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Sparrow Sisters #2
Broken Rebel
He’s a reformed bad boy who wants the good girl. Lucky for him, she craves excitement.
Audrey Sparrow lives her life the way other people want her to. She dates the boy her parents like, she studies hard, and she never gets into trouble. Scared of the secret desires deep within her, she pretends she’s happy with the way things are. Then one day, a boy on a motorcycle drives up and asks her if she wants a ride.
Johnny Bright can’t outrun his reputation. No matter what he does, people in this town will always judge him based on his reckless past. He’s been enchanted by Audrey for as long as he can remember, but there’s no way she’d be seen with a guy like him.
Both misunderstood, both searching for something, Johnny and Audrey are drawn to each other. Can they make it work even though the entire town is against them?
Broken Rebel is the second book in the Sparrow Sisters Series. If you want an intense slow-burn romance that will make your heart race, you’ll enjoy this bad boy meets shy girl love story!
Audrey Sparrow lives her life the way other people want her to. She dates the boy her parents like, she studies hard, and she never gets into trouble. Scared of the secret desires deep within her, she pretends she’s happy with the way things are. Then one day, a boy on a motorcycle drives up and asks her if she wants a ride.
Johnny Bright can’t outrun his reputation. No matter what he does, people in this town will always judge him based on his reckless past. He’s been enchanted by Audrey for as long as he can remember, but there’s no way she’d be seen with a guy like him.
Both misunderstood, both searching for something, Johnny and Audrey are drawn to each other. Can they make it work even though the entire town is against them?
Broken Rebel is the second book in the Sparrow Sisters Series. If you want an intense slow-burn romance that will make your heart race, you’ll enjoy this bad boy meets shy girl love story!
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2020
113 people are currently reading
803 people want to read
About the author
Lora Richardson
14 books131 followersHi, I'm Lora. Thanks for taking a peek in here. I live a quiet life in Indiana with my family. I spend my days reading, writing, and hanging out with my people.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 6, 2020
August was not the best reading month for me and everything I was reading felt pretty mediocre. The result was that I was starting to feel slumpish. Enter just the right book at the right time. Lora Richardson and her latest YA contemporary to the rescue! Once I started Broken Rebel I read it in just two or three sittings (something I never do) but that's what happens when you fall into a story that is just so completely readable. (Is readable even a word? It is now.) Richardson pulled me right out of that slump and gave me what I'd been missing all month: characters I loved, who were kind, decent people, and who were imminently easy to pull for. I got all that and more in Broken Rebel. Now, read on while I gush some more and tell you why you need to pick up Broken Rebel, too.
TOP 5 REASONS YOU NEED TO READ BROKEN REBEL
#1 - A Totally Relatable and Likable Main Character
Audrey was a sweet girl and so easy to like. I felt such a kinship with her. As a teenager I, too, kept the peace and made decisions based on others' expectations. I loved seeing her slowly exercise her own voice and make her own choices even when they weren't understood or accepted by some people in her life.
#2 - A Sweet and Swoony Misunderstood Boy
Every girl should be so lucky to have Johnny Bright as their first love. There were plenty of people in town who were determined to keep Johnny pegged as a troublemaker even though that was in his past. He actually had a heart of gold and was determined to be worthy of Audrey.
#3 - A Setting That Makes Me Want to Move to a Small Town
I'm a lifelong city girl girl, but Lora Richardson's portrayal of small town life has me ready to chuck it all and start a simpler life in a little hamlet like Alden, Indiana. Her descriptions of the small town made it feel like another character in the story. Audrey's family home with the wide front porch, the Meadowlark Creamery where Audrey served up ice cream treats, Gladiola Park where the residents gathered for a 4th of July picnic... they all painted a picture of a place I want to see.
#4 - A Cast of Secondary Characters That I want to Be My Neighbors
I enjoyed getting to know more of the residents of Alden. Audrey's sisters Cat (whose story was told in Broken Hollywood) and Valerie, her loving parents, her friend Ruby, her Aunt Glory, Johnny's hard-working mother... they all made for a richer story.
#5 - A Soft Romance That Melted My Heart
Audrey + Johnny gave me total heart eyes. It's as simple as that. They were so good together - and so good for each other. Johnny didn't want Audrey to be anything other than what she was and encouraged her to speak her mind and make her own choices. And Audrey never judged Johnny for his past and pushed him to see his own worth. I loved how Johnny viewed Audrey as something special and the careful way he handled her heart.
All that's left to say is this: if you're looking for a sweet, YA contemporary, look no further than Lora Richardson's Broken Rebel. You won't be disappointed.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This does not impact my opinion of the book or the content of this review. I received no compensation and my review is voluntary.
TOP 5 REASONS YOU NEED TO READ BROKEN REBEL
#1 - A Totally Relatable and Likable Main Character
Audrey was a sweet girl and so easy to like. I felt such a kinship with her. As a teenager I, too, kept the peace and made decisions based on others' expectations. I loved seeing her slowly exercise her own voice and make her own choices even when they weren't understood or accepted by some people in her life.
#2 - A Sweet and Swoony Misunderstood Boy
Every girl should be so lucky to have Johnny Bright as their first love. There were plenty of people in town who were determined to keep Johnny pegged as a troublemaker even though that was in his past. He actually had a heart of gold and was determined to be worthy of Audrey.
#3 - A Setting That Makes Me Want to Move to a Small Town
I'm a lifelong city girl girl, but Lora Richardson's portrayal of small town life has me ready to chuck it all and start a simpler life in a little hamlet like Alden, Indiana. Her descriptions of the small town made it feel like another character in the story. Audrey's family home with the wide front porch, the Meadowlark Creamery where Audrey served up ice cream treats, Gladiola Park where the residents gathered for a 4th of July picnic... they all painted a picture of a place I want to see.
#4 - A Cast of Secondary Characters That I want to Be My Neighbors
I enjoyed getting to know more of the residents of Alden. Audrey's sisters Cat (whose story was told in Broken Hollywood) and Valerie, her loving parents, her friend Ruby, her Aunt Glory, Johnny's hard-working mother... they all made for a richer story.
#5 - A Soft Romance That Melted My Heart
Audrey + Johnny gave me total heart eyes. It's as simple as that. They were so good together - and so good for each other. Johnny didn't want Audrey to be anything other than what she was and encouraged her to speak her mind and make her own choices. And Audrey never judged Johnny for his past and pushed him to see his own worth. I loved how Johnny viewed Audrey as something special and the careful way he handled her heart.
All that's left to say is this: if you're looking for a sweet, YA contemporary, look no further than Lora Richardson's Broken Rebel. You won't be disappointed.
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This does not impact my opinion of the book or the content of this review. I received no compensation and my review is voluntary.
August 31, 2020
I've loved every book that I've read from Lora Richardson, and Broken Rebel is no exception! Audrey and Johnny are both wonderful characters and the book came to an end way to fast!
I recognised myself in Audrey, and Johnny isn't really the "bad boy" everyone thinks. His heart is in the right place and he's very supportive of both his friends and his mother. To begin with, Audrey and Johnny seem to be each others opposites, but they share some similarities too. What I like most is that they make each other see things in a different light.
It's so nice to, now and then, read a book that doesn't contain a lot of darkness or obstacles in the characters way. Of course, there are some serious situations and misunderstandings here too, but mostly I just feel happy while reading Broken Rebel - sometimes even laughing out loud! If you're looking for books that make you feel good and warms your heart I highly recommend that you try some of Lora Richardsons work!
(I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review.)
I recognised myself in Audrey, and Johnny isn't really the "bad boy" everyone thinks. His heart is in the right place and he's very supportive of both his friends and his mother. To begin with, Audrey and Johnny seem to be each others opposites, but they share some similarities too. What I like most is that they make each other see things in a different light.
It's so nice to, now and then, read a book that doesn't contain a lot of darkness or obstacles in the characters way. Of course, there are some serious situations and misunderstandings here too, but mostly I just feel happy while reading Broken Rebel - sometimes even laughing out loud! If you're looking for books that make you feel good and warms your heart I highly recommend that you try some of Lora Richardsons work!
(I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review.)
August 30, 2020
I was so excited to dive back into this world and read Audrey's story. We get to learn who she is on a more personal level, and not just as the shy, timid girl from Cat's story in Broken Hollywood. I enjoyed watching her blossom over the course of the book and find her voice. Plus I just finished this book and I'm still swooning over Johnny Bright! He's the perfect misunderstood bad boy we all love.
September 1, 2020
Another great book in the Sparrow Sisters series! There is so much to love about this series and this book in particular, but I'm just going to highlight a few things I loved.
I loved that Johnny, one of the main characters, wasn't just some "bad boy" that decided to change his ways once he met a "good girl". His character was decided before his relationship with Audrey, the other main character. He was already a good guy trying to do the right thing. Then, with Audrey, the worked together to make each other better people. So often I feel like I read books where a guy changes himself to be with a girl. I enjoyed this change in plot where a guy with a bad reputation was already decidedly a good guy. No matter what happened with Audrey, he was already who he was.
I think the reason I liked this one slightly less than the first is because of the relationship between Johnny and Audrey. I didn’t feel like there was much keeping them apart. Like, there was no reason for them not to be together. Any resistance was quickly dealt with. The whole ordeal felt a little too easy.
Even with my small dislike, I still really enjoyed this book. Richardson has a way of writing feel-good romances without things feeling too cheesy or fake. She makes things feel real and almost like she’s teaching a lesson through these relationships.
Overall, this is another great book by Richardson that you should add to your list ASAP! With the perfect amount of love, humor, and heat, it’s truly a must-read for contemporary romance fans.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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I loved that Johnny, one of the main characters, wasn't just some "bad boy" that decided to change his ways once he met a "good girl". His character was decided before his relationship with Audrey, the other main character. He was already a good guy trying to do the right thing. Then, with Audrey, the worked together to make each other better people. So often I feel like I read books where a guy changes himself to be with a girl. I enjoyed this change in plot where a guy with a bad reputation was already decidedly a good guy. No matter what happened with Audrey, he was already who he was.
I think the reason I liked this one slightly less than the first is because of the relationship between Johnny and Audrey. I didn’t feel like there was much keeping them apart. Like, there was no reason for them not to be together. Any resistance was quickly dealt with. The whole ordeal felt a little too easy.
Even with my small dislike, I still really enjoyed this book. Richardson has a way of writing feel-good romances without things feeling too cheesy or fake. She makes things feel real and almost like she’s teaching a lesson through these relationships.
Overall, this is another great book by Richardson that you should add to your list ASAP! With the perfect amount of love, humor, and heat, it’s truly a must-read for contemporary romance fans.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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September 26, 2020
I read the previous Sparrow Sisters book, Broken Hollywood, but you don't have to read it to read and understand Broken Rebel. It really is more like a stand-alone with a a couple of cool cameos from the previous book.
I really was hoping Audrey would be the Sparrow sister in the next book. Audrey obviously has a big situation - a male best friend who really wants to be something more, and her doubt about her feelings for him and her future. As a narrator, Audrey was thoughtful, and I enjoyed reading her realization that what her life was in high school could be a small sliver of what's out there waiting for her.
On the other hand, Johnny's struggle to remake himself is so hard to read - I know so many students from my classes like this. And here again is Lora Richardson's hallmark ability to make characters sensitive and thoughtful, rather than reactive and rash. And, of course, the slow burn is delightful. I happily devoured this book in two nights.
I was provided an advance copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
I really was hoping Audrey would be the Sparrow sister in the next book. Audrey obviously has a big situation - a male best friend who really wants to be something more, and her doubt about her feelings for him and her future. As a narrator, Audrey was thoughtful, and I enjoyed reading her realization that what her life was in high school could be a small sliver of what's out there waiting for her.
On the other hand, Johnny's struggle to remake himself is so hard to read - I know so many students from my classes like this. And here again is Lora Richardson's hallmark ability to make characters sensitive and thoughtful, rather than reactive and rash. And, of course, the slow burn is delightful. I happily devoured this book in two nights.
I was provided an advance copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
September 3, 2020
I am reviewing ”Broken Rebel” after reading a free ARC copy from the author.
From the outside, Johnny and Audrey are an unlikely couple, but looking deeper, they both crave the same things: adventure, to be understood, and each other.
A wonderfully worded, very enjoyable read, with well developed, loveable characters, this sweet romance is suitable for young adult readers and up.
“The air around us grew thick, swirling with the tension this closeness created. My heart thumped in my chest, faster and faster. Electric heat invaded me, consumed me. God, we weren’t even touching.”
From the outside, Johnny and Audrey are an unlikely couple, but looking deeper, they both crave the same things: adventure, to be understood, and each other.
A wonderfully worded, very enjoyable read, with well developed, loveable characters, this sweet romance is suitable for young adult readers and up.
“The air around us grew thick, swirling with the tension this closeness created. My heart thumped in my chest, faster and faster. Electric heat invaded me, consumed me. God, we weren’t even touching.”
September 3, 2020
A young couple learn to support and trust each other as they grow further in love. The characters are strong and learn to stand by their determination. The locale is perfect and rich in family and friends. The bonds they have with their family and friends adds depth to the characters. So much happens and the emotions are intense. Good things come to those who go after their dreams. Now off to read more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2020
This is the second book in the Sparrow Sisters series. This is another great addition to the series. The story was very well-written and captured my attention right from the start till the very end. Johnny and Audrey were two lovely characters who, upon first glance seemed to be an unlikely pair. But as you get to know them more you can see how perfect for each other they are. This was a very sweet romance and I enjoyed it very much. Looking forward to more from this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2023
Another Sweet Read
A girl who always does as she’s told and is more concerned about others than herself. A boy who’s lived on the wild side yet cares too much about what other people think. A story between a boy and girl who bring out the best in each other. Push each other to be distilled down to their true selves. If you love a bad boy/good girl story, you need to check out Audrey and Johnny’s story!
A girl who always does as she’s told and is more concerned about others than herself. A boy who’s lived on the wild side yet cares too much about what other people think. A story between a boy and girl who bring out the best in each other. Push each other to be distilled down to their true selves. If you love a bad boy/good girl story, you need to check out Audrey and Johnny’s story!
September 3, 2020
I’m loving this series! This was a wonderful bad boy, clean romance. I loved the characters and the inner dialogue they had and their work to overcome perception - both outside and inner. It was a wonderful and sweet adventure that I couldn’t put down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2020
Broken Rebel
Audrey has always been the good sister, done what she was told,not rocked the boat, made sure everyone else was happy. But what about her happiness? Johnny has always been the bad boy, in trouble. But is he as bad as everyone thinks? Can he be as good as his mom knows he is?
Audrey has always been the good sister, done what she was told,not rocked the boat, made sure everyone else was happy. But what about her happiness? Johnny has always been the bad boy, in trouble. But is he as bad as everyone thinks? Can he be as good as his mom knows he is?
September 10, 2020
Another super sweet clean teen romance. Audrey is a very relatable character- wanting to make everyone else happy and not hurt feelings and really truly trying to love Keaton, her best friend. But I love how Audrey starts to get stronger and make decisions for herself. And Johnny-he is adorable. It’s impossible not to fall in love with him with her:)
January 7, 2021
Sweet romance. Family values. Life lessons to be learned. This is a nice heartfelt little story. Don’t judge before you know. Don’t let others’ expectations define your life. Stand up for yourself and help others.
I liked Audrey as a person. I do wish we got more from Keaton and his immature reaction.
I liked Audrey as a person. I do wish we got more from Keaton and his immature reaction.
November 9, 2021
A great story of young love! Audrey and Johnny are so great together. Johnny is misunderstood and trying to prove he isn’t what other think, Audrey is trying to break free of always doing what’s expected and together they do it. Such a cute story and just like the first book I love the relationship each character has with their families.
September 13, 2020
I loved this story with its relatable characters and sweet romance. The author wrote a beautiful love story that was a joy to read. The details make this story come alive and feel real. The characters hooked me by their realistic responses and actions. A truly wonderful story.
July 23, 2023
I found this book specifically through tiktok, not knowing that it was part of a series. Since I found out that it was, I figured I’d give the entire series a shot and I’ve been enjoying it so far. This one was definitely a favorite.
September 11, 2020
Highly Recommended Small Town Romance
I really enjoyed reading Audrey and Johnny’s story, perhaps even more than the first book in this series Broken Hollywood. Which I also loved.
I really enjoyed reading Audrey and Johnny’s story, perhaps even more than the first book in this series Broken Hollywood. Which I also loved.
November 12, 2022
Read it but didn't write a review
December 15, 2022
Small town romance
I love it! Everything about this sweet small town romance book is 🔥! Can’t wait to read the next book 🥰
I love it! Everything about this sweet small town romance book is 🔥! Can’t wait to read the next book 🥰
January 21, 2023
I enjoyed this book. I thought it was going to be a bit more spicy from BookTok's videos, but it was still a great read.
April 25, 2023
(3.75⭐️/0🌶️)
July 18, 2023
such a cute book, but not slow-burn at all.
July 20, 2023
It was okay
July 22, 2023
3.5 stars
January 24, 2023
Light and cute good girl × bad boy romance
Read in one sit!
Definitely cute and funny moments
Relatable carathers
First love
Read in one sit!
Definitely cute and funny moments
Relatable carathers
First love
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews