Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns, leading us to places we never imagined. The Breaks, a literary novel by Ellen Barker, explores just that—second chances, unlikely friendships, and the struggles of reintegration after prison. As part of a book tour sponsored by iRead Book Tours, I had the opportunity to dive into this heartfelt and thought-provoking story. With well-drawn characters and a quietly powerful narrative, The Breaks offers a poignant look at resilience and the power of human connection. Read on for my full review!
My Review of "The Breaks" by Ellen Barker
Ellen Barker’s The Breaks is a quietly compelling literary novel that delves into themes of resilience, reinvention, and the unpredictable ways life can shift in an instant. With a focus on wrongful convictions and life after prison, the book follows protagonist Marianne as she finds herself in the middle of a story she never anticipated living.
A Story of Unexpected Turns
When Marianne wakes up in the ER with a broken arm after a date—or whatever it was—with Officer Carl, she certainly doesn’t expect her next adventure to involve picking up a newly released woman from prison. But at the request of Sister Colette, a nun she barely knows, she finds herself driving to the prison gates and stepping into an entirely different world.
Stephanie, the woman she picks up, is trying to figure out what it means to “just live” after years of incarceration. As she helps Marianne with daily tasks, the two form an unlikely friendship. Meanwhile, Sister Colette is on a mission of her own—she has bought the house behind Marianne’s and is working to create a safe haven for formerly incarcerated women.
All of this takes place in East of Troost, a once-vibrant neighborhood worn down by decades of systemic neglect. Marianne, who moved back after her own life took a downturn, is still adjusting to her surroundings and the new reality of her life.
A Slow but Rewarding Read
Barker’s writing is thoughtful and introspective, making The Breaks an easy but deliberate read. The characters are well-developed, particularly Sister Colette, who brings warmth and wisdom to the narrative. The book’s greatest strength lies in its emotional depth and the way it tackles complex themes without being overly heavy-handed.
That said, the pacing is a bit slow at times, and I found myself wanting more from the setting. While East of Troost is mentioned as a crucial backdrop, it often feels underutilized, leaving the characters floating in an undefined space rather than fully grounded in their environment.
Final Thoughts
For readers who enjoy character-driven stories with strong emotional cores, The Breaks is a worthwhile read. It highlights the struggles of reintegration after prison, the importance of community, and the small, everyday moments that shape our lives. While the pacing could have been tighter and the setting more immersive, the novel’s message of resilience and human connection makes it a compelling choice.
Recommended for fans of literary fiction who appreciate quiet yet powerful storytelling.
📚 Would you read this book? Let me know in the comments! 💬
Giveaway:
One (1) Paperback "The Breaks" by Ellen Barker, USA only. Ends March 31, 2025, at Midnight EST.
Comments