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Caged #5
Fractured
I thought about watching from afar, hidden by the nearby trees or headstones, so I could avoid the onslaught of grief I was sure to be bombarded with. It was cowardly, but I was certain that when faced with the totality of my own grief, I would crumble under the weight of any extra. He was always so strong both physically and emotionally – I selfishly wished for his strength in that moment. If I couldn’t be strong, then I would at least be honorable and bear my pain publicly, for all who loved him to see.
It was by my actions that he was about to be put six feet under, and I owed it to him to be there.
It was by my actions that he was about to be put six feet under, and I owed it to him to be there.
384 pages, ebook
First published March 4, 2013
160 people are currently reading
867 people want to read
About the author
Amber Lynn Natusch
49 books1,551 followersAMBER LYNN NATUSCH is the author of the bestselling Caged series for adults. She was born and raised in Winnipeg, and is still deeply attached to her Canadian roots. She loves to dance and practice Muay Thai―but spends most of her time running a chiropractic practice with her husband, raising two young children, and attempting to write when she can lock herself in the bathroom for ten minutes of peace. Dare You to Lie is her debut YA novel with Tor Teen.
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July 17, 2014
“Ruby…” she sang. “Open your eyes Ruby.” Without hesitation I did."
I’m not sure what to say about this book except I think it’s the best one in the series! Trying to get a handle on all my thoughts and feelings to describe how much I love this book is proving to be a challenge because I’m not sure where to start. How do I describe everything I love about it without it coming across as one big run-on sentence? There are so many details to this book that I had to go back and re-read it because I didn’t miss a single thing. I took notes, I highlighted certain passages and I even tried to read this book slowly (clearly that didn’t happen) but most importantly, I lived in Ruby’s world.
“My fear and my ego drove me to believe that you chose to leave me. I could not find you…my failure was more than I could bear, but my heart never believed you would abandon me. You are mine…”
First, let’s start with the prologue…what is it about Amber Lynn Natusch and her prologues? Talk about pulling you in immediately! I had absolutely no idea where this prologue would take me and lets just say, I enjoyed going into this knowing very little. If I loved all the books in the series before, I’m now seriously obsessed with Fractured, all the characters in this story and Amber. And no, I am not a stalker but a professional fan-girl thank you very much.
"He was my balancing force and I was his. The more we gave into it, the stronger it pulled. Something greater than the two of us was at play, placing us in each other’s lives. It was a destiny – divine intervention. Troubles would always plague us, but nothing could separate us. Not anymore."
Fractured is wrapped-up tightly in mystery that’s Scarlet related. That mystery gave me heartburn and it only generated more questions that needed answers. And as much as I love Scarlet and her sassy ways, she sometimes causes too much trouble which gives me an anxiety attack! Enough about her…
"I had lived in a state of black suspension from that moment on. No sense of time or place or existence, lost in a perpetual tunnel of night. There was no escape. Scarlet had warned me several times that she wasn’t to be trifled with, that her retribution would be epic. A liar she was not."
Ruby is still Ruby but in this book she evolves and finally learns to trust. She’s still the same compassionate, witty and sarcastic heroine but her need for trust and love are much greater. She’s more open to the risk of being vulnerable and she’s no longer running. It was refreshing to see her talk about things that plagued her mind no matter how overwhelming it felt to talk-it-out. Can I get an amen?
Say hello to Anger Management 101! We get to see the angry side of Cooper and Sean. Oh my word, I was not expecting that at all. Not only was I okay with Coop being angry but his level of hotness when up quite a few notches. Like Ruby we see Coop evolve and after all the drama he’s been through, it was nice to see him finally come into his own. I love Sean for the mercurial angel he is, but there’s a reason he becomes so fiercely angry with Ruby (let’s call it misplaced anger) and it was absolutely EPIC! I’m being vague on purpose and trust me when I say, you’ll love it!
There were so many beautiful (emotional) details in this book that touched me in a way I never anticipated. The scene with Peyta broke my heart because it tackles a dark subject matter that hits a little too close to home but while it’s not a huge focal point of the story, it’s handled with grace and dignity. So not only does Amber tackle Peyta’s issue, she also tackles the issue of death with closure and that’s something anyone can relate to. And Ruby needs this closure but Sean comes through and shows her support and tenderness that will move you to tears. I had a lump in my throat and I was overwhelmed by the sadness that Ruby felt.
"He soothed me to sleep, muttering in a language I couldn’t understand and didn’t need to. His love was apparent regardless. With me clutched in his arms I eventually fell asleep, and for once, the nightmares stayed away."
To say that there are different layers to the story is a complete understatement but it’s not distracting in the least bit. These layers give Fractured a certain level of profoundness that will stay with you. I was emotionally invested in all the characters, probably more so than before and the new characters that were introduced (Alice, Jan and Becky) made their way into my heart as well. I wanted to talk to anyone who would listen about the emotional rollercoaster I experienced only a few days ago and it’s not all heartbreak…I found happiness too.
My final two cents: Fractured is by far the best book in the series. This is a story that’s written exceptionally well, rich in characters filled with depth and it’s a book you’ll not soon forget.
I’m not sure what to say about this book except I think it’s the best one in the series! Trying to get a handle on all my thoughts and feelings to describe how much I love this book is proving to be a challenge because I’m not sure where to start. How do I describe everything I love about it without it coming across as one big run-on sentence? There are so many details to this book that I had to go back and re-read it because I didn’t miss a single thing. I took notes, I highlighted certain passages and I even tried to read this book slowly (clearly that didn’t happen) but most importantly, I lived in Ruby’s world.
“My fear and my ego drove me to believe that you chose to leave me. I could not find you…my failure was more than I could bear, but my heart never believed you would abandon me. You are mine…”
First, let’s start with the prologue…what is it about Amber Lynn Natusch and her prologues? Talk about pulling you in immediately! I had absolutely no idea where this prologue would take me and lets just say, I enjoyed going into this knowing very little. If I loved all the books in the series before, I’m now seriously obsessed with Fractured, all the characters in this story and Amber. And no, I am not a stalker but a professional fan-girl thank you very much.
"He was my balancing force and I was his. The more we gave into it, the stronger it pulled. Something greater than the two of us was at play, placing us in each other’s lives. It was a destiny – divine intervention. Troubles would always plague us, but nothing could separate us. Not anymore."
Fractured is wrapped-up tightly in mystery that’s Scarlet related. That mystery gave me heartburn and it only generated more questions that needed answers. And as much as I love Scarlet and her sassy ways, she sometimes causes too much trouble which gives me an anxiety attack! Enough about her…
"I had lived in a state of black suspension from that moment on. No sense of time or place or existence, lost in a perpetual tunnel of night. There was no escape. Scarlet had warned me several times that she wasn’t to be trifled with, that her retribution would be epic. A liar she was not."
Ruby is still Ruby but in this book she evolves and finally learns to trust. She’s still the same compassionate, witty and sarcastic heroine but her need for trust and love are much greater. She’s more open to the risk of being vulnerable and she’s no longer running. It was refreshing to see her talk about things that plagued her mind no matter how overwhelming it felt to talk-it-out. Can I get an amen?
Say hello to Anger Management 101! We get to see the angry side of Cooper and Sean. Oh my word, I was not expecting that at all. Not only was I okay with Coop being angry but his level of hotness when up quite a few notches. Like Ruby we see Coop evolve and after all the drama he’s been through, it was nice to see him finally come into his own. I love Sean for the mercurial angel he is, but there’s a reason he becomes so fiercely angry with Ruby (let’s call it misplaced anger) and it was absolutely EPIC! I’m being vague on purpose and trust me when I say, you’ll love it!
There were so many beautiful (emotional) details in this book that touched me in a way I never anticipated. The scene with Peyta broke my heart because it tackles a dark subject matter that hits a little too close to home but while it’s not a huge focal point of the story, it’s handled with grace and dignity. So not only does Amber tackle Peyta’s issue, she also tackles the issue of death with closure and that’s something anyone can relate to. And Ruby needs this closure but Sean comes through and shows her support and tenderness that will move you to tears. I had a lump in my throat and I was overwhelmed by the sadness that Ruby felt.
"He soothed me to sleep, muttering in a language I couldn’t understand and didn’t need to. His love was apparent regardless. With me clutched in his arms I eventually fell asleep, and for once, the nightmares stayed away."
To say that there are different layers to the story is a complete understatement but it’s not distracting in the least bit. These layers give Fractured a certain level of profoundness that will stay with you. I was emotionally invested in all the characters, probably more so than before and the new characters that were introduced (Alice, Jan and Becky) made their way into my heart as well. I wanted to talk to anyone who would listen about the emotional rollercoaster I experienced only a few days ago and it’s not all heartbreak…I found happiness too.
My final two cents: Fractured is by far the best book in the series. This is a story that’s written exceptionally well, rich in characters filled with depth and it’s a book you’ll not soon forget.
March 11, 2013
***I had this super long and in-depth review written, but then I lost it. I cried. Ok, so I didn't cry, but I did dramatically drop to my knees, raise my arms to the heavens and let loose a long "NO". Here is a less awesome and hastily written version instead.***
Also, SPOILERS... BEWARE.
I want to preface this review by stating that I absolutely loved the first four books in the caged series, and Amber Lynn Natusch quickly became one of my favorite authors. I was nearly counting the minutes until Fractured came out since the cliff-hanger in Scarred basically wrecked me. I even went as far as to read the entire series again in about three days to prepare for the release of this fifth book. I was expecting to fall head over heels for Fractured like I did the previous books, so imagine my surprise when I didn't.
Now let me explain before you flame me. I felt like Fractured just couldn't hold up to the awesomeness that was the previous four books in the Caged series. Thing is, there was so much potential for it to, but I felt this book just fell flat of my expectations, and here is why:
1.)Chapter 32/33 and the dreaded 'Deus ex Machina': Perhaps the biggest thing that bothered me about Fractured was the contents of chapters 32 and 33. When chapter 32 began, I was so confused, I had to actually back track and figure out if I accidentally skipped some pages of pivotal information. I didn't. It just seemingly came out of nowhere. When Cooper lead her into that trap, my first instinct was that I skipped something, my second that Ruby must be having a dream. There was no smooth transition to this climax, and the whole situation just left me feeling confused. The whole mind-control thing came out of left field, and I was not a fan of the storyline even after the initial shock of it.
Then there is the whole 'Ruby kills herself to save everyone, but then Sean's mother sends her back all hunky-dory' fiasco. I've never really been a fan of divine intervention or 'Deus ex Machina'. To me, it feels like a cop-out. I prefer characters to fix their own problems so they are able to learn and grow. For those of you unfamiliar with 'Deus ex Machina' as a literary device, it originated in Greek plays when a God/Goddess was lowered to the stage with a crane-like machine to fix a conflict. Today, it's more broadly referred to when there is a sudden or unexpected solution to a hopeless or unsolvable problem. Hence, Sean's angel mother bringing Ruby back to life and fixing Scarlet. Which leads me to my next issue...
2.) The absence of Scarlet, and the unanswered questions it brings: Let me just be frank here... Scarlet kicks ass. Ruby without Scarlet can be weak, unexciting, and dull. It's annoying to me that we still don't know what happened during those missing three weeks. It should have been addressed, because now it's just a frustrating loose end, and we have no idea if or when it will be resolved. Not to mention, we also don't know the reasoning behind Scarlet's disappearance in Ruby. Sure, it was fixed deus-ex-machina style, but there was never an explanation as to WHY, or HOW it happened in the first place. If it was drastic enough to cause Ruby to start going blind again, then I feel like that's pertinent information we need. There are just too many blanks that haven't been filled in. When there are gaping holes in a story, I tend to get a little annoyed.
3.) In which Cooper is becoming Sean: Seriously. Cooper, what are you doing? Cooper, STAHP! The reason we love you, is because of who you are. You do you. Besides, Sean has the quota for hot-headed-brooding-male all locked up.
4.) Gavin is becoming a hypocritical douche: Actually, I think this one kind of explains itself.
What I liked:
1.) I'm glad Cooper is the Alpha and not actually in love with Ruby. I would have hated for her to have to choose and break his heart. Plus, it opens up and interesting story line, like...
2.) The introduction of the British werewolves into the pack. Not going to lie, I enjoy those Brits and I'm interested to see what they add to the group. Even if I was less than impressed with the circumstances in which they came into the lives of Ruby and crew, I'm glad they are sticking around.
3.) Matty got to be not-evil again. Also, Ruby got some closure, so yay for that. I liked Matty's character before he went all ruthless-killing-machine.
I know it probably seems like I couldn't possibly have enjoyed Fractured after I ripped into it like this. Although it didn't meet my expectations, and I feel it maybe didn't do justice to the series, it WAS entertaining for the most part. I still love this series and the author. This book just... I don't know, it didn't do it for me like the others did. I'll just have to wait and see what the last two books in the series bring!
March 12, 2013
I need some time to think about this review.
OK, I thought about it. I really hate what I'm about to write for a couple of reasons. One, because I think ALN is a cool chick and two, because this series has been such a joy to read over the past year or so.
If I'm just rating this book by itself, it's 2 stars, but because I have such a healthy respect for this series, I'm giving it 3. There is nothing wrong with the structure of the story or the author's writing. It's really hard in reviews like this to pick on the story because it's not MY story. It's ALN's story. It's Ruby's story. It's not for me to say what should or shouldn't be told or how it's done. But I feel like this series took me on an amazing high and then just dropped me like I was nothing.
At the end of Scarred, I was friggin breathless. That book was nonstop action from start to finish and the ending! The ending left me in such knots, I couldn't speak for about an hour after. In fact, I was so blown away, I couldn't write a thoughtful review. I absolutely couldn't wait for Scarlet to take over as narrator. It seemed logical that we'd get to feel her grief, watch her deal with it in her own, crazy, messed up way and hopefully come to terms with it and her shared existence with Ruby.
It didn't happen.
I didn't get Scarlet, I got Ruby waking up three weeks later with no memory of what happened during the period when Scarlet took over. And I was just as disappointed and completely lost as Ruby was when she realized it.
If I'm honest, I had to struggle to get through this because after that amazing build up in Scarred, it was just...nothing. It felt like filler before we could get to the next book, which is presumably the lead up to the dramatic conclusion of the series.
Yeah, yeah, I found out some key things in Fractured--Cooper is an alpha, Cooper and Ruby pick up some pack members and ultimately defeat Tobias, but honestly? It wasn't enough to frame an entire book around and because of that, the drama was totally forced. The bottom line is I just didn't believe it. There was never a point during the story when I felt like Ruby, or even Cooper, was in any type of danger and I was never afraid that they wouldn't succeed in defeating whatever enemy was out to get them this time. It's like I could have read the first chapter and the last chapter and been no better or worse off for it.
There were little details that felt forced as well. Jay leaving Peyta? Peyta cutting herself? In the end, none of it amounted to anything. I never thought for a moment that Jay was leaving Peyta for good or didn't want her anymore, so it rang false, especially because the whole ordeal was prefaced by Sean talking about how much Jay loves Peyta. Moreover, it seemed very out of character for Jay to leave without a word. Certainly a being as old as Jay would not handle a situation with such immaturity. To top it off, it wasn't even explained at the end. The reader is simply supposed to accept that they made up and everything is fine now. Peyta and Jay will live happily ever after--once Sean finds a way to make that happen. But I'm not even remotely concerned that he won't be able to do it.
Heh.
Another thing that didn't ring true for me is this relationship(?) with Gavin. For the life of me, I can't understand how Ruby is comfortable telling Tobias to get fracked or committing suicide via knife to the throat but can't tell Gavin to go to hell. Why? Because he has answers? Guess who else has answers? SCARLET. And though Scarlet has been absent for weeks, she is certainly more forthcoming with information than Gavin. Furthermore Ruby's own subconscious, as we saw through one of her repressed memories, already possesses all the knowledge she really needs. At this point, I find it far more likely that she'll find answers within herself than from Gavin. And so as the reader, it's very easy to dismiss this whole character as a mere annoyance, distracting from the meat of the story. I can't fathom why Ruby doesn't feel the same way. She's a smart lady. And as for Gavin's warnings about Sean--how can they possibly place a seed of doubt in her mind? Especially since Sean's been nothing but trustworthy? This may have been believable in the first or second book, but not now. Not after what Ruby and Sean have shared.
The only part of the story that was satisfying for me was the closure with Matty. I'm glad ALN put that in there and I wish there could've been more.
So I'm going to wind this down by saying that I'm disappointed but hopeful. I know ALN can write action. I know she can make me feel heartbreak and then turn around and console me with warmth and love. I have no doubt that she's going to take me back to those things in Strayed.
OK, I thought about it. I really hate what I'm about to write for a couple of reasons. One, because I think ALN is a cool chick and two, because this series has been such a joy to read over the past year or so.
If I'm just rating this book by itself, it's 2 stars, but because I have such a healthy respect for this series, I'm giving it 3. There is nothing wrong with the structure of the story or the author's writing. It's really hard in reviews like this to pick on the story because it's not MY story. It's ALN's story. It's Ruby's story. It's not for me to say what should or shouldn't be told or how it's done. But I feel like this series took me on an amazing high and then just dropped me like I was nothing.
At the end of Scarred, I was friggin breathless. That book was nonstop action from start to finish and the ending! The ending left me in such knots, I couldn't speak for about an hour after. In fact, I was so blown away, I couldn't write a thoughtful review. I absolutely couldn't wait for Scarlet to take over as narrator. It seemed logical that we'd get to feel her grief, watch her deal with it in her own, crazy, messed up way and hopefully come to terms with it and her shared existence with Ruby.
It didn't happen.
I didn't get Scarlet, I got Ruby waking up three weeks later with no memory of what happened during the period when Scarlet took over. And I was just as disappointed and completely lost as Ruby was when she realized it.
If I'm honest, I had to struggle to get through this because after that amazing build up in Scarred, it was just...nothing. It felt like filler before we could get to the next book, which is presumably the lead up to the dramatic conclusion of the series.
Yeah, yeah, I found out some key things in Fractured--Cooper is an alpha, Cooper and Ruby pick up some pack members and ultimately defeat Tobias, but honestly? It wasn't enough to frame an entire book around and because of that, the drama was totally forced. The bottom line is I just didn't believe it. There was never a point during the story when I felt like Ruby, or even Cooper, was in any type of danger and I was never afraid that they wouldn't succeed in defeating whatever enemy was out to get them this time. It's like I could have read the first chapter and the last chapter and been no better or worse off for it.
There were little details that felt forced as well. Jay leaving Peyta? Peyta cutting herself? In the end, none of it amounted to anything. I never thought for a moment that Jay was leaving Peyta for good or didn't want her anymore, so it rang false, especially because the whole ordeal was prefaced by Sean talking about how much Jay loves Peyta. Moreover, it seemed very out of character for Jay to leave without a word. Certainly a being as old as Jay would not handle a situation with such immaturity. To top it off, it wasn't even explained at the end. The reader is simply supposed to accept that they made up and everything is fine now. Peyta and Jay will live happily ever after--once Sean finds a way to make that happen. But I'm not even remotely concerned that he won't be able to do it.
Heh.
Another thing that didn't ring true for me is this relationship(?) with Gavin. For the life of me, I can't understand how Ruby is comfortable telling Tobias to get fracked or committing suicide via knife to the throat but can't tell Gavin to go to hell. Why? Because he has answers? Guess who else has answers? SCARLET. And though Scarlet has been absent for weeks, she is certainly more forthcoming with information than Gavin. Furthermore Ruby's own subconscious, as we saw through one of her repressed memories, already possesses all the knowledge she really needs. At this point, I find it far more likely that she'll find answers within herself than from Gavin. And so as the reader, it's very easy to dismiss this whole character as a mere annoyance, distracting from the meat of the story. I can't fathom why Ruby doesn't feel the same way. She's a smart lady. And as for Gavin's warnings about Sean--how can they possibly place a seed of doubt in her mind? Especially since Sean's been nothing but trustworthy? This may have been believable in the first or second book, but not now. Not after what Ruby and Sean have shared.
The only part of the story that was satisfying for me was the closure with Matty. I'm glad ALN put that in there and I wish there could've been more.
So I'm going to wind this down by saying that I'm disappointed but hopeful. I know ALN can write action. I know she can make me feel heartbreak and then turn around and console me with warmth and love. I have no doubt that she's going to take me back to those things in Strayed.
March 6, 2013
This is a book that needs to be read as part of the series. It would be very difficult to follow if you tried to start with this one, so if you haven't read the first four books of the Caged Series, do that first.
We were left heart broken and gutted at the end of Scarred and the prologue to Fractured didn't help mend those wounds a whole lot. I was finally able to take a deep breath during the first chapter. This book is built around the chasm that has opened up between Ruby and Scarlet and how Ruby is forced to live with the consequences of their actions, while facing yet another threat to their very existence.
There are some wonderful new characters who add humor and potential danger to Ruby's already tenuous existence. The development of Sean and Ruby's characters in this book is fantastic! I love the direction their relationship takes and the maturity and growth that Ruby exhibits. I've always been a little harsh regarding Ruby's immaturity and overall daftness, but in Fractured she demonstrates that she has learned from past mistakes and shows consideration and empathy for others.
There is all the snarkiness, action and intrigue that you expect from a Caged novel, as well as a few tender moments as well. I think this is my favorite book of the series so far (and yes, I say that every time a new book is released, because they just keep getting better)!
We were left heart broken and gutted at the end of Scarred and the prologue to Fractured didn't help mend those wounds a whole lot. I was finally able to take a deep breath during the first chapter. This book is built around the chasm that has opened up between Ruby and Scarlet and how Ruby is forced to live with the consequences of their actions, while facing yet another threat to their very existence.
There are some wonderful new characters who add humor and potential danger to Ruby's already tenuous existence. The development of Sean and Ruby's characters in this book is fantastic! I love the direction their relationship takes and the maturity and growth that Ruby exhibits. I've always been a little harsh regarding Ruby's immaturity and overall daftness, but in Fractured she demonstrates that she has learned from past mistakes and shows consideration and empathy for others.
There is all the snarkiness, action and intrigue that you expect from a Caged novel, as well as a few tender moments as well. I think this is my favorite book of the series so far (and yes, I say that every time a new book is released, because they just keep getting better)!
March 9, 2013
Oh, where do I even begin?
Ah yes! Amber Lynn Natusch is an evil bitch. Plain and simple.
Now, before all of you out there in the Caged fandom come at me, let me also state that I told her this to her FACE. Ok, that’s a lie. But I did tell her in an instant message with tears streaming down my cheeks.
Scarred was a painful book to read. There is an event at the end of that book that will rip your heart out, stomp on it with football cleats and doesn’t even have the decency to put it back for you. It is PAINFUL. I think part of me even held a little resentment toward ALN for making me go through that awful experience with characters I love.
Ugh!! And then what happens AFTER the horrible event!!! That’s just as bad.
Well, once Scarred was behind me, I thought I was past the pain and could move on with my life…err, the story! Move on with the STORY. *shifty eyes*
Not. So. Much.
Yeah, remember that heart left stomped on the pavement??? ALN is back and in Fractured, she pulls it BACK OUT and pours salt on your wounds.
The horrible event I speak of gets brought back up in a very RAW way. The story line proceeds from when Ruby returns and everything is going along, smooth like butta’! Then BAM!!! Sadface.
You know what happens after people die?? That’s right. You have a funeral to attend.
Oh my GAWD I cried like a big bitch! And I was too heartbroken to be ashamed. And that resulted in an instant message to the author stating “you’re an evil bitch”. Except at the time, I was upset and I didn’t use the word ‘evil’. Instead, it was an F-bomb. And she laughed and laughed.
Fractured is all about consequences and Ruby has a boatload to face when she gets back. Although, I found myself reminding the characters (out loud, mind you!) that it was SCARLET in the driver’s seat when the event in Scarred went down. I am happy to report that it becomes clear pretty quick that they understand that but it also shows how hard it can sometimes be to remember that although Scarlet and Ruby share a body, they are two very difference personalities. They may inhabit the same building but they are definitely two different souls. To the people on the outside (or in the warpath, as the case may be), it’s just one face so they have to remember to keep that distinction fresh in their mind.
Let’s take a look at the characters.
RUBY
Oh Ruby, you poor, poor thing. I just want to give her a hug. And sometimes, I want to give her a pat on the head….with a hammer. The Ruby we are presented with in Fractured is a MUCH different girl than we met 4 books ago in Caged. She’s been through a lot so far and the shit storms just keep coming. My only wish is that she’d lose the naïve streak she has sometimes. By this point, I feel like she should have a thicker skin and a harder frame of mind. HOWEVER…. At the same time, we as readers need to remember that not a lot of time has passed in Ruby’s world since Caged first began and Ruby has barely had any time to breathe between each crisis she faces. I don’t know how she doesn’t have a rockin’ case of PTSD by now.
SEAN
Mmmmm, Sean. Sean has become one of my favorites and I have a little case of Stockholm Syndrome with him. He can act like a complete and total dick and in my head, I’m all “he just needs love. I can change him!” And then, yet again, I have to remind myself that he is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER. Sigh…. I feel like Sean’s mean streak cleans up a bit in Fractured. Now that there is a clear, defined relationship between him and Ruby, he still has a slightly infuriating Man of Mystery thing going on. He wouldn’t be a good urban fantasy alpha male type if he didn’t though.
COOPER
I started getting a little snippy with Coop over the last could of books because the dynamic between him and Ruby was so weird. It felt like a constant “will they or wont they” struggle. Fractured brought some real definition to what they mean to each other. I think it clears up any confusion and gets rid of the love triangle feel that the books were starting to have a touch of. He still doesn’t really like Sean but at least they now have something in common rather than competition – Ruby.
PEYTA
Ugh…. Peyta. Sigh. What the hell are we going to do with you? There’s a BIG secret revealed about Peyta in Fractured and to be honest, I didn’t really like it. The storyline is good but felt a little too real-worldy for the Caged series. I voiced this opinion to ALN via instant message while I was in the middle of reading the book and she assured me that the Peyta thing leads to a bigger conversation that needed to be had later on in the book. Fear not, reader! ALN was right. Although the Peyta secret doesn’t feel organic for the book at first, it DOES open up a can of worms later on in a great dialog session. In regards to the secret, I am not even going to hint at what it is. I am just going to say you’ll know it when you see it. There is no missing that shit!
Fractured also brings the arrival of some newcomers to the storyline and I really like them! They’re a good addition. A little sketchy, but good.
Oh!!! And I want to punch Gavin right in his suck hole. He’s a douche and he pisses me off. He may be there to “help” Rubes but I still want to make him feel pain. Every conversation they have causes me to go into a blind rage. He’s the king of dancing around answers and it just pisses me off to no end. I was seriously ready to blow a gasket over him by the end of Fractured.
I am giving Fractured 5 solid gold stars. After the events of Scarred, I didn’t see how this storyline could possibly get any better but I loved Fractured! While reading, someone asked me which was my favorite out of the series and I can honestly say that I can’t pick now. I love each one for much different reasons. Fractured was an awesome addition to the line up!
Ah yes! Amber Lynn Natusch is an evil bitch. Plain and simple.
Now, before all of you out there in the Caged fandom come at me, let me also state that I told her this to her FACE. Ok, that’s a lie. But I did tell her in an instant message with tears streaming down my cheeks.
Scarred was a painful book to read. There is an event at the end of that book that will rip your heart out, stomp on it with football cleats and doesn’t even have the decency to put it back for you. It is PAINFUL. I think part of me even held a little resentment toward ALN for making me go through that awful experience with characters I love.
Ugh!! And then what happens AFTER the horrible event!!! That’s just as bad.
Well, once Scarred was behind me, I thought I was past the pain and could move on with my life…err, the story! Move on with the STORY. *shifty eyes*
Not. So. Much.
Yeah, remember that heart left stomped on the pavement??? ALN is back and in Fractured, she pulls it BACK OUT and pours salt on your wounds.
The horrible event I speak of gets brought back up in a very RAW way. The story line proceeds from when Ruby returns and everything is going along, smooth like butta’! Then BAM!!! Sadface.
You know what happens after people die?? That’s right. You have a funeral to attend.
Oh my GAWD I cried like a big bitch! And I was too heartbroken to be ashamed. And that resulted in an instant message to the author stating “you’re an evil bitch”. Except at the time, I was upset and I didn’t use the word ‘evil’. Instead, it was an F-bomb. And she laughed and laughed.
Fractured is all about consequences and Ruby has a boatload to face when she gets back. Although, I found myself reminding the characters (out loud, mind you!) that it was SCARLET in the driver’s seat when the event in Scarred went down. I am happy to report that it becomes clear pretty quick that they understand that but it also shows how hard it can sometimes be to remember that although Scarlet and Ruby share a body, they are two very difference personalities. They may inhabit the same building but they are definitely two different souls. To the people on the outside (or in the warpath, as the case may be), it’s just one face so they have to remember to keep that distinction fresh in their mind.
Let’s take a look at the characters.
RUBY
Oh Ruby, you poor, poor thing. I just want to give her a hug. And sometimes, I want to give her a pat on the head….with a hammer. The Ruby we are presented with in Fractured is a MUCH different girl than we met 4 books ago in Caged. She’s been through a lot so far and the shit storms just keep coming. My only wish is that she’d lose the naïve streak she has sometimes. By this point, I feel like she should have a thicker skin and a harder frame of mind. HOWEVER…. At the same time, we as readers need to remember that not a lot of time has passed in Ruby’s world since Caged first began and Ruby has barely had any time to breathe between each crisis she faces. I don’t know how she doesn’t have a rockin’ case of PTSD by now.
SEAN
Mmmmm, Sean. Sean has become one of my favorites and I have a little case of Stockholm Syndrome with him. He can act like a complete and total dick and in my head, I’m all “he just needs love. I can change him!” And then, yet again, I have to remind myself that he is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER. Sigh…. I feel like Sean’s mean streak cleans up a bit in Fractured. Now that there is a clear, defined relationship between him and Ruby, he still has a slightly infuriating Man of Mystery thing going on. He wouldn’t be a good urban fantasy alpha male type if he didn’t though.
COOPER
I started getting a little snippy with Coop over the last could of books because the dynamic between him and Ruby was so weird. It felt like a constant “will they or wont they” struggle. Fractured brought some real definition to what they mean to each other. I think it clears up any confusion and gets rid of the love triangle feel that the books were starting to have a touch of. He still doesn’t really like Sean but at least they now have something in common rather than competition – Ruby.
PEYTA
Ugh…. Peyta. Sigh. What the hell are we going to do with you? There’s a BIG secret revealed about Peyta in Fractured and to be honest, I didn’t really like it. The storyline is good but felt a little too real-worldy for the Caged series. I voiced this opinion to ALN via instant message while I was in the middle of reading the book and she assured me that the Peyta thing leads to a bigger conversation that needed to be had later on in the book. Fear not, reader! ALN was right. Although the Peyta secret doesn’t feel organic for the book at first, it DOES open up a can of worms later on in a great dialog session. In regards to the secret, I am not even going to hint at what it is. I am just going to say you’ll know it when you see it. There is no missing that shit!
Fractured also brings the arrival of some newcomers to the storyline and I really like them! They’re a good addition. A little sketchy, but good.
Oh!!! And I want to punch Gavin right in his suck hole. He’s a douche and he pisses me off. He may be there to “help” Rubes but I still want to make him feel pain. Every conversation they have causes me to go into a blind rage. He’s the king of dancing around answers and it just pisses me off to no end. I was seriously ready to blow a gasket over him by the end of Fractured.
I am giving Fractured 5 solid gold stars. After the events of Scarred, I didn’t see how this storyline could possibly get any better but I loved Fractured! While reading, someone asked me which was my favorite out of the series and I can honestly say that I can’t pick now. I love each one for much different reasons. Fractured was an awesome addition to the line up!
March 6, 2013
the Caged series by Amber Lynn Natusch is a rare gem in a sea of books. I find myself totally attached to these characters and find them popping up in my mind at random times, like I am trying to remember how an old friend is doing.
"Light eventually falls on even the darkest of corners"
Fractured is the 5th book in the Caged series and Natusch weaves a complex story which asks more questions than answers, but also deals with some of the other issues in this book. Now I have always had a soft spot for Cooper and in the last book I was wanting for him to find his Happily Ever After. I felt in this book some of those things start to fall into place, we get to see more of the overall purpose of Cooper and I loved the direction it was taken.
Then of course there is the combo of Sean and Cooper. In general, I really do not like overprotective male characters. But Sean and Cooper are perfect in their protective nature, and it makes sense why they each have their own reasons for their actions. Plus it is pretty funny, the pissing matches they get into. I mean Ruby has the uncanny ability to find trouble, or well trouble finds her.
"...Ruby I was gone for half and hour. How much shit did you manage to stir up in thirty minutes? I gave him a sheepish look that told him everything he needed to know. Knowing my gifts, he scowled in return. "Worst case scenario?" he asked, leading the way down to the car"
Ruby and Sean, it seems, to be somewhat on the same page and even looks like things might work out. Well of course with some advice from a character I have no trust in, it is really hard to say but I have a feeling that the next book some pretty big secrets are going to unveiled and things are going to get messy. It makes sense with the setting up of trust and strength between Ruby and Sean and that this newly appointed trust will be greatly tested.
"Every pass drew the lightest hint of sorrow from him, his foreign words coming more frequently- a confession, a purging of remorse for a loss he couldn't quite understand"
I could go on and on with this book, which I hope to do in the comments, but the final say is that if you havent heard or read the Caged series, take a chance on this gem of a series. You want the characters to be your best friends, you feel for Ruby and the heartache that follows her. You find yourself in awe of the complex story that is woven, the situations that arise, and what is hiding around the corner.....
Check out the review and more at my blog
http://caitontheroad.blogspot.com
"Light eventually falls on even the darkest of corners"
Fractured is the 5th book in the Caged series and Natusch weaves a complex story which asks more questions than answers, but also deals with some of the other issues in this book. Now I have always had a soft spot for Cooper and in the last book I was wanting for him to find his Happily Ever After. I felt in this book some of those things start to fall into place, we get to see more of the overall purpose of Cooper and I loved the direction it was taken.
Then of course there is the combo of Sean and Cooper. In general, I really do not like overprotective male characters. But Sean and Cooper are perfect in their protective nature, and it makes sense why they each have their own reasons for their actions. Plus it is pretty funny, the pissing matches they get into. I mean Ruby has the uncanny ability to find trouble, or well trouble finds her.
"...Ruby I was gone for half and hour. How much shit did you manage to stir up in thirty minutes? I gave him a sheepish look that told him everything he needed to know. Knowing my gifts, he scowled in return. "Worst case scenario?" he asked, leading the way down to the car"
Ruby and Sean, it seems, to be somewhat on the same page and even looks like things might work out. Well of course with some advice from a character I have no trust in, it is really hard to say but I have a feeling that the next book some pretty big secrets are going to unveiled and things are going to get messy. It makes sense with the setting up of trust and strength between Ruby and Sean and that this newly appointed trust will be greatly tested.
"Every pass drew the lightest hint of sorrow from him, his foreign words coming more frequently- a confession, a purging of remorse for a loss he couldn't quite understand"
I could go on and on with this book, which I hope to do in the comments, but the final say is that if you havent heard or read the Caged series, take a chance on this gem of a series. You want the characters to be your best friends, you feel for Ruby and the heartache that follows her. You find yourself in awe of the complex story that is woven, the situations that arise, and what is hiding around the corner.....
Check out the review and more at my blog
http://caitontheroad.blogspot.com
March 10, 2013
What can I say. Let the love fest begin!!! Love the story, loved the relationships. Loved the unexpected revelations.
Cooper - an alpha and ruby's of all people. Loved it
Ruby - being honest to her enter circle and less scatty. Her enter strength and loyalty tested. Loved it.
Scarlett - gone, will to live gone, leaving ruby to be vulnerable. (I was ok until rubes vision going. Michelle/book buddy on the other hand was not happy about Scarlett's hiatus. She's a fan.) her return. Loved it.
Look forward to her/Ruby connecting making them a force to be reckoned with. When provoked of course. Smile
SHUN -possessive and strong with one weakness RUBY (sight, batting my eyes). Gotta love him, oops Loved it.
Can't wait to learn more about my man and to see how deep is his love. (shout out to next book from his p.o.v.)
As for Alice,Jane & Becky (SMH, LOL) the new pack members. Coop's terms of endearment (read the book for real names) loved the plot, the mystery that's surrounded them and the "what tha" moment that had me about to cry OK OK OK. I cried happy now.
Don't think I revealed everything and everyone in the book I did not. I don't like to tell people about the book I want you to read it for yourself. Look out for Gavin he is up to something and I think he is related to ruby. Come on amber you can tell me. Am i right Lol.
Anyway, read the book, read the series and wait on baited breathe like the rest of us as we brace ourselves for another book release.
Cooper - an alpha and ruby's of all people. Loved it
Ruby - being honest to her enter circle and less scatty. Her enter strength and loyalty tested. Loved it.
Scarlett - gone, will to live gone, leaving ruby to be vulnerable. (I was ok until rubes vision going. Michelle/book buddy on the other hand was not happy about Scarlett's hiatus. She's a fan.) her return. Loved it.
Look forward to her/Ruby connecting making them a force to be reckoned with. When provoked of course. Smile
SHUN -possessive and strong with one weakness RUBY (sight, batting my eyes). Gotta love him, oops Loved it.
Can't wait to learn more about my man and to see how deep is his love. (shout out to next book from his p.o.v.)
As for Alice,Jane & Becky (SMH, LOL) the new pack members. Coop's terms of endearment (read the book for real names) loved the plot, the mystery that's surrounded them and the "what tha" moment that had me about to cry OK OK OK. I cried happy now.
Don't think I revealed everything and everyone in the book I did not. I don't like to tell people about the book I want you to read it for yourself. Look out for Gavin he is up to something and I think he is related to ruby. Come on amber you can tell me. Am i right Lol.
Anyway, read the book, read the series and wait on baited breathe like the rest of us as we brace ourselves for another book release.
July 30, 2014
While I love this series, I do think this is my least favorite book in it so far. I feel like most of the book I was waiting to hear answers to questions that never ended up being addressed in this book. The big omg moment of the book was also a little anticlimactic and short lived considering how long the book is. I still love Ruby and the gang though <3
February 1, 2014
The women are starting to become Bellas, caught up in weak and whiny self-absorption. Disappointing.
April 11, 2018
Oh, where do I even begin?
Ah yes! Amber Lynn Natusch is an evil bitch. Plain and simple.
Now, before all of you out there in the Caged fandom come at me, let me also state that I told her this to her FACE. Ok, that’s a lie. But I did tell her in an instant message with tears streaming down my cheeks.
Scarred was a painful book to read. There is an event at the end of that book that will rip your heart out, stomp on it with football cleats and doesn’t even have the decency to put it back for you. It is PAINFUL. I think part of me even held a little resentment toward ALN for making me go through that awful experience with characters I love.
Ugh!! And then what happens AFTER the horrible event!!! That’s just as bad.
Well, once Scarred was behind me, I thought I was past the pain and could move on with my life…err, the story! Move on with the STORY. *shifty eyes*
Not. So. Much.
Yeah, remember that heart left stomped on the pavement??? ALN is back and in Fractured, she pulls it BACK OUT and pours salt on your wounds.
The horrible event I speak of gets brought back up in a very RAW way. The story line proceeds from when Ruby returns and everything is going along, smooth like butta’! Then BAM!!! Sadface.
You know what happens after people die?? That’s right. You have a funeral to attend.
Oh my GAWD I cried like a big bitch! And I was too heartbroken to be ashamed. And that resulted in an instant message to the author stating “you’re an evil bitch”. Except at the time, I was upset and I didn’t use the word ‘evil’. Instead, it was an F-bomb. And she laughed and laughed.
Fractured is all about consequences and Ruby has a boatload to face when she gets back. Although, I found myself reminding the characters (out loud, mind you!) that it was SCARLET in the driver’s seat when the event in Scarred went down. I am happy to report that it becomes clear pretty quick that they understand that but it also shows how hard it can sometimes be to remember that although Scarlet and Ruby share a body, they are two very difference personalities. They may inhabit the same building but they are definitely two different souls. To the people on the outside (or in the warpath, as the case may be), it’s just one face so they have to remember to keep that distinction fresh in their mind.
Let’s take a look at the characters.
RUBY
Oh Ruby, you poor, poor thing. I just want to give her a hug. And sometimes, I want to give her a pat on the head….with a hammer. The Ruby we are presented with in Fractured is a MUCH different girl than we met 4 books ago in Caged. She’s been through a lot so far and the shit storms just keep coming. My only wish is that she’d lose the naïve streak she has sometimes. By this point, I feel like she should have a thicker skin and a harder frame of mind. HOWEVER…. At the same time, we as readers need to remember that not a lot of time has passed in Ruby’s world since Caged first began and Ruby has barely had any time to breathe between each crisis she faces. I don’t know how she doesn’t have a rockin’ case of PTSD by now.
SEAN
Mmmmm, Sean. Sean has become one of my favorites and I have a little case of Stockholm Syndrome with him. He can act like a complete and total dick and in my head, I’m all “he just needs love. I can change him!” And then, yet again, I have to remind myself that he is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER. Sigh…. I feel like Sean’s mean streak cleans up a bit in Fractured. Now that there is a clear, defined relationship between him and Ruby, he still has a slightly infuriating Man of Mystery thing going on. He wouldn’t be a good urban fantasy alpha male type if he didn’t though.
COOPER
I started getting a little snippy with Coop over the last could of books because the dynamic between him and Ruby was so weird. It felt like a constant “will they or wont they” struggle. Fractured brought some real definition to what they mean to each other. I think it clears up any confusion and gets rid of the love triangle feel that the books were starting to have a touch of. He still doesn’t really like Sean but at least they now have something in common rather than competition – Ruby.
PEYTA
Ugh…. Peyta. Sigh. What the hell are we going to do with you? There’s a BIG secret revealed about Peyta in Fractured and to be honest, I didn’t really like it. The storyline is good but felt a little too real-worldy for the Caged series. I voiced this opinion to ALN via instant message while I was in the middle of reading the book and she assured me that the Peyta thing leads to a bigger conversation that needed to be had later on in the book. Fear not, reader! ALN was right. Although the Peyta secret doesn’t feel organic for the book at first, it DOES open up a can of worms later on in a great dialog session. In regards to the secret, I am not even going to hint at what it is. I am just going to say you’ll know it when you see it. There is no missing that shit!
Fractured also brings the arrival of some newcomers to the storyline and I really like them! They’re a good addition. A little sketchy, but good.
Oh!!! And I want to punch Gavin right in his suck hole. He’s a douche and he pisses me off. He may be there to “help” Rubes but I still want to make him feel pain. Every conversation they have causes me to go into a blind rage. He’s the king of dancing around answers and it just pisses me off to no end. I was seriously ready to blow a gasket over him by the end of Fractured.
I am giving Fractured 5 solid gold stars. After the events of Scarred, I didn’t see how this storyline could possibly get any better but I loved Fractured! While reading, someone asked me which was my favorite out of the series and I can honestly say that I can’t pick now. I love each one for much different reasons. Fractured was an awesome addition to the line up!
Ah yes! Amber Lynn Natusch is an evil bitch. Plain and simple.
Now, before all of you out there in the Caged fandom come at me, let me also state that I told her this to her FACE. Ok, that’s a lie. But I did tell her in an instant message with tears streaming down my cheeks.
Scarred was a painful book to read. There is an event at the end of that book that will rip your heart out, stomp on it with football cleats and doesn’t even have the decency to put it back for you. It is PAINFUL. I think part of me even held a little resentment toward ALN for making me go through that awful experience with characters I love.
Ugh!! And then what happens AFTER the horrible event!!! That’s just as bad.
Well, once Scarred was behind me, I thought I was past the pain and could move on with my life…err, the story! Move on with the STORY. *shifty eyes*
Not. So. Much.
Yeah, remember that heart left stomped on the pavement??? ALN is back and in Fractured, she pulls it BACK OUT and pours salt on your wounds.
The horrible event I speak of gets brought back up in a very RAW way. The story line proceeds from when Ruby returns and everything is going along, smooth like butta’! Then BAM!!! Sadface.
You know what happens after people die?? That’s right. You have a funeral to attend.
Oh my GAWD I cried like a big bitch! And I was too heartbroken to be ashamed. And that resulted in an instant message to the author stating “you’re an evil bitch”. Except at the time, I was upset and I didn’t use the word ‘evil’. Instead, it was an F-bomb. And she laughed and laughed.
Fractured is all about consequences and Ruby has a boatload to face when she gets back. Although, I found myself reminding the characters (out loud, mind you!) that it was SCARLET in the driver’s seat when the event in Scarred went down. I am happy to report that it becomes clear pretty quick that they understand that but it also shows how hard it can sometimes be to remember that although Scarlet and Ruby share a body, they are two very difference personalities. They may inhabit the same building but they are definitely two different souls. To the people on the outside (or in the warpath, as the case may be), it’s just one face so they have to remember to keep that distinction fresh in their mind.
Let’s take a look at the characters.
RUBY
Oh Ruby, you poor, poor thing. I just want to give her a hug. And sometimes, I want to give her a pat on the head….with a hammer. The Ruby we are presented with in Fractured is a MUCH different girl than we met 4 books ago in Caged. She’s been through a lot so far and the shit storms just keep coming. My only wish is that she’d lose the naïve streak she has sometimes. By this point, I feel like she should have a thicker skin and a harder frame of mind. HOWEVER…. At the same time, we as readers need to remember that not a lot of time has passed in Ruby’s world since Caged first began and Ruby has barely had any time to breathe between each crisis she faces. I don’t know how she doesn’t have a rockin’ case of PTSD by now.
SEAN
Mmmmm, Sean. Sean has become one of my favorites and I have a little case of Stockholm Syndrome with him. He can act like a complete and total dick and in my head, I’m all “he just needs love. I can change him!” And then, yet again, I have to remind myself that he is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER. Sigh…. I feel like Sean’s mean streak cleans up a bit in Fractured. Now that there is a clear, defined relationship between him and Ruby, he still has a slightly infuriating Man of Mystery thing going on. He wouldn’t be a good urban fantasy alpha male type if he didn’t though.
COOPER
I started getting a little snippy with Coop over the last could of books because the dynamic between him and Ruby was so weird. It felt like a constant “will they or wont they” struggle. Fractured brought some real definition to what they mean to each other. I think it clears up any confusion and gets rid of the love triangle feel that the books were starting to have a touch of. He still doesn’t really like Sean but at least they now have something in common rather than competition – Ruby.
PEYTA
Ugh…. Peyta. Sigh. What the hell are we going to do with you? There’s a BIG secret revealed about Peyta in Fractured and to be honest, I didn’t really like it. The storyline is good but felt a little too real-worldy for the Caged series. I voiced this opinion to ALN via instant message while I was in the middle of reading the book and she assured me that the Peyta thing leads to a bigger conversation that needed to be had later on in the book. Fear not, reader! ALN was right. Although the Peyta secret doesn’t feel organic for the book at first, it DOES open up a can of worms later on in a great dialog session. In regards to the secret, I am not even going to hint at what it is. I am just going to say you’ll know it when you see it. There is no missing that shit!
Fractured also brings the arrival of some newcomers to the storyline and I really like them! They’re a good addition. A little sketchy, but good.
Oh!!! And I want to punch Gavin right in his suck hole. He’s a douche and he pisses me off. He may be there to “help” Rubes but I still want to make him feel pain. Every conversation they have causes me to go into a blind rage. He’s the king of dancing around answers and it just pisses me off to no end. I was seriously ready to blow a gasket over him by the end of Fractured.
I am giving Fractured 5 solid gold stars. After the events of Scarred, I didn’t see how this storyline could possibly get any better but I loved Fractured! While reading, someone asked me which was my favorite out of the series and I can honestly say that I can’t pick now. I love each one for much different reasons. Fractured was an awesome addition to the line up!
December 14, 2017
Another excellent read!
Amber Lynn Natusch has made another amazing read with this one. I had just as hard a Time putting this one down as I did the last four. And I can't wait to read the next one.
I have read a lot of books and a lot of authors but Natusch is the absolute best at keeping me guessing. You never know what's going to happen next. Her characters have such depth and their actions are very realistically based. The events that take place in her books are interesting and something that you would never guess every time. I love that it's not the same old story told with different names.
The books in the series can stand alone but they're so much better if you read them all in order. And I can't wait to start the next one already, in fact I'm going to go do that now!...
Amber Lynn Natusch has made another amazing read with this one. I had just as hard a Time putting this one down as I did the last four. And I can't wait to read the next one.
I have read a lot of books and a lot of authors but Natusch is the absolute best at keeping me guessing. You never know what's going to happen next. Her characters have such depth and their actions are very realistically based. The events that take place in her books are interesting and something that you would never guess every time. I love that it's not the same old story told with different names.
The books in the series can stand alone but they're so much better if you read them all in order. And I can't wait to start the next one already, in fact I'm going to go do that now!...
October 13, 2017
This series becomes more intriguing and complicated with every book. The author has put a ton of time into the story telling,plot, back story and building of each and every character it's impressive. I absolutely have to read the next one. I'm completely dragged into this world and I couldn't be happier to be in it!.
November 2, 2017
What a thrilling ride!
This series just keeps getting better and better with each book. So many different things at play all going on at the same time. The danger and action is non stop and some questions are answered, but you definitely don't expect the answers or anything that happens. This was a great read and I'm off to read the next one!
This series just keeps getting better and better with each book. So many different things at play all going on at the same time. The danger and action is non stop and some questions are answered, but you definitely don't expect the answers or anything that happens. This was a great read and I'm off to read the next one!
March 12, 2013
I just finished Fractured and I have to say, Amber did NOT disappoint! I absolutely LOVE this series, and this was ALMOST a five star book for me. There were only a few minor issues that prevented me from clicking 5 stars. I won't give away any spoilers, but if you haven't read the Caged series, you definitely need to go back to the beginning and read books 1-4 before you even think about Fractured. Even I had to go back and reread the ending of Scarred in order to fully follow what was going on in this text.
Let me start off with the good: Amber Lynn Natusch is, hands down, one of the BEST authors at giving her characters "voice" that I have ever read. I can hear the characters speaking, and I believe their personalities, quirks, and hang-ups. Fractured is no exception to this talent. One of my author pet peeves is when a writer tries to throw too many characters into the mix and doesn't fully develop them. Amber does not have this problem--she expertly develops not only her heroine, but also the supporting characters that surround our leading lady. The Brit boys that show up in this title had me literally laughing out loud...my husband elbowed me at least 3 times as I kept laughing when he was trying to fall asleep! Bravo to Amber for successfully bringing us three new characters to enjoy (and the great surprises they bring! eeek!)
Another element of this book that is both surprising and welcome are the steamy scenes that unfold. Without giving too much away, Amber proves that she can not only give us action-packed drama, snarky sarcasm, fratastic boy's nights, and everything in between, but she can also rock it between the sheets in a way that is totally classy, in character, and not even an ounce of sleaze. Given many of the books that have gained popularity of late (not that I would EVER read those smut-filled abominations, *cough cough* *wink wink*) it is refreshing to see an author that can handle some steam without making the reader feel like they are doing something “forbidden” by reading the text. Amber definitely stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park with this one. (I apologize for the baseball metaphor, but opening day is fast approaching, so I had to go there…)
There are many other accolades I could give this book—the same that I would give Amber for the entire series. The plot line is never dull. The characters feel real. The relationships are flawed and perfect at the same time. Overall, Amber really just makes her audience feel like we want to be friends with her characters. Even in the midst of life threatening situations, Ruby can still laugh at the absurdity of situations, Cooper can still crack jokes about his irresistible good looks, and beer chugging contests, even IF they are paired with watching soccer (ugh…soccer!?) do not seem in the least bit out of place.
With all of this being said, there begs the questions “Why 4 stars and not 5?” Had I never read any of Amber’s books before, I would have probably given this 5 stars without hesitation, but because I’ve read the whole series (and most of the books twice!) I was left with a slightly empty feeling that the other books did not warrant. I felt like this book served more as a bridge between Scarred and the upcoming Strayed. Ruby wasn’t nearly as in on the action as she had been in the other books, and since we’re dealing with first person narration, that means we were also left out of much of it. The issues with Scarlet also left me feeling like I was missing a major part of our heroine. The curveball that is thrown to us toward the end seemed a little bit out of left field (ahh baseball again!!!) and I didn’t feel like I was given enough time to prepare for or reflect on that, so I’m finding it hard to put too much stock in it. I’m sure that our author will develop it much more in the next book, but it just seemed a little too sudden for where we are right now, thus losing some of the intrigue for me.
While the other books have all left me a little frustrated because I want to read the next one NOW, this book seemed to have been wrapped in a bow that was just a little bit too pretty. Not to say that I won’t download the next book as soon as it is published (when will that be Amber!?) but I was able to sleep just fine last night after finishing Fractured. Usually, I’m left envisioning the characters, building what I think might happen next, and dreaming of a way I could join in the story world. The best and worst part of finishing a great book is when I feel a little sad because the characters I’ve been friends with for the last hours or days are no longer moving forward (I do have real life friend too, I promise…), but I just didn’t quite get that with Fractured. There are plenty of loose ends still to be tied, but the urgency to tie them just isn’t quite there. But, to Amber’s credit, even with some of the elements that seemed to be missing, her ability to build characters, relationships, and to make her audience actually care about what happens to ALL of the characters, not just the protagonist, prove her talent in spades. If you haven’t already, read the entire series, and anxiously await the release of the next book with the rest of us!
Let me start off with the good: Amber Lynn Natusch is, hands down, one of the BEST authors at giving her characters "voice" that I have ever read. I can hear the characters speaking, and I believe their personalities, quirks, and hang-ups. Fractured is no exception to this talent. One of my author pet peeves is when a writer tries to throw too many characters into the mix and doesn't fully develop them. Amber does not have this problem--she expertly develops not only her heroine, but also the supporting characters that surround our leading lady. The Brit boys that show up in this title had me literally laughing out loud...my husband elbowed me at least 3 times as I kept laughing when he was trying to fall asleep! Bravo to Amber for successfully bringing us three new characters to enjoy (and the great surprises they bring! eeek!)
Another element of this book that is both surprising and welcome are the steamy scenes that unfold. Without giving too much away, Amber proves that she can not only give us action-packed drama, snarky sarcasm, fratastic boy's nights, and everything in between, but she can also rock it between the sheets in a way that is totally classy, in character, and not even an ounce of sleaze. Given many of the books that have gained popularity of late (not that I would EVER read those smut-filled abominations, *cough cough* *wink wink*) it is refreshing to see an author that can handle some steam without making the reader feel like they are doing something “forbidden” by reading the text. Amber definitely stepped up to the plate and knocked it out of the park with this one. (I apologize for the baseball metaphor, but opening day is fast approaching, so I had to go there…)
There are many other accolades I could give this book—the same that I would give Amber for the entire series. The plot line is never dull. The characters feel real. The relationships are flawed and perfect at the same time. Overall, Amber really just makes her audience feel like we want to be friends with her characters. Even in the midst of life threatening situations, Ruby can still laugh at the absurdity of situations, Cooper can still crack jokes about his irresistible good looks, and beer chugging contests, even IF they are paired with watching soccer (ugh…soccer!?) do not seem in the least bit out of place.
With all of this being said, there begs the questions “Why 4 stars and not 5?” Had I never read any of Amber’s books before, I would have probably given this 5 stars without hesitation, but because I’ve read the whole series (and most of the books twice!) I was left with a slightly empty feeling that the other books did not warrant. I felt like this book served more as a bridge between Scarred and the upcoming Strayed. Ruby wasn’t nearly as in on the action as she had been in the other books, and since we’re dealing with first person narration, that means we were also left out of much of it. The issues with Scarlet also left me feeling like I was missing a major part of our heroine. The curveball that is thrown to us toward the end seemed a little bit out of left field (ahh baseball again!!!) and I didn’t feel like I was given enough time to prepare for or reflect on that, so I’m finding it hard to put too much stock in it. I’m sure that our author will develop it much more in the next book, but it just seemed a little too sudden for where we are right now, thus losing some of the intrigue for me.
While the other books have all left me a little frustrated because I want to read the next one NOW, this book seemed to have been wrapped in a bow that was just a little bit too pretty. Not to say that I won’t download the next book as soon as it is published (when will that be Amber!?) but I was able to sleep just fine last night after finishing Fractured. Usually, I’m left envisioning the characters, building what I think might happen next, and dreaming of a way I could join in the story world. The best and worst part of finishing a great book is when I feel a little sad because the characters I’ve been friends with for the last hours or days are no longer moving forward (I do have real life friend too, I promise…), but I just didn’t quite get that with Fractured. There are plenty of loose ends still to be tied, but the urgency to tie them just isn’t quite there. But, to Amber’s credit, even with some of the elements that seemed to be missing, her ability to build characters, relationships, and to make her audience actually care about what happens to ALL of the characters, not just the protagonist, prove her talent in spades. If you haven’t already, read the entire series, and anxiously await the release of the next book with the rest of us!
March 27, 2025
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Urban Fantasy, Enemies to Lovers, Fated Mates, Werewolves, Chosen Family, Greek Mythology
𝗣𝗢𝗩: FMC
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Ebook
The Caged world will forever be one of my absolute favorite worlds, and I decided that a full reread was in order. I may not have started this world from the true beginning, but the whole world is absolutely epic.
Ruby is finally back from being trapped in her own mind by Scarlett, but she has absolutely no clue what happened while she was gone & Scarlett is not exactly helpful right now.
Not only are the two men in her life royally mad at her, but now she has 3 new strays who have showed up looking for refuge. But just like everything else in Ruby’s life, the Cluster Fucks are very much present and shit is going to hit the fan…. Again….
𝗣𝗢𝗩: FMC
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Ebook
The Caged world will forever be one of my absolute favorite worlds, and I decided that a full reread was in order. I may not have started this world from the true beginning, but the whole world is absolutely epic.
Ruby is finally back from being trapped in her own mind by Scarlett, but she has absolutely no clue what happened while she was gone & Scarlett is not exactly helpful right now.
Not only are the two men in her life royally mad at her, but now she has 3 new strays who have showed up looking for refuge. But just like everything else in Ruby’s life, the Cluster Fucks are very much present and shit is going to hit the fan…. Again….
April 26, 2013
Full Review on The Book Cafe
I cannot stress to you enough how obsessed I am with this frigging series!! I'll be the first to admit that the Werewolf genre can get old, tired and completely overdone. But, nope not this one. Not even close. It's so completely different from the other ones out there and once it gets it's hooks into you IT DOESN'T LET GO. Trust me. 5 books in and I'm still finishing each book in a day's time and then salivating for the next one. Seriously, if I've not coerced you into anything yet with my rantings and ravings, let this one be the one that gets you! The first book Caged is $0.99 on Amazon right now.
Now, if you haven't read the first (and want to) and don't really feel like having things spoiled for you, please don't keep reading. It's book 5 in this series so I won't be able to shield you from too much!!
Ok, onwards.
The end of Scarred and the prologue of Fractured GUTTED me. It had me in tears and left me heartbroken. Oh and the effing Goodreads blurb yup, pretty painful.
So needless to say I went into this knowing I was going to need a box of Kleenex and possibly a shot of tequila. It didn't help that the author and her fellow author/friend Shannon Morton actually told me I was going to ugly cry at one point in this. After stressing they NEVER cry at books. Fair warning and all that I suppose.
This book picks up about 3 weeks after the end of Scarred. 3 weeks after Sean and Jay's attack. 3 weeks after Matty's death and Scarlet's subsequent emotional breakdown and disappearance. Ruby regains consciousness in the middle of the woods, the last 3 weeks being a complete and total black hole to her with no recollection of how she got there. With the help of three seemingly random werewolves she is taken in, cleaned, fed and taken care of until she can make it back home to New Hampshire. Once there she has no idea what to expect from any of the people she cares about. She first runs into Connor. Can I just segue here and say I love Connor. I've always loved him, even thru his dark period and he doesn't disappoint me here in this book. Ok, back to what I was saying. Her meetings with Connor, Peyta, Alan and finally Sean are harsh. There are definite repercussions to her disappearance that she has to deal with that she would've never thought possible. From all ends. Not to mention she has to deal with Matty's death. The Rev turned him into a crazy wolf, but Ruby remembers and loves him for the man he was before he changed. Her friend, her dance partner, a man who held a part of her heart. It was tough to watch her try and figure out her feelings. 3 weeks may have passed in reality, but to Ruby it was only days ago.
And then there's Scarlet. She has been pretty much non-existent since she released Ruby from her mental cell in the woods. No one can coax her out, Ruby doesn't hear her, doesn't feel any stirrings of her whatsoever. Which leaves Ruby disturbingly vulnerable. Especially when the three werewolves who found and helped her come knocking at her door asking for her and Connor's help and protection. Which, if you know Connor, you can probably guess how that went over. Not well. At all. The three werewolves- escapees from a pretty dangerous pack in the UK- are desperate. Janner, Alistair and Beckett have committed some fouls, lost people they loved and were given the chance to escape, so they run to the one person they believe can protect them the best, the RB.
Enter Sean. Ruby had seen him briefly at Matty's funeral but was in no mental state to talk to him. She was petrified he hated her and blamed her and couldn't deal with another loss on the day they buried Matty. But she couldn't avoid him when he walks into her apartment moments after the rogue werewolves do, demanding explanations and declaring himself as her mate. After some heated discussions and heartfelt admissions he and Ruby are finally back on track. As much as I love Connor, I know that Sean is who Ruby is supposed to be with. He has a monster inside of him that needs to be tamed, just as Ruby does (although not as literally). Ruby balances him and Sean gives her the unconditionally love that she never received when she was younger. He understands and accepts her and all of her screw-ups and never-ending penchant for finding and getting into trouble.
So you have an overprotective Connor (which you find out why exactly that is the case), a relatively damaged Peyta, a Sean that you want to hug and hogtie down so he doesn't change personalities again, an absurdly (and somewhat creepy in that state) happy Ronnie, the three stooges of werewolves, a psycho alpha, a heartbreaking presence that I can't really tell you about, oh and Gavin the man of talking in riddles and planting seeds of distrust. One additional bit of awesomeness- you have the new dynamic of the three werewolves adding to the smart assed hilarity that is Connor and Ruby.
I loved this book. Even as vague as I am being about it, I just want you to go and read it and then tell me what you think. I need to share in this book with you people!!
I cannot stress to you enough how obsessed I am with this frigging series!! I'll be the first to admit that the Werewolf genre can get old, tired and completely overdone. But, nope not this one. Not even close. It's so completely different from the other ones out there and once it gets it's hooks into you IT DOESN'T LET GO. Trust me. 5 books in and I'm still finishing each book in a day's time and then salivating for the next one. Seriously, if I've not coerced you into anything yet with my rantings and ravings, let this one be the one that gets you! The first book Caged is $0.99 on Amazon right now.
Now, if you haven't read the first (and want to) and don't really feel like having things spoiled for you, please don't keep reading. It's book 5 in this series so I won't be able to shield you from too much!!
Ok, onwards.
The end of Scarred and the prologue of Fractured GUTTED me. It had me in tears and left me heartbroken. Oh and the effing Goodreads blurb yup, pretty painful.
So needless to say I went into this knowing I was going to need a box of Kleenex and possibly a shot of tequila. It didn't help that the author and her fellow author/friend Shannon Morton actually told me I was going to ugly cry at one point in this. After stressing they NEVER cry at books. Fair warning and all that I suppose.
This book picks up about 3 weeks after the end of Scarred. 3 weeks after Sean and Jay's attack. 3 weeks after Matty's death and Scarlet's subsequent emotional breakdown and disappearance. Ruby regains consciousness in the middle of the woods, the last 3 weeks being a complete and total black hole to her with no recollection of how she got there. With the help of three seemingly random werewolves she is taken in, cleaned, fed and taken care of until she can make it back home to New Hampshire. Once there she has no idea what to expect from any of the people she cares about. She first runs into Connor. Can I just segue here and say I love Connor. I've always loved him, even thru his dark period and he doesn't disappoint me here in this book. Ok, back to what I was saying. Her meetings with Connor, Peyta, Alan and finally Sean are harsh. There are definite repercussions to her disappearance that she has to deal with that she would've never thought possible. From all ends. Not to mention she has to deal with Matty's death. The Rev turned him into a crazy wolf, but Ruby remembers and loves him for the man he was before he changed. Her friend, her dance partner, a man who held a part of her heart. It was tough to watch her try and figure out her feelings. 3 weeks may have passed in reality, but to Ruby it was only days ago.
And then there's Scarlet. She has been pretty much non-existent since she released Ruby from her mental cell in the woods. No one can coax her out, Ruby doesn't hear her, doesn't feel any stirrings of her whatsoever. Which leaves Ruby disturbingly vulnerable. Especially when the three werewolves who found and helped her come knocking at her door asking for her and Connor's help and protection. Which, if you know Connor, you can probably guess how that went over. Not well. At all. The three werewolves- escapees from a pretty dangerous pack in the UK- are desperate. Janner, Alistair and Beckett have committed some fouls, lost people they loved and were given the chance to escape, so they run to the one person they believe can protect them the best, the RB.
Enter Sean. Ruby had seen him briefly at Matty's funeral but was in no mental state to talk to him. She was petrified he hated her and blamed her and couldn't deal with another loss on the day they buried Matty. But she couldn't avoid him when he walks into her apartment moments after the rogue werewolves do, demanding explanations and declaring himself as her mate. After some heated discussions and heartfelt admissions he and Ruby are finally back on track. As much as I love Connor, I know that Sean is who Ruby is supposed to be with. He has a monster inside of him that needs to be tamed, just as Ruby does (although not as literally). Ruby balances him and Sean gives her the unconditionally love that she never received when she was younger. He understands and accepts her and all of her screw-ups and never-ending penchant for finding and getting into trouble.
So you have an overprotective Connor (which you find out why exactly that is the case), a relatively damaged Peyta, a Sean that you want to hug and hogtie down so he doesn't change personalities again, an absurdly (and somewhat creepy in that state) happy Ronnie, the three stooges of werewolves, a psycho alpha, a heartbreaking presence that I can't really tell you about, oh and Gavin the man of talking in riddles and planting seeds of distrust. One additional bit of awesomeness- you have the new dynamic of the three werewolves adding to the smart assed hilarity that is Connor and Ruby.
I loved this book. Even as vague as I am being about it, I just want you to go and read it and then tell me what you think. I need to share in this book with you people!!
July 27, 2017
This book was absolutely one of the best I've ever read! I've read the series several times...
September 12, 2017
Paranormal intrigue
Things are never normal in the life of our heroine and all the crazy members of her strange family. This story answers some questions but leaves more hanging.
Things are never normal in the life of our heroine and all the crazy members of her strange family. This story answers some questions but leaves more hanging.
September 13, 2017
Incredible series
Don't hesitate to purchase this series, it's amazing different twist to the other paranormal books out. It's a must start with book 1
Don't hesitate to purchase this series, it's amazing different twist to the other paranormal books out. It's a must start with book 1
Read
February 23, 2018Awesome
And just like the first 4 books in this series, this one is also an amazing read. Once I start reading, Its hard to put down.
And just like the first 4 books in this series, this one is also an amazing read. Once I start reading, Its hard to put down.
April 15, 2018
Amazing amazing
Oh I loved this one. The story only gets better with each book. The characters are unique and can stand alone!!
Oh I loved this one. The story only gets better with each book. The characters are unique and can stand alone!!
May 16, 2018
Good read
Im fully emotionally invested. Tears are in full effect. I truly love the author’s style of writing, Ruby and Sean are me and my best friend.
Im fully emotionally invested. Tears are in full effect. I truly love the author’s style of writing, Ruby and Sean are me and my best friend.
May 19, 2018
Amazing
This series just keeps getting better. You never know what Ruby is going to have to face and how she'll handle it. Definitely a must read.
This series just keeps getting better. You never know what Ruby is going to have to face and how she'll handle it. Definitely a must read.
August 21, 2013
I���m not going to lie to you folks, Scarred sort of wrecked me. Like utterly.
Like I���m pretty sure Amber Lynn Natusch was a little bit worried I might cause myself actually bodily harm. (yes yes, those of you who���ve read Fractured already are pointing and whispering behind your hands about the correlation, but
Anyways, going into Fractured, I was sort of numb. Actually, I was sort of thinking of not reading Fractured. Maybe distancing myself from the story a bit. Scarred really was that traumatic for me.
Still, Amber goes ���I have a version ready for you��� and like Pavlov���s fucking dog I sit up and beg���
But back to the numb thing���
I went into this volume swearing to keep my emotional distance. To erect a wall between the story and my heart.
And like the sadistic bitch Ms. Natusch is (notice she���s Ms. Natusch now) she dragged me right back in.
���I blame the Brits.
No seriously. There���s a trio of new werewolves in town, and they just add something extra to the series. Now it���s not just Sean and Cooper fighting over Ruby. Actually, it sort of gives them some common ground. Almost bonding. Not quite bonding, but they���re getting closer.
Speaking of which? How happy am I that Sean & Ruby as well as Cooper & Ruby seem to have finally, FINALLY, settled into something they can all understand. How happy? So happy. So stinking happy.
So really, the only thing that���s mucking up our lives is Gavin.
Seriously, I want to punch that dink so hard his children will be born bruised. GD Gavin. I swear all my e-mails to Amber were ���when do we get to punch him? Now? Is it now? How about now?���
Of course there are more questions. What���s up with Scarlet? What happened in the missing weeks? What���s in the damn letter? WHEN DO I GET TO PUNCH GAVIN IN THE EAR?
I give Fractured���
Wait, why do I feel like I���m forgetting something���
OH RIGHT, THE ACTUAL PLOT OF THE BOOK!
You know. All the stuff that goes around all the interpersonal relationships.
So this time around, trouble lands on Ruby���s doorstep and it���s not her fault. No really. It���s because of the Brits. You know, the ones I said I like because they add something to the story.
Well not only do they add banter, and a common threat for Sean and Cooper (real or their overactive imaginations, I���m not telling���), and references to soccer I���m still not entirely sure I understand��� They also bring their own bad guy!
They���re so considerate.
And I have to admit, much to my shame, I totally did not see the grand finale with that whole situation coming. In fact, I kind of thought Amber dropped the ball a little bit.
I���d say more, but it would give too much away. Even, for example, me saying that I should never doubt Amber.
So I won���t say that either.
I���ll just think it really hard.
Long story short, I give Fractured 5 stars.
Like I���m pretty sure Amber Lynn Natusch was a little bit worried I might cause myself actually bodily harm. (yes yes, those of you who���ve read Fractured already are pointing and whispering behind your hands about the correlation, but
Anyways, going into Fractured, I was sort of numb. Actually, I was sort of thinking of not reading Fractured. Maybe distancing myself from the story a bit. Scarred really was that traumatic for me.
Still, Amber goes ���I have a version ready for you��� and like Pavlov���s fucking dog I sit up and beg���
But back to the numb thing���
I went into this volume swearing to keep my emotional distance. To erect a wall between the story and my heart.
And like the sadistic bitch Ms. Natusch is (notice she���s Ms. Natusch now) she dragged me right back in.
���I blame the Brits.
No seriously. There���s a trio of new werewolves in town, and they just add something extra to the series. Now it���s not just Sean and Cooper fighting over Ruby. Actually, it sort of gives them some common ground. Almost bonding. Not quite bonding, but they���re getting closer.
Speaking of which? How happy am I that Sean & Ruby as well as Cooper & Ruby seem to have finally, FINALLY, settled into something they can all understand. How happy? So happy. So stinking happy.
So really, the only thing that���s mucking up our lives is Gavin.
Seriously, I want to punch that dink so hard his children will be born bruised. GD Gavin. I swear all my e-mails to Amber were ���when do we get to punch him? Now? Is it now? How about now?���
Of course there are more questions. What���s up with Scarlet? What happened in the missing weeks? What���s in the damn letter? WHEN DO I GET TO PUNCH GAVIN IN THE EAR?
I give Fractured���
Wait, why do I feel like I���m forgetting something���
OH RIGHT, THE ACTUAL PLOT OF THE BOOK!
You know. All the stuff that goes around all the interpersonal relationships.
So this time around, trouble lands on Ruby���s doorstep and it���s not her fault. No really. It���s because of the Brits. You know, the ones I said I like because they add something to the story.
Well not only do they add banter, and a common threat for Sean and Cooper (real or their overactive imaginations, I���m not telling���), and references to soccer I���m still not entirely sure I understand��� They also bring their own bad guy!
They���re so considerate.
And I have to admit, much to my shame, I totally did not see the grand finale with that whole situation coming. In fact, I kind of thought Amber dropped the ball a little bit.
I���d say more, but it would give too much away. Even, for example, me saying that I should never doubt Amber.
So I won���t say that either.
I���ll just think it really hard.
Long story short, I give Fractured 5 stars.
March 11, 2013
*Contains slight spoilers for past books in the series*
This is a great series that I recommend everyone starts at book one for. Ruby, Scarlet, Sean, Cooper and the gang are all awesome characters that I can not get enough of.
Ruby continues to amaze me. The relationship between Sean and Ruby is still frustrating as always but has made some great strides in the right (at least in my head) direction. Then there is Gavin on the sidelined talking in Ruby's ear, what is his deal? He is on my last nerve; I can’t wait to learn more about him in book 6. Cooper I love as usual, then there are some new characters that join the gang that I enjoyed getting to know. Something that has bugged me since book one has finally been addressed. Ruby was raped and she had yet to really acknowledge the fact or deal with the emotions of it and FINALLY we have some development on that front. You can’t go through something like that, the way it happened and not have any feelings about it and I finally feel that Ruby is moving in the right direction.
As usual, Amber's writing is smooth and easy to jump into. She does a fabulous job of portraying emotions and events, you are going to cry, laugh, scream and jump for joy at the appropriate times. Although we are not left with the huge cliffhanger that was the ending of SCARRED, FRACTURED still stops way too soon for my liking and I'm left needing book 6 ASAP. Come on Amber, don't leave us waiting.
This is a great series that I recommend everyone starts at book one for. Ruby, Scarlet, Sean, Cooper and the gang are all awesome characters that I can not get enough of.
Ruby continues to amaze me. The relationship between Sean and Ruby is still frustrating as always but has made some great strides in the right (at least in my head) direction. Then there is Gavin on the sidelined talking in Ruby's ear, what is his deal? He is on my last nerve; I can’t wait to learn more about him in book 6. Cooper I love as usual, then there are some new characters that join the gang that I enjoyed getting to know. Something that has bugged me since book one has finally been addressed. Ruby was raped and she had yet to really acknowledge the fact or deal with the emotions of it and FINALLY we have some development on that front. You can’t go through something like that, the way it happened and not have any feelings about it and I finally feel that Ruby is moving in the right direction.
As usual, Amber's writing is smooth and easy to jump into. She does a fabulous job of portraying emotions and events, you are going to cry, laugh, scream and jump for joy at the appropriate times. Although we are not left with the huge cliffhanger that was the ending of SCARRED, FRACTURED still stops way too soon for my liking and I'm left needing book 6 ASAP. Come on Amber, don't leave us waiting.
March 11, 2013
I'll start by saying, I loved Fractured! If you haven't started reading the Caged series, you're missing out! There are books I like/love in a series, but rarely do I LOVE the entire series, this is one of them.
The new characters in this book, add to the dialogue & fit in perfectly. Boy oh boy Sean, he's simply his best in this book. Major swoon moments. I really started to get a better perception of who Sean really is in this book & I liked it. Cooper steps up & my adoration for him only grows. Peyta does a lot of growing up in this book & I really don't want to say much more, no spoilers. Gavin, Gavin, Gavin, he's baaaack, as well as Ginger, Alan, Jay, Ronnie & maybe Scarlet, maybe. As for Ruby, there's no way to begin to explain everything that happens there. Again major highs & major low sad moments, but all were perfect.
As always the character development is superb as well as the story line, flow & editing. I would say this book really does take you on an emotional ride, ties up some lose ends (some), shocks you speechless, closes chapters that you'll feel at your core & opens new ones that will leave you needing more. The Author has a way of making you want to kill a character one minute & love them the next, in a real genuine way. By the end of Fractured, I was ready to go back & reread the entire series again. At this point I can't remember how many times I've read this series, but YES it's THAT good! :)
The new characters in this book, add to the dialogue & fit in perfectly. Boy oh boy Sean, he's simply his best in this book. Major swoon moments. I really started to get a better perception of who Sean really is in this book & I liked it. Cooper steps up & my adoration for him only grows. Peyta does a lot of growing up in this book & I really don't want to say much more, no spoilers. Gavin, Gavin, Gavin, he's baaaack, as well as Ginger, Alan, Jay, Ronnie & maybe Scarlet, maybe. As for Ruby, there's no way to begin to explain everything that happens there. Again major highs & major low sad moments, but all were perfect.
As always the character development is superb as well as the story line, flow & editing. I would say this book really does take you on an emotional ride, ties up some lose ends (some), shocks you speechless, closes chapters that you'll feel at your core & opens new ones that will leave you needing more. The Author has a way of making you want to kill a character one minute & love them the next, in a real genuine way. By the end of Fractured, I was ready to go back & reread the entire series again. At this point I can't remember how many times I've read this series, but YES it's THAT good! :)
March 7, 2013
I have to think a bit before I write the review :-)
Ok, so I thought a bit about what I read... I am still up in the air. The writing was emotional heart wrenching (I normally don't tear up while reading but towards the end I couldn't help it... It was so raw and touching). There was a very different feel to this book. Not that I didn't enjoy every moment, it was just different. I do NOT like giving anything away so this might not come across how I want.
I felt like this book took this story in a different direction than I was expecting. Many new remarkable characters were introduced and several more were brought to a new level of interest. Ahhh this is so frustrating that I can't say anything!!! Lets try again... This was a turning point. I felt like this was part two to a saga that came to an abrupt cross in the road. I missed some aspects (that I can't mention) but this book was more emotional than the rest. This book purged to your deepest connections with the characters and the overall story. Lets take Ruby for instance. She was not always the strongest character for me to read, but she came back in Fractured fighting!!!
Did I enjoy it, yes. I neglected everything the day it came out so I could read it start to finish. I was not disappointed! It just took this story in a different direction. I will be curious to see where the next book is headed.
Ok, so I thought a bit about what I read... I am still up in the air. The writing was emotional heart wrenching (I normally don't tear up while reading but towards the end I couldn't help it... It was so raw and touching). There was a very different feel to this book. Not that I didn't enjoy every moment, it was just different. I do NOT like giving anything away so this might not come across how I want.
I felt like this book took this story in a different direction than I was expecting. Many new remarkable characters were introduced and several more were brought to a new level of interest. Ahhh this is so frustrating that I can't say anything!!! Lets try again... This was a turning point. I felt like this was part two to a saga that came to an abrupt cross in the road. I missed some aspects (that I can't mention) but this book was more emotional than the rest. This book purged to your deepest connections with the characters and the overall story. Lets take Ruby for instance. She was not always the strongest character for me to read, but she came back in Fractured fighting!!!
Did I enjoy it, yes. I neglected everything the day it came out so I could read it start to finish. I was not disappointed! It just took this story in a different direction. I will be curious to see where the next book is headed.
March 25, 2013
FRACTURED is book 5 of Natusch's CAGED series. It picks up three weeks after the end of the fourth book, with Ruby returning home. She has no memory of what happened, and many of her friends feared she was dead. Her ability to settle back into her life is interrupted by a bunch of new werewolves, eager to join her pack. Of course, they think she's going to protect them from their enemies, which puts her in an awkward position.
FRACTURED moves a little bit slower than the last few books, closer to the pacing in book 1. Ruby has more time to reflect on her life, her choices, or lack thereof. Often, it feels like she's in mourning over the traumatic events of book 4. She almost, but not quite, slips back into comfortable rhythm with the people around her. Everyone is the same, but a little different.
We see a little bit more of Sean and his true nature in this book too, which is a plus for Natusch's many Sean fans. Unfortunately, some of what we learn is never confirmed, so he remains a mystery. Unlike previous books, very little new truths are really unveiled, and the focus remains mostly on Ruby's feelings of guilt and helplessness. It serves to build her character, but limits the breathless quality in books 2-4. But thanks to the quality of writing and the interesting voice, it remains a pleasure to visit Ruby's world.
4 Phoenix Hatchlings
FRACTURED moves a little bit slower than the last few books, closer to the pacing in book 1. Ruby has more time to reflect on her life, her choices, or lack thereof. Often, it feels like she's in mourning over the traumatic events of book 4. She almost, but not quite, slips back into comfortable rhythm with the people around her. Everyone is the same, but a little different.
We see a little bit more of Sean and his true nature in this book too, which is a plus for Natusch's many Sean fans. Unfortunately, some of what we learn is never confirmed, so he remains a mystery. Unlike previous books, very little new truths are really unveiled, and the focus remains mostly on Ruby's feelings of guilt and helplessness. It serves to build her character, but limits the breathless quality in books 2-4. But thanks to the quality of writing and the interesting voice, it remains a pleasure to visit Ruby's world.
4 Phoenix Hatchlings
March 6, 2013
I didn't want to click that finish button, that meant that another of Amber Lynn Natusch book was done, first of all thank you again for the opportunity of the contest to allow me to win this book, I love this series, I cant seem to get enough of Ruby/Scarlet, Sean and my Cooper. So for the review, for those who are unfamiliar with this series, or haven’t read this yet, Get off the couch and buy all 5 books because it's worth every freaking dollar!!!!
Ruby is one of a kind werewolf (though now I believe there is others like her out there), and I was flipping stoked that we now have Brits in the mix, and I wonder how Scarlet will feel about them in the next book, she either likes you or wants to rip you head from the limb. So if you read all the other books then you know that Ruby/Scarlet was leaving the scene There is a missing period for Ruby and the aftermath of her return seems to be an emotional one, heck there is a part in the book that i got teary over Scarlet. I am still on Team Cooper, but Sean won some points in this book. Can't wait for the next one, there is the mystery of Gavin though I am speculating some things that are going to go down but I will keep those to me don't want to give the books away.
Read it plain and simple, you will love it :)
Ruby is one of a kind werewolf (though now I believe there is others like her out there), and I was flipping stoked that we now have Brits in the mix, and I wonder how Scarlet will feel about them in the next book, she either likes you or wants to rip you head from the limb. So if you read all the other books then you know that Ruby/Scarlet was leaving the scene There is a missing period for Ruby and the aftermath of her return seems to be an emotional one, heck there is a part in the book that i got teary over Scarlet. I am still on Team Cooper, but Sean won some points in this book. Can't wait for the next one, there is the mystery of Gavin though I am speculating some things that are going to go down but I will keep those to me don't want to give the books away.
Read it plain and simple, you will love it :)
May 27, 2013
I hate reviews with spoilers so there won't be any here.
This is book 5 in the Caged series and every book just gets better and better. They need to be read in order or this book will not make much sense as there is very little time in the proceedings to rehash the previous books. The whole series contains great plots and each book flows from the one before. The great characters are both believable and likeable in spite of, or perhaps because of, their various 'flaws'.
I read a lot but there is something about Amber's writing that sucks me into her world and makes me feel the emotions of her characters in a way that I don't think any other author has. She tackles difficult and painful subjects without glossing over them or glorifying the violence and deals with the emotional fallout in a very tactful and sensitive way.
If you haven't guessed by now, I love this book and the entire series and can't recommend it highly enough
This is book 5 in the Caged series and every book just gets better and better. They need to be read in order or this book will not make much sense as there is very little time in the proceedings to rehash the previous books. The whole series contains great plots and each book flows from the one before. The great characters are both believable and likeable in spite of, or perhaps because of, their various 'flaws'.
I read a lot but there is something about Amber's writing that sucks me into her world and makes me feel the emotions of her characters in a way that I don't think any other author has. She tackles difficult and painful subjects without glossing over them or glorifying the violence and deals with the emotional fallout in a very tactful and sensitive way.
If you haven't guessed by now, I love this book and the entire series and can't recommend it highly enough
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