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The Montgomerys #2
Broken Halo
Zero three zero nine.
Four little numbers … four little words. They might be random and insignificant to anyone else, but they meant something to us.
No, they meant everything to us.
Until they were ripped away.
That was the day our lives took a different course. One we had no control over. One that others puppeteered and mangled into a cluster so big, it left us with emotional scars lined with resentment and venom toward each other.
All because I’m a Montgomery and he’s a Barrett.
Now, Trig’s back and he hates me with more hostility and rage than ever … and I’ve learned to do the same. But when the world comes crashing down and the stakes couldn’t be higher, I can’t run and I can’t hide.
I need the help of the one person whose loathing for me runs deeper than blood and colder than his icy-blue stare.
I need Trig.
I need him more than I know.
Four little numbers … four little words. They might be random and insignificant to anyone else, but they meant something to us.
No, they meant everything to us.
Until they were ripped away.
That was the day our lives took a different course. One we had no control over. One that others puppeteered and mangled into a cluster so big, it left us with emotional scars lined with resentment and venom toward each other.
All because I’m a Montgomery and he’s a Barrett.
Now, Trig’s back and he hates me with more hostility and rage than ever … and I’ve learned to do the same. But when the world comes crashing down and the stakes couldn’t be higher, I can’t run and I can’t hide.
I need the help of the one person whose loathing for me runs deeper than blood and colder than his icy-blue stare.
I need Trig.
I need him more than I know.
349 pages, ebook
First published June 11, 2019
1690 people are currently reading
2646 people want to read
About the author
Brynne Asher
31 books4,135 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Brynne Asher. Writer of romance. Lover of caffeine and cocktails.
Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
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Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
Sign up for Brynne's newsletter, it's a spam-free zone: http://eepurl.com/gFVMUP
Follow Brynne on the Freakybook: https://www.facebook.com/brynneashera...
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June 6, 2019
Broken Halo is book two in The Montgomerys series by Brynne Asher. Prepare yourselves everyone. Prepare yourselves to fall in love, to meet a new Hero that is going to trump all previous book boyfriends. Prepare yourselves for Trig Barrett.
Ten years previously, Ellie Montgomery was just over eighteen years old. Trig worked for her family’s ranch. He was a few years older but I can’t remember by how much. But they were madly in love.
Now in present time, Trig is back in Dallas. Ellie’s older sister is now running Montgomery Industries and has hired Trig as lead legal council. Ellie had a disastrous marriage. Her husband is now dead but she does have a beautiful baby boy, Griffin, who stole my heart. This little guy takes adorableness to a whole new level!
Trig came back to Dallas to take care of his sick mother. But she’s gone now. Not only does he have to deal with the heart breaking loss of her, he finds himself face to face with the woman he hoped to never face again, the woman who first stole his heart, and then shattered it.
It’s been four months since everything went down with Ellie’s awful husband. She’s trying to take care of her son, and get her dance studio ready to open. She’s barely hanging on as it is, but then the bottom falls out of her world all over again and what she holds most dear is threatened. The last person she wants to come to her rescue is Trig Barrett but in her desperation, she has no choice.
In the ten years that have passed, Trig tried to make himself hate Ellie. And Ellie tried to do everything in her power to forget Trig. But their memories were always there, overshadowing everything.
Trig is trying to handle all of his responsibilities with his job. At the same time, he is trying to investigate what is happening with Ellie. I honestly don’t know how he handled everything. But he did.
This book consumed me. First, we get quite a bit of Jen and Eli from the first book so I loved seeing how happy they were. Then, there is Trig. I am in love with him. This man! Despite everything, he made something of himself. I sighed, I swooned and I gasped. This book has sweet romance, sizzling sexy times, and nail biting suspenseful times. There were so many twists and turns, so much is happening. These types of romances where the couple has suffered so much makes my heart pound. I both wanted and needed them to be together. These two took up my every thought during the two days it took me to read the book. I couldn’t think of anything else. So, thank you, Brynne Asher, for this fantastic book. She tells us that the series will continue with a third book. I can’t wait to see who the next one will be about.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
Ten years previously, Ellie Montgomery was just over eighteen years old. Trig worked for her family’s ranch. He was a few years older but I can’t remember by how much. But they were madly in love.
Now in present time, Trig is back in Dallas. Ellie’s older sister is now running Montgomery Industries and has hired Trig as lead legal council. Ellie had a disastrous marriage. Her husband is now dead but she does have a beautiful baby boy, Griffin, who stole my heart. This little guy takes adorableness to a whole new level!
Trig came back to Dallas to take care of his sick mother. But she’s gone now. Not only does he have to deal with the heart breaking loss of her, he finds himself face to face with the woman he hoped to never face again, the woman who first stole his heart, and then shattered it.
It’s been four months since everything went down with Ellie’s awful husband. She’s trying to take care of her son, and get her dance studio ready to open. She’s barely hanging on as it is, but then the bottom falls out of her world all over again and what she holds most dear is threatened. The last person she wants to come to her rescue is Trig Barrett but in her desperation, she has no choice.
In the ten years that have passed, Trig tried to make himself hate Ellie. And Ellie tried to do everything in her power to forget Trig. But their memories were always there, overshadowing everything.
Trig is trying to handle all of his responsibilities with his job. At the same time, he is trying to investigate what is happening with Ellie. I honestly don’t know how he handled everything. But he did.
This book consumed me. First, we get quite a bit of Jen and Eli from the first book so I loved seeing how happy they were. Then, there is Trig. I am in love with him. This man! Despite everything, he made something of himself. I sighed, I swooned and I gasped. This book has sweet romance, sizzling sexy times, and nail biting suspenseful times. There were so many twists and turns, so much is happening. These types of romances where the couple has suffered so much makes my heart pound. I both wanted and needed them to be together. These two took up my every thought during the two days it took me to read the book. I couldn’t think of anything else. So, thank you, Brynne Asher, for this fantastic book. She tells us that the series will continue with a third book. I can’t wait to see who the next one will be about.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
June 11, 2019
Holy heck! This book is EVERYTHING! As soon as I finished it, I wanted to reread it again just to make sure it was as exceptional as I thought.
Ten years ago Trig and Ellie’s young love was snatched away and they were both left with hearts that would never heal. Now, Ellie is facing the fight of her life and Trig steps in to help…despite her protests that she needs nothing from him.
I absolutely loved Trig and Ellie. Their brokenness was written in every devastating word this author laid out on the page. My heart actually hurt from the pain these characters carried with them and their obstacles were such that I actually wondered how they could ever find healing and redemption.
”I’ve shed more tears for Trig than any one person deserves in a lifetime. They came equally for my love and hate for him and even more because I didn’t know which one I felt most.
Hate and love – the deepest of all emotions are the ones that can wreak havoc on your soul. How many nights did I wish for an apathetic heart?”
Trig was a perfect hero. His love for Ellie was fierce, even when buried beneath the heartache of the past. He was determined to win her again and he chased her with a determination that I haven’t read in a very long time, if ever. I loved that despite her pushing him away, he continued to pursue her, to be there for her and her son, and most of all to keep her safe.
Ellie’s life has been a roadmap of heartbreak and bad decisions. The only thing right in her life is her son, Griffin. The past has left its mark on her soul and to have that dangled in front of her again, and resist the temptation of all that is Trig, is an enormous undertaking. Ms. Asher proves once more that she knows how to do strong heroines.
This story moved me as I witnessed the pain, the reunion, the struggle and then the reconciliation between Ellie and Trig. The chemistry between them sizzled in every exchange they had and only escalated as the story progressed. Even so, this has a slower burn to it as they move from the past into the present and then the future.
And the drama! There was constantly something happening to keep these characters on their toes and me right along with them. By the time I reached the end with all its twisty goodness I was riding an emotional high unlike any I’ve had for a while. Then to add icing to an already delicious cake, we are given an amazing epilogue that had me tearing up even while my heart rejoiced.
This is definitely going into my top reads and I can’t recommend it enough!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Ten years ago Trig and Ellie’s young love was snatched away and they were both left with hearts that would never heal. Now, Ellie is facing the fight of her life and Trig steps in to help…despite her protests that she needs nothing from him.
I absolutely loved Trig and Ellie. Their brokenness was written in every devastating word this author laid out on the page. My heart actually hurt from the pain these characters carried with them and their obstacles were such that I actually wondered how they could ever find healing and redemption.
”I’ve shed more tears for Trig than any one person deserves in a lifetime. They came equally for my love and hate for him and even more because I didn’t know which one I felt most.
Hate and love – the deepest of all emotions are the ones that can wreak havoc on your soul. How many nights did I wish for an apathetic heart?”
Trig was a perfect hero. His love for Ellie was fierce, even when buried beneath the heartache of the past. He was determined to win her again and he chased her with a determination that I haven’t read in a very long time, if ever. I loved that despite her pushing him away, he continued to pursue her, to be there for her and her son, and most of all to keep her safe.
Ellie’s life has been a roadmap of heartbreak and bad decisions. The only thing right in her life is her son, Griffin. The past has left its mark on her soul and to have that dangled in front of her again, and resist the temptation of all that is Trig, is an enormous undertaking. Ms. Asher proves once more that she knows how to do strong heroines.
This story moved me as I witnessed the pain, the reunion, the struggle and then the reconciliation between Ellie and Trig. The chemistry between them sizzled in every exchange they had and only escalated as the story progressed. Even so, this has a slower burn to it as they move from the past into the present and then the future.
And the drama! There was constantly something happening to keep these characters on their toes and me right along with them. By the time I reached the end with all its twisty goodness I was riding an emotional high unlike any I’ve had for a while. Then to add icing to an already delicious cake, we are given an amazing epilogue that had me tearing up even while my heart rejoiced.
This is definitely going into my top reads and I can’t recommend it enough!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
June 11, 2019
Broken Halo is the best second chance romance I have read to date! I don't get all excited about second chance, usually because of the reasons a couple split up. This one had me completely intrigued about what went down 10 years prior and it ended up being a great twist to the story.
Everything about this book had me on the edge of my seat. There is a lot happening at a time when Ellie is most vulnerable and I had no clue what would happen next. The way Easton (Trig) swoops in and protects her earned him a spot in my favorite Heroes list. He bulldozed his way in and took charge. I loved that!
I also really enjoyed that Jen and Eli were in this book quite a bit. I think I fell a little bit more for Eli after the way he handled things with the Jen and Ellie. This author really knows how to write the best kind of man most women dream of.
Everything about this book had me on the edge of my seat. There is a lot happening at a time when Ellie is most vulnerable and I had no clue what would happen next. The way Easton (Trig) swoops in and protects her earned him a spot in my favorite Heroes list. He bulldozed his way in and took charge. I loved that!
I also really enjoyed that Jen and Eli were in this book quite a bit. I think I fell a little bit more for Eli after the way he handled things with the Jen and Ellie. This author really knows how to write the best kind of man most women dream of.
June 11, 2019
NOW LIVE
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Brynne Asher never fails to captivate me with her stories and this one was no different. From the first page I found myself unable to stop reading and was so invested in these characters' lives. I needed to know everything about them and I loved that there was so much that I had to keep reading to figure out. There wasn't a ton of information that you don't know but just little pieces of Trig and Ellie that you didn't have the full story on and I really liked the way it kept me in suspense.
Do you ever have those books that you read and they make you go silent? Like you're so attuned with a character that you don't want reality to step in and rip you away and you fully immerse yourself into the book and ignore everything else including talking to other people? Because that's how I was with Ellie. I felt for this girl so much and she had me wanting to be alone and focus solely on her story.
I'm probably making no sense and sounding like a complete wackadoodle, but just know that Ellie was an amazing character. And Trig was equally amazing, especially when he was with Ellie. Both of their strength had me admiring them so much and I was cheering them on to finally be together.
Bottom line, read this dang story! I would say it could be read as a standalone if you don't mind spoilers about the first book. But I think it's best to read this series in order to get the full effect of the Montgomerys.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Brynne Asher never fails to captivate me with her stories and this one was no different. From the first page I found myself unable to stop reading and was so invested in these characters' lives. I needed to know everything about them and I loved that there was so much that I had to keep reading to figure out. There wasn't a ton of information that you don't know but just little pieces of Trig and Ellie that you didn't have the full story on and I really liked the way it kept me in suspense.
Do you ever have those books that you read and they make you go silent? Like you're so attuned with a character that you don't want reality to step in and rip you away and you fully immerse yourself into the book and ignore everything else including talking to other people? Because that's how I was with Ellie. I felt for this girl so much and she had me wanting to be alone and focus solely on her story.
I'm probably making no sense and sounding like a complete wackadoodle, but just know that Ellie was an amazing character. And Trig was equally amazing, especially when he was with Ellie. Both of their strength had me admiring them so much and I was cheering them on to finally be together.
Bottom line, read this dang story! I would say it could be read as a standalone if you don't mind spoilers about the first book. But I think it's best to read this series in order to get the full effect of the Montgomerys.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2021
4.25 stars
the angst here is like watching/listening to Taylor Swift’s All Too Well: The Short Film on repeat. im talking about the ✦magnitude✦ of pain and heartbreak. 💔 this book is a second chance romance with twists and miscommunication that actually made me want to cry instead of bang my head against the wall. i call that a win. ❤
the angst here is like watching/listening to Taylor Swift’s All Too Well: The Short Film on repeat. im talking about the ✦magnitude✦ of pain and heartbreak. 💔 this book is a second chance romance with twists and miscommunication that actually made me want to cry instead of bang my head against the wall. i call that a win. ❤
Read
July 13, 2022The heroine’s weak, annoying and tiring character, the endless drama and all that miscommunication, ruined the book for me.
Dnf @ 44%.
Dnf @ 44%.
dnf
June 12, 2019Dnfed @ 23%
Unlikeable hero and if she forgives him quick like he hadn't treated her horrible then shes weak and pathetic.
Both have not been celibate, but same old, same old. She had a cheater for a husband. She had a shitty life with him. Meanwhile I'll bet hero did not have any problems in the sex department.
He hated her, he could care less what happened to her, he was her lawyer because he was being paid by her sister or else he wouldn't even moved a finger to defend her ass.
And her sister? Needed to stop meddling in her sister's life. Heroine told her that stop calling the jacka** but she continued doing so.
Unlikeable hero and if she forgives him quick like he hadn't treated her horrible then shes weak and pathetic.
Both have not been celibate, but same old, same old. She had a cheater for a husband. She had a shitty life with him. Meanwhile I'll bet hero did not have any problems in the sex department.
He hated her, he could care less what happened to her, he was her lawyer because he was being paid by her sister or else he wouldn't even moved a finger to defend her ass.
And her sister? Needed to stop meddling in her sister's life. Heroine told her that stop calling the jacka** but she continued doing so.
June 9, 2019
Can’t pick your family…
The Montgomery’s are considered the pillars of society and the Barrett’s are the scum of the earth. This is going to seem weird considering the whole series is about them, but I’m not a big fan of the Montgomery family. The Barrett family are not at all like they’re portrayed…well, 2 out of 3 of the Barrett’s are not the scum of the earth. The other one is an absolute DOUCHEWAFFLE! I think every family has one of those you wish you could disown. Can’t pick your family, though unfortunately.
I don’t hate the Montgomery’s, but I don’t particularly like the way they use their money to get whatever they want. The head of the family, Kipp, is an arrogant, domineering jerk. He loves his family so much that he doesn’t care what he must do or who he must pay to keep them protected and out of harm's way. Unfortunately, his ideas of “in their best interest” and his family’s differ quite considerably. Ellie, the baby of the family and Trig (aka Easton), Ellie’s first love are proof that he got things wrong…very, very wrong.
Now, the Barrett family has a very bad reputation due to Trig’s father, Ray. For the last ten years, Ray has been behind bars for cooking Meth. With such a bad egg for a father, you would think that Trig might have a tendency towards evilness; luckily, his mother, Faye balanced out the bad with her sweet, caring and protective nature. Trig has spent all his life trying to get away from his tainted name while keeping a firm connection with his mother. With the number of barriers in his way, Trig shows amazing strength and resilience to get where he is. Trig Barrett is my favourite kind of hero.
Broken Halo is the story of young love being broken and never recovered from. Love turned to hate and that hate simmered for ten long years. Both Ellie and Trig attempt to live happy and successful lives without each other but something was always missing. Trig made a name for himself and a career he can be proud of but it’s a lonely existence hanging with all his piles of money. Ellie made a bad decision in marriage but walked away with a beautiful son. It takes time for them to move away from the resentment that festered, and they must learn to listen and trust each other again.
While I enjoyed Broken Halo, I have to admit that Ellie drove me a bit crazy. I find it frustrating when the heroines are constantly crying and falling in a heap as the people around are forced to carry her load. I don’t think this was solely Ellie’s fault though. She has spent years being “looked after” by her family and money can fix most things without having to lift a finger. I do see some strength shine through by the end, but I would have liked to see her take charge of her problems instead of counting on Trig.
I LOVED Trig!! His strength, perseverance and determination to be better than what he was born into made him someone I admired. I am very envious of his ability to hide his emotions and use his intelligence when faced with confrontation. I have been known for blowing my top a time or two and regretting it almost immediately. Maybe one day I can grow to be more like Trig. 😉
I enjoyed reading Broken Halo and getting to know a few more of Brynne Asher’s wonderful characters. I honestly think Trig and Griffin (Ellie’s son) stole the show and an honourable mention must go to Eli (Ellie’s soon to be BIL) because he’s funny…and not a Montgomery, just marrying one.
If you haven’t read a Brynne Asher story yet, I highly recommend giving her a try.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
The Montgomery’s are considered the pillars of society and the Barrett’s are the scum of the earth. This is going to seem weird considering the whole series is about them, but I’m not a big fan of the Montgomery family. The Barrett family are not at all like they’re portrayed…well, 2 out of 3 of the Barrett’s are not the scum of the earth. The other one is an absolute DOUCHEWAFFLE! I think every family has one of those you wish you could disown. Can’t pick your family, though unfortunately.
I don’t hate the Montgomery’s, but I don’t particularly like the way they use their money to get whatever they want. The head of the family, Kipp, is an arrogant, domineering jerk. He loves his family so much that he doesn’t care what he must do or who he must pay to keep them protected and out of harm's way. Unfortunately, his ideas of “in their best interest” and his family’s differ quite considerably. Ellie, the baby of the family and Trig (aka Easton), Ellie’s first love are proof that he got things wrong…very, very wrong.
Now, the Barrett family has a very bad reputation due to Trig’s father, Ray. For the last ten years, Ray has been behind bars for cooking Meth. With such a bad egg for a father, you would think that Trig might have a tendency towards evilness; luckily, his mother, Faye balanced out the bad with her sweet, caring and protective nature. Trig has spent all his life trying to get away from his tainted name while keeping a firm connection with his mother. With the number of barriers in his way, Trig shows amazing strength and resilience to get where he is. Trig Barrett is my favourite kind of hero.
Broken Halo is the story of young love being broken and never recovered from. Love turned to hate and that hate simmered for ten long years. Both Ellie and Trig attempt to live happy and successful lives without each other but something was always missing. Trig made a name for himself and a career he can be proud of but it’s a lonely existence hanging with all his piles of money. Ellie made a bad decision in marriage but walked away with a beautiful son. It takes time for them to move away from the resentment that festered, and they must learn to listen and trust each other again.
While I enjoyed Broken Halo, I have to admit that Ellie drove me a bit crazy. I find it frustrating when the heroines are constantly crying and falling in a heap as the people around are forced to carry her load. I don’t think this was solely Ellie’s fault though. She has spent years being “looked after” by her family and money can fix most things without having to lift a finger. I do see some strength shine through by the end, but I would have liked to see her take charge of her problems instead of counting on Trig.
I LOVED Trig!! His strength, perseverance and determination to be better than what he was born into made him someone I admired. I am very envious of his ability to hide his emotions and use his intelligence when faced with confrontation. I have been known for blowing my top a time or two and regretting it almost immediately. Maybe one day I can grow to be more like Trig. 😉
I enjoyed reading Broken Halo and getting to know a few more of Brynne Asher’s wonderful characters. I honestly think Trig and Griffin (Ellie’s son) stole the show and an honourable mention must go to Eli (Ellie’s soon to be BIL) because he’s funny…and not a Montgomery, just marrying one.
If you haven’t read a Brynne Asher story yet, I highly recommend giving her a try.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
February 17, 2020
A magnificent book that will break you only to ensure you're healed by the end.
I'm not going to tell tales, this book was incredibly hard, but oh so beautiful. No one should ever have underestimated the dancer and the cowboy.
A love story of heartbreak, miscommunication, forced proximity, and sheer beauty. Trig and Ellie have survived more than most people their age, but that's all they've done - survive.
The pure pain driving this beautiful story had me in tears for many pages, but in between the tears were small moments of love and laughter between Ellie and Jen. Huge moments of triumph whenever Trig had the smallest victory.
An amazing roller coaster ride with twists and turns in the dark, and an ending I never saw coming. While Bad Situation (Montgomery's Book I) remains in my top 10 of 2018, Broken Halo has stormed into my top 5 of 2019 stunningly. Ms. Asher's ability to spin a tale of heartbreak and renewal is phenomenal.
With one of the most brilliant epilogues I've ever read, I remain on pins and needles for Montgomery's Book 3! Brynne Asher absolutely slayed with Broken Halo, and it deserves far more than 5 stars!
I'm not going to tell tales, this book was incredibly hard, but oh so beautiful. No one should ever have underestimated the dancer and the cowboy.
A love story of heartbreak, miscommunication, forced proximity, and sheer beauty. Trig and Ellie have survived more than most people their age, but that's all they've done - survive.
The pure pain driving this beautiful story had me in tears for many pages, but in between the tears were small moments of love and laughter between Ellie and Jen. Huge moments of triumph whenever Trig had the smallest victory.
An amazing roller coaster ride with twists and turns in the dark, and an ending I never saw coming. While Bad Situation (Montgomery's Book I) remains in my top 10 of 2018, Broken Halo has stormed into my top 5 of 2019 stunningly. Ms. Asher's ability to spin a tale of heartbreak and renewal is phenomenal.
With one of the most brilliant epilogues I've ever read, I remain on pins and needles for Montgomery's Book 3! Brynne Asher absolutely slayed with Broken Halo, and it deserves far more than 5 stars!
June 13, 2019
https://www.instagram.com/p/BybOeQbo7nw/
Oh my... Brynne Asher's BROKEN HALO wrecked emotional havoc in my heart, and put all the tiny pieces back together in the most gripping and seductive of ways! Trig and Ellie’s story will pull you through the full spectrum of feelings, of that I have no doubt. No worries though, the second of the Montgomery’s is an emotional rehab on its own, so you don’t want to miss this, believe me.
I couldn’t have been more intrigued by Trig and Ellie’s background – and future – while reading Bad Situation, so was beyond thrilled when Broken Halo hit my e-reader. Their story was far deeper and intense than I excepted, and that is saying something considering the anticipated combustion already surrounding on book one.
We not only lost each other, we lost everything else, too.
The woman who haunts me in the worst ways a person can.
Hearts can’t break if they haven’t loved.
Broken Halo was indeed the literary FULL PACKAGE: all the hurt, all the pain, all the forgiveness, all the banter, all the happiness, all the passion and most of all, ALL THE LOVE! It is impossible to read this extraordinary and oh so realistic characters and not fall in love with their love story and root for them to get their HEA.
As much as I’ve accomplished since I lost her, nothing has been harder than hating her.
But loving her?
Fuck, that’s as easy as breathing.
Second nature.
Ellie was such an incredible female main character, a true heroine. Her past – and present – heartbreak – her ‘wild’ personality, her heartfelt love for those around her, specially her baby boy, was so touching, I couldn’t her but adore her. And the way she make Trig work for it, and not give in instantly, I was cheering her on! She was fantastic!
I have my Ellie back.
Fuck the force that tries to separate us again. I’ll die before I’ll allow that to happen.
Trig, maybe because of how much I connected and felt Ellie’s pain, was a bit harder for me to warm up to. With how forward and strong Ellie proved to be in the past, I felt she deserved a bit more from him, at least a reasonable doubt situation, lol, but once he pulled his head out of his @ss and realized the error of his ways, and fought for her, for them…Wow… It was full on Alpha mode, and when he never gave up on them, fought to prove to her they could have their much wanted HEA, now that was impossible to resist.
History. It can tear you up and put you back together in a way you’ll never look the same.
Here we are, ten years later, on the other side of hell.
And I feel like I can finally breathe.
The setting, with the flash back of the past intertwined with their scenes of the present, were perfectly foreseen to keep us on the edge of our seats and uncovered what had happened to separated them and their young love, ten years ago. Now, a decade after, and so many years of hurt and pain need to be unveiled and overcome. Broken Halo is true second chance love, of destined soulmates finding each other again, moving on from their hurtful past, and building a forever future HEA.
“So you’d rather fuck around with me?” I quip.
My comment might’ve been offhand but the mirth disappears from his rugged features. “Every day, angel. I want to fuck around with you every single day for the rest of my life.”
“You’re impossible.”
“Impossibly obsessed,” he amends. “You know you love it.”
Ms. Asher talented writing once again shone trough, and it was visible, and FELT from the very first line of this book, until the very last, and hinting at more to come. Trig and Ellie’s journey was gripping in a way that is rare for me these days, they were such complex characters, and I was so incredibly entranced in their relationship development, that time truly flew by. And all this deliciously enticing secondary characters, the suspense subplot, just hook us even more, and left us begging for the next book. Can’t wait for more of this series and even more Brynne Asher’s writing! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
“Love you in a way I’ll never stop, Ellie.”
“Loving you has proven to be the hardest and easiest thing I’ve ever done, angel.”
ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review
For full review with Release Blitz, check out my Blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
June 19, 2022
Great book! 4.5 stars!
I love this series! I love how we get plenty of time for the MCs to reconnect and a lot of scenes between them and Griffin! It wasn't as good as the first book, in my opinion, there was less humor and less sexy times, and I really just need more Eli, but still great book! Can't wait for the next!
Safety:
Second chance
Both were with other people during separation. Some details from hero, little details from heroine except she got married but the marriage was bad. She has a kid from the marriage
Om drama- just some slight mentions of her ex
Ow drama- just some slight mentions of his being with ow and 1 short relationship
Only with each other after they meet again
No manhoes or virgins (her first time was with him though)
I love this series! I love how we get plenty of time for the MCs to reconnect and a lot of scenes between them and Griffin! It wasn't as good as the first book, in my opinion, there was less humor and less sexy times, and I really just need more Eli, but still great book! Can't wait for the next!
Safety:
Second chance
Both were with other people during separation. Some details from hero, little details from heroine except she got married but the marriage was bad. She has a kid from the marriage
Om drama- just some slight mentions of her ex
Ow drama- just some slight mentions of his being with ow and 1 short relationship
Only with each other after they meet again
No manhoes or virgins (her first time was with him though)
June 23, 2023
2 stars. Same old shit with slightly different details.
I’m so tired of reading books by this author and being disappointed. I loved her Killers series, but now I’m questioning if I would feel differently reading those books again. My biggest issue… why are her heroines always fake strong? The heroine’s “strength” is given lip service, but when it comes right down to it, she’s nothing without the hero coming in and saving the day. The heroine of this book is a mother and business owner and somehow she has only half a spine when it comes to the hero. Any interaction they have ends with her bending to the hero’s will as he steamrolls over her words and forces her to his side. It was painful to read. The hero of this book would literally grab the heroine and hold her until she was no longer able to resist him. She had every reason to be mad at him, but she allowed him to do as he pleased with little pushback. Any resistance that she managed was by running away from him and not talking to him - because as soon as they were together he would steamroll her and she would collapse (literally) under his will.
There’s also the small matter of how they lived their lives during their separation… which is just so predictably misogynistic. The hero went to school, got his degree, became a successful lawyer, was a manwhore for a while trying to forget the heroine, and had women who wanted to be in relationships with him who he pushed away, he eventually resorted to having ONSs and focused on his career. Meanwhile, it’s implied that the heroine went from being with the hero to being celibate to marrying her horrible evil husband who was killed in book 1, and then having his baby and staying celibate again until the hero. No boyfriends were ever mentioned, no other men outside of the two. She may have gotten married but it just HAD TO BE to the worst man possible, who cheated and used her and tried to kill her. Like what the hell is that double standard? And why is it so fucking common?? I’m so sick of reading books that have the heroine suffering while the hero lives a decent life!
And I’m not even going to get started on the second chance romance aspect of this book, which was just poorly executed and made me hate the hero and see that the heroine was just too easily manipulated by all of the men in her life. She really never managed to change.
So to end my rant, I’ll just say that I’m disappointed that all of my recent reads by Brynne Asher have been unimpressive. I’m actually scared to reread the Killers books just in case I hate them the second time around. I’m going to continue this series because I already own the audiobook, which I’m sure to regret using my audible credit for. Wish me luck!
Safe w exceptions:
Heroine not a virgin, but hero took her virginity when they were together 10 years in the past, there are some flashbacks to the past
Slight age gap
Hero and heroine separated for 10 years partially because of outside forces and partially because he was an idiot
Hero became a manwhore for some time after separation from heroine to try to forget her, didn’t have any super serious relationships during the 10 years apart
It’s implied but not stated that Heroine stayed celibate until she got married and after her husband died (in book 1)
Heroine has baby with dead husband
No OM/OW drama
No scenes with OM/OW
Both with other during separation, but no one else once this book starts
No cheating between MCs.
TW: miscarriage (memories), violence, death, murder, abuse & drugs mentioned, loss of mother
I’m so tired of reading books by this author and being disappointed. I loved her Killers series, but now I’m questioning if I would feel differently reading those books again. My biggest issue… why are her heroines always fake strong? The heroine’s “strength” is given lip service, but when it comes right down to it, she’s nothing without the hero coming in and saving the day. The heroine of this book is a mother and business owner and somehow she has only half a spine when it comes to the hero. Any interaction they have ends with her bending to the hero’s will as he steamrolls over her words and forces her to his side. It was painful to read. The hero of this book would literally grab the heroine and hold her until she was no longer able to resist him. She had every reason to be mad at him, but she allowed him to do as he pleased with little pushback. Any resistance that she managed was by running away from him and not talking to him - because as soon as they were together he would steamroll her and she would collapse (literally) under his will.
There’s also the small matter of how they lived their lives during their separation… which is just so predictably misogynistic. The hero went to school, got his degree, became a successful lawyer, was a manwhore for a while trying to forget the heroine, and had women who wanted to be in relationships with him who he pushed away, he eventually resorted to having ONSs and focused on his career. Meanwhile, it’s implied that the heroine went from being with the hero to being celibate to marrying her horrible evil husband who was killed in book 1, and then having his baby and staying celibate again until the hero. No boyfriends were ever mentioned, no other men outside of the two. She may have gotten married but it just HAD TO BE to the worst man possible, who cheated and used her and tried to kill her. Like what the hell is that double standard? And why is it so fucking common?? I’m so sick of reading books that have the heroine suffering while the hero lives a decent life!
And I’m not even going to get started on the second chance romance aspect of this book, which was just poorly executed and made me hate the hero and see that the heroine was just too easily manipulated by all of the men in her life. She really never managed to change.
So to end my rant, I’ll just say that I’m disappointed that all of my recent reads by Brynne Asher have been unimpressive. I’m actually scared to reread the Killers books just in case I hate them the second time around. I’m going to continue this series because I already own the audiobook, which I’m sure to regret using my audible credit for. Wish me luck!
Safe w exceptions:
Heroine not a virgin, but hero took her virginity when they were together 10 years in the past, there are some flashbacks to the past
Slight age gap
Hero and heroine separated for 10 years partially because of outside forces and partially because he was an idiot
Hero became a manwhore for some time after separation from heroine to try to forget her, didn’t have any super serious relationships during the 10 years apart
It’s implied but not stated that Heroine stayed celibate until she got married and after her husband died (in book 1)
Heroine has baby with dead husband
No OM/OW drama
No scenes with OM/OW
Both with other during separation, but no one else once this book starts
No cheating between MCs.
TW: miscarriage (memories), violence, death, murder, abuse & drugs mentioned, loss of mother
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2025
French & English reviews
ENFIN l'histoire de Trig et Ellie !!
Après avoir lu le premier livre que j'avais adoré (tout comme les autres livres de l'auteur), je n'avais qu'une hâte : lire l'histoire de la sœur de l'héroïne Ellie !!
Ellie c'est une histoire compliquée, elle est veuve ... Parce que son ex-mari un c*nnard abusif a tenté de la tuer avec sa sœur et s'est fait tué par le nouveau copain de sa sœur ... Tout est bien qui finit bien sauf que Ellie se retrouve seule avec son fils et un passif matrimonial très lourd !!
Là-dessus, il faut ajouter Trig, nouvel avocat des Montgomery, avec qui Ellie a apparemment un lourd passé ... Et les révélations dans ce livre sont PFIOULALALA !!!
Ce que j'ai particulièrement aimé :
- le style d'écriture toujours aussi agréable avec des drames, de l'humour mais aussi beaucoup d'émotions <3
- les différentes intrigues qui s'entremêlent (il y a la romance entre Trig et Ellie mais aussi leur passé, l'histoire avec les beaux-parents, l'histoire avec la demi-sœur et l'histoire avec le père x) Bref on ne s'ennuie pas !)
- l'histoire d'amour entre Ellie et Trig ... Délicieusement addictif <3
Bref, j'ai adoré ce livre et j'espère qu'il y aura une suite (j'adorais un livre avec Quinn ><)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FINALLY the story of Trig and Ellie !!
After reading the first book I had loved (just like the other books of the author), I wanted only one thing : read the story of the sister of the heroine Ellie !!
Ellie is a complicated story, she's a widow ... Because her ex-husband an abusive assh*le tried to kill her with her sister and was killed by his sister's new noyfriend ... All is well that ends well except that Ellie finds herself alone with her son and a very heavy marital liability !!
On top of that, we have to add Trig, the new Montgomery lawyer, with whom Ellie apparently has a heavy past ... And the revelations in this book are PFIOULALALA !!!
What I particularly liked :
- the writing style is still pleasant with drama, humor and a lot of emotions <3
- the different plots that intertwine (there is the romance between Trig and Ellie but also their past, the story with the parents-in-law, the story with the half-sister and the story with the father x) To sum up, we're not bored !)
- the love story between Ellie and Trig ... Deliciously addictive <3
In short, I loved this book and I hope there will be a sequel (I loved a book with Quinn ><)
ENFIN l'histoire de Trig et Ellie !!
Après avoir lu le premier livre que j'avais adoré (tout comme les autres livres de l'auteur), je n'avais qu'une hâte : lire l'histoire de la sœur de l'héroïne Ellie !!
Ellie c'est une histoire compliquée, elle est veuve ... Parce que son ex-mari un c*nnard abusif a tenté de la tuer avec sa sœur et s'est fait tué par le nouveau copain de sa sœur ... Tout est bien qui finit bien sauf que Ellie se retrouve seule avec son fils et un passif matrimonial très lourd !!
Là-dessus, il faut ajouter Trig, nouvel avocat des Montgomery, avec qui Ellie a apparemment un lourd passé ... Et les révélations dans ce livre sont PFIOULALALA !!!
Ce que j'ai particulièrement aimé :
- le style d'écriture toujours aussi agréable avec des drames, de l'humour mais aussi beaucoup d'émotions <3
- les différentes intrigues qui s'entremêlent (il y a la romance entre Trig et Ellie mais aussi leur passé, l'histoire avec les beaux-parents, l'histoire avec la demi-sœur et l'histoire avec le père x) Bref on ne s'ennuie pas !)
- l'histoire d'amour entre Ellie et Trig ... Délicieusement addictif <3
Bref, j'ai adoré ce livre et j'espère qu'il y aura une suite (j'adorais un livre avec Quinn ><)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FINALLY the story of Trig and Ellie !!
After reading the first book I had loved (just like the other books of the author), I wanted only one thing : read the story of the sister of the heroine Ellie !!
Ellie is a complicated story, she's a widow ... Because her ex-husband an abusive assh*le tried to kill her with her sister and was killed by his sister's new noyfriend ... All is well that ends well except that Ellie finds herself alone with her son and a very heavy marital liability !!
On top of that, we have to add Trig, the new Montgomery lawyer, with whom Ellie apparently has a heavy past ... And the revelations in this book are PFIOULALALA !!!
What I particularly liked :
- the writing style is still pleasant with drama, humor and a lot of emotions <3
- the different plots that intertwine (there is the romance between Trig and Ellie but also their past, the story with the parents-in-law, the story with the half-sister and the story with the father x) To sum up, we're not bored !)
- the love story between Ellie and Trig ... Deliciously addictive <3
In short, I loved this book and I hope there will be a sequel (I loved a book with Quinn ><)
June 11, 2019
This book chronicles the complicated past and second chance/new beginning of the life and love of Ellie Montgomery and Easton Barnett (aka Trig) by slowly showing us pieces of their damaged hearts in collidescope fashion using unexpected, painful past and present remnants of their ripped apart lovebirds’ lives.
Hurt, anger, resentment, and betrayal give way to truth, understanding, renewed love, and healing. It’s a melting pot of emotions as they struggle with what was, never will be, yet what could be again. Twists, turns, and big secrets get revealed here, folks. All after some knock down, drag out, stubborn battles of wills and long term family feuding drama thrown into the mix.
The out of the blue, big tie-in twist near the end was a bit much for me to digest. It felt like its own heaping serving of unexpected subplot when my plate was already full. It no doubt though will pave the way to more fallout in future sequels. I just found parts of it shocking, sad, and even a bit of an "ew" factor.
Trig is one hot tempered yet cool as a cucumber lawyer who has set his sights on helping Ellie, whether she likes it or not. Their explosive past and sizzling chemistry once again reignites and won’t be denied this time, my fellow romance book loving friends. Their time has finally come. I loved how Trig always wanted to be the better man. He did not let his hard luck life childhood circumstances define him. When he started to take a hands on approach in helping Ellie take care of her son, it was obvious this guy is definitely daddy material.
Ellie has always been the unpredictable wild card in the Montgomery family deck of siblings. Sure, she been sheltered quite a bit, but she’s still feisty, sassy, and has had enough heartbreak to last a lifetime. She also has had quite enough of feeling out of control due to the chaos that seems to shadow her. She’s suffered in silence and sacrificed more than she ever should have. Fiercely protective of those she loves, she’s determined to blaze a new trail for herself and infant son. Lucky for her and us, Trig begins to come along for the ride.
As a lover of relationship angst in second chance romantic tales, I shrugged off Trig’s at first harsh demeanor. I knew I would be rewarded when realization would be unleashed in a big way. I also always like it when emotions boil over and lines are drawn in the sand, because we all know those love lines are meant to be broken.
All in all, I really enjoyed this new addition to the series and look forward to more sequels. I lowered it one star only because I had mixed feelings about the big twist at the end. I went back and forth on how clever it was to incorporate vs parts of it bothered me. Sorry, I can't say more, because I don't want to give away any spoilers.
Just know Brynne Asher has earned a halo all of her own with me, as one of my absolute favorite authors. I can't wait to see what's next in this great romantic series.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Broken Halo, Series: The Montgomery’s (Book 2), Author: Brynne Asher, Pages: 349, stand-alone but part of a series, complicated past, very graphic steamy scenes, relationship angst, some violence.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)
Hurt, anger, resentment, and betrayal give way to truth, understanding, renewed love, and healing. It’s a melting pot of emotions as they struggle with what was, never will be, yet what could be again. Twists, turns, and big secrets get revealed here, folks. All after some knock down, drag out, stubborn battles of wills and long term family feuding drama thrown into the mix.
The out of the blue, big tie-in twist near the end was a bit much for me to digest. It felt like its own heaping serving of unexpected subplot when my plate was already full. It no doubt though will pave the way to more fallout in future sequels. I just found parts of it shocking, sad, and even a bit of an "ew" factor.
Trig is one hot tempered yet cool as a cucumber lawyer who has set his sights on helping Ellie, whether she likes it or not. Their explosive past and sizzling chemistry once again reignites and won’t be denied this time, my fellow romance book loving friends. Their time has finally come. I loved how Trig always wanted to be the better man. He did not let his hard luck life childhood circumstances define him. When he started to take a hands on approach in helping Ellie take care of her son, it was obvious this guy is definitely daddy material.
Ellie has always been the unpredictable wild card in the Montgomery family deck of siblings. Sure, she been sheltered quite a bit, but she’s still feisty, sassy, and has had enough heartbreak to last a lifetime. She also has had quite enough of feeling out of control due to the chaos that seems to shadow her. She’s suffered in silence and sacrificed more than she ever should have. Fiercely protective of those she loves, she’s determined to blaze a new trail for herself and infant son. Lucky for her and us, Trig begins to come along for the ride.
As a lover of relationship angst in second chance romantic tales, I shrugged off Trig’s at first harsh demeanor. I knew I would be rewarded when realization would be unleashed in a big way. I also always like it when emotions boil over and lines are drawn in the sand, because we all know those love lines are meant to be broken.
All in all, I really enjoyed this new addition to the series and look forward to more sequels. I lowered it one star only because I had mixed feelings about the big twist at the end. I went back and forth on how clever it was to incorporate vs parts of it bothered me. Sorry, I can't say more, because I don't want to give away any spoilers.
Just know Brynne Asher has earned a halo all of her own with me, as one of my absolute favorite authors. I can't wait to see what's next in this great romantic series.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Broken Halo, Series: The Montgomery’s (Book 2), Author: Brynne Asher, Pages: 349, stand-alone but part of a series, complicated past, very graphic steamy scenes, relationship angst, some violence.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)
June 4, 2019
“When you lose something precious and find it again, hold on so tight it’ll never fall from your grasp.”
You know you’ve read an amazing book when you go through all these emotions when reading it. It’s Brynne’s best work to date and one of my best read this year.
Everything about this book is amazing. The dialogue, the characters and the storyline with a twist you won’t see coming. I’ve swooned, my heart broke, got mad and laughed out loud while reading this book.
I was rooting so hard for these two and so glad they got their HAE. They so deserved it.
I won’t go into the storyline because you have to go blind and experience it for yourself, but I guarantee that you will love it.
“History. It can tear you up and put you back together in a way you’ll never look the same.”
6 STARS!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You know you’ve read an amazing book when you go through all these emotions when reading it. It’s Brynne’s best work to date and one of my best read this year.
Everything about this book is amazing. The dialogue, the characters and the storyline with a twist you won’t see coming. I’ve swooned, my heart broke, got mad and laughed out loud while reading this book.
I was rooting so hard for these two and so glad they got their HAE. They so deserved it.
I won’t go into the storyline because you have to go blind and experience it for yourself, but I guarantee that you will love it.
“History. It can tear you up and put you back together in a way you’ll never look the same.”
6 STARS!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 21, 2022
great story
Trig and Ellie’s story is not as exciting as Eli and Jen’s but it was definitely a good one. I loved the tough as nails way Trig comes into the legal side of the family business. He won’t stand to be put in his place by anyone. Ellie doesn’t have a chance when he decides she will be his again. They had so much to get through to find their happiness.
Definitely a great new series!!
Trig and Ellie’s story is not as exciting as Eli and Jen’s but it was definitely a good one. I loved the tough as nails way Trig comes into the legal side of the family business. He won’t stand to be put in his place by anyone. Ellie doesn’t have a chance when he decides she will be his again. They had so much to get through to find their happiness.
Definitely a great new series!!
February 8, 2020
Get this one from Brynne Asher on your TBR today!!!
I was lucky enough to beta read and it’s sooo bloody great. Like seriously bloody great!! 😍😍
Great pace
Fantastic dialogue
Believable characters
Serious chemistry
Genuine feelings and just the right amount of pain
Plenty of sweet & funny moments
An epilogue that had me smiling like a loon while quietly sniffling
Gah! I am a very happy reader right now 🖤💛🖤
I was lucky enough to beta read and it’s sooo bloody great. Like seriously bloody great!! 😍😍
Great pace
Fantastic dialogue
Believable characters
Serious chemistry
Genuine feelings and just the right amount of pain
Plenty of sweet & funny moments
An epilogue that had me smiling like a loon while quietly sniffling
Gah! I am a very happy reader right now 🖤💛🖤
January 7, 2023
i expected more. i kept waiting for the shoe to drop and something to keep me on the edge of my seat but i never got it. good book, not my favorite.
July 3, 2019
Angsty, but loved it!
This book had more drama, more so than the first book. This story is about the youngest Montgomery, Ellie and her first love, Trig. They were separated by tragedy ten years ago and now are back in Texas. There are some VERY interesting plot twists
This book had more drama, more so than the first book. This story is about the youngest Montgomery, Ellie and her first love, Trig. They were separated by tragedy ten years ago and now are back in Texas. There are some VERY interesting plot twists
May 23, 2025
5 Second Chance Stars!!
Ten years ago Trig and Ellie’s young love was snatched away and they were both left with hearts that would never heal. Now, Ellie is facing the fight of her life and Trig steps in to help…..despite Ellie’s protests that she needs nor wants anything from him.
Trig was a perfect hero. His love for Ellie was fierce, even when buried beneath the heartache of the past. He was determined to win her again! I loved that despite Ellie pushing him away, he continued to pursue her, to be there for her & baby Griffin, and most of all his determination to keep her safe against a couple threats.
Ellie’s life has been full of heartbreak and loneliness. The only thing right in her life is her son, Griffin. The past has left her broken, and having Trig around again is just too much….especially trying to resist the temptation of Trig. The chemistry between Ellie & Trig sizzled in every exchange they had and only escalated as the story progressed. So good!!!!
There were some twists, turns, and revelations…always something happening to keep you engaged and guessing. As a bonus we get more of Eli & Jen (Bad Situation) and see what’s going on with them along with seeing their relationship with Trig grow.
Lastly we are given an amazingly sweet epilogue that had me smiling from ear to ear. Looking forward to reading Quinn’s book Betrayed Love!!!
*I listened to the audiobook, the narration by Lidia Dornet & Stephen Dexter was great!!
Read Dates:
8/30/2022
5/15/2025
Ten years ago Trig and Ellie’s young love was snatched away and they were both left with hearts that would never heal. Now, Ellie is facing the fight of her life and Trig steps in to help…..despite Ellie’s protests that she needs nor wants anything from him.
Trig was a perfect hero. His love for Ellie was fierce, even when buried beneath the heartache of the past. He was determined to win her again! I loved that despite Ellie pushing him away, he continued to pursue her, to be there for her & baby Griffin, and most of all his determination to keep her safe against a couple threats.
Ellie’s life has been full of heartbreak and loneliness. The only thing right in her life is her son, Griffin. The past has left her broken, and having Trig around again is just too much….especially trying to resist the temptation of Trig. The chemistry between Ellie & Trig sizzled in every exchange they had and only escalated as the story progressed. So good!!!!
There were some twists, turns, and revelations…always something happening to keep you engaged and guessing. As a bonus we get more of Eli & Jen (Bad Situation) and see what’s going on with them along with seeing their relationship with Trig grow.
Lastly we are given an amazingly sweet epilogue that had me smiling from ear to ear. Looking forward to reading Quinn’s book Betrayed Love!!!
*I listened to the audiobook, the narration by Lidia Dornet & Stephen Dexter was great!!
Read Dates:
8/30/2022
5/15/2025
February 1, 2023
4.5 stars!
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/1/2023)! 🎁
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/1/2023)! 🎁
June 5, 2019
It is so hard to find the words that can accurately describe how this book made me feel (I would say that's a great sign!) I felt so much while reading this book. In fact, I started reading it when the hubs put the kids down for bed thinking I would just read a little bit...NOPE! I tried putting the book down 5 times, 5 times y'all and I kept picking it back up because I JUST HAD TO KNOW what was going to happen next! So unpredictable, so much heartache and broken hearts, this book just kept me wanting more! Talk about a book hangover! This book is by far my favorite writing by this author to date and I just know it is going to be an awesome reread for me!
September 19, 2022
OH. MY. GOD.
There are no words to say how good this book is. I mean, by now I’m always sure Ms. Asher will deliver, but you know… there’s always that tiny sliver of apprehension at the back of your mind saying “it’s possible the next one won’t be able to rock your world too”. Well, rest assured because Broken Halo is simply amazing. Now, let me tell you that the second chance romance is not really my favorite trope, I even avoid it most of the time, but Ellie and Trig’s love story will probably be one of my favorite reads of the year.
We met Ellie at first glance during Athica Lane, and then a bit better during Bad Situation, and I won’t lie: she comes off as a bit of a mess. So her life is one really big, complicated, angsty mess and it just keeps getting worse and worse. One of my favorite things about Ellie was how she could let herself be a mess and lose her shit, while at the same time acknowledging it and just keep moving forward. Watching her come back to life was bliss, and I had lots of fun with all the head-butting she did with Trig. The way she loved her baby boy and the lengths she’d go to protect him was also amazing, but it was really once we get to know her full history, the one shared with Trig that I was completely blown away by the way she loved.
Trig was absolutely perfect. He comes off as a douche at first, but again, once we know where he was coming from it’s all forgiven. More so after witnessing the way he pursued Ellie and baby Griff (every time Trig interacted with him was pure ovaries overload). He was hot and sexy as hell, but he was also sweet, loving and when his alpha protective side came out to play… that was just, yowza!
Broken Halo has intrigue, some suspense, action and lots (and I do mean lots of angst). Trig and Ellie’s chemistry and attraction were almost palpable, and when they were together… off the charts hot. I do have to admit that I would have loved to see some people suffer a great deal more but I can’t say that this story didn’t satisfy me in every way. I can’t wait for Ms. Asher’s next book!!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book*
There are no words to say how good this book is. I mean, by now I’m always sure Ms. Asher will deliver, but you know… there’s always that tiny sliver of apprehension at the back of your mind saying “it’s possible the next one won’t be able to rock your world too”. Well, rest assured because Broken Halo is simply amazing. Now, let me tell you that the second chance romance is not really my favorite trope, I even avoid it most of the time, but Ellie and Trig’s love story will probably be one of my favorite reads of the year.
We met Ellie at first glance during Athica Lane, and then a bit better during Bad Situation, and I won’t lie: she comes off as a bit of a mess. So her life is one really big, complicated, angsty mess and it just keeps getting worse and worse. One of my favorite things about Ellie was how she could let herself be a mess and lose her shit, while at the same time acknowledging it and just keep moving forward. Watching her come back to life was bliss, and I had lots of fun with all the head-butting she did with Trig. The way she loved her baby boy and the lengths she’d go to protect him was also amazing, but it was really once we get to know her full history, the one shared with Trig that I was completely blown away by the way she loved.
Trig was absolutely perfect. He comes off as a douche at first, but again, once we know where he was coming from it’s all forgiven. More so after witnessing the way he pursued Ellie and baby Griff (every time Trig interacted with him was pure ovaries overload). He was hot and sexy as hell, but he was also sweet, loving and when his alpha protective side came out to play… that was just, yowza!
Broken Halo has intrigue, some suspense, action and lots (and I do mean lots of angst). Trig and Ellie’s chemistry and attraction were almost palpable, and when they were together… off the charts hot. I do have to admit that I would have loved to see some people suffer a great deal more but I can’t say that this story didn’t satisfy me in every way. I can’t wait for Ms. Asher’s next book!!
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book*
June 11, 2019
Broken Halo absolutely consumed for the last 3 days. I don't have a lot of reading time during waking hours. Work, kids, work, grandkids, etc.. Well so the only choice I had was to skip a little sleep. There's just something about a story or an author when you have to give up something vital just because you can't wait to dive back in.
Easton "Trig" Barret whetted my appetite in Bad Situation. He was a mystery, an enigma and I needed the solution to his puzzle immensely. So to see him fight through the swamp of regrets, lies and betrayal to find his way back to his Ellie well.. Let's say the wait and the anticipation was well worth it.
This book rocked. It had everything I love. Second chance stories are very tricky. Brynne did it right.
Such beauty amongst some brutal truths. Happiness found amongst some pretty deep hurt. But every healing page just felt right.
This couple is definitely a top favorite.
Easton "Trig" Barret whetted my appetite in Bad Situation. He was a mystery, an enigma and I needed the solution to his puzzle immensely. So to see him fight through the swamp of regrets, lies and betrayal to find his way back to his Ellie well.. Let's say the wait and the anticipation was well worth it.
This book rocked. It had everything I love. Second chance stories are very tricky. Brynne did it right.
Such beauty amongst some brutal truths. Happiness found amongst some pretty deep hurt. But every healing page just felt right.
This couple is definitely a top favorite.
October 22, 2021
1 STAR
Two tropes I try my best to stay away from but somehow, I convinced myself to step out of my comfort zone and give it a go. WHAT A BAD IDEA 😓
I’ve reached my word usage of this month so here is it.
MCs are STUPID.
The reason for their separation is STUPID.
Side characters are annoying.
This is a perfect example of second-chance romance done wrong.
Safety :
Safe with exception (separation 10 years both not celibate. No OP after reunion - book happens after 10 years separation.)
Two tropes I try my best to stay away from but somehow, I convinced myself to step out of my comfort zone and give it a go. WHAT A BAD IDEA 😓
I’ve reached my word usage of this month so here is it.
MCs are STUPID.
The reason for their separation is STUPID.
Side characters are annoying.
This is a perfect example of second-chance romance done wrong.
Safety :
Safe with exception (separation 10 years both not celibate. No OP after reunion - book happens after 10 years separation.)
June 13, 2019
Also Posted on For The Love of Fictional Worlds
Disclaimer: An eARC was provided via the Author in exchange for an honest review. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are therefore, my own.
Brynne Asher is slowly but surely becoming a favourite of mine – her writing always has the ability to suck me right into the plot and become oh so invested in the characters that I honestly can’t see or feel anything beyond them.
Broken Halo, is the second standalone romance in The Montgomery’s series; however it would be advised that Bad Situation may be read first, just to have an idea about the events leading to Broken Halo.
Broken Halo is a second chance romance – now this trope has always been a hit or miss for me; mostly because there is almost always a solid reason behind a couple’s break up that is touted as immaturity or even miscommunication.
“We not only lost each other, we lost everything else, too”
Yet when I picked up Broken Halo, I was immediately intrigued and invested in understanding why Ellie and Trig broke up 10 years ago and how exactly will they get back together with all the hate between them.
Now, I have to be honest, the reasons behind their break up, I immediately summarised to be the usual suspects; even through that revelation, I couldn’t help but FEEL what both Ellie and Trig were going through, their mistakes, the consequences of their decisions that they were still suffering from years later.
Yet I couldn’t help but be enchanted by the chemistry between them, the pull that no matter how much they fought against it, somethings are however, meant to be.
Ellie – oh Ellie I absolutely loved how she adored her baby boy, how she gave it her all, now and 10 years ago, how strong she had to be just to survive; no matter how inadequate she felt, the people who loved her, always knew her worth and so did she in the end.
“Hearts can’t break if they haven’t loved.”
Trig, on the other hand, was THE MAN. He survived a horrific situation, lost everything that could ever mean anything to him and yet made something of himself; a man who is proud, and independent of his past, even if that past is now a part of his present.
I loved how Ms. Asher made an entirely unique of a trope that could have easily fallen into the tried and tested yet failed formula and for this exact reason, everyone who ever reads romance should read at least one of her books, because I promise you, you won’t ever stop at one!
“Loving you has proven to be the hardest and easiest thing I’ve ever done, angel.”
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April 20, 2021
"She lets go more every time we're together-learning her own body and what it can do. What I can make it do. How I can make her feel when she gives me everything and I take it like the motherfucking asshole I am."
Trig and Ellie.
"Trig always was when we were together-commanding but not contrilling. Caring but not mushy. Strong but not forceful. Just fucking perfect."
"She's the oxygen I 've needed all this time and I take it from her. Every single breath. When she presses up on her toes, my tongue invades her mouth and her moan cuts through me."
God, he's the ranch hand at the Texas ranch full of money and power and Ellie. She's the youngest of the Montgomery's, a petite little blond dancer and they fall in love when they are teenagers.
Then in Brynne Asher fashion, the shit hits the fan. Tragedy, heartbreak, money and power rip the worlds of Trig and Ellie apart. They both move on in their own way but now they are all grown up and Trig is back in Texas.
"Ghosts, I swear, if I don't watch out, they'll eat me alive."
They are meant to hate each other...not possible.
Their circumstances are dire...always.
There are people who will do anything to keep them apart...seriously.
"When evil comes at you like the devil himself, you stand strong."
This is a page turner, a rush, heartfelt, heartbreaking and awesome.
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June 10, 2019
5 Stars!
As if this series couldn't get any better y'all after Bad Situation, the first in this series, Brynne Asher goes and writes Broken Halo. And seriously y'all! THIS BOOK. THIS FREAKING BOOK. I love Eli and Jen hard but these two.... so different, so special, so deserving of this chance again, and I needed every unputdownable moment they had. And days later, I'm still all in my feelings over this love story, unforgettable journey and I feel a re-read coming on already.... yes this soon. #nojudging
Broken Halo was a brilliant, sexy, swoony, suspenseful, twisted, complicated, beautiful second chance love story that ripped at my heart the entire journey, gave me all of the up/down feels after that intense start/ reunion, kept me off kilter with all of the drama, angst and twists, and left me wanting more of everything after the pages quit turning.
Ellie and Trig intrigued and consumed me before I even got to page one (ugh, how can we forget the moment she found out he was back!).... kept me drawn in until the words stopped from them (that epilogue was absolute life!!) and dang it was worth all of the moments.
Trig.... one of the best heroes I've read in a while y'all. His determination, his strength, his fire, his passion, his intensity, his fight for her and her sweet son... lord have mercy the man burned up my pages, stole every bit of my heart, and had my vote even when I didn't have all the answers from the past or could quite understand him fully.
If you appreciate heavy chemistry, heavy romance, heavy storyline, heavy suspense, heavy everything in the best of ways then any of Brynne Asher's books are always a must read.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
As if this series couldn't get any better y'all after Bad Situation, the first in this series, Brynne Asher goes and writes Broken Halo. And seriously y'all! THIS BOOK. THIS FREAKING BOOK. I love Eli and Jen hard but these two.... so different, so special, so deserving of this chance again, and I needed every unputdownable moment they had. And days later, I'm still all in my feelings over this love story, unforgettable journey and I feel a re-read coming on already.... yes this soon. #nojudging
Broken Halo was a brilliant, sexy, swoony, suspenseful, twisted, complicated, beautiful second chance love story that ripped at my heart the entire journey, gave me all of the up/down feels after that intense start/ reunion, kept me off kilter with all of the drama, angst and twists, and left me wanting more of everything after the pages quit turning.
Ellie and Trig intrigued and consumed me before I even got to page one (ugh, how can we forget the moment she found out he was back!).... kept me drawn in until the words stopped from them (that epilogue was absolute life!!) and dang it was worth all of the moments.
Trig.... one of the best heroes I've read in a while y'all. His determination, his strength, his fire, his passion, his intensity, his fight for her and her sweet son... lord have mercy the man burned up my pages, stole every bit of my heart, and had my vote even when I didn't have all the answers from the past or could quite understand him fully.
If you appreciate heavy chemistry, heavy romance, heavy storyline, heavy suspense, heavy everything in the best of ways then any of Brynne Asher's books are always a must read.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
March 28, 2021
They fell in love young. Circumstances and their families ripped them apart. Now, ten years later Trig is back in Texas, Ellie's life is a mess and she and her son are going to need Trig's help even though she wants nothing to do with him...well maybe not nothing.
Trig is a ranch hand turned lawyer and he is all power and sex appeal. Ellie is a dancer. Tiny, petite, blonde but feisty as all get out.
This story is full of push and pull, angst, suspense, intrigue and second chance at love. It's one of those stories you just can't put down. We get all the back story of Trig and Ellie and what happened to make Trig leave for California back when she was 18. It is tragic and heartfelt and frustrating. Through the whole book they are working their way back to each other but it's not an easy road.
There is so much going on but it is all woven together perfectly leading to a beautiful HEA for Trig and Ellie.
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Trig is a ranch hand turned lawyer and he is all power and sex appeal. Ellie is a dancer. Tiny, petite, blonde but feisty as all get out.
This story is full of push and pull, angst, suspense, intrigue and second chance at love. It's one of those stories you just can't put down. We get all the back story of Trig and Ellie and what happened to make Trig leave for California back when she was 18. It is tragic and heartfelt and frustrating. Through the whole book they are working their way back to each other but it's not an easy road.
There is so much going on but it is all woven together perfectly leading to a beautiful HEA for Trig and Ellie.
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June 16, 2019**beta read**
I have a standing rule about not rating beta reads, but I will say - I love Brynne's writing and her style of stories, so I was very happy to get the opportunity to read this. She managed to surprise me at times, make me laugh at others and even got me a little misty-eyed. *chefs kiss* It's all I ask for in my romance.
I have a standing rule about not rating beta reads, but I will say - I love Brynne's writing and her style of stories, so I was very happy to get the opportunity to read this. She managed to surprise me at times, make me laugh at others and even got me a little misty-eyed. *chefs kiss* It's all I ask for in my romance.
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