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Into The City
How far would you go to save those you care about?
Ever since a worldwide pandemic wiped out the whole of the adult population, Lexi has done her best to keep herself and her friends safe. In a city where surnames are forbidden and youths are left to run riot, it has not been easy.
When Luther, the ruler of surnames, captures Lexi’s friend, she has no choice but to risk everything to try and get him back. The problem is… People who enter Luther’s compound don’t usually come back out.
Once inside, Lexi discovers that even those she knows best have secrets they would rather keep hidden. But that’s not all. The compound hides something bigger than anything she could have imagined. Something that has the potential to change the future, not just of the city, but of the world.
Ever since a worldwide pandemic wiped out the whole of the adult population, Lexi has done her best to keep herself and her friends safe. In a city where surnames are forbidden and youths are left to run riot, it has not been easy.
When Luther, the ruler of surnames, captures Lexi’s friend, she has no choice but to risk everything to try and get him back. The problem is… People who enter Luther’s compound don’t usually come back out.
Once inside, Lexi discovers that even those she knows best have secrets they would rather keep hidden. But that’s not all. The compound hides something bigger than anything she could have imagined. Something that has the potential to change the future, not just of the city, but of the world.
278 pages, Paperback
Published May 9, 2023
4 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 8, 2023
3.5🙈🙈 A global pandemic?? But this one wipes out all adults? Geez. Can’t lie I was nervous to read. But I can relate to this quite a bit.
February 3, 2024
'There was just something about Nate that she couldn’t resist. When she was with him, all her troubles, just seemed to disappear. He made her feel safe.'
'This is my family now'
Normally, dystopian isn't my go to however I am a fan of YA and this book won me over! Into the City screams found family and I'm here for it. I enjoyed the twists and turns, and found this book hard to put down.
'This is my family now'
Normally, dystopian isn't my go to however I am a fan of YA and this book won me over! Into the City screams found family and I'm here for it. I enjoyed the twists and turns, and found this book hard to put down.
December 15, 2023
Into the City is a Young Adult novel about a pandemic that has wiped out the adult population, leaving children of various ages fighting for survival, and how one teenaged girl must save her friends from a particularly dangerous group of children. This dystopian world is carefully thought out, and the darker side of human nature is explored. Some scenes are eerie and grotesque. The prose, the characters' perspectives, and their behaviours are consistent with how children would think and act. One interesting group of children may be further explained in future books in the series. Into the City is a believable dystopia that keeps the reader turning the pages.
September 6, 2023
Ooo! The twists in this novel! You think you have it figured out and then — WHAT was that? The ending leaves the reader feeling both vindicated and wanting more, the perfect cliffhanger for a series starter.
Into the City is a Young Adult novel, not my usual cup of tea, but I do enjoy the occasional dystopian read — and this is indeed a dark and crumbling world Cook portrays. The novel is set in the near future, in a world ravaged by an illness which attacked only its adults and left its juvenile and adolescent population intact. Intact but not unscathed. Children and teenagers left to their own devices and survival created a society in which there coexist the extremes of cruelty, embodied by the militant Lyths and drug-addled Crazies, and kindness, a small but growing community of Arkers.
Our protagonist, a young girl named Lexi and her friends, Aster, Nate, Ruby, Eden, and Marcus are inexorably pulled into this world of dangerous extremes, lured by the promise of a utopian society and their need for community. Into the city they must go. And it is there that they discover not only the origins of their fate and a new promise of their future, but also themselves. There, in the city, they must confront their past trauma, test their values, and — above all — survive.
Cook’s storytelling is on point, unravelling the tale at a quick and lively pace, matching the urgency of the characters’ lives. Likewise, Cook’s prose is well-crafted for a young adult audience, being straightforward and succinct, allowing for both the reader’s organic imaginings and providing ample description of the landscape of this dystopian world. On occasion there is the use of an overworked metaphor or simile, but this is a minor complaint given the audience it targets. These phrases have yet to jade the Young Adult reader, and indeed provide familiarity and structure to the tropes they are just learning to recognize.
A word on Cook’s characters. These too are well-developed, even as they are drawn from tropes of this genre: they are young, but mature in their self-awareness (no doubt as a result of their life experiences) and their inner reflections are both adult and childlike. The benefit for the reader is that these characters will appeal to both the teenager on the brink of Young Adult and the Older Adult, remembering their teenaged past. Their concerns are recognizable, and cross cut generational divides; we all understand the need to survive and to live with our traumas.
Into The City is a typical and atypical novel of its genre. It satisfies the genre-reader, with their expectations of the dystopian novel, but Into the City does also offer twists and revelations which will draw in the reader to end. There are surprises. What appears simple is not so, as readers will discover.
Into the City is a Young Adult novel, not my usual cup of tea, but I do enjoy the occasional dystopian read — and this is indeed a dark and crumbling world Cook portrays. The novel is set in the near future, in a world ravaged by an illness which attacked only its adults and left its juvenile and adolescent population intact. Intact but not unscathed. Children and teenagers left to their own devices and survival created a society in which there coexist the extremes of cruelty, embodied by the militant Lyths and drug-addled Crazies, and kindness, a small but growing community of Arkers.
Our protagonist, a young girl named Lexi and her friends, Aster, Nate, Ruby, Eden, and Marcus are inexorably pulled into this world of dangerous extremes, lured by the promise of a utopian society and their need for community. Into the city they must go. And it is there that they discover not only the origins of their fate and a new promise of their future, but also themselves. There, in the city, they must confront their past trauma, test their values, and — above all — survive.
Cook’s storytelling is on point, unravelling the tale at a quick and lively pace, matching the urgency of the characters’ lives. Likewise, Cook’s prose is well-crafted for a young adult audience, being straightforward and succinct, allowing for both the reader’s organic imaginings and providing ample description of the landscape of this dystopian world. On occasion there is the use of an overworked metaphor or simile, but this is a minor complaint given the audience it targets. These phrases have yet to jade the Young Adult reader, and indeed provide familiarity and structure to the tropes they are just learning to recognize.
A word on Cook’s characters. These too are well-developed, even as they are drawn from tropes of this genre: they are young, but mature in their self-awareness (no doubt as a result of their life experiences) and their inner reflections are both adult and childlike. The benefit for the reader is that these characters will appeal to both the teenager on the brink of Young Adult and the Older Adult, remembering their teenaged past. Their concerns are recognizable, and cross cut generational divides; we all understand the need to survive and to live with our traumas.
Into The City is a typical and atypical novel of its genre. It satisfies the genre-reader, with their expectations of the dystopian novel, but Into the City does also offer twists and revelations which will draw in the reader to end. There are surprises. What appears simple is not so, as readers will discover.
November 18, 2023
I finished this book in less than 24 hours. I sat for HOURS reading because I could not put this book down!
This book is a YA dystopian sci-fi about a world in which a virus has killed the adult population, leaving the children and teens to fend for themselves. Lexi and her friends have done their best to survive, despite two dangerous factions of kids roaming the streets of the nearly abandoned city. When Lexi goes in search of supplies and a present for 8-year-old Eden, she finds herself in need of rescue from one of the dangerous factions called the "crazies". A boy named Nate comes to her rescue, and shows her the safe haven he and his group have created in this dark, unforgiving landscape. Just as Lexi and her group of found family believe might actually have a chance, the second faction raids their camp and kidnaps several of their members.
Lexi and her friends have no choice but to infiltrate the enemy territory to rescue their taken friends. They've had friends kidnapped by this group before, and none of them have returned.
This book is filled with plot twists and moments I didn't see coming. I loved how the author wrote her characters into these impossible situations over and over. This book highlights the best and worst humanity has to offer in this kill or be killed world. This book is YA and due to the amount of violence and some mature themes, I think it would be best for older teens and up. I'm thrilled that this is the first of a series, I definitely will be reading the next book!
This book is a YA dystopian sci-fi about a world in which a virus has killed the adult population, leaving the children and teens to fend for themselves. Lexi and her friends have done their best to survive, despite two dangerous factions of kids roaming the streets of the nearly abandoned city. When Lexi goes in search of supplies and a present for 8-year-old Eden, she finds herself in need of rescue from one of the dangerous factions called the "crazies". A boy named Nate comes to her rescue, and shows her the safe haven he and his group have created in this dark, unforgiving landscape. Just as Lexi and her group of found family believe might actually have a chance, the second faction raids their camp and kidnaps several of their members.
Lexi and her friends have no choice but to infiltrate the enemy territory to rescue their taken friends. They've had friends kidnapped by this group before, and none of them have returned.
This book is filled with plot twists and moments I didn't see coming. I loved how the author wrote her characters into these impossible situations over and over. This book highlights the best and worst humanity has to offer in this kill or be killed world. This book is YA and due to the amount of violence and some mature themes, I think it would be best for older teens and up. I'm thrilled that this is the first of a series, I definitely will be reading the next book!
February 20, 2024
The world as we know it no longer exists. Adults have been exterminated and children are ruling the world. While trying to figure out the hierarchy of society, lines are crossed and alliances are reached. Lexi discovers that her quiet existence isn’t all that it is cracked up to be. Her safe-ish life in the forest is suddenly ripped out from under her and the only way to find it again is to venture into the city. However, what she finds there may keep her from ever returning.
Lexi is a strong, female character who leads the reader through an interesting scenario. What if kids had to rule themselves? As a female reader, I connected with her and found traveling through the storyline personal. It was a little hard to get into at first, not quite understanding the dynamics of the different groups in the book. However, once Lexi connected with Nate, I couldn’t put the book down. I loved the twists and turns throughout the story and how characters I once thought were gone would suddenly reappear. I cannot wait for the next installment in the series.
September 14, 2024
Fantastic Dystopian YA
Into the city is a must read for fans of YA dystopian everywhere. Action packed, thrilling, strong characters and emotional depth, this book has everything!
When a virus takes out all the adults in the world, the kids are left to fend for themselves. Factions grow and gangs form, but none so scary as the dreaded Lyths.
Lexi and Aster take care of a small group of kids outside of the city. When they are attacked and some of the children are taken by the Lyths, she joins forces with the Arkers, another faction, for an exciting rescue operation. But the Lyths have a few secrets, and so does Aster...
I was gripped by this story. I loved the writing style and the characters, and the twists. The slowly evolving attraction between Lexi and Nate showcased first love can still flourish under the harshest of circumstances. The ending is satisfying and conclusive, while still leaving room for a sequel if the author wanted to see where these characters go next.
Into the city is a must read for fans of YA dystopian everywhere. Action packed, thrilling, strong characters and emotional depth, this book has everything!
When a virus takes out all the adults in the world, the kids are left to fend for themselves. Factions grow and gangs form, but none so scary as the dreaded Lyths.
Lexi and Aster take care of a small group of kids outside of the city. When they are attacked and some of the children are taken by the Lyths, she joins forces with the Arkers, another faction, for an exciting rescue operation. But the Lyths have a few secrets, and so does Aster...
I was gripped by this story. I loved the writing style and the characters, and the twists. The slowly evolving attraction between Lexi and Nate showcased first love can still flourish under the harshest of circumstances. The ending is satisfying and conclusive, while still leaving room for a sequel if the author wanted to see where these characters go next.
January 24, 2024
I just wanna start by saying that I don’t read a lot of dystopian books, they’re typically not my favorite. Into the City very well may have changed my mind. This story is not only well written and the timing great, but it has characters that are very relatable. This story is about a world where a virus runs rampant and leaves only children to survive. Alexia is forced to step up and take on a role of leadership and responsibility but really struggles internally with her new role. Her struggle is one a lot of readers can relate to. This book is full of twists and turns and plot twists to keep you on the edge of your seat and the the pages turning.
November 23, 2024
A Thrilling Post-Apocalyptic Adventure with Minor Flaws
Into the City by E.J. Cook is a gripping and imaginative dive into a world where survival hinges on bravery, loyalty, and uncovering hidden truths. The story’s protagonist, Lexi, is a compelling and relatable character whose determination to protect her friends drives the heart of the novel. The unexpected twist within Luther’s compound took me by surprise and added a whole new layer to the narrative, keeping me hooked until the very end.
The book excels in its character development and world-building, painting a vivid picture of a dystopian society left in chaos after a pandemic. However, I did notice a few grammatical errors, which momentarily pulled me out of the story. Additionally, the Kindle version lacked chapter recognition, which made navigation a bit challenging.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Into the City is an engrossing read with a powerful message about sacrifice, secrets, and hope. I would recommend it to fans of dystopian thrillers looking for a fast-paced and thought-provoking adventure. Four stars!
Into the City by E.J. Cook is a gripping and imaginative dive into a world where survival hinges on bravery, loyalty, and uncovering hidden truths. The story’s protagonist, Lexi, is a compelling and relatable character whose determination to protect her friends drives the heart of the novel. The unexpected twist within Luther’s compound took me by surprise and added a whole new layer to the narrative, keeping me hooked until the very end.
The book excels in its character development and world-building, painting a vivid picture of a dystopian society left in chaos after a pandemic. However, I did notice a few grammatical errors, which momentarily pulled me out of the story. Additionally, the Kindle version lacked chapter recognition, which made navigation a bit challenging.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Into the City is an engrossing read with a powerful message about sacrifice, secrets, and hope. I would recommend it to fans of dystopian thrillers looking for a fast-paced and thought-provoking adventure. Four stars!
September 7, 2023
Dystopian with lots of twists and turns!
The premise of a world without adults drew me in but the writing and quality of the story kept me vested.
Into the City feels like a mix of The Hunger Games and Lord of the Flies. We enter a world where kids are faced with all the adult problems of survival, grief, acclimating, empathizing without any of the adult tools to adapt.
Filled with plot twists, didn’t see that coming moments, and scenes filled with humanity this is a book that definitely delivers. Dystopian at its finest and with more to come.
The premise of a world without adults drew me in but the writing and quality of the story kept me vested.
Into the City feels like a mix of The Hunger Games and Lord of the Flies. We enter a world where kids are faced with all the adult problems of survival, grief, acclimating, empathizing without any of the adult tools to adapt.
Filled with plot twists, didn’t see that coming moments, and scenes filled with humanity this is a book that definitely delivers. Dystopian at its finest and with more to come.
September 5, 2023
This book is soooooo good! I did not want to put it down. I stayed up readying it, one more chapter turned into many. Had me in suspense quite often, had no clue what was going to happen next. Absolutely enjoyed this book I would highly recommend!
June 28, 2024
Into the City is a great YA book!
I'm not normally big on pandemic type books. However, this book held my attention from page 1. The author did a fantastic job writing the story. The different characters, and details added make it hard to put down. I would recommend this book to preteen and up.
I'm not normally big on pandemic type books. However, this book held my attention from page 1. The author did a fantastic job writing the story. The different characters, and details added make it hard to put down. I would recommend this book to preteen and up.
August 28, 2023
3RD time reading actually!!! probably the best book I've read all year I just care and relate to so many of these young innocents and not so innocents, the book can be heart breaking it can be humorous and it can be slightly chilling although it doesn't descend to far into darkness. Thank you for the book Emma I'll treasure it forever
January 20, 2024
Loved this book so much. Couldn't put it down. Loved Lexi and Nate character so much. Really hope for a second book
July 11, 2024
One thing I think makes a dystopian book good is the believability of it and this book achieves this! The author does a fantastic job of painting a picture in you head of what's taking place in the book through their words. All the characters were so well developed and I truly felt like I knew them. This book kept me on me toes! Although there were things I could guess there were others that TOTALLY took me off guard.
If you love a book where good still presides in a fallen world and found family then I would highly recommend reading this!
If you love a book where good still presides in a fallen world and found family then I would highly recommend reading this!
August 28, 2023
What would you do, who would you choose, could you survive?
A story so believable it could actually happen, a read so good, you can't put it down. From beginning to end a must read, that's not predictable, and will keep you enthralled .
A story so believable it could actually happen, a read so good, you can't put it down. From beginning to end a must read, that's not predictable, and will keep you enthralled .
January 12, 2024
Great Dystopia Novel
**I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion**
Oh my goodness, where do I start?? I am a huge fan of dystopian novels and Into The City by E. J. Cook has delivered a great addition to the genre.
After a virus named "the death" kills all living adults, the children of the world are left to survive on their own. Alexia (Lexi), Aster, and Eden are three of the survivors who have found each in and formed their own family unit. While out on a mission to find something special for Eden's birthday, Lexi is pursued by the Lyths, a group of militant kids that serve the Boss. However, thanks to a distraction by another young man, Nate, Lexi is saved from their clutches. Thus begins the amazing story of survival, friendship, a little love, and trying to find peace in an unpeaceful world.
E. J. Cook has delivered a great story with great characters. I was literally sucked in by the end of the first chapter and could not stop reading. I wanted to see what was going to happen. The storyline moved along at a great pace. The characters were very well fleshed out. And the twist and turns left you saying, "What?" a lot.
I can't wait for the next installment of this series. I am on pins and needles, wondering what is going to happen next. If you like dystopia novels, this one is for you!! 5 huge stars!!
**I received a copy of this book for my honest opinion**
Oh my goodness, where do I start?? I am a huge fan of dystopian novels and Into The City by E. J. Cook has delivered a great addition to the genre.
After a virus named "the death" kills all living adults, the children of the world are left to survive on their own. Alexia (Lexi), Aster, and Eden are three of the survivors who have found each in and formed their own family unit. While out on a mission to find something special for Eden's birthday, Lexi is pursued by the Lyths, a group of militant kids that serve the Boss. However, thanks to a distraction by another young man, Nate, Lexi is saved from their clutches. Thus begins the amazing story of survival, friendship, a little love, and trying to find peace in an unpeaceful world.
E. J. Cook has delivered a great story with great characters. I was literally sucked in by the end of the first chapter and could not stop reading. I wanted to see what was going to happen. The storyline moved along at a great pace. The characters were very well fleshed out. And the twist and turns left you saying, "What?" a lot.
I can't wait for the next installment of this series. I am on pins and needles, wondering what is going to happen next. If you like dystopia novels, this one is for you!! 5 huge stars!!
May 16, 2025
Alexia Hollyhock's day came to go back into the city. But things didn't quite go to plan as her solo trip took her into enemy territory, a mission without much though of the consequences. A city without adults, rival gangs fighting for supremacy, this violent and volatile city was no place for Alexia, but needs must and her journey took her to a place where power was everything and her eyes were opened to many unexpected events.
A great, fast paced, action packed story, with a plot full of twists and turns that holds your attention throughout. Although listed as a book for Young Adults, I think this story would appeal to any age. I really enjoyed how the detailed descriptions of characters, scenery and events captured my imagination so I was able to easily picture each character and their roles in the book as they unfolded. Great job, hope there is a follow on! Love the cover BTW it gives you a great insight as to what the story is about.
A great, fast paced, action packed story, with a plot full of twists and turns that holds your attention throughout. Although listed as a book for Young Adults, I think this story would appeal to any age. I really enjoyed how the detailed descriptions of characters, scenery and events captured my imagination so I was able to easily picture each character and their roles in the book as they unfolded. Great job, hope there is a follow on! Love the cover BTW it gives you a great insight as to what the story is about.
September 9, 2023
This YA dystopian novel definitely has a lot of action in it. The current setting of the book after a global pandemic is actually quite scary, because it is so easily believable that society could degrade to such a level. The author does a great job of describing the bleak world and the brutality of the people who remain.
But amongst that is also a story of hope and love, found family and people who help each other, even in the midst of such brutality.
Overall, this book was very easy to read, and was a great story. This is a YA read, but even older adults can read this and relate to the story, and be frightened of it. Definitely worth reading!
But amongst that is also a story of hope and love, found family and people who help each other, even in the midst of such brutality.
Overall, this book was very easy to read, and was a great story. This is a YA read, but even older adults can read this and relate to the story, and be frightened of it. Definitely worth reading!
September 27, 2024
Interesting Dystopian Twist
E.J. literally thought of everything when she wrote this book! I was so captivated by the storyline and characters that I almost finished it in one day. In a world with no adults due to an outbreak four years ago, children must work together to survive this harsh new reality today. The entire book I felt like I was right there with the group of friends, fighting to return to each other and escape. There were numerous twists throughout the story that left my jaw on the floor!
E.J. literally thought of everything when she wrote this book! I was so captivated by the storyline and characters that I almost finished it in one day. In a world with no adults due to an outbreak four years ago, children must work together to survive this harsh new reality today. The entire book I felt like I was right there with the group of friends, fighting to return to each other and escape. There were numerous twists throughout the story that left my jaw on the floor!
August 22, 2023
At first I was hesitant about a pandemic book… but was I surprised! I absolutely love Lexi. I cannot wait to see what happens next. Nate is a teddy bear that I want to hug. Aster has some personal issues to work through and I hope he does that on page. I want to punch the twins myself. Calvin sucks. Luther is a nice little villain all wrapped up in a punchable face lol. When is the next installment??
May 31, 2023
Loved this book! This is the second time I have read it and both times iv loved it 😊 I can not wait to see what the future holds for nate and lexi ❤ and what actions Luther will take 🤔 absolutely love all the characters especially nate.
I'm also looking forward to finding more out about the other bunkers and if any others survived
I'm also looking forward to finding more out about the other bunkers and if any others survived
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2023
A gripping dystopian novel. Death has come with vengeance. Leaving only the young to survive. This is an outstanding story filled with lots of twists I didn't see coming. Lexi finds herself in a situation where she has to fight or die.
It's her or me... kill or killed.
I'm definitely looking forward to more from this author.
It's her or me... kill or killed.
I'm definitely looking forward to more from this author.
February 28, 2024
This book starts with a bang and has so many twists and turns it instantly hooks you! It was amazing to watch Lexi and her team take on the Lyth brothers and I can’t wait to see what this story has left to tell in book 2! I was truly captivated by this book!
November 28, 2023
3.5⭐️
This was a good read. There’s a few grammatical errors throughout but the writing is good and I enjoyed it.
This was a good read. There’s a few grammatical errors throughout but the writing is good and I enjoyed it.
September 14, 2023
This book. Boy oh boy. It was really hard to put down. Enjoyed every chapter.
November 25, 2023
Book review
Into the City
By E.J. Cook
Dystopian, YA, adventure
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How far would you go to save those you care about?
Ever since a worldwide pandemic wiped out the whole of the adult population, Lexi has done her best to keep herself and her friends safe. In a city where surnames are forbidden and youths are left to run riot, it has not been easy.
I was very kindly sent this by Emma in return for an honest review.
The twists in this novel! You think you have it figured out and then, WHAT was that? The ending leaves the reader feeling both vindicated and wanting more, the perfect cliffhanger ending and I just can’t wait to read what comes next. Into the City is a Young Adult novel, not my usual go to but this year I have definitely branched out to read more areas, but I do enjoy the occasional dystopian read and this is indeed a dark and crumbling world Emma portrays. The novel is set in the near future, in a world ravaged by an illness which attacked only its adults and left its juvenile and adolescent population intact. Intact but not unscathed. Children and teenagers left to their own devices and survival created a society in which there coexist the extremes of cruelty, embodied by the militant Lyths and drug-addled Crazies, and kindness, a small but growing community of Arkers. Our main character, a young girl named Lexi and her friends, Aster, Nate, Ruby, Eden, and Marcus are inexorably pulled into this world of dangerous extremes, lured by the promise of a utopian society and their need for community. Into the city they must go. There, in the city, they must confront their past trauma, test their values, and above all survive. Cook's storytelling is on point, unravelling the tale at a quick and lively pace, matching the urgency of the characters' lives. Likewise, Cook's prose is well-crafted for a young adult audience, being straightforward and succinct, allowing for both the reader's organic imaginings and providing ample description of the landscape of this dystopian world. A comment on Emma’s characters. These are well-developed, even as they are drawn from tropes of this genre: they are young, but mature in their self-awareness (no doubt as a result of their life experiences) and their inner reflections are both adult and childlike. The benefit for the reader is that these characters will appeal to both the teenager on the brink of Young Adult and the Older Adult, remembering their teenage past. Their concerns are recognizable, and cross cut generational divides; we all understand the need to survive and to live with our traumas.
Into The City is a typical and atypical novel of its genre. It satisfies the genre-reader, with their expectations of the dystopian novel, but Into the City does also offer twists and revelations which will draw in the reader to end. There are surprises. What appears simple is not so, as readers will discover. I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to see that the next book in the series has come out. Thank you Emma for letting me read this amazing story.
Into the City
By E.J. Cook
Dystopian, YA, adventure
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
How far would you go to save those you care about?
Ever since a worldwide pandemic wiped out the whole of the adult population, Lexi has done her best to keep herself and her friends safe. In a city where surnames are forbidden and youths are left to run riot, it has not been easy.
I was very kindly sent this by Emma in return for an honest review.
The twists in this novel! You think you have it figured out and then, WHAT was that? The ending leaves the reader feeling both vindicated and wanting more, the perfect cliffhanger ending and I just can’t wait to read what comes next. Into the City is a Young Adult novel, not my usual go to but this year I have definitely branched out to read more areas, but I do enjoy the occasional dystopian read and this is indeed a dark and crumbling world Emma portrays. The novel is set in the near future, in a world ravaged by an illness which attacked only its adults and left its juvenile and adolescent population intact. Intact but not unscathed. Children and teenagers left to their own devices and survival created a society in which there coexist the extremes of cruelty, embodied by the militant Lyths and drug-addled Crazies, and kindness, a small but growing community of Arkers. Our main character, a young girl named Lexi and her friends, Aster, Nate, Ruby, Eden, and Marcus are inexorably pulled into this world of dangerous extremes, lured by the promise of a utopian society and their need for community. Into the city they must go. There, in the city, they must confront their past trauma, test their values, and above all survive. Cook's storytelling is on point, unravelling the tale at a quick and lively pace, matching the urgency of the characters' lives. Likewise, Cook's prose is well-crafted for a young adult audience, being straightforward and succinct, allowing for both the reader's organic imaginings and providing ample description of the landscape of this dystopian world. A comment on Emma’s characters. These are well-developed, even as they are drawn from tropes of this genre: they are young, but mature in their self-awareness (no doubt as a result of their life experiences) and their inner reflections are both adult and childlike. The benefit for the reader is that these characters will appeal to both the teenager on the brink of Young Adult and the Older Adult, remembering their teenage past. Their concerns are recognizable, and cross cut generational divides; we all understand the need to survive and to live with our traumas.
Into The City is a typical and atypical novel of its genre. It satisfies the genre-reader, with their expectations of the dystopian novel, but Into the City does also offer twists and revelations which will draw in the reader to end. There are surprises. What appears simple is not so, as readers will discover. I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to see that the next book in the series has come out. Thank you Emma for letting me read this amazing story.
February 22, 2025
Compelling!
**Book Review: Into the City by Emma Cook**
Emma Cook's "Into the City" is a compelling narrative that captures the essence of urban life through the eyes of its diverse characters. Known for her keen observational skills and nuanced storytelling, Cook delivers a novel that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
**Plot and Themes**
The story follows the journey of several individuals as they navigate the complexities of city life. Cook masterfully intertwines their stories, creating a tapestry of experiences that reflect the challenges and triumphs of urban living. Themes of identity, community, and resilience are explored with depth and sensitivity, making the novel a poignant reflection on contemporary society.
**Character Development**
Cook's characters are richly drawn and multifaceted. Each protagonist is given a distinct voice and backstory, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and aspirations. The author's ability to portray the inner lives of her characters adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making their journeys all the more compelling.
**Writing Style**
Emma Cook's writing is characterized by its clarity and elegance. Her prose is both accessible and lyrical, drawing readers into the world she has created. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the nuances of human interaction. Cook's descriptive passages bring the city to life, painting vivid pictures of its streets, buildings, and inhabitants.
**Conclusion**
"Into the City" is a testament to Emma Cook's talent as a storyteller. It is a novel that resonates on multiple levels, offering readers a profound exploration of urban life. Whether you are a fan of literary fiction or simply looking for a captivating read, "Into the City" is a book that should not be missed.
**Book Review: Into the City by Emma Cook**
Emma Cook's "Into the City" is a compelling narrative that captures the essence of urban life through the eyes of its diverse characters. Known for her keen observational skills and nuanced storytelling, Cook delivers a novel that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
**Plot and Themes**
The story follows the journey of several individuals as they navigate the complexities of city life. Cook masterfully intertwines their stories, creating a tapestry of experiences that reflect the challenges and triumphs of urban living. Themes of identity, community, and resilience are explored with depth and sensitivity, making the novel a poignant reflection on contemporary society.
**Character Development**
Cook's characters are richly drawn and multifaceted. Each protagonist is given a distinct voice and backstory, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and aspirations. The author's ability to portray the inner lives of her characters adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative, making their journeys all the more compelling.
**Writing Style**
Emma Cook's writing is characterized by its clarity and elegance. Her prose is both accessible and lyrical, drawing readers into the world she has created. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the nuances of human interaction. Cook's descriptive passages bring the city to life, painting vivid pictures of its streets, buildings, and inhabitants.
**Conclusion**
"Into the City" is a testament to Emma Cook's talent as a storyteller. It is a novel that resonates on multiple levels, offering readers a profound exploration of urban life. Whether you are a fan of literary fiction or simply looking for a captivating read, "Into the City" is a book that should not be missed.
April 20, 2025
I really enjoyed the premise of this book, as it reminded me of some of my favorite literature and entertainment, namely The Lord of the Flies and the Star Trek episode "Miri." This is a post apocalyptic future society in which a virus killed off everyone who had gone through puberty. Now the City and its surrounding areas are run by the children that remain. Our main character is Alexia (Lexi), a 16 year old girl who lives in a cooperative community outside of the City. In this community she helps take care of 8 year old Eden and another boy closer to her age named Aspen. The three of them form a tight night family unit.
Early in the book, Lexi encounters Nate, a boy about her age that introduces her to another cooperative community called The Ark. Together, they join forces to try to take a stand against Luther Blackstone, a ruthless teen boy who has a strangle hold on the city alone with this bodyguards, the Lyths.
The story is well told and fast paced. And even though it reminds me of other sci fi and fantasy, it never feels derivative, but rather always seems fresh and new. Cook's choice of words and language paints such a vivid picture and is often poetic. Her characters are well developed and their personalities really shine through.
And while I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took me, I have two things I didn't enjoy. One is the main antagonist. I feel like he completely spilled the beans like a Bond villain, and for absolutely no reason. I also feel like the end was really rushed. There was a lot of build up for very little pay off. The main conflict was over so fast!
Despite that, I will read the other books in the series. I am eager to see where this story goes.
Early in the book, Lexi encounters Nate, a boy about her age that introduces her to another cooperative community called The Ark. Together, they join forces to try to take a stand against Luther Blackstone, a ruthless teen boy who has a strangle hold on the city alone with this bodyguards, the Lyths.
The story is well told and fast paced. And even though it reminds me of other sci fi and fantasy, it never feels derivative, but rather always seems fresh and new. Cook's choice of words and language paints such a vivid picture and is often poetic. Her characters are well developed and their personalities really shine through.
And while I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took me, I have two things I didn't enjoy. One is the main antagonist. I feel like he completely spilled the beans like a Bond villain, and for absolutely no reason. I also feel like the end was really rushed. There was a lot of build up for very little pay off. The main conflict was over so fast!
Despite that, I will read the other books in the series. I am eager to see where this story goes.
December 27, 2024
This is a book that attempts to capture the post apocalypse romance and trials of young adults, but fails for a number of reasons. The biggest downfall is the sheer and utter stupidity of the main character Lexi.
Lexi continuously makes the worst decisions possible, needs to be saved, and then repeats those decisions over and over again. The other characters seem to have zero personality. If you can get past one of the dumbest characters in fiction, you can look forward to a somewhat poorly edited story with questionable pacing and plot. This story was as put together and thought out as the last season of Game of Thrones.
Clearly no outline was written- no beginning, middle, or end and no real motivation behind the antagonists from the start. By chapter 20, I still had no clue what any of the factions’ motivations were. There is no plot movement aside from "Let’s go to the city! Okay we are here now, oh there are bad guys, let's go underground!" The descriptions are extremely overdone and childish. Even the ending was lackluster and achieved nothing. There’s a small hint of a possible plot for a second book but nothing so amazing where I would desire to read the next one. I usually enjoy post apocalyptic stories and things similar to The Hunger Games but this fell short in so many different ways. I cannot recommend this book.
Lexi continuously makes the worst decisions possible, needs to be saved, and then repeats those decisions over and over again. The other characters seem to have zero personality. If you can get past one of the dumbest characters in fiction, you can look forward to a somewhat poorly edited story with questionable pacing and plot. This story was as put together and thought out as the last season of Game of Thrones.
Clearly no outline was written- no beginning, middle, or end and no real motivation behind the antagonists from the start. By chapter 20, I still had no clue what any of the factions’ motivations were. There is no plot movement aside from "Let’s go to the city! Okay we are here now, oh there are bad guys, let's go underground!" The descriptions are extremely overdone and childish. Even the ending was lackluster and achieved nothing. There’s a small hint of a possible plot for a second book but nothing so amazing where I would desire to read the next one. I usually enjoy post apocalyptic stories and things similar to The Hunger Games but this fell short in so many different ways. I cannot recommend this book.
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