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The Industry #1
The Industry
Kirra Hayward is an ordinary sixteen year old - smarter than most, but otherwise completely anonymous. When she stumbles across an unusual puzzle on the internet and manages to solve it, she has no idea of what she's letting herself in for. Kidnapped by a shadowy organisation known only as The Industry, Kirra soon discovers how valuable her code-breaking skills are. And when she stubbornly refuses to help them, they decide to break her ... by any means at their disposal. Kirra knows that to protect herself, she must trust no one, not even her fellow prisoner, Milo. But as time goes by she realises he might be the only person she can rely on ...
312 pages, Paperback
First published March 20, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
June 11, 2012
Kirra makes no bones about being a real teenage girl. She get subjected to hell and, amazingly for this genre, she doesn't instantly transform into some crazy gun-slinging brave-going-on-cold-blooded-hero but that doesn't make her a wet blanket either, she's not sitting back and waiting. Prepare to not only devour The Industry but be begging Ms Foster to get her skates on and publish the next one!
April 28, 2017
The Industry is a network of criminals who will take on any job, as long as the price is right. Available work for those in The Industry has fallen into a sharp decline when the Spencer Code - a security measure - was put in place by most businesses. When it was discovered that the only known person who could crack the code - the creator himself - committed suicide to stop anyone coming after him, a man named Latham sets up a website containing the code and a submissions box, in the hopes of finding someone else out there that might be able to, well, crack the code.
Kirra Hayward is only sixteen, but she's nothing shy of normal. At Freemont Grammar, Kirra excels at both mathematics and science, and is taking classes at a grade twelve level. When her maths class is assigned the project of creating a mathematical puzzle, and knowing her time would be wasted on something so trivial, Kirra searches online for a puzzle to copy.
Stumbling upon a website titled Crack the Code, Kirra finds a page which is simply a series of jumbled letters and numbers, and a text submission box. Given no instructions, Kirra is ready to dismiss the page, when as if by instinct, a number jumps out at her, followed by another and another. Typing them into the box as they appear, she's soon left with a fourteen-character code. After submitting the answer, she's disappointed to find that nothing happened, and so she simply logs off and continues on with her life, unaware that she'll be kidnapped in just a few days time...
My biggest issue with this book is that I didn't connect with Kirra in any way. I mean, we don't learn a whole lot about who she is as a person, other than the fact that she's very smart. It almost felt as though she was a secondary character, and that she was just holding the place until the main character made an appearance. Now, the lack of knowledge about her character could have just been because she's not much of a people person, but it still would have been nice to see a more fleshed-out MC.
I will say that I admired her strength and resilience, though. With the click of a button, she's become the most sought-after person on earth. Whilst that guarantees that she'll be kept alive at all costs, it doesn't mean that the living conditions in which she's kept are desirable. Left in a freezing cell in the middle of Winter, time slowly ticks away, and Kirra is only brought out when she's needed to help with a code.
The pacing of this novel felt all over the place, and was often very confusing. A great portion of the novel focuses on Kirra's time spent in a cell. As you read, you get the impression that she's only been held there for a number of days, or a fortnight at most. But then there will be a mention of months having passed, and it completely throws you off balance. I really appreciated the plot twists that were thrown in here and there, even if I did see a number of them coming. They helped to break up the story a bit, and peak my interest when it was waning.
Overall, despite it's ingenious cover design (the image is made up of the code!!! can you believe that?!!), I was somewhat disappointed by The Industry. It had great potential, and with an endorsement by Michael Grant, I was expecting so much more. It felt very much like a set-up for another novel (The Estate), and whilst that set-up was great, I unfortunately have no desire to continue on with this series.
Kirra Hayward is only sixteen, but she's nothing shy of normal. At Freemont Grammar, Kirra excels at both mathematics and science, and is taking classes at a grade twelve level. When her maths class is assigned the project of creating a mathematical puzzle, and knowing her time would be wasted on something so trivial, Kirra searches online for a puzzle to copy.
Stumbling upon a website titled Crack the Code, Kirra finds a page which is simply a series of jumbled letters and numbers, and a text submission box. Given no instructions, Kirra is ready to dismiss the page, when as if by instinct, a number jumps out at her, followed by another and another. Typing them into the box as they appear, she's soon left with a fourteen-character code. After submitting the answer, she's disappointed to find that nothing happened, and so she simply logs off and continues on with her life, unaware that she'll be kidnapped in just a few days time...
My biggest issue with this book is that I didn't connect with Kirra in any way. I mean, we don't learn a whole lot about who she is as a person, other than the fact that she's very smart. It almost felt as though she was a secondary character, and that she was just holding the place until the main character made an appearance. Now, the lack of knowledge about her character could have just been because she's not much of a people person, but it still would have been nice to see a more fleshed-out MC.
I will say that I admired her strength and resilience, though. With the click of a button, she's become the most sought-after person on earth. Whilst that guarantees that she'll be kept alive at all costs, it doesn't mean that the living conditions in which she's kept are desirable. Left in a freezing cell in the middle of Winter, time slowly ticks away, and Kirra is only brought out when she's needed to help with a code.
The pacing of this novel felt all over the place, and was often very confusing. A great portion of the novel focuses on Kirra's time spent in a cell. As you read, you get the impression that she's only been held there for a number of days, or a fortnight at most. But then there will be a mention of months having passed, and it completely throws you off balance. I really appreciated the plot twists that were thrown in here and there, even if I did see a number of them coming. They helped to break up the story a bit, and peak my interest when it was waning.
Overall, despite it's ingenious cover design (the image is made up of the code!!! can you believe that?!!), I was somewhat disappointed by The Industry. It had great potential, and with an endorsement by Michael Grant, I was expecting so much more. It felt very much like a set-up for another novel (The Estate), and whilst that set-up was great, I unfortunately have no desire to continue on with this series.
April 18, 2012
Review originally posted in: http://forget8me8not.blogspot.com.au/...
Cover:
It's absolutely cool! I love how the codes are forming the girl's face, the dark background and it gives this cryptic feeling!
Story:
Can you break the code?
Kirra Hayward is just your average student. Well, she is a bit more than average. Even though she is only sixteen, she is taking 2 extension classes because she is just that good. One day, her teacher gives her an assignment to make puzzles. Kirra thinks it's really lame but when she goes to the Internet and types puzzles, she clicks a website which turns out to be just a page with numbers. Kirra finds the numbers interesting and starts decoding it and submits her answer. When she clicks submit, nothing happens, not even a 'congratulations, you are correct' statement. Kirra never thought that the moment she clicks submit, she is The Industry's target and they want her for her code-breaking skills...
I have heard great things about The Industry from other Aussie bloggers and I was really excited to read it but sadly, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. The book is still enjoyable and I love the concept, but it's not a 5 stars book for me. This book is written from Kirra's POV. I love the premise of The Industry, a girl kidnapped because she can break codes? Count me in! Although, when I read the book, I wasn't quite hooked into the story. The first 150 pages of the book felt slow to me. The last 50 pages though were really exciting! I was completely hooked because it was fast-paced and so many new things are happening. What I loved the most from this book was the actions. This book is filled with awesome actions and gun-fights. The ending made me really dying to get my hands on The Estate!
Characters:
Kirra is a very intelligent character and I definitely adore her. It's quite rare to see female code-breakers and it makes her an awesome character. I can understand how she feels, from being just a regular student to a highly targeted code breaker and I love her relationship with Milo. I love how their relationship develops from just a cellmate to something more. Milo is a very unpredictable character. I thought he was just an innocent young man who like Kirra was kidnapped by The Industry but I never thought he was more than that. He is a very intriguing character and I am definitely looking forward to read more about him in the next book. Latham, Kirra's kidnapper is also a very interesting antagonist. Overall, I think the characters are quite well-written!
Overall:
The Industry is an exciting book filled with actions, fighting scenes and explores what it means to be a code-breaker with a touch of romance! Even though the story felt slow and didn't quite hook me, it was still an enjoyable book!
Thank you Harper Collins Australia for the review copy!
Cover:
It's absolutely cool! I love how the codes are forming the girl's face, the dark background and it gives this cryptic feeling!
Story:
Can you break the code?
Kirra Hayward is just your average student. Well, she is a bit more than average. Even though she is only sixteen, she is taking 2 extension classes because she is just that good. One day, her teacher gives her an assignment to make puzzles. Kirra thinks it's really lame but when she goes to the Internet and types puzzles, she clicks a website which turns out to be just a page with numbers. Kirra finds the numbers interesting and starts decoding it and submits her answer. When she clicks submit, nothing happens, not even a 'congratulations, you are correct' statement. Kirra never thought that the moment she clicks submit, she is The Industry's target and they want her for her code-breaking skills...
I have heard great things about The Industry from other Aussie bloggers and I was really excited to read it but sadly, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. The book is still enjoyable and I love the concept, but it's not a 5 stars book for me. This book is written from Kirra's POV. I love the premise of The Industry, a girl kidnapped because she can break codes? Count me in! Although, when I read the book, I wasn't quite hooked into the story. The first 150 pages of the book felt slow to me. The last 50 pages though were really exciting! I was completely hooked because it was fast-paced and so many new things are happening. What I loved the most from this book was the actions. This book is filled with awesome actions and gun-fights. The ending made me really dying to get my hands on The Estate!
Characters:
Kirra is a very intelligent character and I definitely adore her. It's quite rare to see female code-breakers and it makes her an awesome character. I can understand how she feels, from being just a regular student to a highly targeted code breaker and I love her relationship with Milo. I love how their relationship develops from just a cellmate to something more. Milo is a very unpredictable character. I thought he was just an innocent young man who like Kirra was kidnapped by The Industry but I never thought he was more than that. He is a very intriguing character and I am definitely looking forward to read more about him in the next book. Latham, Kirra's kidnapper is also a very interesting antagonist. Overall, I think the characters are quite well-written!
Overall:
The Industry is an exciting book filled with actions, fighting scenes and explores what it means to be a code-breaker with a touch of romance! Even though the story felt slow and didn't quite hook me, it was still an enjoyable book!
Thank you Harper Collins Australia for the review copy!
April 6, 2012
This is another really good book, but (spoiler) I didn't like the ending.
MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
Kirra is your average high school student, super smart next to no friends and puts a lot of effort into her school work. So when the first day of school if her first advanced math class teachers tells everyone to create a puzzle or equation as homework, Kirra is less than excited and wants a challenge not to make a puzzle. So like most student who don't like there homework tasks, she goes to the Internet for answers! And she just-so-happens to stumble upon a CRACK THE CODE site. Curious as she is she check it out and turns out she'd easily bet her life on her answer, and maybe in some ways does, only to be disappointed when a 'you are correct' or 'you have passed' doesn't appear she logs out and thinks herself silly.
A simple quest to do her unwanted homework leads to her kidnapping, torture and starvation. This though she can handle if it's to protect innocent people for dying at the hands of her cruel captor and his soulless drug wielding assistant. So you can images her shock to find a boy in the cell she has spent the last few weeks alone, tied up and ending up cell mates or maybe soul mates.
Though there is a connection between these to prisoners, there isn't a lot of romance in this book, but there is a lot of action and criminal type work, this was a great read and I do want to know what happens in the next book.
The only thing stopping this book from being a ten is the ending. It's a pretty sucky ending and no neither Milo nor Kirra die, but it might have been better that way. I would really like to get into detail about the ending and why I didn't like it but if I tell you it would actually ruin the whole book, but if you want to know really badly, well then... Read the Book!!! You won't be very disappointed.
MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
Kirra is your average high school student, super smart next to no friends and puts a lot of effort into her school work. So when the first day of school if her first advanced math class teachers tells everyone to create a puzzle or equation as homework, Kirra is less than excited and wants a challenge not to make a puzzle. So like most student who don't like there homework tasks, she goes to the Internet for answers! And she just-so-happens to stumble upon a CRACK THE CODE site. Curious as she is she check it out and turns out she'd easily bet her life on her answer, and maybe in some ways does, only to be disappointed when a 'you are correct' or 'you have passed' doesn't appear she logs out and thinks herself silly.
A simple quest to do her unwanted homework leads to her kidnapping, torture and starvation. This though she can handle if it's to protect innocent people for dying at the hands of her cruel captor and his soulless drug wielding assistant. So you can images her shock to find a boy in the cell she has spent the last few weeks alone, tied up and ending up cell mates or maybe soul mates.
Though there is a connection between these to prisoners, there isn't a lot of romance in this book, but there is a lot of action and criminal type work, this was a great read and I do want to know what happens in the next book.
The only thing stopping this book from being a ten is the ending. It's a pretty sucky ending and no neither Milo nor Kirra die, but it might have been better that way. I would really like to get into detail about the ending and why I didn't like it but if I tell you it would actually ruin the whole book, but if you want to know really badly, well then... Read the Book!!! You won't be very disappointed.
October 11, 2011
THE INDUSTRY is an addictive, fast-paced, sometimes witty, over-the-edge thriller that will keep you on constant alert and make you wonder what's going to happen next to our Kirra and the fate of mankind. Even with some untrusting alliances, some gun-to-gun action, or simply good old torture with a lesson waiting to be learned, you will never know what to expect when it comes to Rose Foster's epic writing!
Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...
4.5 stars!
Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...
4.5 stars!
May 14, 2012
Kirra is just a normal, average 16yo with a younger sister and brother. She’s excellent at science and maths and tends to be a bit of a social outcast, not at all concerned with things like clothes and boys like her sister. However it turns out that Kirra can do a pretty extraordinary thing… she can crack a code that to almost everyone else, doesn’t even make sense. There’s no explanation for how and why she can do it, she just can.
This makes her very, very valuable to all sorts of people and organisations all over the world. Kidnapped on her way home from school one day, Kirra finds herself taken out of the country and kept in a stark room. She’s fed little information other than the people that have her are criminals, part of a huge operation known as The Industry and that they want to use her and her special skill to help them do their jobs. They’re ‘contractors’ and it seems that nothing is out of bounds if they’re hired by people with the right amount of money.
When she refuses to help them, they threaten her cellmate Milo. Milo is apparently like Kirra in that he too is one of the handful of people all over the world that can crack the code and has also been taken. Reluctant to become involved with anyone, determined to just get away as soon as possible, Kirra does find herself warming to Milo the longer they spend time together. When he is threatened with excruciating pain, she knows she will break her word and help them, no matter that what she’s doing goes against everything she believes in.
Kirra is about to find out that The Industry is bigger and far more complex than she could have possibly dreamed. There are companies and individuals all caught up in it and it’s almost impossible to tell who is friend and who is foe.
The Industry is the first novel in an exciting new series from young Australian author Rose Foster. I didn’t know much about it before I won a copy in a giveaway over at Erin’s blog but when it turned up in the mail I was in the mood for a bit of YA and the premise intrigued me. Kirra is a bit of an outcast at her school, she has no real friends and given that she takes some classes two years above her level (she’s in year 10 but takes math at a year 12 level) she’s also a bit of a target for disdain. Whilst searching online for an assignment, she comes across an interesting puzzle and finds that she thinks she can solve it. After she puts the answer in though nothing happens…until she is kidnapped brutally in broad daylight.
From there Kirra’s normal life turns into an absolute nightmare. I found the idea of The Industry extremely interesting and also very well written without being too over the top and unbelievable. You have to stretch your imagination but in a fun way and I think that Kirra was also well written in the way she tried to cope with her abduction. She has almost no way to know how much time as passed, she has little human contact at first in her cell and the one person who shows her kindness is punished. Then Milo drops into her cell and at first Kirra is openly hostile and reluctant to even talk to him. Milo slowly worms his way in though and given their proximity, Kirra forms an attachment to him.
I do feel that there is a section in this book that lags a fraction, pace wise but the book makes up for that by then really switching it up and executing a neat (not altogether unexpected, but still very skillful) twist that I felt definitely helped change the flow and feel of the story and make it a whole lot more interesting. I felt that Kirra really came into her own as a character towards the end of the book. She realises that her life as she has known it is probably over and that given she’s such a valuable commodity, the potential of putting them in danger if she contacted them was high. She is forced to grow up alarmingly swiftly and I feel that in the next book, she is going to really be a character to watch.
The Industry is really a promising start to what could be a really phenomenal trilogy or series (I’m not sure how many volumes are planned so far). It’s different and I think there’s a lot within it that would appeal – the ability of a character that no one else has, becoming a valuable commodity for both good and evil purposes. You really get a chance to put yourself in Kirra’s shoes. I’m going to be keeping a eye out for the next one.
This makes her very, very valuable to all sorts of people and organisations all over the world. Kidnapped on her way home from school one day, Kirra finds herself taken out of the country and kept in a stark room. She’s fed little information other than the people that have her are criminals, part of a huge operation known as The Industry and that they want to use her and her special skill to help them do their jobs. They’re ‘contractors’ and it seems that nothing is out of bounds if they’re hired by people with the right amount of money.
When she refuses to help them, they threaten her cellmate Milo. Milo is apparently like Kirra in that he too is one of the handful of people all over the world that can crack the code and has also been taken. Reluctant to become involved with anyone, determined to just get away as soon as possible, Kirra does find herself warming to Milo the longer they spend time together. When he is threatened with excruciating pain, she knows she will break her word and help them, no matter that what she’s doing goes against everything she believes in.
Kirra is about to find out that The Industry is bigger and far more complex than she could have possibly dreamed. There are companies and individuals all caught up in it and it’s almost impossible to tell who is friend and who is foe.
The Industry is the first novel in an exciting new series from young Australian author Rose Foster. I didn’t know much about it before I won a copy in a giveaway over at Erin’s blog but when it turned up in the mail I was in the mood for a bit of YA and the premise intrigued me. Kirra is a bit of an outcast at her school, she has no real friends and given that she takes some classes two years above her level (she’s in year 10 but takes math at a year 12 level) she’s also a bit of a target for disdain. Whilst searching online for an assignment, she comes across an interesting puzzle and finds that she thinks she can solve it. After she puts the answer in though nothing happens…until she is kidnapped brutally in broad daylight.
From there Kirra’s normal life turns into an absolute nightmare. I found the idea of The Industry extremely interesting and also very well written without being too over the top and unbelievable. You have to stretch your imagination but in a fun way and I think that Kirra was also well written in the way she tried to cope with her abduction. She has almost no way to know how much time as passed, she has little human contact at first in her cell and the one person who shows her kindness is punished. Then Milo drops into her cell and at first Kirra is openly hostile and reluctant to even talk to him. Milo slowly worms his way in though and given their proximity, Kirra forms an attachment to him.
I do feel that there is a section in this book that lags a fraction, pace wise but the book makes up for that by then really switching it up and executing a neat (not altogether unexpected, but still very skillful) twist that I felt definitely helped change the flow and feel of the story and make it a whole lot more interesting. I felt that Kirra really came into her own as a character towards the end of the book. She realises that her life as she has known it is probably over and that given she’s such a valuable commodity, the potential of putting them in danger if she contacted them was high. She is forced to grow up alarmingly swiftly and I feel that in the next book, she is going to really be a character to watch.
The Industry is really a promising start to what could be a really phenomenal trilogy or series (I’m not sure how many volumes are planned so far). It’s different and I think there’s a lot within it that would appeal – the ability of a character that no one else has, becoming a valuable commodity for both good and evil purposes. You really get a chance to put yourself in Kirra’s shoes. I’m going to be keeping a eye out for the next one.
October 5, 2011
One click of the mouse forever changed the life of Kirra Haywood. She stumbles across a mysterious "Crack the Code!" website and solves the puzzle without a second thought. A week later on her way home from school, she's kidnapped by the people who uploaded the code. Gone without a trace, without a shred of evidence left behind for her family to track her whereabouts. Apparently she's one of the only living people in the world who can decipher the Spencer Code. It's not something you can learn to decrypt, you're either one of the rare individuals who possess this mystifying talent to solve it, or you're not. But why? And how can a 16 year old (even if she is studying maths two years her senior) decipher a code that has baffled the most skilled individuals in the field? And how on earth will she ever escape the cruel, ruthless man who's taken her hostage, when she's become his most valued weapon?
After weeks of imprisonment and torture, Kirra finds she has a new cellmate. Milo Franklyn. I loved the interactions between these two in the beginning. They're not overly friendly toward one another and Milo is so amusingly annoying. Kirra has no real interest in striking a friendship with him, in large part due to events that transpired before he arrived. But Milo is stubbornly persistent and eventually Kirra begins to open up to him. During the months locked away together, a tentative connection grows between the pair. But will they both be to escape alive? And is all as it seems in this scary world they're apart of?
I really felt for Kirra. Her future is totally shattered. The more she learns about the world she's become entangled in, the more she realises she can't ever go back to her family, she can't ever let her guard down or allow people to know who she is because no matter where she goes in the world, the bad guys will be in constant pursuit. Yet despite the unfairness of her situation, I'm excited to see her grow in future books. To learn and train and basically kick some serious ass, because she's already showed she's got it in her. She began to rise up and take control, fight back against those who destroyed her life. And if this is what Rose Foster offered us from her first installment, I'm giddy with excitement to sample the kickass action and twists she'll serve up in the sequel.
Both guys and girls will find themselves completely engrossed in this gripping and action-packed secret world of assassins, extractors, code-breakers and all kinds of criminals.... ah, sorry Desmond, 'criminals' sounds petty, doesn't it? They're Contractors, highly-skilled in their field and 100% certifiably dangerous. The Industry reads like an action-thriller movie, I can already see it making a great film! The secondary characters were all fantastic, but you'll always be second-guessing who to trust. Who is a friend and who is an enemy? I'll just say that I'm particularly fond of those who she does manage to form an alliance with!
The Industry is a highly addictive, witty, edge-of-your-seat thrill-ride that will constantly keep you alert for the next unsuspecting danger or betrayal. Whether it's a gun, a shocking twist or a healthy dose of torture, there is always something awaiting you around the next corner. There's never a dull moment and the action refuses to cease. And when you've finally escaped the fast-paced danger, you'll be bouncing on your heels, eager for another round. The stakes are high and the escapes are narrow. Forget everything about your boring, mundane life - welcome to an exciting, dangerous, pulse-racing world. Welcome to The Industry.
Be sure to check out The Industry's Facebook page where other reviewers will soon be posting their thoughts on this stunning debut novel. Plus it's the place to be for all the latest news and updates in the lead up to release!
After weeks of imprisonment and torture, Kirra finds she has a new cellmate. Milo Franklyn. I loved the interactions between these two in the beginning. They're not overly friendly toward one another and Milo is so amusingly annoying. Kirra has no real interest in striking a friendship with him, in large part due to events that transpired before he arrived. But Milo is stubbornly persistent and eventually Kirra begins to open up to him. During the months locked away together, a tentative connection grows between the pair. But will they both be to escape alive? And is all as it seems in this scary world they're apart of?
I really felt for Kirra. Her future is totally shattered. The more she learns about the world she's become entangled in, the more she realises she can't ever go back to her family, she can't ever let her guard down or allow people to know who she is because no matter where she goes in the world, the bad guys will be in constant pursuit. Yet despite the unfairness of her situation, I'm excited to see her grow in future books. To learn and train and basically kick some serious ass, because she's already showed she's got it in her. She began to rise up and take control, fight back against those who destroyed her life. And if this is what Rose Foster offered us from her first installment, I'm giddy with excitement to sample the kickass action and twists she'll serve up in the sequel.
Both guys and girls will find themselves completely engrossed in this gripping and action-packed secret world of assassins, extractors, code-breakers and all kinds of criminals.... ah, sorry Desmond, 'criminals' sounds petty, doesn't it? They're Contractors, highly-skilled in their field and 100% certifiably dangerous. The Industry reads like an action-thriller movie, I can already see it making a great film! The secondary characters were all fantastic, but you'll always be second-guessing who to trust. Who is a friend and who is an enemy? I'll just say that I'm particularly fond of those who she does manage to form an alliance with!
The Industry is a highly addictive, witty, edge-of-your-seat thrill-ride that will constantly keep you alert for the next unsuspecting danger or betrayal. Whether it's a gun, a shocking twist or a healthy dose of torture, there is always something awaiting you around the next corner. There's never a dull moment and the action refuses to cease. And when you've finally escaped the fast-paced danger, you'll be bouncing on your heels, eager for another round. The stakes are high and the escapes are narrow. Forget everything about your boring, mundane life - welcome to an exciting, dangerous, pulse-racing world. Welcome to The Industry.
Be sure to check out The Industry's Facebook page where other reviewers will soon be posting their thoughts on this stunning debut novel. Plus it's the place to be for all the latest news and updates in the lead up to release!
March 22, 2017
A great book that surprises you every chapter!
I am looking forward to the second book.
:)
I am looking forward to the second book.
:)
December 11, 2011
Kirra Hayward is an ordinary high school maths geek genuis studying maths 2 grades above her level.. Upon searching on the Internet for ideas for a MATHS project, she comes across a certain odd puzzle and solves it instanly without much thought. A few days later, she is kidnapped and transported all the way to the other side of the world. She is kept prisoner, and tortured to solve more of those puzzles that she learns are not ordinary ones. In fact, these codes are called the Spencer Code, and you know what? Kirra happens to be one of only people in the world who can decode it! Her ability marks her as an important target that everyone would do anything to get their hands on, and her captor would do anything to keep her ability for himself. Will she be able to Escape this imprisonment? And what will happen to her future now?
When I think back now, The Industry did feel fast-paced and full of intense action, especially towards the end, but her imprisonment scenes did lag. It was only half-way through the book, that the real action began and the fantastic plot line resumed its brilliance.
During her time in the cell, she is joined by someone else; a guy called Milo who miraculously possesses the same extraordinary talent as her to decipher the spencer code. At first Milo seemed really rude and annoying, but there was a nice side to him as well- he cared about Kirra, and gave her support and encouragement.I really like how they bonded inside their cell; it was the sort of relationship that developed gradually, as they began to trust each other and connect.
I loved all the characters! Kirra was certainly admirable in many ways, espeically her strength and loyalty. She'd never had a real friend before, and upon developing a true connection with Milo, she trusted him with all her heart and I was so touched by her loyalty! *Sigh*The poor girl! Her life suddenly changed so drastically, there wasn't even time for her to be prepared for what was to come. With her kidnapped, and unable to return to her family, what else can she look forward to in her future? I thought the secondary characters were well developed as well; especially Desmond! Okay, I have no idea why, but I just took an instant liking to him!
I loved the idea of such a huge and influential organisation being sheltered and unknown to the rest of the world. From contractors and criminals to *gasp* assassins, it's a miracle they've never been caught! The Industry reminded me a bit of those spy books ( CHERUB) I used to read, and it was definitely pleasing!
With fantastic characters, unpredictable twists, and constant pulse-pounding action, what's not to love about The Industry? I say you look out for its release next year, and GET YOURSELF A COPY! You won't be disappointed!
When I think back now, The Industry did feel fast-paced and full of intense action, especially towards the end, but her imprisonment scenes did lag. It was only half-way through the book, that the real action began and the fantastic plot line resumed its brilliance.
During her time in the cell, she is joined by someone else; a guy called Milo who miraculously possesses the same extraordinary talent as her to decipher the spencer code. At first Milo seemed really rude and annoying, but there was a nice side to him as well- he cared about Kirra, and gave her support and encouragement.I really like how they bonded inside their cell; it was the sort of relationship that developed gradually, as they began to trust each other and connect.
I loved all the characters! Kirra was certainly admirable in many ways, espeically her strength and loyalty. She'd never had a real friend before, and upon developing a true connection with Milo, she trusted him with all her heart and I was so touched by her loyalty! *Sigh*The poor girl! Her life suddenly changed so drastically, there wasn't even time for her to be prepared for what was to come. With her kidnapped, and unable to return to her family, what else can she look forward to in her future? I thought the secondary characters were well developed as well; especially Desmond! Okay, I have no idea why, but I just took an instant liking to him!
I loved the idea of such a huge and influential organisation being sheltered and unknown to the rest of the world. From contractors and criminals to *gasp* assassins, it's a miracle they've never been caught! The Industry reminded me a bit of those spy books ( CHERUB) I used to read, and it was definitely pleasing!
With fantastic characters, unpredictable twists, and constant pulse-pounding action, what's not to love about The Industry? I say you look out for its release next year, and GET YOURSELF A COPY! You won't be disappointed!
December 13, 2011
Originally posted at Read Me Bookmark Me Love Me
The Industry is a novel so packed with mystery and action, you won't know what to do with yourself! I was honoured to have received a bound manuscript of this amazing book to read and review. My first experience: brilliant. I could barely contain my excitement after turning the first page and realising how greatly it would meet my expectations!
Kirra Hayward is a very intelligent student with a specialisation in maths and computing. Enrolled in classes too effortless for her, a simple maths assignment leads her to a deadly Google search. When she stumbles across a seemingly random puzzle, she solves it having no idea how she did so. There was no formula. No method. Just a string of numbers and letters flashing in her vision. Nothing happens when she submits her answer and it's over. Or so she thought. When a special organisation is alerted of the solved puzzle, it makes her one of the most wanted people in the word. With her ability to crack the code, something only three known people can do, she's a dangerous weapon who can get through all sorts of security barriers. Get ready for some high-speed chases, kidnappings and shocking deaths!
After being captured by Latham and his cronies, Kirra is thrown into a cell where she is tortured. She must solve each code presented to her or be injected with a fluid which will make her beg for death. Kirra gives in the first time but then vows to endure the pain for the sake of humanity. I admired her inner strength as she sacrificed herself to prevent Latham's plans for evil. What a character! Unfortunately, her resolves breaks when Milo Franklyn joins her in the cell. They develop feelings for each other and suddenly, the outside world doesn't matter when someone you care about is threatened with endless agony. Yes, fun times. Both characters are intriguing with minds I would kill to further explore! They mature and change very rapidly...with some unexpected surprises. Just wait until you run into the novel's major plot twist! *gasp*
The Industry's plot will blow you away. For every question answered, three more are asked. Have fun navigating this mind-numbing mystery! Along with the stunning characters, the storyline carries the novel in fierce style. Be swept away in the electrifying romance, with moments of absolute heartache and pure fluff. In this dangerous and frightening world, the sequel will surely keep us on the edge of our seats once again!
The Industry is a novel so packed with mystery and action, you won't know what to do with yourself! I was honoured to have received a bound manuscript of this amazing book to read and review. My first experience: brilliant. I could barely contain my excitement after turning the first page and realising how greatly it would meet my expectations!
Kirra Hayward is a very intelligent student with a specialisation in maths and computing. Enrolled in classes too effortless for her, a simple maths assignment leads her to a deadly Google search. When she stumbles across a seemingly random puzzle, she solves it having no idea how she did so. There was no formula. No method. Just a string of numbers and letters flashing in her vision. Nothing happens when she submits her answer and it's over. Or so she thought. When a special organisation is alerted of the solved puzzle, it makes her one of the most wanted people in the word. With her ability to crack the code, something only three known people can do, she's a dangerous weapon who can get through all sorts of security barriers. Get ready for some high-speed chases, kidnappings and shocking deaths!
After being captured by Latham and his cronies, Kirra is thrown into a cell where she is tortured. She must solve each code presented to her or be injected with a fluid which will make her beg for death. Kirra gives in the first time but then vows to endure the pain for the sake of humanity. I admired her inner strength as she sacrificed herself to prevent Latham's plans for evil. What a character! Unfortunately, her resolves breaks when Milo Franklyn joins her in the cell. They develop feelings for each other and suddenly, the outside world doesn't matter when someone you care about is threatened with endless agony. Yes, fun times. Both characters are intriguing with minds I would kill to further explore! They mature and change very rapidly...with some unexpected surprises. Just wait until you run into the novel's major plot twist! *gasp*
The Industry's plot will blow you away. For every question answered, three more are asked. Have fun navigating this mind-numbing mystery! Along with the stunning characters, the storyline carries the novel in fierce style. Be swept away in the electrifying romance, with moments of absolute heartache and pure fluff. In this dangerous and frightening world, the sequel will surely keep us on the edge of our seats once again!
December 5, 2014
Kirra Hayward is exemplary student in year ten at Freemont Grammar. Being so clever in maths, she has jumped two years ahead and is doing year twelve maths classes. For her first math lesson, her lazy math teacher tells her to come up with her own equation and extra marks for a puzzle. Kirra was so annoyed, expecting something worthwhile and seeing absolutely no academic purpose in the task given. She then goes on her search engine and types puzzles, not caring about plagiarism as her teacher would be too lazy to check anyway. With a page of results, she chooses one blaring at her saying CRACK THE CODE! She clicks the link expecting instructions but she receives nothing. The screen showed a bunch of letters and numbers but what do was she supposed to do? About to dismiss it, Kirra saw a number and typed it in. Then a letter. Then an entire fourteen-digit code. Unsure of how she did it and assuming it was right, she entered the code in and got nothing. Yayyy.
Not having told anyone about the code, she went about her normal life with her parents, her sister Olivia and her brother Mitchell. For many days, she had this really weird feeling she was being watched but she thought she was just hallucinating. With all this said, she came off the bus from school and started walking home, spotting a van on the street. She started feeling like she was being watched again. Starting to feel more scared by the feeling and the van's presence, she started picking up the pace and soon the van was creeping behind her and soon it was chase. Catching up to Kirra, they eventually kidnapped her and her life was never going to be the same again.
The plot and the character development was so perfectly created and overall an amazing read. Couldn't believe how well structured this story was. The amazing description of everything made this story an 'Amazing, heart-pounding thrill-ride that will have you panting for a sequel.' - Michael Grant: best selling author of Gone. A sequel? YESSSSSS!!!!!!!
I. NEED. IT. NOW.
Well, as Michael Grant said, I'm panting for a sequel!!! But where is it?! Finishing this story with a cliffhanger and had it published in 2012, the second book 'The Estate' should've been out already!
Even with that disappointment, The Industry is worth the read. This book was a fantastic fast-paced story with a whole new interesting plot that can't be said as a copy of another ya book. I definitely recommend this book to everyone.
As for that cover, IT'S ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!!
It's more of a 4.5 stars for me!
Not having told anyone about the code, she went about her normal life with her parents, her sister Olivia and her brother Mitchell. For many days, she had this really weird feeling she was being watched but she thought she was just hallucinating. With all this said, she came off the bus from school and started walking home, spotting a van on the street. She started feeling like she was being watched again. Starting to feel more scared by the feeling and the van's presence, she started picking up the pace and soon the van was creeping behind her and soon it was chase. Catching up to Kirra, they eventually kidnapped her and her life was never going to be the same again.
The plot and the character development was so perfectly created and overall an amazing read. Couldn't believe how well structured this story was. The amazing description of everything made this story an 'Amazing, heart-pounding thrill-ride that will have you panting for a sequel.' - Michael Grant: best selling author of Gone. A sequel? YESSSSSS!!!!!!!
I. NEED. IT. NOW.
Well, as Michael Grant said, I'm panting for a sequel!!! But where is it?! Finishing this story with a cliffhanger and had it published in 2012, the second book 'The Estate' should've been out already!
Even with that disappointment, The Industry is worth the read. This book was a fantastic fast-paced story with a whole new interesting plot that can't be said as a copy of another ya book. I definitely recommend this book to everyone.
As for that cover, IT'S ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!!!
It's more of a 4.5 stars for me!
May 8, 2012
Welcome to The Industry - a thrilling espionage drama that reads like a Hollywood blockbuster penned by debut Australian author, Rose Foster. It begins with a click of a mouse as Kirra Haywood navigates onto a mysterious website that challenges her to a puzzle. What she thinks is some fun is a whole lot more as this is no ordinary puzzle but a worldwide attempt to find anyone who can solve it. It's called the Spencer Code and apparently only 3 people in the world possess the ability to crack it. Kirra is one of these masterminds! From the moment she cracks her first Spencer Code her life changes forever. She is hunted down, kidnapped, tortured, manipulated and used for her unique ability by the Industry. It's this code that provide the means to complete various assassination missions.
As word of Kirras' unique ability spreads she increasingly becomes the most sought after girl in the contracting organisation so she is kept under duress as prisoner. Her only communication is with the head contractor named Latham, a meek woman named Lena, a young man named Milo who gets imprisoned with her and later on another contractor with a different agenda.
Foster has created a very likeable main character in Kirra, who because of her predicament is forced to grapple with internal conflicts of good vs evil, of whom to trust and what to do. She finds that she is second-guessing who is on her side and who is against her. It's an action packed adventure with a fast paced plot, unsuspecting twists and solid characterisation. It's pure escapism and I wait with anticipation for the next installment entitled, The Estate.
As word of Kirras' unique ability spreads she increasingly becomes the most sought after girl in the contracting organisation so she is kept under duress as prisoner. Her only communication is with the head contractor named Latham, a meek woman named Lena, a young man named Milo who gets imprisoned with her and later on another contractor with a different agenda.
Foster has created a very likeable main character in Kirra, who because of her predicament is forced to grapple with internal conflicts of good vs evil, of whom to trust and what to do. She finds that she is second-guessing who is on her side and who is against her. It's an action packed adventure with a fast paced plot, unsuspecting twists and solid characterisation. It's pure escapism and I wait with anticipation for the next installment entitled, The Estate.
May 17, 2012
Do you love puzzles ? I know I do , my favourites tend to be the word puzzles. In Rose Foster's new series, we meet sixteen year old Kirra Hayward who is a mathematics genius . One school day during maths , the class is given an assignment to create a puzzle which includes an equation or mathematical reasoning. Kirra , unsure of what to do exactly logs on to the net and starts to google number puzzles. She comes across one and submits it , nothing happens and she leaves it at that, though it's still niggling in the back of her mind. The next day though Kirra finds her life is about to change and all because she solved some stupid puzzle on the internet. The puzzle turned out to be a code that very few in fact only 4 people have been known to solve it and the remaining are dead so Kirra is the only hope in solving the codes. Soon Kirra is kidnapped and finds herself held hostage with the sole purpose of solving the codes given to her. Kirra will soon realise that if she doesn't do what she is told, there will be severe consequences including death. We read as Kirra is uprooted from her life as a high achieving sixteen year old girl and girl whose only interest is in school to having to fight to survive and run in order to save herself from an incorporation we learn called "The Industry".
What is "The Industry" and what do the codes lead to ? Will Kirra survive the torment and tribulations ?
Find out in Book #1 The Industry by Rose Foster.
What is "The Industry" and what do the codes lead to ? Will Kirra survive the torment and tribulations ?
Find out in Book #1 The Industry by Rose Foster.
January 14, 2013
So nice to read an YA without a vampire or werewolf to be seen (not that I don't enjoy a well-written vamp etc). Still, The Industry made for a pleasant change (though not without it's hint of the paranormal - cracking codes because the answer just appears to you? Really?) The very 'ordinary' (if geeky outsider)female protagonist was very appealing and believable (but I have to say the 'girlie' sister/mother combination was annoyingly hackneyed but their appearance was brief and therefore bearable). I loved the tension in this book and the idea that organized crime world considered itself to be just another industry - most of all I enjoyed the uncertainty I felt in my own judgement as the intentions of one of the main characters went from bad to good and back again and ? who knows... refusing to let me put him in a box.
I await the next instalment.
I await the next instalment.
July 29, 2016
I received The Industry by Rose Foster in a Goodreads Giveaway.
From page 1, I didn't want to put this book down!
We follow a 16 year old girl, Kirra who is an ordinary young girl struggling to find her spot in High school where her intelligence alienates her.
During an Internet search looking for an assignment to submit, she comes across an anomaly of a Puzzle and as she studies it, the answer jumps out to her one character at a time. She submits her answer and this leads her onto a path of kidnapping, murder, bombs and a totally scary and lethal life she has no choice in.
There is a massive twist that you won't see coming and when it is uncovered and explained, it all ties in.
A totally engrossing story and I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series by a very talented Author.
From page 1, I didn't want to put this book down!
We follow a 16 year old girl, Kirra who is an ordinary young girl struggling to find her spot in High school where her intelligence alienates her.
During an Internet search looking for an assignment to submit, she comes across an anomaly of a Puzzle and as she studies it, the answer jumps out to her one character at a time. She submits her answer and this leads her onto a path of kidnapping, murder, bombs and a totally scary and lethal life she has no choice in.
There is a massive twist that you won't see coming and when it is uncovered and explained, it all ties in.
A totally engrossing story and I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series by a very talented Author.
May 11, 2012
In A Nutshell:
Kirra’s in a no-win situation. She struggles with the moral dilemmas that are put in front of her and tries to pick the lesser of two evils. But can she live with herself over the choices she makes? Part psychological thriller, part espionage conspiracy, I look forward to seeing what direction Foster will take in the sequel.
For my full review please visit my blog:
http://www.thetalescompendium.com/201...
Kirra’s in a no-win situation. She struggles with the moral dilemmas that are put in front of her and tries to pick the lesser of two evils. But can she live with herself over the choices she makes? Part psychological thriller, part espionage conspiracy, I look forward to seeing what direction Foster will take in the sequel.
For my full review please visit my blog:
http://www.thetalescompendium.com/201...
May 11, 2012
This novel is so exciting and sleek, it's like an action film in book form, and it's YA! But don't get me wrong, it's not some Spy Kids bullshit; it's more like Chuck. The character development is really interesting, and I particularly love that the author used a multicultural cast without having their cultures be the basis of their identity. Not every east Asian character needs to have a parental expectation crisis! I'd love to get my hands on the sequel.
May 28, 2014
It was fantastic, brillantly written. The love story that started to begin between Milo and Kirra while being locked up together, was fast-paced and very intense. The detail and exposure to this book has helped me connect better with people and how to pick out the fake friends. It has also helped me in my studies for English at high school, helping with my creative wrting. Thank you. Anyway I'm still excited but STILL waiting for the sequeal.
January 16, 2013
This book was pretty good the whole way through but became totally awesome once it neared the end.
(*jaw dropping* followed by a WHAT!? NO WAY!)and then everything fixes into place and you realise how it all makes sense...
Simply said: I cannot wait for the sequel 'The Estate'
What a thrilling ride
(*jaw dropping* followed by a WHAT!? NO WAY!)and then everything fixes into place and you realise how it all makes sense...
Simply said: I cannot wait for the sequel 'The Estate'
What a thrilling ride
July 22, 2012
This book is so good i couldn't put it down till the end. When you start the book you start trusting milo with kirra, so you get a surprize with kirra when milo turns evil.
Rose Foster is an amazing writer and can't wait till The Estate comes out!!
Rose Foster is an amazing writer and can't wait till The Estate comes out!!
July 13, 2012
The Industry was fantastic. A thriller with a great cast of characters - good, bad, evil and questionable people everywhere! Plenty of potential for the rest of the series.
See my full review here:
http://ldt9.wordpress.com/2012/07/13/...
See my full review here:
http://ldt9.wordpress.com/2012/07/13/...
July 27, 2012
Dear Rose Foster,
What did you do to Milo? Fix this promptly.
With angry awe,
Connie.
Ps, great book. I loved the plot. A underground crime world that kidnaps special people? That's awesome! You have a great imagination.
What did you do to Milo? Fix this promptly.
With angry awe,
Connie.
Ps, great book. I loved the plot. A underground crime world that kidnaps special people? That's awesome! You have a great imagination.
March 11, 2014
It was a very interesting book. Some of the book I expect while most of it was surprising and exciting like when she got trapped under that building and when she refused to give he code even when they drugged her. Those were great parts and I can't wait to read the next book.
June 3, 2012
"The Industry" was exciting and fast. It was not difficult to predict some of the events that were going to happen but it did, nonetheless, make me want to read the next book.
July 5, 2012
OMG! Loved this book, what a twist on Milo at the end though, was not expecting that to come! Can't wait for the next one, The Estate
July 19, 2012
this is a good book... i want to read the sequal
July 23, 2012
4.5 stars
Review coming soon! It was just...so good.
Review coming soon! It was just...so good.
October 13, 2012
3.5 stars. i really enjoyed this book, it was written well and i followed the storyline easily.
August 24, 2013
this book was so cool! It is full of action, drama, heart breaking and also heart pounding scenes I absolutely LOVE this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2014
Looking forward to seeing what is going to happen next in this series
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