Review of Broken Beginnings: Citrus Cove, Book 1 by Clio Evans
I stumbled across Broken Beginnings while searching for a new romance to dive into, and I couldn’t resist its tantalizing premise. A high-heat small-town romance entwined with suspense? Yes, please! Clio Evans, a name that was new to me but instantly catchy, had written a story that promised both spice and tension—a combination I was eager to explore.
In Broken Beginnings, we meet Haley, a woman haunted by a traumatic event that sends her scurrying back to Citrus Cove, the town she’d vowed never to return to. The moment she witnesses a murder, everything changes. It’s not just her life at stake; it’s her past haunting her in the form of Cameron Harlow—her old high school bully. What starts as a story of love mingled with danger develops into a captivating narrative showcasing how past wounds can evolve into second chances.
Evans has crafted characters that are deeply relatable and multi-dimensional. Haley is fierce and independent, embodying the strength of someone who’s overcome her past. Then there’s Cameron—a complex character whose boyish charm and heated longing for redemption make him an enticing love interest. The chemistry between the two is electric, filled with witty banter and simmering tension. I found myself rooting for their connection, even as it was steeped in old grudges and palpable history.
What truly stood out to me was Evans’ ability to weave suspense into the romance seamlessly. The pacing kept me on my toes—just when I thought I had the plot figured out, an unexpected twist would emerge that threw me for a loop. The mysterious undertones added depth, making me not just invested in the romance but also in the thriller aspect of the story. I could almost hear the Southern accent in Cameron’s voice as he pined for Haley, calling her “sunshine.”
As I read through the pages, some particularly memorable quotes struck me—like when Cameron confesses, “I want you like a garden wants the sun.” There’s something profoundly poetic in that longing, a reminder of how love can flourish even in difficult circumstances.
However, while I absolutely enjoyed the journey Clio Evans took me on, I did feel that certain grammar inconsistencies and typographical errors slightly broke the immersion. Yet, the vibrant storytelling and engaging characters more than compensated for these minor hiccups.
I wholeheartedly recommend Broken Beginnings to anyone who enjoys a spicy small-town romance infused with suspense. If you’re a fan of second-chance love stories with a hint of mystery, this book will surely satiate your cravings. Evans’ portrayal of love, redemption, and healing feels pertinent in today’s world, making it more than just an entertaining read—it’s a story that resonates on a deeper level.
Overall, Broken Beginnings left me with a warm glow, eager to see what Clio Evans has in store for us next. I’m thrilled to hear this is just the beginning of a series, and I can’t wait to delve into more adventures in Citrus Cove. 🌸✨
You can find Broken Beginnings: Citrus Cove, Book 1 here >>