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Stone Rider
In the vein of The Outsiders and the early Western novels of Elmore Leonard, this inventive debut novel, a cross between the cult classic Mad Max movie series and Cormac McCarthy’s The Road, blends adrenaline-fueled action with an improbable yet tender romance to offer a rich and vivid portrayal of misfits and loners forced together in their struggle for a better life.
Adam Stone wants freedom and peace. He wants a chance to escape Blackwater, the dust-bowl desert town he grew up in. Most of all, he wants the beautiful Sadie Blood. Alongside Sadie and the dangerous outsider Kane, Adam will ride the Blackwater Trail in a brutal race that will test them all, body and soul. Only the strongest will survive.
The prize? A one-way ticket to Sky-Base and unimaginable luxury.
And for a chance at this new life, Adam will risk everything.
Adam Stone wants freedom and peace. He wants a chance to escape Blackwater, the dust-bowl desert town he grew up in. Most of all, he wants the beautiful Sadie Blood. Alongside Sadie and the dangerous outsider Kane, Adam will ride the Blackwater Trail in a brutal race that will test them all, body and soul. Only the strongest will survive.
The prize? A one-way ticket to Sky-Base and unimaginable luxury.
And for a chance at this new life, Adam will risk everything.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2015
32 people are currently reading
1025 people want to read
About the author
David Hofmeyr
5 books47 followersDavid Hofmeyr is the award-winning author of The Between and Stone Rider, which has been sold in 17 territories. He was born in South Africa in 1972 and lives in London.
In 2013, David graduated from Bath Spa University with an MA in Writing for Young People. His first book, Stone Rider, was published in 2015.
His books are published by Penguin in the UK, Australia and the Commonwealth, Random House (Delacorte Press) in the US and Canada, Gallimard Jeunesse in France, and DTV in Germany.
In 2016, he won the prestigious Prix Pepites as well as the Grand Prix de l'imaginaire in France. He was also shortlisted for the Branford Boase award.
In 2013, David graduated from Bath Spa University with an MA in Writing for Young People. His first book, Stone Rider, was published in 2015.
His books are published by Penguin in the UK, Australia and the Commonwealth, Random House (Delacorte Press) in the US and Canada, Gallimard Jeunesse in France, and DTV in Germany.
In 2016, he won the prestigious Prix Pepites as well as the Grand Prix de l'imaginaire in France. He was also shortlisted for the Branford Boase award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
December 24, 2017
Consider nociva incadrarea unei carti cu un continut violent de nivelul celei de fata in categoria Y.A.
2,5 stele.
2,5 stele.
August 10, 2021
CW: It's pretty violent in parts
Well that was relentless action with some major Mad Max vibes, yet something was missing.
I can't quite pinpoint why this ended up 'good' as opposed to 'great', but I suspect it's because for most of the story the 'good guys' felt a little bit flat. It was maybe in the last quarter that I actually felt any kind of hope that they might make it out of the many...like numerous...fight for survival situations. It's a pretty grim future that David has created but I don't think I got enough of a feel for the world as the fast pace meant interesting elements were mentioned, but never fully developed. I do think this will have a lot of appeal so am happy to add it to my booktalk shelves.
Well that was relentless action with some major Mad Max vibes, yet something was missing.
I can't quite pinpoint why this ended up 'good' as opposed to 'great', but I suspect it's because for most of the story the 'good guys' felt a little bit flat. It was maybe in the last quarter that I actually felt any kind of hope that they might make it out of the many...like numerous...fight for survival situations. It's a pretty grim future that David has created but I don't think I got enough of a feel for the world as the fast pace meant interesting elements were mentioned, but never fully developed. I do think this will have a lot of appeal so am happy to add it to my booktalk shelves.
July 14, 2015
3.5 stars
I find the distinction between boy books and girl books to be discriminatory and a tiny bit offensive, and yet Stone Rider undeniably aims towards young adult boys as its intended audience. Heavy on the action, violence and technical description and very light on any kind of emotional development, it often reads as a videogame on paper. But by no means is it a bad thing – whatever it tries to do, this book does exceptionally well, and the end result is an unusually written story that has a lot to offer to its readers.
Stone Rider paints us a horrible picture of Earth – a barren, bleak environment with very little mercy for its inhabitants. The smallest possibility of survival comes from two sources – mining or byke racing, and our hero Adam chooses the latter. The races themselves are extremely dangerous with very low survival rates, but the battles begin even earlier. The rivalries are often deadly and the bykes themselves are no joke, but for most people in Blackwater, they’re the only hope for a better life.
Hofmeyr’s writing stands out with its sharpness and simplicity. The short, clipped sentences truly emphasize the sense of imminent danger and the pacing seems even faster thanks to the author’s style. The no-nonsense tone took some getting used to, but it suited the story perfectly.
The fortunately secondary romance leaves a lot to be desired. Mostly it’s a young boy’s admiration for a cool, untouchable girl, a dystopian version of manic pixie dream girl with a pixie haircut and heaps of attitude. There is some development between them, but always at the worst possible moment, and the relationship was more of a burden to this story than anything else.
Oddly, my favorite part were the bykes (although I truly resent the spelling) and their connection to the riders. The technical parts were very well done and it was obvious to me that a lot of thought was put into them. While the romance and the worldbuilding left some room for improvement in future installments, the bykes and the races are pretty much perfect as they are. I have high hopes for the second book. A more solid worldbuilding and stronger character development will make a world of difference for this series.
December 19, 2016
Apocalipsa adusă de un cataclism nuclear ce a lăsat în urmă doar deșerturi lipsite de viață, bântuite de motocicliști (adolescenți, ca să respecte rețeta unui YA de succes) pregătiți să participe la o întrecere pe viață și pe moarte pentru a câștiga un loc în Paradis, adică pe o stație orbitală, de unde cei care s-au refugiat acolo, spuma societății (un fel de romani moderni care asistă și pariază la cursele mortale ale motocicliștilor), îi privesc cu superioritate pe cei rămași să se bată pe resturi. Multă violență și moarte și durere în acest roman pentru adolescenți? Mai multe, pe FanSF: http://wp.me/pz4D9-2xy.
July 9, 2015
I received a copy via the publisher
Short review: I couldn't put this down. It wasn't exceptional, but it was a lot of fun! It wasn't perfect, but it made for a great summer read.
There is an issue, however, that I've noticed regarding this book. Stone Rider may be look at as a "boy" book, but honestly, there's not a lot of those in Young Adult fiction. As a bookseller, it's a tough time finding male-narrated novels for teenage boys to read, because while a lot of them don't mind reading from a female perspective, they also have the right to read from a male's perspective. As a result, whenever a male narrated novel comes along, I'm pretty content.
I find that it's a huge double standard when people complain about a book being a "boy" book, then turn around and complain about boys not wanting to read "girl" books. Why is it okay to accept the thousands of female-narrated books, that are admittedly looked on as "girl" books, and expect both genders to read it, yet when a male-narrated book comes out, it feels "too much like a boy book". If it were up to me, every gender would read both gender-narrated novels, but that can only work if we stop judging books based on the gender of the narrator.
Okay, rant over.
The portrayal of the girl in this story was awesome. She was badass and knew her stuff. However, she then kind of changed suddenly and inexplicably. It was a little hard to believe the love story, but I wasn't really reading this for the romance. The storyline was occasionally predictable, but it was still such a unique idea that I didn't really mind.
I didn't think I would enjoy this as much as I did, but I was completely into it. There were moments where the writing was lyrical and times when I could completely see what the author was trying to say. I will probably read whatever David Hofmeyr writes next, simply because his writing was so engaging. I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a light, adventure-filled read.
happy reading!
Short review: I couldn't put this down. It wasn't exceptional, but it was a lot of fun! It wasn't perfect, but it made for a great summer read.
There is an issue, however, that I've noticed regarding this book. Stone Rider may be look at as a "boy" book, but honestly, there's not a lot of those in Young Adult fiction. As a bookseller, it's a tough time finding male-narrated novels for teenage boys to read, because while a lot of them don't mind reading from a female perspective, they also have the right to read from a male's perspective. As a result, whenever a male narrated novel comes along, I'm pretty content.
I find that it's a huge double standard when people complain about a book being a "boy" book, then turn around and complain about boys not wanting to read "girl" books. Why is it okay to accept the thousands of female-narrated books, that are admittedly looked on as "girl" books, and expect both genders to read it, yet when a male-narrated book comes out, it feels "too much like a boy book". If it were up to me, every gender would read both gender-narrated novels, but that can only work if we stop judging books based on the gender of the narrator.
Okay, rant over.
The portrayal of the girl in this story was awesome. She was badass and knew her stuff. However, she then kind of changed suddenly and inexplicably. It was a little hard to believe the love story, but I wasn't really reading this for the romance. The storyline was occasionally predictable, but it was still such a unique idea that I didn't really mind.
I didn't think I would enjoy this as much as I did, but I was completely into it. There were moments where the writing was lyrical and times when I could completely see what the author was trying to say. I will probably read whatever David Hofmeyr writes next, simply because his writing was so engaging. I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a light, adventure-filled read.
happy reading!
July 19, 2015
The first thing that caught my eye was the cover for Stone Rider. I loved the cracked look of the cover that depicts the hardened landscape of the books setting. The title stands out beautifully in stark contrast of color and texture. This is such a great cover and so unique compared to the many YA books out there.
Now on to the story....
Well let's just say that I read this book in one night, in one sitting. It grabbed my attention immediately, and didn't let go until the last page was turned. The world that David Hofmeyr has created in Stone Rider is extremely unique and well wrought. This setting of the old-west meets a futuristic burned out world where the people try to win a pass by winning the Vodden Circuit or earn enough points by winning other smaller races to earn a ticket to Sky Base. This is supposedly a man-made "paradise" above earth where the air is clean and the people live MUCH longer. It is where everyone left on earth wants to go, though no one who has ever earned a ticket has ever come back, so the people on earth don't REALLY know what it's like up there.
Hofmeyr has even included parts of "The Rider's Code" at the back of the book, which I loved, as I could refer to that anytime I needed a bit of explanation as to the working of the "bykes", these incredible biomechanical entities that are passed down from parent to child. The way the "swing" is preformed, a kind of deadly sling-shot and weapon of choice in this world and during the circuits(or races). I found it to all be so fascinating and unique, and yet completely believable.
This leads to the writing. Hofmeyr has a way of writing...his world building, characterization, and those edge of your seat moments that I really feel made this book work so well. I don't think another author could have taken this same concept/world and made it seem like it actually exists somewhere, which is how I felt while reading.
I loved the characters! Adam, Sadie, and especially Kane(As I knew so little about him and he was such a mystery!). They each have their own struggles and secrets, which made the book that much more suspenseful. All in all this is one of my favorite books ever, and though I don't know yet whether a sequel is coming...I honestly feel that it works so perfectly as a stand-alone. Though as I am a greedy reader of this amazing world that Hofmeyr has built, I would most definitely pick up a sequel, companion novel, or ANYTHING that he writes next!
I truly believe that everyone should give this book a chance. It is so surprising in its depth of emotion and suspense...I just can't recommend Stone Rider enough!
Now on to the story....
Well let's just say that I read this book in one night, in one sitting. It grabbed my attention immediately, and didn't let go until the last page was turned. The world that David Hofmeyr has created in Stone Rider is extremely unique and well wrought. This setting of the old-west meets a futuristic burned out world where the people try to win a pass by winning the Vodden Circuit or earn enough points by winning other smaller races to earn a ticket to Sky Base. This is supposedly a man-made "paradise" above earth where the air is clean and the people live MUCH longer. It is where everyone left on earth wants to go, though no one who has ever earned a ticket has ever come back, so the people on earth don't REALLY know what it's like up there.
Hofmeyr has even included parts of "The Rider's Code" at the back of the book, which I loved, as I could refer to that anytime I needed a bit of explanation as to the working of the "bykes", these incredible biomechanical entities that are passed down from parent to child. The way the "swing" is preformed, a kind of deadly sling-shot and weapon of choice in this world and during the circuits(or races). I found it to all be so fascinating and unique, and yet completely believable.
This leads to the writing. Hofmeyr has a way of writing...his world building, characterization, and those edge of your seat moments that I really feel made this book work so well. I don't think another author could have taken this same concept/world and made it seem like it actually exists somewhere, which is how I felt while reading.
I loved the characters! Adam, Sadie, and especially Kane(As I knew so little about him and he was such a mystery!). They each have their own struggles and secrets, which made the book that much more suspenseful. All in all this is one of my favorite books ever, and though I don't know yet whether a sequel is coming...I honestly feel that it works so perfectly as a stand-alone. Though as I am a greedy reader of this amazing world that Hofmeyr has built, I would most definitely pick up a sequel, companion novel, or ANYTHING that he writes next!
I truly believe that everyone should give this book a chance. It is so surprising in its depth of emotion and suspense...I just can't recommend Stone Rider enough!
February 25, 2018
Thanks to Storia Books for sending me this review copy, this hadn't in any way influenced my rating or my review!
You can check out my Romanian review on my blog : https://thecursedbooks.wordpress.com/...
I will start off by saying that this book is probably more of a 3.5 stars for me. When I first started this book, I had doubts about whether I’d like it because of the subject – it seemed like it would be too focused on motorcycles and technical stuff, which aren’t my cup of tea, usually. But my expectations were quite exceeded, this book turning out to be quite entertaining.
This book presents us a very desolate version of our world, most people moved to a Sky Base that is described as a paradise, while the others are down on earth with few resources and their only way of survival is by working in the mine or joining in a very dangerous ride where the winner could obtain a ticket to the Sky Base and therefore, to a better life.
I would describe it as The Hunger Games meets Mad Max Fury Road.
THE PLOT
I think the biggest plot line was the race and that was also what kept things thrilling. I kept on reading to see whether they will pass the obstacles or not, who they will meet in the adventure and who will die next. It was quite fast-paced and I enjoyed it very much, it made up for quite a lot of other things that weren’t as developed.
I also really liked the world-building, I thought it was an interesting idea to make this dystopian world and mix it up with motorcycles competitions. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it done before in YA, so props for that!
There were many plot twists along the way and some big reveals. There was this funny instance when a guy said he doesn’t like a girl in a romantic way and Adam (the protagonist) was a bit shocked and the other guy (Kane) is like : “you really don’t know??” – I thought this was a love confession and Kane admitting he was gay. Apparently, it wasn’t. It was something more dramatic than that. I was a bit shocked, here I thought I’m getting a f/m/m love triangle, only to have a rather weird explanation thrown in my face.
Besides that, I really loved how there was this freaking amazing tribe – they had such cool healing abilities and I was so sad that the heroes didn’t spend more time there. I would have loved to see more of them as there were some future-telling involved there, which I usually hate – because wow, the hero is getting a prophecy, so original. But this time, it actually worked because I couldn’t guess what would happen based on that prophecy.
THE CHARACTERS
I feel like the characters were quite one-dimensional, at times. There are so many things that I still don’t know about those characters and I’m sure if the author wrote Stone Rider with a sequel in mind, but their development was meh.
Sadie is probably the best example, she’s the only woman in a cast full of men and at times, she seems to be just hot and brave. She has the “not-like-other-girls” syndrome written all over her and that’s because of how she’s portrayed, not because of anything she says.
Adam was also kind of the special snow-flake, but he was also the underdog type and I don’t know about you, but I usually root for the underdogs, misfits. I would have loved to see more explanations concerning his fainting – there was absolutely none. But that’s probably understandable since they don’t have many resources, including medical ones, but he was in a dispensary at some point, I was really expecting then to find out what’s causing them since it would have been a pretty good representation.
Kane was probably my favourite because besides the fact that he was very mysterious, he was really resourceful – always helping Adam and Sadie, always having a plan B. I really liked him and found his backstory very interesting. I can’t talk much about it because there are spoilers, but it was amazing. He surely made this book a lot better for me.
I think the characters weren’t as developed as I would have liked because the author kind of focused a lot more on the plot. It’s a plot-focused book and that’s not bad since the plot is actually great and visibly well-thought.
OVERALL
All in all, this book exceeded my expectations. I know that I might have sounded a bit critical, but bear in mind that this book is waaaay out of my comfort zone and if I gave it 3.5 stars, someone who thinks motorcycles and rides are badass will probably rate it so much higher.
You can check out my Romanian review on my blog : https://thecursedbooks.wordpress.com/...
I will start off by saying that this book is probably more of a 3.5 stars for me. When I first started this book, I had doubts about whether I’d like it because of the subject – it seemed like it would be too focused on motorcycles and technical stuff, which aren’t my cup of tea, usually. But my expectations were quite exceeded, this book turning out to be quite entertaining.
This book presents us a very desolate version of our world, most people moved to a Sky Base that is described as a paradise, while the others are down on earth with few resources and their only way of survival is by working in the mine or joining in a very dangerous ride where the winner could obtain a ticket to the Sky Base and therefore, to a better life.
I would describe it as The Hunger Games meets Mad Max Fury Road.
THE PLOT
I think the biggest plot line was the race and that was also what kept things thrilling. I kept on reading to see whether they will pass the obstacles or not, who they will meet in the adventure and who will die next. It was quite fast-paced and I enjoyed it very much, it made up for quite a lot of other things that weren’t as developed.
I also really liked the world-building, I thought it was an interesting idea to make this dystopian world and mix it up with motorcycles competitions. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it done before in YA, so props for that!
There were many plot twists along the way and some big reveals. There was this funny instance when a guy said he doesn’t like a girl in a romantic way and Adam (the protagonist) was a bit shocked and the other guy (Kane) is like : “you really don’t know??” – I thought this was a love confession and Kane admitting he was gay. Apparently, it wasn’t. It was something more dramatic than that. I was a bit shocked, here I thought I’m getting a f/m/m love triangle, only to have a rather weird explanation thrown in my face.
Besides that, I really loved how there was this freaking amazing tribe – they had such cool healing abilities and I was so sad that the heroes didn’t spend more time there. I would have loved to see more of them as there were some future-telling involved there, which I usually hate – because wow, the hero is getting a prophecy, so original. But this time, it actually worked because I couldn’t guess what would happen based on that prophecy.
THE CHARACTERS
I feel like the characters were quite one-dimensional, at times. There are so many things that I still don’t know about those characters and I’m sure if the author wrote Stone Rider with a sequel in mind, but their development was meh.
Sadie is probably the best example, she’s the only woman in a cast full of men and at times, she seems to be just hot and brave. She has the “not-like-other-girls” syndrome written all over her and that’s because of how she’s portrayed, not because of anything she says.
Adam was also kind of the special snow-flake, but he was also the underdog type and I don’t know about you, but I usually root for the underdogs, misfits. I would have loved to see more explanations concerning his fainting – there was absolutely none. But that’s probably understandable since they don’t have many resources, including medical ones, but he was in a dispensary at some point, I was really expecting then to find out what’s causing them since it would have been a pretty good representation.
Kane was probably my favourite because besides the fact that he was very mysterious, he was really resourceful – always helping Adam and Sadie, always having a plan B. I really liked him and found his backstory very interesting. I can’t talk much about it because there are spoilers, but it was amazing. He surely made this book a lot better for me.
I think the characters weren’t as developed as I would have liked because the author kind of focused a lot more on the plot. It’s a plot-focused book and that’s not bad since the plot is actually great and visibly well-thought.
OVERALL
All in all, this book exceeded my expectations. I know that I might have sounded a bit critical, but bear in mind that this book is waaaay out of my comfort zone and if I gave it 3.5 stars, someone who thinks motorcycles and rides are badass will probably rate it so much higher.
August 3, 2015
“Stone Rider” is an excellent book that can fit into many genres at one time. It’s like a western met a dystopian and then decided to create a West Side Storyesque production. I’ve never read anything like it.
The characters are all interesting and surprising. At the beginning they may appear to be stereotypical, but as the story goes on their depth is revealed. However, that is not to say that they are extremely well-developed. The book is written like the old westerns. You learn what you need to, when you need to, and the rest of the book is devoted to the action. This could be seen as a flaw, but I appreciate that the book is designed to be as sleek as the “bykes” used in the race around which the plot centers.
The flow of the book is amazing. The beginning is a little slow, but only by comparison to the rest of it. That is because Part I takes the time to set up pretty much all you will learn about the world. Once you begin Part II it becomes something of a marathon read. There is never time to take your breath. Do not begin it if you have something else to do in the next few hours. There is quite a bit of violence, but that is to be expected in a mostly lawless society.
In short, “Stone Rider” is a fun and exciting read. In spite of the streamlined storytelling, there are many challenging words to help expand vocabulary for younger readers. Since this a book well-suited for reluctant readers, that is a huge plus. Highly recommended for any upper middle-grade reader through to adults.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are all interesting and surprising. At the beginning they may appear to be stereotypical, but as the story goes on their depth is revealed. However, that is not to say that they are extremely well-developed. The book is written like the old westerns. You learn what you need to, when you need to, and the rest of the book is devoted to the action. This could be seen as a flaw, but I appreciate that the book is designed to be as sleek as the “bykes” used in the race around which the plot centers.
The flow of the book is amazing. The beginning is a little slow, but only by comparison to the rest of it. That is because Part I takes the time to set up pretty much all you will learn about the world. Once you begin Part II it becomes something of a marathon read. There is never time to take your breath. Do not begin it if you have something else to do in the next few hours. There is quite a bit of violence, but that is to be expected in a mostly lawless society.
In short, “Stone Rider” is a fun and exciting read. In spite of the streamlined storytelling, there are many challenging words to help expand vocabulary for younger readers. Since this a book well-suited for reluctant readers, that is a huge plus. Highly recommended for any upper middle-grade reader through to adults.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2015
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This was an excellent read. Touted as a Wild West meets Mad Max Bildungsroman, Stone Rider lived up to my expectations. Adam lives in a brutal and violent future where you mine the precious commodity at the Earth's core or you race. Adam comes from a line of racers - men who risk their lives in a dangerous trek across a wasteland reminiscent of the Wild West. Expect a vicious and brutal adventure where a boy who thinks his best chance is found in trusting no one, learns the importance of friendship and support. I liked Adam. His biggest weakness is his empathy for fellow man, and like any good person, he pays for that soft spot again and again. I loved the way he was able to grow as a character but retain the best parts of himself in the process. I also liked the cast of secondary characters. Adam's love interest is one tough chick, and while she had her own limitations, I found her a lady warrior that I could admire. Kane, Adam's enigmatic ally, however, is the stuff my sometimes still girlish dreams are made of! While I am fangirling, please don't make the mistake of thinking this is a "girl" book. This is definitely one the guys will appreciate. It is fast paced, taking readers through the highs and lows of the hero's journey, and the ending was a coin toss right up until the end. There were a lot of corpses littering the desert road of this race, and those who didn't die might sometimes wish they had. I have already started talking it up to my students, giving them the heads up about its summer publication. I can't wait until I can get a copy in my classroom library because I know it is going to be a big hit with high school readers of both genders. I know my high school librarian is going to want a copy as well. Language and situations are probably grade 9+, but I think that blood thirsty middle schoolers will devour it and learn some important lessons about what it means to be tough in the process. As an adult reader, I found I couldn't put it down.
July 23, 2015
3.5 stars
I don’t usually pay too much attention to the comparisons that publishers make when describing books, but in the case of Stone Rider, Mad Max meets The Road is a very accurate description. With a bare bones narrative style, Stone Rider tells the story of three riders who take on a no holds barred race across a dessert wasteland for a chance at a better life. This is the premise that you understand going in, but what I found as I read the book was that the motivations of each rider really went beyond being able to leave the dusty, barren wasteland where they live. Adam, Sadie, and Kane are all a little broken and they have found each other in a place where avoiding people is probably smarter. They form a bond that gave Stone Rider that emotional spark that is sometimes missing form post-apocalyptic stories, but was certainly present in this book.
The world of Stone Rider is extremely brutal. Environmental ruin, societal breakdown, and no real safety from anything gives the reader an idea of why someone might put themselves through such an ordeal when the chances of winning are so slim. There is definitely a western feel to this story. Bykes replace horses, and Adams relationship with his byke certainly echos that which you might find between a cowboy and his horse. While we are primarily following Adam’s story, I also loved Sadie and Kane. They make an unlikely triumvirate, but, as a very nice twist at the end reveals, it seems that they share more of a connection that you might think. Stone Rider combined thrill-a-minute action, good world building, and a compelling story into a debut that fans of grittier post-apocalyptic books will definitely enjoy.
I don’t usually pay too much attention to the comparisons that publishers make when describing books, but in the case of Stone Rider, Mad Max meets The Road is a very accurate description. With a bare bones narrative style, Stone Rider tells the story of three riders who take on a no holds barred race across a dessert wasteland for a chance at a better life. This is the premise that you understand going in, but what I found as I read the book was that the motivations of each rider really went beyond being able to leave the dusty, barren wasteland where they live. Adam, Sadie, and Kane are all a little broken and they have found each other in a place where avoiding people is probably smarter. They form a bond that gave Stone Rider that emotional spark that is sometimes missing form post-apocalyptic stories, but was certainly present in this book.
The world of Stone Rider is extremely brutal. Environmental ruin, societal breakdown, and no real safety from anything gives the reader an idea of why someone might put themselves through such an ordeal when the chances of winning are so slim. There is definitely a western feel to this story. Bykes replace horses, and Adams relationship with his byke certainly echos that which you might find between a cowboy and his horse. While we are primarily following Adam’s story, I also loved Sadie and Kane. They make an unlikely triumvirate, but, as a very nice twist at the end reveals, it seems that they share more of a connection that you might think. Stone Rider combined thrill-a-minute action, good world building, and a compelling story into a debut that fans of grittier post-apocalyptic books will definitely enjoy.
May 26, 2015
David Hofmeyr's Stone Rider is the type of book that keeps coming at you and doesn't let up even as you hit the end. The story is pretty basic. To get out of no kind of life on the planet Earth sometime in the future where the air is toxic, one needs to win a potentially deadly byke race through a harsh desert landscape. Adam, the main character, has lost plenty and finds he has nothing to lose by entering the race. Along the way he must do battle with both inner and outer forces but gets some help along the way.
The action takes short breaks now and then to allow for world building and character development, but the latter two items are really just stop gaps for more action. There are few moments to catch one's breath in Stone Rider, but the action heavy text does not suffer overly much as this keeps the book more streamlined. Those looking for a solid world build or more character development will be disappointed as there's just enough to keep interest but plenty that goes unanswered. The author himself states in a short interview section at the rear of the book that he was going for something that's a bit Westerns of his youth meets the futuristic of Blade Runner and Mad Max. Hofmeyr delivers on that promise in Stone Rider. Once you start, it's hard to put down and once you hit the end, well, you'll certainly be hoping for more.
Note: ARC received via Amazon Vine in exchange for review.
The action takes short breaks now and then to allow for world building and character development, but the latter two items are really just stop gaps for more action. There are few moments to catch one's breath in Stone Rider, but the action heavy text does not suffer overly much as this keeps the book more streamlined. Those looking for a solid world build or more character development will be disappointed as there's just enough to keep interest but plenty that goes unanswered. The author himself states in a short interview section at the rear of the book that he was going for something that's a bit Westerns of his youth meets the futuristic of Blade Runner and Mad Max. Hofmeyr delivers on that promise in Stone Rider. Once you start, it's hard to put down and once you hit the end, well, you'll certainly be hoping for more.
Note: ARC received via Amazon Vine in exchange for review.
July 27, 2015
The beginning of this book was so intriguing that i couldn't help but be pulled into its pages. I kept having flash backs of Mad Max which made me appreciate Adam's journey even more. He's one fierce character and it was always an adventure, filled with action and danger where he was concerned. I fell completely in love with the world that David created.
I couldn't imagine being in Adam's shoes and it's no wonder he did everything in his power to escape Blackwater. Seeing life through his eyes was downright fascinating and I felt like I was on a never-ending roller coaster with non-stop action. I can't forget to mention Sadie and Kane and how I enjoyed delving more and more into their characterizations as the story progressed.
I was completely caught off guard at how much I enjoyed this book. The time and pages just flew by as I gobbled up this story. I would without a doubt pick up the next book that this author publishes!
I couldn't imagine being in Adam's shoes and it's no wonder he did everything in his power to escape Blackwater. Seeing life through his eyes was downright fascinating and I felt like I was on a never-ending roller coaster with non-stop action. I can't forget to mention Sadie and Kane and how I enjoyed delving more and more into their characterizations as the story progressed.
I was completely caught off guard at how much I enjoyed this book. The time and pages just flew by as I gobbled up this story. I would without a doubt pick up the next book that this author publishes!
May 27, 2015
A novel of a byke race with a huge prize: Sky-Base and a life of luxury away from the drudgery of the mine. A course thousands of miles of waste lands, obstacle courses, traps, the only weapon allowed a sling.
And you'd need it. There were outlaws in the waste lands, cannibals, wolves, and the other contestants.
Adam Stone didn't plan to race originally. He had a byke, one his brother had rode until the accident had taken a leg. He wanted to stay for his brother. Then an enemy, Levi Blood, son of the Colonel, and his Scorpions had attacked and left his brother dead!
Revenge in mind. And winning the Race.
Others in the Race were Sadie Blood, sister of Levi, who Adamloved and the mysterious Kane, who helps Adam with Levi, saves Adam's life, and disappears at odd times.
Pretty good read with a couple of twists along the way.
And you'd need it. There were outlaws in the waste lands, cannibals, wolves, and the other contestants.
Adam Stone didn't plan to race originally. He had a byke, one his brother had rode until the accident had taken a leg. He wanted to stay for his brother. Then an enemy, Levi Blood, son of the Colonel, and his Scorpions had attacked and left his brother dead!
Revenge in mind. And winning the Race.
Others in the Race were Sadie Blood, sister of Levi, who Adamloved and the mysterious Kane, who helps Adam with Levi, saves Adam's life, and disappears at odd times.
Pretty good read with a couple of twists along the way.
June 17, 2015
Small disclaimer: I've worked in advertising with David for a long time and seen his evolution from authorly planner to published author.
It's the first time I've ever read a fictional book written by someone I know and I was surprised at how quickly I stopped hearing David's voice as I read and got immersed in this fantastic, violent world. The economy of his language is impressive as the characters and race are so vivid. I don't usually read YA fiction and was surprised that it's bleak yet full of emotion and action. it's a great achievement.
It's the first time I've ever read a fictional book written by someone I know and I was surprised at how quickly I stopped hearing David's voice as I read and got immersed in this fantastic, violent world. The economy of his language is impressive as the characters and race are so vivid. I don't usually read YA fiction and was surprised that it's bleak yet full of emotion and action. it's a great achievement.
July 16, 2015
Surprisingly I really liked this book it's very unique and different. This book is a gritty dystopian/scifi with a feel of hunger games to it. Right off the back I liked the main character, the fast pace and the world building is amazing. Non Stop action so it was a fast read for me. Definitely put this on your TBR. The companion novel comes out next year; so hopefully it's a continuation of this awesome story.
July 30, 2015
This is an adventure, a journey of loss and friendship and love and finally being the person you are meant to be. I really like the old western feel to it.
July 18, 2015
My BookTube review https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=f1QvBw2... :)
July 29, 2015
I think boys will even love this more. I hope there are more stories. There wasn't a cliff hanger,thank god, i just wanna read about what could happen in the future with everyone, even Kane!
October 4, 2016
INHALT:
Der Blackwater-Trail: Ein Rennen auf Leben und Tod.
Es ist heiß und trocken, die Luft staubig und giftig, der ganze Planet zerstört und verödet, das Leben hart und karg. Doch es gibt einen Ort, wo alles anders ist: die Sky-Base. Und man kann sich ein Ticket dorthin verdienen, indem man an dem berüchtigten Blackwater-Trail, dem härtesten Motorradrennen der Welt, teilnimmt – überlebt und gewinnt. Die Chancen: minimal. Das Risiko:
lebensgefährlich. Und doch hat Adam nicht viel zu verlieren. Zunächst. Doch dann geht er wider besseren Wissens Allianzen ein, schließt Freundschaften, verliebt sich sogar. Damit macht er sich verwundbar. Und plötzlich hat er alles zu verlieren...
KURZE EINBLICKE:
Adam steigt auf sein Byke, setzt die Schutzbrille und Luftfiltermaske auf. Er holt das Geld aus seiner Hosentasche und schiebt es in das Geheimfach in der Sohle seine Stiefels. Dann lässt er den Motor an und genießt die Vibration in seinen Händen.
Auf dem Byke ist alles anders. Nur im Sattel fühlt er sich frei.
Der Motor pulsiert. Der heißt Westwind fährt ihm ins Gesicht. Die Sonne brennt auf seinem Nacken. Und schon hat er den verrückten alten Dagg vergessen.
Seite 22
" ... Zur Hölle noch mal, wenn ihr unbedingt die Wahrheit hören will: Die meisten werden es nicht schaffen. Aber ihr alle werdet in dieser Hitze da draußen etwas über euch selbst lernen. Die Baulands werden euch Fragen stellen. Und es braucht Mut, um die Antworten zu finden. Ihr werdet begreifen, aus welchem Holz ihr gemacht seid. Ihr werdet lernen, ob ihr Feuer im Herzen habt. Oder nicht. Und es gibt keine wertvollere Lektion als diese. Es gibt kein Leben wie das während des Rennens. Ihr werdet euch nie lebendiger fühlen. Das ist euer Moment. Ergreift ihn oder verendet im Staub!"
Seite 124
Adam betrachtet die Schamanen. Sie trägt immer noch den breitkrempigen Hut. Eine Perlenkette liegt eng um ihren Hals. Die grünen und durchdringenden Augen und ihre ockergelb bemalten Wannenknochen werden von der Hutkrempe beschattet. Ihre Zähne sind rot vom Saft der Betelnuss.
Seite 220
MEINE MEINUNG:
Der Autor gehörte 2012 zu den Finalisten des Wettbewerbs Undiscoverd Voice - und wie er hier zeigt zurecht!
Er erschafft hier eine dystopische Wüstenlandschaft die staubiger und trockener nicht sein könnte. Hinzu kommt der reelle Schreibstil der mich ebenfalls dursten lies und ohne große Gefühle erstmal sehr heiß wurde.
Das Setting ist hier sehr bildhaft beschrieben und man weiß wo jeder Stein liegt, wo jedes Wasserloch und wo die Gefahren lauern. Und davon gibt es eine Menge! Nicht nur, dass wir es hier in der Stadt mit Motorradgangs zu tun haben, nein wir treffen während des Rennens auch auf Nomaden, Schamanen und Kanibalen. Ganz zu schweigen von den ganzen Rivalen und Intrigen die so ein Rennen auf Leben und Tod mit sich bringt.
Ihr merkt, langweilig wird einem hier sich nicht. Den wer hier noch nicht genug Nervenkitzel verspürt kann mit einer kleinen Liebelei die in Form einer Mechanikerin hier auftritt rechnen. Eine Frau, ganz nach meinem Geschmack die nicht nur anpacken kann sondern selbst auch an dem Rennen teil nimmt und sich beweisen möchte.
Adam ist ein 15 jähriger Junge der viel zu schnell erwachsen werden musste. Allein gelassen von seiner toten Mutter und seinem verstorbenen Vater ist er für seinen Bruder da, der das Rennen bereits schon gefahren ist und es fast auch mit seinem Leben bezahlen durfte. So muss Adam größtenteils für den Lebensunterhalt der beiden Jungs sorgen. Frank, sein großer Bruder unterstützt ihn zwar wo er nur kann, aber mit seinem Handikap ist das gar nicht so einfach!
Aber was wichtig ist, er lässt Adam seinen Traum vom Rennen und ermutigt ihn, gibt ihm Tipps und Tricks wie er es besser machen kann als er damals.
Nur ist Adam alles andere als Mutig! Wenn Sadie, die ansässige Mechanikerin wüsste was er für sie empfinden würde, würde er sich wahrscheinlich in Grund und Boden schämen - den er ist ein nichts!
Ein Stone- dessen Vater selbstmord begangen hat und er ohne etwas dasteht. Außer seinem Byke - eines der Besten das von Generation zu Generation weitergegeben wird.
Und jetzt ist er am Zug!
Zu guter Letzt hat mich das Buch so sehr gefesselt, dass ich sogar das offensichtliche übersah und es mich wirklich überrumpeln konnte!
Für mich hat der Autor hier absolut alles richtig gemacht und ich hoffe das ich diese Geschichte - die noch sehr viel potenzial für mehr hat - auf deutsch weiterlesen darf!
Der Blackwater-Trail: Ein Rennen auf Leben und Tod.
Es ist heiß und trocken, die Luft staubig und giftig, der ganze Planet zerstört und verödet, das Leben hart und karg. Doch es gibt einen Ort, wo alles anders ist: die Sky-Base. Und man kann sich ein Ticket dorthin verdienen, indem man an dem berüchtigten Blackwater-Trail, dem härtesten Motorradrennen der Welt, teilnimmt – überlebt und gewinnt. Die Chancen: minimal. Das Risiko:
lebensgefährlich. Und doch hat Adam nicht viel zu verlieren. Zunächst. Doch dann geht er wider besseren Wissens Allianzen ein, schließt Freundschaften, verliebt sich sogar. Damit macht er sich verwundbar. Und plötzlich hat er alles zu verlieren...
KURZE EINBLICKE:
Adam steigt auf sein Byke, setzt die Schutzbrille und Luftfiltermaske auf. Er holt das Geld aus seiner Hosentasche und schiebt es in das Geheimfach in der Sohle seine Stiefels. Dann lässt er den Motor an und genießt die Vibration in seinen Händen.
Auf dem Byke ist alles anders. Nur im Sattel fühlt er sich frei.
Der Motor pulsiert. Der heißt Westwind fährt ihm ins Gesicht. Die Sonne brennt auf seinem Nacken. Und schon hat er den verrückten alten Dagg vergessen.
Seite 22
" ... Zur Hölle noch mal, wenn ihr unbedingt die Wahrheit hören will: Die meisten werden es nicht schaffen. Aber ihr alle werdet in dieser Hitze da draußen etwas über euch selbst lernen. Die Baulands werden euch Fragen stellen. Und es braucht Mut, um die Antworten zu finden. Ihr werdet begreifen, aus welchem Holz ihr gemacht seid. Ihr werdet lernen, ob ihr Feuer im Herzen habt. Oder nicht. Und es gibt keine wertvollere Lektion als diese. Es gibt kein Leben wie das während des Rennens. Ihr werdet euch nie lebendiger fühlen. Das ist euer Moment. Ergreift ihn oder verendet im Staub!"
Seite 124
Adam betrachtet die Schamanen. Sie trägt immer noch den breitkrempigen Hut. Eine Perlenkette liegt eng um ihren Hals. Die grünen und durchdringenden Augen und ihre ockergelb bemalten Wannenknochen werden von der Hutkrempe beschattet. Ihre Zähne sind rot vom Saft der Betelnuss.
Seite 220
MEINE MEINUNG:
Der Autor gehörte 2012 zu den Finalisten des Wettbewerbs Undiscoverd Voice - und wie er hier zeigt zurecht!
Er erschafft hier eine dystopische Wüstenlandschaft die staubiger und trockener nicht sein könnte. Hinzu kommt der reelle Schreibstil der mich ebenfalls dursten lies und ohne große Gefühle erstmal sehr heiß wurde.
Das Setting ist hier sehr bildhaft beschrieben und man weiß wo jeder Stein liegt, wo jedes Wasserloch und wo die Gefahren lauern. Und davon gibt es eine Menge! Nicht nur, dass wir es hier in der Stadt mit Motorradgangs zu tun haben, nein wir treffen während des Rennens auch auf Nomaden, Schamanen und Kanibalen. Ganz zu schweigen von den ganzen Rivalen und Intrigen die so ein Rennen auf Leben und Tod mit sich bringt.
Ihr merkt, langweilig wird einem hier sich nicht. Den wer hier noch nicht genug Nervenkitzel verspürt kann mit einer kleinen Liebelei die in Form einer Mechanikerin hier auftritt rechnen. Eine Frau, ganz nach meinem Geschmack die nicht nur anpacken kann sondern selbst auch an dem Rennen teil nimmt und sich beweisen möchte.
Adam ist ein 15 jähriger Junge der viel zu schnell erwachsen werden musste. Allein gelassen von seiner toten Mutter und seinem verstorbenen Vater ist er für seinen Bruder da, der das Rennen bereits schon gefahren ist und es fast auch mit seinem Leben bezahlen durfte. So muss Adam größtenteils für den Lebensunterhalt der beiden Jungs sorgen. Frank, sein großer Bruder unterstützt ihn zwar wo er nur kann, aber mit seinem Handikap ist das gar nicht so einfach!
Aber was wichtig ist, er lässt Adam seinen Traum vom Rennen und ermutigt ihn, gibt ihm Tipps und Tricks wie er es besser machen kann als er damals.
Nur ist Adam alles andere als Mutig! Wenn Sadie, die ansässige Mechanikerin wüsste was er für sie empfinden würde, würde er sich wahrscheinlich in Grund und Boden schämen - den er ist ein nichts!
Ein Stone- dessen Vater selbstmord begangen hat und er ohne etwas dasteht. Außer seinem Byke - eines der Besten das von Generation zu Generation weitergegeben wird.
Und jetzt ist er am Zug!
Zu guter Letzt hat mich das Buch so sehr gefesselt, dass ich sogar das offensichtliche übersah und es mich wirklich überrumpeln konnte!
Für mich hat der Autor hier absolut alles richtig gemacht und ich hoffe das ich diese Geschichte - die noch sehr viel potenzial für mehr hat - auf deutsch weiterlesen darf!
January 20, 2016
Stone Rider isn't normally the type of book I would choose for myself, but when I had the opportunity to read and review an advance copy, I decided to take a chance based on the completely intriguing summary. It's a complete understatement for me to say that I am SO glad I decided to read this book.
From the very start, I got a serious Mad Max vibe from this book, and because of that, I was totally hooked. I absolutely loved the crazy intense and weird landscape of Mad Max: Fury Road, so I was thrilled to get that same level of obsessive feelings from the just the first chapter of Stone Rider. This book is a total ride, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Hofmeyr takes the familiar dystopian trope and breathes a whole new unique life into it. His crazy world is equal parts Mad Max and Wild West, which makes for an intriguing environment. And in Adam Stone, the main character, Hofmeyr gives us a deeply wounded character looking for a way out of his current situation. He's willing to risk everything to escape, and in order to do so, he enters a dangerous and life changing contest. I loved Adam's vulnerability, his bravery and his determination; and I wanted nothing more than to see him overcome it all in the end.
This book is pretty intense in spots and can get a little violent for some readers. I personally loved it, and thought it added another important layer to the reading experience, but I just thought I should put that out there for people who may be a little more sensitive to that kind of thing. It totally worked for me, but may not for others.
I absolutely loved a twist that comes at certain point during the book. I don't want to say when, because I don't want to spoil anything, but I was absolutely shocked and it took Stone Rider to whole new level for me. It absolutely made me love the book even more, and I cannot wait for the next installment in this series because I CANNOT wait to find out what happens next. There's so much potential for an even more intense second installment.
PRepare yourselves for the ultimate in dystopian adventure with this one! It's a heart-pounding and wild ride perfect for any fan of epic action and suspense. Stone RIders is AMAZIng!
This review was originally posted on what sarah read...
July 14, 2015
3.5 Stars
'Stone Rider' is a gripping and fast paced novel that will have readers eagerly turning each page to see what will happen next! The story follows main character, Adam Stone, who dreams of leaving his desert hometown for the luxurious Sky-Base. The only way for Adam to have a chance of going to live on Sky-Base is to race the Blackwater Trail - and win. He's not alone in his determination to beat the course - the dangerous Kane is racing against him, along with Sadie Blood - Adam's longtime crush. The Blackwater Trail is meant to break the contestants - body and soul - and will test each of them in ways they never dreamed. But only the strongest will survive the race and be given a ticket to Sky-Base. Will Adam be able to beat both Kane and Sadie in the race? Just how badly does Adam want to leave this life behind and start fresh on Sky-Base? What is he willing to do to ensure he wins the race?
I thought that this was a strong debut novel that shows a lot of promise for the author. It turned not to be something I was really into, but that's all on me - not the book. The description basically tells the majority of the story - it's about these teens who enter a really hard dirtbike race, and all of the obstacles and situations they encounter along the way. The characters were well written with distinctive personalities and traits, especially the main character Adam, and the secondary characters of Kane and Sadie. I liked watching each of their characters reveal a little bit more about themselves throughout the book. Their interactions with one another and during the race proved to be interesting to watch as well. I enjoyed getting to know each of them on a deeper level throughout the story.
The story is full of action and adventure - which isn't surprising due to the plot - as well as a bit of romance. The story takes place in a dystopian world that's been basically reduced to desert. The majority of the residents in the town where Adam lives have oxygen masks or air filter masks that they use to help get clean air - instead of the acrid, dust filled air that surrounds them. I didn't think there was a lot of world building - especially when it came to the town or other towns around them. We don't get a clear picture of what this place is like, except for the trail - which is the main focus of the story. When I read dystopian novels, I want to be able to slip inside the world the author has created - even though it may be incredibly different from our own. I wasn't able to do that with this book, which made it hard for me to empathize with the characters on a deeper level and I couldn't put myself inside the story alongside them - which was another thing that hindered my experience. The race itself and all of the obstacles and situations that the three riders encounter was exciting. You never quite knew what was going to happen next - there were several obstacle courses along the way and lots of other dangerous paths they had to take. That aspect of the book was full of action and adventure with some suspense because you had no idea what was going to happen. Dangerous situations were hiding around every corner, and that's without taking the environment or the riders themselves into the equation. Overall, this was a good debut novel that shows that the author has lots of talent and potential. I'm hoping that his next book will better utilize these skills and I'll be able to have a completely different experience than I did with this one. I do recommend this book to fans of science fiction and dystopian stories, along with fans of action, adventure, dirtbikes, and racing.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
'Stone Rider' is a gripping and fast paced novel that will have readers eagerly turning each page to see what will happen next! The story follows main character, Adam Stone, who dreams of leaving his desert hometown for the luxurious Sky-Base. The only way for Adam to have a chance of going to live on Sky-Base is to race the Blackwater Trail - and win. He's not alone in his determination to beat the course - the dangerous Kane is racing against him, along with Sadie Blood - Adam's longtime crush. The Blackwater Trail is meant to break the contestants - body and soul - and will test each of them in ways they never dreamed. But only the strongest will survive the race and be given a ticket to Sky-Base. Will Adam be able to beat both Kane and Sadie in the race? Just how badly does Adam want to leave this life behind and start fresh on Sky-Base? What is he willing to do to ensure he wins the race?
I thought that this was a strong debut novel that shows a lot of promise for the author. It turned not to be something I was really into, but that's all on me - not the book. The description basically tells the majority of the story - it's about these teens who enter a really hard dirtbike race, and all of the obstacles and situations they encounter along the way. The characters were well written with distinctive personalities and traits, especially the main character Adam, and the secondary characters of Kane and Sadie. I liked watching each of their characters reveal a little bit more about themselves throughout the book. Their interactions with one another and during the race proved to be interesting to watch as well. I enjoyed getting to know each of them on a deeper level throughout the story.
The story is full of action and adventure - which isn't surprising due to the plot - as well as a bit of romance. The story takes place in a dystopian world that's been basically reduced to desert. The majority of the residents in the town where Adam lives have oxygen masks or air filter masks that they use to help get clean air - instead of the acrid, dust filled air that surrounds them. I didn't think there was a lot of world building - especially when it came to the town or other towns around them. We don't get a clear picture of what this place is like, except for the trail - which is the main focus of the story. When I read dystopian novels, I want to be able to slip inside the world the author has created - even though it may be incredibly different from our own. I wasn't able to do that with this book, which made it hard for me to empathize with the characters on a deeper level and I couldn't put myself inside the story alongside them - which was another thing that hindered my experience. The race itself and all of the obstacles and situations that the three riders encounter was exciting. You never quite knew what was going to happen next - there were several obstacle courses along the way and lots of other dangerous paths they had to take. That aspect of the book was full of action and adventure with some suspense because you had no idea what was going to happen. Dangerous situations were hiding around every corner, and that's without taking the environment or the riders themselves into the equation. Overall, this was a good debut novel that shows that the author has lots of talent and potential. I'm hoping that his next book will better utilize these skills and I'll be able to have a completely different experience than I did with this one. I do recommend this book to fans of science fiction and dystopian stories, along with fans of action, adventure, dirtbikes, and racing.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2015
Review:
Protagonist: Adam Stone wants to get out of Blackwater and the only way to get out is to ride the Blackwater Trail, but there are a few things holding him back, things like his brother, the girl he wants more than anything to be with, and his own low self-esteem. A series of events lead to Adam needing to enter the race, and with a resolve to win he heads out in the most dangerous race of his life. For the most part I liked the character of Adam, at first he's a bit self-deprecating, he's not quite sure if he could complete the race, let alone win it. He's not a very strong character, but over the course of the book his resolve steels and he changes. My only criticism of Adam is his feelings for Sadie, I felt like I was told how he felt rather than was shown it.
Romance: Speaking of which the romance with Sadie and Adam was extremely boring. Now first off there isn't a lot of romance, which normally isn't a bad thing, but since the romance is sort of a "selling point" in the description I was expecting something more. Secondly I felt no chemistry between the two, at least not at first, as the book rides on its last legs I actually started rooting for them a bit, but for most of the book I felt nothing. Actually I kind of joked in my Goodreads updates that I was shipping Adam and Kane, and the sad reality is that Kane and Adam ended up having more chemistry than Adam and Sadie.
World-Building: In this post-apocalyptic wasteland there are a few known townships occupied by the "Left Behind" and a space station filled with luxury and decadence, or so the stories say. Here people ride bykes, motorcycles that can learn from you movements and some say keep an echo of your soul, and those who rode before you within its mechanism. For a world as seemingly small as this one, there was a lot to it. There were always new things to learn and understand about it, the sad part is, what I initially thought was a standalone (which it still might be?) looks now to be a series and with it so many more questions than answers. I'll be interested to see, if this is a series, how the world will continue to develop and what new answers are out there.
Predictability: For the most part this book wasn't all that predictable, in fact there was probably only one actual twist that I was able to predict. However this happened to be the biggest twist in the book. What's even worse is that the author practically tells the reader before the reveal taking away the great shock and surprise. I mean, sure I guessed the twist before the answer was practically crammed down my throat, but having it validated in such an unofficial way kind of ruined it for me.
Ending: So like I said, I originally thought this to be a standalone, which it might still be. If it is a standalone, the ending sucks, plain and simple. There's too much left up in the air and I would have preferred a more conclusive end. However I'm going to treat this, and rate this, like it's the first book in a series. If that's the case this ending was very well done. Like most first books it's plateaus at the end giving no real cliffhanger or shocking twist, there is however a declaration that makes it clear that this isn't the end.
Rating:
So tentatively I'm giving this book four stars on the hope that this is really the beginning of a series, however if it turns out that this is a standalone, then I'll have to demote it to either two or three stars. However this is still an enjoyable read, very high octane and exciting!
Protagonist: Adam Stone wants to get out of Blackwater and the only way to get out is to ride the Blackwater Trail, but there are a few things holding him back, things like his brother, the girl he wants more than anything to be with, and his own low self-esteem. A series of events lead to Adam needing to enter the race, and with a resolve to win he heads out in the most dangerous race of his life. For the most part I liked the character of Adam, at first he's a bit self-deprecating, he's not quite sure if he could complete the race, let alone win it. He's not a very strong character, but over the course of the book his resolve steels and he changes. My only criticism of Adam is his feelings for Sadie, I felt like I was told how he felt rather than was shown it.
Romance: Speaking of which the romance with Sadie and Adam was extremely boring. Now first off there isn't a lot of romance, which normally isn't a bad thing, but since the romance is sort of a "selling point" in the description I was expecting something more. Secondly I felt no chemistry between the two, at least not at first, as the book rides on its last legs I actually started rooting for them a bit, but for most of the book I felt nothing. Actually I kind of joked in my Goodreads updates that I was shipping Adam and Kane, and the sad reality is that Kane and Adam ended up having more chemistry than Adam and Sadie.
World-Building: In this post-apocalyptic wasteland there are a few known townships occupied by the "Left Behind" and a space station filled with luxury and decadence, or so the stories say. Here people ride bykes, motorcycles that can learn from you movements and some say keep an echo of your soul, and those who rode before you within its mechanism. For a world as seemingly small as this one, there was a lot to it. There were always new things to learn and understand about it, the sad part is, what I initially thought was a standalone (which it still might be?) looks now to be a series and with it so many more questions than answers. I'll be interested to see, if this is a series, how the world will continue to develop and what new answers are out there.
Predictability: For the most part this book wasn't all that predictable, in fact there was probably only one actual twist that I was able to predict. However this happened to be the biggest twist in the book. What's even worse is that the author practically tells the reader before the reveal taking away the great shock and surprise. I mean, sure I guessed the twist before the answer was practically crammed down my throat, but having it validated in such an unofficial way kind of ruined it for me.
Ending: So like I said, I originally thought this to be a standalone, which it might still be. If it is a standalone, the ending sucks, plain and simple. There's too much left up in the air and I would have preferred a more conclusive end. However I'm going to treat this, and rate this, like it's the first book in a series. If that's the case this ending was very well done. Like most first books it's plateaus at the end giving no real cliffhanger or shocking twist, there is however a declaration that makes it clear that this isn't the end.
Rating:
So tentatively I'm giving this book four stars on the hope that this is really the beginning of a series, however if it turns out that this is a standalone, then I'll have to demote it to either two or three stars. However this is still an enjoyable read, very high octane and exciting!
January 31, 2017
GANZE REZENSION: http://annasalvatoresbuchblog.blogspo...
MEINUNG
Der Schreibstil ist schon etwas ungewöhnlicher, oft gibt es kurze, prägnante Sätze, was mir aber sehr gefiel!
Die Spannung wurde dadurch irgendwie gesteigert und zudem hat es die Atmosphäre bedrückender gemacht, was perfekt zur Geschichte passte.
Dennoch gibt es sehr viele 'tiefer gehende' Stellen, die einen kurz innehalten lassen, und auch Emotionen wurden zur Genüge rübergebracht; ich habe stets mitgefiebert.
In jedem Fall war ich wirklich gebannt und habe das Buch auch in sehr kurzer Zeit beendet.
Der Verlauf und die Handlung an sich sind auch vollkommen überzeugend. Man bekommt eine in gewisser Weise eine Einführung in die dystopische Zukunft, man lernt die wichtigsten Personen kennen und bekommt trotz schnelleren Tempos einen sehr guten Überblick über die Geschichte. Und schnell geht die Geschichte richtig los, und schon bei ca. S. 50 geht man emotional mit.
Im weiteren Verlauf bleibt es stets spannend, wobei es neben Action natürlich auch ruhigere Passagen gibt, und das ganze Spektrum meiner Lesebedürfnisse wurden locker-flockig abgedeckt.
Vor allem die Originalität ist ein weiteres Highlight des Buches, neben dem Schreibstil. Zum einem natürlich das Rennen mit den Bykes, aber auch Sachen mit denen man nicht rechnete. Denn es gab so viele Plottwists!
Normalerweise kann ich die 'Überraschungen' schon von weitem riechen, doch hier war ich mehrmals geschockt, weil ich einfach nicht damit rechnete. Auch Gangs, Bykes, Liebe, Kämpfe, Vertrauen und Familie spicken das Buch gekonnt.
Übrigens hat mich die Umgebung/das Rennen manchmal an Tatooine bzw. Mos Eisley aus Star Wars erinnert :-D #Pluspunkt
Die Charaktere sind vielfältig und authentisch, dabei nicht klischeehaft und dennoch sympathisch. Eine sehr gelungene Mischung an Figuren wurde hier kreiert.
Das Ende ist kein Cliffhanger, dennoch will man sofort den 2. Band lesen.
Am besten sofort!
FAZIT
Eine äußerst gelungene Geschichte mit jeder Menge an Action. Der tolle Schreibstil, der Weltenaufbau, die Handlung an sich sowie die Charaktere machen das Buch zum Pageturner!
Für Leser, die gerne Rasantes, Neues und noch Tiefgehendes zugleich lesen wollen.
- Ganz klar: 5 von 5 Feenfaltern -
Vielen Dank an den dtv Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!
© Anna Salvatore's Bücherreich
MEINUNG
Der Schreibstil ist schon etwas ungewöhnlicher, oft gibt es kurze, prägnante Sätze, was mir aber sehr gefiel!
Die Spannung wurde dadurch irgendwie gesteigert und zudem hat es die Atmosphäre bedrückender gemacht, was perfekt zur Geschichte passte.
Dennoch gibt es sehr viele 'tiefer gehende' Stellen, die einen kurz innehalten lassen, und auch Emotionen wurden zur Genüge rübergebracht; ich habe stets mitgefiebert.
In jedem Fall war ich wirklich gebannt und habe das Buch auch in sehr kurzer Zeit beendet.
Der Verlauf und die Handlung an sich sind auch vollkommen überzeugend. Man bekommt eine in gewisser Weise eine Einführung in die dystopische Zukunft, man lernt die wichtigsten Personen kennen und bekommt trotz schnelleren Tempos einen sehr guten Überblick über die Geschichte. Und schnell geht die Geschichte richtig los, und schon bei ca. S. 50 geht man emotional mit.
Im weiteren Verlauf bleibt es stets spannend, wobei es neben Action natürlich auch ruhigere Passagen gibt, und das ganze Spektrum meiner Lesebedürfnisse wurden locker-flockig abgedeckt.
Vor allem die Originalität ist ein weiteres Highlight des Buches, neben dem Schreibstil. Zum einem natürlich das Rennen mit den Bykes, aber auch Sachen mit denen man nicht rechnete. Denn es gab so viele Plottwists!
Normalerweise kann ich die 'Überraschungen' schon von weitem riechen, doch hier war ich mehrmals geschockt, weil ich einfach nicht damit rechnete. Auch Gangs, Bykes, Liebe, Kämpfe, Vertrauen und Familie spicken das Buch gekonnt.
Übrigens hat mich die Umgebung/das Rennen manchmal an Tatooine bzw. Mos Eisley aus Star Wars erinnert :-D #Pluspunkt
Die Charaktere sind vielfältig und authentisch, dabei nicht klischeehaft und dennoch sympathisch. Eine sehr gelungene Mischung an Figuren wurde hier kreiert.
Das Ende ist kein Cliffhanger, dennoch will man sofort den 2. Band lesen.
Am besten sofort!
FAZIT
Eine äußerst gelungene Geschichte mit jeder Menge an Action. Der tolle Schreibstil, der Weltenaufbau, die Handlung an sich sowie die Charaktere machen das Buch zum Pageturner!
Für Leser, die gerne Rasantes, Neues und noch Tiefgehendes zugleich lesen wollen.
- Ganz klar: 5 von 5 Feenfaltern -
Vielen Dank an den dtv Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!
© Anna Salvatore's Bücherreich
August 3, 2015
Fifteen year old Adam Stone lives in the harsh desert town of Blackwater and wants nothing more than to get out. His one chance of earning a one-way ticket to the luxurious world of Sky-Base is also a potentially deadly one: win the brutal Blackwater Trail byke race. Adam, along with the mysterious Kane and tough, gorgeous Sadie Blood, set out to ride this hellish race and find themselves pushed to their limits, hunted by dangerous foes, and faced with cruel truths.
David Hofmeyr’s Stone Rider is an entertaining, wonderfully crafted Young Adult novel that is part dystopian, part western, and all kinds of thrilling! While reminiscent of The Hunger Games, in its razor-sharp, thought-provoking look at class; humanity; and survival, and its unabashed brutality, Stone Rider offers its own unique and complex premise. Hofmeyr creates a bleak, yet entirely enthralling setting with his harsh desert landscapes and almost otherworldly seeming Sky-Base. Adam’s world is a gritty, unforgiving, and, at times, bloody, one. From the saloons selling surprising offerings and the sparse, broken feel of Blackwater to the high-tech world of bykes and Riders, drones, and space civilizations, I loved the cool mix of old-time western and futuristic sci-fi elements within Stone Rider.
What I like most about the characters in Stone Rider, is that they aren’t necessarily likable in a traditional sense. These aren’t characters I would want to be friends with, but I found them utterly engrossing and engaging. From earnest Adam, to mysterious Kane, capable Sadie, and a handful of nasty baddies, readers will be captivated by their stories.
Wickedly fast-paced, Stone Rider takes its characters and readers on an edge of your seat (or byke!) ride. Hofmeyr does an excellent job of creating suspense off all kinds, from explosive to quiet. Adam, Kane, and Sadie are definitely put through the hellish, bloody ringer and readers won’t be able to look away for a second of it.
my final thoughts: With its smart concept, exhilarating storytelling, and memorable characters, Stone Rider is an awesome debut and exciting Young Adult read. I can’t wait for the sequel!
David Hofmeyr’s Stone Rider is an entertaining, wonderfully crafted Young Adult novel that is part dystopian, part western, and all kinds of thrilling! While reminiscent of The Hunger Games, in its razor-sharp, thought-provoking look at class; humanity; and survival, and its unabashed brutality, Stone Rider offers its own unique and complex premise. Hofmeyr creates a bleak, yet entirely enthralling setting with his harsh desert landscapes and almost otherworldly seeming Sky-Base. Adam’s world is a gritty, unforgiving, and, at times, bloody, one. From the saloons selling surprising offerings and the sparse, broken feel of Blackwater to the high-tech world of bykes and Riders, drones, and space civilizations, I loved the cool mix of old-time western and futuristic sci-fi elements within Stone Rider.
What I like most about the characters in Stone Rider, is that they aren’t necessarily likable in a traditional sense. These aren’t characters I would want to be friends with, but I found them utterly engrossing and engaging. From earnest Adam, to mysterious Kane, capable Sadie, and a handful of nasty baddies, readers will be captivated by their stories.
Wickedly fast-paced, Stone Rider takes its characters and readers on an edge of your seat (or byke!) ride. Hofmeyr does an excellent job of creating suspense off all kinds, from explosive to quiet. Adam, Kane, and Sadie are definitely put through the hellish, bloody ringer and readers won’t be able to look away for a second of it.
my final thoughts: With its smart concept, exhilarating storytelling, and memorable characters, Stone Rider is an awesome debut and exciting Young Adult read. I can’t wait for the sequel!
March 5, 2016
There is something really special about Stone Riders and that is uniqueness. It’s packed with actions and is incredibly good for lovers of wild books. You ride hard or you die. This is pretty much how it goes down. Although the book is good, it is not great. Honestly, I didn’t connect with any of the characters. Which by the way are all male and there is only one female character. Weird, huh?
Adam Stone is not your typical character. He is a tough cookie to crack. Life as an orphan hasn’t been easy for him. He has learned the hard way. Most importantly, how to survive. Now, he has one goal in mind - Sky-Base. If you were to ask me what Sky-Base is, I would say, a place where people have a better life? There isn’t much details about this place. Only that is a goal for Adam. A place in which he is willing to enter some type of win-or-die race to earn a pass. Personally, I imagine this place to be a very wealthy live on a man-made space station - like in the movie Elysium. Actually this whole entire book reminded me of this movie with the cast looking like Son of Anarchy-ish..?
Okay, so Adam and everyone are bada$$. They love to fight, kill, you name it - they will do anything and everything to survive. What’s cool about them is they’re connected with their bykes - yes with the y. They have this sort of special bond. Now the only girl in this book is Sadie. Another thing that is not explain. Anyways, she totally intimidating. She has a fling with Adam. Another thing I did not understand - their relationship. It was odd.
Overall Stone Rider is very unique, unlike anything I’ve read. It’s packed with actions, something I loved. I enjoyed how all the characters love to destroy things. I loved their survival skills. However, there are many things that were not explained. My biggest issue with this book. And the romance - not really romantic, at all. But it is a good story to read and learning all these survival skills. Certainly entertaining!
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2015...
Adam Stone is not your typical character. He is a tough cookie to crack. Life as an orphan hasn’t been easy for him. He has learned the hard way. Most importantly, how to survive. Now, he has one goal in mind - Sky-Base. If you were to ask me what Sky-Base is, I would say, a place where people have a better life? There isn’t much details about this place. Only that is a goal for Adam. A place in which he is willing to enter some type of win-or-die race to earn a pass. Personally, I imagine this place to be a very wealthy live on a man-made space station - like in the movie Elysium. Actually this whole entire book reminded me of this movie with the cast looking like Son of Anarchy-ish..?
Okay, so Adam and everyone are bada$$. They love to fight, kill, you name it - they will do anything and everything to survive. What’s cool about them is they’re connected with their bykes - yes with the y. They have this sort of special bond. Now the only girl in this book is Sadie. Another thing that is not explain. Anyways, she totally intimidating. She has a fling with Adam. Another thing I did not understand - their relationship. It was odd.
Overall Stone Rider is very unique, unlike anything I’ve read. It’s packed with actions, something I loved. I enjoyed how all the characters love to destroy things. I loved their survival skills. However, there are many things that were not explained. My biggest issue with this book. And the romance - not really romantic, at all. But it is a good story to read and learning all these survival skills. Certainly entertaining!
http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2015...
July 27, 2015
Stone Rider is a YA book that is definitely more geared towards boys, riding bykes (fancy mind-melding motorcycles that run on sun-power)and minimal romantic entanglement, there's a girl, Adam has a major crush on her, he's incoherent when she's around, he races and writes her off until she joins him.
I really enjoyed this book, which is surprising because I wasn't expecting to, it didn't seem like my type of book at all. The characters really made the book. Adam was great, he's your average kid, not really wanting to be part of anything, to scared to risk his life in the race, but knowing that he was an excellent rider. His personal growth throughout the book is great, I absolutely loved his decision at the end. Sadie was a great character too, a bad ass girl who didn't take shit from anyone, especially her brother. Then there's Kane, he was by far the most interesting character, you have no clue about anything about him until the very end of the book.
I really enjoyed this book even though the race was a little predictable (although the order of the finish I was slightly surprised at), and I wish Hofmeyr spent a little more time describing things, like the wolf attack. And an explanation for Adam's blackouts, why he suddenly stopped having them, what exactly happened when he did have them.
I really hope that there's a sequel, it's set up perfectly for one. I'll be anxiously awaiting to hear what Adam does and what happens to the Colonel!
Full review at http://testybadger.blogspot.com/2015/...
I really enjoyed this book, which is surprising because I wasn't expecting to, it didn't seem like my type of book at all. The characters really made the book. Adam was great, he's your average kid, not really wanting to be part of anything, to scared to risk his life in the race, but knowing that he was an excellent rider. His personal growth throughout the book is great, I absolutely loved his decision at the end. Sadie was a great character too, a bad ass girl who didn't take shit from anyone, especially her brother. Then there's Kane, he was by far the most interesting character, you have no clue about anything about him until the very end of the book.
I really enjoyed this book even though the race was a little predictable (although the order of the finish I was slightly surprised at), and I wish Hofmeyr spent a little more time describing things, like the wolf attack. And an explanation for Adam's blackouts, why he suddenly stopped having them, what exactly happened when he did have them.
I really hope that there's a sequel, it's set up perfectly for one. I'll be anxiously awaiting to hear what Adam does and what happens to the Colonel!
Full review at http://testybadger.blogspot.com/2015/...
August 2, 2015
Overall, this novel was a modern, sci-fi take on old westerns. The grit, violence, and raw circumstances make it a bundle of toughness that shines light on the human quality of perseverance. This is a Mad Max take on the ultimate gun fight, with a bit of modern motorcycle racing.
In a decrepit future world, Earth is barren and those left living on its surface are poor and left to struggle for their meager existence. Humans living on Earth are stuck mining (and dying) for the benefit of those lucky enough to have escaped Earth's surface, those living on the Sky Base. One singular hope remains: the winner of a mystical and treacherous byke race wins passage to the Sky Base and a life of better health, better food, and better overall circumstances.
Adam Stone is a product of his environment. He's born witness to terrible ordeals, lived in squalor, and survived horrific environmental assaults. He's dreamed of winning The Race, but it has never been a reality to even compete. Gangs dominate his world and thwart most moves he tries to make to even enter the race. Adam's character struggles to maintain some measure of the humanity that we cherish, all while trying to survive and seek a better future. His is a story of loyalty, family, danger, humility, pain, and perseverance.
This was a powerful novel that pulled no punches. It is gritty, suspenseful, and at times, depressing. However, the drive to compete and survive pulls this novel from a mere retelling of a race story into something with more depth and insight. I definitely recommend this one, my friends!
In a decrepit future world, Earth is barren and those left living on its surface are poor and left to struggle for their meager existence. Humans living on Earth are stuck mining (and dying) for the benefit of those lucky enough to have escaped Earth's surface, those living on the Sky Base. One singular hope remains: the winner of a mystical and treacherous byke race wins passage to the Sky Base and a life of better health, better food, and better overall circumstances.
Adam Stone is a product of his environment. He's born witness to terrible ordeals, lived in squalor, and survived horrific environmental assaults. He's dreamed of winning The Race, but it has never been a reality to even compete. Gangs dominate his world and thwart most moves he tries to make to even enter the race. Adam's character struggles to maintain some measure of the humanity that we cherish, all while trying to survive and seek a better future. His is a story of loyalty, family, danger, humility, pain, and perseverance.
This was a powerful novel that pulled no punches. It is gritty, suspenseful, and at times, depressing. However, the drive to compete and survive pulls this novel from a mere retelling of a race story into something with more depth and insight. I definitely recommend this one, my friends!
August 7, 2015
I ended up liking this book a lot more than I expected to. The cover with its cycles zooming across arid land didn't really appeal to me. (Yes, I am quite aware that it will appeal to many others.) I didn't know what to make of the characters, especially Adam Stone, who wants to race in the Blackwater Trail, but is afraid to leave behind his disabled brother. I liked Sadie Blood, but I worried that she was just in the book to provide sexual tension. I had no idea what the backstory for Kane, the mysterious outsider, would be. There are parts of the book that just seemed predictable. Of course, Frank's death frees Adam to join the race. But once the race begins, things get much more interesting as Adam must give the race everything he has in order to win. Yet, there are softer, gentler, kinder parts of him that make him appealing, and what some might regard as softness, others might consider to be the traits that make him human. The race is bound by rules and expectations, but there is also a lawlessness about it as well, and I found the trials the racers faced to be difficult tests of skill and luck. While the book fairly bristles with testosterone, the author manages to create a world that seems rooted in a futuristic wild west filled with superstitions and very real health issues. It's easy to see why Adam would be so desperate to leave his home far behind. I'll be eagerly anticipating the companion book, Blood Line, which will be published next year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2016
Cette nouvelle série dystopique nous embarque dans une course de motos palpitante, en plein désert, où tous les coups sont permis.
J'ai très vite pensé aux films Mad Max pour son ambiance western au cœur d'une société post-apocalyptique, où cherche à percer une histoire d'amour et de vengeance. J'ai eu quelques craintes de base, car je n'ai jamais aimé les films en question, et pourtant j'ai été rapidement emballée par l'histoire. Il est vrai qu'elle est imprégnée de désolation, pas franchement glamour, mais elle dégage aussi fougue et fureur, si bien qu'on s'accroche aux fameuses “békanes” avec exaltation. Adam et ses acolytes ne sont en rien épargnés par les coups du sort. Cela cogne dur et fort, c'est sans pitié, sans remords. Les émotions n'ont aucun droit de cité, sans sombrer dans des abîmes de désespoir non plus. Il y a d'ailleurs une histoire d'amour florissante, mais maladroite. Je redoutais aussi un univers trop marqué masculin (les motos, les guerres de clan et la baston) avant de réellement découvrir un récit au rythme entraînant et où l'on y trouve sa place sans difficulté. Un début prometteur et engageant.
J'ai très vite pensé aux films Mad Max pour son ambiance western au cœur d'une société post-apocalyptique, où cherche à percer une histoire d'amour et de vengeance. J'ai eu quelques craintes de base, car je n'ai jamais aimé les films en question, et pourtant j'ai été rapidement emballée par l'histoire. Il est vrai qu'elle est imprégnée de désolation, pas franchement glamour, mais elle dégage aussi fougue et fureur, si bien qu'on s'accroche aux fameuses “békanes” avec exaltation. Adam et ses acolytes ne sont en rien épargnés par les coups du sort. Cela cogne dur et fort, c'est sans pitié, sans remords. Les émotions n'ont aucun droit de cité, sans sombrer dans des abîmes de désespoir non plus. Il y a d'ailleurs une histoire d'amour florissante, mais maladroite. Je redoutais aussi un univers trop marqué masculin (les motos, les guerres de clan et la baston) avant de réellement découvrir un récit au rythme entraînant et où l'on y trouve sa place sans difficulté. Un début prometteur et engageant.
October 29, 2015
So ... what we have here is the first of a serial (which I'm not a fan of), however, on it's own, this is a respectable read. There's plenty of action and suspense, a bit of a twist near the end (though not entirely unexpected), and enough imagination and inventiveness to keep you thoroughly interested throughout.
There are, though, some really weird things which I found hard to take in:
First, the dystopian futuristic setting of this is reasonable, but the main weapon used throughout is a sling. A futuristic sling, but a sling nevertheless. The protagonist having never used one and then suddenly becoming an expert in its use comes across as more far-fetched than anything else in this SF novel.
Second, the ENDING of the book. I'm not giving away any teasers or spoilers, but the ending was truly poor. It was a really good standalone novel until the final sentence, the final LINE of the book. Think Harry Potter volume one ending with: "But we have several more years of school to attend," Ron said as he winked at Hermione, plugging for people to buy the next novel.
I would NOT classify this book as YA due to a bit of adult content and the abundance of graphic violence. This is something like a crossover between Hunger Games and Mad Max, but definitely worth a look.
There are, though, some really weird things which I found hard to take in:
First, the dystopian futuristic setting of this is reasonable, but the main weapon used throughout is a sling. A futuristic sling, but a sling nevertheless. The protagonist having never used one and then suddenly becoming an expert in its use comes across as more far-fetched than anything else in this SF novel.
Second, the ENDING of the book. I'm not giving away any teasers or spoilers, but the ending was truly poor. It was a really good standalone novel until the final sentence, the final LINE of the book. Think Harry Potter volume one ending with: "But we have several more years of school to attend," Ron said as he winked at Hermione, plugging for people to buy the next novel.
I would NOT classify this book as YA due to a bit of adult content and the abundance of graphic violence. This is something like a crossover between Hunger Games and Mad Max, but definitely worth a look.
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