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Breaking Order #1
Breaking Order
Ambert and Calista Knight live in a world where the arts, magic, dreams, and creativity are banned. They're the son and daughter of The Regime's Head of Regulation Enforcement, and they are no stranger to the rules that surround them.
An asthmatic girl with a curious mind, Calista braces herself for a new year at Fortress Military Academy. Facing challenging academics and constant bullying, Calista's looking to make new friends, and discover more about the arts and magic that her country has banned. No stranger to trouble, Ambert walks on a thin line. After putting others before himself and gaining a criminal record, he's expected to follow The Commander's every order in his new job.
When both siblings come into contact with Dreamers- those connected to the magic, and creative in their world-they have to decide between right and wrong. They question what family is and find meaning in helping others. Will they dare to speak up for their beliefs or go back to the bland, selfish world they've known all their lives?
An asthmatic girl with a curious mind, Calista braces herself for a new year at Fortress Military Academy. Facing challenging academics and constant bullying, Calista's looking to make new friends, and discover more about the arts and magic that her country has banned. No stranger to trouble, Ambert walks on a thin line. After putting others before himself and gaining a criminal record, he's expected to follow The Commander's every order in his new job.
When both siblings come into contact with Dreamers- those connected to the magic, and creative in their world-they have to decide between right and wrong. They question what family is and find meaning in helping others. Will they dare to speak up for their beliefs or go back to the bland, selfish world they've known all their lives?
256 pages, Hardcover
First published March 23, 2018
6 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Kopf
11 books15 followersCatherine Kopf is the owner of Dream Cat Publishing, currently working hard to bring stories to life whether it be writing her own or helping edit essays and fiction and nonfiction prose. An arts advocate who loves cookie dough, she enjoys spending time with animals, going to church, exploring her new home in Central Florida, and diving into her next favorite book. Cooking and spending time with friends just make the adventures sweeter.
At nine-years-old, Catherine fell in love with whimsical writing and fun, fantasy prose with relatable friendships. She started writing from a young age, wanting to weave her active imagination and fun characters into the stories. Some of her favorite books include Percy Jackson and the Titan's Curse, Amari and the Night Brothers, The Thing About Jellyfish, and The School for Good and Evil.
Catherine hopes to create and edit stories that not only come off the page but relate on a deeper level to the people who read them.
At nine-years-old, Catherine fell in love with whimsical writing and fun, fantasy prose with relatable friendships. She started writing from a young age, wanting to weave her active imagination and fun characters into the stories. Some of her favorite books include Percy Jackson and the Titan's Curse, Amari and the Night Brothers, The Thing About Jellyfish, and The School for Good and Evil.
Catherine hopes to create and edit stories that not only come off the page but relate on a deeper level to the people who read them.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 1, 2021
Reviewing books when they're written by friends is stressful. Whenever I buy books written by people I know, part of me wants to put them on my shelf and not read them. What happens if I hate it? What if they're a horrible writer?
Fortunately that was not the case with Breaking Order. Catherine Kopf has written one of my favorite middle grade sci-fi adventures. Seriously, I already know that this book is not going to receive the attention it deserves. This book focuses on creativity and magic in a world where that's forbidden. It talks about how that stuff is at the core of who we are and should never be locked out. We all deserve to indulge in creativity because it really makes life a better place. Calista and Ambert were both such amazing characters. I had so many feels while reading their chapters. Enya was such a strong character and her scene with fire was so empowering. Honestly, everything about this book was just so heartwarming. Of course, I can't review this book without mentioning Gran. She deserves all the attention. Her spirit and rebellious nature are amazing and I love seeing old people getting the spunky rep they deserve in middle grade.
Overall, five out of five stars. This story is important. It's also gorgeous in every way.
Fortunately that was not the case with Breaking Order. Catherine Kopf has written one of my favorite middle grade sci-fi adventures. Seriously, I already know that this book is not going to receive the attention it deserves. This book focuses on creativity and magic in a world where that's forbidden. It talks about how that stuff is at the core of who we are and should never be locked out. We all deserve to indulge in creativity because it really makes life a better place. Calista and Ambert were both such amazing characters. I had so many feels while reading their chapters. Enya was such a strong character and her scene with fire was so empowering. Honestly, everything about this book was just so heartwarming. Of course, I can't review this book without mentioning Gran. She deserves all the attention. Her spirit and rebellious nature are amazing and I love seeing old people getting the spunky rep they deserve in middle grade.
Overall, five out of five stars. This story is important. It's also gorgeous in every way.
February 21, 2020
Breaking Order was a book that I was expecting to like, but not expecting to LOVE as I do! Catherine Kopf did an amazing job of making you fall for the characters. When they were hurt or sad, so was I! When they were happy or excited, so was I! This book is for a middle-grade audience, and that is for sure shown through the writing and character development. However, as an almost 30-year-old woman, I enjoyed this story just the same. It was a fun, emotional, SHOCKING story that I'm so blessed to have taken the time to read!
I love that the family prose stands so strong, and the acceptance of people that may not be of "the norm" is so prevalent. Catherine is a young author, just starting out, but this book is proof that she was meant to bring stories into our homes. If you have a younger reader, you won't regret getting this book filled with hope, magic, creativity, and love. As a mother, I highly recommend!
I love that the family prose stands so strong, and the acceptance of people that may not be of "the norm" is so prevalent. Catherine is a young author, just starting out, but this book is proof that she was meant to bring stories into our homes. If you have a younger reader, you won't regret getting this book filled with hope, magic, creativity, and love. As a mother, I highly recommend!
April 19, 2019
There is so much wrong with this book. I cannot believe it made it past an editor (sorry!)
I want to love it - because I love the heart and spirit behind the story, but the writing lets it down consistently in a way that really interrupts the story and it frustrating to read.
This shouldnt be in YA. The characters are 14 and up but read as 10 year olds (I initially thought 8, 10 is generous). The bursts of violence should have been toned down, the ages bumped down and it placed in middle grade fiction - the voice of the story would have actually worked well.
I got so frustrated with this small novella book at 3/4 through and I flipped to the back to look at the author, and it is a young girl. Of course I immediately felt kinda bad for being harsh on it. I think all power to her. She's going to be a really good writer someday, and its a good idea of a story - her heart and imagination are in the right place (Its why its not a 1 star). But, if people just encourage blindly and dont help her develop in the areas that need improvement they are cutting her short of her potential.
It was just disappointing to me - Im not sure how it got such a high rating, which is what I trusted. If you compare to something like Keeper of the Lost Cities which has adventure, authority defiance, so much magic and creativity, depth, distinct characters who develop over each book, a complex fantasy world with internal consistency - It is a middle grade fiction, but the characters seem so much older than the characters presented in this book even though they are younger. I hope the author keeps writing and dreaming and practicing and learning.
I want to love it - because I love the heart and spirit behind the story, but the writing lets it down consistently in a way that really interrupts the story and it frustrating to read.
This shouldnt be in YA. The characters are 14 and up but read as 10 year olds (I initially thought 8, 10 is generous). The bursts of violence should have been toned down, the ages bumped down and it placed in middle grade fiction - the voice of the story would have actually worked well.
I got so frustrated with this small novella book at 3/4 through and I flipped to the back to look at the author, and it is a young girl. Of course I immediately felt kinda bad for being harsh on it. I think all power to her. She's going to be a really good writer someday, and its a good idea of a story - her heart and imagination are in the right place (Its why its not a 1 star). But, if people just encourage blindly and dont help her develop in the areas that need improvement they are cutting her short of her potential.
It was just disappointing to me - Im not sure how it got such a high rating, which is what I trusted. If you compare to something like Keeper of the Lost Cities which has adventure, authority defiance, so much magic and creativity, depth, distinct characters who develop over each book, a complex fantasy world with internal consistency - It is a middle grade fiction, but the characters seem so much older than the characters presented in this book even though they are younger. I hope the author keeps writing and dreaming and practicing and learning.
May 6, 2018
The Introduction
Read that summary? That’s what got me greatly interested in reading this book as well as the gorgeous cover! All about this book screams creativity and dystopia and I so wanted to see how it was dealt with. Also, you said magic? Here I am! I must say Breaking Order delivered. How about we review it together?
The Positive Points
Let’s start with the positive sides. This story introduces us to a terrifying and very controlling dystopian reality in Fortress (that’s the city’s name. Lovely, isn’t it?) Creativity and ambition (a.k.a dreams) are outlawed and their penalty is death, no less. In other words, you mustn't stand out in a crowd nor think much for yourself. What’s better is that Calista’s own father is the Head Executioner. Now that makes for drama! Also, I’ve got to say the villain in this story is quite vile and cruel, which makes them totally my style. I didn’t think they could go to such lengths but… Yes, and it was wonderful (in a gasping, shocked-sort of way).
Their dreaming confer the Dreamers, the radicals and rebels who dare to dream and be creative, powers from the likes found in fantasy stories. How interesting is that?!
As for the writing, it is smooth and the vocabulary quite developed, which is a delight. Moreover, a few foreshadowing moments are woven into the exact words the author chooses to describe the story. It shows Catherine Kopf really thought it through and gave it the attention it deserves!
Honestly, I spent days either wanting to go back to reading this book or flipping through the pages, engrossed in the story! The reading is eased by the good writing and ongoing action and drama.
The Negative Points
As for the bad points, there simply are two. A few mistakes and typos, but nothing too troublesome. Also, there’s the issue of fighting being way too easy for the children against trained adults. I know the kids have military training, but two of them (those who don’t have offensive powers) can take down several guards without batting an eye or at least much of it? That’s the only weakness of this story.
In Conclusion:
You’re probably expecting an excellent rating for this one and you’d be right. I give it
a rating of 4.5 stars because it’s amazing but too easy for the teens’ gang. Besides that, I can assure you you’re in for an entertaining ride! The villain, the mysteries, and the sheer creativity of the story are worth it, in my opinion.
I recommend Breaking Order without hesitation and now I’m patiently waiting for the sequel, i. e. I want it. Right. Now!
…
Is it out yet?
Read that summary? That’s what got me greatly interested in reading this book as well as the gorgeous cover! All about this book screams creativity and dystopia and I so wanted to see how it was dealt with. Also, you said magic? Here I am! I must say Breaking Order delivered. How about we review it together?
The Positive Points
Let’s start with the positive sides. This story introduces us to a terrifying and very controlling dystopian reality in Fortress (that’s the city’s name. Lovely, isn’t it?) Creativity and ambition (a.k.a dreams) are outlawed and their penalty is death, no less. In other words, you mustn't stand out in a crowd nor think much for yourself. What’s better is that Calista’s own father is the Head Executioner. Now that makes for drama! Also, I’ve got to say the villain in this story is quite vile and cruel, which makes them totally my style. I didn’t think they could go to such lengths but… Yes, and it was wonderful (in a gasping, shocked-sort of way).
Their dreaming confer the Dreamers, the radicals and rebels who dare to dream and be creative, powers from the likes found in fantasy stories. How interesting is that?!
As for the writing, it is smooth and the vocabulary quite developed, which is a delight. Moreover, a few foreshadowing moments are woven into the exact words the author chooses to describe the story. It shows Catherine Kopf really thought it through and gave it the attention it deserves!
Honestly, I spent days either wanting to go back to reading this book or flipping through the pages, engrossed in the story! The reading is eased by the good writing and ongoing action and drama.
The Negative Points
As for the bad points, there simply are two. A few mistakes and typos, but nothing too troublesome. Also, there’s the issue of fighting being way too easy for the children against trained adults. I know the kids have military training, but two of them (those who don’t have offensive powers) can take down several guards without batting an eye or at least much of it? That’s the only weakness of this story.
In Conclusion:
You’re probably expecting an excellent rating for this one and you’d be right. I give it
a rating of 4.5 stars because it’s amazing but too easy for the teens’ gang. Besides that, I can assure you you’re in for an entertaining ride! The villain, the mysteries, and the sheer creativity of the story are worth it, in my opinion.
I recommend Breaking Order without hesitation and now I’m patiently waiting for the sequel, i. e. I want it. Right. Now!
…
Is it out yet?
April 30, 2018
Breaking Order is the story of a young woman full of curiosity who lives in a society where individuality and creativity are a death sentence. She makes friends with a young man who convinces her to explore the forbidden world of art and dreaming. This is a solid dystopian fantasy book that works well as a crossover between middle grade and young adult.
The plot is really good. It’s conventional in terms of dystopia, but the world is unique enough that it doesn’t feel like a copycat. There’s a lot of build up for the sequel, and Kopf plants the seeds of things to come.
One of the things I thought was great was the worldbuilding, or at least would have been great if there was more consistency in it. There are parts where the main character describes something she’s unfamiliar with , and it’s great because it demonstrates how foreign music and art are to her world. Other times, she will describe something else as what we know it to be, so the illusion is lost.
One element that had me worried when I first started reading is that Calista has red hair, which is not a problem in itself, but so many other authors will keep reminding the reader, “my character has red hair! That makes them so special!” She didn’t do that. The few times she mentioned it, it was appropriate. Kudos. Also, some of the characters were very memorable and distinct.
The reason I’m giving this book 3 stars instead of 4 is my belief that it needs some serious editing. I don’t know if it was professionally edited, but it desperately needs it. A professional edit would probably take care of my major issues with the book: inconsistency with punctuation and grammar conventions, typos, descriptions that don’t make sense, and flow. There’s some really beautiful writing in the book, but it’s often in the middle of clunkier stuff. With proper edits, Kopf’s potential as a writer could be realized.
So, would you like this book? You might like this book if you like your reading to include totalitarian governments, supernatural/super powers, dream sequences, secret government experiments, and familial love. If you’re looking for a romance, look elsewhere. Also, if you hate dream sequences, I would not recommend this book, although *spoilers* her dreams are more like visions of the future.
Final thoughts. Some of the vibes I was getting reading it included Equilibrium, Judge Dredd, The Giver, and 1984 in a middle grade style. I might post a fuller review later, but it’s late.
The plot is really good. It’s conventional in terms of dystopia, but the world is unique enough that it doesn’t feel like a copycat. There’s a lot of build up for the sequel, and Kopf plants the seeds of things to come.
One of the things I thought was great was the worldbuilding, or at least would have been great if there was more consistency in it. There are parts where the main character describes something she’s unfamiliar with , and it’s great because it demonstrates how foreign music and art are to her world. Other times, she will describe something else as what we know it to be, so the illusion is lost.
One element that had me worried when I first started reading is that Calista has red hair, which is not a problem in itself, but so many other authors will keep reminding the reader, “my character has red hair! That makes them so special!” She didn’t do that. The few times she mentioned it, it was appropriate. Kudos. Also, some of the characters were very memorable and distinct.
The reason I’m giving this book 3 stars instead of 4 is my belief that it needs some serious editing. I don’t know if it was professionally edited, but it desperately needs it. A professional edit would probably take care of my major issues with the book: inconsistency with punctuation and grammar conventions, typos, descriptions that don’t make sense, and flow. There’s some really beautiful writing in the book, but it’s often in the middle of clunkier stuff. With proper edits, Kopf’s potential as a writer could be realized.
So, would you like this book? You might like this book if you like your reading to include totalitarian governments, supernatural/super powers, dream sequences, secret government experiments, and familial love. If you’re looking for a romance, look elsewhere. Also, if you hate dream sequences, I would not recommend this book, although *spoilers* her dreams are more like visions of the future.
Final thoughts. Some of the vibes I was getting reading it included Equilibrium, Judge Dredd, The Giver, and 1984 in a middle grade style. I might post a fuller review later, but it’s late.
April 22, 2020
Breaking Order is a lovely mix of the brightness and magic of the creative arts and the dull, harsh and dystopian. The vivid and at times lyrical prose pulled me into a highly detailed world, with a varied cast of characters that was well developed, rooting for them as they explore and journey into the unknown. Catherine Kopf has crafted a wonderful Middle Grade read that anyone of all ages can enjoy.
The story centers around siblings Calista and Ambert, living under the shadow of the strict rules of The Regime. Calista has a bit of a curiosity streak, which isn’t a good thing at her school, where she struggles to make friends and is constantly bullied by the star pupils. I like how she’s positive and has her quirks and is endearing, but still has her flaws as she navigates through the changes as she has her brush with creativity. Ambert is in trouble because he’s a pacifist and not wanting to hurt others like the Regime wants to do, and is tired of how things are done, and wants to protect others, but doesn’t know how. He has his own journey, and while he’s not as optimistic as Calista, he struggles with keeping his values and I like how things go for him and his character growth. I like how both siblings have PoVs that are distinct and telling of their personality at the same time. Their bond was also fun to read through, realistic and heartwarming both during their interactions and when they think about each other. I love the rest of the cast that they interact with, as each have a developed personality, motivation and something memorable that I can grasp onto, and felt closer to the characters as the story continued on. I especially love Mai, Enya and Gran.
The prose is vivid and lyrical and is very easy to read. I absorbed the details of the cold and futuristic setting of Fortress as well as the vibrancy of the magic. I smiled at the little details that made the story that much richer, like hearing about the history of why creativity is banned. I also loved the fairly unique magic system, which is based on the creative arts, as well as the little nuances that Kopf introduces as the story goes on that made the story really magical. The plot was gripping and fast paced, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me reading to the very end. It’s mostly fun and lighthearted, with some funny moments, but doesn’t hold back on the dark and serious moments when they come up. I loved the themes of the creative arts and the role they play in and out of the story, as well as family and friendship bonds, easy enough for someone aged 8-12 to understand, yet complex enough for adult readers.
The ending is both satisfying and left me craving for more of the series. I highly recommend it for someone that’s looking for a fun magical read based on family bonds.
*I read through and worked with the author on a beta version of the book in Autumn 2019. I also read and reviewed the original publication in 2018.*
The story centers around siblings Calista and Ambert, living under the shadow of the strict rules of The Regime. Calista has a bit of a curiosity streak, which isn’t a good thing at her school, where she struggles to make friends and is constantly bullied by the star pupils. I like how she’s positive and has her quirks and is endearing, but still has her flaws as she navigates through the changes as she has her brush with creativity. Ambert is in trouble because he’s a pacifist and not wanting to hurt others like the Regime wants to do, and is tired of how things are done, and wants to protect others, but doesn’t know how. He has his own journey, and while he’s not as optimistic as Calista, he struggles with keeping his values and I like how things go for him and his character growth. I like how both siblings have PoVs that are distinct and telling of their personality at the same time. Their bond was also fun to read through, realistic and heartwarming both during their interactions and when they think about each other. I love the rest of the cast that they interact with, as each have a developed personality, motivation and something memorable that I can grasp onto, and felt closer to the characters as the story continued on. I especially love Mai, Enya and Gran.
The prose is vivid and lyrical and is very easy to read. I absorbed the details of the cold and futuristic setting of Fortress as well as the vibrancy of the magic. I smiled at the little details that made the story that much richer, like hearing about the history of why creativity is banned. I also loved the fairly unique magic system, which is based on the creative arts, as well as the little nuances that Kopf introduces as the story goes on that made the story really magical. The plot was gripping and fast paced, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me reading to the very end. It’s mostly fun and lighthearted, with some funny moments, but doesn’t hold back on the dark and serious moments when they come up. I loved the themes of the creative arts and the role they play in and out of the story, as well as family and friendship bonds, easy enough for someone aged 8-12 to understand, yet complex enough for adult readers.
The ending is both satisfying and left me craving for more of the series. I highly recommend it for someone that’s looking for a fun magical read based on family bonds.
*I read through and worked with the author on a beta version of the book in Autumn 2019. I also read and reviewed the original publication in 2018.*
April 6, 2020
This was a very captivating read and probably my favorite book this month. Now to say what I loved about Breaking Order was it was really well written. The dream realm was a beautiful place! I wish I had dreams in there. So many people broke the rules including, Calista, Ambert, Leo, and even Gran. Music was very forbidden and that would make me sad! I love playing my violin and I wouldn't want to stop because of some rules. I think this would actually be like a 7 star. :) I think everyone should read this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2021
This version of the book is no longer on sale, but the story has been rewritten, recategorized to Middle Grade instead of Young Adult, and republished with a new cover.
This book is a Young Adult Dystopian/Fantasy novel book 1.
Book Cover: 5* - Wow! Can I say that this cover is a beautiful one. With the skyscraper over head, telling me that we are either in a modern setting or a futuristic one, and a young girl over looking what she has created on a wall surrounded by paint buckets and butterflies, telling me that we may be dealing with a story about the oppression of creativity and breaking free from such rules/laws. I loved the symbolism this cover gave me and I love how well it was done and reflects the story a bit.
Summary/Tagline: 4* - When I originally read the summary and tag to this book, I was very intrigued, but I also got, right off the bat, what kind of story this is telling me. A young girl living in a strict and conservative society with rules/laws against anything and everything involving art from painting to music to films, etc. and she gets shown that side and breaks free from such shackles of "order". It pulled me in enough to want to read this.
Characters: 3* - In this book we follow only 14 year old Calista Knight, daughter of The Regime's Head Executioner. She's pretty meak, and it seems follows the rules well enough to not want her father's wrath upon her. However, I wasn't drawn to the character unfortunately. Things happen in this book rather, quickly? Yeah I'll go with that, without much reaction from Calista or time to get to know how she feels about certain things from witnessing her father execute something to her mother leaving her family to meeting a dude claiming that magic and dreams are a good thing. It feels too rushed and most of the reactions and emotions are pretty quickly glossed over so that the story can just continue. There's just no balance with character development and the story's plot, and although there is a change from submissive and obedient Calista to accepting dreams and magic are good and The Regime are bad, we don't really SEE that development, she just accepts that fact later with not much push back. There are, of course, other characters in this book, and were given a similar treatment, but with different reasons. I won't say them here in case of spoilers, however, the characters weren't bad, they just weren't as properly developed for my liking. Also, the dialogues from these characters are pretty, I'm going to say weird and awkward, and I don't mean that they are quirky, I mean the conversations just don't always fit into specific scenes. That's all.
World Building: 3* - The lore in this world wasn't a bad one, but like many dystopians, I don't really know how the world got into this state in the first place. The city we reside in is called Fortress, mostly named because of the massive wall that surrounds the city and because most of the buildings are made of stone and concrete, at least those outside of the government/military areas anyway. Also, like some dystopians that follow a "lead by a military like regime", it's strict, job based, and conservative. You're not really given a choice in what you want to do, let alone what to wear. The Regime gives you said choice in what they deem appropriate and that will serve and benefit them. We are told Calista is asthmatic, and besides being told some reason here and there to suggest she does(we don't see a consequence of her having asthma), her father signs her up for a medication that will "treat" her asthma, but comes with some serious side effects like almost sterilization, stunted height, among a couple other things, because of that she's sure that she will not be placed in marriage for baby making and is instead sure that she will be placed in execution like her father, which is what's clear he wants anyway. We also get some info about dreamers and magic, which I'm mostly getting the idea that, this world just has them compared to it not existing in ours, so I'm assuming this is more of an alternate world kind of situation. I do like some of the information given to us about dreamers and magic, but I would have liked the how's and why's of The Regime too.
Story: 3* - Like I said earlier, the story follows Calista living in Fortress under the rule of The Regime. She's told what is order and what is chaos and she goes along with it, to a point. She meets a boy named Wes, a painter, who says he's looking for his sister that was taken from him long ago after his parents were executed for being dreamers. Soon they gather a small team to find out where Wes's sister is and things happen, but the group make it to a new hideout where they plan to raise a resistance to fight back against The Regime. Did this feel rushed? Good because it was. The story is mostly a beat for beat kind of story where we go from A to B to all the way to Z in the matter of, I think a few days? It may have been a couple of weeks in the book, but it didn't feel like it was a long time to set their plans in motion. Things happened that get pushed forward and glossed over even without much set up or even time to settle in what's happened. The reactions are quick and immediately pushed aside to allow the characters to just keep progressing through the story. Not to mention that the story was largely predictable, which isn't always a bad thing, so long as there's something there to surprise me, but there was only 2 things that did, which again, was quick and pushed aside, and the characters just accept the new information without any push back. This story was just to quick for my liking, it just needs to find that balance of character development and story pacing.
Over All: 3* - All in all, it wasn't a bad read, but it wasn't gripping either. This probably would've made for a good entry point for middle grade readers to get into young adult books for the first time, but the tones and pacing was too all over the place for me. I'm not sure if the story wanted to be more whimsical or more mature. Not to mention story was too rushed without much development from the characters. Although I enjoyed the idea of dreamers and magic in a dystopian setting, it just, like many dystopian books, didn't give me time and information on how this setting and world came to be. I very much am looking forward to the new Breaking Order book, it's now middle grade with an added POV character alongside Calista, so I'm curious to see how the story is now as it has been rewritten.
This book is a Young Adult Dystopian/Fantasy novel book 1.
Book Cover: 5* - Wow! Can I say that this cover is a beautiful one. With the skyscraper over head, telling me that we are either in a modern setting or a futuristic one, and a young girl over looking what she has created on a wall surrounded by paint buckets and butterflies, telling me that we may be dealing with a story about the oppression of creativity and breaking free from such rules/laws. I loved the symbolism this cover gave me and I love how well it was done and reflects the story a bit.
Summary/Tagline: 4* - When I originally read the summary and tag to this book, I was very intrigued, but I also got, right off the bat, what kind of story this is telling me. A young girl living in a strict and conservative society with rules/laws against anything and everything involving art from painting to music to films, etc. and she gets shown that side and breaks free from such shackles of "order". It pulled me in enough to want to read this.
Characters: 3* - In this book we follow only 14 year old Calista Knight, daughter of The Regime's Head Executioner. She's pretty meak, and it seems follows the rules well enough to not want her father's wrath upon her. However, I wasn't drawn to the character unfortunately. Things happen in this book rather, quickly? Yeah I'll go with that, without much reaction from Calista or time to get to know how she feels about certain things from witnessing her father execute something to her mother leaving her family to meeting a dude claiming that magic and dreams are a good thing. It feels too rushed and most of the reactions and emotions are pretty quickly glossed over so that the story can just continue. There's just no balance with character development and the story's plot, and although there is a change from submissive and obedient Calista to accepting dreams and magic are good and The Regime are bad, we don't really SEE that development, she just accepts that fact later with not much push back. There are, of course, other characters in this book, and were given a similar treatment, but with different reasons. I won't say them here in case of spoilers, however, the characters weren't bad, they just weren't as properly developed for my liking. Also, the dialogues from these characters are pretty, I'm going to say weird and awkward, and I don't mean that they are quirky, I mean the conversations just don't always fit into specific scenes. That's all.
World Building: 3* - The lore in this world wasn't a bad one, but like many dystopians, I don't really know how the world got into this state in the first place. The city we reside in is called Fortress, mostly named because of the massive wall that surrounds the city and because most of the buildings are made of stone and concrete, at least those outside of the government/military areas anyway. Also, like some dystopians that follow a "lead by a military like regime", it's strict, job based, and conservative. You're not really given a choice in what you want to do, let alone what to wear. The Regime gives you said choice in what they deem appropriate and that will serve and benefit them. We are told Calista is asthmatic, and besides being told some reason here and there to suggest she does(we don't see a consequence of her having asthma), her father signs her up for a medication that will "treat" her asthma, but comes with some serious side effects like almost sterilization, stunted height, among a couple other things, because of that she's sure that she will not be placed in marriage for baby making and is instead sure that she will be placed in execution like her father, which is what's clear he wants anyway. We also get some info about dreamers and magic, which I'm mostly getting the idea that, this world just has them compared to it not existing in ours, so I'm assuming this is more of an alternate world kind of situation. I do like some of the information given to us about dreamers and magic, but I would have liked the how's and why's of The Regime too.
Story: 3* - Like I said earlier, the story follows Calista living in Fortress under the rule of The Regime. She's told what is order and what is chaos and she goes along with it, to a point. She meets a boy named Wes, a painter, who says he's looking for his sister that was taken from him long ago after his parents were executed for being dreamers. Soon they gather a small team to find out where Wes's sister is and things happen, but the group make it to a new hideout where they plan to raise a resistance to fight back against The Regime. Did this feel rushed? Good because it was. The story is mostly a beat for beat kind of story where we go from A to B to all the way to Z in the matter of, I think a few days? It may have been a couple of weeks in the book, but it didn't feel like it was a long time to set their plans in motion. Things happened that get pushed forward and glossed over even without much set up or even time to settle in what's happened. The reactions are quick and immediately pushed aside to allow the characters to just keep progressing through the story. Not to mention that the story was largely predictable, which isn't always a bad thing, so long as there's something there to surprise me, but there was only 2 things that did, which again, was quick and pushed aside, and the characters just accept the new information without any push back. This story was just to quick for my liking, it just needs to find that balance of character development and story pacing.
Over All: 3* - All in all, it wasn't a bad read, but it wasn't gripping either. This probably would've made for a good entry point for middle grade readers to get into young adult books for the first time, but the tones and pacing was too all over the place for me. I'm not sure if the story wanted to be more whimsical or more mature. Not to mention story was too rushed without much development from the characters. Although I enjoyed the idea of dreamers and magic in a dystopian setting, it just, like many dystopian books, didn't give me time and information on how this setting and world came to be. I very much am looking forward to the new Breaking Order book, it's now middle grade with an added POV character alongside Calista, so I'm curious to see how the story is now as it has been rewritten.
July 4, 2018
This book was such a great read and it got over so fast. I wanted to keep on reading but well good books get over very quickly.
The character in this books were well written and you couldn't stop loving them. In start Calista is shy and never speaks up because of the fear that no one will listen to her, but by the end of the book she learns how to voice her opinion and I loved it. She makes new friends and because to know that being a dreamer is not a bad thing that the Regime is just brain washing everyone. Wes is such loveable person, I can't help but just want to protect him and Ambert. Please author don't kill these two lovable people because I couldn't be able to handle it.
The story line was great and it kept me hooked. I want to read the next part because I NEED ANSWERS. And I need more of dreamers story.
If you all love reading YA Dystopian-Fantasy novel this book is for you so grab a copy from any book store.
The character in this books were well written and you couldn't stop loving them. In start Calista is shy and never speaks up because of the fear that no one will listen to her, but by the end of the book she learns how to voice her opinion and I loved it. She makes new friends and because to know that being a dreamer is not a bad thing that the Regime is just brain washing everyone. Wes is such loveable person, I can't help but just want to protect him and Ambert. Please author don't kill these two lovable people because I couldn't be able to handle it.
The story line was great and it kept me hooked. I want to read the next part because I NEED ANSWERS. And I need more of dreamers story.
If you all love reading YA Dystopian-Fantasy novel this book is for you so grab a copy from any book store.
May 3, 2018
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars. I loved the concept of a world without dreams and creativity. It's a type of future dystopia that is both horrifying and intriguing to consider.
It was a very interesting story concept, but parts of the story's execution confused me and felt rushed at times. The pacing was quite fast and I found myself having to reread parts to make sure I understood what was happening.
I feel like this book is directed more tween than YA. (My younger sibling is enjoying it.) I think It's definitely worth checking out if you enjoy other works in the dystopian/fantasy genre!
It was a very interesting story concept, but parts of the story's execution confused me and felt rushed at times. The pacing was quite fast and I found myself having to reread parts to make sure I understood what was happening.
I feel like this book is directed more tween than YA. (My younger sibling is enjoying it.) I think It's definitely worth checking out if you enjoy other works in the dystopian/fantasy genre!
June 9, 2019
This is really well done for a debut book. The writing was crisp and clean and the author knew what she was doing. I especially recommend this book to younger people, 9-12, because I think it's a very good book to read at that age.
April 17, 2018
I'll post my full thoughts about this book in a future video, but for now I'll say that this book is a fun read. It's probably best for MG or younger YA but it has some surprisingly dark moments in it for the older crowd as well. The characters are endearing, the world building is EXCELLENT and the details within it surprised me. Its one downfall is the dialouge which can feel a bit stunted and forced at times, but overall the plot and world are engaging enough to carry the book. If you're looking for a fun YA dystopian read with a GORGEOUS cover by a great indie author, this is your book.
November 19, 2018
I like it when a story makes me think in a philosophical way about a certain aspect of the world or society in addition to telling a compelling narrative. Catherine Koph’s debut novel, Breaking Order, does that in a great way.
Calista Knight is the youngest child of Hugo Knight, the strict enforcer/executioner for The Regime, a oppressive government that has banned any type of creative interests for the sake of order. At first, Calista is shy and willing to go along with the status quo so she can continue to live a safe life. Yet she’s curious about creative arts. All it takes is an encounter with Wes to open the door to a brand new world she had never even thought of. Though getting involved means putting her own life at risk, and not even family ties might help her out.
I love how Calista develops throughout the story as she slowly emerges out of her shell and discovers who she really is as she dives deeper into the world of dreams and creativity. At first, she’s seen as awkward and is okay with it to keep on living. She’s scared of creativity at first, but one thing leads to another until there’s no turning back. I love the other characters, like her brother Ambert, and new allies Wes and Enya, who all embrace their creative sides and bring some extra conflict against The Regime. I have to say, Hugo is scary from page one and it only gets worse, an effective villain.
One of the biggest draws for me is what might happen if anything creative was banned. Turns out, we have a very dark and dull place. The name of the game in the dystopian realm Fortress is order and punishment for deviating from that order is death. It’s all the little details that Koph brings to the table that make this city come to life in a terrifying way, from the propaganda, the super strict military school and the hopeless feeling of the city. It also brings a nice contrast to the world of the creative arts, which is full of color and life and light. I really love how magic is incorporated later on in the story.
The storyline was far from predictable and there were a few plot twists, especially near the end, that surprised me and made the story that much more impactful. It really takes it’s time to develop the of order vs creativity, as well as some others, which is something I appreciate. It’s fast paced with just the right amount of suspense and action for a YA Dystopian Fantasy.
This book pulled me from the start and it’s cliffhangers had me reading ‘one more chapter’ quite a bit, and since many of the chapters were on the short end, I ended up finishing the novel in one day. It’s also on the shorter end of YA novel lengths (and is on the YA edge of the YA/MG gap), but there’s a lot to digest, yet the prose is easy to read.
I’m looking forward to the rest of the series and more of Koph’s works, with Splintering Reality coming next.
Calista Knight is the youngest child of Hugo Knight, the strict enforcer/executioner for The Regime, a oppressive government that has banned any type of creative interests for the sake of order. At first, Calista is shy and willing to go along with the status quo so she can continue to live a safe life. Yet she’s curious about creative arts. All it takes is an encounter with Wes to open the door to a brand new world she had never even thought of. Though getting involved means putting her own life at risk, and not even family ties might help her out.
I love how Calista develops throughout the story as she slowly emerges out of her shell and discovers who she really is as she dives deeper into the world of dreams and creativity. At first, she’s seen as awkward and is okay with it to keep on living. She’s scared of creativity at first, but one thing leads to another until there’s no turning back. I love the other characters, like her brother Ambert, and new allies Wes and Enya, who all embrace their creative sides and bring some extra conflict against The Regime. I have to say, Hugo is scary from page one and it only gets worse, an effective villain.
One of the biggest draws for me is what might happen if anything creative was banned. Turns out, we have a very dark and dull place. The name of the game in the dystopian realm Fortress is order and punishment for deviating from that order is death. It’s all the little details that Koph brings to the table that make this city come to life in a terrifying way, from the propaganda, the super strict military school and the hopeless feeling of the city. It also brings a nice contrast to the world of the creative arts, which is full of color and life and light. I really love how magic is incorporated later on in the story.
The storyline was far from predictable and there were a few plot twists, especially near the end, that surprised me and made the story that much more impactful. It really takes it’s time to develop the of order vs creativity, as well as some others, which is something I appreciate. It’s fast paced with just the right amount of suspense and action for a YA Dystopian Fantasy.
This book pulled me from the start and it’s cliffhangers had me reading ‘one more chapter’ quite a bit, and since many of the chapters were on the short end, I ended up finishing the novel in one day. It’s also on the shorter end of YA novel lengths (and is on the YA edge of the YA/MG gap), but there’s a lot to digest, yet the prose is easy to read.
I’m looking forward to the rest of the series and more of Koph’s works, with Splintering Reality coming next.
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January 18, 2020The new edition of Breaking Order releases 04/14/2020 with Arbuckle Publishing House!
April 28, 2020
Breaking Order was an amazing middle grade read! I thought the characters where well written, the plot moved along nicely, and, in my opinion it was a nice change from the usual middle grade reads. I love the dystopian future element and the fun use of magic! There were strong family elements, as well as found family which I loved! The characters were very diverse as well, which you don't find very often! My favorite characters were some of the background ones too! Which doesn't mean I didn't love the leads, just that the background characters were written in such a way that you couldn't help but love them too! You don't want anything to happen to anyone and that makes the scenes so engaging! Also prepare to have your mouth watering by the descriptions of all the yummy food Gran makes! (I lovvvvvee Gran!!) So all that to say, I enjoyed it at the age of 23 and I know my little sisters will enjoy it too... Maybe even more so!
July 3, 2018
An awesome read from a young author! I definitely recommend this book if you enjoyed The Giver and are an advocate of the arts. Breaking Order is about a young girl trapped in a society that doesn't allow dreaming or creative expression. It follows her journey of discovering the secrets of her society and escaping the binds that restrict her mind from working freely. The book is targeted to a younger audience but some of the scenes are dark enough to rest on the line between MG and YA. Check this book out to support a new indie author!
May 7, 2018
I was given a copy of Breaking Order by the author in exchange for a review. The following is my honest opinion of the book. First, I'd like to say that this book is meant for a younger audience, although it does contain some darker elements. I don't typically read MG or young YA books but I thought the story was intriguing and there was a surprising turn that I wasn't expecting which gives this dystopian novel a unique twist.
MC Calista lives in a regimented society and is the daughter of a man who executes rebels who step out of line. (Or unfortunate souls who slip a bit on the strict standards...) She struggles with a growing curiosity that could get her killed if anyone discovered that she entertained certain ideas rather than purging them from her thoughts. Her world feels bleak and uninspired until she meets Wes, who encourages her to dream. Once she begins, there's no turning back. Her life becomes more magical, though considerably more dangerous.
In regards to world building, I found the strictness within the society to be pretty believable. A combination of fear, brainwashing, and propaganda has kept the people living according to the Regime's standards and Calista has been taught that this specific way to live is what keeps everyone safe. As a teenager, however, she has a natural curiosity that can't help but rear its head in the face of what she's been taught. She bounces back and forth, many times throughout the book, between the Regime's conditioning and what she's beginning to feel. Catherine Kopf gives a realistic sense of the internal struggle that inevitably comes when being awakened to new ideas that conflict with one's established worldview.
The idea that creativity and different ideas are a danger to the status quo isn't a new concept, but I'm not sure that I've ever read a book where it was banned to such an intense degree. Usually there's some sort of outlet so that, even if options are limited, the people don't get too restless. The Regime seems to keep things locked down pretty tightly and, while that creates the kind of environment that people eventually rebel against, it's easy to understand why the Regime has such intense rules/penalties once certain information is revealed. This was just one of the little details that gave the world a more unique but authentic feel.
Overall, I think that most of the plot was good. The sense of anxiety and fear is well presented, and you can easily feel the oppression that the characters live under. I do wish the book had been a little bit longer to expand on some of the plot points, and it would have benefited from some extra editing. Younger readers may not mind the length/pace, though, and the story is compelling. I think that Catherine Kopf has talent and, with a little more polishing, she will bring some interesting stories into the world. I look forward to seeing where this particular one goes in the next book, Splintering Reality.
MC Calista lives in a regimented society and is the daughter of a man who executes rebels who step out of line. (Or unfortunate souls who slip a bit on the strict standards...) She struggles with a growing curiosity that could get her killed if anyone discovered that she entertained certain ideas rather than purging them from her thoughts. Her world feels bleak and uninspired until she meets Wes, who encourages her to dream. Once she begins, there's no turning back. Her life becomes more magical, though considerably more dangerous.
In regards to world building, I found the strictness within the society to be pretty believable. A combination of fear, brainwashing, and propaganda has kept the people living according to the Regime's standards and Calista has been taught that this specific way to live is what keeps everyone safe. As a teenager, however, she has a natural curiosity that can't help but rear its head in the face of what she's been taught. She bounces back and forth, many times throughout the book, between the Regime's conditioning and what she's beginning to feel. Catherine Kopf gives a realistic sense of the internal struggle that inevitably comes when being awakened to new ideas that conflict with one's established worldview.
The idea that creativity and different ideas are a danger to the status quo isn't a new concept, but I'm not sure that I've ever read a book where it was banned to such an intense degree. Usually there's some sort of outlet so that, even if options are limited, the people don't get too restless. The Regime seems to keep things locked down pretty tightly and, while that creates the kind of environment that people eventually rebel against, it's easy to understand why the Regime has such intense rules/penalties once certain information is revealed. This was just one of the little details that gave the world a more unique but authentic feel.
Overall, I think that most of the plot was good. The sense of anxiety and fear is well presented, and you can easily feel the oppression that the characters live under. I do wish the book had been a little bit longer to expand on some of the plot points, and it would have benefited from some extra editing. Younger readers may not mind the length/pace, though, and the story is compelling. I think that Catherine Kopf has talent and, with a little more polishing, she will bring some interesting stories into the world. I look forward to seeing where this particular one goes in the next book, Splintering Reality.
July 23, 2018
I purchased this book because I found the cover art work and the title very intriguing. While reading I was taken on a journey into the possible dark future and I couldn’t help to have associations with Orwell’s 1984, written for young readers living in the modern society.
What a strong idea to create an imaginary world with vivid characters! I kept trying to guess where the journey would take me and there was a surprising twist that I didn’t expect.
This is not a kind of book you devour in two hours. This book makes you stop and think.
I found the message very strong in this book written for young reader by such a young promising author.
What a strong idea to create an imaginary world with vivid characters! I kept trying to guess where the journey would take me and there was a surprising twist that I didn’t expect.
This is not a kind of book you devour in two hours. This book makes you stop and think.
I found the message very strong in this book written for young reader by such a young promising author.
October 7, 2018
Breaking Order is overall a fantastic novel. If you're into dystopian fantasy, this book is absolutely for you. It's like Avatar took on an urban setting and a crap ton of more powers were introduced.
Kopf is a very creative and emotional author. She knows just where to stab her reader's hearts in order to get them wallowing in pity and pain, or where to tickle their adrenaline glands to get the reader's heart pumping.
I recommend Breaking Order to just about everyone, and throughly enjoyed it myself.
Kopf is a very creative and emotional author. She knows just where to stab her reader's hearts in order to get them wallowing in pity and pain, or where to tickle their adrenaline glands to get the reader's heart pumping.
I recommend Breaking Order to just about everyone, and throughly enjoyed it myself.
July 26, 2021
I am not going to reread this book right now, as I have read this book three times in various forms. This is the newest rebranded edition. It's gorgeous on my shelf, a bright and vivid book filled with a story that holds just as much life. This is a story of magic and creativity in a world that frowns on and imprisoned those who dare do such things. It's about fighting for creative freedom, and strips humanity down to the bare bones of who we are: creative beings.
It's a lovely middle grade story that deserves some real attention. Catherine Kopf has fought for this story, and by golly she should be getting more credit for it. It is so good and important for young readers.
It's a lovely middle grade story that deserves some real attention. Catherine Kopf has fought for this story, and by golly she should be getting more credit for it. It is so good and important for young readers.
September 5, 2019
Molto carino, decisamente un middle grade piuttosto che uno young adult, e lo si vede dal messaggio che vuole lanciare e dallo stile di scrittura, oltre che dall'età di alcuni personaggi e dal loro modo di agire e di pensare.
Si legge in pochissimo, l'inglese utilizzato è molto base, e gli spunti per una lettura coinvolgente ci sono tutti. Mi dispiace un po' per l'esecuzione, che poteva essere migliore, e per la resa di certe scene o certi concetti.
Tutto sommato, godibile.
Si legge in pochissimo, l'inglese utilizzato è molto base, e gli spunti per una lettura coinvolgente ci sono tutti. Mi dispiace un po' per l'esecuzione, che poteva essere migliore, e per la resa di certe scene o certi concetti.
Tutto sommato, godibile.
January 21, 2019
I enjoyed this book about Calista's adventure into dreaming after it had been outlawed her entire life. Creativity is illegal in her world, but she's unable to stifle something that is part of her soul even if her father is a key figure in the government. I recommend this book to fans of "The Hunger Games" or other YA dystopian series. Kopf tells a good story that left me wanting to read more about the characters.
February 6, 2024
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was a fun fast read! I think this is perfect for MG Fantasy lovers! :) I enjoyed the concept of dreaming(creativity) being perceived as bad & unacceptable. I also enjoyed that we got a split POV with Ambert and Callista.
P.S. the newest version of the cover for this book is STUNNING and I'm OBSESSED!
P.S. the newest version of the cover for this book is STUNNING and I'm OBSESSED!
May 7, 2018
Read my review @ http://agirlwhowrites.co
August 14, 2018
A nice fresh take on a world more magical that it appears.
May 21, 2019
I gave the book a 4star since I couldn't put the book down. I did notice a mishap when reading it but I enjoyed the book. I can picture myself as the girl, shes shy until she knows what she wants.
August 26, 2019
Okay, okay. It was a good first try for a debut writer, but is not the best book of distopia than I have read.
December 25, 2019
I love magic. I love music. I love art. This book has all of it rolled up into one.
I loved the background and the idea of it so much but it did fall though with the characters a bit on my end.
I can't wait to read the new version when it's time.
I loved the background and the idea of it so much but it did fall though with the characters a bit on my end.
I can't wait to read the new version when it's time.
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