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Breeder #2
Criminal
Following the horrors she discovered in the basement of Sanctuary and her miraculous rescue at the end of Breeder, there is no longer any doubt in Pria’s mind that the Unified World Order and their goals for humanity are wicked. But convincing the rest of the world will be another story. When it’s revealed that the files she’d stolen from Sanctuary are worthless to the rebel cause, Pria and the other Free Patriots must scramble to come up with another way to convince the rest of the criminals to rise up in open revolution before the UWO’s monsters hunt down and destroy them all. But Pria still knows so little about liberty and self-determination, and her tenuous grasp of human nature complicates her role in the rebellion as she finds herself torn between Pax, her ever-present protector, and Henri, her good-natured friend. As she works through figuring out her feelings, she becomes increasingly anxious for Pax, who displays symptoms of a disturbing ailment, even as he withdraws from Pria.
Free Patriots from outside Asylum bring with them a new plan to infiltrate the seemingly impregnable UWO machine, and Pria is once again at the center of the plan. This time, though, she must be willing to erase her identity, just as she’s beginning to figure out who she is. It’s a sacrifice she thinks she’s ready to make to take down the UWO and save the world, but she has no idea just how difficult it will be.
Free Patriots from outside Asylum bring with them a new plan to infiltrate the seemingly impregnable UWO machine, and Pria is once again at the center of the plan. This time, though, she must be willing to erase her identity, just as she’s beginning to figure out who she is. It’s a sacrifice she thinks she’s ready to make to take down the UWO and save the world, but she has no idea just how difficult it will be.
419 pages, ebook
Published August 25, 2016
9 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
K.B. Hoyle
16 books260 followersK. B. Hoyle’s love of good stories began when she stepped through a wardrobe at age six, and she never looked back. She is the multiple award-winning Young Adult author of THE GATEWAY CHRONICLES fantasy series, THE BREEDER CYCLE dystopian series, The Fairytale Collection, and more.
In addition to her many novels, K. B. Hoyle is the co-founder and CEO of Owl's Nest Publishers, an independent press specializing in books that capture the imagination of adolescents. She is also a sought-after voice in the areas of storytelling and culture, and she has contributed articles and essays to a variety of publications. Her speaking resume includes keynote addresses, leading writing workshops, and international experience as a featured panelist at the 2013 Sydney Writers' Festival.
K. B. Hoyle stays busy at her home in Wisconsin on a winding creek with her husband, their four sons, and the variety of wildlife that frequent their land.
For more information on K. B. Hoyle, visit her website at kbhoyle.com or find her around social media at @kbhoyle.author on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Email her at author@kbhoyle.com.
In addition to her many novels, K. B. Hoyle is the co-founder and CEO of Owl's Nest Publishers, an independent press specializing in books that capture the imagination of adolescents. She is also a sought-after voice in the areas of storytelling and culture, and she has contributed articles and essays to a variety of publications. Her speaking resume includes keynote addresses, leading writing workshops, and international experience as a featured panelist at the 2013 Sydney Writers' Festival.
K. B. Hoyle stays busy at her home in Wisconsin on a winding creek with her husband, their four sons, and the variety of wildlife that frequent their land.
For more information on K. B. Hoyle, visit her website at kbhoyle.com or find her around social media at @kbhoyle.author on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Email her at author@kbhoyle.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 8, 2024
I read this second installment in less than 24 hours with my family making fun of my gasps and intensity of reactions. It was just so good! The character development in this book was incredible and while I guessed a few moments, the plot twists had me completely hooked.
So many trilogies for teens have a good start and conclusion, but the middle book is kind of just “fluff” put there to sell more books. That is not the case at all with this series. This middle book developed and revealed secrets from the first while still setting things up for what I can only assume with be an epic finale. This book had several really intense moments, and yet I found myself laughing out loud too. Plus there are some characters and situations that really pulled at my heartstrings.
Yes, I immediately read the first chapter of book 3 when I finished and yes, I will be reading as much of book 3 as possible today.
So many trilogies for teens have a good start and conclusion, but the middle book is kind of just “fluff” put there to sell more books. That is not the case at all with this series. This middle book developed and revealed secrets from the first while still setting things up for what I can only assume with be an epic finale. This book had several really intense moments, and yet I found myself laughing out loud too. Plus there are some characters and situations that really pulled at my heartstrings.
Yes, I immediately read the first chapter of book 3 when I finished and yes, I will be reading as much of book 3 as possible today.
August 1, 2024
Whew! All I can say is that I'm so glad I can read book 3 right away!
.
This most definitely did not suffer from "middle book syndrome."
.
So much great plot and character development; I can't wait to find out how it all ends.
.
This most definitely did not suffer from "middle book syndrome."
.
So much great plot and character development; I can't wait to find out how it all ends.
June 4, 2025
I couldn't put this one down! Action-packed but still with great character and plot development. I enjoyed picking up clues and developing theories but still being caught off guard by a few twists. So excited to see how it ends!
May 4, 2017
K.B. Hoyle has written another great book. I did feel like she was trying too hard to drive a particular "clue" home with readers. It would probably be a good idea to re-read Breeder before picking up Criminal. I had a hard time remembering some of the details. Overall it is an enjoyable read and I can't wait until Clone comes out. Read my full review at Girl Who Reads
July 20, 2016
Almost speechless! another fantastic installment in brilliant dystopian\post book, The Breeders Cycle Series by K.B. Hoyle.....looking forward to more.
What an inspired twist at the very end!!
What an inspired twist at the very end!!
February 15, 2025
Ahhh!!! So exciting and so fun to read! Couldn’t put this down and finished in one day. So thankful I can move right on to #3 and then the prequel. Fantastic dystopian series as good or better than the more well known ones!
June 5, 2025
Loved it. An exciting, romantic page turner. I rode extra on my exercise bike just so I could keep reading....
May 15, 2025
This book was excellent. I could not put it down, and when I did, I often found myself wondering what would happen next or about a character.
I just wish it had ended about 1 page earlier so it wasn’t a cliff-hanger. Still one of my favorite books.
I just wish it had ended about 1 page earlier so it wasn’t a cliff-hanger. Still one of my favorite books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2016
Once upon a time, there was an avid reader named Angela. Angela loved reading so much, but, shockingly, did not know that this wonderful community of book bloggers and vloggers existed. Imagine her glee when she could start connecting with people that shared the same passion for the written word as she did! As fellow bloggers or vloggers who have ever received a product for review, I know that you all will know the joy that comes with that first package or hitting the download button for the very first time. Breeder by KB Hoyle was the first book I was asked to review and it will always hold a special place on my bookshelf. Not only was it the first book I reviewed after joining the literary community, but it was also a great book. (Note: See my Goodreads review for more information.)
When I was asked to review the second book in this series, I almost jumped out of my chair. In fact, if I would not have been holding an extremely precious chocolate chip cookie, I would have. Needless to say the excitement was real. I rushed to download Criminal and began rapidly flicking the pages…it’s a digital world, people! However, the more I read, the more I realized something just wasn’t right. That’s right everyone. Criminal fell victim to the dreaded the second book syndrome! (See my review on the Inquisition to explore the horrors of this tragedy.)
It seemed like I had a problem connecting with the book from the beginning. As readers, how many books do you read in a year? Let alone almost two, which was the amount of time that passed between me reading the first and second books. I know my own answer: hella! I think my Goodreads count for 2015 alone was 153. When I go to pick up a sequel, I relish slight recap that authors include in the first few chapters. Some of you might find this tedious, I find it necessary. I may remember huge plot points, but, to be honest, 50-75% of the book has slipped my mind in 2 years. Criminal had no recap, which had me scratching my head until about page 40. When I started to recall what happened in Breeder, I realized that the character development in Criminal was sorely lacking. Something I really appreciated about the first book was the gradual, realistic growth of the characters, but in this book, there was none. The characters stayed the same. The plot seemed like it was stuck at the bottom of a hill and couldn’t work up enough momentum to gain ground, which made the novel drag in the middle. Honestly, I did not truly become invested in Criminal until the last few chapters. Curse you, cliffhangers!
While I was not the biggest fan of Criminal, I am still eagerly anticipating the final installment of this trilogy and sincerely hope that the series can bounce back!
When I was asked to review the second book in this series, I almost jumped out of my chair. In fact, if I would not have been holding an extremely precious chocolate chip cookie, I would have. Needless to say the excitement was real. I rushed to download Criminal and began rapidly flicking the pages…it’s a digital world, people! However, the more I read, the more I realized something just wasn’t right. That’s right everyone. Criminal fell victim to the dreaded the second book syndrome! (See my review on the Inquisition to explore the horrors of this tragedy.)
It seemed like I had a problem connecting with the book from the beginning. As readers, how many books do you read in a year? Let alone almost two, which was the amount of time that passed between me reading the first and second books. I know my own answer: hella! I think my Goodreads count for 2015 alone was 153. When I go to pick up a sequel, I relish slight recap that authors include in the first few chapters. Some of you might find this tedious, I find it necessary. I may remember huge plot points, but, to be honest, 50-75% of the book has slipped my mind in 2 years. Criminal had no recap, which had me scratching my head until about page 40. When I started to recall what happened in Breeder, I realized that the character development in Criminal was sorely lacking. Something I really appreciated about the first book was the gradual, realistic growth of the characters, but in this book, there was none. The characters stayed the same. The plot seemed like it was stuck at the bottom of a hill and couldn’t work up enough momentum to gain ground, which made the novel drag in the middle. Honestly, I did not truly become invested in Criminal until the last few chapters. Curse you, cliffhangers!
While I was not the biggest fan of Criminal, I am still eagerly anticipating the final installment of this trilogy and sincerely hope that the series can bounce back!
August 18, 2016
What a ride!
Full review posted at Tea in the Treetops in August 2016. Check the blog for a guest post from KB Hoyle on the 19th!
Pria has escaped the Breeder Sanctuary for the second time and is back with the Free Patriots in the Asylum Nest. She is no longer forced to give birth to 'contributions' for the Unified World Order (UWO) and is keen to help the rebels bring the regime down, but many of the Free Patriots are still reluctant to trust the newcomers. They still need to convince the various rebel groups to rise up in revolution, and once again, Pria steps up to the task.
This book takes off immediately following the cliff-hanger events at the end of Breeder. It has been almost two years since I read book one, so it took me a little while to remember what had been happening and who some of the characters were, but once things got going again, it was a fast-paced story with plenty of action. Clashes between the rebels and the UWO, including the terrifying cyborg Golems, seem to happen on every other page and I was on the edge of my seat all the way through.
Pria is still struggling with culture shock, since she knows very little about life outside the breeding facility she has grown up in. This once again leads to some embarrassing conversations, especially once she realises that there is a natural way to produce babies outside of a lab. Her growing relationships with members of the Free Patriots are adorable, since she hasn't really had many real friendships before and is working it out as she goes along. The concepts of attraction, love and grief are completely foreign to her, and this story does a wonderful job of gently exploring those topics.
While the first book was rather harrowing at times with its description of what Pria found in the basements of Sanctuary, in this second book, most of the characters are dealing with post-traumatic stress to some degree. The suffering of those within Sanctuary gives great motivation to the rebel cause, but also raises all sorts of interesting questions about not just the morality of cloning and genetic manipulation, but whether artificially produced life forms should be allowed to exist. I feel there's plenty more soul-searching to come in this series.
Once again, we're left with another cliff-hanger - I can't wait to see what comes next in book 3: Clone!
Full review posted at Tea in the Treetops in August 2016. Check the blog for a guest post from KB Hoyle on the 19th!
Pria has escaped the Breeder Sanctuary for the second time and is back with the Free Patriots in the Asylum Nest. She is no longer forced to give birth to 'contributions' for the Unified World Order (UWO) and is keen to help the rebels bring the regime down, but many of the Free Patriots are still reluctant to trust the newcomers. They still need to convince the various rebel groups to rise up in revolution, and once again, Pria steps up to the task.
This book takes off immediately following the cliff-hanger events at the end of Breeder. It has been almost two years since I read book one, so it took me a little while to remember what had been happening and who some of the characters were, but once things got going again, it was a fast-paced story with plenty of action. Clashes between the rebels and the UWO, including the terrifying cyborg Golems, seem to happen on every other page and I was on the edge of my seat all the way through.
Pria is still struggling with culture shock, since she knows very little about life outside the breeding facility she has grown up in. This once again leads to some embarrassing conversations, especially once she realises that there is a natural way to produce babies outside of a lab. Her growing relationships with members of the Free Patriots are adorable, since she hasn't really had many real friendships before and is working it out as she goes along. The concepts of attraction, love and grief are completely foreign to her, and this story does a wonderful job of gently exploring those topics.
While the first book was rather harrowing at times with its description of what Pria found in the basements of Sanctuary, in this second book, most of the characters are dealing with post-traumatic stress to some degree. The suffering of those within Sanctuary gives great motivation to the rebel cause, but also raises all sorts of interesting questions about not just the morality of cloning and genetic manipulation, but whether artificially produced life forms should be allowed to exist. I feel there's plenty more soul-searching to come in this series.
Once again, we're left with another cliff-hanger - I can't wait to see what comes next in book 3: Clone!
July 25, 2016
>Book Review – Criminal –
>This book is the second in the Breeder Cycle series and ends in a cliffhanger. I never read the first book in the series, but there are enough context clues and short reminders that the first story wasn’t necessary for me to enjoy this second book in the series. I enjoyed meeting Pria, a young girl who was brought up her whole life believing the extreme ideology of the Unified World Order. A group of rebels liberate her and the second story takes up as Pria is learning about the rebel way of life and how horrible the UWO is. Her naiveté is a source of humor in this dystopian world.
>There is a huge question mark is the character of Pax. He saved Pria from book one, yet no one but Pria really trusts him. He has appointed himself Pria’s protector and saves her life all over the place. This story has truly unique characters and a lot of action. The descriptions of the rebel surroundings, food, and clothing are rich in detail. When a small group goes back into UWO lands, the descriptions using color and sound are incredible.
>This story will appeal to male and female young and older adults alike. I am giving the story 5 hearts. The cover of this book is unique, fitting in with the one of a kind story. I cannot wait for the third book to come out. I am a reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock.
>This book is the second in the Breeder Cycle series and ends in a cliffhanger. I never read the first book in the series, but there are enough context clues and short reminders that the first story wasn’t necessary for me to enjoy this second book in the series. I enjoyed meeting Pria, a young girl who was brought up her whole life believing the extreme ideology of the Unified World Order. A group of rebels liberate her and the second story takes up as Pria is learning about the rebel way of life and how horrible the UWO is. Her naiveté is a source of humor in this dystopian world.
>There is a huge question mark is the character of Pax. He saved Pria from book one, yet no one but Pria really trusts him. He has appointed himself Pria’s protector and saves her life all over the place. This story has truly unique characters and a lot of action. The descriptions of the rebel surroundings, food, and clothing are rich in detail. When a small group goes back into UWO lands, the descriptions using color and sound are incredible.
>This story will appeal to male and female young and older adults alike. I am giving the story 5 hearts. The cover of this book is unique, fitting in with the one of a kind story. I cannot wait for the third book to come out. I am a reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock.
August 12, 2016
I'm a huge K.B. Hoyle fan. Loved her Gateway Chronicles series and truly enjoyed the first book in this series, Breeder. I was given an ARC of Criminal in exhange for a fair and honest review.
Criminal picks up where Breeder left off and it is best to read Breeder first if you can. Pria is still extremely naive due to her isolated upbringing but she's learning. I didn't reread Breeder before I started Criminal, and wish I had because it took me a little while to catch back up. I love the new friendships/loyalties being formed here, the action, the danger, and the character development. The story is intriguing and I want to know the rest of the story, so I can't wait for book three, Clone!
I had an inkling where K.B. was headed with regard to Pax, but my only criticism of this book is that I hate where she ended it. I almost wish she'd added that reveal to book three rather than leaving this book hanging where she did.
Criminal picks up where Breeder left off and it is best to read Breeder first if you can. Pria is still extremely naive due to her isolated upbringing but she's learning. I didn't reread Breeder before I started Criminal, and wish I had because it took me a little while to catch back up. I love the new friendships/loyalties being formed here, the action, the danger, and the character development. The story is intriguing and I want to know the rest of the story, so I can't wait for book three, Clone!
I had an inkling where K.B. was headed with regard to Pax, but my only criticism of this book is that I hate where she ended it. I almost wish she'd added that reveal to book three rather than leaving this book hanging where she did.
July 14, 2016
I want to give this series all the stars! It is so very, very fabulous! I don't want to give too much away because there are many twists, but Pria makes some new friends, and Pax... sigh. I love their swoony awkwardness together. The ending is a real kicker and, needless to say, I need book three immediately!
July 17, 2017
In Criminal, Book 2 of her award-winning The Breeder Cycle series, K.B. Hoyle leads readers through the continuing adventures with Pria and her new found friends, members of The Freedom Fighters, a group of those who refuse the ways of the Unified World Order. Having determined that they need more information, as much had been lost of the Great Destruction of Information that occurred when the UWO took over, plans are made to send Pria from Asylum, back to her former life in the city, where she’d been kept as a Breeder for the UWO. But when she arrives, not all is as she’d expected, and once more, her friend, Pax, must help her to find reality and to assist her in her fight for survival.
The Breeder Cycle provides readers—and in particular, young adult readers—an interesting glimpse into another world. The dystopian story comes complete with intrigue, a bit of mystery, and even a potential traitor or two. But it is the interpersonal dealings that make Criminal, Book 2 of the series, so special. As Pria had grown up separated from those around her and ignorant of the ways of men and women, she is confused when she discovers her growing feelings for Pax and the physical reactions she feels when near him. Though she is surprised to learn the particulars about human intimacy, K.B. Hoyle actually impresses upon young readers the mystery that can result from the “coming together of two souls.” The subject is handled with understanding and beauty and respect, in stark contrast—and as a welcome difference—to much of what society currently offers our young people.
The Breeder Cycle provides readers—and in particular, young adult readers—an interesting glimpse into another world. The dystopian story comes complete with intrigue, a bit of mystery, and even a potential traitor or two. But it is the interpersonal dealings that make Criminal, Book 2 of the series, so special. As Pria had grown up separated from those around her and ignorant of the ways of men and women, she is confused when she discovers her growing feelings for Pax and the physical reactions she feels when near him. Though she is surprised to learn the particulars about human intimacy, K.B. Hoyle actually impresses upon young readers the mystery that can result from the “coming together of two souls.” The subject is handled with understanding and beauty and respect, in stark contrast—and as a welcome difference—to much of what society currently offers our young people.
October 20, 2016
I wanted to give this a million stars so badly because I'm such a fan of Hoyle's work. Overall this one is a 3.8 from me on the first read.
Basically, I loved it. I would definitely recommend reading it to anyone who loves this genre, and I can't wait to talk with my friend about it and discuss our theories.
This rest of this review is best read AFTER you read the book. Compare your opinions with mine afterwards. You've been warned!
-----------
Let's start with the stand out things I loved.
-One is the theme of mortality/grief. As Pria's attachments deepen, so does her capacity for being grieved. The comparison of the two poems and Pria's further reflections on grief through their words was so good. As she experiences deaths in a personal way, the words come back to her that express her inner heart, like they would for any of us. It was an insightful reflection of the very real human condition of mortality, and how we who are living must deal with mortality over and over; both others' and our own. Really moving.
-I give 10 gold stars to Hoyle for Pax & Pria's romance. Yes, please! I loved the way they are drawn together, the way they increasingly respond to one another, the way they slowly become aware of their affection for each other. I loved the thread of innocence weaving it all together. It was like they were the first man and first woman in the world; the mystery of the stirring toward one another was just so lovely. It demonstrates an innocent romance to be a thing of great beauty, which makes my heart sing. I so appreciate the substance of the love between them, too. So much "romance" in current day lit is based in obsessive infatuation or a very carnal sexual gratification. This relationship has underlying substance. It's as quirky as the two members themselves, but there are values and considerations underneath it beyond the typical "I can't stop thinking about his hotness".
-I reread Breeder beforehand, so I actually appreciated the lack of recap others have complained about. To each his own.
-The diversity of the cast was masterful. In race, in gender, in personality type, in relationships of all sorts of families and friends, in all the right ways. Hoyle's kaleidoscope of people is lovely. Even the secondary and tertiary characters aren't cardboard like you come to expect in other novels. They have backstory and motive- they're 3D too.
-On that same note, it was also refreshing to have the reversal from the typical fair/dark types between the lead couple. Great way to break the mold there.
Now for explaining the mark downs.
-The middle lagged. I'm having trouble putting my finger on why. With that being said, by the end the "story grip" really picked up.
-The "geniuses" and wise, experienced authority figures were oddly lacking, which kept getting in the way of the suspense of disbelief. This is a pet peeve of mine in several books these days, so I'll explain, but feel free to take it with a grain of salt. Maybe I'm over sensitive to it and it won't bother anyone else.
The characters emphasized to be geniuses had moments of advanced vocab, extraordinary memory, super fast synthesis of facts into conclusions, etc, but missed things they shouldn't have. Similarly with the highly experienced figures. For example, If Pria's our narrator, she should probably notice "that thing" (avoiding spoilers) about the same time we do or before. If she's spending all this time pondering Pax's behavioral/mood swings, if she keeps conveying to us his habit/tics as she notices them, if she's so analytically advanced, and she's seen this "thing" installed in the same location before elsewhere... I don't understand why the revelation is delayed til the end of the book... She should have at least speculated or noticed sooner. I feel the same way about all the doors being magically opened at the end of book one. Why does this bother none of the characters who should be highly suspicious (Pria, Pax, Holly, Luther...)? These are the very same people who say "the UWO never does anything without a motive" and "it's impossible to break into Sanctuary". The only reason I can think of is control of when the reader makes certain discoveries, but we'll have to wait to see about how that particular item resolves in book three. Another time was when Pria suggests "what if they bugged me?" and Luther blows it off. After the big discovery I was expecting P&P to get kicked out or majorly checked over, and instead a flimsy excuse (they'd be here by now) is regarded as solid and everyone disregards it. This gets me into mind games. Is this just supposed to make us feel smart for figuring it out? The odd thing is I know that Hoyle has pet peeves about teen stories that cast adults and authority figures as dum-dums, too. Is this a hidden-in-plain-sight thing that's supposed to dawn on us later? If we are supposed to notice, should it cause us to wonder about Luther? Or is it simply a plot device to help the cast stay together for now? Killing me, Smalls.
Alongside that too-detailed criticism, I want to give Hoyle her due: I loved the world building. If the universe she created weren't so consistent, those little inconsistencies wouldn't stick out. The rest of it is sooo well-made. I'll give just one example: Hoyle's attention to detail to what sorts of language/subjects/vocab the different characters would be familiar with based on their membership in the society was outstanding. Loved that. For example, the dialogue between UWO members in the Denver Commune was just fantastic. "Nonsense. He was lax [in his surveillance of my house] and should be reprimanded" Ha! It completely immerses you in their diametrically different set of values. She doesn't even bat an eye at being watched. The idea of the state's objectives completely supersede personal liberty even at an individual level. Nicely done. I could give other examples, but suffice it to say I find it well-crafted at every turn.
Basically, I loved it. I would definitely recommend reading it to anyone who loves this genre, and I can't wait to talk with my friend about it and discuss our theories. There were just a few snags keeping me from giving it full marks. K.B., you go girl. You keep doing your thing. We are blessed by your artful work, and this one just shows you continue to be a splendid author.
Basically, I loved it. I would definitely recommend reading it to anyone who loves this genre, and I can't wait to talk with my friend about it and discuss our theories.
This rest of this review is best read AFTER you read the book. Compare your opinions with mine afterwards. You've been warned!
-----------
Let's start with the stand out things I loved.
-One is the theme of mortality/grief. As Pria's attachments deepen, so does her capacity for being grieved. The comparison of the two poems and Pria's further reflections on grief through their words was so good. As she experiences deaths in a personal way, the words come back to her that express her inner heart, like they would for any of us. It was an insightful reflection of the very real human condition of mortality, and how we who are living must deal with mortality over and over; both others' and our own. Really moving.
-I give 10 gold stars to Hoyle for Pax & Pria's romance. Yes, please! I loved the way they are drawn together, the way they increasingly respond to one another, the way they slowly become aware of their affection for each other. I loved the thread of innocence weaving it all together. It was like they were the first man and first woman in the world; the mystery of the stirring toward one another was just so lovely. It demonstrates an innocent romance to be a thing of great beauty, which makes my heart sing. I so appreciate the substance of the love between them, too. So much "romance" in current day lit is based in obsessive infatuation or a very carnal sexual gratification. This relationship has underlying substance. It's as quirky as the two members themselves, but there are values and considerations underneath it beyond the typical "I can't stop thinking about his hotness".
-I reread Breeder beforehand, so I actually appreciated the lack of recap others have complained about. To each his own.
-The diversity of the cast was masterful. In race, in gender, in personality type, in relationships of all sorts of families and friends, in all the right ways. Hoyle's kaleidoscope of people is lovely. Even the secondary and tertiary characters aren't cardboard like you come to expect in other novels. They have backstory and motive- they're 3D too.
-On that same note, it was also refreshing to have the reversal from the typical fair/dark types between the lead couple. Great way to break the mold there.
Now for explaining the mark downs.
-The middle lagged. I'm having trouble putting my finger on why. With that being said, by the end the "story grip" really picked up.
-The "geniuses" and wise, experienced authority figures were oddly lacking, which kept getting in the way of the suspense of disbelief. This is a pet peeve of mine in several books these days, so I'll explain, but feel free to take it with a grain of salt. Maybe I'm over sensitive to it and it won't bother anyone else.
The characters emphasized to be geniuses had moments of advanced vocab, extraordinary memory, super fast synthesis of facts into conclusions, etc, but missed things they shouldn't have. Similarly with the highly experienced figures. For example, If Pria's our narrator, she should probably notice "that thing" (avoiding spoilers) about the same time we do or before. If she's spending all this time pondering Pax's behavioral/mood swings, if she keeps conveying to us his habit/tics as she notices them, if she's so analytically advanced, and she's seen this "thing" installed in the same location before elsewhere... I don't understand why the revelation is delayed til the end of the book... She should have at least speculated or noticed sooner. I feel the same way about all the doors being magically opened at the end of book one. Why does this bother none of the characters who should be highly suspicious (Pria, Pax, Holly, Luther...)? These are the very same people who say "the UWO never does anything without a motive" and "it's impossible to break into Sanctuary". The only reason I can think of is control of when the reader makes certain discoveries, but we'll have to wait to see about how that particular item resolves in book three. Another time was when Pria suggests "what if they bugged me?" and Luther blows it off. After the big discovery I was expecting P&P to get kicked out or majorly checked over, and instead a flimsy excuse (they'd be here by now) is regarded as solid and everyone disregards it. This gets me into mind games. Is this just supposed to make us feel smart for figuring it out? The odd thing is I know that Hoyle has pet peeves about teen stories that cast adults and authority figures as dum-dums, too. Is this a hidden-in-plain-sight thing that's supposed to dawn on us later? If we are supposed to notice, should it cause us to wonder about Luther? Or is it simply a plot device to help the cast stay together for now? Killing me, Smalls.
Alongside that too-detailed criticism, I want to give Hoyle her due: I loved the world building. If the universe she created weren't so consistent, those little inconsistencies wouldn't stick out. The rest of it is sooo well-made. I'll give just one example: Hoyle's attention to detail to what sorts of language/subjects/vocab the different characters would be familiar with based on their membership in the society was outstanding. Loved that. For example, the dialogue between UWO members in the Denver Commune was just fantastic. "Nonsense. He was lax [in his surveillance of my house] and should be reprimanded" Ha! It completely immerses you in their diametrically different set of values. She doesn't even bat an eye at being watched. The idea of the state's objectives completely supersede personal liberty even at an individual level. Nicely done. I could give other examples, but suffice it to say I find it well-crafted at every turn.
Basically, I loved it. I would definitely recommend reading it to anyone who loves this genre, and I can't wait to talk with my friend about it and discuss our theories. There were just a few snags keeping me from giving it full marks. K.B., you go girl. You keep doing your thing. We are blessed by your artful work, and this one just shows you continue to be a splendid author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2017
Criminal, Book II in the Breeder series by K.B. Hoyle, continues with the story of Pria who has escaped from the UWO (a dystopian organization bent on achieving a perfect society through selective breeding). In Book I of the series Pria learns of the abominations of the UWO and discovers she's being used to carry out their plans. As the story progresses in Criminal Pria is asked by the Free Patriots to once again infiltrate the society to garner proof of the evil being perpetrated and to convince others of the need to fight the Order to preserve humanity.
The evil tactics employed by Sanctuary are horrific. They kill all infants who are not perfect, as defined by their utopian objective. A child born with the wrong color eyes or any possible variation on the ideal is exterminated; but first, experiments are performed using their bodies and body parts. Throughout the series Pria has relied heavily on her friend and protector Pax who always seems to be there when she needs him most. As they continue to fight dangerous battles and overcome immense odds together the two develop a bond that is greater than ever before.
Author K.B. Hoyle is an incredibly gifted storyteller. Her ability to alternate seamlessly between intense action scenes and tender moments (often laced with subtle humor) is one of the many reasons this author continues to enthrall YA fans. Criminal is a powerfully gripping tale with a well-developed cast of characters, many with whom readers will feel a strong connection. Recommended for home and school libraries, this book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
The evil tactics employed by Sanctuary are horrific. They kill all infants who are not perfect, as defined by their utopian objective. A child born with the wrong color eyes or any possible variation on the ideal is exterminated; but first, experiments are performed using their bodies and body parts. Throughout the series Pria has relied heavily on her friend and protector Pax who always seems to be there when she needs him most. As they continue to fight dangerous battles and overcome immense odds together the two develop a bond that is greater than ever before.
Author K.B. Hoyle is an incredibly gifted storyteller. Her ability to alternate seamlessly between intense action scenes and tender moments (often laced with subtle humor) is one of the many reasons this author continues to enthrall YA fans. Criminal is a powerfully gripping tale with a well-developed cast of characters, many with whom readers will feel a strong connection. Recommended for home and school libraries, this book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
February 10, 2021
What happens when an author writes the second book in a trilogy? Do they get lost in their writing? Something definitely happens because there tends to be a lag in the plot and story in second books. I haven’t been able to figure out why this occurs, but unfortunately, it does. And Criminal fell victim to the second book slump.
Not to say it wasn’t as well written as the first. Grammar was spot on. Dialogue was a little lacking.
Opinions- I really wished we could see things from another characters perspective! Like, when Pria was at the Sanctuary, hack into the video surveillance and see what’s going on. Or maybe Pria waking up more often. Or while Pria is “dead” cut to another person. I appreciate “seeing” what happens when they aren’t there to see. (Does that even make sense to anyone else?)
Told y’all something was up with Pax!! I just wish he could see himself like Pria sees him. I hope she helps him overcome his insecurities.
I ready to see Pria step into Washington and change the way life is happening to the people of UWO.
Not to say it wasn’t as well written as the first. Grammar was spot on. Dialogue was a little lacking.
Opinions- I really wished we could see things from another characters perspective! Like, when Pria was at the Sanctuary, hack into the video surveillance and see what’s going on. Or maybe Pria waking up more often. Or while Pria is “dead” cut to another person. I appreciate “seeing” what happens when they aren’t there to see. (Does that even make sense to anyone else?)
Told y’all something was up with Pax!! I just wish he could see himself like Pria sees him. I hope she helps him overcome his insecurities.
I ready to see Pria step into Washington and change the way life is happening to the people of UWO.
March 29, 2022
*dramatic sigh* my expectations were low. I am still disappointed. This continues to be the most basic book I have ever read. Pria has no personality traits outside of being ✨nice✨ and 💪strong💪. She is a Mary Sue right down to her cloying core. Pax is your basic toxic boyfriend who broods and is 🥵angsty 🥵. He also lacks personality. Idk what to say on the love triangle, considering the fact it’s nonexistent. Henri pokes his head into this book and leaves immediately and I honestly don’t blame him. There is no central arc or goal. Nothing is being worked toward until the end. My one compliment is that the plot twist at the end was good. It was hinted at throughout the book and I thought it was set up well.
December 6, 2016
I do really wish there had been more background info in the beginning to recap Breeder, since I had forgotten a good bit, but once I started piecing everything back together I really enjoyed it! The plot was good and rather unpredictable! I usually see what's coming from a mile away and this book surprised me time after time. And the end? AAAH!!! Not to give away any spoilers, but how am I supposed to wait for the next book??
Highly recommend, but do reread Breeder before starting Criminal. And maybe wait until the next book comes out so you don't have to live in suspense like I do? :P
Highly recommend, but do reread Breeder before starting Criminal. And maybe wait until the next book comes out so you don't have to live in suspense like I do? :P
July 6, 2025
Very good sequel. I really liked the continuation of the story and what the author did with the plot. I also liked the characters the book introduced. One of the things about this series I think the author does a good job of is developing characters. The characters are strong, with unique personalities and you feel for them in a way many other authors can't get you to feel for their characters. Good book, can't wait for the next.
May 19, 2021
Quick review: Gripping and intriguing, this one kept me turning pages! Heavier themes of romance in this book, and several instances of Jurassic-Park-level gore. Definitely for older teens as the romance and discussion of romance generally is a bit mature.
I’m going to download the third book now and keep reading, so...yeah. I think I’m hooked.
I’m going to download the third book now and keep reading, so...yeah. I think I’m hooked.
May 29, 2017
Couldn't stop reading!
Both books of this well-written trilogy gripped me and wouldn't let go until I finished. Now I want book three! The series is way underrated. If you like young adult dystopian novels, give this series a try. You won't regret it!
Both books of this well-written trilogy gripped me and wouldn't let go until I finished. Now I want book three! The series is way underrated. If you like young adult dystopian novels, give this series a try. You won't regret it!
January 29, 2020
On first read, this one was a 3.8 for me.
On second read, 5 stars! When I can read straight through from book 1 to book 3, it’s the best bridge from beginning to end of a great series!
This rest of this review is just a discussion, best read AFTER you read the book. Compare your opinions with mine afterwards.
-----------
Let's start with the stand out things I loved.
-One is the theme of mortality/grief. As Pria's attachments deepen, so does her capacity for being grieved. The comparison of the two poems and Pria's further reflections on grief through their words was so good. As she experiences deaths in a personal way, the words come back to her that express her inner heart, like they would for any of us. It was an insightful reflection of the very real human condition of mortality, and how we who are living must deal with mortality over and over; both others' and our own. Really moving.
-I give 10 gold stars to Hoyle for Pax & Pria's romance. Yes, please! I loved the way they are drawn together, the way they increasingly respond to one another, the way they slowly become aware of their affection for each other. I loved the thread of innocence weaving it all together. It was like they were the first man and first woman in the world; the mystery of the stirring toward one another was just so lovely. It demonstrates an innocent romance to be a thing of great beauty, which makes my heart sing. I so appreciate the substance of the love between them, too. So much "romance" in current day lit is based in obsessive infatuation or a very carnal sexual gratification. This relationship has underlying substance. It's as quirky as the two members themselves, but there are values and considerations underneath it beyond the typical "I can't stop thinking about his hotness".
-I reread Breeder beforehand, so I actually appreciated the lack of recap others have complained about. To each his own.
-The diversity of the cast was masterful. In race, in gender, in personality type, in relationships of all sorts of families and friends, in all the right ways. Hoyle's kaleidoscope of people is lovely. Even the secondary and tertiary characters aren't cardboard like you come to expect in other novels. They have backstory and motive- they're 3D too.
-On that same note, it was also refreshing to have the reversal from the typical fair/dark types between the lead couple. Great way to break the mold there.
Now for explaining the mark downs.
-The middle lagged. I'm having trouble putting my finger on why. With that being said, by the end the "story grip" really picked up.
-The "geniuses" and wise, experienced authority figures were oddly lacking, which kept getting in the way of the suspense of disbelief. This is a pet peeve of mine in several books these days, so maybe I'm just over sensitive to it and it won't bother anyone else.
The characters emphasized to be geniuses had moments of advanced vocab, extraordinary memory, super fast synthesis of facts into conclusions, etc, but missed things they shouldn't have. Similarly with the highly experienced figures. For example, If Pria's our narrator, she should probably notice "that thing" (avoiding spoilers) about the same time we do or before. If she's spending all this time pondering Pax's behavioral/mood swings, if she keeps conveying to us his habit/tics as she notices them, if she's so analytically advanced, and she's seen this "thing" installed in the same location before elsewhere... I don't understand why the revelation is delayed til the end of the book... She should have at least speculated or noticed sooner. I feel the same way about all the doors being magically opened at the end of book one. Why does this bother none of the characters who should be highly suspicious (Pria, Pax, Holly, Luther...)? These are the very same people who say "the UWO never does anything without a motive" and "it's impossible to break into Sanctuary". The only reason I can think of is control of when the reader makes certain discoveries, but we'll have to wait to see about how that particular item resolves in book three.
Alongside that too-detailed criticism, I want to give Hoyle her due: If the world-building she created weren't so consistent, those little inconsistencies wouldn't stick out. The rest of it is sooo well-made. I'll give just one example: Hoyle's attention to detail to what sorts of language/subjects/vocab the different characters would be familiar with based on their membership in the society was outstanding. Loved that. For example, the dialogue between UWO members in the Denver Commune was just fantastic. "Nonsense. He was lax [in his surveillance of my house] and should be reprimanded" Ha! It completely immerses you in their diametrically different set of values. She doesn't even bat an eye at being watched. The idea of the state's objectives completely supersede personal liberty even at an individual level. Nicely done. I could give other examples, but suffice it to say I find it well-crafted at every turn.
Basically, I loved it. I would definitely recommend reading it to anyone who loves this genre, and I can't wait to talk with my friend about it and discuss our theories. There were just a few snags keeping me from giving it full marks.
On second read, 5 stars! When I can read straight through from book 1 to book 3, it’s the best bridge from beginning to end of a great series!
This rest of this review is just a discussion, best read AFTER you read the book. Compare your opinions with mine afterwards.
-----------
Let's start with the stand out things I loved.
-One is the theme of mortality/grief. As Pria's attachments deepen, so does her capacity for being grieved. The comparison of the two poems and Pria's further reflections on grief through their words was so good. As she experiences deaths in a personal way, the words come back to her that express her inner heart, like they would for any of us. It was an insightful reflection of the very real human condition of mortality, and how we who are living must deal with mortality over and over; both others' and our own. Really moving.
-I give 10 gold stars to Hoyle for Pax & Pria's romance. Yes, please! I loved the way they are drawn together, the way they increasingly respond to one another, the way they slowly become aware of their affection for each other. I loved the thread of innocence weaving it all together. It was like they were the first man and first woman in the world; the mystery of the stirring toward one another was just so lovely. It demonstrates an innocent romance to be a thing of great beauty, which makes my heart sing. I so appreciate the substance of the love between them, too. So much "romance" in current day lit is based in obsessive infatuation or a very carnal sexual gratification. This relationship has underlying substance. It's as quirky as the two members themselves, but there are values and considerations underneath it beyond the typical "I can't stop thinking about his hotness".
-I reread Breeder beforehand, so I actually appreciated the lack of recap others have complained about. To each his own.
-The diversity of the cast was masterful. In race, in gender, in personality type, in relationships of all sorts of families and friends, in all the right ways. Hoyle's kaleidoscope of people is lovely. Even the secondary and tertiary characters aren't cardboard like you come to expect in other novels. They have backstory and motive- they're 3D too.
-On that same note, it was also refreshing to have the reversal from the typical fair/dark types between the lead couple. Great way to break the mold there.
Now for explaining the mark downs.
-The middle lagged. I'm having trouble putting my finger on why. With that being said, by the end the "story grip" really picked up.
-The "geniuses" and wise, experienced authority figures were oddly lacking, which kept getting in the way of the suspense of disbelief. This is a pet peeve of mine in several books these days, so maybe I'm just over sensitive to it and it won't bother anyone else.
The characters emphasized to be geniuses had moments of advanced vocab, extraordinary memory, super fast synthesis of facts into conclusions, etc, but missed things they shouldn't have. Similarly with the highly experienced figures. For example, If Pria's our narrator, she should probably notice "that thing" (avoiding spoilers) about the same time we do or before. If she's spending all this time pondering Pax's behavioral/mood swings, if she keeps conveying to us his habit/tics as she notices them, if she's so analytically advanced, and she's seen this "thing" installed in the same location before elsewhere... I don't understand why the revelation is delayed til the end of the book... She should have at least speculated or noticed sooner. I feel the same way about all the doors being magically opened at the end of book one. Why does this bother none of the characters who should be highly suspicious (Pria, Pax, Holly, Luther...)? These are the very same people who say "the UWO never does anything without a motive" and "it's impossible to break into Sanctuary". The only reason I can think of is control of when the reader makes certain discoveries, but we'll have to wait to see about how that particular item resolves in book three.
Alongside that too-detailed criticism, I want to give Hoyle her due: If the world-building she created weren't so consistent, those little inconsistencies wouldn't stick out. The rest of it is sooo well-made. I'll give just one example: Hoyle's attention to detail to what sorts of language/subjects/vocab the different characters would be familiar with based on their membership in the society was outstanding. Loved that. For example, the dialogue between UWO members in the Denver Commune was just fantastic. "Nonsense. He was lax [in his surveillance of my house] and should be reprimanded" Ha! It completely immerses you in their diametrically different set of values. She doesn't even bat an eye at being watched. The idea of the state's objectives completely supersede personal liberty even at an individual level. Nicely done. I could give other examples, but suffice it to say I find it well-crafted at every turn.
Basically, I loved it. I would definitely recommend reading it to anyone who loves this genre, and I can't wait to talk with my friend about it and discuss our theories. There were just a few snags keeping me from giving it full marks.
October 17, 2024
Great YA dystopian. There are a handful of minor swear words and discussion of sex (the MC had grown up isolated and not knowing how humans reproduce naturally), also mention of the almost-rape that happened in the previous book. Overall appropriate for 14ish and up.
July 19, 2017
Enjoyed it, even if I knew what was coming at the end.
January 5, 2024
5.0⭐️ ahhhhhhhh i love this book so much. the foreshadowing. the tension. the mission. the plot twist. it’s gold.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 29, 2024
Solid second installment! I’m here for Pria, Pax, and the revolution in book 3,
May 1, 2025
Pria’s character development is so odd, and the pacing is once again not it. The plot twist at the end was also unsatisfying to me
August 21, 2016
read a book in December 2014 called Breeder by K.B. Hoyle and I loved it. The story of a dystopian world in which the perfect specimens of young women are selected to be breeders, producing the perfect offspring for the United World Order. The story centered on Pria, who had been a Breeder until she was rescued by a mysterious man named Pax. The pair of them found their way to a resistance nest where they set out to try and help upend what had become of the world.
I remember being very eager to read the sequel so when I was offered the chance to read the sequel, I jumped at it. And then I got very nervous. After all, it's been just four months short of two years since I read the first book and my TBR list was far too long to let me go back and re-read. I promised myself that I would if I started Criminal and felt lost.
But I was not lost.
It's a testament to K.B. Hoyle's writing that I remembered the characters, the plot, and the nuances of the story well enough to be pretty much unable to put Criminal down until I was done... done and already dreading the wait for the final part of the trilogy!
Criminal picks up exactly where the first book left off. And I am going to try and review this in a way that convinces someone to read both books without spoiling either so I apologize now for the probably over-excited, possibly confusing words that are about to follow. Read them, if you please, knowing that I loved both books, I have babbled to family and friends about how good they are, and I really think you should read them if they sound even a little bit like your sort of book.
The plot to this series reminds me of the Nazi Lebensborn programs and the quest for the perfect Aryan race. It reminds me of the science of today that is ever closer to allowing us to pick the eye color and hair color and height of our children - we can already pick genders. It reminds me of science fiction stories about science gone wrong and what the power of science in the wrong hands can do.
It reminds me of everything that really kind of terrifies me.
On the other hand, it tells the story of how a few people are willing to risk everything to stop the wrongs that they say. It's a story of bravery and determination in a bleak world. That is a story that is timeless.
K.B. Hoyle mixes all of these things together so well. The UWO is the ever-lurking antagonist, a dark shadow on the bleak world. The details on the UWO aren't always specific - save for the breeders, drugging water to make a compliant population, and science experiments that threaten everyone - but that works for the story. It works because it is how things are.
Ordinary people don't know everything their ruling government does. Conspiracy theories will always run first in the minds of some while compliance runs first in the minds of others. There is no doubt in Criminal that the resistance nest gets some things wrong. There is no doubt that they get some things right. And in the cities controlled by the UWO do contain tiny pockets of resistance while the majority go on with what they are "supposed" to do, often giving the idea that they might do it even if they weren't drugged.
It is reality in a futuristic, dystopian world because it could be reality now.
Pria and Pax, and the community and leaders of the nest, are all relatable characters in that they aren't perfect and they are able to see around the flaws that the others carry. They are well-developed in that their motivations aren't always clear until the final action when it's easy to see why they did what they did, even if you want to throttle them for being so stupid sometimes. They are also brave and selfless, as most people want to believe they would be in situations like those in this story.
I didn't know it was going to be a trilogy when I started reading Criminal but as I got further into it and saw that the plotlines that kept me reading got more involved and more intense, I knew it wasn't going to wrap up in the second book. I panicked about that a little! And then I quite literally smacked my head on my desk when I saw the excerpt and promo for the third (and final!) book in the series. I cannot wait to read it!
Important Details:
On Sale Date -- August 25, 2016 at Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and TWCS PH
I was thrilled to get the chance to read Criminal, the second book in K.B. Hoyle's Breeder series and I want to thank TWCS, Cindy Bidwell, and K.B. Hoyle for letting me read an ARC and share my thoughts in this review
I remember being very eager to read the sequel so when I was offered the chance to read the sequel, I jumped at it. And then I got very nervous. After all, it's been just four months short of two years since I read the first book and my TBR list was far too long to let me go back and re-read. I promised myself that I would if I started Criminal and felt lost.
But I was not lost.
It's a testament to K.B. Hoyle's writing that I remembered the characters, the plot, and the nuances of the story well enough to be pretty much unable to put Criminal down until I was done... done and already dreading the wait for the final part of the trilogy!
Criminal picks up exactly where the first book left off. And I am going to try and review this in a way that convinces someone to read both books without spoiling either so I apologize now for the probably over-excited, possibly confusing words that are about to follow. Read them, if you please, knowing that I loved both books, I have babbled to family and friends about how good they are, and I really think you should read them if they sound even a little bit like your sort of book.
The plot to this series reminds me of the Nazi Lebensborn programs and the quest for the perfect Aryan race. It reminds me of the science of today that is ever closer to allowing us to pick the eye color and hair color and height of our children - we can already pick genders. It reminds me of science fiction stories about science gone wrong and what the power of science in the wrong hands can do.
It reminds me of everything that really kind of terrifies me.
On the other hand, it tells the story of how a few people are willing to risk everything to stop the wrongs that they say. It's a story of bravery and determination in a bleak world. That is a story that is timeless.
K.B. Hoyle mixes all of these things together so well. The UWO is the ever-lurking antagonist, a dark shadow on the bleak world. The details on the UWO aren't always specific - save for the breeders, drugging water to make a compliant population, and science experiments that threaten everyone - but that works for the story. It works because it is how things are.
Ordinary people don't know everything their ruling government does. Conspiracy theories will always run first in the minds of some while compliance runs first in the minds of others. There is no doubt in Criminal that the resistance nest gets some things wrong. There is no doubt that they get some things right. And in the cities controlled by the UWO do contain tiny pockets of resistance while the majority go on with what they are "supposed" to do, often giving the idea that they might do it even if they weren't drugged.
It is reality in a futuristic, dystopian world because it could be reality now.
Pria and Pax, and the community and leaders of the nest, are all relatable characters in that they aren't perfect and they are able to see around the flaws that the others carry. They are well-developed in that their motivations aren't always clear until the final action when it's easy to see why they did what they did, even if you want to throttle them for being so stupid sometimes. They are also brave and selfless, as most people want to believe they would be in situations like those in this story.
I didn't know it was going to be a trilogy when I started reading Criminal but as I got further into it and saw that the plotlines that kept me reading got more involved and more intense, I knew it wasn't going to wrap up in the second book. I panicked about that a little! And then I quite literally smacked my head on my desk when I saw the excerpt and promo for the third (and final!) book in the series. I cannot wait to read it!
Important Details:
On Sale Date -- August 25, 2016 at Amazon, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and TWCS PH
I was thrilled to get the chance to read Criminal, the second book in K.B. Hoyle's Breeder series and I want to thank TWCS, Cindy Bidwell, and K.B. Hoyle for letting me read an ARC and share my thoughts in this review
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