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From Grey
Every thing and every person has its place and purpose in Society. This is a truth that all Attisians know, ever since the founding of their settlement on the Outpost planet of Attis many megas ago.
Minty Bradford 8 has never doubted her place and purpose in the world. As an 8 - a direct descendant of the first settlers - Minty has a responsibility to one day take her place in the Advocacy and legistlate the laws that govern her planet, even if all she wants is to quietly run the Farm her parents left to her.
But the bounds of Minty's solitary life are shattered when she becomes entangled with an Earthen girl and her fugitive brother, and Minty begins to question the truths she once knew as irrefutable.
As Minty shelters the Earthens against the laws which she swore to uphold, she must ask how far is she willing to go? And what will she choose to do with the life she has inherited?
Is Minty willing to risk everything she's ever known in order to save two Earthens?
LEGEND meets RED RISING in this historically-inspired adventure of compassion, self-discover, and sacrifice.
Minty Bradford 8 has never doubted her place and purpose in the world. As an 8 - a direct descendant of the first settlers - Minty has a responsibility to one day take her place in the Advocacy and legistlate the laws that govern her planet, even if all she wants is to quietly run the Farm her parents left to her.
But the bounds of Minty's solitary life are shattered when she becomes entangled with an Earthen girl and her fugitive brother, and Minty begins to question the truths she once knew as irrefutable.
As Minty shelters the Earthens against the laws which she swore to uphold, she must ask how far is she willing to go? And what will she choose to do with the life she has inherited?
Is Minty willing to risk everything she's ever known in order to save two Earthens?
LEGEND meets RED RISING in this historically-inspired adventure of compassion, self-discover, and sacrifice.
363 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
About the author
Lisa Arcona
1 book3 followersLisa is a graphic design practitioner and professor in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she has immersed herself in the local histories of the Underground Railroad. Because of a life-long obsession with both science fiction and Harriet Tubman, FROM GREY was somewhat of an inevitability.
When not designing, writing, or researching, Lisa might be found with her husband and two kids, traveling, hiking, or planning theme parties.
When not designing, writing, or researching, Lisa might be found with her husband and two kids, traveling, hiking, or planning theme parties.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 6, 2025
Everything and every person has its place and purpose in Society. Grief has made Minty Bradford 8 question her place. But an unexpected turn of events thrusts her into a world within her own she didn’t even know existed, and now with eyes open she can’t ignore the truth. Will she choose well and do something or turn her back on everything?
This novel blends the world of science fiction and fantasy to bring a unique YA dystopian beginning to a deep series.
I loved the main character and the found family that forms throughout this novel. The transformation and development was everything! Literally it’s the books focus and I loved that because we truly see multiple characters coming into their own view of who they are and what they believe in, and that’s just so powerful! The ending left me excited and kind of crushed in a heartbroken way but there is so much hope left that makes it soo worth it!
I think this is the perfect YA read, with no language, no spice, and no worries, so if you need something for your teens it’s a great book. It has so much depth of plot and character development it really sucks you in to relate to the characters. And the beginning of feelings blooming maybe was so adorably well done! I would definitely recommend this book to fans of a blend of fantasy and sci fi who also enjoy the YA side of things.
This novel blends the world of science fiction and fantasy to bring a unique YA dystopian beginning to a deep series.
I loved the main character and the found family that forms throughout this novel. The transformation and development was everything! Literally it’s the books focus and I loved that because we truly see multiple characters coming into their own view of who they are and what they believe in, and that’s just so powerful! The ending left me excited and kind of crushed in a heartbroken way but there is so much hope left that makes it soo worth it!
I think this is the perfect YA read, with no language, no spice, and no worries, so if you need something for your teens it’s a great book. It has so much depth of plot and character development it really sucks you in to relate to the characters. And the beginning of feelings blooming maybe was so adorably well done! I would definitely recommend this book to fans of a blend of fantasy and sci fi who also enjoy the YA side of things.
January 30, 2025
I came across From Grey at the exact right moment in time. A dystopian sci-fi set in Earth's distant future where Earth has been on a steady decline, while Lunars and Outposters are thriving and growing their societies so much in fact that the people of Earth are bonded to labor for those from the Outposts who have the status and money to afford them. The higher a generation, the bigger a deal you are.
Our main character, Minty Bradford 8, descends from the dirst generation of settlers on Attis. But she's a bit different than the rest. Half Lunar, half Outposter, she never quit fit in with polite society. After her parents' death, we see just how much one oddball, with the help of a very unique crew, can change the course of innumerable lives. How choosing well in the hardest moments can save more than just ourselves.
Highly recommend this historically inspired adventure of compassion, self-discovery, and sacrifice to anyone who needs a little hope right now.
Our main character, Minty Bradford 8, descends from the dirst generation of settlers on Attis. But she's a bit different than the rest. Half Lunar, half Outposter, she never quit fit in with polite society. After her parents' death, we see just how much one oddball, with the help of a very unique crew, can change the course of innumerable lives. How choosing well in the hardest moments can save more than just ourselves.
Highly recommend this historically inspired adventure of compassion, self-discovery, and sacrifice to anyone who needs a little hope right now.
January 31, 2025
From Grey is a YA dystopian sci-fi adventure read. Our FMC is named Minty, she is a citizen in her world upholding all laws and never asking questions in the beginning. But then as our story unfolds she asks all kinds of questions and about everything! The author writes an engaging story recement of Six of Crows, which is a book series that I love. The story is told in first person POV and Minty is a fantastic character with ability to make the reader root for her and read everything about her! I loved the way the author describes Arcona and also their planet Attis. The author takes the readers through a very social and well written set of characters and the world is amazing! And I love what Minty's mother tells her, that is a very true and realistic statement!
January 27, 2025
"From Grey by Lisa Arcona is an absolute gem of YA sci-fi dystopian fiction! This book is the perfect blend of gripping action, complex world-building, and emotional depth. From the very first page, the intricate and thought-provoking society of Attis draws you in, immersing you in a dystopian world with a rigid class system and deeply ingrained traditions.
Minty Bradford 8, the protagonist, is an incredibly compelling character. Her journey from a dutiful citizen upholding the laws of her society to questioning everything she’s ever known is beautifully written and relatable. The inclusion of the Earthen fugitives adds another layer of tension and complexity, forcing Minty to confront her own values and beliefs in ways that are both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
What truly stands out is the found family aspect of the story. The relationships between the characters, particularly Minty and the Earthens, are heartfelt and genuine. Lisa Arcona masterfully shows how bonds of friendship and compassion can change everything, even in the most rigid and unforgiving societies.
If you're a fan of books like Red Rising, Legend, or Six of Crows, you'll find so much to love in From Grey. The world-building is intricate without being overwhelming, the political intrigue is layered and fascinating, and the pacing keeps you on the edge of your seat. This book is an unputdownable adventure that tackles important themes like justice, sacrifice, and self-discovery. I can't recommend it enough—it's one of the best YA sci-fi novels I've read in a long time!"
Minty Bradford 8, the protagonist, is an incredibly compelling character. Her journey from a dutiful citizen upholding the laws of her society to questioning everything she’s ever known is beautifully written and relatable. The inclusion of the Earthen fugitives adds another layer of tension and complexity, forcing Minty to confront her own values and beliefs in ways that are both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
What truly stands out is the found family aspect of the story. The relationships between the characters, particularly Minty and the Earthens, are heartfelt and genuine. Lisa Arcona masterfully shows how bonds of friendship and compassion can change everything, even in the most rigid and unforgiving societies.
If you're a fan of books like Red Rising, Legend, or Six of Crows, you'll find so much to love in From Grey. The world-building is intricate without being overwhelming, the political intrigue is layered and fascinating, and the pacing keeps you on the edge of your seat. This book is an unputdownable adventure that tackles important themes like justice, sacrifice, and self-discovery. I can't recommend it enough—it's one of the best YA sci-fi novels I've read in a long time!"
January 29, 2025
This story is really engaging, the plot flows really really well and in my opinion, this book is simply really good scifi. At certain points, it’s reminiscent of The Giver, Uglies, and Divergent in the YA dystopian sense, and then the science fiction aspect welcomes some light Star Wars vibes, but I can clearly see and really appreciate the Underground Railroad inspiration. This book wraps up its story perfectly, but it is definitely the beginning of a larger story and in so excited for the next part!
January 31, 2025
Very engaging read!
I loved watching these characters grow and can't wait to see what they do next in book two! Wonderful world creation and excellent writing that was so easy to read.
I loved watching these characters grow and can't wait to see what they do next in book two! Wonderful world creation and excellent writing that was so easy to read.
January 1, 2025
A Must-Read for Sci-Fi Fans and Newcomers Alike!
This book came highly recommended by a friend, and as someone who doesn't usually read sci-fi, I’m so glad I gave it a chance!
The story reminded me at times of The Hunger Games, with its first-person perspective and a protagonist who draws you in completely. Arcona has crafted a world that feels both familiar and thought-provoking, offering insights into a future society that eerily reflects patterns from our past.
Everything about this book feels intentional and expertly woven. The standout elements for me were the precise word choice, richly developed characters, vivid imagery, and the impactful lessons that resonate long after reading. Packed with action, the story delivers an incredible journey in less than 300 pages.
I can’t wait to dive into Part 2 of The Outpost War!
This book came highly recommended by a friend, and as someone who doesn't usually read sci-fi, I’m so glad I gave it a chance!
The story reminded me at times of The Hunger Games, with its first-person perspective and a protagonist who draws you in completely. Arcona has crafted a world that feels both familiar and thought-provoking, offering insights into a future society that eerily reflects patterns from our past.
Everything about this book feels intentional and expertly woven. The standout elements for me were the precise word choice, richly developed characters, vivid imagery, and the impactful lessons that resonate long after reading. Packed with action, the story delivers an incredible journey in less than 300 pages.
I can’t wait to dive into Part 2 of The Outpost War!
January 20, 2025
There are so many characters to love in this book! I was rooting for them and was definitely holding my breath more than once during their adventures. Arcona drew me into their life on the planet, Attis, and had me feeing the emotions that come with injustice and the desire for freedom.
January 12, 2025
We were impressed with the future world and culture Arcona created on the planet Attis. We enjoyed the author’s colorful characters and how they drew us into the dynamics of the planet’s social order.
As the story’s adventure progresses, the protagonist often considers her mother’s last words, “Whatever happens, choose well.”
Though about a fictional society, a YA reader, or any reader, can gain perspective on our history and what it means to choose well.
Rob and Maurene Crandall
As the story’s adventure progresses, the protagonist often considers her mother’s last words, “Whatever happens, choose well.”
Though about a fictional society, a YA reader, or any reader, can gain perspective on our history and what it means to choose well.
Rob and Maurene Crandall
November 16, 2025
This is quite an involved story one that took me a while to get into. The future world was initially very strange, and I struggled to visualise it. This new world comes with new objects, people who are half robot, half human and a new vocabulary of sorts. Minty, however, having lost both of her parents two years ago, grew on me very quickly and I was cheering for her within the first 50 or so pages. Minty continues to run the family farm which grows various produce for sale to the local village merchants.
Minty is supported by Linah, a slave of sorts, who was inherited from her parents. Minty finds Linah’s employment situation difficult as she does the ‘slave’ market. Both of their worlds get turned upside down when Linah’s brother, Ves, appears. He has run from his employer and is now in hiding, being chased by the law, for his daring to escape. Such things are illegal in this world. So is harbouring a runaway.
Much of the story involves protecting Ves and enabling him to find a new place to live and work. We meet some wise helpers: The Waymaker, a little woman who is revered for her wisdom, Beecher, a wise guide who people look up to, and Harkless, a man of humour and an admirer of Minty. All three are actively engaged in helping rescue Ves and keep the authorities away.
Meanwhile, Minty is coming of age, having reached her 17th birthday and able to receive her inheritance, which has been managed by her conniving uncle who wants to keep it for himself. Along with the monies comes a position of Advocate and a place on the community leadership circle.
The story’s pace is a little mixed and every so often the story is interrupted by a two-page historical note featuring someone by the name of Hettie, who I am none the wiser as to who they are. After a few of these historical notes, I found them a distraction and didn’t understand what they were trying to tell me.
I enjoyed the characters. They’re well developed, clearly defined and easy to either cheer for or snarl at (the bad guys). However, I wonder if the author tried to bite off more than she can chew in their first story. I feel the themes are a little jumbled and lack clarity and am left wondering what the main takeaway is. Arcona’s story world is unique, perhaps could have done with some greater emphasis to enhance the reader’s visualisation of it, and I enjoyed the little titbits of history such as inclusion of a pager-like device and references to Earth.
I don’t think I enjoyed this sufficiently to want to read the next in the series.
Minty is supported by Linah, a slave of sorts, who was inherited from her parents. Minty finds Linah’s employment situation difficult as she does the ‘slave’ market. Both of their worlds get turned upside down when Linah’s brother, Ves, appears. He has run from his employer and is now in hiding, being chased by the law, for his daring to escape. Such things are illegal in this world. So is harbouring a runaway.
Much of the story involves protecting Ves and enabling him to find a new place to live and work. We meet some wise helpers: The Waymaker, a little woman who is revered for her wisdom, Beecher, a wise guide who people look up to, and Harkless, a man of humour and an admirer of Minty. All three are actively engaged in helping rescue Ves and keep the authorities away.
Meanwhile, Minty is coming of age, having reached her 17th birthday and able to receive her inheritance, which has been managed by her conniving uncle who wants to keep it for himself. Along with the monies comes a position of Advocate and a place on the community leadership circle.
The story’s pace is a little mixed and every so often the story is interrupted by a two-page historical note featuring someone by the name of Hettie, who I am none the wiser as to who they are. After a few of these historical notes, I found them a distraction and didn’t understand what they were trying to tell me.
I enjoyed the characters. They’re well developed, clearly defined and easy to either cheer for or snarl at (the bad guys). However, I wonder if the author tried to bite off more than she can chew in their first story. I feel the themes are a little jumbled and lack clarity and am left wondering what the main takeaway is. Arcona’s story world is unique, perhaps could have done with some greater emphasis to enhance the reader’s visualisation of it, and I enjoyed the little titbits of history such as inclusion of a pager-like device and references to Earth.
I don’t think I enjoyed this sufficiently to want to read the next in the series.
January 29, 2025
🔥 A Dystopian Sci-Fi That Hits Deep 🔥
Red Rising meets Legend—with a twist of its own! Buckle up, because From Grey takes you on a gripping, thought-provoking adventure through the rigid world of Attis, where everyone has a place, a purpose… and zero room for questioning the rules. Until Minty Bradford 8 does just that.
Minty is the perfect rule-follower—until an Earthen girl and her fugitive brother turn her world upside down. Suddenly, she's not just a loyal Attisian—she’s a girl with an impossible choice: follow the laws she’s sworn to uphold or fight for what’s right.
🌎 WHAT TO EXPECT: 🚀 A mind-blowing dystopian world ⚖️ Political intrigue & deep moral questions 💥 High stakes, danger, and rebellion 👊 Strong, complex FMC with a serious dilemma 👩👧👦 Found family & friendships that change everything
This book had me on edge the entire time. The way Lisa Arcona builds the world of Attis is flawless—so real, so layered, so chilling.
And Minty? I LOVED watching her transformation. She goes from believing in her society’s rules to questioning everything—and trust me, you’ll be questioning right alongside her.
Also, shoutout to the Earthens, because their presence shakes things up in the best way. The tension? The emotional depth? The impossible choices?! I WAS STRESSED IN THE BEST WAY.
If you love dystopian books that make you think, feel, and turn pages like your life depends on it, From Grey is a must-read. It’s a fast-paced, thrilling, and deeply emotional ride that will have you hooked from page one.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND for fans of: 📖 The Hunger Games & Red Rising 🚀 Sci-fi with depth & meaning 🔥 Dystopian worlds that feel eerily real 💡 Stories that make you question everything
An absolute must-read for YA sci-fi lovers!
Red Rising meets Legend—with a twist of its own! Buckle up, because From Grey takes you on a gripping, thought-provoking adventure through the rigid world of Attis, where everyone has a place, a purpose… and zero room for questioning the rules. Until Minty Bradford 8 does just that.
Minty is the perfect rule-follower—until an Earthen girl and her fugitive brother turn her world upside down. Suddenly, she's not just a loyal Attisian—she’s a girl with an impossible choice: follow the laws she’s sworn to uphold or fight for what’s right.
🌎 WHAT TO EXPECT: 🚀 A mind-blowing dystopian world ⚖️ Political intrigue & deep moral questions 💥 High stakes, danger, and rebellion 👊 Strong, complex FMC with a serious dilemma 👩👧👦 Found family & friendships that change everything
This book had me on edge the entire time. The way Lisa Arcona builds the world of Attis is flawless—so real, so layered, so chilling.
And Minty? I LOVED watching her transformation. She goes from believing in her society’s rules to questioning everything—and trust me, you’ll be questioning right alongside her.
Also, shoutout to the Earthens, because their presence shakes things up in the best way. The tension? The emotional depth? The impossible choices?! I WAS STRESSED IN THE BEST WAY.
If you love dystopian books that make you think, feel, and turn pages like your life depends on it, From Grey is a must-read. It’s a fast-paced, thrilling, and deeply emotional ride that will have you hooked from page one.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND for fans of: 📖 The Hunger Games & Red Rising 🚀 Sci-fi with depth & meaning 🔥 Dystopian worlds that feel eerily real 💡 Stories that make you question everything
An absolute must-read for YA sci-fi lovers!
April 6, 2025
This one took me a while because it stirred up emotion in me. Things written here are so similar to America past and present that at times, I had to put this one down.
That being said, I love the story.
I love the characters.
I love the growth.
The writing is beautiful.
It's dense at times, but mainly because it just relates so much to what America is going thru right now, but set in a scifi world.
I'm so grateful to the author, #lisaarcona, and #rrbooktours for the gifted copy.
It's truly a stunning book, both in looks and content. ❤️
That being said, I love the story.
I love the characters.
I love the growth.
The writing is beautiful.
It's dense at times, but mainly because it just relates so much to what America is going thru right now, but set in a scifi world.
I'm so grateful to the author, #lisaarcona, and #rrbooktours for the gifted copy.
It's truly a stunning book, both in looks and content. ❤️
August 29, 2025
I just had to put this book down and get a review out there because I wanted to share about it with someone. This world has completely enthralled me and I find myself pausing often to close my eyes and just imagine life on Attis. There is so much depth to this story and it gives such great opportunities for reflection around our own willingness to "choose well" and the role we play whether active or passive in the suffering and oppression of those around us.
May 10, 2025
I read this with my 10 year old son. We both enjoyed it and made connections to life in America in the past and today, sadly. The characters were relatable and the outpost society was interesting. We both desperately want to know who the captain is!!
April 17, 2025
I’m planning to read this with my 12 year old son this summer. The connections and lessons are beautifully written with a story that keeps moving and characters I loved.
May 3, 2025
A very thoughtful retelling of the Underground Railroad and a poignant examination of the privilege we don't even realize we have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Did Not Finish
July 13, 2025DNF: not really my vibe for a read? It was interesting but I don’t think I’ll finish it.
April 1, 2026
As a Black woman, I had a healthy level of skepticism but I was hooked before long and stayed up until 2a reading and started it over to catch what I missed. Can’t wait for the next book!
July 22, 2025
The story, intriguing. The characters, layered. I only wish there was more sometimes. Some of the chapters wanting more detail, more dialogue, more lore. I definitely finished this book and looked up the next in the series. I 100% plan on coming back to this series as more is released.
December 1, 2025
This was charming! I enjoyed it. Great characters. And one good cliffhanger unanswered question to make you anxious to read the next one :)
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews