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After the Green Withered #2
Burden of Truth
Burden of Truth is the highly anticipated sequel to After the Green Withered.
I thought I understood the truth.
I thought I knew the whole story.
But no one really did.
In a country defined by scarcity and control, Enora Byrnes leaves the watchful eyes and secret agendas of the powerful and enters a society living on the fringes. Life beneath the surface brings her face to face with a world struggling to survive. Armed with knowledge and honed into a weapon for the resistance, she fights alongside those whom society deems rebels and uses her skills to steal a secret kept hidden from humanity. Enora becomes what she has hunted: a traitor.
As Enora embarks on a fateful quest, will she find the one thing that could give her world hope or a truth that is far worse than she ever imagined?
I thought I understood the truth.
I thought I knew the whole story.
But no one really did.
In a country defined by scarcity and control, Enora Byrnes leaves the watchful eyes and secret agendas of the powerful and enters a society living on the fringes. Life beneath the surface brings her face to face with a world struggling to survive. Armed with knowledge and honed into a weapon for the resistance, she fights alongside those whom society deems rebels and uses her skills to steal a secret kept hidden from humanity. Enora becomes what she has hunted: a traitor.
As Enora embarks on a fateful quest, will she find the one thing that could give her world hope or a truth that is far worse than she ever imagined?
Unknown Binding
First published November 17, 2018
6 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Ward
13 books265 followersKristin Ward is an award-winning author from Connecticut. She embraces her inner nerd regularly, geeking out with SciFi flicks or quoting 80s movies while expecting those around her to chime in with appropriate rejoinders. As a nature freak, she can be found wandering the woods or chilling in her yard with all manner of furry and feathered friends.
She is often referred to as a unicorn by colleagues who remain in awe of her ability to create or find various and sundry things in mere moments. In reality, the horn was removed years ago, leaving only a mild imprint that can be seen if she tilts her head just right. A lifelong lover of books and writing, she dreamed of becoming an author for thirty years before publishing her award-winning debut in 2018. Her first novel, After the Green Withered, is one of many things you should probably read.
https://www.kristinwardauthor.com/
She is often referred to as a unicorn by colleagues who remain in awe of her ability to create or find various and sundry things in mere moments. In reality, the horn was removed years ago, leaving only a mild imprint that can be seen if she tilts her head just right. A lifelong lover of books and writing, she dreamed of becoming an author for thirty years before publishing her award-winning debut in 2018. Her first novel, After the Green Withered, is one of many things you should probably read.
https://www.kristinwardauthor.com/
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 20, 2020
PLEASE NOTE: THIS BOOK IS NOT A STANDALONE AND MUST BE READ AFTER THE BOOK "After the Green Withered" by KRISTIN WARD.
So what did I think of this book? I thought the book was interesting, intriguing, suspenseful, kept my interest and the book was a page turner. Just when I thought I knew what would happen next something totally different happened and the plot changed. I loved that this book had plot twists and turns. The realism of this that it could possibly happen in our world today with worst case scenario was just incredible.
Does Enora find the real truth? Guess you'll have to read the book to see.
I highly recommend the book for you to buy,read and review.
I like to analyze books while I read them. It's fun yet helps me rate a book.
FOOTNOTE BOOK WARNING: THIS BOOK HAS SOME VIOLENCE SO PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS AND LEGAL CAREGIVERS YOU MAY WANT TO READ THIS BOOK BEFORE LETTING YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN READ THE BOOK. ALSO AS ALWAYS, ANYTIME YOU QUESTION A BOOK OR BOOK SERIES PLEASE READ THE BOOK OR BOOK SERIES YOURSELF FIRST BEFORE LETTING YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN READ THE BOOK.
HAPPY READING EVERYONE!!!!
IF INTERESTED IN "After the Green Withered" and "Burden Of Truth:After the Green Withered", KINDLE VERSION: USE 1ST LINK,
USE 2ND LINK FOR PAPERBACK OF "After the Green Withered"
USE 3RD LINK FOR PAPERBACK OF "BURDEN OF TRUTH: Sequel to After the Green Withered".
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
https://www.amazon.com/After-Green-Wi...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/1731253176/...
So what did I think of this book? I thought the book was interesting, intriguing, suspenseful, kept my interest and the book was a page turner. Just when I thought I knew what would happen next something totally different happened and the plot changed. I loved that this book had plot twists and turns. The realism of this that it could possibly happen in our world today with worst case scenario was just incredible.
Does Enora find the real truth? Guess you'll have to read the book to see.
I highly recommend the book for you to buy,read and review.
I like to analyze books while I read them. It's fun yet helps me rate a book.
FOOTNOTE BOOK WARNING: THIS BOOK HAS SOME VIOLENCE SO PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS AND LEGAL CAREGIVERS YOU MAY WANT TO READ THIS BOOK BEFORE LETTING YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN READ THE BOOK. ALSO AS ALWAYS, ANYTIME YOU QUESTION A BOOK OR BOOK SERIES PLEASE READ THE BOOK OR BOOK SERIES YOURSELF FIRST BEFORE LETTING YOUR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN READ THE BOOK.
HAPPY READING EVERYONE!!!!
IF INTERESTED IN "After the Green Withered" and "Burden Of Truth:After the Green Withered", KINDLE VERSION: USE 1ST LINK,
USE 2ND LINK FOR PAPERBACK OF "After the Green Withered"
USE 3RD LINK FOR PAPERBACK OF "BURDEN OF TRUTH: Sequel to After the Green Withered".
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
https://www.amazon.com/After-Green-Wi...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/1731253176/...
August 13, 2019
...I think it’s safe to say this book was just as dark as the first.
While my favorite thing about book #1, After the Green Withered, was the world-building, my favorite thing about *this* book was how Enora’s life did a complete 360. She started out living in a seemingly waterless world, having to survive off of rations and extremely poor (and thirsty) conditions. Then her life picks up after being recruited by the DMC and, for awhile, everything looks like it’s going to get better. And then... in a series of events that I won’t disclose here for sake of spoilers, Enora finds herself in poor, treacherous, waterless conditions once more. In fact, I would go as far as to say that her life hits an entirely *new* rock bottom, one that it is even worse than before.
This series (I believe I was told it is a duology so, to my knowledge, there are only two books) is unique in that it remains consistently dark and grim. There is no faux happy ending, no celebration, no miraculous discovery of more water. I do believe that the author’s intention was to write a grimly realistic dystopian of what life might be like with little-to-no water after the irreversible consequences of climate change, and it is my personal opinion that she knocked that goal out of the ballpark. If this little series doesn’t leave you at least a little horrified for the sake of our future, then... I’ll find it hard to believe that you and I read the same book.
A 5-star reviewer on Goodreads wrote that, “I am equally in love with and completely terrified by this sequel,” and I think I would have to agree.
As I said in my review of the first book, I think this is a Must Read for fans of dystopia — or, hell, even if you’re just concerned about where our planet could be headed. This book is entirely fiction, but whispers sad, terrifying things about our planet that could potentially be true within a few centuries. That possibility is made even more horrifying by this sequel, and I truly believe anyone concerned about our planet should be wary of these possibilities, as they could potentially be real life someday.
While my favorite thing about book #1, After the Green Withered, was the world-building, my favorite thing about *this* book was how Enora’s life did a complete 360. She started out living in a seemingly waterless world, having to survive off of rations and extremely poor (and thirsty) conditions. Then her life picks up after being recruited by the DMC and, for awhile, everything looks like it’s going to get better. And then... in a series of events that I won’t disclose here for sake of spoilers, Enora finds herself in poor, treacherous, waterless conditions once more. In fact, I would go as far as to say that her life hits an entirely *new* rock bottom, one that it is even worse than before.
This series (I believe I was told it is a duology so, to my knowledge, there are only two books) is unique in that it remains consistently dark and grim. There is no faux happy ending, no celebration, no miraculous discovery of more water. I do believe that the author’s intention was to write a grimly realistic dystopian of what life might be like with little-to-no water after the irreversible consequences of climate change, and it is my personal opinion that she knocked that goal out of the ballpark. If this little series doesn’t leave you at least a little horrified for the sake of our future, then... I’ll find it hard to believe that you and I read the same book.
A 5-star reviewer on Goodreads wrote that, “I am equally in love with and completely terrified by this sequel,” and I think I would have to agree.
As I said in my review of the first book, I think this is a Must Read for fans of dystopia — or, hell, even if you’re just concerned about where our planet could be headed. This book is entirely fiction, but whispers sad, terrifying things about our planet that could potentially be true within a few centuries. That possibility is made even more horrifying by this sequel, and I truly believe anyone concerned about our planet should be wary of these possibilities, as they could potentially be real life someday.
January 23, 2024
Burden of Truth," oh, where do I begin? This sequel, a long-awaited companion to the mesmerizing "After the Green Withered," took me on an emotional rollercoaster that left me breathless and utterly captivated.
As I delved into the pages, I felt like I was stepping into Enora Byrnes' shoes, escaping the watchful eyes of the powerful and immersing myself in a society clinging to survival on the fringes. The author's ability to breathe life into this dystopian world made the experience intensely personal, as if I was a silent companion on Enora's journey.
Thinking I had a grasp on the truth, I soon discovered there were layers yet to be uncovered. The struggle for survival, the blurred morality, and Enora's transformation into a traitor were painted with such nuance that I couldn't help but be emotionally invested.
The 'wow' moment hit me when I realized there might be a third installment. The anticipation and hope stirred within me, eager to explore more of this world and its characters. The prospect of uncovering a truth even more profound than imagined left me yearning for the next chapter in this gripping saga.
This isn't just a sequel; it's a continuation of a personal connection with characters I've come to love. The rebels, the secrets, and the quest for truth felt like threads woven into my own story. "Burden of Truth" isn't just a book; it's an intimate exploration of emotions, mysteries, and the human spirit that resonates deeply within. I can't wait to dive into the next chapter of this extraordinary journey.
As I delved into the pages, I felt like I was stepping into Enora Byrnes' shoes, escaping the watchful eyes of the powerful and immersing myself in a society clinging to survival on the fringes. The author's ability to breathe life into this dystopian world made the experience intensely personal, as if I was a silent companion on Enora's journey.
Thinking I had a grasp on the truth, I soon discovered there were layers yet to be uncovered. The struggle for survival, the blurred morality, and Enora's transformation into a traitor were painted with such nuance that I couldn't help but be emotionally invested.
The 'wow' moment hit me when I realized there might be a third installment. The anticipation and hope stirred within me, eager to explore more of this world and its characters. The prospect of uncovering a truth even more profound than imagined left me yearning for the next chapter in this gripping saga.
This isn't just a sequel; it's a continuation of a personal connection with characters I've come to love. The rebels, the secrets, and the quest for truth felt like threads woven into my own story. "Burden of Truth" isn't just a book; it's an intimate exploration of emotions, mysteries, and the human spirit that resonates deeply within. I can't wait to dive into the next chapter of this extraordinary journey.
January 13, 2024
This is one of the scariest, on edge books I have read in a while. The realism that this could very much happen had my heart racing. I felt sick at times, sobbed, and wanted to throw my book. What an amazing read that will stay with me for a very long time. Kristin's writing is superb. I will read anything she writes.
August 19, 2021
An absolutely enthralling journey! I’m so glad I had a chance to read this awesome duet! It was my first time reading sci fi and I crave more! What have you done to me Kristin Ward?!? Anyways I’m off to read my new copy of Rise of Gaia now! I told you she started a thing!
February 1, 2020
Book source ~ Review copy. My review is voluntary and honest.
Enora Byrnes has lived her whole life under the control of the DMC. Water is scarce and the resource must be carefully guarded. But the resistance believes the DMC has more than they are sharing. Enora and Springer were soldiers for the DMC once. Now they are with the resistance and with each day that passes, things get worse. Stories are told on both sides, but they both can’t be right. Can they?
This is a bleak look into a future we don’t want. Ever. I can’t imagine this world as a real world and yet I know it could happen. If we aren’t much more careful with this planet we live on, that supports us, we will be staring right into the face of this tale. And it is not pretty. Enora is such a conflicted character. At times it’s hard to like her because she has a tendency to be an idiot, but for the most part I feel for her. Springer is her one constant and he’s still a bit of a mystery. One thing that’s unquestionable is his devotion to Enora. He always has her back. They are in this together, all the way to the end. And then there’s Ander. What are they going to do with him? If you like YA Dystopian stories then you should really pick up After the Green Withered and this one. They will wring your heart out until you’re left with a dried out husk. Fitting for this desolate world.
Enora Byrnes has lived her whole life under the control of the DMC. Water is scarce and the resource must be carefully guarded. But the resistance believes the DMC has more than they are sharing. Enora and Springer were soldiers for the DMC once. Now they are with the resistance and with each day that passes, things get worse. Stories are told on both sides, but they both can’t be right. Can they?
This is a bleak look into a future we don’t want. Ever. I can’t imagine this world as a real world and yet I know it could happen. If we aren’t much more careful with this planet we live on, that supports us, we will be staring right into the face of this tale. And it is not pretty. Enora is such a conflicted character. At times it’s hard to like her because she has a tendency to be an idiot, but for the most part I feel for her. Springer is her one constant and he’s still a bit of a mystery. One thing that’s unquestionable is his devotion to Enora. He always has her back. They are in this together, all the way to the end. And then there’s Ander. What are they going to do with him? If you like YA Dystopian stories then you should really pick up After the Green Withered and this one. They will wring your heart out until you’re left with a dried out husk. Fitting for this desolate world.
November 25, 2018
I am equally in love with and completely terrified by this sequel. The first book was frightening but the revelations of the second book made it so much scarier. The actions of the DMC were horrifying, even if tempered by later understanding. The actions of the "Good Guys" make you question which side you should actually be rooting for. Not to mention, our REAL world could look similar to this for our grandchild or their kids. And that to me is the scariest idea. Enora remained consistent, if a little repetitive earlier in the book. She also showed great growth and maturity during the sequel. The relationship between Enora and Springer evolved realistically and was a good balance against the atrocities surrounding them. A little speck of light in the horror. The pseudo mothering role Enora finds herself in is pivotal to her growth and to the enlightenment of the story. The ending is by far the best and worst part of the book. It's heartbreaking, shocking, and evocative. I can't say the ending is cathartic but it's more important that the message of it resonates. It's a complete ending but leaves you questioning the motives of everyone and the future of humanity. A fantastic follow up to an amazing debut. Highly recommend.
January 17, 2019
With The Burden of Truth, Ms. Ward has fully come into her own as a writer. The character development that was a highlight of After the Green Withered continues in this sequel, with new insights into Enora and a host of both new and returning characters. The reader is drawn into Enora's plight and the difficult moral decisions she must grapple with as she dives deeper into the resistance and uncovering the secrets within her world. The action is vivid and quick-paced, this book is definitely a page turner! There are twists and turns throughout, and the reader is left to the end eagerly awaiting an unknown future.
The ending is a refreshing change from most current dystopian fiction. Ultimately, we realize that the struggles that Enora faces are not so dissimilar from our own. It may not be the ending that we want, but it truly compels us to weigh the burden of truth within our own actions.
The ending is a refreshing change from most current dystopian fiction. Ultimately, we realize that the struggles that Enora faces are not so dissimilar from our own. It may not be the ending that we want, but it truly compels us to weigh the burden of truth within our own actions.
February 10, 2019
Book 2 is a must read. Well-planned and researched, Burden of Truth, is the sequel to an eye-opening story of a dystopian future on earth, when water and food are scarce, and a battle to create an evolved life form occurs. The book is captivating, and I stayed up late reading the final chapters. I really like the writing and character development, and my heart ached for Ander. The ending is thought-provoking and suggests a completely conceivable outcome. Given Enora’s choices, I wonder what I would do.
December 4, 2018
Burden of Truth is the second in this series and Kristin Ward did not disappoint.
Very well written, well thought out and very well researched, the book compels the reader to reflect, think and perhaps wake up and realize that it is not the future mentioned, but is also the present slowly getting there.
There are various points to consider, as in: -
Do the 'Good Guys' merit the word 'good' even with the eventual explanation given as to their actions? What are the actual motives of everyone concerned? Is this the scenario that we as humanity deserve?
No one really knows the whole truth and the whole story. History, no matter how watered down has shown this. Much is hidden before our very eyes and it is always just a partial truth and a partial story. What has always save humanity is hope. Highly recommended!
Gifted with a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Very well written, well thought out and very well researched, the book compels the reader to reflect, think and perhaps wake up and realize that it is not the future mentioned, but is also the present slowly getting there.
There are various points to consider, as in: -
Do the 'Good Guys' merit the word 'good' even with the eventual explanation given as to their actions? What are the actual motives of everyone concerned? Is this the scenario that we as humanity deserve?
No one really knows the whole truth and the whole story. History, no matter how watered down has shown this. Much is hidden before our very eyes and it is always just a partial truth and a partial story. What has always save humanity is hope. Highly recommended!
Gifted with a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
May 7, 2019
Wow. Just wow. This was one of the most incredible books I have read this year. It was emotionally painful and had an absolutely devastating ending despite having SO. MUCH. HOPE.
I loved the creation and characterization of Ander - how he was so innocent and sweet, how his emotions were so jumbled and confused (in most situations because he was so sheltered in Renascence), and how his body functioned so efficiently (reading the author's note was brilliant because she talks about how she created the Aurora Strain). This contrasted greatly with how much the humans (Springer and Enora and Hal) struggled to stay alive throughout while he had the energy to manage with minimal water. He couldn't understand why they were so efficient because he lived his whole life with efficiency.
I loved the relationship between Springer and Enora. What a SLOW BURN! They didn't confess their love until nearly the end of the book which made it that much sweeter and that much bitter (because they couldn't spend much more of their life together in love given that they had to call on the DMC to "save them" in the end). Their dynamic was brilliant, they were in-sync nearly the whole time (even though Enora was AWFUL at following directions), and they ended together.
Hal was the hero I never knew I wanted, and his sacrifice broke me. He somehow stole the show and my heart all the way up until the end. He was paternal, understanding, equally as hopeful, and knew that the message that Enora and Springer wanted to share with the world was worth sacrificing for. I'm somewhat glad that he wasn't there when they discovered the truth about the lake, and I'm also saddened by it because he sacrificed himself for (basically) no reason but the cause they thought was there.
The DMC vs the Rebellion - oof. The fact that everything, in the end, became so gray made the relationship between the two very confusing. The whole time I was hating on the DMC for lying to their people about Ander and the Aurora Strain, but the end helped me understand why they were doing it. I loved that the Rebellion stood for the truth, but in the end, they were making crappy sacrifices that weren't necessary - the Aurora Strain was inevitable. So who do you hate? Who can you hate? I felt conflicted the whole time.
Overall, wonderfully written. I was hanging on the edge the whole time, and in the end, the "malevolent power" (the DMC) actually knew the truth and held the burden so the people didn't have to. Because the truth was so hurtful...That Ander was the future - humans couldn't exist in the future. Resisting this truth means resisting reality.
I loved the creation and characterization of Ander - how he was so innocent and sweet, how his emotions were so jumbled and confused (in most situations because he was so sheltered in Renascence), and how his body functioned so efficiently (reading the author's note was brilliant because she talks about how she created the Aurora Strain). This contrasted greatly with how much the humans (Springer and Enora and Hal) struggled to stay alive throughout while he had the energy to manage with minimal water. He couldn't understand why they were so efficient because he lived his whole life with efficiency.
I loved the relationship between Springer and Enora. What a SLOW BURN! They didn't confess their love until nearly the end of the book which made it that much sweeter and that much bitter (because they couldn't spend much more of their life together in love given that they had to call on the DMC to "save them" in the end). Their dynamic was brilliant, they were in-sync nearly the whole time (even though Enora was AWFUL at following directions), and they ended together.
Hal was the hero I never knew I wanted, and his sacrifice broke me. He somehow stole the show and my heart all the way up until the end. He was paternal, understanding, equally as hopeful, and knew that the message that Enora and Springer wanted to share with the world was worth sacrificing for. I'm somewhat glad that he wasn't there when they discovered the truth about the lake, and I'm also saddened by it because he sacrificed himself for (basically) no reason but the cause they thought was there.
The DMC vs the Rebellion - oof. The fact that everything, in the end, became so gray made the relationship between the two very confusing. The whole time I was hating on the DMC for lying to their people about Ander and the Aurora Strain, but the end helped me understand why they were doing it. I loved that the Rebellion stood for the truth, but in the end, they were making crappy sacrifices that weren't necessary - the Aurora Strain was inevitable. So who do you hate? Who can you hate? I felt conflicted the whole time.
Overall, wonderfully written. I was hanging on the edge the whole time, and in the end, the "malevolent power" (the DMC) actually knew the truth and held the burden so the people didn't have to. Because the truth was so hurtful...That Ander was the future - humans couldn't exist in the future. Resisting this truth means resisting reality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2019
In Book 1, After the Green Withered, Enora and her partner, Springer, discovered that the Company was conducting experiments with human genetics to create a new human race – to replace the current one. Building from here, Book 2, Burden of Truth, Enora comes to realize that her childhood friend (and now, her commander), Bram, has sent her on specific missions to open her eyes and mind to what the Company has been going to the barely surviving population of what was once the United States: keeping resources back and giving the best to the privileged few.
When she and Springer are uncovered as assisting the resistance, they flee to the nearest group’s underground headquarters hoping to aid the cause all they can. In retaliation, everyone that Enora loves, her parents, her friend Safa, even Bram, are killed by the Company or members of the resistance who never forgave her for things that happened when she was on the other side. Then Enora and Springer discover that the motives are not as pure on the side of the Resistance as they believed.
Exciting twists and turns lead up to a devastatingly climactic ending. I liked the dark nature of the story and the characters were portrayed realistically. There is a growing romance between Enora and Springer that developed slowly and in a natural fashion in my opinion. And other thoughts and reactions by the main characters seemed in line. I thought the ending was perfect.... I didn't like that that was how it was but I thought it couldn't realistically end any other way!Recommended for YA readers that enjoy dystopian tales.
June 1, 2021
Picking up almost immediately after where After the Green Withered left off, Burden of Truth picks up the story of Enora Byrnes as she tries to learn more about the people behind the DMC.
Having decided to join the resistance, Enora is faced with numerous difficult decisions and must deal with the sometimes heart-breaking consequences. It is not an easy path she and Springer have decided to take.
Much like with the first book, Burden of Truth is a fast-paced and multi-faceted story. Many of the same characters from the first book return with a few new ones introduced along the way. Time has passed for everyone and it hasn’t always been kind.
Enora continues to agonize over her choices, again and again saying she has blood on her hands for the things she has done. Compared to what other characters have done over the course of the two books (and even beforehand), Enora’s so-called sins are a mere drop in the bucket.
Readers looking for a happy ending where Enora and Springer somehow defeat the “evil” DMC should look elsewhere. The ending of Burden of Truth is a truthful one, just not a happy one. Considering the world that Ward has created in her novels, it is also the only plausible one.
As much as I enjoyed reading Burden of Truth, it was a difficult book to read at times. Simply because the base premise of the story is relatable. It is so easy to picture a future as described and it is frightening.
December 31, 2023
Honestly? I couldn’t put it down! I love that the author leaves you in the dark just as long as the main character and then all of the sudden she puts the pieces together right in front of you. She keeps you inside her main characters head for the majority of this sequel and it’s absolutely perfect. You see what she sees and feel what she feels and know what she knows, and it really makes you as a reader want the very best outcome for her and her world. It’s a connection that will bring you to your knees as you discover what she discovers, and learn what she learns. The author is brilliant, and an immediate favorite. This book, for me, was better than the first, but they are a new take on dystopian future that I have never seen before. It was just what I’d been looking for in a new author, new character, new story, and new favorite!
April 3, 2019
Probably a 3.7 stars for me.
A good ending to the duology.
I definitely think that the storyline was interesting. I enjoyed the characters although I got a bit frustrated with Enora when I realized that she didn't seem to care much about her friends' (mostly Springer's) backstory.
The writing was still quite good. There were a few more redundancies in the second book and the pace was not as enthralling as the first but it really picked up around 75% for a great ending.
I do think that the duology conveys a strong and important message to our generation.
A good ending to the duology.
I definitely think that the storyline was interesting. I enjoyed the characters although I got a bit frustrated with Enora when I realized that she didn't seem to care much about her friends' (mostly Springer's) backstory.
The writing was still quite good. There were a few more redundancies in the second book and the pace was not as enthralling as the first but it really picked up around 75% for a great ending.
I do think that the duology conveys a strong and important message to our generation.
January 13, 2024
Book 2 of the duology of After the Green Withered.... The Company has control of everything and everyone but resistance is inevitable. What is the cost of finding the truth? Is there any hope? Is the hope what you expect it to be? Is knowing the truth worth the Burden.... I highly recommend this book! It will tear your heart out over and over but will leave you wanting to know more each and every sentence. A very foreboding tale if our world continues on darker paths. This duology will leave you changed, eyes wide open.... and I think we all as a society.... as beings on this planet... could use it.
July 24, 2025
Kristin Ward does it again with Burden of Truth.
Enora and Springer—what a team. The way they trust each other, give space, and still come back with a plan—it’s just so real. But this story isn’t just about two people trying to survive. It’s a warning.
The environmental message hit me hard. With everything going on—threats to national parks, cuts to clean energy—it feels way too close to home.
This is exactly why I love dystopian fiction. It makes you think. It shows what could happen if we don’t act. And sometimes, it teaches us more than nonfiction ever could.
Enora and Springer—what a team. The way they trust each other, give space, and still come back with a plan—it’s just so real. But this story isn’t just about two people trying to survive. It’s a warning.
The environmental message hit me hard. With everything going on—threats to national parks, cuts to clean energy—it feels way too close to home.
This is exactly why I love dystopian fiction. It makes you think. It shows what could happen if we don’t act. And sometimes, it teaches us more than nonfiction ever could.
February 15, 2019
I picked this up having loved the first book. A world where water is the currency and the chances of survival outside the Company are slim. Faced with joining the rebels, with fighting for what they both believe is right, Enora starts to see a different side to both the fight and the world she lives in.; It's a heartbreaking tale that gives drops of hope before they are almost pulled away. An amazing story with a cautionary ending. I very much enjoyed it and can not recommend it enough!
July 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, so much so, that I could see it becoming a movie (paired with the first book). It reminds me of Stranger Things, The City of Ember and Hunger Games.
It was a thought provoking and imaginative read. It was a plot twisting page turner that was even more fast paced than the first book. I could not predict the ending which was the most disappointing part of the book. Though I wish there was a happier ending, I would highly recommend this series. It is a dystopian masterpiece that would be good for young adults and adults.
It was a thought provoking and imaginative read. It was a plot twisting page turner that was even more fast paced than the first book. I could not predict the ending which was the most disappointing part of the book. Though I wish there was a happier ending, I would highly recommend this series. It is a dystopian masterpiece that would be good for young adults and adults.
September 10, 2019
**** SPOILER ALERT ****
In "Burden of Truth" Ward provides us a cautionary tale of what may happen if we as a species do not shape up our act.
The author continues their superb world building and character development in this "What if" story.
The twist at the end of this action packed tale will definitely surprise the reader.
In the interest of transparency: I was given a free review copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing this review which is my own honest opinion.
In "Burden of Truth" Ward provides us a cautionary tale of what may happen if we as a species do not shape up our act.
The author continues their superb world building and character development in this "What if" story.
The twist at the end of this action packed tale will definitely surprise the reader.
In the interest of transparency: I was given a free review copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing this review which is my own honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2019
This book is so amazing! The characters are so real, you feel everything that is happening to them. It was very well researched and written. I keep hoping every book I read from this author becomes a movie! Loved it!!
February 20, 2023
Powerful Dystopian Tragic Beauty!!
Wow!!! What a series!! Soooo many secrets, complex alliances, truly beautiful characters, and lots of philosophy about climate and humanity itself!! SOOO IMPACTFUL!! DEF read this series!!
Wow!!! What a series!! Soooo many secrets, complex alliances, truly beautiful characters, and lots of philosophy about climate and humanity itself!! SOOO IMPACTFUL!! DEF read this series!!
May 8, 2019
Wow loved the book wish there was another one
July 18, 2021
Even better than the first book. Big twist at the end. I haven’t read a book this fast in a long time. Loved it!
April 14, 2019
Writing Style
After the unique style of After the Green Withered, I was expecting this one to follow the same style. What I found was that although there were elements that were still there, there were also elements that felt very similar to some other dystopian YA novels.
I still want to know what happens next. But I’m almost afraid to know because it’s so close to tipping into the realm of what’s been done multiple times already. Which is one of the issues I have with the YA genre that Kristin has done SO WELL to keep clear of so far.
I know it’s really hard (if not impossible) to come up with 100% unique stories these days. But this one is getting perilously close to the point of no return for me. And I REALLY hope it doesn’t go that way because I really did love the first one.
Please Kristin, do not go the way of Hunger Games, Divergent and The 100! Your story is so different, and it doesn’t deserve to be tarnished with those generic story lines!
Note: I still enjoyed those stories, I just don’t want to read another one that follows almost the same skeleton for the story and character development as so many other YA books.
Initial Thoughts
I really felt like there was hope that Enora could be true to herself and what she believes in. Maybe she could be the driving force for change in a positive way.
At the same time, was I reading the vibes between Enora and Springer properly? Were they being set up to fall for each other and be a romance within the story? I kinda hope not.
I’m really loving the focus on the survival and the truth. So, I hope it isn’t ruined by an attempt to put some romance in there just coz it feels like there probably should be some romance to balance the sorrow that otherwise overpowers the story.
Final Thoughts
By the end of the book I was wishing Kristin took a different route for the story. Almost all my fears for the story and character development were realised.
Enora and Springer end up kinda being a couple, the rebel faction is possibly just as evil as the DMC so Enora and Springer decide to make their own way. Only to end up pretty much dead (but still alive) right at the end of the book and Enora doing something quite possibly, ridiculously stupid in an attempt to save their lives.
Sound familiar to anyone?
If you’re not sure, think about Katness almost shooting the rebel leader and at the last second shooting the evil president in Hunger Games. Not to mention her weird romance with Peeta. In Divergent, don’t Beatrice and Four leave the rebels and their home in the hope of finding something better when it turns out the rebels are as bad as their ruling council?
I don’t like drawing parallels between different stories. But every step this book took towards this feel I cringed. Kristin, it feels like you have so much creativity and some great ideas that are different to anything that’s happened before. Please bring this out in full force for Ander's story!
I still enjoyed the story as a whole, there were just moments when I felt like those parallels were glaringly obvious. While at other's it was still it's own story with no other similarities that made me mourn right alongside Enora and Springer.
After the unique style of After the Green Withered, I was expecting this one to follow the same style. What I found was that although there were elements that were still there, there were also elements that felt very similar to some other dystopian YA novels.
I still want to know what happens next. But I’m almost afraid to know because it’s so close to tipping into the realm of what’s been done multiple times already. Which is one of the issues I have with the YA genre that Kristin has done SO WELL to keep clear of so far.
I know it’s really hard (if not impossible) to come up with 100% unique stories these days. But this one is getting perilously close to the point of no return for me. And I REALLY hope it doesn’t go that way because I really did love the first one.
Please Kristin, do not go the way of Hunger Games, Divergent and The 100! Your story is so different, and it doesn’t deserve to be tarnished with those generic story lines!
Note: I still enjoyed those stories, I just don’t want to read another one that follows almost the same skeleton for the story and character development as so many other YA books.
Initial Thoughts
I really felt like there was hope that Enora could be true to herself and what she believes in. Maybe she could be the driving force for change in a positive way.
At the same time, was I reading the vibes between Enora and Springer properly? Were they being set up to fall for each other and be a romance within the story? I kinda hope not.
I’m really loving the focus on the survival and the truth. So, I hope it isn’t ruined by an attempt to put some romance in there just coz it feels like there probably should be some romance to balance the sorrow that otherwise overpowers the story.
Final Thoughts
By the end of the book I was wishing Kristin took a different route for the story. Almost all my fears for the story and character development were realised.
Enora and Springer end up kinda being a couple, the rebel faction is possibly just as evil as the DMC so Enora and Springer decide to make their own way. Only to end up pretty much dead (but still alive) right at the end of the book and Enora doing something quite possibly, ridiculously stupid in an attempt to save their lives.
Sound familiar to anyone?
If you’re not sure, think about Katness almost shooting the rebel leader and at the last second shooting the evil president in Hunger Games. Not to mention her weird romance with Peeta. In Divergent, don’t Beatrice and Four leave the rebels and their home in the hope of finding something better when it turns out the rebels are as bad as their ruling council?
I don’t like drawing parallels between different stories. But every step this book took towards this feel I cringed. Kristin, it feels like you have so much creativity and some great ideas that are different to anything that’s happened before. Please bring this out in full force for Ander's story!
I still enjoyed the story as a whole, there were just moments when I felt like those parallels were glaringly obvious. While at other's it was still it's own story with no other similarities that made me mourn right alongside Enora and Springer.
October 16, 2019
An Edgy & Powerful Dystopian Thriller!
Overview: Armed with knowledge and honed into a weapon for the resistance, Enora Bynes leaves the watchful eyes of the all-powerful Company and enters a society barely surviving on the fringes. Life beneath the surface brings her face to face with a world struggling to survive, and it is that revelation that causes her to make a fateful choice—to fight alongside the rebels and become what she had been trained to hunt—A traitor.
Kristin Ward pens an edgy and powerful dystopian thriller in the second chapter of her After the Green Withered series, “Burden of Truth”. With bleak hopes for the future of humankind, a world teetering on the edge, and oppositional forces trying hard to overcome the current regime, Ward leads readers on a dire quest to save humanity as seen through the eyes of a young woman fated to be a leader, but who still struggles with her own internal demons.
Ward’s main protagonist, Enora, is the type of heroine most of us can identify with—She is caring, trustworthy, and hopeful. Yet, in a world where families are pulled apart and children are trained to kill other children, Enora is a regretful fighter but a stolid survivor. After witnessing a horrific scene involving genocide (in Book 1 of “After the Green Withered”), Enora escapes the Company, the ruling elite responsible for the degradation and denigration of society, and joins an underworld of freedom fighters. All she knows from her prior life as a recruit is how to kill, and compared to the wealthy Company that honed her skills as a Pathfinder, the rebels are a sorry lot. Still, there is leadership within these ranks and she hopes for a better way of life. When her primary assignment for the rebels-to protect a genetically engineered child—goes awry, she must make an impossible decision between life and death.
In Enora, Author Ward presents a strong and admirable, risk-taking female lead who is, at the same time, vulnerable to her thoughts and emotions. Although Enora has been brainwashed and trained to be a killer operative for the Company, she retains that part of her that is still very much human and fights against her programming to become a warrior of hope for the 99%. Ward provides a view into Enora’s mind, heart, and soul as she leads her character into danger time and again, only to escape the depths of despair like a phoenix rising from the ashes. In the end, like every great heroine, Enora must admit the reality of her situation and face her demons as Author Ward places her in an impossible situation in which her decisions will have major consequences on whether humankind will survive or not.
Ward’s tale is rather macabre in depicting the descent of humankind and the rise of human hybrids, but science is already moving forward with new discoveries such as genetic engineering, biological implants, and drugs that modify behavior. These very methods (gene therapy, body enhancement and reconstruction, etc.) are already employed by today’s medical professionals and militaries across the globe. The problem Ward so eloquently points out in her series is whether these medical marvels will prove to be a benefit or harm to our future world.
In the end, “Burden of Truth” provides a cautionary tale of what could happen to our own world if we allow privilege, political and corporate corruption, bigotry, and hatred to go unchecked. This book series appeals to a specific audience, and I highly recommend this read for dystopian fantasy lovers above the age of 17, and for those who dabble in speculations about the future of the human race.
Overview: Armed with knowledge and honed into a weapon for the resistance, Enora Bynes leaves the watchful eyes of the all-powerful Company and enters a society barely surviving on the fringes. Life beneath the surface brings her face to face with a world struggling to survive, and it is that revelation that causes her to make a fateful choice—to fight alongside the rebels and become what she had been trained to hunt—A traitor.
Kristin Ward pens an edgy and powerful dystopian thriller in the second chapter of her After the Green Withered series, “Burden of Truth”. With bleak hopes for the future of humankind, a world teetering on the edge, and oppositional forces trying hard to overcome the current regime, Ward leads readers on a dire quest to save humanity as seen through the eyes of a young woman fated to be a leader, but who still struggles with her own internal demons.
Ward’s main protagonist, Enora, is the type of heroine most of us can identify with—She is caring, trustworthy, and hopeful. Yet, in a world where families are pulled apart and children are trained to kill other children, Enora is a regretful fighter but a stolid survivor. After witnessing a horrific scene involving genocide (in Book 1 of “After the Green Withered”), Enora escapes the Company, the ruling elite responsible for the degradation and denigration of society, and joins an underworld of freedom fighters. All she knows from her prior life as a recruit is how to kill, and compared to the wealthy Company that honed her skills as a Pathfinder, the rebels are a sorry lot. Still, there is leadership within these ranks and she hopes for a better way of life. When her primary assignment for the rebels-to protect a genetically engineered child—goes awry, she must make an impossible decision between life and death.
In Enora, Author Ward presents a strong and admirable, risk-taking female lead who is, at the same time, vulnerable to her thoughts and emotions. Although Enora has been brainwashed and trained to be a killer operative for the Company, she retains that part of her that is still very much human and fights against her programming to become a warrior of hope for the 99%. Ward provides a view into Enora’s mind, heart, and soul as she leads her character into danger time and again, only to escape the depths of despair like a phoenix rising from the ashes. In the end, like every great heroine, Enora must admit the reality of her situation and face her demons as Author Ward places her in an impossible situation in which her decisions will have major consequences on whether humankind will survive or not.
Ward’s tale is rather macabre in depicting the descent of humankind and the rise of human hybrids, but science is already moving forward with new discoveries such as genetic engineering, biological implants, and drugs that modify behavior. These very methods (gene therapy, body enhancement and reconstruction, etc.) are already employed by today’s medical professionals and militaries across the globe. The problem Ward so eloquently points out in her series is whether these medical marvels will prove to be a benefit or harm to our future world.
In the end, “Burden of Truth” provides a cautionary tale of what could happen to our own world if we allow privilege, political and corporate corruption, bigotry, and hatred to go unchecked. This book series appeals to a specific audience, and I highly recommend this read for dystopian fantasy lovers above the age of 17, and for those who dabble in speculations about the future of the human race.
May 10, 2019
In a word-Amazing!
This was quite the ride! Just when I thought I had the plot figured out, there was another twist! I was lucky enough to obtain an ARC (advanced reader copy) of this novel and let me just say it exceeded my expectations! The first novel was incredible and left me wanting more and this sequel truly did not disappoint. I was enthralled as I read every page and I was truly satisfied with the ending. I cannot wait to see what else Mrs. Ward has in store for us!
This was quite the ride! Just when I thought I had the plot figured out, there was another twist! I was lucky enough to obtain an ARC (advanced reader copy) of this novel and let me just say it exceeded my expectations! The first novel was incredible and left me wanting more and this sequel truly did not disappoint. I was enthralled as I read every page and I was truly satisfied with the ending. I cannot wait to see what else Mrs. Ward has in store for us!
November 21, 2018
I cannot write much about the ending of this book as it would spoil the read for any wanting to get into this second book. What I can say is that this follows Enora's quest to find salvation for normal people in a land where there is NO or not much water. She finds that those that rule are trying to genetically modify humans...........................
The question here is: is it moral to survive and at what price????
The question here is: is it moral to survive and at what price????
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