I am absolutely gutted by this book.

Being bipolar myself, this story really resonated with me. Though I did get a few chuckles out of it, there were times I was just sobbing. It's not an easy listen. Despite that, I loved this story because it didn't whitewash anything. Severe mental illness is a challenge for so many people. I hope Broken will let people truly understand who haven't been around it before. I can totally identify with James's statements about being a good liar and a good actor who can hide his feelings of depression from everyone.
I really loved and adored both James and Theo. I loved how Theo really stood by James and supported him in getting better. I also liked the supporting characters. Well, maybe except for Mike. 😉

I haven't read this book myself yet, just listened to it. I rave about Joel Leslie every time I listen to a book he's narrated. This one though. OMG. the depth of emotion he is able to express just with his voice blows me away. I can't just give him 5 stars for this one. I also need to add in the sun and the moon. And maybe even the whole galaxy. I don't know how he managed to get through this book and remain in such good control.

Without a doubt, this book will go right into my top 10 of all time.

28 people found this helpful

tough subject matter but awesomly written

I struggled at parts because of the subject matter but very well written. so true how many suffer alone feeling they do not deserve love.

13 people found this helpful

thank you for understanding

The strength of learning how to deal with one's world when they lose hope and the trails they over come. to never give up and know you are not alone when you're mind tricks you into believing others wise. thank you.

10 people found this helpful

If you’re broken, can you be put back together?

Can a book break your heart and still have a happy ending?

I have listened to 2 books recently that did exactly that. I listen to several books a week, so for me to be so profoundly affected says something about the power of the stories and the talent of the authors.

This book is not for the faint of heart. James Holden is broken. Anyone who has been broken or loved someone who is broken will recognize themselves or their loved ones.

It is raw and it is real and this is the way I love my books.

Low-angst feel-good books are nice, and I do enjoy them, but it’s the books that push me emotionally – that makes me go to unpleasant and rough places – that have the greatest impact on me. They stay with me the longest, have the most profound impact. I listened to this book 3 weeks ago and it has taken me this long to put down words – hopefully the right words.

This is a tough book emotionally. It ventures into very dark places. The promise of a happy ending might not be enough for some listeners, but it is worth the ten hours of your time.

Theodore Davenport has decided he needs to go after his dream. Publishing is where he’s always wanted to be and when the opportunity presents itself, he leaps.

No quickie in the bathroom of a bar is going to interfere with his plans. But that clichéd quickie leads him where he never pictured himself going. James Holden has a lot of responsibilities – more than one person can really handle. With a legacy to continue and a mother who is impossible to please, it’s no wonder he’s buckling under the strain. Watching the downward spiral, however, is just plain painful.

There is a moment of bleakness that had tears streaming down my face and a band around my chest. It’s a wonder my fellow train passengers didn’t think I was crazy. Or maybe they did – I just didn’t care.

At times I felt like I was the one who was broken, bringing back painful memories from my past. But I knew there was hope because when two men love each other as much as Theo and James do, everything is possible.

Also, anything narrated by Joel Leslie should be on auto-buy. He exceeds his normally stellar work with this book because his accents were spot-on. A great listen.

9 people found this helpful

The Perfect Title!

I asked for recommendations for a tear jerker and this is exactly what I got. This story Broke ME, and then put me back together.

Theodore is so dang sweet, I loved his character from the beginning he is kind of unsure of himself and it only endears me to him more.
But boy oh boy let me tell you once you are loved by him look out world because he is a force to be reckoned with.

When he meets James and their connection just sparks I was so freaking happy and then when he finds out who James is. Oh, nelly I tell you I was giddy with glee!

James, for me, took a little getting used to, you can just feel something coming from his character and you don’t know whether to trust him or not. I didn’t want him breaking my Theodore’s heart.

Here is why I love Theodore so much he sees something in James that no one else does and he brings it out of him. But the man had demons too and things are not all fluffy clouds and rainbows.

This book really will have you anticipating and feeling all of the feels. I cried I laughed, I felt so much. I am so very glad I chose to pick this book up.

The Narration: Holy Moly I had no idea Joel Leslie had an accent or if he doesn’t does he do one h-e –l- l-a well! I couldn’t get enough I will be seeking him out for other books especially if he does that delicious accent again.

8 people found this helpful

Omg

This was such a good listen! I'm still recovering. It's so much more then a romance! Granted it's hot 🔥🔥it touches on mental illness, it shows the struggles a couple goes threw when dealing with mental illness. I would definitely read more from this author!
The narrator did an amazing job💕💕👏👏

8 people found this helpful

can't stop crying

This is my first book by this arthur i will be purchasing more they had me up and down happy and sad I love books want more

7 people found this helpful

Broken but not Beaten

What did you love best about Broken?

The story is good. The book is even better due to its exploration of how people and families live with mental illness.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Broken?

Not that I liked what she said, but James' mother portrays many people's opinions when she lectures James during his hospitalization.

Would you listen to another book narrated by Joel Leslie?

I listen to Joel Leslie's books often. I find his voice whiny but he tells the story well.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It made me proud of both Theodore & James.

7 people found this helpful

Masterful Work by Nicola Haken and Joel Leslie

I loved this story so much and felt deeply connected to the characters throughout the novel, particularly Theo. It was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish! Thank you Nicola Hacken for sharing the insightful words and vivid imagery that allowed you to bring these beautifully complex characters to life! Also, I commend Joel Leslie on his excellent narration!

6 people found this helpful

Deep

What a powerful story. I thought this would be a sleeper, was I wrong. This story touched home and had a deep impact on my life dealing with real issues. Great book. Thank you.

5 people found this helpful