What do you think?
Rate this book
Campbell
It’s been ten years since a virus wiped out the adult population. Across the world, opportunistic kids worked to reestablish order through the creation of uneasy, fractured territories.
A decade later, the rules are changing.
Desperate to stop his western territory from coming apart at the seams, Connor Wilde sends his oldest confidante to negotiate with the leader of Campbell, a swelling northern empire.
Tal Bauman isn’t expecting her to be so impossible.
Or intriguing. Or beautiful.
He’s also not expecting their negotiations to leave them both fighting for survival in a part of the world neither are familiar with.
Spanning a dystopian North American landscape, Campbell is the story of two unlikely companions who find themselves reevaluating their loyalties, beliefs, and futures.
A decade later, the rules are changing.
Desperate to stop his western territory from coming apart at the seams, Connor Wilde sends his oldest confidante to negotiate with the leader of Campbell, a swelling northern empire.
Tal Bauman isn’t expecting her to be so impossible.
Or intriguing. Or beautiful.
He’s also not expecting their negotiations to leave them both fighting for survival in a part of the world neither are familiar with.
Spanning a dystopian North American landscape, Campbell is the story of two unlikely companions who find themselves reevaluating their loyalties, beliefs, and futures.
394 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2013
4 people are currently reading
772 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 13, 2013
I will preface this review by letting you know that CS Starr and I have been friends for years. In fact, she very generously helped to edit my first book, A Hidden Fire, which should tell you how much respect I have for her as a writer and an editor.
And it would be dishonest of me to say that I didn’t enjoy her debut effort, Campbell, more because I know her. But that’s only because I’ve known for years how effective her writing is, and I’m so glad I finally have a chance to share it with my readers.
Now, let’s talk about Campbell.
In the growing world of New Adult literature, I’ll be completely honest: I’ve mostly read NA romance. Which is a shame, because New Adult should encompass all kinds of genres, just like Young Adult fiction does. Campbell is a New Adult dystopian novel with strong romantic themes. It’s the first book in a trilogy. Mostly, it’s a striking debut effort.
After a chilling prologue that introduces the reader to a world where everyone over the age of twelve has died in an unnamed plague, Starr builds a layered world where children have raised themselves. They have survived. They have formed rudimentary governments and economies. Though ten years have passed since the adults died off, civilization is only starting to come together. It’s a world that is both familiar and alien.
Lucy Campbell and Tal Baumann have taken very different paths to adulthood in this new world, but when they come together, you can sense their connection immediately. Despite the suspicion, there’s humor. Understanding. I loved their dialogue, even when they were mad at each other. Their relationship isn’t easy to define, but I like that, too.
Lucy is the leader of a faction that has taken over much of the North American Midwest. It’s also a growing faction that is pressing farther west. Tal is a lieutenant to the leader of the West. Rumors abound, as communication has broken down, but when Tal is sent to Campbell to form a tentative diplomatic relationship, what should have been a routine visit turns into much more.
Lucy and Tal are thrown together in an uneasy alliance against shared enemies. But where have those enemies come from? Neither trusts the other; trust is dangerous in this world. The stakes are high, as thousands of survivors look to their new leaders to create a stable life. The political machinations of both characters make them alternately noble and unlikeable. But being likable doesn’t always make you a good leader, and that’s a lesson that Lucy, in particular, has learned very well.
Both Tal and Lucy are dynamic characters. One of the strengths of New Adult stories is their ability to explore characters in rapid change. In the case of Campbell, it’s more than just characters striking out into the world on their own. In Starr’s world, they’re creating civilization, almost from scratch. Tal and Lucy have survived, but how they build their world, and the personal connections they form along the way, are what will keep you glued to the page.
Campbell isn’t an easy book. There is violence. Profanity. Betrayal. There is also connection. Survival. Loyalty. Even love? In a world where children have had to raise themselves, what kind of adults would they become? What kind of leaders would they make? Campbell is a gripping read, highly character driven, yet full of action. I stayed up way too late reading it. (And I didn’t regret it the next morning.) CS Starr is an author to watch.
And it would be dishonest of me to say that I didn’t enjoy her debut effort, Campbell, more because I know her. But that’s only because I’ve known for years how effective her writing is, and I’m so glad I finally have a chance to share it with my readers.
Now, let’s talk about Campbell.
In the growing world of New Adult literature, I’ll be completely honest: I’ve mostly read NA romance. Which is a shame, because New Adult should encompass all kinds of genres, just like Young Adult fiction does. Campbell is a New Adult dystopian novel with strong romantic themes. It’s the first book in a trilogy. Mostly, it’s a striking debut effort.
After a chilling prologue that introduces the reader to a world where everyone over the age of twelve has died in an unnamed plague, Starr builds a layered world where children have raised themselves. They have survived. They have formed rudimentary governments and economies. Though ten years have passed since the adults died off, civilization is only starting to come together. It’s a world that is both familiar and alien.
Lucy Campbell and Tal Baumann have taken very different paths to adulthood in this new world, but when they come together, you can sense their connection immediately. Despite the suspicion, there’s humor. Understanding. I loved their dialogue, even when they were mad at each other. Their relationship isn’t easy to define, but I like that, too.
Lucy is the leader of a faction that has taken over much of the North American Midwest. It’s also a growing faction that is pressing farther west. Tal is a lieutenant to the leader of the West. Rumors abound, as communication has broken down, but when Tal is sent to Campbell to form a tentative diplomatic relationship, what should have been a routine visit turns into much more.
Lucy and Tal are thrown together in an uneasy alliance against shared enemies. But where have those enemies come from? Neither trusts the other; trust is dangerous in this world. The stakes are high, as thousands of survivors look to their new leaders to create a stable life. The political machinations of both characters make them alternately noble and unlikeable. But being likable doesn’t always make you a good leader, and that’s a lesson that Lucy, in particular, has learned very well.
Both Tal and Lucy are dynamic characters. One of the strengths of New Adult stories is their ability to explore characters in rapid change. In the case of Campbell, it’s more than just characters striking out into the world on their own. In Starr’s world, they’re creating civilization, almost from scratch. Tal and Lucy have survived, but how they build their world, and the personal connections they form along the way, are what will keep you glued to the page.
Campbell isn’t an easy book. There is violence. Profanity. Betrayal. There is also connection. Survival. Loyalty. Even love? In a world where children have had to raise themselves, what kind of adults would they become? What kind of leaders would they make? Campbell is a gripping read, highly character driven, yet full of action. I stayed up way too late reading it. (And I didn’t regret it the next morning.) CS Starr is an author to watch.
December 1, 2013
http://seh-bookblog.blogspot.com/
Probably one of the best New Adult fictions I have read this year! What attracted me to this book was the fact that it was an New Adult Dystopian. I have read plenty of Dystopias but never one written for New Adults, because of this wonderful book I plan to go search for more.
It has been years since the virus struck and killed off the Adults in this world C.S. Starr has created. Years later, two individuals stand to make the world a better place for the kids, Tal Bauman and Lucy Campbell. However, their view, value, and ideas clash – until they found themselves facing one another, do they come to understand that what they believe to be “making the world a better place for kids” is not all that different.
This book was filled with unexpected elements, romance, and smart conversations. It will take you on a thrill ride. I loved almost everything about this book, but especially the strengths of these characters; both mentally and physically. Lucy Campbell … Wow. Her character left such a strong impression, it probably ruined my expectations for other female protagonists. (Read the book and see for yourself what I mean.) When she was first introduced to us readers, she came off as a b***h – I am going to be completely honest with you, I loathed and admired her all at the same time. She has this charisma that lures you in, which sometimes also came off as arrogant. Tal, however was there to tone her down a bit, just a bit. It was a pleasure to see a female and male protagonists stand side-by-side instead of one leading the other. The other characters were also entertaining and animated. Each character stand on his/her own and that makes the story all the better.
I found the plot masterfully thought out and well written. Because of that readers are able to see the smooth transition and development from character to character. That is also what was enjoyable about this read, the flashbacks. The book centered on the now factors, but gave readers snippets of the past (which caused me to bawl my eyes out!) Even more than I already was, I felt so much hurt and pain for what these characters had to go through …
I am definitely going to keep an eye our for C.S Starr's future work.
This book, CAMPBELL deserves more than the love it is receiving. It is emotional and fun all at the same time. I don't know about you but that says I am a great book to add to your To-read list!
Happy reading.
Probably one of the best New Adult fictions I have read this year! What attracted me to this book was the fact that it was an New Adult Dystopian. I have read plenty of Dystopias but never one written for New Adults, because of this wonderful book I plan to go search for more.
It has been years since the virus struck and killed off the Adults in this world C.S. Starr has created. Years later, two individuals stand to make the world a better place for the kids, Tal Bauman and Lucy Campbell. However, their view, value, and ideas clash – until they found themselves facing one another, do they come to understand that what they believe to be “making the world a better place for kids” is not all that different.
This book was filled with unexpected elements, romance, and smart conversations. It will take you on a thrill ride. I loved almost everything about this book, but especially the strengths of these characters; both mentally and physically. Lucy Campbell … Wow. Her character left such a strong impression, it probably ruined my expectations for other female protagonists. (Read the book and see for yourself what I mean.) When she was first introduced to us readers, she came off as a b***h – I am going to be completely honest with you, I loathed and admired her all at the same time. She has this charisma that lures you in, which sometimes also came off as arrogant. Tal, however was there to tone her down a bit, just a bit. It was a pleasure to see a female and male protagonists stand side-by-side instead of one leading the other. The other characters were also entertaining and animated. Each character stand on his/her own and that makes the story all the better.
I found the plot masterfully thought out and well written. Because of that readers are able to see the smooth transition and development from character to character. That is also what was enjoyable about this read, the flashbacks. The book centered on the now factors, but gave readers snippets of the past (which caused me to bawl my eyes out!) Even more than I already was, I felt so much hurt and pain for what these characters had to go through …
I am definitely going to keep an eye our for C.S Starr's future work.
This book, CAMPBELL deserves more than the love it is receiving. It is emotional and fun all at the same time. I don't know about you but that says I am a great book to add to your To-read list!
Happy reading.
December 9, 2013
For this and other reviews please visit Zemfirka Blogs.
Digital review copy provided by author in exchange for fair and honest review.
Campbell is one of those books you don’t expect. I can’t say I loved it, yet I was glued to it. Gripping, unexpected and unapologetic it takes you on a complex and often harsh journey of learning and discovery that will leave you craving for more. It tells the story of the post-apocalyptic world where adult population has been wiped out by a virus ten years before. Told from the points of view of Lucy Campbell and Tal Bauman, with glimpses of past and present we slowly begin to uncover the new order of life and how it came to be...
Lucy: Lucy, now in her early twenties is a capable and indomitable leader of the striving northern empire that bears her family name – Campbell. She is flawed and broken, but she is first and foremost a survivor, and is determined to carve out the better life for her and hers. It took me the better part of the book to learn to appreciate Lucy. She is not the most likeable character [at least not at first], but certainly a very interesting and complex one, that carries the story.
Tal: The western territory is crumbling under the rule of Tal’s friend – Connor Wilde whose only seeming concern is for his own wellbeing. Fearing an approaching takeover by Campbell, Tal is sent to negotiate with Lucy. But being second in command at West, Tal never saw himself as a leader, until the trip to Campbell changes his future’s pass.
Tal is another brilliant character. Life hasn’t been as hard on him as compared to Lucy’s. Aside the obvious loss of his family, he’s managed to maintain some of his innocence or rather chosen not to accept the new realities of life fully. But his chance meeting with Lucy and following events drastically shake up his world and he begins to come into his own and take charge.
Conclusion: In the style reminiscent of Lord of the Flies, Campbell portrays a dystopian world where kids, thrust into adulthood too early have to learn to govern and make lives for themselves for better or worse. The world Ms. Starr imagines is as impressive as it is scary. There are no aliens or robots, or vicious governments forbidding and controlling your every thought and move, yet the world where no one older than twelve years of age survives is a frightening thought indeed. [Note: The book does not delve as much into mechanics of how young kids managed to sustain such functionality of their world and it seems a bit unbelievable to me, but hopefully this will be explored in future novels.]
Politics, sexuality, acceptance, abuse, and identity, sense of family and questions of trust are all explored throughout the novel. Campbell is as much a study of one’s identity as it is an exploration of this post-apocalyptic world, building up to the big revolutionary reveal but it is only the beginning and I’m definitely curious to know more.
Digital review copy provided by author in exchange for fair and honest review.
Campbell is one of those books you don’t expect. I can’t say I loved it, yet I was glued to it. Gripping, unexpected and unapologetic it takes you on a complex and often harsh journey of learning and discovery that will leave you craving for more. It tells the story of the post-apocalyptic world where adult population has been wiped out by a virus ten years before. Told from the points of view of Lucy Campbell and Tal Bauman, with glimpses of past and present we slowly begin to uncover the new order of life and how it came to be...
Lucy: Lucy, now in her early twenties is a capable and indomitable leader of the striving northern empire that bears her family name – Campbell. She is flawed and broken, but she is first and foremost a survivor, and is determined to carve out the better life for her and hers. It took me the better part of the book to learn to appreciate Lucy. She is not the most likeable character [at least not at first], but certainly a very interesting and complex one, that carries the story.
Tal: The western territory is crumbling under the rule of Tal’s friend – Connor Wilde whose only seeming concern is for his own wellbeing. Fearing an approaching takeover by Campbell, Tal is sent to negotiate with Lucy. But being second in command at West, Tal never saw himself as a leader, until the trip to Campbell changes his future’s pass.
Tal is another brilliant character. Life hasn’t been as hard on him as compared to Lucy’s. Aside the obvious loss of his family, he’s managed to maintain some of his innocence or rather chosen not to accept the new realities of life fully. But his chance meeting with Lucy and following events drastically shake up his world and he begins to come into his own and take charge.
Conclusion: In the style reminiscent of Lord of the Flies, Campbell portrays a dystopian world where kids, thrust into adulthood too early have to learn to govern and make lives for themselves for better or worse. The world Ms. Starr imagines is as impressive as it is scary. There are no aliens or robots, or vicious governments forbidding and controlling your every thought and move, yet the world where no one older than twelve years of age survives is a frightening thought indeed. [Note: The book does not delve as much into mechanics of how young kids managed to sustain such functionality of their world and it seems a bit unbelievable to me, but hopefully this will be explored in future novels.]
Politics, sexuality, acceptance, abuse, and identity, sense of family and questions of trust are all explored throughout the novel. Campbell is as much a study of one’s identity as it is an exploration of this post-apocalyptic world, building up to the big revolutionary reveal but it is only the beginning and I’m definitely curious to know more.
November 27, 2013
I was excited to read this since I have been following her writing for a few years now. I found this to be an interesting idea of a dystopian world. I found that I was spending equal time laughing, being drawn into plots, and being horrified that I've babied my five year old too much and he'd have no hope of taking care of himself if this ever happened. Hey, I'm allowed to be morbid at times, I'm a mother!
Coming from a background of reading her fanfiction, I did find that I was unable to picture Lucy as anything but Sookie. There wasn't enough of a change in character for me to separate them. Tal, however, was very much his own man. I liked that they weren't just an automatic HEA (I'm very sick of those).
I loved that he ran away, and even more that he came back. I loved that he isn't the big strong man that can make anything happen, that he wasn't "the boss". I loved that he has unconventional issues and does embarrassing things and that you just have to take him for who he is without apology.
Overall a worthwhile read and I will be carrying on with the next one in the series.
You did great and I'm very glad that I came across your writing.
Coming from a background of reading her fanfiction, I did find that I was unable to picture Lucy as anything but Sookie. There wasn't enough of a change in character for me to separate them. Tal, however, was very much his own man. I liked that they weren't just an automatic HEA (I'm very sick of those).
I loved that he ran away, and even more that he came back. I loved that he isn't the big strong man that can make anything happen, that he wasn't "the boss". I loved that he has unconventional issues and does embarrassing things and that you just have to take him for who he is without apology.
Overall a worthwhile read and I will be carrying on with the next one in the series.
You did great and I'm very glad that I came across your writing.
November 14, 2013
This story is incredibly interesting and extremely well written. While not my genre of book at all, I still couldn't put it down! CS Starr has such an amazing way of telling a story, the characters are interesting and well developed and there's always the perfect balance of detail. I find it remarkable that she is just getting around to publishing her first story. She’s been posting stories online for years. She should have started publishing some of them long ago. I expect many more great things from this author in the future!!
March 3, 2014
A free copy was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Campbell is a New Adult dystopian novel set in the landscape of North America. To be honest, this book is nothing like anything I’ve ever read before. This book was so unique that I have to say, I was completely hooked till the end. Before I read the book, I read the summary of it and was prepared in my mind for some kind of story where a virus overtakes the adult population and the remaining survivors travel from one end of the earth to the other to look for a cure centre, etc. Yup, that would’ve been fairly predictable if you ask me. But as I started reading it, it was nothing like I expected, it was something that no one else would’ve thought about. I really do admire C. S. Starr for originality of idea.
The book starts off with the entire adult population being wiped out due to a virus, causing the natural death of humans in their world to occur from around the age of 25 to 30. That’s mind-blowingly crazy. Their 30 is our 100, and their 11 is our 30, where girls start to become mothers at the age of 14. So, practically, the story revolves around teens, ( or in their world, adults) who rule over certain territories. When problems rise with the Eastern territory, Connor, who rules the Western territory, sends his buddy/second man, Tal Bauman, to negotiate with the leader of the Campbell territory, Lucy Campbell. Tal’s hot, Lucy’s mouth-watering, their opinions clash, and I’m not going to give any spoilers, so just read the book already! Did I mention that we are also given a flashback at the beginning of every chapter of what happened 10 years ago? The mystery unravels itself little by little and I guess that’s what got me not wanting to leave my iPad even if I had school work left to do. Each time reading a new chapter, I would try to guess what would happen in the next. But guessing isn’t going to work, not with Starr. There seemed to be different types of grenades at every corner I turned. Sure there’s romance here, but a romance that is so impossible yet possible. Seriously, I was utterly disappointed when I found out what Lucy was, and it kept me thinking throughout the book that the two lovers would never be. However, as I said before, Starr just won’t let you assume anything now, would she?
The only problem I had with this book was that some parts were confusing as hell, especially in the beginning. It wasn’t a good way to start a book, there are better ways, but that’s okay I guess. I was intrigued to figure out more about the book considering I was lost in the first quarter of it. I also found out that in certain parts of the book, numerous times, words were repeated which made the sentence wrong, in terms of grammar, but I’m sure that’s just an e-book problem (happens all the time), as I received the digital copy of the book. So, I suggest that you get the physical copy. It’s worth every penny.
Personally, I would’ve loved this book so much if it wasn’t for the fact that it was a little too vulgar for my taste. But of course, if you’re an avid New Adult book reader, you would love this. I also found out that throughout the book, the style of writing was a little bit rocky. But the plot line and likeable characters absolutely made up for it all, so I actually ended up enjoying most parts of the book. I may not have liked Lucy, who is such a hard headed girl who likes to conquer everything and everyone, but I did respect her for what she’s been through. Tal, on the other hand, was the perfect male protagonist, yet he has his own flaws. I liked the fact that the both of them were so different yet so similar. If there was anything that Caroline Starr taught me through this book, it was that people have their own insecurities which leads to them doing something that isn’t right. It was hard going through what Lucy went through, and I can understand why she did what she did.
The ending wasn’t enough for me, literally. I WANT MORE! Good news, Campbell is the first book in the series, and I am definitely getting the second book, if and when it gets released. So, yes I did like this book, though I didn’t love it, I just couldn’t bring myself to hate it either. Thus, of 5 stars, I would give this book 3.5 stars.
Campbell is a New Adult dystopian novel set in the landscape of North America. To be honest, this book is nothing like anything I’ve ever read before. This book was so unique that I have to say, I was completely hooked till the end. Before I read the book, I read the summary of it and was prepared in my mind for some kind of story where a virus overtakes the adult population and the remaining survivors travel from one end of the earth to the other to look for a cure centre, etc. Yup, that would’ve been fairly predictable if you ask me. But as I started reading it, it was nothing like I expected, it was something that no one else would’ve thought about. I really do admire C. S. Starr for originality of idea.
The book starts off with the entire adult population being wiped out due to a virus, causing the natural death of humans in their world to occur from around the age of 25 to 30. That’s mind-blowingly crazy. Their 30 is our 100, and their 11 is our 30, where girls start to become mothers at the age of 14. So, practically, the story revolves around teens, ( or in their world, adults) who rule over certain territories. When problems rise with the Eastern territory, Connor, who rules the Western territory, sends his buddy/second man, Tal Bauman, to negotiate with the leader of the Campbell territory, Lucy Campbell. Tal’s hot, Lucy’s mouth-watering, their opinions clash, and I’m not going to give any spoilers, so just read the book already! Did I mention that we are also given a flashback at the beginning of every chapter of what happened 10 years ago? The mystery unravels itself little by little and I guess that’s what got me not wanting to leave my iPad even if I had school work left to do. Each time reading a new chapter, I would try to guess what would happen in the next. But guessing isn’t going to work, not with Starr. There seemed to be different types of grenades at every corner I turned. Sure there’s romance here, but a romance that is so impossible yet possible. Seriously, I was utterly disappointed when I found out what Lucy was, and it kept me thinking throughout the book that the two lovers would never be. However, as I said before, Starr just won’t let you assume anything now, would she?
The only problem I had with this book was that some parts were confusing as hell, especially in the beginning. It wasn’t a good way to start a book, there are better ways, but that’s okay I guess. I was intrigued to figure out more about the book considering I was lost in the first quarter of it. I also found out that in certain parts of the book, numerous times, words were repeated which made the sentence wrong, in terms of grammar, but I’m sure that’s just an e-book problem (happens all the time), as I received the digital copy of the book. So, I suggest that you get the physical copy. It’s worth every penny.
Personally, I would’ve loved this book so much if it wasn’t for the fact that it was a little too vulgar for my taste. But of course, if you’re an avid New Adult book reader, you would love this. I also found out that throughout the book, the style of writing was a little bit rocky. But the plot line and likeable characters absolutely made up for it all, so I actually ended up enjoying most parts of the book. I may not have liked Lucy, who is such a hard headed girl who likes to conquer everything and everyone, but I did respect her for what she’s been through. Tal, on the other hand, was the perfect male protagonist, yet he has his own flaws. I liked the fact that the both of them were so different yet so similar. If there was anything that Caroline Starr taught me through this book, it was that people have their own insecurities which leads to them doing something that isn’t right. It was hard going through what Lucy went through, and I can understand why she did what she did.
The ending wasn’t enough for me, literally. I WANT MORE! Good news, Campbell is the first book in the series, and I am definitely getting the second book, if and when it gets released. So, yes I did like this book, though I didn’t love it, I just couldn’t bring myself to hate it either. Thus, of 5 stars, I would give this book 3.5 stars.
January 4, 2014
First of all this would be 4.5 Stars if .5 Star existed. (Please note one of my New Years Resolutions was to be "tighter" with my Stars not give 5/5 so often!)
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I was looking forward to a decent post apocalyptic read, after being contacted by the Author and being asked to review her book. I still love being asked to read and review a book, someone actually would like my opinion on their work!
When I first began reading I was a little put off by some of the rather crude language, I'm no prude and am not easily offended but was worried the book would be like this the whole way through or worse.
MY REVIEW
The cover shows a rather lonely figure of a girl walking in between two fields of crops. From reading the book I'd say the female could be one of two characters, it's either Lucy Campbell, who lives and "rules" Campbell, a newly named revitalized region of America. Or the figure could be Leah, the cousin of Tal, the second in command of the West region, which is simply called "West". Leah has built up her own garden of fresh vegetables and fruit to eat. The book is simply titled Campbell and the book does centre on the area's of Campbell and the West. The fonts used for the Title and Author Name are simple but effective.
So would I pick the book up in a book store? Yes but I wouldn't necessarily think it was of a post apocalyptic genre.
So as I have mentioned above, in "Initial Thoughts" the Author C.S. Starr contacted me via email regarding a review for her book. She then sent me a free mobi file to enable me to read and give my honest review on the book on my kindle.
So America has been hit by a mysterious virus and all adults have perished. America has been divided into groups/areas that are now ruled by the remaining population of kids. The main areas being Campbell, West and East. All the areas "rule" and "regulate" differently. East is considered the harshest, followed by a fairly dictatorial West and a more socialist Campbell. Connor is the "man in charge" in West though things are not going so well in the West as people are wanting "change" they want a more socialist system like the one that exists in Campbell. Connor decides he wants a "meet" with Lucy Campbell but has ulterior motives. Connor always has ulterior motives! there has to be "something in it for him".
When Lucy Campbell (Campbell's No1) and Tal (West's No2) are kidnapped suspicion immediately falls onto the East who are trying to acquire more land and people. East has both Campbell and West in its sights for potential take overs.
During the kidnapping Lucy and Tal grow closer but agree what happens when kidnapped stays there. (You'll see what I mean when you read the book!). But Tal and Lucy are not the only ones in danger as Cole, Lucy's brother was kidnapped prior to them and is being tortured mercilessly according to the photographic proof the kidnappers are sending to Campbell.
So who are the kidnappers? Are they the same? Who will live? Who will die?
Yes, there's lots going on in this book, plenty of action, intrigue, deception and suspense. there's some edge of seat stuff in here as well as some poignant, tears welling,heart breaking stuff too! And of course there just has to be a little romance involved.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes, it's a really great story. Would I recommend the book? I'd highly recommend this one, not just for those that love dystopian, though it does have a lot for the dystopian/post-apocalyptic genre fan. It also has much more to offer. Would I read a BK2? Oh yes please, sign me up to read it now! Would I read other work by this Author? Again, the answer is yes please.I really enjoyed the writing style and pace of this book.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I was looking forward to a decent post apocalyptic read, after being contacted by the Author and being asked to review her book. I still love being asked to read and review a book, someone actually would like my opinion on their work!
When I first began reading I was a little put off by some of the rather crude language, I'm no prude and am not easily offended but was worried the book would be like this the whole way through or worse.
MY REVIEW
The cover shows a rather lonely figure of a girl walking in between two fields of crops. From reading the book I'd say the female could be one of two characters, it's either Lucy Campbell, who lives and "rules" Campbell, a newly named revitalized region of America. Or the figure could be Leah, the cousin of Tal, the second in command of the West region, which is simply called "West". Leah has built up her own garden of fresh vegetables and fruit to eat. The book is simply titled Campbell and the book does centre on the area's of Campbell and the West. The fonts used for the Title and Author Name are simple but effective.
So would I pick the book up in a book store? Yes but I wouldn't necessarily think it was of a post apocalyptic genre.
So as I have mentioned above, in "Initial Thoughts" the Author C.S. Starr contacted me via email regarding a review for her book. She then sent me a free mobi file to enable me to read and give my honest review on the book on my kindle.
So America has been hit by a mysterious virus and all adults have perished. America has been divided into groups/areas that are now ruled by the remaining population of kids. The main areas being Campbell, West and East. All the areas "rule" and "regulate" differently. East is considered the harshest, followed by a fairly dictatorial West and a more socialist Campbell. Connor is the "man in charge" in West though things are not going so well in the West as people are wanting "change" they want a more socialist system like the one that exists in Campbell. Connor decides he wants a "meet" with Lucy Campbell but has ulterior motives. Connor always has ulterior motives! there has to be "something in it for him".
When Lucy Campbell (Campbell's No1) and Tal (West's No2) are kidnapped suspicion immediately falls onto the East who are trying to acquire more land and people. East has both Campbell and West in its sights for potential take overs.
During the kidnapping Lucy and Tal grow closer but agree what happens when kidnapped stays there. (You'll see what I mean when you read the book!). But Tal and Lucy are not the only ones in danger as Cole, Lucy's brother was kidnapped prior to them and is being tortured mercilessly according to the photographic proof the kidnappers are sending to Campbell.
So who are the kidnappers? Are they the same? Who will live? Who will die?
Yes, there's lots going on in this book, plenty of action, intrigue, deception and suspense. there's some edge of seat stuff in here as well as some poignant, tears welling,heart breaking stuff too! And of course there just has to be a little romance involved.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes, it's a really great story. Would I recommend the book? I'd highly recommend this one, not just for those that love dystopian, though it does have a lot for the dystopian/post-apocalyptic genre fan. It also has much more to offer. Would I read a BK2? Oh yes please, sign me up to read it now! Would I read other work by this Author? Again, the answer is yes please.I really enjoyed the writing style and pace of this book.
April 25, 2014
I received an ARC from my good friend C.S. Starr just before she dove into rewrites and edits... sorry I'm so tardy with this review C!
I'll start by saying I don't usually read this kind of book. I like fluff, fairy dust and happy endings. Campbell is definitely not any of those things. It is a gripping, shocking, fascinating and realistic look into a world without grown-ups. To compare it to something, I would say this century's "Lord of the Flies"... with better writing and character development. It's dark and twisty in places, and some characters are truly hateful, but they are outweighed by the surprises and joy that can be found in other parts of this engaging story.
My recommendation, for reading this book, is to leave all your preconceptions and probably even your values on the shelf. But don't let that put you off, just pick them up when you're done. In a world without supervision, these kids don't stick to the 'rules' and if you come in imagining things and people to be or act in a familiar or particular way, you're not going to enjoy a truly eye opening reading experience.
Everyone over the age of 12 dies within the first few pages. Not just in a single area, but the entire world. Children are left to raise themselves, feed themselves, protect themselves... for me, not only was this extremely confronting, but heart breaking (I may have cried a bit). Thinking of how kids in my part of the world are raised, and how convenient and easy everything is with deliveries, shipping, farming, education and medical care, how would they really be able to handle it? C's portrayal of these 'kids' is real, gutsy and raw.
The story is interspersed with flashbacks of happier times, when kids were able to be kids, and it throws their current reality into harsh contrast, and it makes me slightly glad we jump from apocalypse to 10 years later, because emotionally, I don't think I could have handled those 10 years. We also read the story from multiple points of view, which I think makes it more engaging while at the same time easier to understand why things and people are the way they are.
The protagonists, Lucy and Tal, have raised themselves to be fascinating people, and you'll want to follow them through this series. Their relationship is atypical, so don't expect them to be a 'couple' because they're not. It's refreshing to read a book with characters and a plot that are so completely unpredictable.
It was a joy to read something with a strong female lead character like Lucy, who, while not likeable at first, manages to be kind as well as strong. She educates our male lead, Tal, to his eventual betterment, because while he's a good person, he's a little naive. So while they aren't lovable in the Hallmark sense of the word, you will definitely be invested in Lucy and Tal's lives and well being.
Campbell is different, it's unpredictable, engaging and well written. It will make you think, and in my case, dive into a block of chocolate. I know the Campbell series is not going to be for everyone, but even if you don't 'like' it, it definitely needs to be experienced. You won't regret reading this mind expanding tale and will come away with a greater thankfulness for your life and comforts... then you'll move on to book 2, West.
I'll start by saying I don't usually read this kind of book. I like fluff, fairy dust and happy endings. Campbell is definitely not any of those things. It is a gripping, shocking, fascinating and realistic look into a world without grown-ups. To compare it to something, I would say this century's "Lord of the Flies"... with better writing and character development. It's dark and twisty in places, and some characters are truly hateful, but they are outweighed by the surprises and joy that can be found in other parts of this engaging story.
My recommendation, for reading this book, is to leave all your preconceptions and probably even your values on the shelf. But don't let that put you off, just pick them up when you're done. In a world without supervision, these kids don't stick to the 'rules' and if you come in imagining things and people to be or act in a familiar or particular way, you're not going to enjoy a truly eye opening reading experience.
Everyone over the age of 12 dies within the first few pages. Not just in a single area, but the entire world. Children are left to raise themselves, feed themselves, protect themselves... for me, not only was this extremely confronting, but heart breaking (I may have cried a bit). Thinking of how kids in my part of the world are raised, and how convenient and easy everything is with deliveries, shipping, farming, education and medical care, how would they really be able to handle it? C's portrayal of these 'kids' is real, gutsy and raw.
The story is interspersed with flashbacks of happier times, when kids were able to be kids, and it throws their current reality into harsh contrast, and it makes me slightly glad we jump from apocalypse to 10 years later, because emotionally, I don't think I could have handled those 10 years. We also read the story from multiple points of view, which I think makes it more engaging while at the same time easier to understand why things and people are the way they are.
The protagonists, Lucy and Tal, have raised themselves to be fascinating people, and you'll want to follow them through this series. Their relationship is atypical, so don't expect them to be a 'couple' because they're not. It's refreshing to read a book with characters and a plot that are so completely unpredictable.
It was a joy to read something with a strong female lead character like Lucy, who, while not likeable at first, manages to be kind as well as strong. She educates our male lead, Tal, to his eventual betterment, because while he's a good person, he's a little naive. So while they aren't lovable in the Hallmark sense of the word, you will definitely be invested in Lucy and Tal's lives and well being.
Campbell is different, it's unpredictable, engaging and well written. It will make you think, and in my case, dive into a block of chocolate. I know the Campbell series is not going to be for everyone, but even if you don't 'like' it, it definitely needs to be experienced. You won't regret reading this mind expanding tale and will come away with a greater thankfulness for your life and comforts... then you'll move on to book 2, West.
December 23, 2013
I received this book from the author C.S. Starr for an honest review. Now, if you know me at all you know I love dystopian books but most of them are based on teenagers or younger kids so I was very excited to have the chance to year an adult version of one! Campbell is about mostly the United States and Canada after a disease (never really was explained) wiped out everyone 14 and older ,which left kids under the age 14 to fend for themselves. This book takes place 10 years later when the United States and Canada are split up in 3 groups, West (especially Los Angeles, California ) , Campbell (The middle ground) and East. Connor Wilde is the president or more like the dictator or the West and his second is Tal Bauman. They go to Campbell at first to try to negotiate about trade issues that did not go well. After the leader of Campbell, Lucy Campbell’s brother gets kidnapped by what the think is the East, Tal goes back to Campbell to show them that the West is on their side but are they really or does Connor Wilde have different plans? All in all, I give this book 3.5 stars. It was a hard read for me. Even though I was excited that it was an adult version of a dystopian novel I just could not make myself sit down to read it and it actually has taken me the longest to read in a long time and that is why I haven’t posted much of a blog for a couple weeks. I know I received an ARC and there can be typos and I try usually to take it with a grain of salt but there was a lot of repeated words, missed out words, misspelled words the editor in me was going nuts. Also, I just had a hard time relating to the characters. Lucy was so flip floppy, she loved Zoey then she wanted to break up and then she didn’t it was just not what I thought it would be. I would’ve liked more explanation of what happened to the adults and how the disease stopped. They don’t explain if they ever were able to find a cure it just seemed like okay there was this disease and it just died as soon as everyone over 14 was dead. Realistically, I think people would be able to still get the disease. I really appreciated C.S. Starr allowing me to read the ARC but I don’t think that I will want to take the time to read the next book, it just did not peek my interest enough.
January 9, 2014
I went back and forth for a bit on reading this book, although I'd read material from CS Starr before and knew she was a great author. Dystopian fiction isn't really my thing, but after reading other reviews of the book, I took the plunge. I'm glad I did.
After a slow start, the pace picks up significantly with Tal's second visit to Campbell - from which point I had a hard time putting it down. The story sucks you in suddenly and without apology. The characters, their relationships and the chaos the world has fallen into are approached with a realistic view that I think is a typical attribute of Starr's.
What I loved most about this story is that it's plausible. The world Starr has created is one that I could see coming to fruition if a virus does, in fact, wipe out all of the adults on the planet. It was almost an eerie reminder that the world would go on without us; a snapshot of how children would mourn and then move on to conquer. I love that the story deals with real - sometimes difficult - issues from that realistic perspective without pulling any punches. Life is hard for the characters in this story, but they are working to make the best of it.
It should be noted that this is the beginning of a series (a trilogy, I believe) and it ends in such a way to make it obvious. I was sitting on the edge of my seat for the majority of the story, and there I'll stay till the next installment in this intriguing world is released.
After a slow start, the pace picks up significantly with Tal's second visit to Campbell - from which point I had a hard time putting it down. The story sucks you in suddenly and without apology. The characters, their relationships and the chaos the world has fallen into are approached with a realistic view that I think is a typical attribute of Starr's.
What I loved most about this story is that it's plausible. The world Starr has created is one that I could see coming to fruition if a virus does, in fact, wipe out all of the adults on the planet. It was almost an eerie reminder that the world would go on without us; a snapshot of how children would mourn and then move on to conquer. I love that the story deals with real - sometimes difficult - issues from that realistic perspective without pulling any punches. Life is hard for the characters in this story, but they are working to make the best of it.
It should be noted that this is the beginning of a series (a trilogy, I believe) and it ends in such a way to make it obvious. I was sitting on the edge of my seat for the majority of the story, and there I'll stay till the next installment in this intriguing world is released.
July 20, 2016
Over the past couple of years I’ve had the privilege of being a pre-reader for several author friends, and CS Starr is one of them. Over time I thought I started to get a feel for how her brain worked, but there were so many little bits in Campbell that I didn’t see coming. It was certainly a page turner, keeping me guessing and biting my nails for these kids.
“It’s been ten years since a virus wiped out the adult population. Across the world, opportunistic kids worked to reestablish order through the creation of uneasy, fractured territories.
A decade later, the rules are changing.”
The characters in Campbell are strong and in your face, but that’s true of most of CS’s stories. Right off the bat, I liked Tal and hated Connor, then I wasn’t sure what to do with Lucy. I felt like she was a little all over the place, but it made sense when I learned her history. I loved the way the relationships layered and blended as the story built.
Campbell is a great read and the start of one heck of an adventure.
“It’s been ten years since a virus wiped out the adult population. Across the world, opportunistic kids worked to reestablish order through the creation of uneasy, fractured territories.
A decade later, the rules are changing.”
The characters in Campbell are strong and in your face, but that’s true of most of CS’s stories. Right off the bat, I liked Tal and hated Connor, then I wasn’t sure what to do with Lucy. I felt like she was a little all over the place, but it made sense when I learned her history. I loved the way the relationships layered and blended as the story built.
Campbell is a great read and the start of one heck of an adventure.
February 5, 2014
Captivating and smartly written, Campbell offers up an uncomfortably real commentary on (our) western consumerist lifestyles set in contrast to the very current survivalist trends, all while entertaining the reader with just the right balance of conflict, action, and romance.
Campbell has hit the perfect mix of relatable characters, snappy and honest dialogue (profanities included), great plot twists that keep you at the edge of your seat and enough of a back-story to leave you satisfied with the 'reality' of Campbell's dystopian setting.
Starr has a knack for storytelling that draws you in and leaves you wanting more. That's definitely a good place to be, with two more books to go in this trilogy. Combining young characters with timeless stories makes for an awesome piece of popular fiction that translates across ages - it's got all the makings of a bestseller. I definitely look forward to more!
Campbell has hit the perfect mix of relatable characters, snappy and honest dialogue (profanities included), great plot twists that keep you at the edge of your seat and enough of a back-story to leave you satisfied with the 'reality' of Campbell's dystopian setting.
Starr has a knack for storytelling that draws you in and leaves you wanting more. That's definitely a good place to be, with two more books to go in this trilogy. Combining young characters with timeless stories makes for an awesome piece of popular fiction that translates across ages - it's got all the makings of a bestseller. I definitely look forward to more!
November 8, 2013
Disclaimer:
I'm friendly with the author online and have been for some years. I had the pleasure of reading most of this book when it was still a draft and she was looking for opinions about it. I loved it then and I'm sure I'll love the new and improved published story. It's original and fun and the author is very talented. I have enjoyed her writing for years and I'm so happy and proud that she finally published her first book. I hope you enjoy it too and if you do, please spread the word about it. Thanks!
PS: I'll post my review once I'm done reading the published version, because I'm sure there were some changes/edits for the best. But if it was that kick ass before editing and publishing, I'm pretty sure it will be even more awesome now.
I'm friendly with the author online and have been for some years. I had the pleasure of reading most of this book when it was still a draft and she was looking for opinions about it. I loved it then and I'm sure I'll love the new and improved published story. It's original and fun and the author is very talented. I have enjoyed her writing for years and I'm so happy and proud that she finally published her first book. I hope you enjoy it too and if you do, please spread the word about it. Thanks!
PS: I'll post my review once I'm done reading the published version, because I'm sure there were some changes/edits for the best. But if it was that kick ass before editing and publishing, I'm pretty sure it will be even more awesome now.
May 28, 2022
This book was one that if I didn't have a 6 month old baby who was teething and needed me to take care of him, I could have read it in one sitting. It was that good. The plot was interesting, moved quickly, and kept you on your toes. C.S. Starr tells a story that spans a decade, but does it in a way that helps propel the plot forward, rather than seeming like an info dump of background plots.
The story, that's almost like "Lord of the Flies," on steroids, really makes you think about what if something like this DID happen? The political turmoil and the societal structure that C.S. Starr creates in her world are very believable to have been built up by pre-teens.
This book has something for everybody, so I highly recommend that you check it out!
The story, that's almost like "Lord of the Flies," on steroids, really makes you think about what if something like this DID happen? The political turmoil and the societal structure that C.S. Starr creates in her world are very believable to have been built up by pre-teens.
This book has something for everybody, so I highly recommend that you check it out!
December 1, 2013
Terrific read. I didn't do anything else but read once I downloaded this book. C.S. Starr takes the reader on a marvelous ride. Her writing style is "heart felt" and she has created an amazing cast of characters. I can't wait for book 2 to find out what happens.
December 13, 2013
I loved this story and can not wait for the next book. C.S. Starr writes such great characters that you that you, as a reader, develop a relationship with. This book is a must read.
May 30, 2018
Campbell
My review is two sides. The beginning I understand the author was giving background information on the main characters and then they are leaders of part of the North American continent? The flow in the beginning of the book was confusing. Then it clicked.
Other than the first chapter or two it turned into a good but different kind of story. Still have lots of questions about how this came about....maybe in book two.
Favorite quote: “What kind of validation are you looking for? Do you want a hug? Because you’re not going to get one from me.”
My review is two sides. The beginning I understand the author was giving background information on the main characters and then they are leaders of part of the North American continent? The flow in the beginning of the book was confusing. Then it clicked.
Other than the first chapter or two it turned into a good but different kind of story. Still have lots of questions about how this came about....maybe in book two.
Favorite quote: “What kind of validation are you looking for? Do you want a hug? Because you’re not going to get one from me.”
December 26, 2013
I discovered CS Starr through her fan fiction writing, and I enjoy her thoughtful blog posts. When I read the synopsis for her first original work, I was unsure as to whether I would enjoy it, and unfortunately, my ambivalence remains. Set in a not too distant future, when a virus has killed everyone aged over 12, a Lord of the Flies type scenario has developed in North America, with the territories divided between various groups and run along stereotypical lines (Canada appears to be socialist, California sleazy etc...) There was a lot of backstory to set out, and I am not sure how the virus was defeated, but the children now all seem to be well into their teens, and managing to make movies, fly planes, run hotels, and be in essence self-sufficient. Some plotting difficulties, and I am sad that I can only rate this as an OK. I won't be looking for the rest of the series.
September 29, 2014
I recommend this to readers who have wanted more from New Adult. It's got the drama and voice similiar to popular New Adult novels, but it's a futuristic survival tale instead of straight contemporary romance, plus it is thought-provoking—unlike most New Adult. My full review is available at wrapped up in books.
Disclaimer: the author is a friend of mine and gave me the book to review, but this doesn't effect my opinion.
Disclaimer: the author is a friend of mine and gave me the book to review, but this doesn't effect my opinion.
April 2, 2014
This was an experience. The setting, the characters, an interesting and complex romance. Looking forward to what comes next!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews