Broken Ties received 5 stars from Readers’ Favorite, one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet that  recognize exceptional products from exceptional independent authors.

The Literary Titan Gold Award is bestowed on books that we found to be perfect in their delivery of original content, utilizing fresh themes to convey innovative ideas, and deftly uses elegant prose to transform words into expertly written literature.

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Reviewed by Literary Titan – 5 stars

Broken Ties, the second installment in the Family Ties Series by Jansen Schmidt, presents a compelling narrative in the romance genre. The novel centers around Bailey Philipelli, a character grappling with a series of unfortunate events as she navigates through themes of love, betrayal, and healing. Bailey, the protagonist, is at a pivotal moment in her life, struggling with the echoes of past betrayals and yearning to carve out a new path for herself. Her story unfolds dramatically as she flees Twisted Fork just days before her wedding. With a purse of stolen money from her former fiancé, a police officer, Bailey’s journey of self-discovery begins. Her van becomes more than a vehicle; it’s her sanctuary on an uncertain path. Her travels unexpectedly bring her to Wyoming, where she is forced to confront the repercussions of her past decisions. In Wyoming, Bailey finds herself torn between the unwelcome advances of her boss and the genuine affection of Colton Kintala, a man of simpler means. This conflict underscores the central dilemma of the story: whether to settle amidst the chaos of Wyoming or to continue seeking a new beginning.

Jansen Schmidt excels in weaving a narrative that not only delves into the thrilling aspects of Bailey’s escape and romantic entanglements but also addresses the serious issue of domestic violence. Through Bailey’s eyes, the story reveals the psychological impacts of such trauma, including feelings of worthlessness, diminished self-esteem, and a distorted acceptance of what is abnormal. This backdrop of suspenseful romance allows the reader to engage deeply with the characters and their evolving dynamics. A poignant element of Broken Ties is its exploration of the healing process. The novel thoughtfully illustrates that recovering from emotional scars and rebuilding trust is a gradual journey. Schmidt’s portrayal of characters who are realistically flawed in their quest for love adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative. Their imperfections serve to highlight the beauty and complexity of human relationships.

Broken Ties is a testament to Jansen Schmidt’s prowess in the realm of romance literature. It captivates readers with its rich imagery, nuanced character development, and a thoughtful exploration of challenging themes, wrapped in an engaging and well-crafted story.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite – 5-stars

Broken Ties is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres, and is the second novel in the Family Ties series. The work is best suited to mature readers owing to explicit language and scenes of sex and violence. Penned by author Jansen Schmidt, this compelling sequel to The Ties That Bind unravels the aftermath of Bailey’s broken engagement. Vowing to transform her luck, Bailey embarks on a journey of self-discovery with her ex-fiancé’s money in hand. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the story navigates Bailey’s emotional rollercoaster as she confronts the mysterious Colton, haunted by his past.

Author Jansen Schmidt has lovingly crafted a powerful tale of love, trust, and healing, exploring the profound impact of betrayal on two wounded souls with a keen sense of emotional resonance and personal growth. The characters, Bailey and Colton, are intricately developed, each carrying scars from their pasts that strongly impact their attitudes, reservations, and actions. The narrative delves into their individual struggles with a rare brand of honesty but also explores the possibility of love and redemption in a realistic way that’s never idealized or romanticized too much. The strong atmospheric choices in the language used to describe the setting add a layer of charm to the story, creating a backdrop that mirrors the characters’ emotional journey from brokenness to healing beautifully. Schmidt delivers a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged and invested in the characters’ quest for love and restoration. Overall, I would certainly recommend Broken Ties as a poignant experience, filled with emotional depth and memorable moments of realistic drama.