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Rebel #3
Rebels Divided
Annabelle and sister kidnapped by warlord … Geo’s father killed by warlord … Annabelle and Geo meet as enemies … can they help each other?
“An action-packed love story with even more twists and turns than its prequel.” – Kirkus Reviews
Annabelle Scott and Geo Shaw first meet as enemies. She has him in her sights and doesn’t shoot, which baffles them both.
Perfect for fans of the Hunger Games, Divergent, and Maze Runner. Rebels Divided is the third book in a science fiction thriller series. It takes place after a Second American Civil War leaves the nation divided into the civilized Federal Union and the warlord-controlled Outland. It takes place three years after The Rebel Trap.
Geo is a rugged frontiersman who hungers to bust loose from the impoverished Outland glen where his rebel father hides him from the local warlord’s Rangers and the Federal Union’s Mechanized Warriors. The Federal Union took Annabelle’s biological parents when she was little and she was adopted by a member of the Union’s political opposition. Though drafted into the elite Mechs to hunt rebels and escaped boys, she has helped several to escape.
The Outland warlord and the Federal governor conclude a secret deal, pledging Annabelle to the warlord to provide heirs, and putting a bounty on Geo and his father. When Annabelle refuses, her people betray her to the warlord who kidnaps her and her beloved sister. Geo’s plans to break loose of his father’s control lead to the father’s death and Geo hunted as a rebel leader’s only son. Unable to locate her sister, Annabelle escapes the warlord, but is surrounded by his Rangers. Hunted by the warlord and with no help from the Mech Warriors, Annabelle connects with Geo as a last resort, but they are sworn enemies.
Can Geo and Annabelle overcome mutual distrust and work together to rescue her sister and gain justice for his father’s murder? Will their feelings for each other derail or further their goals?
“An action-packed love story with even more twists and turns than its prequel.” – Kirkus Reviews
Annabelle Scott and Geo Shaw first meet as enemies. She has him in her sights and doesn’t shoot, which baffles them both.
Perfect for fans of the Hunger Games, Divergent, and Maze Runner. Rebels Divided is the third book in a science fiction thriller series. It takes place after a Second American Civil War leaves the nation divided into the civilized Federal Union and the warlord-controlled Outland. It takes place three years after The Rebel Trap.
Geo is a rugged frontiersman who hungers to bust loose from the impoverished Outland glen where his rebel father hides him from the local warlord’s Rangers and the Federal Union’s Mechanized Warriors. The Federal Union took Annabelle’s biological parents when she was little and she was adopted by a member of the Union’s political opposition. Though drafted into the elite Mechs to hunt rebels and escaped boys, she has helped several to escape.
The Outland warlord and the Federal governor conclude a secret deal, pledging Annabelle to the warlord to provide heirs, and putting a bounty on Geo and his father. When Annabelle refuses, her people betray her to the warlord who kidnaps her and her beloved sister. Geo’s plans to break loose of his father’s control lead to the father’s death and Geo hunted as a rebel leader’s only son. Unable to locate her sister, Annabelle escapes the warlord, but is surrounded by his Rangers. Hunted by the warlord and with no help from the Mech Warriors, Annabelle connects with Geo as a last resort, but they are sworn enemies.
Can Geo and Annabelle overcome mutual distrust and work together to rescue her sister and gain justice for his father’s murder? Will their feelings for each other derail or further their goals?
- GenresDystopiaYoung Adult
293 pages, Paperback
First published June 12, 2013
2 people are currently reading
419 people want to read
About the author
Lance Erlick
21 books266 followersLance Erlick writes science fiction thrillers for adult and young adult readers. In 2018, he launched his Android Chronicles novels with Reborn and continued it with Unbound and Emergent. This series follows the challenges of Synthia Cross, wrestling with the download of a human mind and emergent behavior while confronted by humans who seek to control her. In the Rebel series, Annabelle Scott faces a crisis of conscience after she’s drafted into the military to enforce laws she believes are wrong. The Regina Shen series takes place after abrupt climate change leads to Collapse and a new World Federation. As an outcast, Regina must fight to stay alive and help her family while she avoids being captured. Xenogeneic: First Contact is about aerospace engineer Elena Pyetrov’s struggles with alien pilgrims determined to take over Earth.
To learn more, visit him online at www.LanceErlick.com.
To learn more, visit him online at www.LanceErlick.com.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 3, 2013
I loved this book as much as the first, despite some issues I had with the ending.
This book takes place three years after the end of the first book. Annabelle is a mech, an elite female warrior who is charged with protecting the border, rounding up boys and enforcing regulations.
This book also lends more insight into the “Second American Civil War”.
As with the first book, this absolutely fascinates me. “When the Progressive Reunion seized power, men got suckered into supporting the Patriots; they saw no alternative. After war broke out, they learned that entrepreneur Adrianne Picard secretly provided the Progressive Reunion with mech gear and drones. The war ended quickly. Radical Patriots clung to Appalachia and limited government”.
The way this is conveyed throughout the book is in a simple manner that is plausible in light of today’s political issues. I live in the great state of Texas, which would probably be at the forefront of any “Patriot” party movement.
In this book, Mr. Erlick further examines the problems that usually plague any sort of “utopian” society. In the Progressive Reunion stronghold, known as the Federal Union, Annabelle learns that the rules don’t apply to all. She sees things in her capacity as a soldier that further questions the confines of her society “we’re all equal, except the elite. She tried to remember where she had read that. Some banned book her mom kept hidden? Animal Farm maybe.”
Also in her capacity as a mech, Annabelle can help the unfortunate boys that are discovered living within the borders of the Federal Union. She becomes part of the Underground Railroad that leads boys and men to safety in the Outland. In this activity, she regularly meets with her adoptive mother’s banished husband. And in a fateful turn of events, meets Geo, her adoptive brother that she has never met.
They both have to collaborate to survive as well as bring peace to their prospective homes.
Again, I love the character of Annabelle for many reasons. Her humanity and her compassion only deepen in this book. She also pieces together many parts of a complex puzzle and is able to avert disaster.
I also fell in love with the character of Geo. He is strong, loyal, very intelligent and also works for what is right. I loved reading about his conflicting feelings for Annabelle.
I also loved reading about the gadgets and techniques Geo and his father came up with while living in the Outland. They have electricity. They have saferooms. They have homemade weapons and other ways to ensure their safety (for the most part).
The problem I have with the ending is that it essentially abruptly ends. Also too many loose ends are tied up at once in a nice pretty package. As much as I love happy endings, things just seemed a little too convenient by the end.
I would have liked an epilogue that sketches out Annabelle’s new life or a hint that everything is alright beyond the last pages of the book.
But overall, a very satisfying conclusion to the adventure Annabelle began in the first book.
This book takes place three years after the end of the first book. Annabelle is a mech, an elite female warrior who is charged with protecting the border, rounding up boys and enforcing regulations.
This book also lends more insight into the “Second American Civil War”.
As with the first book, this absolutely fascinates me. “When the Progressive Reunion seized power, men got suckered into supporting the Patriots; they saw no alternative. After war broke out, they learned that entrepreneur Adrianne Picard secretly provided the Progressive Reunion with mech gear and drones. The war ended quickly. Radical Patriots clung to Appalachia and limited government”.
The way this is conveyed throughout the book is in a simple manner that is plausible in light of today’s political issues. I live in the great state of Texas, which would probably be at the forefront of any “Patriot” party movement.
In this book, Mr. Erlick further examines the problems that usually plague any sort of “utopian” society. In the Progressive Reunion stronghold, known as the Federal Union, Annabelle learns that the rules don’t apply to all. She sees things in her capacity as a soldier that further questions the confines of her society “we’re all equal, except the elite. She tried to remember where she had read that. Some banned book her mom kept hidden? Animal Farm maybe.”
Also in her capacity as a mech, Annabelle can help the unfortunate boys that are discovered living within the borders of the Federal Union. She becomes part of the Underground Railroad that leads boys and men to safety in the Outland. In this activity, she regularly meets with her adoptive mother’s banished husband. And in a fateful turn of events, meets Geo, her adoptive brother that she has never met.
They both have to collaborate to survive as well as bring peace to their prospective homes.
Again, I love the character of Annabelle for many reasons. Her humanity and her compassion only deepen in this book. She also pieces together many parts of a complex puzzle and is able to avert disaster.
I also fell in love with the character of Geo. He is strong, loyal, very intelligent and also works for what is right. I loved reading about his conflicting feelings for Annabelle.
I also loved reading about the gadgets and techniques Geo and his father came up with while living in the Outland. They have electricity. They have saferooms. They have homemade weapons and other ways to ensure their safety (for the most part).
The problem I have with the ending is that it essentially abruptly ends. Also too many loose ends are tied up at once in a nice pretty package. As much as I love happy endings, things just seemed a little too convenient by the end.
I would have liked an epilogue that sketches out Annabelle’s new life or a hint that everything is alright beyond the last pages of the book.
But overall, a very satisfying conclusion to the adventure Annabelle began in the first book.
February 28, 2014
Annabelle has grown up in a world where females have weeded out the men and boys from their society and their lives. Her adopted mother, a Tenn-tucky state senator, still remembers the husband and son she sent into the Outlands to protect. Annabelle has grown up believing her brother George is a monstrosity of a boy.
This novel picks up three years after the ending of The Rebel Within (read my review here). Annabelle is still paired with Dara in the Mechanized Female Warriors, and still is trying to evade and brush off the amazon’s advances. Her younger sister Janine has now joined their ranks, and they are sent on a mission into no man’s land, the strange common ground between the female Civ society and the male retreat of the Outlands.
Governor Battani is still pressing forward with her own political agenda, the mechs are amping up their border patrol and missions, and Senator Scott is still opposing Battani on many issues…until Battani gives Mama Scott an ultimatum she can’t refuse.
Annabelle and Janine are both captured in the Outland and held hostage, but Thane Edwards has underestimated Annabelle’s resourcefulness. She must impost her much-hated mech presence on the very thin hospitality of those trying to sustain a life during the hard times on the frontiers of the Outlands. She’s not leaving without her sister, even if it means taking a stand against the much feared and well-trained former mech Thane Edwards.
The novel’s chapters alternate between Annabelle’s world and a young Outland man’s world, until they eventually find each other in the Outland.
Annabelle and Geo are both betrayed by their people, fighting against both of their worlds to do the right thing, and forging something new of their quickly deteriorating civilizations before civil war can strike again and take its toll.
This is not a novel to be missed! While the first was hard for me to get through at times, this novel pretty much lays it all out on the table. The past of Annabelle is fully explained, the truth of George’s banishment is shown clearly, and shows the strength and willpower of young individuals, which is something I find quite lacking in today’s time.
Annabelle continues to grow as an individual, even deceiving Geo along the way for his help. She shows a softer side in this novel, as does her mech commander, Sam, which is totally out of place based on the hard-nosed character she was portrayed as in the first book. Geo is a character that grows throughout the novel in so many ways. He is a young man trying to be a man but is oppressed by the societal structures of the Outland and the cause his father has taken up to protect others. I loved Geo’s character; he has a heart to match Annabelle, even if he was unfocused at times.
I am intrigued to see how Annabelle and Geo will build a new Appalachia, in hand with their mother and Sam, and how their relationship will progress. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a third book!
This novel picks up three years after the ending of The Rebel Within (read my review here). Annabelle is still paired with Dara in the Mechanized Female Warriors, and still is trying to evade and brush off the amazon’s advances. Her younger sister Janine has now joined their ranks, and they are sent on a mission into no man’s land, the strange common ground between the female Civ society and the male retreat of the Outlands.
Governor Battani is still pressing forward with her own political agenda, the mechs are amping up their border patrol and missions, and Senator Scott is still opposing Battani on many issues…until Battani gives Mama Scott an ultimatum she can’t refuse.
Annabelle and Janine are both captured in the Outland and held hostage, but Thane Edwards has underestimated Annabelle’s resourcefulness. She must impost her much-hated mech presence on the very thin hospitality of those trying to sustain a life during the hard times on the frontiers of the Outlands. She’s not leaving without her sister, even if it means taking a stand against the much feared and well-trained former mech Thane Edwards.
The novel’s chapters alternate between Annabelle’s world and a young Outland man’s world, until they eventually find each other in the Outland.
Annabelle and Geo are both betrayed by their people, fighting against both of their worlds to do the right thing, and forging something new of their quickly deteriorating civilizations before civil war can strike again and take its toll.
This is not a novel to be missed! While the first was hard for me to get through at times, this novel pretty much lays it all out on the table. The past of Annabelle is fully explained, the truth of George’s banishment is shown clearly, and shows the strength and willpower of young individuals, which is something I find quite lacking in today’s time.
Annabelle continues to grow as an individual, even deceiving Geo along the way for his help. She shows a softer side in this novel, as does her mech commander, Sam, which is totally out of place based on the hard-nosed character she was portrayed as in the first book. Geo is a character that grows throughout the novel in so many ways. He is a young man trying to be a man but is oppressed by the societal structures of the Outland and the cause his father has taken up to protect others. I loved Geo’s character; he has a heart to match Annabelle, even if he was unfocused at times.
I am intrigued to see how Annabelle and Geo will build a new Appalachia, in hand with their mother and Sam, and how their relationship will progress. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a third book!
October 30, 2013
For the nth time in my life, I read a book cover to cover, only to realise that it is NOT the first book in a series. I am banging my head on the desk right now. Seriously. No wonder chunks of the book makes zero sense to me.
Which brings me to the first thing I had wanted to point out before the penny dropped ─ nothing makes sense at all for the first half of the book. Unless you have read The Rebel Within, the first book in the series, before you jump into this one. I am not one of those people. So apologies to the author, because I was about to file a complain for the major confusions. Just kidding.
Here's a piece of useful advice for everyone out there: never read book series out of order because most of the time you'll be the one with messed up brain cells.
Now that that is out of the way... LOVE this book! I do, I do, I do. It's so intense, with adrenaline-pumping actions at every turn of the pages. We also have the kind of romance that is found in the most unlikely places, with the most unlikely people.
And the plot twists! Sheesh, no wonder I have trust issues. All in all, Rebels Divided is just my kind of thing and I love it despite the headaches *clears throat*.
5 stars!
Which brings me to the first thing I had wanted to point out before the penny dropped ─ nothing makes sense at all for the first half of the book. Unless you have read The Rebel Within, the first book in the series, before you jump into this one. I am not one of those people. So apologies to the author, because I was about to file a complain for the major confusions. Just kidding.
Here's a piece of useful advice for everyone out there: never read book series out of order because most of the time you'll be the one with messed up brain cells.
Now that that is out of the way... LOVE this book! I do, I do, I do. It's so intense, with adrenaline-pumping actions at every turn of the pages. We also have the kind of romance that is found in the most unlikely places, with the most unlikely people.
And the plot twists! Sheesh, no wonder I have trust issues. All in all, Rebels Divided is just my kind of thing and I love it despite the headaches *clears throat*.
5 stars!
August 26, 2013
Again, I'm not going to give a summary; others do that more effectively. Instead, I'd like to say that I enjoyed Lance Erlick's "Rebels Divided" much more than its prequel.
Erlick's action has tightened up, the speeches are more succinct and his characters are deeper and more developed. As well, he has included more sensory descriptions, which increased my enjoyment. With a more complex vocabulary, it also allowed the characters to become more mature.
Well done, Lance! I'm looking forward to coming books from ypi!
Erlick's action has tightened up, the speeches are more succinct and his characters are deeper and more developed. As well, he has included more sensory descriptions, which increased my enjoyment. With a more complex vocabulary, it also allowed the characters to become more mature.
Well done, Lance! I'm looking forward to coming books from ypi!
May 2, 2014
Nicely paced SF novel with more than a few twists to keep the reader wondering.
it's a future world after a second civil war. The story is concentrated between two sides. Tenn-Tucky, the merging of the two states where women control things and have driven most men out. The few left are virtually slave labor. Appalachia, concentrate in Biltmoor where it's mostly men.
As with most political groups, corruption reigns and what the regular folks want is not even considered.
In this environment comes two young people, Geo of Appalachia, and Annabelle, a mech-warrior of Tenn-Tucky. The pair of them are connected in ways they don't realize, but will learn.
Fine SF novel.
it's a future world after a second civil war. The story is concentrated between two sides. Tenn-Tucky, the merging of the two states where women control things and have driven most men out. The few left are virtually slave labor. Appalachia, concentrate in Biltmoor where it's mostly men.
As with most political groups, corruption reigns and what the regular folks want is not even considered.
In this environment comes two young people, Geo of Appalachia, and Annabelle, a mech-warrior of Tenn-Tucky. The pair of them are connected in ways they don't realize, but will learn.
Fine SF novel.
January 2, 2014
Rebels Divided is the follow up to The Rebels Within. However, this book can definitely be a stand alone. What was most notable for me were the action scenes. I couldn't put the book down because of them.
Overall, the premise of the book is intriguing (would have loved to see more homosexual and heterosexual tendencies within both societies). The world building was fantastic, and I really enjoyed the characters and their development within the book.
I look forward to reading other works by Erlick.
Overall, the premise of the book is intriguing (would have loved to see more homosexual and heterosexual tendencies within both societies). The world building was fantastic, and I really enjoyed the characters and their development within the book.
I look forward to reading other works by Erlick.
November 8, 2017
DNF @37%
*Book source ~ NetGalley
I have no idea wtf is going on in this YA Dystopian story. It doesn’t help that the writing is only so-so, the dialogue is stilted and for the love of all that's holy, I cannot stand when a character says something like, “We have to go! Now!” Then the other character is all, “Uh, who are you? Hey! You’re the enemy! Why should I go with you?” Then they argue for like ten hours when the danger is only seconds away. *rolls eyes* The nicest thing I can say is, this world is a very interesting concept. However, the execution is very lackluster.
*Book source ~ NetGalley
I have no idea wtf is going on in this YA Dystopian story. It doesn’t help that the writing is only so-so, the dialogue is stilted and for the love of all that's holy, I cannot stand when a character says something like, “We have to go! Now!” Then the other character is all, “Uh, who are you? Hey! You’re the enemy! Why should I go with you?” Then they argue for like ten hours when the danger is only seconds away. *rolls eyes* The nicest thing I can say is, this world is a very interesting concept. However, the execution is very lackluster.
July 24, 2013
Rebels Divided: Lance Erlick
The world has changed greatly after the Second American Civil War. As with all nations things happen that divide it and in this case splits it down the middle. As women had to fight for the right to vote, better jobs and to have the right to speak out in this new world, the Federal Union controls what happens in the country and those in charge are all females along with the aide of the Egg Fusion Fertilization and Female Mechanized Warriors. The males now have to flee for their lives and are definitely treated in a subservient manner. Living in the male-dominated Appalachian Outland these young men learn how to deal with life, learn how to become individuals except for one man named Thane Edwards that has all of the power over the church and the economy. Rangers, as they are called in this place are similar to the Texas Rangers we see in many western programs. Two separate worlds, two separate governments fighting for control, power and the right to dominate. When the governor of Tenn-tucky and the Outland warlord decide to create a special deal the fate of many is at risk and their hope to become more powerful the goal.
When Geo encounters a Mech named Karen he has no choice but to kill her. Fighting Union mechs and protecting their neighbors, taking in refugees that seek refuge from the Federal and Ranger cruelty, Geo along with his pa live in a poor Outland glen hoping to hide from the local Rangers, stay alive and help others.
Meet Annabelle who is now a Mech Warrior, not of her own choice but forced into this program in order to protect her sister and her family or face being exiled. With a captain that hates her and does all she can to make her life unbearable, Geo’s Mom who was forced to leave her family is bringing up Annabelle, who lost her parents at a young age. Tough, brazen, filled with fire she is determined to try and conform to the rules of the Federal Union but can she? But, things change when Karen, her friend is killed. Facing this young man from the Outland and having the chance to kill him too, you wonder why she did not avenge her friend’s death and let him live. But, Annabelle is haunted by her friend’s death and when approached by her superior she is confronted with her feelings, her new assignment and given little opportunity or time to mourn her friend. Not allowed to see the Outland and hoping to complete her next assignment and capture the escapee, Annabelle is about to learn some hard lessons when her adopted sister is kidnapped. Things begin to change as Annabelle finds herself in dangerous territory after going to a party with her sister and Dara and then beginning her mission the next day. Explosions, the Union and Rangers after her, links disconnected and then the unthinkable happen once again. Sent to capture a man named Cory Phillips little does she know that he has enlisted the help of someone else? When Dara steps away, her sister is in danger, a young boy named Tommy is brought to safety, and what happens next will change everything. Mech warriors are required to complete their missions and not question their superiors. Families are separated and boys are not allowed in certain areas or they are taken into custody. The Patriots vs. the Union two separate parties almost like those we have in the present today. Each side wanting control and each wanting power. With the economy in trouble, food supplies on the decline we wonder if the author is trying to send a message to everyone that this just might happen.
Annabelle learns early on how to defend herself but when ordered to marry Thane Edwards, the Outland Warlord, now they have gone too far. Hoping to escape she and her sister and Dara venture out to find Cory Phillips and bring him in but the end result would result in her sister being kidnapped and Annabelle taken captive. When face to face with Thane Edwards she finds herself more than just repulsed, angry with her adopted mother for cowering to his demands and the Governor’s crooked agenda as things are about to change. Escaping captivity with some help she finds Geo and together they just might team up to save Janine and maybe change things for everyone. How far would you go to save your adopted sister? How far would you go to right so many wrongs? In a world that is not that different than ours today where restrictions are placed on travel, food allowances, jobs and even economic advancement on the decline the author brings to light what might happen in the future. Girls are not allowed to see or deal with boys. Boys are restricted to living in exile and Rangers fight Mechs and no one seems to be able to create peace. Union Mechs and Outland Rangers are out to stop Geo and Annabelle. Taxes, tithes, greed and power are some of the driving forces behind what most want. One man stands to gain it all and will stop at nothing including killing to rule. Justice seems outlawed and the rules that apply are the ones set by Edwards and his minions. When Geo’s father is murdered in cold blood and Janine is kidnapped will they team up to avenge his death and find her before it’s too late?
Betrayals, lies, deceits, hate, vengeance and murder are just some of the issues brought to light in this interesting novel where two sides are so divided but to win they must unite. When things come to a head Annabelle and Geo face some harsh realities as sometimes trust is misplaced and the end result could cost you more than you think.
With their President being held hostage and Edwards ordering many innocent people killed, will Annabelle and Geo be able to find Janine and stop what Edwards has planned? Conspiracies, treachery and traitors! Who can Annabelle trust? Who is really on the side of peace and who is really working behind the scenes for the other side? Will she really have to go through with the marriage to Edwards?
Sometimes the answer is right in front of you and you just don’t know it as one savvy tech teen just might hold all the cards to stop what others have put in motion. Explosives, grenades, fight scenes that are heart stopping and vividly depicted characters bring this outstanding YA novel to life for young adults. An ending that you won’t expect and a fight that still remains to be finished as a chance for peace has come but will tyranny resurface and will Annabelle and Geo be able to create a better world for Mechs, Civs and the people of Appalachia?
Lessons in trust, hope, loyalty and friendship are learned and even more a world filled with corruption, hate, rules that were made for those at the top, families torn apart and girls forced into slavery, being soldiers and two young people that aimed to create a better world. Annabelle is definitely a great role model for young adults as if Janine with their respect for their parents, work ethic, loyalty to family and their understanding that working as a team just might be the way to create Harmony!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
The world has changed greatly after the Second American Civil War. As with all nations things happen that divide it and in this case splits it down the middle. As women had to fight for the right to vote, better jobs and to have the right to speak out in this new world, the Federal Union controls what happens in the country and those in charge are all females along with the aide of the Egg Fusion Fertilization and Female Mechanized Warriors. The males now have to flee for their lives and are definitely treated in a subservient manner. Living in the male-dominated Appalachian Outland these young men learn how to deal with life, learn how to become individuals except for one man named Thane Edwards that has all of the power over the church and the economy. Rangers, as they are called in this place are similar to the Texas Rangers we see in many western programs. Two separate worlds, two separate governments fighting for control, power and the right to dominate. When the governor of Tenn-tucky and the Outland warlord decide to create a special deal the fate of many is at risk and their hope to become more powerful the goal.
When Geo encounters a Mech named Karen he has no choice but to kill her. Fighting Union mechs and protecting their neighbors, taking in refugees that seek refuge from the Federal and Ranger cruelty, Geo along with his pa live in a poor Outland glen hoping to hide from the local Rangers, stay alive and help others.
Meet Annabelle who is now a Mech Warrior, not of her own choice but forced into this program in order to protect her sister and her family or face being exiled. With a captain that hates her and does all she can to make her life unbearable, Geo’s Mom who was forced to leave her family is bringing up Annabelle, who lost her parents at a young age. Tough, brazen, filled with fire she is determined to try and conform to the rules of the Federal Union but can she? But, things change when Karen, her friend is killed. Facing this young man from the Outland and having the chance to kill him too, you wonder why she did not avenge her friend’s death and let him live. But, Annabelle is haunted by her friend’s death and when approached by her superior she is confronted with her feelings, her new assignment and given little opportunity or time to mourn her friend. Not allowed to see the Outland and hoping to complete her next assignment and capture the escapee, Annabelle is about to learn some hard lessons when her adopted sister is kidnapped. Things begin to change as Annabelle finds herself in dangerous territory after going to a party with her sister and Dara and then beginning her mission the next day. Explosions, the Union and Rangers after her, links disconnected and then the unthinkable happen once again. Sent to capture a man named Cory Phillips little does she know that he has enlisted the help of someone else? When Dara steps away, her sister is in danger, a young boy named Tommy is brought to safety, and what happens next will change everything. Mech warriors are required to complete their missions and not question their superiors. Families are separated and boys are not allowed in certain areas or they are taken into custody. The Patriots vs. the Union two separate parties almost like those we have in the present today. Each side wanting control and each wanting power. With the economy in trouble, food supplies on the decline we wonder if the author is trying to send a message to everyone that this just might happen.
Annabelle learns early on how to defend herself but when ordered to marry Thane Edwards, the Outland Warlord, now they have gone too far. Hoping to escape she and her sister and Dara venture out to find Cory Phillips and bring him in but the end result would result in her sister being kidnapped and Annabelle taken captive. When face to face with Thane Edwards she finds herself more than just repulsed, angry with her adopted mother for cowering to his demands and the Governor’s crooked agenda as things are about to change. Escaping captivity with some help she finds Geo and together they just might team up to save Janine and maybe change things for everyone. How far would you go to save your adopted sister? How far would you go to right so many wrongs? In a world that is not that different than ours today where restrictions are placed on travel, food allowances, jobs and even economic advancement on the decline the author brings to light what might happen in the future. Girls are not allowed to see or deal with boys. Boys are restricted to living in exile and Rangers fight Mechs and no one seems to be able to create peace. Union Mechs and Outland Rangers are out to stop Geo and Annabelle. Taxes, tithes, greed and power are some of the driving forces behind what most want. One man stands to gain it all and will stop at nothing including killing to rule. Justice seems outlawed and the rules that apply are the ones set by Edwards and his minions. When Geo’s father is murdered in cold blood and Janine is kidnapped will they team up to avenge his death and find her before it’s too late?
Betrayals, lies, deceits, hate, vengeance and murder are just some of the issues brought to light in this interesting novel where two sides are so divided but to win they must unite. When things come to a head Annabelle and Geo face some harsh realities as sometimes trust is misplaced and the end result could cost you more than you think.
With their President being held hostage and Edwards ordering many innocent people killed, will Annabelle and Geo be able to find Janine and stop what Edwards has planned? Conspiracies, treachery and traitors! Who can Annabelle trust? Who is really on the side of peace and who is really working behind the scenes for the other side? Will she really have to go through with the marriage to Edwards?
Sometimes the answer is right in front of you and you just don’t know it as one savvy tech teen just might hold all the cards to stop what others have put in motion. Explosives, grenades, fight scenes that are heart stopping and vividly depicted characters bring this outstanding YA novel to life for young adults. An ending that you won’t expect and a fight that still remains to be finished as a chance for peace has come but will tyranny resurface and will Annabelle and Geo be able to create a better world for Mechs, Civs and the people of Appalachia?
Lessons in trust, hope, loyalty and friendship are learned and even more a world filled with corruption, hate, rules that were made for those at the top, families torn apart and girls forced into slavery, being soldiers and two young people that aimed to create a better world. Annabelle is definitely a great role model for young adults as if Janine with their respect for their parents, work ethic, loyalty to family and their understanding that working as a team just might be the way to create Harmony!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
December 27, 2014
What I Liked: Annabelle has grown so much in between the two books and it shows. She acts much more mature than she did in the first book and she’s even become more cautious about how she is with her rebellious tendencies. Three year as a mech is a lot of time for her to grow, but she’s still the same Annabelle we knew in the first book with her attitude and stubbornness. She’s still even incredibly protective over Janine! She’s also more friendly with her mech sisters than she was in the first book, and she’s shown to be close to some of them like she isn’t with others. Dara appears as well, and she doesn’t seem to have changed much in the sense that she still seems to be chasing after Annabelle three years down the road. We’re also introduced to a host of new characters to go with Annabelle’s stay in the Outlands, the main one being George (or Geo as he seems to go by). Geo’s actually an interesting character and gives us a good bounce off with the alternating perspective between him and Annabelle throughout the novel. Geo’s growth in the novel was noticeable, and he was a character who did sometimes surprise me. Actually, Annabelle surprised me more than anyone, she did what she had to do to rescue Janine and let me tell you the way she went about it with Geo in the beginning showed that she’s learned how to get what she wants. I loved them both, I really did and I’m curious as to what the sequel to this book will be like. The writing was better in this book than the first book, and that pleased me.
What I Didn’t Like: Okay, seriously, what happened to the plot at the end of book one that got set up? I was totally expecting that one to play out in book two! But instead we get sent three years into the future and we don’t know what happens during the plot set up at the end of book one? I was frankly rather puzzled by this development, it didn’t add up to me. There were also some parts that didn’t quite add up, and they left me a little puzzled, such as Annabelle being a mech warrior but not being able to stay silent when her life is in danger and keeps asking questions, what was even up with that? Plus she’s only able to survive in the wilderness as long as she has her mech suit, and didn’t Sam tell her she would have to know how to survive without one in case of emergency? Pretty sure she should have learned to fend for herself in the wilderness without her mech suit. Some portions again suffered from bad writing, it was either was just too rushed or not worded right to make sense. Plus the senseless fighting Annabelle initiated with Geo.
Overall Review: I love this book more than I do the first one despite its hiccups and faults, its paced really well and interesting in a way that keeps you guessing with more than a few twist to keep you from getting comfortable with how everything is playing out. Sam even shows a new face in this book that’s a bit kinder than the tough shelled person we knew in the first book. Annabelle has grown in some ways, but we still see that she’s dealing with doubts and she’s got her faults. There’ an interesting plot, interesting characters, and an ending that could leave you wondering what happens afterward. All in all, a lovely addition to this series.
Recommend?: Why yes I do! It’s a really good book, in its own way. If you liked the first one then you should definitely read the second one!
What I Didn’t Like: Okay, seriously, what happened to the plot at the end of book one that got set up? I was totally expecting that one to play out in book two! But instead we get sent three years into the future and we don’t know what happens during the plot set up at the end of book one? I was frankly rather puzzled by this development, it didn’t add up to me. There were also some parts that didn’t quite add up, and they left me a little puzzled, such as Annabelle being a mech warrior but not being able to stay silent when her life is in danger and keeps asking questions, what was even up with that? Plus she’s only able to survive in the wilderness as long as she has her mech suit, and didn’t Sam tell her she would have to know how to survive without one in case of emergency? Pretty sure she should have learned to fend for herself in the wilderness without her mech suit. Some portions again suffered from bad writing, it was either was just too rushed or not worded right to make sense. Plus the senseless fighting Annabelle initiated with Geo.
Overall Review: I love this book more than I do the first one despite its hiccups and faults, its paced really well and interesting in a way that keeps you guessing with more than a few twist to keep you from getting comfortable with how everything is playing out. Sam even shows a new face in this book that’s a bit kinder than the tough shelled person we knew in the first book. Annabelle has grown in some ways, but we still see that she’s dealing with doubts and she’s got her faults. There’ an interesting plot, interesting characters, and an ending that could leave you wondering what happens afterward. All in all, a lovely addition to this series.
Recommend?: Why yes I do! It’s a really good book, in its own way. If you liked the first one then you should definitely read the second one!
March 20, 2016
The Rebel Series by Lance Erlick is a curious examination of society after the Second World War which divides men and women into separate communities. Each with their own government, religion, morals and values.
What I Liked Most About the Series
The grey area. There are some obvious plus sides to a society made up of a single sex. And there are some obvious down sides. Erlick, through the characters, presents many of these views, but doesn’t push the reader in either direction.
Annabelle. She fits right up there with Katniss and Tris, but Erlick takes her a bit further than Collins took Katniss and Roth took Tris. There’s a complexity to Annabelle as she discovers the dark side of an all female society and starts to actively fight against it. She’s stronger, in my opinion, physically and mentally. The obstacles that break her down do not paralyze her or scare her. You can feel her fighting every inch of the way.
What I Liked Least About the Series
The order of the books. If you read them in publication order, I am almost certain you will be confused because I certainly was! Annabelle is given a mission at the end of book one which is not mentioned in Rebels Divided. The Rebel Trap explores that mission. Now that all three books have been released, I hope that GoodReads will change the series order.
The many voices in The Rebel Trap. While there was good formatting to show you the different voices speaking to Annabelle, it got frustrating to follow what was going on. With so any competing voices—both internal and external—I wasn’t sure which side I should be rooting for.
Overall, I would give The Rebel series by Lance Erlick a thumbs up. The unique single sex societies along with a strong female lead drove the story forward. If the books are read in chronological order (The Rebel Within, The Rebel Trap and Rebels Divided) I believe the reader will find the series reaches a satisfying conclusion.
What I Liked Most About the Series
The grey area. There are some obvious plus sides to a society made up of a single sex. And there are some obvious down sides. Erlick, through the characters, presents many of these views, but doesn’t push the reader in either direction.
Annabelle. She fits right up there with Katniss and Tris, but Erlick takes her a bit further than Collins took Katniss and Roth took Tris. There’s a complexity to Annabelle as she discovers the dark side of an all female society and starts to actively fight against it. She’s stronger, in my opinion, physically and mentally. The obstacles that break her down do not paralyze her or scare her. You can feel her fighting every inch of the way.
What I Liked Least About the Series
The order of the books. If you read them in publication order, I am almost certain you will be confused because I certainly was! Annabelle is given a mission at the end of book one which is not mentioned in Rebels Divided. The Rebel Trap explores that mission. Now that all three books have been released, I hope that GoodReads will change the series order.
The many voices in The Rebel Trap. While there was good formatting to show you the different voices speaking to Annabelle, it got frustrating to follow what was going on. With so any competing voices—both internal and external—I wasn’t sure which side I should be rooting for.
Overall, I would give The Rebel series by Lance Erlick a thumbs up. The unique single sex societies along with a strong female lead drove the story forward. If the books are read in chronological order (The Rebel Within, The Rebel Trap and Rebels Divided) I believe the reader will find the series reaches a satisfying conclusion.
October 29, 2013
This was a good read overall. It was a good story and plenty of action to keep the book moving along. They were very shocking plot twist that added the story as well. The characters were interesting and well developed. Annabelle was crazy annoying throughout the majority of the book. There were quite a few questions left unanswered. Such as what exactly happened to the documents they were looking for? I thought the ending could've been better as well but overall it was a good read.
Copy courtesy of NetGalley.
Copy courtesy of NetGalley.
February 18, 2014
A dystopian novel aimed at older teens. The premise was interesting, but the follow-through didn't seem to jibe with the behavior of the characters. The leads were believable and inconsistent, must like the average teenager. There is some graphic violence and sexual suggestiveness - particularly regarding same sex relationships - that may bother younger YA/Teen readers.
July 3, 2014
Mr. Erlick makes the world of man against women very believable. The struggles of two types of people that have become alienated further by lack of exposure, different environments, and the propaganda of the greedy make this story full of conflict. I love this book. The characters are engaging and relatable. I read this from cover to cover.
June 22, 2016
Nineteen-year-old Mechanized Warrior Annabelle Scott should kill rebel Geo Shaw during a military operation. Instead, she lets him escape, which mystifies them both. With the nation divided into a female-dominated Federal Union and an Outland wilderness, the Outland warlord and Federal governor conclude a secret deal. It pledges Annabelle to the warlord to provide heirs, a ...more
July 23, 2013
Liked the book overall, it has an interesting take on the guys versus girls struggle and has plot twists which keep it interesting. Looking forward to reading the prequel and waiting for a sequel to hopefully come out.
January 5, 2014
Interesting premise...
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October 19, 2013Review can be found at my Booklikes blog. My copy was received through NetGalley. Two stars.
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