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Divided
Nothing exciting ever happens in the woods… until a mysterious blue light swallows a girl whole.
After six years of searching in vain for the missing girl, Arisanna Lunagarde is back in the woods. This time, ropes of fog drag her to Alterria—a hidden town where nearly everyone has a magical gift.
“Outsiders cannot survive in our world.”
As an Outsider, Ari shouldn’t be able to survive more than a few hours, but the fact that Alterria has no effect on her draws too much suspicion. Ari discovers that her miraculous survival stems from connections she never knew existed, and as her own gift appears, those connections paint a target on her back.
“I was supposed to keep you safe.”
Torren—Ari’s first Alterrian friend, the boy who makes her heart race, and the only person who can help her get home—is imprisoned. Now alone, Ari must save Torren, and as her feelings for him grow, she soon discovers that going home will endanger everyone she loves, both inside and outside Alterria.
"Magical, mysterious, and filled with heart-racing twists, Divided launches a captivating YA fantasy where one girl’s forbidden presence in a hidden world could unravel everything—perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone and City of Bones craving adventure, romance, and secrets worth dying for." – NewInBooks.com
After six years of searching in vain for the missing girl, Arisanna Lunagarde is back in the woods. This time, ropes of fog drag her to Alterria—a hidden town where nearly everyone has a magical gift.
“Outsiders cannot survive in our world.”
As an Outsider, Ari shouldn’t be able to survive more than a few hours, but the fact that Alterria has no effect on her draws too much suspicion. Ari discovers that her miraculous survival stems from connections she never knew existed, and as her own gift appears, those connections paint a target on her back.
“I was supposed to keep you safe.”
Torren—Ari’s first Alterrian friend, the boy who makes her heart race, and the only person who can help her get home—is imprisoned. Now alone, Ari must save Torren, and as her feelings for him grow, she soon discovers that going home will endanger everyone she loves, both inside and outside Alterria.
"Magical, mysterious, and filled with heart-racing twists, Divided launches a captivating YA fantasy where one girl’s forbidden presence in a hidden world could unravel everything—perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone and City of Bones craving adventure, romance, and secrets worth dying for." – NewInBooks.com
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2024
4 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 29, 2024
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
🔮29/11/24
somewhere between 3 to 3.75 stars. RTC soon. This was too YA for me. I have mixed feelings about this one, so let me go figure out how I feel.
🔮26/11/24
The cover is so gorgeous, and the prose sounds so refreshing from what I read usually!😍💖 Thankyou so much to co-author Aimee, for reaching out to me and sending this ARC despite many download failures! Hoping this delivers 🥰🤞🏻
🔮29/11/24
somewhere between 3 to 3.75 stars. RTC soon. This was too YA for me. I have mixed feelings about this one, so let me go figure out how I feel.
🔮26/11/24
The cover is so gorgeous, and the prose sounds so refreshing from what I read usually!😍💖 Thankyou so much to co-author Aimee, for reaching out to me and sending this ARC despite many download failures! Hoping this delivers 🥰🤞🏻
October 21, 2024
This is a very fun, fast-paced YA fantasy book. If it wasn't for classes, I would have finished it the day I started it.. that's how invested I was! Unfortunately, I got swamped with school work last week and wasn't able to read a lot.
Divided is a YA fantasy with a romance subplot. Since this is the first of a series, there was quite some world building and explaining the magic system(mostly in the beginning). Yes, you read that correctly.. magic whoop whoop 🎉. I personally really liked the gifts. I thought that the world building was quite unique, interesting, and fun!
I absolutely loved the characters, their friendships, and chemistry. The found family in this warmed my heart ❤️.
Let me tell you about the romance. Yes, it is a subplot. But it really added to the story (in my humble opinion). It is a second chance, forbidden, soulmate romance (I KNOW *insert excited squeel*).
Some other tropes that I really enjoyed in this book are: the chosen one, hidden identities, and the twist they gave to amnesia.
Spice Rating: 0.5/ 5 (only great kissing 🤭)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
I highly recommend Divided by Aimee Aumock and Missy Kampa 💚✨️!
Divided is a YA fantasy with a romance subplot. Since this is the first of a series, there was quite some world building and explaining the magic system(mostly in the beginning). Yes, you read that correctly.. magic whoop whoop 🎉. I personally really liked the gifts. I thought that the world building was quite unique, interesting, and fun!
I absolutely loved the characters, their friendships, and chemistry. The found family in this warmed my heart ❤️.
Let me tell you about the romance. Yes, it is a subplot. But it really added to the story (in my humble opinion). It is a second chance, forbidden, soulmate romance (I KNOW *insert excited squeel*).
Some other tropes that I really enjoyed in this book are: the chosen one, hidden identities, and the twist they gave to amnesia.
Spice Rating: 0.5/ 5 (only great kissing 🤭)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
I highly recommend Divided by Aimee Aumock and Missy Kampa 💚✨️!
October 19, 2024
Ari and Torren/Kai’s story was totally unique to a lot of the YA books I’ve encountered. Sometimes you’ll find yourself reading a book and be like, I’ve read this storyline before, but Ari’s world and discovery of her powers had an adventurous, loving, and brave storyline that was new to me. This book gave us themes of self discovery, found family, and acceptance of who you are and who you can become.
The two worlds that divides Ari and Torren seem so close yet the pair were separated for years. Along the way of discovering her powers she meets friends who actually are revealed to be long lost family friends. I really loved reading the scenes of them discovering their previous bonds and reconnecting. The history behind Alterra is revealed through history lessons with Ari and Torren along with flashback scenes of the grandfathers. I really enjoyed those moments of world building because it allowed us to connect a lot more to the story and characters.
Ari finds herself taken from a world where her actions are limited due to her parent’s caution to one in which she is placed in a position of higher power - what an adjustment for a young girl who never new she had powers in the first place. Ari has to adjust quickly to this but with the help of Torren, Callan, Deborah, Ronin, Brayden, the girl who turns out to be Ronin and Harmony’s daughter, Cade the wolf, and so many others she grows into her powers and her own confidence.
I loved the representation of Down syndrome in this story and how just because you’re not like others means you should be treated differently. Along with that, the moments with the importance of consent - seen with Torren and him upholding it along with Charlie / Edric’s lack of it and the trauma it can cause.
The exploration of all the powers and watching their users display them all was another added aspect to this book. Usually a person only has one, but Ari finds herself blessed with the capability of many upon meeting someone with a new power. Also, the glamour!!!! So much came from this plot point, Torren being Kai, Edric being Charlie!!
While I am not the main demographic for this book, it was still a really great read that I enjoyed. I felt myself gasping at certain scenes as they unraveled and reacting out loud to others. I need book 2 to be out ASAP so I can continue the dive into this new world.
The two worlds that divides Ari and Torren seem so close yet the pair were separated for years. Along the way of discovering her powers she meets friends who actually are revealed to be long lost family friends. I really loved reading the scenes of them discovering their previous bonds and reconnecting. The history behind Alterra is revealed through history lessons with Ari and Torren along with flashback scenes of the grandfathers. I really enjoyed those moments of world building because it allowed us to connect a lot more to the story and characters.
Ari finds herself taken from a world where her actions are limited due to her parent’s caution to one in which she is placed in a position of higher power - what an adjustment for a young girl who never new she had powers in the first place. Ari has to adjust quickly to this but with the help of Torren, Callan, Deborah, Ronin, Brayden, the girl who turns out to be Ronin and Harmony’s daughter, Cade the wolf, and so many others she grows into her powers and her own confidence.
I loved the representation of Down syndrome in this story and how just because you’re not like others means you should be treated differently. Along with that, the moments with the importance of consent - seen with Torren and him upholding it along with Charlie / Edric’s lack of it and the trauma it can cause.
The exploration of all the powers and watching their users display them all was another added aspect to this book. Usually a person only has one, but Ari finds herself blessed with the capability of many upon meeting someone with a new power. Also, the glamour!!!! So much came from this plot point, Torren being Kai, Edric being Charlie!!
While I am not the main demographic for this book, it was still a really great read that I enjoyed. I felt myself gasping at certain scenes as they unraveled and reacting out loud to others. I need book 2 to be out ASAP so I can continue the dive into this new world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
This is fun adventure with great characters, a fun setting, an engaging plot and a great magic system. I was intrigued by the blurb and the cover; I especially love the “misty” style to cover. It really conveys a lot of the book’s feel.
I was drawn into the book really quickly. The author does a great job introducing you to the characters in a way that doesn’t slam you with too much information but gives you “just enough” to be intrigued. Always a hard balance to manage so kudos.
I do feel the book reads more “upper middle grade” than YA. There’s definitely YA topics but the way the characters react, especially one in particular, feels more 6th-8th grade level.
And anyone who knows me…knows anytime memories are given weight, I am so here for it!
This is fun adventure with great characters, a fun setting, an engaging plot and a great magic system. I was intrigued by the blurb and the cover; I especially love the “misty” style to cover. It really conveys a lot of the book’s feel.
I was drawn into the book really quickly. The author does a great job introducing you to the characters in a way that doesn’t slam you with too much information but gives you “just enough” to be intrigued. Always a hard balance to manage so kudos.
I do feel the book reads more “upper middle grade” than YA. There’s definitely YA topics but the way the characters react, especially one in particular, feels more 6th-8th grade level.
And anyone who knows me…knows anytime memories are given weight, I am so here for it!
October 13, 2024
I loved this book and the characters in it! It had a great plot and I loved seeing how all the characters were connected as I got further into the book. Even after putting the book down I found myself thinking about the characters and what was going to happen next! It is a great read for all ages & I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy (arguably the best genre).
I can’t wait to read more about Ari & the others in the next book!!
I can’t wait to read more about Ari & the others in the next book!!
September 29, 2024
I would like to start this review by thanking the authors and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Divided is a quick and entertaining young adult romantasy. The world building and characters were a bit confusing for the first few chapters, but I feel like that’s fairly common when starting a new fantasy. Everything comes together and gets easier to understand once you get deeper into the book. The fast paced writing made it easy to read a lot of the book in one sitting. I look forward to more from these authors!
Divided is a quick and entertaining young adult romantasy. The world building and characters were a bit confusing for the first few chapters, but I feel like that’s fairly common when starting a new fantasy. Everything comes together and gets easier to understand once you get deeper into the book. The fast paced writing made it easy to read a lot of the book in one sitting. I look forward to more from these authors!
October 1, 2024
This book was amazing. I love every page. The storyline was so good that I couldn't put it down. It was definitely a book that had me want to continue to see what happened. The characters were all so good, and I wish I could have continued reading about them. It's definitely a book I would recommend.
September 14, 2025
I need to read more fantasy this book was so good it’s going on my top ten list I’m in love with Torren I don’t even have words
October 10, 2024
- I love how there is little snippets of Alice in Wonderland being in the story. I love few sentences that just takes me back to the time when I was watching Alice in Wonderland "Should I follow my “white rabbit” and see where he goes?" And " But like Alice following her white rabbit, curiosity got the best of me."
-found another sentence that just remind me of Alice in Wonderland "Alice must’ve done when she discovered the rabbit hole."
- I seriously love all the snippets of Alice in Wonderland "“If Alice had marked her trail, maybe she wouldn’t have gotten lost."
- this one sentence reminded me when Alice found a bottle when she went down the rabbit hole. "Take the blue bottle."
- the story is very addictive just can't get enough of it
- I love all the characters
- I love this sentence and long "In a hushed voice, Lyra began singing the song of my childhood, the lullaby. As her voice rose, the weight I’d been feeling lifted. Lyra, lost within Alterria yet always filled with hope. I closed my eyes and let the song comfort me. The mist and the meadow, whenever they do meet Speak of the young, dancing and free Glamour in the moonlight, true love so sweet Sharing ambition, never meant to be Torren joined in. His memories of love had been hidden. But he was here with me now, just like before. The promise of the future we had once talked about lay before us, and I knew everything would be okay. His deep voice harmonized with Lyra’s, and my heart grew even lighter. I dried my eyes. The forest calls my name, I must leave it all and go In the shadow of the leaves, past the river I will roam Others will not understand, I can’t teach what they don’t know Forever with my guardian, the forest is my home. Robert’s words came back to me. Friendships, past, present, and future. The time was here. Powers untold. This is what he meant. I smiled and joined in. Born of this world but not within, missing link from far away Faith expands, protection grows, whatever price must be paid A power once thought lost revealed, Enlightenment dawns today From a world once dying to itself, a new life will be made."
- lyra finds Cecila and she is alive
- uncle torren reads a fairytale book to Cecilia "“The Faraway Princess. Once, a very long time ago, there lived a beautiful princess named Eulalie. Eulalie’s kingdom was comprised of people with all kinds of abilities. Some had magical gifts while some did not. The mix of people kept the kingdom balanced. Princess Eulalie was one with a special gift. As she grew, her parents became frightened by its power. While those with gifts only had one ability, the princess could hold many. Fearful of what they believed to be a curse on their kingdom, they locked Eulalie away, vowing to keep their people safe from her overpowered ability. One day, a handsome young man rescued Eulalie from her prison. “To whom do I owe my gratitude, good sir?” Her eyes sparkled as she spoke, and her smile lit up her face. “Princess Eulalie, I am Edmund, but I am afraid your rescue is not for a joyous reason. Since your parents have passed, your people have become unwell.” “Unwell, Edmund? How so?” “The balance between them has begun to tip as fear has overcome the kingdom. Some with gifts have begun to see themselves as superior and have taken those without as servants. Many of the gift-less have fled the kingdom in fear.” “And what am I to do, Edmund? My own parents saw me as a curse and locked me away in my own home. How can I help my people when I have been unable to help myself?” “Hope, your highness.” “Hope?” “Meet the people. Assure them they still have a ruler and that everyone has value, no matter their ability.” Princess Eulalie followed Edmund to the town square. Walking through the crowd, she became overwhelmed as she bumped into the people, terrified by the uproar within her kingdom. They were miserable and quarreled in the streets. She took to the raised podium and called for the attention of her people. One by one, they lined up to air their grievances to the princess. As she offered solutions, the people would thank her by taking her hand and kissing her fingers. She noticed some contact would feel different than others. One man caused her to feel as though she was floating. Another made her feel as though she could no longer move. By the time she had seen each citizen, exhaustion overwhelmed her. She swayed upon the stage and collapsed into Edmund’s arms. He brought her back to the palace and watched over her as she slept. When she finally awoke several days later, she could not control her gift. She would suddenly disappear, her eyes would randomly cloud over, and little bursts of flame would shoot from her fingertips. “My princess, what has happened to you? I have never met a person with multiple gifts.” He gazed into her eyes. The sparkle had disappeared entirely, as though she was no more than a shell of her old self. Through tears, Eulalie confided in her companion. “It is not a gift but a curse. When my parents discovered I could acquire new gifts, they had me locked away. I am a danger to my kingdom and our people.” Edmund grasped her hand. “You are no danger.” “There are too many gifts within me, Edmund. I fear I cannot hold so much at once. I can feel myself breaking down the longer I am filled with all this power.” “I am an alchemist. I will find a way to help you.” Eulalie drifted into another long sleep. Her body, ravaged with power, thrashed around restlessly. Edmund worked day and night to come up with a cure. When she finally awoke, he presented her with a potion. “Drink a little of this each time an unwanted gift activates. It should remove the gift from you.” “Thank you, my friend.” As the day went on, Eulalie drank a bit of the potion each time a gift activated. Edmund watched as life returned to her eyes, little by little. When all the unwanted gifts were gone, Eulalie proved to be a fair and wise leader. The end.”
- there was a good twist on the amnesia in this story
- it's was good to see a girl save boy in this story
- I adore this book as it has second chances, soulmates, Forbidden romance, Chosen one all in one book
- I can't wait for book 2 come out
-found another sentence that just remind me of Alice in Wonderland "Alice must’ve done when she discovered the rabbit hole."
- I seriously love all the snippets of Alice in Wonderland "“If Alice had marked her trail, maybe she wouldn’t have gotten lost."
- this one sentence reminded me when Alice found a bottle when she went down the rabbit hole. "Take the blue bottle."
- the story is very addictive just can't get enough of it
- I love all the characters
- I love this sentence and long "In a hushed voice, Lyra began singing the song of my childhood, the lullaby. As her voice rose, the weight I’d been feeling lifted. Lyra, lost within Alterria yet always filled with hope. I closed my eyes and let the song comfort me. The mist and the meadow, whenever they do meet Speak of the young, dancing and free Glamour in the moonlight, true love so sweet Sharing ambition, never meant to be Torren joined in. His memories of love had been hidden. But he was here with me now, just like before. The promise of the future we had once talked about lay before us, and I knew everything would be okay. His deep voice harmonized with Lyra’s, and my heart grew even lighter. I dried my eyes. The forest calls my name, I must leave it all and go In the shadow of the leaves, past the river I will roam Others will not understand, I can’t teach what they don’t know Forever with my guardian, the forest is my home. Robert’s words came back to me. Friendships, past, present, and future. The time was here. Powers untold. This is what he meant. I smiled and joined in. Born of this world but not within, missing link from far away Faith expands, protection grows, whatever price must be paid A power once thought lost revealed, Enlightenment dawns today From a world once dying to itself, a new life will be made."
- lyra finds Cecila and she is alive
- uncle torren reads a fairytale book to Cecilia "“The Faraway Princess. Once, a very long time ago, there lived a beautiful princess named Eulalie. Eulalie’s kingdom was comprised of people with all kinds of abilities. Some had magical gifts while some did not. The mix of people kept the kingdom balanced. Princess Eulalie was one with a special gift. As she grew, her parents became frightened by its power. While those with gifts only had one ability, the princess could hold many. Fearful of what they believed to be a curse on their kingdom, they locked Eulalie away, vowing to keep their people safe from her overpowered ability. One day, a handsome young man rescued Eulalie from her prison. “To whom do I owe my gratitude, good sir?” Her eyes sparkled as she spoke, and her smile lit up her face. “Princess Eulalie, I am Edmund, but I am afraid your rescue is not for a joyous reason. Since your parents have passed, your people have become unwell.” “Unwell, Edmund? How so?” “The balance between them has begun to tip as fear has overcome the kingdom. Some with gifts have begun to see themselves as superior and have taken those without as servants. Many of the gift-less have fled the kingdom in fear.” “And what am I to do, Edmund? My own parents saw me as a curse and locked me away in my own home. How can I help my people when I have been unable to help myself?” “Hope, your highness.” “Hope?” “Meet the people. Assure them they still have a ruler and that everyone has value, no matter their ability.” Princess Eulalie followed Edmund to the town square. Walking through the crowd, she became overwhelmed as she bumped into the people, terrified by the uproar within her kingdom. They were miserable and quarreled in the streets. She took to the raised podium and called for the attention of her people. One by one, they lined up to air their grievances to the princess. As she offered solutions, the people would thank her by taking her hand and kissing her fingers. She noticed some contact would feel different than others. One man caused her to feel as though she was floating. Another made her feel as though she could no longer move. By the time she had seen each citizen, exhaustion overwhelmed her. She swayed upon the stage and collapsed into Edmund’s arms. He brought her back to the palace and watched over her as she slept. When she finally awoke several days later, she could not control her gift. She would suddenly disappear, her eyes would randomly cloud over, and little bursts of flame would shoot from her fingertips. “My princess, what has happened to you? I have never met a person with multiple gifts.” He gazed into her eyes. The sparkle had disappeared entirely, as though she was no more than a shell of her old self. Through tears, Eulalie confided in her companion. “It is not a gift but a curse. When my parents discovered I could acquire new gifts, they had me locked away. I am a danger to my kingdom and our people.” Edmund grasped her hand. “You are no danger.” “There are too many gifts within me, Edmund. I fear I cannot hold so much at once. I can feel myself breaking down the longer I am filled with all this power.” “I am an alchemist. I will find a way to help you.” Eulalie drifted into another long sleep. Her body, ravaged with power, thrashed around restlessly. Edmund worked day and night to come up with a cure. When she finally awoke, he presented her with a potion. “Drink a little of this each time an unwanted gift activates. It should remove the gift from you.” “Thank you, my friend.” As the day went on, Eulalie drank a bit of the potion each time a gift activated. Edmund watched as life returned to her eyes, little by little. When all the unwanted gifts were gone, Eulalie proved to be a fair and wise leader. The end.”
- there was a good twist on the amnesia in this story
- it's was good to see a girl save boy in this story
- I adore this book as it has second chances, soulmates, Forbidden romance, Chosen one all in one book
- I can't wait for book 2 come out
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2024
Read if you like: YA fantasy, no-spice, found family, forbidden romance, soul mates, chosen one, twist on amnesia, girl saves boy, second chance, misunderstood rebel
Divided is a TRUE young adult novel. It is 100% appropriate for the YA audience and I feel comfortable recommending it to middle schoolers and high schoolers, which I highly appreciate. I think adults will enjoy the book, too—I know I did! Overall, I think this book is well-balanced. It has good descriptions of scenery, enough to picture the characters' surroundings but not overboard. The plot is complicated but it stays on track (I mention this because plot holes are a pet peeve of mine). I also like the Alice in Wonderland references as an Alice in Wonderland fan myself! The story is pretty fast-paced in my opinion, and the world definitely has whimsical vibes. There isn't info dumping in sections, and the info about the world and magic system is spread out nicely. I think the book has great side characters. The FMC, Arisanna, is a solid character and very likable (we also share the same nickname!). She's courageous, smart, and compassionate. I love how she does what she believes is the right thing to do. The MMC is also very likable and it was interesting to learn more about him throughout the book. I don't want to say much about him other than he is a sweetheart because it's best to leave most of his role in the book as a surprise in my opinion. The FMC and MMC are already romantically (and age-appropriately) involved with each other at the beginning of the book, and they go through hardships in the story, which I think is pretty unique nowadays because usually, the characters in the romance plot haven't met each other yet in the beginning. However, that aspect works really well for the plot. I appreciate that their relationship is healthy. I think the dialogue with all the characters is engaging as well. I had a fun time going on Arisanna's journey with her from start to finish as she navigates a new world and discovering the twists. I would love to read the second book when it comes out next year.
Divided is a TRUE young adult novel. It is 100% appropriate for the YA audience and I feel comfortable recommending it to middle schoolers and high schoolers, which I highly appreciate. I think adults will enjoy the book, too—I know I did! Overall, I think this book is well-balanced. It has good descriptions of scenery, enough to picture the characters' surroundings but not overboard. The plot is complicated but it stays on track (I mention this because plot holes are a pet peeve of mine). I also like the Alice in Wonderland references as an Alice in Wonderland fan myself! The story is pretty fast-paced in my opinion, and the world definitely has whimsical vibes. There isn't info dumping in sections, and the info about the world and magic system is spread out nicely. I think the book has great side characters. The FMC, Arisanna, is a solid character and very likable (we also share the same nickname!). She's courageous, smart, and compassionate. I love how she does what she believes is the right thing to do. The MMC is also very likable and it was interesting to learn more about him throughout the book. I don't want to say much about him other than he is a sweetheart because it's best to leave most of his role in the book as a surprise in my opinion. The FMC and MMC are already romantically (and age-appropriately) involved with each other at the beginning of the book, and they go through hardships in the story, which I think is pretty unique nowadays because usually, the characters in the romance plot haven't met each other yet in the beginning. However, that aspect works really well for the plot. I appreciate that their relationship is healthy. I think the dialogue with all the characters is engaging as well. I had a fun time going on Arisanna's journey with her from start to finish as she navigates a new world and discovering the twists. I would love to read the second book when it comes out next year.
October 1, 2024
Thank you to the authors, @morningstoriespublications, for sending me this wonderful ARC! And a special shoutout to @manaarts_ for designing this gorgeous cover, I LITERALLY cannot get over how beautiful it is 😍😍
Divided is a story about Arisanna Lunagarde, who lives peacefully in the woods with her parents, until the day a mysterious blue light swallows a girl whole. Six years later, ropes of fog drag her to Alterria, a hidden town where nearly everyone has a magical gift.
In Alterria, she meets Torren, who seems a LOT like the boy she loves. The same boy that told her he didn’t love her anymore and left without a backward glance. Arisanna learns of the dangers in Alterria, and the danger she herself is in because of her heritage. With Torren by her side, she learns to control her newfound “Gifts” and works to protect the people she loves.
I loved the perfect adoration and tenderness between Arisanna and Torren, it was the sweet and glowy “young love” that is perfect for Young Adult Romantasy. 💖
I also liked the focus on the power of memory; one of the greatest punishments you can receive in Alterria is to essentially relive painful memories, causing both physical and emotional pain. BUT on the flip side, it was sweet to see the happy memories that formed Arisanna’s relationship with Torren.
As this is fantasy I was hoping for a bit more world-building, and some transitions from chapter to chapter felt a tad disjointed in the beginning. It took me a bit to really get into the story, but I ended up getting hooked all the same. I can’t wait for the rest of the trilogy!! 🥰
Also, I LOVE that this was written by two women who have been best friends since middle school. That’s serious #friendshipgoals 😍
Divided is coming out on October 3rd!! 💚💚💚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Divided is a story about Arisanna Lunagarde, who lives peacefully in the woods with her parents, until the day a mysterious blue light swallows a girl whole. Six years later, ropes of fog drag her to Alterria, a hidden town where nearly everyone has a magical gift.
In Alterria, she meets Torren, who seems a LOT like the boy she loves. The same boy that told her he didn’t love her anymore and left without a backward glance. Arisanna learns of the dangers in Alterria, and the danger she herself is in because of her heritage. With Torren by her side, she learns to control her newfound “Gifts” and works to protect the people she loves.
I loved the perfect adoration and tenderness between Arisanna and Torren, it was the sweet and glowy “young love” that is perfect for Young Adult Romantasy. 💖
I also liked the focus on the power of memory; one of the greatest punishments you can receive in Alterria is to essentially relive painful memories, causing both physical and emotional pain. BUT on the flip side, it was sweet to see the happy memories that formed Arisanna’s relationship with Torren.
As this is fantasy I was hoping for a bit more world-building, and some transitions from chapter to chapter felt a tad disjointed in the beginning. It took me a bit to really get into the story, but I ended up getting hooked all the same. I can’t wait for the rest of the trilogy!! 🥰
Also, I LOVE that this was written by two women who have been best friends since middle school. That’s serious #friendshipgoals 😍
Divided is coming out on October 3rd!! 💚💚💚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 3, 2024
Thank you to Aimee Aumock and Missy Kampa for the ARC.
Plot 4.5/5
Characters 4.25/5
Ending 4.25/5
Interest 5/5
Overall 4.5/5
-This book really transported me into an imaginary fairytale. I did feel like it read quite young at first but it really worked with this story. It really felt like reading a childhood fairytale. The story itself was quite intriguing and I was fully invested in it and the world I was immersed in. The world was well described and I like learning about it with Ari as it made sense instead of info dump.
-I liked the characters. They were all quite nice and sweet, except the villains of course. Although I wished that Charlie wasn’t villainised as much since he started off being quite a sweet guy, without him having to be a love interest. Other than that, the romance between the two main characters was really cute. I don’t really like that Torren hid his identity for years but I understand his reasons so I’ll forgive him. Additionally, their romance really seemed like a teenage love which was very cute but sometimes a bit too young for my liking.
-It feels like this can be read as a sort of standalone with an opening for a sequel . There are things that are left unanswered but the overall main plot of this book was concluded nicely. I would want to read the sequels once they are released as I don’t feel as if I’ve had enough of this world and these characters.
Plot 4.5/5
Characters 4.25/5
Ending 4.25/5
Interest 5/5
Overall 4.5/5
-This book really transported me into an imaginary fairytale. I did feel like it read quite young at first but it really worked with this story. It really felt like reading a childhood fairytale. The story itself was quite intriguing and I was fully invested in it and the world I was immersed in. The world was well described and I like learning about it with Ari as it made sense instead of info dump.
-I liked the characters. They were all quite nice and sweet, except the villains of course. Although I wished that Charlie wasn’t villainised as much since he started off being quite a sweet guy, without him having to be a love interest. Other than that, the romance between the two main characters was really cute. I don’t really like that Torren hid his identity for years but I understand his reasons so I’ll forgive him. Additionally, their romance really seemed like a teenage love which was very cute but sometimes a bit too young for my liking.
-It feels like this can be read as a sort of standalone with an opening for a sequel . There are things that are left unanswered but the overall main plot of this book was concluded nicely. I would want to read the sequels once they are released as I don’t feel as if I’ve had enough of this world and these characters.
October 11, 2024
“You showed me that even in the darkness, there was still light in the world.”
Divided was a very nice fantasy. It is labeled as YA, but I would more considerate it as middle-grade (or something in between) regarding the characters’ psychology and how they interact with the world (the main character, especially, was sometimes a bit childish and oblivious to what happened around her and all the cues adults gave up, but well… she’s a teenager just catapulted in a foreign world so… 100% understandable).
That being said, I absolutely adored Ari and Torren. They were cute, gifted (indispensable to survive in Alterria), and never “whinny” despite all the difficulties they had to overcome. The romance was super cute –but it’s difficult to talk about it without giving any spoilers.
What I loved the most was the world building and magical system. The way Memory is dealt with in that book is amazing, how magic works too. Here too, I don’t want to give away too much, as there are many delectable twists and turns, and discovering how magic works is definitely a huge part of it. I can’t wait to learn more in book2, and hope Ari and Torren will face many more difficulties, now that she understands Alterria better.
Thank you to the authors and to happilybooked for the copy of the book. My opinions are my own.
Divided was a very nice fantasy. It is labeled as YA, but I would more considerate it as middle-grade (or something in between) regarding the characters’ psychology and how they interact with the world (the main character, especially, was sometimes a bit childish and oblivious to what happened around her and all the cues adults gave up, but well… she’s a teenager just catapulted in a foreign world so… 100% understandable).
That being said, I absolutely adored Ari and Torren. They were cute, gifted (indispensable to survive in Alterria), and never “whinny” despite all the difficulties they had to overcome. The romance was super cute –but it’s difficult to talk about it without giving any spoilers.
What I loved the most was the world building and magical system. The way Memory is dealt with in that book is amazing, how magic works too. Here too, I don’t want to give away too much, as there are many delectable twists and turns, and discovering how magic works is definitely a huge part of it. I can’t wait to learn more in book2, and hope Ari and Torren will face many more difficulties, now that she understands Alterria better.
Thank you to the authors and to happilybooked for the copy of the book. My opinions are my own.
October 3, 2024
Fun, Cute YA Romantasy. Unique world and Magic System. If you like political intrigue, hidden memories, hidden identities, found family, second chance at love, and forbidden love, this is the book for you.
Honestly it did take a bit for me to get into this book, there was a lot of things going on in the beginning and I was seriously getting angry at Ari (cause she’s so young and naive) and angry for her cause of creepy, manipulative people (IYKYK). But it definitely makes a heck of difference knowing everything now! But the poor girls heart…don’t know how much more it could have taken! I did really like how much she grew through the book and was able to find her truth and her voice. And Torren is such a sweetheart. He’s the whole tortured, misunderstood rebel thing down and that kid deserves a big hug!
Definitely interested to see how the story continues to play out in the next book! (*I also really love the cover on this book and totally think it could be an awesome anime! 😉)
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Honestly it did take a bit for me to get into this book, there was a lot of things going on in the beginning and I was seriously getting angry at Ari (cause she’s so young and naive) and angry for her cause of creepy, manipulative people (IYKYK). But it definitely makes a heck of difference knowing everything now! But the poor girls heart…don’t know how much more it could have taken! I did really like how much she grew through the book and was able to find her truth and her voice. And Torren is such a sweetheart. He’s the whole tortured, misunderstood rebel thing down and that kid deserves a big hug!
Definitely interested to see how the story continues to play out in the next book! (*I also really love the cover on this book and totally think it could be an awesome anime! 😉)
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
November 24, 2025
This young adult romantasy was an amazing story! There was a magical realm with powerful gifts, hidden identities, found families, corrupt officials, mysterious secrets, danger around every turn, and an exciting adventure! I loved how the main characters grew to love, trust, and help each other. I really liked the magical system, and how it was explained through the history. The twists were surprising, kept me guessing, and wanting more!
When Ari finds a girl in the woods near her house, and she disappears into a blue light, she spends six years looking for her. Suddenly, one day, she's transported to Alterria, a magical, hidden realm, where she shouldn't have survived after a few hours. However, it seems there are many secrets and surprises in this foreign place waiting for her to discover, including forgotten love, unknown history, old and new friendships, and a battle against the corrupt officials for the fate of Alterria.
I received a free copy for November's No Spice Book Club, with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.
When Ari finds a girl in the woods near her house, and she disappears into a blue light, she spends six years looking for her. Suddenly, one day, she's transported to Alterria, a magical, hidden realm, where she shouldn't have survived after a few hours. However, it seems there are many secrets and surprises in this foreign place waiting for her to discover, including forgotten love, unknown history, old and new friendships, and a battle against the corrupt officials for the fate of Alterria.
I received a free copy for November's No Spice Book Club, with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2024
💚“Here’s the thing.” He grasped my hand. “I may not remember our past, but every bit of my being is screaming at me to protect you. If I run, it’ll mean trouble for you.” “I can handle it,” I said more confidently than I felt. “No way. Like it or not, I’m not going anywhere without you.”
Thank you SO much Aimee, Missy and Happily Booked PR for this ARC! I am so grateful I was able to come along this ride, early!
This YA, second chance, fanstasy was so so good! I was hooked from the beginning! You go on the journey with Ari (fmc) trying to figure out how she got to another world away from her little forest home. While in Alterra, she meets Torren and it's a rollercoaster from there. There are so many twists and turns and I didn't know who to trust. There are magic powers, historic feuds, missing people, and secrets. Lots of secrets.
If life wasnt so crazy sometimes, I could have read this in one sitting. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!
Thank you SO much Aimee, Missy and Happily Booked PR for this ARC! I am so grateful I was able to come along this ride, early!
This YA, second chance, fanstasy was so so good! I was hooked from the beginning! You go on the journey with Ari (fmc) trying to figure out how she got to another world away from her little forest home. While in Alterra, she meets Torren and it's a rollercoaster from there. There are so many twists and turns and I didn't know who to trust. There are magic powers, historic feuds, missing people, and secrets. Lots of secrets.
If life wasnt so crazy sometimes, I could have read this in one sitting. I absolutely cannot wait for book 2!
Want to read
October 25, 2024★★☆☆☆Characters
★★★☆☆ Character Development
☆☆☆☆☆ Spicy
★★★☆☆Plot/Storyline
★★☆☆☆ Ending
★★☆☆☆ Writing
What Kept/Didn’t Keep Me Reading:
DNF’d. I gave myself until at least 55% of the book to try to retain my interest, but unfortunately this one was just not for me. While it is a YA read, it’s written very much like it could be for younger audiences. The storyline is easy to comprehend and is fast pace enough to keep the story going, but the story itself wasn’t for me. This isn’t to say it wouldn’t catch another readers eye, but with it’s younger audience writing style and story content, I found myself losing interest frequently.
I’m considering letting my niece read this to get her feedback just because it’s written more for her age group I feel; 13-14 yrs old.
I was given this ARC with the intention of giving an open and honest review. Will edit my good reads review in the future with my Niece's feedback if she ends up reading it.
September 30, 2024
Rating: 4⭐️/5
This book is a captivating blend of fantasy and self-discovery, making it perfect for fans of young adult (YA) stories out there!
The plot is filled with exciting tropes: SECOND CHANCES and FOUND FAMILY as Arisanna reconnects with her past; a HIDDEN IDENTITY that reveals her powerful abilities; and a MISUNDERSTOOD “REBEL” who fights against the town's rules.
As the chosen one, her powers hold the key to saving her imprisoned friend, Torren—the boy who makes her heart race and the only person who can help her find her way home.
Ari faces a heart-wrenching choice: return home or stay and protect secrets that could change everything.
With vivid descriptions and a gripping storyline, this book is a must-read.
I can’t wait for Sway (Book 2)!
A huge thank you to authors Aimee Aumock and Missy Kampa and Happily Booked PR for the ARC!
Release date: 10/03/2024.
This book is a captivating blend of fantasy and self-discovery, making it perfect for fans of young adult (YA) stories out there!
The plot is filled with exciting tropes: SECOND CHANCES and FOUND FAMILY as Arisanna reconnects with her past; a HIDDEN IDENTITY that reveals her powerful abilities; and a MISUNDERSTOOD “REBEL” who fights against the town's rules.
As the chosen one, her powers hold the key to saving her imprisoned friend, Torren—the boy who makes her heart race and the only person who can help her find her way home.
Ari faces a heart-wrenching choice: return home or stay and protect secrets that could change everything.
With vivid descriptions and a gripping storyline, this book is a must-read.
I can’t wait for Sway (Book 2)!
A huge thank you to authors Aimee Aumock and Missy Kampa and Happily Booked PR for the ARC!
Release date: 10/03/2024.
October 5, 2024
My rating: 4.5 stars
I did not want to put this book down! If you like YA fantasy, second chance love, and the chosen one then this book is it!
From the storyline to the fantasy aspects, this book came together great! I always love reading about a strong FMC! Ari is pulled into another world where she faces many challenges to get back home! During her journey she learns about her family history and discovers herself too! The only time I had a little confusion was with the different characters, but it was easy for me to get back on track! Overall, the story flowed beautifully and there even some twists! Thank you to @happilybookedpr and @morningstoriespublications for my ARC copy! Can’t wait until the second book!
Favorite Quote: “Until we meet again”
I did not want to put this book down! If you like YA fantasy, second chance love, and the chosen one then this book is it!
From the storyline to the fantasy aspects, this book came together great! I always love reading about a strong FMC! Ari is pulled into another world where she faces many challenges to get back home! During her journey she learns about her family history and discovers herself too! The only time I had a little confusion was with the different characters, but it was easy for me to get back on track! Overall, the story flowed beautifully and there even some twists! Thank you to @happilybookedpr and @morningstoriespublications for my ARC copy! Can’t wait until the second book!
Favorite Quote: “Until we meet again”
October 6, 2024
What a cute, fun read!
The world and character building was great; a tad bit confusing I'm the beginning as there was so much going on, but it got easier to follow as it went on.
I loved the growing relationship between ari and torren. Their adoration towards one another, despite what they're going through, made my heart soar.
It gave me Alice in wonderland meets politically-built magical realms. I loved the concept of everyone's "gift" and the all over vibe of the council's reason for being there.
While it was a quick read, which I do love most times, I feel like some of it was a rush. You start with one situation and before you can even absorb what's going on, it switched to another.
Other than that, I really liked it and can't wait for book 2!
The world and character building was great; a tad bit confusing I'm the beginning as there was so much going on, but it got easier to follow as it went on.
I loved the growing relationship between ari and torren. Their adoration towards one another, despite what they're going through, made my heart soar.
It gave me Alice in wonderland meets politically-built magical realms. I loved the concept of everyone's "gift" and the all over vibe of the council's reason for being there.
While it was a quick read, which I do love most times, I feel like some of it was a rush. You start with one situation and before you can even absorb what's going on, it switched to another.
Other than that, I really liked it and can't wait for book 2!
October 18, 2024
AMAZING!
This book was a wild ride filled with so many secrets that kept me guessing the whole time!
Ari, the FMC, was wandering around the woods in her backyard and all the sudden finds herself in a new strange land, but everyone is hauntingly familiar.
There she meets Torren, who reminds her so much of her boyfriend who broke her heart and vanished a few months prior.
This story kept me guessing the whole time and had me trying to figure out who was good and who was bad.
The world building was also amazing and I felt like I watched this as a movie instead of just reading the book!
I can’t wait to read book 2!!!
If you love:
🔹Second Chance Romance
🔹Forbidden Romance
🔹Hidden Identity
🔹Found Family
🔹First Person POV
🔹No Spice Romance
This book was a wild ride filled with so many secrets that kept me guessing the whole time!
Ari, the FMC, was wandering around the woods in her backyard and all the sudden finds herself in a new strange land, but everyone is hauntingly familiar.
There she meets Torren, who reminds her so much of her boyfriend who broke her heart and vanished a few months prior.
This story kept me guessing the whole time and had me trying to figure out who was good and who was bad.
The world building was also amazing and I felt like I watched this as a movie instead of just reading the book!
I can’t wait to read book 2!!!
If you love:
🔹Second Chance Romance
🔹Forbidden Romance
🔹Hidden Identity
🔹Found Family
🔹First Person POV
🔹No Spice Romance
December 7, 2024
This was a well written amazing and uniquely original story that I could not put down! Captivating, mysterious, and like nothing else I've read before! It was easy to connect with Ari, and I absolutely adore Torren. I felt like I could get to know the characters without being bogged down with an overload of information. The pace was steady and balanced and I appreciated the twists and turns thrown in! Great world-building, original gift/magic system, coming of age, slow-burn friends to lovers no spice romance, the right amount of family focus, relatable/realistic character dynamics with a neatly wrapped ending - not quite an HEA and not quite a cliffhanger - just right to tease out more to come and I can't wait to continue the story!
October 19, 2024
Divided Is a young adult , forbidden love fantasy romance with an amnesia twist Book!
The FMC Arisanna is on a journey to get back home, when she is taken to Alterria… The Characters,the worldbuilding, omg the plot twists absolutely enthralling. I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next at every turn. And can’t wait to continue reading the next book when it comes out to continue our journey with these characters and their story!
I think this book would be perfect for any age range from YA to adult it was really interesting!
Thank you so much to HappilyBookedPR & the authors for this ARC! I really enjoyed this and can’t wait to see what comes next!
The FMC Arisanna is on a journey to get back home, when she is taken to Alterria… The Characters,the worldbuilding, omg the plot twists absolutely enthralling. I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next at every turn. And can’t wait to continue reading the next book when it comes out to continue our journey with these characters and their story!
I think this book would be perfect for any age range from YA to adult it was really interesting!
Thank you so much to HappilyBookedPR & the authors for this ARC! I really enjoyed this and can’t wait to see what comes next!
October 26, 2024
Arianna lived with her parents in a too large home. On her birthday she defied her parents by going into the woods to follow a cute wolf pup, but she did mark her path. Strange things happened before her father found her. Six years pass and the story continues. She has a boyfriend that no one has met and he leaves her. She is miserable.
This story is her next step in her life. Family, friendship, love, and deceit are all apart of her story.
Awesome story, well written, and can't wait for the next in the series. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is her next step in her life. Family, friendship, love, and deceit are all apart of her story.
Awesome story, well written, and can't wait for the next in the series. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2024
Thank you so much to Aimee Aumock and Missy Kampa, as well as the Happily Booked PR team for this E- A R C! All thoughts and opinions are my own!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Find more on my IG @kayreads_romance
⚠️ !! Please be sure to check any TWs before diving in !! ⚠️
What to expect:
* Second chance
* Forbidden romance
* Hidden identity
* Found family
* Soulmates 🥰💕
Woah!!!! This book took me on a JOURNEY! I loved getting to know the characters and getting to see their resilience was beautiful 💕
I’m very excited to read more from these authors!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Find more on my IG @kayreads_romance
⚠️ !! Please be sure to check any TWs before diving in !! ⚠️
What to expect:
* Second chance
* Forbidden romance
* Hidden identity
* Found family
* Soulmates 🥰💕
Woah!!!! This book took me on a JOURNEY! I loved getting to know the characters and getting to see their resilience was beautiful 💕
I’m very excited to read more from these authors!!!
October 4, 2024
An interesting fantasy that ponders what would happen if the direction of your life was changed by one unexpected encounter.
It takes a little to get into the plot of this book because there are a lot of moving pieces, and some of them don't fully come together until further into the book. However, what emerges is a powerful story about family, perseverance, and the ability to grow and change.
It will be interesting to see where the authors take the story next especially with some of the different implications that they did not fully explore within this book.
It takes a little to get into the plot of this book because there are a lot of moving pieces, and some of them don't fully come together until further into the book. However, what emerges is a powerful story about family, perseverance, and the ability to grow and change.
It will be interesting to see where the authors take the story next especially with some of the different implications that they did not fully explore within this book.
October 8, 2024
Divided starts out immediately intriguing and sparking the curiosity that lives in us all. Willfully breaking rules while using knowledge from elders took me back to a simpler time.
You then delve into mystery and reliving memories that keep the suspense growing.
A magical world that is only accessible via special transport and a story of mystery unfolds.
It's a must read for those that love the possibility of the unknown and stories of love found, lost, and rekindled against all odds.
Continuous mystery from start to finish!
You then delve into mystery and reliving memories that keep the suspense growing.
A magical world that is only accessible via special transport and a story of mystery unfolds.
It's a must read for those that love the possibility of the unknown and stories of love found, lost, and rekindled against all odds.
Continuous mystery from start to finish!
October 11, 2024
I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have received an advanced copy of Divided from the authors and Happily Booked PR!
Divided truly was written really well and I thought the premise and plot-line were extremely intriguing. However, I did have difficulty connecting with the characters and it made it hard for me to focus my attention on the story because of that and honestly I think the story just wasn’t for me. I did enjoy the twist and turns though and still recommend the story because I do think that others will enjoy reading it!
Divided truly was written really well and I thought the premise and plot-line were extremely intriguing. However, I did have difficulty connecting with the characters and it made it hard for me to focus my attention on the story because of that and honestly I think the story just wasn’t for me. I did enjoy the twist and turns though and still recommend the story because I do think that others will enjoy reading it!
October 16, 2024
This is the first book in a fantasy series, so some world building in the beginning which gives it a bit of a slow start but if definitely ended on a strong note. The book focused a lot on the plot with a small undercurrent of romance. There were a few shared kisses but nothing beyond that. With all that being said this book definitely did leave me on my toes wondering which way the plot was going to go. I will say there were a few plot holes when I comes to the gift of the FMC but other than that overall the book was enjoyable
December 7, 2024
They say to never judge a book by it's cover, but look at this guys!! It is absolutely beautiful!
I enjoyed reading this book as a small palette cleanser from my typical reads. This was a wonderfully written book that is suited for the Young Adults to the Middle Schoolers. It has a wonderful story that includes a small bit of mystery to it and CLEAN romance. The plot had me hooked and ready for more!
I enjoyed reading this book as a small palette cleanser from my typical reads. This was a wonderfully written book that is suited for the Young Adults to the Middle Schoolers. It has a wonderful story that includes a small bit of mystery to it and CLEAN romance. The plot had me hooked and ready for more!
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