Title: Plus One
Author: Elizabeth Fama (Twitter)
Publisher: FSG BYR
Publish Date: April 8, 2014
Genre: YA, Dystopians
Pages: 373
Source: Publisher

Divided by day and night and on the run from authorities, star-crossed young lovers unearth a sinister conspiracy in this compelling romantic thriller.

Seventeen-year-old Soleil Le Coeur is a Smudge—a night dweller prohibited by law from going out during the day. When she fakes an injury in order to get access to and kidnap her newborn niece—a day dweller, or Ray—she sets in motion a fast-paced adventure that will bring her into conflict with the powerful lawmakers who order her world, and draw her together with the boy she was destined to fall in love with, but who is also a Ray.

Set in a vivid alternate reality and peopled with complex, deeply human characters on both sides of the day-night divide, Plus One is a brilliantly imagined drama of individual liberty and civil rights, and a fast-paced romantic adventure story.

Dystopian novels are often a dime a dozen these days, but I must admit that the concept of Plus One had me going from the very start. Author, Elizabeth Fama, is known for her way with words, spinning stories into this hypnotic, melodic sort of storytelling that leaves you breathless, so I had no reservations at all when I picked up the novel. Offering us an interesting alternate reality, it's the type of novel that asks readers to put their preconceived notions aside and simply dive headfirst into a world that's unfamiliar in it's familiarity. It's a different sort of dystopian novel - one that I believe will either sink or swim for readers.

Plus One  presented a unique challenge for me, perhaps because I've read so many dystopian novels in the past couple of years. In 1918, a flu pandemic threatened to destroy the world's population, so the then President divided the populace into two groups - those who would work the medical fields during the day and the laborers who would work at night. I struggled a bit with this premise, understanding exactly how two perfectly symmetrical shifts would help heal the world from a ravaging disease. Furthermore, what started as an equal society working together (though separated) to keep their people alive, melted into a complete persecution and separation in less than 100 years. I found it, while fascinating, a bit implausible.

I started to reconcile with the idea of the day vs. night premise about halfway through Plus One, and I found myself growing attached to Soleil's character. She was rash, and impulsive and fairly unpredictable, but in a novel that felt quite intangible at times, I felt that she was a ray of light. At times, she felt a bit juvenile, and her actions seemed a bit haphazard, but her persona and the relationship between Soleil and D'arcy rang true and honest. I truly believe the relationships were the highlight of the story for me because, whereas much of the plot felt a bit rushed and haphazard, I felt like I always had a grasp on the characters and their motives, at the very least. 

I think that in the end, my real qualm with Plus One was simply that it felt a little too rushed. With a novel like this, we're being offered a new world in which we're expected to understand and empathize with the changes to society and its inhabitants. However, there was simply so much going on that it felt as though it moved with a little too much speed, when it could easily have worked just a little slower and more deliberate in its actions. The foundation for the world was there, but unfortunately, the meat simply didn't follow through, and while I loved the characters and longed for more of them, I couldn't help but feel a little slighted at the end.

Overall, Plus One  is a complex dystopian that I have extremely mixed feelings on. Ms. Fama remains an incredible writer - one whom I will seek out time and again. Unfortunately, it was also a little unbalanced, and that's where the story lost me a bit. I give it a 3 out of 5, and I recommend it to all fans of YA and NA, especially those who enjoy dystopian novels that focus heavily on characters over plot.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: While We Run
Author: Karen Healey (Twitter)
Publisher: Little, Brown BYR
Publish Date: May 27, 2014
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi, Dystopia
Pages: 336
Source: Publisher

Abdi Taalib thought he was moving to Australia for a music scholarship. But after meeting the beautiful and brazen Tegan Oglietti, his world was turned upside down. Tegan's no ordinary girl - she died in 2027, only to be frozen and brought back to life in Abdi's time, 100 years later.

Now, all they want is for things to return to normal (or as normal as they can be), but the government has other ideas. Especially since the two just spilled the secrets behind Australia's cryonics project to the world. On the run, Abdi and Tegan have no idea who they can trust, and when they uncover startling new details about Project Ark, they realise thousands of lives may be in their hands.

When I read book one in this series, When We Wake, I remember being distinctly impressed by the crossover nature of the novel, perfectly merging science fiction and dystopia into a melting pot of drama. So, naturally, as a series this excited me even more. Author, Karen Healey, has crafted a story in which our protagonists are out of touch with the reality in which they're now forced to live, giving readers a distinct "out of body" sort of impression with her novels. And, while book one offered us the world from Tegan's point of view, While We Run changes things up a little, and we now get to see the world through Abdi's eyes. 

I've always been a fan of the male perspective for young adult novels, in large part because I find it too rare. The voice in While We Run is certainly no exception. Abdi was a hauntingly unique character, and he's one that made it almost a little difficult to trust his voice, offering us a bit of a catch-twenty-two as we're exploring the world and the fallout of Project Ark. In the world in which Tegan and Abdi live, it's difficult, if not impossible, to trust anyone - especially each other. There is a distinct, acrid note of distrust in Abdi's viewpoint, and reading through his eyes, it was amazing to see the ability he had to truly manipulate a situation in his favor when necessary. He could break things, people and events into their tiniest counterparts, analyze them, and rearrange them to benefit him whenever needed, which made him a fascinating but dangerous character to follow.

What I loved most about While We Run though, was that it's more of a follow-up novel to its predecessor than most sequels I've ever read before. Rather than simply throwing us into the melee of a new problem or dilemma, this sequel explores much of the aftermath of the events of the former novel, as well as its significant impact on our characters today. I will say that it frustrated me, at times, to lack the action with whim I'm so familiar in sequels, simply because the stakes are already raised. However, it's a very internalized sort of novel in which you can't help but read, absorb and understand that while, yes, the fallout is happening all around, it's most definitely strongest for Abdi and Tegan, and that's where the power lies. 

While We Run is a bit of an outlier in terms of sequels, simply because it gives us a more open-ended finish than many of us might be used to. While we get a sense of resolution and conclusion, there's also a lot left unfinished, which gives us hope, nerves and undeniable curiosity for what happened next. It's a powerful and well-done tool of Ms. Healey's, and it might be the only time I'll ever enjoy an ending like that. I give this novel a strong 4 out of 5, and I definitely recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy science-fiction and dystopian novels, as well as a male POV.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

It is my absolute pleasure today to introduce my lovely readers to a series that snuck up on me in the best possible way. The Army of the Lost is the thrilling third installment of the Deadlands dystopia series in which mother-daughter writing duo give readers a story unlike no other. Under the pseudonym, Lily Herne, Savannah and Sarah Lotz have crafted a story that embraces both the political climate of South Africa and a backdrop of a zombie apocalypse...and yes, it is that amazing!

The Army of the Lost Synopsis

One of us is dead, one of us is broken, one of us will betray the others and one of us will have to sell her soul to survive...

Eleven years after South Africa was ravaged by the walking dead, most of Johannesburg's survivors are forced to scratch out a living in the filth of Sandtown, an enclave in the old Sandton City mall, ruled over by a minority of rich, self-serving bureaucrats. Tommy, a bullied fourteen-year-old Sandtownite, dreams of joining the Army of the Left, a radical organisation intent on setting the city free of the dead that lurch around its walls. But fate has other plans for him.

Betrayed by one of their closest allies and sold to the highest bidder, Lele, Ash, Ember and Ginger - the remaining Mall Rats - find themselves sucked into the dark heart of Jozi's twisted political system. While Ash is forced to face his traumatic past and Ginger struggles to regain his sanity, Lele goes head to head against Jozi's most powerful manipulator - a man who has sinister plans for her. Meanwhile, left for dead on the outskirts of Jozi, Saint begins her own journey. A journey that she hopes will provide the answers to all of the Mall Rats' unanswered questions.

1. What made you choose a South African setting for your dystopian novel? Did past political unrest play some sort if part?

We live in Cape Town, so familiarity played into that choice quite a lot. At the time we wrote the first in the series, no one had written a walking dead novel set in SA, and someone had to address this appalling state of affairs (!) There is a political element to the novels – it’s almost impossible to write anything set in SA and not include an element of social critique. It’s in our DNA and the fallout from apartheid is still evident all around us. For example, there’s a huge rich-poor divide, which we’ve tried to comment on in the novels.

2. If you could use just five words to describe your protagonist, what would they be, and why?

In the first novel, our narrator Lele is sulky, gutsy, honest, jealous and impetuous. She also has the tendency to be quite rude (although that would make it six!) But as the series progresses, the people and traumatic events she encounters force her to deal with issues and situations with more maturity (she will always sulk though – we reckon that’s her signature emotion!)

3. What do you think sets your books apart from other dystopian novels, and what do you hope readers will take away from reading them?

Lauren’s Beukes’s fabulous Zoo City and Charlie Human’s insanely brilliant Apocalypse Now Now aside, there’s not a great deal of dystopian YA set in South Africa, so the setting probably sets the novels apart. In a departure from the first two novels in the series, The Army of the Lost is set in Johannesburg, and we had a great time coming up with different settlements and considering how the survivors in this city might have corralled themselves out of reach of the walking dead. For example, there’s an almost utopian society who have holed up in the self-sustaining Johannesburg Zoo, and as mall culture is quite prevalent in Jozi, the majority of the survivors are crammed into the Sandton City mall complex, ruled over by a handful of greedy bureaucrats (which isn’t dissimilar to what’s actually happening!) Primarily, we hope readers have a blast reading them!

4. What do you do to make sure your series continues strong from one novel to the next?

As well as (hopefully) including some plot twists that readers won’t see coming, we’ve tried to focus on character development and show how our protagonist have changed after experiencing the various horrible events we’ve forced them to endure. They aren’t the same people as they were at the beginning of the series (and they might not all be alive at the end of it…)

5. If you weren't writing, what would you be doing?

Savannah: I’d be a professional gamer, but as this really isn’t an option, I’d love to be an extra in The Walking Dead.

Sarah: Gosh. Tricky question. I love cars and driving, so I wouldn’t mind being a stunt/precision driver (!)

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Doesn't it sound absolutely amazing?! Be sure to check out the other books in the series (Deadlands and Death of a Saint), as well. But for now - here's your chance to win a copy of The Army of the Lost all for yourself! This giveaway is open internationally and will end promptly at midnight MST on 4/25/14. Simply fill out the Rafflecopter for your chance to win! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Title: Hungry
Author: H.A. Swain
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publish Date: June 3, 2014
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 384
Source: Publisher

In the future, food is no longer necessary—until Thalia begins to feel something unfamiliar and uncomfortable. She’s hungry.

In Thalia’s world, there is no need for food—everyone takes medication (or “inocs”) to ward off hunger. It should mean there is no more famine, no more obesity, no more food-related illnesses, and no more war. At least that's what her parents, who work for the company that developed the inocs, say. But when Thalia meets a boy who is part of an underground movement to bring food back, she realizes that most people live a life much different from hers. Worse, Thalia is starting to feel hunger, and so is he—the inocs aren’t working. Together they set out to find the only thing that will quell their hunger: real food.

In a genre that seems to have become a dime a dozen, it's simple to acknowledge the fact that Hungry stands out from the crowd. It's an intriguing concept to explore in a dystopian novel - a world without food and a government that holds a significant monopoly over all engineered sustenance that the population requires to survive. It's the type of book that will, without a doubt, hold a very captive audience, all the while creating a debate over whether or not a future this broken and irreparably damaged is actually something that could come about. 

I'll admit right off, however, that I'm on the fence about Hungry. I can fully appreciate the risks the author took to create a new and intriguing story, but I also had some inherent plausibility issues with the novel, as well. First and foremost, there is a physiological difference between hunger and nourishment, which I believe is rather forgotten in this novel. Hunger is a feeling, while malnourishment is what would actually come about if society was truly using their medication, or "inocs" to ward of hunger. Hunger is merely a symptom of the real source of the problem, so if the society was simply warding off hunger, I'm not sure it is ever addressded how the society actually receives adequate nourishment so they don't starve to death or eat each other. 

Hungry also features a rather prominent case of insta-love, which I'm fairly used to at this point, but nevertheless found disappointing. Our main character, Thalia Apple has this grumbling in her stomach, and she finds Basil, who is exhibiting all the same symptoms. Basil has created a method of smelling what food used to taste like, and the two bond over this unique hunger pang that nobody else seems to have. It was an instantaneous sort of connection though, and set in a backdrop of a world that's almost entirely virtual, having two flesh and blood characters embrace a virtual reality to find the root cause of their stomach pain just felt forced. I think, had we been given a richer back story of both of our main characters, I might have rooted for them more - or at least been more interested in their story. Instead, I felt as though their personas felt flat, and their love was less than soaring.

I did enjoy how very no-holds-barred Hungry was in terms of corporate greed. Instead of giving us an idea of who might be the bad guy, author, H.A. Swain shows us right out that One World has dominated the entire government and all the citizens of the world, forcing them into submission with their various drugs to ward off hunger, stave off starvation and hold them in their sway. It was an illustration of greed in its finest, and I was definitely rooting for their ultimate demise in the end. That said, it must be called out that I felt there were a few plot holes in terms of how One World actually managed to subdue generations before Thalia and Basil (namely her grandparents), forcing them into this virtual world in which they live. It felt a bit heavy-handed and forced, and I wish it was something that had been further explored.

In the end, I finished Hungry in a couple of days, but I closed the book feeling rather unsatisfied. Though an interesting premise, I think the execution was lacking in several key areas, and I think that it's a premise that needs to be researched - and conveyed - in a much more believable manner for me to truly become invested in this broken world. I give it a 2.5 out of 5, and I'd recommend it for those who enjoy YA, especially those looking for a different sort of dystopian novel.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Fire & Flood
Author: Victoria Scott (Twitter)
Publisher: Scholastic
Publish Date: February 25, 2014
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 320
Source: Publisher

Tella Holloway is losing it. Her brother is sick, and when a dozen doctors can't determine what's wrong, her parents decide to move to Montana for the fresh air. She's lost her friends, her parents are driving her crazy, her brother is dying—and she's helpless to change anything.

Until she receives mysterious instructions on how to become a Contender in the Brimstone Bleed. It's an epic race across jungle, desert, ocean, and mountain that could win her the prize she desperately desires: the Cure for her brother's illness. But all the Contenders are after the Cure for people they love, and there's no guarantee that Tella (or any of them) will survive the race.

The jungle is terrifying, the clock is ticking, and Tella knows she can't trust the allies she makes. And one big question emerges: Why have so many fallen sick in the first place?

A race for survival, a race for family and a race for a cure; these are all winning elements for the perfect setup to a fantastic dystopian novel - even in an extremely tired and overplayed genre. The trickiest thing for such a novel, however, is standing out within this genre, and it must be said that, while some elements of the story seemed vaguely reminiscent of other such novels, Fire & Flood does enough to stand alone and stand alone well. Author, Victoria Scott, promises readers a thrill ride from start to finish, giving us enough action and adventure to satiate our appetites, as well as a main character in whom we're readily eager to place our trust.

Tella was quite an energizing protagonist. I worried that she'd feel a bit too cloying with her mission to save her brother at the forefront of the novel, but I was pleased to discover that she actually felt like a  tangible and accessible teenage girl. Though her quest to save her brother does define her, it also serves to transform her through Fire & Flood and, in doing so, we see a delicate air of vulnerability to her character that makes her both endearing and incredibly fun to travel with on this journey. I found that Cody, on the other hand, pretty much served only to fuel the nature of the plot along, which was slightly disappointing, but not altogether a game-changer for me.

The setup for the Brimstone Bleed within Fire & Flood definitely made me wary at first. I was getting flashbacks of other well-known dystopian novels, and I really didn't want to see it fall into the trap of becoming a replica of another novel. Thankfully, the book offers us an adventure and a race that is different enough to capture our interest and keep us invested in the story. The race transports us to a new scene, which presents challenges both to ourselves and to our characters, and we get to see firsthand just how brutal the Brimstone Bleed can be. I must say that I enjoyed the element of our characters receiving a Pandora, or an egg, which will transform into an animal through their journey to guide them along. This element was surprising, fun and definitely unique to me.

I was, however, disappointed in the love interest of the story, Guy. I felt as though we got to know a plethora of characters, but his character was never completely defined. Rather, I felt as though we got to know snippets of his persona, but we never truly understand or empathize for his motives for being in the race. Furthermore, the plight of the budding relationship between Tella and Guy felt a bit too familiar to another epic romance in another incredibly popular dystopian series. Though they felt for each other, they were scared to succumb to their feelings because of the inevitability of one winner. 

Overall, however, I was really quite impressed with Fire & Flood. The story offers us enough originality to get us invested in yet another dystopian series and, in doing so, we've found a whole new world in which to become invested. I give this book a 4 out of 5, and I recommend it to all fans of dystopian novels, especially those who enjoy epic adventures.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: After the End
Author: Amy Plum (Twitter)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: May 6, 2014
Genre: YA, Dystopian, Sci-Fi
Pages: 352

World War III has left the world ravaged by nuclear radiation. A lucky few escaped to the Alaskan wilderness. They've survived for the last thirty years by living off the land, being one with nature, and hiding from whoever else might still be out there. At least, this is what Juneau has been told her entire life.

When Juneau returns from a hunting trip to discover that everyone in her clan has vanished, she sets off to find them. Leaving the boundaries of their land for the very first time, she learns something horrifying: There never was a war. Cities were never destroyed. The world is intact. Everything was a lie.

Now Juneau is adrift in a modern-day world she never knew existed. But while she's trying to find a way to rescue her friends and family, someone else is looking for her. Someone who knows the extraordinary truth about the secrets of her past.

Just when I think I'm totally sick of the dystopian genre, another novel pops up and catches my eye. I'd be lying if I said the genre has become a bit tired and repetitive lately, but I like the sound of the twist of this one. It seems like, if it's done well, it might be just different enough to pique and capture my interest throughout the story. So, I can't help but say that I'm lusting over this one shamelessly this week. What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly feature hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine.

Title: Countdown
Author: Michelle Rowen (Twitter)
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Publish Date: October 1, 2013
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 336
Source: Publisher

3 seconds left to live. Once the countdown starts, it cannot be stopped. 2 pawns thrown into a brutal underground reality game.

Kira Jordan survived her family's murder and months on plague-devastated city streets with hard-won savvy and a low-level psi ability. She figures she can handle anything. Until she wakes up in a barren room, chained next to the notorious Rogan Ellis.

Their every move is controlled and televised for a vicious exclusive audience. And as Kira's psi skill unexpectedly grows and Rogan's secrets prove evermore deadly, Kira's only chance of survival is to risk trusting him as much as her instincts. Even if that means running head-on into the one trap she can't escape.

GAME OVER

There is something to be said for dystopian fiction in its most simplistic form. The reason the genre first appealed to me was simply because of its stark, brutal reality, which was oddly disconcerting to readers, if only because the ideas behind them were essentially plausible in a futuristic society, for all we know. Throughout the evolution of the dystopian genre though, we've come to notice cross-genre fiction, and Countdown embodies that it wholeheartedly. This vivid dystopian novel combines a dark dystopian premise with a distinctive sci-fi undertones, which help to set it apart from other such novels. Author, Michelle Rowen, gives readers a sinister game within the pages that lures us in, traps us inside and threatens to never let us go.

Countdown gives us a plot that, while not entirely original, is gripping nonetheless. The nature of the countdown clock gives us a predetermined time limit within which the characters we become invested in have to find a way to outwit the game and survive - or die trying. There is something dark and sadistic about the nature of the countdown that makes us need to keep reading, if only to find out whether these characters have a fighting chance.

The novel, however, does not come without its baggage. Much of Countdown is extremely reminiscent of The Hunger Games, which I can usually forgive because many a novel borrows upon its predecessors. In terms of this book, however, I could draw distinct parallels between events in The Hunger Games and events in Countdown. The fact that Kira was paired with Rogan then later told she would have to kill him in order to win the game drew directly from the troubles of Katniss and Peta. The fact that Countdown is a game with subscribers seemed eerily similar to the Arena and the people of the Capitol. There were more and, unfortunately, that detracted from my enjoyment of this novel. 

The science fiction element of Countdown was surprisingly refreshing, and I found myself craving more backstory, if only to fit these puzzle pieces together and better understand the story. We weren't offered much in terms of world-building though, so our view is rather sheltered, and we're forced to see in one direction only. Kira was a strong character, for the most part, though I feel as though she flip-flopped a lot, and a semblance of consistency for her persona would lend well to the overall plot. I'm at an impasse with Brogan because, unfortunately, I felt as though he fell into that time-honoured cliche of "hot, misunderstood boy must defy his carefully-crafted murderous character in order to survive and get the girl." It was disappointing because, had he deviated from the norm in that respect, I could have easily become more invested in his and Kira's plight.

Overall, Countdown was a quick and engaging read, but it was not without its flaws. I love the premise of the novel, and I hope to see more from the author that, perhaps, steps a bit more outside this comfort zone. I give it a 2.5 out of 5, and I recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy dystopian novels and science fiction.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: The 100
Author: Kass Morgan (Twitter)
Publisher: Little, Brown BYR
Publish Date: September 3, 2013
Genre: YA, Dystopian, Sci-Fi
Pages: 277
Source: Publisher

In the future, humans live in city-like spaceships orbiting far above Earth's toxic atmosphere. No one knows when, or even if, the long-abandoned planet will be habitable again. But faced with dwindling resources and a growing populace, government leaders know they must reclaim their homeland... before it's too late.

Now, one hundred juvenile delinquents are being sent on a high-stakes mission to recolonize Earth. After a brutal crash landing, the teens arrive on a savagely beautiful planet they've only seen from space. Confronting the dangers of this rugged new world, they struggle to form a tentative community. But they're haunted by their past and uncertain about the future. To survive, they must learn to trust - and even love - again.

Clarke, Wells, Bellamy and Glass live in a world in which the Earth has been abandoned. To survive, humans live in vast cities in space, but it was never meant to be a permanent solution. The population is growing, and the resources are growing slim, leading the government to find a way to repopulate the Earth. 100 convicted teen felons are to be sent to Earth including Clarke, Wells and Bellamy - but Glass fights tooth and nail to stay on the ship. Which is more dangerous though? The wild, untamed Earth that's long-since been abandoned, or life aboard the ships?

For a long while now, I've been avoiding dystopian novels. It's not that I don't still love the idea of a broken world desperate to rebuild. It's simply that genres grow tired, and it takes a really strong book to break that mold. The 100 by author, Kass Morgan, seems to fit that bill in a nutshell. Combining genres, and giving us a shattered, dysfunctional future world in which we cannot even live on our own planet, The 100 explores what lengths we might go to to reclaim what was once ours...and how we might survive doing so. Dramatic, futuristic and deceptive, this is one world that you'll want to explore.

Before I begin my review, I must start out saying that I truly believe this is going to make one heck of a CW television series. It embodies teen drama, and it embraces the dystopian genre that is now thriving on both the big and small screens. The 100, however, perhaps translates better cinematically than on paper. That's not to say that I didn't enjoy this book (because I really did)...but we get a little bit different than what we've bargained for when we begin. The novel follows four points of view - Clarke, Wells, Bellamy and Glass - and the aftermath of both boarding the ship to Earth and staying behind in space. Now, it's difficult to manage two proper points of view in a great novel, so to balance four distinct characters and voices in a fairly slim novel for the genre would be quite the feat. While I felt like I got to know the gist of each of their characters, I also felt as though I never really got the essence of them either. For example, I understand Clarke's demeanor due to her wrongful conviction, but I never really got to see past her hurt, betrayed exterior. Wells was abrasive and manipulative, and I actually felt dirty reading from his perspective. Bellamy was the rare exception, as I actually really liked him, but I feel as though his character is like an onion, and we only managed to peel back maybe one or two layers. And, to be entirely honest, I didn't feel as though Glass stood out all that much. However, we're also offered characters who really stand out, but we don't get nearly enough of them. I think that my biggest issue with The 100 was that I was expecting a battle for survival once the teens got to Earth because they all had their own agendas and something to lose, plus they'd never not  lived on the spaceship. What we got though would imply otherwise. Seemingly flawlessly, the teens can hunt and survive with limited distress. There were definitive highlights to the story though, too. Ms. Morgan has given us a great setup to a broken world. Society is so irreparably damaged that execution is the solution to breaking the one-child limit. Classes are distinct and set apart from one another. It's a world that I'd really, really like to explore more, though perhaps with less points of view.

All in all, The 100 really sets the state for a fantastic TV series because, frankly, it reads like one. With a cliffhanger that, despite my reservations, had me salivating for more, I can't help but get invested in this series. I give it a 3.5 out of 5, and I recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy dystopian and science fiction.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Not a Drop to Drink
Author: Mindy McGinnis (Twitter)
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Publish Date: September 24, 2013
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 320
Source: Publisher

Lynn knows every threat to her pond: drought, a snowless winter, coyotes, and, most importantly, people looking for a drink. She makes sure anyone who comes near the pond leaves thirsty, or doesn't leave at all.

Confident in her own abilities, Lynn has no use for the world beyond the nearby fields and forest. Having a life means dedicating it to survival, and the constant work of gathering wood and water. Having a pond requires the fortitude to protect it, something Mother taught her well during their quiet hours on the rooftop, rifles in hand.

But wisps of smoke on the horizon mean one thing: strangers. The mysterious footprints by the pond, nighttime threats, and gunshots make it all too clear Lynn has exactly what they want, and they won’t stop until they get it...

Lynn's life is defined by water...or the lack thereof. Born after the Shortage, she lives in a world where water is so scarce that people live and die in a quest to find it. Raised solely by her mother in this world ravaged by carnage, she knows that, above all else, she has to protect the pond. This, their sole source of water, is the key to their mutual survival, and she must always put the pond first. Without it, and without water, they will die slow, painful deaths. But the water isn't the only thing worth killing for, and Lynn's world is about to turn on its head when she learns that everything she knows might not be enough. 

Although I've been fairly put-off by the dystopian genre in general, I've been intrigued by the premise of Not a Drop to Drink from day one. Offering readers a story that that is dark, terrifying and, frankly, entirely plausible, we're invited into a world so broken that young children learn to defend themselves and their water sources with guns from childhood. Author, Mindy McGinnis, has crafted a new spin on the dystopian genre, inviting readers a story that's dynamic, provocative and incredibly memorable. It's the type of story that will linger; haunting and baiting you with every sip of water you drink.

I'll be entirely honest and say that I wasn't sure what to think at the start of Not a Drop to Drink. It's a very internally-driven story,and although it's written in third-person, we're immediately drawn within Lynn's persona and state of mind. Because we begin with just two primary characters, we see the world in distinct and stark shades of black and white from her perspective, which can be a bit limiting. The story, however, progresses, and we get to see Lynn change from a girl with one sole purpose into someone that welcomes change and evolves as the world begins to change around her, as well. In large part, I loved Lynn's character. She had this aura about her and a carefully-constructed facade of protection around her that shielded her from the worst of her pain. Although, at times, I wish she showed more emotion, it was actually an asset to the storyline that she distanced herself from the worst of her emotions because it made the story a lot more plausible. I also loved that we got to watch as she gradually evolved throughout the novel. The changes weren't immediate, and we never lost sight of her as a person, but as the secondary characters such as Stebbs entered the picture, we began to see the walls melt. Lucy was a brilliant addition to the novel. Her innocent persona perfectly offset the frankness of Lynn's, and they counter-balanced each other well. I was worried that when Eli entered that we would suddenly have an insta-love on our hands, but their careful budding friendship and romance really heightened the tension, the drama and the ultimate stakes of the novel. I did have a few small issues with the novel including the revelation of the backstory. We don't understand how the world became the way it did until the final third of the book, which works, but left me a bit confused until I became too absorbed in the story to care. Also, I felt that the final events of the novel were rushed. The revelations of Lynn's father, the constant mentions of a city we never actually see and the untimely events that we hoped to avoid all happen in an instant, and I do think that the novel could have easily worked with a hundred or more pages. And, although I'm not a fan of epilogues for the most part, I have to say that seeing the story come full circle was a truly beautiful touch. 

All in all though, I really enjoyed Not a Drop to Drink. It's not a happily ever after tale, and it's certainly not a feel-good book, but it's profound and powerful. Despite a few flaws, I give it a 4 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to fans of YA who enjoy darker dystopian novels.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Breathe
Author: Sarah Crossan (Twitter)
Publisher: Greenwillow
Publish Date: October 2, 2012
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 373
Source: Publisher

Inhale. Exhale. Breathe. Breathe. Breathe...The world is dead. The survivors live under the protection of Breathe, the corporation that found a way to manufacture oxygen-rich air.

Alina has been stealing for a long time. She's a little jittery, but not terrified. All she knows is that she's never been caught before. If she's careful, it'll be easy. Quinn should be worried about Alina and a bit afraid for himself, too, but even though this is dangerous, it's also the most interesting thing to happen to him in ages. Bea wants to tell him that none of this is fair; they'd planned a trip together, the two of them, and she'd hoped he'd discover her out here, not another girl.

And as they walk into the Outlands with two days' worth of oxygen in their tanks, everything they believe will be shattered. Will they be able to make it back? Will they want to?

The world is used up. Air is gone, and what little there is, the Breathe Corporation provides at great cost. To survive, you are either very privileged, or you work to the bone to provide a better life for your family in the bleak future of the world. Life outside these lifesaving pods isn't really an option, as the trees are gone, and the oceans are dried up, leaving the Earth with oxygen levels of a mere 6%. For Quinn, life is easy, as he's a Premium and one of the few elite. Bea is an Auxiliary and has worked hard with her family her entire life to secure their future. Alina is a rebel, and doesn't play by the rules. And the lives of these three teens are on a dangerous collision course.

Breathe presents a concept of a dystopian future that, while not entirely original or new, definitely takes its own spin on the concept of a world depleted of its natural resources. The world that Sarah Crossan has created is, indeed, extremely bleak, with a faceless corporation holding monopoly over the Earth's citizens' very lives. The smooth, steady pace of the novel lulls us into a comfortable and false sense of calm, enveloping us in a tale that begins to lash out with dark treachery as we progress. With its well-paced plot, understandable theme and a world that's bleak and devoid of hope, Breathe gives us a chance to root for redemption through it all.

I have to say that, at first, the concept of Breathe didn't immediately entice me, simply because I felt the setup was vaguely reminiscent of one my all-time favourite new dystopians, Pure. However, I was excited to start reading and see that while a few elements were similar, Breathe definitely had its own plot and was taking its execution in a different direction. One of the greatest strengths of the book were the three main characters with whom we're offered a chance to empathize. Bea, Alina and Quinn are stark contrasts of one another, each offering a different viewpoint into the world of Breathe. Their alternating points of view gave me a different perspective with each transition, and I felt as though my insight was more well-rounded by doing so. Throughout the novel though, I didn't see much character growth within their individual characters arcs, which also seemed to be lacking somewhat. However, in a largely plot-driven novel, I can accept it and will say that it made sense for Breathe. Another highlight of this book for me, surprisingly enough, was the love triangle, as we actually got to see two girls falling for the same guy, whereas usually it's the other way around. The only true complaint I have with the book is that I am left with a ton of questions regarding just what actually happened to the world. In a sense, it leaves me wanting more and anticipating the next installment, but in another way, I felt a bit slighted.

Overall though, I thought Breathe was a really well-written addition to the genre. With a clean writing style and a fresh voice, it's sure to find a big audience. I give it a strong 3.5 out of 5, and I definitely recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy dystopian fiction.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: What's Left of Me
Author: Kat Zhang
Publisher:  HarperCollins
Publish Date: September 18, 2012
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi
Pages: 343
Source: Publisher

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.

In a world where children are born with two souls, Addie and Eva somehow still stand out. One is dominant, and one is recessive, but for most children, one eventually settles while the other thrives. But in their case, for some reason, Eva hasn't settled. She's still there...living, existing, but not really thriving as Addie, the dominant soul continues to breathe and live for the both of them. Eva's existence has to remain a secret because Hybrids are dangerous, feared and threaten the balance of society. Nevertheless, Eva wants to live, and Addie will do just about anything to help her move and exist on her own.

The young adult market is overrun with dystopian novels these days - books that broach the topic of science fiction a lot - but never actually delve into the depths of it. What's Left of Me, however, is not one of those novels. Pure, raw sci-fi, this novel is a new spin on dystopia with a searing plot full of loss,  companionship and the struggle to survive. Kat Zhang has a melodic writing voice, weaving a soulful story in a heartfelt and believable way for a host of incredibly deep characters. The prose is simple and beautiful, albeit a bit repetitive at times, but altogether meaningful and creates an intense, emotional and incredible journey within the pages of What's Left of Me.

I have to say that the true beauty of What's Left of Me lies within the depth of the characters. I'm usually not too much of a fan of prologues because I feel like there is too much foreshadowing, but I actually liked this one. Eva's voice is so tragic, but rather than being cloying or overwhelming, I was actually heartbroken for her. She desperately wanted to live. She wanted to speak, and to feel, and to be able to simply do the little things that we, ourselves take for granted. But, despite her grave situation, she never wallowed. I pitied her, but not because she was pathetic. I pitied her because she had such an immense strength that emanated from her being, and I wanted to see that thrive. Likewise, Addie was such a beautiful character. Flawed but powerful and strong in her convictions, I felt like I knew her throughout, and as the story progressed, I became more and more invested in their journey together. I have to say, on the downside, I was a bit frustrated with not truly understanding why Hybrids were considered dangerous, and I think that would have heightened the intensity of the drama. Finally the ending was a bit of a letdown for me, considering the whole story had me reeling, and I guess I'd expected a more poignant conclusion to What's Left of Me.

Overall, however, I really enjoyed reading What's Left of Me. I thought it was refreshing, thorough and beautifully-done, and it was definitely a book I'll recommend to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy science fiction and dystopian novels. I give it a very solid 4 out of 5.

I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Article 5
Author: Kristen Simmons (Facebook)
Publisher: Tor Teen
Publish Date: January 31, 2012
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 368
Source: Publisher

New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., have been abandoned. The Bill of Rights has been revoked, and replaced with the Moral Statutes. There are no more police—instead, there are soldiers. There are no more fines for bad behavior—instead, there are arrests, trials, and maybe worse. People who get arrested usually don't come back.

Seventeen-year-old Ember Miller is old enough to remember that things weren’t always this way. Living with her rebellious single mother, it’s hard for her to forget that people weren’t always arrested for reading the wrong books or staying out after dark. It’s hard to forget that life in the United States used to be different.

Ember has perfected the art of keeping a low profile. She knows how to get the things she needs, like food stamps and hand-me-down clothes, and how to pass the random home inspections by the military. Her life is as close to peaceful as circumstances allow. That is, until her mother is arrested for noncompliance with Article 5 of the Moral Statutes. And one of the arresting officers is none other than Chase Jennings…the only boy Ember has ever loved.

Things have changed in the realm of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. There are new laws in place, there's an omnipotent governing body and things are definitely not how they used to be. But Ember remembers what life was like before...before the raids and the trials and the fines. There is always risk though, and even though Ember knows her life depends on anonymity for the most part, she's thrust into a spotlight when her mother is arrested. Her life changes in that moment. Life is no longer simply black and white, but shades of gray because Chase is at the center of it all, and there is always a choice.

Dystopians have become so hit or miss for me lately. They're almost the new paranormal, in a sense, as they continue to spin the same old, same old story. Because of this, it's a breath of fresh air when something challenges the boundaries of the genre, setting a new height and goal for other novels to reach. Article 5 is one of those books. It's that perfect blend of spine-tingling action, breathtaking suspense, vivid imagery and fabulous characterization that lends to a story line that soars far greater than the synopsis or summary can even allude to. Kristen Simmons has crafted an incredible story that is extremely well-written, flows beautiful and paints a painfully bleak and frightening future world.

There's a subtle undercurrent and theme that carries throughout Article 5 that, above all else, I feel the need to point out. We all have choices. Right or wrong, good or bad, obedience or defection...every single person has a choice. That applies to every member of society from the very top and trickles all the way down. Ember was a powerfully evocative character that displays this so incredibly well. She's forced into a terrible situation and she's faced with the easy decision to submit, or she can choose the hard path - to escape. In a nutshell, it's her choice that forces Article 5 into heart-pounding action. Her counterpart and love interest, Chase, is everything I wished for and more. He's lit from within, and his personality resonates. He's forcible, but kind, and there's a hardened exterior around him that acts as an armour, shielding him from the pain of society and every action he has to take. The progression of his dynamic with Ember was tragically beautiful, and yet powerfully hopeful, as well. The true power of the novel rests in the ability to skillfully paint the harsh reality of the world in which the characters live. The world was so very bleak, gritty and and raw, and the words perfectly painted that picture, nearly rubbing salt in the proverbial wounds with each turn of the page. And, ultimately, the characters, the writing and the brilliant story line merged seamlessly to provide an engrossing new dystopian that keeps you guessing and cheering for your favourite characters long past the last page.

I am always so happy when I book knocks me out of a so-so reading funk, and Article 5 most certainly did that for me. It was an incredibly well-executed debut, and I can't sing its praises enough. I give it a 5 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy futuristic dystopian novels.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Cinder
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publish Date: January 2, 2012
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi, Dystopian
Pages: 387
Source: Publisher

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

Cinder lives the life of your obligatory Cinderella, complete with the requisite wicked stepmother and hideous stepsister. But Cinder is different than meets the eye. She's a skilled mechanic with a gift that supports her family's seriously lavish lifestyle. Not only that though, Cinder is a cyborg, making her less than the average human in New Beijing. Life is difficult, of course, but it's about to get more difficult. When an intergalactic war begins to brew beneath the surface, Cinder is about to become an unwitting heroine...but is it a life she is willing to continue, or will it be too much for one cyborg to handle?

There's a whole mess of dystopians and sci-fi novels on the YA market today. That's no secret, kids, but when an author is willing to take a classic, turn it on its tail and make it into something entirely new. Debut author Marissa Meyer has transformed your classic Cinderella tale into something far greater than your average damsel in distress tale. Offering us a heroine that's flawed but witty, sweet but strong and far braver than all those around her, Cinder earns its spot on the YA market today with an honest, fun and intense tale.

I was a little leery of Cinder, to be honest, despite my excitement. It's hard for a book to live up to the hype, but Cinder balances the task with ease. The characterization of our heroine was spot-on, allowing me to access the heart of her being from page one and become invested in her tale. Furthermore, all the secondary characters, including Cinder's stepmother, Prince Kai and her stepsisters came alive through rich and evocative dialogue and powerful actions. The true beauty of Cinder, however, lies within the world Cinder lives, New Beijing. The place was a virtual cesspool, dissolving under an incurable plague and ready to be attacked by the leader of the Lunar world, Queen Levana. Through the spine-tingling action and suspense, the romantic and believable love story and a great, fast-paced plot, Cinder succeeds on all levels.

Cinder is the first in a planned quartet of novels (love that it's not a trilogy!). Fun and thrilling, it's become an instant favourite of mine and definitely warrants a re-read. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of YA fiction, especially those who like fairy tale retellings, sci-fi and dystopians.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Variant
Author: Robison Wells
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: October 4, 2011
Genre: YA, Dystopian, Thriller
Pages: 356
Source: Publisher

Benson Fisher thought that a scholarship to Maxfield Academy would be the ticket out of his dead-end life. He was wrong.

Now he’s trapped in a school that’s surrounded by a razor-wire fence. A school where video cameras monitor his every move. Where there are no adults. Where the kids have split into groups in order to survive. Where breaking the rules equals death.

But when Benson stumbles upon the school’s real secret, he realizes that playing by the rules could spell a fate worse than death, and that escape—his only real hope for survival—may be impossible.

When Benson is accepted into Maxfield Academy, he's elated. This is his chance to get out. This is his opportunity to become something bigger and better than he would otherwise be. At least, that's what the academy looks like from the outside. Once inside the walls of the prep school he was so honoured to attend, Benson realizes that he now lives within a veritable petri dish. There are no adults. The school is locked tight, and the students trust no one. But Benson soon realizes that there are two choices in Maxfield Academy. Follow the rules and suffer the consequences, or break the rules and pay the ultimate price. When the choice is death or eternal suffering, which would you choose?

It's safe to say that Variant takes the dystopian genre, throws in a twisted core and makes for a tumltuous and entirely destructive novel that's a thrill ride from start to finish. Author Robison Wells has created a masterpiece in Variant that blends the best of horror, dystopian and character-driven novels into a rich, frightening and utterly original world. With a powerful cast and an equally potent premise, Variant presents a dark and terrifying world that is easy to become lost in. Trust me when I say that you want to be lost in the world of Variant, but you will be truly glad to escape it in the end. Mind-bending and haunting, it will leave you spellbound.

Before I say anything else, I have to say how refreshing it was to read a book with a male MC that is first-person narrated. In a genre dominated by female protagonists, it was such a breath of fresh air to hear how the world looked from Benson, a teenage boy's, point of view. Plus, his voice was truthful and real, lending to the carefully crafted lunacy of Variant. There's a beauty in the despair of a true dystopian novel, which Variant embodies. You're given the bleakness, you're given true darkness and you're driven towards a lack of hope that lends to desperation. Variant gave us a unique spin, however, presenting a carefully controlled environment in this dystopia, but allowing that environment to twist into utter chaos within its chains. Watching the world of youth turn in on itself was bone-chilling, and the author crafted it carefully in order to keep us riveted. The beauty of Variant is that it makes you question everyone, without fail. The tagline, "trust no one," was entirely accurate, and I could never have guessed the end, which left me reeling. The writing is solid, and the plot is phenomenal, so without giving anything away, allow me to say that Variant breaks the mold and gives us a fresh new take on the genre.

All in all, Variant blew me away. I was expecting a good read, but I got an amazing read, and that is a true pleasure. I give it a 5 out of 5, and I highly recommend this book to all fans of YA fiction, especially those who enjoy dystopian and thrillers.

I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine, and specifically spotlights upcoming novels we can't wait to read. As always, there are some amazing upcoming books, but this week I'm particularly excited for...

Title: The Selection
Author: Kiera Cass
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: April 24, 2012
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 352

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

Ok, first of all, please pardon my obsessive cover lust, but have you seen that blue?!?!?! Honestly, if I weren't such a freaky reader, I would simply buy the book simply by the cover, alone. That said, we all know I'm a sucker for dystopians, and while I'm not so much a sucker for love triangles, there's something about The Selection that intrigues me. I'm always sold on class divisions and super crazy conflicts. So, I'm dying to read this one...yesterday. What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Title: Legend
Author: Marie Lu
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Publish Date: November 29, 2011
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 336
Source: Publisher

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

The differences between June and Day are vast - much like night and day. June is a prodigy, being prepared for a high life in the military. Day lives in the slums as a common criminal, barely surviving day to day. Their lives become entwined in the senseless and heinous murder of Metias, June's brother. Day is accused, and so June becomes the hunter and he, the hunted. Determined to track down the only suspect in her brother's murder, capturing Day becomes her mission, but when June and Day discover the truth, their worlds will unravel around them, and it might be all they can do to stay alive.

Dystopian novels are known for their rich and debilitated worlds. It sounds like a contradiction and, truly, it is. There is the extreme wealth, and there is extreme poverty. But to be able to spin a world of dystopian fiction that masks the extremes and hides the true sinister nature of society is a task these days. Legend does so seamlessly, engrossing the reader in a story that's equal parts action and deceit, keeping one tethered to a story that won't let go. Author Marie Lu has crafted a thrilling, heart-pounding adventure that awes and terrifies at the same time. Legend is a glimpse into a world that could quite possibly be, and giving us an insider perspective, we see through the facade into the grim underbelly of a crumbling society.

Legend utilizes some of the most powerful tools to craft a great novel. First, it must be said that Day is an absolute breath of fresh air. He's painted as a villain in the novel, but there is a lighthearted nature to him that allows us to see he's really a kind soul. Plus, he's every bit the daredevil, which is absolutely captivating. Then there's June, who's presented as this beacon of hope for the society, but she's more of a puppet than anything. Legend let's us see her character build from the ground up as she begins to discover the truth about herself and the world around her. That said, Legend also utilizes a dual narrative, which can be rather tricky. While, for the most part, the transitions were clean and crisp, there were times that their voices ever-so-slightly became similar and nearly indistinguishable. That said, Legend features heroic action and dramatically woven conspiracies that continue to make the story completely captivating. Plus, Legend is a book that burns brighter with each passing page. Starting with the dregs of society and building to show us the darker nature of the master plan surrounding the characters in Legend, the story builds momentum and becomes nearly impossible to put down.

Overall, despite a few minor hiccups, Legend was a fabulous addition to the dystopian genre, and Lord knows I'm picky. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy dystopian.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Title: Shatter Me
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: November 15, 2011
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 342
Source: Publisher

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.

Juliette has a gift she cannot control. Perhaps it's more of a curse. She's been sequestered in a tiny cell with no hope for the outside world again for 264 days. But before she was imprisoned for her formidable power, she watched the world crumble and decay. She watched people dying, the world withering and wasting and worst of all, she felt the true force of worldwide panic. The Reestablishment stepped in then, and they promised a solution. She doesn't know the extent of the solution, but she knows something's off. When Juliette is finally given a cellmate, Adam, he sets a off a chain reaction of events that will propel Juliette towards her destiny and to the epicenter of the Reestablishment. Then perhaps, Juliette will understand the true depth of her power.

In a world of dystopian fiction, it's rare to say that a book sets itself apart because, let's be honest here, there are so many twists and variations on the original that it's hard to find something truly new. Shatter Me is remarkable in the sense that, yes, it borrows some of our most beloved comic book ideas, but it spins them into an entirely new maze with an ending so drastic and intense that its sure to sway many a reader. Tahereh Mafi has crafted a cunningly dark dystopian novel in Shatter Me that gives the reader of heroine to love, a cause to believe in and a world we want nothing more than to put back together. Rich and evocative, Shatter Me is intense and enthralling from start to finish.

Shatter Me, to be honest, defied my expectations. I think that my expectations were so high for it that I almost expected it to fall short, if that makes sense in any way, shape or form. Juliette, as a protagonist, was brilliant. She was a perfect blend of power and strength with hints of vulnerability that allowed the reader access to the very core of her humanity. Then, let's add Adam to the mix. It's hard to describe a male love interest without becoming a true fangirl, but let me tell you that he is not only the embodiment of utter sexiness, but he's pure power, and compassion and brute strength in one being, making him an entirely dynamic and riveting three-dimensional character. I also have to note that the villain in the book was equally fleshed-out and engrossing. Wa they heinous and evil? Of course, but the writing of Shatter Me allowed us to see what made him tick, giving an insider look into a dark and twisted mind. Most of all though, I have to say that the writing of Shatter Me was breathtaking. Truly, the words the author uses are so much more than just words. They're poetry, and they spin a riveting story that's mesmerizing not only in plot but in prose. The only downfall in that is that the writing is so pretty, it's hard to separate the writing from the story, in a sense. The beauty adds depth, but the writing is a treat, in and of itself.

Overall, Shatter Me was a fantastic addition to my growing dystopian collection. While some people don't love the cover and others are scared it won't live up to the hype - trust me. It's awesome. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all those who enjoy YA, especially those who enjoy dystopian novels.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.