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Savage Run #1
Savage Run 2: Book 2 in the Savage Run series: Volume 2 by E. J. Squires
By Award-winning author E. J. In this action-packed, suspense-filled novel, E. J. Squires takes us through a wild ride that explores how far one would go to gain one’s freedom. With narrow escapes, heart-aching losses, and an unexpected romance, you are in for a read you won’t be able to put down.17-yr. old slave Laborer, Heidi Cruise, will do anything to escape a future of servitude to a master she will be powerless to—even disguise herself as a guy and register for the government funded “Savage Run,” a grueling, male-only, three-phase obstacle course program in which the survivors are granted their freedom. But the second she instigates her plan, things start to unravel and she quickly learns that not only are the obstacles dangerous—they’re deadly. Not only while fending for her life, one exhausting round after another, Heidi must keep her gender a secret and ward off other participants who are out to get her. Before long, Nicholas, an intriguing young registrar, discovers that Heidi is a girl. Nicholas has his own secrets, and being a rebel in his own right, he lets Heidi continue without revealing her gender. Soon, Heidi starts to develop feelings for Nicholas, but she’s terrified of exploring them; he is a Master, she a Laborer, and in this hierarchical society, one can never be too careful. However, with a sudden turn of events, everything is jeopardized, and Heidi is forced to choose between her own safety, her freedom, and the ones she loves.
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First published December 6, 2014
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About the author
E.J. Squires
10 books147 followersEvelyn J. Squires was born in Asker, Norway, the second of eight children. Her father, being an entrepreneur, moved the family back and forth from the US to Norway, ultimately settling in Utah in 1992. After high school Evelyn entered Brigham Young University to study Comparative Literature and Ballet among other things, and in 2007 she opened a ballet studio in Florida. Having a lifelong love of for reading, she has written poetry, lyrics and short stories. In 2012 she began writing as a new career and has never looked back.
Evelyn will gladly send you a complimentary ebook of any of her novels in exchange for an honest review. Please email request to: evelynsquires75@gmail.com
Evelyn will gladly send you a complimentary ebook of any of her novels in exchange for an honest review. Please email request to: evelynsquires75@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 14, 2016
There comes a time in every reviewers life when they have to decide between upholding their integrity or following their heart. I'm choosing to follow my beliefs and do what I think is right, even though it does make me feel like a massive poo. I want to say a huge thank you to E. J. Squires for sending me this novel in exchange for an honest review, and I tried so hard to like it, but I'm going to be honest - this was one of the most disappointing books I've read in a very long time.
'Savage Run' tells the story of Heidi, a Laborer in the lowest class in her society, destined to be ruled by a Master as soon as she turns sixteen. Heidi's best friend, Gemma, has been with her Master for nearly a year, and Heidi comes up with a plan to get her freedom - the Savage Run event. The Savage Run is a competition for teenage boys of the lower classes to participate in an obstacle course to become Masters, giving themselves economic stability and freedom for the rest of their lives. Because Heidi and Gemma are girls, they disguise themselves as males and get hold of fake IDs, desperate to compete for their only chance at freedom.
I thought the plot sounded so interesting, I jumped at the chance to review this novel. I love dystopian fiction, and for a novel to have something that sounds so out of the box and brand new is a massive surprise. But there were so many things wrong with this novel.
To start off at a basic level: there were 35 errors that I spotted throughout the novel, also known as an error every ten pages. It made it feel uncomfortable and disconnected, with fragmented sentences and random punctuation marks inserted into the manuscript over and over again. That's not including the commas that were added in or were missing, because once you start counting commas it gets to an insanely high number, but that means in actuality there were way more errors. I understand that for lesser known, indie authors the proofreading process is never going to be absolutely faultless, because paying for someone to proofread and edit your novel is quite costly, but this many errors shouldn't have just been able to slip under the radar unnoticed. Similarly, there were a lot of phrases that didn't make much grammatical sense, meaning that every page I was tripping over something, leaving me feeling beyond disappointed at how deeply it affected my enjoyment of the novel.
Read the rest of my review here!
'Savage Run' tells the story of Heidi, a Laborer in the lowest class in her society, destined to be ruled by a Master as soon as she turns sixteen. Heidi's best friend, Gemma, has been with her Master for nearly a year, and Heidi comes up with a plan to get her freedom - the Savage Run event. The Savage Run is a competition for teenage boys of the lower classes to participate in an obstacle course to become Masters, giving themselves economic stability and freedom for the rest of their lives. Because Heidi and Gemma are girls, they disguise themselves as males and get hold of fake IDs, desperate to compete for their only chance at freedom.
I thought the plot sounded so interesting, I jumped at the chance to review this novel. I love dystopian fiction, and for a novel to have something that sounds so out of the box and brand new is a massive surprise. But there were so many things wrong with this novel.
To start off at a basic level: there were 35 errors that I spotted throughout the novel, also known as an error every ten pages. It made it feel uncomfortable and disconnected, with fragmented sentences and random punctuation marks inserted into the manuscript over and over again. That's not including the commas that were added in or were missing, because once you start counting commas it gets to an insanely high number, but that means in actuality there were way more errors. I understand that for lesser known, indie authors the proofreading process is never going to be absolutely faultless, because paying for someone to proofread and edit your novel is quite costly, but this many errors shouldn't have just been able to slip under the radar unnoticed. Similarly, there were a lot of phrases that didn't make much grammatical sense, meaning that every page I was tripping over something, leaving me feeling beyond disappointed at how deeply it affected my enjoyment of the novel.
Read the rest of my review here!
July 22, 2017
This futuristic novel by EJ Squires had me thinking about three well-loved fierce heroines of our time - Hua Mulan (Ballad of Mulan) & Katniss Everdeen (Hunger Games) and Lisbeth Salander (Girl With Dragon Tattoo). I admit, at first I thought this was another Hunger Games in the making, but I was mistaken when I found myself immersed from the first chapter to the last.
Heidi Cruise is a laborer at the age of seventeen, and soon when she reaches 18, she's going to serve a Master. But Heidi doesn't want this kind of life while she's in Culmination. So she makes plans for her and her bestfriend Gemma, before she succumbs to a life of cruelty. When she sees Master Douglas maltreating her friend, she saves her from her Master and together they run for their lives. Heidi thinks of joining the Savage Run, an obstacle challenge program that enables young men to be free from slavery and live as Masters. So they cut her hair short and Heidi trades in her mother's locket to get all the pertinent documents needed in Savage Run. But things gets more complicated when Master Douglas pursues her and Gemma, which then ultimately leads to her friends demise. Now, Heidi has only two choices left - to push through with Savage Run or stay with her father until he sends her to a new Master.
Disguised as a boy named Joseph, Heidi finds assurance, faith and hope through Arthor, a childhood friend, and Nicholas & Mai, two registrars who know her secret. And then there's Johnny, a fellow contender who is cunning and pure evil in every sense of word.
I got really hooked with this story. Heidi 's complicated & perilous journey to become a Master is besieged with tortures, taunts, insults, harassment and death traps. I find lumps in my throat as the story progresses. The world Heidi lives and believes in is a far cry from the world we are living today. Author E.J. Squires had captivated me from start to finish, and in between the turns and twists. I couldn't wait until I get to the next book - the book that will further make Heidi the ultimate heroine that we are waiting for!
Heidi Cruise is a laborer at the age of seventeen, and soon when she reaches 18, she's going to serve a Master. But Heidi doesn't want this kind of life while she's in Culmination. So she makes plans for her and her bestfriend Gemma, before she succumbs to a life of cruelty. When she sees Master Douglas maltreating her friend, she saves her from her Master and together they run for their lives. Heidi thinks of joining the Savage Run, an obstacle challenge program that enables young men to be free from slavery and live as Masters. So they cut her hair short and Heidi trades in her mother's locket to get all the pertinent documents needed in Savage Run. But things gets more complicated when Master Douglas pursues her and Gemma, which then ultimately leads to her friends demise. Now, Heidi has only two choices left - to push through with Savage Run or stay with her father until he sends her to a new Master.
Disguised as a boy named Joseph, Heidi finds assurance, faith and hope through Arthor, a childhood friend, and Nicholas & Mai, two registrars who know her secret. And then there's Johnny, a fellow contender who is cunning and pure evil in every sense of word.
I got really hooked with this story. Heidi 's complicated & perilous journey to become a Master is besieged with tortures, taunts, insults, harassment and death traps. I find lumps in my throat as the story progresses. The world Heidi lives and believes in is a far cry from the world we are living today. Author E.J. Squires had captivated me from start to finish, and in between the turns and twists. I couldn't wait until I get to the next book - the book that will further make Heidi the ultimate heroine that we are waiting for!
December 16, 2015
Got a copy of this book to review from the author E.J Squires.
This book is about a girl named Heidi who lives in av class divided society where she is at the bottom. She does not want to have to live her entire life obeying and serving someone, so she decides to participate in a competition named Savage Run to try to win her freedom.
I love Heidi because she is such a strong character and she is fighting for herself. The world is so corupped and there is so much injustice. It is horrible to read about what happens to the people in this book, but the story is so interesting and addicting that you can’t put it down.
This book is so action packed and has a lot of drama, intrigues and plot twists! The writing is really good and you just have to keep reading.
This is one of the first book I read in 2015 and I can already say that I think it is going to be a favourite. I can not wait to read the next one! :D
This book is about a girl named Heidi who lives in av class divided society where she is at the bottom. She does not want to have to live her entire life obeying and serving someone, so she decides to participate in a competition named Savage Run to try to win her freedom.
I love Heidi because she is such a strong character and she is fighting for herself. The world is so corupped and there is so much injustice. It is horrible to read about what happens to the people in this book, but the story is so interesting and addicting that you can’t put it down.
This book is so action packed and has a lot of drama, intrigues and plot twists! The writing is really good and you just have to keep reading.
This is one of the first book I read in 2015 and I can already say that I think it is going to be a favourite. I can not wait to read the next one! :D
December 10, 2014
A page turner from start to finish!!
Savage Run possesses so many unique qualities it's hard to choose just one favorite!
A few of mine are: the heroine disguised as an underdog, the non-stop adrenaline rush describing the run itself, the intense relationships through out the journey as they unfold and develop - between familial twists, long-time friends, and romances both budding and long-term.
I couldn't put it down from the moment I started reading until reaching the final page. I can't wait to see what twists will be in store in the next installment!
Savage Run possesses so many unique qualities it's hard to choose just one favorite!
A few of mine are: the heroine disguised as an underdog, the non-stop adrenaline rush describing the run itself, the intense relationships through out the journey as they unfold and develop - between familial twists, long-time friends, and romances both budding and long-term.
I couldn't put it down from the moment I started reading until reaching the final page. I can't wait to see what twists will be in store in the next installment!
January 4, 2015
Disclaimer: I received this ebook for free from Story Cartel in exchange for an honest review.
First things first, the good:
Although Savage Run is concepted as a multibook storyline you can read it on its own without needing to continue with the others, there are some minor loose ends but by and far the story is self enclosed.
Savage Run can be mindless fun to read, and even though I personally struggled a bit with it for reasons I mention later on it is a fast read. I'd say if you go in expecting nothing more than a silly teen romance, not minding that the whole dystopia theme is just make-up and not bothering with questioning the logic of certain set ups, then it can be read as the literary equivalent to a popcorn movie - well, SyFy production more likely.
Savage Run starts off with a couple tightly written chapters outlining a harrowing future in which there's a class system firmly reestablished, consisting of Masters, Advisers and a slave laborer class among which women are treated as slave's slaves.
However, this brings us straight to the bad:
Given that this sort of class system, that issues like slave labor, that to millions of girls and women to have to live in a society where they can't escape slavery - getting handed down from "family" to "husband" - is a harsh reality, and added to that the gritty start of the novel including themes of sexual abuse, the to me unexpected turn taken a few chapters later going from a dark YA-rated setting to a light MG-rated one, grated on me the whole time I read the story.
The author never really raises the question of slavery and abuse above such a minimal level, treating it as such a negligible act, that I wondered why she bothered with including it at all. In the end, the ignorance with which the story treats such serious themes just felt aggravating to me.
Heidi is the most inconsistent character I encountered in a long time.
Born and raised a slave, with no hope to ever escape this life, you'd think that winning her freedom is what would be driving her through the Savage Run, but whenever beau Nicholas is around her she turns into a terrible cliché of a girl, who's obsessing over dresses and bodily appearance; freedom is becoming just this thing on the side which never seems as important as, say, being kissed.
Essentially Heidi's only problem with having to live as a slave seems sometimes to boil down to not being allowed to go clubbing and fall in love... in short she's described as a typical first world teenager that just so happens to lack money and therefore mulls over superficial luxury problems.
Don't stop to ask for logic.
Some of the obstacles are mind boggling ludicrous, and not just compared to from where the story started out; we are talking spaceships and mythical creatures here.
The whole set up of the nations and their situation is, well, equally ludicrous. Nothing we are told about the current world situation ever really adds up - maybe the author plans to explain this in further installments, but personally I feel that she just never thought that part through.
And there's hero Nicholas,
which brings us to the ugly:
(Further disclaimer: This part contains some spoilers for the first couple chapters)
Heidi practically immediately falls for beau Nicholas who acts as a recruiter in her village, and just so happens to be the president's son. And this president's son decides to play along with Heidi's charade after she's been found out, for no apparent reason at all. Worse yet, Nicholas is painted as openly opposing his fathers regime - in any real world dictatorship, the likes of which Newland is painted as being, he wouldn't life long enough to voice a "E tu, Brute".
What's worse, practically from the moment Nicholas appears in the story all thoughts of even trying to write a at least semi convincing dystopia seem to have fled from the authors mind.
Instead we get a sappy fairy tale like teen romance.
When Heidi tries to sign up for Savage Run disguised as a boy her cover is readily blown and you have to wonder, again, why did the author even bother?
The whole Heidi sneaks disguised as a guy in an all male event has again no real impact on the story. And again, seeing how we live in a world where in certain parts disguising themselves as boys poses a real threat to girls, should they be found out, the authors use of this topic feels incredibly insensitive.
I have to mention this again:
I have a huge problem with the way she includes and then refuses to address the topic of sexualized violence. This is shortly brought up in the first chapters after Heidi freed her best friend Gemma from an abusive Master who beats, drugs and rapes her - and it gets sort of hinted on throughout the novel - but never impacts the story in any meaningful way. It sits just there, mentioned in passing as a throwaway line. It's like saying, it was just rape, nothing to worry yourself about. Sorry, but my stance to using sexualized violence in a story is: If you don't want to go there, then don't go there.
Don't treat rape as a mere story trope!
It still gets a two star rating from me because as stated, it can and does at times work when read as a sort of popcorn entertainment. I however entered with much different expectations.
First things first, the good:
Although Savage Run is concepted as a multibook storyline you can read it on its own without needing to continue with the others, there are some minor loose ends but by and far the story is self enclosed.
Savage Run can be mindless fun to read, and even though I personally struggled a bit with it for reasons I mention later on it is a fast read. I'd say if you go in expecting nothing more than a silly teen romance, not minding that the whole dystopia theme is just make-up and not bothering with questioning the logic of certain set ups, then it can be read as the literary equivalent to a popcorn movie - well, SyFy production more likely.
Savage Run starts off with a couple tightly written chapters outlining a harrowing future in which there's a class system firmly reestablished, consisting of Masters, Advisers and a slave laborer class among which women are treated as slave's slaves.
However, this brings us straight to the bad:
Given that this sort of class system, that issues like slave labor, that to millions of girls and women to have to live in a society where they can't escape slavery - getting handed down from "family" to "husband" - is a harsh reality, and added to that the gritty start of the novel including themes of sexual abuse, the to me unexpected turn taken a few chapters later going from a dark YA-rated setting to a light MG-rated one, grated on me the whole time I read the story.
The author never really raises the question of slavery and abuse above such a minimal level, treating it as such a negligible act, that I wondered why she bothered with including it at all. In the end, the ignorance with which the story treats such serious themes just felt aggravating to me.
Heidi is the most inconsistent character I encountered in a long time.
Born and raised a slave, with no hope to ever escape this life, you'd think that winning her freedom is what would be driving her through the Savage Run, but whenever beau Nicholas is around her she turns into a terrible cliché of a girl, who's obsessing over dresses and bodily appearance; freedom is becoming just this thing on the side which never seems as important as, say, being kissed.
Essentially Heidi's only problem with having to live as a slave seems sometimes to boil down to not being allowed to go clubbing and fall in love... in short she's described as a typical first world teenager that just so happens to lack money and therefore mulls over superficial luxury problems.
Don't stop to ask for logic.
Some of the obstacles are mind boggling ludicrous, and not just compared to from where the story started out; we are talking spaceships and mythical creatures here.
The whole set up of the nations and their situation is, well, equally ludicrous. Nothing we are told about the current world situation ever really adds up - maybe the author plans to explain this in further installments, but personally I feel that she just never thought that part through.
And there's hero Nicholas,
which brings us to the ugly:
(Further disclaimer: This part contains some spoilers for the first couple chapters)
Heidi practically immediately falls for beau Nicholas who acts as a recruiter in her village, and just so happens to be the president's son. And this president's son decides to play along with Heidi's charade after she's been found out, for no apparent reason at all. Worse yet, Nicholas is painted as openly opposing his fathers regime - in any real world dictatorship, the likes of which Newland is painted as being, he wouldn't life long enough to voice a "E tu, Brute".
What's worse, practically from the moment Nicholas appears in the story all thoughts of even trying to write a at least semi convincing dystopia seem to have fled from the authors mind.
Instead we get a sappy fairy tale like teen romance.
When Heidi tries to sign up for Savage Run disguised as a boy her cover is readily blown and you have to wonder, again, why did the author even bother?
The whole Heidi sneaks disguised as a guy in an all male event has again no real impact on the story. And again, seeing how we live in a world where in certain parts disguising themselves as boys poses a real threat to girls, should they be found out, the authors use of this topic feels incredibly insensitive.
I have to mention this again:
I have a huge problem with the way she includes and then refuses to address the topic of sexualized violence. This is shortly brought up in the first chapters after Heidi freed her best friend Gemma from an abusive Master who beats, drugs and rapes her - and it gets sort of hinted on throughout the novel - but never impacts the story in any meaningful way. It sits just there, mentioned in passing as a throwaway line. It's like saying, it was just rape, nothing to worry yourself about. Sorry, but my stance to using sexualized violence in a story is: If you don't want to go there, then don't go there.
Don't treat rape as a mere story trope!
It still gets a two star rating from me because as stated, it can and does at times work when read as a sort of popcorn entertainment. I however entered with much different expectations.
June 10, 2015
★★★★★
Review originally posted on my blog here
SPOILER FREE
Summary:
Heidi is a 17 year old Laborer, living in Dystopia America. Wanting to escape from her inevitable future of living a life of servitude to an abusive Master, she assumes the identity of a young boy and enters the Savage Run; a range of obstacle courses set to kill where thousands of boys enter in the hopes of surviving and winning freedom.
Witnessing the murder of her best friend, and her gender being discovered before she enters by the oppressive ruler's son, Heidi realises the gravity of her quest. But she manages to trust him after he indicates traits of rebellion about the whole system, and an unexpected friendship blossoms.
Heidi must battle against obstacles set to kill men, nevermind an undernourished female, and other participants that want to beat her. Heidi finds that no suffering she has endured up to now, has prepared her for her fight for freedom.
My Thoughts:
I took a break from YA Romance novels and wooooooow! This reminded me why I love Dystopian stories. Although similar to The Hunger Games, it still gripped my attention and was such a good read- completed in the one day!
Characters: Heidi was a great heroine, probably one of my favourites. She's persevered through so many obstacles already in life and still has the courage to attempt to save her friend and risk her life against the odds to make one last fight for freedom. Poor Gemma was clearly run down from her time serving Master Douglas and resigned to her bleak future, exactly what one would imagine the mind would reduce to. Nicholas...ahhhhh. I'd love a side story from his perspective growing up in this new world, living under his father's rule whilst despising it. I loved his subtle actions to help Heidi and give her some tips, without it being too much or over-powering to believe he'd help her.
Setting: Most futuristic settings written about are depressing and negative, hence it's a dystopian world. I loved how this one was set in America with Europe and Asia as one in the East, as it made it easier to visualise on Earth rather than some fictional land. The classes were well distinguished and interesting to have sectors even within one class. The bits of history all included to give the reader a better concept of how the world became what it is really helped make it believable and realistic.
Plot: Apart from being furiously upset that the book ended - aaaaagghhhh - the plot was so gripping! One could argue it's relatively predictable but I don't believe overly so. The obstacles were intriguing and how Heidi had to face battling and defeating them and how they did tackle the body and mind. I don't care if people brand this as jumping on the Dystopian band wagon as this still had a lot of originality and deserves its own recognition and praise.
Overall:
I can't recommend this enough to everyone. It's a definite new series favourite that I can't wait to continue. The pacing and plot were so captivating and inviting and to finish a book in less than 12 hours should be reflective of how much it sucks you in!
January 13, 2015
Heidi’s tired of being a laborer. She has a plan to escape the life of a slave. She also needs to break free her best friend Gemma who works for a horrible man named Master Douglas who’s extremely abusive. When they escape Heidi tells Gemma her plan to pretend to be boys and sign up for the Savage Run. The Savage Run is an obstacle course for teenage boys and if you succeed you’ll be awarded the status of master and no longer be slaves. Master Douglas shows up at the Savage Run registration and Gemma tells Heidi to run to save herself. Heidi does and she hears gun shots and is certain her best friend is dead. Master Douglas tells the Savage Run registers that Heidi is a girl. They don’t believe him since she looks like a boy and her ID has the name Joseph. Nicholas is one of the registers and he’s President Volkov’s son. President Volkov runs Newland and has arranged the Savage Run. Nicholas doesn’t agree with his dad’s way of running the country by having slaves when other countries are free. Nicholas figures out Heidi’s secret and warns her not to follow through with participating in the Savage Run. He explains it’s not as easy as she may think. He allows her to continue even though it’s against the law for girls to join. Nicholas and another register Mia feel protective of Heidi and want to help her succeed. Some of the boys in the Savage Run are from Heidi’s home country of Newland and recognize her. She makes friends with Arthor and they help each other through the Savage Run. They become very close and Arthor reveals that he’s gay. It’s against the law to be gay and that’s why he’s doing the Savage Run so he can be free to live how he wants. The Savage Run is brutal and set up to kill off most of the contestants. Nothing goes easy for Heidi and Arthor. It’s extremely grueling as they try to survive the Savage Run in hopes to win their freedom.
Action is not my usual read but there is a satisfying romance in the midst of all the death defying events.
This was an intense read. I've never held my breath so much. I cringed at the physical pain endured and cried through the emotional turmoil.
I’m a big fan of E.J. Squires and love her fantasy series “Wraithsong” and “A Viking Blood Saga.” I’m impressed that she wrote a Young Adult Dystopia which is completely different from her other stories but just as compelling
Action is not my usual read but there is a satisfying romance in the midst of all the death defying events.
This was an intense read. I've never held my breath so much. I cringed at the physical pain endured and cried through the emotional turmoil.
I’m a big fan of E.J. Squires and love her fantasy series “Wraithsong” and “A Viking Blood Saga.” I’m impressed that she wrote a Young Adult Dystopia which is completely different from her other stories but just as compelling
January 2, 2015
“Better to be dead than a coward fearing my dreams”
In the YA dystopian coming of age novel, “Savage Run,” by E. Squires, the future does not bode well for humankind. Of course, this is the idea. You know when a young girl is carrying a kitchen knife in her bicycle basket in just the third paragraph, that life in this world is rough and bleak.
The protagonist, the 17-year-old, Heidi, like the rest of the Laborer class, suffers horrendous abuses at the hands of the Masters class. This caste system frames the plot and the battle between the two moves the plot forward.
Along with the heavy apocalyptic feel of the novel’s world, there are also convincing futuristic elements that make it all too real. This being the case, I couldn’t help finding the rampant abuse somewhat depressing. Thankfully there is also a budding romance to be had among the Savage Run race details. And this well-written novel moves quickly.
I can’t help but wonder at all the success and interest in the apocalyptic, dystopian themes lately. Is the “Hunger Games” phenomenon due to plugging into a real cultural collective sense of despair? Such as might occur with a generation growing up with the threat of global warming? Or, are these themes only reoccurring due to wanting to jump on the bandwagon of initial successes? Or, some of both?
I hear some of these ideas echoed in Heidi’s words:
“What if I actually win my freedom? Goosebumps tingle my neck and arms. If I register, at least there’s a chance. At least I’m living life on my own terms and not being forced to be a Laborer without any choices. Better to be dead than a coward fearing my dreams.”
How many of us feel that we are not living life on our own terms? That we are forced consumer laborers, boxed into a life without choices, while we struggle paycheck to paycheck, to pay the bills, or are merely living to work? What savage race are we each running that keeps us hoping for a chance to escape this bleak future that we keep re-imagining?
In the YA dystopian coming of age novel, “Savage Run,” by E. Squires, the future does not bode well for humankind. Of course, this is the idea. You know when a young girl is carrying a kitchen knife in her bicycle basket in just the third paragraph, that life in this world is rough and bleak.
The protagonist, the 17-year-old, Heidi, like the rest of the Laborer class, suffers horrendous abuses at the hands of the Masters class. This caste system frames the plot and the battle between the two moves the plot forward.
Along with the heavy apocalyptic feel of the novel’s world, there are also convincing futuristic elements that make it all too real. This being the case, I couldn’t help finding the rampant abuse somewhat depressing. Thankfully there is also a budding romance to be had among the Savage Run race details. And this well-written novel moves quickly.
I can’t help but wonder at all the success and interest in the apocalyptic, dystopian themes lately. Is the “Hunger Games” phenomenon due to plugging into a real cultural collective sense of despair? Such as might occur with a generation growing up with the threat of global warming? Or, are these themes only reoccurring due to wanting to jump on the bandwagon of initial successes? Or, some of both?
I hear some of these ideas echoed in Heidi’s words:
“What if I actually win my freedom? Goosebumps tingle my neck and arms. If I register, at least there’s a chance. At least I’m living life on my own terms and not being forced to be a Laborer without any choices. Better to be dead than a coward fearing my dreams.”
How many of us feel that we are not living life on our own terms? That we are forced consumer laborers, boxed into a life without choices, while we struggle paycheck to paycheck, to pay the bills, or are merely living to work? What savage race are we each running that keeps us hoping for a chance to escape this bleak future that we keep re-imagining?
January 25, 2015
To start with, thank you for the free ebook. It was a good read if you like YA. I'll admit I've read my fair share of them, and they seam to have a common theme. You women who blame themselves for everything bad that happens. Being a man, it makes me wonder. Do women really blame themselves nonstop?
Anyhow. I found some of it a little far fetched. The slave being able to get away so easily, and the presidents son falling in love with the slave in a few days or less. I liked the obstacle course, and the challenges the people had to go through. I liked the idea of the dysfunctional cast society.
I liked that there were a few parts that I didn't see coming. That's always a good aspect in a book. I found it unlikely that the society would be as brainwashed as they were in only 60+ years. I could be wrong but I would think it would take a few generations. Although the Nazi's did it in less that 60. So maybe it's not too far fetched.
Overall. Worth reading, and the likelihood that I will read the other books is about 65%-75%. Again, Thank you EJ for the book. Much appreciated.
Anyhow. I found some of it a little far fetched. The slave being able to get away so easily, and the presidents son falling in love with the slave in a few days or less. I liked the obstacle course, and the challenges the people had to go through. I liked the idea of the dysfunctional cast society.
I liked that there were a few parts that I didn't see coming. That's always a good aspect in a book. I found it unlikely that the society would be as brainwashed as they were in only 60+ years. I could be wrong but I would think it would take a few generations. Although the Nazi's did it in less that 60. So maybe it's not too far fetched.
Overall. Worth reading, and the likelihood that I will read the other books is about 65%-75%. Again, Thank you EJ for the book. Much appreciated.
January 6, 2015
As YA dystopia goes, Savage Run manages to be unique. While the basic premise might remind people of certain other famous stories, the world, the society, the characters and the plot are very different. And it is a really good read.
The part I most liked was the world building. It wasn't just a case of “Here is how everything is today, deal with it.” We learned how things became so bad, and how society works, and how the 'Masters' keep things under control without resorting to simplistic answers. This gave Heidi, her love interest Nicholas and even the antagonists more structure and believability, as they had so much more to play off of other than “I'm so good,” or “I'm evil.”
With this believability, the characters just jumped off the page and the extensive actions scenes were that much better.
This is a great book I will be rereading.
The part I most liked was the world building. It wasn't just a case of “Here is how everything is today, deal with it.” We learned how things became so bad, and how society works, and how the 'Masters' keep things under control without resorting to simplistic answers. This gave Heidi, her love interest Nicholas and even the antagonists more structure and believability, as they had so much more to play off of other than “I'm so good,” or “I'm evil.”
With this believability, the characters just jumped off the page and the extensive actions scenes were that much better.
This is a great book I will be rereading.
May 5, 2015
Heidi wants to escape her place at the bottom of the caste system the United States has become. When the opportunity arises, Heidi finds that only teenage boys can complete the Savage Run and turn into Masters. She fights her hardest by getting a fake ID, disguising herself, and running away from her father. She pushes herself as far as she can go, and gives her all. This is a story of strength of character, perseverance, and courage. How much is Heidi willing to take for what she believes is freedom?
January 15, 2015
I received “Savage Run” in exchange for an honest review. So, I’ll be honest.
When I started Heidi’s story I was pretty excited about what was going to happen. There was this interesting society divided into Masters, Advisors and Laborers, there was a heroine devising a risky plan to gain her and her friend’s freedom and there was going to be an obstacle course. Cool!
I expected Heidi to be on constant guard, always anxious that someone finds out she’s a girl. I expected a tentative relationship to build between her and Nicholas. I expected “Savage Run” to be a bit like “The Hunger Games” with a lot of voluntary participants.
But I got Heidi who actually is already discovered not to be Joseph when she tries to sign up. It’s a bit like a giant sign flashing above her head saying “Look, I’m a girl”. Master Douglas tells everyone . She looks like it. A lot of people knowing her see her on TV going through the obstacle course. She’s singled out as the weakest participant getting a lot of attention from the media. Come on, she would have been detected on the spot. Instead, only the “right” people seem to find out.
This bothered me about “Savage Run” in general. As if by a miracle, all the “right” things that drive the story in the direction wanted by the author happen. They are not really explained and often don’t make sense. I had a voice in my head shouting “That just doesn’t happen!” a lot. In fact, my pdf is speckled with notes saying things like "what? no leader would ever do that" or "improbable, that would cost a fortune".
Take the love story. Heidi tries to sign up for the Savage Run, meeting Nicholas. He immediately steps in to help her, takes her everywhere, shares intimate details right from the start. Because. There’s no evolution, it’s just instant love. He says things like “Your candor is one of the things I appreciate most about you” right from the start. It didn’t feel real. There was no trust that needed to be gained, no second thoughts or unsureness about the motives of the other person.
I did care about Arthor. His relationship with Heidi has a real base. He has a story, he is no handsome shallow poster boy. He felt real. Arthor gave the overall story more depth and together with the actual obstacle course he’s the reason I wanted to keep on reading.
Heidi, on the other hand, I found very ambiguous. She has her moments, how she keeps going even though the pain must be unbearable, how she bonds with Arthor. And then sometimes she’s just ridiculous. Most of the time when she’s not in immediate danger, her thoughts revolve around Gemma, her mother and father, Nicholas. And she keeps repeating the same things over and over again. While that might be accurate for a person with posttraumatic stress disorder, it doesn’t make a good dystopia, it just gets repetitive.
I do know that I have been really hard on “Savage Run”. It is eventful, has an interesting premise, is set in an exciting world and contains some very good ideas. While I was put off by the improbability of a lot of things, others might not be as bothered. “Savage Run” certainly is a good independent novel, but because of the reasons mentioned above I can give it no more than 3 stars.
When I started Heidi’s story I was pretty excited about what was going to happen. There was this interesting society divided into Masters, Advisors and Laborers, there was a heroine devising a risky plan to gain her and her friend’s freedom and there was going to be an obstacle course. Cool!
I expected Heidi to be on constant guard, always anxious that someone finds out she’s a girl. I expected a tentative relationship to build between her and Nicholas. I expected “Savage Run” to be a bit like “The Hunger Games” with a lot of voluntary participants.
But I got Heidi who actually is already discovered not to be Joseph when she tries to sign up. It’s a bit like a giant sign flashing above her head saying “Look, I’m a girl”. Master Douglas tells everyone . She looks like it. A lot of people knowing her see her on TV going through the obstacle course. She’s singled out as the weakest participant getting a lot of attention from the media. Come on, she would have been detected on the spot. Instead, only the “right” people seem to find out.
This bothered me about “Savage Run” in general. As if by a miracle, all the “right” things that drive the story in the direction wanted by the author happen. They are not really explained and often don’t make sense. I had a voice in my head shouting “That just doesn’t happen!” a lot. In fact, my pdf is speckled with notes saying things like "what? no leader would ever do that" or "improbable, that would cost a fortune".
Take the love story. Heidi tries to sign up for the Savage Run, meeting Nicholas. He immediately steps in to help her, takes her everywhere, shares intimate details right from the start. Because. There’s no evolution, it’s just instant love. He says things like “Your candor is one of the things I appreciate most about you” right from the start. It didn’t feel real. There was no trust that needed to be gained, no second thoughts or unsureness about the motives of the other person.
I did care about Arthor. His relationship with Heidi has a real base. He has a story, he is no handsome shallow poster boy. He felt real. Arthor gave the overall story more depth and together with the actual obstacle course he’s the reason I wanted to keep on reading.
Heidi, on the other hand, I found very ambiguous. She has her moments, how she keeps going even though the pain must be unbearable, how she bonds with Arthor. And then sometimes she’s just ridiculous. Most of the time when she’s not in immediate danger, her thoughts revolve around Gemma, her mother and father, Nicholas. And she keeps repeating the same things over and over again. While that might be accurate for a person with posttraumatic stress disorder, it doesn’t make a good dystopia, it just gets repetitive.
I do know that I have been really hard on “Savage Run”. It is eventful, has an interesting premise, is set in an exciting world and contains some very good ideas. While I was put off by the improbability of a lot of things, others might not be as bothered. “Savage Run” certainly is a good independent novel, but because of the reasons mentioned above I can give it no more than 3 stars.
January 26, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is a high octane dystopian, survival of the fittest type of thrilling adventure. It contains generous amounts of action, death, politics and challenges with a dusting of romance.
The story is set in the future where a virus has wiped out the majority of the worlds population and the remaining humans are divided into their surviving countries/colonies. The colony in which our main character Heidi resides is the result of a rouge branch of the military taking control and advantage of a group of survivors (and the worlds oil). The society is governed by a dictator ship headed by the 'President" he has created a society run by classes; at the top are the masters, then advisors and finally the labourers. Heidi is a labourer which equates to a slave under the vindictive rule of the president with death being the ultimate punishment for disobedience. In attempts to gain her freedom Heidi poses as a male in order to enter the SAVAGE RUN, an obstacle course of epic proportions which is designed to kill the vast majority of participants.
I loved the fact that although this book had a dystopian angle, there was still huge amounts of imagination put into futuristic technology. This included the likes of instant hangover cures (yes please!) and the development of hybrid/mythical animals such as the e-conda (an electric aquatic giant anaconda!) and DRAGONS. The obstacles and unbelievable and completely un-survivable but are written in such a way that you get suckered right into the story and feel as though you are running along beside Heidi.
In addition to all the action that is taking place there is also the battle of morals, although brief the story explores homosexuality (which is illegal), freedom and responsibility, mental and physical abuse and abandonment.
I loved that the story was built of many complex ideas yet it remained easy reading and totally riveting.
The general air of the book reminded me a lot of the hunger games and other similar stories although not many comparisons can be drawn apart from the main character, Heidi a strong-willed brave women (But what story shouldn't have a fierce though somewhat naive heroine?)
Overall i would recommend this book to anyone! It was a great story and I am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is a high octane dystopian, survival of the fittest type of thrilling adventure. It contains generous amounts of action, death, politics and challenges with a dusting of romance.
The story is set in the future where a virus has wiped out the majority of the worlds population and the remaining humans are divided into their surviving countries/colonies. The colony in which our main character Heidi resides is the result of a rouge branch of the military taking control and advantage of a group of survivors (and the worlds oil). The society is governed by a dictator ship headed by the 'President" he has created a society run by classes; at the top are the masters, then advisors and finally the labourers. Heidi is a labourer which equates to a slave under the vindictive rule of the president with death being the ultimate punishment for disobedience. In attempts to gain her freedom Heidi poses as a male in order to enter the SAVAGE RUN, an obstacle course of epic proportions which is designed to kill the vast majority of participants.
I loved the fact that although this book had a dystopian angle, there was still huge amounts of imagination put into futuristic technology. This included the likes of instant hangover cures (yes please!) and the development of hybrid/mythical animals such as the e-conda (an electric aquatic giant anaconda!) and DRAGONS. The obstacles and unbelievable and completely un-survivable but are written in such a way that you get suckered right into the story and feel as though you are running along beside Heidi.
In addition to all the action that is taking place there is also the battle of morals, although brief the story explores homosexuality (which is illegal), freedom and responsibility, mental and physical abuse and abandonment.
I loved that the story was built of many complex ideas yet it remained easy reading and totally riveting.
The general air of the book reminded me a lot of the hunger games and other similar stories although not many comparisons can be drawn apart from the main character, Heidi a strong-willed brave women (But what story shouldn't have a fierce though somewhat naive heroine?)
Overall i would recommend this book to anyone! It was a great story and I am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2014
Kindle Copy from Author for Review
Heidi Cruise is a seventeen year old Laborer, the lowest level in Newland. Living a life of servitude with a very strict father; she watches her best friend being abused daily by her master. Having had enough she decides to disguise herself and her friend as male teenagers to enter the dangerous Savage Run in order to gain their freedom. Participants must be able to live through various obstacle course and the winners will be able to gain their freedom.
They are about to sign up when they are caught and he friend tells her to go ahead as she is caught by her Master. Torn between trying to help her and signing in for the Savage Run, she eventually chooses the Run and the possibility of freedom.
One of the Registrar save
s her knowing she is using a fake identification but let her sign up. He turns out to the son of the President of Newland and knows she is a girl. He tries to help her along the way knowing that she is a girl and trying to stop her from the Run knowing how dangerous it is.
Heidi befriends Arthor a gay guy which is illegal in their world who also keeps her secret as he tries to help her out on the course despite herself. As contestants keep falling along the way, they are also target by the President and by another contestant. Injuries and mishaps along the way knowing you cannot trust anyone.
Along the way, there is a connection between Heidi and Nicholas but it kept at arms length. Will Heidi be able to gain her freedom or will she end up dead trying to gain it?
Heidi Cruise is a seventeen year old Laborer, the lowest level in Newland. Living a life of servitude with a very strict father; she watches her best friend being abused daily by her master. Having had enough she decides to disguise herself and her friend as male teenagers to enter the dangerous Savage Run in order to gain their freedom. Participants must be able to live through various obstacle course and the winners will be able to gain their freedom.
They are about to sign up when they are caught and he friend tells her to go ahead as she is caught by her Master. Torn between trying to help her and signing in for the Savage Run, she eventually chooses the Run and the possibility of freedom.
One of the Registrar save
s her knowing she is using a fake identification but let her sign up. He turns out to the son of the President of Newland and knows she is a girl. He tries to help her along the way knowing that she is a girl and trying to stop her from the Run knowing how dangerous it is.
Heidi befriends Arthor a gay guy which is illegal in their world who also keeps her secret as he tries to help her out on the course despite herself. As contestants keep falling along the way, they are also target by the President and by another contestant. Injuries and mishaps along the way knowing you cannot trust anyone.
Along the way, there is a connection between Heidi and Nicholas but it kept at arms length. Will Heidi be able to gain her freedom or will she end up dead trying to gain it?
January 19, 2015
Savage Run is a decent YA novel, even if it’s storyline is rather predictable.
Cons:
Too similar a storyline as every other dystopian/post-apocalyptic YA novel out there right now: A shattered world, a competition that will end in making a better life for you, an oppressive government, a love story, etc. You get the picture. Some of the details of the setting (including what the world is like, how it became that way) seem to be left out and traded in for getting the reader hooked on sappy romance scenes. Maybe the holes left by that will be filled in in the later installments, but it would have made for a more interesting story than, say, certain make-out scenes.
Pros:
A fast read, definitely a page-turner. Despite being pretty predictable, it was still a rather exciting story. There’s a reason this genre is popular, and this book reminds us why. It also does a decent job (unlike most other YA novels in this genre I’ve read) of at least adressing equality and civil rights when it comes to the LGBT community. Props for that!
If you’re looking for a easy weekend read and are a fan of other books in this genre, you’ll probably enjoy it.
Cons:
Too similar a storyline as every other dystopian/post-apocalyptic YA novel out there right now: A shattered world, a competition that will end in making a better life for you, an oppressive government, a love story, etc. You get the picture. Some of the details of the setting (including what the world is like, how it became that way) seem to be left out and traded in for getting the reader hooked on sappy romance scenes. Maybe the holes left by that will be filled in in the later installments, but it would have made for a more interesting story than, say, certain make-out scenes.
Pros:
A fast read, definitely a page-turner. Despite being pretty predictable, it was still a rather exciting story. There’s a reason this genre is popular, and this book reminds us why. It also does a decent job (unlike most other YA novels in this genre I’ve read) of at least adressing equality and civil rights when it comes to the LGBT community. Props for that!
If you’re looking for a easy weekend read and are a fan of other books in this genre, you’ll probably enjoy it.
February 1, 2015
This is an incredibly strong first novel for author E. Squires! I was delighted to find it to be such a well developed Dystopian novel with exceptional world building and character development. Heidi as the main character is brilliant, she is complex, brave, smart, and determined in her endeavors. It amused me to see that 17 year old girls in the future behave just like 17 year old girls now. They want to get away, forge their own path, and make their lives better.
Newland is our dystopia in this story and it is comprised of a caste system or hierarchy- Masters, Advisers, and Laborers- Taking this journey with Heidi was exciting, she is a determined and very strong female lead- who is thought to be a boy for much of the adventure! I really loved the gender play in the book and how characteristics that we are so accustomed to assigning to one gender or another were handled. Something Squires did so well as break those barriers and show us that we are all just people.
Excellent first book! My only issue with the book is the editing, which could use a fair amount of work but didn't take away from the story enough to make me rate it lower than a 5.
Newland is our dystopia in this story and it is comprised of a caste system or hierarchy- Masters, Advisers, and Laborers- Taking this journey with Heidi was exciting, she is a determined and very strong female lead- who is thought to be a boy for much of the adventure! I really loved the gender play in the book and how characteristics that we are so accustomed to assigning to one gender or another were handled. Something Squires did so well as break those barriers and show us that we are all just people.
Excellent first book! My only issue with the book is the editing, which could use a fair amount of work but didn't take away from the story enough to make me rate it lower than a 5.
January 25, 2015
I received a copy of this book by the author through Goodreads and I'm SO happy I did. This book was probably a solid 3.5* for me, it was action packed from the beginning and throughout but aas series go (and i can't wait for the sequel) there's always room for improvement and I feel this series will just keep getting better.
Heidi is such a fascinating character because, unlike most female protagonist's, the minute Mr.Love Interest walks into the scene all other characters are put on the low burner, but for Heidi there's no one more important to here than her best friend Gemma which she proves when in a sim-like situation and has to choose to shoot one or the other.
There were a few plots line which, though I personally didn't actually guess straight away, I felt the author was spelling it out for us by the end e.g. "I've already ruled out her being my mother"... that's the first conclusion you would jump to.. seriously?
But if you're looking for a fun, fast read with great characters then Savage Run is definitely a book to read, and more people should!
Heidi is such a fascinating character because, unlike most female protagonist's, the minute Mr.Love Interest walks into the scene all other characters are put on the low burner, but for Heidi there's no one more important to here than her best friend Gemma which she proves when in a sim-like situation and has to choose to shoot one or the other.
There were a few plots line which, though I personally didn't actually guess straight away, I felt the author was spelling it out for us by the end e.g. "I've already ruled out her being my mother"... that's the first conclusion you would jump to.. seriously?
But if you're looking for a fun, fast read with great characters then Savage Run is definitely a book to read, and more people should!
January 6, 2015
I wasn't really sure what to expect when I started reading Savage Run, but I am beyond happy that I decided to read this one. E. Squires did an excellent job not only writing an incredible story, but writing complex characters who readers could relate to and fully understand.
Heidi is tired of living life as a slave, and desperately wants to break free. Her only course of escape is to sign up for the Savage Run, which will enable her to earn freedom and also status as a master. The only problem is, the Savage Run is extremely dangerous and only boys are allowed to participate in it. She is worried that she won't be able to survive, but she's determined to do so.
This book is similar to The Hunger Games but in my opinion, this one is much better written and held my attention more than The Hunger Games did. The author does an excellent job of creating suspense, and twists and turns that I definitely didn't expect to come. I enjoyed the ending a lot too, because it wasn't so predictable.
If you are a fan of suspense and some action, I would definitely recommend this one.
Heidi is tired of living life as a slave, and desperately wants to break free. Her only course of escape is to sign up for the Savage Run, which will enable her to earn freedom and also status as a master. The only problem is, the Savage Run is extremely dangerous and only boys are allowed to participate in it. She is worried that she won't be able to survive, but she's determined to do so.
This book is similar to The Hunger Games but in my opinion, this one is much better written and held my attention more than The Hunger Games did. The author does an excellent job of creating suspense, and twists and turns that I definitely didn't expect to come. I enjoyed the ending a lot too, because it wasn't so predictable.
If you are a fan of suspense and some action, I would definitely recommend this one.
December 26, 2014
*I received an Advanced Reader's ebook copy from Story Cartel*
I have to say, this book is not what I expected it to be but I LOVED it! The book's summary seemed very interesting which is one of the reasons why it caught my attention to read it. This book is also a YA genre which I love and therefore looked forward to reading it. I would give this book 5 stars. I expected this book to be full of action packed scenes and some romance. The book did fulfill these requirements! Although the book is a little bit long... it was worth reading it! For those who are waiting for the book to come out, you should definitely pick up a copy of it when it gets released. This book was a page turner for me from the beginning to the story. It hooked me in the story and I don't want to give too much away [ No one likes a spoiler :)] This book is very enjoyable and readers who love YA dystopian should check out this book!
* If it wasn't clear enough: 5 Stars :) *
February 8, 2015
An e-copy for a review.
A few weeks ago I saw that I could get this book, if I would review it. Well, I'm not English, but I did want to read this book. I namely love dystopias. So I'll do my best and hope that I don't make mistakes with my English:)
I love Young Adult books, so I was immediately pretty interested in this book. And it was true, Savage Run has a typical Young Adult genre. Heidi is trying to obtain freedom for herself and others but she's got to do unhuman things to receive it. All the ideas around Heidi were very original and refreshing. I really liked how it was written and I loved the whole new world and systems. I only think the tension wasn't high enough.
Heidi is a very nice and credible character wich I really liked, because I think it can be irritating when you can't empathize with the main character.
There were some things better than others, but I'm really looking forward to the next parts (I at least thought that there were coming more books?).
A few weeks ago I saw that I could get this book, if I would review it. Well, I'm not English, but I did want to read this book. I namely love dystopias. So I'll do my best and hope that I don't make mistakes with my English:)
I love Young Adult books, so I was immediately pretty interested in this book. And it was true, Savage Run has a typical Young Adult genre. Heidi is trying to obtain freedom for herself and others but she's got to do unhuman things to receive it. All the ideas around Heidi were very original and refreshing. I really liked how it was written and I loved the whole new world and systems. I only think the tension wasn't high enough.
Heidi is a very nice and credible character wich I really liked, because I think it can be irritating when you can't empathize with the main character.
There were some things better than others, but I'm really looking forward to the next parts (I at least thought that there were coming more books?).
January 3, 2015
Heidi can't take living like a slave anymore. She wants freedom to make her own choices and live her own life.
The only escape plan she can think of is the Savage Run. If you can survive it, you get freedom and Master status. But girls aren't allowed to sign up, and the Savage Run is the most dangerous obstacle course anyone has ever seen. Will she be able to earn her freedom and save others in the process or will she be destroyed-along with everything and everyone she loves?
Savage Run is an awesome read. A page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat, I had a hard time putting it down and I think you will too.
E.J. Squires has written a book full of details that help you see everything. You are put right in the middle of everything, and you are invested in the outcome.
I am ready for the next book-I can't wait to see what happens next!!
The only escape plan she can think of is the Savage Run. If you can survive it, you get freedom and Master status. But girls aren't allowed to sign up, and the Savage Run is the most dangerous obstacle course anyone has ever seen. Will she be able to earn her freedom and save others in the process or will she be destroyed-along with everything and everyone she loves?
Savage Run is an awesome read. A page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat, I had a hard time putting it down and I think you will too.
E.J. Squires has written a book full of details that help you see everything. You are put right in the middle of everything, and you are invested in the outcome.
I am ready for the next book-I can't wait to see what happens next!!
January 10, 2015
E.J. Squires' new dystopian coming of age novel, "Savage Run," is packed with non-stop action. In a world with strict adherence to a caste system, 17 year-old Heidi Cruise is of the lowest class, Laborer. Oppressed, abused, and deprived of all freedom, Heidi is forced to participate in an incredibly dangerous obstacle course to gain her freedom. "Savage Run" keeps you on the edge of your seat as you follow Heidi on her journey through life threatening obstacles, vengeful encounters, and the realization of what fighting for ones freedom really means. A wonderful ride!
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
*I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
January 17, 2015
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
WOW! What an amazing book, it had everything from action to romance to mystery. I don't want to say too much as I hate spoilers & if I continue I will give out spoilers, just trust me and get this book now. If you liked the Hunger Games or Divergent then you will love this book. I can't wait for the next book! I don't think I can say anymore so go get it already! :)
WOW! What an amazing book, it had everything from action to romance to mystery. I don't want to say too much as I hate spoilers & if I continue I will give out spoilers, just trust me and get this book now. If you liked the Hunger Games or Divergent then you will love this book. I can't wait for the next book! I don't think I can say anymore so go get it already! :)
January 6, 2015
This book was one that I couldn't put down. The first chapter had me thinking the story would go another way but it didn't. The bravery of Heidi aka Joseph is heart warming. All she wants is freedom to live her own life and not to be a slave to a master. The book is full of action, drama, and romance. It shows us the true bonds of friends. The type of friendship where you will risk your life to save a friend.
December 22, 2014
What a roller coaster of a story ! It has non-stop action and is more exciting than watching the early episodes of Survivors. Besides the page turning story, the author addresses several crucial issues, including freedom, loyalty, homophobia and safety. Of course, a bit of romance adds to the excitement!
I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2015
When hedi cruise enters a male only gruelling obstacle course in attempt to win her freedom not only is it highly dangerous but also compllely forbidden. So Heidi must disguise herself as a boy and enter the savage run.
It is Mulan meets the hunger games.
A page turner from start to finish.
Very different, intriguing read.
I really enjoyed it from start to finish
It is Mulan meets the hunger games.
A page turner from start to finish.
Very different, intriguing read.
I really enjoyed it from start to finish
January 9, 2015
Where do I start with this book? It had a mix of everything which made more or less great. I loved this book because I feel how people in this world rank us jus like in this book. Although I really enjoyed reading this book I gave it four stars because I felt that if was like a remake of The Hunger Games.
April 13, 2015
I don't even know if I can honestly say I've read this book. What I read just suddenly ended. I see on Amazon there is a trilogy, but apparently it is one book divided. I'm a little disappointed because I was really enjoying this story. Even though I want to know what happens I don't feel compelled to buy the next part because honestly I'm pissed.
December 12, 2014
Savage Run is a must-read for any YA dystopian fan. A page turner from the start, Savage Run keeps the reader commiserating with and cheering for Heidi along the whole thrilling ride. After reading Savage Run, I can't wait to read other books by Squires!
January 14, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The book started out a little slow, but soon after, it was all action. I really enjoyed it from start to finish.Can't wait for the next one.
The book started out a little slow, but soon after, it was all action. I really enjoyed it from start to finish.Can't wait for the next one.
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