Read my full review (tomorrow) at between-the-shelves.com!

Thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday books for sending me an early copy to review! Since young adult dystopian fiction is one of my favorite things, I couldn't wait to get to this book. It sounds like a mash-up of The Handmaid's Tale and The Hunger Games, and I couldn't have been more excited. The story, the concept, and the atmosphere all worked, but the execution lacked a bit for me.

The concept and Tierney's development throughout the book were believable to me, as we learn more about the wrongdoings of society as Tierney's eyes are opened. And such a fantastic, creepy setting to boot.

What turned me off about this book was the execution. For most of the book, I was more reminded of The Lord of the Flies than anything else, with the girls turning against each other as they're trapped in the wilderness. Which is a fantastic story concept! I just wanted more insight into this society and some of the other characters. Besides Tierney, most of the side characters fell flat for me. Outside of their direct interactions with Tierney, we don't get much characterization, even for her love interest. I wanted to know more about them and see more vulnerability there.

Basically, I loved this concept, I just wish the structure was a bit different, with a stronger sense of the world overall. The creepy vibes, though, will make it a perfect October release!

3.5/5 stars