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Rock Bottom #1
Broken Silence
Justin Molina has secrets. He’s served his time but remains a prisoner of his past, unable to forgive himself for failing his family when they needed him most. Justin’s grief is overwhelming, but he keeps silent and focuses on his goals. About to graduate college, he tries to keep his head above water—no matter how many times life keeps knocking him down. When he’s forced to register for a poetry-writing class, Justin discovers putting words to his feelings might be exactly what his fractured heart needs to heal. Or is it the older professor with the bow ties and gentle smile who gives him a chance when no one else will?
Professor Foster Faraday Harding is a broken man. His divorce is final, and he’s reverted back to the safety of his books. Even his poetry no longer brings him joy; he’s sleepwalking through life. The raw emotion of Justin’s poetry awakens Foster to desires he thought long buried in the ashes of his marriage. When he discovers Justin is struggling financially, Foster offers him a solution that benefits both of them. Soon it’s Foster who’s struggling with emotions he can’t understand: Justin is his student. And a man. One crazy night years earlier doesn’t mean anything. Foster is straight.
After months of denying the growing attraction between them, an unexpected kiss changes everything. Justin and Foster are no longer only professor and student—they’ve become lovers, but the strain of hiding their relationship increases with each passing day. Words have the power not only to hurt but to heal the greatest pain. If Foster and Justin listen to what their hearts are saying, they might break through their silence and live their own love poems—together.
Professor Foster Faraday Harding is a broken man. His divorce is final, and he’s reverted back to the safety of his books. Even his poetry no longer brings him joy; he’s sleepwalking through life. The raw emotion of Justin’s poetry awakens Foster to desires he thought long buried in the ashes of his marriage. When he discovers Justin is struggling financially, Foster offers him a solution that benefits both of them. Soon it’s Foster who’s struggling with emotions he can’t understand: Justin is his student. And a man. One crazy night years earlier doesn’t mean anything. Foster is straight.
After months of denying the growing attraction between them, an unexpected kiss changes everything. Justin and Foster are no longer only professor and student—they’ve become lovers, but the strain of hiding their relationship increases with each passing day. Words have the power not only to hurt but to heal the greatest pain. If Foster and Justin listen to what their hearts are saying, they might break through their silence and live their own love poems—together.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2019
182 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
89 books1,716 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
June 4, 2019
DNF
There is absolutely nothing working for me here.
I am bored out of my mind.
At 56%, not much is happening still. The plot is weak.
The characters are flat, both of them defeated, almost depressed, living in a miserable state of mind. I wish there was a balance.
There is no chemistry, their interactions seem forced.
I don't like even the poems written by the MCs. 🤷♀️
I don't usually rate books I don't finish, but this is so bad that I am tossing a 1 Stars.
Just shoot me now.
There is absolutely nothing working for me here.
I am bored out of my mind.
At 56%, not much is happening still. The plot is weak.
The characters are flat, both of them defeated, almost depressed, living in a miserable state of mind. I wish there was a balance.
There is no chemistry, their interactions seem forced.
I don't like even the poems written by the MCs. 🤷♀️
I don't usually rate books I don't finish, but this is so bad that I am tossing a 1 Stars.
Just shoot me now.
June 4, 2019
Why 2 stars?
This book was boring and uninspired. The MCs had zero chemistry.
Much was made of Justin's raw poetic talent, but the included poetry was cringey AF. I also never understood Foster's marriage; what in the world did he ever see in that woman?
I started skimming halfway through. The story did pick up in the second half, but it was too little, too late.
I wish I liked Stevens' writing style more because I like the IDEA of her stories; sadly, the execution almost always falls flat for me. The main problem IMO is that the characters and relationships feel one-dimensional.
This book was boring and uninspired. The MCs had zero chemistry.
Much was made of Justin's raw poetic talent, but the included poetry was cringey AF. I also never understood Foster's marriage; what in the world did he ever see in that woman?
I started skimming halfway through. The story did pick up in the second half, but it was too little, too late.
I wish I liked Stevens' writing style more because I like the IDEA of her stories; sadly, the execution almost always falls flat for me. The main problem IMO is that the characters and relationships feel one-dimensional.
May 18, 2019
DNF @50%
The teacher/student story had potential for me but sadly I didn’t work out. From what I read it was just ok. My biggest issue was I felt no connection with the Mc’s. I understand it’s a slow burn and I don’t have a problem with it, I actually love it, but other issues took too much of the focus from building the connection with these characters. So I just rather call it quits and I’ll leave at that.
The teacher/student story had potential for me but sadly I didn’t work out. From what I read it was just ok. My biggest issue was I felt no connection with the Mc’s. I understand it’s a slow burn and I don’t have a problem with it, I actually love it, but other issues took too much of the focus from building the connection with these characters. So I just rather call it quits and I’ll leave at that.
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June 19, 2025
Broken Silence is book one in the Rock Bottom series by Felice Stevens. This is such a beautiful story of finally figuring out who you were meant to be, of finding that person that completes you and helps you to be the best version of yourself. It’s the story of unexpectedly finding a love you never thought was possible.
Justin Molina is twenty five years old. He is just starting his senior year of college as a sociology major. Justin has made mistakes in his past. He has paid his due for what he did but he is still weighed down with the guilt of events he blames himself for concerning his parents. Justin keeps his defenses tightly woven around him, never really letting anyone in except maybe his one close friend, Benny. Because he waited a little too long to schedule his classes for this semester, he ended up having to take Introduction to Poetry Writing to fulfill his requirements for graduation. Never did he expect to walk in to the first class and be mesmerized by the bow tie wearing professor standing up front. Nor did he expect that writing down the words he’s kept locked up inside him would give him such a feeling of relief. To find a way to express the emotions that fill him with darkness constantly.
Professor Foster Harding is forty two years old and teaches several classes at the university, including Poetry. Foster also carries his own darkness. His divorce has just been finalized. He’s heart broken and his self confidence is shattered. He has also closed himself off, staying secluded in his home whenever he’s not at work. He noticed Justin right away sitting in the back of the room and his first instinct was that he was going to be trouble. He was right in a way but it was a different kind of trouble than he could have imagined. As soon as he heard the beautiful words that Justin wrote, he was smitten.
“Words have impact.”
The pull between these two was too much to be ignored. But any kind of relationship between professor and student is strictly forbidden, of course. When Foster learns of the financial difficulties Justin is having, he lends a hand by offering Justin work. Which brings them together even more. As soon as these two give in to their first kiss, there’s no going back. Together they find a peace they never had, a sense of rightness with the other, a kindred spirit. If the university found out, though, not only could Justin lose his scholarship, Foster could lose the job he loves. Is being together worth the risk?
“I was learning a dance I couldn’t hear the music to. Nothing was different, but everything had changed.”
Both of these two had been through so much. It was such a wonderful thing to see the healing they brought to each other. If he had never walked into that class that day, he would never have discovered his love of words, his true ability to express himself in such a beautiful way. And he would have never found Foster. The next book in the series is Imitation of Life, Justin’s friend, Benny’s book, and I can’t wait to read it.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Justin Molina is twenty five years old. He is just starting his senior year of college as a sociology major. Justin has made mistakes in his past. He has paid his due for what he did but he is still weighed down with the guilt of events he blames himself for concerning his parents. Justin keeps his defenses tightly woven around him, never really letting anyone in except maybe his one close friend, Benny. Because he waited a little too long to schedule his classes for this semester, he ended up having to take Introduction to Poetry Writing to fulfill his requirements for graduation. Never did he expect to walk in to the first class and be mesmerized by the bow tie wearing professor standing up front. Nor did he expect that writing down the words he’s kept locked up inside him would give him such a feeling of relief. To find a way to express the emotions that fill him with darkness constantly.
Professor Foster Harding is forty two years old and teaches several classes at the university, including Poetry. Foster also carries his own darkness. His divorce has just been finalized. He’s heart broken and his self confidence is shattered. He has also closed himself off, staying secluded in his home whenever he’s not at work. He noticed Justin right away sitting in the back of the room and his first instinct was that he was going to be trouble. He was right in a way but it was a different kind of trouble than he could have imagined. As soon as he heard the beautiful words that Justin wrote, he was smitten.
“Words have impact.”
The pull between these two was too much to be ignored. But any kind of relationship between professor and student is strictly forbidden, of course. When Foster learns of the financial difficulties Justin is having, he lends a hand by offering Justin work. Which brings them together even more. As soon as these two give in to their first kiss, there’s no going back. Together they find a peace they never had, a sense of rightness with the other, a kindred spirit. If the university found out, though, not only could Justin lose his scholarship, Foster could lose the job he loves. Is being together worth the risk?
“I was learning a dance I couldn’t hear the music to. Nothing was different, but everything had changed.”
Both of these two had been through so much. It was such a wonderful thing to see the healing they brought to each other. If he had never walked into that class that day, he would never have discovered his love of words, his true ability to express himself in such a beautiful way. And he would have never found Foster. The next book in the series is Imitation of Life, Justin’s friend, Benny’s book, and I can’t wait to read it.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
May 12, 2019
Beautiful, powerful, emotionally charged and filled with some wonderful poetry, this is a truly stunning romance from Felice.
Age gap, slow burn, opposites attract, professor/student, different side of the tracks, there are so many ways to describe this narrative but it's ultimately about what's on the surface not mattering at all when you find your perfect partner.
I adored prickly Justin, his past something which sat heavy on his shoulders every day, how he didn't seem able to catch a break, how he opened up through the poetry which was grudgingly pulled out of him by Professor Harding.
And the Prof himself? Foster is a beautiful character, sheltered and alone in his youth because of parents who didn't know how to deal with a child they hadn't expected, to broken by his ex-wife's trampling all over his heart but inspired and rejuvenated by Julian's poetry and his passions.
This is a wonderful story and I adored it.
Now, Ross and Benny maybe please Felice?
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Age gap, slow burn, opposites attract, professor/student, different side of the tracks, there are so many ways to describe this narrative but it's ultimately about what's on the surface not mattering at all when you find your perfect partner.
I adored prickly Justin, his past something which sat heavy on his shoulders every day, how he didn't seem able to catch a break, how he opened up through the poetry which was grudgingly pulled out of him by Professor Harding.
And the Prof himself? Foster is a beautiful character, sheltered and alone in his youth because of parents who didn't know how to deal with a child they hadn't expected, to broken by his ex-wife's trampling all over his heart but inspired and rejuvenated by Julian's poetry and his passions.
This is a wonderful story and I adored it.
Now, Ross and Benny maybe please Felice?
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
dnf
June 3, 2019DNF at 60%
I'm incredibly bored with this one :( There is no chemistry between the MCs, and what little there was died when 42 year old 'Professor' started acting like a simpering debutante when the ton's most infamous black sheep asked her for a dance.
The beginning was exquisite, but you can only drag it so far without the heroes even kissing each other, while convincing your readers that there's passion and lust galore between them at the same time. Guess what: I wasn't convinced. In the beginning, professor Harding is described as a handsome man around forty, wearing bowties and cardigans. I was okay with that, it brought images of Harrison Ford as professor Indiana Jones, and who can deny how sexy he was? The problem was when the plot focused on Justin's daily schedule, on Harding's extreme insecurity and shyness, but got worse when Harding failed to escape the stereotype of a mature professor, focused on his studies, with little to no humor or interests besides his work; He started sounding about sixty at some point, rather than forty. When those two got intimate, I could only read so far, before Harding's insecurities got the best of me, and made me feel as if I was reading an HR with the virginal heroine about to be devoured by the big bad wolf.
There are books by Felice Stevens I adore, like A Walk Through Fire, but I seem to struggle with the ones where we're inside the heroes' head for a long long time, while they go through the same arguments on repeat, with little to no forward movement in the story arc. If slow paced (and I mean really slow paced) stories are your poison, look no further though.
I'm incredibly bored with this one :( There is no chemistry between the MCs, and what little there was died when 42 year old 'Professor' started acting like a simpering debutante when the ton's most infamous black sheep asked her for a dance.
The beginning was exquisite, but you can only drag it so far without the heroes even kissing each other, while convincing your readers that there's passion and lust galore between them at the same time. Guess what: I wasn't convinced. In the beginning, professor Harding is described as a handsome man around forty, wearing bowties and cardigans. I was okay with that, it brought images of Harrison Ford as professor Indiana Jones, and who can deny how sexy he was? The problem was when the plot focused on Justin's daily schedule, on Harding's extreme insecurity and shyness, but got worse when Harding failed to escape the stereotype of a mature professor, focused on his studies, with little to no humor or interests besides his work; He started sounding about sixty at some point, rather than forty. When those two got intimate, I could only read so far, before Harding's insecurities got the best of me, and made me feel as if I was reading an HR with the virginal heroine about to be devoured by the big bad wolf.
There are books by Felice Stevens I adore, like A Walk Through Fire, but I seem to struggle with the ones where we're inside the heroes' head for a long long time, while they go through the same arguments on repeat, with little to no forward movement in the story arc. If slow paced (and I mean really slow paced) stories are your poison, look no further though.
September 18, 2019
Student Justin and his Professor, Foster, bond with poetry...
Simply delightful story of a student and his professor. Justin, 25, tattooed ex-con, is almost finished getting his degree, but he needs this class about poetry. Foster Harding, English Professor, is 40, recently divorced, and doing the best he can. His dear friend, Ross encourages him. Justin looks after his Mom who is recovering from an accident. He works many jobs and hopes for the best, and never stops trying, even when things get worse.
The class Foster teaches certainly brings out the best in Justin. His poems are extremely emotional and meaningful. They go on as student/teacher and begin to be friends after Justin is fired. These men are truly drawn to each other. Foster needs to open up and begin to live again, he now sees that it’s a man he’s wanting, so it’s opened his thoughts. These two men each need some heart healing, and both deserve happiness, but it’s hard fought. Each knows it isn’t allowed.
Justin’s story is sad, and Foster’s is revealing. Both have issues, and each man needs what the other can give.
Their sexy times are sizzling and new for Foster. I like the timing, tension, and stolen moments. This tale didn’t have the usual teacher/student trope that I expected.
This author is simply marvelous with her characters, situations and M/M romance. Loved the epilogue, that showed us “ life is a work in progress.” We are all doing the best we can. I loved all of the amazing poetry within this story, especially the one about broken silence.
Enjoy !
=========
Simply delightful story of a student and his professor. Justin, 25, tattooed ex-con, is almost finished getting his degree, but he needs this class about poetry. Foster Harding, English Professor, is 40, recently divorced, and doing the best he can. His dear friend, Ross encourages him. Justin looks after his Mom who is recovering from an accident. He works many jobs and hopes for the best, and never stops trying, even when things get worse.
The class Foster teaches certainly brings out the best in Justin. His poems are extremely emotional and meaningful. They go on as student/teacher and begin to be friends after Justin is fired. These men are truly drawn to each other. Foster needs to open up and begin to live again, he now sees that it’s a man he’s wanting, so it’s opened his thoughts. These two men each need some heart healing, and both deserve happiness, but it’s hard fought. Each knows it isn’t allowed.
Justin’s story is sad, and Foster’s is revealing. Both have issues, and each man needs what the other can give.
Their sexy times are sizzling and new for Foster. I like the timing, tension, and stolen moments. This tale didn’t have the usual teacher/student trope that I expected.
This author is simply marvelous with her characters, situations and M/M romance. Loved the epilogue, that showed us “ life is a work in progress.” We are all doing the best we can. I loved all of the amazing poetry within this story, especially the one about broken silence.
Enjoy !
=========
May 13, 2019
Fans of opposites attract and an age-gap, you are not going to want to miss Broken Silence! I quickly fell in love with Justin, the ex-con doing everything he can to overcome some bad choices in his past, even taking a college poetry class to help get his degree. Foster is the buttoned-up, bow tie wearing professor, still reeling from a divorce from someone who wasn’t very good for or to him at all.
Did I mention how much I loved Justin! Under his rough exterior, he was a poet and didn’t even know it. What starts off as a joke becomes a cathartic way of dealing with his emotions. It doesn’t hurt that the professor is sexy and appears to really be taken in by Justin’s poems. Foster is attracted, but dating a student is a big no-no. Even if Foster wants their relationship to grow, Justin wouldn’t want to do anything to threaten Foster’s livelihood. On top of that, both men have self-esteem issues that have them both thinking the other could do better, but if a fling is all it can be then they both might break their own rules.
This one just grabbed me from the start. Justin is such a sweetheart. I definitely shed a few tears for him. He paid the price for bad decisions made out of desperation, but all he wants to do now is make up for it. He carries a lot of guilt, but has a great support system in his amazing mother. Foster also wants to help Justin see just what he is capable of even while he needs his best friend to help him see his own worth. There’s a seriousness to the story without it becoming overly angsty. There are also plenty of swoon-worthy moments. Their honesty and openness with each other had me caring and rooting deeply for these two to get their happy ending. I can tell this will be a comfort re-read in the future!
Did I mention how much I loved Justin! Under his rough exterior, he was a poet and didn’t even know it. What starts off as a joke becomes a cathartic way of dealing with his emotions. It doesn’t hurt that the professor is sexy and appears to really be taken in by Justin’s poems. Foster is attracted, but dating a student is a big no-no. Even if Foster wants their relationship to grow, Justin wouldn’t want to do anything to threaten Foster’s livelihood. On top of that, both men have self-esteem issues that have them both thinking the other could do better, but if a fling is all it can be then they both might break their own rules.
This one just grabbed me from the start. Justin is such a sweetheart. I definitely shed a few tears for him. He paid the price for bad decisions made out of desperation, but all he wants to do now is make up for it. He carries a lot of guilt, but has a great support system in his amazing mother. Foster also wants to help Justin see just what he is capable of even while he needs his best friend to help him see his own worth. There’s a seriousness to the story without it becoming overly angsty. There are also plenty of swoon-worthy moments. Their honesty and openness with each other had me caring and rooting deeply for these two to get their happy ending. I can tell this will be a comfort re-read in the future!
May 6, 2019
Felice make it a habit breaking my heart with her stories. My first thought that this is a Professor - student story, should be sexy and steamy. But there are so much about Justin and Foster that I can relate to a real life.
It's hard not to give a spoiler about the story. Broken Silence mostly telling about Justin, the ex-con student who fell hard for his proper Professor in poetry class. Seventeen years senior his age.
Foster wasn't immune for Justin's sexy charm, but he was just got a bad divorced and not ready to start a relationship.
But when you feel it, you feel it, right?
Broken Silence is a sexy professor - student with loads of heart wrenching feeling about the two of them, and the struggle to move on from whatever baggage they carried in the past.
I really enjoyed their interaction, the dance they danced around each other, the pull and push, the denial, the tug of war about right or wrong. Until finally, they cannot lied to their heart anymore, and let everything put in place naturally.
I enjoyed Ross, Benny, Justin's parents, Foster's friends and the potential stories that I knew Felice won't let pass.
Cannot wait Benny and Gino's story, and Ross and his sudden attraction to nature (?) story in the near future!
Recommended!
May 14, 2019
There is much to love in this gorgeous story of two lost men, finding one another in the midst of individual sorrow. Justin and Foster should not work based on all of their own doubts but here Felice has woven a story of love, redemption, self discovery and forgiveness. You'll be hard-pressed to find two characters who needed each other more - the young ex-con, trying desperately to find his way on a world where he still hasn't forgiven himself for his past wrong-doings, and the older professor, abandoned by his younger, perfect wife, spiralling into a pit of despair and loneliness.
I really love the way Felice weaves her stories, there's such an infusion of love that comes from her secondary characters and this subtle, beautiful humour that keeps your heart happy as you read. Her MCs are never perfect, but their flaws and insecurities are not glossed over and are sometimes even celebrated as being especially human. I love how her MCs address their differences by acknowledging their own and that honesty is at the heart of their relationships.
Broken Silence is a lovely romance between two men who needed to find one another and I really, really hope this is a kick-starter for a new series (I really need Ross and Bennys' stories).
4.5/5 stars rounded up to 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really love the way Felice weaves her stories, there's such an infusion of love that comes from her secondary characters and this subtle, beautiful humour that keeps your heart happy as you read. Her MCs are never perfect, but their flaws and insecurities are not glossed over and are sometimes even celebrated as being especially human. I love how her MCs address their differences by acknowledging their own and that honesty is at the heart of their relationships.
Broken Silence is a lovely romance between two men who needed to find one another and I really, really hope this is a kick-starter for a new series (I really need Ross and Bennys' stories).
4.5/5 stars rounded up to 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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May 14, 2019Broken Silence is now live!
Universal Link: getbook.at/BrokenSilence
Amazon US http://bit.ly/JustinandFoster
Amazon UK: http://bit.ly/Broken_Silence
Universal Link: getbook.at/BrokenSilence
Amazon US http://bit.ly/JustinandFoster
Amazon UK: http://bit.ly/Broken_Silence
May 18, 2019
So, there are a few things that I look for when I’m reading. I want to be able to connect with the characters in some way, to feel what they feel and think what they think. I want to be able to completely immerse myself in their story. It doesn’t matter what genre I’m reading. If I can’t, or if something happens that pulls me out of the story, the book becomes a DNF for me.
I have never had a DNF from Felice Stevens.
Justin has entirely too much responsibility and guilt for a guy his age. He’s holding down a number of jobs to support both himself and his ailing mother, while trying to shake the stigma of being an ex-con, trying desperately to get his college education. He’s forced to take an Introduction to Poetry Writing class where his professor is Foster Harding.
Foster has his own issues to deal with including a manipulative (soon-to-be) ex wife who used him for status and money. His deceased parents weren’t really ready for the responsibility of having a child (as if anyone really is). Now here he is, in his early forties, plain lonely. The bright spot in his life is his best friend Ross who is dealing with a devastating loss of his own. I absolutely love older characters. Older gay men have seen some s#!t and have the scars to prove it. Foster is no different.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts, but neither of them feel as if they can take the next step due to their own individual responsibilities. Justin for his for his mother, jobs, and education. And Foster simply for his job. Of course, this creates the question of “will they or won’t they” (as if there’s any doubt. This is a Felice Stevens book, after all). But sometimes the journey we take is filled with rewards we never thought we deserved.
Even the supporting characters get their moments to shine, making you eagerly hope for a continuation of their stories. (I’m looking at you, Benny and Ross)
The added bonus is the poetry scattered throughout the book. It’s deep and emotional, and give you perfect insight into Justin whose kind of rough exterior hides a man who has only ever wanted to do the right thing by his family, despite the poor decisions he’s made to do it.
All in all, this is another fine addition to Felice’s catalog, and I’m hoping for updates on a couple of the minor characters.
I have never had a DNF from Felice Stevens.
Justin has entirely too much responsibility and guilt for a guy his age. He’s holding down a number of jobs to support both himself and his ailing mother, while trying to shake the stigma of being an ex-con, trying desperately to get his college education. He’s forced to take an Introduction to Poetry Writing class where his professor is Foster Harding.
Foster has his own issues to deal with including a manipulative (soon-to-be) ex wife who used him for status and money. His deceased parents weren’t really ready for the responsibility of having a child (as if anyone really is). Now here he is, in his early forties, plain lonely. The bright spot in his life is his best friend Ross who is dealing with a devastating loss of his own. I absolutely love older characters. Older gay men have seen some s#!t and have the scars to prove it. Foster is no different.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts, but neither of them feel as if they can take the next step due to their own individual responsibilities. Justin for his for his mother, jobs, and education. And Foster simply for his job. Of course, this creates the question of “will they or won’t they” (as if there’s any doubt. This is a Felice Stevens book, after all). But sometimes the journey we take is filled with rewards we never thought we deserved.
Even the supporting characters get their moments to shine, making you eagerly hope for a continuation of their stories. (I’m looking at you, Benny and Ross)
The added bonus is the poetry scattered throughout the book. It’s deep and emotional, and give you perfect insight into Justin whose kind of rough exterior hides a man who has only ever wanted to do the right thing by his family, despite the poor decisions he’s made to do it.
All in all, this is another fine addition to Felice’s catalog, and I’m hoping for updates on a couple of the minor characters.
November 8, 2023
The first 50 or so percent of the book I would give 3 stars, but after that I would give 1, so overall I am rating this 1.5 stars.
May 29, 2019
I’m a big Felice Stevens fan, will happily jump into each new release the author puts out into the world, meaning I devoured Broken Silence.
In truth, I was a wee bit tentative about this one at first. The first couple of chapters were interesting, yes, but it did not grip me in the way I had expected. However, this did not last long. It did not take much before I was completely sucked into the story. I was addicted, I powered through it, and there were plenty of points where I thought this one would be my favourite Felice Stevens read.
Although it’s a close second, Broken Silence does come second place to The Shape of You. Nevertheless, it’s a strong four-star rating and I was hooked. I’d certainly recommend it to fans of the author, fans of the genre, or anyone interested in either. It’s a great story with much more to it than you’d expect, and you’ll be hooked throughout.
It’s a story with plenty of well-loved tropes, with a unique Felice Stevens approach. It’s takes a story that deals with plenty of topics and makes it into a sweet story. You’ll fall in love with the characters and their story, you’ll fall in love with their love, and there is so much to enjoy with this one.
My biggest wish for this one is that we get spin-off stories for some of the characters. There were a few characters whose stories were introduced to us, but were never brought to a close, and I’d love to see them play out in their own books.
Overall, this was another winner from Felice Stevens.
In truth, I was a wee bit tentative about this one at first. The first couple of chapters were interesting, yes, but it did not grip me in the way I had expected. However, this did not last long. It did not take much before I was completely sucked into the story. I was addicted, I powered through it, and there were plenty of points where I thought this one would be my favourite Felice Stevens read.
Although it’s a close second, Broken Silence does come second place to The Shape of You. Nevertheless, it’s a strong four-star rating and I was hooked. I’d certainly recommend it to fans of the author, fans of the genre, or anyone interested in either. It’s a great story with much more to it than you’d expect, and you’ll be hooked throughout.
It’s a story with plenty of well-loved tropes, with a unique Felice Stevens approach. It’s takes a story that deals with plenty of topics and makes it into a sweet story. You’ll fall in love with the characters and their story, you’ll fall in love with their love, and there is so much to enjoy with this one.
My biggest wish for this one is that we get spin-off stories for some of the characters. There were a few characters whose stories were introduced to us, but were never brought to a close, and I’d love to see them play out in their own books.
Overall, this was another winner from Felice Stevens.
October 7, 2023
3 stars on the re-read.
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Stumbled on this book and I'm so glad I did. I LOVED Foster and Justin. Professor and college student, 17yr age difference, and so perfect for each other. Loved the pacing...I was getting a bit anxious for the physical stuff, but the anticipation was so delicious I didn't mind too much. I'm not a fan of poetry in books, but I did actually read the first few because they were short. Once they got longer, I started skimming but I did like what I read. I loved that Foster and Justin's relationship was scorchingly hot, softly sensual and caring, all at the same time. The things they said to each other made my stomach flutter. The raw desire for each other was a thing of beauty. I loved that they both had insecurities but that they didn't get repetitive and overshadow the book, for the most part. I do feel that after they officially announced their relationship to Carolyn, things got a bit flowery and overly verbose so they lost half a star there, but the graduation ceremony brought it back. Loved the supporting characters. Earline and Justin's mom were a joy. Christmas at Earline's house made me teary eyed. Very very happy with this one. Definitely a book I would read again, and I cannot wait to read Benny's book, and Ross's too!
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Stumbled on this book and I'm so glad I did. I LOVED Foster and Justin. Professor and college student, 17yr age difference, and so perfect for each other. Loved the pacing...I was getting a bit anxious for the physical stuff, but the anticipation was so delicious I didn't mind too much. I'm not a fan of poetry in books, but I did actually read the first few because they were short. Once they got longer, I started skimming but I did like what I read. I loved that Foster and Justin's relationship was scorchingly hot, softly sensual and caring, all at the same time. The things they said to each other made my stomach flutter. The raw desire for each other was a thing of beauty. I loved that they both had insecurities but that they didn't get repetitive and overshadow the book, for the most part. I do feel that after they officially announced their relationship to Carolyn, things got a bit flowery and overly verbose so they lost half a star there, but the graduation ceremony brought it back. Loved the supporting characters. Earline and Justin's mom were a joy. Christmas at Earline's house made me teary eyed. Very very happy with this one. Definitely a book I would read again, and I cannot wait to read Benny's book, and Ross's too!
May 16, 2019
Broken Silence is such a gorgeous, May/December, opposites attract, slow burn, GFY-BI, hurt/comfort story that stole my heart, and there was no way I was putting it down until I was finished. Justin, a student and Foster, a poetry professor come from completely different worlds and both are weighed down by heavy baggage yet are unexpectedly drawn to each other. The writing is beautiful, and I loved the dialogue. I am not a poet by any stretch of the imagination but let me tell you, the poems just hit all my feels buttons and had me pushing on my heart. The secondary characters are so wonderful and Ross is definitely a male version of Felice with his sharp mind and dry wit. LOL I NEED his story!!
August 20, 2025
B / 4 stars
This month’s TBR Challenge prompt - “Do the Hustle” - had me a bit stumped because I didn’t think I had a book on my TBR that would fit. Then I started reading Felice Stevens’ Broken Silence and realised I did have one, because one of the leads is working several jobs in order to make ends meet. (Which I’m interpreting as ‘hustling’.) It’s an emotional, slow-burn, age-gap romance featuring two men from very different backgrounds who are both struggling to find their way after events that turned their lives upside down.
Justin Molina is focused on graduating from college while also working two or three jobs so he can keep his head above water and pay for the care his disabled mother needs. Recently released from prison for theft (he was stealing in order to fund the purchase of marijuana to ease his terminally ill father’s pain) Justin is trying hard to get his life back on track, but still feels massively guilty that he missed his father’s funeral while he was inside and for not being there for his mother, who was injured in an accident which has left her unable to walk. Justin is a good person who did a dumb thing for the best of reasons, but he’s paid his debt to society and wants to move on – although having a record means that’s not easy.
Signing up for his college classes late means he’s stuck with taking subjects he’s not interested in, like the Introduction to Poetry class he’s attending when the book opens. Justin has no time or need for (or interest in) poetry – although he figures it might be worth sticking around for the eye candy – the unexpectedly hot professor – delivering the lectures. He needs to pass the class, so he’ll do the stupid poetry-writing homework – even if it’s writing a poem about how stupid it is to write poetry.
Foster Harding is in his early forties and is struggling to come to terms with his divorce from the younger woman he’d been married to for three years. He’s never been a social animal and has struggled to build friendships, so when he met a vivacious young actress who seemed to be as interested in him as he was in her, he fell head-over-heels and, in that heady first taste of passion and euphoria that such a gorgeous woman could possibly want him, ignored the advice of his closest friends and married her. Looking back, he can see that the rot set in early when she wanted to change him, and then to ‘spice up’ their sex life by inviting another man into their bed. In the end, that night didn’t change anything about their doomed marriage, but it did have unexpected consequences for Foster, who, despite always having thought of himself as straight, admits that he had the hottest sexual experiences of his life that night – with the other guy. It’s not something he allows himself to think about very often – if at all – but when, on a rare (slightly drunken) night out with his best friend, Ross, Foster recognises the good-looking, older student from his poetry class kissing a guy on the dance floor, he can’t stop the memories of the intense desire he’d experienced that night from flooding back.
As the weeks pass, Foster finds himself becoming increasingly intrigued by Justin and captivated by by the raw emotional power of the poetry he’s submitting in class. For Justin, writing has become an outlet for his frustrations and the emotions he’s bottled up for so long; he doesn’t believe Foster when he says he’s a poet, but he can’t deny that putting his feelings into words and onto paper is cathartic.
They also find themselves often bumping into each other, both on and off-campus, mainly because Justin’s many part-time jobs happen to be at places Foster frequents – the library, a favourite restaurant. When Justin is fired from his job waiting tables because he spent a few short minutes chatting with Foster and Ross one evening, Foster offers him a job as editorial assistant/proofreader/bibliographer for a number of the projects he’s working on outside his teaching job. They both know that working together in close proximity – at Foster’s home – might not be the best idea given how strongly attracted they are to one another, but Justin needs the money and and wants to do the work.
The slow-burn romance between Foster and Justin is superbly done; they have strong chemistry but are wary of taking that next step for various very understandable reasons. Almost all Justin’s time is taken up by college and homework, his jobs, and spending time with his mother, plus he thinks a guy as handsome, intelligent and well-off as Foster can do so much better than an ex-con with money worries and more emotional baggage than he knows what to do with. But Foster struggles with self-esteem issues, too; his self-confidence, never strong, was shattered by the divorce and he worries that he won’t be enough for someone as vibrant and full of life as Justin. And then, of course, there’s the whole teacher/student issue, wherein entering into a relationship could cost Justin his scholarship and Foster his job and reputation. (I was pleased that this isn’t just handwaved away and that both men are aware of the fine line they’re treading; the solution the author comes up with isn’t ideal, but then I suppose there is no ideal solution to this kind of situation.) But the heart wants what the heart wants, and after months of longing and denial it becomes impossible to ignore the powerful attraction that’s grown between them.
I liked the characters – prickly Justin who is carrying so much guilt and who just doesn’t seem able to catch a break; and lonely Foster, who is struggling to pick up the pieces after his divorce – and enjoyed watching them both learning and growing, as Justin slowly blossoms under Foster’s encouragement and comes to accept that he can come back from his mistakes and make something of his life, and Foster, inspired and rejuvinated by Julian’s passion and poetry, embraces his newly discovered sexuality and learns to let someone in. The small secondary cast is well-drawn; Ross is dealing with tragic loss but makes sure to be there for his friend, and I loved that Justin’s family immediately treat Foster as one of their own.
I enjoyed the book, although I found the first part to be more engaging than the second, mostly because the slow-burn is so well done, and the pacing becomes a bit uneven later on once Julian and Foster start having sex. Still, Broken Silence is a heartwarming story of self-discovery, forgiveness and acceptance and a tender, sensual romance between two damaged people who find each other against the odds and learn how to live, love and be loved in return.
This month’s TBR Challenge prompt - “Do the Hustle” - had me a bit stumped because I didn’t think I had a book on my TBR that would fit. Then I started reading Felice Stevens’ Broken Silence and realised I did have one, because one of the leads is working several jobs in order to make ends meet. (Which I’m interpreting as ‘hustling’.) It’s an emotional, slow-burn, age-gap romance featuring two men from very different backgrounds who are both struggling to find their way after events that turned their lives upside down.
Justin Molina is focused on graduating from college while also working two or three jobs so he can keep his head above water and pay for the care his disabled mother needs. Recently released from prison for theft (he was stealing in order to fund the purchase of marijuana to ease his terminally ill father’s pain) Justin is trying hard to get his life back on track, but still feels massively guilty that he missed his father’s funeral while he was inside and for not being there for his mother, who was injured in an accident which has left her unable to walk. Justin is a good person who did a dumb thing for the best of reasons, but he’s paid his debt to society and wants to move on – although having a record means that’s not easy.
Signing up for his college classes late means he’s stuck with taking subjects he’s not interested in, like the Introduction to Poetry class he’s attending when the book opens. Justin has no time or need for (or interest in) poetry – although he figures it might be worth sticking around for the eye candy – the unexpectedly hot professor – delivering the lectures. He needs to pass the class, so he’ll do the stupid poetry-writing homework – even if it’s writing a poem about how stupid it is to write poetry.
Foster Harding is in his early forties and is struggling to come to terms with his divorce from the younger woman he’d been married to for three years. He’s never been a social animal and has struggled to build friendships, so when he met a vivacious young actress who seemed to be as interested in him as he was in her, he fell head-over-heels and, in that heady first taste of passion and euphoria that such a gorgeous woman could possibly want him, ignored the advice of his closest friends and married her. Looking back, he can see that the rot set in early when she wanted to change him, and then to ‘spice up’ their sex life by inviting another man into their bed. In the end, that night didn’t change anything about their doomed marriage, but it did have unexpected consequences for Foster, who, despite always having thought of himself as straight, admits that he had the hottest sexual experiences of his life that night – with the other guy. It’s not something he allows himself to think about very often – if at all – but when, on a rare (slightly drunken) night out with his best friend, Ross, Foster recognises the good-looking, older student from his poetry class kissing a guy on the dance floor, he can’t stop the memories of the intense desire he’d experienced that night from flooding back.
As the weeks pass, Foster finds himself becoming increasingly intrigued by Justin and captivated by by the raw emotional power of the poetry he’s submitting in class. For Justin, writing has become an outlet for his frustrations and the emotions he’s bottled up for so long; he doesn’t believe Foster when he says he’s a poet, but he can’t deny that putting his feelings into words and onto paper is cathartic.
They also find themselves often bumping into each other, both on and off-campus, mainly because Justin’s many part-time jobs happen to be at places Foster frequents – the library, a favourite restaurant. When Justin is fired from his job waiting tables because he spent a few short minutes chatting with Foster and Ross one evening, Foster offers him a job as editorial assistant/proofreader/bibliographer for a number of the projects he’s working on outside his teaching job. They both know that working together in close proximity – at Foster’s home – might not be the best idea given how strongly attracted they are to one another, but Justin needs the money and and wants to do the work.
The slow-burn romance between Foster and Justin is superbly done; they have strong chemistry but are wary of taking that next step for various very understandable reasons. Almost all Justin’s time is taken up by college and homework, his jobs, and spending time with his mother, plus he thinks a guy as handsome, intelligent and well-off as Foster can do so much better than an ex-con with money worries and more emotional baggage than he knows what to do with. But Foster struggles with self-esteem issues, too; his self-confidence, never strong, was shattered by the divorce and he worries that he won’t be enough for someone as vibrant and full of life as Justin. And then, of course, there’s the whole teacher/student issue, wherein entering into a relationship could cost Justin his scholarship and Foster his job and reputation. (I was pleased that this isn’t just handwaved away and that both men are aware of the fine line they’re treading; the solution the author comes up with isn’t ideal, but then I suppose there is no ideal solution to this kind of situation.) But the heart wants what the heart wants, and after months of longing and denial it becomes impossible to ignore the powerful attraction that’s grown between them.
I liked the characters – prickly Justin who is carrying so much guilt and who just doesn’t seem able to catch a break; and lonely Foster, who is struggling to pick up the pieces after his divorce – and enjoyed watching them both learning and growing, as Justin slowly blossoms under Foster’s encouragement and comes to accept that he can come back from his mistakes and make something of his life, and Foster, inspired and rejuvinated by Julian’s passion and poetry, embraces his newly discovered sexuality and learns to let someone in. The small secondary cast is well-drawn; Ross is dealing with tragic loss but makes sure to be there for his friend, and I loved that Justin’s family immediately treat Foster as one of their own.
I enjoyed the book, although I found the first part to be more engaging than the second, mostly because the slow-burn is so well done, and the pacing becomes a bit uneven later on once Julian and Foster start having sex. Still, Broken Silence is a heartwarming story of self-discovery, forgiveness and acceptance and a tender, sensual romance between two damaged people who find each other against the odds and learn how to live, love and be loved in return.
May 16, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Felice Stevens has released an incredibly tender and moving romance novel entitled Broken Silence. Complete with several passages of original poetry that are both heart-wrenching in their painful honesty and, later, so very sweet in their expression, the story is told from a dual point of view with Foster and Justin alternating when narrating the chapters in the story. As such, you really get a clear understanding of every foible and misguided belief these two men have about themselves and their self-worth. These feelings set the stage for a romance that is fraught with misunderstanding and doubt.
Justin and Foster both come from a place of self-loathing. Despite having served his time, Justin continues to beat himself up over getting caught trying to steal merchandise he needed to sell in order to score pot for his ailing father to use for pain management. While in prison his father dies and his mother is a victim of a freak accident leaving her unable to walk. The around the clock nursing care, medications and physical therapy all cost a lot of money—something Justin is determined to provide. Despite his mother assuring him that he has nothing to blame himself for, Justin is wracked with a guilt that causes him to doubt everything he does and makes him his own worst enemy.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Felice Stevens has released an incredibly tender and moving romance novel entitled Broken Silence. Complete with several passages of original poetry that are both heart-wrenching in their painful honesty and, later, so very sweet in their expression, the story is told from a dual point of view with Foster and Justin alternating when narrating the chapters in the story. As such, you really get a clear understanding of every foible and misguided belief these two men have about themselves and their self-worth. These feelings set the stage for a romance that is fraught with misunderstanding and doubt.
Justin and Foster both come from a place of self-loathing. Despite having served his time, Justin continues to beat himself up over getting caught trying to steal merchandise he needed to sell in order to score pot for his ailing father to use for pain management. While in prison his father dies and his mother is a victim of a freak accident leaving her unable to walk. The around the clock nursing care, medications and physical therapy all cost a lot of money—something Justin is determined to provide. Despite his mother assuring him that he has nothing to blame himself for, Justin is wracked with a guilt that causes him to doubt everything he does and makes him his own worst enemy.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
May 18, 2019
Felice is one of my all time favorite authors and this book of course did not disappoint. I loved it. I loved the emotion of the words from the characters and the written words of Justin. I felt all of the emotions throughout this story
Justin is in college struggling to get by. Just living but not happily. His past is holding him hostage. He has a loving family if only he knew how to let go of the past and take all of their love and support.
Foster is a professor just going through life and not living his life until one day Justin’s poem strikes a cord within him and he sees something inside Justin that even Justin doesn’t see.
They are living in silence
Although their love affair is forbidden due to student teacher relationship there was no coming between the guys. It was great to see them develop the trust between each other and open their hearts to the future.
I loved Justin’s family and how they treated Foster as one of their own. I can’t wait to see what Benny and Ross go through to find their Hea because they very much deserve it.
The poems within this book made me so emotional and they are perfect for each other. Go on Justin and Fosters journey of finding love and their voices.
Justin is in college struggling to get by. Just living but not happily. His past is holding him hostage. He has a loving family if only he knew how to let go of the past and take all of their love and support.
Foster is a professor just going through life and not living his life until one day Justin’s poem strikes a cord within him and he sees something inside Justin that even Justin doesn’t see.
They are living in silence
Although their love affair is forbidden due to student teacher relationship there was no coming between the guys. It was great to see them develop the trust between each other and open their hearts to the future.
I loved Justin’s family and how they treated Foster as one of their own. I can’t wait to see what Benny and Ross go through to find their Hea because they very much deserve it.
The poems within this book made me so emotional and they are perfect for each other. Go on Justin and Fosters journey of finding love and their voices.
May 20, 2019
Felice Stevens is an absolute favorite author of mine for a few reasons. Every time, I pick up one of her books I am in awe of her talent. All of her books and characters end up taking residence in my heart.....
I loved the student/teacher romance in Broken Silence!! A bit taboo, a lot of sexy and oh sooo sweet. I adored Justin and Foster's journey. Two lost souls who find themselves in each other. God they were beautiful inside and out.
The poetry throughout wove this story together effortlessly.
I loved the student/teacher romance in Broken Silence!! A bit taboo, a lot of sexy and oh sooo sweet. I adored Justin and Foster's journey. Two lost souls who find themselves in each other. God they were beautiful inside and out.
The poetry throughout wove this story together effortlessly.
June 14, 2019
3.5⭐'s A very sweet read! 🤩
May 28, 2019
I enjoyed Foster’s story more than Justin’s. This is two men on separate journeys that lead them to one another and this is what helps them find their way and heal. For Foster he becomes alive again. He learns to live and be full of life. He learns to love poetry and being again. Justin shows him that life is meant to live and embrace not become a museum. Not to have yourself locked in a tower. For Justin he learns to express himself and let someone in. He learns that not everything is always as it seems and to look beyond what is in front of you.
They meet via class. A class Justin doesn’t want to take. Foster is the professor who draws Justin’s feelings out and gets him to heal. In so many ways. Justin learns that poetry is a outlet for him to deal with his pain, anger, sorrow...For Foster he is entranced by Justin’s writing and the man Justin is.
Justin is a hard working student who doesn’t take anything for granted. He made mistakes and paid for them and now he is working to gain a better life for himself and his mother. Foster intrigues him. As does Justin for Foster.
Foster is the professor that has had a tough year. He is witdrawing into himself and finding no solace in what he once loved. He is becoming stale. When Justin walks into his classroom and after that first poem he is intrigued and fascinated.
Both Foster and Justin are characters you root for. You watch them grown and fall in love. Find their way and grow together. They respect and support one another. Each helping the other to heal and move forward. Their story is filled with joy, sorrow and growth but most of all love. Love from those around them and from one another.You hear both views and for me it is Foster’s that grabs me more. He is more lost than Justin who is focused but not very trusting at first. Justin has had a tough life but he had the love of family felt his whole life I dont’ think Foster got that. These two and their journey to one another and to themselves is one that has you root for them to the end.
They meet via class. A class Justin doesn’t want to take. Foster is the professor who draws Justin’s feelings out and gets him to heal. In so many ways. Justin learns that poetry is a outlet for him to deal with his pain, anger, sorrow...For Foster he is entranced by Justin’s writing and the man Justin is.
Justin is a hard working student who doesn’t take anything for granted. He made mistakes and paid for them and now he is working to gain a better life for himself and his mother. Foster intrigues him. As does Justin for Foster.
Foster is the professor that has had a tough year. He is witdrawing into himself and finding no solace in what he once loved. He is becoming stale. When Justin walks into his classroom and after that first poem he is intrigued and fascinated.
Both Foster and Justin are characters you root for. You watch them grown and fall in love. Find their way and grow together. They respect and support one another. Each helping the other to heal and move forward. Their story is filled with joy, sorrow and growth but most of all love. Love from those around them and from one another.You hear both views and for me it is Foster’s that grabs me more. He is more lost than Justin who is focused but not very trusting at first. Justin has had a tough life but he had the love of family felt his whole life I dont’ think Foster got that. These two and their journey to one another and to themselves is one that has you root for them to the end.
May 21, 2019
Done the Right Way
I have recently expressed my frustration about the increasing number of books which feature a bisexual or a Gay-4-You theme. One of my reasons is that so many of them handle the narrative by just popping up with "OMG let me try that" without adequate character development.
Then why did I love this book in which an early 20's ex-con who was always bisexual before being sent to prison but is now exclusively into men falls under the spell of his 42-year-old college professor whose only romantic experience ended when his much younger wife left him a year ago after only two years of marriage?
The answer is Felice Stevens, an author who takes you by brain and heart right into the brains and hearts of her characters unlike most authors in any genre. In this case you have a lower middle class tatted Brooklyn Latino named Justin Molina (on the cover) knowing from the first page he's in trouble when his poetry professor, the WASPish blond Foster Harding, shows up for the first day of class to which Justin's brain shouts out "Professor McHottie!"
After that things get a little more complicated but not so much as you ever lose the rhythm or the bumps in the ride as these two completely opposite individuals with deeply set confidence issues get to recognize something exceptional in each other so that they can teach, and reach, each other over a rather short period of time.
One of the great things about Ms. Stevens' books is her spot on inclusion of the little things about her characters' environments that anyone who lives in New York City or its surroundings recognize as genuine. In this case, although she never mentions it, the college is New York University and its location in lower Manhattan is a short distance from Foster's Greenwich Village townhouse on the exquisite Perry Street. And, though not identified by a neighborhood name, the street in Brooklyn where Justin lives in a cheap apartment close to his invalid mother whom he adores and supports in the best way he can--by loving her and working two and three jobs to help support her.
Perfect set-up for rich and poor, May to December, how can it go wrong? Oh, in many, many ways and Ms. Stevens tosses a lot of holes in their paths, some of which each man falls into, before the road starts to level out and reach up to the sky.
Along the way we are treated to a wide cross section of family and friends, all of whom are pretty nice people, who help each many overcome whatever disaster, manufactured or otherwise, that comes their way. Included among these characters are a couple of others that are most likely to appear in sequels, since this is the first of a series.
I will gobble them up as soon as each dish is served.
I have recently expressed my frustration about the increasing number of books which feature a bisexual or a Gay-4-You theme. One of my reasons is that so many of them handle the narrative by just popping up with "OMG let me try that" without adequate character development.
Then why did I love this book in which an early 20's ex-con who was always bisexual before being sent to prison but is now exclusively into men falls under the spell of his 42-year-old college professor whose only romantic experience ended when his much younger wife left him a year ago after only two years of marriage?
The answer is Felice Stevens, an author who takes you by brain and heart right into the brains and hearts of her characters unlike most authors in any genre. In this case you have a lower middle class tatted Brooklyn Latino named Justin Molina (on the cover) knowing from the first page he's in trouble when his poetry professor, the WASPish blond Foster Harding, shows up for the first day of class to which Justin's brain shouts out "Professor McHottie!"
After that things get a little more complicated but not so much as you ever lose the rhythm or the bumps in the ride as these two completely opposite individuals with deeply set confidence issues get to recognize something exceptional in each other so that they can teach, and reach, each other over a rather short period of time.
One of the great things about Ms. Stevens' books is her spot on inclusion of the little things about her characters' environments that anyone who lives in New York City or its surroundings recognize as genuine. In this case, although she never mentions it, the college is New York University and its location in lower Manhattan is a short distance from Foster's Greenwich Village townhouse on the exquisite Perry Street. And, though not identified by a neighborhood name, the street in Brooklyn where Justin lives in a cheap apartment close to his invalid mother whom he adores and supports in the best way he can--by loving her and working two and three jobs to help support her.
Perfect set-up for rich and poor, May to December, how can it go wrong? Oh, in many, many ways and Ms. Stevens tosses a lot of holes in their paths, some of which each man falls into, before the road starts to level out and reach up to the sky.
Along the way we are treated to a wide cross section of family and friends, all of whom are pretty nice people, who help each many overcome whatever disaster, manufactured or otherwise, that comes their way. Included among these characters are a couple of others that are most likely to appear in sequels, since this is the first of a series.
I will gobble them up as soon as each dish is served.
May 16, 2019
I’d always been alone, living in silence....
Justin, an ex-con with the burden of regrets he’d been carried after the mistake he did in the past. Learn his mistake and paid it, and now he’s trying to start a new life, to be a better person, graduate college and get a decent job. Closed himself from the world, stay under the radar, play safe, working three jobs to keep the cash flows, Justin has no time for himself. Joining the Poetry Writing class on the last minute has change his life, because he found out that writing has given him an outlet to express his feelings. And Justin's words had caught Professor Harding attention and stir curiosity in him. What happen to this young man? What’s burden he’d been through? What had caused those sadness and regrets in his poems? And Foster want to know more….
But when the play of emotions enter the situations, will they survive the growing attraction that engulfed their already fragile heart?
🍀🍀🍀
Felice did it again. Her new book had hit my already softy heart and touched me so deep.
I thought that this book will full of angst, but apparently it’s turned out not that angsty but still I got tears in my eyes almost the entire reading because the story full of moments that touched my heart and the author know very well how to squeezed your heart without mercy.
I fall in love instantly with both main characters. Their strong and raw emotional connections was there since the beginning and strongly grow to the last page.
Both Justin and Foster carried their own baggage and have self-esteem issues. Add age gap issues and professor/student situation on their plate that could affect their future, Justin and Foster journey for happiness definitely was not an easy path to choose. And the way the author portrayed all these dilemmas was really deep and feels so real.
Great appreciation to all the poems the author wrote to complete the story that successfully brought tears to my eyes. Reading what Justin's feels through his words are another things that made this book feels so special. His sadly beautiful strong words successfully broke my heart into pieces but at the same time it also warmth my heart.
Broken Pieces is a beautiful professor/student story that will not only break your heart but also put your shredded heart back together again with the warm you feels during the reading. You’ll cry, yes! But there’s also lots of things that will put smiles on your face.
Definitely another recommended read from Felice Stevens.
Last, but not least…
With Benny and Gino story on the progress, I want Ross story as well for next!“You saved me, not only from the crappy way I lived, but from drowning in anger and self-pity. You give me peace. A place where I know I’m safe . And you give me your heart , which I don’t deserve.” – Justin
“You enabled me to learn about a part of me I kept hidden. It existed, but I had no desire to explore it further. Until you.” – Foster
*ARC is kindly provided by the Author in exchange of a fair, unbiased and honest review*
May 17, 2019
Broken Silence is the first book in the Rock Bottom series by Felice Stevens. It's a May/December romance between a Professor and his student which really pulls at the heartstrings.
At first look, Justin Molina is a bad boy with his tattoos and constant scowl. What you won't see from his appearance is that he is a deeply scarred young man, one that has been in prison and who blames himself for his father's death and his mother ending up disabled. When he leaves prison he is determined to make something of himself. He works multiple jobs in order to afford to go to college where he wants to graduate with a degree in social work. He also helps his mother with her bills including paying for carers night and day. Far from being a bad boy Justin is a thoughtful, caring person. He finds himself having to take a poetry class at college in order to earn credits.
Professor Foster Faraday Harding is the teacher in that class. He is in his early 40s and is unhappily divorced. His wife was much younger than him and never made him feel secure in their marriage. It was no surprise to him when she left him, though it didn't leave him any less devastated. He hasn't been in a relationship since.
When Foster first sees Justin in his class he just knows that he is there under duress, and really doesn't expect him to make any effort in the class. To his shock, he can't help notice that he is good looking and wonders just how much of his body is covered in tattoos. As for Justin, his first thought upon seeing Foster was that he was one very hot professor. Foster gives the students their first assignment wanting them to choose one word and write a poem about it. When he hears what Justin has written he automatically sees a different side to him, a deeper more emotional side.
The attraction between the couple develops which confuses Foster because he never thought of himself as gay/bi. But the more time they spend together the more he realises that he definitely wants more than friendship with Justin. The age is a problem, the fact that he is his teacher is a bigger problem so there is there any chance for them to become an item?
The relationship building between Justin and Foster was written so beautifully and more importantly, it was believable. Seeing them help each other to overcome their insecurities, low self-esteem and their heartache from the past was very emotional. Also, Justin introducing Foster to the joys of full intimacy with a man was, despite being explicit, nicely done. The emotion they shared was so beautiful, especially for Foster who was never made to feel special by his ex.
I really enjoyed this story, and I loved the poetry. I wish I had a talent for things like that because this book made my interest in it burst. It also kept me gripped from beginning to end with a near perfect epilogue. There was only one thing that I wish would have happened but I can't say because of spoilers. I am sure you will know what it is when you read the book. I definitely recommend this book and I fully intend to read more of the books in the series when they are released.
At first look, Justin Molina is a bad boy with his tattoos and constant scowl. What you won't see from his appearance is that he is a deeply scarred young man, one that has been in prison and who blames himself for his father's death and his mother ending up disabled. When he leaves prison he is determined to make something of himself. He works multiple jobs in order to afford to go to college where he wants to graduate with a degree in social work. He also helps his mother with her bills including paying for carers night and day. Far from being a bad boy Justin is a thoughtful, caring person. He finds himself having to take a poetry class at college in order to earn credits.
Professor Foster Faraday Harding is the teacher in that class. He is in his early 40s and is unhappily divorced. His wife was much younger than him and never made him feel secure in their marriage. It was no surprise to him when she left him, though it didn't leave him any less devastated. He hasn't been in a relationship since.
When Foster first sees Justin in his class he just knows that he is there under duress, and really doesn't expect him to make any effort in the class. To his shock, he can't help notice that he is good looking and wonders just how much of his body is covered in tattoos. As for Justin, his first thought upon seeing Foster was that he was one very hot professor. Foster gives the students their first assignment wanting them to choose one word and write a poem about it. When he hears what Justin has written he automatically sees a different side to him, a deeper more emotional side.
The attraction between the couple develops which confuses Foster because he never thought of himself as gay/bi. But the more time they spend together the more he realises that he definitely wants more than friendship with Justin. The age is a problem, the fact that he is his teacher is a bigger problem so there is there any chance for them to become an item?
The relationship building between Justin and Foster was written so beautifully and more importantly, it was believable. Seeing them help each other to overcome their insecurities, low self-esteem and their heartache from the past was very emotional. Also, Justin introducing Foster to the joys of full intimacy with a man was, despite being explicit, nicely done. The emotion they shared was so beautiful, especially for Foster who was never made to feel special by his ex.
I really enjoyed this story, and I loved the poetry. I wish I had a talent for things like that because this book made my interest in it burst. It also kept me gripped from beginning to end with a near perfect epilogue. There was only one thing that I wish would have happened but I can't say because of spoilers. I am sure you will know what it is when you read the book. I definitely recommend this book and I fully intend to read more of the books in the series when they are released.
May 3, 2019
Another amazing book by Felice Stevens! As with all her books, once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. The writing pulls you in immediately, and you feel like you're fully immersed in the story. I haven't read too many books with age gaps and wasn't sure how I'd like it. Felice portrayed the MCs as equals in e every way, and the age difference felt like nothing to me. I was happy to receive an ARC copy & am glad to leave this review.
June 20, 2019
What an emotional, heart felt read. Broken Silence was a book that I could not put down. Yet, it was also a book that I did not want to finish because I was not ready for Foster's and Justin's story to end. I loved the book so much!
A journey of life, when life takes a turn. Justin and Foster both have to find their way from the hardships life has given them. Poetic words guide the way for both of them. A truly great read!
A journey of life, when life takes a turn. Justin and Foster both have to find their way from the hardships life has given them. Poetic words guide the way for both of them. A truly great read!
June 1, 2019
💖 I loved the start of this book as Justin's honour had me laughing. Poor Justin if it wasn't one thing knocking him back it was another. Money's trees are a dream, not reality with juggling 3 jobs. Secrets and the chemistry buzzing but the teacher/ student thing they fought it or hid from eyes. I was hoping Benny gets a story that Ross might be his boe. A great ending for these guys with fuzzy feelings.
Included ex-con, Bi sexual, struggling to get by, gay curious, virgin, sexy scenes, angst and more.
Justin's 25 yrs enrolment in a poetry class was the last thing he needed to graduate but it did had its attractions.
Professor McHottie aka Foster 42 yrs was his teacher..
Included ex-con, Bi sexual, struggling to get by, gay curious, virgin, sexy scenes, angst and more.
Justin's 25 yrs enrolment in a poetry class was the last thing he needed to graduate but it did had its attractions.
Professor McHottie aka Foster 42 yrs was his teacher..
June 2, 2019
no barriers.
May to December romance. However it was well written and thought out
Bad boy Justine did not know he had a creative poetic side until he started taking Foster's class.
Justine is divorced and coming to terms. Unexpected he never thought the writings of a young tattooed man would bring him to his knees.
Loved this charming romance.
May to December romance. However it was well written and thought out
Bad boy Justine did not know he had a creative poetic side until he started taking Foster's class.
Justine is divorced and coming to terms. Unexpected he never thought the writings of a young tattooed man would bring him to his knees.
Loved this charming romance.
May 3, 2019
As always this story was phenomenal. I loved reading about Foster and Justin, how each completes the other. The dynamics between them are off the charts hot! You’ll never read a professor and student story that equates to this one! Well done!!
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