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Love Grows #1

Not So Broken

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A billionaire in hiding. An independent woman. When they collide, love grows in an unexpected way!

When a one-night stands ends badly, with HUGE complications…
A bitter divorce from my cheating ex-husband left me reeling, but I forged a new life on my own. Now on the verge of a promotion, everything I want is in reach—except a family. I’ve all but given up on ever having a child.
So I decided I would adopt one on my own.
Then one wild night changed everything. I was swept away by Gibson, a hot-looking handyman who was, well, pretty good with his hands. And then some.
But there were unintended consequences from our tryst. Now he and I are forever connected, and it turns out Gibson was not at all what he seemed to be.
We barely know each other, and now he is in my life forever. Maybe we can make this work if we stay platonic.
That will be easy, right?


The Love Grows Series- Strong, protective heroes. Feisty, independent heroines. When they meet, Love Grows in unexpected ways.

213 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 8, 2019

110 people are currently reading
454 people want to read

About the author

Renee Regent

16 books370 followers
Sizzling heat, surprise twists, and all the feels…
Diving deep into each character, Renee delivers layered plots with a satisfying outcome. She writes with heart, heat, and an attention to detail that gives each story a realistic feel.
Renee lives in Atlanta with her husband, three cats and four turtles. When not writing, she can be found sitting on her back deck, enjoying nature. Wine may or may not be involved….


I'f you'd like to hear more about my books or upcoming releases, join my newsletter or browse my website:
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Happy reading!

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5 stars
92 (40%)
4 stars
64 (28%)
3 stars
45 (19%)
2 stars
18 (7%)
1 star
7 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Angela.
8,013 reviews117 followers
January 30, 2019
5 Stars

Not So Broken is the first book in the Love Grows series by Renee Regent. This story was a surprising experience, because even though I knew from the blurb that I would enjoy it, I just didn’t expect for it to creep its way under my skin and into my heart quite the way it did. Yes, the storyline was a little bit predictable, but it was so well written, and the characters were so wonderfully complex, that the predictability didn’t matter. I was invested and along for the ride, no matter what.
Gibson Colebank is the heir to the Colebank fortune, and a wealthy man in his own right- so why would he be living in a small country town and working as a handyman? Well, a tragedy shattered his world a year earlier, and Gib ‘checked out’ of his life- he found his way to Tilly, Georgia- and has lived a simple life ever since. He can’t face the life he lived before, guilt weighs too heavily on his shoulders. He has no interest in relationships and pretty much keeps to himself, in his simple cabin in the picturesque hills. He thinks he’s better off alone, as he really has nothing to offer anyone, anyway. But an out of character night out, changes everything- and turns his simple life upside down.
Sacha Rowan is a Rep in Liquor Sales. Her Job takes her all over the country, clocking up thousands of miles every year. Her hard work and dedication has seen her rise to the top of her field, now with a new promotion in sight. But she’s not getting any younger- her biological clock is ticking very loudly and the window to motherhood is closing, she has pretty much given up on having a child of her own. She has goals and is on a mission to fulfill her dreams- and failure isn’t an option. She is focused on her plans, her work, and success- her plans don’t include a man, especially after a bitter divorce left her reeling- she now has no interest in a relationship, ever. Stopping in town on business, a night out at the local bar will bring about a surprising development, which may just change everything.
This billionaire/contemporary romance was really well done- with secrets, baggage, angst, push-pull, some drama, trust issues, wonderful characters, a great storyline, sexy scenes, hot and steamy moments, and plenty of emotion. I was definitely invested in the outcome from very early on in the story. It was a little predictable, but I non-the-less enjoyed the journey that the author and characters took me on. There were times where Sacha really annoyed and frustrated me with her stubborn and argumentative nature. Her Ice Queen routine wore a bit thin at times, and some of the push-pull was quite maddening. But through it all, the story coaxed me on. The emotional quality to the story really surprised me, and yes, I shed a few tears. I particularly loved Marvil, one of the secondary characters, and he really stole a lot of the scenes he was in- while adding an extra element to the overall storyline.
I can’t wait for “Not So Wrong” (Book #2) to be released, because if this first story is anything to go by, book #2 is set to be fantastic!

Thank you, Ms. Regent!
264 reviews4 followers
January 17, 2019
Not So Broken is the first book in the Love Grows Series by author Renee Regent and tells the story of Gibson Colebank and Sacha Rowan. After suffering a terrible blow to his personal life Gibson moves to the tiny town of Tilly, Georgia. A broken man Gibson longs to start a new life away from his family, friends and wealthy lifestyle. He finds that as a handy man in Tilly until he meets Sacha one night and once again his life changes. Sacha has a purpose in life, to remain independent and never to be hurt again as she was by her ex-husband and she now has a plan she is working toward that she refuses to give up but things change once she meets Gibson on a work trip.
This was a sweet story focused on two very strong characters who have struggled in their pasts and carry a lot of baggage. They take a journey to find what is truly important to them. I can honestly say that of the two main characters Gibson was my favorite and I wish there were more men like him in real life. Sacha struck me as a little too harsh at times almost like she was trying too hard to be tough when she needed to listen and maybe even show a little more empathy. With that being said I look forward to reading the next in the series.
Profile Image for Laura Furuta.
2,047 reviews28 followers
January 8, 2019
Not So Broken (Love Grows Series Book 1)
By: Renee Regent
5 out of 5 stars

The story Not So Broken (Love Grows Series Book 1) by Renee Regent is a contemporary romance book. It is a story that I loved reading. One of the reasons I loved it so much is the characters of Gibson and Sacha. Gibson is a man who believes that he is broken. A tragedy has left him with memories and feelings of guilt. He has no interest in relationships. He has given up on love. Then he meets Sacha. Sacha is a woman who is intelligent, independent, beautiful, and strong. She is highly motivated and determined when it comes to making her dreams come true. There is no room for a relationship in her life right now. One night changes everything. Gibson is finding himself falling for Sacha. Sacha has never had anyone make her feel the way that Gibson does, however, she is one that guards her heart. Will Gibson be able to convince Sacha that they belong together? Will he get past the shields that she puts up? There is a connection and passion between these two. What does the future hold for them? Read this book to find out. This is a story that I just couldn’t put down. My emotions went through ups and downs right along with Sacha’s and Gibson’s. These two are being pulled towards each other. They are two people who I grew to care about and I wanted them to find happiness. Feelings/emotions are felt by both and there are steamy scenes included that make the temperature in the room rise. You are also introduced to other secondary characters who are part of the story and I enjoyed reading about the part that they play in the lives of Sacha and Gibson. There are moments that made me sad, ones that make me smile, and moments that warmed my heart. A story that you won’t want to put down until you have read the final page.
Profile Image for Heather.
1,654 reviews3 followers
January 25, 2019
Not So Broken, by Renee Regent, is the first book of the Love Grows series. This story is a contemporary romance that brings together two unlikely individuals who each have their own secrets. Set in Georgia, the author provides all those details to showcase the difference between small town and big city living. The main/lead characters, Gibson and Sacha, irrevocably drawn to one another. The hurdles that they each have to maneuver gives great depth to each of them. The supporting cast of characters add additional light to the story. Both Gibson and Sacha bought show emotional growth as the story progresses. The method in which Renee Regent has these characters work through their struggles was well thought out. I look forward to read future books by this author.
1,465 reviews1 follower
September 14, 2022
Sadness and hurt created happiness

Gibson ran thinking he couldn't deal with the hurt he felt inside of him. Sacha mad at her and was determined to draw her own path life. Tough and stubborn as she was, she had compassion with whatever she decided to do. He build a quiet life and was enjoying the simple things in his life. Until they met and both were very intoxicated and got carried away. Sacha wanted to forget what happened until 2 months later.

To be as old as they were, Sacha acted too immature. Who wanted to raise a child alone if the other person wanted to support and be part of the child's life. Especially when you know they are a good person.
Profile Image for Sandra Lopez.
Author 3 books348 followers
November 20, 2022
A billionaire, heir to a resort empire, was hiding out in the seclusion of the GA mountains. Ever since the death of his wife and unborn child, he kept away, forgetting the man he used to be. Sacha is a lonely divorcee who wants to forget her failed marriage by climbing the corporate ladder.
The diary-style narrative is nice, but ordinary and unamusing. Rather long and slow. Just wasn’t interesting.
155 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2019
Good

Two mismatched people, each with their own heartaches come together. Gibson, a billionaire, left everything behind after he lost his wife and unborn baby. He moved to a cabin in the mountains. Sasha had her own share of heartache after going through a divorce, not to mention being deserted by her father when she was young.
Profile Image for Jacki Tananis.
241 reviews
May 24, 2023
A sweet ONS to lovers story. It is classified as an enemies to lovers, but I didn’t see them as enemies at any point. Just a fiercely independent FMC who is also headstrong and took a while to accept that not all men leave.
447 reviews
September 21, 2021
3.5 stars. This was an enjoyable book with lovable characters.Too bad about the disappointing rush at the end, if not it would get 4 stars.
234 reviews
March 1, 2022
First Time

First time reading one of Renee's books and enjoyed the book and especially the story lines and the characters. this is why I gave it a five star rating.u
3 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2023
I just loved it. The characters' wounds and insecurities are described with the best possible way
Profile Image for The Written.
496 reviews6 followers
April 6, 2022
CLEAN - NEVER RECOMMEND

the author ruins the book by using the word clean regarding the male and female leads’ sexual health. This happens at the first sex scene. It’s a Deal Breaker so I DNF at 17 %. I thought this was actually going to be a decent read. NOPE! It’s using the term clean is wrong, disrespectful and ignorant. Great job alienating 1 in 4 or 5 of your readers who have an sti/std. Renee Regent you suck!
SEX SCENES - Yes. At least one that I didn’t finish reading so I assume there are more.
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,306 reviews24 followers
October 23, 2022
A warm, emotional read. I enjoyed the building of the relationship.
Profile Image for Jenni.
6,262 reviews76 followers
February 3, 2019
Not So Broken (Love Grows Series Book 1) by Renee Regent is a contemporary romance that finds its way in to your heart and is a fantastic start to the series. It is a bit of an emotional read, sometimes there is laughter but other times there are tears. I was captivated at the raw and real feel of the storyline and I fell in love with Sacha and Gibson.They are two people that are complex, with secrets and trust issues and lots of baggage. But for all that they are wonderful characters, as are their best friends who had me laughing and crying.

Gibson, is a broken man and has left his high profile life behind to somewhere remote and isolated to heal. He is no longer the man he was, that man left a long time ago but the pain, the hurt, the blame he has place upon himself may never be broken. Now he is faced with a miracle, one that brings heartache and sadness but also an unknown joy. Now if only he could make this strong headed woman see he was what she needed. His emotions are so raw that you feel them right along with him and you just want to wrap him up and show him that it will all be ok.

Sacha, was blindsided by a cheating past but came out stronger than before. One night has now left her with a miracle, something she knew was impossible, something she was told would never happen. There were times I wanted to knock some sense into Sacha, she frustrated me a lot. She is just so stubborn and headstrong and didn’t need a man but she is also focused, determined, and goal orientated to get what she wants to support her life.

Not So Broken is a great story, with lots of emotions. I was highly invested in their lives and the outcome from the very start. Now I can’t wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Celtic Chic Books.
240 reviews14 followers
February 15, 2019
Not So Broken (Love Grows Series Book 1)
By Renee Regent
5 Stars

Who doesn’t love a story with a troubled hero and a feisty heroine?? Not So Broken by Renee Regent delivers this in spades with the first book in her Love Grows Series. A first-time reader of this author for me but I was pleased with a well-written story, great characters making this book hard to put down.

Gibson has known tragedy. The guilt and remorse he feels have left him reeling and feeling unworthy of anybody’s trust and convinced that he will be alone forever. Yet an unexpected connection is made with the feisty Sacha and now it is his turn to convince her to give their budding romance a chance.

Sacha has pulled herself up from her bootstraps and forged a new life. Set on living her life the way she wants and achieving the goals she has set for herself. But fate has thrown a curveball at her and she is left wondering if she is ready for these new changes. She was convinced nothing would alter her new life path but will this unexpected relationship with Gibson change her thinking?

Ms. Regent pulls the reader in with these engaging characters. You can’t help but have deep feels for Gibson and cheer Sacha on her independence and strength. The chemistry and deep connection these two forge throughout the book only enhances the story. I truly enjoyed getting to know not only these characters but the story was fresh and enjoyable. I look forward to more books by Ms. Regent and highly recommend this book for your TBR list.
679 reviews5 followers
January 21, 2019
Not So Broken (Love Grows Series, # 1) by Renee Regent
5 out of 5 stars
Not so Broken is the first book in the Love Grow series written by Ms. Regent and it’s the first book that I have read by this author. The characters are well written and amazing and the things that they over come in this story made them feel real. The story line is different and amazing.
What happens when billionaire in hiding meets a feisty independent woman?
Gibson after losing his wife and child in a devastating accident, he turns his back on everything—including his business empire. He felt unworthy of anyone’s trust, convinced himself he would never find love again, let alone have a family. Then he met Sacha.
It was only supposed to be one perfect night of passion but, it forged a connection between us we never expected.
Now Gib has to convince Sacha they are meant to be together?
Sacha after a bitter divorce left her reeling she forged a new life on her own. Now on the verge of a promotion, everything she want is in reach except a family. Se has all but given up on ever having a child. Then one wild night changed everything. She was swept away by Gibson and now he and I are forever connected. But we barely know each other, and it seems we both have secrets.
After everything Sacha has gone through she doesn’t trust men so how can she convince Gib they are better off apart?
This was a great book and I cant wait to read the next book in this series…
By
Tracy
@tracym
Profile Image for Debi.
1,128 reviews6 followers
January 26, 2019
Not So Broken (Love Grows Series Book 1) by Renee Regent

5 Stars

After reading the synopsis for this book I knew I had to read it, I've never read anything by this author before so that was another reason I had to try it and am I glad I did. This story just flowed so beautifully and I had a hard time putting it down.

I really liked the storyline and although I kind of knew how it would end I had no idea how they would get to the end and that was the part I enjoyed...The building of a relationship and learning to trust after heart ache and hurt from the past was done in an awesome way. I loved both of these characters, although Sacha took a bit longer to win me over, once she did I couldnt help but pull for these two people. I loved the secondary characters in the story as well, Sachas best friend Melanie was awesome and knowing she gets the next book will make it that much harder to wait. I loved the family part of this story as well, but I think my favorite person aside from Gibson and Sacha was Marvil, he made me smile and also broke my heart.

I love a book that makes me feel the emotions I'm reading and this one did that and I can not wait for Melanie's story and to get to know more about Spencer in the next book.

I'm so glad I picked this book up and will be looking at what else this author has available while I wait for book 2.

Loved it!!
Profile Image for Michelle Austin.
2,830 reviews44 followers
February 15, 2019
Not so Broken was a great 5 star read and book one in the Love Grows Series.

We start with Gibson who is living in Tilly, GA. He has been living like a recluse for the last few months grieving and trying to move forward with his life. When his father calls and gives him a deadline on coming back home, he has to decide if he will ever be ready to return.

Sacha went to Tilly to sell some alcohol to the local establishments. She is also nursing a broken heart and isn’t ready for anything serious. She ends up meeting Gibson while out at one of the local bars, and they hit it off. They end up having a very steamy one night stand.

Maybe it was the scotch, or maybe I had been pent up too long. I found myself hoping for much more than a dance with this woman tonight.

When Sasha returns to Tilly she has some shocking news for Gib. Sasha was in shock with the news herself, it was something she never thought could happen. Will the news finally bring Gib home? Will it bring him and Sasha together as a couple?

There is so much more to this great read. Gib and Sasha tested my patience at times, especially Sasha. My emotions were all over the place. Renee Regent pulled me right in with her writing. I wouldn’t mind seeing more from Gib and Sasha and I look forward to reading more from this series.
Profile Image for Michelle Mulvey.
1,144 reviews13 followers
February 16, 2019
Not So Broken was such a great book and shows that their most definitely can be love after tremendous heartbreak! Gibson is actually a billionaire known as John G Colebank III of heir to the Colebank fortune. He is currently hiding out in Tilly, Georgia working as a handyman. No one knows who he really is. He has endured the worst kind of heartbreak and cannot go back to his normal life.
Sasha is visiting Tilly trying to gain clients. While she is visiting the town her eyes land on a gorgeous looking man she names mountain man. Sasha has also been through a lot. After trying to get pregnant for years which was unsuccessful, her husband tells her one day he’s leaving and his girlfriend is pregnant. Sasha is the top salesperson in her company and is working towards adopting a child of her own.

The night Gib and Sasha meet each other in a bar, they talk and dance the night away while having many drinks. After a hot one night stand, things seem to turn south the next morning. While Gib and Sasha can’t get the other out of their heads, things happen and it causes them to see each other again.
I really fell in love with Gibs character. He really is such a nice guy and I was rooting for him the entire book. I do t want to give to much away but, this is a great read! One you won’t want to miss out on.
Profile Image for Badass Lioness.
375 reviews13 followers
August 26, 2019
She's 37 and he's almost 40. He is hiding out in a small town, making a living as a carpenter and hiding from his family. She wants to have a baby and be a single mother. When they get together one night while drunk, they have sex. When she realizes that she's pregnant, she wants him to have nothing to do with her baby. However, he is not willing to go away.

He has a secret and this baby and relationship with her is his chance to redeem himself from a grave past mistake. She is not as secure in her job as she would hope to be. These conflicts and insecurities bind them together and are tearing them apart. As they spend time together, trust, romance and some very sexy scenes occur. I liked that I got to know both of them and began to like them a lot. In the beginning, I was not so sure how I felt about either one. Neither one initially endeared themselves to me, but as I got to know them and the story unfolded, I began to really enjoy this romance.

Them the real world interrupts, and decisions have to be made. I enjoyed the writing style as well as this being a mature romance with two people at a turning point in their lives. The power of love to transform, redeem, and bring him back to life made it quite satisfying.

This was the first book I have read by this author. I am ready for more in this series.
Profile Image for Karyn Taylor.
741 reviews2 followers
January 29, 2019
Not So Broken is the first book in the Love Grows series by Renee Regent. I had never previously read any work by this author but the synopsis of this book lead me to believe that it would be exactly the type of book that I would love reading. It was so right. I loved this book. The 2 main characters are so broken and totally convinced that relationships are the last thing that they want. That is until they met each other.
After suffering a great tragedy in his life Gibson Colebank moves to the sleepy town of Tilly to get away from it all and start afresh. Sasha Rowan has always wanted one thing in life – a family. Imagine her devastation when her husband announces that he’s leaving her, for his pregnant girlfriend. When work takes Sasha to the sleepy town of Tilly, her and Gibson’s one night of passion changes both of their lives forever.
I absolutely adored both Gibson and Sasha. Gibson is a sweetheart but most of the time he just antagonises Sasha. Sasha is one major feisty lady. Her heart has been broken and she just doesn’t trust men, so continually takes things that Gibson says the wrong way, leading to a very angst filled story that will keep you gripped from beginning to end. I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be reading more from Renee Regent.
Profile Image for Cindy.
846 reviews13 followers
January 27, 2019
Not So Broken
Love Grows Series
Book 1
By Renee Regent
☆☆☆☆☆
This is a full length novel in the Love Grows Series. Giving romance another chance, is what you will find in this story.

Sacha is coming back after her divorce. Deciding she does not need a man to be happy. She puts her work first and foremost. She even loves going on the road to find new clients. The only real thing missing is having a family. She will not give up in having a child though. But how?

Gibson is trying to get his life back on track. After losing his wife and child in a horrible accident. He had it all, now he wants nothing. He moves to a tiny town, finds a cabin to live in. Doing odd jobs for the townspeople. He loves working with his hands. This way he can stay away from romance and commitment. Or can he?

Renee Regent let's her heart shine in this second chance at love romance. Her story is a page turner, I could not put it down. The more I read, the more I wanted. I love Sacha and Gibson’s story. It has all the feels. Put me on a romantic rollercoaster. I am looking forward to reading the next story I this series.
Profile Image for Katie.
2,260 reviews15 followers
February 8, 2019
Not So Broken (Love Grows Series Book 1)
By Renee Regent
5 stars

Oh I absolutely adored this book! From the very start until the very end I was completely swept up in what I was reading. This is also the first book that I have read by this author and what an introduction it was. I didn’t want the story to end. I’m not sure I expected to fall in love with Gibson as much as I did – oh my heart broke for him completely. He was just everything I love in an alpha male type; I definitely shed a few tears for him too. The author wrote about him in such a way that I could feel everything that he did. It didn’t take me long either to fall in love with Sacha, hurt in the past for a different reason I was totally rooting for this two to help each other find happiness again. Sacha was the feisty female that I felt Gibson needed to help him and he was the protective male that she needed. I utterly adored them both!
I am super excited for the next book in the series – judging by this one I can see that this is going to be a super 5 star series!!!
1,909 reviews25 followers
February 10, 2019
Not So Broken ( Love Grows Series Book 1) by Renee Regent. This is the story of Gibson and Sacha. Gibson is the only heir tot he Colebank Fortune but once he loses his wife and daughter and in tragic accident he gives up on life. He moves to a very small town in Georgia and works as a handyman. His life is quiet, simple and lonely but he doesn't think he deserves happiness after letting his wife and daughter down. Sacha is a up and coming businesswoman who is well on her way to a promotion at her job as a liquor sales person. She is beautiful, sassy and independent but after a horrible divorces doesn't believe she will ever have the family she so wants. One night she is in a the small town of Tilly Georgia and she meets Gibson. Sparks fly but will they let their guard down enough to see where this might take them or will they let their past destroy their futures. This book is a super quick read and I can't wait to read the other books in the series.
Profile Image for Robin Rankin.
1,203 reviews5 followers
September 27, 2024
Not so Broken by Renee Regent is the first book in the Love Grows series. I enjoyed this book, thought the story was well written and the characters were great, especially the grumpy neighbor Marvil. He seemed to make me smile no matter the situation.

Gibson is a good guy who has had some bad stuff happen to him like losing his wife. He finds a new life after running away from the pain and guilt. I really liked him a lot, he was kind hearted and willing to do the right thing always.

Sacha seemed a little rough around the edges for me. I get she got hurt bad by her Ex but she seemed a little angier and more bitter than she should be after the time that past

There were a few things I wish had been given more attention. To me it felt like a couple of loose ends that could have been tied up, especially the surprise Sacha stumbled upon.

All of that being said it was a good book to read a intend to keep up with this series.
Profile Image for Shannon.
845 reviews4 followers
January 30, 2019
This book was so sweet and really good. Everything was evenly paced until we got to about 90% and then it seemed like a race to the finish. The characters, Gibson and Sacha, acted like they just realized the credits were going to roll and they needed to get everything in before the end. The ending was everything I hoped it would be and I enjoyed the overall story!

The main male character, Gibson, oh he is manly, strong, smart and when understands and cherishes Sacha’s strong and independent character, he is even more dreamy!

“She was a beautiful, strong woman who didn’t need a man. Yet here she was, leaving me in control of her pleasure.”

The main female character, Sacha, is smart, independent, bold and beautiful. She knows what she wants.

While this was my first book by this author I am trying to patiently wait for the next story.
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