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alongreader's review against another edition
4.0
Shades of Dollhouse in this exciting thriller. I downloaded and read it pretty much in one go. I liked the twists and turns and the mystery of it all.
The description says this is part of a series, but I didn't feel I was missing anything from earlier books at all. I'll look out for more in the series; this isn't exactly a cliffhanger but there's plenty of space for more stories.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
The description says this is part of a series, but I didn't feel I was missing anything from earlier books at all. I'll look out for more in the series; this isn't exactly a cliffhanger but there's plenty of space for more stories.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
delaners's review against another edition
5.0
I loved this book! The world is rich and diverse, and the characters are all in depth and fully realized. Exciting and thoughtful, this was a fun and emotional read. I’ve been a fan of Tash’s work since I was a young teenager and their talent for writing continues to shine in this second novel. Can’t wait for more Psionics!!
jayhole's review against another edition
5.0
All the characters are really interesting and I cared about them immediately. Epsilon 17 is a fascinating example of resistance and strength and Toby is very relatable. I was immediately drawn into the complicated Institute, a high powered, Government organization that controls the country through secret means. Tash McAdams has created a vibrant, complicated world that unfolds wonderfully. The story is full of diverse characters and unexpected events! I definitely recommend!!
ninetalevixen's review
4.5
I received a review copy from the author through #ReviewPit. This does not affect my rating or opinions.
4.75 stars. 4.5 stars. (I had originally planned to reread this after reading the first book, but it was such an intense experience that I don't feel prepared to undergo again. Reread-ability is a factor in ratings for me, but I also don't want to ignore my initial impression.)
Mindreaders. Telepaths. Psychics. There are many names, but here at the Institute, they like the scientific terms. We are the Psionics, and they use us without shame.
One of my very first thoughts was that this story flows incredibly well and is immediately engaging: in just a few paragraphs, I was hooked by the action and deeply invested in the protagonists; I don't generally enjoy action scenes, but the ones in this book were so well written. I couldn't put the book down
It's disconcerting to find yourself rooting for multiple sides in a conflict, and it takes masterful writing to pull off — which this book definitely exhibits. The juxtaposition of soft wholesome human interactions with fancy tech and violent conflict kept me on my toes; it was the epitome of an emotional roller coaster, and if your mental state is right, it's an incredible ride. (But if you're a mood reader and/or sensitive to certain topics, please be aware and take care of your own mental state. Content warnings are listed below.)
I think this is what happiness is. Making your own decisions, feeling safe as you do whatever you want.
The plot is nuanced and the worldbuilding detailed (with lots of diverse characters, by the way!), but at its heart this narrative felt refreshingly straightforward. It's poignant and memorable. It's one of the best books I've read this year.
(Also, this review was so hard to write because honestly, this just blew me away.)
content warnings:
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coolstorykris's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
aoife26935's review
4.0
Shades of Dollhouse in this exciting thriller. I downloaded and read it pretty much in one go. I liked the twists and turns and the mystery of it all.
The description says this is part of a series, but I didn't feel I was missing anything from earlier books at all. I'll look out for more in the series; this isn't exactly a cliffhanger but there's plenty of space for more stories.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
The description says this is part of a series, but I didn't feel I was missing anything from earlier books at all. I'll look out for more in the series; this isn't exactly a cliffhanger but there's plenty of space for more stories.
Receiving an ARC did not affect my review in any way.
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