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Not Broken #1
Not Broken: The Happily Ever After
They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger... Calida Jokobi doesn't see it that way. Surviving an abusive relationship with a sadistic, manipulative man changed her. She has spent the last two years carefully constructing her new persona with two goals in mind: to keep the remaining pieces of her heart safe and her deepest secrets buried. One man puts it all at risk. Malcolm has been a part of Calida's life for as long as she can remember. A friend. Her first teenage crush. Now he's asking for something she swore she'd never give again: her heart. Calida must decide if she should risk the fragile facade she's created and give Malcolm the chance he's asking for. They say love can heal all wounds... Malcolm Frankel wants to prove to Calida it's true. She survived a hell most people couldn't fathom. He's been by her side fulfilling whatever role she needs him to play. All except the one he wants most. It took nearly losing her to make Malcolm realize he couldn't keep denying his feelings. He knows no one goes through an ordeal like that and comes out unscathed, but the closer they get, the more he learns just how deep Calida's wounds go. She's the only woman he's ever loved, and Malcolm is ready to put his own heart at risk for a chance at mending hers.
432 pages, Paperback
First published November 23, 2017
10 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Meka James
24 books283 followersI'm a stay at home mom of 4 kids and have been happily married to my husband for 11 years and counting. I lead a pretty basic and straightforward life and use writing and reading as my escape.
Best places to find me:
Blog:
http://mekasmusings.blogspot.com/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorMekaJames
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/author_meka...
Best places to find me:
Blog:
http://mekasmusings.blogspot.com/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorMekaJames
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/author_meka...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
January 1, 2018
Whether you’ve read Ms. James’ debut novel, FIENDISH, or not, NOT BROKEN is a much-needed light in the darkness. It stands alone beautifully, but for those of us who experienced FIENDISH first hand, it is a much-needed balm for the ravaged soul. Ms. James is a masterful storyteller, weaving a gripping tale surrounding the hardships of finding oneself in the wake of an abusive relationship, learning to trust again, and discovering strength in the power of love.
Watching Calida struggle with her past, while trying to make sense of her present, is beautiful, heart wrenching, and at times, super freakin’ hot. Mal doesn’t disappoint as the perfect balance between good guy, bad boy, and Hubba-Hubba sexy. He is just what Calida needs… but can she get past the demons in her mind to let him in?
You will thoroughly enjoy going on this journey with Calida and Mal and the wonderful cast of supporting characters Ms. James wields to draw you in, take you by the heart, and squeeze until there is nothing left but goo. Happy sighs will abound, I guarantee you.
Watching Calida struggle with her past, while trying to make sense of her present, is beautiful, heart wrenching, and at times, super freakin’ hot. Mal doesn’t disappoint as the perfect balance between good guy, bad boy, and Hubba-Hubba sexy. He is just what Calida needs… but can she get past the demons in her mind to let him in?
You will thoroughly enjoy going on this journey with Calida and Mal and the wonderful cast of supporting characters Ms. James wields to draw you in, take you by the heart, and squeeze until there is nothing left but goo. Happy sighs will abound, I guarantee you.
November 20, 2017
Let’s start with this amazing cover. I get all excited every time I see it because covers are SO important and, sadly, not always given the attention they deserve. Not Broken has an absolutely gorgeous cover that also just so happens to make this Babe squee because… well you’ll see when you read the story.
In Fiendish, Calida is embroiled in a massive love-gone-wrong story. Ms. James is a brilliant author who weaves in enough details of Calida’s past for the reader to know she is struggling to come out of a very dark place, however she doesn’t retell the entire Fiendish story. It’s seamless and organic and feels very natural to the reader. I didn’t personally read Fiendish prior to reading Not Broken, however I didn’t feel like I missed anything.
I will, however, admit to a grievous mistake I made in an effort to keep other readers from following my path. I spent probably the first 5 – 10 chapters slightly (okay, sometimes very) angry with Malcolm for pushing Calida too much, taking away her ability to make decisions, and a whole host of other things. Dear reader, this is an egregious error. Just love Mal. Just love him from the very first word because I promise you will regret ever being upset with him. There are things he has to learn along the way and he does. And he is perfect and amazing. He also belongs to me so, look but don’t touch.
Calida has a journey of her own in Not Broken. Finding her voice, her worth, and discovering that she deserves a love that doesn’t hurt. Most of the time as she winds through her path of self-realization, Malcolm is a strong and steady and patient partner. Occasionally he pushes, sometimes too hard, but sometimes just enough to pull Calida out of the dark places her mind wanders.
In addition to developing amazing and connectable leading characters, Ms. James very accurately portrays Calida’s rebirth. Growing from abuse isn’t an uphill climb, it’s more like a roller coaster. There are good days and bad days and awful days. Calida’s first breakthrough moment was so heartbreakingly realistic it has stuck with me ever since.
I spent an entire night, wide awake, just to finish this book. It grabbed my heart, squeezed, twisted, and wouldn’t let it go.
Can we also discuss the ridiculously hot sex scenes? Yes, multiple. Yes, amazing. Yes, Malcolm is still mine.
If I could possibly give Not Broken anything above five stars, I’d do it. You need to make sure you RUN to your computer, tablet, or phone and preorder this book ASAP. You will not regret one moment of Malcolm and Calida’s amazing journey from extreme pain to breathtaking love.
In Fiendish, Calida is embroiled in a massive love-gone-wrong story. Ms. James is a brilliant author who weaves in enough details of Calida’s past for the reader to know she is struggling to come out of a very dark place, however she doesn’t retell the entire Fiendish story. It’s seamless and organic and feels very natural to the reader. I didn’t personally read Fiendish prior to reading Not Broken, however I didn’t feel like I missed anything.
I will, however, admit to a grievous mistake I made in an effort to keep other readers from following my path. I spent probably the first 5 – 10 chapters slightly (okay, sometimes very) angry with Malcolm for pushing Calida too much, taking away her ability to make decisions, and a whole host of other things. Dear reader, this is an egregious error. Just love Mal. Just love him from the very first word because I promise you will regret ever being upset with him. There are things he has to learn along the way and he does. And he is perfect and amazing. He also belongs to me so, look but don’t touch.
Calida has a journey of her own in Not Broken. Finding her voice, her worth, and discovering that she deserves a love that doesn’t hurt. Most of the time as she winds through her path of self-realization, Malcolm is a strong and steady and patient partner. Occasionally he pushes, sometimes too hard, but sometimes just enough to pull Calida out of the dark places her mind wanders.
In addition to developing amazing and connectable leading characters, Ms. James very accurately portrays Calida’s rebirth. Growing from abuse isn’t an uphill climb, it’s more like a roller coaster. There are good days and bad days and awful days. Calida’s first breakthrough moment was so heartbreakingly realistic it has stuck with me ever since.
I spent an entire night, wide awake, just to finish this book. It grabbed my heart, squeezed, twisted, and wouldn’t let it go.
Can we also discuss the ridiculously hot sex scenes? Yes, multiple. Yes, amazing. Yes, Malcolm is still mine.
If I could possibly give Not Broken anything above five stars, I’d do it. You need to make sure you RUN to your computer, tablet, or phone and preorder this book ASAP. You will not regret one moment of Malcolm and Calida’s amazing journey from extreme pain to breathtaking love.
November 22, 2017
KUDOOOOS . . .
Not Broken was a tale of pain from someone you love via emotional, physical, and mental. Calida was broken in so many ways. The tale that lead her to the point in life where she was no longer broken, no longer afraid, no longer lost, no longer drowning, no longer wanting to be cut off from the world around her and love.
I will say that I did not read the prior book that contained more in depth details of Calida's painful reality of love, beauty, and security. I feel that if I would have read it I would not have continued on to read this one because I would not have finished the first book. Mental, physical, emotional and sexual abuse have a way of rubbing me the wrong way, but at the same time depending on the mood I was in I may have given the read a chance. Now that I have this read in hand (and completed) I can go back and read the detailed aspects of Calida's attempt to love forever without the disdain to toss the reader to the trash.
Calida was a woman that came back after life beat her down literally. She had a friend that was there for her through most of the drama. Malcolm was the rock she needed in her time of recovery and renewal. He was also that push she needed but fought. Calida went through a lot of test and trails to get her to the point where she could feel like moving forward with her life. It took lots of time but when she hit her milestones things were real. I could feel the way her first realization at what was really going on. It felt like I was there with her and experiences every nuance of it all.
Malcolm and Calida fit each other, even through the awkward parts they fit. The intensity of the good and bad was just outstanding. Malcolm would not give up. He fought for her as well as fought her for what was best for her. He knew he was best for her. He just had to show her they would be better than she could ever dream of.
The writing was oh so good. I loved the characters especially Malcolm. I would need to buck up the never and courage and go back and read Calida before Malcolm and get her whole sorrid tale. I did not feel the need to have to go back and do it when I was reading the book but it would be a chance to have a fresh look at what made Calida the way she was and to take even greater pleasure in her gift of happily ever after.
Not Broken was a tale of pain from someone you love via emotional, physical, and mental. Calida was broken in so many ways. The tale that lead her to the point in life where she was no longer broken, no longer afraid, no longer lost, no longer drowning, no longer wanting to be cut off from the world around her and love.
I will say that I did not read the prior book that contained more in depth details of Calida's painful reality of love, beauty, and security. I feel that if I would have read it I would not have continued on to read this one because I would not have finished the first book. Mental, physical, emotional and sexual abuse have a way of rubbing me the wrong way, but at the same time depending on the mood I was in I may have given the read a chance. Now that I have this read in hand (and completed) I can go back and read the detailed aspects of Calida's attempt to love forever without the disdain to toss the reader to the trash.
Calida was a woman that came back after life beat her down literally. She had a friend that was there for her through most of the drama. Malcolm was the rock she needed in her time of recovery and renewal. He was also that push she needed but fought. Calida went through a lot of test and trails to get her to the point where she could feel like moving forward with her life. It took lots of time but when she hit her milestones things were real. I could feel the way her first realization at what was really going on. It felt like I was there with her and experiences every nuance of it all.
Malcolm and Calida fit each other, even through the awkward parts they fit. The intensity of the good and bad was just outstanding. Malcolm would not give up. He fought for her as well as fought her for what was best for her. He knew he was best for her. He just had to show her they would be better than she could ever dream of.
The writing was oh so good. I loved the characters especially Malcolm. I would need to buck up the never and courage and go back and read Calida before Malcolm and get her whole sorrid tale. I did not feel the need to have to go back and do it when I was reading the book but it would be a chance to have a fresh look at what made Calida the way she was and to take even greater pleasure in her gift of happily ever after.
December 16, 2017
So, this book sort of found me, instead of the other way around, and I’m sure glad I decided to read it. (Read: I won it in a giveaway on Twitter!)
What I liked about this book is that instead of centering on a broken relationship, it focused on the aftermath of an abusive relationship. Moreover, it focused on the recovery and the difficulty in learning to trust again, and the difficulty that the loved ones of a person who was in an abusive relationship might face. It’s a very raw book in places, but also very touching.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way that Malcolm was portrayed. He’s a good guy, and he wants to do what’s best, but that does not mean he’s perfect. He makes mistakes, he stumbles and most of all he is human in a fantastically real way. My favourite part is the absolutely adorable relationship between him and Shawn. I love it when men are shown with great parenting skills (there are lots of amazing dads out there!).
Calida is a woman who has shut herself into a glass case and won’t let the rest of the world in. She hides so much of her pain from her family and friends. I loved her journey throughout the story, I won’t get too specific cause spoilers, but I think it speaks volumes about the nature of pain and it’s relationship to the people around us.
The relationship between the two characters was fantastic. I didn’t feel like either character compromised too much for the other, rather there was very much a sense of what can we do to be better for each other, together. Relationships are a two-way street guys, so it’s nice to see them written that way.
My one complaint is that it felt like Calida and Malcolm’s relationship came to a natural climax (yeah, I’m giggling at this wording too) and then everything resolved itself really easily and then there was a long drawn out part about the happy ending. I guess, I just feel that the build-up to it was great and then it was a little anti-climactic.
But seriously, I highly recommend this book. It’s a raw book about the struggles of healing and finding love after a great pain and a testament to the strength of the human heart.
What I liked about this book is that instead of centering on a broken relationship, it focused on the aftermath of an abusive relationship. Moreover, it focused on the recovery and the difficulty in learning to trust again, and the difficulty that the loved ones of a person who was in an abusive relationship might face. It’s a very raw book in places, but also very touching.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way that Malcolm was portrayed. He’s a good guy, and he wants to do what’s best, but that does not mean he’s perfect. He makes mistakes, he stumbles and most of all he is human in a fantastically real way. My favourite part is the absolutely adorable relationship between him and Shawn. I love it when men are shown with great parenting skills (there are lots of amazing dads out there!).
Calida is a woman who has shut herself into a glass case and won’t let the rest of the world in. She hides so much of her pain from her family and friends. I loved her journey throughout the story, I won’t get too specific cause spoilers, but I think it speaks volumes about the nature of pain and it’s relationship to the people around us.
The relationship between the two characters was fantastic. I didn’t feel like either character compromised too much for the other, rather there was very much a sense of what can we do to be better for each other, together. Relationships are a two-way street guys, so it’s nice to see them written that way.
My one complaint is that it felt like Calida and Malcolm’s relationship came to a natural climax (yeah, I’m giggling at this wording too) and then everything resolved itself really easily and then there was a long drawn out part about the happy ending. I guess, I just feel that the build-up to it was great and then it was a little anti-climactic.
But seriously, I highly recommend this book. It’s a raw book about the struggles of healing and finding love after a great pain and a testament to the strength of the human heart.
January 21, 2018
I loved this romance novel. It switched between Calida’s first person point-of-view and Malcolm’s first person point-of-view. Calida was my favorite character because of her inner-strength. It took a lot out of her pretending she was normal in order to please her family and friends. I loved every scene of Calida opening up to her therapist. As a reader, it gave me relief that she’d make it.
Meka James provided great sexual tension throughout the book. Malcolm was a total gentleman, loving Calida but respecting her boundaries of not liking to be touched. But, oh boy, when Calida felt comfortable around Malcolm toward the middle, those sex scenes were sensual, explosive, and hot, hot, hot!!!
From beginning to end, the book had interesting conflict, inner-struggles, and lots and lots of drama. I shed a tear when Calida was drunk and finally revealed to Malcolm what her abusive husband did to her in the bathroom. I wanted to give Calida a hug throughout every scene.
My favorite lines: 1) This kiss held emotion, it held promise, it held hope. This kiss was a new beginning…Our beginning. 2) I didn’t want to go into the dark and empty place alone, but that was my only choice. 3) With each passing day, he looked more and more like Seth. He haunted me through our son. 4) “Calida, stop shutting me out. Please. I’m not the enemy. I promise you.” 5) How had I lost control? Did I ever really have control?
I RECOMMEND this book to read.
Meka James provided great sexual tension throughout the book. Malcolm was a total gentleman, loving Calida but respecting her boundaries of not liking to be touched. But, oh boy, when Calida felt comfortable around Malcolm toward the middle, those sex scenes were sensual, explosive, and hot, hot, hot!!!
From beginning to end, the book had interesting conflict, inner-struggles, and lots and lots of drama. I shed a tear when Calida was drunk and finally revealed to Malcolm what her abusive husband did to her in the bathroom. I wanted to give Calida a hug throughout every scene.
My favorite lines: 1) This kiss held emotion, it held promise, it held hope. This kiss was a new beginning…Our beginning. 2) I didn’t want to go into the dark and empty place alone, but that was my only choice. 3) With each passing day, he looked more and more like Seth. He haunted me through our son. 4) “Calida, stop shutting me out. Please. I’m not the enemy. I promise you.” 5) How had I lost control? Did I ever really have control?
I RECOMMEND this book to read.
December 15, 2017
I’m a sucker for a good love story and I love realistic romance novels. Sure, I won’t lie and pretend the sex scenes aren’t nice but that keeps me reading is characters who are multi-faceted, humanistically flawed, and still grin and bear their struggles.
In walks Calida, our warrior princess. She’s a single mother with a heavy backstory (one that readers can unravel by reading this author’s first novel, Fiendish) although you aren’t required to do any additional reading in order to fully catch that Callida is entirely shaken up and a man unraveled her in ways that distorted her thought patterns and mind constructs for love and romance.
If you are looking for something to read that keeps you warm and begging for more, check out #NotBroken at these fine retailers:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2zzycc6
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2AUmoBH
B&N: http://bit.ly/2yLzN0S
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2zPjleu
iTunes: http://apple.co/2gBxIKN
In walks Calida, our warrior princess. She’s a single mother with a heavy backstory (one that readers can unravel by reading this author’s first novel, Fiendish) although you aren’t required to do any additional reading in order to fully catch that Callida is entirely shaken up and a man unraveled her in ways that distorted her thought patterns and mind constructs for love and romance.
If you are looking for something to read that keeps you warm and begging for more, check out #NotBroken at these fine retailers:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2zzycc6
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2AUmoBH
B&N: http://bit.ly/2yLzN0S
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2zPjleu
iTunes: http://apple.co/2gBxIKN
November 23, 2017
I'm so happy this book was released. After all the angst in the first one, it's so satisfying to read Calida's happy ending. And what I love the most is how realistic it is. Calida doesn't just "get over" her issues from the abuse in a few weeks, a few years, or a few chapters. It's on-going, it's the central theme, and it's realistic and well written.
Malcolm is a sweetheart. I can't fault him at all, even the moments where he puts his foot (or entire leg and half the other one) in it.
It's really a shame these books don't have many reviews -- Meka James really is an incredible, captivating writer. Hope to buy more from her in the future.
Malcolm is a sweetheart. I can't fault him at all, even the moments where he puts his foot (or entire leg and half the other one) in it.
It's really a shame these books don't have many reviews -- Meka James really is an incredible, captivating writer. Hope to buy more from her in the future.
November 19, 2017
In this beautifully written story, the ultra yummy Malcolm proves to the lovely and fragile Calida that she is indeed, Not Broken.
I loved witnessing their real struggle and there were also some happy moments (Ms. James writes THE BEST sex scenes).
This book was a refreshing change from formula romance and I highly recommend it.
I loved witnessing their real struggle and there were also some happy moments (Ms. James writes THE BEST sex scenes).
This book was a refreshing change from formula romance and I highly recommend it.
February 10, 2018
This was a beautiful love story taking place after a series of tragic and heartbreaking events. The main characters, Calida and Malcolm, are believable and the entire story was well written. I wanted to reach through the pages and help the characters with their pain.
November 17, 2017
This was a wonderful book, it was so well written and I could feel all of Calida's emotions. Her pain, suffering, self-doubt, anger, fear, confusion. All of these emotions come at you as the reader. But there is also hope. This comes in the form of Malcolm. He's in love with Calida and is willing to do whatever it takes to prove it to her. A very good book.
April 30, 2019
when reading the word " End " with tears in my eyes 😢😢 .... She deserves all that happiness , she deserves him , and he won her 😍😍😍
December 17, 2019
This was a novel about trauma, surviving and thriving after abusive relationships. Malcolm was such an understanding man as he steadily showed Calida that she was not broken and there was a future filled with love with him, i she could find it in herself. Engaging characters and an emotional strong story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2018
Let’s start with this amazing cover. I get all excited every time I see it because covers are SO important and, sadly, not always given the attention they deserve. Not Broken has an absolutely gorgeous cover that also just so happens to make me squee because… well you’ll see when you read the story.
In Fiendish, Calida is embroiled in a massive love-gone-wrong story. Ms. James is a brilliant author who weaves in enough details of Calida’s past for the reader to know she is struggling to come out of a very dark place, however she doesn’t retell the entire Fiendish story. It’s seamless and organic and feels very natural to the reader making Not Broken work well as a standalone. I didn’t personally read Fiendish prior to reading Not Broken, however I didn’t feel like I missed anything.
I will, however, admit to a grievous mistake I made in an effort to keep other readers from following my path. I spent probably the first 5 – 10 chapters slightly (okay, sometimes very) angry with Malcolm for pushing Calida too much, taking away her ability to make decisions, and a whole host of other things. Dear reader, this is an egregious error. Just love Mal. Just love him from the very first word because I promise you will regret ever being upset with him. There are things he has to learn along the way and he does. And he is perfect and amazing. He also belongs to me so, look but don’t touch.
Calida has a journey of her own in Not Broken. Finding her voice, her worth, and discovering that she deserves a love that doesn’t hurt. Most of the time as she winds through her path of self-realization, Malcolm is a strong and steady and patient partner. Occasionally he pushes, sometimes too hard, but sometimes just enough to pull Calida out of the dark places her mind wanders.
In addition to developing amazing and connectible leading characters, Ms. James very accurately portrays Calida’s rebirth. Growing from abuse isn’t an uphill climb, it’s more like a roller coaster. There are good days and bad days and awful days. Calida’s first breakthrough moment was so heartbreakingly realistic it has stuck with me ever since.
I spent an entire night, wide awake, just to finish this book. It grabbed my heart, squeezed, twisted, and wouldn’t let it go.
Can we also discuss the ridiculously hot sex scenes? Yes, multiple. Yes, amazing. Yes, Malcolm is still mine.
If I could possibly give Not Broken anything above five stars, I’d do it. You need to make sure you RUN to your computer, tablet, or phone and buy this book ASAP. You will not regret one moment of Malcolm and Calida’s amazing journey from extreme pain to breathtaking love.
In Fiendish, Calida is embroiled in a massive love-gone-wrong story. Ms. James is a brilliant author who weaves in enough details of Calida’s past for the reader to know she is struggling to come out of a very dark place, however she doesn’t retell the entire Fiendish story. It’s seamless and organic and feels very natural to the reader making Not Broken work well as a standalone. I didn’t personally read Fiendish prior to reading Not Broken, however I didn’t feel like I missed anything.
I will, however, admit to a grievous mistake I made in an effort to keep other readers from following my path. I spent probably the first 5 – 10 chapters slightly (okay, sometimes very) angry with Malcolm for pushing Calida too much, taking away her ability to make decisions, and a whole host of other things. Dear reader, this is an egregious error. Just love Mal. Just love him from the very first word because I promise you will regret ever being upset with him. There are things he has to learn along the way and he does. And he is perfect and amazing. He also belongs to me so, look but don’t touch.
Calida has a journey of her own in Not Broken. Finding her voice, her worth, and discovering that she deserves a love that doesn’t hurt. Most of the time as she winds through her path of self-realization, Malcolm is a strong and steady and patient partner. Occasionally he pushes, sometimes too hard, but sometimes just enough to pull Calida out of the dark places her mind wanders.
In addition to developing amazing and connectible leading characters, Ms. James very accurately portrays Calida’s rebirth. Growing from abuse isn’t an uphill climb, it’s more like a roller coaster. There are good days and bad days and awful days. Calida’s first breakthrough moment was so heartbreakingly realistic it has stuck with me ever since.
I spent an entire night, wide awake, just to finish this book. It grabbed my heart, squeezed, twisted, and wouldn’t let it go.
Can we also discuss the ridiculously hot sex scenes? Yes, multiple. Yes, amazing. Yes, Malcolm is still mine.
If I could possibly give Not Broken anything above five stars, I’d do it. You need to make sure you RUN to your computer, tablet, or phone and buy this book ASAP. You will not regret one moment of Malcolm and Calida’s amazing journey from extreme pain to breathtaking love.
November 4, 2018
After reading NOT BROKEN: THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER by Meka James, I needed to take a few hours and really digest the book before writing this review. This was not an easy book to read, and certainly not a formulaic romance. The love is there from page one, but it doesn’t start to fit together right away. As I described to a romance group I belong to, NOT BROKEN is sort of like an iced coffee—delicious but dark and bitter, with a huge spoonful of sugar lumped on the bottom, just waiting for a swift stir to bring the sweetness to the surface.
Calida, oh Calida. My heart broke for her. Our heroine has been through a horrible ordeal, and now, two years later, she’s still suffering with the memories, day by day, night by night. She has scars, literal and figurative, that nobody in the story seems to quite grasp, not even our hero Malcolm. Not her sister, her best friend, or her parents. The reader though, while in Calida’s POV chapters, felt everything, knew everything. The brilliance of the writing is that when Ms. James puts us in Mal’s point of view, we learn that as much as he loves Calida and as well-intentioned as he is, Mal Just. Doesn’t. Get. It. Not at first. And that was frustrating, because we, the reader felt her suffering and knew she was trying so hard.
But, by facing her fears, learning to trust Mal, and believing in herself (and her no-nonsense therapist) Calida starts to figure out how to pull herself together. I loved her, and thought she was one of the bravest heroines I’ve ever read. And although he can be a bit pushy, Mal grows on me too, as he learns what Calida needs from him. I adored that his loyalty to her never faltered, no matter her actions and reactions, from page one. Their relationship is complex and doesn’t follow a traditional romance path, but it’s intense, it’s sexy, and it’s beautiful.
Ms. James is a wonderful writer, and I imagine that NOT BROKEN wasn’t an easy book to craft. Just reading it, I felt like I was partaking in an intense therapy session. But there are moments of lightness that Ms. James weaves through the book which show, what I think, is the main theme of the story: hope.
From Mal and Calida’s intense sex scenes, to Mal’s super-sweet relationship with Calida’s adorable son, Shawn, to Calida’s relationship with her best friend (I loved when they went underwear shopping!), and even her budding relationship with her somewhat-crappy sister, NOT BROKEN is the journey of Calida’s survival, courage, and hope. All throughout the pages, as she learns to communicate what she needs to the people in her life, the reader holds onto hope that Calida will get her happily ever after. That hope is not misplaced either, because although it’s an emotional roller coaster, NOT BROKEN eventually stirs that iced coffee, and the sugar rises, and the reader is left satisfied and with a smile on their face.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy intense, darker, emotional, character-based romance and women’s fiction, NOT BROKEN: THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER was a joy to read. Not because it was a joyful story, but because I know these characters and their love will be engrained in my heart forever—and that’s what makes a great book.
Thanks for the ride, Ms. James! I look forward to reading THE LISTS to get more Mal and Calida, post-happily ever after!
Calida, oh Calida. My heart broke for her. Our heroine has been through a horrible ordeal, and now, two years later, she’s still suffering with the memories, day by day, night by night. She has scars, literal and figurative, that nobody in the story seems to quite grasp, not even our hero Malcolm. Not her sister, her best friend, or her parents. The reader though, while in Calida’s POV chapters, felt everything, knew everything. The brilliance of the writing is that when Ms. James puts us in Mal’s point of view, we learn that as much as he loves Calida and as well-intentioned as he is, Mal Just. Doesn’t. Get. It. Not at first. And that was frustrating, because we, the reader felt her suffering and knew she was trying so hard.
But, by facing her fears, learning to trust Mal, and believing in herself (and her no-nonsense therapist) Calida starts to figure out how to pull herself together. I loved her, and thought she was one of the bravest heroines I’ve ever read. And although he can be a bit pushy, Mal grows on me too, as he learns what Calida needs from him. I adored that his loyalty to her never faltered, no matter her actions and reactions, from page one. Their relationship is complex and doesn’t follow a traditional romance path, but it’s intense, it’s sexy, and it’s beautiful.
Ms. James is a wonderful writer, and I imagine that NOT BROKEN wasn’t an easy book to craft. Just reading it, I felt like I was partaking in an intense therapy session. But there are moments of lightness that Ms. James weaves through the book which show, what I think, is the main theme of the story: hope.
From Mal and Calida’s intense sex scenes, to Mal’s super-sweet relationship with Calida’s adorable son, Shawn, to Calida’s relationship with her best friend (I loved when they went underwear shopping!), and even her budding relationship with her somewhat-crappy sister, NOT BROKEN is the journey of Calida’s survival, courage, and hope. All throughout the pages, as she learns to communicate what she needs to the people in her life, the reader holds onto hope that Calida will get her happily ever after. That hope is not misplaced either, because although it’s an emotional roller coaster, NOT BROKEN eventually stirs that iced coffee, and the sugar rises, and the reader is left satisfied and with a smile on their face.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy intense, darker, emotional, character-based romance and women’s fiction, NOT BROKEN: THE HAPPILY EVER AFTER was a joy to read. Not because it was a joyful story, but because I know these characters and their love will be engrained in my heart forever—and that’s what makes a great book.
Thanks for the ride, Ms. James! I look forward to reading THE LISTS to get more Mal and Calida, post-happily ever after!
December 3, 2018
She is so broken from an abusive relationship and he has been there through it all. He has loved her so much and he wants to help her recover. The wounds to do very deep but can he help her? See if he can help her recover and learn love is real
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2018
This incredibly moving story deals with resilience of the spirit and of the body. The heart can mend and embrace new beginnings. The trauma and heartache that Calida endoures with her shockingly abusive husband who uses physical and mental abuse to control her. Makes you cry and wish for a better tomorrow.You will fall in love with Malcolm.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 8, 2017
Not Broken is not your typical romance. It's so real, it's raw at times. But that also makes the highs more sweet.
Calida is healing (or not healing) from the trauma her husband Seth put her through, while trying to sort out her feelings for her friend Malcolm, who very much wants a romantic relationship with her.
She's also raising her 1 year old son. Yes, moms can be romance heroines! And have sex.
I didn't know Calida and Seth's story was written (see James' novel Fiendish), but not reading the first book did not detract from the reading experience of Not Broken, which could be a standalone novel.
I like a little mystery so I didn't mind piecing together what had happened to Calida by the author's hints and slow reveal (Malcolm is also for the most part unaware of some of the darker things that happened to Calida until she opens up to him).
Malcolm has issues to overcome too (minor in comparison but there can only be so much DARK in one book), and he grows as a character, too.
I have to mention the fist person narrative and James's skill in this area. The chapters move between Calida's and Malcolm's point of view, and each has a very distinct voice, a forte of the author's.
And her novel is well edited for grammar and punctuation. It's a smooth reading experience.
It is a touch on the long side, because Calida takes steps forward and backward and sideways on her journey. And that's not a bad thing, but it's not a quick read.
Spoiler: (or not, it is in the subtitle) This is a HEA book. ❤️❤️❤️ So yay!
But Trigger warnings: Calida deals with the memories of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the hands of her dead husband. There are explicit sex scenes in this book. (Really well done, too. 🔥🔥🔥🔥)
Calida is healing (or not healing) from the trauma her husband Seth put her through, while trying to sort out her feelings for her friend Malcolm, who very much wants a romantic relationship with her.
She's also raising her 1 year old son. Yes, moms can be romance heroines! And have sex.
I didn't know Calida and Seth's story was written (see James' novel Fiendish), but not reading the first book did not detract from the reading experience of Not Broken, which could be a standalone novel.
I like a little mystery so I didn't mind piecing together what had happened to Calida by the author's hints and slow reveal (Malcolm is also for the most part unaware of some of the darker things that happened to Calida until she opens up to him).
Malcolm has issues to overcome too (minor in comparison but there can only be so much DARK in one book), and he grows as a character, too.
I have to mention the fist person narrative and James's skill in this area. The chapters move between Calida's and Malcolm's point of view, and each has a very distinct voice, a forte of the author's.
And her novel is well edited for grammar and punctuation. It's a smooth reading experience.
It is a touch on the long side, because Calida takes steps forward and backward and sideways on her journey. And that's not a bad thing, but it's not a quick read.
Spoiler: (or not, it is in the subtitle) This is a HEA book. ❤️❤️❤️ So yay!
But Trigger warnings: Calida deals with the memories of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the hands of her dead husband. There are explicit sex scenes in this book. (Really well done, too. 🔥🔥🔥🔥)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2018
This was a story of heartbreak and healing, beautifully written from each of the main character’s perspectives. The story of Calida’s tragic past comes to us in waves as she works through the guilt and fear that allows her deceased husband to retain control of her life. Malcolm, a man from her past, is patient and understanding, wanting to give Calida the love she deserves and hopes to be part of a future with her and her son.
One character is crippled by the past, the other is blinded by the future, and they realize along the way that they need to look below the emotional surface the other shows. There can be pain in a smile, or fear laced in a joke and it is their journey to understanding how to truly listen that allows them each to heal. I loved Malcolm’s easy-going nature, even when he was frustrated and confused; his love for Calida really came through.
This is a steamy and passionate read; one that I’m sure won’t be my last by this author.
One character is crippled by the past, the other is blinded by the future, and they realize along the way that they need to look below the emotional surface the other shows. There can be pain in a smile, or fear laced in a joke and it is their journey to understanding how to truly listen that allows them each to heal. I loved Malcolm’s easy-going nature, even when he was frustrated and confused; his love for Calida really came through.
This is a steamy and passionate read; one that I’m sure won’t be my last by this author.
April 15, 2023
So far it’s interesting but I have no idea why these two people are trying to be together. I know it’s going to get better and they will end up together. I just don’t understand using this much trauma as a plot device. It’s such an overused narrative and I think I’m just exhausted with it. Calida is so fucked up and broken, so why is she trying to be in a relationship? It’s OK not to be in a relationship. It’s as if being single is such a bad thing, but she just has to be with Malcolm. There’s nothing wrong with being single, but alas, this is a romance book. And Malcolm is having to do so much damn emotional labor to put up with all of her trauma and BS hot / cold behavior that it doesn’t even feel like it’s worth it. So I’m not sure where this book is going. Other than I know they will eventually be together, but so far I’m sick of both of them. UPDATE: DNF. Too much romanticized brokenness. 🫠🫠They got on my damn nerves.
February 11, 2019
A Book Bar Review 🍷🍷🍷🍷
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always persevere. Love never fails.
~~~1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Whoa…talk about an emotional roller coaster, but what I like most about this one was it centered around the heroine’s healing process after being damaged from a previously relationship. We all know the sayings “You can’t help who you love”, but then we should also remember “When someone shows you who they are, believe them”. Physical and emotional violence in a relationship is very dangerous and nothing to toy with.
I enjoyed the interaction with these characters, if you paid attention it was definitely lessons in this one. We start this one with the hard truths of a woman, Calida who after an abusive past, she doesn’t believe herself worthy; of forgiveness, love, happiness, doesn’t feel safe to trust herself or anyone else and she question her ability to be good mother to the child of her abuser.
Calida walks through this journey being a people pleaser, only showing what she felt others wanted to see, while suppressing what her real problems were sinking deeper into her illness. We all know that we can only hold a temporary barrier down for so long before the foundation breaks and things begin to rush forward. A few times I questioned whether those closes to her really knew her at all, didn’t they see signs?
I really like the relationship between Malcolm and Calida. Malcolm is Calida’s childhood friend whom I believe they've always carried a torch for each other. For Malcolm, Calida is the one he slept on, but once she begins this healing journey, he’s determined to be front and center making sure she knows he is not going anywhere. He is prepared to love her through her pain and make sure she is whole again. We see through Malcolm’s story it’s not easy loving someone through their mess and it takes a great deal of strength to penetrate the protective barriers she erupted. I also loved his acceptance and relationship he had with her son.
The author did a great job with making these characters feel real, with their flaws and all. I look forward to more of these two.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always persevere. Love never fails.
~~~1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Whoa…talk about an emotional roller coaster, but what I like most about this one was it centered around the heroine’s healing process after being damaged from a previously relationship. We all know the sayings “You can’t help who you love”, but then we should also remember “When someone shows you who they are, believe them”. Physical and emotional violence in a relationship is very dangerous and nothing to toy with.
I enjoyed the interaction with these characters, if you paid attention it was definitely lessons in this one. We start this one with the hard truths of a woman, Calida who after an abusive past, she doesn’t believe herself worthy; of forgiveness, love, happiness, doesn’t feel safe to trust herself or anyone else and she question her ability to be good mother to the child of her abuser.
Calida walks through this journey being a people pleaser, only showing what she felt others wanted to see, while suppressing what her real problems were sinking deeper into her illness. We all know that we can only hold a temporary barrier down for so long before the foundation breaks and things begin to rush forward. A few times I questioned whether those closes to her really knew her at all, didn’t they see signs?
I really like the relationship between Malcolm and Calida. Malcolm is Calida’s childhood friend whom I believe they've always carried a torch for each other. For Malcolm, Calida is the one he slept on, but once she begins this healing journey, he’s determined to be front and center making sure she knows he is not going anywhere. He is prepared to love her through her pain and make sure she is whole again. We see through Malcolm’s story it’s not easy loving someone through their mess and it takes a great deal of strength to penetrate the protective barriers she erupted. I also loved his acceptance and relationship he had with her son.
The author did a great job with making these characters feel real, with their flaws and all. I look forward to more of these two.
February 15, 2019
Two years after surviving an abusive marriage, Calida is still a mental prisoner to her past. However, her best friend's brother, Malcolm, who has been by her side all this time, is determined to show her the kind of unconditional love she deserves.
From the very first page of the book, I found myself engrossed with Malcolm and a grand gesture he makes to get Calida to see him as more than just a friend and with Calida who hints at the darkness that still lies within her. I was drawn in by Calida's story and the sheer force of Malcolm's love. He is the kind of guy you read about and wish he were real. There is a cast of secondary characters in the form of their families whose mix of personalities added an extra layer of reality to the story. Calida's 1-year-old child had me giggling and remembering my experience with raising toddlers. One of my favourite characters is Calida's sister who I hope gets a story at some point.
The one thing missing for me was a question that never got answered. As the blurb says, Malcolm was Calida's first crush, and Malcolm seems to have been in love with her for a long time. Given this, I didn't get how they never got together before. It would have been nice to see that aspect of the story.
The sex scenes were hot! At the end of the story, we see a positive transformation in both her and Malcolm. I thoroughly enjoyed Calida's journey of healing, learning to love again and accepting that she deserves love.
It's been a while since I read a book I didn't want to put down. This story was a good balance of emotion, humour, and spice. I definitely recommend it.
From the very first page of the book, I found myself engrossed with Malcolm and a grand gesture he makes to get Calida to see him as more than just a friend and with Calida who hints at the darkness that still lies within her. I was drawn in by Calida's story and the sheer force of Malcolm's love. He is the kind of guy you read about and wish he were real. There is a cast of secondary characters in the form of their families whose mix of personalities added an extra layer of reality to the story. Calida's 1-year-old child had me giggling and remembering my experience with raising toddlers. One of my favourite characters is Calida's sister who I hope gets a story at some point.
The one thing missing for me was a question that never got answered. As the blurb says, Malcolm was Calida's first crush, and Malcolm seems to have been in love with her for a long time. Given this, I didn't get how they never got together before. It would have been nice to see that aspect of the story.
The sex scenes were hot! At the end of the story, we see a positive transformation in both her and Malcolm. I thoroughly enjoyed Calida's journey of healing, learning to love again and accepting that she deserves love.
It's been a while since I read a book I didn't want to put down. This story was a good balance of emotion, humour, and spice. I definitely recommend it.
March 5, 2023
Where do I begin with this review? Well, I guess I should admit that I did indeed skim the rest of the book so I could make it end. While the story started off good, oh boy did that level of enjoyment drop.
What I enjoyed
1. The angst was really good in the beginning. Between her trying to navigate life after her trauma, the expectations of others, and developing a relationship…I truly enjoyed watching her attempt to balance them.
What I didn’t enjoy
1. There were SEVERAL moments where the characters mentioned off the page events that left me so confused. I did a quick google search a few times to make sure I didn’t mistakenly read the second book in a series. That was annoying because I would have enjoyed to read about them, even in a flashback.
2. My BIGGEST pet peeve with my angsty romances is this attempt to make spice and romantic love serve as indicators that the trauma survivor is healing/they are painted as coping skills. Granted, she is in therapy for the whole book, however, home girl shift from having panic attacks from SA to wanting to suck him off in the car was…a choice. In the beginning of the book I enjoyed the romantic interest providing support and her being adamant about not wanting to be rushed into a relationship, then she shifted to telling this dude in so many words that she never wanted him to leave and crying about him being her lifeline. I’m glad she got her HEA, I just would have liked to see it happen a bit more smoothly without her holding on to him life a life vest. While co-dependence is a realistic trauma response, I could have done without it taking over the entire 3rd act of the book.
What I enjoyed
1. The angst was really good in the beginning. Between her trying to navigate life after her trauma, the expectations of others, and developing a relationship…I truly enjoyed watching her attempt to balance them.
What I didn’t enjoy
1. There were SEVERAL moments where the characters mentioned off the page events that left me so confused. I did a quick google search a few times to make sure I didn’t mistakenly read the second book in a series. That was annoying because I would have enjoyed to read about them, even in a flashback.
2. My BIGGEST pet peeve with my angsty romances is this attempt to make spice and romantic love serve as indicators that the trauma survivor is healing/they are painted as coping skills. Granted, she is in therapy for the whole book, however, home girl shift from having panic attacks from SA to wanting to suck him off in the car was…a choice. In the beginning of the book I enjoyed the romantic interest providing support and her being adamant about not wanting to be rushed into a relationship, then she shifted to telling this dude in so many words that she never wanted him to leave and crying about him being her lifeline. I’m glad she got her HEA, I just would have liked to see it happen a bit more smoothly without her holding on to him life a life vest. While co-dependence is a realistic trauma response, I could have done without it taking over the entire 3rd act of the book.
September 25, 2023
Good One
Macy worked my last nerve. I almost stopped reading because of it.
Malcolm was no better. His inner thoughts were focus on sex tooo much it was annoying. Then he was constantly yelling at her. Not paying attention to how she was acting. He would have known something was up if he paid attention more and not make it about him.
Calida needed more therapy than she was getting. My word. Poor girl.
The last 5 chapters the book move supper fast. Just glossing over some points that should have been wrote about more. Almost 50% of the book was sex. Not that I am against sex in the book but when it starts to feel like every other sentence sex is mention its a bit much. I found myself fast forwarding through those parts.
Over all though I like this book but wish it would have went in a little deeper with the subject matter and not have most of the chapters about them either thinking about sex, having sex, or talking about sex.
I love Meka James writing style and I would read any book by here. :)
Macy worked my last nerve. I almost stopped reading because of it.
Malcolm was no better. His inner thoughts were focus on sex tooo much it was annoying. Then he was constantly yelling at her. Not paying attention to how she was acting. He would have known something was up if he paid attention more and not make it about him.
Calida needed more therapy than she was getting. My word. Poor girl.
The last 5 chapters the book move supper fast. Just glossing over some points that should have been wrote about more. Almost 50% of the book was sex. Not that I am against sex in the book but when it starts to feel like every other sentence sex is mention its a bit much. I found myself fast forwarding through those parts.
Over all though I like this book but wish it would have went in a little deeper with the subject matter and not have most of the chapters about them either thinking about sex, having sex, or talking about sex.
I love Meka James writing style and I would read any book by here. :)
April 2, 2020
Not Broken is a heart-wrenching story of second chances and unfaltering love. Calida is recovering from an extremely abusive relationship and even though time has passed, she finds it hard to forgive herself. Calida's inner dialogue is heartbreaking as she struggles to move on with a life she feels she doesn't deserve. Her feelings of emptiness and pain were scattered across the pages and the reader feels them as if are their own. Malcolm is so patient and loving--honestly, we need more Malcolms in the world! Where are they?? :) I sometimes found him a bit too perfect but romance novels are an escape and we all write and/or read the heroes we want--and, man, is he a hero! I loved his character. They eventually get their happy ending and it's so beautiful. A wonderful romance!
November 1, 2019
Picking up the pieces of a broken heart and shattered soul. This book is a standalone however, there is a first part to this book that I didn't read book which is the backstory of Calida and Seth. I did feel a little lost at times, wanting to know what Calida went through but the author does a good job with explanations so that it makes sense without reading the other book. This is classic story of how love can save someone. I was occasionally frustrated with Calida and Malcolm and his ideas of grandeur with someone who has successfully built a wall around herself but the ending was satisfying and I really enjoyed the authors style of writing.
June 4, 2023
Wheww… Malcolm has the patience of JOB and deserves a medal! Most are not in a space where they can wait while someone they want to be in a relationship with heals. Ginger needed kid gloves for all she had endured. This was a heavy book but with so much romance and love. When I tell you a woman will bend and not break!! This book right here was the definition of that. To be abused, locked up, have sex forced on her and all by a man thats her HUSBAND! Malcolm truly help heal her, but Ginger truly did the work.
November 1, 2018
This book has a prequel but the author made the backstory clear enough to grasp (and without bogging things with info dump!) so it can be read as a standalone, which is what I did. Not Broken is a beautiful story of the reclaiming of one's life after an abusive relationship. Ms. James shows the horror well without going into graphic detail. It's not an easy road, but Calida finds her way. I was rooting so hard for Calida & Malcolm, and thrilled when they got their HEA.
October 31, 2019
I'm going to start my reveiw with saying the topic of the book would not have been one I would normally read. That being said, this book kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the progression of Calida and Malcolm's relationship. I think the best part of the book was Calida's transformation. I don't want to give too much away. I loved the characters and hope to read more from Ms. James.
November 24, 2018
What an emotional and heartfelt story! I loved Malcolm and Calida's journey to happiness. It broke my heart reading what Calida has been through. To overcome everything and end a wonderful man's arms was truly a leap of faith and learning to trust. This story is very well developed with some great characters.
November 27, 2018
A lovely, emotional book about rebuilding ones life and taking care of oneself. I especially enjoyed how carefully the author dealt with the mental health issues. Calida and Malcolm's relationship had such a wonderful arc. They really grew together through her recovery and self-discovery. Also, the sex scenes were pretty darn hot (and fantastic). An excellent read.
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