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Steel Brothers Saga #7
Shattered
Your Escape Into A World of Dark Mysteries & Spicy Romance.
Ryan Steel is known in Snow Creek as the handsomest Steel brother with the most jovial personality. Now that his busy grape harvest and winemaking season is over, he's happy to spend time with his family and help his brothers, Talon and Jonah, celebrate their impending nuptials. The Steels are taking a well-deserved break from the conspiracy surrounding them...until an unlikely woman and a long-buried secret shatter Ryan's world.
Detective Ruby Lee has been on her own since she was fifteen. When her past collides with the Steel family's mysteries, she's determined to find the truth. She has her own issues, and she's not looking for a relationship, despite her all-consuming attraction to Ryan Steel. The gorgeous dark-haired man gets under her skin anyway...and he needs her.
Together they explore both of their histories, but those pasts could cost them a future.
Ryan Steel is known in Snow Creek as the handsomest Steel brother with the most jovial personality. Now that his busy grape harvest and winemaking season is over, he's happy to spend time with his family and help his brothers, Talon and Jonah, celebrate their impending nuptials. The Steels are taking a well-deserved break from the conspiracy surrounding them...until an unlikely woman and a long-buried secret shatter Ryan's world.
Detective Ruby Lee has been on her own since she was fifteen. When her past collides with the Steel family's mysteries, she's determined to find the truth. She has her own issues, and she's not looking for a relationship, despite her all-consuming attraction to Ryan Steel. The gorgeous dark-haired man gets under her skin anyway...and he needs her.
Together they explore both of their histories, but those pasts could cost them a future.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2017
About the author
Helen Hardt
171 books7,618 followers#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt's passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family.
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Join my official street team on Facebook, Hardt & Soul, for exclusive excerpts and giveaways! https://www.facebook.com/groups/hardt...
Unchained (Blood Bond Saga: One) is FREE!! Get it here:
Kindle: https://amzn.to/2OccbIv
Nook: http://bit.ly/2u5tFOc
iBooks: https://apple.co/2KZpwSi
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2N0srL2
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2u7bHe0
Breathless (Steel Brothers Saga Book 10) is AVAILABLE! Get it here👇
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NV9oa5
Nook: http://bit.ly/2zEclDb
iBooks: https://apple.co/2xWg393
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2xYJ70H
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2xKZGwJ
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/GR_Breathless
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 677 reviews
February 17, 2018
Review available at Under the Pages.
August 6, 2017
Release Date: August 29, 2017
Genre: Darker Romantic Suspense
I read this book from start to finish in one sitting. It's another great addition to the Steel Brothers series and features a different cast of characters- Ryan and Ruby. If you have been following the series then you know that each book must be read in order of publication as it features the same suspenseful and dark story line. The first 3 books tell Talon's story and quest to find out who hurt him when he was a kid all the while slowly falling in love with Jade. The next three books are Jonah and Melanies story. They are still on the hunt to find the men who tortured his brother and love was an unexpected surprise in the journey. Finally, this book, and the two that will follow, will (hopefully) give us readers the rest of the answers we crave so all the bad guys can be put to justice. Will love be on the platter for Ryan as well? I am thinking so based on this one. But who knows what will happen as Helen Hardt has a way of surprising her readers!
If you are a fan of a darker romantic suspense novel, I would highly recommend this book to you. However, if you haven't read the first 6 books first then you will have to start from the beginning. The good news is that these are fairly quick reads. But be warned that this story has very dark elements that may not sit well with some.
Ryan surprised me in this book. I certainly had him on my mind as he made many appearances in the first six books, but was never able to develop a deeper connection with him... Until now. Ryan is a bit different from his brothers, doesn't necessarily suffer as much, but still has demons to fight. Ruby- the woman who begins to steal his heart, is not at all who I would have expected Helen to couple him up with, but I have to admit, it works. Now I am anxiously anticipating the next release as one again, we are left hanging with out mouths agape at the ending.
Recommended Read
Genre: Darker Romantic Suspense
I read this book from start to finish in one sitting. It's another great addition to the Steel Brothers series and features a different cast of characters- Ryan and Ruby. If you have been following the series then you know that each book must be read in order of publication as it features the same suspenseful and dark story line. The first 3 books tell Talon's story and quest to find out who hurt him when he was a kid all the while slowly falling in love with Jade. The next three books are Jonah and Melanies story. They are still on the hunt to find the men who tortured his brother and love was an unexpected surprise in the journey. Finally, this book, and the two that will follow, will (hopefully) give us readers the rest of the answers we crave so all the bad guys can be put to justice. Will love be on the platter for Ryan as well? I am thinking so based on this one. But who knows what will happen as Helen Hardt has a way of surprising her readers!
If you are a fan of a darker romantic suspense novel, I would highly recommend this book to you. However, if you haven't read the first 6 books first then you will have to start from the beginning. The good news is that these are fairly quick reads. But be warned that this story has very dark elements that may not sit well with some.
Ryan surprised me in this book. I certainly had him on my mind as he made many appearances in the first six books, but was never able to develop a deeper connection with him... Until now. Ryan is a bit different from his brothers, doesn't necessarily suffer as much, but still has demons to fight. Ruby- the woman who begins to steal his heart, is not at all who I would have expected Helen to couple him up with, but I have to admit, it works. Now I am anxiously anticipating the next release as one again, we are left hanging with out mouths agape at the ending.
Recommended Read
August 9, 2017
Wow shattered was intense. The story line conitues on with its phenomal twist and turns. More secrets are revealed and more questions will arise. It will suck you in and you will hate when it ends. Ryan has been more of a background charater until now amd lwt me tell you he is difinetly worth the wait. He is so charming, sweet and sexy you will be swooning through the book. Ruby is a beautiful soul trying like hell to escape the pain of her past. Holy cow what an ending!
March 17, 2021
Now we are back! Ryan's story surely started with a bang. I can tell his story will be as good as Talon's. Hopefully not too dark.
I instanly like Ruby. Miss Hardt done a good job conjuring Ruby as vulnerable and strong at the same time. And Ryan.... he is delicious. I want more of him.
The mystery surrounding the Steel is growing more intense. I do not want to spoil it further. I am so excited to read the next book.
4 stars
I instanly like Ruby. Miss Hardt done a good job conjuring Ruby as vulnerable and strong at the same time. And Ryan.... he is delicious. I want more of him.
The mystery surrounding the Steel is growing more intense. I do not want to spoil it further. I am so excited to read the next book.
4 stars
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November 5, 2017
Well, here we are, seven books deep in what was originally billed as a trilogy with no real end in sight. There's at least one other book on the horizon, and since Marj hasn't received her romance just yet, there will likely be more in the series. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if this series goes for at LEAST ten books. Nothing like milking this dry cow for those last few drops, I suppose.
There are some series that are so bad that they're actually somewhat engrossing reads. This series, however, isn't like that. This book in particular was more of the "I can't believe how bad this book is, and I kind of want to quit reading it because it's SO BAD, but yet the morbid side of me wants to keep forcing myself to read it just to see how badly it ends because I am quite sure it is going to be beyond a trainwreck by the last page." And guess what, the morbid side of me was right, because honestly? This book is probably the worst in the entire series, and the series, in general, has been abysmal.
Now it's Ryan's turn to fall into instalove, because his two older brothers have found their true instaloves and we can't allow Ryan to be a bachelor, right? Throw him together with Ruby, a detective in Junction (or, in this series, Grand Junction, because even though nearly everyone in the book is a local or at least local enough, NO ONE has picked up on the fact that locals virtually never say "Grand Junction." But I've harped on this in my past six reviews, so let's move on, shall we?) and the daughter of one of Talon's abductors .
So Ruby has a lot of issues, considering that her father is a bad dude. She has kind of closeted herself away from the world; she's thirty-two years old, but she's never been in a relationship and hasn't even been kissed. She thinks she's absolutely, hideously ugly even though everyone around her tells her just how hot and gorgeous she is, but they must be WRONG for...I don't know why. But they're WRONG, damn it, because no woman in this world is allowed to have anything remotely resembling self esteem - and this blatantly manifests repeatedly, because all of the female side characters (Jade, Melanie, and Marj in particular) constantly tell Ruby that she is LIKE OMG SO MUCH HOTTER THAN THEY ARE even though, according to the prior books, they're all smoking hot women themselves. But, like I said, women aren't allowed to have any self-confidence in these books, so in order to give a woman a compliment, these women must tear themselves down and say how not hot they are. Insert major eye roll here.
Anyway, Ruby and Melanie are sort-of acquaintances (although not particularly close), so when it comes time for Melanie's whirlwind marriage to Jonah Steel (who is such an asshole - thankfully he played little role in this book), she...asks Ruby to come with them to Jamaica to witness the double wedding (Talon and Jade are also getting married) and offers to pay for Ruby's entire trip and stay because...ummm...yeah, I don't know either. Melanie does seem pretty lonely, though, as she has virtually no friends and no social relationships outside of the Steel circle. Whatever. Anyway, Ruby is a good little girl and says that she can afford her own damned trip, thank you very much, which just shows how special and great she is.
Ruby details that she's never been on vacation ever - she is thirty-two. I find this highly unlikely; I am not a police officer, but even at my job (health care), to prevent burn out, my hospital has a policy that you MUST take at least a week's worth of vacation every fifty-two weeks. But apparently Ruby's supervisors don't see her working so hard that she literally eats, breathes, and sleeps her job - and in her "free time" she's busy tracking down her scumbag father. That's okay, though, because Ruby is extra special and good and she doesn't have to worry about such things as burn out and being drained because she has an endless reserve of energy on her side.
But, even though Ruby has NEVER been on vacation and, in fact, has never even left Colorado EVER (please, if she's living in Junction she's literally less than thirty minutes from the Utah border - the author expects me to believe that extreme fitness junkie Ruby has NEVER gone to Moab for a day? She's never gone up to Flaming Gorge? I mean, granted, Colorado is AMAZING and the western slope is gorgeous, but even I like to get out of the state once in a while), she somehow MAGICALLY has a valid passport that is just waiting for her to use it! So she gets to go to Jamaica with no problem, even though Melanie only gives Ruby a few days' notice before the trip is planned - and Ruby also MAGICALLY has no problem getting that time off from her job, even though she has NEVER taken a vacation before! Yeah, okay, that is totally what happens in the real world.
So, anyway, she's the odd duck out on this trip (everyone else is family or about to become family), and she tends to gravitate towards Ryan Steel (side note: I believe that I have been calling them "Steele" before this book LOL) because he is also single. And built like a Greek god, although he doesn't work out, just works on their ranch, which is supposedly to miraculously keep you lean (it can, for sure, but I've definitely met some less-than-lean ranchers on the western slope, as well). Ryan shows that he's such an incredibly gentleman by ordering food for Ruby even though he doesn't know her (and orders something she doesn't like) and
Oh there be some rage beneath this spoiler cut, so be prepared, all ye who choose to enter.
So apparently all of this bullshit made Ruby hot for Ryan, and the sexytimes followed shortly. The sex was, as I have come to expect from this author, hilariously awful.
All of this happens in like two or three days, by the way - Ruby literally goes from "terrified of all men" to "I'm ready for all of this" in around forty-eight hours. I just don't see this as realistic, especially since Ruby has spent over half of her life being petrified when it comes to men. But the Steels all appear to have magical dicks.
And then the book shifts abruptly, because the author needs to pick up the tangled strings of all these plots that she has been milking for six books now, so it's time for Ruby and Ryan to leave Jamaica and spend time on the mystery that should have been "solved" at least three books ago.
This brings me to another point. Ruby is placed so high on a pedestal of virtue and morality that we common sluts who dare to enjoy sex can never hope to achieve her sainthood. Ryan even mentions that he's falling in instalove with Ruby partially because of her integrity. Except...she really doesn't have much integrity, especially when it comes to her job.
Ryan, like his brothers, also has a tendency towards abuse.
This is actually the longest book rant I've ever had; I had to cut it down to make it fit!
There are some series that are so bad that they're actually somewhat engrossing reads. This series, however, isn't like that. This book in particular was more of the "I can't believe how bad this book is, and I kind of want to quit reading it because it's SO BAD, but yet the morbid side of me wants to keep forcing myself to read it just to see how badly it ends because I am quite sure it is going to be beyond a trainwreck by the last page." And guess what, the morbid side of me was right, because honestly? This book is probably the worst in the entire series, and the series, in general, has been abysmal.
Now it's Ryan's turn to fall into instalove, because his two older brothers have found their true instaloves and we can't allow Ryan to be a bachelor, right? Throw him together with Ruby, a detective in Junction (or, in this series, Grand Junction, because even though nearly everyone in the book is a local or at least local enough, NO ONE has picked up on the fact that locals virtually never say "Grand Junction." But I've harped on this in my past six reviews, so let's move on, shall we?) and the daughter of one of Talon's abductors .
So Ruby has a lot of issues, considering that her father is a bad dude. She has kind of closeted herself away from the world; she's thirty-two years old, but she's never been in a relationship and hasn't even been kissed. She thinks she's absolutely, hideously ugly even though everyone around her tells her just how hot and gorgeous she is, but they must be WRONG for...I don't know why. But they're WRONG, damn it, because no woman in this world is allowed to have anything remotely resembling self esteem - and this blatantly manifests repeatedly, because all of the female side characters (Jade, Melanie, and Marj in particular) constantly tell Ruby that she is LIKE OMG SO MUCH HOTTER THAN THEY ARE even though, according to the prior books, they're all smoking hot women themselves. But, like I said, women aren't allowed to have any self-confidence in these books, so in order to give a woman a compliment, these women must tear themselves down and say how not hot they are. Insert major eye roll here.
Anyway, Ruby and Melanie are sort-of acquaintances (although not particularly close), so when it comes time for Melanie's whirlwind marriage to Jonah Steel (who is such an asshole - thankfully he played little role in this book), she...asks Ruby to come with them to Jamaica to witness the double wedding (Talon and Jade are also getting married) and offers to pay for Ruby's entire trip and stay because...ummm...yeah, I don't know either. Melanie does seem pretty lonely, though, as she has virtually no friends and no social relationships outside of the Steel circle. Whatever. Anyway, Ruby is a good little girl and says that she can afford her own damned trip, thank you very much, which just shows how special and great she is.
Ruby details that she's never been on vacation ever - she is thirty-two. I find this highly unlikely; I am not a police officer, but even at my job (health care), to prevent burn out, my hospital has a policy that you MUST take at least a week's worth of vacation every fifty-two weeks. But apparently Ruby's supervisors don't see her working so hard that she literally eats, breathes, and sleeps her job - and in her "free time" she's busy tracking down her scumbag father. That's okay, though, because Ruby is extra special and good and she doesn't have to worry about such things as burn out and being drained because she has an endless reserve of energy on her side.
But, even though Ruby has NEVER been on vacation and, in fact, has never even left Colorado EVER (please, if she's living in Junction she's literally less than thirty minutes from the Utah border - the author expects me to believe that extreme fitness junkie Ruby has NEVER gone to Moab for a day? She's never gone up to Flaming Gorge? I mean, granted, Colorado is AMAZING and the western slope is gorgeous, but even I like to get out of the state once in a while), she somehow MAGICALLY has a valid passport that is just waiting for her to use it! So she gets to go to Jamaica with no problem, even though Melanie only gives Ruby a few days' notice before the trip is planned - and Ruby also MAGICALLY has no problem getting that time off from her job, even though she has NEVER taken a vacation before! Yeah, okay, that is totally what happens in the real world.
So, anyway, she's the odd duck out on this trip (everyone else is family or about to become family), and she tends to gravitate towards Ryan Steel (side note: I believe that I have been calling them "Steele" before this book LOL) because he is also single. And built like a Greek god, although he doesn't work out, just works on their ranch, which is supposedly to miraculously keep you lean (it can, for sure, but I've definitely met some less-than-lean ranchers on the western slope, as well). Ryan shows that he's such an incredibly gentleman by ordering food for Ruby even though he doesn't know her (and orders something she doesn't like) and
Oh there be some rage beneath this spoiler cut, so be prepared, all ye who choose to enter.
So apparently all of this bullshit made Ruby hot for Ryan, and the sexytimes followed shortly. The sex was, as I have come to expect from this author, hilariously awful.
All of this happens in like two or three days, by the way - Ruby literally goes from "terrified of all men" to "I'm ready for all of this" in around forty-eight hours. I just don't see this as realistic, especially since Ruby has spent over half of her life being petrified when it comes to men. But the Steels all appear to have magical dicks.
And then the book shifts abruptly, because the author needs to pick up the tangled strings of all these plots that she has been milking for six books now, so it's time for Ruby and Ryan to leave Jamaica and spend time on the mystery that should have been "solved" at least three books ago.
This brings me to another point. Ruby is placed so high on a pedestal of virtue and morality that we common sluts who dare to enjoy sex can never hope to achieve her sainthood. Ryan even mentions that he's falling in instalove with Ruby partially because of her integrity. Except...she really doesn't have much integrity, especially when it comes to her job.
Ryan, like his brothers, also has a tendency towards abuse.
This is actually the longest book rant I've ever had; I had to cut it down to make it fit!
July 22, 2017
Received ARC from Netgalley to give a honest review after reading. Thank you netgalley, publisher, and author, Helen Hardt for the chance.
First off I've to say I have never read Helen's books and for that I'm sorry and I feel completely stupid for not reading her books after reading Shattered. I also want to thank author Meredith Wild for introducing me to Helen Hardt's work. This book had the moment I open the first page. Ryan and Ruby both have troubling past one they both wish they could forget and so would Ryan's family. I instantly fell for Ryan Steele his sweet, sexy, caring, and also has my husband's name(bonus.) Ruby is a tough cop who's father is someone anyone would want to put down. A weekend of celebrating with Steele's family brings Ryan and Ruby together but will secrets, fears, and the past of ghost shattered them? After reading this I want to go back to the beginning and know all the brothers stories. Helen helps readers who haven't read the other books get the glimpse of what they miss with this book. This book made me fall in love, cry, smile, fan myself, and made me scream for more. I can't wait to dive into more of her work and read this series from the beginning.
First off I've to say I have never read Helen's books and for that I'm sorry and I feel completely stupid for not reading her books after reading Shattered. I also want to thank author Meredith Wild for introducing me to Helen Hardt's work. This book had the moment I open the first page. Ryan and Ruby both have troubling past one they both wish they could forget and so would Ryan's family. I instantly fell for Ryan Steele his sweet, sexy, caring, and also has my husband's name(bonus.) Ruby is a tough cop who's father is someone anyone would want to put down. A weekend of celebrating with Steele's family brings Ryan and Ruby together but will secrets, fears, and the past of ghost shattered them? After reading this I want to go back to the beginning and know all the brothers stories. Helen helps readers who haven't read the other books get the glimpse of what they miss with this book. This book made me fall in love, cry, smile, fan myself, and made me scream for more. I can't wait to dive into more of her work and read this series from the beginning.
August 28, 2017
Ruby has an awful background and has dedicated her life to finding answers as to what and exactly who her father was. Ryan has learned to live with the guilt he experiences after narrowly escaping a horrifying situation that his brother had to endure. When these two meet during the double wedding of Ryan’s brothers, they are immediately drawn to each other.
I loved the way this relationship developed and was elated to watch Ruby begin to come out of her frightened shell. Ryan was the perfect man to do it and he did an excellent job of showing how beautiful and desirable Ruby truly was, inside and out. He was a strong protective hero and he only wanted to do what was best for her.
This book is full of questions and mystery and I really loved every moment of it. I was invested the entire time and hated when I had to set it aside for little things like work. While it can be read as a standalone, I think it would have been better to read the previous books. This was definitely moving into five star territory until I got to the end and it came to a screeching halt on a huge cliffhanger. I hate cliffhangers! However, I love Ruby and Ryan so I will definitely be picking up the next book.
ARC provided by NetGalley and Waterhouse Press
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
I loved the way this relationship developed and was elated to watch Ruby begin to come out of her frightened shell. Ryan was the perfect man to do it and he did an excellent job of showing how beautiful and desirable Ruby truly was, inside and out. He was a strong protective hero and he only wanted to do what was best for her.
This book is full of questions and mystery and I really loved every moment of it. I was invested the entire time and hated when I had to set it aside for little things like work. While it can be read as a standalone, I think it would have been better to read the previous books. This was definitely moving into five star territory until I got to the end and it came to a screeching halt on a huge cliffhanger. I hate cliffhangers! However, I love Ruby and Ryan so I will definitely be picking up the next book.
ARC provided by NetGalley and Waterhouse Press
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
September 26, 2017
I couldn't resist jumping into this series because I keep seeing it on my Facebook feed. I really wanted to see what the hype is about. Luckily the author does a pretty good job of doing enough of a recap in the beginning that I had no problems jumping in and following along.
I was hooked on the plot immediately. This has a secret society aspect to the overall series that will keep you guessing with each chapter. You do get previous couples in this book and this series is a lot darker than I was expecting so it may have some triggers for some readers. Overall, I enjoyed it and want to go back to book one and get everyone's story. ARC provided by NetGalley.
I was hooked on the plot immediately. This has a secret society aspect to the overall series that will keep you guessing with each chapter. You do get previous couples in this book and this series is a lot darker than I was expecting so it may have some triggers for some readers. Overall, I enjoyed it and want to go back to book one and get everyone's story. ARC provided by NetGalley.
July 17, 2017
Please note: I received a copy of SHATTERED on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher and author.
I love a good “the past can destroy our future” romance and Helen Hardt delivers. I haven’t read any of the other Steel Brother Saga books, so at first blush, I thought this was going to be a straight up erotic romance. Boy, was I in for a surprise! The author doesn’t just whip sex scenes together and toss in a few characters to give it a semblance of a story like a lot of other über hot romances do (pun intended). Ms. Hardt not only sprinkles her pages with sexy scenes, but she has developed deeply flawed characters with relatable issues and weaved a gut-wrenching story around them. It’s clear from reading SHATTERED that each of the Steel brothers has worked hard to keep some secrets buried deep in the past where they belong, and when one of them finds the right woman, what was once held close to the chest suddenly can’t be contained. Detective Ruby Lee’s determination to find the truth at the expense of her attraction to the hella-hot wine-maker, Ryan Steel, is admirable. I love a strong heroine and Ruby Lee rocks it.
I love a good “the past can destroy our future” romance and Helen Hardt delivers. I haven’t read any of the other Steel Brother Saga books, so at first blush, I thought this was going to be a straight up erotic romance. Boy, was I in for a surprise! The author doesn’t just whip sex scenes together and toss in a few characters to give it a semblance of a story like a lot of other über hot romances do (pun intended). Ms. Hardt not only sprinkles her pages with sexy scenes, but she has developed deeply flawed characters with relatable issues and weaved a gut-wrenching story around them. It’s clear from reading SHATTERED that each of the Steel brothers has worked hard to keep some secrets buried deep in the past where they belong, and when one of them finds the right woman, what was once held close to the chest suddenly can’t be contained. Detective Ruby Lee’s determination to find the truth at the expense of her attraction to the hella-hot wine-maker, Ryan Steel, is admirable. I love a strong heroine and Ruby Lee rocks it.
July 30, 2017
I received an ARC of this book through netgally for an honest review. First i want to say I have read all the Steel Brothers books from day 1.. This has been a series i look forward to and love. This book did not disappoint me in any way. I read this book in one sitting i could not put it down. This is the first book about Ryan Steel the youngest of the 3 brothers and now everything is coming to light about their lives and loves.. All I know December is so far away for the next book and this one ended on a cliffhanger.. Keep up the great work Helen this series is only getting better. I would suggest to anyone to read all the books they are well worth it.
July 14, 2017
netgalley
Great read. This book captured and held my attention from beginning to end. This is a new to me author, I like her style.
Great read. This book captured and held my attention from beginning to end. This is a new to me author, I like her style.
June 28, 2019
OMG. Left me on a cliffhanger. Lol excellent series. Love Helen Hardt
March 12, 2018
You never know what's going to happen next in this series. After the last book this one seemed a bit slow. I think because Jonah left me speechless. I'm happy for Ruby to find people who care about her.
August 21, 2017
Please note that you need to read this series in order: Craving, Obsession, Possession, Melt, Burn, Surrender and then Shattered (Twisted comes out this year as well).
We begin Shattered focused on the baby brother of the Steel Brothers, Ryan, and Ruby a town cop that desperately wants to close a chapter of her painful past by capturing her convict father. The two get to know one another on a family trip, but Ruby has been so closed off to men her entire life she is extremely wary to Ryan’s intentions. He’s the most handsome of the Steel Brothers, sweet, honest and can have any woman he wants. What does he see in Ruby?
The apprehension Ruby feels towards Ryan and his affections breaks my heart. She is so extremely confident in her work as a police officer, it’s hard to believe she’s so unsure of herself when it comes to men. As time moves on and they spend more time together, it’s a good feeling to see Ruby open up to the kind of person she is on the inside and not just define herself by her work. Ryan is so swoonworthy with Ruby; sweet, honest, patient; you name it! Look up gentlemen in the dictionary and you will see a picture of Ryan Steel. Again, let’s not forget he’s deemed the sexiest brother of them all, able to charm the pants off any woman. And now, he’s set his sights on Ruby.
Some questions have been answered in previous installments surrounding this household drama, but trust me when I say you’re still in shock as they continue to put their family puzzle together. It's abundantly clear that Ryan and Ruby will forever be tied to one another in the search for her Father. The entire clan plays a role in this series, including their sister Marjorie. They’re all present in every adventure and that makes the story all the more enjoyable.
Once again, the sexy moments are nothing short of hot and erotic! Queue the cold shower ladies! The cliffhanger at the end of Shattered will absolutely, positively BLOW YOU AWAY! I can guarantee you won’t see it coming. Yes, you think you probably had it all figured out like the rest of us, but you will be amazed at the twists and turns that Helen has once again thrown at us. I was looking for the next page of this engaging drama as I screamed OH MY GOSH, but Helen closed the curtain on us. Now we play the waiting game again! This roller coaster is one heck of a ride.
We begin Shattered focused on the baby brother of the Steel Brothers, Ryan, and Ruby a town cop that desperately wants to close a chapter of her painful past by capturing her convict father. The two get to know one another on a family trip, but Ruby has been so closed off to men her entire life she is extremely wary to Ryan’s intentions. He’s the most handsome of the Steel Brothers, sweet, honest and can have any woman he wants. What does he see in Ruby?
The apprehension Ruby feels towards Ryan and his affections breaks my heart. She is so extremely confident in her work as a police officer, it’s hard to believe she’s so unsure of herself when it comes to men. As time moves on and they spend more time together, it’s a good feeling to see Ruby open up to the kind of person she is on the inside and not just define herself by her work. Ryan is so swoonworthy with Ruby; sweet, honest, patient; you name it! Look up gentlemen in the dictionary and you will see a picture of Ryan Steel. Again, let’s not forget he’s deemed the sexiest brother of them all, able to charm the pants off any woman. And now, he’s set his sights on Ruby.
Some questions have been answered in previous installments surrounding this household drama, but trust me when I say you’re still in shock as they continue to put their family puzzle together. It's abundantly clear that Ryan and Ruby will forever be tied to one another in the search for her Father. The entire clan plays a role in this series, including their sister Marjorie. They’re all present in every adventure and that makes the story all the more enjoyable.
Once again, the sexy moments are nothing short of hot and erotic! Queue the cold shower ladies! The cliffhanger at the end of Shattered will absolutely, positively BLOW YOU AWAY! I can guarantee you won’t see it coming. Yes, you think you probably had it all figured out like the rest of us, but you will be amazed at the twists and turns that Helen has once again thrown at us. I was looking for the next page of this engaging drama as I screamed OH MY GOSH, but Helen closed the curtain on us. Now we play the waiting game again! This roller coaster is one heck of a ride.
August 4, 2017
Marjorie is planning a double wedding in Jamaica for Jade and Talon and Jonah and Melanie. Ryan Steel is known in Snow Creek as the handsomest Steel brother with the most jovial personality The Steels are taking a much needed break. There are secrets coming to the surface that will shatter Ryan world. Detective Ruby Lee is trying to find answers for question no one wants answered but her and the Steel, there past are colliding together. Ruby isn't looking for a relationship but when she meets Ryan she become alive for the first time in her life Ryan can't walk away from her either..but could there past cost them future together...
July 19, 2017
I have read all of the Steel Brothers series.. So, when this fell in my lap, I of course, JUMPED at the chance to read it!! I don't know how the author does it. I usually have most books and endings figured out before I even finish half of the book . Sooooo not the case in this series and with this author. I always end up saying NO WAY!! REALLY? THIS IS A GREAT,FAST PACED READ!!! Something is up with the Steel brothers during this Book. How much Can One Person take?? How Much More Can This Family Take?? This is definitely worth the read. I would suggest starting at the beginning. Read This Series!! You won't Be Disappointed, I Promise!!!
I received this ARC From The publisher via Net Galley for My Honest Review.
I received this ARC From The publisher via Net Galley for My Honest Review.
July 20, 2017
Holy crap what an intense book. The Steele saga continues with the youngest brother Ryan and the question of who his mother really is and what role did she play in the abduction of Talon. While more information is found more questions come to the surface. Also thrown into the mix is Ryan's relationship with Ruby, while the chemistry is explosive, can the lies and the baggage from their pasts be overcome to continue. This book was an emotional rollercoaster that took me from happiness to tears to the end where I was swearing at my kindle. Helen Hardt knows the exact way to hook you in and leave you wanting more. I highly recommend this book.
July 25, 2017
Thank you Netgalley and Waterhouse Press for providing me with a copy of this book. What an awesome story! Oh my gosh I could not put this down. I read it in two sittings, would have finished in one, but chores got in the way! Ryan and Ruby were so lovely together! A sweet romance that slowly built and felt real. I have not read the earlier Steel Brothers books, but I sure want to now. Helen Hardt is a fantastic author.
What an emotional but riveting read. I loved Ruby's character she was so smart, strong and feisty. Ryan was great too. The Steel Brothers are a caring, close family. Can't wait to read the next instalment.
What an emotional but riveting read. I loved Ruby's character she was so smart, strong and feisty. Ryan was great too. The Steel Brothers are a caring, close family. Can't wait to read the next instalment.
July 24, 2017
I was fortunate to receive an early ARC from Netgalley by agreeing to give an honest review in return.
AMAZING!!
*** This Series should be read in order***
Wow! I read this book in one sitting and could not put this book down. It was well worth the wait. This book focuses on Ryan Steel the youngest Steel Brother. Through finding love and hidden truths his world is completely shattered. Will things ever be the same for him? You will find many answers, but also be left with many questions. Helen Hardt is amazing. This is a must read.
AMAZING!!
*** This Series should be read in order***
Wow! I read this book in one sitting and could not put this book down. It was well worth the wait. This book focuses on Ryan Steel the youngest Steel Brother. Through finding love and hidden truths his world is completely shattered. Will things ever be the same for him? You will find many answers, but also be left with many questions. Helen Hardt is amazing. This is a must read.
July 28, 2017
Helen, what did you just do to me?!?!?!?! I am still reeling from this book and it has been a few weeks since I read it. WoW!!! Just WoW!!!
You all can check out my full review on my blog page on release day: https://mygirlfriendscouchfb.blogspot...
If you all have not started The Steel brothers Saga, you all have to!! I promise that you will thank me.
You all can check out my full review on my blog page on release day: https://mygirlfriendscouchfb.blogspot...
If you all have not started The Steel brothers Saga, you all have to!! I promise that you will thank me.
August 29, 2017
This is the seventh book in this epic series of the Steele brothers. You have to read all these books in order or you will be totally lost. The books are Craving, Obsession, Possession, Melt, Burn, Surrender, and now Shattered. This book is the start of Ryan’s journey. I have read this whole series from the beginning and Helen has done it again by leaving me speechless. This book was addicting at the very first page. It only took me a day and half to finish this book.
Ryan Steele is the youngest of all the brothers. He is the brother that takes care of the vineyard. He knows his wine and he loves what he does. He is also known in the town as the most handsome of all of the brothers. Ryan knows he can have any girl he wants with his charm but he wants something more. He wants a woman to be by his side. He is so happy for his brothers because they finally found the loves of their lives. He knows he is still young but he wants that some day as well. This family has gone through some terrible things and they all decide to get away. The whole family and some friends take a much needed vacation. Ryan is so happy to leave all the craziness behind for awhile. When he gets on the plane that is when he meets the gorgeous, Ruby. Ryan knows that she is the town cop who is trying to find her father and put him into jail. He feels a connection to Ruby that he has never felt before. He gets to know her and he falls for but is this what Ruby wants? He doesn't want to scare her way so he takes things slow. Will Ryan be able to open Ruby’s heart or will he make her close it even more and leave him Shattered?
Ruby has only one thing on her mind,it is to find her father and bring him to justice. She is a very good cop but she is very quite. Ruby had a very rough childhood and due to her past she does not trust men at all. She is invited to get away with the Steele family and she excepts. She was not expecting the beautiful Ryan Steele to give her all this attention. What would he want with her? Ruby quickly realizes that Ryan is not what she expected. She has never been in a relationship but with Ryan she wants to try. Will she give Ryan a chance or will her past destroy her future?
This book is the perfect way to start Ryan and Ruby’s journey. This book has it all romance, deceit, trust, and love. You will fall in love with Ryan right away. He has the charm and the looks. The way he treats Ruby will make you weak in the knees. It took me a little longer to get to know Ruby. She had a hard childhood and she has some setbacks due to her past. I love that this family is very strong and they will do anything for one another. I love how Helen writes her characters in both points of views. You get to know the characters on a more personal level that makes them comes to life in your mind. I'm so happy that the whole Steele family is involved in this story. I love reading about the prior characters and how they are doing now. This book will show you more pieces to the crazy puzzle they are still trying to solve. There is also some surprises in store for this family as well. The cliffhanger that Helen gives us is going to make you scream at the top of your lungs. Just when you thought you know everything she drops a crazy bomb. I did not see this coming at all. I wonder what is next for this family. I'm already counting down the days until Twisted comes out.
Ryan Steele is the youngest of all the brothers. He is the brother that takes care of the vineyard. He knows his wine and he loves what he does. He is also known in the town as the most handsome of all of the brothers. Ryan knows he can have any girl he wants with his charm but he wants something more. He wants a woman to be by his side. He is so happy for his brothers because they finally found the loves of their lives. He knows he is still young but he wants that some day as well. This family has gone through some terrible things and they all decide to get away. The whole family and some friends take a much needed vacation. Ryan is so happy to leave all the craziness behind for awhile. When he gets on the plane that is when he meets the gorgeous, Ruby. Ryan knows that she is the town cop who is trying to find her father and put him into jail. He feels a connection to Ruby that he has never felt before. He gets to know her and he falls for but is this what Ruby wants? He doesn't want to scare her way so he takes things slow. Will Ryan be able to open Ruby’s heart or will he make her close it even more and leave him Shattered?
Ruby has only one thing on her mind,it is to find her father and bring him to justice. She is a very good cop but she is very quite. Ruby had a very rough childhood and due to her past she does not trust men at all. She is invited to get away with the Steele family and she excepts. She was not expecting the beautiful Ryan Steele to give her all this attention. What would he want with her? Ruby quickly realizes that Ryan is not what she expected. She has never been in a relationship but with Ryan she wants to try. Will she give Ryan a chance or will her past destroy her future?
This book is the perfect way to start Ryan and Ruby’s journey. This book has it all romance, deceit, trust, and love. You will fall in love with Ryan right away. He has the charm and the looks. The way he treats Ruby will make you weak in the knees. It took me a little longer to get to know Ruby. She had a hard childhood and she has some setbacks due to her past. I love that this family is very strong and they will do anything for one another. I love how Helen writes her characters in both points of views. You get to know the characters on a more personal level that makes them comes to life in your mind. I'm so happy that the whole Steele family is involved in this story. I love reading about the prior characters and how they are doing now. This book will show you more pieces to the crazy puzzle they are still trying to solve. There is also some surprises in store for this family as well. The cliffhanger that Helen gives us is going to make you scream at the top of your lungs. Just when you thought you know everything she drops a crazy bomb. I did not see this coming at all. I wonder what is next for this family. I'm already counting down the days until Twisted comes out.
April 14, 2018
This book was the most underwhelming of the series. The first book I wasn't that fond of but this one I was also not fond of for different reasons. The pace was just soooo off. We start on Ryan's trilogy, the youngest of the 3 Steel brothers with the mystery of the past still open and criminals still out there. Enter detective Ruby Lee, who was introduced formerly and is Melanie's friend now. I'm not going to go back and look it up but at least at least 45-50 of the book just deals with beach bliss in Jamaica and the double weddings of Talon and Jane and Jonah and Melanie. The transition back to their everyday world and the problems plaguing their family is sort of stilted and off and reads like another book. Then there feels like theres a sort of gap of just "everyone keep Ryan out of the loop" and so it focuses once again on him and Ruby. It felt a little too much like filler or a segment of the story that hadn't been flushed out enough to keep up the pace of the others. Do I like Ryan? Hell yeah, he's fine looking and he's generally a really nice guy. And Ruby is self-sufficient, driven and very aware of real world problems. The couple could be dynamite but the author better get back to being more cohesive in the next book which I kind of feel I deserve having stuck it out this long to finally get the damn answers to the whole mess.
August 27, 2017
This is the 7th installment of The Steel Brothers Saga series, and an ARC provided by NetGalley. I had read the blurb and had prepared to go into this as a light or fast paced read. I was surprised by the content and subject matter even with the warning label.
This story revolves around Ryan and Ruby, however, I found myself getting lost with the characters from the previous stories. This did not feel like a standalone but rather an extension from the previous installments, and if you are a fan of the series, this is your fit.
This story revolves around Ryan and Ruby, however, I found myself getting lost with the characters from the previous stories. This did not feel like a standalone but rather an extension from the previous installments, and if you are a fan of the series, this is your fit.
August 16, 2017
All I can say is "WOW"! Normally I'm not a big fan of continuing books, but with these, I can't wait for the next installment. I usually like series that each have an ending for all of the books in that series with no cliffhangers. But, the way Helen Hardt writes, I'm changing my tune. The characters are two dimensional and are victims in their own way. It shows that you don't have to be the actual victim of the crime to have residual effects. The crime against one person in a family effects everyone in the family and effects family members of the perpetrators. Both Ruby and Ryan have a lot to deal with, some that weren't expected. Ruby has had a long time to live with what her father has done but Ryan has had time to deal with what happened to his brother. So the fact that there are more aftershocks that he has to deal with now that he has found someone that understands him is disheartening. I can't wait for the next installment. I want answers just as much as the Steele's do but I don't want it to end.
August 10, 2017
5 fantastic stars!!! Words cannot express how much I f-ing loved this book!! Hell, how much I've loved this entire series!
Shattered is the 7th book in the Steele Brothers Series. These books are not meant to be read as standalones. You'll be extremely out of the loop if you start on this book. This installment goes into Ryan Steele 's life. Ryan is the youngest brother of the 3 Steele brothers. He's a winemaker and smooth talker. (Probably the best looking in my imagination) This installment is told from two different point of views, Ryan and Ruby's. I absolutely fell in love with Ruby. She's strong and broken, but yet so kind and tender. She's a detective and Melanie's best friend.
Helen Hardt has blown me away with every book in this series! That cliffhanger! Helen, what are you trying to do to me? My heart stopped on the last page of this book. I cannot wait for the next installment! I have so many unanswered questions!
Excellent read!!!
Shattered is the 7th book in the Steele Brothers Series. These books are not meant to be read as standalones. You'll be extremely out of the loop if you start on this book. This installment goes into Ryan Steele 's life. Ryan is the youngest brother of the 3 Steele brothers. He's a winemaker and smooth talker. (Probably the best looking in my imagination) This installment is told from two different point of views, Ryan and Ruby's. I absolutely fell in love with Ruby. She's strong and broken, but yet so kind and tender. She's a detective and Melanie's best friend.
Helen Hardt has blown me away with every book in this series! That cliffhanger! Helen, what are you trying to do to me? My heart stopped on the last page of this book. I cannot wait for the next installment! I have so many unanswered questions!
Excellent read!!!
August 13, 2017
Omg omg omg. What a way to leave people hanging. I can't get over this ending of this book. Now I gotta wait til when. Omg. This book is incredible. Totally recommend
I received this book as a ARC for my honest opinion
I received this book as a ARC for my honest opinion
September 14, 2017
Update-I have since gone back and read the whole series. All caught up for now!
Whoa, what the heck kind of series did I just drop myself into the middle of?! Only I would start on book 7 of course. And she gets me totally into the story, and the mystery, and all the action, then I see it's at 95% and there is No. Way. that it will wrap up in time. Cliffy? Reallly?????
Ok so Shattered is the first book I have EVER read by Helen Hardt. I am so intrigued by this whole series I need to go back to the beginning and catch up. I was able to read this as a standalone, though I imagine the next one you can't because, well, cliffy. Anywho, the author's writing style really gels with me, I was totally invested in the characters. All the Steels are a close knit group. Ryan is a little happier go lucky than the others, but he goes through a lot in this book. He's also apparently the most handsome, ooh la la! Ruby has pretty much sheltered herself and hid behind drab clothes, but she's kind of emerging out of her shell. These two both have seriously rough pasts and a pretty crazy present to be honest. I am for sure reading the next one, can I have it now?? Please????
Oh, I received an arc of this.
Whoa, what the heck kind of series did I just drop myself into the middle of?! Only I would start on book 7 of course. And she gets me totally into the story, and the mystery, and all the action, then I see it's at 95% and there is No. Way. that it will wrap up in time. Cliffy? Reallly?????
Ok so Shattered is the first book I have EVER read by Helen Hardt. I am so intrigued by this whole series I need to go back to the beginning and catch up. I was able to read this as a standalone, though I imagine the next one you can't because, well, cliffy. Anywho, the author's writing style really gels with me, I was totally invested in the characters. All the Steels are a close knit group. Ryan is a little happier go lucky than the others, but he goes through a lot in this book. He's also apparently the most handsome, ooh la la! Ruby has pretty much sheltered herself and hid behind drab clothes, but she's kind of emerging out of her shell. These two both have seriously rough pasts and a pretty crazy present to be honest. I am for sure reading the next one, can I have it now?? Please????
Oh, I received an arc of this.
December 28, 2017
I received an ARC of Shattered from netgalley to write a review. Thank you Helen Hardt, Netgalley and Waterhouse Press for the opportunity.
In this book you delve deeper into the mystery of the Steel family. The relationship between Ryan and Ruby is heart felt. They both have many issues from their past that they're trying to deal with. All the while continuing to try and unravel the truth behind his brother Talon's abduction. Answers to many questions are finally answered, yet so many new ones are formed. Just when you think you have something figured out, another piece comes into play! And the cliffhanger at the end...OMG! (I was wondering if this would happen) I saw it coming but not like that.
This book keeps you entwined with the characters and makes you feel as if you're right there with them. Each brother has found that special someone who can help them deal with their past and heal.
As usual Helen doesn't disappoint.
Wow, December 26th...I'll be chomping at the bit waiting for the next installment.
In this book you delve deeper into the mystery of the Steel family. The relationship between Ryan and Ruby is heart felt. They both have many issues from their past that they're trying to deal with. All the while continuing to try and unravel the truth behind his brother Talon's abduction. Answers to many questions are finally answered, yet so many new ones are formed. Just when you think you have something figured out, another piece comes into play! And the cliffhanger at the end...OMG! (I was wondering if this would happen) I saw it coming but not like that.
This book keeps you entwined with the characters and makes you feel as if you're right there with them. Each brother has found that special someone who can help them deal with their past and heal.
As usual Helen doesn't disappoint.
Wow, December 26th...I'll be chomping at the bit waiting for the next installment.
October 13, 2017
The Steel Brothers, and this beautiful world that Helen Hardt has created around them, really snuck up on me. I jumped in at book 2, and must admit that by the end of the first trilogy (TALON!), I was COUNTING THE DAYS until the next part of the story (JONAH!)...but by the end of book 6, I was literally salivating in preparation for Ryan's part of the saga. So needless to say, my expectations for this book were immense. I wanted--needed--a lot from this suave, wine-making pretty man. I didn't want him to be paired with just "anyone." He needed a heroine who would put him in his place, but appreciate everything she had in him...who would see beneath the gorgeous facade by which everyone else identifies him, and see the beauty of his heart, as well as the pain of his soul.
Well kids...this book accomplishes ALL of that and more. I was blown away by the profound, at times even poetic, unfolding of this beautiful, indelible relationship, written about two hurting souls who come together to learn that together, maybe they can heal from the harsh pain of their pasts. It's so subtly written and so artfully crafted, you'll have no idea how deeply you're invested until it's time to put away the book--and you find that you cannot!
I've compared Helen Hardt to Diana Gabaldon in the past, not only because of her unforgettable characters, but because she puts them into plots that refuse to let your heart, mind, and soul go. I've never stood by the assessment more. What a wonderful book!
Well kids...this book accomplishes ALL of that and more. I was blown away by the profound, at times even poetic, unfolding of this beautiful, indelible relationship, written about two hurting souls who come together to learn that together, maybe they can heal from the harsh pain of their pasts. It's so subtly written and so artfully crafted, you'll have no idea how deeply you're invested until it's time to put away the book--and you find that you cannot!
I've compared Helen Hardt to Diana Gabaldon in the past, not only because of her unforgettable characters, but because she puts them into plots that refuse to let your heart, mind, and soul go. I've never stood by the assessment more. What a wonderful book!
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