Broken Love

by Michele Zurlo, Nicoline Tiernan (Editor)

“I’d wanted the fairy tale, and somewhere along the line I’d forgotten that everyone in a fairy tale paid a price.” Four months after Jessica walked away from me, I returned to find that she’d removed herself from my life as much as possible—even from her art studio and storefront on the first floor of the SAFE Security building. She couldn’t run far since she was carrying my child, and one night of playing nice landed me in her bed. While it didn’t repair the broken love between us, it renewed my determination to win her Ending up in the back of Jesse’s truck while he was on vacation wasn’t what I’d intended, but it gave us time to talk in a way we hadn’t before. Now that he understood I wasn’t a submissive, maybe we had a chance to be friends and co-parents? I just wish I could stop yearning for his touch.

Genres: Romance

191 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 19, 2018

About the author

Michele Zurlo is the author of the Awakenings, Doms of the FBI, and the SAFE Security series and many other stories. She writes contemporary and paranormal, BDSM and mainstream—whatever it takes to give her characters the happy endings they deserve. Her childhood dream was to be a librarian so she could read all day. Some words of wisdom from an inspiring lady had her tapping out stories on her first laptop, and writing blossomed from a hobby to a career.

She also writes MM romance under the name A.J. Stone. Find out more at www.michelezurloauthor.com

Reviews

[Greyling54 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is very difficult to write without spoilers. I do have to assume you have read "Forging Love" and "Drawing on Love," though, because you have to start at the beginning. These books are not freestanding. "Drawing on Love" is told from Jessica's POV. Broken Love is mixed, but at least 2/3 of it is Jesse's POV. When we last saw Jesse and Jessica, she was pregnant, he was thrilled, and then she ended the relationship. In "Broken Love," despite Jesse's heartache (and Jessica's, too, although she doesn't really want to admit to that), both of them decide they should try to be friends so that they can be good parents to the baby. That's about as much as can be said about the plot without spoilers.

Jesse's perspective provides us with a different take on the relationship, and a very welcome view of how a man, or at least this man, copes with the trauma of his broken heart and his joy at becoming a father. He still believes and hopes that he and Jessica can get back together, especially as he realizes he really hadn't been listening when Jessica said she wasn't submissive, even as she liked many of the things they had done together, especially shibari.

I also like that in the SAFE Security series, her BDSM relationships (not just Jesse and Jessica's) are not typical D/s. She shows that there are more options available and more ways to have kink in your life.

As always, Michele Zurlo gives us an in-depth look at the characters and weaves a story that is compelling and page-turning. I can't wait for the final installment, due out July 29th. This was so good I read it in one day.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Mary Lou Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

BROKEN LOVE is the second book in the Mercenary Hearts series. This series needs to be read in the order of release. This is a mini-series within the Safe Security series.

Jesse and Jessica are taking the steps backwards to move forwards. Agreeing to be friends so that they can co-parent and truly listening to one another could possibly be the steps needed to build the relationship they both ultimately want.

This “episode” had more of the warm fuzzies. That’s not to say that there wasn’t plenty of trauma and drama – there was! – but Jessie and Jessica are working their “us” relationship and that’s what I am rooting for.

I’m looking forward to where their love will take them – and us – that cliffhanger was a doozy! I know that as soon as the next book is available, I’ll be jumping it to the top of my read pile.

My final thought: I love that Michele Zurlo takes the time explain that every BDSM relationship is between two individuals. Each one is unique and there is no right way or wrong way to have that relationship. Each one is a sundae of your choosing…. some want to start with vanilla ice cream and just a few sprinkles or nuts, while others go for everything on the smorgasbord! Each couple chooses what goes on their sundae. The goals are always love, communication, and devotion. Isn’t that what every couple wants (with or without the BDSM)?

Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.


Title: BROKEN LOVE
Series: Mercenary Hearts #2
Category /Genre: Romantic Suspense, Erotic
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC copy / errors excused
Received from: Michele Zurlo

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title here says it all, this love was broken. This is book two in the trilogy that is Jesse and Jessica's love story. They ended the previous story at odds, not connected with each other, and did what was best for them. This story is about paying attention, looking at things, and yourself, objectively, and connecting your feelings and your reality. The cover of the book shows that as well, whereas the previous cover was half-drawing, projecting what you see, this is the picture, seeing what is really there

Jesse finally sees what Jessica was trying to tell him all along, if not with words, then with actions. Jessica realizes that she is giving into knee-jerk reactions, rather than assessing and reacting for what thing really are. Both Jesse and Jessica are still acting on their feelings, but this time, they are truly considering the others perspective as well. It makes their connection all the better, and their love all the stronger, for it

There were some twists here I didn't expect, and I was wholly on board with Jesse's reaction. There were some circumstances that made me hurt for Jessica, but she showed her strength and pulled through. And there was such joy and happiness in places, my smile was wide. Then, this story ended, and my tears freely flowed, as they are now as I write this.

As I wait for the third story, I can't help but wonder at how this will all come together, but know, I will be there to see how it does

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I thought it was safe to continue Jesse and Jessica’s story. OMG, Ms. Zurlo has written a fabulous part two to their story and it’s told through Jesse’s eyes. The story is very well written and will having you cheering for this couple and leave you gasping for air as well.

Jesse, who loves Jessica more than life, is living his life on the edge since she walked out of his life. When his friends finally make him slow down is when he starts to realize he can’t go on living life as he was, if for no other reason than he has a baby on the way. But when life throws him an unexpected twist, he becomes hopeful and grasps it with both hands and works on get Jessica back in his life where she belongs. But will Jessica take the chance again? Can she ever be enough for Jesse?

This is an amazing storyline with lots of fun, tears and suspense. I am not sure I liked the ending but loving Ms. Zurlo’s writing style and trusting her judgment, I am anxiously awaiting book 3 - the final chapter in Jessica and Jessa’s story to see how things turn out. 2 Thumbs Up for a job well done and this reader Highly Recommends this trio and it’s prequel which are a part of the phenomenal SAFE Security series.

[Johanna Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is part two in the mercenary hearts series ... man I love Jesse. So many new twists in part two that it’s just delicious. So in book one Jesse and Jessica call it quits because Jessica is NOT a submissive. These two people are magnetic though so staying apart is not an option. I really need part three because .... that cliffhanger.

What did I like? The story was well formed in part one but part two shows you how love can change you. I think Jesse learned a lot about himself being apart from Jessica. This book holds true that love can make you want to be a better person and I think they both learned some valuable things.

Would I buy or recommend? Yes. This is a wonderful series, and it’s really grown on me. I’m devouring more books by this author than any other so far this year. Exceptional writing and just amazing characters.

Thoughts for the author? Please let book three be the next read. I really hate cliffhangers and I’m addicted. I would love the book of her sister Brea or how they all met. Thanks to Booksprout for a copy to read and give my honest opinion.

[Diane G · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK, Broken Love is book 2 in the “A SAFE Security Trilogy: Jesse and Jessica’s Book”. In my review of Book 1, I said it was Breathtaking, well Book 2 takes my breathe away and I don’t know if, I am breathing yet! LOL Michelle Zurlo has written another suspenseful, keep us guessing book, exploring the options of a BDSM relationship, lots of love and steamy HOT sexy scenes ! The characters are described in depth and the storyline is filled with insights into relationships, self-understanding and learning that one can grow and obtain a better relationship then ever imagined. Now, if Jesse and Jessica can accept these revelations, one needs to read this book and find out! The story is compelling and a page turner. It is not a stand alone and I would recommend reading “Forging Love” - (a prequel) and Book 1 - Drawing on Love to have an amazing reading experience. The story ends in a cliff hanger and I am anxiously awaiting Book 3 - Shards of Love. How will this love story end? I have no idea but I know Michelle Zurlo will steer us to a safe harbor.

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning who you are and what you want is never easy. They want each other, but can they find a way to make that happen?

This is book two of the series. I have not read book one and did fine, as I was able to pick up all the essentials fairly quickly. That being said, it might have been easier to catch up if I read them in order.

This is an intense romance story with strong elements of BDSM. The story is very well written, but I am not going to call it easy to read. The story can be rather emotional at times which might encourage you to put it down for a spell, but the characters are such that you will come back and carry on. I did really like their efforts to communicate and find a common ground that they can work from. They still have some work to do, but that is what book three is for. Looking forward to it.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes

[SiKReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The three Mercenary Hearts Books center around Jessica and Jesse's love story. The three books take you on a journey throughout there relationship. Jessica had a really hard life that got worse. After waking for a coma, the life she thought she had was false. The man who was there protecting her fell in love with her when she was still rehabing. One glorious night bonds the two forever, but before Jessica can commit, she needs to find a part of herself she lost before the accident. Jesse is the one who tries to keep her safe and wants to be with her always. Just when you think things will happen, the unthinkable happens.

You will cry, you will need tissues. It does end with an HEA that you will be praying for since the beginning.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Part of the Mercenary Hearts Trilogy, this book tells the story of Jesse and Jessica's breakup. Jesse is a Dom and even though they love each other, Jessica is just not submissive. She tries, but she is just so messed up from her childhood that being with someone who wants to control her is not something she can do, even if she is having his baby. Besides, she loves him enough to let him find his happiness somewhere else. Jesse though, furious at her, will never just stop loving his woman. Another good Zurlo read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristine L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I missed the first book in Mercenary Hearts. I should have started with the first book so it's one I'll have to back to read. This is a continuation of Jessica and Jesse's story. Jess is a Dom and believes that Jessica is a submissive but she's not sure she is. This is about Jess and Jessica together and then trying to live apart. This is such a roller coaster of emotions for them because they really love each other. Should start with book one before you read this story. I enjoyed this story and will continue the series even though I'm not much of a cliffhanger reader. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leanne Bryson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Series Delivers!!

Book 2 of the Mercenary Hearts series does not disappoint . Oh my, how I love these two characters! Jesse and Jessica's story continue and what a roller coaster ride. Told mostly from Jesse's POV, he is realizing what Jessica has been saying all along and what he and she are willing to do for love. The book flows beautifully, has a surprise here and there, and tugs at your heart. I am fast becoming a huge fan of Michele Zurlo and am so looking forward to more from these two characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read For Author:
If I could give this book more stars I would - I think Trilogy for Jesse and Jessica is beyond Outstanding. Michele Zurlo has touched my heart with these characters while reading this book I could not put it down. I spaced dinner last night because it had me so captivated. I was cheering for them as individuals and as a couple. That's an incredible book when you get so emotionally involved at the end of a book you have tears running down your face. Michele best book ever!!!! I highly encourage every to read the Trilogy and entire SAFE Series for that matter.

[Marybeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

So...this is book 2 of the Mercenary Hearts Trilogy. You have to read the prequel and book 1 before you read this one. It is not a standalone.

Jessica and Jesse are working for a relationship as Jessica is pregnant. There is a lot of compromise and a few surprises. I liked that Jesse actually started thinking about what was best for Jessica. And Jessica has finally made Jesse understand that she is not a submissive. This ends with a HFN. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like real life, messy, fun, and not wrapped up in a neat bow at the end. Even though it is an action/mercenary book at its heart it’s about relationships, between lovers, friends and family. There is a lot going on in this book and it really is very skillfully handled by Michele Zurlo.
I recommend this series highly.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, what you think you want, it is not the best thing for you.
Making compromises can mame a big difference in your happiness.
Jesse and Jessica will try to build a new kind of relation.
I just loved how both Jess and Jessica worked there differences and I just hate Dean.
The book ends in a cliffhanger.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[SEng · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica and Jesse’s story continues. She’s pregnant with his child but at the end of the last book, she left because she is not submissive. However, their connection is so strong; they can’t stay away from each other. So they decide to be friends and co-parents to the baby. I enjoyed this story as they continue their journey but there is a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to see what happens. I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several books written by Michele Zurlo; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the chemistry between the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

There seem to be so many stumbling blocks in Jesse and Jessica’s relationship. The loss of memory, physical ailments, but most importantly trust. The journey for these two is even harder with the fear of letting go of preconceived notions of how things are supposed to be. I can’t wait for more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jesse is starting to understand that he was not listening to what she was telling him. She is not a submissive and needs to have control in her life. This is the story of them working through some of there problems along with Jessica being pregnant with Jesse's baby. Very good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so captivating from the beginning to the end I was completely drawn in the characters chemistry and attraction was undeniably genuine and definitely sizzling I couldn’t resist reading page after page. This is a great installment in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author. I enjoyed it from beginning to end. It is a well written story that has characters that made the story feel real. I had no problem connecting with them. This is a hot, steamy story that pulled me in right from the beginning. I read this book in one sitting, it was hard to put down. I highly recommend this book.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Action packed storyline with lots of suspense. Likeable characters. Lots of drama. Grabbed my attention from the first page and never lost it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ends in a cliffhanger. This is book 2 of 3 and I would recommend reading this series in order. This is a wonderful story with great characters and has left me needing to read book 3.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a great time reading this book the author brings well developed and engaging and characters that have plenty of chemistry throughout the pages. The flow of the storyline was great.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathy Mccalmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in this trilogy. this series tells about Jesse and Jessica. this story will keep your attention throughout.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbi Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying the books from this author good strong characters and interesting storyline with plots and twists you don’t see coming! Would definitely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jessica & Jesse... these two have a complicated relationship. These two take you on a rollercoaster of emotional times for them. A great story!

[Carmela Dimattia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the mercenary hearts series and what an amazing series this is. I absolutely
love Jesse and Jessica and all the drama that comes with their relationship. They are destined to be together and no matter what life throws in their path or the fact that Jessica believes she’s not what Jesse needs they still manage to come together to give their relationship a chance. Michele Zurlo’s books and characters have found their way into my heart and I have absolutely enjoyed reading this series. Definitely recommend these books

I received an arc copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review


Merged review:

This is the second book in the mercenary hearts series and what an amazing series this is. I absolutely
love Jesse and Jessica and all the drama that comes with their relationship. They are destined to be together and no matter what life throws in their path or the fact that Jessica believes she’s not what Jesse needs they still manage to come together to give their relationship a chance. Michele Zurlo’s books and characters have found their way into my heart and I have absolutely enjoyed reading this series. Definitely recommend these books

I received an arc copy and am voluntarily leaving an honest review

[DM Ryan]

Loved it :)