Title: Broken Branches
Author: M. Johnathan Lee
Publisher: Hideaway Fall
Release Date: 27 July 2017
Pages: 295
Format: Paperback Arc
Source: Publisher
Reading Challenges: 2017 New Release, COYER
‘Family curses don’t exist. Sure, some families seem to suffer more pain than others, but a curse? An actual curse? I don’t think so.’
A family tragedy was the catalyst for Ian Perkins to return to the isolated cottage with his wife and young son. But now they are back, it seems yet more grief might befall the family.
There is still time to act, but that means Ian must face the uncomfortable truth about his past. And in doing so, he must uncover the truth behind the supposed family curse.
Broken Branches by M. Johnathan Lee is the kind of story that slowly pulls the reader in and holds them captive to end.
What the story is about.
Following a family tragedy, Ian Perkins returned to his childhood home. Since then things have not been the same. His marriage is crumbling, and he is convinced the curse that has been affecting the Perkins family for over a century is the root. He is determined to prove to his wife and himself that the curse exists, but at what cost.
The Story
The title is befitting of the story. Not only does it refers to the huge Sycamore tree located near Cobweb Cottage, it also speaks to the broken branches of the Perkins family. For each generation of the family, there are members who distance themselves from their relatives and things were no different for Ian. If it were not for the tragedy, he would not have returned to his roots.
The story began on an intriguing note. The manner in which the author described the Sycamore tree was both creepy and electrifying. It peaked my curiosity and compelled me to keep reading. The story moved at a slow pace, but strangely, I was not bored. I believe this was due mostly in part to the writing. In addition, my curiosity to discover the outcome of Ianโs research and to get an explanation for the activities that appeared to be supernatural compelled me to finish reading this book. At around the last twenty percent of the book, I found myself eagerly turning the pages as things became more transparent. I have to say I was not expecting that outcome.
The story alternated between the past and the present, which was not a problem, however, the execution was confusing. No warning was given when the switch would occur.
The Characters
Although the characters displayed a wide range of emotions, I had difficulty connecting with them. I managed to develop an affinity with Ian, as his paranoia, fears and obsession leapt off the pages. There were moments when I questioned his sanity. I wondered if the events were real or if it was all in his head.
His relationship with his wife is suffering. They barely speak to each other. This is due in part to Ianโs obsession with proving his family is cursed. The light in his life is his son Harry, but eventually, he too was pushed to the background as Ianโs obsession grew.
Conclusion /Recommendation
The story touched on the issues of mental health, suicide and grief. It shows how tragedy can tear apart families and if not handled well. I had a few questions. I was hoping to discover what led to the strained relationship between Ian and his brother. I noticed that this was a trend throughout the generations.
Overall, I found the story entertaining and it kept me guessing to the end. I am glad that I got the opportunity to read this book.
Nadene's addiction to reading began at an early age, when a family friend gifted her a copy of Wuthering Heights. From that moment she was never without a book.She will read anything as long the material is compelling enough to hold her attention. She gained many experiences through the pages of the books she had the opportunity to read.She created this blog to share her love of books with like minded individuals hopes that in sharing reviews of the books read visitors to the blog will discover their next addictive read. When not reading, Nadene enjoys cooking, listening to music and watching television.
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Wow. This sounds like a pretty intense read Nadene and I’m glad you enjoyed it ๐
The cover seemed interesting right away, and this sounds like a book I can really get into. Loved your review, Nadene! Happy Wednesday!
Time switches are a bit iffy for me but I do like how this seems to explore several generations and difficult subjects.
For What It’s Worth
I haven’t read this author before but this story sounds interesting.
This is completely new to me but I’m so glad you introduced it to me. It sounds so intriguing and I love deep reads like these.
I’m not a fan of the murky time switch but I can deal with it. The cover threw me for what this was about but it still sounds interesting. Hm… now I want to know what led to that strained relationship. ๐
What’s up with the red thing
I have no idea.
I am glad that you enjoyed it despite a few issues. It does sound like a powerful subject.
This sounds like a very deep read that dives into mental health. It sucks that you weren’t able to connect with the characters more but it sounds like you still really enjoyed the story.