Awakening: The Balance Bringer

The Balance Bringer Chronicles #2

by Debra Kristi, Rebecca Frank (Illustrator)

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When the scales are tipped to the point of breaking, a balance bringer is born—three sisters, one balancer at the core. This time, Ana, it’s your burden to bear. — Ryland (Maitias Cale) Norde Sorlonte Raine

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Ana grew up believing her last name was Janssen. That was a lie.

She grew up believing her father didn’t want to be a part of her life. That was also a lie.

And she grew up believing she was human and that the earthly realm was her home. That was likely the largest lie of all.

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The secrets have been exposed. Ana knows who and what she is meant to be and meant to do. She has yet to decide if she will embrace her foretold destiny, but one point to which she remains steadfast is that she will fight until her dying breath for the safety of those she loves.


It is the salvation of Ana’s loved ones that has lead her to the world of Hiddenkel. Her intentions…save her sisters Crystia and Kaia. For them, she left behind her high school life and the only world she has ever known. And, due to unfortunate circumstances, she also ended up leaving her mother.


Ana thinks she understands the sacrifices required to become the Balance Bringer. And whether she wanted to or not, she has already paid a hefty price. But creation does not keep score nor play fair, and there is much Ana must learn, about herself and her awakening abilities.


But when the life of Ana’s best friend and brother ends up in jeopardy, goals and needs will be reevaluated, and priorities will shift. An intense sense of urgency pushes her to make her way toward the rescue and recovery of her sisters, yet an equally weighted need pushes her to secure the health of her brother.


Can Ana save them all, sisters and brother, while struggling with her physical changes of becoming the Balance Bringer and dealing with her internal conflict that is her attraction to her Tracer and the pull to the dream incubus that would make her his own?


The exciting second installment of the award-winning Balance Bringer Chronicles continues in the land of Hiddenkel.

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The Mortal Instruments meets The Cruel Prince in Awakening: The Balance Bringer, the second book in a series of dark, urban fantasy turned fantasy paranormal tales. If you enjoy strong female leads in supernatural coming-of-age stories with high-stakes action, then you’ll love USA Today Bestselling author Debra Kristi’s imaginative new series.

476 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 14, 2018

About the author

Magic Infused Adventures at Debra Kristi at www.debrakristi.com

Debra Kristi writes deep-point-of-view YA (young adult) fiction that will drop you in the middle of the drama and have you experience the adventure as if you are part of the story.

Award winning and USA Today Bestselling Author Debra Kristi writes addicting young adult fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal adventures. Born and raised a Southern California girl, she still resides in the sunny state with her husband, two kids, and several schizophrenic cats.

Unlike many of the characters in the stories she writes, Debra is not immortal, and her only superpower is letting the dishes and laundry pile up. When not busy drumming away at the keyboard spinning new tales, Debra is hanging out creating priceless memories with her family, geeking out to science fiction and fantasy television, and tossing around movie quotes.

Reviews

[Liesbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review

First of all , we don't really think about it, but it is the cover of the book, at least for me, that pulls us into the story. I designed one or two front covers for books, so it is important that the reader feels attracted to the cover of the book. The artist did an amazing job to portray Ana's journey.
As that said, you think when Ana emerges into Hinddekel everything will be revealed or make sense. There are a few surprises for the reader in store, because that is not the case. More secrets come to the surface and makes the reader and even Ana more confused. As her powers grow, she feels that everything that is happening to her Tracer Jaden and brother Ry is her fault. Now that Ryland's wound is festering and making him more ill.

A lot is happening in the story and the writer takes you through fantastical landscapes and dangerous places. When they find four horses that are willing to take them through this magical place, but are the horses what they seem, can Ana communicate with them and see their true beauty? They are accompanied by Yuromo, someone from the tribe that they emerged too. But there are more dangers out there that Ana needs to face. Especially when a new power takes hold of her and takes her to a difficult time to adjust.

Dohlan shows another side of him, does he really care about Ana, or is there something more to it. Especially when she awakes with a golden ring around her finger, how did it get there. Did she do something stupid? Ana is torn between the feelings for Dohlan and Jaden. She is torn who she is, and it seems that everyone wants a piece of her. Sometimes all she wants to do is run away, but she has a duty to do. When Ryland is dying another secret is revealed to Ana, and she wonders what more secrets is her company hiding. It seems everyone is keeping secrets for her.

Again in this story, Ana faces her wicked aunt Dreya , will she lose her grip on herself or will Dreya have a chance to destroy her?

At the end of this story, Ana makes a discovering truth about herself, one that she is not yet willing to accept or can wrap her mind around it.

This story is so addictive that I never had a chance to put the book down. It flows so naturally and there is a nice amount of tranquility as action waved into the story, just to give it that magical touch. Every time you know what is going to happen, the plot changes and leaves you hanging again of what is coming next.

[Stephanie Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm usually pretty good at guessing the plot in a book. I can figure out most of the twists with the main character and any love interest...
That being said, I have no idea what's going to come next in this series. It is packed full of twists and turns. The characters change and grow so much. To say I'm invested in this would be a MAJOR understatement. I have so many questions..
How in the world is Ana going to save the day? What in the heck is going on with her an Dohlan? What will happen between her and Jaden? I can't decide who I like better, they're both pretty amazing (in their own way).
It's so refreshing having no idea what's coming next. But, now I feel like I NEED to get the next book ASAP. I need to know what happens

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first book in this series but this second book was just wow! This exciting second book had me on the edge of my seat holding my breath and biting my nails! The amazing world that the author has built just sucks you in as you join Ana continuing on her journey. There’s adventure, twists and turns & magic & I cannot wait to read the next book!

[Shayay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unique with some cool elements; nice descriptions of the world around the characters. The whole premise is very interesting. The story moves a bit slowly at times, but for the most part I’m entertained. Definitely read the first book first before starting this second book. My major gripe is that I didn’t connect with main character, Ana. She’s too whiny and just came off as weak to me, and she doesn’t really get better. Maybe a bit with her becoming the Balance Bringer, but I wanted her to have an inner strength all her own. I wanted more confidence and not be one step away from a mental breakdown. I feel she would’ve given up if it hadn’t been for the others in her group. I need more growth from her and I’m not seeing it so far, she’s a sad sack. I also wanted more character conversations because they just seem so separate from each other; they don’t connect. Too many secrets going on. Ana, Jaden, and her brother, Ry have just reached the magical world of Hiddenkel and are on the search for a mystical woman, so the bit of a road trip is fun and has a bit of action that’s enjoyable. There’s an evil witch after Ana; her aunt Dreya, who wants to kill her and has cool zombie like soldiers, so that added more fun. Incubus, Dohlan, is also still being a bit of problem; mostly for Ana and her connection with Jaden. I like learning more about Dohlan and his intentions. I feel bad that Jaden didn’t really have a chance to shine in this book; he barely says anything, so it’s kind of hard to feel any connection between Ana and Jaden. Still some sweet moments there.

I just really enjoy the whole idea for this series. I’m excited to see how it’ll end.

[Evelyn Dotson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ana and her crew are back in the second installment of the series. Ana collapsed at the lake and now is waking up to discover she has the ability of the water element. One of her eyes is blue now as well. They set out to find her two sisters. Along the journey, Dreya makes herself known once again and they engage in battle. Ryland takes a blow from a sword that could kill him. As they travel, Dohlan stays close at hand with Ana. He gives her a gold ring to help tie them together. Her and Jaden are still having many issues to realize the full awakening of their bond. Ana is still incomplete and still confused. They run across a village with people who live in the trees. One has taken an especially uncanny interest in Ana, it is Garr. He is from her past as another Balance Bringer. Many bad things transpire while in this village. But, they forge onward with their quest of seeking out the mystic and her sisters. Ana will undergo another truly painful and horrendous change. More secrets are divulged as she changes and they are astonishing! Jaden has been cursed with something from a past life they need to purge. Ry has a secret that is revealed as he continues to struggle for his life. More powers awaken and memoires in Ana. Jaden gives Ana a choice to make. Ana will make a very hard decision that will probably cost her in the long run. She is now Awakened and ready to take the next steps…to be continued! I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ruby McDemon · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading this I tried to take it in small doses to make it last as long as possible. That didn't work out very well because before I even got half way I didn't want to atop reading for almost anything (including eating). I'm loving following Ana on this path to finding herself and saving her origin world. There are so many mysteries to unlock and so much that's unknown to us that I both love it and I hate it. I'm enjoying the slow unveiling and yet I'm one of those people that wants to know it all now. This story is great and I'm loving the journey Ana has embarked on. I can't wait to see what she becomes and what other powers she gains. I'm seeing an epic battle in the future (I hope) and Ana becoming even more awesome than she already is. I can't wait for book 3 to come out and I really hope that it's soon so we can see what else is in store for Ana and her tribe. Also I'm completely team Jaden. Dohlan can go find someone else to stalk and haunt their dreams.

[Teresa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dohlan really

Poor jaden it's clear they both have feeling for each other.I found the whole Dolan creepy and hard to read, ana nearly gets raped and then he is there rubbing her arms sending his sucubus powers to her, he was controller her and it was creepy.ok the split in to 3 well surely each person becomes there own when they set off on there own her older sister feel for him. Ava was controlled by him her heart picked jaden. I get jaden was hurt but clearly dohlan was controlling her it was mental rape even her brother said she could not fight it.I liked the storyline but found the Dolan thing creepy and wish she could push him away.it made her look bad in jadens eyes and hers when it was a sucubus.she is a virgin she doesn't not throw herself at men.Even if she has 3 personality or whatever she was Ana who loves jaden it was sweet.until dohlan took what he wanted

[Tamara Ellen McCaffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

a little long winded but overall a good steady storyline

So I’m not going to lie I’m really finding Ana hard to like. Im seeing small bits of growth in her character and completely understand what the author is trying to do with her character. However I just find she reminds me of a spoilt child that isn’t getting her way. No matter who tries to help her she’s often ungrateful about it. Im loving the way the storyline is heading however feel parts of this book dragged. I feel that it was a little flat in areas. Im loving Jaden and Dohlan has me intrigued although I’m really nervous at what is going to happen with the current love triangle and really hate how Ana can get when it comes to Dohlan, it makes my heart break for Jaden. I’m holding out for more character growth in the next book.

[Lindy Lu Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! It starts where it left off in the first book and jumps right into the nitty gritty.

Becoming the balance bringer is hard as figures out there is a lot to this. As she is finding out who and what she is she is also trying to figure out what or who her heart wants. With two love interests what is a girl to do? It's not like the world depends on her oh but wait it might.

I usually hate love triangles but this one feels different it's not really her fault. Dohlan just sort of does what he wants and he doesn't really care. Jayden and Dohlan both seem like two really cool dudes. Anyways I can't wait to finish this series so I can see what she fully becomes and who she chooses as her lover boy.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this book, I wanted to write and post this review to share my honest experiences toward the story.

This is the second book in the Balance Bringer Chronicles, which is, in my opinion, even more exciting and mesmerizing than the first. We pick up where the first book left off and from page one, the story unveils a fantastic and amazing world and a plot that immerses you. With so many twists and turns, it was hard to put down to perform everyday tasks. And there was a lot of development of the characters themselves and the backstory that shapes the series. The conflict is more in-depth and thorough than I originally thought while reading the first and getting to the end made me really wish I had book 3 right there and then. Definitely high expectations for book 3!

[C.J. Santiago · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story

Ana is the balance bringer and her trials have only just begun. She and her tracker and brother are in Hiddenkel and must find the mystic. Her two sisters are both dead and they left her mother when they crossed realms. She must transform into who she is meant to be, and it can be a very tiring and painful period.

She never met or knew her father and her sister Kiah. Dohlan, she has communicated with for two years. And believes him to be a dream. She has no idea he is real until she crossed over. Chystia died in the human world, but after many days, And learns something about her connection to her sisters.

This is an off but interesting story. Not my usual read, but has continued to grow on me.

Read on my friends

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! You are grabbed and taken along this story line turning page after page to see what could possibly happen next. With so many secrets hidden from Ana, can she and her crew find the mystic? Can she lead as the Balance Bringer? Does Dohlan have an ulterior motive or does he just like Ana? Fighting battles along the way as she gains some new powers. Going through many personal trials can only make her more determined and stronger. With so many twists and turns your are brought along the story and you just can't put it down until you see what could possibly happen next. This book grabbed me even more than the first in the series and I can't wait to see what will happen next! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here were strictly my own.

[LooseBoots · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will say upfront that I had a pause at 30% in this book and told the author that I was not happy with the reference to Ana ( the main character) keep having carnal thoughts. She put it in context for me.
Having had that break I will say now that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I can’t wait for the next one. Ana experiences a great deal of growth and hopefully is ready for the challenges ahead. It is truly a magical masterpiece and a joyous must experience.
The reason I said all this is that I pride myself on giving an honest review.
The bottom line is would I recommend this.

Wholeheartedly. Don’t give up on it. This is an awesome series.

[Jean · Rating 3 out of 5]

A continuation of her first book. Still very creative and original storytelling. Leaves the reader stoked for the next book.

Why did I give it 3 stars then? I don't like to be a spelling & grammar nag but, the author's editor(s) & proofreader(s) didn't do their job. Or did it very poorly. It's like they just ran a computer spell check program without bothering to read it to see if the words fit the tense or the context. There were so many errors, they distracted me from the enjoyment of the story. I found them so irritating & frustrating, I would have stopped reading the book if I hadn't promised someone I'd read it.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! That basically sums up this book. I loved Awakening even more than the first book in the series, Becoming. It’s very well written and the characters feel very real! I was rooting for Ana the whole time and wondering how on earth she will pull things off! There are a lot of twists throughout the book that I didn’t see coming so I was hooked just waiting to see what happens next. And what can I say, I just really like Dohlan. I can tell you this much, this series is well worth the read! The story is fast paced and exciting!

I received a copy from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book begins where the last one ended. It's fast paced, action packed, and completely grabs you from page one. The world building is so well done! Such vivid descriptions with minimal words! You can smell the plant life, see the colors, and feel textures.
Ana and her guys continue the quest to be reunited with her sisters and balance the world. Along the way Ana has to make some tough choices. Can she save Ryland, the world, and her sisters? Dohlan returns. Exactly what role will he play in her life as the story unfolds?
Awakening is gripping, emotion invoking, and rich in detail. I love this series and I am looking forward to seeing where this journey takes me in the next book.

[Michelle VanDaley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ana's journey is definitely worth reading. As she discovers herself and comes into her powers you can't help becoming invested in her. I really enjoy the world the author has created in this series. The pacing is on point revealing some information but still leaving the reader wanting more. This is a must read series for all fantasy and paranormal fans. I look forward to more in this series and from this author

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

An addictive continuation of The Balance Bringer series! In book 2, we follow Ana and the gang into the world of Hiddenkel. There Ana begins to discover more of her abilities and more about herself as the Balance Bringer. I liked seeing the interactions between Ana and Jaden as they learn more about their bond, but Dohlan definitely became a constant snag in them getting closer throughout. Not to mention Ana's worry over her hurt brother Ry. I cannot wait to continue this series with book 3!

[Charlotte Hope Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awakening

Awesome. Ana is learning more about herself. She has already became one with water. Now her task is to become one with the ground. She keeps finding herself with Dohlan and doesn't know how he did it this time. She realizes that her sister Khia's had plans to get married to Dohlan and have a family. She had gotten tired of being told she was part of the Triune and was 30 years old and no sisters had been born.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book will keep you captivated, so follow along with the suspense, mystery, adventure, and finding herself. Ana is starting to become the balance bringer. But with each transformation there is a lot of pain and truths. So follow along while she finds herself. What she feels for Dolan, Jaden and what truths she find on her sisters. See the mystery’s she uncovers. The hate she sees in her Aunt and what her aunt is doing to the land. Hope is always on the horizon.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ana's journey continues, there are many secrets to learn, and she will have lots of challenges ahead. Can she bring balance? Or will Dreya prove to be too much? I enjoyed Ana's tale, the fantastic world of Hiddenkel and the creatures living in it, and all the complications that come with who she is, and I look forward to finding out what happens next.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.

[Kathy Brenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I did the others before it.

Ana is confused about her attraction to both Jayden and Dohlan, but knows that she must make a choice. She finds out the truth about her sisters and although it is confusing, she comes to terms with it. In this book she goes through another transformation - meets someone important to her family - unlocks ancient memories within herself. She is now ready for the part of her journey.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is this series is fantastic! What a read! I started it and couldn’t put it down. Right from the start it keeps you turning the pages to see what is going to happen next. You meet new characters and go on an adventure that is intense. I still don’t know if Dohlan is good or bad. He is a very complex character. We also find out more about the three sisters and their duty to the world. Now it’s off to see the Mystic and find out more in the next book for Ana and her crew.

[Shabana]

First of all, I really love the cover for this book. Second of all, I loved the story and everything! I really enjoyed the first book, so I was excited to be able to read this one. I can’t wait to be able to read the next one, because I don’t have a clue where it will be going!

[Cali Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was a great read from beginning to end and was so hard to put down once I started this action packed journey. An edge of your seat, emotionally thrilling, heart racing adventure filled with magical and engaging charters, witty dialog, heart racing twists and dangerous turns. Great reading!

[Cleocutie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ana is back and we get to follow right along my with her in her journey to finding out who she actually is what she can do. I love her personality and how she stays strong in face of everything she goes through.

[Tiffany Skimerhorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect

A wondeful story to get lost in. I couldn't put the first 2 down. I knew I would have to wait after the 3rd but I going forth anyway!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story grabber

Excellent continuation of ana’s story, can’t wait to see where she goes next. So many plot twists that keep you guessing

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

Pretty interesting story. Seems a bit jumbled to me sometimes, but then more understandable. Am looking forward to learning more.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great followup to the first book

Another great book by Debra Kristi. Wonderful fantasy and triangles. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to read the next.