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Enslaved #1
Vanquished
When Hana's mom is diagnosed with the mutation, she confesses to Hana she doesn't know what will happen if she dies. Fischer, a medic at the hospital, implies there is Someone who can help-but religion's been outlawed. Hana embarks on a dangerous journey, seeking the answers Fischer insists are available. But when the truth is uncovered, will Hana stick to what she's been taught? Or will she join the rebellion and take a stand against an oppressive society?
280 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2014
7 people are currently reading
720 people want to read
About the author
Katie Clark
23 books124 followersKatie Clark’s published works include multiple YA novels, children's book, and inspirational romances.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 10, 2020
About this book:
“When Hana's mom is diagnosed with the mutation, she confesses to Hana she doesn't know what will happen if she dies. Fischer, a medic at the hospital, implies there is Someone who can help-but religion's been outlawed. Hana embarks on a dangerous journey, seeking the answers Fischer insists are available. But when the truth is uncovered, will Hana stick to what she's been taught? Or will she join the rebellion and take a stand against an oppressive society?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Enslaved” series.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are read, mentioned, & discussed; Many talks about God, Jesus, the Bible, & what happens when we die; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Hana becomes very curious in what happens after you die for her mom’s sake and looks for the answer; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of Bibles & Bible reading (and burning Bibles or books that deal with religion); Mentions of Heaven & Hell (and the thought that people are going to Hell because they haven’t ever heard there is a Hell);
*Note: All religion is outlawed and it is mentioned to have caused division and wars prior to the dystopian time period of the story; Reincarnation is believed to be what happens after you die (told by the government, Hana has a hard time believing it); Meditation is required (Hana thinks it helps & mentions of it; semi-detailed); A few mentions of gods.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘shut up’, five forms of ‘dumb’, and twenty-two forms of ‘stupid’; A mention of using ‘hell’ as a curse word; Eye rolling & Sarcasm;
Hana sneaks out (to learn about God) & lies (to guards to protect the group); Hana’s father threatens that he’ll turn in her if she doesn’t obey the law; All about mentions of cancer (called mutation), Hana’s mom being diagnosed with it, chemo drugs, radiation, dying, & deaths (up to semi-detailed): Mentions of injuries & pain (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of drugs & being addicted; Mentions of crimes, criminals, & stealing; Mentions of bullies & bulling (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of people killing others & murderers; A few mentions of threatening to execute someone; A few mentions of violence; A few mentions of alcohol & drinking; A few mentions of starvation; A couple mentions of wars; A couple mentions of a woman harming herself & bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of a place being set on fire; A couple mentions of a prison; A couple mentions of smoking; A couple mentions of jealousy;
*Note: A mention of most pets ending up as meals during the winter months.
Sexual Content- It is illegal for teens of the opposite gender to be alone together and for a boy to touch a girl (it is said to be a form of birth control); A possible almost kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Many mentions of Hana’s best friend, Jamie, getting pregnant & how the government will force her to get an abortion (Hana does not believe that killing a little baby is the right thing and Jamie does not want to have an abortion, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of sneaking out to meet a boy or girl; A few mentions of kisses, kissing, & imaging being kissed; A few mentions of a guy making comments towards Hana; A couple mentions of jealousy; Some boy trouble & emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of birth control pills (which aren’t available, but Hana assumes if they were, they would be required to be on it); A mention of fresh underwear; A mention of butting into a conversation.
-Hana Norfolk, age 17
1st person P.O.V. of Hana
{Dystopia}
271 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
While this may seem like typical dystopian plot—religion outlawed, government says they know best, an upcoming rebellion, a possible love-triangle, and a main girl wanting to know what really is happening—it’s interesting and engaging to see how it all plays out. I think dystopian books are a favorite of mine because of the anticipation of if the rebellion will be successful. With Hana in this trilogy, we quickly see her passion and leadership skills but by the end of the book I can’t help but smirk at what she’ll do next.
It’s been years since I read this trilogy, so most of this first book it was like reading it for the first time again. Definitely looking forward to rereading the other two books.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“When Hana's mom is diagnosed with the mutation, she confesses to Hana she doesn't know what will happen if she dies. Fischer, a medic at the hospital, implies there is Someone who can help-but religion's been outlawed. Hana embarks on a dangerous journey, seeking the answers Fischer insists are available. But when the truth is uncovered, will Hana stick to what she's been taught? Or will she join the rebellion and take a stand against an oppressive society?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Enslaved” series.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are read, mentioned, & discussed; Many talks about God, Jesus, the Bible, & what happens when we die; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Hana becomes very curious in what happens after you die for her mom’s sake and looks for the answer; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of Bibles & Bible reading (and burning Bibles or books that deal with religion); Mentions of Heaven & Hell (and the thought that people are going to Hell because they haven’t ever heard there is a Hell);
*Note: All religion is outlawed and it is mentioned to have caused division and wars prior to the dystopian time period of the story; Reincarnation is believed to be what happens after you die (told by the government, Hana has a hard time believing it); Meditation is required (Hana thinks it helps & mentions of it; semi-detailed); A few mentions of gods.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘shut up’, five forms of ‘dumb’, and twenty-two forms of ‘stupid’; A mention of using ‘hell’ as a curse word; Eye rolling & Sarcasm;
Hana sneaks out (to learn about God) & lies (to guards to protect the group); Hana’s father threatens that he’ll turn in her if she doesn’t obey the law; All about mentions of cancer (called mutation), Hana’s mom being diagnosed with it, chemo drugs, radiation, dying, & deaths (up to semi-detailed): Mentions of injuries & pain (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of drugs & being addicted; Mentions of crimes, criminals, & stealing; Mentions of bullies & bulling (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of people killing others & murderers; A few mentions of threatening to execute someone; A few mentions of violence; A few mentions of alcohol & drinking; A few mentions of starvation; A couple mentions of wars; A couple mentions of a woman harming herself & bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of a place being set on fire; A couple mentions of a prison; A couple mentions of smoking; A couple mentions of jealousy;
*Note: A mention of most pets ending up as meals during the winter months.
Sexual Content- It is illegal for teens of the opposite gender to be alone together and for a boy to touch a girl (it is said to be a form of birth control); A possible almost kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing; Many mentions of Hana’s best friend, Jamie, getting pregnant & how the government will force her to get an abortion (Hana does not believe that killing a little baby is the right thing and Jamie does not want to have an abortion, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of sneaking out to meet a boy or girl; A few mentions of kisses, kissing, & imaging being kissed; A few mentions of a guy making comments towards Hana; A couple mentions of jealousy; Some boy trouble & emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of birth control pills (which aren’t available, but Hana assumes if they were, they would be required to be on it); A mention of fresh underwear; A mention of butting into a conversation.
-Hana Norfolk, age 17
1st person P.O.V. of Hana
{Dystopia}
271 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
While this may seem like typical dystopian plot—religion outlawed, government says they know best, an upcoming rebellion, a possible love-triangle, and a main girl wanting to know what really is happening—it’s interesting and engaging to see how it all plays out. I think dystopian books are a favorite of mine because of the anticipation of if the rebellion will be successful. With Hana in this trilogy, we quickly see her passion and leadership skills but by the end of the book I can’t help but smirk at what she’ll do next.
It’s been years since I read this trilogy, so most of this first book it was like reading it for the first time again. Definitely looking forward to rereading the other two books.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
August 30, 2014
Katie Clark gives us a glimpse into a future that could one day be our own. Though most measure today’s dystopian novels against The Hunger Games or Divergent, Vanquished can stand on its own against either. Katie has asked the ultimate what if. What if God doesn’t exist because we have never been allowed to learn about God or Jesus?
Life is good, but when Hana’s mother becomes sick with the mutation, and whose medical allowance is depleted, where can Hana turn for help? She hears talk about a God, but is she willing to go against everything she has been raised to believe about her government and risk being sent to a lesser place filled with crime, hunger, and filth?
Hana’s fight is about more than life or death. It’s a fight for eternal life and her soul, and the souls of others who have not heard the Word. If it only takes a spark, this girl is catching fire.
More than a Good Read. Though set years in the fictitious future, Hana’s time may be too close for comfort for us all. Vanquished is a book I couldn’t stop reading. The only disappointment was turning a page and finding the blank page at the end. I wanted more.
Life is good, but when Hana’s mother becomes sick with the mutation, and whose medical allowance is depleted, where can Hana turn for help? She hears talk about a God, but is she willing to go against everything she has been raised to believe about her government and risk being sent to a lesser place filled with crime, hunger, and filth?
Hana’s fight is about more than life or death. It’s a fight for eternal life and her soul, and the souls of others who have not heard the Word. If it only takes a spark, this girl is catching fire.
More than a Good Read. Though set years in the fictitious future, Hana’s time may be too close for comfort for us all. Vanquished is a book I couldn’t stop reading. The only disappointment was turning a page and finding the blank page at the end. I wanted more.
September 15, 2014
A fresh voice and style, and a riveting story. The story is hard to put down, and has a great faith element that gives a wonderful new angle to the general dystopian novel. We definitely need more novels like Vanquished!! Looking forward to seeing where the series goes.
October 31, 2014
A unique spin on the themes of dystopian literature
Welcome to the Dystopian States of America, circa 2250. Natural disasters and a war have wiped out a large part of the population and much of the technology. In a 3-caste society where God has been outlawed, high-school-age Hana must cope with a mother who has cancer, a government whose supposedly "well-intentioned" policies are so repressive that she cannot search for the truth about the deepest issues of life. She has been squeezed into the middle class, the class most naïve about the real nature of the government. Hana sees friends struggling with issues like drugs, abortion, and obeying curfews and other highly restrictive laws imposed on the people. In that respect, the issues mirror much of present day society.
The suspense grows steadily as Hana seeks the truth about life, God, and the Greater Class, the ruling class that supposedly has the wisdom to run the government while looking out for the interests of everyone. To avoid spoilers, I won't give any more specifics from the story.
This is my first YA read in quite some time, and my first dystopian novel, ever.
This story will appeal to young adults who enjoy the dystopian themes of a heroine/hero who fights against a society gone dreadfully wrong and who grows in the process. Vanquished, at times, includes Christian teachings about God and man's relationship to him. The story is written in 1st person, from the heroine's point-of-view -- not my personal preference, but the author did a good job, and 1st person does give the reader a deep understanding of the heroine. When the story ends, it's not a cliffhanger, but it's obvious to the reader that there's more to it. I'm guessing that you'll need to read the entire series to reach what feels like an end to the story.
For people who like dystopian, YA novels with Christian elements in the story, I would give this 5 stars.
Welcome to the Dystopian States of America, circa 2250. Natural disasters and a war have wiped out a large part of the population and much of the technology. In a 3-caste society where God has been outlawed, high-school-age Hana must cope with a mother who has cancer, a government whose supposedly "well-intentioned" policies are so repressive that she cannot search for the truth about the deepest issues of life. She has been squeezed into the middle class, the class most naïve about the real nature of the government. Hana sees friends struggling with issues like drugs, abortion, and obeying curfews and other highly restrictive laws imposed on the people. In that respect, the issues mirror much of present day society.
The suspense grows steadily as Hana seeks the truth about life, God, and the Greater Class, the ruling class that supposedly has the wisdom to run the government while looking out for the interests of everyone. To avoid spoilers, I won't give any more specifics from the story.
This is my first YA read in quite some time, and my first dystopian novel, ever.
This story will appeal to young adults who enjoy the dystopian themes of a heroine/hero who fights against a society gone dreadfully wrong and who grows in the process. Vanquished, at times, includes Christian teachings about God and man's relationship to him. The story is written in 1st person, from the heroine's point-of-view -- not my personal preference, but the author did a good job, and 1st person does give the reader a deep understanding of the heroine. When the story ends, it's not a cliffhanger, but it's obvious to the reader that there's more to it. I'm guessing that you'll need to read the entire series to reach what feels like an end to the story.
For people who like dystopian, YA novels with Christian elements in the story, I would give this 5 stars.
September 9, 2014
Books that make me want to read more are the ones that earn five stars from me. I definitely want to read the next book in Katie Clark's Enslaved series. I'm not terribly familiar with dystopian literature. The only other such stories I've read are the Hunger Games series. This book's setting was highly reminiscent of Hunger Games, but without the the gory plot. Our main character is Hana, a young girl poised to graduate and dreaming of working in the government to promote a better life for all citizens, including the Lessers. Society has been divided into Greaters who rule, Lessers who are relegated to their own communities where supposedly laziness and crime are the norm, and Middles who represent the working class. Hana and her family are Middles, loyal to the system of government and believing what they are told by the Greaters.
Until Hana's mother becomes sick with the "mutation" and Hana sees and hears things that seem to disprove what she's been told. Such as that no chemo drugs exist that could help keep her mother alive. At the hospital, she meets Fischer, a kind medic who encourages her search for answers as to what happens after death. Through the story, we see Hana grow from a girl who obediently goes along with the status quo to one who is willing to risk everything for what she believes in. I found Hana likable, though maybe a little too daring at times with not enough buildup to get her to that point. I felt her loneliness when her pregnant friend is taken away by the government authorities, but didn't quite feel her anger toward her friend's boyfriend. I never really understood what she didn't like about him. But the plot kept me engaged and the end surprised me. Which is why I can't wait for the next book!
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and honestly, I enjoyed reading it!
Until Hana's mother becomes sick with the "mutation" and Hana sees and hears things that seem to disprove what she's been told. Such as that no chemo drugs exist that could help keep her mother alive. At the hospital, she meets Fischer, a kind medic who encourages her search for answers as to what happens after death. Through the story, we see Hana grow from a girl who obediently goes along with the status quo to one who is willing to risk everything for what she believes in. I found Hana likable, though maybe a little too daring at times with not enough buildup to get her to that point. I felt her loneliness when her pregnant friend is taken away by the government authorities, but didn't quite feel her anger toward her friend's boyfriend. I never really understood what she didn't like about him. But the plot kept me engaged and the end surprised me. Which is why I can't wait for the next book!
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and honestly, I enjoyed reading it!
September 10, 2014
While I am a big fan of dystopian novels such as the Matched trilogy and The Giver series, I have never read one with such gripping story-themes as the horrors of cancer, teen pregnancy, abortion, poverty, drug addiction, the silently growing rebellion and boldness of a young girl, the search for Truth, or such a sweet and poignant love story. Katie Clark beautifully wove all of these elements and more into an exciting first book of a trilogy. I was struck by how familiar and prevalent the issues presented are today, and how they have impacted every one of us in some way. With that being said, this is a wonderful book for someone who has experienced the uncertainty of cancer or teen pregnancy, or any of the other issues presented, and could be a fabulous discussion starter.
The main character, Hana, is an endearing girl I was eager to follow, who tells her story in a pensive present-tense. I loved the intensity of her forbidden jaunts in the dark and the tension of the action, the sparks between her and Fischer, a completely compelling character, and the mystery elements throughout the story. Gotta admit, I am a huge Fischer Fan and can’t wait to see more of him in the series!
The story of Vanquished completely sucked me in.....I could picture the scenes, characters, and voices so vividly, it's like they're real. When I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about the story and characters constantly. The depictions of this dystopian society are fascinating, while the yearning for God and higher purpose to me is what makes this story so alive! It is not cold and bleak like other dystopians; it is rather a dormant volcano about to erupt. I can’t wait to read the next two and purchase the hard copies to share.
The main character, Hana, is an endearing girl I was eager to follow, who tells her story in a pensive present-tense. I loved the intensity of her forbidden jaunts in the dark and the tension of the action, the sparks between her and Fischer, a completely compelling character, and the mystery elements throughout the story. Gotta admit, I am a huge Fischer Fan and can’t wait to see more of him in the series!
The story of Vanquished completely sucked me in.....I could picture the scenes, characters, and voices so vividly, it's like they're real. When I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about the story and characters constantly. The depictions of this dystopian society are fascinating, while the yearning for God and higher purpose to me is what makes this story so alive! It is not cold and bleak like other dystopians; it is rather a dormant volcano about to erupt. I can’t wait to read the next two and purchase the hard copies to share.
February 5, 2015
Wow! At first this story unnerved me because like the main character, Hana, my own mother had the mutation (cancer) and her prognosis was not good. I found myself identifying with Hana immediately; her fear of losing her mother, feeling overwhelmed with school, work and home responsibilities, wondering if doctors were doing all they could to help my mother, etc. This connection drew me to Hana's character and into the story. Once there, I could hardly put the book down. Hana's ideal life is turned upside down when she discovers the Greaters (who are the perfect caretakers of all the weaker societies - Middles and Lessers), have lied about the medicines available to cancer victims and that they deliberately with hold the medicines that could help society; and worse use some medicines to control society and hold them in bondage. Unable to trust and searching for answers, Hana discovers there is a force more powerful than the Greaters...and it can change her life and the entire world if she can only find more information about it. This book leaves you reflecting on our current political systems and the tools being used to manipulate, control, and hold our own society in bondage. Do we have the courage to do what is right?!
My clean read and Christian friends will enjoy this well paced, young adult, dystopian novel.
My clean read and Christian friends will enjoy this well paced, young adult, dystopian novel.
September 2, 2014
This was a quick read for me. I wanted to know what was going on in this futuristic American society so I kept flipping pages. This is your typical dystopian story but with an element of faith.
Hana's mom is in the hospital with a terminal disease (sounds like cancer). Hana is about to graduate and be Tested so she can take her place in society but circumstances make her question whether the people who rule her society (Greaters) are ultimately looking out for the good of the Middles (Hana and her family), and whether the Lessers (dregs of society) are really as awful as they are portrayed.
What makes this story stand out from typical dystopian is the faith element. The Greaters have outlawed all religion, so no one knows about God. When Hana meets a boy who can tell her about God and has a Bible, Hana feels obligated to find out what will really happen to her mother when she dies.
I enjoyed this Christian spin on a typical dystopian storyline. I already have the next two in the series queued up to read.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an unbiased review.
Hana's mom is in the hospital with a terminal disease (sounds like cancer). Hana is about to graduate and be Tested so she can take her place in society but circumstances make her question whether the people who rule her society (Greaters) are ultimately looking out for the good of the Middles (Hana and her family), and whether the Lessers (dregs of society) are really as awful as they are portrayed.
What makes this story stand out from typical dystopian is the faith element. The Greaters have outlawed all religion, so no one knows about God. When Hana meets a boy who can tell her about God and has a Bible, Hana feels obligated to find out what will really happen to her mother when she dies.
I enjoyed this Christian spin on a typical dystopian storyline. I already have the next two in the series queued up to read.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 14, 2014
If you want a book that you can not put down and is full of mystery, this is the book for you. Blend Hunger Games with Divergent, add possibilities based on current events and you have a futuristic setting that is realistic. The main character is looking forward to her life after high school. But during the last few weeks before graduation, strange events make her question her world and what adults have told her. Along with her mother, many of her friends keep disappearing. Where are they? What are the strange lights in the sky? Will her test results permit her to follow her career path? Will she get caught going to secret meetings? The cliff hanger chapters kept me turning page after page. Just like with the Hunger Games, I wanted more, more, more. Fortunately, there are two more books in this series so I can continue the journey.
October 10, 2014
This Christian dystopian is a thriller in every sense of the word. Hana is faced with so many changes at times it is har not to feel sorry for her, However, her strength to find out what is really going on keeps you reading and reading. I loved this book and Hana's resolve to find out what the Greaters are doing and how she can help her mother and her friends. I am buying the next books in the series tomorrow!
September 25, 2023
Katie Clark's Enslaved Series reminded me why I love to read. She has an unbelievable talent of mixing Christianity, romance, and action into an unforgettable futuristic story. What I love about her books is that they are completely clean and I don't have to worry about what I might come across while reading them. All of this to say, if you want a good book to read, pick up this one. You won't be disappointed.
September 27, 2014
Set in a future where poverty and sickness are rampant, Hana embarks on a scary and sometimes dangerous journey to find the answers both she and her mother need to survive. What she finds is not at all what she expected, though, and she realizes she's not finding the right answers because she hasn't been asking the right questions to begin with.
March 14, 2015
Although not a regular reader of dystopian fiction, I appreciated and enjoyed this novel. After a slower start in the first few chapters, this story took off and kept me engaged until the surprise ending, which is an intriguing setup for the next book of the series. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Clark.
October 30, 2014
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading, as this is outside of my normal genre, but I loved it. It drew me in from the beginning, and as I type this I continue thinking about it. I loved the characters and the fact that life wasn't always easy for them. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
***I received this book from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.
***I received this book from the publisher/author in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2014
This story was so good! I really enjoyed that it was in first point of view and how I got to see all that is going on in Hana’s mind. Her struggles with her Mom, government, and “religion” were very real to me which made her a relatable character.
I am completely amazed at how Katie weaved the Gospel into “Vanquished” without sounding preachy. She very clearly leaves no doubt about whom Jesus is and what He did for mankind.
The world-building was excellent and I had no problem imaging Hana’s world. It was slightly disturbing how much of their government reminded me of what could be America’s in the future.
I have to mention… that ending! Oh my goodness! I didn’t see that one coming! Completely caught me off guard!
Overall, this was a fantastic dystopian read that I highly recommend to YA lovers!
*(I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.)*
I am completely amazed at how Katie weaved the Gospel into “Vanquished” without sounding preachy. She very clearly leaves no doubt about whom Jesus is and what He did for mankind.
The world-building was excellent and I had no problem imaging Hana’s world. It was slightly disturbing how much of their government reminded me of what could be America’s in the future.
I have to mention… that ending! Oh my goodness! I didn’t see that one coming! Completely caught me off guard!
Overall, this was a fantastic dystopian read that I highly recommend to YA lovers!
*(I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts expressed are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.)*
March 7, 2017
Vanquished got the Enslaved series off to a very strong start! Hana was easy to relate to and root for as she dealt with her mother's illness and the unsettling questions about her society that arose from it. Clark did a great job introducing the love triangle in a way that made Hana's predicament very understandable, and I loved that she didn't shy away from tough issues, yet managed to keep it a very clean read. When I got to the end I simply had to keep reading - I bought the next book the same night :)
September 8, 2014
I am in love with the world Katie Clark has created! Enslaved is fresh, the characters are memorable and easy to fall in love with. Ask yourself, what would this world be like if religion was outlawed? What would the people be like if they have never heard of God? A world where people are classified and ranked, where you are tested and told what your occupation would be. One girl decides there has to be more. One boy shows her that there is a God. Their worlds are forever changed.
June 21, 2018
I didn't know what to expect with this book, but the cover got my attention and the story started out really good. Hana is determined to save her sick mom who has something called a mutation, by everything described and how her mom suffers makes me believe it's some sort of cancer. When Hanna realizes her mom will not get fair treatment, she hears about a true God and being saved through faith and decides to share that with her dying mom.
Couldn't stand Hanna's father and was even glad when the moon guy said it was obvious her intelligence was from her mom. Her father is too logical and fearful, his threats to Hanna are cowardly and outrageous.
There are two guys in Hanna's life, but I don't trust one of them and the other I fully believe is right for her. I didn't see Jamie as a true friend, but I would like to know the mystery of her disappearance.
I loved Hanna's mom's last words, "There's more." Yeah, I definitely need the sequel now! Story had me hooked before I was halfway through it and need to know more :) This book reminded me of Divergent, but not as dark and much more hopeful. Really loved Mr. Elders.
I received an ecopy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and comments are my own.
Couldn't stand Hanna's father and was even glad when the moon guy said it was obvious her intelligence was from her mom. Her father is too logical and fearful, his threats to Hanna are cowardly and outrageous.
There are two guys in Hanna's life, but I don't trust one of them and the other I fully believe is right for her. I didn't see Jamie as a true friend, but I would like to know the mystery of her disappearance.
I loved Hanna's mom's last words, "There's more." Yeah, I definitely need the sequel now! Story had me hooked before I was halfway through it and need to know more :) This book reminded me of Divergent, but not as dark and much more hopeful. Really loved Mr. Elders.
I received an ecopy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and comments are my own.
January 15, 2024
A YA, Christian dystopian novel.
A world where the surviving humans are divided into three groups - Lessers, Middles, and Greats. Much like today, the Greats have all the benefits and the rest work to provide what the Greats want.
A young Middle, Hana, is coming to the end of her schooling. There will be a graduation and The Test. The results The Test will determine Hana’s place in this world.
But Hana’s life has been dealt a large blow. Her mother has the “mutation”. She is in the hospital. Hana, who should be focusing on her big life change, is taken up with her mother’s care. This new perspective leads her to question the world she lives in.
A very interesting novel that would be good for the tween to teen ages.
A world where the surviving humans are divided into three groups - Lessers, Middles, and Greats. Much like today, the Greats have all the benefits and the rest work to provide what the Greats want.
A young Middle, Hana, is coming to the end of her schooling. There will be a graduation and The Test. The results The Test will determine Hana’s place in this world.
But Hana’s life has been dealt a large blow. Her mother has the “mutation”. She is in the hospital. Hana, who should be focusing on her big life change, is taken up with her mother’s care. This new perspective leads her to question the world she lives in.
A very interesting novel that would be good for the tween to teen ages.
August 15, 2017
Vanquished, with its chillingly plausible dystopian future, will challenge readers to ponder faith and recognize the freedom and privileges enjoyed in American society today. This freedom, which was hard fought for, can be too easily lost, and how will our society fare when times get tough and tyranny takes hold? The plot is not resolved at the conclusion and therefore interested readers need to be prepared to obtain the 2nd book.
June 7, 2016
It is a time of Greaters, Middles, and Lessers...until that time is challenged by a few....
Dystopian novels are one of the more popular novels. Dystopian Young Adult novels seem to be the rage among them. Vanquished delivers not only a truly unique dystopian tale, but one that is full of true young adult material.
Many books leave the reader questioning if he/she really read a book told through a teenager's eyes. The angst may be there, but where's the character growth, the battle between adulthood and childhood?
With Katie Clark's Vanquished, Hana is shown at the cusp of womanhood. She has her tendencies to act immature, but to also question and push the boundaries of her rigid surroundings.
Her bravery at not backing down to discover the truth, her wisdom in discerning what to do and when to do it, and her desire to learn the truth about the Greaters set in motion a tale that far surpass most books I have read.
Throughout the book, parallels of the present world and this new world portrayed weave in a complex thread. The scenario is believable. Greaters would have all the luxuries. Middles would have to provide it. Lessers would have to sustain it. The hint of a socialist world is seen through Hana's eyes. And the truth will set you free...that's the theme that comes across as I read Vanquished.
Katie Clark handles the present tense, first person style of writing with ease and expertise. I felt as though I was discovering the information right along with Hana. I panicked when she panicked. I wondered when she wondered. I became angry when she became angry.
If you are looking for an honest-to-goodness Young Adult novel, then I can definitely recommend Vanquished by Katie Clark. And I look forward to reading the further adventures of Hana Norfolk.
Dystopian novels are one of the more popular novels. Dystopian Young Adult novels seem to be the rage among them. Vanquished delivers not only a truly unique dystopian tale, but one that is full of true young adult material.
Many books leave the reader questioning if he/she really read a book told through a teenager's eyes. The angst may be there, but where's the character growth, the battle between adulthood and childhood?
With Katie Clark's Vanquished, Hana is shown at the cusp of womanhood. She has her tendencies to act immature, but to also question and push the boundaries of her rigid surroundings.
Her bravery at not backing down to discover the truth, her wisdom in discerning what to do and when to do it, and her desire to learn the truth about the Greaters set in motion a tale that far surpass most books I have read.
Throughout the book, parallels of the present world and this new world portrayed weave in a complex thread. The scenario is believable. Greaters would have all the luxuries. Middles would have to provide it. Lessers would have to sustain it. The hint of a socialist world is seen through Hana's eyes. And the truth will set you free...that's the theme that comes across as I read Vanquished.
Katie Clark handles the present tense, first person style of writing with ease and expertise. I felt as though I was discovering the information right along with Hana. I panicked when she panicked. I wondered when she wondered. I became angry when she became angry.
If you are looking for an honest-to-goodness Young Adult novel, then I can definitely recommend Vanquished by Katie Clark. And I look forward to reading the further adventures of Hana Norfolk.
March 27, 2015
Vanquished, reminiscent of The Giver by Lois Lowery, takes place in a seemingly perfect futuristic society where people are separated into three classes: the Greaters, the Middles, and the Lessers. But is it perfect? The three classes live in different communities. If a citizen of a higher status steps out of line, the government will pull them from their family, demote them to a Lesser status, and move them to a Lesser city—never to be seen again.
Hana is a solid Middle citizen with dreams of working for the government to help the Lessers. But her mother is deathly ill due to a mutation. Hana discovers that there is medicine that can help, but it is reserved for the Greaters. With her mother dying and Hana powerless to help her, she learns through Fischer that there is an even Greater power.
Bibles have been banned for so long that Hannah has no idea what one is. She’s never heard of God. Religion is outlawed. In her desperation to learn more about God and save her mother, Hana puts her future, and her friends, at risk of being demoted to Lesser status.
Vanquished was such a treat—a clean, compelling story set in a fascinating environment with the Gospel perfectly interwoven. The author cleverly illustrates that the word of God can’t be squelched, even under government threat.
The only complaint I have about Vanquished was the ending. The storyline wasn’t tied up in a nice little bow. Rather, it ended with a hook. So be warned—if you get as into Vanquished as I did, you’ll want the sequel on hand.
Hana is a solid Middle citizen with dreams of working for the government to help the Lessers. But her mother is deathly ill due to a mutation. Hana discovers that there is medicine that can help, but it is reserved for the Greaters. With her mother dying and Hana powerless to help her, she learns through Fischer that there is an even Greater power.
Bibles have been banned for so long that Hannah has no idea what one is. She’s never heard of God. Religion is outlawed. In her desperation to learn more about God and save her mother, Hana puts her future, and her friends, at risk of being demoted to Lesser status.
Vanquished was such a treat—a clean, compelling story set in a fascinating environment with the Gospel perfectly interwoven. The author cleverly illustrates that the word of God can’t be squelched, even under government threat.
The only complaint I have about Vanquished was the ending. The storyline wasn’t tied up in a nice little bow. Rather, it ended with a hook. So be warned—if you get as into Vanquished as I did, you’ll want the sequel on hand.
December 27, 2015
Imagine a future where society is divided into three classes; Lessers, Middles, and the Greaters. Every dystopian society must have someone at the top who perverts life. In this case the Greaters have control of everything that affects the Middles and Lessers including medicine that could cure people. They have also outlawed religion. In this story we meet Hana who's mother has become deathly ill. She has cancer. Hana's society is so controlled she has a curfew, isn't allowed to date, and has grown to believe everything the Greaters have told her. But, when her mom gets sick and she is told there is no medicine for her mom she begins to open her eyes and look around at what is really happening. A medic named Fischer at the hospital tells her that there is a power higher than the Greaters who can help her mom. He shows her a forbidden Bible and encourages her to seek the truth. Her eyes are opened to so many things that are wrong in her world. She realizes that a lot of what is wrong has been created by the Greaters who supposedly have society's best interest in mind.
This is a great and unique dystopian because it isn't just about questioning the upper end of society, but their forced outlawing of religion. Unfortunately, it is beginning to parallel our world way too much. This is a book I would definitely recommend.
I received a copy to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This is a great and unique dystopian because it isn't just about questioning the upper end of society, but their forced outlawing of religion. Unfortunately, it is beginning to parallel our world way too much. This is a book I would definitely recommend.
I received a copy to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
March 12, 2015
Vanquished is book one of the Enslaved Series. This Dystopian series is set in a time where the unwanted and those who don't follow the laws are sent away as lessers. There is a mutation that ravages some people ultimately claiming their life, yet there is a cure that the societies leaders keep for themselves and don't let just anyone have. Religion is outlawed and your life is controlled by others.
Hana's mother has contracted the mutation and Hana can't imagine life without her mother. By accident she learns that there is a cure for her mother, but the doctors won't give it to her. While seeking answers about the cure she learns of a God who loved the world so much that he gave his only Son so that whoever believes in him might have life. Hana wants this life for herself and her mother, but how can she learn how to obtain it?
The journey continues and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. 5 Stars!
Hana's mother has contracted the mutation and Hana can't imagine life without her mother. By accident she learns that there is a cure for her mother, but the doctors won't give it to her. While seeking answers about the cure she learns of a God who loved the world so much that he gave his only Son so that whoever believes in him might have life. Hana wants this life for herself and her mother, but how can she learn how to obtain it?
The journey continues and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. 5 Stars!
February 6, 2015
It took a few chapters to get settled into Hana’s world and personality, (Which is fairly common among dystopian novels) but once things started happening to her best friend, things really picked up. I found myself embracing Hana and her life, her concerns, and needing to find out how things were going to work out.
I enjoyed the cancer and the possible romance subplots. And I really liked how Hana is trying to figure out who God is. (A refreshing subplot that most dystopian novels are without.)
This story continually builds and by the end I was anxious to find out what is next for Hana.
If you enjoyed Seek and Hide by Amanda G. Stevens, than I recommend taking a look at Vanquished!
I enjoyed the cancer and the possible romance subplots. And I really liked how Hana is trying to figure out who God is. (A refreshing subplot that most dystopian novels are without.)
This story continually builds and by the end I was anxious to find out what is next for Hana.
If you enjoyed Seek and Hide by Amanda G. Stevens, than I recommend taking a look at Vanquished!
January 22, 2015
This kind of went OK. The characters failed to generate too well, going for a sudden juxtaposition, considering the reserved nature of the main female character, this didn't flow gradually enough.
Then imagine my shock when about half way through enters stage left, none other than the God Squad. It was all a bit sudden, but I guess if you're bent that way, it wasn't a bad fantasy novel.
All up, it's a Big Brother is Watching You novel. I dumped it, so I don't know whether God saved the day.
Then imagine my shock when about half way through enters stage left, none other than the God Squad. It was all a bit sudden, but I guess if you're bent that way, it wasn't a bad fantasy novel.
All up, it's a Big Brother is Watching You novel. I dumped it, so I don't know whether God saved the day.
May 22, 2015
I liked this book. At first it wasn't bad, but it wasn't amazing either. I felt like I had a little bit of a hard time understanding the world Hana lives in & then also I felt like the pacing was a little slow. Like the plot of the story was interesting, I just was ready for it to get on with it. I felt like it wasn't really until chapter 34 that I felt the pace pick up a little. But overall it's not like it was hard to read, and like I said it was interesting. I really liked the ending & am thankful I got this as a set so I have the second book to start now!
May 8, 2015
World building takes time so the story started a bit slow but Ms. Clark very quickly introduced an intriguing mystery...then another and another until Hana Norfolk's simple life is mired in questions, doubts and fears. The only way out is to find the answers and that puts her directly in the path of her world's leaders. Great characterization drive this story and will definitely lead you into the sequel!
May 20, 2015
I was very intrigued by the premise of a Christian based dystopian novel. It was really well done but occasionally monotonous in its YA/dystopian themes. There is a little bit of a twist to the ending that I didn't really see coming. It had me interested enough that I might check out the second in the series sometime in the future.
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