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Showing posts with label Alternate History. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alternate History. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
YA Zombie Western Satisfies On Every Level
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
Dusty and desolate, the mostly abandoned town of Glory, Texas, is little more than a pile of dirt in a vast, unforgiving desert. It's a miracle anything survives in the rough, ugly settlement. With "shakers"—mindless, cannibalistic zombies—haunting Glory's perimeter and greedy, heartless men-monsters ruling its interior, no one escapes Glory unscathed.
Daisy "Willie" Wilcox lost her mother to the shaker disease last year, but the 17-year-old is determined not to let any harm come to her three younger siblings. They might be penniless, but she's doing everything in her power to keep them sheltered and safe. When a pair of violent shaker hunters accuses Willie's no-good, never-around father of stealing from them, Willie knows she has to take their threats against her family seriously. She doesn't have $3 to give the men, let alone $300, but with a little help, she thinks she can track down her drunken dad. After tricking a pair of more benign shaker hunters into accompanying her, she sets off on a desperate, perilous journey across the cruel, callous desert. Willie will do anything, risk everything, to protect her siblings. Even if it kills her—and it probably will—she'll fight to the death to save her family.
As a desert dweller who's enjoyed a number of YA westerns in the past little while, I found everything about Devils Unto Dust—a debut novel by Emma Berquist—appealing. From its gritty cover to its enthralling premise to its action-packed plot to its endearing characters, this is one of those books that just satisfies on every level. True, it's not the most original zombie tale out there, but what it lacks in creativity it makes up for in solid writing, relatable characters, and an engrossing storyline. Besides a little blood and gore, it's also a clean novel that has a lot of crossover appeal. I thoroughly enjoyed Devils Unto Dust and can't wait until Berquist's new book (not a sequel) comes out next year.
(Readalikes: Dread Nation by Justina Ireland)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for brief, mild language (no F-bombs), violence, blood/gore, and scenes of peril
To the FTC, with love: I bought a copy of Devils Unto Dust from Amazon with a portion of the millions I make from my lucrative career as a book blogger. Ha ha.
Friday, April 27, 2018
Exciting and Original, Alternate History Zombie Novel an Engrossing Read
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
The War Between the States was in full-swing when the country got the shock of its young life—its dead soldiers were not remaining dead. They were rising up, hungry and rabid. With shamblers turning everyone in their paths, war was derailed and desperate Americans had to learn to fight the growing zombie menace. An enterprising government came up with a brilliant solution. To create an army of monster-slayers, it passed the Native and Negro Reeducation Act, which required every Native and Negro child to attend combat school starting at 12 years old. While certain cities have since been declared shambler-free, these "throwaway" children still have plenty of fighting to do in order to keep their betters from being bitten.
At 17, Jane McKeene is in her third year at Miss Preston's School of Combat for Negro Girls in Baltimore. Despite being the daughter of one of the wealthiest white women in Haller County, Kentucky, Jane's mixed-race ethnicity destines her for a life of servitude. Although her fondest desire is to return home to check on her family—from whom she has heard nothing—she's making the best of her situation. She's training to be an Attendant, a combination chaperone/bodyguard for rich white girls. While such a career will hardly give her the freedom she craves, it beats harvesting cotton or slaving away in a hot kitchen. Besides, she's a skilled fighter. If she can just manage to keep her mouth shut and her manners in check long enough, a secure future will be hers.When local families start to vanish, Jane's skeptical of the official "shambler attack" explanation. Something else is going on, something much more disturbing. Not one for leaving well enough alone, she launches her own investigation into the strange disappearances. Before she knows it, she's embroiled in a plan more sinister than she ever could have imagined. With her bright future, not to mention her very life, on the line, she has to escape and find her way back to Kentucky. The shamblers aren't the only monsters Jane encounters as she fights for survival in a grim, violent world that considers her—and others like her—very much expendable.
I've been dying to read Dread Nation, a debut novel by Justina Ireland, ever since I heard about it. I was thrilled, then, when I won a copy of it from YA author Mindy McGinnis (if you like book giveaways, you have to check out her blog). The story gripped me from the very first page with its intriguing blend of horror, adventure, alternate history, and humor. Jane's impossible not to like. She's tough and sassy, but also compassionate and loyal. It's easy to root for her as she struggles to make her way in a grisly world where her life is valued only for its sacrificial power. With plenty of action to keep readers turning pages, Dread Nation is an entertaining novel so engrossing you almost don't recognize its allegorical nature. Ireland definitely has some messages—about race, about individual worth, about the value of all life—that she's trying to get across. And she succeeds without breaking the story's stride in the least. In short, I loved this book. I can't wait to see what happens next to the intrepid Jane McKeene.
(Readalikes: Reminds me of the Ashes trilogy [Ashes; Shadows; Monsters] by Ilsa J. Bick)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for language (no F-bombs), blood/gore, violence, and sexual innuendo
To the FTC, with love: I won an ARC of Dread Nation from the always generous Mindy McGinnis. Thank you!
Friday, March 25, 2016
Alternate History Soldier Girls Series Off to an Intriguing Start
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
On September 16, 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Selective Training and Service Act into law. While military conscription had occurred in The United States before, this was the first time it had happened during peacetime. The law required all men between the ages of 21 and 35 to register for the draft. As the probability of the U.S. entering World War II became more evident, the law was expanded to include all men between the ages of 18 and 45. Females were not included.
But what if they had been?
What if women were not only required to register for the draft, but also allowed to voluntarily join the military and serve in combat roles? What if they, like their male counterparts, were given the chance to prove themselves on the front lines during World War II? How would it have changed things, both during the conflict and afterward?
These are the questions asked in Front Lines, the first novel in a new alternate history YA series by Michael Grant. In it, we're introduced to three ordinary women whose lives change irrevocably because of a 1940 ruling which allows them to enlist in the military. Two years later, 16-year-old Rio Richlin, a farmer's daughter from California, lies about her age in order to sign up. Not only does she want revenge against the enemies who killed her soldier sister, but she wants to do her part to serve her country. Frangie Marr, a 17-year-old black girl from Oklahoma, wants to be a doctor. It's a pipe dream, of course, but one she might be able to realize—to some degree, at least—by getting medic training and experience in the Armed Forces. Besides, her family desperately needs the money she can earn as a soldier. Knowing her double minority status will make her a particularly vulnerable target, Frangie signs up anyway. Rainy Schulterman, an 18-year-old Jewish woman from New York City's Lower East Side, wants her chance to outwit the Nazis who are systematically murdering her people in Europe. Training to be an intelligence officer is a challenging but fulfilling way to use her smarts against the seemingly unstoppable enemy.
As Rio, Frangie, and Rainy make their way through enlistment, boot camp, advanced training, and war itself, they'll find challenges and difficulties around every corner. Not only will they battle flagrant discrimination, but they'll also endure the pain, fatigue, fear, homesickness, and self-doubt that plagues every soldier. Along the way, however, they'll discover the vast potential that lies within each of them—and the courage to unfurl it in defense of the country they love.
I'm always intrigued by World War II novels, especially those written for teens. The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak, Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein, and Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys all stand out as excellent stories that bring the conflict, with all its inherent drama, to life. Even among these titles, though, Front Lines stands out. Its unique premise makes it different from the rest. While the story itself may not be all that original, Grant keeps it exciting by throwing plenty of conflict into the characters' paths. The front lines action doesn't begin until 3/4 of the way through the book, but the first 300 pages still managed to keep my attention. More or less. Yes, it feels long in places and no, it isn't as mesmerizing as I wanted it to be, but I still enjoyed Front Lines. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
(Readalikes: Reminded me of Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein; Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith; and Rites of Passage by Joy N. Hensley)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for violence, blood/gore, language (no F-bombs—the word "fug" is used as a substitute), and sensuality/sexual innuendo
To the FTC, with love: I received a finished copy of Front Lines by Michael Grant from the generous folks at HarperCollins. Thank you!
Monday, February 22, 2016
Wolf By Wolf Engrossing But Putdownable
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
Yael has one goal: kill Adolf Hitler. The 17-year-old Jew blames the leader for the extermination of not just her family, but also her people. A victim of death camp science experiments, she has evolved into a skinshifter. Thanks to Nazi innovation, Yael can change at will almost everything about herself—height, weight, eye color, the timbre of her voice, etc. With the blessing of the Resistance, she will use this power to impersonate the Tour's only female winner—Adele Wolfe. She will use her comely disguise to win the race, lure an unguarded Hitler onto the dance floor, and kill the man who stole everything from her. Failure is not an option.
As Yael begins the 20,780 kilometer race, which will take her from her home in Germania (formerly Berlin, the city is now the capital of the Third Reich) to the glittering metropolis of Tokyo, she begins to understand just how dangerous her mission really is. Not only must she stay in character as Adele Wolfe at all times, but she must fend off the attention of her competitors (one of whom is Adele's twin brother), and survive the underhanded dealings of the other riders. If Yael manages to emerge victorious, she still has to find the strength to murder the most powerful man in the world—and get away with the crime. Does she truly have the cold-blooded conviction to do such a thing? Will she even get a chance? It all depends on a Jewish death camp survivor-in-disguise winning a grueling and vicious race ... does Yael have what it takes to fulfill the most daring mission in history?
I loved Ryan Graudin's last novel, The Walled City, for of its vivid setting, heart-pounding plot, and sympathetic characters. This one, however, wasn't nearly as compelling. Yael is most certainly sympathetic, but for some reason, I just didn't feel much connection with her. Most of Wolf By Wolf's cast, in fact, seems underdeveloped to me. I wanted more complexity from them, more depth. Plot-wise, the novel is interesting and exciting. Not thrilling enough for me to read in one sitting (which is how I devoured The Walled City), but still engrossing. Overall, I liked Wolf By Wolf, didn't love it. I don't know if I'll bother with the sequel (Blood for Blood comes out November 1, 2016) or not. We'll see.
(Readalikes: Hm, I can't think of anything. Can you?)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for language (no F-bombs), violence, blood/gore, and mild sexual innuendo
To the FTC, with love: Another library fine find
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
YA Steampunk/Alternate History Story a Clean, Charming Romp
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
Verity Newton, a 17-year-old from Connecticut, is no stranger to adventure. She's faced danger and derring-do of every possible kind—between the pages of the pulp novels she loves to read. Her real life has been less exciting, but her luck in that regard appears to be changing. Verity's train hasn't even reached New York City before it's robbed by gentleman bandits! And that's only the first of many intriguing encounters she has in the bustling metropolis.
When Verity accepts a position as governess to a trio of orphaned children living with their uncle, she finds herself the employee of a mysterious British magister. Using magic to ensure its rule, this noble class has always controlled the American colonies. Living lives of wealth and privilege, they refuse to mingle with commoners—or concern themselves over the petty squabbles of the lower classes. Lord Henry Lyndon, however, seems a little too interested in the antics of the Rebel Mechanics, an underground group that uses science and engineering to undermine the magicians' power. Already acquainted with the cheeky rebels, Verity agrees to be their spy. She hopes to uncover her employer's clandestine activities while keeping her own secrets well hidden from prying eyes.
As the fight between the rebels and the magisters heats up, Verity finds herself caught in the middle—not just between two warring factions, but between two magnetic men. With danger all around her, she's finally found the grand adventure for which she's been longing. But will it prove too much for the intrepid Verity?
From the moment I heard about Rebel Mechanics, Shanna Swendson's debut YA novel, I knew I needed to read it. The alternate history/steampunk premise just sounded fun. And, you know what? It really is. Although the book turned out to be a lighter read than I expected, I still found Rebel Mechanics engaging, entertaining, and immensely enjoyable. A clean, campy romp, this is the kind of story in which readers of all ages can delight. Sure, it's predictable. Yes, it's got a sorta-annoying love triangle. No, I didn't care. I just enjoyed this charming, upbeat read.
(Readalikes: Hm, I can't think of anything. Can you?)
Grade:
When Verity accepts a position as governess to a trio of orphaned children living with their uncle, she finds herself the employee of a mysterious British magister. Using magic to ensure its rule, this noble class has always controlled the American colonies. Living lives of wealth and privilege, they refuse to mingle with commoners—or concern themselves over the petty squabbles of the lower classes. Lord Henry Lyndon, however, seems a little too interested in the antics of the Rebel Mechanics, an underground group that uses science and engineering to undermine the magicians' power. Already acquainted with the cheeky rebels, Verity agrees to be their spy. She hopes to uncover her employer's clandestine activities while keeping her own secrets well hidden from prying eyes.
As the fight between the rebels and the magisters heats up, Verity finds herself caught in the middle—not just between two warring factions, but between two magnetic men. With danger all around her, she's finally found the grand adventure for which she's been longing. But will it prove too much for the intrepid Verity?
From the moment I heard about Rebel Mechanics, Shanna Swendson's debut YA novel, I knew I needed to read it. The alternate history/steampunk premise just sounded fun. And, you know what? It really is. Although the book turned out to be a lighter read than I expected, I still found Rebel Mechanics engaging, entertaining, and immensely enjoyable. A clean, campy romp, this is the kind of story in which readers of all ages can delight. Sure, it's predictable. Yes, it's got a sorta-annoying love triangle. No, I didn't care. I just enjoyed this charming, upbeat read.
(Readalikes: Hm, I can't think of anything. Can you?)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for brief, mild language (no F-bombs), and violence
To the FTC, with love: I bought a copy of Rebel Mechanics from Amazon with a portion of the millions I make from my lucrative career as a book blogger. Ha ha.
Friday, December 04, 2015
Imaginative Setting Makes Compelling Background for Magical, Alternative-History Adventure
(Image from Barnes & Noble)
"You have ink in your blood, boy, and no help for it. Books will never be just a business to you" (26).
Imagine if the great library at Alexandria had never been destroyed. If it, in fact, stood supreme, the mother of a host of daughter libraries around the world. Imagine if the Great Library controlled the written word, using alchemy to copy books and distribute them—temporarily and at its own discretion—to citizens' mobile devices. Consider a world in which owning an original, printed book is illegal, punishable by imprisonment, even death. Where books are traded on the black market because, in spite of it all, "books were a precious commodity ... [smugglers] catered to a basic human hunger" (137).
This is the exact situation of those living in 2025 in the alternative world Rachel Caine introduces in her magical YA novel, Ink and Bone. The story focuses on Jess Brightwell, a 16-year-old Londoner, who works as a "runner" for his family's black-market books business. It's a dangerous job, one for which Jess has little love. He hungers for the books, themselves, for the knowledge that's so freely available inside them. Because he's sensitive where he needs to be cunning, Jess is tasked with becoming his father's spy at the Great Library. Only a small number of postulants are accepted for Library service each year and the selection process is ruthless. Although Jess is accepted into the program, his most demanding assignments are yet to come. Under the tutelage of a merciless instructor, Jess isn't sure he will survive long enough to become a Scholar, let alone learn all the secrets the Great Library holds within its hallowed walls.
The longer Jess survives at the Great Library, the more dangerous his position becomes. He's wary of his classmates, all of whom hide their own secrets. The spilling of his own secret—that he's the son of a wanted criminal—could be the end of everything for Jess. Things get even more dicey when he discovers a remarkable invention, one that would undermine the Library's power, allowing average citizens the kind of freedom hated and feared by those who control the Library and thus, the world. With a target on his back, Jess must confront conflicting loyalties to figure out what's worth fighting for in a corrupt time when things have gone oh, so horrifyingly wrong ...
Any book lover will appreciate the conflict central to Ink and Bone's plot. They will understand Jess' motivation, his desire to protect the written word from those who would abuse it. This sets up the reader for a tense, action-packed ride, filled with magic, adventure, and suspense. It's easy to root for smart, sympathetic Jess in his quest to fight oppression, bringing the freedom of knowledge to the masses. While the rules of Caine's fantasy world get confusing at times, overall, it's a complex, well-built setting that makes an intriguing backdrop for this imaginative and compelling tale. If you dig exciting, adrenaline-fueled stories with unique elements, definitely give Ink and Bone a go. You won't be disappointed.
(Readalikes: Hm, I can't think of anything. Can you?)
Grade:
If this were a movie, it would be rated:
for language (no F-bombs), violence, blood/gore, and sexual innuendo
To the FTC, with love: I bought a copy of Ink and Bone from Amazon with a portion of the millions I make from my lucrative career as a book blogger. Ha ha.
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