A Thousand Pieces of You by Claudia Gray

Title: A Thousand Pieces of You
Author: Claudia Gray
ISBN: 9780062278968
Publisher: HarperCollins
Released: November 04, 2014
Series: Firebird #1
Page #: 357
Source: My own copy

Summary:
"Marguerite Caine grew up surrounded by cutting-edge scientific theories, thanks to her brilliant physicist parents. Yet nothing is more astounding than her mother's latest invention - a device called the Firebird, which allows people to leap into alternate dimensions.

When Marguerite's father is murdered, all the evidence points to one person - Paul, her parents' enigmatic star student. Before the law can touch him, Paul escapes into another dimension, having committed what seems like the perfect crime. But he didn't count on Marguerite. She doesn't know if she can kill a man, but she's going to find out.

With the help of another physics student, Theo, Marguerite chases Paul through various dimensions. In each new world Marguerite leaps to, she meets another version of Paul that has her doubting his guilt and questioning her heart. Is she doomed to repeat the same betrayal?

As Marguerite races through these wildly different lives - a grand duchess in a Tsarist Russia, a club-hopping orphan in a futuristic London, a refugee from worldwide flooding on a station in the heart of the ocean - she is swept into an epic love affair as dangerous as it is irresistible."
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First Lines:

"My hand shakes as I brace myself against the brick wall. Rain falls cold and sharp against my skin, from a sky I've never seen before. It's hard to catch my breath, to get any sense of where I am. All I know is that the Firebird worked."
Page 1
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Review:

Dimension jumping to find your dad's murderer? Could you get anything more intense??

Marguerite's parents are scientists. Physicists, to be exact. She's always lived in a home with big thinkers... students of life... and some actual students of her parents. Her mother has found a way to allow a person to jump dimensions, but it's been used for evil. Marguerite's father was just murdered and the man responsible has stolen one of the dimension jumping devices (a Firebird) and he's lost to them now. She teams up with one of her parent's students set out to see if they can find him and bring him to justice.

Everything about this book blew my mind. In the best possible way. The whole concept of alternate dimensions that play out every other possible decision you've made (and everyone else in the world), is just completely mind blowing. There are dimensions where you didn't forgive that one friend and it changed the course of things. There are dimensions where your parents didn't meet - you can't visit those, you don't exist. There are dimensions where your ancestor didn't make it to America, so you're welcome to visit their lives in Russia. I mean, ANYTHING! It's crazy and the possibilities are endless. I think that's what makes this idea really cool for a book - they could literally go anywhere.

In that vein, this book is set in so many places, it was probably really fun to write. An extremely tech savvy London. An extremely backwards Russia. A legit water world. And even one dimension that was so close to her own, Marguerite had some trouble identifying the differences. Can you imagine all of those things happening simultaneously and all you need is one little device to visit them all? It doesn't hurt that her parents are brilliant and they have the ability to open up these possibilities for her.

But it's not just about jumping around to see what's happening. She's searching for the man who murdered her father. A man she trusted. A man her parents trusted. A man that she becomes less and less convinced is guilty. In each new world, they have to find each other to figure things out. There's a larger tech organization that is involved in this whole scandal as well, but how deeply? As soon as one mystery is figured out, another one pops up. This book definitely kept me on my toes.

I'm not sure if this is going to become a series. This book wrapped up nicely and everything was figured out. No real cliffhangers here - which I highly appreciate. But it makes me wonder if there will be more about the Firebird. More about the possibilities. I've seen a few places that this is listed as #1, so I am hoping for more. I honestly think this is the best thing that has been written by Claudia Gray. I'm definitely up for another installment if there is going to be one. I'm highly recommending this one as it is.
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Other Blog Reviews:

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The Infinite Sea by Rick Yancey

Title: The Infinite Sea
Author: Rick Yancey
ISBN: 9780399162428
Publisher: G.P Putnam's Sons
Released: September 16, 2014
Series: 5th Wave #2
Page #: 300
Source: My public library

Summary:
"How do you rid the earth of seven billion humans?
Rid the humans of their humanity.

Cassie Sullivan and her companions lived through the Others' four waves of destruction. Now, with the human race nearly exterminated and the 5th Wave rolling across the landscape, they face a choice: brace for winter and hope for Evan Walker's return, or set out in search of other survivors before the enemy closes in. Because the next attack is more than possible - it's inevitable.

No one can anticipate the depths to which the Others will sink, nor the heights to which humanity will rise, in the ultimate battle between life and death, hope and despair, love and hate."
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First Lines:

"The world is a clock winding down.
I hear it in the wind's icy fingers scratching against the window. I smell it in the mildewed carpeting and the rotting wallpaper of the old hotel. And I feel it in Teacup's chest as she sleeps."
Page 1
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Review:

The 5th Wave books certainly pack a punch. A well-thought-out, jarring, sense of despair punch. Also, if you haven't read the first book, then this will certainly have spoilers. If you haven't read it, then I'm not sure what you're doing with your life. So get on it!!

Cassie has finally fulfilled one promise, but she's made another. And now that she has more people to look out for, things have become even more complicated. There are new threats and enemies that they could have never imagined. Part of their group gets split up and now they aren't even sure who is alive. It's time to make a plan, but every possible road has a horrifying outcome. Things are looking dire with not much chance of survival.

I was absolutely in love with the first book in this series. The entire concept of an alien race coming and slowly chipping away at the human population was sincerely frightening. I mean, that seems like something that could actually happen - and in the most terrifying way. So I was in... hook, line, and sinker. It initially had me confused with some of the varying points of view, but that didn't keep me from falling for that book hard.

The second book here is just as action-packed, just as terrifying, just as intense. It's one of those books that I found myself reading too fast because I wanted to find out what was going to happen. There were several times I had to stop and say, "wait, WHAT?!" I definitely spent some time backtracking to verify things that I couldn't remember. Like... "When did she get a gun back?" or "Did that guy get shot? When?!" and "Who did that? I thought it was... oooohhhh." I don't think it had anything to do with the way the book was written - but entirely in my reading skills. I was just reading too quickly and that sort of shot me in the foot here (get it? shot in the foot... like, there are tons of people getting shot ... Whatever.)

There were a few times that I felt sort of dumb reading this book - not just because of the constant flipping back and forth. There were terms used that I couldn't define and that I couldn't even get with the context clues. I mean, that's a good thing... having to look up words and learning things. But in my hurry to read this book, I kind of felt like an idiot. Basically it made me think this author is brilliant and is down for challenging his readers.

Honestly, this is the perfect second book. No sophomore slump here! I was just trolling the internet about this series and came across the movie news... which I can only imagine could be amazing! You know I'll be first in line to see that! Yeah, I know it's slated for 2016, but I girl can dream! These books really read like an action movie, so I can't wait to see what they do on the big screen.

I have come to the conclusion that this series has no actual main character. There are about four or five of them. This book has more skipping around, but there's a huge part that takes place without Cassie - who I would have considered the main character before this. It's kind of a cool way to tell a story because there are so many varying storylines happening, but it does sometimes get confusing. There's one sort of revelation from Ringer toward the end that I'm still trying to wrap my head around... and if it's true! I'm still shaking my head in admiration.

I've obviously read the first two books too quickly. It looks like the third one doesn't come out for like a year. But I'm still going to recommend them to literally everyone. I have labeled these as sci-fi, but I think it's a great crossover series. People who have been into that whole dystopian thing will probably drool all over these books. I'm sure most people have already read them, but I cannot WAIT to put them in the hands of a few people. Bravo, Mr. Yancey. Anxiously awaiting #3!
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Other Blog Reviews:

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The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey

Title: The 5th Wave
Author: Rick Yancey
ISBN: 9780399162411
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers
Released: May 07, 2014
Series: Fifth Wave #1
Page #: 457
Source: My public library

Summary:
"After the 1st Wave, only darkness remains.
After the 2nd, only the lucky escape.
And after the 3rd, only the unlucky survive. After the 4th Wave, just one rule applies: trust no one.

Now it's the dawn of the 5th Wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from them. The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see. Who have scattered Earth's last survivors. To stay alone is to stay alive, Cassie believes, until she meets Evan Walker. Beguiling and mysterious, Evan may be Cassie's only hope for rescuing her brother - or even saving herself. But Cassie must choose: between trust and despair, between life and death. To give up or to get up."
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First Lines:

"Aliens are stupid.
I'm not talking about real aliens. The Others aren't stupid. The Others are so far ahead of us, it's like comparing the dumbest human to the smartest dog. No contest."
Page 1
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Review:

Why it took me so long to get around to this book, I have no idea. I even had an advanced copy that I sat on for too long. I imagine it had something to do with how much publisher pop there was about it - sometimes that's off-putting. But luckily this book was wonderful!! And I wish I had read it earlier.

So, Cassie is living in a world without anything. Literally. No people. Very little stuff. The only objectives are to not die and find her brother. It's a pretty grim existence - especially when she knows that the Others are always looking for her. When she's shot by one of them, the whole game changes. She still has to fulfill her promise to find her little brother, but it seems almost impossible... except that now she has an ally. A reluctant ally, but an ally nonetheless.

I've been gushing about this book to everyone since I finished it yesterday. Like, I think people are sick of me talking about it. It's been a while since I've read a book that I'm this excited about. I'm just really glad I was required to read this book for work - otherwise I may have totally missed out! Or, you know, just waited way too long (as though now isn't too long).

Also, I have been wracking my brain to remember the last time I read an alien book. If ever. I mean, I'm sure I have, but I guess this felt like it was a whole new thing for me. Obviously not new... but thinking about the different ways that an extraterrestrial species could make the human race extinct... well, it was fascinating. And all so valid! It makes me want to buy a farm out in the middle of nowhere in a place that's easily defensible.

Sometimes multiple characters makes me irritated, but the way this book dealt with that was perfect. All of the characters are in vastly different situations and there is a clear line when you've crossed into someone else's storyline. I was a little confused after the first one - didn't realize I was hearing someone else's story, but it smoothed out really quickly. Plus, I love that it's not set characters that you hear from every other chapter. Each switch in character uncovers something new, something unexpected. It's really fabulous.

I'm not going to tell you what happens in the end, but I love books that end this way. The whole thing felt like I was watching a video game unfold. That's the same sort of ending that I've absolutely loved in other books and this one does it well. It may be that I loved it more because I didn't realize that we were building into something that major. It seems like almost a quiet book up until you realize what has been going on... and then people start fighting back! It's awesome. Really.

I did have a couple of questions as I read through the book - like... how is it that everyone is calling things the same terminology when they have no way to communicate it? How did everyone decide how many waves they have really had? I mean, some may not have experienced the Silencers... so they're still on the 3rd Wave, right? I'm hoping the 2nd book addresses some of this. And why middle America can see the space ship in the sky... what if you're in Australia? Is there a different ship? Is it far enough away that everyone can see it (not possible with the other side of the world...). So I guess there were a few things that left me wanting more explanation.

The next book in this series comes out next month and you better believe that I'll be getting it. Stat. I have already (and will continue to so) recommended this book to all of my YA readers around me. I'm really interested to see what they think about it. While it's an alien invasion book overall, I think it carries so many different themes that anyone can get into it. At least, in my opinion. :)
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NIL by Lynne Matson

Title: NIL

Author: Lynne Matson
ISBN: 9780805097719
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Released: March 4, 2014
Page #: 374
Source: ARC from publisher

Summary:
"On the mysterious island of Nil, the rules are set. You have one year. Exactly 365 days - to escape - or you die.

Seventeen-year-old Charley doesn't know the rules. She doesn't even know where she is. The last thing she remembers is blacking out. When she wakes up she's lying naked in an empty rock field.

Lost and alone, Charley can find no sign of other people until she meets Thad, the gorgeous leader of a clan of teenage refugees. Soon Charley learns that leaving the island is harder than she thought... and so is falling in love. With Thad's time running out, Charley realizes that to save their future, Charley must first save him. And on an island rife with hidden dangers, their greatest threat is time."
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First Lines: (Quoted from galley, see final version for edits)

"Heat.
Inexplicable, consuming heat - choking like smoke, burning like fire.
That was my last memory before the invisible flames spiked into icy nothingness, along with the crazy thought that if I survived this bewildering bonfire, my dad would freak when I was late returning his new car."
Page 1
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Review:

Yep, pretty sure this is my favorite book of 2014. So this is me attempting to review this title without gushing too much.

NIL might be an alternate universe. It might be a random island that is unexplored. It might be a nightmare. No matter what, the people who are sent there only have one year until they either catch a gate back to the real world... or they die. Gates aren't easy to catch and they're certainly sporatic... sometimes the search for them drives people nuts. This is the world the Charley gets pulled into, whether she wants to or not. Luckily, there are people who have been there longer and help her figure out what's going on. In particular, Thad... the insanely attractive leader who takes her under his wing.

I really sort of hate it when books are compared to others, but I'm gonna do it here anyway. It's just so obvious! This book is a cross between The Maze Runner and Lord of the Flies. I was thinking about listing the ways they're similar, but that would take the entire review. I think at the core, NIL has that feeling of desperation you get in some of the best books... people in dire situations trying to figure out how to escape. It pulls you into that feeling seamlessly and doesn't let go until literally the last page.

Oh Charley... I wish we were best friends. She seems like the coolest person in the world. I had a little bit of a hard time buying the whole "I don't know I'm beautiful" thing she did with Thad, but otherwise I really loved her. She's inquisitive and accepting of the things that happen to her. That makes her a really strong contender in the world of NIL. And she's just straight up a survivor. I have a teeny obsession with maps, so her whole map-making focus made me happy.

This was one of the first times when I truly thought the story benefitted from the dual perspectives. There's a lot you learn about NIL through Thad's chapters. Things that you wouldn't understand without them. He knows about the land, he understands the cruelty that is NIL, and his relationships with previous inhabitants brings a whole different light to the things that happen.

Obviously I'm not going to tell you how this book ends... but I really want to! Because it's insane!! I've got a list of people in my head that I'm going to make read this book... just so I can discuss the ending with them. Hopefully they will all get the same feels I did. And there were a BUNCH! Now... it seems like this is a stand-alone book. I'm kind of hoping that it is. We need more amazing single volume stories like this! We'll see if there's more to come (you know I'd read it no matter what).

This is the book I walked around with in case I might find a second to read. This is the book I read while I paced around the room yelling "oh my god!!!". This is the book that basically made me stop breathing while I waited for the end. Are you getting that I think everyone should read it? That's what I was going for.
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Loop by Shandy Lawson

Title: Loop
Author: Shandy Lawson
ISBN: 9781423160892
Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children
Page #: 
Released: April 30, 2013
Source: ARC from the publisher:

Summary:

"Ben and Maggie have met, fallen in love, and died together countless times. Over the course of two pivotal day—both the best and worst of their lives—they struggle again and again to resist the pull of fate and the force of time itself. With each failure, they return to the beginning of their end, a wild road trip that brings them to the scene of their own murders and into the hands of the man who is destined to kill them.

As time circles back on itself, events become more deeply ingrained, more inescapable for the two kids trapped inside the loop. The closer they come to breaking out, the tighter fate's clutches seem to grip them. They devise a desperate plan to break free and survive the days ahead, but what if Ben and Maggie's only shot at not dying is surviving apart?"
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First Lines:

"'This is it, Ben.' Maggie's eyes were wide, pupils big and black like puddles of ink. 'This is when it happens.' Her gaze bores into me. 'We can hide, or we can fight.'"
Page 1
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Review:

This book was recommended by one of my colleagues. It's about people who get stuck in time loops and can't figure out how to get out - specifically two teens who start to change things each time they live through these couple of days.

Ben and Maggie are stuck in a loop. They have lived the same few days over and over - enough times that they can't even count them. At first it just felt like de ja vu... now they know it's something very different. The kicker is that they get killed at the end of these days each time. Now they have started changing things. Little things to see if they can change the outcome.

What a creepy idea that you might get stuck in a time loop! And to not realize it for a long time... and to realize that you can't get out! There is something so horrific about that, it gives me chills. And hopeless! Who are we to think we can change fate?! That whole idea is what made this book really hit me. There were things that felt off to me, but in all... it's a gripping story.

One of the things that I found interesting was the perspective switch over halfway through the book. I sort of understand why, but I had to reread through that chapter a couple of times before I realized what had happened. You're now looking through Maggie's eyes... and you're reliving the loop the next time. Which I am glad we didn't rehash every tiny detail. The other issue I had was the ending. So, without spoiling it... there was just something very anticlimactic about it. There is a little burst of excitement and drama, but then nothing. I guess I just wanted more out of it.

There is a chance that I was just analyzing things too carefully. I knew the gist of the story from my colleague, so I was probably analyzing each thing the characters did so carefully - in case I missed something important. But I think this book is written in a way that will have readers really question reality and time. There's something to be said for that. And I think many teens will find this whole concept mind blowing. 

While this book doesn't go in the favorite pile for me, it definitely stands up. It's a short book, so I do feel like some things could have been fleshed out even more. But I think the story packs a punch and will leave you feeling breathless.
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Other Blog Reviews:


Candace's Book Blog
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Ruby's Reads
Badass Book Reviews
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Rush by Eve Silver

Title: Rush
Author: Eve Silver
ISBN: 9780062272805
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Series: The Game #1
Released: June 11, 2013
Duration: 9 hours, 31 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:
"So what's the game now?
This, or the life I used to know?

Miki Jones's carefully controlled life spirals into chaos after she's run down in the street, left broken and bloody. She wakes up fully healed in a place called the lobby—pulled from her life, pulled through time and space into some kind of game in which she and a team of other teens are sent on missions to eliminate the Drau, terrifying and beautiful alien creatures.

There are no practice runs, no training, and no way out. Every moment of the game is kill or be killed, and Miki has only the questionable guidance of Jackson Tate, the team's alluring and secretive leader. He evades her questions, holds himself aloof from the others, and claims it's every player for himself. But when he puts himself at risk to watch Miki's back, he leaves her both frustrated and fascinated. Jackson says the game isn't really a game, that what Miki and her new teammates do now determines their survival. And the survival of every other person on this planet. She laughs. He doesn't. And then the game takes a deadly and terrifying turn."
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First Lines:

"MIKI
My head jerks up. My attention narrows. I push off the chain-link fence that marks the limit of school property. 
Page 1
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Review:

The whole concept of this story was super intriguing to me - that someone would die and be thrown into a game instead of an afterlife. Then once the game is done for the moment, they are put back into their old lives. a very interesting idea.

Miki was just trying to save a little girl from being hit by a truck. She found herself in unknown territory... a game where the ultimate price is your life. She has to learn quickly about games and rules and how to stay alive. But there is so much more at stake than what is presented on the surface. She has to battle aliens to complete each challenge, but the biggest challenge is yet to come.

I opted to listen to this book purely because it was available from my library's collection. I have a hard copy around here somewhere, but there's something more thrilling about listening to an action and adventure story. And I think this book was served well because of that.

So, this world that the group of teens is thrown into is much like any video game. There are health bars, you spend points on extra weapons, you have to kill every enemy before the quest is complete, etc. The one kicker is that if you die in the game, you die for real. I sort of enjoy the journey of figuring out all of these things with Miki. There is a discovery element throughout the story that really carries things along.

I was very surprised at how things sort of turned out in the end - that people weren't exactly who they said they were. And that Miki was someone special. That whole part made this book feel much more sci-fi than I was expecting. But it's interesting and I am left wondering how things will turn out in the next book.

I will say that there was one serious drawback about listening to this book. There was something weird about the way the reader finished sentences... or said some of the phrases. It's hard to describe. But it's almost like she was trying to hard to make things sound more teen. I had to convince myself to continue listening just because I wanted to find out what was going to happen. Otherwise I would have probably let it go. If I decide to read the next story, I will probably opt for a physical copy if it's the same reader for the audio.

While there are aspects of this story that I truly liked, I'm not sure how interested I am in following the story in a second book. I know there is one, so we'll have to see. But all in all, I think teens who love those adventure stories that mix in sci-fi elements will really get into this story. It's super crazy and will throw you for a loop.
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Other Blog Reviews:

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The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

Title: The Scorch Trials
Author: James Dashner
ISBN: 9780307706621
Publisher: Random House Children's
Released: October 26, 2010
Series: The Maze Runner #2
Duration: 10 Hours, 23 Minutes
Source: eAudio from my public library

Summary:
"Solving the Maze was supposed to be the end. No more puzzles. No more variables. And no more running. Thomas was sure that escape meant he and the Gladers would get their lives back. But no one really knew what sort of life they were going back to.

In the Maze, life was easy. They had food, and shelter, and safety . . . until Teresa triggered the end. In the world outside the Maze, however, the end was triggered long ago.

Burned by sun flares and baked by a new, brutal climate, the earth is a wasteland. Government has disintegrated--and with it, order--and now Cranks, people covered in festering wounds and driven to murderous insanity by the infectious disease known as the Flare, roam the crumbling cities hunting for their next victim . . . and meal.

The Gladers are far from finished with running. Instead of freedom, they find themselves faced with another trial. They must cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world, and arrive at a safe haven in two weeks. And WICKED has made sure to adjust the variables and stack the odds against them.

Thomas can only wonder--does he hold the secret of freedom somewhere in his mind? Or will he forever be at the mercy of WICKED?"
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First Lines: 

"She spoke to him before the world fell apart. 
Hey, are you still asleep?
Thomas shifted in his bed, felt a darkness around him like air turned solid, pressing in."
Page 1
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Review:

I am sort of depressed that they have pushed back the release date for the Maze Runner movie - which is one of the reasons I am making my way through this series. Alas! But it's still worth reading/listening to.

This second book picks up right where The Maze Runner left off. The boys are outside of the maze, but they still aren't sure where they are. They soon realize that this new life isn't any better than the one they just escaped. Then the boys are dropped into a new horror - a desert land that is full of people who will attack them at first sight. But they have to get through it to be taken to safety.

I think one of my favorite things about this series so far is the mystery. There are so many things that the characters are uncovering as they go along - and you can't trust everything they find out! Often they are being lied to, tricked, and forced to deceive each other. You never know what's going to happen! I think Dashner does that masterfully. He keeps you on your toes and I think that's what makes me continue to get excited about this series.

There are some new characters introduced in this second book. They are mostly picked up from this crazy city they have to get through. Those people really add a whole new layer to the relationships between all of the boys. Speaking of the maze group, some of the sideline characters from the first book become more important. They have dwindled down a bit, so I can imagine the next book will pull them even closer together.

As usual, I get worried going into a second book. There's a lot of the sophomore slump syndrome out there. But this series really doesn't have that problem. Not even a little bit. The story just keeps building in a way that makes the reader wonder what in the world could possibly happen next. It's so well done, I pretty much want to give this book to everyone who hasn't read it yet. I know I'm a little slow on the up-take here, but it really is worth it.

And even though it's been pushed back, I still can't wait to see how these books translate to the big screen. I think there is so much meet in these stories that it could be amazing. So... I know I'm not convincing anyone to read these books, but I totally recommend it. Plus, the audio is REALLY well done. Some of the best that I've listened to. The reader does a great job distinguishing between all of the guys. It's a bit impressive. Anyway... read it. Listen to it. Dashner is a master. Obviously. 
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Other Blog Reviews:

The Book Smugglers
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I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Title: I am Number Four
Author: Pittacus Lore
ISBN: 9780061996795
Publisher: HarperCollins Audio
Released: August 17, 2010
Series: The Lorien Legacies #1
Duration: 11 hours, 32 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:
"Nine of us came here. We look like you. We talk like you. We live among you. But we are not you. We can do things you dream of doing. We have powers you dream of having. We are stronger and faster than anything you have ever seen. We are the superheroes you worship in movies and comic books—but we are real.

Our plan was to grow, and train, and become strong, and become one, and fight them. But they found us and started hunting us first. Now all of us are running. Spending our lives in shadows, in places where no one would look, blending in. we have lived among you without you knowing.

But they know.
They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They killed them all.
I am Number Four.
I am next."
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First Lines:

"The door starts shaking. It's a flimsy thing made of bamboo shoots held together with tattered lengths of twine. The shake is subtle and stops almost immediately."
Page 7
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Review:

I have been keeping an eye on this series for years. But when I was in need of an audiobook and it was available at my library, I decided to finally give it a shot.

Four came to Earth ten years ago with his guardian. They have to keep themselves hidden from a race of aliens that is trying to kill them. Because they have to move around so much, Four has never really stayed at a school long enough to make friends and have a normal life. Now they've moved to Ohio and his new name is John Smith. He starts to actually make a name for himself there - until they realize they may have been found out.

Overall, this is a solid science fiction story. When their planet is being attacked, a ship of some children is sent to another planet to keep the race intact. They have to split up on the new planet because the evil race of aliens is still after them. And now they are all constantly on the move in order to keep themselves safe. It's a cool premise. I'm just not sure about the implementation.

Part of this might be on my reason for putting off this book. I recall there being some controversy about the way this series has been written. The author is, of course, a pseudonym. But the person behind the book is James Fray - the guy who wrote Million Little Pieces. And there seem to be some ghost writers who actually came up with the idea... I don't fully remember. But I was sort of put off by the whole thing and worried that it was just someone else trying to break into YA publishing because it's the hot place to be.

Because that was my mindset, I really tried to put that aside while listening to this story. But then I realized there was something about the way it was being read that put me off as well. The reader used all of these different voices - and most of the time very necessary. But the voices he chose were very cartoon-y. It made it hard to take some of the characters seriously - especially when there were serious things happening. The girls voices were the worst, really. Some of the inflections used weren't how teens really speak... so it took me out of the story a lot.

While I really do think that the premise is totally solid, I feel like the full effect was very Disney. Things wrapped up very comfortably, some of the reactions to things were predictable, and the relationships are a little too cute. I will admit that part of this might be on the fault of the audio reader. But listening to this book has let me know that I don't need to continue this series.

I know there are some science fiction lovers who have really gotten into this series. And more power to them! I know that exciting things happen and I imagine that they are relieved to have a modern scifi option (so much of it is for adults). So I know this will find its audience, but that's just not going to be me. I do feel like I need to see the movie - it seems like that might have worked out better for me. We'll see. :)
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Other Blog Reviews:

Justin's Book Blog
Girl!Reporter
Blog of a Bookaholic
The Bawdy Book Blog
Helen's Book Blog
Darkest Addictions
For What It's Worth
Book, Interrupted
Lucybird's Book Blog
Scarrlet Reader

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Title: Scarlet
Author: Marissa Meyer
ISBN: 9780312642969
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Released: February 5, 2013
Page #: 452
Series: The Lunar Chronicles #2
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling installment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She's trying to break out of prison - even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother of the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, and her prisoner."
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First Lines: (Quote from the ARC, subject to change.)


"Scarlet was descending toward the alley behind the Rieux Tavern when her portscreen chimed from the passenger seat, followed by an automated voice: 'Comm received for Mademoiselle Scarlet Benoit from the Toulouse Law Enforcement Department of Missing Persons.'"
Page 3
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Review:

It took me forever to get to this arc... but I have a reason. I absolutely loved Cinder! I knew that when I received Scarlet, it was still months before it actually would come out. And then I'd have to wait even LONGER for the next book! So I put it on the backburner and made everyone else I know read it first. Now I'm in the same boat with the third book. We'll see when I get to that.

So, this second book focuses on Scarlet's life. She lives on a farm with her grandmother who has recently disappeared. At the same time, a mysterious stranger came to town - named Wolf. He pledges to help her find her grandmother and even has some information about where she might be. They go on a quest to find her and things end up even more messy than before.

I was honestly a little worried about this second book. I loved Cinder so much that I wondered how good a book would be without her as the main character. But the author really pulled it out. Scarlet is much more human, much more emotional, and much more driven than Cinder. She has to find her grandmother and knows that nothing will be right until she does. She even trusts a stranger when no one else steps forward to help her. I will say that I wished Scarlet would stand up for herself much more than she did, but it's understandable in the situations she found herself in.

Even though this was Scarlet's story, Cinder and the Eastern Commonwealth is still very much present in this book. You still see Kai and his struggle against the Lunar Queen. Cinder is exactly where we left her at the end of the first book and you see what becomes of her. It's really brilliant the way the author weaves these stories together. In the first half of the book, it was a little difficult to go back and forth between the two or three story lines, but the ending made it totally worth it.

I sort of loved Wolf's character. He's got that whole damaged, dark, mysterious vibe. We all know that's super appealing. And he plays into it perfectly. I was really worried about his loyalties - I mean, come on... he's the big, bad wolf. But I think he's written very well because you start to really think he's a good guy. And someone Scarlet should trust - even though he basically tells her not to. It's an epic love story!

Marissa Meyer's ability to twist a fairy tale is truly magical. It's seamless. The original story is still really there and obvious, but it's taken to a whole new level. I really think her books should be studied in classes that look at fairy tales. She's truly a master and I am excited to read Cress. If you're still waiting to read Cinder, I suggest you get on that immediately.
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Other Blog Reviews:

Mermaid Vision Books
Melissa's Bookshelf
Snuggly Oranges
Red Reader Reviews
Geek Girl's Book Blog
Reading for Sanity
Helen's Book Blog
Blog of a Bookaholic
The Reading Fish
Istyria Book Blog

Coda by Emma Trevayne

Title: Coda
Author: Emma Trevayne
ISBN: 9780762447282
Publisher: Running Press
Released: May 7, 2013
Page #: 311
Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:
"Deep in an abandoned basement, eighteen-year-old Anthem sings of truth and freedom with his illegal underground band. Yet on the surface and under watchful eyes, Anthem is unable to resist the call of the Corporation's addictive, mind-altering music tracks, even as he knows they are used to control him and his fellow citizens.

When tragedy strikes close to home, Anthem realizes that defying the Corp comes at a deadly price. The key to revolution might lie wit the girl Anthem loves, but will he trust her enough to let her join the fight?"
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First Lines: (Quote from the ARC, subject to change)

"I'm drawn toward the door. I can't hear it yet, but I can feel it. A pulse, a heartbeat. The floor shakes. 
Inside, the cavernous, soundproof room is already packed, black and neon and flashing lights and stifling heat from the crush of bodies."
Page 7
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Review:

I was really excited by this concept when I first picked up this book. Music as a drug given to people by the government? What an insane idea... I was fully intrigued and ready to delve into the story.

So, Anthem is a guy who is low on the totem pole. His job as a conduit is looked down upon by most people - he's just supplying energy to the grid. But he has a huge secret. There is a small group of people he meets and plays music with - which is strictly forbidden. Everyone is hooked on the coded music that is given to them. So much so that they go through withdrawals without it. Then something happens to a friend of Anthem's and he starts to see the world for what it really is.

When I was trying to get my footing at the start of the book, I found myself saying, "This is a character driven story set in a world I don't understand." And I fully felt that for the first, like, half of the book. I was eager to learn about Anthem's life - his family, his girl, his friends, and everything. You really get a big glimpse into his life. But I really didn't understand the world until almost the end of the novel.

I think the author does a good job giving you a snapshot of the lower castes and what they have to do to survive. It's a rough life. They are constantly being watched. They can't talk about certain things. There are tons of restrictions and they die really early. I liked the idea of being able to visit your loved one's lives in a museum/library setting. What a very cool idea. But if you break any of the rules, the government will take away your ability to hear - the worst punishment possible for a world where music is what keeps you going.

Speaking of the drug aspect of this book - I thought it was really interesting to attack the theme of drug use like this. It's a seemingly harmless thing, but people cannot go a few hours without "tracking." And you get several scenes with people ODing and going through withdrawals. I feel like if this was being shown to the readers with an actual drug, this book would be so controversial! And probably not YA. I didn't really contemplate this idea much while I was reading, but now that I think about it, the whole thing was super intense.

Was this book for me? Not really. But I think the teens who are very "down with the man" and music loving will absolutely die for this. It's a smart story that really carries a huge punch. I just felt like I was muddling through a few times. The voice wasn't one I identified with, so it was a little more difficult for me to get all of the feels out of it. I do know that it will be a splash with the right reader.
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Other Blog Reviews:

Chapter By Chapter
The Midnight Garden
Jessabella Reads
Young Adultish
Sister Spooky
The Inbetweeners
Dark Faerie Tales
Once Upon a Bookcase
Bookhounds YA
A.B. Keuser

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Title: The Maze Runner
Author: James Dashner
ISBN: 9780307582911
Publisher: Random House
Released: October 06, 2009
Series: The Maze Runner #1
Duration: 10 hours, 50 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:
"When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his first name. His memory is blank. But he’s not alone. When the lift’s doors open, Thomas finds himself surrounded by kids who welcome him to the Glade—a large, open expanse surrounded by stone walls.

Just like Thomas, the Gladers don’t know why or how they got to the Glade. All they know is that every morning the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night they’ve closed tight. And every 30 days a new boy has been delivered in the lift.

Thomas was expected. But the next day, a girl is sent up—the first girl to ever arrive in the Glade. And more surprising yet is the message she delivers.

Thomas might be more important than he could ever guess. If only he could unlock the dark secrets buried within his mind."
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First Lines:

"He began his new life, surrounded by cold darkness and stale, dusty air.
Metal ground against metal; a lurching shudder shook the floor beneath him."
Page 1 
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Review:

Yep, I'm probably the last person on the planet to read this book. Well, listen to it. I've heard so many rave reviews, that I figured it was probably time. And I have to agree... it's the perfect boy adventure story.

Thomas doesn't remember anything from his life before The Glade. All he knows is that someone is controlling their movements and they have to figure out a way to escape. But he's no ordinary Glader. Some of the boys remember him. And he gets attacked by one of them - saying he remembers him from before. Things are changing - and not for the better. They have to get out before they're all killed by the monsters in the Maze. Thomas just knows that somewhere in his mind is the key to getting them all to safety.

I went into this book knowing it was going to be good. Didn't really know what it was going to be about, but knew I had to read it (listen to it). And I'm so glad that I did! It's now a story that I can't get out of my head. The whole concept of the Glad and knowing that you were sent there by people. People who are now watching you. Waiting to see what you do. It's a creepy concept. But the boys who have been sent there have formed themselves into a working society. They have people who take care of each aspect of life. And they have the runners - the ones who are trying to find a way out. It's a little Lord of the Flies with the boys governing other boys without any sort of adult authority. But that's sort of where the similarities end.

Unfortunately, there's a big, scary threat... the Grievers. Each night they come out into the maze and will kill you if you're caught out there after the walls close each night. And if they do sting you (instead of straight up killing you), then you will go through the Change. None of the boys really understand what the change is, but they know it's scary. And you will get back some memories. But you will never be the same.

The ending is more epic than I ever imagined. There's a huge battle that leaves you breathless and concerned about every character in the story. Thomas grows close with several of the characters and it's very interesting to see how he interacts with each of them. He becomes the central part of the escape. He becomes the one people are scared of. He becomes the one that they can all learn from. Watching that transformation of naive newbie to the end is quite the transformation.

Although everyone on the planet has already read this book, I am definitely recommending it. If you've been putting it off like I have, you should go ahead and get on it. The audiobook was really well done and that is probably the perfect way to get drawn into the story. The reader does a great job with the different boy voices and has a wonderful tempo with the intensity of the story. He really pulls you in without knowing you were being pulled in. I'm definitely on the edge of my seat wondering what happens in the next book - which I'm off to look for now. Again, this is a must read!!
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Other Blog Reviews:

Love, Literature, Art, and Reason
Fangirls of Fiction
Rinn Reads
Readers in Wonderland
Life in the Thumb
Words Can Break Hearts
An Unexpected Book Blog...
Understanding Shae's Story
Reading for Sanity
Project Read and Review

Insignia by S.J. Kincaid

Title: Insignia
Author: S.J. Kincaid
ISBN: 9780062132772
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Released: July 03, 2012
Series: Insignia #1
Duration: 15 hours, 18 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library
 
Summary:
"More than anything, Tom Raines wants to be important, though his shadowy life is anything but that. For years, Tom's drifted from casino to casino with his unlucky gambler of a dad, gaming for their survival. Keeping a roof over their heads depends on a careful combination of skill, luck, con artistry, and staying invisible.

Then one day, Tom stops being invisible. Someone's been watching his virtual-reality prowess, and he's offered the incredible—a place at the Pentagonal Spire, an elite military academy. There, Tom's instincts for combat will be put to the test and if he passes, he'll become a member of the Intrasolar Forces, helping to lead his country to victory in World War III. Finally, he'll be someone important: a superhuman war machine with the tech skills that every virtual-reality warrior dreams of. Life at the Spire holds everything that Tom's always wanted—friends, the possibility of a girlfriend, and a life where his every action matters—but what will it cost him?

Gripping and provocative, S. J. Kincaid's futuristic thrill ride of a debut crackles with memorable characters, tremendous wit, and a vision of the future that asks startling, timely questions about the melding of humanity and technology."

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First Lines:

"New town, new casino - same old plan. Arizona's Dusty Squanto Casino made it easy for Tom Raines, since he didn't even have to pay his way into their virtual reality parlor."
Page 1
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Review:

This is probably the longest audiobook in the entire world. No. I'm sure that's not true, but it sort of felt that way. There were about three or four different stories in this one book. Typically, I'd expect it to be multiple books - a huge series. But really, it's all stuck in this one book. Not in a bad way... just a long way :).

Tom Raines has nothing going for him. His dad is a gambler and they move from place to place - never having a home. His mom is dating some crazy guy who hates Tom. So he's stuck. He plays video games, goes to school online, and doesn't truly have any friends. Then one day he gets tagged for a secret operation. The government wants him - because he is good at video games.

I feel like this storyline is every guy's dream. They already want to play video games 24/7... what if you were part of a semi-secret government organization at the same time?! Perfect. Yep. Every dude's dream. There are things that Tom didn't anticipate - changes they'd make to him. But it's all worth it to become a Intrasolar combat fighter. He just has to get through the academy first.

I loved the backgrounds that were given to each of the characters - everyone had something very unique. I can almost imagine those sorts of people being involved in some government academy. And the personalities really make this story feel fun and realistic. This is sort of the perfect boy book. I'd probably recommend it to any teen boy who loves scifi stuff. It's not super sci-fi-y... so don't get scared off by that. But it's definitely got some of those characteristics.

You really do find yourself cheering for Tom to make it. He's even got some large corporations after him - and not in a good way. He makes a lot of mistakes, but you know he's going to make it. I think it's nice to have a hopeful story like that. It's not so teenage-angsty as a lot of the stuff I've been reading lately. This one felt like it had purpose and heart. You can tell by the way I finished it ;). No, I'm kidding. But I really did enjoy it enough to listen to all 14 hours of it.

Speaking of the audio portion - the reader was awesome. There are all sorts of accents in this book and I feel like he nailed them all. Most of the characters are male, so I know he probably had a hard time coming up with all of the different voices. Some were a little more obvious, but I think he did a really good job.

I will be definitely checking out the second book when it comes out this summer. I feel like this could turn into one of those great series for boys that we librarians are always looking for. Thanks for that! I'll definitely be recommending this one on.
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Other Blog Reviews:

Justin's Book Blog
Annette's Book Spot
Recovering Potter Addict
One Librarian's Book Reviews
YA Novelties
Emily's Reading Room
Girl in the Woods Reviews
Young Adult Book Haven
Bewitched Bookworms
The Book Zone (For Boys)

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Title: Shatter Me
Author: Tahereh Mafi
ISBN: 9780062085481
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Series: Shatter Me #1
Released: November 15, 2011
Duration: 9 hours, 12 minutes
Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:
"Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. 
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
 
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior."

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First Lines:

"I've been locked up for 264 days. 
I have nothing but a small notebook and a broken pen and the numbers in my head to keep me company."
Page 1
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Review:

This was one of those books I listened to pretty much only because it was available at my library. I've sort of figured out that might be the only way I get to some of these titles these days. But I am so glad I did! There was much more to it than I was bargaining for!

So, Juliette is unable to be touched. The last time someone did, she accidentally killed them. The government put her away until she was granted her freedom - by Warner. Someone who wanted to exploit her abilities. She also finds that she has someone on her side - someone who would do anything for her. But to what end? How will they survive in a world where things are falling apart?

Can I just say how much I loved this book? I feel like I haven't read as many dystopians that take place as the government is actively falling. Typically, it is after the fall and the people dealing with it. This book is smack in the middle of it. And I think that makes it very unique. You start very simple - a girl in a locked cell. Then she gets a roommate. Then she's let out... It just keeps growing and growing. I loved that feeling of learning just a little more each chapter. You could actively feel the story building. It felt like really good writing and storytelling. I was impressed.

The idea that there is a girl who can't touch people is very X-Men. Truly, it gets even more X-Men-y toward the end. But I feel like the way the story is told kept me from thinking about that until the very last second. I can only imagine that the next book is going to be even more so. I've heard good things, though... so I am eager to get that one.

I did listen to this book. And let me tell you... there are some steamy bits. Like, fan your face as you're driving... steamy. I mean, you can imagine... Girl who can't touch people. But there's one boy who miraculously can. What to you expect to happen? So everything is just overly sensual, I think. I'm not sure if it comes across that way in the normal reading. But listening to it? Whew!

I give this one a solid two thumbs up. I'm a little late to this party - as the book came out over a year ago. But I'm so glad I've finally joined in! I have already talked to a couple of people about the second book - so I can only imagine how I am going to feel after reading that one. I'll keep ya posted. :)
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Other Blog Reviews:

Book Addict
Novels on the Run
Awesomesauce Book Club
The Z-Axis
Afternoon Book Party
Alice in Readerland
Sarah's Reviews
Alexa Loves Books
Mariela O. Blogs
A Year of Books

Unremembered by Jessica Brody

Title: Unremembered
Author: Jessica Brody
ISBN: 9780374379919
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
Released: March 5, 2013
Series: Unremembered Trilogy #1 
Page #: 302
Source: ARC from the publisher

Summary:
"With no memories and no identity, the sixteen-year-old girl who was floating among the wreckage of a devastating plane crash knows only one thing for certain: nothing is what it seems. Crippled by a world she doesn't know, plagued by abilities she doesn't understand, and haunted by a looming threat she can't remember, Seraphina struggles to piece together her forgotten past and discover who she really is. But with every clue comes more questions. And she's running out of time to answer them. Her only hope is a strangely alluring boy who claims to know her from before the crash. Who claims they were in love. But can she really trust him? And will he be able to protect her from the people who have been making her forget?"
___________________________________________________
First Lines: (Quote from the ARC, subject to change!)

"The water is cold and ruthless, lapping against my cheek. Slapping me awake. Filling my mouth with the taste of salty solitude."
Page 3
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Review:

This book is absolute crazytown. I have read other stuff by Jessica Brody and thought they were hilarious. This one is a huge diversion for her. But a very interesting diversion that I think I really liked. I think.

So, a girl is found in the middle of the wreckage of a huge flight that went down. She is the only survivor. But she has no memories at all - nothing to give anyone a sense of what happened. Not only does she have no memories, it's like her entire mind is wiped out. She can speak, but has no idea what anything is. Then a strange boy starts showing up everywhere - and tells her to be careful. But once the secrets start revealing themselves, she realizes he was right.

Honestly, I was a little worried about that whole "doesn't remember anything at all" thing. If she doesn't remember a car, then she can't remember a road. If she can't remember a cell phone or the internet, then she can't remember electricity. I don't know. I think it worked out okay, but there were moments when I thought that might have been forgotten. Of course, then the entire story would be about her rediscovering every little thing. And that wouldn't do. So I was holding my breath for a little of that, but it seemed to work.

I am trying not to give away any secrets here. You can't help but imagine why she can't remember anything... and why she is being warned to stay safe. I really thought she was going to be some sort of government spy that had the secrets to the earth's destruction or something. Let's just say I was wrong. I won't divulge any further, but it totally wasn't what I was expecting. I was a little shocked. Good shocked, because it was so imaginative. But shocked, nonetheless.

I'll agree with some of the reviewers on this one that you never really develop a relationship with Zen. You only see him in the context of the girl - how he has been in her life, how he has gotten to know her, what has happened between them. You do find out why he is even around, but there isn't much information on his life in general. I'm assuming we will get more of that in the next book.

Speaking of the next book, I truly cannot wait to see what it has in store. The setting could be... anything. You'll learn why. But I think it would be a crazy twist to take this story to a whole new backdrop. Again trying not to give away anything, but I will definitely be picking up the next book to see where it takes us!
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Other Blog Reviews:

The Hollow Cupboards
Good Choice Reading
The Page Turner
Somewhere Between the Pages
Carina's Books
WeaklingNo14's Wondrous Reviews
Me, My Shelf and I
Stacked

What's Left of Me by Kat Zhang

Title: What's Left of Me

Author: Kat Zhang

ISBN: 9780062223838

Publisher: HarperCollins

Released: September 18, 2012

Series: Hybrid Chronicles #1

Duration: 9 hours, 37 minutes

Source: Audiobook from my public library

Summary:

I should not exist. But I do.

Eva and Addie started out the same way as everyone else—two souls woven together in one body, taking turns controlling their movements as they learned how to walk, how to sing, how to dance. But as they grew, so did the worried whispers. Why aren't they settling? Why isn't one of them fading? The doctors ran tests, the neighbors shied away, and their parents begged for more time. Finally Addie was pronounced healthy and Eva was declared gone. Except, she wasn't. . . .

For the past three years, Eva has clung to the remnants of her life. Only Addie knows she's still there, trapped inside their body. Then one day, they discover there may be a way for Eva to move again. The risks are unimaginable—hybrids are considered a threat to society, so if they are caught, Addie and Eva will be locked away with the others. And yet . . . for a chance to smile, to twirl, to speak, Eva will do anything.

________________________________________________

First Lines:

"Addie and I were born into the same body, our souls' ghostly fingers entwined before we gasped our very first breath. Our earliest years together were also our happiest."

Page 5 

________________________________________________

Review:

Can you imagine what it would be like to have another soul in your body? I really can't. What an amazing concept! Not to mention that the dominant soul has to take over before you're a teen. Crazytown.

Addie and Eva share a body. This is totally normal - except for the fact that they are over the age of ten. Now they would be considered Hybrid. If anyone knew that Eva was still there. The dominant soul was supposed to take over, but Eva hung on. Now they are terrified that someone will discover their secret. It doesn't help that a strange girl at school has started talking to them. She seems to know more than she lets on.

I have a hard time imagining having another soul in my body. A constant presence who can feel what you feel... It's just such a strange idea. Though the book does say that they can cut themselves off from each other - having a wall between them. But it's still. Creepy idea. It sort of plays on the whole having an invisible friend as a young child. That friend is just inside your head. With you.

There's also a bit of government control over human's bodies. This country doesn't allow Hybrids to exist, but other countries are run by them. Hybrids are blamed for all terrorism, all evil, and are the boogieman for children. Flood at the art gallery? Hybrids. Riot in the streets? Hybrids. It's sort of an interesting look at government and what sort of influence they have. Plus, they have the ability to split families apart when the idea of hybrids is introduced. It's a little scary!

I'm trying to do this review without giving too much away. There were some things that I could see coming a mile away, but others I was shocked to see how they turned out. So I don't wanna ruin it for you. I really enjoyed it. I'm guessing that there will be a second book because things are left a little incomplete. Not to mention that it's part of a chronicle... obviously. I look forward to seeing where this story goes.

The reader on this book was really good. I liked how the inflection changed just slightly between Addie and Eva. It was enough to know they were different, and didn't keep you guessing on who was supposed to be speaking. I think this book has the potential to get confusing in that way, but the author and the reader did a great job keeping those things clear for you.

I may be a little partial because the author is a local for me. That's really the reason I gave this book a shot (well, that and it's in my wheelhouse). She is definitely talented and I am excited to read/listen to more from her. Fans of dystopian books will enjoy this one - even though that's not really where this one fits in. It's science fiction, but it has the feel of a dystopian. Definitely worth giving a shot.

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Other Blog Review:

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The Book Smugglers

Ticket to Anywhere

The Book Lantern

Books Worth Remembering

Booking in Heels

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