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At War with a Broken Heart
What's the perfect recipe for an emotional MMM romance?
One autistic coffee shop owner, one morose mug maker, and a mostly cheerful police detective.
Fie Morogh Russell goes off to war with a broken heart and returns with a shattered spirit. He hermits away in Bideford, Devon, making mugs, with his service dog, Haggard, for company. Post-traumatic stress turns every memory into a minefield, and life is dismal with one or two rare exceptions.
Davet Heuse drags his younger brother to Bideford for a new start. Both autistic, the two siblings have fought hard to enjoy freedom by the seaside. While Davet runs a coffee shop from his tiny house, his brother pursues his dream at university.
Detective Sidney Little has transitioned from military service to the police force easily. His unrequited crushes and his estranged father are the only points of frustration in his life. He hasn't quite figured out how to deal with either problem.
When a tragic accident brings Davet's world crashing down around him, can Fie and Sid help him through the pain of loss?
In this May-December romance with a twist, three men struggle through one obstacle after the other to somehow find themselves in love on the other side.
One autistic coffee shop owner, one morose mug maker, and a mostly cheerful police detective.
Fie Morogh Russell goes off to war with a broken heart and returns with a shattered spirit. He hermits away in Bideford, Devon, making mugs, with his service dog, Haggard, for company. Post-traumatic stress turns every memory into a minefield, and life is dismal with one or two rare exceptions.
Davet Heuse drags his younger brother to Bideford for a new start. Both autistic, the two siblings have fought hard to enjoy freedom by the seaside. While Davet runs a coffee shop from his tiny house, his brother pursues his dream at university.
Detective Sidney Little has transitioned from military service to the police force easily. His unrequited crushes and his estranged father are the only points of frustration in his life. He hasn't quite figured out how to deal with either problem.
When a tragic accident brings Davet's world crashing down around him, can Fie and Sid help him through the pain of loss?
In this May-December romance with a twist, three men struggle through one obstacle after the other to somehow find themselves in love on the other side.
197 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2019
81 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
About the author
Dahlia Donovan
49 books777 followersDahlia Donovan wrote her first romance series after a crazy dream about shifters and damsels in distress. She prefers irreverent humour and unconventional characters. An autistic and occasional hermit, her life wouldn’t be complete without her husband and her massive collection of books and video games.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
March 5, 2019
Overall book rating: 4.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
This one is a little bit of a puzzle to me, by way of figuring out what exactly I feel after I read it.
Did I like the idea of the whole thing?
Of course, that’s why I left everything I’m busy with and read it in the first place. Ex-soldiers with PTSD, not one, but TWO! And a younger guy who needs a little TLC. Hmmm. Yeah it made me sit up and take note alright.
Sadly, I have a very vivid imagination. And it sometimes just jumps in and spoils things for me.
I could already see it in my mind. The brilliance of two traumatised soldiers having to battle their own demons while looking out for young, autistic Davet. Fie being so “crippled” by the horrors of war that he has a service dog to help him battle his everyday life.
Yes well. Lets start with that. Hmmm... I seem to have missed Fie actually dealing and coming to terms with this ‘crippling’ PTSD of his? Cause, I witnessed ONE sort-off panic attack and then he miraculously left it all in the dust?
So right there my happy over active imagination went... Wait...What??
Then there is my personal little pet peeve. Supporting characters being overly “asholled” to make the reader dislike them.
Enters Davet’s parents. Really? Could there not be a more realistic reason and inner logic to the mother and father combo? Because they just seemed like a circus side show to me. Unrealistic in my opinion. No court is going to give a elder child custody of his younger autistic sibling because the parents are verbal assholes.
Sid. He was funny and insecure, not what I imagined him in the beginning and kind of all over the place and never serious.
I don’t get the “relationship” between Sid and Fie. I don’t get how everything just fell into place without one decent discussion between any of them.
Sid and Fie are supposed to have known each other a really long time, Sid moved to a small town to be near Fie.. there is never any mention of any real emotional connection between these two. Things just suddenly happen and there is no explanation or emotional turmoil about it?
David was sweet. I don’t know if his characterisation with the autism thing was 100% because I don’t have experience with that, but I went with it. I liked his character but still. The thing between the three of them was just ... it didn’t work for me. Not the way it came together.
I did enjoy the story. Even after my mile long rant. But it wasn’t what I thought it would be.
If you are looking for emotional and deep. This is not it. It’s got a really great cover and a decent story. But there is no PTSD here, no deep turmoil or struggling. The guys just take each day as it is. The emotional connection is non-existing in my opinion and the side characters are somewhat over dramatic.
I’m really sorry guys. But if you put PTSD in a intro expect me to rant if it’s not in the book.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
This one is a little bit of a puzzle to me, by way of figuring out what exactly I feel after I read it.
Did I like the idea of the whole thing?
Of course, that’s why I left everything I’m busy with and read it in the first place. Ex-soldiers with PTSD, not one, but TWO! And a younger guy who needs a little TLC. Hmmm. Yeah it made me sit up and take note alright.
Sadly, I have a very vivid imagination. And it sometimes just jumps in and spoils things for me.
I could already see it in my mind. The brilliance of two traumatised soldiers having to battle their own demons while looking out for young, autistic Davet. Fie being so “crippled” by the horrors of war that he has a service dog to help him battle his everyday life.
Yes well. Lets start with that. Hmmm... I seem to have missed Fie actually dealing and coming to terms with this ‘crippling’ PTSD of his? Cause, I witnessed ONE sort-off panic attack and then he miraculously left it all in the dust?
So right there my happy over active imagination went... Wait...What??
Then there is my personal little pet peeve. Supporting characters being overly “asholled” to make the reader dislike them.
Enters Davet’s parents. Really? Could there not be a more realistic reason and inner logic to the mother and father combo? Because they just seemed like a circus side show to me. Unrealistic in my opinion. No court is going to give a elder child custody of his younger autistic sibling because the parents are verbal assholes.
Sid. He was funny and insecure, not what I imagined him in the beginning and kind of all over the place and never serious.
I don’t get the “relationship” between Sid and Fie. I don’t get how everything just fell into place without one decent discussion between any of them.
Sid and Fie are supposed to have known each other a really long time, Sid moved to a small town to be near Fie.. there is never any mention of any real emotional connection between these two. Things just suddenly happen and there is no explanation or emotional turmoil about it?
David was sweet. I don’t know if his characterisation with the autism thing was 100% because I don’t have experience with that, but I went with it. I liked his character but still. The thing between the three of them was just ... it didn’t work for me. Not the way it came together.
I did enjoy the story. Even after my mile long rant. But it wasn’t what I thought it would be.
If you are looking for emotional and deep. This is not it. It’s got a really great cover and a decent story. But there is no PTSD here, no deep turmoil or struggling. The guys just take each day as it is. The emotional connection is non-existing in my opinion and the side characters are somewhat over dramatic.
I’m really sorry guys. But if you put PTSD in a intro expect me to rant if it’s not in the book.
February 26, 2019
What an emotional story this was, and stunningly written. The constantly blowing breeze of comfort and uncomforted throughout this story was so palpable.
The wonderful defined characters of these three men stole my heart, also the secondary characters were wonderfully developed. There are despicable ones who will not be named.
There is Davet, the youngest of the three, owner of Coffee First coffee bar and autist, Fie mug maker, ex military, owner of Haggard his service dog and Sid from the same military service as Fie, now working as police detective and owner of humor and good mood.
They all live in the same small village. And all three are more than attracted to each other.
After a horrible tragedy Davet is left with grief and hurt and the three men are getting closer and closer.
All three have their own past and future and throughout this story it’s all revealed.
This story is so amazingly naturally written it felt familiar and close. So all feelings felt close.
The clear language all three men spoke was fantastic, the no nonsense, straightforward and everybody-just-shut-up attitude, it was delicious and satisfying to witness.
Three men all with their own explicit characteristics finding solace, love and space with each other was more than beautiful.
Thank you lord for clear language! Thank you lord for having each other’s back, through thick and thin. The humor was masterful, witty, sarcastic and at times endearing.
Some deeply emotional lines punched so hard into my guts a spontaneous cry was the only thing to do. Excellent development of life’s, family history and environments. The story has a plot with hard and soft edges, goshh it made my laugh and cry. I adored the men and the whole story immensely.
Read and reviewed for LesCourt ARC team
The wonderful defined characters of these three men stole my heart, also the secondary characters were wonderfully developed. There are despicable ones who will not be named.
There is Davet, the youngest of the three, owner of Coffee First coffee bar and autist, Fie mug maker, ex military, owner of Haggard his service dog and Sid from the same military service as Fie, now working as police detective and owner of humor and good mood.
They all live in the same small village. And all three are more than attracted to each other.
After a horrible tragedy Davet is left with grief and hurt and the three men are getting closer and closer.
All three have their own past and future and throughout this story it’s all revealed.
This story is so amazingly naturally written it felt familiar and close. So all feelings felt close.
The clear language all three men spoke was fantastic, the no nonsense, straightforward and everybody-just-shut-up attitude, it was delicious and satisfying to witness.
Three men all with their own explicit characteristics finding solace, love and space with each other was more than beautiful.
Thank you lord for clear language! Thank you lord for having each other’s back, through thick and thin. The humor was masterful, witty, sarcastic and at times endearing.
Some deeply emotional lines punched so hard into my guts a spontaneous cry was the only thing to do. Excellent development of life’s, family history and environments. The story has a plot with hard and soft edges, goshh it made my laugh and cry. I adored the men and the whole story immensely.
Read and reviewed for LesCourt ARC team
March 5, 2019
First of all, one of the MCs is autistic and although I believe that the author has described his behavior and emotions realistically, I simply don't have the knowledge to judge this. My rating says only how much I enjoyed or rather not enjoyed this book.
Well, we have three main characters, Davet, an autistic coffee shop owner in his twenties and Fie and Sid, two traumatized Afghanistan veterans in their forties who all fall in love with each other. An interesting constellation that made me curious. Unfortunately I did not warm up, did not connect with the writing style of the author. Yes, I felt sad with Davet when he suffered a tragic loss and yes, I was angry at his parents' abusive behavior toward him. Yes, I loved Fie's fantastic dog Haggart and I enjoyed meeting Fie's warm-hearted and joyous family.
But the most important part of the story, this deep friendship I expected, that knitted a bond between the three characters, I have not found. I did not feel the connection between them and certainly no sexual tension.
So, it may just be me and not the book, but it is how I felt it. Sorry!
2.5 stars
Well, we have three main characters, Davet, an autistic coffee shop owner in his twenties and Fie and Sid, two traumatized Afghanistan veterans in their forties who all fall in love with each other. An interesting constellation that made me curious. Unfortunately I did not warm up, did not connect with the writing style of the author. Yes, I felt sad with Davet when he suffered a tragic loss and yes, I was angry at his parents' abusive behavior toward him. Yes, I loved Fie's fantastic dog Haggart and I enjoyed meeting Fie's warm-hearted and joyous family.
But the most important part of the story, this deep friendship I expected, that knitted a bond between the three characters, I have not found. I did not feel the connection between them and certainly no sexual tension.
So, it may just be me and not the book, but it is how I felt it. Sorry!
2.5 stars
June 4, 2020
A unique ménage relationship and more....
There are lots of issues in this unique story, like autism, possible murder, threesome love, hateful parents, a non-accepting father, an ex, and PTSD.
This is set in the UK, where younger Davet (on the cover) is an autistic man who runs a cafe, and cares for his autistic brother.
Older Detective Sid is a burly local cop, who likes his community, and from afar, loves Davet and Fie.
Fie is a “bear” in his 40s, who has a changed personality from being in the Afghanistan war, has a service dog, and is a potter who makes mugs.
They are an unlikely trio, but don’t get together right away, because tragedy strikes Davet’s brother, Fraco.
An investigation ensues, and the town, Sid, and Fie watch over Davet.
Unusual, snarky, sad, and full of anticipation, the story moves along, jumping ahead at times to span time.
The men understand each other so well, and the older men have come to know Davet and his autistic quirks and needs.
Their ménage sexy times are hot and fulfilling.
We see interactions, hear deep thoughts, get some humorous banter, and get varying conclusions to the issues; plus we see tender feelings which lead to full blown love.
Our emotions are taken on a an ride.
Enjoy.
=====
There are lots of issues in this unique story, like autism, possible murder, threesome love, hateful parents, a non-accepting father, an ex, and PTSD.
This is set in the UK, where younger Davet (on the cover) is an autistic man who runs a cafe, and cares for his autistic brother.
Older Detective Sid is a burly local cop, who likes his community, and from afar, loves Davet and Fie.
Fie is a “bear” in his 40s, who has a changed personality from being in the Afghanistan war, has a service dog, and is a potter who makes mugs.
They are an unlikely trio, but don’t get together right away, because tragedy strikes Davet’s brother, Fraco.
An investigation ensues, and the town, Sid, and Fie watch over Davet.
Unusual, snarky, sad, and full of anticipation, the story moves along, jumping ahead at times to span time.
The men understand each other so well, and the older men have come to know Davet and his autistic quirks and needs.
Their ménage sexy times are hot and fulfilling.
We see interactions, hear deep thoughts, get some humorous banter, and get varying conclusions to the issues; plus we see tender feelings which lead to full blown love.
Our emotions are taken on a an ride.
Enjoy.
=====
Read
March 1, 2019I don't know what it is exactly, but I have a little bit of a hard time connecting with this author and her writing style. I felt the same I did after reading another story from her - I love the British-isms of it and I love her pets (Haggard was the best! 14/10, a good boy). With this story, being about a threesome with some angst and may/december age gap, that's all the makings for a story that I would love. But as I was reading, (and especially when this is such an emotional story what with Fie's military history, Sid's lack of fatherly support, and what happens to Davet), I felt myself missing that emotion and connection between the characters.
I really enjoyed Davet and how he dealt with his autism, and how supportive Fie and Sid were in making sure that his mannerisms weren't a big deal. I admit, I don't know too much about autism, but it felt realistically portrayed. I wasn't a big fan of Davet's uncle (too wishy washy on things for me) and some times I felt like I almost missed something or it jumped ahead too quickly for me. They kiss and then 6 months go by in this little town?
I know a lot of people enjoy this author so I would say to give this story a try! I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed Davet and how he dealt with his autism, and how supportive Fie and Sid were in making sure that his mannerisms weren't a big deal. I admit, I don't know too much about autism, but it felt realistically portrayed. I wasn't a big fan of Davet's uncle (too wishy washy on things for me) and some times I felt like I almost missed something or it jumped ahead too quickly for me. They kiss and then 6 months go by in this little town?
I know a lot of people enjoy this author so I would say to give this story a try! I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2019
Gah. This book had me hooked. The start was intriguing. There was the quirky small town, the interesting characters who felt so unique and real, and the potential for romance. I wasn’t sure where it was going to go until we got our first interaction between Sid and Fie, and their banter was hilarious. They have a history and a friendship and I could see that with the right conditions they could have more.
And then there’s the heartbreak. And I felt it. And Sid and Fie stood up right next to Davet and I loved it. I was on this journey with them. And it was going to be painful but ultimately healing and end in love...
Well fuck me. That’s not what happened. Because what did we get?????
A SIX MONTH TIME JUMP AFTER THEIR FIRST KISS! Are you f**king kidding me?
That time jump ruined all momentum for me and never recovered. So while this ended with a HEA, the last 40% was wasted on me. And I am so disappointed because the start was great.
And then there’s the heartbreak. And I felt it. And Sid and Fie stood up right next to Davet and I loved it. I was on this journey with them. And it was going to be painful but ultimately healing and end in love...
Well fuck me. That’s not what happened. Because what did we get?????
A SIX MONTH TIME JUMP AFTER THEIR FIRST KISS! Are you f**king kidding me?
That time jump ruined all momentum for me and never recovered. So while this ended with a HEA, the last 40% was wasted on me. And I am so disappointed because the start was great.
March 18, 2019
Fie, Davet, and Sydney make such a wonderful romance. This is my favorite book I have read by Dahlia Donovan. Here, she balances the very serious topics here of grief, PTSD, and social prejudice against people with autism.
Each hero is fully developed and that balance and watching them date and court is wonderful. The youngest of our heroes, Davet, is created with the agency too often taken away from characters with disabilities. We get to see Fie's healing journey. Sydney finally get his man and another man too.
The dark moments of this book (and there is a darkness in the hopeless of the limits of what can done with certain pains in this story) are lifted by the joy of watching these three fall in love.
The book doesn't real realistically with how a poly relationship might be taken in a small town but the power in the other elements of the plot allow me to suspend my disbelief.
This is a touching love story.
Each hero is fully developed and that balance and watching them date and court is wonderful. The youngest of our heroes, Davet, is created with the agency too often taken away from characters with disabilities. We get to see Fie's healing journey. Sydney finally get his man and another man too.
The dark moments of this book (and there is a darkness in the hopeless of the limits of what can done with certain pains in this story) are lifted by the joy of watching these three fall in love.
The book doesn't real realistically with how a poly relationship might be taken in a small town but the power in the other elements of the plot allow me to suspend my disbelief.
This is a touching love story.
February 24, 2019
This was a lovely, thought-provoking story of loss, love, and learning to live again. It's heartfelt and poignant, and definitely made me feel. And I appreciated how delicately certain situations were handled in this book.
MMM can de tricky, especially if there's already an established couple bringing in a third, but that was not the case in this book. Even though 2 of the men had a bit of history, that had no impact on what was developing between the 3. I very much enjoyed seeing them build a relationship together.
I liked all three of the characters, they each were so different yet fit so well together. Fie and Davet are both quite vulnerable, and they pulled at my heartstrings for different reasons. Sidney was what I'd consider the anchor of the trio- who, even with his own troubles, was the calm in the storm.
At War with a Broken Heart was an engaging, endearing, compelling story. It was thoughtful, a bit melancholy, but overall really enjoyable.
MMM can de tricky, especially if there's already an established couple bringing in a third, but that was not the case in this book. Even though 2 of the men had a bit of history, that had no impact on what was developing between the 3. I very much enjoyed seeing them build a relationship together.
I liked all three of the characters, they each were so different yet fit so well together. Fie and Davet are both quite vulnerable, and they pulled at my heartstrings for different reasons. Sidney was what I'd consider the anchor of the trio- who, even with his own troubles, was the calm in the storm.
At War with a Broken Heart was an engaging, endearing, compelling story. It was thoughtful, a bit melancholy, but overall really enjoyable.
February 16, 2020
I truly loved this story and the only reason I only gave 4 stars is that I wanted more descriptive sex scenes. Fie, Sid and Davet's relationship is so hot that I needed more juicy details.
I'm glad we didn't get to meet Fraco...that would have been too hard otherwise.
All 3 have different ways of dealing with their issues but it's works beautifully together.
I'm glad we didn't get to meet Fraco...that would have been too hard otherwise.
All 3 have different ways of dealing with their issues but it's works beautifully together.
July 12, 2019
This author is new to me within the past year. I really enjoy reading her work. Set in the beautiful English countryside, life in a small village, and great characters add to my reading pleasure.
In this story, the blurb says most of the basics, and I'd add to that that the combination of three totally different personalities, none of whom overpower the rest, made for a sweet and steady menage romance.
Fie is suffering from PTSD over the loss of his men to a bomb in Afghanistan. Sid moved to Devon to be near Fie, though he doesn't tell him that, when Sid leaves the service and joins the local police force. Both men are in their forties and we learn late in the story that Sid has loved Fie for a long time but the quiet, taciturn Fie is living in his own head with his anxieties and doesn't really notice. Davet is a younger man, in his twenties, who suffers from autism and runs a small coffee shop from a cottage on his uncle's property. He and his brother moved there to escape an abusive family life once Davet became old enough to make himself heard. His brother is off to college as the story opens but tragedy strikes and Davet is unsure if he himself will survive his pain.
I like the fact the author took the time to build the relationship between all three men, and I loved the supporting cast of characters including Sid's friend Jacinda, Davet's friends who are mostly revealed through text messages, and Fie's family--big, bold, loud, and loving. Davet's aunt and uncle are so-so, though I know they needed to be that way for the story to evolve and his parents can fall off the earth, for all I care. Sid's father causes drama as well, but it's mostly due to his own struggle with acceptance of his gay son and his partners.
Needless to say there's a lot of story here. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy May-December, menage, and/or stories set in rural UK.
In this story, the blurb says most of the basics, and I'd add to that that the combination of three totally different personalities, none of whom overpower the rest, made for a sweet and steady menage romance.
Fie is suffering from PTSD over the loss of his men to a bomb in Afghanistan. Sid moved to Devon to be near Fie, though he doesn't tell him that, when Sid leaves the service and joins the local police force. Both men are in their forties and we learn late in the story that Sid has loved Fie for a long time but the quiet, taciturn Fie is living in his own head with his anxieties and doesn't really notice. Davet is a younger man, in his twenties, who suffers from autism and runs a small coffee shop from a cottage on his uncle's property. He and his brother moved there to escape an abusive family life once Davet became old enough to make himself heard. His brother is off to college as the story opens but tragedy strikes and Davet is unsure if he himself will survive his pain.
I like the fact the author took the time to build the relationship between all three men, and I loved the supporting cast of characters including Sid's friend Jacinda, Davet's friends who are mostly revealed through text messages, and Fie's family--big, bold, loud, and loving. Davet's aunt and uncle are so-so, though I know they needed to be that way for the story to evolve and his parents can fall off the earth, for all I care. Sid's father causes drama as well, but it's mostly due to his own struggle with acceptance of his gay son and his partners.
Needless to say there's a lot of story here. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy May-December, menage, and/or stories set in rural UK.
March 15, 2019
Dahlia Donvan has done it again! A brilliant story that will leave you emotionally both high and drained. I'm going to be honest, I didn't know what to expect from this book, but given this is one of my must-read authors, I had to check it out and I'm so happy I did. I was blown away by everything about this book.
So many times in books that go into a poly relationship, something gets lost in translation. The characters don't stand out as much, and even if the story has a good premise, it comes out bland or unbelievable. The stories seem more fantasy than reality, but not this one. It felt like I was reading about real people, the situation was believable, and the story blew me away. Creative, original, well-written, great characters, and so much more. Have tissues once again because this author knows how to wrench your heart out. I highly suggest you one click this book today. 5 stars!
So many times in books that go into a poly relationship, something gets lost in translation. The characters don't stand out as much, and even if the story has a good premise, it comes out bland or unbelievable. The stories seem more fantasy than reality, but not this one. It felt like I was reading about real people, the situation was believable, and the story blew me away. Creative, original, well-written, great characters, and so much more. Have tissues once again because this author knows how to wrench your heart out. I highly suggest you one click this book today. 5 stars!
February 18, 2019
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this romance from a new to me author, especially the setting in the U.K. Fie is veteran with PTSD, isolating himself in his cottage making pottery to sell. He also has a service dog named Haggard (who is probably my favorite thing in the whole story). Sidney, currently a police detective has known Fie for a very long time through serving with Fie and had a one-night stand with him at some point in the past. Both are drawn to the local coffeeshop owner, Davet and are often protective of him. Davet saved himself and his brother from abusive parents, plus both are on the autism spectrum. When tragedy strikes Davet, it pushes Fie and Sidney to become closer to each other too. I was a little confused about them coming together so easily when it seemed none had even considered it before. The transition from just friends to lovers happened fast and I felt like I missed something or as if there was a previous book introducing them somewhere.
There are many secondary characters, as friends and coworkers, aunts, uncles, good and bad parents moving in and out of the narrative. I thought the characterization was quite good for the three men and secondary figures. The way Davet’s autism was portrayed, seemed very authentic from what I’ve heard and read about the condition. He was the best-drawn of the three men, IMO, easily shutting down any attempts to coddle him by Fie or Sid. There is some angst and a subplot adding a thread of suspense. I was left with a good impression of the book and writing and I’d recommend it as a quieter, less emotional read.
I really enjoyed this romance from a new to me author, especially the setting in the U.K. Fie is veteran with PTSD, isolating himself in his cottage making pottery to sell. He also has a service dog named Haggard (who is probably my favorite thing in the whole story). Sidney, currently a police detective has known Fie for a very long time through serving with Fie and had a one-night stand with him at some point in the past. Both are drawn to the local coffeeshop owner, Davet and are often protective of him. Davet saved himself and his brother from abusive parents, plus both are on the autism spectrum. When tragedy strikes Davet, it pushes Fie and Sidney to become closer to each other too. I was a little confused about them coming together so easily when it seemed none had even considered it before. The transition from just friends to lovers happened fast and I felt like I missed something or as if there was a previous book introducing them somewhere.
There are many secondary characters, as friends and coworkers, aunts, uncles, good and bad parents moving in and out of the narrative. I thought the characterization was quite good for the three men and secondary figures. The way Davet’s autism was portrayed, seemed very authentic from what I’ve heard and read about the condition. He was the best-drawn of the three men, IMO, easily shutting down any attempts to coddle him by Fie or Sid. There is some angst and a subplot adding a thread of suspense. I was left with a good impression of the book and writing and I’d recommend it as a quieter, less emotional read.
February 28, 2019
•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´3.5 stars
The story took a different turn than what I had anticipated. It was raw and angst-filled. The trio all had issues with emotions and the slow burn was sloooow! I was actually left wanting. I will say that there was a moment or two that I shed a tear, or got upset; but I know the it was intended for the story to be told. I didn't like what Davet had gone through and I wished that he had gotten better closure. There was some growth in characterization and a happy ending had by all.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author through LesCourt.
✮ (¸.•´3.5 stars
The story took a different turn than what I had anticipated. It was raw and angst-filled. The trio all had issues with emotions and the slow burn was sloooow! I was actually left wanting. I will say that there was a moment or two that I shed a tear, or got upset; but I know the it was intended for the story to be told. I didn't like what Davet had gone through and I wished that he had gotten better closure. There was some growth in characterization and a happy ending had by all.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author through LesCourt.
February 28, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A beautiful healing love story, not like anything else I’ve read!
I loved these characters. They are all broken in there own way and definitely have their own quirks but they fit so well together. I loved Davet and the fact that he’s proudly autistic. The first half of this book broke my heart. It’s tragic and complex and the writing by Dahlia is exceptional! There is so much detail and insight into the autistic mind. As the mother of a gifted autistic son, I loved this approach and I feel I have a little more insight into his mind and emotional wellbeing from understanding Davet. This book is an emotional journey to healing and finding a path through grief. Excellent writing and great depth in the characters, I will hold this story in my heart for a while. Cue book hangover ❤ I highly recommend At War with a Broken Heart!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
A beautiful healing love story, not like anything else I’ve read!
I loved these characters. They are all broken in there own way and definitely have their own quirks but they fit so well together. I loved Davet and the fact that he’s proudly autistic. The first half of this book broke my heart. It’s tragic and complex and the writing by Dahlia is exceptional! There is so much detail and insight into the autistic mind. As the mother of a gifted autistic son, I loved this approach and I feel I have a little more insight into his mind and emotional wellbeing from understanding Davet. This book is an emotional journey to healing and finding a path through grief. Excellent writing and great depth in the characters, I will hold this story in my heart for a while. Cue book hangover ❤ I highly recommend At War with a Broken Heart!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
March 18, 2019
This was a really great story! The characters were great and each one different from the next, yet similar in the most important parts. I think this is the first time I have come across an autistic character that I can remember and I really liked the way Dahlia handled writing him.
Davet was such a strong character who knows his limits and knows what he needs when things get to be too much for him. There are small things that Davet does that I do when I get over whelmed at times.
Fie has so much unresolved emotional trauma from before the war and after that even though he gets some help with it, he dwells on the past and the losses he suffered.
Sid had me laughing just as much as he had me feeling for him. He was definitely the comic relief; even when he’s serious he tries to keep things light.
This is the first book by Dahlia that I have had the pleasure of reading and I really loved it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Davet was such a strong character who knows his limits and knows what he needs when things get to be too much for him. There are small things that Davet does that I do when I get over whelmed at times.
Fie has so much unresolved emotional trauma from before the war and after that even though he gets some help with it, he dwells on the past and the losses he suffered.
Sid had me laughing just as much as he had me feeling for him. He was definitely the comic relief; even when he’s serious he tries to keep things light.
This is the first book by Dahlia that I have had the pleasure of reading and I really loved it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 28, 2019
I’ve never read this author before and was intrigued by the blurb.
The dynamic of the 3 characters was very different than your typical mmm story.
As the story unfolds, you really fall in love with the characters. They are funny and clever. All 3 have their daily struggles but together they find love and mend each other’s hearts.
Will definitely read more books by this author.
The dynamic of the 3 characters was very different than your typical mmm story.
As the story unfolds, you really fall in love with the characters. They are funny and clever. All 3 have their daily struggles but together they find love and mend each other’s hearts.
Will definitely read more books by this author.
April 19, 2019
No me gustó nada y además me resultó tremendamente aburrido.
Se centra en traumas, tristezas y decepciones y no profundiza en la relación, no empatizas y acabas perdiendo totalmente el interés por la historia y por los MC
Se centra en traumas, tristezas y decepciones y no profundiza en la relación, no empatizas y acabas perdiendo totalmente el interés por la historia y por los MC
March 16, 2019
3.25 Stars!
Davet, an autistic coffee shop owner, and two war veterans, Fie and Sidney, are forming a romantic relationship. Fie is struggling with PTSD after his military service. Sidney was in the same military unit as Fie; they are good friends. All the men are struggling with different family issues as well as their own personal struggles. There are lots of pieces here for a story that could have been a great read for me, but I just felt disconnected from it.
I liked Davet. He's a sweetheart, and I liked how he saw to the heart of issues a lot of the time. His perspective on things was really good. He has carved out a life for himself and his brother in a little town near his uncle and aunt. He knows his limits and what he needs to function in the world and has things just as he needs them. Fie is a changed man after returning from the war. His struggles are far from over, but he is slowly improving with help from his friends. Sidney is the one who lightens up a lot of the situations.
I really wanted to like this one more than I did. Davet suffers a terrible loss early on that was hard to see happen; I felt his pain and wished there was something that could be done to alleviate it. While I could see how these three men could make a relationship work and that they were good for each other, I had a hard time seeing their connection. None of the men really ever talks about their feelings for each other. I really felt like Sidney and Fie were just friends and had no romantic feelings for each other until a past event was briefly brought up and even then they avoided discussing what happened between them. I missed the emotion that would have made their relationship seem more real and solid to me.
I enjoyed reading this story, but just felt I was missing something that would have cemented everything together better for me.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Davet, an autistic coffee shop owner, and two war veterans, Fie and Sidney, are forming a romantic relationship. Fie is struggling with PTSD after his military service. Sidney was in the same military unit as Fie; they are good friends. All the men are struggling with different family issues as well as their own personal struggles. There are lots of pieces here for a story that could have been a great read for me, but I just felt disconnected from it.
I liked Davet. He's a sweetheart, and I liked how he saw to the heart of issues a lot of the time. His perspective on things was really good. He has carved out a life for himself and his brother in a little town near his uncle and aunt. He knows his limits and what he needs to function in the world and has things just as he needs them. Fie is a changed man after returning from the war. His struggles are far from over, but he is slowly improving with help from his friends. Sidney is the one who lightens up a lot of the situations.
I really wanted to like this one more than I did. Davet suffers a terrible loss early on that was hard to see happen; I felt his pain and wished there was something that could be done to alleviate it. While I could see how these three men could make a relationship work and that they were good for each other, I had a hard time seeing their connection. None of the men really ever talks about their feelings for each other. I really felt like Sidney and Fie were just friends and had no romantic feelings for each other until a past event was briefly brought up and even then they avoided discussing what happened between them. I missed the emotion that would have made their relationship seem more real and solid to me.
I enjoyed reading this story, but just felt I was missing something that would have cemented everything together better for me.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
February 27, 2019
Fie went to war with a broken heart and came home totally broken. His service dog Haggard helps ground him. Sid has been in love with him for years, during their time in the service together and after. Choosing to spend his life working in a small out of the way police department just to be near Fie. Davit, an autistic young man, raising his brother and running a small coffee shop. Each man is interested in the others but unwilling to take the final steps to bring them together.
When Davit experiences a devastating loss, Fie and Sid become his shelter. Three men, uncertain and scared, come together for a fresh start. I liked how they approached a triad with care and love even if they didn’t realize the love aspect of it sooner.
This was a sad but satisfyingly beautiful. I don’t know much about autism so I can’t judge how it was portrayed. Having read several books by this author, I’m guessing her portrayal of Davit’s
autism spectrum was well researched.
I enjoyed watching Fie and Sid open themselves up to each other and how their feelings for Davit made each man better.
It was a story about how bad family can create a bad life. But ultimately, good family can make it better. Be it people who are no relation, or a rabbit named Fox, a fox named Rabbit, and a very understanding service dog named Haggard.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
When Davit experiences a devastating loss, Fie and Sid become his shelter. Three men, uncertain and scared, come together for a fresh start. I liked how they approached a triad with care and love even if they didn’t realize the love aspect of it sooner.
This was a sad but satisfyingly beautiful. I don’t know much about autism so I can’t judge how it was portrayed. Having read several books by this author, I’m guessing her portrayal of Davit’s
autism spectrum was well researched.
I enjoyed watching Fie and Sid open themselves up to each other and how their feelings for Davit made each man better.
It was a story about how bad family can create a bad life. But ultimately, good family can make it better. Be it people who are no relation, or a rabbit named Fox, a fox named Rabbit, and a very understanding service dog named Haggard.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
January 3, 2020
Quirky, unique read
This was a first by the author for me. I appreciated the British colloquialism; it made be understand a little about some of the dynamics. Initially I thought from reading the blurb that this would be more of a hurt-comfort book with erotic elements thrown in. I believe the writer had ambitious plans to cover many issues. She had three characters, and when you write three characters, who are supposed to be emotionally intertwined, it’s a big challenge to get into each other’s POV. At times, the book was tell-y, and although you felt sympathetic to the characters, there was little tension or angst among them. The sex scenes were more matter of fact, then sexy, in my opinion. Overall, the story of two older men who have PTSD, and a younger autistic man may have been too ambitious for one book. Perhaps if their stories had been broken up so that each character’s issues were addressed more completely, and the attraction among the three of them explored in depth, this book would have been more of a grand slam for me.
This was a first by the author for me. I appreciated the British colloquialism; it made be understand a little about some of the dynamics. Initially I thought from reading the blurb that this would be more of a hurt-comfort book with erotic elements thrown in. I believe the writer had ambitious plans to cover many issues. She had three characters, and when you write three characters, who are supposed to be emotionally intertwined, it’s a big challenge to get into each other’s POV. At times, the book was tell-y, and although you felt sympathetic to the characters, there was little tension or angst among them. The sex scenes were more matter of fact, then sexy, in my opinion. Overall, the story of two older men who have PTSD, and a younger autistic man may have been too ambitious for one book. Perhaps if their stories had been broken up so that each character’s issues were addressed more completely, and the attraction among the three of them explored in depth, this book would have been more of a grand slam for me.
July 24, 2019
Interestingly Different with Lots of Plot Points
This was recommended to me because I was looking for a MM book with pottery. It has a character who does pottery but not much on the that topic.
This book was interestingly different for me. It was set in a very small country town in Europe. Timeframe unknown, not modern day but not far off because of world events mentioned. The happenings in the book are unique and plentiful from an ex showing up several times, a father who doesn't accept his son's lifestyle, a death (potentially murder), mentally abusive parents etc. It felt like a lot of happenings for one little book.
This was recommended to me because I was looking for a MM book with pottery. It has a character who does pottery but not much on the that topic.
This book was interestingly different for me. It was set in a very small country town in Europe. Timeframe unknown, not modern day but not far off because of world events mentioned. The happenings in the book are unique and plentiful from an ex showing up several times, a father who doesn't accept his son's lifestyle, a death (potentially murder), mentally abusive parents etc. It felt like a lot of happenings for one little book.
February 26, 2019
Davet and his younger brother moved to Bideford, in Cornwall to be away from their abusive parents. Davet runs a coffee shop and Fie goes every day for his coffee before starting in his pottery shop. Sid is a local police officer who also frequents the coffee shop, mostly when Fie is there too. All three men have crushed on each other for several years. When Davet is dealt a devastating blow, Fie and Sid have to rally round Davet, to keep the younger man from crumbling. Can they really make this work, the three of them?
I was warned, you know? Warned that I would need a box of tissues, for this one and boy did I need them!
Davet's blow is shocking in it's extreme, and it broke my heart for him. But also, for Fie and Sid, watching their man ( and they WERE a three, even before they voiced it!) fall apart around them and not really being able to help. BUT Davet's parents turning up galvanised them into doing what DAVET needed, rather than what they thought they should be doing, if that makes sense?
It's mmt overly explicit for a three way book, but that's not needed here. HERE it's about three men falling in, and acting on that love, even if it takes a tragedy for them to see it. That loves shines right from the start and it really is a joy to watch them fall, almost one after the other, like dominoes!
All three men have their say, so we get it all. We get Fie's dawning realisation to what Davet might feel for him, and how he deals with his survivors guilt, or not most days. We get Davet's heartbreak, but equally his joy when they finally give in to each other and how HE deals with everyone and everything in his own way. And we get Sid and his internal wrangling with himself over his relationship with his dad, and whether the three of them can REALLY be together.
It's full of Ms Donovan's witty one liners, quirky characters and her damaged and tortured men. Ms Donovan's boys do like to play with their food and I'm so glad we got a little food fight here!
I started this book at 10.15pm, after a long busy shift at work, full of a nasty cold. A few pages before sleep, is the lie you tell yourself and the next thing you know, it's 2.30am, your head is pounding, and you've ran out of book.
So, it can only get . . .
5 full and shiny stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
I was warned, you know? Warned that I would need a box of tissues, for this one and boy did I need them!
Davet's blow is shocking in it's extreme, and it broke my heart for him. But also, for Fie and Sid, watching their man ( and they WERE a three, even before they voiced it!) fall apart around them and not really being able to help. BUT Davet's parents turning up galvanised them into doing what DAVET needed, rather than what they thought they should be doing, if that makes sense?
It's mmt overly explicit for a three way book, but that's not needed here. HERE it's about three men falling in, and acting on that love, even if it takes a tragedy for them to see it. That loves shines right from the start and it really is a joy to watch them fall, almost one after the other, like dominoes!
All three men have their say, so we get it all. We get Fie's dawning realisation to what Davet might feel for him, and how he deals with his survivors guilt, or not most days. We get Davet's heartbreak, but equally his joy when they finally give in to each other and how HE deals with everyone and everything in his own way. And we get Sid and his internal wrangling with himself over his relationship with his dad, and whether the three of them can REALLY be together.
It's full of Ms Donovan's witty one liners, quirky characters and her damaged and tortured men. Ms Donovan's boys do like to play with their food and I'm so glad we got a little food fight here!
I started this book at 10.15pm, after a long busy shift at work, full of a nasty cold. A few pages before sleep, is the lie you tell yourself and the next thing you know, it's 2.30am, your head is pounding, and you've ran out of book.
So, it can only get . . .
5 full and shiny stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
February 24, 2019
Rating: 3.5*
This was a very sweet read. Even though it is a M/M/M the focus is on the relationships between the three men rather than the sex. This was a younger man, Davet and older men, Fie and Sid read. These were all very different characters, all with their own issues. Davet is autistic and suffers a horrific tragedy at the start of this book. His parents are amongst the worst imaginable. Fie has returned from war a broken hero, accompanied by his service dog Haggard, he tries to keep himself locked away from the world but neither Davet nor Sid will allow this. Sid is police officer who is estranged from his father as he wants nothing to do with his gay son.
This a book about healing - healing of the heart and soul and finding peace with the things that can't be changed. It is about healing together rather than apart. It is a beautiful message from some very beautiful characters. Dahlia Donovan did a great job of bringing us characters that don't conform to the usual romance stereotypes and it was refreshing. This was tinged with sadness throughout but the hope outweighs all of this.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
This was a very sweet read. Even though it is a M/M/M the focus is on the relationships between the three men rather than the sex. This was a younger man, Davet and older men, Fie and Sid read. These were all very different characters, all with their own issues. Davet is autistic and suffers a horrific tragedy at the start of this book. His parents are amongst the worst imaginable. Fie has returned from war a broken hero, accompanied by his service dog Haggard, he tries to keep himself locked away from the world but neither Davet nor Sid will allow this. Sid is police officer who is estranged from his father as he wants nothing to do with his gay son.
This a book about healing - healing of the heart and soul and finding peace with the things that can't be changed. It is about healing together rather than apart. It is a beautiful message from some very beautiful characters. Dahlia Donovan did a great job of bringing us characters that don't conform to the usual romance stereotypes and it was refreshing. This was tinged with sadness throughout but the hope outweighs all of this.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
February 23, 2019
Simply Excellent. This is a gay polyamorous romance wherein each of the three men in the relationship have different reasons to be broken, and the author does an excellent job of showing all the warts yet also showing how they heal each other. Truly an excellent romance, even without my next points.
One of the three men in question is Autistic, as is this reader. And this is one of the better representations of Autism I've ever seen in a novel. The author understands Autistics in such depth that she either is Autistic herself or has a very close relationship with an Autistic - I've never known anyone else to understand us this deeply. Her discussions of meltdowns and personhood in particular sound identical to what many Autistics describe, including myself.
Overall a truly remarkable work, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
One of the three men in question is Autistic, as is this reader. And this is one of the better representations of Autism I've ever seen in a novel. The author understands Autistics in such depth that she either is Autistic herself or has a very close relationship with an Autistic - I've never known anyone else to understand us this deeply. Her discussions of meltdowns and personhood in particular sound identical to what many Autistics describe, including myself.
Overall a truly remarkable work, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
March 24, 2019
An okayish book. This is a slow burn romance for three guys who connect helping through tragedy. Beautifully written but for me it was too slow for romance starting. I loved the characters, banter between Fie and Sid was fun. A story also investigates what happened to Fraco, their parents abuse and other themes. Unrequited love between three is never said for years.
Fie was a return war vet coming back a changed man who started making mugs. Detective Sid and Fie where lovers once and Sid wanted more again. Davet and his brother, Fraco where autistic but the loss of Fraco puts Davet in a spin.
Fie was a return war vet coming back a changed man who started making mugs. Detective Sid and Fie where lovers once and Sid wanted more again. Davet and his brother, Fraco where autistic but the loss of Fraco puts Davet in a spin.
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July 31, 2019I'm not staring this because I didn't get far enough to do so. Why didn't I get far enough? Because of the examples below and others that made me cringe.
MC talking about himself: (** emphasis** mine)
"It was a sentiment he understood intimately, **as an autistic**, and the guardian of one."
Another MC talking about the character that is autistic:
"**The young autistic** had always struck him as overly cautious."
"Fie had learnt from watching the brothers that **autistics** tended to be incredibly protective of their personal space."
All of these statements, and others that are similar are making me uncomfortable.
MC talking about himself: (** emphasis** mine)
"It was a sentiment he understood intimately, **as an autistic**, and the guardian of one."
Another MC talking about the character that is autistic:
"**The young autistic** had always struck him as overly cautious."
"Fie had learnt from watching the brothers that **autistics** tended to be incredibly protective of their personal space."
All of these statements, and others that are similar are making me uncomfortable.
February 23, 2019
When started the book I wasn't too sure if I was liking it too much. I accepted to read this ARC without reading the blurb, just accepting that i enjoyed MM romance, even more MMM romance.
When started the book I wasn't too sure if I was liking it too much. I was having a hard time wrapping my mind around what 2 alpha males had in common with someonebwith autism. As I kept reading I began to enjoy the storyline, their story, their histories and their relationship. More of Davet's personality emerged as well as his humor and the fact he was high functioning in terms with his autism. He along with his 2 partner's understood his limitations in social situations and they dealt well it with Davet's best interest in mind always. He also expressed himself very well and succintly when needed. Their relationship made sense when all this put together and as long as they are happy who is anyone to judge what love looks like? No one, that's who!
When started the book I wasn't too sure if I was liking it too much. I was having a hard time wrapping my mind around what 2 alpha males had in common with someonebwith autism. As I kept reading I began to enjoy the storyline, their story, their histories and their relationship. More of Davet's personality emerged as well as his humor and the fact he was high functioning in terms with his autism. He along with his 2 partner's understood his limitations in social situations and they dealt well it with Davet's best interest in mind always. He also expressed himself very well and succintly when needed. Their relationship made sense when all this put together and as long as they are happy who is anyone to judge what love looks like? No one, that's who!
February 28, 2019
Dahlia has done it again. I love her book so much. I don’t even bother reading the synopsis anymore I just pick them up. This is a M/M/M book so if that’s not something you’re okay with this book isn’t for you. This book starts out on a low note but winds up bringing all three characters together. Davet is autistic and owns the local coffee shop, Fie is a scared military vet who now makes mugs, and Sid was in the military with Fie and is now a local police officer. All three have their own issues and damages but they are great individually and even better together. While not everyone may accept a trio of three males everyone that is close to and cares about these men are supportive of their relationship. This book is a bit emotional at times and funny at others. I just come up with the words to say how great this book is. I highly recommend it and can’t wait for Dahlia’s next book.
February 28, 2019
Emotional and engaging story
I enjoyed Fie, Sid and Davet as they each had different personalities. I liked how each character got their chance to speak. Getting to know and understand them helped a lot with watching each one battle their own personal issues and then overcome them. This wasn’t just about sex for the three men, but about friendship and then becoming lovers. The men really are better together.
This was about loss and how to learn to live and even love after. The author does a great job with details. This is an angsty, bit of humor and emotional story.
I enjoyed Fie, Sid and Davet as they each had different personalities. I liked how each character got their chance to speak. Getting to know and understand them helped a lot with watching each one battle their own personal issues and then overcome them. This wasn’t just about sex for the three men, but about friendship and then becoming lovers. The men really are better together.
This was about loss and how to learn to live and even love after. The author does a great job with details. This is an angsty, bit of humor and emotional story.
March 2, 2019
I enjoyed this emotional read. A story of 3 friends wanting to be more and just starting to think about it when tragedy strikes. Fie and Sid are great in their support of autistic Davet. Both with his autism and helping him cope with his grief.
I really enjoyed the Britishness of it. The language was great and came off as real and authentic to me. I loved the Banter between Fie and Sid. There were quite a few laugh out load moments.
A sweet story about growth, family and the bumpy road to love.
I really enjoyed the Britishness of it. The language was great and came off as real and authentic to me. I loved the Banter between Fie and Sid. There were quite a few laugh out load moments.
A sweet story about growth, family and the bumpy road to love.
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