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The Brotherhood: Legacy #2
Billionaire Breakdowns
When a wounded billionaire is forced to rely on a physical therapist with a chip on his shoulder, sparks will fly, but will they be able to resist the passion?
Oakley Manfred has lived a charmed life of wealth, success, and any glittery boyfriend he wants…until a midnight crash leaves him with a spinal cord injury that might never heal. Anger over everything he’s lost nearly consumes him, until gorgeous, cocky physical therapist Will walks into his life and rearranges everything.
After being robbed of everything he’s worked for in his career, the last thing Will Shepherd wanted was to be handed the most difficult patient he’s ever had. And sure enough, he and Oakley clash from the start. But the game changes entirely when Will begins to break through to the grieving man beneath Oakley’s prickly exterior.
The journey of healing is full of twists and turns for both men, but as walls come down and affection begins to bloom, Oakley and Will might just discover that love is the most healing journey of all .
Billionaire Breakdowns is the second book in The Legacy series…which tells modern-day stories of the men of The Brotherhood. It involves two angry men who love to tear each other apart, in more ways than one, unexpected tenderness, triumphs and setbacks, a mountain that can’t be climbed alone, and, of course, the nearly two-hundred-year-old organization known as The Brotherhood. You can read more about the origins and Victorian doings of The Brotherhood in The Origins and The Brotherhood series.
Oakley Manfred has lived a charmed life of wealth, success, and any glittery boyfriend he wants…until a midnight crash leaves him with a spinal cord injury that might never heal. Anger over everything he’s lost nearly consumes him, until gorgeous, cocky physical therapist Will walks into his life and rearranges everything.
After being robbed of everything he’s worked for in his career, the last thing Will Shepherd wanted was to be handed the most difficult patient he’s ever had. And sure enough, he and Oakley clash from the start. But the game changes entirely when Will begins to break through to the grieving man beneath Oakley’s prickly exterior.
The journey of healing is full of twists and turns for both men, but as walls come down and affection begins to bloom, Oakley and Will might just discover that love is the most healing journey of all .
Billionaire Breakdowns is the second book in The Legacy series…which tells modern-day stories of the men of The Brotherhood. It involves two angry men who love to tear each other apart, in more ways than one, unexpected tenderness, triumphs and setbacks, a mountain that can’t be climbed alone, and, of course, the nearly two-hundred-year-old organization known as The Brotherhood. You can read more about the origins and Victorian doings of The Brotherhood in The Origins and The Brotherhood series.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2023
119 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
293 books1,137 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 18, 2023
ok
This was an ok story. I enjoyed it but it took me a while to really feel the connection between the two. Maybe I needed a few sweet moments. It just seemed like they didn’t like each other to now we have feeling and oop we’er in love. There was some kind of disconnection for me with them. I did enjoy the premise of the story. The smexy was yum, and the side characters were nice.
This was an ok story. I enjoyed it but it took me a while to really feel the connection between the two. Maybe I needed a few sweet moments. It just seemed like they didn’t like each other to now we have feeling and oop we’er in love. There was some kind of disconnection for me with them. I did enjoy the premise of the story. The smexy was yum, and the side characters were nice.
October 4, 2023
I loved Will and Oakley’s story but it is much more. Even though it is fiction, I found the effort Farmer put into the medical side of the story to be outstanding. To me, it’s almost like saying there is always hope in the face of disaster. The story is well written and kept my interest all the way to the end. The banter between Will and Oakley ran the gamut of emotions from the lows to the highs and all that between. They say love conquers all but like this story, it does not always come easily. This is a wonderful story that will pull at your heartstrings, all throughout and up until the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2023
Billionaire Breakdowns is Book Two of ‘The Brotherhood: Legacy’ series. It stars Oakley Manfred, an Earl and successful businessman, and Will Shepherd, a physical therapist. This is told in third person from both Oakley and Will’s povs.
I’ve read many books by this author, but none from the ‘Brotherhood’ series. I’ve mostly read the mpreg books under the author’s other pen-name. This book was very different from the humorous mpreg books the author writes. And this was so incredibly good, I didn’t want to put it down. The blurb gives a brief rundown of the plot and I don’t want to give too many details because I think it’s best if a reader submerges themselves into the emotions of this story, because it is chock full of feels.
Oakley is in a horrific car crash that leaves him partially paralyzed. He is terribly bitter and angry and no one can get through to him until Will is assigned as his physical therapist. Will confronts Oakley with Will’s own bad attitude, which shocks Oakley and challenges him enough to start making an effort towards recovery. Will has his own challenge happening at the start of the book. He didn’t get the promotion he’d dreamed about and was angry and bitter when he first met Oakley. These men didn’t start off on a good foot.
The author did a tremendous job of conveying Oakley’s roller coaster ride with his emotions as he goes through recurring times of hope and despair in his mental, emotional, and physical recovery, along with his pride and unwillingness to accept help. Will also has to come to terms with being passed over with the promotion, his growing attraction to Oakley, and how he mustn’t become involved with a patient. There are a lot of conflicts each character must work out for themselves, and together. It doesn’t seem like it at the beginning, but both men are much more alike than it appears.
The climactic scene of the rain and climbing the hill, was a symbol of Oakley and Will’s relationship and how their life could either succeed, or fail. It was terrifically written.
I absolutely loved how the author delved deeply into the facts about accidents, paralysis, and recovery. The author used Will to explain all the facts to Oakley and it worked very well.
One quibble I had was the accident itself. Cars have airbags. How was it possible that Oakley was thrown from the car, even without wearing a seatbelt, if the airbag had deployed? Airbags deploy on collision, it would’ve shoved Oakley back into the seat, or kept him from flying out somehow. That is the one part of the story that doesn’t make sense to me.
Overall, Billionaire Breakdowns is a fantastic story that I didn’t want to put down. Oakley and Will were realistic with great emotional depth. I could believe in them as a couple. I recommend this book to everyone, and give this a well-deserved, 5 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve read many books by this author, but none from the ‘Brotherhood’ series. I’ve mostly read the mpreg books under the author’s other pen-name. This book was very different from the humorous mpreg books the author writes. And this was so incredibly good, I didn’t want to put it down. The blurb gives a brief rundown of the plot and I don’t want to give too many details because I think it’s best if a reader submerges themselves into the emotions of this story, because it is chock full of feels.
Oakley is in a horrific car crash that leaves him partially paralyzed. He is terribly bitter and angry and no one can get through to him until Will is assigned as his physical therapist. Will confronts Oakley with Will’s own bad attitude, which shocks Oakley and challenges him enough to start making an effort towards recovery. Will has his own challenge happening at the start of the book. He didn’t get the promotion he’d dreamed about and was angry and bitter when he first met Oakley. These men didn’t start off on a good foot.
The author did a tremendous job of conveying Oakley’s roller coaster ride with his emotions as he goes through recurring times of hope and despair in his mental, emotional, and physical recovery, along with his pride and unwillingness to accept help. Will also has to come to terms with being passed over with the promotion, his growing attraction to Oakley, and how he mustn’t become involved with a patient. There are a lot of conflicts each character must work out for themselves, and together. It doesn’t seem like it at the beginning, but both men are much more alike than it appears.
The climactic scene of the rain and climbing the hill, was a symbol of Oakley and Will’s relationship and how their life could either succeed, or fail. It was terrifically written.
I absolutely loved how the author delved deeply into the facts about accidents, paralysis, and recovery. The author used Will to explain all the facts to Oakley and it worked very well.
One quibble I had was the accident itself. Cars have airbags. How was it possible that Oakley was thrown from the car, even without wearing a seatbelt, if the airbag had deployed? Airbags deploy on collision, it would’ve shoved Oakley back into the seat, or kept him from flying out somehow. That is the one part of the story that doesn’t make sense to me.
Overall, Billionaire Breakdowns is a fantastic story that I didn’t want to put down. Oakley and Will were realistic with great emotional depth. I could believe in them as a couple. I recommend this book to everyone, and give this a well-deserved, 5 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2023
Billionaire Breakdowns is the second book in The Brotherhood: Legacy series. This book can be read as a standalone but I love reading the stories in order including the ones from The Brotherhood: Origins and The Brotherhood series set in the Victorian era. This is Oakley a billionaire who is hurt in an accident and Will the physical therapist who is assigned to help him's story. I love stories about hurt/comfort and this is definitely one of the best. I enjoyed how much Merry Farmer put into the realistic medical part of the story. I love how we are shown that even in the face of disaster there is hope and love. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
October 10, 2023
Absolutely fantastic book I listened to this book via epub for sight impaired people.
Oakley and Will story is. Excellent value.
They have a fantastic start as they finally got together, Will made very good progress with a grumpy billionaire.
After Oakley had a car accident , he was paralysed from the waist down.
It's very easy to read, an amazing job done by Merry Farmer.
Oakley and Will story is. Excellent value.
They have a fantastic start as they finally got together, Will made very good progress with a grumpy billionaire.
After Oakley had a car accident , he was paralysed from the waist down.
It's very easy to read, an amazing job done by Merry Farmer.
October 13, 2023
Grumpy/Sunshine
I enjoyed this book even more than book one of this series. Even though Oakley and Will find each other due to a horrible accident, their story out to be quite beautiful. I even got a little teary eyed near the end but it was worth it.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I enjoyed this book even more than book one of this series. Even though Oakley and Will find each other due to a horrible accident, their story out to be quite beautiful. I even got a little teary eyed near the end but it was worth it.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
October 17, 2023
Oakley & Will
Rating: 4.4 ⭐
- Billionaire/Physical Therapist
- Hurt/Comfort
- Disabilities
- MM Romance
All the sass, the snark, tears, healing and loving is in this book. This is the second book in this part of the series and I honestly liked it better than the first. You can read this as a standalone but you may enjoy it more after reading the first book “Nanny Negotiations”, where you meet Oakley’s brother, Heath.
Oakley is living his best life and has everything going for him, except he’s starting to feel like something is missing especially when he sees his brothers new found happiness and love with Aubrey. When leaving the New Years party at the club, Oakley ends up in a freak accident that changes his life forever. Being told that you will never walk again and may only regain some feeling in those areas, will always be life altering. You can tell that the author did some extensive research for this book in order to understand how spinal cord injuries affect the body and which nerves create certain responses. Oakley was already a grumpy pain in the butt, but after the accident his sour moodiness skyrocketed. Then in walks Will on a day where he got his own form of bad news. These two instantly go head-to-head with a verbal assault, but it’s exactly what Oakley needed to snap out of his despair.
Will has wanted to be a physical therapist since childhood, when his brother was in an accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury and bound him to a wheelchair. Will loves his patients and works so well with them individually. He also has a goal to achieve a managerial role within the hospital he’s been working at for a while. On a day where he thought he was getting the news of a promotion he was actually denied because they didn’t want to lose how well he works with the patients and put him behind a desk. Many of us have heard that before on why we didn’t get a promotion, we are just too good at our current jobs, yep. To top it off, the man who got the job over him asks him to do a favor for The Brotherhood. When he walks into Oakley’s room to start their treatments and Oakley starts to verbally attack him, Will has had enough of that day and lashes right back at him. They end up making a plan for Oakley to move his care to his home instead of in the hospital where Will continues to treat him.
Overtime these two grow close and share vulnerabilities with each other. There were times when they each suffered in silence instead of talking it out with each other that made me want to shake them a bit to gain some sense. They are great together though and exactly what the other person needed in order to gain a new sense of self and purpose. The couple and the individuals go through the wringer of emotions in this book. It makes you want to hug them, scream and cry with them until everyone is empty and ready to try again. Oakley will always have his moments of depression due to his new situation but he will have Will there to help him come back into the light and push him to be a better man and partner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
Rating: 4.4 ⭐
- Billionaire/Physical Therapist
- Hurt/Comfort
- Disabilities
- MM Romance
All the sass, the snark, tears, healing and loving is in this book. This is the second book in this part of the series and I honestly liked it better than the first. You can read this as a standalone but you may enjoy it more after reading the first book “Nanny Negotiations”, where you meet Oakley’s brother, Heath.
Oakley is living his best life and has everything going for him, except he’s starting to feel like something is missing especially when he sees his brothers new found happiness and love with Aubrey. When leaving the New Years party at the club, Oakley ends up in a freak accident that changes his life forever. Being told that you will never walk again and may only regain some feeling in those areas, will always be life altering. You can tell that the author did some extensive research for this book in order to understand how spinal cord injuries affect the body and which nerves create certain responses. Oakley was already a grumpy pain in the butt, but after the accident his sour moodiness skyrocketed. Then in walks Will on a day where he got his own form of bad news. These two instantly go head-to-head with a verbal assault, but it’s exactly what Oakley needed to snap out of his despair.
Will has wanted to be a physical therapist since childhood, when his brother was in an accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury and bound him to a wheelchair. Will loves his patients and works so well with them individually. He also has a goal to achieve a managerial role within the hospital he’s been working at for a while. On a day where he thought he was getting the news of a promotion he was actually denied because they didn’t want to lose how well he works with the patients and put him behind a desk. Many of us have heard that before on why we didn’t get a promotion, we are just too good at our current jobs, yep. To top it off, the man who got the job over him asks him to do a favor for The Brotherhood. When he walks into Oakley’s room to start their treatments and Oakley starts to verbally attack him, Will has had enough of that day and lashes right back at him. They end up making a plan for Oakley to move his care to his home instead of in the hospital where Will continues to treat him.
Overtime these two grow close and share vulnerabilities with each other. There were times when they each suffered in silence instead of talking it out with each other that made me want to shake them a bit to gain some sense. They are great together though and exactly what the other person needed in order to gain a new sense of self and purpose. The couple and the individuals go through the wringer of emotions in this book. It makes you want to hug them, scream and cry with them until everyone is empty and ready to try again. Oakley will always have his moments of depression due to his new situation but he will have Will there to help him come back into the light and push him to be a better man and partner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
October 23, 2023
“Billionaire Breakdowns” is book 2 in Merry Farmer’s series The Brotherhood: Legacy. The first main character is Oakley Manfred, billionaire developer with the world at his feet and gorgeous young boyfriends on his arm. After leaving a New Year’s Eve party at the Chameleon Club, Oakley is involved in a life altering auto accident leaving him with severe spinal cord injury. He is bitter, disagreeable, depressed, and angry at the entire world. The second main character is Will Shepherd, physical therapist specializing in spinal cord injuries. Just after learning he was passed over for a sought after promotion in the physical therapy department, these two collide when Will takes on Oakley’s physical therapy. Will’s abrupt and edgy manner chisel a crack in the tightly bound wall Oakley has erected. Thus, their journey begins. “Billionaire Breakdowns” is an excellent addition to the Brotherhood universe. The story is realistic and emotional. Oakley has to adjust to his new reality and his burgeoning feelings for Will while Will has to treat Oakley while carefully navigating Oakley’s emotional minefield. Will is also dealing with his own attraction and feelings for Oakley. These two characters were very well written. The back and forth banter and inner struggles made for a strong story. These two men from different worlds made a great couple and a great team. Their romance and happy ever after was difficult and hard won. It was good to see characters from book one in this series as Oakley and Heath Manfred are brothers. The important Chameleon Club was wisely included. I was also surprised to revisit Swanmore Glen, ancestral home of George, rake and marquess (aka Lord Wilmore) prominent in The Brotherhood: Origins series. Merry Farmer did an incredible job researching spinal cord injuries to be as authentic as possible concerning Oakley, his injuries, his treatment, and his long term outlook. This is an m/m quite steamy romance. I definitely recommend this story. Have a box of Kleenex on hand. Well done Merry Farmer, as always, I look forward to the next installment of The Brotherhood series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2023
I think this is an important book from the standpoint of dealing with a paraplegic main character, not something you normally see in romance novels, MM or MF. It is also a really good book, with the growth of love between Will and Oakley amid the trauma and recovery of a life-changing injury, and the way the victim and those around him cope with the physical, mental, and emotional issues both went through. It is not only the victims that suffer from the trauma, but friends, family, and caregivers do,too.
Will is the perfect person for Oakley at this stage of his life — helpful, no-nonsense, firm, encouraging but realistic, empathetic, intuitive, funny, loving, and caring. He knows enough when to back off and let Oakley process his new reality, breakdown or be depressed if needed, but always having his back, encouraging and cajoling but a slave driver as needed. With the physical attraction and the hours together working on therapy, plus the physical, hands on work, it wasn’t surprising they got involved.
Oakley had someone he needed to help him face his new reality, not the hovering from his brother, but the matter of fact, tell it like it is demeanor he got from Will. Will would let him be down, but not wallow in his fears, pain, regrets and anger, able to read Oakley and give him back what was needed to move forward.
I am very glad this book was written, as it portrays those facing spinal cord injuries not as those to be pitied, but as people that still have their hopes and dreams with the possibility of achieving the dreams and having a fulfilling life, including the chance for the physical parts of intimacy, depending on the location of the injury. Valuable information about a condition as well as an inspirational love story. Well done, Merry Farmer. Looking forward to Jameson’s book next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Will is the perfect person for Oakley at this stage of his life — helpful, no-nonsense, firm, encouraging but realistic, empathetic, intuitive, funny, loving, and caring. He knows enough when to back off and let Oakley process his new reality, breakdown or be depressed if needed, but always having his back, encouraging and cajoling but a slave driver as needed. With the physical attraction and the hours together working on therapy, plus the physical, hands on work, it wasn’t surprising they got involved.
Oakley had someone he needed to help him face his new reality, not the hovering from his brother, but the matter of fact, tell it like it is demeanor he got from Will. Will would let him be down, but not wallow in his fears, pain, regrets and anger, able to read Oakley and give him back what was needed to move forward.
I am very glad this book was written, as it portrays those facing spinal cord injuries not as those to be pitied, but as people that still have their hopes and dreams with the possibility of achieving the dreams and having a fulfilling life, including the chance for the physical parts of intimacy, depending on the location of the injury. Valuable information about a condition as well as an inspirational love story. Well done, Merry Farmer. Looking forward to Jameson’s book next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2023
Finding Hope in Despair . . .
Oakley Manfred was celebrating the New Year with his Brotherhood friends. His boyfriend, Ellis, was hovering closely to claim his midnight kiss. A successful billionaire, Oakley was starting to feel old, as if he had done everything and there was nothing new. He had all the money and power he could wish for, multiple homes, a full garage of cars, a private jet, a yacht, but he didn’t have someone to actually love like his brother did. Ellis’ flirting wasn’t what he needed anymore. He was missing something more important. So he decided to break up with Ellis on the drive home, then go for a hiking weekend in the mountains. Having seen how much champagne Oakley had been drinking, Ellis snatched the keys from the valet. Oakley fussed with his seatbelt, but couldn’t figure it out and just dropped it in his lap.
They were speeding toward home, and Oakley started talking about their relationship. Ellis had already figured out things were fizzling out. Then the car was spinning and flipping over. Not belted in, Oakley flew out. He was covered in glass and hit his head and back on something causing him great pain until he passed out. He woke to the sound of sirens and heard Ellis telling someone that Oakley had gone through the windshield after they hit a patch of ice. He heard his brother but could not turn his head toward him.
With a spinal cord injury that might never heal, Oakley will be working with physical therapist Will Shepherd. Will didn’t particularly want this difficult patient and they clashed constantly. Can Will somehow connect with the devastated Oakley to help him heal? Their relationship begins to change. Can love be what actually gets through to him? Because Will is suffering too and refuses to let Oakley give up no matter what it costs him; and realizing what he means to Will, this might be what truly does give him hope.
Oakley Manfred was celebrating the New Year with his Brotherhood friends. His boyfriend, Ellis, was hovering closely to claim his midnight kiss. A successful billionaire, Oakley was starting to feel old, as if he had done everything and there was nothing new. He had all the money and power he could wish for, multiple homes, a full garage of cars, a private jet, a yacht, but he didn’t have someone to actually love like his brother did. Ellis’ flirting wasn’t what he needed anymore. He was missing something more important. So he decided to break up with Ellis on the drive home, then go for a hiking weekend in the mountains. Having seen how much champagne Oakley had been drinking, Ellis snatched the keys from the valet. Oakley fussed with his seatbelt, but couldn’t figure it out and just dropped it in his lap.
They were speeding toward home, and Oakley started talking about their relationship. Ellis had already figured out things were fizzling out. Then the car was spinning and flipping over. Not belted in, Oakley flew out. He was covered in glass and hit his head and back on something causing him great pain until he passed out. He woke to the sound of sirens and heard Ellis telling someone that Oakley had gone through the windshield after they hit a patch of ice. He heard his brother but could not turn his head toward him.
With a spinal cord injury that might never heal, Oakley will be working with physical therapist Will Shepherd. Will didn’t particularly want this difficult patient and they clashed constantly. Can Will somehow connect with the devastated Oakley to help him heal? Their relationship begins to change. Can love be what actually gets through to him? Because Will is suffering too and refuses to let Oakley give up no matter what it costs him; and realizing what he means to Will, this might be what truly does give him hope.
December 10, 2025
Oakley Manfred, a billionaire accustomed to wealth and glamour, sees his charmed life shatter after a devastating crash leaves him with a spinal cord injury. Consumed by anger and grief over all he’s lost, he clashes with Will Shepherd, the cocky physical therapist assigned to his case. Will, still reeling from the collapse of his own career, resents being handed Oakley as a patient. Yet as their sessions unfold, Will begins to see past Oakley’s prickly defenses to the vulnerable man beneath. Slowly, sparks of attraction ignite amid the tension, and their professional relationship transforms into something deeper. Through setbacks, breakthroughs, and growing affection, Oakley and Will discover that healing isn’t just physical — it’s emotional. Together, they learn that love may be the most powerful cure of all.
This was an emotional story about two wounded men finding strength, hope, and passion in each other — turning pain into the possibility of love. Oakley was once defined by wealth, glamour, and freedom, his spinal injury striped away the identity he built around charm and success. His journey with Will forced him to confront who he is without the glitter, opening space for a more authentic self. The story asked whether identity is rooted in external success or in the capacity to love and endure. At its heart, this story is about two men whose brokenness mirrors each other’s, discovering that healing is not just about recovery, but about love reshaping identity, purpose, and hope. There were a lot of emotions and feelings in this story which were easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
This was an emotional story about two wounded men finding strength, hope, and passion in each other — turning pain into the possibility of love. Oakley was once defined by wealth, glamour, and freedom, his spinal injury striped away the identity he built around charm and success. His journey with Will forced him to confront who he is without the glitter, opening space for a more authentic self. The story asked whether identity is rooted in external success or in the capacity to love and endure. At its heart, this story is about two men whose brokenness mirrors each other’s, discovering that healing is not just about recovery, but about love reshaping identity, purpose, and hope. There were a lot of emotions and feelings in this story which were easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
October 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this book because it is really well-researched and seems to authentically incorporate issues and emotions that will likely arise following a spinal cord injury. Oakley is an alpha-type of billionaire who is used to being in charge and commanding any room. He's vaguely unhappy with his series of superficial relationships, but doesn't know how to find the right partner. In one night, a car accident makes him a paraplegic and his entire life changes.
Will is a skilled physical therapist and also a member of The Brotherhood. When his boss asks him to take over as the lead in providing Oakley's care, he's in the middle of a very bad day, having been passed over for a much-desired promotion. At the first meeting, Oakley is acting belligerent and Will is in no mood to put up with it. As they lock verbal horns, it turns out that it is just what Oakley needs to snap out of his self-pity and take some action to prepare for his return to his home. He asks Will to serve as his home therapist when Will is not at his job.
Will agrees and they begin to work together. It becomes increasingly apparent that there is a mutual attraction. Still, questions remain about what is possible for a relationship, physically and emotionally. Oakley's recovery is non-linear, but he fortunately has had a somewhat less severe injury that might allow for the return of some sensations. Can these two find their way to love around so many challenges and hurdles? This book has a genuine, deep love that will not give up. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Will is a skilled physical therapist and also a member of The Brotherhood. When his boss asks him to take over as the lead in providing Oakley's care, he's in the middle of a very bad day, having been passed over for a much-desired promotion. At the first meeting, Oakley is acting belligerent and Will is in no mood to put up with it. As they lock verbal horns, it turns out that it is just what Oakley needs to snap out of his self-pity and take some action to prepare for his return to his home. He asks Will to serve as his home therapist when Will is not at his job.
Will agrees and they begin to work together. It becomes increasingly apparent that there is a mutual attraction. Still, questions remain about what is possible for a relationship, physically and emotionally. Oakley's recovery is non-linear, but he fortunately has had a somewhat less severe injury that might allow for the return of some sensations. Can these two find their way to love around so many challenges and hurdles? This book has a genuine, deep love that will not give up. I look forward to the next book in the series.
October 23, 2023
Oakley is a rather relatable guy for a billionaire. He gets drunk on new year’s eve and makes a stupid mistake that any of us could make and he ends up with a spinal cord injury. It’s where Merry Farmer takes him from there that makes this an intense and marvelous story. Will barrels into Oakley’s life as his latest physical therapist and Oakley finds that he can’t drive this one off the same way he did the others. There are a few other characters in the periphery but it’s mostly just the two men who go through a physical, mental and emotional journey together.
Ms. Farmer states in her afterword that she did more research for this book than she has done for any of her other books and it shows. Not only has she looked at the physical effects of an injury like Oakley’s but the psychological effects are front and center. She does not stint on details either. While this sounds like it might be a downer to read about, Ms. Farmer writes so well that you care about these characters and you want to cheer them on through all the ups and downs of life. I have disabilities myself and have friends who have had spinal cord problems and it’s marvelous to read about characters with disabilities in a romance. Yes, we fall in love and have relationships too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ms. Farmer states in her afterword that she did more research for this book than she has done for any of her other books and it shows. Not only has she looked at the physical effects of an injury like Oakley’s but the psychological effects are front and center. She does not stint on details either. While this sounds like it might be a downer to read about, Ms. Farmer writes so well that you care about these characters and you want to cheer them on through all the ups and downs of life. I have disabilities myself and have friends who have had spinal cord problems and it’s marvelous to read about characters with disabilities in a romance. Yes, we fall in love and have relationships too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2023
Oakley just made me feel everything with him
This was so much better than the first book. Merry said she did more research for this story than any other and I can believe it. She imparted the medical terms and knowledge in a way that it was easy to understand Oakley's condition, what he was facing and what he could expect. His progress was believable and she never sugar-coated his life-altering injury or his mental state throughout. She also handled the intimacy between Oakley and Will very sensitively and very beautifully.
I felt all the ups and downs with Oakley, the days when he was optimistic or had a tiny breakthrough, and the days when he couldn't reconcile his life now or couldn't motivate himself to do anything.
For a physical therapist, Will certainly had a novel bedside manner, as he burst into Oakley's hospital room and basically let rip. Throughout the book, he wasn't shy of telling Oakley a lot of home truths and certainly didn't wrap him in cotton wool. He turned out to be exactly what Oakley needed.
I loved the last few chapters, when every emotion under the sun (and rain!) coursed through both men, ending in an incredibly satisfying HEA.
I'm intrigued about Jamie's story and I'm glad it's not too long a wait.
This was so much better than the first book. Merry said she did more research for this story than any other and I can believe it. She imparted the medical terms and knowledge in a way that it was easy to understand Oakley's condition, what he was facing and what he could expect. His progress was believable and she never sugar-coated his life-altering injury or his mental state throughout. She also handled the intimacy between Oakley and Will very sensitively and very beautifully.
I felt all the ups and downs with Oakley, the days when he was optimistic or had a tiny breakthrough, and the days when he couldn't reconcile his life now or couldn't motivate himself to do anything.
For a physical therapist, Will certainly had a novel bedside manner, as he burst into Oakley's hospital room and basically let rip. Throughout the book, he wasn't shy of telling Oakley a lot of home truths and certainly didn't wrap him in cotton wool. He turned out to be exactly what Oakley needed.
I loved the last few chapters, when every emotion under the sun (and rain!) coursed through both men, ending in an incredibly satisfying HEA.
I'm intrigued about Jamie's story and I'm glad it's not too long a wait.
October 12, 2023
Oakley Manfred has lived a charmed life of wealth, success, and any glittery boyfriend he wants until a car crash on New Years Eve leaves him with a spinal cord injury that might never heal. Anger over everything he’s lost nearly consumes him, until physical therapist Will walks into his life and rearranges everything. After missing out on the promotion he’s worked all his career for, the last thing Will Shepherd wanted was to be handed the most difficult patient he’s ever had. And sure enough, he and Oakley clash from the start.
The second book in the series & it can easily be read on its own even though Oakley is Heath’s (from book one) brother. A very well researched book, which really pulled at my heartstrings. I loved both Oakley & Will sparks fly from their first meeting, I loved how Will doesn't hold his punches with Oakley, it's exactly what Oakley needs. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn’t easy but made for a riveting read, which I read in a sitting
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second book in the series & it can easily be read on its own even though Oakley is Heath’s (from book one) brother. A very well researched book, which really pulled at my heartstrings. I loved both Oakley & Will sparks fly from their first meeting, I loved how Will doesn't hold his punches with Oakley, it's exactly what Oakley needs. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn’t easy but made for a riveting read, which I read in a sitting
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 15, 2023
Billionaire Breakdowns by Merry Farmer is my favorite book in any of the Brotherhood series!
I think this is one of the most emotionally expressive books I’ve read by any author. Oakley and Will’s emotions are laid bare, and Farmer brings her reader along on their journey. As someone who has experienced needing assistance with activities of daily living, I related to Oakley’s experience. This may trigger some readers, but it enhanced the story for me.
This book follows in the best traditions of The Brotherhood throughout its generations. Men helping each other regardless of class and falling in love even if they tried to fight it.
Heath and Aubrey’s wedding was the cherry on top. I am a big fan of following prior couples in a series in the subsequent books in the series. I’m looking forward to Jamison’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I think this is one of the most emotionally expressive books I’ve read by any author. Oakley and Will’s emotions are laid bare, and Farmer brings her reader along on their journey. As someone who has experienced needing assistance with activities of daily living, I related to Oakley’s experience. This may trigger some readers, but it enhanced the story for me.
This book follows in the best traditions of The Brotherhood throughout its generations. Men helping each other regardless of class and falling in love even if they tried to fight it.
Heath and Aubrey’s wedding was the cherry on top. I am a big fan of following prior couples in a series in the subsequent books in the series. I’m looking forward to Jamison’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 16, 2023
Emotional but not too serious, great easy read!
I enjoy the stories and characters that this author develops and this book is no exception. I’ve read all her historical romances and a few of her contemporaries as well and she creates well rounded characters that you have empathy for. There is an author’s note at the end detailing the research she did for this book and that the timeline was shortened to fulfill the story. I read this book to enjoy the story and journey the characters went on so I took the healing side of Oakley at face value from what the author wrote. This book was heartfelt and emotional but also filled with steam and some laughs to make it not too serious. I liked how the MC were both stubborn and strong males. It was enjoyable to read their argumentative banter with those types of personalities. Can’t wait to see what is store for Jamison in book 3.
I enjoy the stories and characters that this author develops and this book is no exception. I’ve read all her historical romances and a few of her contemporaries as well and she creates well rounded characters that you have empathy for. There is an author’s note at the end detailing the research she did for this book and that the timeline was shortened to fulfill the story. I read this book to enjoy the story and journey the characters went on so I took the healing side of Oakley at face value from what the author wrote. This book was heartfelt and emotional but also filled with steam and some laughs to make it not too serious. I liked how the MC were both stubborn and strong males. It was enjoyable to read their argumentative banter with those types of personalities. Can’t wait to see what is store for Jamison in book 3.
October 10, 2023
The second installment of the modern Brotherhood series covers quite a difficult theme, Oakley being paralysed from the waist down and needing to learn a new reality.
I really like how the author wrote this book. She writes it refreshingly real with no sugarcoating and emphasis the need to learn to accept a life while allowing time for grief and denial.
Especially the scene at Oakley's country house was so well written, you feel you are next to them.
I struggled with the start of Will and Oakley's physical relationship, while I think the attraction was there, it felt a bit inappropriate as they were still therapist/patient. And while it developed into a well written relationship it caused the star deduction.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really like how the author wrote this book. She writes it refreshingly real with no sugarcoating and emphasis the need to learn to accept a life while allowing time for grief and denial.
Especially the scene at Oakley's country house was so well written, you feel you are next to them.
I struggled with the start of Will and Oakley's physical relationship, while I think the attraction was there, it felt a bit inappropriate as they were still therapist/patient. And while it developed into a well written relationship it caused the star deduction.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2023
I put everything aside so I could read this book! Just like the previous one, it held my attention right from the start and I could NOT put it down. Merry Farmer definitely knows how to write engaging stories. I love these characters! The painful journey to recovery / acceptance from Oakley and the strong personality of Will (much needed, because he had to put up with Oakley’s temper at times), I could feel it all.
I LOVED the scene on the hill, despite (or because of) the circumstances. I was moved to tears.
The epilogue made me smile.
If you love or want to try a MM romance: this is a recommended read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I LOVED the scene on the hill, despite (or because of) the circumstances. I was moved to tears.
The epilogue made me smile.
If you love or want to try a MM romance: this is a recommended read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2023
The author did an amazing job writing in such a way that readers can really feel the intense emotions pouring off the pages - the frustration, anger, defiance, attraction, hope, etc.. and did well maneuvering through the roller coaster of mental and emotional issues that arise.
Oakley and Will are unique, fully developed characters whose story will capture your attention. Their journey has many bumps and twists, but throughout it all, there is always a sense of something more between them. They clash and connect on many levels, but by the end, they are deeply in love, have a satisfying HEA, and a bright future ahead of them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oakley and Will are unique, fully developed characters whose story will capture your attention. Their journey has many bumps and twists, but throughout it all, there is always a sense of something more between them. They clash and connect on many levels, but by the end, they are deeply in love, have a satisfying HEA, and a bright future ahead of them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2023
Excellent window into complacency, tragedy and recovery. Oakley, was living the dream. He had everything, money, looks, career success and access to a lover at his fingertips. Then it all ended when he crashed resulting in a spinal cord injury. Grief and anger fills his life now. He is cloaked in a bubble of impossibilities. Enter Will, a physical therapist who is in shock of being robbed of everything he worked for. Both men are suffering the hugest losses in their lives and are at their lowest points of their lives. Can Will help Oakley? Their journey is not easy or smooth. They have to overcome the first obstacle of trusting each other to get started. Fantastic story, delicately and respectfully handled. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2023
“Thank you,” he whispered as soon as his throat loosened up enough to allow him speech. “For being here, for staying, for putting up with me. Thank you for everything.”
I've really enjoyed this author's work, and I liked the first book in this series. So I was looking forward to picking this one up. I liked both Will and Oakley. This story was definitely a journey filled with healing, determination, and love. My heart really hurt for what Oakley suffered with that kind of debilitating injury. Will was the perfect match for him, not only for his role as a physical therapist, but for the way they connect and break through walls of defense. I couldn't get enough of them. They were very realistic characters. And a beautiful ending. 5 stars.
I've really enjoyed this author's work, and I liked the first book in this series. So I was looking forward to picking this one up. I liked both Will and Oakley. This story was definitely a journey filled with healing, determination, and love. My heart really hurt for what Oakley suffered with that kind of debilitating injury. Will was the perfect match for him, not only for his role as a physical therapist, but for the way they connect and break through walls of defense. I couldn't get enough of them. They were very realistic characters. And a beautiful ending. 5 stars.
February 16, 2024
A lovely book.
I've read a few physical-therapist-trope books before, but they tend to be surface level and not too deep or serious. This book, however, doesn't shy away from the reality of what's happened to Oakley. It's sad and raw. Merry really takes you on the emotional rollercoaster that Oakley and Will are on. But even though there's heartache, there's also so much love, compassion, and passion between Will and Oakley. They love each other and never give up on the other, even when it's hard and painful.
I've read this author's work before, and have enjoyed it, but I can't recall the last time a book got me so emotional without relying on high relationship against or a third-act breakup. I have no doubt Oakley and Will's story will stay with me for a long time.
I've read a few physical-therapist-trope books before, but they tend to be surface level and not too deep or serious. This book, however, doesn't shy away from the reality of what's happened to Oakley. It's sad and raw. Merry really takes you on the emotional rollercoaster that Oakley and Will are on. But even though there's heartache, there's also so much love, compassion, and passion between Will and Oakley. They love each other and never give up on the other, even when it's hard and painful.
I've read this author's work before, and have enjoyed it, but I can't recall the last time a book got me so emotional without relying on high relationship against or a third-act breakup. I have no doubt Oakley and Will's story will stay with me for a long time.
October 3, 2023
After Oakley was in a car accident causing him to lose mobility from his waist down, the hospital assigned him Will to help with his physical therapy. With a brother that is wheelchair bound, Will knew he wanted to be a physical therapist but Oakley can be challenging with his grumpiness. This was the right balance of Oakley going through the motions of his traumatic experience while also growing as a person without fake positivity. Will provides the empathy and right amount of support to show Oakley that he is enough to be loved.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2023
Absolutely Remarkable!
Not only is this a remarkable romance – it is a really informative story about spinal injuries and I learned so much.
Oakley and Will meet under such tragic circumstances and I really loved how they grabbed each and every opportunity to improve their lives even though at times there were doubts.
This story is filled with the angst of love, about trust and caring, the achievement of unselfish goals and improvements and above all finding a true partner and falling in love.
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) supplied by Booksprout and am happy to leave my voluntary review.
Not only is this a remarkable romance – it is a really informative story about spinal injuries and I learned so much.
Oakley and Will meet under such tragic circumstances and I really loved how they grabbed each and every opportunity to improve their lives even though at times there were doubts.
This story is filled with the angst of love, about trust and caring, the achievement of unselfish goals and improvements and above all finding a true partner and falling in love.
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) supplied by Booksprout and am happy to leave my voluntary review.
October 15, 2023
Determined Desire
A beautiful story of love mixed with grief and the rollercoaster of emotion that goes with that grief. A reminder that the steamy part of our romantic relationships is not determined by how hard, or how often you reach the pinnacle, but of the intensity of the feeling driving it. That to SHOW your love can declare it louder than saying the words, making the confession unneeded, even if still very much wanted. I loved this book; it is a powerful love story with a well-earned HEA. ---–6 STARS!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A beautiful story of love mixed with grief and the rollercoaster of emotion that goes with that grief. A reminder that the steamy part of our romantic relationships is not determined by how hard, or how often you reach the pinnacle, but of the intensity of the feeling driving it. That to SHOW your love can declare it louder than saying the words, making the confession unneeded, even if still very much wanted. I loved this book; it is a powerful love story with a well-earned HEA. ---–6 STARS!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2023
This is book two in the series and is another great addition to it, this is billionaire Oakley and PT Will’s story, they meet after Oakley is in a car accident and is paralysed from the waist down, this is a very good emotional but with some banter, grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort story the author covers the medical condition and details extremely well, which helps us readers really understand the feelings, struggles and emotions of the characters, it was great watching their feelings and relationship develop and it was good to read about Heath and Aubrey’s wedding from the first book of series, great read. Looking forward to next book in the series.
October 28, 2023
This is a very well thought out book about a billionaire who suffers a terrible accident and ends up paralyzed from the waist down. Oakley is angry at himself and the changes his life has taken. Will is the physical therapist assigned to him. Will is talented with people and helping them adjust to their disabilities. Oakley and Will clash at first, but both soon realize there's something special between them both.
This isn't your usual HEA. Oakley doesn't walk off into the sunset holding Will's hand. This is a lovely book written with sensitivity and love. I really enjoyed reading it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This isn't your usual HEA. Oakley doesn't walk off into the sunset holding Will's hand. This is a lovely book written with sensitivity and love. I really enjoyed reading it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2023
It is not the end of the world
In a moment of distraction due to his drunkenness, Oakley neglects to fasten his seatbelt and he ends in a hospital bed with multiple injuries which leave him paralyzed from the waist down. Drowning in self-pity, he gets a rude awakening when his physical therapist takes over his treatment and manages to make him realize that, even if his life as he knew it ended, it does not mean that he cannot lead a meaningful live and even fall in love.
This is a beautifully written sensitive book about the struggle for the future against difficult odds.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In a moment of distraction due to his drunkenness, Oakley neglects to fasten his seatbelt and he ends in a hospital bed with multiple injuries which leave him paralyzed from the waist down. Drowning in self-pity, he gets a rude awakening when his physical therapist takes over his treatment and manages to make him realize that, even if his life as he knew it ended, it does not mean that he cannot lead a meaningful live and even fall in love.
This is a beautifully written sensitive book about the struggle for the future against difficult odds.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2023
I absolutely loved Billionaire's Breakdown. It was emotional, snarky, sweet and thoughtfully written. I thought the author took a lot of care in creating a character whose world is turned upside down by an accident and the slow and painful recovery...
I love that this book has opposites attract, overcoming adversity, professional/patient, overly supportive family and the right balance of snarky and sweet. You can definitely tell that the author put a lot of research and careful thought into how elements of this story would present realistically.
I love that this book has opposites attract, overcoming adversity, professional/patient, overly supportive family and the right balance of snarky and sweet. You can definitely tell that the author put a lot of research and careful thought into how elements of this story would present realistically.
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