I liked this way way more than I thought I would. I've taken to reading a lot of debut novels written during MFAs lately and this is easily in the top 3 of that category.

This short novel is well written, well paced, and blends familiar tropes with some cool new things that kept my interest. This type of plot typically suffers from rushed and unsatisfying endings. There were elements like that here, but easily comparable to Kings the institute. Although many questions remain unanswered, the story feels finished.

Advertisements for this book liken it to the handmaid's tale and I'm really not sure why. The common point is likely the claustrophobia of scarcely knowing more than the main character does, which works really well in this novel. However, it explores vastly different themes (which include racism, identity, loyalty, and morality) and can stand on its own. A solid 4 stars and recommended to anyone who enjoys a good creepy story.