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The New Agenda #3
The Mainframe
Amazon Best Seller in Post-Apocalyptic and Dystopian Science Fiction.
A dystopian book series about love and the fight for freedom -- Book 3.
The hunt for Morray continues. Book three picks up seventeen years after the disappearance of former city center leader, Chief Morray. There has been peace among the West Coast regions, but in Ojai Village there is very little peace between Ava and her sixteen-year old daughter Grace. Both have different ideas about what it takes to maintain independence. Grace comes across some digital footprints inside the mainframe, convincing Ava that Morray is back to seek revenge and reclaim control. When Ava goes missing, Grace assembles a motley crew of cadets to go on a search and rescue mission to save her mother and take down Morray. Grace soon learns that independence comes at a price.
A dystopian book series about love and the fight for freedom -- Book 3.
The hunt for Morray continues. Book three picks up seventeen years after the disappearance of former city center leader, Chief Morray. There has been peace among the West Coast regions, but in Ojai Village there is very little peace between Ava and her sixteen-year old daughter Grace. Both have different ideas about what it takes to maintain independence. Grace comes across some digital footprints inside the mainframe, convincing Ava that Morray is back to seek revenge and reclaim control. When Ava goes missing, Grace assembles a motley crew of cadets to go on a search and rescue mission to save her mother and take down Morray. Grace soon learns that independence comes at a price.
261 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2014
10 people are currently reading
384 people want to read
About the author
Simone Pond
32 books254 followersAuthor of hard-to-put-down, action-packed dystopian and fantasy. Also known as Simone DeBlasio Stier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 31, 2015
I could not put this book down! All of the new characters kept the storyline fresh and the plot unpredictable. I especially loved the mystery behind each new character; it was impossible to tell if they were really who they claimed. Overall 5/5 stars; my favorite book in the series so far!
February 19, 2015
Thanks to Simone Pond for giving me this book to review.
17 years after Chief Morray disappeared, and thinks he is gone for good apart from Ava, who knows that he will return and destroy the peace that has lasted for years. Grace, Ava and Joseph’s teenage daughter has always had a fraught relationship with her mother, as she has felt constricted under her protective nature. Grace has always wanted to make a name for herself away from her famous and influential persons and dreams that she will be accepted into the Silcon Valley Academy, so that she can be trained to become a solider. When Ava goes missing, assumed kidnaped by Morray, Grace, assembles a group of cadets to rescue her from Seattle, but is she walking into a trap or is Grace too late to save her mother.
The Mainframe is a really enjoyable sequel, it is must better The New Agenda and even better than The City Center. It has a bit of romance, quite a bit of action and military strategy, but not so much that it becomes boring. Not as predictable as I believed it would be, as the person I thought would be the love interest ended up not being.
Grace is stubborn, independent and very similar to her mother, Ava, as she knows what she wants and what is right. Ava is the same person we knew from The City Center but has grown over protective, probably because of what happened in her teenage years. I did miss Jospeh in this book, as he is not it as much as I would have liked.
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one. I would recommend The Mainframe to people who have enjoyed the previous two books in this series, especially the first one, and this series to fans of Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
17 years after Chief Morray disappeared, and thinks he is gone for good apart from Ava, who knows that he will return and destroy the peace that has lasted for years. Grace, Ava and Joseph’s teenage daughter has always had a fraught relationship with her mother, as she has felt constricted under her protective nature. Grace has always wanted to make a name for herself away from her famous and influential persons and dreams that she will be accepted into the Silcon Valley Academy, so that she can be trained to become a solider. When Ava goes missing, assumed kidnaped by Morray, Grace, assembles a group of cadets to rescue her from Seattle, but is she walking into a trap or is Grace too late to save her mother.
The Mainframe is a really enjoyable sequel, it is must better The New Agenda and even better than The City Center. It has a bit of romance, quite a bit of action and military strategy, but not so much that it becomes boring. Not as predictable as I believed it would be, as the person I thought would be the love interest ended up not being.
Grace is stubborn, independent and very similar to her mother, Ava, as she knows what she wants and what is right. Ava is the same person we knew from The City Center but has grown over protective, probably because of what happened in her teenage years. I did miss Jospeh in this book, as he is not it as much as I would have liked.
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one. I would recommend The Mainframe to people who have enjoyed the previous two books in this series, especially the first one, and this series to fans of Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
November 23, 2014
**I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review**
Original review can be found here:http://superbookgrl13.blogspot.com/20...
This one takes place mostly in the point of view of Grace, Ava's daughter, years after Book 1 and 2. Grace is a bit like Ava, and the two of them butt heads a lot, which I thought was amusing to see. I was disappointed in how Ava "grew up" I loved how headstrong she was and independent and she saved the world, now she seems to be a mainframe junky that sort of neglected her family, and spent most of Grace's growing up years connected to the mainframe rather than with her family. and Joseph seemed to sort of just go with it.
So, we follow Grace into Academy tryouts where we meet the next generation of world savers who go with Grace on her adventure to rescue her missing mother. The book was really fast paced, and quick, I wish it could have lingered a little bit longer on the Academy, or relationships between the characters, and the things they went through at the Academy, it seemed to glance through and time was really quick, one moment they were just hooking up for practice the next they were seasoned and ready to graduate.
The ending seems to show promise for a book 4, so we shall see what happens next. I liked this book my favorite is still book 1, but this one is still pretty good, I will definitely read book 4 if there is one!
Thank you to the author for letting me read this series!
Original review can be found here:http://superbookgrl13.blogspot.com/20...
This one takes place mostly in the point of view of Grace, Ava's daughter, years after Book 1 and 2. Grace is a bit like Ava, and the two of them butt heads a lot, which I thought was amusing to see. I was disappointed in how Ava "grew up" I loved how headstrong she was and independent and she saved the world, now she seems to be a mainframe junky that sort of neglected her family, and spent most of Grace's growing up years connected to the mainframe rather than with her family. and Joseph seemed to sort of just go with it.
So, we follow Grace into Academy tryouts where we meet the next generation of world savers who go with Grace on her adventure to rescue her missing mother. The book was really fast paced, and quick, I wish it could have lingered a little bit longer on the Academy, or relationships between the characters, and the things they went through at the Academy, it seemed to glance through and time was really quick, one moment they were just hooking up for practice the next they were seasoned and ready to graduate.
The ending seems to show promise for a book 4, so we shall see what happens next. I liked this book my favorite is still book 1, but this one is still pretty good, I will definitely read book 4 if there is one!
Thank you to the author for letting me read this series!
December 10, 2014
2345, Grace Strader (Gracie, Outsider) lived with her mother in the Ojai Village. She & her friends were about to try out for the Silicon Valley Academy (SVA) combat program (Combat & Weapons, Strategic Development, Digital Communications, Search & Rescue.
For 16 yrs. Grace’s mother Ava Strader (nee Rhodes) had been hunting for Chief William Stowe Morray. He would destroy everything/everyone. He also controlled human DNA breeding. John Dickson was his assistant. Chief Morray had once ruled over the LA City Center (prison, slavery,
300 yrs. earlier Repatterning). But now the New Democracy had torn it down & dismantled it. It no longer existed.
Or did Grace Mom only imagine it happened?
General Joseph Strader was her father. He graduated from the Academy.
Grace enjoyed working out at the SportsPlex.
Sam (parent’s assistant) kind of kept & eye out/on for Grace (Lonestar.
The training day had finally come for the cadets. Grace Strader (Search & Rescue), Marion Jones (Combat & Weapons), Blythe Ballesteros (Digital Communications) & Blaine Freeman (Strategic Development) were all present. Ms. Atwood was 1 of the judges.
The next morning Director Faraday had an assembly/orientation. He had all the information the 4 needed about Silicon Valley Academy (SVA).
The campus had been in existence since 2330, & there were 9,000 cadets with a wide array of degrees & 250 faculty instructors.
The 1st. month was virtual reality training.
Grace & Sam were working on the computers mainframe & monitors for the Silicon Valley Academy (SVA). They were also tracking the digital footprint & archives files of none other than Chief Morray.
Ava & Director Faraday had a meeting about this.
Grace was finding out a lot of information on Chief Morray & his family & cohorts.
Lillian (Ojai, 300 year, ago, Outsider) shared a lot of historical facts with Grace.
Training everyday was a different situation/scenario.
Where will the adventure take Grace & her entourage: Blythe, Missakian, & Marion next?
What does Dragon Rising really mean?
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great movie, animated cartoon, PP presentation or paid-per-view mini TV series (A & E, History channel). There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Goodreads)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
For 16 yrs. Grace’s mother Ava Strader (nee Rhodes) had been hunting for Chief William Stowe Morray. He would destroy everything/everyone. He also controlled human DNA breeding. John Dickson was his assistant. Chief Morray had once ruled over the LA City Center (prison, slavery,
300 yrs. earlier Repatterning). But now the New Democracy had torn it down & dismantled it. It no longer existed.
Or did Grace Mom only imagine it happened?
General Joseph Strader was her father. He graduated from the Academy.
Grace enjoyed working out at the SportsPlex.
Sam (parent’s assistant) kind of kept & eye out/on for Grace (Lonestar.
The training day had finally come for the cadets. Grace Strader (Search & Rescue), Marion Jones (Combat & Weapons), Blythe Ballesteros (Digital Communications) & Blaine Freeman (Strategic Development) were all present. Ms. Atwood was 1 of the judges.
The next morning Director Faraday had an assembly/orientation. He had all the information the 4 needed about Silicon Valley Academy (SVA).
The campus had been in existence since 2330, & there were 9,000 cadets with a wide array of degrees & 250 faculty instructors.
The 1st. month was virtual reality training.
Grace & Sam were working on the computers mainframe & monitors for the Silicon Valley Academy (SVA). They were also tracking the digital footprint & archives files of none other than Chief Morray.
Ava & Director Faraday had a meeting about this.
Grace was finding out a lot of information on Chief Morray & his family & cohorts.
Lillian (Ojai, 300 year, ago, Outsider) shared a lot of historical facts with Grace.
Training everyday was a different situation/scenario.
Where will the adventure take Grace & her entourage: Blythe, Missakian, & Marion next?
What does Dragon Rising really mean?
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make great movie, animated cartoon, PP presentation or paid-per-view mini TV series (A & E, History channel). There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free book (Goodreads)
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
March 7, 2015
* I was very excited to receive a prelaunch copy of this book from the author herself. Thank you so much Simone! *
Unfortunately being caught up with work and kids it took me longer to tuck into it then originally planned.
I love this series because it takes me back to all the classic scifi books and movies I grew up with in the 80s and 90s and does invoke a certain sense of nostalgia.
We reconnect with Ava and Joseph at a time their daughter is all grown up and ready to join the fight to keep Morray at bay.
in order to preserve her hard fought freedom, Ava has become obsessed with The Mainframe, Morray and Lillian, and in the process unintentionally neglects tomboy Grace.
This book gives us a peek into Grace's character and paves the way for her journey of self discovery and coming of age (Book 4?).
Grace finds she is more like her mother than she could have ever imagined (something most daughters experience at one point or another!) and surprises herself by making choices going against the grain.
I found the first half a little slow but it picks up pace during the second half and takes us straight into the deepest, darkest recesses of Morray's twisted mind. In search of Ava, Grace is sucked into her mother's world and fascination for Lillian.
I have only two (minor) gripes: 1. The use of repelled instead of rappelled (they repelled down the mountain...!) and the story line about the "natives". I'm not sure in which direction this is going. I understand the underlying respect for indigenous people and preserving their way of life but it came across as a little forced.
Again, thanks so much Simone for your generosity in sharing your writing with us readers so freely.
Unfortunately being caught up with work and kids it took me longer to tuck into it then originally planned.
I love this series because it takes me back to all the classic scifi books and movies I grew up with in the 80s and 90s and does invoke a certain sense of nostalgia.
We reconnect with Ava and Joseph at a time their daughter is all grown up and ready to join the fight to keep Morray at bay.
in order to preserve her hard fought freedom, Ava has become obsessed with The Mainframe, Morray and Lillian, and in the process unintentionally neglects tomboy Grace.
This book gives us a peek into Grace's character and paves the way for her journey of self discovery and coming of age (Book 4?).
Grace finds she is more like her mother than she could have ever imagined (something most daughters experience at one point or another!) and surprises herself by making choices going against the grain.
I found the first half a little slow but it picks up pace during the second half and takes us straight into the deepest, darkest recesses of Morray's twisted mind. In search of Ava, Grace is sucked into her mother's world and fascination for Lillian.
I have only two (minor) gripes: 1. The use of repelled instead of rappelled (they repelled down the mountain...!) and the story line about the "natives". I'm not sure in which direction this is going. I understand the underlying respect for indigenous people and preserving their way of life but it came across as a little forced.
Again, thanks so much Simone for your generosity in sharing your writing with us readers so freely.
December 5, 2014
The Mainframe is the third installment of the “City Center” dystopic sci-fi series by Miss Pond, and her third book. This one returns us to the distant future and to the heroine of the first book - Ava - who is now attempting to balance motherhood of a rebellious scamp of a daughter and obsessively “digitally” tracking Morray, the nemesis of the first book (and whose formative years are chronicled in the second, The New Agenda).
Without giving too much away, the story splits into two - one following the goings-on of Grace, Ava’s daughter, in her quest to become an elite fighting machine and who must eventually prove her wares, and Ava, who incessantly hunts down Morray in the mainframe so much that she seems to inhabit the virtual world more than the “real” word.
Ms. Pond’s savvy with keeping things moving and flowing has grown sharper with each book, and the intertwining between Ava’s and Grace’s stories and the merging of the two is accomplished with great aplomb. The battle scenes are intense but not over-the-top, the romantic interludes are handled with a touch that might make the fellas blush and and ladies gush, but not in a cheesy manner. And if you think you can predict the ending, good luck. It comes from left-field but makes perfect sense once it is revealed.
I hope this series continues…
Without giving too much away, the story splits into two - one following the goings-on of Grace, Ava’s daughter, in her quest to become an elite fighting machine and who must eventually prove her wares, and Ava, who incessantly hunts down Morray in the mainframe so much that she seems to inhabit the virtual world more than the “real” word.
Ms. Pond’s savvy with keeping things moving and flowing has grown sharper with each book, and the intertwining between Ava’s and Grace’s stories and the merging of the two is accomplished with great aplomb. The battle scenes are intense but not over-the-top, the romantic interludes are handled with a touch that might make the fellas blush and and ladies gush, but not in a cheesy manner. And if you think you can predict the ending, good luck. It comes from left-field but makes perfect sense once it is revealed.
I hope this series continues…
December 6, 2014
Thanks Simone for the opportunity to read and review this book! And once again, thanks for hooking up with me on Goodreads. I hit the jackpot!
I returned to the world of Grace and her parents in this one. Grace is much older and looking to get into the academy. However, there is something sinister going on there, but no one knows exactly what. And when you do find out, you are again confronted with Chief Morray and his sinister plans.
As usual, the author put out a very entertaining book. My last two books were not so and I was beginning to think was I getting sick of reading and it was me who had the problem? But alas, the deadline for The Mainframe snuck up on me and I plowed into it. Thankfully, it wasn't me with the problem. I'm enjoying reading again! Ha!!
Once again, the premise of all this computer stuff seems highly unlikely when you just think about it, but when you are reading the book you seriously believe it could happen. The author does a good job with it and your like "okay" and read on enjoying the trip. The characters, well except for the villains, are very likeable and you really get to know them and feel for them. I'm pretty sure this is not the last in the series and I really look forward to reading more about Grace and her parents. Oh and her new love interest as well!
I returned to the world of Grace and her parents in this one. Grace is much older and looking to get into the academy. However, there is something sinister going on there, but no one knows exactly what. And when you do find out, you are again confronted with Chief Morray and his sinister plans.
As usual, the author put out a very entertaining book. My last two books were not so and I was beginning to think was I getting sick of reading and it was me who had the problem? But alas, the deadline for The Mainframe snuck up on me and I plowed into it. Thankfully, it wasn't me with the problem. I'm enjoying reading again! Ha!!
Once again, the premise of all this computer stuff seems highly unlikely when you just think about it, but when you are reading the book you seriously believe it could happen. The author does a good job with it and your like "okay" and read on enjoying the trip. The characters, well except for the villains, are very likeable and you really get to know them and feel for them. I'm pretty sure this is not the last in the series and I really look forward to reading more about Grace and her parents. Oh and her new love interest as well!
November 24, 2014
This third book in the series continues the story of Ava and Morray. In this one, Grace (Joseph and Ava's daughter) wants only to go the Silicon Valley Academy to train to be a soldier-warrior like her father. In her quest to be accepted, during her testing, Grace unwittingly discovers digital footprints in the Mainframe that could lead to Morray. Ava's obsession to find Morray is still as strong as ever, but now she feels she has some hope of finding him as she learns more about the Mainframe, too.
Told from both Grace's and Ava's perspectives, the story allows the reader to experience the past and present at the same time. New characters are introduced, yet characters from the previous two resurface. Their interactions make for a compelling addition to this dystopian novel series. The novel is complete as is, yet it leaves the reader wanting more.
While this one can be enjoyed without having read the others, don't. Let the stories unfold, by reading them in order: The City Center, The New Agenda, and The Mainframe.
Full disclosure: I received this novel directly from the author as one of her pre-readers; however, that in no way affected my review.
Told from both Grace's and Ava's perspectives, the story allows the reader to experience the past and present at the same time. New characters are introduced, yet characters from the previous two resurface. Their interactions make for a compelling addition to this dystopian novel series. The novel is complete as is, yet it leaves the reader wanting more.
While this one can be enjoyed without having read the others, don't. Let the stories unfold, by reading them in order: The City Center, The New Agenda, and The Mainframe.
Full disclosure: I received this novel directly from the author as one of her pre-readers; however, that in no way affected my review.
November 27, 2014
I received an early copy of The Mainframe to review. This is the third story in the New Agenda Series. I found while I wasn't reading it I was thinking about it and when I was reading I had a difficult time putting it down. I think the ending of The Mainframe angered me more then the other two in the series. I was reading on my Kindle and tried to turn a page and discovered no more to read! I wasn't ready for the story to end, I wanted more. Excellent stand alone story but so much more satisfying to have read all three.
January 21, 2015
It was such a treat to read Simone Ponds 3rd installment of her series. I love that the perspective of the storyteller has shifted again, this time we are with Ava's teenage daughter Grace. I love how Pond is able to tackle so many levels of society commentary and still deliver on loads of intimate character development. And you can tell Pond has done her research on the science & technology behind the stories which is always intriguing and honestly frightening! The Mainframe definitely packs a punch as the writing and story continues to deepen - looking forward to the next one!!
November 28, 2014
If you wonder how technology is impacting outr lives, and what our lives in Southern CA could look like if technology was used for nefarious purposes, you'll love THe Mainframe. The third in the series of dystopia novels, I'm hooked on the characters, and can't wait for the next installment!
If you enjoyed Hunger Games or 1Q84, you'll enjoy The New Agenda series. Do recommend reading in orde, even though are stand alone novels.
If you enjoyed Hunger Games or 1Q84, you'll enjoy The New Agenda series. Do recommend reading in orde, even though are stand alone novels.
November 28, 2014
I LOVED it!!! There is so much heart and genuine compassion in this intricate story which sweeps through generations. The age-old themes of family, loyalty and a desire to make right all social injustice has been expertly handled by our thoughtful and committed author. Bravo, Simone!!! A job well done!!!
December 5, 2014
I loved The Mainframe. Just like in The City Center and The New Agenda, I was immediately pulled into the characters and the story after just a couple of pages and couldn't put this book down until I read every last word. I'm anxiously awaiting a fourth book to answer all of my lingering questions - please tell me there's another book coming! Another great story from a wonderful author.
December 5, 2014
Very good book in series. Page-turner, easy to read (for me, English is my second language) and has balance of action, romance and adventure. Very nicely imaginative and the characters feel real.
I recommend for anyone who likes straight forward science-fiction.
I recommend for anyone who likes straight forward science-fiction.
May 22, 2016
I found I really enjoyed listening to Grace's story. She interacts with her mother, Ava, like many teens fighting for their freedom with parents, but love them as well. Grace ventures in the worlds and engages with what the world has become around her. Grace even falls in love, a feel that balances the story and feels equal to what we got with Ava and Joseph in the first book.
We end the story with a lead to the next book, which I will be needing as I want to see how things turn out for a few people.
****FULL REVIEW****
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com, at my request.
Ava knows Morray will return, but when is what she doesn't know. She's scared she'll lose her daughter, Grace, when he does. Ava's built a wall between her and her family with working non-stop for 16 years at finding Chief Morray through researching journals and searching mainframes. But she's doing it to protect her family she loves so deeply. Now she's got a chance to search the new powerful mainframe for any trace of the man that could destroy everything she loves.
Grace wants to be a soldier like her father, and winning her way into Silicon Valley Academy will be a start, and a way to break away from her mothers protectiveness. Grace wants to live, love, and see the world freely. Her chance to make a life for herself and not living off the reputation of her heroic parents. When Grace realizes her mother will be at the academy too, Grace sets boundaries. But Grace will find she needs to help her mother when she gets lost in the mainframe.
Sarah returns to voice the second book in this series. I like listening to her voice. She fits this world and characters very well with what Simone is putting in words. I love when Sarah does the hologram voices. Holograms have the sound and feel we expect, but it also gives us a great feel for how personal she is with the characters.
If it's been a while since you've read the first book, this one will fill you in at the beginning with what the past was. Enough to remind all readers, YA and Adult, of what the brief history is. I found this story a quick and easy listen.
This book is from the view point of Grace, the daughter of Ava and Joseph, at the age of 16, we also see things with Ava's view too. Ava sounds like she's obsessed and paranoid over Morray returning. She's convinced that he will return, she just doesn't know when or in what body. What is found in Grace's test makes Ava believe without a doubt that he's returned, in a new body. Ava dives into the mainframe to see and investigate. Ava just doesn't know what Morray is after, until it's to late.
The world has changed for the better, but there is still a feel of separation between the Insiders and the Outsiders. It's been said it'll take a few generations before the divide is completely washed away. The world is building on the outside of the city as well as in the city with the walls gone. We get to see this through Grace as she has big plans for herself at the Academy, in Silicon Valley.
We see Silicon Valley with the creation of the world now. It's a blend of old world before Repatterning and new with the technology. When Grace goes on a tour, we get a history of the Repatterning and what happened in the first book along with prequel. Also giving us a view of the city. We even learn of a forgotten city center, Emerald Mountain (which I believe is what is depicted on the cover). When Grace learns of the old city center, she becomes curious of it. Wanting to know if there are people inside, and saving them. But the city is protected by the natives there.
We get to meet a potential love interest for Grace early in the book. Lucas seems so sweet and a great balance for her. We see a few friends, and not so close friends, of Grace as she goes to the Academy and then on her mission to save her mother.
Some of the relationships and events are predictable, what she doesn't want is what she gets, but the story around them are what is interesting and fun.
I found I really enjoyed listening to Grace's story. She interacts with her mother, Ava, like many teens fighting for their freedom with parents, but love them as well. Grace ventures in the worlds and engages with what the world has become around her. Grace even falls in love, a feel that balances the story and feels equal to what we got with Ava and Joseph in the first book.
We end the story with a lead to the next book, which I will be needing as I want to see how things turn out for a few people.
We end the story with a lead to the next book, which I will be needing as I want to see how things turn out for a few people.
****FULL REVIEW****
*This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom dot com, at my request.
Ava knows Morray will return, but when is what she doesn't know. She's scared she'll lose her daughter, Grace, when he does. Ava's built a wall between her and her family with working non-stop for 16 years at finding Chief Morray through researching journals and searching mainframes. But she's doing it to protect her family she loves so deeply. Now she's got a chance to search the new powerful mainframe for any trace of the man that could destroy everything she loves.
Grace wants to be a soldier like her father, and winning her way into Silicon Valley Academy will be a start, and a way to break away from her mothers protectiveness. Grace wants to live, love, and see the world freely. Her chance to make a life for herself and not living off the reputation of her heroic parents. When Grace realizes her mother will be at the academy too, Grace sets boundaries. But Grace will find she needs to help her mother when she gets lost in the mainframe.
Sarah returns to voice the second book in this series. I like listening to her voice. She fits this world and characters very well with what Simone is putting in words. I love when Sarah does the hologram voices. Holograms have the sound and feel we expect, but it also gives us a great feel for how personal she is with the characters.
If it's been a while since you've read the first book, this one will fill you in at the beginning with what the past was. Enough to remind all readers, YA and Adult, of what the brief history is. I found this story a quick and easy listen.
This book is from the view point of Grace, the daughter of Ava and Joseph, at the age of 16, we also see things with Ava's view too. Ava sounds like she's obsessed and paranoid over Morray returning. She's convinced that he will return, she just doesn't know when or in what body. What is found in Grace's test makes Ava believe without a doubt that he's returned, in a new body. Ava dives into the mainframe to see and investigate. Ava just doesn't know what Morray is after, until it's to late.
The world has changed for the better, but there is still a feel of separation between the Insiders and the Outsiders. It's been said it'll take a few generations before the divide is completely washed away. The world is building on the outside of the city as well as in the city with the walls gone. We get to see this through Grace as she has big plans for herself at the Academy, in Silicon Valley.
We see Silicon Valley with the creation of the world now. It's a blend of old world before Repatterning and new with the technology. When Grace goes on a tour, we get a history of the Repatterning and what happened in the first book along with prequel. Also giving us a view of the city. We even learn of a forgotten city center, Emerald Mountain (which I believe is what is depicted on the cover). When Grace learns of the old city center, she becomes curious of it. Wanting to know if there are people inside, and saving them. But the city is protected by the natives there.
We get to meet a potential love interest for Grace early in the book. Lucas seems so sweet and a great balance for her. We see a few friends, and not so close friends, of Grace as she goes to the Academy and then on her mission to save her mother.
Some of the relationships and events are predictable, what she doesn't want is what she gets, but the story around them are what is interesting and fun.
I found I really enjoyed listening to Grace's story. She interacts with her mother, Ava, like many teens fighting for their freedom with parents, but love them as well. Grace ventures in the worlds and engages with what the world has become around her. Grace even falls in love, a feel that balances the story and feels equal to what we got with Ava and Joseph in the first book.
We end the story with a lead to the next book, which I will be needing as I want to see how things turn out for a few people.
December 15, 2014
original review @ JC's Book Haven.
"Ready for what, Ava? You've spent all these years preparing for Morray's return, and what has that done for you? You've locked yourself in another prison, and you've been holding your daughter hostage."
The Good
So having enjoyed the first two books in the series I was looking forward to this one. Ava is still hunting for Morray and we get to know her daughter now 16 years old and determined to get away from her over protective mother. I liked seeing how city center and surrounding villages have integrated into each other. I also enjoy how each book provided enough information that you wouldn't be lost if you accidentally read them out of order.
The Bad
I feel I have more questions now after having read the 3rd book then I had answered by reading it. Like I have no idea why they wouldn't have searched Morray's hideout in the sixteen years they've been looking for him.
The Romance
Ava and Joseph are still together. Grace, their daughter, experiences her first crush. And then gets to experience having that crush be around constantly creating awkward situations.
Conclusion
If you liked the first two books in the series or enjoy a strong dystopian environment with a creepy villain then I highly recommend this series. The strong heroine out to prove herself and protect the ones she loves doesn't hurt either. While Grace is a bit of a whiney teen in the beginning, watching her grow into her own really makes this part of the series.
"Ready for what, Ava? You've spent all these years preparing for Morray's return, and what has that done for you? You've locked yourself in another prison, and you've been holding your daughter hostage."
The Good
So having enjoyed the first two books in the series I was looking forward to this one. Ava is still hunting for Morray and we get to know her daughter now 16 years old and determined to get away from her over protective mother. I liked seeing how city center and surrounding villages have integrated into each other. I also enjoy how each book provided enough information that you wouldn't be lost if you accidentally read them out of order.
The Bad
I feel I have more questions now after having read the 3rd book then I had answered by reading it. Like I have no idea why they wouldn't have searched Morray's hideout in the sixteen years they've been looking for him.
The Romance
Ava and Joseph are still together. Grace, their daughter, experiences her first crush. And then gets to experience having that crush be around constantly creating awkward situations.
Conclusion
If you liked the first two books in the series or enjoy a strong dystopian environment with a creepy villain then I highly recommend this series. The strong heroine out to prove herself and protect the ones she loves doesn't hurt either. While Grace is a bit of a whiney teen in the beginning, watching her grow into her own really makes this part of the series.
January 13, 2016
The story continues with the peaceful life of the Strader family. I found it disapointing that in book three Ava had been transformed into someone striving for change to someone who had lost sight of what she was fighting for. She's gotten so caught up in looking for Morray that she neglects her husband and daughter. Her daughter, Grace, on the other hand behaves in a totally teen fahion, rebelling against her mother and truly despising her. The dad's reaction was a little on the hard-to-believe side though, when he really didn't make a stand for anything.
As Grace enjoys her newfound freedom at the Academy, Morray resurfaces and makes his strike. I found this book to be better then book 2, but it still felt lacking in the story development. The book technically ends with a cliff-hanger but a little weak. That said, I will definitely be reading on to book four to see where the Strader family saga takes us. Overall, the author has written a good story that is fun and enjoyable to read.
As Grace enjoys her newfound freedom at the Academy, Morray resurfaces and makes his strike. I found this book to be better then book 2, but it still felt lacking in the story development. The book technically ends with a cliff-hanger but a little weak. That said, I will definitely be reading on to book four to see where the Strader family saga takes us. Overall, the author has written a good story that is fun and enjoyable to read.
January 19, 2015
Having now read all 3 in this series, one thing has increased with my anticipation of the next one - how quickly I read them. I almost read them too quickly, but once I picked up this book, like the others, I couldn't put it down. I think for my review of The New Agenda I said I read the book in under a day. This one was fell to the same fate. The only flaw in how well-written and captivating it is, is that when you finish, you're left with an emptiness until the next one is ready.
The thing I've found to be most likable of these books is that, although I thought I saw what was coming and that it might become predictable, I am completely clueless of what to expect next. I love that. Expected reads, especially in this genre, is downright deplorable. The Mainframe knocked me back a bit to the point where I almost am pissed that the book ended. I want more, and I want it immediately. But alas, I wait, like all of the rest of these reviewers, for resolution on how this all plays out.
The thing I've found to be most likable of these books is that, although I thought I saw what was coming and that it might become predictable, I am completely clueless of what to expect next. I love that. Expected reads, especially in this genre, is downright deplorable. The Mainframe knocked me back a bit to the point where I almost am pissed that the book ended. I want more, and I want it immediately. But alas, I wait, like all of the rest of these reviewers, for resolution on how this all plays out.
June 23, 2016
Jumping right back into the midst of this chaotic tale, Simone Pond does well to welcome a new character: Grace, the daughter to Ava and Joseph as a young adult. In this story, she is the main character and is the perfect combo of her parents with her independent nature like her mother and her leadership qualities like her father. Her upbringing and personality help her find herself in the midst of saving her mother and discovering the terror hidden in the mainframe.
The story was not as detailed and jumped from scene to scene a bit to quickly for my taste. I enjoy Pond's imagination and wanted to live in the story longer.
Returning narrator, Sarah Zimmerman, does well to keep this story at a steady pace and keeps the listener engaged with her easy going voice.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and am happy this is not the end to the series. I look forward to listening to the next book in this saga.
This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
The story was not as detailed and jumped from scene to scene a bit to quickly for my taste. I enjoy Pond's imagination and wanted to live in the story longer.
Returning narrator, Sarah Zimmerman, does well to keep this story at a steady pace and keeps the listener engaged with her easy going voice.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and am happy this is not the end to the series. I look forward to listening to the next book in this saga.
This audiobook was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2014
As the 3rd installment in the series, The Mainframe takes us even farther into the future. Now, Ava's daughter Grace is 16 and coming into her own. Grace is trying to join the exclusive Silicon Valley Academy, and she is reaching out to carve her own path in her world, which is hard to do with parents who helped shape the very world she lives in. Plus, she has all the angsty feelings of a teenager that builds a complex and realistic character.
With new story lines and characters, plus the updates and continuations of the previous books, The Mainframe sucks you in quickly and has you turning the pages to figure out what will come next. There are still more possibilities for this series...I can't help but wonder if/when and who will return!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
With new story lines and characters, plus the updates and continuations of the previous books, The Mainframe sucks you in quickly and has you turning the pages to figure out what will come next. There are still more possibilities for this series...I can't help but wonder if/when and who will return!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2015
I received an electronic copy of The Mainframe by the author for an honest review. Grace has been gearing up for one special moment in her life - to be accepted into the Academy for combat training and to become a soldier like her father. Until she is in the mainframe for the tech portion of her test, she does not realize that she has skills like her mother Ava. Grace discovers suspicious digital footprints in the mainframe, uncovering a plot by former Chief Morray to return. In the days that follow this discovery, Grace will be mentally, physically and emotionally tested. The plot flowed well from moment to moment and the characters were well defined. This book was a mash up between a quest novel and a science fiction one, which I found interesting. The Mainframe was a quick read and left open the potential for more books in this series.
August 3, 2015
So this is book three and the story isn't losing it's flavor yet. Usually, series start to drift by this point, but not here. I am as drawn to this series as I was when I started.
The book alternates between Ava, who has spent the last sixteen years trying to find Morray in the mainframe, and her daughter Grace, who is training to go to a military academy and who resents her mother's absence.
Grace stumbles upon Morray's footprint in tryouts for the academy and Ava pounces on them with a passion while Grace spends her first month at the academy.
The book is fast paced and keeps you interested although the ending seems to peter out a bit in set up for the final book.
The book could have used another run through the editors, but the mistakes are minor and infrequent.
The book alternates between Ava, who has spent the last sixteen years trying to find Morray in the mainframe, and her daughter Grace, who is training to go to a military academy and who resents her mother's absence.
Grace stumbles upon Morray's footprint in tryouts for the academy and Ava pounces on them with a passion while Grace spends her first month at the academy.
The book is fast paced and keeps you interested although the ending seems to peter out a bit in set up for the final book.
The book could have used another run through the editors, but the mistakes are minor and infrequent.
July 19, 2015
So this series is really awesome. I loved the two POVs on Ava and Grace, and their journey through both the real and the mainframe. From the beginning of the book, I knew Sam was not to be trusted. Also Ms. Atwood was a bit peculiar. The story and plot line is super strong. For a book series that I haven't found a physical book copy of, this is superb writing. The author really gets major props for how much I have been enjoying these books. The only reason this book took me longer than the first two was because it was getting really creepy and I was a wuss and it freaked me out reading it at night. I love it though. Can't wait for the next book!
December 20, 2014
Simone Pond just has a way of telling a story that brings you right into the action, make you feel like you know each of the characters personally, and keeps you engaged from start to finish. The cadence of the book is perfect, making sure that there is never a lull in the action. Even during my busiest of days, I had a hard time putting this book down. Kudos to Simone for an amazing 3rd book. My only disappointment is that I will now hanging be in complete dispense until the next book in this series is release. This is not only a good read, it is a great read!
April 19, 2016
This is the third book in the series and takes us into the future.The story centers around Ava & her family.Her daughter grace struggles to make a place for herself and Ava continues to try and put an end to the threat of Morray.The author continues to create characters I feel invested in.I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn't wait to find out the characters fates.I look forward to reading future works by this author.The narrator has a pleasant voice to listen too.I received an audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2014
WOW! I love books. Especially good books, then when you read an amazing book you are so happy you feel like you're going to explode. I exploded with joy more times than I can count. It wrap ps up really nice giving a good boyfriend and a safe place, but it also demands another book in the series with her mom not there and morray not gone. Can't wait to read more!
January 16, 2015
One more please!
These books are captivating from the first paragraph. I absolutely adore this subject matter. It reminds me that things can always be worse than what you struggle through. It also gives me a glimpse of new beginnings and second chances. Something I am very passionate about. Give us another and thank you
These books are captivating from the first paragraph. I absolutely adore this subject matter. It reminds me that things can always be worse than what you struggle through. It also gives me a glimpse of new beginnings and second chances. Something I am very passionate about. Give us another and thank you
August 31, 2015
Never ending twists and turns inside and outside the mainframe, time and space are changeable and constantly keep the storyline moving around. Loved the two tier/two timeline storytelling - now on to the Torrent!!
Read
December 28, 2015It's been so long since I started this, I'm putting it down and I'll pick it up next year.
May 3, 2015
Is there another book coming?
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