This book was far darker than I thought but very addicting to see unfold. There were some really good twists and I loved seeing how all the pieces fell together. These two have been through so much together and apart, and I loved how everything wrapped up. Highly recommend!

Unfortunately this story just wasn't for me but I will be trying books from this author again in the future. I want to thank the publisher, netgalley, and the author for the free copy of this book.

Love this book so much Mia is always surprising me with how great her books are. She has become one of my favorite authors over the years. She is a must buy for me. This story was mind-blowing and had me asking questions the whole time.

I’ve been a long time fan of Mia Sheridan’s books, starting from “Where The Truth Lies”. I love the range that she has in her writing, from dark suspenseful novels, to beautifully touching romances like “Archer’s Voice”. So when I saw that she had a new book out, with such a gorgeous cover, I was immediately drawn to it and sold!

I had high hopes that this would be another chilling dark romance, but it was completely different. This one is more of a fast paced/medical experimental version of Long Bright River. It follows a police inspector as she investigates a series of transient murders in San Francisco. At the scene of each crime, there are some suspicious drugs that no one can identify.

Then, enters an FBI agent who has been sent to partner with Lennon - Agent Ambrose Mars on the case. But, why was he sent there?

The investigation takes some very unsuspecting turns into medicine and psychiatry that hit me by surprise.

I’m sorry to say that this was a miss for me. I found it very slow and boring, and the new twists were different, but outlandish, IMO. The story just never captured my attention and halfway through, it became a chore to make it to the end.

I believe that many people will like this one because it does give some different spins, but it just didn’t work for me. It was very different from any MS novel I’ve read before.

At its heart, this is a mystery and romantic suspense, but it also takes readers on a deeply emotional journey, weaving in poignant messages and thought-provoking themes that serve as powerful reminders.

This story is a powerful journey—a raw, unflinching exploration of trauma, resilience, and healing. The character development shines, with Lennon and Ambrose, two protagonists whose compelling backstories create a profound and mutual bond.

Overall, a cleverly crafted and intensely gritty police procedural.

3.5 stars rounded to 4 for Goodreads

The Broken Places by Mia Sheridan

Audiobook narration was excellent. It was very well done.

Inspector Lennon Gray wasn’t expecting her new partner to be an FBI agent…. Agent Ambrose Mars is more interested in the hallucinogenic drugs than the murders that accompanied them… He isn’t looking for a connection but they seem drawn to each other… The drugs are doing something terrible and it’s their job to find the source before it is too late.

The book is written from both the POV of Lennon and Ambrose. I liked the contrast between the 2 characters and the mystery that surrounds Ambrose. It was a really dark thriller. I loved the clever twists and turns and the pace was excellent. It was fast when it needed to be and bought you down when it needed what you learned to sink in.

Very clever writing. I liked it a lot. The whole plot was excellently executed and I really was drawn in.

4 stars

This is an amazing story of humanity and the desire to heal, but also the effects of trauma when those in need don't receive care and treatment. Mia Sheridan has a way of writing dark stories with heart and hope woven in her words. The characters are both hurting and yet brave in the exploration of their pasts and learning to move on and trust in love. The addition of experimental drug therapy is a unique twist and something to ponder for the future. The audiobook is a great way to enjoy this incredible novel.

First, I want to thank Mia Sheridan, NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio for approving my request for this audiobook. I was so excited when I got the approval—Mia Sheridan is one of my favorite authors, and her books always deliver on intrigue, mystery, and unforgettable characters.

This story, set in the darker corners of San Francisco, follows Inspector Lennon Gray and Agent Ambrose Mars as they investigate a dangerous hallucinogenic drug that forces its victims into bizarre, dangerous role-plays. The premise is unique and gripping, and Lennon and Ambrose’s chemistry adds an emotional edge to the suspense. I was so intrigued by the dynamic between them and couldn’t wait to see how their relationship and the case would unfold.

Sadly, I wasn’t able to finish the book before it was archived. I was thrilled to receive the approval but didn’t realize the audiobook would only be available for two days. It simply wasn’t enough time to fully dive into the story, which is a shame because what I did get to listen to was absolutely compelling.

I’ll definitely be picking up the finished copy soon, because I know Mia Sheridan’s books always deliver, and The Broken Places is no exception.

Thank you again for the opportunity!

I enjoyed this dual narration. I did like the story and the twists but felt like I wanted more emotion like I’m used to reading with Mia. I would still highly recommend this book to friends and followers!

I want to start by saying wow, this is completely different from what I usually expect from Mia Sheridan. It's definitely darker than her usual books, but I really enjoyed it. If you have any triggers, be sure to check the warnings before reading, as there are quite a few.

The storyline is compelling, and as someone studying counseling, it really highlighted how inadequate our mental health resources are. The book explores various trauma experiences that many real people face. While it's fiction, much of what’s discussed is closer to reality than we might like to think. It’s definitely a page-turner, filled with unexpected twists and moments of light as the main characters find each other amidst the trauma they both face. I was completely hooked by the suspense and couldn't put it down. It's not a light or quick read, but it's one you definitely don’t want to miss.

Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Audio for the ALC!

Loved this-the ending came full circle and we needed that after the ride MS took us on. Loved the twist and the epilogue was everything I needed.

Lennon Gray is an Inspector for San Francisco Police Department. When Lennon is called to another crime scene it has the same M.O. as the last one s;he was at. At the crime scene there are several dead bodies and some pill with the letters BB on them. Someone in the Bay Area is manufactoring and distrupting the pills to people on the street. Lennon is paired up with FBI agent Ambrose Mars and together they are trying to follow the trail of the pills and find the identies of the victims. Ambrose Mars is not who he says he is and has his own personal agenda on finding the killer. This book is fast paced and comes full circle at the end. It takes a deep dive into why people are homeless and addicted to drug due to past trauma.

I really enjoyed this story. It captured me from the start it was the perfect romantic thriller.
Thank you for my gifted copy!

This was such a captivating story. The story takes you to the streets of San Francisco. Lennon Gray is a police detective working to solve the murder mystery behind a homemade drug that is being used to target homeless and prostitutes on the streets. I love the twists and turns that were in this story. The flashbacks really helped bring a fuller picture of the story. Audiobook is narrated by Nicol Zanzarella, Will Damron and Leon Nixon. These three really did such a great job telling this story. The voices were perfect for the characters and great emotion put into the story. I enjoyed listening to this.