Title: Broken
Author: Nicola Haken
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Release Date: February 29, 2016
First of all, I should say keep a box of tissues nearby when you read this, as you will need them!! Secondly, I should also mention the warning given before you read the book, that it contains scenes of self harm, mental illness and suicidal ideation. Although upsetting, it was necessary part of the book. I could not put this book down, I just sat and read and read until I had finished. I am totally in awe of the way that Nicola Haken manages to get the emotions over in her books - hence the warning for the tissues.
Theodore and James meet in a club bathroom, but names are not exchanged, and neither expect to meet the other again - although Theodore has never forgotten the man from the bathroom. When Theodore changes jobs, he is amazed to find out that the owner of the company is none other than the man from the bathroom.
Although both vastly different in character and temperament, Theodore and James seem to hit it off, and spend time together getting to know each other. James seems to be confused by his feelings for Theodore at times, he believes it may be love, but really isn't sure, and he also considers himself flawed and broken, and not worthy of being loved either.
As they get to know each other, James confesses to Theodore about his bipolar, and as they grow closer, he explains more about his life. growing up. Theodore is so upset at what James has had to endure, and can't believe that nobody noticed his distress. James explained most things to Theodore, even the pain in he felt inside, which in turn made him attempt taking his own life.
Soon, Theodore is practically living with James, and things seem to be going really well, until after a visit from James mother seems to send James on a very fast downward spiral. He seems to deliberately try to start a fight with Theodore, and then tells him that he will drop any items of his back at his workstation. Theodore goes to find James at his flat, and finds him in a state, but his presence seems to calm James somewhat. Theodore incorrectly thinks that James is ok now, but he could not be more wrong, James has come to the end of the road again, and is planning his escape from his life.
Theo was with his brother when he found James, and he completely fell apart. I think in part he was upset with himself for ignoring the warning signs, for believing James when he said he was fine. When James does come round in the hospital, he tells them that he doesn't want to see Theodore, and his wishes are respected.
Now starts the biggest fight that Theodore has ever had, and that was to try and show James that he loved him still, that nothing would stop that. Theodore never gave up, and still went to the hospital every day even though he wasn't allowed to see James.
I have to say I loved the character of the Doctor in the Psychiatric Hospital, for once James seemed to have a Doctor who understood him, and knew the right way to finally get James to talk. This was the start of a turning point for James. Theodore was still visiting, even though James would not see him. The more James sees Peter (his Doctor), the more you can see a change with him, and for the better.
Does James ever relent and see Theodore? What can Theodore do to ensure James believe that he loves him totally, his bipolar included? Will James ever believe that Theodore loves him - all of him?
This book was really emotional at times, and others you will be smiling. I had no idea about bipolar, and this story gave you an insight, not hiding anything, but not glamorising it either. If you love a great story, emotional roller coaster ride, then read this book, you will not regret it. I should also say here, be prepared to get really annoyed with one of the characters in the book - I did, to the extent that I wanted to reach in and hit the person!!
Theodore and James meet in a club bathroom, but names are not exchanged, and neither expect to meet the other again - although Theodore has never forgotten the man from the bathroom. When Theodore changes jobs, he is amazed to find out that the owner of the company is none other than the man from the bathroom.
Although both vastly different in character and temperament, Theodore and James seem to hit it off, and spend time together getting to know each other. James seems to be confused by his feelings for Theodore at times, he believes it may be love, but really isn't sure, and he also considers himself flawed and broken, and not worthy of being loved either.
As they get to know each other, James confesses to Theodore about his bipolar, and as they grow closer, he explains more about his life. growing up. Theodore is so upset at what James has had to endure, and can't believe that nobody noticed his distress. James explained most things to Theodore, even the pain in he felt inside, which in turn made him attempt taking his own life.
Soon, Theodore is practically living with James, and things seem to be going really well, until after a visit from James mother seems to send James on a very fast downward spiral. He seems to deliberately try to start a fight with Theodore, and then tells him that he will drop any items of his back at his workstation. Theodore goes to find James at his flat, and finds him in a state, but his presence seems to calm James somewhat. Theodore incorrectly thinks that James is ok now, but he could not be more wrong, James has come to the end of the road again, and is planning his escape from his life.
Theo was with his brother when he found James, and he completely fell apart. I think in part he was upset with himself for ignoring the warning signs, for believing James when he said he was fine. When James does come round in the hospital, he tells them that he doesn't want to see Theodore, and his wishes are respected.
Now starts the biggest fight that Theodore has ever had, and that was to try and show James that he loved him still, that nothing would stop that. Theodore never gave up, and still went to the hospital every day even though he wasn't allowed to see James.
I have to say I loved the character of the Doctor in the Psychiatric Hospital, for once James seemed to have a Doctor who understood him, and knew the right way to finally get James to talk. This was the start of a turning point for James. Theodore was still visiting, even though James would not see him. The more James sees Peter (his Doctor), the more you can see a change with him, and for the better.
Does James ever relent and see Theodore? What can Theodore do to ensure James believe that he loves him totally, his bipolar included? Will James ever believe that Theodore loves him - all of him?
This book was really emotional at times, and others you will be smiling. I had no idea about bipolar, and this story gave you an insight, not hiding anything, but not glamorising it either. If you love a great story, emotional roller coaster ride, then read this book, you will not regret it. I should also say here, be prepared to get really annoyed with one of the characters in the book - I did, to the extent that I wanted to reach in and hit the person!!
“Broken is truly a remarkable book. I was blown away by it, by the raw and sincere way Ms. Haken took these men through the roller coaster of living with unrelenting demons. And now, as I sit here wondering if I have to courage to post this review, all I can think about is how far into my heart Theo and James have embedded themselves--and how I hope they never leave. I think it might be too hard to say goodbye...although maybe not as hard as it was find the words that I hope compel you to read this breathtaking book.” ~ Beth, Give Me Books
“A stunning but achingly painful read” ~ Author Sloane Kennedy
“This is an amazing book full of so much raw emotion that it gripped me and wouldn't let up. I felt like I was watching a movie in my head and I wanted to just jump in the book and give James a huge hug. Lots of FEELz in this book.. both good and bad.” ~ Alpha Book Club
Nicola lives in Rochdale, England with her husband and four children (six if you include the dog and cat!) She is the author the author of the m/m romance Souls of the Knight series, and is currently working on a standalone with new boys, James and Theo, due for release early 2016. When she is not busy playing with her imaginary book friends (or talking about them with real life friends!) she can usually be found carrying out her ordinary mum/housewife/all round slave duties. Oh, and if the kids ever ask, she moonlights as the Pink Power Ranger while they're sleeping...
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