Kristen Young

Continuing the story of Cadence, the Elites, the Sirens, and the Sirens, the Young Adult dystopian novel Flight drew me in as did the previous books. Someone powerful wants her dead. This third book In The Collective Underground series definitely should be read after the other two books in order to understand the story and the characters.

Having read the earlier books, I appreciated the development of Cadence. I feel this story provided the perfect conclusion to the series. I feel Kristen Young did an excellent job with character-building and world-building throughout this series.

So if you are looking for a Young Adult novel and series, check out this book and this series for yourself. I definitely recommend them.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (más)

I remember how much I loved the previous books in this series and am excited to see what happens with Cadence. I do think it would be beneficial to read the previous books in this series in order to be able to understand what is happening. This book is the last in the series and will give readers an exciting adventure as we anticipate the ending.

The big day is fast approaching for Cadence’s graduation. It seems like everything is falling into place for her to finally become an Elite working in the Hall of Love. I was excited for her but the author throws a curve ball and a trap is set that could endanger Cadence. Who sends her a code that sets up a cat and mouse scenario? I had my suspicion but with the author’s brilliant writing the story takes on secrets, danger and a question of who Cadence can trust.

I loved following Cadence as she tries to stay hidden from the enemy who is hunting her down. She encounters several people who I found to be intriguing. I especially liked Lark. She is there at the right time to help Cadence and brings her a safe place for now. With her injured leg she can’t do much. Lark makes her feel welcome in this secret underground environment. Will Lark be someone who Cadence can depend on?

I like that the author has Wil and Cadence cross paths again. The people she is staying with seem to trust him, but she knows how deceitful he can be. It is hard for her to forget the things he did yet these people trust him. Cadence is having a hard time understanding how Wil can be forgiven after she tells everyone about him. When Cadence can’t hold her anger anymore she turns on Wil. She didn’t quite get the reaction she wanted and runs away from the scene. This reminded me of a recent encounter I had with someone. After being verbally attacked by someone, I decided to walk away yet was expecting someone to comfort me. When it didn’t happen I felt shame and hurt. Cadence must have felt the same as she thought perhaps others would see that Wil is not who he says he is.

There is a lot going on in the story but one thing is clear. Faith and forgiveness are evident in this story as Cadence faces betrayal, danger and surprises that keep the story going. I loved how the author shows us how a person can be forgiven and changes into a person who wants to do right. The author also touches on worry. “We can’t extend our lives by worrying.”

The ending is explosive, intense and dangerous as Cadence encounters old friends that come to help her. I am sad to see the series end but really loved the characters and being reminded about forgiveness and trust.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (más)

The continuation of the book Apprentice, Elite chronicles the journeys of Kerr Flick as she regains her memories, trains as a Watcher, and becomes a Siren. Taking the reader on quite a journey, these books definitely need to be read in order. Establishing the idea that sometimes enemies masquerade as friends. The storyline of these two books kept my interest. I loved discovering Kerr’s past as Cadence along with her family.

Kerr/Cadence finds a way to deal with her restored memories. As a Watcher, she is the elite of the elite. If you enjoy dystopian books, check out Apprentice and Elite for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.… (más)

Sometimes remembering a traumatic event can be harmful or it can set you free. Flick is now starting to have memories that she can’t quite grasp yet. I think she was a little shocked to find out what her real name was. But for my review I am choosing to use Flick as it is familiar to readers. I’m not sure everyone is happy that Flick is experiencing memories. What if she finds out that somewhere hidden in her mind is a dangerous situation that could cause damage to many? I’m already trying to turn the pages as fast as I can to see what happens next.

For me there was an uneasiness as Flick starts her training as a watcher. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but I felt something was off. The author really delivers a story that stirs emotions that range from terror to complete peace. I noticed that Flick is struggling with doing something in her past that stops her from feeling accepted. I know I have felt that way many times. We have all messed up at one point, but the good news is that we are forgiven. I appreciate the way the author uses faith in the story that delivers great life lessons. The description of Lyric is filled with love and hope. I liked when Hodge says, “he takes your broken melody and replaces it with his own. He doesn’t force you to follow him.” I loved this moment when Flick realizes she can be healed from the painful memories and have a better life.

The last part of the book is so so good. Here we find out who to trust and who has been deceiving everyone. It is an adrenaline rush as I walk beside Flick and watch as everything around her starts to crumble. Will everything she holds close be destroyed by hate? It is a heart ponding moment as Flick and Hodge try to do the right thing. The enemy is closing in and there is no time to second guess decisions. The author leaves me wanting more after I read the last page.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.… (más)