I’ve been getting into “verse novels” a lot lately. I’ve discovered that there’s a great world in between poetry and prose that can be found in this style of writing. When I came across this short story in verse, I was intrigued, to say the least.

Being that this is a short story and it’s in verse form, word usage is bound to be constrained and word choice key to making the story aspect work. Overall I felt that Bell had a great concept with this as a story. The main character was interesting and the dystopian setting caught my interest. But, I feel, the limits of the writing form got in the way of me fully enjoying the story.

I felt there was a need for more world building. There’s enough to get the reader to understand the dangers, crimes, etc of this society, but it’s a little too much of just “on the surface” explanation. I was also a little lost at times when it switched from the present to the flashback of Conetta’s last concert then back.

Don’t get me wrong. There was good to go along with the issues I felt the story had. I applaud anyone for trying to write a story in verse and hope that this author has more in store. I have a feeling that if I were to read another verse story of hers (if she has any or plans on writing more) that happens to be longer, I’ll enjoy it. For this one, I think it needed a little more room to grow. It’s still worth checking out. ( )