The Given: Book One of The Given trilogy

by Mickey Martin

The world in 2045 has no tolerance for criminals. For the poor with no connections, a simple bullet puts an end to your life of crime. But for the lucky ones, with wealthy families or connections, you're given a second chance and sent to certain establishments around the world, called The Given . Within these facilities, you are educated to a superior level and offered a better way in which to live. Lilliana was one of the lucky ones. After a horrific event that separates her from her family forever, she is placed in the Louisiana's Given facility, run by the ever-charming and handsome brothers, Damon and Cam Night. Lilliana finds herself in a world of new rules, dangerous minds, but thankfully, friends who become her 'sisters of the heart.' As Lilliana and Damon fight their growing, forbidden attraction, Lilliana tries to hold on to the reality that is her new life whilst dealing with sinister and unstable individuals. Can Damon stay away from Lilliana whilst he manages his family's business. Or, does their time together end before it has a chance to flourish?

276 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 25, 2014

Reviews

[Rebecca Fraser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you like surprises? I do. And that’s just what I got with ‘The Given’ – a genre-defying introduction to a page-turning trilogy set in a crime-addled future, where intolerance and rehabilitation share a taut tightrope. Book 1 of The Given introduces protag Lilliana, a plucky teen and survivor of monstrous crimes at the hands of human traffickers who thrive in the gritty underworld of the dark web. When she fights back, she is sent to one of many private global establishments known as The Given, where second chances come with their own perils, pitfalls, opportunities and desires. You could be forgiven for thinking you are stepping into fantasy and folklore by the cover of The Given, rather the reader is dropped into a dystopian world that doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to portraying the craven underbelly of human nature. Add a ‘forbidden’ romance of building passion, a trickle of YA tropes, a colourful cast of strong characters (some of the secondary characters in The Given trump the protags, in my opinion), a sprinkle of heart, humour, and humanity, and a brutal bedrock…and you have an entertaining read on your hands! (As an aside, the author once mentioned she would like to see The Given adapted to the screen. If Tarantino directed Chapter Three, it would be cinematic gold)!

[Kaylene Bradshaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a book I knew I had to dedicate a weekend where I had nothing to interrupt me. But instead I read it from front cover to back in one sitting, it was that good. I didn't move anything except my arms to turn the next page. I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to get the next one in the series when it comes out!

[Lisa Colyer]

Great story line Mickey. looking forward to book two. This book is not for the feint hearted, I am looking forward to seeing how these characters develop and grow with their lives at the Given. Thanks Michelle.

[Sue Barling · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic read, thoroughly enjoyed this book. hurry up and write book 2, can't wait

[Danielle Aitken · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished this intriguing and suspenseful book 1 of this trilogy
The Given.
All I can say is WOW!
I wasn’t expecting that.
This is a true love story that tantalites you and leaves you wanting more from the two main characters, while entwining you in a futuristic storyline, complete with mystery, intrigue and heartbreak, which all play out in a world of good versus evil.
So book 2 Dark Angel .... here I come.
Well done Michelle Weitering 👏🏻

[Rosa Carrafa Publishing · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am sharing this review, not only as a writer myself, but as a woman with a vision and respect for the arts. My genre is creative expression and magical realism; this beautiful book captures all those elements. Highly recommend for those who need some inspiration and supporting fellow authors. Brilliant!

[Rosa Carrafa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous read! I couldn't put it down. Page after page was filled with anticipation and more. I look forward to reading the next two books in this magnificent collection.

[Sharron Bardsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am transported with every page turning moment into the story! i feel like I am Lilliana living her nightmares and her feelings of love and lust for Damon.
I cannot wait and have already started reading book 2 never wanting it to end but always wanting to find out what is next.