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The Devil Particle #1
The Devil Particle
You won’t want to ride an elevator ever again.
A skyscraper filled with deception. A troubled teen seeking redemption. Will his race to the top become a fatal dilemma?
Paul Salvage longs to prove himself. So, the loyal seventeen-year-old is thrilled when he’s selected to compete in the trials to determine who is worthy enough to save society by accepting all of humanity’s evil. But when his brother is murdered, the heroic teenager gives up his dream to comfort his grieving father.
Persuaded not to drop out by a powerful family friend, Paul sets aside his own feelings and joins the group of fifty teens chosen to battle to the top of a tower filled with tests and traps. But as he grapples with one horrible choice after another, the haunted young man fears he isn’t noble enough to be the hero who will rescue everyone on Earth.
Can Paul escape the endless doubts and dangers to climb his way to victory?
Think Hunger Games meets Divergent.
A skyscraper filled with deception. A troubled teen seeking redemption. Will his race to the top become a fatal dilemma?
Paul Salvage longs to prove himself. So, the loyal seventeen-year-old is thrilled when he’s selected to compete in the trials to determine who is worthy enough to save society by accepting all of humanity’s evil. But when his brother is murdered, the heroic teenager gives up his dream to comfort his grieving father.
Persuaded not to drop out by a powerful family friend, Paul sets aside his own feelings and joins the group of fifty teens chosen to battle to the top of a tower filled with tests and traps. But as he grapples with one horrible choice after another, the haunted young man fears he isn’t noble enough to be the hero who will rescue everyone on Earth.
Can Paul escape the endless doubts and dangers to climb his way to victory?
Think Hunger Games meets Divergent.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2023
14 people are currently reading
1259 people want to read
About the author
Kristin A. Oakley
5 books40 followersYears ago, Kristin A. Oakley wrote “The Bomb,” a flash fiction piece about a character named Paul. At the time, she was also working on the third book in the award-winning Leo Townsend series, but Paul couldn’t be ignored, so Leo had to wait. That 900-word story turned into The Devil Particle Series.
Kristin’s young adult dystopian series, The Devil Particle, is a Kirkus Review Recommended Read and has received 5-star reviews from both Readers’ Favorite and Reader Views. The second book in the series, The Vessel, has also received a 5-star review from Readers’ Favorite. The Runner, book three in the series, will be released in 2024.
In addition to creating Paul and Leo’s stories, Kristin reviews books and writes about being a novelist in her bi-monthly newsletter, available at kristinoakley.net. She lives in the Milwaukee area and likes to hang out in coffee shops, writing characters into impossible situations.
Kristin’s young adult dystopian series, The Devil Particle, is a Kirkus Review Recommended Read and has received 5-star reviews from both Readers’ Favorite and Reader Views. The second book in the series, The Vessel, has also received a 5-star review from Readers’ Favorite. The Runner, book three in the series, will be released in 2024.
In addition to creating Paul and Leo’s stories, Kristin reviews books and writes about being a novelist in her bi-monthly newsletter, available at kristinoakley.net. She lives in the Milwaukee area and likes to hang out in coffee shops, writing characters into impossible situations.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 7, 2023
Hello everyone, I am Mr. C Reviewer, and today we will discuss the book "The Devil Particle." This novel is the first instalment in "The Devil Particle Series." It was my first encounter with Kristin A. Oakley's work, and after reading this story, I am excited to explore more of her books in the future. I would like to express my gratitude to NetGalley for providing a copy of "The Devil Particle" in exchange for an honest review. In April 2023, I had the pleasure of reading this captivating book, spending almost an entire day immersed in its pages. "The Devil Particle" is set to be published on June 6th this year. The book, narrated in first person from Paul's perspective, consists of 34 chapters.
-I feel like the book had a good display of character and place detail, allowing us the readers to fully immerse ourselves in the story. I think that the author skilfully developed each character, providing readers with a deep understanding of their motivations and personalities. Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with how much the author allowed us to get to know each character within the story.
In my opinion, the pacing of the book started off slow, but as I progressed further into the story, I found myself becoming more engrossed and invested in the plot. I liked the unexpected turns and surprises that the book had in store. The gradual build-up of suspense and mystery kept me hooked until the very end.
The book presents a multitude of realistic events that highlight some of the flaws of its characters. I found the book's technological innovations captivating and feel like it added an extra layer of depth to the story. I appreciated the incorporation of humorous scenes within the dystopian narrative, as it provided a much-needed balance to the overall tone of the book.
Among the many captivating features of this book, I particularly appreciated the inclusion of a picture amidst the pages of symbols. I feel like having this visual aid not only added to the aesthetic appeal of the book but also facilitated a better comprehension of the scene being depicted, thereby heightening my reading experience.
-Upon completing this book, I am eagerly anticipating the reappearance of some beloved characters in the upcoming series. Paul and his companions left a lasting impression on me, and I am excited to witness their journey unfold further. Additionally, I would appreciate more opportunities to delve into the life of Paul's father in the subsequent books.
-To be honest I found the aspect that allowed us the reader to uncover a certain revelation towards the end of the book somewhat foreseeable. Nevertheless, I was still taken aback upon reading it. The first book in this series concludes with an exciting cliff-hanger that left me eagerly anticipating the release of the next instalment. I am thrilled to discover that the second book, titled 'The Vessel,' is set to be available later on this year in October. When this book is released, I will acquire a copy for myself. Considering the increasing popularity and accessibility of audiobooks, I do think that it is appropriate for this book to have an audio edition. I personally believe that adapting this series into a TV show would be a great idea, and I would undoubtedly watch it if that happens.
I rate each story I read out of 10, and for this one, I give it an 8.8. Remember this was what I thought about the book personally and I suggest that you give it a go for yourself.
-I feel like the book had a good display of character and place detail, allowing us the readers to fully immerse ourselves in the story. I think that the author skilfully developed each character, providing readers with a deep understanding of their motivations and personalities. Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with how much the author allowed us to get to know each character within the story.
In my opinion, the pacing of the book started off slow, but as I progressed further into the story, I found myself becoming more engrossed and invested in the plot. I liked the unexpected turns and surprises that the book had in store. The gradual build-up of suspense and mystery kept me hooked until the very end.
The book presents a multitude of realistic events that highlight some of the flaws of its characters. I found the book's technological innovations captivating and feel like it added an extra layer of depth to the story. I appreciated the incorporation of humorous scenes within the dystopian narrative, as it provided a much-needed balance to the overall tone of the book.
Among the many captivating features of this book, I particularly appreciated the inclusion of a picture amidst the pages of symbols. I feel like having this visual aid not only added to the aesthetic appeal of the book but also facilitated a better comprehension of the scene being depicted, thereby heightening my reading experience.
-Upon completing this book, I am eagerly anticipating the reappearance of some beloved characters in the upcoming series. Paul and his companions left a lasting impression on me, and I am excited to witness their journey unfold further. Additionally, I would appreciate more opportunities to delve into the life of Paul's father in the subsequent books.
-To be honest I found the aspect that allowed us the reader to uncover a certain revelation towards the end of the book somewhat foreseeable. Nevertheless, I was still taken aback upon reading it. The first book in this series concludes with an exciting cliff-hanger that left me eagerly anticipating the release of the next instalment. I am thrilled to discover that the second book, titled 'The Vessel,' is set to be available later on this year in October. When this book is released, I will acquire a copy for myself. Considering the increasing popularity and accessibility of audiobooks, I do think that it is appropriate for this book to have an audio edition. I personally believe that adapting this series into a TV show would be a great idea, and I would undoubtedly watch it if that happens.
I rate each story I read out of 10, and for this one, I give it an 8.8. Remember this was what I thought about the book personally and I suggest that you give it a go for yourself.
June 3, 2023
I got an early reviewer copy of this book. This was an amazing read! The plot moved forward beautifully, there was just the right amount of twists, and the whole story was splendid! There were no formatting or grammar mistakes at all. I can’t wait for the sequel, even though this one isn’t even released yet. Amazing work!
January 28, 2024
In Kristina A. Oakley's- The Devil Particle- readers find themselves presented with a dystopian world in which scientists have discovered the evil in humans, which they call the devil particle- and a way in which to remove it. The problem becomes the waste from this particle- that all those "devil particles" need a storage spot-
Originally, a place called First Ironside had been chosen to be the storage spot- an undisclosed bunker in the Qais Desert. This was "supposed" to be an impenetrable bunker but despite this- the devil particles made their way out and back into the environment.
The damage from the loose devil particles was terrible- and President Cicero had to pay off the countries surrounding the desert bunker. And though scientists found that the bunkers did work- antagonists had blown through them, which released them all into the air. This "angered" the devil particles and they in turn- angered those humans when they made their way back into bodies- reinfecting humans - once again inside bodies that had hoped to be rid of them.
And now the government searches for a different vessel for the devil particles. This will be a vessel to carry all the world's evil- and now they want a human- one person who will hold all the devil particles inside him or herself- carry them for all of humanity.
Because of this need, there have been people training to be this carrier for a long time- doing daily altruistic acts, remarkable people (when compared to others) "in their scope and number"- living as moral "do-gooders". Asher and Paul Salvage are two of these such people- Asher being so good that he even saved the President from imminent death by fire.
The qualifications to become this vessel are fierce and the government must invite you to the Vessel Trials- where they will not only "testify to the fact that goodness is "ingrained" within oneself and that it "appears to come naturally". They must then compete against others like them- to be the winner, the chosen vessel- to carry all of humanity's evil- the devil particles.
But when Paul wakes up one morning at the bottom of the stairs, bloody, he doesn't remember the night before or how he ended up wounded- and his brother Asher is nowhere to be found. Several days later when Asher's body is found, no one knows what happened- even Paul- only that a guard Asher and Paul had problems with is found dead in the river next to him. No one has any idea what happened.
Because Asher is gone and Paul is the only support his father has left alive- he thinks of staying with his father and declines to compete to become the Vessel for the devil particle. But when President Cicero calls and begs him to participate in the Vessel Trials, he decides to go on with the competition, not only to honor his dead brother but to be the winner-
because of his strong need to become this vessel- the human that carries all the world's evil.
No one has been told what happens next- after you win the right to become the vessel for all humanity's evil- after you win. There is speculation, of course- and Paul's girlfriend has some ideas of her own- that the vessel may be locked up, away from the rest of the world. Since her parents were the scientists, after all, that found the devil particle- the root of evil in all human beings and a way to remove it- that they are no longer alive
speaks volumes to the girl (and probably should to others, too).
Even though Paul eventually decides to compete, no one has solved the mystery of what happened to his brother Asher. And, for all that matters, Paul has never spoken of where he found himself the morning that Asher disappeared. He has never questioned (even to himself) how he woke up, bloodied, why he woke up this way- that morning- not in bed like he should have been. And that all this may have had something to do with his brother's disappearance- none of these oddities from that morning ever connect with his brother's death.
So when Paul goes to compete to be the vessel for all human evil- what will happen? Will he find out more about himself, more about what happened to Paul? Could he know something about his brother's disappearance and/ or death- that he had forgotten when he woke the next morning bloodied?
And what will the trials be like to become the vessel for all human evil- what trials will Paul face- personally? In the end, will the vessel trials help Paul to become a better person than he is, or will they help him face reality, to see that no matter how hard he tries to be a good person, there is evil in him too- and a lot of it? Could Paul even have so much evil inside him that being the vessel for all human evil, be impossible- will the Vessel Trials only show that one human being could never hold all the evil in the world?
Kristin A. Oakley brings readers The Devil Particle- a book that I found entertaining, adventurous, and with a depth that you turn over in your mind and think on- issues apparent in the story that can teach us lessons about our world- and our own life in that world-
This is something I love- when books make me think- questions like- is one human being capable of being that good of a person- as to contain all human evil- and, if a human being was presented with all the acts that one could do when immersed in evil- has to contain all that- would they even want to? And if they did- what would they become? What is the ultimate outcome of handling and containing all that evil- on a daily basis?
Oakley gives readers much to ponder over with the first of her series and, as I move on to the second book- which is newly released- I wonder where the story will go and am very excited to see what happens next-
Happy Reading!
Originally, a place called First Ironside had been chosen to be the storage spot- an undisclosed bunker in the Qais Desert. This was "supposed" to be an impenetrable bunker but despite this- the devil particles made their way out and back into the environment.
The damage from the loose devil particles was terrible- and President Cicero had to pay off the countries surrounding the desert bunker. And though scientists found that the bunkers did work- antagonists had blown through them, which released them all into the air. This "angered" the devil particles and they in turn- angered those humans when they made their way back into bodies- reinfecting humans - once again inside bodies that had hoped to be rid of them.
And now the government searches for a different vessel for the devil particles. This will be a vessel to carry all the world's evil- and now they want a human- one person who will hold all the devil particles inside him or herself- carry them for all of humanity.
Because of this need, there have been people training to be this carrier for a long time- doing daily altruistic acts, remarkable people (when compared to others) "in their scope and number"- living as moral "do-gooders". Asher and Paul Salvage are two of these such people- Asher being so good that he even saved the President from imminent death by fire.
The qualifications to become this vessel are fierce and the government must invite you to the Vessel Trials- where they will not only "testify to the fact that goodness is "ingrained" within oneself and that it "appears to come naturally". They must then compete against others like them- to be the winner, the chosen vessel- to carry all of humanity's evil- the devil particles.
But when Paul wakes up one morning at the bottom of the stairs, bloody, he doesn't remember the night before or how he ended up wounded- and his brother Asher is nowhere to be found. Several days later when Asher's body is found, no one knows what happened- even Paul- only that a guard Asher and Paul had problems with is found dead in the river next to him. No one has any idea what happened.
Because Asher is gone and Paul is the only support his father has left alive- he thinks of staying with his father and declines to compete to become the Vessel for the devil particle. But when President Cicero calls and begs him to participate in the Vessel Trials, he decides to go on with the competition, not only to honor his dead brother but to be the winner-
because of his strong need to become this vessel- the human that carries all the world's evil.
No one has been told what happens next- after you win the right to become the vessel for all humanity's evil- after you win. There is speculation, of course- and Paul's girlfriend has some ideas of her own- that the vessel may be locked up, away from the rest of the world. Since her parents were the scientists, after all, that found the devil particle- the root of evil in all human beings and a way to remove it- that they are no longer alive
speaks volumes to the girl (and probably should to others, too).
Even though Paul eventually decides to compete, no one has solved the mystery of what happened to his brother Asher. And, for all that matters, Paul has never spoken of where he found himself the morning that Asher disappeared. He has never questioned (even to himself) how he woke up, bloodied, why he woke up this way- that morning- not in bed like he should have been. And that all this may have had something to do with his brother's disappearance- none of these oddities from that morning ever connect with his brother's death.
So when Paul goes to compete to be the vessel for all human evil- what will happen? Will he find out more about himself, more about what happened to Paul? Could he know something about his brother's disappearance and/ or death- that he had forgotten when he woke the next morning bloodied?
And what will the trials be like to become the vessel for all human evil- what trials will Paul face- personally? In the end, will the vessel trials help Paul to become a better person than he is, or will they help him face reality, to see that no matter how hard he tries to be a good person, there is evil in him too- and a lot of it? Could Paul even have so much evil inside him that being the vessel for all human evil, be impossible- will the Vessel Trials only show that one human being could never hold all the evil in the world?
Kristin A. Oakley brings readers The Devil Particle- a book that I found entertaining, adventurous, and with a depth that you turn over in your mind and think on- issues apparent in the story that can teach us lessons about our world- and our own life in that world-
This is something I love- when books make me think- questions like- is one human being capable of being that good of a person- as to contain all human evil- and, if a human being was presented with all the acts that one could do when immersed in evil- has to contain all that- would they even want to? And if they did- what would they become? What is the ultimate outcome of handling and containing all that evil- on a daily basis?
Oakley gives readers much to ponder over with the first of her series and, as I move on to the second book- which is newly released- I wonder where the story will go and am very excited to see what happens next-
Happy Reading!
August 29, 2023
“The Devil Particle” by Kristin A. Oakley is a fast-paced dystopian thriller that follows teenager Paul Salvage as he navigates the life and death challenges required to become the chosen vessel that will harness the world’s evil and save humanity from extinction. Over twenty wars currently ravage the landscape worldwide. It is the widespread senseless acts of violence, murder, and cruelty that pushes a group of fifty well-meaning yet naive seventeen-year-olds to compete for the prestigious honor of becoming the chosen one.
Scientists have discovered the agoniston particle in human DNA responsible for evil thoughts and actions and a way to extract it. They believe one righteously pure human with a solid core of goodness can become a vessel strong enough to resist temptation, avoid manipulation, and contain the world’s evil. Yet, no one considers what effect that much evil will have on a human’s soul, sanity, or life.
With little information on the challenges ahead or the severity of failing the tests, Paul and a handful of friends embark on a life-and-death battle to survive and escape the labyrinth of mind games and physical competitions that define the vessel trials. Quickly, the contestants discover the competition will push them to their breaking point and beyond. Their lives are on the line as they navigate harrowing situations, face their fears, or die. Their only choice is to keep moving, try and make it to the 52nd floor of the highrise test center unscathed, and survive.
Author Kristin A. Oakley’s “The Devil Particle” is a heart-pounding adventure that immerses the reader into a world of despair and desperation. Ms. Oakley’s descriptive writing style invites the reader to build a rapport, pick their favorite contestant and be wary of others. Challenging tests pushed the teens to their limits, leaving my eyes wide open as I held my breath while heart-wrenching scenarios came to life. Morally right and wrong choices come into play with no clear answers, keeping the challenges thought-provoking. The reader will remain on their toes while Oakley sets the stage for multiple twists and turns, then a cliffhanger that leaves you in shock and anxious for the next installment in the series.
Scientists have discovered the agoniston particle in human DNA responsible for evil thoughts and actions and a way to extract it. They believe one righteously pure human with a solid core of goodness can become a vessel strong enough to resist temptation, avoid manipulation, and contain the world’s evil. Yet, no one considers what effect that much evil will have on a human’s soul, sanity, or life.
With little information on the challenges ahead or the severity of failing the tests, Paul and a handful of friends embark on a life-and-death battle to survive and escape the labyrinth of mind games and physical competitions that define the vessel trials. Quickly, the contestants discover the competition will push them to their breaking point and beyond. Their lives are on the line as they navigate harrowing situations, face their fears, or die. Their only choice is to keep moving, try and make it to the 52nd floor of the highrise test center unscathed, and survive.
Author Kristin A. Oakley’s “The Devil Particle” is a heart-pounding adventure that immerses the reader into a world of despair and desperation. Ms. Oakley’s descriptive writing style invites the reader to build a rapport, pick their favorite contestant and be wary of others. Challenging tests pushed the teens to their limits, leaving my eyes wide open as I held my breath while heart-wrenching scenarios came to life. Morally right and wrong choices come into play with no clear answers, keeping the challenges thought-provoking. The reader will remain on their toes while Oakley sets the stage for multiple twists and turns, then a cliffhanger that leaves you in shock and anxious for the next installment in the series.
July 3, 2023
What if evil is a physical particle that can be removed from people and tranferred elsewhere? That’s the premise of Kristin Oakley’s The Devil Particle, the first in a promised series of four novels for teen and young adult readers.
Paul Salvage vies for the honor of being the first-ever human Vessel for all the world’s evil in a competition among teens, despite the opposition of his father and competition from his older brother, Asher, and his girlfriend, Jaelyn. Nobody knows what absorbing all the world’s devil particles will do to the lucky recipient—but President Cicero and top scientists assure contestants that the winner will be up to the task. Becoming the Vessel to contain evil is a coveted goal for idealistic teens in a world more burdened by war, crime, and social decay than ever before.
The first-person narration from Paul’s viewpoint is crisp and fast-paced. Many conflicts and paradoxes unfold as Paul and his competitors strive to master physical challenges and mind games devised by their society’s power elite. Throughout the commpetition, Paul faces unsettling insights on the burden he seeks to undertake.
The Devil Particle is a fast read. By the end, my only question was: What happens next? That’s to be revealed in the next book, The Vessel, coming soon.
Paul Salvage vies for the honor of being the first-ever human Vessel for all the world’s evil in a competition among teens, despite the opposition of his father and competition from his older brother, Asher, and his girlfriend, Jaelyn. Nobody knows what absorbing all the world’s devil particles will do to the lucky recipient—but President Cicero and top scientists assure contestants that the winner will be up to the task. Becoming the Vessel to contain evil is a coveted goal for idealistic teens in a world more burdened by war, crime, and social decay than ever before.
The first-person narration from Paul’s viewpoint is crisp and fast-paced. Many conflicts and paradoxes unfold as Paul and his competitors strive to master physical challenges and mind games devised by their society’s power elite. Throughout the commpetition, Paul faces unsettling insights on the burden he seeks to undertake.
The Devil Particle is a fast read. By the end, my only question was: What happens next? That’s to be revealed in the next book, The Vessel, coming soon.
June 6, 2023
This book is a bit of a slow burn, but stick with it.
It is set in a dystopian world where war rages and crime is so high that it is considered dangerous to walk home from work at 1pm. Scientists have not only discovered the Devil Particle, which is responsible for all evil and exists in every human, but how to extract it from every person in the world. These particles must be stored in a human vessel to keep them contained and to save the world from destruction.
The story follows Paul, Asher, Jaelyn and Gaige who compete with other hand picked candidates for the honour of being the human Vessel. During which, they will be tested in a series of brutal ways. The trials themselves are really original, well thought out and parts will rip your heart out.
This is aimed towards the Teens and YA audience. It is filled with emotion and suspense and the whole concept is so original, a refreshing break from the norm.
It is filled with various scenarios relating to moral values and opens up some very interesting discussion points. I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
Think the crystal maze meets the hunger games only a thousand times better!
It is set in a dystopian world where war rages and crime is so high that it is considered dangerous to walk home from work at 1pm. Scientists have not only discovered the Devil Particle, which is responsible for all evil and exists in every human, but how to extract it from every person in the world. These particles must be stored in a human vessel to keep them contained and to save the world from destruction.
The story follows Paul, Asher, Jaelyn and Gaige who compete with other hand picked candidates for the honour of being the human Vessel. During which, they will be tested in a series of brutal ways. The trials themselves are really original, well thought out and parts will rip your heart out.
This is aimed towards the Teens and YA audience. It is filled with emotion and suspense and the whole concept is so original, a refreshing break from the norm.
It is filled with various scenarios relating to moral values and opens up some very interesting discussion points. I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
Think the crystal maze meets the hunger games only a thousand times better!
December 30, 2023
I read this book as an ARC reader, and it is a roller coaster. Vivid descriptions and fast action put you in the scene with characters that are well-defined (especially impressive given the size of the cast) and super easy to get attached to. The pace really clips along (sometimes just a little too fast) through most of the book, and the challenges have a surprisingly horror-y feel to them at times, often pulling on those emotional strings. Spending a little more time on certain aspects of the world or characters would have been nice (because I loved them both so much) and some character exits felt a little sudden or plot device-y, but overall, this is a thrill ride with a really fun premise, extremely vivid imagery, and characters that are fun to tag along with for the journey. As a side note, I also liked that the book started out with a brief philosophical chat about the issue as that really helped put some guardrails on the concept--what the particles can and can't do, how people of faith/others might approach the potential encroachment on free will and good and evil, etc.
August 27, 2023
An interesting dystopian thriller. In The Devil Particle, the world is constantly at war. Protagonist Paul, his brother Asher, his girlfriend Jaelyn, and Asher's best friend Gaige are some of the world's best and brightest teenagers, and as such, hope to be chosen to compete in the Vessel Trials. The winner will have the honor of becoming a vessel for all the world's evil, sacrificing one for the many. The trial will test every facet of their being, and only the best will win.
I was immediately drawn in by the premise of this novel. If scientists truly did discover a means of extracting "evil", something like this definitely could happen. I enjoyed following Paul throughout the story, and watching the moral dilemmas that each contestant was put through. The story is both thrilling and emotional. The ending sets up for a sequel, which I will eagerly await.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I was immediately drawn in by the premise of this novel. If scientists truly did discover a means of extracting "evil", something like this definitely could happen. I enjoyed following Paul throughout the story, and watching the moral dilemmas that each contestant was put through. The story is both thrilling and emotional. The ending sets up for a sequel, which I will eagerly await.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 29, 2024
Five stars for the high-concept plot alone. Very inventive and thought provoking. What if all the evil in the world could be captured and isolated into one "outstanding" human who would keep it suppressed—seemingly forever?
That said, Oakley wrote a compelling narrative to explore that idea and created believable characters who struggled to achieve the goal of becoming the vessel for the Devil Particle. Paul is a likeable, intriguing character with just enough baggage to prove he's not any sort of messiah, just a young man with high ideals and morals who wants to end the man-made evil that's plagued Earth almost since homo sapiens first appeared.
Oakley put in a few nice twists at the end. One I saw coming because she might have foreshadowed it a little too much. The second was a definite surprise. Both set up the sequel quite well.
I'm not a regular reader of YA dystopian fiction, but I imagine her target audience will go for this in a big way.
That said, Oakley wrote a compelling narrative to explore that idea and created believable characters who struggled to achieve the goal of becoming the vessel for the Devil Particle. Paul is a likeable, intriguing character with just enough baggage to prove he's not any sort of messiah, just a young man with high ideals and morals who wants to end the man-made evil that's plagued Earth almost since homo sapiens first appeared.
Oakley put in a few nice twists at the end. One I saw coming because she might have foreshadowed it a little too much. The second was a definite surprise. Both set up the sequel quite well.
I'm not a regular reader of YA dystopian fiction, but I imagine her target audience will go for this in a big way.
March 27, 2024
This Young Adult adventure novel packs exciting action as teens struggle to survive a succession of scary escape rooms in a high-rise building. You won’t want to get on an elevator again after reading this book. The survivor of this game will get to be the official “vessel” implanted with the world’s evil. You have to buy the premise that special planes scoop up evil particles in the air and then scientists reduce evil to something that can be injected into a human—an eager teenager in this case. Don’t ask why this evil isn’t just shipped off to another galaxy inside some wretched beast, human or otherwise. This story is entertaining with moral choices at every turn and because of the string of discoveries that Paul Salvage, 17, makes about his own family as the tests move to the climax. A fun debut and the beginning of a series that teens should enjoy. Romance is limited to the occasional hug and dream of a kiss.
June 29, 2023
I recently finished reading "The Devil Particle" by Kristin A. Oakley. I have only one word for it - amazing. The plot, the characters the storytelling everything was fantastic. The book was an absolute page-turner - I remained glued to it until I got to the end. The chemistry between some characters is beautiful - and the trials were designed very thoughtfully. One can see the effort the author has put into this book to make the facts believable.
The style of narrative was simple - yet very engaging. One understands the character of Paul easily. It emphasizes the right places and doesn't drag the story. Overall, in my opinion, if someone is a fan of adventure and thrill, they should give it a go. The only thing I regret is that I read it before all the parts came out. Now it is difficult to wait for the next book!
The style of narrative was simple - yet very engaging. One understands the character of Paul easily. It emphasizes the right places and doesn't drag the story. Overall, in my opinion, if someone is a fan of adventure and thrill, they should give it a go. The only thing I regret is that I read it before all the parts came out. Now it is difficult to wait for the next book!
June 30, 2023
This book is tricky to review. I enjoyed reading it but struggled with the logic of decisions made by any (all?) of the participants in the trials, as they did not seem to fit the narrative of the book. This jarring of motivation against plot kept knocking me out of the story.
I felt that the introduction to the book was strong and that the trial’s themes were well thought out. I enjoyed the world building too.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series as I’m guessing the issues that beset the first won’t exist now that we have a Vessel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I felt that the introduction to the book was strong and that the trial’s themes were well thought out. I enjoyed the world building too.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series as I’m guessing the issues that beset the first won’t exist now that we have a Vessel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2023
"The Devil Particle" is a great start to a dystopian series for young adults. It's fast-paced, suspenseful and raises many questions about morals and ethics. Some things felt too cliché for my taste, went too easily or clearly just happened to move the plot forward but those instances were few and far between enough to not ruin the reading experience for me. I still really enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward to starting the next one right away.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2025
The Devil Particle is an exciting dystopian novel which tells the story of a competition to become “the vessel,” — the human who will take on all of the evil in the World. It is a fast paced roller coaster ride of a novel. If you enjoyed The Hunger Games and Divergent, you will want to read this novel. I enjoyed reading it and am interested to see where it goes in future installments.
Thanks to the author/publisher for gifting this book through a Goodreads giveaway. I have given an honest opinion of the book.
Thanks to the author/publisher for gifting this book through a Goodreads giveaway. I have given an honest opinion of the book.
September 5, 2024
Quick and Suspensful Read
Definitely reminds me of Hunger Games, a dystopian future setting where young men and women compete to become a vessel for all of the evil in the world. It was a fast paced thriller that kept me engaged until the end. The ending was disappointing though which is why I didn’t give it 5 stars. Will there potentially be a sequel I hope!? It left me hanging and wanting more!
Definitely reminds me of Hunger Games, a dystopian future setting where young men and women compete to become a vessel for all of the evil in the world. It was a fast paced thriller that kept me engaged until the end. The ending was disappointing though which is why I didn’t give it 5 stars. Will there potentially be a sequel I hope!? It left me hanging and wanting more!
June 6, 2023
Had a lot of fun with The Devil Particle. The characters are engaging and realistic, the suspense is palpable and the stakes don’t get much higher than in this dystopian thriller.
Kristen did an excellent job grabbing and holding my attention. Would recommend this to adults and strongly recommend to YA audiences interested in societal concerns and deep moral dilemmas.
Kristen did an excellent job grabbing and holding my attention. Would recommend this to adults and strongly recommend to YA audiences interested in societal concerns and deep moral dilemmas.
December 5, 2023
I got this ebook in a giveaway and I'm so glad I did. The story had me on the edge of my seat the entire time wondering what each Trial would be and what all the characters would be facing next.
I think the author did a great job building a tense atmosphere and the desire for answers. Highly recommend!
I think the author did a great job building a tense atmosphere and the desire for answers. Highly recommend!
June 15, 2023
Wildly imaginative! Wonderful characters. Interesting plot. Vivid descriptions. Simply a GREAT read!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
October 11, 2025
This is a great read! Hunger Games/Divergent genre. I am in awe of authors who can create worlds and help me visualize them. Highly recommend!
November 14, 2025
Great premise. Love the characters and the idea that the salvation of the world rests in the altruism and sacrifice of a young person. Can’t wait to see where it goes.
January 2, 2026
Going into this book, I was tentatively excited. While a fascinating premise can lead to a great story, without good execution the book will fall apart. Kristin A. Oakley more than delivered. The Devil Particle portrays the main character, Paul, working through a set of challenges named the Vessel Trials. The prize? To be the vessel of all the evil in the world. This book grabs you from page one and never lets go. Throughout, Paul is faced with a series of moral dilemmas, physical challenges, and self-reflection. We learn about who Paul and all the other contestants are at their core, and what they do when presented with seemingly insurmountable challenges.
What makes this book wonderful is how each contestant is willing to sacrifice themselves in order to save the world. Everyone is fighting to prove that they are the kindest and most amazing out of the bunch. The underlying selflessness that permeates throughout lies in stark contrast to the selfish actions of each character. While each wants to save everyone else, they’re willing to do anything to do so. As we see each character navigate their fears and insecurities, we get to grow and mature along with the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What makes this book wonderful is how each contestant is willing to sacrifice themselves in order to save the world. Everyone is fighting to prove that they are the kindest and most amazing out of the bunch. The underlying selflessness that permeates throughout lies in stark contrast to the selfish actions of each character. While each wants to save everyone else, they’re willing to do anything to do so. As we see each character navigate their fears and insecurities, we get to grow and mature along with the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2023
A 17-year-old boy living in a post-apocalyptic world competes to save the world from itself by becoming the single vessel containing all the world’s evil.
Whew, that’s some heavy stuff, isn’t it? And who would want that? It turns out there are plenty of altruistic, caring youth who vie for the chance to change the world, to better the planet, to save humanity. But first the candidates must compete in The Trials, with its cruel and deadly challenges. There’s plenty to chew on in this book. Who’s to blame for evil — and evil acts? How can we as a society and world curtail it? Would we be willing to sacrifice one innocent for all people when that innocent is someone we know and love? And are The Trials what they appear to be? Fans of THE HUNGER GAMES and a good race to the finish will enjoy sinking their teeth into THE DEVIL PARTICLE. Recommended.
Whew, that’s some heavy stuff, isn’t it? And who would want that? It turns out there are plenty of altruistic, caring youth who vie for the chance to change the world, to better the planet, to save humanity. But first the candidates must compete in The Trials, with its cruel and deadly challenges. There’s plenty to chew on in this book. Who’s to blame for evil — and evil acts? How can we as a society and world curtail it? Would we be willing to sacrifice one innocent for all people when that innocent is someone we know and love? And are The Trials what they appear to be? Fans of THE HUNGER GAMES and a good race to the finish will enjoy sinking their teeth into THE DEVIL PARTICLE. Recommended.
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