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Breakthrough
Alex could lose everything, again ...
As a genetics researcher, Alexandria Bennett is confident when it comes to decision making at work, searching for a breast cancer cure, but when it comes to decisions of the heart, not so much.
When Alex meets Madison Thornton, a Pharmacist Consultant, looking to settle down and have a family, all the safe and comfortable rules by which her internal compass is governed will be tested. The undeniable attraction between Alex and Madison is immediate and a budding romance is there for the taking, but only if both women are willing to let go of their fears and trust in it.
While Alex navigates her heart and desires, outside forces threaten breakthroughs in her research, creating an entirely different kind of fear in her world. Will Alex be able to protect the women she has dedicated her life to helping and be brave enough to let love in?
As a genetics researcher, Alexandria Bennett is confident when it comes to decision making at work, searching for a breast cancer cure, but when it comes to decisions of the heart, not so much.
When Alex meets Madison Thornton, a Pharmacist Consultant, looking to settle down and have a family, all the safe and comfortable rules by which her internal compass is governed will be tested. The undeniable attraction between Alex and Madison is immediate and a budding romance is there for the taking, but only if both women are willing to let go of their fears and trust in it.
While Alex navigates her heart and desires, outside forces threaten breakthroughs in her research, creating an entirely different kind of fear in her world. Will Alex be able to protect the women she has dedicated her life to helping and be brave enough to let love in?
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2020
73 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Terri Cutshall
2 books9 followersTerri Cutshall was born and raised in Pennsylvania, where she earned a degree in Pharmacy. She’s worked as a pharmacist in Clinical Operations for most of her career. When not working or writing, she can be found spending time with her horse and dogs or traveling. She currently lives near Raleigh, North Carolina, with her wife.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 11, 2021
**'Never try to tailor your writing to what you as a writer thinks will be enticing to readers.That's not the same as trying to make it engaging and readable which is fine..'
2.5stars!
A barely readable story -- skipped a lot just to get through to the ending..
2.5stars!
A barely readable story -- skipped a lot just to get through to the ending..
October 17, 2020
Kindle Unlimited Original Read.
Alex is a genetics researcher on the cusp of a breakthrough to create a preventative medicine that may stop the genes associated with predisposed breast cancer from forming into cancer at all. Madison is a pharmacist consultant brought in to help assist with her research.
The two met previously at a bar, but Madison turned down Alex's one night stand offer, because that is not her style. Later they meet about the job and recognize eachother but the two agree to work together on this project as professionals, both are incredibly smart and well respected in their fields.
Alex has had a casual no strings fling with her current co-worker Michael for years. The author details the straight sex they have (ew) while Alex imagines being with Madison during it, and it would appear they do not wear a condom, which I think is ridiculous for people clearly engaging in casual sex while also picking up others on the side for the same.
Alex is a really confounding character. She is constantly flip-flopping between wanting Madison, feeling strongly for her, but being scared and pushing her away. She starts flirting and acting like she wants more, then pulling back. I just wanted to scream, make up your damned mind woman!
We are introduced to a bar tender friend, Callie and then a cop Tina, who is interested in Callie, but has a dark past to do with breast cancer herself.
Alex and Madison try to get closer, Alex admitting she's no good at relationships, emotions and expressing them are hard for her, with Madison being open that she won't do casual but would like to get to know Alex better. They go back and forth a bit, spending time with eachother and Alex opening up little by little, and then falling into bed because their chemistry is off the charts.
Then of course drama ensues - Michael tries it on with Alex in a carpark, where Madison see's and even though Alex says No, because she's seeing someone she is serious about and dismisses him, Madison only see's them looking hot and heavy against a car, so is disappointed. They talk but part ways, because Alex is too focused on her research and is ignoring Madison; who doesn't want to be hurt and feels she is still kept at arms length by Alex.
There's some threats on Alex and their research. Alex and Madison are pining for eachother and get back together with some heartfelt proclamations of honesty, growth and trying to do better.
The threat level rises again with the need for a bodyguard from the police for Alex. The threat comes from a place closer to them than they think, which actually ended up being surprising and also saddening.
I did enjoy the story because it was different enough from the norm, and I appreciated the challenges Alex went through to deal with her issues to find love with Madison. The background threats to their safety was also intriguing.
There was a lot of scientific speak with regards to the cancer research being done, I was only just able to keep up because of my own experiences with cancer genes in my family and a rare mutation which has meant genetic testing and knowing more than I wanted to about the subject. But I am not sure how the average joe, (like I myself was a few years ago) could handle the technical talk involved, and if it would perhaps be too much to understand? Maybe I am underestimating others.
There are some confronting discussions inside about genetic testing and if people should know, and what that can do for them, both good and bad. Plus the moral ramifications of what researchers can then do with that information. Which I appreciated.
This does impact one character immensely and motivates them into desperate acts, because of something that happened in their past. So it could be confronting for people to read if that storyline hits a bit close to home for you. Although the overall story is the romance, the cancer research storyline takes up a large chunk too, so it's not easily skimmed over.
If you think the premise sounds interesting, give it a go! Kindle Unlimited Read.
Alex is a genetics researcher on the cusp of a breakthrough to create a preventative medicine that may stop the genes associated with predisposed breast cancer from forming into cancer at all. Madison is a pharmacist consultant brought in to help assist with her research.
The two met previously at a bar, but Madison turned down Alex's one night stand offer, because that is not her style. Later they meet about the job and recognize eachother but the two agree to work together on this project as professionals, both are incredibly smart and well respected in their fields.
Alex has had a casual no strings fling with her current co-worker Michael for years. The author details the straight sex they have (ew) while Alex imagines being with Madison during it, and it would appear they do not wear a condom, which I think is ridiculous for people clearly engaging in casual sex while also picking up others on the side for the same.
Alex is a really confounding character. She is constantly flip-flopping between wanting Madison, feeling strongly for her, but being scared and pushing her away. She starts flirting and acting like she wants more, then pulling back. I just wanted to scream, make up your damned mind woman!
We are introduced to a bar tender friend, Callie and then a cop Tina, who is interested in Callie, but has a dark past to do with breast cancer herself.
Alex and Madison try to get closer, Alex admitting she's no good at relationships, emotions and expressing them are hard for her, with Madison being open that she won't do casual but would like to get to know Alex better. They go back and forth a bit, spending time with eachother and Alex opening up little by little, and then falling into bed because their chemistry is off the charts.
Then of course drama ensues - Michael tries it on with Alex in a carpark, where Madison see's and even though Alex says No, because she's seeing someone she is serious about and dismisses him, Madison only see's them looking hot and heavy against a car, so is disappointed. They talk but part ways, because Alex is too focused on her research and is ignoring Madison; who doesn't want to be hurt and feels she is still kept at arms length by Alex.
There's some threats on Alex and their research. Alex and Madison are pining for eachother and get back together with some heartfelt proclamations of honesty, growth and trying to do better.
The threat level rises again with the need for a bodyguard from the police for Alex. The threat comes from a place closer to them than they think, which actually ended up being surprising and also saddening.
I did enjoy the story because it was different enough from the norm, and I appreciated the challenges Alex went through to deal with her issues to find love with Madison. The background threats to their safety was also intriguing.
There was a lot of scientific speak with regards to the cancer research being done, I was only just able to keep up because of my own experiences with cancer genes in my family and a rare mutation which has meant genetic testing and knowing more than I wanted to about the subject. But I am not sure how the average joe, (like I myself was a few years ago) could handle the technical talk involved, and if it would perhaps be too much to understand? Maybe I am underestimating others.
There are some confronting discussions inside about genetic testing and if people should know, and what that can do for them, both good and bad. Plus the moral ramifications of what researchers can then do with that information. Which I appreciated.
This does impact one character immensely and motivates them into desperate acts, because of something that happened in their past. So it could be confronting for people to read if that storyline hits a bit close to home for you. Although the overall story is the romance, the cancer research storyline takes up a large chunk too, so it's not easily skimmed over.
If you think the premise sounds interesting, give it a go! Kindle Unlimited Read.
October 20, 2020
Lots of information of medical/scientific form in conversations that would be over the top except for two people who like intelligent conversations. Story was good, plot hiccupped somewhat, jumped from one scene to another without telling how it got there or where it happened.
February 13, 2021
I enjoyed this and would reread, thus the 5*s - but it did hang over a bit in the middle, then threatened to move into thriller territory but never quite got there. Without spoiling the plot there were a couple of 'would she really react like that'? But I brought into the characters.
December 26, 2020
I really thought I'd like this more as the unique plot line seemed promising. Unfortunately, there were quite a few bumps in this novel as the scenes would jump, and the development of the story felt fragmented and unrealistic. There was a lot of 'telling' in this too, which really impacts my enjoyment of a novel.
February 23, 2021
I really wanted to like this book. It had good potential but it was too tell and not enough show.
October 18, 2020
Excellent Read!
I loved this book. It gave me such a good feeling, with the research for breast cancer and the vulnerability of acceptance especially with love. This being a debut novel for this writer who has experience in pharmaceutical and considering the topic, I thought this could easily get away from us with too much knowledge. I love how the story started out in a club and dancing. Totally away from the big topic and just the chemistry between Madison and Brooke aka Alex was enough to get this book going. As the story starts to reveal itself you learn the cold demeanor of Alex caused by her past and the warm hearted person Madison is. When they find themselves together in a work research project, the sparks fly and learning about each other is as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming. You also realize there is a threat situation and this added another dimension. Needless to say without revealing too much of the story, it captures the reader and pulls you in. You know their is going to be a “breakthrough” but in which first, love or chemistry. Excellent debut read. There were a couple of grammatical errors but nothing that threw me off. Highly recommend!
I loved this book. It gave me such a good feeling, with the research for breast cancer and the vulnerability of acceptance especially with love. This being a debut novel for this writer who has experience in pharmaceutical and considering the topic, I thought this could easily get away from us with too much knowledge. I love how the story started out in a club and dancing. Totally away from the big topic and just the chemistry between Madison and Brooke aka Alex was enough to get this book going. As the story starts to reveal itself you learn the cold demeanor of Alex caused by her past and the warm hearted person Madison is. When they find themselves together in a work research project, the sparks fly and learning about each other is as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming. You also realize there is a threat situation and this added another dimension. Needless to say without revealing too much of the story, it captures the reader and pulls you in. You know their is going to be a “breakthrough” but in which first, love or chemistry. Excellent debut read. There were a couple of grammatical errors but nothing that threw me off. Highly recommend!
October 29, 2020
Trigger warning: breast cancer
I'm shocked that this is Terri Cutshall's first book. The editing and writing was spot on. It has science regarding trying to find a cure to breast cancer. There is romance and horses.
I'm shocked that this is Terri Cutshall's first book. The editing and writing was spot on. It has science regarding trying to find a cure to breast cancer. There is romance and horses.
March 31, 2021
A wonderful debut novel!
I don't know how she did it, but Terri hit a homerun with her first novel. I'm really not very knowledgeable about genetics so when I began reading about Alex, a genetics researcher and Madison, a pharmacist consultant, I almost couldn't get into it. But the work revolved around preventing breast cancer and the ethical implications and controversies surrounding the gene question. Now what woman can't re!are to that?
lex was such a deep, conflicted character. It would certainl y take a lot of time and patience for the warm and outgoing Madison to truly get to know and understand her, but their personal journeys were well worth that patience. The way the story was written really pulled me into their struggles to "wholly" be together. No matter who you love, that struggle to find the right person is universal.
The secondary characters were rich and the suspense twist in the story was perfect. The writing flowed easily and the dialogue appeared so sincere, whether it be heartwarming, fun and conversational or if it provoked discomfort and soul searching. The intimate scenes were beautiful and the title is a perfect example of the journey between Alex and Madison. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to many more from this talented new author!
I don't know how she did it, but Terri hit a homerun with her first novel. I'm really not very knowledgeable about genetics so when I began reading about Alex, a genetics researcher and Madison, a pharmacist consultant, I almost couldn't get into it. But the work revolved around preventing breast cancer and the ethical implications and controversies surrounding the gene question. Now what woman can't re!are to that?
lex was such a deep, conflicted character. It would certainl y take a lot of time and patience for the warm and outgoing Madison to truly get to know and understand her, but their personal journeys were well worth that patience. The way the story was written really pulled me into their struggles to "wholly" be together. No matter who you love, that struggle to find the right person is universal.
The secondary characters were rich and the suspense twist in the story was perfect. The writing flowed easily and the dialogue appeared so sincere, whether it be heartwarming, fun and conversational or if it provoked discomfort and soul searching. The intimate scenes were beautiful and the title is a perfect example of the journey between Alex and Madison. I really enjoyed the book and look forward to many more from this talented new author!
August 6, 2022
Adorable romance!
I'm personally not a huge fan of romance novels. Every time I try one, they tend to leave me dissatisfied, and I realized it's a genre I can't really get into. BUT- this book was really good. It was enjoyable, and I liked how in depth the characterization went for the leads.
Alex and Madison had so much time to develop their interest in each other. I don't think "slow burn" is the right term to use, but I liked how they did take their time before diving right into dating. The build up was nice. I enjoyed the tension at the end. And the science scenes were cool.
I work part time in a pharmacy, so some of the terminology was fun to read. It's not something I'm used to seeing in fiction books.
Overall, I'm really happy I thoroughly enjoyed a romance novel.
I'm personally not a huge fan of romance novels. Every time I try one, they tend to leave me dissatisfied, and I realized it's a genre I can't really get into. BUT- this book was really good. It was enjoyable, and I liked how in depth the characterization went for the leads.
Alex and Madison had so much time to develop their interest in each other. I don't think "slow burn" is the right term to use, but I liked how they did take their time before diving right into dating. The build up was nice. I enjoyed the tension at the end. And the science scenes were cool.
I work part time in a pharmacy, so some of the terminology was fun to read. It's not something I'm used to seeing in fiction books.
Overall, I'm really happy I thoroughly enjoyed a romance novel.
July 4, 2022
This romance is built around a unique medical drama. The settings are well described and the main and supporting characters are pleasantly imperfect. The writing shows promise and the book would be very enjoyable if it were edited professionally. Everything that kept this from being a good read for me (head hopping, fragmented scenes, overly detailed medical-speak, telling/not showing) could easily be fixed. After some thought, I put this book in the two star category. I had a hard time finishing it and that really means a two star read for me. Without a revision, I won't be rereading this one.
November 4, 2020
The author's ability to write the technical side of breast cancer medical research was most appreciated. The moral quandary around the research was well written without being bogged down with unnecessary debate(s).
The love story was a plus and the threat to Alex's person and eventually Madison came from a surprising source.
This was a well written medical drama romance.
The love story was a plus and the threat to Alex's person and eventually Madison came from a surprising source.
This was a well written medical drama romance.
February 25, 2021
Madison and Alex meet for the first time at a club, and what a surprise when they meet each other again at a work setting. Alex is trying to find the cure to brest cancer related to the BRCA gene and Madison is her pharmacy consultant.
It was a good book, lots of medical terms here and there, lots of horse races terms here and there, and some really good character development with Alex and her relationship with Madison.
It was a good book, lots of medical terms here and there, lots of horse races terms here and there, and some really good character development with Alex and her relationship with Madison.
July 24, 2025
I couldn't believe this was the author's first novel. I love the story, which involves a pharmacist and a geneticist, because it doesn't dumb down the scientific language. There are plots of medical ethics, healing childhood trauma that affects adult relationships, suspense, and horses! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Fun summertime read.
September 27, 2020
A true modern day love story and mystery!
Breakthrough easily blends science, mystery and love to create a spellbound story. Love it and recommend it to all searching for in intelligent love story for the modern age.
Breakthrough easily blends science, mystery and love to create a spellbound story. Love it and recommend it to all searching for in intelligent love story for the modern age.
February 8, 2023
Great read
This book deals with a lot of emotional issues, mental health, grief, communication and intense relationship issues. You will laugh and cry and root for for them to work things out.
This book deals with a lot of emotional issues, mental health, grief, communication and intense relationship issues. You will laugh and cry and root for for them to work things out.
November 12, 2020
Great story really enjoyed the book
September 20, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. Besides being a nice love story, it also teaches science and how treatments are developed. It was fascinating and very informative.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews