Broken Heart

The Hearts of Sawyers Bend #7

by Ivy Layne

Sterling

Forrest Powell is a liar.

For the first time in my life, I trusted a man, and in return, he broke my heart.

He lied about everything. Who he was. Why we met.

I dumped him, but he didn’t leave. He gave me space, but he was there. Hanging around town, working for the family business. Waiting for me to forgive him.

Not going to happen. We were over. I was never speaking to Forrest Powell again.

Except for one thing. The treasure hunt. Forrest’s father left behind a fortune hidden beneath layers of codes and clues.

Not a single person on the planet had been able to break his codes. Until me.

The problem? I can’t go after the money without Forrest.

And I'm not sure if a fortune is worth risking my heart again.

Broken Heart is a standalone romance with a happy ending. It’s seventh in The Hearts of Sawyers Bend series, featuring the Sawyer family of Sawyers Bend.

Genres: Suspense, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Enemies To Lovers

311 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 19, 2024

About the author

Ivy Layne has had her nose stuck in a book since she first learned to decipher the English language. Sometime in her early teens, she stumbled across her first Romance, and the die was cast. Though she pretended to pay attention to her creative writing professors, she dreamed of writing steamy romance instead of literary fiction. These days, she’s neck deep in alpha heroes and the smart, sexy women who love them.

Married to her very own alpha hero (who rubs her back after a long day of typing, but also leaves his socks on the floor). Ivy lives in the mountains of North Carolina where she and her other half are having a blast raising two energetic little boys. Aside from her family, Ivy’s greatest loves are coffee and chocolate, preferably together.

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Reviews

[Sierra Brewer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was good! Definitely not my favorite of this series but I’m glad he got the redemption arc

[Jamie Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been reading this series as each one comes out. I love how Sterling has her own redemption. I honestly didn’t think the nemesis would be who it was because it seemed to obvious, but in the end, I’m glad I was wrong because I didn’t like the other options. Looking forward to Avery’s story.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

We finally get to Sterling and Forrest. I wasn’t too happy with Forrest when he lied and broke Sterling’s heart. I can understand her being angry with him and even not wanting anything to do with him. But these two are such a great pair. That stupid statue comes back into play. Sterling believes she can solve this mystery and find the money that Forrest’s father may have hidden. This is a great chase. It almost felt like “National Treasure or the DaVinci Code.” All the deciphering and hidden clues. Sterling has grown and she is definitely a smart woman. Griffin and Hawk see it. We also have the Irish mob following close behind. I do love that Forrest stay around. He loves Sterling so much. He feels so guilty for hurting her. He just wants to win back Sterling’s trust and love. Let’s face it, these two never fell out of love. It was more time had to heal wounds first then the forgiving could happen. And we get to hang with the Sinclair’s again. I love them.

I don’t know what is up with Ford. I know he just was released but, I am hoping he starts functioning. He seems more closed off then ever. Brax is a PIA. We learn about why he and Sterling are always at odds. More things get uncovered about Brax. The story is exciting and a fun adventure. When we get to the end of the adventure, make sure you have a tissue. It pulls at the heart. The climax at the end was unexpected. I thought there would be more. I am glad that Sterling and Forrest are back together again. I wanted to read that the most. We need to find someone for Ford. We still have to find the murderer of Prentice Sawyer. Whoever it is, is still out there.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Yvonne S · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was looking forward to Forrest and Sterling's book ... Unfortunately, it was a letdown.

The writing was still good, the storytelling the same, but Forrest and Sterling's story was boring. The pace was too slow and - similar to Royal and Nash in their books - Forrest was relegated to a supporting role in his own love story. Eighty percent of the focus was on Sterling, and she wasn't that interesting.

Sterling's victim and poor-me mentality was offputting. Yes, Forrest lied about who he was when they met, but for heaven's sake, the man had a good reason to do so. Sterling "hating" him and refusing to forgive him for more than a year was just childish and immature.

Forrest sounded like a good guy, and he stuck around in spite of being hated and ignored. However - and I suspect this is due to the imbalance of power in the relationship - he was too passive in his quest to win Sterling's trust and love. In fact, he was so passive that he did absolutely nothing except go with the flow, i.e. doing anything and everything Sterling wanted him to do - for me, that killed any chemistry there might have been between the two of them. I was expecting to see fireworks. I was expecting to see a man who was determined to win back the love of his life. I was expecting to see Forrest going all out in his pursuit of Sterling, but that was unfortunately not the case. The author gave Sterling the upper hand while Forrest got the personality of a blank page; he was there purely to prop Sterling up.

I enjoyed Hawk and Quinn's book the most thus far. The balance of power between them was spread equally; no one took a back seat. I will read West and Avery's story in the hope that the author brings back the magic she created in Hawk and Quinn's book.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sterling is the youngest and one of the first siblings we were introduced to when Griffin returned to Sawyers Bend in the 1st book. She was painfully alone but he helped get her cleaned up and became the big brother and paternal figure she needed at the time. That’s why it was brutal in book 3 after Forrest lied to her. Over the past year she’s pulled herself together and found a support system with her estranged siblings but ultimately is still hurt from Forrest’s betrayal.

Now in book 7 we’re back to wrap up his own family’s mystery and another Sawyer family bombshell. Sterling and Forrest find themselves putting together clues from a “treasure hunt” of riddles, ciphers and codes. This created a steadily moving plot and a fresh side for two characters we thought we knew. Sterling is maturing and opening herself to the possibility of a life she didn’t know she wanted. Forrest facing a new reality about his family’s history added a lot of the drama.

If you don’t have time to start from the beginning of the series I recommend at least reading Book 3, Scheming Heart. There’s an overarching storyline about who killed the father (and he really needed killin’). More importantly Forrest was introduced in Tenn and Scarlett’s story (Book 3) where he and Sterling started (and ended) their relationship. I’d suggest taking a peak at that one first and also because it’s one of my favorites. He has a hefty storyline in the book and his background and connection to the family is established.

The bonus was a stop in Atlanta to see Alice, Lucas and Cooper!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ivy Lane does it again! Another great book.

Forrest was first introduced into the series a few books back, when he was caught in a big lie. The lie was about the statue, his fathers lost fortune, and revenge.

Sterling was heart broken when it all came to light about Forrest and his betrayal. It’s been a year, and though he keeps showing up to support her and her family, she just isn’t ready to trust him with her heart again.

The thing is, she really isn’t given a choice because he’s always had her heart and fighting it while chasing the lost fortune is as hard as she thinks it’ll be.

Brax, Sterlings brother is the bad guy in this particular book. It really isn’t surprising, since he’s been shown so little to rough out the series. It always felt like he’d be a throw away character.

Anyway, Brax locks Forrest and Sterling in the root cellar and tries to kill them on the cliff. He’s killed, by Callum the Irish mob guy, in that last hateful attempt to hurt Sterling.

One thing: I think Prentice killed himself and framed Ford. If I’m correct, Prentice wanted revenge on Ford since Ford left his evil persona behind and started stepping up for his siblings.

I can’t wait for the next book to see if I’m right. West definitely needs more screen time in this series. The last several books he’s been almost non existent when he had a bit bigger presence and the beginning of the series.

Is Ford getting a book of his own? Right now Amazon shows the series ending at book 8. Please, Ivy Lane, say it isn’t so.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! Forrest and Sterling had been broken up for a year as he had lied to her and broke her heart. Forrest was miserable and was so sorry for the hurt he caused her. He was hoping to make it up to her as he still loved her and had bought a home near her. Forrest was trying to get back a statue Sterling’s father had stolen which was supposed to have codes for a fortune. Sterling was the youngest Sawyer and a half sister. Her father had been horrible to her when he was alive which broke down any confidence she had in herself. Sterling was good at writing programs and cracking codes. It had to have been hard for Sterling as she couldn’t get the statue out of her head and a code she found that she needed Forrest’s help. I was glad she had to ask for his help as this put the two of them together on a scavenger hunt for the next clue. It was suspenseful as there was a mob guy that wanted the money and kept showing up giving them problems. One of Sterling’s brothers hated her for some reason and he was giving them problems. Poor Forrest’s mother was upset with Forrest for going after the clues and just wanted him to leave his father’s past alone. It seemed like every time I turned around there was a wrench thrown in to their progress. I did love how the two had to talk and see each other in a different light. If you like suspense, mystery, and romance like me you will not want to miss this book!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ABSOLUTELY love the Sawyers and Sawyers Bend.This is a GREAT series! I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this book! Sterling & Forrest are wonderful together - a perfect mix. I loved the way he took care of her and let her come into her own.

Forrest and Sterling are in previous Sawyers Bend books where they break up due to Forrest lies involving the statue Sterling’s father stole. So many people want this statue, and Sterling appears to know how to “crack” the code to reveal the money. But it ends up being so much more to this statue. Sterling & Forrest make an arrangement to work together on solving the mystery of the statue. Sterling wants money, but Forrest wants Sterling back because he still loves her. There was so much character growth for Sterling & Forrest, especially Sterling. Sterling & Forrest together is just magical. So happy they are together again - sweet LOVE! Sterling did “crack” all of the codes of the statues. And it was definitely not what I thought, and it sure wasn’t money.

There are still many unanswered questions. We revisited with other characters from previous books. We're learning more about Ford and her brother Brax. All shedding light on Sterling’s upbringing and why she’s the way she is. But we still don’t know who killed Prentice. I can't wait for the next book to be released! I received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving my review voluntarily and honestly.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 7th story in the Hearts of Sawyers Bend Series and to date my NEW favorite! In this one Sterling finds herself a year after Forrest’s lies and secrets destroyed their relationship. Forrest stays in Sawyers Bend working for her brothers at the Inn with the chance to prove to Sterling that he loves her and to make up for his painful mistakes. Forrest’s finally has ownership of the Statue that belonged to his father after all the turmoil and death it caused. Everyone believed the numbers represented a hidden fortune but no one could ever decipher them. We have Sterling the youngest sibling who was treated horribly by her father and brother that she stopped showing interest in breaking codes and programs so one night she understands the numbers and goes to Forrest to offer help making a deal for a percent of their findings. Unknown to them there are others who are out to hurt and take what they can without doing the work. Once these two agree finding themselves on a scavenger hunt where they find clues that were meant to be experienced by Forrest and his late father. When they need his mother’s help she’s still upset with him for revisiting his father’s past but happy to finally meet Sterling hoping this is a chance for her to forgive Forrest. Their journey to the end is one where secrets, history, evilness, greed, family support, redemption and love find their way into Sterling and Forrest’s lives with one unexpected surprise!

[marshas_world_of_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Forrest’s redemption story and to just see more of him because I just knew I would love him. Ivy Layne did not disappoint with her delivery of him, he is everything I hoped he would be. I also truly loved how much depth she gave Sterling. I think she has given Sterling more character growth than all of her previous FMC’s. When you put Forrest and Sterling together, it’s just magical. I love them so much. THEN she added one of my favorite book boyfriends of all time Lucas Jackson and I might have squealed in delight. As always the suspense aspect of Ivy’s books was on point, she always keeps you guessing on who did what. With this one I was convinced one of the villains was someone out of left field, I am glad I was so wrong with that guess. I will say the ending had me a bit disappointed and wanting more, then I realized I should have known better. This is a standalone so you don’t have to read the rest, however and as always, why wouldn’t you want to! Everything about this book, from the drama, suspense, spice, the rebuilding of a relationship, is just perfection. Ivy Layne never misses for me, she will forever be an auto read author of mine.

[Leslie Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to The Hearts of Sawyers Bend series! I love how each story keeps you guessing.

Sterling Sawyer is trying to turn her life around. Not only is her family trying to piece together the mystery of their father’s death but now she’s reeling from recently learning the man she loved lied about everything. Her broken heart was not about to trust him again.

Forrest Powell deeply regretted lying to Sterling and her family but he had to find out the Sawyers’ connection to his late father’s death. His father left him with a treasure hunt that only Sterling could help him with. Her brilliant mind could crack any code. Surely, he could find a way back into her good graces?

I absolutely loved this story. Sterling and Forrest took us a bit outside the overarching plot of the series and took us on an adventure of their own. I loved how patient Forrest was with Sterling. He knew he’d deeply hurt her. The treasure hunt aspect was very fascinating and entertaining. I truly didn’t know how this was going to end. I cannot wait to see what’s next!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was anxiously awaiting for this story because Sterling and Forrest had to deal with unfinished business. Beyond the romance, I so much enjoyed this treasure hunt which kept me on burning coals till the end. In this book, the author takes us once again, to Sawyers Bend. Sterling is still in love with Forrest even if he has hurt her badly by lying about his identity. The real reason for which Sterling goes back to Forrest is her fixation on a statue that probably contains the solving puzzle of a mystery. Throughout the entire book, the reader’s attention will be focused on solving this mystery but at the same time both characters seem to come to terms with their reciprocal hostility. I must say that the author has had the perfect ability to combine mystery, suspense and romance. I loved how the characters seemed to forgive one another but mostly how things, at the end, turned out for the best. I really love this series and I highly recommend this book.

[Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Does not stand alone

## Grr. I bought book 8 (Avery & West) because the synopsis sounded so good AND there was a note from the author in the description that stated that it could be read as a stand alone. Not so. I was confused most of the book. Then, I accidentally purchased this book not realizing it was from the same series (AGAIN, it said stand alone). Not true. This couple (Sterling & Forrest) were already in love and had been broken up when the book began. That's the story I would've liked. When Forrest & Sterling were falling in love yet he was lying about his identity and was using Sterling and she finds out. But we dont get to experience any of that. This book focuses on a treasure hunt. Once again there were way too many characters to keep track of. I did love that Sterling didn't forgive Forrest immediately because I despise instant forgiveness. I much liked Sterling, but Forrest was a bit too beta for my taste.

[Miss Kiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure to receive an ARC to read this book - and a huge thank you to Ivy and the team for this opportunity.

I discovered Ivy’s books awhile back and have not looked back since. She’s is one of a few authors that is an automatic choice for me and she does not disappoint.

As a stand alone book this was a 5* read for me. As part of the overall series it was a 3* read.

I love the development that both Sterling and Forrest go through in book. I love their interactions with the other Sawyers and those small connections with the rest of the characters

I do miss a development in the other all story. We’re no where closer to finding out who killed Prentice and why and besides the historical connection with the bust/statue there was little mention regarding the other all plot.

That being said I still loved the book and I can’t wait for the next instalment

[Terri Pietrowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

After being lied to by Forrest Powell about who he was and about their relationship, also the meaning of the statue, Sterling has not talk to Forrest in over a year. But she woke up one morning, needing to see the code again on the bottom of Forrest father, Allan Buckley, statue and needed to see Forrest. After several weeks of trying to decoding the set of number and letters, they had the correct code and headed to the bank holding the Forrest’s family’s lost fortune. But what they found was much more searching and decoding, which caused the attention of several unlikely enemies. Sterling and Forrest scavenger hunt took them from North Carolina to Atlanta, Georgia to Eugene, Oregon, but what they found was much more then they expected.
I am volunteering to leave an ARC review of this book.

[Christina Astorga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and I'm freely reviewing.

Holy moly, what a roller-coaster!! I knew going in this was going to be good. This was just fan-flippin-tastic. This is a standalone in a long series and it's absolutely worth it to read the other books. In this story, we have Forrest and Sterling, who we met in previous books. Their love story has already started as Forrest made a huge mistake and now this is the book for his redemption. Sterling isn't your typical heroine and that just makes her more amazing. This is an adventure book where you're following along with the couple as they go along.

Just so you know, I'm a huge fan of this author. Very rarely, do I not love her books and couples. This is just another example of that. I seriously loved this book and I don't have enough words to describe my joy with it.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book, amazing series. I fell in love with this author when she was writing her last series; The Winters Saga - if you haven’t read it, don’t hesitate. This series, The Hearts of Sawyers Bend is amazing. This is a series you can’t wait for each book to come out. Al l the books are different but have the famiky and circumstances in common. This story starts to tie everything up - it’s compelling and as a matter of fact,mi intend to start over and read the entire series so far over Christmas. Do not hesitate, you can go wrong. The author’s writing takes you away, you forget you are reading and before you know it, it’s over way too soon even though the book is quite longs. Loved it.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Heart is a long awaited continuation of the series!


I have been waiting forever for this story to come out.  I am hoping that another will come soon as we still don't know for sure who murdered the father.  This book is Sterling's story.  Sterling is the illegitimate daughter whose life has been a train wreck.  Lost in a sea of alcohol, Sterling was given an ultimatum, clean it up or get out.  More than a year later, she is sober but alone after the love of her life admitted to lying to her about the start of his intentions to be around the family.   She finds herself unable to forget about the Vitellius and the lies surrounding it.  What ensues is adventure, travel, and more murder.

[Giovanni Arango · Rating 5 out of 5]

segundas oportunidades

Me gusto mucho el libro ámame a esta pareja desde el principio, sentí tanta nostalgia mientras ellos estaban en su búsqueda del tesoro y lloré por el niño que perdían a su padres y la niña que realmente no tuvo ninguno. Me entristeció lo de Brax pensé quiero tendríamos un libro de cada uno de ellos y el tendría su redención. Espero que allá redención para Fort amare un libro sobre el, y por supuesto ya se quien es el verdadero malo de la historia ate algunas pistas desde el primer libro y estoy segura que tengo un nombre. muchas gracias por otro excelente libro Elizabeth Arango.

[Haidee · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very beginning of this 7th book in the Sawyer Bend series, I was captivated by the lives of Forrest and Sterling. I eagerly awaited their story, and it did not disappoint. The author beautifully showcases their vulnerabilities and strengths, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested in their journey. This book takes you on a rollercoaster ride from the start, culminating in an unexpected twist involving Sterling and Brax.
Although this story stands alone in a long series, it’s worth diving into the other books. Each one enriches the experience and deepens your connection to the characters.

[Lorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scavenger Hunt
Heartstone Manor just keeps everyone on their toes. Sterling is still trying to transform herself into what she thinks the Family expects of her and yet all they want is for her to be herself and Happy! Withe her ex, Forrest, working for the family and living in the area the pain of his lies never seem to fade. Can Sterling come to terms with her feelings or will all of the family drama and the pain of Forrest’s deception be the end? Dreams, feelings, intelligence and spunk are working to get Sterling where she needs to be but there are also dangerous forces working against her. Can Forrest overcome his past? Can Sterling forgive and forget? Grab the book and find out!

[Terra Drynan-Werder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been looking forward to Sterling and Forrest's book for quite some time and it did not disappoint. I always felt there was so much more to Sterling than the party girl she first appeared as and I was not wrong. She is so smart and was able to help Forrest solve the mystery of his father's statue. I loved seeing Forrest mend some relationships and I grew even more found of him. This was a great story that even included an amazing wedding of another couple from a previous book. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book for my honest opinion.

[J Lundsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book we've been waiting for!!!

This is by far my favorite in the series. Look, we've known Sterling for a long time. We watched the party girl youngest sister hit rock bottom. We were there as she struggled to get sober and clean up her life. We watched her fall in love and get her heart broken. And now. Finally. We get to know the real Sterling. And see her get her second chance at love. With Forest.

I've been rooting for these two for a long time. The mystery was superb. The romance was heartfelt. The chemistry was off the charts. Five big stars.

[Denise H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun addition to the series! I loved the clues and treasure hunt and Sterling and Forrest worked so well together. This was an emotional journey for both of them and full of family drama and surprises along the way. The characters were great, the storyline full of mystery and suspense to keep you flipping pages, and there was plenty of danger, excitement, steam, emotions, and twists and turns with a satisfying ending. I wish there would have been progress mentioned related to Prentice's death tying this book to the others in the overall series; but it was still an enjoyable read.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!

I loved this story of Forrest and Sterling!! He had hurt her by lying and she wasn't willing to forgive him. Then she dreamed of the statue and the code and had to go see him and the statue. She had that inquisitive mind and wanted to solve the puzzle. After she solved the first cipher, they worked together on the others. He was still in love with her and she was slowly forgiving him. I love these two together. They really are made for each other. I love this book and series. I highly recommend! I can't wait for Avery and West's story!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book just doesn’t quit. It grabs you on the first page and doesn’t let up until the epilogue is finished. I had to put it down a couple of times to take a breath or two before I could continue on with the story. It’s just that good. The characters are really well-written. The plot is so nicely developed, it feeds you little bits and then drops a big chunk, that won’t allow you to let go. I read far into the night, when I should have put the book down. You’ll love it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my freely given, honest review.

[Jeanne Mead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Getting to know Forrest and knowing how he lied to Sterling left you thinking how is this going to play out.
Well, imagine his surprise when she showed up at his door offering to help solve the clues his late father left behind leading to a supposed treasure of wealth.
Can her heart take being near him while trying to follow the trail towards the prize?
An emotional adventure with many unexpected surprises and pitfalls that has your heart beating in double time.
Loved this!

[Silke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Heart is the 7th book in the series and I highly recommend reading them in order since there are plenty of references to events and characters from previous books. Forrest and Sterling's story is a second-chance-at-love romance combined with a treasure hunt which delves deeply into Forrest's past and deadly suspense with some unexpected twists that had me flipping the pages as fast as I could. A wonderful addition and I can't wait for the next one!
I was fortunate to have received a copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.

[Jodi Slaby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC for my honest review.

Another great addition to this series. There is little by way of development of the overall mystery, and there is some surprising development with a sibling that seemed a bit forced, but overall, I enjoyed the book. Sterling and Forrest were introduced earlier, and this was a great way to learn more about them. I really liked them both as characters and I did like how the series story progressed.

[lashawn Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

superb

I’ve been anxiously awaiting for Sterling and Forrest’s story. I knew he had some work to do before he could earn Sterling back. Ivy did not disappoint in their story. Curve balls that I wasn’t quite sure were coming. The biggest one was Brax- wasn’t expecting that at all. I cannot wait to read more and hope that we find out more- a bit of a cliffhanger compared to many of the others.