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Blackout
One wall divides life from darkness. After the worldwide Blackout, America built a concrete wall--the Frontier--across the middle of the nation to isolate its precious electricity in the top half. Everyone below the Frontier was forsaken, and now only a few survive in the grim region known as the Dark Zone.
Sixteen year old Phoenix Troublefield endures the dark with his girlfriend, Star Windsong. When America announces that it will trade electricity for immigrants, Phoenix and Star sacrifice themselves for the power that might save her younger brother. On the other side of the Frontier, they find America is not what they expected, and instead they are thrown into a shocking and deeply personal contest that threatens to destroy their love. When the chance comes to escape back into the Dark Zone, it may already be too late.
Sixteen year old Phoenix Troublefield endures the dark with his girlfriend, Star Windsong. When America announces that it will trade electricity for immigrants, Phoenix and Star sacrifice themselves for the power that might save her younger brother. On the other side of the Frontier, they find America is not what they expected, and instead they are thrown into a shocking and deeply personal contest that threatens to destroy their love. When the chance comes to escape back into the Dark Zone, it may already be too late.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2014
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June 24, 2014
Reviewed for Bit'N Book Promoters. Full review can be found at link.
It truly says something about a book when, despite all the hectic things going on in your life -your busy schedule, work, kids, writing, whatever it may be – you make time for the novel. You invest in it, and savour it.
I read this in less than three days, which always means I enjoyed the book. A book that is read in that time for me, is good. And not just good, but addictive. I want to know more. I can't leave it alone.
I even read this book while I was eating dinner.
That's how much it hooked me.
The concept of Blackout isn't really new, but the details were unique. The whole dystopia, end of the world, YA type novel isn't anything we haven't seen before. But I'm a sucker for a good one. And this book is like the Hunger Games meets a very soft non-alien-infested Pitch Black. It has hints of other stories I've read, and films I've seen that focus on the post-apocalyptic society: the injustice, the conspiracies, the dictatorship that is only just hidden by a 'we're in this together' bullsh*t smoke-screen. This novel is no different. And yet, it is.
I loved it.
The characters were undeniably some of the best I've read in a while. And to make a change, the POV was in the head of a male, named Phoenix. Now when I first read the description I nearly scoffed. “Phoenix Troublefield? Are you kidding me?” But in the first few chapters I began to understand the odd names. Star, Phoenix, Blaze, Wick. All the names of the DZ's (a.k.a the Dead Zone inhabitants who are on the other side of the enormous wall known as the Frontier that separates them from the 'easies' who have all the power) are names that represent light, warmth. Everything they don't have. Which is kind of sad in a way. And it made me appreciate their names and meanings even more.
Phoenix is tough, strong and very male. I liked how he was portrayed. But his weakness was Star, and that just made him more admirable and likeable. He has a strong sense of family, though he questions his place as a Troublefield until he eventually leaves to go to the US on the other side of the Frontier. I liked how he did it for Star. For love. She wanted to get electricity so her brother Wick would have heat and hopefully recover from his illness. The Easies offer electricity for one young DZ in the home to come across the Frontier and join 'the Carnival'. It isn't clear what 'the Carnival' is until they go to the other side. Worst part is, they're separated when this happens so you truly feel the anxiety of Phoenix's mental state as he fears for her and wonders where she is and if she's okay.
Then they get to the other side and discover that the Carnival is like some kind of twisted dating game show where they, the DZ's, have to win the 'hearts' of four spoiled a-hole kids from prominent United States' families. Two boys, two girls. It shattered my heart as both Phoenix and Star sat side-by-side painfully absorbing this sh*tbomb the b*stards have just dropped on them.
From then on it's like The Hunger Games with all the schedules and faking things, pretending to be happy and smiling for the camera. But with a twist. Phoenix plays the bad boy and their profile pages are online, and they update for all the internet users to see. Like a social network. A TV dating game show on the web. It's clever. I also loved the idea of the phones they all had with the pop-up schedules. It just felt so realistic. I could imagine the future being like that.
As for characters besides Phoenix, there were many to like. Elektra being one of them. She's a shadow: DZ's that keeps to themselves, are basically the strong elite of the DZ's and are feared by those who aren't them. She turns out to be a complex character. She's tough but not confrontational and doesn't try to make a point of her strength or abilities. You just know it and you know not to mess with her. The scene where they get a medical exam and Phoenix says that she has several hairline fractures on her legs and severe burns on her back, and he tries to ask her about it, she just brushes it off. I like that about her and admired her after that. She doesn't want people feeling sorry for her, despite her tough life. She's worked hard and earned it and that's all she sees about it. Good for her.
Tinder is a cute kid, and a softie. Phoenix abhors his weakness at first but then you see him start to treat Tinder like a little brother. It's a nice, subtle relationship they have. I love the contrast and their banter was always funny to read.
Blaze is supposed to be the bad guy, but I didn't see him that way. He and Phoenix end up being rivals which wasn't a surprise, but they're both doing it for similar reasons. They want people they love to have electricity. To have power and live in warmth. Blaze is tough and strong but his fear of losing out on the prize (a.k.a the girl called Hazel who they're both playing to win the heart of) causes him to act irrationally and that doesn't end well for him. I felt a little sad for him.
Star. She's Star. Not my favourite character. Oddly, my least favourite. She has a loving heart and warmth about her but she seemed easily swayed and didn't hold a strong sense of who she is, of who she and Phoenix are to each other. I understood her jealousy at times but I just thought she reacted like an idiot. She was unfair to him and the way she hid so much from him (pretending to play Wesley when instead she goes for Bing the pervy dufus, without telling Phoenix) just annoyed me. I like a girl who tells the truth because it's right. Not hide it because she thinks she's protecting him. He's a grown man, and a tough one at that, he can handle it. Phoenix may have been just as jealous but he was mentally strong enough to know that the Carnival was just a game. A dangerous one. And he knew they needed to win, no matter the cost. Otherwise bad sh*t would happen. Though we don't know what exactly that means until the end. And it's horrible.
They use the rejects, those that don't win the competition, as guinea pigs to try to find a cure for this epidemic that is turning the infected blind. It was an unpleasant discovery to say the least. But I'm so intrigued to know more. The ending left it with many questions unanswered and I'm desperate to read book two. I'm sure it will be even better than this one.
I rate this book 5 out of 5, simply because I couldn't find fault with it. Love the writing, loved the characters, the scenery, the plot. Everything.
Thank you for letting me read this. Awesomesauce!
It truly says something about a book when, despite all the hectic things going on in your life -your busy schedule, work, kids, writing, whatever it may be – you make time for the novel. You invest in it, and savour it.
I read this in less than three days, which always means I enjoyed the book. A book that is read in that time for me, is good. And not just good, but addictive. I want to know more. I can't leave it alone.
I even read this book while I was eating dinner.
That's how much it hooked me.
The concept of Blackout isn't really new, but the details were unique. The whole dystopia, end of the world, YA type novel isn't anything we haven't seen before. But I'm a sucker for a good one. And this book is like the Hunger Games meets a very soft non-alien-infested Pitch Black. It has hints of other stories I've read, and films I've seen that focus on the post-apocalyptic society: the injustice, the conspiracies, the dictatorship that is only just hidden by a 'we're in this together' bullsh*t smoke-screen. This novel is no different. And yet, it is.
I loved it.
The characters were undeniably some of the best I've read in a while. And to make a change, the POV was in the head of a male, named Phoenix. Now when I first read the description I nearly scoffed. “Phoenix Troublefield? Are you kidding me?” But in the first few chapters I began to understand the odd names. Star, Phoenix, Blaze, Wick. All the names of the DZ's (a.k.a the Dead Zone inhabitants who are on the other side of the enormous wall known as the Frontier that separates them from the 'easies' who have all the power) are names that represent light, warmth. Everything they don't have. Which is kind of sad in a way. And it made me appreciate their names and meanings even more.
Phoenix is tough, strong and very male. I liked how he was portrayed. But his weakness was Star, and that just made him more admirable and likeable. He has a strong sense of family, though he questions his place as a Troublefield until he eventually leaves to go to the US on the other side of the Frontier. I liked how he did it for Star. For love. She wanted to get electricity so her brother Wick would have heat and hopefully recover from his illness. The Easies offer electricity for one young DZ in the home to come across the Frontier and join 'the Carnival'. It isn't clear what 'the Carnival' is until they go to the other side. Worst part is, they're separated when this happens so you truly feel the anxiety of Phoenix's mental state as he fears for her and wonders where she is and if she's okay.
Then they get to the other side and discover that the Carnival is like some kind of twisted dating game show where they, the DZ's, have to win the 'hearts' of four spoiled a-hole kids from prominent United States' families. Two boys, two girls. It shattered my heart as both Phoenix and Star sat side-by-side painfully absorbing this sh*tbomb the b*stards have just dropped on them.
From then on it's like The Hunger Games with all the schedules and faking things, pretending to be happy and smiling for the camera. But with a twist. Phoenix plays the bad boy and their profile pages are online, and they update for all the internet users to see. Like a social network. A TV dating game show on the web. It's clever. I also loved the idea of the phones they all had with the pop-up schedules. It just felt so realistic. I could imagine the future being like that.
As for characters besides Phoenix, there were many to like. Elektra being one of them. She's a shadow: DZ's that keeps to themselves, are basically the strong elite of the DZ's and are feared by those who aren't them. She turns out to be a complex character. She's tough but not confrontational and doesn't try to make a point of her strength or abilities. You just know it and you know not to mess with her. The scene where they get a medical exam and Phoenix says that she has several hairline fractures on her legs and severe burns on her back, and he tries to ask her about it, she just brushes it off. I like that about her and admired her after that. She doesn't want people feeling sorry for her, despite her tough life. She's worked hard and earned it and that's all she sees about it. Good for her.
Tinder is a cute kid, and a softie. Phoenix abhors his weakness at first but then you see him start to treat Tinder like a little brother. It's a nice, subtle relationship they have. I love the contrast and their banter was always funny to read.
Blaze is supposed to be the bad guy, but I didn't see him that way. He and Phoenix end up being rivals which wasn't a surprise, but they're both doing it for similar reasons. They want people they love to have electricity. To have power and live in warmth. Blaze is tough and strong but his fear of losing out on the prize (a.k.a the girl called Hazel who they're both playing to win the heart of) causes him to act irrationally and that doesn't end well for him. I felt a little sad for him.
Star. She's Star. Not my favourite character. Oddly, my least favourite. She has a loving heart and warmth about her but she seemed easily swayed and didn't hold a strong sense of who she is, of who she and Phoenix are to each other. I understood her jealousy at times but I just thought she reacted like an idiot. She was unfair to him and the way she hid so much from him (pretending to play Wesley when instead she goes for Bing the pervy dufus, without telling Phoenix) just annoyed me. I like a girl who tells the truth because it's right. Not hide it because she thinks she's protecting him. He's a grown man, and a tough one at that, he can handle it. Phoenix may have been just as jealous but he was mentally strong enough to know that the Carnival was just a game. A dangerous one. And he knew they needed to win, no matter the cost. Otherwise bad sh*t would happen. Though we don't know what exactly that means until the end. And it's horrible.
They use the rejects, those that don't win the competition, as guinea pigs to try to find a cure for this epidemic that is turning the infected blind. It was an unpleasant discovery to say the least. But I'm so intrigued to know more. The ending left it with many questions unanswered and I'm desperate to read book two. I'm sure it will be even better than this one.
I rate this book 5 out of 5, simply because I couldn't find fault with it. Love the writing, loved the characters, the scenery, the plot. Everything.
Thank you for letting me read this. Awesomesauce!
June 22, 2014
www.readingbifrost.com
When the entire world falls into darkness, the US is divided into two halves: the northern half with power, America; the southern half in darkness, the Dark Zone. Star and Phoenix are DZs from the Dark Zone, taking care of their families and each other. When Star’s little brother, Wick, gets a sickness that only the heat from electricity can heal she turns to the Frontier – the divider between their worlds – to give herself up to the Easies so her family will be granted the power they need.
Phoenix has always been taught his family comes first in everything, but he can’t let Star go to America alone. He follows her beyond the Frontier into a world of bright lights, working cars, social media, and a real-deal game of the bachelor/bachelorette where DZs aren’t held accountable for how they play the game. All is fair in love and war, and this is both.
“I might have to make this girl love me. Love me. I can’t be thinking of ways to kill her.”
Henry’s Blackout is the start of differently crafted dystopian series. There’s no fully established and controlling government that needs to be overthrown, there’s no TV show centered around murdering teenagers, and both sides have advantages and disadvantages. At times it almost reminds me of The Outsiders; Socs vs. Greasers, privileged vs. underprivileged. DZs are seen as being from the wrong side of the tracks (Frontier), and Easies from the wealthy side.
Of course there are similarities with other dystopian series as well. A group called the Shadows can be compared to the Careers in The Hunger Games trilogy. And even though the game isn’t televised, the Easies follow their favorite DZ competitors through social media and magazines.
The story moves along at a continuously flowing pace giving a few short flashes into Star and Phoenix’s history together, but there’s never a point where there’s dead space clotting the story’s progression.
Phoenix’s character is in tune to his side of the Frontier when it comes to everything but Star. He’s strong, a hunter, naturally cautious, but still holds the qualities of a 16 year old boy and not a super-human survivor that’s become the predominant protagonist in dystopian novels.
Star’s character is weak, when you’re thinking physically and emotionally. But she has a strong determination that outweighs her weaknesses and balances the heroine’s flaws and attributes. She seems a little air-headed but the way Henry has her playing the game Star might not be as clueless as she seems at first. We’ll just have to wait for the next book to see how her character progresses.
Elektra is the Shadow character, trained in harsh conditions in the Dark Zone to be that super-human survivor. I have a strong feeling that her character will most likely have a good number of followers by the second book.
Overall, Henry’s Blackout is about loving and letting go; loyalty to family and learning your own way, and knowing what is worth fighting for in a world separated by light and darkness. If you like young adult dystopian novels, I recommend Blackout.
When the entire world falls into darkness, the US is divided into two halves: the northern half with power, America; the southern half in darkness, the Dark Zone. Star and Phoenix are DZs from the Dark Zone, taking care of their families and each other. When Star’s little brother, Wick, gets a sickness that only the heat from electricity can heal she turns to the Frontier – the divider between their worlds – to give herself up to the Easies so her family will be granted the power they need.
Phoenix has always been taught his family comes first in everything, but he can’t let Star go to America alone. He follows her beyond the Frontier into a world of bright lights, working cars, social media, and a real-deal game of the bachelor/bachelorette where DZs aren’t held accountable for how they play the game. All is fair in love and war, and this is both.
“I might have to make this girl love me. Love me. I can’t be thinking of ways to kill her.”
Henry’s Blackout is the start of differently crafted dystopian series. There’s no fully established and controlling government that needs to be overthrown, there’s no TV show centered around murdering teenagers, and both sides have advantages and disadvantages. At times it almost reminds me of The Outsiders; Socs vs. Greasers, privileged vs. underprivileged. DZs are seen as being from the wrong side of the tracks (Frontier), and Easies from the wealthy side.
Of course there are similarities with other dystopian series as well. A group called the Shadows can be compared to the Careers in The Hunger Games trilogy. And even though the game isn’t televised, the Easies follow their favorite DZ competitors through social media and magazines.
The story moves along at a continuously flowing pace giving a few short flashes into Star and Phoenix’s history together, but there’s never a point where there’s dead space clotting the story’s progression.
Phoenix’s character is in tune to his side of the Frontier when it comes to everything but Star. He’s strong, a hunter, naturally cautious, but still holds the qualities of a 16 year old boy and not a super-human survivor that’s become the predominant protagonist in dystopian novels.
Star’s character is weak, when you’re thinking physically and emotionally. But she has a strong determination that outweighs her weaknesses and balances the heroine’s flaws and attributes. She seems a little air-headed but the way Henry has her playing the game Star might not be as clueless as she seems at first. We’ll just have to wait for the next book to see how her character progresses.
Elektra is the Shadow character, trained in harsh conditions in the Dark Zone to be that super-human survivor. I have a strong feeling that her character will most likely have a good number of followers by the second book.
Overall, Henry’s Blackout is about loving and letting go; loyalty to family and learning your own way, and knowing what is worth fighting for in a world separated by light and darkness. If you like young adult dystopian novels, I recommend Blackout.
June 29, 2014
Blackout is an intense and gripping novel that takes readers on a wild ride after a worldwide blackout results in the division of America.
When unexplained events leave the the world in total darkness America realizes they don't have enough electricity to support the entire country. Without warning they construct a wall dividing America in half. Electricity is restored to the northern half leaving the southern half to fend for themselves. As a result most people living in the area known as the "Dark Zone" do not survive. Phoenix and his parents are just one of 8 families left in Dark DC. Like the other survivors, they have learned to adapt to their new life. Phoenix even falls in love with a girl named Star. Phoenix and Star discover that America is offering to trade electricity for Dark Zone residents. In order to save Star's sick brother her and Phoenix agree to the trade. But, things aren't always as they appear and this seemingly generous offer has a hidden agenda. Can Phoenix and Star survive?
Blackout is absolutely riveting. The story is well organized and powerfully consuming. I liked the fast pace and numerous twists which kept me on edge. The book was so captivating that I read the entire story in one day. I anxiously await Book Two.
I highly recommend picking up a copy of Blackout.
When unexplained events leave the the world in total darkness America realizes they don't have enough electricity to support the entire country. Without warning they construct a wall dividing America in half. Electricity is restored to the northern half leaving the southern half to fend for themselves. As a result most people living in the area known as the "Dark Zone" do not survive. Phoenix and his parents are just one of 8 families left in Dark DC. Like the other survivors, they have learned to adapt to their new life. Phoenix even falls in love with a girl named Star. Phoenix and Star discover that America is offering to trade electricity for Dark Zone residents. In order to save Star's sick brother her and Phoenix agree to the trade. But, things aren't always as they appear and this seemingly generous offer has a hidden agenda. Can Phoenix and Star survive?
Blackout is absolutely riveting. The story is well organized and powerfully consuming. I liked the fast pace and numerous twists which kept me on edge. The book was so captivating that I read the entire story in one day. I anxiously await Book Two.
I highly recommend picking up a copy of Blackout.
June 19, 2015
This book felt a bit like The Hunger Games but without all the blood and guts and with a very different competition. It was a fast read that really pulled you in. The characters were varied and interesting. I liked it enough to continue the series.
August 10, 2014
I was so hooked and it happened so fast . I can't wait for the next books. Reading about Star and Phoenix's love is so heart warming and some times heart breaking.One of the best books I have read so far. Anyone who love romance and adventure must read it it is that good.
October 9, 2014
It truly says something about a book when, despite all the hectic things going on in your life -your busy schedule, work, kids, writing, whatever it may be – you make time for the novel. You invest in it, and savour it.
I read this in less than three days, which always means I enjoyed the book. A book that is read in that time for me, is good. And not just good, but addictive. I want to know more. I can't leave it alone.
I even read this book while I was eating dinner.
That's how much it hooked me.
The concept of Blackout isn't really new, but the details were unique. The whole dystopia, end of the world, YA type novel isn't anything we haven't seen before. But I'm a sucker for a good one. And this book is like the Hunger Games meets a very soft non-alien-infested Pitch Black. It has hints of other stories I've read, and films I've seen that focus on the post-apocalyptic society: the injustice, the conspiracies, the dictatorship that is only just hidden by a 'we're in this together' bullsh*t smoke-screen. This novel is no different. And yet, it is.
I loved it.
The characters were undeniably some of the best I've read in a while. And to make a change, the POV was in the head of a male, named Phoenix. Now when I first read the description I nearly scoffed. “Phoenix Troublefield? Are you kidding me?” But in the first few chapters I began to understand the odd names. Star, Phoenix, Blaze, Wick. All the names of the DZ's (a.k.a the Dead Zone inhabitants who are on the other side of the enormous wall known as the Frontier that separates them from the 'easies' who have all the power) are names that represent light, warmth. Everything they don't have. Which is kind of sad in a way. And it made me appreciate their names and meanings even more.
Phoenix is tough, strong and very male. I liked how he was portrayed. But his weakness was Star, and that just made him more admirable and likeable. He has a strong sense of family, though he questions his place as a Troublefield until he eventually leaves to go to the US on the other side of the Frontier. I liked how he did it for Star. For love. She wanted to get electricity so her brother Wick would have heat and hopefully recover from his illness. The Easies offer electricity for one young DZ in the home to come across the Frontier and join 'the Carnival'. It isn't clear what 'the Carnival' is until they go to the other side. Worst part is, they're separated when this happens so you truly feel the anxiety of Phoenix's mental state as he fears for her and wonders where she is and if she's okay.
Then they get to the other side and discover that the Carnival is like some kind of twisted dating game show where they, the DZ's, have to win the 'hearts' of four spoiled a-hole kids from prominent United States' families. Two boys, two girls. It shattered my heart as both Phoenix and Star sat side-by-side painfully absorbing this sh*tbomb the b*stards have just dropped on them.
From then on it's like The Hunger Games with all the schedules and faking things, pretending to be happy and smiling for the camera. But with a twist. Phoenix plays the bad boy and their profile pages are online, and they update for all the internet users to see. Like a social network. A TV dating game show on the web. It's clever. I also loved the idea of the phones they all had with the pop-up schedules. It just felt so realistic. I could imagine the future being like that.
As for characters besides Phoenix, there were many to like. Elektra being one of them. She's a shadow: DZ's that keeps to themselves, are basically the strong elite of the DZ's and are feared by those who aren't them. She turns out to be a complex character. She's tough but not confrontational and doesn't try to make a point of her strength or abilities. You just know it and you know not to mess with her. The scene where they get a medical exam and Phoenix says that she has several hairline fractures on her legs and severe burns on her back, and he tries to ask her about it, she just brushes it off. I like that about her and admired her after that. She doesn't want people feeling sorry for her, despite her tough life. She's worked hard and earned it and that's all she sees about it. Good for her.
Tinder is a cute kid, and a softie. Phoenix abhors his weakness at first but then you see him start to treat Tinder like a little brother. It's a nice, subtle relationship they have. I love the contrast and their banter was always funny to read.
Blaze is supposed to be the bad guy, but I didn't see him that way. He and Phoenix end up being rivals which wasn't a surprise, but they're both doing it for similar reasons. They want people they love to have electricity. To have power and live in warmth. Blaze is tough and strong but his fear of losing out on the prize (a.k.a the girl called Hazel who they're both playing to win the heart of) causes him to act irrationally and that doesn't end well for him. I felt a little sad for him.
Star. She's Star. Not my favourite character. Oddly, my least favourite. She has a loving heart and warmth about her but she seemed easily swayed and didn't hold a strong sense of who she is, of who she and Phoenix are to each other. I understood her jealousy at times but I just thought she reacted like an idiot. She was unfair to him and the way she hid so much from him (pretending to play Wesley when instead she goes for Bing the pervy dufus, without telling Phoenix) just annoyed me. I like a girl who tells the truth because it's right. Not hide it because she thinks she's protecting him. He's a grown man, and a tough one at that, he can handle it. Phoenix may have been just as jealous but he was mentally strong enough to know that the Carnival was just a game. A dangerous one. And he knew they needed to win, no matter the cost. Otherwise bad sh*t would happen. Though we don't know what exactly that means until the end. And it's horrible.
They use the rejects, those that don't win the competition, as guinea pigs to try to find a cure for this epidemic that is turning the infected blind. It was an unpleasant discovery to say the least. But I'm so intrigued to know more. The ending left it with many questions unanswered and I'm desperate to read book two. I'm sure it will be even better than this one.
I rate this book 5 out of 5, simply because I couldn't find fault with it. Love the writing, loved the characters, the scenery, the plot. Everything.
Thank you for letting me read this. Awesomesauce!
Reviewed for Bit'N Book Promoters web | facebook | twitter
I read this in less than three days, which always means I enjoyed the book. A book that is read in that time for me, is good. And not just good, but addictive. I want to know more. I can't leave it alone.
I even read this book while I was eating dinner.
That's how much it hooked me.
The concept of Blackout isn't really new, but the details were unique. The whole dystopia, end of the world, YA type novel isn't anything we haven't seen before. But I'm a sucker for a good one. And this book is like the Hunger Games meets a very soft non-alien-infested Pitch Black. It has hints of other stories I've read, and films I've seen that focus on the post-apocalyptic society: the injustice, the conspiracies, the dictatorship that is only just hidden by a 'we're in this together' bullsh*t smoke-screen. This novel is no different. And yet, it is.
I loved it.
The characters were undeniably some of the best I've read in a while. And to make a change, the POV was in the head of a male, named Phoenix. Now when I first read the description I nearly scoffed. “Phoenix Troublefield? Are you kidding me?” But in the first few chapters I began to understand the odd names. Star, Phoenix, Blaze, Wick. All the names of the DZ's (a.k.a the Dead Zone inhabitants who are on the other side of the enormous wall known as the Frontier that separates them from the 'easies' who have all the power) are names that represent light, warmth. Everything they don't have. Which is kind of sad in a way. And it made me appreciate their names and meanings even more.
Phoenix is tough, strong and very male. I liked how he was portrayed. But his weakness was Star, and that just made him more admirable and likeable. He has a strong sense of family, though he questions his place as a Troublefield until he eventually leaves to go to the US on the other side of the Frontier. I liked how he did it for Star. For love. She wanted to get electricity so her brother Wick would have heat and hopefully recover from his illness. The Easies offer electricity for one young DZ in the home to come across the Frontier and join 'the Carnival'. It isn't clear what 'the Carnival' is until they go to the other side. Worst part is, they're separated when this happens so you truly feel the anxiety of Phoenix's mental state as he fears for her and wonders where she is and if she's okay.
Then they get to the other side and discover that the Carnival is like some kind of twisted dating game show where they, the DZ's, have to win the 'hearts' of four spoiled a-hole kids from prominent United States' families. Two boys, two girls. It shattered my heart as both Phoenix and Star sat side-by-side painfully absorbing this sh*tbomb the b*stards have just dropped on them.
From then on it's like The Hunger Games with all the schedules and faking things, pretending to be happy and smiling for the camera. But with a twist. Phoenix plays the bad boy and their profile pages are online, and they update for all the internet users to see. Like a social network. A TV dating game show on the web. It's clever. I also loved the idea of the phones they all had with the pop-up schedules. It just felt so realistic. I could imagine the future being like that.
As for characters besides Phoenix, there were many to like. Elektra being one of them. She's a shadow: DZ's that keeps to themselves, are basically the strong elite of the DZ's and are feared by those who aren't them. She turns out to be a complex character. She's tough but not confrontational and doesn't try to make a point of her strength or abilities. You just know it and you know not to mess with her. The scene where they get a medical exam and Phoenix says that she has several hairline fractures on her legs and severe burns on her back, and he tries to ask her about it, she just brushes it off. I like that about her and admired her after that. She doesn't want people feeling sorry for her, despite her tough life. She's worked hard and earned it and that's all she sees about it. Good for her.
Tinder is a cute kid, and a softie. Phoenix abhors his weakness at first but then you see him start to treat Tinder like a little brother. It's a nice, subtle relationship they have. I love the contrast and their banter was always funny to read.
Blaze is supposed to be the bad guy, but I didn't see him that way. He and Phoenix end up being rivals which wasn't a surprise, but they're both doing it for similar reasons. They want people they love to have electricity. To have power and live in warmth. Blaze is tough and strong but his fear of losing out on the prize (a.k.a the girl called Hazel who they're both playing to win the heart of) causes him to act irrationally and that doesn't end well for him. I felt a little sad for him.
Star. She's Star. Not my favourite character. Oddly, my least favourite. She has a loving heart and warmth about her but she seemed easily swayed and didn't hold a strong sense of who she is, of who she and Phoenix are to each other. I understood her jealousy at times but I just thought she reacted like an idiot. She was unfair to him and the way she hid so much from him (pretending to play Wesley when instead she goes for Bing the pervy dufus, without telling Phoenix) just annoyed me. I like a girl who tells the truth because it's right. Not hide it because she thinks she's protecting him. He's a grown man, and a tough one at that, he can handle it. Phoenix may have been just as jealous but he was mentally strong enough to know that the Carnival was just a game. A dangerous one. And he knew they needed to win, no matter the cost. Otherwise bad sh*t would happen. Though we don't know what exactly that means until the end. And it's horrible.
They use the rejects, those that don't win the competition, as guinea pigs to try to find a cure for this epidemic that is turning the infected blind. It was an unpleasant discovery to say the least. But I'm so intrigued to know more. The ending left it with many questions unanswered and I'm desperate to read book two. I'm sure it will be even better than this one.
I rate this book 5 out of 5, simply because I couldn't find fault with it. Love the writing, loved the characters, the scenery, the plot. Everything.
Thank you for letting me read this. Awesomesauce!
Reviewed for Bit'N Book Promoters web | facebook | twitter
August 9, 2021
This is Hunger Games revisited
This tale makes me think of the Hunger Games. You have the people who have everything and those who live in darkness without power. To get electricity you play games like the Hunger Games. I'm done
This tale makes me think of the Hunger Games. You have the people who have everything and those who live in darkness without power. To get electricity you play games like the Hunger Games. I'm done
September 16, 2015
I received Blackout from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Before Blackout, I hadn’t read a dystopian in quite a while. Well, I read The One in May, but it’s one of the few I’ve read all year. I’ve been reading so many contemporaries lately. I’m not sure what I was expecting from Blackout, but it wasn’t what I got. It was so good though! It has similarities to both The Hunger Games and The One, but it’s also similar to something else that would be a spoiler if I said what it is. There are reviews on Goodreads that give the whole thing away, so if you really need to know, go read one of those. That’s a warning to be careful on Goodreads if you don’t want to know.
Set sixty-seven years after solar flare hit the Earth, Blackout is narrated by Phoenix, the male DZ, as the citizens of the Dark Zone are called. That surprised me, as it seems like the obvious choice for a female YA author would be to write from the female DZ’s point of view. I really like Phoenix, though, so I’m glad that Madeleine Henry went with him for the main character. Seen only through Phoenix’s eyes, Star is a weaker character and I don’t know if I like her that much. Not much time is spent on their relationship at the beginning of the book. Phoenix seems to believe he’s deeply in love with Star — and that she loves him too — but they seem to be together out of convenience to me. There are only seven families — twenty-four people in all — left in Dark DC, and most of them are adults. I hope Phoenix and Star don’t end up together at the end of the trilogy, but if they do I can’t say I wasn’t warned in advance.
Right now, my pick for Phoenix would be Elektra. After Phoenix, Elektra is probably my favorite character. They’re thrown together, along with another boy named Tinder, as roommates in America. (Most dystopians give their characters unusual names with no explanation. Blackout actually gives that information: DZs all have names that symbolize light and warmth — Flint, Spark, Wick, Aura, and Burn.) Elektra is a Shadow, one of the mysterious elite DZs who are the best hunters and fighters and are rarely seen by the rest of the DZs. She’s strong, smart, and a fast-thinker, but there are hints that her life as a Shadow is not easy.
I like Tinder, too. At first meeting, he seems timid and weak. He is physically weak — skinny, with knobby knees — but I think there’s a quiet strength to him. He stands up for himself when he needs to. I think he will end up being an asset to Phoenix as the trilogy moves along. I hope Phoenix learns to rely more on Elektra and Tinder and to dwell less on what he thinks Star might be doing.
Blackout is pretty short, but a lot happens in those 182 pages. I hate being so vague, but I really can’t talk about the plot without giving away spoilers. The ending brings a lot of information all at once and of course it ends with a cliffhanger just as Phoenix is discovering what he and his companions are really in for. It made me wish I already had the next book to read. It’s not out yet…maybe soon?
Before Blackout, I hadn’t read a dystopian in quite a while. Well, I read The One in May, but it’s one of the few I’ve read all year. I’ve been reading so many contemporaries lately. I’m not sure what I was expecting from Blackout, but it wasn’t what I got. It was so good though! It has similarities to both The Hunger Games and The One, but it’s also similar to something else that would be a spoiler if I said what it is. There are reviews on Goodreads that give the whole thing away, so if you really need to know, go read one of those. That’s a warning to be careful on Goodreads if you don’t want to know.
Set sixty-seven years after solar flare hit the Earth, Blackout is narrated by Phoenix, the male DZ, as the citizens of the Dark Zone are called. That surprised me, as it seems like the obvious choice for a female YA author would be to write from the female DZ’s point of view. I really like Phoenix, though, so I’m glad that Madeleine Henry went with him for the main character. Seen only through Phoenix’s eyes, Star is a weaker character and I don’t know if I like her that much. Not much time is spent on their relationship at the beginning of the book. Phoenix seems to believe he’s deeply in love with Star — and that she loves him too — but they seem to be together out of convenience to me. There are only seven families — twenty-four people in all — left in Dark DC, and most of them are adults. I hope Phoenix and Star don’t end up together at the end of the trilogy, but if they do I can’t say I wasn’t warned in advance.
Right now, my pick for Phoenix would be Elektra. After Phoenix, Elektra is probably my favorite character. They’re thrown together, along with another boy named Tinder, as roommates in America. (Most dystopians give their characters unusual names with no explanation. Blackout actually gives that information: DZs all have names that symbolize light and warmth — Flint, Spark, Wick, Aura, and Burn.) Elektra is a Shadow, one of the mysterious elite DZs who are the best hunters and fighters and are rarely seen by the rest of the DZs. She’s strong, smart, and a fast-thinker, but there are hints that her life as a Shadow is not easy.
I like Tinder, too. At first meeting, he seems timid and weak. He is physically weak — skinny, with knobby knees — but I think there’s a quiet strength to him. He stands up for himself when he needs to. I think he will end up being an asset to Phoenix as the trilogy moves along. I hope Phoenix learns to rely more on Elektra and Tinder and to dwell less on what he thinks Star might be doing.
Blackout is pretty short, but a lot happens in those 182 pages. I hate being so vague, but I really can’t talk about the plot without giving away spoilers. The ending brings a lot of information all at once and of course it ends with a cliffhanger just as Phoenix is discovering what he and his companions are really in for. It made me wish I already had the next book to read. It’s not out yet…maybe soon?
May 9, 2015
I received an ARC of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Powerful and engaging. Blackout takes dystopia to a new level and gives the readers a story reminiscent of Kiera Cass's The Selection (but with more blood). This is one new series to watch out for.
Imagine a day without electricity. No lights. No gadgets. No machines. No electronics. No heat. Unthinkable, right? Welcome to Phoenix Troublefield's life. Except it's a thousand times worse because he's been living in darkness ALL HIS LIFE. And no daylight either because the solar flare that caused the worldwide Blackout sixty-seven years ago also left the sky covered with jet-black clouds, plunging the world into perpetual darkness. Life basically sucks in the Dark Zone, so what do you do? Here's what: You survive.
And that's what I like best about the main character, Phoenix. He's a survivor. He's not a character you get to like at first sight. He's angry and rough but he does what he needs to survive. And he's damn good at it. He doesn't only provide for his own family, but for his girlfriend's, too. Speaking of Star, I think she's one hell of a liability for Phoenix. She's too soft and doesn't have the sense of self-preservation needed to survive in the Dark Zone. I don't think she could've survived without Phoenix.
But wait til you see them on the other side of the Frontier. The Carnival changed these characters into something more. I love the character development. Phoenix meets new people and I think it helped change the way he sees things. Star's change is astounding. The kind and timid girl transformed into an aggressive player who will do what it takes to win The Carnival and provide electricity for her family.
The other characters are worth mentioning, too. Elektra and Tinder are actually my favorite characters although they're totally opposites. Elektra is feisty and smart and cool, while I admire Tinder's innocence and sincerity.
I also liked the world-building. The Dark Zone is as grim as it gets, while in the other side of the Frontier, people are practically wasting electricity. I like this contrast between the two settings and how the characters acted in both. I also think The Carnival is a very unique contest to be in. Honestly, when I read that the chosen DZs will compete in a game, I thought, "Oh no, not another Hunger Games." Good thing, it's very different from THG, but still a really good dystopian tale.
The twists and turns are also unexpected and will put you on the edge of your seats. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, too. But it's not a cliffhanger that will frustrate you but one that will carry you on until the next book. Practically screaming for book two here!
Powerful and engaging. Blackout takes dystopia to a new level and gives the readers a story reminiscent of Kiera Cass's The Selection (but with more blood). This is one new series to watch out for.
Imagine a day without electricity. No lights. No gadgets. No machines. No electronics. No heat. Unthinkable, right? Welcome to Phoenix Troublefield's life. Except it's a thousand times worse because he's been living in darkness ALL HIS LIFE. And no daylight either because the solar flare that caused the worldwide Blackout sixty-seven years ago also left the sky covered with jet-black clouds, plunging the world into perpetual darkness. Life basically sucks in the Dark Zone, so what do you do? Here's what: You survive.
And that's what I like best about the main character, Phoenix. He's a survivor. He's not a character you get to like at first sight. He's angry and rough but he does what he needs to survive. And he's damn good at it. He doesn't only provide for his own family, but for his girlfriend's, too. Speaking of Star, I think she's one hell of a liability for Phoenix. She's too soft and doesn't have the sense of self-preservation needed to survive in the Dark Zone. I don't think she could've survived without Phoenix.
But wait til you see them on the other side of the Frontier. The Carnival changed these characters into something more. I love the character development. Phoenix meets new people and I think it helped change the way he sees things. Star's change is astounding. The kind and timid girl transformed into an aggressive player who will do what it takes to win The Carnival and provide electricity for her family.
The other characters are worth mentioning, too. Elektra and Tinder are actually my favorite characters although they're totally opposites. Elektra is feisty and smart and cool, while I admire Tinder's innocence and sincerity.
I also liked the world-building. The Dark Zone is as grim as it gets, while in the other side of the Frontier, people are practically wasting electricity. I like this contrast between the two settings and how the characters acted in both. I also think The Carnival is a very unique contest to be in. Honestly, when I read that the chosen DZs will compete in a game, I thought, "Oh no, not another Hunger Games." Good thing, it's very different from THG, but still a really good dystopian tale.
The twists and turns are also unexpected and will put you on the edge of your seats. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, too. But it's not a cliffhanger that will frustrate you but one that will carry you on until the next book. Practically screaming for book two here!
September 7, 2015
The United States is a divided country -- literally -- since a solar firestorm plunged the world into a never-ending, cold, gray wasteland. Well, everywhere on the Dark Zone side of the wall that now bisects the nation, anyway. That includes a decimated Washington D.C., where most of the opening action in this arresting YA dystopian tale begins.
Unlikely young hero Phoenix Troublefield and his girlfriend Star Windsong are making a life for themselves and the eight remaining families who still live inside the Beltway, but that life is a hard one, with no light, no heat and very little in the way of hope -- until one day, the mysterious people on the northern side of the wall offer a bizarre exchange. They will restore electricity to families that are willing to sacrifice one family member each to the Frontmen who stand silent sentinel on the wall.
The exchange will mean new life for the parents and siblings of Star and Phoenix. So, in spite of qualms about their uncertain future, they climb into hulking black cruisers one bleak morning and set off for New York City, the site of a competition known to them only as "The Carnival."
Object of the games is clear. Phoenix and Star must set aside their love for each other -- at least temporarily - and compete instead for the love of one of the privileged sons and daughters of the hated and feared ruling families of the North. If they win, all will be well, and their own families will get to keep their newly acquired electricity. If they fail, their families will go back to a bleak existence, and Star and Phoenix will face isolation and hardship, stranded in the North.
The games begin and Star and Phoenix find themselves suddenly at odds with each other. Jealousy on Phoenix's part threatens to drive a wedge between them. But all is forgiven as each one gets down to the serious business of convincing everyone they're REALLY in love with their prospective mates offered by the games' creators.
The competition continues in deadly earnest, with Phoenix's teammates Elektra and Tinder joining in to ensure they all succeed. Text message updates are beamed nationwide as throngs of fans follow the unfolding action.
Does Phoenix finally unite with his own true love, Star? Or does The Carnival ultimately wreck their blissful hopes and dreams?
This well-wrought tale of a future where youth is both celebrated and exploited makes for a diverting read, with many fine characters made memorable by a deft and marvelously restrained authorial hand.
I give Blackout five stars and join other reviewers in looking forward to Book Two in this trilogy.
Unlikely young hero Phoenix Troublefield and his girlfriend Star Windsong are making a life for themselves and the eight remaining families who still live inside the Beltway, but that life is a hard one, with no light, no heat and very little in the way of hope -- until one day, the mysterious people on the northern side of the wall offer a bizarre exchange. They will restore electricity to families that are willing to sacrifice one family member each to the Frontmen who stand silent sentinel on the wall.
The exchange will mean new life for the parents and siblings of Star and Phoenix. So, in spite of qualms about their uncertain future, they climb into hulking black cruisers one bleak morning and set off for New York City, the site of a competition known to them only as "The Carnival."
Object of the games is clear. Phoenix and Star must set aside their love for each other -- at least temporarily - and compete instead for the love of one of the privileged sons and daughters of the hated and feared ruling families of the North. If they win, all will be well, and their own families will get to keep their newly acquired electricity. If they fail, their families will go back to a bleak existence, and Star and Phoenix will face isolation and hardship, stranded in the North.
The games begin and Star and Phoenix find themselves suddenly at odds with each other. Jealousy on Phoenix's part threatens to drive a wedge between them. But all is forgiven as each one gets down to the serious business of convincing everyone they're REALLY in love with their prospective mates offered by the games' creators.
The competition continues in deadly earnest, with Phoenix's teammates Elektra and Tinder joining in to ensure they all succeed. Text message updates are beamed nationwide as throngs of fans follow the unfolding action.
Does Phoenix finally unite with his own true love, Star? Or does The Carnival ultimately wreck their blissful hopes and dreams?
This well-wrought tale of a future where youth is both celebrated and exploited makes for a diverting read, with many fine characters made memorable by a deft and marvelously restrained authorial hand.
I give Blackout five stars and join other reviewers in looking forward to Book Two in this trilogy.
September 10, 2014
Blackout is a young adult dystopian novel.
Henry has created a cohesive and elaborate world. A solar flare fried all the electricity, the sun went dead, and America is divided down the middle by a giant wall. The ‘Easies’ live in the north and have regained electricity. The DZ’s live without power in the south. Phoenix and Star live in the Dark Zone, until they are taken across The Frontier in exchange for electricity for their families. Once there they discover they are contestants in something called The Carnival where they compete to marry one of four sons or daughters of the ruling families.
Contestants are instant celebrities and the whole thing is reminiscent of the Hunger Games; but at the same time nothing like it. The organisation of The Carnival and events was very well thought out and I loved waiting to see what kind of strange things they would be doing next in order to ‘find love’.
Of course the competition puts strain on the relationship between Pheonix and Star. I had some trouble believing their interactions and arguments and this is possibly because their characterisation was a little two-dimensional. I feel like Phoenix spent a lot of time talking about what Star was like as a person or underlining what she was doing as a ‘typical Star’ thing to do. Rather than just letting the readers draw their own conclusions. I can’t put my finger on what felt off with those two, but that might be just me.
The plot is engaging and the prose is mostly well written. The prologue however, is too long and unnecessary. Most of the information told in there could be shown in the first few chapters with some tweaking. The opening chapters in the Dark Zone drag on a little long but the plot really picks up about 25% through the book.
Once Pheonix crossed The Frontier and began the Carnival I couldn’t put the book down. You get new characters, new technology and new and exciting environments. I loved the Carnival way of notifying contestants of upcoming events via their phones with only 15minutes warning. It’s a great plot device to keep the reader guessing and to avoid large chunks of exposition.
The ending was a pretty big cliff-hanger, more questions were raised than answered but if you have the next in the series sitting there to start straight away then no problem. Overall this was a very enjoyable book.
I received this book free of charge from the author in return for an honest review
Henry has created a cohesive and elaborate world. A solar flare fried all the electricity, the sun went dead, and America is divided down the middle by a giant wall. The ‘Easies’ live in the north and have regained electricity. The DZ’s live without power in the south. Phoenix and Star live in the Dark Zone, until they are taken across The Frontier in exchange for electricity for their families. Once there they discover they are contestants in something called The Carnival where they compete to marry one of four sons or daughters of the ruling families.
Contestants are instant celebrities and the whole thing is reminiscent of the Hunger Games; but at the same time nothing like it. The organisation of The Carnival and events was very well thought out and I loved waiting to see what kind of strange things they would be doing next in order to ‘find love’.
Of course the competition puts strain on the relationship between Pheonix and Star. I had some trouble believing their interactions and arguments and this is possibly because their characterisation was a little two-dimensional. I feel like Phoenix spent a lot of time talking about what Star was like as a person or underlining what she was doing as a ‘typical Star’ thing to do. Rather than just letting the readers draw their own conclusions. I can’t put my finger on what felt off with those two, but that might be just me.
The plot is engaging and the prose is mostly well written. The prologue however, is too long and unnecessary. Most of the information told in there could be shown in the first few chapters with some tweaking. The opening chapters in the Dark Zone drag on a little long but the plot really picks up about 25% through the book.
Once Pheonix crossed The Frontier and began the Carnival I couldn’t put the book down. You get new characters, new technology and new and exciting environments. I loved the Carnival way of notifying contestants of upcoming events via their phones with only 15minutes warning. It’s a great plot device to keep the reader guessing and to avoid large chunks of exposition.
The ending was a pretty big cliff-hanger, more questions were raised than answered but if you have the next in the series sitting there to start straight away then no problem. Overall this was a very enjoyable book.
I received this book free of charge from the author in return for an honest review
July 2, 2014
Actual Rating: 3.5
This review was also posted on Rebook424 - Cassidie's Reviews
First Impression...
The very first thing I noticed was that how bloody descriptive it was. It literally depicted every single breath-taking, every single movement. (Thanks for letting me know how to eat an apple, by the way.) For the most part, the conversations were also only narrated.
Delving into it...
Later on, it got a tad bit less descriptive, or it's only that I got used to it, or maybe the dialogues made it less monotone, but at any rates, the worry I felt that I might get bored to death on the descriptions evaporated soon enough and I found myself being eager to read on. I put down it mostly to the plot, which was fast-paced and action-packed and intrigued me quite a lot. There were some twists that surprised me, however, the biggest one was just before the book's end. I believe, that is where the story really starts, where things get very juicy.
As for the characters, in this first installment, I haven't especially grown close to any of them. I have opinions, and who I like or dislike, but I need to learn a little more about them, to get to know them some more. Or rather, it's that I got to know them too much. I mean, they are not much of a mystery so far.
About everything else, there are some similarities with The Hunger Games (huge, luxury building to stay at during the “game”), and with The Maze Runner (sun flares, plagues, separation, experiment, etc.) Just to make it clear beforehand, I do not accuse anybody with anything. I merely point out a few things that you undoubtedly will notice, too, and it's better to clarify it sooner than later, isn't it? Of course. So let's get down to the point. I don't know how much was it on purpose or not, but I do believe all three have a place on the market. They are definitely different, and think about it. It's pretty logical that sun flares would inflict plagues in a dark and dangerous world and also that they'd try to stop it which implies experiments.
Bottom-line: I think the story and the background are still in need of a little polishing, but the series is promising and I'm looking forward to pick up the next book. - See more at: http://rebook424.blogspot.hu/2014/06/...
This review was also posted on Rebook424 - Cassidie's Reviews
First Impression...
The very first thing I noticed was that how bloody descriptive it was. It literally depicted every single breath-taking, every single movement. (Thanks for letting me know how to eat an apple, by the way.) For the most part, the conversations were also only narrated.
Delving into it...
Later on, it got a tad bit less descriptive, or it's only that I got used to it, or maybe the dialogues made it less monotone, but at any rates, the worry I felt that I might get bored to death on the descriptions evaporated soon enough and I found myself being eager to read on. I put down it mostly to the plot, which was fast-paced and action-packed and intrigued me quite a lot. There were some twists that surprised me, however, the biggest one was just before the book's end. I believe, that is where the story really starts, where things get very juicy.
As for the characters, in this first installment, I haven't especially grown close to any of them. I have opinions, and who I like or dislike, but I need to learn a little more about them, to get to know them some more. Or rather, it's that I got to know them too much. I mean, they are not much of a mystery so far.
About everything else, there are some similarities with The Hunger Games (huge, luxury building to stay at during the “game”), and with The Maze Runner (sun flares, plagues, separation, experiment, etc.) Just to make it clear beforehand, I do not accuse anybody with anything. I merely point out a few things that you undoubtedly will notice, too, and it's better to clarify it sooner than later, isn't it? Of course. So let's get down to the point. I don't know how much was it on purpose or not, but I do believe all three have a place on the market. They are definitely different, and think about it. It's pretty logical that sun flares would inflict plagues in a dark and dangerous world and also that they'd try to stop it which implies experiments.
Bottom-line: I think the story and the background are still in need of a little polishing, but the series is promising and I'm looking forward to pick up the next book. - See more at: http://rebook424.blogspot.hu/2014/06/...
June 21, 2014
First let me say I love the cover of the book it is dark and makes you wonder truly what is the book about. Well we learn that the world just all of a sudden went dark. And it has been that way for years. Those that were born in the darkness have never seen light, truly. You have the Northern part of the United States which the Dark Zone (those that have no electricity) has called the Frontier or the Easies and they have electricity but how? With Blackout, we follow Phoenix and his long time best friend and girlfriend who he totally is in love with Star.
When Phoenix and Star make their rounds to visit those that live in the community they stubble across something that makes Star make a decision that will help her family. Especially her little brother and I have to say Star tugged on my hearts strings with that move. She was very selfless. And Phoenix well he can not be without Star so he joins her.
But when they go to the Frontier it is not as quite what they expected, they have to join in on a game. Which at first I was like oh no please don't let this be like the Hunger Games. Which it is far from. Yes everyone is competing for a prize but if you don't win you don't die, no you have something much worse happen to you. The prize that everyone competes for is True Love. But is not what you think. There is something here that makes you wonder what is the true intentions of this contest.
There are secrets within the walls of the Frontier. And I want to find out just as much as Phoenix what is this all about. The ending left me with questions that I can't wait for them to be answered. Blackout is a great dystopian book that will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen now. The characters are well written, especially Phoenix.
When Phoenix and Star make their rounds to visit those that live in the community they stubble across something that makes Star make a decision that will help her family. Especially her little brother and I have to say Star tugged on my hearts strings with that move. She was very selfless. And Phoenix well he can not be without Star so he joins her.
But when they go to the Frontier it is not as quite what they expected, they have to join in on a game. Which at first I was like oh no please don't let this be like the Hunger Games. Which it is far from. Yes everyone is competing for a prize but if you don't win you don't die, no you have something much worse happen to you. The prize that everyone competes for is True Love. But is not what you think. There is something here that makes you wonder what is the true intentions of this contest.
There are secrets within the walls of the Frontier. And I want to find out just as much as Phoenix what is this all about. The ending left me with questions that I can't wait for them to be answered. Blackout is a great dystopian book that will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen now. The characters are well written, especially Phoenix.
June 23, 2014
Blackout almost reminded me of the hunger games a little bit, except the point of the competition was to find true love, and in turn give your family electricity.
In 2015, Earth was hit with a solar flare that knocked out all of the electricity on the planet. The United States was able to bring enough scientists together to get some electricity back, but they could not power the whole country, only a part of it. This created the Dark Zone.
Families were left here to fend for themselves in the darkness with no power.
When Star and Phoenix’s families hear about a trade-off of sending a child to America in exchange for power, they both agree to go. They don’t know what they are in for on the other side, but they want the best for their families.
Little do they know, they are in the fight for their lives. Are they only battling for power? Or is there much more at stake?
The characters were generally likable and the writing was done really well. It was a very intriguing story, which made it hard to put down. It seemed as though the reader is always learning something new.
Phoenix was a bit too whiney for me. Every time something happened involving star, I imagined him throwing a hissy fit like a little child. It seemed like he was too caught up in his emotions and it was crippling his chances of survival.
Even though Star was a big part of the story, she didn’t make as many appearances and didn’t really seem relevant in them. She mostly lived in the story through Phoenix’s thoughts.
Overall, I enjoy the idea of the story. I liked the supporting characters more than I liked Phoenix. I can’t wait to see what happens next. It left off on such a cliffhanger!
This looks to be a really promising book series.
4/5 Stars
In 2015, Earth was hit with a solar flare that knocked out all of the electricity on the planet. The United States was able to bring enough scientists together to get some electricity back, but they could not power the whole country, only a part of it. This created the Dark Zone.
Families were left here to fend for themselves in the darkness with no power.
When Star and Phoenix’s families hear about a trade-off of sending a child to America in exchange for power, they both agree to go. They don’t know what they are in for on the other side, but they want the best for their families.
Little do they know, they are in the fight for their lives. Are they only battling for power? Or is there much more at stake?
The characters were generally likable and the writing was done really well. It was a very intriguing story, which made it hard to put down. It seemed as though the reader is always learning something new.
Phoenix was a bit too whiney for me. Every time something happened involving star, I imagined him throwing a hissy fit like a little child. It seemed like he was too caught up in his emotions and it was crippling his chances of survival.
Even though Star was a big part of the story, she didn’t make as many appearances and didn’t really seem relevant in them. She mostly lived in the story through Phoenix’s thoughts.
Overall, I enjoy the idea of the story. I liked the supporting characters more than I liked Phoenix. I can’t wait to see what happens next. It left off on such a cliffhanger!
This looks to be a really promising book series.
4/5 Stars
June 21, 2014
Blackout" by Madeleine Henry is a superbly written dystopian novel, full of action, suspense, romance and adventure.
The story begins after the world is plunged into darkness and America is divided by a concrete wall (the Frontier). The northern part of the nation above the wall has electricity, the bottom part below the Frontier does not. The lives of those without electricity in the Dark Zone is harsh, dangerous and barely above existing for most of the inhabitants in the region. The lives of those with electricity is much easier (thus the term, "Easies" used to describe them).
The main character, Phoenix, and his girlfriend, Star are selected along with several other teenagers to be allowed into America. In exchange for this, their families are given electricity and Star hopes it will be the answer to her younger brother's chronic illness.
Once in America, Phoenix and Star are thrown into a contest given by the richest families in the country. At first glance, the intentions of the families appear to be genuinely altruistic and the teens quickly adapt to the lifestyle. However, during the course of the contest, secrets are revealed that shake Phoenix to his core and make him question the true reasons for the contest.
"Blackout" was an easy read and it kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire story. Ms. Henry has delivered a great story with a wonderfully thought out plot. I loved the ending and am looking forward to the sequel.
I would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy books such as The Hunger Games and other young adult dystopian, post-apocalyptic type novels.
Comment
The story begins after the world is plunged into darkness and America is divided by a concrete wall (the Frontier). The northern part of the nation above the wall has electricity, the bottom part below the Frontier does not. The lives of those without electricity in the Dark Zone is harsh, dangerous and barely above existing for most of the inhabitants in the region. The lives of those with electricity is much easier (thus the term, "Easies" used to describe them).
The main character, Phoenix, and his girlfriend, Star are selected along with several other teenagers to be allowed into America. In exchange for this, their families are given electricity and Star hopes it will be the answer to her younger brother's chronic illness.
Once in America, Phoenix and Star are thrown into a contest given by the richest families in the country. At first glance, the intentions of the families appear to be genuinely altruistic and the teens quickly adapt to the lifestyle. However, during the course of the contest, secrets are revealed that shake Phoenix to his core and make him question the true reasons for the contest.
"Blackout" was an easy read and it kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire story. Ms. Henry has delivered a great story with a wonderfully thought out plot. I loved the ending and am looking forward to the sequel.
I would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy books such as The Hunger Games and other young adult dystopian, post-apocalyptic type novels.
Comment
July 4, 2014
Blackout, a dystopian novel of romance. It is a quick read that I have rated at THREE STARS. Once I began reading, it was clear that this was going to be a good book. One that I would devour within a day or two. And devour it I did.
You read through the novel as Phoenix, a DZ from Dark DC. He goes on to explain the world around him, and just how it came to be that way. Phoenix seems to have only one purpose in the Dark Zone, Star, his Starlight. Their romance is already in place when you begin the story. They already only have eyes for each other. But throughout the pages, somehow (and I know how because I have read the novel) they end up being torn apart, and made to play a different game. A game invented by the Easies.
I found that the novel was well written. It is a present tense first person narrative. Normally, most books are past tense so I found this novel refreshing. I found that the main character was really well written. However, there were some inconsistencies throughout the pages.
I loved the story, so why have I rated it as a three star read? Because I found that it was too close to The Hunger Games for my liking. Yes, the book differs in many ways, but the similarities are there. However, that being said, I still want to get my hands on the second book in this series because I can already tell that it WILL differ from The Hunger Games.
I would recommend this novel to the YA readers out there, the dystopia readers out there, and of course, the romance readers.
You read through the novel as Phoenix, a DZ from Dark DC. He goes on to explain the world around him, and just how it came to be that way. Phoenix seems to have only one purpose in the Dark Zone, Star, his Starlight. Their romance is already in place when you begin the story. They already only have eyes for each other. But throughout the pages, somehow (and I know how because I have read the novel) they end up being torn apart, and made to play a different game. A game invented by the Easies.
I found that the novel was well written. It is a present tense first person narrative. Normally, most books are past tense so I found this novel refreshing. I found that the main character was really well written. However, there were some inconsistencies throughout the pages.
I loved the story, so why have I rated it as a three star read? Because I found that it was too close to The Hunger Games for my liking. Yes, the book differs in many ways, but the similarities are there. However, that being said, I still want to get my hands on the second book in this series because I can already tell that it WILL differ from The Hunger Games.
I would recommend this novel to the YA readers out there, the dystopia readers out there, and of course, the romance readers.
August 30, 2014
It's a post-apocalyptic world where the US has been divided into two sections: the inside (the "Easies" with electricity and plenty) and the outside (the "Dark Zoners", who barely survive in the ruins).
Some of the DZs are culled to play in the games for the entertainments in the masses. But instead of killing each other in a giant arena, they compete for the love of the eligible children of the leaders. Think Hunger Games meets The Bachelor. Not your cup of tea? Mine neither. It was interesting but the teen drama don't really excite me and I disliked how emotions were toyed with especially as a girlfriend/boyfriend each end up competing for the love of one of the "prizes" and hurting each other in the process.
The writing was okay, but some of the "details" were quite scattered. In the first chapter we are told a solar flare hit earth and completely destroyed all electronics (yet we find he is familiar with cell phones and computers 60 years later). The sun doesn't come up for some reason (how would a solar flare do that?). The boy at one point is casing the area for "useful" things and thinks to himself that the glass table could be broken up to make arrowheads (and yet earlier we found he carried a rifle and ammunition must be plentiful since he'd been taking pot-shots at yellow-bellied sapsuckers). I would think an editor or good proof-reader would question/catch things like that.
Verdict: Too much like Hunger Games, too much teen angst, too much dating.
Some of the DZs are culled to play in the games for the entertainments in the masses. But instead of killing each other in a giant arena, they compete for the love of the eligible children of the leaders. Think Hunger Games meets The Bachelor. Not your cup of tea? Mine neither. It was interesting but the teen drama don't really excite me and I disliked how emotions were toyed with especially as a girlfriend/boyfriend each end up competing for the love of one of the "prizes" and hurting each other in the process.
The writing was okay, but some of the "details" were quite scattered. In the first chapter we are told a solar flare hit earth and completely destroyed all electronics (yet we find he is familiar with cell phones and computers 60 years later). The sun doesn't come up for some reason (how would a solar flare do that?). The boy at one point is casing the area for "useful" things and thinks to himself that the glass table could be broken up to make arrowheads (and yet earlier we found he carried a rifle and ammunition must be plentiful since he'd been taking pot-shots at yellow-bellied sapsuckers). I would think an editor or good proof-reader would question/catch things like that.
Verdict: Too much like Hunger Games, too much teen angst, too much dating.
June 21, 2014
Blackout meshes love and hope with the twisted reality of greed and dystopia. What lengths would you go to for the one you love? Once I started, I didn’t want to put it down. Each chapter brought a new twist that kept me guessing until then end, and then I wanted more.
Phoenix and Star are the main characters, but the world—and subsequent characters– is shown through the eyes of Phoenix. We narrow in on his world and see a survivor, but a young man who puts the needs of others before his own. He’s not perfect. None of the DZ’s come close to perfection, but he tries hard to make his family proud.
All of this abruptly changes when he arrives at the Carnival. Each step he takes changes him, and as heartbreaking as some of those changes were, I enjoyed watching Phoenix grow. He’s a teenager having to make grown-up decisions most of his life, but now the stakes are even higher.
Star … okay there were times I felt empathy for her situation. She did a brave thing, and nothing she does is out of character, but sometimes I did want to slap and scream at her. I’m a romantic at heart, and I did understand her actions, but … yeah … I still wanted to whop her upside the head but I believe this conflict was intentional too. Can't wait for the next book.
Phoenix and Star are the main characters, but the world—and subsequent characters– is shown through the eyes of Phoenix. We narrow in on his world and see a survivor, but a young man who puts the needs of others before his own. He’s not perfect. None of the DZ’s come close to perfection, but he tries hard to make his family proud.
All of this abruptly changes when he arrives at the Carnival. Each step he takes changes him, and as heartbreaking as some of those changes were, I enjoyed watching Phoenix grow. He’s a teenager having to make grown-up decisions most of his life, but now the stakes are even higher.
Star … okay there were times I felt empathy for her situation. She did a brave thing, and nothing she does is out of character, but sometimes I did want to slap and scream at her. I’m a romantic at heart, and I did understand her actions, but … yeah … I still wanted to whop her upside the head but I believe this conflict was intentional too. Can't wait for the next book.
June 28, 2014
Move over Hunger Games and Divergent, there is a new kid on the block and it promises to keep the interest level at an all time high.
Time is spent developing the early storyline so you really know what life in the Dark Zone is like. Then you find out about The Carnival - a game provided by the Frontier ( the area with heat and electricity separated from the DZ by a huge wall) where DZ people are given a chance to win electricity for their families by winning the hand of one of four candidates in marriage.
But things aren't really as they seem in the Frontier and Star and Phoenix find themselves facing more danger than they have ever faced before. Can their love endure circumstances that might make them choose to marry someone else and more importantly will they be able to face the coming darkness?
This book was terrific. I loved every minute of it and actually groaned when the end finally came. It was stimulating and exciting and had a great storyline. I would definitely recommend it to YA and NA readers as well as anyone who is just looking for a really good book to read. I even recommended it to my 70+ year old father.
* I received a copy of this book in return for my honest and frank review *
Time is spent developing the early storyline so you really know what life in the Dark Zone is like. Then you find out about The Carnival - a game provided by the Frontier ( the area with heat and electricity separated from the DZ by a huge wall) where DZ people are given a chance to win electricity for their families by winning the hand of one of four candidates in marriage.
But things aren't really as they seem in the Frontier and Star and Phoenix find themselves facing more danger than they have ever faced before. Can their love endure circumstances that might make them choose to marry someone else and more importantly will they be able to face the coming darkness?
This book was terrific. I loved every minute of it and actually groaned when the end finally came. It was stimulating and exciting and had a great storyline. I would definitely recommend it to YA and NA readers as well as anyone who is just looking for a really good book to read. I even recommended it to my 70+ year old father.
* I received a copy of this book in return for my honest and frank review *
July 15, 2014
DNF at 33%
Some spoilers up until the 33% mark.
Well the story was interesting until it turned into a darker version of The Bachelor.
Phoenix is our narrator and he's completely smitten with Star and will do anything for her. Their relationship is cute and they're pretty much all that they have, especially on their side of the wall.
However, when talks of a game came up, I was thinking more along the lines of The Hunger Games or The Testing, but to my utter disappointment, it was nothing like that. Instead, it was a game to fall in love...like seriously? I literally had to put the book down at this point and accept it as a loss. I hate a lot of reality television and this is what this book becomes. Sure, at the start people start shooting but the whole premise really made this book crash and burn.
If you enjoy the Bachelor and reality TV about finding love, take a look at this. If not, don't even bother.
Some spoilers up until the 33% mark.
Well the story was interesting until it turned into a darker version of The Bachelor.
Phoenix is our narrator and he's completely smitten with Star and will do anything for her. Their relationship is cute and they're pretty much all that they have, especially on their side of the wall.
However, when talks of a game came up, I was thinking more along the lines of The Hunger Games or The Testing, but to my utter disappointment, it was nothing like that. Instead, it was a game to fall in love...like seriously? I literally had to put the book down at this point and accept it as a loss. I hate a lot of reality television and this is what this book becomes. Sure, at the start people start shooting but the whole premise really made this book crash and burn.
If you enjoy the Bachelor and reality TV about finding love, take a look at this. If not, don't even bother.
August 22, 2014
Saw this book on Kindle unlimited and started reading it. And I was hooked. This book is shorter than most so the story was fast paced and really fun to read. I instantly fell in love with the main character, Phoenix. I liked his girlfriend, Star, too. Phoenix says that Star's gift is to make everyone fall on love with her and by the end of the book, I wondered if that meant the same as her being very manipulative. And I thought it would be totally fantastic and surprising if she isn't at all what we thought of her as. But I really liked Elektra who is in the same suite as Phoenix. She came off as a snob at first but I ended up liking her a lot. Her personality and she was able to help Phoenix control his anger much better. At some point, I thought the author was trying to copy the hunger games but it turned out to be very different. I can't wait to read the next one and find out what is going on with this disease in America! :)
January 7, 2015
I can't decide if I should give this book two or three stars because this is one of those books that is actually extremely enjoyable if you can get your brain to shut the hell up.
I could spend pages discussing all the problems I found with this book in the fields of logic, setting, science, character development, general inconsistency, or just about anything else, but I think my biggest problem with it is that it's the freaking Bachelor.
All that being said, the author has an enjoyable style I just feel like she needs a friend who isn't a yes man to provide realistic and thoughtful insight into her writing. Someone who isn't afraid to point out inconsistencies. Despite this, the book is very enjoyable if you can look passed all of it. I plowed through the remaining 25-30% in one sleepless night because my mind was happy to be focusing on something else so it can't have been all bad.
I could spend pages discussing all the problems I found with this book in the fields of logic, setting, science, character development, general inconsistency, or just about anything else, but I think my biggest problem with it is that it's the freaking Bachelor.
All that being said, the author has an enjoyable style I just feel like she needs a friend who isn't a yes man to provide realistic and thoughtful insight into her writing. Someone who isn't afraid to point out inconsistencies. Despite this, the book is very enjoyable if you can look passed all of it. I plowed through the remaining 25-30% in one sleepless night because my mind was happy to be focusing on something else so it can't have been all bad.
July 21, 2014
Similar theme to the common young adult stories that are out there right now. Phoenix, the main character, makes too many sudden decisions without thinking that you just get annoyed with him. He gets a little over dramatic at times. For a while, I kept thinking that I probably won't read the 2nd book. But then the twist at the ending definitely has me a bit curious about where the story will lead from there. So maybe I will read the next book! ;)
June 28, 2015
Free book given for honest review.
A good solid story line and detailed world building makes this a book to add to your summer reading list.
I found it difficult to identify with Star, at least the way Phoenix sees her and I wish that the story had been told using alternating POV’s which would have allowed the reader to get inside her mind.
A good solid story line and detailed world building makes this a book to add to your summer reading list.
I found it difficult to identify with Star, at least the way Phoenix sees her and I wish that the story had been told using alternating POV’s which would have allowed the reader to get inside her mind.
September 17, 2014
This book, pised me off. But I enjoyed it enough to start the hunt for the next book.
I read the whole thing start to finish in about an hour and a half and it felt like...an excerpt. Nothing about it feels like a book.. the storyline is good, it sucks you in, but it seems thrown together and I'm fairly sure the entire trilogy should be one book. Why the hell they broke it up is beyond me.
I read the whole thing start to finish in about an hour and a half and it felt like...an excerpt. Nothing about it feels like a book.. the storyline is good, it sucks you in, but it seems thrown together and I'm fairly sure the entire trilogy should be one book. Why the hell they broke it up is beyond me.
August 14, 2016
Blackout is a surprisingly good dystopian novel. It's a bit Hunger Games-esque in some ways, but has a plot entirely of its own. Henry captures the angst and infatuation of teenagers surprisingly well, although sometimes the emotions are too overwhelming and unrealistic.
July 9, 2014
Keeps you wanting to read more. Defiantly a 5 star.
found myself wanting to. read faster to find out what will happen next. Will defiantly recommend this book. young adults will love it.
found myself wanting to. read faster to find out what will happen next. Will defiantly recommend this book. young adults will love it.
August 23, 2014
This was such a great read. I was hooked right off the bat. Great characters, great plot, and an excellent idea. I loved the idea of The Hunger Games meets a twisted version of The Bachelor. I'd recommend this book to anyone and I really can't wait for book two to come.
August 13, 2014
Different,but good.
Different,but good.
Different, but good. Hope it has a good ending. I hope Star and Phoenix some how end up together and back with there families and electricity.
Different,but good.
Different, but good. Hope it has a good ending. I hope Star and Phoenix some how end up together and back with there families and electricity.
February 20, 2015
I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to the next book. It combines tech and romance and drama and action in one book. It is a must read and i would definitely recommend this book to my friends.
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