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Silver Elite #2
Broken Dove
In the heart-pounding sequel to the New York Times bestselling dystopian romance Silver Elite, lines will be crossed, loyalties will be tested, and the fight for the Continent is only just beginning as Wren Darlington finds herself caught in the middle of two one for the fate of her home and another for the fate of her heart.
LINES WILL BE CROSSED.
After blowing her cover as a double agent within Silver Elite and fleeing the Prime-controlled capital, Wren Darlington is finally safe behind allied lines. As her lover and former commander Cross Redden works to disrupt the Primes from inside their ranks, Wren turns her focus toward assisting the Uprising in overthrowing their rule once and for all.
LOYALTIES WILL BE TESTED.
Though she’s back among her own people, trust is hard-won and hidden agendas abound on the Mod base. And beyond those walls, Wren can’t help but worry that Cross is keeping secrets of his own . . . secrets that could jeopardize everything. Complicating matters even further is her shocking reunion with hotshot fighter pilot and undercover operative Grayson Blake. Once her closest friend in Silver Elite, Gray seems to understand Wren on a level she never thought possible.
AND THE FIGHT FOR THE CONTINENT IS ONLY JUST BEGINNING.
With the war between Mods and Primes growing more brutal by the day, and with her own role in the conflict becoming more essential than ever, Wren must confront some gut-wrenching questions. Who is she fighting for . . . and who is she willing to lose?
LINES WILL BE CROSSED.
After blowing her cover as a double agent within Silver Elite and fleeing the Prime-controlled capital, Wren Darlington is finally safe behind allied lines. As her lover and former commander Cross Redden works to disrupt the Primes from inside their ranks, Wren turns her focus toward assisting the Uprising in overthrowing their rule once and for all.
LOYALTIES WILL BE TESTED.
Though she’s back among her own people, trust is hard-won and hidden agendas abound on the Mod base. And beyond those walls, Wren can’t help but worry that Cross is keeping secrets of his own . . . secrets that could jeopardize everything. Complicating matters even further is her shocking reunion with hotshot fighter pilot and undercover operative Grayson Blake. Once her closest friend in Silver Elite, Gray seems to understand Wren on a level she never thought possible.
AND THE FIGHT FOR THE CONTINENT IS ONLY JUST BEGINNING.
With the war between Mods and Primes growing more brutal by the day, and with her own role in the conflict becoming more essential than ever, Wren must confront some gut-wrenching questions. Who is she fighting for . . . and who is she willing to lose?
593 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2026
About the author
Dani Francis
2 books4,768 followersDani Francis is the New York Times bestselling author of Silver Elite. She is an avid reader, a lover of all things breakfast, and a hopeless romantic. When she is not creating high-stakes fantasy worlds and complex characters, you can find Dani spending time with family or trying to figure out why the printer never works.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 501 reviews
Currently Reading
May 15, 2026OMG this bad boiii is in my hands!! Silver Elite was an average read for me but I'm oddly feeling super excited for this one. Going in with the hopes this is better than book one.
Want to Read
August 13, 2025I need this book like I need air 😫 and the cover is so prettyy!!
May 14, 2026
⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️ Lines will be crossed and loyalties will be tested but its only a beginning to a villanous start...
Where do I begin? I have lots of thoughts and no right words to fully express how much I enjoyed the continuation of this story. Silver Elite was a vibe. The author came out of nowhere and the book swept the internet by a storm. I thought it brought back 'dystopian' elements with such ease and delivered a fast paced, heart-pounding story that can literally appeal to everyone on some level. It was the easiest 5 star read for me and even though it wasn't written in an 'epic' way, I still strongly believe that its simplicity made it more entertaining and perfect for anyone who wants to get into romantasy genre without the headache of complex world building and political intrigue. I know that a lot of readers were unhappy about the dystopian elements not really being dystopian and felt that the book mainly brushed on a lot of plot points and made the characters seem very superficial compared to the romance that felt more like a wattpad story. I also think a lot of readers always compare new books to the major dogs--The Hunger Games, The Divergent, ACOTAR, leaving no room to breathe for anything new to develop in their own way. Lets be real--fantasy genre is a mixed bag of all the common core tropes and the inspiration comes form the big players. With that being said, the cross over will always be there. What one may like, may be hated by another person. I always like to go in with an open mindset & formulate my own thoughts--so my advice is, for anyone who is reading this review.. go in with an open mind, don't compare or contrast and just enjoy the ride and if you don't like it, its ok!
This review will have spoilers ahead! DO NOT READ FURTHER.
Now on to the story:
Silver Elite ended with a major cliffhanger. Wren and Cross survived but they are separated. Her true identity is exposed, we learn a huge twist about her past and her parents. The Uprising now has her and she no longer knows which side she belong to. We also learn that her friend from Silver Elite block is a flight commander, works for The Uprising and is very much alive. Cross, a Mod himself, is now exposed and in danger. He is taken back to the Command base and gets locked up. His brother, Travis Redden is now the general and the face of the government/regime.
Broken Dove begins with Cross locked up in a cell, beaten and tortured by his younger brother Roe. The story then follows Wren and her journey for 98% of the book where we see major character development, a lot of action, growth and sharpening of her skills while minimally interacting with Cross. We meet a lot of new characters and learn more about The Uprising-about their base and operations, their politics, their powers, their people. Unlike Silver Elite, the sequel heavily focuses on political manipulation and hidden agendas. Where Silver Elite lacked, Broken Dove made up for it. It shined in character development, dystopian elements and a slower burn of romantic tension/conflict. In essence, this book felt more GROUNDED in solid world building and while it may come off as BORING and a CHORE to get through--in my opinion it's more SOLID than Silver Elite. It's giving readers a better understanding of the rebellion and the allied territory portraying the downsides and the upsides of the cause, the drive, the greed. Silver Elite exposed us to the Prime-controlled capital, while here much of the novel is rooted in the Blue Dagger base of the Uprising. We learn that nothing is as entirely heroic as it may seem! There is so much action in this book that drives the plot forward, it was honestly so interesting, I could not put this book down. I really felt it was the heart of the book and a major improvement (in terms of propulsive writing) from that of Silver Elite.
Through out the story, Cross and Wren have minimal communication. Since Cross remains embedded within the Prime Regime, their only way of communication is telepathically. Distance and personal beliefs put a heavy strain on their relationship and the romance in this novel becomes complicated. I was NOT ready for what came for Wren and Cross..it was brisk, brash and very cutthroat. I wanted more than just a a single page but I’ll bite my tongue now before I say something I shouldn’t… so I waited and waited some more for some justification, we ultimately get none. But as quick as that was, in fairness Francis was leading us to this point since the very end of Silver Elite. They were on opposite ends of war, it was crystal clear that things would lead to what it led to and Francis prepared us with many cues and easter eggs. It was bound to happen! Not saying I liked how it happened and I certainly wanted MUCH more and after everything Cross has done for Wren, he did not deserve that treatment.
In my opinion, the emotional stakes were much higher here. There is a SERIOUS (might I say delicious?) growing (emotional) tension between Cross and her friend Grayson Blake (known as Kaine from Silver Elite). What Wren has/had with Cross in the first novel..was so complicated, impulsive, bold even? They had this hot tension, desire and burning lust and this intense enigma around them, you just couldn't look away…Their chemistry was off the charts and that spice was amazing! Entering Broken Dove...I did NOT think this would happen...but I was ALL IN (ok maybe I was a little feral) for GRAYSON. I stand my ground when I say this...I LOVED the love triangle here! Grayson just understands Wren in different ways. He's good for her, it’s easy being with him, he is open with how he feels about her. I think he is quite a romantic and has good intentions. I think he loves her in his own way and I loved them together and I loved their spice. I am LOST at who is better for her, I just need book 3 to make that decision!
Before I go into the last 10% of this book, I wanted to point out a few more things: side characters.
Unlike Silver Elite, Broken Dove really shined in development of side characters and their importance to the story. For those who have read Silver Elite, we know that Cross's best friend Xavier helps Wren escape. He goes to the other side with her but The Uprising imprisons him because he is obviously a Prime who cannot be trusted. I wanted to praise Dani Francis for giving all side characters, especially Xaviers, more voice and time in this book. Xavier added the perfect comedic relief amidst all the heavy layering. His fool like demeanor was a perfect addition to this book--any time he spoke, I laughed. He sort of reminded me of Carrion Swift (Quicksilver/Brimstone) and of Kenji (Shatter Me series)--so chaotic and carefree, but what he values the most is friendship and it was so palpable in this book. His loyalties are to himself and Wren and no one else; I reveled in that friendship! There are other side characters that are very crucial to the plot, betrayals and twists--so I'm not going to say anything!! PAY ATTENTION!
In the last 10-15% of the story..this is where SHIT GOES DOWN. Yes, so much happens. It's entertaining, you're going to be at the edge of your seat and when you get to the VERY last chapter, expect to be hard slapped by your very missed character! DANI FRANCIS YOU AND I NEED TO HAVE A TALK. That cliffhanger was something else. It left me with so many questions, so much emotion and NOW we really enter very UNCHARTED WATERS.
HAPPY READING!
Where do I begin? I have lots of thoughts and no right words to fully express how much I enjoyed the continuation of this story. Silver Elite was a vibe. The author came out of nowhere and the book swept the internet by a storm. I thought it brought back 'dystopian' elements with such ease and delivered a fast paced, heart-pounding story that can literally appeal to everyone on some level. It was the easiest 5 star read for me and even though it wasn't written in an 'epic' way, I still strongly believe that its simplicity made it more entertaining and perfect for anyone who wants to get into romantasy genre without the headache of complex world building and political intrigue. I know that a lot of readers were unhappy about the dystopian elements not really being dystopian and felt that the book mainly brushed on a lot of plot points and made the characters seem very superficial compared to the romance that felt more like a wattpad story. I also think a lot of readers always compare new books to the major dogs--The Hunger Games, The Divergent, ACOTAR, leaving no room to breathe for anything new to develop in their own way. Lets be real--fantasy genre is a mixed bag of all the common core tropes and the inspiration comes form the big players. With that being said, the cross over will always be there. What one may like, may be hated by another person. I always like to go in with an open mindset & formulate my own thoughts--so my advice is, for anyone who is reading this review.. go in with an open mind, don't compare or contrast and just enjoy the ride and if you don't like it, its ok!
This review will have spoilers ahead! DO NOT READ FURTHER.
Now on to the story:
Silver Elite ended with a major cliffhanger. Wren and Cross survived but they are separated. Her true identity is exposed, we learn a huge twist about her past and her parents. The Uprising now has her and she no longer knows which side she belong to. We also learn that her friend from Silver Elite block is a flight commander, works for The Uprising and is very much alive. Cross, a Mod himself, is now exposed and in danger. He is taken back to the Command base and gets locked up. His brother, Travis Redden is now the general and the face of the government/regime.
Broken Dove begins with Cross locked up in a cell, beaten and tortured by his younger brother Roe. The story then follows Wren and her journey for 98% of the book where we see major character development, a lot of action, growth and sharpening of her skills while minimally interacting with Cross. We meet a lot of new characters and learn more about The Uprising-about their base and operations, their politics, their powers, their people. Unlike Silver Elite, the sequel heavily focuses on political manipulation and hidden agendas. Where Silver Elite lacked, Broken Dove made up for it. It shined in character development, dystopian elements and a slower burn of romantic tension/conflict. In essence, this book felt more GROUNDED in solid world building and while it may come off as BORING and a CHORE to get through--in my opinion it's more SOLID than Silver Elite. It's giving readers a better understanding of the rebellion and the allied territory portraying the downsides and the upsides of the cause, the drive, the greed. Silver Elite exposed us to the Prime-controlled capital, while here much of the novel is rooted in the Blue Dagger base of the Uprising. We learn that nothing is as entirely heroic as it may seem! There is so much action in this book that drives the plot forward, it was honestly so interesting, I could not put this book down. I really felt it was the heart of the book and a major improvement (in terms of propulsive writing) from that of Silver Elite.
Through out the story, Cross and Wren have minimal communication. Since Cross remains embedded within the Prime Regime, their only way of communication is telepathically. Distance and personal beliefs put a heavy strain on their relationship and the romance in this novel becomes complicated. I was NOT ready for what came for Wren and Cross..it was brisk, brash and very cutthroat. I wanted more than just a a single page but I’ll bite my tongue now before I say something I shouldn’t… so I waited and waited some more for some justification, we ultimately get none. But as quick as that was, in fairness Francis was leading us to this point since the very end of Silver Elite. They were on opposite ends of war, it was crystal clear that things would lead to what it led to and Francis prepared us with many cues and easter eggs. It was bound to happen! Not saying I liked how it happened and I certainly wanted MUCH more and after everything Cross has done for Wren, he did not deserve that treatment.
In my opinion, the emotional stakes were much higher here. There is a SERIOUS (might I say delicious?) growing (emotional) tension between Cross and her friend Grayson Blake (known as Kaine from Silver Elite). What Wren has/had with Cross in the first novel..was so complicated, impulsive, bold even? They had this hot tension, desire and burning lust and this intense enigma around them, you just couldn't look away…Their chemistry was off the charts and that spice was amazing! Entering Broken Dove...I did NOT think this would happen...but I was ALL IN (ok maybe I was a little feral) for GRAYSON. I stand my ground when I say this...I LOVED the love triangle here! Grayson just understands Wren in different ways. He's good for her, it’s easy being with him, he is open with how he feels about her. I think he is quite a romantic and has good intentions. I think he loves her in his own way and I loved them together and I loved their spice. I am LOST at who is better for her, I just need book 3 to make that decision!
Before I go into the last 10% of this book, I wanted to point out a few more things: side characters.
Unlike Silver Elite, Broken Dove really shined in development of side characters and their importance to the story. For those who have read Silver Elite, we know that Cross's best friend Xavier helps Wren escape. He goes to the other side with her but The Uprising imprisons him because he is obviously a Prime who cannot be trusted. I wanted to praise Dani Francis for giving all side characters, especially Xaviers, more voice and time in this book. Xavier added the perfect comedic relief amidst all the heavy layering. His fool like demeanor was a perfect addition to this book--any time he spoke, I laughed. He sort of reminded me of Carrion Swift (Quicksilver/Brimstone) and of Kenji (Shatter Me series)--so chaotic and carefree, but what he values the most is friendship and it was so palpable in this book. His loyalties are to himself and Wren and no one else; I reveled in that friendship! There are other side characters that are very crucial to the plot, betrayals and twists--so I'm not going to say anything!! PAY ATTENTION!
In the last 10-15% of the story..this is where SHIT GOES DOWN. Yes, so much happens. It's entertaining, you're going to be at the edge of your seat and when you get to the VERY last chapter, expect to be hard slapped by your very missed character! DANI FRANCIS YOU AND I NEED TO HAVE A TALK. That cliffhanger was something else. It left me with so many questions, so much emotion and NOW we really enter very UNCHARTED WATERS.
HAPPY READING!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Currently Reading
May 13, 2026ITS TIMEEEEE 🗣️🗣️🗣️
DaisyWolf are coming home to meee 🤭😋💗🌷🌸💐🎀🕊️
***
You don’t understand how perfect that cover is 😫🤚
I cannottttt wait for my daisywolf to come home 🙏
DaisyWolf are coming home to meee 🤭😋💗🌷🌸💐🎀🕊️
***
You don’t understand how perfect that cover is 😫🤚
I cannottttt wait for my daisywolf to come home 🙏
May 4, 2026
4.5⭐️ I am so invested in these characters and this story, I couldn't put it down!
It took a turn that I didn't expect but LOVED!
It focused a lot more on the politics, the effects of war and picking between the lesser of two evils.
While also making me giggle and kick my feet.
I loved Silver Elite a tiny bit more (I can’t say why because it’s a spoiler) but thats why this got 4.5
But if you loved Silver Elite and don’t mind the turn this one takes, you should enjoy the rollercoaster 😅
It took a turn that I didn't expect but LOVED!
It focused a lot more on the politics, the effects of war and picking between the lesser of two evils.
While also making me giggle and kick my feet.
I loved Silver Elite a tiny bit more (I can’t say why because it’s a spoiler) but thats why this got 4.5
But if you loved Silver Elite and don’t mind the turn this one takes, you should enjoy the rollercoaster 😅
Want to Read
August 11, 2025Glad we won’t have to wait too long for this one! For some reason I was worried it would be years… 😅
![Profile Image for Saranya [hiatus].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1777133106i/187457635._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
ღthe-nope-list
May 12, 2026IT'S RELEASE DAY!!
Spoiled the story for myself and I’m not even mad about it. It sounds great, but I’m holding off on reading until the third book comes out. Future me will thank me.
because what do you mean
that there is
a love triangle?!!
After everything that happened between Wren and Cross, there's a third person involved and it's not just anything casual like flirting or stuff but 100% intimacy?!!
Like Cross thinks he’s feeling her death but he’s actually just feeling her replacement. Wren playing domestic bliss with this new guy while Cross rots in his own grief?!!
WHAT. IS. THIS.
Spoiled the story for myself and I’m not even mad about it. It sounds great, but I’m holding off on reading until the third book comes out. Future me will thank me.
because what do you mean
that there is
a love triangle?!!
After everything that happened between Wren and Cross, there's a third person involved and it's not just anything casual like flirting or stuff but 100% intimacy?!!
Like Cross thinks he’s feeling her death but he’s actually just feeling her replacement. Wren playing domestic bliss with this new guy while Cross rots in his own grief?!!
WHAT. IS. THIS.
May 15, 2026
4.75 or 5🌟 can’t decide yet
Bro…. that ending…..!!!!!!! i’m sorry I’m gonna need a minute or like maybe the night to process everything that happened in this book….. SO GOOD. Dani Francis just set the next book up to be so good, again. Omg I can’t believe I have to wait another fucking year for the next book 😭 Review to come!!!
_______________________________________________
pre-read 🧡🕊️
it’s time!!!!
Bro…. that ending…..!!!!!!! i’m sorry I’m gonna need a minute or like maybe the night to process everything that happened in this book….. SO GOOD. Dani Francis just set the next book up to be so good, again. Omg I can’t believe I have to wait another fucking year for the next book 😭 Review to come!!!
_______________________________________________
pre-read 🧡🕊️
it’s time!!!!
anticipated-books
October 11, 2025➤My excitement to read that book is an understatement🙏
May 7, 2026
4.5⭐️ An absolute clusterfuck but I ATE IT UP!!!
Ahhhh! The ending!!!! WHAT A TEASE!!! This entire book had me screaming WTF?! WTF?! WTF?! Especially in the last several chapters. It was an emotional roller coaster all the way to the very end.
Broken Dove is an incredible sequel full of new adventures, new friendships, twists, turns, betrayal, and revelations. But honestly, I don’t know how I feel about *redacted. It kind of broke my heart and left me feeling uneasy. I’m here for it…cautiously. And definitely with some side eye. 😒🫣😆
But wow. What a story! I ate it up! And it was simply unputdownable. There was something exciting in every chapter. I devoured this fast paced story and fell in love with some new characters. Mako, Gray, and Xavier especially.
OMG, I cannot wait to see everyone’s reactions to this story and relive your shock, denial, and heartbreak. It was so freaking good even with the *redacted. I’m still in denial. 👀
But I NEED BOOK 3 IMMEDIATELY!!! Because the shit is about to hit the fan!!! 😳😬🫣
Thank you so much to Del Rey for the gifted book.
***************************************************************
Finished: ahhhh!!!! The ending.😩 What a tease.
Update: Only a few chapters left and this book is the start of my villain origin story.😩
Update: DelRey is sending me an ARC! I CANNOT CONTAIN MY EXCITEMENT!!!!😆 I will be anxiously stalking my mailbox until it arrives. 🫶🏻
I NEED THIS NOOOWWWW! Silver Elite emotionally waterboarded me and I fear Broken Dove is going to finish the job. Whoever this anonymous menace of an author is, just know you’ve ruined me. Ruined!! I don’t know your name, but I do know I’d sell my soul for your drafts. How dare you hide behind a curtain of mystery while casually dropping one of my favorite reads this year!! Come out and face me, coward (or don’t, hehe just kidding) Just PLEASE keep writing in this world!
Ahhhh! The ending!!!! WHAT A TEASE!!! This entire book had me screaming WTF?! WTF?! WTF?! Especially in the last several chapters. It was an emotional roller coaster all the way to the very end.
Broken Dove is an incredible sequel full of new adventures, new friendships, twists, turns, betrayal, and revelations. But honestly, I don’t know how I feel about *redacted. It kind of broke my heart and left me feeling uneasy. I’m here for it…cautiously. And definitely with some side eye. 😒🫣😆
But wow. What a story! I ate it up! And it was simply unputdownable. There was something exciting in every chapter. I devoured this fast paced story and fell in love with some new characters. Mako, Gray, and Xavier especially.
OMG, I cannot wait to see everyone’s reactions to this story and relive your shock, denial, and heartbreak. It was so freaking good even with the *redacted. I’m still in denial. 👀
But I NEED BOOK 3 IMMEDIATELY!!! Because the shit is about to hit the fan!!! 😳😬🫣
Thank you so much to Del Rey for the gifted book.
***************************************************************
Finished: ahhhh!!!! The ending.😩 What a tease.
Update: Only a few chapters left and this book is the start of my villain origin story.😩
Update: DelRey is sending me an ARC! I CANNOT CONTAIN MY EXCITEMENT!!!!😆 I will be anxiously stalking my mailbox until it arrives. 🫶🏻
I NEED THIS NOOOWWWW! Silver Elite emotionally waterboarded me and I fear Broken Dove is going to finish the job. Whoever this anonymous menace of an author is, just know you’ve ruined me. Ruined!! I don’t know your name, but I do know I’d sell my soul for your drafts. How dare you hide behind a curtain of mystery while casually dropping one of my favorite reads this year!! Come out and face me, coward (or don’t, hehe just kidding) Just PLEASE keep writing in this world!
May 12, 2026
WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK WAS THAT?!
Such a disappointment in the direction this book was taken - my advice if loved Wren and Cross treat Silver Elite as a standalone and come up with your own happy ending as this second book is diabolical. Had to come back to this review and just say this is giving Oro/Grim vibes if you know you know and I don’t like it.
I loathe love triangles and this is like one of the worst ones I’ve read?
*Spoilers* and no this was no some minor crushing on two guys situation like with powerless where Kai was the obvious choice. No, this was a full on relationship with Kaine/Gray for MONTHS and even I love yous were shared.
If I’m honest Cross appeared maybe for like 15% of the book overall? My girl Wren started off strong and she didn’t let the flirtatious ways of Kaine/Gray sway her then all of sudden? It’s like a switch flipped and it was honestly painful to read.
Now I know some will argue Cross and Wren broke up but come on! He is the obvious choice but THIS BOOK we had a whole new MMC? Like this wasn’t just a fleeting kiss it was a whole relationship so I’m like who is the real MMC?
The last chapter hello??? Poor Cross has been mourning Wren think she was dead as he couldn’t feel the mental connection whilst she’s playing house with Gray? No sorry, as love triangles go this was just pure EVIL
Dani Francis do better Cross got done dirty and quite frankly with the way it’s gone I don’t think Wren deserves him!
Such a disappointment in the direction this book was taken - my advice if loved Wren and Cross treat Silver Elite as a standalone and come up with your own happy ending as this second book is diabolical. Had to come back to this review and just say this is giving Oro/Grim vibes if you know you know and I don’t like it.
I loathe love triangles and this is like one of the worst ones I’ve read?
*Spoilers* and no this was no some minor crushing on two guys situation like with powerless where Kai was the obvious choice. No, this was a full on relationship with Kaine/Gray for MONTHS and even I love yous were shared.
If I’m honest Cross appeared maybe for like 15% of the book overall? My girl Wren started off strong and she didn’t let the flirtatious ways of Kaine/Gray sway her then all of sudden? It’s like a switch flipped and it was honestly painful to read.
Now I know some will argue Cross and Wren broke up but come on! He is the obvious choice but THIS BOOK we had a whole new MMC? Like this wasn’t just a fleeting kiss it was a whole relationship so I’m like who is the real MMC?
The last chapter hello??? Poor Cross has been mourning Wren think she was dead as he couldn’t feel the mental connection whilst she’s playing house with Gray? No sorry, as love triangles go this was just pure EVIL
Dani Francis do better Cross got done dirty and quite frankly with the way it’s gone I don’t think Wren deserves him!
May 14, 2026
Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuck. I went into this thinking that the story would conclude that which was started in Silver Elite. Wrong. This was an amazingly devastating interim book.
So much life lost. Poor Mako. But a huge Kudos to Prince!!!! If only he finished the job.
Feel so sorry for Poppy too.
The way the book ended.......a helicopter crash? Really?
Now that Cross is back, what will happen to Grayson? I kind of liked a Wren with Grayson more than I liked her with Cross. Did not see that coming at all.
I cannot wait until the next book.
So much life lost. Poor Mako. But a huge Kudos to Prince!!!! If only he finished the job.
Feel so sorry for Poppy too.
The way the book ended.......a helicopter crash? Really?
Now that Cross is back, what will happen to Grayson? I kind of liked a Wren with Grayson more than I liked her with Cross. Did not see that coming at all.
I cannot wait until the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to Read
May 13, 2026ITS HERE. HELL YESSSSS
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THE COVERRRRRR 😩😩😩😩 currently counting down the minutes until may
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THE COVERRRRRR 😩😩😩😩 currently counting down the minutes until may
May 12, 2026
OH MY FUCKING GOD! 😡😤😡😤😡😡
There is no amount of words to describe HOW MUCH I HATED THIS BOOK! 😡😤😡😤
I could cry since Silver Elite was one of my favourite books of 2025... BUT THIS?! NO
I HATED THE FUCKING LOVE SITUATION?!?! LIKE FUCKING WHY?! It's not even a love triangle since Cross was completely cut out of the book... How can you just cut out the main character and replace him?!?! It was FUCKING CHEAP! And for what?! For the shock factor of having a new love interest???
FUCK NO! TEAM CROSS FOREVER! JUSTICE FOR CROSS because this is NOT how you do a love triangle.
By just cutting out the MMC and replacing him forcefully and shoving it in the readers faces! 😡😤😡😡😡
Also don't even get me started on the plot!! BECAUSE WHAT PLOT?! The plot was not in the room with us. Nothing happens except of course everything necessary to switch the love interest.
THIS BOOK could have been an EMAIL. It was absolutely a filler book... AND MY BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT OF THE YEAR! 😡😤😡😤😡😡😡😡😡
There is no amount of words to describe HOW MUCH I HATED THIS BOOK! 😡😤😡😤
I could cry since Silver Elite was one of my favourite books of 2025... BUT THIS?! NO
I HATED THE FUCKING LOVE SITUATION?!?! LIKE FUCKING WHY?! It's not even a love triangle since Cross was completely cut out of the book... How can you just cut out the main character and replace him?!?! It was FUCKING CHEAP! And for what?! For the shock factor of having a new love interest???
FUCK NO! TEAM CROSS FOREVER! JUSTICE FOR CROSS because this is NOT how you do a love triangle.
By just cutting out the MMC and replacing him forcefully and shoving it in the readers faces! 😡😤😡😡😡
Also don't even get me started on the plot!! BECAUSE WHAT PLOT?! The plot was not in the room with us. Nothing happens except of course everything necessary to switch the love interest.
THIS BOOK could have been an EMAIL. It was absolutely a filler book... AND MY BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT OF THE YEAR! 😡😤😡😤😡😡😡😡😡
May 13, 2026
This would have been such a good book, but the love triangle ruined it for me sadly.
First the good parts:
- The story, the developments between the primes and the mods
- Xavier! He is so fun and honestly deserves the world
- The found family
- the betrayals and plot twists
- the writing style
- basically everything but the romance
Now as for the romance... Why? Is it not possible for an author to keep a love story going over three books? Was this really necessary? I just don't get it. I have read love triangles that have worked for me before, but this one really didn't. A bit of turbulence, sure, but not this, when Cross was so well written for Wren.
First the good parts:
- The story, the developments between the primes and the mods
- Xavier! He is so fun and honestly deserves the world
- The found family
- the betrayals and plot twists
- the writing style
- basically everything but the romance
Now as for the romance... Why? Is it not possible for an author to keep a love story going over three books? Was this really necessary? I just don't get it. I have read love triangles that have worked for me before, but this one really didn't. A bit of turbulence, sure, but not this, when Cross was so well written for Wren.
physical-tbr
August 9, 2025SAY WHAT YOU WANT. I loved the first book, and I've already preordered a signed copy from BAM.
down HORRENDOUS
down HORRENDOUS
not-released-yet
August 17, 2025if this becomes a love triangle (hinted in the synopsis!), im team gray idc
May 8, 2026
4.5 Stars
Dani Francis, you got a lot of explaining to do
Dani Francis, you got a lot of explaining to do
May 13, 2026
Broken Dove was one of my most anticipated reads of this year so it pains me a bit to say what a disappointment it was. I, like many others, went into this book with one question on my mind: Will this book be a love triangle?
So very unfortunately, it was.
We leave off with Wren finding out her old pal Kaine isn't dead but actually alive and working with the Uprising as well as Cross being stuck with his older brother, Travis, in charge after the death of his father.
After Silver Elite, the premise of this book had so much potential and the author did a good job of expanding the world. I got to know a lot more background to the Uprising and some of the other locations in the world, which I enjoyed. The problem was that nothing significant happened for 90% of this book. I was drudging along, barely getting through until that end. It had the action, intensity, and stakes the rest of the book was lacking. The betrayals were well thought out and I found my interest finally resuscitated back to life.
I thoroughly enjoyed the side characters introduced in this book. Poppy has a lot of potential. I loved that Tana was back and became present as the book progresses. And I was invested in Luisa, Evlynne, Mako, Saint, Jasper, and Xavier as well. But god was it infuriating to watch Wren fawn over Grayson the whole book.
If you are more interested in the politics and world building side of things, you might not be as disappointed as I was with this book. But if you, like me, are here for the romance, I am so sorry in advance.
I can tell you with confidence that if Cross did not get a POV in the beginning, I would have skimmed at least the first 30%. He was his down bad self while being interrogated, calling Wren his reason for being, and just chef's kiss. Wren seriously did not deserve him at all. Besides that prologue, there isn't much to write home about on the romance front. Pretty instantaneously I was staring at the book in horror as Wren toed the line with Grayson. While Wren and Grayson were flirting with each other, it was utter insanity that she would constantly remind him that he had a girlfriend instead of asserting a boundary that she has a guy she is in love with! I think it says a lot about how Wren acted when, by the time she and Grayson got together, he didn't perceive her relationship with Cross as more than a hookup.
Frustration doesn't begin to cover how I felt about the romance in this book. If there is going to be a love triangle, at the very least I would like there to be a valid reason for and against each guy. The whole reason Wren and Cross break up (officially, because she was emotionally cheating) is because they come from different worlds. Cross would get shot if he went to the Uprising and Wren had a kill order on her in the Company. Cross wants to run away, Wren wants to stay and fight. Wren and Cross break up, causing a two-month time jump to push Wren and Grayson together. And at that very moment, I was checked out.
There are only two reasons that I gave this book two stars and not one. Firstly, I have to pay my respect to Captain Cross Redden. Secondly is because I really do like the world and premise of this book. It has the right blend of dystopian and fantasy elements to draw you in. But where was the romance? I wanted tension, yearning, chemistry, and high stakes love that this book did not deliver. I refuse to believe Grayson and Wren are meant for each other just as Cross and Wren were all of book 1. Despite all of my issues with this book, I will have to read book 3. I have to hope Wren's decisions in this book were a result of brainwashing so she and Cross can ride out into the sunset but I totally understand if you choose to wash away these pages from your mind and end the series here.
So very unfortunately, it was.
We leave off with Wren finding out her old pal Kaine isn't dead but actually alive and working with the Uprising as well as Cross being stuck with his older brother, Travis, in charge after the death of his father.
After Silver Elite, the premise of this book had so much potential and the author did a good job of expanding the world. I got to know a lot more background to the Uprising and some of the other locations in the world, which I enjoyed. The problem was that nothing significant happened for 90% of this book. I was drudging along, barely getting through until that end. It had the action, intensity, and stakes the rest of the book was lacking. The betrayals were well thought out and I found my interest finally resuscitated back to life.
I thoroughly enjoyed the side characters introduced in this book. Poppy has a lot of potential. I loved that Tana was back and became present as the book progresses. And I was invested in Luisa, Evlynne, Mako, Saint, Jasper, and Xavier as well. But god was it infuriating to watch Wren fawn over Grayson the whole book.
If you are more interested in the politics and world building side of things, you might not be as disappointed as I was with this book. But if you, like me, are here for the romance, I am so sorry in advance.
I can tell you with confidence that if Cross did not get a POV in the beginning, I would have skimmed at least the first 30%. He was his down bad self while being interrogated, calling Wren his reason for being, and just chef's kiss. Wren seriously did not deserve him at all. Besides that prologue, there isn't much to write home about on the romance front. Pretty instantaneously I was staring at the book in horror as Wren toed the line with Grayson. While Wren and Grayson were flirting with each other, it was utter insanity that she would constantly remind him that he had a girlfriend instead of asserting a boundary that she has a guy she is in love with! I think it says a lot about how Wren acted when, by the time she and Grayson got together, he didn't perceive her relationship with Cross as more than a hookup.
Frustration doesn't begin to cover how I felt about the romance in this book. If there is going to be a love triangle, at the very least I would like there to be a valid reason for and against each guy. The whole reason Wren and Cross break up (officially, because she was emotionally cheating) is because they come from different worlds. Cross would get shot if he went to the Uprising and Wren had a kill order on her in the Company. Cross wants to run away, Wren wants to stay and fight. Wren and Cross break up, causing a two-month time jump to push Wren and Grayson together. And at that very moment, I was checked out.
There are only two reasons that I gave this book two stars and not one. Firstly, I have to pay my respect to Captain Cross Redden. Secondly is because I really do like the world and premise of this book. It has the right blend of dystopian and fantasy elements to draw you in. But where was the romance? I wanted tension, yearning, chemistry, and high stakes love that this book did not deliver. I refuse to believe Grayson and Wren are meant for each other just as Cross and Wren were all of book 1. Despite all of my issues with this book, I will have to read book 3. I have to hope Wren's decisions in this book were a result of brainwashing so she and Cross can ride out into the sunset but I totally understand if you choose to wash away these pages from your mind and end the series here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Currently Reading
May 15, 2026pre-read
IT'S BROKEN DOVE O'CLOCK!!!
IT'S BROKEN DOVE O'CLOCK!!!
February 24, 2026
Broken Dove was one of my most anticipated reads of 2026 and consumed me to the point of infiltrating my dreams. Each twist had me racing through the pages! I loved how the sequel expanded the world building, politics, and magic system. The telepathic powers are incredibly fascinating, I had a lot of fun learning about all the new abilities.
I loved Wren’s character development in Broken Dove. Typically stubborn and impulsive, Wren learned to pause and reflect before reacting. She was isolated by the Mods and struggled to assimilate into their society, but persevered and found her place. She faced betrayal and loss, mended her own heart, and slowly opened it up again. I’m proud of her growth.
Some of the new characters frustrated me (you’ll know who), while others warmed my heart (Mako and Poppy). I found Wren and Xavier’s new friendship really sweet and loved how he had her back. I’m so glad Tana is okay. Prince is a cutie, can Wren please find a way to keep him?! I still have a soft spot for Cross and I’m very grateful for all the moments he rescued Wren. BUT, my favourite boy is Grayson Blake. I’ve officially fallen for Mr. Hotshot Pilot.
‼️ SPOILERS AHEAD ‼️
I adored Wren and Gray’s friendship, it was the highlight of my read. The playful banter and tension between them had me on the edge of my seat. I was screaming at all the loose confessions Gray slipped out. And when the moment finally hit, I was done for. I loved how they understood each other and took their time developing their relationship. It was so precious when Gray surprised Wren with a helicopter ride to the lagoon. Gray has always kept everyone at arm’s length, but slowly let his walls down around Wren. I sobbed when he opened up about his family to her — “I wanted to show you… all of me.” 🥹 The end of the book cleaved my heart in two. “Give me your hand, Dove.” OH MY GOD. The last chapter threw my emotions into a spiral. I’m going to be thinking about the final sentence until the next book is released.
Thank you millions to Penguin Aus for the early copy, it’s a dream come true!
I loved Wren’s character development in Broken Dove. Typically stubborn and impulsive, Wren learned to pause and reflect before reacting. She was isolated by the Mods and struggled to assimilate into their society, but persevered and found her place. She faced betrayal and loss, mended her own heart, and slowly opened it up again. I’m proud of her growth.
Some of the new characters frustrated me (you’ll know who), while others warmed my heart (Mako and Poppy). I found Wren and Xavier’s new friendship really sweet and loved how he had her back. I’m so glad Tana is okay. Prince is a cutie, can Wren please find a way to keep him?! I still have a soft spot for Cross and I’m very grateful for all the moments he rescued Wren. BUT, my favourite boy is Grayson Blake. I’ve officially fallen for Mr. Hotshot Pilot.
‼️ SPOILERS AHEAD ‼️
I adored Wren and Gray’s friendship, it was the highlight of my read. The playful banter and tension between them had me on the edge of my seat. I was screaming at all the loose confessions Gray slipped out. And when the moment finally hit, I was done for. I loved how they understood each other and took their time developing their relationship. It was so precious when Gray surprised Wren with a helicopter ride to the lagoon. Gray has always kept everyone at arm’s length, but slowly let his walls down around Wren. I sobbed when he opened up about his family to her — “I wanted to show you… all of me.” 🥹 The end of the book cleaved my heart in two. “Give me your hand, Dove.” OH MY GOD. The last chapter threw my emotions into a spiral. I’m going to be thinking about the final sentence until the next book is released.
Thank you millions to Penguin Aus for the early copy, it’s a dream come true!
May 13, 2026
This was a painful read. The direction this took was so disappointing. I hated every page. I actually can’t think of a single thing that would have made this book worse. My hope for book 3 is that they all die.
The 2 stars are for Cross and Cross only and that’s me being very generous.
The only reason I didn’t dnf this book was because I wanted to leave a bad review
The 2 stars are for Cross and Cross only and that’s me being very generous.
The only reason I didn’t dnf this book was because I wanted to leave a bad review
May 14, 2026
I want book 3 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Want to Read
November 16, 2025Godddd I hope this doesn't turn into a love triangle
May 14, 2026
And the Oscar for Best Performance by an Insufferably Dumb and Hypocritical Main Character goes to… Wren Darlington! Everybody clap.
This is easily the worst book I’ve read this year, and possibly the worst one I’ve read in years. Which is honestly impressive, considering the premise is literally horny teenagers fighting an oppressive regime.
This is easily the worst book I’ve read this year, and possibly the worst one I’ve read in years. Which is honestly impressive, considering the premise is literally horny teenagers fighting an oppressive regime.
Want to Read
December 7, 2025pleaaaase i dont want a love triangle! i really love cross :(
May 14, 2026
3 ⭐️
(Edited) After sleeping on it, I think I’m even more disappointed. I really wanted this book to be just as incredible as the first one…
That said, I have to lower my rating to 3 ⭐️. After reflecting on it, I just can’t justify giving it more. There are several narrative choices — and even some of the changes in Wren’s personality — that simply didn’t make sense to me.
The Wren from the first book felt far more mature, even though this sequel tries to convince us that this is where she truly grows up. I honestly don’t see it that way. I barely recognised this “new” Wren, and unfortunately, I can’t say I liked her. Such a disappointment.
And justice needs to be done for Cross in the next book! After everything that happened in this one, he deserves far more attention and recognition than what he got here.
Original review (3.5 ⭐️):
I honestly don’t even know where to start. There are going to be a few spoilers here, but nothing you probably couldn’t already guess from the synopsis.
The pacing was a bit slow at times, but it was still an easy read. The confrontations, betrayals, reveals, and all the tension were probably my favourite parts of the book.
But I really need to talk about the romance because that’s where the book completely lost me.
The way things ended between Wren and Cross felt so frustrating to me. First she was upset because he wouldn’t run away with her, but when he finally decides he will leave with her… suddenly she doesn’t want to anymore! And look, I can understand why she chooses to stay. I can also understand why Cross doesn’t want to join the other side. I even understand why they had to separate at that moment.
What I don’t understand is how she moves on literally a few months later and ends up saying she loves Gray while also saying part of her will always love Cross. You really think that’s normal?
She’s in love with both of them? I’m sorry but it doesn’t work like that.
Cross was supposedly the love of her life, but because they can’t be together she falls for her friend? It felt rushed. I don’t buy it. And honestly, unfair to both Gray and Cross!
I also hated the comparisons she makes between them. It almost felt like she was trying to say that loving Cross hurt her, while loving Gray helps her “grow.” Meanwhile Cross spent the entire series doing everything for her. It just made the whole situation feel worse. So disrespectful and unfair!!
At this point, and with that ending, it’s clearly turning into a love triangle, and not even a good one. If the author wanted Wren to move on from Cross, then fine — but it needed more development, more believable reasons, and way more time to build that relationship properly.
I’m already expecting the next book to end with one of the guys heartbroken or dead. And honestly, after everything, neither of them deserves that!
Overall, I’m really disappointed. After how much I loved Silver Elite, I expected way more from this sequel.
Let’s see what the next book will bring. But I’m not confident after this one. Hope I’m wrong!
P.S. Xavier carried a big chunk of the book. What a great character!!
(Edited) After sleeping on it, I think I’m even more disappointed. I really wanted this book to be just as incredible as the first one…
That said, I have to lower my rating to 3 ⭐️. After reflecting on it, I just can’t justify giving it more. There are several narrative choices — and even some of the changes in Wren’s personality — that simply didn’t make sense to me.
The Wren from the first book felt far more mature, even though this sequel tries to convince us that this is where she truly grows up. I honestly don’t see it that way. I barely recognised this “new” Wren, and unfortunately, I can’t say I liked her. Such a disappointment.
And justice needs to be done for Cross in the next book! After everything that happened in this one, he deserves far more attention and recognition than what he got here.
Original review (3.5 ⭐️):
I honestly don’t even know where to start. There are going to be a few spoilers here, but nothing you probably couldn’t already guess from the synopsis.
The pacing was a bit slow at times, but it was still an easy read. The confrontations, betrayals, reveals, and all the tension were probably my favourite parts of the book.
But I really need to talk about the romance because that’s where the book completely lost me.
The way things ended between Wren and Cross felt so frustrating to me. First she was upset because he wouldn’t run away with her, but when he finally decides he will leave with her… suddenly she doesn’t want to anymore! And look, I can understand why she chooses to stay. I can also understand why Cross doesn’t want to join the other side. I even understand why they had to separate at that moment.
What I don’t understand is how she moves on literally a few months later and ends up saying she loves Gray while also saying part of her will always love Cross. You really think that’s normal?
She’s in love with both of them? I’m sorry but it doesn’t work like that.
Cross was supposedly the love of her life, but because they can’t be together she falls for her friend? It felt rushed. I don’t buy it. And honestly, unfair to both Gray and Cross!
I also hated the comparisons she makes between them. It almost felt like she was trying to say that loving Cross hurt her, while loving Gray helps her “grow.” Meanwhile Cross spent the entire series doing everything for her. It just made the whole situation feel worse. So disrespectful and unfair!!
At this point, and with that ending, it’s clearly turning into a love triangle, and not even a good one. If the author wanted Wren to move on from Cross, then fine — but it needed more development, more believable reasons, and way more time to build that relationship properly.
I’m already expecting the next book to end with one of the guys heartbroken or dead. And honestly, after everything, neither of them deserves that!
Overall, I’m really disappointed. After how much I loved Silver Elite, I expected way more from this sequel.
Let’s see what the next book will bring. But I’m not confident after this one. Hope I’m wrong!
P.S. Xavier carried a big chunk of the book. What a great character!!
May 13, 2026
I don’t even know where to start 🫠 this should’ve been a duet instead of a trilogy!
I loved Silver Elite but honestly this was the biggest disappointment and I’m so annoyed. First of all the audio is advertised as Amanda Dolan AND Teddy Hamilton, yet Teddy only does the prologue & epilogue so if I had known that I probably would’ve eyeball read this
Ok so I felt like a lot of this book was filler and not much happened? And then when action was happening it was quite rushed. We’re introduced to so many new side characters and some aren’t fleshed out enough.
And don’t even get me started on the direction the relationship aspect of this story went. It was so out of left field and unnecessary? I didn’t feel a connection between the characters and don’t know why it was introduced.
There are lots of twists and turns and questions left unanswered that hopefully don’t make me hate book 3 🫣
I loved Silver Elite but honestly this was the biggest disappointment and I’m so annoyed. First of all the audio is advertised as Amanda Dolan AND Teddy Hamilton, yet Teddy only does the prologue & epilogue so if I had known that I probably would’ve eyeball read this
Ok so I felt like a lot of this book was filler and not much happened? And then when action was happening it was quite rushed. We’re introduced to so many new side characters and some aren’t fleshed out enough.
And don’t even get me started on the direction the relationship aspect of this story went. It was so out of left field and unnecessary? I didn’t feel a connection between the characters and don’t know why it was introduced.
There are lots of twists and turns and questions left unanswered that hopefully don’t make me hate book 3 🫣
May 13, 2026
I loved book 1 but this was so disappointing! Why take this turn on the romance?! Just NO.
Want to Read
October 9, 2025May 2026? Dani Francis, babes, I'll read book 2 for you right now.
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