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Broken Moon #1
Broken Moon
Reader recommended for fans of RED QUEEN, THE HUNGER GAMES and DIVERGENT.
Souls are real … but they’re an endangered species. Only one girl can save us all, and predictably, she really doesn’t want to.
Living a thousand feet above the ground in metal slums piled upon the detritus of decades, Naiya Barrigan makes a decent living culling through the wreckage of 21st century humanity and selling what she finds to the highest bidder.
But that doesn’t mean life is demonic guards stalk the streets, mothers owe their firstborn children to the authoritarian Party, and Naiya’s pregnant sister has just turned up bone-thin, childless and dead.
This disturbing incident kicks off other revelations, such as Naiya’s membership in the ancient family line that oversees the link between the mortal world and Terminus, where souls await rebirth between lives. Unfortunately, the Party has discovered this too, and soon Naiya is on the run.
For help she has only a numbers-obsessed, slightly autistic brainiac, a hulking spy from the outside and an adopted brother toward whom she feels anything but sisterly. In a city fast becoming a death trap, she must figure out how to use the newfound magic she doesn’t even want and escape the place she’s always called home.
Elements of horror, urban fantasy and theology intertwine in this fast-paced adventure, culminating in a revelation that will haunt Naiya for the rest of her life … though her journey is far from over.
Don’t miss out on the ultimate teen fantasy metaphysical thrill ride.
Souls are real … but they’re an endangered species. Only one girl can save us all, and predictably, she really doesn’t want to.
Living a thousand feet above the ground in metal slums piled upon the detritus of decades, Naiya Barrigan makes a decent living culling through the wreckage of 21st century humanity and selling what she finds to the highest bidder.
But that doesn’t mean life is demonic guards stalk the streets, mothers owe their firstborn children to the authoritarian Party, and Naiya’s pregnant sister has just turned up bone-thin, childless and dead.
This disturbing incident kicks off other revelations, such as Naiya’s membership in the ancient family line that oversees the link between the mortal world and Terminus, where souls await rebirth between lives. Unfortunately, the Party has discovered this too, and soon Naiya is on the run.
For help she has only a numbers-obsessed, slightly autistic brainiac, a hulking spy from the outside and an adopted brother toward whom she feels anything but sisterly. In a city fast becoming a death trap, she must figure out how to use the newfound magic she doesn’t even want and escape the place she’s always called home.
Elements of horror, urban fantasy and theology intertwine in this fast-paced adventure, culminating in a revelation that will haunt Naiya for the rest of her life … though her journey is far from over.
Don’t miss out on the ultimate teen fantasy metaphysical thrill ride.
- GenresYoung AdultDystopia
452 pages, ebook
Published November 21, 2017
1 person is currently reading
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 15, 2018
I enjoyed this novel, Aspects of the book reminded me of divergent and maze runner but overall I found the story to be really unique. The world the Sarah created from the physical structure to the politics was quite different to anything I have read before.
I also liked the charecters in this book the bond between naiya, enoch and pip was filled with love and I admired the lengths that they went to, to protect each other.
I liked naiya becuse unlike so many books where some life changing event happens and the main charecter becomes some superhero straight away, naiya didn't , she showed that she was just human, she was scared and confused but she also stepped up to the task the best she could to ensure the safety of her brothers.
The book was packed with action, they were always on the move, breaking into official buildings and trying to remain off the radar. There were a lot of intense parts in the novel that really had me immersed in the story. It was a good book I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next and I would recommend it if you enjoy dystopian fantasy.
I also liked the charecters in this book the bond between naiya, enoch and pip was filled with love and I admired the lengths that they went to, to protect each other.
I liked naiya becuse unlike so many books where some life changing event happens and the main charecter becomes some superhero straight away, naiya didn't , she showed that she was just human, she was scared and confused but she also stepped up to the task the best she could to ensure the safety of her brothers.
The book was packed with action, they were always on the move, breaking into official buildings and trying to remain off the radar. There were a lot of intense parts in the novel that really had me immersed in the story. It was a good book I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next and I would recommend it if you enjoy dystopian fantasy.
March 14, 2018
It had been a long time since I’d read a YA dystopian novel, so Broken Moon was a bit of an introduction back into this side of the YA realm for me! But this one also had a lot to do with character relationships and self-confidence, so let’s dive right in to the nitty-gritty details.
The plot of this book follows the usual formula for dystopia with a little twist to it. Although the characters do come to understand that there is corruption in the society they have been living in, the corruption may not be only within the figures of authority that are running the society. The problem runs a little bit deeper than that, and I appreciated that there was a bit of a twist to the usual dystopian revolution kind of formula.
As well as that, there comes in a bit of the magical or fantasy side of things… combined with science. There seems to be a scientific problem developing involving experiments which the public are entirely unaware of. But on top of that, the main character, Naiya, starts to develop some powers. Her powers are a bit unclear to us at the current moment (this is the first book in a series after all) and she is only just discovering them. But I was quite curious from what we get to see in this book and would like to know more about it in the sequel!
I am always looking for a connection to the characters for me to feel entirely invested in a book. I had some things about the characters I really liked, but then there were some which I didn’t like so much? For example, I loved Naiya’s dedication to her family and how much she loves them. It is clear that she would do anything to protect those close to her, and I think we are similar in that way! But I also feel like sometimes she made irrational choices – which she should be allowed to do! We all make mistakes. But I felt that occasionally she was aware that she was acting out without needing to but did it anyway. That bothered me a little. Enoch and Pip are her brothers, who she is traveling with. It would be hard to not like Pip as he a cute little bundle of youth. I also did like Enoch as he was someone who incredibly loyal and smart. I think the flaws to his character could be a little bit more fleshed out – I could see them there under the surface but he could become too perfect of a character if we don’t get to see more of them in the next book.
Along the journey they encounter more people, and pick up some interesting secondary characters. Some of them don’t stick around too long and some are there for the long haul – those new additions are characters I am looking forward to seeing more of in the next book!
The romance was not working for me. Although Enoch is her adopted brother Naiya has a crush on him. I don’t know why it didn’t bother me too much in Twilight or even The Mortal Instruments, but it bothered me a bit here? I don’t ship them together at all. The book didn’t really show whether they will or won’t work things out to end up together, either. I personally hope they don’t… And I didn’t appreciate jealous-Naiya at all. She kinda bothered me too >.>
But the world building was done incredibly well here! It’s a dystopian society so it is different from our own. The author never info-dumps, but I got beautiful descriptions of the places their journey took them too, and how the world functioned. I really liked the idea of a broken moon hanging there through the night – something about that aesthetically pleased my mind. It was also interesting to see how all the ‘layers’ worked. Really well done!
Relevance to today: I think the relevance of this novel is a reminder to always question authority. Whoever is in authority does have a impact on how you live your life and what you are able to do. It’s why votes matter, and politics matter. This novel reminded me that you should always be asking who is the true authority in your country, what their values and goals are for the you as a society and themselves…
This review and others can be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: http://oliviascatastrophe.com/2018/03...
The plot of this book follows the usual formula for dystopia with a little twist to it. Although the characters do come to understand that there is corruption in the society they have been living in, the corruption may not be only within the figures of authority that are running the society. The problem runs a little bit deeper than that, and I appreciated that there was a bit of a twist to the usual dystopian revolution kind of formula.
As well as that, there comes in a bit of the magical or fantasy side of things… combined with science. There seems to be a scientific problem developing involving experiments which the public are entirely unaware of. But on top of that, the main character, Naiya, starts to develop some powers. Her powers are a bit unclear to us at the current moment (this is the first book in a series after all) and she is only just discovering them. But I was quite curious from what we get to see in this book and would like to know more about it in the sequel!
I am always looking for a connection to the characters for me to feel entirely invested in a book. I had some things about the characters I really liked, but then there were some which I didn’t like so much? For example, I loved Naiya’s dedication to her family and how much she loves them. It is clear that she would do anything to protect those close to her, and I think we are similar in that way! But I also feel like sometimes she made irrational choices – which she should be allowed to do! We all make mistakes. But I felt that occasionally she was aware that she was acting out without needing to but did it anyway. That bothered me a little. Enoch and Pip are her brothers, who she is traveling with. It would be hard to not like Pip as he a cute little bundle of youth. I also did like Enoch as he was someone who incredibly loyal and smart. I think the flaws to his character could be a little bit more fleshed out – I could see them there under the surface but he could become too perfect of a character if we don’t get to see more of them in the next book.
Along the journey they encounter more people, and pick up some interesting secondary characters. Some of them don’t stick around too long and some are there for the long haul – those new additions are characters I am looking forward to seeing more of in the next book!
The romance was not working for me. Although Enoch is her adopted brother Naiya has a crush on him. I don’t know why it didn’t bother me too much in Twilight or even The Mortal Instruments, but it bothered me a bit here? I don’t ship them together at all. The book didn’t really show whether they will or won’t work things out to end up together, either. I personally hope they don’t… And I didn’t appreciate jealous-Naiya at all. She kinda bothered me too >.>
But the world building was done incredibly well here! It’s a dystopian society so it is different from our own. The author never info-dumps, but I got beautiful descriptions of the places their journey took them too, and how the world functioned. I really liked the idea of a broken moon hanging there through the night – something about that aesthetically pleased my mind. It was also interesting to see how all the ‘layers’ worked. Really well done!
Relevance to today: I think the relevance of this novel is a reminder to always question authority. Whoever is in authority does have a impact on how you live your life and what you are able to do. It’s why votes matter, and politics matter. This novel reminded me that you should always be asking who is the true authority in your country, what their values and goals are for the you as a society and themselves…
This review and others can be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: http://oliviascatastrophe.com/2018/03...
January 6, 2018
A different look at a dystopia world where souls await new births between their lives in a place called Terminus. A place where the "government" takes heed and makes clones in order to meet numbers. Naiya, her adoptive brothers, Pip and Enoch, are on the run after Naiya and Enoch find themselves running into one of these "clones"... their own sister.
There are definitely notes of your typical YA, dystopia novel. We have Naiya, a girl who finds out that she has special powers and becomes the unwilling hero. A love triangle of sorts - weirdly with her adoptive brother.. and the choices she must make - giving herself up, saying goodbye, letting people go. There are also unique notes to the book. We get a little bit of Ganesh (love that!), the Bible (which is a relic in this world) and reincarnation. All of which definitely piqued my interest.
I do wish there was a little bit more world building. I wanted to know more about the politics and the whys of the Mayor and the evil doctor. This didn't make the book any less enjoyable - it's a nod to the author that I actually want to know more intricate details because I did become invested!
Enoch felt like a bit of a dud within the book. There's no chemistry between Naiya and Enoch - we only know of her feelings because she tells you in her thoughts. He didn't have much dialogue or made much of an impact for me. I'm thinking maybe this will come to head in the next book. My favorite character is Pip - we know he is a child and he is marked, which causes him to act robotically and dangerously in some scenes, while still very childlike in others. I have to remind myself sometimes when reading Naiya's thoughts, that she too is still young and therefore we are going to see those selfish thoughts and unreliable notions that run through her head.
Every time I saw the word Terminus, this reminded me of the Walking Dead. I couldn't help myself. But really, it makes sense even if my mind goes there. The undead wandering. Works for me! 😄 I feel this was almost like purgatory.
All in all, I did enjoy this YA dystopia. While some places seemed to jump here and there, I loved the premise behind it and what the author was bringing to the table. It's clear she knows how to write and I did find some descriptors very humorous, it was always in the best way and a nod to the world she created. If you are into YA, fantasy, dystopia type reads, you should definitely give this one a chance.
Thank you to the author for my copy in return for my honest review.
There are definitely notes of your typical YA, dystopia novel. We have Naiya, a girl who finds out that she has special powers and becomes the unwilling hero. A love triangle of sorts - weirdly with her adoptive brother.. and the choices she must make - giving herself up, saying goodbye, letting people go. There are also unique notes to the book. We get a little bit of Ganesh (love that!), the Bible (which is a relic in this world) and reincarnation. All of which definitely piqued my interest.
I do wish there was a little bit more world building. I wanted to know more about the politics and the whys of the Mayor and the evil doctor. This didn't make the book any less enjoyable - it's a nod to the author that I actually want to know more intricate details because I did become invested!
Enoch felt like a bit of a dud within the book. There's no chemistry between Naiya and Enoch - we only know of her feelings because she tells you in her thoughts. He didn't have much dialogue or made much of an impact for me. I'm thinking maybe this will come to head in the next book. My favorite character is Pip - we know he is a child and he is marked, which causes him to act robotically and dangerously in some scenes, while still very childlike in others. I have to remind myself sometimes when reading Naiya's thoughts, that she too is still young and therefore we are going to see those selfish thoughts and unreliable notions that run through her head.
Every time I saw the word Terminus, this reminded me of the Walking Dead. I couldn't help myself. But really, it makes sense even if my mind goes there. The undead wandering. Works for me! 😄 I feel this was almost like purgatory.
All in all, I did enjoy this YA dystopia. While some places seemed to jump here and there, I loved the premise behind it and what the author was bringing to the table. It's clear she knows how to write and I did find some descriptors very humorous, it was always in the best way and a nod to the world she created. If you are into YA, fantasy, dystopia type reads, you should definitely give this one a chance.
Thank you to the author for my copy in return for my honest review.
November 30, 2017
*The author sent me a ARC of this book for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I adore Sarah. I am not sure how I got lucky enough to receive a ARC of her newest book but, thanking whatever Goddess put that into motion. BROKEN MOON is an amazing adventure. You get an instant "Big Brother is watching" feel and the creepiness doesn't stop there. I think that was actually my favorite part. The certain unpredictability of The Party and their sure creepiness. Although the story line feels familiar, with the dystopia-ness and the lead girl who has a rare ability, there were things throughout the book that set this story apart from all those other stories. Mainly that Naiya feels real. She thinks and acts and feels as though she really is human and not a made up badass from the mind of another badass female. Secondly, the story is really unique. It's dark and twisty and I was left guessing for most of the book, and then, BAM! The fight scenes are packed and I was constantly on the edge of my seat reading. The character development felt natural, not just for Naiya, but for all the characters. That is something really important for me in a book that has characters continually growing. This was overall a fantastic read. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a darker book, a fan of dystopia, sci-fi, and fantasy. It's a book you wont forget anytime soon.
I adore Sarah. I am not sure how I got lucky enough to receive a ARC of her newest book but, thanking whatever Goddess put that into motion. BROKEN MOON is an amazing adventure. You get an instant "Big Brother is watching" feel and the creepiness doesn't stop there. I think that was actually my favorite part. The certain unpredictability of The Party and their sure creepiness. Although the story line feels familiar, with the dystopia-ness and the lead girl who has a rare ability, there were things throughout the book that set this story apart from all those other stories. Mainly that Naiya feels real. She thinks and acts and feels as though she really is human and not a made up badass from the mind of another badass female. Secondly, the story is really unique. It's dark and twisty and I was left guessing for most of the book, and then, BAM! The fight scenes are packed and I was constantly on the edge of my seat reading. The character development felt natural, not just for Naiya, but for all the characters. That is something really important for me in a book that has characters continually growing. This was overall a fantastic read. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a darker book, a fan of dystopia, sci-fi, and fantasy. It's a book you wont forget anytime soon.
December 20, 2017
3.5-3.75 STARS
**Book provided free by the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
I’ve read a lot of mediocre-to-rubbish dystopians in my time, and in all honesty by this point I try to avoid them as much as possible. This one though, this one said it involved souls becoming extinct; when Sarah reached out to me offering me the book I couldn’t refuse it now, could I! And I’m so glad I didn’t, this book was a lot of fun and actually, the more I think about it and let my feeling solidify, the better objectively I think it is too. It did give me some pretty strong Divergent vibes, so if that’s your thing I definitely recommend it.
Okay so first of all, this book is everything that is good about the Chosen One trope. Naiya is a great main character and deals very realistically with the events and experiences of the plot. She never planned to have the fate of the world on her shoulders, and she never expected supernatural powers, but now she’s got both and she deals with them just as anyone would. I also really liked the way the powers were introduced so subtly. Naiya herself barely noticed the first time she used them, and that was great because it’s perfectly reasonable not to assume that crazy magic came from you! I loved that she is coming gradually into her own abilities and I’m hopeful for a training montage in Book 2!
Naiya is imperfect, just like any of us; whiny and selfish at times, but who isn’t, especially when they’ve been on the run and hiding for days with very little to eat? At her core though, she’s kind and humble and unsure, and she loves her family deeply. Her interactions with other characters were also great, particularly her sister, Amy, and younger brother, Pip, who I can’t wait to see more of in the second book. [Side note: the synopsis says one of the characters is ‘slightly autistic’ – I can’t emphasise enough the slightly. Until I read that, after I’d finished the book, I didn’t even realise they were supposed to be autistic at all; don’t go in expecting autism representation.]
The worldbuilding was well-done. I could easily create a mental map of the city and an image of the area. The plot was engaging, if a little cliched. It did suffer slightly from pacing issues – the first few and last few chapters were fast-paced and action-packed but there seemed to be a lot of general ‘being on the run’ in the middle that I do think could have been condensed. With that said, it did give us a good chance to get to know the main characters and I’m hopeful that the next few books will be more dynamic now that we’ve had that introduction.
The one thing that really annoyed me about this book was the romance. Naiya has a huge crush on her foster-brother, Enoch, which would be fine except that she kept mentioning it practically every time she looked at him. Every time they brushed together she lost her ability to function and there was some mention of how her skin burned (I do wonder, if this is linked to her magic, but either way without any explanation it was still irritating.)
This book was a really enjoyable, quick read. It’s not my favourite book ever, and it won’t change your life, but it was entertaining and unique and I can’t wait for the sequel!
**Book provided free by the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
I’ve read a lot of mediocre-to-rubbish dystopians in my time, and in all honesty by this point I try to avoid them as much as possible. This one though, this one said it involved souls becoming extinct; when Sarah reached out to me offering me the book I couldn’t refuse it now, could I! And I’m so glad I didn’t, this book was a lot of fun and actually, the more I think about it and let my feeling solidify, the better objectively I think it is too. It did give me some pretty strong Divergent vibes, so if that’s your thing I definitely recommend it.
Okay so first of all, this book is everything that is good about the Chosen One trope. Naiya is a great main character and deals very realistically with the events and experiences of the plot. She never planned to have the fate of the world on her shoulders, and she never expected supernatural powers, but now she’s got both and she deals with them just as anyone would. I also really liked the way the powers were introduced so subtly. Naiya herself barely noticed the first time she used them, and that was great because it’s perfectly reasonable not to assume that crazy magic came from you! I loved that she is coming gradually into her own abilities and I’m hopeful for a training montage in Book 2!
Naiya is imperfect, just like any of us; whiny and selfish at times, but who isn’t, especially when they’ve been on the run and hiding for days with very little to eat? At her core though, she’s kind and humble and unsure, and she loves her family deeply. Her interactions with other characters were also great, particularly her sister, Amy, and younger brother, Pip, who I can’t wait to see more of in the second book. [Side note: the synopsis says one of the characters is ‘slightly autistic’ – I can’t emphasise enough the slightly. Until I read that, after I’d finished the book, I didn’t even realise they were supposed to be autistic at all; don’t go in expecting autism representation.]
The worldbuilding was well-done. I could easily create a mental map of the city and an image of the area. The plot was engaging, if a little cliched. It did suffer slightly from pacing issues – the first few and last few chapters were fast-paced and action-packed but there seemed to be a lot of general ‘being on the run’ in the middle that I do think could have been condensed. With that said, it did give us a good chance to get to know the main characters and I’m hopeful that the next few books will be more dynamic now that we’ve had that introduction.
The one thing that really annoyed me about this book was the romance. Naiya has a huge crush on her foster-brother, Enoch, which would be fine except that she kept mentioning it practically every time she looked at him. Every time they brushed together she lost her ability to function and there was some mention of how her skin burned (I do wonder, if this is linked to her magic, but either way without any explanation it was still irritating.)
This book was a really enjoyable, quick read. It’s not my favourite book ever, and it won’t change your life, but it was entertaining and unique and I can’t wait for the sequel!
November 18, 2017
Disclaimer: I received an ebook ARC of Broken Moon from the Author in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"Broken Moon" is a YA Dystopian/Fantasy novel taking place in a futuristic city, walled off from the outside world and built up in a stacked metal tower of factories and slums. Following the mysterious death of their sister, Naiya Barrigan and her adoptive brothers, Enoch and Pip, embark on a journey to solve the mystery of Naiya's true identity, what Terminus is, and why The Party is so invested in finding it. Danger lurks around every corner as they are on the run from The Party and their demonic guards, making this a thrilling, suspense-filled adventure. "Broken Moon" is filled with love, loss, family, government secrets, evil scientists, mystery and magic. Moore's writing seamlessly blends all of these components into an enrapturing story, filled with characters you won't soon forget.
"Broken Moon" is a YA Dystopian/Fantasy novel taking place in a futuristic city, walled off from the outside world and built up in a stacked metal tower of factories and slums. Following the mysterious death of their sister, Naiya Barrigan and her adoptive brothers, Enoch and Pip, embark on a journey to solve the mystery of Naiya's true identity, what Terminus is, and why The Party is so invested in finding it. Danger lurks around every corner as they are on the run from The Party and their demonic guards, making this a thrilling, suspense-filled adventure. "Broken Moon" is filled with love, loss, family, government secrets, evil scientists, mystery and magic. Moore's writing seamlessly blends all of these components into an enrapturing story, filled with characters you won't soon forget.
December 3, 2017
*I've received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
It's so tough to rate this, and once again I wish Goodreads did half stars. It looks like I'm quite critical, but I really enjoyed this story and I would rate it 3.5/3.75 stars, if only Goodreads allowed it.
I usually try to steer clear from dystopians. They're not really my genre (I mean, I STILL haven't read The Hunger Games or Divergent). Going into this story I thought it was more a fantasy than a dystopian. It was the other way around and I found myself pleasantly surprised.
The plot was interesting and fast paced. Before I decided to pick it up, I felt myself going into a reading slump, but I've read this book in 3 days (I had work and a staff party, so I really didn't have time to read and yet I devoured Broken Moon in no time). I got really invested in the world and the mystery our characters were trying to solve.
Another thing I really liked about it was the world. Although I'd like a bit more world building (because I ALWAYS want more, it's a given), I understood a lot about it, about the politics and the societies and I could easily imagine how everything looked. The descriptions were vivid and full of imagery. And as it is only the first book in a quartet (correct me if I'm wrong) it's understandable we got the introduction to the world rather than a full on description with all the details.
I liked the writing... except for the dialogue nearing the end of the book. Like I mentioned already, the descriptions were very vivid without being overdone, so they didn't slow down the pacing. Most of the dialogue was fine and read really natural, but it fell a bit flat where it was meant build a lot of suspense.
My favourite characters were Pip and Amy and yeah, I know it's weird. They both had amazing story arcs I'd like the author to expand on. My least favourite character was Enoch. He was bland and, genuinely, I don't think he adds to the story at all.
Which brings me to the bit I didn't like at all - the love aspect. I'm not even going to talk about the fact that the two characters are adoptive siblings (about which I read in the synopsis and which slightly scared me going into the book), because I guess even that part could've been possibly executed better. All I have to say about it is... There's no chemistry. No spark, whatsoever. If Naiya didn't tell us she has the hots for her adoptive brother we would not know about it, because there's nothing there. She tells us she's blushing because she likes him. But we don't know why she likes him. And it is never explained why Naiya feels about her adoptive family as her real family, but not of Enoch as her real brother.
I'm interested to see how the story unfolds in the next installments, as there's so much more to know and discover about the world. I'm very happy the author contacted me and sent me their book as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
It's so tough to rate this, and once again I wish Goodreads did half stars. It looks like I'm quite critical, but I really enjoyed this story and I would rate it 3.5/3.75 stars, if only Goodreads allowed it.
I usually try to steer clear from dystopians. They're not really my genre (I mean, I STILL haven't read The Hunger Games or Divergent). Going into this story I thought it was more a fantasy than a dystopian. It was the other way around and I found myself pleasantly surprised.
The plot was interesting and fast paced. Before I decided to pick it up, I felt myself going into a reading slump, but I've read this book in 3 days (I had work and a staff party, so I really didn't have time to read and yet I devoured Broken Moon in no time). I got really invested in the world and the mystery our characters were trying to solve.
Another thing I really liked about it was the world. Although I'd like a bit more world building (because I ALWAYS want more, it's a given), I understood a lot about it, about the politics and the societies and I could easily imagine how everything looked. The descriptions were vivid and full of imagery. And as it is only the first book in a quartet (correct me if I'm wrong) it's understandable we got the introduction to the world rather than a full on description with all the details.
I liked the writing... except for the dialogue nearing the end of the book. Like I mentioned already, the descriptions were very vivid without being overdone, so they didn't slow down the pacing. Most of the dialogue was fine and read really natural, but it fell a bit flat where it was meant build a lot of suspense.
My favourite characters were Pip and Amy and yeah, I know it's weird. They both had amazing story arcs I'd like the author to expand on. My least favourite character was Enoch. He was bland and, genuinely, I don't think he adds to the story at all.
Which brings me to the bit I didn't like at all - the love aspect. I'm not even going to talk about the fact that the two characters are adoptive siblings (about which I read in the synopsis and which slightly scared me going into the book), because I guess even that part could've been possibly executed better. All I have to say about it is... There's no chemistry. No spark, whatsoever. If Naiya didn't tell us she has the hots for her adoptive brother we would not know about it, because there's nothing there. She tells us she's blushing because she likes him. But we don't know why she likes him. And it is never explained why Naiya feels about her adoptive family as her real family, but not of Enoch as her real brother.
I'm interested to see how the story unfolds in the next installments, as there's so much more to know and discover about the world. I'm very happy the author contacted me and sent me their book as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 17, 2018
3.5/5🌟
***The author sent me a digital copy of this book for my honest review***
First of all I'd like to thank the author for entrusting me one of her works. I also wanted to thank Sarah for having such a patience with me lol (I'm so sorry for making you wait for so long for this review). This is the first fantasy book that I read in english... Complete! And I'm so happy!!!!
Now, going to what really matters... I must make a big confession, I'm not a huge fan of the dystopian novels but I have to cofess that I enjoyed so much reading this book. It was a little bit difficult to read sometimes because I didn't understand some keywords and I couldn't follow the reading until I went in search of my good friend: the Google translator. Beyond that, the reading is agile and understandable for readers who don't speak english (just like me!). The story is interesting, the characters are adorable and the final left me wanting to know what will happen next. Regarding the plot, since I have to be honest, I felt a little bit boring at the beginning and I felt that certain parts weren't necessary. There were also some scenes that were a bit confusing to me, but then something happened that made sense, so it's not a big deal. I loved all the mystery the author gave to the story, when everything seemed to be fine ... bam! Something terrible was happening. I just loved it!
Regarding the characters, I adored them, mostly. In my opinion Nayia is a very good heroine, she is very sweet but strong at the same time. She is definitely one of my favorites characters of this book. While at first I had my doubts about Tate, I will admit that she quickly became my favorite character. Like Pip (who, by the way, I would like to know what happened to him), he's like Nayia, adorable and strong as hell, I love this little cutie pie. Something that bothered me a bit was the relationship between Nayia and Enoch, it was something strange and the impossible love felt by Nayia towards Enoch seemed unnecessary to me. But, as I said, that is my
opinion.
Concluding, I liked the book and it reminded me of the old days when I read books like The Hunger Games or Divergent.
***The author sent me a digital copy of this book for my honest review***
First of all I'd like to thank the author for entrusting me one of her works. I also wanted to thank Sarah for having such a patience with me lol (I'm so sorry for making you wait for so long for this review). This is the first fantasy book that I read in english... Complete! And I'm so happy!!!!
Now, going to what really matters... I must make a big confession, I'm not a huge fan of the dystopian novels but I have to cofess that I enjoyed so much reading this book. It was a little bit difficult to read sometimes because I didn't understand some keywords and I couldn't follow the reading until I went in search of my good friend: the Google translator. Beyond that, the reading is agile and understandable for readers who don't speak english (just like me!). The story is interesting, the characters are adorable and the final left me wanting to know what will happen next. Regarding the plot, since I have to be honest, I felt a little bit boring at the beginning and I felt that certain parts weren't necessary. There were also some scenes that were a bit confusing to me, but then something happened that made sense, so it's not a big deal. I loved all the mystery the author gave to the story, when everything seemed to be fine ... bam! Something terrible was happening. I just loved it!
Regarding the characters, I adored them, mostly. In my opinion Nayia is a very good heroine, she is very sweet but strong at the same time. She is definitely one of my favorites characters of this book. While at first I had my doubts about Tate, I will admit that she quickly became my favorite character. Like Pip (who, by the way, I would like to know what happened to him), he's like Nayia, adorable and strong as hell, I love this little cutie pie. Something that bothered me a bit was the relationship between Nayia and Enoch, it was something strange and the impossible love felt by Nayia towards Enoch seemed unnecessary to me. But, as I said, that is my
opinion.
Concluding, I liked the book and it reminded me of the old days when I read books like The Hunger Games or Divergent.
January 18, 2018
* this book was sent to me by the author in exchange for a review, all opinions are however my own*
'Broken moon' is a new dystopian novel following our Main character Naiya Barrigan, along with her adopted brothers Enoch and Pip. All who are on the run after witnessing the mysterious and eerie death of their sister. Together they must hunt for clues to solve the mystery that their father had set for them whilst trying to fight and stay undercover from the malicious guards that want them captured.
.
I didn't know what to expect when I first started this book, but I can say Sarah's writing is amazing! Her words flowed well and the world building was well done, I could easily create a mental map of the setting, and it had me turning page after page. It gave me 'divergent' vibes, which is one of my favourite and first YA books, so if you enjoyed that then I'd definitely recommend this. This story was action packed and intriguing, I didn't know what to expect and we discover clues along with the characters themselves. Naiya is a great main character who deals realistically with all the events and difficulties they face. Though selfish at times, she represented a realistic character. The chosen one trope definitely comes into play when Naiya is told that she more important than she knows. Though unintentionally forced to cope the weight of the world's fate on her shoulders, she is ready to protect everyone from the bizarre plans of the city's government. The one thing I'd have to say is that I wished there was more insight into the characters, which I guess will be explored in the next book. This book was enjoyable and fun to read and I can't wait for the sequel!
3.5 ⭐⭐⭐!
'Broken moon' is a new dystopian novel following our Main character Naiya Barrigan, along with her adopted brothers Enoch and Pip. All who are on the run after witnessing the mysterious and eerie death of their sister. Together they must hunt for clues to solve the mystery that their father had set for them whilst trying to fight and stay undercover from the malicious guards that want them captured.
.
I didn't know what to expect when I first started this book, but I can say Sarah's writing is amazing! Her words flowed well and the world building was well done, I could easily create a mental map of the setting, and it had me turning page after page. It gave me 'divergent' vibes, which is one of my favourite and first YA books, so if you enjoyed that then I'd definitely recommend this. This story was action packed and intriguing, I didn't know what to expect and we discover clues along with the characters themselves. Naiya is a great main character who deals realistically with all the events and difficulties they face. Though selfish at times, she represented a realistic character. The chosen one trope definitely comes into play when Naiya is told that she more important than she knows. Though unintentionally forced to cope the weight of the world's fate on her shoulders, she is ready to protect everyone from the bizarre plans of the city's government. The one thing I'd have to say is that I wished there was more insight into the characters, which I guess will be explored in the next book. This book was enjoyable and fun to read and I can't wait for the sequel!
3.5 ⭐⭐⭐!
November 15, 2017
*I was given an ARC of this book by the Author in exchange for a review. However, all my thoughts and opinions are my own.*
"Broken Moon" is a new YA Fantasy/Dystopian following young heroine Naiya Barrigan, and her adopted brothers Enoch & Pip as they go on the run after Naiya and her brother witness their sisters scary, and mysterious death. The three must outrun demonic guards, while trying to piece together the mystery of why adults and children in the city are being stolen, and what is happening to them, using the clues their father gave them before they fled. "Broken Moon" Is a fast paced, non-stop action novel filled with the importance of family, secret unrequited love, mythology, and magical powers! Sarah Beth Moore's writing is seamless, and the pages fly by.
"Broken Moon" is a new YA Fantasy/Dystopian following young heroine Naiya Barrigan, and her adopted brothers Enoch & Pip as they go on the run after Naiya and her brother witness their sisters scary, and mysterious death. The three must outrun demonic guards, while trying to piece together the mystery of why adults and children in the city are being stolen, and what is happening to them, using the clues their father gave them before they fled. "Broken Moon" Is a fast paced, non-stop action novel filled with the importance of family, secret unrequited love, mythology, and magical powers! Sarah Beth Moore's writing is seamless, and the pages fly by.
April 24, 2018
I love the concept of the “broken moon” which is literally 😂
I love dystopian and fantasy, and this is my cup of tea.
But i think some of part like cut from the original story maybe? Because i don’t get how the mayor end up died? By his own bullet?
But overall i can’t wait for the second book
I love dystopian and fantasy, and this is my cup of tea.
But i think some of part like cut from the original story maybe? Because i don’t get how the mayor end up died? By his own bullet?
But overall i can’t wait for the second book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2017
*Thank you to Sarah Beth Moore for sending me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review 😊This did not influence my review or my rating.
Broken Moon is a YA urban fantasy novel that explores the existence and signifigance of the human soul. Set in a dystopia where the authoritarian Party stalks every move of their people, Naiya is set on a dangerous path that leads to her uncovering a higher power, and deadly hidden secrets of their corrupt government and their twisted experiments that beg the question, "Do our leaders really know what's best?" Now an enemy of the Party, Naiya discovering she has a strange power that could help her to save humanity. To aid her on her mission, she is joined by her a new found friend she once considered an enemy, an adopted younger brother who is in danger of being another pawn for the Party, and another adopted brother who she really doesn't love as a brother.
As soon as I read the synopsis, I was sold. I mean, the human soul is real? Of course that's going to interest me. The plot is true to the description, but one of the things that made it sit close to home was the fact that you can relate to it and you can see reality reflected in the pages, particularly when concerning the government and other societal issues. The story really pushes that there is something within us that creates innate goodness but, as seen through the terrifying Home Guard, it can be twisted, manipulated without any knowledge, which makes this novel horrifying. Fuse this with a literal broken moon, a symbol of cycles being broken and both darkness and enlightenment, Moore's novel is packed with meaning and inspiration.
The world created is both new and familiar, so you know what the overall tone of the story is going to be and the general direction, but it is still so exciting to experience. Moore's world is so perfectly crafted, designed so intelligently and beautifully, I fell in love with it immediately. Everything described with the perfect amount of imagery so it isn't worthy of eye-rolling.
However, like a lot of things, Broken Moon isn't perfect. One of the biggest flaws is the characters. Naiya is the only one with any true development, as she evolves from an insecure girl to a strong heroine, but she never loses who she truly is. She's a complex character, as she is one that represents how people can possess both good and bad qualities; that you can be viruous but still have darkness within you. Despite being told she's a bigger deal than she thinks she is, that she's more imporant than she realises, she still maintains her humility, even when she realises who she really is. This sense of importance, without arrogance, is what makes Naiya a truly admirable character.
While we don't get to see her a lot, I really liked Naiay's sister, Amy. She is the catalyst that launches the events of the novel. Everything about her leads Naiya to discover who she really is, and helps her to realise her full potential. Naiya's other sibling, her brother, Pip, is such a sweet boy and I really admired their bond as sister and brother.
On the other hand, Enoch, her adopted brother and romantic interest, is so bland. The majority of the novel, he has one emotion, which is frustration, and is focused on one thing, and that is his family and keeping Naiya safe. He's just so two dimensional, I have such a hard time liking him. And the romantic aspect between the two is something I really struggle with. True, Enoch isn't her true brother, but it should count as something when she calls his father, brother and sister hers. This is the thing that I had the most trouble with because I just cannot rationalise it.
A fast-paced read, Broken Moon is an exciting novel that keeps you on your toes, wanting to know Naiya's next move and wanting to desperately believe that evil can be thwarted. Combined together with a story that questions morals, a flawed hero and unexptected twists, the story is so damn captivating. Although I was not too big a fan of the development of the other characters, I was fascinated with the Home Guard, the broken moon and the celestial allusion which reinforced the importance of faith. Everything about Broken Moon is pieced together elegently and flawlessly. It is definitely recommended for fans of 1984 and The Hunger Games, as well as lovers of fantasy.
Broken Moon is a YA urban fantasy novel that explores the existence and signifigance of the human soul. Set in a dystopia where the authoritarian Party stalks every move of their people, Naiya is set on a dangerous path that leads to her uncovering a higher power, and deadly hidden secrets of their corrupt government and their twisted experiments that beg the question, "Do our leaders really know what's best?" Now an enemy of the Party, Naiya discovering she has a strange power that could help her to save humanity. To aid her on her mission, she is joined by her a new found friend she once considered an enemy, an adopted younger brother who is in danger of being another pawn for the Party, and another adopted brother who she really doesn't love as a brother.
As soon as I read the synopsis, I was sold. I mean, the human soul is real? Of course that's going to interest me. The plot is true to the description, but one of the things that made it sit close to home was the fact that you can relate to it and you can see reality reflected in the pages, particularly when concerning the government and other societal issues. The story really pushes that there is something within us that creates innate goodness but, as seen through the terrifying Home Guard, it can be twisted, manipulated without any knowledge, which makes this novel horrifying. Fuse this with a literal broken moon, a symbol of cycles being broken and both darkness and enlightenment, Moore's novel is packed with meaning and inspiration.
The world created is both new and familiar, so you know what the overall tone of the story is going to be and the general direction, but it is still so exciting to experience. Moore's world is so perfectly crafted, designed so intelligently and beautifully, I fell in love with it immediately. Everything described with the perfect amount of imagery so it isn't worthy of eye-rolling.
However, like a lot of things, Broken Moon isn't perfect. One of the biggest flaws is the characters. Naiya is the only one with any true development, as she evolves from an insecure girl to a strong heroine, but she never loses who she truly is. She's a complex character, as she is one that represents how people can possess both good and bad qualities; that you can be viruous but still have darkness within you. Despite being told she's a bigger deal than she thinks she is, that she's more imporant than she realises, she still maintains her humility, even when she realises who she really is. This sense of importance, without arrogance, is what makes Naiya a truly admirable character.
While we don't get to see her a lot, I really liked Naiay's sister, Amy. She is the catalyst that launches the events of the novel. Everything about her leads Naiya to discover who she really is, and helps her to realise her full potential. Naiya's other sibling, her brother, Pip, is such a sweet boy and I really admired their bond as sister and brother.
On the other hand, Enoch, her adopted brother and romantic interest, is so bland. The majority of the novel, he has one emotion, which is frustration, and is focused on one thing, and that is his family and keeping Naiya safe. He's just so two dimensional, I have such a hard time liking him. And the romantic aspect between the two is something I really struggle with. True, Enoch isn't her true brother, but it should count as something when she calls his father, brother and sister hers. This is the thing that I had the most trouble with because I just cannot rationalise it.
A fast-paced read, Broken Moon is an exciting novel that keeps you on your toes, wanting to know Naiya's next move and wanting to desperately believe that evil can be thwarted. Combined together with a story that questions morals, a flawed hero and unexptected twists, the story is so damn captivating. Although I was not too big a fan of the development of the other characters, I was fascinated with the Home Guard, the broken moon and the celestial allusion which reinforced the importance of faith. Everything about Broken Moon is pieced together elegently and flawlessly. It is definitely recommended for fans of 1984 and The Hunger Games, as well as lovers of fantasy.
November 21, 2017
I was given an ARC of Broken Moon by Sarah Beth Moore in exchange for an honest review, and I am so glad I accepted.
This book was 347 pages of nonstop intrigue!
Looking at the page count after receiving the file, it felt a bit daunting. But, once my eyes drifted past the last word I wanted more, no, I needed more.
We meet Naiya, an adopted orphan who lives in a city secured behind fifty-foot walls. Naiya and her adoptive brother Enoch are approached late one night by their older sister Amy who does not entirely seem like she is their sister. She rambles out a few words before plummeting to her death by walking off the edge of an airstrip.
When Naiya insists that she and Enoch follow the body of their not-sister after it is taken by the Home Guard, monstrous mutated humans who serve as enforcement in their City, they find themselves entangled in a conspiracy of stolen babies, missing and duplicated people, an entanglement that reaches deep into Naiya’s unknown past.
Enoch’s father and Naiya’s adoptive Papa send them and their younger brother Pip on a journey to uncover the true power of Naiya’s surname, the hidden history of the City and the Party officials, and the heinous experiments that are carried out on the citizens trapped within the walls of the City.
Moore’s storytelling was marvelous. The action was so evenly paced, and every moment, every word was used to pull me along. Whenever the suspense slowed, it was an opportunity to reveal truths, character development, and plot twists. Her world building felt effortless and believable.
And that tension between Naiya and Enoch! Come on, it can’t be that wrong for her to fall for him, right? Their interactions are done so well. They are a strong team that on the surface feels like the ultimate brother-sister bond, but underlying is a powerhouse of feels that I wanted to see let loose.
The first in any series is always the build-up for the rest, and can seem incomplete at the end, but not Broken Moon. Moore wrapped up loose ends while simultaneously paving the way for more questions and intrigue.
This was a fantastic first volume to her series.
I will say, I had two minor issues with the story.
First, the intro was mainly telling. Which I understand, because the plot starts moving almost immediately that we needed this information to understand why and how things work. However, at the very beginning, I found myself hoping the entire book was not like that.
Second, the secret history of Naiya’s ancestors and their purpose to the story was a bit lost on me. I understood what it was, but the explanation did not feel thorough enough. Not that I was not able to understand as I continued to read, but I think it could have been rounded out a bit better.
Overall, this was a great read. Fun, fast-paced. Lots of questions and great characters. Look forward to her next installment. If you like YA dystopian, pick up her book. You won't be sorry.
This book was 347 pages of nonstop intrigue!
Looking at the page count after receiving the file, it felt a bit daunting. But, once my eyes drifted past the last word I wanted more, no, I needed more.
We meet Naiya, an adopted orphan who lives in a city secured behind fifty-foot walls. Naiya and her adoptive brother Enoch are approached late one night by their older sister Amy who does not entirely seem like she is their sister. She rambles out a few words before plummeting to her death by walking off the edge of an airstrip.
When Naiya insists that she and Enoch follow the body of their not-sister after it is taken by the Home Guard, monstrous mutated humans who serve as enforcement in their City, they find themselves entangled in a conspiracy of stolen babies, missing and duplicated people, an entanglement that reaches deep into Naiya’s unknown past.
Enoch’s father and Naiya’s adoptive Papa send them and their younger brother Pip on a journey to uncover the true power of Naiya’s surname, the hidden history of the City and the Party officials, and the heinous experiments that are carried out on the citizens trapped within the walls of the City.
Moore’s storytelling was marvelous. The action was so evenly paced, and every moment, every word was used to pull me along. Whenever the suspense slowed, it was an opportunity to reveal truths, character development, and plot twists. Her world building felt effortless and believable.
And that tension between Naiya and Enoch! Come on, it can’t be that wrong for her to fall for him, right? Their interactions are done so well. They are a strong team that on the surface feels like the ultimate brother-sister bond, but underlying is a powerhouse of feels that I wanted to see let loose.
The first in any series is always the build-up for the rest, and can seem incomplete at the end, but not Broken Moon. Moore wrapped up loose ends while simultaneously paving the way for more questions and intrigue.
This was a fantastic first volume to her series.
I will say, I had two minor issues with the story.
First, the intro was mainly telling. Which I understand, because the plot starts moving almost immediately that we needed this information to understand why and how things work. However, at the very beginning, I found myself hoping the entire book was not like that.
Second, the secret history of Naiya’s ancestors and their purpose to the story was a bit lost on me. I understood what it was, but the explanation did not feel thorough enough. Not that I was not able to understand as I continued to read, but I think it could have been rounded out a bit better.
Overall, this was a great read. Fun, fast-paced. Lots of questions and great characters. Look forward to her next installment. If you like YA dystopian, pick up her book. You won't be sorry.
November 20, 2017
My eyes travel upward, blinking in the light of the Broken Moon. Once whole, it now glows like two jagged halves of a cracked egg, the slight space between spattered with airless detritus and bits of dust.
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for my honest review and I happily decided to do it, since this YA Dystopian/Fantasy book seemed pretty interesting.
Right from the very first chapters the reader is confronted with a world that had seen a war and still bears its scars: what happened before left people on Earth with a hard life, demonic guards stalking the streets, a Broken Moon and a society ruled by a mysterious "Party" to whom mothers have to offer their firstborn children.
Living a thousand feet above the ground in metal slums piled upon the detritus of decades, our protagonist Naiya Barrigan makes a decent living culling through the wreckage of 21st century humanity and selling what she finds to the highest bidder.
She is fifteen and had been adopted after her mom died and had thus gained a great father figure—she affectionately calls him Papa Bear—an adopted sister Amy and two adopted brothers, Pip and Enoch, toward whom she feels anything but sisterly.
When we meet Naiya she is with her "brother" Enoch, and they are about to go home...until they meet someone who truly changes the course of their lives: pregnant Amy has just turned up bone-thin, childless and dead. After this meeting they rush home, and then they have to escape—taking with them eight-year-old Pip and a few scant possession—because their very life is at stake. As they run from the Home Guard chasing them, Naiya has to face her own demons and comes to terms with her past and who she really is...if she wants to save her life and the lives of her brothers.
Because she is the descendant of an ancient family line that oversees the link between the mortal world and Terminus, where souls await rebirth between lives, and she has powers she must learn to control.
I found the fast pace and the flow of actions both easy to follow and interesting: I wanted to know more, about the Home Guard, the terminus, the Party, how the world ended up with such power-hungry beasts controlling it. In particular I appreciated the twists in the plot that kept it thrilling as I proceeded, I might have had a few suspicions, but what happened eventually only confirmed that there is still much to know about this world and the story.
The characters are well described and presented to the reader as the story unravels and the plot thickens: they are not black or white, they have to understand more about themselves and the reader can follow them in the process.
Great start for a series set in a dystopian world, and I definitely want to know more about Terminus, the Party and the land beyond the borders of the City.
November 21, 2017
I was sent a copy of “Broken Moon” by Sarah Beth Moore in exchange for an honest review, I was apprehensive about starting “Broken Moon” based off the synopsis I was given, part of it reeling me in because of my love of YA dystopian, and urban fantasies and the other part put off by the idea of the main character having feelings for her adoptive brother.
“Broken Moon” begins with our lead character Niyah waiting for her “brother,” Enoch, to finish his mission, internally lamenting the unrequited feelings she’s had for him since before she was adopted into his family- she’s never thought of him as a brother. The story immediately turns into something beyond your basic teen love story when Enoch’s older sister Amy, who is supposed to be nine months pregnant, interrupts them with a flat stomach and wild eyes and proceeds to jump from the building.
Niyah, Enoch and their little brother are immediately over their heads in a government conspiracy they know almost nothing about, and they must stick together and figure out how to stay hidden and survive while completing their father’s mission to find out who the clone of Amy was, and where she came from.
I felt like a lot of the story was a slow burn, it’s a lot of traveling and research in the beginning to try to unravel the clues that their father left them with but right around the middle of the story there’s a big pick up in pace and things get moving. I find this happens a lot in worlds like this, similar to Stephanie Meyer’s “The Host” where you need to have some explanations of the world you’re viewing through the pages before things get too fast paced.
There is a lot going on in the story; the guards that enforce the government’s rules have almost biblical powers and there’s a mad scientist creating clones for purposes that begin to become clearer towards the end of the book. “Broken Moon” is the first of four books in the series and it’s definitely set up for the rest of the series to be fast paced. Despite the slow burn of the beginning I found myself thinking of the book constantly when I couldn’t read it, and the characters are very well done and kept me sucked in. Niyah was a refreshing lead female character, very much a leader and shouldered her responsibilities without buying into the stereotypical, “what do I do now?” mentality that a lot of female leads tend to lean on. Over all I give the book four stars and can’t wait to see what happens with the series.
For more reviews find me on Instagram @ReviewbythePage
“Broken Moon” begins with our lead character Niyah waiting for her “brother,” Enoch, to finish his mission, internally lamenting the unrequited feelings she’s had for him since before she was adopted into his family- she’s never thought of him as a brother. The story immediately turns into something beyond your basic teen love story when Enoch’s older sister Amy, who is supposed to be nine months pregnant, interrupts them with a flat stomach and wild eyes and proceeds to jump from the building.
Niyah, Enoch and their little brother are immediately over their heads in a government conspiracy they know almost nothing about, and they must stick together and figure out how to stay hidden and survive while completing their father’s mission to find out who the clone of Amy was, and where she came from.
I felt like a lot of the story was a slow burn, it’s a lot of traveling and research in the beginning to try to unravel the clues that their father left them with but right around the middle of the story there’s a big pick up in pace and things get moving. I find this happens a lot in worlds like this, similar to Stephanie Meyer’s “The Host” where you need to have some explanations of the world you’re viewing through the pages before things get too fast paced.
There is a lot going on in the story; the guards that enforce the government’s rules have almost biblical powers and there’s a mad scientist creating clones for purposes that begin to become clearer towards the end of the book. “Broken Moon” is the first of four books in the series and it’s definitely set up for the rest of the series to be fast paced. Despite the slow burn of the beginning I found myself thinking of the book constantly when I couldn’t read it, and the characters are very well done and kept me sucked in. Niyah was a refreshing lead female character, very much a leader and shouldered her responsibilities without buying into the stereotypical, “what do I do now?” mentality that a lot of female leads tend to lean on. Over all I give the book four stars and can’t wait to see what happens with the series.
For more reviews find me on Instagram @ReviewbythePage
May 3, 2018
First of all the Author send me a copy of the book but this is my own opinion!
The Story of Naya Barrygan was compelling from the first few pages and I really enjoyed following the journey through the city to seek the truth behind the mystery her father left her and her two brothers. The City has it's own unique stile even when you can read in so many other books from other cities similar to this one. Moreover the Broken moon fascinated my. Nearly the entire book I thought about the question how can be the moon broken into two halfes and why they broke the moon. The anwer to those question only come up shortly or I have to say I couln't imagine how it should work.
But coming back to Naya I have to say I liked her the most in the book because she's a strong bad-ass woman who don't lose her aim because of heartsickness with her older step-brother Encho. I enjoyed that she don't stand right next to a fight and is not able to help because of weakness. She's the type of woman who act and fight for herself and don't stand next to a male hero who will safe her. I really love this fact because such strong womans from the beginning of the first book aren't so usual.
I want to say to the other charakters that I liked them more or less. Nayas older step-brother Encho seems for me like the typical older brother who tries to protect his younger siblings. I missed at Encho the personal dept because I couln't really decode anything about his feelings only the things Naya described for the reader. I hope this will change for the second book. Also Tate was to facile for me but it was getting better to the end of the book.
Next to Naya was Pip the most interesting Charakter for me. He's just a child and Children are always kind and nice but what happens when this is not the case all the time? Pip has to fight against not only the society but also against himself. He's marked and this leads him to terrible behaviour but I have to say that I still not sure what it means to be marked by the city troops.
This book is a thrilling beginning to a interesting trilogy. The main character is a strong woman who fight for the truth and the story is not really focused to a triangle love attachment between Naya, Encho and Tate but it concetrates on the main story to find the truth and comply the quest her father gave her. I'm courius how the story will go on and excited for the second book.
I will give this book 4 of 5 stars.
The Story of Naya Barrygan was compelling from the first few pages and I really enjoyed following the journey through the city to seek the truth behind the mystery her father left her and her two brothers. The City has it's own unique stile even when you can read in so many other books from other cities similar to this one. Moreover the Broken moon fascinated my. Nearly the entire book I thought about the question how can be the moon broken into two halfes and why they broke the moon. The anwer to those question only come up shortly or I have to say I couln't imagine how it should work.
But coming back to Naya I have to say I liked her the most in the book because she's a strong bad-ass woman who don't lose her aim because of heartsickness with her older step-brother Encho. I enjoyed that she don't stand right next to a fight and is not able to help because of weakness. She's the type of woman who act and fight for herself and don't stand next to a male hero who will safe her. I really love this fact because such strong womans from the beginning of the first book aren't so usual.
I want to say to the other charakters that I liked them more or less. Nayas older step-brother Encho seems for me like the typical older brother who tries to protect his younger siblings. I missed at Encho the personal dept because I couln't really decode anything about his feelings only the things Naya described for the reader. I hope this will change for the second book. Also Tate was to facile for me but it was getting better to the end of the book.
Next to Naya was Pip the most interesting Charakter for me. He's just a child and Children are always kind and nice but what happens when this is not the case all the time? Pip has to fight against not only the society but also against himself. He's marked and this leads him to terrible behaviour but I have to say that I still not sure what it means to be marked by the city troops.
This book is a thrilling beginning to a interesting trilogy. The main character is a strong woman who fight for the truth and the story is not really focused to a triangle love attachment between Naya, Encho and Tate but it concetrates on the main story to find the truth and comply the quest her father gave her. I'm courius how the story will go on and excited for the second book.
I will give this book 4 of 5 stars.
December 14, 2017
DISCLAIMER: I was sent this book to review by the author. All opinions, as always, are my own.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book because I came into it without any knowledge of the synopsis. That's something I like doing now because more often than not, the synopsis gives away too much of the plot-the same way movie trailers basically show you the entire movie in under a minute. Where's the fun in that?
In doing this, I was on the exact same page as Naiya and that made the story even more intriguing and also scary. I felt lost and a bit confused, but at the same time so need Naiya and the rest of the characters and it's this lost in the dark feeling that connected me to the characters. No one knew what was going on and there were so many secrets hidden from the society, that it was difficult to tell the truth from another fabrication.
I'm all for a post apocalyptic novel and a strong female lead. I like that Naiya had a good head on her shoulder, and she was able to push aside her feelings for Enoch and her jealously of Tate and focus on the bigger picture. I liked Enoch as side character as well, but there wasn't much depth to him. I'm hoping we'll get more background on him and Tate so they don't feel so one dimensional.
The most interesting character for me is Pip. Children are suppose to be innocent and angelic, and when they're not, it's very unsettling. I know he's marked but I'm not sure what that means entirely, but I'm sure he'll play a larger role in the next book.
All in all I felt that this was a solid first book to a series and it kept me interested throughout every chapter. I find the concept of the "broken moon" really interesting, and I wanted to know more about that. Aside from the moon being the only source of light in the dark, and now it is broken in two, I wanted to know if it is possible for the moon to crack in half and still be somewhat connected? Obviously this is a work of fiction, but that's something I can't wrap my head around. I also wanted characters that felt more real and with that said, I'll admit that this is a very plot driven story and it's been awhile since I've read a book that didn't focus solely on character development.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book because I came into it without any knowledge of the synopsis. That's something I like doing now because more often than not, the synopsis gives away too much of the plot-the same way movie trailers basically show you the entire movie in under a minute. Where's the fun in that?
In doing this, I was on the exact same page as Naiya and that made the story even more intriguing and also scary. I felt lost and a bit confused, but at the same time so need Naiya and the rest of the characters and it's this lost in the dark feeling that connected me to the characters. No one knew what was going on and there were so many secrets hidden from the society, that it was difficult to tell the truth from another fabrication.
I'm all for a post apocalyptic novel and a strong female lead. I like that Naiya had a good head on her shoulder, and she was able to push aside her feelings for Enoch and her jealously of Tate and focus on the bigger picture. I liked Enoch as side character as well, but there wasn't much depth to him. I'm hoping we'll get more background on him and Tate so they don't feel so one dimensional.
The most interesting character for me is Pip. Children are suppose to be innocent and angelic, and when they're not, it's very unsettling. I know he's marked but I'm not sure what that means entirely, but I'm sure he'll play a larger role in the next book.
All in all I felt that this was a solid first book to a series and it kept me interested throughout every chapter. I find the concept of the "broken moon" really interesting, and I wanted to know more about that. Aside from the moon being the only source of light in the dark, and now it is broken in two, I wanted to know if it is possible for the moon to crack in half and still be somewhat connected? Obviously this is a work of fiction, but that's something I can't wrap my head around. I also wanted characters that felt more real and with that said, I'll admit that this is a very plot driven story and it's been awhile since I've read a book that didn't focus solely on character development.
January 10, 2018
“Everything for everyone, and nothing for ourselves.”
It’s been ages since I’ve read anything in the dystopian genre, so when Sarah gave me an ARC copy of Broken Moon in exchange for an honest review, I was excited to get back to it.
Immediately you can tell that Sarah has thought out a world that’s right at home in the genre. Her setting is detailed and reminiscent of Veronica Roth’s Divergent, but considerably darker, with the ominous ‘Party’, the stealing of firstborn children, and the city guards that aren’t quite human. Her main character Naiya fits right in, along with adoptive brothers Enoch and Pip. When Naiya manages to find some trouble, our story begins.
Personally I thought this was very much a character-driven story. The main characters are realistic and believable, and while I wished there was a little less travelling and a little more doing, I enjoyed reading about them. Naiya goes between teenage girl and unwilling hero in a way that many characters fall flat on, and her character developed well, though her family history definitely needs expanding in later books because I found myself a little lost. Considering I usually hate child characters, I found Pip not only realistic, but I’m so excited to see what Sarah does with his unusual ‘other side.’ The only character I found lacking was Enoch. I felt he didn’t have as much development, and personally I didn’t understand what Naiya found so appealing about him at all.
I loved the world-building, in fact, I wished there was more of it. We saw a towering city that was rife with danger and guards, children being stolen - some of them coming back no longer entirely human - and whatever is outside the city might not be any safer.
While the first chapter of the book was a little exposition heavy, it ended with a bang, and the rest of the book was mostly fast-paced and full of twists. There was a lot of detail and a lot going on, sometimes even too much, but there was also much I want to know more about. This is the first in a series, so I’m hoping to see more of it later, and there is clearly a lot more to come. But for now, Broken Moon was an entertaining, new take on the dystopian genre, and I look forward to the sequel.
It’s been ages since I’ve read anything in the dystopian genre, so when Sarah gave me an ARC copy of Broken Moon in exchange for an honest review, I was excited to get back to it.
Immediately you can tell that Sarah has thought out a world that’s right at home in the genre. Her setting is detailed and reminiscent of Veronica Roth’s Divergent, but considerably darker, with the ominous ‘Party’, the stealing of firstborn children, and the city guards that aren’t quite human. Her main character Naiya fits right in, along with adoptive brothers Enoch and Pip. When Naiya manages to find some trouble, our story begins.
Personally I thought this was very much a character-driven story. The main characters are realistic and believable, and while I wished there was a little less travelling and a little more doing, I enjoyed reading about them. Naiya goes between teenage girl and unwilling hero in a way that many characters fall flat on, and her character developed well, though her family history definitely needs expanding in later books because I found myself a little lost. Considering I usually hate child characters, I found Pip not only realistic, but I’m so excited to see what Sarah does with his unusual ‘other side.’ The only character I found lacking was Enoch. I felt he didn’t have as much development, and personally I didn’t understand what Naiya found so appealing about him at all.
I loved the world-building, in fact, I wished there was more of it. We saw a towering city that was rife with danger and guards, children being stolen - some of them coming back no longer entirely human - and whatever is outside the city might not be any safer.
While the first chapter of the book was a little exposition heavy, it ended with a bang, and the rest of the book was mostly fast-paced and full of twists. There was a lot of detail and a lot going on, sometimes even too much, but there was also much I want to know more about. This is the first in a series, so I’m hoping to see more of it later, and there is clearly a lot more to come. But for now, Broken Moon was an entertaining, new take on the dystopian genre, and I look forward to the sequel.
November 21, 2017
“We are such fools, to think anyone could win a war on Earth, and thereby own the heavens. We are fools, and soon all will bleed.”
Imagine that you are living in dystopian world where the law says: “Everything for everyone, and nothing for ourselves” , where Authoritarian Party stalks your every move, where you have to give your first-born child to prosperous families in the lower levels. Naiya, who was adopted at the age of 8 years, lives in this world. Like her adoptive brother and Papa, she finds peculiar items for the Elite. One day everything changes for her. What would you do if someone that you know and love turned out to be someone completely unfamiliar? Literally. Nothing is like it supposed to be. Now, she has to escape and complete her mission. The only hint is one word – Terminus and the last advice from her Papa – “Listen to your dreams”. Would she keep her family safe? Especially her younger brother who is in danger of being another pawn for the Party? What is her destiny? They say it’s in her blood, just as her mother. The only way is to outwit the watching Party and guards and discover their secrets. Will she manage to accomplish it?
I really enjoyed reading “Broken Moon” by Sarah Beth Moore. In the beginning I was a little doubtful in my skills since English isn’t my first language. However, thanks to gripping story it wasn’t such a big problem. The only thing that I can niggle to is the fact that nobody explain what’s going on to the main character (supposedly for her sake). She just has to follow her destiny ( when it’s too late). It reminds me every other dystopian book. However, I don’t mind it. In fact, I recommended you with all my heart this YA, fantasy novel. Just look at this cover – it encourage you to open the book and start reading. It’s so beautiful and I heard that the author designed it by herself. <3 Good job!
Imagine that you are living in dystopian world where the law says: “Everything for everyone, and nothing for ourselves” , where Authoritarian Party stalks your every move, where you have to give your first-born child to prosperous families in the lower levels. Naiya, who was adopted at the age of 8 years, lives in this world. Like her adoptive brother and Papa, she finds peculiar items for the Elite. One day everything changes for her. What would you do if someone that you know and love turned out to be someone completely unfamiliar? Literally. Nothing is like it supposed to be. Now, she has to escape and complete her mission. The only hint is one word – Terminus and the last advice from her Papa – “Listen to your dreams”. Would she keep her family safe? Especially her younger brother who is in danger of being another pawn for the Party? What is her destiny? They say it’s in her blood, just as her mother. The only way is to outwit the watching Party and guards and discover their secrets. Will she manage to accomplish it?
I really enjoyed reading “Broken Moon” by Sarah Beth Moore. In the beginning I was a little doubtful in my skills since English isn’t my first language. However, thanks to gripping story it wasn’t such a big problem. The only thing that I can niggle to is the fact that nobody explain what’s going on to the main character (supposedly for her sake). She just has to follow her destiny ( when it’s too late). It reminds me every other dystopian book. However, I don’t mind it. In fact, I recommended you with all my heart this YA, fantasy novel. Just look at this cover – it encourage you to open the book and start reading. It’s so beautiful and I heard that the author designed it by herself. <3 Good job!
November 21, 2017
**I was sent this book for free by the author in return for my honest review**
Sarah is a fantastic writer. She has previously released non-fiction that I have yet to read but I'm super happy and grateful that I had the opportunity to read her first fiction novel. I loved the different themes explored throughout the novel such as grief, depression, identity and purpose. It helps it become more real rather than words upon paper.
The main character, Naiya Barrigan, has two adopted brothers and I loved the close family-bond that they had. Naiya was a wonderfully written character. She's a strong female who isn't afraid to stick up for what is right and who she cares about. I loved her journey of self-discovery throughout the novel.
All of the characters were brilliantly written and I loved seeing their development throughout the novel. We get to see how characters grow closer as well as their journey and hardships that they face.
The story is thrilling and exciting. The threat of The Party follows our main characters throughout the story and they don't know who to trust. At no point did I find that the story dragged and it also didn't ever feel rushed. There was constant action along with a lingering threat that kept me hooked and reading until the very end. The writing is entertaining and exciting; I felt myself feeling worried for the characters and the situations that they found themselves in.
I would 100% recommend this novel to fans of a dystopian setting. The world-building was fantastic (thought I would have personally liked more), it was action packed and had a great cast of characters. I gave this an 8/10 (or 4 stars) which it is more than worthy of. I can't wait to see what Sarah comes up with next!
CHECK OUT MY REVIEW ON MY BLOG HERE:
(CHECK OUT MY FULL REVIEW My Blog
Sarah is a fantastic writer. She has previously released non-fiction that I have yet to read but I'm super happy and grateful that I had the opportunity to read her first fiction novel. I loved the different themes explored throughout the novel such as grief, depression, identity and purpose. It helps it become more real rather than words upon paper.
The main character, Naiya Barrigan, has two adopted brothers and I loved the close family-bond that they had. Naiya was a wonderfully written character. She's a strong female who isn't afraid to stick up for what is right and who she cares about. I loved her journey of self-discovery throughout the novel.
All of the characters were brilliantly written and I loved seeing their development throughout the novel. We get to see how characters grow closer as well as their journey and hardships that they face.
The story is thrilling and exciting. The threat of The Party follows our main characters throughout the story and they don't know who to trust. At no point did I find that the story dragged and it also didn't ever feel rushed. There was constant action along with a lingering threat that kept me hooked and reading until the very end. The writing is entertaining and exciting; I felt myself feeling worried for the characters and the situations that they found themselves in.
I would 100% recommend this novel to fans of a dystopian setting. The world-building was fantastic (thought I would have personally liked more), it was action packed and had a great cast of characters. I gave this an 8/10 (or 4 stars) which it is more than worthy of. I can't wait to see what Sarah comes up with next!
CHECK OUT MY REVIEW ON MY BLOG HERE:
(CHECK OUT MY FULL REVIEW My Blog
November 29, 2017
I would like to start by thanking Sarah Moore for sending me an ARC of Broken Moon in exchange for a sincere review and rating.
I personally have always loved post-apocalyptic scenarios and dystopias so if you are also into Hunger Games or Divergent kind of series, you have found your next reading. With a brand new and unique concept, Sarah Moore is ready to impress.
We find our heroine, Nayia, in Politeia, a city that has been destroyed by a war and that now is controlled by an oppressive Government. In a place where everyone has a tracking system fused to the brainstem running and hiding from the terrifying Home Guard are not options.
“Everything for everyone, and nothing for ourselves.”
Nayia lives with her adopted father and her three siblings: Amy, Enoch and little Pip. What she doesn’t know is that her life is about to take an unexpected turn. When Nayia thought anything could go worse, copies of people start to appear here and there. When her father reveals her true origins and identity, she has to run.
Her mission is to discover the truth about the Hollows, save the Souls and guarantee her family’s safety. A new war is approaching and when an unpredictable ally joins the siblings (Tate), tension raises and the reader is constantly in suspense and engaged with the action scenes.
At the end of the book, we shout for more! I want to know what and how: What is Nayia going to face next and how the relationships between the main characters will develop. The city’s future with the new Mayor is now even more uncertain. I believe that “Broken Moon" is the beginning of something greater.
Last but not least I also would like to praise this magnificent covert art. I hope the following covers have some kind of connection to this one so that we can easily relate to it as a series.
I personally have always loved post-apocalyptic scenarios and dystopias so if you are also into Hunger Games or Divergent kind of series, you have found your next reading. With a brand new and unique concept, Sarah Moore is ready to impress.
We find our heroine, Nayia, in Politeia, a city that has been destroyed by a war and that now is controlled by an oppressive Government. In a place where everyone has a tracking system fused to the brainstem running and hiding from the terrifying Home Guard are not options.
“Everything for everyone, and nothing for ourselves.”
Nayia lives with her adopted father and her three siblings: Amy, Enoch and little Pip. What she doesn’t know is that her life is about to take an unexpected turn. When Nayia thought anything could go worse, copies of people start to appear here and there. When her father reveals her true origins and identity, she has to run.
Her mission is to discover the truth about the Hollows, save the Souls and guarantee her family’s safety. A new war is approaching and when an unpredictable ally joins the siblings (Tate), tension raises and the reader is constantly in suspense and engaged with the action scenes.
At the end of the book, we shout for more! I want to know what and how: What is Nayia going to face next and how the relationships between the main characters will develop. The city’s future with the new Mayor is now even more uncertain. I believe that “Broken Moon" is the beginning of something greater.
Last but not least I also would like to praise this magnificent covert art. I hope the following covers have some kind of connection to this one so that we can easily relate to it as a series.
November 21, 2017
I received and ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the author for giving me a chance to read and review this book.
Broken Moon is a dystopian fantasy novel about Naiya Barrigan, a girl who works as a collector in a walled city ruled by an authoritarian party. When Naiya and her adopted brother Enoch see something they shouldn't see, they and their younger brother Pip suddenly find themselves on the run from the government. Naiya and her brothers try to avoid the inhuman guards patrolling the city while at the same time attempting to solve the mystery their father left them. In the midst of it all they start to uncover the secrets of the government as well as the secrets behind Naiya's strange emerging powers.
The main characters are all likable. They are independent and courageous but not reckless. They may take some risks that could be called unnecessary but they never do so unprepared. They are smart and plan their actions carefully. I feel like Naiya's character develops the most during the story. She learns to accept her new powers and the responsibilities that come with them. Naiya's brothers Enoch and Pip on the other hand don't seem to develop that much. In fact, I think they should have stronger personalities. Enoch especially, is just following Naiya around and trying half-heartedly to keep her safe.
Overall, Broken Moon is a fast read that never leaves the reader bored. The setting is not really that different from many other dystopian stories, but Moore has added a unique touch of fantasy that makes this book stand out. It's a pleasant read, perfect for fans of such stories as The Darkest Minds and Red Queen.
Broken Moon is a dystopian fantasy novel about Naiya Barrigan, a girl who works as a collector in a walled city ruled by an authoritarian party. When Naiya and her adopted brother Enoch see something they shouldn't see, they and their younger brother Pip suddenly find themselves on the run from the government. Naiya and her brothers try to avoid the inhuman guards patrolling the city while at the same time attempting to solve the mystery their father left them. In the midst of it all they start to uncover the secrets of the government as well as the secrets behind Naiya's strange emerging powers.
The main characters are all likable. They are independent and courageous but not reckless. They may take some risks that could be called unnecessary but they never do so unprepared. They are smart and plan their actions carefully. I feel like Naiya's character develops the most during the story. She learns to accept her new powers and the responsibilities that come with them. Naiya's brothers Enoch and Pip on the other hand don't seem to develop that much. In fact, I think they should have stronger personalities. Enoch especially, is just following Naiya around and trying half-heartedly to keep her safe.
Overall, Broken Moon is a fast read that never leaves the reader bored. The setting is not really that different from many other dystopian stories, but Moore has added a unique touch of fantasy that makes this book stand out. It's a pleasant read, perfect for fans of such stories as The Darkest Minds and Red Queen.
November 21, 2017
Instantly attracted to the gorgeous cover art and intriguing blurb, I knew this would be a unique read! Naiya and her foster brother, Enoch, live in a dystopian city, controlled by supernaturally-strong guards and an oppressive ruling Party. Their actions are monitored by tracking chips installed under their skin and it is near-impossible for anyone to leave the city walls. They work as Collectors, finding lost relics for the rich throughout the city’s abandoned buildings, but one night after a mission, they encounter an eerie replica of a close relative, who raises troubling questions about their society. Soon after, they’re running for their lives, finding clues to a creepy conspiracy and discovering new allies and enemies!
I loved the fast pace of this book – whenever I thought it was about to slow down, a chapter ending would genuinely shock me into reading more! The story is told in first-person by Naiya, and I connected strongly with her unique voice that flips between passion, stubbornness and self-deprecating humour. There’s a slow-building attraction between Naiya and Enoch that complimented the main action of the plot. I constantly felt like I was rooting her on, as she grows to discover her family history, special powers and individual purpose in her difficult world.
As well as the characters, I especially enjoyed the world-building in this novel, as the author has clearly put a lot of time into planning the history and politics. The ending leaves room for a follow-up, but it is still satisfying and full of twists which I didn’t see coming!
*I kindly received an e-book ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I loved the fast pace of this book – whenever I thought it was about to slow down, a chapter ending would genuinely shock me into reading more! The story is told in first-person by Naiya, and I connected strongly with her unique voice that flips between passion, stubbornness and self-deprecating humour. There’s a slow-building attraction between Naiya and Enoch that complimented the main action of the plot. I constantly felt like I was rooting her on, as she grows to discover her family history, special powers and individual purpose in her difficult world.
As well as the characters, I especially enjoyed the world-building in this novel, as the author has clearly put a lot of time into planning the history and politics. The ending leaves room for a follow-up, but it is still satisfying and full of twists which I didn’t see coming!
*I kindly received an e-book ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
November 21, 2017
4.5 stars!!!!
In a world destroyed by wars, now divided into towering cities that citizens are not allowed to leave, we are introduced to Naiya, a collector of rare and illegal artifacts of the distant past. She lives with her adoptive father and two brothers, one of whom she feels anything but familial, Enoch.
At the beginning of the novel, Naiya meets up with Enoch at their special spot, 'the top of the world' (the very top layer of a city built up layer upon layer). It is there that they are confronted by their sister Amy, but something is wrong. Enoch has just been to see Amy, and she was happy, pregnant and healthy. This Amy is emaciated, confused, without child and cannot remember parts of her life. As she tries to put into words a terrible secret, she jumps to her death, after handing off a key card to Naiya. If this is not their sister, than who is this clone, and how did it know where to find them?
This book was fantastic, a nail biter from start to finish. In this post-apocalyptic setting, the city is at once too large and too small. The setting induces feelings of both vertigo and claustrophobia; from 'the top of the world', where most of the poor live and toil away their lives (including giving their first born children to the rich, a tithe), to the ground level where the rich reside in luxury. Each step our heroine takes on her harrowing journey is dogged by the feral demon-like Home Guard (the police of the city), intent on killing Naiya and those she loves. But, why?
Read my full review at www.onemamassummer.weebly.com/bookrev...
In a world destroyed by wars, now divided into towering cities that citizens are not allowed to leave, we are introduced to Naiya, a collector of rare and illegal artifacts of the distant past. She lives with her adoptive father and two brothers, one of whom she feels anything but familial, Enoch.
At the beginning of the novel, Naiya meets up with Enoch at their special spot, 'the top of the world' (the very top layer of a city built up layer upon layer). It is there that they are confronted by their sister Amy, but something is wrong. Enoch has just been to see Amy, and she was happy, pregnant and healthy. This Amy is emaciated, confused, without child and cannot remember parts of her life. As she tries to put into words a terrible secret, she jumps to her death, after handing off a key card to Naiya. If this is not their sister, than who is this clone, and how did it know where to find them?
This book was fantastic, a nail biter from start to finish. In this post-apocalyptic setting, the city is at once too large and too small. The setting induces feelings of both vertigo and claustrophobia; from 'the top of the world', where most of the poor live and toil away their lives (including giving their first born children to the rich, a tithe), to the ground level where the rich reside in luxury. Each step our heroine takes on her harrowing journey is dogged by the feral demon-like Home Guard (the police of the city), intent on killing Naiya and those she loves. But, why?
Read my full review at www.onemamassummer.weebly.com/bookrev...
December 16, 2017
So the amazing and also extremely funny author, Sarah Moore, was kind enough to give me a copy of her book (omg boy is it good) Broken Moon and I'm so glad she did because damn it was amazing. This book is a YA fantasy and dystopian about a girl called Naiya who lives in a world that is controlled by The Party. She soon finds herself on the run from the government after seeing somethings she wasn't meant to with her step brother Enoch and they soon finds some other helpful companions along the way.
Okay but that description of the book was so bad and does literally no justice for how good the book is and that description was only part of the story too. There are so many twists and turns in this book I was genuinly on the edge of my seat not knowing what on earth was going to happen next. One (of many) of the things I loved about this book was Naiya's character growth, how she slowly progressed as a person learning more about who she was along the way whilst still being herself and not losing that. I do have one thing that I didn't really like though and that was Enoch's personality, I'm sorryyy for saying that but I just found that he was angry. A lot. And I thought it just didn't suit the character we first saw in him at the start and I really did want to love Enoch and I mean I do but I just don't get the anger parts. Apart from that this book was amazing, so gripping, and when the sequel comes out I know that I'm gonna snatch it and gobble it up right away! Thanks again to Sarah for letting read her book, I'm so glad she did.
Okay but that description of the book was so bad and does literally no justice for how good the book is and that description was only part of the story too. There are so many twists and turns in this book I was genuinly on the edge of my seat not knowing what on earth was going to happen next. One (of many) of the things I loved about this book was Naiya's character growth, how she slowly progressed as a person learning more about who she was along the way whilst still being herself and not losing that. I do have one thing that I didn't really like though and that was Enoch's personality, I'm sorryyy for saying that but I just found that he was angry. A lot. And I thought it just didn't suit the character we first saw in him at the start and I really did want to love Enoch and I mean I do but I just don't get the anger parts. Apart from that this book was amazing, so gripping, and when the sequel comes out I know that I'm gonna snatch it and gobble it up right away! Thanks again to Sarah for letting read her book, I'm so glad she did.
November 22, 2017
*DISCLAIMER - I was given an ARC of this novel to write an honest review about it. These views are my own and i’m writing... well... honestly!*
When I read the blurb, I wasn’t sure what I’d initially agreed to doing - there was so much going on that I thought it was too much to cram into a first novel in what would clearly be a trilogy. Cynical, I began reading.
However, as I started reading, I realised that it wouldn’t be a problem. It was well paced, and kept me going. Sarah Moore writes the action very well, creating some punchy moments. She manages to weave heart-wrenching snippets into this action - one such is within the final pitched battle and you realise that these teens have been written with real meticulous thought and demonstrating them as adults that we often dismiss them for being at times.
Naiya, the main character, has her struggles - being thrown headlong into trying to solve the issues of a dying city while navigating the traumas of teenagehood. One of these struggles involves an unrequited love with another main character. This, in my eyes, was the weakest element of the plot and it slowed the story down rather than complimenting it. That is probably just my hatred of love stories being written into novels all the time though - other people may really enjoy it.
Overall, a great story that has real potential moving forward and I’m looking forward to reading the next!
When I read the blurb, I wasn’t sure what I’d initially agreed to doing - there was so much going on that I thought it was too much to cram into a first novel in what would clearly be a trilogy. Cynical, I began reading.
However, as I started reading, I realised that it wouldn’t be a problem. It was well paced, and kept me going. Sarah Moore writes the action very well, creating some punchy moments. She manages to weave heart-wrenching snippets into this action - one such is within the final pitched battle and you realise that these teens have been written with real meticulous thought and demonstrating them as adults that we often dismiss them for being at times.
Naiya, the main character, has her struggles - being thrown headlong into trying to solve the issues of a dying city while navigating the traumas of teenagehood. One of these struggles involves an unrequited love with another main character. This, in my eyes, was the weakest element of the plot and it slowed the story down rather than complimenting it. That is probably just my hatred of love stories being written into novels all the time though - other people may really enjoy it.
Overall, a great story that has real potential moving forward and I’m looking forward to reading the next!
November 21, 2017
*** I was given an Advanced Readers Copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. ***
Genre: Fiction, Urban Fantasy
Publisher: New Leaf Writing
Rating: 5/5
From the first sentence I was hooked. Broken Moon tells the story of Naiya, brothers Enoch and Pip and what could be their most important mission yet.
Along the journey, we meet a blast from Naiya’s past; an unlikely ally, and a contact from the outside connecting Naiya to her ancient family. When Naiya realises she has a special type of magic within her, she must find out how to use it quickly and efficiently to escape the only home she’s known.
Parts of this book echo the likes of Cinder (Marissa Meyer), Red Queen (Victoria Aveyard) and The Invisible Library (Genevieve Cogman); three of my favourite authors. If you enjoyed any of these works, you should check out this amazingly written book.
With each cliffhanger or hook at the end of each chapter, I found it extremely hard to put the book down. If there is a next instalment, it cannot come fast enough. Broken Moon is one of few books that I have added to the “re-read” list. Make sure you add it to yours too.
Available on Amazon Tuesday, 21st November, 2017
Genre: Fiction, Urban Fantasy
Publisher: New Leaf Writing
Rating: 5/5
From the first sentence I was hooked. Broken Moon tells the story of Naiya, brothers Enoch and Pip and what could be their most important mission yet.
Along the journey, we meet a blast from Naiya’s past; an unlikely ally, and a contact from the outside connecting Naiya to her ancient family. When Naiya realises she has a special type of magic within her, she must find out how to use it quickly and efficiently to escape the only home she’s known.
Parts of this book echo the likes of Cinder (Marissa Meyer), Red Queen (Victoria Aveyard) and The Invisible Library (Genevieve Cogman); three of my favourite authors. If you enjoyed any of these works, you should check out this amazingly written book.
With each cliffhanger or hook at the end of each chapter, I found it extremely hard to put the book down. If there is a next instalment, it cannot come fast enough. Broken Moon is one of few books that I have added to the “re-read” list. Make sure you add it to yours too.
Available on Amazon Tuesday, 21st November, 2017
November 21, 2017
Naiya lives in a post apocalyptic world where the citizens of her city are divided into the rich Lower City, and poor Upper City. She spends her days rummaging through the old debris and technology of a war torn past civilization with her adoptive brother Enoch. One day, something happens that flips Naiya's world upside down. Now she must figure out how to save her family and a dying world.
[I received an ARC of Broken Moon in exchange for my honest review]
The plot for this book is well executed. I was really drawn to Nayia and her world. I found myself wanting to find out what would happen next throughout the whole novel. It is definitely a page turner. There are a few heart and gut wrenching moments that really gripped me. I felt the character's pain and loss as much as they did. The interactions between siblings and parents are well thoughout and feel real.
I gave this book a 3.5 because I felt the world building wasn't as expansive as I would have liked. There was a lot of information about the older civilization and how Naiya's world came to be but there was a lot missing from her world.
I'm really interested in Terminus and what Naiya's role in all of that will be in future books! I recommend if you're into fast paced post apocalyptic or dystopian reads!
[I received an ARC of Broken Moon in exchange for my honest review]
The plot for this book is well executed. I was really drawn to Nayia and her world. I found myself wanting to find out what would happen next throughout the whole novel. It is definitely a page turner. There are a few heart and gut wrenching moments that really gripped me. I felt the character's pain and loss as much as they did. The interactions between siblings and parents are well thoughout and feel real.
I gave this book a 3.5 because I felt the world building wasn't as expansive as I would have liked. There was a lot of information about the older civilization and how Naiya's world came to be but there was a lot missing from her world.
I'm really interested in Terminus and what Naiya's role in all of that will be in future books! I recommend if you're into fast paced post apocalyptic or dystopian reads!
April 4, 2018
*I got the ARC of this book from the author but this doesn't impact my thoughts on it in the slightest way.*
I was really excited to read this book because I love dystopian worlds. I was not disappointed by the story, I got some Hunger Games and Red Queen vibes which I loved. The writing was delightful to read (that's saying something because English is not my first language) and I was gripped from the very first page. I loved most of the characters especially Naiya who was a badass female character. The only thing I had trouble with is the fact that I felt like there was a lack of world building. I am the sort of person who loves to have a lot of details about the world where the characters evolve and I feel like a little bit more background would have been nice.
Overall, I feel like this book nicely laid the foundations for the following books and I can't wait to see what adventures the characters will live.
I was really excited to read this book because I love dystopian worlds. I was not disappointed by the story, I got some Hunger Games and Red Queen vibes which I loved. The writing was delightful to read (that's saying something because English is not my first language) and I was gripped from the very first page. I loved most of the characters especially Naiya who was a badass female character. The only thing I had trouble with is the fact that I felt like there was a lack of world building. I am the sort of person who loves to have a lot of details about the world where the characters evolve and I feel like a little bit more background would have been nice.
Overall, I feel like this book nicely laid the foundations for the following books and I can't wait to see what adventures the characters will live.
November 22, 2017
I was provided an ARC of Broken Moon by the author for an honest review.
Broken Moon is about a young woman name Naiya Barrigan in a dystopian future ruled by The Party, which is violently enforced by The Guard. After she and her adoptive brother Enoch find Amy, their pregnant, gaunt, and dead, things begin to spiral out of control.
After being suspected of a break-in at a Party controlled laboratory, Naiya, Enoch, and their younger brother Pip are on the run, while Naiya learns of secret powers she never knew she possessed.
I really enjoyed this book. Without giving too much away, I really liked the pacing of the plot, which started with action right away. I liked the story and I liked the characters as well.
My only issue with this book was the romantic tension. I wasn't really buying it and it weirded me out a bit? But it was actually pretty easy to overlook.
I hope the author continues this series! I would definitely read it!
3.5/5
Broken Moon is about a young woman name Naiya Barrigan in a dystopian future ruled by The Party, which is violently enforced by The Guard. After she and her adoptive brother Enoch find Amy, their pregnant, gaunt, and dead, things begin to spiral out of control.
After being suspected of a break-in at a Party controlled laboratory, Naiya, Enoch, and their younger brother Pip are on the run, while Naiya learns of secret powers she never knew she possessed.
I really enjoyed this book. Without giving too much away, I really liked the pacing of the plot, which started with action right away. I liked the story and I liked the characters as well.
My only issue with this book was the romantic tension. I wasn't really buying it and it weirded me out a bit? But it was actually pretty easy to overlook.
I hope the author continues this series! I would definitely read it!
3.5/5
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