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The Refuge Trilogy #1
Annexed
Friends or family? Desire or responsibility? She thought she'd made her choice. Now, finding herself trapped in a world splintered from her own, Narissa is determined to return home. Learning that the means of crossing between realities has been lost, she vows to find the elusive gateway. Narissa doesn't plan to make friends. She certainly doesn't intend to fall in love. Faced with the decision, will she choose the life she wants, or return to the world where she belongs?
296 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2011
1 person is currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca McKinnon
22 books293 followersRebecca McKinnon enjoys playing with her imaginary friends and introducing them to others through her writing. She dreams of living in the middle of nowhere, but has been unable to find an acceptable location that wouldn’t require crossing an ocean.
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August 21, 2011
Friends or family?
Desire or responsibility?
This is one of those books you're so happy reading, you don't notice you've reached the end until you turned the last page, and you suddenly start freaking out because there's NO way it's going to wrap up and answer all your questions. Annexed certainly whet my appetite for the Refuge trilogy! For me, one of the most attention grabbing aspects of this book was the inner struggle outlined by the two lines I quoted at the first of this review. I believe these questions can resound in everyone--especially the last one. Who doesn't have a hard time deciding between those two options? And if that doesn't convince you that the protagonist's situation is worth some good reading time, just read the first chapter. Intriguing is the word that comes to mind.
In essence, this is about a teenager--Narissa--who ends up quite suddenly and mysteriously in a world that is definitely not her own. Everyone tells her there's no going back to her old life and family, but she's not about to give up.
Narissa is a strong character, and though there's still a lot to learn about her and her past, the reader can easily understand her personality and actions. I must admit that I wanted more of Daman, even though the author had him in there a lot. He was just such a fascinating character! And I'll admit it, broodingly attractive. Can't wait for more of him! I'm not too big on spoilers for a review, so I won't say much more about the story itself. Except that the idea is new, mysterious, and the writing is beautifully descriptive. The author has created a realistic setting that draws you in, and characters that perfectly compliment the world she's made. I anxiously await the release of book two!
Desire or responsibility?
This is one of those books you're so happy reading, you don't notice you've reached the end until you turned the last page, and you suddenly start freaking out because there's NO way it's going to wrap up and answer all your questions. Annexed certainly whet my appetite for the Refuge trilogy! For me, one of the most attention grabbing aspects of this book was the inner struggle outlined by the two lines I quoted at the first of this review. I believe these questions can resound in everyone--especially the last one. Who doesn't have a hard time deciding between those two options? And if that doesn't convince you that the protagonist's situation is worth some good reading time, just read the first chapter. Intriguing is the word that comes to mind.
In essence, this is about a teenager--Narissa--who ends up quite suddenly and mysteriously in a world that is definitely not her own. Everyone tells her there's no going back to her old life and family, but she's not about to give up.
Narissa is a strong character, and though there's still a lot to learn about her and her past, the reader can easily understand her personality and actions. I must admit that I wanted more of Daman, even though the author had him in there a lot. He was just such a fascinating character! And I'll admit it, broodingly attractive. Can't wait for more of him! I'm not too big on spoilers for a review, so I won't say much more about the story itself. Except that the idea is new, mysterious, and the writing is beautifully descriptive. The author has created a realistic setting that draws you in, and characters that perfectly compliment the world she's made. I anxiously await the release of book two!
June 3, 2012
For more of my reviews go to www.rachelefisher.com
Title: Annexed
Author: Rebecca McKinnon
Rating: 4 Stars
Amazon Summary:
Friends or family? Desire or responsibility?
She thought she’d made her choice.
Now, finding herself trapped in a world splintered from her own, Narissa is determined to return home. Learning that the means of crossing between realities has been lost, she vows to find the elusive gateway.
Narissa doesn’t plan to make friends. She certainly doesn’t intend to fall in love. Faced with the decision, will she choose the life she wants, or return to the world where she belongs?
My Review
I would like to begin my review with the disclosure that Ms. McKinnon is a fellow independent author and a friend. That being said, she gave me her works for an honest critique and that is what I have provided. I also would like to mention that the book is professionally written and edited, so there is no worry there for those of you who find this an obstacle when selecting works by independent authors. (It's also a complete steal at $.99 for Kindle!)
I would like to say that I read all of the Refuge Trilogy (I got the last one early - nanny-nanny-boo-boo!) in about four days because McKinnon did an excellent job of keeping the action rolling, along with my interest. She starts the reader off right smack in the middle of strange happenings with a mysterious beginning. When I first started there were aspects of the beginning that were so mysterious that I felt fear. Not fear for the character, fear that my greatest storytelling annoyance would happen and I'd have to tell the author. What is that greatest annoyance, you ask? LACK OF ANSWERS. Duhn, Duhn, Duhn! For me, I get soooooooo annoyed when stories reference specific details that seem important, yet are never explained. But without giving any spoilers, I can say that Ms. McKinnon DOES give answers for everything...they just may not be in the first book.
One of the most interesting things about the Refuge series in general is that it is actually two genres of story in one. It is part contemporary ya and part dystopian ya. :) Funny! It is partly set in the VERY modern and real world of Narissa and partly set in the dystopia of the Refuge and the two overlap. I found this to be very interesting!
Narissa - As the main character, Narissa is far more complicated than she may at first seem. You first realize this when you learn that the book starts after she's driven herself way up into the mountains to be alone after some traumatic incident. At sixteen, most teens don't have the freedom or the inclination to "get away" to the mountains, so Narissa already seems a little more independent than the average girl. Though McKinnon does not reveal all of the details in Annexed, you do find out that Narissa has had a tough life with a wanton mother who cares little for Narissa and her little sister, Maera's, needs. Narissa has essentially been a mother herself and has been forced to learn the dark side of adults (and particularly men) at an early age. But that is what is best about Narissa, IMHO; McKinnon allows her to be complicated. Sometimes she is like a little girl, inexperienced in her understanding of men and love, very much like a teenager meeting the world...and sometimes she is so world-weary, when the weight of her prior experiences clouds her vision and affects her decisions. You might see Narissa as emotional, but as you get to know her, you understand why she sometimes lacks confidence and sometimes charges ahead, sure that she's right. In this way, Narissa feels real to me.
Daman - Sigh. If you like a tall, dark, handsome, kind, supportive, protective, ya love interest, you'll love Daman. (When he starts calling her Riss right off the bat you just love him...) Of course, he has some mystery about him that may make you question his motives. Perhaps that makes him even more attractive, for those readers who like a man who possibly has a dark past. Though he begins the story as a dark and brooding individual, Narissa brings the breath of fresh air Daman needs to begin to change. And as an entrenched part of the society of the Refuge, Daman's changes will have unforeseen consequences for everyone else.
Supporting Cast - There is a large supporting cast in this story and of course, you won't get to know them all in depth, but you do get to know the family that Narissa stays with in the Refuge quite well (Mac, Leah, Beth), as well as Daman's closest friends (Luke, Kauri) and believe me, you'll love them. The people who open their hearts to Narissa are good people to treat a complete stranger so kindly and you find yourself loving them as much as Narissa does.
The Refuge - The world-building in the Refuge is excellent. You can really picture it and some of the scenes are particularly stunning, like those at the mysterious LAKE where the Refuge residents are terrified to swim, but often picnic. Narissa is accidentally transported there, or Annexed, when she takes her trip to the mountains. She is taken in by the residents and by that I mean, quite quickly she grows to love this cloistered little society and feels at home there. She has to stay because they are not sure how she can return to her own home, though that is her entire goal for this book because she needs to get back home to check on her sister. Unfortunately, she makes a lot of waves in her new home. The residents of the Refuge are extremely conservative and live lives that are out of the far distant past in many ways. They have a Council that makes all the decisions, but there is no democracy. They don't use TV or radios, don't (except a lucky few) use mobile phones, they marry quite young and according to the rules of the society, and they are virgins until marriage. Some people in the society are excited by Narissa's outspoken ways and modern mannerisms, but like all fish-out-of-water stories, Narissa quickly finds that some people don't like her messing with their perfect world at all. In a town so small and with rules so strict, Narissa finds herself in trouble with some frequency, much to the reader's amusement.
Without telling you much more, the things that come to mind for me as far as comparisons go include:
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court - Because the Refuge society is almost medieval in some ways the culture gap is a major issue.
Pleasantville - Because a lot of the controversy centers around individual liberties (like voting, freedom to marry by choice, and freedom of speech) and sexual freedom, I am reminded of this fabulous movie.
I don't want to give away too much except to say that the story is a page-turner. There will be many twists, including Narissa's own complicated decision-making. And when you get to the last page you'll be ordering the next book...
Title: Annexed
Author: Rebecca McKinnon
Rating: 4 Stars
Amazon Summary:
Friends or family? Desire or responsibility?
She thought she’d made her choice.
Now, finding herself trapped in a world splintered from her own, Narissa is determined to return home. Learning that the means of crossing between realities has been lost, she vows to find the elusive gateway.
Narissa doesn’t plan to make friends. She certainly doesn’t intend to fall in love. Faced with the decision, will she choose the life she wants, or return to the world where she belongs?
My Review
I would like to begin my review with the disclosure that Ms. McKinnon is a fellow independent author and a friend. That being said, she gave me her works for an honest critique and that is what I have provided. I also would like to mention that the book is professionally written and edited, so there is no worry there for those of you who find this an obstacle when selecting works by independent authors. (It's also a complete steal at $.99 for Kindle!)
I would like to say that I read all of the Refuge Trilogy (I got the last one early - nanny-nanny-boo-boo!) in about four days because McKinnon did an excellent job of keeping the action rolling, along with my interest. She starts the reader off right smack in the middle of strange happenings with a mysterious beginning. When I first started there were aspects of the beginning that were so mysterious that I felt fear. Not fear for the character, fear that my greatest storytelling annoyance would happen and I'd have to tell the author. What is that greatest annoyance, you ask? LACK OF ANSWERS. Duhn, Duhn, Duhn! For me, I get soooooooo annoyed when stories reference specific details that seem important, yet are never explained. But without giving any spoilers, I can say that Ms. McKinnon DOES give answers for everything...they just may not be in the first book.
One of the most interesting things about the Refuge series in general is that it is actually two genres of story in one. It is part contemporary ya and part dystopian ya. :) Funny! It is partly set in the VERY modern and real world of Narissa and partly set in the dystopia of the Refuge and the two overlap. I found this to be very interesting!
Narissa - As the main character, Narissa is far more complicated than she may at first seem. You first realize this when you learn that the book starts after she's driven herself way up into the mountains to be alone after some traumatic incident. At sixteen, most teens don't have the freedom or the inclination to "get away" to the mountains, so Narissa already seems a little more independent than the average girl. Though McKinnon does not reveal all of the details in Annexed, you do find out that Narissa has had a tough life with a wanton mother who cares little for Narissa and her little sister, Maera's, needs. Narissa has essentially been a mother herself and has been forced to learn the dark side of adults (and particularly men) at an early age. But that is what is best about Narissa, IMHO; McKinnon allows her to be complicated. Sometimes she is like a little girl, inexperienced in her understanding of men and love, very much like a teenager meeting the world...and sometimes she is so world-weary, when the weight of her prior experiences clouds her vision and affects her decisions. You might see Narissa as emotional, but as you get to know her, you understand why she sometimes lacks confidence and sometimes charges ahead, sure that she's right. In this way, Narissa feels real to me.
Daman - Sigh. If you like a tall, dark, handsome, kind, supportive, protective, ya love interest, you'll love Daman. (When he starts calling her Riss right off the bat you just love him...) Of course, he has some mystery about him that may make you question his motives. Perhaps that makes him even more attractive, for those readers who like a man who possibly has a dark past. Though he begins the story as a dark and brooding individual, Narissa brings the breath of fresh air Daman needs to begin to change. And as an entrenched part of the society of the Refuge, Daman's changes will have unforeseen consequences for everyone else.
Supporting Cast - There is a large supporting cast in this story and of course, you won't get to know them all in depth, but you do get to know the family that Narissa stays with in the Refuge quite well (Mac, Leah, Beth), as well as Daman's closest friends (Luke, Kauri) and believe me, you'll love them. The people who open their hearts to Narissa are good people to treat a complete stranger so kindly and you find yourself loving them as much as Narissa does.
The Refuge - The world-building in the Refuge is excellent. You can really picture it and some of the scenes are particularly stunning, like those at the mysterious LAKE where the Refuge residents are terrified to swim, but often picnic. Narissa is accidentally transported there, or Annexed, when she takes her trip to the mountains. She is taken in by the residents and by that I mean, quite quickly she grows to love this cloistered little society and feels at home there. She has to stay because they are not sure how she can return to her own home, though that is her entire goal for this book because she needs to get back home to check on her sister. Unfortunately, she makes a lot of waves in her new home. The residents of the Refuge are extremely conservative and live lives that are out of the far distant past in many ways. They have a Council that makes all the decisions, but there is no democracy. They don't use TV or radios, don't (except a lucky few) use mobile phones, they marry quite young and according to the rules of the society, and they are virgins until marriage. Some people in the society are excited by Narissa's outspoken ways and modern mannerisms, but like all fish-out-of-water stories, Narissa quickly finds that some people don't like her messing with their perfect world at all. In a town so small and with rules so strict, Narissa finds herself in trouble with some frequency, much to the reader's amusement.
Without telling you much more, the things that come to mind for me as far as comparisons go include:
A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court - Because the Refuge society is almost medieval in some ways the culture gap is a major issue.
Pleasantville - Because a lot of the controversy centers around individual liberties (like voting, freedom to marry by choice, and freedom of speech) and sexual freedom, I am reminded of this fabulous movie.
I don't want to give away too much except to say that the story is a page-turner. There will be many twists, including Narissa's own complicated decision-making. And when you get to the last page you'll be ordering the next book...
December 7, 2011
i @#%! hate cliffhangers! i finished this in a nearly silent study hall and when i found out that that was it, i think i actually screamed. but i got the second one right away, so its all good. i'm still kind of freakin' out about it though... :)
December 4, 2023
This is probably going to be a terrible comparison (I AM terrible at comparisons!), but I couldn't stop thinking about Alice in Wonderland meets Silo.
Narissa finds herself stuck in a self-sufficient colony where no one knows how they came to be there, and all the information about the entrance/exit has either been lost or hidden.
In her search for a way back into her life and her younger sister, she works alongside her new friends, who are happy with their peaceful lives in this isolated sanctuary but want some answers.
A slow-burn romance and her indecision hinder Narissa from achieving her goal, but in the end who wouldn't think twice about returning to a place where she was unhappy when all the joy she ever wanted will be lost once she leaves this mysterious place?
An exciting and original story, but with characters that make me feel I probably shouldn't be reading Young Adult books so often.
Narissa finds herself stuck in a self-sufficient colony where no one knows how they came to be there, and all the information about the entrance/exit has either been lost or hidden.
In her search for a way back into her life and her younger sister, she works alongside her new friends, who are happy with their peaceful lives in this isolated sanctuary but want some answers.
A slow-burn romance and her indecision hinder Narissa from achieving her goal, but in the end who wouldn't think twice about returning to a place where she was unhappy when all the joy she ever wanted will be lost once she leaves this mysterious place?
An exciting and original story, but with characters that make me feel I probably shouldn't be reading Young Adult books so often.
November 29, 2011
This book had a very interesting premise to it. Narissa is a teenage girl, uprooted from her troubled home life and annexed into another realm called The Refuge. Here, a small plot of Utopia is runned by The Council and life is much simpler. While trying to find a way back home to her younger sister, Narissa emerses herself into The Refuge, becoming a type of 'foster child' to a loving family and undertaking certain responsibilities in the town. Unbeknownst to her, Narissa begins falling in love with life at The Refuge, along with a certain council member, that makes her decision to stay or leave that much harder.
I really enjoyed the originality of Annexed. The book was very creative as it centered around this alternate universe, reminiscent of The Village. At the Refuge, life is much simpler and people (for the most part) much kinder. However, the Council is very involved with the everyday runnings of its people, instilling unnatural fears, such as swimming in open water and internet access, into the town as an undermining way of controlling them. Its a very seedy government that opens a lot of questions to the reader and leaves you wondering what they are trying to hide.
I appreciated how the main character, Narissa, was bold enough to stand up to the Council. Personally, I would have expected anyone to be cowering in fear after being transported to the Refuge, but Narissa holds fast to her own beliefs and isn't one to be bullied. She's definitely a strong character with even stronger beliefs. I found it a little questionable how easily Narissa adapted to her new life in the Refuge however. With such a drastic life change, it seemed a bit unrealistic how fluid the transition was for her. Its hard to believe anyone could be THAT strong.
The relationships Narissa builds with other characters was executed perfectly. Particularly the progression between Narissa and her love interest Damon. Everyone knows that one of my greatest pet peeves is insta-love, so it was refreshing to see Narissa and Damon build their relationship first. It was really sweet to pick up on the small clues of Damon's feelings while reading Annexed, such as him building Narissa a desk and decorating her work space. It was like being a new relationship myself: denying the other person's feelings at first and then having that big 'ahaa' moment when he reveals his true feelings.
This book has definitely been one of my favorite Indie reviews so far. The story is engrossing and well planned so that every detail has its own purpose. There is plenty of romance, mystery, and emotion tucked away in the pages of Annexed that is sure to fill any book lover's imagination. The creativity and originality of the story is inspiring and leaves the door wide open for a thrilling series.
I really enjoyed the originality of Annexed. The book was very creative as it centered around this alternate universe, reminiscent of The Village. At the Refuge, life is much simpler and people (for the most part) much kinder. However, the Council is very involved with the everyday runnings of its people, instilling unnatural fears, such as swimming in open water and internet access, into the town as an undermining way of controlling them. Its a very seedy government that opens a lot of questions to the reader and leaves you wondering what they are trying to hide.
I appreciated how the main character, Narissa, was bold enough to stand up to the Council. Personally, I would have expected anyone to be cowering in fear after being transported to the Refuge, but Narissa holds fast to her own beliefs and isn't one to be bullied. She's definitely a strong character with even stronger beliefs. I found it a little questionable how easily Narissa adapted to her new life in the Refuge however. With such a drastic life change, it seemed a bit unrealistic how fluid the transition was for her. Its hard to believe anyone could be THAT strong.
The relationships Narissa builds with other characters was executed perfectly. Particularly the progression between Narissa and her love interest Damon. Everyone knows that one of my greatest pet peeves is insta-love, so it was refreshing to see Narissa and Damon build their relationship first. It was really sweet to pick up on the small clues of Damon's feelings while reading Annexed, such as him building Narissa a desk and decorating her work space. It was like being a new relationship myself: denying the other person's feelings at first and then having that big 'ahaa' moment when he reveals his true feelings.
This book has definitely been one of my favorite Indie reviews so far. The story is engrossing and well planned so that every detail has its own purpose. There is plenty of romance, mystery, and emotion tucked away in the pages of Annexed that is sure to fill any book lover's imagination. The creativity and originality of the story is inspiring and leaves the door wide open for a thrilling series.
March 1, 2012
This is a 3 1/2 star book (in my opinion). I liked it and will probably read the rest of the trilogy, but hope the next two books are better than this one. The concept is what is carrying me along as well as the cliffhanger in the final chapter.
The downside:
Neither the characters nor the plot showed much depth in this opening book of the trilogy. Everything seems to float upon the surface.
I have vague general ideas of what the characters look like but don't remember having a true description of anyone by Daman and that was near then end when the author made me picture Matthew Bomer with dark brown eyes.
The vernacular is supposed to be slightly confusing to Narissa. However, the only words used were kinky, skink, collops, and aye. And they were used so infrequently by the natives of The Refuge that it was very awkward to read them.
The Refuge itself is very confusing. It is described as a city with cobblestone roads and cottages. But the cottages have decks and modern conveniences like electricity and plumbing.
The way of life is odd too. Granted it is supposed to be, but I get settled in to thinking one way then am broad sided with a description of drugstores and cafes.
Narissa is also an enigma...she thinks internally about her fighting skills and other survival skills, but doesn't use them expect to surprise her friends. She talks about her unmotherly mother and her unwise decisions and taking care of her sister, but we don't get any details about that until she's been in the Refuge for a month or more.
Daman and the Refuge inhabitants are also just blips of people.
The chapters move along episodically only to start smoothing together near then end. Then between the last two chapters you start one place then WHAM you find yourself back in another with no exposition as to what happened or how they got where they were so quickly.
The upside:
Kauri (especially) and Mac seem to be loyal friends to Narissa.
The last chapter makes you do a 180 so that you question every conjecture you've made to that point. Also made me want to give the next book a try.
Does the up balance the down? Well, considering my mind is thinking up all sorts of questions regarding the relationships and who can and can't be trusted and the desire to know who, what, where, when, and how Narissa is now...yes, it does.
The downside:
Neither the characters nor the plot showed much depth in this opening book of the trilogy. Everything seems to float upon the surface.
I have vague general ideas of what the characters look like but don't remember having a true description of anyone by Daman and that was near then end when the author made me picture Matthew Bomer with dark brown eyes.
The vernacular is supposed to be slightly confusing to Narissa. However, the only words used were kinky, skink, collops, and aye. And they were used so infrequently by the natives of The Refuge that it was very awkward to read them.
The Refuge itself is very confusing. It is described as a city with cobblestone roads and cottages. But the cottages have decks and modern conveniences like electricity and plumbing.
The way of life is odd too. Granted it is supposed to be, but I get settled in to thinking one way then am broad sided with a description of drugstores and cafes.
Narissa is also an enigma...she thinks internally about her fighting skills and other survival skills, but doesn't use them expect to surprise her friends. She talks about her unmotherly mother and her unwise decisions and taking care of her sister, but we don't get any details about that until she's been in the Refuge for a month or more.
Daman and the Refuge inhabitants are also just blips of people.
The chapters move along episodically only to start smoothing together near then end. Then between the last two chapters you start one place then WHAM you find yourself back in another with no exposition as to what happened or how they got where they were so quickly.
The upside:
Kauri (especially) and Mac seem to be loyal friends to Narissa.
The last chapter makes you do a 180 so that you question every conjecture you've made to that point. Also made me want to give the next book a try.
Does the up balance the down? Well, considering my mind is thinking up all sorts of questions regarding the relationships and who can and can't be trusted and the desire to know who, what, where, when, and how Narissa is now...yes, it does.
February 22, 2012
My review of Annexed can also be found here: Review of Annexed by Rebecca McKinnon
I really enjoyed this book! It was nothing like I thought it would be, it was better! So lets start off with The Refuge. The Refuge is like... I don't know how to describe it, like an alternate dimension. They have their own place, and when they need more space they Annex it, but only things with a certain venom in their DNA are annexed with the land. Which made it really odd that Narissa somehow ended up being annexed. Anyways, back to The Refuge. In The Refuge, there is no religions, nothing that could cause wars (which is a really smart idea if you think about it). Also, things are much more simpler there. Only the council has cell phones and full access to computers. The public has limited access to computers. Which even though I absolutely love my technology, sounds really nice. Not having to keep up with always changing technology and whatnot. The council is who makes the decisions for The Refuge. They claim to be a Democracy but the way we would see it is more of a Dictatorship, but not completely. Like in some ways it is, some ways it isnt.
Narissa! At first she was dead set on getting out of The Refuge and back home. Which is completely understandable seeing as her sister was left with what everyone would agree with as an unfit mom. But as she started working with Daman and making friends she gets torn. She wants to find a way back to her sister but at the same time she wants to stay and be with the person she's falling in love with. On the topic of Daman, he was not friendly much before Narissa showed up. As they got closer she changed him, not on purpose either. He just started being nicer to everyone as he and Narissa got closer. That is a good change. People have had that effect on me before and it was for the better too so I totally loved that. Decisions like that suck so much! I completely understood why she was torn between the two choices. Especially when she found a way back home, she made a really hard choice leaving. But OMG!!!! Whose hand was on her shoulder at the end after she got home?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! I have my suspicions, I hope their right!
I really enjoyed this book! It was nothing like I thought it would be, it was better! So lets start off with The Refuge. The Refuge is like... I don't know how to describe it, like an alternate dimension. They have their own place, and when they need more space they Annex it, but only things with a certain venom in their DNA are annexed with the land. Which made it really odd that Narissa somehow ended up being annexed. Anyways, back to The Refuge. In The Refuge, there is no religions, nothing that could cause wars (which is a really smart idea if you think about it). Also, things are much more simpler there. Only the council has cell phones and full access to computers. The public has limited access to computers. Which even though I absolutely love my technology, sounds really nice. Not having to keep up with always changing technology and whatnot. The council is who makes the decisions for The Refuge. They claim to be a Democracy but the way we would see it is more of a Dictatorship, but not completely. Like in some ways it is, some ways it isnt.
Narissa! At first she was dead set on getting out of The Refuge and back home. Which is completely understandable seeing as her sister was left with what everyone would agree with as an unfit mom. But as she started working with Daman and making friends she gets torn. She wants to find a way back to her sister but at the same time she wants to stay and be with the person she's falling in love with. On the topic of Daman, he was not friendly much before Narissa showed up. As they got closer she changed him, not on purpose either. He just started being nicer to everyone as he and Narissa got closer. That is a good change. People have had that effect on me before and it was for the better too so I totally loved that. Decisions like that suck so much! I completely understood why she was torn between the two choices. Especially when she found a way back home, she made a really hard choice leaving. But OMG!!!! Whose hand was on her shoulder at the end after she got home?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! I have my suspicions, I hope their right!
November 30, 2011
This book was so imaginative with this level of realism that I was not expecting. McKinnon creates this well thought out world that is just different enough to give that level of mystery but also doesn't through out main character Narissa off balance.
This book throws you into the action, which is great because it grabs your attention, but for the first two or so chapters had me trying to catch up. The rest of the book isn't quite as fast paced but still held my attention because of the choices that Narissa had to make. There is a lack of confrontation meaning that this book isn't the most dramatic and the bulk of this book is about Narissa's choice.
My favorite character has to be Mac and I think he may have been overlooked in the book, he would have been a much better romantic interest for Narissa despite his insistence that she was 'like a sister'. That's not to say that i didn't like Daman, I loved seeing him come out from his shell and develop a relationship with Narissa! I really enjoyed the rate at which the relationship developed, as well as how it happened.
Narissa was a pretty good main character. One thing that did bother me was how little she fought when she found out that she was stuck in The refuge, I think she could have taken more time to accept it. Afterwards though, she was a believable main character with a spunky, rebellious side which I really enjoyed, she never annoyed me either.
Overall, Annexed was a great start to a series which didn't have a lot of action but still grabbed me due to the storyline and characters.
Overall Rating: B
This book throws you into the action, which is great because it grabs your attention, but for the first two or so chapters had me trying to catch up. The rest of the book isn't quite as fast paced but still held my attention because of the choices that Narissa had to make. There is a lack of confrontation meaning that this book isn't the most dramatic and the bulk of this book is about Narissa's choice.
My favorite character has to be Mac and I think he may have been overlooked in the book, he would have been a much better romantic interest for Narissa despite his insistence that she was 'like a sister'. That's not to say that i didn't like Daman, I loved seeing him come out from his shell and develop a relationship with Narissa! I really enjoyed the rate at which the relationship developed, as well as how it happened.
Narissa was a pretty good main character. One thing that did bother me was how little she fought when she found out that she was stuck in The refuge, I think she could have taken more time to accept it. Afterwards though, she was a believable main character with a spunky, rebellious side which I really enjoyed, she never annoyed me either.
Overall, Annexed was a great start to a series which didn't have a lot of action but still grabbed me due to the storyline and characters.
Overall Rating: B
August 24, 2011
At first this story confused me, because the author takes very little time to jump into the main story, and I felt like I was running behind trying to catch up. Once I did though, it was a really interesting take on science fiction, alternate reality, and society. I didn’t feel that the undertones pertaining to society were politically or religiously motivated which allowed me to draw my own feelings about the authors words, and I appreciated that immensely. Narissa is a great character that deals with an internal struggle that has you up and down with her on the emotional roller coaster, and since I know this is a series I am looking forward to seeing what she does next. It was great to see her be so intelligent as well as loyal, even when she didn’t have a leg to stand on in some cases. The other players are really great additions to her story, and I didn’t feel that people were written in to have specific roles of sidekick, or love-interest, they developed into those relationships with time throughout the story, just as they would in “real” life. There were several poignant statements made in this novel, and I enjoyed the fact that the author wasn’t afraid to go there, and at the same time didn’t take it over the top and shove opinions in the reader’s face. My only dislike is that I don’t know when the next installment is coming out, and I am eager to see where the story goes!
Reviewed by Gabi for Book Sake.
Reviewed by Gabi for Book Sake.
May 28, 2012
This is an interesting book. For some reason, I thought (or maybe just hoped) it would be a bit heavier on its science fiction aspects than its chick-lit aspects. The author develops an alternative culture to ours, but set in our space/time, with a mysterious sort of wall that keeps outsiders out and insiders in. Somehow the main character (an outsider) gets inside, and the story takes off from there.
One aspect that detracted a bit, in my opinion, was the description of a moneyless, barterless economic system, in which people just took what they needed from those who had it. And, if no one had it, one could order it from "outside" via the internet, paid for by the community somehow. In practice, such a system would not be the utopia described, but the "tragedy of the commons", as has been demonstrated in real-life "utopias" time after time.
Also, the ending was very blunt and undetermined -- it is the first book of a trilogy, so one has to expect a cliffhanger to some extent -- but this one is quite blatant. Just a warning for those (like me) who intended to read the first book but not the rest.
As seems so typical these days, the proofreading could have been better -- there were no misspelled words, but there were several places where the wrong word or tense was used.
One aspect that detracted a bit, in my opinion, was the description of a moneyless, barterless economic system, in which people just took what they needed from those who had it. And, if no one had it, one could order it from "outside" via the internet, paid for by the community somehow. In practice, such a system would not be the utopia described, but the "tragedy of the commons", as has been demonstrated in real-life "utopias" time after time.
Also, the ending was very blunt and undetermined -- it is the first book of a trilogy, so one has to expect a cliffhanger to some extent -- but this one is quite blatant. Just a warning for those (like me) who intended to read the first book but not the rest.
As seems so typical these days, the proofreading could have been better -- there were no misspelled words, but there were several places where the wrong word or tense was used.
October 24, 2011
This is one of the better edited self-published novels I've ever read. McKinnon's style of writing is light and refreshing. When I finished reading the 1st chapter of Annexed, I was bouncing up and down in my seat, excited to see what would happen.
So why only 3 stars? I should mention up front that I only made it to page 50 before I stopped reading. Half was the believability... or the lack thereof. The protagonist was WAY too accepting of HUGE change in lifestyle. Actually, accepting probably isn't the right word. It's almost as if she was oblivious to the fact. Her desire to escape was severely lacking. The other half of my 3-star rating was the lack of tension. There was nothing in the story that kept me wanting to read. I just couldn't immerse myself into a world that didn't seem "real."
After reading many other reviews, I realize that the story might pick up later in the book, but I don't have the time or desire to push through and find out. I figure a 3-star rating is fair middle ground.
So why only 3 stars? I should mention up front that I only made it to page 50 before I stopped reading. Half was the believability... or the lack thereof. The protagonist was WAY too accepting of HUGE change in lifestyle. Actually, accepting probably isn't the right word. It's almost as if she was oblivious to the fact. Her desire to escape was severely lacking. The other half of my 3-star rating was the lack of tension. There was nothing in the story that kept me wanting to read. I just couldn't immerse myself into a world that didn't seem "real."
After reading many other reviews, I realize that the story might pick up later in the book, but I don't have the time or desire to push through and find out. I figure a 3-star rating is fair middle ground.
November 7, 2011
This was a great book, Narissa finds herself in The Refuge, at first she is confused and wanting to go home. She finds that won't happen for a while. She tries to make the best of it, she makes friends with Mac who she ends up living with his parents. She also meets Daman who forms an unlikely friendship. She also wrongs Crissy, who is out to get Narissa into all sorts of trouble.
Narissa also has to be careful not to corrupt the locals with what she knows and as she learns their history she learns they spend most of their time living in fear in certain situations. Not treading to far in the water, as one example. Also seeking the council for every question they have. Narissa is able to sneak in one thing from our world, an ipod. Narissa does form great friendships with the people around her, which is more than she had in our world. Her big regret is her sister she left behind.
Definitely a great book really pulls you in wanting you to know more of their world and whether Narissa will ever get out of The Refuge or will she stay forever.
Narissa also has to be careful not to corrupt the locals with what she knows and as she learns their history she learns they spend most of their time living in fear in certain situations. Not treading to far in the water, as one example. Also seeking the council for every question they have. Narissa is able to sneak in one thing from our world, an ipod. Narissa does form great friendships with the people around her, which is more than she had in our world. Her big regret is her sister she left behind.
Definitely a great book really pulls you in wanting you to know more of their world and whether Narissa will ever get out of The Refuge or will she stay forever.
August 20, 2011
I thought this was a very interesting read. McKinnon has created an alternate world of sorts in which a group of people physically removed themselves from the world in order to start over. It’s a really cool concept, and the explanations McKinnon gives are imaginative and very well thought out. The Refuge, as it is called, resides way out in the mountains and is protected by a dense wall of fog, keeping unwanted visitors out, that is, except Narissa, who somehow ends up inside the Refuge, discombobulated and hurt. The explanations continue, and it’s a really cool idea/concept, somewhat reminding me of the movie The Village in which everyone resides inside a barrier in a park, unknowingly hiding from the real world. I loved The Village, and I really enjoyed this novel as well...
To read my full review (9/22):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
To read my full review (9/22):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
December 25, 2011
This book got me hooked almost from the beginning. It is about a 17 year old girl, Narissa, and the alternate reality that she confusingly finds herself trapped in. Narissa is a well-fleshed out character who really makes you care about her and her journey. The book starts out where she suddenly finds herself out in the woods, injured, and sure that she is being followed. She learns rather quickly that she isn't in "Kansas" anymore. She is now in a place called The Refuge and she doesn't know if she will ever get back to her own reality.
Most of the characters that Narissa meets are very interesting. The only ones I felt could have used some more dimensions were the two oldest people on the counsel.
This was a fun ride and I look forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy. If the journey is as interesting and the characters as real as in book one, then I know that I will be thoroughly entertained.
Most of the characters that Narissa meets are very interesting. The only ones I felt could have used some more dimensions were the two oldest people on the counsel.
This was a fun ride and I look forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy. If the journey is as interesting and the characters as real as in book one, then I know that I will be thoroughly entertained.
September 14, 2012
I didn't get interested in the story until maybe the second chapter. At first, I was confused and thought this is just a new author who was struggling with developing the plot but when Narissa meets Daman, things changed. Daman was enigmatic and it showed. Even without a blatant description of his appearance, the reader can easily imagine him as someone who has dark wavy hair and brooding eyes--the kind that ladies fawn over. The fact that he was a bit of a loner made him all the more appealing. I liked how Narissa disliked him at first sight and then changed her view after she got to know him better; it's a feeling that I can relate to all too well. Once Narissa started discovering the mysteries of this unknown world, I couldn't put the book down. In short, I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would and I definitely recommend this book for audiences 12+.
July 25, 2011
I had planned to read this book little by little but I got so involved in the story and so attached to the characters that I stayed up almost all night to finish it- and then started over again! The characters have fun personalities and are full of life. The culture found within the Refuge is creative as it supports and defines the characters. The story is engaging and kept me eagerly involved to the end. The struggle Narissa faces when choosing between helping her sister or living the life she so desperately wants seems like a reflection of choices made by so many in real life. I loved watching Daman creep out of his shell and start to find his own life again.
I love this book and I need to know what happens next!
I love this book and I need to know what happens next!
July 2, 2011
I'm totally biased because the author of this book is a very special friend of mine! But I usually rate books on how much I cared about the characters, how hard it was to put down, and how much I wanted to keep on reading when it was over...and her book did all of those things! It was a fun adventure with a little mystery and romance (my favorite formula for fun reads) and I could seriously read it in one sitting (if only my children would let me)! I can't wait to have book 2 and book 3 on my shelf too!
August 16, 2011
I am not sure how to review this book. It was a really good story. I think it will get more interesting as more books come out and my thoughts aren't left hanging. I would probably appreciate it better if I didn't have to wait for the next book... LOL! We all hate a wait, right. :) Overall good writing, good story, strong characters. I will be purchasing for our libraries. The Author is very kind too! :)
February 8, 2012
"Annexed" is a delightful story about a young woman who finds herself in a culture just different enough to keep her off balance. She must learn how to stand up to prying busybodies, jealous young men, and politicians used to nearly blind obedience. Ultimately her biggest challenge is her own emotions, torn between love and duty, so torn she sometimes can't see what's right in front of her ... like most of us at her age.
J. Z. Colby, author of the NEBADOR series
J. Z. Colby, author of the NEBADOR series
July 22, 2011
Yes I'm biased. I'll admit that right at the start. The author is an amazing person that I'm also able to call a friend. That aside...this book is still great! I loved it the first time I read it as a rough, rough draft. I was walking on the treadmill and reading at the same time. Let's just say it was a great workout because I couldn't stop reading. I'm so excited for books two and three!
August 10, 2011
5 Stars! This is one of those books that have you hanging on the edge of your seat just waiting to turn another page and find out what happens next. It is one of the best books I have ever read and I think the author should be very proud of herself. I would read every book this author wrote without hesitation. Great Job! BRAVO!
July 1, 2011
I honestly am rating this as if I didn't know the author. I can't wait to read the final edit of this and am going to read it and then do a real review, because a lot of things have changed through the drafts.... can't wait!!!
August 4, 2011
I started this book this morning and couldn't put it down. It was really well written. The characters were nicely developed and the plot went smoothly. I am really looking forward to the next book to see what happens.
August 8, 2015
This was one good book!! I loved Annexed from start to finish. (It takes real talent to hold the attention like that)The characters, and plot made it so difficult to put down. I can't wait for the next book to come out. This author has a long, positive career ahead!!
November 9, 2011
Loved this book. I must say it starts out slow and you will be thinking I am up in the night but give it a couple of chapters and you will be in love with this book. It has twists and turns and is so fun. I am ready for the next one:)
July 19, 2011
Excellent, Can't wait for the next one!
August 17, 2011
Well written, great character development! Cant wait to read the next one!
Goodreads firstreads winner
Goodreads firstreads winner
August 21, 2011
excited to read the next one.
July 30, 2011
FANTASTIC...... great job Becky!!! I can't believe I know a real live author :)
October 25, 2011
I am excited to see what happens next! Thanks to my buddy Lori for mailing me a copy!
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