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The Aftermath #1
The Shattered Ones
NO ONE EVER CARED MUCH ABOUT THIS TERRITORY
Gabriel just wants to do his job and be left alone. The alien oppressors of his childhood may be gone, but their legacy of unearthly technology, nightmarish monsters, and ordinary people developing Shattered powers still lingers. With the violent past threatening to become a bloody present, Gabriel joins forces with the other members of his base—men and women of the Earth Defense Force who successfully pushed the xenos back into space eight years ago.
Seven veterans. One rookie. None of them ever had the families they dreamed of, but battle forges a bond stronger than blood. When the unthinkable happens, Gabriel must trust his newfound family, find his own courage, and embrace the truth he’s always known—that even the worst places and most broken people deserve someone who’s willing to fight for them.
Gabriel just wants to do his job and be left alone. The alien oppressors of his childhood may be gone, but their legacy of unearthly technology, nightmarish monsters, and ordinary people developing Shattered powers still lingers. With the violent past threatening to become a bloody present, Gabriel joins forces with the other members of his base—men and women of the Earth Defense Force who successfully pushed the xenos back into space eight years ago.
Seven veterans. One rookie. None of them ever had the families they dreamed of, but battle forges a bond stronger than blood. When the unthinkable happens, Gabriel must trust his newfound family, find his own courage, and embrace the truth he’s always known—that even the worst places and most broken people deserve someone who’s willing to fight for them.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2024
About the author
Brigitte Cromey
9 books67 followersBrigitte Cromey has been known to daydream so heavily that a gong must be rung to retrieve her. (This annoys her family, who can never be sure if she’s actually heard what they’ve just said to her.)
When not submerged in worlds of her own making, she can be found cooking with bizarre ingredients, reading entire books in a single sitting, dressing her children up as fairies and knights, and occasionally responding to the world with kindness tainted by cynicism.
Brigitte lives in Southern Arizona with her husband and children. Should you encounter her, the kettle will always be on.
When not submerged in worlds of her own making, she can be found cooking with bizarre ingredients, reading entire books in a single sitting, dressing her children up as fairies and knights, and occasionally responding to the world with kindness tainted by cynicism.
Brigitte lives in Southern Arizona with her husband and children. Should you encounter her, the kettle will always be on.
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August 26, 2024I toss a lot of buzzwords around when I market this series.
Sci-fi. Dystopian. Post-apocalyptic. Technology and superpowers.
God help me, I even compare it to things like the early Marvel films, the Bad Batch series, and the Halo video game franchise.
They’re all good words. They serve to pigeon-hole this story into the correct niches, to better identify its ideal readers. There’s just one thing more I’d like to convey, and that’s its heart.
See, most people hear the words "post-apocalyptic" and "dystopian" and balk at the idea of yet another world steeped in hopelessness and brutality. These stories often take a massive scale, with the fate of all humanity (or at least those who survived the zombies) at stake—and that’s where The Shattered Ones deviates from the norm.
This story takes a near-future world touched by global cataclysm and focuses not on the macro scale but the micro—on one life, and a tiny corner of the map that no one cares about other than the people who love it too much to leave. While set against a backdrop of high stakes for the region, the story is ultimately about Gabriel’s personal journey from fear to bravery, and eventually the willingness to sacrifice himself for the place he loves.
There’s peril and action aplenty, but this story is tempered with softness—with the smell of desert rain, the laughter of friends around a firepit, and the strength of someone’s arms around you as you let yourself cry for the first time in years.
Dystopian fiction often means a hopeless tone and objectionable content passed off as "gritty realism", but not here. Not on my watch. At its heart, The Shattered Ones is a story of unexpected courage, of an outsider being welcomed into a family, of bleeding hope into darkness and chaos, and of a broken but beautiful place with people worth fighting for.
Thanks for hearing my heart for this story. I hope you'll consider preordering, and I hope you'll enjoy.
Sci-fi. Dystopian. Post-apocalyptic. Technology and superpowers.
God help me, I even compare it to things like the early Marvel films, the Bad Batch series, and the Halo video game franchise.
They’re all good words. They serve to pigeon-hole this story into the correct niches, to better identify its ideal readers. There’s just one thing more I’d like to convey, and that’s its heart.
See, most people hear the words "post-apocalyptic" and "dystopian" and balk at the idea of yet another world steeped in hopelessness and brutality. These stories often take a massive scale, with the fate of all humanity (or at least those who survived the zombies) at stake—and that’s where The Shattered Ones deviates from the norm.
This story takes a near-future world touched by global cataclysm and focuses not on the macro scale but the micro—on one life, and a tiny corner of the map that no one cares about other than the people who love it too much to leave. While set against a backdrop of high stakes for the region, the story is ultimately about Gabriel’s personal journey from fear to bravery, and eventually the willingness to sacrifice himself for the place he loves.
There’s peril and action aplenty, but this story is tempered with softness—with the smell of desert rain, the laughter of friends around a firepit, and the strength of someone’s arms around you as you let yourself cry for the first time in years.
Dystopian fiction often means a hopeless tone and objectionable content passed off as "gritty realism", but not here. Not on my watch. At its heart, The Shattered Ones is a story of unexpected courage, of an outsider being welcomed into a family, of bleeding hope into darkness and chaos, and of a broken but beautiful place with people worth fighting for.
Thanks for hearing my heart for this story. I hope you'll consider preordering, and I hope you'll enjoy.
April 3, 2025
This is a wonderful story.
I highlighted so many parts in The Shattered Ones. Seriously. My Kindle notebook is stuffed full of excellent quotes, and feelsy quotes, and hilarious quotes, and just plain awesome quotes.
First of all, the overall vibe of the book captivated me. It’s got a wonderfully unique and atmospheric setting, being in the Arizona desert. The desert sci-fi worldbuilding is perfectly fitting and very cool (and then it’s also very cool how Gabriel treasures taking notes in a physical notebook amidst all the tech). And the genre blend is also so good. Genre-blending under the speculative fiction umbrella has become one of my new favorite things in recent years, so this post-apocalyptic meets dystopian meets science-fiction meets superhero story meets a-tiny-bit-of-Western hits the spot. The Shattered superpowers are vivid, gripping, and generally fantastic, and I really admired and appreciated how the author defines the characters’ limits realistically and believably, saddling the Shattered with the risk of Burnout. (Something that’s rather relatable in real life, too, I must say.)
Then. I just have to say. The Food. If you know, you know. German apple strudel, roasting marshmallows, tacos, posole, pancakes, kartoffelpuffer, chili, lebkuchen, cornbread, agua de jamaica, chorizo, paletas, and plenty of coffee and hot chocolate…the book makes me hungry. And gives me a craving for delicious beverages. I can almost guarantee that if you read it, it will do the same for you. So yes. (And Brigitte included a couple of the recipes in the back of the book, so that’s super fun, too!)
But beyond the food descriptions themselves, there’s just nothing like sharing a meal with people you love, people you belong to and who belong to you, and this book had that found-family fellowship in abundance.
And the characters…oh, the characters. I love them dearly. They’re all distinct and spirited and alive, each with specific, fun traits and talents. Eye-patched, techy, German, hair-streaked-pink cook Deadeye. Gentle yet intense sharpshooter Bandit. Mischievous and sarcastic Russian Shattered, Judge. Committed and compassionate medic Josephine. Passionate Tara and steady Caleb. The sensitive, determined, full-of-quiet-strength main character, Gabriel/Gabe. All of the characters’ voices are unique to them, and I was always immersed in the natural, engaging dialogue.
These people share meals. Hugs. Movie nights. Jokes. Pillow fights. Battles. Lives. They’re a family, and nothing will stop them from protecting each other and working together to stand up for those who cannot protect themselves.
Basically, I just love crew stories so, so much. (And all of the communication! The good conversations! The processing! Yes!)
The author also very compassionately and thoughtfully depicts trauma, something that impressed me so much. She certainly doesn’t shy away from depicting the darkness and grit of war, rebellion, and loss (as it should be), but she doesn’t dive too far into certain elements of that trauma. And I thought that was very wise and respectful of her. So many kudos to Brigitte for her sensitive handling of the darkness and for spotlighting hope in a commonly grimdark genre.
Then there’s the theme of the book as a whole. And oh, Gabe…he’s a character I just want to hug tightly. (Though his found family isn’t the least bit stingy about hugs, so I’m glad they have that covered.) Trusting the wrong person got him hurt, but he so badly doesn’t want to survive on his own. And he still loves telling and collecting stories, getting to know people and learning about their lives, which is a part of him I loved, too. Gabriel’s quest and longing to really belong is hard and painful, but he’s still clinging to the promise of healing, the promise that’s still there, even though it often feels like a desert sunrise shrouded by clouds over the desert he loves so much. His journey is something that made me think and renewed my hope.
A few times during the book, I had a bit of trouble following the plot, but that could just be a me thing. Overall, the storyline is absorbing and well-planned, and it was also so unique and interesting to follow a plot that happened after the first rebellion. (Which made me sad that I couldn’t meet Michael. He sounded great.) Plus, the action scenes are top-notch.
To land the plane here before I keep rambling on and on, Brigitte has marketed The Shattered Ones with comps of The Bad Batch and early Marvel movies, and the book 100% has the heart and energy of those two things. (And then there’s an added element of storms, so I was thinking of a Southwest Stormlight Archive a bit, too.) So if you love Clone Force 99, those early tales of the Avengers, and/or unique, hopeful stories in general, The Shattered Ones may be exactly what you’re looking for. I know I’m glad I read it. I can’t wait to own it. And I can’t wait for the rest of the stories in the Aftermath.
🌮 heads-up: this book has a PG-13 rating for a bit of language 🌮
* The author very kindly sent me an eARC of this book, but all thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
“Staring down the darkness makes it easier to see all the things we stand to lose.”
I highlighted so many parts in The Shattered Ones. Seriously. My Kindle notebook is stuffed full of excellent quotes, and feelsy quotes, and hilarious quotes, and just plain awesome quotes.
First of all, the overall vibe of the book captivated me. It’s got a wonderfully unique and atmospheric setting, being in the Arizona desert. The desert sci-fi worldbuilding is perfectly fitting and very cool (and then it’s also very cool how Gabriel treasures taking notes in a physical notebook amidst all the tech). And the genre blend is also so good. Genre-blending under the speculative fiction umbrella has become one of my new favorite things in recent years, so this post-apocalyptic meets dystopian meets science-fiction meets superhero story meets a-tiny-bit-of-Western hits the spot. The Shattered superpowers are vivid, gripping, and generally fantastic, and I really admired and appreciated how the author defines the characters’ limits realistically and believably, saddling the Shattered with the risk of Burnout. (Something that’s rather relatable in real life, too, I must say.)
Then. I just have to say. The Food. If you know, you know. German apple strudel, roasting marshmallows, tacos, posole, pancakes, kartoffelpuffer, chili, lebkuchen, cornbread, agua de jamaica, chorizo, paletas, and plenty of coffee and hot chocolate…the book makes me hungry. And gives me a craving for delicious beverages. I can almost guarantee that if you read it, it will do the same for you. So yes. (And Brigitte included a couple of the recipes in the back of the book, so that’s super fun, too!)
But beyond the food descriptions themselves, there’s just nothing like sharing a meal with people you love, people you belong to and who belong to you, and this book had that found-family fellowship in abundance.
And the characters…oh, the characters. I love them dearly. They’re all distinct and spirited and alive, each with specific, fun traits and talents. Eye-patched, techy, German, hair-streaked-pink cook Deadeye. Gentle yet intense sharpshooter Bandit. Mischievous and sarcastic Russian Shattered, Judge. Committed and compassionate medic Josephine. Passionate Tara and steady Caleb. The sensitive, determined, full-of-quiet-strength main character, Gabriel/Gabe. All of the characters’ voices are unique to them, and I was always immersed in the natural, engaging dialogue.
These people share meals. Hugs. Movie nights. Jokes. Pillow fights. Battles. Lives. They’re a family, and nothing will stop them from protecting each other and working together to stand up for those who cannot protect themselves.
Basically, I just love crew stories so, so much. (And all of the communication! The good conversations! The processing! Yes!)
The author also very compassionately and thoughtfully depicts trauma, something that impressed me so much. She certainly doesn’t shy away from depicting the darkness and grit of war, rebellion, and loss (as it should be), but she doesn’t dive too far into certain elements of that trauma. And I thought that was very wise and respectful of her. So many kudos to Brigitte for her sensitive handling of the darkness and for spotlighting hope in a commonly grimdark genre.
Then there’s the theme of the book as a whole. And oh, Gabe…he’s a character I just want to hug tightly. (Though his found family isn’t the least bit stingy about hugs, so I’m glad they have that covered.) Trusting the wrong person got him hurt, but he so badly doesn’t want to survive on his own. And he still loves telling and collecting stories, getting to know people and learning about their lives, which is a part of him I loved, too. Gabriel’s quest and longing to really belong is hard and painful, but he’s still clinging to the promise of healing, the promise that’s still there, even though it often feels like a desert sunrise shrouded by clouds over the desert he loves so much. His journey is something that made me think and renewed my hope.
A few times during the book, I had a bit of trouble following the plot, but that could just be a me thing. Overall, the storyline is absorbing and well-planned, and it was also so unique and interesting to follow a plot that happened after the first rebellion. (Which made me sad that I couldn’t meet Michael. He sounded great.) Plus, the action scenes are top-notch.
To land the plane here before I keep rambling on and on, Brigitte has marketed The Shattered Ones with comps of The Bad Batch and early Marvel movies, and the book 100% has the heart and energy of those two things. (And then there’s an added element of storms, so I was thinking of a Southwest Stormlight Archive a bit, too.) So if you love Clone Force 99, those early tales of the Avengers, and/or unique, hopeful stories in general, The Shattered Ones may be exactly what you’re looking for. I know I’m glad I read it. I can’t wait to own it. And I can’t wait for the rest of the stories in the Aftermath.
🌮 heads-up: this book has a PG-13 rating for a bit of language 🌮
* The author very kindly sent me an eARC of this book, but all thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
December 8, 2025
Original review
5+ stars, and The Shattered Ones is now in my top three books. Everything about it, from the characters, the world, even the pacing of it, just felt so very REAL.
I don’t know how to accurately sum up my thoughts. So I’m going to scream for a moment.
AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH MY HEARTTTTTTTTTTT
Ehem. Is it healthy to have this level of love for a book?
First off, go check out Amelie’s review of this, because she single handedly convinced me to buy this, and I agree with everything she said.
It’s been a while since I immediately connected with a book. Since I’ve wanted to cry for the characters. Since I felt immersed in a world. But The Shattered Ones did it.
The characters… where do I begin? *hugs them all* I love Tara and Caleb, the husband and wife duo who had my heart from the beginning. I love Judge, with his need to control, weird t-shirts, and snark that lifts everyone’s mood. I love artistic, techy, and one eyed Deadeye. I love Bandit, the sniper/captain who holds the team together and looks out for Gabe. I love Josephine, who patiently patches them up every time. I love quiet Logan, who fights for his dear family. I love this crew.
And Gabriel. He’s so raw and real and I just want to give him a hug. My heart… I love Gabe. He was broken, he had his flaws, and he was the perfect character.
The plot was paced very very well. There was just the right amount of action vs bonding time with the crew and training (Can I say that I LOVED the training scenes??). There was just enough backstory through memories and hints without it feeling overwhelming, and when that backstory and breakdowns did come, I was ready to cry.
And guys, I have a heart of stone when reading.
Ach, I just loved it all. The atmosphere, the training, the hugs, the movie nights, the fights with the Blood Angels and the little fights over how to properly cook marshmallows, the cooking, the THEME—
How did I forget theme? Theme is a must have for me. And it was weaved into this story so effortlessly.
I love a good story about being willing to FIGHT. Fighting for people who can’t fight for themselves, fighting against the darkness. THIS BOOK HAS IT.
This book was beautiful.
* * *
Second reread and review
“There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for.”
I needed this book right now. Before I said it was in my top three books. I was wrong. This is my favorite book.
This is my comfort book. This is the book that inspires me. This is the book that ripped out my heart and pieced it back together.
I almost cried SO many times this reread.
Words aren’t enough to explain how I feel about this book. This burning feeling of hope, this bond these characters with each other, this love and sacrifice gripping each page.
Judge was one of my favorite characters this time. I didn’t realize until the reread how close he and Gabe got. He grew so much.
Tara and Caleb also had me in a tighter chokehold. Guys I love them. I love them so much.
Gabriel had my heart just like last time. There could not be a better MC for the book.
Brigitte, thank you… thank you a million times for writing this.
5+ stars, and The Shattered Ones is now in my top three books. Everything about it, from the characters, the world, even the pacing of it, just felt so very REAL.
I don’t know how to accurately sum up my thoughts. So I’m going to scream for a moment.
AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH MY HEARTTTTTTTTTTT
Ehem. Is it healthy to have this level of love for a book?
First off, go check out Amelie’s review of this, because she single handedly convinced me to buy this, and I agree with everything she said.
It’s been a while since I immediately connected with a book. Since I’ve wanted to cry for the characters. Since I felt immersed in a world. But The Shattered Ones did it.
The characters… where do I begin? *hugs them all* I love Tara and Caleb, the husband and wife duo who had my heart from the beginning. I love Judge, with his need to control, weird t-shirts, and snark that lifts everyone’s mood. I love artistic, techy, and one eyed Deadeye. I love Bandit, the sniper/captain who holds the team together and looks out for Gabe. I love Josephine, who patiently patches them up every time. I love quiet Logan, who fights for his dear family. I love this crew.
And Gabriel. He’s so raw and real and I just want to give him a hug. My heart… I love Gabe. He was broken, he had his flaws, and he was the perfect character.
The plot was paced very very well. There was just the right amount of action vs bonding time with the crew and training (Can I say that I LOVED the training scenes??). There was just enough backstory through memories and hints without it feeling overwhelming, and when that backstory and breakdowns did come, I was ready to cry.
And guys, I have a heart of stone when reading.
Ach, I just loved it all. The atmosphere, the training, the hugs, the movie nights, the fights with the Blood Angels and the little fights over how to properly cook marshmallows, the cooking, the THEME—
How did I forget theme? Theme is a must have for me. And it was weaved into this story so effortlessly.
I love a good story about being willing to FIGHT. Fighting for people who can’t fight for themselves, fighting against the darkness. THIS BOOK HAS IT.
This book was beautiful.
* * *
Second reread and review
“There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for.”
I needed this book right now. Before I said it was in my top three books. I was wrong. This is my favorite book.
This is my comfort book. This is the book that inspires me. This is the book that ripped out my heart and pieced it back together.
I almost cried SO many times this reread.
Words aren’t enough to explain how I feel about this book. This burning feeling of hope, this bond these characters with each other, this love and sacrifice gripping each page.
Judge was one of my favorite characters this time. I didn’t realize until the reread how close he and Gabe got. He grew so much.
Tara and Caleb also had me in a tighter chokehold. Guys I love them. I love them so much.
Gabriel had my heart just like last time. There could not be a better MC for the book.
Brigitte, thank you… thank you a million times for writing this.
August 20, 2025
Read Two:
I'm simply never getting over this book, thanks. After reading it the first time, I could not stop thinking about it. It lives rent free in my mind now, and I'm totally okay with that. I decided that this would be a great book to annotate for the first time, and that was a really good decision, because I adored rereading it slowly and highlighting all the fluffy, funny, and bittersweet moments. I've never read a book with characters THIS vivid, and there are so many scenes that just run in my head like a movie, which is really impressive given that I no longer have a very vivid imagination and have difficulty picturing anything when I read. I still need everyone I know to read The Shattered Ones (PLEASE) and I cannot wait for book two to release!
Read One:
Favorite read of 2025 so far. Oh. My. Goodness.
I had really high expectations for this one. It's been recommended to me on multiple different occasions after I asked for found family dynamics and when I was searching for comp titles for my WIP. This checks alllll the boxes. And I was BLOWN OUT OF THE WATER. The dynamics between the whole team are just so pure and wholesome, and the world-building is amazing. I don't read military style fiction super often but I really, really liked how it was done in this one. I cannot WAIT for the next book and I need everyone I know to read this book immediately, please and thanks. :D
I'm simply never getting over this book, thanks. After reading it the first time, I could not stop thinking about it. It lives rent free in my mind now, and I'm totally okay with that. I decided that this would be a great book to annotate for the first time, and that was a really good decision, because I adored rereading it slowly and highlighting all the fluffy, funny, and bittersweet moments. I've never read a book with characters THIS vivid, and there are so many scenes that just run in my head like a movie, which is really impressive given that I no longer have a very vivid imagination and have difficulty picturing anything when I read. I still need everyone I know to read The Shattered Ones (PLEASE) and I cannot wait for book two to release!
Read One:
Favorite read of 2025 so far. Oh. My. Goodness.
I had really high expectations for this one. It's been recommended to me on multiple different occasions after I asked for found family dynamics and when I was searching for comp titles for my WIP. This checks alllll the boxes. And I was BLOWN OUT OF THE WATER. The dynamics between the whole team are just so pure and wholesome, and the world-building is amazing. I don't read military style fiction super often but I really, really liked how it was done in this one. I cannot WAIT for the next book and I need everyone I know to read this book immediately, please and thanks. :D
August 25, 2024
One of my favorite books.
I will probably update this review after a more recent read through, but this was my first impression after reading a super early ARC:
The Shattered Ones shattered my expectations and scattered me in the lives of heroes, where healing, courage, laughter, aliens, food, the beauty of Arizona and love warmed my heart in a poof of cyan power.
Have fun convincing me these characters aren't real, because they felt real, and I love them.
This book means a lot to me now. It's the re-readable kind. The recomendable kind. The chuck at your friends and scream at them until they read it kind of book.
If you like Marvel movies, the X-Files tv show, the Halo video game, or just want to read a really great book, allow me to nudge this one at you. You won't regret it. :)
I will probably update this review after a more recent read through, but this was my first impression after reading a super early ARC:
The Shattered Ones shattered my expectations and scattered me in the lives of heroes, where healing, courage, laughter, aliens, food, the beauty of Arizona and love warmed my heart in a poof of cyan power.
Have fun convincing me these characters aren't real, because they felt real, and I love them.
This book means a lot to me now. It's the re-readable kind. The recomendable kind. The chuck at your friends and scream at them until they read it kind of book.
If you like Marvel movies, the X-Files tv show, the Halo video game, or just want to read a really great book, allow me to nudge this one at you. You won't regret it. :)
November 9, 2025
Oh, don’t mind me. I’m just over here screaming. It’s fine. . .
But seriously, this book is AMAZING. High caliber in emotional depth, character, and charm. I’m hooked for life. There are some hard things dealt with in these pages, but the darkness is challenged by light, and this scrappy crew of mismatched but found family is precious! The determination, courage, and grit to fight back and against the odds is felt and inspiring. I was gripped by the story, too, never knowing I needed a low sci-fi high spec ops in the desert until I read the first page, and now I’m in for the long haul.
There’s also a soup recipe in the back, so . . . Bonus points. (It’s a really tasty soup)
But seriously, this book is AMAZING. High caliber in emotional depth, character, and charm. I’m hooked for life. There are some hard things dealt with in these pages, but the darkness is challenged by light, and this scrappy crew of mismatched but found family is precious! The determination, courage, and grit to fight back and against the odds is felt and inspiring. I was gripped by the story, too, never knowing I needed a low sci-fi high spec ops in the desert until I read the first page, and now I’m in for the long haul.
There’s also a soup recipe in the back, so . . . Bonus points. (It’s a really tasty soup)
March 20, 2026
"What happened to me shouldnt happen to anyone else." He met my eyes unflinchingly. "Thats why I fought then, thats why I keep fighting now. I have the ability to protect others from the horror I went through, and I'm not going to let the pain stop me." -Caleb from TSO
Lets be straight. This is why I write. I write so that as many folks as possible can find the hope that I wanted for months. Its far less extreme than what any of the poor beans from Shattered Ones went through... But I know that my pain had a purpose. It was there for such a time as this.
The novel really backed up my thoughts on this. Your hurt can't define you or you will drown in it. The right reaction to breaking, to losing control is to give more than you take. I love how my musical list today led to comparison songs... Ill list those later...
Anywho... stay on track so long as you can find it Gilliford....
And no. My full name is Gilbert... but yeah
The Self Inflicted Outcast.
This arc hurt.
Gabe, the protagonist of the story has lived pretty much his entire life in fear of other people. "Don't get attached. They have each other and there's no room for you." Ive lived in this state for years. Largely due to the amount of times that people I though I could trust, people I thought were my people tore away. They left wounds. Deep ones and only recently have those wounds been healing.
For about four years I sat with this junk on my shoulders. Without telling anyone. Honestly without realizing it... All I knew is that the people werent to be trusted. I was scared to make new friends, to keep pouring my heart into other people because all they could do was suck it down.
I miss my old eight year old self. Always smiling. Always pleased as punch to see any familiar face. Always willing to break out and dance. To get the party going and still with that adorable ridiculous sense of pride that came with adult attentions and "Adult-like information or thoughts". Sometimes I wish I had me back. Im still not all here.
Whatever the case. Last two years really broke me. Multiple deaths that were very very close to my heart, directly preceded by another entire set of my trusted friends turning tail. I may have been sad and hurting before. But Id never been depressed.
I wanted human interaction. I wanted it so bad. But I couldnt bring myself to join a clique, or try to fit in, I just sat to the side, observing and waiting for someone to acknowledge my existence. At times, trying to prove myself so that someone else would validate me. Because... if they really want me... they should take it in stride. If I dont establish a connection, and the other party chooses me... Then they will be speaking from a sense of knowing who I am and trusting me... maybe even loving.
My thought process was: Ill never have something that I can always come back to... No... Itll be another time where I drain myself to death and then get thrown out the back seat. Unless someone chooses you. You'll always be suceptible.
Hence my outgoing, theatre kid romantic personality. I set out to be as genuine to myself as possible. To be the best person I could. I became something of a rule follower. I became who I am because of fear.
But here is the truth. Thats the past. That fear doesnt define me. And God tells me, he likes what Ive become, just as much as what I was. I have become a person to bestow blessing in his name in ways that someone else can't. I am new. And I am perfect in his sight.
So... you deserve to smile. Please wear a smile for me today. Show everyone that you are loved. And realize. That if anyone on earth deserves happiness. So do you. You arent an evil human being. You arent a mistake. You are just like me. Just like everyone else. Shattered. Lonely. Hurting. Beautiful. Lovely. Perfect. Gods got ya.
"There are better things in life than what's attacking you."
Anyway. Apparently I did very little in the way of talking about characters. Usually I have some sense of thought surrounding the dynamics. But apparently not today. I have a much stronger sense of love for large casts now. Ill say that. The dynamics can be perfection.
My favorite characters have got to be Gabe, Caleb/Tara, Judge, Deadeye and then the rest of the gang in some sort of order. And yes. Caleb and Tara count as one, both cause they are married and I cant decide which I like better. AND I REALLY HOPE THAT "In The Unbreaking"(Book two) HAS GABE GETTING A GAL TO DOTE ON CAUSE IT WOULD BE STINKIN ADORABLE AND HE DESERVES IT WITH HIS ENTIRE SOUL... And I really wanna ship him. *shrugs* I wear my shipper device on my sleeve when it comes to fiction.
The Shattered Ones is my third actual fantasy/Sci-Fi read. Yeah Ive read False Prince, Rangers Apprentice... but I kinda felt like this one was a little different. Im not really used to the idea of powers beyond normal human capacity.
That and swearing were my main turnoffs. Light swearing... sorta-ish? I dunno it just wasnt as in my face as some words are if ya know what I mean. Couple uses of Bas****s, Couple uses of D*mn, couple p***ed. Not exactly the greatest in the world. But coulda been worse.
Lets be straight. This is why I write. I write so that as many folks as possible can find the hope that I wanted for months. Its far less extreme than what any of the poor beans from Shattered Ones went through... But I know that my pain had a purpose. It was there for such a time as this.
The novel really backed up my thoughts on this. Your hurt can't define you or you will drown in it. The right reaction to breaking, to losing control is to give more than you take. I love how my musical list today led to comparison songs... Ill list those later...
Anywho... stay on track so long as you can find it Gilliford....
And no. My full name is Gilbert... but yeah
The Self Inflicted Outcast.
This arc hurt.
Gabe, the protagonist of the story has lived pretty much his entire life in fear of other people. "Don't get attached. They have each other and there's no room for you." Ive lived in this state for years. Largely due to the amount of times that people I though I could trust, people I thought were my people tore away. They left wounds. Deep ones and only recently have those wounds been healing.
For about four years I sat with this junk on my shoulders. Without telling anyone. Honestly without realizing it... All I knew is that the people werent to be trusted. I was scared to make new friends, to keep pouring my heart into other people because all they could do was suck it down.
I miss my old eight year old self. Always smiling. Always pleased as punch to see any familiar face. Always willing to break out and dance. To get the party going and still with that adorable ridiculous sense of pride that came with adult attentions and "Adult-like information or thoughts". Sometimes I wish I had me back. Im still not all here.
Whatever the case. Last two years really broke me. Multiple deaths that were very very close to my heart, directly preceded by another entire set of my trusted friends turning tail. I may have been sad and hurting before. But Id never been depressed.
I wanted human interaction. I wanted it so bad. But I couldnt bring myself to join a clique, or try to fit in, I just sat to the side, observing and waiting for someone to acknowledge my existence. At times, trying to prove myself so that someone else would validate me. Because... if they really want me... they should take it in stride. If I dont establish a connection, and the other party chooses me... Then they will be speaking from a sense of knowing who I am and trusting me... maybe even loving.
My thought process was: Ill never have something that I can always come back to... No... Itll be another time where I drain myself to death and then get thrown out the back seat. Unless someone chooses you. You'll always be suceptible.
Hence my outgoing, theatre kid romantic personality. I set out to be as genuine to myself as possible. To be the best person I could. I became something of a rule follower. I became who I am because of fear.
But here is the truth. Thats the past. That fear doesnt define me. And God tells me, he likes what Ive become, just as much as what I was. I have become a person to bestow blessing in his name in ways that someone else can't. I am new. And I am perfect in his sight.
So... you deserve to smile. Please wear a smile for me today. Show everyone that you are loved. And realize. That if anyone on earth deserves happiness. So do you. You arent an evil human being. You arent a mistake. You are just like me. Just like everyone else. Shattered. Lonely. Hurting. Beautiful. Lovely. Perfect. Gods got ya.
"There are better things in life than what's attacking you."
Anyway. Apparently I did very little in the way of talking about characters. Usually I have some sense of thought surrounding the dynamics. But apparently not today. I have a much stronger sense of love for large casts now. Ill say that. The dynamics can be perfection.
My favorite characters have got to be Gabe, Caleb/Tara, Judge, Deadeye and then the rest of the gang in some sort of order. And yes. Caleb and Tara count as one, both cause they are married and I cant decide which I like better. AND I REALLY HOPE THAT "In The Unbreaking"(Book two) HAS GABE GETTING A GAL TO DOTE ON CAUSE IT WOULD BE STINKIN ADORABLE AND HE DESERVES IT WITH HIS ENTIRE SOUL... And I really wanna ship him. *shrugs* I wear my shipper device on my sleeve when it comes to fiction.
The Shattered Ones is my third actual fantasy/Sci-Fi read. Yeah Ive read False Prince, Rangers Apprentice... but I kinda felt like this one was a little different. Im not really used to the idea of powers beyond normal human capacity.
That and swearing were my main turnoffs. Light swearing... sorta-ish? I dunno it just wasnt as in my face as some words are if ya know what I mean. Couple uses of Bas****s, Couple uses of D*mn, couple p***ed. Not exactly the greatest in the world. But coulda been worse.
March 31, 2026
So this book is wildly outside of what I traditionally read. I'm very much a fairytale fantasy reader. But this book ... oh my goodness, this is just so good. 😭 The characters felt so vividly real and so comforting. Like, if I were capable of all the techy and survival skills of these people, I'd want to be with them. The found family vibes are so strong in this book, and it's literally my favorite trope now (it's always been a favorite, but it might be THE favorite now). Like, Bandit and Gabe are so father-son coded I love it. 😭 And then I find out Gabe is neurodivergent, and it makes me love this book a million times more. 😍 There needs to be more books like this in the world, whether it be in this genre or others. Thank you for writing this book, Ms. Brigitte. (Also the pop culture references were AMAZING like The Last Airbender cabbages reference was unexpected but the best haha.)
Content Considerations: Language (The Ds, I think some Hs, and the illegitimate child one), PTSD and PTSD flashbacks, past death of family including a child, on-screen killing and sacrificial death , gang violence, gory descriptions of injuries and medical things, medical procedures and implants, superpowers called shattered powers and supers called Shattered, nightmarish monsters that commit violence, and romantic touch. I'm probably missing some things, but those are the major ones!
Content Considerations: Language (The Ds, I think some Hs, and the illegitimate child one), PTSD and PTSD flashbacks, past death of family including a child, on-screen killing and sacrificial death , gang violence, gory descriptions of injuries and medical things, medical procedures and implants, superpowers called shattered powers and supers called Shattered, nightmarish monsters that commit violence, and romantic touch. I'm probably missing some things, but those are the major ones!
February 20, 2025
As Jane Austin said, “if I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more.”
That’s how I feel about this book. I’ve tried, yet I’m physically incapable of writing a review that expresses how much I love this book and how much these characters mean to me.
They mean a lot. Incase you couldn’t tell by the Jane Austin quote. So I guess I’ll leave it at that. Read this book please. You will laugh. You will cry. You’ll be wrapped up into the arms of this cosy found family. This is hopeful dystopian at its finest. Trust me when I say you don’t want to miss it.
That’s how I feel about this book. I’ve tried, yet I’m physically incapable of writing a review that expresses how much I love this book and how much these characters mean to me.
They mean a lot. Incase you couldn’t tell by the Jane Austin quote. So I guess I’ll leave it at that. Read this book please. You will laugh. You will cry. You’ll be wrapped up into the arms of this cosy found family. This is hopeful dystopian at its finest. Trust me when I say you don’t want to miss it.
March 30, 2026
Rtc
Teenage Jordan would’ve absolutely killed for this book. Adult Jordan is settling into the fact that I’ve fallen in love with characters that slowly found their way into my heart and knows I only have two more books with them.
This is heartwarming and cozy despite being a dystopian, how Cromey does that is nothing except talent.
Teenage Jordan would’ve absolutely killed for this book. Adult Jordan is settling into the fact that I’ve fallen in love with characters that slowly found their way into my heart and knows I only have two more books with them.
This is heartwarming and cozy despite being a dystopian, how Cromey does that is nothing except talent.
July 15, 2025
Can I start off with a screech about how good this book was? Because this was a really good book.
A friend read this book and recommended it to me, saying how the main character Gabriel is very similar to my character Jayesh from After Atlantis. You know the type: the inexperienced kid, lonely, insecure, really wants to belong but doesn't know how? Yeah, I'm a sucker for that kind of character. Also, it's the aftermath of an alien invasion? It's post apoc instead of dystopian? And also found family? Shut up and take my money.
It starts out as a military outpost in the desert outside of Tucson. The aliens are gone, but a gang called the Blood Angels has moved in and is using alien tech against the military and civilians. Gabriel is dispatch, stares at screens all day, but is always writing down the stories from the Shattered he's working with. To him they're superheroes, the super powered people who drove off the aliens. He's also very good at what he does, and everyone in the base likes him, although he doesn't know it. But he so, so badly wants to belong. I wanted to hug him and wrap him in a soft blanket, except I know what happens to these kinds of characters and I was here for it.
Honestly, the author was kinder to Gabriel than I would have been. He didn't suffer nearly as much as I expected, and it has a good ending, although left open for more books. There's some loose ends that need further books to explore (like all those stories he's writing down at the end). But overall, this is a fun book with a group of superpowered characters working together and becoming friends, like the best kind of supernatural TV show. It's also inspired by XCOM 2, and I went OH, because I knew it was based on SOMEthing. I know a fanfic when I smell it because it has so much love poured into the characters. Highly recommend, will watch this author with great interest.
A friend read this book and recommended it to me, saying how the main character Gabriel is very similar to my character Jayesh from After Atlantis. You know the type: the inexperienced kid, lonely, insecure, really wants to belong but doesn't know how? Yeah, I'm a sucker for that kind of character. Also, it's the aftermath of an alien invasion? It's post apoc instead of dystopian? And also found family? Shut up and take my money.
It starts out as a military outpost in the desert outside of Tucson. The aliens are gone, but a gang called the Blood Angels has moved in and is using alien tech against the military and civilians. Gabriel is dispatch, stares at screens all day, but is always writing down the stories from the Shattered he's working with. To him they're superheroes, the super powered people who drove off the aliens. He's also very good at what he does, and everyone in the base likes him, although he doesn't know it. But he so, so badly wants to belong. I wanted to hug him and wrap him in a soft blanket, except I know what happens to these kinds of characters and I was here for it.
Honestly, the author was kinder to Gabriel than I would have been. He didn't suffer nearly as much as I expected, and it has a good ending, although left open for more books. There's some loose ends that need further books to explore (like all those stories he's writing down at the end). But overall, this is a fun book with a group of superpowered characters working together and becoming friends, like the best kind of supernatural TV show. It's also inspired by XCOM 2, and I went OH, because I knew it was based on SOMEthing. I know a fanfic when I smell it because it has so much love poured into the characters. Highly recommend, will watch this author with great interest.
August 1, 2025
Stories make me who I am, or rather, they show me parts of myself that have always been there, I just didn’t know it. And there’s a big part of me that was hiding in this book, in the main character Gabe. I related to his fear, his struggle to feel included, to overcome the feeling that people were just tolerating him, not that they actually liked him. But this crew, man; they did! I love them all so much, and their interactions are the best.
The sharing of stories, of memories good and bad, to bolster each other up and demonstrate that none of them are alone… It’s a beautiful kind of community, of found family, and it filled an ache in my soul. It’s similar to the reason I write, and read—to know that I’m not alone. To share pieces of my heart with others, and take pieces of theirs into mine.
And this story didn’t just make me feel things, it’s a full ride! We’ve got pulse-pounding fights, explosions, blood, good cooking, and fabulous character development and growth! Whew! What more could you want?? I’m in love with these characters, and this world—/their/ world—and I can’t wait to see more of it!
The sharing of stories, of memories good and bad, to bolster each other up and demonstrate that none of them are alone… It’s a beautiful kind of community, of found family, and it filled an ache in my soul. It’s similar to the reason I write, and read—to know that I’m not alone. To share pieces of my heart with others, and take pieces of theirs into mine.
And this story didn’t just make me feel things, it’s a full ride! We’ve got pulse-pounding fights, explosions, blood, good cooking, and fabulous character development and growth! Whew! What more could you want?? I’m in love with these characters, and this world—/their/ world—and I can’t wait to see more of it!
December 19, 2024
A young man with a broken past tries to find his place among legends...
I'm not sure how a sci-fi stole my heart, but this one did. Even with the large cast, every character was unique and relatable, and I fell in love with each one. The development of their relationships throughout the story give this book such strength.
I also loved the vivid desert setting, the bits of Spanish, Gabe's journey from fear and isolation to courage and trust, the banter and camaraderie, the slow, sweet moments, the heart-pounding action...well, pretty much everything!
This book was so refreshingly wholesome in the best possible way.
I'm not sure how a sci-fi stole my heart, but this one did. Even with the large cast, every character was unique and relatable, and I fell in love with each one. The development of their relationships throughout the story give this book such strength.
I also loved the vivid desert setting, the bits of Spanish, Gabe's journey from fear and isolation to courage and trust, the banter and camaraderie, the slow, sweet moments, the heart-pounding action...well, pretty much everything!
This book was so refreshingly wholesome in the best possible way.
March 18, 2026
Nuuuu it’s over 😭
Mah goodness, this BOOK.
I’m gonna be honest, it took me a little bit to get into it. The beginning felt uncomfortable, like the first few episodes of a new TV show where you’re just trying to find your footing within the story. This is not the author’s fault, simply my perception of it.
I don’t know when the switch happened, but I distinctly remember a reading session where I was like “OH yeah, I really like this book”. It was probably when I’d warmed up to the characters and world more. And once I had, I saw it for the gem it was.
The found family in this was not only amazingly sweet but also so realistic. While they fought battles together, overcame hard things, and had their fair share of arguments, they also just did life together which I loved. And the way all the members accepted Gabriel into their family while he was trying to stay on the sidelines gahhhhhhhhh
Now about the characters: I mean, they’re all awesome in different ways. One thing I remember is being sort of amused at how the pink streak in Deadeye’s hair was mentioned at least once every chapter for the first like, six chapters XD it kind of annoyed me then but now I’m fine with it. Also I kind of wish Judge was developed more. I loved his brotherly bond with Gabriel and wished his backstory and personality could have been fleshed out more cause it took me a while to like him. (I did like him at the end, I just think that plotpoint could have been more powerful if I’d gotten to see more of him).
Caleb and Tara are so awesome. Srsly so cute. I think fiction should have more married couples as primary characters because that’s the best kind of romance imo.
Also something I wanted to note is that Gabriel was a fantastic main character. I sometimes get annoyed with MCs since I’m stuck in their head for so long, but Gabriel was just…a rly nice POV. He was chill and quiet and the constant watcher and writer and I very much enjoyed that.
Slight CW for language, but it’s not a lot and no really bad words (it was just sort of unexpected to me cause I think this is a Christian author. No using of the Lord’s name in vain though from what I remember) also there is some violence, which is to be expected. There was nothing gratuitous, which I appreciated.
I bought this book without reading it beforehand (mostly cause I didn’t rly have a way to read it) I had pretty high expectations and I was not disappointed. Now I rly want to read the next one.
Mah goodness, this BOOK.
I’m gonna be honest, it took me a little bit to get into it. The beginning felt uncomfortable, like the first few episodes of a new TV show where you’re just trying to find your footing within the story. This is not the author’s fault, simply my perception of it.
I don’t know when the switch happened, but I distinctly remember a reading session where I was like “OH yeah, I really like this book”. It was probably when I’d warmed up to the characters and world more. And once I had, I saw it for the gem it was.
The found family in this was not only amazingly sweet but also so realistic. While they fought battles together, overcame hard things, and had their fair share of arguments, they also just did life together which I loved. And the way all the members accepted Gabriel into their family while he was trying to stay on the sidelines gahhhhhhhhh
Now about the characters: I mean, they’re all awesome in different ways. One thing I remember is being sort of amused at how the pink streak in Deadeye’s hair was mentioned at least once every chapter for the first like, six chapters XD it kind of annoyed me then but now I’m fine with it. Also I kind of wish Judge was developed more. I loved his brotherly bond with Gabriel and wished his backstory and personality could have been fleshed out more cause it took me a while to like him. (I did like him at the end, I just think that plotpoint could have been more powerful if I’d gotten to see more of him).
Caleb and Tara are so awesome. Srsly so cute. I think fiction should have more married couples as primary characters because that’s the best kind of romance imo.
Also something I wanted to note is that Gabriel was a fantastic main character. I sometimes get annoyed with MCs since I’m stuck in their head for so long, but Gabriel was just…a rly nice POV. He was chill and quiet and the constant watcher and writer and I very much enjoyed that.
Slight CW for language, but it’s not a lot and no really bad words (it was just sort of unexpected to me cause I think this is a Christian author. No using of the Lord’s name in vain though from what I remember) also there is some violence, which is to be expected. There was nothing gratuitous, which I appreciated.
I bought this book without reading it beforehand (mostly cause I didn’t rly have a way to read it) I had pretty high expectations and I was not disappointed. Now I rly want to read the next one.
January 1, 2025
Oftentimes, I love the characters in books. Sometimes I wish I could meet them in my world. Rarely have I EVER wanted to hop into a fantasy world and live there with the characters myself (especially if there is a high probability that I would die)...
And yet, these characters are so amazing as people that that is exactly what I want to do with this one.
This story seriously includes the incredible comradery of a good BJJ gym, a good understanding of "good" and "evil", displays of truest love, fantastic character depth, realistic depictions of injuries and human limits in general, loads of hope, deep personal conflict, good-natured humor, great family dynamics, and descriptions that set it all in a world I have no trouble believing in.
Beyond the tropes, the writing is excellent. I'm sure improvement could have been made SOMEWHERE, but I really can't think of where it would be. I laughed, I gasped, and I even cried for a bit there. I could see it all, I could feel it all... oh man, this was so so epic.
As far as content warnings go:
The characters swore a lot (would honestly have been weird if they didn't), but no actual swear words that I remember actually made it into the text that I remember. There is ZERO smut at all. I remember no graphic gore.
With that being said, many many people die in this. Mostly soldiers we never actually meet, but people nonetheless. There are memories of traumatic experiences, displays of violence, blood, that kind of thing. Though violence was not written for its own sake, but rather that of tha plot, it might be rather intense for those who do not do well with low levels of tolerence to such things.
I personally draw the line at a certain point when the violence in books gets too rough, but it was fine for me here.
All that to say this book is pretty clean.
The only thing about The Shattered Ones that I really did not like is the fact that I have to wait for book 2. I feel like I NEED to know what happens. There are some things that I want to see resolved ASAP. I got so many answers in book 1, but then so many questions that I cannot have answers for until book 2.
Anyway. Read this book if you don't mind being sucked into something fantastic that you may accidentally binge read in one day. I need more people to know about this book. There is seriously a sad lack of people for me to squeal about this with.
And yet, these characters are so amazing as people that that is exactly what I want to do with this one.
This story seriously includes the incredible comradery of a good BJJ gym, a good understanding of "good" and "evil", displays of truest love, fantastic character depth, realistic depictions of injuries and human limits in general, loads of hope, deep personal conflict, good-natured humor, great family dynamics, and descriptions that set it all in a world I have no trouble believing in.
Beyond the tropes, the writing is excellent. I'm sure improvement could have been made SOMEWHERE, but I really can't think of where it would be. I laughed, I gasped, and I even cried for a bit there. I could see it all, I could feel it all... oh man, this was so so epic.
As far as content warnings go:
The characters swore a lot (would honestly have been weird if they didn't), but no actual swear words that I remember actually made it into the text that I remember. There is ZERO smut at all. I remember no graphic gore.
With that being said, many many people die in this. Mostly soldiers we never actually meet, but people nonetheless. There are memories of traumatic experiences, displays of violence, blood, that kind of thing. Though violence was not written for its own sake, but rather that of tha plot, it might be rather intense for those who do not do well with low levels of tolerence to such things.
I personally draw the line at a certain point when the violence in books gets too rough, but it was fine for me here.
All that to say this book is pretty clean.
The only thing about The Shattered Ones that I really did not like is the fact that I have to wait for book 2. I feel like I NEED to know what happens. There are some things that I want to see resolved ASAP. I got so many answers in book 1, but then so many questions that I cannot have answers for until book 2.
Anyway. Read this book if you don't mind being sucked into something fantastic that you may accidentally binge read in one day. I need more people to know about this book. There is seriously a sad lack of people for me to squeal about this with.
July 21, 2025
This is absolutely one of the best books I have ever read. It started slowly, but bit by bit I grew more and more attached to the story and the characters until I was officially obsessed. Basically the book and I were in a slow burn. And it's just. So good.
The location is so VIVID and beautifully described, and I adore all parts of it. It's so naturally described, you fall in love with the desert by the end.
The plot was fascinating—post alien apocalypse? With the warriors of the first fight going up against gangs and the remnants of the first war? Sign me UP. The Shattereds powers are really interesting, and I love how there's an even balance between Shattered and just regular characters.
Speaking of characters THE CHARACTERS. I AM OBSESSED I could spend this entire review ranting about them. Gabriel was painfully relatable to me on some levels—in the starting, when he doubts his place with his crew, and thinks they wouldn't really want him around? That HURT, and I love how much of this book was spent proving him wrong.
Also, Bandit. The Dad of All Time. I am obsessed with him. But also Caleb and Tara my beloved power couple and Deadeye the LEGEND and Josephine is so sweet and Logan is just some guy but I would die for him and JUDGE. I love Judge. He's amazing, and a little gremlin in the best way.
Another thing I love about this book is that, while there is romance (and I am DEEPLY obsessed with it) the core of this book is about family. About Gabriel's arc of finding a new family and trusting in those bonds he's building. It's absolutely beautiful, and exactly the kind of book for me.
Ahhh, what else is there to say? So much, if I'm being honest. I cried multiple times, ESPECIALLY in Stage Nineteen. I am truly obsessed, and I cannot WAIT for more of this series or from this author!!
The location is so VIVID and beautifully described, and I adore all parts of it. It's so naturally described, you fall in love with the desert by the end.
The plot was fascinating—post alien apocalypse? With the warriors of the first fight going up against gangs and the remnants of the first war? Sign me UP. The Shattereds powers are really interesting, and I love how there's an even balance between Shattered and just regular characters.
Speaking of characters THE CHARACTERS. I AM OBSESSED I could spend this entire review ranting about them. Gabriel was painfully relatable to me on some levels—in the starting, when he doubts his place with his crew, and thinks they wouldn't really want him around? That HURT, and I love how much of this book was spent proving him wrong.
Also, Bandit. The Dad of All Time. I am obsessed with him. But also Caleb and Tara my beloved power couple and Deadeye the LEGEND and Josephine is so sweet and Logan is just some guy but I would die for him and JUDGE. I love Judge. He's amazing, and a little gremlin in the best way.
Another thing I love about this book is that, while there is romance (and I am DEEPLY obsessed with it) the core of this book is about family. About Gabriel's arc of finding a new family and trusting in those bonds he's building. It's absolutely beautiful, and exactly the kind of book for me.
Ahhh, what else is there to say? So much, if I'm being honest. I cried multiple times, ESPECIALLY in Stage Nineteen. I am truly obsessed, and I cannot WAIT for more of this series or from this author!!
October 24, 2024
"Heartwarming" probably isn't the first word that comes to mind when you think of the post-apocalyptic genre, but The Shattered Ones might just change that. Don't get me wrong, it's still packed with action and set in a fascinating world--Earth struggling to pick herself up after routing a brutal alien occupation. But on a deeper level, this story is about finding a reason to hope against all odds, and embracing love and community amidst loss and grief, about pushing past the fear to protect what matters most.
While many books claim the "found family" trope, it's safe to say this one really means it. Cromey was right to claim The Bad Batch as a comp title and the whole book reads like a Tell Tale video game: immersive, raw, filled with characters you don't want to leave behind at the end.
Although I did struggle a bit with all the central characters (5-7 at any given time), the book does have a handy cast list at the back and only had to reference it a couple times. The pacing wavers between a casual stride and an all-out sprint. This felt more video-gamey to me than annoying. And trust me, those action scenes *really* make up for any lagging in between. The balance between action and dialogue feels pretty natural overall.
This book was a 4.5 ⭐ for me and I can't wait to see what's next for Gabe and his family!
While many books claim the "found family" trope, it's safe to say this one really means it. Cromey was right to claim The Bad Batch as a comp title and the whole book reads like a Tell Tale video game: immersive, raw, filled with characters you don't want to leave behind at the end.
Although I did struggle a bit with all the central characters (5-7 at any given time), the book does have a handy cast list at the back and only had to reference it a couple times. The pacing wavers between a casual stride and an all-out sprint. This felt more video-gamey to me than annoying. And trust me, those action scenes *really* make up for any lagging in between. The balance between action and dialogue feels pretty natural overall.
This book was a 4.5 ⭐ for me and I can't wait to see what's next for Gabe and his family!
December 30, 2024
Oh gosh my heart 😭
This book was so good, I absolutely loved it. The found family was found family-ing and I love every single one of the Base 36 main crew 🥹 Judge is my favoriteeee
The world building is super cool, I haven’t read many post-apocalyptic books but if they’re all like this then I need more. The Shattered powers are really fun ahhh
And THE LORE
The veteran heroes’ history
AHHHH
Oh also I did NOT see the one major plot twist coming, which is really funny bc I feel like it should have been obvious but I was totally shocked lolol which was amazing
I wish some specific members of the found family had more interactions and uhhhh my heart may have gotten ripped out at least once. But like I love this book. So much. This is, like, exactly what I want in a book. Pls go read it. Thank you.
Content warnings: I would call this PG-13, there’s some cursing and definitely lots of violence lolol but the tiny parts that could be considered romance are totally clean
This book was so good, I absolutely loved it. The found family was found family-ing and I love every single one of the Base 36 main crew 🥹 Judge is my favoriteeee
The world building is super cool, I haven’t read many post-apocalyptic books but if they’re all like this then I need more. The Shattered powers are really fun ahhh
And THE LORE
The veteran heroes’ history
AHHHH
Oh also I did NOT see the one major plot twist coming, which is really funny bc I feel like it should have been obvious but I was totally shocked lolol which was amazing
I wish some specific members of the found family had more interactions and uhhhh my heart may have gotten ripped out at least once. But like I love this book. So much. This is, like, exactly what I want in a book. Pls go read it. Thank you.
Content warnings: I would call this PG-13, there’s some cursing and definitely lots of violence lolol but the tiny parts that could be considered romance are totally clean
September 25, 2024
This book pulled me out of a reading slump and made me rediscover my love of reading. Finished in two days (it’s that gripping!), I was immediately ready for a reread. The characters were very well thought out and I grew to care about each one. The world building was fantastic! I definitely recommend!
After I finish a reread, I will come back with a more in-depth review.
After I finish a reread, I will come back with a more in-depth review.
October 24, 2024
This was fantastically fun. It has been a long time since I have read sci-fi, and this was reminiscent of my good ol' college days binging Aaron Allston X-Wing novels. Full of tension and laughter. I haven't decided who my favorite is yet but I now have a guppy in my aquarium named Judge. :D
March 1, 2025
Absolutely Amazing
I have no idea why I waited so long to read this. This book is epicness itself. From start to finish, it's a wild ride.
I only hope the next book isn't too far behind.
I have no idea why I waited so long to read this. This book is epicness itself. From start to finish, it's a wild ride.
I only hope the next book isn't too far behind.
October 30, 2024
Endorsement: "Blending apocalyptic sci-fi with the superpowers of Stranger Things, Cromey has given us a found-family team of combative comradery that you'll be cheering for from page one."
January 28, 2026
Great setting, awesome concepts, and a strong group dynamic!
It didn’t take long for me to get into this one. I loved how Gabriel cared about listening to and preserving people’s stories. It was so sweet watching his walls come down as his heroes became more like family. I especially enjoyed his relationship with Bandit. 🥹 That said, I would’ve liked to get to know some of the characters a little better than I did.
One twist really caught me off guard. (In hindsight, I probably should’ve seen it coming.) Another thing, I refuse to believe actually happened. Hoping book 2 will prove me right on that…
The climax felt a bit rushed, but it did leave me eager to start the next book. Definitely recommend for readers who crave sci-fi/post-apocalyptic with a nice balance between action and character development!
It didn’t take long for me to get into this one. I loved how Gabriel cared about listening to and preserving people’s stories. It was so sweet watching his walls come down as his heroes became more like family. I especially enjoyed his relationship with Bandit. 🥹 That said, I would’ve liked to get to know some of the characters a little better than I did.
One twist really caught me off guard. (In hindsight, I probably should’ve seen it coming.) Another thing, I refuse to believe actually happened. Hoping book 2 will prove me right on that…
The climax felt a bit rushed, but it did leave me eager to start the next book. Definitely recommend for readers who crave sci-fi/post-apocalyptic with a nice balance between action and character development!
March 12, 2026
I’ve put off this review because I wasn't sure what to write. Baseline, I loved this book. I’ve been realizing that military sci-fi/ post apocalypse is apparently a favorite genre for me. I really enjoyed the setting and learning the history of what had happened (though there are still a lot of unknowns probably coming in the next two books). The powers were cool and the tech interesting (I am not techy at all so don’t look to me for “accuracy”, but I thought it was cool).
I loved Gabriel, I liked how he gathered and wrote down stories. It hurt as I learned more about his backstory and flaws but I liked seeing how he grew.
Caleb was another favorite. He is gentle, kind, strong, and protective — my favorite kind of character.
This book has so much about personal worth and belonging. The team cares deeply about their home and the people that live there, and I love that they stand strong and try to do what is right no matter what. The growing friendships and found family are beautiful.
There are lots of sweet moments and lots of tension and danger. Sadness, happiness, wanting to throw the book, cheering when things went well. I loved this book. I’m very excited to read book two.
In this book:
Gang violence
Alien invasion
War aftermath/consequences
Superpowers
Found family
Fights and battles (against people and alien creatures)
I loved Gabriel, I liked how he gathered and wrote down stories. It hurt as I learned more about his backstory and flaws but I liked seeing how he grew.
Caleb was another favorite. He is gentle, kind, strong, and protective — my favorite kind of character.
This book has so much about personal worth and belonging. The team cares deeply about their home and the people that live there, and I love that they stand strong and try to do what is right no matter what. The growing friendships and found family are beautiful.
There are lots of sweet moments and lots of tension and danger. Sadness, happiness, wanting to throw the book, cheering when things went well. I loved this book. I’m very excited to read book two.
In this book:
Gang violence
Alien invasion
War aftermath/consequences
Superpowers
Found family
Fights and battles (against people and alien creatures)
November 12, 2025
My rating: 3.75/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐
BOOKISH YAYS!
*The cover. I cannot get over how lovely it is! I’ve given up not judging books by their covers at this point. A book’s cover is it’s first impression, and this one made a very good impression on me!
*The character development. There are 8 main characters in this book and several more minor ones. Sometimes with a large cast, especially in the fantasy genre, it is hard not to only focus on your main character, and the others recede to the background or may display stereotypes of certain people/behaviors. (the villain, the sidekick, the mentor, etc) However, each main character had a distinct personality and voice. Gabe, Bandit, and Tara were my favorite characters by far!
*The worldbuilding was very complex and well-rounded. Worldbuilding (or lack thereof) can make or break a story, and I enjoyed certain aspects in The Shattered Ones such as the sci-fi desert vibes, the way characters interacted with technology, and the layers of history and backstory which are revealed throughout.
*Gabe's first-person narrative. There were times when I felt like he fell into a bit of the stereotypical “I’m an orphan; therefore, I don’t deserve love/I can’t let myself care for others” YA protagonist, overall, he had a good story arc and raw voice which pulled me in. He had a good arc as well, his journey taking him to a place where he had to confront the lies he believed and step up to face his fears.
*Caleb & Tara’s relationship as husband and wife was so sweet. Under the joking, you could see they deeply cared for each other. They complemented (and complimented) each other so well. I wanted them to be able to go back to their quiet, safe life so badly!
*The Shattered abilities were cool! For some reason, it reminded me of Star Wars?1
BOOKISH OKAYS:
*While I loved the friendships present throughout this book (especially Caleb & Tara’s and Bandit & Gabriel’s), I had a hard time with the fact that 80% of the friendship we see is people “bantering” or using sarcasm. There were serious moments, but they felt too overshadowed.
*Some of the worldbuilding felt a bit overwhelming, but this may be because I haven’t read a lot of sci-fi or dystopian stories. From the ending, it seems that the author will write another book and so some questions may be answered there.
*I wish there had been more of a faith element to this book. I feel it could have helped develop several of the characters. At one point, a character is mentioned as praying his friends are safe. But we never see Who he prays to, and it’s never mentioned again.
BOOKISH NAYS:
*Swearing. Okay, this was the main reason for the lowered rating. I went into this book expecting a clean, YA read. And for the most part, it delivered. Now, characters do say things like “stupid” and “idiot” which I personally don’t care for. There are also mentions of d*** several times as well as how YA fiction usually covers language - by referring to it without the words - “cursed,” “swore a blue streak,” “I didn’t know the words but they must have been swearing,” etc. This seems to be the main reaction of the adult characters in The Shattered Ones whenever they are mad. One character in particular seemed to have this reaction. And towards the end, this ramped up (b*****d, p****d off, etc. 😭) It felt as though once you were invested enough in the story to keep going to the end (because it does ramp up, and I was very invested) the characters could speak freer because you would ignore it to get to the end? So that was a bit of a let-down.
OVERALL…
This was an interesting read. I wish there hadn’t been instances of swearing, as I probably would have given it a 4 or 4.5 star rating then. Apart from that, I am glad I read it. It reminded me that I haven’t read much sci-fi outside of CS Lewis’ Space Trilogy!
BOOKISH YAYS!
*The cover. I cannot get over how lovely it is! I’ve given up not judging books by their covers at this point. A book’s cover is it’s first impression, and this one made a very good impression on me!
*The character development. There are 8 main characters in this book and several more minor ones. Sometimes with a large cast, especially in the fantasy genre, it is hard not to only focus on your main character, and the others recede to the background or may display stereotypes of certain people/behaviors. (the villain, the sidekick, the mentor, etc) However, each main character had a distinct personality and voice. Gabe, Bandit, and Tara were my favorite characters by far!
*The worldbuilding was very complex and well-rounded. Worldbuilding (or lack thereof) can make or break a story, and I enjoyed certain aspects in The Shattered Ones such as the sci-fi desert vibes, the way characters interacted with technology, and the layers of history and backstory which are revealed throughout.
*Gabe's first-person narrative. There were times when I felt like he fell into a bit of the stereotypical “I’m an orphan; therefore, I don’t deserve love/I can’t let myself care for others” YA protagonist, overall, he had a good story arc and raw voice which pulled me in. He had a good arc as well, his journey taking him to a place where he had to confront the lies he believed and step up to face his fears.
*Caleb & Tara’s relationship as husband and wife was so sweet. Under the joking, you could see they deeply cared for each other. They complemented (and complimented) each other so well. I wanted them to be able to go back to their quiet, safe life so badly!
*The Shattered abilities were cool! For some reason, it reminded me of Star Wars?1
BOOKISH OKAYS:
*While I loved the friendships present throughout this book (especially Caleb & Tara’s and Bandit & Gabriel’s), I had a hard time with the fact that 80% of the friendship we see is people “bantering” or using sarcasm. There were serious moments, but they felt too overshadowed.
*Some of the worldbuilding felt a bit overwhelming, but this may be because I haven’t read a lot of sci-fi or dystopian stories. From the ending, it seems that the author will write another book and so some questions may be answered there.
*I wish there had been more of a faith element to this book. I feel it could have helped develop several of the characters. At one point, a character is mentioned as praying his friends are safe. But we never see Who he prays to, and it’s never mentioned again.
BOOKISH NAYS:
*Swearing. Okay, this was the main reason for the lowered rating. I went into this book expecting a clean, YA read. And for the most part, it delivered. Now, characters do say things like “stupid” and “idiot” which I personally don’t care for. There are also mentions of d*** several times as well as how YA fiction usually covers language - by referring to it without the words - “cursed,” “swore a blue streak,” “I didn’t know the words but they must have been swearing,” etc. This seems to be the main reaction of the adult characters in The Shattered Ones whenever they are mad. One character in particular seemed to have this reaction. And towards the end, this ramped up (b*****d, p****d off, etc. 😭) It felt as though once you were invested enough in the story to keep going to the end (because it does ramp up, and I was very invested) the characters could speak freer because you would ignore it to get to the end? So that was a bit of a let-down.
OVERALL…
This was an interesting read. I wish there hadn’t been instances of swearing, as I probably would have given it a 4 or 4.5 star rating then. Apart from that, I am glad I read it. It reminded me that I haven’t read much sci-fi outside of CS Lewis’ Space Trilogy!
September 5, 2024
The Shattered Ones is an exciting dystopian sci-fi adventure with themes of found family and self-sacrifice. I devoured it in one sitting.
Despite being ravaged and abandoned by aliens, the earth remains habitable for humans whose greatest enemy is still, as it always has been, themselves. Due to alien processes called "fields" and "dampening," which were not fully explained, some humans have broken through a wall, or "shattered," to access new powers and abilities. While the new government tries to maintain order, a gang called The Blood Angels vies for control of the American southwest, specifically Arizona. When the higher ups turn a blind eye, the small, local defense team determines to protect the people they know and love. I mean, who else would want dusty, dry Arizona anyway? If they don't stand up for their homeland, no one will.
The story is told in first person through the eyes of a young recruit with a traumatic past. Gabriel's childhood losses forced him to turn to books to escape, and he becomes a collector of stories. Through his curiosity, the reader discovers much of the history of the other characters and the world as it now exists. How this talent evolves as his circumstances change shows his growth and maturation as a reluctant hero.
Many characters are introduced in the first couple of chapters, but once I got them straight, I loved all of them. There are homey, domestic moments interspersed with action scenes, gunfights, leftover alien spawn, and training sessions. There are light hints at romance, but nothing more than hand holding on the page. Rare instances of swearing. Much death, and some blood, but it's not really gory as super powers are used to take out the bulk of the enemy.
If you ever wondered what earth would be like after War of the Worlds; if you would like Starship Troopers without the bugs, love triangle, or space travel; or a dystopian version of the Hobbit without elves and with aliens instead of orcs, then you would like this book. This is not my normal genre, so I'm reaching for comps, but it makes me want to read more, and I will definitely check out the next book.
Despite being ravaged and abandoned by aliens, the earth remains habitable for humans whose greatest enemy is still, as it always has been, themselves. Due to alien processes called "fields" and "dampening," which were not fully explained, some humans have broken through a wall, or "shattered," to access new powers and abilities. While the new government tries to maintain order, a gang called The Blood Angels vies for control of the American southwest, specifically Arizona. When the higher ups turn a blind eye, the small, local defense team determines to protect the people they know and love. I mean, who else would want dusty, dry Arizona anyway? If they don't stand up for their homeland, no one will.
The story is told in first person through the eyes of a young recruit with a traumatic past. Gabriel's childhood losses forced him to turn to books to escape, and he becomes a collector of stories. Through his curiosity, the reader discovers much of the history of the other characters and the world as it now exists. How this talent evolves as his circumstances change shows his growth and maturation as a reluctant hero.
Many characters are introduced in the first couple of chapters, but once I got them straight, I loved all of them. There are homey, domestic moments interspersed with action scenes, gunfights, leftover alien spawn, and training sessions. There are light hints at romance, but nothing more than hand holding on the page. Rare instances of swearing. Much death, and some blood, but it's not really gory as super powers are used to take out the bulk of the enemy.
If you ever wondered what earth would be like after War of the Worlds; if you would like Starship Troopers without the bugs, love triangle, or space travel; or a dystopian version of the Hobbit without elves and with aliens instead of orcs, then you would like this book. This is not my normal genre, so I'm reaching for comps, but it makes me want to read more, and I will definitely check out the next book.
September 24, 2024
You want dystopian sci-fi, action/adventure with dashing heroes? This is it. You want found-family warm fuzzies like Firefly? Hit this up. Sick of grim-dark? You’re at the right place.
I appreciate the uniquely millennial perspective of being a kid when the world shattered, and coming of age when most of the battles have been fought and you’re surrounded by fading heroes, disillusionment, division, and confusion. The world is incredibly real: difficult with shades of grey, and an intensely loyal grounding in the American Southwest. But somehow, the characters make it wholesome; genuinely trying to do the right thing with the crap hand they’ve been dealt, and building a found family that reminds me a little of Firefly with their warm-hearted shenanigans.
The MC has a lot of growing up to do, but he gets there, and there are so many delightful characters to fall in love with.
I appreciate the uniquely millennial perspective of being a kid when the world shattered, and coming of age when most of the battles have been fought and you’re surrounded by fading heroes, disillusionment, division, and confusion. The world is incredibly real: difficult with shades of grey, and an intensely loyal grounding in the American Southwest. But somehow, the characters make it wholesome; genuinely trying to do the right thing with the crap hand they’ve been dealt, and building a found family that reminds me a little of Firefly with their warm-hearted shenanigans.
The MC has a lot of growing up to do, but he gets there, and there are so many delightful characters to fall in love with.
September 26, 2024
SO GOOD!
I definitely enjoyed this book! Great worldbuilding, lovable characters, strong themes, and loads of believable action! I found The Shattered Ones from a book trailer on social media that one of my favorite authors shared, and I knew right away that it was going on my TBR. Having read it now, I’m so, so glad I saw it and saved it. Can’t wait for the next one!!
I definitely enjoyed this book! Great worldbuilding, lovable characters, strong themes, and loads of believable action! I found The Shattered Ones from a book trailer on social media that one of my favorite authors shared, and I knew right away that it was going on my TBR. Having read it now, I’m so, so glad I saw it and saved it. Can’t wait for the next one!!
June 15, 2025
A super unique sci-fi book loaded with action, superpowers, and found family. It took me awhile to get into, mostly trying to figure out who was who and what was happening, but I eventually got into things.
I love the setting. The Arizona atmosphere threw me right into the story, and the post-apocalyptic vibes were divine.
The Shattered Ones tackles themes like grief, strength, teamwork, and moving forward. It’s a powerful story, and I hope there’s more coming soon!
I love the setting. The Arizona atmosphere threw me right into the story, and the post-apocalyptic vibes were divine.
The Shattered Ones tackles themes like grief, strength, teamwork, and moving forward. It’s a powerful story, and I hope there’s more coming soon!
Read
March 17, 2026This came highly recommended from a friend of mine and I absolutely loved the found family vibes! I can definitely see where influences like Halo and The Bad Batch came in.
Sensitive topics/content:
-gang violence
-loss of loved ones
-infrequent language
Representation:
-disabled
-Latinx
Sensitive topics/content:
-gang violence
-loss of loved ones
-infrequent language
Representation:
-disabled
-Latinx
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews