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The Ones on the Brink

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453 pages, Paperback

Published November 17, 2025

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Alya ( 20 comments restriction ).
622 reviews219 followers
April 5, 2026
✨️ ARC REVIEW ✨️
The ones on the brink by Utku Ceren Deniz


Thoughts
Just a heads up I'm going to be intentionally vague with the plot as this book is truly an experience on it's own from start to end. This was more than a dystopian novel set in the year 2120, a book about climate change, apocalypse and a group of kids come together to save the world from annihilation. The world building was just stunningly haunting, I don't think I've quite read anything like it.
It reads like philosophical exploration, it's sharp and definitely gets you thinking. This was a masterpiece yet a challenging read in one, I say that because it isn't my goto genre however I do love reading a bit of everything and this one definitely delivered! This is my first reading experience with this author and it definitely won't be my last! Her writing style is truly something else! I was hooked from the first page, despite this book being heavy, emotional and thought provoking I didn't expect to be this attached to the characters, I almost felt like I was living their journey with them, this is one of the books that I wish could be turned into a series or movie. The universe feels like art, it really showcases the author's talent! Easily a March favourite

Themes
▪︎ Chosen ones
▪︎ Psychic powers
▪︎ Emotional & heavy
▪︎ Last humans alive
▪︎ Destructive Anthropocentrism


Plot Summary
The plot follows Nil, a girl left behind as a baby who grows up facing a tough, unforgiving world. Over time, she becomes part of a group with special powers, working together to battle demons and the corruption around them.

Many thanks to the author for the copy

My Bookstagram
Profile Image for leslie mayorga.
336 reviews4 followers
April 1, 2026
Slightly different from what I normally read. But I was really into it. It grabbed my attention from the beginning and throughout the rest of the book. I loved the supernatural paranormal aspect of it. It also had demons, Lucifer, Lilith and so much more. I’m drawn to it. I’m a big fan of the TV show supernatural so reading this I kinda got a glimpse of it. This book also takes place in the future. During this book there are a bunch of kids placed into a sort of safe house to start training to save the world from the apocalypse. Now how are a bunch of kids going to save the world?? Because they have special abilities!!! Nil which is the FMC can see visions of what can happen, there’s also a shape shifter, mind reader, healer, time-walker, an immortal and so much more! If those abilities didn’t grab your attention I don’t know why. They have a teacher that trains them. During their training, they encounter demons and difficult tasks. Amongst trying to save the world they find out that one of them is a traitor! There is a subplot of romance which I thought was nice to see but it didn’t take away from the story. I enjoyed the authors style of writing. The names took a while for me to grasp but once I got it, it was smooth sailing. Overall, the plot was very interesting and the characters were enjoyable it’s hard to pick a favorite. Enjoyed the paranormal/ supernatural and the secrets.

Thank you Utku for a copy of this book!

Would I recommend?
Yes
Profile Image for Joanna.
131 reviews
March 5, 2026
I picked up The Ones on the Brink knowing it was outside my usual comfort zone, and it definitely challenged me as a reader.

The story follows Nil, a girl abandoned at birth who grows up in a harsh world before joining a group of power holders fighting demons and corruption. The book is dark, philosophical, and filled with heavy reflections about morality, justice, and the nature of evil.

What stood out to me most was Nil herself. Despite everything she’s endured, she remains incredibly compassionate and pure-hearted, which makes her a character you can’t help but root for.

The romance isn’t the central focus, but it adds an emotional layer that makes certain moments hit even harder.

This is not a light read—it’s intense, morally complex, and sometimes emotionally draining—but if you enjoy stories that explore the blurred line between light and darkness, this one will definitely make you think.
47 reviews3 followers
April 3, 2026
📖 Review – The Ones on the Brink-
An Elegy for the End of the World
✍️ Author: Utku Ceren Deniz
🌍 Genre: dystopian fiction · philosophical fiction · supernatural apocalypse
💡 Tropes: chosen ones, end of the world, psychic powers, trust vs faith, group under pressure, “last humans alive”, sacrifice, power vs humanity


This book is more than a dystopian novel; it is a sharp philosophical manifesto directed at the human condition. Set in the year 2120, the text functions as a warped mirror, reflecting the darkest fears of our present: ecological collapse, the death of empathy and the dictatorship of technology.
Strengths: A Visceral Perspective
1. The Philosophy of Solitude and "Difference"
From its opening lines, the novel establishes a melancholic and introspective atmosphere. Nil, the protagonist, is not just a "paranormal" character but a symbol of the individual awakened in a sea of people "unaware of being truly alive." Describing solitude as a "singular virtue" is one of the book's most powerful ideas, transforming isolation from a stigma into a form of resistance.
2. A World Built on Contrast
The contrast between human cruelty and the purity of animals is the emotional engine of the story. Nil’s bond with her cats (Gölge, Saruman, Gandalf, etc.) provides the only moments of warmth in a morally frozen universe. The author succeeds in creating an overwhelming sensory landscape: the smell of burning, the sky "rented" to the clouds, and forests that have lost their color.
3. A Courageous and Radical Ending
Unlike many dystopias that seek a shred of hope for the human race, this story offers a conclusion of brutal honesty. The idea that the planet's salvation depends on human extinction is a bold narrative choice that forces the reader to ask: "If we are the virus, do we truly deserve a cure?"

Core Themes
• Destructive Anthropocentrism: A critique of humans who "speak more than they listen" and who have made the world worse than Hell.
• Destiny vs. Free Will: The spiritual mission of the "Paranormals" suggests a divine plan, yet the final decision ultimately rests with individual consciousness.
• Nature as a Victim: The extinction of species (highlighted by Nazlı’s long list) serves as an indictment against human greed.

Verdict: Is it worth reading?
Yes, if you are looking for a read that challenges you. This is not a "comfortable" book. The style is dense, poetic, and often heavy with profound pessimism. However, beneath the layers of darkness, there is a strange beauty in the loyalty of the group and their respect for everything living, except their own species.

Key Quote: "Being ordinary kept one alive... To be different, on the other hand, meant drawing attention—humanity had always been inclined to condemn what it could not comprehend."

Conclusion: A thought-provoking work that transforms the dystopian genre into a meditation on morality and the legacy we leave behind. Utku Ceren Deniz writes a farewell letter to humanity, signed with ink full of regret, but also a mystical hope for a future planet free from exploitation.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Profile Image for pastiesandpages - Gavin.
562 reviews13 followers
May 14, 2026
Thank you to @utkucerendeniz for the gifted ebook.

This novel isn't easy to categorise. It's primarily a supernatural fantasy but it's also a futuristic climate fiction, a philosophical story, a morality tale & an introspective look at belief, love & life.

Eight young people with supernatural abilities ranging from shapeshifting to elemental control to mind reading and premonition are brought together by a mysterious mentor to live together & train in their abilities in readiness for the final battle with the demons, Lucifer & Lilith & their brood, as the apocalypse draws near.
Approximately 100 years from now the Earth has been ravaged by climate change. Humanity itself stands on the brink of destruction.

Nil is a young teenage girl who is one of the eight. She has led a difficult, lonely life at an orphanage with only her beloved cats for company. Some of her dreams terrify her and it's only when the kindly but mysterious dark man, Wayshower Bilge, arrives to offer her a new life that she finds her dreams are premonitions. She is one of the Paranormals and she must learn to control her abilities along with her new friends.

In preparation for the final confrontation the group faces off against what should be a lesser demon but soon finds nothing is straightforward. Unexpected developments threaten to destroy them and Nil has to quickly learn who she can trust and who deserves her love.

The prose is atmospheric and there is plenty of time for character development.
After the initial events the pace slows right down. It's a long novel and the writing is designed to make you take your time and question everything. We particularly spend a long time with Nil and get to know her every thought as she is our gateway into pondering the state of humanity, the nature of love, good and evil, and whether Earth is worth saving.
This introspective style won't be for those that like their fantasy action-packed but if you're prepared to take your time then it's a very unique reading experience that gives an unexpectedly startling conclusion.
Profile Image for Kenyah The Cultivated Reader.
57 reviews3 followers
April 19, 2026
4.5 rounded up! The Ones on the Brink was quite a wild ride! It is truly in a league of its own. I've never read any story like it. At a high level, it is a philosophical story that explores questions of morality, faith, love, and purpose. More specifically, it is a climate fiction set in a dystopian era featuring various religious references and figures with elements of fantasy, thriller, and horror. There is even some Turkish history, and I took the time to (try to) learn how to pronounce the characters' names correctly. It sounds like a lot is going on, but it worked seamlessly. I became instantly attached to the main character, Nil. Her character development was well-paced and authentic. Her bond with her cats was my favorite! I also easily connected to and differentiated between the other gifted outcasts. Each had a unique backstory and personification. We follow them as they hone their abilities to face an apocalypse brought on by human greed and overconsumption. There were several twists I did not see coming, and the ending threw me for a loop. My only critique was the consistent racial descriptions were a bit unexpected as a Black American reader and sometimes took me out of the story. I mostly attributed that to cultural differences and a language barrier, and I hope other readers will also remain open-minded and not interpret any malicious intent. A sensitivity reader in the future could help make the language more global. Overall, I loved this. I learned, pondered, stressed, exclaimed, and sighed in relief. I frequently highlighted poignant messages or turning points in the characters' journeys. I will revisit passages over time. I would go on this emotional journey again in a heartbeat.
Profile Image for Quillkeepers Press.
4 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2026
The Ones on the Brink is one of those rare books that feels less like a conventional novel and more like a philosophical exploration of the human spirit. Utku Ceren Deniz creates a hauntingly vivid future world, but the real journey unfolds within the mind and soul of the protagonist, Nil.

Nil’s deep introspection and sense of isolation make her a compelling guide through a world that has lost much of its moral compass. The novel doesn’t shy away from confronting humanity’s darker tendencies, including violence, environmental destruction, and apathy, but it balances that darkness with questions about consciousness, empathy, and the potential for transformation.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the story is the introduction of the paranormal, which adds a mythic and metaphysical layer to the narrative and characters. Rather than feeling like typical supernatural elements, these powers serve as symbols of deeper human potential and awareness.

This is a book that invites reflection. It asks readers to consider what it means to remain compassionate in a harsh world and the responsibilities that come with truly seeing the truth around us.

For readers who enjoy philosophical fiction, spiritual themes, and stories that challenge the way we think about humanity and the future, The Ones on the Brink is a memorable and thought-provoking read.
Profile Image for blushwithalfiaa.
39 reviews
March 14, 2026
The Ones on the Brink is not the kind of story you simply read and move on from. From the very beginning, the book creates a reflective and almost haunting atmosphere that immediately pulls you into its world. The writing feels philosophical and thoughtful, often exploring ideas about humanity, loneliness, and what it truly means to be different in a world that struggles to understand those who stand apart.

What stood out to me the most was how introspective the story feels. The narrative takes its time exploring the characters and gradually reveals a bigger, more mysterious picture. Each character carries something unique that sets them apart, which adds depth to the story.

The book blends psychological and supernatural elements in a way that keeps you curious about what is really unfolding beneath the surface. At times, the writing feels almost philosophical as it reflects on humanity, loneliness, and what it means to be different.
If you enjoy thoughtful stories with supernatural touches and deeper themes, this is definitely a book worth checking out.

Overall, The Ones on the Brink is a unique and thought-provoking read that stays with you even after you finish it.
Profile Image for Eloni.
21 reviews
March 14, 2026
What if the fate of humanity depended not on power… but on understanding ourselves? The Ones on the Brink is not the kind of fantasy that relies on battles or spectacle. Instead, it unfolds like a quiet reflection on humanity itself. In a world where moral and spiritual direction seems to be slipping away, certain individuals are given extraordinary abilities — not as a blessing, but as a final opportunity for humanity to confront its own fears, memories and choices. The story moves beyond the idea of supernatural powers and instead explores deeper questions about responsibility, destiny and the fragile nature of human morality. Nil was my fav - Intelligent, courageous and compassionate, she carries the pain of growing up as an orphan who was never chosen. That sense of longing shapes her journey and adds an emotional depth to the narrative. This book felt quite different from my usual reads. Rather than a fast-paced fantasy adventure, it reads more like a philosophical exploration wrapped in a fantastical setting. Readers who enjoy reflective storytelling and thought-provoking themes will likely appreciate it the most.
Profile Image for Jessica Durazo.
85 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2026
This book completely captivated me. It’s powerful, emotional, and far deeper than I expected.
I loved the theme of demons and the people willing to risk everything to stand against them—it felt intense and meaningful.

Nil was, without question, my favorite character. She is intelligent, brave, and adventurous, yet carries the quiet ache of being an orphan who was never adopted. That feeling of not being chosen shapes her in such a profound way, but even in her vulnerability, she refuses to give up.

The story flows effortlessly and is impossible to put down. I found myself completely immersed, experiencing every emotional high and low alongside the characters.

And the ending… wow. It was powerful. It truly made me reflect, and I won’t lie—it left me a little sad. But in the best way. ☺️

Highly recommend. ✨💫
2 reviews
March 6, 2026
The author has a unique writing style. She is very talented, and her talent can be seen in every sentence she writes. The Ones on the Brink is such a captivating book that you won’t be able to put it down. At the same time, it makes you think about difficult questions. Uygur was my favorite character, and every character in the book is written in great depth. When you finish the book, you will be shocked by the ending. The book has an unusual ending, but that is what makes it perfect. Long story short, it is a kind of book that everyone should read before they die.
Profile Image for IMBEE.
23 reviews
March 29, 2026
I enjoyed the book, even though it was out of my comfort zone. It was enjoyable, it had a bit of everything, some romance but not very romance centered, religion, dystopia, and many more. I think the only issue I had was that, I was not connecting with the characters but I still had fun reading and learning a bit about them individually and their talents.

I do recommend more people to give it a try! Also the small graphics on each chapter helped me get a better visualization on how the characters were going to look like, I liked that.
Profile Image for Reader.
1 review
March 6, 2026
While reading, this book takes you from where you are and carries you into a completely different world. As I turned the pages, I felt both great enjoyment and excitement. Even after finishing the book, the feelings it left behind continue to live in my mind. I think this clearly shows how powerful the author’s writing is. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who wants to journey into a different world. 📚✨
1 review
March 6, 2026
The Ones on the Brink is one of those books that completely pulls you into its world. The story is intense, emotional, and incredibly gripping from beginning to end. What I loved most was how real the characters felt -their fears, struggles, and moments of self-discovery make the story deeply relatable. It’s a powerful, thought-provoking read that stays with you long after the last page. The author is incredible too.
1 review
March 6, 2026
The subject, the language of expression, the flow of events... it is such a beautifully crafted work that I am sure you will find yourself in many feelings and thoughts while reading. A special work that will suit your library and you.🌹
1 review
March 6, 2026
.It has become my go-to book ever since I read it. The world in the book draws you in so much that you don't want to leave and you keep reading with curiosity. It's an absolutely wonderful book, I highly recommend it.
1 review
March 6, 2026
It's a book that drew me in within a short time and I couldn't put it down while reading. The author is very talented. The book prompts you to ask deep questions while reading. Each character's story is unique and carefully developed. It's one of the best books I've read.
1 review
March 6, 2026
This is one of the best books I've ever read, I highly recommend it. The author is amazing. ❤️
1 review
March 8, 2026
This was one of the best books I've ever read. You should definitely give it a chance.
Profile Image for Kim Layman.
266 reviews14 followers
April 16, 2026
A book about climate change, the apocalypse, and group of kids brought together to save the world from annihilation? Count me in.

I was struck by the images of a broken and ravaged world-one that had been abused and mistreated by humanity. People’s gluttony knows no bounds.

There was also strong David and Goliath themes-the children bs the demons determined to destroy humanity and finally claim Earth for their own. They have waited for so long, and victory is almost theirs. They will not lose.

The author not only gives us tension through the battle between good and evil, but also through the intrigue and secrets swirling around the various characters in the house. It becomes apparent that not all is as it seems, and someone, or something is trying to sabotage the group before they have a chance to battle for the Earth. Who is the snake among them?

I will say that I had mixed feelings about Nil, the FMC. I felt that she ultimately wanted to do what was right, but she was incredibly naive and very fickle. But I’m guessing the author intentionally crafted Nil that way. Nil isn’t bad, and she does have a good heart, but passion and infatuation clouds her judgment-leaving her unable to see the truth in front of her.

I loved Aliş, his love for others, and his joy for life. A truer friend, there never was. He is loyal to a fault, and it leads him to have faith when others were shaken. He’s the rock that is unmovable, even when danger is staring him and his friends in the face.

And the ending…It was the most fitting way to close this story. Any other ending would have cheapened the lessons the teenagers learned, and would have made this book weaker. Hard books need bittersweet finales, and that’s what the author gave us.

Overall, a very enjoyable novel. 4.5 stars

A big thank you to the author for my gifted copy. My opinion is my own.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews