Shattered Dreams and Tragic Loss

Oleander Fallows is haunted by the memory of a car accident that claimed her family, leaving her as the sole survivor. This traumatic event is not just a dream but a memory she cannot escape. Her parents and their Bonded partners were her world, and their loss left her feeling isolated and burdened with guilt. The accident was a pivotal moment, marking the end of her sense of normalcy and safety. Oleander's struggle with her gift, which she couldn't control during the accident, adds to her self-loathing and the weight of survival.

Captured and Confronted by Fate

Five years after the accident, Oleander is forcibly taken by a Tactical Response Team and brought to Oregon. She is accused of running away from her Bonded, a rare and frowned-upon act in their society. Oleander is defiant, knowing she had valid reasons for leaving, but she cannot reveal them without endangering herself and others. Her captors, including a man named Brian Noakes, are determined to keep her under control, even implanting a GPS tracker in her neck. Oleander's resolve is tested as she faces the consequences of her actions and the oppressive expectations of her Bonds.

A World of Unyielding Bonds

Oleander is thrust into a world where her Bonds, the people she is fated to be with, view her with contempt. She is forced to attend Draven University, where she is ostracized by her peers and monitored closely by her Bonds, particularly North Draven, a powerful and controlling figure. Despite the hostility, Oleander finds solace in her friendship with Sage, a fellow student who understands the pain of a fractured bond. Together, they navigate the challenges of their environment, finding strength in their shared experiences.

The Struggle for Autonomy

Oleander grapples with the constraints placed upon her by her Bonds and the society that demands her compliance. She is determined to maintain her autonomy, even as she is forced to attend classes and adhere to strict rules. Her interactions with her Bonds are fraught with tension, particularly with North, who exerts his influence to control her life. Despite the pressure, Oleander remains defiant, refusing to submit to the expectations of her Bonds and the society that seeks to bind her.

A Friend Amidst the Chaos

Amidst the chaos of her new life, Oleander forms a deep bond with Sage, a fellow student who is also struggling with her own bond issues. Sage's kindness and understanding provide Oleander with a much-needed sense of belonging and support. Together, they face the challenges of their environment, finding strength in their friendship. Sage's presence is a beacon of hope for Oleander, reminding her that she is not alone in her fight for autonomy and acceptance.

The Maze of Survival

Oleander faces a grueling test in her Tactical Training class, where she must navigate a dangerous maze filled with obstacles and threats. The experience is a physical and mental challenge, pushing her to her limits. Despite the odds stacked against her, Oleander's determination and resilience shine through as she fights to survive. The maze is a metaphor for her life, a constant struggle to overcome the barriers placed in her path by her Bonds and the society that seeks to control her.

A Haunting Encounter in Darkness

In the depths of the maze, Oleander encounters a grotesque creature, a nightmarish figure that clings to her with a deathly grip. Despite her fear, Oleander's survival instincts kick in, and she fights back with all her might. The struggle leaves her battered and bruised, but she manages to escape the creature's clutches. This encounter is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in her world, both physical and psychological, as she navigates the treacherous path laid out before her.

A Night of Unyielding Tension

Oleander's night is filled with tension as she navigates the complex dynamics of her Bonds. Zoey's betrayal during the Tactical Training class adds to the strain, highlighting the fractured relationships and underlying animosities. Oleander's interactions with her Bonds are fraught with unresolved emotions and unspoken truths, creating an atmosphere of unease. As the night unfolds, Oleander is forced to confront the reality of her situation and the challenges she must overcome to find her place in this world.

A Bond's Unexpected Arrival

Atlas, Oleander's final Bond, arrives unexpectedly, bringing with him a sense of hope and support. His presence is a welcome relief amidst the chaos, offering Oleander a glimpse of what a true partnership could be. Atlas's unwavering belief in Oleander's strength and goodness provides her with the encouragement she needs to continue fighting for her autonomy. His arrival marks a turning point in Oleander's journey, as she begins to see the possibility of a future where she is not alone.

A Desperate Escape Attempt

In a daring attempt to escape the confines of her life, Oleander finds herself caught in a dangerous situation. The Resistance's attack on the campus forces her to confront the reality of her circumstances and the lengths she must go to protect herself and those she cares about. As she navigates the chaos, Oleander's resolve is tested, and she must rely on her instincts and newfound allies to survive. This pivotal moment underscores the stakes of her struggle and the courage required to fight for her freedom.

The Unleashing of Hidden Power

In a moment of desperation, Oleander taps into her hidden power, unleashing a force that changes the course of events. Her gift, long suppressed and feared, becomes a tool of survival and defiance. This revelation is both a blessing and a curse, as Oleander grapples with the implications of her abilities and the responsibility they entail. Her newfound power is a double-edged sword, offering both protection and danger as she navigates the complexities of her world and her Bonds.

Characters

Oleander Fallows

Oleander's journey is marked by her struggle for autonomy and the weight of her past. Her encounters with the grotesque creature and the challenges of the maze highlight her resilience and determination. Despite the hostility she faces, Oleander remains defiant, refusing to be defined by her circumstances. Her relationships with her Bonds are complex and fraught with tension, but her friendship with Atlas offers a glimmer of hope and support. Oleander's hidden power is both a source of strength and a burden, as she navigates the challenges of her world.

North Draven

North's influence over Oleander's life is both oppressive and complex. His position on the Council and his wealth give him significant power, which he uses to control Oleander's actions and decisions. Despite his cold demeanor, there are moments where his actions suggest a deeper complexity, hinting at a potential for growth and change. North's relationship with Oleander is fraught with tension, as he grapples with his own feelings and the expectations of their society.

Sage Benson

Sage's friendship with Oleander is a source of strength and support, providing her with a much-needed sense of belonging. Despite her own struggles, Sage remains steadfast in her loyalty to Oleander, standing by her side in the face of adversity. Her courage and resilience are evident in her actions, as she navigates the challenges of their world. Sage's presence is a beacon of hope for Oleander, reminding her that she is not alone in her fight for autonomy and acceptance.

Gabriel (Gabe)

Gabe's relationship with Oleander is marked by tension and unresolved emotions. Despite his feelings of betrayal, Gabe remains protective of Oleander, willing to put himself in danger to ensure her safety. His interactions with Oleander are complex, as he grapples with his own feelings and the expectations of their society. Gabe's presence in Oleander's life is both a source of conflict and support, as they navigate the challenges of their bond.

Nox Draven

Nox's actions are driven by a need to assert control and punish Oleander for her perceived betrayal. His interactions with Oleander are marked by a dangerous intensity, as he seeks to force a bond with her. Despite his antagonistic behavior, there are hints of a deeper complexity to his character, suggesting that his motivations may be more nuanced than they appear. Nox's presence in Oleander's life is a constant source of tension and danger.

Atlas Bassinger

Atlas's arrival in Oleander's life brings a sense of hope and stability. His unwavering belief in Oleander's strength and goodness provides her with the encouragement she needs to continue fighting for her autonomy. Atlas's presence is a welcome relief amidst the chaos, offering Oleander a glimpse of what a true partnership could be. His support is crucial in Oleander's journey, as she begins to see the possibility of a future where she is not alone.

Plot Devices

The Gifted Society

The Gifted society is a complex and hierarchical world, where bonds and abilities dictate one's place and value. Oleander's struggle for autonomy is set against the backdrop of this society, where her actions are scrutinized and judged. The societal expectations and pressures are a constant source of tension, driving the narrative and Oleander's internal conflict.

The Maze

The maze in the Tactical Training class is a physical representation of Oleander's internal struggle. The obstacles and threats she faces in the maze mirror the challenges she encounters in her life, pushing her to her limits and testing her resilience. The maze serves as a powerful metaphor for Oleander's journey, highlighting her determination to overcome the barriers placed in her path.

Oleander's Hidden Power

Oleander's hidden power is both a blessing and a curse, offering protection and danger as she navigates the complexities of her world. Her ability to unleash this power in moments of desperation is a crucial plot device, driving the narrative and shaping her relationships with her Bonds. The revelation of her gift is a turning point in Oleander's journey, as she grapples with the implications of her abilities and the responsibility they entail.

Analysis

"Broken Bonds" by J. Bree is a compelling exploration of resilience, autonomy, and the complexities of human relationships. Through Oleander's journey, the narrative delves into themes of loss, survival, and the struggle for independence in a world that seeks to control and define individuals by their bonds. The book challenges societal norms and expectations, highlighting the importance of self-discovery and the courage to defy oppressive systems. Oleander's story is a testament to the power of friendship, the strength found in vulnerability, and the transformative potential of embracing one's true self. The narrative's rich character development and intricate plot devices create a captivating and thought-provoking tale that resonates with readers, offering valuable insights into the human condition and the enduring quest for freedom and identity.

Last updated: April 16, 2025