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Shattered Fate #1
Shattered Fate
Ashley is desperate to escape the arms that once held her tight. When she finally finds the courage to leave a life she never planned on living, the last person she plans on bumping into, is the one person who pushed her away all those years ago.
Colton had it all figured out, or so he thought, until a mistake cost him everything... shattering that illusion. Now he spends his lonely nights chasing away ghosts of the past and his empty days trying to atone for his sins.
When Ashley and Colton's paths cross in the most unexpected of ways, sparks fly, but time has changed them both. For years, thoughts of this moment kept Ashley holding on, but fear of hurting her again has Colton holding back. Opening herself up to love again brings a darkness she's not sure she can survive. Breaking down both of their walls just might prove that sometimes the biggest fight of all, is the battle within.
Can they both let go of the past, to grab hold of the future they once planned?
Colton had it all figured out, or so he thought, until a mistake cost him everything... shattering that illusion. Now he spends his lonely nights chasing away ghosts of the past and his empty days trying to atone for his sins.
When Ashley and Colton's paths cross in the most unexpected of ways, sparks fly, but time has changed them both. For years, thoughts of this moment kept Ashley holding on, but fear of hurting her again has Colton holding back. Opening herself up to love again brings a darkness she's not sure she can survive. Breaking down both of their walls just might prove that sometimes the biggest fight of all, is the battle within.
Can they both let go of the past, to grab hold of the future they once planned?
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 9, 2018
303 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 1, 2021
This deliciously angsty romance checks nearly all the boxes. Traumatized heroine on the run from an abusive ex? Check. Heroine makes new friends as she starts to rediscover who she really is? Check. Sassy new best friend with her own dark secrets? Check! Sexy hero? Kinda check?
While I enjoyed this book, I found that I didn’t connect with the hero as much as the heroine. The entire book is from the heroine’s point of view, but we do get flashbacks to when they fell in love when they were in high school, and in these flashbacks, Colton is quite sweet and the perfect boyfriend. In present day, they almost seamlessly slip back into the way that things once were. I never really had the chance to “fall in love” with Colton, as the heroine never really fell out of love with him, and aside from being incredibly sweet and an underground fighter with a quasi-dark past, he didn’t have much more depth to him.
Nevertheless, this book was an intense and dark read, and I loved the angst!
4 stars.
While I enjoyed this book, I found that I didn’t connect with the hero as much as the heroine. The entire book is from the heroine’s point of view, but we do get flashbacks to when they fell in love when they were in high school, and in these flashbacks, Colton is quite sweet and the perfect boyfriend. In present day, they almost seamlessly slip back into the way that things once were. I never really had the chance to “fall in love” with Colton, as the heroine never really fell out of love with him, and aside from being incredibly sweet and an underground fighter with a quasi-dark past, he didn’t have much more depth to him.
Nevertheless, this book was an intense and dark read, and I loved the angst!
4 stars.
August 8, 2018
Shattered Fate is a book full of pain and heartbreak,
intensely passionate and unexpected from the very beginning. A second chance story with great characters you really care about, I was swept away with the feelings and emotions it brought me. T.L. Anderson is an author I'll definitely be following with keen interest.
*ARC kindly given by the author in exchange of a honest review, thank you so much*
intensely passionate and unexpected from the very beginning. A second chance story with great characters you really care about, I was swept away with the feelings and emotions it brought me. T.L. Anderson is an author I'll definitely be following with keen interest.
*ARC kindly given by the author in exchange of a honest review, thank you so much*
September 14, 2021
Ok but why do these all have to be so disappointing. It’s not even funny, these just keep on coming. I need something good! It started fine, boring and got worse by the minute sorry but this book wasn’t very good. Cover is nice tho.
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September 5, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/5/2019)! 🎁
September 13, 2018
I went into this book blind. Not knowing what to expect or if I would even like it. (Like I do most books I read) this book fair outweighed my expectations by miles. It was raw and unlike anything I have read before.
I feel as if it was a little predictable but not so much that you knew exactly what was going to happen. It’s a good read and I would recommend it over and over again!
I feel as if it was a little predictable but not so much that you knew exactly what was going to happen. It’s a good read and I would recommend it over and over again!
August 17, 2018
Wow for a debut author T.L Anderson gave us a book so full of emotion and the struggle with coping with a past/present that will haunt you in your dreams. Of course this story souly focuses on a very behind closed doors subject and can be rather traumatic for some people. I personally have no such triggers and found myself fully engrossed in Ash's and Colton's story.
I would have liked just a bit more insight into Ash's troubled mind But I didn't write this book and this is how the author wanted it and I respect that.
I will certainly be seeking out more novels from this author.
I would have liked just a bit more insight into Ash's troubled mind But I didn't write this book and this is how the author wanted it and I respect that.
I will certainly be seeking out more novels from this author.
August 2, 2018
This book was so good! Ashley and Colton are high school sweethearts, planning to be together forever, when one night Colton breaks up with Ashley out of nowhere. Heartbroken, she goes off to college, and meets her future husband. Ten years later, Ashley is escaping her marriage, and she runs into Colton again. With many scars and baggage from both of them from the past ten years, they have to work through many issues to see if they’re still meant to be.
This book has so many feels, with lots of great characters. I’d definitely recommend this book.
This book has so many feels, with lots of great characters. I’d definitely recommend this book.
October 31, 2021
To be honest, I picked up Shattered Fate because the cover is cool. It started out pretty well, too. I was a little confused as to why Colton suddenly breaks up with Ashley when they seem so obviously smitten with each other, but the book moves pretty quickly into Ashley's later life when she is married to an abusive man named Greg. It was a good emotional setup--she doesn't know when he's coming home or how drunk he will be and her only real refuge is locking herself in her bathroom. Then Ashley decides to take a chance and make a change and I'm expecting some thrilling game of cat and mouse like in Sleeping With the Enemy.
But Ashley doesn't leave New England for Iowa or take on a new name. She goes to a part of the city that she's never seen (?) and checks in at a Women's Shelter. After that, the whole thing kind of fell apart for me--not because of the plot, but because of the characters and their relationships and the way they talk to each other. Just after coming to the shelter, Ashley meets Mia, who becomes her best friend. Mia helps Ashley get a job and make new friends at the bar where they work and all of a sudden these people are close enough to be family--except it's only been a few days. I could buy that, especially under traumatic circumstances, if they had talked to each other like normal people instead of reciting lines from a public service announcement.
By the end of the novel, I felt like the characters were just mouthpieces for social problems. Ashley notes again and again how many people ignore others in their lives because they spend too much time on their phones. When Colton comes back into the picture, he cites a few statistics on violence against women and invites Ashley to come to his seminar where he teaches women self-defense. As the novel went on, the plot felt much less important than its message, which really bogged down the writing.
It started off really well--kind of treacly--but interesting because we know it's not going to stay sweet for too long. I don't mind the fact that Ashley has been waiting for Colton to come rescue her for most of her married like--I like a good alpha male rescue. What I do mind is the lack of nuance in characters. I'd like to know more about Ashley's relationship with Greg and how it got off track. I'd like to know more about her life with him instead of walking into the middle of a war zone and then getting no real background behind it. She has almost 100 journals--perfect chance to give the reader some history.
One reviewer said the story felt too short--I don't think it's too short. I think it focuses so much on the subject matter that the characters never really gain any nuance. Description-wise--I can see everyone except for Ashley, and that's the brightest spot. I could see Mia and Colton and Phil and even Matt because the physical descriptions worked so well--the author has a rare talent for that. Two lines and you can see the character perfectly in your mind. Then they start to walk and talk and their job is to hit you over the head with a message, which doesn't give the reader much credit. This could have easily been a 5-start book without the social rhetoric.
But Ashley doesn't leave New England for Iowa or take on a new name. She goes to a part of the city that she's never seen (?) and checks in at a Women's Shelter. After that, the whole thing kind of fell apart for me--not because of the plot, but because of the characters and their relationships and the way they talk to each other. Just after coming to the shelter, Ashley meets Mia, who becomes her best friend. Mia helps Ashley get a job and make new friends at the bar where they work and all of a sudden these people are close enough to be family--except it's only been a few days. I could buy that, especially under traumatic circumstances, if they had talked to each other like normal people instead of reciting lines from a public service announcement.
By the end of the novel, I felt like the characters were just mouthpieces for social problems. Ashley notes again and again how many people ignore others in their lives because they spend too much time on their phones. When Colton comes back into the picture, he cites a few statistics on violence against women and invites Ashley to come to his seminar where he teaches women self-defense. As the novel went on, the plot felt much less important than its message, which really bogged down the writing.
It started off really well--kind of treacly--but interesting because we know it's not going to stay sweet for too long. I don't mind the fact that Ashley has been waiting for Colton to come rescue her for most of her married like--I like a good alpha male rescue. What I do mind is the lack of nuance in characters. I'd like to know more about Ashley's relationship with Greg and how it got off track. I'd like to know more about her life with him instead of walking into the middle of a war zone and then getting no real background behind it. She has almost 100 journals--perfect chance to give the reader some history.
One reviewer said the story felt too short--I don't think it's too short. I think it focuses so much on the subject matter that the characters never really gain any nuance. Description-wise--I can see everyone except for Ashley, and that's the brightest spot. I could see Mia and Colton and Phil and even Matt because the physical descriptions worked so well--the author has a rare talent for that. Two lines and you can see the character perfectly in your mind. Then they start to walk and talk and their job is to hit you over the head with a message, which doesn't give the reader much credit. This could have easily been a 5-start book without the social rhetoric.
August 11, 2018
I began this book unlike others. Most of the time when I start a book I do extensive research, look up reviews, find friends that have read it. But I won this one in a Facebook group and after reading the premise decided to go into it blind. It ended up being a great read.
There is some trigger worthy subject matter that I do say to some be cautious about.
The first few pages almost had me not wanting to continue. I can not explain it and if you find yourself doubting your choice in reading material in the very beginning stick with it! It does not take long to get going and it was almost like a new author took over. Hard to explain.
I got really into this book. The secondary characters, especially Mia, and everyone at the bar created such an awesome environment. Away from the drama of the story. I did find things moving very fast in the story. Like it’d feel like weeks should’ve gone by because of the storyline but it’d been 3 days.
Something about Colton just makes my heart skip! Idk. I am a strong feminist-I don’t need a man- kind of woman (even though I’m married 😂) and I’m raising two strong girls but there’s something about books with a strong male lead to help a female character that is just so raw and real and sexy. I liked him.
This book climbed to the front of my recent favorites and I actually plan on rereading it again soon!
There is some trigger worthy subject matter that I do say to some be cautious about.
The first few pages almost had me not wanting to continue. I can not explain it and if you find yourself doubting your choice in reading material in the very beginning stick with it! It does not take long to get going and it was almost like a new author took over. Hard to explain.
I got really into this book. The secondary characters, especially Mia, and everyone at the bar created such an awesome environment. Away from the drama of the story. I did find things moving very fast in the story. Like it’d feel like weeks should’ve gone by because of the storyline but it’d been 3 days.
Something about Colton just makes my heart skip! Idk. I am a strong feminist-I don’t need a man- kind of woman (even though I’m married 😂) and I’m raising two strong girls but there’s something about books with a strong male lead to help a female character that is just so raw and real and sexy. I liked him.
This book climbed to the front of my recent favorites and I actually plan on rereading it again soon!
August 3, 2018
Partners, confidants, beloved, soul mates. Rarely do two souls find one another at such an early age. Innocent and pure at heart, Ashley and Colton find themselves entwined in each other. Youth leads to ignorance and choices made become life altering....a shared destiny is now demolished.
Ten years apart has guided them each down broken passages. Colton fights the demons that try to submerge him with each breath he takes. Too much has been seen, has been experienced, for him to lead a conventional life. Ashley escaped the anguish and heartache by running and tumbling into a situation that controlled her very existence. Pure desperation leads to courage to take the steps needed to break free.
Serendipity, kismet, destiny....Fate will find a way to triumph. Eyes connecting across a crowded room, a deep-seated connection, intense and passionate. That type of love never extinguishes. Can shattered hearts be made whole once again?
TL Anderson is an author with a luminous future. This story is filled with pain, heartbreak and amazing strength. The connection I felt from the characters within the pages to myself was incredible. I look forward to devouring more brilliance from her to nourish my soul.
Ten years apart has guided them each down broken passages. Colton fights the demons that try to submerge him with each breath he takes. Too much has been seen, has been experienced, for him to lead a conventional life. Ashley escaped the anguish and heartache by running and tumbling into a situation that controlled her very existence. Pure desperation leads to courage to take the steps needed to break free.
Serendipity, kismet, destiny....Fate will find a way to triumph. Eyes connecting across a crowded room, a deep-seated connection, intense and passionate. That type of love never extinguishes. Can shattered hearts be made whole once again?
TL Anderson is an author with a luminous future. This story is filled with pain, heartbreak and amazing strength. The connection I felt from the characters within the pages to myself was incredible. I look forward to devouring more brilliance from her to nourish my soul.
December 17, 2018
This book is heartbreaking. I mean so many times your heart just breaks for Ashley. For a debut author, this book is very well written and draws you in. I stayed up way to late reading it and it was hard to put down.
Ashley and Colton have a history but it was cut short. In the process, Ashley moves on but it isn't wine and roses with the new guy. He has anger issues and takes it out on Ashley. She is scared and finally get the chance to run. Her heart has never forgotten about Colton. He is always on her mind. She finds a friend, who seems to issues of her own, but helps Ashley with the nightmares. Colton comes into her life on a crazy night full of surprises. These two still have the feelings but thankfully Colton is smart enough to take things slow. He wants to protect Ashley and take things at her speed. The only issue I have is that I felt like they moved a bit fast when they had sex. I thought maybe they should have waited a little bit longer. Anyway this book has you feeling all kinds of emotions. It was beautifully written and the author definitely did her homework on the sensitive issues brought up in this book. It was a great read!
Ashley and Colton have a history but it was cut short. In the process, Ashley moves on but it isn't wine and roses with the new guy. He has anger issues and takes it out on Ashley. She is scared and finally get the chance to run. Her heart has never forgotten about Colton. He is always on her mind. She finds a friend, who seems to issues of her own, but helps Ashley with the nightmares. Colton comes into her life on a crazy night full of surprises. These two still have the feelings but thankfully Colton is smart enough to take things slow. He wants to protect Ashley and take things at her speed. The only issue I have is that I felt like they moved a bit fast when they had sex. I thought maybe they should have waited a little bit longer. Anyway this book has you feeling all kinds of emotions. It was beautifully written and the author definitely did her homework on the sensitive issues brought up in this book. It was a great read!
August 16, 2020
Given that I lack experience with the subject matter, I found this book flawed. Ashley escapes her abusive husband by running to a domestic abuse shelter. She immediately becomes friends with another resident, Mia, who gets her a job waiting tables in a local bar. Instantly these two bond like sisters. Is that normal in this situation? And is it normal for residents to leave daily for work? Also the story takes place in a relatively short period of time and yet Ashley comments frequently that Mia is rapidly losing weight. If you see someone daily, that is generally not noticed. And how much weight can you lose in a few days? Counseling seems somewhat limited also. I know these are minor details but it makes me question the whole plot. And how many times can Colton lean his forehead on Ashley's?
Reading reviews I knew this would be angsty but there were just too many plot holes for me. I probably won't read Mia's story.
Reading reviews I knew this would be angsty but there were just too many plot holes for me. I probably won't read Mia's story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2018
Shattered Fate is a first time author read with a good storyline and delicate subject matter. Domestic violence surrounds the female main character, Ashley, while poor adolescent choices drive, Colton, the main male character. Both are extremely likable and I felt myself cheering on their behalf throughout. There were times where parts of the story were very drawn out, too wordy or complicated. This did not take away from my enjoyment in reading this. This romance is worth your time. Happy Reading!!!
August 11, 2018
This book was written well, although I felt a little like the story was forced. There is a massive trigger warning for this book, as far as domestic violence and rape goes. I thought it was too short. There was more time to develop the characters naturally, but I didn't have trouble reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2022
Relativity a boring and disappointing read. I understand the concept but there was so much lacking I had a hard time finishing it.
SPOILERS -
A few things that bugged me enough, even if they seem minor to others:
1) Being devastated of being dumped to immediately being involved with a new college “love” to forget? Okay, I get rebounds but you typically don’t go and marry them.
2) Ashley’s age doesn’t add up. She mentions she’s 25 in chapter 11 but it’s been 10 years since Colton left her end of senior year…. So she graduated at 15 years old? How was she driving then? She started college shortly after he abandoned her. Sooo shouldn’t she be 17 at the very least?
3) She has over 100 journals detailing her life and abuse but takes none of them with the exception of the last one… or tries to even remotely hide them more than putting them in the closet under clothes? Um hello, this is solid evidence that could help you. Instead you leave it for him to find and destroy if he decides to go looking. Let’s be honest, the abuser will almost always go through your stuff because they are controlling. Unless you hide something exceptionally well, they will know everything you have or don’t have.
4) To jump into bed with a guy after 10 years a week after you were beaten and raped? Not likely. I don’t care if he was your high school sweetheart or not.
5) Ashley didn’t know what social media or apps were? Interesting considering she was in college for 5 years and that’s shits everywhere. They focused so much on her watching everyone of their phones but for what purpose? This book had so much of this random and useless page filler sprinkled throughout for no real reason. Why? Why are you doing this to me?
6) The lack of character growth was disappointing. Ashley was simply a bore. I didn’t find her strong other than initially leaving but everything after fell into snooze fest, not strength.
7) She never relied on herself, not once. She went from relying on Colton, to Greg. She ran sure but then it was straight to relying on Mia and poof back to Colton. Like chill lady. I want to see female characters who overcome their fear and become strong badass self relying woman. You can want a man, but need one. I don’t expect an immediate transformation of course, but I will revert back to issue number 6 above. Ashley is weak as F*CK.
8) The ending was anti-climactic to say the least. It was rushed and I was hoping it would have made up for the rest of the book…. But nope more disappointment. Greg stabbed Colton - but how? Why didn’t the final fight have more depth? How did “the best” underground fighter be bested by a freaking lawyer? For real?
9) And finally, the epilogue mentions she wouldn’t let Colten touch her without flinching or fear for 6 months after Greg’s latest attack…. Ummmm but when he beat and raped you you were all set to jump in the sack within a weak previously? So what’s different this time? And again you jump into marriage and it wasn’t even a year. How? Why? Uggghhhhhh So f*cking confused
SPOILERS -
A few things that bugged me enough, even if they seem minor to others:
1) Being devastated of being dumped to immediately being involved with a new college “love” to forget? Okay, I get rebounds but you typically don’t go and marry them.
2) Ashley’s age doesn’t add up. She mentions she’s 25 in chapter 11 but it’s been 10 years since Colton left her end of senior year…. So she graduated at 15 years old? How was she driving then? She started college shortly after he abandoned her. Sooo shouldn’t she be 17 at the very least?
3) She has over 100 journals detailing her life and abuse but takes none of them with the exception of the last one… or tries to even remotely hide them more than putting them in the closet under clothes? Um hello, this is solid evidence that could help you. Instead you leave it for him to find and destroy if he decides to go looking. Let’s be honest, the abuser will almost always go through your stuff because they are controlling. Unless you hide something exceptionally well, they will know everything you have or don’t have.
4) To jump into bed with a guy after 10 years a week after you were beaten and raped? Not likely. I don’t care if he was your high school sweetheart or not.
5) Ashley didn’t know what social media or apps were? Interesting considering she was in college for 5 years and that’s shits everywhere. They focused so much on her watching everyone of their phones but for what purpose? This book had so much of this random and useless page filler sprinkled throughout for no real reason. Why? Why are you doing this to me?
6) The lack of character growth was disappointing. Ashley was simply a bore. I didn’t find her strong other than initially leaving but everything after fell into snooze fest, not strength.
7) She never relied on herself, not once. She went from relying on Colton, to Greg. She ran sure but then it was straight to relying on Mia and poof back to Colton. Like chill lady. I want to see female characters who overcome their fear and become strong badass self relying woman. You can want a man, but need one. I don’t expect an immediate transformation of course, but I will revert back to issue number 6 above. Ashley is weak as F*CK.
8) The ending was anti-climactic to say the least. It was rushed and I was hoping it would have made up for the rest of the book…. But nope more disappointment. Greg stabbed Colton - but how? Why didn’t the final fight have more depth? How did “the best” underground fighter be bested by a freaking lawyer? For real?
9) And finally, the epilogue mentions she wouldn’t let Colten touch her without flinching or fear for 6 months after Greg’s latest attack…. Ummmm but when he beat and raped you you were all set to jump in the sack within a weak previously? So what’s different this time? And again you jump into marriage and it wasn’t even a year. How? Why? Uggghhhhhh So f*cking confused
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2025
A mess
This had potential. The story could have been good, but there were so many inconsistencies and the writing was just poor. The author really needs an editor or to do better research. The story starts the last day of high school which would put Ashley at 18. Then it jumps forward 10 years. So she would be 28 but at one point she says she 25. She says she hasn't worked in 6 years which would make her 22 at that time. We're told she worked as a psychologist but that takes anywhere from 8 to 12 years of school so it's just not possible. The author made a mess of that. Then we're lead to believe that Ashley has always been in love with Colton and that he's the only thing that carried her through even though they hadn't seen each other since he dumped her. But late in the book she mentions that she met her husband, Greg the 1st day of college and he immediately pushed all thoughts of Colton from her mind. So clearly Colton didn't mean that much if was so easily replaced in her thoughts. Speaking of Colton, he is a shell of a character. He simply exists to get angry when Ashley won't tell him anything about what's happened to her. He's also supposed to be a great fighter but Greg puts him in the hospital pretty easily so that doesn't hold up either. The biggest problem is that the author just lacks the skill to properly convey what's happening in a lot if scenes. The dialogue rarely matched the extreme reactions the characters had to that dialogue. Also, the next book is about Mia and Jackson when the author spends a lot of effort to set up a romance between Mia and Trent. Jackson doesn't appear until the epilogue. I highly doubt I'll ever read that book.
This had potential. The story could have been good, but there were so many inconsistencies and the writing was just poor. The author really needs an editor or to do better research. The story starts the last day of high school which would put Ashley at 18. Then it jumps forward 10 years. So she would be 28 but at one point she says she 25. She says she hasn't worked in 6 years which would make her 22 at that time. We're told she worked as a psychologist but that takes anywhere from 8 to 12 years of school so it's just not possible. The author made a mess of that. Then we're lead to believe that Ashley has always been in love with Colton and that he's the only thing that carried her through even though they hadn't seen each other since he dumped her. But late in the book she mentions that she met her husband, Greg the 1st day of college and he immediately pushed all thoughts of Colton from her mind. So clearly Colton didn't mean that much if was so easily replaced in her thoughts. Speaking of Colton, he is a shell of a character. He simply exists to get angry when Ashley won't tell him anything about what's happened to her. He's also supposed to be a great fighter but Greg puts him in the hospital pretty easily so that doesn't hold up either. The biggest problem is that the author just lacks the skill to properly convey what's happening in a lot if scenes. The dialogue rarely matched the extreme reactions the characters had to that dialogue. Also, the next book is about Mia and Jackson when the author spends a lot of effort to set up a romance between Mia and Trent. Jackson doesn't appear until the epilogue. I highly doubt I'll ever read that book.
October 27, 2018
I’m stunned that this is a debut novel, the author sure knows how to get a story across.
Triggers - Domestic Violence
This story gives you hatred, anger, violence, betrayal, lies, hidden secrets, sadness, friendships, loyalty and love.
⛔⛔⛔SOME SPOILERS⛔⛔⛔
Ashley and Colton are a ride or die back in high school then boom Colton dumps Ashley out of the blue. She rebounds marrying Greg. Greg ticks all the right boxes on the outside but indoors he's a wife beating and manipulative asshole, now 10 years older she can't take any more and runs for her life.
Colton re-enters Ashley’s life, but he's not the sweet boy she fell for and has dreamed about as a coping mechanism for the last decade. Now he's rough around the edges, tatted, can definitely handle himself but also hides his insecurities and troubles.
Her heart still wants him but can she have him with his lifestyle? and will he want her with her past and all fears?
Ashley finds strength and a great friendship in Mia when she needs it most, but Mia is as deep as the ocean hiding something that looks like it's dragging her into hell. We don't find out in this book but Mia’s story is coming soon and I can't wait to find out what she's hiding.
Triggers - Domestic Violence
This story gives you hatred, anger, violence, betrayal, lies, hidden secrets, sadness, friendships, loyalty and love.
⛔⛔⛔SOME SPOILERS⛔⛔⛔
Ashley and Colton are a ride or die back in high school then boom Colton dumps Ashley out of the blue. She rebounds marrying Greg. Greg ticks all the right boxes on the outside but indoors he's a wife beating and manipulative asshole, now 10 years older she can't take any more and runs for her life.
Colton re-enters Ashley’s life, but he's not the sweet boy she fell for and has dreamed about as a coping mechanism for the last decade. Now he's rough around the edges, tatted, can definitely handle himself but also hides his insecurities and troubles.
Her heart still wants him but can she have him with his lifestyle? and will he want her with her past and all fears?
Ashley finds strength and a great friendship in Mia when she needs it most, but Mia is as deep as the ocean hiding something that looks like it's dragging her into hell. We don't find out in this book but Mia’s story is coming soon and I can't wait to find out what she's hiding.
October 20, 2020
4.5
Colton and Ashley.
This is a classic, but who doesn’t love them? Especially within this genre. The whole story is great, though the ending is bad and leaves a few plot holes. Nevertheless, if you like this subgenre read this book.
Genre; romance - abused FMC meets protector.
TW/Aspects; Physical, sexual, emotional, financial, rape, underground fighting, homeless women’s shelter, bars.
In the first few chapters Ash(ley) is still with her Abusive husband, Greg. She runs to the local shelter, where she meets a new friend and together they start standing on their two feet again. Throughout the book she has panic attacks, ptsd and paranoia, all understandable and there was the almost perfect amount of it (except once good sexual instance that I felt was too soon). She finds her ex boyfriend, and soulmate. They struggle through their secrets and pasts, all while running from them too. Colton, a veteran with ptsd and a bad past. Ashley, a master degree graduate running from her ex husband.
[SPOILER] Classic; surviving, running from ex, finding assistance, falling in love, struggling with lover bc past issues, ex finding them, things get violent, HEA with lover.
Colton and Ashley.
This is a classic, but who doesn’t love them? Especially within this genre. The whole story is great, though the ending is bad and leaves a few plot holes. Nevertheless, if you like this subgenre read this book.
Genre; romance - abused FMC meets protector.
TW/Aspects; Physical, sexual, emotional, financial, rape, underground fighting, homeless women’s shelter, bars.
In the first few chapters Ash(ley) is still with her Abusive husband, Greg. She runs to the local shelter, where she meets a new friend and together they start standing on their two feet again. Throughout the book she has panic attacks, ptsd and paranoia, all understandable and there was the almost perfect amount of it (except once good sexual instance that I felt was too soon). She finds her ex boyfriend, and soulmate. They struggle through their secrets and pasts, all while running from them too. Colton, a veteran with ptsd and a bad past. Ashley, a master degree graduate running from her ex husband.
[SPOILER] Classic; surviving, running from ex, finding assistance, falling in love, struggling with lover bc past issues, ex finding them, things get violent, HEA with lover.
July 25, 2024
Lack of character or world building. Bland writing.
One of the things I love about these books is the high emotions they evoke. With this particular book, it was just very “meh” IMO. Very numb.
The author didn’t follow a timeline very well. She mentioned several times that everything happened within a 10yr period from when they were 18… then mentioned the FMC was 24 in present day…
Not once did the author say where they were on the map or give much of any indication as to how far away from her past she actually physically was. All the author talked about in regards to location was that they were within walking distance of everywhere they wanted to go.
The characters mental state and rationale were very unrealistic. I can’t really go into too much detail on that without spoilers but there were expectations within friendships and a re-blooming relationship that were extremely unrealistic in regards to recovery without any professional help. Demands for answers when these people either just met or are getting reacquainted over a 3 day period, that just won’t happen with a traumatized victim. Her reactions were mostly numb or dissociative. Just wasn’t the best IMO. Very YA in an adult world.
One of the things I love about these books is the high emotions they evoke. With this particular book, it was just very “meh” IMO. Very numb.
The author didn’t follow a timeline very well. She mentioned several times that everything happened within a 10yr period from when they were 18… then mentioned the FMC was 24 in present day…
Not once did the author say where they were on the map or give much of any indication as to how far away from her past she actually physically was. All the author talked about in regards to location was that they were within walking distance of everywhere they wanted to go.
The characters mental state and rationale were very unrealistic. I can’t really go into too much detail on that without spoilers but there were expectations within friendships and a re-blooming relationship that were extremely unrealistic in regards to recovery without any professional help. Demands for answers when these people either just met or are getting reacquainted over a 3 day period, that just won’t happen with a traumatized victim. Her reactions were mostly numb or dissociative. Just wasn’t the best IMO. Very YA in an adult world.
November 28, 2018
Genre: Romance - Suspense, Dark, Second-Chance
Standalone: Yes
Part of a Series: I hope so
POV: Mostly Ashley
Steam Level: Some warm moments
5/5
Have you ever read a book that left you with no words, that leaves you breathless, makes you want to continue to the end but also not because then it will end? That was my reaction of Shattered Fate. Shattered Fate is graphic and heart-wrenching. A story of fear and survival, healing and second chances. While graphic at times, the violence is used as a catalyst. You can feel Ashley's emotions, anxiety and guilty. With T.L. Anderson you enter the mind-space of a survivor, which isn't for the faint of heart. This is a story that needs to be told, to be heard. Anyone can fall victim to domestic violence and T.L. Anderson does a great job showing us this in Shattered Fate. This new-to-me author just got herself a new reader. I truly hope that Mia gets her own story so that we can revisit Ashley and Colton and read more of T.L. Anderson's work.
I received this book for free from the author. This is my hones and voluntary review.
Standalone: Yes
Part of a Series: I hope so
POV: Mostly Ashley
Steam Level: Some warm moments
5/5
Have you ever read a book that left you with no words, that leaves you breathless, makes you want to continue to the end but also not because then it will end? That was my reaction of Shattered Fate. Shattered Fate is graphic and heart-wrenching. A story of fear and survival, healing and second chances. While graphic at times, the violence is used as a catalyst. You can feel Ashley's emotions, anxiety and guilty. With T.L. Anderson you enter the mind-space of a survivor, which isn't for the faint of heart. This is a story that needs to be told, to be heard. Anyone can fall victim to domestic violence and T.L. Anderson does a great job showing us this in Shattered Fate. This new-to-me author just got herself a new reader. I truly hope that Mia gets her own story so that we can revisit Ashley and Colton and read more of T.L. Anderson's work.
I received this book for free from the author. This is my hones and voluntary review.
December 26, 2018
A book about finding yourself after an abusive relationship and second chances at love. Ashley and Colton were high school loves that were meant to be until Colton made a mistake and left Ashley behind. Heart broken and vulnerable Ashley finds herself married to the an abuser. Years later she gathers her courage to leave her husband and unexpectedly crosses paths with Colton again. I liked both the H and the h and found myself rooting for their second chance at love. My only issue was that we never quite got to understand how Ashley, a strong female character became so broken down and stayed in the abusive relationship for ten year? I wish we had been given more insight into to her frame of mind and emotional state, instead of jumping forward to ten years later, the day she decided to leave her abusive husband. It just felt like a bit of a gap in the story was missing (for me at least). Still an interesting read.
December 17, 2018
Overall, this novel was a pretty good read. I liked how the entire issue of marriage and a second chance romance was shown in this novel. The author did an excellent job being extremely realistic in the trauma both characters had to endure, without making it dark and disturbing. I liked how I was able to root for the hero and heroine. They have gone through so much and yet they find the light. This novel shows the power of soulmates and true love. What I liked the most was being in the characters head. I could see how much I only wanted them to be together and overcome their hurdles. The only reason I am docking of a star in this novel was because of the predictability towards the end. I felt that it ended like a cliched second chance romance with an abrupt end. Otherwise, definetly one click this novel for a read with the feels and cries.
November 1, 2020
A riveting thriller with evocative scenarios.
The most surprising thing about this debut romance novel by T.L. Anderson was the wonderful writing. For a novel that I found in a romance writers’ group, Anderson’s high-quality prose show great fluency of syntax and vocabulary, while moving the story forward, transcending romance fodder.
The plot is well structured starting out strong and masterfully coming full circle. The magical imagery evokes graphic novel or gaming, while remaining very credible. The story is written first person present the whole way (except for a single chapter at the end), which is appropriate because the female protagonist’s experiences feel authentic as though living it firsthand. And her experience is gut-wrenchingly tense and beautifully depicted.
I rooted for her survival and now I want to see how her future plays out in book 2!
The most surprising thing about this debut romance novel by T.L. Anderson was the wonderful writing. For a novel that I found in a romance writers’ group, Anderson’s high-quality prose show great fluency of syntax and vocabulary, while moving the story forward, transcending romance fodder.
The plot is well structured starting out strong and masterfully coming full circle. The magical imagery evokes graphic novel or gaming, while remaining very credible. The story is written first person present the whole way (except for a single chapter at the end), which is appropriate because the female protagonist’s experiences feel authentic as though living it firsthand. And her experience is gut-wrenchingly tense and beautifully depicted.
I rooted for her survival and now I want to see how her future plays out in book 2!
November 27, 2018
what a great story.
Ashley Andrews and Colten Graves have dated all through high school, but just after they leave he bumps her. She has no idea why, will she ever find out. Ashley gets on with her life she goes to collage where she meets Greg Hensley three years later they marry. After 7 years of being abused by him she leaves. She takes refuge in a shelter, while there she makes a friend Mia. Mia gets Ashley a job at job at the bar where she works, and this is where the story really picks up lots of things happen. This book has quite a bit to it and i dont want to give anything away. This really is a great story, happy reading
Ashley Andrews and Colten Graves have dated all through high school, but just after they leave he bumps her. She has no idea why, will she ever find out. Ashley gets on with her life she goes to collage where she meets Greg Hensley three years later they marry. After 7 years of being abused by him she leaves. She takes refuge in a shelter, while there she makes a friend Mia. Mia gets Ashley a job at job at the bar where she works, and this is where the story really picks up lots of things happen. This book has quite a bit to it and i dont want to give anything away. This really is a great story, happy reading
August 4, 2019
So I devoured this book in 1 day. It's the stay up late because you need to finish this chapter but end up reading 10 more chapters kind of book.
This is a story about survival, friendship, reconnections and at its core it's about strength. Strength to get through the hard to get to the easy. Strength to stand up for yourself and to find yourself along the way.
The content can be hard to read at times just because its disturbing however its beautifully written.
This is the author to keep your eye out for.
This is a story about survival, friendship, reconnections and at its core it's about strength. Strength to get through the hard to get to the easy. Strength to stand up for yourself and to find yourself along the way.
The content can be hard to read at times just because its disturbing however its beautifully written.
This is the author to keep your eye out for.
July 25, 2020
Wowza! T.L. Anderson packed a punch with this book. She literally shattered my heart with it and slowly pieced it back together. I loved the emotion and heart and soul of this book. The journey was unexpected and I really had no idea what to expect with this book, as I went into it blind and I'm so happy I did. It was so moving. I don't think a book has affected me like this in a long time. This is one of those books I will be thinking about for months to come and recommending to people when they want book recommendations. I can't wait to read more books by this author.
February 15, 2021
That was intense. ****spoilers***
A very tragic story about heartbreak, domestic abuse and second chances.
Man this author really throws you right into the fear and pain of an abused wife. She illustrated that even the most fiery and smart women can be manipulated into an abusive relationship.
The story of survival and strength was beautiful.
She eventually gets her happy ending but man the struggle and challengers were pretty hard to read.
Great book but thread the trigger warning about physical, sexual and mental abuse.
A very tragic story about heartbreak, domestic abuse and second chances.
Man this author really throws you right into the fear and pain of an abused wife. She illustrated that even the most fiery and smart women can be manipulated into an abusive relationship.
The story of survival and strength was beautiful.
She eventually gets her happy ending but man the struggle and challengers were pretty hard to read.
Great book but thread the trigger warning about physical, sexual and mental abuse.
November 26, 2018
This story is so good!!! It does come with trigger warnings. Ashley, Mia and Colton are amazing characters! Ashley and Colton are high school sweethearts that end abruptly. Ashley ends up with a life she never expected. Deciding to leave that life behind she befriends Mia, and through that friendship ends up running into Colton. This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster and hit you all in the feels. I cannot wait to read Mia's story next!!
February 19, 2021
Well written, great read
This book was so good, this author truly has a way with words. Domestic abuse is such a tragic thing, this author did such a great job with such a tough subject. I felt for all of these characters, Ashley was strong enough to leave her abuser to try and have a better life. Colten was strong enough to heal himself and help heal Ashley. Mia, I need to know what was going on with Mia, you can tell she has dark demons.. such a good read.
This book was so good, this author truly has a way with words. Domestic abuse is such a tragic thing, this author did such a great job with such a tough subject. I felt for all of these characters, Ashley was strong enough to leave her abuser to try and have a better life. Colten was strong enough to heal himself and help heal Ashley. Mia, I need to know what was going on with Mia, you can tell she has dark demons.. such a good read.
December 1, 2018
The first thing i would say about this book it that it has domestic abuse and only read if your ok with that subject.
I read the blurb and like the sound of this, I'm glad i read this as the author did a really good job with this hard subject, There were a few part where i got very emotional, Over all i did like this a would recommend it.
I read the blurb and like the sound of this, I'm glad i read this as the author did a really good job with this hard subject, There were a few part where i got very emotional, Over all i did like this a would recommend it.
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