Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Broken Road

Rate this book
Jarrod Wentworth is a handsome and athletic eighteen-year-old who is on the path to a wonderful and fulfilling life. But when a horrific car accident takes the life of his best friend and leaves him badly injured, his life will never be the same. With physical injuries that are so severely disabling that his dream of playing professional baseball is all but extinguished, he begins to spiral into emotional turmoil.

In the depths of despair, Jarrod can’t seem to climb out of his depression, even as his body begins to heal. That is until he meets Angelise Skyler. Like a light from heaven, Angel, as he likes to call her, brings clarity, strength, and love back to Jarrod’s life, all while steering him back toward the path to a better life. But when Angel is taken from him, Jarrod will stop at nothing to bring her back safely. Forced into a desperate search through a menacing web of danger, Jarrod is led further into the unknown than he ever thought possible. But for Angel he’ll do anything, because he knows how lost he was before he met her, and more importantly, because she taught him that through love, faith, and perseverance, you can always find a way off the broken road.

Jarrod and Angelise’s dramatic yet tender story in Broken Road is one that illustrates how important and encompassing love can be. Jarrod’s rise from the depths of depression at the hands of Angelise proves to be equally heartwarming and inspiring. Yet it’s the extremes that Jarrod will go to rescue his Angel that readers are truly shown the appreciation, devotion, and perseverance that he possesses inside. With rage and agonizing despair over losing his saving grace, Jarrod’s heroic efforts to bring her back make for a truly gripping experience. Its drama, despair, romance, and Jarrod’s inspiring ascension back from depression make this enchanting novel by Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi possess a little something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.

Broken Road is a captivating romantic fiction novel that emphasizes the importance of faith, love, and perseverance. Geared towards a more mature young adult audience, the novel doesn’t hesitate to broach heavier themes than most other novels in the young adult genre. Filled with as much drama as romance, this engaging story has a crossover appeal that defies classification, and readers of all types will be hooked from the very beginning.

Broken Road is Yu-Gesualdi’s debut novel. Originally from New Jersey, Yu-Gesualdi moved to Connecticut in 2005. For the past sixteen years, she has been a stay at home mother for her two sons, Jarrod and Alec. Shockingly, outside of an A+ in high school creative writing, her captivating debut novel is her first writing experience. She currently lives in Connecticut with her husband, David, and their two children.

408 pages, Paperback

First published February 27, 2013

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi

2 books15 followers
Broken Road is Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi’s debut novel. Originally from New Jersey, Yu-Gesualdi moved to Connecticut in 2005. For the past seventeen years, she has been a stay at home mother for her two sons, Jarrod and Alec. Shockingly, outside of an A+ in high school creative writing, her captivating debut novel is her first writing experience. Yu-Gesualdi is also a member of the Romance Writers of America. She currently lives in Connecticut with her husband, David, and their two children.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
35 (51%)
4 stars
15 (22%)
3 stars
13 (19%)
2 stars
2 (2%)
1 star
3 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Trinity.
250 reviews138 followers
October 14, 2013
(Source: I received a paperback version of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi)

I loved this book so much!! I cried so much at the beginning! I wasted a 50 sheet tissue box! This book really touched my heart and I never knew how much I could cry in a book until I read this one. I would not forget this book because:

1. Of the Romance
2. The way this book touched my heart
3. How Jarrod would go to the extremes to be with Angel

Although I loved this book, there are few scenes that I do not advise -12 and under to read, this is more of a Teen Book and YA, I was completely comfortable with all the writing but had to tell my sister she couldn't read it (even though she really wanted to) Because I thought the writing would be too intense for her.

But other than that, this is a heart warming book and if your looking for a nice book to read, just pick this up and you won't be sorry.

Read More - The Little BookWorm Girl
1 review
April 8, 2013
This was a great first book by a new author! Similar to the style of Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Pichoult....young adults face a critical issue in their lives and encounter obstacles and drama along the way. Very down to earth and realistic with regards to today's adolescents! A little romance, a big turning point and enough of a "what happens next" to keep you reading! I could not put it down and was not disappointed in the ending! The author left enough to make the reader wonder what would happen in her next novel! Definitely recommend it!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
61 reviews3 followers
May 17, 2013
Oh how I loved this book. It's like Aladdin's diamond in the rough. I ctried like a baby for the first 25% of the book, was happy for the next 25%. Then out of the blue the book starts taking on really dark and scary undertones. So for the next 30% of the book I was terrified for Angel and Jarrod. I was a little bummed that the epilogue didn't go into a more of their relationship but pleasantly surprised to see what was going on with Alec and glad Morgan got what she deserved. I will gladly sing the praises of this book and will be recommending it to everyone.
Profile Image for Britt.
318 reviews81 followers
June 27, 2013
I didn't know what to expect when I read the teaser from this book but after about 30 pages your in deep!! I've never been more emotionally invested in reading in my life. The authors word play was new and captivating while her rich characters felt extremely real. The struggle they all went thru mirrors life like nothing I've ever read. This book is a strait heart warmer and if your looking for a great feel good read. Look no further. This book has everything u could want. The best part is this is her debut!!Can not WAIT to see what she comes out with next!
Profile Image for Rosaria.
18 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2013
5 stars for this debut novel by Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi. Broken Road is the story of Jarrod Wentworth, an attractive, popular, athletic eighteen-year-old high school senior who experiences the tragic loss of his endearing friend, Dante, in an automobile accident that also leaves him near death himself and may possibly cost him a career in professional baseball.

Depression takes over as Jarrod struggles to find any semblance of hope for the future. Even his biggest fan and younger brother Alec is unable to help him see that he has a life to live. A chance meeting with his ex-girlfriend’s cousin, Angelise Skyler (or Angel as she is called), marks the turning point when he discovers he has an instant undeniable connection with the beautiful girl with the titian hair and green eyes. She is the opposite of her nasty, scheming selfish cousin, Morgan.


It’s weird, but I just have this feeling as if we’ve already met,” he said.
“I know we haven’t.”
“I’m not so sure. I think we may have…once upon a time in my dreams.”
A slow smile made its way to her mouth. “I’m impressed. How long have you been working
on that line?”
He chuckled and said, “Awhile now. How’d I do?”
“Not bad. Not bad at all. But maybe next time you might consider adding a sexy, smoldering
look when you say it,” she said as she gave a him a sly wink.


Jarrod
description
Angel
description
Morgan
description

Initially their relationship is thwarted even before it has begun because of the malicious interference put out by a very jealous Morgan. I absolutely love Ileana for being the best-ever best friend Angel could hope for. A chance meeting between her and Jarrod allows things to be set right and for Jarrod and Angel to be reunited.

“We could take it real slow,” he said. “As slow as you want. You set the pace.”
She looked into his dazzling blue eyes as he gazed right back into her smoldering green ones
and then she quietly said, “I can’t start anything until I find Ile.”
“You still want to kill her?” he asked sadly, still holding her hand and caressing it with his
thumb. He looked down at their clasped hands, afraid to hear what her answer might be.
“No. I need to thank her.”


But when a turn of events causes Morgan to lose control of her machinations – Angel is placed in harms way. In the end it is Jarrod’s quick thinking and brave actions that save Angel.

This is a well written story geared towards a mature YA reader with an added twist of drama that normally isn’t present in this genre. The dialogue and concerns evoked by the characters are in tune with the current lingo used by senior high school and young college students. There are scenes filled with tears and much pain as well as funny exchanges that lighten up the mood.

“Will that rubdown Angel promised you take all night, or should I expect you back?”
Alec whispered to Jarrod.
“I don’t know. My shoulder really, really hurts…,” he said, smiling.
“Lucky bastard,” said Alec as he stopped in front of his and Jarrod’s room and opened the door.
“Good night, Angel” he said.
“Goodnight Alec,” she responded. “Don’t wait up for Jarrod.” Well, that answered his question.


At various moments throughout the book we get the POV of not only Jarrod and Angel, but many of the other key side characters like Morgan, Alec and Angel’s best friend Ileana in this story. While Jarrod and Angel’s relationship does evolve into an intimate one – the heat and desire felt by the characters and their actions are described in the subtle language that is expected of YA genre stories. It captures young love in a very believable way. Angel has lived a sheltered life and is naïve at first, having never been sexually active until meeting Jarrod but he is willing to wait until she is ready.

“Whatever you want. I want this to be perfect for you, and I promise to take it slow and
do my best to not hurt you. I love you,” he said as he bent his head down and kissed her
again. Then he leaned over her and turned off the lights. “I love you here…and here..and
here…and here…,” he said after every kiss he placed on her body, leaving a trail of passion
and lust.


I loved the discussion Jarrod has with his mom about the different paths available to all of us in life and that the hardest one being the broken road – the same one he found himself on after his accident. Through much perseverance, hard physical work, the strength found from the love of family, friends and Angel, Jarrod is able to believe in himself again and find a way off the broken road in order to live his dream and get his life back.

I am very much looking forward to further books from Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi. Most especially, I would love to read about:
1) The adorable and loyal Alec and his childhood girl pal Cameron – the one he secretly loves and may lose to a British fake if he doesn’t come clean about his true feelings.
2) Angel’s wonderful best friend Ileana and her not-so-secret admirer Dave who happens to be Jarrod’s large, amusing quarterback roommate.
3) Finally, I am curious as to what happens to the much-despised Morgan. I hope she is able to get over the pain of having a father who didn’t care enough to be part of her life and that she can become a good person after all. I would like to see her find happiness and love in her life.
Profile Image for Joan.
199 reviews64 followers
August 3, 2013
* * * * 4 S T A R S * * * *

This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster of tragedy, heartbreak, and, ultimately, love. Great debut novel by Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi!

Broken Road is the story of Jarrod Wentworth ~ A handsome 18 year-old high school senior/aspiring baseball player on the verge of realizing his dream of taking his athletic talents to the next level. And then there’s Angelise “Angel” Skyler ~ A beautiful (but slightly naïve) 18 year-old year high school senior who dreams of going to college and making her parents proud. A mixture of tragedy and fate conspire to bring these two together but in order to stay together they will need to overcome past traumas, lying ex’s and a danger that neither one of them saw coming.

I was hooked to this story from page one! By chapter 3… I was already in tears! I loved how Jarrod’s story was built up in the beginning. I felt his and his family’s struggle every step of the way. It was heartbreaking but so beautifully written that even through my tears I wanted more. By the time Jarrod and Angelise finally meet, I was so desperate for some happiness that I found myself wishing for an “insta-love” moment ~ Not usually my style ~ but I didn’t exactly get my wish… At least not the way I thought… Yes, that was pretty vague and somewhat cryptic but I’m trying not to spoil anything. ;)

So… just when I think I’m getting to the “high-on-love” part of this emotional roller coaster (my favorite part), crazy events take place that take this story in a direction I didn’t expect. For me, some of the craziness was unnecessary and it took me away from the overall journey I was on with these two characters. This was the only reason why I didn’t give this book that extra star. Otherwise, the writing was beautiful and I just couldn’t enough of the secondary characters. I loved Ileana (Angelise’s best friend) and Alec (Jarrod’s younger brother)! I thought they were phenomenal throughout the story. They were hilarious, supportive, and, most of the time, they were the voice of reason. The heat factor in this story was mild but the overall chemistry and sexual tension between Jarrod and Angel could not be denied. There was no cliffhanger at the end of this book but… I don’t think I’m ready to let go. I would love to see a second book about… oh I don’t know… maybe, Jarrod’s funny, sweet, and equally good-looking brother Alec would be nice… you know, just a thought. ;)

This was a great read and I would definitely recommend this book!

I received this e-RRC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tami Talbert.
441 reviews16 followers
October 24, 2013
I was offered Broken Road in exchange for an honest review. Though after reading the synopsis I had the distinct impression this book would require an entire box of tissues, it did not. Although Broken Road most definitely includes plenty of emotional and heart-wrenching moments which do require a tissue or two, it is a lovely novel of love, healing and finding your path home.

Jarrod Wentworth is a young, up-and-coming, very talented pitcher from New Jersey. On the night of winning the championship game he is spotted by a scout for professional baseball who wishes to discuss his future. But on his way to celebrate his team's victory, Jarrod is involved in a devastating accident. When he wakes up he discovers that not only did the accident take the life of his best friend, it has forever changed his life as well. During Jarrod's struggle to cope with the loss of Dante as well as with the long and grueling process of recovery, he meets Angelise and for the first time since the accident begins to see his future once again and is instantly captivated by her beauty and grace.

Angelise Skyler is a very sweet and giving young woman. During her last summer before starting college, she decides to take a trip to New Jersey to visit her Aunt. While attending a party during her stay, she meets Jarrod and feels an immediate connection with him and senses that Jarrod feels the same. As their relationship progresses, their spirits continue to be drawn together and their love for each other deepens. But when Angelise suddenly disappears, Jarrod will stop at nothing to rescue the “Angel” who saved his heart to bring her home safe.

Broken Road is a debut novel for Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi and she has definitely hit a homerun. A very well-written tale that begins with an unfortunate accident and ultimately leads to healing both physically and mentally, as well as discovering unrelenting love. This novel is not only a wonderful love story, but is also a journey to accepting a heartbreaking loss and learning to heal through the comfort and support of those who are experiencing the same unimaginable tragedy. There are also some on the edge of your seat moments when I just couldn’t stop reading because I had to know what was going to happen next.

I truly enjoyed Ms. Yu-Gesualdi’s writing style which takes us through the story by experiencing points of view of each character which definitely gave a more thorough understanding of the thoughts and feelings of everyone as the story progressed. I will definitely be on the lookout for future writings by Ms. Yu-Gesualti.
1 review13 followers
January 29, 2014
This book was wonderful! I hadn't read for fun in a long time, but upon embarking on a road trip, I researched for hours for a book that had romance, mystery, action, and more romance. Broken Road seemed to fit the bill, so I downloaded it, but it was so good I ended up finishing it well before the road trip was done! It reignited my love of reading, and I haven't been able to stop since!

What I loved about the book is the emotion the author is able to evoke from the readers. I laughed, cried, and sat on the edge of my seat for half of it. There's just the right amount of angst, tension, action, etc. The love story is great, and definitely kept me flipping pages.

I can't wait for Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi to gift us with another one of her stories! This is a must read for anyone who is sick of the YA/NA Romance cliches. This book is so much more than the hundreds of books I've read since. The characters are strong, likable, and memorable. I can't say even one bad word about this book. LOVED IT!
Profile Image for Debbie Christiana.
Author 11 books108 followers
June 8, 2013
Broken Road by Elizabeth Yu Gesualdi, is a gripping coming of age tale that revolves around young adults who have their safe, naïve and happy existence thrown upside down when life hits them with adult force. An accident that results in both death and life-changing injuries, young deep seeded love and a plan of revenge thrown in motion by an obsessive, selfish antagonist, that soon spirals out of her control.

The author has gotten into typical eighteen-year-old mind with perfection. The dialogue and the ‘act then think’ behavior of her characters makes this story so realistic. As the story progresses, it takes a darker turn and even has a small splash of the paranormal, which combined with the dynamic plot made this a very enjoyable read.

Ms. Gesualdi has woven a fast moving story brimming with intrigue, deception and suspense that both YA fans and romance lovers of any age will enjoy
Profile Image for Nicole (Desperate for a Good Read).
266 reviews24 followers
September 13, 2013
In all fairness I did win copy of this book in a contest from the author and will be giving my honest review.
This was just okay for me. This story is as others have said, 100% YA. Therefore causing me to not quite feel Jarrod and Angel's deep connection. I think if the story had leaned more toward the new adult I would have liked this one a bit more and definitely felt there connection. There was bit too much character building and content poured into the accident and Jarrod's recovery meaning the entire 1st half of the book. I found myself skipping pages to get further along in the story. Once I did get to the main part of the story it felt rushed. I would have been interesting to have this written in Jarrod's POV and not a narration style.
I think the story was original and definitely suspenseful but having taken over 1/2 of the book to get there was a bit frustrating for me. If you enjoy 100% YA then you will enjoy this book. I needed a little more steam. Happy Reading!

Profile Image for Chris.
54 reviews2 followers
August 26, 2019
This debut novel was a solid and great read. I was particularly impressed by the characters; I felt they were genuine and engaging. Morgan intrigued me the most because I hated her so much, and I really did want to strangle her throughout the book. Jarrod, as well, is a delightfully sweet and honest about his love. I could feel his love permeating through the book. Every character felt distinct, so this definitely wasn’t a one-dimensional, flat read.

I like how we got to see the romance and relationship between Angel and Jarrod grow and develop. It felt natural, real, and had conflicts and problems many couples have.

Overall, this was cute read and I am looking forward to reading more from Elizabeth Yu-Gesualdi! (:
4 reviews1 follower
June 25, 2013
This book is a wonderful, captivating, page turner of a read. I could not wait to find out what was going to happen from one chapter to the next. Yes, the characters are young, but well-versed and mature without being "too mature". Yu-Gesualdi has a great way of getting into the minds of the young adults and showing that not all kids these days are emo and full of angst. They have heart and experience real issues that today's young adults face. I found myself wiping water from my eyes one minute and giggling the next. Such a cleverly written first novel and I can't wait to read more from her!
26 reviews2 followers
July 11, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. After finishing it, I did think the twist in the plot was a bit strange and 'out there' but upon reflection, have come to the conclusion that life is full of plot twists that are a bit strange. I'm glad the author was brave enough to take the story in an interesting and thrilling direction. I'd highly recommend this to anyone but especially those who enjoy romance with a bit of suspense thrown in.
Profile Image for Carissa.
51 reviews8 followers
July 13, 2013
I really enjoyed this book! It's 100% YA & was a nice mix from what I've been reading lately. I must say the villain in the book was a bit out there but it was so nice to read something with a different plot, aside from reading things that seem so similar! I would def recommend this book to anyone who likes YA :)
Profile Image for Katie Chase.
3 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2013
I give this book 10 stars!! Elizabeth really made feel the characters emotions. love love this book i would have finished this book in one day if i didn't have to work hope there are more book from her soon ...IM A FAN !! read this book if u want to to be sucked in to this love and emotional world
Profile Image for Justine Allen.
19 reviews4 followers
May 20, 2013
Loved it! I finished it in about a week (which is extremely quick for a mother of two lol) and every time I put it down all I wanted to do was pick it up again to find out what was going on next. If you are into love/drama/fun/suspense I recommend this book!
Profile Image for Teresa Gerbino.
5 reviews2 followers
April 10, 2013
This book was by far one of the best books I have ever read. Broken Road offers just the right blend of romance, drama and suspense that kept me reading. Hoping this new, aspiring author is working on a sequel because I became so attached to the characters.
Profile Image for Julie Selby.
89 reviews8 followers
May 16, 2013
I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It had heart wrenching moments along with much needed comedic relief. I can't wait to see what this author comes out with next.
Profile Image for Nelder.
52 reviews
July 8, 2021
The story is good fun and something different from the norm.
Profile Image for Tee Loves Books.
939 reviews
September 9, 2013
This was just okay for me, and after seeing a few rave reviews I think I went in with high expectations so I'm a little bummed. What I thought was going to be a heart-wrenching love story was nothing of the sort, as this was more about Jarrod's struggles after the accident and the suspense and drama of a crazy jilted ex-lover's downward spiral. The voice of the story rubbed me the wrong way, too; I don't like being talked at by the narrator and it came across that way here. As a result the characters and emotions were very shallow and fell flat for me, so the deep connections I was supposed to be feeling between Jarrod and Angel just didn't come across at all.

There's entertainment value for those who haven't read some of the much more impressive stories out there, so I'm giving this a 3 star rating despite my disappointment.
Profile Image for Juli.
194 reviews9 followers
December 15, 2014
This book was not my cup of tea. I have many reasons but I won't waste time writing a review when I already feel like I have wasted so much time reading this book. My advice: skip this one.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.