The walls are closing in on Rose. But when powerful enemies move her from house arrest to a literal prison, Rose finds herself alone. Caged. And without help.
Isolated from her friends and allies, yet stumbling on the truth of her captors’ schemes, Rose must free herself. If she doesn’t make it out in time, evil oppressors will take over her city.
Can Rose escape her cage before her foes win and destroy what took the Underground generations to build?
Find out in the second book in the award-winning YA dystopian Divided series that reviewers say reminds them of such classic YA dystopian as Divergent and The Giver.
CC Robinson has over two decades’ experience in cross-cultural settings as a medical doctor working in post-civil war nations and as an Associate Pastor at a multi-ethnic congregation led by an African-American man in Cincinnati, the setting for Divided. When she’s not throwing on her superhero cape to save her characters from their dystopian antics, CC enjoys hiking, gardening, dancing, swimming, and driving her jeep through the woods with her husband and three kids.
This is the first book I have read by this author and also the second book in Robinson's 'The Divided Series'.
I will start by saying that this isn't my usual choice of genre so I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about the storyline but I was looking forward to trying it out and I am very please to say I did as I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!! If you are not typically a fan of dystopia novels please do not let that put you off and grab your copy of this series today but please do start with 'Divided' to get the best out of the story. This is the second book in Robinson's 'The Divided Series' and although I read it as a standalone I would highly recommend reading the first book in the series which is called 'Divided' first. This is a dystopia novel and it did take me a while to work out what was going on with the different "districts" and what the characters were doing. This is my own fault though for reading this book without reading 'Divided' first. Once I worked out what was going on, who was who and where each person should be and what they were doing I thoroughly enjoyed it!! I will definitely be going back to read 'Divided' and am also looking forward to then reading the next boo in this series which is called 'Betrayed'. The recommended reading age for this book on Amazon is 12-18years old. I would agree with the lower age of 12, maybe 11, but I am 37 so sadly a bit older than 18 and I really enjoyed it so it doesn't matter if you are 12 or 120 this is a great read for teenagers and adults alike. Robinson has included a map of Queenstown where you can see the locations of each "district" as well as a map of the Federated Republic Of America which I found very useful and referred back to it throughout the book so thank you for including this Robinson. The storyline itself is absolutely captivating and it definitely has an intriguing and eye opening concept when it comes to splitting people into "districts" based on the colour of their skin. I am looking forward to finding out more about how this came about in the first book. Robinson has packed this storyline with action, drama, tension, emotions, dystopia, survival, friendship, family and so much more. Her captivating, emotive and evocative writing skills and descriptions really brings Queenstown, the characters and emotions to life at the turn of a page. I went on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from anger to hope, sadness to joy, fear to rage and everything in between as I "watched" the characters and friends fighting for one another and their communities. This book is something my 12 year old son would definitely enjoy but I am going to make sure I have a copy of 'Divided' to read first so he can read them in order. As soon as I had worked out what was going on and who was who I was absolutely hooked and there was no chance of me putting the book down. The chapters are a good length and although I attempted to put the book down to get on with some work there was no chance it was going to happen. I ended up devouring it in just one sitting of several hours. Robinson does a fantastic job of weaving the perspectives of multiple protagonists of Rose, Marcos, Harriet and Jason together to ensure the reader sees the bigger picture and what each of the friends are doing and when. A brilliantly written and action packed book and I cannot wait to read the previous and future books!
Clear your schedules, pack your bags and get ready to be dragged into Queensland and an action packed dystopia thriller!
Each of the characters were wonderfully developed, and would have been even better developed for myself if I had read 'Divided' first, and I was compelled, captivated and rooting for each of the four main characters of Rose, Marcos, Harriet and Jason throughout. They all had their own unique personalities with their individual strengths, flaws, quirks and weaknesses and I am looking forward to meeting them again in Divided and then again in Betrayed. There were characters that angered me, that gave me hope, that I smiled because and I needed to know what was going to happen to each of them. I was particularly invested in Rose who is definitely a woman that I would want on my side and as a friend, her loyalty shone through the pages and she went through so much yet still refused to betray any of them. She is also smart and a fighter and I always love seeing strong female protagonists in books, being female myself. Each of the main characters are well rounded, realistic and Robinson's evocative writing skills ensure they come to life in front of your eyes. I loved learning more about each of them and watching their friendships change and develop from the beginning to the end.
If you enjoy dystopian books such as Insurgent by Veronica Roth and The Unadjusted by Marisa Noelle then you will absolutely love this!!!!
Congratulations CC Robinson on what promises to be a hugely successful series!!! I cannot wait to get stuck into the first and next books in this series!! Here is to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely addictive, action packed dystopia book but please read in order!
In a time when most of the world feels like it is teetering on the edge of a dystopian event, this book perfectly captures both the struggles of living under a tyrannical government and the hope that can stem from finding community and solace in the company of friends and allies. The visceral, gritty tone that the author captured in this novel will sit with readers long after the book ends, and yet the glimmers of hope that arise in those small moments between the characters will resonate with readers as a welcome reprieve for characters that feel relatable and earnest in their desire to free their family, friends, and city.
The balance of action-driven narrative and emotional character growth was well-developed in this story. The fear, rage, and mistrust that comes with living in a society where anyone can turn on you in a moment’s notice, while also finding those moments of hope and joy amongst those you love and trust, was a fine line the author perfectly articulated in this story. The protagonist especially brought this to life, showcasing a fierce loyalty and strength of character as she relentlessly pursued her path, as well as the steady growth of her friends and allies like Marcos, Jason, and Harriet, felt well-earned and encouraging in the face of such overwhelming odds.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, author CC Robinson’s “Caged” is a must-read addition to the Divided series and a fantastic dystopian YA thriller. The twists and turns in the narrative, the glimmers of hope that resonate with readers, and the emotional undertones will stay with readers and leave them eager for the next chapter in this series.
The kids are at it again! Caged picks up right where Divided left off, with the four teen main characters (Rose, Marcos, Harriet, Rose, and Jason) facing the aftermath of their roles in the liberation of an illegal prison camp. Some, like Rose, are determined to pick up where they left off, as she continues with her increasingly less-than-legit seeming research program. Others, like Jason, know there is no going back to life as it was, as he grapples with the death of one parent and the betrayal of another. Interpersonal conflicts abound, even as political forces threaten to disrupt a city on the edge.
I have followed this series since the publication of the first book, Divided, in 2024. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the second book in a planned four-part series, Caged propels the plot of the series forward in some surprising ways, while leaving the fate of its dystopian metropolis, Queenstown, far from settled. The characters' relationships, too, progress in this installment, with friendships (and in some cases, something more) kindling between the four teens. Harriet in particular gets a fleshed-out backstory, while Rose's actions take center stage in the first part of the book. Some readers may find Rose's stubborn curiosity in the face of danger frustrating, none can claim the girl doesn't have a mind of her own!
With escalating action and a consequential conclusion, Caged proves the Divided series is just getting started.
For my full review including sensory aspects please visit my blog. was not aware that you really needed to have read book one first. It would be unfair for me to base my review on that I had not read the first book so the uncertain parts of Caged may well have been covered in the previous instalment. However, what this has done is given me the knowledge to tell you guys if you are new to this author that you need to read book one first. I strongly recommend you do as this definitely does not feel like a standalone. I believe book one must give a lot of background and explanation as to how we’ve got to where we are now starting from in book 2. I found the cover eerie and I do like books to be a little creepy and a little unnerving, Caged did just that. I did find the plot something that could actually happen so from that point it is realistic and not too far-fetched, other readers may disagree. I also appreciate this is YA. I do read some YA, for me to really enjoy I do need a character and identify with and this feels it it is definitely more for the youngsters. I am 40 and the four main characters at all teens similar to my older kids, however I did enjoy that one has the same name as my almost 18-year-old. From the way the plot goes and the ending I believe it has more instalments to come. I feel my older teens will enjoy this however I must make sure they buy book one first! If this had been around when I was a teen I would most definitely enjoyed.
This is Book 2 of the Divided Series, and anyone who reads this series needs to start with Book 1 - Book 2 most definitely isn't a standalone.
The story picks up right from where Book 1 left off, and like Book 1, we do have different POVs laced throughout the story to offer context and different views across the world.
The illegal prison camp has been liberated, but now there's consequences that have to be faced for Rose, Maros, Harriet, and Jason. CC Robinson jumps between the four, so we always see what's happening to each.
The story, once again, is incredibly haunting as it is incredibly realistic. The story as a whole isn't exactly impossible, given that it takes political instability in a country for a new (and in this case) more dangerous power to rise in the shadows.
CC Robinson is an excellent young adult author, and once again, this book will be fabulous for the target age group as I can see lots of questions being generated, discussed, and debated.
It makes you think and question everything, while also makes you really feel for the 4 main characters as they battle for freedom, especially given the world we live in at the moment.
It's a great second book, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
Book Two in the Divided Series, Caged a young adult dystopian fiction which will suck you into the world of Queenstown.
There is some very interesting concepts in this book which whilst we would never dream of them happening in modern day life, I can imagine aspects sneaking in with some of the decisions seen across the world. But that’s what this book is, it’s a story about fighting political power, fighting against unprecedented rules and regulations and for the opportunities for all.
The strength and resolve the young characters in this book show is what makes you root through them and hope as you read on that they achieve their goal. Working against some council members who seek to oppress them and are not against using torture and willing for mass casualties to pile up to achieve their goal.
This is a tale of survival and not giving up! I loved the growth of Jason and Rose in this book, as well as the development of characters such as Marcos and Harriott. The more you learn about the operatives the more you want to be there with them rallying for their cause.
Enjoyable read and I look forward to how it all ends in book 3! As a young adult dystopiand novel this is a great series for those looking to delve into dystopian fiction but are unsure where to start.
Caged is the second book in the Divided series and it picks up from where the first book left off.
I absolutely loved Divided, rating it one of my top reads of 2025 so I was eager to read this book and it definitely didn’t disappoint!!
Caged is equally as fast paced and thrilling as Divided. There was less world building in this second instalment and more character development which felt just right. It is an action packed dystopian thriller that once again almost mirrors many things we see in the world today, in particular power, greed and division.
Of the four main protagonists, Rose is an absolute stand out in this book with both her stubbornness and fierce loyalty.
There is so much raw emotion in this book covering fear, mistrust and betrayal and it is so well written that you can almost imagine yourself there with the characters, sometimes frustrated by their actions while at other times finding humour in them.
The underlying message I took away from this book was hope. I didn’t think CC Robinson could top Divided but somehow she has done it. I cannot wait to read Book 3.
Thank you to Zooloos Book Tours and the author for the free review copy.
I’m so happy I got to be part of the ARC team for Caged, the latest book in the Divided series by C.C. Robinson 😊 This YA dystopian story had everything—action, heart, tension, and deep character development.
Rose is such a powerful protagonist. I love her strength, her loyalty, and how she’ll do anything to protect her friends, loved ones, and her city. I also really appreciated how much growth we see in characters like Marcos, Harriet, and Jason. They all felt so real and layered.
Caged made me feel everything—anger, fear, sadness, hope, even moments of joy and laughter. It’s one of those books that entertains you but also makes you think. The emotional depth really stood out to me.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of dystopian books or just curious, I highly recommend the Divided series—especially Caged! The story is gripping and the characters are unforgettable 🙌
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Besides the excellent plot of this second book, where Robinson once again surprises us with a story full of action and unexpected twists, and a storyline that makes it hard to put the book down, I think the element I’d like to highlight the most about Caged is the way Rose’s character develops throughout the story. In the first book, we got to know her and understand a bit about how she thinks and how she lives. However, due to the circumstances in this second book, we meet a new Rose: stronger, more empowered, and determined to save herself, no matter what, without waiting for others to do it for her. Throughout the book, we sometimes feel identified with her and, at other times, compassionate, as we see everything she has to face and all that goes through her mind in order to keep going. This is a book that goes beyond just action. It offers you a truly enjoyable reading experience and allows you to connect with the characters in a powerful and exceptional way.
This is book two of a series. I haven’t read the first book, but was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t feel lost. The plot of this book is explained well enough that the reader can follow the action. There are four main protagonists. The each live in different segregated parts of the city. The tale takes place after some apocalyptic event that has greatly reduced the population. There is an old and large abandoned city just outside the gates of the city they presently live in. These four people are the leaders of an underground resistance. There are two factions within the city’s official government. The main characters are caught between those groups as things turn violent. The story open with Rose who has been under house arrest. She is eventually picked up and placed in a real prison where she is tortured. The book does end with a satisfactory conclusion for this adventure, though it is clear there will be more to come in future books. The characters are well developed and the action is compelling. If you like series this is a good choice.
Buckle up, dystopia fans—Caged kicks things up a notch in the 2nd book of the Divided Series. It delivers more action, more emotion, and even more trouble for our fearless foursome: Rose, Marcos, Harriet, and Jason. With the fallout from a prison camp liberation hanging heavy, everyone’s trying to find their footing in a city teetering on chaos.
The book opens with Rose in prison, cut off from her allies and digging deeper into her edgy research. Meanwhile, Jason’s dealing with family drama, and Harriet finally gets her time to shine with a deeper backstory. The stakes? Oh, just a plan to destroy everything they’ve ever known—no big deal.
Intrigue is front and center here, but it’s the raw emotional punch and twisty relationships that really hook you. The friendships evolve, sparks fly, and Queenstown’s fate is still hanging by a thread. Caged is fast-paced, addictive, and somehow even better than the first. Bring on book three!
This time, the four friends —Rose, Marcos, Harriet, and Jason— must face not only the consequences of having escaped from a concentration camp but also a series of personal situations that take them through emotional and physical ups and downs, ultimately strengthening their bonds of friendship. Each character has a distinct personality that makes them unique and allows the reader to identify with one of them. This is a great book that can be helpful for adults who want their children to develop the habit of reading. It has all the elements to captivate young readers: adventure, action, friendship, and more. In addition, the way it is written makes the reading experience enjoyable and never monotonous—key aspects for attracting young readers and keeping their attention focused on the book.
Welcome to the new Federated Republic of America — where Queenstown is split into four areas based on skin tone and ethnicity: Ivory, Little Asia, Havana, and Obsidian. The government enforces this brutal segregation with towering sonic walls laced with glass and electrified to keep everyone in their place.
But some refuse to stay caged.
Rose, a brilliant physics student, is determined to tear those walls down — even if it means risking everything. Jason, mourning his mother and rebelling against his ruthless father, takes up the fight she started. Harriet is relentless, trying to save her wrongly imprisoned mother. And Marcos, hardened and loyal and would do anything to protect them.
They’re fighters. They’re survivors. And together, they’ll risk it all to change their world!!
This book was a fab read and by far one of the best dystopian books I've read!! Well written, packed with action and suspense! It's the 2nd instalment in this young adult dystopian world, the first being called Divided, and I loved how it picked up straight where the first left off.
It follows 4 friends as they fight against political oppression of the Federated Republic of America, where segregation due to race and ethnicity is enforced. Rose has been imprisoned for her enquisitive nature, and the book is so well written you feel as if you're right there with her throughout the horrific torture she endures and I was on the edge of my seat during her escape! The things this girl goes through is insane!
This book had me on edge several times, the truth this book is a crucial recommendation for adrenaline loving readers. The story always had me as a reader very attentive to what was going to happen, always with the expectation that Rose could escape. Now, I clicked a lot with the character of this main character, because she has a lot of strength, a lot of personality and a lot of mettle to take on everything she faces and the priority she can give to her own. The book has a lot of strength from several perspectives, it involves you and makes you nervous constantly, it's hard to let go, I read it in a jiffy.
Caged is the the second novel in the Divided series and is just has good if not better than the first. I adored Rose, our main protagonist of this one, and how she navigated the story. The pacing is brilliant and once again the world building is fantastic. I won’t spoil the plot but I will say that I am really enjoying this series so far and how Robinson has created a believable and enjoyable (if a dystopian novel can be enjoyable) society. The characters are all well rounded and believable too. A must read for fans of dystopian novels. As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
Oh my god, what did I just read? This was an amazing continuation.
This is another great cover. The colours are lovely (I love the shade of teal) and the design definitely suits the genres.
CC has written the book really well and it flows perfectly. She has seamlessly transitioned into this one following the events of Divided n
The setting is brilliant. The continued dystopian world building was excellent.
The characters are wonderful. They're still so rich and full of depth. I felt so sad for Rose. She definitely had a hard time of things in this book. I felt so sad for her!!
I really recommend this book and series. I am excited for the next installment!!
This phenomenal post apocalyptic series has an amazing ensemble cast of characters. Rather than facing off against zombies or other unrealistic threats, here the oppression based on greed and power of evil men is the threat. What courage does it take to stand up and fight back? Here the heroes are the small quiet voices who work for what's right. They are every man, woman and child who stays strong and keeps going against the odds. Action packed with thrilling, realistic adventures. Great series!
Caged by CC Robinson. Book 2 of the divided series. Wow. This starts of where book 1 finished. With Rose, Harriet, Marcus and Jason facing the aftermath of their roles in the liberation of the illegal prison camp. I was hooked from page one. I couldn't put it down. I love this series. Full of action. I felt like I was there watching everything happening. I loved the writing style and the story. I love the four characters. I don't have a favourite. I am certainly looking forward to the next book. I can't wait to see what happens next. I definitely recommend this book.
I'm back with this review for the second book in the Divided series, after reading book 1 - Divided - only a couple of days ago.
This book allows us to continue the story straight on from where we left off in the first book and for this reason, I definitely recommend that this series be read in order from the start.
I obviously can't talk about the plot at all here as this would definitely let slip some spoilers.
But, I can say that this was another exciting read.
We see the group navigating the consequences of the previous events and I loved that we are able to follow each of the different characters through the multi pov format.
Not only do we see the events through different eyes, but we also get to know the characters a little better too.
This is well written and engaging throughout.
It almost feels real which had me on edge, especially thought provoking wondering what life might look like in the future, if things continue.
A great series so far and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.