External Forces Deborah Rix

External Forces by Deborah Rix (Book 1) 3 STARS

Synopsis- It’s 100 years since the Genetic Integrity Act was passed and America closed its borders to prevent genetic contamination. Now only the enemy, dysgenic Deviants, remain beyond the heavily guarded border. The Department of Evolution carefully guides the creation of each generation and deviations from the divine plan are not permitted.
When 16-year-old Jess begins to show signs of deviance she enlists in the Special Forces, with her best friend Jay, in a desperate bid to evade detection by the Devotees. Jess is good with data, not so good with a knife. So when the handsome and secretive Sergeant Matt Anderson selects her for his Black Ops squad, Jess is determined to figure out why.
As her deviance continues to change her, Jess is forced to decide who to trust with her deadly secret. Jess needs to know what’s really out there, in the Deviant wasteland over the border, if she has any hope of making it to her 17th birthday. Because if the enemy doesn’t kill her first, the Department of Evolution probably will.
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review from net galley


Overall- I enjoyed this book generally and think its a good read for anyone who likes a strong female lead and little love and a lot of dystopian. Much like other trilogies, the first book in this series is a set up for the other two (likely) and the characters. The book was somewhat slow getting into the plot. I was confused about the mark and the idea of being deviant throughout the book, and I think it was decently explained. However, I think the book would have sufficed from a better explanation, providing more bits and pieces throughout the novel instead of just at the end. Additionally,  didnt like the ending. Specifically, I didnt like the explanation, or that it was so over the top. I knew there would be religious undertones given the synopsis, but this ending felt cult like. Nonetheless, I am interested in seeing where the story goes. It doesnt deter me from wanting to read the rest of the series, just annoys me a little. There were a few other minor issues I had with the book, but obviously nothing to impactful.

Cover --Interesting, but not great 
Rating: PG 13 
Overall: Good. 
Characters:  Matt, Jay, Jess
Page Turner: Sometimes
Series Cont.? Yes 
Book Boyfriend: Matt
Genre: Young Adult dystopian 
Sex Scenes: No
Setting Army of the "new america" dystopian world


Plot- The plot was a little slow for my liking. I kept wondering, where do we go from here. But I expect this in the first book. So I dont deduct too much for this. I was intrigued by Jess and her mark, as well asher relationship with Matt. I couldnt figure out whether he was using her or he liked her which is different from the usual. (the I like you but shouldnt be with you...) I liked the sub plot with Matt and the team and really appreciated this aspect of the plot, this is where I truly started falling for the book and becoming most intrigued. The task at hand seemed so different and intriguing! The action and suspense kept coming from there. Jess' role in the group and what she does for those she loves was fun to read and interesting to see though I hope she grows more as a character in the next book. Where I start to get annoyed, (and part of why I gave the book a 3) is the ending. The explanation for the rebellion group and their purpose while different, seemed VERY out there considering the rest of the book that led up to this. As I stated above I also felt that there were not any clues leading up to this explanation throughout the book. I would have liked a few hints, and the detailed "religious" explanation seemed out of place and awkward. Regardless, I will be reading the others because I want to know what happens to Jess and Matt. 

Characters--

Shailene Woodley

Jess-- Aside from being annoying, and feeling as though her growth could have been more, I actually liked her. I liked her because of her realism. I think the author did a good job of portraying a 16 year old female who is misplaced in life and unsure of herself. Jess' family doesnt seem to care about her, and with Jay as her only friend she always feels like an outcast. Im not sure how she gets into the military so early but I think its a good fit for her. She clearly fit in, with her differences. It was interesting to watch people become "attracted" to her. In a place where there are not rules people seem more intrigued with her, whereas in the world of rules with the devotees it seemed she was an anomaly and to be ignored. I like that she is still shy and growing into her own, she doesnt need to grow completely  in one book. But she is learning. Which is whats most interesting. 

Steven R. McQueen

Matt- The whole time Im trying to figure out Matt. Even in the end Im not sure what he believes. I at least get to know him by them though and that I appreciate. I like Matt. I got the impression that he is a good guy, and I like the way he looks out for people, the ones he cares about. I like his entanglement with Jess and the way they interact. I look forward to his role in the next book(s).


Jay/Sheree- I like the dynamic duo of friends that Jess has. They are very fun and interesting and truly bring another level to the book. I like that both of these people in particular are not so typical. Jess is involved with these two characters freqeuntly going to them for advice, but also their friendship. They always show their loyalty and support regardless of the issues and the mission which is something that I think lacks in some other books. (the loyalty of friendship). 

Morai by Ruth Silver

Morai by Ruth Silver (Book 2) 4 STARS

Synopsis--Olivia has been on the run from the government of Cabal since the marriage ceremony. Finally settling in and finding herself a place to call home, in Shadow, Olivia and Joshua are preparing for the uprising that they and the rebel alliance have been planning for months.
With new abilities and special talents, from Mindonsiphan, Olivia learns that she can do more than most ordinary eighteen year olds. Learning both to hide and perfect her skills will be one of the biggest challenges she'll be forced to face.
A constant roller-coaster of emotion and adventure await Olivia and Joshua, as they embark on a journey to the rebel city of Torv, and what was once home, Genesis.

Cover --Intense 

Rating: PG 13 
Overall: Exciting Adventure 
Characters:  Olivia and Josh
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: Josh
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian  
Sex Scenes: No
Setting Desert 

Overall--I loved the 2nd book, and cant wait for the 3rd!! This book was just as good as the first one. I really enjoyed reading this one, and couldnt put it down! I was totally inspired by the plot, while it was focused on these two goals it had so many other elements and sub plots within and none of them got lost in translation it was executed very well. I loved seeing Olivia get more amped up and determined throughout the book, really coming into her own even more and feeling as if she were her own person. I was VERY upset that the ending was a semi cliff hanger...but hey now Im DYING to read the third book!!!

Plot--I liked this plot a lot, it was slow moving at first but did a great job of setting up the rest of the book and the next one. There were a lot of moving mini pieces as I like to call them, points of the plot that are small throughout and constant but come together to be amazing and intense. I loved the way the  ending of the storyline played out, I felt like it was everything it should have been. Lots of love, lots of death and lots of adventure. I think the one thing I wasnt expecting AT ALL was the ending, which was good, a cliff hanger, but definitely caught me off guard which I appreciate. I was also really appreciative of the way the author wove the love, adventure, medical and dystopian aspects together with that minor sic-fi element (Mindonsiphan). It reminded me a little of the perception series. It had everything I look for in a book, and kept my interest throughout. 

Characters--

Olivia- I like Olivia, but I dont think she necessarily changed all that much in this book. She is still determined and loving. I absolutely loved the relationship she started with the young girl that enters her town. I also think her growing relationship with some of the others in her group, and the doctors she works with did grow and she matured over the course of the book in that respect. What I dont like, is her complete unwillingness to even consider having a child, now or in the future. I completely understand her unwillingness to get pregnant now, and her reactions seem justified for her age group, but its also annoying that she doesnt seem to want to help all with this aspect of the problem. She is devoted though to the rebellion and helping take down the government as its known which I respect. I liked seeing her grow with Joshua too, I appreciated that they werent perfect but did stick together and grow together.

Joshua- I LOVE this boy, but Olivia definitely outshines him on a regular basis. It seems to me that Joshua and Olivia do not spend enough time together, that the reader sees. And perhaps thats on purpose so as to keep an exciting adventure plot than a romantic one. But it does leave me wanting more Joshua. He is so sweet and romantic, but he certainly allows Olivia to be her own person and to outdo him many of times. I like his Hi-tech way of doing things, which showed the reader he is his own person outside of his relationship with Olivia which is important. I didnt see a lot of growth with him, but Im not surprised the story is most about Olivia.

Supporting Characters- I really liked the supporting cast of characters. I felt like I really got to know everyone, some more than others, but it did feel like each person was a part of the story, not just set there for background. Each character had a role to fulfill and play-out and even though some died, and some dont get along with Olivia all that well, the dynamic was important and interesting.

Fall TV Premieres

I finally caught up on all my fall tv premieres, most of which have aired though there are in fact a few more that are not yet on air yet. Ill update the post as they air though.

If you have read any of my other posts you'll know that I watch A LOT of shows. I honestly dont know where I find the time, usually on weekends and weekday mornings...but heres a list of shows I watch followed by my thoughts on the premiere, based on the day of the week. This includes new and returning shows. For more information on cancellations see http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com (I try to keep up so that if I see a show getting cancelled I can stop watching before becoming too invested...)

SUNDAY-
Once Upon a Time--Hm. I dont know what to do about this show. I have come to the point where I do not feel much attachment to the show but I remain invested because I like the actors. That may not be enough anymore. They have taken this show so far from its roots, and I just dont find myself that interested anymore. Ill keep recording it and if I get around to watching it, I will. The first episode also set up the season for the Neverland world. Which could be interesting, but I fear there will be too many characters and points to really stay focused and entertained. We shall see.

Revenge--Holy crap!! What an amazing first episode. From what Ive read online lately, the show is going back to its roots, looking for revenge every week, less initiative more gritty dirty drama, and the first episode did not disappoint. Essentially setting up this season the first scene Emily gets shot...Certainly interested in figuring out whether she will survive any WHO shot her....My only gripes so far...what happened to Charlotte (and the baby?) Why has Jack become so dark and cruel...I miss old Jack...A Definite MUST WATCH

Betrayal- This new show sparked interest. I cant say I loved the first episode, BUT I can see it going somewhere. The first episode put the pieces out there for them to come together and crumble. It reminds me of Mob Dr./Red Widow. Both of which I liked. However, I do wonder, where can this show really go after a season? But Im certainly interested and will be watching this one, regardless of the fact that the first episode was completely and utterly predictable. The next few episodes will determine whether I continue to watch.

Homeland- Woah. This season is bound to be a roller coaster. I recall frequently saying. Did that just happen? What?! No way! throughout the episode. In typical Homeland fashion nothing ever goes as I think it would or should. I am dying to know what will happen to Brody/Carrie and the whole daughter thing is crazy/weird. Wonder where that will go...But I am curious, what happened to Mike? this is a MUST WATCH!

Amazing Race --Ah, so very typical contestants. I cant say Im surprised after how many seasons? I think what irritates me the most with this show is that "famous people" always seem to on this. This season they have baseball wives and former NFL players on the show. Personally....Im somewhat offended that people who already have money get chosen over the thousand of other contestants. Regardless, Im getting sick of the blase series. So nothings changed and I will watch in my "spare time"

MONDAY-
Blacklist- LOVE IT! This might be the best new show of the season, at least so far! I look forward to this show because its crazy and I want to know what will happen with the main girl and her husband.  Admittedly though, I think this show is missing a bit of mystery. It does remind me though of a cross between Revenge and Homeland...though toned down from both...MUST WATCH

Hostages- I really like this show. The first episode was intense. Unexpected. I dont know how another season will continue...much less 13 episodes (or 15 or whatever it is) but I heard somewhere this is a one season show...perhaps the idea will continue next season with all new characters...not sure...but I do love a series that I can watch with finality. (Red Widow anyone?) I will definitely watching this one! I love the cast and the plot point is truly new and different, think Con Air. MUST WATCH

Hart of Dixie-I DO NOT like the new guy. Hate him. I am very disappointed with this show so far. Im not a fan of whats going on, but I guess the real issue is how much can you really force to happen in a small town...gotta find something! I just wanted Wade and Zoe together. And with all thats gone on, I am actually finding everyone on the show annoying. Except for Wade. Ill watch when I have time...

Beauty and the Beast - I like this season! It is so different!!! I like that Vincent is changed and that their whole outlook has to change. I think it really changes the whole feel of the show! Now what will happen next season....I dunno but Ill be watching!

TUESDAY-

SHIELD- I was really disappointed in this one. Im not a huge comic book fan, but I have always enjoyed the movies and I like the supernatural and crazy. Clearly. But this one just did not do it for me. I liked a couple of the characters, and actors but quite frankly, I was bored and annoyed with the plot. It didnt seem to go anywhere. Some of the acting was REALLY bad, I felt like I was watching a soap opera...it was just so one note, that I couldnt get into it. WILL NOT CONTINUE WATCHING.

The Originals- Since Im an avid Vampire Diaries fan, this one is intriguing. I dont know if I will watch it, but considering the less than stellar available options on Tuesday night, Im guessing Ill watch because its the only thing on...that said...I REALLY like a couple of the actors, so that will also keep me interested. Im hoping for a little cross over too because Ive grown to like Rebeka and I like Klaurine. WILL WATCH

Lucky 7- I couldnt even finish the first episode. It was honestly painful. And clearly Im not alone in this feeling because the show already got cut, after two episodes. And reality check, theres not much TV on on Tuesday night at 10pm, so it had to have been REALLY bad. The plot was somewhat interesting, but it started off in a such a weird way. To be frank, I didnt really understand why ABC would pick up such a flimsy show and then air it in a 10pm slot. There were so many other interesting shows that should have been picked up. ABC, I could have told you after reading the show synopsis this one would fail. I think most people agree. CANCELLED.

WEDNESDAY-

Arrow--Im still watching this show, its interesting., but kind of bland. I was really hoping that Arrow would get a side kick. Maybe Colton Hayes will be shortly but Im a little disappointed. I also am disappointed with his love life...but at some point things need to change or its going to get old fast. Will watch in my spare time...

Tomorrow People- I love this show I really really love it!! I think it has all the action and intrigue as shows like supernatural with mystery and possible romance...this one is a keeper. WILL WATCH!!!

Revolution- I think the premiere could have been better, considering the ending to last season, HOWEVER, I still love the show. Its different than anything else thats on, and really hits home for my particular demographic. I LOVE dystopian, if you read my blog, thats quite evident. I am interested in seeing what happens with Charlie and her crusade as well as Jason, whom I loved her with, but clearly they have gone separate ways. Im also intrigued by the new Miles issue. I WILL KEEP WATCHING!

Law and Order SVU - After the cliff hanger from last season I was completely intrigued with this one! I couldnt wait. But I must admit that Im disappointed. This show has gone off the deep end. And not in a good way. I unfortunately can no longer watch this show, it is far too gruesome given its sexual nature for my liking. Its almost painful to watch at times. So Im sad to say goodbye, but its time. WILL NOT KEEP WATCHING

Nashville--Oh Nashville how I love you. This is a great show. I love the actors and characters a lot. HOWEVER, I am very disappointed in the outcome of last season. I still love the show though. and I wont be giving up. WILL WATCH!

Ironside- Im not in love with this show, but i do like it. Im thinking its the new Law and Order. I really like the characters and actors. I love them actually. Its a different point of view too. Which I am certainly intrigued by. Im not sure how the audience is feeling about it, but I WILL BE WATCHING. Already got cancelled 

Top Chef- NOLA. I like it. Not much to say here, since it is a cooking competition. But I will be watching!

THURSDAY

Vampire Diaries--LOVE IT!!! Need I say more? I LOVE this show. I dont however like Silas and frankly find this plot silly. Last season was one thing, but now its overplayed. And Bonnie a ghost? Thats annoying too. Im over it. What I do like...the new plot with Caroline and Elena's new roommate! That seems interesting. And finding out what will happen with Jeremy and Damon is also of interest. Same with Matt, he seems to be getting a new storyline. So hopefully the Silas thing doesnt last too long, because its boring. MUST WATCH

Reign-I REALLY like this show! I didnt think I would but its so much more interesting that I originally gave it credit for! Its got romance, intrigue, mystery...it reminds me a little of princess bride without the comedy. MUST WATCH!

Wonderland- So this hasnt aired yet, but I've already given up. I know its a one season show (so the news is saying) and I liked Once Upon a Time...and I like Disney..and fairytales...but Ive seen the previews and Im sorry but it just looks so awful. Again ABC you really let me down with your choices this year on new shows. (SHIELD, LUCKY 7 and WONDERLAND, are all failures in my book) WILL NOT WATCH

Scandal- Love it. this is one of the best shows on these days. Mainly because it has a great twist at the end of each episode This is a show where everything keeps changing and you are always on your toes. The opening was no different. I was shocked with the ending! Which I love having happen to me.  think this is just such a great show, much like Revenge circa season 1. Wish it would go back to that (thats neither here nor there though!) MUST WATCH

Parenthood-- Eeek! This is a great feel good show. Its got drama, comedy and love. I like this show, even though sometimes the plot is boring or annoying, I nonetheless keep watching. The acting is great the characters are good and I WILL KEEP WATCHING

FRIDAY

Grimm- Hm. Well the first wasnt as good as I was hoping for...but definitely kept me on my toes! I think overall though as beginning to the season it was action packed and thrilling, with enough mystery to keep the show moving. I still want to know who are The Royal Family, what makes them so damn royal. I enjoyed the episode and I REALLY like all the characters they are all so interesting. WILL KEEP WATCHING

Carrie Diaries--So I have no idea what to think about this one. I LOVE Carri, the actress that is. She is so fun and quirky. But I dont really like anything else about the show. Personally, I think this should have been a movie or a one season series. There is no mystery or true intrigue in this show for me. I dont have much of an interest in the show moving forward though. WILL WATCH WHEN I HAVE TIME...

Haven- LOVE IT. This is a syfy show that I just cant get enough of. Okay I can. I am kind of hoping this is the last season with a final ending. I like this show and it never ceases to change which I love (see above) but, I can get annoyed with the repetitive plot points and the constant circle everyone seems to run in....I WILL KEEP WATCHING

Out of Breath by Rebecca Donovan

Out of Breath by Rebecca Donovan (Breathing Series #3) 4 STARS

* Need to read Reason to Breath and Barely Breathing before this book.

Synopsis: Emma leaves Weslyn and everyone in it behind to attend Stanford University, just as she always intended. A shell of her former self, she is not the same girl. She is broken, and the only way that she’ll be whole again is through forgiveness. Emma must find a way to forgive herself and recognize her own worth before she can receive the love she deserves. This final installment will have readers holding their breath until the very last page.







Cover --Pretty 
Rating: PG 13 
Overall: emotional, dark, gripping and beautiful 
Characters:  Emma, Evan, Cole 
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Last one
Book Boyfriend: Evan and Cole 
Genre: New Adult 
Sex Scenes: Yes
Setting College

Overall--This book is by far the most frustrating of them all, but its also the most INTENSE. The first half of the book I spent annoyed and confused by Emma for being so depressed and stupid. The second half of the book I just wished that those two could get their S*** together! Communicate people!!! Generally though, I found that I was annoyed more than anything. But I was pleased with how things ended and what led up to that (though that epilogue was too short. I was NOT happy about that) What I do like about this book other than the authors amazing style of writing, is that it feels somewhat realistic. The emotional reactions and feelings that Emma goes through are easy to understand. While the plot was still somewhat unbelievable at times, I can appreciate the realism of the plot, story and characters.

I also loved the alternative POV's I thought it was beautifully written and perfectly designed, the author did such an amazing job of writing this book and integrating the scenes from each end! I was amazed at how the stories were woven together so flawlessly.



Plot-- This book was primarily about how to grieve, survive, and build yourself up again after being hurt. There is no true "plot" in my opinion. Its about a girl grieving and a boy trying to heal her. Emma was hurt in a lot of ways, and had a lot of weight on her after the Jonathan incident. What was great about this book was the very many coping mechanisms that Emma had and experienced. Interestingly enough she somehow managed to get a boyfriend and maintain friendship even though she was distant and distraught. Regardless, her emotional state that we watch her go through was interesting. Personally, I think what makes this book good and so very amazing, is that the plot point is like no other, its about a girl trying to figure out how to live after the hell she'd been through, learning to fight, its powerful and moving because in reality, many women can relate to Emmas feelings, giving up, despair, pain, and so much more. What makes this amazing is seeing how someone can push through all the negative things in life and find peace and happiness.

Emma

It was also so very interesting to see everything from Evans point of view, how he was handling what happened with Emma, and his reactions to her behavior, the effect it had on him. What made the plot with him, was seeing the effect of having someone you love in pain and not able to do anything about it.

Characters-
Emma- While she annoyed me to no end, with her whiny personality, and constant self loathing, she also grew throughout the story, going from sane, to insane, to sane, to pathetic, and then confused and so on and so forth. However, these moments, make sense, it was her way of grieving, and figuring out how to survive with the weight of the world on her shoulders. I was surprised that she let a guy in like she did, and it was interesting to see that dynamic, I felt bad for the guy in Emmas life, because he would never understand, but cared so much for Emma. But in the end she found herself and fell in love again, and reading through that, having her go through such turmoil, to find her inner strength and fight for love and life, made this book all the more worth it. It was hard reading Emma as someone who gave up, but it was her getting back up again after everything, that made the book relatable and unbelievably inspiring.

Evan

Evan- LOVE HIM. He really made this book. I really disliked Emma's self loathing attitutde and she certainly didnt deserve all the love she got. BUT Evan, what an amazing guy. Who doesnt want a guy willing to do anything for you, wait for you, love you, no matter what happens. Someone to always stand by your side and be the hero you need. Thats Evan. What made him great in this book was that the reader got to hear his side of things, his feelings and his coping.

Cole- Ah. Cole, I wanted him to be more. I wanted more for him. I was unsure of how Id feel about him since I loved Evan, but he was good for Emma. The problem as usual was Emma, she didnt open up to him at all but he always came back for more, he was willing to wait and love her the way she needed him but never asked him to be. I was surprised he so willingly went along with everything, but was happy with his way of moving forward. The it wasnt quite the ending with him I wanted after falling in love with him, I was somewhat happy. Maybe.

The Forsaken by Lisa M. Stasse

The Forsaken by Lisa M. Stasse 3.5 STARS

Synopsis- As an obedient orphan of the U.N.A. (the super-country that was once Mexico, the U.S., and Canada), Alenna learned at an early age to blend in and be quiet—having your parents taken by the police will do that to a girl. But Alenna can’t help but stand out when she fails a test that all sixteen-year-olds have to take: The test says she has a high capacity for brutal violence, and so she is sent to The Wheel, an island where all would-be criminals end up.
The life expectancy of prisoners on The Wheel is just two years, but with dirty, violent, and chaotic conditions, the time seems a lot longer as Alenna is forced to deal with civil wars for land ownership and machines that snatch kids out of their makeshift homes. Desperate, she and the other prisoners concoct a potentially fatal plan to flee the island. Survival may seem impossible, but Alenna is determined to achieve it anyway

Overall- I liked this book overall. Generally it was interesting and kept my attention for most of the book.  Im looking forward to reading the next books and am highly intrigued. I must say though it does remind me of the other dystopian books out there, but the all start to sound alike at some point right? I think what sets this one apart is probably the "drug" issue the prime minister and the island/wheel. While the beginning felt stiff, and awkward, the writing and pacing picked up and I really started to fall in love. 

Plot- This plot line really intrigued me. Especially having read Hunger Games and Delirium which this book was reminiscent of, the problems for me, were really the uncivilized characters and regime that this book carried through the first half. I was constantly reminded of the Savage behavior of these boys and felt like I was reading Lord of the Flies except with females involved. I was confused by the wheel and how things were broken up, and felt that at times, certain events or activities, werent well explained. 

By the time the characters were all moving through the wheel to the Grey zone, I was intrigued and couldnt put the book down. I really started falling for the story at that point, and the twists and turns the author took me on is what really kept me interested and following along! I liked that the ending provided some conclusion to the first book, but set up the next. The final scenes, while somewhat predictable, were refreshing because the author allowed explanations to occur giving the reader the closure you need. I wish some of these answers had been provided through the course of the book, rather than at the end in one final swoop, but nonetheless I was pleased. I was also happy with the turn of events that ocurred throughout the book. Yes I predicted some of the events but the execution of these events is what made me continue reading and enjoying this book! I thought that the romance could have been more developed, but in the end it makes a lot more sense, and that puts me at ease on this issue.

Characters- 

Alanna

Alanna Alanna was annoying during the first half of the book but definitely came into her own during the course of the book. I liked that she was willing to finally see what was in front of her. I was very frustrated at first because she couldnt seem to get her head on straight! She was oblivious to the ovbious and completely stuptified by some of the ongoings on the wheel. I was irritated that she couldnt seem to figure it out quite quickly enough. I was pleasantly surprised when she finally started making her own destiny and realized she couldnt just sit around. I liked that as she got stronger, she was willing to take risks in an effort to find out the truth. And I liked that she was a strong character by the end, recognizing that sometimes things dont always go as planned but to stick it out anyway and attempt to make a change. 

Liam 

Liam - I liked Liam, however, I felt that the author could have spent more time on getting to know him. It seems like there was an insta connection between him and Alenna, which is explainable, but at the same time as the reader I dont feel like I know him, and find him somewhat forgettable until the end. 

Gadya

Gadya- I, like Alenna, had a love/hate relationship with Gadya. She is one tough cookie! But I like her. She forced Alenna to be stronger and to be a better person and I liked that they had each others backs even when they were upset with each other. I appreciated the tension and friendship that Gadya brought. 

David 

David- Im still not sure what to think about David. He confused me. In so many ways. Im not sure if he is a good guy or a bad guy, is he helpful, is he dead, what in the world is going on with this one!? I sure hope I find out in the next book! 

Countdown by Michelle Rowen

CountDown by Michelle Rowen 4 STARS

Synopsis: 3 seconds left to live. Once the countdown starts, it cannot be stopped. 
2 pawns thrown into a brutal underground reality game. 
Kira Jordan survived her family's murder and months on plague-devastated city streets with hard-won savvy and a low-level psi ability. She figures she can handle anything. Until she wakes up in a barren room, chained next to the notorious Rogan Ellis.  1 reason Kira will never, ever trust Rogan. Even though both their lives depend on it.  Their every move is controlled and televised for a vicious exclusive audience. And as Kira's psi skill unexpectedly grows and Rogan's secrets prove evermore deadly, Kira's only chance of survival is to risk trusting him as much as her instincts. Even if that means running head-on into the one trap she can't escape.  GAME OVER
*Netgalley ARC provided a copy in exchange for a review. 

Cover-Intriguing
Rating: PG-13-
Characters:  Rogan, Kira, Oliver, Jonathan and Gareth 
Page Turner: YES
Series Cont.? No
Book Boyfriend: Rogan
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian
Sex Scenes: no 
Setting- New York
Recommend if you liked- Hunger Games, Found, Talented,

Overall-I REALLY liked this book. I was hooked by the end of the first chapter. I couldnt put it down and had to know everything. I liked that this is a stand alone, and while it could have used a little more development, in both plot and character, overall I felt that it captured my attention and kept me entertained and intrigued throughout. I really liked the ending too! This book reminded me of Saw mixed with Hunger Games mixed with a sci fi element like Found and Talented. I was blown away with the world building and crazy scenarios! This is a great stand alone dystopian novel with a sci fi twist.

Plot-- This was mind-bending roller coaster story set in a not too distant future where a plague decimated most of the population and the rest of world struggled to overcome the aftermath. The rich instead of living on the ground but rather live on the Colony a floating society. Leaving the rest of the people to stick it out on the ground. The Countdown is a death match televised to the select group where the partners are required to finish a deadly task in the allotted time. The beginning reminded me of the movie Saw, where two people are locked in a room chained to the wall and in order to survive they must trust one another and help each other. What was intriguing in this book were the characters background. Unlike most books, this novel developed based on the characters past coming to light and their necessity to trust one another which further the plot.

I loved all the different plot twists and secrets that came out and really enjoyed the dynamic between Rogan and Kira. The relationship and tension that developed and evaporated felt genuine, given the scenario. Even though their connection was developed over a short period of time, that didnt detract from their overall relationship and the development of this. I felt that their relationship moved well with the plot points. I loved that the author really kept me on my toes through everything. I could not have guessed all the different issues and scenarios that these two would face and was pleasantly surprised with this book!


Characters

Kira - Cassie Steele

Kira--I liked Kira, her sarcasm and bite kept me on my toes. Her thought process seemed very raw and genuine. Obviously as the game continues she becomes more knowledgable about the process and what to look for, so I felt that she grew in this way, becoming more understanding of her surroundings. I liked that she was a fighter. She stood up to Rogan, and Gareth. She rationalized and pieced things together before acting as time continued and that felt very normal. I loved her relationship development with Rogan. I think she may have been a little too trusting and paranoid at times, going from hot to cold quite quickly at times, but if she were trusting her instinct, her gut, then perhaps thats possible. Generally speaking though she did lack some character development, she didnt quite overcome any of her fears. But I think she didnt in fact become stronger over the course of the book.

Rogan Robbie Amell

Rogan--Oh Rogan! So beautifully and undeniably handsome, and such a fighter. I LOVED learning about Rogan and his background. I was NOT expecting his history, at all. I was pleasantly surprised with this character though overall. I felt like her was rough, yet tender. His development over the course of the books was based on him letting go of his guilt, and learning to forgive himself. To trust his instincts and to be honest. I think love really opened his eyes to this, and in reality just having someone believe in you, can make all the difference. Rogan was a giver and a fighter and all around a good guy underneath a harsh exterior given his unfortunate background and circumstances. I think he could have been developed a little more towards the end of the novel with the antagonist and their battle, but otherwise felt he was strong, and genuine character that Id trust my life with! Doesnt hurt that hes sweet and attractive too....

What I didnt like-
- One thing I didnt like was part of the resolution in the ending. Without giving anything, thats really all I can say.
- It felt a little too short and rushed. A little more development would have led to a longer book and more character development for the main heroine. (That said Im glad its a Stand alone.)