"Morning in This Broken World" by Katrina Kittle promises to be an emotionally resonant and uplifting tale of resilience, healing, and the bonds of unlikely companionship. The description sets the stage for a heartwarming story that explores the complexities of grief, family, and new beginnings.

Vivian Laurent, the grieving widow at the center of the story, is portrayed as a strong and determined character despite her heartache and the challenges she faces in the later stages of her life. Her decision to invite Luna, a nursing assistant facing her own struggles, and Luna's two children into her home reflects an act of compassion and kindness that has the potential to change all of their lives.

The inclusion of Luna's children, including the exuberant Wren and troubled Cooper, adds depth and complexity to the narrative. It suggests a tale of characters from different walks of life coming together to support and uplift one another, especially in the face of adversity and the backdrop of a pandemic.

The themes of healing, reconciliation, and finding hope during difficult times are likely to resonate with readers, especially given the challenges faced by individuals and families in recent years. The story seems to emphasize the idea that even in a broken world, there can be moments of connection and redemption.

Overall, "Morning in This Broken World" appears to be a moving and hopeful novel that explores the power of human connection and the potential for new beginnings, even when life seems at its darkest. Readers who appreciate stories of personal growth, family dynamics, and the resilience of the human spirit are likely to find this book both heartwarming and inspiring.

I have so many feelings about this story.

Morning in this Broken World by Katrina Kittle is a depiction of an upper-middle class woman named Vivian, who has recently lost her husband and her experience through the Covid-19 lockdown alongside Luna, her favorite nurse, and Luna's children Cooper and Wren. All four are POV characters, which rotate in sequence.

The writing style is compelling, and I really enjoyed the found family dynamics of this Covid-19 pod. I would suggest picking it up and giving it a read.

I'm sticking with three stars (3.5 rounding down) because while this is a well written book that gave me a lot that I wanted to talk about, some of that discussion was things that upset me about the story. I didn't fully agree with how some of the social issue discussions were handled (some felt performative and others just never felt fully addressed properly or felt hypocritical), which may well have been the intention for realism but it left me unfulfilled.

I also felt like there were times certain plot threads jumped around or just worked themselves out overly conveniently off screen. The ending of this story did not land satisfactorily for me, although I can see it worked wonderfully for others.

Overall I loved seeing the characters grow together as they reclaimed a sense of joy and community.

I think this book will work well for those who enjoy character driven stories who are looking for the slightest of mysteries (done well!) and no romance, with an emphasis on family of choice and grief recovery.

You will also enjoy this book if you are looking for a non-magical fantasy (money is no obstacle whatsoever for Vivian, in direct contrast to Luna who starts out the story with an eviction notice). Perhaps consider it your do-over for the pandemic, where the obstacles, though many, can't ever fully keep you from your dreams.

I've never read this author before, but I would give Kittle another try.

As a heads up: there are a lot of heavy themes including ableism, homophobia, addiction, and suicide that all get a decent amount of page time.

This was a really beautiful story and a great description of what it was like to live through the pandemic. It had such heartbreaking ending, and like real life, not all the strings tied up perfectly. I always love found family vibes, so the "family" in this book was the highlight of the story for me. I'm not totally sure I was ready to read a pandemic narrative, but this was a great first go for me. It felt a little bit political a couple of times, but not overwhelmingly so and definitely still readable.

Really liked it! Thanks to net galley for the advanced copy to read.

Katrina Kittle's "Morning in This Broken World" is a profound and beautifully crafted novel that deep dives into the human experience, exploring themes of resilience, connection, and the enduring power of compassion. This exceptional work is not just a book; it's an emotionally charged and transformative journey that will resonate with readers on a profound level.

At the heart of the story are the characters, each meticulously drawn and profoundly relatable. As readers follow the interconnected stories of individuals who have faced unimaginable challenges, they will find themselves not only empathizing with their struggles but also celebrating their strength and resilience.

"Morning in This Broken World" masterfully portrays the way in which acts of kindness and compassion can mend even the deepest wounds. It reminds us that in a world often marked by brokenness, there is also the potential for profound healing and transformation.

The storytelling is poignant and thought-provoking. Kittle's novel unfolds with grace and sensitivity, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the lives of the characters. The prose is exquisite, striking the perfect balance between evocative descriptions and insightful introspection.

The novel is not just a story; it's a reflection on the human condition and the capacity for redemption. It's a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is the possibility for hope to shine through.

"Morning in This Broken World" is proof of the author's storytelling gifts and her ability to craft a narrative that is at once heart-wrenching and heartwarming. It is a book that invites readers to reflect on their own lives, their relationships, and their capacity for empathy.

Katrina Kittle's "Morning in This Broken World" a profound exploration of the human spirit, and a celebration of the resilience of the human heart. It is a book that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately believe in the power of human connection.

"Morning in This Broken World" is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is beauty, there is hope, and there is the enduring capacity for love and compassion. It is a literary gem that deserves to be cherished and shared with readers who are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and profound emotional connection.

This is a book to be loved and celebrated for its ability to remind us of our shared humanity and the boundless potential for healing and renewal.

This is a feel-good, life-affirming story, as advertised. I don't usually read books like this but I needed a break from the mystery/suspense. Sweet story and likable characters. This is a book I feel safe enough to recommend to anyone and believe they could enjoy it. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Morning in this Broken World Katrina Kittle

Vivian’s husband Jack suffered from Alzheimer’s and recently died in the assisted living facility both had moved to. Vivian does not need assistance so plans on moving to the independent living section of Sycamore Place and is selling her large home. The date is March 2020, and a strange, often deadly virus is circulating.
When Vivian learns they are all going to be in lock-down, because of the virus, she decides to cancel the sale of her house and move back in, however not alone. She learns that Luna, one of her favorite nursing assistants who cared for Jack, is being evicted from her apartment, along with her two children, teenage son, Cooper, and eleven-year-old Wren, who is in a wheelchair. Wren reminds Vivian of her own daughter, Ann-Marie, who she has not seen in many years, in fact, she believes she is most likely dead. Towards the end of his illness, jack thought Wren was his very own Ann-Marie.
Vivian, who was on the verge of ending her own life with some left-over pain pills, makes a hasty decision to take Luna and her family with her and move back into the big house.
This is a heartfelt story of how those not related by blood can come together as a family. They each have issues of their own, there are several ups and down, many surprises all while dealing with new rules resulted from Covid. This impromptu family brings Vivian back to life and give Luna and her kids hope for the future.
Although this is a heartwarming story, I felt the use of the F word did not enhance the story and the use of profanity was disappointing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.

Loved it!!! I have missed reading Katrina Kittle's books. I was so excited to read this because I loved the author's previous books and it definitely didn't disappoint. The story was beautifully written and I loved every part of it. My favorite character was Vivian (followed very closely by Ox). She knew exactly how to be around people and said what was on her mind. She connected with everyone she met. Luna and her family were exactly what Vivian needed and vice versa. She stood her ground with Ann-Marie, even though it was tough. The real hero of the book had to be Ox, with his fat, chubby self. He gave love to everyone he met. Loved how he road around with Wren on her wheelchair. Vivian's birthday party was quite the disaster with all the uninvited guests showing up. Loved how she sat at the table with Ox on her lap. Drew and Steven were so protective of Vivian and would do anything for them. They were also the best people for Cooper. Loved everything about this book. I wished it ended differently, but everyone was brought together for a reason. They all helped each other.

Definitely recommend the book. I loved the characters, story and writing style. I felt like I was right there with Vivian and Luna. I couldn't put the book down, but was sad when I got to the end. I wanted to keep reading about everyone. I felt like I was part of the family. The book was full of love, loss, forgiveness and so much more. I look forward to reading more books by the author and hope there's many more to come.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lake Union Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

There are many sayings out there about family is not always about blood. This book demonstrates this fact. Family can also be about choosing the people you want around you because of the goodness in their hearts.

This book is about people who come to live together during Covid. Circumstances threw them together. There are many different personalities. Everything is not always rosy but everyone finds their place. They have growing pains adapting. And they also have growth as characters.

Some may find parts of the story a bit too “sweet” but for me, it worked. I loved that one of the characters is a young girl with Cerebral Palsy. And, she IS a character.

Love, forgiveness, acceptance, resilience and hope. All of these play a big part in the story.

And, there may have been a tear or two at the end.

**Huge trigger warning for this book. It takes place during Covid and is quite involved with the Pandemic. It might be too soon for some people. Other triggers: suicidal thoughts, drug addiction.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an Advance Readers Copy.

Morning In This Broken World was absolutely lovely. Filled with complex but likeable characters- and even some more unlikeable characters who received some growth and redemption in their arcs- I found myself flying through this story in one sitting, unable to tear myself away. I would have loved to ride out pandemic lockdown with them all- especially the powerhouse that is Vivian.

I had not previously been familiar with the author, Katrina Kittle, but given how well she captured the moment here and created such full and lifelike characters, I will definitely be reading more of her work. Can’t recommend this one enough.

Thank you Katrina Kittle, Lake Union Publishing, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

Morning in This Broken World by Katrina Kittle is an engaging and thoughtful story.
The characters were so well written and vivid to me. I felt like I knew them personally.
I also felt so attached to the characters in this novel.
The writing is absolutely incredible. No other way to describe it.
Morning in This Broken World is a compelling novel of families we choose, unlikely friendships and finding love and hope!

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Thank You NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

It's COVID lockdown and Vivian, Luna, Cooper, and Wren all take their turns telling the story of the family they made. Vivian is aging and angry (as well as depressed), Cooper is a teen who has his own issues, Wren is in a wheelchair due to cerebral palsy, and Luna, well Luna is the single mom who ties them all together. This could have gone several ways but Kittle does a really nice job of world building and with the characters. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A heart warmer.

I'm just beginning to be comfortable with reading books about life in the pandemic. Kittle did such a great job with this story. I felt all the feels! Beautiful characters and it was very well written like her other books. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Five stars.

I loved the main character who is an elderly lady with so much strength and conviction to do what was in her heart to help the people she loved and to make her own final days the very best.
All taking place during the pandemic
days! (We won’t forget those challenging ,scary days!)
This book will surely warm your heart!
*Tissues will be needed!*

Ms. Kittle has given her readers an ensemble cast of characters mired in separate states of grief, loneliness and desperation. They are loosely connected by single-mother Luna's employment as a nursing assistant at the senior living facility at which the recently widowed, now suicidal Vivian lives. The virtually simultaneous arrival of Covid lockdowns, and an eviction notice for Luna--her young daughter has cerebral palsy and her teenage son is a hotbed of anger--are the catalyst for deeper connection. The result is a thoroughly optimistic, compassionate novel that is woven together of surprisingly realistic suspicions, fears, tragedies, griefs, and earned joys.

I was so excited to receive an ARC of MORNING IN THIS BROKEN WORLD by Katrina Kittle. I've been a fan of hers since I first read TRAVELING LIGHT, which of course prompted me to read her other works and then wait eagerly for more! In this emotional and poignant read, Kittle brings truly memorable characters to life. We hear from four of them (Vivian, Luna, Cooper, and Wren), but the secondary cast is just as appealing. These people seem real to me--they could be my friends, my neighbors, my family, me--and their experience with the stress of life juxtaposed with the stress of the pandemic will be relatable for just about everyone. Kittle is a master at her craft: she evokes emotion on every page and reminds the reader of the importance of human connection even at, or especially during, the most dire of circumstances. Humorous, thoughtful, and engaging, Kittle has written another winner. And that cover! Swoon (as Kittle herself likes to say!).