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Spark of Hope #1
Bruised But Not Broken
Ben
Spark of Hope: A bi-weekly trauma support group.
This is my nightmare. When I think of a support group, I think of sad people sitting around talking about their feelings and nothing changing.
And yet, when my brother and his best friend, who happens to be a therapist, presented the idea of holding the meetings at my gym, I caved.
Because I, Benjamin Price, have always tried to rescue the people in my life. But I can’t. I’ve usually failed them.
Now, I’m hosting a trauma support group and desperately trying not to fall into my old habits—of attempting to save everyone.
And then, he walks in.
Bruised. But not broken. No matter how exhausted he may feel, a strength in him calls to me.
And there’s no way I can ignore the need deep inside me to at least try.
Colby
I’m tired. I’m afraid. And I don’t want to go back.
Not to the abusive relationship I told myself I was okay with for years.
But what am I supposed to do?
I have no real life skills. All my life, I’ve been told I’m pretty and that’s it.
Then I walk into a gym, looking for a job, but I find so much more.
I don’t want to trust Ben. I don’t believe his help doesn’t come with a price.
But what choice do I really have?
One thing’s for sure . . . Neither of us are getting out of this intact.
What we lose though, that’s anyone’s guess.
***Bruised But Not Broken is set around a trauma support group and will, therefore, touch on extremely sensitive subjects. I’ll always do my best to handle these topics with care and healing, and with no intention of hurting anyone. But please, heed this warning if you have any triggers.
Spark of Hope: A bi-weekly trauma support group.
This is my nightmare. When I think of a support group, I think of sad people sitting around talking about their feelings and nothing changing.
And yet, when my brother and his best friend, who happens to be a therapist, presented the idea of holding the meetings at my gym, I caved.
Because I, Benjamin Price, have always tried to rescue the people in my life. But I can’t. I’ve usually failed them.
Now, I’m hosting a trauma support group and desperately trying not to fall into my old habits—of attempting to save everyone.
And then, he walks in.
Bruised. But not broken. No matter how exhausted he may feel, a strength in him calls to me.
And there’s no way I can ignore the need deep inside me to at least try.
Colby
I’m tired. I’m afraid. And I don’t want to go back.
Not to the abusive relationship I told myself I was okay with for years.
But what am I supposed to do?
I have no real life skills. All my life, I’ve been told I’m pretty and that’s it.
Then I walk into a gym, looking for a job, but I find so much more.
I don’t want to trust Ben. I don’t believe his help doesn’t come with a price.
But what choice do I really have?
One thing’s for sure . . . Neither of us are getting out of this intact.
What we lose though, that’s anyone’s guess.
***Bruised But Not Broken is set around a trauma support group and will, therefore, touch on extremely sensitive subjects. I’ll always do my best to handle these topics with care and healing, and with no intention of hurting anyone. But please, heed this warning if you have any triggers.
264 pages, Paperback
First published May 31, 2022
292 people are currently reading
1368 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
93 books2,493 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 422 reviews
August 10, 2022
I kept waiting to feel something - ANYTHING for these two but…nope. At around 30% Colby said that he was already addicted to Ben’s smile blah blah blah and I’m cringing because they met like what…two days ago? And they’ve had so few interactions that I just couldn’t muster up anything but an eye roll. And before Colby said that Ben said something about how Colby is his and only his to take care of. (Something like that - I don’t really remember the exact details but I know he said “mine.”) Now we all know how much I love mine mine mine talk in fiction lol but this didn’t even make sense.🙃 There’s not enough of an established connection for me to be like 😍😍😍 ya know? They’re just coworkers at this point who barely say two words to each other. COLBY EVEN SAYS THAT THEY DON’T TALK!!!! Maybe I was also feeling extra annoyed because of how much I instantly loved Hostile and was hoping for the same magic here…🤷🏼♀️ I was not a fan of the banter here either. It all felt a bit forced and like it was platitude after platitude without much meaning behind it. At around 63% they both declare how they never want to lose each other because they’ve never had as amazing sex as this, that they’re best friends, etc. But tbh they still felt like strangers to each other at this point in my honest opinion. Tbh this is the least I’ve felt for a romantic coupling in a while. These two had so little chemistry that I couldn’t bring myself to care deeply about their romance. But overall I feel like it was a combination of all that I just mentioned above and the writing that didn’t work for me like it did when I read Hostile by this author. I couldn’t wait until this book was over tbh😭 It’s a super fast read though which is good because if it was any longer I would have dnfed for sure. I’m bummed that I didn’t like this one but am definitely not giving up on this author or this series.
June 4, 2022
***3.5 rating***
Trigger warning: this review mentions topics and themes that may be sensitive and triggering to some. Viewer/reader discretion is advised.
"He sees me. The real me. And I don’t want to push him away anymore. I only want to hold on as tightly as I possibly can."
Brief Summary:
Bruised But Not Broken is a new book by Nicole Dykes, its the first book of her new upcoming series. The series is meant to discuss different traumas and how the characters cope with them and eventually recover from trauma (obviously no one is ever fully recovered from trauma, but hey baby steps).
This book focuses on Ben and Colby. Ben was a married "straight" guy with a hero/savior complex to his then wife Summer, a social media influencer. One sudden night, Summer is attacked by her stalker. Shocked by the turn of events, Ben is of course worried for his wife. He is no stranger to trauma and violence. They are indeed the ghosts of his past. For many reasons, it is told to the reader that the marriage between Summer and Ben is strained and has turned into a routine. There is no passion or romance. They may as well be roommates. On the night of her attack, Summer decides that its been a long time that she has been unhappy and the attack solidified the truth of her strained marriage. Summer wants out and decides its time to cut Ben loose.
Newly divorced Ben, who is a proud gym owner is somewhat depressed after his failed marriage but his brother Roman (a cop and a proud member of the lgbtq2s+ community) does not let Ben mope around for long. In fact, his brother and their friend a therapist named Andrew, want Ben's help to run a group therapy for people who have experienced trauma. Ever the skeptic, Ben is reluctant and not a fan of therapy but he does help out his friend and agrees to have the group therapy at the gym twice a week. With the gym now being very busy Ben needs help and is looking to hire a new employee. That is when Colby walks into Ben Price's life.
Colby a DV victim, has recently fled from his abusive ex. With no place to go or anyone to turn to, he stumbles upon Ben's gym and sees the poster for the job. This is when the story of our MCs begin.
Bruised but Not Broken is about two people with traumatic pasts who some how found each other and became each other's support, friend and eventually lover.
Verdict:
This is my second read by Nicole Dykes, my first read was Hostile, a book which I very much enjoyed. I saw that she had a new book coming up and well because I enjoyed Hostile, I decided to give this a chance. Unfortunately, this one was not as good as Hostile. It was a fast-paced, light read with not much angst and fast-paced romance, where I failed to feel the connection between Colby and Ben. I think whenever authors try to cover trauma or abuse in general as a theme, its not an easy task to do. If I am reading about characters with trauma, I want some depth, angst, deep feelings and the connection to be established. Ben is fresh out of a 10 year marriage and is immediately taken by Colby who is gay and fresh out of an abusive relationship. And while I appreciated that the author made them become friends first, the romance was still fast-paced. Again, Ben the sweet caring "straight" guy who has never been with a man is down for gay sex quickly and ready to go raw. It just didn't feel realistic. I am sad to say it, because I really did enjoy Hostile and I had the same hope for this book but sadly that was not the case.
The MCs were really sweet tho, especially Ben. He cares about everyone and everything. Colby was also sweet but again their connection...I did not feel it. I did like Ben's brother Roman, Ben's friend Andrew and Ethan. The gym seemed like a safe space for the characters, so that was nice to see.
Roman's book is next, and its about him and Summer's friend, Brooks. Will I check it out? That remains to be seen.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, easy read. It does touch upon topics like trauma and abuse so do be aware. I wish this was as enjoyable as Hostile...but oh well.
Trigger warning: this review mentions topics and themes that may be sensitive and triggering to some. Viewer/reader discretion is advised.
"He sees me. The real me. And I don’t want to push him away anymore. I only want to hold on as tightly as I possibly can."
Brief Summary:
Bruised But Not Broken is a new book by Nicole Dykes, its the first book of her new upcoming series. The series is meant to discuss different traumas and how the characters cope with them and eventually recover from trauma (obviously no one is ever fully recovered from trauma, but hey baby steps).
This book focuses on Ben and Colby. Ben was a married "straight" guy with a hero/savior complex to his then wife Summer, a social media influencer. One sudden night, Summer is attacked by her stalker. Shocked by the turn of events, Ben is of course worried for his wife. He is no stranger to trauma and violence. They are indeed the ghosts of his past. For many reasons, it is told to the reader that the marriage between Summer and Ben is strained and has turned into a routine. There is no passion or romance. They may as well be roommates. On the night of her attack, Summer decides that its been a long time that she has been unhappy and the attack solidified the truth of her strained marriage. Summer wants out and decides its time to cut Ben loose.
Newly divorced Ben, who is a proud gym owner is somewhat depressed after his failed marriage but his brother Roman (a cop and a proud member of the lgbtq2s+ community) does not let Ben mope around for long. In fact, his brother and their friend a therapist named Andrew, want Ben's help to run a group therapy for people who have experienced trauma. Ever the skeptic, Ben is reluctant and not a fan of therapy but he does help out his friend and agrees to have the group therapy at the gym twice a week. With the gym now being very busy Ben needs help and is looking to hire a new employee. That is when Colby walks into Ben Price's life.
Colby a DV victim, has recently fled from his abusive ex. With no place to go or anyone to turn to, he stumbles upon Ben's gym and sees the poster for the job. This is when the story of our MCs begin.
Bruised but Not Broken is about two people with traumatic pasts who some how found each other and became each other's support, friend and eventually lover.
Verdict:
This is my second read by Nicole Dykes, my first read was Hostile, a book which I very much enjoyed. I saw that she had a new book coming up and well because I enjoyed Hostile, I decided to give this a chance. Unfortunately, this one was not as good as Hostile. It was a fast-paced, light read with not much angst and fast-paced romance, where I failed to feel the connection between Colby and Ben. I think whenever authors try to cover trauma or abuse in general as a theme, its not an easy task to do. If I am reading about characters with trauma, I want some depth, angst, deep feelings and the connection to be established. Ben is fresh out of a 10 year marriage and is immediately taken by Colby who is gay and fresh out of an abusive relationship. And while I appreciated that the author made them become friends first, the romance was still fast-paced. Again, Ben the sweet caring "straight" guy who has never been with a man is down for gay sex quickly and ready to go raw. It just didn't feel realistic. I am sad to say it, because I really did enjoy Hostile and I had the same hope for this book but sadly that was not the case.
The MCs were really sweet tho, especially Ben. He cares about everyone and everything. Colby was also sweet but again their connection...I did not feel it. I did like Ben's brother Roman, Ben's friend Andrew and Ethan. The gym seemed like a safe space for the characters, so that was nice to see.
Roman's book is next, and its about him and Summer's friend, Brooks. Will I check it out? That remains to be seen.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, easy read. It does touch upon topics like trauma and abuse so do be aware. I wish this was as enjoyable as Hostile...but oh well.
June 2, 2022
Nicole Dykes has done it again. Heartwarming, raw, and emotional. Bruised But Not Broken has several heavy topics. I loved that I found the book to be surprisingly light. It didn't take us down the dark abyss.
Everyone has a different level of trauma. Ben and Colby, especially, are no strangers to it. The back story of both of them is heartbreaking. Colby is trying to get away and walks into Ben’s gym, looking for a job. Ben is drawn to Colby and offers him a job and a place to live.
Ben is recently divorced and going through the motions of life; something about Colby draws Ben to him, a feeling he never had with anyone. Both are at a crossroads in their life; I love straight to bi or a gay awakening, especially how the author portrayed Ben's awakening.
Bruised But Not Broken is the perfect balance of healing and love. I read this book in one sitting; that is how this book is beautiful and captivating. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I think Roman will be a fan favorite.
Everyone has a different level of trauma. Ben and Colby, especially, are no strangers to it. The back story of both of them is heartbreaking. Colby is trying to get away and walks into Ben’s gym, looking for a job. Ben is drawn to Colby and offers him a job and a place to live.
Ben is recently divorced and going through the motions of life; something about Colby draws Ben to him, a feeling he never had with anyone. Both are at a crossroads in their life; I love straight to bi or a gay awakening, especially how the author portrayed Ben's awakening.
Bruised But Not Broken is the perfect balance of healing and love. I read this book in one sitting; that is how this book is beautiful and captivating. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I think Roman will be a fan favorite.
June 7, 2022
3.75 stars
“I’m worried I can’t make you happy.” […] “I’ve never known happiness until you. Please know that. Please.”
I enjoyed this book so much. This was so much fun to read and a lot of the plots in this book appealed to things I absolutely love in books. So much in this book just really worked for me and I had a good time reading this one. This was a really good reading experience for me.
Brief Summary
Ben just divorced his ex-wife of 10 years. He is wallowing and not really enjoying his life. Colby just left a very abusive relationship, and he feels all alone in the world. They meet each other and they fall in love.
I absolutely adored Colby. When we first meet him, he is super lost, and he is bruised and scared because of the abusive relationship he’s in. He had such a fighting spirit, and he was such a lovely character. I just loved reading about him and seeing him find love, comfort, and peace. It was everything he wanted, and I was so glad that he got it. Colby was such a wonderful character to me. I love reading about trauma and characters who have trauma and I really liked reading about Colby’s and I liked knowing more about him and his life. He was just a wonderful character to read about and I loved him very much.
I loved the relationship in this one. I loved how nice to Colby Ben was. I loved how Ben just wanted to take care of Colby. I really liked how they had to learn to know each other and adjust to the other and what the other wanted. I really liked how they had relationship struggles and they had to work their way through them. I really liked how this book was done. Both of these characters had their trauma and their issues, and they both had things about the other that they didn’t really like, or that didn’t align with what they wanted in life. I really enjoyed how a lot of the book was about them growing as human beings and seeing how they can be good for each other.
I really liked the getting to know each other parts of this book. It was super fun to read about them being friends and to read about what their lives are like. I really liked to see how they behaved together and how they acted around each other. They always were open with each other and honest and I really enjoyed that. I really liked how Colby had his worries about the relationship and how Ben proved him wrong at every turn. I really loved the part of the book where they started dating. It was so swoony and they were always fantasizing about each other and saying cute things about each other. It was so sweet and I loved it, very much.
I really enjoyed how Colby’s trauma was shown in the book. I liked how it was an ever-present thing and how it affected everything that he did and thought. That just really worked for me. I also really enjoyed how Ben’s trauma was shown. It felt so realistic in a way that I haven’t read often in books, and I really enjoyed that.
I really loved how the hurt/comfort was done in this book. There was so much of it in this book, and I loved it so much. I loved how they were always taking care of each other. I loved how they always listened to each other and reassured each other when it was needed.
As much as I enjoyed the trauma in this book and how it was done. I did think that the pacing of everything didn’t necessarily work with the characters, sometimes events felt like they just happened too fast, for me.
This book made me cry so much. I was just such a mess while reading this book and I really enjoyed that. This one made me so emotional, and I really welcome that.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the start of this book. It felt a little jarring to me, and I wasn’t the biggest fan of Ben as a character. Once I got more into the book, I really started loving the book and really appreciating it, but the start of this one just wasn’t my favourite. Ben is really closed off and set in his ways. He also has a lot of prejudices about the world and how things work. A lot of the book is about him growing as a human being and realizing why he had those views and challenging them. Which I really enjoyed, but I did think that the start of the book was a little jarring to read.
One other thing, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the pacing in this book. There were so many scenes I just absolutely adored, and I was a big fan of, but then they were cut by other scenes that didn’t feel as relevant to the plot and those scenes lost me a little.
I had a good time reading this book. It was a super sweet and emotional experience, one that I really enjoyed.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion
“I’m worried I can’t make you happy.” […] “I’ve never known happiness until you. Please know that. Please.”
I enjoyed this book so much. This was so much fun to read and a lot of the plots in this book appealed to things I absolutely love in books. So much in this book just really worked for me and I had a good time reading this one. This was a really good reading experience for me.
Brief Summary
Ben just divorced his ex-wife of 10 years. He is wallowing and not really enjoying his life. Colby just left a very abusive relationship, and he feels all alone in the world. They meet each other and they fall in love.
I absolutely adored Colby. When we first meet him, he is super lost, and he is bruised and scared because of the abusive relationship he’s in. He had such a fighting spirit, and he was such a lovely character. I just loved reading about him and seeing him find love, comfort, and peace. It was everything he wanted, and I was so glad that he got it. Colby was such a wonderful character to me. I love reading about trauma and characters who have trauma and I really liked reading about Colby’s and I liked knowing more about him and his life. He was just a wonderful character to read about and I loved him very much.
I loved the relationship in this one. I loved how nice to Colby Ben was. I loved how Ben just wanted to take care of Colby. I really liked how they had to learn to know each other and adjust to the other and what the other wanted. I really liked how they had relationship struggles and they had to work their way through them. I really liked how this book was done. Both of these characters had their trauma and their issues, and they both had things about the other that they didn’t really like, or that didn’t align with what they wanted in life. I really enjoyed how a lot of the book was about them growing as human beings and seeing how they can be good for each other.
I really liked the getting to know each other parts of this book. It was super fun to read about them being friends and to read about what their lives are like. I really liked to see how they behaved together and how they acted around each other. They always were open with each other and honest and I really enjoyed that. I really liked how Colby had his worries about the relationship and how Ben proved him wrong at every turn. I really loved the part of the book where they started dating. It was so swoony and they were always fantasizing about each other and saying cute things about each other. It was so sweet and I loved it, very much.
I really enjoyed how Colby’s trauma was shown in the book. I liked how it was an ever-present thing and how it affected everything that he did and thought. That just really worked for me. I also really enjoyed how Ben’s trauma was shown. It felt so realistic in a way that I haven’t read often in books, and I really enjoyed that.
I really loved how the hurt/comfort was done in this book. There was so much of it in this book, and I loved it so much. I loved how they were always taking care of each other. I loved how they always listened to each other and reassured each other when it was needed.
As much as I enjoyed the trauma in this book and how it was done. I did think that the pacing of everything didn’t necessarily work with the characters, sometimes events felt like they just happened too fast, for me.
This book made me cry so much. I was just such a mess while reading this book and I really enjoyed that. This one made me so emotional, and I really welcome that.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of the start of this book. It felt a little jarring to me, and I wasn’t the biggest fan of Ben as a character. Once I got more into the book, I really started loving the book and really appreciating it, but the start of this one just wasn’t my favourite. Ben is really closed off and set in his ways. He also has a lot of prejudices about the world and how things work. A lot of the book is about him growing as a human being and realizing why he had those views and challenging them. Which I really enjoyed, but I did think that the start of the book was a little jarring to read.
One other thing, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the pacing in this book. There were so many scenes I just absolutely adored, and I was a big fan of, but then they were cut by other scenes that didn’t feel as relevant to the plot and those scenes lost me a little.
I had a good time reading this book. It was a super sweet and emotional experience, one that I really enjoyed.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion
May 26, 2022
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
Bruised But Not Broken is a moving and heartfelt first entry in the Spark of Hope series. I was so happy with how well balanced this story was with dealing with such difficult topics surrounding trauma, but everything was done with grace, respect and with levity.
Ben and Colby are struggling with their own experiences with trauma and find themselves at a crossroads and only through being with one another are they able to fully heal. I was so pleasantly surprised at how low angst this story was given the more difficult subject matter, which I think made the romance so utterly sweet and endearing.
Another great aspect to the healing nature of this story is the fantastically supportive group of friends within the support group. I think that every character has a great perspective and I loved seeing everyone interact and offer their take on such challenging topics.
I loved seeing Ben's relationship with his brother, Roman. They have such great banter and I loved seeing their love and support regardless of all of the dark experiences they both share.
Overall Ben and Colby have an adorably sweet romance between opposites that includes a bisexual awakening. I loved Ben's attitude at discovering his growing feelings toward Colby and how comfortable he was with their relationship, much to Colby's surprise and awe.
Bruised But Not Broken is a tender romantic story that makes me exciting for the next one.
Bruised But Not Broken is a moving and heartfelt first entry in the Spark of Hope series. I was so happy with how well balanced this story was with dealing with such difficult topics surrounding trauma, but everything was done with grace, respect and with levity.
Ben and Colby are struggling with their own experiences with trauma and find themselves at a crossroads and only through being with one another are they able to fully heal. I was so pleasantly surprised at how low angst this story was given the more difficult subject matter, which I think made the romance so utterly sweet and endearing.
Another great aspect to the healing nature of this story is the fantastically supportive group of friends within the support group. I think that every character has a great perspective and I loved seeing everyone interact and offer their take on such challenging topics.
I loved seeing Ben's relationship with his brother, Roman. They have such great banter and I loved seeing their love and support regardless of all of the dark experiences they both share.
Overall Ben and Colby have an adorably sweet romance between opposites that includes a bisexual awakening. I loved Ben's attitude at discovering his growing feelings toward Colby and how comfortable he was with their relationship, much to Colby's surprise and awe.
Bruised But Not Broken is a tender romantic story that makes me exciting for the next one.
January 13, 2023
3 stars
Ehhhh… didn’t love this.. it was alright but I felt like the relationship was rushed, especially for Colby who came out of an abusive relationship…
Idk if I’ll read Roman’s book… but let’s be real I will because I don’t have another book lined up haha.
Ehhhh… didn’t love this.. it was alright but I felt like the relationship was rushed, especially for Colby who came out of an abusive relationship…
Idk if I’ll read Roman’s book… but let’s be real I will because I don’t have another book lined up haha.
January 18, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧
BR with my lovely new friend Amy @bookworm.247_
Ben’s got a hero complex a mile wild, that may or may not be the foundation of his entire marriage. So when his wife is mugged and he loses it because she didn’t tell him she thought she was being stalked. It’s straw that breaks the camels back and she asks for a divorce.
A year later in walks a bedraggled and bruised Colby into Ben’s gym and here comes Capt Save Everyone to the rescue.
The growth between these two characters is slow and natural, from a rocky friendship to a curious kiss and so much more.
Both men have the mindset that therapy is kinda bs but then they open up to each other. For the first time Ben allows someone into his heart, to see everything inside of him, both the good and the bad.
I don’t think Ben ever fell in love before Colby and it was beautiful to watch him finally give his heart away.
And no one was more deserving than poor Colby, he made rash decisions that came to bite him in the ass and paid the ultimate price for those mistakes.
I loved the surrounding cast of characters from Roman, Ben’s nosy asshole brother, to Andrew the sweet therapist to Summer, Ben’s ex. I thought the way she handled and reacted to things was wonderful.
As for the audio, I love Michael Dean, he’s so dramatic and good at the smut and the build up. Stephen Dexter is new to me but I liked his deep voice. I thought they should’ve switched roles though and it would’ve made a lot more sense.
I’m looking forward to the next book.
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧
BR with my lovely new friend Amy @bookworm.247_
Ben’s got a hero complex a mile wild, that may or may not be the foundation of his entire marriage. So when his wife is mugged and he loses it because she didn’t tell him she thought she was being stalked. It’s straw that breaks the camels back and she asks for a divorce.
A year later in walks a bedraggled and bruised Colby into Ben’s gym and here comes Capt Save Everyone to the rescue.
The growth between these two characters is slow and natural, from a rocky friendship to a curious kiss and so much more.
Both men have the mindset that therapy is kinda bs but then they open up to each other. For the first time Ben allows someone into his heart, to see everything inside of him, both the good and the bad.
I don’t think Ben ever fell in love before Colby and it was beautiful to watch him finally give his heart away.
And no one was more deserving than poor Colby, he made rash decisions that came to bite him in the ass and paid the ultimate price for those mistakes.
I loved the surrounding cast of characters from Roman, Ben’s nosy asshole brother, to Andrew the sweet therapist to Summer, Ben’s ex. I thought the way she handled and reacted to things was wonderful.
As for the audio, I love Michael Dean, he’s so dramatic and good at the smut and the build up. Stephen Dexter is new to me but I liked his deep voice. I thought they should’ve switched roles though and it would’ve made a lot more sense.
I’m looking forward to the next book.
May 31, 2022
Really awesome.
You can feel the emotions suffering or traumatised people are expressing. The relationship comes so natural it made me swoon.
Pls a book about Roman??? That was my favourite character
You can feel the emotions suffering or traumatised people are expressing. The relationship comes so natural it made me swoon.
Pls a book about Roman??? That was my favourite character
June 19, 2022
Good, but with a bit of wasted potential.
Colby ends up bruised (but not broken) on the doorstep of Ben’s gym, looking for a job. Ben, who’s recently divorced and who has a bit of an hero-complex, wants to help Colby.
Having just (literally) fled from an abusive relationship, Colby is wary, not entirely trusting Ben’s motives, but they quickly become friends who share their past traumas with each other. And after a while, Ben discovered that he might not be as straight as he thought.
It was a sweet book, despite the trauma both characters had to deal with. But tbh despite reading about those events, I couldn’t really connect to their pain. They both were… idk. Too over it? Even though Colby clearly had to deal with his battered self esteem. And as some of my fellow goodread friends pointed out, the pacing felt a bit off - some things happened to quickly, and then suddenly we read that between one chapter and another, several weeks have passed.
So yes, while the two were cute together, and Ben was a really swoony boyfriend who accepted his bisexuality in a stride, and the book as a whole was good, I’ll rate it somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars.
Colby ends up bruised (but not broken) on the doorstep of Ben’s gym, looking for a job. Ben, who’s recently divorced and who has a bit of an hero-complex, wants to help Colby.
Having just (literally) fled from an abusive relationship, Colby is wary, not entirely trusting Ben’s motives, but they quickly become friends who share their past traumas with each other. And after a while, Ben discovered that he might not be as straight as he thought.
It was a sweet book, despite the trauma both characters had to deal with. But tbh despite reading about those events, I couldn’t really connect to their pain. They both were… idk. Too over it? Even though Colby clearly had to deal with his battered self esteem. And as some of my fellow goodread friends pointed out, the pacing felt a bit off - some things happened to quickly, and then suddenly we read that between one chapter and another, several weeks have passed.
So yes, while the two were cute together, and Ben was a really swoony boyfriend who accepted his bisexuality in a stride, and the book as a whole was good, I’ll rate it somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars.
December 16, 2022
"This thing with Ben? Yeah, it's so much more than a crush. It's going to be my utter destruction."
Bruised But Not Broken is the first in the Spark of Hope series by Nicole Dykes, which is set around a trauma support group.
This is Ben and Colby's story.
Ben is the owner of a gym, which is about to start hosting a bi-weekly trauma support group called Spark of Hope, the brainchild of his cop older brother and his best friend. Ben has recently separated from his wife of 10 years.
Colby is also newly separated - from an abusive, rich, older boyfriend. He finds his way to Ben's gym, which is looking for a new team member.
Bruised But Not Broken follows Ben's bi-awakening and their blossoming romance, alongside both of their gradual acceptance and understanding of their individual traumas, and what they need to move through their experiences. Together.
Angsty, steamy, cute. So, so lovely.
4 romantic stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bruised But Not Broken is the first in the Spark of Hope series by Nicole Dykes, which is set around a trauma support group.
This is Ben and Colby's story.
Ben is the owner of a gym, which is about to start hosting a bi-weekly trauma support group called Spark of Hope, the brainchild of his cop older brother and his best friend. Ben has recently separated from his wife of 10 years.
Colby is also newly separated - from an abusive, rich, older boyfriend. He finds his way to Ben's gym, which is looking for a new team member.
Bruised But Not Broken follows Ben's bi-awakening and their blossoming romance, alongside both of their gradual acceptance and understanding of their individual traumas, and what they need to move through their experiences. Together.
Angsty, steamy, cute. So, so lovely.
4 romantic stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
October 12, 2022
One of the best books I've read this year!!! 💜
I will start my review with the dedication of this book by Nicole Dykes:
Having trauma in your life doesn’t mean you’re weak or less than in any way. Being a human being in a rough world can be traumatic in itself. Be kind to yourself and to others. Heal the way you need to and don’t let anyone ever make you feel damaged.
This book, like all my books, is meant to give you power. To bring you strength. And to help you heal from the things you may never talk about. Whether you do or don’t, you can do this, and you can get through it.
I think this says a lot about the book.
Bruised But Not Broken is a love story and it's so much more. It's HOPE. The focus here are traumas (I won't say exactly what because of spoilers), but it isn't just mentioned and forgotten. No. The whole book is beautifully written, it's painful at times and it really does give you hope.
I will come back to this book in a few days to try and write a proper review. I can't seem to find the right words. Just know this book is worth reading! I would recommend it always!!! 💜💜💜
I will start my review with the dedication of this book by Nicole Dykes:
Having trauma in your life doesn’t mean you’re weak or less than in any way. Being a human being in a rough world can be traumatic in itself. Be kind to yourself and to others. Heal the way you need to and don’t let anyone ever make you feel damaged.
This book, like all my books, is meant to give you power. To bring you strength. And to help you heal from the things you may never talk about. Whether you do or don’t, you can do this, and you can get through it.
I think this says a lot about the book.
Bruised But Not Broken is a love story and it's so much more. It's HOPE. The focus here are traumas (I won't say exactly what because of spoilers), but it isn't just mentioned and forgotten. No. The whole book is beautifully written, it's painful at times and it really does give you hope.
I will come back to this book in a few days to try and write a proper review. I can't seem to find the right words. Just know this book is worth reading! I would recommend it always!!! 💜💜💜
August 20, 2022
The good
+ Ben helping Colby out without expecting anything in return
+ Colby accepting Ben's help because it's better than the alternative
+ Ben's bi-awakening. No freakouts because he trusted his own feelings
+ Ben and Colby spending night after night together just talking, both about difficult things and everyday stuff
+ Colby realizing he doesn't need all the sparkly stuff, but can be just as content (or most likely even happier) with Ben
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Ben's traumas were kind of in the background throughout the whole story. I understand it would have been too much to focus on both Colby and Ben, but Ben was still a person and needed help
The bad
- Most people at the gym had a very negative view on therapy. By being very vocal about this (going as far as calling it a cult) they made it very difficult for people who might want/need to attend (like Ethan) to work up the courage to go. It also didn't create a welcoming environment for the strangers showing up
- Colby shattered Ben's heart . I felt so awful for Ben. Later, it was 'resolved' without as much as an apology. There should have been a healthy dose of grovelling from Colby, but that never happened
- Colby and Ben both expressed thoughts about being jealous when the other would share in the therapy group. What? They should both be happy the other is working through it or trying to get better, instead of trying to hoard the information for themselves
- Colby just left an abusive relationship where he was punished for basically everything, like looking at a guy wrong. Then comes Ben, who should raise red flags for Colby (possessive and jealous behavior, for example), but it's all fine because with this guy it feels different. That's not how trauma works. Colby should have been terrified or put-off by a lot of things Ben said or did, but it just didn't happen. Hell, Ben bought him a TV and offered to buy him a phone and Colby didn't even blink, even though his previous relationship started with expensive gifts and ended with him 'owing' his partner things
- I didn't like Roman. He kept pushing Ben even when Ben clearly defined his boundaries. I felt that Roman didn't really respect Ben or his troubles
- Andrew was mad that Ben hadn't told him Ethan had a trauma. Excuse me? That is not Ben's information to share! You can't just gossip about people's traumas, Andrew! Ethan knew about the support group and he managed to get there on his own eventually just fine
I don't really know what to think of this book. I felt really weird about the therapy part, because everybody basically had a negative view on that and it never really changed. I thought this book would be about a trauma support group. Instead it's about how everybody hates the trauma support group but there's some kind of mandatory attendance for Ben and Roman. It made me really uncomfortable. Unfortunately, I don't think I would recommend this book.
+ Ben helping Colby out without expecting anything in return
+ Colby accepting Ben's help because it's better than the alternative
+ Ben's bi-awakening. No freakouts because he trusted his own feelings
+ Ben and Colby spending night after night together just talking, both about difficult things and everyday stuff
+ Colby realizing he doesn't need all the sparkly stuff, but can be just as content (or most likely even happier) with Ben
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Ben's traumas were kind of in the background throughout the whole story. I understand it would have been too much to focus on both Colby and Ben, but Ben was still a person and needed help
The bad
- Most people at the gym had a very negative view on therapy. By being very vocal about this (going as far as calling it a cult) they made it very difficult for people who might want/need to attend (like Ethan) to work up the courage to go. It also didn't create a welcoming environment for the strangers showing up
- Colby shattered Ben's heart . I felt so awful for Ben. Later, it was 'resolved' without as much as an apology. There should have been a healthy dose of grovelling from Colby, but that never happened
- Colby and Ben both expressed thoughts about being jealous when the other would share in the therapy group. What? They should both be happy the other is working through it or trying to get better, instead of trying to hoard the information for themselves
- Colby just left an abusive relationship where he was punished for basically everything, like looking at a guy wrong. Then comes Ben, who should raise red flags for Colby (possessive and jealous behavior, for example), but it's all fine because with this guy it feels different. That's not how trauma works. Colby should have been terrified or put-off by a lot of things Ben said or did, but it just didn't happen. Hell, Ben bought him a TV and offered to buy him a phone and Colby didn't even blink, even though his previous relationship started with expensive gifts and ended with him 'owing' his partner things
- I didn't like Roman. He kept pushing Ben even when Ben clearly defined his boundaries. I felt that Roman didn't really respect Ben or his troubles
- Andrew was mad that Ben hadn't told him Ethan had a trauma. Excuse me? That is not Ben's information to share! You can't just gossip about people's traumas, Andrew! Ethan knew about the support group and he managed to get there on his own eventually just fine
I don't really know what to think of this book. I felt really weird about the therapy part, because everybody basically had a negative view on that and it never really changed. I thought this book would be about a trauma support group. Instead it's about how everybody hates the trauma support group but there's some kind of mandatory attendance for Ben and Roman. It made me really uncomfortable. Unfortunately, I don't think I would recommend this book.
June 3, 2022
Swoon /5 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Angst /5 🥺🥺🥺🥺
Steam /5 ♨️♨️♨️♨️
Plot /5 🧐🧐🧐🧐
LOLs /5 🤭🤭🤭
Another GREAT read from a new favourite author, with this solid first book in a new series, revolving around a trauma support group called “Spark of Hope”. It’s an interesting premise for a series - a group of emotionally damaged people coming together to talk through their trauma experiences and gain support & perspective from others who understand. The two MCs, Colby & Ben, meet when Colby runs from his physically & emotionally abusive boyfriend, and enquires about a job at the gym owned by Ben. Ben has his own trauma history, and through sharing their experiences with each other, they build trust, friendship & eventual love.
While the developing romance between Colby & Ben, and Ben’s bisexual awakening is the main plot point, the support group brings all the other characters together & introduces us to MCs for the rest of the series. Ben’s brother Roman, and his best friend Andrew (a therapist), ask Ben if they can run support group meetings at Ben’s gym, despite Ben being personally against therapy. Roman & Ben’s humorously fractious relationship gives most of the laughs in the book, with Roman being a vivid character that is the MC for the next book.
The author has obviously done her homework on trauma, mental illness, and support options. It was written incredibly well and shows great insight into the mind of abuse & trauma survivors. The character arc for Colby in particular is so well done. In the beginning, when he runs from his physically abusive boyfriend, his self-blame stands out, but as he connects with & begins to trust Ben, the gentle assertions from Ben help him regain his self worth.
One bit in particular however really stood out to me from Ben:
“I’m not traumatized. It’s just life, Rome.” And I really, really don’t want to talk about our life.”
Some people, a LOT of people, don’t acknowledge that they have trauma, and even more people don’t want to seek help even if they do recognise their mental health is declining. We see Ben & Colby helping each other, juxtaposed with a formal support group with a therapist also helping others. A powerful message that there are lots of ways to get help, and whatever works for each individual is great.
The romantic connection between Ben & Colby was well-paced, slow-burn, but swooningly VISCERAL when the passion kicks in. I loved this couple SO MUCH.
Another cracking read. Can’t wait for the rest of the series. (I received an ARC from GRR & this is my honest review.)
Angst /5 🥺🥺🥺🥺
Steam /5 ♨️♨️♨️♨️
Plot /5 🧐🧐🧐🧐
LOLs /5 🤭🤭🤭
Another GREAT read from a new favourite author, with this solid first book in a new series, revolving around a trauma support group called “Spark of Hope”. It’s an interesting premise for a series - a group of emotionally damaged people coming together to talk through their trauma experiences and gain support & perspective from others who understand. The two MCs, Colby & Ben, meet when Colby runs from his physically & emotionally abusive boyfriend, and enquires about a job at the gym owned by Ben. Ben has his own trauma history, and through sharing their experiences with each other, they build trust, friendship & eventual love.
While the developing romance between Colby & Ben, and Ben’s bisexual awakening is the main plot point, the support group brings all the other characters together & introduces us to MCs for the rest of the series. Ben’s brother Roman, and his best friend Andrew (a therapist), ask Ben if they can run support group meetings at Ben’s gym, despite Ben being personally against therapy. Roman & Ben’s humorously fractious relationship gives most of the laughs in the book, with Roman being a vivid character that is the MC for the next book.
The author has obviously done her homework on trauma, mental illness, and support options. It was written incredibly well and shows great insight into the mind of abuse & trauma survivors. The character arc for Colby in particular is so well done. In the beginning, when he runs from his physically abusive boyfriend, his self-blame stands out, but as he connects with & begins to trust Ben, the gentle assertions from Ben help him regain his self worth.
One bit in particular however really stood out to me from Ben:
“I’m not traumatized. It’s just life, Rome.” And I really, really don’t want to talk about our life.”
Some people, a LOT of people, don’t acknowledge that they have trauma, and even more people don’t want to seek help even if they do recognise their mental health is declining. We see Ben & Colby helping each other, juxtaposed with a formal support group with a therapist also helping others. A powerful message that there are lots of ways to get help, and whatever works for each individual is great.
The romantic connection between Ben & Colby was well-paced, slow-burn, but swooningly VISCERAL when the passion kicks in. I loved this couple SO MUCH.
Another cracking read. Can’t wait for the rest of the series. (I received an ARC from GRR & this is my honest review.)
February 20, 2023
i kept putting this off because i thought it would be heavy and i definitely wasn’t in the mood.
i should’ve known better because this author has a special grace handling these kind of topics. she talks a lot about trauma, and while she makes me feel things i never get overwhelmed. but sometimes i shed a tear or two or a whole lot (hostile, i’m looking at you).
this focuses a lot on the characters and how they grow and i liked it so much.
you know that feeling when a book feels like 20 pages long because it flows so easily? that’s what this felt like.
i’m definitely going to read the next one in the series.
(also i feel like i could take out the reading slump out of my name but i really don’t want to jinx myself. my excuse for that is that i’m italian✨ we take our superstitions seriously)
i should’ve known better because this author has a special grace handling these kind of topics. she talks a lot about trauma, and while she makes me feel things i never get overwhelmed. but sometimes i shed a tear or two or a whole lot (hostile, i’m looking at you).
this focuses a lot on the characters and how they grow and i liked it so much.
you know that feeling when a book feels like 20 pages long because it flows so easily? that’s what this felt like.
i’m definitely going to read the next one in the series.
(also i feel like i could take out the reading slump out of my name but i really don’t want to jinx myself. my excuse for that is that i’m italian✨ we take our superstitions seriously)
July 9, 2023
Audio - 4 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
January 9, 2023
I was expecting a lot more angst!
May 26, 2022
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
Nicole Dykes always writes story with heart. Bruised but Not Broken was no exception. A story of two people who are dealing the trauma who somehow find their place with one another.
Ben is always the one doing the saving. His entire life he has been about being the hero. After a devastating night where Ben isn't able to save someone, he loves he settles in with his trauma. It becomes a part of him, living inside of him. That all changes when Colby walks into his gym. Bruised and lost just looking for safety.
Colby just wants to get away. Get away from the pain he is feeling from his ex. Their relationship wasn't always like this but when he started going against his ex, he was left more bruised and battered than he had ever been. Working part time at a gym might not be glamorous but it will get him to safety, but he never expected Ben.
Two lost souls just trying to make it to the next day come together through their own form of therapy. Group therapy isn't for everyone but the sessions at the gym give them the courage to believe that they deserve more, they deserve their happiness.
Sweet, spicy, and emotionally devastating at times I do think this series is going to leave you aching for these boys. I fell hard for Colby and Ben and the way they loved each other through it.
Nicole Dykes always writes story with heart. Bruised but Not Broken was no exception. A story of two people who are dealing the trauma who somehow find their place with one another.
Ben is always the one doing the saving. His entire life he has been about being the hero. After a devastating night where Ben isn't able to save someone, he loves he settles in with his trauma. It becomes a part of him, living inside of him. That all changes when Colby walks into his gym. Bruised and lost just looking for safety.
Colby just wants to get away. Get away from the pain he is feeling from his ex. Their relationship wasn't always like this but when he started going against his ex, he was left more bruised and battered than he had ever been. Working part time at a gym might not be glamorous but it will get him to safety, but he never expected Ben.
Two lost souls just trying to make it to the next day come together through their own form of therapy. Group therapy isn't for everyone but the sessions at the gym give them the courage to believe that they deserve more, they deserve their happiness.
Sweet, spicy, and emotionally devastating at times I do think this series is going to leave you aching for these boys. I fell hard for Colby and Ben and the way they loved each other through it.
January 29, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! I was coming off a terrible book hangover and this was the perfect book for it!🤩
Ben & Colby are sweet together. They have some very difficult obstacles and past traumas to get through, and they work on it together, which strengthens their relationship. They both wanted so much to be the best guy for the other! I fell hard for Ben with his caring ways and hero complex! He is such a good guy with a devastating childhood past. 💔
You’ll end up cheering for him along the way too! It’s inevitable, Ben is just a good soul! And sweet Colby who is a bit younger than Ben, was actually so perfect for him. Also, the steam was perfect too! Again, our hero, Ben was so open and carefree about his new discovery about himself! We need more Bens in the world!😁
⚠️ Definitely check the trigger warnings as there is serious trauma in the book!
This was a great BR, I am very much looking forward to buddy reading book 2 about Roman, Ben’s 👮♀️ brother!😍 can’t wait Debbie! 🤩
🎧 Narrator, Michael Dean is always great! First time for Stephen Dexter and his voice is so deep and sexy!! Glad they’ll be around for book 2! Minor thing, as both voices are very pleasant to me, but I do think it would have been a better experience if the narrators had been switched.
Ben & Colby are sweet together. They have some very difficult obstacles and past traumas to get through, and they work on it together, which strengthens their relationship. They both wanted so much to be the best guy for the other! I fell hard for Ben with his caring ways and hero complex! He is such a good guy with a devastating childhood past. 💔
You’ll end up cheering for him along the way too! It’s inevitable, Ben is just a good soul! And sweet Colby who is a bit younger than Ben, was actually so perfect for him. Also, the steam was perfect too! Again, our hero, Ben was so open and carefree about his new discovery about himself! We need more Bens in the world!😁
⚠️ Definitely check the trigger warnings as there is serious trauma in the book!
This was a great BR, I am very much looking forward to buddy reading book 2 about Roman, Ben’s 👮♀️ brother!😍 can’t wait Debbie! 🤩
🎧 Narrator, Michael Dean is always great! First time for Stephen Dexter and his voice is so deep and sexy!! Glad they’ll be around for book 2! Minor thing, as both voices are very pleasant to me, but I do think it would have been a better experience if the narrators had been switched.
June 15, 2022
3.75
Finding love after an abusive relationship can be difficult & For a story about trauma its not too angsty.
•lots of pining
•🌶🌶🌶🌶
•lots of fluff
•multiple side characters to continue a series with
Finding love after an abusive relationship can be difficult & For a story about trauma its not too angsty.
•lots of pining
•🌶🌶🌶🌶
•lots of fluff
•multiple side characters to continue a series with
May 31, 2022
Oh cuties 😍😍
Bruised but not broken is an heartwarming story.
Despite dealing with heavy topics, the author managed to create a "light" story full of hope and love.
Ben and Colby really know what trauma means. It doesn’t mean they want to talk about it tho.
But once their path cross and they begin to know each other, they gonna find solace in one another... they gonna heal each other.
I loved their relationship,
Colby' strenght and Ben' protectiveness.
I really enjoyed Ben and his brother' bantering 😂
And most of all I loved the feeling of acceptance the story brings up 💜
This is just the second book i read from Nicole Dykes but i've come to adore her men and their sweetness....
I'm looking forward for the next book in this new series 🤩
Bruised but not broken is an heartwarming story.
Despite dealing with heavy topics, the author managed to create a "light" story full of hope and love.
Ben and Colby really know what trauma means. It doesn’t mean they want to talk about it tho.
But once their path cross and they begin to know each other, they gonna find solace in one another... they gonna heal each other.
I loved their relationship,
Colby' strenght and Ben' protectiveness.
I really enjoyed Ben and his brother' bantering 😂
And most of all I loved the feeling of acceptance the story brings up 💜
This is just the second book i read from Nicole Dykes but i've come to adore her men and their sweetness....
I'm looking forward for the next book in this new series 🤩
May 26, 2022
"He's not broken. Maybe he's a little bruised up like the rest of us, but he's far from shattered."
This book illuminates how trauma comes in many forms. It could stem from abuse or an accident. It could come from a close call. It could even be from something you witnessed happen to someone else entirely. There's no rulebook for what is deemed traumatic. What might be for some, isn't for others. Nicole Dykes handled this topic with the care it deserves, while also telling us a beautiful love story brought on by healing and friendship.
Ben is a savior. He's also one of the kindest MCs I've ever read. His empathy is strong, so strong that sometimes he takes too much onto himself. Not everyone wants to be saved. Others just want to be the one to save themselves. That's Colby. At the start he feels leery of Ben's kindness. After getting to know Ben more, Colby's leeriness turns into feeling unworthiness. How could someone like him deserve a man like Ben in his corner?
As Ben and Colby get closer, Colbys self esteem gets higher. Their friendship grows everyday and they share things with each other they've never told anyone else. Slowly but surely the healing begins. Then the romance does. It was definitely a slow burn steam wise, but that was important for this book. Colby needed to learn to love himself, to trust himself. Ben needed to let Colby thrive on his own. When they finally got together, both were surprised with how easy it was. They slotted perfectly with each other and I think that's truly because the friendship and trust came first. It didn't matter that Ben had never been with anyone but his ex wife. Colby made him happy, that's all that mattered. Somehow, he made Colby happy too and I just loved how it all played out.
We get a little teaser for the next book and I have to say I can't wait. Roman was such a funny side character. I loved how he liked to bust Ben's chops all the time. I'm hoping Andrew and Ethan get their own books too. So many likeable side characters. Never a bad problem to have!
This book illuminates how trauma comes in many forms. It could stem from abuse or an accident. It could come from a close call. It could even be from something you witnessed happen to someone else entirely. There's no rulebook for what is deemed traumatic. What might be for some, isn't for others. Nicole Dykes handled this topic with the care it deserves, while also telling us a beautiful love story brought on by healing and friendship.
Ben is a savior. He's also one of the kindest MCs I've ever read. His empathy is strong, so strong that sometimes he takes too much onto himself. Not everyone wants to be saved. Others just want to be the one to save themselves. That's Colby. At the start he feels leery of Ben's kindness. After getting to know Ben more, Colby's leeriness turns into feeling unworthiness. How could someone like him deserve a man like Ben in his corner?
As Ben and Colby get closer, Colbys self esteem gets higher. Their friendship grows everyday and they share things with each other they've never told anyone else. Slowly but surely the healing begins. Then the romance does. It was definitely a slow burn steam wise, but that was important for this book. Colby needed to learn to love himself, to trust himself. Ben needed to let Colby thrive on his own. When they finally got together, both were surprised with how easy it was. They slotted perfectly with each other and I think that's truly because the friendship and trust came first. It didn't matter that Ben had never been with anyone but his ex wife. Colby made him happy, that's all that mattered. Somehow, he made Colby happy too and I just loved how it all played out.
We get a little teaser for the next book and I have to say I can't wait. Roman was such a funny side character. I loved how he liked to bust Ben's chops all the time. I'm hoping Andrew and Ethan get their own books too. So many likeable side characters. Never a bad problem to have!
June 22, 2022
It’s been weeks since I read this and I honestly don't remember all that much. I remember things about the story, but not if I really liked it.
So I guess 3 stars and I need to re-read to make sure?
So I guess 3 stars and I need to re-read to make sure?
November 3, 2022
Bruised But Not Broken by Nicole Dykes is book 1 in the Spark Of Hope series.
I've heard so many great things about Nicole Dykes' writing, so I was curious to see for myself what makes her so beloved. I can only admit that I, too, have fallen under her spell.
I chose Bruised But Not Broken for my first book by this author because it deals with a subject that is near and dear to me. As a counsellor, I always promote the importance of opening up and talking about your difficulties. Whether it is to a family member, a friend or a professional. In my opinion, Nicole's book has really brought this to light and I also hope, as she mentions in her author's note, that it will inspire others to do the same.
I was touched by Colby's journey. To see him almost shattered after the abuse he experienced and to see him so hesitant to trust again and be vulnerable with another man. I loved how patient Ben was with Colby and how he respected his pace without ever forcing anything on him. I also loved how Colby was able to realize that he has a strength within himself and that he is in fact responsible for being able to get out of this situation.
Even though the book deals with some topics that can be heavy, they are handled in a very gentle and tactful way. It was a wonderful story that I read very quickly, which is rather surprising for me since I am a slow reader.
The message in this book is so powerful, positive and I would say necessary. Thank you Nicole for this gift. I am convinced that your book and this series can make a difference.
I can't wait to continue the series and learn more about Roman, Ben’s brother.
I've heard so many great things about Nicole Dykes' writing, so I was curious to see for myself what makes her so beloved. I can only admit that I, too, have fallen under her spell.
I chose Bruised But Not Broken for my first book by this author because it deals with a subject that is near and dear to me. As a counsellor, I always promote the importance of opening up and talking about your difficulties. Whether it is to a family member, a friend or a professional. In my opinion, Nicole's book has really brought this to light and I also hope, as she mentions in her author's note, that it will inspire others to do the same.
I was touched by Colby's journey. To see him almost shattered after the abuse he experienced and to see him so hesitant to trust again and be vulnerable with another man. I loved how patient Ben was with Colby and how he respected his pace without ever forcing anything on him. I also loved how Colby was able to realize that he has a strength within himself and that he is in fact responsible for being able to get out of this situation.
Even though the book deals with some topics that can be heavy, they are handled in a very gentle and tactful way. It was a wonderful story that I read very quickly, which is rather surprising for me since I am a slow reader.
The message in this book is so powerful, positive and I would say necessary. Thank you Nicole for this gift. I am convinced that your book and this series can make a difference.
I can't wait to continue the series and learn more about Roman, Ben’s brother.
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May 7, 2025Time of death 23% {DNF}
I thought this was going to be an emotional healing book about traumatized men coming together but it’s more of an instant must protect and a guy wanting to be protected? Idk it’s all just too cringe for me. I’m being told how these dudes feel and in return how I should feel about them and how they are like basically already into each other when they have had two conversations. The writing is not doing it for me and the characters are just blah. There is no connection between me and these characters because the way they are written are just kind of annoying? Plus I feel like the writing in this book would have been good for a 1st draft but there is no emotion or texture to it. It’s clinical point a to point b, character a feels like this, character b does and feels this but without depth. Kinda disappointed because I like their Kensley Panther books but of course those are no emotionally motivated book, just fun dudes falling in love with football so yeah. Does not work at all for me sadly.
I thought this was going to be an emotional healing book about traumatized men coming together but it’s more of an instant must protect and a guy wanting to be protected? Idk it’s all just too cringe for me. I’m being told how these dudes feel and in return how I should feel about them and how they are like basically already into each other when they have had two conversations. The writing is not doing it for me and the characters are just blah. There is no connection between me and these characters because the way they are written are just kind of annoying? Plus I feel like the writing in this book would have been good for a 1st draft but there is no emotion or texture to it. It’s clinical point a to point b, character a feels like this, character b does and feels this but without depth. Kinda disappointed because I like their Kensley Panther books but of course those are no emotionally motivated book, just fun dudes falling in love with football so yeah. Does not work at all for me sadly.
June 2, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. The summary made it seem like it was the perfect type of book I'd pick up and read at any given time. Trama and therapy and angst filled. But this book felt like it lacked the emotion. I didn't feel connected to the characters one bit. Almost every charchter in this book made it seem like therapy was bad, and that it'd never help someone in the end. Then, for Colby to just instantly tell his story to Ben, when there was no trust yet....it just didn't feel right.
(I received an arc from GRR)
(I received an arc from GRR)
August 12, 2022
⭐︎
3.5 stars rounded up!
⭐︎
Unfortunately, this was not got as good and enjoyable as Hostile, which I absolutely adored. It's a good thing I read that one first, I think, because I think I wouldn't be quite so eager to read more of this author after reading this.
Which isn't to say it was bad. It was enjoyable and I liked Colby and Ben together a lot.
I guess they just didn't have that extra 'oomf' that the main couple in 'Hostile' had to make me absolutely adore and love them.
I felt that these two happened a little too fast, and they didn't have such amazing chemistry and connection that it made up for that fast pace, unfortunately.
Also, Colby starts off this book coming right off an abusive relationship, so it felt a little too fast, too soon, for him to be so okay with Ben and so trusting and ready to be in a new relationship. Even if they did start a new relationship so soon, it would have been nice to see Colby maybe struggle in their relationship.
Not because of anything Ben does, but just because of what he went through. Like maybe they get in an argument and Ben raises his voice and Colby gets triggers. Or Ben steps toward him and Colby flinches back - which he did *right* at the very beginning, but not much after they got to know each other a little bit.
The only thing that really stuck with Colby throughout this is the emotional and verbal abuse his ex perpetrated towards him. Which is good, but he didn't struggle with it enough, you know? He had his moments of doubt, of hearing his voice in his head, but he was able to get over it fairly well, especially with the help of others around him reassuring him. But he was also physically abused, so I did expect more of Colby struggling with the physical part of his and Ben's relationship, and he never did.
Also I didn't quite like the negative attitude Ben and Colby had towards therapy. I mean, I get if it's something they hate to do and it's really hard for them to talk about what they went through, obviously, but this book introduced the whole trauma group thing into this story, and Ben and Colby both attend, but still have a "eh, it's not quite for me" attitude towards it, and I was hoping the opposite would happen and they'd find it very useful and then want to see a therapist professionally.
Because Ben also had trauma that he had a very big "talking doesn't help" attitude about. He had an abusive father, a junkie mother, who was murdered by his father, which Ben witnessed part of and had to go through a whole trial and everything, and you're telling me Ben isn't stills supremely fucked up from this? Even 20+ years later, especially when he's never talked to anyone about it, or gotten help over it? Like??
For a book focused so heavily on trauma and having them form a whole trauma support group, it wasn't handled 100% the best.
Now, it wasn't handled horrible or anything and it treated it with respect, but how the characters went about their trauma and dealt with it didn't feel entirely realistic. Ben especially, because I feel like he should have blown up at some point from all that trauma he was keeping buried, but he just talks about it with Colby - and only Colby - and he's all fine? I just didn't buy it.
Which, yes, I loved that they shared such deep, personal things with each other. They should do that and they should talk things out. These two were very good at communicating with each other - which is amazing for their relationship and I'm very happy about that part of this - but it's just that...talking to your partner or loved ones is part of healing, but not all of it. They both should have seen a therapist, I think.
This would have been so great to get these two characters so resistant to therapy and talking and have them go through a whole metamorphosis into wanting to go to therapy. Talking in the support group is a great first step, but it's not the personalized, one-on-one that they would truly need, ya know?
I just think there were several areas this could have been improved upon to make it amazing.
It was still enjoyable and I liked the majority of Ben and Colby's scenes. I just didn't love them, and a few other niggles just made me feel like I couldn't give it the 5 stars I wish I could have, because I adored 'Hostile' so so much.
I will definitely read more of this author, though. This was still an enjoyable read overall and I hope to come across another read by this author that is like 'Hostile', because if I can get that invested in a story of this author's again and be so invested in the couple, I'll be so happy.
This one, unfortunately, just wasn't it. Still good, but not great, not amazing.
Still recommend this though, a definite thumbs up from me. Just not the amazing second outing I was hoping it would be. Oh well, onto the next!
Unfortunately, this was not got as good and enjoyable as Hostile, which I absolutely adored. It's a good thing I read that one first, I think, because I think I wouldn't be quite so eager to read more of this author after reading this.
Which isn't to say it was bad. It was enjoyable and I liked Colby and Ben together a lot.
I guess they just didn't have that extra 'oomf' that the main couple in 'Hostile' had to make me absolutely adore and love them.
I felt that these two happened a little too fast, and they didn't have such amazing chemistry and connection that it made up for that fast pace, unfortunately.
Also, Colby starts off this book coming right off an abusive relationship, so it felt a little too fast, too soon, for him to be so okay with Ben and so trusting and ready to be in a new relationship. Even if they did start a new relationship so soon, it would have been nice to see Colby maybe struggle in their relationship.
Not because of anything Ben does, but just because of what he went through. Like maybe they get in an argument and Ben raises his voice and Colby gets triggers. Or Ben steps toward him and Colby flinches back - which he did *right* at the very beginning, but not much after they got to know each other a little bit.
The only thing that really stuck with Colby throughout this is the emotional and verbal abuse his ex perpetrated towards him. Which is good, but he didn't struggle with it enough, you know? He had his moments of doubt, of hearing his voice in his head, but he was able to get over it fairly well, especially with the help of others around him reassuring him. But he was also physically abused, so I did expect more of Colby struggling with the physical part of his and Ben's relationship, and he never did.
Also I didn't quite like the negative attitude Ben and Colby had towards therapy. I mean, I get if it's something they hate to do and it's really hard for them to talk about what they went through, obviously, but this book introduced the whole trauma group thing into this story, and Ben and Colby both attend, but still have a "eh, it's not quite for me" attitude towards it, and I was hoping the opposite would happen and they'd find it very useful and then want to see a therapist professionally.
Because Ben also had trauma that he had a very big "talking doesn't help" attitude about. He had an abusive father, a junkie mother, who was murdered by his father, which Ben witnessed part of and had to go through a whole trial and everything, and you're telling me Ben isn't stills supremely fucked up from this? Even 20+ years later, especially when he's never talked to anyone about it, or gotten help over it? Like??
For a book focused so heavily on trauma and having them form a whole trauma support group, it wasn't handled 100% the best.
Now, it wasn't handled horrible or anything and it treated it with respect, but how the characters went about their trauma and dealt with it didn't feel entirely realistic. Ben especially, because I feel like he should have blown up at some point from all that trauma he was keeping buried, but he just talks about it with Colby - and only Colby - and he's all fine? I just didn't buy it.
Which, yes, I loved that they shared such deep, personal things with each other. They should do that and they should talk things out. These two were very good at communicating with each other - which is amazing for their relationship and I'm very happy about that part of this - but it's just that...talking to your partner or loved ones is part of healing, but not all of it. They both should have seen a therapist, I think.
This would have been so great to get these two characters so resistant to therapy and talking and have them go through a whole metamorphosis into wanting to go to therapy. Talking in the support group is a great first step, but it's not the personalized, one-on-one that they would truly need, ya know?
I just think there were several areas this could have been improved upon to make it amazing.
It was still enjoyable and I liked the majority of Ben and Colby's scenes. I just didn't love them, and a few other niggles just made me feel like I couldn't give it the 5 stars I wish I could have, because I adored 'Hostile' so so much.
I will definitely read more of this author, though. This was still an enjoyable read overall and I hope to come across another read by this author that is like 'Hostile', because if I can get that invested in a story of this author's again and be so invested in the couple, I'll be so happy.
This one, unfortunately, just wasn't it. Still good, but not great, not amazing.
Still recommend this though, a definite thumbs up from me. Just not the amazing second outing I was hoping it would be. Oh well, onto the next!
May 25, 2022
Bruised But Not Broken is the first book in a series exploring characters who have experienced trauma. It was a beautiful story, that yes, was at times sad, but it was also playful, and sweet, and sexy. Two genuine and kind men who have their past pain and the struggles that have left them with. But together they learn how to heal and forgive (themselves and others).
Ben and Colby complement each other wonderfully. They are fun and flirty with one another, but also there for the tough stuff. As Colby learns to believe in himself, Ben learns to stop hiding behind his need to ‘save’ people. In short, they are pretty adorable together, and nothing can be better than them getting their happy ending.
This story is deep and covers difficult topics, but it didn’t feel oppressive or draining. Rather the opposite, in fact, it definitely had an optimistic vibe.
< ARC provided and this is my honest review >
Ben and Colby complement each other wonderfully. They are fun and flirty with one another, but also there for the tough stuff. As Colby learns to believe in himself, Ben learns to stop hiding behind his need to ‘save’ people. In short, they are pretty adorable together, and nothing can be better than them getting their happy ending.
This story is deep and covers difficult topics, but it didn’t feel oppressive or draining. Rather the opposite, in fact, it definitely had an optimistic vibe.
< ARC provided and this is my honest review >
May 31, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. BUT..this book felt a little cringy at times AND I really loathed Ben’s brother Roman. He was just ick and his smugness rubbed me the wrong way.
Something was off. It’s a book based around a trauma therapy group but the characters seem to scoff at it which seems like an odd choice.
Ben has a hero complex and Colby really could save himself. Their slow burn to love should have been hot but left me scratching my head. Their dialogue was a bit awkward and I didn’t feel their dynamic.
This is book 1 in the series but I’m not sure I’m compelled enough to read book 2. 😵💫
June 9, 2022
This was a really good book. I feel like I say that a lot about the books I read but sometimes simple is best. I was definitely in the mood for a bi awakening book and this definitely got the spot. I also really enjoyed that they did not make Bens ex-wife into a horrible homophobe or catty person. I feel like even though a lot of MM Romance novels are written by women there’s a lot of casual misogyny and women hate thrown in which always throws me for a loop. Thankfully this one did not have any of that. There is on page reference to past domestic violence if that is a TW for anyone. Overall great read that I enjoyed.
June 27, 2022
Ben and Colby are the best! I loved their relationship and the ease they had with each other. Although the book deals with tough issues, Ben and Colby had no drama between them and I loved that.
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