Bent Not Broken by Julia Goda

9:00 am 28 June 2015

Bent Not Broken: A Cedar Creek Novel - Julia Goda

Book – Bent Not Broken (Cedar Creek #1)

Author – Julia Goda

Publication Date –April 17, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Life has taught Ivey Jones early on that with trust come pain and betrayal. Out of survival she has created walls around her to keep anyone from getting too close. Though she lives in her dream house in the Rocky Mountains and loves being the owner of the town's quirky little bookstore Serendipity, her life is narrow and governed by strict rules that she never deviates from…until Cal Bennett enters her life.

For the past nine years Calvin “Cal” Bennett has stayed away from Ivey, thinking she deserved better than to be saddled with a single dad who has never been good at relationships. Until a few chance encounters show him what he’s been missing and he can’t stay away any longer.

Little does he know he’s got a fight on his hands that he might not be equipped to win. Shadows from Ivey's past lurk in the dark, ready to strike and bring her low once and for all. But Cal swears he will do whatever it takes to break through that wall of steel to win Ivey’s heart and keep her safe.

My Thoughts - Story
The first thing I have to share is that as soon as conversations started between Ivey and Cal, I felt like I was transported into a Kristen Ashley book. Not the story or writing style, just the “Alpha” male who uses the fewest possible words and the possessive words.

There were a few times I did find the story dragging but otherwise this was a cute book with good characters – especially Cal and his relationship with his son.

Also, the ending was a bit over the top and seemed rushed with the angst that happens to Ivey.

Re-Cap
Ivey finds Cedar Creek after running from an abusive past but keeps her past a secret from everyone around her. She doesn’t get too close to anyone until Cal forces his way into her life.

Cal chases and Ivey keeps shooting him down ---- but Ivey connects with Cal’s son and between the two guys…Ivey finally relents and tries to open her heart again.

Reason for Reading – Blog Tour
Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3 out of 5 Stars