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Broken Compass
What if you were in love not just with one, not just with two, but with three hot guys?
And what if they wanted you back?
There are three of them. Three boys.
We’re friends. Neighbors. Our lives are linked through disaster, fear and pain.
I love them all. Not sure I can live without them. Can we just stay friends?
Can we ignore the desire flaring when we’re around each other?
Can I kiss one and not the other?
I can’t choose.
Don’t want to choose.
And I’m not sure they can, either.
This story will either end up in heartache, or as any story should: in a happy ending.
Love is not a road. It’s a country. A sprawling galaxy.
Love has no compass. No rules. No limits.
Love is a universe. Lose yourself in it.
*** This is a Reverse Harem romance - that is, one girl and three boys all ending up together happy after many adventures. It can be read as a complete standalone. Full novel length. ***
*This is the story of Sydney and her boys. You met Sydney in Bad Wolf - she is Gigi's best friend. *
And what if they wanted you back?
There are three of them. Three boys.
We’re friends. Neighbors. Our lives are linked through disaster, fear and pain.
I love them all. Not sure I can live without them. Can we just stay friends?
Can we ignore the desire flaring when we’re around each other?
Can I kiss one and not the other?
I can’t choose.
Don’t want to choose.
And I’m not sure they can, either.
This story will either end up in heartache, or as any story should: in a happy ending.
Love is not a road. It’s a country. A sprawling galaxy.
Love has no compass. No rules. No limits.
Love is a universe. Lose yourself in it.
*** This is a Reverse Harem romance - that is, one girl and three boys all ending up together happy after many adventures. It can be read as a complete standalone. Full novel length. ***
*This is the story of Sydney and her boys. You met Sydney in Bad Wolf - she is Gigi's best friend. *
Unknown Binding
First published June 14, 2018
1188 people are currently reading
1647 people want to read
About the author
Jo Raven
49 books2,783 followersBe the first to get your hands on Jo Raven’s new releases & offers, giveaways, previews, and more by signing up here ▶ http://bit.ly/1CTNTHM
Jo Raven is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, best known for her series Inked Brotherhood and Damage Control. She writes edgy, contemporary New Adult romance with sexy bad boys and strong-willed heroines. She writes about MME fighters and tattoo artists, dark pasts that bleed into the present, loyalty and raw emotion. Add to that breathtaking suspense, super-hot sex scenes and a happy ending, and you have a Jo Raven® story.
Meet Jo Raven online – on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJoRaven), chat with her on Twitter (@AuthorJoRaven) and join her readers group for sneak previews of her covers and stories (http://on.fb.me/1K2LvzO).
Jo Raven is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, best known for her series Inked Brotherhood and Damage Control. She writes edgy, contemporary New Adult romance with sexy bad boys and strong-willed heroines. She writes about MME fighters and tattoo artists, dark pasts that bleed into the present, loyalty and raw emotion. Add to that breathtaking suspense, super-hot sex scenes and a happy ending, and you have a Jo Raven® story.
Meet Jo Raven online – on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJoRaven), chat with her on Twitter (@AuthorJoRaven) and join her readers group for sneak previews of her covers and stories (http://on.fb.me/1K2LvzO).
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 278 reviews
June 22, 2018
3.5 For The Boys Stars
This is a hard one to review. I loved Jo's Candy Boys series, so when I saw this one I 1-clicked ASAP. Unfortunately this one had some issues for me. I liked the plot, the characters and the setting but this was a long book and the first 50% seemed to just drag on and on.....
I'm sure if it was shorter and the pace a little faster I would have enjoyed it more. Then there was the fact that Sydney the one female that West, Nate and Kash were meant to want so badly just seemed like a side character by the end.
So I know that sounds negative but there were things that I really liked in it as well. I liked the mystery surrounding all their pasts and the bond they formed because of how broken they were. I really liked the chemistry between the boys ;)
This is a hard one to review. I loved Jo's Candy Boys series, so when I saw this one I 1-clicked ASAP. Unfortunately this one had some issues for me. I liked the plot, the characters and the setting but this was a long book and the first 50% seemed to just drag on and on.....
I'm sure if it was shorter and the pace a little faster I would have enjoyed it more. Then there was the fact that Sydney the one female that West, Nate and Kash were meant to want so badly just seemed like a side character by the end.
So I know that sounds negative but there were things that I really liked in it as well. I liked the mystery surrounding all their pasts and the bond they formed because of how broken they were. I really liked the chemistry between the boys ;)
July 24, 2018
What the fuck did I just read?
Broken Compass is one book filled with about 3 books. Sounds confusing right? RIGHT! It was 2 books too long and completely frustrating to read. I couldn't connect with a single character if my life depended on it. Nope - I would rather talk to a rock on a deserted island for the rest of my life than connect with any character from this weird ass book.
Also, shout out to my twin for making me read this weird shit. No, I wont tag you in this review because I'm at work, ya know "working" and typing out this painful review instead.
In the beginning, this shit was weird and definitely gave off the vibe that this was going to be high school smut. Which would've grossed me the fuck out because that's baby smut. Then the books progressed by a couple of years and/or months.. and the shit was still weird. At one point, I questioned what this book was even about anymore. I also just kept wishing that the page I was on was the last one. I wouldn't have been mad one bit if the book ended in the middle of a chapter. Maybe that ending would've been impressive in my eyes - yet, the two epilogues (two too many if ya ask me) were subpar and did nothing for the book.
I don't even want to dive into the characters because I didn't connect with the twatwaffles and I have nothing good to say about them. Overall, I'm glad that this book is over. SO FREAKING GLAD. I need some adult smut in my life and characters that are god damn likable.
Broken Compass is one book filled with about 3 books. Sounds confusing right? RIGHT! It was 2 books too long and completely frustrating to read. I couldn't connect with a single character if my life depended on it. Nope - I would rather talk to a rock on a deserted island for the rest of my life than connect with any character from this weird ass book.
Also, shout out to my twin for making me read this weird shit. No, I wont tag you in this review because I'm at work, ya know "working" and typing out this painful review instead.
In the beginning, this shit was weird and definitely gave off the vibe that this was going to be high school smut. Which would've grossed me the fuck out because that's baby smut. Then the books progressed by a couple of years and/or months.. and the shit was still weird. At one point, I questioned what this book was even about anymore. I also just kept wishing that the page I was on was the last one. I wouldn't have been mad one bit if the book ended in the middle of a chapter. Maybe that ending would've been impressive in my eyes - yet, the two epilogues (two too many if ya ask me) were subpar and did nothing for the book.
I don't even want to dive into the characters because I didn't connect with the twatwaffles and I have nothing good to say about them. Overall, I'm glad that this book is over. SO FREAKING GLAD. I need some adult smut in my life and characters that are god damn likable.
June 24, 2018
5 Stars
This is honestly the best book I have read this year thus far! First, I will say I have been a die hard fan of Jo's from her first release and I look forward to every new book she writes. Second, I will say that I have never read an author that even comes close to totally annihilating my heart the way she does. The best part is she puts my broken pieces back together. Jo has never, ever disappointed me and I know she never will. Her writing talent is just absolutely amazing. Jo will cross boundaries; she is not afraid to torture her characters. I have never read characters like hers. If you are currently a fan of this author, than you know exactly what I'm trying to say. If you aren't, hold on for the literary ride of your life.
To all my friends...I would never steer you wrong. This book is amazing! This author is amazing!
While all Jo’s books are stand-alones, they all interconnect somehow. There is always a familiar name or place mentioned.
Broken Compass is a new adult reverse harem. And while there are plenty of well-written sexy moments, this book is about so much more. The epitome of unconditional love and support. The development of their unconventional relationship is not rushed. That said, the tension and chemistry between these amazing characters is present on every page.
This book is separated into a few parts starting when the characters are sixteen years old and follows their circumstances for a few years. There are occasional time jumps here and there but nothing that left me lost or changed the steady pace of the book. As there are four main characters, there are four plot lines. While they are all tied together for a more than well deserved happily ever after, each character has their own suffering as well as their suffering and concern for each other.
Sydney, Kash, Nate, and West.....
Sydney is the glue that holds this bunch together. She was so young but at the same time, an old soul. They were only sixteen but years of abuse left them seeming much older. I'm sorry I can't tell you more about what each character went through individually because I don't give spoilers. However, if you have questions, you can message me because I can tell you there are many triggers. This book has many tragic moments. I promise there is a happy ending, so keep that in mind as you read. Even if you wonder how there can be a happy ending, I promise you Jo Raven does not leave you hanging.
West, Nate, and Sydney live in the same apartment complex and are friends. Kash moves in and their dynamic starts to slowly change. From the first page, I couldn't get to the end of this book fast enough. With four main characters having their own issues you might worry about the author keeping your attention. Fear not! I couldn't put this book down once I started it.
While this is my absolute honest review, I can't claim it to be completely unbiased. Jo Raven is my favorite author and it is because her writing is absolutely amazing and every one of her books left me with the worst book hangovers ever.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review! :)
This is honestly the best book I have read this year thus far! First, I will say I have been a die hard fan of Jo's from her first release and I look forward to every new book she writes. Second, I will say that I have never read an author that even comes close to totally annihilating my heart the way she does. The best part is she puts my broken pieces back together. Jo has never, ever disappointed me and I know she never will. Her writing talent is just absolutely amazing. Jo will cross boundaries; she is not afraid to torture her characters. I have never read characters like hers. If you are currently a fan of this author, than you know exactly what I'm trying to say. If you aren't, hold on for the literary ride of your life.
To all my friends...I would never steer you wrong. This book is amazing! This author is amazing!
While all Jo’s books are stand-alones, they all interconnect somehow. There is always a familiar name or place mentioned.
Broken Compass is a new adult reverse harem. And while there are plenty of well-written sexy moments, this book is about so much more. The epitome of unconditional love and support. The development of their unconventional relationship is not rushed. That said, the tension and chemistry between these amazing characters is present on every page.
This book is separated into a few parts starting when the characters are sixteen years old and follows their circumstances for a few years. There are occasional time jumps here and there but nothing that left me lost or changed the steady pace of the book. As there are four main characters, there are four plot lines. While they are all tied together for a more than well deserved happily ever after, each character has their own suffering as well as their suffering and concern for each other.
Sydney, Kash, Nate, and West.....
Sydney is the glue that holds this bunch together. She was so young but at the same time, an old soul. They were only sixteen but years of abuse left them seeming much older. I'm sorry I can't tell you more about what each character went through individually because I don't give spoilers. However, if you have questions, you can message me because I can tell you there are many triggers. This book has many tragic moments. I promise there is a happy ending, so keep that in mind as you read. Even if you wonder how there can be a happy ending, I promise you Jo Raven does not leave you hanging.
West, Nate, and Sydney live in the same apartment complex and are friends. Kash moves in and their dynamic starts to slowly change. From the first page, I couldn't get to the end of this book fast enough. With four main characters having their own issues you might worry about the author keeping your attention. Fear not! I couldn't put this book down once I started it.
While this is my absolute honest review, I can't claim it to be completely unbiased. Jo Raven is my favorite author and it is because her writing is absolutely amazing and every one of her books left me with the worst book hangovers ever.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review! :)
June 8, 2018
I normally don't read reverse harem, because most stories are totally unbelievable instalove stories without any depth to the characters and their backstories. Naturally I was equally curious and wary about what Jo Raven could to with that topic. I really enjoyed her MFM books, so I gave this one a chance...
AND I DIDN'T REGRET IT!
The story was beautifully tortured. Greatly developed and overall perfect.
Every character had his/her own voice, I could easily differ between the POVs even without reading the chapter headers, because everyone sounded differently.
Some developments and twists I guessed, but some took me completely by surprise and kept me on the edge till the bitter end.
The queen of tortured boys outdid herself with this one and I shed more than one tear while reading with my heart breaking and splintering into small pieces whenever I discovered yet another ugly truth in the past of these guys and Sydney.
All in all I don't know how I could doubt this author since I liked each and every book she has ever written, and I totally recommend picking up this one, even though, reverse harem migth not be your preferred genre. This one is perfect.
AND I DIDN'T REGRET IT!
The story was beautifully tortured. Greatly developed and overall perfect.
Every character had his/her own voice, I could easily differ between the POVs even without reading the chapter headers, because everyone sounded differently.
Some developments and twists I guessed, but some took me completely by surprise and kept me on the edge till the bitter end.
The queen of tortured boys outdid herself with this one and I shed more than one tear while reading with my heart breaking and splintering into small pieces whenever I discovered yet another ugly truth in the past of these guys and Sydney.
All in all I don't know how I could doubt this author since I liked each and every book she has ever written, and I totally recommend picking up this one, even though, reverse harem migth not be your preferred genre. This one is perfect.
December 10, 2018
I enjoy a good MM book heck my preferred is MMF, but this was even better! I was even MORE MEN. :D -this is my happy face.
I enjoyed the new adult aspect of this book a lot more than I thought I would. I guess it was more late teens but it felt very new adult.
I did have issues with the beginning it dragggggggggggged on just a little too much. I would have liked a more get to the point.
The back and forth for me was just right but the mystery around each character I don’t know I thought was a little overdone, One or 2 ok but all 4 it was almost too much. How they all come to be one really was interesting and I enjoyed how this played out I think you will too.
I think I would have been shouting this book for all to hear if it didn’t take so long to get into.
Very much enjoyed all of the narrators they did a fantastic job with emotions and tones I couldn’t have had happier ears.
I enjoyed the new adult aspect of this book a lot more than I thought I would. I guess it was more late teens but it felt very new adult.
I did have issues with the beginning it dragggggggggggged on just a little too much. I would have liked a more get to the point.
The back and forth for me was just right but the mystery around each character I don’t know I thought was a little overdone, One or 2 ok but all 4 it was almost too much. How they all come to be one really was interesting and I enjoyed how this played out I think you will too.
I think I would have been shouting this book for all to hear if it didn’t take so long to get into.
Very much enjoyed all of the narrators they did a fantastic job with emotions and tones I couldn’t have had happier ears.
June 24, 2018
4.5 Stars!!
This was my first Jo Raven read.
What a surprise this story was. What an emotional journey that you simply don’t expect from a ménage story. It was really long but I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t stop reading, wanting to know what happens next.
There was so much pain, so much angst. So many secrets and lies. So much hope and strength, and at the core, family, in all its forms.
And finally, two wonderful epilogues to heal my wounded heart.
I absolutely loved this story.
Highly recommend.
*Please be aware of trigger warnings
This was my first Jo Raven read.
What a surprise this story was. What an emotional journey that you simply don’t expect from a ménage story. It was really long but I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t stop reading, wanting to know what happens next.
There was so much pain, so much angst. So many secrets and lies. So much hope and strength, and at the core, family, in all its forms.
And finally, two wonderful epilogues to heal my wounded heart.
I absolutely loved this story.
Highly recommend.
*Please be aware of trigger warnings
June 27, 2018
3 stars
This one was flipping long. The beginning kind of sucked me in. I was curious about everyone’s secrets but by the end I was over it. It dragged.
This one was flipping long. The beginning kind of sucked me in. I was curious about everyone’s secrets but by the end I was over it. It dragged.
June 30, 2018
This book was a lot to take in. So much stuff happened that you had to pay attention and keep going. I will say that I liked each character. They were all unique in their own way. Once you get to the end of the book you will see how perfect the title is for this story. Below I will talk about the characters and how I perceived them and their own personal story’s. It was 4 plots all weaves into one with suspense galore.
Sidney was so strong but having her boys with her made her that much stronger. Her issues were more emotional then physical, but at the same times that can be worse. I loved her quick wit and her ability to understand. Her past was wrapped with a nice bow. We get to see some type of closure when it comes to her mom and that helped.
West broke my heart the most. His issues and past were raw and sometimes hard to read. All his issues made him who he was, and his past..... it was very cut and dry. The author did an awesome job at wrapping up god story.
Kash to me was the heart of the group. He came in last but at the same time he was the one that helped them all come together. If it wasn’t for him this who knows what would have happened. I feel like his past, while we get all the answers that we need was too lightly explained. I needed more info, maybe flash backs..... just something more to really understand it all.
Oh Nate. I truly love who he is. He was broken but he was still an amazing guy. His past..... issues..... they were the hardest and I’m really sad that the author didn’t expand on that. Yes it would make for hard reading but while we can understand and have thoughts of what we are pretty sure happened.... it was never fully explained. We never really get closure. We never see what happens with his family. It was all just brushed under the rug. I hate that to be honest. They live in the same town and poof, everything is ok.... just no. I don’t want to do spoilers but if you read the story you will know what I mean.
Overall I did like the story. It’s 4 broken souls that come together when they need each other the most and I enjoyed the dynamic they had. Hot sex, great banter, Hard pasta to overcome.... it was just an overall good story. I’m giving it 3 stars because while I did enjoy it, I didn’t feel the closure that I needed to with 2 of the characters (explained above). I do plan to still read other books by this author because I really enjoy her story’s. 3 stars #2OCCJD
Sidney was so strong but having her boys with her made her that much stronger. Her issues were more emotional then physical, but at the same times that can be worse. I loved her quick wit and her ability to understand. Her past was wrapped with a nice bow. We get to see some type of closure when it comes to her mom and that helped.
West broke my heart the most. His issues and past were raw and sometimes hard to read. All his issues made him who he was, and his past..... it was very cut and dry. The author did an awesome job at wrapping up god story.
Kash to me was the heart of the group. He came in last but at the same time he was the one that helped them all come together. If it wasn’t for him this who knows what would have happened. I feel like his past, while we get all the answers that we need was too lightly explained. I needed more info, maybe flash backs..... just something more to really understand it all.
Oh Nate. I truly love who he is. He was broken but he was still an amazing guy. His past..... issues..... they were the hardest and I’m really sad that the author didn’t expand on that. Yes it would make for hard reading but while we can understand and have thoughts of what we are pretty sure happened.... it was never fully explained. We never really get closure. We never see what happens with his family. It was all just brushed under the rug. I hate that to be honest. They live in the same town and poof, everything is ok.... just no. I don’t want to do spoilers but if you read the story you will know what I mean.
Overall I did like the story. It’s 4 broken souls that come together when they need each other the most and I enjoyed the dynamic they had. Hot sex, great banter, Hard pasta to overcome.... it was just an overall good story. I’m giving it 3 stars because while I did enjoy it, I didn’t feel the closure that I needed to with 2 of the characters (explained above). I do plan to still read other books by this author because I really enjoy her story’s. 3 stars #2OCCJD
June 9, 2018
Broken Compass by Jo Raven is a full length, standalone, romance novel. The story deals with sensitive subjects - consider you warned.
Sydney is young woman, neglected by her mother and she longs for human warmth. Her best friends are Nate, West and Kash. The three young men have their own demons and rough pasts. The four friends have baggage, keep secrets, carry pain and have cracks. Some have a certain darkness inside
Slowly they develop feelings for each other - they go from affection and friendship to love. They´re a family and have a home in each other.
Broken Compass is a heart wrenching story. The characters carry such a burden and a lot of pain -and I could feel every one of their emotions in the words. I was gutted by this story. I read the book a few days ago, but can´t get it out of my head. Yes, there are scorching hot scenes and yes, it´s a reverse harem story - but this book is so much more. It was a hell of a ride - nothing like expected and everything I could have asked for at the same time.
I highly - highly recommend Broken Compass and wish I could give more than 5 stars.
Sydney is young woman, neglected by her mother and she longs for human warmth. Her best friends are Nate, West and Kash. The three young men have their own demons and rough pasts. The four friends have baggage, keep secrets, carry pain and have cracks. Some have a certain darkness inside
Slowly they develop feelings for each other - they go from affection and friendship to love. They´re a family and have a home in each other.
Broken Compass is a heart wrenching story. The characters carry such a burden and a lot of pain -and I could feel every one of their emotions in the words. I was gutted by this story. I read the book a few days ago, but can´t get it out of my head. Yes, there are scorching hot scenes and yes, it´s a reverse harem story - but this book is so much more. It was a hell of a ride - nothing like expected and everything I could have asked for at the same time.
I highly - highly recommend Broken Compass and wish I could give more than 5 stars.
June 12, 2018
This isn't your average reverse harem story
Broken Compass has depth. Each character has their own demons and their own coping mechanisms to get them through each day. Life isn't just handed to these four people on a silver platter.
Nate, Kash, West, and Syd find strength within each other when they are all at their lowest.
It was an honor to receive this Early copy of Broken Compass. As every Jo Raven book I've read before this one, BC is more than just steam between the sheets. Its tragic and real.
Cover Rating: 4.5 Stars
Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
Broken Compass has depth. Each character has their own demons and their own coping mechanisms to get them through each day. Life isn't just handed to these four people on a silver platter.
Nate, Kash, West, and Syd find strength within each other when they are all at their lowest.
It was an honor to receive this Early copy of Broken Compass. As every Jo Raven book I've read before this one, BC is more than just steam between the sheets. Its tragic and real.
Cover Rating: 4.5 Stars
Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
June 19, 2018
I haven't read too many reverse harem romances (they seem to be the en vogue sub genre at the moment), so this was a fun read for me. This has a character connection to Bad Wolf, which I did not read. You can definitely read this as a stand alone, though I do plan to go back and read it for some additional character background down the road. We also get a cameo from a character in Candy Boys and that made me very happy!
Sydney has a bit of a problem. Her life is linked to three men. They are friends and neighbors. They have shared pain, fear and she loves them all. They love her too. How does one choose between three people who all set your heart on fire in unique ways you can't imagine losing? It seems impossible to choose and she isn't sure she wants to. Where can they go from here?
So when you think reverse harem, you probably figure heavy on the sex and low on the character development and emotion. That is not at all the case here. All four characters have clear and distinct voices and the men are the tortured kind Jo Raven does so well. This book surpassed all of my expectations and I definitely recommend it. Even if you think reverse harem books are not your type of books, I think this one will sneak in and surprise you!
Sydney has a bit of a problem. Her life is linked to three men. They are friends and neighbors. They have shared pain, fear and she loves them all. They love her too. How does one choose between three people who all set your heart on fire in unique ways you can't imagine losing? It seems impossible to choose and she isn't sure she wants to. Where can they go from here?
So when you think reverse harem, you probably figure heavy on the sex and low on the character development and emotion. That is not at all the case here. All four characters have clear and distinct voices and the men are the tortured kind Jo Raven does so well. This book surpassed all of my expectations and I definitely recommend it. Even if you think reverse harem books are not your type of books, I think this one will sneak in and surprise you!
August 6, 2018
2.0 “This book was insufferable!” stars
Seriously, this is how I felt after finishing this book!
I felt like freaking Rocky Balboa running up those steps, jumping for joy and thrusting my fists in the air in a victory celebration for FINALLY finishing this awful book or should I say books!
I hadn't read this type of story and since it was a recommended read or promo at the end of “The End Zone”, a novella by L.J. Shen (who is a Queen), I figured, ehhh, why not give this a shot? And tbh, I was curious to see how the premise of one girl falling in love with three guys would work itself out.
Well, curiosity definitely killed this cat!!!
Really, I'm not naïve to think that this would be a true romance but although I will give the author Jo Raven a small prop at her attempt to not make this story, “Broken Compass” into just a smut fest I would've rather have HAD a full on smut fest instead of having to put up with over 450 pages of the same repetitive crap in every darn chapter!
I mean, does this author not have an editor or friends to tell her WTH are you writing?!!!
If I were Jo Raven I would fire my editor and disown these so-called friends for letting me publish this sort of rubbish!
If you enjoyed this book well good for you. For me, this was 5 excruciating days of nothing but pain!
I personally hated that I've lost five days reading this! And I kept cursing myself for that one rule I have of not DNF-ing a book! Trust me, I almost came close to breaking that sacred rule! This book nearly drove me to that! I wanted to stab myself in the eyes several times with a pair of knitting needles and I don't even knit!
This book had the potential of some real emotional, pull at-your-heart strings drama had the author known HOW to do so!
How can you expect a couple to have any foundation to a relationship if there is no communication let alone four individuals?
The first 20 chapters are literally the characters seeing a problem, broaching the subject, being told everything is fine, mind your business, I don't want to talk about it, clamming up, walking out, not speaking to each other… WTH?! I kid you not! This was like being stuck in replay FOREVER!
By the time I was beaten to a pulp by these one dimensional, cookie-cutter characters telling each other the same thing over and over and freaking over, I was questioning my own sanity!
The characters were ALL THE SAME VERSION but with different issues!
Book II wasn't any better! Same old stuff happening. I felt like I was stuck in the freaking Twilight Zone!
The development was so choppy and flat that I found I had zero connection to any of these characters. They were all so frustrating and irritating I just wanted this book to end!!!
There were so many issues with the plots, the timelines that made no realistic sense and the love connection between these characters that I seriously just wished to be put down! Not the book, ME!
I wanted to buy into this story but couldn't! It just couldn't compute!
I think the author had a good idea but the execution was so bad that the intent of the story was never, ever truly tangible.
The only reasons why I didn't give this 1 star is that the sexy scenes were pretty decent, sometimes hot and for the character of Kash being the only one the author gave me something to hold on to. The entries from Kash's journal were the only true depth of insight we were given into any of these characters. Had Raven taken time to give us something more like that throughout the book I believe the finished product would've been something she could've hung her hat on.
I HATE to give this kind of review. If you know me, you know I highly respect authors and the hard work they put into their stories. But, I think that is a two-way street and if you're asking for my money, I deserve much better than this!
CANNOT RECOMMEND WITH A GOOD CONSCIENCE! BUT..., if you insist on reading, don't say you weren't WARNED!
Seriously, this is how I felt after finishing this book!
I felt like freaking Rocky Balboa running up those steps, jumping for joy and thrusting my fists in the air in a victory celebration for FINALLY finishing this awful book or should I say books!
I hadn't read this type of story and since it was a recommended read or promo at the end of “The End Zone”, a novella by L.J. Shen (who is a Queen), I figured, ehhh, why not give this a shot? And tbh, I was curious to see how the premise of one girl falling in love with three guys would work itself out.
Well, curiosity definitely killed this cat!!!
Really, I'm not naïve to think that this would be a true romance but although I will give the author Jo Raven a small prop at her attempt to not make this story, “Broken Compass” into just a smut fest I would've rather have HAD a full on smut fest instead of having to put up with over 450 pages of the same repetitive crap in every darn chapter!
I mean, does this author not have an editor or friends to tell her WTH are you writing?!!!
If I were Jo Raven I would fire my editor and disown these so-called friends for letting me publish this sort of rubbish!
If you enjoyed this book well good for you. For me, this was 5 excruciating days of nothing but pain!
I personally hated that I've lost five days reading this! And I kept cursing myself for that one rule I have of not DNF-ing a book! Trust me, I almost came close to breaking that sacred rule! This book nearly drove me to that! I wanted to stab myself in the eyes several times with a pair of knitting needles and I don't even knit!
This book had the potential of some real emotional, pull at-your-heart strings drama had the author known HOW to do so!
How can you expect a couple to have any foundation to a relationship if there is no communication let alone four individuals?
The first 20 chapters are literally the characters seeing a problem, broaching the subject, being told everything is fine, mind your business, I don't want to talk about it, clamming up, walking out, not speaking to each other… WTH?! I kid you not! This was like being stuck in replay FOREVER!
By the time I was beaten to a pulp by these one dimensional, cookie-cutter characters telling each other the same thing over and over and freaking over, I was questioning my own sanity!
The characters were ALL THE SAME VERSION but with different issues!
Book II wasn't any better! Same old stuff happening. I felt like I was stuck in the freaking Twilight Zone!
The development was so choppy and flat that I found I had zero connection to any of these characters. They were all so frustrating and irritating I just wanted this book to end!!!
There were so many issues with the plots, the timelines that made no realistic sense and the love connection between these characters that I seriously just wished to be put down! Not the book, ME!
I wanted to buy into this story but couldn't! It just couldn't compute!
I think the author had a good idea but the execution was so bad that the intent of the story was never, ever truly tangible.
The only reasons why I didn't give this 1 star is that the sexy scenes were pretty decent, sometimes hot and for the character of Kash being the only one the author gave me something to hold on to. The entries from Kash's journal were the only true depth of insight we were given into any of these characters. Had Raven taken time to give us something more like that throughout the book I believe the finished product would've been something she could've hung her hat on.
I HATE to give this kind of review. If you know me, you know I highly respect authors and the hard work they put into their stories. But, I think that is a two-way street and if you're asking for my money, I deserve much better than this!
CANNOT RECOMMEND WITH A GOOD CONSCIENCE! BUT..., if you insist on reading, don't say you weren't WARNED!
June 17, 2018
Broken Compass by Jo Raven is a reverse harem read. Its beautifully written with such emotion and there is a slow burn on the romance between the main characters---Nate, West, Kash and Sydney. Their chemistry pops on the pages along with a really good plot. This book is separated into a several parts starting when the characters are sixteen years old and follows their circumstances for a few years. There are occasional time jumps but not too many. Also, since there are 4 main characters, there are 4 main plot lines that end up coming together and end up together in the end. Each character has pain, angst, suffering and the characters feel for one other. Sydney is the glue that holds this bunch together. She was so young but at the same time, a soul that was born old. All the main characters were characters that had been abused which left them coming across as seeming older. There will possibly be trigger moments so just known the main characters suffered terrible abuse. There are moments of tragedies and as I have said at times the book fast forwards in time. West, Nate, and Sydney live in the same apartment complex and are friends. Kash moves in and their dynamic starts to change and it isn’t noticeable at first because it happens slowly. Because of what the boys went thru, it seems they might be broken beyond repair but Syd is the glue, the fix. She is what pulls them all together and is what heals what is broken. But things aren’t the same without her there. I don’t want to give too much away. This is a story that will break your heart, will rip you to shreds and piece you back together in the best way possible. I really enjoyed every moment of this read. I also loved the appearance of Zane and how this book has a tie in with the Candy Boys. This is one book you do not want to miss.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
February 13, 2021
I've had a couple of days to try and process this book now, but I'm still not sure what words to use to review it. I kind of feel like any words I use won't do it justice, but I'll try.
RH seem to be all the thing at the moment, lots of my favourite authors are doing it, so when I found out that Jo Raven was, I wasn't surprised, but I can honestly say that this is the best so far! There are many reasons for this, mostly just because of the author she is, no one tortures damaged boys quite like she does, no one writes these amazing strong heroines that hold these boys together like she does, no one does the steamy scenes quite the same, and no one rips me to shreds before putting me back together in exactly the way she does.
These boys are damaged, almost beyond repair you would have thought, but it took a girl like Sydney to pull them together. I love that each individual relationship in this book strengthens each character, I love that they all need each other, I love that it's Syd that draws them together, but the relationship is not the same without all of them.
I think the thing I like the best about this is that there's MM in here as well and I think that what makes this RH so unique. It's not just the boys relationships with the girl that keep them all together, but the fact that they each have a deep and special bond with all the other individuals in the relationship.
I think you can tell I'm a huge Jo Raven fan, but I never thought she'd top Candy Boys (who get a mention in here). Well, I'm here to tell you, this is way way better and that's saying something!
Read it, you won't regret it!
RH seem to be all the thing at the moment, lots of my favourite authors are doing it, so when I found out that Jo Raven was, I wasn't surprised, but I can honestly say that this is the best so far! There are many reasons for this, mostly just because of the author she is, no one tortures damaged boys quite like she does, no one writes these amazing strong heroines that hold these boys together like she does, no one does the steamy scenes quite the same, and no one rips me to shreds before putting me back together in exactly the way she does.
These boys are damaged, almost beyond repair you would have thought, but it took a girl like Sydney to pull them together. I love that each individual relationship in this book strengthens each character, I love that they all need each other, I love that it's Syd that draws them together, but the relationship is not the same without all of them.
I think the thing I like the best about this is that there's MM in here as well and I think that what makes this RH so unique. It's not just the boys relationships with the girl that keep them all together, but the fact that they each have a deep and special bond with all the other individuals in the relationship.
I think you can tell I'm a huge Jo Raven fan, but I never thought she'd top Candy Boys (who get a mention in here). Well, I'm here to tell you, this is way way better and that's saying something!
Read it, you won't regret it!
March 23, 2019
Wow plan for a book hangover like none other with this one! Ms Raven has really outdone herself. This story feels like her earlier books and took me back emotionally to some of my all time favorite reading. She most certainly upped her game in the angsty, damaged boys department.
Oh Nate, West, and Kash bring it. Love, love, love these boys. Yes technically this book has all the elements of a reverse harem but it definitely felt like SO much more. It has a slow build to some of the sexiest scenes I have ever read (fanning myself).
What really impressed though was this was not about titillation. It wasn’t about breaking society norms or defining your sexual identity but making your own family and loving who you love. In the darker moments you get teased with details, more and more being revealed as you go on the journey of its telling. Ugh I had several heart palpitating moments with this read (eek).
Abuse and mental health issues are a huge part of this storyline. Plan to feel heartbroken quite often but it’s necessary to understand these awesome characters and the choices they are making.
Sydney is our amazing heroine that even when struggling with her own sad story, shows such dedication to her boys. This book left me reeling with emotions and haunted long after turning the last page. If you are looking for a different kind of love story, then check this one out. Happy Reading!
Oh Nate, West, and Kash bring it. Love, love, love these boys. Yes technically this book has all the elements of a reverse harem but it definitely felt like SO much more. It has a slow build to some of the sexiest scenes I have ever read (fanning myself).
What really impressed though was this was not about titillation. It wasn’t about breaking society norms or defining your sexual identity but making your own family and loving who you love. In the darker moments you get teased with details, more and more being revealed as you go on the journey of its telling. Ugh I had several heart palpitating moments with this read (eek).
Abuse and mental health issues are a huge part of this storyline. Plan to feel heartbroken quite often but it’s necessary to understand these awesome characters and the choices they are making.
Sydney is our amazing heroine that even when struggling with her own sad story, shows such dedication to her boys. This book left me reeling with emotions and haunted long after turning the last page. If you are looking for a different kind of love story, then check this one out. Happy Reading!
June 11, 2018
This book was just amazing!! For the most part I feel I am over the whole reverse harem plotline. It is over used and often just an excuse to have a book that is all about heat, steam and intimate scenes. Usually done with no real connection between any of the characters and no emotional depth at all. This was so not the case with this book. Sydney, Nate, West and Kash are fully developed characters. They have fears, baggage and painful histories and complicated families. The connection that grows between these characters is deep and refreshingly realistic. Each character gets their own POV which leads to a better understanding of them and fully invests you into them and the storyline. The story is filled with emotions that are so moving and complex. There are no easy answers for this group as the characters struggle with their desires, needs and fears. Of course there is plenty of heat and steam but it is built on a rock solid base of genuine affection and powerful emotions. I loved this beautiful romance. It shines a light on the fact that love doesn't always follow the common ideal. I feel that it will touch your heart. It did mine. This is a book I will remember for a long, long time. I am posting a voluntary, honest review.
June 17, 2018
Just wow!!!
I have the biggest book hangover ever after reading Broken Compass.
I am in awe of Jo Ravens skill in writing perfection in her broken boys.
Be prepared to be blown away!!!
I loved the fact the four main characters All had their own story, they were all broken but together became whole.
The boys all broke my heart in different ways and I found myself wanting them to share with each other, but that’s not Jo’s style lol that would be too easy.
The characters all played out their roles bit by bit all sharing bit by bit, trusting in their feelings slowly.
Tbh I’d be disappointed any other way, the anticipation kills you and keeps you enthralled.
I loved the fact Zane Madden had a cameo ( that made me smile)
The title was perfect for this story, the more I read the more I thought it fit beautifully.
I loved the vulnerability the characters all showed, they all played equal parts throughout making them all my favourites
I highly recommend this book 📖
I have the biggest book hangover ever after reading Broken Compass.
I am in awe of Jo Ravens skill in writing perfection in her broken boys.
Be prepared to be blown away!!!
I loved the fact the four main characters All had their own story, they were all broken but together became whole.
The boys all broke my heart in different ways and I found myself wanting them to share with each other, but that’s not Jo’s style lol that would be too easy.
The characters all played out their roles bit by bit all sharing bit by bit, trusting in their feelings slowly.
Tbh I’d be disappointed any other way, the anticipation kills you and keeps you enthralled.
I loved the fact Zane Madden had a cameo ( that made me smile)
The title was perfect for this story, the more I read the more I thought it fit beautifully.
I loved the vulnerability the characters all showed, they all played equal parts throughout making them all my favourites
I highly recommend this book 📖
June 28, 2019
Sydney, Kash, Nate and West.. typo? No! One girl and her three broken boys, Hell Yes! This reverse harem romance is about so much more that loving more than one person at a time. There were four separate lives all unfolding together and the strongest bonds of friendship and love being formed amongst a backdrop of pain and chaos.
No one writes pain and torture of the human soul and spirit like Jo. She tears her characters down to the bone before finding ways to mend their hearts and spirits through the bonds that keep us all human...love and affection. This was an amazing, emotional rollercoaster. My heart broke for each of them and was slowly glued back together as they found their happy place together. Buckle up and prepare yourself emotionally for one hell of a ride. Syd and her boys will definitely rock your socks! I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reader copy and this is my honest review.
No one writes pain and torture of the human soul and spirit like Jo. She tears her characters down to the bone before finding ways to mend their hearts and spirits through the bonds that keep us all human...love and affection. This was an amazing, emotional rollercoaster. My heart broke for each of them and was slowly glued back together as they found their happy place together. Buckle up and prepare yourself emotionally for one hell of a ride. Syd and her boys will definitely rock your socks! I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reader copy and this is my honest review.
March 22, 2020
Ok so this one is a little different. First off, the characters are young (like high school young) when it starts off. It’s established that they are firmly past the age of consent before any erotic hijinks, but it made me a bit uncomfortable (YMMV especially if you are a whippersnapper yourself). Not to worry though because the story drags in the middle to the point where you feel as though you’ve aged yourself so there’s that.
There are also some pretty dark themes - everyone is broken in some way and these kids have some real past trauma and baggage (stuff that could trigger some readers).
Once you are sufficiently bummed out for the kids, there is some international intrigue and Kung fu action that is fairly ridiculous to keep you semi interested.
I will say that the hot scenes are pretty damn hot while still being kind of sweet/endearing. The end of this book is really hot so you’ll have that to look forward to.
There are also some pretty dark themes - everyone is broken in some way and these kids have some real past trauma and baggage (stuff that could trigger some readers).
Once you are sufficiently bummed out for the kids, there is some international intrigue and Kung fu action that is fairly ridiculous to keep you semi interested.
I will say that the hot scenes are pretty damn hot while still being kind of sweet/endearing. The end of this book is really hot so you’ll have that to look forward to.
June 20, 2018
So many emotions...
This RH takes you an such an emotional rollercoaster, your feelings are a jumbled mess for days! No one out there does broken, deep and "damaged" characters like Jo does. She knows how to pull your heartstrings an make you fall in love with every beautifully flawed piece of the characters she writes. This is my first RH book. It's not usually "my thing", but I knew that I could pass up a Jo Raven book. This is definitely one of my top reads of the year. All 5 of these characters are in my heart and will stay there forever. A must read, for sure. I can promise you won't be dissatisfied or disappointed.
This RH takes you an such an emotional rollercoaster, your feelings are a jumbled mess for days! No one out there does broken, deep and "damaged" characters like Jo does. She knows how to pull your heartstrings an make you fall in love with every beautifully flawed piece of the characters she writes. This is my first RH book. It's not usually "my thing", but I knew that I could pass up a Jo Raven book. This is definitely one of my top reads of the year. All 5 of these characters are in my heart and will stay there forever. A must read, for sure. I can promise you won't be dissatisfied or disappointed.
June 16, 2018
Another amazing book. Jo Raven writing just blows my mind. The way she has written about each character with so much depth and keep s you guessing what has happened to them. This story kept me gripped from the start and was so riveting. The characters in this reverse harem need each other without realising it at the beginning but they then become a support system for each other. This story is so good you need to read. I reviewed an advanced arc copy.
June 20, 2018
Amazing book, no I'm serious it was absolutely amazing!! I'm loving these reverse harem stories more and more with each new one that I read. And this is my favorite thus far!! It is a very well written beautiful story full of emotions plus so much more. And it had just enough mystery and drama to really keep me hooked all the way to the end.
This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily
This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily
June 10, 2018
4*
Nate & West are best friends & meet Sydney when she moves into the apartment block. Each friend has secrets there reluctant to share.
Kash meets the group when he lodges at Nate’s.
The story gives you secrets, drama & plays with your emotions.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Broken with secrets.
Nate & West are best friends & meet Sydney when she moves into the apartment block. Each friend has secrets there reluctant to share.
Kash meets the group when he lodges at Nate’s.
The story gives you secrets, drama & plays with your emotions.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Broken with secrets.
July 23, 2018
The only reason this book got three stars is because the second half of the book with the amount of smut that was in it. Made up for the fact that the first half was so damn repetitive. It was literally the same shit happening over and over again. Sydney would want West to talk to her about what was eating at him, and would get mad when he refused. But then when say Nate wanted her to talk to him about her shit she'd refuse. WHAT!
Just, I couldn't. I probably skimmed a good 40% of this book and I'm not even ashamed. I seriously give zero fucks. That's all. :D
Just, I couldn't. I probably skimmed a good 40% of this book and I'm not even ashamed. I seriously give zero fucks. That's all. :D
June 16, 2018
ARC REVIEWER
WARNING... Prepare yourself for one emotional ride with triggers and a hangover when the book is finished.
Consider yourself warned 😉
Normally I don't read reverse harem books as I am not a fan of multiple love interests. But I have to be honesty here and say I was completely taken with this book. Jo Raven is one hell of an author that likes to take her readers on a journey and she most definitely didn’t disappoint with ‘Broken Compass’. If you are a regular reader or just new to Jo Raven you would know that all her books are standalone’s but do also interlock with each other.
The chemistry between these amazing characters is present on every single page, from beginning to end.
This book is broken into several parts, starting when the characters are 16 years old where we follow theirs lives for a few years, to the present. There are four main characters, each character have their own demons and pasts.
Sydney, Kash, Nate, and West have many issues between them that you may get worried that either one how is this book going to keep me guessing, two how will they get through it and three how are they expected to get their HEA. Fear not I wasn’t able to put this book down once I started it, and loved every single word.
Once again a big congratulations to Jo on another great book and look forward to the next thing from you xx
WARNING... Prepare yourself for one emotional ride with triggers and a hangover when the book is finished.
Consider yourself warned 😉
Normally I don't read reverse harem books as I am not a fan of multiple love interests. But I have to be honesty here and say I was completely taken with this book. Jo Raven is one hell of an author that likes to take her readers on a journey and she most definitely didn’t disappoint with ‘Broken Compass’. If you are a regular reader or just new to Jo Raven you would know that all her books are standalone’s but do also interlock with each other.
The chemistry between these amazing characters is present on every single page, from beginning to end.
This book is broken into several parts, starting when the characters are 16 years old where we follow theirs lives for a few years, to the present. There are four main characters, each character have their own demons and pasts.
Sydney, Kash, Nate, and West have many issues between them that you may get worried that either one how is this book going to keep me guessing, two how will they get through it and three how are they expected to get their HEA. Fear not I wasn’t able to put this book down once I started it, and loved every single word.
Once again a big congratulations to Jo on another great book and look forward to the next thing from you xx
July 23, 2018
Broken Compass is a beautiful book. It has every emotion you can possibly feel built into it. I had to walk away a couple times and let myself relax and take a breath so that I could go back and start it again. This is the kind of book that will drag you in from the very first word and not let you go until the end. And even then you will have a book hangover. So go into this book with that knowledge.
Such a great story. Everyone should read it!
June 21, 2018
I went into this blind. Wow this book where do I begin. So much hurt and love my heart hurt for these characters. Just when I thought I knew what was coming it changed up again. A lot I didn’t see coming. But again this is my first reverse harem book. I struggled at first felt like there was so much going on. But then it got intense. You feel their pain and you want to comfort them. Please be warned there could be lots of tiggers with abuse and abandonment. These characters they fight for what they want.
November 9, 2018
Broken Compass is a heart wrenching story. Sydney,Kash,Nate and West all have their own secrets to keep. As the story unfolds you will be taken on an incredibly emotional roller coaster. The story is long and complicated but oh so worth it. I cried some sad and happy tears while reading this book. Don’t let anything scare you away from reading this book.... it really is a love story underneath it all. You will not be disappointed with this one!
June 11, 2018
Amazing yet again. This is a long book which I absolutely loved. I really enjoyed how we got everyone back stories about there lives and how they came to be where they were.
HOT!!!!did I mention hot. Wow what a lucky girl Syd is to have West, Nate and Kash.
HOT!!!!did I mention hot. Wow what a lucky girl Syd is to have West, Nate and Kash.
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