Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

The Broken Destiny (Broken #1)

by Carlyle Labuschagne (Goodreads Author)

4.24 of 5 stars 4.24 · rating details · 86 ratings · 38 reviews

Ava knows much more, and feels much more than she is allowed to. When she starts questioning her origins and the destruction of Earth, things go horribly wrong for her. She is saved by a Minoan boy from an attempted kidnapping on her life – the perpetrators are evil Zulus and their dark ancient magic. Humans and Minoans are forbidden to interact with each other, and as she...more Ava knows much more, and feels much more than she is allowed to. When she starts questioning her origins and the destruction of Earth, things go horribly wrong for her. She is saved by a Minoan boy from an attempted kidnapping on her life – the perpetrators are evil Zulus and their dark ancient magic. Humans and Minoans are forbidden to interact with each other, and as she is taken back to their village she finds out why – they know of her, her kind and her destiny to save a dying race. Ava must rid them from the Council’s ruling and free the galaxy of The Shadow. Her destiny is to rise above the fall, because within her soul is the key to an archaic weapon that has been missing in the mix of a genetic code since the time of the ancients. As the prophecy unfolds she learns of her bloodline – a bloodline that makes her less human than she could ever have imagined. She alone has the power to destroy or save, but the mind-shift is a horrible thing. Ava will become what she hates to save the ones she loves. Beaten, poisoned, possessed and betrayed by her own emotions, she has no choice but to rise above it all… for that is her Destiny.

Prologue
All my life, I had searched for something, something I thought I ought to be. I felt like I was living someone else’s life, waiting for the awakening of my own. I felt like an empty shell burning for life. That was, until the day I lay dying in the prince’s chambers. I could no longer feel the pain from the tear in my gut. The only sensation left was a hollowed-out feeling that I had made a huge mistake in assuming that taking my own life, would have stopped the ancestors’ spirit from raging out. I had given up. I didn’t want to see myself killing the ones I loved. I was the Chosen one, but I threw it all away for what I thought would save a life. Could you end a life to save a life? I did, and I have regretted it ever since. I realized then that things like me are not meant to exist. What had been missing my whole life? It was I. To find myself, I had to lose myself in the worst possible way. The consequences of my actions became the legend of The Broken.(less)

Paperback, 358 pages

Published August 13th 2012 by SBPRA

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Win a Copy of This Book

The Broken Destiny by Carlyle Labuschagne

The Broken Destiny (Broken, #1)
by Carlyle Labuschagne (Goodreads Author)

One Signed Paperback Copy By the author accompanied by a pair of singed bookmarks. Giveaway is international

Ava knows much more, and feels much more t…more

Enter to win

Giveaway dates: Feb 22 - May 22, 2013

1 copy available, 3637 people requesting

Countries available: US, CA, and GB more

View details »

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

YA Debuts 2012

3rd out of 418 books — 1,222 voters

2012 Debut Authors (Young Adult & Middle Grade)

59th out of 793 books — 4,493 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Aug 24, 2012 Carlyle Labuschagne added it · (Review from the author) Recommends it for: lovers of Scifi, fantasy, fiction, paranormal, romance,

Her Destiny is to rise above the fall ....
http://www.carlylelabuschagne.com/

7 likes · like · see review

Aug 28, 2012 Gold Grino rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: dystopia, favorites, series, read-in-2012

Initially posted here:
www.wefancybooks.blogspot.com

"I'm just a shy girl who isn't capable of anything other than being unhappy with everything around her. I don't have any power." Or Ava thought so... A 16 year old girl, product of a genetic experimentation, who felt nothing but hollow inside her, is about to face the world with a different perspective and power.

They live in Poseidon, a planet where the failed human experiments, Minoans fled to when Earth was not habitable for them anymore, or w...more Initially posted here:
www.wefancybooks.blogspot.com

"I'm just a shy girl who isn't capable of anything other than being unhappy with everything around her. I don't have any power." Or Ava thought so... A 16 year old girl, product of a genetic experimentation, who felt nothing but hollow inside her, is about to face the world with a different perspective and power.

They live in Poseidon, a planet where the failed human experiments, Minoans fled to when Earth was not habitable for them anymore, or what The Council forced them to believe. All the while Ava kept a diary of his mom revealing some very important information that made her question so many things yet no one could give her answers. Until that one particular incident… Oooh, this book is really exciting! Heart-pounding! That incident served as the eye opener for her... Yes, you better read it yourself. :)

Ava thought she was incapable of having emotions until she stayed with the Minoans, got closer with Maya and met her brother, Enoch. Arrogant, hot-tempered and a little stony! Everybody advised her to stay away from him, even her sister said, "Enoch is bad news." Her instincts told her the same, but something inside tells her that it's ok to be with Enoch... And if you are in her shoes, what are you going to do?

Then there's this Troy, whom Ava didn't know really well yet a force keeps pulling her towards him. Dark and irresistible. What could be better than having two knight-in-shining-armor kind of guys fighting for you? But hey, the story isn't just about them. It tackles a wide range of issues, Ava being The One to save the people, the 'changes' she had to endure, the witches, The Zulus, her bloodline, the prophecy, etc...

"To know yourself, you have to know who you are not. To find the light, you have to go through the dark."

I just had a little bit of a hard time remembering the relationship of the characters but overall, I love the plot, I love the clarity and simplicity of how the story was delivered, I love how alive and witty and funny the characters are. Yes, everything is just wonderful!

I'm not much of a sci-fi, Dystopian fan but I enjoyed this, so much that I don't even want to end it, very impatient for the next book! It is so hard to contain everything in a review without spilling anything so I'm stopping myself now and urging you to read this. You won't regret it, I promise!

Oh, and don't you just love the cover?

MORE REVIEWS HERE: www.wefancybooks.blogspot.com (less)

6 likes · like · see review

Sep 09, 2012 Alice Belikov First lady Ivashkov marked it as to-read

*squeals* This was such an AWESOME READ!!!!!! I will say I knew this book was going to be great even before I read the book lol I mean....LOOK AT THE COVER!!!!! It's beautiful and what makes a beautiful cover better? A GREAT story behind it! But anyway enough with the fan-girl action :)

This story is about Ava, who is the chosen one and is destined to change the path of the planet she was exiled to called Poseidon. Ava, along with others like her are called 'The Broken' because they are the third...more *squeals* This was such an AWESOME READ!!!!!! I will say I knew this book was going to be great even before I read the book lol I mean....LOOK AT THE COVER!!!!! It's beautiful and what makes a beautiful cover better? A GREAT story behind it! But anyway enough with the fan-girl action :)

This story is about Ava, who is the chosen one and is destined to change the path of the planet she was exiled to called Poseidon. Ava, along with others like her are called 'The Broken' because they are the third generation of enhanced human beings. The chosen ones go through a change when they hit puberty and some go crazy and others get enhanced powers.

Ava has always been the one that doesn't really fit into the crowd but she has her best friend Sam who knows everything about her and has been there every step of the way. Sam and Ava's relationship is nothing but trouble in the school faculties eyes and they are determined to separate them but Ava is determined not to let that happen. Along with school problems Ava meets a guy named Enoch*fans self*, who is Maya's brother. Enoch ends up saving Ava and she finds herself slowly falling for him, but Ava is constantly questioning Enoch and his motives. Can she trust him? You will have to find out and see!!!!!!

This story was so good and refreshing in so many ways! The world was awesome and easy to understand, the characters where also easy to connect with and are very likable which I really LOVED :) I really enjoyed the history in the story it doesn't take long before you just can't put the book down!! OMG this was a page turner!!!! This book had a lot of twist and turns that made it to where I could not put it down. I loved Ava as the main character she was so true to herself even though sometimes she didn't know which way to turn and I could read about her and her many adventure forever! There are sexy HOTT guys in this book that are swoon worthy and that you can not get enough of! This book is a MUST READ and I recommend this book to everyone that loves rad characters and an awesome story line :)Carlyle creates a world that I would so love to live in. This is a great story and I just want everyone to read it! I cannot wait till the next book to see whats going to happen next with Ava. I could go on forever so I suggest you read it!

Thanks to Caryle for being an AWESOME author and sharing this amazing story with readers like me :) I really enjoyed the ride and can't wait to read more from her!!! I'm officially a fan!!

Rating: So GOOD!!!

-Alice <3(less)

5 likes · like · see review

Oct 20, 2012 Siobhan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebooks-i-own

AMAZING book! Found it hard to put it down.
Sometimes I had to remind myself that a fellow South African wrote this.
Quality is just amazing and it was so easy to see the pictures of how the planet looks because it is written in clear, beautiful detail that you felt as if you were there.
Amazing twist that kept you on your toes and hit you unexpectedly.
I also found it very easy to relate to Ava and how she feels. Beautiful characters that you instantly fall in love with.
Cannot wait for the rest of...more

3 likes · like · see review

May 26, 2012 Sandra Valente rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, have-read, ya-dystopian-sci-fi

REVIEW
ARC RECEIVED FROM AUTHOR
TO BE RELEASED IN 2012

Before I start my review, I have to say that this was one of the toughest I have ever written - for what I thought were good reasons. You see, I had already decided that I wasn't going to review The Broken Destiny. I met Carlyle on Twitter and to make a long story short, I've removed a whole chunk of it, we met personally a few weeks after for a big old fat chat – over coffee, of course. We clicked, talk daily and Bob’s your uncle. This book is...more

9 likes · like · see review

Nov 09, 2012 Sabrina marked it as to-read

The Broken Destiny is about a world like no other, Ava is trying to figure where she belongs and who she is. You go along this journey with her and your heart goes out to her, there’s no way a reader can’t connect with Ava on some level.
Ava has always been the one that doesn’t fit into the crowd, but she has her best friend Sam who knows everything abouth her and has been there for her. Their relationship is nothing but trouble in the faculties eyes and they are determined to separate them. Alon...more

2 likes · like · see review

May 03, 2013 Emerald Barnes rated it 4 of 5 stars

Broken Destiny follows Ava, a 16 year old, who is “different.” She knows that she’s different and only wants to be normal, but she feels like she’ll never be happy. While she discovers the truth about her destiny in meeting new people after a vicious attack on her life, she finally comes to terms with her difference and accepts it despite her wishing she wasn’t different and destined to be something she never asked for.

She falls for the wrong guys; she makes mistakes; she isn’t perfect. But in...more

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 13, 2012 Ellen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tours, arc, favorites, a-z-reading-challenge-2012, 2012-dac

Prologue

Throughout my life I have been searching for something. Something I thought I ought to be. I felt like I was living someone else’s life, waiting for the awakening of my own. Like an empty shell burning for life.

That was until the day I lay dying in the Prince’s chambers. I could no longer feel the pain from the tear in my gut, only the hollowed-out feeling that I had made a huge mistake in assuming that taking my own life would have stopped the ancestor’s spirit from raging out. I gave...more Prologue

Throughout my life I have been searching for something. Something I thought I ought to be. I felt like I was living someone else’s life, waiting for the awakening of my own. Like an empty shell burning for life.

That was until the day I lay dying in the Prince’s chambers. I could no longer feel the pain from the tear in my gut, only the hollowed-out feeling that I had made a huge mistake in assuming that taking my own life would have stopped the ancestor’s spirit from raging out. I gave up, didn’t want to see myself kill the ones I loved. I was the chosen one, and threw it all away for what I thought would be to save a life. Could you end a life to save a life? I did, and have it regretted ever since. I realized then that things like me were not meant to exist. So you ask what it was that had been missing my whole life. It was I. To find myself I had to lose myself, in the worst possible way. The consequences of my actions became the legend of The Broken.

My Thoughts: This story centers around Ava, a teenage girl who just happens to be the chosen one, destined to save, even though her kind has also been called cursed. Ava lives on a planet called Poseidon. After the earth was destroyed, humans migrated here because it was much like Earth. They live here with the other inhabitants of the planet and are referred to as “The Broken.” Ava is the third generation of “The Broken,” a race of genetically enhanced human beings. Only two are known to have survived from the first generation. Most of the females from the second generation have died giving birth, and many of the second generation males have gone mad during “the change,” which occurs around puberty. With most of the first and second generations gone, that only leaves the third generation, “The Broken.” A chosen few of these will undergo the change at puberty, some go mad, others experience specially enhanced powers, and Ava, well Ava is destined, she is “The Chosen,” because within her lies the power to change the destiny of the planet, and her generation.

Ava and her best friend Sam attend the academy for the humans. Ava has always been different, she is a beautiful girl, but has always felt like she didn’t fit it. Sam has been there for her, comforting her when the nightmares come, looking out for her. They are governed by the Council, a group comprised of the different races, besides the humans, including the Minoans and the Zulu people.

One night after not being able to sleep Ava goes downstairs and encounters a strange male with a smooth voice, who she should be frightened of, but at the same time feels drawn to. She is still thinking about him the next day. The next afternoon after their game, the girls are walking with with their other Maya, who lives in the Minoan village, when a guy on a motorcycle catches Ava’s attention. There is something strangely familiar about him. She and Maya are going to the Minoan village to Maya’s house. On the way there, while crossing a bridge they are attacked by dark evil beings. Though they try to fight, Ava ends up going over the edge into the water, only to be saved by Enoch, Maya’s hot brother. Ava is also drawn to him, yet doesn’t feel as if she can trust him. This was the first attack, the beginning of the destiny that Ava had been chosen for. There is no stopping what is going to happen from this point on. It has begun. The question is, can she and those she loves survive until the end?

I really loved this story. It is a combination of dystopian, fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal romance. There is so much that goes on, it can’t possibly be contained in a review, but know that it is really good. I loved the characters. Ava is the heroine. She’s not perfect and she knows it, and she makes some bad choices, which she really beats herself up about, but she manages to pull herself out of the pit of despair and condemnation, with a little help from Troy. Ah, Troy, what can I say. He is the super hot bad boy that every girl dreams of. He and Ava have chemistry that sizzles, though they have a hard time managing to get together. So many obstacles are in their way. He may get frustrated with her, but he is always there when she needs him. Then there is Enoch. Enoch is really hot to, but he has a dark side. He is Maya’s adopted brother, but everyone warns Ava that he is bad news and to stay away from him. She doesn’t. Things seem good, then things turn bad, really bad. In the midst of all this romance, there is an evil being that is trying to abduct Ava for his own purpose to rise to into power and take over the planet. Ava and those protecting her constantly have to battle all kinds of voodoo, magic, and evil entities. Ava is also trying to learn how to access and use her powers, and keep those she loves alive.

There are so many more other great characters that you get to know in the book. All were entertaining and well written. The plot was creative, imaginative, and unique. Carlyle Labuschagne creates a fantasy world in “The Broken Destiny” that is filled with intrigue, beauty, and mystery. I found myself turning the pages, anxious to see what would happen next. Not only do you have plenty of romance and mystery, but there's also murder, battles with people and evil beings, and action galore. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you are looking for something different, love YA fantasy, paranormal romance, and science fiction, combined with a dystopian feel, then The Broken Destiny is one book you will want to check out. Carlyle Lasbuschagne has done an outstanding job with this debut novel, the first in the series, and I am looking forward to seeing where she takes the story from here. (less)

4 likes · like · see review

Aug 20, 2012 Lissette rated it 4 of 5 stars

All her life, Ava has had questions about her true existence. Questions that no one else has been able to answer for a very long time. Her mother's journal has given her a bit of insight as to who and what she is, but it hasn't been as forth-coming as she'd thought it'd be. The journal has succeeded in making her question things even more, inciting the urge she harbors deep within to find the answers to those very questions. She'd love nothing more to do just that, but the fact that no one else,...more All her life, Ava has had questions about her true existence. Questions that no one else has been able to answer for a very long time. Her mother's journal has given her a bit of insight as to who and what she is, but it hasn't been as forth-coming as she'd thought it'd be. The journal has succeeded in making her question things even more, inciting the urge she harbors deep within to find the answers to those very questions. She'd love nothing more to do just that, but the fact that no one else, aside from her best friend, knows about the journal's existence which keeps her from uttering a word about it.

Immersing herself in her studies, something she loaths to do, even though she knows it's a necessity, Ava soon realizes that people aren't quite friendly towards her. They see her as an enigma, something they can't quite explain or understand. Part of her knows this has to do with the fact that she's one of The Broken, a genetically enhanced breed created to survive evolution during the last years of Earth's existence. While not much is known about her kind, she knows there's more than meets the eye. People are whispering and she wants to know why.

Her best friend, Sam, knows about her origins. She understands the things Ava's going through, even if they can't openly talk about it. The two of them have gotten into trouble more times than Ava can count, something the school's faculty have started to become privy to. In their eyes, she and Sam need to be separated and they'll do anything to achieve that. Unfortunately, Ava's not willing to play by their rules.

Surviving an attack one day, Ava finds herself in the midst of the Minoan community, a group considered to be social outcasts. Believing that those who've saved her are truly good people, she begins to learn more about them and of where they came from. Befriending the boy who'd rescued her along with his sister, she finds herself falling under his spell. In her mind, he's her beloved savior and she's willing to give things with him a chance. Little does she know, appearances are truly deceiving.

As the secrets surrounding her existence come to light, Ava founds herself immersed in a controversy that will make or break who she truly is. With Maya's help, and that of most within Maya's community, she comes to understand that she was created for a reason. She's the key to saving their very way of life. Unfortunately, there are those who want to make sure that doesn't happen and will do anything to silence her, once and for all.

Carlyle's debut novel is quite intriguing and very thought-provoking. I loved this new spin on all things Atlantis. I really do. I think she did a wonderful job in using the lore surrounding that lost culture to craft a world that will leave the reader wanting to know more about it. We're able to relate with Ava and the predicaments she finds herself in. Her experiences with love and heartache are certainly endearing.

I found myself glued to every page and didn't put the book down until I got to the last page. Even then, I wanted to keep on reading more. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future and can't wait for what comes next with this series.(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 12, 2012 Soumi(in love with Puck) Roy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, books-i-reviewed, magic, fantasy-others

A long time after when Earth was destroyed, Poseidon is the new resident planet for human beings, along with the local Zulus and Minoans. Ava always knew she is different from others, third generation of the broken whose bloodline came from both human and Minoan. After surviving an attack from Zulus and rescued by a handsome Minoan warrior, she was brought to Minoan village where she begins to discover more about her origin and the prophecy that can change fate of the whole planate. Being carrie...more A long time after when Earth was destroyed, Poseidon is the new resident planet for human beings, along with the local Zulus and Minoans. Ava always knew she is different from others, third generation of the broken whose bloodline came from both human and Minoan. After surviving an attack from Zulus and rescued by a handsome Minoan warrior, she was brought to Minoan village where she begins to discover more about her origin and the prophecy that can change fate of the whole planate. Being carrier of the prophecy her soul is the key to a deadly weapon and her rise against fall of the evil can save the mankind. As more secrets revealed, she was drawn to Troy and Enoch, handsome worriers with secrets of their own. As she faces more life threatening danger, whom she will trust?

A complete novel with elements likes prophecies, destiny, Voodoo witches and ancient cultures, almost everything a reader needs to enjoy the book. A promising plot and strong build up with love and betrayal, twists and turns, The Broken Destiny is kind of book that will keep hooked up into pages.

As for the characters, Ava was a strong but confused young women when it came to love.I can understand the situation she was going through and she faced dangers I would never imagine, the author delivers us a kick ass heroine.
I loved Troy; he was strong, determinate with grate leadership quality and boyfriend material. I was expecting his character to be highlighted a little more. Enoch gave a damn sexy appearance with broad shoulder, strong chest and deep blue eyes hiding some secrets. I enjoyed the revelry between these two boys.
Along with the main characters each supporting characters were given equal importance and played key roles to uncover Ava’s destiny.

A richly imaginative tale and smooth writing, the book contains many surprising elements. We encounter some life or death situations that imply thrilling suspense. The final climax was jaw dropping, drawn out and there was a difficult dilemma. The author created a world with concept taken from ancient magic and modern science, being where was compelling new experience for me. I'm bouncing between 3 or 4 stars, so a 3.5 it is.
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Feb 26, 2013 Jessica rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: carlyle-labuschagne, ebook, own

I loved this book!! It had me guessing right up until the end, and had me reeling at the end of it!! Can not wait until the second book is out!! Totally Team Troy!! Great job Carlyle!!

4 likes · like · see review

Aug 29, 2012 Katrina (Kindred Dreamheart) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-reader, arc

I was on among the original bloggers due to review this novel a few months ago. The tour and release of this novel was delayed. As I reflect on all that I've read, I know that this was with “just cause”. (And thank goodness for that!) If it was majorly flawed in any way, readers would truly have missed out on an intense read. The current synopsis is an excerpt from the novel, yet does this novel no justice.

The Broken Destiny tells the legend of how the “the Chosen one” ultimately became “the Bro...more

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 23, 2013 Rhea-Amalia added it

Shelves: maybe

I read page 1, and I was like, "Info dump!"

I admit, some amazing books (like The Lord of the Rings) are info-dumpy at some point. I mean, its not easy for authors to create a complex world and manage to reveal information with careful timing while building memorable characters and keeping the storyline engaging. AND writing in gorgeous prose. AND making powerful scenes. Yeah, being a author is tough.

But the beginning was info-dumpy, the writing was clunky, and the main character had special chan...more

like · see review

Oct 24, 2012 Mimi Barbour rated it 5 of 5 stars

Broken Destiny – a book that is haunting and sad and dives into the life of Ava, a changeling who has been chosen to be a leader for her people. She needs to learn the requirements of witchcraft and understand about the prophecy in order to stand up to the witch doctor. This is to be her destiny - one she doesn't want – a role that she agonizes about continuously. After the destruction of earth, some residents escape to their dying planet called Poseidon through a magic travelling mirror and the...more

3 likes · like · see review

Aug 26, 2012 Dean Mayes rated it 4 of 5 stars

"The Broken Destiny" is a richly constructed tale, brimming with detail and narrative that draws upon classic elements of fantasy, which Carlyle has skilfully re-imagined into her own signature brand. Her characters display a dynamism and voice that are accessible and visual. They are easy to invest in and one can really foster a relationship with them - which is important as the trilogy advances. Their individual arcs are established very well and they feed from the protagonist, Ava, effortless...more

3 likes · like · see review

May 08, 2013 Lea Cherry rated it 4 of 5 stars

What to say about The Broken Destiny? Well, I would have to say that it is a fabulous book. One that I enjoyed thoroughly. It took me a while to get into the story, but could be that I had other things to deal with, but as I got into the book,I was transported to the world of Poseidon and couldn't leave the story. Carlyle did a wonderful job creating another world and building the characters. Can't wait for book 2 of the broken series.

1 like · like · see review

Aug 27, 2012 Shelagh (The Word Fiend) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, books-for-review, books-i-own, dystopian, e-book, from-author, proudly-south-african, sci-fi, romance, young-adult, indie, debut

Review from my blog: The Word Fiend

Rating: 6½

I believe that there is a lot of writing talent in South Africa, so I'm always on the lookout for something new and interesting to read from local authors. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when I first met Carlyle Labuschagne on Twitter and heard about the book she was writing, The Broken Destiny. A sci-fi YA novel written by a local author – I leapt at the chance to get my hands on a copy.

The real treasure in this debut novel is the world that C...more Review from my blog: The Word Fiend

Rating: 6½

I believe that there is a lot of writing talent in South Africa, so I'm always on the lookout for something new and interesting to read from local authors. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when I first met Carlyle Labuschagne on Twitter and heard about the book she was writing, The Broken Destiny. A sci-fi YA novel written by a local author – I leapt at the chance to get my hands on a copy.

The real treasure in this debut novel is the world that Carlyle has created. She has taken elements of sci-fi, mixed in some fantasy themes and added a sprinkling of mythology to flavour. As a result The Broken Destiny has a rich and textured landscape and history that supports the characters and the plot. I have to take my hat off to Carlyle for this achievement – fantasy and sci-fi books come alive when they have a unique world and setting and she has managed to pull this off with the ease of a seasoned writer.

One aspect of the world that I want to highlight is Carlyle's inclusion of the Zulu people in her story. I loved the nod to African culture and the slightly exotic feel they give to the book for international readers.

The Broken Destiny is a book about change and finding our place in the world. The story follows Ava, one of the third generation Broken living on Poseidon after the destruction of Earth. I have very mixed feelings about Ava, especially as she is the central character in The Broken Destiny. Her fear and confusion as unknown forces start to affect her life are effective tools to draw the reader in and engage them in the story. But I found Ava to be very self-centred which detracted from my enjoyment of the book. In fact, it was often the secondary characters who kept me wanting to read more. There is a shift in Ava's character by the end of the book, but I would have liked to see that shift and the maturity and depth it gives her start happen earlier in the story. The cast of supporting characters that Carlyle has created are great fun to read about. She has made sure to give them their own unique problems, quirks and fears and they help to carry the story.

The Broken Destiny is a promising debut novel from an exciting new voice and I look forward to seeing how Carlyle's confidence and skill continue to grow.
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Dec 24, 2012 Jeanbooknerd rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviews

Carlyle Labuschagne’s The Broken Destiny takes its readers to a planet called Poseidon, a place where the Minoans fled to when Earth became no longer habitable. At the least is what the Council has told them. Third generations of The Broken, sixteen-year-old Ava, also resides in this planet and have always felt that her existence is more than what it seems. When she begins to ask too many questions, it leads her to trouble and gets saved by a Minoan boy. Everything she has ever known is about to...more

4 likes · like · see review

May 05, 2013 Elizabeth Ziko rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

I love this book!

1 like · like · see review

Apr 01, 2013 Ia Uaro rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Broken Destiny, reviewed by Ia Uaro of http://www.sydneyssong.net/ and http://www.youtube.com/user/IaUaro

Author: Carlyle Labuschagne

ISBN: 978-1612048727 (paperback), ASIN: B009I3TE9S (eBook)

“The Broken” is a race of genetically enhanced humans, survivors of the destroyed earth who have migrated to Poseidon, an exotic dystopian planet. Three races cohabit this new planet: the Broken (humans), the Minoans, the Zulus—but strict apartheid segregation rules forbid them to interact. Poseidon is ru...more

2 likes · like · see review

Sep 26, 2012 Natalie rated it 5 of 5 stars

I have said often that Fantasy is not my normal genre of reading, but everytime I read a new Fantasy novel I am pleasantly surprised at how much I loved it, which is not a bad thing as it has kept me reading them. Carlyle has built a world, plot, story and characters like I haven't seen since I read Patti Roberts Paradox series.

It was well written, well executed, the characters fit extremely well together. The anount of effort Carlyle put into the details made me feel like I was transported rig...more

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 04, 2012 Stephenie rated it 4 of 5 stars

I won't go too much into the synopsis of the story as you can read the blurb above. The Broken Destiny is an EPIC mix of sci-fi, fantasy and dystopian genres. It follows a young girl named Ava, who after being attacked by Zulus finds out that she is destined for great things and from here we follow her on her journey of discovery.

One of the great things about this novel is the setting. The planet Poseidon is a very unique and interesting setting. It's magical and yet very sic-fi at the same time...more

2 likes · like · see review

Sep 19, 2012 Krishna rated it 4 of 5 stars

This book review was originally posted on my blog
Journey with Books

What I Liked:

-I liked the complexity of the whole plot. Everything seemed so thought out and planned out. It was very well written.

-The characters seems so complex. Everyone has a dark side. I liked that Ava wasn't perfect. She's the type of heroine, you wouldn't like instantly. She's the type that would grow on you. Ava is a strong girl but she's confused a lot of times. She's very frustrating but you empathize with what she's...more

3 likes · like · see review

Sep 17, 2012 Michelle rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle, blog-tour, review-on-blog

This book is great for fans of fantasy that really like to explore new worlds. The world that Carlyle Labuschagne created is complex and really interesting. I wanted to learn even more about it than we did. I can't wait to explore her world more in the next book in the Broken series. The Broken Destiny is kind of futuristic, kind of dysotpian, and kind of coming of age. It is the story of Ava, a young girl who is different than everyone else. The story really is all about her growth.

Ava starts...more This book is great for fans of fantasy that really like to explore new worlds. The world that Carlyle Labuschagne created is complex and really interesting. I wanted to learn even more about it than we did. I can't wait to explore her world more in the next book in the Broken series. The Broken Destiny is kind of futuristic, kind of dysotpian, and kind of coming of age. It is the story of Ava, a young girl who is different than everyone else. The story really is all about her growth.

Ava starts out as a victim almost. She stated that she had been raped, although she never really goes into the details or background of it, and she is attacked and captured multiple times throughout the story. She didn't really fight back at all at first, but by the end of the book she showed so much growth! I really grew attached to her by the end of the book. The boys in this book confused and infuriated me at times. I couldn't really get a read on either of them. I would have liked to really gotten to know them a little bit better and seen their interactions with Ava more. Sometimes one of them would say something that would really catch my attention, and then it was never brought up or explained again. The romance kind of took the background here. I didn't feel like Ava had much of a real connection with either guy to be honest. I hope to get to know more about Troy. I feel like he was absent from so much of this book, even when he was there. I love a good sci-fi, which this totally is but I would like a little more romance thrown in for good measure :)

The world building and plot are the real stars of The Broken Destiny. I loved how complex and interwoven everything was in the story. I would have liked a little bit more setup on the lay of the land, or lands. Just some back ground on what the different types of people were, the chosen one, the broken- that kind of thing. You can figure it all out yourself, as all the details are woven into the story but it does get a little confusing at times without knowing this stuff when you start reading the book. For example, at least twice when Ava was attacked she woke up in a different place days later. The plot kind of just jumped with no warning at all, so it left me a bit disoriented. I understand that we were seeing it all from Ava's perspective, and she was confused and disoriented about where she was and what time had passed, and from that aspect I loved it. But I was still a little confused while I was reading.

I loved the idea of the prophesy and I can't wait to uncover more of these secrets that the council are hiding from everyone. I loved all the twists and turns and each time a new secret got uncovered or a new piece of information was learned, I got a little more excited. If you are a fan of Sci-fi, fantasy or dystopian, I would check out The Broken Destiny.(less)

1 like · like · see review

May 17, 2013 D.H. Nevins rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: debut-novel, ya, sci-fi

This is a fun YA story that flits between the genres of science fiction and fantasy to bring us to the purple world of Poseidon, where magic secretly pervades the world of technology, and genetically modified people live side-by-side with those who prefer more ancient ways.

The main protagonist, Ava, shows incredible growth as the story progresses. I was impressed by how the author slowly transforms her from a morose, self-absorbed teen into a powerful, sensitive being. The fact that Ms. Labuscha...more This is a fun YA story that flits between the genres of science fiction and fantasy to bring us to the purple world of Poseidon, where magic secretly pervades the world of technology, and genetically modified people live side-by-side with those who prefer more ancient ways.

The main protagonist, Ava, shows incredible growth as the story progresses. I was impressed by how the author slowly transforms her from a morose, self-absorbed teen into a powerful, sensitive being. The fact that Ms. Labuschagne does this convincingly is a testament to her character development and writing ability. In fact, all the characters were well-rounded and incredibly believable, and their teen friendships were deep and authentic. And speaking of characters, I simply must mention Troy. This guy has a magnetic, mysterious personality, a bad-boy demeanor and incredible good looks. He’s the quintessential love interest, and I must admit I enjoyed every moment he appeared on those pages.

Themes of overcoming prejudice and segregation are woven nicely into the text, and Ava demonstrates her own skewed scrutiny of these issues through a first person point of view. You can see her perspective slowly changing over time, which is fascinating. I find it interesting that although the setting is a distant planet, the only colonists on the island herald from South Africa and not from anywhere else on Earth. The people on Poseidon were written to have deep prejudices against each other (which they managed to overcome), and I am left wondering in the author focused solely on South African people in order to make a statement about this. If that is the case, then overall, I believe it was done tactfully and with grace.

Ms. Labuschagne is a natural writer. Despite some issues with sentence structure, she has a strong voice, which alternates between a compelling narrative and language that borders on the poetic. Her prose was a joy to read and her story-telling ability was exceptional. I am certainly looking forward to reading the sequel.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 18, 2013 Heather andrews rated it 5 of 5 stars

One Word: Troy! "I trailed my eyes over chiseled abs bulging through his gray vest coming to rest on his very rock-hard chest." I know the story is about Ava and her journey, but honestly all I could think about was Troy, (Very bad of me I know haha) I loved when he got pissed it was very very naughty and I liked it! "You're a selfish prick, a coward, and a little wimp with little sissy girl issues," Troy said. "I knew it from the first moment I saw you." I also loved how playful Ava and Troy we...more

1 like · like · see review

Jul 28, 2012 Amber rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebook, review

Wow!!! Amazing!! The journey you go on with Ava is so surreal. she has real life issues, and you share those with her through out the story. I am not one who usually likes sci-fi but The Broken Destiny is a must read!! It's full of drama, action packed and once you start, you can't put the book (or in my case ereader) down. Loved it!! I really can't say enough about this book. You will not be disappointed by it that's for sure. The Broken Destiny is about a world like no other, Ava is trying to...more

4 likes · like · see review

Jan 09, 2013 Tania Elizabeth rated it 5 of 5 stars

Through loosing herself she found herself.
A sci-fi urban fantasy fiction that will undoubtedly capture and enthrall you upon every page. I found this book to be an admirable and inspiring read as I followed the foot steps of a young woman by the name of Ava. I became in awe of of Ava’s strength and determination. Even in her times of despair, her constant battle of all she felt she had been deprived and of the need for others validation; she always held strong the hunger and the necessity for mo...more

2 likes · like · see review

Aug 05, 2012 Claire rated it 4 of 5 stars

What it's about: A girl, who is the 'Chosen One' has to find herself, in order to move forward, to fulfill her destiny.

What I thought: This is a wonderful combination of many different elements - Dystopian, voodoo, witches, and hunky saviours.

the good: Ava is such a wonderful character! She really brings this story to life with her adventure! She not only has to deal with threats against her life, but normal teenage angst as well - you can see this from the very beginning! Enoch, umm yes. Hunky...more

4 likes · like · see review

Dec 30, 2011 Alisha rated it 5 of 5 stars

Ms. Labuschagne is one super talented story teller! I highly recommend this book! Don't pass this gem over!

Alisha Paige
Author of the best selling Circle City series
www.alishapaige.com

5 likes · like · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 99 100 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

There are no discussion topics on this book yet. Be the first to start one »

Recommend it | Stats | Recent status updates

Videos About This Book

1 comment

Add a comment

Genres

Young Adult

9 users

Science Fiction > Dystopia

7 users

Science Fiction

7 users

Fantasy

7 users

Fantasy > Paranormal

5 users

Romance

3 users

Romance > Paranormal Romance

3 users

Fantasy > Supernatural

2 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Carlyle Labuschagne

Carlyle Labuschagne is a South African Debut Author working her way into the hearts of international readers with her First Novel “The Broken Destiny. She is not only an author but works as PR and Marketing Manager by day. She holds a diploma in creative writing through the writing school at Collage SA. Loves to swim, fights for the trees, food lover who is driven by passion. Carlyle writes for IU...more

More about Carlyle Labuschagne...

Books by Carlyle Labuschagne

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About The Broken Destiny

1 quiz

More quizzes & trivia...

Quotes from The Broken Destiny

“With him I couldn’t be anything but myself and that scared the crap out of me, because I had never existed like that before.” — 14 people liked it

“I had evolved a year too soon, and it nearly broke me” — 6 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: The Broken Destiny
avg rating	preview: The Broken Destiny Goodreads rating: 4.24 (86 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12537426-the-broken-destiny?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1343397680l/12537426.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12537426-the-broken-destiny?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Broken Destiny by Carlyle Labuschagne[/url]

The Broken Destiny (Broken #1)

Win a Copy of This Book

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website