Branch McGuireHot, arrogant and life of the party … high-profile status. The only nod to my roots is my annual trip for a celebrity spotlight fix, but when I receive a call that forces an impromptu return home, everything I left behind comes barreling to the surface.
Ragan Prescott
Determined, resilient and born of a drug addict …
From the outside, my life was that of a free-spirited girl who grew up in a normal household, yet nothing normal happened behind the doors of a house I came to hate.
Breaking away from the family dysfunction, I embark upon the life I’ve always wanted in Blue Ridge. But when I fall prey to the charms of a silver-tongued devil, it becomes a life I have to escape.
Will a small town hero be my only chance at survival? Will my broken soul mend his?
Can our Shattered Beginnings become the fragile pieces from which love is made?
**Book One of the No Longer Broken Duet.
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Amazing Story & NarrationHeartfelt & Emotional
Shattered Beginnings
No Longer Broken Duet, Book 1
By: Lilly Wilde
Narrated by: Melissa Moran, Aaron Shedlock
“Shattered Beginnings” is a well written and well told story that takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride, shattering my heart into to a million pieces. I sure hope the 2nd book puts those pieces back together. The storylines are realistic and not only to they grab your attention and captivates it but they grab your heart as well. You can not help but to feel for Ragan, she may be broken but she is a survivor and I do hope beautiful things come her way. Branch McGuire, appears to be a jerk at times but behind that facade is a broken boy with a big heart. He is afraid to come out from behind that facade though, there are huge walls built around that heart. There is so much more I could say about this book but I will only say the most important thing and that is go and either read it or listen to it, I recommend doing both! I am looking forward to “Salvaged Hearts, the 2nd book of “No Longer Broken Duet” I am hoping there will be redemption for each and a happy ending for both. Thank you Lilly Wilde for this great story, you are forgiven for shattering my heart I am an overnight fan!
I listened to the Audible Edition, narrated by the talented Aaron Shedlock and Melissa Moran. they are fabulous voice performers and storytellers. They bring the characters to life giving them heart and attitude. Aaron’s Brick and Melissa’s Ragan were magnificent and spot on. Thank you for an amazing listen.
Shattered Beginnings what is there to say, if you thought Lilly Wilde broke the mold when she brought us the Untouched Series, she has “shattered” it with the highly emotionally charged tale. From the outset, you can feel the damaged suffered by these two characters, personally I don’t know how she does it, I am rung out just from reading *major book hangover*. The opening book of this duet is majorly different from Lilly’s other work. I was stunned by the direction the book took me in, and for me it was so not long enough. Once I started reading I was hooked from chapter 1, crying by chapter 2 and ready to explode by chapter 3. Can you imagine how I felt by the end?
Ragan is so strong and brave. I have to commend her, I don’t think I would have survived like she had, but not without scars that run deep. She is extremely wary of everything and everyone and does not trust easily at all.
Branch is a first class a-hole and he freely admits this. He is emotionally detached. I think this is to protect himself from exposing his vulnerability and be taken advantage of, maybe? He makes no apologies for his behaviour, he does what he likes how he likes.
There are some funny moments between Ragan and Branch. Their interactions are filled with tension and hostility. And there are some adorable moments but you will have to read to know what they are.
If you are a fan of Lilly then you will not be disappointed. give it a chance it is hella good xox
This review is based on the audio version of the book.
Great writing and wonderful narration allow the listener to get deep into the characters of Branch and Ragan in a story of rising above the demons of their pasts. It was a little tough to listen to Ragan’s memories and Branch coming to grips with his childhood but the author eases the listener through it. The only downside is this is part one of two (you know, duet) but I look forward to the rest of this tale. Enjoy!
I have just finished this book and I loved it. The whole book was brilliant could not fault it one bit.
Branch is Hot, arrogant, big head ego but there is a softer side to him that no-one sees except for his brother. He looks after everyone but doesn’t let anyone get close to him because of what has happened to him years ago. He loves his mum and brother that he drops everything to come back to the small town of Blue Ridge that once was called Home for him but it hasn’t been that in ages.
Ragan is a smart, shy girl who has been given the short end of the stick all of her life but when she was forced out of a situation that was not her fault, she see everything in a different light. Now that she is older now and has someone that depends on her for everything she has made a promise to herself that she will not get into another bad situation every again that is until a certain famous NFL Footballer comes into the diner one day and her whole world changes.
Will these two characters get together in the end? If you loved Lilly’s books before then you will love this one. Looking forward for the next book.
Thanks Lilly for another great book that leaves you wanting more and more.
Branch and Ragan are going to take you on a journey filled with every emotion!
Branch is a former high school athlete that is now a rising star in professional ball. He is talented, arrogant and oh so handsome . He seems to have the world at his feet but sometimes all of what we see is not as it appears !!
Ragan she is a strong, persistent woman that has faced so many tragedies and challenges that you wonder how she made it through to the woman she is today ! She appears to have risen from the ashes .
Their story is going to break you . Be ready for s journey filled with every emotion you can experience !! I loved it !!
~~~Michele McMullen ~~~
I was drawn to this story of a football star and a single mom whose past has made them the way that they are today.
Ragan Prescott’s childhood was horrible and it has shaped her life. Ragan ends up in a relationship that is bad for her when something really bad happens for her to finally stand up for herself. We get to find out all about Ragan’s past journey leading up to the current day and her interactions with Branch McQuire.
Branch McQuire has made a name for himself in the football world. He is the best quarterback in the NFL and Branch intends to stay there. Branch’s childhood was horrible too. He wants to escape his hometown but he has to go back to help out the family. We get to find out more about Branch’s past and what made him the man he is today.
Once Branch and Ragan meet, we get to watch them interact with each other. Once they actually get to know each other, they can’t figure out what to do and how to act around the other person. I can’t wait for book 2 to find out what’s in store for Ragan and Branch and will they work through issues from their pasts and move on to a better present and future.
Where to begin is tough as this novel left me thunderstruck. Oh my! Not your typical cookie cutter contemporary sports romance novel. Shattered Beginnings title is so fitting for this gripping edge of your spot read. Ragan Prescott is compelling, resilient, smart, & someone you admire and can’t help but love. Branch McGuire is athletic, cocky, sarcastic, sexy as sin & witty with a sweet side. A deeper side of Branch is brought out as we learn more about his past. Supporting character’s are part of the foundation that helps you understand & get to know Ragan & Branch. One of my fav’s is Ragan’s co-worker Carrie as she was a hoot. The writing is exquisite and although at times difficult to read without tears in your eyes & your heart breaking. The structure is well placed & everything flows through smoothly. An author who can take a difficult subject matter & gives it judicature in the way its portrayed deserves glowing recognition. I am desiring to read Salvage Hearts Book 2 in this duet. I’m sitting here going haywire as I am craving to read it right now. With all its sad moments, we also get witty & humorous moments. Get your tissue box handy as you need it for this tear jerker explosive read.
Heavy on the heart!!
Branch and Ragan, btw I love that name. Like the title Shattered, two people who endured some much but find healing, happiness and strength together. Beautifully written and so heartfelt. I received this from the author as an introduction to her books and I am just in awe. Such a great book. I can not say enough things about this book, I definitely recommend reading it though.
This was my first Lilly Wilde’s book, and won’t be the last! Wow! I love this first book in the No Longer Broken Duet! Branch and Ragan are such great characters! Both are survivor of a heartbreaking past. The story is beautifully written, and I love the back and forth from past to present, that allows us to learn more about them. This was an emotional listen. Now, I can’t wait for the next book in the Duet to know what happens next! The narration was so great! Aaron Shedlock and Melissa Moran did an amazing job with the narration! I received this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily written this review.
This is book 1 it tells the story of Ragan & branch both different life styles. Branch is the town hero he comes into a little diner Ragan is working out. These two have their moments and he wants to help her when he sees her little girl, I can’t wait to read book 2!
I absolutely loved this book. I loved the storyline and the characters. It’s hot and sexy. I couldn’t put the book down and I can’t wait to read book 2. It was an awesome read.
This book is the perfect beginning for this couple. It shows so much background to both of their childhoods so that we can understand where their thoughts are coming from. I am looking forward to seeing how their relationship will progress in the future.
It’s been so long since I’ve read a book from this author and I couldn’t be happier. Her previous books made me dream and freak out at the same time. Each word, each chapter made me feel things and see things from a new angle. And now I’m about to embark on another journey… A duet… Oh boy.
Lilly Wilde is the author I’m talking about and her writing will knock the air out of your lungs. Her writing is hot and wild, sassy but with so much meaning between each chapter.
Shattered Beginnings is her latest release and it’s the first book from the No Longer Broken Duet and tells the stories of Branch and Regan.
Branch is an athlete that knows what he wants and just goes for it. Of course being in the spotlight has its rewards and one night stands are it for him. When he gets a phone call from home he can’t imagine what’s about to happen.
Regan grew up in a dysfunctional family and that left a mark. On the outside she was a sweet girl, always happy but on the inside she was crushed and damaged.
Lord have mercy on me… This book just crushed my heart, my soul…
The plot is exquisite, very well written, super engaging and intense. Each chapter made my heart feel heavier and so tight that I thought I would pass out. The struggles these two endured and still deal with are life altering.
The interation between the characters is beautiful despite all the darkness and drama.
There were parts of the story that I saw myself living it, ready to knock someone out and then there were others that I just wanted to crawl back in bed and cry.
It was an intense reading and I can’t get enough words to describe this book. And now it’s over and I don’t want to wait for the next one. I can’t… I want more and asap.
Lilly what can I say… I’m overwhelmed with this book and I’m super mad for waiting for the next one. I’ll be counting down the days…
****The best part about being interested in reading this book, is that it’s written by one of my favorite authors Ms. Lilly Wilde!****
I haven’t read this book as of yet, but once I get book 2 as well I should have my new Fire Kiddle so I can read both books! I’m hoping that this will be the perfect Christmas/Birthday gifts to myself this year or the beginning of next year to start my 2019 Year off on the right foot! Please send some prayers up on my behalf to “The Book God’s”! Thank you!
I was introduced to Lilly Wilde by a friend from work (Thanks Wanda)! This was the first book I read of Lilly’s and I absolutely loved it! Branch and Ragan both come from broken homes and their past is heartbreaking. Branch is a football star and Ragan is a single mother trying to raise her child in a small town. They say opposites attract and you can feel it with them. They just haven’t figured it out yet! Can’t wait for Book 2 to see what happens with them!
Shattered Beginnings is my introduction to Lilly Wilde reads, and what an emotional read i got. This is a story about being let down by the people who should be there and do their very best for you.
This book really surprised me with all the feels. You can’t help but be drawn into Ragan’s story and it not leave your heart hurting. Then Branch at first i thought he was just a cocky player. But there is just so much more to his story.
Their shattered lives drive them to be stronger and i can’t wait to see where their story goes.
This book is unique and unlike any other book Ive read before. Branch McGuire is a high school jock turned major league athlete who is sexy, arrogant,and the most sought after in his field.
Ragan has been dealt the worst hand at life from a tender young age. She loses trust in those close to her and she has to overcome fear and disappointment, despite her rough start and repeated hurt she perseveres. She finds her reason to live.
At first you think Branch is the typical jock but as the story unfolds you learn more about him, his childhood and his family and what has shaped him into the individual that he is today.
The characters are so real, the emotions are so raw. I cried, I laughed, I was furious, there were certain people I really wanted to hurt. By chapter 2 I was already in tears.
There’s also Ragan’s self talks. She’s HILARIOUS!
The accuracy of expected outcomes is totally realistic. The background and backstories are falling into place. It kept me awake 2 nights in a row. This only happens with Lilly Wilde’s books. I love the direction which the book has taken. I can’t wait for Salvaged Hearts to be released. Keep on writing Lilly Wilde and I’ll keep on reading
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book by this author and the Untouched series is one of my favorite series to date so when I knew she had a new book out, I was more than excited to see where it would lead to. I was very anxious to read it but damn there was no need! I loved it from beginning until end and the emotions I went through were so igniting; I really wanted to throw my kindle at times ‘cuz I was feeling what both Ragan aswell as Branch went through.
I really can’t wait to read the next book in this duet series. One word for this first part : Amazing!
Ragan has been through so many things in her life that she really doesn’t know how she’ll make it through another day and when she’s being kicked out of the only home she’s ever known she doesn’t know what the next day will bring. But there’s a silver lining somewhere and maybe there’s still a way to have a second chance in life. When she meets someone new, she really believes luck is finally heading her way but when something happens she’ll have to find a way to get her life back on track… Branch never really had a great family experience and being the number one football star that he is now, it’s like he hasn’t got a care in the world but it’s not all what it seems like. Now having to try and take care of his mother and brother, he’s trying to do the right thing although it’s not easy…
When Branch and Ragan meet there’s a spark between them but both have broken pasts. Will they break away from it ?…
Shattered Beginnings was my first book by Lilly Wilde and I was blown away by the intensity and depth of emotion that I undertook as the story unfolded. I won’t bore you by attempting to rewrite the synopsis for the book, I am not an author and couldn’t even dream of writing a better one than she provides. It’s important to note though that three sentences sold me on the desire to read Shattered Beginnings initially:
Will a small town hero be my only chance at survival?
Will my broken soul mend his?
Can our Shattered Beginnings become the fragile pieces from which love is made?
After reading this outstanding story, I was left completely flabbergasted by so much, I literally struggled for words to write a review that would do Shattered Beginnings justice. In the end, there is truly no way my review could. Lilly Wilde is a skilled craftsman at building the story brick by brick. She showed me remarkable dexterity by layering her characters POV’s and pasts to add emphasis to the angst of her tale and the characters progressions. Truly, I was stunned! Ragan is one of the strongest heroines I have read in a while, her perseverance remarkable. She is a survivor who I was literally in tears as I read her past. At first, Branch was a hero who I actually greatly disliked… to the point that I wasn’t sure I could finish the story if he continued as he began. But the story had me wound tight and I couldn’t put it down so I kept reading and found that he was actually very much a hero after my heart… Lilly Wilde unraveled these characters… she took apart their layers and they became unfathomably real. And the fact that she accomplished this without revealing key plot details and twists quite literally left me shocked! These characters were every bit as shattered by their pasts as the title portrayed and I have no doubt that you will feel an intense connection with them by the conclusion of this first book, much as I did. You will laugh, cry, shake your head and your heart will ache tremendously at the repeated beatings Branch and Ragan took as they became the characters the story defined as broken…
As a reader, I often go into stories knowing very little about the book intentionally so I don’t cloud my judgement. Therefore, when I started reading Shattered Beginnings, I wasn’t aware that this story was actually book one of a duet. I was a little unprepared for the story to end as it did… yet, even with the soft cliffhanger – which I would normally hate! – I can give this story no less than 5-stars. I did wonder why the main characters, Branch and Ragan, were taking so long to progress into more than the frenemies that they were… but I have read too many books where the characters are not together until the last few pages to stress over the percentage of the book that they spend building up to that allusive “more than” they began. Shattered Beginnings is a sports romance heavy in angst and backstory of its main characters. How they became shattered was a critical and significant part of this story and I think Lilly Wilde proved that by building a story that spans multiple books instead of wrapping it up in one neat little package and likely not doing her character’s the service their story deserved. I get the impression that Branch and Ragan’s story is really only just beginning, and their HEA will be hard won in the end as you will agree I am sure.
I am anxious to read more of Lilly’s work now that I have read this story as I was so consumed with this first book I’ve read by her. If I hadn’t been living under a rock I’m sure that I would have been stalking this author sooner. Nevertheless, I found that I will be happily consuming a six-book series by her as soon as time permits. I am unsure of the expected release date for the second book, Salvaged Hearts, in the No Longer Broken Duet but I can tell you I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion to Branch and Ragan’s story and plan to up my social stalking of Lilly Wilde to find out as soon as possible!