The Broken Ones (The Malediction Trilogy, #0.6) in Danielle L. Jensen's Reader Group

May 14, 2017 Danielle Jensen added it · (Review from the author)

Shelves: my-books

I've been asked quite a few times about my recommended reading order, so here it is:

1. STOLEN SONGBIRD (Book One of The Malediction Trilogy)
2. HIDDEN HUNTRESS (Book Two of The Malediction Trilogy)
3. THE BROKEN ONES (Prequel to The Malediction Trilogy)
4. WARRIOR WITCH (Book Three of The Malediction Trilogy)

THE BROKEN ONES is, for the most part, a standalone, but I DID write it with the fans of the trilogy in mind. As such, there will be some minor spoilers if you read it before the first two nove ...more

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Apr 12, 2017 Olivia rated it really liked it

Shelves: netgalley-reviews

“The Broken Ones” is a prequel to the Malediction Trilogy. I’ll admit that I have not read the trilogy, but since this was a prequel, I was hoping it wouldn’t matter. The world-building is lacking, however, in this prequel, and for that reason, I would say it is mainly intended for people who have already read the trilogy. This one seems to provide a backstory for a few key characters in the trilogy (further research led me to their roles in the trilogy as well as information about the world). H “The Broken Ones” is a prequel to the Malediction Trilogy. I’ll admit that I have not read the trilogy, but since this was a prequel, I was hoping it wouldn’t matter. The world-building is lacking, however, in this prequel, and for that reason, I would say it is mainly intended for people who have already read the trilogy. This one seems to provide a backstory for a few key characters in the trilogy (further research led me to their roles in the trilogy as well as information about the world). Here, in Trollus, trolls are born primarily with powers in a fae-like manner and those who are not pure-blooded (e.g. half-bloods) are treated very poorly- as are the pure-bloods born without enough powers, like Penelope.

There is a revolution underfoot (seems like maybe two), each one supporting one of the sons of the King who rules with an iron fist. They are both in the closet/not clearly out, as this would be treason. Penelope’s younger sister, Anais, was betrothed to the elder son, Tristan, and it is mentioned that this was broken but not why. Anais is still in love with Tristan, but his feelings towards her are less clear. Tristan’s right-hand man, who has been helping with the revolution, Marc is disfigured but powerful. Marc and Penelope have been secretly in love with the other for years- but their friendship has led both to disguise their feelings. Penelope, without powers, is doomed to live a short life. If she were to bond with anyone (a marriage-type ceremony controlled by the King), it is likely that they would die when she died (although not everyone does, most do die when their bonded does). Penelope’s father, the Duke, is behind the other planned revolution with Roland, the King’s young and mean son, which he controls.

Just after Penelope finally admits her feelings to Marc, her father wants to use them to his twisted ends, and forces her to get closer to Marc in order to root out his secrets/what he knows about the rebellion. Penelope doesn’t want to do it, but it seems to be the only thing keeping her father from ending her life. It’s a sad tale, as she is fighting stereotypes, her father, and her own feelings. The viewpoints alternate between Penelope and Marc. Overall, I really enjoyed the love story but wish I had more background to understand this alternate world- it certainly made me want to read the trilogy!

This is a well written book with a beautiful love story that will be a must for people who love the Malediction Trilogy. Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through netgalley. All opinions are my own. ...more

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Aug 12, 2017 Elliot A rated it really liked it

Shelves: ya, fantasy

We are back in Trollus, but this time before the Songbird’s entrance.

This is the story of Marc and Penelope and provides us with an explanation for Marc’s character in the The Malediction Trilogy.

I always liked Marc and was looking forward to reading more about him through his point of view, which also gives a different perspective on Tristan.

Sadly, I wasn’t a fan of Penelope. I understood where she came from and that her life was not the greatest, yet I sensed a character trait that I didn’t ...more

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Nov 19, 2017 Selene rated it it was amazing

Booktube-a-Thon July 24, 2017-July 30, 2017
Challenge #4 - Read about a character that is very different than you.

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Jun 10, 2017 Amy Braun rated it it was amazing

I knew the moment I picked up THE BROKEN ONES that it would break my heart. While I definitely got what I'd expected, and that is not a bad thing at all. It was rewarding to return to the harsh, yet beautiful world of Trollus and its cruel tyranny. I've always loved Marc and have had a soft spot for him from the beginning, and it was great to have him in the spotlight for a change, though honestly, his and Penelope's story was filled with so much struggle and so much strife it was heartbreaking ...more

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Jul 28, 2017 Sherry rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: own

After finishing the Malediction Trilogy and loving it, I really wanted to get to know more about Marc and Penelope. The second I started reading this book I knew it was going to be a great and heartbreaking story. The book, even though we know the outcome, was still compelling to read. I loved Marc from the Malediction Trilogy, he was one of the most complex characters of the series. He was so tortured from his pasted and it was nice to see his story brought beautifully to life in The Broken One ...more

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Jun 23, 2017 Nicole rated it it was amazing

Shelves: books, fantasy, romance, adventure, ya

Danielle's amazing writing once again doesn't let the readers down. What an amazing addition to the Malediction Trilogy! I loved learning more about the character's pasts; characters that I love and will always be important to me. I love how Danielle is able to mix fantasy, romance and political intrigue perfectly! Her books are always a pleasure to read while also being smart and complex. I can't wait to see what other incredible worlds she will create for us! ...more

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Aug 11, 2017 BellaKara rated it it was amazing

Absolutely fantastic. I had been waiting so long or this and the book did not disappoint at all. It's sad they couldn't be saved but their story is so amazing and lovable. A truly love conquers all tale ...more

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