My review? Well.... I really, really liked this book. It was addicting to me, really. At first I wasn't sure about it, because it is seriously an alien race abducting teens and putting them in a human, earth-like zoo. That sounds odd, obviously. And at first, I suppose it was, but since I was quite curious, the oddness was a good thing. Each of the characters had very different backstories and perspectives as well, which definitely added to my interest and the mystery in general.
But then some characters started making some very questionable decisions, and I felt like maybe it was going to delve too far into unbelievability territory. I mean, a few were even starting to be fine with being in a human zoo. As I read, though, I realized that a lot of these strange choices may have had to do with the psychological torment that these characters are facing. They're basically completely unsure who they can trust, and this includes among themselves. That aspect fascinated me to no end, and led to a lot of turmoil within the group. Also, I am pretty sure certain group members are completely insane which absolutely added to the intrigue.
Then there's the romance, which when I first heard of it, my answer was basically:
Because there is a human boy who at first, our main character Cora has affections for. Not deep ones, mind you, since they kind of just met and were thrown in a zoo, but he is the one she thinks she can trust the most, and likes the most. Enter Cassian, the Robot/Oscar Statue that is the caretaker of the humans. He seems to be protective over Cora, but is he trustworthy? Who cares, because Cora's got a case of the swoons! Okay, from the sound of it... it's a lot of nope. But. I can't even help it, by the end, I shipped them, and I don't even mind admitting it.
This is basically what I loved about this book, condensed:
- Insanely unique plot and worldbuilding.
- Very complex characters and fabulous psychological questions were raised.
- Quite thought provoking and exciting, which to me, is the best of both worlds.
- I liked the romance, even though everyone else likely things it's creepy.
Bottom Line: I adored, and I need the next book immediately. Please and thank you.
**Copy provided for review**
This review was originally posted on It Starts at Midnight