Broken

Cage of Lies #3

by Susanne Valenti

Since all of her hopes were dashed, Maya is struggling to adapt to her new life. Where dreams and wishes once kept her going now there is only the burning desire for revenge. She's changing, hardening into the person she needs to be to hold it together but sometimes the cracks still show. She wants nothing more than to go back and become the person she used to be but sometimes she can't even remember who that was. Nothing will be right again until she resets the balance. Blood will pay for blood and she won't give up until the final drop has been spilled. Some say she's taking it too far, others say it isn't far enough.

Genres: Young Adult, Dystopia

ebook

First published January 31, 2016

About the author

Hey!

We are Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti, sisters and best selling co-authors of all things dark romance - fantasy and contemporary, M/F and RHs, there’s something for everyone, as long as you love characters who will break your heart, stomp on it and laugh over the pieces before putting them all back together in the end. We live in the South East of England, kinda near London but far enough out to be able to look at fields all wistfully and shit if the mood takes us. We work together from our countryside office through the week, writing down most of the madness that exists in our heads on paper, so that you can come and escape to our imaginary worlds for a little bit too. We don’t shy away from twisted cliffhangers, and love an Alpha asshole, but our leading women are of the badass, take no shit lying down variety, so it’s always a rollercoaster of a ride. We can’t wait for you to buckle up with us!

Reviews

[Poulami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on Daydreaming Books.

*I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*

I won't lie, my expectations for this series this series is going higher and higher. While I loved the first book (you can read my review of Chained here), the second book blew my mind (you can read my review of Linked here), this book was definitely a bit different but I'm glad to say it didn't dissapoint.

Broken takes place after six months after that tragedy occurred which left Maya heartbroken with no hope left at all. Only Alicia understands her pain and both of them are firm on taking revenge, it's the only thing in their mind. But when unexpected hindrances head their way and a shocking truth is revealed, what will Maya do?

Boy, the author sure knows how to execute action scenes which I immensely enjoyed. Six months have passed away since that tragedy shook everybody's life, Maya is a totally different person in this book from what she used to be. She has much hardened and her spirit is fuelled only by the thoughts of revenge. I liked the growth of all the characters. After Maya and the rest of her group hear a radio transmission, they learn that the Wardens of the city are coming to execute them and they know it's the time for a war. This book is filled with vividly descriptive action, from the preparation after they hear the transmission and the full on war, everything was executed perfectly. It sure felt a bit monotonous sometimes but it did manage to hold my attention throughout the book and I wasn't bored for even a second.

I loved Alicia as always, she’s the same sassy person I remember but that tragedy had hardened her equally as it did to Maya. There are so many characters in this book and I really felt attached to all of them and I definitely loved the diversity in this book. I specially loved Blane and Jayden's relationship but.... I'm not gonna divulge anything but I was heartbroken after what happened. Taylor, well I'm not exactly a fan of him but I didn't dislike him either, he was the only person who made Maya feel like herself and I understood Maya's conflicting emotions towards him but it was clear that they could never be what Coal and Maya was. All the characters played an equally important role in this book. And the ending... it made me super happy!! I couldn't stop smiling and I finally felt relieved, although the situation was totally against Maya but I'm perfectly satisfied with the ending. BUT I do need to know what happens next!

Overall, Broken was an excellent read, I was satisfied how the plot and the overall action was executed, I totally loved all the characters, they all had their pros and cons, none of them were perfect but they were portrayed as realistically as possible. It was fast paced and the writing was smooth and easy to read. This series is definitely one of my favourites now, I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series.

Recommend it?

Yes.

[Meghan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my third book by Susanne Valenti — the third in the Cage of Lies series. I read the first book for an ARC review, the second book I bought off Amazon, and the third book was provided by the author as an ARC for an honest review. If you haven't read the first two books, there are major spoils for them in my review. And to be fair, why would you be looking at this review if you hadn't read the first two books?!

Overall my review is quite favorable. I haven't read Valenti's short story Cut Glass, but I will at some point. Crystal has potential to be one of my favorite characters.

Broken

by Susanne Valenti
January 31, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopia
Rating:   3/5 Moose



 
Synopsis
Following the death of her boyfriend, Coal, Maya has one goal in mind: revenge. In her warped reality, only one person understands her, Coal's sister Alicia. Together they plot to head to the City and get their revenge on the Wardens and Gregory. These plans are derailed when Jayden stumbles across a radio broadcast and overhear plans of the Wardens attacking the town. The chance for revenge might be closer than Maya thinks.

Characters
 
Most of the characters are recurrent from the previous books. There are a few new red shirts in the form of townies, plus some new wardens.

Rants, Raves, and General Thoughts
Kudos on giving Blaine a love interest. I enjoyed his story line all the way through. If the book had more of his point of view, or Alicia's....

The rest of my review can be found on my website: LaFoiAveugle

[Caron · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Spoiler Warning: There might be spoilers of the previous books in this review. I'll try to make it as spoiler-free as possible but I make no promises.

Broken is the third book in the Cage of Lies series and the fourth book I've read of Susanne Valenti.

It's been 6 months since the events of Linked that left us with a major cliffhanger. Maya and Alicia are out for blood and everyone else is just trying to get by and keep the families safe.

The first few chapters of the book, I found that the planning and working up a bit slow. Of course every action scene that came after made up for it in abundance. One again, Susanne has made me talk out loud to myself and yell at the characters. I loved being reacquainted with the gang. In my own honest opinion, I felt that Maya and Alicia's need for revenge was a bit out of hand. It's all they thought about and it often got them in trouble. Crystal wasn't as bad as before and I found myself actually liking her in this book.

My feelings throughout this book were all over the place. I can barely explain it. This wasn't my favourite of the books but it sure had it's highlights. There were moments when I smiled and sighed and I was so happy that something good was happening, then of course something bad would be waiting in a few pages.

Susanne Valenti's writing style will always amaze me and I'm sure in the future I'll jump at anything that has her name on it. Besides the long planning parts, the rest of the book picked up rather well. The way she describes her scenes are as if it's happening right in front of you. Overall, great read and I can't wait to see what's next.

Actual rating 3.5

[Angela Jones-Cuéllar · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

pooled ink Reviews:

The book begins with the bleak residue of Coal’s absence but there is no time to dwell for long. Hopefully you’ve had enough time to put yourself back together between books because things take off at a run.
Several relationships change, develop, and go over seriously rocky terrain in this book and a lot of it I read with my heels down in resistance but eventually as I began to concede and give in things happened and boy now that I’ve finished the book...Wow. The ending, everyone. The ending!!!
I definitely recommend the Cage of Lies series to those of you who are seeking a little thrill, a little action, a little sci-fi, a little evil government, a little exhilaration, and a little romance in your lives.

Read my FULL review here: https://pooledink.wordpress.com/2016/...

[Michele Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very emotional installment in the series. Maya must learn to live on without Coal, which at first seems impossible but after a few weeks, her and Alicia make a vow to get revenge against Gregor for his betrayal and for taking Coal from them.

This book was awesome and nonstop like all the others! I love this series!! Definitely a must-read!

[Sheila gullick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this one

Absolutely loved this one. Full of action and sixpence. Maya is so strong. Along with the other. The death of coal really hurt her. I loved the ending such a surprise. Ready to start the next one. Great series!!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was maybe my favorite so far!! My feelings are all over the place!!

I am loving this series!! I'm so glad I found this author!! I can't put these books down and I'm flying through this series cause I just have to know what happens!!

[Viola · Rating 4 out of 5]

You will love this book! So many twists and turns and will leave you wanting more!

[Kimberly C. Winslow · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Must Read Series!

Book 3 was missing something that the others had but was still very good! I think for me it was a real turn off that the author decided to have Maya flip flop on Taylor when she had been so adamant about him only being like a brother to her. This just took away from the story and wasn't needed!
The rest was still action packed, great story line, characters you love and hate! Missed Kaloo! Usually book 3 in a series of 4 is often the worst. If this is the case then Bravo!

[Lauren Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

First things first... if your not up to date on this series, you better hurry up! Broken is Book 3 and I'm already anxious for the next.

Okay, so we all know the back story (if you've been reading these books, or my reviews) and this picks up not long after Linked leaves off. Honestly you only notice the difference in attitudes of the characters.

Revenge. That's the only think Maya can think about. It seems like the only one with the exact same thoughts is Alicia. They share a bond so strong, no one else understands (except maybe Hunter) exactly how bad they want to get the person that caused Cole's death. Now, its seems their about to get their chance.

Thanks to radio transmissions, Franklin knows that the Wardens are heading their way and preparing to fight. Maya and Alicia see this as their way to get the revenge they seek. Most of the town is leaving before the Wardens reach them. Many are staying behind to fight, possibly their last fight.

During this fight many die, but others are pushed to their limits and fly through. Relationships are found and friends are made. Then there are the mess ups and near misses. Not entirely unexpected but some of this stuff is just crazy. There was a scene that kind of reminded me of Divergent, but it was WAY better and a lot tougher to get over(for me).

I know I'm being very vague but I HAVE to! I'm trying not to give too much away while letting you know you should without a doubt read it. Back to the book...

Maya and Taylor become even closer than before. Without Coal there, Maya is lost and looking for something to fill that place in her heart. Taylor is the only one around she 'feels herself' around. If you ask me she is just really missing Coal, and doesn't know how to go on without him. Anyway... Maya is still completely focused on getting revenge. And while they are escaping the Wardens she may have yet another chance.

Maya and Alicia have a plan. The first part works, Maya escapes the group without being noticed. But, she lets her temper get the best of her and ends up being captured. Of course, you know her attitude towards Wardens doesn't help her out any...

After making a lot of noise and getting one of the Warden to come to her cell she breaks his nose. Yup, that's my girl! Well, apparently when your really bad they put you in a cell with a crazy killer. Nobody has made it through the night with him. Nobody that it except for Maya, maybe.

The book ends when they recognize each other.

Before you ask, No, I'm not giving it away! But let me tell ya, I cried like a baby and was a little upset for a while too. My hubby even threated to make me stop reading if that's how I'm gonna act when I finish a book. That was probably the first time he has seen me cry at the end, instead of all throughout. The point of that was this, these characters are REAL! They become a part of your life, and each day you wake up wondering how they are and what their doing. Or at least I do anyway ;)

I received a complimentary copy of this book via the author, Susanne Valenti, in exchange for an honest review. This woman is a pure genius, and I'm so thankful to be allowed to review her works!

[Des Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not going to lie. I was REALLY scared starting this book. The end of the second one was a humdinger of a cliffhanger and I didn’t know if I would be able to come back from it.

I don’t want to spoil the book but there’s something that I was hoping for so hard all through this book but I was scared to get my hopes up. And I’m so glad to say that it was all worth it in the end. :)

I love all of Valenti’s books because they’re packed with action and suspense. This one like her novella Cut Glass was a little different. They are both more on the emotional side along with all the suspense so it’s like you’re on an emotional roller coaster with the charaters. And I don’t mean just one or two characters… like all of them. You become attached to each one.

Another thing I love about the characters in the Cage of Lies series is that all of the characters form a family. If you are into the Fast & Furious movies I think you will really enjoy these books. It’s a group of young adults, and maybe a few who are in their twenties, who have a strong bond and fight together like a family. It’s got some “Ride or die” undertones. I love it.

The two main things I loved about this book…

1) The ending as I have already stated. It hits you right in the heart. I can’t give anymore away than that.

2) Lee. I love me some Lee. His character cracks me up. He’s so rough around the edges but also has a big heart. I know he and Hunter are kind of similar because they’re both “alpha males” but Lee is way more lovable and aggravating at the same time. I was scared after the second book that we wouldn’t see him again. It made me sad to think that was all the Lee I was going to get. He is one of my favorite characters in the books. Almost like the Magnus Bane of the Cage of Lies.

One new thing that I can’t wait to see how it turns out in the next book is Maya and Taylor’s relationship. In this book, they have been testing some dangerous, tumultuous waters. Poor Taylor is all I can say. I know Maya has been all over the place and doesn’t know up from down anymore but give the guy a break! Someone is going to have their heart broken… and I don’t just mean floozy, love-starved Crystal. (Even though she seems like she’s been beat with the proverbial wet rope of teen love in this book too.)

In the end, they finally get close to the city but not quite there at the same time. And unfortunately, they have lost many comrades, several of the gang are severely injured, and they have not caught their enemy yet. I need to know what happens from here!

I give this books 4.5/5 stars. If you have not started the Cage of Lies series yet the first book is Chained. Go buy it now.

[Jaslyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book started rather slowly which I think was needed given how the last one had finished. It gave me as the reader an opportunity to really get a handle on how the loss of Coal had affected Maya and Alicia, and their resulting desire for revenge. They are presented the opportunity when they find out the Wardens are on their way to attack and destroy them, and Gregor is with them. Totally convenient, but plausible, Harbour City would likely want to strike back and destroy anyone who dares attack the City.

Once the action starts though, it is full on vivid detail which is one of the things I really enjoy with Valenti's books; she does really great fight and flight scenes. The last fight scene when Maya is stuck in a jail cell and has to fight for her life. [Note: if you haven't read this book, stop reading here and skip to the next paragraph.] Oh my gosh you know I was hoping and praying that the book would end this way, but then also thinking I might be disappointed because of the sudden almost love interest with Taylor (I can see a love triangle coming now), but yes, thank god it is him! You know who I'm talking about...

A couple of things I didn't like in this book, Maya dislocated her shoulder and was still able to carry on as usual with only a few grunts of pain and some incidents of searing agony, but that doesn't stop her doing anything. I would have liked to have seen her struggle a bit more, and have to find one armed ways of doing things. Hers and Alicia's persistence to try and get themselves killed by getting revenge is another thing that bugged me. At one point I think it was Taylor who asked if she cared about them and how they would cope if she died, and I was like yes, finally someone with some sense! Maya felt guilty for half a second and then went back to the revenge plan. I've not lost a loved one before so I can't really relate to this gungho attitude but I could relate to Taylor in that moment. So that attitude problem frustrated me a bit, but at the same time it's also kinda the whole point of this story.

Overall another enjoyable book in the Cage of Lies series, now I just have to wait until the next one comes out! If you haven't read the other two books yet, I'd definitely recommend you do before starting on this one so you understand the whole backstory.

*A copy of this book was provided for an honest review*

[Marian Thorpe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Broken is the third book in Susanne Valenti's dystopian Cage of Lies series. Packed with action, the book continues the story of Maya and Taylor in the world beyond The Wall as the battle for independence and freedom intensifies.

Over the series Valenti has found a better balance for the intersecting stories of Maya and Taylor and their new compatriots. The characters have developed and their motivations, strengths and weaknesses are clearer than in the first book. The writing is competent and the action nearly non-stop; there is little time for contemplation or explanation in Maya's world. As a dystopian action-adventure story, it delivers all the right goods. I found the plot a little predictable – no spoilers, but I'd worked out the end by about half way through.

In my review of Chained I commented that I felt the world-building was insufficient. While more background has been given over the series, I still find myself unclear as to where some of the items these people have access to – coffee, especially– actually come from. But that is a feature common to more than one dystopian novel or series I have read, and actually doesn't diminish the action unless the reader allows it to.

Overall, 4 stars for Broken. Cage of Lies is an action-rich series that will appeal to many readers of young-adult dystopias looking for entertainment and the challenge of wondering what they would do in the same situations.

Review by Goodreads author Marian Thorpe Empire's Daughter


The author provided me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Neelam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a free arc given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review and does not affect my opinion of it.

This book definitely felt more put-together than Linked. After the dramatic ending, it was interesting to see Maya try and put herself back together. Honestly, I’ve liked her more in this book than the previous two put together.

From beginning to end, the story was action-packed and moved quickly. It wasn’t too over the top, but it wasn’t so sparse that the story dragged. There was a good balance.

Taylor was somehow worse in this book than in Linked. Every time Maya held back from punching him, I was silently willing her to just do it.

Particularly in the latter half of the book, you can really see the direction the series is taking. Yeah, we’ve known since Chained that Maya’s parents are being held captive within the city but it’s only now that we’re seeing any progress towards that goal.

I was so, so, so glad to see more of Blane and Jayden too. Like, so glad. I really love those two.

I really enjoyed this installment and the ending, while a bit predictable, makes me look forward to the next.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book continues Maya's endeavour to free her parents and - to get revenge for Coal. I will not tell you more about the story than shown in the Goodreads plot description. This would spoil the fun of reading this book yourself.

With Broken, Susanne Valenti has created a compelling and cleverly elaborated third book in the Cage of Lies series. Maya and her friends/allies have to fight against old and new foes. I was drawn into the story right away - as an invisible ally. Susanne Valenti tells the story in a clever way - giving the reader the opportunity to be very close; she expertly elaborates her characters' personal growth and paints a clear picture of the situations they find themselves in. As the story proceeds you learn more about the old and new protagonists and the world they live in. There are some real surprises, finding their way nicely into your perception of the story. I had a great time reading Broken.

This is a book for you if you appreciate a pretty stubborn protagonist in an interesting combination of the science-fiction, young adult and dystopian genres. It is not hard-core science fiction.

A book and/or series to read again. Recommended!

4.2 stars

[Shelle Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pulse pounding, quick paced, action packed, adventure. This third installment in the series doesn’t disappoint. Maya and Alicia are crushed by the final events in Linked and the only thing keeping them going is the thought of revenge. To make matters worse, the City Wardens, led by a traitor, have gone on the offensive and are coming to wipe out Franklin. A snippet of overheard radio transmission gives the team enough time to set a trap, but when do things work out exactly like they are supposed to?

My only complaint about this book is that it just cannot end there. Cannot! Each book is better than the last and this is no exception. The relationships between characters have become more complex and the emotional investment in all the main characters is still very high. The vivid descriptions of the fight scenes are intense give the reader a sense of urgency and loss. This is best one yet and I am eagerly awaiting more.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Cassandra Larsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but because of certain events at the end of book 2, I really didn’t expect to enjoy this book since one of my favorite characters wasn’t in it, but read it anyway because I felt I had to read it to see how Maya was coping, and boy am I glad I did! Again, I won’t give anything away, but Ms. Valenti keeps the action high the plot full of surprises! Maya continues to grow and develop as a character, and it was exciting to see her become such a strong badass!

[Shea · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book compared to the rest in the series lacked....something.

The first 2 books kept me enthralled up all night trying to find out what happens to Maya. However this one was downright boring. Maya gets hurt, over and over. It was predictable and slow. It took all I had to finish it, and debating over whether I want to finish reading the series.

[C. McIntosh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final piece of the puzzle to Maya's story. And at last goodness prevails. No, that's all I'm going to say! I will say, however, that Valenti ensured action, twists and a touch of sadness to balance the whole story.
Thank you, Susanne for allowing me the privilege of reading the ARC.
Caroline

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

cant put these books down so far there great, story is well written and you can get a feeling for each and every character in the books.