This book was more than just a love story, it explores complex issues of loss, grief, and healing. Two broken hearts mending each others as they open their hearts to each other. From complex characters to the depth of development, it is abundantly clear that Shanora Williams' touch on this story is painted everywhere. Davina and Deke were beautiful characters and their romance was both tender and angsty in the most balanced way.
I will say that the plot was heavy and there may be some triggers for some so please heed those. The story is handled with care but it may not be for everyone due to the real issues depicted. Recommend for fans of Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC.

What a good book!! I really enjoyed this! I couldn’t put it down! My first time reading a book by this author but won’t be my last.

Beautiful Broken Love by Shanora Williams
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 3 December 2024

Seven months after the devastating loss of her husband Lew, Davina Klein-Roberts is struggling to move forward. To cope with her grief, she immerses herself in her work, driving her skincare line, Golden Oil Co., to viral success and nearing a major endorsement deal. However, the achievement feels incomplete without Lew.

A meeting with NBA star Deke Bishop, a potential brand ambassador, leaves Davina flustered. Deke’s charm and genuine interest extend beyond her products, and she soon learns he harbours his own pain. As Davina's feelings for Deke deepen, so does her guilt over moving on. She must confront whether the sorrow of her past will prevent her from embracing a hopeful future.

"Beautiful Broken Love" was my first experience with this author, and it turned out to be an immensely enjoyable and satisfying read. The plot masterfully combined elements of pain, angst, and loss, which kept me engaged and feeling a wide range of emotions throughout the story.

One of the standout aspects of the novel was the depth of the characters. The author skilfully explored themes of loss, grief, and healing, which made the characters incredibly relatable and multidimensional. Davina’s journey through her grief, and her gradual steps towards healing, were portrayed with such authenticity that it was impossible not to empathise with her. Similarly, Deke’s character was developed with a complexity that revealed his own struggles and vulnerabilities, adding another layer of richness to the narrative.

The romance between Davina and Deke was beautifully crafted. It felt natural and unforced, developing step by step in a way that allowed for a deep exploration of their dynamics. Their relationship was not just about romantic attraction; it delved into deeper themes of trust, support, and emotional healing. The gradual progression of their bond made their connection feel genuine and meaningful.

Additionally, the side characters were a delightful bonus to the story. They were not just background figures but played significant roles that enhanced the main narrative. Their support and interactions with Davina and Deke added warmth and depth to the story, making it more engaging and well-rounded.

Overall, "Beautiful Broken Love" is a poignant and heartfelt novel that I would highly recommend. The author's ability to weave complex emotions and deep character development into a compelling story is truly commendable.

I am eagerly looking forward to reading more from this talented author in the future.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Montlake, and the author, Shanora Williams, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

This book was amazing, it's my first time reading anything by Shanora but it won't be my last. The representation of anxiety and panic attacks is something I can relate to and was done very well. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this book early so I can gush about it to all my friends ready for release day.

This was such a good book. I can’t wait for December to come around so others can read it! Five star read!

Title: Beautiful Broken Love by Shanora Williams

Release Date: December, 3rd, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

In Beautiful Broken Love, Shanora Williams crafts an emotional page-turner about two people seeking solace and strength in each other after devastating losses.

This novel is a well written exploration of grief, healing, and the possibility of new beginnings.

Davina Klein-Roberts has spent seven agonising months grappling with the death of her husband, Lew. Her soulmate’s tragic death left her shattered and unsure how to move forward. To cope with her grief, Davina immerses herself in her work, driving her skincare line, Golden Oil Co., to viral success. A major endorsement deal is on the horizon, but it's bittersweet without Lew by her side.

Enter Deke Bishop, a charismatic NBA star who Davina hopes will endorse her brand. With his dimpled smile and warm demeanour, Deke leaves Davina both flustered and intrigued.

As she gets to know him, she discovers that Deke is not just another player; he carries his own burden of pain. As their connection deepens, Davina is torn between the guilt of moving on from Lew and the budding hope of a new future with Deke.


What I Liked:

* Deep Emotional Exploration: The book delves deeply into Davina’s grief and healing process, making her journey feel authentic and relatable. The traumas written in such a way that you cannot help but feel empathic towards her burdens and past.

* Complex Characters: Both Davina and Deke are well-developed characters with rich backstories and emotional depth. Their personal struggles and growth make their connection compelling and heart wrenching.

* Character Development: Davina’s evolution from a woman paralysed by grief to someone open to new possibilities is beautifully portrayed. I loved her character development, this was beautiful written and detailed.

* Realistic Romance: The romance between Davina and Deke unfolds naturally, capturing the complexities of moving on after a profound loss. It was realistic, and this is what I loved.

* Supportive Relationships: The book highlights the importance of supportive friendships and how they can help in the healing process. You can never heal on your own, and I loved that this message was in this story,

* Engaging Plot: The story is a perfect blend of heartache, hope, and healing, keeping readers invested from start to finish. I was so engaged, that I read this in one sitting.

Beautiful Broken Love is a heart-wrenching yet hopeful story that reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is a possibility of finding love and happiness again.

Shanora Williams has delivered a touching narrative that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced loss and found the strength to move forward.

Thank you to The Publisher Montlake, Members' Titles ,The Author Shanora Williams & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

Absolutely charming! The chemistry between the protagonists was electric, and the plot kept me hooked. Highly recommending it to the contemporary romance lovers.