NSFW
Received from: Susan Griscom (as an Audible gifted copy)
The author mentions that this book is inspired by a song by the same name, written by Alex Woodard. I didn’t know the song, so I went to searching for it. I found this performance by For the Sender. Take a moment and enjoy; it is beautiful.
I liked the way that Grace and Leo allowed themselves to be friends when they first met. This was not a vacation fling. Because Grace is not a risk-taker, the relationship was forced to go slow. To become a fantasy. To be reunited in an unexpected time. To be put on hold … until it could not be denied.
I read the Whisper Cape series several years ago, but this was completely different. Different, but equally enjoyable. I loved it and would love to see more of this type of story from Ms. Griscom.
Narration: The narrators are perfect. Their voices melded well and were relaxing but did not sleep-inducing.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BROKEN WIDE OPEN
Series: N/A
Narrator: Tor Thom, Charley Ongel
Length: 6 hours and 9 minutes
Category /Genre: Contemporary Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Listenability: NSFW
Received from: Susan Griscom (as an Audible gifted copy)
August 6, 2017
Broken Wide Open is a very entertaining story of betrayal, secrets and second chances. Grace and Leo meet when she is still reeling from her husband's betrayal. Her vulnerability keeps Leo from acting on their attraction and they part, never expecting to see one another again. Grace is thrown for a loop when she discovers that her new employer is Leo's father. As a romance develops, Leo's devastating secret is revealed. Will everything that he thought he knew tear them apart or has he also been betrayed? Will they get their second chance at happiness? You'll have to listen and find out!
Broken Wide Open was a well written emotional journey for both Grace and Leo. The plot twist near the end was one that I didn't see coming. I liked the dual narration and the way that it flowed between the characters. I really enjoyed the story and would recommend Broken Wide Open.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
Broken Wide Open was a well written emotional journey for both Grace and Leo. The plot twist near the end was one that I didn't see coming. I liked the dual narration and the way that it flowed between the characters. I really enjoyed the story and would recommend Broken Wide Open.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. This review is my honest opinion.
July 4, 2017
Not your everyday love story!
If you're looking for a typical romance then you have come to the wrong place. Broken Wide Open is definitely not your everyday love story. It is however a fabulous tale of heartbreak, healing, & hotness that manages to allow hope to peek through even the darkest of days. Griscom surprised me with some moves I hadn't seen coming ensuring I would be one of those fans who simply can't get enough. Talk about not taking our time for granted! Jeesh!! I was so torn on what I thought was best for these characters & where I figured they would end up. Then BAM plot twist!! Be prepared for a bit of raw emotion waves rolling in & sweeping you away.
Grace & Leo have officially engraved their names on my favorites list. They are truly heartwarming & addictive!! I enjoyed every second of their journey .... and I would love to see more of them in the near future. *wink wink* Hey a girl can wish, right? HeeHee
If you're looking for a typical romance then you have come to the wrong place. Broken Wide Open is definitely not your everyday love story. It is however a fabulous tale of heartbreak, healing, & hotness that manages to allow hope to peek through even the darkest of days. Griscom surprised me with some moves I hadn't seen coming ensuring I would be one of those fans who simply can't get enough. Talk about not taking our time for granted! Jeesh!! I was so torn on what I thought was best for these characters & where I figured they would end up. Then BAM plot twist!! Be prepared for a bit of raw emotion waves rolling in & sweeping you away.
Grace & Leo have officially engraved their names on my favorites list. They are truly heartwarming & addictive!! I enjoyed every second of their journey .... and I would love to see more of them in the near future. *wink wink* Hey a girl can wish, right? HeeHee
February 9, 2017
Susan Grissom is a new author for me and I am so glad that I was chosen to receive an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review. Broken Wide Open is the second chance story of Grace and Leo. I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 because I found parts of it to not be really plausible and I felt that there were a couple of small areas where we were left hanging. I especially liked that there was no cliff hanger and that we were given a glimpse of Leo and Grace in the future. Overall it is a really good book and I will be reading more of Susan's books.
May 26, 2017
Fate was a really big part of this story. First Grace is cheated on shortly after the alter on her wedding day, then she meets Leo in an exotic location. They gained a friendship. Then to be brought together under the hotel. Leo's tragic past that links to Grace and then have it all come full circle that Leo was freed, Grace returned and their love restored, their hearts pulled back together.
It's an incredibly sweet, erotic story with some twists, really testing the human psyche.
I think they're a beautiful couple.
It's an incredibly sweet, erotic story with some twists, really testing the human psyche.
I think they're a beautiful couple.
July 16, 2017
Grace is a sweet person, experiencing the dog side of men. As she tries to find herself, she finds Leo while on her supposed honeymoon-now vacation. A friendship arises although there is a strong chemistry between them. When fate brings them back together, I enjoyed that same chemistry as they fumble through their relationship and dealing with their pasts with a twist I did not expect. I recommend this story, whether read or listened to.
I received a copy of this audiobook as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy of this audiobook as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.
June 29, 2017
This is a review of the audiobook
Right from the beginning you are pulled right into the story. Grace is a strong woman that experienced true heartbreak. She goes to Bora Bora alone and there she meets Leo in Bora Bora. Fireworks are exploding but things don’t go the way you would expect. Then back to reality. Grace is getting back on her feet after the wedding that never should have happened. Grace runs into Leo and the tension is palpable. Narration is great.
Right from the beginning you are pulled right into the story. Grace is a strong woman that experienced true heartbreak. She goes to Bora Bora alone and there she meets Leo in Bora Bora. Fireworks are exploding but things don’t go the way you would expect. Then back to reality. Grace is getting back on her feet after the wedding that never should have happened. Grace runs into Leo and the tension is palpable. Narration is great.
June 24, 2017
This was a quick, easy read, and hit the mark. While it started out relatively simple, and I wasn't sure whether I wanted to continue, I'm glad I did. Grace and Leo's story picked up and was quite enjoyable. There were some surprises that I hadn't anticipated, and that I really liked.
I'll certainly be on the lookout for more books by Susan Griscom.
I'll certainly be on the lookout for more books by Susan Griscom.
March 22, 2018
I had the audiobook version and the narration left me cold. DNF.
October 29, 2021
Kind of nice, but no real highlights for me. I liked the story.
March 10, 2017
Interesting read! I love Grace and Leo! I so freaking love Leo!!! **sigh**
Both characters are easy to like and love. On the first part of the book, I was pissed...pissed at Craig. I so want to kick his nuts and slap the hell out of her 'best friend'. Grrr... Anyway, as the story goes, I love how things went. The romance and drama..wow! The drama is killing me!!! I want to cry for Leo!!!! My heart breaks for him. T_T
Overall, the story is amazing! I love how I was easily pulled in and the unexpected revelation is a shocker! Loved it!
Both characters are easy to like and love. On the first part of the book, I was pissed...pissed at Craig. I so want to kick his nuts and slap the hell out of her 'best friend'. Grrr... Anyway, as the story goes, I love how things went. The romance and drama..wow! The drama is killing me!!! I want to cry for Leo!!!! My heart breaks for him. T_T
Overall, the story is amazing! I love how I was easily pulled in and the unexpected revelation is a shocker! Loved it!
February 10, 2017
Reviewed for 2 Girls Who Love Books Blog
This is my introduction to Susan Griscom's writing and I really enjoyed the story! The book revolves around Grace and Leo, who both have some deep wounds from childhood caused by a series of circumstances out of their control. Each character has their own journey of hurt and brokenness that really pulled me in. The first part pretty much revolves around Grace and her struggles coping with what has been handed to her at a most unexpected time.
I make it a habit to not read any reviews or even the synopsis of the book right before reading because I want to go in and be taken by surprise! The book started with a jolt and then settled into a slow walk along a beach getting to know Grace a little better. I don't want to give any part of the story away so the best way to describe the read for me is that I wanted to wrap myself up on a lounge chair while on a beach vacation! I felt like I was swimming in crystal blue water and walking through sugar sand struggling through an emotional thunderstorm! I did feel like the timeline could have been tightened up a little, it seemed like life was taking forever for these two souls. Now that I have finished, I do get why the author did take a bit to dive into the character development and give us the opportunity to get to know Grace and Leo a little deeper! I just wanted to hug these two people and spoon feed them a happy life! I had a hard time fitting Leo into a visual but I think that was intentional in a way to keep some of the mystery surrounding his characters life story.
During the read I felt like there were some parts that fell into place with predictability, but there is plenty of trauma, turmoil and surprise to get your anger and anxiety pumping! I highly recommend this book for someone looking to be the main character Grace and feel her life journey of self discovery! Snuggle up in a blanket on the sofa or on a beach lounge chair with a floppy hat and sun glasses, it won't disappoint!
This is my introduction to Susan Griscom's writing and I really enjoyed the story! The book revolves around Grace and Leo, who both have some deep wounds from childhood caused by a series of circumstances out of their control. Each character has their own journey of hurt and brokenness that really pulled me in. The first part pretty much revolves around Grace and her struggles coping with what has been handed to her at a most unexpected time.
I make it a habit to not read any reviews or even the synopsis of the book right before reading because I want to go in and be taken by surprise! The book started with a jolt and then settled into a slow walk along a beach getting to know Grace a little better. I don't want to give any part of the story away so the best way to describe the read for me is that I wanted to wrap myself up on a lounge chair while on a beach vacation! I felt like I was swimming in crystal blue water and walking through sugar sand struggling through an emotional thunderstorm! I did feel like the timeline could have been tightened up a little, it seemed like life was taking forever for these two souls. Now that I have finished, I do get why the author did take a bit to dive into the character development and give us the opportunity to get to know Grace and Leo a little deeper! I just wanted to hug these two people and spoon feed them a happy life! I had a hard time fitting Leo into a visual but I think that was intentional in a way to keep some of the mystery surrounding his characters life story.
During the read I felt like there were some parts that fell into place with predictability, but there is plenty of trauma, turmoil and surprise to get your anger and anxiety pumping! I highly recommend this book for someone looking to be the main character Grace and feel her life journey of self discovery! Snuggle up in a blanket on the sofa or on a beach lounge chair with a floppy hat and sun glasses, it won't disappoint!
February 27, 2017
I liked this story up until the big reveal. I liked Leo. He was sweet, kind, faithful, and supportive. Greece was all those things until she wasn't. She did not deserve Leo.
February 16, 2017
I really enjoyed this story. Life got in the way which is why it took so long to finish it but, the book is amazing. The twists that you find are amazing and definitely surprising. One of them hit me out of left field. No way did I see that coming. The characters Leo and Grace are heart warming, realistic and relatable. They now hold a special place in my heart. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. Well done, Susan!
February 17, 2017
I loved this book. It starts with a bang and never releases. Although, I was a little jealous. I needed that vacation in Bora Bora. All I could think when I read what she did when she caught Craig was just smile. I loved how resilient she was and although she was gun-shy, she didn't stop living and fade into nothingness. That for me was huge.
February 6, 2017
Broken Wide Open is a gripping wild ride from page one to the end. Susan Griscom has written another gut-wrencher!
Grace Davidson was lucky enough to get a fantastic stepfather, Oliver, after her father died when she was only four. Oliver has her back when her new husband bangs her maid of honor at the wedding reception.
Leo, a handsome marine biologist, just happens to be studying jellyfish in Bora Bora when Grace takes her honeymoon by herself. He is a caring, intelligent man whose secret is eating him up.
These two characters are great together. Their fun, easy relationship is infectious. Of course, when Grace’s vacation is over, she has no hope of seeing Leo again, but she is ready to move on with her life. A new job in a new location is just the start she needs. When that new start includes running into Leo and his family, Grace opens her self up again to the possibility of love and loss.
Susan Griscom continues to write stories that take you through the wringer and eventually deliver a heart-warming ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Visit Book Junkie Reviews for more reading recommendations--https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
Grace Davidson was lucky enough to get a fantastic stepfather, Oliver, after her father died when she was only four. Oliver has her back when her new husband bangs her maid of honor at the wedding reception.
Leo, a handsome marine biologist, just happens to be studying jellyfish in Bora Bora when Grace takes her honeymoon by herself. He is a caring, intelligent man whose secret is eating him up.
These two characters are great together. Their fun, easy relationship is infectious. Of course, when Grace’s vacation is over, she has no hope of seeing Leo again, but she is ready to move on with her life. A new job in a new location is just the start she needs. When that new start includes running into Leo and his family, Grace opens her self up again to the possibility of love and loss.
Susan Griscom continues to write stories that take you through the wringer and eventually deliver a heart-warming ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Visit Book Junkie Reviews for more reading recommendations--https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
February 9, 2017
Fate sometimes has a way of taking control and throwing you into situations that turn out to have a long-term effect. That's what happened to Grace and Leo. Little did she know that going on her "honeymoon" alone would lead her to Leo. Just like little did she know what would happen when she met him again. Life is fickle and always has skeletons somewhere just like Leo Both are wounded souls and when the lies and betrayal all come out, it could be those very lies that rip all Grace and Leo have become and let it fly away with the tide.
An emotional easy going story that doesn't cater to the insta-love it is built upon and nourished and developed with a gentle hand. This stand-a-lone read is well worth the time and money. Settle on down and enjoy because you wont be ale to put it down.
An emotional easy going story that doesn't cater to the insta-love it is built upon and nourished and developed with a gentle hand. This stand-a-lone read is well worth the time and money. Settle on down and enjoy because you wont be ale to put it down.
February 13, 2017
This was a sweet, well-written book. Grace is at her wedding when she discovers her brand new husband cheating on her. She goes on the honeymoon by herself, and meets her hunky neighbor, Leo. They spend time together just as friends, and at the end of her vacation she returns home by herself. She finds a dream job and moves to a new town to start over. She and Leo are shocked to run into each other in the last place they would expect to meet. Leo doesn't want to miss this opportunity for the love of his life. But can Grace risk her heart again? I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading others by Susan Griscom.
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