Broken

By: Nicola Haken

Narrated by: Joel Leslie

When Theodore Davenport decides to switch his mundane job for a career, he walks into Holden House Publishing with enthusiasm and determination to succeed. As he settles into his new role, makes new friends, and dreams of making it to the top, everything is going to plan. Until he meets James Holden, CEO of Holden House. James Holden hasn't been able to stop thinking about his encounter with the timid man he met in a club bathroom last week, and when he discovers the one haunting his dreams is an employee, he can't seem to stop himself from pursuing him. Just a little fun - that's what James tells himself. He can't afford to care for someone who can never reciprocate, not once they find out who he really is. James believes nobody deserves the burden of being attached to him. He's a complicated man. Damaged. Difficult. Demanding. Broken. Is Theodore strong enough to confront James' demons? More importantly, is James?

M/M romance. Not suitable for listeners under 18 years of age due to language and sexual content.

Please note: This book contains scenes of self-harm, mental illness, and suicidal ideation which may be uncomfortable for some listeners.

©2016 Nicola Wall (P)2017 Nicola Wall

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.

A novel twist.

A nice read - nothing too heavy, and a nice gentle story. Holden character wasn't completely believable, but nicely written and narrated.

Stunning and steamy read.

What made the experience of listening to Broken the most enjoyable?

I read a lot of M/M romance but this one was a cut above. Really stunning story, well developed characters and plot, and the author never takes the easy way out. Add on a truly gifted narrator, and this audio book is a must have.

Listen to this!

Serious trigger warnings! I really liked this book. I really liked the metal health aspect to this book. I really felt for both Theo and Holden. The book is a medium heat level and slightly angsty. I really really recommend this book. Plus you really can't go wrong with a book narrated by Joel Leslie.

Wow - definitely a hard listen but also a favorite

Wow! This was a hard listen as it obviously has to do with mental illnesses and the impact that it has on those who suffer from it and those who love them. It killed me hearing James' inner turmoil, so I would advise anyone who is struggling with mental illness and dark thoughts right now, maybe be careful when listening to this because it gets INTENSE and I had to even listen to it over a few days as to not get overwhelmed by it. This book is filled to the brim with pain, love, hope, and beauty.
Joel Leslie as always did an amazing job. I have yet to hear a book that I didn't think Joel did well on though to be honest.