What do you think?
Rate this book
Roots & Rubble: An Enemies-to-Lovers Young Adult Dystopian Romance
Awards
Finalist of the 2026 National Indie Excellence Awards for Young Adult Fiction - Roots & The Scattered Seeds Book 1
Recipient of the 2025 IngramSpark Editorial Selection for Young Adult Fiction - Roots & The Scattered Seeds Book 1
To survive, she followed the rules. To live, she’ll have to break them.
Eighteen-year-old Nova Stormont was raised to survive, not hope. In Whitebark Haven, straying from your assigned role means punishment, or worse. But Nova has always yearned for more than life in the shadows as a scout. She wants to heal, to grow, to choose.
When she reveals a hidden talent at her coming-of-age ceremony, Nova risks everything to prove there’s more to life than what the Elders expect. But before judgement falls, she slips beyond the borders for one last stolen breath of freedom, only to be captured by the Loxosceles, a ruthless faction where power determines your worth.
Trapped behind enemy lines, Nova must rely on her scouting skills, her knowledge of plants, and her sharp wit as she navigates shifting loyalties and the gaze of a duty-bound commander who is more than he seems. With every step, she begins to question everything she thought she knew—about her enemies, her purpose, and herself.
For readers who crave slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dystopian romance, found family, morally grey choices, and love that grows in unexpected places.
Perfect for fans Powerless, The Prisoner Healer, The Hunger Games, and Crowns of Nyaxia.
Finalist of the 2026 National Indie Excellence Awards for Young Adult Fiction - Roots & The Scattered Seeds Book 1
Recipient of the 2025 IngramSpark Editorial Selection for Young Adult Fiction - Roots & The Scattered Seeds Book 1
To survive, she followed the rules. To live, she’ll have to break them.
Eighteen-year-old Nova Stormont was raised to survive, not hope. In Whitebark Haven, straying from your assigned role means punishment, or worse. But Nova has always yearned for more than life in the shadows as a scout. She wants to heal, to grow, to choose.
When she reveals a hidden talent at her coming-of-age ceremony, Nova risks everything to prove there’s more to life than what the Elders expect. But before judgement falls, she slips beyond the borders for one last stolen breath of freedom, only to be captured by the Loxosceles, a ruthless faction where power determines your worth.
Trapped behind enemy lines, Nova must rely on her scouting skills, her knowledge of plants, and her sharp wit as she navigates shifting loyalties and the gaze of a duty-bound commander who is more than he seems. With every step, she begins to question everything she thought she knew—about her enemies, her purpose, and herself.
For readers who crave slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dystopian romance, found family, morally grey choices, and love that grows in unexpected places.
Perfect for fans Powerless, The Prisoner Healer, The Hunger Games, and Crowns of Nyaxia.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2025
About the author
Kalleigh Royn
8 books52 followersKalleigh Royn is an award-winning author who crafts stories with heart, grit, and hope.
She is the author the of YA Dystopian Romantasy Series: The Scattered Seeds
Book 1: Roots & Rubble
Book 2: Sprigs & Stone
Book 2.5: Pines & Petrol
Book 3: Cedars & Concrete
Book 4: Marigolds & Mortar
Kalleigh lives in a beautiful mountain town in Southern Alberta, where she balances her work as a middle school administrator with her passion for writing. Drawing from her experiences, she weaves themes of resilience and leadership into her stories. When she's not writing or working, she can be found hiking, running, biking, or spending time with her partner and their adventurous corgi, Corgmander Riker.
Follow Kalleigh Royn on instagram https://www.instagram.com/kalleighroy...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 11, 2026
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book.
I enjoyed reading Nova's story and how she wants to be more than what she is predetermined to be. She is constantly growing in the story and i loved her journey of learning more about herself and what she wants in life. This story gives some vibes from divergent and a bit of delirium. I loved the dystopian vibe with hints of post apocalypse. It was a good blend of the two and I feel like the setting really worked for Nova'a journey.
I enjoyed reading Nova's story and how she wants to be more than what she is predetermined to be. She is constantly growing in the story and i loved her journey of learning more about herself and what she wants in life. This story gives some vibes from divergent and a bit of delirium. I loved the dystopian vibe with hints of post apocalypse. It was a good blend of the two and I feel like the setting really worked for Nova'a journey.
June 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I devoured this in one sitting.
I started Roots and Rubble by Kalleigh Royn at noon and had it finished at the end of the day. That’s how obsessed I was. This book pulled me in from page one and never let go.
The story follows Nova, a girl from a world where everything is predetermined; your path, your future, your entire life. But Nova isn’t having it. She decides to break free and sets out on a journey that turns into a full-blown adventure. Along the way, she meets a cast of characters that I’m still thinking about.
Let’s start with Leon. The MMC. He calls her lamb, it was so cute. sooo onviously I was SOLD. Their relationship is built so well with so much depth and care that I never once questioned the pacing or the progression. It just kept getting better and better and better. I’m obsessed.
Then there’s Oron, who is my soft spot. He’s gentle, thoughtful, smart. The quiet force in the room who sees everything and says just enough. He’s my second favorite, but still holds a huge chunk of my heart.
And let’s not forget the other two guys. Bradger is so kind and welcoming. He took Nova in right away and unknowingly helped her understand this new world. And Crux… he’s prickly, not immediately likable, but there’s definitely something soft hidden beneath all that edge. He really grew on me.
The worldbuilding? Phenomenal. The story? Constantly evolving with zero dull moments. I flew through this book, barely stopping to eat. It’s so well constructed. Every reveal, every relationship, every twist just worked.
Now, the ending. I won’t lie, it left me a little lost because I want to know everything at once, and that’s not possible with an open ending. BUT that just means I’m hoping and praying there will be a book two, because I need more of Nova and Leon. I am not okay.
Also, Leon’s brother? There’s totally a soft side under that icy surface. I can feel it. And Humphrey! I love that guy. Just had to throw that in there.
This was an obvious five-star read. I couldn’t put it down, I loved everything about it, and I’m already dying for more.
I started Roots and Rubble by Kalleigh Royn at noon and had it finished at the end of the day. That’s how obsessed I was. This book pulled me in from page one and never let go.
The story follows Nova, a girl from a world where everything is predetermined; your path, your future, your entire life. But Nova isn’t having it. She decides to break free and sets out on a journey that turns into a full-blown adventure. Along the way, she meets a cast of characters that I’m still thinking about.
Let’s start with Leon. The MMC. He calls her lamb, it was so cute. sooo onviously I was SOLD. Their relationship is built so well with so much depth and care that I never once questioned the pacing or the progression. It just kept getting better and better and better. I’m obsessed.
Then there’s Oron, who is my soft spot. He’s gentle, thoughtful, smart. The quiet force in the room who sees everything and says just enough. He’s my second favorite, but still holds a huge chunk of my heart.
And let’s not forget the other two guys. Bradger is so kind and welcoming. He took Nova in right away and unknowingly helped her understand this new world. And Crux… he’s prickly, not immediately likable, but there’s definitely something soft hidden beneath all that edge. He really grew on me.
The worldbuilding? Phenomenal. The story? Constantly evolving with zero dull moments. I flew through this book, barely stopping to eat. It’s so well constructed. Every reveal, every relationship, every twist just worked.
Now, the ending. I won’t lie, it left me a little lost because I want to know everything at once, and that’s not possible with an open ending. BUT that just means I’m hoping and praying there will be a book two, because I need more of Nova and Leon. I am not okay.
Also, Leon’s brother? There’s totally a soft side under that icy surface. I can feel it. And Humphrey! I love that guy. Just had to throw that in there.
This was an obvious five-star read. I couldn’t put it down, I loved everything about it, and I’m already dying for more.
February 24, 2026
THAT ENDING THOUGH!! Talk about a story that feels like a slow sunrise. It’s warm, grounding, and full of quiet wonder. The world is lush and textured, the kind that invites you to slow your breath and savor every word. Royn’s prose is both earthy and elegant, weaving layers of emotion with natural beauty in a way that feels deeply alive.
This book captures the magic of growth (personal, emotional, and sometimes painfully beautiful) without ever losing its heart. The characters are rendered with such care that their joys and struggles feel real and tender, like old friends you can’t help but root for. Every page bursts with evocative imagery and thoughtful insight, balancing soul and story in perfect harmony.
If you adore character-driven tales rich with atmosphere, heart, and quiet magic, this book will stay with you long after the last sentence. Five stars all the way.
Thank you to Kalleigh Royn for a copy of the ebook!
This book captures the magic of growth (personal, emotional, and sometimes painfully beautiful) without ever losing its heart. The characters are rendered with such care that their joys and struggles feel real and tender, like old friends you can’t help but root for. Every page bursts with evocative imagery and thoughtful insight, balancing soul and story in perfect harmony.
If you adore character-driven tales rich with atmosphere, heart, and quiet magic, this book will stay with you long after the last sentence. Five stars all the way.
Thank you to Kalleigh Royn for a copy of the ebook!
June 7, 2025
Roots & Rubble caught my eye on Instagram, so I applied for an ARC copy. I started reading it one night, and I was so invested, I could not put it down. Normally I take notes as I read, but I forgot to do that! However, I retained plenty of impressions of this unforgettable dystopian novel.
Nova wants more than the life she was born into and is expected to live. She yearns to see what’s outside of her hidden village, and when she dares to venture outside of it, she finds more adventure than she bargained for...but this young woman handles it.
The setting ranges from Nova’s hidden comfort zone (home) to a dangerous Mad Max type junkyard to treacherous mountain passes.
The characters are well developed, each with their own quirks and roles in the story. I especially liked the bad@ss, skilled women and the protective, morally grey MMC.
Nova’s knowledge of plants, natural remedies, and tracking add complex facets to her personality. They also make her ability to survive in an unfamiliar world believable and real. Her adventures had me on the edge of my seat hoping she’d be okay, and I can’t wait to read the next book in The Scattered Seeds Series.
Nova wants more than the life she was born into and is expected to live. She yearns to see what’s outside of her hidden village, and when she dares to venture outside of it, she finds more adventure than she bargained for...but this young woman handles it.
The setting ranges from Nova’s hidden comfort zone (home) to a dangerous Mad Max type junkyard to treacherous mountain passes.
The characters are well developed, each with their own quirks and roles in the story. I especially liked the bad@ss, skilled women and the protective, morally grey MMC.
Nova’s knowledge of plants, natural remedies, and tracking add complex facets to her personality. They also make her ability to survive in an unfamiliar world believable and real. Her adventures had me on the edge of my seat hoping she’d be okay, and I can’t wait to read the next book in The Scattered Seeds Series.
June 16, 2025
I absolutely loved this book—I didn’t want to put it down! The story pulled me in from the very first chapter, and I’m already eager to get my hands on book two. I love a book with a strong female lead who’s easy to root for. I also really enjoyed the unique plant and tracking knowledge woven into the story—it satisfied the Girl Guide side of me. Highly recommend! Bring on book two in the Scattered Seed Series.
July 2, 2025
ARC review ✨️
Firstly, one of the loveliest authors! Kalleigh has really hit it out the park with this book, Im so grateful for being given the opportunity to read this and to be able to speak the author themselves ☺️ @kalleighroynwrites
I ate this story up so quickly that I reread it again to actually ensure I didnt miss anything! Nova is such a relatable FMC who's character development was great to read. Doesn't everyone want more to life than what is predetermined to us? Absolutely, so I really loved this getting broken through
Leon, my goodness. I had a huge soft spot for him and their relationship. It developed at a good pace which didnt leave you thinking.. oh, that was quick, perfect pace. But the ending?! How could you do this to us..!!! Actually. Please continue to do it to us because I cannot stop thinking about the cliffhanger and the theories and thoughts going through my head
The story is set in a dystopian world which anyone who loves divergent with a hint of Mad Max, this is 100% for you and easy to get into and fly through. I would definitely recommend reading Roots and Rubble, its now available to buy/ read now!
Firstly, one of the loveliest authors! Kalleigh has really hit it out the park with this book, Im so grateful for being given the opportunity to read this and to be able to speak the author themselves ☺️ @kalleighroynwrites
I ate this story up so quickly that I reread it again to actually ensure I didnt miss anything! Nova is such a relatable FMC who's character development was great to read. Doesn't everyone want more to life than what is predetermined to us? Absolutely, so I really loved this getting broken through
Leon, my goodness. I had a huge soft spot for him and their relationship. It developed at a good pace which didnt leave you thinking.. oh, that was quick, perfect pace. But the ending?! How could you do this to us..!!! Actually. Please continue to do it to us because I cannot stop thinking about the cliffhanger and the theories and thoughts going through my head
The story is set in a dystopian world which anyone who loves divergent with a hint of Mad Max, this is 100% for you and easy to get into and fly through. I would definitely recommend reading Roots and Rubble, its now available to buy/ read now!
July 4, 2025
HOW I LOVED THIS BOOK!! I just wanna scream and tell every one to read this!
I don’t even have words, i loved this so much and at the same time i don’t know where to beging to tell about this!
I did like Nova! And in the end i started to like Crux too! Bradger, oh my he is so funny, i loved him! And so kind too! Oron seems nice too! But the best one was obiously Leon! Hot, nice, a bit broody and hot! Did i all ready say hi is hot? Well he is hot.
Everything in this book is so well written and the story goes on so smoothly. Awesome details and characters! You truly could imagine how they look and sounds!
I am gonna need more of this story! Loved this so much! One of my favorite reads of the year!
AAAAAAAAAA is all i can say(or yell)
I don’t even have words, i loved this so much and at the same time i don’t know where to beging to tell about this!
I did like Nova! And in the end i started to like Crux too! Bradger, oh my he is so funny, i loved him! And so kind too! Oron seems nice too! But the best one was obiously Leon! Hot, nice, a bit broody and hot! Did i all ready say hi is hot? Well he is hot.
Everything in this book is so well written and the story goes on so smoothly. Awesome details and characters! You truly could imagine how they look and sounds!
I am gonna need more of this story! Loved this so much! One of my favorite reads of the year!
AAAAAAAAAA is all i can say(or yell)
June 27, 2025
When you feel like you have no choice except what’s been laid before you, read this book!
“No matter our status”, he says quietly, “we are all worthy of respect”
Set in a world beyond the collapse of modern civilization, Nova is a dreamer who wants more than the simple life of her collective.
She doesn’t want to be a tracker, she knows her skills are rooted in forbidden knowledge.
When she decides to take control of her destiny, she ends up captured. Can her skills save her life? Will she survive the world she knows nothing about? Waiting on bated breath for the next book! So blessed to have received an advanced copy to read. 🤩
“No matter our status”, he says quietly, “we are all worthy of respect”
Set in a world beyond the collapse of modern civilization, Nova is a dreamer who wants more than the simple life of her collective.
She doesn’t want to be a tracker, she knows her skills are rooted in forbidden knowledge.
When she decides to take control of her destiny, she ends up captured. Can her skills save her life? Will she survive the world she knows nothing about? Waiting on bated breath for the next book! So blessed to have received an advanced copy to read. 🤩
October 28, 2025
I ate this book up ! It's a very good surprise and I can't wait to read the next book :D
September 11, 2026
I liked Nova. She knows there has to be more out there than the life she’s been told she’s supposed to have, and I liked watching her start figuring things out for herself. She’s strong but still feels real, which made me like her even more.
The worldbuilding was probably one of my favorite parts. I loved the whole dystopian and survival feel, and getting to see everything Nova discovers once she finally gets outside her little world.
And Leon… yeah, I loved him. The way his relationship with Nova developed. It didn’t feel rushed and I was completely invested in them.
I also liked the other characters. Bradger was so funny and sweet, Oron was such a sweetheart, and somehow Crux even grew on me.
The worldbuilding was probably one of my favorite parts. I loved the whole dystopian and survival feel, and getting to see everything Nova discovers once she finally gets outside her little world.
And Leon… yeah, I loved him. The way his relationship with Nova developed. It didn’t feel rushed and I was completely invested in them.
I also liked the other characters. Bradger was so funny and sweet, Oron was such a sweetheart, and somehow Crux even grew on me.
July 1, 2026
Thank you to Kalleigh Royn for providing this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Roots & Rubble is a deeply atmospheric and emotionally grounded fantasy that explores what remains when everything familiar has been разрушed—and what begins to grow in its place. From the very first pages, I was drawn into a world shaped by loss, survival, and the fragile hope that something better might still be built from the ruins.
Kalleigh Royn delivers a story that feels both intimate and expansive. The “rubble” of the world is not just physical, but emotional and historical, and I loved how that layered destruction mirrored the characters’ internal struggles. There’s a quiet intensity running through the narrative that makes every small moment feel meaningful, as if even silence carries weight.
The characters are the heart of this book. Each one is shaped by what they’ve lost, yet still reaching for something more—connection, purpose, or simply the chance to keep going. Their relationships are built slowly and deliberately, grounded in trust that has to be earned rather than given. That made every interaction feel authentic and emotionally resonant.
One of the strongest aspects of Roots & Rubble is its balance between devastation and hope. Even in its darker moments, there is always the sense that something can grow back—perhaps not what was lost, but something new and equally powerful. The emotional pacing reflects this beautifully, allowing grief and healing to sit side by side without rushing either.
The writing itself is understated but evocative, creating a world that feels worn, real, and lived-in. It’s not a story that relies on constant action, but rather on emotional depth, atmosphere, and the slow rebuilding of both land and self.
By the final pages, I was left with a quiet sense of reflection. Roots & Rubble is the kind of story that doesn’t just end—it settles, like dust after a storm, leaving behind the reminder that even broken things can take root again.
"Even in the ruins, something stubborn still grows—roots pushing through rubble, refusing to forget how to live."
If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with post-fall worlds, emotional storytelling, themes of rebuilding, and quietly powerful prose, this is a story worth sitting with.
✨ Tropes & Themes
🌱 Post-Destruction World
🖤 Emotional Survival
💔 Grief & Healing
🌿 Rebuilding & Renewal
🤝 Found Connection
⚔️ Slow-Burn Resilience
🌙 Atmospheric Fantasy
🗝️ Lost Civilizations Echoes
✨ Hope in Ruins
📖 Character-Driven Story
Roots & Rubble is a deeply atmospheric and emotionally grounded fantasy that explores what remains when everything familiar has been разрушed—and what begins to grow in its place. From the very first pages, I was drawn into a world shaped by loss, survival, and the fragile hope that something better might still be built from the ruins.
Kalleigh Royn delivers a story that feels both intimate and expansive. The “rubble” of the world is not just physical, but emotional and historical, and I loved how that layered destruction mirrored the characters’ internal struggles. There’s a quiet intensity running through the narrative that makes every small moment feel meaningful, as if even silence carries weight.
The characters are the heart of this book. Each one is shaped by what they’ve lost, yet still reaching for something more—connection, purpose, or simply the chance to keep going. Their relationships are built slowly and deliberately, grounded in trust that has to be earned rather than given. That made every interaction feel authentic and emotionally resonant.
One of the strongest aspects of Roots & Rubble is its balance between devastation and hope. Even in its darker moments, there is always the sense that something can grow back—perhaps not what was lost, but something new and equally powerful. The emotional pacing reflects this beautifully, allowing grief and healing to sit side by side without rushing either.
The writing itself is understated but evocative, creating a world that feels worn, real, and lived-in. It’s not a story that relies on constant action, but rather on emotional depth, atmosphere, and the slow rebuilding of both land and self.
By the final pages, I was left with a quiet sense of reflection. Roots & Rubble is the kind of story that doesn’t just end—it settles, like dust after a storm, leaving behind the reminder that even broken things can take root again.
"Even in the ruins, something stubborn still grows—roots pushing through rubble, refusing to forget how to live."
If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with post-fall worlds, emotional storytelling, themes of rebuilding, and quietly powerful prose, this is a story worth sitting with.
✨ Tropes & Themes
🌱 Post-Destruction World
🖤 Emotional Survival
💔 Grief & Healing
🌿 Rebuilding & Renewal
🤝 Found Connection
⚔️ Slow-Burn Resilience
🌙 Atmospheric Fantasy
🗝️ Lost Civilizations Echoes
✨ Hope in Ruins
📖 Character-Driven Story
January 19, 2026
Nova is a strong and smart girl. That's what I loved about her.She is very clever, seeing the bigger picture and reading the moment very well. She doesn't have much knowledge given where she comes from but she knows how to make the best of what she has.The action is very captivating and it's very hard to stop
reading. The ending let's you craving for more and you will
give it five stars without a thought.
reading. The ending let's you craving for more and you will
give it five stars without a thought.
July 29, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this YA novel and can’t wait for book 2! Love Nova’s unique strengths and the diversity of the characters throughout the story. Great dystopian elements and it was easy to follow and picture everything. I know that my jr high students will absolutely adore this book too!
November 17, 2025
Love love loved this book!! I was immediately immersed in the dystopian world. Such an interesting storyline with amazing characters. I just love the found family in here and the slow burn romance has me chomping at the bit for more! I cannot wait to see what happens next!!
October 24, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC!!
This book was FASCINATING. Its been a while since I have read a dystopian book that is reminiscent of the maze runner and hunger games books without feeling like a copy. Roots and Rubble is a great book if you're looking for something that is interesting, fresh, new, and reminiscent all at the same time. I felt like I was reading the maze runner series all over again just based on vibes alone.
The writing itself is really well done and flows with the plot! I enjoyed how much of the book was internal observation and details in the surroundings. I love a good internal narrative and in turn an unreliable narrator. I look forward to seeing what the characters learn, and specifically what Nova discovers about her home and the other territories.
Huge cult vibes, I hope that we revisit Whitebark Haven at some point in the upcoming books because I NEEEEEED a final showdown and I am sure the elders are hiding dirty little secrets under their cots. I wonder if we will come across the other fledgling that left.
The banter in the squad is immaculate, and I appreciate that a lot of this book was spent in that awkward "are they going to kill me? Do they hate me?" phase of captivity and didn't jump right into being best friends. Most books I read skip the logical hesitation period so this was a relief!!
Also... the slow burn. HUGE slow burn. For the majority of the book I actually couldn't tell who Nova was aiming for romance wise; which I loved!! Its tiring knowing who the main character will end up with off the bat so this was a nice change. The chemistry is definitely bubbling and I look forward to the hinted at forbidden romance in book 2.
As a plant lover I really enjoyed the botany aspect of everything as well. It was a much more rugged type of botany but still very interesting to learn about and read!!
All in all a wonderful book and I am SOOOOO excited for book 2! I would highly recommend this book to all who miss reading the maze runner and hunger games for this first time.
This book was FASCINATING. Its been a while since I have read a dystopian book that is reminiscent of the maze runner and hunger games books without feeling like a copy. Roots and Rubble is a great book if you're looking for something that is interesting, fresh, new, and reminiscent all at the same time. I felt like I was reading the maze runner series all over again just based on vibes alone.
The writing itself is really well done and flows with the plot! I enjoyed how much of the book was internal observation and details in the surroundings. I love a good internal narrative and in turn an unreliable narrator. I look forward to seeing what the characters learn, and specifically what Nova discovers about her home and the other territories.
Huge cult vibes, I hope that we revisit Whitebark Haven at some point in the upcoming books because I NEEEEEED a final showdown and I am sure the elders are hiding dirty little secrets under their cots. I wonder if we will come across the other fledgling that left.
The banter in the squad is immaculate, and I appreciate that a lot of this book was spent in that awkward "are they going to kill me? Do they hate me?" phase of captivity and didn't jump right into being best friends. Most books I read skip the logical hesitation period so this was a relief!!
Also... the slow burn. HUGE slow burn. For the majority of the book I actually couldn't tell who Nova was aiming for romance wise; which I loved!! Its tiring knowing who the main character will end up with off the bat so this was a nice change. The chemistry is definitely bubbling and I look forward to the hinted at forbidden romance in book 2.
As a plant lover I really enjoyed the botany aspect of everything as well. It was a much more rugged type of botany but still very interesting to learn about and read!!
All in all a wonderful book and I am SOOOOO excited for book 2! I would highly recommend this book to all who miss reading the maze runner and hunger games for this first time.
November 30, 2025
Living in Whitebark Haven seems like paradise to many after the tragedies that changed the course of human life.
What Nova Stormont did not anticipate was having to submit to a narrow-minded policy that raises and brings up individuals to serve the community, only to then deny them the freedom to decide what to do with their lives at the Rite.
If the council expects her to continue as a scout during the hunt, she would like to study botany in order to make a real contribution to safeguarding the health and well-being of her people. Unfortunately, she will face a future of ostracism and loneliness unless she follows what the council has imposed on her.
That is precisely why, during an unauthorised visit with a friend of the same age, she decides to stay out longer to explore the outside world. It is here that our explorer will either be as free as air or end up in handcuffs like a captive.
Having never left those suffocating but now safe walls, Nova finds herself witnessing high-risk situations and learning that her community's perfect way of life is nothing more than a smokescreen, imposed to protect those who are more worthy than others living outside.
I don't know if the author intended to write a post-apocalyptic dystopian story, but I found many similarities with both dystopian and fantasy books I'd read before. The story itself describes a pseudo-idyllic situation, but when the protagonist takes her first steps alone, the MC discovers the hidden corruption that kept them subjugated by the need to stay safe.
I know that the situation with outsiders is tense and on edge on both sides: trusting someone's word is never a good sign, nor is planning the fate of those who have no choice but to follow those who keep them in chains...
Can't really wait to read the sequel 👀🔥
What Nova Stormont did not anticipate was having to submit to a narrow-minded policy that raises and brings up individuals to serve the community, only to then deny them the freedom to decide what to do with their lives at the Rite.
If the council expects her to continue as a scout during the hunt, she would like to study botany in order to make a real contribution to safeguarding the health and well-being of her people. Unfortunately, she will face a future of ostracism and loneliness unless she follows what the council has imposed on her.
That is precisely why, during an unauthorised visit with a friend of the same age, she decides to stay out longer to explore the outside world. It is here that our explorer will either be as free as air or end up in handcuffs like a captive.
Having never left those suffocating but now safe walls, Nova finds herself witnessing high-risk situations and learning that her community's perfect way of life is nothing more than a smokescreen, imposed to protect those who are more worthy than others living outside.
I don't know if the author intended to write a post-apocalyptic dystopian story, but I found many similarities with both dystopian and fantasy books I'd read before. The story itself describes a pseudo-idyllic situation, but when the protagonist takes her first steps alone, the MC discovers the hidden corruption that kept them subjugated by the need to stay safe.
I know that the situation with outsiders is tense and on edge on both sides: trusting someone's word is never a good sign, nor is planning the fate of those who have no choice but to follow those who keep them in chains...
Can't really wait to read the sequel 👀🔥
July 15, 2026
Loved this book and its sequel. At first the book felt very familiar like a rewrite of something I had read before, but the further I got into the story, the more it came into itself.
I am kind of going to review the two books simultaneously because I read them back to back and don't know where one ends. I adore Nova- and the brothers. But Nova is willing to go through hardships for the people she loves and even the people she doesn't. She has all the qualities of a leader as someone without the capacity to lead.
And Leon and his crew- fantastic characters. Rash, dangerous, passionate- all the things you want in a bad boy. Then you meet Kieren- bless it. Duty bound, powerful, older brother.
I love watching Nova stand on her own with her own crew of supporters- because she's just a good person.
I look forward to seeing where this goes next. There's secrets to be revealed and I WANT TO KNOW! There's a history with Nova's mom, I don't know what it is, but it has to be important, right?
Great books- great world building- great characters. This is a fantastic book for someone who wants some drama and intrigue. Would categorize this as mature YA for some themes related to sex and sexual assault, but those parts are easy to pass over if you aren't specifically triggered by it.
Let's see where Nova ends up! I'm here for it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am kind of going to review the two books simultaneously because I read them back to back and don't know where one ends. I adore Nova- and the brothers. But Nova is willing to go through hardships for the people she loves and even the people she doesn't. She has all the qualities of a leader as someone without the capacity to lead.
And Leon and his crew- fantastic characters. Rash, dangerous, passionate- all the things you want in a bad boy. Then you meet Kieren- bless it. Duty bound, powerful, older brother.
I love watching Nova stand on her own with her own crew of supporters- because she's just a good person.
I look forward to seeing where this goes next. There's secrets to be revealed and I WANT TO KNOW! There's a history with Nova's mom, I don't know what it is, but it has to be important, right?
Great books- great world building- great characters. This is a fantastic book for someone who wants some drama and intrigue. Would categorize this as mature YA for some themes related to sex and sexual assault, but those parts are easy to pass over if you aren't specifically triggered by it.
Let's see where Nova ends up! I'm here for it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 2, 2026
Loved this book! The characters were enjoyable and the whole crew really grew on me throughout the book. I really enjoyed the fantasy/dystopian vibes and the storyline left me intrigued the entire time. Loved the journey vibes with a little danger aspect. Nova was taken captive but was she really a captive with Leon? I don’t think so, can’t wait to see their development in the next book! Nova was brought along to their faction where she has to serve time to earn her freedom, she ran away from her old faction before she ran into Leon and his crew. She wanted to escape her old life as she felt she could do more, little did she know about the world and how things operated outside of her faction. We see how she grows into her character throughout the book slowly gaining more courage and strength. I enjoyed her interactions between Leon and his crew and found them to be honourable despite not entirely trusting her to start. Overall loved the writing style and plot of the story and can’t wait to read the next one!
October 15, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC! This does not influence my review in any way whatsoever.
Roots and Rubble follows Nova as she finds herself kidnapped away from her stifling home by 4 men. Quickly learning to survive, she undergoes harrowing trials before arriving at Echelon - what will happen next for our Indentured main character?
Nova is a less than ideal role model for women in this book. Her naivete is a fundamental part of the story, but she lets far too many things slide. From start to finish, she's been surrounded by red flags, but our girl is colour blind.
I wasn't too sure on how I liked this story at first, as there is a little message of 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend', but it has begun to grow on me.
There are clearly more books to come and I do eagerly await them. Hopefully Nova will learn some self preservation as we go along.
This will appeal to you if you like enemies to lovers, high stakes, found family, and/or dystopian stories.
Roots and Rubble follows Nova as she finds herself kidnapped away from her stifling home by 4 men. Quickly learning to survive, she undergoes harrowing trials before arriving at Echelon - what will happen next for our Indentured main character?
Nova is a less than ideal role model for women in this book. Her naivete is a fundamental part of the story, but she lets far too many things slide. From start to finish, she's been surrounded by red flags, but our girl is colour blind.
I wasn't too sure on how I liked this story at first, as there is a little message of 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend', but it has begun to grow on me.
There are clearly more books to come and I do eagerly await them. Hopefully Nova will learn some self preservation as we go along.
This will appeal to you if you like enemies to lovers, high stakes, found family, and/or dystopian stories.
May 6, 2026
“To survive, she followed the rules. To live, she’ll have to break them.” I really enjoyed this dystopian fantasy, it had me captivated from the first chapter! The FMC, Nova, is a strong, resilient 18 year old who wants the ability to choose her life's path. Growing up in a secluded faction, is all rules and structure. She reveals a hidden talent at her coming of age ceremony but before the elders can pass judgment Nova slips beyond the border to enjoy her last moments of freedom. She is taken by surprise by a ruthless faction, the Loxosceles. This is where she learns what the world is really like and where she truly finds herself.
I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the second! I was lucky enough to have met Kalleigh at a market in Calgary, she is the sweetest person!
I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the second! I was lucky enough to have met Kalleigh at a market in Calgary, she is the sweetest person!
August 22, 2026
I do recommend
Dark dystopian world, survival, action, characters shaped by ruthless and challenging circumstances, and a beginning of a crush. I really liked the book, even though it felt like a somewhat plotless introduction to the political situation of different survivor groups on Earth.
I liked the eye-opening experience we had with FMC Nova. I especially liked that Nova has other survival skills; tracking, plant knowledge other than combat, and weapons skills that other characters have to the point of ruthlessness. I believe that the plot will start to take shape better in the next part and since the sequel has already been published, I bought it right away.
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this addictive advanced reader copy!
Dark dystopian world, survival, action, characters shaped by ruthless and challenging circumstances, and a beginning of a crush. I really liked the book, even though it felt like a somewhat plotless introduction to the political situation of different survivor groups on Earth.
I liked the eye-opening experience we had with FMC Nova. I especially liked that Nova has other survival skills; tracking, plant knowledge other than combat, and weapons skills that other characters have to the point of ruthlessness. I believe that the plot will start to take shape better in the next part and since the sequel has already been published, I bought it right away.
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this addictive advanced reader copy!
June 29, 2025
“Hello! Lamb” gah I loved this read! I flew through this book. The details were so vivid I could picture every scene as I read it. I adored the characters and couldn’t wait to pick it up again to see where the story took them. Their development was perfectly written. I’m obsessed with Leon and Nova and I was kicking my feet in every scene together!
It gave me a bit of mad max vibes and I am here for it! The slow burn was just enough to keep me begging for more!
🖤 Found family
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Slow burn
The ending left me on a cliff hanger and I CANNOT wait to read the rest of this series, please release the next one like today! For a debut this book is 🤌🏼 chefs kiss!
It gave me a bit of mad max vibes and I am here for it! The slow burn was just enough to keep me begging for more!
🖤 Found family
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Slow burn
The ending left me on a cliff hanger and I CANNOT wait to read the rest of this series, please release the next one like today! For a debut this book is 🤌🏼 chefs kiss!
December 30, 2025
This is a beautifully written and immersive story. From the very first line, the reader is drawn into Nova’s world, which is described with great care and vivid detail. The atmosphere feels rich and alive throughout the book.
Nova’s character development is one of the strongest aspects of the story. Her journey of self-growth is thoughtfully portrayed and feels both authentic and meaningful.
I had the opportunity to read this book because I will be reading book two as an ARC, and it left a strong impression. This is a novel I will gladly purchase in a physical edition to keep on my bookshelf. I am very much looking forward to continuing the story in book two.
Nova’s character development is one of the strongest aspects of the story. Her journey of self-growth is thoughtfully portrayed and feels both authentic and meaningful.
I had the opportunity to read this book because I will be reading book two as an ARC, and it left a strong impression. This is a novel I will gladly purchase in a physical edition to keep on my bookshelf. I am very much looking forward to continuing the story in book two.
June 30, 2025
I really enjoyed this book & I’d like to say thank you to the author for giving me the privilege to read it. I’m new to the world of dystopian fiction but I found the world building to be very believable and engaging. I enjoyed the character growth of Nova (the MC) and I can’t wait to see the development of her relationship with Leon.
But that cliffhanger? Da fudge man 🤣 Needless to say I’m anxious for book two!
But that cliffhanger? Da fudge man 🤣 Needless to say I’m anxious for book two!
July 30, 2025
What a refreshing new take on a dystopian world. The author weaves a tale that will draw you in and leave you wanting more! I could not put Roots & Rubble down. The characters are intriguing and engaging. Learning this world through Nova's eyes had me glued to the pages. I absolutely cannot wait for the next one!
January 4, 2026
With a slow burn to start this story you really get to know Nova, as she struggles to know herself in Whitebark Haven.
But once the story, and her journey, began to take shape, I was hooked on to her and I couldn’t stop reading! I can’t wait to see where her character goes, how she develops and changes while staying true to herself in this changing world. More please!!!
But once the story, and her journey, began to take shape, I was hooked on to her and I couldn’t stop reading! I can’t wait to see where her character goes, how she develops and changes while staying true to herself in this changing world. More please!!!
June 20, 2025
The Roots and Rubble cover ensnared me instantly and when I started the book I was just enraptured with the story. I love the chemistry between Nova and Leon. and the nickname Lamb... I can't wait to continue this series.
January 13, 2026
It took me a little bit to get into Roots and Rubble. It was a very different style than I am used to but in a good way. The way you move through this world was fun and interesting. I ended up enjoying this very much!
September 7, 2026
It’s a story about Nova, whose whole life in this society has already been decided for her. But she starts to question everything and wants to actually see and understand the world she lives in.
I really loved the aspect of Nova’s knowledge of plants and their healing properties, and how she tries to show her society that she has other skills and abilities than the ones that were chosen for her.
I also loved the sweet slow burn between her and Leon.
Great world-building, deep characters, character growth, and a captivating plot. And that ending… WOW!
I really loved the aspect of Nova’s knowledge of plants and their healing properties, and how she tries to show her society that she has other skills and abilities than the ones that were chosen for her.
I also loved the sweet slow burn between her and Leon.
Great world-building, deep characters, character growth, and a captivating plot. And that ending… WOW!
October 13, 2026
Dystopian. Post-apocalyptic. Survival.
This was an immersive read that I did not want to put down. A fantastic journey of awakening and re-evaluation. It is all about discovering how important it is to challenge yourself and believe in yourself.
Nova finds herself behind enemy lines in a hostile world and she needs to pull out all stops to survive. Her attitude to the realities her new experiences brings forth reinvents her. Her strength is tested as she needs to adapt. I felt so much excitement and found myself really barracking for her.
Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the complimentary ebook. All opinions are my own
This was an immersive read that I did not want to put down. A fantastic journey of awakening and re-evaluation. It is all about discovering how important it is to challenge yourself and believe in yourself.
Nova finds herself behind enemy lines in a hostile world and she needs to pull out all stops to survive. Her attitude to the realities her new experiences brings forth reinvents her. Her strength is tested as she needs to adapt. I felt so much excitement and found myself really barracking for her.
Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the complimentary ebook. All opinions are my own
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews