Reviewer: Andrea
I received a free copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
In a desperate attempt to escape destruction decades earlier, humankind was forced underground, into the depths of the earth, creating a new society called the Tri-Realms. 17-year-old Adele, a member of the middle-class moon dwellers, is unjustly sentenced to life in prison deep underground. When a war breaks out within the Tri-Realms, Adele must escape from prison and seek to uncover her parents’ true past, armed with only a wicked roundhouse kick and two fists that have been well-trained for combat by her father. In her world someone must die.
Review:
At first, I had a difficult time engaging with the story. Because it’s first-person POV (alternating between Adele and Tristan), there are some long internal monologues, and I found myself rereading. I liked the development of the society, but again, I found it tedious at times. It is my understanding this is not only book one of a series (The Dwellers Saga) but that the series will also merge with another series (The Country Saga), so I have a feeling all of that backstory will be important to the understanding of both series, and hardcore dystopian fans will love that.
I love, love, love the idea of a strong, FEMALE protagonist, which Adele is. However, sometimes, I felt she was a little too invincible, and I questioned her reactions in conjunction with her traits. She’s one tough cookie, not a bad trait at all, but I questioned how quickly her relationship developed with her companions (Tawni and Cole). Tristan sounds like every teenage girl’s dream, but I have some issues with him, too. I was frustrated with his perfection; however, I’ve got to admit I fell hook, line, and sinker for his rescue-the-damsel mentality and with his perfect, blonde curls. I just wish they would have met sooner in the novel so that we could see more of their interaction.
Despite my agitation that it took so long for Adele and Tristan to meet, Estes creates a fascinating world with a fantastic cliffhanger ending. Be warned, though! If you read this one, you’ll definitely want to read the next one.
