Broken Rose by Stefan Vučak is a compelling exploration of family, identity, and inner conflict. The story follows Mason, a brilliant man haunted by a tumultuous relationship with his parents, especially his demanding father Nikola. After a heated confrontation and a night of introspection, Mason seeks reconciliation, confronting years of emotional neglect and striving for acceptance. The narrative follows Mason as he navigates his complex past, personal failures, and the quest for self-understanding. When he meets Leola Lanaro, he thinks she is the one. However, Leola’s parents are controlling as well and have a unique view of marriage, which is quite different from what Mason had hoped for. Can Mason succeed in love, mend his relationship with his parents, and find a path forward?

There was so much I enjoyed in Broken Rose by Stefan Vučak. The setting spans the vibrant cityscape of Melbourne, Australia, juxtaposed with the serene, nostalgic retreat of Mt. Macedon, where Mason’s grandparents live. The characters—Mason, his authoritative father Nikola, compassionate mother Brianna, wise grandmother Nada, and the nostalgic grandfather Milan—are uniquely developed, genuine, and flawed. Themes of parental approval, the struggles of childhood, and the search for authenticity are resonant themes that I enjoyed. I also loved that Vučak skillfully weaves these thematic elements into a richly textured narrative, exploring the importance of reconciliation and self-awareness against the backdrop of a complex family history. I found this novel deeply moving, psychologically grounded, and utterly entertaining.

This book is available on Amazon.