Results: Finalized. Participants: Terminated. The Research Facility has always operated under such regulations. The underground lab is notorious for exploiting humans without consequence, but when sixteen-year-old Keeley becomes their next ‘participant’, she is determined to break out. The windowless halls and high surveillance make the feat seem impossible, and trying to outwit the staff is unlikely for the man behind the operation is closer to Keeley than she realizes. Right when all hope seems lost, the experiment destined to be Keeley’s doom gives rise to an extraordinary power within her. The doors begin to rattle when she is frightened, the lights flicker as tears gather in her eyes, and a strange energy lurks within her mind. Keeley knows she must escape before her power is discovered, but it soon becomes evident that there is more at stake than her own life. She must bring down the entire Facility, but to do so, she has to learn to trust herself and her new ability.
The blurb of this one looked great and it definitely delivered. Another one where the characters made sensible choices or at least what you would expect a teenager to do in certain situations.
I really enjoyed seeing things from both Keeley and Marcus' points of view - plus the emotions they all went through, including the new characters met along the way, were interesting. I loved the attitude of the researchers, it made for brutal reading and, warning, there are some gruesome scenes - the fact that humans are nothing more than lab rats to them...
It does start a bit slowly as you meet them in high school - but stick with it as it ramps up soon. I also guessed something early on, but that didn't detract from anything.
Overall, this was addictive and I wholeheartedly recommend it. I can't wait to see what the author produces next.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I knew this was going to be an awesome read just from reading the first scene. The writing was clear and the scene was easy to visualize and it felt like I was right with Marcus and Keeley on the field! I'm going to leave details out to avoid spoilers but this is definitely a young adult suspense sci-fi vibe. I had to remind myself to breath for a few scenes because you really can't predict what is happening next. There are a lot of time jumps in the book but once you get through the first two or so you will start to connect the dots. I look forward to reading more from this author and I would be glad to recommend The Control for all who are interested in this genre!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a good YA supernatural /sci-fi book, a genre I really enjoy reading. The blurb instantly drew me in, and the book did not disappoint. I felt like Keely was a bright, savvy, and likable main character, and her decisions drove the plot well. Marcus provided a lot to the book that I wasn't expecting. While his character isn't quite as strong-willed and assertive as Keely, his character adds a lot to the plot. I recommend this book to people who enjoy YA novels. I received this book as an arc, but I look forward to reading more by this author.