Ok, I'll admit that this isn't a "great" novel in the sense that Dostoevsky is a great author. Although, some striking similarities into some creepy pOk, I'll admit that this isn't a "great" novel in the sense that Dostoevsky is a great author. Although, some striking similarities into some creepy people with both, I have to say.
I think the thing people don't like about this book is that everyone is a mess and it's not a typical thriller in that everyone is fixed and all mysteries are solved in the end. Honestly life is like that, though, and I really liked this book. I did NOT, however, like any of the characters, or that the fat alcoholic who can't get over her ex is named RACHEL, which is a name for pretty, smart, and amazing people. That's just known. You cannot trust any of the narrators, who often contradict not only each other but themselves, which keeps things interesting but makes caring about the characters tough.
The book kept me engaged throughout, was an interesting and quick read. My biggest quibble is that all the female characters are weak and hope only for a fairy tale romance (and marriage with kids) while all the men are controlling and peter on violence all.the.time. I don't think it's an accurate representation of domestic violence or alcoholism, which contributes to the societal narrative and general misunderstanding about how these issues affect an individual and how they "should" react to certain events....more
Haaaaaaaaaate. So much hate. The first book started strong, albeit with a few plot holes I thought surely would be answered (WHAT IS OUTSIDE THE WALL)Haaaaaaaaaate. So much hate. The first book started strong, albeit with a few plot holes I thought surely would be answered (WHAT IS OUTSIDE THE WALL) but no, no. Just weirdness.
West is no longer an assassin or active and just teaches young people to kill while she's not in school herself or working in an art gallery. Or smooching like she's never smooched her bf Chord. (Sidenote: I couldn't decide how we're pronouncing his name so almost every time I read it, it sounded different in my head and I kind of hated all versions.) Pretty idyllic, eh? Except for her creepy empty house since her entire family is dead. So of course she has to get involved in some weird kill or be killed scenario and never once stops to think about it or ask for help. Because logic and reason. The only plus is that, somewhere in the story arc the author explains the origins of Kersh and the Alts (ish) but mostly this just raises more questions. By the end I was genuinely hoping a stray bullet would kill Chord (whiny. So whiny.) and/or West. Which isn't typically how you want to feel about a protagonist. I see a third book explaining outside the wall and I see myself ignoring it. ...more
I am having such a hard time writing a review about this book without it's being tainted by the second book. Like so many sequels it left a lot to be I am having such a hard time writing a review about this book without it's being tainted by the second book. Like so many sequels it left a lot to be desired. So, if you're looking for a series might I suggest not starting this one. If you're looking for a one-off this book is exactly what the back cover tells you it will be: two teen clones battling to the death for the safety of the city, nay the world . If that isn't your thing, maybe also don't read it. Parts get pretty graphic and gruesome. I was pleased that the "romantic" aspects of the book were kept to a minimum (heart pounding, long looks, etc. etc.)
So, the unrealistic parts: Kersh is under sieige constantly, yet the most anyone ever talks about are occasional flares from outside the walls, and no one has ever seen current evidence of people out there, not even on propaganda newscasts, and no one is curious?!?!? . Oh, also West becomes a master assassin with no training and is almost always narrowly missing screwing things up. While it might be realistic (I would have no idea how to become a master assassin) it also leaves the reader unsure as to how well she will fare against her Alt. I mean, don't get me wrong there are a lot of plot holes to rally against, but overall this was a compelling YA read. ...more
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