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A review by gheridenthebookbard
The Forgotten Earth by Brilynn O'Neal
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
The Forgotten Earth feels like the start of something truly extraordinary. Brilynn O’Neal crafts a haunting world teetering on extinction—where plant life is a myth, the earth is barren, and humanity’s survival is a fragile thread. Compelling characters, rich world-building, and a plot that refuses to let go.
At the heart of this story is Willow, a fiercely intelligent protagonist with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Desperate to save her starving community, she risks everything to uncover forbidden truths hidden in ancient books—truths that could rewrite the future. Joining her is Liam, initially tasked with stopping her but instead becoming her unlikely ally, and Olivia, her unwavering best friend. Together, they ignite a rebellion that challenges the decaying status quo.
The characters are the soul of this book- complex, relatable, and brimming with life. Willow’s determination is infectious, Liam’s moral conflict adds depth, and Olivia’s loyalty ties it all together. The pacing kept me hooked, even if a few moments lingered longer than necessary. Every scene felt purposeful, and I devoured this story like a feast in a famine-stricken world.
O’Neal’s world-building is masterful, painting a stark yet vivid landscape of despair and hope. The contrast between the desolation of the earth and the vibrancy of knowledge and resistance is beautifully executed.
This book isn’t just a story—it’s a call to imagine what we could lose and fight for what matters most. I’m already counting the days until book two. If you love dystopian tales with high stakes, unforgettable characters, and a glimmer of hope in the darkness, The Forgotten Earth should be your next read. Highly recommend
At the heart of this story is Willow, a fiercely intelligent protagonist with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Desperate to save her starving community, she risks everything to uncover forbidden truths hidden in ancient books—truths that could rewrite the future. Joining her is Liam, initially tasked with stopping her but instead becoming her unlikely ally, and Olivia, her unwavering best friend. Together, they ignite a rebellion that challenges the decaying status quo.
The characters are the soul of this book- complex, relatable, and brimming with life. Willow’s determination is infectious, Liam’s moral conflict adds depth, and Olivia’s loyalty ties it all together. The pacing kept me hooked, even if a few moments lingered longer than necessary. Every scene felt purposeful, and I devoured this story like a feast in a famine-stricken world.
O’Neal’s world-building is masterful, painting a stark yet vivid landscape of despair and hope. The contrast between the desolation of the earth and the vibrancy of knowledge and resistance is beautifully executed.
This book isn’t just a story—it’s a call to imagine what we could lose and fight for what matters most. I’m already counting the days until book two. If you love dystopian tales with high stakes, unforgettable characters, and a glimmer of hope in the darkness, The Forgotten Earth should be your next read. Highly recommend