"Champion" by Marie Lu

A word to the wise that this book is the last in a trilogy. I do my best not to include spoilers, but I don’t promise that there aren’t any.

Champion (Nov. 5, 2013) by Marie Lu.

The Republic. Patriots. The Colonies. A nation divided with a group clinging to the idea that there can be peace between the two. The Patriots are disbanded (or dead), leaving the young new Elector to worry about other matters, such as a threat of war from the Colonies over a plague outbreak and the continued weeding out (a.k.a. execution) of Senators and dissenters who would attempt to assassinate him. Fortunately for Elector Anden Stavropoulos, he has June Iparis (the prodigy) and Day (the legend) on his side. June is training as one of three Princeps-Elects, signifying that one of them will someday lead the Senate. And Daniel Altan Wing – “Day” – once the Republic’s most notorious criminal, is now a national hero. How the tides have turned.

            They’re turning even more, and not for the better. The Colonies have a powerful new ally in the Confederate Nations of Africa. Even more powerful than Africa? The nation of Antarctica, which has a long-standing rivalry with Africa. Their economy is thriving, and their technological advances are extraordinary and impressive. Life in Ross City, Antarctica, is a game that’s brilliant enough to reduce crime to practically nil. They’ll help the Republic push back the Colonies, but their parameters seem almost impossible.

            One thing Antarctica requires is a cure to the virus. Anden thinks clues to the cure lie in Day’s brother’s body, but Day isn’t about to let the Republic get their hands on Eden again. He’ll do anything in his power to keep Eden safe, and June, too, but he’s in a worsening state that may not allow him to help anyone.

            Overall, “Champion” was a satisfying conclusion to this YA dystopian trilogy. It didn’t end all wrapped up with a nice bow. Instead, it ended with the prospect of a new beginning or a new chapter. I enjoyed the finale book, which read swiftly. Lu is a deft writer, as showcased by how smoothly the book reads. Are there awkward moments? Sure. Always. Some may think them technical glitches, but in this case, I felt they added more details that readers might be interested to know. I also enjoyed Lu’s foray into international worldbuilding with the visit to Antarctica. With its game base, it made me think of “The Sims,” making me an instant fan of Ross City. I would have loved to read more about Lu’s Antarctica. I’m thinking a new trilogy, but this time set in Ross City …

            One Legend. One Prodigy. Two heroes. Will either be Champion?

            Book One: Legend

            Book Two: Prodigy

"Critical Reaction" by Todd M. Johnson

Critical Reaction (Nov. 19, 2013) by Todd M. Johnson.*

Things are not always as they appear. Kieran Mullaney survived a blast at Hanford Nuclear Reservation. In its days of operation, Hanford Nuclear was used for plutonium production. It was shut down by the Department of Energy and is currently under the eye of Covington Nuclear, where workers like Kieran routinely monitor and test for radiation in the air. So why would a place that’s supposed to be shut down rock from explosions? Kieran was on the “dark side” of Lab Building 5 (a.k.a. LB5) when it happened. Before losing consciousness, he saw the hallway’s monitors switch from green to red, indicating radiation in the air. (Covington denies that any radiation was detected.) Now concerned about the amount of radiation he may have been exposed to, he’s tried to get answers only to be ignored.

            Young lawyer Emily Hart answers Kieran’s call as a concerned friend. Kieran contacts her, desperate for representation, after his own lawyer backs out on him. Emily knows she’s in over her head on the case. In the two-to-three years since she passed her bar, she’s worked in a Public Defender’s office, taking small cases. This is her first civil suit in federal court. Her dad has the courtroom experience their team needs, but they’re not close. Will Ryan Hart agree to help?

            Eight months after the Hanford explosion, and Poppy Martin’s coughing fits haven’t stopped. Was he exposed to a large dose of radiation? He’s sent multiple e-mails to Covington’s head of Human Resources, only to be ignored. When he finally gets contact from them, it isn’t what he expected.

            Hanford is hiding something. Something very big and probably very dangerous. These characters all want to find the truth of what’s going on, but their searching for answers doesn’t go unnoticed. There are threats. If they keep searching, will their lives be in danger from more than potential radiation poisoning?

            I don’t read a lot of legal thrillers, and this was the first time I’ve read a Christian legal thriller. But the Christian aspect is so understated that it was hard to notice it save for mention of a person praying once or twice. I was pleasantly surprised by the quick pace of Johnson’s writing and the winding plot. There is legal jargon to give this legal thriller credence, but not so much that your brain goes on information-overload. “Critical Reaction” is smart, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written legal thriller.

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"The Dream Thieves" by Maggie Stiefvater

It would appear that multiple books I wanted to review based on my “Unofficial Criteria” came out this fall. Good thing I mentioned my Unofficial Criteria list, as last month contained one-book-only reviews!

            Here is another … (with possible spoilers ahead)

The Dream Thieves (Sept. 17, 2013) by Maggie Stiefvater.

In dreams, there be monsters. Just ask Ronan Lynch. As vexing as usual, Ronan has a very big secret. He can take things out of his dreams. Car keys. A wooden box. A Night Terror. The discovery of Cabeswater in the first book affects the storyline of this one. Ronan is tied to Cabeswater, but how? Why? Could the answer be at The Barns, the childhood home he’s been banned from since his father’s death? Ronan has a lot to come to terms with. Unhappy, handsome, vicious Ronan is more complex than he appears. He isn’t always a sarcastic, toxic drunkard. On rare occasion, he’s even kind … but don’t get used to it.

            Richard Campbell Gansey the III is a desperate man. Er, teenager. He is elite-of-the-elite at Aglionby Academy, like the picture-perfect poster-child of the school and even has a name practically reeking of importance. Surely he uses his suave side most of the time. But right now he’s desperately searching for the long-lost, practically mythological, Welsh king Glendower. He feels Glendower’s revival must be close since the awakening of the ley line, but he’s not finding him. Nor are his friends. Something is off about the line. Sometimes there are surges to suggest the ley line is overfed, but there are also outages to suggest that the line is starved.

            Seeing apparitions is not normal, yet Adam Parrish is seeing them. He has connected himself to Cabeswater, but he doesn’t know what the forest wants from him. What does he want for himself? Does he even know anymore?

            Blue Sargent is back in the story, though Noah Czerny isn’t as much. There’s also the appearance of the Gray Man. He’s been sent to retrieve the Greywaren for his boss, Dr. Colin Greenmantle. Unfortunately, he doesn’t know exactly what a Greywaren is. Is it a box?

            The second installment in Stiefvater’s The Raven Cycle is magical. Not magical in a nice-vacation-to-Walt-Disney-World way, but in a darker, more secretive way. The atmosphere isn’t light and fluffy; instead, it tends toward the tense, moody and brooding. That isn’t to say there aren’t light moments – there are – and there’s sarcasm. In more than one instance that sarcasm is based on dirty connotations, and there is some strong language (for those concerned). Through all of this, Stiefvater somehow melds completely different worlds with ease: old money with no money, the magical and the non-magical, the sensitive and the aggressive, the thoughtful and the reactive, and Ronan. Even with all the perspectives, this book is really Ronan’s story, and whether he likes it or not, he’s a young adult of opposites. Highly recommend!

            Book One in The Raven Cycle: The Raven Boys
            Also see: The Scorpio Races

GIVEAWAY: "Degrees of Wrong"

For the first time … I am having a GIVEAWAY!

This is a giveaway relating to “Degrees of Wrong” by Anna Scarlett. I haven’t read that book, but I am already a fan of her Syrena trilogy. The first two books are Of Poseidon and Of Triton, but were published under the name Anna Banks. The third book, Of Neptune, will be released next year.

            “What is the giveaway?” you ask. Answer: I have a limited number of bookmarks and sample booklets to give away. They are all autographed by the author.

            Entering is simple. All you have to do is comment on this blog post. This is a MUST! Do not shoot me an e-mail, send me a text or call me. You will be eligible only if you comment on this blog post. You don’t have to say anything elaborate. You can tell me ‘hello’ or let me know what you’re reading or just say you want to be entered. Just comment! You must be a U.S. resident to enter, because, I’m sorry, I’m not very good about getting to the Post Office. I will take comments through December 13, 2013.

            Again, I have a limited number of bookmarks and sample booklets available. I ask that you do not share your preference, as I cannot guarantee that winners will receive their number one choices. You do not have to know me to enter this giveaway, so please spread the word. Winners will be announced on or around December 15, so keep an eye on this post!

-- Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this Media Mail from the author. I was not compensated for having this giveaway or for promoting her book and am in no way personally connected to the author. Additionally, I am not obligated to purchase “Degrees of Wrong,” nor is anyone who receives a bookmark or sample booklet through me.

"Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein

Do you ever notice those books others talk about but you haven’t yet read? You think to yourself that you must read it when you get the chance, but you don’t get to it right away because you forget/you have other books you want to read first/life happens. That was the case for me with this book, and I’m so glad I finally took the time to read it.

Code Name Verity (May 15, 2012) by Elizabeth Wein.

There is truth and there is “truth.” The story begins with Verity, an at-first nameless wireless operator. She’s a petite and pretty gal, captured in Nazi-occupied France because of an oversight on her part. Such a small thing, but so large in the big picture. Her bones haven’t been broken, but her captors have tried to break her all the same. She’s given them information, and the other prisoners think she’s a traitor. Now she’s writing down her story to prolong her life. Julie, who has gone by other names and is formally Lady Julia Lindsay MacKenzie Wallace Beaufort-Stuart, can be quite cheeky despite her dire situation. Surely it gets her in trouble and most definitely makes for nasty interrogations, but she will have her say. She will write and write until she can’t and when that time comes, she’ll know that “I have told the truth. I have told the truth.”

            Part 2 centers on Kittyhawk, who’s actually Margaret “Maddie” Brodatt. She is a pilot during a war that didn’t have many women pilots. Her interest blooms after she witnesses an aircraft crash. In fact, when she sees it, she applauds. This is done without thinking about the pilot and any physical harm that might’ve come upon the pilot. When they reach the aircraft, they discover that the pilot is a girl. A girl. And Maddie thinks logically to herself that since she’s never crashed her motorbike, surely she can fly an airplane. The crashed pilot, Dympna Wythenshawe, helps her pilot interests along. Her flying skills take a nosedive when she’s stationed as a licensed radio operator during the war. But not for always. She eventually finds herself in the air again, even running secret missions. All professionalism. No conversation. Until she crosses paths with Julie again. There is something great about spending time with one’s best friend. But how extra awful it is when they’re separated. Especially when Maddie doesn’t know where Julie is.

            This book is TOO MUCH. It is heartbreaking, sad, dangerous, horrible, powerful and wonderful. It is historical fiction personified. The research is apparent, yet it’s blended with the fictional writing so seamlessly. The plot is complex, the narrative is gripping, and the fear is almost tangible. “Code Name Verity” is a captivating-thriller-of-a-historical-young-adult novel. It is also a story of friendship and bravery and courage. It is a multi-layered story that is certainly not for the faint of heart. I highly recommend that you read this account of Verity and Kittyhawk. For they are a sensational team.

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 14

The books for this compilation have been spread out over many months. I first saved this document, nicknamed “YA Reads 2,” back in April. It’s now already November! Yes, the following books all fall into the category of young adult. As before, I hope that you’ll read this post whether you frequently read YA titles, occasionally read them or refuse to read them but know people who do.

Fury (Aug. 30, 2011) by Elizabeth Miles.

Revenge is sweet in the fictional town of Ascension, Maine, but who’s on the receiving end? Emily Winters should be enjoying winter break. There’s no school, there are parties to attend, and handsome Zach McCord is finally noticing her. Perhaps he’ll invite her over to his house. But wait. Em shouldn’t want that, because Zach is the boyfriend of Gabby Dove. And Gabby Dove is Em’s best friend. Then there’s Chase Singer. He lives on the other side of town, but he doesn’t like it to show. He wears the right clothes, is star quarterback on the football team and can get pretty much any girl he wants. After all, he belongs. But Chase has a secret of cruelty. Luke 6:31 states, “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (NRSV). That may ring truer than Chase could ever believe. Who decides their fate? Enacts the revenge? In this case, three beautiful, mystifying girls. They’ve come to Ascension for a reason. They want to make people feel sorry for their wrongdoings … But sometimes sorry isn’t enough.

            Although I mentioned the verse from Luke, “Fury” isn’t at all biblical. Think more mythological. The concept is a good one, and the writing is solid; strong language is used more than infrequently. The three girls really are as cold as deep winter and are deadly to boot. “Fury” didn’t seduce me, but it held my attention most of the time. While there are paranormal elements, it isn’t only young adult paranormal fiction. It can also bring about discussion of bullying and vengeance. The girls are all about the latter and sometimes even the former to reach the latter. Perhaps it will be addressed in later books, but the big question for me was: Why them? What makes them any worse than anyone else performing the same cruel or devious acts? Why choose someone who covets another over one who, say, takes lives? And why do these girls get to decide? Can they be bested?

Of Triton (May 28, 2013) by Anna Banks.

WARNING: UNAVOIDABLE* SPOILERS INCLUDED

Big secrets are fun, right? Emma McIntosh already knows about the Syrena and what it is to be a Half-Breed, but of course the news doesn’t end there. Now she’s trying to digest the fact that her mother is a long-lost Poseidon princess. Nalia has momentarily returned to the sea, but Emma has to stay on land. Where does she belong? She’s a freak amongst humans and an abomination amongst Syrena. But it turns out her mom isn’t having an easy time of things, either. She’s been gone for so long, and seeds of doubt have been planted by someone in the Poseidon camp. Seeds that say that Nalia isn’t Nalia the long-lost, long-thought-dead Poseidon princess, even though King Antonis is convinced she’s his daughter. He would know his own progeny, right? The troublemaker, unfortunately, is doing a better job of turning his Loyals against the Royals than the Royals are convincing them of the truth. A Tribunal, unheard of for Royals, has been called upon them. Things don’t appear to be in their favor, which could mean a trip to the Ice Caverns for them -- for their eternity. Emma may be the only one who can show them that the Royals are telling the truth and the troublemaker is the liar. But will she reveal her Gift to both Syrena kingdoms and let all the pieces fall where they may?

            Like its predecessor, “Of Triton” is told from the alternating viewpoints of Emma and Galen. Also like its predecessor, it is infused with humor, teenage sarcasm and overall literary entertainment value. The romance between Emma and Galen continues to blossom, though it’s not steamy. There aren’t any new, major, supporting characters introduced in this installment, but we do get to know some of the other supporting characters a little more (e.g. King Antonis). I highly recommend this book to anyone with watery intrigue interests.

            Book One in the trilogy: Of Poseidon

* Might the spoilers actually be avoidable? Perhaps. But considering the spoilers I listed are included on the inside of the dust jacket, I deemed them ‘unavoidable.’

Sapphire Blue (Oct. 30, 2012) by Kerstin Gier. Anthea Bell, translator.

Oh, to be a time-traveling member of the Circle of Twelve! But really, Gwen Shepherd would rather be a normal teenager. Instead she’s having lessons of historical period correctness with the dramatically unpleasant grouch called Giordano (“just Giordano”) and her horrid cousin Charlotte Montrose. The striking, green-eyed, time-traveling counterpart of Gwen’s, Gideon de Villiers, is also around, but Gwen doesn’t really know what to think of him half the time. Sometimes Gideon’s as hot as a blazing fire, and her mind is more blancmange than actual mind. Other times he’s as cold as ice, giving her such frigid glares that her heart could shatter like glass. No one knows what the Circle’s completion really means, and any other truths out there are being kept from Gwen, which she thinks is hardly fair. Most of the members don’t trust Gwen. Where does Gideon stand? Does he see her as a trustworthy person or as a traitor? At least she has her best friend, Lesley Hay, on her side. And don’t forget her new friend Xemerius, a stone gargoyle that’s the ghost of a demon that no other living person around her can see.

            Questions remain unanswered in this second book, though some are coming to light. This YA novel of light science fiction is one I find captivating. There’s also light romance, secrecy, adventure and more than a few tense and embarrassing moments. There are reunions in the past, if that makes sense; there’s even a Japanese kitchen knife (for protection, of course). “Sapphire Blue” contains plenty of humor, though I feel I chuckled aloud more reading the first book. Either way, I found this novel to be entertaining. And Gwen is a [mostly] typical teenager who’s filled with gumption and worries, not to mention schoolgirl crushes. She seems more real than not, which is not a small thing in a world of science fiction.

            Book One in the trilogy: Ruby Red

Transparent (May 21, 2013) by Natalie Whipple.

It’s one thing to feel invisible and another to actually be invisible. Just ask Fiona McClean. Invisible from birth, Fiona is a criminal syndicate baby, daughter of Jonas O’Connell. He controls Las Vegas and the northern west: Sacramento up to Seattle and over to Boise. Due to a drug called Radiasure, an antiradiation pill, much of the population has at least some mutation in their genes. Fiona’s the only invisible person, though, while her dad is a charmer. Her mom’s ability lies with telekinesis. After her dad makes a demand unlike one he’s yet given her, Fiona and her mom flee to Arizona and the territory of Juan Torres. She enrolls at a place as normal as Madison High School, where most people are wary/afraid/jealous of her. She makes a couple good friends in the process – Bea and Brady – and befriends many others. She’s gone through life with no friends and suddenly she has The Pack. All it took was a change of scenery and the strength to get away. But can she stay away forever? Jonas doesn’t want Fiona and her mom back because he misses them; they are valuable tools, and he wants his possessions.

            Debut author Natalie Whipple takes the awkwardness and pain of being a teenager and turns it on its head by adding in a drug and genetic mutations that run the gamut of fantastical abilities (e.g. Strong Arms) and strange phenomena (e.g. a green person or a baby born smelling like roses). It’s whip-smart, fast-reading and totally entertaining. There’s a cuss word here and there, but it shouldn’t make anyone cringe too much. Fiona frets more often than I would like, but it’s easy to ignore with Whipple’s fun writing. She’s definitely gained a fan in me!

Venom (Oct. 30, 2012) by Fiona Paul.

Venice, Italy, is La Serenissima: the most serene. But underneath its veneer of serenity lies a Venice that is dark and dangerous, sensual and sinful. Cassandra Caravello is a young noblewoman of society, though she lives with her aunt outside of Venice on nearby San Domenico Island. She is grieving the death of a young countess friend, but when she goes into the cemetery to say goodbye, she discovers the body of a viciously murdered woman who’s definitely not Liviana. That same night she crosses paths with a handsome artist. His name is Falco da Padova. Falco stirs feelings in Cass that she has not felt before. That’s very troublesome on two levels: First of all, he’s a commoner. Second, she’s already betrothed. Her fiancé’s name is Luca da Peraga. Luca is away studying in France, so together Falco and Cass turn into amateur sleuths. Because it’s apparent that the murderer knows who Cass is, and he wants her dead. But why? Will the killer be captured before more bodies turn up? For all of Renaissance Venice’s beauty, Cass is going to find that the most serene city can be quite dirty and ugly. And no, I’m not just referring to the emptying of chamber pots into the street … though there is that, too.

            “Venom” is Paul’s debut historical mystery and romance novel. I like how each chapter was preceded by an “excerpt” from The Book of the Eternal Rose. Nothing is mentioned of that fictional book within the novel, but my guess is that it will come into play before the trilogy’s end. I think Paul’s world-building is believable; I could picture Venice vividly through reading the author’s writing. However, I felt like this book was 100 pages too long, but it is full of detail. There are some potentially steamy and/or more mature moments (for any concerned). “Venom” is fairly predictable, but this is not a bad story, as the reader can tell that Cass is emerging from her affluently naïve cocoon and learning about the world outside her, even when that world is next door.

"A Talent for Trouble" by Jen Turano

A Talent for Trouble (Oct. 1, 2013) by Jen Turano.*

In New York City in 1881, Miss Felicia Murdock is apparently not on the same page as God when it comes to a choice of husband. Preparing herself to be a minister’s wife may have garnered her high praise from the local congregants, but it didn’t garner her a ministerial husband. Felicia isn’t naturally so demure as her outward actions and personality seem to suggest, though she truly does have a kind heart. She decides to make changes in her life, one of the most noticeable changes centering around her wardrobe (all for the better!). It’s like she’s a whole new person now! She might even go so far as to dress like a man, complete with trousers and a mustachioed upper lip! Does that sound like a demure character to you?

            Felicia’s wardrobe transformation – like an 1881 version of What Not to Wear – doesn’t go unnoticed by Grayson Sumner, formerly Lord Sefton and still Lord Sefton when he feels the situation warrants it. Grayson has a past that he is not proud of; therefore, it wouldn’t be in Felicia’s best interests to be pursued by him. After all, she is all kindness and modesty and proper etiquette. Right? Surely she would never do anything to garner attention of the raised-eyebrow sort. Besides, Grayson has his hands full trying to exude fatherliness to three-year-old Ming. Lately she’s resorted to tantrums and biting, and he has no idea how to handle it.

            As if figuring out parenting isn’t enough, Grayson’s past has caught up to his present. Anyone associated with him could be in grave danger. He doesn’t want any harm to come to Felicia. It’s already said that Felicia has a talent for trouble, but Grayson’s past is dangerously troublesome.

            I love to read of strong female characters. That doesn’t mean they’re superheroes. They can be as demure-seeming as Felicia. She may reside in the latter 1800s and she knows of propriety, but she also knows she has a voice and strength. Her character utilizes this knowledge through bravery and kindness. She doesn’t look down upon the downtrodden. Grayson may have a difficult past, but he’s got an adventurous spirit, and the two are well-suited. Both are whip-smart and quick-tongued at times; they go together like thunder and lightning. Turano creates a landscape that is cleverly written and well-balanced. There is high society and the slums, love and anger, happiness and sadness, faithfulness and a lack of, and an element of danger. Don’t ignore Turano’s books if you enjoy Christian historical fiction!

            Also by Jen Turano: A Most Peculiar Circumstance

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan

There are many, many books that I’ve looked forward to reading this year, but none so much as this one. For this reason, it gets its own standalone post! For other posts containing books by Rick Riordan, click here and here and here and here. Smiley face! :-)

WARNING: If you have not read The Heroes of Olympus series, there may be spoilers.

The House of Hades (Oct. 8, 2013) by Rick Riordan.

Things are not going well. Not that they ever do for a demigod, but things are extra bad right now. Those flying aboard the Argo II can’t catch a break. From mountain gods hurling mountain boulders to a carnivorous sea turtle, life is definitely not smooth-sailing. Cupid makes an appearance, but this Roman god of love is no St. Valentine’s guy with wings shooting cute love arrows. Hazel Levesque is at a crossroads. All the ways look bleak. She can take the statue to Camp Half-Blood and hopefully stop Camp Jupiter from attacking or she can continue to Epirus and the House of Hades to close the Doors of Death from the mortal side and battle someone she will lose to unless she learns to control Mist.

            Leo Valdez is a mechanical whiz, but it’ll be a challenge finding a way to fight anti-fire with fire. Frank Zhang is busy feeling like the LVP – Least Valuable Player – and is determined to be worthy of the quest they’re all on. Jason Grace is on the fence. Now that he’s spent time in both camps, is he more Roman or Greek? He’ll have to decide at some point; lives will depend on it. Piper McLean may disagree with Frank’s idea that he’s the LVP, as she struggles with her own level of worthiness. She’ll have to prove to herself that she’s as adept as her comrades, lest they find themselves permanently stuck in a cold situation. After all, blueberry muffins shot out of a magic cornucopia can only distract for so long! Nico di Angelo has a secret that’s been eating away at him and has caused him no end of bitterness, hurt and even hatred. Cupid is surely not on his list of favorite gods.

            Can things get any worse for Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase? Even death might be a step up from their current location. They’re in Tartarus. They’re exhausting themselves trying to survive and reach the Doors of Death, as they must be closed so that the monsters can’t keep returning to the surface by way of elevator music. Percy’s friend, Bob, comes to their aid, but Percy hasn’t been the friend he should’ve been, and that may cost him much-needed help. Annabeth is grappling with the difficulty of forming strategic plans in a place so dangerous and desolate. How do you fight a being? Tartarus isn’t just a place; he’s the essence of the abyss and husband to Gaea, the Earth Mother. How do you fight the earth, the ground that you walk on, live on, sleep on?

            I had high expectations for this book, and I was not disappointed. Riordan writes with his signature sarcasm and wit. Riordan’s mythology-based books are full of action and adventure, and I love that. “The House of Hades” is busy and intense, not in a scare-your-pants-off way, but in a high-octane, full-throttle, action-and-adventure-to-the-max way.  It is a great read for so many reasons. A few: (1) It is entertaining literature for both guys and gals; (2) You can brush up on your mythology knowledge, learn it yourself or use it as a teaching tool in the classroom; (3) It is just an overall riveting read. Give Riordan’s books a try if you haven’t already! Oh, and do be careful of the ground you walk on. Gaea is stirring …

"Antigoddess" by Kendare Blake

Antigoddess (Sept. 10, 2013) by Kendare Blake.

The thing we grow up hearing about mythology – whether it’s Greek or Egyptian or Norse (and on and on) – is that gods are immortal. As in, undying and everlasting. Right? But what about a present time when the [Greek] gods are dying? Persephone’s already passed on. Understandable, as she was already half-dead as queen of the underworld. Her mother, the goddess of the harvest (or agriculture), is not yet dead, but she’s stretched thin, as she’s “used as the earth is used.” Athena, ever the goddess of wisdom and strategy (highly useful in battle situations), isn’t about to die lying down. She’s trying to stop this twilight of the gods. It’s mostly selfish, though, because who wants to fight feathers? The messenger god Hermes is with her. Known for thievery and not for courage, he’s a flight risk, though not literally a flight risk right now since he doesn’t have the strength to fly. Winged sandals aren’t going to help him now!

            Cassandra Weaver is an ordinary high school student. Well, sort of ordinary. She wins at coin tosses every time and sometimes has visions of the future. Her boyfriend, Aidan Baxter, loves this about her, and she totally loves him. And what’s not to love? Aidan is fun-loving, reassuring, gorgeous and wholly dedicated to Cassandra. But Cassandra has a past she doesn’t remember. In that past, she was a great prophetess, but back then, her ability was far more a curse than a gift. Cassandra doesn’t realize this, even though she’s been “seeing” bloody and violent things lately. Aidan is there to comfort her, and her best friend, Andie Legendre, and brother, Henry, are nearby, too. What is the meaning of her visions? Why are they happening now? What does it all mean?

            Anyone who keeps one type of image in mind regarding Greek mythology better avoid this book. Just forewarning you. While weak, the gods still have power, but the virgin goddess depicted in a toga is far from the punk Athena in this young adult novel. There are so many questions, as this is the first in a new series, but this kick-off book is very well-imagined. The humor is often wry, which only makes the book more enjoyable to read: “It was rude to stomp your aunt, no matter how dire the situation.” “Antigoddess” is a thrilling adventure of mythology, love, gore and the process of dying. It’s also about discovering one’s true self, though Cassandra’s case is far more unusual than ours would be, as hers is of a supernatural sort. It’s not a depressing book (well, maybe a little); it has suspense and prowess, good and bad. Oh, and Greek tragedy, of course! (For those concerned, there are also scattered expletives.)

            As someone who read this book and is also a fan of Rick Riordan’s mythology-based  books (e.g. Percy Jackson), I want to note how different they are. And rightly so. First off, Riordan’s novels, while enjoyed by a wide age-range, are still considered middle grade. Blake’s “Antigoddess” is young adult with a touch of horror. Riordan’s books are far more kid-friendly than Blake’s. Both authors write great books, but please don’t insult them by trying to compare them. They are different authors with different target age groups. Appreciate their interpretations. After all, even the “historical” mythologies you can research out there have differing interpretations. So why not present-day authors?

            Also by Kendare Blake: Anna Dressed in Blood and Girl of Nightmares

AUTHOR EVENT: RICK RIORDAN

I’m a very happy camper, and just to be fair, let’s presume that I am a camper at both Camp Half-Blood and Camp Jupiter. That said, let’s also presume that I can be in two places at once, which of course I really can’t be, but it’s all in the matter of fairness.

            A great big thank-you goes out to my soon-to-be sister-in-law, Katie, for attending the event with me and driving us. We found ourselves at the St. Louis County Library right before suppertime. As neither of us had attended an author event before, we really didn’t know what to expect. Surely you know this already if you’ve attended a RICK RIORDAN author event, but if you haven’t before, here’s what to expect …

            Expect AWESOME! Rick Riordan was a spectacular public speaker – must’ve been his years as a schoolteacher! – and was hilarious to boot. I laughed a lot. My event photo is sort of blurry; obviously I don’t have the best camera ever. Ah, well, you get the picture. (Yes. Pun intended!)

Rick Riordan arrives on-stage!

This shirt is a spoil of war.*

* Disclaimer: This wasn't actually a spoil of war, though I still consider obtaining one to be a victory. Additionally, no demigods, real or imagined, were harmed in the process of obtaining this shirt.

"The Chaos of Stars" by Kiersten White

The Chaos of Stars (Sept. 10, 2013) by Kiersten White.

Parents that expect you to obey them? Pretty common. Parents that expect you to worship them? Not so much. But for Isadora, praying to her parents is expected even though she disapproves of it. Her parents are Isis and Osiris, the Egyptian goddess of motherhood and magic and the god of the afterlife, respectively. It sounds cool and impressive, but Isadora is so over them. Her dad acts like he doesn’t care about her, and her mom seems to just want her around as a worshipper. Do they even remember her name? Because her brother, Horus (god of war and protection), and her half-brother, Anubis (god of funerals and embalming), never do.  She is mortal and seemingly insignificant because of that.

            Isis portends that bad things will happen. Dreams of darkness and danger. So she sends Isadora to her mortal brother, Sirus, in San Diego. This is exactly what she wants, to be far away from her parents. And, bonus, Sirus actually remembers her name, though it helps, I suppose, that he’s her closest-in-age sibling. So Isadora goes to San Diego without telling her mother what she’s actually been dreaming. It isn’t all sunshine and purple hippos, after all. Fortunately, she’ll make a few friends, which is a few more than she had living in Egypt. There’s Ry (who, oh no, is full-blooded Greek), Tyler (a she, by-the-way) and Scott (Tyler’s boyfriend). She has fun with them, but it can’t mask the darkness coming that she can’t explain, nor can it explain the break-ins. Oh, floods, what is going on?

            “The Chaos of Stars” is an entertaining gem of a book. It also has a lovely cover. Kiersten White writes with the sarcasm and humor I’ve come to associate with her books. Isadora is an inherently selfish character, which is easy to blame on her parentage -- two godly parents and all. It’s also too easy to blow off a selfish character as therefore annoying and abhorrent and shallow, but as you read, you understand why she feels like she does. Her parents don’t seem to deem her existence important; she feels unimportant in their eyes. In other words, despite living with them, she feels a sense of loneliness and abandonment. Abandonment by the ones who should love her most. Isadora has a lot to learn, and this young adult novel is a fast ride with ups, downs, twists and betrayals. There’s also friendship, laughter and a budding romance. Ooh, and danger, too, but not intense danger.

            Putting thousands of miles between herself and her parents will show Isadora that family isn’t black and white. Only love or only disdain. One right way or one wrong way. She should know that with the Egyptian history (mythology) her parents have, but she doesn’t. Or doesn’t want to. Family is forever, even during the times we don’t want to claim them!

            By Kiersten White: Paranormalcy, Supernaturally, and Endlessly

            Also by Kiersten White: Mind Games

UNOFFICIAL CRITERIA

I plan to continue with my compilation theme, but I’ve decided it might be nice to post one-book reviews more often than I have. How will I choose which ones will be standalone reviews? My personal, unofficial criteria will be based on one or multiple criteria.

[1] The book is by a favorite author.

[2] The book is in a trilogy/series I really enjoy.

[3] I’ve been waiting FOREVER (or a year-ish) to read the book!

[4] I received a free copy of the book from the publisher.

[5] I just feel like it!

"Rebellious Heart" by Jody Hedlund

Rebellious Heart (Sept. 15, 2013) by +Jody Hedlund.*

Growing up a woman in 1763 puts expectations on Susanna Smith of domesticity and docility. Indeed, she has been an outwardly obedient daughter, and she has a compassionate heart, giving to the poor women of the parish and teaching their daughters to read and write. Susanna is quick-witted and wishes she had the learning opportunities of men regarding higher education. She’d even be happy to just sit in on her younger brother’s lessons. Susanna’s a young woman of faith, and she says, “Scripture commands us to obey our leaders and submit to those in authority. God’s Word isn’t open to subjective interpretation.” When Susanna crosses paths with a terrified runaway indentured servant who’s obviously been subjected to horrors, how will she proceed? To aid a runaway is treasonous, but how can she turn away the young woman?

            Benjamin Ross is a poor country lawyer Susanna hasn’t seen in years. She said something very regrettable to him in his youth, and Ben isn’t sure she’s changed in the intervening years. Ben witnesses her intelligence and independent spirit, and he’s unwittingly drawn to her. He tries not to think of Susanna; it’s useless anyway, as her parents don’t approve of him. He may be a Harvard-educated lawyer now, but her parents – and mother especially – still see him as the shoemaker’s son, which in Mrs. Smith’s mind, makes him a nobody. Pairing Ben and Susanna together would be a “disadvantageous match.”

            Besides, Ben has embarked on a dangerous road. He wants to impact the world for the better, which may mean opposing outrageous British taxes. Both Ben and Susanna get involved with the Redcoats in the area and not in a neutral way. It will be dangerous.

            Hedlund’s plot asks readers: Which is more important? Doing what is right or solely abiding by the rules of a sovereign? This Christian historical fiction novel is filled with faith and trepidation, compassion and ruthlessness, love and murder. It’s even loosely based on a specific couple from history. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys any or all of the following: Christian fiction, romance, historical tales and/or whodunit? plots.

            See also: A Noble Groom

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"Stranded" by Dani Pettrey

Stranded (Oct. 1, 2013) by +Dani Pettrey.*

Investigative journalism isn’t for everyone, but Abby Walsh loves it. She’s onto a major story, but it’s scaring her, so she calls upon her friend and former college roommate to assist. Darcy St. James returns to Alaska to join Abby, only to discover that Abby is no longer aboard the Bering cruise ship. She is troubled by the crew members’ indifference to her disappearance and is suspicious of some of the stories she hears. What story was Abby onto? And did it cost Abby her life?

            Darcy finds God’s role in her life to be a vital one, especially as she tries to locate Abby. Returning to Alaska brings her close to the McKenna family again. She’s thrilled to reunite with them, and she’s especially happy to see Gage McKenna. She may be unwilling to admit this, though. Gage is still as handsome and athletic and outdoorsy as she remembered; he’s still also judgmental and annoying in regard to her. It’s not that Gage doesn’t care; he wants to care, but he’s afraid to. Fortunately or unfortunately, they’ll see a lot of each other since Gage has been brought aboard the Bering to lead adventure excursions. Delving for information will prove to be a joint effort even bigger than those two can handle. It will put them in dangerous, exciting, uncomfortable, and yes, even jealous, situations. What they’ll uncover is worse than they thought.

            “Stranded” is the newest inspirational romantic suspense novel from Dani Pettrey. It’s the second book I’ve read by Pettrey, and since it’s part of a connected series, I enjoyed reading about characters I’d been introduced to in “Shattered.” Contrary to its title, it won’t leave you high and dry; there is closure. Pettrey seems to be especially good with weaving relationships of all kinds: family ties, romantic interests, friendships, faith. There’s nothing steamy about the novel, but there are harrowing moments and cold Alaskan adventures. And although “Stranded” is a work of fiction, somehow not going on a cruise sounds like a good plan …

            Book Two in the Alaskan Courage series: Shattered

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are expressly my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 13

In this +Scholastic books compilation, there are a couple titles for the younger readers you know and a couple for the older. Please note that I have no material connection to anyone who works for Scholastic or authors any books marketed through the company. I am simply a bookworm who supports the Scholastic Brand!

But and For, Yet and Nor: What is a Conjunction? (Mar. 1, 2010) by Brian P. Cleary.

   Brian Gable, illustrator.

“But and For, Yet and Nor” is just one of many books in Cleary’s Words are CATegorical series. His series focuses on different parts of speech, but by avenue of high-spirited rhyme that presents grammar-learning in a fun, carefree way and not an I’d-rather-get-my-teeth-pulled way. In this book, Cleary concentrates on conjunctions, not only giving the definition of them, but especially by giving examples in word and type. To name a few, he explains how they can bridge phrases or link words and even brings up the common misconception that conjunctions can’t start a sentence. I think these books are terrific, and I highly recommend them for school and classroom libraries. They’re wonderful books for intermediate elementary students and their teachers.

            How many conjunctions can you spot in this summary/review?

Ladybug Girl (Mar. 13, 2008) by David Soman & Jacky Davis.

Little Lulu is Ladybug Girl. She’s got to find her own fun, because her parents have work to do. She momentarily puts on her pouty face, but finds adventure out-of-doors with her dog, Bingo, after her big brother denies her request to play with him. He tells her she’s too little, but she thinks that is ridiculous in her preschool-age way.

            Like so many children, Lulu finds adventure through her imagination. She’s a self-appointed hero with her trusty sidekick, Bingo. This cute tale provides a platform for empowering youngsters using a subtle, fun and kid-friendly approach. The watercolor and line illustrations catch Bingo’s adorably floppy ears and Lulu’s adventures, not to mention Lulu herself in her ladybug costume. She positively stands out amidst the almost-muted backdrops. But I suppose that is the point. After all, Lulu is Ladybug Girl, and she is not too little!

Spellbinding (Apr. 1, 2013) by Maya Gold.

When her teacher gives the class a genealogy assignment, sixteen-year-old Abby Silva discovers she’s the descendent of an accused witch of the Salem Witch Trials. As she delves into her ancestry, mysterious things occur: objects move without aid and things catch fire. Abby doesn’t want to believe that she willed those things to happen. She just wants to be a “normal” teenager, albeit one who’s less invisible and more confident. She wants her school’s “it” boy, Travis Brown, to look at her instead of his odious girlfriend. There’s also the baffling yet attractive Rem Anders, who lives and works in nearby Salem. He’s hot and cold, but perhaps for good reason. Can Abby make sense of her ancestry and who she is before a reckoning tries to make the choice for her?

            This book is like a much lighter version of Stephen King’s “Carrie.” This YA paranormal novel read more like upper middle-grade fiction. That doesn’t mean it’s a watered down book with no substance. It has plenty of conflict. There’s conflict of the regular high-school-garden variety in the forms of friend issues and mean girls. Then there’s the paranormal variety such as magic and ill-intentioned witches. It keeps the reader’s attention with individual characters and an easily-visualized setting. The ending is tied up like a nice bow. Could it have been darker and more intense? Sure, but not all books have to be, and it is fine that “Spellbinding” isn’t. After all, it’s by Maya Gold and not by Stephen King.

Splendors and Glooms (Aug. 28, 2012) by Laura Amy Schlitz.

Though he has more rags than riches, Gaspare Grisini is a master puppeteer. His prowess with the puppet theatre catches Clara Wintermute’s fancy, so he comes to the Wintermute home to put on a show for her twelfth birthday party. The daughter of a wealthy and renowned physician, Clara never wants for necessities and then some. The opposite is true of Grisini’s orphaned assistants, Lizzie Rose Fawr and Parsefall Hooke. Their clothes are shabby, recompense is miserly, and they never know if they’ll have enough for a next meal. To them, the Wintermute home represents everything they don’t have: doting parents, an abundance of food, warmth, riches. Clara is enamored with the puppet theatre, but then she disappears. Grisini is suspected of kidnapping her, and Lizzie Rose and Parsefall are determined to solve the mystery. As they investigate, they open up Grisini’s suspicious past and his wicked intentions. Unbeknownst to them, they flee London only to be ensnared by Grisini’s rival, an old witch with two inheritances to dole out. One is amazing, the other is deadly.

            Schlitz earned a Newberry Honor for this middle-grade, historical fantasy novel. This story mixes magic and mystery, mishaps and misdeeds in order to create a mystical literary concoction. The book is more serious than not, but it is richly written. It is dark, but not so dark that I wouldn’t let a twelve-year-old read it. For those concerned, British slang is used, and I did see one instance of a word that rhymes with “stitch.” The splendors of the book are wondrous and positive, whereas the glooms are frightening and nightmarish (to the characters, not to you). Schlitz’s narrative and characters are so well-drawn that one can’t help but be swept up into the story, unsettling bits and all.

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 12

If you didn’t know before, I’m sure you’ve realized by now that my favored books usually fall into the young adult (YA) category. This compilation features all YA titles. If you enjoy reading YA novels, read on. If YA is not your thing, I encourage you to read on anyway. Even if you don’t find something that appeals to you, maybe you’ll find the next big read for a YA reader that you do know!

Everneath (Jan. 24, 2012) by Brodi Ashton.

There is an underworld known as the Everneath. Those who live forever are called Everlivings. Cole Stockton is an Everliving, which means he needs to completely drain the emotions off one person every century in the Feed to give him another century of “life.” Those that Everlivings feed off of are called Forfeits. They feed for a century in Everneath years, but that’s only six months in Surface years. Nikki Beckett is a Forfeit, but Cole’s surprised when she looks like herself after the Feed. She doesn’t know how that happened; she just kept thinking of her boyfriend, Jack Caputo. Because Nikki looks the same, Cole wants her to become an Everliving like him and capture the throne. Nikki wants to remain on the Surface, but she only has six months before the Shades claim her for the Tunnels for eternity. If she can prevent her return to the Everneath, she wants to do it, because finding the words to say good-bye to her family and friends is far more daunting.

            The initial thing I learned about this book was that it’s a retelling of the Persephone myth. The initial thing I thought when I read that the immortal characters feed on the emotions of others was, “Oh, they’re like vampires, except instead of craving blood, they crave emotions.” Is that weird? Yes. But the weirdest? No. I like the inspiration of the myth that the story comes from and Ashton’s first-person narration of Nikki shows the difficulty of building back up all that she lost (in feelings and relationships). I never had to muddle through the book, but sometimes the reading felt slower to me, though it gained speed near the end of the book. I think the plot is interesting, and I do wonder about the fate of the star-crossed lovers.

Illuminate (Mar. 6, 2012) by Aimee Agresti.

She’s that girl. The one who was found abandoned in the woods when she was five. Now Haven Terra is a sixteen-year-old outcast who’s ordinary, shy and super smart. Along with her classmates Dante and Lance, they receive prestigious internships at Chicago’s ritzy Lexington Hotel under the direction of the young, glamorous and powerful Aurelia Brown and her striking second-in-command, Lucian Grove. Aurelia wields great power and influence. Anyone who is important knows her, and everyone else wants to be part of her A-list group. Haven, Dante and Lance work alongside Aurelia’s striking cohorts known as the Outfit. They get access to the hotel’s exclusive nightclub, Vault, where each night is themed according to one of the seven deadly sins. Haven can’t seem to help falling for Lucian, but her gut tells her something’s off. The Outfit members seem more like robots, and she discovers that Aurelia has a very sordid plan with Haven as her number one target. Aurelia takes directions from the Prince, while Haven begins taking direction from … a blank book. What is Haven’s true role in all of this? Gone are her days of being ordinary, but she will long for those days before the end.

            It’s a confluence of meek and strong, good and bad, timid and powerful. For the most part, I think “Illuminate,” the first in a planned trilogy, is well-written. Her main characters are easily discernible, even Dante, who’s in the wings for most of the book. This YA paranormal suspense tale has none of the broodiness of Twilight, nor the lovey-dovey aspect. I wouldn’t say the book is arresting, but it is magical in its own mysterious way. Foul language is included, but it’s minimal. Watch out for the baddies, though. They’re not grim reapers so much as they’re soul reapers.

Of Poseidon (May 22, 2012) by Anna Banks.

To call them mermaids (or mermen) and to assume they have goldfish-like fantails is to annoy them. They are Syrena, and their powerful tails look like the dorsal fins of sharks. Galen Forza is a twenty-year-old Syrena prince, a Triton Royal. He meets eighteen-year-old Emma McIntosh when she walks into him, literally. Sparks fly instantly between them. Is it something known as the pull? Or, at least for Emma’s part, is the attraction just due to Galen’s handsomeness? Galen and his sister, Rayna, obviously in human form, are on land for a reason. At least Galen is. He’s the Syrena ambassador to the mostly unaware humans while Rayna is the beautiful but rude twin sister who’s avoiding her mate, Toraf. Galen’s had it on good information that there is a girl who can talk to fish. Signs point to Emma, but she doesn’t look like a Syrena. What does that mean? And even if she is of Poseidon, fat lot of good it does Galen, for he can’t rightfully be with her. Which is horrible, because Emma’s the only person he’s ever wanted to kiss.

            This is no Disney’s The Little Mermaid, but I still really enjoyed this novel. “Of Poseidon” is full of humor, teenage sarcasm and the right amount of seriousness to prevent the book from being watered down or tepid. This spirited tale has weight and lots of unanswered questions as the first in a trilogy. Emma and Galen are likable characters despite their sometimes obstinate personalities. Even Rayna is likable, if you can get past her hotheaded exterior. The budding romance is expected and predictable, but not unlikable. The only things I didn’t care for were Emma’s chapters in the first-person and Galen’s in the third. It would’ve flowed better if both narrative viewpoints were the same. But other than that, this fish-out-of-the-sea novel is entertaining!

The Selection (Apr. 24, 2012) by Kiera Cass.

The nation is no longer the United States – it is Illéa – but there is still an America. America Singer is the middle of five children and lives in a nation with a very strict caste system. She and her family are a Five (of eight castes). The system can be very strict, and if you’re caught doing something unacceptable, you suffer for it. Out past curfew? Jail time. Convicted of treason? Death. The Ones live a posh life; they are the royalty and include King Clarkson, Queen Amberly and Prince Maxon Schreave. Prince Maxon is coming of age, and Illéa tradition says that he must find a bride. Whereas a princess would’ve been married off to solidify relations with other countries, a prince married a woman of the people to keep up morale.

            Hence, the selection. America is pressured into applying even though Aspen, a caste below her, is the love of her life. She becomes one of the Selected and is whisked off to a palace to compete (in a ladylike way, of course) for a prince she thinks is boring and for a crown she doesn’t want. But when America actually talks to Prince Maxon, she finds that he isn’t the shallow, too-formal person she thought he was. He’s, well, he’s a gentleman. If Prince Maxon finds favor with her, can she discard her love for Aspen?

            This first in a planned trilogy is affable, but it isn’t wow. The dress descriptions are detailed, but other expected points are not. For instance, what does Illéa look like? And what of the rebel attacks? There are multiple attacks, but no one knows their purpose, and even if they do, there isn’t anything formative mentioned. In short, the book is quaint and charming, but it lacks in world-building. I like America’s headstrong personality, Aspen’s dedication to his family and Prince Maxon’s thoughtfulness. “The Selection” is pegged as a YA dystopian novel, but if you want to read dystopia along the lines of “The Hunger Games” or “Divergent,” this is not the dystopia you’re looking for. Think instead of “The Bachelor,” only in book form.

Unraveling (Apr. 24, 2012) by Elizabeth Norris.

There’s a clock counting down to something that’s likely catastrophic, as if the gelatinous material that used to be flesh and bones on unidentified victims wasn’t proof enough of something unnatural. Janelle Tenner is about to start her junior year of high school and already she has died and been brought back to life. By classmate Ben Michaels. The thing is, she’s never talked to him before. She has defined him as a loner who hangs out with the stoner crowd, along with his buddies, Elijah Palma and Reid Suitor. Her FBI-agent father is on the case regarding the victims and the countdown clock, and Janelle launches her own investigation in a very junior-agent sort-of-way with her best friend, Alex Trechter. Her investigation is going to bring her back to Ben and his buddies. She does attend school some of the time in the novel, manages to help junior agent Taylor Barclay save face in front of a superior (think “ulterior motives”), dodges family friend/agent Ryan “Struz” Struzinski, deals with her mentally unstable mother, cares for her little brother Jared, and even manages a day trip to Disneyland amidst all the chaos. The chaos that is Wave Function Collapse, manipulating molecular structure and multiverse. So pretty much she has to find a way to save the world!

            If you judged this book by its title, you might guess that it’s a dystopian novel, but it’s not. It is science fiction and romance for the YA set, though it’s not heavy sci-fi. Vulgar utterances are present throughout the book, and while it’s not laden with obscenities, they are present often enough, for anyone concerned. Some elements, such as Ben’s healing ability, could’ve been more fully explained (it is part sci-fi, after all), but the story is multi-layered. I appreciated how easy it was to get to know the characters, for they are fleshed out very nicely. Although it isn’t a dystopian novel, I think fans of that genre would like this novel. And likewise if you’re a fan of light science fiction and/or potential end-of-the-world stories.