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The Destroyer Trilogy #3
Darkening Chaos
Libby Sparks has the power to destroy the world. She has prophecy and destiny backing her bid to take down the Guardians. She even has an army. What she doesn’t have is a plan.
No matter how hard Libby tries to follow her destiny, the pieces never seem to fall her into place. Every effort Libby makes to build her army and organize an attack is countered by complications. Broken bonds may cost Libby power she desperately needs. Betrayal threatens to break her army. What may prove to be her downfall are the secrets hidden behind unbreakable Guardian Oaths that hold the key to her success. If Libby cannot find the answers in time, everything she has worked for since her Inquest will be lost. Lives will be lost as well, and not just hers. Failure means death … for everyone.
No matter how hard Libby tries to follow her destiny, the pieces never seem to fall her into place. Every effort Libby makes to build her army and organize an attack is countered by complications. Broken bonds may cost Libby power she desperately needs. Betrayal threatens to break her army. What may prove to be her downfall are the secrets hidden behind unbreakable Guardian Oaths that hold the key to her success. If Libby cannot find the answers in time, everything she has worked for since her Inquest will be lost. Lives will be lost as well, and not just hers. Failure means death … for everyone.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2013
7 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
DelSheree Gladden
48 books447 followersDelSheree Gladden was one of those shy, quiet kids who spent more time reading than talking. Literally. She didn't speak a single word for the first three months of preschool. Her fascination with reading led to many hours spent in the library and bookstores, and eventually to writing. She wrote her first novel when she was sixteen years old, but spent ten years rewriting it before having it published.
Native to New Mexico, DelSheree and her family spent several years in Colorado for college and work before moving back home to be near family. When not writing novels, you can find DelSheree reading, painting, sewing, and working with other authors.
DelSheree has several bestselling young adult series and has hit the USA Today Bestseller list twice as part of box sets. DelSheree also has contemporary romance, cozy mystery, and paranormal new adult series. Her writing is as varied as her reading interests.
Native to New Mexico, DelSheree and her family spent several years in Colorado for college and work before moving back home to be near family. When not writing novels, you can find DelSheree reading, painting, sewing, and working with other authors.
DelSheree has several bestselling young adult series and has hit the USA Today Bestseller list twice as part of box sets. DelSheree also has contemporary romance, cozy mystery, and paranormal new adult series. Her writing is as varied as her reading interests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 14, 2013
Fantastic!!
One of my favorite series ever! I had high hopes for other series, but they lost me on book 3 or book 2 was just a filler. This was NOT the case with Mrs Gladden's The Destroyer Trilogy. So happy to know the quality from the first 2 books carried over once more. And I'm very sad the series is over for me. But maybe it's not over yet for you. If that's the case, READ THIS SERIES! You will not be disappointed.
I just finished reading this about 15 minutes ago and I wish I had someone to discuss this with right now. I totally loved this book. I feel very satisfied with the ending and loved the way the story progressed. I would love to see this series made into movies but that doesn't always translate well. The movie I have in my mind is so much better than anyone else can capture. LOL
And the characters... oy!! I will miss them terribly. I guess I will be re-reading this series very soon.
I was given a free e copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favorite series ever! I had high hopes for other series, but they lost me on book 3 or book 2 was just a filler. This was NOT the case with Mrs Gladden's The Destroyer Trilogy. So happy to know the quality from the first 2 books carried over once more. And I'm very sad the series is over for me. But maybe it's not over yet for you. If that's the case, READ THIS SERIES! You will not be disappointed.
I just finished reading this about 15 minutes ago and I wish I had someone to discuss this with right now. I totally loved this book. I feel very satisfied with the ending and loved the way the story progressed. I would love to see this series made into movies but that doesn't always translate well. The movie I have in my mind is so much better than anyone else can capture. LOL
And the characters... oy!! I will miss them terribly. I guess I will be re-reading this series very soon.
I was given a free e copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2014
WOW!!! I finished this book about a week ago and it's taken me this long to gather my thoughts enough to put this review together. What a finish to this trilogy! This was an amazing book and fitting finish to the trilogy.
Darkening Chaos starts almost as soon as The Secret of Betrayal finished. We find Libby entering the Guardian's compound in order to free the captured cyphers and also Braden who was taken after Mr Walters betrayal. Without giving away too much this book follows Libby and her band of cyphers as they plan to take down the Guardians and President Howe before he can kill her on her 18th birthday. Throughout this book she has to face a broken connection to Braden, trying to restore that connection, another betrayal and imprisonment and torture.
After Braden was taken the unthinkable happened and he was forced to make a Guardian Oath to kill Libby - something that he knew would happen and was part of the reason behind him wanting to give Libby his oath prior to the cypher rescue. Even when he came to carry out the oath he was begging Libby to leave and get away from him but she wouldn't go. You start to really see the depth of her feelings in this situation as she cannot bring herself to abandon him and instead makes an irreversible decision in order to help him. This decision has a huge impact on whether she will be able to overthrow the 'government' in place as she comes across another prophecy which indicates that she needs her companion if she intends to win. When they eventually come together and she completely gives in to her feelings for him they try and do everything possible to restore the lost connection. Throughout everything they have been side by side - even before they admitted any kind of feelings for each other. Braden was able to sense something different about her from the beginning - it was the reason he came back to see her after the attack on Milo at the end of Inquest. Their 'story' was thrilling, emotional, up and down and everything in between and never easy. But looking back over the whole trilogy all those experiences shaped their relationship into what it should/needed to be. There's was an epic romance where you were never quite sure if it would all work out in the end - you hoped it would but there was always this little doubt in the back of my mind whether this would happen.
Lance got the happy ever after that I believed he deserved. He started out as an enemy but this was only down to the training given by the Guardians where they were indoctrinated into thinking the destroyer was going to kill everyone and destroy the world. After realising his mistake he quickly became one of Libby's strongest allies and closest confidants. He made up for his earlier transgressions and became a likeable, strong soldier for Libby. He found in Libby his best friend and in Hope his true love. He helped her overcome his anger and she helped him grow too.
Milo underwent the biggest transformation in series. His lust for revenge overtook everything in his life. This started with his relationship with Libby and ended up destroying everything that he once had. His only thought was to get back at the Guardians who attacked his sister, Celia. He became almost unrecognisable by the end of this book. He became violent and mis-trusting with everybody and even managed to turn his own sister against him for the decision that he made. I was the most upset with his changes. I believe that, in the end, he did make up for everything that he did. Unfortunately he could not live with the choices that he made.
Mr Walters became someone more than the betrayer that he was painted to be at the end of Secret of Betrayal. We were able to see more into his decision and the reasons why he did what he did and in the end was instrumental in defeating the Guardians.
This was a well written trilogy and full of action, love, loss, betrayal, success, growth, power and overcoming various obstacles. The characters were written in such a way that you became emotionally invested in them and felt their pains and joy when they did. I would wholeheartedly recommend this set of books to anyone and believe that they would appeal to most people. Amazing and I want to thank DelSheree for the opportunity to read these books (which were sent to me in return for an honest review).
Darkening Chaos starts almost as soon as The Secret of Betrayal finished. We find Libby entering the Guardian's compound in order to free the captured cyphers and also Braden who was taken after Mr Walters betrayal. Without giving away too much this book follows Libby and her band of cyphers as they plan to take down the Guardians and President Howe before he can kill her on her 18th birthday. Throughout this book she has to face a broken connection to Braden, trying to restore that connection, another betrayal and imprisonment and torture.
After Braden was taken the unthinkable happened and he was forced to make a Guardian Oath to kill Libby - something that he knew would happen and was part of the reason behind him wanting to give Libby his oath prior to the cypher rescue. Even when he came to carry out the oath he was begging Libby to leave and get away from him but she wouldn't go. You start to really see the depth of her feelings in this situation as she cannot bring herself to abandon him and instead makes an irreversible decision in order to help him. This decision has a huge impact on whether she will be able to overthrow the 'government' in place as she comes across another prophecy which indicates that she needs her companion if she intends to win. When they eventually come together and she completely gives in to her feelings for him they try and do everything possible to restore the lost connection. Throughout everything they have been side by side - even before they admitted any kind of feelings for each other. Braden was able to sense something different about her from the beginning - it was the reason he came back to see her after the attack on Milo at the end of Inquest. Their 'story' was thrilling, emotional, up and down and everything in between and never easy. But looking back over the whole trilogy all those experiences shaped their relationship into what it should/needed to be. There's was an epic romance where you were never quite sure if it would all work out in the end - you hoped it would but there was always this little doubt in the back of my mind whether this would happen.
Lance got the happy ever after that I believed he deserved. He started out as an enemy but this was only down to the training given by the Guardians where they were indoctrinated into thinking the destroyer was going to kill everyone and destroy the world. After realising his mistake he quickly became one of Libby's strongest allies and closest confidants. He made up for his earlier transgressions and became a likeable, strong soldier for Libby. He found in Libby his best friend and in Hope his true love. He helped her overcome his anger and she helped him grow too.
Milo underwent the biggest transformation in series. His lust for revenge overtook everything in his life. This started with his relationship with Libby and ended up destroying everything that he once had. His only thought was to get back at the Guardians who attacked his sister, Celia. He became almost unrecognisable by the end of this book. He became violent and mis-trusting with everybody and even managed to turn his own sister against him for the decision that he made. I was the most upset with his changes. I believe that, in the end, he did make up for everything that he did. Unfortunately he could not live with the choices that he made.
Mr Walters became someone more than the betrayer that he was painted to be at the end of Secret of Betrayal. We were able to see more into his decision and the reasons why he did what he did and in the end was instrumental in defeating the Guardians.
This was a well written trilogy and full of action, love, loss, betrayal, success, growth, power and overcoming various obstacles. The characters were written in such a way that you became emotionally invested in them and felt their pains and joy when they did. I would wholeheartedly recommend this set of books to anyone and believe that they would appeal to most people. Amazing and I want to thank DelSheree for the opportunity to read these books (which were sent to me in return for an honest review).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2013
The third (and final?) installment of the Inquest series has Libby Sparks front and centre in the action as per usual. Libby, the sole member of the Destroyer class, is slowly unravelling all of the pieces to her destiny as the one pre-determined to destroy the world. The clues needed to determine her true role aren’t easy to come by as there are layers upon layers of secrecy and hierarchy to climb through in order to get the needed information. This sort of fate would be hard on anyone, but Libby, at 16, and her group of friends (including Braden, Lance and Milo among others) are the ones who will attempt to save the world.
My initial reaction upon finishing Darkening Chaos was that I couldn’t believe it was over. I read this installment in the Inquest trilogy during a blistery snow storm and spent the afternoon enthralled by it. I couldn’t have asked for a better afternoon. Why you may ask? Please read on.
One of the aspects I loved about this book was the juxtaposition of Libby's Destroyer destiny and the fact that she's a teen in high school. Destroyer or not, she’s still 16 and wants the normalcy of going to school. Given the serious subject matter in the rest of the novel with the Guardians and impending doom, this reminder lightened the mood and helped make this book a great read.
Another thing I enjoyed this time round was the even further exploration of what Libby can do. In Inquest and in Secret of Betrayal, we see glimpses of her potential, but in this part of the saga we see what Libby can really do. She grows so much as a person, emotionally and in terms of her powers. I spent the entire novel rooting for Libby and her cause. I truly wanted her to succeed. I admired her resolve in trying to do the right thing but not causing irrevocable harm to others (aka killing them) where it would have been easier to go in the situation and play hardball.
This book kept me guessing the entire way through. I can honestly say that I was flip-flopping all the time over who would do what and how it would affect the plot. I am glad to say that usually I wasn’t right. I like when books are unpredictable. It makes them all the more interesting.
My overall impression of this series is that it’s a great read. The novels have great flow and consistency. I loved that the plots linked together seamlessly and I didn’t find myself confused going from one book to the next. This series is a must read for any fans of dystopia. It’s seriously fantastic. I can foresee myself doing a re-read of these books in quick succession when I have the time.
My only wish at the end of this book is that there be a sequel. I don’t quite feel ready to let these characters go.
(I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review :) )
My initial reaction upon finishing Darkening Chaos was that I couldn’t believe it was over. I read this installment in the Inquest trilogy during a blistery snow storm and spent the afternoon enthralled by it. I couldn’t have asked for a better afternoon. Why you may ask? Please read on.
One of the aspects I loved about this book was the juxtaposition of Libby's Destroyer destiny and the fact that she's a teen in high school. Destroyer or not, she’s still 16 and wants the normalcy of going to school. Given the serious subject matter in the rest of the novel with the Guardians and impending doom, this reminder lightened the mood and helped make this book a great read.
Another thing I enjoyed this time round was the even further exploration of what Libby can do. In Inquest and in Secret of Betrayal, we see glimpses of her potential, but in this part of the saga we see what Libby can really do. She grows so much as a person, emotionally and in terms of her powers. I spent the entire novel rooting for Libby and her cause. I truly wanted her to succeed. I admired her resolve in trying to do the right thing but not causing irrevocable harm to others (aka killing them) where it would have been easier to go in the situation and play hardball.
This book kept me guessing the entire way through. I can honestly say that I was flip-flopping all the time over who would do what and how it would affect the plot. I am glad to say that usually I wasn’t right. I like when books are unpredictable. It makes them all the more interesting.
My overall impression of this series is that it’s a great read. The novels have great flow and consistency. I loved that the plots linked together seamlessly and I didn’t find myself confused going from one book to the next. This series is a must read for any fans of dystopia. It’s seriously fantastic. I can foresee myself doing a re-read of these books in quick succession when I have the time.
My only wish at the end of this book is that there be a sequel. I don’t quite feel ready to let these characters go.
(I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review :) )
September 19, 2019
* I received copy in exchange of honest review. *
I'm sad it ended, I'm so not ready to give it up and let them go. It's 5 in the morning, it' okay it's Sunday, I know I'll have book hangover in every sense physically and emotionally. This whole series was emotional roller coaster for me.
Every secrets getting revealed purposes and it coming to an end.
It was perfect and I love how it ended all lose end tying up. Knowing what will happen with characters from outside and being happy you already guessed. I was happy enjoyed the whole adventure being on edge and scared if your fav and most connected character dies.
*Spoiler*
That happens, darn it I knows he betrayed and joined opposite side but I connected with him in first part and didn't much like him in second and disliked what he did in this part, but that doesn't mean I wanted him dead. It was really difficult to Love or Hate him, but I love him even being a little vindictive.
When I read what Milo was doing and he died, I stopped reading and cried and sobbed and am now too just thinking.
The emotional stall on me.
She chose Branden I love him, I was going to choose him in the last book only, he is awesome!!!!
It ended perfectly and hope really really hope there is story about Libby and Branden's child. I'm not giving away whether the baby is girl or boy, you have to find that out.
It's absolutely a definitely a must read Trilogy. I highly recommend it.
I will read this Trilogy again and again but I want time, but it's re-read Trilogy.
I'm sad it ended, I'm so not ready to give it up and let them go. It's 5 in the morning, it' okay it's Sunday, I know I'll have book hangover in every sense physically and emotionally. This whole series was emotional roller coaster for me.
Every secrets getting revealed purposes and it coming to an end.
It was perfect and I love how it ended all lose end tying up. Knowing what will happen with characters from outside and being happy you already guessed. I was happy enjoyed the whole adventure being on edge and scared if your fav and most connected character dies.
*Spoiler*
That happens, darn it I knows he betrayed and joined opposite side but I connected with him in first part and didn't much like him in second and disliked what he did in this part, but that doesn't mean I wanted him dead. It was really difficult to Love or Hate him, but I love him even being a little vindictive.
When I read what Milo was doing and he died, I stopped reading and cried and sobbed and am now too just thinking.
The emotional stall on me.
She chose Branden I love him, I was going to choose him in the last book only, he is awesome!!!!
It ended perfectly and hope really really hope there is story about Libby and Branden's child. I'm not giving away whether the baby is girl or boy, you have to find that out.
It's absolutely a definitely a must read Trilogy. I highly recommend it.
I will read this Trilogy again and again but I want time, but it's re-read Trilogy.
March 31, 2015
wow!and I thought it was Milo and Libby in the end!this book showed the ff. lessons: that circumstances and pent-up emotions push us to do things which we really do not want to do; vengeance and greed will lead to terrible pain and downfall; an unrepentant spirit will be overwhelmed with grief and regret; regrets always come last; there's a tiny flicker of light even in the darkest place; there's hope for a repentant spirit; soul searching and examining our own spirituality redirect and repurpose our lives; show compassion and mercy even to people who betray us; love for humanity makes us human; and life is a gift.a very lesson-filled ending to an amazing story! team Braden here!
December 6, 2013
Amazing! I missed my train stop countless times because I got so engrossed in this book! It’s sad to know it’s over, but I love the way Gladden ended this series. I like how small things that may not have seemed important in the other installments have actually turned out to be more important than it initially seemed. I will definitely be reading this trilogy again and hope that it can be made into a movie one day. I love the style in which DelSheree Gladden writes and will definitely be reading more from her.
December 26, 2013
DelSheree does it again! Darkening Chaos was a perfect ending to the trilogy. I was on the edge of my seat at every page. I don't know what words will explain how much I loved this book. It's just a jumble in my mind right now, especially since I just finished the book about 5 seconds ago. I have a lot of emotions and feelings right now, but I can't seem to put them into words. A lot of
DelSheree's books leaves me feeling like that. Darkening Chaos was exciting, exhilarating, gripping, and a definite tear jerker. This book will definitely not disappoint anyone.
DelSheree's books leaves me feeling like that. Darkening Chaos was exciting, exhilarating, gripping, and a definite tear jerker. This book will definitely not disappoint anyone.
October 9, 2013
I wrote a small review under inquest for the whole trilogy. Sad to see it over but it ended appropriately. I do have a few unanswered questions on events that occurred but that's okay. Also the editing could have been a lot better. The price was a little higher than I would have liked, especially for the lack of editing. Would have been more appropriate at $3.99 rather than $4.99. Small difference but an important one for many people. I hope the author keeps this in mind for future series.
August 2, 2013
By far the best book in the trilogy. Full of twists and turns, very captivating. Will certainly read the trilogy again.
August 6, 2016
Private review for company
October 10, 2013
awesome they need to make a movie out of this series!
July 23, 2014
I Loved Darkening Chaos! I Love when series get wrapped up with that nice little bow and gives you the sense of "ahhhhh"!! Yes this book did that! I highly recommend this series to all!!!
June 19, 2017
I started this series super hesitant, because I didn't want to have to force myself to finish another cliche paranormal book, about a supposedly 'powerful' teenager, who doesn't actually use her powers for anything useful, and instead spends the majority of the series complaining about her life, being indecisive about who she loves, and waiting for others to save her etc. While there were some elements of this in the first two books (the main character does start off the series as a 16 year old teen, which is an uncertain and trying time in any girls life), I felt like she eventually grew into her powers and her destiny in this book, and became someone I could genuinely admire.
I often feel like the last book of most series are a bit of a let down, especially after all the build up of plot in previous books, but this book... This book was so NOT disappointing and I loved how it climaxed and then ended. I thought the epilogue was very sweet, and was glad it was included. 5 stars!
I often feel like the last book of most series are a bit of a let down, especially after all the build up of plot in previous books, but this book... This book was so NOT disappointing and I loved how it climaxed and then ended. I thought the epilogue was very sweet, and was glad it was included. 5 stars!
October 3, 2020
Absolutely Amazing!! I can't have enough words to describe the book and I loved the series I'm little sad now that the book is ended but definitely going to reread the book.
***Spoilers***
I liked the ending and how it's nicely wrapped up the story plot. Damn it I knew Milo will betray in the end but I didn't want him to die. I liked Milo in the first part but in second part the way he changes I kind of disliked him.
Definitely a re-read trilogy and absolutely amazing book. Highly recommended!!
***Spoilers***
I liked the ending and how it's nicely wrapped up the story plot. Damn it I knew Milo will betray in the end but I didn't want him to die. I liked Milo in the first part but in second part the way he changes I kind of disliked him.
Definitely a re-read trilogy and absolutely amazing book. Highly recommended!!
May 23, 2014
Nice finish to this trilogy. The love triangle that I despise is still present, but at least it resolves itself kind of early on. I still think it was completely unnecessary and the way in which is resolved itself (i.e. Libby suddenly realized who she couldn't live without) was again just so stereotypical of a vapid teenage romance. Sorry, but there was nothing original about this love triangle and nothing that made it real. It was only ever a big deal in Libby's head and quite frankly, when she's faced with her death and the death of thousands of others, her focus on her silly little love triangle that only existed in her mind was stupid. But enough about that.
I think this book had the least errors of all three books, all of which I read in the Kindle version. The Kindle editions leave off quotation marks so you need to guess where they would be (only one is present so you need to figure our where the start or end quote would be), pairs of words are sometimes flipped, someone messed up in the editing and forgot to delete a word when they added a new one, and things get misspelled. Some of the misspellings are major. For example, did the author mean to say that "It took six months to..." or "I took six months to..." Big difference.
I gave this book 4 stars to round out the trilogy, but that doesn't mean that there weren't flaws in it. The biggest is Milo. Such a waste of a life and I'm not sure what purpose he served other than to... fulfill a prophecy? That one of the Destroyer's own would betray her? I think if that was the purpose, then it could have been done better. Much of the book is trite in the sense that it tries so hard to make something seem important. And it's almost like watching a musical where everything is exaggerated versus reading a book or watching a movie where there is more subtley. Even from Book 2, we can hints of Milo's dark side, but it suddenly just rears its head completely in Book 3. And it happens right away from the beginning and despite the hints, it's still a pretty big jump that it just feels awkward and weird. How did Milo go from being a quiet and sensitive guy to this obsessive psycho? Wasn't Milo supposed to be pretty smart in Book 1? Where did all that go? Did it suddenly disappear in his quest for revenge? I wouldn't think so because villains that rise to power do so because they are also pretty smart. So where did Milo's smarts go? Because it's clear that he suddenly loses his ability to think and rationalize things out. So the sudden change in Milo's character was something that I think was not done well.
The age difference between Braden and Libby is still disturbing and I'm glad to see that others points it out. Obviously, it's only pointed out so that the author can try to justify it, which never really happens. I'll admit that Braden doesn't come across as some perv as he's the one to enforce and insist on the physical boundaries of their relationship. But, nevertheless, it's still a little disturbing that a 23-year-old would even put that kind of emotional burden on a 17-year-old.
The ending is a bit rushed with no real clear explanation on how the cipher zombies were destroyed. It's not so much that I wanted a really long explanation, but so much of the book was spent on Libby and her team trying to discover this that it wasn't really explained to my satisfaction.
All that being said... I really enjoyed this book, hence the 4 stars. I enjoyed it so much that I will go back and read the sweet parts of it. Although the age difference between Braden and Libby is weird (because she's so young), it's still a very sweet relationship. Braden is great and the author did a good job of keeping the relationship safe. Perhaps I'm secretly in love with Braden myself. More importantly, once Libby chooses Braden, that's it. No more back-and-forth between Braden or Milo and I appreciated her maturity in doing this and the author's choice to let that part of the story go. Also, for me, a hallmark of a good story is that it makes me go back and read it. Why? Because I'm not ready to let the characters rest yet. I want more of their happily ever after, even knowing that there can't be another book because there wouldn't be anything to write about. And this book fits that bill for me. I go back because I'm not ready to let Braden and Libby go. OK, more Braden then Libby, but still, I want to spend more time with them and wish I could.
Nevertheless, still a trilogy that I would recommend to others.
I think this book had the least errors of all three books, all of which I read in the Kindle version. The Kindle editions leave off quotation marks so you need to guess where they would be (only one is present so you need to figure our where the start or end quote would be), pairs of words are sometimes flipped, someone messed up in the editing and forgot to delete a word when they added a new one, and things get misspelled. Some of the misspellings are major. For example, did the author mean to say that "It took six months to..." or "I took six months to..." Big difference.
I gave this book 4 stars to round out the trilogy, but that doesn't mean that there weren't flaws in it. The biggest is Milo. Such a waste of a life and I'm not sure what purpose he served other than to... fulfill a prophecy? That one of the Destroyer's own would betray her? I think if that was the purpose, then it could have been done better. Much of the book is trite in the sense that it tries so hard to make something seem important. And it's almost like watching a musical where everything is exaggerated versus reading a book or watching a movie where there is more subtley. Even from Book 2, we can hints of Milo's dark side, but it suddenly just rears its head completely in Book 3. And it happens right away from the beginning and despite the hints, it's still a pretty big jump that it just feels awkward and weird. How did Milo go from being a quiet and sensitive guy to this obsessive psycho? Wasn't Milo supposed to be pretty smart in Book 1? Where did all that go? Did it suddenly disappear in his quest for revenge? I wouldn't think so because villains that rise to power do so because they are also pretty smart. So where did Milo's smarts go? Because it's clear that he suddenly loses his ability to think and rationalize things out. So the sudden change in Milo's character was something that I think was not done well.
The age difference between Braden and Libby is still disturbing and I'm glad to see that others points it out. Obviously, it's only pointed out so that the author can try to justify it, which never really happens. I'll admit that Braden doesn't come across as some perv as he's the one to enforce and insist on the physical boundaries of their relationship. But, nevertheless, it's still a little disturbing that a 23-year-old would even put that kind of emotional burden on a 17-year-old.
The ending is a bit rushed with no real clear explanation on how the cipher zombies were destroyed. It's not so much that I wanted a really long explanation, but so much of the book was spent on Libby and her team trying to discover this that it wasn't really explained to my satisfaction.
All that being said... I really enjoyed this book, hence the 4 stars. I enjoyed it so much that I will go back and read the sweet parts of it. Although the age difference between Braden and Libby is weird (because she's so young), it's still a very sweet relationship. Braden is great and the author did a good job of keeping the relationship safe. Perhaps I'm secretly in love with Braden myself. More importantly, once Libby chooses Braden, that's it. No more back-and-forth between Braden or Milo and I appreciated her maturity in doing this and the author's choice to let that part of the story go. Also, for me, a hallmark of a good story is that it makes me go back and read it. Why? Because I'm not ready to let the characters rest yet. I want more of their happily ever after, even knowing that there can't be another book because there wouldn't be anything to write about. And this book fits that bill for me. I go back because I'm not ready to let Braden and Libby go. OK, more Braden then Libby, but still, I want to spend more time with them and wish I could.
Nevertheless, still a trilogy that I would recommend to others.
October 13, 2014
3.0. If you were okay with everything that happened in Secret of Betrayal, you will really like Darkening Chaos. This book takes the events from the last one to a whole new level. I think that because I was still smarting from the changes in Milo, I wasn’t really able to get behind the other characters in the story.
Plot:
At the end of Secret of Betrayal, the Guardians had captured the Albuquerque Ciphers, Mr. Walters and Braden. Before he is murdered, Mr. Walters tells Libby to find a Seeker, so she can learn the rest of the Destroyer prophecy. He also warns her that there is a new threat she will have to face. Knowing that she will need as many Ciphers as possible to fight with her, she is desperate to rescue them. She’s also desperate to get Braden back, even though she knows that he may have been programmed into killing her. In her efforts, she takes some extreme measures, only to find out that her actions may have actually prevented the prophecy from coming true.
Characters:
It’s no secret that I am disappointed in the changes in Milo. Sadly, he goes through even more changes in Darkening Chaos, and for some reason, I feel compelled to defend him. One thing that really bothers me is that he’s portrayed as a monster and Libby as a helpless victim of his anger when her actions could have prevented a lot of it. She not only constantly lied to him and tried to deceive him; she turned around and did the exact opposite of what she promised to do.
The fact that Libby couldn’t keep her word, and the fact that she even gave her word in the first place, made me like her even less. I wasn’t really thrilled with her relationship with Braden in the first place because of their age difference, and her lying and the fact that she says she can’t live without Braden (which always gives me the creeps) made me even more uncomfortable with it.
There are some new characters. Many of them arrive to help Libby fulfill the prophecy, but there is a Seeker who poses a very large threat. As expected, Howe also returns.
Writing:
Characterization aside, the plot was good, and it did make me want to continue reading. There were a few typos sprinkled here and there, but nothing too bothersome. As in the last book, there is a mention of sex but nothing too graphic. There is also little to no cursing. There is quite a bit more violence than there was in the past books because the action is so much more intense.
The Bottom Line:
A lot of people will like Darkening Chaos. I just wasn’t fully invested because I was still pouting over Milo. The book did tie everything up nicely, and Gladden even gives us a little peek into the future, so we know how everything really turned out.
Plot:
At the end of Secret of Betrayal, the Guardians had captured the Albuquerque Ciphers, Mr. Walters and Braden. Before he is murdered, Mr. Walters tells Libby to find a Seeker, so she can learn the rest of the Destroyer prophecy. He also warns her that there is a new threat she will have to face. Knowing that she will need as many Ciphers as possible to fight with her, she is desperate to rescue them. She’s also desperate to get Braden back, even though she knows that he may have been programmed into killing her. In her efforts, she takes some extreme measures, only to find out that her actions may have actually prevented the prophecy from coming true.
Characters:
It’s no secret that I am disappointed in the changes in Milo. Sadly, he goes through even more changes in Darkening Chaos, and for some reason, I feel compelled to defend him. One thing that really bothers me is that he’s portrayed as a monster and Libby as a helpless victim of his anger when her actions could have prevented a lot of it. She not only constantly lied to him and tried to deceive him; she turned around and did the exact opposite of what she promised to do.
The fact that Libby couldn’t keep her word, and the fact that she even gave her word in the first place, made me like her even less. I wasn’t really thrilled with her relationship with Braden in the first place because of their age difference, and her lying and the fact that she says she can’t live without Braden (which always gives me the creeps) made me even more uncomfortable with it.
There are some new characters. Many of them arrive to help Libby fulfill the prophecy, but there is a Seeker who poses a very large threat. As expected, Howe also returns.
Writing:
Characterization aside, the plot was good, and it did make me want to continue reading. There were a few typos sprinkled here and there, but nothing too bothersome. As in the last book, there is a mention of sex but nothing too graphic. There is also little to no cursing. There is quite a bit more violence than there was in the past books because the action is so much more intense.
The Bottom Line:
A lot of people will like Darkening Chaos. I just wasn’t fully invested because I was still pouting over Milo. The book did tie everything up nicely, and Gladden even gives us a little peek into the future, so we know how everything really turned out.
June 23, 2014
The last part of the Destroyer Trilogy.
In this book we see a Libby a bit more mature or at least she is forced to mature a little more as she is forced to decide between Milo and Braden. The one that accepted her when nobody wanted and the one she has a connection with. Her decision is pretty obvious but lets no say names in case you want to read it.
Anyway, the book revolves around the final battle, the planning, the preparation, the actual battle. All in all I liked the series and this book just closed it in a most excellent way. That surprise before the battle was just, AARGH.. You have to read this book. I can't say more without spoiling parts of it.
My Verdict... 4 stars; the end of a good series in an excellent way. Even the last chapter with the years later part was good to close up the story and tie the last loose knots and finish it masterfully.
In this book we see a Libby a bit more mature or at least she is forced to mature a little more as she is forced to decide between Milo and Braden. The one that accepted her when nobody wanted and the one she has a connection with. Her decision is pretty obvious but lets no say names in case you want to read it.
Anyway, the book revolves around the final battle, the planning, the preparation, the actual battle. All in all I liked the series and this book just closed it in a most excellent way. That surprise before the battle was just, AARGH.. You have to read this book. I can't say more without spoiling parts of it.
My Verdict... 4 stars; the end of a good series in an excellent way. Even the last chapter with the years later part was good to close up the story and tie the last loose knots and finish it masterfully.
July 12, 2014
One of the best, THE BEST series I've ever read. The whole Destroyer concept was very unique and all the character have grown so much. Libby as well as she matures and becomes a stronger person to save the world. I love how each relationships have developed and grown closer. Go team Braden, the chemistry between Libby and him were sizzlin! This book got the whole love triangle right!! And Milo went crazy! Can't believe he'd do that to her. Kinda glad he's out of the picture. The whole ending was great but I'm really hoping Libby does not reconnect with her mom because her mom doesn't deserve it.
March 5, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. Towards the end I started reading slower because I knew that this is it, the last.... and I didn't want it to end.
What I feared in book two became a reality and I was so mad at him! It was a humble decision to give himself up to repent for his deeds.
I have to repeat, you are a very good author, transveying your thoughts and ideas onto paper. It is an absolute delight to read your books and I'm already hooked on the trailer that came with this book!
Congratulations on a series well written.
What I feared in book two became a reality and I was so mad at him! It was a humble decision to give himself up to repent for his deeds.
I have to repeat, you are a very good author, transveying your thoughts and ideas onto paper. It is an absolute delight to read your books and I'm already hooked on the trailer that came with this book!
Congratulations on a series well written.
December 17, 2014
the ending is too neatly wrapped up and perfect to me. yes there are lots of deaths, unhappiness and betrayal as is always the case in an insurrection, but to me everything was too neatly wrapped up.
i find it hard to visualise and understand how talents work in this series. Also, married and pregnant so soon after taking control of the entire world seems too rushed to me.
why is it only one person ruling the entire world?
i find it hard to visualise and understand how talents work in this series. Also, married and pregnant so soon after taking control of the entire world seems too rushed to me.
why is it only one person ruling the entire world?
December 24, 2013
3.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book but was frustrated with all the time jumping. Months and week's would go by and it would just mention something had happened without actually showing. I also felt this book was really rushed in some parts and drug on in others. Although things were a little predictable with Milo, I still liked how the story wrapped up.
September 11, 2015
I received Darkening Chaos as an ARC version from the author. The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion. This author is evil-- she kept me up three nights in a row reading her trilogy because I had to know what happened next. This final book was a perfect ending for the series. Some surprises, many reveals, and as always, twists in the plots. A great read.
October 3, 2016
Wow
I really loved this series, and the fact that there were twists and turns I didn't see coming. Although the last surprise for Howe, I had that one figured out. But still I loved all the characters and thought they were well developed and the story I found captivating.
I really loved this series, and the fact that there were twists and turns I didn't see coming. Although the last surprise for Howe, I had that one figured out. But still I loved all the characters and thought they were well developed and the story I found captivating.
February 9, 2014
I LOVED THIS SERIES. EASY READING!!
May 11, 2014
A perfect ending!
October 11, 2014
i knew it :) libby and braden in the end . i love it , though it's sad milo ended up dead . but the story is very good :)) hoping to read more of your work :)))
October 23, 2014
I knew it! Traitor that's what they were. The ending of this series does a good job of wrapping up the story. Not what I was expecting at all.
April 25, 2018
The trilogy is a fun Saturday of reading. Will not reread.
June 17, 2016
Loved it! Definitely worth recommending!
August 7, 2016
4,5 stars
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