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The Divide that Binds Us
In a world where dragons are the life source, their sudden mysterious deaths slowly push Zeala into peril. When nineteen-year-old Alice Reid investigates the cause, she runs into members of a rival paramilitary organization for the first time. The encounter takes a violent turn, igniting Commander Rio Shackler’s curiosity for two reasons: Alice can summon a mythical being, and clues about the deaths conveniently point to her. With Rio's mission to enforce dragon safety, he pursues Alice to eliminate a potential threat. The two clash, unaware of the other’s agenda, and unknowingly fueling their divided organizations.
As more dragons perish, the world withers from the depletion of its life force. Trees die, fires lose oxygen, grass dries out, plants wilt into black rot, and the water supply dwindles. Alice and Rio find themselves on opposite sides of the truth but with a common enemy that binds them. In order to work together, they must set aside their bickering, scheming, and contrasting personalities, but mutual loathing won’t be their only obstacle. Questionable deities, a nefarious cult, and corruption brewing in the heart of the monarchy threaten each step they take toward saving their world. If Alice and Rio can’t unravel the mystery in time, the feud between their organizations will be the least of their worries.
As more dragons perish, the world withers from the depletion of its life force. Trees die, fires lose oxygen, grass dries out, plants wilt into black rot, and the water supply dwindles. Alice and Rio find themselves on opposite sides of the truth but with a common enemy that binds them. In order to work together, they must set aside their bickering, scheming, and contrasting personalities, but mutual loathing won’t be their only obstacle. Questionable deities, a nefarious cult, and corruption brewing in the heart of the monarchy threaten each step they take toward saving their world. If Alice and Rio can’t unravel the mystery in time, the feud between their organizations will be the least of their worries.
Published May 16, 2025
12 people are currently reading
4540 people want to read
About the author
Michelle J.
1 book34 followersMichelle J (she/her) is a fantasy author from upstate New York with a faulty social battery.
Her writing journey started when she received her first video game, Kingdom Hearts on her 8th birthday. As she learned about storytelling through video games, she explored gameplay and writing as ways to express herself and make sense of the world.
Some of Michelle’s hobbies consist of spamming her husband with funny videos, drinking tea, hiking, and learning Korean.
Her writing journey started when she received her first video game, Kingdom Hearts on her 8th birthday. As she learned about storytelling through video games, she explored gameplay and writing as ways to express herself and make sense of the world.
Some of Michelle’s hobbies consist of spamming her husband with funny videos, drinking tea, hiking, and learning Korean.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
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June 19, 2025Rec via ashleyjordanwrites on IG
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May 21, 2025
⭐️: 3.25
🌶️: 0
Thank you to the author, Michelle J, for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I did like this book. It just took me a long time to get into it and I kept finding reasons to not pick it back up. But the plot and some of the characters made me keep coming back to it.
The world building was a bit clunky as was the magic system. I saw where the author was going with both but it was a slough to get there.
I appreciate when authors are ambiguous about certain MCs back stories/motivations so they can be revealed over time. But the secretiveness around Alice just started frustrating me by about 70%. At first I thought she was being written as a grumpy marshmallow but that only lasted about 30%. She clearly loves her friends but the description of her powers and why she was sequestered never really came to fruition. Adding to that her hate of Ultima? I get it but I don’t?
Rio wasn’t really a likable MMC to me. Maybe this is part of his growth arc but I just found myself not really interested in his back story. I’m also not super clear on the commander vs cadet or whatever structure of Ultima and Elite. Are the commanders also like 19? Is 19 an important age in this world?
Lastly, the side characters. There were SO many to keep track of that either were “blink and you missed it” or the names were so similar to one another that I kept getting lost as to who was who.
The ending leaves you on a cliff hanger. But I don’t really get it? Suddenly this one dangerous element is over (or so the narrator implies) but that’s not how the last action sequence seems to wrap it up?
Maybe this book wasn’t for me. I might check out the second one when it comes out but who knows. I did enjoy parts of it so I’m giving it a pretty middle of the road rating.
🌶️: 0
Thank you to the author, Michelle J, for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I did like this book. It just took me a long time to get into it and I kept finding reasons to not pick it back up. But the plot and some of the characters made me keep coming back to it.
The world building was a bit clunky as was the magic system. I saw where the author was going with both but it was a slough to get there.
I appreciate when authors are ambiguous about certain MCs back stories/motivations so they can be revealed over time. But the secretiveness around Alice just started frustrating me by about 70%. At first I thought she was being written as a grumpy marshmallow but that only lasted about 30%. She clearly loves her friends but the description of her powers and why she was sequestered never really came to fruition. Adding to that her hate of Ultima? I get it but I don’t?
Rio wasn’t really a likable MMC to me. Maybe this is part of his growth arc but I just found myself not really interested in his back story. I’m also not super clear on the commander vs cadet or whatever structure of Ultima and Elite. Are the commanders also like 19? Is 19 an important age in this world?
Lastly, the side characters. There were SO many to keep track of that either were “blink and you missed it” or the names were so similar to one another that I kept getting lost as to who was who.
The ending leaves you on a cliff hanger. But I don’t really get it? Suddenly this one dangerous element is over (or so the narrator implies) but that’s not how the last action sequence seems to wrap it up?
Maybe this book wasn’t for me. I might check out the second one when it comes out but who knows. I did enjoy parts of it so I’m giving it a pretty middle of the road rating.
June 2, 2025
[Thank you to the author/publisher for the eARC! All opinions are my own.]
This was a super fun read, but feels best for upper middle grade/younger YA audiences! I went into it thinking it would be more upper YA, so I had to adjust my perspective a bit while reading. I would’ve eaten this RIGHT UP in my middle school years, though.
I loved the unique way that dragons were integral to humanity in this book. I also loved the variety of gemstone based islands and the interesting and diverse magical powers of the characters. While exaggerated at times and a little too heavy on modern expressions, I found the dialogue entertaining and the characters diverse, dynamic and engaging (although not super deep). The pace was kept at a good clip the whole way through.
It does break me out of the story and world a bit when real-life, modern technologies and language are inserted into an otherwise fantasy world. I just feel there was a missed opportunity for more immersive and unique world building, to match the cool dragon-dependent society and fantastical elements. The shifting POVs also tripped me up a bit since they often went from first person to third person. The last thing I’d mention is that some of the twists were obvious early on, and some of the most important aspects of the whole ~secret evil plot~ were simply told straight to the reader. I would’ve loved to see these aspects delivered in a more thoughtful and subtle way.
Overall, though, had a lot of fun with this one and feel it’s a good option for its target audience/age group! Since this is a debut, I’d definitely be interested in keeping tabs on this author’s future work as well!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Romance level: None
This was a super fun read, but feels best for upper middle grade/younger YA audiences! I went into it thinking it would be more upper YA, so I had to adjust my perspective a bit while reading. I would’ve eaten this RIGHT UP in my middle school years, though.
I loved the unique way that dragons were integral to humanity in this book. I also loved the variety of gemstone based islands and the interesting and diverse magical powers of the characters. While exaggerated at times and a little too heavy on modern expressions, I found the dialogue entertaining and the characters diverse, dynamic and engaging (although not super deep). The pace was kept at a good clip the whole way through.
It does break me out of the story and world a bit when real-life, modern technologies and language are inserted into an otherwise fantasy world. I just feel there was a missed opportunity for more immersive and unique world building, to match the cool dragon-dependent society and fantastical elements. The shifting POVs also tripped me up a bit since they often went from first person to third person. The last thing I’d mention is that some of the twists were obvious early on, and some of the most important aspects of the whole ~secret evil plot~ were simply told straight to the reader. I would’ve loved to see these aspects delivered in a more thoughtful and subtle way.
Overall, though, had a lot of fun with this one and feel it’s a good option for its target audience/age group! Since this is a debut, I’d definitely be interested in keeping tabs on this author’s future work as well!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Romance level: None
May 17, 2025
RATING: 3.5 rounded up to 4
INSTAGRAM POST (for extended thoughts): https://www.instagram.com/p/DJuT2wRvn...
Thank you to the author and Midnight Meadows Publishing for the opportunity to read an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
How often have you ever read a fantasy book with modern logic and technology? In a world where dragons and cell phones co-exist, The Divide that Binds Us, while not the first time I've come across the concept, executes it in a way that makes for a satisfying light read.
The story follows a variety of characters, but the main viewpoints are Alice Reid and Rio Shackler. Alice and Rio are members of rival organizations with the purpose to protect the people across all the islands in their world. When an influx of dragons are mysteriously murdered, the two are sent to investigate the cause. However, this mystery is wrought with their desire to take down each other's organization, but they find that their own agendas may be linked to the root of the dragons' demise.
The plot and the LGBTQ+ representation are surprisingly the strongest points of the book for me. Knowing that Alice is asexual and Rio is demisexual allowed for the plot to flourish. Without romance thrown in the mix, the political intrigue, schemes between/within them and their friends, and a gradual unraveling of the mystery through the perspectives of supporting characters kept my interest from beginning to end. Out of all the supporting characters, Fae and her interactions with dragons were my favorite moments to read.
There were times when I felt the worldbuilding could've been fleshed out more and the lore revealed less through exposition. The pacing and dialogue was also a little inconsistent at times, though this aspect didn't take away too much of my enjoyment.
Otherwise, I think this is a solid first book from a debut author. Definitely recommend giving this a read if you like YA books with a twist in the fantasy worldbuilding formula and queer rep!
INSTAGRAM POST (for extended thoughts): https://www.instagram.com/p/DJuT2wRvn...
Thank you to the author and Midnight Meadows Publishing for the opportunity to read an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
How often have you ever read a fantasy book with modern logic and technology? In a world where dragons and cell phones co-exist, The Divide that Binds Us, while not the first time I've come across the concept, executes it in a way that makes for a satisfying light read.
The story follows a variety of characters, but the main viewpoints are Alice Reid and Rio Shackler. Alice and Rio are members of rival organizations with the purpose to protect the people across all the islands in their world. When an influx of dragons are mysteriously murdered, the two are sent to investigate the cause. However, this mystery is wrought with their desire to take down each other's organization, but they find that their own agendas may be linked to the root of the dragons' demise.
The plot and the LGBTQ+ representation are surprisingly the strongest points of the book for me. Knowing that Alice is asexual and Rio is demisexual allowed for the plot to flourish. Without romance thrown in the mix, the political intrigue, schemes between/within them and their friends, and a gradual unraveling of the mystery through the perspectives of supporting characters kept my interest from beginning to end. Out of all the supporting characters, Fae and her interactions with dragons were my favorite moments to read.
There were times when I felt the worldbuilding could've been fleshed out more and the lore revealed less through exposition. The pacing and dialogue was also a little inconsistent at times, though this aspect didn't take away too much of my enjoyment.
Otherwise, I think this is a solid first book from a debut author. Definitely recommend giving this a read if you like YA books with a twist in the fantasy worldbuilding formula and queer rep!
July 12, 2025
When the sky rained blood, I was hooked. And, by the by, the sky is raining with blood on page ONE.
This beautiful book came out the day before my birthday, and it was the best early birthday present!
To this day, one of my favorite movies is Dragonheart. Laugh it up, but there's always been something magical to me about humans communicating with dragons. It's timeless, sometimes amusing, and always compelling. I got to re-experience that feeling within the pages of Michelle J's debut novel.
A huge cast of characters with multiple POVs leant itself well to the author's rich world-building and political drama. I found myself surprised, time and time again, when a secret was unearthed or a twist revealed that perhaps I *should* have seen coming...but gosh darn it, I didn't.
This felt like a fantastical coming of age story that I wish I could have been a part of during my own teenage years. For the magic, the friendships, the rigorous training, the adventure...
...but mostly for the dragons.
This beautiful book came out the day before my birthday, and it was the best early birthday present!
To this day, one of my favorite movies is Dragonheart. Laugh it up, but there's always been something magical to me about humans communicating with dragons. It's timeless, sometimes amusing, and always compelling. I got to re-experience that feeling within the pages of Michelle J's debut novel.
A huge cast of characters with multiple POVs leant itself well to the author's rich world-building and political drama. I found myself surprised, time and time again, when a secret was unearthed or a twist revealed that perhaps I *should* have seen coming...but gosh darn it, I didn't.
This felt like a fantastical coming of age story that I wish I could have been a part of during my own teenage years. For the magic, the friendships, the rigorous training, the adventure...
...but mostly for the dragons.
April 27, 2025
Hi 👋🏽
I’m only here to drop a quick note as this space is for the readers, not me.
I worked on THE DIVIDE THAT BINDS US for over ten years and watched it evolve every step of the way. It’s been a long journey, and I’ve met some amazing people along the way. So, I just want to say thank you for joining me on this wild ride that is publishing. If TDTBU is on your list of books to read, Alice and Rio are excited for you to meet them 🤍
Below are content considerations for you to review before jumping into Zeala:
blood/gore | anxiety/panic attacks | mention of suicide/self-harm from one’s past | homicides | mention of death of family/friends | depression | physical/magical/gun violence | kidnapping/detainment | child with bruises | fictional animal harm/death (dragons) | mention of alcohol consumption | electrocution/brainwashing | mild language | magic induced coma | rapid weight loss from magical ailment
I’m only here to drop a quick note as this space is for the readers, not me.
I worked on THE DIVIDE THAT BINDS US for over ten years and watched it evolve every step of the way. It’s been a long journey, and I’ve met some amazing people along the way. So, I just want to say thank you for joining me on this wild ride that is publishing. If TDTBU is on your list of books to read, Alice and Rio are excited for you to meet them 🤍
Below are content considerations for you to review before jumping into Zeala:
blood/gore | anxiety/panic attacks | mention of suicide/self-harm from one’s past | homicides | mention of death of family/friends | depression | physical/magical/gun violence | kidnapping/detainment | child with bruises | fictional animal harm/death (dragons) | mention of alcohol consumption | electrocution/brainwashing | mild language | magic induced coma | rapid weight loss from magical ailment
June 21, 2025
Sadly, this one just didn't work out for me.
The dialogue was juvenile, so it's more for younger readers, I guess. We didn't really get to know the backstory of the world and magic system, but there will probably be at least one more book, so hopefully it will be explained more in it.
The two main characters dislike each other, but there is not a enemies-to-lovers trope which is refreshing to see! Honestly, their interactions seemed a bit childish to me, so I can't say I felt connected to any of the character really.
Even tho I didn't really enjoy this book, I want to support the author and I wish her a successful career! I think I will still check out the next book. :)
The dialogue was juvenile, so it's more for younger readers, I guess. We didn't really get to know the backstory of the world and magic system, but there will probably be at least one more book, so hopefully it will be explained more in it.
The two main characters dislike each other, but there is not a enemies-to-lovers trope which is refreshing to see! Honestly, their interactions seemed a bit childish to me, so I can't say I felt connected to any of the character really.
Even tho I didn't really enjoy this book, I want to support the author and I wish her a successful career! I think I will still check out the next book. :)
September 15, 2025
spent the whole time trying to make sense of what was happening and could Not. couldn't keep up with what the characters were doing bc none of it made sense!!
also the whole book is woven around one big (or many many many) miscommunication between these two rival agencies, which, at one point, just becomes tiring to read, and also, why do they hate each other so much?? we don't know anything about what started this rivalry, except that they hate each other and will attack each other when possible. ok?
and i need that guy to stop smirking
also the whole book is woven around one big (or many many many) miscommunication between these two rival agencies, which, at one point, just becomes tiring to read, and also, why do they hate each other so much?? we don't know anything about what started this rivalry, except that they hate each other and will attack each other when possible. ok?
and i need that guy to stop smirking
Read
September 11, 2025I tried, but it’s just not for me.
I don’t like the mix of real-world modern tech with a fantasy world of dragons. But that’s my personal preference.
The language also wasn’t for me, parts of it were like listening to a conversation between middle-schoolers, it was only missing a skibidi
The world building / magic system is also lacking
I don’t like the mix of real-world modern tech with a fantasy world of dragons. But that’s my personal preference.
The language also wasn’t for me, parts of it were like listening to a conversation between middle-schoolers, it was only missing a skibidi
The world building / magic system is also lacking
November 25, 2025
From the very first page, I was hooked on this fantasy meets futuristic sci fi world, complete with a fresh, modern voice. Rich in world building and mystery, Michelle J has created a story with a full cast of characters and POVs to keep the page turning. And who can resist a baby dragon?!! The whole time, I was rooting for Alice and adored a character written with grit, determination, and a tenacity to keep going no matter what. Watching her arc meet Rio's was as satisfying as their head butting along the way! Definitely pick this up if you love fantasy mixed with sci fi elements and all the current lingo.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews