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Shattered Lives #1
The Case Manager: Shattered Lives Series
Could you survive when life is set on punishing you for existing? When you're backed up against the wall, do you continue to fight, or do you crumble in defeat? Secrets are revealed, betrayal is exposed, trust is damaged, and bonds are broken. Can Candice succeed when all the odds are stacked against her?
"In my family, misery didn't just love company; it wanted hostages!"
All Candice Brown ever wanted was to belong, but when your mom resents you, that's not a reality. Turmoil seems to follow Candice. She dreams of feeling the one thing she lacks in her life--love--but love only leaves Candice alone as a teenage mother.
Being sent away by her mom seems like the escape she needs, but is it? She is placed with a case manager who appears to be a source of solace and acceptance, but who, in reality, could leave Candice more damaged than she already is.
"In my family, misery didn't just love company; it wanted hostages!"
All Candice Brown ever wanted was to belong, but when your mom resents you, that's not a reality. Turmoil seems to follow Candice. She dreams of feeling the one thing she lacks in her life--love--but love only leaves Candice alone as a teenage mother.
Being sent away by her mom seems like the escape she needs, but is it? She is placed with a case manager who appears to be a source of solace and acceptance, but who, in reality, could leave Candice more damaged than she already is.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2019
30 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 4, 2017
Don't waste your time on this book. The story line sounds interesting; however, the author does not deliver. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter are a bit of an overkill. But what really made me put this book down when I was 39% into it, is the fact that the story starts to get unbelievable. It starts when the main character is 16, she gets shipped to an all girls boarding home for pregnant teens where she and other girls get continuously raped for 5 years....5 years would make her 21!? She gets pregnant by the same men who are raping her , the boarding home owners brothers....has several children by these men and still keeps it a secret from people outside of the boarding house.....at 18 years of age she would have a choice to leave or stay, don't you think? So you stay and keep enduring the torture past 18? I know its a fictional story but it still needs to make sense. Don't insult the readers intelligence. I even had to recheck the genre to make sure I wasn't reading teen fiction because the writing style and story is confusing and far fetched. The story isn't even about a "case worker", its about the boarding home owner, her brothers and how they treat the girls who stay there.
March 19, 2018
The Case Manager
This was my first read by the author and I will say this, she is now on my list. This book was filled with so many emotions and secrets. The young lady in the book goes through things that you can never imagine. There was times when I just had to stop reading and pull myself together to finish the book. I was happy at the ending. Great job LaToya!
This was my first read by the author and I will say this, she is now on my list. This book was filled with so many emotions and secrets. The young lady in the book goes through things that you can never imagine. There was times when I just had to stop reading and pull myself together to finish the book. I was happy at the ending. Great job LaToya!
April 11, 2017
Very emotional
This was a very emotional book. The girls went through a lot in this book. From being disowned, raped, trying to survive these two girl went through it all. The mom needed her tell discipline.. This by far was the best that I have read. Keep up the good work.
This was a very emotional book. The girls went through a lot in this book. From being disowned, raped, trying to survive these two girl went through it all. The mom needed her tell discipline.. This by far was the best that I have read. Keep up the good work.
June 16, 2018
Case work
I was really enjoying the book in the beginning but right when it got to the middle it start to be very repetitive and errors galore. The secrets and events that took place at Hope House were very extreme and trifling but I think the author could’ve painted the picture way better because it was written kind of childish. A lot wasn’t adding up because in one part it said Hope House was for teenage pregnant girls but they were over 18 still living there. I just wished the author would’ve took more time because this book had a lot of potential and it would’ve been a great read.
I was really enjoying the book in the beginning but right when it got to the middle it start to be very repetitive and errors galore. The secrets and events that took place at Hope House were very extreme and trifling but I think the author could’ve painted the picture way better because it was written kind of childish. A lot wasn’t adding up because in one part it said Hope House was for teenage pregnant girls but they were over 18 still living there. I just wished the author would’ve took more time because this book had a lot of potential and it would’ve been a great read.
October 11, 2017
So Awesome
This was my first time reading from this author. The Case Manager was a very good book. I highly recommend it. These ladies went through so much. Proves you can't trust everybody, not even family.
This was my first time reading from this author. The Case Manager was a very good book. I highly recommend it. These ladies went through so much. Proves you can't trust everybody, not even family.
February 12, 2018
Great story
Love it. Very well written. Love the twists and turns. So glad everyone got what they deserved. I was rooting for Candice and Alonzo
Love it. Very well written. Love the twists and turns. So glad everyone got what they deserved. I was rooting for Candice and Alonzo
April 10, 2017
Review
Latoya, I don't know where you got the idea from for this book but thank you. It was a certified banger. It brought to light what happens in group homes. I bet every young person should read this book.
Latoya, I don't know where you got the idea from for this book but thank you. It was a certified banger. It brought to light what happens in group homes. I bet every young person should read this book.
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April 8, 2020Mini review: this book needs a trigger warning
First, let me say that this review is impartial. I could not read the full book, so I could not provide a star rating . I made it to Chapter 12 and I had to stop reading. The reason being is because the content is super heavy. If you are an empath like me I suggest that you read this with a book club or with some book besties because you will need someone to debrief the content with. The stuff that I read still disturbs my spirit but what sad is that it’s true. So many people have experienced sexual abuse. One of the author’s goals was to increase awareness of the issue and this book did just that. The storytelling was on point and the plot flowed well. This book is NOT for the faint at heart! It has all of the makings and the promise to be a great read.
First, let me say that this review is impartial. I could not read the full book, so I could not provide a star rating . I made it to Chapter 12 and I had to stop reading. The reason being is because the content is super heavy. If you are an empath like me I suggest that you read this with a book club or with some book besties because you will need someone to debrief the content with. The stuff that I read still disturbs my spirit but what sad is that it’s true. So many people have experienced sexual abuse. One of the author’s goals was to increase awareness of the issue and this book did just that. The storytelling was on point and the plot flowed well. This book is NOT for the faint at heart! It has all of the makings and the promise to be a great read.
June 16, 2018
Overall, it was okay. Very emotional!! Too repetitive and many errors. The ending felt rushed.
July 16, 2017
Let me begin by saying that this is one book that I wish I could put into the hands of every teen mom, along with her parents. Camilla is one of the worst excuses for a mother that I've seen in a long time. She demeaned and humiliated her daughter for the color of her skin, this giving Candice a complex. With life self-esteem, she falls victim to the first guy to come along, which leads to a teen pregnancy and the beginning of hell…as she knows it.
Nakita and her twin Shakita,'s parents have feel on hard times and make a hard decision that will change the dynamic of the family forever. She is dealt a very bad hand, but the life that comes from it is even worse.
Nancy has opened a home for teenage pregnant girls, asking with the assistance of her brothers Anthony and Paul. She is the perfect example of why there should be background checks as well as routine, unscheduled visits to these homes.
This book caused me to lose plenty of sleep and kept me on the edge of my seat. Because of a few errors, I am giving it 💎💎💎💎,but the plot and character development are a 10. I highly recommend this book and am proud of the amazing job that @_latoyachandler_ did with it.
Nakita and her twin Shakita,'s parents have feel on hard times and make a hard decision that will change the dynamic of the family forever. She is dealt a very bad hand, but the life that comes from it is even worse.
Nancy has opened a home for teenage pregnant girls, asking with the assistance of her brothers Anthony and Paul. She is the perfect example of why there should be background checks as well as routine, unscheduled visits to these homes.
This book caused me to lose plenty of sleep and kept me on the edge of my seat. Because of a few errors, I am giving it 💎💎💎💎,but the plot and character development are a 10. I highly recommend this book and am proud of the amazing job that @_latoyachandler_ did with it.
September 11, 2017
In a daughter's mind ,your first role model is your mom. The love that she gives is a love that can't be replaced. Unfortunately for Candice Life was the total opposite. Every since she was born she had been treated horribly because of the color of her skin. Having a mom with life goals set out for herself she blames Candice for ruining them. With Candice dad always being gone working she is the target for her mom's Wrath. Candice soon finds herself in a very tough position. Instead of her mom helping she ships her off to figure it out on her own. Candice is about to experience a world that not even she can prepare for.
This book was truly an eye-opener. Lies can build your world before you even find out about them. I loved the connection that characters had for each other. GREAT JOB.
This book was truly an eye-opener. Lies can build your world before you even find out about them. I loved the connection that characters had for each other. GREAT JOB.
May 14, 2017
Amazing
The Case Manager by Latoya Chandler is a good read. This is my first time reading from this author. She did a good job. It's well written and page turner.
This book will making you emotional. In the beginning of this book was sad and emotional because each of girls have been through this book. They find happiness and love. They also learned how to trust and forgive from their past in end of this book.
I'm looking forward to reading another book from this author. Even though, I have put this book down but I'm still continue to reading this book.
Good read:
Sandra
The Case Manager by Latoya Chandler is a good read. This is my first time reading from this author. She did a good job. It's well written and page turner.
This book will making you emotional. In the beginning of this book was sad and emotional because each of girls have been through this book. They find happiness and love. They also learned how to trust and forgive from their past in end of this book.
I'm looking forward to reading another book from this author. Even though, I have put this book down but I'm still continue to reading this book.
Good read:
Sandra
June 1, 2017
Wow
I read this book because I'm in the field I initially and it was a bookclub choice. I had no idea it was going to be so good. LaToya Chandler has a knack for storytelling and has really created a spellbinding and heartbreaking account of abuse, neglect, and pure evil. However, she also gave a story of loyalty and redemption. Kudos, for a well written story.
Happy Reading,
The Official Dcbookreviewer
I read this book because I'm in the field I initially and it was a bookclub choice. I had no idea it was going to be so good. LaToya Chandler has a knack for storytelling and has really created a spellbinding and heartbreaking account of abuse, neglect, and pure evil. However, she also gave a story of loyalty and redemption. Kudos, for a well written story.
Happy Reading,
The Official Dcbookreviewer
July 15, 2017
This book will take you though a lot of emotion. While you going reading the book it will teach you a lot about life. Teen mothers what they will go though to protect their children. Parents ... How not to treat your kids love them be there fore them and guide them , they need you . Please read this book it will help you understand a lot that goes on behind those close doors where it may look good on the outside but it's not .
May 19, 2017
Wow very powerful emotional book. Book was on fire from beginning to end. This is one of those book that touch every fiber of your emotions. You laugh, you cry, you get mad,sad,and want to fight right alone with the characters.
Phenomenal job Latoya Chandler.
Phenomenal job Latoya Chandler.
August 16, 2017
Very emotional and intense story of mental and physical abuse and family dysfunction. Captivating story with a good plot twist. First time I have read this author and will definitely read her work again.
November 27, 2019
This was an amazing book. So much drama and sadness. You know Latoya Chandler had to have a difficult time writing this. You will want to cry and rejoice reading this story. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
January 31, 2020
Yes! Yes! Yes! Brilliant work from Latoya Chandler! I cried my eyes out with tears of sadness and joy! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series, The Therapist! Latoya Chandler is definitely one of my go to authors now!!! This is a MUST READ!! I could read it again!
August 10, 2017
3.5 stars
This author has the ability to tell a helluva story. Even though I wasn't feeling the story, she threw some crazy twist in it and still managed to get a reaction out of me.
This author has the ability to tell a helluva story. Even though I wasn't feeling the story, she threw some crazy twist in it and still managed to get a reaction out of me.
September 13, 2017
Wow
I've never read a book like this before, nor one by this author. This book was really good & had so many plot twists. I'm glad I picked this book up.
I've never read a book like this before, nor one by this author. This book was really good & had so many plot twists. I'm glad I picked this book up.
November 4, 2017
4.5 stars
December 8, 2019
Woo sah! There were some tough parts in this book
January 4, 2020
No doubt it is a must read. Will be reading it again in a couple of wks as a refresher preparing for book 2 "The Therapist" to arrive at home.
January 5, 2020
Good story
This book took me on a roller coaster. I loved the twists and turns. I would have liked to learn more about all the young ladies at the "safe house ". Thank you!
This book took me on a roller coaster. I loved the twists and turns. I would have liked to learn more about all the young ladies at the "safe house ". Thank you!
March 17, 2020
The plot was good, but I feel like the story jumped all over the place with no warning. Also, the "twists" seemed a little unpredictable.
November 13, 2020
I really wanted to like this book but I just couldn’t. It was written very childishly. The storyline was not believable. I kept thinking it was going to get better but it just did not.
September 5, 2022
This was a great book. Whether you work in social work/mental health or not. This book shows you a glimpse of that world.
August 14, 2023
I rarely hate books but lord I hated this one. I’m sure there are cases of this happening but enjoying the violence and hatred in this book was absolutely impossible.
June 19, 2021
Way Over the Top
This read like a really twisted soap opera. The storyline was interesting, but far fetched. All of the twists and turns got to be ridiculous. The author weaved quite a story, but her writing skills were disappointing. The dialogue didn’t feel authentic for teenagers and young adults. It felt like the author was trying too hard to flex her vocabulary. The way each character was somehow connected or related to another character was quite a reach. I just really wanted this to be better than it was. TRIGGER WARNING: rape, incest, sex trafficking, pedophilia, racism, and colorism dominate this book.
This read like a really twisted soap opera. The storyline was interesting, but far fetched. All of the twists and turns got to be ridiculous. The author weaved quite a story, but her writing skills were disappointing. The dialogue didn’t feel authentic for teenagers and young adults. It felt like the author was trying too hard to flex her vocabulary. The way each character was somehow connected or related to another character was quite a reach. I just really wanted this to be better than it was. TRIGGER WARNING: rape, incest, sex trafficking, pedophilia, racism, and colorism dominate this book.
February 22, 2021
**It may be a trigger to those who have been abused, so read with caution**
My emotions were all over the place reading this.The case manager told the story of kids who are often forgotten about and fall through the cracks in a broken system. I would recommend this book to anyone who ask a victim of abuse “why didn’t you leave or why didn’t you tell”. It shows the thought process of victims & why they often hide their abuse.
My emotions were all over the place reading this.The case manager told the story of kids who are often forgotten about and fall through the cracks in a broken system. I would recommend this book to anyone who ask a victim of abuse “why didn’t you leave or why didn’t you tell”. It shows the thought process of victims & why they often hide their abuse.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews