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Otherborn #1
Otherborn
London and her teenage friends live in a reprocessed world.
Confined within Capital City’s concrete walls, London has done the impossible and the illegal. She’s created something New- a song. But her mentor, club owner Pauly, is not impressed. Since the historic Energy Crisis forced everyone behind walls generations ago, the Tycoons have ensured there is truly nothing new allowed under the sun. Pauly warns London to keep her song to herself, if she knows what’s good for her.
What he doesn’t know is that London is keeping an even bigger secret: she dreams. And she’s not alone. London’s band-mates and friends have begun dreaming as well, seeing themselves in “night pictures” as beings from another world. As Otherborn, they must piece together the story of their astral avatars, the Others, in order to save their world from a dreamless, hopeless future.
When Pauly is murdered and an Otherborn goes missing, London realizes someone is hunting them down. Escaping along the Outroads, they brave the deserted Houselands with only their dreams to guide them. Can they find their friend before the assassin finds them? Will being Otherborn save their lives, or destroy them?
Confined within Capital City’s concrete walls, London has done the impossible and the illegal. She’s created something New- a song. But her mentor, club owner Pauly, is not impressed. Since the historic Energy Crisis forced everyone behind walls generations ago, the Tycoons have ensured there is truly nothing new allowed under the sun. Pauly warns London to keep her song to herself, if she knows what’s good for her.
What he doesn’t know is that London is keeping an even bigger secret: she dreams. And she’s not alone. London’s band-mates and friends have begun dreaming as well, seeing themselves in “night pictures” as beings from another world. As Otherborn, they must piece together the story of their astral avatars, the Others, in order to save their world from a dreamless, hopeless future.
When Pauly is murdered and an Otherborn goes missing, London realizes someone is hunting them down. Escaping along the Outroads, they brave the deserted Houselands with only their dreams to guide them. Can they find their friend before the assassin finds them? Will being Otherborn save their lives, or destroy them?
290 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2012
1 person is currently reading
361 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 22, 2012
For those of you who have been following along on my reviews, you know that I love discovering new authors. Finding a gem in such a deluge of novels is pretty difficult, but Otherborn is definitely one of those gems. I was approached by the author to review her book, and I'm glad she sent me a copy! I rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Otherborn by Anna Silver is an amalgam of genres-- I would describe it as a YA science fiction dystopian novel. We are introduced to London, a hardened young girl who has to live in a world where nothing is New. No one ever dreams, except for her. She and her band of friends (who have also started dreaming) start to realize there is a lot more to their world than they realized. The Tycoons rule their world, and because of war and lack of resources, everyone lives in squalor. They barter, steal, and trade to stay alive. When one of their gang gets brutally killed and another kidnapped, the friends journey to find their missing companion, and discover secret upon secret along the way.
I was actually reading another similar and well hyped book at the same time, and put down that one in favor of this one. The world building is fascinating and not one I've seen yet. The characters are all very distinct, and as the reader will find out, have more layers than one. The pacing is great, and I was surprised more than once with some terrific twists to the storyline. Silver is very good at description-- I could distinctly imagine the surroundings and what their journey looked like.
The one issue I had with this book was London herself. She is a very prickly protagonist, and Silver takes a risk at making her the main character. I had a hard time liking her. That said, I know this is likely to be a trilogy, so her growth has to come in three books. So I'm willing to wait.
Overall, a terrific first installment by a new author with wonderful world building and fascinating characters. I'll be picking up the next book, for sure!
Otherborn by Anna Silver is an amalgam of genres-- I would describe it as a YA science fiction dystopian novel. We are introduced to London, a hardened young girl who has to live in a world where nothing is New. No one ever dreams, except for her. She and her band of friends (who have also started dreaming) start to realize there is a lot more to their world than they realized. The Tycoons rule their world, and because of war and lack of resources, everyone lives in squalor. They barter, steal, and trade to stay alive. When one of their gang gets brutally killed and another kidnapped, the friends journey to find their missing companion, and discover secret upon secret along the way.
I was actually reading another similar and well hyped book at the same time, and put down that one in favor of this one. The world building is fascinating and not one I've seen yet. The characters are all very distinct, and as the reader will find out, have more layers than one. The pacing is great, and I was surprised more than once with some terrific twists to the storyline. Silver is very good at description-- I could distinctly imagine the surroundings and what their journey looked like.
The one issue I had with this book was London herself. She is a very prickly protagonist, and Silver takes a risk at making her the main character. I had a hard time liking her. That said, I know this is likely to be a trilogy, so her growth has to come in three books. So I'm willing to wait.
Overall, a terrific first installment by a new author with wonderful world building and fascinating characters. I'll be picking up the next book, for sure!
Read
April 7, 2013I got to around 26% before I DNFed. It's not that it's a terrible book because it's definitely not on Starcrossed or Fallen's level. But I did feel the writing and characters lacked a certain bit of depth that I prefer. Otherborn does have a very interesting premise, but it failed at building the right amount of anticipation to hold my attention.
June 16, 2013
This copy was given to me for review/blog tour purposes, the tour stops by at my blog YA Midnight Reads on April 4th 2013! Get ready for giveaways, reviews and much more!
3.5 stars
Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray The Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray The Lord my soul to take.
Otherborn is a refreshing dystopian novel that takes readers on a journey of heart stopping action, cute romances and an unsolved mystery. I had many thoughts about Otherborn, while there were so many great contributing factors to this read, I could help but notice a few holes here and there.
When I found out this this was a dustopian novel, I freaked out. It is a risk inside itself when an indie author writes dystopian as so many things can go wrong in aspects of world building, plot lines and characterisation. I must admit, that Otherborn was a winner! Anna has some of the greatest writing skills that I've ever come across, she described scenes so realistically I could feel myself living in that wrecked dystopian world.
In a dark world where no one dreams or is not allowed to create or conjure anything New, something happens to London against all odds. She dreams. And her band of friends start to dream too, they dream of themselves, though slightly altered in a alternate world and uncover somethings that they'd never expect. They must act, to save their world from this twisted era.
The characters of this book were one of the strongest points. From the beginning when we got introduced to London, I knew she wasn't going to be a whiny girl complaining pointless about how the world was so unfair. London is a capable, focused female protagonist that wound the book tight. While at times her feelings because rather intrusive and too childish, cough. Romance. Cough. Cough. She was a well created main character that lead beautifully.
Many books have habits on droning on and on when the story commences- trust me. It's VERY boring to read but Otherborn, gladly, shoots right into the juicy plot. Contrary to this, that meant info dumping and too-many-characters-introduced-at-once. Bleh. I really suffered from a mind frazzle at the beginning abut soon, once the story adjusted and my brain adjusted all was well.
Also, the romance developed rather quickly but when the story began, they were all sort of half way through their 'relationship status'. So it wasn't insta-love. London and Rye are the cutest!! *flails*
Otherborn was a creepily fun read that kept me intrigued from the first page onwards once my brain adjusted. I recommend to people who are thirsty for some new and original dystopian stories.
3.5 stars
Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray The Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray The Lord my soul to take.
Otherborn is a refreshing dystopian novel that takes readers on a journey of heart stopping action, cute romances and an unsolved mystery. I had many thoughts about Otherborn, while there were so many great contributing factors to this read, I could help but notice a few holes here and there.
When I found out this this was a dustopian novel, I freaked out. It is a risk inside itself when an indie author writes dystopian as so many things can go wrong in aspects of world building, plot lines and characterisation. I must admit, that Otherborn was a winner! Anna has some of the greatest writing skills that I've ever come across, she described scenes so realistically I could feel myself living in that wrecked dystopian world.
In a dark world where no one dreams or is not allowed to create or conjure anything New, something happens to London against all odds. She dreams. And her band of friends start to dream too, they dream of themselves, though slightly altered in a alternate world and uncover somethings that they'd never expect. They must act, to save their world from this twisted era.
The characters of this book were one of the strongest points. From the beginning when we got introduced to London, I knew she wasn't going to be a whiny girl complaining pointless about how the world was so unfair. London is a capable, focused female protagonist that wound the book tight. While at times her feelings because rather intrusive and too childish, cough. Romance. Cough. Cough. She was a well created main character that lead beautifully.
Many books have habits on droning on and on when the story commences- trust me. It's VERY boring to read but Otherborn, gladly, shoots right into the juicy plot. Contrary to this, that meant info dumping and too-many-characters-introduced-at-once. Bleh. I really suffered from a mind frazzle at the beginning abut soon, once the story adjusted and my brain adjusted all was well.
Also, the romance developed rather quickly but when the story began, they were all sort of half way through their 'relationship status'. So it wasn't insta-love. London and Rye are the cutest!! *flails*
Otherborn was a creepily fun read that kept me intrigued from
March 31, 2013
"Once upon a time it had been a hotel or something,
the stairwells and lobby still fashioned
from the vintage brass and marble fittings they'd first known,
the elevators permanently 'out of order.'
But the building maintained a certain dystopian chic
that London had come to identify with."
--Anna Silver, Otherborn
Welcome to this stop on the Otherborn Blog Tour!! When Anna emailed me asking to join her tour I was immediately intrigued by the book...um, duh it is a dystopia, how could I deny? And I am so glad I said yes! The concept of this book was so unique and kind of the epitome and extreme of an oppressive dystopian world. The citizens of the city are pretty much trapped inside the city walls, they are only given vouchers/paper tickets in order to buy food and clothes which are all regulated by the government, art is not only highly censored but all in all obliterated, and nothing New is ever created...no music, art, expression of any kind. This is extreme people.
The tables start to turn when London does the impossible...she writes a song. This is absolutely unheard of. Not only does she create something New, but we find out she dreams as well. Another thing of legend. And she's not alone. 4 of her closest friends also dream and experience themselves as an alternate human being in their dreams. So mixed in with this dystopian world is this alternate dream universe where our characters also exist. Totally trippy, right?! Enter Rye, Kim, Zen and Avery. All dreamers. All complete with an 'Otherborn,' their alternate persona. Each time we got a glimpse into their dream world was such a treat for me. While it totally twisted my mind trying to figure out and grasp what was going on, I really liked this aspect of the story. I don't read a lot of alternate universe type story lines so this whole idea was so unique and fresh to me. As frustrating as my impatient reading mind is when I'm reading things I don't fully understand yet, the mystery behind it is really intriguing and I wanted to know more.
Because of this I never really knew where the plot was going. Without giving too much away I really liked the honesty of the character's actions. These were just normal kids trying to make a difference and change their situation. They make mistakes, they have no clue what to do half the time and I feel the desperation behind their dire situation. I thought this brought so much to the story. It felt real because they weren't "regular" kids that all of the sudden know how to fight against the world.
I do have mixed feelings about the character development of all the characters. The main character London is a very hardened young girl. She is very independent, strong-willed and takes care of herself. She is pretty closed off emotionally which should have irritated me but it made me like her more. Stuff happens later on where she pretty much shuts down and some of me wanted to shake her and say listen, the majority understood where she was coming from. Refusing to give in and be weak. I thought she was just great. I really liked Rye as well. His decisions and being wishy-washy in the beginning bothered me but towards the middle and through the end he started to really grow on me and certain lines of his just blew me away. He began to stand his ground and make decisions. And there is more but again, can't give away the plot.
The other characters in the periphery didn't really make an impact on me. The other two boys Zen and Kim kind of blended together. I mean, they were distinct but I didn't feel as connected to them as I did London and Rye. Avery is a little better and I have a feeling we are going to get more of her in the next installment which I am really looking forward to. Tora was an extremely interesting character. So similar to London but so different at the same time. I really enjoyed her development as a character because her history is so pertinent to the world building and her part in the story is very mysterious and I want to see where her piece of the puzzle fits in.
The world building is really good. You feel the desperation of the characters. The absolute loss of hope with the people around them. The lack of beauty in the world that is suffocating each one of them. And the story behind their Otherborns is just...wow. I need more details about their history and reason for what is happening to them. Great world building, pretty good character development and the unique plot and story line will definitely keep you interested. I will for sure be reading the next book. :)
March 28, 2013
In a reprocessed world, everything is … reprocessed. Music is repeatedly played and learned. Materials are recycled or reused. Nothing is new. People no longer dream and inside the concrete walls of the city, anything that is out-of-norm is not tolerated. Unlike many who cannot dream while they sleep at night, London and a few of her friends are different. They can dream. They can create new songs and they know they could be in huge trouble if they’re being discovered. When people around them are murdered and then one of them goes missing, London knows they have to do something about their situation. Will they be able to find their missing friend before it’s too late?
To be honest, I can’t imagine myself living in a world where nothing is new and everything is reprocessed. I think I’d feel claustrophobically suffocated! So, when I was being introduced to the few astral or otherworldly beings who chose to sacrifice for the greater good to hopefully save the reprocessed world, I was stunned. On one hand, I was fascinated and humbled by these amazing souls, but on the other hand, I felt totally baffled by their lack of planning. They seemed so clueless about the scope of danger that they put themselves into and I must say it’s quite a wonderment that most of them were able to survive when the story came to its end in this installment. You’d have to read the book to fully grasp the extent of how the astral realm would play an essential part in the plot as well as the character development here but if I may share one thing, I’d say the story would not be as interesting as it is if the astral beings had planned things thoroughly before they made their sacrifice for the reprocessed world.
Without a doubt, London is a person with a big heart. She cares about her friends but at the same time, she doesn’t feel like she wants to openly express herself. When she gradually pieces together the fragments of what her dreams really mean, she knows she must do something wise but being a teenager with a quick temper, it’s not easy for her to behave in a disciplined and diplomatic manner. I wouldn’t say I dislike her but she is not exactly a character that I feel I could easily connect with.
The situation leading to the conclusion of this installment is dire and thrilling but the ending? It leaves me with a number of burning questions unanswered. While I’m glad I took the time to read the book, I felt dissatisfied as I would probably not be able to feel resolved until the next book comes out! :(
After finishing the book and giving it some thoughts, I’d say Otherborn is a multi-faceted story that is entertaining, different and thought-provoking. With a tone that is dark, corrupted and miserable, it reveals to us a dystopian world that is the result of a plethora of lies stemming from indulgence, superficiality, selfishness and greed. Although I didn’t feel as connected with the characters as I’d like, I appreciate the uniqueness of how dreams can bring out an astral/ metaphysical flavor to the story. If you’ve never read a dystopian novel with an astral/ metaphysical aspect, you may want to look this one up and add it to your to-read list. I had a good time reading it and I hope you will too.
--
Originally posted on Leisure Reads.
A copy of the book was provided by publisher for review purposes.
To be honest, I can’t imagine myself living in a world where nothing is new and everything is reprocessed. I think I’d feel claustrophobically suffocated! So, when I was being introduced to the few astral or otherworldly beings who chose to sacrifice for the greater good to hopefully save the reprocessed world, I was stunned. On one hand, I was fascinated and humbled by these amazing souls, but on the other hand, I felt totally baffled by their lack of planning. They seemed so clueless about the scope of danger that they put themselves into and I must say it’s quite a wonderment that most of them were able to survive when the story came to its end in this installment. You’d have to read the book to fully grasp the extent of how the astral realm would play an essential part in the plot as well as the character development here but if I may share one thing, I’d say the story would not be as interesting as it is if the astral beings had planned things thoroughly before they made their sacrifice for the reprocessed world.
Without a doubt, London is a person with a big heart. She cares about her friends but at the same time, she doesn’t feel like she wants to openly express herself. When she gradually pieces together the fragments of what her dreams really mean, she knows she must do something wise but being a teenager with a quick temper, it’s not easy for her to behave in a disciplined and diplomatic manner. I wouldn’t say I dislike her but she is not exactly a character that I feel I could easily connect with.
The situation leading to the conclusion of this installment is dire and thrilling but the ending? It leaves me with a number of burning questions unanswered. While I’m glad I took the time to read the book, I felt dissatisfied as I would probably not be able to feel resolved until the next book comes out! :(
After finishing the book and giving it some thoughts, I’d say Otherborn is a multi-faceted story that is entertaining, different and thought-provoking. With a tone that is dark, corrupted and miserable, it reveals to us a dystopian world that is the result of a plethora of lies stemming from indulgence, superficiality, selfishness and greed. Although I didn’t feel as connected with the characters as I’d like, I appreciate the uniqueness of how dreams can bring out an astral/ metaphysical flavor to the story. If you’ve never read a dystopian novel with an astral/ metaphysical aspect, you may want to look this one up and add it to your to-read list. I had a good time reading it and I hope you will too.
--
Originally posted on Leisure Reads.
A copy of the book was provided by publisher for review purposes.
February 13, 2013
I'm fascinated with dreams, which are considered New, and therefore illegal in OTHERBORN. Silver handled the unique premise of outlawing New in a way that enriched Capital City where the main character, London lives. London has a brash and feisty personality, which is balanced out by her resolute and kind Otherborn counterpart. I loved the contrast between London's bleak reality and her Otherborn's lush Midplane. I found most of the characters likable and was impressed by the extent of loyalty between London and her crew. Silver built the right amount of conflict and tension to draw readers into her dystopian world and created characters who are leery, yet determined to embrace New.
October 9, 2014
I didn't enjoy this one unfortuantely.
The characters weren't awful, but i cant say that i liked them.
The story was quite hard to follow, and at points i had no idea what was happening. When i did know what was going on, i wasn't enjoying it, and i just wanted the book to hurry up and end.
I'm defiantly not going to continue with the series.
Overall, Hard to follow, and couldn't keep me interested.
The characters weren't awful, but i cant say that i liked them.
The story was quite hard to follow, and at points i had no idea what was happening. When i did know what was going on, i wasn't enjoying it, and i just wanted the book to hurry up and end.
I'm defiantly not going to continue with the series.
Overall, Hard to follow, and couldn't keep me interested.
April 7, 2013
As seen on my blog:
Think: Dystopian. About four or five generations into the future. The world as you know it is in disarray, and nothing new, or seemingly new, is allowed, or accepted anymore. Now, imagine you, and four of your closest friends have begun to dream at night, of places and people that don't exist in the least within your waking world. You all know what kind of trouble telling that secret could get you in. You all know very well, because someone begins to kill off the people in your life who had an idea of what you were hiding.
The premise for Otherborn didn't feel completely new to me, but it definitely brought some new ideas to the Dystopian table. I know it's become the trend of the genre to not give an actual date to the time in the story line, but I wish that this one had. I wanted to know exactly how far in the future Otherborn took place in; I wanted to connect it to the objects, moments, and structures that were mentioned in the book as existing "pre-crisis." Despite this, the world-building was present in a big way, it was easy enough for me to learn about the new practices, and surroundings that existed in this new time.
The main characters: London, Rye, Kim, Zen and Avery, were refreshingly created outside of the mold. They were diverse, and each came with back stories, and personality traits, that were enjoyable to learn about. London played the role of leader, and rightly so. Her voice was confident, and her demeanor strong, yet with just enough flaw to allow us to relate to her on one level or another. I was definitely intrigued by the introduction of her alternate, dream-state character/"Other", who went by the name "Si-Dah". Her dream world, and waking world, were such stark contrasts, I felt like I was being given the pleasure of reading two different books. Anna Silver crafted stunning, and lush imagery, and was successful in making me feel like I was physically part of the story line.
The second half of Otherborn is definitely where it picks up speed-where we're introduced to the "outside" characters that add fuel to the content. I was instantly drawn to Tora, and can't wait to hear more of her story in the next books. Once outside of the city walls, this book began to feel real, and quickly fell into the category that Divergent belongs to-scenery wise. It was a story of despair and hope, of intermingling the two to create a feeling of urgency, and a need to cheer the characters on as they discover a way to fight the "man," to reclaim a world that they had only heard existed before.
You definitely won't want to miss the ending on this one either. It was PACKED full of "I-NEED-to-read-the-next-book-NOW!" feelings.
Recommended for: Fans of Dystopians, paranormal, mystery, adventure, and the Divergent series.
----------
*DISCLAIMER* I received this book as an ecopy from the author, in order to participate in the blog tour.
Think: Dystopian. About four or five generations into the future. The world as you know it is in disarray, and nothing new, or seemingly new, is allowed, or accepted anymore. Now, imagine you, and four of your closest friends have begun to dream at night, of places and people that don't exist in the least within your waking world. You all know what kind of trouble telling that secret could get you in. You all know very well, because someone begins to kill off the people in your life who had an idea of what you were hiding.
The premise for Otherborn didn't feel completely new to me, but it definitely brought some new ideas to the Dystopian table. I know it's become the trend of the genre to not give an actual date to the time in the story line, but I wish that this one had. I wanted to know exactly how far in the future Otherborn took place in; I wanted to connect it to the objects, moments, and structures that were mentioned in the book as existing "pre-crisis." Despite this, the world-building was present in a big way, it was easy enough for me to learn about the new practices, and surroundings that existed in this new time.
The main characters: London, Rye, Kim, Zen and Avery, were refreshingly created outside of the mold. They were diverse, and each came with back stories, and personality traits, that were enjoyable to learn about. London played the role of leader, and rightly so. Her voice was confident, and her demeanor strong, yet with just enough flaw to allow us to relate to her on one level or another. I was definitely intrigued by the introduction of her alternate, dream-state character/"Other", who went by the name "Si-Dah". Her dream world, and waking world, were such stark contrasts, I felt like I was being given the pleasure of reading two different books. Anna Silver crafted stunning, and lush imagery, and was successful in making me feel like I was physically part of the story line.
The second half of Otherborn is definitely where it picks up speed-where we're introduced to the "outside" characters that add fuel to the content. I was instantly drawn to Tora, and can't wait to hear more of her story in the next books. Once outside of the city walls, this book began to feel real, and quickly fell into the category that Divergent belongs to-scenery wise. It was a story of despair and hope, of intermingling the two to create a feeling of urgency, and a need to cheer the characters on as they discover a way to fight the "man," to reclaim a world that they had only heard existed before.
You definitely won't want to miss the ending on this one either. It was PACKED full of "I-NEED-to-read-the-next-book-NOW!" feelings.
Recommended for: Fans of Dystopians, paranormal, mystery, adventure, and the Divergent series.
----------
*DISCLAIMER* I received this book as an ecopy from the author, in order to participate in the blog tour.
April 20, 2013
"Now you lay your head to sleep, pray to God your life you keep. To steal your dreams, your head we'll take, and leave you dead before you wake."
If I had to pick one type of book that I tend to shy away from and hardly ever read it would be dystopian. And to be honest, I'm not quite sure why because the few that I've read I really, really loved. And Otherborn turned out to be another wonderful surprise.
"There hasn't been anything New since right after the Energy Crisis. I mean, that's generations ago. Not a note, not a song. Not a stitch, not a stroke, not a word. Nothin'. I don't know how ya did it and I don't care. I just know that it's dangerous. People aren't ready for that."
To live in a world where nothing new is allowed, there is no creativity and everyone's sleep is dreamless. This is the life that faces London and her group of friends on a daily basis. London and her friends are in a band and London goes completely against what is allowed and creates a new song. But that is not all, London dreams. And so do her bandmates. After one of London's friends go missing the group set out on a trek to find her. What follows is a journey filled with action, fear, betrayal, hurt and self discovery.
Otherborn took me a little while to get into but once I had a grasp of what was going on and how the characters fit together it really picked up and had me gripped by the story that was unfolding.
London is strong and quick to speak her mind. She is a bit rough around the edges and there were times that she exasperated me. But there's also a layer of vulnerability to her which I found endearing. As the book went on I found that I really began to like her more and more. She was more or less the leader of her little group of friends and so she carried a lot on her young shoulders.
The flesh of his mouth was a soft, easy comfort, like balm for the raw heart.
It wasn't her first kiss, but it was the first one that mattered.
In this bleak world that they live in there was the brightness of love and romance which I think shone through so brightly because of the dreary world in which they live. London and Rye had snatches of time together but it was their care and concern for each other that did it for me. Their's wasn't a gushy, gooey love, in fact there were times when they were quite snappy with each other. And though they danced around how they each felt they were there for each other when it counted.
As for the other characters, while they all had their place in the story, it was Tora who stood out the most. At first, I didn't like her. At all!!! I saw her as a threat to something that I had my heart set on happening, but she comes through time and time again!!! A truly awesome character!!
And then there were things that blew me away!! The discovery that is made in search of their friend. The horrible thing that occurs after that. (All very cryptic I know, but I don't want to spoil the story). And then the ending... I kept trying to make my ereader turn another page, but there were no more pages!!! NO WAY!!!! Please let me not have to wait too long to find out what happens next!!!
The whole concept of the storyline was new and original to me and I loved it and the way it was written. Although as I said, I haven't read a great deal of Dystopian, Otherborn was definitely up there as one of the best!!
4.5/5 Stars!!
If I had to pick one type of book that I tend to shy away from and hardly ever read it would be dystopian. And to be honest, I'm not quite sure why because the few that I've read I really, really loved. And Otherborn turned out to be another wonderful surprise.
"There hasn't been anything New since right after the Energy Crisis. I mean, that's generations ago. Not a note, not a song. Not a stitch, not a stroke, not a word. Nothin'. I don't know how ya did it and I don't care. I just know that it's dangerous. People aren't ready for that."
To live in a world where nothing new is allowed, there is no creativity and everyone's sleep is dreamless. This is the life that faces London and her group of friends on a daily basis. London and her friends are in a band and London goes completely against what is allowed and creates a new song. But that is not all, London dreams. And so do her bandmates. After one of London's friends go missing the group set out on a trek to find her. What follows is a journey filled with action, fear, betrayal, hurt and self discovery.
Otherborn took me a little while to get into but once I had a grasp of what was going on and how the characters fit together it really picked up and had me gripped by the story that was unfolding.
London is strong and quick to speak her mind. She is a bit rough around the edges and there were times that she exasperated me. But there's also a layer of vulnerability to her which I found endearing. As the book went on I found that I really began to like her more and more. She was more or less the leader of her little group of friends and so she carried a lot on her young shoulders.
The flesh of his mouth was a soft, easy comfort, like balm for the raw heart.
It wasn't her first kiss, but it was the first one that mattered.
In this bleak world that they live in there was the brightness of love and romance which I think shone through so brightly because of the dreary world in which they live. London and Rye had snatches of time together but it was their care and concern for each other that did it for me. Their's wasn't a gushy, gooey love, in fact there were times when they were quite snappy with each other. And though they danced around how they each felt they were there for each other when it counted.
As for the other characters, while they all had their place in the story, it was Tora who stood out the most. At first, I didn't like her. At all!!! I saw her as a threat to something that I had my heart set on happening, but she comes through time and time again!!! A truly awesome character!!
And then there were things that blew me away!! The discovery that is made in search of their friend. The horrible thing that occurs after that. (All very cryptic I know, but I don't want to spoil the story). And then the ending... I kept trying to make my ereader turn another page, but there were no more pages!!! NO WAY!!!! Please let me not have to wait too long to find out what happens next!!!
The whole concept of the storyline was new and original to me and I loved it and the way it was written. Although as I said, I haven't read a great deal of Dystopian, Otherborn was definitely up there as one of the best!!
4.5/5 Stars!!
April 9, 2013
For more reviews visit: http://livinginabookworld.blogspot.gr
This well-written book, called Otherborn, is a dystopian story that will rock your world! A fascinating plot, great characters and a love story is all it takes to love Otherborn. But let’s start from the beginning.
The main characters are London, a girl who smokes, has no father and a mother with a drinking problem, sings, plays the guitar and writes songs, a thing so beautiful and creative that makes her dangerous.
Rye is London's best-friend, her supporter, her biggest fan and the love of his life. Sounds pretty serious, but it is. They'd been through a lot before they shared their first kiss.
Zen is the adventurous one. Why? Because when Avery, his friend and the girl he loves, disappears, he's the first to go look for her. But he won't be alone, because the rest of the gang, including shy Kim, will go with him. Although, that's not the whole band. There was one last member, Degan, who was murdered in the beginning of the story.
“He swallowed back the things he wanted to tell her: how much he'd missed her, how scared he had been, that he thought he'd lost her for good, that he loved her..”
Apart from Avery, the other two things that brought them together is music, they have formed a band called Otherborn, of course, and the ability to dream. That's right. Dream. Something that is second nature to us, is so new to them.
In their dreams, they see their Otherborn. London's Otherborn is Si’dah, Rye’s is Roanyk, Kim’s is Atel, Zen’s is Geode, Degan’s is Hantu and then there's Avery who is missing. This is where it gets tricky, so let me explain. Si’dah, Roanyk, Atel, Geode, Avery and Hantu lived in their own world but they decided to sacrifice their lives, so that they could help their Other, London, Rye, Zen, Kim, Degan and Avery to improve their world. To start fresh after the Energy Crisis that downgraded their world. That's why they visit them in their dreams.
That's also what makes them unique and dangerous to the Tycoons, the people who took over after the Energy Crisis. And so they leave Capital City behind in order to find Avery. During their journey they meet Outroaders, former Capital City citizens and along them they get to know Tora, a young girl who is a Seer, meaning that she has the Sight, the ability to see things before they actually happen. Did they randomly meet or is she supposed to help them? And what about the murderer who is after them? Is Avery alive or has the murdered killed her? And in all this, there is a traitor as well. Who could it be? Find out by reading Otherborn by Anna Silver.
This well-written book, called Otherborn, is a dystopian story that will rock your world! A fascinating plot, great characters and a love story is all it takes to love Otherborn. But let’s start from the beginning.
The main characters are London, a girl who smokes, has no father and a mother with a drinking problem, sings, plays the guitar and writes songs, a thing so beautiful and creative that makes her dangerous.
Rye is London's best-friend, her supporter, her biggest fan and the love of his life. Sounds pretty serious, but it is. They'd been through a lot before they shared their first kiss.
Zen is the adventurous one. Why? Because when Avery, his friend and the girl he loves, disappears, he's the first to go look for her. But he won't be alone, because the rest of the gang, including shy Kim, will go with him. Although, that's not the whole band. There was one last member, Degan, who was murdered in the beginning of the story.
“He swallowed back the things he wanted to tell her: how much he'd missed her, how scared he had been, that he thought he'd lost her for good, that he loved her..”
Apart from Avery, the other two things that brought them together is music, they have formed a band called Otherborn, of course, and the ability to dream. That's right. Dream. Something that is second nature to us, is so new to them.
In their dreams, they see their Otherborn. London's Otherborn is Si’dah, Rye’s is Roanyk, Kim’s is Atel, Zen’s is Geode, Degan’s is Hantu and then there's Avery who is missing. This is where it gets tricky, so let me explain. Si’dah, Roanyk, Atel, Geode, Avery and Hantu lived in their own world but they decided to sacrifice their lives, so that they could help their Other, London, Rye, Zen, Kim, Degan and Avery to improve their world. To start fresh after the Energy Crisis that downgraded their world. That's why they visit them in their dreams.
That's also what makes them unique and dangerous to the Tycoons, the people who took over after the Energy Crisis. And so they leave Capital City behind in order to find Avery. During their journey they meet Outroaders, former Capital City citizens and along them they get to know Tora, a young girl who is a Seer, meaning that she has the Sight, the ability to see things before they actually happen. Did they randomly meet or is she supposed to help them? And what about the murderer who is after them? Is Avery alive or has the murdered killed her? And in all this, there is a traitor as well. Who could it be? Find out by reading Otherborn by Anna Silver.
April 10, 2013
What a book! I have fallen in love with Otherborn. This isn’t a perfect dystopian novel. But there is just something that makes my adrenaline pump, but also makes me want to fall in a deep sleep and dream whenever I read a page of this book about a terrible world and strange dreams.
The originality that Otherborn contains quite obvious. I will bet you any amount of money that you will be amazed by the premise. The creativity that author’s have always put me in a state of awe and Anna Silver’s creativity is no different from many other great authors.
The atmosphere in Otherborn is fantastic. Sometimes I could have sworn that the smell of blood was wafting into my room. Or that tendrils of darkness were creeping under my door. If what I just described doesn’t seem like a well made atmosphere to you then I don’t know what is. Otherborn isn’t horror, but it was certainly able to send shivers down my spine.
The word prickly describes London well, I think. She was a bit hard to like at first. But prickly isn’t the only word that describes her. London is a capable, tough, hardened protagonist who will etch herself into your mind and never leave.
The side characters were also well written. They are impossible to categorize. Their personalities don’t shine as bright as London’s, but they would still be forces to be reckoned if they were to be compared to side characters in other stories.
Silver is a master story teller, I believe. And like all great story tellers she has a way with handling words. She writes a first-person narration in a way that flows wonderfully well. And the way she builds a world is skillful and fascinating.
A person who is a fan of dystopian will want to know if the dystopian world is explained in a believable way, yes? To answer that question I will say that there is a little bit of explaining, but there are a more detailed needed, I believe. I thought that the backstory was a little bit lacking. Hopefully this teensy flaw is fixed in the later installments.
The ending is the type of ending that will have you craving for more. I am in desperate want for the next book and I am sure that you will, too if you ever read this amazing book.
Otherborn is not one of the better dystopian novels I have read. It is one of the best dystopian novels I have read. Now that statement may make you raise an eyebrow, but I assure you that this really is the best kind of dystopian for me. Creepy and unsettling are my favorite kind of vibes to get from a book after all!
The originality that Otherborn contains quite obvious. I will bet you any amount of money that you will be amazed by the premise. The creativity that author’s have always put me in a state of awe and Anna Silver’s creativity is no different from many other great authors.
The atmosphere in Otherborn is fantastic. Sometimes I could have sworn that the smell of blood was wafting into my room. Or that tendrils of darkness were creeping under my door. If what I just described doesn’t seem like a well made atmosphere to you then I don’t know what is. Otherborn isn’t horror, but it was certainly able to send shivers down my spine.
The word prickly describes London well, I think. She was a bit hard to like at first. But prickly isn’t the only word that describes her. London is a capable, tough, hardened protagonist who will etch herself into your mind and never leave.
The side characters were also well written. They are impossible to categorize. Their personalities don’t shine as bright as London’s, but they would still be forces to be reckoned if they were to be compared to side characters in other stories.
Silver is a master story teller, I believe. And like all great story tellers she has a way with handling words. She writes a first-person narration in a way that flows wonderfully well. And the way she builds a world is skillful and fascinating.
A person who is a fan of dystopian will want to know if the dystopian world is explained in a believable way, yes? To answer that question I will say that there is a little bit of explaining, but there are a more detailed needed, I believe. I thought that the backstory was a little bit lacking. Hopefully this teensy flaw is fixed in the later installments.
The ending is the type of ending that will have you craving for more. I am in desperate want for the next book and I am sure that you will, too if you ever read this amazing book.
Otherborn is not one of the better dystopian novels I have read. It is one of the best dystopian novels I have read. Now that statement may make you raise an eyebrow, but I assure you that this really is the best kind of dystopian for me. Creepy and unsettling are my favorite kind of vibes to get from a book after all!
April 4, 2013
At a time when young adult fiction is overrun with dystopian themes that are often only mediocre at best, Otherborn is kind of remarkable, especially for a debut author. I'm a big fan of dystopian works and can say I even enjoy some of the less-than-stellar attempts but this one introduces some really fresh concepts.
Imagine a world in which dreaming is a thing of the past. Actually, you probably wouldn't be able to imagine it if such a world existed because, after all, imagination and dreams are interwoven with each other, aren't they? Most people live in poverty, barely managing to survive through whatever means possible while the ruling class thrives, and creating anything new is an invitation to disaster . Then a girl named London and her friends begin to dream and they discover that things are not at all as they seem---or as they've been led to believe.
London is a character with many facets, at turns strong and childish, thoughtful and selfish, intelligent and obtuse, driven and obsessed. In other words, she's a teenager with signs of maturity as well as self-absorption and all of that makes her very appealing but, at the same time, frequently annoying. Other characters did not make much of an impression on me but I didn't dislike them.
When it comes to worldbuilding, Ms. Silver has some good ideas but we don't learn enough in this first of a series to become comfortable with the setting and too many variables come into play. I found myself often pulled out of the story while I tried to really understand what was going on and, while that can be a forceful encouragement to keep reading, I actually found it distracting at times. The creation of an imaginary world is, to my way of thinking, critical to the success of any dystopian story and the author that can bring the reader into that world without answering all possible questions is a very talented writer. I don't want to know everything in the first book of a series but this one left me a little too puzzled.
Otherborn offers a lot of promise and delivers on much of it despite its shortcomings. Anna Silver is an author I'm glad to have "discovered" and I'll want to hear more from her, especially about London and her life.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, April 2013.
Imagine a world in which dreaming is a thing of the past. Actually, you probably wouldn't be able to imagine it if such a world existed because, after all, imagination and dreams are interwoven with each other, aren't they? Most people live in poverty, barely managing to survive through whatever means possible while the ruling class thrives, and creating anything new is an invitation to disaster . Then a girl named London and her friends begin to dream and they discover that things are not at all as they seem---or as they've been led to believe.
London is a character with many facets, at turns strong and childish, thoughtful and selfish, intelligent and obtuse, driven and obsessed. In other words, she's a teenager with signs of maturity as well as self-absorption and all of that makes her very appealing but, at the same time, frequently annoying. Other characters did not make much of an impression on me but I didn't dislike them.
When it comes to worldbuilding, Ms. Silver has some good ideas but we don't learn enough in this first of a series to become comfortable with the setting and too many variables come into play. I found myself often pulled out of the story while I tried to really understand what was going on and, while that can be a forceful encouragement to keep reading, I actually found it distracting at times. The creation of an imaginary world is, to my way of thinking, critical to the success of any dystopian story and the author that can bring the reader into that world without answering all possible questions is a very talented writer. I don't want to know everything in the first book of a series but this one left me a little too puzzled.
Otherborn offers a lot of promise and delivers on much of it despite its shortcomings. Anna Silver is an author I'm glad to have "discovered" and I'll want to hear more from her, especially about London and her life.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, April 2013.
April 9, 2013
London is such a real character. There are so many books out there where the MC conquers the world without even a moment's hesitation or rational fear. What struck me about Otherborn is that all of the characters were so beautifully flawed and real. They weren't going to go into something without fear but they were going to do it anyways, not because they were driven by some impenetrable moral force but because it was what needed to be done and they knew it.
Anther refreshing aspect of this novel was that there was always something going on that kept you thinking and wondering what would happen next. Even if you had an idea of what might be coming you would sit there arguing with yourself ("Nah, she wouldn't do that... OMG... OMG THAT JUST HAPPENED..." *insert look of extreme shock that lead fiancé to ask what on earth I was reading*). I don't normally fan-girl over a novel unless it is an author I have been following since I was very young but Otherborn had me fan-girling and I can hardly wait to see what happens next!
I have a few very select pet peeves when it comes to writing, they are personal and not literary but this dealt with three of them in some of the beginning chapters (abundant smoking, cutting and specific name usage). Now, normally just dealing with one of them with specific phrasing would make me set aside a book and pretend it didn't exist while it slipped away into the nether but with Otherborn I couldn't bring myself to look away from the wonderfully fluid writing quality so decided to keep reading and I am thrilled that I did. I ended up going on an amazing, imaginative and unique thrill ride that has left me waiting breathlessly for the next book in the series and a big fan of Anna Silver.
This is an author you will want to be on the lookout for.
I for one plan on reading anything and everything else she releases, which for me is saying a lot. I can without reservations say that she will end up making it onto my top 10 authors of 2013 list.
From my blog: www.EmmaMichaels.com
Anther refreshing aspect of this novel was that there was always something going on that kept you thinking and wondering what would happen next. Even if you had an idea of what might be coming you would sit there arguing with yourself ("Nah, she wouldn't do that... OMG... OMG THAT JUST HAPPENED..." *insert look of extreme shock that lead fiancé to ask what on earth I was reading*). I don't normally fan-girl over a novel unless it is an author I have been following since I was very young but Otherborn had me fan-girling and I can hardly wait to see what happens next!
I have a few very select pet peeves when it comes to writing, they are personal and not literary but this dealt with three of them in some of the beginning chapters (abundant smoking, cutting and specific name usage). Now, normally just dealing with one of them with specific phrasing would make me set aside a book and pretend it didn't exist while it slipped away into the nether but with Otherborn I couldn't bring myself to look away from the wonderfully fluid writing quality so decided to keep reading and I am thrilled that I did. I ended up going on an amazing, imaginative and unique thrill ride that has left me waiting breathlessly for the next book in the series and a big fan of Anna Silver.
This is an author you will want to be on the lookout for.
I for one plan on reading anything and everything else she releases, which for me is saying a lot. I can without reservations say that she will end up making it onto my top 10 authors of 2013 list.
From my blog: www.EmmaMichaels.com
April 8, 2013
Otherborn is a unique concept in a book. This landscape is that of a world following the Energy Crisis. A world where your life is defined by a government issued assignment (label). And access to technical things - cell phones, netbooks, even music - is regulated by licenses and your level in society. Oil and gas are strictly controlled and only the wealthy or those favored by the wealthy can afford it. In Capital City, everything is reprocessed. Walls enclose all inhabitants and no one is allowed outside the city walls. Everyone and everything is stagnant and regulated. There is never anything New - no innovation or creativity. No one dreams. And the Tycoons rule everything.
London and her friends, however, do dream. Their dreams seem like memories and as they found one another, the group dubbed themselves Otherborn.
London, Rye, Kim, Zen, and Avery all have alter-egos when they dream. Figuring out the why behind that is part of the plot. And as that is revealed to the characters, the bigger picture becomes clearer. The Otherborn leave Capital City after the deaths of two friends and the disappearance of a third. They leave to search for their missing friend in this search leads them to one discovery after another.
Otherborn got off to a little bit of a rocky start for me. It was the world building that I had trouble with. But once the initial foundation was laid, it flowed smoothly. And the story captivated me. I enjoyed watching the characters follow their paths and the interactions between them. I especially liked the closeness between London and Rye and how it was tested over the course of the book. There were times when London irritated me. But I was delighted to see her character growth and her embrace of her Other.
This is a great start to the series. Since the world building is complete and I understand the Others' purpose, I expect the next installment to be thrilling. I'm excited for what comes next in London and her friends' quest to save our world.
London and her friends, however, do dream. Their dreams seem like memories and as they found one another, the group dubbed themselves Otherborn.
London, Rye, Kim, Zen, and Avery all have alter-egos when they dream. Figuring out the why behind that is part of the plot. And as that is revealed to the characters, the bigger picture becomes clearer. The Otherborn leave Capital City after the deaths of two friends and the disappearance of a third. They leave to search for their missing friend in this search leads them to one discovery after another.
Otherborn got off to a little bit of a rocky start for me. It was the world building that I had trouble with. But once the initial foundation was laid, it flowed smoothly. And the story captivated me. I enjoyed watching the characters follow their paths and the interactions between them. I especially liked the closeness between London and Rye and how it was tested over the course of the book. There were times when London irritated me. But I was delighted to see her character growth and her embrace of her Other.
This is a great start to the series. Since the world building is complete and I understand the Others' purpose, I expect the next installment to be thrilling. I'm excited for what comes next in London and her friends' quest to save our world.
August 13, 2016
''Otherborn'' was beyond my expectations and I totally love it<3 When I started it I was a little bit bored, but now I ended up staying all the night up finishing it. Crazy, huh?
London and her friends -Zen, Rye, Avery and Kim- are special, they are the Otherborns. They can dream in a world in which nobody else can. Soon, two of their friends are murdered and Avery is ''kidnapped''. Just because of her they leave the Capital City to find her. But does Avery worth the effort? In fact, she is their loyal friend, or not?
The teenagers will discover a new world where the Tycoons are in command and the Outroads are gathered in camps. In one camp they meet Tora, a Seer. They don't how much this girl will help them. Horrible things will happen because of the Tycoons, even London provokes some damages - and all five (London, Rye, Zen, Kim and Tora) must fight for their lives.
I must confess I hated Tora at the beginning. Why? Because she liked Rye, and Rye was in love ♥ with London. Even though he never said that to her. He and London shared only one kiss and that's all. I wanted see more romance between R&L. I wanted to kill him so many times because even when London told him what she really felt about his sorry ass (and after what had happened with Tora) he didn't do anything. I mean, boy, tell her that you love her, that you want her! Rye was a nice guy and I think he didn't deserve what the author had done with him at the ending. That's why I need book two ASAP! Besides these three crucial characters, the rest of them were good. I have to say I was very surprised to find out what a bitch Avery can be. I wanted to rip her head off. How could she have done that to Zen, to everybody? I'm pretty sure she will piss me off too in the next volume.
Overall, I highly recommend you this book! It's a very good dystopian with action, suspence and a little bit of romance. Anna Silver is one of the debut authors who already amazed my with their talent in 2013! Plus the cover is drop dead gorgeous<3 So go, buy it, read it & love it ♥
London and her friends -Zen, Rye, Avery and Kim- are special, they are the Otherborns. They can dream in a world in which nobody else can. Soon, two of their friends are murdered and Avery is ''kidnapped''. Just because of her they leave the Capital City to find her. But does Avery worth the effort? In fact, she is their loyal friend, or not?
The teenagers will discover a new world where the Tycoons are in command and the Outroads are gathered in camps. In one camp they meet Tora, a Seer. They don't how much this girl will help them. Horrible things will happen because of the Tycoons, even London provokes some damages - and all five (London, Rye, Zen, Kim and Tora) must fight for their lives.
I must confess I hated Tora at the beginning. Why? Because she liked Rye, and Rye was in love ♥ with London. Even though he never said that to her. He and London shared only one kiss and that's all. I wanted see more romance between R&L. I wanted to kill him so many times because even when London told him what she really felt about his sorry ass (and after what had happened with Tora) he didn't do anything. I mean, boy, tell her that you love her, that you want her! Rye was a nice guy and I think he didn't deserve what the author had done with him at the ending. That's why I need book two ASAP! Besides these three crucial characters, the rest of them were good. I have to say I was very surprised to find out what a bitch Avery can be. I wanted to rip her head off. How could she have done that to Zen, to everybody? I'm pretty sure she will piss me off too in the next volume.
Overall, I highly recommend you this book! It's a very good dystopian with action, suspence and a little bit of romance. Anna Silver is one of the debut authors who already amazed my with their talent in 2013! Plus the cover is drop dead gorgeous<3 So go, buy it, read it & love it ♥
January 8, 2013
I really love dystopian books so when I was approached to review this one, I was beyond excited! It sounded so interesting and different. A place where anything "New" was banned? A heroine who was willing to break the rules? Count me in.
I loved the characters. London was a really great protagonist. She wasn't afraid of breaking the rules and she never let anyone get the better of her. At the same time, she cared deeply for her friends and would do almost anything for them - even if it meant risking her own safety. She was not lacking some flaws though. Sometimes she was just so rash and stubborn. She went into things without fully thinking them through and that cost her more than once. I also really liked the supporting characters like Rye and Tora. Rye was very helpful throughout the story but I felt like we barely got to know him! I would like to learn more about him in the next books. Particularly how he is when he's not around London. Tora - though I really didn't like her at first - quickly won me over. I think she is going to be really valuable in the upcoming books and form a close bond with London.
The plot was a lot of fun, though a little slow at first. Fortunately, it quickly picked up as we delved deeper into the story. I enjoyed following London and the rest of her friends as they went on their adventure. They all showed a lot of strength and loyalty toward each other and it was so nice to find a group of characters so dedicated and willing to give up the things they loved to help the others.
The ending . . . man, I had really not seen that coming. What a twist!! I'm excited to see where the author takes things in the next books. I'm already dying to find out what is in store for London and the gang next!
*An ARC was provided by Sapphire Star Publishing for review purposes. Thank you!
For more reviews, visit my blog Wonderland's Reader!
I loved the characters. London was a really great protagonist. She wasn't afraid of breaking the rules and she never let anyone get the better of her. At the same time, she cared deeply for her friends and would do almost anything for them - even if it meant risking her own safety. She was not lacking some flaws though. Sometimes she was just so rash and stubborn. She went into things without fully thinking them through and that cost her more than once. I also really liked the supporting characters like Rye and Tora. Rye was very helpful throughout the story but I felt like we barely got to know him! I would like to learn more about him in the next books. Particularly how he is when he's not around London. Tora - though I really didn't like her at first - quickly won me over. I think she is going to be really valuable in the upcoming books and form a close bond with London.
The plot was a lot of fun, though a little slow at first. Fortunately, it quickly picked up as we delved deeper into the story. I enjoyed following London and the rest of her friends as they went on their adventure. They all showed a lot of strength and loyalty toward each other and it was so nice to find a group of characters so dedicated and willing to give up the things they loved to help the others.
The ending . . . man, I had really not seen that coming. What a twist!! I'm excited to see where the author takes things in the next books. I'm already dying to find out what is in store for London and the gang next!
*An ARC was provided by Sapphire Star Publishing for review purposes. Thank you!
For more reviews, visit my blog Wonderland's Reader!
June 29, 2013
Otherborn is a unique story. It definitely is not what I expected. The world building is subtle and slow, where we do not learn all the rules right away. The characters are complicated and their “Others” drive the story as much as their main selves, maybe even more so. The story is about loyalty, and finding each other no matter the cost, but it is also about betrayal and weakness as well as strength.
London lives in a world where nothing is new, in fact new is illegal. Everything is rationed out inside the city walls, and no one dreams. Well, London and her friends dream, and they only share their secret with a select trusted few. Then someone who knows their secret and a member of their group is murdered, and a friend disappears. They escape from the city walls to attempt to rescue their friend while hiding from whoever is after them. Along the way they learn so much about the world they thought they knew, and about themselves.
Their Others made a great sacrifice to be connected to London and her group. They know each other through their dreams and their Others help them in their search and in their escape. When they finally find their friend, things are not what they expect and a few devastating developments take place. They learn just how naïve they were living inside the city walls.
I thought it was pretty cool that the story takes place in a futuristic Houston, and the characters are running along “the Ten”. A lot of familiar areas get described here so that added to my enjoyment of the story.
London lives in a world where nothing is new, in fact new is illegal. Everything is rationed out inside the city walls, and no one dreams. Well, London and her friends dream, and they only share their secret with a select trusted few. Then someone who knows their secret and a member of their group is murdered, and a friend disappears. They escape from the city walls to attempt to rescue their friend while hiding from whoever is after them. Along the way they learn so much about the world they thought they knew, and about themselves.
Their Others made a great sacrifice to be connected to London and her group. They know each other through their dreams and their Others help them in their search and in their escape. When they finally find their friend, things are not what they expect and a few devastating developments take place. They learn just how naïve they were living inside the city walls.
I thought it was pretty cool that the story takes place in a futuristic Houston, and the characters are running along “the Ten”. A lot of familiar areas get described here so that added to my enjoyment of the story.
May 27, 2013
*****I received a free copy in exchange of my honest review.
Otherborn series is my newest favorite dystopian series!yay!
Honestly I did have a hard time reading and connecting with this book at first but after a couple of chapter, I can say that I was hooked!
This is definitely a dystopian with a twist..even though it does have the familiar elements we all find in other dystopian series, it manages to be unique and exciting. The story keeps on getting better as the story progresses, surprise after surprise...you won't really know what will happens next.
London, the main character in the story is a streetwise girl that appears to be strong outside but vulnerable inside, it's not hard to connect with her..with her wanting to appear strong in front of her friends, giving them hope and guidance..I find myself liking her and hating Tori when she appears to be a competition.. back-off girl! lol. Rye, London's I'm-not-so-sure-boyfriend is a very likable guy because he seems to be really protective of London, I love how he protects London in anyway he can and hopefully..we'll see more of London and Rye's moments in the next book.
Otherborn is an awesome dystopian book and I'm so ready to read the next one. I'm so excited about the "Others", there is so much we need to know about them and how and when they will help London and friends lol.
I want to give this 5 awesome stars but since they way it ended kills me..I'm only giving it 4.9.
Otherborn series is my newest favorite dystopian series!yay!
Honestly I did have a hard time reading and connecting with this book at first but after a couple of chapter, I can say that I was hooked!
This is definitely a dystopian with a twist..even though it does have the familiar elements we all find in other dystopian series, it manages to be unique and exciting. The story keeps on getting better as the story progresses, surprise after surprise...you won't really know what will happens next.
London, the main character in the story is a streetwise girl that appears to be strong outside but vulnerable inside, it's not hard to connect with her..with her wanting to appear strong in front of her friends, giving them hope and guidance..I find myself liking her and hating Tori when she appears to be a competition.. back-off girl! lol. Rye, London's I'm-not-so-sure-boyfriend is a very likable guy because he seems to be really protective of London, I love how he protects London in anyway he can and hopefully..we'll see more of London and Rye's moments in the next book.
Otherborn is an awesome dystopian book and I'm so ready to read the next one. I'm so excited about the "Others", there is so much we need to know about them and how and when they will help London and friends lol.
I want to give this 5 awesome stars but since they way it ended kills me..I'm only giving it 4.9.
September 7, 2015
Otherborn tells of London, who is living in a reprocessed world. She's confined within Capital City's walls. London and her band mates begin to have dreams of themselves as beings from another world. They call themselves, Otherborn. Together, they must piece together the story of their "others", in order to save their world from a hopeless future.
I've never read anything like this. Anna Silver has created this dystopian world with great characters, and I'm hooked. Characters that jump out of the page as you're reading. I could picture every detail of the scenery in my head as I was reading.
These characters fit into this world, that Anna has created, like a glove. London and Rye, whom you can't help but love. And this is not that instalove that is so common in YA books. These two are best friends, who have grown up together. Kim, who has created his "alter ego" in the attempt to "disguise" his race. (which is insanely hilarious. British Kim?) Zen who is head over hills in love with Avery. Tora, the outroader seer, who has the knowledge to help aide them in their mission.
With the Tigerians and Tycoons hunting them down, it seems like they will have a harder time achieving their goal. One thing London knows for sure, they must reach other outroaders and camps alike, if they are to defeat the Tycoons and save their world.
I love this book and I can't wait for book two to come. Five big, bright stars for this Dystopian masterpiece!
I've never read anything like this. Anna Silver has created this dystopian world with great characters, and I'm hooked. Characters that jump out of the page as you're reading. I could picture every detail of the scenery in my head as I was reading.
These characters fit into this world, that Anna has created, like a glove. London and Rye, whom you can't help but love. And this is not that instalove that is so common in YA books. These two are best friends, who have grown up together. Kim, who has created his "alter ego" in the attempt to "disguise" his race. (which is insanely hilarious. British Kim?) Zen who is head over hills in love with Avery. Tora, the outroader seer, who has the knowledge to help aide them in their mission.
With the Tigerians and Tycoons hunting them down, it seems like they will have a harder time achieving their goal. One thing London knows for sure, they must reach other outroaders and camps alike, if they are to defeat the Tycoons and save their world.
I love this book and I can't wait for book two to come. Five big, bright stars for this Dystopian masterpiece!
March 21, 2013
Wow! What an unexpected and surprising treat Otherborn is! Young Adult, Dystopian and Science Fiction all rolled into one with a unique plot that kept me riveted for a few days.
The beginning of the book starts out a bit slow as the world-building is created and the characters introduced. London is the main protagonist, a fiesty, bullheaded teen who dreams, creates a song, which is new and therefore, illegal. But not only is she dreaming, so are a few of her friends.
Dreaming is also not allowed. But they all dream of themselves in another world. As the story flows, one of their own is kidnapped and another killed. As London and her friends try to find their missing friend, a series of events transpire and secrets are revealed that will change everything.
I loved this book! I was thoroughly engrossed from cover to cover, and was sad to see it end. I can't wait for the next book in this new series! London is a great character but I'm looking forward to watching her grow and mature. There are a few of her friends as well, that I'd like to see get their own shining moments and move into the spotlight. The characters are realistic and the world-building is memorable and unique. If you're looking for something fresh and exciting, pick up Otherborn! It's GREAT
The beginning of the book starts out a bit slow as the world-building is created and the characters introduced. London is the main protagonist, a fiesty, bullheaded teen who dreams, creates a song, which is new and therefore, illegal. But not only is she dreaming, so are a few of her friends.
Dreaming is also not allowed. But they all dream of themselves in another world. As the story flows, one of their own is kidnapped and another killed. As London and her friends try to find their missing friend, a series of events transpire and secrets are revealed that will change everything.
I loved this book! I was thoroughly engrossed from cover to cover, and was sad to see it end. I can't wait for the next book in this new series! London is a great character but I'm looking forward to watching her grow and mature. There are a few of her friends as well, that I'd like to see get their own shining moments and move into the spotlight. The characters are realistic and the world-building is memorable and unique. If you're looking for something fresh and exciting, pick up Otherborn! It's GREAT
March 7, 2014
I don't normally read this genre but I had heard great things about this book. I'm so glad I gave it a chance. It's like the Hunger Games meets the Matrix. It is completely fascinating, intriguing and riveting. It is beautifully written. I really connected with all the characters. (Also, I love all the characters' names). I think Silver is fabulous at conveying the characters' emotions without hitting the reader over the head. I really got sucked into the world of the novel. Silver keeps the mystery going throughout the book, unraveling it like a skein, and keeping you turning pages. This has a little bit of everything which I always love in a book--an original and fascinating premise; complex, relatable characters; mystery and suspense; unexpected twists and turns; a hint of romance and amazing writing. For me, the ending was heart-wrenching but don't despair--there is another book in this series and that one is even better! I cannot WAIT for the third book! I'm so excited to have discovered a new series to fall in love with!
October 10, 2014
(Source: Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk)
I was really looking forward to this book, but unfortunately I ended up disappointed.
The characters in this were okay, but I didn’t love them, London’s behaviour was crazy at times, and the way she went about things was not always good.
The storyline just confused me. Where the story started from was a very different place to where it ended, and while stuff was going on, it was very difficult to follow it! I also did not get how they could have nothing new. Nothing new? So they never took a sh*t? Because every time they did, it would have been a NEW sh*t. Where the heck did their birth control pills come from if there was nothing new? It is just impossible! Every single second is new for pity’s sake!
The ending to this was also not good, and I have to say that I was pretty annoyed by that point. Don’t think I’ll be reading the sequel.
4 out of 10.
I was really looking forward to this book, but unfortunately I ended up disappointed.
The characters in this were okay, but I didn’t love them, London’s behaviour was crazy at times, and the way she went about things was not always good.
The storyline just confused me. Where the story started from was a very different place to where it ended, and while stuff was going on, it was very difficult to follow it! I also did not get how they could have nothing new. Nothing new? So they never took a sh*t? Because every time they did, it would have been a NEW sh*t. Where the heck did their birth control pills come from if there was nothing new? It is just impossible! Every single second is new for pity’s sake!
The ending to this was also not good, and I have to say that I was pretty annoyed by that point. Don’t think I’ll be reading the sequel.
4 out of 10.
April 1, 2013
This was an interesting and different read, I’m looking forward to continuing this series.
My Rating
3.5 Obsidian, Seer, PitWorker, Neglectful mother, Moth, Midplane, Astral filled stars! For a mix of Dystopian paranormal grab this book!
Full Review to Follow...
Laters,
;)
My Rating
3.5 Obsidian, Seer, PitWorker, Neglectful mother, Moth, Midplane, Astral filled stars! For a mix of Dystopian paranormal grab this book!
Full Review to Follow...
Laters,
;)
March 28, 2013
I'm finished with Otherborn: Well, that was disappointing. I'm sorry but that ending wasn't even a cliffhanger. Guess who's not reading the sequel?! -.-
Review to come ~
Review to come ~
April 15, 2013
I went into Otherborn expecting it to be a hard read, not because of what it was about, but because I hadn't been able to focus on reading much lately. What I found was a vivid. detailed world the pulled me in with characters that made me want to keep turning the page until there were none left.
I've read in other reviews that some people found London a little rough. I can definitely see their point. She is hard headed and guards her heart stronger than her steel-toed boots guard her feet. It makes her harder to be likable but growing up in a world like London's, I'm pretty sure another girl wouldn't have survived. I actually found London to be the perfect blend of roughness and vulnerability. She is tough on the outside but she isn't without fear, without suffering. She doesn't like it, like many of us and chooses to push it away rather than dwell but again, I contribute that to the harshness of the world she grows up in. She's used to loss but she's also used to getting back up again and fighting for another day. I do think that her character leaves a lot of room for growth in the next installment which I am more than excited to see.
The other members of her ragtag band (quite literally, they play music and everything) felt flushed out too. Not as nuanced as London but they weren't the main character so I did expect them to be. The love interest, Rye, provided some softness to London's tough as nails attitude. While London preferred to act, Rye was a thinker. It does mean that he refused to act, but he thought through things more thoroughly and didn't let his temper control him the way London did . I thought he was a really good balance to her and I liked that I could feel like they had a history before we got there. I think it made their relationship feel more real. Zen, Kim and Avery all also felt unique. I loved Kim's fake British accent mixed with his family's proud Korean heritage and Zen's large frame containing an even bigger heart.
Perhaps a bigger character than even London was the place she was from. The use of a ruined world reminded me a lot of Anna Carey's Eve, in its inventiveness and ability to turn things we know on their head. Capital City felt alive from the dingy alleyway London stopped to take a smoke in behind Dogma to her hole in the wall room. Everything about the tight spaces and polluted air oozes off the page providing the perfect backdrop for a character like London. I liked seeing how the author chose to re-purpose things--the gang running the city riding around in ice cream and mail trucks and things like paper being a rare commodity. Just as vivid were the lands beyond the city.
The other thing that I found very interesting was the choice to write this novel in 3rd person. Normally, I'm not wild about 3rd person but I think it worked exceptionally well for this book because it was close enough to London to still feel relevant. We get all of London's thoughts and at the same time, we get little glimpses of how the other characters are feeling too. The writing itself was really well done. Beautiful passages describing the world, first kisses, and bringing to life everything from a long stretching road to the smell of rot oppressing the city.
There were a few passages that could be broken up to prevent info dumping but they were far and few between. I also got a little confused switching between London and her Otherborn sometimes because I couldn't tell where the real world ended and the dream began but I get the feeling that was sort of the point. I also felt that the pacing might have been a little too fast for my liking. The one time I really noticed this is when we are told about a conversation that happened instead of shown it when Avery goes missing. Even that is minor though.
Otherborn combines all my favorite things about the dystopian genre while creating a new story that manages to feel fresh. With a slew of compelling characters, an atmosphere that I believed in and a fast paced plot, Otherborn is as hard to put down as a catchy song is to get out of your head. For a book that focuses on anything New being bad, this one sure does give us something fresh. I'd definitely recommend it!
I've read in other reviews that some people found London a little rough. I can definitely see their point. She is hard headed and guards her heart stronger than her steel-toed boots guard her feet. It makes her harder to be likable but growing up in a world like London's, I'm pretty sure another girl wouldn't have survived. I actually found London to be the perfect blend of roughness and vulnerability. She is tough on the outside but she isn't without fear, without suffering. She doesn't like it, like many of us and chooses to push it away rather than dwell but again, I contribute that to the harshness of the world she grows up in. She's used to loss but she's also used to getting back up again and fighting for another day. I do think that her character leaves a lot of room for growth in the next installment which I am more than excited to see.
The other members of her ragtag band (quite literally, they play music and everything) felt flushed out too. Not as nuanced as London but they weren't the main character so I did expect them to be. The love interest, Rye, provided some softness to London's tough as nails attitude. While London preferred to act, Rye was a thinker. It does mean that he refused to act, but he thought through things more thoroughly and didn't let his temper control him the way London did . I thought he was a really good balance to her and I liked that I could feel like they had a history before we got there. I think it made their relationship feel more real. Zen, Kim and Avery all also felt unique. I loved Kim's fake British accent mixed with his family's proud Korean heritage and Zen's large frame containing an even bigger heart.
Perhaps a bigger character than even London was the place she was from. The use of a ruined world reminded me a lot of Anna Carey's Eve, in its inventiveness and ability to turn things we know on their head. Capital City felt alive from the dingy alleyway London stopped to take a smoke in behind Dogma to her hole in the wall room. Everything about the tight spaces and polluted air oozes off the page providing the perfect backdrop for a character like London. I liked seeing how the author chose to re-purpose things--the gang running the city riding around in ice cream and mail trucks and things like paper being a rare commodity. Just as vivid were the lands beyond the city.
The other thing that I found very interesting was the choice to write this novel in 3rd person. Normally, I'm not wild about 3rd person but I think it worked exceptionally well for this book because it was close enough to London to still feel relevant. We get all of London's thoughts and at the same time, we get little glimpses of how the other characters are feeling too. The writing itself was really well done. Beautiful passages describing the world, first kisses, and bringing to life everything from a long stretching road to the smell of rot oppressing the city.
There were a few passages that could be broken up to prevent info dumping but they were far and few between. I also got a little confused switching between London and her Otherborn sometimes because I couldn't tell where the real world ended and the dream began but I get the feeling that was sort of the point. I also felt that the pacing might have been a little too fast for my liking. The one time I really noticed this is when we are told about a conversation that happened instead of shown it when Avery goes missing. Even that is minor though.
Otherborn combines all my favorite things about the dystopian genre while creating a new story that manages to feel fresh. With a slew of compelling characters, an atmosphere that I believed in and a fast paced plot, Otherborn is as hard to put down as a catchy song is to get out of your head. For a book that focuses on anything New being bad, this one sure does give us something fresh. I'd definitely recommend it!
April 5, 2013
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
With multiple twists and Fantasy woven throughout, Otherborn is one of those fascinating dystopia reads that you never know what you're going to get. The author, Anna Silver, captures a reprocessed world after a global energy crisis. Greed and fear are the cause and continue to reign. Tycoons flourish while the common people are oppressed, merely surviving on ration tickets, tobacco handouts, and stolen or resold goods. Nothing is created, just reused and remade. Dreams are unheard of, are actually feared, and the "new" even more so.
When London and her friends start dreaming, they learn their dreams are not the ordinary subconscious mind activity but a passageway to another realm, a different plane, and in some unknown time. They discover who they were in another life that's not exactly their own and how their mission was to save a world that's not their own. Like I said, the premise was fascinating.
It was also suspenseful and mysterious. Too mysterious actually. The writing and description style was wonderful, but the style of world building, which uses a lot of withholding of information to keep the story mysterious, created more confusion than anything else. That's not to say the world isn't intriguing—because it is—but it was harder to connect with who and what the characters are.
What's more, when the answer is revealed, the Dystopia abruptly meets Sci-fi/High Fantasy, and I found it a bit disjointed. I couldn't grasp how the worlds connected. How or why the Otherborns came to be or were there to begin with isn't thoroughly explained. Why the people stopped dreaming in the first place is never delved into or even alluded to, either. I needed more explanations and cohesive ideas to fully appreciate all the aspects. Much of the worlds' dynamics revolved around relativity, but I found myself asking, Relative to what? and How is this relevant to now, in this world?
When it comes to Dystopia, I personally need to know how the world reached its circumstances, as well as all the boundaries, to connect and find it believable; otherwise, the universe feels too vast with a lot of black holes. But explanations and how the story's world relates to our world—a certain realism and plausibility—are personal preferences and what I expect of well-rounded Dystopias. The fact that I wasn't expecting psychological Sci-fi, which actually felt High Fantasy to me because of faeries and half-beast men, probably hindered my experience, too.
Overall, Otherborn was a good read. I liked most of the characters, even though I struggled to see them as separate yet joined beings. While I didn't find the worlds fitting seamlessly together, I was engrossed in the plot. There were quite a few twists, the action steadily picks up, and the ending ... it tore my heart, so much so that I bumped up my rating half a star. Fans of Dystopias mixed with Sci-fi and mythological Fantasy will probably want to check this one out.
Favorites lines:
*eARC provided by the author via Xpresso Book Tours. Thank you!
*Review also posted on the The LUV'NV blog.
With multiple twists and Fantasy woven throughout, Otherborn is one of those fascinating dystopia reads that you never know what you're going to get. The author, Anna Silver, captures a reprocessed world after a global energy crisis. Greed and fear are the cause and continue to reign. Tycoons flourish while the common people are oppressed, merely surviving on ration tickets, tobacco handouts, and stolen or resold goods. Nothing is created, just reused and remade. Dreams are unheard of, are actually feared, and the "new" even more so.
When London and her friends start dreaming, they learn their dreams are not the ordinary subconscious mind activity but a passageway to another realm, a different plane, and in some unknown time. They discover who they were in another life that's not exactly their own and how their mission was to save a world that's not their own. Like I said, the premise was fascinating.
It was also suspenseful and mysterious. Too mysterious actually. The writing and description style was wonderful, but the style of world building, which uses a lot of withholding of information to keep the story mysterious, created more confusion than anything else. That's not to say the world isn't intriguing—because it is—but it was harder to connect with who and what the characters are.
What's more, when the answer is revealed, the Dystopia abruptly meets Sci-fi/High Fantasy, and I found it a bit disjointed. I couldn't grasp how the worlds connected. How or why the Otherborns came to be or were there to begin with isn't thoroughly explained. Why the people stopped dreaming in the first place is never delved into or even alluded to, either. I needed more explanations and cohesive ideas to fully appreciate all the aspects. Much of the worlds' dynamics revolved around relativity, but I found myself asking, Relative to what? and How is this relevant to now, in this world?
When it comes to Dystopia, I personally need to know how the world reached its circumstances, as well as all the boundaries, to connect and find it believable; otherwise, the universe feels too vast with a lot of black holes. But explanations and how the story's world relates to our world—a certain realism and plausibility—are personal preferences and what I expect of well-rounded Dystopias. The fact that I wasn't expecting psychological Sci-fi, which actually felt High Fantasy to me because of faeries and half-beast men, probably hindered my experience, too.
Overall, Otherborn was a good read. I liked most of the characters, even though I struggled to see them as separate yet joined beings. While I didn't find the worlds fitting seamlessly together, I was engrossed in the plot. There were quite a few twists, the action steadily picks up, and the ending ... it tore my heart, so much so that I bumped up my rating half a star. Fans of Dystopias mixed with Sci-fi and mythological Fantasy will probably want to check this one out.
Favorites lines:
It wasn't her first kiss, but it was the first one that mattered.
******
He was a rebel through and through, refusing to simply dissolve into the quagmire of a cultureless American youth born with the cord already cut.
*eARC provided by the author via Xpresso Book Tours. Thank you!
*Review also posted on the The LUV'NV blog.
April 10, 2013
I got a copy of this book for a tour in exchange of an honest review.
Otherborn is the first book in a brand new Dystopian series with a fantasy feel.
I found the first book interesting and unique with the concept it brings to the table. It has been a while since I have read a Dystopian book and although I enjoy them, I have to admit that I rarely read them, so I was really glad when I got to read Otherborn.
The story takes place years in the future in a reprocessed Capital City, where people live in old hotels and banks that are now made into homes and shelters. It takes years after an Energy Crisis happens. Everything that they need is provided to them by ratios and licenses, but they can only get things in limited amounts while other things – such as technology isn't always provided and if it is – to people of higher rank. The world is basically run by Tycoons, which makes me think of filthy rich business owners today, and the Tycoons in turn run the government like puppets. They use fear to scare people behind the walls of the Capital City, and provide them with plenty of smokes that contribute to the disgusting air surrounding it.
I liked the setting, it was very different. A bit dark so far from what I can tell from the little book. People end up stealing and going behind Tycoons backs in order to get what they want. There is an underground network of Scrappers who use it like a trading post in return of other items people provide or ratios.
London is a special girl. She is a dreamer and is therefor infections. She and the group of people that got close to her, dream – which is something others of the new world don't. I never fully understood that part, and I am not sure it was fully explained why the people don't dream. Nor did I really fully understand why they weren't allowed to experience or do anything 'new.' Which is apparently another ability that these people are not suppose to have. But London and her friends (who she believes are dreaming because of her) are able to do these 'new' things.
Anyway, the world building was interesting, but it has me thinking a lot because there was a lot of mystery and a lot of unanswered questions. It is the first book of the series, and I like the foundation that was set up for the world, but it left me wanting more.
The dreams that London and her friends are having turn out to be more then just dreams. They are kind of other people that are a part of them, which is were it gets also a little confusing. They aren't actually human, they are more well, creature like that exists in another realm and plain but the dreamers and their 'others' are connected. They have their memories and so forth.
I liked the book I really did, even thought some holes left me frustrated at times I really liked London. She was kind of kick-ass with her own flaws. Her and Rye's relationship is kind of endearing, and there is a potential of more romance to blossom from there. Rye obviously really cares for London, and their affection for each other transcends space and time into their 'others'.
I am looking forward to finding out more about this series and the world with future books. The storyline was interesting and had me hooked from page one. <3
Might not be suitable for some, as it features a lot of smoking.
Otherborn is the first book in a brand new Dystopian series with a fantasy feel.
I found the first book interesting and unique with the concept it brings to the table. It has been a while since I have read a Dystopian book and although I enjoy them, I have to admit that I rarely read them, so I was really glad when I got to read Otherborn.
The story takes place years in the future in a reprocessed Capital City, where people live in old hotels and banks that are now made into homes and shelters. It takes years after an Energy Crisis happens. Everything that they need is provided to them by ratios and licenses, but they can only get things in limited amounts while other things – such as technology isn't always provided and if it is – to people of higher rank. The world is basically run by Tycoons, which makes me think of filthy rich business owners today, and the Tycoons in turn run the government like puppets. They use fear to scare people behind the walls of the Capital City, and provide them with plenty of smokes that contribute to the disgusting air surrounding it.
I liked the setting, it was very different. A bit dark so far from what I can tell from the little book. People end up stealing and going behind Tycoons backs in order to get what they want. There is an underground network of Scrappers who use it like a trading post in return of other items people provide or ratios.
London is a special girl. She is a dreamer and is therefor infections. She and the group of people that got close to her, dream – which is something others of the new world don't. I never fully understood that part, and I am not sure it was fully explained why the people don't dream. Nor did I really fully understand why they weren't allowed to experience or do anything 'new.' Which is apparently another ability that these people are not suppose to have. But London and her friends (who she believes are dreaming because of her) are able to do these 'new' things.
Anyway, the world building was interesting, but it has me thinking a lot because there was a lot of mystery and a lot of unanswered questions. It is the first book of the series, and I like the foundation that was set up for the world, but it left me wanting more.
The dreams that London and her friends are having turn out to be more then just dreams. They are kind of other people that are a part of them, which is were it gets also a little confusing. They aren't actually human, they are more well, creature like that exists in another realm and plain but the dreamers and their 'others' are connected. They have their memories and so forth.
I liked the book I really did, even thought some holes left me frustrated at times I really liked London. She was kind of kick-ass with her own flaws. Her and Rye's relationship is kind of endearing, and there is a potential of more romance to blossom from there. Rye obviously really cares for London, and their affection for each other transcends space and time into their 'others'.
I am looking forward to finding out more about this series and the world with future books. The storyline was interesting and had me hooked from page one. <3
Might not be suitable for some, as it features a lot of smoking.
April 9, 2013
Review:
Ever feel like you don't belong? Meant for something more than the life you were born into? This is the way London feels every day. London isn't like other girls first of all she creates music, new music. In London's world New is bad. New is something to be feared. But London has another secret, one she keeps closely guarded. One that could shake the very foundation of her society. London thought her secret was safe, London thought nobody would find out, but she was wrong.
Considering this was a debut book, I was very impressed. Otherborn isn't your average run of the mill Dystopian. Sure Otherborn has traditional elements (corrupt Government, lack of resources etc...) but it also has High Fantasy, Science Fiction and a romance I actually could get behind. Yup, this book has it all and then some.
First thing I really enjoyed about Otherborn was the pacing. Lots of times with Dystopian books the pacing sometimes suffers while the Author is giving the reader back story. Not this book, from the first to last page Otherborn kept its pacing steady. No large info dump at the beginning, the story is revealed in small bites. Enough to satisfy the need for information but not so much that the narrative is bogged down.
Secondly, I loved the romance. Now I will say, If you're a fan of romance this might not be enough for you but for someone like me, I thought the amount was perfect. I love London and Rye they are cute together. Although that ending, why?!?! I really hope he's in the next book *hmph*.
Lastly, I really enjoyed the evil Tycoons. Government is a sham it's the big tycoons who rule the roost. The Tycoons control everything and everyone. These guys aren't just corrupt, they invented the word. However, I suppose that is what makes them great antagonists!!
Now as much as I really enjoyed Otherborn I did have a few small little gripes with the story. Well, mainly Avery. Predictable that plot device was. I pretty much had her character figured out from the beginning. By the end, I wasn't shocked and mainly found myself annoyed that my predictions were true. Although, I do hope for redemption from her character in the next book. I have a small glimmer of hope based on the ending. It is very small and I don't even know if what I saw is an indicator of her not being 100% to blame, but I'll take it.
The only other thing I didn't like was London's cutting. In the overall scheme of things its a small gripe but a memorable one for me. I have to say though I'm not a fan of the practice especially when used for what I see as shock factor vs. to show real pain that the character is experiencing. In my opinion London didn't feel emotionally damaged enough to be a cutter. I didn't like it, didn't understand it, think it would of been better not in the book.
Overall, Otherborn was an enjoyable read. As uplifting as it was heartbreaking, Otherborn is sure to please. I definitely recommend picking up a copy of this title and giving it a go. The book does have a cliffhanger but it sets up the next book nicely and most importantly it felt satisfying. With that being said, I'll be rating Otherborn by Anna Silver ★★★★.
Ever feel like you don't belong? Meant for something more than the life you were born into? This is the way London feels every day. London isn't like other girls first of all she creates music, new music. In London's world New is bad. New is something to be feared. But London has another secret, one she keeps closely guarded. One that could shake the very foundation of her society. London thought her secret was safe, London thought nobody would find out, but she was wrong.
Considering this was a debut book, I was very impressed. Otherborn isn't your average run of the mill Dystopian. Sure Otherborn has traditional elements (corrupt Government, lack of resources etc...) but it also has High Fantasy, Science Fiction and a romance I actually could get behind. Yup, this book has it all and then some.
First thing I really enjoyed about Otherborn was the pacing. Lots of times with Dystopian books the pacing sometimes suffers while the Author is giving the reader back story. Not this book, from the first to last page Otherborn kept its pacing steady. No large info dump at the beginning, the story is revealed in small bites. Enough to satisfy the need for information but not so much that the narrative is bogged down.
Secondly, I loved the romance. Now I will say, If you're a fan of romance this might not be enough for you but for someone like me, I thought the amount was perfect. I love London and Rye they are cute together. Although that ending, why?!?! I really hope he's in the next book *hmph*.
Lastly, I really enjoyed the evil Tycoons. Government is a sham it's the big tycoons who rule the roost. The Tycoons control everything and everyone. These guys aren't just corrupt, they invented the word. However, I suppose that is what makes them great antagonists!!
Now as much as I really enjoyed Otherborn I did have a few small little gripes with the story. Well, mainly Avery. Predictable that plot device was. I pretty much had her character figured out from the beginning. By the end, I wasn't shocked and mainly found myself annoyed that my predictions were true. Although, I do hope for redemption from her character in the next book. I have a small glimmer of hope based on the ending. It is very small and I don't even know if what I saw is an indicator of her not being 100% to blame, but I'll take it.
The only other thing I didn't like was London's cutting. In the overall scheme of things its a small gripe but a memorable one for me. I have to say though I'm not a fan of the practice especially when used for what I see as shock factor vs. to show real pain that the character is experiencing. In my opinion London didn't feel emotionally damaged enough to be a cutter. I didn't like it, didn't understand it, think it would of been better not in the book.
Overall, Otherborn was an enjoyable read. As uplifting as it was heartbreaking, Otherborn is sure to please. I definitely recommend picking up a copy of this title and giving it a go. The book does have a cliffhanger but it sets up the next book nicely and most importantly it felt satisfying. With that being said, I'll be rating Otherborn by Anna Silver ★★★★.
June 15, 2013
See more of my reviews @ Moosubi Reviews!
OTHERBORN is a novel that had so much potential – it’s a dystopia that features “dream walking” of a sort and the idea of parallel worlds. What’s more fantastical than that?
I’ll start of by mentioning what didn’t quite work for me. For the most part, I had mixed feelings about our heroine, London. She’s definitely a strong, brave and kind heroine, but at times she seemed too pigheaded. There’s one point, for example, that she refuses to let another character drive a truck and insists to do it on her own, despite the fact that she had no experience at all, and there was someone else clearly more qualified. I mean, I get that strong heroines usually want to help your comrades as much as possible. But there’s a difference between that and recklessly just thinking of your own pride.
I also had a problem with the romance. It wasn’t exactly insta-love, but I felt like the romance got into the way of the storyline. This usually doesn’t really work for me, and unfortunately, it didn’t work for me here, either. There would be times, for example, that instead of focusing on surviving and the state of her friends, London would be sulking that her supposed love interest didn’t like her as much as she’d thought he would. There’s also a sort-of love triangle that I thought the book could have done without :/
And now onto the good stuff! I thought the world built in OTHERBORN was great! Anna Silver’s descriptions really give you a good image of the world, and I loved it! The world was realistic, desolate, interesting and a bit dark, and one that I definitely look forward to exploring more. There’s also a fantastical element of the world that absolutely fascinated me. I do have quite a few questions about the world – like, what’s the harm of making “New” songs if oil is supposed to be conserved, or how the Tycoons somehow made the rest of the world stop dreaming – but hopefully we’ll see more of this mysterious world in the next books!
Aside from the romance, I also found the general storyline interesting. It’s a bit more slow-moving in the beginning, but once the pace picks up, it doesn’t drag again. There’s all kinds of exciting things – action, fight scenes, magic, dreamwalking – you name it! It all builds until the heart pounding end, which just you begging for more!
Because of its action and intriguing world, OTHERBORN was still ultimately a book I enjoyed, despite my issues with its romance and main character. It’s a book that has a ton of potential, so I’ll definitely be back for more! Paranormal romance or dystopia addicts will also be engrossed with London’s exciting journey!
* A copy of the novel was provided for the blog tour. This did not affect my opinion of the book – this review expresses my honest opinions.
OTHERBORN is a novel that had so much potential – it’s a dystopia that features “dream walking” of a sort and the idea of parallel worlds. What’s more fantastical than that?
I’ll start of by mentioning what didn’t quite work for me. For the most part, I had mixed feelings about our heroine, London. She’s definitely a strong, brave and kind heroine, but at times she seemed too pigheaded. There’s one point, for example, that she refuses to let another character drive a truck and insists to do it on her own, despite the fact that she had no experience at all, and there was someone else clearly more qualified. I mean, I get that strong heroines usually want to help your comrades as much as possible. But there’s a difference between that and recklessly just thinking of your own pride.
I also had a problem with the romance. It wasn’t exactly insta-love, but I felt like the romance got into the way of the storyline. This usually doesn’t really work for me, and unfortunately, it didn’t work for me here, either. There would be times, for example, that instead of focusing on surviving and the state of her friends, London would be sulking that her supposed love interest didn’t like her as much as she’d thought he would. There’s also a sort-of love triangle that I thought the book could have done without :/
And now onto the good stuff! I thought the world built in OTHERBORN was great! Anna Silver’s descriptions really give you a good image of the world, and I loved it! The world was realistic, desolate, interesting and a bit dark, and one that I definitely look forward to exploring more. There’s also a fantastical element of the world that absolutely fascinated me. I do have quite a few questions about the world – like, what’s the harm of making “New” songs if oil is supposed to be conserved, or how the Tycoons somehow made the rest of the world stop dreaming – but hopefully we’ll see more of this mysterious world in the next books!
Aside from the romance, I also found the general storyline interesting. It’s a bit more slow-moving in the beginning, but once the pace picks up, it doesn’t drag again. There’s all kinds of exciting things – action, fight scenes, magic, dreamwalking – you name it! It all builds until the heart pounding end, which just you begging for more!
Because of its action and intriguing world, OTHERBORN was still ultimately a book I enjoyed, despite my issues with its romance and main character. It’s a book that has a ton of potential, so I’ll definitely be back for more! Paranormal romance or dystopia addicts will also be engrossed with London’s exciting journey!
* A copy of the novel was provided for the blog tour. This did not affect my opinion of the book – this review expresses my honest opinions.
April 19, 2013
Blog Tour Post: The Shadow Realm
This was a unique and very different take on the regular dystopian genre. Ms Silver has created something quite fascinating which I know a lot of people will really enjoy. She has taken the regular themes of starvation, energy crisis, and government overlords and added a new element in the form of these Otherborns. I thought the concept of people not dreaming was really interesting and baffling. You would think to yourself, "How could someone not dream??" So I was more than curious has to find out about this world where nothing New is created, everything is reprocessed over and over again, and where dreaming is a crime.
Silver did a excellent job in building up the world in which London and her friends live. She describes the environment so well that you can really get a feel for the harshness and cruelty of it. In contrast to that you have the beautiful and captivating astral world that the Others reside in. This however is where I started getting confused and my brain got a bit fuzzled. When Silver starts to explain the Other's and what there purpose is and all the different layers of the astral I couldn't really keep up. This is why I don't really read Sci-fi books because I don't really have the head for em :P I know some people will really like this aspect of the story but for me I thought it was just a bit too much. I feel like it could have been made a whole lot simpler. Even though a lot of the book is spent explaining the astral realm and the Other's and everything I was still left not fully understanding everything. I think Silver made it more complicated than it should have been.
London I thought was a good protagonist. For most of the book she was the voice of reason and had a good head on her. Other times though she did get a bit over-reactive and whiny. Basically a teenager starting to show signs of maturity. And her relationship with Rye I didn't get. I understood that they were friends but I didn't really see how she was in love with him. They have been friends their entire life so it's not insta-love or anything but I just didn't see what she was attracted too. I felt that Rye was a bit self-centered and even though he claims to love her too I just didn't see it.
The overall story was fast-paced and engaging. Not keep you on the edge of your seat or anything but still have you wondering what was gonna happen next. The ending will leave you with many questions and have you waiting for the next one. I recommend this one for sci-fi and dystopian lovers who are looking for something original.
I was provided with an ecopy of this book as part of the blog tour in exchange for an honest review
This was a unique and very different take on the regular dystopian genre. Ms Silver has created something quite fascinating which I know a lot of people will really enjoy. She has taken the regular themes of starvation, energy crisis, and government overlords and added a new element in the form of these Otherborns. I thought the concept of people not dreaming was really interesting and baffling. You would think to yourself, "How could someone not dream??" So I was more than curious has to find out about this world where nothing New is created, everything is reprocessed over and over again, and where dreaming is a crime.
Silver did a excellent job in building up the world in which London and her friends live. She describes the environment so well that you can really get a feel for the harshness and cruelty of it. In contrast to that you have the beautiful and captivating astral world that the Others reside in. This however is where I started getting confused and my brain got a bit fuzzled. When Silver starts to explain the Other's and what there purpose is and all the different layers of the astral I couldn't really keep up. This is why I don't really read Sci-fi books because I don't really have the head for em :P I know some people will really like this aspect of the story but for me I thought it was just a bit too much. I feel like it could have been made a whole lot simpler. Even though a lot of the book is spent explaining the astral realm and the Other's and everything I was still left not fully understanding everything. I think Silver made it more complicated than it should have been.
London I thought was a good protagonist. For most of the book she was the voice of reason and had a good head on her. Other times though she did get a bit over-reactive and whiny. Basically a teenager starting to show signs of maturity. And her relationship with Rye I didn't get. I understood that they were friends but I didn't really see how she was in love with him. They have been friends their entire life so it's not insta-love or anything but I just didn't see what she was attracted too. I felt that Rye was a bit self-centered and even though he claims to love her too I just didn't see it.
The overall story was fast-paced and engaging. Not keep you on the edge of your seat or anything but still have you wondering what was gonna happen next. The ending will leave you with many questions and have you waiting for the next one. I recommend this one for sci-fi and dystopian lovers who are looking for something original.
I was provided with an ecopy of this book as part of the blog tour in exchange for an honest review
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