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Built on Fear #2
Isolation
After reaching the Safe Zone, Fallon and the others are left to pick up the pieces of a broken America. They must learn to inject themselves into this new life if they hope to survive. Some will battle for their country; while others summon every ounce of the energy they possess just to stay alive in the aftermath of this devastating war. Lives will spiral and blood will spill as America tries to regain hold of its land and rebuild a lost society. Fallon and his friends have no idea what living in this safe zone means, but they will soon find out. Struggling in the depths of desperation, they learn the true meaning of loneliness. An intense story of survival, friendship and allegiance.
- GenresDystopia
252 pages, Unknown Binding
First published October 14, 2012
40 people want to read
About the author
Shandy L. Kurth
9 books85 followersI was born and raised in Wichita Kansas. I love writing, reading, my beautiful baby girl and my hubby. I like to listen to Rock and Roll old or new and read just about anything YA although I'm still working on getting into the paranormal.
When I am writing I just can't wait to see whats going to happen next! If you do not like my characters do not blame me, blame them! They have a mind of their own! Known for the roller coaster ride I take readers on! Happy Reading!
When I am writing I just can't wait to see whats going to happen next! If you do not like my characters do not blame me, blame them! They have a mind of their own! Known for the roller coaster ride I take readers on! Happy Reading!
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 21, 2013
Premise:
Canada overthrew the USA, leaving it in shambles. The American survivors have banded with the military to create safe zones and to attempt to rebuild civilization even as the war continues. In the prequel, Devastation, we followed a group of characters, real people, as they fought to survive overwhelming obstacles to reach safety.
And they’re back.
Isolation takes us back into this dystopia where America is in ruins. It brings us right to the characters we’ve fallen in love with in the first book, and shows us that even after reaching the Safe Zone, life isn’t so easy, and actually quite perilous.
My Review:
The good:
Shandy has done it again. She has a talent at putting you on the edge of your seat, making you yearn for more. She weaves a world of confusion and terror so brilliantly that you feel the emotion evoked by the characters. I really enjoyed it, and am looking forward to her other work. I will also note that I read it in under a day; it was that good.
The bad:
Isolation was a group of connected short stories thrown together. Don’t get me wrong; the individual stories were intense, but each character set had their own plot to follow without a big overall story. I’m sure just surviving in this world was the notion, but this doesn’t sit well with me. The book follows numerous characters, and bounces POV enough to make your head spin. Shandy does it well, but it’s not something I prefer.
Some other minor irritants were lack of description of surroundings except during intense, action-packed scenes, location shifts were rough and often just not well done, the dialog structure sometimes just wasn’t believable with a single character speaking both formal and informal in the same paragraph, and then some grammatical and syntax issues—all minor and some possibly related to eBook formatting problems with the copy I have.
My Final Thoughts:
As with the first book, Shandy kept me reading until the very end. This is a series that people should read. I mean it. Despite my quips about it, I really enjoy the world she created, and have grown to love the characters. I do recommend reading Devastation first for the ease of understanding the references in Isolation. Just remember that when you get to Isolation, it’s more of numerous short stories in one with a common clause of survival in the same land and you’ll do just fine.
Read it. Love it.
Canada overthrew the USA, leaving it in shambles. The American survivors have banded with the military to create safe zones and to attempt to rebuild civilization even as the war continues. In the prequel, Devastation, we followed a group of characters, real people, as they fought to survive overwhelming obstacles to reach safety.
And they’re back.
Isolation takes us back into this dystopia where America is in ruins. It brings us right to the characters we’ve fallen in love with in the first book, and shows us that even after reaching the Safe Zone, life isn’t so easy, and actually quite perilous.
My Review:
The good:
Shandy has done it again. She has a talent at putting you on the edge of your seat, making you yearn for more. She weaves a world of confusion and terror so brilliantly that you feel the emotion evoked by the characters. I really enjoyed it, and am looking forward to her other work. I will also note that I read it in under a day; it was that good.
The bad:
Isolation was a group of connected short stories thrown together. Don’t get me wrong; the individual stories were intense, but each character set had their own plot to follow without a big overall story. I’m sure just surviving in this world was the notion, but this doesn’t sit well with me. The book follows numerous characters, and bounces POV enough to make your head spin. Shandy does it well, but it’s not something I prefer.
Some other minor irritants were lack of description of surroundings except during intense, action-packed scenes, location shifts were rough and often just not well done, the dialog structure sometimes just wasn’t believable with a single character speaking both formal and informal in the same paragraph, and then some grammatical and syntax issues—all minor and some possibly related to eBook formatting problems with the copy I have.
My Final Thoughts:
As with the first book, Shandy kept me reading until the very end. This is a series that people should read. I mean it. Despite my quips about it, I really enjoy the world she created, and have grown to love the characters. I do recommend reading Devastation first for the ease of understanding the references in Isolation. Just remember that when you get to Isolation, it’s more of numerous short stories in one with a common clause of survival in the same land and you’ll do just fine.
Read it. Love it.
October 23, 2012
Isolation picks up where Devastation left off, all of the kids spread out in the Safe Zone, after a long, terrifying journey to get there where they suffered through starvation, dehydration, and debilitating fear. Even after reaching their destination Fallon, Desiree, Sandi, Brody and Guy are left to realize that there is nothing SAFE about the Safe Zone. America is still in the war with Canada, life is hard and nothing like before the war, and the kids have been forced to grow up way to fast. Living in group homes and working wherever the government tells them to work, school and being a normal kid is a thing of the past. Fallon and Desiree are finally back together again after being branded as traitors and then pardoned, but they only have a few days together before Fallon is sent off to war, as every able-bodied person, male or female, over the age of 17 is. Brody and Sandi have started a new relationship even though they know that they will both be sent off to war soon and who knows when they will see each other again. Guy, the Canadian that saved their lives, is fixing to be thrown into a situation that he might never get out of, spying on his own country to help the Americans. Will the kids make it through alive? Will their relationships last? What else can the world throw at them that it hasn’t already? Apparently, it can throw so much more at them as their journey continues…in the Safe Zone…and in the war.
Isolation was a very enjoyable, action packed read. I found myself holding my breath on multiple occasions and also crying my eyes out. These kids have went through so much, in the first book and the second. The setting just seems like it could be realistic, like it could happen tomorrow. You instantly connect with the characters and you bond with them in ways that have you fully invested in their futures. In Isolation, new characters are introduced and right off the bat they are just part of your heart as well. 12 yr old Danny will break your heart and make you root for him till the end and Demsey is just a straight up hero in my book. I highly recommend that you pick up the Built on Fear series. I am eagerly awaiting the third installation. I actually tried to turn the page on my kindle for like 2 minutes on the last page because I just could not believe that it ended that way! I give Isolation 5 stars!
Quotes from the Book:
“Your faith, your perseverance, the fact that we’re even here! I mean…there has to be something, right?
“We’ll see each other again. In this life or the next.”
“But, life is now and none of us know if we are going to be here tomorrow, so I’m just living it.”
“I hate you because I want to ask you what to do. You’re the only one I trust but…I don’t know if I should be bothered by you, scared of you, or standing behind you.”
For more reviews of great books...and great giveaways...please visit http://cynthiashepp.wordpress.com
Isolation was a very enjoyable, action packed read. I found myself holding my breath on multiple occasions and also crying my eyes out. These kids have went through so much, in the first book and the second. The setting just seems like it could be realistic, like it could happen tomorrow. You instantly connect with the characters and you bond with them in ways that have you fully invested in their futures. In Isolation, new characters are introduced and right off the bat they are just part of your heart as well. 12 yr old Danny will break your heart and make you root for him till the end and Demsey is just a straight up hero in my book. I highly recommend that you pick up the Built on Fear series. I am eagerly awaiting the third installation. I actually tried to turn the page on my kindle for like 2 minutes on the last page because I just could not believe that it ended that way! I give Isolation 5 stars!
Quotes from the Book:
“Your faith, your perseverance, the fact that we’re even here! I mean…there has to be something, right?
“We’ll see each other again. In this life or the next.”
“But, life is now and none of us know if we are going to be here tomorrow, so I’m just living it.”
“I hate you because I want to ask you what to do. You’re the only one I trust but…I don’t know if I should be bothered by you, scared of you, or standing behind you.”
For more reviews of great books...and great giveaways...please visit http://cynthiashepp.wordpress.com
October 20, 2012
I LOVED this book! I unfortunately haven’t had the pleasure of reading the first book in this series, Devastation, but I will soon be fixing that! Fallon, Desiree, Sandi, Brody, and Guy are the 5 main characters in this second installment which I’ve heard continues where the first left off. Having not read the first book I thought I would be a little lost, but Shandy did an amazing job of giving just enough details from the first book so I wasn’t. I quickly got use to the jumping back and forth from each character’s point of view and I think Shandy doing that made this book even more remarkable.
America and Canada are at war, which I find a fascinating and original concept. Fallon, Desiree, Sandi and Brody are all placed in temporary homes until they reach the age of 17 and are old enough to join the military. It’s not a choice, just something everyone is now forced to do. Fallon is first to join and quickly moves up the ranks, not just because of his quick thinking and leadership skills, but because a lot of people don’t live to long once they join. Soon enough it’s Brody’s turn to join also. Watching and reading about these boys at war broke my heart, not to mention the fact that they are torn away from those they love. I can’t even imagine how it would feel to leave people behind, or to be left behind for that matter. Desiree and Sandi can though and boy can I say I’m glad I’m not them.
Desiree tries to keep her nose out of stuff in her temporary placement but fails and soon ends up suffering for that. I ached for her for not only losing Fallon, but watching all the suffering she is put through after he is gone. She is a very tough girl and I would love to meet her. Sandi too. Sandi is stuck in a temporary home away from Desiree, but makes friend with a new boy whom I just adore. Danny really shone throughout this book and I can’t wait to read more about him. Sandi and Danny go through some very tough and trying situations and I was horrified with what was happening to them with no one doing anything about it, but that’s the sad world they live in now. They have each other’s back and no one could change that.
Shandy paints a very lifelike picture with her words and I felt like I was there right alongside the characters in their world. I was yelling at Kyle and Charlie and praying for them right along with Desiree. I can’t wait for the next book in this exhilarating story. I’m hoping there is a next one!
America and Canada are at war, which I find a fascinating and original concept. Fallon, Desiree, Sandi and Brody are all placed in temporary homes until they reach the age of 17 and are old enough to join the military. It’s not a choice, just something everyone is now forced to do. Fallon is first to join and quickly moves up the ranks, not just because of his quick thinking and leadership skills, but because a lot of people don’t live to long once they join. Soon enough it’s Brody’s turn to join also. Watching and reading about these boys at war broke my heart, not to mention the fact that they are torn away from those they love. I can’t even imagine how it would feel to leave people behind, or to be left behind for that matter. Desiree and Sandi can though and boy can I say I’m glad I’m not them.
Desiree tries to keep her nose out of stuff in her temporary placement but fails and soon ends up suffering for that. I ached for her for not only losing Fallon, but watching all the suffering she is put through after he is gone. She is a very tough girl and I would love to meet her. Sandi too. Sandi is stuck in a temporary home away from Desiree, but makes friend with a new boy whom I just adore. Danny really shone throughout this book and I can’t wait to read more about him. Sandi and Danny go through some very tough and trying situations and I was horrified with what was happening to them with no one doing anything about it, but that’s the sad world they live in now. They have each other’s back and no one could change that.
Shandy paints a very lifelike picture with her words and I felt like I was there right alongside the characters in their world. I was yelling at Kyle and Charlie and praying for them right along with Desiree. I can’t wait for the next book in this exhilarating story. I’m hoping there is a next one!
October 4, 2012
Isolation by Shandy Kurth continues right where the first book in the series, Devastation, leaves off. I read Devastation many months ago after meeting Shandy Kurth on our Books Books Books facebook page. I must admit that this series is not my usual genre to read but I thought I would give it a try and I am soooo happy that I did! Her writing is easily read. There are five main characters and I normally would get confused when there are many characters but I easily followed them all.
In this book, the five main characters from Devastation finally reach the “safe zone” and they are split up and placed in their temporary homes where they are tasked with different jobs until they are old enough to join the army….which is mandatory. And just because they are in the “safe zone,” does not mean they are safe.
This story broke my heart as I read about all the horrors these teenage kids had to go through just to stay alive. No one should ever have to face all that they do. They have so much determination to stay alive and are some of the most caring teenagers anyone will ever meet. They struggle to take care of themselves but also try to help others at the same time. I know I would have never been able to endure the experiences that they do and I can’t say that I would have stayed alive as long as they do…giving up would have been too easy.
There are two small romances also in this story and that made it even more emotional for me. Can you imagine not knowing whether the girl or guy you care for or love is alive or not?? Most of us luckily can answer no to that question. This story will make your heart ache to read it but because of that it is an amazing read. I feel lucky that I was given this chance to read and review Isolation prior to its release and I look forward to reading what comes next in this series
In this book, the five main characters from Devastation finally reach the “safe zone” and they are split up and placed in their temporary homes where they are tasked with different jobs until they are old enough to join the army….which is mandatory. And just because they are in the “safe zone,” does not mean they are safe.
This story broke my heart as I read about all the horrors these teenage kids had to go through just to stay alive. No one should ever have to face all that they do. They have so much determination to stay alive and are some of the most caring teenagers anyone will ever meet. They struggle to take care of themselves but also try to help others at the same time. I know I would have never been able to endure the experiences that they do and I can’t say that I would have stayed alive as long as they do…giving up would have been too easy.
There are two small romances also in this story and that made it even more emotional for me. Can you imagine not knowing whether the girl or guy you care for or love is alive or not?? Most of us luckily can answer no to that question. This story will make your heart ache to read it but because of that it is an amazing read. I feel lucky that I was given this chance to read and review Isolation prior to its release and I look forward to reading what comes next in this series
October 16, 2012
My review of Isolation; Built on Fear by Shandy L. Keith
Rating 4****
This book was provided free from the author on exchange for honest literary review. The thoughts expressed here are solely my own.
While the kids have reached the Safe Zone set up by the US military. Life continues to be a struggle for each of the kids. Fallon and Desiree are able to finally reconnect but both are still deeply scarred from the past. Brody and Sandy have developed a deep relationship after he was entrusted with watching over her. Numerous other loss are sent off to war at the age of 16, those younger than that still have jobs in the camps. Life is far from what it was prior to the war.
The amount of physical and emotional pain this group of kids have weathered is purely amazing. I truly believe I would have been one of the ones so scarred I couldn't go forth. Shandy conveys the emotions of each child's story well and with conviction. My only gripe is I wish there was a little more depth added to each chapter. I know keeping it clear and concise is the rule. But pairing of this story is soo good that it felt like each adventure and undercurrent could go a little deeper. A solid follow up to Devastation. A quick and good read .
Yatr review panel review by Michelle McQueen
Rating 4****
This book was provided free from the author on exchange for honest literary review. The thoughts expressed here are solely my own.
While the kids have reached the Safe Zone set up by the US military. Life continues to be a struggle for each of the kids. Fallon and Desiree are able to finally reconnect but both are still deeply scarred from the past. Brody and Sandy have developed a deep relationship after he was entrusted with watching over her. Numerous other loss are sent off to war at the age of 16, those younger than that still have jobs in the camps. Life is far from what it was prior to the war.
The amount of physical and emotional pain this group of kids have weathered is purely amazing. I truly believe I would have been one of the ones so scarred I couldn't go forth. Shandy conveys the emotions of each child's story well and with conviction. My only gripe is I wish there was a little more depth added to each chapter. I know keeping it clear and concise is the rule. But pairing of this story is soo good that it felt like each adventure and undercurrent could go a little deeper. A solid follow up to Devastation. A quick and good read .
Yatr review panel review by Michelle McQueen
January 1, 2013
Disclaimer: I was given an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I just LOVE this series! Between the characters and all their struggles to the idea of America being at war with Canada, of all countries, these books have really pulled me in. New characters are introduced in this installment, and some familiar characters go through harrowing events. There are budding relationships, separations, and treks to find loved ones, both family and friends. To say this story pulls at your emotions is a bit of an understatement: I was almost screaming at the book in certain places (if I hadn't been at work I probably would have), and I had tears of joy as well as tears of sadness.
I definitely need the next one ASAP, because I feel left hanging by the ending, and I just want more of Fallon and Des and everybody else. =)
5 stars (because that's as high as the rating goes)
I just LOVE this series! Between the characters and all their struggles to the idea of America being at war with Canada, of all countries, these books have really pulled me in. New characters are introduced in this installment, and some familiar characters go through harrowing events. There are budding relationships, separations, and treks to find loved ones, both family and friends. To say this story pulls at your emotions is a bit of an understatement: I was almost screaming at the book in certain places (if I hadn't been at work I probably would have), and I had tears of joy as well as tears of sadness.
I definitely need the next one ASAP, because I feel left hanging by the ending, and I just want more of Fallon and Des and everybody else. =)
5 stars (because that's as high as the rating goes)
May 10, 2013
In this book we are brought back into the lives of the heroes of Devastation, the first novel of the Built on Fear series by Shandy Kurth. These souls survived overwhelming odds to reach the "safe zone," and we were left believing that they had met their happy ending.
Not so much. In this installment, the author sews multiple tales of strife in which the characters are again left to fight for their lives, reiterating the ever known rule that there is no such thing as a happy ending. But there is survival, and the instinct that drives us all.
There were some minor plot and grammatical errors, but all in all it was a thrilling, emotional read that ensnared me until the last words rattled in my head. I really enjoy the work of this author and strongly recommend her work.
Not so much. In this installment, the author sews multiple tales of strife in which the characters are again left to fight for their lives, reiterating the ever known rule that there is no such thing as a happy ending. But there is survival, and the instinct that drives us all.
There were some minor plot and grammatical errors, but all in all it was a thrilling, emotional read that ensnared me until the last words rattled in my head. I really enjoy the work of this author and strongly recommend her work.
December 1, 2012
Isolation was just as good as Devastation. It has everything Devastation did. Intrigue, danger, emotion. It pulls you in from the start. Picking up right where Devastation left off. The five teens finally reach the "safe" zone. But is it really all that safe for them? It's heart wrenching to see what these kids have to go thru while their country is in shambles. Shandy has a way with words. She knows how to write a very engaging, very gripping tale. Take a chance. Pick up book 1, then grab this one! You will be taken on a wild ride as you follow the story of 5 kids, and how they are all but left alone in this world of war.
July 18, 2014
Given To Me For An Honest Review
This book is a continuance of Devastation: Built on Fear 1. The children are trying to survive in a new environment. They are struggling to learn how to live in the New United States. Food is scarce, there are some deaths and many are imprisoned. Life is still not what they remember and not what they want. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
This book is a continuance of Devastation: Built on Fear 1. The children are trying to survive in a new environment. They are struggling to learn how to live in the New United States. Food is scarce, there are some deaths and many are imprisoned. Life is still not what they remember and not what they want. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
August 18, 2014
Isolation picks up where Devastation leaves off. As with Devastation, I stayed engaged all the way to the end while reading this book. Shandy has a way of placing her readers right in the middle of the storyline.
Isolation chronicles the journey of five teens who have finally made it to safe zone. There are plot twists, compassionate scenes, and a great element of originality, for which Shandy has already established herself. Ms. Kurth, I am looking forward for what you have in store next.
Isolation chronicles the journey of five teens who have finally made it to safe zone. There are plot twists, compassionate scenes, and a great element of originality, for which Shandy has already established herself. Ms. Kurth, I am looking forward for what you have in store next.
October 3, 2012
I just finished reading this as I was given an ARC. I really liked this second installment. I found all of the characters interesting, and couldn't wait to see how it turned out for them. Of course, I want more now!
October 28, 2012
This series keeps me wanting more. I just love it. All these kids have been through the ringer and things don't seem to be getting any easier for them. There is constant danger in this "new world".
June 5, 2013
can't wait for the next book!
June 10, 2015
This book was amazing!! Seriously, don't wait. It's really worth your time.
February 6, 2013
Really enjoyed this second installment of this series. And I need the third book. Now would be good. LOL...It IS dark and not a light story, but the author has serious skills.
August 16, 2021
End of the War
Another good book that lead to further end war. This book follows the teens further to surviving the apocalypses they are facing and more.
Another good book that lead to further end war. This book follows the teens further to surviving the apocalypses they are facing and more.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews