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Broken
Callie Montgomery should feel happy with her life. A rising career, a business inherited from her father and a loving family surrounding her. Besides, she’s in a much better place than a decade ago, so she should be grateful, right?
But everything's not always as it seems. Appearances can be deceptive. Unless that is, you’re faced with the return of the woman who can read you better than anyone.
Jackie Taylor thought she had found the woman she was going to spend forever with, until one day, she walked away without explanation. But twelve years later, life has dragged her back into the orbit of Callie Montgomery. She can see that something is plaguing the younger woman’s mind, but is she close enough to help her through it? And will she get the answers she’s craved for so many years?
When the woman who left you broken is the one struggling to hold herself together, what choice does she have but to be a friend? Especially when friends may not be where it stops…
But everything's not always as it seems. Appearances can be deceptive. Unless that is, you’re faced with the return of the woman who can read you better than anyone.
Jackie Taylor thought she had found the woman she was going to spend forever with, until one day, she walked away without explanation. But twelve years later, life has dragged her back into the orbit of Callie Montgomery. She can see that something is plaguing the younger woman’s mind, but is she close enough to help her through it? And will she get the answers she’s craved for so many years?
When the woman who left you broken is the one struggling to hold herself together, what choice does she have but to be a friend? Especially when friends may not be where it stops…
267 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2022
148 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 16, 2022
First of all I almost can’t believe this is Ami Spencer’s first novel. I mean I know every author improves novel by novel and I’m sure it will be the same for Ami. But starting your writing career with a book like this one is just wow. Adding the most perfect cover tops it off.
Where do I start? At the beginning we switch a bit between the past and the present. This gave me a good sense of what circumstances lead to the present. Because several years ago Callie and Jackie were happy until the day Callie left Jackie back with a broken heart (or maybe more she left each other with a broken heart).
Ami did the whole switching back and forth in a great way. I never struggled to know where I am. Of course I can only speak for me and it’s totally possible that others don’t like switching in time, but I promise you, it’s totally worth it. And the longer the story goes on, more and more will get revealed and things make even more sense. Callie is such a complex character. Her experiences in life left deep scars and anxiety is never far away. Jackie was the one who gave her security and most of all love. But like I already mentioned one day something made Callie run.
When they meet again in the company Callie inherited from her father and she is a senior partner, both don‘t really know at first how to act around each other. Both have aged over the time. I mean of course they did. Lol But I mean they changed & both are in a different point in their life. Callie being only in her early 20s when they were together for the first time and Jackie being 15 years older. 12 years between then and today just will have an impact.
But what definitely has not changed is their love for each other. Step by step they form a friendship and Jackie slowly becomes the person again for Callie she once was. And these were the scenes that made me fall in love with Jackie. Her unconditional support and understanding is incredible. Callie’s background on the other hand reminded me a lot of my wife’s and my heart literally broke for her several times. That’s why I know what Jackie does for Callie is so important and it’s often the little things that mean the most. I don’t wanna give away too much, really you just have to read and see what I mean. I already know I’m not the only one who will fall for Jackie and the queue will be a long one. Lol
Another thing I loved in this story was how they tackled things together and in the end how they bring out the best of each other. Often we only realise how strong we really are when someone puts the mirror in front of us and that’s how I felt what happened in this story. Callie is so much stronger than she always believed & with Jackie’s help she starts to realise that.
Oh and if anyone is wondering, their chemistry is amazing too and there some really sexy scenes in it. 🥵☺️
There are also some great family dynamics (including several disagreements) and some other side drama. But no worries there is nothing over the top that will make you wanna throw the book in a corner. Lol I assume you won’t love all the side characters, though. But that’s how it has to be and shows that Ami created them in a fantastic way.
One side character I loved was Annie, Callie’s mum. Her love and support are unconditionally and my heart was filled with all her love.
When I got to the end I was once more wondering about this being a debut novel, because seriously it is amazing. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for what’s coming next. 🥰
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
Where do I start? At the beginning we switch a bit between the past and the present. This gave me a good sense of what circumstances lead to the present. Because several years ago Callie and Jackie were happy until the day Callie left Jackie back with a broken heart (or maybe more she left each other with a broken heart).
Ami did the whole switching back and forth in a great way. I never struggled to know where I am. Of course I can only speak for me and it’s totally possible that others don’t like switching in time, but I promise you, it’s totally worth it. And the longer the story goes on, more and more will get revealed and things make even more sense. Callie is such a complex character. Her experiences in life left deep scars and anxiety is never far away. Jackie was the one who gave her security and most of all love. But like I already mentioned one day something made Callie run.
When they meet again in the company Callie inherited from her father and she is a senior partner, both don‘t really know at first how to act around each other. Both have aged over the time. I mean of course they did. Lol But I mean they changed & both are in a different point in their life. Callie being only in her early 20s when they were together for the first time and Jackie being 15 years older. 12 years between then and today just will have an impact.
But what definitely has not changed is their love for each other. Step by step they form a friendship and Jackie slowly becomes the person again for Callie she once was. And these were the scenes that made me fall in love with Jackie. Her unconditional support and understanding is incredible. Callie’s background on the other hand reminded me a lot of my wife’s and my heart literally broke for her several times. That’s why I know what Jackie does for Callie is so important and it’s often the little things that mean the most. I don’t wanna give away too much, really you just have to read and see what I mean. I already know I’m not the only one who will fall for Jackie and the queue will be a long one. Lol
Another thing I loved in this story was how they tackled things together and in the end how they bring out the best of each other. Often we only realise how strong we really are when someone puts the mirror in front of us and that’s how I felt what happened in this story. Callie is so much stronger than she always believed & with Jackie’s help she starts to realise that.
Oh and if anyone is wondering, their chemistry is amazing too and there some really sexy scenes in it. 🥵☺️
There are also some great family dynamics (including several disagreements) and some other side drama. But no worries there is nothing over the top that will make you wanna throw the book in a corner. Lol I assume you won’t love all the side characters, though. But that’s how it has to be and shows that Ami created them in a fantastic way.
One side character I loved was Annie, Callie’s mum. Her love and support are unconditionally and my heart was filled with all her love.
When I got to the end I was once more wondering about this being a debut novel, because seriously it is amazing. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for what’s coming next. 🥰
I received an advance reader copy from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2022
Wow. What a fantastic debut book.
I enjoyed the age-gap romance very much. The two MCs have great chemistry together. But there‘re multiple hurdles to overcome to be really together in a relationship.
I loved the very complex character of Callie who hasn‘t had an easy life so far and is struggling with massive anxiety attacks. And Jackie is such a sweetheart and so loving and understanding towards Callie.
Also the sex scenes were really hot 🔥
Very well written. I‘m looking forward to more books from Ami in the near future.
Deserves more that 5 stars. Highly recommend.
I enjoyed the age-gap romance very much. The two MCs have great chemistry together. But there‘re multiple hurdles to overcome to be really together in a relationship.
I loved the very complex character of Callie who hasn‘t had an easy life so far and is struggling with massive anxiety attacks. And Jackie is such a sweetheart and so loving and understanding towards Callie.
Also the sex scenes were really hot 🔥
Very well written. I‘m looking forward to more books from Ami in the near future.
Deserves more that 5 stars. Highly recommend.
July 28, 2022
This is a pretty ok debut, but it just didn’t deliver what I was expecting.
This is a second chance romance and an age gap. In the first few chapters of the book we find out how old Callie is, but it takes a lot of time before we know exactly how old Jackie is.
It doesn’t really in the grand scheme of things but for me it was very annoying to read about the younger and the older woman, as this happens quite regularly in the first few chapters, and not knowing their exact ages. To me it was almost like referencing a teen and a grandmother, not great.
With a self published debut you’d expect some issues, and they were there, along with some other things that could have been avoided. I don’t mind the newly bumps, but the things I did mind took away from the enjoyment of the story, or even fully engaging with it. For example dialogue, it would start somewhere and there’d be a reply from another character but it wouldn’t make any sense. Either because there was no question or because it just seemed super random. It didn’t read like conversations, it was odd. And it wasn’t just the dialogue that took unexpected and inexplicable turns, also the story/setting and not in a good way. I was oostkant times over, thinking I skipped a line and going back, but I never missed anything, it just wasn’t there. The book could definitely have done with some extra eyes to eliminate these type of things.
The best thing about the bookies the chemistry and connection between Callie and Julia, but even that was hard to enjoy for me because of the before mentioned issues.
I’m sure there are plenty people out there who will get more enjoyment from reading this book.
This is a second chance romance and an age gap. In the first few chapters of the book we find out how old Callie is, but it takes a lot of time before we know exactly how old Jackie is.
It doesn’t really in the grand scheme of things but for me it was very annoying to read about the younger and the older woman, as this happens quite regularly in the first few chapters, and not knowing their exact ages. To me it was almost like referencing a teen and a grandmother, not great.
With a self published debut you’d expect some issues, and they were there, along with some other things that could have been avoided. I don’t mind the newly bumps, but the things I did mind took away from the enjoyment of the story, or even fully engaging with it. For example dialogue, it would start somewhere and there’d be a reply from another character but it wouldn’t make any sense. Either because there was no question or because it just seemed super random. It didn’t read like conversations, it was odd. And it wasn’t just the dialogue that took unexpected and inexplicable turns, also the story/setting and not in a good way. I was oostkant times over, thinking I skipped a line and going back, but I never missed anything, it just wasn’t there. The book could definitely have done with some extra eyes to eliminate these type of things.
The best thing about the bookies the chemistry and connection between Callie and Julia, but even that was hard to enjoy for me because of the before mentioned issues.
I’m sure there are plenty people out there who will get more enjoyment from reading this book.
August 3, 2022
3.5 stars - Jackie is a saint
After reading this book these are my impressions
-anxiety
-12 years
-seriously, someone contact the pope re:Jackie
All kidding aside, this is a decent debut. It’s possible this book just isn’t for me. The dynamics just were not my jam. Also, I might be a heartless and unfeeling b-word. 🤷♀️
After reading this book these are my impressions
-anxiety
-12 years
-seriously, someone contact the pope re:Jackie
All kidding aside, this is a decent debut. It’s possible this book just isn’t for me. The dynamics just were not my jam. Also, I might be a heartless and unfeeling b-word. 🤷♀️
August 3, 2022
3.8 stars
Age-gap second chance romance.
I have to say the first part of the story got immediately my interest. The switching back from present to past was adding a depth to it, and I wanted to know more about it. I wanted the angst of the moment when the relationship was put to a break. Some of those feelings were explored, but I think there was so much more into it.
It's a promising debut and I can see a lot of potential.
I relate a lot to Callie and some lines were quite hard to read, and the constant of people worrying about you... feeling that you are one step to fall again into the abyss.
What makes someone weak, and what makes them strong. Does it even matter? Is it being strong only when you can be a "normal" person? When does the whole "I'm sorry for being the way I am, for being a burden, for being weak" stop?
Anxiety. There's a past, a present and there might be always a future in the life of some of us.
There are things in life that scarred you, that you will always remember perfectly as they happened yesterday. Sometimes, you can process them, and look at them as they shaped your present. Sometimes, they haunt you as they try to pull you back to your past.
It's a costant battle to stay above the surface, but it's easier when you have someone that really loves you next to you.
To be able to let someone see your scars, the whole of you, it's precious.
I'm so happy Callie has Jackie and vice-versa...
The whole time I was reading the book, I thought the title meant something that was right in front of my eyes. But I was surprised to know it wasn't like that, and the revelation was beautiful.
Broken deals with some heavy themes, and has some really hideous characters, but it also has some very tender and heartfelt scenes and not to mention... 100% steamy ones.
Ps. I love Annie.
Age-gap second chance romance.
I have to say the first part of the story got immediately my interest. The switching back from present to past was adding a depth to it, and I wanted to know more about it. I wanted the angst of the moment when the relationship was put to a break. Some of those feelings were explored, but I think there was so much more into it.
It's a promising debut and I can see a lot of potential.
I relate a lot to Callie and some lines were quite hard to read, and the constant of people worrying about you... feeling that you are one step to fall again into the abyss.
What makes someone weak, and what makes them strong. Does it even matter? Is it being strong only when you can be a "normal" person? When does the whole "I'm sorry for being the way I am, for being a burden, for being weak" stop?
Anxiety. There's a past, a present and there might be always a future in the life of some of us.
There are things in life that scarred you, that you will always remember perfectly as they happened yesterday. Sometimes, you can process them, and look at them as they shaped your present. Sometimes, they haunt you as they try to pull you back to your past.
It's a costant battle to stay above the surface, but it's easier when you have someone that really loves you next to you.
To be able to let someone see your scars, the whole of you, it's precious.
I'm so happy Callie has Jackie and vice-versa...
The whole time I was reading the book, I thought the title meant something that was right in front of my eyes. But I was surprised to know it wasn't like that, and the revelation was beautiful.
Broken deals with some heavy themes, and has some really hideous characters, but it also has some very tender and heartfelt scenes and not to mention... 100% steamy ones.
Ps. I love Annie.
July 21, 2022
Author Ami Spencer
Broken
MC Callie Montgomery & Jackie Taylor
The story opens up with Callie dealing with her anxiety and fear of coming out. She’s worried her whole world would be turned upside down. Just when she thought she was able to calm her self down, she runs into her past. The one woman she has always loved, but could not handle being in a relationship with.
Callie and Jackie loved each other. It was literally falling off the pages, the way Jackie could feel every emotion was a true testament of love. Even after all of the misunderstanding and the years apart, you could not deny the love that was still there.
There was secret that had to come out, so everyone could heal. Family can sometimes make life hard but the love between Callie and Jackie was pure inspiration .
This book was a wonderful debut with a lot of emotion. This is my first book by author, this debut is very impressive and attention to detail was spectacular. I highly recommend the book. It’s available on Amazon KU five stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 1, 2023
I don't know what to say here, without giving you spoilers. All I can say is this was an exeptionally moving, brilliant book.
December 1, 2025
This was an okay read, and I don't want to be too harsh since it is a debut novel, but Callie and Jackie’s love story leaned a bit too much into melodrama for my taste.
They meet one night, date for only a couple of weeks, and then Callie ends things for personal reasons. When Jackie shows up twelve years later as a new hire at Callie’s company, we are meant to believe that neither of them ever stopped loving the other. I had a hard time buying into that, especially since their original relationship was so brief.
Then the added layers of workplace complications, family tensions, and ex wife drama made the story feel even more over the top.
And don't get me wrong, there is a lot to appreciate in a debut. The mental health representation in the main character is wonderful to see, and the story leans into well loved tropes like age gap, workplace romance, and second chance. I know many readers have connected deeply with this book. It just did not hit quite the same way for me.
They meet one night, date for only a couple of weeks, and then Callie ends things for personal reasons. When Jackie shows up twelve years later as a new hire at Callie’s company, we are meant to believe that neither of them ever stopped loving the other. I had a hard time buying into that, especially since their original relationship was so brief.
Then the added layers of workplace complications, family tensions, and ex wife drama made the story feel even more over the top.
And don't get me wrong, there is a lot to appreciate in a debut. The mental health representation in the main character is wonderful to see, and the story leans into well loved tropes like age gap, workplace romance, and second chance. I know many readers have connected deeply with this book. It just did not hit quite the same way for me.
May 8, 2024
Let me start off by saying this book had me in mf tears 😭
Jackie works for Callie’s dad company and they fall for each other. Callie has bad anxiety due to ALOT and it was so sad to read. She then leaves Jackie one day and they meet again 12 years later.
Callie was such a sad but yet such a strong person. She had soo much going on in her head that she dealt with alone. Jackie was my favorite. She was so gentle and caring. I absolutely loved this book. Chemistry was amazing, angst had me in my feels and the spice was giving 🤌🏽
If u wanna cry, read this 😂
Jackie works for Callie’s dad company and they fall for each other. Callie has bad anxiety due to ALOT and it was so sad to read. She then leaves Jackie one day and they meet again 12 years later.
Callie was such a sad but yet such a strong person. She had soo much going on in her head that she dealt with alone. Jackie was my favorite. She was so gentle and caring. I absolutely loved this book. Chemistry was amazing, angst had me in my feels and the spice was giving 🤌🏽
If u wanna cry, read this 😂
July 16, 2022
beautiful
Strong, emotionally driven with constant fragile and comforting support. Love feels, safe and trusting. We all need this kind of love to flourish and grow.
Strong, emotionally driven with constant fragile and comforting support. Love feels, safe and trusting. We all need this kind of love to flourish and grow.
August 3, 2022
3.5
A nice debut novel!
This is an age-gap, second-chance, and workplace romance. I thought the setting was refreshing. We don’t see a lot of age-gap, workplace romance where the younger one was the boss lol. The first few chapters were pretty well-written, and the pacing was good. But from the middle of the book, the dialogue starts getting repetitive. I’m still looking forward to this author’s future books.
A nice debut novel!
This is an age-gap, second-chance, and workplace romance. I thought the setting was refreshing. We don’t see a lot of age-gap, workplace romance where the younger one was the boss lol. The first few chapters were pretty well-written, and the pacing was good. But from the middle of the book, the dialogue starts getting repetitive. I’m still looking forward to this author’s future books.
April 15, 2024
3.5 Stars
If I consider just this book, just this story, the characters are layered and the character development is realistic. The entirety of the plot was sensible and the pace was comfortable.
However, Broken has a ghost of the author’s other book The Storm Within Her. The similarities in tone of the story, main characters and conflict.
If I consider just this book, just this story, the characters are layered and the character development is realistic. The entirety of the plot was sensible and the pace was comfortable.
However, Broken has a ghost of the author’s other book The Storm Within Her. The similarities in tone of the story, main characters and conflict.
August 5, 2022
Good Book
This is my first book by the author and I really enjoyed it. I liked that the main characters had challenges and were not perfect. I recommend this book and this author.
This is my first book by the author and I really enjoyed it. I liked that the main characters had challenges and were not perfect. I recommend this book and this author.
December 13, 2023
Very moving!
Callie finds her world turned upside down when Jackie comes back into her life. Having walked away without explanation years ago when Callie needed her most, Jackie knows something isn’t quite right with Callie again, but she doesn’t know if helping this time is going to answer questions she has from the past.
There was a very deep emotional connection in this story between the characters and the reader. Ami has really captured Callie and Jackie in a way that means you can easily empathise with their situations, both past and present, and get deeper meaning and understanding of them, their actions, and their thoughts. Given all Callie had been through, which is revealed slowly throughout the story when something happens to shed light on the past, I really admired her strength. Not everyone would have been able to handle things as well as she was despite everything she is currently going through with her career and life.
Not much was revealed about Jackie at first but I somehow knew they’d be justifiable explanations for what had happened between them in the past, and it was obvious from the second Jackie walked back into her life that something special existed between her and Callie. Their connection was strong and they easily picked up without too much tension or awkwardness between them, even if they felt differently about it. I was so glad Jackie was there for Callie this time and they got that second chance to work on what was very special between them.
The whole story, from Callie and Jackie’s past and present relationship, to their individual stories were so emotional and I really felt a connection with them personally. The story focuses importantly on addressing mental health and how everyone just needs support and love, and no matter how bad things get are deserving of the same happiness as everyone else.
Callie finds her world turned upside down when Jackie comes back into her life. Having walked away without explanation years ago when Callie needed her most, Jackie knows something isn’t quite right with Callie again, but she doesn’t know if helping this time is going to answer questions she has from the past.
There was a very deep emotional connection in this story between the characters and the reader. Ami has really captured Callie and Jackie in a way that means you can easily empathise with their situations, both past and present, and get deeper meaning and understanding of them, their actions, and their thoughts. Given all Callie had been through, which is revealed slowly throughout the story when something happens to shed light on the past, I really admired her strength. Not everyone would have been able to handle things as well as she was despite everything she is currently going through with her career and life.
Not much was revealed about Jackie at first but I somehow knew they’d be justifiable explanations for what had happened between them in the past, and it was obvious from the second Jackie walked back into her life that something special existed between her and Callie. Their connection was strong and they easily picked up without too much tension or awkwardness between them, even if they felt differently about it. I was so glad Jackie was there for Callie this time and they got that second chance to work on what was very special between them.
The whole story, from Callie and Jackie’s past and present relationship, to their individual stories were so emotional and I really felt a connection with them personally. The story focuses importantly on addressing mental health and how everyone just needs support and love, and no matter how bad things get are deserving of the same happiness as everyone else.
July 16, 2022
so good
I loved this book! Ami captured the emotions perfectly. Definitely a must read. I can’t wait for more from her!
I loved this book! Ami captured the emotions perfectly. Definitely a must read. I can’t wait for more from her!
October 14, 2022
"And as much as I worked to get back to something even resemebling the old me, there was always a piece missing. A piece you held and put back the day you kissed me again for the first time.”
4 stars. This was a fantastic debut! Very heartfelt and emotional. I loved the mental health and anxiety rep and found it to be tastefully done. Callie was such a relatable character and I loved her growth and development throughout the story. Jackie was wonderful as well. I really liked the romance between the two of them and found their chemistry to be beautiful. However, my main gripe with this book is that Jackie was really lacking as a character. She felt like she existed just to help Callie and I don’t think we ever got to really know her which was unfortunate. Other than that this was a really raw and beautiful story.
4 stars. This was a fantastic debut! Very heartfelt and emotional. I loved the mental health and anxiety rep and found it to be tastefully done. Callie was such a relatable character and I loved her growth and development throughout the story. Jackie was wonderful as well. I really liked the romance between the two of them and found their chemistry to be beautiful. However, my main gripe with this book is that Jackie was really lacking as a character. She felt like she existed just to help Callie and I don’t think we ever got to really know her which was unfortunate. Other than that this was a really raw and beautiful story.
October 10, 2022
Surprised at Role Reversal
I think this is the first age-gap romance where I felt like the older partner was equally invested. I enjoyed the story and the foray into the situation that caused them to grow apart.
I think this is the first age-gap romance where I felt like the older partner was equally invested. I enjoyed the story and the foray into the situation that caused them to grow apart.
October 13, 2022
Monumentally,but civil
It not the grand gesture you need to show you care. It's the civil and the right now gestures that sometimes proves how much loves prevails. A slow burn to welcome past to a love Unconditionally.
It not the grand gesture you need to show you care. It's the civil and the right now gestures that sometimes proves how much loves prevails. A slow burn to welcome past to a love Unconditionally.
February 25, 2024
this was fine till like 50% and then it went like the other one did and just went so downhill so fast
April 24, 2024
loved this one
Follow this love story of Callie and Jackie has been beautiful and such a smooth read. I really like it and probably will read it again. Thanks Ami.
Follow this love story of Callie and Jackie has been beautiful and such a smooth read. I really like it and probably will read it again. Thanks Ami.
August 30, 2022
Age-Gap | Second Chance Romance | Mental Health
Ratings (out of 5 stars)
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Story
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Main Characters
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Supporting Characters
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Enjoyability
🔥 🔥 🔥 Sex
Callie struggles with anxiety and mental illness. I think that was portrayed well, but I didn't feel like I got to see as much personal growth as I would have liked to see.
Jackie seemed like a saint at first. She handled Callie's anxiety so wonderfully that even I felt soothed. As the book progresses, Jackie feels more and more like a martyr. She seems to give and give and give and not have any needs of her own. I think in the end that is where this falls flat for me a bit. Jackie serves too much of a caretaker role without really showing the toll that can take on someone or exploring how that affects Jackie. She's one of our MCs but feels more like a side character.
The story had some really great moments that made me feel things. There was laughter, and there was pain. Overall it was a good story. I probably wouldn't reread it, but it was entertaining enough to spend a few hours on.
Ratings (out of 5 stars)
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Story
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Main Characters
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Supporting Characters
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Enjoyability
🔥 🔥 🔥 Sex
Callie struggles with anxiety and mental illness. I think that was portrayed well, but I didn't feel like I got to see as much personal growth as I would have liked to see.
Jackie seemed like a saint at first. She handled Callie's anxiety so wonderfully that even I felt soothed. As the book progresses, Jackie feels more and more like a martyr. She seems to give and give and give and not have any needs of her own. I think in the end that is where this falls flat for me a bit. Jackie serves too much of a caretaker role without really showing the toll that can take on someone or exploring how that affects Jackie. She's one of our MCs but feels more like a side character.
The story had some really great moments that made me feel things. There was laughter, and there was pain. Overall it was a good story. I probably wouldn't reread it, but it was entertaining enough to spend a few hours on.
July 22, 2022
Broken is how we meet Callie and we get to ride along as she goes through the process of becoming not just ‘un-broken’ but truly happy. Callie Montgomery has had so much abuse in her life, both physical and phycological, that is no wonder she struggles with self worth. Having been given the reigns of the family business, her life is thrown into a tailspin when Jackie Taylor takes a position with the company. 12 years after she first fell in love and ran away, Callie is surprised by Jackie’s care and attention. Do yourself a favour a read this book, it has a great story line, likeable characters and some really steamy parts. A really solid debut from Ami Spencer, excited for things to come from her. And a special mention for the cover!
July 29, 2022
Loved it!
As someone who suffers from anxiety I understood exactly what Callie was going through. We need more Jackie's in the world for all those looking for love and understanding.
As someone who suffers from anxiety I understood exactly what Callie was going through. We need more Jackie's in the world for all those looking for love and understanding.
January 15, 2023
TLDR: A barebones plot with very little moving the story forward.
Before I launch into criticisms, I want to commend the author for tackling heavy themes. I rejoice when mental health is incorporated into a story. That said, it's impossible for me to ignore the many editorial issues weighing the book down.
For starters, the story is very light on plot. At 70% completion I couldn't discern what the climax might be because so little was happening. And it was difficult for me to keep reading because my mind would wander off. If I'm reading a good book, I have to know what is going to happen next so my eyes are glued to the page. I become an insomniac that doesn't eat. Unfortunately, this story doesn't have enough tension to pull my eyes to the next page. That doesn't make some of the themes less tragic, just less interesting.
I was frequently confused with regards to which character was speaking in dialogue or taking action in a scene. Unlike most fiction, dialogue is routinely paired, in paragraph, with the character observing the dialogue rather than the one speaking it. And when that dialogue is absent a clear indicator like, "Callie said," it becomes difficult to pin down what is happening and to who.
Further issues include improper grammar and sentence structure. More than once, second person is employed instead of third person. And transitions between scenes are stilted.
Before I launch into criticisms, I want to commend the author for tackling heavy themes. I rejoice when mental health is incorporated into a story. That said, it's impossible for me to ignore the many editorial issues weighing the book down.
For starters, the story is very light on plot. At 70% completion I couldn't discern what the climax might be because so little was happening. And it was difficult for me to keep reading because my mind would wander off. If I'm reading a good book, I have to know what is going to happen next so my eyes are glued to the page. I become an insomniac that doesn't eat. Unfortunately, this story doesn't have enough tension to pull my eyes to the next page. That doesn't make some of the themes less tragic, just less interesting.
I was frequently confused with regards to which character was speaking in dialogue or taking action in a scene. Unlike most fiction, dialogue is routinely paired, in paragraph, with the character observing the dialogue rather than the one speaking it. And when that dialogue is absent a clear indicator like, "Callie said," it becomes difficult to pin down what is happening and to who.
Further issues include improper grammar and sentence structure. More than once, second person is employed instead of third person. And transitions between scenes are stilted.
September 8, 2022
this is an age gap romance! so if you don't like it all, don't read it.
sadly couldn't connect to the characters or the story at all
- also one thing that bothered me is that *minor spoiler* you don't get to know both their ages at the beginning, only the age of one of them which might not be an issue for other people but i'd have liked to know right away to be honest
sadly couldn't connect to the characters or the story at all
- also one thing that bothered me is that *minor spoiler* you don't get to know both their ages at the beginning, only the age of one of them which might not be an issue for other people but i'd have liked to know right away to be honest
August 24, 2023
Love is Strength
Well done book! The anxiety rep was amazingly written and heart wrenching to read. Jackie is so amazing, just a wonderful support and genuine person that calms and uplifts those around her, especially the one she loves. There’s age gap, forgiveness, support, growth, communication, so much love and some nicely done spice.
Well done book! The anxiety rep was amazingly written and heart wrenching to read. Jackie is so amazing, just a wonderful support and genuine person that calms and uplifts those around her, especially the one she loves. There’s age gap, forgiveness, support, growth, communication, so much love and some nicely done spice.
February 6, 2024
Absolutely loved this book 🧡
May 18, 2023
The whole arc can be defined as a codependent relationship btwn an emotional mess of younger lesbian and an emotional martyr of an older lesbian. Tada, saved you some 250 pages of reading.
Disclaimer: This is gonna read as hypercritical of the anxiety aspect of the book and maybe, yeah. Bcs I have a metric shit tonne of anxiety, had frequent panic attacks until I'd been in therapy for years, gained skills to help deescalate myself, and found the right combination of medications. Yes mental health needs representation in media but this felt icky to read. The whole time, Callie had no personality besides anxiety (and art I guess).
Honestly I'm surprised I didn't DNF this book. This one is a bit annoying bcs I know that the premise is that "something is bothering Callie" but the anxiety arc was frustrating as fuck. I really tried to not be too judgmental but it felt too much like the author is doing a victim complex with Callie and boo hoo she's not managing her anxiety or trauma or whatever, and starting off the book with no context of her having a panic attack (like why tf she's having one, etc) just doesn't set it up in a way that I'm comfortable with.
"[Callie] wasn't sure how she'd coped without [Jackie] for over a decade." I'm not trying to be too critical bcs this is like the first book I've read with a second chance gay couple but like, the codependence ain't it. I read another review that said that Callie just takes whatever Jackie can offer but that's all Jackie does, is just give and give and seemingly needs nothing in return. It's kinda ruining the age gap for me a bit bcs it seems like Jackie is being pigeonholed into a savior complex trope while Callie is just entirely falling apart. LikeCallie's not entirely wrong that she's not contributing anything to the relationship, which just kinda feels like a slap in the face bcs I've been in relationships where I just feel like I take and take and I'm left wondering.. is she even still seeing a therapist? Taking steps to improve herself and her confidence? I just see someone who's drowning in it and yes that resonates so hard but I can't get on with the savior older woman and broken younger woman thing going on.
There were tons of small typos and weird spellings that are technically correct but also irregular (focussed instead of focused, lent instead of leaned). Just little things but it was really distracting. But, take it with a grain of salt as an US reader, I'm unsure if some of these are UK spellings.
The conflict in this book was weak. It all felt artificially placed and insincere just to add tension to the story.
Final thots: I thought the sex was hot but all my aforementioned problems still stand.
Disclaimer: This is gonna read as hypercritical of the anxiety aspect of the book and maybe, yeah. Bcs I have a metric shit tonne of anxiety, had frequent panic attacks until I'd been in therapy for years, gained skills to help deescalate myself, and found the right combination of medications. Yes mental health needs representation in media but this felt icky to read. The whole time, Callie had no personality besides anxiety (and art I guess).
Honestly I'm surprised I didn't DNF this book. This one is a bit annoying bcs I know that the premise is that "something is bothering Callie" but the anxiety arc was frustrating as fuck. I really tried to not be too judgmental but it felt too much like the author is doing a victim complex with Callie and boo hoo she's not managing her anxiety or trauma or whatever, and starting off the book with no context of her having a panic attack (like why tf she's having one, etc) just doesn't set it up in a way that I'm comfortable with.
"[Callie] wasn't sure how she'd coped without [Jackie] for over a decade." I'm not trying to be too critical bcs this is like the first book I've read with a second chance gay couple but like, the codependence ain't it. I read another review that said that Callie just takes whatever Jackie can offer but that's all Jackie does, is just give and give and seemingly needs nothing in return. It's kinda ruining the age gap for me a bit bcs it seems like Jackie is being pigeonholed into a savior complex trope while Callie is just entirely falling apart. LikeCallie's not entirely wrong that she's not contributing anything to the relationship, which just kinda feels like a slap in the face bcs I've been in relationships where I just feel like I take and take and I'm left wondering.. is she even still seeing a therapist? Taking steps to improve herself and her confidence? I just see someone who's drowning in it and yes that resonates so hard but I can't get on with the savior older woman and broken younger woman thing going on.
There were tons of small typos and weird spellings that are technically correct but also irregular (focussed instead of focused, lent instead of leaned). Just little things but it was really distracting. But, take it with a grain of salt as an US reader, I'm unsure if some of these are UK spellings.
The conflict in this book was weak. It all felt artificially placed and insincere just to add tension to the story.
Final thots: I thought the sex was hot but all my aforementioned problems still stand.
July 8, 2024
Published in July 2022 Broken served as Ami Spencer’s debut novel and what a cracker of a debut it was then, and certainly still is now.
An age-gap, second chance, workplace romance, Broken introduces readers to Callie Montgomery – a senior partner in her father’s architecture company, and older woman Jackie Taylor – a former business partner and lover back when Callie was younger, and now the firms new client relations manager.
Whilst the majority of the book is set in the present day, the first few chapters do flick between the past and present which imparts a feel for how Callie and Jackie first met and their relationship trauma up until the current day. I like that the age gap is quite a significant one, and that the power dynamics are actually inverted in the workplace, in that Callie is both the younger woman and also Jackie’s boss.
However, what really makes this book is the authentic representation of living with anxiety., which is something that Callie has struggled with throughout her life. Any readers who live with an anxiety disorder or suffer from issues arising from anxiety, will no doubt recognise the real and vivid depictions of anxiety and how receiving understanding and care from the right person can significantly help to ease the anxiety spiral. This is what readers get to experience with Callie and Jackie’s relationship from the outset; 12 years ago when Jackie first comforts Callie in the midst of a panic attack.
By the end of the story we know a great deal about Callie: her awful upbringing with a bitter and abusive mother, her failed marriage and even the struggles she’s faced over the years assimilating with her half siblings. Callie’s backstory is full of angst and trauma, painting a vivid picture of where her anxiety not only stems from but exactly how it has been able to consume her over the years. The person we don’t get to know too much of the back story of is Jackie. Whilst there’s plenty of depth to her present day thoughts and actions, particularly when they come to her concern for Callie, I don’t feel like I ever got to know who she was outside of that dynamic.
Overall, an intriguing and emotive read – is it the best story, plot heavy book I’ve ever read? No, BUT it does an exceptional job of incorporating anxiety into a characters psyche and demonstrating the impact it can have on a relationship – whether or not you’re the sufferer or the supporter and for that alone it gets a lot of love from me.
I received an arc of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
An age-gap, second chance, workplace romance, Broken introduces readers to Callie Montgomery – a senior partner in her father’s architecture company, and older woman Jackie Taylor – a former business partner and lover back when Callie was younger, and now the firms new client relations manager.
Whilst the majority of the book is set in the present day, the first few chapters do flick between the past and present which imparts a feel for how Callie and Jackie first met and their relationship trauma up until the current day. I like that the age gap is quite a significant one, and that the power dynamics are actually inverted in the workplace, in that Callie is both the younger woman and also Jackie’s boss.
However, what really makes this book is the authentic representation of living with anxiety., which is something that Callie has struggled with throughout her life. Any readers who live with an anxiety disorder or suffer from issues arising from anxiety, will no doubt recognise the real and vivid depictions of anxiety and how receiving understanding and care from the right person can significantly help to ease the anxiety spiral. This is what readers get to experience with Callie and Jackie’s relationship from the outset; 12 years ago when Jackie first comforts Callie in the midst of a panic attack.
By the end of the story we know a great deal about Callie: her awful upbringing with a bitter and abusive mother, her failed marriage and even the struggles she’s faced over the years assimilating with her half siblings. Callie’s backstory is full of angst and trauma, painting a vivid picture of where her anxiety not only stems from but exactly how it has been able to consume her over the years. The person we don’t get to know too much of the back story of is Jackie. Whilst there’s plenty of depth to her present day thoughts and actions, particularly when they come to her concern for Callie, I don’t feel like I ever got to know who she was outside of that dynamic.
Overall, an intriguing and emotive read – is it the best story, plot heavy book I’ve ever read? No, BUT it does an exceptional job of incorporating anxiety into a characters psyche and demonstrating the impact it can have on a relationship – whether or not you’re the sufferer or the supporter and for that alone it gets a lot of love from me.
I received an arc of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2022
Comforting tale
Ami Spencer’s “Broken” is the story of architect and designer Callie Montgomery’s comeback from being raised by a bitter, hateful mother.
Callie’s brutal past has left her broken and battling with intense anxiety.
Now Callie’s at the helm of her father’s design company, trying to keep it and herself together.
Fortunately, rejoining the company as accounts manager is Jackie Taylor, Callie’s former lover, 15 years her senior.
It was Callie’s angst that brought the two together originally.
At their first encounter 12 years earlier, Callie suffered a panic attack, which Jackie gently soothed her through.
Sadly, their time together ended when Callie’s childhood self-hatred is triggered and she bolts, leaving Jackie to grieve why she left and where she’s gone. In the intervening years, to distance herself from her past, Callie marries a woman who proves to be a cold, controlling wife.
Now Callie’s divorced, and Jackie’s back at the company to resume her role as a valuable employee and Callie’s greatest champion and comforter.
It’s uplifting to see the two gentle souls find their way back to each other — as lovers, colleagues, and partners. Also, it’s gratifying to experience Callie’s becoming confident, self-assured, and happy.
This is a great book I’m likely to read again.
Ami Spencer’s “Broken” is the story of architect and designer Callie Montgomery’s comeback from being raised by a bitter, hateful mother.
Callie’s brutal past has left her broken and battling with intense anxiety.
Now Callie’s at the helm of her father’s design company, trying to keep it and herself together.
Fortunately, rejoining the company as accounts manager is Jackie Taylor, Callie’s former lover, 15 years her senior.
It was Callie’s angst that brought the two together originally.
At their first encounter 12 years earlier, Callie suffered a panic attack, which Jackie gently soothed her through.
Sadly, their time together ended when Callie’s childhood self-hatred is triggered and she bolts, leaving Jackie to grieve why she left and where she’s gone. In the intervening years, to distance herself from her past, Callie marries a woman who proves to be a cold, controlling wife.
Now Callie’s divorced, and Jackie’s back at the company to resume her role as a valuable employee and Callie’s greatest champion and comforter.
It’s uplifting to see the two gentle souls find their way back to each other — as lovers, colleagues, and partners. Also, it’s gratifying to experience Callie’s becoming confident, self-assured, and happy.
This is a great book I’m likely to read again.
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