Love Between Two People Can Make Life Worth Living...

Oh yes...another dystopian society!

Zoe lives in a world with no emotion. Humans have a chip inserted in the back of their necks to prevent any kind of emotional reaction. Once children become adults, there is a permanent chip inserted, so there is never a possibility of recreating the emotional feeling from the past. As a child, the chip may malfunction, or glitch, creating them to feel these emotions. If this happens, citizens are expected to come forward so they can be "fixed". Zoe has been glitching for months; she knows she should turn herself into the officials, but something always seems to stop her. These emotions she's overwhelmed with...they're exciting, new, and maybe they're the cause of these abilities she keeps having.

The day Zoe is called into the office is where she officially meets Adrien, the boy with the turquoise eyes who knows about her glitching and her abilities because he has abilities too. Adrien has premonitions, and he was able to see Zoe's abilities of mentally controlling objects. In a flash, Zoe is transported into the world of the Resistance who want to recreate the world with no chips, no malfunctioning, and no suffocating government control.
As time goes on, Zoe begins to remember the importance of the memories of her past, and her passion for gaining more knowledge grows. She discovers others who have similar abilities, and together they need to find a way to escape the confines of their government before they are found out and eliminated.

Glitch by Heather Anastasiu was a great read. It has just enough of the science fiction aspect in it, so it's not too over your head with technology and chips. Yes yes, I have problems when it goes too far into that stuff. Once you lose me, I am out. But Glitch was perfect. It was really neat to watch Zoe grow and discover these emotions for the first time. The ending was a cliff hanger, of course because it is a trilogy, but it is not really what you had anticipated. Of course some things are too convenient, but the concept is new and it works. Definitely worth a look!

Every Night I Drown and Every Morning I Wake Up Struggling to Breathe

I finished The Forest of Hands and Teeth series by Carrie Ryan almost four years ago, but I felt myself drawn to it once again.

We all know the story, or at the very least you can go back in the tags and check my original posting. I have only finished rereading the first in the series, but in my last entry regarding the novels, I left out a few important pieces to Mary's story.

Mary, Gabry, and Annah are all strong female characters with choices to make, and each of them are trapped in a world with the diseased, the Unconsecrated, the living dead. Of course the story begins with Mary- her village is breached by the zombie hoards, so she and her small group escape with hopes of another world on the outside. However, I could not help but get frustrated with Mary.

Her mother chose the Unconsecrated in order to be reunited with her father. Immediately upon returning to the house, Mary's brother, Jed, refuses to welcome her back into their home partly because his wife has just miscarried, but also because he blames Mary for their mother's death. Mary is tossed into the life of the Sisterhood because no one claims her. She experiences rejection from all sides; the love of her life, Travis: who has claimed her best friend, her mother: who chose death and the unliving rather than her own daughter, and now her brother. The reader can't help but feel such sorrow for this young woman. She is forced into the Sisterhood, where she does not belong, but this is the only choice she can make for herself.

Travis is then hurt, barely alive, so he stays with the Sisters until he heals. Mary goes to his bedside each night, and her love for him intensifies. Even better, Travis believes in the ocean and the world Mary longs for. He feels it too. When he heals, there is more rejection for Mary when Travis is not the one to come back and claim her, but his brother Harry.
The story continues as the Unconsecrated breach the fence, their village is all taken by the undead, and Mary is forced down the forest path with Harry, Travis, her best friend Cass, a young boy, Jacob, and her brother and his wife. The more rejection the reader feels in Mary's heart, the more she retaliates. Her personality is fierce, unflinching, and this is what makes her a strong heroine.

However,  finally Mary gets her wish. She and Travis are trapped together, while the others are safe on the platforms of another village. Although trapped, and Travis's leg makes it impossible for him to follow quickly, Mary and Travis are together in a house where they can be alone. This is what she wanted; she wanted him to choose her, yet there is something missing. The ocean, her escape, is always on her mind. Maybe it's just me, but I can't help but think why can't he be enough? Was the rejection he caused her too much? Or was he just never going to be enough for her? At the beginning she longed for him, waiting for him, saw a life with him; yet she finally gets that chance and it's lost on her ultimate goal.
Even at the end of the story (be advised this is a spoiler)- she loses everything. Travis is dead, Harry/Cass/ and Jacob have taken a separate path, and her brother also falls to her dreams of the ocean. In the end she makes it, but at what cost?

I think this frustrated me the most about Mary because it was difficult to understand her reasoning. Was the constant rejection the reason for her desire to push away? Travis and Harry both had such intense loves for her, and I understand her holding back with Harry, but she had Travis- this was what she wanted. But even in the end Travis asked "Would you ever give up the ocean for me?" It's almost like he knew he would never be enough. 
Again, I have not revisited the other two novels, but I found Mary's constant hope and desire for something better frustrating. Maybe it's because of the three main characters, I can't really connect emotionally to Mary's story. Sure she went through stages of rejection, but when things began to work her way, she still could not see that as enough. She put people in danger, but worst of all, it seems she broke a few people's hearts because they knew she had an untamed soul that love and family could not calm. Maybe that frustrated me more; knowing that she could have a happy life where she could have everything she wanted, but it was never going to be enough to make her fully happy.
In the end, I fell back in love with the series and find myself going head first into the post apocalyptic world Ryan has created. This is one of the best series I have come across- her writing is lyrical and weaves a fantastic tale, but the story itself provides raw emotion, survival, and love that all three females are so desperate to find.

Never Forget the Potential One Solitary Pawn Has to Change The Entire Game

Kitty Doe's fate lies in the hands of the test. In this futuristic world, young men and women at 16 take a test to determine their intelligence. Once the results are found, these children have their marks engraved on the back of their necks. A mark of a IV or V prove a normal life with acceptable jobs, VI or above show great intelligence and therefore receive jobs that are more aligned with the Prime Minister and the high ranked family of Harts.

However, marks of III or lower only lead to meaningless work that no one wishes to complete. Often times in order to make enough money, these people sell themselves to brothels in hopes of a more enriching life.
Then there are those people who disobey and are taken into Elsewhere, which is just as mysterious as it sounds. No one knows what is beyond Elsewhere, but everyone knows this is no place to travel.

Kitty's test results land her a III. The government wishes to send her to Denver to complete her work of sweeping sewers, but Kitty's one choice this night changes the course of events. Her attempts to sell herself at a brothel land her a proposition from the Prime Minister himself: He will change her marking to a VII, she just has to leave her life behind. When she agrees, Kitty does not realize what this VII could mean, or what dangers it presents.
In Aimee Carter's Pawn, Kitty finds herself masked, a plastic surgery procedure where the individual is transformed into another person. In Kitty's case, Lila Hart; the Prime Minister's niece and one of the most powerful people in the world.
Kitty soon realizes this VII meant changing her identity, her world, and becoming Lila, who was killed because her actions were not well liked by the Prime Minister. She begins to uncover secrets, shocking revelations, and she realizes the Harts have no intention to let her go. But she fears for Benji, the boyfriend she left behind. How will she ever be able to make it back to him and explain this? But what scares her the most; the Hart family have all sorts of different agendas. The day Kitty does not serve her purpose, not only will they kill Benji, but what is to stop them from killing her?

I picked this novel up out of curiosity. The idea of marking children for their potential jobs is one that has been seen before, however the government involvement has dark plans. The dark plans aren't for their citizens...it seems to be a family affair. Each one is against the other, blackmail is common, and it is never clear whose side anyone is on. Knox, Lila's real life fiance, and Greyson, Lila's cousin, seem to be the only two who are 100% truthful. Kitty is no fool, but with each chapter and each new plan, it begins to get harder and harder for her to fight for her control. She is Lila, and it seems as though her hope in ever finding a life with Benji where they can be free is far from her grasp.

I really liked this concept, the family dynamic was very interesting, and the ending does come as a shock. It was so incredible how these people had no regard for human life. The amount of "accidents" and blatant killings was disgusting. But it proved to show there is a rebellion trying to squeeze through. And despite her troubles, Kitty does not plan to sit back and let anyone tell her what to do.
Overall great book, and seems like it will be a great trilogy.

Ironically, Since the Attacks, The Sunsets Have Been Glorious

Six weeks ago, the angels took over the earth. They aren't even the fallen... these are regular "heavenly" angels. Since the apocalypse, the humans have been scavenging. Everything is a wasteland, and everyone was affected by this travesty. Penryn, her schizophrenic mother, and her wheelchair bound sister find themselves in the middle of a fight where an angel's wings are cut off, and Paige, her sister, is captured.

Penryn then makes it her mission to find these angels, rescue her sister, and maybe get some revenge. However, this clipped angel could be her only clue to getting to her end goal. Once the angel, Raffe, heals enough to move forward, Penryn finds herself on a journey where she must rely on her enemy in order to reach her sister. And Raffe must trust Penryn's guidance and strength in order to find a way to get his wings back. Although the two are an unlikely pair, both must be able to get past their pride, anger, and weaknesses to use each other. How will it be possible to surmount these obstacles when both of their worlds are so incredibly different?

The first book in the series, Angelfall by Susan Ee, focuses on a post apocalyptic world where it's not zombies but angels that cause destruction and death. The reader is immediately introduced to Penryn's strength. With her mother's illness and her sister's disability, she has been the mother like figure, the anchor, and the only constant. She is quick witted, and she is able to fight her way out of most obstacles she does face.
Raffe, on the other hand, is a mystery, which is what he is meant to be. He's strong, sexy, but broken without his wings. Penryn tries to keep him under her thumb, however you can see times of weakness. She feels sorry for him, and readers do too. But he has such a hard exterior, that you aren't sure what to think. I mean at times he is a jerk! However, there are often signs of a soft heart.

I liked this novel because it shows a different post apocalyptic world where our saving grace is now destroying the earth. As the story goes on, there are battles, dark findings, and a suggestion of deeper feelings between Penryn and Raffe. The angels are truly demonic and create a new world of fear and evil, which makes readers wonder what side is "good", and what exactly is this war meant for.
Something to keep in mind: the narrator isn't even MOVING in the last few chapters. She is paralyzed and seeing all the events happening, yet the intensity of the scene really does keep readers engaged. I mean you have to be skilled if your narrator can just be laying there while a huge battle is happening. Pretty intense.
Very neat concept. I heard the second one takes a few chapters to truly get into, but this is always true with the second in the series. Worth a read if you are looking for a dystopia where it's not a zombie, vampire, or government controlled world, and no love triangle.
 Definitely a refreshing "re-look" at angels...especially after the disaster that was Hush Hush. Do not even get me started. At least this one reintroduces the angel story with a STRONG heroine, actual fighting and disturbing concepts, and next to no underlying love interests. Thank goodness for that.

We Can Be Mended. We Mend Each Other

I just finished the Divergent series by Veronica Roth. I am processing the ending, the events, and the trilogy as a whole.

As I expected...Roth did not disappoint. In this novel the reader sees outside of the fence, the new "government" that controls all the cities and their living situation. They watch them, they created the factions and their forms of living, and if they think the city is doomed- they can erase and begin again. This whole concept drove me nuts throughout the novel. It completely makes sense- yet it's completely messed up. They choose not to protect the cities, just replace their memories and move on. The fact that you can also see such parallels to the government we trust is uncanny. I think that is what drew me into this trilogy- the corruption of the government. People explained "damaged genes" were the reason for the destruction, yet there is always going to be a group who want to overthrow what is clearly unjust. The idea behind people with the "pure genes' and how they were somehow superior to the rest of the population was interesting, yet disgusting. It's easy to explain away the reason for war when you have a convenient scape goat.

Roth gives Tobias, Four, a voice, and the story comes to a close with a lot of sorrow, death, and destruction, but it shows the fight, the struggle, and the bravery. Love is a common theme, not just the love between Tobias and Tris. Love between friends, family, and companions is.

I have come to the conclusion that I like this series a little better than The Hunger Games. Roth pushes the boundaries, and she creates a whole conspiracy behind what the main characters see as their world. She was not afraid to go against what readers would expect, or like, and it seemed that she took more of a risk with the complete ending. I think it is also always great to add a new character's point of view to the story. Collins kind of stifled herself by only using Katniss, and using her as the anchor for two male characters because it provides readers with a convenient love triangle that can be a sub plot. However, Roth managed to bring in the emotion of two characters- both broken, dealing with their own grief, but their different intentions and views to drive them both together. And the love and passion between them was not the center point- Tris and Tobias have problems within themselves, but they belong together because they each are the missing piece.

The last fifty pages were packed with so much emotion and energy- I was literally between crying and being unable to breath. This series will stick with me, and I am really interested to see what they do with the movies. Hopefully they won't disappoint. Although I was late to the party, Divergent will forever be a favorite journey I would like to revisit.

GET ON BOARD WITH THIS TRILOGY!!!

It Is Impossible To Erase My Choices. Especially These

I read the second in the Divergent series, Insurgent by Veronica Roth, in three days. I am not some crazy reading machine, I promise. This series is just breathtaking. I am in middle of the third as we speak and sometimes it is impossible to put down.

The second novel relays a lot of moving around. Tris and Tobias discover the truth about the government and the reason for Erudite's hostile attempt to kill all the Divergents. The stakes get higher when Tris needs to trust the one person she hates most in order to uncover the truth. There is betrayal from unexpected sources, forgiveness, recovery, and as always survival.

Allegiant is the last in the series. After the truth is uncovered, some will go to great lengths to keep it the same, but there are a few who seek answers- not just the answers provided. The journey takes readers to familiar ground, but for Tris and the Allegiant group, it is hard to swallow the lies they were once fed, and it's even harder to adapt in a world where everything has changed.

The idea behind this novel gives more insight into the "corrupt" government, and I have to be honest the ending to the second book blew my mind. I didn't see it coming, but it makes complete sense. It breaks the mold of the typical dystopian society books because it gives the readers a sense of realism.
Tris is a great heroine- she gains strength, bravery, and most of all she starts to come into her own. And as a nice little *uncontrollable girl giggle* surprise, Tobias becomes a narrator in the 3rd book. Readers see past his stoic front and are introduced to an emotion filled character with more than just sexy tattoos. Tobias is a broken character who, like Tris, needs to begin to realize who they are without a label.
The factions have separated and defined people for so long, but losing that sense of comfort creates new feelings and strengthened senses of loss, betrayal, and fear.

I am obsessed. Great reads, and, although I have not finished the ending, I can guarantee this ending will not disappoint. I mean- you can't have a huge build up and then just let us down, right....RIGHT!?

I Suppose Now, I Must Become More Than Either

I admit, I was late to the party on this one. Divergent by Veronica Roth was the next craze after The Hunger Games, and I did read a chapter before leaving it. Seriously- why does that always happen? I ended up seeing the movie first, too...MAJOR faux pas! It's like I fell asleep at the wheel for a second. But not to worry, I am back on track. I gave myself a stern talking to because this book should not have taken me this long to figure out.

Tris is an a futuristic society that is divided into five factions. These factions were created to maintain balance and give everyone a place and a set job in order to keep the peace and harmony. Once sixteen, all teenagers are given a test to determine what faction best suits them, then they can choose. Tris, born Abnegation (the selfless faction), is unsure of her future. But once her tests are inconclusive- her confusion is even more profound. These results, however prove that she is more than "normal"; she is divergent. Her and her brother, Caleb, both choose out of Abnegation, which stirs up the pot for the government officials in this faction.

Dauntless, the protector faction, sends Tris through training in fighting, facing fears, and bravery. However, the more Tris improves her rank, the more she begins to feel in danger because of her inconclusive tests results. She is warned by those who know about her this label is a curse and can prove to be her end. As the months go by, Tris begins to discover hidden plots by one of the factions to overthrow the government. She also begins to feel more at ease in her new home- especially once her trainer, Four, begins to enter her thoughts. Whatever happiness she finds, she is still drawn to her former faction, considering they are in such trouble now. But once the rebellion begins to break out, Tris realizes that her "divergent" status may be the only thing that can save them all.
I went to the book store last weekend because I was sad. Yes, book stores make me happy, judge me. So I bought Divergent and began reading. I finished the book in four days. I cannot express how incredible this book is. The book focuses on one faction's leader beginning a spark of rebellion. Tris, and the others labeled "Divergent" don't realize how much power they truly have in this war. You can see Tris becoming a strong woman throughout the training process, and she makes a lot of decisions readers are on board with.

The idea of the factions is much like the districts in The Hunger Games. But each one has their own goal to protect the balance. The romance, the training, and the power are all connected so well in this world, that it's impossible to read this book and not want to immediately finish the rest of the story.
I think readers can also relate to this dystopic society more than Katniss Everdeen's story, which is so not a popular statement. Both stories are so similar, but you can see the differences between each society, and you can see each of the heroines with difficult decisions in the end. Katniss is more emotionless; Tris has so much emotion, so it's easier to relate.
AND the movie wasn't so bad! I thought it worked really well along side the novel- plus holy crap can we just talk about Four for a second? The good looking bad boy? I mean DEFINITELY an upgrade from Peeta. And I am completely Team Peeta!

Worth it. Read it. End of story. 

I Had Every Intention Of Surviving. I Wasn't Going Out Of The World Like This

Tess's journey has come to a close in the last in the Lost Souls trilogy: Creators by Tiffany Truitt.  Throughout the three novels, the reader is introduced to a broken heroine named Tess.
She lives in a futuristic world where the Naturals are forced into ghettos, manual labor, and disregarded as human beings. Not only does growing up in these communities make it hard to exist, women are also unable to give birth. Women are feared- therefore their ability to live after giving birth was taken away. The Creators, or the government, punish the Naturals and force them to serve the Chosen Ones, the creation of the ideal "race".
Tess falls in love with the Chosen One, James, but each day for them is a struggle. Between being forced to separate, almost being killed, being neglected, and then suddenly finding herself thrown into a rebellion, Tess wants nothing more than to see James and start a life. Especially because she discovered she is one of a rare breed that can give birth without dying.

The rebellion has begun, and Tess is finally reunited with her father; however things don't result in such a happy reunion. Her father strives to kill, destroy, and take over the Creators, but he isn't concerned who he may lose along the way. Meanwhile, Tess finds herself struggling to stay strong for her pregnant sister, Louisa.
As the days turn into weeks, and James begin to fade away, Tess finds herself hoping and wanting this new world the rebellion promises. But is the fire for rebellion more strong than her deep love for James and freedom?
This was a really great series. It's a little unknown, which is why I am the only one who edited it on shelfari. However, it is one that truly needs more attention. You can see commonalities to The Hunger Games and other series where the government has complete control. But, Truitt shows a deeper parallel to our world's past history. Forcing people to live in poverty, trying to control how they live, and when they get out of order- enforcing punishment that forces them to serve the higher class. It was almost shocking how similar our two worlds were.
I fell in love with Tess's character because as a reader, you can see her pain. She is broken, with nothing left than to hope for a better future. James is her hope and the only piece that keeps her going.All around her Tess is surronded by people who would choose to fight, who have so much hate that it's hard to her to see the light.  The entire series showed her strength, her power, and her true desire; even if it wasn't the same among her companions.
This series was a set of great books that show although there is so much hate in the world, there are those who choose peace, love, and isolation. Tess discovers her own strength, at the same time, she fights for her freedom. Even if her freedom isn't the same as the rebellion, it's a choice she is willing to make for her.
In case you need more convincing- I cried during the last chapter of this one. Yea, I know! It was an ending no one could have predicted, but one that brings hope, and it shows strength. Each character found the path that best represented them- and overall, it was a journey worth taking.

My Death Would Not Be Another Beginning

JUST finished Infinite by Jodi Meadows, the final book in the Newsoul trilogy. I am speechless, sad that it's over, and just so overwhelmed with the amount this book delievered.

I am, as we speak, eating my words regarding book two. The thing about this series is there is so much to digest that just picking up the novel and "rolling with it" will not be enough. You have to devote some time and thought to the whole aspect these novels are expressing. And, as with most cases in a trilogy, the 2nd one had a lot of dull points that lead up to the end of the action. So, ignore the whole "it takes a while" thing. Book Three is pure gold.

Ana is one in world where everyone is reincarnated- she discovers the truth about the God-Like figure, Janan- and now she leads the brigade to try to prevent Janan from rising. This journey involves a lot of emotion for Ana; new, real, and changes within herself. Her strength and courage really do cause the reader to rally around her, and even when all seems lost, you know she won't go down without a fight.

The love between Sam and Ana is so real- you can feel the surge of passion. I did cry, I felt pain for Ana and the decisions she was forced to make, but I never once tired of this journey. It was truly a story of surviving the unknown, courage to overcome the evil, and discovering in yourself that perhaps being the only one can be the best opportunity to succeed.

Ana is presenting these ideas of rebellion to a world of people who are insulted, intrigued, and afraid. Fear is the driving force for a lot of action, but overcoming that fear and breaking the cycle of the "cult" created is where the beauty truly comes in. Being the one to stand up for something takes on a whole new meaning- and Ana's end goal comes with knowing there is never a chance for her to be reincarnated like the rest. However, she knows that even if she dies- her journey should and will not be in vain.

 I fell in love with this series, this book....Sam. ;) The idea is new and fresh, plus there are lots of fantasy elements: dragons, centaurs, slyph (which end up being the lost souls who disobeyed Janan). I would relive this journey, and I know I would still feel the same emotions. This book showed the bravery of one person who chose to step up and fight the unknown, and that is such a powerful message. Read it, end of story. It is not a quick read by any means, but the theme and the overall emotion that you can walk away with is so worth the time.

Neither of Us Were Alone. Asunder

Ana is a new soul- one who is not reincarnated after death. She is the only new soul in the community and is not fully welcomed, even after saving many from the tragedy that was Temple Dark: many were killed never to be reincarnated all thanks to their once beloved God-like figure- Janan.
After some time away- Ana has pieced together the few notes, diary entries, and theories she has taken from the tragedy. Many of the pieces are still unclear, but Ana has discovered things, including how to deal with the Sylph- ghostlike creatures that burn. Ana chooses to hide these elements between her and Sam; no one else would understand, and she wants to make sure she has evidence on how to make sure this tragedy will never occur again.
Upon returning to the city of Heart, Ana faces a new challenge- more new souls are being born. She is not alone in this fight, although that's exactly what it turns out to be. Most of the city is outraged by this new "take over"; and some are even resorting to violence.
Ana realizes that she must try to make the city understand and protect the new-souls- but even with her friends and Sam's help, it appears as if this battle is far from over. In reality, you can't make people understand, and those who are against her "kind" seem to disregard the want and need for a change.

Asunder by Jodi Meadows is the sequel to Incarnate. Normally the second books in the series are always somewhat boring because they have to keep the story going. However, once the novel got started, I was able to stay active in this story without feeling as though this was just a bridge to a greater end. Similar to the first one, it was difficult for me to get into this novel because the first few chapters are almost tedious. But, I promised myself I would finish this series because the idea is truly too interesting and creative to throw away. After chapter 4, it gets quicker paced, so despite the unwritten rule to ditch the book after a chapter- WAIT until chapter 5.
Meadows creates complicated characters in an intricate world. Sam has been reincarnated for centuries- yet he has fallen in love with Ana, which is a conflict of interest. He is over 500 years old, yet she is just an 18 year old child; any kind of relationship or feelings seem "inappropriate", but Sam's heart and his good nature seem to overshadow this idea. Ana is a tragic hero in a lot of senses- she is not the whiny teenage brat with these typical ideas because she has suffered greatly throughout her childhood. You do see some emotions that are very natural of an eighteen year old, but Ana is strong. Her emotional stability gathers other individuals and gives strength to those people who seem lost and alone.

The city once worshiped Janan-who is their God like figure. Some still believe, others have left that behind years ago. But the more you find out about this city and this whole community- you see it began as almost a cult following. Ana begins to unravel the secrets everyone else seems to forget- and you as a reader realize that this community isn't just about being afraid of the new souls- it's about power, control, and making sure change does not occur. I can see a huge parallel to a lot of discrimination in our world, and the cult-like community really does bring a whole new aspect to this world Ana lives in.
 Meadows has a beautiful way of writing so that everything weaves together, and she creates a new twist on the regular dystopian societies. I am on my way to get the third book because this series is too good to not finish; and I figure with the story fresh in my mind- it'll be easier to follow. This novel was a step up from the first one- AND it really shows the differences between love and fear.

Now, We All Walk In The Sun

Dawn and Victor's fight for the city has not ended. Sin's wrath has left Dawn with answers she cannot understand and questions she cannot even begin to ask. Upon escaping Sin, Michael and her find themselves in a town where vampire and humans co-exist, but they protect each other; they need each other to survive. Is there a possibility that this can be a way of live for the future?
Her return home was short lived as Dawn realizes she must go with Victor to face the Old Family vampires. She must reveal Sin's plans for expanding his empire of "Chosen", infected vampires, and she must help Victor convince the rest of the families that the time for action is now. They have to take out Sin's plans for reproduction, and the Old Family vampires must find a way to attempt to bring order back to the scared, desolate world Sin has created. But will Dawn be able to understand and embrace this secret she has learned about herself and her family? Could this secret help protect

Denver, and, in the end, can this secret create a bond between two worlds?

After Daybreak by J.A London is the last in the Darkness Before Dawn trilogy. This novel is all about Dawn embracing her heritage and understanding how this gift could serve the city she once stood to protect. Just like with the others, the vampire aspect appears so realistic, that the reader almost feels there is a possibility this outbreak and fear could exist.
Dawn's feelings for Victor are stronger, and after expressing the truth of her heritage, it appears she can be of more help to the ultimate cause. And, with Sin's goals and followers rising, there is no choice but to go forward in hopes that this plan will bring a stop to the chaos.

The ending was nice, but I really feel like the whole "boss battle" at the end was too quick. The build up to finding Sin was great, but the ending just happened a little too fast for me. And, call me a cynic, but I was expecting at least ONE of the good guys to die. We know it can't be Victor because the love between Dawn and him is the piece that will create a better life for the citizens, but no one? Really? I went into the last chapter bracing myself for who would bite the dust because sometimes it is really hard to part with certain characters. It was a tad disappointing when I read to the end and not one person was mourned.
What I really DID like about the book was the overall concept, and Dawn discovers something about her family that is a really interesting twist. It reminded me a little of True Blood at first, but it was something that ended up being an important piece to the puzzle. And there were points in the book when she did perform like a strong female lead, which by now you know I am a sucker for.
The overall idea behind the book is a good one. It's a different twist on a vampire concept, and it's one that works. Dawn isn't a bratty female character, and she does strengthen as the trilogy progresses. Readers have to go into this trilogy expecting to just read and be entertained. There are no underlying symbols and there is no reason to make an assumption that this book will shake up your world. It is a young adult dystopia with a female lead who eventually comes into her own by the end. It was entertaining, and I did read the series fairly quickly because of that. Yes, there were things I was disappointed with, but the trilogy as a whole worked and served the purpose it was intended to serve.

No Where Left to Hide

Dawn Montgomery has lost every inch of safety she and the city of Denver believe they have. Once Sin, the Daywalker, showed the city that Vampires can now walk in the daylight, no one seems safe.
To make matters worse, Dawn has lost her title as the city delegate. Her relationship with Victor puts him and her at risk in this position, but also there was the whole blood transfer; Victor took Dawn's blood so he could survive, leaving her all but drained.
Ever since Dawn left the hospital, she's been having weird dreams about a vampire symbol. Desperately seeking answers, no one, not even the Old Family vampires seems to know what this means. She's also been having dreams with Victor: they are just dreams, but it seems so real.

To make matters even more crazy, Dawn has been sent to California on the Night train to track the Thirst that is so vast in the vampire population. On her journey, she meets Ian, famous vampire hunter who, along with her Nightwatchmen and ex boyfriend, Michael, have vowed to keep her safe. What Dawn discovers on this trip is the both the most amazing, yet horrifying conclusion. No one expected the Thirst and the Daywalkers to be a threat, but now there really is no where to hide.

Blood-Kissed Sky by J.A London is the second in the Darkness Before Dawn trilogy. Like the first, the story is an interesting take on a dystopic society where vampires and humans coexist. In the first novel, Dawn has the power of the delegate where she speaks to the Vampire lord. However, things have changed. Victor overthrew his father, Dawn discovered her brother was infected with the Thirst, and Sin is a new breed of vampire that can risk the safety and security the world had tried so long to rebuild.
As I said with the first one, very different from the whole romantic, teen drama. The plot holes, however, do continue a bit. There are certain areas where you as a reader go, "Really? How does that work", but it is a good overall story.
Like the first one, the ending was unexpected, yet it made sense.
I have to say this novel did make me feel more indifferent towards Victor. Yea, I get that he's the new overlord of his family, but something seems off. He actually is only really present in this book a handful of times, so I really think London did a great job of showing not too much romance, but just enough to remind the reader it exists. The concept is nice and different, so when the end of the book came, I realized this was not the type of book I could simply put down and not continue it. Like a handful in the past...
It's a quick read, an easy read, but the concept is definitely enough to keep an interest. Sure, you are annoyed with the main character at times, but she has proven she can manage to think for herself and be strong when the situation requires.
Also, the covers and titles are so intriguing. I definitely feel like London overshadows his few moments of plot holes once you see the title. Very clever, very pretty.

Only Sunlight Can Save Us

In a distant future, Vampires roam the United States and coexist. The war has ended between both species, but a wall separates the potential danger. Even though both sides have a mutual agreement on blood supply, less humans want to donate, so more vampires become desperate to feed. Dawn's parents were the official delegates for Lord Valentine, and they were killed doing a standard visit. As a result, Dawn was named the youngest, new delegate. Visits to Valentine Manor are typical and expected from her job description, but that doesn't mean she is unable to handle the pressure.
Her last night with no worries and partying turns into an almost fatal run in with vampires, until Victor saves her and her best friend, Tegan. Dawn never expects to see him again, let alone find out he is Valentine's son.

Desperately trying to increase the blood supply, Dawn is pressed for time, but unwilling to be intimidated by an old family Vamp...or his son. As time goes on, Victor begins to show a softer side; one that Dawn never expected from a vampire. Now, her thoughts are filled with Victor, her soon to be Night Watchmen boyfriend, Michael, and her recent stalker (who may just be one of Valentine's lackeys willing to strike at any time).
The world continues to spin out of control when her mentor is attacked, Victor expressed his need to over throw his father, and even though Tegan seems happy with the new guy, Sin, there is definitely something different about him. Can Dawn handle the pressure, and will she give in to what her heart's ultimate desire is?

Darkness Before Dawn by J.A London begins with a typical Vampire vs Humans story line. Yes, it has a little True Blood vibe to it. To be honest, I wanted to read it so bad because Barnes and Nobles did not have it in stock, and the cover to the third one, which WAS in stock, was pretty and interesting. The minute I started reading I went in neutral; not knowing what to expect. However, it is QUITE different from Twilight, so please don't let the vampire/human thing scare you off.
The characters are very one dimension; there isn't much to them other than typical high school issues. Dawn is a strong female character, but only because the job forced her to be. She wants to prove she is a force to be reckoned with, but readers get a little confused when they realize...this 18 year old is the only communication between the Vampire race and the humans? It seems odd and even odder that the government trusts a teenager in charge of such affairs.
Get past the immediate confusing plot holes, and it reads just like a typical teen drama. Dawn has the good looking, protective boyfriend, her best friend is boy obsessed, and aside from the drama in school, all teenagers are armed with stakes and some background in self-defense. Victor shows up, and he is just different; not in a sparkle sparkle kind of way. He rescues the girls from a vampire attack, but suddenly Dawn discovers he is one. Victor's heart is gentle, and he begins to show Dawn the other parts of the city she is not so aware of. He shows her a different side to the vampire race and explains to her why he must dethrone his father, so her hate for the race begins to dissolve. 
As much as I seem off about this book, I did, actually, enjoy it. The plot was not so romance related to be nauseating, and the end of the book did actually come as a surprise to me. The more the story continued, I was siding with Victor and wanting for the two worlds to reunite and for everyone to live in harmony. Fat chance, as with all "too good to be true" moments, but it was a good thought.
It is a trilogy, so I grabbed the second one to continue to story. The author did a nice job of making me care because the amount of plot holes in the beginning may have been enough to deter a lot of people.
Don't expect too much from it, but it's a good read. It's quick, a little different, and far from the whole sparkle vampire, sexy werewolf, and desperate, uninteresting main heroine.

There Are Chords in the Hearts of the Most Reckless Which Cannot be Touched...

Araby's journey has only just begun. Her father created the masks to keep the contagion out, but he also was responsible for releasing the Red Death, Will, the boy who made her feel again, betrayed her, her mother has been kidnapped by the Prince, and her best friend, April, is dying. But, Araby has discovered this life is worth living, as long as there is something to fight for.
On their journey back to the city, Araby, Elliot, and Will begin searching for her father in hopes that he can reverse the contagion for April and the city. Throughout their journey, Elliot begins to put together troops of his own in order to overthrow the Prince and save the city. Though these boys have both left scars on her heart, Araby is drawn to them both in such different ways.
Their journey brings them through tunnels filled with death, streets where contagion, the Red Death, and murders lurk, and finally, to a masquerade ball where Araby must make a decision that could result in a horrible death. Throughout the journey, Araby uses her anger, her bravery, and the love for her family to push forward, but is she ready to unleash something inside herself that could distort the image she's grown used to for so long?

Dance of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin is the sequel to Masque of the Red Death. This novel, much like the first, did not leave readers with hopes of a better story. This was the better story. Picking up where Griffin left off, we are reunited with Araby, our heroine. These two novels show a drastic change in the main character: In Masque..., Araby needs to find a reason to breath, but in Dance..., she is determined to fight the disease and the Prince.
The reader can truly see a character who has hit rock bottom, but her climb to the top is the reason we read on. She has taken herself from a character who was continually drugged at the Debauchery Club in order to forget her past, to a female lead who doesn't need the boys to save her. And who doesn't like that?
Griffin's writing is the other part of the story that is just so delicious. Each word, each sentence, is so carefully constructed, and the writing just adds to the depth of the story. The story doesn't just revolve around the Araby, Elliot, Will love triangle; the story focuses on a time where people are dying from the contagion and the Red Death and no one has the power to stop it, but it will be these three that are forced to work together in order to bring the city back to life. Elliot's goal: to overthrow the Prince so he can pay for his crimes, but this means forming an army of men who would be willing to go against the city's control. Araby's mission: to find her father so he can reverse the contagion for her friend, but also to find her mother and bring her home safe. And Will, he's along to provide assistance to both with his array of skills, but also, he wants to keep Araby safe.

What I enjoyed the most was Araby's development. Although some things were a little too convenient, Araby's strength was not one of them. I could feel her turmoil, her anxiety, and her hesitation with certain tasks. She didn't become a strong heroine overnight, but each chapter brings her closer to finding how strong she truly is. And, because of her past, readers have an easier time relating to her emotions.

There were slow points in the story, there were times when it was a little too confusing, and there were times when certain tasks tied together a little too well. However, you read this story for the characters and for the overall theme, which is survival. I favorited this series on my shelfari because it is something I would return to again. This is one of those great dystopian societies where the decisions people make can be just as ugly as the disease itself.

Death Was Expected. There Were No Exceptions

After a devastating World War 4, life appears to be at a stand still. Women are no longer able to give life, and death is always close by. The Council of Creators has determined that instead of making life, they will create it. They have created a master "race" of Chosen Ones; beautiful, strong, and deadly to all.
Tess and her family are the last of the Naturals, those who were naturally born and not created. When her older sister dies during childbirth, Tess is forced to spend ten years at Templeton, being a unpaid maid for the Chosen Ones to pay for her sister's disobedience. Tess is cold, alone, and unwilling to succumb to any help. She then meets James, a Chosen One who loves music, reading, and has a kindness in his soul that others do not share. Their attraction to each other is immediate, but it doesn't take away the danger and intensity it could lead them too.
As her time at Templeton continues, Tess discovers that rebellion is brewing, but not against the Chosen Ones; against the Council. She encounters situations that make her challenge her once black and white views. Slowly, she finds out that rebellion may be in her blood, and also she may carry something that everyone thought was lost. But, will she be able to help her people if it means giving up this one chance at happiness?

It is no surprise that dystopian societies are my forte. I actually bought this book for my kindle last year when it came out, but failed to return to it until last week. I am so glad I did. The Chosen Ones by Tiffany Truitt takes us to a future where all seems lost. Life can no longer be made, so the Council has decided to create a superior "race" to keep watch over the Naturals. The idea of the Council is so hauntingly real, and I think that's what really kept me craving more. There are the rules: Naturals all bunk together in horribly crowded living conditions, while the Chosen Ones have their own boarding house that provides them with food, education, and every luxury the Naturals are prevented from having. If a Natural is disobedient and deserves to be punished, they will be branded with marks on their neck signifying how "lucky" they are to receive 3 stikes.
Tess is so cold. After her sister's death, she is unable to forgive her brother in law, unable to get close to any of her remaining family members, and just closes herself off from the world. I found her character was so broken, and in desperate need of affection, but she refused it. She is not a typical heroine, and she is by no means "liked" by any of the other characters. As a reader, I felt bad for the characters she was rejecting because I knew how badly she need some kind of positive emotion in her life. She meets James, but she does everything in her power to fight the emotions she feels. She is so set on following the Council's rules that she ignores the fact that this boy is different than the other Chosen Ones; she still can't trust him.
Throughout the book I found myself highlighting a lot of the lines because there were so beautiful and telling about the character. The more I read, the more I wanted because I could see the uncertainty within Tess. She wanted to learn more, she wanted to prove herself, and you can tell something is stirring.
This book was a great read. I finished it within a week because I just couldn't stay away from it for too long. After I finished it, I immediately bought the second one in the series because I need to keep the story going.
People may be skeptical about the book because Tess's character can be seen as an ungrateful brat, but I truly believe inside she's an empty shell. James teaches her to be human, to feel something again, and I think that is the amazing thing. If you're into the dystopian society scene, this one is worth checking out!

Maybe Hope isn't the Most Dangerous Thing...Maybe Love is Worse

After being married off to Linden with two sister wives and experiencing the loss of her family, Rhine finally escapes her father in law's grasp, only to be pulled back in. It seems all of Rhine's journey has been for naught, until she realizes her twin brother, Rowan, is alive and getting much unwanted publicity. Her strength and determination return and, though against her father in law's will, she sets out to find her brother, and the boy she left behind.
Although heartbroken once before because of her absence, Linden agrees to send Rhine to stay with his uncle to get her strength up, then she will be off to search for Rowan and Gabriel alone. However, the trip doesn't leave Rhine so alone. Cecily, her once sister wife, Linden, and baby Bowen accompany her to Uncle Reed's, unsure of what they'll experience.
Reed seems odd, but the more Rhine stays, the more she discovers about this man. He has the ability to make things grow, whereas his brother, Vaughn does anything to prod, poke, and ultimately destroy. Throughout their journey, each of the character's are faced with despair, hardships, and courage. Trying to outrun Vaughn, while holding onto the only hope they all have, which is each other, and the determination to survive.
Is it possible, after all Rhine's been through, to completely leave the mansion, the ex husband, and the life she knew for a year behind in order to search after a brother and boy who could all be but forgotten and lost?

Sever by Lauren DeStefano is absolutely the best end to this trilogy. Since I first picked up Wither when she first began the series, these books have held onto my heart and have not let go. The writing, you can tell, is so carefully done. Each idea, each sentence, each word is so well done. That was part of the fun of reading this.
Even better: the covers of all these books include so many different objects, but all of them relate to this story. All of these items contribute somehow to the journey, and they affect the story's theme. It is just attention to detail that really makes this a thoughtful piece as well as an entertaining one.
The other amazing part is the story itself. It is truly amazing how the idea of a disease taking the young 21 and 25 year olds can create such a dystopic society that is so enchanting and hauntingly real. Life is a race against time; a race to succeed and maybe have a shot to find this cure. What Rhine discovers about Vaughn, her parents, and her brother is truly remarkable, and it completely changes the reader's opinion of all these characters.
The really amazing thing about DeStefano is that she manages to incorporate all the character's into Rhine's world AND make them relevant. Cecily's character develops in a way where readers actually enjoy her wild emotions. Linden is determining whether he should disobey his father for the first time, or stay with what he has always considered safe. Even Vaughn becomes more than a monster, and maybe appears to be the only one who can really change the world.
I fell in love with all the characters, and towards the end it was really hard to to determine who I should "root" for. Rhine grew tremendously throughout the trilogy, and it was a journey that all readers will be happy to take with her.
Although there was a great deal of tragedy and sadness, I feel like the end was appropriate and not at all expected. All characters were able to find their place, even those who have been dead and buried. Because even the dead play a role...

Such an amazing trilogy, and it is DEFINITELY a must read!

Take Down The Walls

Lena has been on the run with her group. They are outrunning the resistance, surviving the Scavengers, and most of all trying to just live. In Lena's world, Love is the Disease. So many have been cured, but after the death of the governor of Portland, the world has broken out into an all out war. Her group and her have been searching for safety, praying for a chance to overcome the war and somehow come out on the other side. She has Julian, whom she saved from  the resistance, but things are more complicated now that Alex has joined her pack. Alex, who showed her the way of the uncured, Alex, who supposedly gave his life for her to escape, Alex...her first and true love. The book follows Lena and her group across the country through everything. The main goal, to return to Waterbury where there should be a group waiting for them with more people to create more of an impact. When plans change, Portland is where they decide to have their final stand off with the government, Lena's old home. The entire time she battles within herself...Is Alex gone and dead to her like he says, can Julian ever fill that void, will they all survive?
On the other side, Lena's old best friend, Hana as been cured. She lives a life anyone would want...she will soon be matched to the governor's son, Fred. But something isn't sitting right. She constantly things of Lena, her family, and the mess on the other side if town where all the uncured reside. Fred's previous wife is no where to track down, which makes the journey even more uneasy. The more Hana discovers about her husband to be, his plans for the town, and everything going on in this world, she starts to realize that survival is not only for the Wild, it is for the here and now.

Requiem by Lauren Oliver  is the final book in the series and represents a dystopic society where love is a disease and needs to be cured. However, the whole concepts spirals deeper as the books go on. Book one focuses on the outbreak: Love. Book two takes the reader into battle. You see the government trying to control this outbreak of uncured, throwing them to different parts of the city, opening fire without cause. Lena's strength gets her out of her town and forces her to reestablish herself as a new member of the Wild. Broken hearted, she fights, and throughout the journey discovers how the government is taking control of the issue.
I know a lot of my friends read book one and were turned off because it was too much love. Books 2 and 3 do not reflect her love interests, but the war. Honestly, you can see the similarities between the way this government chooses to react and the real world we live in. Reading the books, I was so taken in by the war, the survival, and the choices people had to make in order to keep going. Love is the main reason, but by book 3 it spirals so far out of control you aren't sure of the disease anymore. And I think that is the important thing to keep in mind. Sometimes you forget why you're even fighting a war in the first place.
Hana's point of view adds a whole other view because she's cured. She's on the inside. But the things around her start to unravel, and she has to make choices she could possibly die from. It makes the reader believe that maybe this whole cure they have in place does not work so well.
The characters are defined and strong, the concept is amazing, and the writing makes you want to read more. I truly believe Oliver did a great job with the build up to the "final stand", and she did an excellent job of keeping the reader interested. Trust me the romance isn't so profound that you want to throw up. It's done so perfectly that you don't even recognize it's there.
I strongly suggest this series. It's a great trilogy, and it truly does show the free world, the oppressed world, and how people represent each party.

"We give people the power to choose. They can even choose the wrong thing."

The Pilot, The Poet, The Physic

Throughout their journey, Cassia and Ky have been lost, found, and lost again. Now, Ky is a pilot who brings in cargo for The Pilot in charge of the Rising. Each day he desperately tries to get closer to Cassia, but it seems, for now, they are lost. Cassia is part of the Rising, but hidden within the Society's hold. She continues to trade artifacts (old poems, pills) for information regarding this new wave of change, while still staying in her sorting role. But she also longs to be reunited with her family, and with Ky. Xander is a medic for the Officials in the Society. Each day he gives newborns the cure for the plague and the red tablets, without the other medics knowing this is his plan. He vows to save those who are sick, although a part of him always thinks of Cassia. Would she have picked him if she had stayed?

The three are introduced to The Pilot leading the Rising, and a new wave of government can begin. However, people are getting sick. There is a new plague that no one knows how to cure. Hundreds are going still each day, and a number of those are dying. Just when hope seems lost, The Pilot recruits the three to help establish a cure in a village outside the Society's walls. The Pilot vows to return when they have a cure, so they may administer it to other villages. Is it possible that a cure can come from here? If it does, how many is The Rising willing to lose to prove they are the government to be trusted?

Reached by Ally Condie is the final in the Matched trilogy. Although Crossed was a little let down, Reached pulled the series back up and made me want to stand up and cheer. Condie's writing is so increidble that I found myself book marking multiple pages. The writing stuck with me, and it seemed so effortless. Truly remarkable how Condie has written three books, all of which have the same writing affect.
I liked Reached much more than Crossed(the second in the trilogy) because I felt there was more to it. We did a lot of traveling, lots of things were changing, but it just felt so long. I think it helped that Condie added Xander's point of view to this book. Giving Ky a voice was great, but I always loved Xander because you knew from the beginning there was something different about him. There is something he is hiding. In my opinion, Xander is the strongest of the three. He knows he has pretty much lost the fight for Cassia's heart, but there is a part of him that holds out hope. But, he is driven to other things. Watching him cure people, and seeing his effort makes readers realize he is more than a love sick puppy. He cares for Cassia, but he also cares for Ky. He doesn't hold jealousy, but rather sadness and longing for something more. And honestly, I would have chosen him. :)

Reached shows how one form of corrupt government can be taken over, but perhaps this new wave may not be the answer either. The emphasis on the disease and how much information The Pilot is withholding begins to confuse readers as well. Who can we trust? What are the secrets being kept, and which way should we go?
I labeled the book as "mature audience" simply because younger students may not grasp the concept of the government control; which is the same case with books like, The Hunger Games. The purpose that drives the book is not knowing who can be trusted. The three characters trust each other, and now must reach their own discovery on who is their "Pilot" and who should be followed. I feel this is a real complicated issue, and at times it does make you reconsider how much trust you hold in your government. What are they really keeping from you?
Although it took me a while to get through, lack of time on my part, it was well worth it and a definite great ending to the trilogy. Although we have not "reached" an outcome for the continuing government at the end of the novel, we can assume things will be better. Because they have to.

There is something extraordinary about the first time falling. But it feels even better to find myself standing on solid ground, with someone holding on to me, pulling me back, and know that I'm doing the same for her. ~Condie

I Wasn't A Project. I Wasn't An Experiment. I Wasn't A Blasted Butterfly

Imagine being born into a world where everyone knows you, and you're constantly reminded of how unwelcome you are. Ana is a "no soul", someone who was not reincarnated. In her world everyone has lived thousands of lives because once they die, they are reincarnated. Different body, same soul. The day Ana was born, Ciana died for good. Devastated, the community wasn't sure how to react, but from what she's heard, Ana knows she's disliked.

After living with her mother for eighteen years, Ana journeys out on her own to the city of Heart in order to find some answers. On the way, she encounters spyths(ghost like creatures that can burn and kill), and many near death experiences, but she also finds Sam. There is as softness about him, and the more the two travel together the more she discovers about him. Although Sam defends her, there are still people inside and outside of Heart that do not welcome Ana's presence. As the weeks go on, she desperately searches for answers of her past and future. When an old friend comes back into the picture, it threatens to take away all she's worked for, and the new love she's found.

Incarnate by Jodi Meadows was a very interesting read. I had it on my shelfari shelf for a few months, and finally managed to get to reading it. What struck me was the subject because it was very different. As I was reading the first chapter, I found myself being bored and confused, but with these books I tend to stick it out. I am glad I did.
It is difficult to understand Ana's dilemma because it is so unnatural. She is truly alone; the only person in her world that is a new soul. The terrible abuse her mother put her through leaves Ana with not choice but to trust no one. Readers can tell immediately that her spirit is fragile. Even when Sam shows her nothing but kindness, Ana's first instinct is to run.
This book has a great deal of self-discovery moments, and the tension between Ana and Sam is incredible. I fell in love with the concept, plus the idea of music being part of a person's soul is very easy to relate to. You as a reader are always skeptical of the surroundings because Ana is, but Sam is always the sure thing. Everyone needs a friend like Sam :)
Such a cool story. Definitely a change from the recent subjects, but worth a look.

The "Red Death" had long devastated the country. No pestilence had ever been so fatal, or so hideous.

Araby sees death and disease everywhere. The plague has infected hundreds and whipped out much of the town. Her father, the scientist who created the masks to protect them, is so wrapped up in his work he barely notices her existence. Her mother is still deeply broken from the death of her twin brother, Finn. Being from a higher social class, Araby and her friend, April, spend much of their nights at the Debauchery Club. Filled with beautiful clothes, glittery make-up, and many different substances that can help them forget the horrors of the outside world.
Through Araby's numbness and sorrow, she will discover pieces of a different world. She finds Will, a club worker who has a secret or two he keeps behind his mask. And she will discover Elliot, April's older brother, who despite his dark and mysterious outside has a few tricks he has kept hidden.
Her journey provides her with reasons to look beyond the hopelessness, and maybe have something to live and fight for again.

Being a fan of Poe, I read the summary of Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin on shelfari and found it interesting. Once a few authors I am familiar with gave their five star reviews, I knew I had to immediately check it out. I was not at all disappointed.
Poe's Red Death was horrifyingly real. Griffin makes this story the same. In a world of disease and sadness, how is it possible to be happy and stable? Araby is a great character because she's given up. With a failed suicide attempt, she feels stuck, and as if her parents would rather have her brother and her switch places. She feels hopeless and alone. The Club her and April attend is a picture perfect way out. The scene is very posh, only for the elite crowd, and it is a great escape from the outside. Will and Elliot prove to be important pieces in Araby's life. Each boy is the complete opposite of each other, yet they are so similar it is striking. The love aspect is nice, yet, not the main focus of the novel.
The writing was truly "hauntingly beautiful". It painted a picture of a city in termoil and no form of science has been able to break through. It is amazing to see the inventions and science that goes into this world, yet nothing seems able to compete with the disease proving to take out mass amounts of people.
 I also liked how the author included James Joyce into the novel by using "Araby" as the main character's name. His short short story, "Araby", had the main theme of loss of innocence, and this is exactly the way to describe Araby in Griffin's Masque of the Red Death. Clearly, the author put a lot of thought into her characters and her theme, and this is very reassuring to readers. 
 I loved this book! Really great and a different take on Poe's classic. I absolutely recommend it. It will not disappoint. :) Look forward to a sequel to follow.