So begins a story of deception, friendship, love, and betrayal. Emmett, the main character and story teller is a hardened poor kid who makes the list. The big corp (Babel) is in complete control. You will fight, ruthlessly, to earn your way to the surface. People are hurt, people die, enemies are made, and friendships are formed. The emotions Emmett must endure are a roller-coaster. Who can he trust? What is Babel hiding? Will he ever make it home again to see that moms and pops are actually being taken care of? The entire story is high energy and stressful. You want to hate some and love others but who is being real? You are just are distrustful as Emmett. This might be a story about a bunch of teens but its relatable to any age. Its a great read that captures you from the beginning and doesn't let go. Just when you think you know what Babel is up to something else insane happens. You experience the lies and deceit with Emmett and the hope as well. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes sci-fi/space travel.
SPOILERS
He was supposed to be with Kaya! They freaking killed Kaya! I did not see that coming. Maybe she's alive and Babel is hiding her...wishful thinking. I mean I like Morning and while I didn't trust her at first, I think she is genuinely interested in Emmett and a good person. I'm glad the "love" scene wasn't done in more detail. It always makes me a little uncomfortable when authors go into detail about 1st times or anything sexual between minors. Yes, we all know it happens but that is not necessary so kudos to this author for glazing over that piece.
I did not see that ending coming. I knew Babel had one more thing up their sleeve but to pit two kids against each other TO THE DEATH is insane! Roathy probably deserved to die but I am so proud of Emmett for taking the high road. For not killing him and actually trying to save him. It showed immense character development.
I adored Bilal. He always sees the best in everyone and everything, even when the world turns against him. He is a true friend and derserves better than what happened to him. I hope he comes back somehow or is in one of the pods headed to the surface.
Vademeer is an enigma. I thought he was a Babel bad guy at first but he is a mentor. He genuinely cares about Emmett & Kaya when she was alive. Sure he gets more money if his kids win but he actually cares. He wasn't just in it for the money. He mourned Kaya. He was worried about Emmett and genuinely proud when he made the adult decision, i.e. not killing someone as revenge...even it it was warranted.
Defoe...I want to think he's bad. But I just don't think he is. Something about him says he is different. Yes he has done, is doing horrible things for Babel, but we get these glimpses of him that make me think he has some good hidden in there. That he is not just a pawn for this huge corporation. I could be totally wrong but I swear he cares, slightly, for Emmett and the other kids (well his, not the other team).
I still do not trust Isadora. She is crazy. She is vengeful. She should NOT be going to Eden. But she was grandfathered in. Babel and their games. Will they ever end? Can't wait for the rest of this story!
I got this book for free from Blogging for Books to give my honest review.
