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Starbright #2
Balance Broken
Balance Broken is the second in the Starbright series. In the first book, Justice Buried, Astrea fights to remain independent in a world which demands she submit to an ancient prophecy. In Balance Broken, she learns that independence means little when the world is depending on her.
The world cries for Order, but she’s igniting a revolution.
One hundred years before, the Great Sickness reduced the world to three cities. Now, Asphodel no longer lingers underground, and the Starbright Maiden of Justice has returned.
Everyone has faith in Astrea’s ability to save the world - but only she knows the dark truth about her powers.
Astrea teams with Stian, Lexan, and Zarea to enlist the help of Lord Hadeon of Tartarus. They hope Hadeon will aid in attacking Asphodel’s First Leader Keirna, but the Destroyer usually takes lives, not sides.
As Astrea discovers life outside of Asphodel, she begins to wonder whether the remaining world is too broken to save - especially since the price of freedom just might be her own life.
The world cries for Order, but she’s igniting a revolution.
One hundred years before, the Great Sickness reduced the world to three cities. Now, Asphodel no longer lingers underground, and the Starbright Maiden of Justice has returned.
Everyone has faith in Astrea’s ability to save the world - but only she knows the dark truth about her powers.
Astrea teams with Stian, Lexan, and Zarea to enlist the help of Lord Hadeon of Tartarus. They hope Hadeon will aid in attacking Asphodel’s First Leader Keirna, but the Destroyer usually takes lives, not sides.
As Astrea discovers life outside of Asphodel, she begins to wonder whether the remaining world is too broken to save - especially since the price of freedom just might be her own life.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2014
About the author
Hilary Thompson
40 books226 followersHilary Thompson was born to parents who made a habit of taking roads less traveled. But she was also a first child, and an independent, willful child, so she has made a habit of taking a few roads on her own.
After trying on hats made for artists, architects, restaurant and retail workers, landscape designers, legal secretaries, and professional students, she retreated back to her first loves of education and writing.
Hilary now teaches high school full time, writes whenever and wherever she can, and reads as much as her eyes can handle. She also tries not to spoil her own independent, willful children or neglect her wonderful soul-mate of a husband too much. She tends to ignore laundry baskets and dirty dishes.
After trying on hats made for artists, architects, restaurant and retail workers, landscape designers, legal secretaries, and professional students, she retreated back to her first loves of education and writing.
Hilary now teaches high school full time, writes whenever and wherever she can, and reads as much as her eyes can handle. She also tries not to spoil her own independent, willful children or neglect her wonderful soul-mate of a husband too much. She tends to ignore laundry baskets and dirty dishes.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 11, 2015
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”
----Charlotte Brontë
Hilary Thompson, an American YA author, pens the second book, Balance Broken in the Starbright series, where the story continues with Astrea, Lexan, Stian and Zarea trying to break free from the bond of prophecy that dictates their fate to save their city, on the other hand, the people of their city from where they just escaped are dependent on Astrea and her leadership to save them from their ill-fate.
Synopsis:
Balance Broken is the second in the Starbright series. In the first book, Justice Buried, Astrea fights to remain independent in a world which demands she submit to an ancient prophecy. In Balance Broken, she learns that independence means little when the world is depending on her.
The world cries for Order, but she’s igniting a revolution.
One hundred years before, the Great Sickness reduced the world to three cities. Now, Asphodel no longer lingers underground, and the Starbright Maiden of Justice has returned.
Everyone has faith in Astrea’s ability to save the world - but only she knows the dark truth about her powers.
Astrea teams with Stian, Lexan, and Zarea to enlist the help of Lord Hadeon of Tartarus. They hope Hadeon will aid in attacking Asphodel’s First Leader Keirna, but the Destroyer usually takes lives, not sides.
As Astrea discovers life outside of Asphodel, she begins to wonder whether the remaining world is too broken to save - especially since the price of freedom just might be her own life.
Once again, let's take another moment to wow at that beautiful book cover that have been carefully and smartly created to fall into the pattern of the story. In the first book, we see Astrea discovering about her fire power and along with her friends, Lexan, with whom she has been promised to be betrothed as per the prophecy, Stian, the hot guy from the world above, and Zarea, escape to a different world, where she realizes that the people she actually trusted, betrayed her with the lie that she will be the one to save the three cities and bring them together, whereas she also found out that there were people who will not stop at anything to stop Astrea from following the prophecy, and on top of everything, Astrea wants to be free and independent no only in the field of saving the world, but also in the love sector. Because by maintaining a balance in every fields of her life can make Astrea the Lady of Justice who will save the world.
Okay, now some readers might think that why is there so much romance and chemistry in the book, but let me tell, as you keep on reading you will realize that love plays a pivotal role in Astrea's life to fulfill the prophecy. Firstly, Astrea is attracted towards Stian, but she has to be together with Lexan in order to save the world as their power together grows stronger, whereas Astrea wants to be independent and do the things on her own way.
The writing style is once again left me astounded with the quality and flawlessness. The narrative is easy to comprehend with and flows freely. The prose is articulate with a fast pace layered with lots of action and mysteries and danger lurking at every turn of the page.
The readers left with unanswered questions from the previous book, will now realize the deep hidden secrets behind this carefully and skillfully developed fantasy as well as science-fiction filled world, that will not will fascinate the readers, but will also surprise them. The world developing is done with vivid imagery as well as with detailed descriptions.
The characters, especially the main ones, grow out of their space, and makes the readers fall for them. There are lots of supporting characters that are strikingly sketched with lots of depth. The author introduces a lots of evil characters that have the power to instill fear into the readers mind with their great and villainous demeanor. Lord Hadeon, the king of city, Tartarus, is one such character that makes the plot quite chilling and scary, as Lexan and Astrea pleads with the king to save them from their own city.
The chemistry, as usual, is portrayed with lots of passion and depth. There are lots of adrenaline-rushing moments and might give a Hunger Games as well as Divergent kind of feel, which keep the readers on their edges all throughout the book. The ploy unrolls like a movie with action, drama, romance, betrayal, power, fear, death and friendship, in a world that is breath-taking and enigmatic and that definitely made me looking forward towards the third book in this series.
Verdict: A must read series that will not disappoint you, I assure you. So YA dystopian lovers grab a copy of this book now!
Courtesy: Thanks to YA Bound Book Tours, for the review copy.
----Charlotte Brontë
Hilary Thompson, an American YA author, pens the second book, Balance Broken in the Starbright series, where the story continues with Astrea, Lexan, Stian and Zarea trying to break free from the bond of prophecy that dictates their fate to save their city, on the other hand, the people of their city from where they just escaped are dependent on Astrea and her leadership to save them from their ill-fate.
Synopsis:
Balance Broken is the second in the Starbright series. In the first book, Justice Buried, Astrea fights to remain independent in a world which demands she submit to an ancient prophecy. In Balance Broken, she learns that independence means little when the world is depending on her.
The world cries for Order, but she’s igniting a revolution.
One hundred years before, the Great Sickness reduced the world to three cities. Now, Asphodel no longer lingers underground, and the Starbright Maiden of Justice has returned.
Everyone has faith in Astrea’s ability to save the world - but only she knows the dark truth about her powers.
Astrea teams with Stian, Lexan, and Zarea to enlist the help of Lord Hadeon of Tartarus. They hope Hadeon will aid in attacking Asphodel’s First Leader Keirna, but the Destroyer usually takes lives, not sides.
As Astrea discovers life outside of Asphodel, she begins to wonder whether the remaining world is too broken to save - especially since the price of freedom just might be her own life.
Once again, let's take another moment to wow at that beautiful book cover that have been carefully and smartly created to fall into the pattern of the story. In the first book, we see Astrea discovering about her fire power and along with her friends, Lexan, with whom she has been promised to be betrothed as per the prophecy, Stian, the hot guy from the world above, and Zarea, escape to a different world, where she realizes that the people she actually trusted, betrayed her with the lie that she will be the one to save the three cities and bring them together, whereas she also found out that there were people who will not stop at anything to stop Astrea from following the prophecy, and on top of everything, Astrea wants to be free and independent no only in the field of saving the world, but also in the love sector. Because by maintaining a balance in every fields of her life can make Astrea the Lady of Justice who will save the world.
Okay, now some readers might think that why is there so much romance and chemistry in the book, but let me tell, as you keep on reading you will realize that love plays a pivotal role in Astrea's life to fulfill the prophecy. Firstly, Astrea is attracted towards Stian, but she has to be together with Lexan in order to save the world as their power together grows stronger, whereas Astrea wants to be independent and do the things on her own way.
The writing style is once again left me astounded with the quality and flawlessness. The narrative is easy to comprehend with and flows freely. The prose is articulate with a fast pace layered with lots of action and mysteries and danger lurking at every turn of the page.
The readers left with unanswered questions from the previous book, will now realize the deep hidden secrets behind this carefully and skillfully developed fantasy as well as science-fiction filled world, that will not will fascinate the readers, but will also surprise them. The world developing is done with vivid imagery as well as with detailed descriptions.
The characters, especially the main ones, grow out of their space, and makes the readers fall for them. There are lots of supporting characters that are strikingly sketched with lots of depth. The author introduces a lots of evil characters that have the power to instill fear into the readers mind with their great and villainous demeanor. Lord Hadeon, the king of city, Tartarus, is one such character that makes the plot quite chilling and scary, as Lexan and Astrea pleads with the king to save them from their own city.
The chemistry, as usual, is portrayed with lots of passion and depth. There are lots of adrenaline-rushing moments and might give a Hunger Games as well as Divergent kind of feel, which keep the readers on their edges all throughout the book. The ploy unrolls like a movie with action, drama, romance, betrayal, power, fear, death and friendship, in a world that is breath-taking and enigmatic and that definitely made me looking forward towards the third book in this series.
Verdict: A must read series that will not disappoint you, I assure you. So YA dystopian lovers grab a copy of this book now!
Courtesy: Thanks to YA Bound Book Tours, for the review copy.
July 31, 2015
Review originally posted on my blog.
Balance Broken is the sequel of Justice Buried and follows Astrea and Lexan outside of Asphodel, how they team up with Stian and Zarea and go to Tartarus to ask Lord Hadeon for help in defeating First Leader Keirna.
To begin with, the thing I absolutely love about this novel is the range of characters and their evolution. New characters show up and most of them are weighty for the plot and spice it up a bit. I must say, I have imagined Hadeon otherwise (old, slimy, unsightly, sitting all day long on his throne) than how he is actually - a handsome, compelling young (well, this is questionable) tyrant. He is very intriguing and Astrea feels the same as I do. I also like the True Prophet and I am curious to know more about him and the Three Sisters of Elysium.
I enjoy a lot the development of the characters we have already known from the first book. Astrea is the perfect example. I could see her evolution taking shape since Justice Buried - I have mentioned in my review that she starts realising things and questioning her decisions. Well, when I reached the end of Balance Broken, I saw a new, different Astrea: more understanding, more responsible, more aware of many matters of which she was not aware in Justice Buried, more determined, as well as broken, which is no surprise, considering the situations she went through. However, I saw a better version of Astrea and now I am fond on her. Lexan is still my favourite character; he is devoted, keen on learning as much as he can, determined to be by Astrea's side and help her. It annoyed me though that at some points he seemed too weak in comparison with Astrea, not only in terms of courage, but also in terms of the role he has to play in the prophecy. In other words, I believe he deserves more credit and attention because his part is considerable too, and he needs to be a little more bold. As far as Stian and Zarea are concerned, I think they are less mature than Astrea and Lexan. This is funny of course because Stian and Zarea are older than the two Asphodel teens, yet they let stubborness affect their relationship exactly like two kids.
Furthermore, Balance Broken features, likewise Justice Buried, an interesting mix of genres. The dystopian elements are more highlighted in this novel than in the previous one and they blend perfectly with the high-fantasy, SF and romance ones.
The only problem I had while reading Balance Broken was that some events and facts were too predictable. That is why the tension that should have grown and bursted out at some points was kept back. What I mean by this is, this novel misses the element of surprise, and when there is no element of surprise, the tension doesn't grow, expand, so there is no climax either. There were some situations that could have been really intense, but because I could predict them the tension dissipated. This is how it happened when someone died (yes, someone important dies in this book, but who?). Normally, when a character - good or bad, main or secondary - dies, the reader feels somehow different than before - happy (available for sadists, I suppose), sad, shocked, and it is because death usually provokes strong emotions and because the reader can't (or shouldn't be able to) foresee the death of a character. Nevertheless, when that someone died, I was like ”Oh, well... I was expecting it to come about.” Another example concerning this subject is that I am sure who is the third child involved in the prophecy, and I shouldn't be! It is not just a hunch, we are given so many clues. Honestly, I would be glad to discover I am wrong, but it remains to be seen.
Overall, this book is a great sequel. I have pointed out my problem with it simply because I love the Starbright series and I look forward to reading the next novel and to rating it with more than four stars.
Balance Broken is the sequel of Justice Buried and follows Astrea and Lexan outside of Asphodel, how they team up with Stian and Zarea and go to Tartarus to ask Lord Hadeon for help in defeating First Leader Keirna.
To begin with, the thing I absolutely love about this novel is the range of characters and their evolution. New characters show up and most of them are weighty for the plot and spice it up a bit. I must say, I have imagined Hadeon otherwise (old, slimy, unsightly, sitting all day long on his throne) than how he is actually - a handsome, compelling young (well, this is questionable) tyrant. He is very intriguing and Astrea feels the same as I do. I also like the True Prophet and I am curious to know more about him and the Three Sisters of Elysium.
I enjoy a lot the development of the characters we have already known from the first book. Astrea is the perfect example. I could see her evolution taking shape since Justice Buried - I have mentioned in my review that she starts realising things and questioning her decisions. Well, when I reached the end of Balance Broken, I saw a new, different Astrea: more understanding, more responsible, more aware of many matters of which she was not aware in Justice Buried, more determined, as well as broken, which is no surprise, considering the situations she went through. However, I saw a better version of Astrea and now I am fond on her. Lexan is still my favourite character; he is devoted, keen on learning as much as he can, determined to be by Astrea's side and help her. It annoyed me though that at some points he seemed too weak in comparison with Astrea, not only in terms of courage, but also in terms of the role he has to play in the prophecy. In other words, I believe he deserves more credit and attention because his part is considerable too, and he needs to be a little more bold. As far as Stian and Zarea are concerned, I think they are less mature than Astrea and Lexan. This is funny of course because Stian and Zarea are older than the two Asphodel teens, yet they let stubborness affect their relationship exactly like two kids.
Furthermore, Balance Broken features, likewise Justice Buried, an interesting mix of genres. The dystopian elements are more highlighted in this novel than in the previous one and they blend perfectly with the high-fantasy, SF and romance ones.
The only problem I had while reading Balance Broken was that some events and facts were too predictable. That is why the tension that should have grown and bursted out at some points was kept back. What I mean by this is, this novel misses the element of surprise, and when there is no element of surprise, the tension doesn't grow, expand, so there is no climax either. There were some situations that could have been really intense, but because I could predict them the tension dissipated. This is how it happened when someone died (yes, someone important dies in this book, but who?). Normally, when a character - good or bad, main or secondary - dies, the reader feels somehow different than before - happy (available for sadists, I suppose), sad, shocked, and it is because death usually provokes strong emotions and because the reader can't (or shouldn't be able to) foresee the death of a character. Nevertheless, when that someone died, I was like ”Oh, well... I was expecting it to come about.” Another example concerning this subject is that I am sure who is the third child involved in the prophecy, and I shouldn't be! It is not just a hunch, we are given so many clues. Honestly, I would be glad to discover I am wrong, but it remains to be seen.
Overall, this book is a great sequel. I have pointed out my problem with it simply because I love the Starbright series and I look forward to reading the next novel and to rating it with more than four stars.
October 30, 2014
Really enjoyed this book, took things higher, and we got to meet some new people, and yeah, just really awesome!
February 13, 2017
The second story in the Starbright series was a tough one for me to finish reading. Not because it was boring or slow with middle book syndrome but because the plot was odd and seemed to rub me the wrong way going in places i didn't expect. I truly do not know if i will read the third book. it's not that hated the second book but i really just dunno right now.
Balance Broken finds the story with Astrea & Lexan seeking the aid & advice of two Tribesfolk named Stian (BLEH) & Zarea. If you read my first review or any of my CR updates of this book you know that i despise Stian with my whole being. His & Trea's relationship rubbed me the wrong way greatly. And then low and behold we meet a character that takes the cake and all the other desserts on Creeper. And man do i hate him more than Stian.
As Astrea & company travel to Tartarus (yeah like taht doesnt scream bad idea just by the name of greek mythology Hell) we learn more and more about their powers and the prophecies surrounding this world and Astrea.
This book is rife with greek mythology goodness which i really do enjoy but the certain plot points and scenes just kind of rub me wrong that this book is just not a favorite.
Astrea has some great character development and really pushes at being and learning to just be herself and find her destiny on her own not linked to anyone else. It's a great girl power feeling and i totally understand her needs
Lexan is perfect as always, he is definitely still number 1-5 of favorite character in this series. it would have been really nice to have his POV in some chapters but oh well.
Overall the book was not terrible but just not a favorite. Maybe i will read the last one (i saw Lexan has a POV) but who knows. Only time will tell.
Balance Broken finds the story with Astrea & Lexan seeking the aid & advice of two Tribesfolk named Stian (BLEH) & Zarea. If you read my first review or any of my CR updates of this book you know that i despise Stian with my whole being. His & Trea's relationship rubbed me the wrong way greatly. And then low and behold we meet a character that takes the cake and all the other desserts on Creeper. And man do i hate him more than Stian.
As Astrea & company travel to Tartarus (yeah like taht doesnt scream bad idea just by the name of greek mythology Hell) we learn more and more about their powers and the prophecies surrounding this world and Astrea.
This book is rife with greek mythology goodness which i really do enjoy but the certain plot points and scenes just kind of rub me wrong that this book is just not a favorite.
Astrea has some great character development and really pushes at being and learning to just be herself and find her destiny on her own not linked to anyone else. It's a great girl power feeling and i totally understand her needs
Lexan is perfect as always, he is definitely still number 1-5 of favorite character in this series. it would have been really nice to have his POV in some chapters but oh well.
Overall the book was not terrible but just not a favorite. Maybe i will read the last one (i saw Lexan has a POV) but who knows. Only time will tell.
May 17, 2017
Find all my reviews: https://jaynikkibelthoughts.wordpress...
Oh that ending. I cheered. I hated the beginning but loved the end. I can't put this series down. One more novel to go then I think it's three novellas I will read after.
Astrea was making me so damn frustrated in the beginning of the book. The reason this didn't get a full five stars is because of the damn love square that was at the beginning of this book. I am happy with the end I will say again because no more love square. She chose the guy I have been rooting for since day 1.
I'm so happy. I already have the third book and starting it today. I need to know how this ends. Will Astrea die because of all the darkness that she has to cleanse? I hope not. Need the next book like a heroine addict needs their next score.
Oh that ending. I cheered. I hated the beginning but loved the end. I can't put this series down. One more novel to go then I think it's three novellas I will read after.
Astrea was making me so damn frustrated in the beginning of the book. The reason this didn't get a full five stars is because of the damn love square that was at the beginning of this book. I am happy with the end I will say again because no more love square. She chose the guy I have been rooting for since day 1.
I'm so happy. I already have the third book and starting it today. I need to know how this ends. Will Astrea die because of all the darkness that she has to cleanse? I hope not. Need the next book like a heroine addict needs their next score.
October 17, 2018
3.5 stars rounded down.
I'm normally a stickler for reading series in order; however, I couldn't find book one, Justice Buried, easily available anywhere. Luckily, I had no trouble slipping right into the story of Balance Broken. Despite the fact that it is clearly a continuation, it was easy to get to know the various characters and to pick up and follow the plot. I never felt confused or like I was missing important information.
The typical YA fantasy/apocalypse/girl-saves-the-world plotline takes a unique twist with Thompson's emphasis on the Zodiac and the stars. I must admit, though, that I'm thoroughly done with the YA love triangle that seems so inevitable these days. Our main character of Astrea is torn between the obvious, destined choice of Lexan and bad boy Stian, regardless of the fact that it's obvious that Stian's feelings are superficial. I was relieved that this didn't drag out into further books in the series. Kudos for resolving this early in the series, even if I disliked that it was there to begin with.
Discounting the triangle, this is an interesting tale. The writing is smooth, with only a few typos to disrupt the flow, and the characters are solid and consistent. The middle drags a bit as Astrea (and Lexan, to an extant) put up with the current villain Hadeon's antics way too long. It felt as though she should have been more mature and capable of dealing with Hadeon's manipulation, and instead she cycles through self-abuse and dark thoughts for too long. Once she breaks the cycle, though, the story picks up again to a pretty satisfying conclusion. With the city of Tartarus saved and cleansed, the reader gets the pleasure of seeing a major goal accomplished, even while the next task hangs ominously in the distance.
Overall, although this story falls into some of the more obvious YA tropes, it still has a unique turn on the genre that makes it worth a second look.
[I received this book for free through First Reads and was not required to write a positive or any other type of review. All opinions stated herein are solely my own.]
I'm normally a stickler for reading series in order; however, I couldn't find book one, Justice Buried, easily available anywhere. Luckily, I had no trouble slipping right into the story of Balance Broken. Despite the fact that it is clearly a continuation, it was easy to get to know the various characters and to pick up and follow the plot. I never felt confused or like I was missing important information.
The typical YA fantasy/apocalypse/girl-saves-the-world plotline takes a unique twist with Thompson's emphasis on the Zodiac and the stars. I must admit, though, that I'm thoroughly done with the YA love triangle that seems so inevitable these days. Our main character of Astrea is torn between the obvious, destined choice of Lexan and bad boy Stian, regardless of the fact that it's obvious that Stian's feelings are superficial. I was relieved that this didn't drag out into further books in the series. Kudos for resolving this early in the series, even if I disliked that it was there to begin with.
Discounting the triangle, this is an interesting tale. The writing is smooth, with only a few typos to disrupt the flow, and the characters are solid and consistent. The middle drags a bit as Astrea (and Lexan, to an extant) put up with the current villain Hadeon's antics way too long. It felt as though she should have been more mature and capable of dealing with Hadeon's manipulation, and instead she cycles through self-abuse and dark thoughts for too long. Once she breaks the cycle, though, the story picks up again to a pretty satisfying conclusion. With the city of Tartarus saved and cleansed, the reader gets the pleasure of seeing a major goal accomplished, even while the next task hangs ominously in the distance.
Overall, although this story falls into some of the more obvious YA tropes, it still has a unique turn on the genre that makes it worth a second look.
[I received this book for free through First Reads and was not required to write a positive or any other type of review. All opinions stated herein are solely my own.]
November 29, 2017
I guess, reading a YA series I should expect a love triangle. They seem to be present in every one of these dystopian sets of books...So I'm not surprised it's here, even though I don't love it. I don't get why every teenage heroine just HAS to have a bunch of love problems.
I think my biggest problem with said love triangle (square?) is that it felt really forced. Stian was never going to be her true love, I think even the characters knew that lol. But after he betrays her and lies to her, and then has another girl waiting....Astrea just seems to force the thing with Stian. It annoyed me. I was glad when it was over. Even Hade made more sense as a love interest to me.
I really liked the additions to this story...the new ability that Astrea has discovered, the expansion of the prophecies and the entrance of Elysium into the story. I like that Astrea is flawed, accidentally killing people and whatnot. I DIDN'T like the way Lexan was "broken"...he waits and waits for her, it doesn't seem to fit when he yells at her. I dunno.
And I don't get why it's been hinted that we don't know who the third girl is. It's Zarea...it wasn't even hinted in previous books...it was announced. Was it Stian's story? I dunno...but we KNOW it's Zarea, but now the story seems to be setting it up for a big reveal? It was weird and annoyed me.
I think this series though, I really do. I'm glad the love triangle is over...and I'm curious to see what comes next.
I kinda wish there was a map though. They seem to have covered a LOT of area in the last book. I think Tartarus is in Vegas...where are Asphodel and Elysium?
I think my biggest problem with said love triangle (square?) is that it felt really forced. Stian was never going to be her true love, I think even the characters knew that lol. But after he betrays her and lies to her, and then has another girl waiting....Astrea just seems to force the thing with Stian. It annoyed me. I was glad when it was over. Even Hade made more sense as a love interest to me.
I really liked the additions to this story...the new ability that Astrea has discovered, the expansion of the prophecies and the entrance of Elysium into the story. I like that Astrea is flawed, accidentally killing people and whatnot. I DIDN'T like the way Lexan was "broken"...he waits and waits for her, it doesn't seem to fit when he yells at her. I dunno.
And I don't get why it's been hinted that we don't know who the third girl is. It's Zarea...it wasn't even hinted in previous books...it was announced. Was it Stian's story? I dunno...but we KNOW it's Zarea, but now the story seems to be setting it up for a big reveal? It was weird and annoyed me.
I think this series though, I really do. I'm glad the love triangle is over...and I'm curious to see what comes next.
I kinda wish there was a map though. They seem to have covered a LOT of area in the last book. I think Tartarus is in Vegas...where are Asphodel and Elysium?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2017
Can't put it down unless I have to.
I have never read this type of books before but I am so glad I did. Once you start you want to keep reading and when you have to lay it down it stays on your mind. Heading to book 3. You will enjoy this series
I have never read this type of books before but I am so glad I did. Once you start you want to keep reading and when you have to lay it down it stays on your mind. Heading to book 3. You will enjoy this series
June 18, 2017
really enjoyed this! I just want Trea to be happy!! its taking so long but its such a rollercoaster of a book, reading the next one now
September 12, 2015
ARC kindly provided by Hilary Thompson in exchange for an honest review.
Review
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
Review
You won't regret picking up 'Balance Broken'; neither will you regret picking up the first book, 'Justice Buried' - if you haven't...DO SO!
I am officially absolutely, madly, enchantingly in love with this series. Not only has 'Balance Broken' made me thirst for more, it also made me connect with the Starbright world like never before. At first, when I picked up 'Justice Buried', I thought, "Oh well, here goes nothing. Yet another book about astrology, stars, prophecies and star-crossed lovers." I can assuredly assure you, it is not. In fact, this series reminds me a lot of what the 'Divergent' series could have been and was not. When picking up 'Balance Broken', I was enthusiastic about the future of Lexan and Astrea, our main characters, yet uncertain as to where they were going ever since finishing the first book.
I seriously could not predict what lay in store for them - something I can do with almost every book - yet this made me even more excited to lay my hands on 'Balance Broken'. We see a lot of change in the lives of Astrea and Lexan. They grow, mature, learn and strive; most importantly, they change. They are one of the most dynamic characters I have met in my whole reading life.
Not only are Astrea and Lexan unique, the minor and supporting characters are also breathtakingly realistic - something you will see even more once you reach half-way through 'Balance Broken'. These characters made not only the plot more engaging and interesting, but their whole world, too.
As always, I also look to the grammatical side of the story and I must admit is was not lacking. I saw no errors, mistakes or typos - the sentences flowed like a breeze. The story is told only in Astrea's point of view, but if I have seduced you into reading the 'Starbright' series, this is all about to change in the third book. There are fictional historical bits at the beginning of every chapter that are sort of like quote from the 'Starbright' world, too, which make reading the book more engaging as we are given little glimpses into the past of Astrea's and Lexan's world.
I honestly can't wait to read ' Destiney Risen', the third in the series. Congratulations to Hilary Thompson on publishing and writing yet another beautiful novel! Can't wait for the rest!
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
October 26, 2014
Balance Broken is an exciting sequel to the Starbright series! This is the second book of the series so you must read the first book, Justice Buried. I also suggest you read the novella Lexan's Pledge after to get a glimpse of Lexan's point-of-view to events in the first book.
With Balance Broken the author jumps right in to where the story ended in the first book. Astrea (Trea), Lexan (Lex), Stian & Zarea are planning their next step in their journey. Trea is still coping with her new fire power and her role in the prophecy. She is also struggling with her feelings toward Lex and Stian. With most YA novels the love triangle is present. But with this series I really liked that Trea is trying to be independent. All her life she's been told about her role in the prophecy that will save her people. So her right to making choices was taken from her. Now that she has escaped Asphodel she finally has the opportunity to have control of her fate. But instead of focusing on choosing between Lexan & Stian she realizes the importance of finding her independence. This is a message I love seeing in young adult books. In Balance Broken we see Trea’s character grow. She realizes her role in the prophecy is important and that there are some that want to use her for evil. It is really good to see this change in Trea happen in the second book, instead of dragging into the series. Trea is a great character – she’s young so I understood her insecurities but she has really matured and is determined to help her people. I can’t wait to find out more about her in the next book!
I really like Lex but he still is a mystery. I wished Balance Broken was written in a dual POV of Trea and Lex, since both characters are part of the prophecy. Hopefully future books will be written this way.
As for Stian & Zarea they are my least favorite characters of this series. It was clear they had a history together but I hated the way they both used Trea and Lex. All four characters did use each other in ways to make each other jealous but I thought Stian and Zarea was the most hurtful. I am glad that in this book they are just supporting characters and that the story eventually focused on Trea and Lex.
The story was nonstop with action and pieces of the prophecy were revealed. I thought their adventure between the tribes gave us good insight of what happened during the “Cleanse” (which lead to Trea’s people living underground). The author’s world building reminded me of the Mad Max movies, a harsh and dangerous world. But we see there is still good people worth saving.
The Starbright series is exciting and unique. This is dystopian mixed with fantasy and science fiction elements. I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait to read the next one!
With Balance Broken the author jumps right in to where the story ended in the first book. Astrea (Trea), Lexan (Lex), Stian & Zarea are planning their next step in their journey. Trea is still coping with her new fire power and her role in the prophecy. She is also struggling with her feelings toward Lex and Stian. With most YA novels the love triangle is present. But with this series I really liked that Trea is trying to be independent. All her life she's been told about her role in the prophecy that will save her people. So her right to making choices was taken from her. Now that she has escaped Asphodel she finally has the opportunity to have control of her fate. But instead of focusing on choosing between Lexan & Stian she realizes the importance of finding her independence. This is a message I love seeing in young adult books. In Balance Broken we see Trea’s character grow. She realizes her role in the prophecy is important and that there are some that want to use her for evil. It is really good to see this change in Trea happen in the second book, instead of dragging into the series. Trea is a great character – she’s young so I understood her insecurities but she has really matured and is determined to help her people. I can’t wait to find out more about her in the next book!
I really like Lex but he still is a mystery. I wished Balance Broken was written in a dual POV of Trea and Lex, since both characters are part of the prophecy. Hopefully future books will be written this way.
As for Stian & Zarea they are my least favorite characters of this series. It was clear they had a history together but I hated the way they both used Trea and Lex. All four characters did use each other in ways to make each other jealous but I thought Stian and Zarea was the most hurtful. I am glad that in this book they are just supporting characters and that the story eventually focused on Trea and Lex.
The story was nonstop with action and pieces of the prophecy were revealed. I thought their adventure between the tribes gave us good insight of what happened during the “Cleanse” (which lead to Trea’s people living underground). The author’s world building reminded me of the Mad Max movies, a harsh and dangerous world. But we see there is still good people worth saving.
The Starbright series is exciting and unique. This is dystopian mixed with fantasy and science fiction elements. I really enjoyed reading this book and I can't wait to read the next one!
December 2, 2014
"My name is Astrea, and I am from the hidden cave city of Asphodel.
Many people have taken years, spent resources, and lost lives looking for our city, and specifically for me. They have all hoped to claim my power for their own and rescue a dying world with an ancient story.
I once thought I would disappoint them all. But here in the wilderness, I have seen the truth, however difficult and strange it may be for me to accept:
I am the StarBright Maiden of Asphodel's prophecy. The Lady of Justice.
I have with me the Scale of Balance."
At the beginning of the story we feel as though we have stepped into a contemporary romance, rather than a post-apocalyptic fantasy, complete with angst and love squares! Yet as Hilary Thompson evolves this romantic thread we realise its significance to Trea and her acceptance of the StarMaiden role. To fulfil her destiny she must find 'balance' in all areas of her life, with love as well as the justice she delivers.
Throughout this novel Trea seeks her strength and independence and this is a difficult journey for her. To achieve her goals she has moments of vulnerability, both emotionally and spiritually and finds that in these states she can be taken advantage of.
I love the fact that despite Trea's personal development Lexan is a constant in her life. We watched as their relationship developed in Justice Buried, but in Balance Broken it is still changing as they realise that being together is necessary for their powers to develop. Hilary Thompson cleverly builds an emotional tension between them and we are never sure what the outcome of their decisions will be.
Lord Hadeon, Balance Broken's newest character, contributes a chilling ingredient to the story. He is amoral, manipulative and self-absorbed. He rules Tartarus with fear and delivers his own form of justice in the Arena. Lexan and Trea plead with him to help them save Asphodel, but instead he uses Trea's powers for his own pleasure.
Hilary Thompson has taken her original story from Justice Buried and perfected it in Balance Broken, adding more romance, mythology, uncertainty and suspense. Trea is unrecognisable as the girl we met in the first installment and I am eager to see her character progression in the third book!
Many people have taken years, spent resources, and lost lives looking for our city, and specifically for me. They have all hoped to claim my power for their own and rescue a dying world with an ancient story.
I once thought I would disappoint them all. But here in the wilderness, I have seen the truth, however difficult and strange it may be for me to accept:
I am the StarBright Maiden of Asphodel's prophecy. The Lady of Justice.
I have with me the Scale of Balance."
At the beginning of the story we feel as though we have stepped into a contemporary romance, rather than a post-apocalyptic fantasy, complete with angst and love squares! Yet as Hilary Thompson evolves this romantic thread we realise its significance to Trea and her acceptance of the StarMaiden role. To fulfil her destiny she must find 'balance' in all areas of her life, with love as well as the justice she delivers.
Throughout this novel Trea seeks her strength and independence and this is a difficult journey for her. To achieve her goals she has moments of vulnerability, both emotionally and spiritually and finds that in these states she can be taken advantage of.
I love the fact that despite Trea's personal development Lexan is a constant in her life. We watched as their relationship developed in Justice Buried, but in Balance Broken it is still changing as they realise that being together is necessary for their powers to develop. Hilary Thompson cleverly builds an emotional tension between them and we are never sure what the outcome of their decisions will be.
Lord Hadeon, Balance Broken's newest character, contributes a chilling ingredient to the story. He is amoral, manipulative and self-absorbed. He rules Tartarus with fear and delivers his own form of justice in the Arena. Lexan and Trea plead with him to help them save Asphodel, but instead he uses Trea's powers for his own pleasure.
Hilary Thompson has taken her original story from Justice Buried and perfected it in Balance Broken, adding more romance, mythology, uncertainty and suspense. Trea is unrecognisable as the girl we met in the first installment and I am eager to see her character progression in the third book!
August 1, 2015
Wow, I have to say this did NOT go where I thought it would. The surprising events in Balance Broken have utterly thrown me for a loop and I'm anxious to find out what's going to happen with the star children! Astrea continues her growth as she finds her power and her strength, but she does seem to be losing more of herself along the way. Learning your true identity while leaving behind everything you've ever known is all the more complicated when you're only seventeen. Lexan is so supportive, even when he doesn't understand what needs to be done. The fact that he was able to do what he did when it came to Stian shows exactly how mature Lex really is.
As a midway point this book answers a lot of questions, but even more are asked, and you can't help but read at a rapid pace attempting to digest all the events and revelations. I hate-loved Hade just fyi. You'll have to read to find out more, but let me just say that sometimes the most beautiful are the most wrong.
It's also helpful to know that there is a novella which tells all about what happens during this journey for the citizens left in Asphodel. I kept wanting to know what the heck First Leader Kierna was up to, she certainly did seem to have planned much more than Trea or Lex ever knew.
It's not often that I find a series that opens the doors for my own existential questioning, but I'm very appreciative when it does happen. So many myths, legends, religious parables and teachings in the Starbright Series come from our own history, and you have to wonder what the world really would be like if everything came crashing down then slowly built back up again. Religion always tends to make people do crazy things, but the truth behind the myth can actually be used for good. You just have to believe in yourself and want to do right by others, rather than want to control them. If you couldn't tell I would definitely recommend reading this series, but you absolutely need to read it in order. The only book that can be read at any point is Stian's Mistake, I really don't think it spoils much of anything. Let's hand these 5 stars over with a round of applause!
***Free review copy provided in exchange for my honest opinion, not a promo tour.***
As a midway point this book answers a lot of questions, but even more are asked, and you can't help but read at a rapid pace attempting to digest all the events and revelations. I hate-loved Hade just fyi. You'll have to read to find out more, but let me just say that sometimes the most beautiful are the most wrong.
It's also helpful to know that there is a novella which tells all about what happens during this journey for the citizens left in Asphodel. I kept wanting to know what the heck First Leader Kierna was up to, she certainly did seem to have planned much more than Trea or Lex ever knew.
It's not often that I find a series that opens the doors for my own existential questioning, but I'm very appreciative when it does happen. So many myths, legends, religious parables and teachings in the Starbright Series come from our own history, and you have to wonder what the world really would be like if everything came crashing down then slowly built back up again. Religion always tends to make people do crazy things, but the truth behind the myth can actually be used for good. You just have to believe in yourself and want to do right by others, rather than want to control them. If you couldn't tell I would definitely recommend reading this series, but you absolutely need to read it in order. The only book that can be read at any point is Stian's Mistake, I really don't think it spoils much of anything. Let's hand these 5 stars over with a round of applause!
***Free review copy provided in exchange for my honest opinion, not a promo tour.***
November 5, 2014
First off let me say I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well developed and the plot was well put together. The flow of the book was great and there was never a dull moment throughout. The world we are thrown into is beautiful and full of mystery and danger.
With that said in the book we follow 2 teens. Astrea and Lexan. Both of these teens are part of something big, they are to fulfill a propercy that brings their underground world to the top and bring cities together, but not everyone wants to see that happen, or will allow them to live long enough for this to happen. Everywhere people want to use them for their power. We follow them on their journey as they escape their home and enter into the unknown world, where they learn a lot of what they thought were truth were wrong and a lot of people they trust had in fact betrayed them.
Astrea got on my nerves throughout the whole book, and since I was sent the first book as well, she got on my nerves throughout the whole series. She complains about everything. She wants to be able to make her own choices and when she gets the chance she complains about having to. She is selfish and only ever sees her side on things. She is supposed to be someone to unite and truly all she cares about is herself. The feelings for those around her are only as strong as the connections she allows to be made. Lexan is her partner, the one she is supposed to marry in the way of her people, and while she doesn’t have a choice, neither does he, and he never once complains about, he makes the most of it and tries to get to know her. Astrea can’t see past her own emotions and feelings to realize it.
This book is every complex and you have to read the first in the series to understand what is going on. We get to travel to different cities of the world and meet different tribes. We get to meet new friends along the way and new enemies. Can Astrea pull herself together and save her people?
With that said in the book we follow 2 teens. Astrea and Lexan. Both of these teens are part of something big, they are to fulfill a propercy that brings their underground world to the top and bring cities together, but not everyone wants to see that happen, or will allow them to live long enough for this to happen. Everywhere people want to use them for their power. We follow them on their journey as they escape their home and enter into the unknown world, where they learn a lot of what they thought were truth were wrong and a lot of people they trust had in fact betrayed them.
Astrea got on my nerves throughout the whole book, and since I was sent the first book as well, she got on my nerves throughout the whole series. She complains about everything. She wants to be able to make her own choices and when she gets the chance she complains about having to. She is selfish and only ever sees her side on things. She is supposed to be someone to unite and truly all she cares about is herself. The feelings for those around her are only as strong as the connections she allows to be made. Lexan is her partner, the one she is supposed to marry in the way of her people, and while she doesn’t have a choice, neither does he, and he never once complains about, he makes the most of it and tries to get to know her. Astrea can’t see past her own emotions and feelings to realize it.
This book is every complex and you have to read the first in the series to understand what is going on. We get to travel to different cities of the world and meet different tribes. We get to meet new friends along the way and new enemies. Can Astrea pull herself together and save her people?
August 1, 2016
Balance Broken picks up almost immediately after Justice Buried, and I read them back-to-back, so it was awesome to jump right back into the same environment with the same characters. We conyinue to follow the story of Astrea and Lexan who have been told that they are part of a prophecy to bring justice and balance back to a broken world. There are several new locations in this story, with new characters (as well as some of the characters from the first book), new temptations and struggles, and a battle between light and dark. This book surprised me by going a totally different direction than I thought, in a GOOD way. I never expected it to go the way it did. I think Hilary Thompson was very clever and smart in her development of this dystopian world-the histories, prophecies, myths, legends, and characters. As soon as I finished reading this story, I purchased the rest of the series that I had not yet gotten, including the novellas. I am really impressed with the storyline and the characters and how they develop throughout the series so far.
January 20, 2016
I finished this book super fast. You know when you get sucked into the story and everything else just loses it's importance?
Laundry? it can wait.
Dinner? make it yourself.
Clean? Are you crazy, it will just get dirty again tomorrow!
This is too important, I have to find out if Astrea is strong enough to save Tartarus and defeat Lord Hadeon. While simultaneously admitting to herself that she needs help and can't do it alone. And Lexan was so quiet in the last book but now he has grown up and Astrea is finally noticing! Yeah!!!!!!!
Just go read it. Please, for my piece of mind, so we can swap favoite parts and what-not.
Favorite quote: I wish beauty made me strong, or brave. But it is a useless trait.
Okay, that is from the first book Justice Buried. But just think how much better the second book is.
Laundry? it can wait.
Dinner? make it yourself.
Clean? Are you crazy, it will just get dirty again tomorrow!
This is too important, I have to find out if Astrea is strong enough to save Tartarus and defeat Lord Hadeon. While simultaneously admitting to herself that she needs help and can't do it alone. And Lexan was so quiet in the last book but now he has grown up and Astrea is finally noticing! Yeah!!!!!!!
Just go read it. Please, for my piece of mind, so we can swap favoite parts and what-not.
Favorite quote: I wish beauty made me strong, or brave. But it is a useless trait.
Okay, that is from the first book Justice Buried. But just think how much better the second book is.
July 30, 2015
In this second novel in the series, the teenager Astrea leaves the underground city of Asphodel in which she grew up with Stian, Lexan and Zarea. This story is non-stop action-packed and amazing. Trea is starting to grow up, recognising and acknowledging her powers and starting to realise that Lexan is her other half, adding balance to her life. Don't think that means this is just a love story, yes their romance progresses but she still needs to help save the city of Tartarus and defeat the manipulative, evil, despot, Lord Hadeon! A superb sequel and great addition to the series with further mythology and suspense in this drama packed dystopian adventure!
Thanks to YA Book Bound Tours for providing me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to YA Book Bound Tours for providing me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2016
This book continues the story of Astrea The Starbright Maiden of Justice.She has left her home in the underground city of Asphodel to fulfill her destiny to save her people.She struggles with her conflicting emotions for Lexan and Stian.The author creates characters that are well developed & includes creative world building.I like that Astrea is a strong and independent young woman who is trying to find her place in the world.The books cover is gorgeous and immediately drew my interest.I really enjoyed this second installment of the series and look forward to reading more in the Starbright Series.I would reccomend this book to any fan of the YA & sci-fi genres.I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 4, 2014
What a great Fantasy Read! Balance Broken is the sequel to the starbright series. Balance Broken is the second installment, the first book, which you must read first us Justice buried. Also an amazing book!
This story is non stop action and we jump right in where we were left off from the first book. A amazing crafted world and characters pull you in to this amazing journey.
Just a great read! Highly recommended!
This story is non stop action and we jump right in where we were left off from the first book. A amazing crafted world and characters pull you in to this amazing journey.
Just a great read! Highly recommended!
July 14, 2016
This was definitely better than the first book, but it's definitely lacking in some areas. I do like the unique use of Greek mythology, Astrea's character, and it's clear that there are some good ideas here. However the biggest problems with this series are pacing and lack of identity. The side characters need a huge amount of work to make them more memorable and not just window dressing.
April 13, 2016
This sequel has really blown me away...... pardon the 'controlling air' pun
Its the perfect mix of Mythology and Dystopia!
RED QUEEN meets ACIENT GREEK BELIEFS meets FUTURE DYSTOPIAN WORLD.
Literally blown away.
EXPECT.
Elemental control
romance
inner demons and more!
Its the perfect mix of Mythology and Dystopia!
RED QUEEN meets ACIENT GREEK BELIEFS meets FUTURE DYSTOPIAN WORLD.
Literally blown away.
EXPECT.
Elemental control
romance
inner demons and more!
January 19, 2015
Once into the book, I did not want to put it down.
A fun trip to another world, another time.
A fun trip to another world, another time.
January 21, 2021
I have nothing to say than I loved it. I cannot wait until the third book. Everyone should read these books.
July 31, 2015
3.5/5 stars
October 13, 2015
I loved both Justice Buried and Balance Broken! I can't wait for the next book to come out!
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