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Broken
Laila had it all--love, family, wealth, and faith. But when her faith crumbles, her world falls apart and Laila finds herself living an empty, dangerous life as a call girl in Chicago. When she is threatened, Laila shoots and kills a client in self-defense, sending herself into a spiral of guilt and emptiness. Six months later, she is trying to move on, but she's haunted by the past. She hasn't told anyone about the man she killed, and she's still estranged from her family. When she is approached by a stranger who says he knows what she did, Laila has no choice but to run. But the stranger stays close behind, and Laila begins having visions of the man she killed. Little does she know she's being hounded by something not of this world, something that knows her deepest, darkest secret. Scared and wandering, will Laila regain her trust in God to protect her from these demons? Or will her plea for salvation come too late?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2010
5 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Travis Thrasher
72 books419 followersNew York Times bestselling author Travis Thrasher has written over 75 books, from fiction in a variety of genres to memoirs and children’s books. He has collaborated with filmmakers, musicians, athletes, comedians and pastors. Travis lives with his wife and three daughters in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 19, 2010
"Broken" was...surreal. Weird. Creepy. Depressing. Not to mention disjointed and confusing. It's a fast-paced suspense novel, but it was hard to be worried when I sometimes had no idea what was going on. I'd actually call "Broken" a horror novel. The author mixed nightmares, reality, and supernatural until I wasn't sure what was happening. Granted, the author was probably trying to make the reader feel what it was like inside Laila's head, but for much of the novel we're not really in her head but at a distance watching things unfold.
The author also introduced new characters without telling us how they related to other characters, where they were, or why they were acting in the mysterious way they were. Sometimes he gave full names but no connections, but other times he hid the character's identity, too. An author can get away with a little of this, but this happened so much that I felt confused most of the time. Ironically, though, I still did guess the "surprise twist" before it was revealed.
All that said, the characters dealt with realistic problems and were realistic enough. I only really liked one of the characters, though, and I'm angry at the author for what he did to this character.
Most of the novel had a "supernatural" theme rather than a Christian one since spooky supernatural events were the focus. Laila rejected God because she believed that He didn't care about her--if He even existed. And, if He did, then He wouldn't want anything to do with her anyway because of all the bad choices and sins in her past. A Christian message was worked into the last few chapters, though, as Laila thought over things she experienced and things she believed now but still struggled to accept.
The novel was written in third person, present tense ("Laila goes to the door") which read awkwardly. There was some swearing and cussing. There was no explicit sex or gore. Overall, this novel just didn't work for me.
I received this book as an advanced readers copy from the publisher.
The author also introduced new characters without telling us how they related to other characters, where they were, or why they were acting in the mysterious way they were. Sometimes he gave full names but no connections, but other times he hid the character's identity, too. An author can get away with a little of this, but this happened so much that I felt confused most of the time. Ironically, though, I still did guess the "surprise twist" before it was revealed.
All that said, the characters dealt with realistic problems and were realistic enough. I only really liked one of the characters, though, and I'm angry at the author for what he did to this character.
Most of the novel had a "supernatural" theme rather than a Christian one since spooky supernatural events were the focus. Laila rejected God because she believed that He didn't care about her--if He even existed. And, if He did, then He wouldn't want anything to do with her anyway because of all the bad choices and sins in her past. A Christian message was worked into the last few chapters, though, as Laila thought over things she experienced and things she believed now but still struggled to accept.
The novel was written in third person, present tense ("Laila goes to the door") which read awkwardly. There was some swearing and cussing. There was no explicit sex or gore. Overall, this novel just didn't work for me.
I received this book as an advanced readers copy from the publisher.
February 26, 2019
Fast paced suspense novel that's a little dark at times but makes you think about the choices you make in life. Even as a Christian it makes you think about the grace and mercy God has for you and for those who dont believe.
May 27, 2014
The book Broken is a piece of inspirational fiction written by Travis Thrasher. I would recommend it to people who are religious but can still handle a bit of fantasy.
The main character of this novel is Laila Torres. She had it all; money, looks, and love. Choices of her own and of the people around her ended all of that. It seemed like running was the only way to get through the path she chose. So she ran. She tried to forget about her past, but when a stranger told her he knew what she did, it all comes back to haunt her. Can she ever find her way back to that happy life?
I liked how The author kept some confusion within the plot and left some questions unanswered for a while. It makes you want to keep reading the novel until the end, even when you read though some rare parts make you want to yawn. The journal entrees at the beginning of each chapter was a nice touch and helps to relate to the main character. The book is told in many points of view. I found this especially helpful since they were all so complicated. It helped to show a theme that people aren't what they may seem on the outside. The only thing I did not like was that one of the characters main motive is to be forever left in the dark.
Broken is an over all well written novel that many people would enjoy.
The main character of this novel is Laila Torres. She had it all; money, looks, and love. Choices of her own and of the people around her ended all of that. It seemed like running was the only way to get through the path she chose. So she ran. She tried to forget about her past, but when a stranger told her he knew what she did, it all comes back to haunt her. Can she ever find her way back to that happy life?
I liked how The author kept some confusion within the plot and left some questions unanswered for a while. It makes you want to keep reading the novel until the end, even when you read though some rare parts make you want to yawn. The journal entrees at the beginning of each chapter was a nice touch and helps to relate to the main character. The book is told in many points of view. I found this especially helpful since they were all so complicated. It helped to show a theme that people aren't what they may seem on the outside. The only thing I did not like was that one of the characters main motive is to be forever left in the dark.
Broken is an over all well written novel that many people would enjoy.
May 17, 2023
Travis’ writing style is interesting. Generally I love the challenge of keeping up with what’s going on, but I think this was my least favorite of his books that I’ve read so far. I will definitely say what I thought the book was about in the beginning was not close to what the book ended up being about
January 16, 2018
Started good but then tried to weave in Christianity and did it poorly. Ended up very corny
December 1, 2019
Thriller, mystery, with a bit of ghost. Terrifying puzzle, beautifully written.
February 21, 2021
Intense! Great overall lesson about forgiveness and grace. Grateful for a happy ending.
November 30, 2024
Good read !!!
March 9, 2013
Laila has the money and the means to live any kind of life she wants. But when she makes a bad choice, she believes she is beyond redemption and becomes a call girl in Chicago. When a client becomes dangerous, she shoots him to protect herself. Six months later, she is full of guilt and self-recrimination, and every shadow is a piece of her past trying to get her. Haunted by the things she's done and all the things she never will get to do, Laila can only run so far from herself.
When a complete stranger approaches her claiming he knows what she's done, Laila first instinct is to run. How can anyone know the truths of her past she has been so careful to hide - even from herself? Convinced that no one could possibly have discovered the secrets she has never voiced aloud, she begins to see the man she killed even as she runs away from the truth of every evil thing she's ever done. As she tries to run from herself, will her plea for grace come too late? Or has the past truly caught up to her and the time of redemption long gone?
Thrasher's novels always makes me contemplate the deeper meaning of life. This one is no different. I try to fill my life with one activity or another, trying to pass the time, trying not to face about the things I've done. But he forces me to stop and reconsider the way I live, and what is in my heart. Laila has made some bad choices. But the heavy questions of redemption and grace, and whether it's ever truly too late to change who you are gives you cause to question your life and re-evaluate where you stand in anticipation of eternity. A though provoking novel that caused me to wonder how broken I am willing to be before I surrender to the one One who can heal any kind of broken life, heart or soul.
When a complete stranger approaches her claiming he knows what she's done, Laila first instinct is to run. How can anyone know the truths of her past she has been so careful to hide - even from herself? Convinced that no one could possibly have discovered the secrets she has never voiced aloud, she begins to see the man she killed even as she runs away from the truth of every evil thing she's ever done. As she tries to run from herself, will her plea for grace come too late? Or has the past truly caught up to her and the time of redemption long gone?
Thrasher's novels always makes me contemplate the deeper meaning of life. This one is no different. I try to fill my life with one activity or another, trying to pass the time, trying not to face about the things I've done. But he forces me to stop and reconsider the way I live, and what is in my heart. Laila has made some bad choices. But the heavy questions of redemption and grace, and whether it's ever truly too late to change who you are gives you cause to question your life and re-evaluate where you stand in anticipation of eternity. A though provoking novel that caused me to wonder how broken I am willing to be before I surrender to the one One who can heal any kind of broken life, heart or soul.
May 26, 2010
Broken by Travis Thrasher is another profound and disturbing novel by an author who is quickly becoming known for works like this. Laila Torres has spent the last several years of her life running from something, and her flight became vital six months ago when she killed a man. Now she's on the run and hunted by several men, all who want something different from her, but she's seeing and hearing things that make her feel like she's losing her mind. What do you do when there's nowhere left to run? Broken starts out in short, disconnected pieces that slowly come together into a haunting story that creates the illusion that the reader is in a nightmare where no image is to be trusted and nothing is exactly what it seems. Thrasher juggles the almost surrealistic setting at times with the harsh realities of a woman who is suffering deep soul pain with no idea about where to find relief. He isn't afraid to push the character right up and over the edge. I was stunned several times by Laila's actions, but Thrasher's characterization is so deep, that every move always feels completely authentic. Ultimately, the story is about hope; that broken place inside of us when hope is completely shattered and the choices we make from that point on, constantly reacting to life from a place of pain and heartbreak. Even the antagonists, in the midst of their most vile acts, are still seeking hope, because that is the human condition. Thrasher has written the rare suspense novel that truly has a deeper message of faith and hope.
October 19, 2016
I hardly EVER give books 1 star. All books in my opinion get 2 most of the time for effort. With that being said, This book was pure garbage. I want y'all to know I NEVER finished this book. I am Very O.C.D when it comes to reading books. Even if I don't like a book much, My O.C.D forces me to finish every time. My O.C.D didn't get in the way with this book. I really just could not get into it. It was so boring, and drawn out. I think I finally got to the middle, and just kept putting the book down. I can't believe I didn't finish the book, but I just couldn't. Nothing of this book caught my attention. All I knew was some chick killed a dude, and she moved on to start a new life. Her past comes back to haunt her. The dude she killed had a brother, and he is terrorizing and following the chick. Her character is boring. Lex, her brother, is quite boring himself. I read the inside flap of this book, and became very disappointed very quick. When I keep putting a book down, I'm just not into it. I think this book is the first book I have given 1 star to. I would not recommend this to anyone. My brain needs to be stimulated when I read, and this book failed to do that. The first book I haven't finished in a longgg time. *
January 27, 2017
If you like plots with supernatural occurrences you will like this book more than if you expect the entire story to be truly realistic. There are indeed actions carried out that are unexplainable, or are explained by a ghost but that is kind of a small part of the total story. The ghost plays a major role in the plot, in my opinion, but the majority of the story is realistic. The ghost or the unexplainable enables some of the realistic actions that could not occur otherwise, but most of the story time is spent on real people characters. So, the story could not occur as it did, especially the ending, without a ghost, but the dialog and events happen mostly between living people (not all of whom remain alive).
There are some poignant moments toward the end, and some ideas for thought, which, perhaps slowed me down a little as I pondered them while reading. The book is enjoyable, if dark, once you finish it, and there are some enlightening parts at the very end. I have to admit, it took me longer than expected in the middle because I never got to a place where it was so exciting that I couldn't put the book down. I also wasn't compelled to run back and continue reading it. But, while I did read it, I enjoyed it. It was definitely worth the time to read.
There are some poignant moments toward the end, and some ideas for thought, which, perhaps slowed me down a little as I pondered them while reading. The book is enjoyable, if dark, once you finish it, and there are some enlightening parts at the very end. I have to admit, it took me longer than expected in the middle because I never got to a place where it was so exciting that I couldn't put the book down. I also wasn't compelled to run back and continue reading it. But, while I did read it, I enjoyed it. It was definitely worth the time to read.
May 23, 2012
BROKEN is like no other I've read. Being a fan of Travis Thrasher's romance novels, when I spotted BROKEN I purchased it. Though he may write in a variety of genre, how can one not at least give one of his other novels a try?
I loved the journal entries before each chapter. It pulled you into the very heart of the main character, Laila.
The story started as pure mystery that kept you turning the pages, wanting to understand what was going on. As the story unfolds, page after page, you are slowly taken on a journey of a young woman who through a series of bad choices found herself on the run.
Travis did an amazing job of bringing in several characters with such vivid stories they each elicited their own set of emotions within you, whether that be sorrow, anger, love. Though I'm not a fan of the supernatural ideas, I loved the message BROKEN gave. A glimpse into one's journey of learning to trust in God enough to start a new chapter in their life.
The most powerful aspect of the story for me was why Laila became who she became. The message of how bad decisions can haunt us for a very long time if we don't confront them and make peace with them through God.
I loved the journal entries before each chapter. It pulled you into the very heart of the main character, Laila.
The story started as pure mystery that kept you turning the pages, wanting to understand what was going on. As the story unfolds, page after page, you are slowly taken on a journey of a young woman who through a series of bad choices found herself on the run.
Travis did an amazing job of bringing in several characters with such vivid stories they each elicited their own set of emotions within you, whether that be sorrow, anger, love. Though I'm not a fan of the supernatural ideas, I loved the message BROKEN gave. A glimpse into one's journey of learning to trust in God enough to start a new chapter in their life.
The most powerful aspect of the story for me was why Laila became who she became. The message of how bad decisions can haunt us for a very long time if we don't confront them and make peace with them through God.
May 31, 2010
Many thanks to Karen Ukraine for the Hachette Book Group for providing a copy for review!
Dark, very dark novel about a young woman who is trying to find herself in midst of crisis. Through a weird, disjointed series of events, she finds herself traveling all over the country seeking something she has no idea she needs.
I can't particularly say that I enjoyed this book. I barely made it halfway through and then decided it might get better so I stuck it out. I'm not quite sure that "christian fiction" is an appropriate label for this book, even though it does talk about finding God. I was very bothered to pick up a book labeled as such and find many unsavory words throughout. I found the writing somewhat disjointed. Very short, choppy sentences that didn't seem to go together. Overall, not an enjoyable book for me. Others have enjoyed it though and I encourage you to read their reviews and not pass judgment on mine alone. Read other reviews and get information on the author here
Dark, very dark novel about a young woman who is trying to find herself in midst of crisis. Through a weird, disjointed series of events, she finds herself traveling all over the country seeking something she has no idea she needs.
I can't particularly say that I enjoyed this book. I barely made it halfway through and then decided it might get better so I stuck it out. I'm not quite sure that "christian fiction" is an appropriate label for this book, even though it does talk about finding God. I was very bothered to pick up a book labeled as such and find many unsavory words throughout. I found the writing somewhat disjointed. Very short, choppy sentences that didn't seem to go together. Overall, not an enjoyable book for me. Others have enjoyed it though and I encourage you to read their reviews and not pass judgment on mine alone. Read other reviews and get information on the author here
May 28, 2010
A twisty little adventure written in unique third person style (think McMann's Wake) with the same type of dark feel yet not as fragmented. It took me a few chapters to get used to Thrashers style of writing as I found some of the words very dicey, but once I got the flow down it paced along very nicely until the end. Parts of the novel especially with the supporting cast had me at times very confused and feeling lost, I didn't know if these things were for real or if I just walked into schizophrenia land. Regardless, it was still an interesting read and I'm always surprised to find a Christian author who gets gritty and dark. I loved that this book went in some corners a lot of authors in this genre will not. The mixture of nightmares and the supernatural gave the book a feeling of a horror novel but still anchored to a believable reality-minus of course the schizo parts.........Im left wowed and chilled.....read full review at blog.
May 16, 2019
Although Thrasher's latest book seems like a straightforward story at first, it soon becomes apparent that there are deeper spiritual meanings inside. Withholding Laila's back story is unnecessary and creates confusion when trying to sort out what is happening with the plot. The ending ties together the loose ends in a very satisfying way.
SUMMARY: After Laila commits murder in Chicago, she goes on the run and cuts off communication with her family. But now the murdered man's brother has found her, and is out for revenge. On top of that, Laila is having visions of the man she killed. She discovers that it's nearly impossible to move forward unless she deals with the past. Can she do it alone, or will God help her, even knowing all of the horrible things she's done?
SUMMARY: After Laila commits murder in Chicago, she goes on the run and cuts off communication with her family. But now the murdered man's brother has found her, and is out for revenge. On top of that, Laila is having visions of the man she killed. She discovers that it's nearly impossible to move forward unless she deals with the past. Can she do it alone, or will God help her, even knowing all of the horrible things she's done?
Read
June 2, 2010As if the specters of her past are not enough to torment her guilt ridden soul, Laila finds herself stalked by a man bent on revenge – and using her to solve serious problems of his own. As she runs from the very real physical threat, the chase is joined by friends, foes, and family. Unfortunately, Laila is never sure if the things she sees are reality, her own imagination, or even something supernatural.
Broken is one of those books where nothing is as it seems. The fast paced plot is filled with action, suspense, and a perfectly crafted creepy atmosphere that will keep the reader engaged until the very end. Themes of forgiveness, sacrificial love, and restoration are deftly woven throughout. Definitely a must read for those who enjoy this genre.
Broken is one of those books where nothing is as it seems. The fast paced plot is filled with action, suspense, and a perfectly crafted creepy atmosphere that will keep the reader engaged until the very end. Themes of forgiveness, sacrificial love, and restoration are deftly woven throughout. Definitely a must read for those who enjoy this genre.
March 22, 2012
I enjoyed this book. I love that each of his books is different enough to make me wonder early on where things are going and/or what path they'll take to get there.
I can usually identify with at least some aspect of Thrasher's characters, if not completely, and there is usually an "aha!" passage in each of his books that speaks to me in one way or another.
This book's "aha!" passage: "What would it be like to be a white page, starting from the beginning with stories untold and memories unmade? To start with a blank slate and go from there? I wonder."
I can usually identify with at least some aspect of Thrasher's characters, if not completely, and there is usually an "aha!" passage in each of his books that speaks to me in one way or another.
This book's "aha!" passage: "What would it be like to be a white page, starting from the beginning with stories untold and memories unmade? To start with a blank slate and go from there? I wonder."
November 9, 2011
Some things I felt were not wrapped up that well. (like why did Laila disappear? sounded like nothing really happened that made her vanish and have no contact with her family)
This is my first book by this author, recommended by a friend. I still cannot figure out, was this supposed to be a Christian fiction? It did have a few curse words, not many, but a few.
This is my first book by this author, recommended by a friend. I still cannot figure out, was this supposed to be a Christian fiction? It did have a few curse words, not many, but a few.
October 27, 2010
OH MY GOSH!!!!!!! I can not believe this book got published. I have hopes of being able to author a book if you don't need to have any experience, a good plot line, any interesting, likable characters. I DO NOT SUGGEST THIS BOOK TO ANYONE I LIKE OR DON'T LIKE.
July 20, 2016
Made it to page 100 and then gave up. Book was just not written in a style I enjoyed. Very disjointed, lots of flashbacks, and flashes of visions etc. Was sectioned into so many pieces just couldn't get into the story.
Want to read
May 6, 2010*Thanks to FaithWords through CFBA for providing a copy for review.*
July 1, 2010
Here is the link to my review:
http://web.me.com/quirion/Bookaddict/...
http://web.me.com/quirion/Bookaddict/...
May 18, 2012
Not my usual genre of book but the characters are so real. Compellingly written, no "obvious" plot or ending. Must say I couldn't read before bed without being disturbed though.
March 1, 2013
Was certainly not my kind of book. I like mysteries and thrillers, but this one seemed pointless and you couldn't like hardly any of the charactors. It was not a story as much as disjointed sections.
May 3, 2015
Been talking with the author, Mr. Thrasher, this week and discussing this novel. Great mystery and storytelling here. Quick and lively pacing. Check it out.
August 11, 2015
I didn't like it, it was so depressing all the way thru to the last few pages. I rank it up there with the book The Road. A very hard read.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews