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The Iduna Project #1
The Forevers
Paige is nineteen and genetically altered to stay that age forever. She lives with other "Forevers" like her in the secret IdunaCo. compound, a place where age reversal and immortality has been perfected and the only rules are to live in the moment. Enjoy every minute to its fullest. Be what you want to be for a while and when you get sick of it – be something else.
It all seems perfect until Paige realizes her friends are disappearing. The official word is they’ve been kidnapped by criminals on the outside who want to use them as feeders. Feeders have a short and brutal life – kept in captivity and sucked dry of all their youth cells so the Crime Lords can stay young forever.
When Paige has a breakdown she’s rescued from the Psych Centre by her mysterious but attractive friend Junius who involves her in a daring escape from the compound. Their purpose is to infiltrate the IdunaCo organization and find out what’s really happening to the missing "Forevers". Paige’s journey is complicated by charismatic musician, Chale, a Keener whose attraction to Paige is flattering but causes tension between her and Junius.
When Chale is slated to disappear Paige and Junius save him in the midst of their escape.
Once outside they learn more about their own special powers, reveal clues to their real identity but also realize the extent to which humans will go to achieve immortality. The mission becomes so dangerous Paige is forced to the limits of her endurance and has to make tough decisions about who she can trust – Junius or Chale.
It all seems perfect until Paige realizes her friends are disappearing. The official word is they’ve been kidnapped by criminals on the outside who want to use them as feeders. Feeders have a short and brutal life – kept in captivity and sucked dry of all their youth cells so the Crime Lords can stay young forever.
When Paige has a breakdown she’s rescued from the Psych Centre by her mysterious but attractive friend Junius who involves her in a daring escape from the compound. Their purpose is to infiltrate the IdunaCo organization and find out what’s really happening to the missing "Forevers". Paige’s journey is complicated by charismatic musician, Chale, a Keener whose attraction to Paige is flattering but causes tension between her and Junius.
When Chale is slated to disappear Paige and Junius save him in the midst of their escape.
Once outside they learn more about their own special powers, reveal clues to their real identity but also realize the extent to which humans will go to achieve immortality. The mission becomes so dangerous Paige is forced to the limits of her endurance and has to make tough decisions about who she can trust – Junius or Chale.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2013
17 people are currently reading
714 people want to read
About the author
Marjorie DeLuca
12 books95 followersMarjorie DeLuca spent her childhood in the ancient cathedral city of Durham in North-Eastern England. She attended the University of London, became a teacher, and then immigrated to Canada. There she also studied writing under her mentor, Pulitzer Prize winning author, Carol Shields. She writes in many genres, including historical, suspense and YA sci-fi. She also writes for screen and TV..
Also writes as M.M. DeLuca.
Also writes as M.M. DeLuca.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 29, 2013
Full Review at: http://ramblingsonreadings.blogspot.c...
Genre: Sci-Fi
Publisher: Createspace
Pages: 436
Target Audience (In my opinion): 14 and up; some disturbing images/ideas
I was asked to provide a review for The Forever Ones by Ms. DeLuca.
I thought the idea behind this book was great. When I first read the summary blurb, I knew I had to know more. The first bit of the book was very interesting: you see all the “forevers” living the eternal party lifestyle inside the compound, completely unaware of what’s happening on the outside. And then people start disappearing. That plus the stories from Lynette, a woman who remembers things from before the compound, I was hooked. Paige is as well, becoming curious about what else is out there. I liked that she wasn’t content to sit around and party all day. Neither was her mysterious friend Junius.
I found the book's main question very compelling: Is it better to live forever? Youth becomes a currency in The Forever Ones. Throughout the story, the reader sees both the pros and cons of remaining 19 forever. It's an interesting discussion that I thought Ms. DeLuca handled well and I'm interested to see how it plays out in the second book.
Paige, the main character, was cool. I liked her voice and her independence. She was a quick thinker, swiftly adapting to high stress situations. Sometimes though, I thought she came to conclusions a little too quickly. I liked that she was in the middle when you first met her; no one special, but not a loser either. I didn’t find myself irritated by her much at all, which is fairly unusual, except when the love triangle appeared. I won’t talk about the dreaded love triangle, because by now, you probably know I dislike them.
Without giving anything away, I’d like to say that I enjoyed Junius’ storyline. I kept wanting to know more about him. I preferred him to Chale, who actually got on my nerves quite a bit. He was very mysterious though, which got a little exhausting after a while. By the end, all that mystery is worth it though. I'm assuming his character will develop a lot more in the second one, since the mystery is uncovered by the end.
I loved the strife in Realtown. I thought it was some of the most believable conflict in the story. The older crowd is considered outcast, even though they have all the money. That seemed like a unique perspective for a dystopian novel. The community was so divided, it’s a miracle anything happened at all. The first night in Realtown was very fun to read. And oh boy, the creepiness of the people ‘buying’ feeders. CREEP FACTOR TIMES A MILLION. Lets just suck these kids dry (LITERALLY), that sounds like a good plan. DeLuca made no apologies for her antagonists, presenting them in all their creepified glory. I applaud that she didn’t back down from describing the disturbing workings of the society she created.
Ok. So, as I was reading, I found myself wanting more character development. I wanted the characters to be fleshed out a little more, to gain a little more insight into what they thought about the situations they were in. Even Paige, from whose perspective this story is told. I got some information from the way she reacted to situations, but I wanted to know more.
Things seemed too easy at times. I found myself wanting more obstacles for the characters to overcome; or at least have the obstacles already present cause more conflict.This was probably my biggest qualm about this book. There were quite a few moments where our heroes were breaking into or out of some high-security place, and they did it with ease and practically no extra helpful technology, and no one came after them. There were too many successes with not enough help or obstacles; if they had been in this compound their whole lives, and they knew nothing about the outside world, wouldn’t they have had more trouble?
It was a little unbelievable. Maybe it was because there's some 'man behind the curtain' orchestrating everything, but I didn't really get that sense, even once the CEO of Iduna is revealed. (SHOCKER btw)
And I’m hoping that in the second book DeLuca gives us more information about the Crime Lords. Because that could be a really interesting story in the making. I kept wanting to know who and what exactly they were. The tension and uncertainty with that element was great; I just wish there had been a little more revealed about the Crime Lords. I'm sure that's coming in the second though.
The Forever Ones is an interesting sci-fi with a rather surprising twist at the end (something else I enjoyed quite a lot). I would have suggested another sweep by a developmental editor, to smooth out a few elements and maybe raise the stakes on some of the obstacles, but that’s strictly my opinion. It was still an entertaining read, regardless. DeLuca spent time and care at the end of The Forever Ones to set up the second, which I'm sensing will be more action/development, now that the world and the conflict have been set up.
If you like the movie The Island with Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson, it’s more than likely that you’ll like The Forever Ones.
Genre: Sci-Fi
Publisher: Createspace
Pages: 436
Target Audience (In my opinion): 14 and up; some disturbing images/ideas
I was asked to provide a review for The Forever Ones by Ms. DeLuca.
I thought the idea behind this book was great. When I first read the summary blurb, I knew I had to know more. The first bit of the book was very interesting: you see all the “forevers” living the eternal party lifestyle inside the compound, completely unaware of what’s happening on the outside. And then people start disappearing. That plus the stories from Lynette, a woman who remembers things from before the compound, I was hooked. Paige is as well, becoming curious about what else is out there. I liked that she wasn’t content to sit around and party all day. Neither was her mysterious friend Junius.
I found the book's main question very compelling: Is it better to live forever? Youth becomes a currency in The Forever Ones. Throughout the story, the reader sees both the pros and cons of remaining 19 forever. It's an interesting discussion that I thought Ms. DeLuca handled well and I'm interested to see how it plays out in the second book.
Paige, the main character, was cool. I liked her voice and her independence. She was a quick thinker, swiftly adapting to high stress situations. Sometimes though, I thought she came to conclusions a little too quickly. I liked that she was in the middle when you first met her; no one special, but not a loser either. I didn’t find myself irritated by her much at all, which is fairly unusual, except when the love triangle appeared. I won’t talk about the dreaded love triangle, because by now, you probably know I dislike them.
Without giving anything away, I’d like to say that I enjoyed Junius’ storyline. I kept wanting to know more about him. I preferred him to Chale, who actually got on my nerves quite a bit. He was very mysterious though, which got a little exhausting after a while. By the end, all that mystery is worth it though. I'm assuming his character will develop a lot more in the second one, since the mystery is uncovered by the end.
I loved the strife in Realtown. I thought it was some of the most believable conflict in the story. The older crowd is considered outcast, even though they have all the money. That seemed like a unique perspective for a dystopian novel. The community was so divided, it’s a miracle anything happened at all. The first night in Realtown was very fun to read. And oh boy, the creepiness of the people ‘buying’ feeders. CREEP FACTOR TIMES A MILLION. Lets just suck these kids dry (LITERALLY), that sounds like a good plan. DeLuca made no apologies for her antagonists, presenting them in all their creepified glory. I applaud that she didn’t back down from describing the disturbing workings of the society she created.
Ok. So, as I was reading, I found myself wanting more character development. I wanted the characters to be fleshed out a little more, to gain a little more insight into what they thought about the situations they were in. Even Paige, from whose perspective this story is told. I got some information from the way she reacted to situations, but I wanted to know more.
Things seemed too easy at times. I found myself wanting more obstacles for the characters to overcome; or at least have the obstacles already present cause more conflict.This was probably my biggest qualm about this book. There were quite a few moments where our heroes were breaking into or out of some high-security place, and they did it with ease and practically no extra helpful technology, and no one came after them. There were too many successes with not enough help or obstacles; if they had been in this compound their whole lives, and they knew nothing about the outside world, wouldn’t they have had more trouble?
It was a little unbelievable. Maybe it was because there's some 'man behind the curtain' orchestrating everything, but I didn't really get that sense, even once the CEO of Iduna is revealed. (SHOCKER btw)
And I’m hoping that in the second book DeLuca gives us more information about the Crime Lords. Because that could be a really interesting story in the making. I kept wanting to know who and what exactly they were. The tension and uncertainty with that element was great; I just wish there had been a little more revealed about the Crime Lords. I'm sure that's coming in the second though.
The Forever Ones is an interesting sci-fi with a rather surprising twist at the end (something else I enjoyed quite a lot). I would have suggested another sweep by a developmental editor, to smooth out a few elements and maybe raise the stakes on some of the obstacles, but that’s strictly my opinion. It was still an entertaining read, regardless. DeLuca spent time and care at the end of The Forever Ones to set up the second, which I'm sensing will be more action/development, now that the world and the conflict have been set up.
If you like the movie The Island with Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson, it’s more than likely that you’ll like The Forever Ones.
October 3, 2016
I was asked to provide a review for The Forever Ones by Ms. DeLuca.
I thought the idea behind this book was great. When I first read the summary blurb, I knew I had to know more. The first bit of the book was very interesting: you see all the “forevers” living the eternal party lifestyle inside the compound, completely unaware of what’s happening on the outside. And then people start disappearing. That plus the stories from Lynette, a woman who remembers things from before the compound, I was hooked. Paige is as well, becoming curious about what else is out there. I liked that she wasn’t content to sit around and party all day. Neither was her mysterious friend Junius.
I found the book's main question very compelling: Is it better to live forever? Youth becomes a currency in The Forever Ones. Throughout the story, the reader sees both the pros and cons of remaining 19 forever. It's an interesting discussion that I thought Ms. DeLuca handled well and I'm interested to see how it plays out in the second book.
Paige, the main character, was cool. I liked her voice and her independence. She was a quick thinker, swiftly adapting to high stress situations. Sometimes though, I thought she came to conclusions a little too quickly. I liked that she was in the middle when you first met her; no one special, but not a loser either. I didn’t find myself irritated by her much at all, which is fairly unusual, except when the love triangle appeared. I won’t talk about the dreaded love triangle, because by now, you probably know I dislike them.
Without giving anything away, I’d like to say that I enjoyed Junius’ storyline. I kept wanting to know more about him. I preferred him to Chale, who actually got on my nerves quite a bit. He was very mysterious though, which got a little exhausting after a while. By the end, all that mystery is worth it though. I'm assuming his character will develop a lot more in the second one, since the mystery is uncovered by the end.
I loved the strife in Realtown. I thought it was some of the most believable conflict in the story. The older crowd is considered outcast, even though they have all the money. That seemed like a unique perspective for a dystopian novel. The community was so divided, it’s a miracle anything happened at all. The first night in Realtown was very fun to read. And oh boy, the creepiness of the people ‘buying’ feeders. CREEP FACTOR TIMES A MILLION. Lets just suck these kids dry (LITERALLY), that sounds like a good plan. DeLuca made no apologies for her antagonists, presenting them in all their creepified glory. I applaud that she didn’t back down from describing the disturbing workings of the society she created.
Ok. So, as I was reading, I found myself wanting more character development. I wanted the characters to be fleshed out a little more, to gain a little more insight into what they thought about the situations they were in. Even Paige, from whose perspective this story is told. I got some information from the way she reacted to situations, but I wanted to know more.
Things seemed too easy at times. I found myself wanting more obstacles for the characters to overcome; or at least have the obstacles already present cause more conflict.This was probably my biggest qualm about this book. There were quite a few moments where our heroes were breaking into or out of some high-security place, and they did it with ease and practically no extra helpful technology, and no one came after them. There were too many successes with not enough help or obstacles; if they had been in this compound their whole lives, and they knew nothing about the outside world, wouldn’t they have had more trouble?
It was a little unbelievable. Maybe it was because there's some 'man behind the curtain' orchestrating everything, but I didn't really get that sense, even once the CEO of Iduna is revealed. (SHOCKER btw)
And I’m hoping that in the second book DeLuca gives us more information about the Crime Lords. Because that could be a really interesting story in the making. I kept wanting to know who and what exactly they were. The tension and uncertainty with that element was great; I just wish there had been a little more revealed about the Crime Lords. I'm sure that's coming in the second though.
The Forever Ones is an interesting sci-fi with a rather surprising twist at the end (something else I enjoyed quite a lot). I would have suggested another sweep by a developmental editor, to smooth out a few elements and maybe raise the stakes on some of the obstacles, but that’s strictly my opinion. It was still an entertaining read, regardless. DeLuca spent time and care at the end of The Forever Ones to set up the second, which I'm sensing will be more action/development, now that the world and the conflict have been set up.
If you like the movie The Island with Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson, it’s more than likely that you’ll like The Forever Ones.
I thought the idea behind this book was great. When I first read the summary blurb, I knew I had to know more. The first bit of the book was very interesting: you see all the “forevers” living the eternal party lifestyle inside the compound, completely unaware of what’s happening on the outside. And then people start disappearing. That plus the stories from Lynette, a woman who remembers things from before the compound, I was hooked. Paige is as well, becoming curious about what else is out there. I liked that she wasn’t content to sit around and party all day. Neither was her mysterious friend Junius.
I found the book's main question very compelling: Is it better to live forever? Youth becomes a currency in The Forever Ones. Throughout the story, the reader sees both the pros and cons of remaining 19 forever. It's an interesting discussion that I thought Ms. DeLuca handled well and I'm interested to see how it plays out in the second book.
Paige, the main character, was cool. I liked her voice and her independence. She was a quick thinker, swiftly adapting to high stress situations. Sometimes though, I thought she came to conclusions a little too quickly. I liked that she was in the middle when you first met her; no one special, but not a loser either. I didn’t find myself irritated by her much at all, which is fairly unusual, except when the love triangle appeared. I won’t talk about the dreaded love triangle, because by now, you probably know I dislike them.
Without giving anything away, I’d like to say that I enjoyed Junius’ storyline. I kept wanting to know more about him. I preferred him to Chale, who actually got on my nerves quite a bit. He was very mysterious though, which got a little exhausting after a while. By the end, all that mystery is worth it though. I'm assuming his character will develop a lot more in the second one, since the mystery is uncovered by the end.
I loved the strife in Realtown. I thought it was some of the most believable conflict in the story. The older crowd is considered outcast, even though they have all the money. That seemed like a unique perspective for a dystopian novel. The community was so divided, it’s a miracle anything happened at all. The first night in Realtown was very fun to read. And oh boy, the creepiness of the people ‘buying’ feeders. CREEP FACTOR TIMES A MILLION. Lets just suck these kids dry (LITERALLY), that sounds like a good plan. DeLuca made no apologies for her antagonists, presenting them in all their creepified glory. I applaud that she didn’t back down from describing the disturbing workings of the society she created.
Ok. So, as I was reading, I found myself wanting more character development. I wanted the characters to be fleshed out a little more, to gain a little more insight into what they thought about the situations they were in. Even Paige, from whose perspective this story is told. I got some information from the way she reacted to situations, but I wanted to know more.
Things seemed too easy at times. I found myself wanting more obstacles for the characters to overcome; or at least have the obstacles already present cause more conflict.This was probably my biggest qualm about this book. There were quite a few moments where our heroes were breaking into or out of some high-security place, and they did it with ease and practically no extra helpful technology, and no one came after them. There were too many successes with not enough help or obstacles; if they had been in this compound their whole lives, and they knew nothing about the outside world, wouldn’t they have had more trouble?
It was a little unbelievable. Maybe it was because there's some 'man behind the curtain' orchestrating everything, but I didn't really get that sense, even once the CEO of Iduna is revealed. (SHOCKER btw)
And I’m hoping that in the second book DeLuca gives us more information about the Crime Lords. Because that could be a really interesting story in the making. I kept wanting to know who and what exactly they were. The tension and uncertainty with that element was great; I just wish there had been a little more revealed about the Crime Lords. I'm sure that's coming in the second though.
The Forever Ones is an interesting sci-fi with a rather surprising twist at the end (something else I enjoyed quite a lot). I would have suggested another sweep by a developmental editor, to smooth out a few elements and maybe raise the stakes on some of the obstacles, but that’s strictly my opinion. It was still an entertaining read, regardless. DeLuca spent time and care at the end of The Forever Ones to set up the second, which I'm sensing will be more action/development, now that the world and the conflict have been set up.
If you like the movie The Island with Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson, it’s more than likely that you’ll like The Forever Ones.
See this review and others like it in a more awesome format at Ramblings On Readings
November 22, 2017
This book has a great premise and could have potentially been great. The story line is one that sucks you right in, but unfortunately it was never developed to its full potential. It feels like the entire book was too easy, the story lines were all over the place and the characters well being and statuses weren't ones that you cared about from sentence to sentence.
Instead of many different things happening at once that were all wrapped up in neat bows, there should have been more development of the things that made the book interesting. The forever's, the compound and its inner workings. More attention to other kids who weren't under the influence of the smoothies... This book leaves you wanting more and that is with me skipping sections to get to the "good parts" that unfortunately never came.
Instead of many different things happening at once that were all wrapped up in neat bows, there should have been more development of the things that made the book interesting. The forever's, the compound and its inner workings. More attention to other kids who weren't under the influence of the smoothies... This book leaves you wanting more and that is with me skipping sections to get to the "good parts" that unfortunately never came.
January 9, 2018
Oh my goodness this book was soooooo good. I can't wait to find out what happens to Paige and all the other Forevers.
September 12, 2014
*I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Well, here to my right I have my list of good and bad points, about the plot and some of the technicalities. Fist of all, I think I should give a brief description of the book:
Paige, is nineteen, and she will be forever. She's been genetically altered to stay young, and to cheat death forever. Paige's lived in the Iduna Corp compound her whole life, the only information of the outside world she has is from Lynette who hasn't been there for over half a century. She's never questioned her life before, but now everything is changing, who can she trust? Her friends are disappearing, and she's realized that she doesn't live in a lovely place, more like a prison, a caged animal ready to be sold to the highest bidder, because that's what she is.
Around 240 pages (depending on the format you're reading it in), Marjorie DeLuca will be leaving you wishing it was longer.
I like how the tension was held throughout the whole of the book, first at this confused haze and curiosity Paige has right up until the unexpected, if slightly suspicious ending. I completely loved the plot.
Well, here to my right I have my list of good and bad points, about the plot and some of the technicalities. Fist of all, I think I should give a brief description of the book:
Paige, is nineteen, and she will be forever. She's been genetically altered to stay young, and to cheat death forever. Paige's lived in the Iduna Corp compound her whole life, the only information of the outside world she has is from Lynette who hasn't been there for over half a century. She's never questioned her life before, but now everything is changing, who can she trust? Her friends are disappearing, and she's realized that she doesn't live in a lovely place, more like a prison, a caged animal ready to be sold to the highest bidder, because that's what she is.
Around 240 pages (depending on the format you're reading it in), Marjorie DeLuca will be leaving you wishing it was longer.
I like how the tension was held throughout the whole of the book, first at this confused haze and curiosity Paige has right up until the unexpected, if slightly suspicious ending. I completely loved the plot.
June 29, 2014
There was too much going on in this book that I found rather confusing. The pace is fast, too fast. I kept trying to keep up with character’s names and what roles they played. It was very hard to focus on one scenario, and then all of a sudden there’s something else happening. I love the plot, although it isn’t original. The perfectness of the world that the characters originate from is great, it’s the outside world that I couldn’t wrap my head around. Every obstacle that the characters encountered was overcome almost too perfectly. I like danger, so when the all of a sudden the answer presents itself not two seconds from the pondering, it makes me feel like the author rushed to make the characters seem invincible. Example: Paige and crew needed to rescue Junius and had no way of getting passed security or whatever, and then a character comes into the picture who happens to have what they need to get in and soon they are knocking him out and taking what they need. Another thing that I thought was rather odd, Paige ends up in a club that her “relative” just happens to be a bartender at. I was like, “really?” If you read the book, then you will get why this was so odd, seeing as Paige has never met her “donor” parents and has been living “forever”, without aging so she doesn’t really know if she’s talking to her brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, etc…. It was all too much and only made me want to stop reading.
Then, there’s the little love triangle going on with Paige, Junius and Chale. I really wanted to stop reading once that particular scenario started coming to fruition. I don’t like LOVE TRIANGLES, or even like the hint of them. I know that is the thing in YA books, but shouldn’t it be burned out by now? Okay, moving on… Did I mention that along with the immortality, that they also possess hidden powers that makes them more alert, stronger, and more stealthy? They just have to go into a sort of meditation mode and they’re all set. It’s not odd considering this is science fiction, but where does it end? Like I said, there is entirely too much going on in this book that it’s hard to keep track of. Forevers, Keeners, ARPs, Feeders, Crime Lords, the characterizations are endless. It’s like the author tried to bring this century into this dystopian world that was created by recalling stories from another character who happened to live way back when, before the Iduna Corp swooped in. Places like Minnie-Apolis were mentioned (that’s how Paige interpreted Lynette mentioning Minneapolis), and things like cellphones and cars were foreign to these characters. If this is a world in the future, why bring up the past? Or at least, make the back-story more interesting when being compared to a place that can conjure of robotic parrots and fake sand. I just can’t picture this world like it’s described because of the fast pacing.
I have received book 2, The Parasites, for review as well. Out of courtesy to the author, I will read and review it. I can’t find it in me to recommend this book, especially to a lover of YA Dystopia. Maybe it’s just me, but others would probably get the picture better than me. Hopefully, book 2 will be better and make me like this series. I can’t pass judgement on the series as it comes to be, so I will see after I read the next book if it is even worth exploring future books in this series.
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Then, there’s the little love triangle going on with Paige, Junius and Chale. I really wanted to stop reading once that particular scenario started coming to fruition. I don’t like LOVE TRIANGLES, or even like the hint of them. I know that is the thing in YA books, but shouldn’t it be burned out by now? Okay, moving on… Did I mention that along with the immortality, that they also possess hidden powers that makes them more alert, stronger, and more stealthy? They just have to go into a sort of meditation mode and they’re all set. It’s not odd considering this is science fiction, but where does it end? Like I said, there is entirely too much going on in this book that it’s hard to keep track of. Forevers, Keeners, ARPs, Feeders, Crime Lords, the characterizations are endless. It’s like the author tried to bring this century into this dystopian world that was created by recalling stories from another character who happened to live way back when, before the Iduna Corp swooped in. Places like Minnie-Apolis were mentioned (that’s how Paige interpreted Lynette mentioning Minneapolis), and things like cellphones and cars were foreign to these characters. If this is a world in the future, why bring up the past? Or at least, make the back-story more interesting when being compared to a place that can conjure of robotic parrots and fake sand. I just can’t picture this world like it’s described because of the fast pacing.
I have received book 2, The Parasites, for review as well. Out of courtesy to the author, I will read and review it. I can’t find it in me to recommend this book, especially to a lover of YA Dystopia. Maybe it’s just me, but others would probably get the picture better than me. Hopefully, book 2 will be better and make me like this series. I can’t pass judgement on the series as it comes to be, so I will see after I read the next book if it is even worth exploring future books in this series.
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
September 30, 2013
Forever is only the beginning of the end of all things…
This inventive and original science fiction, Young Adult story contains many interesting concepts and unusual ideas. It has the flavour of Suzanne Collins “The Hunger Games” with an altogether distinct style, in which the author combines varying genre (such as Dystopia and romance). I was captivated by the book’s blurb and intrigued by the premise of this story, which sounded so unlike anything else I have encountered within this genre. Marjorie DeLuca has created a fascinating world and provides a singular outlook on Immortality, for instance with the manmade ‘forevers’. Fabulously fun and exciting ‘The Forever Ones’ is an innovative, character-driven tale that combines many elements within great sci-fi films. The Matrix and Battlestar Galaccctica were two films that instantly came to mind, as I delved deeper into this futuristic fusion of fantasy and the unexplained.
Is this your girlfriend?" she asks Chale and her lips crinkle upwards in a smile. There's an uncomfortable silence and I'm about to protest when Chale says, "No - but I'd like her to be."
- Quote
Short Synopsis ~
Paige is a nineteen year old, beautiful girl who doesn’t age because of being a ‘Forever’. She is genetically modified and so consequently remains beautiful forever. She lives alongside other Forevers in a containment facility, in wonderful comfort and happiness. When mysterious disappearances cast a shadow over Paige’s life, soon sinister secrets and lies unveil the camouflage that has made her life seem so perfect.
Complete with a love triangle between Paige, Junius and Chale this YA romance is simply sparkling!
The world building and descriptions on setting and environment is admirable, therefore you are able to clearly visualise Paige’s world. The fast-paced writing style was very engaging, and so I found myself reading faster as I eagerly followed the storyline to the end. Marjorie is a talented, accomplished writer whose creativity and vision is truly inspired. I found the entire concept of this novel utterly remarkable, with this story not only being an enjoyable read but deeply compelling too. The unexpected surprises within the plot were a delight, as too were the convincing characters and tense scenarios. Being the first instalment within a planned trilogy, I am very enthusiastic as to obtaining a copy of the next book and continuing the thrilling journey.
Fans of sci-fi and dystopian fiction, (for example The Hunger Games, Divergent, The eternity cure etc.) will simply LOVE this brilliant book.
*I won a copy of “The Forever Ones” by Marjorie DeLuca through a Goodreads, First-Read giveaway*
This inventive and original science fiction, Young Adult story contains many interesting concepts and unusual ideas. It has the flavour of Suzanne Collins “The Hunger Games” with an altogether distinct style, in which the author combines varying genre (such as Dystopia and romance). I was captivated by the book’s blurb and intrigued by the premise of this story, which sounded so unlike anything else I have encountered within this genre. Marjorie DeLuca has created a fascinating world and provides a singular outlook on Immortality, for instance with the manmade ‘forevers’. Fabulously fun and exciting ‘The Forever Ones’ is an innovative, character-driven tale that combines many elements within great sci-fi films. The Matrix and Battlestar Galaccctica were two films that instantly came to mind, as I delved deeper into this futuristic fusion of fantasy and the unexplained.
Is this your girlfriend?" she asks Chale and her lips crinkle upwards in a smile. There's an uncomfortable silence and I'm about to protest when Chale says, "No - but I'd like her to be."
- Quote
Short Synopsis ~
Paige is a nineteen year old, beautiful girl who doesn’t age because of being a ‘Forever’. She is genetically modified and so consequently remains beautiful forever. She lives alongside other Forevers in a containment facility, in wonderful comfort and happiness. When mysterious disappearances cast a shadow over Paige’s life, soon sinister secrets and lies unveil the camouflage that has made her life seem so perfect.
Complete with a love triangle between Paige, Junius and Chale this YA romance is simply sparkling!
The world building and descriptions on setting and environment is admirable, therefore you are able to clearly visualise Paige’s world. The fast-paced writing style was very engaging, and so I found myself reading faster as I eagerly followed the storyline to the end. Marjorie is a talented, accomplished writer whose creativity and vision is truly inspired. I found the entire concept of this novel utterly remarkable, with this story not only being an enjoyable read but deeply compelling too. The unexpected surprises within the plot were a delight, as too were the convincing characters and tense scenarios. Being the first instalment within a planned trilogy, I am very enthusiastic as to obtaining a copy of the next book and continuing the thrilling journey.
Fans of sci-fi and dystopian fiction, (for example The Hunger Games, Divergent, The eternity cure etc.) will simply LOVE this brilliant book.
*I won a copy of “The Forever Ones” by Marjorie DeLuca through a Goodreads, First-Read giveaway*
August 9, 2013
I received a copy of The Forever Ones in exchange for an honest review!
I'm a huge sci-fi fan and I was really intrigued by the blurb and premise of the manmade 'forevers'. Marjorie DeLuca provides an interesting take on the immortality story, all wrapped up in a fun YA sci-fi bundle.
Paige is a 'Forever', a beautiful and genetically modified 19-year-old, who is effectively immortal. The 'Forevers' live in perfect comfort and happiness in a containment facility, where they will remain eternally young and beautiful.
I liked Paige, because in a world which screamed 'stick with the status quo' she always asks questions and can see past the matrix-esq front (no it's not a computer thing so don't worry), where others are blissfully ignorant of their situation. As Paige uncovers more secrets and lies, she is faced with even more questions and never really knows who to trust.
The love triangle: Guy #1 is her friend and fellow thinker Junius. I liked Junius, although I never really felt he was all that trustworthy. Guy #2 is her popular musician friend Chale. Chale often seemed too good to be true and I was constantly expecting him to turn on her. Actually, in reflection I can honestly say I didn't entirely trust either of them!
The Forever Ones reminded me of an amalgamation of several sci-fi stories/films, including: The Island (because of the corrupt and sinister corporation), The Hunger Games series (in that there was a war brewing and an evil corrupt leader), Battlestar Galactica (because of the question of immortality and reality), and The Matrix (with the perfect lifestyle presented to the clueless forevers).
I'll definitely read the follow up, but I really hope we learn more about Chale and Junius - maybe they are both untrustworthy?! The Crime Lords and the forthcoming battle if done right has the potential for sci-fi greatness! If you like all things sci-fi and dystopian then The Forever Ones is prob your sort of thing?!
4 Stars in my Sky!
My fav non-spoilery quotes:
•"I'm just missing someone I never met." "That's the weirdest thing I've heard today."
•"Is this your girlfriend?" she asks Chale and her lips crinkle upwards in a smile. There's an uncomfortable silence and I'm about to protest when Chale says, "No - but I'd like her to be."
•"I've been totally honest and you know I'd never let you down." His head droops. "I know. That's why I care so much about you."
Also reviewed on my blog Zili in the Sky
November 11, 2013
The author gave me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I would like to thank the author for generously giving me a copy of her book. However, I didn't think it was that great. It had really great potential and was a really good and original idea. The execution just wasn't good enough for me. It was actually kind of confusing in some parts.
The story is about Paige who is 19-years-old and will always be 19. She lives in an underground world with other 19-year-old forevers in a place of ignorant bliss. After realizing that the world she knows is a lie that makes them so stupid and blissful, and ends up selling them to old rich folk in the outside for piles of money so the old can suck their souls out and stay young, she decides to escape with some of her friends. The book is a gripping one with something always happening.
The character development was lacking from start to finish. Relating with the characters and feeling an emotional connection to them is an important factor in the reading experience. This book lacked that connection to the characters. I didn't really know who they all really were.
The love triangle was confusing. I didn't really know how Paige felt for either of those guys. She didn't really share any of her emotions. It was all what was going on, not the emotions she was going through.
I also wasn't really impressed with the world building. It was difficult to know exactly where they were at and what this futuristic world really looked like. Maybe if the story would have been longer, she could have developed this world a little more thoroughly.
While there was a lot of things that happened and I was curious as to what would happen next, everything just seemed to easy for them. Everything was just so convenient. I would've preferred a little more conflict.
Not to mention, it just seems like there's some political undertones in the book. With the rich being evil and all that. Also I didn't appreciate the line "innocent people died for nothing" when the talk about the war in Iraq was brought up. While I'm not sure if the person that said that is a good person or a bad person. I'm also unsure for certain if that's what was meant, or if that's just what it sounded like to me. I know there are people that truly believe that and that really bugs me when they're dying for our freedom.
I am somewhat curious as to what will happen next and do hope the author continues with the series. But overall, it was just okay. But I do again thank the author for the chance to read this.
First of all, I would like to thank the author for generously giving me a copy of her book. However, I didn't think it was that great. It had really great potential and was a really good and original idea. The execution just wasn't good enough for me. It was actually kind of confusing in some parts.
The story is about Paige who is 19-years-old and will always be 19. She lives in an underground world with other 19-year-old forevers in a place of ignorant bliss. After realizing that the world she knows is a lie that makes them so stupid and blissful, and ends up selling them to old rich folk in the outside for piles of money so the old can suck their souls out and stay young, she decides to escape with some of her friends. The book is a gripping one with something always happening.
The character development was lacking from start to finish. Relating with the characters and feeling an emotional connection to them is an important factor in the reading experience. This book lacked that connection to the characters. I didn't really know who they all really were.
The love triangle was confusing. I didn't really know how Paige felt for either of those guys. She didn't really share any of her emotions. It was all what was going on, not the emotions she was going through.
I also wasn't really impressed with the world building. It was difficult to know exactly where they were at and what this futuristic world really looked like. Maybe if the story would have been longer, she could have developed this world a little more thoroughly.
While there was a lot of things that happened and I was curious as to what would happen next, everything just seemed to easy for them. Everything was just so convenient. I would've preferred a little more conflict.
Not to mention, it just seems like there's some political undertones in the book. With the rich being evil and all that. Also I didn't appreciate the line "innocent people died for nothing" when the talk about the war in Iraq was brought up. While I'm not sure if the person that said that is a good person or a bad person. I'm also unsure for certain if that's what was meant, or if that's just what it sounded like to me. I know there are people that truly believe that and that really bugs me when they're dying for our freedom.
I am somewhat curious as to what will happen next and do hope the author continues with the series. But overall, it was just okay. But I do again thank the author for the chance to read this.
October 27, 2013
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank Marjorie DeLuca, author of The Forever Ones, for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
In this book we meet the forever ones who have been genetically altered to remain youthful and immortal and are kept within the guarded Iduna Corp compound. They have an easy life and get to do whatever they want and be as they like but the truth is not so simple and luxurious. There are grave secrets that are about to surface and throw the life of the forever ones in to chaos. Paige, a forever one steps in this matter and with the help of her friend/boyfriend Junius and Chale, towards who she feels an undeniable attraction, will try to solve the mystery. But what if you don’t know what’s lurking outside? Will you still step outside? Whom to trust? Whom to suspect? Are you lifelong beliefs just a well framed lie?
I really loved this story and liked the whole concept of the forever ones. Where there is a love triangle you’ll find me digging in it and I got that excitement here, maybe because I’m confused about guy issues too in my own life and I bet that most of you are as well. Well, the plot is well planned out and I liked Paige a lot, she is confident and kick-ass and has guy issues (Lol)! I liked Chale more, what about you, girls? The writing style of the author was new to me but I got accustomed quite well. It’s fast-paced and has some serious actions. The mystery element is breath-taking and the grave secrets are really eerie and made me anxious to know them. If you want to have a blast then go for this book guys, you’ll like it, I bet!
Firstly I would like to thank Marjorie DeLuca, author of The Forever Ones, for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
In this book we meet the forever ones who have been genetically altered to remain youthful and immortal and are kept within the guarded Iduna Corp compound. They have an easy life and get to do whatever they want and be as they like but the truth is not so simple and luxurious. There are grave secrets that are about to surface and throw the life of the forever ones in to chaos. Paige, a forever one steps in this matter and with the help of her friend/boyfriend Junius and Chale, towards who she feels an undeniable attraction, will try to solve the mystery. But what if you don’t know what’s lurking outside? Will you still step outside? Whom to trust? Whom to suspect? Are you lifelong beliefs just a well framed lie?
I really loved this story and liked the whole concept of the forever ones. Where there is a love triangle you’ll find me digging in it and I got that excitement here, maybe because I’m confused about guy issues too in my own life and I bet that most of you are as well. Well, the plot is well planned out and I liked Paige a lot, she is confident and kick-ass and has guy issues (Lol)! I liked Chale more, what about you, girls? The writing style of the author was new to me but I got accustomed quite well. It’s fast-paced and has some serious actions. The mystery element is breath-taking and the grave secrets are really eerie and made me anxious to know them. If you want to have a blast then go for this book guys, you’ll like it, I bet!
January 1, 2015
First off, I never thought I'd say this about a book but it is entirely too fast paced. Things are happening left and right and you barely have time to keep up with the changes. Also, the ridiculously easy solutions to certain situations is completely unrealistic. Just to give one example from the book, the heroine Paige is running through a forest that catches on fire when she suddenly finds a sprinkler valve in the middle of the woods to put the fire out.
Now on to Paige herself. She seems witty enough for your average heroine in a story, but the fact that she is crying in what feels like every other chapter makes me doubt her abilities as a strong leader. Her love triangle with Junius and Chale is a little confusing because we're not sure how she feels about either of them, but that's okay because we've seen that same thing in other YA books.
And now on to the actual writing itself. I think Ms. DeLuca (who was nice enough to give me copies of both this book and the next in the series for an honest review) needs a new editor and a thesaurus. There were certain phrases and grammatical errors that were repeated throughout the book and spelling errors when it came to at least one character's name. It switches from Tanya to Tania so many times it almost made my head spin and I found myself going back in the book many times to make sure it wasn't two different people because there are other characters with names that sound the same but are spelled differently.
All that being said there were a lot of things that could go right with this story line that didn't quite make it. It is a decent book but not one that I would find myself recommending to anyone or reading again.
Now on to Paige herself. She seems witty enough for your average heroine in a story, but the fact that she is crying in what feels like every other chapter makes me doubt her abilities as a strong leader. Her love triangle with Junius and Chale is a little confusing because we're not sure how she feels about either of them, but that's okay because we've seen that same thing in other YA books.
And now on to the actual writing itself. I think Ms. DeLuca (who was nice enough to give me copies of both this book and the next in the series for an honest review) needs a new editor and a thesaurus. There were certain phrases and grammatical errors that were repeated throughout the book and spelling errors when it came to at least one character's name. It switches from Tanya to Tania so many times it almost made my head spin and I found myself going back in the book many times to make sure it wasn't two different people because there are other characters with names that sound the same but are spelled differently.
All that being said there were a lot of things that could go right with this story line that didn't quite make it. It is a decent book but not one that I would find myself recommending to anyone or reading again.
August 26, 2014
The Forever Ones is a story about a girl named Paige. Paige is a "Forever", people who doesn't age and will stay beautiful forever. The Forevers live in the Iduna Corp. Compound in an utopian universe. That is, until people start to disappear. People such as Paige's friends. When Paige and her friends starts to investigate the disapperance and their reasons, their paradise starts to crumble as they find out what's being kept from the Forevers.
Marjorie DeLuca is definately a talented writer, however I find that this book is written too fast paced. I have nothing against a fast paced novel, but this one needs to slow down. The fast paced writing worked well in some parts, but didn't in other parts. In other words; The fast pace wasn't balanced well enough with more slowed dowwn parts. Other than that, the novel was written well.
To sum things up:
I liked "The Forever Ones", but it was too fast paced. The plot was original and I enjoyed it. I will probably read the next book in the series.
*I got this book free from the author in exchange for a review*
October 1, 2014
this was an ok book, similar in away to the movie the Island with Scarlett Johanssen & Ewan MacGregor. Forever's are immortal creations, oblivious to the outside world,living the care free life,they have everything they need yet once in a while they dissappear and new Forevers called keeners replace them. Paige and the others start to take notice and discover a frightening world outside their compound. Forevers are made to be fed upon by humans, drained of their stem cells to keep humans from aging. This story has twist & turns that keep you going as Forevers seem to be evolving with unique abilities far beyond their what their creators had imagined. If you like futuristic dystopian type sci-fi novels than you should enjoy this book and the series.
October 27, 2014
2.5 stars
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
There wasn’t anything horribly wrong with this book; I just struggled to stay awake.
I didn’t really like any of the characters in this, and I found them all pretty forgettable.
The storyline just bored me. I don’t know whether this was just a case of wrong-person wrong-book (which I suspect) but I just could not keep focused on this book. Stuff happened and I didn’t care, people died, and I didn’t care, I’d get to the end of a page, and have absolutely no idea what had happened. It went in, and went right back out again.
There was some romance, but I didn’t care for it, and the end wasn’t much of an ending. I may need some Dutch courage to make it through the second book though.
5 out of 10.
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
There wasn’t anything horribly wrong with this book; I just struggled to stay awake.
I didn’t really like any of the characters in this, and I found them all pretty forgettable.
The storyline just bored me. I don’t know whether this was just a case of wrong-person wrong-book (which I suspect) but I just could not keep focused on this book. Stuff happened and I didn’t care, people died, and I didn’t care, I’d get to the end of a page, and have absolutely no idea what had happened. It went in, and went right back out again.
There was some romance, but I didn’t care for it, and the end wasn’t much of an ending. I may need some Dutch courage to make it through the second book though.
5 out of 10.
February 10, 2017
Well written, interesting read. I have a believability problem with part of the premise; hopefully it will get solved in the 2nd and 3rd books in the series. Also, the book is titled The Forevers, not The Forever Ones.
September 1, 2013
Plot: 2 stars
Characters: 2 stars
Style: 2 stars
Pace: 2 stars
The only positive thing I can say about this book is at least it was fast paced. Well, that's not entirely positive, as it led to basically no character or world development, a forced, stiff, and dull style, complete with talking heads without distinct enough voices to be able to tell who was talking, and me basically skimming large chunks in hopes something redeemed it. I realize the characters were supposed to look like barbies, practically, but this reminded me of reading a script acted out by dolls. Add in world building logic fails and inconsistencies, and typos/word misuses galore, and I'm rounding up for effort.
Characters: 2 stars
Style: 2 stars
Pace: 2 stars
The only positive thing I can say about this book is at least it was fast paced. Well, that's not entirely positive, as it led to basically no character or world development, a forced, stiff, and dull style, complete with talking heads without distinct enough voices to be able to tell who was talking, and me basically skimming large chunks in hopes something redeemed it. I realize the characters were supposed to look like barbies, practically, but this reminded me of reading a script acted out by dolls. Add in world building logic fails and inconsistencies, and typos/word misuses galore, and I'm rounding up for effort.
November 25, 2014
Set in the future near the end of the 21st Century, "The Forever Ones" is a fast-paced page-turner that asks a provocative question: What would happen to our world if scientists were to find a way to reverse the aging process? Through interesting characters bearing New Age names like Chale and Junius and fascinating descriptions of a futuristic Los Angeles and Washington D.C., Marjorie DeLuca explores this question, giving us a nicely-realized story that provides some answers, but also leaves many mysteries to be resolved in the next two books of The Iduna Project trilogy. This novel is suitable for the YA audience and would be a good choice for the smart, savvy reluctant reader.
October 11, 2013
I really enjoyed reading this book. I liked the writing style and flow of the story. The plot was original and unpredictable. Sometimes things seemed to be too conveniently easy to achieve. That is why I didn't give this book five stars. The world was wonderful, but I felt that if some of the conflicts were more difficult and challenging to overcome, it would have made the story much fuller and turned a good book into a great one! I received this book for free through a Goodreads First Reads give away.
October 22, 2013
Marjorie DeLuca is a talented writer and I enjoyed reading this novel. Her characters were interesting as was the concept of the story. The story moves at a quick pace and offers a couple plot surprises. This is the first novel in a trilogy and I look forward to the next installment.
http://dsmcknight.blogspot.com/2013/0...
http://dsmcknight.blogspot.com/2013/0...
October 11, 2014
I really enjoyed this story, I love Chale. I wish I know how she felt about both of them. The only part I didn't like was how it got repetitive, it was always before I could do this, this happened. I'm not sure how many times I've read that over & over, but overall I liked the story, very intriguing.
July 5, 2016
Good
The book has a fresh and different take on a subject that has been written about. I was hooked from the start and finished the book in one day. I read every spare minute can't wait to see what's really going on and who is really who!
The book has a fresh and different take on a subject that has been written about. I was hooked from the start and finished the book in one day. I read every spare minute can't wait to see what's really going on and who is really who!
November 4, 2014
It sounded like a good read.....but the execution just wasn't there. Maybe it get's better later in the series.. but I don't really want to spend money to find out.
February 8, 2016
*3.5 stars
May 12, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. It certainly made you think that what they were doing in this book could happen one day.
I found the plot exciting and absorbing.
I would recommend this book.
I found the plot exciting and absorbing.
I would recommend this book.
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