What do you think?
Rate this book
World of Combat Dystopia #2
Combat Mind
Will an assassination plot destroy her dream?
Ever since she could make a fist, Kiriai has dreamed of one thing: to stand in front of her people in an official scrapper’s uniform. She is one fight away from making that happen; a brutal team battle against their rivals. If she loses, she’ll be sent back to the mundane life of a healer’s apprentice, banned forever from the arena.
Sento, Kiriai’s sponsor and teammate, comes from a broken family victimized by those in power. Winning this battle is his chance to fight back, gain respect and protect those he loves—if only Kiriai doesn’t ruin it for both of them.
When Kiriai overhears a plot against the boss’s life, she has a choice to make. Will she fight to uncover the dangerous plot no one else believes is real? Or focus on the deciding battle she and Sento have worked their lives to qualify for?
Can Kiriai navigate vicious hood politics, the resentment of older scrappers and an assassination plot? She has the help of a wisecracking AI, her tech-savvy friend, a self-serving mentor and a mysterious gift. But will it be enough?
Combat Mind is the second book in the World of Combat young adult dystopia series. If you like kick-butt heroines, gamelit, intrigue and skilled martial arts, buy a copy today.
Ever since she could make a fist, Kiriai has dreamed of one thing: to stand in front of her people in an official scrapper’s uniform. She is one fight away from making that happen; a brutal team battle against their rivals. If she loses, she’ll be sent back to the mundane life of a healer’s apprentice, banned forever from the arena.
Sento, Kiriai’s sponsor and teammate, comes from a broken family victimized by those in power. Winning this battle is his chance to fight back, gain respect and protect those he loves—if only Kiriai doesn’t ruin it for both of them.
When Kiriai overhears a plot against the boss’s life, she has a choice to make. Will she fight to uncover the dangerous plot no one else believes is real? Or focus on the deciding battle she and Sento have worked their lives to qualify for?
Can Kiriai navigate vicious hood politics, the resentment of older scrappers and an assassination plot? She has the help of a wisecracking AI, her tech-savvy friend, a self-serving mentor and a mysterious gift. But will it be enough?
Combat Mind is the second book in the World of Combat young adult dystopia series. If you like kick-butt heroines, gamelit, intrigue and skilled martial arts, buy a copy today.
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2019
28 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Misty Zaugg
21 books97 followersHi there. Thanks for stopping by!
Imagine a world where disputes are solved by single combat and a girl's dream is to become a scrapper, earning glory and wealth in the arena doing what she loves to do: fight. Pick up Combat Origin, and you'll fall in love with Kiriai, a kick-butt heroine that doesn't let anything stand in her way, ever.
That's the beginning of my Young Adult Dystopian Series: Combat World. It's a fast-paced series you'll want to curl up with and enjoy.
I've got two post-apoc series written now with woman who grow in the midst of disaster and never give up: Aftermath and Escaping the Virus.
Click over to my website if you'd like to read the free prequel to the series, Combat Genesis, and get my regular newsletter.
MistyZaugg.com
And thanks in advance for even a short, 1-liner review. When you're just starting out, like I am, each one makes a huge difference!
I collect hobbies because I love to learn including a black belt, M.D., beekeeper, herbalist, hobby survivalist, yummy bread baker, devout Christian and my greatest accomplishments: homeschool mom of six and wife to the other kind of doctor – the engineering kind.
Please email me with feedback, questions or just to say hi. I love hearing from fans!
— Misty
Imagine a world where disputes are solved by single combat and a girl's dream is to become a scrapper, earning glory and wealth in the arena doing what she loves to do: fight. Pick up Combat Origin, and you'll fall in love with Kiriai, a kick-butt heroine that doesn't let anything stand in her way, ever.
That's the beginning of my Young Adult Dystopian Series: Combat World. It's a fast-paced series you'll want to curl up with and enjoy.
I've got two post-apoc series written now with woman who grow in the midst of disaster and never give up: Aftermath and Escaping the Virus.
Click over to my website if you'd like to read the free prequel to the series, Combat Genesis, and get my regular newsletter.
MistyZaugg.com
And thanks in advance for even a short, 1-liner review. When you're just starting out, like I am, each one makes a huge difference!
I collect hobbies because I love to learn including a black belt, M.D., beekeeper, herbalist, hobby survivalist, yummy bread baker, devout Christian and my greatest accomplishments: homeschool mom of six and wife to the other kind of doctor – the engineering kind.
Please email me with feedback, questions or just to say hi. I love hearing from fans!
— Misty
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 25, 2019
The first book drew me in and this one has me hooked. Loved getting to delve more in to Kiriai's world. The ending though!!!! Has me itching for the next book!
October 30, 2019
This is book two in the World of Combat Dystopia series and follows Kiriai as she progresses in her wish to become a scrapper. She is one fight away from getting her wish, in a bitter battle with their rivals. Her sponsor, Sento, will be one of the trio set to fight against the rival gang and she has to do extra practice with them to learn all the attacks and defences they will use in the fight. They are both much more qualified at fighting than Kiriai and her presence in the team is getting her a lot of hate.
Her extra training is also continuing with Eigo, her best friend who clearly has a massive crush on her, and the AI, nicknamed Yabban, that allows her to have extra and personal training in her martial arts. It all happens inside her head, as she can communicate with the AI with her mind, so long as she remembers not to act out if Yabban says something at the wrong or an unsuitable time. She is progressing through the levels and different moves she has to learn as well as things like observation and healing.
Sitting in the park before going into the dojo one day, she overhears two people speaking about their gang boss and an attempt to be made on his life. She has no idea who was speaking and also didn’t hear any specific details. She wants to go and tell the boss straight away, but is encouraged to get more information first, since he is always under threat. She also can’t risk her current position as a fighter. She certainly doesn’t want to lose or be kicked out, as she will then have to go back to working with her grandfather as a healer, never to be able to fight again.
A nasty incident with her fellow trainees and other fighters occurs just before the main battle and seriously knocks her confidence, especially when she finds out the identities of some of those involved. The boss and her grandfather are among those going to watch the junior scrapper battle and Kiriai worries that an assignation attempt will occur there, when security is more lax. She also has an extra gift she has only just discovered and that her grandfather suspected all along. He adds an assistant to his small business, who is really there to help Kiriai with this new aspect she must keep hidden from even her friends.
Another great read and I am loving the story of Kiriai, her friends and family. She is so determined in working towards what she wants to achieve, even though it goes against her grandfather’s wishes, and she has to put up with a lot more pain and work than she expected. A determined young woman with a strong will and a clear aim. I had read the other books in the series first and came back to read this one as it has some pivotal incidents in it, that are key to Kiriai’s development as a character.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Her extra training is also continuing with Eigo, her best friend who clearly has a massive crush on her, and the AI, nicknamed Yabban, that allows her to have extra and personal training in her martial arts. It all happens inside her head, as she can communicate with the AI with her mind, so long as she remembers not to act out if Yabban says something at the wrong or an unsuitable time. She is progressing through the levels and different moves she has to learn as well as things like observation and healing.
Sitting in the park before going into the dojo one day, she overhears two people speaking about their gang boss and an attempt to be made on his life. She has no idea who was speaking and also didn’t hear any specific details. She wants to go and tell the boss straight away, but is encouraged to get more information first, since he is always under threat. She also can’t risk her current position as a fighter. She certainly doesn’t want to lose or be kicked out, as she will then have to go back to working with her grandfather as a healer, never to be able to fight again.
A nasty incident with her fellow trainees and other fighters occurs just before the main battle and seriously knocks her confidence, especially when she finds out the identities of some of those involved. The boss and her grandfather are among those going to watch the junior scrapper battle and Kiriai worries that an assignation attempt will occur there, when security is more lax. She also has an extra gift she has only just discovered and that her grandfather suspected all along. He adds an assistant to his small business, who is really there to help Kiriai with this new aspect she must keep hidden from even her friends.
Another great read and I am loving the story of Kiriai, her friends and family. She is so determined in working towards what she wants to achieve, even though it goes against her grandfather’s wishes, and she has to put up with a lot more pain and work than she expected. A determined young woman with a strong will and a clear aim. I had read the other books in the series first and came back to read this one as it has some pivotal incidents in it, that are key to Kiriai’s development as a character.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
September 1, 2019
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review. This is simply my opinion on the book and is not influenced by any external factor.
Kiriai’s made progress to her goal of becoming a scrapper but her tests aren’t over yet. She’s one fight away, but if she loses, she will be sent back to a mundane life of a healer’s apprentice. She’s won a spot on the team, along with Sento and Tsuyoi, but this fight won’t be like any she’s ever fought. Lucky for her, Yabban is still there to support her and teach her techniques to help her in combat.
While the first book focused more on Kiriai’s self-development as a fighter, Combat Mind looks at an external conflict when she overhears an assassination plan on the Boss’ life. We still encounter familiar faces from Combat Origin as some of them have a different role to play; Sento for example. Additionally, Kiriai decides to explore the prospect of a romantic relationship, however, the romantic content is minimal, barely passing hand-holding. Still a clean read, minimal cursing, no adult content.
With the focus on the possible assassination attempt, this story brings out the dystopia element more than the previous, as we explore the hierarchy and specific roles of the Scrappers.
At the end of Combat Origin, Kiriai assigned Yabban a trainer point to improve its personality. Instead of the typical robotic transactions, Yabban has a more ‘human’ way of communicating and tries to interact with Kiriai as a friend, which is really sweet.
Ojisan also has been keeping a secret from Kiriai, which will be uncovered in this story.
Without going through specific details and giving out spoilers, I will also just say that I am impressed how much Kiriai has developed as a character throughout the series as she makes a difficult decision where all outcomes have very negative consequences.
This was as good, possibly better than the first. I liked the banter between Kiriai and Eigo, and I also like that Kiriai mended her relationship with Ojisan.
Both books in this series have been great so far, I’m really looking forward to seeing how the rest of the series develops.
Kiriai’s made progress to her goal of becoming a scrapper but her tests aren’t over yet. She’s one fight away, but if she loses, she will be sent back to a mundane life of a healer’s apprentice. She’s won a spot on the team, along with Sento and Tsuyoi, but this fight won’t be like any she’s ever fought. Lucky for her, Yabban is still there to support her and teach her techniques to help her in combat.
While the first book focused more on Kiriai’s self-development as a fighter, Combat Mind looks at an external conflict when she overhears an assassination plan on the Boss’ life. We still encounter familiar faces from Combat Origin as some of them have a different role to play; Sento for example. Additionally, Kiriai decides to explore the prospect of a romantic relationship, however, the romantic content is minimal, barely passing hand-holding. Still a clean read, minimal cursing, no adult content.
With the focus on the possible assassination attempt, this story brings out the dystopia element more than the previous, as we explore the hierarchy and specific roles of the Scrappers.
At the end of Combat Origin, Kiriai assigned Yabban a trainer point to improve its personality. Instead of the typical robotic transactions, Yabban has a more ‘human’ way of communicating and tries to interact with Kiriai as a friend, which is really sweet.
Ojisan also has been keeping a secret from Kiriai, which will be uncovered in this story.
Without going through specific details and giving out spoilers, I will also just say that I am impressed how much Kiriai has developed as a character throughout the series as she makes a difficult decision where all outcomes have very negative consequences.
This was as good, possibly better than the first. I liked the banter between Kiriai and Eigo, and I also like that Kiriai mended her relationship with Ojisan.
Both books in this series have been great so far, I’m really looking forward to seeing how the rest of the series develops.
September 17, 2019
I'm still loving this series! I just got notice from Amazon that the third book comes out October 1st, and I'm excited that I don't have to wait a year for the next book!
This second book continues the saga of Kiriai as she deals with triumphs, betrayal, and an incredible shock. This revelation changes everything she thought she knew about her world. The secrets and atrocities of the City's ruling class are still only hinted at, but more is being revealed. I really enjoyed the development of Kiriai and Yabban (her AI), as well as her interaction with her family and friends. I'm going to say that I think Sento is not right for her and has poor integrity, but we'll see. I like that the series truly is for young adults: there's no graphic (or otherwise) sex, instead an awkward (remember being a teenager?) but touching progression of a romantic relationship. Although after the ricing, well... Looking forward to the next book!
This second book continues the saga of Kiriai as she deals with triumphs, betrayal, and an incredible shock. This revelation changes everything she thought she knew about her world. The secrets and atrocities of the City's ruling class are still only hinted at, but more is being revealed. I really enjoyed the development of Kiriai and Yabban (her AI), as well as her interaction with her family and friends. I'm going to say that I think Sento is not right for her and has poor integrity, but we'll see. I like that the series truly is for young adults: there's no graphic (or otherwise) sex, instead an awkward (remember being a teenager?) but touching progression of a romantic relationship. Although after the ricing, well... Looking forward to the next book!
December 4, 2019
I received an ARC for an objective review.
So, simply put I picked this story up awhile back and was happy to find out there were more. The author was sneaky enough to get me hooked on another site with teasers and I regret nothing.
Much like the first book, I'm very happy to see the world expand through the perspective of the main character. Rather then an overview of the entire world, every scrap of knowledge is slowly unraveling a big picture which add's a nice touch of curiosity for me. I even read the quotes at the start of every chapter which I may normally skim passed. Like many good series, as the main character ages we are also treated to the world changing with her viewpoint. It's fascinating to see the understanding of consequences that comes with experience.
If you liked the first book, I'd honestly state the second book is even better. Can't wait to read the third!
So, simply put I picked this story up awhile back and was happy to find out there were more. The author was sneaky enough to get me hooked on another site with teasers and I regret nothing.
Much like the first book, I'm very happy to see the world expand through the perspective of the main character. Rather then an overview of the entire world, every scrap of knowledge is slowly unraveling a big picture which add's a nice touch of curiosity for me. I even read the quotes at the start of every chapter which I may normally skim passed. Like many good series, as the main character ages we are also treated to the world changing with her viewpoint. It's fascinating to see the understanding of consequences that comes with experience.
If you liked the first book, I'd honestly state the second book is even better. Can't wait to read the third!
August 29, 2019
**** SPOILER ALERT ****
Zaugg takes us back into the "Combat" universe and let's us see the characters learning and growing as the author does a superlative job of continuing to world build.
I have some questions though.
What relationship will Kiriai have with Sento?
Will she finally see that Eigo loves her as more than a friend, or sister?
Will she gain control of her newly discovered "gift"?
Who are the "rats in the woodpile" threatening Jitaku hood?
To find the answers to these, and many more, questions buy the book!
In the interest of transparency: I was given a free review copy of this book. I am voluntarily sharing this review which is my own honest opinion.
Zaugg takes us back into the "Combat" universe and let's us see the characters learning and growing as the author does a superlative job of continuing to world build.
I have some questions though.
What relationship will Kiriai have with Sento?
Will she finally see that Eigo loves her as more than a friend, or sister?
Will she gain control of her newly discovered "gift"?
Who are the "rats in the woodpile" threatening Jitaku hood?
To find the answers to these, and many more, questions buy the book!
In the interest of transparency: I was given a free review copy of this book. I am voluntarily sharing this review which is my own honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2019
Note: I am a beta-reader for this series.
The series gets even better! A lot more is revealed about the world, setting up a lot of adventure to come in the later books, and the action and stakes increase accordingly. Also, the characters! A lot of backstory is revealed, and conflict arises, making the characters even more real. Also, the AI’s personality is awesome. This book also introduces a paranormal element to the series while adding to the combat and the sci-fi. And as always, Kiriai is a brave, determined heroine and a role model to all readers. If you liked book one, book two is a must-read!
The series gets even better! A lot more is revealed about the world, setting up a lot of adventure to come in the later books, and the action and stakes increase accordingly. Also, the characters! A lot of backstory is revealed, and conflict arises, making the characters even more real. Also, the AI’s personality is awesome. This book also introduces a paranormal element to the series while adding to the combat and the sci-fi. And as always, Kiriai is a brave, determined heroine and a role model to all readers. If you liked book one, book two is a must-read!
November 9, 2019
Amazing skill gain from one book to the next! Totally immersive. Do not start this read if you have anything urgency need to complete first...
Being a new author, I wasn't expecting the level of control Misty Z. had over my emotions, my thoughts, or my time! The plot puts you in a bear hug and tightens its control with questions of strength, of rock hard discipline and loyalty and many character traits that Misty Z. focuses a spotlight on with an intensity seldom seen today. A joy to read both as entertainment as well as in witnessing an author coming into her own.
Being a new author, I wasn't expecting the level of control Misty Z. had over my emotions, my thoughts, or my time! The plot puts you in a bear hug and tightens its control with questions of strength, of rock hard discipline and loyalty and many character traits that Misty Z. focuses a spotlight on with an intensity seldom seen today. A joy to read both as entertainment as well as in witnessing an author coming into her own.
September 22, 2019
I love when books in a series begin to outdo their predecessors, and that is exactly what Combat Mind has done. The author drop kicked it out the fighting ring with the intensity of the story, and growth of all the characters. I did figure out who one of villains was, as few books rarely get the one up on me, but the paranoia and stress to the reveal was a nail biter. And of course another ending that leaves you wanting for the next I installment to be here NOW!
October 9, 2019
I love this book! It was very nice reading, indeed. I was so fascinated by the characters. Specially the main character, Kiriai. She is a very strong young woman with a goal in mind, and a very strong determination to get there. I really enjoyed the interaction between Kiriai and Yabban, as well as the other friends. It really shows true friendship and loyalty. I highly recommend this book for those who like adventure, a touch of magic, martial arts, and even little bit of romance.
September 2, 2019
Combat Mind (World of Combat Dystopia Book 2) by Misty Zaugg is an awesome story. This is book number two in this awesome series and I have loved can not wait for the next book in the series to come out so I can read it. I highly recommend this story to all.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
December 3, 2019
She has always wanted to be a scrapped and she is one fight away. Her teammate also wants to win. She hears of a plot of an assassination. She will be left wondering what to do. Will she get to stop the plot? Will she just concentrate on the fight? Will she even be able to do both? See what she decides
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2020
Literally and figuratively fighting for her place in the world
We find out more about the world situation as Kiriai's personal challenges are affected by the overall political and social situation of her family and friends. The book never stops to take a breath as it plunges into an exciting finale. I'm excited to continue reading the series.
We find out more about the world situation as Kiriai's personal challenges are affected by the overall political and social situation of her family and friends. The book never stops to take a breath as it plunges into an exciting finale. I'm excited to continue reading the series.
September 8, 2019
Another great addition to this fantastic dystopian series. A refreshingly different take and a female fighting lead...twists, turns, complex and very real relationships as we follow our heroine on her journey of duscovery
September 26, 2019
Good series
I have read both of her books so far. Although I am not into the martial arts, I loved the twists and turns in this story. It is a fight to do what you feel is right even if it harms you. Looking forward to more. Glad I listened to your son's recommendation.
I have read both of her books so far. Although I am not into the martial arts, I loved the twists and turns in this story. It is a fight to do what you feel is right even if it harms you. Looking forward to more. Glad I listened to your son's recommendation.
October 4, 2019
Just keeps getting better
There was no slow intro for this book. It dives straight in to continuing the events in the first, and they are goooooood. More game mechanics are involved, but done so in a way that really fits nicely into the narrative.
There was no slow intro for this book. It dives straight in to continuing the events in the first, and they are goooooood. More game mechanics are involved, but done so in a way that really fits nicely into the narrative.
September 13, 2019
Love this book. It's the second in the series. I can't wait for the next!
May 25, 2021
I enjoyed this book much better than the first book (the first was a bit slow going) this had lots of action and it felt like the characters are all starting to reveal themselves. Love the determination , sento is definitely not good enough.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews