According to my grandma, a broken clock being right twice a day meant that in any given situation, perfect timing only happens twice. I fell for William Grayson in a matter of minutes. The connection between us was undeniable, but our timing was off. I was dating someone and by the time I was single again, he was taken. And a year later, when we finally got together, it was clear that we were soulmates. But circumstances out of our control cut our time short. We were a little older, a little wiser, when our paths crossed again. I was entering a new phase of independence in both my career and my life. He was growing professionally and moving to a new city. And even though our timing was off, it was still clear that we were soulmates. But for the second time, circumstances out of our control cut our time short. My grandma was a wise woman, but my love life taught me that there’s no such thing as perfect timing. There’s just timing… Because nothing is perfect. There’s just right now… Because tomorrow isn’t promised. For as long as we’d known each other, William and I just wanted to be together. It was as simple and as complicated as that.
- Love this book so much! Danielle Allen has some of the BEST banter! It feels so realistic and you can easily fall in love with the characters. Even though the two books I’ve read of hers are 200 pages or less, the stories feel like full books with complete plot lines which can be hard to create in shorter books. - Her books literally give the culture and I love being able to see myself in the way the characters navigate life. Would have loved for the story to be longer, not because it didn’t wrap up perfectly but because I was enjoying the book so much. - This story felt so fast paced and had so many things going on, but was super easy to follow. So excited for her new book this summer!! If you’ve never read anything from her, you have to pick up a book asap!
No book has ever made me cry, but as I write this review I am literally shedding free flowing tears. In all honesty, I didn't know what to expect with Broken Clocks. Yes, I read the synopsis. Yes, I'm aware of Danielle Allen's writing style. But still... I wasn't entirely sure how she was going to allow William and Layla's story to play out. From their first chapter together to the last they held me captivated. I know all too well the pain Layla felt because of... well... let me not give any spoilers. This soul wrenching book is sensual, emotional and cannot put it down good! I felt every emotion. Laughed at every joke. Experienced every pang. Felt weak when Layla did. Wanted to punch and kiss William a few times. God. I'm just... so in my feelings I don't even know what to do with life right now. I didn't think Danielle would be able to top Nevermore as my favorite book by her. I didn't think she'd be able to pen something that would have me, a fellow author, so captivated that I couldn't even put the book down. But she did. Broken Clocks is that book. It's the book that makes you appreciate love, life and second chances. The book that makes you want to go out and live. Love. Wholeheartedly. Freely. Recklessly. Every time the time is 9:27 I'll think about William and Layla, and they will inspire me in more ways than Danielle will ever know.
Listen I finished this book two days ago but I needed to sit with and settle my emotions before I could write this review! This was one of the most beautifully written yet heart breaking stories I’ve read this year. It’s on the same level as “Drowning Without You”, “Timeless Love” and “Gravity”. One thing I’ve learned from all of these books is that time is not your friend. All you really have is TODAY. Make that phone call, kiss your lover, go after your dreams. Whatever it is, “now is not the right time” should never be a reason why you don’t do something.
For Will and Layla, they knew they had a deep, soul stirring connection from the very first time they met but it never seemed to be “the right time”. There were so many things that drew them together and things that pulled them apart. They struggled so much along their journey and just couldn’t seem to get on the same page. I’m happy that they were able to get out of their own way and experience much of what they set out to do with and for each other before it was too late.
This is a story that will attach itself to you and never let go! Every time I see 9:27 on a clock or 9/27 on a calendar, I will remember Layla and Will’s story!
“If you really live, really laugh and really love, you’ll have no regrets in life”
Not me thinking I was about to get into a quick smutty black love story and ended up in emotional turmoil instead😭😭 Sometimes we pick up a book not knowing it might be everything that we needed at the time. Definitely some life lessons dropped in this one🩷
At first, this book was just okay, but the further I got into the story I became fully invested and I felt a real connection to the characters. The banter throughout this book was well written. This is an emotional read at times, but the ending of this book oh my goodness I couldn’t stop the tears streaming down my face. Not quite the ending I was expecting and once I turned the last page and wiped the tears I just for a bit to gather my thoughts. This book is worth reading, but do keep the tissues handy. It’s a love story with depth, spice and emotion. Looking forward to reading more by this author in the future. Highly recommended.
I love a good angsty romance where it takes a couple years to get together. In this one, Layla and Will were madly in love with each other, but they could not be together and broke things off. Now, they reconnect and are finally ready to give their relationship a serious chance. But something pops up in both Will and Layla's lives that make it hard for them to be open and trust one another. This one was definitely angsty because you wanted Will and Layla to find their happy with one another, but it was a situation of right person, wrong time. This is definitely took me on an emotional journey!
This Book Right Here......This is a Beautifully Written story of True Adult Love....Both Will & Layliah were truly adults.....when the two of them finally start to date and you see how connected they are from the very start, I was truly rooting for them from the start, even praying that we would find out that Molly the model's baby wasn't Will's baby...Nevertheless, no matter the obstacle the two of them seem to persist. I love that each of them were able to admit their faults and the other allowed it without judgement and continue to provide support and love....This is my first story from this author and I was definitely impressed.....please get your tissue ready...trust me you will need it....Usually, this is not my kind of story, the romance part definitely, but everything else....NO....But, the writing coupled with the narration....OUTSTANDING...I had to be fair and honest when rating and reviewing......Ms. Wesleigh as always did a PHENOMENAL Job bring all of the characters of this story to life. Bravo Wesleigh!!!!
This book gutted me. I was not prepared 🥺😩 & despite that it was amazing.
The connection & love between William & Layla was felt. They were truly the love of each other’s lives. Really sad it ended how it did but there was a lesson to be learned. A message the author was trying to convey.
“Broken Clocks is a reminder to appreciate life. It’s a reminder to appreciate love. It’s a reminder to appreciate time.”
I’m literally in tears. BOOHOO CRYING. WHAT!? i don’t even know what to rate this i just need to process what the hell i just went through 😭😭
ok I processed, and my goodness what a story!! This is a fast paced, spicy, right person wrong time romance. It’s message is that tomorrow isn’t promised so you have to live everyday to the fullest, and if you meet the love of your life no matter how hard it is don’t waste time and be with them if you can. It kinda starts like mid-story if that makes sense. so the couple had already been together and broken up and are trying to figure out how to be together since they love each other so much but things just keep getting in the way.
The FMC went through it in this book like … she couldn’t catch a break. But such is life i guess 🤣😩
Overall, I did enjoy the ride this story took me on. There were so many twist and turns. It’s a heartbreakingly beautiful story and i will just say grab your tissues!
Listen!!! Broken Clocks had me in my feelings from beginning to end. Danielle Allen truly wrote the hell out of this book. Layla and William’s story is one of those unforgettable love stories that makes you believe in timing, second chances, and fate even when it breaks your heart along the way.
This book gave me everything from love, joy, frustration, heartbreak, and hope. By the time I reached the last page, I was in full-blown tears. It’s emotional, it’s beautiful, and it’s definitely a story that will stay with me for a long time. If you’re looking for a love story that will make you feel, this is it.
“Broken Clocks” by Danielle Allen was the emotional rollercoaster that I had no clue I was even boarding. Will and Layla’s love was so pure and organic. I loved them together. The underlying message of this book for me is that there is no perfect time. Waiting for the perfect opportunity may mean lost time, lost opportunities. The characters were very well developed. I really enjoyed the writing style. This book was unpredictable. I thought it would go one way but then I was completely thrown for a loop.
I haven’t read all of Danielle Allen’s catalog yet, but “Broken Clocks” was different from the books that I’ve read by her thus far. As emotional as it was, I still enjoyed the journey, the story, and the love between Will and Layla. Danielle Allen states that, “Broken Clocks is a reminder to appreciate life. It is a reminder to appreciate love. It is a reminder to appreciate time.” I wholeheartedly agree. 9:27.
I skimmed this book at around 72% because it felt very repetitive. I’m not gonna lie there was so many moments that had me in tears but i expected it to get better and it never did. William apologizes, she forgives him, takes him back, can’t handle it and they do it over and over again. And that ending… really😮💨I am so disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was a well written book. Definitely wasn’t expecting the story to play out the way that it did. Some great lessons and reminders about life. It was a good read, but very emotional and sad.
"But when it comes to love, don't get so hung up on the timing. Just enjoy the time. When you're with the perfect person, there will never be enough of it."
Where to begin with this review? It doesn't happen too often that I sit and stare when I finish the last word of a book. Broken Clocks did something to my spirit that I can't quite describe. It went beyond a book and made me think about if I use time as a crutch aka an excuse as to why I keep love at an arm's distance. The powerful connection that Broken Clocks makes to a person's own life is what elevates it from a typical romance novel to a powerful piece of literary work.
Layla and William's love story is one that plenty of folks are way too familiar with. Two people meet, they date, decide to be "friends," and that goes left of center then they cross paths again. Allen has perfectly captured how regardless of circumstances if two people are truly meant to be together then they will find a way. The dialogue, the cadence, and the emotional rollercoasters are perfect. I mean absolutely perfect!
Some detractors will say, "Ugh, another romance novel. They are so unrealistic." And, I tell those folks to quit being such a sourpuss. Love is special. Love is powerful. Love will make you have a different air about you. Broken Clocks is one of those rare works of fiction that makes a reader believe that love can be and should be felt in real life because it can literally change your life. Back to December was my favorite book by Danielle Allen but Broken Clocks pleasantly surpasses it and now moves her onto my favorite authors list.
I can not believe the level of talent that was displayed in this book. I am so grateful to have been given the chance to read Broken Clocks, Layla and William had such an amazing amount of chemistry from the very beginning of the book. Their connection was just palpable. There were so many obstacles that they had to face and let me tell you Layla was stronger than I could have ever been, I admired her a lot. William's love and loyalty is one of the most admirable qualities within him. The ending totally ruined me. Grab tissues if you are a wuss like me, I’m telling you, y’all are going to cry!!
Definitely will read other books by this author in the future!!
This book was okay. Ms Allen is a great writer and I love most of her work but this story felt repetitive and slow. I couldnt connect with the characters or their love story. And just when they got over their hurdles, there was the ending. Not my cup of tea but I'm sure many will enjoy.
This book was extremely well written and the story line and moral was perfection. I kept thinking that I knew what was going to happen and I had it all wrong. Very unpredictable! Although I hate sad books, I can't deny the writers talent here. Will definitely be reading more of this author's work.
...William and Layla's love story is such a beautiful reminder of how tomorrow isn't promised and why it's so important to live for today, be present in the now while unconditionally loving the people who love you.
William's words and Layla's letter at the end really touched my heart in so many ways. What a bittersweet fairy tale love story!
Love has a way of knocking on your door when you least expect it. I love the fantasy of love but know the reality of love that a deep love can bring. In Broken Clocks Mrs. Allen takes the reader on one hell of a roller coaster ride of emotions with love, hurt and sometimes hate. The main characters are William, Layla and Molly the Model. William and Layla are loveable and at first glance you know there is chemistry and they are soulmates with a love that runs deep. The tug of war on love between these two will have you loving them and hating them at times. The interaction with Molly the Model has me wanting to step in and show her who’s really the boss but I know Layla’s best friend had that covered. Mrs. Allen does an amazing job with all of the twists, turns and hills while allowing them to tell their story but what she doesn’t prepare you for is the ultimate drop right before the roller coaster ride ends. I dragged finishing this book because I knew something was going to happen I just was not prepared for what happened. Mrs. Danielle Allen I believe you may have created a stalker in me with this one. I have so many questions that I don’t know where to begin. To all of my fellow readers out there run and run quickly to pick up your copy of Broken Clocks...Better yet, hit that one-click button, grab a hot cup tea and get ready for your ride.
Going to try and not to cry while writing this review but if I cry I cry! What a beautiful second chance love this story was. Layla and William were truly each other’s worlds, but due to unfortunate circumstances, their timing never seemed to be right. Layla was a strong career-driven woman who believed that her grandmother's old phrase “a broken clock is perfect twice a day” was a good way to succeed in life. Unfortunately, with love, that phrase seemed to never be true. William is a Civil Engineer (this made me so excited because I am too! ) who is trying to get to the next level in his career and his relationship with Layla. While trying to win Layla, several unforeseen events occur in William's world that tries to force a wedge between him and Layla. This whirlwind love is just as beautiful as it is heartbreaking. The biggest lesson both Layla and William learn is to live every day like it’s your last. Timing is never perfect when it’s meant to be. I loved this book for that reminder alone. I give this book 5 stars for the writing and just pulling all the emotion out of me through the ups and downs of this rollercoaster love. Also, shout out to Danielle Allen who let me cry in her DMs after I finished reading! I was a wreck. I recommend this beautiful story, but do warn that you may feel some heartbreak!
**complimentary copy received from author for review purposes
Have you ever read a Danielle Allen novel? If you haven't, go get one, doesn't matter which one, any of them will do. You'll be hooked.
If you've read more than one, you know that you never get the same thing with any of them. Each one is unique, whether it's the situations, the emotions, or the humor each can hold their own.
Broken Clocks is no different. I've read the majority of Danielle's books and each one touches me differently, but this one.
THIS ONE.
This one had me up and down emotionally, over and over and over again. She finally did it. She made me cry. (and she's probably pretty smug about that)
It's great ya'll. READ IT! Let me try to sum it up a little better.
I stared at my keypad for a minute because I wasn’t quite sure what to say. Whew! The clique “life is too short “ is an absolute understatement. If I took nothing else from this story it was Time. We spend so much time planning, overthinking and over analyzing that we forget to Live. Everyone’s story will end but when it’s all said and done what will my story say? Will it be filled with an abundance of love, happiness and prosperity or regret and wishful thinking because of the risks I was too scared to take a chance on. I want to Live, even if it’s not for a long time. I want to Live! With no regrets, no what if’s, no “Maybe I should have” I want to LIVE
This book was not what I expected at all. It took you on an emotional ride. William and Layla struggle to keep and find love even though they are hit with issue after issue. This book had me in my emotions from beginning to end
Broken Clocks took me on an emotional rollercoaster that I won’t ever forget! I honestly had no idea what to expect when I first started this book by Danielle Allen. I just found out about her in my quest for more diverse reads in the romance genre. I enjoyed reading about characters that I could identify with but I had no idea I would also find a book that would rip me to shreds as I read. I was stunned after I finished reading. Stunned. I had tears in my eyes as I typed this review.
Allen sucked me in with her writing from the very beginning and right up to the very end. I read this book in 5 hours. Her words were poetic and magnetic. This book serves as a wonderful reminder of how we need to live our lives with no regrets. Reach for the stars. Seize the moment. Love and be loved. Take chances. This is a book that will stay with me for a very long time. Thank you Danielle Allen for providing me with my first 5 star read of the year! For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
It's been a while since I've read a story that had me stuck once I finished the book and Broken Clocks did just that. The story of Layla and William was written perfectly. The story flowed and the character development was on point. These two characters went through a lot but the love between them was undeniable. This story had my heart thumping, my emotions at a all time high and I didn't want to stop reading because I was so engrossed in the character's lives. Although I own many of Danielle Allen's books I have no idea why I never read them (the book hoarder in me I guess 🤷🏾.) After reading Broken Clocks I'll definitely be reading her other books. One thing for sure anytime I see 9:27 I will always be reminded of Layla and William.
Broken Clocks reminded of a few things... Broken Clocks reminded me to live in the moment. Broken Clocks reminded me that tomorrow is never promised. Broken Clocks reminded me to focus on the positive and not the negative. Broken Clocks reminded me that the past is the past and focus on the present. Last but not least Broken Clocks taught me that a Broken Clock is always right twice a day.
Kudos to Danielle Allen for writing such powerful book. If you like love stories this is the book for you. If you are a fan of Danielle Allen and haven't read Broken Clocks you should. If you haven't read a Danielle Allen book I suggest you start.
It's very fitting that I finished this book on what would have been my late Grandmother's 89th birthday. This touched me deep in my soul in a way I can't explain. It felt like an honor to go on this journey with both Layla and William as they figured out how to get things right. I was rooting for them, cheering for them, scolding them and just wanting them to Get It Right! I still need to sit with this for a while but I can honestly say this is a story that will linger with me for a long time to come. Wesleigh Siobhan was absolutely brilliant in her performance. This was my first Danielle Allen book, I'm sure it wont be my last, but honey I'm giving myself some time before I try another one. Bravo!