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Andromache
Some lives are valuable. But none are sacred.
The nation once known as the United States of America has fallen. On the West Coast, five cities collectively known as Cinq battle rampant poverty and disease. On the East Coast, the wealthy, technologically-advanced Federation’s human population is nearly extinct. A treaty between the two nations guarantees Western brides in exchange for Eastern technology.
When Andromache Kanoska is chosen to go East to wed a nobleman and bear his children, her greatest fear is that her infertility will be discovered. Her only chance of protection is to marry the soon-to-be Elector, Denzel Xavier.
While competing in challenges designed to determine if she is worthy to become the next Eastern Consort, Andromache learns a terrible secret. But the people in power are those responsible. And the only person able to make a difference is a man whom she is unsure whether to trust.
Will she risk exposure to protect others whose lives are regarded as expendable? Or will she choose to save herself at any cost?
The nation once known as the United States of America has fallen. On the West Coast, five cities collectively known as Cinq battle rampant poverty and disease. On the East Coast, the wealthy, technologically-advanced Federation’s human population is nearly extinct. A treaty between the two nations guarantees Western brides in exchange for Eastern technology.
When Andromache Kanoska is chosen to go East to wed a nobleman and bear his children, her greatest fear is that her infertility will be discovered. Her only chance of protection is to marry the soon-to-be Elector, Denzel Xavier.
While competing in challenges designed to determine if she is worthy to become the next Eastern Consort, Andromache learns a terrible secret. But the people in power are those responsible. And the only person able to make a difference is a man whom she is unsure whether to trust.
Will she risk exposure to protect others whose lives are regarded as expendable? Or will she choose to save herself at any cost?
- GenresDystopiaScience Fiction
330 pages, Hardcover
Published March 11, 2025
3 people are currently reading
2776 people want to read
About the author
L.E. Richmond
5 books166 followersL.E. Richmond was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest by an American writing teacher and a German bookseller. Her childhood consisted in a large part of imagining stories for her PLAYMOBIL characters and checking out as many books from the library as her family could fit on six library cards. Now she spends her time chasing three little Muggles, reading aloud to the hazel-eyed young man who has her heart, and attempting to transfer the stories in her head into words for others. Her passion is for words and stories that thrill the soul, and she is endlessly amazed by the One who not only used words to bring this world into being but also crafted the most epic story of all time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 3, 2025
4.5 stars.
Wow. It's been awhile since I read Christian dystopian. And this one was intense, probably about as intense as I would be okay with. But it was good. It contained some really important, really Christian themes even though the faith element was on the light side. Full review to come!
Alright, so, to start with: I don't read a lot of dystopian. I generally find it a little too depressing, a little too techy, and a little too non-fantasy like for my taste. But I was intrigued by this one because it's a dystopian retelling of Esther, which sounded intriguing enough for me to pick up an ARC and read dystopian for the first time in awhile.
This book was intense, like I said, and not the easiest ride. But Andromache (though she may say otherwise) is such a tough girl <3 She has more guts than me. The themes were not easy ones, but needed ones: about the sacredness of ALL life. Whether it can give anything for the advancement of society or not. And Andromache fights so hard for that <3 <3
I found it interesting how things had flipped in this dystopian world: women are valued (in a very twisted way) for their ability to have children. So different from now, where women are devalued for it. But either way, in the end, both viewpoints devalue both mother and child, because both viewpoints come from "the betterment of society" aka an individual's worth is based on what they can do for society as a whole. Individuality is despise, not valued.
And Andromache is quite an individual ;) As is Heath! Oh Heath, I loved this spunky kid so much <3 <3 <3 He's sweet and smart and sharp. I just love kids like him in books.
Also, Denzel <3 Yes I like Denzel. The romance between him in and Andromache was tense, fun, and witty as both of them are a little jaded and quick witted. So if you want quick witted romance banter, this book has it. Denzel definitely ended up being a favorite character: he's so not like his *cough* father *cough*
As for plot, things kept moving and never slowed down. There were plenty of twists I didn't see coming and I honestly wasn't sure how things were going to turn out. And that ending-! That was a twist all its own. I didn't see that coming, and for a moment I was wondering if I was going to be left with a unsatisfying ending that left a few loose ends. Like, I wondered if there was going to be a sequel, kind of loose ends. But then something happened- and yeah, I was not left unsatisfied.
Like I said, this book was intense for the themes it contained. Thought kept completely clean, it does deal with infertility and the marriage bed, so therefore I recommend it for ages 16-17+. One of the characters also suffers with an abusive relationship, so there's that. It's probably about as intense as I would want to read, but it never quite crossed the line for me.
For the faith element, that was pretty much it: the theme that every life is precious in God's sight. And that we have no right, nor authority, to take a life because we deem it not worth living. WHICH I LOVE. But the faith element is lighter in this book than in other ones, I kinda wish it was a little stronger.
Overall, I enjoyed this dystopian read and would highly recommend it to anyone who reads dystopian. Or even anyone who doesn't, but is interested in an Esther retelling and plot twists, and themes you don't see as often in even Christian fiction.
Wow. It's been awhile since I read Christian dystopian. And this one was intense, probably about as intense as I would be okay with. But it was good. It contained some really important, really Christian themes even though the faith element was on the light side. Full review to come!
Alright, so, to start with: I don't read a lot of dystopian. I generally find it a little too depressing, a little too techy, and a little too non-fantasy like for my taste. But I was intrigued by this one because it's a dystopian retelling of Esther, which sounded intriguing enough for me to pick up an ARC and read dystopian for the first time in awhile.
This book was intense, like I said, and not the easiest ride. But Andromache (though she may say otherwise) is such a tough girl <3 She has more guts than me. The themes were not easy ones, but needed ones: about the sacredness of ALL life. Whether it can give anything for the advancement of society or not. And Andromache fights so hard for that <3 <3
I found it interesting how things had flipped in this dystopian world: women are valued (in a very twisted way) for their ability to have children. So different from now, where women are devalued for it. But either way, in the end, both viewpoints devalue both mother and child, because both viewpoints come from "the betterment of society" aka an individual's worth is based on what they can do for society as a whole. Individuality is despise, not valued.
And Andromache is quite an individual ;) As is Heath! Oh Heath, I loved this spunky kid so much <3 <3 <3 He's sweet and smart and sharp. I just love kids like him in books.
Also, Denzel <3 Yes I like Denzel. The romance between him in and Andromache was tense, fun, and witty as both of them are a little jaded and quick witted. So if you want quick witted romance banter, this book has it. Denzel definitely ended up being a favorite character: he's so not like his *cough* father *cough*
As for plot, things kept moving and never slowed down. There were plenty of twists I didn't see coming and I honestly wasn't sure how things were going to turn out. And that ending-! That was a twist all its own. I didn't see that coming, and for a moment I was wondering if I was going to be left with a unsatisfying ending that left a few loose ends. Like, I wondered if there was going to be a sequel, kind of loose ends. But then something happened- and yeah, I was not left unsatisfied.
Like I said, this book was intense for the themes it contained. Thought kept completely clean, it does deal with infertility and the marriage bed, so therefore I recommend it for ages 16-17+. One of the characters also suffers with an abusive relationship, so there's that. It's probably about as intense as I would want to read, but it never quite crossed the line for me.
For the faith element, that was pretty much it: the theme that every life is precious in God's sight. And that we have no right, nor authority, to take a life because we deem it not worth living. WHICH I LOVE. But the faith element is lighter in this book than in other ones, I kinda wish it was a little stronger.
Overall, I enjoyed this dystopian read and would highly recommend it to anyone who reads dystopian. Or even anyone who doesn't, but is interested in an Esther retelling and plot twists, and themes you don't see as often in even Christian fiction.
April 23, 2025
I went into this story knowing nothing about it. I've read another book by the author and decided to give it a try. It was definitely different than her other novel. More sci-fi/futuristic than fantasy. I enjoyed it as it gave me Hunger Games vibes.
Andromache is one of five chosen young women to compete to marry the future elector, Denzel as well as 4 other eligible men of high standing. There are several gauntlets they have to complete and earn points to move up in the ranking. As you would imagine, it can be very cutthroat!
Not all of the men who are waiting for a bride are honorable and one in particular makes more than Andromache's life miserable. Denzel on the other hand sees things differently than his father and the other men. Thanks to his mother he's turned out to be a decent man. Unfortunately, Andromache doesn't know if he's decent enough to expose her secret to him. It's a doozy and her becoming his wife hinges on him and the others not finding out.
Poor, dear Andromache tries to do the right things by the other contestants, Denzel, and herself, but it's not easy! It's downright dangerous to be kind to others. Sadly, Andromache learns the hard way a couple of times, but not everyone in the competition is downright cold and hardened!
I did want to stand up and cheer with the stance Andromache took in regards to life and who is deserving of it. It was fabulous to read that taking a life no matter what stage it's in, is wrong! Also, the fact that every woman deserves dignity regardless of their reproductive status: too old to have kids any more, can't bear children, etc.
I didn't quite understand the ending and wondered if there might be a second book, but it doesn't look like it.
I will also mention that this isn't Christian fiction. It's ya/na, but there were a couple of items that would make me say it's more for na than ya.
Andromache is one of five chosen young women to compete to marry the future elector, Denzel as well as 4 other eligible men of high standing. There are several gauntlets they have to complete and earn points to move up in the ranking. As you would imagine, it can be very cutthroat!
Not all of the men who are waiting for a bride are honorable and one in particular makes more than Andromache's life miserable. Denzel on the other hand sees things differently than his father and the other men. Thanks to his mother he's turned out to be a decent man. Unfortunately, Andromache doesn't know if he's decent enough to expose her secret to him. It's a doozy and her becoming his wife hinges on him and the others not finding out.
Poor, dear Andromache tries to do the right things by the other contestants, Denzel, and herself, but it's not easy! It's downright dangerous to be kind to others. Sadly, Andromache learns the hard way a couple of times, but not everyone in the competition is downright cold and hardened!
I did want to stand up and cheer with the stance Andromache took in regards to life and who is deserving of it. It was fabulous to read that taking a life no matter what stage it's in, is wrong! Also, the fact that every woman deserves dignity regardless of their reproductive status: too old to have kids any more, can't bear children, etc.
I didn't quite understand the ending and wondered if there might be a second book, but it doesn't look like it.
I will also mention that this isn't Christian fiction. It's ya/na, but there were a couple of items that would make me say it's more for na than ya.
May 1, 2025
I have mixed feelings. On one hand, I read this in only two sittings, but on the other hand, the ending was terrible! Besides Andi, the main character, I never got to know any of the characters well; they were just...there. The villains were very over the top. The ending was unsatisfying, anticlimactic, confusing, and rushed. Need I say more?
April 23, 2025
"If we are the handiwork of some Cosmic Artist, are we not all worthwhile because we bear His fingerprints?”
That says it all. What a beautiful message and a powerful book!
That says it all. What a beautiful message and a powerful book!
April 11, 2025
The first thing I thought when I read this was, "Oh, it's like the Handmaid's Tale (without the gratuitous gross stuff), but in a city like the Capitol of the Hunger Games (with a little less death)."
And honestly, it's kind of still how I think of this story. But ALSO add a little bit of the cutthroat nature of every cable TV show, and you have something a bit closer. Include a heroine who very much is not thrilled to be there, but still determines to do the right thing by her people, and you've got me completely sold.
If you're wanting a book that blends all these elements, plus a compelling statement on the sanctity of human life (without cramming it in your face), definitely check this one out!
And honestly, it's kind of still how I think of this story. But ALSO add a little bit of the cutthroat nature of every cable TV show, and you have something a bit closer. Include a heroine who very much is not thrilled to be there, but still determines to do the right thing by her people, and you've got me completely sold.
If you're wanting a book that blends all these elements, plus a compelling statement on the sanctity of human life (without cramming it in your face), definitely check this one out!
March 7, 2025
Y'all! I loved this book! I'm a big fan of dystopias, and this is one of the best I've read. It's reminiscent of some of the greats, yet unique in its own way. It's fast-paced, exciting, and impossible to put down.
This is not a light read. It deals with some serious subjects. There were times when it almost made me cry. And yet, it was also so full of hope. It had such a great message. And I know I'll be thinking about it for a long time to come.
This book is full of great characters. I admired Andi's bravery and strength. The fact that she never gave up and was always looking out for others was very inspiring. I also really liked Heath, Bella, and Xavier.
The worldbuilding was excellent. Detailed and immersive yet never overwhelming.
I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to these characters, so the ending felt a little abrupt, but other than that, this was an absolutely stellar read! It was exciting, thought-provoking, impactful, and inspiring. This book would be perfect for fans of The Selection, Hunger Games, and Matched.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
This is not a light read. It deals with some serious subjects. There were times when it almost made me cry. And yet, it was also so full of hope. It had such a great message. And I know I'll be thinking about it for a long time to come.
This book is full of great characters. I admired Andi's bravery and strength. The fact that she never gave up and was always looking out for others was very inspiring. I also really liked Heath, Bella, and Xavier.
The worldbuilding was excellent. Detailed and immersive yet never overwhelming.
I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye to these characters, so the ending felt a little abrupt, but other than that, this was an absolutely stellar read! It was exciting, thought-provoking, impactful, and inspiring. This book would be perfect for fans of The Selection, Hunger Games, and Matched.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
March 26, 2025
I really liked „The Mermaid’s Tale“ by L.E.Richmond, and I liked its sequel even better. But I love „Andromache“. For so many reasons: As in her other two books the story is gripping and fast moving. The characters are portrayed in a manner that is touching and relatable. I enjoyed the sweetness of the love story. The author does not magically resolve all the problems besetting the protagonists, and I do appreciate that she avoids platitudes and predictable endings. Although some facets of the ending could be expected, others did take me completely by surprise. As in her other works L.E.Richmond shows us love in many facets - between aunt and niece, between friends, between parents and children. The book deals with fear, broken dreams, betrayal, bitterness, abuse, kindness, and sacrifice. But above all it is an ode to the intrinsic value of human life, created in the image of God.
February 14, 2025
I absolutely loved everything about this book! I love dystopian novels, and this one lands among the best of them! The characters are relatable, and the world building is immersive. I was hooked from the first pages by this compelling and romantic story that really emphasizes the value of human life and some of the hardest challenges of our human condition.
I received an eARC of this book to review.
I received an eARC of this book to review.
September 19, 2025
Dystopian is generally not one of my preferred genres, but the premise of this one combined with reviews I saw intrigued me...and I ended up enjoying it a lot!
It's an Esther retelling set in a futuristic dystopian society, with light faith elements, and heavy pro-life elements. I loved the many parts of the book that talked about the value of all human life, as this is such an important topic always, but especially right now!
I grew to really like the main characters in this book, and how they stood up for what was right no matter the cost. I didn't think I'd like the romance at first, but I ended up really liking that as well.
One of my only complaints would be that I felt the ending was a little bit rushed and confusing. Overall though, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Thank you to the author and the Quill and Flame Ink Team for the ebook. All opinions are voluntary and my own. 😊
Content: kisses only romance, non-graphic violence, injuries, mentions of murder/death, mentions of infidelity, a man attacks (only kissing is seen on page) and abuses a woman (not detailed, only implied), an unmarried woman becomes pregnant by unnatural means, talk of periods/infertility/child bearing
It's an Esther retelling set in a futuristic dystopian society, with light faith elements, and heavy pro-life elements. I loved the many parts of the book that talked about the value of all human life, as this is such an important topic always, but especially right now!
I grew to really like the main characters in this book, and how they stood up for what was right no matter the cost. I didn't think I'd like the romance at first, but I ended up really liking that as well.
One of my only complaints would be that I felt the ending was a little bit rushed and confusing. Overall though, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Thank you to the author and the Quill and Flame Ink Team for the ebook. All opinions are voluntary and my own. 😊
Content: kisses only romance, non-graphic violence, injuries, mentions of murder/death, mentions of infidelity, a man attacks (only kissing is seen on page) and abuses a woman (not detailed, only implied), an unmarried woman becomes pregnant by unnatural means, talk of periods/infertility/child bearing
May 4, 2025
I'm in tears. Full review to come. 😭
May 28, 2025
Rating: 7/10
This was such a great book with a great message!! The ending wasn’t what I was hoping for, but was still satisfying.
This was such a great book with a great message!! The ending wasn’t what I was hoping for, but was still satisfying.
July 9, 2025
A poignant story about the value of all human life. It was so complex that I really wouldn’t have complained if it was longer to really enrich the world building and characters.
March 25, 2025
Andromache reminded me of all the best parts of my dystopian favorites: the world of Legend, the romance of The Selection, the training of The Hunger Games. The story is based on Esther, but the topics Richmond elects to highlight are perhaps not what one might initially expect; they bring fresh levels of tension, drama, and darkness to the ancient Biblical story. I was hooked from the beginning and absolutely tore through the last third, though when I sat down with the book, I only planned to read a few chapters. A genuine page turner, complete with an unexpected yet satisfying ending.
May 9, 2025
I am at a loss for words. This dystopian story is not a light read by any means, but it addresses so many important issues that have begun to spring up in our culture. The sanctity of ALL lives. The knowledge that you are not useless because of your health or things out of your control. The worth that can be found in Christ.
I adored the book with every fiber of my being. Andi and Xavier, Heath and Bella and all the others formed an unforgettable cast of characters. Even though their story is over, I’ll be thinking about it for a very long time to come. I loved that, like the book of Esther, though God is not mentioned once, He was present in every single moment of this book. A must read for fans of gritty dystopian novels!
One of my favorite quotes:
“Every life is precious. And if we say otherwise, we are using the exact same logic as the people who believe that you and I don’t deserve the air we breathe.”
Thank you to L.E. Richmond and Quill and Flame publishers for gifting me an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I adored the book with every fiber of my being. Andi and Xavier, Heath and Bella and all the others formed an unforgettable cast of characters. Even though their story is over, I’ll be thinking about it for a very long time to come. I loved that, like the book of Esther, though God is not mentioned once, He was present in every single moment of this book. A must read for fans of gritty dystopian novels!
One of my favorite quotes:
“Every life is precious. And if we say otherwise, we are using the exact same logic as the people who believe that you and I don’t deserve the air we breathe.”
Thank you to L.E. Richmond and Quill and Flame publishers for gifting me an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 11, 2025
I could not put this book down!
The message that all life is valuable is so beautifully presented! The characters are all brilliant and relatable, and the love story is so sweet! Andi and Denzel don't hit it off immediately, and she has understandable reasons not to trust him, but she quickly earns his respect, and in turn he shows himself to be someone she can rely on. The book does deal with some really hard topics, such as infertility and abuse, but they are handled really well. The plot and the characters were so engaging, and the pacing was so great that it never felt bogged down by the heaviness of the themes. The ending was fantastic! Not everything ends in sunshine and rainbows, but it is a happy ending, and it fits this dystopian world so that even though it's a tad bittersweet, it's still hopeful.
The message that all life is valuable is so beautifully presented! The characters are all brilliant and relatable, and the love story is so sweet! Andi and Denzel don't hit it off immediately, and she has understandable reasons not to trust him, but she quickly earns his respect, and in turn he shows himself to be someone she can rely on. The book does deal with some really hard topics, such as infertility and abuse, but they are handled really well. The plot and the characters were so engaging, and the pacing was so great that it never felt bogged down by the heaviness of the themes. The ending was fantastic! Not everything ends in sunshine and rainbows, but it is a happy ending, and it fits this dystopian world so that even though it's a tad bittersweet, it's still hopeful.
July 25, 2025
To be totally honest, I mostly read this book because the cover is pretty . . . and I know you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but in this case, the cover was accurate! (And it was also endorsed by an author I love, so that helped.)
To get the content warnings out of the way: Andromache is definitely intended for older teens. In addition to tackling infertility and abortion, Andromache takes place in a corrupt society (not surprising, given that it’s dystopian) and contains implied sexual abuse of a side character. There’s very little violence (though some suspense and several frightening moments), and while there are some dark moments, the story is overall hopeful.
The characters were very engaging and well-done, especially the two main characters. I’ve rarely seen infertility addressed in fiction, especially for a teen audience, and I appreciated the author’s empathetic exploration of that through the eyes of the infertile female main character.
And in addition to that, the plot was unpredictable and intriguing. Several twists at the end caught me off-guard (and I can usually predict the endings of books or movies, thanks to all the time I spend studying story structure). And as for philosophical themes . . . there’s a lot I’m still pondering, even two weeks after finishing it.
Honestly, Andromache wasn’t quite what I was expecting. The dystopian genre has (ironically) gotten more optimistic in the last decade or so. While the story starts at a low point, the characters are nearly always in a better place at the end. Andromache has a hopeful ending . . . but I’m not entirely sure I’d call it a happy ending. I wouldn’t quite say I liked the ending, but it was fitting to the story. And if you prefer the more traditional dystopian novels like Brave New World or 1984, then I think you’d appreciate the ending.
So all in all, Andromache isn’t a book for everyone. It tackles some tough topics, and while the story and especially the ending are hopeful, it’s not overly optimistic. But I enjoyed it (and am still pondering it weeks later), and so if none of that scares you away, then I encourage you to give Andromache a try!
To get the content warnings out of the way: Andromache is definitely intended for older teens. In addition to tackling infertility and abortion, Andromache takes place in a corrupt society (not surprising, given that it’s dystopian) and contains implied sexual abuse of a side character. There’s very little violence (though some suspense and several frightening moments), and while there are some dark moments, the story is overall hopeful.
The characters were very engaging and well-done, especially the two main characters. I’ve rarely seen infertility addressed in fiction, especially for a teen audience, and I appreciated the author’s empathetic exploration of that through the eyes of the infertile female main character.
And in addition to that, the plot was unpredictable and intriguing. Several twists at the end caught me off-guard (and I can usually predict the endings of books or movies, thanks to all the time I spend studying story structure). And as for philosophical themes . . . there’s a lot I’m still pondering, even two weeks after finishing it.
Honestly, Andromache wasn’t quite what I was expecting. The dystopian genre has (ironically) gotten more optimistic in the last decade or so. While the story starts at a low point, the characters are nearly always in a better place at the end. Andromache has a hopeful ending . . . but I’m not entirely sure I’d call it a happy ending. I wouldn’t quite say I liked the ending, but it was fitting to the story. And if you prefer the more traditional dystopian novels like Brave New World or 1984, then I think you’d appreciate the ending.
So all in all, Andromache isn’t a book for everyone. It tackles some tough topics, and while the story and especially the ending are hopeful, it’s not overly optimistic. But I enjoyed it (and am still pondering it weeks later), and so if none of that scares you away, then I encourage you to give Andromache a try!
March 16, 2025
I really enjoyed Richmond’s duology (Chronicles of the Undersea Realm) when I read last year, so I didn’t hesitate to sign up for the street team for this book. The premise had me intrigued, and I was excited to read it.
This is such a unique story, it takes place years after the United States no longer exists. And women in the Cinq (West) are valuable only because the men in the East are limited. Andromache (Andi) is chosen to go to East to marry and bear children. But she has a secret. And that is only the start of this fast-paced story. I enjoyed the nods to the Selection and even Hunger Games, while tackling some harder topics.
Xavier (Denzel) was a quick favorite, arrogant but also kind in the things he’d do when Andi wasn’t watching. Andromache was stunning. She was a force. And I enjoyed watching her and I loved how she stayed true to herself and wouldn’t let things get in her way. Heath and Lida were also great. One character in particular was a favorite, for reasons I can’t say. Her role was small, but extremely significant.
There are some great twists I didn’t see coming. The author does a great job with showing how determined and strong Andi was. There are other key characters that impacted the story. The bad guys were also well done. I got to a point where I could not stop reading. The ending absolutely blew me away. I was shocked.
I’m excited to see what is next for Richmond.
I received an eARC from the author. All views are my own.
This is such a unique story, it takes place years after the United States no longer exists. And women in the Cinq (West) are valuable only because the men in the East are limited. Andromache (Andi) is chosen to go to East to marry and bear children. But she has a secret. And that is only the start of this fast-paced story. I enjoyed the nods to the Selection and even Hunger Games, while tackling some harder topics.
Xavier (Denzel) was a quick favorite, arrogant but also kind in the things he’d do when Andi wasn’t watching. Andromache was stunning. She was a force. And I enjoyed watching her and I loved how she stayed true to herself and wouldn’t let things get in her way. Heath and Lida were also great. One character in particular was a favorite, for reasons I can’t say. Her role was small, but extremely significant.
There are some great twists I didn’t see coming. The author does a great job with showing how determined and strong Andi was. There are other key characters that impacted the story. The bad guys were also well done. I got to a point where I could not stop reading. The ending absolutely blew me away. I was shocked.
I’m excited to see what is next for Richmond.
I received an eARC from the author. All views are my own.
May 5, 2025
💜This book gripped me, and I am by no means exaggerating when I say I could not put it down! Every character, the romance, the brilliant plot...all of it just completely sucked me in!
🌃”Don’t you see that when you start to devalue some human lives, there will eventually be someone who sees you as worthless? If we are the handiwork of some Cosmic Artist, are we not all worthwhile because we bear His fingerprints?”
💜I went into this novel with no clue what it was about, but quickly realized it takes place in America’s future, divided into the East and West. The more technologically advanced East Coast has struggled with reproduction, and every year they exchange technology for Western Brides. The selected women must compete in various challenges, with the chance to become the Consort, bride of the future Elector.
🌃Andromache was an incredible lead; while flawed at times and dishonest about her condition, she was such a warrior, defending those unable to defend themselves. I was consistently amazed by her character, and her love story with Xavier had me SWOOOOONING! Denzel Xavier was what book boyfriends are made of; I adored how charismatic and loyal he was, putting so much faith in Andromache. Bella was utterly adorable, Heath so lovable, I could go on and on about the characters. For a relatively short novel, I could not believe how invested I was!
💜I absolutely loved this book!
🌃”Don’t you see that when you start to devalue some human lives, there will eventually be someone who sees you as worthless? If we are the handiwork of some Cosmic Artist, are we not all worthwhile because we bear His fingerprints?”
💜I went into this novel with no clue what it was about, but quickly realized it takes place in America’s future, divided into the East and West. The more technologically advanced East Coast has struggled with reproduction, and every year they exchange technology for Western Brides. The selected women must compete in various challenges, with the chance to become the Consort, bride of the future Elector.
🌃Andromache was an incredible lead; while flawed at times and dishonest about her condition, she was such a warrior, defending those unable to defend themselves. I was consistently amazed by her character, and her love story with Xavier had me SWOOOOONING! Denzel Xavier was what book boyfriends are made of; I adored how charismatic and loyal he was, putting so much faith in Andromache. Bella was utterly adorable, Heath so lovable, I could go on and on about the characters. For a relatively short novel, I could not believe how invested I was!
💜I absolutely loved this book!
March 24, 2025
WOW🤯 What a book!!! Andromache was so completely different than anything I've ever read before and I LOVED it😍 Esther meets The Hunger Games against a dystopian cyberpunk backdrop seems like an improbable combination; but Ms. Richmond makes it work in the most incredible way.
This book kept me up long past bedtime and has stayed with me ever since. The possibility of what a world can become when society makes a mere commodity of life is truly sobering.
Andromache is crafted in such a way that you feel you are right there with the characters. You see their world through their eyes and feel what they feel. Every character comes alive to tell an epic tale of bittersweet triumph.
While the enemies to allies to more between Andromache and Denzel is definitely quite the romance; their story is so much more than just "romance". It is two people who realize they must come together and try to save the last remaining shreds of humanity in a world where life is merely something to be bargained with. Their struggles, heartbreaks, and ultimately their bittersweet success forge them together in a relationship like no other.
Andromache is epic. It is harrowing. But the sweet moments of family and friendship in between show just how much our humanity is worth fighting for.
This book kept me up long past bedtime and has stayed with me ever since. The possibility of what a world can become when society makes a mere commodity of life is truly sobering.
Andromache is crafted in such a way that you feel you are right there with the characters. You see their world through their eyes and feel what they feel. Every character comes alive to tell an epic tale of bittersweet triumph.
While the enemies to allies to more between Andromache and Denzel is definitely quite the romance; their story is so much more than just "romance". It is two people who realize they must come together and try to save the last remaining shreds of humanity in a world where life is merely something to be bargained with. Their struggles, heartbreaks, and ultimately their bittersweet success forge them together in a relationship like no other.
Andromache is epic. It is harrowing. But the sweet moments of family and friendship in between show just how much our humanity is worth fighting for.
March 14, 2025
Dystopian novel, Andromache, is a brave story about the value of human life and what is at stake when the state determines whose lives are valuable and whose are not.
L.E. Richmond delves into some deep themes in a way that is accessible, particularly to young people. The story is easy to read and not long or drawn out. Whilst some of the themes and concepts are dark, the atmosphere and tone of the story somehow remain light rather than burdensome, making the story accessible to a wider audience and more enjoyable to read than most dystopian fiction novels.
The concept of Paradise Island particularly stirred me. 'Andromache' will make readers think and keep them guessing. I definitely found myself reading on to the next chapter to see what would happen next.
As a high school English teacher, I definitely plan to introduce this book to students 14 years and older in the future. I know for a fact that it would generate some great critical thinking skills and conversations among young people.
L.E. Richmond delves into some deep themes in a way that is accessible, particularly to young people. The story is easy to read and not long or drawn out. Whilst some of the themes and concepts are dark, the atmosphere and tone of the story somehow remain light rather than burdensome, making the story accessible to a wider audience and more enjoyable to read than most dystopian fiction novels.
The concept of Paradise Island particularly stirred me. 'Andromache' will make readers think and keep them guessing. I definitely found myself reading on to the next chapter to see what would happen next.
As a high school English teacher, I definitely plan to introduce this book to students 14 years and older in the future. I know for a fact that it would generate some great critical thinking skills and conversations among young people.
April 29, 2025
4.5 rounded up.
I was hooked with this book from start to finish. hunger games fan? read this!
I was hooked from page one! I loved the banter between the main characters and was smiling and chuckling out loud.
Richmond wrote a story that captures your heart and mind. She also uses her story to signify the value of human life as a whole. I loved the way the characters overcome circumstances around them sometimes individually but also together learning to lean on one another. The romance is just such an added plus within the story.
Only thing I was not crazy about was the epilogue. I found myself a little confused. The last chapter left a hook which I thought was setting up for book 2 and then the epilogue goes into 15 years later with a lot happening. I'm unsure if there is going to be a book 2 that closes the gap which I feel would add clarity and depth to the story. IMO.
With that said, I still loved the book, and it is definitely shelf worthy!!
I was hooked with this book from start to finish. hunger games fan? read this!
I was hooked from page one! I loved the banter between the main characters and was smiling and chuckling out loud.
Richmond wrote a story that captures your heart and mind. She also uses her story to signify the value of human life as a whole. I loved the way the characters overcome circumstances around them sometimes individually but also together learning to lean on one another. The romance is just such an added plus within the story.
Only thing I was not crazy about was the epilogue. I found myself a little confused. The last chapter left a hook which I thought was setting up for book 2 and then the epilogue goes into 15 years later with a lot happening. I'm unsure if there is going to be a book 2 that closes the gap which I feel would add clarity and depth to the story. IMO.
With that said, I still loved the book, and it is definitely shelf worthy!!
March 14, 2025
This is the sort of book that I expect will remain with me. Andromache Kanoska is nothing like me, but I still found myself in her story. L.E. Richmond clearly wrote from her heart with this heroine that treasures life. This tale covers the heavy topic of sanctity of life in various aspects.
This is a dystopian version of Esther. Andromache competes for the heart of the prince beside other women brought in from the West to become wives to help grow the population. I would love to see this as a duology, but the author gave me what I needed in the epilogue so I’m satisfied with the ending.
“Is this how it has to be? Humanity burned & crushed into the ground before a remnant realizes
the value every human life holds?” Andromache Kanoska
SPOILER
Andromache, is infertile in a world that has almost died out and was left with a necessity to repopulate the earth.
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This is a dystopian version of Esther. Andromache competes for the heart of the prince beside other women brought in from the West to become wives to help grow the population. I would love to see this as a duology, but the author gave me what I needed in the epilogue so I’m satisfied with the ending.
“Is this how it has to be? Humanity burned & crushed into the ground before a remnant realizes
the value every human life holds?” Andromache Kanoska
SPOILER
Andromache, is infertile in a world that has almost died out and was left with a necessity to repopulate the earth.
Helpful
Report
March 15, 2025
This story was so good! I knew it was going to be one that would tug at my heartstrings when I read the dedication, since it deals with some difficult subjects, like the sanctity of life. I thought that the author did a fabulous job of handling the heavy situations.
Andromache has hid the fact that she is infertile in a world that prizes child bearing above all else. When her name is drawn to take part in finding a match among the elite young bachelors, she finds herself faced with some hard choices.
I love how this story is a re-telling of Esther! It's such a good, hard to put down book! The characters are well written, with some particularly horrible villains, but also some surprising allies. Several twists and turns to the story caught be by surprise. I only wish there were a sequel!
I received a copy from the author. This is my honest review.
Andromache has hid the fact that she is infertile in a world that prizes child bearing above all else. When her name is drawn to take part in finding a match among the elite young bachelors, she finds herself faced with some hard choices.
I love how this story is a re-telling of Esther! It's such a good, hard to put down book! The characters are well written, with some particularly horrible villains, but also some surprising allies. Several twists and turns to the story caught be by surprise. I only wish there were a sequel!
I received a copy from the author. This is my honest review.
May 12, 2025
Absolutely loved the book. First things out of the way ... a clean read, moving plot with action, well-developed characters that you grow to love, much more than a romance. A thought-provoking book that is easy read and with real substance.
In my opinion, it is a great book for teens, young adults and us older folk. Teens may not think into the issues as much (unless prompted) and just enjoy the story, but the potential for great conversations would be amazing. I don't think it is too overwhelming, though I appreciated the publishers note warning (for people struggling with infertility, abortion, killing for convenience or abuse), though the book certainly dwells on each of these. Christians would recognise themes of worth, real love and sacrifice.
The writing and the story ... just loved it. Wish there were more gripping, involved and interesting books just like it.
In my opinion, it is a great book for teens, young adults and us older folk. Teens may not think into the issues as much (unless prompted) and just enjoy the story, but the potential for great conversations would be amazing. I don't think it is too overwhelming, though I appreciated the publishers note warning (for people struggling with infertility, abortion, killing for convenience or abuse), though the book certainly dwells on each of these. Christians would recognise themes of worth, real love and sacrifice.
The writing and the story ... just loved it. Wish there were more gripping, involved and interesting books just like it.
May 15, 2025
Andromache is a dystopian romance that raises the question about what defines our worth. Is it what we can tangibly provide or is it simply inherent in our being?
It was reminiscent of The Selection, a smidgen of Hunger Games, the Biblical story of Esther, and The morality conversation in the Giver.
This is a solid read though I felt it took me about 20% before I fully got into the story. I am a mood reader and it’s been a while since I’ve read dystopian so it may have been my own mood over the actual story line. I still highly recommend this and loved that the ending was satisfying without being a standard HEA that would be out of place in this genre. It’s a happy without completely upending the progression of the story and forcing something that doesn’t fit the world.
It was reminiscent of The Selection, a smidgen of Hunger Games, the Biblical story of Esther, and The morality conversation in the Giver.
This is a solid read though I felt it took me about 20% before I fully got into the story. I am a mood reader and it’s been a while since I’ve read dystopian so it may have been my own mood over the actual story line. I still highly recommend this and loved that the ending was satisfying without being a standard HEA that would be out of place in this genre. It’s a happy without completely upending the progression of the story and forcing something that doesn’t fit the world.
June 9, 2025
I am not usually a dystopian fan, but the synopsis drew me in. I really liked the different ways the question is asked: What makes a person valuable?
There are heavy topics here: abortion, infertility, being married against your will
But it's handled very well.
I really love the characters. Andi is kind, but spunky. We come to see Xavier as just and having a heart of gold. This makes their romance sweet, even when they are at each other's throats at the beginning.
I think this may be because I'm not a dystopian fan, the backstory of how the world came to be was a little confusing at times, and some of the plot points were very predictable.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, and read it almost in one sitting.
There are heavy topics here: abortion, infertility, being married against your will
But it's handled very well.
I really love the characters. Andi is kind, but spunky. We come to see Xavier as just and having a heart of gold. This makes their romance sweet, even when they are at each other's throats at the beginning.
I think this may be because I'm not a dystopian fan, the backstory of how the world came to be was a little confusing at times, and some of the plot points were very predictable.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, and read it almost in one sitting.
March 23, 2025
Andromache is a gripping story of a future dystopian society. Though loosely based on the book of Esther, it has its own storyline, with many compelling characters and a gripping story arc of its own. I loved that Laura tackled hard subjects such as abuse, abortion and the value of human life without getting super dark. She wrote characters with clear reasons or back story for their actions (for good or ill). I was captivated by the premise and was rooting for Andi to fight for truth to be revealed as well as love to survive. Inspiring with an unexpected twist. In general an easy flowing read for YA. I highly recommend this one!
April 15, 2025
Set in a stark, high-contrast dystopian future, Andromache dwells in the tension between its harsh world and its scattered but enduring beauty. The story is rich in themes about the value of human life, played out against a backdrop of both the beaten and the cold and calculating where the nurturing characters stand out like small beacons of light.
It reminded me of a cross between The Selection series and The Hunger Games, two versions of dystopia I didn’t expect to, but I think that encapsulates the bittersweet constantly coursing through the story.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and found it a fascinating read.
It reminded me of a cross between The Selection series and The Hunger Games, two versions of dystopia I didn’t expect to, but I think that encapsulates the bittersweet constantly coursing through the story.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and found it a fascinating read.
April 23, 2025
This is the first book I've read by L. E. Richmond and it blew me away. I didn't know what to expect but this book sunk its robotic claws in me and wouldn't let me go. Andromache is a dystopian set in the remains of the US and it is very eerie how close it could be to our own. Richmond paints a dark picture where nothing is sacred and where women are picked for brides for the remaining men of the East. She does a wonderful job of creating a unique world that is as beautiful as it is unsettling. I found myself rooting for Andromache and the other girls. Nothing could've prepared me for the ending of this book. I can't wait to read more from her.
April 21, 2025
I really enjoyed this dystopian tale. It reminded me of a mixture of The Selection, Hunger Games, and Divergent. It's definitely a page turner. I was engrossed in Andi's story, eager to see what happens next. The characters are well developed and add to the story in meaningful ways. I highly recommend giving it a read!
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