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Blue
The demand was growing too quickly.
The beliefs of healers convinced of their supernatural medicinal properties fueled a thriving black market for the most grisly commodity to obtain--
the body parts of the colorless people.
After the murder and maiming of countless people afflicted with Albinism, the South African government realized that they had no choice but to intervene. Out of the desire to provide protection to even the poorest of the afflicted people, the Humane Harvest Compounds were established.
Fifteen years later, in a rapidly-changing post-Apartheid nation, two young women find themselves face-to-face with the walls that have surrounded them for as long as they can remember.
Anytha (a bright, college-bound, young thinker) begins second-guessing her loyalty to her family's life-long faith--the Practice of Blue--a thriving new religion whose doctrine is based on the "Law of the Land."
Tabitha, (a sweet, quiet, conspiracy theorist with Albinism who was sold to the Humane Harvest Compounds as a baby) finds herself dreaming about an unharvested life outside of the concrete walls.
Though they are living two completely different lives, Anytha and Tabitha are both found questioning the motives of those in power--setting their minds to look beyond their spotless reputations, good deeds, and popularity--unaware that what they discover may make them question everything that they believe about life itself.
The beliefs of healers convinced of their supernatural medicinal properties fueled a thriving black market for the most grisly commodity to obtain--
the body parts of the colorless people.
After the murder and maiming of countless people afflicted with Albinism, the South African government realized that they had no choice but to intervene. Out of the desire to provide protection to even the poorest of the afflicted people, the Humane Harvest Compounds were established.
Fifteen years later, in a rapidly-changing post-Apartheid nation, two young women find themselves face-to-face with the walls that have surrounded them for as long as they can remember.
Anytha (a bright, college-bound, young thinker) begins second-guessing her loyalty to her family's life-long faith--the Practice of Blue--a thriving new religion whose doctrine is based on the "Law of the Land."
Tabitha, (a sweet, quiet, conspiracy theorist with Albinism who was sold to the Humane Harvest Compounds as a baby) finds herself dreaming about an unharvested life outside of the concrete walls.
Though they are living two completely different lives, Anytha and Tabitha are both found questioning the motives of those in power--setting their minds to look beyond their spotless reputations, good deeds, and popularity--unaware that what they discover may make them question everything that they believe about life itself.
- GenresYoung AdultFiction
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2014
1 person is currently reading
621 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 8, 2014
I'm the author of this book, but I guess I can still review it. This is my first novel. My first ANYTHING really. But I am so proud to be able to call it my own. This book is so unique. There are very few books--none that I have found in my years of looking--that are anything like this book. I hope that my readers fall in love with my Anytha. My Tabitha. I hope they can almost feel themselves sitting in the shade of a Jacaranda as the buds fall all around them. I hope they can feel the story. Taste the words. I hope that the symbolism makes them grimace and churn. I hope they can't put it down, and I hope that when it's over their heart is still racing and their mind is overwhelmed. I hope this book will change the world. See you in book two, everyone.
July 6, 2014
When I received a request from Kasey Jackson to review her “allegorical pro-life suspense novel,” Blue, I was intrigued by the synopsis.
The book takes place in South Africa. Many are convinced of the healing powers of the body parts of those with Albinism. The demand grows quickly and countless people with Albinism are murdered and maimed. The government intervenes and the Humane Harvest Compounds are established. The government protects them, but at the same time, exploits them.
Fifteen years later, two girls find themselves face-to-face questioning the motives of those in power. Anytha is a bright college-bound thinker and begins second-guessing her loyalty to her family's life-long faith--the Practice of Blue–a new religion. Tabitha is a sweet girl with Albinism who was sold to the Humane Harvest Compounds as an infant. She daydreams about a normal life outside of the concrete walls.
The author warned me that I was reading a proof copy that included things that needed to be fixed (and I’m assuming the author has already corrected them) so I will focus on the quality of the characters and story. The main characters were well-defined and believable. The setting was interesting and descriptive. The story was compelling and entertaining. The message that all humans are irreplaceable and valuable regardless of their color (or lack thereof), gestational age or actual age shines through.
Highly recommend!
The book takes place in South Africa. Many are convinced of the healing powers of the body parts of those with Albinism. The demand grows quickly and countless people with Albinism are murdered and maimed. The government intervenes and the Humane Harvest Compounds are established. The government protects them, but at the same time, exploits them.
Fifteen years later, two girls find themselves face-to-face questioning the motives of those in power. Anytha is a bright college-bound thinker and begins second-guessing her loyalty to her family's life-long faith--the Practice of Blue–a new religion. Tabitha is a sweet girl with Albinism who was sold to the Humane Harvest Compounds as an infant. She daydreams about a normal life outside of the concrete walls.
The author warned me that I was reading a proof copy that included things that needed to be fixed (and I’m assuming the author has already corrected them) so I will focus on the quality of the characters and story. The main characters were well-defined and believable. The setting was interesting and descriptive. The story was compelling and entertaining. The message that all humans are irreplaceable and valuable regardless of their color (or lack thereof), gestational age or actual age shines through.
Highly recommend!
August 11, 2014
For more reviews & awesome giveaways, check out our blog !
We were offered a copy of the book for review by the author- thanks, Kasey!
Before I get started.... #thatcovertho! It's such a gorgeous cover. #coverporn ...scroll back up- I'll wait.
What a beautifully written book! This is one of those reads where you get so engrossed that it's hard to put it down. It's also the kind of book you really have to focus on so I recommend you don't read anything else while you're reading this one.
The characters are great. They were strong and well developed which makes it easy to connect with them. The weaving of the two stories was fantastic- it was a smooth transition every time.
One of the many things that I thought was unique to this book is that I kept looking stuff up as I read which was actually fun for me!
And my personal favorite discovery were the Jacaranda trees- YAAAAAS!!!! I love these trees!
I will admit- the first few chapters were hard for me to get into, I started this about 5 times- no lie, but I'm glad I pushed through and finally got invested.
All in all, this is a great read. Especially for those of you looking into something way different and thought provoking. Do keep in mind, it's a slow paced read but it's really wonderful! Can't wait to see what comes next, Kasey!
We were offered a copy of the book for review by the author- thanks, Kasey!
Before I get started.... #thatcovertho! It's such a gorgeous cover. #coverporn ...scroll back up- I'll wait.
What a beautifully written book! This is one of those reads where you get so engrossed that it's hard to put it down. It's also the kind of book you really have to focus on so I recommend you don't read anything else while you're reading this one.
The characters are great. They were strong and well developed which makes it easy to connect with them. The weaving of the two stories was fantastic- it was a smooth transition every time.
One of the many things that I thought was unique to this book is that I kept looking stuff up as I read which was actually fun for me!
And my personal favorite discovery were the Jacaranda trees- YAAAAAS!!!! I love these trees!
I will admit- the first few chapters were hard for me to get into, I started this about 5 times- no lie, but I'm glad I pushed through and finally got invested.
All in all, this is a great read. Especially for those of you looking into something way different and thought provoking. Do keep in mind, it's a slow paced read but it's really wonderful! Can't wait to see what comes next, Kasey!
July 9, 2014
The novel Blue is an incredible story about two young women who find themselves both living in South Africa during the mid 90's. Although each of them on very different paths, a series of seemingly unrelated event will forever change both their lives. Questions about who they are and what they believe. Will cause both young women to choose to stand apart from what they always believed to be true.
Get to know Anytha and Tabitha as they live their day to day lives.
Anytha will take you to thru the streets of Pretoria and just as she has, you will fall in love with the beautiful Jacaranda trees. As she prepares to go off to college and start her life, watch as Anytha struggles to break away from what her parents selfishly expect of her and what she discovers to be true.
Tabitha will show you the harsh reality of being born with the affliction of being colorless. Experience the internal struggle of being abandon for your own protection, questioning the true motives of your own mother. Just as new laws to the harvest are past Tabitha grows suspicious of those who are supposed to protect her. Her intuition just might save her life.
Kasey Jackson is able to narrate between both characters with such ease. Although Anytha and Tabitha are similar in many ways you will never question who's story you are reading.
Brace yourself for a page turner. You won't be able to put this book down. Kasey keeps you guessing with every turn. And the cliff hanger! I can't wait to find out what happens next.
Get to know Anytha and Tabitha as they live their day to day lives.
Anytha will take you to thru the streets of Pretoria and just as she has, you will fall in love with the beautiful Jacaranda trees. As she prepares to go off to college and start her life, watch as Anytha struggles to break away from what her parents selfishly expect of her and what she discovers to be true.
Tabitha will show you the harsh reality of being born with the affliction of being colorless. Experience the internal struggle of being abandon for your own protection, questioning the true motives of your own mother. Just as new laws to the harvest are past Tabitha grows suspicious of those who are supposed to protect her. Her intuition just might save her life.
Kasey Jackson is able to narrate between both characters with such ease. Although Anytha and Tabitha are similar in many ways you will never question who's story you are reading.
Brace yourself for a page turner. You won't be able to put this book down. Kasey keeps you guessing with every turn. And the cliff hanger! I can't wait to find out what happens next.
July 6, 2014
BLUE is under the genre title histopian,which is a cross between historical lit and dystopian lit. Many of the events that take place in this novel actually happened and some are pure fiction. This makes for a very unique read seeped in controversial issues, emotional taut relationships, and the author writes with such authenticity everything occurring in the novel seemed real, very real to me even the parts that were fiction. That is proof of a strong writer who is dedicated to her characters and the over all plot layout. If your looking for a thought provoking,emotionally seeped read with excellent female lead characters, and a charismatic cult leader who is totally messed up in the noggin, you'll definitely want to pick up a copy of this book. I highly recommend it to all my readers. (Pace wise: Blue reads at a slow but steady pace. By the end of the novel though you'll be grasping for answers and you will not be able to stop reading. Beware though, the ending definitely leaves you questioning)
July 22, 2014
When I began reading Blue, I was immediately trying to crack the uncertainties and mysteries that popped up in the story. I was intrigued and entertained and wanted to read more and more, but I couldn't crack the mystery, it wasn't predictable or obvious, and I loved that!
This book is written in a unique "Histopian" genre, which had me hitting up google to research more of the issues brought up in the story, to see if they actually existed, they story felt so real, I had to know. I also wrestled reading as to how I would respond in different character situations and it pushed me to look at justice and rights, in a whole new way.
Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend this book to friends and family. Excellent summer read. Can't wait to see more from this author.
This book is written in a unique "Histopian" genre, which had me hitting up google to research more of the issues brought up in the story, to see if they actually existed, they story felt so real, I had to know. I also wrestled reading as to how I would respond in different character situations and it pushed me to look at justice and rights, in a whole new way.
Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend this book to friends and family. Excellent summer read. Can't wait to see more from this author.
June 26, 2014
Kasey Jackson's debut novel, Blue, was a fabulous read. The engrossing characters draw you in and the continual plot twists keep you constantly turning the pages. The seamless weaving of the two stories and the exciting sequence of events will keep you from putting this book down. As the book finished, my first thoughts were, "Well... there MUST be a sequel!" I foresee this debut novel making an exciting, fresh twist in the world of the dystopia society genre.
June 9, 2014
Enter into a real-life, yet otherworldly realm in this story. Find yourself embarking on a thrilling journey that will leave you breathless. Expertly crafted, Blue tells a story that is both rare and beautiful, chilling and addicting. First time author or not, Kasey Jackson is excellent and talented in her first book, Blue. Here's to future books!
September 1, 2014
I really loved this book. Beyond taking place in South Africa, which I love, the plot itself was interesting, unique, and unexpected. Learning about true events along the way was a bonus. The characters became very real, the story provoked some deep thoughts, and this was definitely a worthy read. I hope it impacts many -- to see precious life in a new light.
June 26, 2014
I was fortunate enough to read the unpublished version of the this book...here are my thoughts on Blue.
I think the characters were well developed and interesting. The plot line is also well developed, and the story line intriguing; I wanted to stop reading several times to go Google things to see if they were actual or fiction.
I felt part 1 was slow to unfold with lots of foreshadowing; part 2 started off at a good pace with lots of potential, but was rushed near the end; and part 3 was completely rushed. I felt the way Anytha and Ari story played out a little fast with not enough deatils. There were several times I had to re-read some of the later chapters try and figure out what was going on. The ending unfolded rather quickly and I felt it was rushed. I think that is my biggest thing...it seemed so rushed. FYI: I think it would make a great series that way more time could be spent with the characters, and it would not seem rushed at the end.
Overall, for a first time author, I feel Kasey Jackson has shown tons potential within the pages of this book! Definitely an up and coming author to keep an eye on!
I think the characters were well developed and interesting. The plot line is also well developed, and the story line intriguing; I wanted to stop reading several times to go Google things to see if they were actual or fiction.
I felt part 1 was slow to unfold with lots of foreshadowing; part 2 started off at a good pace with lots of potential, but was rushed near the end; and part 3 was completely rushed. I felt the way Anytha and Ari story played out a little fast with not enough deatils. There were several times I had to re-read some of the later chapters try and figure out what was going on. The ending unfolded rather quickly and I felt it was rushed. I think that is my biggest thing...it seemed so rushed. FYI: I think it would make a great series that way more time could be spent with the characters, and it would not seem rushed at the end.
Overall, for a first time author, I feel Kasey Jackson has shown tons potential within the pages of this book! Definitely an up and coming author to keep an eye on!
August 14, 2014
I loved everything about this book from the gorgeous cover to the deeply engrossing characters, the book tells the story of two teens who are transitioning into adulthood.
However,they experience it from different view points. The first Anytha is brought up in a family who are avid members of blue.They attend a camp congregation often to listen to surmons and decrees which are given by the commissioner Inali.Inali is one of the most influential men in Blue and so plays a huge part in Anytha's life.
The second character in Tabitha, she was brought up behind the walls of a humane harvesting compound due to her affliction of albinism.During the book the two characters evolve and make discoveries about their current lives which leaves them questioning everything about the motives of those in charge. The characters are brought together as their journeys collide and entwine.
Overall this book was one of my favourite and will sit proudly on my bookshelf and it will be sure to be read again by both me and anyone I can persuade to do so.
However,they experience it from different view points. The first Anytha is brought up in a family who are avid members of blue.They attend a camp congregation often to listen to surmons and decrees which are given by the commissioner Inali.Inali is one of the most influential men in Blue and so plays a huge part in Anytha's life.
The second character in Tabitha, she was brought up behind the walls of a humane harvesting compound due to her affliction of albinism.During the book the two characters evolve and make discoveries about their current lives which leaves them questioning everything about the motives of those in charge. The characters are brought together as their journeys collide and entwine.
Overall this book was one of my favourite and will sit proudly on my bookshelf and it will be sure to be read again by both me and anyone I can persuade to do so.
June 11, 2014
Blue... Wow where can I even start? I am a lover of books, I have always been this way. I am an avid YA reader and I love a good murder/mystery. When I read Blue I could not put it down! Kasey Jackson's description of Anytha, Tabitha, and all the characters was so rich I swear I felt like I knew them. I could see the blooms of the Jacaranda tree. I felt their pain. This is a heart-racing-sweating-OMG what just happened kind of book! Right up there with Twilight, Divergent and even The Hunger Games! Blue had me at the first word to the last hanging on. Just when you THINK you had it all figured out bam... Twist! The deeper meaning to this book is what baffles me. You must read BLUE!!!
July 1, 2014
Wow, I'm so glad I got the chance to read this book! It's a fresh, thrilling, YA read and I'm sure everyone will love it. I could not put it down! Anytha and Tabitha live completely different lives but are often found in similar predicaments, the way they handle everything they were put through was completely believable. I do wish that we got to know the characters a little better because I felt like I couldn't really connect with them, but other than that I was literally on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. Blue was a stunning debut novel, and I really can't wait for the sequel!!
July 22, 2014
This was a great read! I was hooked from the very beginning. I feel like the ending left you hanging a bit and would've liked to see that bastard rot. 70,000 abortions in South Africa every year. Disgusting.
August 11, 2014
Wow. I'm speechless after this book. Incredibly written and the story is heartbreaking. Realizing that these terrible acts have occurred and are still occurring is just awful (for lack of a better word.) This is a book everyone needs to read.
August 5, 2014
When Kasey asked me to review a proof copy of this book, I was intrigued by the description. I've read other dystopian-type books, and others touching on the controversial topics this one deals with, so I was interested to see how Kasey would handle them.
Like others have said, the books felt like it started a little slow. Then SO MUCH happened in the second part. In the middle of the last section, I could hardly believe there were so few pages left because surely there was too much that needed to still happen. Right? I guess that's where the second book comes in! I was glad to not have to put it down during the last couple sections.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
I liked Anytha's character, and thought she was developed well. Her parents, though, were pretty confusing to me and I didn't feel like their motivations were fully explained for certain things. Ari seemed like a nice person, but their relationship seemed rushed and without a sure foundation. Tabitha's character was fairly well developed, and I felt connected to her as she was told "you are valued" and then routinely violated. You could feel her pain. Inali was a somewhat confusing character, though I could sense early on that something would happen involving him. I think there is room for character development with him to explain his motivation and get readers inside his head.
The story line was well thought out. Some of the language was a bit difficult for me, though I figure it was meant to reflect the South African culture is was set in.
The way Kasey handled abortion was interesting to me because she used terms that were distinctive of both sides of the debate such as "pro-life", "safe and legal", "killing a baby" as well as "termination of pregnancy". It seemed obvious to me, as the book went on what Kasey's personal stance on the issue is. Though I don't think that's necessarily a weakness in her writing, I do think it would be something to be conscious of in the following books when she chooses how to portray either/both sides of the issue.
Overall, I think this was a well written first novel for Kasey. Congratulations, and I look forward to reading more!
Like others have said, the books felt like it started a little slow. Then SO MUCH happened in the second part. In the middle of the last section, I could hardly believe there were so few pages left because surely there was too much that needed to still happen. Right? I guess that's where the second book comes in! I was glad to not have to put it down during the last couple sections.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
I liked Anytha's character, and thought she was developed well. Her parents, though, were pretty confusing to me and I didn't feel like their motivations were fully explained for certain things. Ari seemed like a nice person, but their relationship seemed rushed and without a sure foundation. Tabitha's character was fairly well developed, and I felt connected to her as she was told "you are valued" and then routinely violated. You could feel her pain. Inali was a somewhat confusing character, though I could sense early on that something would happen involving him. I think there is room for character development with him to explain his motivation and get readers inside his head.
The story line was well thought out. Some of the language was a bit difficult for me, though I figure it was meant to reflect the South African culture is was set in.
The way Kasey handled abortion was interesting to me because she used terms that were distinctive of both sides of the debate such as "pro-life", "safe and legal", "killing a baby" as well as "termination of pregnancy". It seemed obvious to me, as the book went on what Kasey's personal stance on the issue is. Though I don't think that's necessarily a weakness in her writing, I do think it would be something to be conscious of in the following books when she chooses how to portray either/both sides of the issue.
Overall, I think this was a well written first novel for Kasey. Congratulations, and I look forward to reading more!
abandoned-dnf
September 8, 2017DNF...and sort of reluctantly.
Started out well, and the author writes lovely place descriptions and realistic dialogue.
The alternate history of South Africa and using the mutilations going on in parts of Africa as a plot devise was unique and had so much promise. I was willing to stick with it until it become obvious we're headed into some blatant sermonizing about reproductive rights (or the lack thereof since there is a decidedly anti-choice slant.) Obviously, the author and I have very different opinions on reproductive choice, and I choose not to invest my time in being preached at by a novel.
Goodreads' rating system is set up to reflect a reader's enjoyment of a book, so I'd be lying if I rated it more than two stars. Someone who agrees with the author's conservative/religious bent or who is willing to overlook it for sake of the fictional story will likely be able to rate it much higher.
In the author's favor, I appreciate she obviously did research about albinism and strove for some accuracy about the condition. That's a hell of a lot more than most people bother to do.
Started out well, and the author writes lovely place descriptions and realistic dialogue.
The alternate history of South Africa and using the mutilations going on in parts of Africa as a plot devise was unique and had so much promise. I was willing to stick with it until it become obvious we're headed into some blatant sermonizing about reproductive rights (or the lack thereof since there is a decidedly anti-choice slant.) Obviously, the author and I have very different opinions on reproductive choice, and I choose not to invest my time in being preached at by a novel.
Goodreads' rating system is set up to reflect a reader's enjoyment of a book, so I'd be lying if I rated it more than two stars. Someone who agrees with the author's conservative/religious bent or who is willing to overlook it for sake of the fictional story will likely be able to rate it much higher.
In the author's favor, I appreciate she obviously did research about albinism and strove for some accuracy about the condition. That's a hell of a lot more than most people bother to do.
April 20, 2016
Although it has been nearly 2 years since I have read Blue for the first time this story has stuck with me. It is such a heart breaking story yet love and hope are so gently woven throughout the pages. Blue will leave you wanting to hear more of the characters stories! It's also a reality check and really REALLY gets you thinking! Blue has inspired me to learn about certain elements in the book more! It inspired me to learn more about a subject I am now partly thanks to Blue extremely passionate about! This book is a must read EVERYONE has to read this book because it will change the way you look at things! It really just shakes you to the core and gets you thinking! For me a lot of the topics in the book I knew about but I hadn't ever really stopped to think what really was going on behind those big words that I had heard said during family political discussions. Well there are some tough themes in the book they are things we need to know about not shove under a rug! Because if we don't stand up, who will?
January 5, 2015
Did not like it which is sad because the blurb made it seem so promising. The main characters were the textbook definition of 'I'm not like other girls' and drove me crazy. The villain was unconvincing and his motive appeared lack-luster. I felt like religious views were being forced on me via the protagonists- campaigning for how 'wrong' abortion is in a way that didn't contribute to plot.
As a positive, Kasey Jackson is a wonderful writer. Although I didn't like the plot of the book I really enjoyed her descriptions and think the setting of the novel was beautiful.
As a positive, Kasey Jackson is a wonderful writer. Although I didn't like the plot of the book I really enjoyed her descriptions and think the setting of the novel was beautiful.
November 2, 2014
Really enjoyed this book it was so different then the normal books I read, but it was refreshing and nice to have smart independent lead characters. There were flaws of course like any book (plot was a bit predictable at times) but overall really liked this book!
June 11, 2014
this book is not a good read, but a great read! it was very well written! i couldnt put it down and i cant wait for the sequel!
August 27, 2014
Dull, flat, preachy, and white. Except the villain, a hypersexed black man.
October 31, 2014
I need a sequel! I have read a book set in South Africa before and the plot was captivating. I want to know what happens to the ladies next.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews