This book was trippy. An agent works on a case involving drugs being found at the scene. She suddenly gets a new partner that is harboring secrets. This book jumped around so much I was starting to think I was a little crazy, but then everything started coming together and it was an oh I get it moment. I really enjoyed how everything came together, even though it was a little fast but in the end it all worked out. Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for allowing me to read this book.

This is my first time reading one of Mia Sheridan’s romantic suspense novels and on the whole, I absolutely loved The Broken Places. Its particular storyline isn’t one I tend to seek out and although I have read this author’s work before and since I always go into a story blind, I got quite the surprise! I’m used to reading this author’s stories such as Archer’s Voice, and I have to say, I certainly would read more suspense novels by her in the future.

My mind has been working overtime. Throughout this narrative, I have repeatedly considered the possibilities of what was happening, by whose hands and why. I’m no Miss Marple so it’s needless to say that most of my theories were proven wrong - and I loved this. I enjoyed witnessing protagonists Ambrose and Lennon working together and the connection that they share. I absolutely loved Ambrose’s character development. Many twists and turns kept me hooked and desperate to discover what was going to happen next. However, I did tend to lose concentration around the middle of the book, and especially during those chapters when we went back in time.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Broken Pieces. I thought the plot of the story was cleverly thought out and penned. I would definitely recommend this book to you to read.

The Broken Places by Mia Sheridan is a deeply emotional and powerful romance that explores healing, trauma, and second chances. The story follows two characters, both scarred by their pasts, who find solace and love in each other’s arms. Sheridan’s writing is tender and evocative, with well-developed characters and a compelling emotional journey. The Broken Places is a heartfelt read for fans of romance with deep emotional depth, complex characters, and themes of personal growth and healing.

I really love all the books from Mia Sheridan! I really do recommend this book if you like this kind of genre!

Mia Sheridan writes it imma read it. The twists in her mystery books make me fall in love with thrillers all over again. Don’t get me wrong I love her romance books but I think I like these books better? Lennon and Ambrose worked together well, eventually, and the connection they made was perfection

I'm entering my thriller Era and Mia Sheridan doesn't disappoint, I knew I loved her as a romance author but now im a fan of the more thrilling side of her writing as well.

Oh my gosh, this book was phenomenal! It’s an emotional rollercoaster packed with twists, secrets, and so much heart. A police procedural at its core, but honestly, it’s so much more than that. Set in the gritty streets of San Francisco, the story dives into themes of trauma, healing, and love in the most unexpected places.

We follow Inspector Lennon Gray, who’s such a layered and relatable character. She’s juggling a dark past while investigating these strange murders tied to an unknown hallucinogenic drug. When FBI Agent Ambrose Mars comes onto the scene, the stakes get even higher—and the chemistry between them? Perfection.

Mia Sheridan absolutely nails the balance here. The twists kept me on the edge of my seat, but the emotional depth had me tearing up. Lennon and Ambrose’s journey is raw and inspiring, showing that even in life’s darkest moments, there’s room for love and growth. And the idea of using EMDR and hallucinogens for trauma recovery? Such a bold and unique angle—it really makes you think.

The writing flows so smoothly, and the pacing is spot-on. There’s action and suspense, but also these beautifully tender moments that just hit you right in the feels. Mia has a way of making every emotion feel so real—whether it’s pain, joy, or love.

The ending is satisfying but leaves a few little threads untied. If you’re into emotional, twisty reads with complex characters and an unconventional love story, this is a must-read. It’s a beautiful reminder that even the most shattered hearts can find healing and love. Highly recommend!

Thank you so much Mia, Netgalley and Montlake for this arc🫶

✨ they’d lost him at every age he’d never be. And so in some sense, the loss never stopped. In many ways, it deepened over time.✨

Another original, mind boggling read by Mia Sheridan! She seems to write these amazing reads that are one of a kind.
This book had me hooked right away, I was invested and needed to see how it was all going to play out!

The story focuses on a string of murder investigations that where the murderer is using an unknown drug to cause disturbing crime scenes.
This drug is also used in underground treatments to help trauma victims overcome their demons and learn to live a normal life.

If you like suspense + secrets + romance then this book is for you!!

✨Things that happen when we’re young have the most impact on our lives.✨

This book delivered a mix of highs and lows. Some chapters were so compelling they demanded my full attention, while others moved at a sluggish pace, making it challenging to stay engaged. The plot had its merits, delivering a decent story overall, but the characters left little impression. They weren’t particularly memorable or frustrating, just somewhere in the middle. Overall, while the book had its moments of intrigue, its uneven pacing and unremarkable characters left it feeling average. It was a decent read for passing the time but falls short of leaving a lasting impression.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

I was super excited about this book and author because I have read other books but this one didn’t meet my expectations. It had twists and turns and kept me interested for the most part but I did struggle with some of the character development. I also had parts where I didn’t want to keep reading. I’d say this is an average read for me.

Mia Sheridan is on a role with these dark romantic thrillers, and Broken Places is definitely in this category. Lennon is a detective, attending some of the most gruesome crimes. When a new case lands her at an ugly scene, she is given a new partner, Ambrose, an FBI agent tasked with investigating these harsh realities. He is mysterious, seemingly quiet and reserved.
With a new drug on the market and serious murders happening that shows a link to this drug, the detectives are determined to figure out what’s going on.
I was interested in the killer mystery, I wanted to understand what led to such heinous crimes but this story twisted into something more unrealistic by the end of the book. Lennon wasn’t the most likable character but her trauma and tough work life may have contributed to her harshness. Unfortunately this wasn’t for me but I’m glad to see others loved it.
Thank you for the eARC.

I just think this one might not have been for me. There were some parts that I literally could not put the book down because they were so interesting and other parts that I had to force myself to read.

The plot was what originally drew me in. It sounded so good, and a lot of it was. I didn't see all of the twists coming and I was engaged enough to finish it so I could figure out what was going on. There was, in my opinion, a fair amount of fluff though that detracted from the story.

The characters were okay. I didn't love them but I didn't dislike them either. They were just kind of there for me.

Absolutely not a negative read for me, just more middle of the road.

A dark and twisted new read that follows and Detective and and Inspector in San Francisco as they investigate a new drug that is having an horrific effect on the homeless community. Brutal, multiple homicides with no clear motive or perpetrator are happening before they can even get their heads around the first case. Inspector Lennon Gray is paired with the mysterious FBI Detective Ambrose Mars who as her feeling all kinds of confused. Ambrose seems to be hiding things. She feels a pull to him she cannot deny, but is reluctant to make a move. She is still mourning the loss of her first love and does not think she is ready. Ambrose on the other hand knows what he is feeling is strong enough to take a chance on, despite the secrets he is keeping. Will those secrets tear them apart? Will they make them stronger? Can they stop the killer before there is a mass murder on their conscience? If you want the answer you will have to read it!

In her latest psychological thriller, *The Broken Places*, Mia Sheridan tells a gripping story about trauma, healing, and unexpected love, all set in the tough landscape of San Francisco's underbelly. After the success of her earlier books like *Bad Mother* and *All the Little Raindrops*, Sheridan shows off her knack for mixing romance with intense psychological suspense, making for a really engaging read.
The story is largely effective but has some areas that could be improved.
*The Broken Places* delves into the impact of trauma on human experience and the diverse routes to healing. Sheridan questions traditional treatment approaches and highlights the intricacies of recovery. The novel also prompts discussions on medical ethics, consent, and the extremes people may pursue for inner peace.

*The Broken Places* stands out as a compelling contribution to the psychological thriller genre, showcasing Sheridan's remarkable ability in character development and emotional storytelling. While its dark themes may prove challenging for some readers, the overarching message of hope and healing resonates long after the final page is turned. This novel reaffirms Sheridan's reputation as a talented writer, adept at exploring complex issues while keeping the narrative tense and emotionally authentic.

**Trigger Warning:**
- Sexual assault
- Murder
- Drug use/overdose
- Sex trafficking of minors

Thank you to the publisher, Montlake, the author, Mia Sheridan, and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC).

This book was an easy four star read for me! I was super excited because it was my very first ARC that I had the privilege of reading. Not only that, it was from one of my all time favorite authors, the incredible Mia Sheridan!

The main characters are Lennon and Ambrose. They are investigating murders that involve an unknown drug and unusual circumstances. I would say the book starts off a little confusing. There are chapters that take place in the present, years before as well as ones that are a podcast. However, stick with it!!! Like a fine wine, the book got better as it when on! I was so engrossed in the story and couldn’t put it down!

This book is told in the third person, which isn’t always my favorite. It took a little getting used to, but overall did not affect how the story was being told. One thing that was once again confirmed for was that Mia is a mastermind when it comes to her writing! How she came up with the plot and the multiple twists, kept me easily intrigued.

Thank you so much Mia for this incredible opportunity. Your books are literal gold! I feel so privileged to have gotten the chance to read The Broken Places and I will be anxiously awaiting your next book!

Vous connaissez très certainement Mia Sheridan pour ses romances mais saviez-vous qu'elle écrit aussi des thrillers et je viens de finir son dernier en VO qui était vraiment très bien ficelé.

Lennon Gray est une enquêtrice hors pair qui va se voir octroyer un nouveau partenaire, issu du FBI en plus, pour mener l'enquête sur cette série de meurtres de plus en plus violents. Les victimes meurrent d'une overdose et ont tous des passés assez intense. Elle va donc chercher les indices et faire confiance à son co équipier. J'ai aimé le côté romance qui se distille bien dans le récit et qui ne tombe pas comme un cheveu sur la soupe. Elle est tenace et ne laissera rien passer . Elle va chercher les liens entre les victimes et nous allons tenter de découvrir le suspect. Si j'avais compris certaines choses, je n'avais pas vu venir un certain retournement.

Ambrose Mars est donc agent du FBI. Mis sur l'affaire, il va tenter d'apporter son aide. Ca va tout de suite matcher avec notre héroïne mais au final, on ne sait pas grand chose sur lui. On pourra faire des déductions mais on se forgera principalement notre avis avec le point de vue de notre héroïne. Il cherchera aussi à comprendre les motivations du criminel.

Les base sont bien posés et on sent aussi que cette émission de podcast, The Fringe, n'est pas là pour rien. Des doutes vont se lever mais aurons nous tort ou raison de douter. Puis nous allons faire des découvertes et la toile va se tisser davantage.

Bref, je ne peux pas vous en dire plus de peur de vous dévoiler des choses mais sachez que j'ai tourné les pages pour connaître enfin la verité. J'ai trouvé aussi l'épilogue original et il permet de clore parfaitement ce chapitre.

The Broken Places by Mia Sheridan is another fantastic read!
The story is packed with twists and unexpected turns, keeping me constantly on edge. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the author threw in another surprise, keeping the suspense fresh and making the story all the more gripping.
As always Sheridan’s writing skills were truly remarkable. The author's gripping plot that immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout.

This is a gripping and intense read that will captivate fans of dark, twisty thrillers and romantic suspense, particularly those who enjoy complex, emotionally charged stories that explore the intersection of crime, mental health, and the human condition.

I’m not even sure how to write a review for this book. I knew reading this book was going to be way out of my comfort zone. But Mia Sheridan is one of my favorite authors so I dug in.

Reading this story had me in a roll coaster of emotions, from cringe, shock, and tearing up. I love all the main characters in this story! San Francisco PD Inspector Lennon Gray and Agent Ambrose Mars were paired together to investigate missing homeless people. I will not be saying more than that. The ending and epilogue was great!!

Fragmented & raw

I loved the author's previous work so I was more than ecstatic to have received an e-ARC of The Broken Places.

I must admit it took me a while to get into this book, and even then I was torn whether I enjoyed it or not. The story-telling felt monotonous, almost sterile which on one hand did a nice job of painting the San Francisco's streets a dreary monochrome colour, but on the other, it also made me kind of float outside of the story instead of participating in the real investigation alongside with the characters. I was missing suspense, from the slow build-up to the unraveling of truth.

Without giving much away, I did like the use of hallucinogenic drugs in the way the author used them to support her plot scheme. The second half picked up the pace for me partly because of the fact that we learned about the essence of a particular "something" (as unbelievable and sci-fi-esque the something looked).

I'm not sure how to even categorise the book as the thriller elements never kicked in. Crime something, maybe?

Lastly, I wonder if a deleted chapter from between the final chapter and the epilogue exists...