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Chains of the Union
I'm Elizabeth—caught between a past shrouded in betrayal and a future built on rebellion and dangerous love with Calix. In a world of broken memories and hidden powers, every step toward freedom reveals yet another burning secret that could set us all aflame.
In a world where forced unions and oppressive regimes rule every fractured corner, Elizabeth Allard finds herself on the brink of a revolution. Caught between a fate dictated by the elites and a secret power that could shatter the chains of control, she must confront treacherous alliances, haunted memories, and deadly betrayals—all while a ruthless governor’s grip tightens around her future. With every heartbeat, the stakes will Elizabeth embrace her newfound gift and ignite change, or will the darkness of her past drown her in despair?
In a world where forced unions and oppressive regimes rule every fractured corner, Elizabeth Allard finds herself on the brink of a revolution. Caught between a fate dictated by the elites and a secret power that could shatter the chains of control, she must confront treacherous alliances, haunted memories, and deadly betrayals—all while a ruthless governor’s grip tightens around her future. With every heartbeat, the stakes will Elizabeth embrace her newfound gift and ignite change, or will the darkness of her past drown her in despair?
361 pages, Paperback
Published June 27, 2025
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8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 29, 2025
Thank you to J.D. Crist for the free advanced reader copy, it was a privilege to read this early.
Elizabeth Allard is a beautifully layered heroine. At sixteen, her mission with the rogue group nearly succeeds, but a blood test reveals she is a MUT, captured by the Union and implanted with a memory-erasing communicator. Suddenly, she awakens believing she's lived her whole life on The Edge, raised by her grandmother, moments before she's about to be “auctioned” off as a bride.
But then Calix and his friends burst in, and Elizabeth’s past is jolted back into motion. As her memories return, of her parents' deaths, Calix’s love, and the intense desire for justice, her emotional journey becomes deeply compelling.
One thing I really appreciated was how the story unfolded in a back-and-forth structure. As Elizabeth’s memories return, the author slowly pieces together the bigger picture for us, and it’s incredibly effective. We move through the Edge, Twain, the Wastelands, the Capital, and the Union, it’s a richly imagined world. That said, I’d absolutely love to see a map in the next book. It would be such a fun and helpful addition for visualizing all these places, especially with how often we travel between them.
Elizabeth’s heart pivots between grief, rage, and purpose. Trauma pulls her to the brink, and she teeters on the edge of giving up. But with Calix and her friends as her anchor, she emerges from that darkness. She doesn’t abandon her drive for retribution, but she grows wiser and more strategic, prioritizing the safety of those she cares about.
I was captivated by her evolution, from a memory-wiped pawn to a force of justice, adamant on protecting the people she loves. And the few spice scenes scattered throughout were intense and passionate.
This story dives deep into loyalty, identity, and the power of choosing hope even when everything around you screams otherwise. Highly recommended for fans of emotionally charged dystopian sagas with heroism, redemption, and steely purpose.
Elizabeth Allard is a beautifully layered heroine. At sixteen, her mission with the rogue group nearly succeeds, but a blood test reveals she is a MUT, captured by the Union and implanted with a memory-erasing communicator. Suddenly, she awakens believing she's lived her whole life on The Edge, raised by her grandmother, moments before she's about to be “auctioned” off as a bride.
But then Calix and his friends burst in, and Elizabeth’s past is jolted back into motion. As her memories return, of her parents' deaths, Calix’s love, and the intense desire for justice, her emotional journey becomes deeply compelling.
One thing I really appreciated was how the story unfolded in a back-and-forth structure. As Elizabeth’s memories return, the author slowly pieces together the bigger picture for us, and it’s incredibly effective. We move through the Edge, Twain, the Wastelands, the Capital, and the Union, it’s a richly imagined world. That said, I’d absolutely love to see a map in the next book. It would be such a fun and helpful addition for visualizing all these places, especially with how often we travel between them.
Elizabeth’s heart pivots between grief, rage, and purpose. Trauma pulls her to the brink, and she teeters on the edge of giving up. But with Calix and her friends as her anchor, she emerges from that darkness. She doesn’t abandon her drive for retribution, but she grows wiser and more strategic, prioritizing the safety of those she cares about.
I was captivated by her evolution, from a memory-wiped pawn to a force of justice, adamant on protecting the people she loves. And the few spice scenes scattered throughout were intense and passionate.
This story dives deep into loyalty, identity, and the power of choosing hope even when everything around you screams otherwise. Highly recommended for fans of emotionally charged dystopian sagas with heroism, redemption, and steely purpose.
September 23, 2025
Chains of the Union pulled me in right away with its dystopian world-building. The Union, with its layered rings from the Capital to the Edge, was fascinating to explore, and I loved how the laws around mutations and marriage created high stakes from the start. It gave me Handmaid’s Tale vibes with its examinations, control, and heavy societal expectations.
Elizabeth is a complex main character, and I enjoyed seeing her growth once her memories began returning and she learned to use her ability to shield and absorb others’ powers. The powers themselves add another layer of intrigue—Thomas bending metal, Maddie’s calming influence, and Calix’s ability to wield ice and cold were all exciting elements that made the story stand out. Grams was a standout character for me—her voice added warmth, strength, and hope to the story. I also appreciated that the Capital’s ruler was a woman, even though she’s written as power-hungry and cruel.
On the flip side, some pacing and character-building felt rushed. Elizabeth’s emotional swings—from despair to romance to rebellion—sometimes came across as abrupt. Her relationship with Calix in particular shifted quickly from distrust to intimacy. Secondary characters like Malic, Thomas, Maddie, and Garrett felt underdeveloped, though I suspect future books may expand on them.J.D. Crist
The plot had a few twists that caught me off guard, especially when Calix appeared to die only to survive by freezing his own heart with his powers. The ending leaves plenty of room for the series to continue, with the rebellion set-up, hidden cities, and political upheaval hinting at what’s to come.
Overall, I enjoyed Chains of the Union. Despite some rough edges and rushed transitions, it’s a strong start to what feels like it will be a layered, emotionally-charged dystopian series.
Elizabeth is a complex main character, and I enjoyed seeing her growth once her memories began returning and she learned to use her ability to shield and absorb others’ powers. The powers themselves add another layer of intrigue—Thomas bending metal, Maddie’s calming influence, and Calix’s ability to wield ice and cold were all exciting elements that made the story stand out. Grams was a standout character for me—her voice added warmth, strength, and hope to the story. I also appreciated that the Capital’s ruler was a woman, even though she’s written as power-hungry and cruel.
On the flip side, some pacing and character-building felt rushed. Elizabeth’s emotional swings—from despair to romance to rebellion—sometimes came across as abrupt. Her relationship with Calix in particular shifted quickly from distrust to intimacy. Secondary characters like Malic, Thomas, Maddie, and Garrett felt underdeveloped, though I suspect future books may expand on them.J.D. Crist
The plot had a few twists that caught me off guard, especially when Calix appeared to die only to survive by freezing his own heart with his powers. The ending leaves plenty of room for the series to continue, with the rebellion set-up, hidden cities, and political upheaval hinting at what’s to come.
Overall, I enjoyed Chains of the Union. Despite some rough edges and rushed transitions, it’s a strong start to what feels like it will be a layered, emotionally-charged dystopian series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
Chains of the Union is a dystopian romantasy that begins with our FMC, Elizabeth, as she makes the hard decision to be sold in a bride auction in order to ensure a good life for her only family, her grandmother. Things don’t go as planned and Elizabeth finds herself being thrown into a rebellion between magical MUTS and The Union that controls the 7 rings of society.
This is an interesting story with magic, romance, action, wicked rulers, and self discovery. This story is mostly narration and I really enjoy some good banter, so the lack of dialogue was disappointing.
I felt the story dragged on with unimportant details at times. Then there were scenes that needed a lot more detail but were just skipped over like they were no big deal… when in fact, they were very big deals. Our FMC did not have the expected emotional reactions. I was freaking out at times while she was way too calm and accepting of situations.
I was immediately interested in this book due to its strong start with the bride auction. As the story goes on Elizabeth learns her memories were altered and nothing is as it seems and the more she learns, the more she wants vengeance. The story only gets more interesting as magic powers of metal bending, ice wielding, emotional manipulation, and many more are introduced.
If you’re someone who reads for vibes and enjoys the dystopian vibes of Divergent, then Chains of the Union is a good read for you.
This is an interesting story with magic, romance, action, wicked rulers, and self discovery. This story is mostly narration and I really enjoy some good banter, so the lack of dialogue was disappointing.
I felt the story dragged on with unimportant details at times. Then there were scenes that needed a lot more detail but were just skipped over like they were no big deal… when in fact, they were very big deals. Our FMC did not have the expected emotional reactions. I was freaking out at times while she was way too calm and accepting of situations.
I was immediately interested in this book due to its strong start with the bride auction. As the story goes on Elizabeth learns her memories were altered and nothing is as it seems and the more she learns, the more she wants vengeance. The story only gets more interesting as magic powers of metal bending, ice wielding, emotional manipulation, and many more are introduced.
If you’re someone who reads for vibes and enjoys the dystopian vibes of Divergent, then Chains of the Union is a good read for you.
January 25, 2026
The Chains of the Union by J.D. Crist was phenomenal! It’s not about over-the-top apocalyptic chaos, it’s about the quiet, sneaky ways control creeps into people’s lives, and it made me stop more than once and think about my own choices.
The Union felt so real. It doesn’t need violence to rule, it rules through fear, comfort, and sheer exhaustion. I even found myself understanding why people went along with it, even when I didn’t want to. It made me reflect on times I’ve stayed quiet, avoided conflict, or gone along with things I didn’t fully agree with, just because pushing back felt too much.
The characters really stuck with me. They aren’t heroes or villains, they’re flawed, scared, and painfully human. Their struggles and compromises felt so real, and Crist’s writing made me feel every bit of that tension, even after I finished the book.
This story made me think a lot about freedom, survival, and the cost of feeling safe. It’s more than a dystopian story, it’s a warning. And honestly? I can’t wait to see where Crist takes it next.
The Union felt so real. It doesn’t need violence to rule, it rules through fear, comfort, and sheer exhaustion. I even found myself understanding why people went along with it, even when I didn’t want to. It made me reflect on times I’ve stayed quiet, avoided conflict, or gone along with things I didn’t fully agree with, just because pushing back felt too much.
The characters really stuck with me. They aren’t heroes or villains, they’re flawed, scared, and painfully human. Their struggles and compromises felt so real, and Crist’s writing made me feel every bit of that tension, even after I finished the book.
This story made me think a lot about freedom, survival, and the cost of feeling safe. It’s more than a dystopian story, it’s a warning. And honestly? I can’t wait to see where Crist takes it next.
December 5, 2025
Wow! This book commanded my attention from page one and it didn’t let up. The author’s style of writing and the world building were fantastic! Clearly able to visualize as if I was there among them.
Our FMC, Elizabeth Allard, realizes she’s not who she thinks she is, memory wiped, identity stolen, and facing a bride‑auction, my heart clenched. As the story unfolds, with memories coming back, powers awakening, and the oppressive regime of the “Union” looming over everything, I found myself rooting for her every single step.
The romance with the MMC, Calix Harkin adds tension, warmth, and a touch of hope to an otherwise brutal, controlling world. With high-stakes danger, political intrigue, and a slow-burning romance, this book kept me turning pages late into each night. A thrilling dystopian ride I won’t forget anytime soon. If you love dystopian worlds full of secrets, power, rebellion, and a heroine who fights back then this is absolutely one to read.
Our FMC, Elizabeth Allard, realizes she’s not who she thinks she is, memory wiped, identity stolen, and facing a bride‑auction, my heart clenched. As the story unfolds, with memories coming back, powers awakening, and the oppressive regime of the “Union” looming over everything, I found myself rooting for her every single step.
The romance with the MMC, Calix Harkin adds tension, warmth, and a touch of hope to an otherwise brutal, controlling world. With high-stakes danger, political intrigue, and a slow-burning romance, this book kept me turning pages late into each night. A thrilling dystopian ride I won’t forget anytime soon. If you love dystopian worlds full of secrets, power, rebellion, and a heroine who fights back then this is absolutely one to read.
October 6, 2025
3.5⭐️ Rounded up.
I had the opportunity to ARC read Chains of the Union. Life has a way of getting in the way, so I was not able to post before release day. I enjoyed this book when I started. When something major happened I almost gave up because I was so upset, however, I really wanted to push through it and I am so happy I did. There were some plot twists I did not expect.
I will say something that bothered me is when pov changed. POV is not marked so you really have to pay attention to all that is happening to know when the pov changes. Not a turn away for me, but prefer when there are multiple povs for the change to be noted.
All in all this was a fun story with dystopian vibes similar to Divergent and Hunger Games.
I had the opportunity to ARC read Chains of the Union. Life has a way of getting in the way, so I was not able to post before release day. I enjoyed this book when I started. When something major happened I almost gave up because I was so upset, however, I really wanted to push through it and I am so happy I did. There were some plot twists I did not expect.
I will say something that bothered me is when pov changed. POV is not marked so you really have to pay attention to all that is happening to know when the pov changes. Not a turn away for me, but prefer when there are multiple povs for the change to be noted.
All in all this was a fun story with dystopian vibes similar to Divergent and Hunger Games.
June 20, 2025
side female maddie
Mfc Elizabeth (bride for auction
Mmc calix harkin rouge king
Msc joe male
Bride auctions and extraction s
Mutations
Union ball auction money given to caretaker
Ryan buys Elizabeth at bride auction
Oooh stolen and gram is helping juicy!
The communicator sounds toxic
This is a very interesting story. Revenge, love, murder, poison, mutants.
I highly recommend this book. Toward the end there is a spicy scene.
Mfc Elizabeth (bride for auction
Mmc calix harkin rouge king
Msc joe male
Bride auctions and extraction s
Mutations
Union ball auction money given to caretaker
Ryan buys Elizabeth at bride auction
Oooh stolen and gram is helping juicy!
The communicator sounds toxic
This is a very interesting story. Revenge, love, murder, poison, mutants.
I highly recommend this book. Toward the end there is a spicy scene.
June 28, 2025
No spoilers, read for yourself. Glad I was able to read a new author and enjoy the story. I loved all the characters and the world she has created. There's love, special powers, rebellion, strong FMM, wonderful supporting characters and sadness. There is some spice but nothing overdone. Maybe the next book could have just a bit more. go check her out on tiktok
September 27, 2025
⭐️ ARC Review ⭐️
Chains of the Union gave me Hunger Games and the Uglies series vibes and I couldn’t get enough of it. As a lover of dystopian novels growing up, I was so happy to find one that had matured like I have. I enjoyed the twists and turns of the story and really hope there’s more to come.
Chains of the Union gave me Hunger Games and the Uglies series vibes and I couldn’t get enough of it. As a lover of dystopian novels growing up, I was so happy to find one that had matured like I have. I enjoyed the twists and turns of the story and really hope there’s more to come.
June 26, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book and I really enjoyed it. The character development was great and just within the first chapter you get hooked and want to keep reading. This was a 4.2 stars for me and I will definitely be checking out JD’s other books!
November 30, 2025
great read!!
J.D. had me hooked just off of line one. Absolutely loved this story and this book. Highly recommend and I’ll be buying the hard copy for myself and my sister, as i think she will enjoy it as well 💕
J.D. had me hooked just off of line one. Absolutely loved this story and this book. Highly recommend and I’ll be buying the hard copy for myself and my sister, as i think she will enjoy it as well 💕
June 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I had a hard time to stop reading it. Love the plot twist. I can't wait for the next one.
June 28, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book and the plot twist at the end had me yelling no I need the next book.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews