A Soldier and a Liar

February 1, 2019

Gr 9 Up-In a postapocalyptic world, there are two kinds of people-Etiole and Nyte. Etioles run the Council and army. Nytes are gifted. They heal faster and have unique abilities; because of this, they're forced to join the military at a young age. Lai is a former soldier who has spent the last two and a half years in prison. She uses her telepathic powers to work and recruit for the Order, a peace organization, while being discreet by sneaking out of her cell every night. When she is asked to rejoin the special military team of Nytes, she realizes that she could do more good for the order while serving. Her team consists of Jay as the Nyte's leader and two other special Nytes with unique abilities. This story is told from Lia's and Jay's perspectives. The alternating narratives give insight into the complex characters' emotions and thoughts. This is a fast-paced story that never feels too rushed. Along with action, there is also a bit of mystery threaded throughout. This, along with the author's accessible writing and the book's short chapters, make this a perfect choice for reluctant readers. VERDICT Purchase this action-packed tale where Alexandra Bracken's "Darkest Minds" series is popular.-Ericka Greer, Ouachita Parish Public Library, Monroe, LA

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