A review by angelahayes
Beautifully Broken by Laura Lee

5.0

5 Stars

Beautifully Broken by Laura Lee is a contemporary Romance that depicts a relationship that most would consider forbidden- a student/teacher relationship. Now normally, in the real world- I would be the first to say, “no way, that’s not right.” But this is fantasy and the subject happens to one of my guilty pleasures. This deliciously wicked story has a twist, a plausible excuse if you will- both characters are of legal age; the teacher isn’t trying to take advantage of a vulnerable and innocent student; they meet outside of the school setting, not knowing ages or occupations; and she looks a lot older than she is.
Katherine Kennedy (Kat/Red) has endured a lot for someone her age. She is a high school senior who dreams of attending college far away from this small town. Her mother is a drug addicted hooker and Kat has no idea who her father is.
Kat has been in and out of the foster care system since she was very young. She has had a very difficult life; her only escape is the alcohol and sex she uses to numb the pain of the memories that torment her- even if it’s only a temporary reprieve.
Celebrating her 18th birthday- Kat meets Gavin Cooper (Sparkles/ Mr. Cooper), who has recently moved to town. He has the most gorgeous turquoise eyes she’s ever seen, full lips, broad shoulders and is ruggedly handsome.
Gavin is curious- he wants to know more about her, then there’s the sexually charged energy that seems to sizzle between them that just can’t be ignored. Their attraction is so primal and completely overwhelming.
Kat has rules- no names, no personal information and absolutely no sleepovers. They spend the night together and experience the most passionate and fulfilling sex of their lives. But, when he wakes in the morning, she is gone.
Not long after, they both receive the shock of their lives- when Kat walks into her first class for the year, to find Gavin is her new teacher. Now, the story really gets interesting! But, no spoilers- you will have to read it and find out what happens. You really won’t regret it!
Will they be able to walk away from what they shared and just be student and teacher? What does the future have in store for them? When Gavin discovers her secrets, will it draw them together or drive them apart? There are so many obstacles to overcome, can they conquer them, or will the obstacles prove to be insurmountable?
Ms. Lee has written a wonderful, heartfelt story- with an amazing amount of depth and a whole lot of heart. I was so taken with this book, completely absorbed by it and emotionally invested in the characters and the story. I didn’t just want to read the story, I wanted to absorb it. Every. Single. Word.
There are scenes in this book that could be considered triggers for some readers. The story does touch on sensitive topics that are part of the backstory. But they are handled sensitively and respectfully.
I loved Gavin; what a man! He is perfect- so caring, considerate, charming and kind; a fantastic lover; a real all round nice guy; and a wonderful teacher! What he does for Kat- how he helps her heal and realise her self-worth! Drool!! I fell in love with him while reading this book. His dirty talk- is soooo sexy!
I was heartbroken for Kat and what she has had to endure! Her mother sure wouldn’t win any parenting awards. Kat is a true survivor who is so strong and determined. She is witty, smart, sassy and completely sexy. The chemistry between Gavin and her, is off the charts. You can almost hear the electricity sparking and sizzling, as it charges between them. The sex scenes are explicit, quite graphic and damn HOT!!! I’m pretty sure that I may have moaned a little, in parts of the story.
This book is a standalone and ends with a H.E.A. - Ms. Lee wrapped up the story beautifully- the ending was wonderful!
I am delighted that this book and I found each other! It is one of my top reads for 2016, actually, one of my top reads- ever!! Never having read Ms. Lee’s work before, I can say without any doubt- that I will be reading everything she produces.

Thank-you so much, Ms. Lee!