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Concealed in the Shadows #1
Concealed in the Shadows
Sydney Harter has long awaited September 12th, 2033—her eighteenth birthday. She can finally apply for guardianship of her sister, who is her only family and entire world. She hopes they will be lawfully reunited, but is prepared to defy authority and risk everything to escape the captivity of Miles County so that they can be together.
Escaping will be difficult and dangerous. Citizens are bound to their county by sophisticated chip implants that deliver shocks to those who dare to cross the electric barrier. Sydney is very clever, but her trickery is limited against the all-seeing eyes of technology. Even if they were to survive the escape, disappearing into the forgotten forests and towns of the past seems an impossible task.
What Sydney doesn't know is that she is the particular interest of two opposing forces. With deceit, fear, and warfare surrounding her—can she trust the party that aims to help with her fight against the other? Can she open her heart to receive and return unexpected love? When her sister’s life becomes jeopardized, Sydney will have to weigh a new love against the only enduring love she has known. The cost could be deadly�
How will she choose?
Clean Teen Publishing's Content Levels (Out of 4):
Violence: 4
Language: 3
Romance/Sensuality: 1
Drugs/Alcohol/Smoking: 3
Escaping will be difficult and dangerous. Citizens are bound to their county by sophisticated chip implants that deliver shocks to those who dare to cross the electric barrier. Sydney is very clever, but her trickery is limited against the all-seeing eyes of technology. Even if they were to survive the escape, disappearing into the forgotten forests and towns of the past seems an impossible task.
What Sydney doesn't know is that she is the particular interest of two opposing forces. With deceit, fear, and warfare surrounding her—can she trust the party that aims to help with her fight against the other? Can she open her heart to receive and return unexpected love? When her sister’s life becomes jeopardized, Sydney will have to weigh a new love against the only enduring love she has known. The cost could be deadly�
How will she choose?
Clean Teen Publishing's Content Levels (Out of 4):
Violence: 4
Language: 3
Romance/Sensuality: 1
Drugs/Alcohol/Smoking: 3
346 pages, Paperback
First published May 17, 2012
188 people are currently reading
1,457 people want to read
About the author
Gabrielle Arrowsmith
5Ìýbooks146ÌýfollowersGabrielle Arrowsmith grew up in a small town in Minnesota enjoying school, soccer, reading, playing piano, and endless adventures with her brother and cousins. As a young child, Gabrielle’s desire to write led her to fill many diaries and notebooks with her thoughts, poems, stories, and scripts.
Gabrielle recalls first believing in the worth of her writing in high school, where her advanced language and literature coursework both challenged and celebrated her craft.
From 2006-2009, Gabrielle attended St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN where she earned a degree in Elementary Education.
Gabrielle is currently teaching and pursuing her passion for storytelling through writing and acting. She enjoys reading, watching movies, listening to and playing music, playing and coaching soccer, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.
Gabrielle recalls first believing in the worth of her writing in high school, where her advanced language and literature coursework both challenged and celebrated her craft.
From 2006-2009, Gabrielle attended St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN where she earned a degree in Elementary Education.
Gabrielle is currently teaching and pursuing her passion for storytelling through writing and acting. She enjoys reading, watching movies, listening to and playing music, playing and coaching soccer, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 69 reviews
May 8, 2013
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
THIS BOOK WAS AWESOME! It had that dystopian feel to it and it had action and adventure. It was filled with mystery and secrets, HUGE secrets. There was a minuscule amount of romance which I hope blosoms in the next book. The emotions were very powerful, I was tearing up a few times. Concealed in the Shadows is right up there with The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Uglies by Scott Westerfeld.
The characters were amazing! Sydney was an exceptional main character. She fought for what she believed in and she is so loyal. She is the best sister that Evvie could have asked for. She is so mature for her age, putting others before herself. Sydney has embraced the bad and tried to turn it good. She had a tough life and has made the best of it. She is a hero. Evvie is an intelligent and carefree young girl. She has an innocence about her that drew me in. She also has had a rough life but has dealt with what life throws her way. Crewe is a mysterious character, but he too has persevered through a lot and has made a better lif for himself. I can't wait to find out more about him as well as the other charcters.
When I started this book I couldn't have dreamed of how great it would be and how it would capture me heart. I fell in love with everything about this book and all of its characters. I would recommend this book to everyone. I wish I had the second book in my hand NOW!!! I will be going through withdrawals waiting for it. PLEASE PUBLISH BOOK 2 NOW!!!!
THIS BOOK WAS AWESOME! It had that dystopian feel to it and it had action and adventure. It was filled with mystery and secrets, HUGE secrets. There was a minuscule amount of romance which I hope blosoms in the next book. The emotions were very powerful, I was tearing up a few times. Concealed in the Shadows is right up there with The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Uglies by Scott Westerfeld.
The characters were amazing! Sydney was an exceptional main character. She fought for what she believed in and she is so loyal. She is the best sister that Evvie could have asked for. She is so mature for her age, putting others before herself. Sydney has embraced the bad and tried to turn it good. She had a tough life and has made the best of it. She is a hero. Evvie is an intelligent and carefree young girl. She has an innocence about her that drew me in. She also has had a rough life but has dealt with what life throws her way. Crewe is a mysterious character, but he too has persevered through a lot and has made a better lif for himself. I can't wait to find out more about him as well as the other charcters.
When I started this book I couldn't have dreamed of how great it would be and how it would capture me heart. I fell in love with everything about this book and all of its characters. I would recommend this book to everyone. I wish I had the second book in my hand NOW!!! I will be going through withdrawals waiting for it. PLEASE PUBLISH BOOK 2 NOW!!!!
March 8, 2013
Just finished this book and my heart is racing! I thought this was a stand alone book but it is definitely left hanging for a second book-- but don't let that deter you- read it!
Sydney is fighting to gain guardianship of her little sister in a new government controlled world. In the name of saving the environment the government has divided the United States into different zones or areas where everyone is forced to live. They have also set restrictions on the number of child-raising years someone is allowed to have leaving many kids often orphaned and left to the hands of an imperfect and corrupt foster care system.
Sydney is willing to do whatever it takes to protect herself and her sister, even if necessary risking their lives to escape.
The story quickly draws you in with twists and turns unfolding throughout the book.
There are also discussions in the book that make you reflect on societies dependence on technology and the loss of true interaction because of it.
This is what I call a "clean-book" meaning subject matter is a PG-13 level but it is clean of language and graphic sexual content. This would be a great books for teenagers and adults alike to read.
The only negative thing was the very first page of the book, it kind of felt like the author was trying to show her wide vocabulary expanse and had an almost overuse of complex words, to the point where I noticed it and it stood out-- but after the first page she seemed to get over this and the rest read wonderfully.
Sydney is fighting to gain guardianship of her little sister in a new government controlled world. In the name of saving the environment the government has divided the United States into different zones or areas where everyone is forced to live. They have also set restrictions on the number of child-raising years someone is allowed to have leaving many kids often orphaned and left to the hands of an imperfect and corrupt foster care system.
Sydney is willing to do whatever it takes to protect herself and her sister, even if necessary risking their lives to escape.
The story quickly draws you in with twists and turns unfolding throughout the book.
There are also discussions in the book that make you reflect on societies dependence on technology and the loss of true interaction because of it.
This is what I call a "clean-book" meaning subject matter is a PG-13 level but it is clean of language and graphic sexual content. This would be a great books for teenagers and adults alike to read.
The only negative thing was the very first page of the book, it kind of felt like the author was trying to show her wide vocabulary expanse and had an almost overuse of complex words, to the point where I noticed it and it stood out-- but after the first page she seemed to get over this and the rest read wonderfully.
May 16, 2013
Loved this YA Dystopian!
May 25, 2013
I was given an Advance Release Copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was never a huge fan of Dystopian style novels until about a year ago. Two amazing authors had me review their third novel which happened to be the first in a Dystopian YA series. After that I decided to branch out a little bit and try out some other novels of the same genre and read The Hunger Games. What I now love about these types of books are all of the many places the genre allows an author to go. I have read many in the genre up to this point, and I have to say that Concealed in the Shadows has to be my favorite. Gabrielle Arrowsmith has taken what our society obsesses over today - media - 30 years into the future.
The United States has completely changed after the third World War started, though no one seems to even realize that anything is going on outside of their own county. Everyone is glued to their government issued tablets, which seem to have replaced the smart phone completely - Gasp! What is most shocking is the way she created a society that revolves around information media so much so that they do not realize anything going on around them.
There is one specific part near the beginning of the novel where Sydney and her sister are traveling to their hostel, carrying luggage that is too large and heavy to navigate with themselves, and no one even looks up at them. No one notices that two young women are struggling with anything - no help is offered, no eyelashes are batted in their direction. This is the norm on the inside of the counties. Now, without revealing too many spoilers, there is a section in the story that Sydney gets to experience what it is like to be on the outside. She learns that humanity does still exist. While walking down the street people actually smile at her. Some stop and say hello or introduce themselves.
That is one of my favorite sides to this amazing story. Arrowsmith paints a picture of what out world could actually turn into if we continue to rely on all of our technological addictions. She really makes you wonder if this is where we can be in thirty years.
All of that aside, this book is wonderful. It is very detailed, but not to the point it is over done. I was hooked before I had even finished chapter one, which is something that usually does not happen for me. I feel in love with the characters, each and every one of them - even the few who were a bit annoying (on purpose not because of poor character development!). And the cliff hanger! Oh, the cliff hanger! Of the many series I have read, the end of this story was by far the best ending we could have asked for; although many of you will more than likely be angry because it truly is an ending that leaves you sitting on the edge of your seat in suspense, just to be ripped away from the world you were drawn into without knowing what is going to happen. I could not even guess what was going to happen throughout the entire book.
I cannot wait for the next installment of this series, which I am sure is going to be just as brilliant, if not more!
I was never a huge fan of Dystopian style novels until about a year ago. Two amazing authors had me review their third novel which happened to be the first in a Dystopian YA series. After that I decided to branch out a little bit and try out some other novels of the same genre and read The Hunger Games. What I now love about these types of books are all of the many places the genre allows an author to go. I have read many in the genre up to this point, and I have to say that Concealed in the Shadows has to be my favorite. Gabrielle Arrowsmith has taken what our society obsesses over today - media - 30 years into the future.
The United States has completely changed after the third World War started, though no one seems to even realize that anything is going on outside of their own county. Everyone is glued to their government issued tablets, which seem to have replaced the smart phone completely - Gasp! What is most shocking is the way she created a society that revolves around information media so much so that they do not realize anything going on around them.
There is one specific part near the beginning of the novel where Sydney and her sister are traveling to their hostel, carrying luggage that is too large and heavy to navigate with themselves, and no one even looks up at them. No one notices that two young women are struggling with anything - no help is offered, no eyelashes are batted in their direction. This is the norm on the inside of the counties. Now, without revealing too many spoilers, there is a section in the story that Sydney gets to experience what it is like to be on the outside. She learns that humanity does still exist. While walking down the street people actually smile at her. Some stop and say hello or introduce themselves.
That is one of my favorite sides to this amazing story. Arrowsmith paints a picture of what out world could actually turn into if we continue to rely on all of our technological addictions. She really makes you wonder if this is where we can be in thirty years.
All of that aside, this book is wonderful. It is very detailed, but not to the point it is over done. I was hooked before I had even finished chapter one, which is something that usually does not happen for me. I feel in love with the characters, each and every one of them - even the few who were a bit annoying (on purpose not because of poor character development!). And the cliff hanger! Oh, the cliff hanger! Of the many series I have read, the end of this story was by far the best ending we could have asked for; although many of you will more than likely be angry because it truly is an ending that leaves you sitting on the edge of your seat in suspense, just to be ripped away from the world you were drawn into without knowing what is going to happen. I could not even guess what was going to happen throughout the entire book.
I cannot wait for the next installment of this series, which I am sure is going to be just as brilliant, if not more!
February 20, 2013
I am so glad that I was able to be part of this blog tour. I was introduced to a great book. Concealed in the Shadows is a dystopian based book with some futuristic tendencies. Sydney has been part of a "country" her whole life. The remaining parts of the country have been sectioned off into these countries. Wherever you were at the time the countries were created is where you had to stay. Families were split up. Sydney has put up with the way things are for a long time. Her childhood was not the best. Her father died when she was young and her mother had some psych issues and died at a young age as well. Her sister Evvie is finally going to be old enough to live with her sister now. Sydney loves her sister so much. She will do anything for her. Before, Sydney was able to get Evvie she spent a lot of time outside the wall. She had it down to a science to get out over the wall. They have to be so careful because they are always being watched. Their chips tracking their every movement.
Sydney takes Evvie over the wall once. What they don't know is that they are also being watched. And not by the people inside the wall but, those who are outside of it. There are things going on that the people living inside the wall don't know about. There may be alternatives way to live. Where you are truly free to live your life with your family. When Sydney goes out for her daily run outside the wall she is taken. She is taken by people that actually turn out to be great. They have removed their chips and are actually living freely outside the wall. She quickly realizes that her sister, left alone behind the wall, may try to cross since Sydney didn't return home. Her and her now kind of friends go to try to rescue Evvie. They find it odd that they met no resistance. There is more going on behind the scenes then the sisters are in for. There is a conspiracy brewing that involves people they knew to be dead.
There are of course some cute boys in this book too! I was more into Crewe then his brother Cy. The Davids brothers are a double threat. There is romance in this book but, it is subtle. There are serious things happening. It is more like real life then your typical teen love story. I don't want to get into to much about these two other then they are both like super hero's. Willing to do anything for the ones they love and their community to keep them safe.
Concealed in the Shadows is an amazing dystopian full of mystery and secrets. It is not the typical YA book that you see out there. It is an amazing book and I would highly recommended it!
Sydney takes Evvie over the wall once. What they don't know is that they are also being watched. And not by the people inside the wall but, those who are outside of it. There are things going on that the people living inside the wall don't know about. There may be alternatives way to live. Where you are truly free to live your life with your family. When Sydney goes out for her daily run outside the wall she is taken. She is taken by people that actually turn out to be great. They have removed their chips and are actually living freely outside the wall. She quickly realizes that her sister, left alone behind the wall, may try to cross since Sydney didn't return home. Her and her now kind of friends go to try to rescue Evvie. They find it odd that they met no resistance. There is more going on behind the scenes then the sisters are in for. There is a conspiracy brewing that involves people they knew to be dead.
There are of course some cute boys in this book too! I was more into Crewe then his brother Cy. The Davids brothers are a double threat. There is romance in this book but, it is subtle. There are serious things happening. It is more like real life then your typical teen love story. I don't want to get into to much about these two other then they are both like super hero's. Willing to do anything for the ones they love and their community to keep them safe.
Concealed in the Shadows is an amazing dystopian full of mystery and secrets. It is not the typical YA book that you see out there. It is an amazing book and I would highly recommended it!
September 3, 2013
Original review posted on Gin's Book Notes ()
Concealed in the Shadows is a young adult dystopian story that begins in the year, 2033; the year that our main character, Sydney Harter, turns 18 and is legally able to petition the court for custody of her 14 year old sister, Evvie.
The future world that the author creates is controlled by technology and was established by a 2015 population bill that disunited the United States and split it into counties and sectors. The proposed purpose of this reformation is to save the world from destruction by controlling the population and how they interact with the environment and each other. Terrible restrictions and laws are put into place and very quickly the basic concept of humanity is lost.
The beginning of the story was a little slow for me. It is a lot of backstory for Sydney and the world she is living in and it didn’t really grab me until chapter ten. Once I hit that point I was reading every chance I had to see what would happen next. I enjoyed that there were several surprise moments in the story; some big things happened that I didn’t see coming at all. There were a few moments when my eyes became a little misty and there were several times that I had to stop reading and think about the consequences of the world that Gabrielle Arrowsmith had created.
By the end of the book I was fully vested in the lives of Sydney and Evvie Harter and the people they connected with throughout the story. I would have loved a happy ending for them but as with all first books in a series that story is yet to come. Yes, I’m an eternal optimist; I chose to believe that by the end of this series their story will end on a “and they lived happily ever after� note.
So, to summarize. I really liked Concealed in the Shadows and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. There is a lot of action, emotion, and mystery in this book, a tiny hint at a possible future romance. I found the overall message to be one of hope, sacrifice, and perseverance. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Concealed in the Shadows is a young adult dystopian story that begins in the year, 2033; the year that our main character, Sydney Harter, turns 18 and is legally able to petition the court for custody of her 14 year old sister, Evvie.
The future world that the author creates is controlled by technology and was established by a 2015 population bill that disunited the United States and split it into counties and sectors. The proposed purpose of this reformation is to save the world from destruction by controlling the population and how they interact with the environment and each other. Terrible restrictions and laws are put into place and very quickly the basic concept of humanity is lost.
The beginning of the story was a little slow for me. It is a lot of backstory for Sydney and the world she is living in and it didn’t really grab me until chapter ten. Once I hit that point I was reading every chance I had to see what would happen next. I enjoyed that there were several surprise moments in the story; some big things happened that I didn’t see coming at all. There were a few moments when my eyes became a little misty and there were several times that I had to stop reading and think about the consequences of the world that Gabrielle Arrowsmith had created.
By the end of the book I was fully vested in the lives of Sydney and Evvie Harter and the people they connected with throughout the story. I would have loved a happy ending for them but as with all first books in a series that story is yet to come. Yes, I’m an eternal optimist; I chose to believe that by the end of this series their story will end on a “and they lived happily ever after� note.
So, to summarize. I really liked Concealed in the Shadows and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. There is a lot of action, emotion, and mystery in this book, a tiny hint at a possible future romance. I found the overall message to be one of hope, sacrifice, and perseverance. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
May 21, 2013
Concealed In The Shadows is a book that will leave you breathless! Man this Dystopian genre is really starting to kick up because I never read that genre until my best reading buddy Kayleigh told me about it and now I am just simply hooked. I can't get enough of this genre and it feels like every new book I read it takes me on another journey. CITS had so much action and suspense and strong characters I could not put this book down.
Sydney has been patiently waiting on her eighteenth birthday which is September 12. She is excited because she will be turning 18 and she will also be able to apply for guardianship of her sister. Her sister is all the family she has left and she wants to spend every waking moment with her. If they do not give her guardianship she has decided she will try and run even though she knows she won't make it far because she has a chip in here that will shock her if she tries to leave.
What Sydney doesn't know is that she is wanted by two sides albeit they are opposing sides. They want her for their own agenda and when they approach her she will have to figure out who to trust and who not to trust. She will also have to follow her gut because her sisters life is at stake. What is Sydney to do? Run or follow but if she follows who is she going to trust to follow?
Sydney has been patiently waiting on her eighteenth birthday which is September 12. She is excited because she will be turning 18 and she will also be able to apply for guardianship of her sister. Her sister is all the family she has left and she wants to spend every waking moment with her. If they do not give her guardianship she has decided she will try and run even though she knows she won't make it far because she has a chip in here that will shock her if she tries to leave.
What Sydney doesn't know is that she is wanted by two sides albeit they are opposing sides. They want her for their own agenda and when they approach her she will have to figure out who to trust and who not to trust. She will also have to follow her gut because her sisters life is at stake. What is Sydney to do? Run or follow but if she follows who is she going to trust to follow?
April 13, 2014
*I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review*
A new dystopian book that leaves you on the edge of your seat throughout the whole book. Fast paced, the characters develop so well and I took a liking to all of them. I felt so emotionally involved with all of them and that is hard to come by with me. Some unexpected twists that really surprise you, a bitter sweet end that leaves you hanging and wanting a sequel!! (fingers crossed). I did feel the author tried to use a lot of big words on the first page but once I got that behind me it was a really easy book to get into.
The idea of this new futuristic society is a different one and not one I have already read about. There are so many new novels in this genre it is hard to find something really new. This is really new! The restrictions and laws this society layed down result in an exciting story that is a must read. There are good transitions from the present writing to past looks at the characters memories :) Gabrielle Arrowsmith has done one hell of a job with this book and I can't wait for more :) x
A new dystopian book that leaves you on the edge of your seat throughout the whole book. Fast paced, the characters develop so well and I took a liking to all of them. I felt so emotionally involved with all of them and that is hard to come by with me. Some unexpected twists that really surprise you, a bitter sweet end that leaves you hanging and wanting a sequel!! (fingers crossed). I did feel the author tried to use a lot of big words on the first page but once I got that behind me it was a really easy book to get into.
The idea of this new futuristic society is a different one and not one I have already read about. There are so many new novels in this genre it is hard to find something really new. This is really new! The restrictions and laws this society layed down result in an exciting story that is a must read. There are good transitions from the present writing to past looks at the characters memories :) Gabrielle Arrowsmith has done one hell of a job with this book and I can't wait for more :) x
May 18, 2013
Gabrielle Arrowsmith
Concealed in the Shadows
If you love dystopian then this book is for you (and if you don't I still highly recommend it). Without a doubt, you will fall in love with the story line, the characters and the emotion portrayed is so intense at times. From start to finish I was completely transfixed and just didn't want to stop reading. The book is so well written, with great character development that it drew me and wouldn't let go. Sydney and Evvie's relationship and upbringing will pull on your heartstrings, then when Cy and Crewe are introduced, the story took on a completely new level. With some shocking twists this book is not one I am going to forget, now I just have to patiently wait for the next book.
I received an e-copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
Concealed in the Shadows
If you love dystopian then this book is for you (and if you don't I still highly recommend it). Without a doubt, you will fall in love with the story line, the characters and the emotion portrayed is so intense at times. From start to finish I was completely transfixed and just didn't want to stop reading. The book is so well written, with great character development that it drew me and wouldn't let go. Sydney and Evvie's relationship and upbringing will pull on your heartstrings, then when Cy and Crewe are introduced, the story took on a completely new level. With some shocking twists this book is not one I am going to forget, now I just have to patiently wait for the next book.
I received an e-copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 23, 2014
Usually when I finish a book I am ready to jump right on and give my opinion about it ... but not this time. This book made me stop and think because how do I say what I think needs to be said without giving away vital spoilers.
The answer turned out to be that the very thing I was moaning about in a friend's review is going to happen here. All I can say is there is a cliffhanger and that there are events that you won't see coming. Anything else would ruin what I feel are events that need to be experienced as you read it.
Concealed in the Shadows is an excellently written, dystopian style YA novel that will make you think. It will make you question how much you rely on technology and how close in reality we are to events that appear in the story.
I highly recommend checking it out .... especially as it is FREE!! You can't ask for better than that!
V""V
The answer turned out to be that the very thing I was moaning about in a friend's review is going to happen here. All I can say is there is a cliffhanger and that there are events that you won't see coming. Anything else would ruin what I feel are events that need to be experienced as you read it.
Concealed in the Shadows is an excellently written, dystopian style YA novel that will make you think. It will make you question how much you rely on technology and how close in reality we are to events that appear in the story.
I highly recommend checking it out .... especially as it is FREE!! You can't ask for better than that!
V""V
April 29, 2014
So fast-paced I could not put it down; read this until 3 a.m. to finish it. There's a second volume...
August 22, 2017
"The shadows are growing longer"
Another new genre for me to explore. The dystopian elements aside, this is a rambling tale, that doesn't become exciting, and suspenseful early enough. I battled through the myriad pages, but two more books in the series to plough through to get a firm conclusion, proved too much for me.
Another new genre for me to explore. The dystopian elements aside, this is a rambling tale, that doesn't become exciting, and suspenseful early enough. I battled through the myriad pages, but two more books in the series to plough through to get a firm conclusion, proved too much for me.
December 27, 2024
I'm a sucker for all YA dystopian :) Great read! I enjoy the world building. Sydney may get on my nerves, but I'm ready for the next! If offered ;)
July 10, 2013
I was given this book by Clean Teen Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Gabrielle Arrowsmith's "Concealed in the Shadows" was amazing! My first thought, "The Hunger Games" with a science twist brought into the mix.
Sydney has waited years in order to gain custody of her sister. But a strange twist of events introduces her to a whole different world.
The first thought I had when I read this was here goes another Hunger Games. Don't get me wrong I love dystopian end of the world books, but I feel that authors are having a hard time making them unique. Arrowsmith was able to bring in real characters to a unique, and strikingly similar world to ours. When I first started reading this book I had a hard time getting into it. The author was able to captivate me, but the story didn't get going until 40-50% into the book. I think that more action needed to be introduced into the story. The history and the lives of the sisters was nice to have, but it could have been brought together in a smaller amount. I have to say I think the thing that captivated me the most in the story was how similar the world is to ours. Arrowsmith was able to use problems that we currently face and place it 20 years in the future when it can be deadly. She brought together a very realistic world with likable characters. Pick this one up and enjoy the world.
Here are some of my favorite quotes, and quotes that shocked me, from "Concealed in the Shadows":
-This is just one piece of the finely printed details of the 2015 bill to contain population growth.
-Believing that freedom of speech exists is a costly mistake.
-Bur then out president and the other people that help make laws decided that as people get older, they begin to cost too much money.
-The government had their hand in the death of my grandma by way of an appallingly agreed upon law that forces the elderly to be euthanized on a randomly drawn date suing their sixtieth year.
-Speech is only free through the costly risk of crossing the barrier to anywhere but here.
-The government can also remote abort certain pregnancies.
-Not one of them is tied to a tablet, zoned into a game, film, or music video. None of them are in the middle of a video chat, TabFile update, or online auction. They're simply with each other, happily talking. I have the utmost respect for them for understanding that being human is about being truly present with one another.
-Either way, I have two minutes until the end of my life begins.
Gabrielle Arrowsmith's "Concealed in the Shadows" was amazing! My first thought, "The Hunger Games" with a science twist brought into the mix.
Sydney has waited years in order to gain custody of her sister. But a strange twist of events introduces her to a whole different world.
The first thought I had when I read this was here goes another Hunger Games. Don't get me wrong I love dystopian end of the world books, but I feel that authors are having a hard time making them unique. Arrowsmith was able to bring in real characters to a unique, and strikingly similar world to ours. When I first started reading this book I had a hard time getting into it. The author was able to captivate me, but the story didn't get going until 40-50% into the book. I think that more action needed to be introduced into the story. The history and the lives of the sisters was nice to have, but it could have been brought together in a smaller amount. I have to say I think the thing that captivated me the most in the story was how similar the world is to ours. Arrowsmith was able to use problems that we currently face and place it 20 years in the future when it can be deadly. She brought together a very realistic world with likable characters. Pick this one up and enjoy the world.
Here are some of my favorite quotes, and quotes that shocked me, from "Concealed in the Shadows":
-This is just one piece of the finely printed details of the 2015 bill to contain population growth.
-Believing that freedom of speech exists is a costly mistake.
-Bur then out president and the other people that help make laws decided that as people get older, they begin to cost too much money.
-The government had their hand in the death of my grandma by way of an appallingly agreed upon law that forces the elderly to be euthanized on a randomly drawn date suing their sixtieth year.
-Speech is only free through the costly risk of crossing the barrier to anywhere but here.
-The government can also remote abort certain pregnancies.
-Not one of them is tied to a tablet, zoned into a game, film, or music video. None of them are in the middle of a video chat, TabFile update, or online auction. They're simply with each other, happily talking. I have the utmost respect for them for understanding that being human is about being truly present with one another.
-Either way, I have two minutes until the end of my life begins.
March 2, 2014
Concealed in the Shadows is the first book in a new series and takes place in the not too distant future. It is a wonderfully crafted novel with superb world building and characters that are relatable, as well as likable. I found myself sucked in from the very beginning and I could hardly stand it when I had to put it down; time not allowing to sit and just read it all the way through to the end. The United States has broken and is now divided into about thirteen separate counties. Lives have been uprooted; people removed from their homes and forced to live in counties separated from loved ones who were not with them at the time of the separation. Life and death, as well as personal liberties, is strictly regulated all under the guise of saving the Earth's natural resources. People are not allowed to leave the county they are placed in, elderly are euthanized and a set age, the number of children in a household is also regulated and if orphaned children are placed in orphanages or foster homes rather than with their surviving relatives. In this installment we follow the journey of Sydney Harter, a young woman who has just turned eighteen and applied for full custody of her younger sister. This is a heartbreaking tale and I will admit I shed quite a few tears in the reading. Sydney is a wonderful character who is very mature for her age with a good head on her shoulders and not one to run off willy-nilly to get her own way, but willing to listen to reason and think her actions through first. This is not a tale of sweetness and light, but is rather dark in the circumstances she faces, as well as a bit frightening with the what-if of the tale not being too farfetched from the realm of possibility. The ending is significant and could be termed a bit of a cliffhanger, resulting in my immediate investigation into whether there was more to come or if this was it. Fortunately I found book two is now available, having just been released, and I am chomping at the bit to read it. I would definitely recommend this read for those who have an interest in the dystopian genre. I won a copy of this book in a giveaway, but also picked up my own copy from Smashwords.
June 5, 2013
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sydney's been waiting for her 18th birthday for a long time. It's a special day for her, as it's the day she can apply for guardianship of her sister. The world's different from how we know it after Congress separated the nation and laid down the law on population growth, and all Sydney wants is to reunite with her sister and hopefully escape from Miles County. However, as always happens, there's a kink in the plan, and things go awry fairly quickly for poor Sydney. How will she handle all the new information being thrown at her? What will become of her and her sister? And what is she to do about these strange new feelings for a man she barely knows?
First things first: This cover just grabbed me from the very start. I felt like her eyes were seeing right through me, and I couldn't wait to read about the person depicted in the picture. Sydney's a strong young woman, having been through more in her 18 years than most people see and endure in a couple lifetimes. However, she's done it all to help her sister Evvie survive in this world, and now she's fighting to be her sole guardian. The relationship between the two, and the way the bond is described that Sydney has for Evvie, was a very palpable thing. I could just sit back and picture the two going through life, Sydney always a couple steps ahead, checking to make sure everything was perfect for her little sister. But, the world is a much different place, and Sydney soon learns that things aren't always what they seem. I might consider this book somewhat dystopian, rather similar to Hunger Games, in that it's a futuristic setting (although not too distant) where the government has seized control and divided the nation into much smaller, easier-to-manage portions. It's a very intriguing premise, and I'm anxious to see what happens next for Sydney and Evvie.
4 1/2 stars
Sydney's been waiting for her 18th birthday for a long time. It's a special day for her, as it's the day she can apply for guardianship of her sister. The world's different from how we know it after Congress separated the nation and laid down the law on population growth, and all Sydney wants is to reunite with her sister and hopefully escape from Miles County. However, as always happens, there's a kink in the plan, and things go awry fairly quickly for poor Sydney. How will she handle all the new information being thrown at her? What will become of her and her sister? And what is she to do about these strange new feelings for a man she barely knows?
First things first: This cover just grabbed me from the very start. I felt like her eyes were seeing right through me, and I couldn't wait to read about the person depicted in the picture. Sydney's a strong young woman, having been through more in her 18 years than most people see and endure in a couple lifetimes. However, she's done it all to help her sister Evvie survive in this world, and now she's fighting to be her sole guardian. The relationship between the two, and the way the bond is described that Sydney has for Evvie, was a very palpable thing. I could just sit back and picture the two going through life, Sydney always a couple steps ahead, checking to make sure everything was perfect for her little sister. But, the world is a much different place, and Sydney soon learns that things aren't always what they seem. I might consider this book somewhat dystopian, rather similar to Hunger Games, in that it's a futuristic setting (although not too distant) where the government has seized control and divided the nation into much smaller, easier-to-manage portions. It's a very intriguing premise, and I'm anxious to see what happens next for Sydney and Evvie.
4 1/2 stars
May 2, 2014
Dystopian themed novels are very popular in the YA market right now. Some are good and some are not so good. So, when I read the summary for " Concealed in the Shadows" I approached it cautiously. However, since the book is currently being offered for free on Amazon.com, I decided I had nothing to lose.
I am happy to say, I was pleasantly surprised. This book is very good. Sydney Harter turns eighteen today and finally she can apply for guardianship of her fourteen year old sister, Evvie. Debbie is currently living in foster care but her foster mother's sister recently passed away and she needs to adopt one of her two daughters. In a society where you can only have two kids, Evvie will need to go live with her sister or go back into the system.
Luckily, the courts grant guardianship to Sydney. Yet, after one day, Evvie is eager to get her sister alone and away from the prying ears of the government. She informs Sydney that she stumbled upon information that their mother may not be dead after all, however, little do either of them know but the have both been implanted with audio microchips.
As Sydney ventures beyond the walls and surveillance of her city, she discovers a community she never knew existed. However, her short lived freedom will put someone she loves in jeopardy and someone is going to die.
There is plenty of action, intrigue, great world building and an interesting plot in this little gem of a read. My only complaint is that this book is in serious need of good editing. There are too many capitalization mistakes and spelling errors. In my experience, editing issues is the biggest problem plaguing the self publishing world. Hopefully, book two will eliminate some of these issues.
I am happy to say, I was pleasantly surprised. This book is very good. Sydney Harter turns eighteen today and finally she can apply for guardianship of her fourteen year old sister, Evvie. Debbie is currently living in foster care but her foster mother's sister recently passed away and she needs to adopt one of her two daughters. In a society where you can only have two kids, Evvie will need to go live with her sister or go back into the system.
Luckily, the courts grant guardianship to Sydney. Yet, after one day, Evvie is eager to get her sister alone and away from the prying ears of the government. She informs Sydney that she stumbled upon information that their mother may not be dead after all, however, little do either of them know but the have both been implanted with audio microchips.
As Sydney ventures beyond the walls and surveillance of her city, she discovers a community she never knew existed. However, her short lived freedom will put someone she loves in jeopardy and someone is going to die.
There is plenty of action, intrigue, great world building and an interesting plot in this little gem of a read. My only complaint is that this book is in serious need of good editing. There are too many capitalization mistakes and spelling errors. In my experience, editing issues is the biggest problem plaguing the self publishing world. Hopefully, book two will eliminate some of these issues.
August 1, 2013
Concealed in Shadows is a amazing story one I couldn't put down for a second! I loved every heartstopping second of Sydney and Evelette Harter's life. Gabrielle Arrowsmith is a superb writer who takes you on a wild ride of intrigue and adventure.
Sydney Harter has lived a crappy life full of foster care, abuse and a mental unstable mother who was full of Conspiracy theories and left raising Evvie up to Sydney. These things are nothing new in Miles county where chips in the wrist and electric fences keep everyone in and foster kids get beaten or go missing into an underground world and the government turns a blind eye.Today is Sydney's 18th birthday and the day she will hopefully get full custody of Evvie and save her from a Miles county fate.
Sydney life takes a spiralling turn when she is abducted by two strange men on her daily run and knocked unconscious, when she awakes she doesn't know who she is or where she is. The men who took her swear that they were only trying to free her from the troubles of Miles county. She doesn't know who to believe, and worse yet how to figure out who she is.
With a sister she can't remember still trapped inside and strangers she doesn't know on the outside Sydney isn't sure who to trust but one things for sure, she is going to do her best to get her memory back cause not knowing who you are sucks, big time.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and the immense heart each and every one of them had. My favourite was Crewe, he was so brave, loving, funny and selfless.
I can't wait to read more of this story as it is an incredible read! and if you haven't read it yet you must get yours NOW!
Sydney Harter has lived a crappy life full of foster care, abuse and a mental unstable mother who was full of Conspiracy theories and left raising Evvie up to Sydney. These things are nothing new in Miles county where chips in the wrist and electric fences keep everyone in and foster kids get beaten or go missing into an underground world and the government turns a blind eye.Today is Sydney's 18th birthday and the day she will hopefully get full custody of Evvie and save her from a Miles county fate.
Sydney life takes a spiralling turn when she is abducted by two strange men on her daily run and knocked unconscious, when she awakes she doesn't know who she is or where she is. The men who took her swear that they were only trying to free her from the troubles of Miles county. She doesn't know who to believe, and worse yet how to figure out who she is.
With a sister she can't remember still trapped inside and strangers she doesn't know on the outside Sydney isn't sure who to trust but one things for sure, she is going to do her best to get her memory back cause not knowing who you are sucks, big time.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and the immense heart each and every one of them had. My favourite was Crewe, he was so brave, loving, funny and selfless.
I can't wait to read more of this story as it is an incredible read! and if you haven't read it yet you must get yours NOW!
March 25, 2014
This story travels along at breakneck speed, pausing just often enough for the reader to catch a breath before the next dramatic twist. Set in the near future, this is a dystopian tale with style. The main character, Sydney, although only just eighteen, has had a lot to deal with in her short life. The loss of her father, presumed dead and then her mother’s insanity left her taking responsibility for her younger sister, until the authorities found out. When, on her 18th birthday, she can finally apply for permanent guardianship, she is determined to do all she can to be reunited with Evelette. In the meantime and in order to keep a grip on her own emotions, she frequently flees Miles County to escape the all-seeing eyes of the leadership, unaware that she is being watched by not only the powers-that-be at Miles County, but also by interested parties in the so-called ‘outside world�. What develops is a fast-paced sequence of unexpected events that blight Sydney’s plans to care for her sister and lead to them being separated on more than one occasion. Her sense of responsibility, however, forces Sydney to choose to face the authorities alone if she can save her sister. As she finally seems to find happiness within herself, she is torn in two as she makes the brave decision to sacrifice herself for Evelette. The next story in the series is eagerly anticipated to provide the answers to the reader’s ever-growing list of questions. I can only hope that it comes out very soon :)
A great read, hugely entertaining and exciting, full of believable characters with real emotions � sometimes painfully real! Definitely one to watch out for.
A great read, hugely entertaining and exciting, full of believable characters with real emotions � sometimes painfully real! Definitely one to watch out for.
September 12, 2016
This is one of the better written dystopian stories out there, in my opinion. It had sort of a Legend feel with some other things mixed in. The main character, Sydney, is sometimes too smart for her own good and she tends to act before thinking, but she's an eighteen year old girl. We've all been there.
The storyline is set in 2033 when the United States has been replaced by an unpleasant government that seeks to control human population and has different sections caged in so that outsiders cannot come in and insiders cannot leave. Fortunately for Sydney, she has found a way out, but she doesn't want to leave until she has guardianship over her little sister, Evvie. Unfortunately, she does not think much about her microchip's GPS capabilities and ends up with the black-ops on her tail.
Once outside, Sydney discovers a pleasant atmosphere. It isn't technologically advanced like the county she escaped from, but people actually have humanity left in them and treat each other with kindness. Her happiness is short lived when the black-ops figure out where she and her sister are hiding. Sydney must work together with her new found friends to try and find a way to stay safe from the county government.
Along the way, there are some surprises and mysteries that develop that keep the book entertaining and action-packed throughout every page. I did not want to stop reading once I had started this. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the series because this one ended in a cliffhanger that kept me wanting more.
The storyline is set in 2033 when the United States has been replaced by an unpleasant government that seeks to control human population and has different sections caged in so that outsiders cannot come in and insiders cannot leave. Fortunately for Sydney, she has found a way out, but she doesn't want to leave until she has guardianship over her little sister, Evvie. Unfortunately, she does not think much about her microchip's GPS capabilities and ends up with the black-ops on her tail.
Once outside, Sydney discovers a pleasant atmosphere. It isn't technologically advanced like the county she escaped from, but people actually have humanity left in them and treat each other with kindness. Her happiness is short lived when the black-ops figure out where she and her sister are hiding. Sydney must work together with her new found friends to try and find a way to stay safe from the county government.
Along the way, there are some surprises and mysteries that develop that keep the book entertaining and action-packed throughout every page. I did not want to stop reading once I had started this. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the series because this one ended in a cliffhanger that kept me wanting more.
June 7, 2013
I came across this book purely by accident and decided to look into it. I am so glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Sydney lives in a dystopian world where every move you make is monitored by a chip implant. A world where the government has put laws in place to control population growth, with disastrous results. A world where the government decides that at the age of 60, your life ends.
Sydney’s main aim in life was to apply for legal guardianship of her sister Evvie who was in foster care. The day she turned 18 she was awarded the guardianship, but before she could get used to having Evvie around, they were separated once again � in the most awful way possible.
The story follows Sydney as she tries to come to terms with the fact that she has once again been separated from her sister and how she, and the people who ‘abducted� her, plan on getting Evvie out of the oppressive County and into the freedom of living outside the county lines.
I loved the characters in this story and cried at one point (yeah). I was also fascinated by the world they lived in and how it got to be the way it was. What was also very interesting is how some people are quite happy being sheep and being led, and how others crave freedom and the lengths they will go to, to be free.
This was a very, very interesting read, and I could not put this book down � it is a great story.
I look forward to the next book by this very talented author.
Sydney lives in a dystopian world where every move you make is monitored by a chip implant. A world where the government has put laws in place to control population growth, with disastrous results. A world where the government decides that at the age of 60, your life ends.
Sydney’s main aim in life was to apply for legal guardianship of her sister Evvie who was in foster care. The day she turned 18 she was awarded the guardianship, but before she could get used to having Evvie around, they were separated once again � in the most awful way possible.
The story follows Sydney as she tries to come to terms with the fact that she has once again been separated from her sister and how she, and the people who ‘abducted� her, plan on getting Evvie out of the oppressive County and into the freedom of living outside the county lines.
I loved the characters in this story and cried at one point (yeah). I was also fascinated by the world they lived in and how it got to be the way it was. What was also very interesting is how some people are quite happy being sheep and being led, and how others crave freedom and the lengths they will go to, to be free.
This was a very, very interesting read, and I could not put this book down � it is a great story.
I look forward to the next book by this very talented author.
August 18, 2013
I have always LOVED every dystopian novel, from Fahrenheit 451 to the futuristic book Ender's Game, and it doesn't stop with the new inclusions of The Hunger Games series and now Concealed in the Shadows! When I first heard about this book I knew I was going to like it.
Concealed in the Shadows tells a story of an older sister, Sydney, who lives in a future society of the former United States of America that is overly controlled by the new high-tech government. She was born at the start of the push of technology and yearns for her and her younger sister, Evvie, to live outside of the boundaries they are restricted to. She is loyal to her sister and will do anything to give her a better life, even if it means sacrificing her own freedom!
Gabrielle Arrowsmith does a phenomenal job pulling you in with the intense detail to how the main character feels with every decision that is pressing on her. I felt myself getting nervous and stressed whenever the main character was nervous and stressed, and empathetic with the hardships.
I can NOT wait to read the next book when it is released and will always be looking for books by Gabrielle Arrowsmith in the future given that this was her FIRST one! WOW! I'll just have to read it again while I wait...
Concealed in the Shadows tells a story of an older sister, Sydney, who lives in a future society of the former United States of America that is overly controlled by the new high-tech government. She was born at the start of the push of technology and yearns for her and her younger sister, Evvie, to live outside of the boundaries they are restricted to. She is loyal to her sister and will do anything to give her a better life, even if it means sacrificing her own freedom!
Gabrielle Arrowsmith does a phenomenal job pulling you in with the intense detail to how the main character feels with every decision that is pressing on her. I felt myself getting nervous and stressed whenever the main character was nervous and stressed, and empathetic with the hardships.
I can NOT wait to read the next book when it is released and will always be looking for books by Gabrielle Arrowsmith in the future given that this was her FIRST one! WOW! I'll just have to read it again while I wait...
July 1, 2013
Arrowsmith takes the reader on a tumultuous emotional journey as she vividly describes the protagonist, Sydney's emotional attachment to her only living and real loved one. Little does she know, when she thought her greatest hurdle of regaining custody over her little sister was overcome, that it would only be the beginning of her perils.
This novel highlights the effortless love of two brave sisters. In their quest to find out the truth about their mother, they become encapsulated in a whole new world they thought could have never existed.
Their happiness, if there was any, was short-lived by the traumas of living in a time when the authorities have too much control over everything.
By the end of the book, Sydney and her sister become your friends. You feel for them both and realize ultimately the power of love, and the sacrifices that some are willing to make to protect their loved ones.
Arrowsmith truly embodies all the emotions we as humans feel and she brings to life her characters realistically and believably.
At the end, like any good book, Arrowsmith leaves you wanting more! Truly an amazing read!
This novel highlights the effortless love of two brave sisters. In their quest to find out the truth about their mother, they become encapsulated in a whole new world they thought could have never existed.
Their happiness, if there was any, was short-lived by the traumas of living in a time when the authorities have too much control over everything.
By the end of the book, Sydney and her sister become your friends. You feel for them both and realize ultimately the power of love, and the sacrifices that some are willing to make to protect their loved ones.
Arrowsmith truly embodies all the emotions we as humans feel and she brings to life her characters realistically and believably.
At the end, like any good book, Arrowsmith leaves you wanting more! Truly an amazing read!
September 3, 2016
This is a good, dystopian book. It’s hard for me to come across a dystopian that I really like these days. It does not matter if it’s YA or Adult, there is something about a good dystopian. You can’t just throw in a few characters and add in a bunch of rules, places, and actions. Gabrielle Arrowsmith gives you all of that, but with a great world to place it in. I love it! 2033 is near, so she did not go very far into the future in this world of hers.
It started off with me already wanting to know more, even though I was just on the first page. Sydney, our MC, is very smart. She has found a way to get the heck out of dodge, so to speak. But, she will not leave without her sister, and she has to wait until she turns 18 to get guardianship. She finds a sort of happiness(?) living on the outside, but that changes fairly quickly, with people after her. She does not know who to trust and with two different organizations after her, she has to make a choice or her sister is dead.
I must say again that this is a good book. If you like YA Dystopia, then this is a good book to act that genre.
It started off with me already wanting to know more, even though I was just on the first page. Sydney, our MC, is very smart. She has found a way to get the heck out of dodge, so to speak. But, she will not leave without her sister, and she has to wait until she turns 18 to get guardianship. She finds a sort of happiness(?) living on the outside, but that changes fairly quickly, with people after her. She does not know who to trust and with two different organizations after her, she has to make a choice or her sister is dead.
I must say again that this is a good book. If you like YA Dystopia, then this is a good book to act that genre.
March 18, 2014
Concealed in the Shadows is an awesome ride in a dystopian society where the population of the United States has been divided into county communities. It doesn't sound like a big deal until you find out that all rural communities have been disbanded and the residents forced to move to the county community where they are assigned. If you are unfortunate enough to be separated from family at the time of assignment, it is just your loss as you are permitted to move. The citizens are microchipped and the use of computer tablets are the only way to become educated. As far as socializing goes, most citizens could not care less. If they can't do it on their tablet, they don't seem interested to do it. This novel also has a very unique angle on the solution for population control. There are "parenting years" that the government keeps count of and a euthanasia law enforced when a person turns sixty years of age.
Concealed in the Shadows is a very riveting tale and I highly recommend it.
Concealed in the Shadows is a very riveting tale and I highly recommend it.
June 16, 2013
I was given this book for a honest review. I was drawn in Sydney's world as she fights for her sister and soon finds out that things are not as she seems. At every crossroad,twist,turn, this book kept me glued to my couch as Sydney finds out things the government doesn't want her to find out. As Sydney and her sister try and escape will they find what they are looking for? Will things from the past come forth and hamper Sydney's life even more? Will Sydney make the ultimate sacrifice that will save her sister? To find get your copy today....
Gabrielle Arrowsmith is so very talented author that will soon be having everyone cry for more so get your copy today and see for yourself. It will leave at a cliffhanger and wanting more. I can't wait till the next one comes out. Highly recommended.......
Gabrielle Arrowsmith is so very talented author that will soon be having everyone cry for more so get your copy today and see for yourself. It will leave at a cliffhanger and wanting more. I can't wait till the next one comes out. Highly recommended.......
September 5, 2016
I tried to like it. Okay, not really. The writing was horrible for a first person perspective. It seems the author was trying too hard to make the writing sound poetic, or perhaps was trying to write in prose, but when writing from a first person perspective it really doesn't work. At best, the main character seems out of touch with reality, at worst... Like a frickin' psycho. The writing also completely distracts from the story, making you focus on the actual words instead of putting the story together. I can't continue a book that makes me feel like I'm fighting a losing battle to burn my Kindle because I hate the writing so much. It seems like a lot of people liked the book, and good for them. I'm just not one of them. I love prose and poetic writing, just not in first person. Maybe it gets better farther along, but I can't stomach trying to get there.
May 27, 2013
I received a free advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It took me a wee while to get into this book (hence the 4 star not five star rating), I was about a third of the way through before it hooked me & wouldn't let go! I love end of the world-type books & this one is totally original. Sydney Harter is a strong lead character & is awe inspiring. The David brothers are totally cool & Cy is just the nicest guy, Crewe is a little darker & stronger. This book will put you through the ringer, emotional-wise, I was sobbing at some parts! Warning the book leaves you on a cliff-hanger & I can't wait to see what happens! An exciting start to a long series hopefully!!
It took me a wee while to get into this book (hence the 4 star not five star rating), I was about a third of the way through before it hooked me & wouldn't let go! I love end of the world-type books & this one is totally original. Sydney Harter is a strong lead character & is awe inspiring. The David brothers are totally cool & Cy is just the nicest guy, Crewe is a little darker & stronger. This book will put you through the ringer, emotional-wise, I was sobbing at some parts! Warning the book leaves you on a cliff-hanger & I can't wait to see what happens! An exciting start to a long series hopefully!!
June 4, 2013
Sidney lives in a world where everything, and I do mean everything, is being monitored.. From what you should think, how many kids you have, to when you die.
Living like this will only be worth it if she gets guardianship of her sister Evvie when Sydney turns 18.
This is a great read. I was pleasantly surprised since I am always skeptical when I pick up a dystopian novel. This novel delivers many twist and turns that I did not expect. I loved Sydney. She was strong and determined from the beginning. Despite the many obstacles her final goal is always the same. To save her Evvie . Secrets are uncovered, life as Sydney believed to it to be, may all have been a lie.
It definitely left me wanting more, what a cliffhanger so I hope Gabrielle is in the writing cave..
Living like this will only be worth it if she gets guardianship of her sister Evvie when Sydney turns 18.
This is a great read. I was pleasantly surprised since I am always skeptical when I pick up a dystopian novel. This novel delivers many twist and turns that I did not expect. I loved Sydney. She was strong and determined from the beginning. Despite the many obstacles her final goal is always the same. To save her Evvie . Secrets are uncovered, life as Sydney believed to it to be, may all have been a lie.
It definitely left me wanting more, what a cliffhanger so I hope Gabrielle is in the writing cave..
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