Science Fiction, Urban & Dystopic

“Across the Ages” by Gabrielle Meyer 

Caroline lives in both 1727 and 1927.  Each morning she wakes in the other timeline, alternating her days.  In 1727, Caroline finds a note from her mother, hinting that she is also a time-crosser.  Running away from her plantation, she sails to the Bahamas.  Before she can find her mom, the ship is boarded by pirates and she is conscripted as a cabin boy.  In 1927, Caroline is the daughter of a famous preacher.  Her two brothers are rum running, and one is cheating on his spouse.

Out of the two storylines the 1727 storyline was much more intriguing than the other.  The 1920’s storyline seemed less developed and less flushed out.  I’ve really enjoyed this series, and hope that the author continues writing these books.  Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.

“The Gender Game” by Bella Forrest

The world is divided by gender into two lands - Matrus and Patrus.  On Matrus, women dominate, on Patrus, men dominate.  Violet is in the Matrus prison system for losing control of her temper.  After another violent encounter, she is recruited by the Queen of Matrus to infiltrate Patrus and recover an artifact.  In order to get by in Patrus, she is forced into a marriage with another spy.

While I enjoyed the world and characters, the plot itself was a bit simplistic.  The recovery mission seemed a bit wonky and unrealistic.  I also grew tired of the endless cage fighting.  I got it, Violet was drawn to fighting.  But cage fighting seemed to dominate the story rather than the recovery mission.  With some editing and further world development, this could be a good series.  Otherwise, 3 out of 5 stars.

“Breath of Venus” by Jasmine Santala

Beatrice has spent her entire life within the walls of her mother’s home.  Told that her lungs were weak and that breathing the air would kill her, Beatrice has been hidden away.  When her mother, the president, is killed, Beatrice's life is thrown into chaos.

I had a hard time with this book, it felt like a bad translation.  The characters were a bit stereotypical and the plot itself was a bit absurd.  Overall, this is not a book I would reread or recommend.

“Right Hand of the Resistance” by Paul Michael Peters

This book is a collection of intertwined stories set in a dystopic world.  It begins with Dona Avila crossing the Barrier in a horrific journey atop a train car.  Once she crosses the border, she works at a variety of farms. Each time moving closer and closer to Francisco Jesus De La Vega - a legendary rebel leader.  However, nothing is what it seems, as each story uncovers a hidden motive and agenda.

This story had an intriguing format which worked well with the world.  I found the book hard to put down.  The story left me wanting more - more of this world, more of the characters, just more.  Overall, 5 out of 5 stars.

“Nightbirds” by Kate J. Armstrong

The Nightbirds are able to bestow magic with a kiss.  Protected by the elite of the city there are rules and procedures that must be followed in order to purchase a visit.  However, the church believes the nightbirds are evil and are intent on killing them or removing their power.  When the four current nightbirds come together their power surges, unlocking gifts that were previously only legends.

This was a very different, very interesting world.  I liked the magic system, its lore, and how it grew and expanded throughout the story.  I thought the characters could have been flushed out a little more.  While their backstories were interesting their personalities seemed so similar.  I felt that the girls were a bit interchangeable.  Despite this criticism I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more from this author.

For a Lifetime” by Gabrielle Meyer 

In Salem, the twins live with their father, an innkeeper.  As the community begins making accusations of witchcraft, the sisters must walk a careful balance between biding time and survival.   In New York,  Hope dreams of becoming a female pilot while Grace works as a journalist.  When the financial security of their parents' orphanage is threatened, the two do everything they can to raise money.

I really enjoy this series.  It is well written, the time periods are meticulously researched, and the characters are fun.  I particularly enjoyed reading the twins alternating viewpoints.  It added an extra dimension to the story.  I was a bit more interested in the Salem witch trials than the aviation storyline but both were very well written.  I can’t wait to read the next story in the series!

“Nanoland” by Jack McGuigan

  A huge theme park, Nanoland is Frank Nano’s vision come to life.  Alicia, who plays a nano princess, longs for more.  When the attractions begin attacking guests, Alicia and a small band of survivors work together to flee the park and uncover the mystery of what is happening.

This book can be summed up in a few words - Mickey mouse meets Jurassic Park.  The fact that out of control technology  was beloved children’s toys added a fun and twisted element.  The characters themselves were a bit stereotypical, I really wanted more from them.  However, I enjoyed the story.  Overall, 4 out of 5. 

"The Library at Mount Char" by Scott Hawkins

I'm not entirely sure how to describe this book.  It is truly an original work of art.  It contained fascinating, multi-dimensional characters who constantly surprised me.  It was well paced, and hard to put down.  The story itself was both horrific and wonderful at the same time.  I look forward to reading more from this author!

"Hammer of the Dogs" by Jarret Keene

After nuclear weapons destroyed the world, pockets of civilization fight over resources and technology.  Lash is one of the oldest students at a paramilitary school set at the Luxor on the destroyed Vegas strip.  The school teaches that cyborg Jesus will restore the world.  When lash is captured by the school's enemy, she realizes that her life has been based on a lie.

I'm not sure how to rate this book.  It wasn't what I was expecting.  I do not particularly enjoy the cyborg, technology-mad stories.  I prefer the dystopic novels where technology has been destroyed.  I had a hard time relating to Lash and the other characters.  Despite this criticism, the book was well written and well paced.  I'm sure many will enjoy it.

"The Guidal: Unearthing Secrets" by Roxy Eloise

This is the second book in the Puracordis series.  After discovering that she has magic, Aurora begins to explore her powers with Tayo, a boy from her past.  

I hate to write this review, but I really disliked this book.  The first book in the series was really good and I was looking forward to this one.  I'm not sure what happened to the storytelling.  The entire first half of the book was two characters making out and seeing how far they could go without actually having sex.  Plot wise, nothing else was happening.  In the second half of the book, Aurora told her best friend and her match about puracordis.  Their reaction was pure excitement.  This seemed at odds in a society who deems magic malevolent and seeks to exterminate it at any costs.  Sadly, this book just did not work for me.

"Cassiel's Servant" by Jacqueline Carey

This is the long anticipated book retelling Kushiel's Dart from Joscelin's point of view.  Trained as a warrior from the age of 10, Joscelin is taught discipline, celibacy and self  control.  When he completes his training, and takes his vows as a warrior-priest, he is astonished to be posted to Phedre, a courtesan in the city of Elua.  He quickly realizes there is more to Phedre and her household, and he slowly starts falling in love. 

Although I enjoyed this book, it lacked the tension between Joscelin and Phedre that made Kushiel's Dart so intriguing and special.  I enjoyed getting to know Joscelin's history and back-story, but that could have been done in a novella or stand alone book.  As always, Carey's writing is artful and beautifully done.  Overall 4 out of 5 stars.

"In This Moment" by Gabrielle Meyer

Maggie lives in three timelines, 1861, 1941, and 2001.  When she reaches 21, she must decide which life to remain in.  In 2001, Maggie is a hard  working medical student.  In 1941, Maggie is a nurse. Maggie and her sister join the navy, and are sent to a hospital ship in Pearl Harbor.  In 1861, Maggie is the daughter of a northern senator at the beginning of the Civil War.  She loves each life that she leads and struggles to make a decision.

I really enjoyed this book.  Each timeline was well flushed out and detailed.  Maggie was a fascinating character.  She was well developed and easy to love.  I think I've found a new favorite author, I can't wait to read more!

"The Final Olympics" by Laurel Solorzano

Natural resources are sparse, and adulthood is not guaranteed.  Every year, an Olympics is held.  Those that do not succeed, are taken out of society.  Eden's best friend Xander, places in the top ranks for wrestling.  Eden competes in every competition, but she is not particularly strong, fast, or smart.  Will she medal?  If not, what is her fate?

I thought this book had a lot of promise.  The characters were interesting and multi-dimensional.  I wanted to know more about the world, and the other countries.  Perhaps this will be outlined in future stories.  Overall, the plot moved nicely, with lots of ups and downs.  4 out of 5 stars.

"Hierarchy of Blood" by Jennifer Haskin

17 year old Marishel is selected as one of 60 women to fight to the death for the hand of Prince.  Traveling from her home in the chilly outreaches of the planet, she is transported to the warmth and comfort of the capital.  Determined to stop the process, she struggles to make allies and convince other girls to join her.

Although this was an interesting story, the book needed a bit more character and plot development.  60 girls was a bit much, they all seemed to blend together.  It was extremely easy to get in and out of the palace, which seemed a bit unrealistic.  In the end, everything was resolved way to easily.  Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me.

"The Female Breeders" by Melanie Bokstad Horey

In order to ensure a non-violent, utopian society, men are relegated to hard labor and reproduction.  Women have been genetically enhanced in one of five ways, designed to make them super-human.  When scientist Need is assigned to interview males before they are chosen for breeding, she slowly realizes that they are human, with thoughts, dreams, and feelings.

Although I thought this was an interesting world, it needed a bit more development or explanation.  The characters were engaging and showed development throughout the story.  My biggest criticism is that the plot jumped quite a bit, glossing over important events and then giving a brief description of them.  The book could have been more coherent if the author took her time with those plot points.  Overall, a decent book, I will probably pick up the sequel.

"Mandate 13" by Joseph J. Dowling 

Since a Christian conservative government took over, life has become more limited and structured.  At the age of 13, Hope tests positive for fertility and is set to go to one of the Birthing School facilities.  Outraged, Michael dodges the Baby Farmers and he and Hope go on the run.

This entire book was one big chase scene.  I thought the characters were a bit stereotypical and lacking dimensionality.  I would have been much more interested in reading about the Birthing Schools and reading about the girls trapped within the rigid system.   How the plot unraveled, was just not for me. Overall, not a book I would re-read or recommend.

"The Stranded" by Sarah Daniels

When war ravaged Europe, those traveling on the cruise ship Arcadia were left without a home.  Generations later, people still inhabit the cruise ships, desperate to find refuge in the Federated States.  Esther is training as a medic, if she passes her tests, she will have a chance to leave the ship and train on dry land.  Nik, a member of the rebel underground, launches a leaflet campaign with Ester's sister.  Hadley is the security commander of the ship.  Desperate to have the ship decommissioned, he will do anything to maintain law and order.

I really enjoyed this book.  The world was well developed and nuanced.  The characters were fascinating and realistic.  The plot moved forward and a nice pace, keeping me interested and engaging.  I look forward to reading more from this author.  Highly recommended!

"The New One" by Evie Green

Tamsyn, Ed and their daughter Scarlett live in a cramped, stifling caravan.  After a fight between teenage Scarlett and Tamsyn, Scarlet runs off and is hit by a car.  With Scarlet on life support with little chance of waking from her coma, Tamsyn and Ed jump at the opportunity of a lifetime from a company in Switzerland.  In return for a new life, luxurious gifts and money, they agree to welcome and nurture an artificial clone of their daughter.

This was a fascinating premise.  The characters were well written and engaging.  The plot unraveled nicely and contained a number of surprises.  My only complaint is that the book felt unfinished.  I hope there is a sequel in the works!  Overall, 5 out of 5 stars.

"The Terraformers" by Annalee Newitz

The book is a lifecycle of the planet Sask-E and it's terraforming and development.  The first part focused on Destry, a member of the Environmental Rescue Team.  Their goal, to maintain the balance of the eco-system.  When a lava flow uncovers a hidden door, Destry and her team discover a city of people, the original terraformers who were supposed to die out.  The second part of the book focuses on creating a public transit system to connect the planet.  The third part of the book focuses on thwarting the private owners, who are determined to take over the planet for themselves.

I thought this was a well written and well developed world.  My only criticism is that this felt like 3 different book.  I really wanted to know more details about what happened to the characters in the previous parts.  Instead, the author left their fates a bit vague.  Despite this criticism, highly recommended. 

"Wayward" by Chuck Wendig

This is a sequel to Wanderers.  This novel is a bit hard to describe, it is complex and highly detailed.  It continues the story of the sleepwalkers, the shepherds, and those left alive after a pandemic devastates the world.  Black swan, the artificial intelligence who orchestrated the pandemic and the shepherds begins to develop feelings and starts to resent those she was previously protecting.

  This was an extremely engaging book.  It was hard to put down and I found myself reading long into the night.  The word is extremely detailed and well thought out.  Overall, I highly recommend this book, and the author.

"The Survivors" by T.C. Weber

Set in a dystopic novel, Lucy and her young daughter live with a small group of people.  The leader is determined to survive, and uses violence to control her group and displace others.  When a storm floods their home, they are forced to leave and seek a different path.

  This was an odd book.  The world and its back-story did not feel well developed.  The characters personalities and their actions did not always gel, making the book feel very discordant.  Overall, not a book that I would re-read or recommend. 

"Poster Girl" by Veronica Roth

After the fall of the Delegation government, its top members and families were locked in the Aperture, a prison city.  Sonya, the Delegation's poster girl, has been imprisoned for ten years.  When she is offered a deal, find a missing girl in exchange for your freedom, she reluctantly takes up the challenge.

  I'm not sure that I loved this book, it was overly nostalgic and a bit bland.  I would have loved to learn more about the Delegation and the revolution.  I would love to read a prequel or something set earlier in the world.  Overall, 3 out of 5 stars.

The Ferryman by Justine Cronin

The island paradise of Prospera is divided into the halves and their servants.  The halves are subjected to monitoring, and when their levels fall below 10% their bodies are recycled and they are reborn at the age of 16.  They are then adopted by the halves, to repeat the cycle of life.  Their servants live in poverty, barely making ends meet.  They are forced to provide menial service to the halves, while they scramble to survive.  Bennett, one of the halves, is a ferryman.  His job is to take those who have fallen below 10% to the Nursery to be recycled.  When he leads his father to the ferry, his father tells him that not all is at it seems.  Determine to uncover the truth, Bennett begins to spiral out of control.

  I do not want to give anything away about the story.  All I can say is that the mystery was not well explained, I wanted to know more details about the process and how everything came to be.  I think a prequel and sequel would both be interesting to read.  It felt like something was missing about the characters, perhaps a prequel would help round them out and make them feel more realistic.  Overall, an interesting world, one I want to know more about.

"When the Day Comes" by Gabrielle Meyer

Libby leads two lives, one in 1774 Colonial Williamsburg, and the other in 1914 New York.  When she wakes each day, she alternates between the two timelines.  In 1774, Libby and her family struggle to run a press after the death of her father.  When they become the public printer, they begin publishing to the lead-up to the American Revolution.  In 1914, Libby is the daughter of a gilded age, new money mother, who intends to marry Libby to a titled lord in England.  On her 21st birthday, Libby must choose which timeline to continue in, but her plans are out of her control.

I  generally do not like time jumping books, but this one was so well done, I just could not put it down.  I can't wait to read more from this author.  Her storylines were exciting and fast paced, her characters were well developed and multi dimensional.  Overall, 5 out of 5 stars.

"Powerless" by Jeff O'Handley

When the power goes out, cars stop working, and electronics freeze, Kevin does the best he can to take care of his wife, daughter, and his daughter's friend Dina.  The community quickly begins to panic and lawlessness rules.  When Sobchuck steps up, he organizes the community, pools resources and keeps everyone afloat.  However, he demands Kevin turn over Dina to him.  Kevin's wife slowly begins to suspect a relationship between Kevin and Dina, threatening the family. 

  I had a hard time with this book.  It seemed that every man was extremely horny and primarily focused with getting laid.  In a survival situation, where people are exhausted and focused on food and water, this just did not seem realistic.  The characters seemed a bit stereotypical, and the plot was a bit anticlimactic.  Overall, not a book I would reread or recommend.

"Otherland: Mountain of black Glass,"  and "Otherland: Sea of Silver Light" by Tad Williams  (audio books)

"Mountain of Black Glass" and "Sea of Silver Light" are books 3 and 4 of the Otherland series.  I have read these books numerous times, this time I listened to the audio books.  Please visit my previous review under June, 2016 for details on the series itself.  The reader did a good job with storytelling, emotions, and voices for the characters.  There was a continuity between the books, which helped the story flow.  The accents were a bit off, but after a while this did not bother me.  Overall, well worth reading or listening too!

"Otherland: City of Golden Shadow" and "Otherland: River of Blue Fire" by Tad Williams (audio book)

This is one of my favorite series.  I find myself re-reading it every few years.  This time, I listened to the audio books while commuting.  My biggest thought about the audio books is that the accents are just awful.  The Australian sounds American, the American's sound English, the African's sound Indian, it's just a big mess.  In the second book, either I had gotten used to the accents, or they were slightly improved.  Regardless, I was able to let the accents go and just relax and enjoy the audio books.  The reader does a good job with inflections and expressing emotion.  Overall, highly recommended!

"The Guidal:  Discovering Puracordis" by Roxy Eloise

Set in a dystopic future, Aurora is being raised by the government in a military like setting.  When she becomes an adult, she undergoes the mandatory unity ceremony, where she is paired up with Pax, a man she is now required to marry.  In this world magic is feared and punished by death.  When Aurora begins exhibiting symptoms of magic, she must determine who she can trust.

  I could not put this book down.  The world was well crafted, the characters were rich and dynamic and the book unraveled at a wonderful pace.  I can't believe this is the first novel from the author.  I can't wait to read more! 5 out of 5 stars.

"Upgrade" by Blake Crouch

This book is set in a future where gene modification nearly wiped out humanity.  Logan works for a government department investigation cases of gene modification.  During a raid an explosion launches a virus into Logan's body which changes and enhances his genes.  When the changes begin to manifest, his coworkers place him in a black site location to test and monitor the modifications.  Logan's sister, who has also been modified, breaks him out of the black site.  Together, they learn that their mother is behind the changes, with a plan to change the entire world. 

  I like Blake Crouch and his storytelling, but I did not enjoy this particular book.  I am not a fan of "super" humans, and do not enjoy this type of book.  The author did a good job with the subject matter, it just wasn't for me.  I am looking forward to the author's next book, he is definitely one of the greats!

"Mikey7" by Edward Ashton

Mickey's job is to die.  As an expendable, he is sent on dangerous missions by the colonist, where his chance of survival is nil.  Once he dies, his body is reprinted and his memories uploaded to the new iteration.  When sent on a routine mission, he falls into an underground tunnel system and is presumed dead.  Before he can rejoin the colony, a new Mikey is printed.  Duplicates are both feared and loathed, causing Mickey7 and Mickey8 to hide for fear of being recycled.  Terraforming is going poorly, calories are limited, and the local life forms seem to be attacking the colony.  Just when things can't get worse....they do.

  This was an extremely dynamic story.  The world was well formed and developed and both the society and technology seemed believable.  I would love to read more from this author.  5 out of 5 stars.

urt of the Grandchildren" by Muntisov & Finlayson

Set in 2050's America, Lily receives a call from an unknown great uncle.  When she meets David, he tells her that he wants her permission, under the euthanasia laws, to die.   Lily is startled, and unsure how to proceed.  When she learns that he has been called before the Climate Court, she pushes him to attend.  At the climate court, his accomplishments and decisions are questioned.

  Although I thought this book was well written, and the characters were dynamic, the book lacked detail about the world.  For example, the book mentioned GISC multiple times, but didn't actually explain what it was until halfway through the book.  The climate court itself was interesting, but I did not think it was a big scary stressful event, like the characters made out.  Due to this problems, 3 out of 5 stars.

"The Testaments" by Margaret Atwood         

Set fifteen years after the Handmaid's Tale, this book follows the stories - Aunt Lydia, Agnes, and Daisy. Aunt Lydia tells the story of how she became an Aunt, and the choices she has made to remain in power. Agnes grew up in Gilead and is being prepped for marriage. However, she decides to join the Aunts rather than marry and have children. Daisy, born in Canada, learns at 16 that her past is a lie.         

I had a hard time getting into this book. The plot seemed very slow moving, and felt extremely anticlimactic. I was glad to have multiple points of view, but even then, I did not find myself drawn to any particular story. I did not like the vagueness and the lack of details that permeated this book. Overall, 3 out of 5 stars.

"Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir         

When Ryland Grace wakes he can't remember who he is or what he is supposed to be doing. He quickly discovers two bodies nearby and realizes that he is on a space ship. Slowly, he begins to recover his memory, realizing that he is on a mission to save humanity and unravel the mystery of substance that is quickly dimming the sun.         

This book caught me from the very beginning. It was hard to put down and I found myself reading long into the night. Ryland was a fun dynamic character, and it was interesting to see the story unravel. Overall, highly recommended.

"Girl One" by Sara Flannery Murphy         

Josie, Girl One, was the first of nine babies conceived through a virgin birth. When she was 6, the Homestead burned, the experiment ended, and the mothers and children scattered. As an adult, Josie is away at medical school when her mother disappears. Determined to find her, Josie begins tracking down the other babies and mothers.         

This was a quick read that kept me turning pages long into the night. However, I wanted to know more about the homestead and the virgin birth process. I wish the girls had been pre-teens or teenagers when the fire happened and everyone scattered. Josie, and the other characters seemed a bit flat. They were not very dynamic or well developed. Overall, 3 out of 5 stars.

"The Gilded Ones" by Namina Forna         

At the age of sixteen, every girl is subjected to a purity ritual. If her blood runs red, she is pure and welcomed as a woman of the village. If her blood runs gold, she is unpure, a demon who is immediately subject to death. However, those with gold blood are stronger, and much harder to kill. When Deka's blood runs gold, village elders attempt to kill her 9 times, before White Hands offers her a choice. Deka can either stay in her village and continue to be tortured and bled, or she can join an elite fighting unit composed of others of her kind.         

I really enjoyed this book right up until the end. The characters were dynamic, well written and engaging. I don't want to give any spoilers, but I thought the ending was poorly done. It seemed rushed and explanations were glossed over. Overall, the ending felt very unsatisfying. Because of these criticism, I am not likely to pick up the next book in the series.

"Complex" by A.D. Enderly         

Set in a dystopic future, with a huge cast of characters, this book outlines the struggle between Legacy, and the Complex. In Legacy, Val and her sister are barely surviving on government rations and government housing. In the Complex, life is secure, people are fed and housed, but they must give up their very lives to the system. When Val's sister is kidnapped, she is forced to dig through a wide-spread Complex conspiracy.          

With the huge cast of characters, this book was a bit slow to start. That being said, the world was extremely well crafted, detailed, and believable. Once I figured out how all of the characters were connected, I had a hard time putting the book down. Overall, well worth picking up.

"The Prison Healer" by Lynette Noni         

At the age of seven, Kiva and her father were sent to Zalindov, a death prison. Although her father did not survive, Kiva found a place working as the prison healer. When the Rebel Queen is captured, Kiva is sent a message - "Don't let her die." With the Rebel Queen slated to undergo the Trial by Ordeal, Kiva must make the decision to step into her place and undergo challenges of air, fire, water and earth.         

This book was engaging and dynamic. It was extremely well written. The characters felt very realistic. I will definitely be reading the next book in this series. Overall, 5 out of 5 stars.

"Titan Martyrs" by Kate Rauner         

This is the final book in the Titan trilogy. Fynn has moved onboard the space station, and Kin are rotating to the station to avoid gravity sickness. When a blackout occurs on the space station, Kin panic and flock back to the colony.          

This was a strong finish to the series. The characters are well developed, and very relatable. I found the cult aspect of the series fascinating. It really added an interesting dynamic to the book. Kate is an expert at world building, and adding the details to make everything feel realistic. I look forward to reading more from this author!

"Water Must Fall" by Nick Wood         

In 2048, water is a precious commodity. Climate change has drastically altered both the standard of living and the economy. In Africa, Graham, a reporter, is struggling to save his marriage to Lizette. Lizette, is searching for something more. In California Arthur works to find ways to save water and root out corruption.          

I made it twenty-five percent into the book, and nothing had happened. The story rambled all over the place, getting absolutely nowhere. Unfortunately I was unable to finish this one, it was a complete bust.

"The Andromeda's Ghost" by Becca Fox         

Former bodyguard Taren, kidnaps/rescues Princess Kylee as she is walking down the aisle to marry another. Together, they flee in a stolen spaceship. After being shot down and stranded on Cartiss, they must evade the royal guards and find enough supplies in the mafia ruled town of Hurren.         

This was a well written, and interesting book. I generally do not go for sci-fi books, but I thought the premise of this one was intriguing. The characters were well defined, and although slightly stereotypical, were dynamic enough to keep me interested. I would like to read more from this author.

"Lost in Waste" by Catherine Haustine          

Set in a dystopic world, Cali and Eve are working together in a competition to become in vitro's. In vitro status would give both women status and wealth. When they are sent to a trash heap and solid waste pit, they are astonished to discover men nearby.          

I'm not exactly sure how to rate this book. The oddity of it, and the dynamic characters kept me reading. The world itself wasn't explained very well, and the book seemed half thought out. Although I would re-read this book, it wasn't altogether bad. Overall, 3 out of 5 stars.

"The Fortress" by S.A. Jones         

After being caught cheating by his wife, Jonathon, a high powered professional, will do whatever it takes to win her back. Even giving up a year of his life to live in the Fortress. The Vaik, a society ran and populated entirely by women, are in charge of the Fortress. The Vaik believe primarily in four tenants - work, history, sex, and justice. Within, they demand complete and unyielding obedience from the supplicants.

     This was an absolutely fascinating book. I found the Vaik and their culture to be particular interesting. I wish the author had went into more detail about their existence, but perhaps that is grounds for a sequel. Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author.

"The Mother Code" by Carole Stivers         

As a genetically modified virus runs rampant, a small elite team come together to prepare for the end of humanity. In a last ditch effort, they create fifty robots, designed to "birth" and raise children who have been genetically modified to survive the virus. The book alternates between the team creating the robots, and years later beginning with the children as six years old.          

This was a fascinating and hard to put down book. The alternating story lines worked really well together. I thought the dynamic between the Mother robots and the children were fascinating. I would love to read another book set in this universe. Overall, highly recommended.

"The Girl Behind the Red Rope" by Dekker & Dekker         

Grace and the rest of her religious community have been living isolated since a vision they all had ten years ago. In their vision, they saw the Furies, taking over the world and killing everyone. The community lives with the philosophy that fear will keep them safe. When Grace's brother is caught living the bounds of their community, Grace and her brother are both sent out to explore the world. The first night, Grace's brother is attacked by a fury, and a woman comes to Grace promising to protect her.         

Although the book had an interesting premise, I don't think it was well executed. Grace came across as completely whishy washy. She felt like a weak secondary character, rather than the main character. I also thought that the philosophy needed some work. Sure, love is light, fear is dark. But the idea that light banishes dark, therefore love banishes fear, didn't really work for me. Overall, 2 out of 5 stars.

"Wanderers" Chuck Wendig         

Many books detail life after a cataclysmic event. This book takes you right through the event itself. Upon waking, Shana discovers that her little sister has turned into a sleepwalker. She cannot wake up, and she cannot be stopped. Every few hours another sleepwalker joins her. The CDC swoops in to investigate, fearing a contagion or bio-terrorist attack. While the sleepwalkers grow, a racist and well armed faction rises to power, determined that white supremacy will once again rule. Further, a new and terrifying fungal disease sweeps across the nation, threatening to wipe out all of humanity.

     The book has an enormous cast, and it is hard to give an accurate description of everything that is going on. The book felt so realistic, the characters were real and dynamic. This is definitely one of those epic, must read books. 5 stars.

"Ration" by Cody T. Luff          

Set in a dystopic future, calories have become currency. In the farms, girls are raised to be meat, and manipulated by fear mongering women. In the farms, ordering an A ration, means that a fellow girl is killed and processed. Cynthia, accused of ordering an A ration is beaten by the other girls in the farm. In revenge, she orders A ration after A ration, forcing the deaths of a whole floor of girls. In punishment, she is force fed A ration after A ration by Ms. Glennoc. When the farm owner finds out, she turns out Ms. Glennoc and Cynthia to the streets.          

This was a very odd world. I wish much more had been explained about the system. I spent most of the book cringing, yet I kept reading because I needed to know what happened next. I'm not sure I would re-read this book, but I would pick up another book by this author. Overall, 3 out of 5 stars.

"The Grace Year" by Kim Liggett         

At the age of 16, the girls are marched out of town to a wooden enclosure, where they will spend a year. The Grace Year, is the time where the girls embrace their magic, and release it back into the wild, so they can return spent of magic and ready to marry. Tierney, a tomboy who has shied away from the other girls, is one of the Grace Year Girls. She quickly discovers that it is not just the wild and the poachers that she must fear, but also the other girls.         

I could not put this book down. It was utterly fascinating. Both the story and characters drew me in immediately. I can't wait to read more from this author!

"The Warehouse" by Rob Hart         

Cloud, a giant tech company, has created company live-work facilities, where everything you might need is in one place. After his start-up business fails because of Cloud's demand, Paxton is desperate for a job. Zinnia, a corporate spy, has been tasked with finding out about Cloud's energy producing facility. Paxton, assigned to security, quickly becomes an asset to Zinnia, an asset that she is falling form.         

This was a well constructed and fascinating world. The characters were realistic and multi-dimensional. I enjoyed this book and would love to read more set in this world. Overall, highly recommended.

"Wilder Girls" by Rory Power         

Almost two years ago, the Raxter School for Girls was placed under quarantine after a mysterious disease, the Tox hit. The Tox hits everyone differently. One girl grew gills, another bio luminescent hair, and one grew a second spine. Plagued with terrible pains, bruises, and sometimes death, the girls are largely left alone. All but two of the adults have died, their bodies unable to handle the invading Tox. The local navy base delivers supplies across the island. Hetty, chosen to join the boat girls, treks across the island, only to uncover a horrible secret.         

This was a bizarre, hard to put down book. I found myself reading late into the night. The characters were extremely interesting. They were also very realistic. I would love to read more from this author. Overall, highly recommended.

"After the Flood" by Kassandra Montag         

Rising floodwaters have taken over most of the world. Groups of marauders have begun taking over, enslaving those who are left. Myra and her daughter Pearl make a living on the water, fishing and bartering. 8 years ago, Myra's eldest daughter Row was kidnapped by her father. When Myra hears that Row is alive and living in a marauder's colony, she is determined to reach her. When Myra's ship is wrecked, she and Pearl join forces with a larger boat. Through lies and deception, Myra convinces them to sail to the marauder's colony.         

This was an interesting and engaging story. The characters were realistic and dynamic and the book was well paced. I would love to read more books set in this world. Overall, well worth picking up.

"The Kingdom" by Jess Rotheberg         

Ana is a hybrid, half-android, half human. She is one of 7 fantasists, who live in The Kingdom, a magical theme park. Ana has been accused of murdering Owen, a park employee. The book alternates between the past, trial snippets, and the time period immediately after the trial.         

This was a fascinating book. I could not put it down. It was a very interesting world, and the alternating chapters worked very well. I look forward to reading more from this author. Overall, highly recommended.

"Immortal" by Nick M. Lloyd         

Everyone on Earth receives the same message, at the same time - "We're coming to help." An alien race, the Ankor, claims that a gamma ray burst is about to wipe out earth's civilization and they are here to help build an orbital shield. Tim and Sam, work for a bioengineering company under the direction of Francis MacKenzie. MacKenzie immediately jumps to the defense of the Ankor, claiming that Earth has no choice but to comply with their requests. Tim and Sam aren't so sure that the Ankor are as peaceful and helpful as they claim, and they are determined to uncover the truth.

     It took me a little while to get into the book. At first the characters and plot line seemed a bit stale, but as the story unraveled I found myself drawn in. I don't want to give anything away, but it was definitely worth it. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.

"Titan: Colonizing Saturn's Moon" by Kate Rauner         

Kate Rauner is back with a new series. In Titan, a cult like group called the Kin, have hijacked a space craft and are setting off to colonize Saturn's moon. Fynn, the son of one of the Kin's leader, wakes up from stasis, only to learn that he can no longer return to Earth. As the Kin adjust to their new environment, factions of their group begin acting oddly, imposing discipline for seemingly minor infractions.         

I thought this was a well written, dynamic story. The characters were well developed and interesting. I enjoy the author's attention to detail, particularly with the colonization process. I found myself wanting more details about the Kin as a whole, particularly how they were formed, and how they functioned on Earth. Overall, highly recommended. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

"Recursion" by Blake Crouch         

Barry, a detective, begins investigating a case of suicide, the cause, False Memory Syndrome. Those with FMS have more than one set of memory, often involving family members, relationships, or situations that never really existed. It is enough to drive someone mad. Helena Smith, a neuroscientist interested in preserving memories, is hired by a mysterious man to build a chair, one designed to preserve, and re-experience one's memories. Accidentally, she discovers that the process allows one to "travel back" and change the memory.         

This was a fascinating book. I found myself reading late into the night, waiting to see what happened with the characters and storylines. Barry and Helena were both interesting and dynamic characters. They were fully realized and grew/changed throughout the story.

"The GAPCAI Effect" by W. S. Jenkins         

Toba, renowned scientist of the GAPCAI civilization, has found a star that supports human life. After discovering Earth in 1637, GAPCAI technology tracks the lives of each human and broadcasts to GAPCAI and a live stream. When Toba learns how to reduce the journey to Earth to 800 days, he travels to the new world. Disturbed by the destructive tendencies of humans, he implements a GAPCAI morality program, forcing humans to behave.         

I was very disappointed with this book. The characters were very generic and stereotypical. There were large time jumps in the book, and the plot/conflict was never fully played out. Although this was a neat concept, overall, the book was a bust.

"Internment" by Samira Ahmed         

Layla and her family are sent to an internment camp for Muslim Americans. A handful of teenagers band together, determined to let the outside world know about the disappearances of anyone who speaks up, the camp conditions, and the brutal camp director.         

I thought this book had an interesting premise, and teenagers will probably love it. However, I grew a bit bored with the book. Layla spends most of her time trying to sneak her boyfriend into camp and smuggle out letters to him. Of course she misses her boyfriend, but it seemed improbable that she would be able to sneak him in. The focus on the boyfriend made the book seem less than real. Overall, not a book I would reread.

"The Hunt: A Dystopian Nightmare" by Brad Stevens         

Women are second class citizens. They are forced to wear a feminine uniform when out in public, are not allowed to vote, and have little to no control over their own reproductive choices. In response to a terrorist attack, the government created The Hunt. 10 women are chosen randomly each week, where they are pursued by 10 hunters. When captured, they are trapped in a bdsm nightmare. Mara, a crime novelist, is selected for The Hunt.         

This book had a very interesting premise and realistic characters. It moved at a quick pace and held my interest. I found Mara to be a particularly interesting and dynamic character, one that was very relatable. Overall, well worth reading.

"Give the Dark My Love" by Beth Revis          

Nedra receives a scholarship to attend the Yugen Academy, a place where alchemy is taught. Her classmates are from the wealthiest and most powerful families, leaving Nedra to feel out of place at the school. When plague begins to spread, Nedra finds herself working day and night to help the victims.          

This was an utterly fascinating book. Nedra was a very believable and well rounded character. The book was paced nicely, and the world was well described. I look forward to reading more from this author. Overall, highly recommended.

"Shivering World" by Kathy Tyers         

Graysha accepts a terraforming position on a hazardous planet with the hope that rumors about illegal genetic research are true. However, Graysha's mother is the head of the Eugenics Board, and getting the locals to trust her is seemingly impossible. Without the research, Graysha's genetic disorder will continue to slowly kill her.         

This was a very well developed world with full, rich characters. The story was well paced and kept me reading long into the night. I look forward to reading more from this author. Highly recommended.

"The Grandmother Paradox" by Wendy Nikel         

This is the second book in A Place in Time series. When Dr. Wells discovers that his rivals are trying to eliminate his employee's ancestors, he sends Chandler back in time to protect Juliette Argent. Juliette is working as the assistant to a traveling magician.         

Although I find this series interesting, this book was a bit lacking. Everything was resolved extremely quickly and pretty easily. There was very little tension in the book, which made it a bit lack luster. I will read more from this author, but this book was a bust.