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Sinners #1
Branded
Alternate cover edition, ISBN:9780989527415
Fifty years ago The Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society.
To punish the guilty, he created the Hole, a place where sinners are branded according to their sins. Sinners are forced to live a less than human existence in deplorable conditions, under the watchful eye of guards who are ready to kill anyone who steps out of line.
Now, LUST wraps around my neck like thick, blue fingers, threatening to choke the life out of me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit, and the Hole is my new home.
Constant darkness.
Brutal and savage violence.
Excruciating pain.
Every day is a fight for survival.
But I won’t let them win. I will not die in the Hole.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter. My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
Fifty years ago The Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society.
To punish the guilty, he created the Hole, a place where sinners are branded according to their sins. Sinners are forced to live a less than human existence in deplorable conditions, under the watchful eye of guards who are ready to kill anyone who steps out of line.
Now, LUST wraps around my neck like thick, blue fingers, threatening to choke the life out of me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit, and the Hole is my new home.
Constant darkness.
Brutal and savage violence.
Excruciating pain.
Every day is a fight for survival.
But I won’t let them win. I will not die in the Hole.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter. My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
384 pages, ebook
First published June 27, 2013
352 people are currently reading
2941 people want to read
About the author
Abi Ketner
5 books757 followersAbi Ketner Is a registered nurse with a passion for novels, the beaches of St. John, and her Philadelphia Phillies. A talented singer, Abi loves to go running, lifting and spend lots of time with her family. She currently resides in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with her husband, triplet daughters and one very spoiled dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,354 reviews
July 13, 2013
2.5 Stars. Sad Face :(
This book has SO MUCH PROMISE. The premise is awesome, and no matter how many YA dystopian I read, I love them all. So I was really excited to get this from Net Galley, especially after all of the raving reviews. But I feel like once I missed something that everyone else seemed to get. WHAT AM I NOT GETTING? This book started off strong and exciting but the appeal quickly turned to confusion and boredom for me.
One big problem was the characterization of both Lexi and Cole. Lexi enters page one trying to hang herself...literally has a rope wrapped around her neck, ready to jump. That's when the bad guys come to drag her off to the Hole to be branded with the brand of the sin of lust. Instead of completing her goal, she gets the urge to live and runs away...to no avail, of course. This is explained later as a will to be able to CHOOSE how she goes out, not to be forced into it. Okay, I can somewhat understand that. Now on her way to the Hole, she hardens herself and wants to maintain her dignity...these evil people will NOT get her down! And yet she proceeds to whine and simper and swoon and shake and cower and cringe at nearly everything that happens to her. Cole steps in as her guard/love interest, and good grief does he ever have his work cut out for him! Even so, Lexi proceeds to become a competent worker, then back to a helpless damsel in distress, running up the stairs alone when she should be staying put, openly defying her protectors and doing things she is forbidden to do, etc...She started becoming the idiot girl in a B movie, going into the dark stairway with nothing but a flashlight and her boobs to protect her. But...wait for it...by the end of the book, Lexi is a badass fighter girl who has only trained for a week but somehow becomes some kind of tactical expert. It was just wierd. I know I went on a bit here, but I'm just trying to get my point across. Who IS Lexi? Is she the lonely, desperate girl, the competent nurse, the stupid, helpless bimbo, or the badass fighter?
Cole also remained much a mystery throughout the story. Not only did not understand what he saw in Lexi, but I couldn't understand what she saw in him, either. There is no background info on him, no explanation of why he has chosen to hold to his morals. He's just there, and he's hot, and he doesn't try to rape Lexi. GIRL IS IN LOOOOOVE!!!!! After being with Cole for a couple of weeks, Lexi falls so desperately in love with him that she is destitute when he has to be gone for a few days...literally cannot function without him. And this is while she is a nurse in a hospital. I'm in nursing school myself...I say, bye bye Lexi, you weak willed little girl! No need to ignore your patients because your boyfriend is gone away working for a bit. Go back to junior high and try healing people when you've grown up a bit.
The last thing I'll mention is the timing of...well, basically everything. I'm still confused as to the actual time frame that everything happened in, but as far as I could tell, it all happened within a couple of months. Let me tell you, Lexi gets her ass handed to her a handful of times...they literally beat her unconscious more than once, and she sustains multiple head injuries during her short stay in the Hole. At one point, she has something like 26 STAPLES IN HER HEAD, which are taken out two days later. HUH?!?!?!?! Did I read that wrong? The doctor is telling her how he was picking bone fragments of her skull out of her head while he was stapling her, and mentions that she might have a concussion. Hahaha! I'd say that's a big ten four, good buddy...and I'd also advise you to keep those staples in her head for a wee bit longer, otherwise what's the point?
I'm done now. I know that once again, I'm in the vast minority with my opinion. I simply don't understand all the five star reviews, because I find the flaws in this book very obvious. I think the second book might still be on my radar, which I would never normally do when I had this many issues with a book. But I honestly feel as if the writing was just very juvenile and unpolished. I think the author had a fabulous idea and an amazing world to put her characters through. She doesn't hesitate to be brutal, and she's not overly loyal to her characters. That's definitely a positive point for me, because the book was somewhat unpredictable. But in the end, I didn't care much for either Lexi or Cole, because they never became real to me. Their characters were too wishy washy, and the melodrama was over the top by miles and miles. If there had been more introspection, maybe some insight into what makes each of them tick, what it is that draws them together, I'd feel more for them.
Arc provided by the publisher via Net Galley.
This book has SO MUCH PROMISE. The premise is awesome, and no matter how many YA dystopian I read, I love them all. So I was really excited to get this from Net Galley, especially after all of the raving reviews. But I feel like once I missed something that everyone else seemed to get. WHAT AM I NOT GETTING? This book started off strong and exciting but the appeal quickly turned to confusion and boredom for me.
One big problem was the characterization of both Lexi and Cole. Lexi enters page one trying to hang herself...literally has a rope wrapped around her neck, ready to jump. That's when the bad guys come to drag her off to the Hole to be branded with the brand of the sin of lust. Instead of completing her goal, she gets the urge to live and runs away...to no avail, of course. This is explained later as a will to be able to CHOOSE how she goes out, not to be forced into it. Okay, I can somewhat understand that. Now on her way to the Hole, she hardens herself and wants to maintain her dignity...these evil people will NOT get her down! And yet she proceeds to whine and simper and swoon and shake and cower and cringe at nearly everything that happens to her. Cole steps in as her guard/love interest, and good grief does he ever have his work cut out for him! Even so, Lexi proceeds to become a competent worker, then back to a helpless damsel in distress, running up the stairs alone when she should be staying put, openly defying her protectors and doing things she is forbidden to do, etc...She started becoming the idiot girl in a B movie, going into the dark stairway with nothing but a flashlight and her boobs to protect her. But...wait for it...by the end of the book, Lexi is a badass fighter girl who has only trained for a week but somehow becomes some kind of tactical expert. It was just wierd. I know I went on a bit here, but I'm just trying to get my point across. Who IS Lexi? Is she the lonely, desperate girl, the competent nurse, the stupid, helpless bimbo, or the badass fighter?
Cole also remained much a mystery throughout the story. Not only did not understand what he saw in Lexi, but I couldn't understand what she saw in him, either. There is no background info on him, no explanation of why he has chosen to hold to his morals. He's just there, and he's hot, and he doesn't try to rape Lexi. GIRL IS IN LOOOOOVE!!!!! After being with Cole for a couple of weeks, Lexi falls so desperately in love with him that she is destitute when he has to be gone for a few days...literally cannot function without him. And this is while she is a nurse in a hospital. I'm in nursing school myself...I say, bye bye Lexi, you weak willed little girl! No need to ignore your patients because your boyfriend is gone away working for a bit. Go back to junior high and try healing people when you've grown up a bit.
The last thing I'll mention is the timing of...well, basically everything. I'm still confused as to the actual time frame that everything happened in, but as far as I could tell, it all happened within a couple of months. Let me tell you, Lexi gets her ass handed to her a handful of times...they literally beat her unconscious more than once, and she sustains multiple head injuries during her short stay in the Hole. At one point, she has something like 26 STAPLES IN HER HEAD, which are taken out two days later. HUH?!?!?!?! Did I read that wrong? The doctor is telling her how he was picking bone fragments of her skull out of her head while he was stapling her, and mentions that she might have a concussion. Hahaha! I'd say that's a big ten four, good buddy...and I'd also advise you to keep those staples in her head for a wee bit longer, otherwise what's the point?
I'm done now. I know that once again, I'm in the vast minority with my opinion. I simply don't understand all the five star reviews, because I find the flaws in this book very obvious. I think the second book might still be on my radar, which I would never normally do when I had this many issues with a book. But I honestly feel as if the writing was just very juvenile and unpolished. I think the author had a fabulous idea and an amazing world to put her characters through. She doesn't hesitate to be brutal, and she's not overly loyal to her characters. That's definitely a positive point for me, because the book was somewhat unpredictable. But in the end, I didn't care much for either Lexi or Cole, because they never became real to me. Their characters were too wishy washy, and the melodrama was over the top by miles and miles. If there had been more introspection, maybe some insight into what makes each of them tick, what it is that draws them together, I'd feel more for them.
Arc provided by the publisher via Net Galley.
June 21, 2013
"I love you... I don't want you to ever question it. I'd give up my life for yours. That's how much I love you. Don't you dare ever doubt that."
WOW!!!
Fast paced, action-packed and emotionally charged, Branded is a phenomenal Dystopian debut with a forbidden romance that will capture your heart! A must-read of 2013!
The writing was strong, I fell in love with the characters and was totally wrapped up in the world. There was a swoon-worthy hero, a strong heroine, a forbidden romance (and I mean REALLY forbidden) and a super evil bad guy. Now, I don't normally read Dystopians but this one had me HOOKED!!!
In a society where Sinners of the seven deadly sins are branded and incarcerated, everyone's lives are always at risk. It didn't matter than Lexi was innocent and it made no difference what she said. She was accused, condemned and thrown into The Hole - a hellish, filthy, self-contained prison with no rules and no way out.
"I don't want to die, but at the same time, I wish I were dead."
She was assigned a guard - Cole. But there was more to him than met the eye. Something about him was different than all the other guards. Something in him was good. And, as she slowly acclimatizes to her new life in the Hole, they grew closer and closer.
But in the Hole, relations between Guards and Sinners is punishable by torture and death. It is final, it is brutal and it is the world they live in. But... they're still falling for each other. Hard.
"I never planned on falling for you. You were just an assignment. But it just sort of happened and now... There's not a single thing I would change about you. When you smile, my entire world stops. All I see is you. I need you."
I don't even know where to start with how much I loved this! It was a total change of pace for me because I never usually read Dystopian books. I mean, I read the Hunger Games, but that was it. I guess I just generally prefer books that focus more strongly on romance. But sometimes you want more than just a romance, you know? You want a bit of an adventure... something thrilling and different that'll sweep you away into another world and Branded delivered that.
It was a non-stop roller coaster ride. My emotions were all over the place. Fear. Disgust. Betrayal. Love. Swoon (yes, swoon is an emotion). Despair. Hope. It had my heart in knots and I loved every minute of it!
Now I know the story is classified as mature YA but let me tell you, it is gory, gruesome and gritty!! Certainly not for the faint of heart! I swear, there is this one flashback scene that I'm going to need therapy after reading!! But, that being said, that grittiness was so effective in pulling you right into the world. The world itself was gritty and you felt it.
I swooned pretty hard over Cole. In fact, let me take a minute here to shout this: I LOVE COLE!!!! The forbidden angle gave the romance such a thrill to it. You could see him fighting his feelings for her. Being so badass and protective of her. But there was so much more at stake than just their feelings. There were just so many layers dictating all of their actions as they lived under the constant fear of punishment by death simply for the crime of falling in love. Mess up and die. Fall in love and die.
"He takes my face into his hand, and reassures me. "So outside of these walls, we can't stand each other."
But you see their bond grow and it's scary because you're both rooting for their relationship and just terrified because you see first hand the consequences of a relationship between a Guard and Sinner. There was so much swoon and so much fear!
"The last thing I want is for you to be afraid of me. But I want you to trust me. I need you to trust me." He sighs and I hear the pain and confusion in his voice.
"Why?"
"I don't know why and it scares the hell out of me." He swallows hard...
Part of me screams for him to run for his own safety, but I don't want him to move. My heart begs... Please stay with me. Forever."
Lexi was a strong, wonderful heroine you couldn't help but sympathize with. She was a fighter at her heart but everything in her life just kept kicking her down. I loved seeing her strength grow over the course of the book.
"You won't break me if that's what you're worries about."
He walks over, places one arm around my back, and lifts me...
"After this, I'm not sure anyone could," he whispers."
Now, relationship-wise this book is YA in that there is no sex in it. But this is one of those stories where the connection between the hero/heroine is so strong that the descriptions of their actions doesn't need to be graphic for you to FEEL it. Like there's this scene, after a fight and he's just washing blood off her hand (not even something romantic per say) but ohhhhh myyyy God did it make my heart clench! Seriously. I FELT it.
"Shhh..." He grips me closer to his body and then softly whispers in my ear, "I'm about to kiss you, and once I start I won't be able to stop. Just thought I should warn you."
And this whole relationship is developing in the midst of a world with daily gun fights in the streets, explosions, rapes, murders, injustice and a world under the dictatorship of an evil Commander.
The book is not all dark and grit though. There were definitely happy moments that shone through the darkness showing that even in this pit of absolute despair, there were still people with good in their hearts! But holy hell!! There were also a few scenes that just rendered me speechless with how nightmarish they were! I loved that there was a bit of everything in this book though. The plot was full of twists and turns and was fast paced enough that you were always reading about something new and yet took it's time enough that you were able to develop a close connection to the characters.
And I just want to point out that Branded has THE awesomest dog EVER in it. His name is Zeus, he belongs to Cole (though he's pretty sure he belongs to Lexi) and I seriously adore him and could not review this book without sending him a shout out.
Don't forget though that this IS a dystopian. There's fighting, battles, rebellions, and a whole story outside of the romance but for those of you who are hard-core romance fans, Cole and Lexi's relationship will keep you turning the pages to find out what happens to them.
The ending is thankfully NOT a cliffhanger!! They were together and safe, for now at least. Their story is far from over but my heart can rest easy for now while I eagerly await book #2.
Fans of the Hunger Games absolutely MUST read this but know that, in my opinion, Branded knocks The Hunger Games out of the water!
Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki are an author power team to watch out for!
I can't wait for more from the Sinners series and to find out what happens next with Lexi and Cole!
"Just leave me," I whisper in his ear.
"Never."
Expected release: June 28, 2013.
Want to read the first chapter? Trust me, you'll be hooked too:
CASTING (see above and below):
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now, everyday is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
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April 20, 2015
5+++ AMAZING STARS!!!
What can I say about this book... I feel like anything I write isn’t going to do it justice. I read it 4 or 5 days ago and I’m STILL trying to come up with something good enough. I was blown away. Incredible, Phenomenal, Amazing... those are the first words that pop into my head! This is one of those books I will be recommending to anyone and everyone!
This is Lexi’s story.
The world is different now. Years ago, after WWV, the justice system was revamped by ‘The Commander.’ People no longer have trials, there is no ‘innocent until proven guilty.’ If you are accused, you are automatically a Sinner and placed in the Hole. It doesn’t matter if it’s true or not, thats just the way it is.
Once at the Hole, you get Branded. It is a painful process. You will forever be identified by your sin.
At what point do they believe what’s been branded on their skin instead of just knowing who they are inside?
The Commander is under the impression that these seven sins lead to the destruction of civilization, so if you are accused of one, you are branded that color. Lexi is branded blue. She is wrongfully accused, but she doesn’t stand up for herself. Would it matter if she did? Probably not. She has her reasons for not fighting...
The Hole had to be better than the hell she was already living in. ⿒
Each of the Sinners are assigned a guard. It is the guards responsibility to make sure the Sinner stays in line, gets to work and back etc. Having a guard doesn’t mean much in the Hole. People die every day.
Lexi’s guards name is Cole.
Cole is amazing. If Lexi had any other guard besides Cole, she would be doomed. Cole figures out pretty quickly that Lexi is different than most of the other Sinners. Cole is most definitely different than other guards. He shows that pretty quickly with how he treats Lexi, and the things he does for her (Alyssa ♥). They start to fall for one another. But it’s not safe for either one. Relationships between Sinners and guards have severe punishment. Torture. Death. The feelings they have for one another are scary.
The consequences of them being together could be dire.
It’s official. Cole stole my heart. There is just something about this guy, he had me swooning like no other. He was protective of Lexi from the beginning. The things that came out of his mouth...
Lexi is one of the toughest heroines I have ever come across. She has been through so much in her life, yet she still is able to survive, to love, to help. She is a courageous. She is a survivor.
The relationship between Cole and Lexi was a big part of the book, but there was another part just as big. There is a war going on. The people of the Hole are fighting back. There is destruction, violence, etc. This is not a happy story. It can be down right gruesome at times, but its also very beautiful. Lexi has a choice to make. For her- the choice is easy. If Lexi has any chance of getting free, of being with Cole, she has to fight.
There were so many twists and turns at the end, some things I really didn’t see coming. I had so much going on the day I read this, but every thing else went on hold. I couldn’t stop reading once I picked this up, and you won’t be able to either. The ending wasn’t a cliffhanger, but I am still very anxious to read the second installment!
This is by far one of the best books I have read this year. It’s one of those books... 5 stars is just not enough! It was emotional, moving, powerful, and just all around a great read. The writing was fantastic. It has love/romance, some violence, suspense, it’s a dark read, but it also had some moments that were completely heartwarming. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoyed ‘The Hunger Games’, but personally, I feel that this was MUCH BETTER than ‘The Hunger Games.’ I can’t believe this is a debut novel. Lexi and Cole’s story touched my heart. The next book can’t come out soon enough. This book is to be released on June 28th, 2013 and I would recommend EVERYONE pick it up and read it! It was that good!
**ARC provided by authors via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
What can I say about this book... I feel like anything I write isn’t going to do it justice. I read it 4 or 5 days ago and I’m STILL trying to come up with something good enough. I was blown away. Incredible, Phenomenal, Amazing... those are the first words that pop into my head! This is one of those books I will be recommending to anyone and everyone!
This is Lexi’s story.
The world is different now. Years ago, after WWV, the justice system was revamped by ‘The Commander.’ People no longer have trials, there is no ‘innocent until proven guilty.’ If you are accused, you are automatically a Sinner and placed in the Hole. It doesn’t matter if it’s true or not, thats just the way it is.
Once at the Hole, you get Branded. It is a painful process. You will forever be identified by your sin.
At what point do they believe what’s been branded on their skin instead of just knowing who they are inside?
The Commander is under the impression that these seven sins lead to the destruction of civilization, so if you are accused of one, you are branded that color. Lexi is branded blue. She is wrongfully accused, but she doesn’t stand up for herself. Would it matter if she did? Probably not. She has her reasons for not fighting...
The Hole had to be better than the hell she was already living in. ⿒
Each of the Sinners are assigned a guard. It is the guards responsibility to make sure the Sinner stays in line, gets to work and back etc. Having a guard doesn’t mean much in the Hole. People die every day.
Lexi’s guards name is Cole.
Cole is amazing. If Lexi had any other guard besides Cole, she would be doomed. Cole figures out pretty quickly that Lexi is different than most of the other Sinners. Cole is most definitely different than other guards. He shows that pretty quickly with how he treats Lexi, and the things he does for her (Alyssa ♥). They start to fall for one another. But it’s not safe for either one. Relationships between Sinners and guards have severe punishment. Torture. Death. The feelings they have for one another are scary.
The consequences of them being together could be dire.
“I never planned on falling for you. You were just an assignment. But it just sort of happened and now look where I am. Stuck between two walls that won’t budge either way. I’m trapped by you and my obligations as a guard.”
It’s official. Cole stole my heart. There is just something about this guy, he had me swooning like no other. He was protective of Lexi from the beginning. The things that came out of his mouth...
“You showed me what it’s like to really care about a person for the first time in my life, and now that I have you, I’m not going to let you go.”
Lexi is one of the toughest heroines I have ever come across. She has been through so much in her life, yet she still is able to survive, to love, to help. She is a courageous. She is a survivor.
Whatever the cost, I’ll fight. This is as ready as I’ll ever be.
The relationship between Cole and Lexi was a big part of the book, but there was another part just as big. There is a war going on. The people of the Hole are fighting back. There is destruction, violence, etc. This is not a happy story. It can be down right gruesome at times, but its also very beautiful. Lexi has a choice to make. For her- the choice is easy. If Lexi has any chance of getting free, of being with Cole, she has to fight.
There were so many twists and turns at the end, some things I really didn’t see coming. I had so much going on the day I read this, but every thing else went on hold. I couldn’t stop reading once I picked this up, and you won’t be able to either. The ending wasn’t a cliffhanger, but I am still very anxious to read the second installment!
This is by far one of the best books I have read this year. It’s one of those books... 5 stars is just not enough! It was emotional, moving, powerful, and just all around a great read. The writing was fantastic. It has love/romance, some violence, suspense, it’s a dark read, but it also had some moments that were completely heartwarming. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoyed ‘The Hunger Games’, but personally, I feel that this was MUCH BETTER than ‘The Hunger Games.’ I can’t believe this is a debut novel. Lexi and Cole’s story touched my heart. The next book can’t come out soon enough. This book is to be released on June 28th, 2013 and I would recommend EVERYONE pick it up and read it! It was that good!
**ARC provided by authors via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
June 29, 2013
✰★✰ 4.5 STARS. ✰★✰
Branded tells the story of a young girl named Lexi Hamilton. In a future world, the world as it is after World War V, all,the power is in the hands of a cruel, sadistic leader, aka The Commander. People who commit one of the seven deadly sins are branded according to the sin they've commited and exiled to The Hole. A horrible place where there's no form of luxury and barely a scratch of humanity left. There the "Sinners" have to work under the command of their powerful leader.
As soon as Lexi arrives at the Hole she is assigned her own, personal guard Cole.
His job is to make sure she follows the Commander's orders, gets at work on time every day and that she doesn't cause any trouble. Even though Cole technically works for Lexi's number one enemy, he seems different than most of the other guards. He's kinder, more understanding and doesn't treat her like the sinner she's made out to be. Slowly but surely, Lexi and Cole grow closer but they both know relationships betweens sinners and their guard are strictly forbidden. So, they try to keep their distance as much as possible.
In the meantime, Lexi tries to adjust to the harsh new reality of the hell hole she now lives in. And even though, the Commander has taken away her free choice and personal belongings, she's determined not to let him crush her spirit and soul.
"I was abandoned, neglected, starved, betrayed and abused. I've already been treated like the scum of the earth, so the Hole is nothing new. He wants to erase every sign of my existence on this earth, but I won't let that happen. He can strip me naked, but he'll never reach my soul. It's personal, completely personal."
All she wants is to be free again...
And therefore, she's willing to fight, fight the corrupt system that puts innocent people away, treats them like they're less worthy and disrobes them of their humanity. Together with the few people she can trust, she tries to make to best of her new living situations, all the while remembering her fathers mantra:
And while the living conditions in the Hole aren't all that great, some of the people and even a certain hilarious and loyal dog named Zeus, living there, more than make up for it (although there are plenty of others that try to make Lexi's life even more miserable).
At first, when I started reading this story, it remined me a little of the Hunger Games. And since I'm a big fan of that series, I immediatly knew I was going to like it. It had the same intriguing, dystopian vibe but as the story progressed, it turned out to be a so much more than just a Hunger Games-like novel. It had it's own unique storyline and characters that kept me hooked from the start. The last final chapters were nerve-wrecking and emotional but luckily there was NO cliffhanger.
I really enjoyed this captivating, action-filled and, at times, sweet story and would highly recommend it to anyone who's a fan of dystopian novels (and even if you're not a fan of the genre, I'd still recommend it because of the powerful message this story tells, that I think will appeal to many readers).
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
***ARC courtesy of the authors via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
"To the outside, I'm filth now. I'll never be allowed to return to the life I knew. No one ever does."
Branded tells the story of a young girl named Lexi Hamilton. In a future world, the world as it is after World War V, all,the power is in the hands of a cruel, sadistic leader, aka The Commander. People who commit one of the seven deadly sins are branded according to the sin they've commited and exiled to The Hole. A horrible place where there's no form of luxury and barely a scratch of humanity left. There the "Sinners" have to work under the command of their powerful leader.
"Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I've been accused of a crime I didn't commit and now the Hole is my new home."
As soon as Lexi arrives at the Hole she is assigned her own, personal guard Cole.
His job is to make sure she follows the Commander's orders, gets at work on time every day and that she doesn't cause any trouble. Even though Cole technically works for Lexi's number one enemy, he seems different than most of the other guards. He's kinder, more understanding and doesn't treat her like the sinner she's made out to be. Slowly but surely, Lexi and Cole grow closer but they both know relationships betweens sinners and their guard are strictly forbidden. So, they try to keep their distance as much as possible.
In the meantime, Lexi tries to adjust to the harsh new reality of the hell hole she now lives in. And even though, the Commander has taken away her free choice and personal belongings, she's determined not to let him crush her spirit and soul.
"I was abandoned, neglected, starved, betrayed and abused. I've already been treated like the scum of the earth, so the Hole is nothing new. He wants to erase every sign of my existence on this earth, but I won't let that happen. He can strip me naked, but he'll never reach my soul. It's personal, completely personal."
All she wants is to be free again...
And therefore, she's willing to fight, fight the corrupt system that puts innocent people away, treats them like they're less worthy and disrobes them of their humanity. Together with the few people she can trust, she tries to make to best of her new living situations, all the while remembering her fathers mantra:
"You can overcome anything...short of death."
And while the living conditions in the Hole aren't all that great, some of the people and even a certain hilarious and loyal dog named Zeus, living there, more than make up for it (although there are plenty of others that try to make Lexi's life even more miserable).
"Everything about you sucks me in. No matter how hard I try to hate you or be disgusted, the opposite happens. You're like my magnet. You pull me in, but when I get to close it takes everything I have to remain at a safe distantie."
At first, when I started reading this story, it remined me a little of the Hunger Games. And since I'm a big fan of that series, I immediatly knew I was going to like it. It had the same intriguing, dystopian vibe but as the story progressed, it turned out to be a so much more than just a Hunger Games-like novel. It had it's own unique storyline and characters that kept me hooked from the start. The last final chapters were nerve-wrecking and emotional but luckily there was NO cliffhanger.
I really enjoyed this captivating, action-filled and, at times, sweet story and would highly recommend it to anyone who's a fan of dystopian novels (and even if you're not a fan of the genre, I'd still recommend it because of the powerful message this story tells, that I think will appeal to many readers).
"Most of all, I wish for peace. If I survive this, all I want is to live with Cole and to live in peace for the rest of my life, knowing I made the right choice."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
***ARC courtesy of the authors via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
July 21, 2013
4 Sins & Sinners Stars
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now, everyday is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
In a world ravaged by Wars, a new society has emerged and a madman whose sadistic view of humanity rules the people with an iron fist. The Commander is now in power by murdering anyone that stands in his way. Justice is a thing of the past and the people are no longer equal. There is the Upper Society and there is the Hole. Where the Sinners are forced to live and die.
"I think dying is easier compared to living here.”
Accused of crimes and actions they might have never committed, branded like animals and imprisoned in the worst prison to kill or be killed, starve and driven insane. Die of a simple infection and beg for a small piece of bread. No respect, no dignity, no future. They were found guilty of the 7 Deadly Sins and this is their penance.
Lust ~ Gluttony ~ Greed ~ Sloth ~ Wrath ~ Envy ~ Pride
A young woman on the verge of ending her life, stands on the brink of sanity. Abused and despaired she is sentenced to the hole, a sinner of lust. Forced to her limits, she will either break or she will find deep in the darkest places of her soul, the power to fight back and make a stand for herself, her late a father, a small child and love, that is found in the least possible places.
"Be strong for the times ahead. Stand up for those who cannot. And remember, you can overcome anything short of death."
Lexi & Cole, a Sinner and a Guard, two young people will rise above themselves. They will sacrifice everything and through blood and tears, they will try to set the world free. Hoping that they will manage to survive the battle and finally will be allowed to be together.
"Without you, I’m already dead, and each day I get to be with you is one more day we didn’t have yesterday."
Gritty, emotional, intense, heartbreaking and ultimately thought-provoking, this book gripped me from the first word and never let me go. Suspenseful and hopelessly romantic, brutally honest and almost angry, a highly recommended story not only for dystopian fans but for all book lovers. The authors pull no punches. Feelings and ugly truths are not implied but laid bare before your eyes, engaging all your senses.
Strong writing, believable characters, amazing world building and a forbidden love that transcends its physical limitations and is expressed by a stolen glance and hidden caress.
Kudos for a book well-done!
**ARC courtesy of Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Thank you for an amazing read! Can't wait for the next... More Lexi, Cole, Sin & Sinners, Fighters and Philosophers and a world that needs to stand up against injustice.
I NEED THE 2nd BOOK!
*Pre-ARC thoughts and feelings:
Oooh...
Best blurb nomination!!!
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now, everyday is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
In a world ravaged by Wars, a new society has emerged and a madman whose sadistic view of humanity rules the people with an iron fist. The Commander is now in power by murdering anyone that stands in his way. Justice is a thing of the past and the people are no longer equal. There is the Upper Society and there is the Hole. Where the Sinners are forced to live and die.
"I think dying is easier compared to living here.”
Accused of crimes and actions they might have never committed, branded like animals and imprisoned in the worst prison to kill or be killed, starve and driven insane. Die of a simple infection and beg for a small piece of bread. No respect, no dignity, no future. They were found guilty of the 7 Deadly Sins and this is their penance.
Lust ~ Gluttony ~ Greed ~ Sloth ~ Wrath ~ Envy ~ Pride
A young woman on the verge of ending her life, stands on the brink of sanity. Abused and despaired she is sentenced to the hole, a sinner of lust. Forced to her limits, she will either break or she will find deep in the darkest places of her soul, the power to fight back and make a stand for herself, her late a father, a small child and love, that is found in the least possible places.
"Be strong for the times ahead. Stand up for those who cannot. And remember, you can overcome anything short of death."
Lexi & Cole, a Sinner and a Guard, two young people will rise above themselves. They will sacrifice everything and through blood and tears, they will try to set the world free. Hoping that they will manage to survive the battle and finally will be allowed to be together.
"Without you, I’m already dead, and each day I get to be with you is one more day we didn’t have yesterday."
Gritty, emotional, intense, heartbreaking and ultimately thought-provoking, this book gripped me from the first word and never let me go. Suspenseful and hopelessly romantic, brutally honest and almost angry, a highly recommended story not only for dystopian fans but for all book lovers. The authors pull no punches. Feelings and ugly truths are not implied but laid bare before your eyes, engaging all your senses.
Strong writing, believable characters, amazing world building and a forbidden love that transcends its physical limitations and is expressed by a stolen glance and hidden caress.
Kudos for a book well-done!
**ARC courtesy of Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Thank you for an amazing read! Can't wait for the next... More Lexi, Cole, Sin & Sinners, Fighters and Philosophers and a world that needs to stand up against injustice.
I NEED THE 2nd BOOK!
*Pre-ARC thoughts and feelings:
Oooh...
Best blurb nomination!!!
June 10, 2013
"You Can Over Come Anything
Short of Death"
Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki have written a brilliant Dystopian story that takes the reader on a journey that is terrifying, gruesome, violent, and heartwrenching. Through all of this horror and heartache, there is a love that grows between a guard and a "Sinner and the odds are stacked against them. Can love survive in a world that knows very little peace, or will it fizzle away in the midst of all the chaos.
This story captured my attention from the first page, all the way through to the very last. At times it was so hard to read through all of the suffering that took place in "The Hole", but there was a nice balance between the violence and the love of Lexi and Cole. Another wonderful addition and ray of sunlight was the guard dog, Zeus. That dog was impossible not to love, and he added humor to a somewhat somber story.
The story takes place in "The Hole." This is a place that is surrounded by twenty foot cement walls and is basically a prison with no rules. The people that are sent there have supposedly broke some kind of laws in "high society" and they are called "The Sinners." They do not get a court hearing,and once they are taken into the Hole they will never come out. The Hole is run by the Commander; and interestingly enough his identity is not known to anyone. He has a firm belief that there is no forgiveness for the sinners, and he rules with a steel fist which no one wants to cross. The guards that work for him, are ones that no one is allowed to befriend, and the penalty of falling in love with one is a gruesome death.
The sinner becomes "Branded" with a metal collar that tightens and burns there skin with the sin they are being accused of. ( Blue-Lust; Orange-Gluttony; Yellow-Greed; Black-Sloth; Red-Wrath; Green-Envy; Purple-Pride.)
Lexi Hamilton is branded with Blue (for lust) and her guard is a young man named Cole. These two live in close quarters, and he also takes her to and from the hospital each day where Lexi has to work. These two end up very close, and the bond that they share becomes stronger as they begin to trust one another. Lexi has endured unimaginable events in her lifetime, and Cole eventually becomes extremely protective of her. In the midst of war and violence their love blossoms, and is a beautiful reminder of what a person might want to live for. This is eventually what drives them to survive in this destructive place, and to strive for something better in the future.
Along the way, other friendships are formed, and huge revelations as well. There is just so much going on in this story, that there is never a dull moment. In fact, there are secrets that continue to be revealed right up until the very end.
If I could rate higher than five stars, I would. There was a point in the story where I actually had goose bumps with what was happening. I laughed, I cried, and I was surprised, this book was an incredible journey of what a person will endure in the name of survival. Also, no matter how hopeless a situation may seem, there is always hope that things can and will get better.
The writing from the authors is top quality and they have made a new fan with me. I will for sure be following their stories in the future, as I feel they have an extremely successful career ahead of them if they keep writing the way they did with this book.
Thank you to the authors and net galley for providing me with the ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review.
Short of Death"
Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki have written a brilliant Dystopian story that takes the reader on a journey that is terrifying, gruesome, violent, and heartwrenching. Through all of this horror and heartache, there is a love that grows between a guard and a "Sinner and the odds are stacked against them. Can love survive in a world that knows very little peace, or will it fizzle away in the midst of all the chaos.
This story captured my attention from the first page, all the way through to the very last. At times it was so hard to read through all of the suffering that took place in "The Hole", but there was a nice balance between the violence and the love of Lexi and Cole. Another wonderful addition and ray of sunlight was the guard dog, Zeus. That dog was impossible not to love, and he added humor to a somewhat somber story.
The story takes place in "The Hole." This is a place that is surrounded by twenty foot cement walls and is basically a prison with no rules. The people that are sent there have supposedly broke some kind of laws in "high society" and they are called "The Sinners." They do not get a court hearing,and once they are taken into the Hole they will never come out. The Hole is run by the Commander; and interestingly enough his identity is not known to anyone. He has a firm belief that there is no forgiveness for the sinners, and he rules with a steel fist which no one wants to cross. The guards that work for him, are ones that no one is allowed to befriend, and the penalty of falling in love with one is a gruesome death.
The sinner becomes "Branded" with a metal collar that tightens and burns there skin with the sin they are being accused of. ( Blue-Lust; Orange-Gluttony; Yellow-Greed; Black-Sloth; Red-Wrath; Green-Envy; Purple-Pride.)
Lexi Hamilton is branded with Blue (for lust) and her guard is a young man named Cole. These two live in close quarters, and he also takes her to and from the hospital each day where Lexi has to work. These two end up very close, and the bond that they share becomes stronger as they begin to trust one another. Lexi has endured unimaginable events in her lifetime, and Cole eventually becomes extremely protective of her. In the midst of war and violence their love blossoms, and is a beautiful reminder of what a person might want to live for. This is eventually what drives them to survive in this destructive place, and to strive for something better in the future.
Along the way, other friendships are formed, and huge revelations as well. There is just so much going on in this story, that there is never a dull moment. In fact, there are secrets that continue to be revealed right up until the very end.
If I could rate higher than five stars, I would. There was a point in the story where I actually had goose bumps with what was happening. I laughed, I cried, and I was surprised, this book was an incredible journey of what a person will endure in the name of survival. Also, no matter how hopeless a situation may seem, there is always hope that things can and will get better.
The writing from the authors is top quality and they have made a new fan with me. I will for sure be following their stories in the future, as I feel they have an extremely successful career ahead of them if they keep writing the way they did with this book.
Thank you to the authors and net galley for providing me with the ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2016
I read this because Abookutopia channel recommended it and I'll tell you I'm not dissapointed.
Cole and Lexi are great together and you'll love Zeus, best pet character ever!
Update: There will be a harcover edition and I can't wait for it.
The concept is great, the romance is great, and I thought this was a little bit more adult than other YA dystopians. I love the evolution of Lexi. She started the book vomiting, screaming and being just a girl and over the book she evolved to be a real heroine.
Cole was so dreamy! I like the way he changed from being an asshat to really love and be there for Lexi.
Is this book perfect? No, by any means. This is a book that you read if you want to have fun and be entertained.
I approve so does Dylan.
Cole and Lexi are great together and you'll love Zeus, best pet character ever!
Update: There will be a harcover edition and I can't wait for it.
The concept is great, the romance is great, and I thought this was a little bit more adult than other YA dystopians. I love the evolution of Lexi. She started the book vomiting, screaming and being just a girl and over the book she evolved to be a real heroine.
Cole was so dreamy! I like the way he changed from being an asshat to really love and be there for Lexi.
Is this book perfect? No, by any means. This is a book that you read if you want to have fun and be entertained.
I approve so does Dylan.
August 18, 2015
With its very original dystopian setting and fascinating storyline, I had hoped Branded would be better than it turned out. Unfortunately, this story did not work for me.
Lexi Hamilton has been branded a sinner for all to see around her neck. Lust is her sin, even though she is innocent of her crime. She’s been sent to the Hole, where all the sinners go to live the rest of their lives. The Hole has now become Lexi’s own personal hell and home. The Commander created the Hole when he came into power fifty years ago. In his crazy mind, he thinks the seven deadly sins are to blame for the downfall of society. So, once a person is accused of one of the sins, there is no judge or jury, the final judgment is guilt. The Hole is a dirty, ugly, and violent place where the sinners must work the job they’re assigned or be punished. Most of the sinners have lost their humanity over time in a harsh world where it takes smarts and strength to survive.
Lexi was assigned to a guard named Cole the moment she arrived. Cole is not like the rest of the guards, who can be just as terrifying and dangerous as the sinners. Something about him is good. He hasn’t been tainted by the Hole yet and still believes in humanity. But he’s still been led astray by the Commander, judging the sinners by the brand they wear. The more he’s around Lexi, the more he starts to see her as an innocent person and not someone whose been branded as a whore. And the more time they spend together, the closer they grow. Eventually they confess their feelings for one another, even though they know it's forbidden. And, if found out, they would be tortured and killed. This doesn’t stop them from falling for each other. But in order to be together, they must survive the Hole and fight for their freedom.
Sounds pretty darn good right? And, it does start out good. I was enthralled and excited, at first. But by the second half of the story (or sooner), that's when the story fell apart.
One of the main issues I had with this story is that the romance happened too fast. The feelings were rushed. The authors could’ve convinced me that these two fell in love so quickly if there was better build up and development. Instead, it was a bad case of insta-love. Falling in love quickly can work, if it’s well written. This is a dreaded case of "telling not showing." I wanted to understand and feel what they were feeling, but I never felt impacted by this forbidden relationship.
My next issue is the character development. It wasn't consistent. Everything changed once they confessed their affections to each other. I didn’t feel like I was reading the same characters anymore, especially with Cole. I thought Cole turned into a pathetic love sick puppy, and Lexi was leading him around by a leash. I was completely appalled by how much Cole tolerated from Lexi. I wanted the tough and strong Cole back that I met in the beginning. And, while Lexi kept trying to remain strong during the story, which is admirable because of everything she’s endured, her actions contradicted her words. She came across as weak and immature, especially when she didn't stand up for herself when she had the chance to show how strong she really is. I didn't feel like there was much character growth with her.
The pacing slowed down for me by the second half, then the ending felt rushed and unbelievable. The dialogue was immature and there were a lot of details about the story that felt unrealistic and were explained badly. I almost gave up but I kept reading with the hopes the story would get better. It never did and left me feeling frustrated and annoyed. I've decided not to continue the series.
Rating: D+
Heat: Sweet
-- A Review
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December 21, 2013
2 1/2 stars
I have so many conflicting feelings about this. On one hand, I love the concept and it was an easy book to get through. On the other, I couldn’t stop thinking about things that bothered me that took away from the overall enjoyment of the book.
It all begins with Lexi Hamilton; she has just been branded a sinner. She now wears a blue brand signifying her alleged sin of lust on her neck. In her world, anyone who is accused of one of the seven deadly sins is sent to the Hole. There is no trial, no ‘innocent until proven guilty’; an accusation is all it takes. Sinners are assigned jobs and live on whatever they make from that task. Corruption, poverty and crime run rampant among sinners and guards of the Hole.
Once Lexi arrives at the Hole, she is assigned a job at the hospital and also given a guard. Cole lives in a room connected to hers, escorts her to and from work, and protects her from other sinners (and guards). Due to the color of Lexi’s brand, that makes her a huge target.
Not long passes before lines become blurred between Cole and Lexi. It is strictly forbidden for guards and sinners to be together and have a relationship. It is a crime punishable by death. Instead of treating Lexi like a whore or servant like many of the other corrupt guards in the Hole, Cole treats Lexi with respect. He protects her, doesn’t take advantage of her, and even helps her when asked. These are things that look very bad in the eyes of the Commander.
Their feelings for each other progress very quickly and it’s not long before they are completely lost to one another.
I had a real issue taking Cole and Lexi seriously together. I really thought I was going to love Cole as a character. I wanted to learn more about him, but that never happens. Here’s what I can tell you about Cole now that I’ve finished this book… He’s hot, he is a good guard, he has a dog (who’s pretty awesome – love Zeus!), and he loves Lexi. That just isn’t enough for me. He seemed tough and fair, but I wanted him to have more depth. Where is the development? What is his story? He just suddenly shifts to this almost lovesick puppy dog. I’m all for swoon, but it just didn’t feel right. It wasn’t realistic for things to happen as quickly as they did and I couldn’t tell why they were in love with each other. This was definitely a case of telling versus showing. Then the cheesy dialogue... I just couldn’t take it seriously anymore.
Seriously?! Way to quote a country singer there Cole. I honestly was thinking that was going to be a cute, silly moment where they were going to tease each other or something. But nope. Totally serious. O.o
Lexi as a heroine was confounding and often times just plain irritating. I have to admit that she’s a strong girl, and by that I mean, she’s still living after all she has endured in her life (both inside and outside of the Hole). She just did not work as a narrator though; she is constantly saying how strong she is, but then acting the complete opposite way. Her constant crying, tantrums, throwing up (lol), and cheesy inner monologues about Cole got to be so often that I just couldn’t feel for her like I wanted. And I trust me, I really did want to, what she goes through is AWFUL, some of the worst things imaginable. Yet, I just didn't like her. Her transformation throughout the book also felt inconsistent and her decisions sometimes made me want to slap some sense into her.
After finishing this, I am just so confused. I kind of feel like... What am I missing? What am I not seeing that everyone else did? I wanted so badly to love this one and was so excited about it. I still think the concept is awesome and really intriguing, ultimately though the writing was chopping and the dialogue juvenile at times. I just think more time needed to be spent on the development of the characters, their relationships, and even on building the world. The last 10-15% of this book I really think should have been in the second. I loved the twists, but then things ended up feeling too easy. While there are loose threads, it ends at a point where I would feel fine with ending it there and not having another book. Even with my complaints, I didn’t have a hard time getting through this book. It goes by pretty fast and there was enough going on to keep my attention, just maybe with some eye rolling along the way…
I have so many conflicting feelings about this. On one hand, I love the concept and it was an easy book to get through. On the other, I couldn’t stop thinking about things that bothered me that took away from the overall enjoyment of the book.
It all begins with Lexi Hamilton; she has just been branded a sinner. She now wears a blue brand signifying her alleged sin of lust on her neck. In her world, anyone who is accused of one of the seven deadly sins is sent to the Hole. There is no trial, no ‘innocent until proven guilty’; an accusation is all it takes. Sinners are assigned jobs and live on whatever they make from that task. Corruption, poverty and crime run rampant among sinners and guards of the Hole.
To the outside, I’m filth now. I’ll never be allowed to return to the life I knew. No one ever does.
Once Lexi arrives at the Hole, she is assigned a job at the hospital and also given a guard. Cole lives in a room connected to hers, escorts her to and from work, and protects her from other sinners (and guards). Due to the color of Lexi’s brand, that makes her a huge target.
“Skank! We know you’re in there,” says a screechy voice.
“Slut! Open the door,” says a second voice.
“We’ve been dreaming about touching you all night… We promise to be gentle.” They laugh.
Not long passes before lines become blurred between Cole and Lexi. It is strictly forbidden for guards and sinners to be together and have a relationship. It is a crime punishable by death. Instead of treating Lexi like a whore or servant like many of the other corrupt guards in the Hole, Cole treats Lexi with respect. He protects her, doesn’t take advantage of her, and even helps her when asked. These are things that look very bad in the eyes of the Commander.
“The last thing I want is for you to be afraid of me. But I want you to trust me. I need you to trust me.” He sighs and I hear the pain and confusion in his voice.
“Why?”
“I don’t know why and it scares the hell out of me.” He swallows hard and then scratches the back of his head while biting his lower lip. Part of me screams for him to run for his own safety, yet I don’t want him to move. My heart begs… Please stay with me. Forever.
“I hate when you leave, and that scares me too.”
Their feelings for each other progress very quickly and it’s not long before they are completely lost to one another.
“There’s nothing I can do to change who I am, what I’ve been labeled.”
“You’re amazing just the way you are. There’s not a single thing I would change about you. When you smile my entire world stops. All I see is you. I need you.” My head shakes back and forth, willing his words away. If he keeps this up, I don’t know if my promise to Sutton will stick.
“No, you don’t. You have to stop.”
“I wish I knew how.”
I had a real issue taking Cole and Lexi seriously together. I really thought I was going to love Cole as a character. I wanted to learn more about him, but that never happens. Here’s what I can tell you about Cole now that I’ve finished this book… He’s hot, he is a good guard, he has a dog (who’s pretty awesome – love Zeus!), and he loves Lexi. That just isn’t enough for me. He seemed tough and fair, but I wanted him to have more depth. Where is the development? What is his story? He just suddenly shifts to this almost lovesick puppy dog. I’m all for swoon, but it just didn’t feel right. It wasn’t realistic for things to happen as quickly as they did and I couldn’t tell why they were in love with each other. This was definitely a case of telling versus showing. Then the cheesy dialogue... I just couldn’t take it seriously anymore.
But I can’t deny how I feel toward Cole. Nothing and no one could ever compare to him. All I can think about are his honest brown eyes, the scar on his lip, and the intense expression when he kisses me that sucks me in like a vacuum. I feel drunk on him—just crazy about his face, his hands, and his body. Too crazy.
…
“Babe, let’s take it slow. I don’t want to move too fast… I don’t just want to make love. I want to make our love last.”
Seriously?! Way to quote a country singer there Cole. I honestly was thinking that was going to be a cute, silly moment where they were going to tease each other or something. But nope. Totally serious. O.o
Lexi as a heroine was confounding and often times just plain irritating. I have to admit that she’s a strong girl, and by that I mean, she’s still living after all she has endured in her life (both inside and outside of the Hole). She just did not work as a narrator though; she is constantly saying how strong she is, but then acting the complete opposite way. Her constant crying, tantrums, throwing up (lol), and cheesy inner monologues about Cole got to be so often that I just couldn’t feel for her like I wanted. And I trust me, I really did want to, what she goes through is AWFUL, some of the worst things imaginable. Yet, I just didn't like her. Her transformation throughout the book also felt inconsistent and her decisions sometimes made me want to slap some sense into her.
After finishing this, I am just so confused. I kind of feel like... What am I missing? What am I not seeing that everyone else did? I wanted so badly to love this one and was so excited about it. I still think the concept is awesome and really intriguing, ultimately though the writing was chopping and the dialogue juvenile at times. I just think more time needed to be spent on the development of the characters, their relationships, and even on building the world. The last 10-15% of this book I really think should have been in the second. I loved the twists, but then things ended up feeling too easy. While there are loose threads, it ends at a point where I would feel fine with ending it there and not having another book. Even with my complaints, I didn’t have a hard time getting through this book. It goes by pretty fast and there was enough going on to keep my attention, just maybe with some eye rolling along the way…
June 26, 2013
Never did I imagine they’d come for me. Never did I imagine all those nights I heard them dragging someone else away that I’d join them.
Casting:
Branded was fast paced, raw and gritty, with a heart wrenching romance and a captivating story. One of my absolute favorites of this year!
It’s post WWV, where the privileged live in fear of being accused and the unlucky one’s fight for their life in the Hole.
With a twisted, unyielding Commander as their leader, those who oppose him are murdered and the sinners are sent to the Hole where they can be contained.
He controls our depraved society and believes sinners make the human race unforgivable. His power is a crushing fist, rendering all beneath him helpless. So much so, even family members turn on each other when an accusation surfaces. Just an accusation. No trial, no evidence, nothing but an accusation.
Lexi has been accused so, she is sent to the Hole with LUST wrapped around her neck. In the Hole she finds violence, rapes, and death awaiting her but she’s stronger than all that. She’s a survivor.
He thinks he can destroy me by stripping away my possessions. But he can’t and I won’t let them take my memories, my ambition, and my pride.
I have a soft stop for Dystopian books but Branded completely exceeded my expectations. There was a forbidden romance that had my stomach in knots (and I mean forbidden, like Eve eating the apple forbidden) and a wonderful storyline.
They’re chosen from a young age and trained in combat. They kept order of society by using violent methods of intimidation. No one befriends a guard. Relationships with them are forbidden inside the Hole.
But even with the romance, there was an actual story too. I loved that I was equally enthralled with the romance as I was with the storyline. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming and I was kept at the edge of my seat the whole time.
He can strip me naked, but he’ll never reach my soul.
Lexi is one of the strongest, most courageous characters I've read about and definitely makes it to my favorites. I’m pretty sure I have a girl crush on her, that’s how much I liked her. I loved her drive and determination, her ability to help others, and the way she held on to her humanity in one of the darkest places.
Every day, I witness the ugliness of humanity and it diminishes my faith in the goodness of people.
And then there was Cole, who had me stuck in a permanent swoon.
“I’ll fight for us because nothing else brings me joy except loving you,” he whispers in my ear.
Holy hotness, that man has my heart, body, and soul. Right from the beginning you could tell he was different.
“The last thing I want is for you to be afraid of me. But I want you to trust me. I need you to trust me.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know why and it scares the hell out of me.”
He wasn’t as mean, cold, wraped and absolutely repulsive as the other guards. You could see that he had a heart.
“Just leave me,” I whisper into his ear.
“Never.”
Even with it being forbidden, Cole and Lexi’s relationship was beautiful. Not everything was filled with death and despair and they were able to escape into each other, whether it was with some steamy lip locking or bantering around.
“I love you,” I say.
He’s breathing faster, leaning into me, kissing my forehead, my temples, and my cheeks. He runs his lips down to my ear and whispers. “I love you too.”
I understand that this story isn’t for everybody because, despite it being YA, there were some gritty, dark, and gruesome scenes that had me cringing.
However, I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants and steamy romance, unpredictable turns, and an action packed story.
Be strong for the times ahead. Stand up for those who cannot. And remember, you can overcome anything short of death.
**ARC courtesy of Victory Editing via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review**
Read
May 16, 2016DNF @ 20%
before I start reviewing this book I want to say thank to my kind friend Veronica who answered my question about this book, but I'm sorry to let you down :(
There are seven deadly sins :
Pride > Purple Envy > Green
Wrath > Red Sloth > Black
Greed >Yellow Lust > Blue
Gluttony > Orange
if you are accused then you will be brought to The Hole, where all the sinners live and where you will be branded by the color of your sin on your neck.
All of the sinners have a job and every sinners have a guard. The guards responsibilty are to make sure the sinners they guarded are alive and to escort them to go to work and to their rooms after working.
Why did I give up ?
Ok here's the reason :
I don't want to spoil anything about this book to you but maybe I'm just gonna give a very light spoiler.
when Lexi (our Heroine) goes back from working, there is something happen with Lexi and Cole (our Hero). So Lexi and Cole have to run to save their lifes. but when Lexi runs her ankle gets twisted or something so she just stops running and sit on the ground while their enemies chasing them.
I was like " are you serious!?!?!?! I know your ankle is twisted but at least run for your life don't just do that!"
then Cole have to carry her, But when they climb up a fence, surprisingly she can climbs too and she can walks again.
this book is my first New Adult book and I've waited to read it for months and I had a very high expectation but I didn't get what I wanted and I just couldn't continue reading it anymore.
So, guys if you have any recommendations about Dark romance (not erotica) NA books, don't hesitate to tell me because I'd love to get recommendations about NA books :D
Thank you for reading my short review!! Have A great day!!
P.S. Thanks again, Veronica!!
before I start reviewing this book I want to say thank to my kind friend Veronica who answered my question about this book, but I'm sorry to let you down :(
There are seven deadly sins :
Pride > Purple Envy > Green
Wrath > Red Sloth > Black
Greed >Yellow Lust > Blue
Gluttony > Orange
if you are accused then you will be brought to The Hole, where all the sinners live and where you will be branded by the color of your sin on your neck.
All of the sinners have a job and every sinners have a guard. The guards responsibilty are to make sure the sinners they guarded are alive and to escort them to go to work and to their rooms after working.
Why did I give up ?
Ok here's the reason :
I don't want to spoil anything about this book to you but maybe I'm just gonna give a very light spoiler.
when Lexi (our Heroine) goes back from working, there is something happen with Lexi and Cole (our Hero). So Lexi and Cole have to run to save their lifes. but when Lexi runs her ankle gets twisted or something so she just stops running and sit on the ground while their enemies chasing them.
I was like " are you serious!?!?!?! I know your ankle is twisted but at least run for your life don't just do that!"
then Cole have to carry her, But when they climb up a fence, surprisingly she can climbs too and she can walks again.
this book is my first New Adult book and I've waited to read it for months and I had a very high expectation but I didn't get what I wanted and I just couldn't continue reading it anymore.
So, guys if you have any recommendations about Dark romance (not erotica) NA books, don't hesitate to tell me because I'd love to get recommendations about NA books :D
Thank you for reading my short review!! Have A great day!!
P.S. Thanks again, Veronica!!
February 10, 2017
I liked the emotional first half of the book. But after promising introduction into this story I was a little bit disappointed with the second half which lacked element of surprise or twists that would keep me on my toes.
My Lexi and Cole:
In Branded, after World War V, country is ruled by Commander who sends all "sinners" into The Hole as a way of keeping society "pure". All sinners are guarded by Guards of Commander and relationship of any form between sinner and guard is strictly forbidden. There is no trial, no evidence gathering. Accused sinners are sent to the Hole right away. And that is exactly the case of Lexi Hamilton - accused of sin, branded with sign symbolising a sin she supposedly committed and sent to the Hole with no real chance for survival. Her only chance may be Cole, the guard assigned to watch her. Byt why and for what cost?
Cole was a tough guy. Strong, fearless, focused, well-trained and loyal. Brought up as a guard, he did not have much choice how to live his life but he always tried to make the best out of it. When I got to know him better through out the book, I was completely enraptured by his character. If I was judging this book based on Cole, I would rate it with 5 stars because he deserves all stars in the world. Yeah, he was that awesome!
Lexi's life was turned up side down. Living in unhuman conditions, witnessing terrible things and being on her own unable to protect herself in the most dangerouns place on earth. Yeah, her life was not ideal at all and she was very weak. But she never lost hope for better life and always kept going no matter what.
Branded is about the will to keep fighting for the good cause, about need to survive and maintain some sort of humanity at the same time. The beginning of this book was very emotional for me. It deals with various human's destinies and none of them is easy or overjoyed.
Unfortunatelly, I had a big problem with characters development. Their feelings evolved and changed rapidly without proper background information or building up. The change came all of the sudden and it left me confused on more than one occasion. Moreover, Lexi was very weak character. She transformed from admirable person to girl who was unable to stand up for herself. I know she had to endure pretty horrible stuff but she was feisty when it came to strangers but when it came to her feeling, she was weak and it annoyed me a lot. And I am not even going to talk about many unbelievable and unrealistic details that kind of frustrated me through out the whole book.
The blurb of this book immediatelly caught my attention, so when I received a review copy I did not hesitate to dive into it. I really liked the world authors created in this book. But after captivating start, the ending was rushed and left me a little bit bitter and indiferrent...
*ARC received via Netgalley as an exchange for honest review*
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG
My Lexi and Cole:
In Branded, after World War V, country is ruled by Commander who sends all "sinners" into The Hole as a way of keeping society "pure". All sinners are guarded by Guards of Commander and relationship of any form between sinner and guard is strictly forbidden. There is no trial, no evidence gathering. Accused sinners are sent to the Hole right away. And that is exactly the case of Lexi Hamilton - accused of sin, branded with sign symbolising a sin she supposedly committed and sent to the Hole with no real chance for survival. Her only chance may be Cole, the guard assigned to watch her. Byt why and for what cost?
Cole was a tough guy. Strong, fearless, focused, well-trained and loyal. Brought up as a guard, he did not have much choice how to live his life but he always tried to make the best out of it. When I got to know him better through out the book, I was completely enraptured by his character. If I was judging this book based on Cole, I would rate it with 5 stars because he deserves all stars in the world. Yeah, he was that awesome!
Lexi's life was turned up side down. Living in unhuman conditions, witnessing terrible things and being on her own unable to protect herself in the most dangerouns place on earth. Yeah, her life was not ideal at all and she was very weak. But she never lost hope for better life and always kept going no matter what.
"You can overcome anything...shorth of death.
Branded is about the will to keep fighting for the good cause, about need to survive and maintain some sort of humanity at the same time. The beginning of this book was very emotional for me. It deals with various human's destinies and none of them is easy or overjoyed.
Unfortunatelly, I had a big problem with characters development. Their feelings evolved and changed rapidly without proper background information or building up. The change came all of the sudden and it left me confused on more than one occasion. Moreover, Lexi was very weak character. She transformed from admirable person to girl who was unable to stand up for herself. I know she had to endure pretty horrible stuff but she was feisty when it came to strangers but when it came to her feeling, she was weak and it annoyed me a lot. And I am not even going to talk about many unbelievable and unrealistic details that kind of frustrated me through out the whole book.
The blurb of this book immediatelly caught my attention, so when I received a review copy I did not hesitate to dive into it. I really liked the world authors created in this book. But after captivating start, the ending was rushed and left me a little bit bitter and indiferrent...
*ARC received via Netgalley as an exchange for honest review*
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG
August 20, 2016
2.5-3 stars!
Note: The book has recently been updated with a new cover and has brand new chapters (extra 70 pages).
When I first read this book last summer, I thought it was flawless – I especially loved that the story gave me a total escapism feeling. As time goes by, I’ve noticed that my tastes change (like a lot) and I become more jaded & critical. I just want to point out that this review is not very trustworthy – the first time reading I gave this book 5 stars. Now almost a year later it barely scrapes a satisfactory rating. This is going to sound harsh but I personally didn’t see the difference between the old version and the updated one I just finished reading.
Lexi lives in a dystopian world where everything is governed by the Commander, and if accused of one of the seven deadly sins, that person is immediately thrown into the Hole, a wretched, cursed place where slave labor and worse basically happen. In Lexi’s unfortunate case, she was wrongfully accused of lust, one of the worst sins to be branded with, and is assigned to Cole, the hero of the book and Lexi’s new guard.
Cole becomes Lexi’s guard and has orders to protect her – according to Lexi and others he has a very appealing physical form and is the best of the best out of all the guards. The only crime worse than being branded with one of the seven sins is for a Guard to fall in love with a Sinner, and that is precisely what happens in this story.
Before I get all critical, I do want to point out that it’s tough to balance both dystopian and romance. Those two themes shouldn’t even be in the same sentence as they’re polar opposites so I do applaud the authors for being daring and bold.
For me though, this book weighed more on the romance side than dystopian, and I felt like a lot of the character interactions were childish, unbelievable, or annoying.
- From the start I had this feeling like there were exceptions made for Lexi: she just had to get the nice and hot guard Cole, she just had to meet the kind Dr. Sutton, she just had to be instrumental in the revolt, etc…I mean this is freaking dystopian society we’re talking about here! I need to feel like Lexi is just like any other branded Sinner not just some girl who got an easy pass because she’s the heroine and deserves an HEA.
- Cole is a guard? Aside from the uniform, you could’ve fooled me. The VERY first moment he sees her he gives her a “pained look.” Why is he, a GUARD, sympathizing with her??? And on first sight too? This guy is just too good to be true and in any other setting (like contemporary for instance) I would’ve adored him. Truly, I would’ve but since this isn’t, at least try to make his character convincing before he falls for Lexi!
I feel myself getting ranty now so I’m going to stop because it makes me sad that a book I adored last year ends up receiving a rant this year. The book premise is awesome, but the writing felt a little immature and as for the story, well...suffice it to say I liked it but didn’t love it – a very bumpy ride.
Copy provided by the authors via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Note: The book has recently been updated with a new cover and has brand new chapters (extra 70 pages).
When I first read this book last summer, I thought it was flawless – I especially loved that the story gave me a total escapism feeling. As time goes by, I’ve noticed that my tastes change (like a lot) and I become more jaded & critical. I just want to point out that this review is not very trustworthy – the first time reading I gave this book 5 stars. Now almost a year later it barely scrapes a satisfactory rating. This is going to sound harsh but I personally didn’t see the difference between the old version and the updated one I just finished reading.
Lexi lives in a dystopian world where everything is governed by the Commander, and if accused of one of the seven deadly sins, that person is immediately thrown into the Hole, a wretched, cursed place where slave labor and worse basically happen. In Lexi’s unfortunate case, she was wrongfully accused of lust, one of the worst sins to be branded with, and is assigned to Cole, the hero of the book and Lexi’s new guard.
Cole becomes Lexi’s guard and has orders to protect her – according to Lexi and others he has a very appealing physical form and is the best of the best out of all the guards. The only crime worse than being branded with one of the seven sins is for a Guard to fall in love with a Sinner, and that is precisely what happens in this story.
Before I get all critical, I do want to point out that it’s tough to balance both dystopian and romance. Those two themes shouldn’t even be in the same sentence as they’re polar opposites so I do applaud the authors for being daring and bold.
For me though, this book weighed more on the romance side than dystopian, and I felt like a lot of the character interactions were childish, unbelievable, or annoying.
- From the start I had this feeling like there were exceptions made for Lexi: she just had to get the nice and hot guard Cole, she just had to meet the kind Dr. Sutton, she just had to be instrumental in the revolt, etc…I mean this is freaking dystopian society we’re talking about here! I need to feel like Lexi is just like any other branded Sinner not just some girl who got an easy pass because she’s the heroine and deserves an HEA.
- Cole is a guard? Aside from the uniform, you could’ve fooled me. The VERY first moment he sees her he gives her a “pained look.” Why is he, a GUARD, sympathizing with her??? And on first sight too? This guy is just too good to be true and in any other setting (like contemporary for instance) I would’ve adored him. Truly, I would’ve but since this isn’t, at least try to make his character convincing before he falls for Lexi!
I feel myself getting ranty now so I’m going to stop because it makes me sad that a book I adored last year ends up receiving a rant this year. The book premise is awesome, but the writing felt a little immature and as for the story, well...suffice it to say I liked it but didn’t love it – a very bumpy ride.
Copy provided by the authors via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2013
Dear readers, I did not like Branded by Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki. Not in the least. When I first read the book blurb, I got excited. A dystopian novel set in an ultra-religious society where people are imprisoned for violating the seven deadly sins, a main character falsely accused and imprisoned for lust, a conflicted guard mysteriously assigned to keep her alive at all costs, and a smidge of star-crossed love thrown in to boot. Sounds great, sign me up! Turns out my initial excitement was completely unfounded.
First off, the authors barely scratch the surface of this dystopian society at all. The world-building outside of the prison for sinners, known as the Hole, was nonexistent. Even the world-building of the Hole itself was only bare-bones minimum. No explanation for why the seven deadly sins replaced the rule of law or what role religion plays in society, no reasons given for the Hole operating in the convoluted way that it does. I could go on, but for the sake of both your precious time and mine, I won’t.
The dialogue felt unrealistic and best, and like speechifying at worst. Every so often there was a sentence so nonsensical that it would rip me out of the story and make me stare at the page in bewilderment. On top of this, none of the characters rang true. Not even the dog. The characterization was either one-dimensional or inconsistent. The authors sacrificed any sort of interiority in favor of plot and/or romance. (It was mostly romance).
As for any emotions, the authors decided to tell the reader rather than show us any evidence of, well, anything. Lexi says she’s falling in love with Cole. Great! Show me, please. Lexi says the Hole is stripping away her human dignity? How awful! But where’s the evidence? Show me how this is happening!
All of the above is forgivable. After all, Branded is a self-published, debut novel. Finishing a novel, no matter what people think of it, is a commendable achievement. I probably would have rated Branded two stars if it were not for one thing that got me completely incensed. You see, people in The Hole are assigned to different jobs. They have no say in their assignment. If they do not show up for their job, they are put to death. One of the jobs assigned to women is that of a prostitute. So we’ve got women being forced into the role of a prostitute - into having sex for money. This is non-consensual sex tantamount to rape. It would be one thing if this idea was explored with some degree of sensitivity, yet these women are all portrayed as sex-hungry sluts. It’s hard for me to believe that two women wrote this into a book.
So, do I recommend this book? No. Not in the least. I read it so you, dear readers, don’t have to. One star. ‘F’ for fail. Hopefully I’ll have better luck next time.
You can read this review (and others) at
March 4, 2013
BRANDED HAS RUINED ME FROM ALL BOOKS!!!!
OH. MY. GOD.
That was AMAZING!!!!
It was written so well. The story was beautifully constructed throughout the book. There is action, romance and gut-wrenching moments. It was one hell of a roller coaster ride . One I enjoyed so much. There were so many feels. I felt like my heart will leap out of chest and jump into my trembling hands. (My hands weren't trembling mind you but that was how hard the feels where, they were eagerly scrolling down to devour more words). It was a roller coaster ride that I want to keep waiting in the line for and going back on again and again. I would still be feeling the same as I did when I first read it.
Lexi Hamilton has one hell of a story to tell. She has been wrongfully branded for a crime, a sin she didn't commit. I wouldn't wish what happened to her on anyone. It was horrific.
I got to read this story pre-edited so when it all done, I will post my favourite quotes. The dialogues, the action and the mystery of what will happen is going to keep you at the edge of your seat until you come to the end and feel numb and wanting for more. There were so many feels that my heart couldn't take more and went numb (I love and devour books like that, this is one book you need to keep your eyes wide open for).
It was on hell of a FEEL fest. So when its out this is a book you need to BUY and READ right away!
OH. MY. GOD.
That was AMAZING!!!!
It was written so well. The story was beautifully constructed throughout the book. There is action, romance and gut-wrenching moments. It was one hell of a roller coaster ride . One I enjoyed so much. There were so many feels. I felt like my heart will leap out of chest and jump into my trembling hands. (My hands weren't trembling mind you but that was how hard the feels where, they were eagerly scrolling down to devour more words). It was a roller coaster ride that I want to keep waiting in the line for and going back on again and again. I would still be feeling the same as I did when I first read it.
Lexi Hamilton has one hell of a story to tell. She has been wrongfully branded for a crime, a sin she didn't commit. I wouldn't wish what happened to her on anyone. It was horrific.
I got to read this story pre-edited so when it all done, I will post my favourite quotes. The dialogues, the action and the mystery of what will happen is going to keep you at the edge of your seat until you come to the end and feel numb and wanting for more. There were so many feels that my heart couldn't take more and went numb (I love and devour books like that, this is one book you need to keep your eyes wide open for).
It was on hell of a FEEL fest. So when its out this is a book you need to BUY and READ right away!
August 18, 2015
Stopped reading at about 60% and skimmed rest.
Interesting premise, however the execution was awful. It went from 'we just met' to 'I love you' in about 5 pages. The dialogue was extremely juvenile, and there was very little 'show' and a whole lot of 'tell'. Not for me at all. Very disappointed.
**I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review**
Interesting premise, however the execution was awful. It went from 'we just met' to 'I love you' in about 5 pages. The dialogue was extremely juvenile, and there was very little 'show' and a whole lot of 'tell'. Not for me at all. Very disappointed.
**I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review**
July 3, 2014
Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and murdered all who opposed him. In his warped mind, the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society. He created the Hole where sinners are branded according to their sins and might survive a few years. At best.
Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home.
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
The blurb sounded great and considering it has a four star rating on both Amazon and 카지노싸이트 I decided to give it a shot. And at first I believed it was as good as all those reviewers told me it was going to be. The story takes place in a dystopian future where criminals are branded “sinners”, marked with a tattoo (different colors for different sins) and sent to live in a prison/slum like place called the Hole. In the Hole sinners are watched by the guards who regularly abuse and kill them, all with the approval of the Commander who has been running the country as a dictatorship for fifty years. There is no judicial system, no trials, and no ‘innocent until proven guilty’. There is “High Society” where the regular people live and there is the Hole where people accused of the seven deadly sins end up after they are accused.
The book starts out with Lexi, a woman from High Society attempting suicide. She fails and is taken into custody by the guards. She is accused of the sin of lust and is branded with a blue band around her neck and sent to the Hole. Once there she is assigned to a Guard named Cole, whose job it is to escort her to work and keep her in line. He has an adjoining room to hers (convenient) and he is the person who explains how the Hole works and what is expected of her as its newest resident.
I have to stop here, because seriously, the story gets a bit convoluted and at this point and it will be easier to break down where things start to go wrong for me.
1.) The big plot twists in the book are obvious from the get-go and it is written in first person which makes for an awkward and very limited narrative. As readers we only know what Lexi knows, and to be honest it isn’t much.
2.) Though the Hole is described as Hell and a basically lawless place where Sinners are abused and executed willy-nilly, Lexi is assigned her own Guard who seems like a nice guy and tells her again and again he has orders to protect her. Huh? She doesn’t question why she has special treatment and that her life is better than all those around her. This got more annoying as the story wore on.
3.) It’s pretty obvious from the beginning that Cole and Lexi are destined to fall in love. The problem is that the authors do much more telling than showing in their relationship. I never felt any kind of connection between them other than the characters telling each other how they feel.
4.) Of course love between a Sinner and a Guard is FORBIDDEN. Early in the book Lexi and Cole witness an execution of a couple for this reason. However there are Sinners who are prostitutes and the Guards are allowed to have sex with them. Say what now? So sex for money and favors between the two is okay, but true love is outlawed. And if you fall in love you are executed. What if a Guard fell in love with a prostitute?! I found myself confused over the whole thing.
5.) Lexi is assigned to work at the only hospital in the Hole, although she has no medical training whatsoever. It’s okay though, because we don’t ever really find out what she does there anyway, aside from stepping over puddles of puke and folding linens. There are several times I balked at the lack of medical knowledge displayed in this book.
6.) Oh the misogyny! This book wouldn’t be complete without the added fun of hating women and women hating on each other. Lexi is branded for the sin of lust even though we know she is innocent. (Of course!) But she has no problem judging other women wearing the same brand and the words slut and whore are thrown around like confetti. Early on in the story Lexi dislikes a nurse named Amber because she flirts with Cole and is later witnesses her in a dark closet with another Guard. She is instantly labeled in Lexi’s mind, without any thought about her motivations or possible victimization. Amber is pretty much a cardboard cutout we are supposed to hate.
And let’s not forget that Lexi is innocent of the crime she is accused of! Even though our heroine never proclaims it out loud she thinks it enough that we know it must be true. We get confirmation regarding this later on in the book when Lexi is attacked by several Guards and then is attended to by the doctor who runs the hospital:
You see, she IS innocent! And the fetishizing of virginity in romance remains intact. (Okay, not funny. I know.) What we have here, dear reader is an acute case of the Mary Sue. Let’s do a tally, shall we? Lexi has turquoise eyes, is told again and again how beautiful she is by the people around her, she is innocent of the crime of lust and is in fact a virgin, and she is rescued again and again by her hero Cole. Not to mention she has an amazing artistic ability, and ends up being good at everything she attempts, which honestly isn’t much. She’s so self-absorbed that we learn very little about the Hole, the dystopian future that is the setting for this book, or anything else that would have made this story interesting. Not to mention that the doctor has this “scanner” in a hospital that can only afford one bag of morphine!
7.) The writing is in this book was okay in the beginning. The fast pace and world building kept my attention for the first few chapters. After that I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes at the horrible dialogue and cardboard characterizations. It did not help that Lexi was either throwing up or crying every other page. I can’t help but think that the authors went out of their way to try and gross us out with their constant description of the smells and sights that Lexi encounters.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the bodily fluid mentions:
10 vomit
8 puke
3 throw up
51 tears
21 cry
6 urine
75 blood
Even the small attempts at humor involve bodily functions and fall flat. Instead of reading a dark thrilling book as promised, I felt like I was reading a gross out and over the top story that pre-teens would share around a campfire. I could continue the list above, but there is little point. The book never gets better, only worse. The premise started out promising but eventually this book sunk into little more than an unrealistic and ridiculous attempt to be the new Hunger Games.
My score? D-
Now LUST wraps around my neck like blue fingers strangling me. I’ve been accused of a crime I didn’t commit and now the Hole is my new home.
Darkness. Death. Violence. Pain.
Now every day is a fight for survival. But I won’t die. I won’t let them win.
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
The blurb sounded great and considering it has a four star rating on both Amazon and 카지노싸이트 I decided to give it a shot. And at first I believed it was as good as all those reviewers told me it was going to be. The story takes place in a dystopian future where criminals are branded “sinners”, marked with a tattoo (different colors for different sins) and sent to live in a prison/slum like place called the Hole. In the Hole sinners are watched by the guards who regularly abuse and kill them, all with the approval of the Commander who has been running the country as a dictatorship for fifty years. There is no judicial system, no trials, and no ‘innocent until proven guilty’. There is “High Society” where the regular people live and there is the Hole where people accused of the seven deadly sins end up after they are accused.
The book starts out with Lexi, a woman from High Society attempting suicide. She fails and is taken into custody by the guards. She is accused of the sin of lust and is branded with a blue band around her neck and sent to the Hole. Once there she is assigned to a Guard named Cole, whose job it is to escort her to work and keep her in line. He has an adjoining room to hers (convenient) and he is the person who explains how the Hole works and what is expected of her as its newest resident.
I have to stop here, because seriously, the story gets a bit convoluted and at this point and it will be easier to break down where things start to go wrong for me.
1.) The big plot twists in the book are obvious from the get-go and it is written in first person which makes for an awkward and very limited narrative. As readers we only know what Lexi knows, and to be honest it isn’t much.
2.) Though the Hole is described as Hell and a basically lawless place where Sinners are abused and executed willy-nilly, Lexi is assigned her own Guard who seems like a nice guy and tells her again and again he has orders to protect her. Huh? She doesn’t question why she has special treatment and that her life is better than all those around her. This got more annoying as the story wore on.
3.) It’s pretty obvious from the beginning that Cole and Lexi are destined to fall in love. The problem is that the authors do much more telling than showing in their relationship. I never felt any kind of connection between them other than the characters telling each other how they feel.
4.) Of course love between a Sinner and a Guard is FORBIDDEN. Early in the book Lexi and Cole witness an execution of a couple for this reason. However there are Sinners who are prostitutes and the Guards are allowed to have sex with them. Say what now? So sex for money and favors between the two is okay, but true love is outlawed. And if you fall in love you are executed. What if a Guard fell in love with a prostitute?! I found myself confused over the whole thing.
5.) Lexi is assigned to work at the only hospital in the Hole, although she has no medical training whatsoever. It’s okay though, because we don’t ever really find out what she does there anyway, aside from stepping over puddles of puke and folding linens. There are several times I balked at the lack of medical knowledge displayed in this book.
6.) Oh the misogyny! This book wouldn’t be complete without the added fun of hating women and women hating on each other. Lexi is branded for the sin of lust even though we know she is innocent. (Of course!) But she has no problem judging other women wearing the same brand and the words slut and whore are thrown around like confetti. Early on in the story Lexi dislikes a nurse named Amber because she flirts with Cole and is later witnesses her in a dark closet with another Guard. She is instantly labeled in Lexi’s mind, without any thought about her motivations or possible victimization. Amber is pretty much a cardboard cutout we are supposed to hate.
And let’s not forget that Lexi is innocent of the crime she is accused of! Even though our heroine never proclaims it out loud she thinks it enough that we know it must be true. We get confirmation regarding this later on in the book when Lexi is attacked by several Guards and then is attended to by the doctor who runs the hospital:
“I performed a test to make sure you weren’t raped. Cole wasn’t certain if he’d gotten to you in time. Thank God it was negative. You were never raped-but not only will that test reveal a recent sexual encounter, it can report any sexual intercourse that’s happened. It scans the tissues and checks if anything has been stretched, torn, or irritated. It then shows us if you are intact.” He leans over and reaches for my hands. I take a deep breath knowing what’s about to come out of his mouth. “My dear you are a virgin and that’s a medical fact.”
You see, she IS innocent! And the fetishizing of virginity in romance remains intact. (Okay, not funny. I know.) What we have here, dear reader is an acute case of the Mary Sue. Let’s do a tally, shall we? Lexi has turquoise eyes, is told again and again how beautiful she is by the people around her, she is innocent of the crime of lust and is in fact a virgin, and she is rescued again and again by her hero Cole. Not to mention she has an amazing artistic ability, and ends up being good at everything she attempts, which honestly isn’t much. She’s so self-absorbed that we learn very little about the Hole, the dystopian future that is the setting for this book, or anything else that would have made this story interesting. Not to mention that the doctor has this “scanner” in a hospital that can only afford one bag of morphine!
7.) The writing is in this book was okay in the beginning. The fast pace and world building kept my attention for the first few chapters. After that I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes at the horrible dialogue and cardboard characterizations. It did not help that Lexi was either throwing up or crying every other page. I can’t help but think that the authors went out of their way to try and gross us out with their constant description of the smells and sights that Lexi encounters.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the bodily fluid mentions:
10 vomit
8 puke
3 throw up
51 tears
21 cry
6 urine
75 blood
Even the small attempts at humor involve bodily functions and fall flat. Instead of reading a dark thrilling book as promised, I felt like I was reading a gross out and over the top story that pre-teens would share around a campfire. I could continue the list above, but there is little point. The book never gets better, only worse. The premise started out promising but eventually this book sunk into little more than an unrealistic and ridiculous attempt to be the new Hunger Games.
My score? D-
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2013
4 Fighting Stars
This story takes place in a post-WWV world, which is now a completely different place.
The world is now ruled by the “Commander” and it has to remain pure.
No sins… and no sinners.
The Commander believes that the seven deadly were the cause to the downfall of society and all the sinners that are believed to commit a crime inside one of the seven deadly sins are judged and sent to “The Hole” where a color will identify the type of sin they committed.
Lexi was sent to the hole and she didn't try to defend herself because she knew it wouldn't matter. There she meets Cole, the guard assigned for her.
Relationships between guards and prisoners are strictly forbidden… but Cole starts to see that maybe Lexi isn't so guilty and they can’t help start falling in love.
And with that starts a crazy ride.
I liked this book. Normally I'm not the biggest fan of dystopian books but this catch my attention and I was not disappointed.
There were some things that didn't worked for me, but other than that, it’s a beautiful love story with an original twist and it’s hard not to be hooked to the book and the characters.
Definitely a series that I’ll follow.
*ARC courtesy of Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
This story takes place in a post-WWV world, which is now a completely different place.
The world is now ruled by the “Commander” and it has to remain pure.
No sins… and no sinners.
The Commander believes that the seven deadly were the cause to the downfall of society and all the sinners that are believed to commit a crime inside one of the seven deadly sins are judged and sent to “The Hole” where a color will identify the type of sin they committed.
Lexi was sent to the hole and she didn't try to defend herself because she knew it wouldn't matter. There she meets Cole, the guard assigned for her.
Relationships between guards and prisoners are strictly forbidden… but Cole starts to see that maybe Lexi isn't so guilty and they can’t help start falling in love.
And with that starts a crazy ride.
I liked this book. Normally I'm not the biggest fan of dystopian books but this catch my attention and I was not disappointed.
There were some things that didn't worked for me, but other than that, it’s a beautiful love story with an original twist and it’s hard not to be hooked to the book and the characters.
Definitely a series that I’ll follow.
*ARC courtesy of Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
July 1, 2013
I'd like it to go on record and state that on this day I said "Just you wait and see... Branded is going to become a Bestseller for sure. If this doesn't happen then there's a problem with the system. Injustice will not be tolerated - Branded deserves to be amongst the best."
It's been a long time since I read a YA and even longer since I read a dystopian novel. I'd forgotten how much fun they can be. Yes, Branded is YA and considering I'm bordering on 31, I do like more 'risque' books, however, Branded is not as spic and span as you may be lead to believe. The blood, sweat and tears within this book is not something for the faint at heart.
Really the only thing that makes this a YA is the fact that there isn't much swearing (or none - but I speak under correction). There are no sexual themed naked scenes so that would add to it being considered a YA... but other than that it's pretty dark, deep and emotional... Quite grown up. But you know what... even though I do love my angst and passion... I didn't miss it at all while reading this book. It was only afterwards that I realized there was no adult content and even then, I can't say it bothered me at all nor did it change my opinion of the book.
I don't need to go into what Branded is about because the summary is sufficient enough to give you a taste, however, I feel it is my duty to inform you that if you have not gotten your hands on this book yet... do so immediately. It's so engrossing and perfectly written that for those few hours while you are reading this book... you are gripped into the unique world created by Abi & Missy within Branded.
I have absolutely no complaints. None what-so-ever... ok maybe one and that's is that I really need to get my hands on the second part. Although Branded doesn't end on a cliffer, you don't get nearly enough of Cole...
Who is this Cole I speak of? Well... Cole is the reading worlds newest book boyfriend. Perfect and Divine!
I loved every single character in the book... well except for the Commander and we aren't suppose to like him so clearly the job of character development was done brilliantly.
Branded is a debut novel for author duo Abi Ketner & Missy Kalicicki and what a privilege to have been able to read it.
I will never be the same again... I too have been Branded...
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July 22, 2015
5/5 Stars
Branded is fast paced, action packed with a slight amount of gore and heartbreak. Branded gave me so many feels.
The Hole is definitely one of the last places I'd ever want to be, and it was described in such detail that I was frightened for Lexi and even a tad shaken myself. The world created by Abi and Missy was extremely terrifying.
I loved Lexi, she puked A TON but ended up super strong and badass. Also, COLEXI! I love them together, and they aren't your conventional YA angsty couple, they stay together and fight for each other. Its really admirable, and I couldn't wait for the next book, Hunted, to see them kick tons more ass together. Theres tons of chemistry and passion between them.
I was extremely happy with Branded and I think most YA dystopian fans will be too!
June 26, 2013
5 BRILLIANT, HEART RACING,CAPTIVATING DYSTOPIAN STARS
"Never did I imagine they’d come for me. Never did I imagine all those nights I heard them dragging someone else away that I’d join them."
The book is set post World War V. The commander, a cold hearted man who wants to eradicate all sins by locking up sinners in a place called The Hole,there is no trial.He has took over the country and everyone is under his control.Anyone who speaks out against him will be branded a sinner or executed.
"You can overcome anything...short of death."
Lexi Hamilton has been accused and guards have come to take her away to The Hole,she doesn't have a chance to defend herself..there is no trial.Screaming that she has been falsely accused would result in torture or death.She is branded around her neck with LUST.She may not have committed the crime but The Hole is now her new home.Survival is key.
The Seven Deadly Sins:
Lust ~ Blue
Gluttony ~ Orange
Greed ~ Yellow
Sloth ~ Black
Wrath ~ Red
Envy ~ Green
Pride ~ Purple
This is an awesome,fast paced, heart wrenching romance.I was sucked into this imaginary world right from page 1.I was captivated by the environment, the disturbing scenes and the story. I'm sure The Hole is just another word for Hell! It is so creepy,gritty and made my skin crawl.
"I don't want to die, but at the same time, I wish I were dead."
Lexi Hamilton is a strong, brave fighter.She fights for survival and for freedom.You couldn't help but sympathise with her, can you imagine this even happening to you? :O
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
She is assigned a guard to watch her. Cole is a strong, loyal(don't forget hot) guard ;) He isn't like most of the guards, who treat sinners like dirt. In the midst of chaos a relationship is formed between guard and sinner. Lexi and Cole's feelings become stronger as days go by but its wrong. For a Guard to love a Sinner is like committing suicide in the worst possible way.If they are accused they will be tortured and killed.
"Shhh..." He grips me closer to his body and then softly whispers in my ear, "I'm about to kiss you, and once I start I won't be able to stop. Just thought I should warn you."
Now lets get down to the important character in this book...Zeus ;)
The loving protective awesome dog! I loved this dog he is always there for Lexi when she needs him!
Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki did a superb job with this book I cant wait for more! I want to know more about Cole!
**ARC courtesy of the authors via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Check out my blog for more reviews!
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"Never did I imagine they’d come for me. Never did I imagine all those nights I heard them dragging someone else away that I’d join them."
The book is set post World War V. The commander, a cold hearted man who wants to eradicate all sins by locking up sinners in a place called The Hole,there is no trial.He has took over the country and everyone is under his control.Anyone who speaks out against him will be branded a sinner or executed.
"You can overcome anything...short of death."
Lexi Hamilton has been accused and guards have come to take her away to The Hole,she doesn't have a chance to defend herself..there is no trial.Screaming that she has been falsely accused would result in torture or death.She is branded around her neck with LUST.She may not have committed the crime but The Hole is now her new home.Survival is key.
The Seven Deadly Sins:
Lust ~ Blue
Gluttony ~ Orange
Greed ~ Yellow
Sloth ~ Black
Wrath ~ Red
Envy ~ Green
Pride ~ Purple
This is an awesome,fast paced, heart wrenching romance.I was sucked into this imaginary world right from page 1.I was captivated by the environment, the disturbing scenes and the story. I'm sure The Hole is just another word for Hell! It is so creepy,gritty and made my skin crawl.
"I don't want to die, but at the same time, I wish I were dead."
Lexi Hamilton is a strong, brave fighter.She fights for survival and for freedom.You couldn't help but sympathise with her, can you imagine this even happening to you? :O
The Hole can’t keep me. The Hole can’t break me.
I am more than my brand. I’m a fighter.
My name is Lexi Hamilton, and this is my story.
She is assigned a guard to watch her. Cole is a strong, loyal(don't forget hot) guard ;) He isn't like most of the guards, who treat sinners like dirt. In the midst of chaos a relationship is formed between guard and sinner. Lexi and Cole's feelings become stronger as days go by but its wrong. For a Guard to love a Sinner is like committing suicide in the worst possible way.If they are accused they will be tortured and killed.
"Shhh..." He grips me closer to his body and then softly whispers in my ear, "I'm about to kiss you, and once I start I won't be able to stop. Just thought I should warn you."
Now lets get down to the important character in this book...Zeus ;)
The loving protective awesome dog! I loved this dog he is always there for Lexi when she needs him!
Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki did a superb job with this book I cant wait for more! I want to know more about Cole!
**ARC courtesy of the authors via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Check out my blog for more reviews!
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April 29, 2017
I don't like to hurt people's feelings, but when I'm asked to review a book, I give my honest opinion. I agreed to review this book even though I'm not a fan of dystopian lit.
First of all, the writing was poor AT BEST. This book could have used SO many more revisions. There were a LOT of pacing problems. It was lackluster and poorly worded, not to mention the grammar problems.
Second, to me, this book felt like a rip-off of every other dystopian book I've read. It seemed like a mash-up of Shatter Me, Divergent and The Host...among others. There was nothing original here. Even the love story was cliche and tired.
Lastly, I didn't feel anything for the characters. They weren't developed. I was bored with the story. I figured out the twist. I just wanted it to end. I wouldn't have finished it, had I not agreed to review it.
I liked the dog.
I was not impressed and will be more careful with the books I agree to review. Thank you for asking me to review this, but please don't ask for a review unless you want my honest opinion.
June 30, 2013
After reading the first Chapter that was posted ~ something I NEVER do ~ I totally HAD to read this book!!! Honestly, this is the second dystopian book I've read (the other one is part of another series) and let's just I'm ....
This book sucked me in the minute I started it ~ right out of the gates Lexi is apprehended for reasons that well made me downright
and then what she went through while being processed well I was...
and the reason why she has been arrested one of The Seven Deadly Sins would've had me ...
She's immediately assigned a guard ~ Cole ~ Lexi is Cole's new assignment and he will be escorting her to The Hole and he will be responsible for her. In the beginning the way Cole treated Lexi had me wanting to ...
him where it counts but thankfully that thought didn't last for too long! The Hole is BEYOND the worst place a "sinner" can be banished and banishment itself doesn't mean you are locked away ~ nope you are working while you are in The Hole ~ and the assignment your given is the one your stuck with. For Lexi I felt ...
at her assignment until she was introduced to a certain co-worker who had me ...
There were things that happened in The Hole that had me..
and there were times Cole would act a certain way and I would..
Love between a Prisoner and there Guard is ABOSOLUTELY forbidden and when we witness the repercussions of getting caught in such an illicit affair I was ...
There were many ups and downs in this book! There were times that I did
and when the unthinkable happens I totally..
and then I totally....
because finally feelings were owned up to and things started to get really good and really edge on the seat. There a few ...
running through my mind. Of course I had a few more times where I was...
and when it got to then end and a plan I was cheering for I started ...
again and I swear not even 5 minutes I was like..
[image error]
and at the end I started ...
What's next for Cole & Lexi? Will they get to openly express their love for one another? Will they get their happily ever-after? Or will they always be ...
and looking over their shoulders? Well Ladies, that's something we have to wait to find out as the series develops. This is the first book in the Sinner's series and while this is a series the end of Branded does deliver a huge...
and for me a big ...
cause I already want MORE!!!!!!! Above & Beyond 5 stars ~ absolutely wonderful story that is intriguing and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time ~ A forbidden love that develops slowly and once started nothing will stand in the way of Cole & Lexi being together!!!
This book sucked me in the minute I started it ~ right out of the gates Lexi is apprehended for reasons that well made me downright
and then what she went through while being processed well I was...
and the reason why she has been arrested one of The Seven Deadly Sins would've had me ...
She's immediately assigned a guard ~ Cole ~ Lexi is Cole's new assignment and he will be escorting her to The Hole and he will be responsible for her. In the beginning the way Cole treated Lexi had me wanting to ...
him where it counts but thankfully that thought didn't last for too long! The Hole is BEYOND the worst place a "sinner" can be banished and banishment itself doesn't mean you are locked away ~ nope you are working while you are in The Hole ~ and the assignment your given is the one your stuck with. For Lexi I felt ...
at her assignment until she was introduced to a certain co-worker who had me ...
There were things that happened in The Hole that had me..
and there were times Cole would act a certain way and I would..
Love between a Prisoner and there Guard is ABOSOLUTELY forbidden and when we witness the repercussions of getting caught in such an illicit affair I was ...
There were many ups and downs in this book! There were times that I did
and when the unthinkable happens I totally..
and then I totally....
because finally feelings were owned up to and things started to get really good and really edge on the seat. There a few ...
running through my mind. Of course I had a few more times where I was...
and when it got to then end and a plan I was cheering for I started ...
again and I swear not even 5 minutes I was like..
[image error]
and at the end I started ...
What's next for Cole & Lexi? Will they get to openly express their love for one another? Will they get their happily ever-after? Or will they always be ...
and looking over their shoulders? Well Ladies, that's something we have to wait to find out as the series develops. This is the first book in the Sinner's series and while this is a series the end of Branded does deliver a huge...
and for me a big ...
cause I already want MORE!!!!!!! Above & Beyond 5 stars ~ absolutely wonderful story that is intriguing and kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time ~ A forbidden love that develops slowly and once started nothing will stand in the way of Cole & Lexi being together!!!
July 6, 2013
Wow! What an utterly thrilling, heartbreaking, brutally intense read! I loved it!
The story is set in a future dystopian world which is ruled by ‘The Commander’. The Commander believes that the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society, and therefore anybody even accused of committing one of these sins is immediately labelled a Sinner, branded around the neck with the colour representative of the sin they have been accused of committing, and thrown into ‘The Hole’ – a horrifyingly violent prison community where you are sentenced to live, work, and die.
When 18 year old Lexi is accused of the sin of Lust, she is taken from her home, branded, and sent to The Hole. With her blue brand giving the impression that she is a whore, she becomes an instant target for the prisoners and guards behind the walls, but she has one thing in her favour. A permanent guard - Cole.
Lexi is amazing!!! Despite her devastatingly traumatic past, and her horrific present, she doesn’t give up. She carries on with her life, trying to survive in the worst of circumstances, and her strength despite all that she endures makes you want to stand up and cheer for her.
“You can overcome anything...short of death.”
And Cole… well, Cole is freaking phenomenal! Strong, brave, and determined to protect Lexi at all costs, he guards her well, treating her with respect and care, like she is somebody worthy, and that is something she has not had for a very long time – even before she came to The Hole. Plus he has the most awesome dog ever – Zeus is a total scene stealer. His protectiveness over Lexi is gorgeous!
But the two of them face great danger when they start to develop feelings for each other. Relationships between guards and sinners is strictly forbidden, and that lesson is demonstrated in shocking brutality early on in the book. So even though Cole acts like her guard in public, things are very different when they are alone. And they are justifiably terrified.
“I want you to trust me. I need you to trust me.” He sighs and I hear the pain and confusion in his voice.
“Why?”
“I don’t know why and it scares the hell out of me.”
But suffering through violence, death, heartbreak and brutal attacks only draws them closer together , and despite the danger, the most beautiful, sweet and tender (YA) romance begins to develop.
“Shhh…” He grips me closer to his body and then softly whispers in my ear, “I’m about to kiss you, and once I start I won’t be able to stop. Just thought I should warn you.”
I love that Lexi and Cole were able to fall for each other despite the brutality of everything happening around them. The connection between them is gorgeous, and while the romance is an important part of the story, it doesn’t overwhelm everything else that is going on. And there is SO much going on – not only the daily battle to survive, but also the ongoing threat of danger, an evil dictator, and a looming rebellion.
But even with all of this unfolding, there was definitely enough swoon to satisfy the romance-lover in me.
“I don’t ever want you to question it. I love you. I’d give my life to save yours. That’s how much I love you. Don’t you dare ever doubt that.”
“Even if it was only for a day, an hour, or a minute – I would risk everything just so I could be with you.”
“ ”
SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!
There is a sensational cast of characters. Both good and bad, they are well developed, and brilliantly written, and each play an important part of the story. Shout out to Sutton and Bruno. If I was living in that environment, I’d definitely want them on my side. And as for the bad guys – oh so EVIL!!! And totally stab-worthy.
The story is fast-paced, full of action and absolutely thrilling. The writing is fantastic, the world is explained well and it’s beautifully descriptive - I could see the whole story unfolding in front of me like I was watching a movie, and I felt like I was experiencing it all alongside the characters. There are some sensational twists, and some big shocks that I totally didn’t see coming! And I love that the element of surprise was there! The authors definitely don’t hold back when it comes to describing the violence and hopelessness of the world, and shocking the reader, but in between all of the brutality, there are some beautifully tender moments which had me clutching my heart.
Now for the ranty part - there is a part of the story towards the end of the book that I thought was completely stupid and unnecessary. I didn’t understand why it was written like that, and to be honest, it really pissed me off! (Be warned, this is a very spoilery rant – don’t read it unless you’ve already read the book. ).
All ends well though! There is a (mostly) happy ending, and while the book has a natural conclusion, there is definitely more of the story to come!
I'm looking forward to more from this series.
4 stars.
The story is set in a future dystopian world which is ruled by ‘The Commander’. The Commander believes that the seven deadly sins were the downfall of society, and therefore anybody even accused of committing one of these sins is immediately labelled a Sinner, branded around the neck with the colour representative of the sin they have been accused of committing, and thrown into ‘The Hole’ – a horrifyingly violent prison community where you are sentenced to live, work, and die.
When 18 year old Lexi is accused of the sin of Lust, she is taken from her home, branded, and sent to The Hole. With her blue brand giving the impression that she is a whore, she becomes an instant target for the prisoners and guards behind the walls, but she has one thing in her favour. A permanent guard - Cole.
Lexi is amazing!!! Despite her devastatingly traumatic past, and her horrific present, she doesn’t give up. She carries on with her life, trying to survive in the worst of circumstances, and her strength despite all that she endures makes you want to stand up and cheer for her.
“You can overcome anything...short of death.”
And Cole… well, Cole is freaking phenomenal! Strong, brave, and determined to protect Lexi at all costs, he guards her well, treating her with respect and care, like she is somebody worthy, and that is something she has not had for a very long time – even before she came to The Hole. Plus he has the most awesome dog ever – Zeus is a total scene stealer. His protectiveness over Lexi is gorgeous!
But the two of them face great danger when they start to develop feelings for each other. Relationships between guards and sinners is strictly forbidden, and that lesson is demonstrated in shocking brutality early on in the book. So even though Cole acts like her guard in public, things are very different when they are alone. And they are justifiably terrified.
“I want you to trust me. I need you to trust me.” He sighs and I hear the pain and confusion in his voice.
“Why?”
“I don’t know why and it scares the hell out of me.”
But suffering through violence, death, heartbreak and brutal attacks only draws them closer together , and despite the danger, the most beautiful, sweet and tender (YA) romance begins to develop.
“Shhh…” He grips me closer to his body and then softly whispers in my ear, “I’m about to kiss you, and once I start I won’t be able to stop. Just thought I should warn you.”
I love that Lexi and Cole were able to fall for each other despite the brutality of everything happening around them. The connection between them is gorgeous, and while the romance is an important part of the story, it doesn’t overwhelm everything else that is going on. And there is SO much going on – not only the daily battle to survive, but also the ongoing threat of danger, an evil dictator, and a looming rebellion.
But even with all of this unfolding, there was definitely enough swoon to satisfy the romance-lover in me.
“I don’t ever want you to question it. I love you. I’d give my life to save yours. That’s how much I love you. Don’t you dare ever doubt that.”
“Even if it was only for a day, an hour, or a minute – I would risk everything just so I could be with you.”
“ ”
SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!
There is a sensational cast of characters. Both good and bad, they are well developed, and brilliantly written, and each play an important part of the story. Shout out to Sutton and Bruno. If I was living in that environment, I’d definitely want them on my side. And as for the bad guys – oh so EVIL!!! And totally stab-worthy.
The story is fast-paced, full of action and absolutely thrilling. The writing is fantastic, the world is explained well and it’s beautifully descriptive - I could see the whole story unfolding in front of me like I was watching a movie, and I felt like I was experiencing it all alongside the characters. There are some sensational twists, and some big shocks that I totally didn’t see coming! And I love that the element of surprise was there! The authors definitely don’t hold back when it comes to describing the violence and hopelessness of the world, and shocking the reader, but in between all of the brutality, there are some beautifully tender moments which had me clutching my heart.
Now for the ranty part - there is a part of the story towards the end of the book that I thought was completely stupid and unnecessary. I didn’t understand why it was written like that, and to be honest, it really pissed me off! (Be warned, this is a very spoilery rant – don’t read it unless you’ve already read the book. ).
All ends well though! There is a (mostly) happy ending, and while the book has a natural conclusion, there is definitely more of the story to come!
I'm looking forward to more from this series.
4 stars.
July 4, 2013
What would you do if you lived in a world where you were guilty if you were accused? If you were branded for life for sins you did not commit? If you were thrown into a horrible prison called The Hole to fend for yourself and fight daily to survive? This is the horror and the hell that Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicicki created in Branded.
[image error]
Lexi is a young woman who has been forced into the Hole and branded for committing the sin of Lust. She is immediately given a guard and escorted to her new "home". She learns the rules in The Hole. She is is fortunate enough to have been given an assignment in the hospital.
Cole is her guard and she soon discovers that this is not the norm in The Hole. She is very grateful for his protection. Sinners branded with Lust are frequently given the "job" of being a prostitute. She escaped that fate and is sent to work daily. She is leered at and she discovers that without protection, she would become a frequent victim to the depravity that surrounds her.
Cole saves her time and again. He is a handsome guard who soon discovers that Lexi is not all that she seems. Lexi soon discovers that The Hole is not all that it seems and Cole becomes someone who she finds herself falling for.
In The Hole the biggest sin is falling for a sinner. Both the sinner and the guard are dealt with swiftly and painfully. The guards take their frustrations out on the sinners. They are viewed as sub-humans. The Commander is the ultimate authority and he is the man behind the current system. He is never seen but he is all seeing. The atmosphere is one of fear and hate.
For some people in The Hole, all hope is lost and they simply give up. But for a few, they dream of a better future. Of crystal clear blue waters and sunny skies. They know that they can be more and have more for themselves and the future generations. They are the roots that take hold and refuse to be pulled.
This book was EPIC! This is the DEBUT novel for both authors. It was simply amazing. This was slightly off genre for me. This is a young adult dystopian fantasy. It is all story with a love story in the mix. There were no graphic scenes and I would rate it PG-13. I usually go for the more adult stuff but I did not find this one missing anything at all.
It was simply magnificent.
Great job! 5 Stars!
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.***
May 12, 2013
"You're amazing just the way you are. There's not a single thing I would change about you. When you smile my entire world stops. All I see is you. I need you."
For a debut novel, this one really blew me away! I sometimes cringe when I read a debut novel as sometimes authors have to find comfort in writing, but with Branded I could tell that the authors felt passionate and comfortable while writing it! I had been wanting to read Branded since I first heard about it after one of the authors approached me about reading the first chapter! I normally don't like just reading the first few chapters of a book because then I'm even more desperate to read the whole thing! With Branded I wasn't sure what to expect as it didn't have a cover or a synopsis at that point, but I soon became addicted! Once I started reading this book, I couldn't stop so when I got an ARC of it I screamed! This book is not for the fainthearted! It's bloody and gory and full of suspense! It's definitely for someone who loves an adventure or for someone who loves discovering something new! The plot of Branded really blew me away! It was a fresh idea with new elements added and there was so much going on in it! I did cry several times during it as well! I knew that I was going to, but I tried so hard not too! It really hits you hard and it really will make your heart break! The suspense throughout this book really was mind-blowing as well! It felt like I was watching my favourite action film for the first time! You know, when your eyes are glued to the screen and you can't look away! Well, with Branded I was hooked from page one and I couldn't stop reading until I got to the last page! What I enjoyed about this book was that I found out things that I thought that I wasn't going too! I thought that some of it would have carried over to the next book, but that actually probably won't happen as secrets get revealed in this book and then resolved! The characters were also amazing! I couldn't help but feel sorry for Lexi as she had been through so much and then when she gets put in The Hole my heart broke for her! As I discovered her story I started to feel so much more for her! I connected with her the whole way through this book and that connection didn't break once! Cole was so hot! I loved that he was in nearly all the scenes and he had such a big role as he was my favourite male character! Cole would do anything for Lexi and you could see that everytime he was with her! It was so sweet, but in Lexi's world you really needed something beautiful and for me that was it! I am definitely going to read the next book in this series and I will probably be begging the authors to let me read any chapter from it! I saw the original cover for this book and I have to be honest and say that I adored that cover, but after reading Branded I can see how well the new cover suits it! Huge thank you to Abi and Missy for an ARC of Branded!
For a debut novel, this one really blew me away! I sometimes cringe when I read a debut novel as sometimes authors have to find comfort in writing, but with Branded I could tell that the authors felt passionate and comfortable while writing it! I had been wanting to read Branded since I first heard about it after one of the authors approached me about reading the first chapter! I normally don't like just reading the first few chapters of a book because then I'm even more desperate to read the whole thing! With Branded I wasn't sure what to expect as it didn't have a cover or a synopsis at that point, but I soon became addicted! Once I started reading this book, I couldn't stop so when I got an ARC of it I screamed! This book is not for the fainthearted! It's bloody and gory and full of suspense! It's definitely for someone who loves an adventure or for someone who loves discovering something new! The plot of Branded really blew me away! It was a fresh idea with new elements added and there was so much going on in it! I did cry several times during it as well! I knew that I was going to, but I tried so hard not too! It really hits you hard and it really will make your heart break! The suspense throughout this book really was mind-blowing as well! It felt like I was watching my favourite action film for the first time! You know, when your eyes are glued to the screen and you can't look away! Well, with Branded I was hooked from page one and I couldn't stop reading until I got to the last page! What I enjoyed about this book was that I found out things that I thought that I wasn't going too! I thought that some of it would have carried over to the next book, but that actually probably won't happen as secrets get revealed in this book and then resolved! The characters were also amazing! I couldn't help but feel sorry for Lexi as she had been through so much and then when she gets put in The Hole my heart broke for her! As I discovered her story I started to feel so much more for her! I connected with her the whole way through this book and that connection didn't break once! Cole was so hot! I loved that he was in nearly all the scenes and he had such a big role as he was my favourite male character! Cole would do anything for Lexi and you could see that everytime he was with her! It was so sweet, but in Lexi's world you really needed something beautiful and for me that was it! I am definitely going to read the next book in this series and I will probably be begging the authors to let me read any chapter from it! I saw the original cover for this book and I have to be honest and say that I adored that cover, but after reading Branded I can see how well the new cover suits it! Huge thank you to Abi and Missy for an ARC of Branded!
May 31, 2013
Well first off I want to give a HUGE shout out to Abi Ketner and Missy Kalicciki ! They are two remarkable people and authors and they gave me the chance to read ‘Branded’ before it was released and I have to say I am so happy they did!
This is the story of Lexi Hamilton and her fight to stay alive in the world that was falling apart around her. She will not let them win and she will not let them take over her life she will fight! Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and he decided the seven deadly sins were the reason the world was on a breakdown. So he decided to brand each sinner for their crime giving each sin a specific color, then they were branded on their neck with that color and sent to the HOLE. Hopefully they serviced in the HOLE but now that Lexi is branded with the one sin she never thought she would end up with, Lust, she is now one of the branded.
OH wow what can I say about this one I mean it was page turning, intense, emotional and so much more! This is one dystopian filled with so much you just want and need in a book! I loved that Ketner & Kalicicki had me hooked from the start making me climb more and more into this book with each page. I really felt like I was taking to a whole other world and sometime got lost in what was going on around me!
There are many characters I loved in this one! Cole, well who cant love Cole I mean it is Cole ( well you shall see once you read *wink-wink*) and Dr. Sutton is super remarkable as well along with a few others you wont want to miss meeting in this one! Lexi’s STRONG character was just so intense and she really made me happy to be a girl! She never backed down she never showed her fear and she always kept her head high I loved it! Even after she is taken to the HOLE she never stops being herself and fighting for what she wants. You will love her journey to finding out what’s really going on around her and there will be surprises that pop up everywhere! She might even find love in different places even in all the hate and distaste that’s gong on around her. Jus don’t get comfy because there are some surprise and things you will never see coming!
A MUST MUST read dystopian/NA of 2013! I do recommend this to 13 and up but all will love it I am sure of it!
This is the story of Lexi Hamilton and her fight to stay alive in the world that was falling apart around her. She will not let them win and she will not let them take over her life she will fight! Fifty years ago the Commander came into power and he decided the seven deadly sins were the reason the world was on a breakdown. So he decided to brand each sinner for their crime giving each sin a specific color, then they were branded on their neck with that color and sent to the HOLE. Hopefully they serviced in the HOLE but now that Lexi is branded with the one sin she never thought she would end up with, Lust, she is now one of the branded.
OH wow what can I say about this one I mean it was page turning, intense, emotional and so much more! This is one dystopian filled with so much you just want and need in a book! I loved that Ketner & Kalicicki had me hooked from the start making me climb more and more into this book with each page. I really felt like I was taking to a whole other world and sometime got lost in what was going on around me!
There are many characters I loved in this one! Cole, well who cant love Cole I mean it is Cole ( well you shall see once you read *wink-wink*) and Dr. Sutton is super remarkable as well along with a few others you wont want to miss meeting in this one! Lexi’s STRONG character was just so intense and she really made me happy to be a girl! She never backed down she never showed her fear and she always kept her head high I loved it! Even after she is taken to the HOLE she never stops being herself and fighting for what she wants. You will love her journey to finding out what’s really going on around her and there will be surprises that pop up everywhere! She might even find love in different places even in all the hate and distaste that’s gong on around her. Jus don’t get comfy because there are some surprise and things you will never see coming!
A MUST MUST read dystopian/NA of 2013! I do recommend this to 13 and up but all will love it I am sure of it!
June 9, 2013
First of all…THANK YOU, Missy and Abi for letting me read this!!!
I finished Branded and was left speechless. This Dystopian tale takes place in the future, around a world burdened and warped by one crazed Commander. Sinners are collected and taken to a place called the HOLE, and branded with a color of one of the seven deadly sins. The Hole is horrifying, sorrowful place filled with the scum of the earth, but there is also a whole other part, where people are left starving and dying. The hole is a place where once you enter…there is no leaving, and it is a fight of survival.
But what happens if you were innocent and branded wrongfully???
Okay…I won’t give much more info. because I hate spoilers!!!
This book had me on the edge of my bed, my heart pounding, wondering what was going to happen next. It takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. First you are scared for Lexi (the main character) and then you start to feel the confusion, pain, and hate that the HOLE radiates.
Lexi has been given a guard, to watch over her. His name is Cole *sigh and swoon*, and his AWESOME dog Zeus!!! I LOVE Zeus!!!
As soon as Cole and Lexi meet, there is a tug of emotion between them, and their feelings for each other as they start to spend more time together. But, in the hole any relationship is FORBIDDEN between a guard and sinner, and they could both be executed if they show the slightest love connection.
I read until my eyes shut, and couldn’t wait to get back to find out what was going to happen next. The battle scenes were AMAZING!!! It was a story beautifully told, and described, and has you straight front-and-center with the characters. All I can say is…add this to your lists!!! You won’t be sorry!!! Oh… and HURRY WITH BOOK #2, Abi and Missy!!!
I finished Branded and was left speechless. This Dystopian tale takes place in the future, around a world burdened and warped by one crazed Commander. Sinners are collected and taken to a place called the HOLE, and branded with a color of one of the seven deadly sins. The Hole is horrifying, sorrowful place filled with the scum of the earth, but there is also a whole other part, where people are left starving and dying. The hole is a place where once you enter…there is no leaving, and it is a fight of survival.
But what happens if you were innocent and branded wrongfully???
Okay…I won’t give much more info. because I hate spoilers!!!
This book had me on the edge of my bed, my heart pounding, wondering what was going to happen next. It takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. First you are scared for Lexi (the main character) and then you start to feel the confusion, pain, and hate that the HOLE radiates.
Lexi has been given a guard, to watch over her. His name is Cole *sigh and swoon*, and his AWESOME dog Zeus!!! I LOVE Zeus!!!
As soon as Cole and Lexi meet, there is a tug of emotion between them, and their feelings for each other as they start to spend more time together. But, in the hole any relationship is FORBIDDEN between a guard and sinner, and they could both be executed if they show the slightest love connection.
I read until my eyes shut, and couldn’t wait to get back to find out what was going to happen next. The battle scenes were AMAZING!!! It was a story beautifully told, and described, and has you straight front-and-center with the characters. All I can say is…add this to your lists!!! You won’t be sorry!!! Oh… and HURRY WITH BOOK #2, Abi and Missy!!!
July 31, 2014
SPOILER FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
First thing is first......GO BUY YOURSELF THIS BOOK ASAP.
I spent at least 20 minutes recommending it to everyone I knew on 카지노싸이트 XD
I was positively mind blown by this book.
I first came across this Branded while looking around on instagram. I found the authors' shared account @abiandmissy and I was instantly intrigued. See, I read. A LOT. And this was the first book in a long time that I have come across with a completely different story line. Of course we all read about dystopian oppressive governments but this was a story based on a completely different type of government. They weren't divided into factions based on quality traits like in Divergent, they weren't in districts ruled by one shining capitol like The Hunger Games, nor were there whole lives monitored and controlled like in Ally Condie's Matched. In Lexi Hamilton's world the Seven Deadly Sins are considered the downfall of society. Therefore if you commit one of these sins you become Branded. And that is something completely and totally unique all on its own.
As soon as I found out about Branded I completely fell IN LOVE . I was determined to get my hands on this book. It was a small fan base at first but when I saw how much these fans loved this book and were so consumed by it, it made me wonder What's so great about this book?. I decided to find out for myself. Then the fan base grew and blossomed faster than any other fan base I'd ever seen before. I was apart of The Hunger Games, Divergent, Legend, and The Fault in Our Stars etc. fan base before they became popular so you can image how quickly the popularity of this book grew. SO I finally got my hands on the book, a signed copy might I add thanks to the wonderful authors, and I finally learned why people were going crazy over this book. It was wonderful getting to watch it the fan base grow.
Branded definitely lived up to its hype and I wasn't disappointed.
I'm going to come out and be honest when the book first came I was TERRIFIED I wouldn't like it. Boy was I wrong.
I found myself reading, and loving, the first chapter. I was introduced to Lexi Hamilton, a girl being newly Branded. In Lexi's world, which while I found absolutely horrible was actually quite fascinating, for every deadly sin there is a different color for the Brand.
So Lexi is branded with blue for lust. This was only in the first chapter mind you. This book went quickly but not too quickly, and I hung on every last word I could practically hear it echo in my ears.
What I found most beautiful was the love Lexi had for her father. This is introduced very early on in the story.
"You can overcome anything short of death"
I feel like in today's world father's are butchered, and while I had a totally crappy one, Lexi's love for her father even though he was dead warmed my heart like nothing in any story had ever done before.
Then we are introduced to Cole and I was like
HOT DAMN HELLO THERE
So yeah Cole is a little jerky in the beginning but its nothing we cannot over look!
Since Lexi is branded, blue for lust, she is sent to the Hole. Just about the most disgusting place on the face of the planet. Reading about the Hole the writing was so incredible I could almost smell the bile and feel the scum on my skin. The Hole is where all the Branded sinners live in a hell like harmony in which they work and are basically left to die, with asshole guards ( Except for Cole and Bruno ) to watch over them.
Right away things are horrible for Lexi. She is marked as a slut because of her blue brand and her being a beautiful girl gets her lots of unwanted attention from the other branded pigs.
Cole is the (OMG SO FREAKING SUPER DUPER SEXY) guard in charge of watching over her and keep her alive. Lexi begins to work in the hospital. Which is just as disgusting as the rest of The Hole. Whenever Lexi cried in her dark grimy room in the middle of the night because she was too terrified and couldn't sleep I found myself right there with her and we were crying on each other's shoulders.
At the hospital Lexi meets Sutton, the only doctor there who Lexi looks up to as a father figure and Alyssa. A young girl dying from a deadly virus.
Every time Lexi's heart broke mine broke right along with hers. I have never felt so connected with a character before the way I was with Lexi. The similarities just kept coming. From her appearance, crazy curly hair, to her love of life. I would read a page say something out loud and the first thing on the next page Lexi would say exactly what I did.
As the story progressed I found myself flipping pages so fast I had to actually slow down because I wanted to savor the book! As you can imagine with a hottie like Cole around the attraction between the two grow despite knowing the consequences of having a relationship. Because I mean....he's Cole. And they fall in love. He's my baby.
Cole was one of my favorite characters because he was the most realistic male I've read about in a long time! He wasn't about the nonsense he was real straightforward and overall really cared about Lexi. I loved him.
And then there's ZEUS KING OF ALL THE SEXY BADASS DOGS. IDK i found myself liking Zeus more than everyone else sometimes! I hope he gets a doggy girlfriend!
Throughout the story because of Lexi's brand she often gets very inappropriately sexually harassed. As you might imagine the super perfect Cole wasn't ok with this. But no spoilers! I promise!
What I loved about this story was that from the beginning you know Lexi is innocent, and should not have been Branded, but it takes you a while to figure out why she was branded if she was innocent. I loved watching her back story unravel bit by bit because whereas in other stories once the back story is reveled it's revealed in one shot. Lexi gave us pieces of herself little by little that we had to eventually put together like a puzzle. I loved getting to know Lexi. I felt like I was meeting another version of myself. I loved her. She was one of the very few female protagonists I found myself not hating.
Lexi was abused, attacked, and battered. I admired her strength and will and wish at times that I could be a little more like Lexi. She was definitely a character I admired. A lot.
The writing craft was...oh my god. Beautiful. It was beautiful in depth but simple in a way that it was realistic so that the readers could relate to the writing. Lexi's mind was this complex thing that as you read found yourself easily dissecting because of enthralled you were by the story. I loved the way she expressed herself. I loved the way Lexi presented herself to the world everyday. The world couldn't break her nor would she let it.
I'm not a huge fan of books with two authors because the writing style doesn't blend in and sounds like the two authors are fighting over how to write their story. In branded it wasn't like that the writing went smoothly and blended in I couldn't believe two people worked together on it.
I only finished the book yesterday so excuse my horrible review I'm still mind blown and speechless!
At the end of the story Lexi decides its time to fight back. And she does with great success despite her great losses. Can I just say while reading the last 50 pages the entire time I was screaming
HOLY EFFIN PLOT TWIST! JESUS I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!
Finally, I came the end of this excellent read and I had to do a double take because I didn't believe it was the last page.
Branded was on like anything I've read before. It was a book with a great story line and even greater depth because it told us of a girl that didn't let the brand on her neck define who she was. She refused to be rendered helpless by the ruthless government that ruled over her, and like her father, she fought for what she believed in. She wanted change and she was willing to put her life in danger for it. She wanted something and Lexi worked for it. Lexi is the kind of character that deserves to be praised and admired for her great qualities.
I'm still mind blown I had not expected to love this book so much. I had not expect for it to change my outlook on things the way it did. It is a fantastic read no matter what your taste in reading. Branded has a little bit of everything for everyone.
Branded was filled with forbidden romance, unique characters, a phenomenal story line, heart pounding action, nerve wrecking suspense and moments that could take your heart melt it, and warm it at the same exact time. Read it. It was worthy of every single star I rated it. Anything less would have been unfitting. Go get your copy! You'll love it just as much as I did maybe even more, you know. If it's possible ;)
First thing is first......GO BUY YOURSELF THIS BOOK ASAP.
I spent at least 20 minutes recommending it to everyone I knew on 카지노싸이트 XD
I was positively mind blown by this book.
I first came across this Branded while looking around on instagram. I found the authors' shared account @abiandmissy and I was instantly intrigued. See, I read. A LOT. And this was the first book in a long time that I have come across with a completely different story line. Of course we all read about dystopian oppressive governments but this was a story based on a completely different type of government. They weren't divided into factions based on quality traits like in Divergent, they weren't in districts ruled by one shining capitol like The Hunger Games, nor were there whole lives monitored and controlled like in Ally Condie's Matched. In Lexi Hamilton's world the Seven Deadly Sins are considered the downfall of society. Therefore if you commit one of these sins you become Branded. And that is something completely and totally unique all on its own.
As soon as I found out about Branded I completely fell IN LOVE . I was determined to get my hands on this book. It was a small fan base at first but when I saw how much these fans loved this book and were so consumed by it, it made me wonder What's so great about this book?. I decided to find out for myself. Then the fan base grew and blossomed faster than any other fan base I'd ever seen before. I was apart of The Hunger Games, Divergent, Legend, and The Fault in Our Stars etc. fan base before they became popular so you can image how quickly the popularity of this book grew. SO I finally got my hands on the book, a signed copy might I add thanks to the wonderful authors, and I finally learned why people were going crazy over this book. It was wonderful getting to watch it the fan base grow.
Branded definitely lived up to its hype and I wasn't disappointed.
I'm going to come out and be honest when the book first came I was TERRIFIED I wouldn't like it. Boy was I wrong.
I found myself reading, and loving, the first chapter. I was introduced to Lexi Hamilton, a girl being newly Branded. In Lexi's world, which while I found absolutely horrible was actually quite fascinating, for every deadly sin there is a different color for the Brand.
So Lexi is branded with blue for lust. This was only in the first chapter mind you. This book went quickly but not too quickly, and I hung on every last word I could practically hear it echo in my ears.
What I found most beautiful was the love Lexi had for her father. This is introduced very early on in the story.
"You can overcome anything short of death"
I feel like in today's world father's are butchered, and while I had a totally crappy one, Lexi's love for her father even though he was dead warmed my heart like nothing in any story had ever done before.
Then we are introduced to Cole and I was like
HOT DAMN HELLO THERE
So yeah Cole is a little jerky in the beginning but its nothing we cannot over look!
Since Lexi is branded, blue for lust, she is sent to the Hole. Just about the most disgusting place on the face of the planet. Reading about the Hole the writing was so incredible I could almost smell the bile and feel the scum on my skin. The Hole is where all the Branded sinners live in a hell like harmony in which they work and are basically left to die, with asshole guards ( Except for Cole and Bruno ) to watch over them.
Right away things are horrible for Lexi. She is marked as a slut because of her blue brand and her being a beautiful girl gets her lots of unwanted attention from the other branded pigs.
Cole is the (OMG SO FREAKING SUPER DUPER SEXY) guard in charge of watching over her and keep her alive. Lexi begins to work in the hospital. Which is just as disgusting as the rest of The Hole. Whenever Lexi cried in her dark grimy room in the middle of the night because she was too terrified and couldn't sleep I found myself right there with her and we were crying on each other's shoulders.
At the hospital Lexi meets Sutton, the only doctor there who Lexi looks up to as a father figure and Alyssa. A young girl dying from a deadly virus.
Every time Lexi's heart broke mine broke right along with hers. I have never felt so connected with a character before the way I was with Lexi. The similarities just kept coming. From her appearance, crazy curly hair, to her love of life. I would read a page say something out loud and the first thing on the next page Lexi would say exactly what I did.
As the story progressed I found myself flipping pages so fast I had to actually slow down because I wanted to savor the book! As you can imagine with a hottie like Cole around the attraction between the two grow despite knowing the consequences of having a relationship. Because I mean....he's Cole. And they fall in love. He's my baby.
Cole was one of my favorite characters because he was the most realistic male I've read about in a long time! He wasn't about the nonsense he was real straightforward and overall really cared about Lexi. I loved him.
And then there's ZEUS KING OF ALL THE SEXY BADASS DOGS. IDK i found myself liking Zeus more than everyone else sometimes! I hope he gets a doggy girlfriend!
Throughout the story because of Lexi's brand she often gets very inappropriately sexually harassed. As you might imagine the super perfect Cole wasn't ok with this. But no spoilers! I promise!
What I loved about this story was that from the beginning you know Lexi is innocent, and should not have been Branded, but it takes you a while to figure out why she was branded if she was innocent. I loved watching her back story unravel bit by bit because whereas in other stories once the back story is reveled it's revealed in one shot. Lexi gave us pieces of herself little by little that we had to eventually put together like a puzzle. I loved getting to know Lexi. I felt like I was meeting another version of myself. I loved her. She was one of the very few female protagonists I found myself not hating.
Lexi was abused, attacked, and battered. I admired her strength and will and wish at times that I could be a little more like Lexi. She was definitely a character I admired. A lot.
The writing craft was...oh my god. Beautiful. It was beautiful in depth but simple in a way that it was realistic so that the readers could relate to the writing. Lexi's mind was this complex thing that as you read found yourself easily dissecting because of enthralled you were by the story. I loved the way she expressed herself. I loved the way Lexi presented herself to the world everyday. The world couldn't break her nor would she let it.
I'm not a huge fan of books with two authors because the writing style doesn't blend in and sounds like the two authors are fighting over how to write their story. In branded it wasn't like that the writing went smoothly and blended in I couldn't believe two people worked together on it.
I only finished the book yesterday so excuse my horrible review I'm still mind blown and speechless!
At the end of the story Lexi decides its time to fight back. And she does with great success despite her great losses. Can I just say while reading the last 50 pages the entire time I was screaming
HOLY EFFIN PLOT TWIST! JESUS I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!
Finally, I came the end of this excellent read and I had to do a double take because I didn't believe it was the last page.
Branded was on like anything I've read before. It was a book with a great story line and even greater depth because it told us of a girl that didn't let the brand on her neck define who she was. She refused to be rendered helpless by the ruthless government that ruled over her, and like her father, she fought for what she believed in. She wanted change and she was willing to put her life in danger for it. She wanted something and Lexi worked for it. Lexi is the kind of character that deserves to be praised and admired for her great qualities.
I'm still mind blown I had not expected to love this book so much. I had not expect for it to change my outlook on things the way it did. It is a fantastic read no matter what your taste in reading. Branded has a little bit of everything for everyone.
Branded was filled with forbidden romance, unique characters, a phenomenal story line, heart pounding action, nerve wrecking suspense and moments that could take your heart melt it, and warm it at the same exact time. Read it. It was worthy of every single star I rated it. Anything less would have been unfitting. Go get your copy! You'll love it just as much as I did maybe even more, you know. If it's possible ;)
October 18, 2023
You know how you're always told to never judge a book by its cover…
Well I’m guilty as charged.
After having several people recommended this book I was a little skeptical about actually reading it because the cover to me was a little cheesy… Oh boy am I eating my words now. I read this book in just a few hours because I was so pulled in by its story line. I loved the characters,
how it flowed, and how different Abi and Missy really made this book. I am a serious lover of all ya/dystopian novels (borderline obsessed if you couldn't guess) and I really think this was such a different and creative spin on the dystopian world and how it could be.
The seven deadly sins is such a unique spin on this ever growing genre. In Branded "sinners" or people accused of sinning are automatically thrown into the Hole and forced to live and work there. When Lexi is accused of LUST she has the same fate as the rest. She is tattooed with a giant blue lace patterned strip around her throat. In the Hole every color stands for something different.
Lust – blue
Gluttony – orange
Greed – yellow
Sloth – black
Wrath – red
Envy – green
Pride – purple
Lexi Hamilton is a character I loved. She is the perfect combination of both fierce and broken. They make it clear from the get go that she hasn't committed the crime she's accused of but where she's from it doesn't matter. Lexi is assigned her own guard, Cole. Clearly she and Cole fall in love. AND IT'S IN THE CUTEST WAY EVER!!! When her and Cole meet all he sees is her brand and treats her the way you think he would... AS A TOTAL D! He also informs her that Blues never last in the Hole.
Cole, however, seems to soften and be kind to her and in such a
terrible place, as a connection forms between them. She
has to rely on him constantly and he literally saves her life, like all the time. As the story goes on we learn Lexi has a terrible background story. When Lexi's story unfolds it was really hard to read about because it's such a sad tale. She was neglected, starved, abandoned and abused. As
Cole and Lexi become closer and she tries to find ways she can share the "ugly" parts of herself.
After a series of unfortunate events happen he discovers how she really is and the romance begins. Branded is a story that relies heavily on romance, and I aint mad about it.
Before I talk more about Cole I guess I should mention that relationships, of course, between guards and sinners is forbidden. So their relationship has to be kept on the DL. SWOON! Forbidden love my fav!
Cole though... Whoosh! Even with him being a jerk at first you'll still love him. He turns out to be thoughtful, sweet and HOT! So SO hot. The way he is always kicking butt for Lexi had me swooning all over the place. The sub characters in this book hold their own and one had me in tears (can't give out details because spoils). The setting of this story is described so well and I loved everything about it. Branded does dip a little on the dark side compared to most ya books, but it was something that I liked and it was nice to break the mundane.
The relationships both romantic and friendly, are so intense and well laid out. The thing this book really had going for it was how fast paced it was. From start to finish there is never a dull moment. There are perfect twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat.
Branded surprised me on so many levels and is at the top of my favorites list. I can't freaking wait till Hunted comes out.
Well I’m guilty as charged.
After having several people recommended this book I was a little skeptical about actually reading it because the cover to me was a little cheesy… Oh boy am I eating my words now. I read this book in just a few hours because I was so pulled in by its story line. I loved the characters,
how it flowed, and how different Abi and Missy really made this book. I am a serious lover of all ya/dystopian novels (borderline obsessed if you couldn't guess) and I really think this was such a different and creative spin on the dystopian world and how it could be.
The seven deadly sins is such a unique spin on this ever growing genre. In Branded "sinners" or people accused of sinning are automatically thrown into the Hole and forced to live and work there. When Lexi is accused of LUST she has the same fate as the rest. She is tattooed with a giant blue lace patterned strip around her throat. In the Hole every color stands for something different.
Lust – blue
Gluttony – orange
Greed – yellow
Sloth – black
Wrath – red
Envy – green
Pride – purple
Lexi Hamilton is a character I loved. She is the perfect combination of both fierce and broken. They make it clear from the get go that she hasn't committed the crime she's accused of but where she's from it doesn't matter. Lexi is assigned her own guard, Cole. Clearly she and Cole fall in love. AND IT'S IN THE CUTEST WAY EVER!!! When her and Cole meet all he sees is her brand and treats her the way you think he would... AS A TOTAL D! He also informs her that Blues never last in the Hole.
Cole, however, seems to soften and be kind to her and in such a
terrible place, as a connection forms between them. She
has to rely on him constantly and he literally saves her life, like all the time. As the story goes on we learn Lexi has a terrible background story. When Lexi's story unfolds it was really hard to read about because it's such a sad tale. She was neglected, starved, abandoned and abused. As
Cole and Lexi become closer and she tries to find ways she can share the "ugly" parts of herself.
After a series of unfortunate events happen he discovers how she really is and the romance begins. Branded is a story that relies heavily on romance, and I aint mad about it.
Before I talk more about Cole I guess I should mention that relationships, of course, between guards and sinners is forbidden. So their relationship has to be kept on the DL. SWOON! Forbidden love my fav!
Cole though... Whoosh! Even with him being a jerk at first you'll still love him. He turns out to be thoughtful, sweet and HOT! So SO hot. The way he is always kicking butt for Lexi had me swooning all over the place. The sub characters in this book hold their own and one had me in tears (can't give out details because spoils). The setting of this story is described so well and I loved everything about it. Branded does dip a little on the dark side compared to most ya books, but it was something that I liked and it was nice to break the mundane.
The relationships both romantic and friendly, are so intense and well laid out. The thing this book really had going for it was how fast paced it was. From start to finish there is never a dull moment. There are perfect twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat.
Branded surprised me on so many levels and is at the top of my favorites list. I can't freaking wait till Hunted comes out.
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