Zara Levy is an introvert with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, who lives according to what her mental health dictates. At twenty-nine years old, she has dedicated the last decade of her life to helping other young people who are battling their own disorders and attempting to make a difference where she can. Her kind heart and generous nature make her well loved amongst those who know her, but her brain continues to convince her she’s not worthy. She has certain dreams and goals for her life but struggles to achieve them with the invisible barriers she faces each day. When some big changes happen for Zara’s best friend, Quinn, Zara questions whether she’s allowing the best years of her life to pass on by rather than living them. When a handsome stranger comes crashing into her world, literally, she has the opportunity to have everything she’s ever wanted. There’s just one problem. Love doesn’t fix all that is broken; that’s something she has to do herself. Will she be able to embrace her flaws and strive for happiness? Or will her inner demons convince her she’s just too broken?
Tiffany was born and raised in a small town in Muskoka, Ontario, spending much of her childhood outdoors. She moved to attend McMaster University for Psychology at age seventeen. After university, she met her husband, and rather than pursuing a career, opted to stay at home to raise their two daughters. Since 2013 she has homeschooled her girls, and as they became more independent in their learning, Tiffany was seeking out ways to make use of her time. She opted to study to become a freelance proofreader since she was a voracious reader. Once her proofreading business was established, she dove into editing courses, and rather than focus exclusively on editing, she took creative writing classes to be able to better understand the writing process. As it turned out, she loved that process. Her first novel, We're All a Little Broken was written largely based on her own life and struggles with mental illness, which she wanted to share to help others like her not feel alone. While she didn't pursue a career in psychology, it's still very much an area of interest, and shedding light on mental health is something she is very passionate about.
I love what the author was trying to do here. Anxiety awareness is totally something I can get behind. It felt like this was written by someone observing Zara, which of course it was since it's fiction, but it shouldn't feel that way. Everything felt very forced and distant instead of personal and flowing. I will still be passing this on to a friend since I think she will like all the things I didn't 😂
The title of this book spoke to me before I knew what this book was all about, and I am so glad I picked it up.
If I am going to be completely honest, this book was quite hard for me to read. Not because it's anything less than good, but because I found so many similarities between the main character's thoughts and my own. I, too, have anxiety.
At the beginning of the book, reading Zara's thoughts made me laugh several times. As the story progressed, I began to view them as an 'outsider' and realized then how others might see the things I say or do. It turned my laughter into sorry, and my sympathy into pain. I understand completely what goes through Zara's mind, and while I am glad about how things worked out for her, I can't help wondering how many other people with anxiety in real life are misunderstood and mistreated because of who they--we--are, throughout their lives.
I applaud the author for her courage to write an honest book about what goes on in the minds of someone with anxiety, as this book really is a one of a kind. Some things in the plot are a little too 'convenient' for me, and for a person to keep having bad things happening to them also takes away a bit of the plausibility of the whole plot, but these are nothing compared to the overall beautiful & important message that the story tells.
The side characters Chelsea and Isla's storylines are also a delight to follow, and I cannot wait for the second book of You Are Enough series to come out!
I warmly recommend this book to anyone who's ready to dive into a broken mind and come out all new & soothed.
This is a debut from Tiffany Andrea. For her first book she not only gives us this beautiful romance between Zara and Zach but explores with dignity and grace the very real issue of mental health and the personal struggles with it. The title "We're All A Little Broken" is appropriate not only for our main characters but for readers too. I found myself identifying closely with many of the doubts and concerns that came into Zara's head. This is not a light read, there are some sensitive subjects that are raised but Tiffany approaches them with delicacy and truth that shows mental health improvement is not a quick remedy, it is a constant ebb and flow in someone's life and most important of all, nobody needs to be "fixed" from it.
"I don't want to 'fix' you. I don't need you to be perfect. I need you to be you."
Zara and Zach's journey is not a simple path, each with their own struggles, but they help one another find their way. I loved how patient Zach was with Zara, always there for her, even when her own doubts nearly drowned her. His love for her, regardless of how she saw herself, was beautiful.
"Normal is overrated. You're even better."
An amazing first novel by Tiffany Andrea. This author is definitely one to watch, I'm looking forward to book two in the "You Are Enough" series.
I also love the addition at the end from Linaya. A beautiful way to finish the book.
Mental health is a very common struggle which sadly is often hidden and swept under the carpet...
This story is oh so truthful and the debut author who I love to also call a friend made it her mission to be brutally honest when she wrote this novel, aka no carpet sweeping.
If you want to know what it must be like for someone who suffers with crippling anxiety pick up this book and step into the life of Zara our leading lady. Tiffany Andrea takes you through a world of introverts, anxiety and depression. BUT the author cleverly adds her spin of humour and heartfelt antics that Zara and her beau Zach go through.
The title “We’re all a little broken” is perfect for this story that shows the ups and downs of daily life but also how the story tackles such sensitive topics.
This is a mixture of romance, self doubts, laughs and lots of inner dialogue.. if I’m honest I would have preferred a tad less of the inner dialogue - but I understand completely why and the need for it to be there.
It’s hard to say more without giving away spoilers so you’ll just have to pick up @burdenofproofs debut novel and see for yourself.
A fabulous read, I take my hat off to the author for tackling with such honesty this sensitive and raw topic.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Amazing Tiffany. 👏 👏 👏
This story portrays Zara's anxiety in such a realistic way that sometimes it felt like the author had reached into my own head and put my own thoughts down on paper.
As a person who suffers from anxiety it was great to see it shown in such a realistic way for readers to get a better understanding of how debilitating anxiety can be.
The author shows that mental health is something people struggle with, how they try to cope day in and day out with it, without wanting to be a burden as well as that they do need to reach out for help.
I loved the sweet love story of Zach and Zara as well. This story pulled at my heart strings and had me shedding some tears plus laughing at the funny bits.
This book is a stunning portrayal of the ever present negative inner voice people with mental health issues live with. If you want to understand what your loved one with anxiety feels like, read this book.
Through her story, the author tackles something we all experience, but we are often afraid to talk about: anxiety. She introduces us to the world of anxious introverts, showing what it means to struggle with crippling anxiety and depression. I believe the author has done an amazing job in presenting the life-altering effects of anxiety. The main character, Zara, is practically consumed by her anxious thoughts and we can see how difficult it is for her to pursue her dreams and aspirations. Even though the chosen topic is heavy, the author has managed to offer a story that includes a bit of everything. She shows that there are many lessons one can learn from such a tough journey, and I liked that she did not try to sugarcoat this sensitive topic. Her story will, no doubt, help people who suffer from anxiety in real life, proving they are not alone and that it is possible to overcome the negative self-talk. It is not easy to write about anxiety, but the author has managed to do it in a way that is entertaining and inspiring at the same time. While reading, I empathized with Zara and her trials; her inner monologue is well-written and heartwarming, serving as a reminder that mental health issues can hold us back from achieving our dreams. A wonderful book! I applaud the author for having had the courage to write about such a sensitive topic, and I believe it’s high time more books like this were written. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
This book is a brave personal look at a life shaped by anxiety, and it deserves 5 stars on that basis alone.
To put our vulnerable selves out there for the world to see takes a courage which not everyone understands. To put them out there so others to find themselves in them represents deep compassion for others.
It is also a radical act of acceptance and of healing. Both for ourselves and for others who struggle with similar human frailties and who might, just for a moment, feel seen on these pages.
So if you read this and you find yourself judging the main character, I'd invite you to pause and reflect on why that's the case. And then return to the core message of this book, which is ultimately one of acceptance and of love. And consider: what are your own human frailties? How would you feel if someone embraced them fully, if only for a moment? In fact, why not use the entire book as a jumping off point to do that. After all, that's what it's about.
Any one of us could sit here in judgement and talk about things they might handle differently if this were their story, but the point is that it isn't our story. It's an invitation to experience the world through someone else's eyes.
And isn't that the greatest gift of all, to experience the world through somebody else's eyes?
Oh my goodness! Where do I even start? The insight I now have for those with anxieties is so much more, thanks to this book. I laughed a little, I wanted to slap Zara a few times but then remembered why she is the way she is, my heart broke for Zach and his pain, I wanted to throttle the life out of those who damaged Zara, I cheered on Zach, I cried for Chelsea and Isla, and I had happy tears at the end. What a beautifully written “real-life” story. If you don’t have anxiety, read this so you have a better understanding of those who do. I will definitely be reaching for the next book.
What can I say other than wow. I am incredibly impressed with the way this author has incorporated humour and a hard-hitting, unconventional love story all in one. I am excited to read more from this author. Awesome work Tiffany, thoroughly impressed.
After reading author Tiffany Andrea’s debut novel, my heart is in knots... in a very good way. I couldn’t help but be deeply invested in this unconventional love story, made more complicated by main character Zara’s paralyzing anxiety. Mental health is a very real and common struggle and I was surprised at how much I identified with the negative self-talk (yes, we really are a little broken) as frustrating as it was in holding Zara back from getting what she wanted and deserved. At the same time, I believe this means the author did a very commendable job of helping to raise awareness and lift the stigma around mental health issues.
Extra Oreos (kudos!) for the fabulously witty titles, the clever turns of phrase, the appreciated moments of humour and the heartfelt writing style. Can’t wait to see what the talented Tiffany Andrea does next.
When I started this book I was immediately taken aback at how well Tiffany wrote Zara’s anxiety. It connected me with her and her story on the very first page. All the characters in this book felt real and I found myself wanting good things for every one of them. If you want to read a compelling story with action, romance, great characters, and a glimpse into the anxious mind this book is for you!
I’ve never read a romance quite like this... and I mean that in the best way. Her anxiety was done so beautifully, so kindly, I fell for Zara immediately. Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say she totally deserved her ending!!
We're All a Little Broken is a book about anxiety, depression and dealing with trauma, and it's not an easy read. If you've never had anxiety, you may find Zara's thoughts silly, or even get angry at her, because if certain things come so easy to you, why shouldn't they be just as easy for her?
Well, that's not how it works. Living in Zara's head is exhausting. Anxiety is exhausting. You feed it once, and it wants more. You don't, and it comes back at you with regret. The author did an amazing job showing how an anxious brain works through Zara's thoughts.
Though romantic love plays an important role in the story, this is not a romance, nor a "love cures it all" kind of book. And thank God it isn't, because going that route would have ruined Zara's journey as a person.
I strongly recommend this book to people who feel broken and lonely, because really, we're all a little broken, and there's always hope. And if you have no worries at all (lucky you!), I recommend it anyway, hoping this will make you see the world from a different perspective.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Incredible. Immersive. And I know this book will stick with me for years to come.
If you have GAD, you will know this character like you know yourself. Or if you know someone with GAD, this book will be VERY enlightening. I saw myself in the heroine SO CLEARLY that it was actually frightening at times. I chose to read this one because May is MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH - and for years I have struggled with my own mental health issues (early on depression and anxiety were addressed - but turns out I suffered depression and anxiety due to ADHD...so - yeah... Now that I know, the treatment has been SO HELPFUL! #KnowThySelf...)
I will issue the trigger warnings that are in this book: Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Coping with Sexual Assault, Anxiety Disorder, Coping with a Romantic Relationship After a Sexual Assault, Anxiety Disorder, Coping with Gun Violence, Anxiety Disorder, Coping with Social Injustice for Abused Minors, Anxiety Disorder and Anxiety Disorder.
I HIGHLY recommend this book. I've already downloaded the next 2. Will be reading them shortly.
We're All a Little Broken is a fact as well as a beautifully constructed story that tenderly brings home the message NO ONE IS ALONE! Although the origin of trauma may put us in different boats, our shared emotions unite us into one.
All paddling through life, attempting to stay afloat, while navigating a way towards a common destination of healing and happiness.
TIffany Andrea lured my mind to her book with the title. But it was her characters taking hold of my heart that kept me inside the story, invested in their lives.
As someone who suffers with generalised anxiety disorder, this book had a huge impact on me. I found myself saying, ‘oh my gosh, YES!!!’ so many times. I believe that most people will be able to relate to Zara in some way and I love the way this book opens up conversations about mental health. We first meet Zara when things are changing in the life of her best friend which sparks a feeling of being left behind in Zara. The book is filled with so much hope as she meets a stranger who ‘gets’ her and wants to play an active role in her recovery. It’s a great story, well written. It’s been a long time since a book has made me shed actual tears whilst reading it and the ending is something very special. I intend to read more titles by this author and would highly recommend this book to anyone!
I loved this story. It was so well written and the humor is perfect. I could find myself empathizing with Zara so much with all the negative self-talk and to learn what she went through is so heart breaking.
This is one of the most original, refreshing love stories I've read in a long time and I'll defnitely be reading more of this authors work!
I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Sad and uplifting in equal measure. I feel as though I was reading my life and have not been touched by a book in such a powerful way in such a long time. Masterful storytelling. And that cover! Beautiful. I will be adding the next two instalments to my list without hesitation.
I didnt remember the last time I cried so much from reading a book. It was probably my Danielle Steel phase when I was younger. There were so many situations that I was able to relate to that made me cry and laugh. I loved that there were short chapters. Short chapters are big for me. Most chapters had a cliffhanger...that caused me to say, "okay, one more chapter" which I did say often with this book. The titles of the chapters were pretty cool too.
The author did a great job with the flow of writing. It was an easy read and I was able to follow the story well. I also loved that the author incorporated the title of the book into the book. It's a little thing, but I always liked that. I feel it brings the book together as a whole. I felt the story was a bit predictable, but even so, the ending was still satisfying.
Overall, I read it in 3 sittings. I would recommend this book & I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
Words can’t express how special of a story this was to me. It was also made better due to having had the honour of getting to know the author via Bookstagram for which I am grateful. This story is both raw and oh so truthful in more ways than one, tackling difficult subjects and compelling characters all while demonstrating a true writing talent from this author. It wasn’t long before I found myself staying up late just to find out what happens next. This book made be laugh, made me cry, and feel all the emotions which at times came close to home. This author should be oh so proud of what they have created as they accomplished a goal that many writers dream of - to make their readers feel something through their writing. I could go on and on about this book, but instead I’ll just give it my HIGHEST recommendation possible and encourage everyone to read it. You won’t be disappointed!
Tiffany did an amazing job showing what its like to be in the head of someone with anxiety like Zara had.
While I couldn't relate to the chain of events that happen in the book, everything she thought the entire time was spot on for how my anxiety has been in the past.
Despite the heavy topics, I got quite a few laughs as clearly Tiffany has my kind of humor. Which was great to see amongst the story that follows someones tough journey in life.
Also, I adored the chapter names.
Personally, I like to fly blind into books as much as possible, but for others, there were things in this book that are sensitive topics. But it is a great read, and has me looking forward to future books by this author.
I was immediately drawn into this book and found it hard to stop reading. Zara is such a relatable character. It’s like some of her lines were taken directly from my mind and I’ve never highlighted more on my kindle in my life. 🤣🥺
Zach is amazing, and love that he and Zara could bond so much over their emotions and struggles. It only made them stronger.
Having read the novella already, I obviously knew where the story was headed, but that didn’t make it any less satisfying. I loved everything about this book. This was overall an emotional, heartfelt, and heartwarming story. I loved it so much and can’t wait to read more. 💗
This book is a home run for Tiffany. I couldn't put it down. Zara is so well written, she just leaps off the pages and all I want to do is give her a big hug. I'm thankful for the insight into what it must be like to live with anxiety and it's eye opening. If anyone out there is living with this condition then I salute you. Zach is my newest book boyfriend. Tiffany if Zach is anything like your husband then you are one lucky woman. I loved the ending. I wanted more. And I'm so glad Patrick got what was coming to him. Definitely recommend. It's a book that will be sticking with me for a while.
I really enjoyed this book. I really empathised with all of the characters having been on both sides of the mental health fence, a supporter but also an anxiety sufferer. It's a well written story which keeps your attention all the way through. I occasionally found the sheer amount and topic of the inner monologue quite jarring, but I understand why it was done and didn't detract from the overall story.
This was a wonderful book. I feel as if Zara and I are kindred spirits. If you suffer from anxiety or are interested in knowing what it is like, this book is spot on. Not only does it tackle mental health issues, but it is a sweet love story as well. I don't want to give away the ending...let's say it left me with a smile.
We're All A little Broken by Tiffany Andrea tackles some tough issues. The main character, Zara, struggles with anxiety caused by trauma. When her best friend gets engaged, she starts to question everything about her life. After several repeating run-ins with a handsome man, she left wondering if she's met the man of her dreams, and amps up her anxiety tenfold.
As a person with anxiety, I found this story somewhat uncomfortable. I felt like the author was very familiar with anxiety, In fact, I felt sympathy with the main characters. I found myself skipping over the paragraphs where the main character focuses on her anxiety-filled self-dialogue because it hit a little close to home. Some parts of this story caused me to have a visceral reaction. The author did a brilliant job of capturing the feelings of panic a person with anxiety goes through, and the self-doubt and loathing.
I stuck with it because the story was so good. I loved how the author quickly built the story and I was caught up in the drama with her co-worker (no spoilers, but man does it get good). I thought the whole premise of the story was a great way to approach a romance. Nothing seemed contrived or made up. It was very believable.
I did wish the story was a little spicier. We don't really get a payoff, besides a closed-door scene. I really wanted to see these two cherish each other.
I would recommend this book to anyone seeking a romantic story that is different and unique. It was a good and enjoyable read
What I liked: This seems to be a very realistic portrayal of anxiety and how it consumes the everyday life of even those others perceive to be ‘normal’ and ‘together’ and ‘coping.’ A true and stark warning to all that nobody ever truly knows what's going on in someone else's head, heart, or life. I enjoyed that there are twists and turns in this text that are not predicted before reading; foreshadowed, yes, but subtly. You don’t feel as though you know what’s coming until towards the end of the story when Zara’s life begins to feel more stable. Again, this seems to reflect the constant state of anxiety sufferers must feel.
What I thought could be better: It’s a tad short for a text that includes so much action and so many plot points. I’d have happily sat and read deeper emotive language that of the sensations of the protagonist at certain points of the text and would have also enjoyed more figurative language than literal in the setting descriptions. I couldn’t truly picture all the environments Zara was in, but that did not detract from the story or overall experience. I’m probably just being pedantic and finding something to say.
I thank Tiffany Andrea for a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Wow! What a book! I can understand that this might be a bit difficult for someone with anxiety to read but it is so worth it! This book will resonate with anyone who has ever felt unworthy and unsure of their life choices. Zara is a loyal and dedicated woman who doesn't feel she deserves happiness in her life,let alone does she expect it to come in the form of a handsome man that runs into her in an unexpected way. Zachary is sweet and an overall good guy who has had his fair share of bad experiences. How can someone be so in tune to Zara's needs and fears? I have to say that I love Zara's friends Tyler and Quinn,as well as her boss and parents. I found myself rooting for Zara and hoping that she would be able to thrive instead of just survive. I was also very happy when she told Zach's secretary off! (Read the book and you'll see what I'm talking about).
I fell in love with this book immediately, from the first page. The way it’s written makes it such a pleasure to read! Some of Zara’s lines (sometimes her own and sometimes those delivered by her anxiety) made me want to laugh out loud, and I love books that do it.
And some parts of the story made me want to cry. A lot.
I’m sure that people suffering from anxiety will relate to what Zara is going through. And it’ll also be very helpful to those who have friends or family members with anxiety.
The ending was perfect.
Oh, and I absolutely love the title.
Basically, there wan't anything I didn't like about this book. It’s just flawless.