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Freedom Trilogy #2
Broken Lives
Emma Greyson thought she had it all, until she was faced with Alec Collins’ ugly past.
While Alec tries to leave the past in the past and move on to the future, his wife, Molly, has other plans for her husband.
After Emma is stalked and taunted by Molly, Alec makes a decision that could change everything.
Will he stay with Emma? Will he leave and be with his wife and the mother of his daughter? Does Alec make the right choice? Only time will tell.
While Alec tries to leave the past in the past and move on to the future, his wife, Molly, has other plans for her husband.
After Emma is stalked and taunted by Molly, Alec makes a decision that could change everything.
Will he stay with Emma? Will he leave and be with his wife and the mother of his daughter? Does Alec make the right choice? Only time will tell.
240 pages, ebook
First published February 1, 2015
About the author
Brenda Kennedy
47 books371 followersBrenda Kennedy is an award winner, an Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and a Publishers Weekly bestselling author. She is a true believer of romance. Her stories are based on the relationships that define our lives - compassionate, emotionally gripping, and uplifting novels with true to life characters, that stay with her readers long after the last page is turned.
Her varied, not always pleasant background has given her the personal experience to take her readers on an emotional, sometimes heart wrenching, journey through her stories.
Brenda has been a struggling single mom, a survivor of domestic abuse, waitress, corrections officer, hostage negotiator and a corrections nurse. She is also a wife, mom, and grandmother. Even though her life was not always rainbows and butterflies, she is a survivor and believes her struggles have made her the person she is today.
Brenda is the author of the award winning book, Forever Country (The Rose Farm Trilogy Book 1). She has been dubbed "The Queen of Cliffhangers" by her adoring readers because books one and two always have a cliffhanger ending. In Brenda's own words, "I write series that end in cliffhangers, because I love them. I always give away the first book in each series so you have nothing to lose by reading it."
She was born and raised in Zanesville, Ohio and moved to SW Florida in 2006 with her husband Rex. They have a combined family, and she often jokes about not remembering what child belongs to who.
Her varied, not always pleasant background has given her the personal experience to take her readers on an emotional, sometimes heart wrenching, journey through her stories.
Brenda has been a struggling single mom, a survivor of domestic abuse, waitress, corrections officer, hostage negotiator and a corrections nurse. She is also a wife, mom, and grandmother. Even though her life was not always rainbows and butterflies, she is a survivor and believes her struggles have made her the person she is today.
Brenda is the author of the award winning book, Forever Country (The Rose Farm Trilogy Book 1). She has been dubbed "The Queen of Cliffhangers" by her adoring readers because books one and two always have a cliffhanger ending. In Brenda's own words, "I write series that end in cliffhangers, because I love them. I always give away the first book in each series so you have nothing to lose by reading it."
She was born and raised in Zanesville, Ohio and moved to SW Florida in 2006 with her husband Rex. They have a combined family, and she often jokes about not remembering what child belongs to who.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 30, 2015
WOW.
Emma and Alec took me on an emotional ride!!! I absolutely loved it!!!
This book picks up right were book one left off. Holy mother of all that is good, where did freaking Molly come from and who the hell told her she could bust the Alec and Emma bubble?
Alec's ugly past makes its appearance in this book in the form of his WIFE!!! Yes, he is married. But in his defense, we assumed Raelynn's mommy was dead. She was spoken of in the past tense and it just seemed as if she was. Little did we know the walking dead would cause so much havoc.
Molly, Alec's wife has a sad and painful story. This lady has put herself and her family through HELL!!! She has made choices and decisions that had her losing everything many have ever dreamed of having. Her choices cost her EVERYTHING. No way she can redeem herself or make it up. She sadly thinks she can walk into Alec's life and just pick up where she left off. NOT!!!
He has moved on. He is happy and has found love with a genuinely good person. She is perfect for him and his daughter and more importantly they love each other. But his lack of honesty can cause him to loose the one good thing since Molly left 10 months ago. Will Emma forgive him for not telling her about Molly?
Alec is struggling to keep his life in order wants and needs Emma. She is his balance but the nightmare known as Molly is just that, a nightmare. One that isn't going away no matter what he does. He is trying to keep his daughter safe and away from the poor excuse of a person her mother has become. Seeing Molly could be traumatizing for a child. Drug addiction is no joke and for a child to see her mother strung out can cause damage, so Alec is being cautious.
Molly's addiction has her doing crazy things. She is looking for her next high and is in desperate need of help. Will she go into rehab? Will she take the help that Alec and her parents are offering?
All the while Emma is trying to be the supportive girlfriend but knows that Molly can cause damage in her happy little world. Hearing Alec's story has her heartbroken for him and just sympathetic towards his situation. But will she be able to handle all that is being tossed at Alec? The drug addicted wife? Will love be enough to keep them together?
Brenda Kennedy gives us a raw look at drug addiction and the ugly it causes in a family. REAL LIFE SITUATIONS!!! I loved this installment and can't wait to see what happens with Alec and Emma and of course with the kids.
Emma and Alec took me on an emotional ride!!! I absolutely loved it!!!
This book picks up right were book one left off. Holy mother of all that is good, where did freaking Molly come from and who the hell told her she could bust the Alec and Emma bubble?
Alec's ugly past makes its appearance in this book in the form of his WIFE!!! Yes, he is married. But in his defense, we assumed Raelynn's mommy was dead. She was spoken of in the past tense and it just seemed as if she was. Little did we know the walking dead would cause so much havoc.
Molly, Alec's wife has a sad and painful story. This lady has put herself and her family through HELL!!! She has made choices and decisions that had her losing everything many have ever dreamed of having. Her choices cost her EVERYTHING. No way she can redeem herself or make it up. She sadly thinks she can walk into Alec's life and just pick up where she left off. NOT!!!
He has moved on. He is happy and has found love with a genuinely good person. She is perfect for him and his daughter and more importantly they love each other. But his lack of honesty can cause him to loose the one good thing since Molly left 10 months ago. Will Emma forgive him for not telling her about Molly?
Alec is struggling to keep his life in order wants and needs Emma. She is his balance but the nightmare known as Molly is just that, a nightmare. One that isn't going away no matter what he does. He is trying to keep his daughter safe and away from the poor excuse of a person her mother has become. Seeing Molly could be traumatizing for a child. Drug addiction is no joke and for a child to see her mother strung out can cause damage, so Alec is being cautious.
Molly's addiction has her doing crazy things. She is looking for her next high and is in desperate need of help. Will she go into rehab? Will she take the help that Alec and her parents are offering?
All the while Emma is trying to be the supportive girlfriend but knows that Molly can cause damage in her happy little world. Hearing Alec's story has her heartbroken for him and just sympathetic towards his situation. But will she be able to handle all that is being tossed at Alec? The drug addicted wife? Will love be enough to keep them together?
Brenda Kennedy gives us a raw look at drug addiction and the ugly it causes in a family. REAL LIFE SITUATIONS!!! I loved this installment and can't wait to see what happens with Alec and Emma and of course with the kids.
February 10, 2015
Favorite Quote:
“You are huge. If you get any bigger, astronomers will discover a new planet in the solar system.”
My Review:
Part 2 of this trilogy continues with the bittersweet love story of a young widowed mother finding new love with a divorced young father. I always find it so refreshing to read a romance novel when the conflict in the story is external rather than between the couple. This book is written in narrative form from four different points of view, although it is easy to maintain the flow and I was never confused. Ms. Kennedy does an excellent job of getting the point across of the sacrifices young military families make during deployments, as well as the aftermath of their injuries and loss, without beating us over the head with it. I also particularly enjoy how she handles the dream visitations and the messages Emma receives from her dead husband. This series has been sweet and tender as well as heart rendering.
“You are huge. If you get any bigger, astronomers will discover a new planet in the solar system.”
My Review:
Part 2 of this trilogy continues with the bittersweet love story of a young widowed mother finding new love with a divorced young father. I always find it so refreshing to read a romance novel when the conflict in the story is external rather than between the couple. This book is written in narrative form from four different points of view, although it is easy to maintain the flow and I was never confused. Ms. Kennedy does an excellent job of getting the point across of the sacrifices young military families make during deployments, as well as the aftermath of their injuries and loss, without beating us over the head with it. I also particularly enjoy how she handles the dream visitations and the messages Emma receives from her dead husband. This series has been sweet and tender as well as heart rendering.
February 7, 2015
I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review by author Brenda Kennedy. This is book 2 of the Freedom Trilogy series by the author.
Emma has her son James and her dreams to remember Max but now Alec is into her life more and more but his past could be a problem. Alec is in love with Emma but his past with Molly never came to light until she came back into his life just and that has brought up his past. Hopefully Emma and Alec can work things out.
This has some major character emotions in the story lines and how the author let things play out was great. I thought book 1 was good but this book is a lot better because it shows honest emotional struggle trying to do the right thing.
This is for any mature romance book lover out there. This story starts where book 1 ends so it is best to read the books in order.
Emma has her son James and her dreams to remember Max but now Alec is into her life more and more but his past could be a problem. Alec is in love with Emma but his past with Molly never came to light until she came back into his life just and that has brought up his past. Hopefully Emma and Alec can work things out.
This has some major character emotions in the story lines and how the author let things play out was great. I thought book 1 was good but this book is a lot better because it shows honest emotional struggle trying to do the right thing.
This is for any mature romance book lover out there. This story starts where book 1 ends so it is best to read the books in order.
March 18, 2017
Broken Lives is book two of the Freedom Trilogy. Again, I’m not quite sure how to review this book. One the one hand, the story is good. On the other hand, the writing is mediocre at best. The characters are engaging, but you really have to see behind the way they are portrayed. It almost seems like the author isn’t willing to let them be themselves, they are written almost as secondary to the story rather than being the story. The entire time I was reading I felt like I was being given a scene-by-scene description rather than having a story woven together with characters and dialogue.
The story opens right where Shattered Dreams ended. Both books are written from alternating POVs. In this book, Molly's POV is added into the story and toward end her "boyfriend," Bobby chimes in. Theirs is a destructive relationship better described as co-dependents.
Alec, Emma, Raelynn, and James are moving on with their lives and building a future together until Molly becomes threatening. Actually, though, there isn't a whole lot of drama involved in their interactions. There is so much that could be done with this story, but the author just doesn't take it to the next level. Again, the story is good and the characters would be great if they were let loose to "live" instead of the author constantly restraining them.
This book is a cliffhanger. While I'd like to see what happens to Alec and Emma, I'm sure it will be an HEA, I'm not really sure I want to spend the $3.99 for Book Three. The main reason I jumped into this one right after Shattered Dreams is that I already had it downloaded. I don't have high hopes for a change in writing style.
The story opens right where Shattered Dreams ended. Both books are written from alternating POVs. In this book, Molly's POV is added into the story and toward end her "boyfriend," Bobby chimes in. Theirs is a destructive relationship better described as co-dependents.
Alec, Emma, Raelynn, and James are moving on with their lives and building a future together until Molly becomes threatening. Actually, though, there isn't a whole lot of drama involved in their interactions. There is so much that could be done with this story, but the author just doesn't take it to the next level. Again, the story is good and the characters would be great if they were let loose to "live" instead of the author constantly restraining them.
This book is a cliffhanger. While I'd like to see what happens to Alec and Emma, I'm sure it will be an HEA, I'm not really sure I want to spend the $3.99 for Book Three. The main reason I jumped into this one right after Shattered Dreams is that I already had it downloaded. I don't have high hopes for a change in writing style.
February 1, 2015
May Contain Spoilers!!! Wow!! I just finished Broken Lives, the second book in this series by Brenda Kennedy. This book had me in tears alot of the time much like the first book but this was for a totally different reason. This book picks up right where the first one leaves us, telling the story of a young widow that falls in love with a handsome doctor. I didn't mention his marital status because within minutes we learn that everything is not as it seems. So we meet Molly, his estranged wife that he has not seen in a year due to her erratic, unpredictable behavior and mostly because of her drug and alcohol addiction. Now my guess is that many readers are not going to be cheerleaders for Molly or wishing her the best and believe me, she is not my favorite character and I certainly don't want her to get back together with Alec but I am sympathetic and I do understand to an extent what she is going through. I understand because I have been in her shoes. I am a nurse and I unfortunately became addicted to prescription pain meds and like Molly, I lost my job because I didn't think about the consequences of my actions but only of easing the physical and mental pain I was facing. Luckily it only took me one time to learn my lesson, I have been clean for 8 years, still have my nursing license and still rely on the love and support of other addicts in Narcotics Anonymous. But I feel for Molly because I know what it feels like to be on the outside looking in, to feel that literally every person that looks at you is judging you and the absolute physical agony of withdrawal symptoms. I am sure there are some people out there that think a drug addict deserves to go through physical pain to withdraw but becoming an addict isn't usually a choice you consciously make. You don't wake up one day and say "hey I think I will become addicted to drugs today!" They do, however, make the choice to stop. We watch Molly struggle with the choice because she wanted her old life back, she wanted back what she lost because of her decisions. She just seemed to go about it the wrong way with the threats and stalking. Hopefully it is not too late for her to change, she already took the most important first step and asked for help. I am sure book 3 will reveal whether she followed through or not. I hope I didn't spoil it too much for anyone but it was important for me to talk about Molly and how much we have in common. I love Emma and Alec and want them to be happy together but I also think Molly deserves to be happy also. And since we are talking about Molly, my heart sure went out to Bobby when he was reliving the accident and losing his little girl. Oh how sad!! Maybe he will turn his life around too. I also love staying in touch with other book characters like Angel and Mason, so happy for them. They feel like real life friends because when Brenda creates them in her books, she makes them come to life. She is truly an amazing author that I am so glad to have found. I can't wait for the third book. It won't be very comfortable sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for it but that is where Brenda has left me once again!!!
So I applaud her for another FIVE STAR book and commend her for her ability to create realistic characters get her readers emotionally invested. To me, that is something that an author cannot fake and a book cannot thrive without.
So I applaud her for another FIVE STAR book and commend her for her ability to create realistic characters get her readers emotionally invested. To me, that is something that an author cannot fake and a book cannot thrive without.
February 8, 2015
I loved Alec and Emma in Broken Dreams and was keen to catch up with them in this the second book in the series. And the book delivered everything I have come to expect from Brenda Kennedy.
Jam packed with emotion!
Alec is dealing with an unwanted visitor from his past, his wife, Molly.
I know took me by surprise too!!
Knowing Alec, this surprise appearance gave me chills because I knew that there had to be a painful history there for him to have shut her out so completely from not just his but his daughter’s life.
What I hadn’t expected was the full extent of that agony and the unravelling of the horrors that Molly had not just inflicted on herself but subjected her family too.
This sad woman has hit rock bottom and as deluded as she is, there is just no chance that Alec will ever be able to forgive and forget. Alec has a life now that she is no longer a part of, he has plans that mean his future lies with Emma, she is all he needs and more to the point, all he wants.
But having kept Molly a secret up until now is a bitter pill to swallow for Emma, she has only ever needed his honesty and by omission he failed her. But Alec can’t and won’t give up on what they have together, she is everything to him, the light at the end of what has been a very dark tunnel, one that doesn’t seem to want to go away.
Molly has lost everything in her battle with drugs, a fight that she is still in the grips of and that has her making decisions that are not in anyone’s best interest. But can she see beyond her next fix and face up to the fact that she needs the help that both her parents and Alec are offering to her? Addiction is drowning her and the chance to save herself is agonisingly close but she has to want to go to rehab, they can’t force her, maybe her daughter will be enough to help her face the demons and get her life back on track, I have everything crossed that she can garner some inner strength and battle back to be the mother her little girl deserves.
But Alec on the other hand will never go back, his bridges with Molly are well and truly burnt, his only worry now is how to protect his daughter from the reality that is her drug addict mother.
What a situation to face!
As much as I loved both Alec and Emma and in this book it was for completely different reasons, I have to say that the storyline with Molly had me completely entranced. It is the most difficult of subject matters to include in a book that is trying to show that life in all its many guises is complex.
Alec had a good thing with Emma and she had an empathy and compassion for him that was just beautiful to read but they were in a situation where the main protagonist in their lives was beyond their control, beyond even her own control – she was been driven irrationally and uncontrollable into a place that could see them all fall apart.
Emma was doing everything she could to stand by her man but only time will tell if they can truly survive the pain that Molly has brought into their lives and to take the leap they want in order to prove that their love is enough and they will survive.
Jam packed with emotion!
Alec is dealing with an unwanted visitor from his past, his wife, Molly.
I know took me by surprise too!!
Knowing Alec, this surprise appearance gave me chills because I knew that there had to be a painful history there for him to have shut her out so completely from not just his but his daughter’s life.
What I hadn’t expected was the full extent of that agony and the unravelling of the horrors that Molly had not just inflicted on herself but subjected her family too.
This sad woman has hit rock bottom and as deluded as she is, there is just no chance that Alec will ever be able to forgive and forget. Alec has a life now that she is no longer a part of, he has plans that mean his future lies with Emma, she is all he needs and more to the point, all he wants.
But having kept Molly a secret up until now is a bitter pill to swallow for Emma, she has only ever needed his honesty and by omission he failed her. But Alec can’t and won’t give up on what they have together, she is everything to him, the light at the end of what has been a very dark tunnel, one that doesn’t seem to want to go away.
Molly has lost everything in her battle with drugs, a fight that she is still in the grips of and that has her making decisions that are not in anyone’s best interest. But can she see beyond her next fix and face up to the fact that she needs the help that both her parents and Alec are offering to her? Addiction is drowning her and the chance to save herself is agonisingly close but she has to want to go to rehab, they can’t force her, maybe her daughter will be enough to help her face the demons and get her life back on track, I have everything crossed that she can garner some inner strength and battle back to be the mother her little girl deserves.
But Alec on the other hand will never go back, his bridges with Molly are well and truly burnt, his only worry now is how to protect his daughter from the reality that is her drug addict mother.
What a situation to face!
As much as I loved both Alec and Emma and in this book it was for completely different reasons, I have to say that the storyline with Molly had me completely entranced. It is the most difficult of subject matters to include in a book that is trying to show that life in all its many guises is complex.
Alec had a good thing with Emma and she had an empathy and compassion for him that was just beautiful to read but they were in a situation where the main protagonist in their lives was beyond their control, beyond even her own control – she was been driven irrationally and uncontrollable into a place that could see them all fall apart.
Emma was doing everything she could to stand by her man but only time will tell if they can truly survive the pain that Molly has brought into their lives and to take the leap they want in order to prove that their love is enough and they will survive.
April 25, 2015
This picked up right where they left off in book one which I love because that way I don't have to remember what was happening when I finished the first book.
Emma has fallen in love with Alec and his daughter Raelynn. She gets a second chance to find the love of her life and be happy. To have a family for James. Since Max has died it's been hard for her and James but she has been doing a great job with James. James loves Alec and Raelynn. But Alec didn't mention he was still married but she didn't ask either.
I cry everytime Max visits Emma in her dreams. It is written with pure emotion and it's like I was watching it happening. Max is watching them from Heaven and visits them in their dreams when they need him. The last time Max visited he told her something and she gets to put it to good lose. Emma has a lot of questions about Alec, she is still trying to live without her one true love Max. She knows Alec won't hurt her and there are always two sides to a story. Maybe she should listen to Alec and see what his side of the story is now.
Alec's soon to be x-wife has big issues. She can't stand to see Emma in love with her soon to be X-husband Alec and her daughter Raelynn. Molly can't figure where she lost everything she had. Everytime I think Molly is going to come to the terms that everyone has moved on and she needs too also. I feel sorry for Molly. She wants to get well but the drugs have a hold over her and it kills her to see Alec and Raelynn so happy without her. Thats what broken up relationships are made for, making you deal with your past and try to put your ghosts to sleep.
You need to read book one and this one also. Each time I read more and more about Alec and Emma, I fall deeper in love with them both. Raelynn and James are such cuties. I wish my kids acted as good as those two do in the book!! Remember I give this book 5 BIG stars because this is the kind of books I love to read!!! Read it!!! You won't be disappointed!
Emma has fallen in love with Alec and his daughter Raelynn. She gets a second chance to find the love of her life and be happy. To have a family for James. Since Max has died it's been hard for her and James but she has been doing a great job with James. James loves Alec and Raelynn. But Alec didn't mention he was still married but she didn't ask either.
I cry everytime Max visits Emma in her dreams. It is written with pure emotion and it's like I was watching it happening. Max is watching them from Heaven and visits them in their dreams when they need him. The last time Max visited he told her something and she gets to put it to good lose. Emma has a lot of questions about Alec, she is still trying to live without her one true love Max. She knows Alec won't hurt her and there are always two sides to a story. Maybe she should listen to Alec and see what his side of the story is now.
Alec's soon to be x-wife has big issues. She can't stand to see Emma in love with her soon to be X-husband Alec and her daughter Raelynn. Molly can't figure where she lost everything she had. Everytime I think Molly is going to come to the terms that everyone has moved on and she needs too also. I feel sorry for Molly. She wants to get well but the drugs have a hold over her and it kills her to see Alec and Raelynn so happy without her. Thats what broken up relationships are made for, making you deal with your past and try to put your ghosts to sleep.
You need to read book one and this one also. Each time I read more and more about Alec and Emma, I fall deeper in love with them both. Raelynn and James are such cuties. I wish my kids acted as good as those two do in the book!! Remember I give this book 5 BIG stars because this is the kind of books I love to read!!! Read it!!! You won't be disappointed!
February 10, 2015
I just finished reading Broken Lives by Brenda Kennedy. This is the second book in the Freedom trilogy. A person from the past comes back in the picture and threatens to tear Emma and Alec apart. They find they must protect each other and their children and fight hard for each other. Can they keep fighting for each other or will they give in and let the blast from the past win?
I really loved this book. It was emotionally stimulating and very suspenseful. I love how the author put many points of view in this book. I feel like I could really understand and relate to all the characters better that way. I felt for each of them and I rooted for the ones who were fighting hard. I really feel that it needs to be said that Shattered Dreams needs to be read before this book. This is the second book in the Freedom trilogy. It can be read alone, but a reader would understand the story better if they read Shattered Dreams first.
Other than a few typos here and there, there was nothing really wrong with this book. I’m sure the few typos I’ve caught were already fixed by now. The book was very well written. It was very detailed. It was very emotionally gripping. It’s hard not to become emotionally attached to the characters in the story. It’s hard not to fall in love with Emma and Alec. It’s even harder not to fall in love with the children.
I fully recommend this book. It’s especially for those who love to have their emotions tickled and teased. It will keep a reader on the edge to the very end. Shattered Dreams does as well. I dare any reader to read this book and not fall in love with at least one of the main characters. I’m so honored that I have gotten the chance to read this book and the first one. I can’t wait to get my hands on the third book.
I really loved this book. It was emotionally stimulating and very suspenseful. I love how the author put many points of view in this book. I feel like I could really understand and relate to all the characters better that way. I felt for each of them and I rooted for the ones who were fighting hard. I really feel that it needs to be said that Shattered Dreams needs to be read before this book. This is the second book in the Freedom trilogy. It can be read alone, but a reader would understand the story better if they read Shattered Dreams first.
Other than a few typos here and there, there was nothing really wrong with this book. I’m sure the few typos I’ve caught were already fixed by now. The book was very well written. It was very detailed. It was very emotionally gripping. It’s hard not to become emotionally attached to the characters in the story. It’s hard not to fall in love with Emma and Alec. It’s even harder not to fall in love with the children.
I fully recommend this book. It’s especially for those who love to have their emotions tickled and teased. It will keep a reader on the edge to the very end. Shattered Dreams does as well. I dare any reader to read this book and not fall in love with at least one of the main characters. I’m so honored that I have gotten the chance to read this book and the first one. I can’t wait to get my hands on the third book.
April 4, 2015
Wow! A totally amazing read!
The heartbreak and real emotions that the author puts in this book are just plain overwhelming....such a joy to read.
After leaving book one with that cliffhanger: Emma wants nothing to do with Alec but she gets a dream with Max telling her to use her heart and things are not what they seem. But Alec has already decided not to give up on what he could have with this amazing woman and asks her to hear him out. This time Emma remembers Max's words and listen to her heart.
I mean how cool is that! Having your own personal angel giving you comfort and helping hand. Just such a sweet touch and so nice to still have Max with us as he seemed like a wonderful guy......and so sad to have him die.
Things start to heat up between Alec and Emma when Alec's secret leads him and Rae to move into Emma's house. They all just blend so well together creating a nice family. I love how they include their friends and family (including ex-in-laws) and everyone gets along thus giving both kids a big loving family.
Alec's crazy ex has such a big, crazy, & messy addiction that she causes problems between them. Alec though is determined to have 'everything' with Emma and will do whatever it takes even if it means helping out his ex. Another visit from Max warns her that someone is going to need her help.
Which leaves us with another little cliffhanger involving their future and his ex.
These books are well written and such an emotional read...that you will still need some tissues handy for those tears. I love how the characters from Saving Angel keep popping up giving you updates into their lives. Can't wait for the final book in this series.
The heartbreak and real emotions that the author puts in this book are just plain overwhelming....such a joy to read.
After leaving book one with that cliffhanger: Emma wants nothing to do with Alec but she gets a dream with Max telling her to use her heart and things are not what they seem. But Alec has already decided not to give up on what he could have with this amazing woman and asks her to hear him out. This time Emma remembers Max's words and listen to her heart.
I mean how cool is that! Having your own personal angel giving you comfort and helping hand. Just such a sweet touch and so nice to still have Max with us as he seemed like a wonderful guy......and so sad to have him die.
Things start to heat up between Alec and Emma when Alec's secret leads him and Rae to move into Emma's house. They all just blend so well together creating a nice family. I love how they include their friends and family (including ex-in-laws) and everyone gets along thus giving both kids a big loving family.
Alec's crazy ex has such a big, crazy, & messy addiction that she causes problems between them. Alec though is determined to have 'everything' with Emma and will do whatever it takes even if it means helping out his ex. Another visit from Max warns her that someone is going to need her help.
Which leaves us with another little cliffhanger involving their future and his ex.
These books are well written and such an emotional read...that you will still need some tissues handy for those tears. I love how the characters from Saving Angel keep popping up giving you updates into their lives. Can't wait for the final book in this series.
February 15, 2015
'I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review'
Emma is devastated when Molly appears. When Alec is actually able to talk to her and explain the whole painful situation with Molly Emma is determined to be there for Alec and Rae and even though Molly stalks and threatens Emma she still feels the need to help her.
Alec can't believe Molly came back. All he wants is a new life with Emma and the kids. He is devastated when he realizes that he could have lost Emma. Even though he knows it may be pointless he still tries to help Molly. But no matter what he will not let her ruin the life that he is building with the kids and Emma.
I can't get enough of Brenda Kennedy's books. I absolutely LOVED this book. Brenda is good at writing Amazing and Emotional books that drag you in from the beginning and leave you wanting more! I am very impatiently waiting for the next book in the series. I need more! I definitely recommend reading. You do need to start with book 1, Shattered Dreams. Or better yet, start with the Starting Over trilogy and read Angel and Mason's story! The series can be read separately although they are all intertwined. Each book in both series are AMAZING and you will not be disappointed!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
February 13, 2015
Review of Broken Lives (Book 2) by Brenda Kennedy
Review done for Hooked on Books
4 out of 5 stars
Emma Greyson has been lucky enough to find true love twice. After moving on with her life after the death of her first husband Max, Emma is making a new life with Alec. Emma believes that Alec is it for her and her son, but unfortunately his past will do whatever she can to stop them.
Alec hasn’t seen his wife for over a year and has finally decided to move ahead with his life. He is head over heels in love with Emma. Everything is perfect until Molly is back in the picture.
Alec will do everything he can to protect his daughter and Emma from Molly. Alec has to make some serious choices that will affect everyone. Molly is determined to get her family back.
I was so happy that Emma was given a second chance at happiness. Unfortunately for her, it is not going to be easy. She has already gone through so much tragedy that I hope she gets her happy ending. Alec is wonderful for Emma and her son. They all make a beautiful family.
This book was great. It truly emphasized the difficulties of bringing people with two separate families together. Alec and Emma truly love each other and I hope they are strong enough to keep it together.
I cannot wait to read book 3.
Review done for Hooked on Books
4 out of 5 stars
Emma Greyson has been lucky enough to find true love twice. After moving on with her life after the death of her first husband Max, Emma is making a new life with Alec. Emma believes that Alec is it for her and her son, but unfortunately his past will do whatever she can to stop them.
Alec hasn’t seen his wife for over a year and has finally decided to move ahead with his life. He is head over heels in love with Emma. Everything is perfect until Molly is back in the picture.
Alec will do everything he can to protect his daughter and Emma from Molly. Alec has to make some serious choices that will affect everyone. Molly is determined to get her family back.
I was so happy that Emma was given a second chance at happiness. Unfortunately for her, it is not going to be easy. She has already gone through so much tragedy that I hope she gets her happy ending. Alec is wonderful for Emma and her son. They all make a beautiful family.
This book was great. It truly emphasized the difficulties of bringing people with two separate families together. Alec and Emma truly love each other and I hope they are strong enough to keep it together.
I cannot wait to read book 3.
February 14, 2015
Review done for Hooked on Books
4 out of 5 stars
Emma Greyson has been lucky enough to find true love twice. After moving on with her life after the death of her first husband Max, Emma is making a new life with Alec. Emma believes that Alec is it for her and her son, but unfortunately his past will do whatever she can to stop them.
Alec hasn’t seen his wife for over a year and has finally decided to move ahead with his life. He is head over heels in love with Emma. Everything is perfect until Molly is back in the picture.
Alec will do everything he can to protect his daughter and Emma from Molly. Alec has to make some serious choices that will affect everyone. Molly is determined to get her family back.
I was so happy that Emma was given a second chance at happiness. Unfortunately for her, it is not going to be easy. She has already gone through so much tragedy that I hope she gets her happy ending. Alec is wonderful for Emma and her son. They all make a beautiful family.
This book was great. It truly emphasized the difficulties of bringing people with two separate families together. Alec and Emma truly love each other and I hope they are strong enough to keep it together.
I cannot wait to read book 3.
February 15, 2015
4.5 out of 5 Stars
This is what is called a soft romance novel. If you just want the romance story with no x-rated scenes, this is your genre.
Broken Lives is the sequel to Shattered Dreams. Our military widow Emma has been raising her son James by herself after losing her husband Max on his last tour of duty. She is kind, intelligent, a sweetheart to all. After meeting Alex, they are drawn to each other. They seem to fit and their love only grows stronger as their two families begin to blend.
When we left Emma and Alec at the end of Shattered Dreams, Molly (Alec's estranged wife-soon-to-be-ex) had just reappeared after a year missing. Before she left, Molly had been battling her drug addiction. Now, Alec must face again the fact that Molly is still a drug addict. How can he protect his daughter Raelynn from her mother's addiction?
Broken Lives deals with Molly's addiction and the impact this has on the entire family. Emma and Alec must make decisions to protect their children, continue to build their own relationship, and not turn their backs on Molly who is in desperate need for their help.
This is a gentle romantic story that will tug at your hearts. A mother's love knows no limits. No matter how low she has fallen.
This is what is called a soft romance novel. If you just want the romance story with no x-rated scenes, this is your genre.
Broken Lives is the sequel to Shattered Dreams. Our military widow Emma has been raising her son James by herself after losing her husband Max on his last tour of duty. She is kind, intelligent, a sweetheart to all. After meeting Alex, they are drawn to each other. They seem to fit and their love only grows stronger as their two families begin to blend.
When we left Emma and Alec at the end of Shattered Dreams, Molly (Alec's estranged wife-soon-to-be-ex) had just reappeared after a year missing. Before she left, Molly had been battling her drug addiction. Now, Alec must face again the fact that Molly is still a drug addict. How can he protect his daughter Raelynn from her mother's addiction?
Broken Lives deals with Molly's addiction and the impact this has on the entire family. Emma and Alec must make decisions to protect their children, continue to build their own relationship, and not turn their backs on Molly who is in desperate need for their help.
This is a gentle romantic story that will tug at your hearts. A mother's love knows no limits. No matter how low she has fallen.
February 8, 2015
*****Was given this book for an honest review. This is the second book in this series. We continue Emma and Alec story starting with them becoming a couple and family as well. I loved how these two where together the chemistry was true and with kids it made even better. In this book we are dealing with Alec ex Molly who has a problem with drugs and doesn't care who she hurts especially her daughter. I truly love the flow of this story it wasn't rushed or pushed, but we get to see what a family goes through when somebody close to you has problems. I'm going to lie, I did cry at times, but a laughed as well. It was sad, but happy to see how Max still affected Emma in a positive way and in the end she knew what he was saying to her. This story is amazing one that anyone will enjoy, I promise you that. I'm going to say this Author Brenda Kennedy did it again and I can't wait for the conclusion of this story to see what happens with Emma and Alec story. Please if you've read this series give it a try and I promise you'll not be disappointed. Author Brenda Kennedy truly did an awesome job.
October 1, 2015
Ms. Kennedy did an awesome job in writing this story BUT it's lacking the WOW factor.
First couple of chapters were great. I was already thinking, this is going to be so much better than the first one. BUT it started to just feel monotone. Kinda like when you listen to a preacher and he uses the same tone of voice the whole time and by the end you are asking yourself, What was said? That is how this book was.
I didn't really connect witht the characters. and I really didn't see what the point of being inside Bobby's head. Bobby is Molly's friend. The one I am guessing she "loves." but why do I need to know why he is missed up and on drugs? It seems irrelevant to the story.
I would love to read book three. Just to find out how everything comes together, but It has been less than 24 hours and I don't even have the urge to go buy it. (which is unusual for me) Book two obviously leaves you hangin but it didn't leave me wanting to buy the next book. Sorry :(
I really hate I can't give this book more than 3 stars. It had so much potential. For me personally, ait needed little less politeness and alot of WOW.
I won't be buying book 3 right now, if at all
First couple of chapters were great. I was already thinking, this is going to be so much better than the first one. BUT it started to just feel monotone. Kinda like when you listen to a preacher and he uses the same tone of voice the whole time and by the end you are asking yourself, What was said? That is how this book was.
I didn't really connect witht the characters. and I really didn't see what the point of being inside Bobby's head. Bobby is Molly's friend. The one I am guessing she "loves." but why do I need to know why he is missed up and on drugs? It seems irrelevant to the story.
I would love to read book three. Just to find out how everything comes together, but It has been less than 24 hours and I don't even have the urge to go buy it. (which is unusual for me) Book two obviously leaves you hangin but it didn't leave me wanting to buy the next book. Sorry :(
I really hate I can't give this book more than 3 stars. It had so much potential. For me personally, ait needed little less politeness and alot of WOW.
I won't be buying book 3 right now, if at all
February 2, 2015
Emma Greyson has been to hell and back, and came through it with a huge heart and a heart open to love. The love of her life, her son have been two against the world.
Alec Collins is a kind man with the sweetest woman in his life, his daughter. They also live one day at a time, because they never know what will happen from one day to the next
Once these two people who have experienced loss in their life join together, all should be bright, right? You would hope so.
But the only thing colliding is their past. Can they overcome it? Can the people from their past let these two be happy or will they walk away from each other to find peace. The choice is theirs to make
Start with Book one: Shattered Dreams (Freedom Trilogy Book 1)
http://amzn.to/1sxVzh8
You will love it, and it gives you the back ground you will need to catch up to book two, which is moving, and at times will tug on your heart strings. This is definitely a story not to miss. You will feel for them and the struggles, but also cheer for their strength.
Alec Collins is a kind man with the sweetest woman in his life, his daughter. They also live one day at a time, because they never know what will happen from one day to the next
Once these two people who have experienced loss in their life join together, all should be bright, right? You would hope so.
But the only thing colliding is their past. Can they overcome it? Can the people from their past let these two be happy or will they walk away from each other to find peace. The choice is theirs to make
Start with Book one: Shattered Dreams (Freedom Trilogy Book 1)
http://amzn.to/1sxVzh8
You will love it, and it gives you the back ground you will need to catch up to book two, which is moving, and at times will tug on your heart strings. This is definitely a story not to miss. You will feel for them and the struggles, but also cheer for their strength.
February 6, 2015
Another emotional 5 star read from Brenda Kennedy.
I am completely in love with this series. I couldn't love Alec more if I tried. He's the most amazing, patient, perfect father and lover.
And he's honest. Completely and totally honest about Molly, while I was a bit irritated that he didn't mention her in the beginning I understand his reasoning. Protecting his daughter was his number one job, until he met Emma and now he has three people to protect.
Broken Lives picks up right where Shattered Dreams left off, with Alec & Emma walking in to find Molly in Alec's bed. From there things seem to go downhill for Alec & Emma, though Alec fights hard to get through to Emma.
Alec has to protect his daughter and now Emma & James as well from Molly.
And then the inevitable happens and Molly relapses.
And once again the very last page of the book is a shocker, leaving me with my mouth hanging open saying what just happened?
Can't wait for book three, I really need to see what happens and if Emma and Alec can have a life together.
I am completely in love with this series. I couldn't love Alec more if I tried. He's the most amazing, patient, perfect father and lover.
And he's honest. Completely and totally honest about Molly, while I was a bit irritated that he didn't mention her in the beginning I understand his reasoning. Protecting his daughter was his number one job, until he met Emma and now he has three people to protect.
Broken Lives picks up right where Shattered Dreams left off, with Alec & Emma walking in to find Molly in Alec's bed. From there things seem to go downhill for Alec & Emma, though Alec fights hard to get through to Emma.
Alec has to protect his daughter and now Emma & James as well from Molly.
And then the inevitable happens and Molly relapses.
And once again the very last page of the book is a shocker, leaving me with my mouth hanging open saying what just happened?
Can't wait for book three, I really need to see what happens and if Emma and Alec can have a life together.
January 15, 2015
*** obsessed by books arc given for an honest review ***
this book was so touching. we got see Emma and Alec grow in their relationship. Molly, Alec's wife/ex-wife shows make up from being for a year to claim she wants Alec and Raelynn back but she can't stand clean from drugs long enough. Emma comes face to face with Molly and will have to decided to make a hard decision concerning Molly. Alec gets to experience James getting a letter from Max and he also gets to meet Maz's military family. Alec loves Emma so much that is ready to take the next step with her and James, so he hopes he can move from his past to work on his future. Both Alec and Emma have to make some hard decision through out their relationship that will not be easy but will make them stronger. this definitely a five star read. this book is about love and strength to help those that aren't deserving . emma is truly a strong person. loved this book so much.
this book was so touching. we got see Emma and Alec grow in their relationship. Molly, Alec's wife/ex-wife shows make up from being for a year to claim she wants Alec and Raelynn back but she can't stand clean from drugs long enough. Emma comes face to face with Molly and will have to decided to make a hard decision concerning Molly. Alec gets to experience James getting a letter from Max and he also gets to meet Maz's military family. Alec loves Emma so much that is ready to take the next step with her and James, so he hopes he can move from his past to work on his future. Both Alec and Emma have to make some hard decision through out their relationship that will not be easy but will make them stronger. this definitely a five star read. this book is about love and strength to help those that aren't deserving . emma is truly a strong person. loved this book so much.
February 2, 2015
I was provided with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I really loved this book and this series. It is a sweet story about love, loss, strength and learning to live your life after tragedy strikes.
Emma has opened herself up to love, four years after losing her husband Max. Alec appears to be her second chance on love an a happy life, that is until his estranged wife shows up. A wife that he never told Emma he was still married to.
Will Emma be able to trust Max, after that trust has been violated? Will Alec be able to move on this his life now that his wife has returned.
I really like that this story is so sweet. It is a classic romance, not an erotic romance. The reader can deeply identify with the characters, and gains an understanding of how their personalities mesh, and why they are meant to be.
Book One, Shattered Dreams must be read before this book, but that too is an enjoyable must read. Cannot wait for book 3 in the series.
Emma has opened herself up to love, four years after losing her husband Max. Alec appears to be her second chance on love an a happy life, that is until his estranged wife shows up. A wife that he never told Emma he was still married to.
Will Emma be able to trust Max, after that trust has been violated? Will Alec be able to move on this his life now that his wife has returned.
I really like that this story is so sweet. It is a classic romance, not an erotic romance. The reader can deeply identify with the characters, and gains an understanding of how their personalities mesh, and why they are meant to be.
Book One, Shattered Dreams must be read before this book, but that too is an enjoyable must read. Cannot wait for book 3 in the series.
January 20, 2015
Oh WOW! Brenda Kennedy does it again. I fell in love with the main characters in Shattered Dreams and didn't think she could pull me in any more than I already was, but she did! I even found my self stunned and feeling deeply when I didn't think it was possible. It was emotional on so many levels and I was pulled into Broken Lives just as I was Shattered Dreams. This author really grabs you by the heart and makes you even love how good it even hurts.
Traumatic events and even new stories are discovered in this 2nd book of this trilogy. I was at aw and even shocked though out Broken Lives. I really makes you feel more and consider more with you hear and mind, a different prospective. I can not wait for book 3!
If you want a good emotional romance that you can't put down, then this is the trilogy you need to be reading!
Traumatic events and even new stories are discovered in this 2nd book of this trilogy. I was at aw and even shocked though out Broken Lives. I really makes you feel more and consider more with you hear and mind, a different prospective. I can not wait for book 3!
If you want a good emotional romance that you can't put down, then this is the trilogy you need to be reading!
April 8, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Broken Lives picks up right where Shattered Dreams left off. Emma has Alec in her life now, and as much as I don't want to like him... he grows on you. His past comes back to bite him in the butt. Which in turn could ruin everything Emma and him had going. The past being his "wife" Molly.
It's nice to see how much Emma has grown. Alec is a HUGE part of that. He's helping her move on with her life, but not forget about Max at the same time. It's a lovely thing to see. In fact Alec goes out of his way to make sure Max isn't ever forgotten.
I cried, I laughed, I had some "ugh really" moments. Overall though it was a good read. I can't wait to read Mending Hearts to find out what happens next.
There is soooo much more I want to know.
4 stars from me :)
Broken Lives picks up right where Shattered Dreams left off. Emma has Alec in her life now, and as much as I don't want to like him... he grows on you. His past comes back to bite him in the butt. Which in turn could ruin everything Emma and him had going. The past being his "wife" Molly.
It's nice to see how much Emma has grown. Alec is a HUGE part of that. He's helping her move on with her life, but not forget about Max at the same time. It's a lovely thing to see. In fact Alec goes out of his way to make sure Max isn't ever forgotten.
I cried, I laughed, I had some "ugh really" moments. Overall though it was a good read. I can't wait to read Mending Hearts to find out what happens next.
There is soooo much more I want to know.
4 stars from me :)
February 9, 2015
Alec thought his wife that left him and their daughter over a year ago was dead. What a surprise to find her in their old bed naked. Shock would be a nice way of putting it. Emma feels like she has been played or lied to as she had no idea she could be still alive and on the night they were going to bring their relationship to the next level. Can they bring all of their Broken pieces back together, can they both over come the pass hurts so they can live their lives the way destiny wants' They have Hurtles to over come but Emma is ready to welcome the Love she gets from Alex as she second Chance at True Love. Alex is ready to move on and bring their families together as one, but Molly has other plans. I love this couple and so can't wait for more.
January 13, 2015
Brenda has done it again with such a wonderful story. This is the continuation of Alec and Emma and after the doozy of a cliffhanger in the first book we finally get anwers to who Molly is. Molly is such a train wreck and you can tell Alec feels bad in some ways in regards to what is going on with her but on the other hand he just wants to move on with Emma and her son and his daughter and build a family together. Another cliffhanger at the end but it wasnt as bad as the first book. Emma proves time and time again that she is such a strong resilient woman and that she defitnely wants to be with Alec but yet at times you can see the doubt start to creep up on her especially with everything going on with Molly.
Looking forward to book three and see how everything goes for them.
Looking forward to book three and see how everything goes for them.
January 12, 2015
Broken lives, were do I begin! Once again Brenda has created another masterpiece! With the cliff hanger at the end of shattered dreams I couldn't wait for Brenda to finish writing broken lives! I'm beyond greatful to be able to be one of Brendan beta readers! Now on to broken lives, the book is beyond amazing! We already know about Emma's past from shattered dreams, but now you get to take a dive into Alec's past and how its going to effect his and Emma's future together! I also love how more characters are brought in and you begin to learn more about them! I don't want to ruin the book for anyone else so this is all I'm going to say! This book is a must read!! :)
February 18, 2015
I have to say that with EVERY book that Brenda has written she has blown me away time and time again just when I think she can out do herself BAM her next book comes out and nothing is different with this book.
Emma and Alec have has so many trail in this and previous book but to see how the get through it all as a strong unit when you think that they might not quite make it is truly outstanding.
If you have read any of Brenda book you will know there always a little twist and due to this I wont go into details of the dialog of this book it is a YOU JUST HAVE TO READ.
Thank you Brenda you are truly a talented Author I love you works
January 15, 2015
This is such a great series. In the 1st book it ends with Alec and Emma walking in to Alec's wife, Molly, laying in his bed almost naked. Alec failed to mention to Emma that he was still married. This leaves Emma to believe that everything she thought she might have with Alec was a lie. The truth comes out though that Molly left him, and Raelynn(their daughter) for drugs. When Molly comes back she starts to stalk Emma, because she wants her life back but can she stay sober & clean? Will Alec take her back if she does get help or will he continue to make Emma see that her and James(Emma's son) mean everything to him??
February 5, 2015
This picks up right where we left off in book one with the discovery of Molly in Alec's bed.
Yeah that was some cliffhanger, and I couldn't wait to start this book and pick up the story.
After some quick explaining from Alec, we discover the reasons behind Molly not being in the picture and she becomes intent on getting Alec back and Emma out of the picture.
Both Alec and Emma's relationship is tested by Molly and I loved how this book shows how a relationship can have it ups and downs - with a side order of manic ex's thrown in.
I loved both books so far and I cant wait to read book 3 for the conclusion of their story
5 stars
Yeah that was some cliffhanger, and I couldn't wait to start this book and pick up the story.
After some quick explaining from Alec, we discover the reasons behind Molly not being in the picture and she becomes intent on getting Alec back and Emma out of the picture.
Both Alec and Emma's relationship is tested by Molly and I loved how this book shows how a relationship can have it ups and downs - with a side order of manic ex's thrown in.
I loved both books so far and I cant wait to read book 3 for the conclusion of their story
5 stars
April 18, 2015
Broken Lives (Book 2) by Brenda Kennedy This picks up right where we left off in book one with the discovery of Molly in Alec's bed.Yeah that was some cliffhanger, and I couldn't wait to start this book and pick up the story.After some quick explaining from Alec, we discover the reasons behind Molly not being in the picture and she becomes intent on getting Alec back and Emma out of the picture.Both Alec and Emma's relationship is tested by Molly and I loved how this book shows how a relationship can have it ups and downs - with a side order of manic ex's thrown in.I loved both books so far and I cant wait to read book 3 for the conclusion of their story5 stars
February 5, 2015
We are right back at Emma finding Molly in Alec's bed. Holy freakin' cow. Talk about a kick start to a story. Molly's reign of freak doesn't end there though. She goes even further and goes all creepy stalker on Emma. Unfortunately she is back on drugs and infects their lives. What I loved about this story is that it is true to real life in showing that every relationship has ups and downs, but it is all about navigating all of that with someone you love. I really enjoyed Emma and Alec's story.
I give Broken Lives 4 hearts!
I give Broken Lives 4 hearts!
November 28, 2015
This was an amazing book. Same as all of the books by this wonderful Author. I knew before I started reading this that it was going to be a great read. This book exceeded far beyond the way that I was hoping for. All of Brenda Kennedy's books make me feel like I have a personal relationshop with the characters. This is just another well written book in my opinion. Keep up the great work Mrs. Brenda Kennedy.
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