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Prison Nation #1
Prison Nation
In the Nation, no one is innocent - not even the children born behind bars. Millie 942B has spent her entire life locked away with her criminal parents and countless other inmates. She believes in the Nation, in its strict laws and harsh punishments.
But when Millie is released on her eighteenth birthday, she finds things are nothing as she was taught. People vanish, never to be seen again. Lies cover every word. Trust is as fragile as ice.
And then there is Reed. Born and raised outside the Prison walls, his dreams and thoughts cause Millie to doubt everything she has ever believed.
What is truly worth fighting for? If she pushes too hard, she could lose her freedom. If she stays silent, she could lose herself. The clock is ticking, and Millie must find the truth before it is too late.
But when Millie is released on her eighteenth birthday, she finds things are nothing as she was taught. People vanish, never to be seen again. Lies cover every word. Trust is as fragile as ice.
And then there is Reed. Born and raised outside the Prison walls, his dreams and thoughts cause Millie to doubt everything she has ever believed.
What is truly worth fighting for? If she pushes too hard, she could lose her freedom. If she stays silent, she could lose herself. The clock is ticking, and Millie must find the truth before it is too late.
302 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2011
74 people are currently reading
2195 people want to read
About the author
Jenni Merritt
3 books202 followersJenni Merritt was born and raised on a small island in the Puget Sound. From a young age she discovered and fell in love with the world of writing and has been happily obsessed ever since. She is now married to the love of her life, and has two crazy but amazing little boys. When not busying herself with being a stay-at-home mom, writing books, keeping her blog, and diving into photography, Jenni sometimes manages to snag some much needed sleep.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
December 21, 2014
What a great story, but man was that ending frustrating! I was hoping it would go in a different direction but I'm still intrigued to find out what happens next. The only thing I didn't like about this book was that there were way too many coincidences for me, and it really strained the believability. I'm okay with one big coincidence as a twist, but when you scatter them around like candy it gets to be a bit too much.
I loved the concept of the prison nation, I felt that it was realistic and I really liked Millie, even if she was a bit (okay very) naive.
Overall I really enjoyed this, although I did have some issues,I still think it is worth a read. If you like YA Dystopian (and are not sick of it yet) I would recommend this book. 3.5/5
Note: This book is currently available in a $3 digital young adult dystopian box set. Dat Value!
http://www.amazon.com/What-Tomorrow-M...
May 23, 2012
While the concept of this book was intriguing and really is what kept me reading. This book is in serious need of a plot and line edit. There were several plot points that just didn't make sense. And some simple sentence construction mistakes that made the writing choppy and incoherent at times.
Mille is in jail with her parents, they all live in the same cell, even though they were sent to jail before she was born for a crime. She is also allowed to walk around the jail where no one is segregated. She later states she dealt with Pedophiles and rapist her entire life.... okaaaaayyyyyyyy......
About half of the book takes place in the Prison before Mille's release at 18. It would be intriguing if most of that time wasn't spent in internal dialogue while Millie sits in her cell for several days doing nothing. IE the pedophile/rapist revelation only comes out after she leaves the prison. If I was going to spend a week with Mille in jail it would have been interesting to see her walk around and see what was really going on in there. And all the people she encountered. Also a new guard on her last week in Prison comes to her block and literally stalks her...... it was odd and weird as he came out of nowhere but then claims to have been "watching" her for several years. So in a week he went from someone you didn't know at all to someone obsessed with the main character.
The second half of the book takes place after her release into a work program... you experience her first day and night and then the book jumps two weeks with a little recap. That's fine expect all these relationships she was building happen over night then(but I know a lot about several people in the prison) So it ended up feeling very forced because I missed the relationship being built and getting to know the new characters.
There are several revelations at the back end of the book, that honestly I could see a mile away. As well as the ending chapters, the outside world is walled in as well.... so cue obligatory make a run for the wall to escape scene. They do escape but without so much as a plan or an escape route literally they get the other side of the wall which is the ocean, the decide to turn around and help other people escape....they walk back into the wall, and also to this messy police scene waiting for them..... end of the book..... I sat there going escape where??? you made it to the beach, what? is everyone just going to live there???? there's no plan.....
The world is interesting and the concept is interesting as well, but there wasn't much time spent really on world building or character development. Hopefully the second book will build more on the world already created.... and let me in on the plan to get the people out of Prison nation....
Mille is in jail with her parents, they all live in the same cell, even though they were sent to jail before she was born for a crime. She is also allowed to walk around the jail where no one is segregated. She later states she dealt with Pedophiles and rapist her entire life.... okaaaaayyyyyyyy......
About half of the book takes place in the Prison before Mille's release at 18. It would be intriguing if most of that time wasn't spent in internal dialogue while Millie sits in her cell for several days doing nothing. IE the pedophile/rapist revelation only comes out after she leaves the prison. If I was going to spend a week with Mille in jail it would have been interesting to see her walk around and see what was really going on in there. And all the people she encountered. Also a new guard on her last week in Prison comes to her block and literally stalks her...... it was odd and weird as he came out of nowhere but then claims to have been "watching" her for several years. So in a week he went from someone you didn't know at all to someone obsessed with the main character.
The second half of the book takes place after her release into a work program... you experience her first day and night and then the book jumps two weeks with a little recap. That's fine expect all these relationships she was building happen over night then(but I know a lot about several people in the prison) So it ended up feeling very forced because I missed the relationship being built and getting to know the new characters.
There are several revelations at the back end of the book, that honestly I could see a mile away. As well as the ending chapters, the outside world is walled in as well.... so cue obligatory make a run for the wall to escape scene. They do escape but without so much as a plan or an escape route literally they get the other side of the wall which is the ocean, the decide to turn around and help other people escape....they walk back into the wall, and also to this messy police scene waiting for them..... end of the book..... I sat there going escape where??? you made it to the beach, what? is everyone just going to live there???? there's no plan.....
The world is interesting and the concept is interesting as well, but there wasn't much time spent really on world building or character development. Hopefully the second book will build more on the world already created.... and let me in on the plan to get the people out of Prison nation....
October 25, 2012
I downloaded Prison Nation as a freebie not knowing what to expect. The description sounded interesting even though it is something I normally would not have read. I am glad I did, it was great.
Millie is what is known as a Jail Baby. Millie's parents are both in jail & she was born in jail. 50% of the population is in jail in this interesting world. The Nation is what the U.S. used to be before it broke free from the UN & put up a wall around itself to keep the bad out & the good in. On Millie's 18th Birthday she is scheduled to be released. She will miss her parents, Orrin & Jude but needs to start her life on the outside, where it is safe (she wishes). Carl the new guard is obsessed with Millie & does not want her to leave the prison. He wants her bad & scares her by ruffing her up before her release date. She knows she needs to get away from him fast.
She meets Reed, Maria, various others that help her get settled in. Reed helps her learn the ropes at her new job & Maria helps her feel welcome in her new living quarters.
Throughout this story I fell madly in love with Millie. She is sweet, beautiful, loyal, timid, & strong. Reed is very sweet to her & tries to help her through the transition of being on the outside. Millie learns that The Nation is not what it appears to be from the inside looking out. Now it is up to herself to truly feel what the word FREE means. In order to do this Reed & Millie must break a lot of rules, risk being put back in jail, leave people behind & figure out how to get to the outside of the wall.
Great self adventure of a young woman struggling with a lot of choices in a world she does not understand.
Jenni Merritt's page states that there will be a sequel & I am looking forward to it.
Millie is what is known as a Jail Baby. Millie's parents are both in jail & she was born in jail. 50% of the population is in jail in this interesting world. The Nation is what the U.S. used to be before it broke free from the UN & put up a wall around itself to keep the bad out & the good in. On Millie's 18th Birthday she is scheduled to be released. She will miss her parents, Orrin & Jude but needs to start her life on the outside, where it is safe (she wishes). Carl the new guard is obsessed with Millie & does not want her to leave the prison. He wants her bad & scares her by ruffing her up before her release date. She knows she needs to get away from him fast.
She meets Reed, Maria, various others that help her get settled in. Reed helps her learn the ropes at her new job & Maria helps her feel welcome in her new living quarters.
Throughout this story I fell madly in love with Millie. She is sweet, beautiful, loyal, timid, & strong. Reed is very sweet to her & tries to help her through the transition of being on the outside. Millie learns that The Nation is not what it appears to be from the inside looking out. Now it is up to herself to truly feel what the word FREE means. In order to do this Reed & Millie must break a lot of rules, risk being put back in jail, leave people behind & figure out how to get to the outside of the wall.
Great self adventure of a young woman struggling with a lot of choices in a world she does not understand.
Jenni Merritt's page states that there will be a sequel & I am looking forward to it.
January 27, 2013
More accurately, I'd give this book a 3.5
I'm trying to decide if I should buy a paperback copy instead of simply owning the ebook.
Prison Nation was yet another cleverly done Dystopian book, which I thoroughly enjoyed!
Millie has spent her entire life, born and raised, in Spokane, one of the four prisons in what is now the walled in country of the United States. Since her parents, not she, are the ones who committed the crime which resulted in her life in prison, at the age of 18 she is finally given the opportunity to leave.
I loved the setting of this book, and the idea, and Merritt does a wonderful job setting the story up. The beginning is brilliant— she really gives you a feel for Millie's life. That being said, the rest of the book felt a little rushed. When she finally does earn her life outside the prison walls, everything happens just a little too fast for my taste, and the ending comes too quickly and too easily.
However, that does not change the fact that I liked the book, quite a bit more than expected. I'm eagerly awaiting a sequel and definitely recommend it!
I'm trying to decide if I should buy a paperback copy instead of simply owning the ebook.
Prison Nation was yet another cleverly done Dystopian book, which I thoroughly enjoyed!
Millie has spent her entire life, born and raised, in Spokane, one of the four prisons in what is now the walled in country of the United States. Since her parents, not she, are the ones who committed the crime which resulted in her life in prison, at the age of 18 she is finally given the opportunity to leave.
I loved the setting of this book, and the idea, and Merritt does a wonderful job setting the story up. The beginning is brilliant— she really gives you a feel for Millie's life. That being said, the rest of the book felt a little rushed. When she finally does earn her life outside the prison walls, everything happens just a little too fast for my taste, and the ending comes too quickly and too easily.
However, that does not change the fact that I liked the book, quite a bit more than expected. I'm eagerly awaiting a sequel and definitely recommend it!
September 6, 2012
The premise of this novel interested me enough to get started. My inability to finish a story made me finish it.
This felt like a rough draft. All the bones of the story down on paper, with none of the fleshing out. Also, it was hard to connect to most of the characters due to a lack of character development and I found some elements of the plot completely unrealistic.
I was disappointed because it seems like the author had an interesting thought and started to write about it. Somewhere along the line she couldn't figure out how to wind it down and end realistically, so she slapped together a fast paced car-chase style ending which didn't resonate with the story.
Don't read this, people. There are much better dystopian novels out there!
This felt like a rough draft. All the bones of the story down on paper, with none of the fleshing out. Also, it was hard to connect to most of the characters due to a lack of character development and I found some elements of the plot completely unrealistic.
I was disappointed because it seems like the author had an interesting thought and started to write about it. Somewhere along the line she couldn't figure out how to wind it down and end realistically, so she slapped together a fast paced car-chase style ending which didn't resonate with the story.
Don't read this, people. There are much better dystopian novels out there!
November 15, 2012
I have to start by saying I loved the premise of this book. Imagine our country in the future. A future where it's easier to get thrown in prison than it is to stay out of it. A future where a massive wall has been erected round the entire country, cutting us off from the rest of the world. Imagine a world where if you're born to criminals in prison you're forced to pay for THEIR sins, unable to be released until your 18th birthday.
That's the world in which Millie 942B is born into. Her mother and father are lifers. They committed a crime when they were young and had Millie while they were incarcerated in the Spokane Prison, one of four such city sized prisons throughout the country. Millie is a Jail Baby. Jail Babies are taught how great The Nation is, that they must be the good and the strong to make sure the Nation survives.
As I said, the premise is fascinating. It's the execution where the book failed to rivet me.
Prison Nation is split into three parts. The first is set entirely within Spokane Prison. It's basically the setup for the rest of the book. And it's very very slow. I think my main issue with the novel is how stiffly the characters are portrayed. Everyone has a very stilted way of talking. "I had not..I did not..I would not.."..even the narration, which is first person told through Millie's perspective, is the same. It came off as a little dry.
The second part is shorter but is also slow as well. Some new characters are introduced and we learn, through Millie's experiences that the Nation is not at all what she learned it was in the Prison. We also learn that not everyone in Prison is guilty. A good many of them are in fact, innocent. Once again, some interesting turns here but still, the dialogue and narration is stiff and stuffy at times.
The third part is the shortest and kind of throws several things together at once. It begs a sequel as well.
All in all, a solid read. I just wish it would have been a little more well balanced between the three acts and that the people read a little more fluidly.
I don't mean to bash the author in any way. She's come up with a very cool idea and told the tale. It's also her first book and I know that writing isn't easy. It's not easy to develop a voice. I think if a sequel did come out I would certainly read it just because I think, if she hits her stride, we'd be in for something special. Also, the premise is too interesting not to see how it would turn out.
That's the world in which Millie 942B is born into. Her mother and father are lifers. They committed a crime when they were young and had Millie while they were incarcerated in the Spokane Prison, one of four such city sized prisons throughout the country. Millie is a Jail Baby. Jail Babies are taught how great The Nation is, that they must be the good and the strong to make sure the Nation survives.
As I said, the premise is fascinating. It's the execution where the book failed to rivet me.
Prison Nation is split into three parts. The first is set entirely within Spokane Prison. It's basically the setup for the rest of the book. And it's very very slow. I think my main issue with the novel is how stiffly the characters are portrayed. Everyone has a very stilted way of talking. "I had not..I did not..I would not.."..even the narration, which is first person told through Millie's perspective, is the same. It came off as a little dry.
The second part is shorter but is also slow as well. Some new characters are introduced and we learn, through Millie's experiences that the Nation is not at all what she learned it was in the Prison. We also learn that not everyone in Prison is guilty. A good many of them are in fact, innocent. Once again, some interesting turns here but still, the dialogue and narration is stiff and stuffy at times.
The third part is the shortest and kind of throws several things together at once. It begs a sequel as well.
All in all, a solid read. I just wish it would have been a little more well balanced between the three acts and that the people read a little more fluidly.
I don't mean to bash the author in any way. She's come up with a very cool idea and told the tale. It's also her first book and I know that writing isn't easy. It's not easy to develop a voice. I think if a sequel did come out I would certainly read it just because I think, if she hits her stride, we'd be in for something special. Also, the premise is too interesting not to see how it would turn out.
February 4, 2016
Prison Nation is a fantastic idea.
What would America be like if it sealed its boarders and the punishment for crimes (and even suspected crimes) became so harsh that the Nation needed massive prisons, large enough to house thousands and thousands of people?
You can find out, just by picking up this book.
Millie, our female protagonist experiences a significant personal journey throughout the book, but she does start out a little flat. I quite liked how things progressed, but I'd have liked a little more spunk from her early on.
The supporting cast was quite diverse, which was a welcome change from a lot of YA books, however, I was looking for a strong female role model for Millie and that was seriously lacking.
So, so far that's quite a lot of positives, so why only 3 stars?
Well, the writing isn't polished. There were a lot of adverbs and adjectives being used, a lot of scenes were overwritten, and could do with a cull, as well as quite a lot of repetition.
The formatting was also off, including sentences that ran together, missing words, added words, the spacing was off in parts and there were even some instances of homophone misuse!
With a hefty edit, this book would be a solid addition to the YA, Dystopian genre. As it is now, it's an enjoyable read, but it feels unpolished and a little rough around the edges.
**Note: I was provided an electronic copy of What Tomorrow May Bring, that included this book, in return for an honest review.**
What would America be like if it sealed its boarders and the punishment for crimes (and even suspected crimes) became so harsh that the Nation needed massive prisons, large enough to house thousands and thousands of people?
You can find out, just by picking up this book.
Millie, our female protagonist experiences a significant personal journey throughout the book, but she does start out a little flat. I quite liked how things progressed, but I'd have liked a little more spunk from her early on.
The supporting cast was quite diverse, which was a welcome change from a lot of YA books, however, I was looking for a strong female role model for Millie and that was seriously lacking.
So, so far that's quite a lot of positives, so why only 3 stars?
Well, the writing isn't polished. There were a lot of adverbs and adjectives being used, a lot of scenes were overwritten, and could do with a cull, as well as quite a lot of repetition.
The formatting was also off, including sentences that ran together, missing words, added words, the spacing was off in parts and there were even some instances of homophone misuse!
With a hefty edit, this book would be a solid addition to the YA, Dystopian genre. As it is now, it's an enjoyable read, but it feels unpolished and a little rough around the edges.
**Note: I was provided an electronic copy of What Tomorrow May Bring, that included this book, in return for an honest review.**
December 13, 2011
I read this book in two days because I couldn't put it down. I am amazed that this is a debut novel.
The world of Prison Nation is fascinating and the main character, Millie, is no exception. From the first page I was invested in finding out what happens to her, what her life is really like inside of a prison, and what will happen to her if/when she is finally released. Her relationship with her parents is particularly interesting and definitely worth reading the book just to discover the intricacies of that relationship.
The author's way with words is amazing. She paints such a clear picture with just a few sentences. She has an amazing ability to provoke emotion from the reader, which isn't an easy thing to do. This book had me laughing and crying. I was genuinely sad to see it end. I'm sincerely hoping that there will be a sequel in the near future.
The world of Prison Nation is fascinating and the main character, Millie, is no exception. From the first page I was invested in finding out what happens to her, what her life is really like inside of a prison, and what will happen to her if/when she is finally released. Her relationship with her parents is particularly interesting and definitely worth reading the book just to discover the intricacies of that relationship.
The author's way with words is amazing. She paints such a clear picture with just a few sentences. She has an amazing ability to provoke emotion from the reader, which isn't an easy thing to do. This book had me laughing and crying. I was genuinely sad to see it end. I'm sincerely hoping that there will be a sequel in the near future.
January 17, 2012
I read this book in about a day, which is a rare thing for me to do. What I probably liked most about this book is how different, yet cohesive, each part of the book is: Millie's life in prison and her life outside of it. With some books, the author doesn't spend nearly enough time describing the world their character's came from. Jenni takes time to introduce Millie's life within the prison before she enters her new life outside of it, and every detail about it was captivating.
I also liked the fact that the love story didn't overpower the entire plot; all the important issues remained important.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, despite the minor problems I had with it. I'll be expecting a sequel.
I also liked the fact that the love story didn't overpower the entire plot; all the important issues remained important.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, despite the minor problems I had with it. I'll be expecting a sequel.
December 18, 2012
BookNook — Young Adult book reviews
I really wanted to enjoy this book because I love the idea of it, but I just kept waiting for that moment when it would get good, and it never came. It wasn't really horrible, but it never got interesting; it never piqued my interest; and I never felt invested in the story or characters.
In some ways, I feel like nothing really happened in Prison Nation . The plot is exactly as you would expect it to be with no surprises, no twists, no turns, and no exciting climax. Prison Nation was missing that extra element that would have made it an interesting and engaging book. The whole time while reading, I was struggling to figure out the story. In some ways, I had no idea where it was headed, just because it was only ever following the route I expected it to take. I kept waiting for that moment where I would be surprised and excited and engaged, but it never came. So I was constantly just sitting there a little puzzled and confused by the book.
None of the characters in Prison Nation stood out to me. Millie was… a little dull. I suppose that's always a problem when the main character is raised to be a brainwashed cookie cutter who never questions the Nation. She does have her redeeming moment at the end, but I think it was just too little too late. For 95% of the book, Millie read a bit like an emotionless robot. She lived her life, she went through the motions, she never questioned the Nation (until the very end), and it just made reading a little dull.
And the love interest was really forced; it was definitely a case of insta-love. Millie knows Reed for two weeks, they go on one date (which wasn't even supposed to be a date—I'm being generous by calling it that), and we read like two of their conversations, and then Reed is saying things like this:
The only character who really interested me was Orrin, and he only has a few lines in the whole book (all of which were notes written on paper). He was a sweet, caring, wise father figure—the kind that dishes out excellent advice that makes you think. Given the limitations of Orrin's dialogue in the book, it's quite impressive that he's the most interesting character in the book. It's just a shame that the rest of the characters didn't have that same level of depth.
Overall, I didn't despise Prison Nation , it just never interested me. There were also a few unanswered questions that really annoyed me. Millie constantly refers to some sort of "fog" taking over her mind and making her glaze over. It almost sounds like some sort of Novocain, but it's never ever explained. Two other characters refer to this "fog", but we never actually find out what the heck it is. There isn't even a promise that it will be addressed in book two, so it just left me a bit frustrated and confused.
There certainly is an interesting story here in Prison Nation, but I don't think it was executed very well. It's missing that extra layer of depth and excitement that will really rope you in as a reader.
I really wanted to enjoy this book because I love the idea of it, but I just kept waiting for that moment when it would get good, and it never came. It wasn't really horrible, but it never got interesting; it never piqued my interest; and I never felt invested in the story or characters.
In some ways, I feel like nothing really happened in Prison Nation . The plot is exactly as you would expect it to be with no surprises, no twists, no turns, and no exciting climax. Prison Nation was missing that extra element that would have made it an interesting and engaging book. The whole time while reading, I was struggling to figure out the story. In some ways, I had no idea where it was headed, just because it was only ever following the route I expected it to take. I kept waiting for that moment where I would be surprised and excited and engaged, but it never came. So I was constantly just sitting there a little puzzled and confused by the book.
None of the characters in Prison Nation stood out to me. Millie was… a little dull. I suppose that's always a problem when the main character is raised to be a brainwashed cookie cutter who never questions the Nation. She does have her redeeming moment at the end, but I think it was just too little too late. For 95% of the book, Millie read a bit like an emotionless robot. She lived her life, she went through the motions, she never questioned the Nation (until the very end), and it just made reading a little dull.
And the love interest was really forced; it was definitely a case of insta-love. Millie knows Reed for two weeks, they go on one date (which wasn't even supposed to be a date—I'm being generous by calling it that), and we read like two of their conversations, and then Reed is saying things like this:
"I need you, Millie. I am falling in love with you, and I can't lose you now."
—Prison Nation, Page 227
"If I had to live without you, Millie. If for some reason you were gone… I would never have to think twice. I would miss you with every fiber of who I am."
—Prison Nation, Page 236
The only character who really interested me was Orrin, and he only has a few lines in the whole book (all of which were notes written on paper). He was a sweet, caring, wise father figure—the kind that dishes out excellent advice that makes you think. Given the limitations of Orrin's dialogue in the book, it's quite impressive that he's the most interesting character in the book. It's just a shame that the rest of the characters didn't have that same level of depth.
Overall, I didn't despise Prison Nation , it just never interested me. There were also a few unanswered questions that really annoyed me. Millie constantly refers to some sort of "fog" taking over her mind and making her glaze over. It almost sounds like some sort of Novocain, but it's never ever explained. Two other characters refer to this "fog", but we never actually find out what the heck it is. There isn't even a promise that it will be addressed in book two, so it just left me a bit frustrated and confused.
There certainly is an interesting story here in Prison Nation, but I don't think it was executed very well. It's missing that extra layer of depth and excitement that will really rope you in as a reader.
January 20, 2012
I just finished Jenni Merritt's debut novel this morning and have to say it has the makings of just a "beginning" - the way it ended, while kind of low-key, was also vaguely epic, or rather it spoke of much epicness to come. Basically, I think there should be a sequel. Before I get onto that in more detail, I'll briefly mention the story itself. Millie 942B is a "Jail Baby", born into a huge prison that her parents are locked in for life. She's about to turn 18, and upon her 18th birthday will be set free from the Prison. She's set to become a part of "The Nation", a proud and hard-working citizen for the cause. Only there's a lot she doesn't know about the Nation she's been taught (read: a wee bit brainwashed) to love all these years. She gets hints here & there prior to her release, but none of them make sense to her until she does get free, and finally learns certain truths - about her parents' story, and about some of the so-called criminals she shared her living space with for her first 18 years.
Okay, so back to the sequel stuff. I think that what would happen in the sequel is stuff that I wanted to see happen throughout this entire novel - somebody (read: Millie) somehow breaking back into the prison & freeing some people...or somehow destroying the entire prison, maybe. ;) I guess I have something in mind like from Dean Koontz's Twilight Eyes, where Slim & Rya ...well, let's not get into that, but suffice it to say it was full of EPICIVITY! I feel like a sequel to Prison Nation could be full of the same!
When I was first reading Prison Nation, I felt like it was moving too slowly and that too much time was spent in the prison, prior to Millie's release. I wanted to get to her release & see what she did with it, what she discovered, etc. To be honest I didn't really see the good drama/action of the latter part of the book coming. I wasn't sure that things were going to pick up speed at any point. But they did! I definitely preferred the last 100 pages, I think. But in hindsight, I definitely think that the first parts of the book were useful for building tension, and of course for setting the scene for what was, in a sense, the beginning of Millie's real life. I'm just not sure that this setting of the scene needed to be so drawn out. There were certain scenes that were incredibly poignant that were indeed necessary, but sometimes I thought we saw a bit too much of the mundaneness of everyday prison life.
All in all, this story has the makings of being completely epic (yes, I'm using that word a lot) and I would definitely read a sequel. But I'd want to see the tension a lot more present throughout the whole book, and the action a lot more consistent. Of course sometimes you need "down time" to give your poor heart a rest from said tension... But still, fast-paced and gripping is a great thing.
To summarise, I think Jenni's debut shows a lot of promise for this young author & I can't wait to see what she does next!
Okay, so back to the sequel stuff. I think that what would happen in the sequel is stuff that I wanted to see happen throughout this entire novel - somebody (read: Millie) somehow breaking back into the prison & freeing some people...or somehow destroying the entire prison, maybe. ;) I guess I have something in mind like from Dean Koontz's Twilight Eyes, where Slim & Rya ...well, let's not get into that, but suffice it to say it was full of EPICIVITY! I feel like a sequel to Prison Nation could be full of the same!
When I was first reading Prison Nation, I felt like it was moving too slowly and that too much time was spent in the prison, prior to Millie's release. I wanted to get to her release & see what she did with it, what she discovered, etc. To be honest I didn't really see the good drama/action of the latter part of the book coming. I wasn't sure that things were going to pick up speed at any point. But they did! I definitely preferred the last 100 pages, I think. But in hindsight, I definitely think that the first parts of the book were useful for building tension, and of course for setting the scene for what was, in a sense, the beginning of Millie's real life. I'm just not sure that this setting of the scene needed to be so drawn out. There were certain scenes that were incredibly poignant that were indeed necessary, but sometimes I thought we saw a bit too much of the mundaneness of everyday prison life.
All in all, this story has the makings of being completely epic (yes, I'm using that word a lot) and I would definitely read a sequel. But I'd want to see the tension a lot more present throughout the whole book, and the action a lot more consistent. Of course sometimes you need "down time" to give your poor heart a rest from said tension... But still, fast-paced and gripping is a great thing.
To summarise, I think Jenni's debut shows a lot of promise for this young author & I can't wait to see what she does next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2013
Millie 942B was a Jail Baby. She was born and raised inside of Spokane Prison, living in small cell with her parents. She never knew why her parents were locked up but she didn’t want to know – soon she will be released into the Nation and be a part of the community. But doubt sets in her mind because everything will change when she turns 18. Finding out what her parents actually did made her furious but when she gets out, she finds out the truth about the Nation and the reason why everyone calls it Prison Nation. People disappearing, prisons on every corner of the Nation and a great Wall that surrounds it to not only keep everyone in but also keep everyone out. Losing her close friends but finding love is unexpected but she is strong. She is strong and free.
Prison Nation is Dystopian novel about a girl who believes in the country until everything that she knew is a lie. Millie is a very complicating character and she tried to be a good citizen. But seeing things with her own eyes makes her doubt everything that she ever knew. I really thought that she was very strong and enjoyed reading about her character. There were many other characters in the book that made the story entertaining like Jude the guard, Maria, and even the guy who worked in the Records building.
I do think that there are a lot of questions that I wish I found answers to. Who owns the apples? How is the government run and by who? What is the fog that Millie always gets? This was never explained in the book and when I read Dystopian novels, I want to know at least the Government system. There is second book in this series that I wish to read and maybe then I will find out what it means.
Overall, this was an entertaining read, slow at times. There is a little bit of a cliffhanger at the end but it’s explainable and fits perfectly into the series.
”Imagine living in happiness. Imagine eating all the apples you ever wanted, and knowing that at the end of the day, you would still be free. You would still be in my arms”.
Prison Nation is Dystopian novel about a girl who believes in the country until everything that she knew is a lie. Millie is a very complicating character and she tried to be a good citizen. But seeing things with her own eyes makes her doubt everything that she ever knew. I really thought that she was very strong and enjoyed reading about her character. There were many other characters in the book that made the story entertaining like Jude the guard, Maria, and even the guy who worked in the Records building.
I do think that there are a lot of questions that I wish I found answers to. Who owns the apples? How is the government run and by who? What is the fog that Millie always gets? This was never explained in the book and when I read Dystopian novels, I want to know at least the Government system. There is second book in this series that I wish to read and maybe then I will find out what it means.
Overall, this was an entertaining read, slow at times. There is a little bit of a cliffhanger at the end but it’s explainable and fits perfectly into the series.
June 22, 2012
A dystopian future that feels so real and realistic that you can almost see it coming. Millie is a young girl about to turn 18, and she was born and raised in prison. In this future, any small crime can land you decades in prisons as large as cities. Raised in blind belief of the system, by parents who rarely are focused on reality, Millie has always had to rely on herself. After reaching 18, she is finally released into the outside world, and allowed to meet people very different then her. As she discovers that her world isn't what she thought it was, and that the system if incredibly flawed, she finds herself becoming more independent and free then she's ever been.
Very well written, this story brings you exactly what you want from the genre, ultimate bleakness with just a small spark of hope. The future imagined in this book feels like it could be the future waiting for this country. Even the way it happened is similar to events happening now. I would like to think that we would never quite allow something this horrible to happen, but somehow I think they would be sneaky about it, and give us no choice, same as in the book. The prison system at first seems a little over the top, till you realize it's the ultimate profit machine for the country. The prisoners work long hours, eat little, require little space, and have no free time or free will. Everything they have or need within the prison is taking from the piddly wages they make, so even those wages are given back to government, most likely at a profit. A horrible way to live, and a terrible future to imagine. Still, there is hope in the book, and the people are not all brainwashed yet. I liked the ending and the choice made my Millie and Reed. It feels like they might actually make a difference, since a government that corrupt is just waiting for the right spark to take it down.
Very well written, this story brings you exactly what you want from the genre, ultimate bleakness with just a small spark of hope. The future imagined in this book feels like it could be the future waiting for this country. Even the way it happened is similar to events happening now. I would like to think that we would never quite allow something this horrible to happen, but somehow I think they would be sneaky about it, and give us no choice, same as in the book. The prison system at first seems a little over the top, till you realize it's the ultimate profit machine for the country. The prisoners work long hours, eat little, require little space, and have no free time or free will. Everything they have or need within the prison is taking from the piddly wages they make, so even those wages are given back to government, most likely at a profit. A horrible way to live, and a terrible future to imagine. Still, there is hope in the book, and the people are not all brainwashed yet. I liked the ending and the choice made my Millie and Reed. It feels like they might actually make a difference, since a government that corrupt is just waiting for the right spark to take it down.
April 2, 2012
Found this for free on Amazon, and I must say I am very impressed that this is a debut novel.
Another self published book that I enjoyed. It takes place in a futuristic, messed up America,where people are no longer free until proven guilty.
Prison Nation had me glued from the beginning. Millie was born in the prison, lived in the prison her entire life, and was about to be released on her 18th birthday. While some may think that the beginning was slow and seemed to take forever for her to get on the outside, I will have to humbly disagree. Following Millie through her everyday, mundane (sometimes not so mundane) life in prison really helped you to grasp on to the character. You fall in love with her. Everything in the prison was perfectly explained and we got to know, kind of, what the Nation was about. I say that because you learn the “Nation” is not what you expect when you’re actually outside.
While I hated her being locked up, the writing and story was better, to me, when she was still in prison. Certain things went by too quickly and other things were just too coincidental, such as Jude giving her something and then Reed wanting to run away right after. It was just perfectly (or not so perfectly to me) played out. Also, I get why they didn't help their friend when she was being accused but I just couldn't run away so quickly and leave her to rot. Granted, there was nothing they could have done.
Either way, I loved it and I can't wait for the next book. I have no idea how they are going to do what they plan on doing, but kudos to them. I have no idea where Merritt will take the next novel in this messed up world that she created.
Another self published book that I enjoyed. It takes place in a futuristic, messed up America,where people are no longer free until proven guilty.
Prison Nation had me glued from the beginning. Millie was born in the prison, lived in the prison her entire life, and was about to be released on her 18th birthday. While some may think that the beginning was slow and seemed to take forever for her to get on the outside, I will have to humbly disagree. Following Millie through her everyday, mundane (sometimes not so mundane) life in prison really helped you to grasp on to the character. You fall in love with her. Everything in the prison was perfectly explained and we got to know, kind of, what the Nation was about. I say that because you learn the “Nation” is not what you expect when you’re actually outside.
While I hated her being locked up, the writing and story was better, to me, when she was still in prison. Certain things went by too quickly and other things were just too coincidental, such as Jude giving her something and then Reed wanting to run away right after. It was just perfectly (or not so perfectly to me) played out. Also, I get why they didn't help their friend when she was being accused but I just couldn't run away so quickly and leave her to rot. Granted, there was nothing they could have done.
Either way, I loved it and I can't wait for the next book. I have no idea how they are going to do what they plan on doing, but kudos to them. I have no idea where Merritt will take the next novel in this messed up world that she created.
June 14, 2013
This book started off and I loved it. I loved the whole first part of the book (though I thought it was odd that Carl just shows up suddenly...why didn't he get transfered sooner?). I was hoping it would continue being great once Millie got out, but unfortunately it just wasn't. Everything was so easy and happened so quickly. I felt no chemistry between Millie and Reed and everything was just like sudden.
January 11, 2012
A good read all in all. The story has a slow pace at first but it picks up eventually - part of story building. I personally like how Millie and her parent's relationship affected me. There were certain points that made me cry.
Does this book have a sequel? Well, I am just a little bit disturbed in the end. I mean what's the point of going through all that if they're going to turn their back against that rusty door? They're already there, they barely made it there, and they’ve lost Eddie in the process (Oh Eddie and his stupid red hair - I so love that character!) *sigh*
But if there is a next book, I got no problem with the ending - at all! :) It's just that I'm irked a bit when they decided to go back to that hell after all they've gone through (okay, I've already said that).
Again, if there is a part two, that ending would lead to an interesting book two. I’m thinking about both of them (Millie and Reed) leading a rebellion against the Nation, saving Orin and Maria, freeing the innocents, bringing back justice, a reunion with Millie's parents, and the inevitable encounter with Carl. I wonder how Ms Jenni Merritt would play with so many possibilities. :)
Does this book have a sequel? Well, I am just a little bit disturbed in the end. I mean what's the point of going through all that if they're going to turn their back against that rusty door? They're already there, they barely made it there, and they’ve lost Eddie in the process (Oh Eddie and his stupid red hair - I so love that character!) *sigh*
But if there is a next book, I got no problem with the ending - at all! :) It's just that I'm irked a bit when they decided to go back to that hell after all they've gone through (okay, I've already said that).
Again, if there is a part two, that ending would lead to an interesting book two. I’m thinking about both of them (Millie and Reed) leading a rebellion against the Nation, saving Orin and Maria, freeing the innocents, bringing back justice, a reunion with Millie's parents, and the inevitable encounter with Carl. I wonder how Ms Jenni Merritt would play with so many possibilities. :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2012
I almost put this down after about fifteen pages or so, but I'm glad I didn't. I'm also content with the way it ended. I emailed the author asking if she intends to continue the story but from the other character's perspective, and she said she most likely will. In my opinion, he just doesn't seem strong enough to carry a full story of his own, but maybe that's just because we see and take everything in through Millie's perspective. There were a few things that were pretty predictable to me (I read a lot, maybe that's why), but it seemed to work for the story.
Recommended.
Recommended.
March 25, 2012
This was a great book! Very well written and a unique concept. It was very different from all the other dystopians that I have read this month. This author shows a lot of promise. My only complaint was that the stories end felt like it should be the middle to me! It seemed like a new adventure was about to start and I was all set to keep reading and it was over. Hopefully there will be a second book to tell more about Milley and Riley, I would love to see how their story develops!
April 10, 2012
I wanted to like this but just could not get into it. embarrassing typos, unrealistic setup and uncompelling characters. apparently the only books that sell these days are about young girls making it on their own against totalitarian governments. (hey! facism is the new vampire!)
it is the setup for a larger novel, I suppose. maybe with some editing and plotline resolution this could be interesting.
it is the setup for a larger novel, I suppose. maybe with some editing and plotline resolution this could be interesting.
July 15, 2012
I would have done 3.5 if it was an option.
Amazon said if you liked The Hunger Games, you would like this. I didn't see that. I was more reminded of Twilight, mostly because of the naïveté of Millie. There was an unexpected twist and one I felt like I should have seen coming. Twists are good though.
The writing was a bit amateur and could have used better editing. I don't think eyes "creep" or "trail" as much as they do in this book.
Amazon said if you liked The Hunger Games, you would like this. I didn't see that. I was more reminded of Twilight, mostly because of the naïveté of Millie. There was an unexpected twist and one I felt like I should have seen coming. Twists are good though.
The writing was a bit amateur and could have used better editing. I don't think eyes "creep" or "trail" as much as they do in this book.
December 22, 2011
I think this book is AMAZING! The author did an awesome job giving details at certain points and holding others till later, which I found make me want to keep reading. The main character Millie has alot to learn about life and is just thrown into the world with no real knowledge of it, only what she has been told. Great read, great author and I cant wait for another book!
January 16, 2012
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. I loved the book and I look forward to reading more work in the future by this budding author! I hear rumors there may be a second book about Millie (she left Prison Nation wide open for a sequel) and I know she has lots of other ideas.
Read my full review at: http://ruthiestickney.blogspot.com/20...
Read my full review at: http://ruthiestickney.blogspot.com/20...
January 19, 2012
This is an amazing unique story, its captivating and exciting as you follow the life of young Millie as she experiences life and discovers the truth about the world. This book will keep you reading nonstop til the end then have you waiting for a sequel.
January 10, 2012
I was hooked as soon as I started reading this book! I absolutely love it!One of the very best books I've read in quite a while! A very thought provoking book and very creative! Just the right amount of suspense! I hope there will be a sequel because I will be getting it the day it comes out!
September 2, 2012
I thought this book had an interesting concept. Not sure how much experience the author has had with writing but she did a fairly good job of fleshing out the story. Could have been a little more detailed and descriptive, but overall it was an enjoyable read.
July 3, 2015
I got this book free from Amazon so I wasn't expecting much. I was really surprised how good it was. The writing wasn't top of the line but the idea was really new and interesting. If you like books about the time "after" give this one a read.
April 3, 2012
It was good until about 80% of the way in. The ending kind of fell flat.
Want to read
March 15, 2013This has been in my tbr shelf for a while and it's FREE right now at Amazon. : )
September 11, 2013
Awesome book loved every page turning moment.
October 12, 2014
The author managed to incorporate Hey Jude into a dystopian novel.
LIFE=COMPLETE.
LIFE=COMPLETE.
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