OK, this exactly the kind of dystopian sci-fi I usually don’t gravitate to but something hooked me in the description and pulled me in. I was curious as I have many younger readers who like sci-fi content so I was hopeful to have a must read to suggest to them.

Unfortunately, the execution didn’t fully land for me. The world-building, while imaginative, often came through in heavy exposition that slowed the pacing to a crawl. Key plot points dragged, while other moments that should have had real emotional or dramatic impact passed by without enough buildup.

Character depth was another issue. The main clone had some internal conflict worth following, but the supporting cast felt underdeveloped, making it hard to care about their stakes. By the time the ending rolled around, I wasn’t nearly as invested as I wanted to be and while the conclusion fit the grim tone, it lacked the punch to make the journey feel worth it.

Overall, this had the potential to be sharp, tense, and immersive, but it left me feeling more detached than drawn in. A good premise held back by slow pacing, flat side characters, and an ending that fizzles rather than hits.

I am thankful to have gotten a complimentary eARC from Varida P&R through NetGalley to read which gave me the opportunity to voluntarily leave a review.


My rating system for Middle Grade and children’s books

⭐️ Significant problems and would never recommend to the audience.
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea but may have some appeal.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ an ok book which I wouldn’t go out of my way to recommend but it has some value for young readers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! I would recommend for the age or reading level appropriate for the book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Would recommend highly, especially to school programs as a wide spread reading opportunity.

This book was a confusing read. I really could not understand the writer. I would not recommend this book to anyone.