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Reach
A boy with martian genetics. A government with nefarious secrets. A complex game of power that challenges right and wrong.
For fourteen years Reach has lived with his mother, helping with research projects, attending school, and studying the game of chess. Everything is followed to standard regulation and everything is classified — even information about Reach himself —until the day a government official arrives and makes a move on the chess board of Reach’s life.In Nation, the greatest honor is serving on a space mission. Those who come back alive are heroes, if they follow orders. When Reach is chosen, he learns dangerous secrets about himself and the government. As he navigates the complex politics of Nation, Reach relies on his skills for survival. Faced with high stake choices, Reach must decide what he’s willing to risk. Will he be successful in forging his own path, or die trying?
In chess, even a pawn can checkmate.
For fourteen years Reach has lived with his mother, helping with research projects, attending school, and studying the game of chess. Everything is followed to standard regulation and everything is classified — even information about Reach himself —until the day a government official arrives and makes a move on the chess board of Reach’s life.In Nation, the greatest honor is serving on a space mission. Those who come back alive are heroes, if they follow orders. When Reach is chosen, he learns dangerous secrets about himself and the government. As he navigates the complex politics of Nation, Reach relies on his skills for survival. Faced with high stake choices, Reach must decide what he’s willing to risk. Will he be successful in forging his own path, or die trying?
In chess, even a pawn can checkmate.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
10 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 8, 2024
I cannot believe this is O McCarthy's debut novel because it was superbly well written.
Sometimes it can be really hard to immerse yourself into a dystopian society. But this one I was immediately pulled into that world and I think I disliked it as much as the MC. You never knew who to trust, what the game was, and what twist and turn was coming next.
I loved that this is only from the MMC's point of view because you don't see that often. It was also fun to be able to start the book with him at 14 and see him age as the book progresses. So not only do we see him mentally change, but physical and emotionally as well.
If you are looking for a clean dystopian trilogy with a sci-fi twist and a slow burn romance definitely give this one a go!
Though there isn't a happily ever after it does end at a natural spot without too much of a cliffhanger, but you will want to read the next book ASAP!
Well done Olivia! You definitely Reached 5 stars on this one!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 1.5ish. Non descriptive kisses.
Zero Swearing
Sometimes it can be really hard to immerse yourself into a dystopian society. But this one I was immediately pulled into that world and I think I disliked it as much as the MC. You never knew who to trust, what the game was, and what twist and turn was coming next.
I loved that this is only from the MMC's point of view because you don't see that often. It was also fun to be able to start the book with him at 14 and see him age as the book progresses. So not only do we see him mentally change, but physical and emotionally as well.
If you are looking for a clean dystopian trilogy with a sci-fi twist and a slow burn romance definitely give this one a go!
Though there isn't a happily ever after it does end at a natural spot without too much of a cliffhanger, but you will want to read the next book ASAP!
Well done Olivia! You definitely Reached 5 stars on this one!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 1.5ish. Non descriptive kisses.
Zero Swearing
October 30, 2024
Reach by O McCarthy was a fun, thrilling read! I’m a huge fan of dystopian but a little iffy on sci-fi. When I read the description of this novel, I knew I had to sign up and I am grateful the author trusted me with an advanced e-copy to read and review! This was the perfect blend of dystopian and sci-fi - enough to understand what is going on without being too technical or overly scientific. The romance was light (and not the main focus of the novel) and clean - I highly recommend this for any dystopian or sci-fi-loving teens in your life!
Reach, our main male character, is a teen thrown into a game he never signed up for. Thrust into confusion and chaos at the age of 14, Reach is torn from the only life he knew. The political intrigue and mysterious circumstances surrounding his very existence make for a thrilling read. The plot twists were great and kept you on your toes! The end does leave us on a cliffhanger and I’ll be (im)patiently waiting for the second novel to arrive. 😂 I grew quite attached to some of the side characters in this novel and I’m anxious to see if we’ll see more of them in future installments.
There were sections of the middle that were slow for me but I feel they were necessary. They give you a better understanding of what is going on and all that Reach is going through. The author does an excellent job with character development and growth. There were a few twists with some of my favorite characters that I didn’t see coming and I love when I can be surprised! She also does an excellent job with the villain - it's great when a book can make me hate a character! 😅
Thanks to the author, I was given a free advance copy of this novel to read and review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own!
Reach, our main male character, is a teen thrown into a game he never signed up for. Thrust into confusion and chaos at the age of 14, Reach is torn from the only life he knew. The political intrigue and mysterious circumstances surrounding his very existence make for a thrilling read. The plot twists were great and kept you on your toes! The end does leave us on a cliffhanger and I’ll be (im)patiently waiting for the second novel to arrive. 😂 I grew quite attached to some of the side characters in this novel and I’m anxious to see if we’ll see more of them in future installments.
There were sections of the middle that were slow for me but I feel they were necessary. They give you a better understanding of what is going on and all that Reach is going through. The author does an excellent job with character development and growth. There were a few twists with some of my favorite characters that I didn’t see coming and I love when I can be surprised! She also does an excellent job with the villain - it's great when a book can make me hate a character! 😅
Thanks to the author, I was given a free advance copy of this novel to read and review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own!
October 14, 2024
I was super excited when I received my eARC of 𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘾𝙃 by O. McCarthy as I love trying books by debut authors and dystopian is a genre that has a special place in my heart; I’m happy to say I was not disappointed!
If you love YA dystopian and sci-fi books, this is definitely for you. 𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘾𝙃 was well written with a compelling plot and interesting characters. In many ways its setting is reminiscent of a traditional fictional dystopian society, but with its own unique twists. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would especially recommend it to teens.
A word of warning: after finishing 𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘾𝙃 you will probably want to immediately pick up the next book which hopefully comes out next year!
𝙍𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝘿𝙖𝙩𝙚: 1st November 2024
𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨: For the Stars | Book 1
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: YA Sci-fi Dystopian
𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩: Level 3 - Kissing
𝘼𝙜𝙚𝙨: 14+
***I am very grateful to Olivia McCarthy for this wonderful eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
If you love YA dystopian and sci-fi books, this is definitely for you. 𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘾𝙃 was well written with a compelling plot and interesting characters. In many ways its setting is reminiscent of a traditional fictional dystopian society, but with its own unique twists. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would especially recommend it to teens.
A word of warning: after finishing 𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘾𝙃 you will probably want to immediately pick up the next book which hopefully comes out next year!
𝙍𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝘿𝙖𝙩𝙚: 1st November 2024
𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨: For the Stars | Book 1
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: YA Sci-fi Dystopian
𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩: Level 3 - Kissing
𝘼𝙜𝙚𝙨: 14+
***I am very grateful to Olivia McCarthy for this wonderful eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
November 9, 2024
This book was so good!
I didn't know what to expect going into it. But I really enjoyed it. It focused on the politics more than action, which is perfectly okay with me. I think that we SHOULD focus more on politics in books, especially YA, because it can help teenagers make sense of real-world political issues. It tackled topics such as censorship, the dangers of modern feminism, and the value of human life.
I also really loved how it showed how people can crack underneath constant pressure and lose sight of the overall goal.
The only real critique I have is that I would have liked more of a resolution at the ending. However, the ending did really set things up nicely for the second book.
I didn't know what to expect going into it. But I really enjoyed it. It focused on the politics more than action, which is perfectly okay with me. I think that we SHOULD focus more on politics in books, especially YA, because it can help teenagers make sense of real-world political issues. It tackled topics such as censorship, the dangers of modern feminism, and the value of human life.
I also really loved how it showed how people can crack underneath constant pressure and lose sight of the overall goal.
The only real critique I have is that I would have liked more of a resolution at the ending. However, the ending did really set things up nicely for the second book.
October 17, 2024
I received an ARC of Reach, my review is 100% mine. Wow! This book was incredible! It was a little hard to follow at first when you are learning all the characters and the government. Once you get past that and figure it out it is so good!! This is such a cool concept of a book, I’ve never read anything like it. This book isn’t even out yet and I already need the second book! Reach is the MMC who is raised by a scientist until he is 14. There is so much I can say but I don’t want to spoil the book! This is a must read!
November 1, 2024
Epically Amazing
Wow.
I don't even have words right now I am in such a book hangover.
REACH has so many amazing things
1. Game theory
2. Corrupt government
3. Forbidden romance
4. Emotional turmoil
5. A SANDERLAUNCHE
You heard me. The last fourth of this book you cannot put down because your mind is blown by the epicness of everything.
If you love Brandon Sanderson's cytonics series then his book is for you!
It is sci-fi without being overly technical. It's got space and science that is easy to understand for any teenager while keeping things epic and keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Reach has such an amazing growth arc, and the side characters are so fantastic.
Amazing.
One of the best sci-fi YA books I've read in a long time!
💋A few kisses
⚠️Check the front of the book for content warnings
Wow.
I don't even have words right now I am in such a book hangover.
REACH has so many amazing things
1. Game theory
2. Corrupt government
3. Forbidden romance
4. Emotional turmoil
5. A SANDERLAUNCHE
You heard me. The last fourth of this book you cannot put down because your mind is blown by the epicness of everything.
If you love Brandon Sanderson's cytonics series then his book is for you!
It is sci-fi without being overly technical. It's got space and science that is easy to understand for any teenager while keeping things epic and keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Reach has such an amazing growth arc, and the side characters are so fantastic.
Amazing.
One of the best sci-fi YA books I've read in a long time!
💋A few kisses
⚠️Check the front of the book for content warnings
October 24, 2024
It seems I've been on a sci-fi dystopian kick lately, and Reach is a great addition to that list! I didn't know what to expect exactly with the mention of martian genetics, secret government plot, and chess, but it was a great read! (Random: I love chess, especially when I'm the one losing lol)
Story: 4/5
Worldview: 4/5
Story: The action begins from Chapter 1 with a sudden twist, which was a great hook and premise for the rest of the novel. I loved seeing Reach's relationship with his mom; she really came across like such a determined, honorable mother. As the story progressed, I loved meeting other characters, like Dr. Jog, Dr. Geo, Lift, and Llama. Since the novel talked so much about game theory, I really wasn't sure who to trust at every turn! Some of these moments really reminded me of the Hunger Games, too. My only note with story is that early chapters tended to explain a lot of information at once, so the pacing slowed down a bit, but it picked right back up again at the right time. :)
Worldview: The main message of the novel seems to be rooted in trust, loyalty, and standing up for what's right no matter what it costs you. I loved Reach as an underdog kind of character, disadvantaged in almost every situation but also clever enough to figure it out. Reach and Llama are the main love interests, and they were really cute with their banter. There is a moderate kiss (with intention for more), but that's all.
This is not a Christian novel (and thus I'm not reviewing it as a Christian novel), but there is one reference that stood out to me. There was a very slight reference to God, but it comes across as a "you're going to get what's coming to you when you die" and not a message of hope or redemption. This is the quote (shortened for length and spoilers): "You know, there are some beliefs people once had. After death, a person is required to answer to a higher power. [...] It's called reckoning. I like it. I believe it. [...] you'll spend the afterlife answering for what you did [...] and what you're doing now. Justice might not be served in this life, but it will be served in the next.") I can't tell if this person actually believes in God or if they're just throwing this in another character's face.
Overall Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book as a whole! It's a solid debut from O. McCarthy, and I look forward to seeing the next book in the series!! I recommend this book to teen readers of dystopian if you want a fun adventure with quite a few twists!
Note: I received this ARC from the author and all opinions expressed are my own!
Story: 4/5
Worldview: 4/5
Story: The action begins from Chapter 1 with a sudden twist, which was a great hook and premise for the rest of the novel. I loved seeing Reach's relationship with his mom; she really came across like such a determined, honorable mother. As the story progressed, I loved meeting other characters, like Dr. Jog, Dr. Geo, Lift, and Llama. Since the novel talked so much about game theory, I really wasn't sure who to trust at every turn! Some of these moments really reminded me of the Hunger Games, too. My only note with story is that early chapters tended to explain a lot of information at once, so the pacing slowed down a bit, but it picked right back up again at the right time. :)
Worldview: The main message of the novel seems to be rooted in trust, loyalty, and standing up for what's right no matter what it costs you. I loved Reach as an underdog kind of character, disadvantaged in almost every situation but also clever enough to figure it out. Reach and Llama are the main love interests, and they were really cute with their banter. There is a moderate kiss (with intention for more), but that's all.
This is not a Christian novel (and thus I'm not reviewing it as a Christian novel), but there is one reference that stood out to me. There was a very slight reference to God, but it comes across as a "you're going to get what's coming to you when you die" and not a message of hope or redemption. This is the quote (shortened for length and spoilers): "You know, there are some beliefs people once had. After death, a person is required to answer to a higher power. [...] It's called reckoning. I like it. I believe it. [...] you'll spend the afterlife answering for what you did [...] and what you're doing now. Justice might not be served in this life, but it will be served in the next.") I can't tell if this person actually believes in God or if they're just throwing this in another character's face.
Overall Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book as a whole! It's a solid debut from O. McCarthy, and I look forward to seeing the next book in the series!! I recommend this book to teen readers of dystopian if you want a fun adventure with quite a few twists!
Note: I received this ARC from the author and all opinions expressed are my own!
October 31, 2024
This dystopian novel by Olivia McCarthy is gripping, heart-wrenching, and filled with hope!
The story revolves around Reach, a young man who has grown up in a totalitarian country known as Nation. When he's fourteen, officials from the government arrive at his house, and everything suddenly changes. His mother reveals to him that the government is unjust, that his father is a member of a resistance group on Mars, and that he has been prepared--all his life--to help take down Nation.
Still reeling from the news, Reach goes to his new training center, a place called the Hub. It's a whole new world, and much as Reach wants to implement the "game theory" his mother talked about to take down the dystopian government, he has no idea what's going on most of the time. But people slowly emerge that he begins to trust--Dr. Jog, a man Reach's mom had called an ally; Llama, the girl assigned to work most closely with him; Hero and Freedom, a young couple kept apart by unjust laws--and Reach begins to feel that he isn't quite so alone in his mission.
But Nation is terrifying in its power and surveillance. Especially the women in charge, who will sentence people to death without batting an eye. With so few resistance members against the rulers of Nation, how is their little band supposed to do anything? And do they have traitors in their midst?
This book kept me captivated from beginning to end! Reach was a compelling protagonist, and I loved watching his friendship and the beginnings of a romance with Llama. The side characters were terrific, and the descriptions were vivid. The worldbuilding was so good--every element of the dystopian society was carefully thought-out, and many elements bore chilling resemblance to social problems nowadays. I can't wait for the second book to continue Reach's story!
The story revolves around Reach, a young man who has grown up in a totalitarian country known as Nation. When he's fourteen, officials from the government arrive at his house, and everything suddenly changes. His mother reveals to him that the government is unjust, that his father is a member of a resistance group on Mars, and that he has been prepared--all his life--to help take down Nation.
Still reeling from the news, Reach goes to his new training center, a place called the Hub. It's a whole new world, and much as Reach wants to implement the "game theory" his mother talked about to take down the dystopian government, he has no idea what's going on most of the time. But people slowly emerge that he begins to trust--Dr. Jog, a man Reach's mom had called an ally; Llama, the girl assigned to work most closely with him; Hero and Freedom, a young couple kept apart by unjust laws--and Reach begins to feel that he isn't quite so alone in his mission.
But Nation is terrifying in its power and surveillance. Especially the women in charge, who will sentence people to death without batting an eye. With so few resistance members against the rulers of Nation, how is their little band supposed to do anything? And do they have traitors in their midst?
This book kept me captivated from beginning to end! Reach was a compelling protagonist, and I loved watching his friendship and the beginnings of a romance with Llama. The side characters were terrific, and the descriptions were vivid. The worldbuilding was so good--every element of the dystopian society was carefully thought-out, and many elements bore chilling resemblance to social problems nowadays. I can't wait for the second book to continue Reach's story!
August 9, 2025
This is a solid debut. I enjoyed the characters and following their growth through this strange society. As far as dystopian books go, this fits in well with the genre. It has enough new twists to be fresh, but enough expected twists to be the familiar experience many dystopian lovers want.
November 3, 2024
REACH felt like the best of the 2010s YA dystopians, except to me it was even better! The worldbuilding is so immersive, the plot so intense, and I need the next book now! As a liberal arts grad, I especially loved how philosophy and history were emphasised as important to bringing down a totalitarian government. REACH was already set to be one of my favourite dystopian novels ever, and that put it over the edge. This book is amazing and highly worth a read!
October 14, 2024
This was such an enjoyable book to read! I often drag through the middle section of a lot books, but that was not the case with this one! This book had my attention from the very beginning all the way until the end. I cannot wait to see how this story continues to unfold in future books! I highly recommend for anyone who loves corrupt futuristic societies, a bit of clean romance, and space travel as much as I do!
October 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this debut from author O McCarthy. The worldbuilding was well thought out and, unlike many sci-fi novels that show a dystopian world and just ask the reader to accept it, this one actually explains how it came to be, which is refreshing. I also loved the character names. The author seems to have meshed today’s Hollywood trend for weird names with the values and culture of the novel’s world, and came up with names that were original and very fitting to this story. The pacing was good with the information being revealed to the reader in twists and turns at a rate that keeps the reader engaged.
October 25, 2024
I was super excited to read Reach as an eARC! I love dystopian society books, and this one did not disappoint. It took me a little while to grasp what was happening at the beginning, as the groundwork for the story and world was being laid out, but I flew through the second half, needing to know what happened next. I’m really excited to read the next book in the series!
October 31, 2024
I loved this! I've been in a fantasy slump and needed something different, and dystopian/sci-fi is one of my favorite genres, and this really hit the spot! When I finally had time to sit down and read it, I flew through it, which says a lot, because lately I've been dragging my feet while reading. This helped pull me out of my slump, and I really enjoyed the world and the characters!
It's also difficult to find clean romance, but this has a subplot with it, which was refreshing! Not the main focus.
The plot twists had me on my toes, and I'm actually a sucker for a good cliffhanger! I love that feeling of being like "what?! I need the next book immediately!" So I'll be waiting for that 😂
This was such a fun read for me and an amazing story to break out of fantasy for a bit!
It's also difficult to find clean romance, but this has a subplot with it, which was refreshing! Not the main focus.
The plot twists had me on my toes, and I'm actually a sucker for a good cliffhanger! I love that feeling of being like "what?! I need the next book immediately!" So I'll be waiting for that 😂
This was such a fun read for me and an amazing story to break out of fantasy for a bit!
November 3, 2024
Reach was such an entertaining and heart wrenching read! This was an amazing story filled with futuristic technology, betrayal, government secrets and sweet forbidden romance! There is great world building and I loved all the characters! I highly recommend this YA Sci-Fi novel
If you love:
🔹YA Dystopian/Sci-Fi
🔹Forbidden Romance
🔹Futuristic Technology
🔹Closed Door Romance
If you love:
🔹YA Dystopian/Sci-Fi
🔹Forbidden Romance
🔹Futuristic Technology
🔹Closed Door Romance
April 2, 2025
4.75 🌟
Thanku so much to Olivia for the ARC. All are my own thoughts ♡
I can't believe this is her debut novel!! She has such a way with words and makes each sentence so meaningful. It def would have been 5 stars but when I started the book I was already on the verge of a bookslump (not the books fault. Just me) so i wasnt in that right mind for a scientific deep book but now happy to say, I've finished the book and I'm out of that slump! Man I got chills at that ending and tears in my eyes🥹 literally can't wait to see where Olivia goes from here and what happens with the characters. It's very scientific,honestly alot of words I didn't understand, u do need to focus on and not rush thru. Also the little splash of clean forbiden romance sprinkled in was perfect!💕
There is conspiracies, high stakes, slow burn friends to more, game theory, betrayal, science, and so much more. I really loved it and so sad when I finished it. can't wait for everyone to read it! ⭐️🩵
Thanku again for the ARC 📚⭐️
Future Edit: this is definitely a full 5 stars, I think about this book at least 7 days a week
Thanku so much to Olivia for the ARC. All are my own thoughts ♡
I can't believe this is her debut novel!! She has such a way with words and makes each sentence so meaningful. It def would have been 5 stars but when I started the book I was already on the verge of a bookslump (not the books fault. Just me) so i wasnt in that right mind for a scientific deep book but now happy to say, I've finished the book and I'm out of that slump! Man I got chills at that ending and tears in my eyes🥹 literally can't wait to see where Olivia goes from here and what happens with the characters. It's very scientific,honestly alot of words I didn't understand, u do need to focus on and not rush thru. Also the little splash of clean forbiden romance sprinkled in was perfect!💕
There is conspiracies, high stakes, slow burn friends to more, game theory, betrayal, science, and so much more. I really loved it and so sad when I finished it. can't wait for everyone to read it! ⭐️🩵
Thanku again for the ARC 📚⭐️
Future Edit: this is definitely a full 5 stars, I think about this book at least 7 days a week
November 12, 2024
YA Sci-Fi novel. I love that I can share this book with my pre-teen! Good literature with breadcrumbs that have your wheels spinning! Even though there is romance there aren't any spicy scenes. And honestly the romance teaches young readers the importance of guarding your heart. There is no language or topics that flirt the line of inappropriate for younger readers. That was refreshing!
I loved the thought and attention that was put into the world building and the government structuring. The power dynamic is unique and I honestly hadn't caught onto the government authority peculiarity until it was blatantly shared in a later chapter.
I sensed an odd tension that had alarm bells wailing for me... something was off and if you pay attention to the breadcrumbs you'll see it too. Even though I was sad, I was excited that my cracks theory was right. NO Spoilers here though!
It was giving The Giver meets The 100 (while they're still in space). Honestly at first I thought maybe this book wasn't for me. But the more I read, the more I could feel the story line pulling me in. I'm glad I kept reading! The names of people and places felt so sterile at first. But then I really realized how much it lends to the governments control and uniformity. I do appreciate that this place is supposed to feel efficient, sterile and with a huge lack of emotion because it's looked down on. At first it made it very hard to connect with the charcters. I immediatelydelt how odd it was and pitied this poor kids for the world he grew up in. I pitied his naive worldview. Once you get to chapter 16 that starts to change. We get to see emotional sides of the characters and see deeper development happening! Llama was a breath of fresh air in a group of people I literally wanted to strangle some spunk into!
I love how observant and self-aware Reach is. It shows how well his mom taught him game theory and observing an opponent.
There is an odd tension between characters that send alarm bells warning that something is off. The breadcrumbs may have you screaming I knew it! When you stumble on a powrful twist.
The pace really picks up and the ending chapters will have your head spinning, wondering who to trust!
Favorite Quotes
"I've been a good servant for all these years, but actually, I'm just a good liar."
"I know enough about death to know it's not
worth fearing."
My only gripe with the books was that the writing feels juvenile, BUT when you realize that it was written over a larger spance of time and the author was maturing alongside her book it gives you a different perspective. Almost picturing it as if the MMC was growing up through the story and that's where the maturation comes from.
I do wish that there was more originality in some of the names. BUT I also understood how the naming system lends to the sterile environment you're supposed to feel.
I was so thankful to receive this eARC and can't wait to see it in print!
I loved the thought and attention that was put into the world building and the government structuring. The power dynamic is unique and I honestly hadn't caught onto the government authority peculiarity until it was blatantly shared in a later chapter.
I sensed an odd tension that had alarm bells wailing for me... something was off and if you pay attention to the breadcrumbs you'll see it too. Even though I was sad, I was excited that my cracks theory was right. NO Spoilers here though!
It was giving The Giver meets The 100 (while they're still in space). Honestly at first I thought maybe this book wasn't for me. But the more I read, the more I could feel the story line pulling me in. I'm glad I kept reading! The names of people and places felt so sterile at first. But then I really realized how much it lends to the governments control and uniformity. I do appreciate that this place is supposed to feel efficient, sterile and with a huge lack of emotion because it's looked down on. At first it made it very hard to connect with the charcters. I immediatelydelt how odd it was and pitied this poor kids for the world he grew up in. I pitied his naive worldview. Once you get to chapter 16 that starts to change. We get to see emotional sides of the characters and see deeper development happening! Llama was a breath of fresh air in a group of people I literally wanted to strangle some spunk into!
I love how observant and self-aware Reach is. It shows how well his mom taught him game theory and observing an opponent.
There is an odd tension between characters that send alarm bells warning that something is off. The breadcrumbs may have you screaming I knew it! When you stumble on a powrful twist.
The pace really picks up and the ending chapters will have your head spinning, wondering who to trust!
Favorite Quotes
"I've been a good servant for all these years, but actually, I'm just a good liar."
"I know enough about death to know it's not
worth fearing."
My only gripe with the books was that the writing feels juvenile, BUT when you realize that it was written over a larger spance of time and the author was maturing alongside her book it gives you a different perspective. Almost picturing it as if the MMC was growing up through the story and that's where the maturation comes from.
I do wish that there was more originality in some of the names. BUT I also understood how the naming system lends to the sterile environment you're supposed to feel.
I was so thankful to receive this eARC and can't wait to see it in print!
October 28, 2024
This book was excellent! The characters, the plot, the world building, the word building... did I mention the world building? Seriously, though, the world building is the crown jewel of this book. McCarthy creates one of the most unique governments ever. It's completely centered around science, without even a trace of religion... in other words, it's the type of government that most authors can't pull off. McCarthy executed it perfectly.
For age range, I would say ages 12-16. It's not a very complicated book, and as the main character was sheltered most of his early life, he thinks more like a 10 year old than a 14 year old at the beginning, and by the end of the book he thinks more like a 14 year old (though he's much older than that at that point).
Plot twists. That's the one negative aspect to this book; all of the plot twists are highly predictable. However, the gorgeous world build keeps this from being an issue.
Spice. This book was a breath of fresh air compared to most YA books nowadays. I'm so glad McCarthy chose to keep this book clean; the most that happens is a kiss. I wish all YA authors wrote like that.
In conclusion, this book was wonderful! I will be recommending it to my friends. Children and adults alike can benefit from it!
For age range, I would say ages 12-16. It's not a very complicated book, and as the main character was sheltered most of his early life, he thinks more like a 10 year old than a 14 year old at the beginning, and by the end of the book he thinks more like a 14 year old (though he's much older than that at that point).
Plot twists. That's the one negative aspect to this book; all of the plot twists are highly predictable. However, the gorgeous world build keeps this from being an issue.
Spice. This book was a breath of fresh air compared to most YA books nowadays. I'm so glad McCarthy chose to keep this book clean; the most that happens is a kiss. I wish all YA authors wrote like that.
In conclusion, this book was wonderful! I will be recommending it to my friends. Children and adults alike can benefit from it!
March 29, 2025
Dystopian must read
Reach and his mother live on Compound where she works as a famous scientist, a hero, returned from a space mission. A hero with a secret. Reach attends school and studied by Dr. Jog. Nation gives them all a strictly regimented weekly schedule. That schedule is interrupted when Enforce & Second arrive to collect Reach to take him to The Hub. This is how he learns his mother’s secret.
Once at The Hub he meets Llama, Hero, Freedom, Lift and Dr. Geo. Each play a role in the game aimed at bringing down Leader and their way of government. This is the long game. Will they survive? Especially when those sent into space don’t always come back?
I enjoy the concept of game theory being used in the way the speak and act. I find it both unique and interesting! I appreciate the romantic feelings between Reach and Llams that they can’t act on. I find the friendships formed and the heartbreaks all very real. I also like that not everything is black and white. These are flawed characters doing the best they can even when they don’t know what that is. I can’t wait to read the next book! Thank you for having this on #KindleUnlimited
Reach and his mother live on Compound where she works as a famous scientist, a hero, returned from a space mission. A hero with a secret. Reach attends school and studied by Dr. Jog. Nation gives them all a strictly regimented weekly schedule. That schedule is interrupted when Enforce & Second arrive to collect Reach to take him to The Hub. This is how he learns his mother’s secret.
Once at The Hub he meets Llama, Hero, Freedom, Lift and Dr. Geo. Each play a role in the game aimed at bringing down Leader and their way of government. This is the long game. Will they survive? Especially when those sent into space don’t always come back?
I enjoy the concept of game theory being used in the way the speak and act. I find it both unique and interesting! I appreciate the romantic feelings between Reach and Llams that they can’t act on. I find the friendships formed and the heartbreaks all very real. I also like that not everything is black and white. These are flawed characters doing the best they can even when they don’t know what that is. I can’t wait to read the next book! Thank you for having this on #KindleUnlimited
October 14, 2024
Reach, the debut novel of the For The Stars Series, is an entertaining coming-of-age tale where growth comes from understanding the power dynamics of life. Author Olivia McCarthy promises to deliver a novel filled with nefarious government secrets, game theory, betrayal, futuristic technology, space, and a no-spice forbidden romance with a swoony first kiss. And she delivers on all accounts! Though she could've amped the lead-up to the first kiss scene without breaking the no-spice guarantee, she does capture the insecurities of a first crush.
Reach is an age-appropriate novel for the YA age range (12-18). Young readers can learn valuable lessons about working within a system without stepping outside socially acceptable norms and the importance of seeking truth and understanding before passing judgments. Older readers may find Reach's journey, as the protagonist describes early in the novel, as a path that is "blurred in the way that dusk and sunset don't have clear parameters but slowly bleed into one another until darkness falls." In other words, you'll have to wait until the end for the big reveal that will leave you wanting more! All will enjoy the beautiful, poetic moments woven throughout the novel.
I'll be watching for book two!
***All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I was not required to leave a positive review.***
Reach is an age-appropriate novel for the YA age range (12-18). Young readers can learn valuable lessons about working within a system without stepping outside socially acceptable norms and the importance of seeking truth and understanding before passing judgments. Older readers may find Reach's journey, as the protagonist describes early in the novel, as a path that is "blurred in the way that dusk and sunset don't have clear parameters but slowly bleed into one another until darkness falls." In other words, you'll have to wait until the end for the big reveal that will leave you wanting more! All will enjoy the beautiful, poetic moments woven throughout the novel.
I'll be watching for book two!
***All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I was not required to leave a positive review.***
November 2, 2024
O. McCarthy's delightful debut pairs a chilling dystopian society with a heart-felt hero, inventive worldbuilding, and a colorful group of allies, villains, and government spies. The title character Reach uses his intense training and love of game theory to fight back against the corruption and lies of Nation. What I liked best about this futuristic page-turner was Reach's empathy, thirst for justice, and loyalty to his family--three traits deemed dangerous and undesirable by his efficient, sterile society. A thought-provoking, epic adventure that kept me reading late into the night!
Perfect for young teen readers, 12 and up!
Perfect for young teen readers, 12 and up!
March 18, 2025
It was a great read that kept me guessing.
From the very first word, I was hooked. It was a great story that was complex and intriguing. Never knowing who to trust... that was a hard situation for Reach.
From the very first word, I was hooked. It was a great story that was complex and intriguing. Never knowing who to trust... that was a hard situation for Reach.
November 10, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. INCREDIBLE ending, intriguing plot, sweet romance, and clean enough that I can pass it on to my kids. Don't miss this one!!
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July 21, 2025This book took over a decade to write, from inception to publication. Thank you so much for coming along on the journey!
December 31, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
I found out about this book through a writing community I'm a part of, and I was intrigued enough by the premise that when the opportunity to read an ARC came up, I knew I had to jump on it. I really liked the ideas the world-building in the book tackled, particularly with regard to science and utilitarianism. It was nice to see characters try to fight back against the narrative that people need to be useful to be worth living. I also loved how chess and game theory was tied in...though I hope that it's expanded on more with references to other ideas within those topics in future books to make it more cohesive than just mere mentions of the terms.
Something that I do wish was that this book had been a bit more polished: The beginning of the book felt like we were learning a lot in a short amount of time. The info was indeed important, but because it felt front-loaded, it felt a bit info-dumpy. My other issue was that I had a hard time getting a sense for the time passing in the middle of the book...at times, it felt slow, but then I would find out that months had actually passed rather than days.
In all, I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this, and I'm intrigued to see where this goes from here and hope that book 2 is stronger!
Note: I received an ARC from the author, and all opinions expressed are my own.
I found out about this book through a writing community I'm a part of, and I was intrigued enough by the premise that when the opportunity to read an ARC came up, I knew I had to jump on it. I really liked the ideas the world-building in the book tackled, particularly with regard to science and utilitarianism. It was nice to see characters try to fight back against the narrative that people need to be useful to be worth living. I also loved how chess and game theory was tied in...though I hope that it's expanded on more with references to other ideas within those topics in future books to make it more cohesive than just mere mentions of the terms.
Something that I do wish was that this book had been a bit more polished: The beginning of the book felt like we were learning a lot in a short amount of time. The info was indeed important, but because it felt front-loaded, it felt a bit info-dumpy. My other issue was that I had a hard time getting a sense for the time passing in the middle of the book...at times, it felt slow, but then I would find out that months had actually passed rather than days.
In all, I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this, and I'm intrigued to see where this goes from here and hope that book 2 is stronger!
Note: I received an ARC from the author, and all opinions expressed are my own.
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