A review by danaaherron
Rebel by Amy Tintera

5.0

I feel like this book really changed the game for YA dystopia, if only it were more common. I really admired how Wren didn't want to be the leader of the rebellion for the Reboots. She didn't need to struggle to lead when she was already struggling with her own morality; women don't need to do everything to be deserving (to live, in this case). With other YA dystopias like The Hunger Games and Matched, the female protagonists play a vitally important role to advancing the rebellion against the totalitarian government, and here Wren is more like a general leading an army. Callum had to step up to lead because he knew that he wanted to help and save people, human and Reboot alike. Also points for a healthy af relationship and no love triangle! I also love how the author doesn't shy away from the topic of sex, which a LOT of YA books do (nothing explicit though). I was really proud of both Wren and Callum's growth in this book and the ending felt fitting for both characters. I also liked how the villain, Micah, was somewhat sympathetic and understandable while still being the antagonist and also an asshole. When he "dropped" her I wanted to punch his smug little face and I'm happy with the ending he got. Overall, a really great sequel with some great character development.