What do you think?
Rate this book
Broken Compass
Charlie the fun one. Charlie the cute one. Charlie the lost one.
When Charlie realizes it’s time to find the right path in her life, she quits her job and buys a one-way ticket out of the country. She intended to focus on herself, heal her heart, and find where she belongs. The last thing she expected was to open the door of her temporary residence to find the man she had a one-night stand with. And he doesn’t look happy to see her.
Miles is a man who is used to having his life together, but as his world has already been torn apart, he’s not ready to try again. Charlie is tired of being lost and Miles is tired of putting his heart into everything. When Charlie’s light becomes too tempting for Miles, he discovers that he doesn’t mind following her around London.
They both know Charlie’s time in London is nearing an end.
Will Miles be brave enough to ask her to stay?
Will Charlie be able to free herself from the guilt of her past, or will she say goodbye to him knowing that she’s leaving a part of her heart behind?
Broken Compass contains themes suitable for readers aged 18 and over. This book contains subject matter that may be sensitive or triggering for some.
When Charlie realizes it’s time to find the right path in her life, she quits her job and buys a one-way ticket out of the country. She intended to focus on herself, heal her heart, and find where she belongs. The last thing she expected was to open the door of her temporary residence to find the man she had a one-night stand with. And he doesn’t look happy to see her.
Miles is a man who is used to having his life together, but as his world has already been torn apart, he’s not ready to try again. Charlie is tired of being lost and Miles is tired of putting his heart into everything. When Charlie’s light becomes too tempting for Miles, he discovers that he doesn’t mind following her around London.
They both know Charlie’s time in London is nearing an end.
Will Miles be brave enough to ask her to stay?
Will Charlie be able to free herself from the guilt of her past, or will she say goodbye to him knowing that she’s leaving a part of her heart behind?
Broken Compass contains themes suitable for readers aged 18 and over. This book contains subject matter that may be sensitive or triggering for some.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2023
About the author
Hilary Anne
2 books17 followersHilary Anne lives in Illinois with her two children and two cats. A few years ago, she was wondering what she should do with her life, changed her career path, and fell into the rabbit hole of reading spicy romance novels of all varieties. When her friends and family told her she should write her own book, she laughed in their faces - doubting it was ever possible. Until one random day, she had a story idea and felt the need to make it come to life. Now she feels like she might have found her place in the world. She still enjoys reading, and when she’s not running her kids around to their practices or writing, you can find her with a book in hand.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 1, 2024
If you like repeated trauma, friends with benefits where no one admits their true feelings, miscommunication, and having your heart ripped out this may be for you.
This was one of my 12 book recommendations by 12 book friends for 2024. I saw it took place in London and if you don’t know this about me already, I love all things British so I was optimistic…
The prologue set the tone and although there were parts I enjoyed in the middle of the book, the overall feelings I felt while reading was frustration, annoyance, and stress. That’s not my jam.
I probably could’ve gotten over all my issues or at least talked myself into understanding the authors choices, but at 84% she lost me. Completely. The whole book the FMC was dealing with guilt and feeling responsible for her parents death at 18, and now as a 29 year old adult she was just starting to heal and forgive herself WHEN THE SAME FUCKING THING HAPPENS. Someone dies and the FMC feels responsible. GTFO.
I rage read from 84% to the end. I had hope the author would make it up to me for that bullshit, but there was still miscommunication happening until 98%! TF?! Not an enjoyable read.
This was one of my 12 book recommendations by 12 book friends for 2024. I saw it took place in London and if you don’t know this about me already, I love all things British so I was optimistic…
The prologue set the tone and although there were parts I enjoyed in the middle of the book, the overall feelings I felt while reading was frustration, annoyance, and stress. That’s not my jam.
I probably could’ve gotten over all my issues or at least talked myself into understanding the authors choices, but at 84% she lost me. Completely. The whole book the FMC was dealing with guilt and feeling responsible for her parents death at 18, and now as a 29 year old adult she was just starting to heal and forgive herself WHEN THE SAME FUCKING THING HAPPENS. Someone dies and the FMC feels responsible. GTFO.
I rage read from 84% to the end. I had hope the author would make it up to me for that bullshit, but there was still miscommunication happening until 98%! TF?! Not an enjoyable read.
May 22, 2023
~ Grumpy/Sunshine
~ Daul POV
~ Force proximity
✨My Thoughts ✨
Well dang, this book was fantastic. I started reading and couldn't stop. I absolutely love the FMC, Charlie. Her story is full of strength and growth. Miles, the MMC, was the best grump. I loved reading his moments when he was alone and his thoughts. The spice in this book was fantastic. I enjoyed all of the funny moments too. I didn't expect to get super emotional with this book. Was I up at 10pm crying? Yes I was but it was worth it. I swear this book is worth the emotional journey. This book really deserves so much hype.
Recommend for 18+. Please check TW before reading. I really can't recommend this one enough.
✨ I want to give a huge thank you to Hilary for an ARC of Broken Compass. These are my own true thoughts ✨
~ Daul POV
~ Force proximity
✨My Thoughts ✨
Well dang, this book was fantastic. I started reading and couldn't stop. I absolutely love the FMC, Charlie. Her story is full of strength and growth. Miles, the MMC, was the best grump. I loved reading his moments when he was alone and his thoughts. The spice in this book was fantastic. I enjoyed all of the funny moments too. I didn't expect to get super emotional with this book. Was I up at 10pm crying? Yes I was but it was worth it. I swear this book is worth the emotional journey. This book really deserves so much hype.
Recommend for 18+. Please check TW before reading. I really can't recommend this one enough.
✨ I want to give a huge thank you to Hilary for an ARC of Broken Compass. These are my own true thoughts ✨
May 13, 2023
Okay, first I just gotta start by saying I’m so happy this arc sign up randomly appeared for me. The synopsis drew me in, and I’m so so happy I took the chance and applied. With that being said, I’m 100% more thankful that Hillary Anne gave me the chance to read this book early. I know I’m late with posting this review, and I hope she forgive me - but, what a masterpiece.
When I tell you my heart was absolutely BREAKING for so much of this, you need to believe me. A love story that hurts your heart one second, and then makes you heart whole in the next. Once I started reading, it was so hard to stop. If I wasn’t purely exhausted last night, I would’ve finished it in one sitting.
Miles, Miles, Miles. There are a million words I could use to describe how I’m feeling right now, but I can’t actually think of any. You and Charlie were meant to be. Magnets drawn to each other. Your souls knew that y’all needed each other, and the stars aligned so that you found one another. I am so in love with your love, it’s ridiculous.
Charlie, I forgive you but you made my lights go out too and I’m still upset about it. You did what was best for you, and for Miles, but I just wish y’all could’ve done it together. Y’all are a force to be reckoned with, and nothing is gonna tear y’all apart.
Absolutely, obsessed, forever recommended by me. Please read it and tell me all your thoughts. I need to know what y’all think about Charlie and Miles.
When I tell you my heart was absolutely BREAKING for so much of this, you need to believe me. A love story that hurts your heart one second, and then makes you heart whole in the next. Once I started reading, it was so hard to stop. If I wasn’t purely exhausted last night, I would’ve finished it in one sitting.
Miles, Miles, Miles. There are a million words I could use to describe how I’m feeling right now, but I can’t actually think of any. You and Charlie were meant to be. Magnets drawn to each other. Your souls knew that y’all needed each other, and the stars aligned so that you found one another. I am so in love with your love, it’s ridiculous.
Charlie, I forgive you but you made my lights go out too and I’m still upset about it. You did what was best for you, and for Miles, but I just wish y’all could’ve done it together. Y’all are a force to be reckoned with, and nothing is gonna tear y’all apart.
Absolutely, obsessed, forever recommended by me. Please read it and tell me all your thoughts. I need to know what y’all think about Charlie and Miles.
May 11, 2023
Broken Compass | Hilary Anne: ARC review 🧭
what a beautiful story of learning to let go of the past! 🤍
tragic circumstances send Charlotte/Charlie on a solo journey abroad, chasing her dreams and capturing the beauty along the way through her photos. a one night stand clashes with twist of fate where Charlie finds herself living in the guest cottage of the older, broody, handsome Miles. but Miles has his own baggage. there’s a constant tug-of-war of emotions at play because he’s reluctant to fall and she’s reluctant to stay. but as forced proximity and undeniable attraction does, the two can’t avoid crashing into each others orbits, inevitably falling hard for one another. to him, she’s the bright star in the midst of his darkest season of life. prepare for angst and swoon and even some tears at the end. this one has heart, y’all! 🫶🏻
tropes:
• Contemporary rom
• Age gap
• One night stand
• Forced proximity
• Reluctant to fall
• Spicy!
what a beautiful story of learning to let go of the past! 🤍
tragic circumstances send Charlotte/Charlie on a solo journey abroad, chasing her dreams and capturing the beauty along the way through her photos. a one night stand clashes with twist of fate where Charlie finds herself living in the guest cottage of the older, broody, handsome Miles. but Miles has his own baggage. there’s a constant tug-of-war of emotions at play because he’s reluctant to fall and she’s reluctant to stay. but as forced proximity and undeniable attraction does, the two can’t avoid crashing into each others orbits, inevitably falling hard for one another. to him, she’s the bright star in the midst of his darkest season of life. prepare for angst and swoon and even some tears at the end. this one has heart, y’all! 🫶🏻
tropes:
• Contemporary rom
• Age gap
• One night stand
• Forced proximity
• Reluctant to fall
• Spicy!
May 31, 2023
I loved this book. I really felt for Charlie in her struggle to forgive herself and let herself be happy. It made me laugh and cry. The story was cute, and I loved the chemistry between them, their family and friends.
It was recommended to me from a friend who was an arc reader and Im so glad she did. ❤️❤️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
It was recommended to me from a friend who was an arc reader and Im so glad she did. ❤️❤️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
August 3, 2024
Enjoyable book. Bring the tissues because this book might make you cry. I loved Miles & Charlotte. And all the side characters as well. Dual POV. First person. Lots of spice.
May 13, 2023
I love love lovity love this lovely couple and lovely side characters. Count how many times I said love and multiply it by infinity. Bro? "Broken Compass" is all what you need to feel your heart buzzing a thousand miles per milisecond and for you to find yourself curled into a bawl, crying your damn heart and eyes out. Charlotte, a beautiful red-head, goes through a traumatic expreience in her lifetime which finally shapes her to be the woman her closest family members had envisioned her as. A traveller. She finds love in travelling and photography when amidst her tours, she arrives in London. One night in the new club, Ambrosia, and her eyes find a pair of dark, thunderous, beautiful blue-gray eyes of the most perfect man humankind could ever witness on the face of thid earth. She finds herself getting pulled to him as much as he finds himself being pulled to her as well.
One night. They both promise each other one night. Full of love, passion, hot dripping sex and nothing but kisses and love. But will they be able to stay away from ach other after that one night? Can Charlotte forget Mile's touch forever after they part their ways? Can Miles control his heart who seems to gallop after the beautiful red heart that shines light into his dark world, illuminating his damaged heart. What happens when both, living in the same hotel, leave it, hoping to never run into each other, and decide to live somewhere else, where they are literally face to face. What happenes when their love blooms enough to make the broody hot-headed Miles turn into the lovesick puppy that was forever hidden inside him. What happens when their love reaches a peak just to be thrown flat face on the ground.
And who pays the heaviest price of that fall?
Personally? I loved this book. Even though, it DOES have a HEA, but this book managed to make me skip university to read it. The love, the explanation, thw emotions, the plot, the story, the emotions, the character development and everything ranging from you-name-it-and-it-has-it, this book was a phenomenal read. I cannot stress enough how much you NEED to read this book if you love a story which even being fictional, seems real. Hitting you right in the feels. Even as some losses, some hurdles, some difficulty comes along, I would never trade this book for anything else.
Thank you Hillary for providing me with an arc of your beautiful hardwork. Consider me as your full time reader. I loved each and every line, every scene and every sentence that you wrote. And rest assured, the author that makes you cry is the author that did their work. Well done, Hillary!
——🖤💞🖤💞🖤——
“Why do I want you so fucking badly?”
-----
“You’re so fucking beautiful.”
-----
“I can’t possibly be near you and not be able to feel you under my touch. Whenever you’re around, all I can bloody think about is how you sound when you’re taking all of me. Hell, even when you aren’t around, you’re all I fucking think about.”
---
“Are you done?” he asks. I nod and he says, “Good, because I’m going to kiss you now.”
----
“Fuck, Charlotte. I could get addicted to kissing you.” His
----
“Charlotte,” he rasps. “You’re stunning.”
----
you’re mine and only mine.”
----
For however long I’m here, I’m his.
----
“Say it again,” he demands.
“I’m yours,” I offer.
His chest growls with approval and then he says the words that have a direct line to my core. “Good girl.”
-----
“I don’t bloody care. Let them fucking hear you scream for me.”
----
“Listen to you scream for me, letting anyone who can hear you know exactly who you belong to.”
-----
“You’re mine, Charlotte. Every other bloke out there would be a fool to think I’d ever let you go. Mine"
----
“I’d never forget. I’m pretty sure you’re ingrained in my soul.”
----
A billion stars are shining in the sky above us, but none of them are nearly as bright as her.
----
“Anything for you, little star.”
----
“If you want me there, I’ll be there.”
---
“When you picture the future, what do you see?”
“You.”
----
“I love you, Charlotte, Until the end of time, and even after that, I will love you.”
---
“I love you, Miles."
---
"I’m all in, Charlotte. I want you here in my life every single day. Or if I must, I’ll come to the states. I’ll follow you anywhere, as long as I get to call you mine. Please say that you’re mine again.”
One night. They both promise each other one night. Full of love, passion, hot dripping sex and nothing but kisses and love. But will they be able to stay away from ach other after that one night? Can Charlotte forget Mile's touch forever after they part their ways? Can Miles control his heart who seems to gallop after the beautiful red heart that shines light into his dark world, illuminating his damaged heart. What happens when both, living in the same hotel, leave it, hoping to never run into each other, and decide to live somewhere else, where they are literally face to face. What happenes when their love blooms enough to make the broody hot-headed Miles turn into the lovesick puppy that was forever hidden inside him. What happens when their love reaches a peak just to be thrown flat face on the ground.
And who pays the heaviest price of that fall?
Personally? I loved this book. Even though, it DOES have a HEA, but this book managed to make me skip university to read it. The love, the explanation, thw emotions, the plot, the story, the emotions, the character development and everything ranging from you-name-it-and-it-has-it, this book was a phenomenal read. I cannot stress enough how much you NEED to read this book if you love a story which even being fictional, seems real. Hitting you right in the feels. Even as some losses, some hurdles, some difficulty comes along, I would never trade this book for anything else.
Thank you Hillary for providing me with an arc of your beautiful hardwork. Consider me as your full time reader. I loved each and every line, every scene and every sentence that you wrote. And rest assured, the author that makes you cry is the author that did their work. Well done, Hillary!
——🖤💞🖤💞🖤——
“Why do I want you so fucking badly?”
-----
“You’re so fucking beautiful.”
-----
“I can’t possibly be near you and not be able to feel you under my touch. Whenever you’re around, all I can bloody think about is how you sound when you’re taking all of me. Hell, even when you aren’t around, you’re all I fucking think about.”
---
“Are you done?” he asks. I nod and he says, “Good, because I’m going to kiss you now.”
----
“Fuck, Charlotte. I could get addicted to kissing you.” His
----
“Charlotte,” he rasps. “You’re stunning.”
----
you’re mine and only mine.”
----
For however long I’m here, I’m his.
----
“Say it again,” he demands.
“I’m yours,” I offer.
His chest growls with approval and then he says the words that have a direct line to my core. “Good girl.”
-----
“I don’t bloody care. Let them fucking hear you scream for me.”
----
“Listen to you scream for me, letting anyone who can hear you know exactly who you belong to.”
-----
“You’re mine, Charlotte. Every other bloke out there would be a fool to think I’d ever let you go. Mine"
----
“I’d never forget. I’m pretty sure you’re ingrained in my soul.”
----
A billion stars are shining in the sky above us, but none of them are nearly as bright as her.
----
“Anything for you, little star.”
----
“If you want me there, I’ll be there.”
---
“When you picture the future, what do you see?”
“You.”
----
“I love you, Charlotte, Until the end of time, and even after that, I will love you.”
---
“I love you, Miles."
---
"I’m all in, Charlotte. I want you here in my life every single day. Or if I must, I’ll come to the states. I’ll follow you anywhere, as long as I get to call you mine. Please say that you’re mine again.”
May 14, 2023
Star rating: 4/5
Spice rating: 4/5
You guys should’ve seen me while I was reading this book. I mean… I literally couldn’t hide any of my reactions. There was shifting. There was squealing. There was smiling. There was crying. I mean think of any reaction to a book you’ve had and I probably did it for this one.
I literally devoured over 80% of Broken Compass in one sitting. I stayed up all night to finish it. Did I need the sleep? Yes. Did I have a hectic day ahead? Yes. Did I care? No. Why? Well because I simply HAD to keep on reading this book. Nothing else could happen until I completed my read and journey. I am 1000% confident that even if I’d tried to go sleep that it wouldn’t have worked out. There’s no way I would’ve been able to do it knowing I still had more to go with this amazing… and I mean AMAZING book.
Not only did Anne make me go through all the possible emotions known to humankind with this book, but she introduced me to the king that is Miles Taylor. This man IMMEDIATELY became another one of my book boyfriends. There are not enough words out there to describe my love for this very special man. He is one of the sweetest, most honorable, fouled-mouth fictional men I have had the pleasure of meeting. Y’all his freaking mouth had me DYING. How is one expected to remain unaffected after this man opens his mouth? Simple… they’re not. It’s an impossible task to complete.
I could literally go on and on about this book, but I think I’m going to stop here. Wouldn’t want to risk spoiling anything before I give you all the chance to read it, now would I? Because you MUST read this as soon as possible. I will be holding everyone who tells me they’ll read it accountable. I kid you not. Just trust me on this okay?
Lastly, Hilary Anne… where have you been hiding from me to just now be discovering your work? Seriously though. I literally went over to Amazon and added your debut the moment I finished Broken Compass. Well. once I’d calmed down from all the sobbing and emotions you put me through of course, but like I told you before - your book was worth every second, reaction, and missed hours of sleep that I gave it. I’m so excited to see what else you bring into this world. You just know I’ll be hopping on and reading all of your works from here on out. Love you so much!
Spice rating: 4/5
You guys should’ve seen me while I was reading this book. I mean… I literally couldn’t hide any of my reactions. There was shifting. There was squealing. There was smiling. There was crying. I mean think of any reaction to a book you’ve had and I probably did it for this one.
I literally devoured over 80% of Broken Compass in one sitting. I stayed up all night to finish it. Did I need the sleep? Yes. Did I have a hectic day ahead? Yes. Did I care? No. Why? Well because I simply HAD to keep on reading this book. Nothing else could happen until I completed my read and journey. I am 1000% confident that even if I’d tried to go sleep that it wouldn’t have worked out. There’s no way I would’ve been able to do it knowing I still had more to go with this amazing… and I mean AMAZING book.
Not only did Anne make me go through all the possible emotions known to humankind with this book, but she introduced me to the king that is Miles Taylor. This man IMMEDIATELY became another one of my book boyfriends. There are not enough words out there to describe my love for this very special man. He is one of the sweetest, most honorable, fouled-mouth fictional men I have had the pleasure of meeting. Y’all his freaking mouth had me DYING. How is one expected to remain unaffected after this man opens his mouth? Simple… they’re not. It’s an impossible task to complete.
I could literally go on and on about this book, but I think I’m going to stop here. Wouldn’t want to risk spoiling anything before I give you all the chance to read it, now would I? Because you MUST read this as soon as possible. I will be holding everyone who tells me they’ll read it accountable. I kid you not. Just trust me on this okay?
Lastly, Hilary Anne… where have you been hiding from me to just now be discovering your work? Seriously though. I literally went over to Amazon and added your debut the moment I finished Broken Compass. Well. once I’d calmed down from all the sobbing and emotions you put me through of course, but like I told you before - your book was worth every second, reaction, and missed hours of sleep that I gave it. I’m so excited to see what else you bring into this world. You just know I’ll be hopping on and reading all of your works from here on out. Love you so much!
May 10, 2023
Charlie is battling demons from her past, trauma from her teenage years has been holding her back. So she decides to go travelling and vows to stay away from men while she’s at it. That is until one night in London when she meets a mysterious and handsome stranger. They agree to one night only, not even exchanging names, and that’s that . . . Or is it?
Miles is trying to put his life back together, but has he even accepted why it fell apart in the first place? When he spots Charlie across a crowded nightclub he finally feels like he might be able to move on, even if just for one night.
Miles and Charlie can’t stop thinking about each other, and when fate throws them into each others lives again they will both have to work on themselves in order to have each other. Can they do it? And can they do it in time, before Charlie leaves for good?
I loved the relationship between Charlie and Miles, but also the other relationships in the book. There are some great friendships and sibling bonds that I really enjoyed.
This book definitely pulls at the heartstrings and the last third really made me feel emotional. There is some miscommunication (or rather lack of communication) which results in a third act breakup, but we do eventually get a HEA.
This book can be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading Weak Heart by this author first to enhance the reading experience. That is where we are first introduced to Charlie, although the main story is about her best friend Thea. It was really lovely to see Thea’s storyline progress in the background of Broken Compass too.
Miles is trying to put his life back together, but has he even accepted why it fell apart in the first place? When he spots Charlie across a crowded nightclub he finally feels like he might be able to move on, even if just for one night.
Miles and Charlie can’t stop thinking about each other, and when fate throws them into each others lives again they will both have to work on themselves in order to have each other. Can they do it? And can they do it in time, before Charlie leaves for good?
I loved the relationship between Charlie and Miles, but also the other relationships in the book. There are some great friendships and sibling bonds that I really enjoyed.
This book definitely pulls at the heartstrings and the last third really made me feel emotional. There is some miscommunication (or rather lack of communication) which results in a third act breakup, but we do eventually get a HEA.
This book can be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading Weak Heart by this author first to enhance the reading experience. That is where we are first introduced to Charlie, although the main story is about her best friend Thea. It was really lovely to see Thea’s storyline progress in the background of Broken Compass too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2023
Broken Compass
⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
📚 Romance
🎶 You Shook Me All Night Long - AC/DC
One sentence synopsis:
On her gap year around Europe, Charlie stops in London for a few months where she meets Miles and what starts out as a fling quickly becomes something more.
My review:
This one missed the mark for me by a mile. It does have a lot of things I love (forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, expiration date). I think mainly, it was the way it was written/writing style/sentence structure that didn’t do anything for me but it had some other problematic parts as well.
First of all, it kills me when characters have unprotected sex with complete strangers and they go ahead with it because they both said “I’m clean, I promise.” It’s so unbelievably irresponsible it makes me cringe and take the characters less seriously for the rest of the book. If you don’t even know their first name, don’t have unprotected sex with them.
The main male character starts off by still being hung up on his ex wife for the first half of the book and that bothered me a lot. It’s hard for me to accept you’re ready for a new thing if you’re pining over your ex wife for half the book.
I did like that the main female character is very forward so that was new to me and to be honest it was kinda refreshing. So often the female is this demure character so it was nice to have a character that was self assured in making the moves.
This book just wasn’t for me. I personally couldn’t get past some big things. But it’s available on kindle unlimited so if you have that and want to give it a shot, go for it!
✨ebook was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review. ✨
⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
📚 Romance
🎶 You Shook Me All Night Long - AC/DC
One sentence synopsis:
On her gap year around Europe, Charlie stops in London for a few months where she meets Miles and what starts out as a fling quickly becomes something more.
My review:
This one missed the mark for me by a mile. It does have a lot of things I love (forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, expiration date). I think mainly, it was the way it was written/writing style/sentence structure that didn’t do anything for me but it had some other problematic parts as well.
First of all, it kills me when characters have unprotected sex with complete strangers and they go ahead with it because they both said “I’m clean, I promise.” It’s so unbelievably irresponsible it makes me cringe and take the characters less seriously for the rest of the book. If you don’t even know their first name, don’t have unprotected sex with them.
The main male character starts off by still being hung up on his ex wife for the first half of the book and that bothered me a lot. It’s hard for me to accept you’re ready for a new thing if you’re pining over your ex wife for half the book.
I did like that the main female character is very forward so that was new to me and to be honest it was kinda refreshing. So often the female is this demure character so it was nice to have a character that was self assured in making the moves.
This book just wasn’t for me. I personally couldn’t get past some big things. But it’s available on kindle unlimited so if you have that and want to give it a shot, go for it!
✨ebook was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review. ✨
May 24, 2023
ARC Review
BROKEN COMPASS By HILARY ANNE
GENRE: Contemporary Romance, New Adult
Tropes and highlights: One night stand, Death and grief, solo traveller heroine, tragic past, age gap
Age Rating:18+
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book review:
“Let’s show these people how brightly you shine then fill them with envy because all of your light is mine.”
You gotta brace yourself and keep the tissue box handy. 'cause you're gonna need it. It's very emotional. Very touching story.
I didn't feel the age gap trope so much. Like it didn't highlight that much.
The cover is so simple, you wouldn't imagine what's waiting for you inside. The spice was good. Loved the character development. Both of their characters evolved. And the escalation was on another level. He was heartbroken when he met her, after their one night stand. When their paths crossed again, he wasn't ready to meet her again. But how he became completely opposite of what he was, his evolution is so good🤌🏻🥹 And the side characters were catchy too. I liked them too. Matthew was too good🥹 but I wasn't ready for what happened. I was literally sobbing.😭
Overall, it is an un-put-down-able kinda book. Totally worth a read.
BROKEN COMPASS By HILARY ANNE
GENRE: Contemporary Romance, New Adult
Tropes and highlights: One night stand, Death and grief, solo traveller heroine, tragic past, age gap
Age Rating:18+
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book review:
“Let’s show these people how brightly you shine then fill them with envy because all of your light is mine.”
You gotta brace yourself and keep the tissue box handy. 'cause you're gonna need it. It's very emotional. Very touching story.
I didn't feel the age gap trope so much. Like it didn't highlight that much.
The cover is so simple, you wouldn't imagine what's waiting for you inside. The spice was good. Loved the character development. Both of their characters evolved. And the escalation was on another level. He was heartbroken when he met her, after their one night stand. When their paths crossed again, he wasn't ready to meet her again. But how he became completely opposite of what he was, his evolution is so good🤌🏻🥹 And the side characters were catchy too. I liked them too. Matthew was too good🥹 but I wasn't ready for what happened. I was literally sobbing.😭
Overall, it is an un-put-down-able kinda book. Totally worth a read.
May 10, 2023
☆ 4/5 & 2.5/5 spice
My first book I’ve read by Hilary and I enjoyed it so so much! There was a balance of everything from an amazing storyline, many heartwarming and spicy scenes, to wonderful character developments that instantly hooks you into reading it.
Charlie struggles with feelings of guilt from her past after experiencing a loss in her life. She sets out to travel the world in hopes of re-discovering herself. While focusing on trying to find peace and meaning in her life, Charlie meets a man, in which she ends up having a one night stand with, and they eventually have another unexpected encounter once again.
There were many times when I began tearing up because some scenes were just so heartbreaking, but heartwarming at the same time. While Charlie was traveling, I was cheering her on from the sideline in hopes that she is able to re-discover and stop placing blame on herself. Miles is such a caring guy, helping Charlie every step of the way. The banter between Charlie and Miles made me smile so hard.
A wonderful read, I really enjoyed it, and definitely recommend!
Tropes:
❥ Grumpy x sunshine
❥ Age gap
❥ Forced proximity
❥ Expiration date
My first book I’ve read by Hilary and I enjoyed it so so much! There was a balance of everything from an amazing storyline, many heartwarming and spicy scenes, to wonderful character developments that instantly hooks you into reading it.
Charlie struggles with feelings of guilt from her past after experiencing a loss in her life. She sets out to travel the world in hopes of re-discovering herself. While focusing on trying to find peace and meaning in her life, Charlie meets a man, in which she ends up having a one night stand with, and they eventually have another unexpected encounter once again.
There were many times when I began tearing up because some scenes were just so heartbreaking, but heartwarming at the same time. While Charlie was traveling, I was cheering her on from the sideline in hopes that she is able to re-discover and stop placing blame on herself. Miles is such a caring guy, helping Charlie every step of the way. The banter between Charlie and Miles made me smile so hard.
A wonderful read, I really enjoyed it, and definitely recommend!
Tropes:
❥ Grumpy x sunshine
❥ Age gap
❥ Forced proximity
❥ Expiration date
May 9, 2023
Oh my. Hilary did it again. I finished this book days ago and am still reeling over it. An absolutely beautiful story, including all the heartbreaking events, the sweet turning points, and the spicy moments. Do I usually cry reading books? No. Did this book keep me up past 11pm crying? Most definitely sobbing.
Charlie is our sassy, strong FMC who is traveling the world in memory of her parents and self-discovery. Miles is our grumpy but caring MMC whose world has been flipped upside down. The amount of chemistry between the two was perfect and spicy, but I enjoyed the banter and heartfelt moments the most. I loved seeing each POV to see the growth for each character but also their thoughts and deeper feelings.
Not only did I love our main characters, but I also adored each friend and family member. They added more depth and understanding of each character into the story. If you want a sweet, spicy but heart-wrenching story, then this book is for you. Don't worry, you'll be patched up in the end and characters living rent-free in your memories.
Charlie is our sassy, strong FMC who is traveling the world in memory of her parents and self-discovery. Miles is our grumpy but caring MMC whose world has been flipped upside down. The amount of chemistry between the two was perfect and spicy, but I enjoyed the banter and heartfelt moments the most. I loved seeing each POV to see the growth for each character but also their thoughts and deeper feelings.
Not only did I love our main characters, but I also adored each friend and family member. They added more depth and understanding of each character into the story. If you want a sweet, spicy but heart-wrenching story, then this book is for you. Don't worry, you'll be patched up in the end and characters living rent-free in your memories.
May 12, 2023
A truly heart warming story
I honestly can’t express how much I loved this story!
I think everyone has a little bit of Charlie in them. We all have the need to find ourselves, she’s brave, creative and inspiring and she doesn’t even know it! Charlie’s parents are taken from her at quite a young and she holds so much guilt from this that she struggles to find meaningful relationships until Miles……..
Miles is a little broken at first, he meets Charlie at a club, no names shared basis 😉 but the universe is determined and their night can’t be forgotten by either of them and paths cross again.
These two are so perfectly matched it’s crazy and Hilary has a very special way with words that you’re completely sucked in from the beginning. She broke my heart with this book but glued it back together and although it’s not completely repaired I genuinely can’t wait to read her next book!!
If you haven’t read Weak Heart you’re missing out, although it’s not required to read this book you do meet Charlie in it first so I do recommend reading before!
I honestly can’t express how much I loved this story!
I think everyone has a little bit of Charlie in them. We all have the need to find ourselves, she’s brave, creative and inspiring and she doesn’t even know it! Charlie’s parents are taken from her at quite a young and she holds so much guilt from this that she struggles to find meaningful relationships until Miles……..
Miles is a little broken at first, he meets Charlie at a club, no names shared basis 😉 but the universe is determined and their night can’t be forgotten by either of them and paths cross again.
These two are so perfectly matched it’s crazy and Hilary has a very special way with words that you’re completely sucked in from the beginning. She broke my heart with this book but glued it back together and although it’s not completely repaired I genuinely can’t wait to read her next book!!
If you haven’t read Weak Heart you’re missing out, although it’s not required to read this book you do meet Charlie in it first so I do recommend reading before!
May 26, 2023
Thank you to the wonderful Hilary Anne for the ARC of her book, Broken Compass. You all need to read this right now!
When a book brings you to tears, it deserves deserves 5 starts. And this was the first book I read this year that made me cry.
The FMC, Charlie was a ball of fire and was so vibrant. She achieved so much growth through the book and really found herself. The Taylor men all had hearts of gold and I fell in love with them so fast. Matty was fun and outgoing and formed the sweetest relationship with Charlie. Miles was the wiser older brother who was mending his heart while fighting his growing love for Charlie.
Miles was the ultimate book boyfriend with language that’ll make you blush. Both he and Charlie had hurdles to overcome but through them found each other. Their chemistry was unstoppable and their relationship flourished so well.
This book had me swooning one second and broke my heart in the next. The shock toward the end was one I did not see coming and had my heart shattering. Then in the next second, I was back to another moment of joy from this book.
When a book brings you to tears, it deserves deserves 5 starts. And this was the first book I read this year that made me cry.
The FMC, Charlie was a ball of fire and was so vibrant. She achieved so much growth through the book and really found herself. The Taylor men all had hearts of gold and I fell in love with them so fast. Matty was fun and outgoing and formed the sweetest relationship with Charlie. Miles was the wiser older brother who was mending his heart while fighting his growing love for Charlie.
Miles was the ultimate book boyfriend with language that’ll make you blush. Both he and Charlie had hurdles to overcome but through them found each other. Their chemistry was unstoppable and their relationship flourished so well.
This book had me swooning one second and broke my heart in the next. The shock toward the end was one I did not see coming and had my heart shattering. Then in the next second, I was back to another moment of joy from this book.
May 9, 2023
“ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘᴀꜱꜱ ɢɪᴠᴇꜱ ᴅɪʀᴇᴄᴛɪᴏɴꜱ. ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ, ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴀ ꜱʏᴍʙᴏʟ ᴏꜰ ʜᴏᴘᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍʏ ʟɪꜰᴇ ɪꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ʀɪɢʜᴛ ᴅɪʀᴇᴄᴛɪᴏɴ. ᴀɴᴅ ᴡʜᴇɴ ɪ ʟᴏᴏᴋ ᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ɪᴛ ꜰᴇᴇʟꜱ ʟɪᴋᴇ ɪ ᴀᴍ.”
Rating 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book consumed me. One minute I was at 20%, the next I was almost done sobbing my eyes out not thinking I could go on because I was heart broken. Hilary definitely does us dirty in this. I was not expecting to be sobbing my eyes out the way I was. Thankfully she did pick up the pieces of my heart and mend them back together at the end, but if you’re looking for a cute, sexy, heart wrenching book, Broken Compass is for you.
•update: this book is still living rent free in my head-please have an emotional support bestie on stand by for this book-you’ll definitely be needing one••
•Grumpy/sunshine
•Forced Proximity
•Dual POV
Rating 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book consumed me. One minute I was at 20%, the next I was almost done sobbing my eyes out not thinking I could go on because I was heart broken. Hilary definitely does us dirty in this. I was not expecting to be sobbing my eyes out the way I was. Thankfully she did pick up the pieces of my heart and mend them back together at the end, but if you’re looking for a cute, sexy, heart wrenching book, Broken Compass is for you.
•update: this book is still living rent free in my head-please have an emotional support bestie on stand by for this book-you’ll definitely be needing one••
•Grumpy/sunshine
•Forced Proximity
•Dual POV
May 14, 2023
Available on KU
Page count: 360
5 stars!!
3.75/5 for spicy spice
*TROPES*
✈︎ Grumpy/Sunshine
♥︎ Forced Proximity
✈︎ Age Gap
♥︎ "...only one night"
✈︎ Traveling heroine
Oh for the love of trying to find yourself, love, heartbreak, finding yourself and love again.
I know we were warned that we may need tissues. That was not a lie. But I still don’t think I was prepared for the tears that were rolling down my face late at night.
Hilary Anne held my heart in her hands, squeezed it and maybe broke it (a lot) but she did end up putting it back together by the end.
I did relate to the MCs. Charlie was dealing with grief from loss & insecurities about not being enough to be loved. Miles was dealing with the fact his marriage failed and thoughts that you may never meet your someone after thinking you already had.
But after saying all of that… go get this book! It’s available on KU and as an ebook.
You can preorder a physical copy from her website (they will ship out sometime in June).
Thank you Hilary Anne for an ARC of Broken Compass. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
Page count: 360
5 stars!!
3.75/5 for spicy spice
*TROPES*
✈︎ Grumpy/Sunshine
♥︎ Forced Proximity
✈︎ Age Gap
♥︎ "...only one night"
✈︎ Traveling heroine
Oh for the love of trying to find yourself, love, heartbreak, finding yourself and love again.
I know we were warned that we may need tissues. That was not a lie. But I still don’t think I was prepared for the tears that were rolling down my face late at night.
Hilary Anne held my heart in her hands, squeezed it and maybe broke it (a lot) but she did end up putting it back together by the end.
I did relate to the MCs. Charlie was dealing with grief from loss & insecurities about not being enough to be loved. Miles was dealing with the fact his marriage failed and thoughts that you may never meet your someone after thinking you already had.
But after saying all of that… go get this book! It’s available on KU and as an ebook.
You can preorder a physical copy from her website (they will ship out sometime in June).
Thank you Hilary Anne for an ARC of Broken Compass. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
May 30, 2023
• Broken Compass •
“𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕒 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕡𝕒𝕤𝕤?” 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕤𝕜𝕤. “𝔸 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕡𝕒𝕤𝕤 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕤 𝕕𝕚𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤. 𝕋𝕠 𝕞𝕖, 𝕚𝕥’𝕤 𝕒 𝕤𝕪𝕞𝕓𝕠𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕙𝕠𝕡𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕞𝕪 𝕝𝕚𝕗𝕖 𝕚𝕤 𝕘𝕠𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕣𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕕𝕚𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕀 𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕚𝕥 𝕗𝕖𝕖𝕝𝕤 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕀 𝕒𝕞.”
Umm I was not emotionally prepared for this book - @hilary.anne.author what did you just do to me!?
Charlie is on a travel solo adventure when she literally stumbles into Miles. The attraction is instant but they both have pasts that has built some stubborn walls. So they promise each other 1 night and don’t even exchange names. Imagine their surprises with due to living arrangements they are now neighbors. A beautiful story of second chances, true love, forgiveness and finding yourself.
I don’t normally rate books because every reader gets something different out of a book but this is a 5 ⭐️ on my scale!
May 14, 2023
Charlie and Miles are going to take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions!!! This book had my heart gripped up in its tight embrace from start to finish. I was happy, I was heart broken, I was questioning everything at one point or another! Will Charlie leave everything behind, including Miles? Will Miles leave his past behind and choose a new path? Will London forever be just a hazy place for all those involved? You have got to read this book to truly understand the wild ride I am going to have a hard time recovering from. This is a must add to everyone's TBR. If you've got Kindle Unlimited, what are you still reading my review for? GO ADD THIS BOOK!!!
May 29, 2023
I loved this book! I absolutely loved Hilary’s book Weak Heart so when I saw she needed ARC readers for her next book, I jumped at the chance to read this one. It was so beautifully written. So many emotions when reading this book. I loved it from start to finish!
Charlotte and Miles had such a beautiful and sexy love story. The instant chemistry between the two was great. I will admit the spicy moments were 🥵, lol! But overall, Charlie and Miles brought out the best in each other. This is one book that I wouldn’t mind going back to read again.
Highly recommend checking out Hilary Anne’s books!
Charlotte and Miles had such a beautiful and sexy love story. The instant chemistry between the two was great. I will admit the spicy moments were 🥵, lol! But overall, Charlie and Miles brought out the best in each other. This is one book that I wouldn’t mind going back to read again.
Highly recommend checking out Hilary Anne’s books!
May 15, 2023
I loved this book with Charlie and Miles. I haven’t ever read Hilary’s work before and I found myself immediately drawn into the story and wanting to read more and finish the book. I also loved the setting of the story, London! I love stories set in the UK so of course I had to read this one. Charlie begins with a loss in her life and then she meets a one night stand Miles. Then she re-meets him again😊 Needless to say fireworks happen and the two have to decide what is right for them both. Great read!
May 12, 2023
I really enjoyed the relationship between miles and Charlie. This is my first read from Hilary Anne and I will for sure being reading more.
I loved the spice and the pull at my heartstrings this hooks gives. Thank you for making me feel but also giving me the HEA I needed.
I loved the spice and the pull at my heartstrings this hooks gives. Thank you for making me feel but also giving me the HEA I needed.
October 6, 2023
I have been in quite a reading slump and stumbled upon this book on bookstagram. I fell in love head over heels with the characters... so the last chapters had me in tears. In my opinion, it is very well written!!
Trigger warning: death
Trigger warning: death
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Hilary Anne broke my heart &sewed it back together. I laughed, I cried &cried &cried lol.
* The writing was smooth &rotated through time seamlessly. All the characters were lovable, even the side characters. There was suspense that kept me coming back for more.
* One of the standing features I remember from Hilary’s first book is that she knows how to write spice &this book didn’t lack any spice. It was 🔥🔥🔥
* Highly recommend if you like romantic suspense, steamy spice &don’t mind your heart being ripped from your chest.
Themes:
* Forced proximity
* Grumpy sunshine
* Age gap (12 years)
* The writing was smooth &rotated through time seamlessly. All the characters were lovable, even the side characters. There was suspense that kept me coming back for more.
* One of the standing features I remember from Hilary’s first book is that she knows how to write spice &this book didn’t lack any spice. It was 🔥🔥🔥
* Highly recommend if you like romantic suspense, steamy spice &don’t mind your heart being ripped from your chest.
Themes:
* Forced proximity
* Grumpy sunshine
* Age gap (12 years)
June 28, 2023
Broken Compass
By: Hillary Anne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Broken Compass by Hillary Anne is a sweet, realistic story of a woman, Charlie, who has had a lot of heartache in her life and finally decides to make the change to travel the world, where she meets Miles in England. They instantly have a connection and she is friends with his brother Matty. There is trying times, love, anger (I won’t say hate), self growth, and so much more.
This book has an age gap, but nothing too big… Charlie, or Charlotte, is going into her 30th year and is finally figuring out her place in this world and what brings her happiness. Which I know I can relate to more than I’d care to admit. Miles is in his 40’s and is established and going through a divorce. While these two main characters are in different parts of their lives, they are in very similar parts when it comes to new beginnings.
This book has a small third scene break-up but not for the normal dramatic reasonings that typically occur. However, I feel that it was needed to allow the characters, especially Charlie, to grow.
Hillary Anne writes a book that pulls you in and makes you feel as though you are among the pages with the characters and keeps you wondering what is going to be happening next. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and the angst and tension while they are figuring the relationship out, makes it all the worth it in the end.
By: Hillary Anne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Broken Compass by Hillary Anne is a sweet, realistic story of a woman, Charlie, who has had a lot of heartache in her life and finally decides to make the change to travel the world, where she meets Miles in England. They instantly have a connection and she is friends with his brother Matty. There is trying times, love, anger (I won’t say hate), self growth, and so much more.
This book has an age gap, but nothing too big… Charlie, or Charlotte, is going into her 30th year and is finally figuring out her place in this world and what brings her happiness. Which I know I can relate to more than I’d care to admit. Miles is in his 40’s and is established and going through a divorce. While these two main characters are in different parts of their lives, they are in very similar parts when it comes to new beginnings.
This book has a small third scene break-up but not for the normal dramatic reasonings that typically occur. However, I feel that it was needed to allow the characters, especially Charlie, to grow.
Hillary Anne writes a book that pulls you in and makes you feel as though you are among the pages with the characters and keeps you wondering what is going to be happening next. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and the angst and tension while they are figuring the relationship out, makes it all the worth it in the end.
July 6, 2023
This is one of the few romance books that have taken me on a rollercoaster ride I’ll never forget.
I felt joy, I felt rebellion, I felt pain, I felt anger, I felt defiance, and I felt absolute contentment as I journeyed through Charlie and Miles’ relationship.
It’s a summer must read!! I had the privilege to be able to read it while in London, so seeing all the landmark mentions in real life made it feel even more real, more passionate, more tangible!
By far one of the best romance books I’ve read in a while!!
I felt joy, I felt rebellion, I felt pain, I felt anger, I felt defiance, and I felt absolute contentment as I journeyed through Charlie and Miles’ relationship.
It’s a summer must read!! I had the privilege to be able to read it while in London, so seeing all the landmark mentions in real life made it feel even more real, more passionate, more tangible!
By far one of the best romance books I’ve read in a while!!
July 9, 2023
Review to come at a later date.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews