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The Divine Courage Trilogy #1
Defender: The Divine Courage Trilogy Book 1
Cast out of her family, Larken Hale, the Daughter of the Military, is forced to take up the cause to appease her family. Leaving everything she knows and loves behind, Larken sets out and tries to find her own way.
Captain Soren Deckard has only ever known the military, and he understands what is expected of him. But when the District Heiress joins the squad he has worked so hard to perfect, she turns everything he thought he knew upside down.
When their two lives clash together, it seems like nothing will survive the carnage. Together, they must learn to trust and accept the other. But when feelings and emotions are set on fire, will the two make it out to the other side?
Captain Soren Deckard has only ever known the military, and he understands what is expected of him. But when the District Heiress joins the squad he has worked so hard to perfect, she turns everything he thought he knew upside down.
When their two lives clash together, it seems like nothing will survive the carnage. Together, they must learn to trust and accept the other. But when feelings and emotions are set on fire, will the two make it out to the other side?
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 22, 2022
18 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 22, 2022
Larken Hale has been assigned to serve in the military, despite coming from a wealthy family and being a Star within the fictional world where she resides … she has been trained by her trusted mentor, Vallen, and she leaves him reluctantly as she reports to Squad 19 … she is quickly accepted by the other squad members, and along the way she gains three admirers - Dominic, Loxley, and Soren …
There was a sort of sweetness about this book … the author really took the time to develop the friendships and romances between the characters … there is an appealing innocence about Larken - her shyness with her admirers, her internal battle to hide her sensitivity with a facade of physical strength and a talent for swordplay … however, the plot twists seemed forced, and I sometimes got confused about the storyline about the groups of rebels attacking Larken … this book reads more like a romance novel with a backdrop of military menace than as a sci-fi or dystopian novel and accidental romance …
There was a sort of sweetness about this book … the author really took the time to develop the friendships and romances between the characters … there is an appealing innocence about Larken - her shyness with her admirers, her internal battle to hide her sensitivity with a facade of physical strength and a talent for swordplay … however, the plot twists seemed forced, and I sometimes got confused about the storyline about the groups of rebels attacking Larken … this book reads more like a romance novel with a backdrop of military menace than as a sci-fi or dystopian novel and accidental romance …
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June 27, 2022The story played out, the two men wooing the girl and fighting for her affections.
I'm not super well-read, but this was a book like nothing I've ever read before.
From the blurb, I was expecting a romance. (The POV characters are a beautiful, tormented, capable heroine and an alpha male captain.) But while there is attraction and affection between quite a few of the characters, the story doesn't conform to the romance formula. I also anticipated that it might be some kind of war story, but to me it felt more like a slice-of-life novel set in a futuristic military base. There are a few battles, but what I remembered most was the portrayal of everyday life on the base and the angst associated with complicated human interactions and relationships.
I found the world itself to be interesting; when people interacted with various forms of technology and an unfamiliar society, it felt real to me. Squad 19 was likable, and I found some of the secondary characters, like Hinlee, Loxly, and Jodi, to be particularly endearing. The author clearly put a lot of thought into this world and its people.
I think this particular book would be especially compelling for readers who aren't expecting a standard romance formula and who like speculative slice-of-life stories with emotional drama, with a few physical fight scenes.
*I received a free e-ARC of the book. My opinions are my own.*
I'm not super well-read, but this was a book like nothing I've ever read before.
From the blurb, I was expecting a romance. (The POV characters are a beautiful, tormented, capable heroine and an alpha male captain.) But while there is attraction and affection between quite a few of the characters, the story doesn't conform to the romance formula. I also anticipated that it might be some kind of war story, but to me it felt more like a slice-of-life novel set in a futuristic military base. There are a few battles, but what I remembered most was the portrayal of everyday life on the base and the angst associated with complicated human interactions and relationships.
I found the world itself to be interesting; when people interacted with various forms of technology and an unfamiliar society, it felt real to me. Squad 19 was likable, and I found some of the secondary characters, like Hinlee, Loxly, and Jodi, to be particularly endearing. The author clearly put a lot of thought into this world and its people.
I think this particular book would be especially compelling for readers who aren't expecting a standard romance formula and who like speculative slice-of-life stories with emotional drama, with a few physical fight scenes.
*I received a free e-ARC of the book. My opinions are my own.*
July 23, 2023
Right from the beginning you are drawn into this dystopian tale. I loved Larken I could really put myself in her shoes for a number of reasons so she really caught my heart. Reading her story gave me a comfort in my own real life story. I loved the found family and relationships she had with each person and how special each relationship she has is. I loved the grumpy Commander oh my word loved him. There are definitely characters that get under your skin that's how well C.C writes. The slow burn attraction. You grow with the story she doesn't come out all at once with everything there are elements to he story woven throughout keeping you engaged and invested. The action scenes were intense I found myself literally on the edge of my seat holding my breath. I cannot wait to dive into book 2.
February 27, 2023
Alright, so, I really loved the story overall. It wasn't exactly my flavor of genre to enjoy, but the characters were very well written and the interactions as well!
It took some time getting used to the actual setting, but only because it wasn't my type of book to read! About halfway through, I really fell in love with the story regardless of the setting and was reading it nonstop to finish :)
I recommend it to anyone who loves a dystopian read with multiple characters in it, the author really has a way of writing them well when they are all interacting at once.
It took some time getting used to the actual setting, but only because it wasn't my type of book to read! About halfway through, I really fell in love with the story regardless of the setting and was reading it nonstop to finish :)
I recommend it to anyone who loves a dystopian read with multiple characters in it, the author really has a way of writing them well when they are all interacting at once.
January 9, 2023
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆.
𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔. 𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉.
Defender is a unique take to the Biblical story of Esther.
Instead of preparing our main character for a "beauty pageant", we are taken to a military facility where they train soldiers for the coming war.
We are also introduced to Squad 19. And let me just say, Loxly is such an interesting, funny, and coffee lover character. He must be protected at all costs! 🤣
This story is not fast paced, and focuses more on what is happening inside their camp. More like tranche de vie.
I was kinda expecting instant war scenes. First few chapters have fight scenes that I am looking for.
But still looking forward as to what will happen in the second book!
So for readers that are more interested with character based, found family, friendships, and romance, then this book is for you. 😊
Received a copy from the publisher but the review above are my honest opinion.
𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔. 𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒃𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉.
Defender is a unique take to the Biblical story of Esther.
Instead of preparing our main character for a "beauty pageant", we are taken to a military facility where they train soldiers for the coming war.
We are also introduced to Squad 19. And let me just say, Loxly is such an interesting, funny, and coffee lover character. He must be protected at all costs! 🤣
This story is not fast paced, and focuses more on what is happening inside their camp. More like tranche de vie.
I was kinda expecting instant war scenes. First few chapters have fight scenes that I am looking for.
But still looking forward as to what will happen in the second book!
So for readers that are more interested with character based, found family, friendships, and romance, then this book is for you. 😊
Received a copy from the publisher but the review above are my honest opinion.
July 7, 2022
I really did enjoy this story and I loved the found family Larkin found in squad 19. I loved watching Soren and Larken’s character arcs and enjoyed their growth.
I enjoyed the mysterious aspect to the story and all the little things that made me curious about why Larkin is being hunted and made me eager to keep turning pages.
I’m really looking forward to the rest of this series.
My cons for this are minor and I think once I get the rest of the series won’t be an issue.
I loved how character driven this story is and I have loved getting to know all these different characters, but I did miss out on feeling like there was plot in this book. Though I do think it’s just the beginning of a big plot that I believe I will throughly enjoy as a whole series. But this did bring my rating down for now. I would have like to have gotten more action and more information on why Larken is being hunted by these other groups and how they keep knowing exactly where she is all the time. (I have a couple suspicions).
I’m also not a huge fan of love triangles, though this one doesn’t seem too bad because I get the impression Larken is just being nice to one of them while she actually loves the other one. So, it’s not bad, but still not something I personally enjoy.
Overall, still a great book and I’m excited to see what this author does with the entire series.
I enjoyed the mysterious aspect to the story and all the little things that made me curious about why Larkin is being hunted and made me eager to keep turning pages.
I’m really looking forward to the rest of this series.
My cons for this are minor and I think once I get the rest of the series won’t be an issue.
I loved how character driven this story is and I have loved getting to know all these different characters, but I did miss out on feeling like there was plot in this book. Though I do think it’s just the beginning of a big plot that I believe I will throughly enjoy as a whole series. But this did bring my rating down for now. I would have like to have gotten more action and more information on why Larken is being hunted by these other groups and how they keep knowing exactly where she is all the time. (I have a couple suspicions).
I’m also not a huge fan of love triangles, though this one doesn’t seem too bad because I get the impression Larken is just being nice to one of them while she actually loves the other one. So, it’s not bad, but still not something I personally enjoy.
Overall, still a great book and I’m excited to see what this author does with the entire series.
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November 13, 2025Defender is a New Adult military dystopian novel perfect for fans of both Divergent and The Selection.
Though there are some high action scenes, one might describe the book as a “cozy” dystopian where the story focuses more on the characters and relationships in this first installment of the trilogy. Groundwork for the larger political scene is laid, however.
The book has a prominent love triangle. Other tropes include faith, starting over, and found family.
Though there are some high action scenes, one might describe the book as a “cozy” dystopian where the story focuses more on the characters and relationships in this first installment of the trilogy. Groundwork for the larger political scene is laid, however.
The book has a prominent love triangle. Other tropes include faith, starting over, and found family.
January 8, 2023
A fast-paced and driven read! I enjoyed Defender from the moment I started it. The world and characters suck you in and you don't want to say good-bye. If you're a fan of Divergent or The Aurora Cycle, this is a book for you!
May 10, 2023
Book Review 📚😎
Book: Defender
Author: @c.c.urie
Genre: Dystopian
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"You don’t let anyone tell you who you are. You go out there with your head high and show them that you aren’t someone who can be hidden away. You go out there and prove that you were born for this.” (Love this quote!)
*This epub copy of mine was given to me by the publisher @snowridgepress when I signed up for Defender's Review Tour that started last year and ended the 1st quarter of this year. This review is all mine and was supposed to be posted last February but I got so busy with work and life, hence this late posting because of finishing it late. 😅
ANYWAYS...ON TO THE REVIEW 🤩
As I always say, I love stories with strong female protagonists and Defender surely has that one with Larken. I love her strength, wit and endurance. Also fell in love with Squad 19. Their quarters remind me of the sitcom F.R.I.E.N.D.S. because it is always fun when they are all together. Jodi and Hinlee are my faves here, they both are an epitome of girl best friends. Also a Team Loxly here! Haha! 😍 Overall the story is light and enjoyable to read, love the fight scenes and training stuff and the sense of having a new found family but I was expecting more action packed and thrilling scenes. Hopefully we'll be seeing that in the next book. 😎🤩
P.S. Read this alongside its audiobook and it's a fun experience.
Book: Defender
Author: @c.c.urie
Genre: Dystopian
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"You don’t let anyone tell you who you are. You go out there with your head high and show them that you aren’t someone who can be hidden away. You go out there and prove that you were born for this.” (Love this quote!)
*This epub copy of mine was given to me by the publisher @snowridgepress when I signed up for Defender's Review Tour that started last year and ended the 1st quarter of this year. This review is all mine and was supposed to be posted last February but I got so busy with work and life, hence this late posting because of finishing it late. 😅
ANYWAYS...ON TO THE REVIEW 🤩
As I always say, I love stories with strong female protagonists and Defender surely has that one with Larken. I love her strength, wit and endurance. Also fell in love with Squad 19. Their quarters remind me of the sitcom F.R.I.E.N.D.S. because it is always fun when they are all together. Jodi and Hinlee are my faves here, they both are an epitome of girl best friends. Also a Team Loxly here! Haha! 😍 Overall the story is light and enjoyable to read, love the fight scenes and training stuff and the sense of having a new found family but I was expecting more action packed and thrilling scenes. Hopefully we'll be seeing that in the next book. 😎🤩
P.S. Read this alongside its audiobook and it's a fun experience.
August 24, 2023
Urie is a new-to-me author but I am sure this will not be the last of her books that I read. This sci fi book drew me in from the first page. While God is not mentioned as “God” there are many Biblical concepts shared in the story and the characters attend “temple.” There are several conflicts that are not resolved in the book and the book ends in a cliffhanger which left me hoping book 2 comes soon.
Larken comes from an elite family but has never felt loved. When she leaves to join the military there is an attempted kidnapping attempt. She and her mentor are rescued by the squad she will be joining. There are hints at romance as well as enough conflict to make this a page-turner. Once I was in the book, I couldn’t put it down.
Defender would make an excellent addition to a k-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for eighth grade and up.
I received a complimentary copy of Defender. This is my honest review.
Larken comes from an elite family but has never felt loved. When she leaves to join the military there is an attempted kidnapping attempt. She and her mentor are rescued by the squad she will be joining. There are hints at romance as well as enough conflict to make this a page-turner. Once I was in the book, I couldn’t put it down.
Defender would make an excellent addition to a k-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for eighth grade and up.
I received a complimentary copy of Defender. This is my honest review.
April 26, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. It reminded me of the “Selection” and “Divergent” Series. Definitely a 4.5 star read!
Larken and Soren getting to know each other was super sweet, and I loved the group's friend dynamic. The rival interest was an interesting character, and you’re not sure who to root for at this point. The characters are really likable, and everyone seems like they could be a real person that you would run into on the street.
I love the comparisons between Queen Esther and Larken and how the story mirrors that. At the end of the book, there are so many questions that still need to be answered, and I want to read the second book so badly! The thing about a book based on a theme is that I have ideas on how the story could go, but the author has the creative liberty to take the story any way they want!
This was a very enjoyable read, and I’m looking forward to the next installment.
Larken and Soren getting to know each other was super sweet, and I loved the group's friend dynamic. The rival interest was an interesting character, and you’re not sure who to root for at this point. The characters are really likable, and everyone seems like they could be a real person that you would run into on the street.
I love the comparisons between Queen Esther and Larken and how the story mirrors that. At the end of the book, there are so many questions that still need to be answered, and I want to read the second book so badly! The thing about a book based on a theme is that I have ideas on how the story could go, but the author has the creative liberty to take the story any way they want!
This was a very enjoyable read, and I’m looking forward to the next installment.
November 8, 2025
This was an interesting enjoyable Ya dystopia I’m actually intrigued and curious as to what will happen in the next two. Compared to other dystopia books that I’ve read this one seems pretty tame. There were some trigger warnings that actually had me a little bit worried, but I’m wondering if those trigger warnings are for the whole series and not just one individual book because those trigger warnings don’t seem extremely prominent. The only one that seems to be noticeable is the multiple plane crash one. I enjoyed the writing. I enjoyed the character development. I loved the interaction between the characters and the plot line went well not a ton of things happen in this book other than building up who the characters are and the type of world they’re in. I haven’t read the rest of the series yet, but I would recommend for those who like dystopia and even your teen would enjoy this dystopia would enjoy this one.
May 1, 2024
So many secrets
Why has Larkin’s family always been so cruel to her? Why does her brother’s friend suddenly wish to date her after years of disinterest? Why are enemy factions so focused on capturing her?
One can’t help falling in love with Larkin, her courage despite all her physical and emotional pain. How she loves children and animals, beautiful opera songs, and cooking for her crew mates— yet she is a champion warrior.
There are a few swoony men in Larkin’s life vying for her love. One wonders about her handsome mentor who is like her adoptive father. Then there is Soren… one can’t help but cheer each time he thaws a little more. Why is he afraid to trust?
This is a great start to a captivating series.
Why has Larkin’s family always been so cruel to her? Why does her brother’s friend suddenly wish to date her after years of disinterest? Why are enemy factions so focused on capturing her?
One can’t help falling in love with Larkin, her courage despite all her physical and emotional pain. How she loves children and animals, beautiful opera songs, and cooking for her crew mates— yet she is a champion warrior.
There are a few swoony men in Larkin’s life vying for her love. One wonders about her handsome mentor who is like her adoptive father. Then there is Soren… one can’t help but cheer each time he thaws a little more. Why is he afraid to trust?
This is a great start to a captivating series.
April 21, 2024
Wow. That was… I don’t know what to say.
I’m captivated. These characters have captured me. I laughed at their antics, I hurt with them, I felt what they felt.
This is a very character-driven story. The plot is set up a little bit with the attacks but mostly we are being introduced to the world and the characters. It’s got a dystopian feel but it’s really more sci-fi I think. If it’s classified as dystopian then it’s one of the best I’ve ever read. There’s hints of Hunger Games but this is WAY better.
I sense a lot more pain coming and I am afraid of who might die before this is all over. Also, I’m unashamedly Team Soren. I don’t usually get into things like that but this time I have to call it.
Recommended for 16+
I’m captivated. These characters have captured me. I laughed at their antics, I hurt with them, I felt what they felt.
This is a very character-driven story. The plot is set up a little bit with the attacks but mostly we are being introduced to the world and the characters. It’s got a dystopian feel but it’s really more sci-fi I think. If it’s classified as dystopian then it’s one of the best I’ve ever read. There’s hints of Hunger Games but this is WAY better.
I sense a lot more pain coming and I am afraid of who might die before this is all over. Also, I’m unashamedly Team Soren. I don’t usually get into things like that but this time I have to call it.
Recommended for 16+
August 18, 2023
The book was pretty good. It took me a while to fully understand what was happening, but once I did, I enjoyed reading it. There were some aspects of the book that were not my favorite, but at the end of the day, i would recommend it to someone else. The cliffhanger at the end definitely makes me want to read the next one in the series. I can't wait to find out what happens to the MC.
May 31, 2024
Captivating
Oh my goodness, such an amazing book! I found it difficult to put down. I really got drawn into each character and loved the bond they shared. My emotions were a complete roller coaster along with the story. The twists and turns of the story kept me rooted to my spot. I cannot wait to read the next book!
Oh my goodness, such an amazing book! I found it difficult to put down. I really got drawn into each character and loved the bond they shared. My emotions were a complete roller coaster along with the story. The twists and turns of the story kept me rooted to my spot. I cannot wait to read the next book!
October 22, 2025
Defender by C.C. Urie
Book 1 in The Divine Courage Trilogy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Before I get in to the review, I want to make a few things clear. There are trigger warnings in this novel for abuse, alcoholism, PTSD, war (training for war), and sexual innuendos. It is suitable for New Adults.
Defender is a dystopian Esther retelling with themes of forgiveness, letting go of the past, and trusting in God. The military heiress is shipped off to war training, where she discovers found family, love interests like her squad Captain, and secrets.
It is easy to get pulled into the individual stories of the characters, as well as the story that they are creating together. Did I mention it has a found family trope? Each person has their own childhood trauma that they are dealing with, but they encourage one another and create their own sense of family and purpose within their group.
Okay, now I want to talk about the romance!!! Ms. Larken Hale over here has most of the guys obsessing over her at the military base and she knows it. I appreciate C.C. Uriel’s use of the slow burn and forced proximity tropes. This is a great example of the enemies to reluctant friends to lovers trope. It is murky, like the reader is looking through a frosted glass window into the relationships. You don’t always know where they stand and what will happen next between them. I like that it kept me highly engaged. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good romance plot!!!
I gave this book 4 stars because I really did like it. It was interesting and most of the characters are likable. This book may be slow to some because there are not a lot of moving parts for a dystopian novel. However, it is part of a trilogy, so it is to be expected. I did wish that there were more training scenes though. Overall, I found that those “dislikes” were easily overlooked because this book is quite good in other aspects, like the occasional bursts of action and plot twists. I can’t wait to read the other two books in this trilogy!
Book 1 in The Divine Courage Trilogy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Before I get in to the review, I want to make a few things clear. There are trigger warnings in this novel for abuse, alcoholism, PTSD, war (training for war), and sexual innuendos. It is suitable for New Adults.
Defender is a dystopian Esther retelling with themes of forgiveness, letting go of the past, and trusting in God. The military heiress is shipped off to war training, where she discovers found family, love interests like her squad Captain, and secrets.
It is easy to get pulled into the individual stories of the characters, as well as the story that they are creating together. Did I mention it has a found family trope? Each person has their own childhood trauma that they are dealing with, but they encourage one another and create their own sense of family and purpose within their group.
Okay, now I want to talk about the romance!!! Ms. Larken Hale over here has most of the guys obsessing over her at the military base and she knows it. I appreciate C.C. Uriel’s use of the slow burn and forced proximity tropes. This is a great example of the enemies to reluctant friends to lovers trope. It is murky, like the reader is looking through a frosted glass window into the relationships. You don’t always know where they stand and what will happen next between them. I like that it kept me highly engaged. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good romance plot!!!
I gave this book 4 stars because I really did like it. It was interesting and most of the characters are likable. This book may be slow to some because there are not a lot of moving parts for a dystopian novel. However, it is part of a trilogy, so it is to be expected. I did wish that there were more training scenes though. Overall, I found that those “dislikes” were easily overlooked because this book is quite good in other aspects, like the occasional bursts of action and plot twists. I can’t wait to read the other two books in this trilogy!
November 6, 2025
This is a military dystopian story with hints of faith throughout. There wasn't a lot of action (though there was some) nor did this first book go into why there is a war or how it even started. Hopefully that will be answered in the following books. However, I really enjoyed the story! This book's focus seemed to be mainly on the interpersonal relationships of the characters and on character development. It ended on a cliffhanger and left me wanting to dive into book 2!
April 24, 2024
I was completely caught up in Larken and Soren's slow burn relationship. The other members of her found family are wonderful, too. But please note--this is not a complete story. It will totally leave you hanging and you'll immediately need books 2 and 3.
November 16, 2024
Wow! I just finished this book and I need the second one right this instant. I need answers! Not what I expected from this book but I really enjoyed it and will order the next two books in the series ASAP! I love all of the characters and the story they all had and make together. Very curious to see what happens next!
October 29, 2025
There are so many books that are hard to fall into. this isn't one of them. I started reading it and couldn't put it down for a full two hours and realized I had to adult. All of that went out the window three weeks later when I opened it again.
Soren and Larken better be end game because who even is Dominic. 😂 The opera scene feels like foreshadowing and Soren is the farm boy.
Larken had so many curve balls in her life and overcame them all with grace and resilience. She doesn't go completely internal and dwell, but more reflects and adjusts her aim.
I can't wait to pick up the second and third books and see how this ends. That said, book one DOES end on a cliff hanger and that was hard to deal with at 3am 😂.
Soren and Larken better be end game because who even is Dominic. 😂 The opera scene feels like foreshadowing and Soren is the farm boy.
Larken had so many curve balls in her life and overcame them all with grace and resilience. She doesn't go completely internal and dwell, but more reflects and adjusts her aim.
I can't wait to pick up the second and third books and see how this ends. That said, book one DOES end on a cliff hanger and that was hard to deal with at 3am 😂.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started this book. At first, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to finish because it took me a bit to get into it. I’m so glad I kept reading. I love how Larken found acceptance in an unexpected new family. It’s a real reminder your family isn’t always who you expect it to be.
I love a good slow burn and I found Soren to be such a relatable character. His hesitance and grumpiness made me love him more and more as the book went on. However, Vallen is also a dream because of his protective, quick to act persona.
Overall, I’m extremely glad I got the opportunity to read this book! The action left me wanting more and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I love a good slow burn and I found Soren to be such a relatable character. His hesitance and grumpiness made me love him more and more as the book went on. However, Vallen is also a dream because of his protective, quick to act persona.
Overall, I’m extremely glad I got the opportunity to read this book! The action left me wanting more and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
October 21, 2025
This is my second time doing an ARC read for C.C. Urie. And let me tell you, this did not disappoint!
This story took you into the middle of the action right away. I love the relationship between the MC and her mentor/father figure. The military team has such a well written dynamic that I find myself wanting to be part of the group.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the MC (although once again I see a little suffering of main character syndrome)(a tendency I found with Callie in 'Southern Charm'), I didn't find our male main character as interesting. He is almost too grumpy and too much along the sidelines; much of the banter between him female MC that is explained happens without the audience present.
I will tell you one thing I loved in full without any sort of complaint is the world itself. It was interesting without feeling too unfamiliar.
My biggest complaint is the cliffhanger!!!! That was cruel and unusual punishment madam author!!!
While individual characters themselves can be slightly lackluster and unable to stand on their own, the cast of characters altogether makes a story well worth the read! And I look forward to reading more.
This story took you into the middle of the action right away. I love the relationship between the MC and her mentor/father figure. The military team has such a well written dynamic that I find myself wanting to be part of the group.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the MC (although once again I see a little suffering of main character syndrome)(a tendency I found with Callie in 'Southern Charm'), I didn't find our male main character as interesting. He is almost too grumpy and too much along the sidelines; much of the banter between him female MC that is explained happens without the audience present.
I will tell you one thing I loved in full without any sort of complaint is the world itself. It was interesting without feeling too unfamiliar.
My biggest complaint is the cliffhanger!!!! That was cruel and unusual punishment madam author!!!
While individual characters themselves can be slightly lackluster and unable to stand on their own, the cast of characters altogether makes a story well worth the read! And I look forward to reading more.
January 12, 2023
I love dystopians, I love fantasies, I love action, and I really REALLY wanted to love this book. It felt like a cross between The Hunger Games and Divergent, both of which I have read over and over and over again.
To start with, the action here was great. The story started off running. But I felt like it started in the middle of a story that I should have known (this book is the first in the series). It felt like I couldn't quite catch up for a long time.
There were some things that seemed inconsistent to me. For example, Vallen was in charge of putting Larken in a squad and making sure all was copacetic, but then there was a possible transfer that he knew nothing about. Also, Larken supposedly didn't trust Dominic, but she kept agreeing to see him. And there was a war going on, but I don't have any idea why.
Another thing that bothered me, and this ties in to Dominic too, is that Larken kept leading him on and giving him mixed signals. And then when he tried to kiss her, she got mad. One of the quotes from that scene is "And even if I do keep changing my mind, who cares? You should respect my decisions!" No. You don't lead someone on like that and then get infuriated with him.
I did really enjoy the banter between the squad. I think that was written well. It was highly entertaining.
If you like fantasy, dystopian, YA, and/or action in your books, give this one a try. Don't take my word for it. This is just my opinion, and there are several 5 star ratings on Amazon, so go check it out. You may love it!
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book for my honest opinion.~
To start with, the action here was great. The story started off running. But I felt like it started in the middle of a story that I should have known (this book is the first in the series). It felt like I couldn't quite catch up for a long time.
There were some things that seemed inconsistent to me. For example, Vallen was in charge of putting Larken in a squad and making sure all was copacetic, but then there was a possible transfer that he knew nothing about. Also, Larken supposedly didn't trust Dominic, but she kept agreeing to see him. And there was a war going on, but I don't have any idea why.
Another thing that bothered me, and this ties in to Dominic too, is that Larken kept leading him on and giving him mixed signals. And then when he tried to kiss her, she got mad. One of the quotes from that scene is "And even if I do keep changing my mind, who cares? You should respect my decisions!" No. You don't lead someone on like that and then get infuriated with him.
I did really enjoy the banter between the squad. I think that was written well. It was highly entertaining.
If you like fantasy, dystopian, YA, and/or action in your books, give this one a try. Don't take my word for it. This is just my opinion, and there are several 5 star ratings on Amazon, so go check it out. You may love it!
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book for my honest opinion.~
November 10, 2025
This is my first ARC and first C.C. Urie read! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Urie took the time to develop the characters’ personalities and bring them to life. Larken and all of Squad 19 will capture your heart and leave you wanting more.
And speaking of wanting more, the cliffhanger at the end 😫 I was immediately ready to start book two. It was refreshing to read a book that has dystopian themes, but doesn’t come full of darkness and language.
I am looking forward to discovering more about the members of Squad 19 and how their world was thrown into war in the next two books.
And speaking of wanting more, the cliffhanger at the end 😫 I was immediately ready to start book two. It was refreshing to read a book that has dystopian themes, but doesn’t come full of darkness and language.
I am looking forward to discovering more about the members of Squad 19 and how their world was thrown into war in the next two books.
November 27, 2022
such a great start to a series!
C.C. Urie’s Defender is such a great read! It’s a story of found family, finding one’s self, and finding love. Larken Hale’s world is turned upside down when she joins Squad 19, but despite all the chaotic, life threatening moments, it’s better than ever before. This is one I’ll read again.
C.C. Urie’s Defender is such a great read! It’s a story of found family, finding one’s self, and finding love. Larken Hale’s world is turned upside down when she joins Squad 19, but despite all the chaotic, life threatening moments, it’s better than ever before. This is one I’ll read again.
November 27, 2022
Thrilling from beginning to end
Once again C.C. Iris spins a tale of fighting the odds, romance and learning who you are. Read as Larken Hale learns things and shows her own skills as she prepares for war.
Why does her family hate her? Why is she the one sent to join the military and will she ever feel at home or safe?
Once again C.C. Iris spins a tale of fighting the odds, romance and learning who you are. Read as Larken Hale learns things and shows her own skills as she prepares for war.
Why does her family hate her? Why is she the one sent to join the military and will she ever feel at home or safe?
January 13, 2023
Military Dystopian isn’t the genre I usually go for, but I really enjoyed Defender by @c.c.urie loved the characters! Loxly was my favorite. I love any story that deals with found family and finding a place to belong. And all the romance was fun too! That ending was brutal and now I definitely have to read book 2!
January 5, 2026
I'm usually not one for these types of books. but this one from chapter 1, all the way through I was hooked. I absolutely adored Larken and Soren's dynamic. I loved this book and would 100% read it again!
June 27, 2023
I personally didn't end up liking this book much. It looked like dystopia or sci-fi so I was expecting more action, but it only had a couple of brief fights that occurred. I saw it was a dystopian retelling of Esther, I love retellings cause I get to look for clues to how the story reflects it's original and I find that fun, but I couldn't see almost any way this was connected to the story of Esther at all besides her being sent somewhere outside of her will and having a person who is an uncle/father figure outside of her family?
I expected some romance based on the blurb. And some people will probably like the romance in this book but it's just not my thing. The MC Larken has 3 people she has crushes on but all she likes about any of them is physical things (except for maybe her childhood celebrity crush *shrug* maybe she likes him for his music or maybe its physical attraction too) Theres CONSTANTLY talk about physical attraction from both the MC and all sorts of people around her some objectifying her, some her liking people, some others liking her. (not inappropriately described. It's mostly implied comments. The most descriptive I can think of is her noticing the person who keeps trying to date her looks like he is mentally undressing her... and this relationship is incredibly confusing? She's not dating him, he wants to date her, she's going on dates with him, she doesn't like him, but she does like him physically and keeps staying in the relationship/not relationship tho she doesn't want to be in it and it's annoying. *sigh*) I can tolerate romance, though I don't prefer it. and do prefer slow-burn romance if it's gonna be in the book. But this was all just physical attraction and felt incredibly...weird the whole time. shes just physically attracted to 3 dif guys and this ends up being the whole book, her fantasizing about one guy and her being in a relationship with a guy she doesn't want to be with, etc instead of anything action, anything related to the dystopia world she's in, or any discovery about the few attacks that happen.
I honestly considered many times not finishing, but it's the only audiobook I had at the time and I just wanted something to listen to while doing some crafts and I kept hoping that the relationship stuff would get resolved and we'd get to some good stuff.
Cause I did like the characters, they were well-written and likable outside of the romance plot. I want to know about these things that are happening in their world that just got ignored the whole book. But idk if I have it in me to read the next book if it ends up just being a continuation of this romance...
Content: clean. No language, there are allusions to an attempted SA, and lots of guys are implied to be saying/thinking inappropriate things. There are a couple of mentions of kissing. The most sensual thing probably is a character putting lotion on other character who likes them.
I received a free copy of the audiobook for Defender. I was not required to leave a good review.
(The audiobook: the narration was good. I didn't like one of interpretations the narrator did for one of the voices much and it sometimes bothered me XD but it was otherwise good.)
I expected some romance based on the blurb. And some people will probably like the romance in this book but it's just not my thing. The MC Larken has 3 people she has crushes on but all she likes about any of them is physical things (except for maybe her childhood celebrity crush *shrug* maybe she likes him for his music or maybe its physical attraction too) Theres CONSTANTLY talk about physical attraction from both the MC and all sorts of people around her some objectifying her, some her liking people, some others liking her. (not inappropriately described. It's mostly implied comments. The most descriptive I can think of is her noticing the person who keeps trying to date her looks like he is mentally undressing her... and this relationship is incredibly confusing? She's not dating him, he wants to date her, she's going on dates with him, she doesn't like him, but she does like him physically and keeps staying in the relationship/not relationship tho she doesn't want to be in it and it's annoying. *sigh*) I can tolerate romance, though I don't prefer it. and do prefer slow-burn romance if it's gonna be in the book. But this was all just physical attraction and felt incredibly...weird the whole time. shes just physically attracted to 3 dif guys and this ends up being the whole book, her fantasizing about one guy and her being in a relationship with a guy she doesn't want to be with, etc instead of anything action, anything related to the dystopia world she's in, or any discovery about the few attacks that happen.
I honestly considered many times not finishing, but it's the only audiobook I had at the time and I just wanted something to listen to while doing some crafts and I kept hoping that the relationship stuff would get resolved and we'd get to some good stuff.
Cause I did like the characters, they were well-written and likable outside of the romance plot. I want to know about these things that are happening in their world that just got ignored the whole book. But idk if I have it in me to read the next book if it ends up just being a continuation of this romance...
Content: clean. No language, there are allusions to an attempted SA, and lots of guys are implied to be saying/thinking inappropriate things. There are a couple of mentions of kissing. The most sensual thing probably is a character putting lotion on other character who likes them.
I received a free copy of the audiobook for Defender. I was not required to leave a good review.
(The audiobook: the narration was good. I didn't like one of interpretations the narrator did for one of the voices much and it sometimes bothered me XD but it was otherwise good.)
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