Bent but Not Broken

A Lexington, Alabama Novel, Book 5

By: Mary Monroe

Narrated by: Shari Peele

Brimming with unpredictable twists and scandals, the latest Depression-era Alabama novel from award-winning, New York Times bestselling author Mary Monroe tells of a mistreated wife who finally finds the love she's longed for—only to be plunged into deceit, betrayal, and murder . . .

As a young woman, Naomi Simmons grabbed her one chance to escape the overwhelming demands of her selfish family by marrying devout older man Jacob Purcell. But it only landed her with a controlling, unfaithful husband who delights in hurling insults at her and their troubled now-teenage daughter, Ethel Mae. So, Naomi is amazed and touched when Homer Clark sees her for the vibrant, intelligent woman she truly is. Believing the handsome, worldly widower is her love of a lifetime, Naomi plans to leave with Homer and start fresh in the big city . . .

Then Jacob suffers a debilitating stroke, and Naomi can't bring herself to abandon him. Unfortunately, Homer refuses to listen—or understand. Relieved when he leaves town and disappears, Naomi dedicates herself to the now-grateful Jacob’s care. And she feels truly delighted and blessed when Ethel Mae finally gets her life on track away from home—and comes back with good news . . .

But Ethel Mae’s surprise will shock Naomi to her core and threaten everything and everyone she holds most precious. With no one who can help her—or believe her—Naomi battles increasingly insidious mind games even as her world starts falling apart. Can she defeat what appears to be a twisted scheme against her? Or will she be forced into a devastating showdown that will leave no one undamaged—or standing?

©2025 Mary Monroe (P)2025 Recorded Books

I enjoyed not knowing how the story would end.

I really enjoy the stories from Lexington AL and can’t wait until the next story.

Exhausting

The main. Character was exhausting. The way she stayed in the terrible situation got to be too much for me. I almost did not finish the book.

Mary Monroe CANT MISS!!!!!

Absolutely love this book, I’ve enjoyed everything book and couldn’t wait to read this. Thank you for existing Mary Monroe. Your talents are unmatched in every aspect.

This book was everything!

I don’t know if Mrs Monroe is blessed with an amazing imagination or she knows the people in Lexington but her books are ALWAYS cliff hangers!!!!

Exactly the type of tale I expected

The book was engaging. Mary Monroe always gives you a twist or two and an abused Black woman who turns the tides on her abusers. This is a decent read and easy to finish.

Enjoyed

I really enjoyed the series. This had some jaw dropping moments and kept me listening.

Mary Monroe did it again!!!

This kept my attention from start to finish!! It was sooooo good and juicy! I loved it!

Never Disappointed

I’m a huge fan of this series and I absolutely adore her writing style and stories ! She is one of my favorite authors this book was AMAZING!!!!

The intriguing storyline

Mary Monroe never disappoints. I love that it is a period piece and that the characters are so interesting. The setting is in Lexington, AL tying back to some of the other books. Well done.

The shock factor! Not predictable

I love these Lexington AL books, I can’t wait to hear more and Shari’s narration is top tier!