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Genesis Lost #3
Broken
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
She’s the child I always wanted; her mother the woman who betrayed me.
It’s bad enough that my wife disappeared on me. But when she turns up again a year later with a baby that isn’t mine, my soul shatters anew.
Entrusted with the infant’s care while the Districts hold her mother captive, this little girl turns my world upside down. Her coos mend a heart I thought forever broken, until Darya returns and demands her daughter back.
I refuse to give her up.
Want to see my wife’s heart shatter.
She can’t hope for my forgiveness and certainly not for me to return this child — because I am chieftain. I am law.
Broken is the fourth book in this interconnected dystopian romance series, with no cliffhangers, no insta-love, no cheating, and a guaranteed Happy for Now.
She’s the child I always wanted; her mother the woman who betrayed me.
It’s bad enough that my wife disappeared on me. But when she turns up again a year later with a baby that isn’t mine, my soul shatters anew.
Entrusted with the infant’s care while the Districts hold her mother captive, this little girl turns my world upside down. Her coos mend a heart I thought forever broken, until Darya returns and demands her daughter back.
I refuse to give her up.
Want to see my wife’s heart shatter.
She can’t hope for my forgiveness and certainly not for me to return this child — because I am chieftain. I am law.
Broken is the fourth book in this interconnected dystopian romance series, with no cliffhangers, no insta-love, no cheating, and a guaranteed Happy for Now.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2019
14 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 18, 2020
I originally didn't want to read this. I had read the blurb while browsing for a new read and I hadn't read any prior books in the series. I really couldn't imagine how the author could make the situation of a H's wife who abandons him, has a baby via insemination, returns, and then have believable romantic reconciliation possible.
I was wrong, really wrong. From his connection to the baby to the day to day hurt and conflict of a marriage in crisis that still somehow simmers with love and passion. I was in it every moment. I loved that the actual impetus that drove Darya's decision to have a baby isn't what you think it is, but is probably one of the most honest example of the thought process of heartbreak.
Darya's original abandonment could seem contrived at first glance, since it's a major overreaction, except that is exactly the kind of thing that people do all the time. They panic and make the most puerile mistakes in reaction, with huge consequences, and then they think, "What the heck have I done!!" You can you see why she apologises, but doesn't ask for forgiveness. She doesn't feel like her actions are forgivable since she can't even justify them to herself.
IF YOU REALLY LOVED THIS H AND h DO NOT READ THE LAST BOOK IN THE SERIES OR YOU WILL BE UNHAPPY. THIS BOOK IS A HFN, NOT A HEA FOR THE SERIES.
I enjoyed the last book until the ending. The ending. Was it a dream, were we going to get a surprise reversal, but no, and then it ends.... What!?! In a historical fiction novel I get things like this, not so much in straight fiction. Even plot wise I didn't feel like it had the significance that was implied. It was weird, and an incredible let down for an end of a series. I still feel good about recommending this book, but wish I had had a caveat emptor before I read the last.
I was wrong, really wrong. From his connection to the baby to the day to day hurt and conflict of a marriage in crisis that still somehow simmers with love and passion. I was in it every moment. I loved that the actual impetus that drove Darya's decision to have a baby isn't what you think it is, but is probably one of the most honest example of the thought process of heartbreak.
Darya's original abandonment could seem contrived at first glance, since it's a major overreaction, except that is exactly the kind of thing that people do all the time. They panic and make the most puerile mistakes in reaction, with huge consequences, and then they think, "What the heck have I done!!" You can you see why she apologises, but doesn't ask for forgiveness. She doesn't feel like her actions are forgivable since she can't even justify them to herself.
IF YOU REALLY LOVED THIS H AND h DO NOT READ THE LAST BOOK IN THE SERIES OR YOU WILL BE UNHAPPY. THIS BOOK IS A HFN, NOT A HEA FOR THE SERIES.
I enjoyed the last book until the ending. The ending. Was it a dream, were we going to get a surprise reversal, but no, and then it ends.... What!?! In a historical fiction novel I get things like this, not so much in straight fiction. Even plot wise I didn't feel like it had the significance that was implied. It was weird, and an incredible let down for an end of a series. I still feel good about recommending this book, but wish I had had a caveat emptor before I read the last.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2019
So beautiful and moving, passionate and real. This is the three book in series and though it is a stand-alone, it really helps to understand the underlying story of you read them in order.
Rowan is this big, gruff chieftain who was left jaded and scarred emotionally after his wife ran away a year ago. He holds himself together by a thread for his Clan; but when is sister shows up after being sent to the Districts with a kidnapped scientist and his wife's baby in tow, he's thrown for a loop. He's angry, he can't even look at this little baby without thinking of the betrayal of his wife. Her little face and smiles soon win him over though and he finds she is his light in the darkness. Back in the Districts, Darya, is concerned that her daughter is dead. A timely rescue brings her face-to-face with her husband, Rowan and her past. This is a story is second-chances and past regrets, of moving beyond pride and hurts and making a future of love and family. Though it's set in a post- apocalyptic time, it's full of relevant issues that make these characters'emotions bleed off the page. This is a series to read.
Rowan is this big, gruff chieftain who was left jaded and scarred emotionally after his wife ran away a year ago. He holds himself together by a thread for his Clan; but when is sister shows up after being sent to the Districts with a kidnapped scientist and his wife's baby in tow, he's thrown for a loop. He's angry, he can't even look at this little baby without thinking of the betrayal of his wife. Her little face and smiles soon win him over though and he finds she is his light in the darkness. Back in the Districts, Darya, is concerned that her daughter is dead. A timely rescue brings her face-to-face with her husband, Rowan and her past. This is a story is second-chances and past regrets, of moving beyond pride and hurts and making a future of love and family. Though it's set in a post- apocalyptic time, it's full of relevant issues that make these characters'emotions bleed off the page. This is a series to read.
August 5, 2019
Second chance 4 ½ stars - I’m not sure if Darya’s initial reason for leaving Rowan justifies it. Would it have been better if they talked it out like mature adults do? Yes, but that would leave us with no story. Also, I find Hazel’s comments to Darya, when the later consulted the former about her “pregnancy”, suspect because Rowan, as revealed in one of his internal monologues, broke Hazel’s heart to be with Darya. And what’s with Xavier? Can his offer of support be trusted? This book in the series has emotional rawness to it. It is a steamy romance packed with action and danger. It has a HEA for Rowan and Darya but the mystery at the end? That will pull you in for the next book. [I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.]
August 22, 2022
This series reminded me of the Men of the North series. Post apocalyptic, more men than women, the elitist societies in the south harbor secrets and propogate lies. Ultimately, in this series, the elitist group commits torture and mass murder.
I greatly enjoyed the stories but I can't believe how many typos riddled this series.
Each story in the series is more exciting than the previous one. When I got to book 6 I realized that there should be more to the series. I'm not sure when the author plans to continue with this series but she said it probably wouldn't be completed in the form it's currently in.
Broken is about Chieftain Rowan of the Woodland Clan and his missing wife Darya. It's about a love betrayed and mended.
I greatly enjoyed the stories but I can't believe how many typos riddled this series.
Each story in the series is more exciting than the previous one. When I got to book 6 I realized that there should be more to the series. I'm not sure when the author plans to continue with this series but she said it probably wouldn't be completed in the form it's currently in.
Broken is about Chieftain Rowan of the Woodland Clan and his missing wife Darya. It's about a love betrayed and mended.
August 4, 2019
First let me say this, in book one I thought the book enjoyable but slow moving. As I've moved through book two and now book three, this series had worked it's way under my skin and taken me on such an emotional journey it's hard to believe my initial reaction. V.K. Ludwing lets us get to know Rowan and Darya on a whole new level. Their physical and emotional trials and tribulations are so vivid, I felt pulled down a rabbit hole I couldn't leave until all of us found our way out. Action, adventure, lies and mistrust, hard truths, forgiveness, and an undying love are all part of this wonderful story that pulled both good and bad tears from me. This one has all the feels.
August 1, 2022
Stay Away!!!
Spoilers
You should only read this book if you are all right with the hero being killed in book six, which is set about a year after this one. I was hoping this was going to be a more dystopian Men of the North series but it started going off the rails with this book (Think mass execution by the MC). The only thing I’m happy about is that I didn’t write any of my reviews before finishing the series. I’d feel terrible if someone read them based on a positive review that I’d written before finishing. If you’re more into The Walking Dead than romance they’re a pretty good read but they definitely don’t belong in the romance genre!
Spoilers
You should only read this book if you are all right with the hero being killed in book six, which is set about a year after this one. I was hoping this was going to be a more dystopian Men of the North series but it started going off the rails with this book (Think mass execution by the MC). The only thing I’m happy about is that I didn’t write any of my reviews before finishing the series. I’d feel terrible if someone read them based on a positive review that I’d written before finishing. If you’re more into The Walking Dead than romance they’re a pretty good read but they definitely don’t belong in the romance genre!
August 4, 2019
Excellent World Building:
Darya yearned for a child and ended up in the District where she had successful insemination. On the journey back to the Woodlands, she was captured and returned to the District. Baby Rose was rescued by the Clansmen and Rowan reluctantly took charge of his estranged wife’s daughter. There are some humorous moments within this heart wrenching novel. The characters are well developed and V. K. Ludwig has built a vivid storyline. I recommend this entire series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Darya yearned for a child and ended up in the District where she had successful insemination. On the journey back to the Woodlands, she was captured and returned to the District. Baby Rose was rescued by the Clansmen and Rowan reluctantly took charge of his estranged wife’s daughter. There are some humorous moments within this heart wrenching novel. The characters are well developed and V. K. Ludwig has built a vivid storyline. I recommend this entire series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 5, 2019
This is the 3rd book in the series and I do recommend reading them in order. Rowan’s wife was missing for a year and when she finally returns, she shows up with a baby that doesn’t belong to Rowan. Can he care for a child that doesn’t belong to him? Can he ever trust his wife again? This is a fast-paced read with lots of drama and plenty of twists and turns. The story really takes you on a wild journey into to future. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it!
July 12, 2019
Rowan and Darya's story is beautiful and moving. It has passion, lots of emotions, and amazing character. This is a very enjoyable read with incredible character background and development. What an amazing second chance romantic read! I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving an unbiased, honest review.
July 21, 2019
In this book you learn more Rowan and Darya. I felt sorry for Darya since she went through hardships in the District before she got rescued and then she gets back and Rowan does not make it easy for her. This is a very emotional book, but well worth the read. This is an amazing series and I can't wait for the next book.
I received this book as an ARC and voluntarily leave this review.
I received this book as an ARC and voluntarily leave this review.
July 3, 2019
I received for an honest review
This is book three in series and I love everything about this read the characters draw me into the story it’s so well written I feel as though I’m right there experiencing what they are I love it a must read
This is book three in series and I love everything about this read the characters draw me into the story it’s so well written I feel as though I’m right there experiencing what they are I love it a must read
July 12, 2019
This is book 3 and a second chance love story!
Finally we get Rowan & Darya story.
When I read the Prequel about these two I wished it was the first book in this series!
But I get it why we had t wait for them.
What a ride this was. Loved it.
Finally we get Rowan & Darya story.
When I read the Prequel about these two I wished it was the first book in this series!
But I get it why we had t wait for them.
What a ride this was. Loved it.
July 21, 2019
Absolutely loved this story. I love how Rowen comes to love his wife's baby as his own how he takes care of her like a true father should take care of his kid. And the rescue of his wife couldn't have come any sooner.
I'm reviewing an ARC
I'm reviewing an ARC
August 4, 2019
This book was amazing the author is amazing. The characters and the book cover are awesome.
August 3, 2025
lots of frustrating choices made in this one. I teared up a few times. on to the next.
December 16, 2025
Love all of this series
I love the characters and the dynamics of the relationships. I like how they learn and grow. Can't wait to read the next one.
I love the characters and the dynamics of the relationships. I like how they learn and grow. Can't wait to read the next one.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews