The Letting

The Letting #1

by Cathrine Goldstein

What if the Devil doesn’t know he’s the Devil? This is the question Veronica “Ronnie” Billings poses to Phoenix, her sworn enemy, the leader of the Peaceful Revolution, and the one she loves. Kidnapped by Phoenix’s rebels, Ronnie learns how wrong she has been. She had no idea that her patriotism was wasted on a corrupt government. Ronnie was proud to be a Leader; taking hundreds of harvested girls to the Letting facility. After all, she was saving them from future Couplings and bringing them to the safety of the New World. Or so she thought… Confused, Ronnie realizes the only way to discover the truth is to trust her heart. Together, Phoenix and Ronnie devise a plan to stop their corrupt government and preempt the dangerous rebel coup which is approaching. But when their plan goes awry, will Ronnie be strong enough to save Phoenix, her country, and herself?

Genres: Dystopia, Young Adult, Romance, Fiction, Science Fiction

332 pages, Paperback

First published November 26, 2014

About the author

Cathrine is a bestselling author and award-winning playwright, including a win for Best Streaming Play by Broadway World Chicago.

A poet and prolific wellness writer, her work has been featured on many television and radio shows. A long-time yoga teacher, she is the founder of Yoga Care for Caregivers.

You can find her at her websites:
https://www.mydharmicjourney.com/
https://cathrinegoldstein.com/

Instagram:
@mydharmicjourney

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCathri...

X:
https://x.com/cathrinegold

or Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mydharmicjo...

Reviews

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Letting is a dystopian novel at its heart, but reads more like a combination of a horror and a thriller genres. Though it has one of the strangest and most chilling premises I have come across, I found that I really enjoyed Goldstein’s world building. In another author’s hands the idea behind this story could have easily become baffling and far too elaborate for most readers, but Goldstein presents her premise by weaving it through a rapid-paced and engrossing plot that is backed up by an intricate setting. She cleverly leads the reader through the shock of the protagonist’s (Veronica’s) discovery of the truth of her world, and her horrifying role in it. In this way, a premise that I would have thought was a bit absurd if it had been presented in a different manner actually helped engage me in a story that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.

Veronica is an extremely well-developed character, and is impossible not to sympathize with her despite what she has done. She is a strong character with a huge heart, and the obstacles she faces are immense. I also thought the secondary characters in the novel were well-developed; even the children that Veronica cares for are each incredibly unique. It is often difficult to develop non-POV characters, especially children, but Goldstein does it with apparent ease. Her writing seems designed to capture the reader’s attention and emotions, and the story that she tells is complex, terrifying and inspirational.

I would recommend this novel to anyone that is a fan of the dystopian genre, even those who believe that they are sick of it because of the sheer number of cliches that are associated with a genre that is currently flooded with new authors. The Letting is a unique story, and the manner it is told is thrillingly distinctive. The plot is engrossing and the breakneck pacing never lets up. The novel’s themes are serious and relevant. The characters seem real and relatable. For all these reasons and more, I applaud Goldstein for writing a novel that I read cover to cover, and am now impatiently awaiting the sequel.

My Rating: 8/10

I received a copy of this novel from YA Bound Book Tours and the author in return for an honest review.

[Faith Limo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I surprisingly enjoyed this book. I was interested in the concept of it. The setting reminds me of Wall-E, everyone is lazy, selfish and highly reliant on technology. It disgusted me that they used young girls' blood to keep them young. Not only is it disgusting but it is just plainly wrong. It's a very original futuristic world. It's depressing and I really hope that our world does not become like this but I have to say, I was infatuated with the idea Goldstein came up with.

Veronica is very kind character. She's a person who can incorporate the attributes of kindness and kickassery, all in one. Not a lot of people can do that. I admired how much she loved "her girls" and how protective and selfless she was with them. Raven and Lulu are the cutest little girls, Raven is my favourite. I love how she doesn't need a lot of words to understand a person's needs and wants. She's mature for her age. Actually, thinking back to it now, most of the good characters in the book are very mature for their age. I actually adore Veronica as a character. She doesn't do anything halfheartedly. When she sets her mind on something, she will do it with as much wit, knowledge and ability as she can. I like a person who can do that. She's gentle but she's strong.



I think the romance was where things went a little awry. It was insta-love.  Everything just "zings". I don't like these kind of romances, it just doesn't work  for me. I'm not saying it was a bad romance, it was great and I swooned but it  was very "love at first sight" There's a lot of times where Phoenix says  something along the lines l  like, "before I loved you, you kind of already struck  me". Don't get me wrong,  Phoenix is a great character; he's protective and understanding but he was  very cheesy. I like cheesy but not this cheesy. It's too twilight-y (I've never read Twilight, though). So many times, they try to abstain from actually doing "it" but then they'll let their hormones get in the way then stop and sigh. Just tie your hands or goodness sake! I want them to talk. Every time they talks it always end up to be a make out session. Very frustrating!

I do want to read the second book. I want to see how they get this world is sorted and get they'll morals right. Farnsworth is a bitchy character! I do not like him! I do not like him at all! He's so wishy-washy, he'll set out on doing the "right thing", then he'll back stab the whole operation. I want him to DIE!!!!!

GIVEAWAY TIME 
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[Stephanie Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The Letting' is a gripping new novel that will enchant readers from the very first page and have them on the edge of their seats throughout the entire book. The story begins with our main character, Veronica "Ronnie"Billings, being a proud Leader at a camp for girls to prepare them for the Letting. She's well-known and loved by the girls and she's glad to help them get through the ritual and then to their bright futures in the New World. At least that's what she's thought for the last several years - what her government has told her. When Ronnie is kidnapped by the rebels known as the "Peaceful Revolution," she discovers that she's been a pawn for a horrific government plot. She also meets Phoenix - the leader of the rebels - the guy who's supposed to be her sworn enemy; and ultimately the guy she falls in love with. Together, Ronnie and Phoenix devise a plan to put an end to the corruption in the government, as well as stop the impending rebel coup. Will Ronnie be strong enough to save her country, Phoenix, and herself when the time comes?

I thought this was a very well written book with a fascinating and original plot. The story was a bit confusing at the beginning, but once everything was explained (about the Lettings, the New World, etc.) - it took off at full speed and didn't let up until the ending. This isn't your average dystopian novel that has a corrupt and evil government that's doing terrible things without the people knowing. The author put a new spin on that main concept and created a world full of horrific acts along with truly unique characters that come together to make a fantastic novel. I loved Ronnie as the main character. We're seeing more smart and touch female leads in books - and Ronnie definitely fits this category. She's very patriotic and took pride in being a Leader for her government. But once she finds out what's really happening - she won't stand for it and will fight to the end to fix things - even if it means risking her own life. I have to admit that even though I saw the whole romance thing between Ronnie and Phoenix coming, I still loved every bit of it. I liked reading about them get to know each other and watching as their relationship grew and changed throughout the book. The writing was very well done - it was a bit confusing at first for me as I tried to figure out what the Letting was and everything else that was going on. Once we know what's going on, the pace really picks up and it doesn't slow down until the very end. I found myself eagerly reading as fast as I could to see what was going to happen next. There was a great amount of tension and suspense in the story along with the dystopian aspects and the romance - among other things. I definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoy a wide variety of genres - the book has something to offer everyone. I suggest you give it a try - even if it's not usually your style - and I think you'll be happily surprised by what you find inside the pages.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Diane Ehlers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on Paranormal Sisters: http://paranormalsisters.blogspot.com...

*Was given a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review*

I haven't read a Dystopian in a long time so this was quite refreshing from my previous reads! The Letting is gripping, intense, and fast-paced! The story moves along quickly and in a matter of pages Ronnie is kidnapped by a small group of rebels. Here we find out how truly corrupt the government is in trying to stay young forever and Ronnie sees all the wrong she's done by helping bring the young girls to them.

I knew what the letting meant in this world but why they were doing this to these young girls, I didn't understand why. When the truth came out I was sitting on the edge of my seat, not being able to turn the pages fast enough! Absolutely an intense moment and where I got to see how truly sick the government was! Though at this moment a piece of the story fell into place and I was dying to get to the moment where Ronnie was going to learn the truth behind this one object her mother was so adamant about. Of course she didn't figure it out till halfway through the book but I let it slide because there was so much going on, she didn't have time to stop to breathe!

Even I had to set it down so I could take a breather haha. This book is action packed, full of heart pumping scenes and full of twist and turns that I didn't see where this was going! I like books where you can't see the ending, it keeps you on your toes! And once I got to the last page I was dying to get my hands on the next book!

Overall I truly, truly enjoyed this and I'm excited to see where things go in the sequel! Just wow, beautifully written, I couldn't get enough! And the truth about the government warmed this horror lovers heart, definitely a refreshing read!

[Lelia Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

When we first meet Ronnie, she's a sort of camp counselor but this camp is unlike any we've ever seen. For starters, the kids (all young girls) are housed together by blood type, the first hint we have that this may not be a wonderful place. Blood type O, by the way, is almost extinct and that matters because O is the universal donor.

We can't be sure in the beginning precisely what's going on because the author has created a maze of facts and suppositions but, once I started to catch on, I was enthralled by the premise and by Ronnie herself. This girl, kept in the camp for years, ostensibly because there's something wrong with her blood, has made a name for herself as uniquely adept with the children who need to be prepared for the Letting. The Letting is an ordeal but the rewards are great---so they say---and Ronnie has never questioned her part.

Until one night when all will go topsy-turvy and Ronnie will learn what she's really been doing.

I felt a real attachment to Ronnie and to a number of other characters. Phoenix, in particular, is an appealing young man and I thought his relationship with Ronnie grew naturally, only moderately taking on the dreaded aspect of insta-love. Ronnie became a force to be reckoned with right before my eyes while holding on to her essential kindness and other players, while not nearly so "nice", shall we say, were vividly drawn and, in more than one case, made chills run up and down my spine.

Worldbuilding is not entirely clear but that's okay because we haven't heard all the story yet. I don't especially want to know all the details at this point; I'm hoping a second book is in the works and the author will share more ;-)

Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, December 2014.

[Gabby (What's Beyond Forks?) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?

This was a unique story in which society is selfishly using the blood of young girls to stay young and healthy, and they've about used up all that's left, both stored and from the living. Veronica has spent her life dedicated to her government without fully knowing what she was really supporting. I think that is something we see in real life every day. When she's faced with the harsh reality, we see what she's really made of. Through most of this book, I didn't trust any of the characters. Everyone seems to have an agenda. I'm starting to pick favorites, but I'm still unsure.

I wanted to rate this a 4 so bad, but there are a few things holding me back. For example, the writing was choppy. Mostly in the first half. The characters would be one place one moment, and then somewhere else in a different situation the next with no segue to let you know anything changed. Also, how did Phoenix survive? I need to know these things!

The story pulls me in though. The romance was intriguing. The characters were very real. It shows the nature of people for what they are. Kind of like the walking dead. If you watch that show, you know it's not really about the zombies. Its about human nature. That's how I felt with The Letting, and I loved that about this book.

The Letting by Cathrine Goldstein was kindly provided to me by YA Bound for review. The opinions are my own.

[Crina | booktwist_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Original post on http://readingadd.blogspot.ro/ as part of the blog tour.

So, apparently I'm the only one who doesn't love this book, and I don't know if I should be dissapointed or just say that it wasn't for me. Or that the way in which it was written it wasn't for me.

I wanted to read this and I read it because the cover looked nice and the synopsis was pretty good, but from the first chapter I felt that I couldn't get into the story. But I told myself that I should keep reading and reading, and maybe I'll like it more. Because it happened to me with other books, to dislike them at the beginning and love them at the end.

But this didn't work. The whole story was and remained confusing for me, I couldn't understand or sympathize with the characters, I didn't care very much of what was going to happen or what was going to be revealed to us next. And it wasn't because I didn't try, because I kept reading until the last page, but because this novel for me felt empty, it didn't had emotions, feelings, and sometimes the description bored me to death. And about the love story I don't want to talk about.

For me this is a big no and won't say that I regret reading it, but I'm not happy either. But maybe you'll love it, like other people did. Maybe you're not like me, a single person, disliking it. Maybe you'll love it and you'll like the characters and the story and the action... and everything.

[Peggy Jaeger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't usually read YA but the tagline on this book just "spoke" to me so I had to see what it was all about - and DAMN! am I glad I did!

What if the devil doesn't know he's the devil?
What an amazing premise.
THE LETTING is, for lack of a better description, a dystopian novel about how greed can destroy the world.
But it is so much more than just that.
Veronica Billings is a heroine I would love to have for a daughter: kind, considerate, loyal and loving, she is also smart, sassy and cunning when she needs to be. Placed in her care, young girls are groomed for a time when they are brought to "THE LETTING" to be systematically drained of their special type O blood to help ensure their race lives on, and then rewarded with a life spent in comfort and love.
Or that is what Veronica and her girls have been led to believe.
I don't want to give too much away about the plot because it twists and turns on a dime, but suffice it to say I was riveted from beginning to end.
Goldstein's "voice" spoke to me from the first paragraph. I could actually see this young girl, Veronica Billings, as she narrated her story; I could feel every emotion she ran through, and all her responses and actions were so spot on for a 17 year old, I swear, Goldstein must be the same age!
Do yourself a favor and if you haven't indulged in a new genre lately - no matter how old you are ( and I'm not young!) read THE LETTING. You won't be disappointed.

[Marisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had a premise that was completely unique to me. The dystopian approach wasn’t something I’ve encountered before, which was a refreshing and interesting twist though a little creepy. The characters are extremely well developed too, which I related to very well. Veronica goes through some reasonable changes in her attitude towards the government and Phoenix so I was able to forgive the insta-love that could have otherwise felt like a bit much.

At times I was a little confused as to where the plot was going, but it gave the story more of a thriller vibe than a more predictable young adult book. It took a bit for the style to grow on me, but in the end I enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to reading the sequel in the New Year! Just be forewarned, there is a definite cliff hanger ending.

Warning: Contains violence and some sexual content.

Who should read it? Dystopian fans who are interested in a mild thriller or horror twist!

Please note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review courtesy of the author.

See all my reviews and more at www.ReadingToDistraction.com or @Read2Distract

[Michael Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catherine Goldstein’s The Letting grabs the reader from the beginning and doesn’t let go. Readers will root for and cheer on the novel’s seventeen-year-old hero, Veronica Billings. The YA novel offers a chilling vision of the not-so-distant future.

Idealistic and patriotic Veronica Billings discovers to her horror she’s been the New World’s most successful executioner. With no one to trust she sets out to make things right. With her handsome, but sworn enemy at her side, the seventeen-year-old races to rectify the past, save those she cares for and preserve humanity’s future before she becomes the next victim of The Letting.

[Wendy-Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very fortunate to receive the ARC of this stellar YA novel from the author. The story draws you in immediately and never lets you go. Highly recommended.

[Shawna Shauntia · Rating 4 out of 5]

So who authorized a cliffhanger. Unacceptable! I needed to know what's going to happen next and I would like that to happen sooner than later. The Letting just happens to be my first experience with Cathrine Goldstein's work and I will say that I was quite impressed. I was out in the mindset of Hunger Games meet In Time (Justin Timberlake and Dakota Fanning). Immediately within the first few pages I was drawn in and my attention didn't wonder did the most part. I have to admit there were few spots that I told my eyes and began to become irradiated with everything and everyone, but it all without in the end.

"What if the Devil doesn't know he's the Devil ?"

This just happens to be the million dollar question the great, Veronica Billings is faced with. For years her ignorance has lead countless of young girls down a path of false hours and dreams. While I attempted to understand  she was left in the dark for so long, I just couldn't wrap my mind around how little she knew. I felt like don't you ever wonder or ask questions. This new world / way of life leeching (literally) was mind blowing and inhumane.

Veronica's world is sent into orbit once her path crosses with a few rebels that have it out for her. Especially the leader Phoenix. The energy between these two was so electrifying everyone in proximity could feel it too. What started as the utmost contempt morphed into something they could not and did not want to deny for each other.

Everything about The Letting was enjoyable even the intermittent annoyance because of the angst of it all. The flow of the writing kept my undiagnosed ADD at bay. Even the secondary characters were interesting and added much to the storyline. I'm not sure why I don't read more dystopian because I'm slowly being a fan of it. What I do know is that when Ms. Goldstein announces the sequel I will definitely indulge.

[Jennifer Ricketts (Donnie Darko Girl) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a review copy of this book for my stop on the blog tour at Donnie Darko Girl.

How would it feel to find out that what you thought you were doing was patriotic and serving your country but was actually causing hundreds of deaths? This is exactly the predicament Veronica (Ronnie) finds herself in when she's caught by a group of rebels out in the woods, and her world has effectively been turned upside down.

In The Letting, humans have gone nearly extinct after heavily relying on technology to do everything for them - so much so they've forgotten how to have human-to-human contact. One of the reasons this book was chilling to me was that we are very reliant on technology right now. I've heard many people say they'd rather deal with a machine than another human being, such as using a self checkout line at the grocery store rather than having a clerk check them out. So many times I've seen each member of my family sitting in the same room but each of us are staring at our individual cell phone or laptop screens.

I was dying to know what kind of process the Letting actually is especially once I realized what the names of the cabins refer to. You're kept in suspense for a while as to what it entails because Ronnie herself has been in the dark about it. I liked not knowing because it allowed my mind to run rampant with all kinds of horrifying possibilities, and when I found out what happens to the young girls after Ronnie has prepared them at camp - well, it's terrifying to think about.

The way Ronnie talks about these girls "paying their debt to society" by being part of the Letting makes it sound like they've done something wrong and are being punished. In our society, that's what we say about people serving time in prison, that they're paying their debt to society. So it gave me chills when she talked about the girls this way without realizing what was going to happen to them.

Phoenix is the leader of the rebels who capture Ronnie in the woods, and he was a terrific character. I looked forward to seeing if the two of them were going to work together to bring down their corrupt government, and if they ended up working together, how they were going to do it and if they'd end up successful.

On the other hand, I hated Gretchen, Ronnie's friend. I think she's a coward and probably one of the worst friends in the history of friends. I have a hard time reading about weak female characters, and she's definitely one of the weakest I've come across in a while. Ugh!

The world Cathrine Goldstein has created in The Letting is terrifying because it's so realistic but also hopeful for the very same reason. Hope is something Ronnie struggles with as she comes to terms with how she's been used and how she plans to retaliate in order to save the lives she wasn't able to before. The Letting had me riveted, and I can't wait to find out what happens next.

[Caro [The Book Rogue] · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting story, I liked it! The concept of a luxury capital where people have it all to waste, oppressing the rest of the people who live in poverty always makes a good dystopia. Add in the promise to stay young forever, and it only gets better. I find the cost of the blood and life of young girls particularly savage, and the mating system to ensure all blood types, which is naturally reliable to fail, right along with it. But the real savage dystopias are always the best, in my opinion.

Both Phoenix and Veronica were very likable characters, a good mix of rational and emotional, selfless, and generally good at heart.
Veronica was always trying to do the right thing by the girls, wanting for them what she would never have for herself, all the while trying to make the best of what she has at hand. She was a good soul, yet hated for it -- how ironic is that? I especially liked that twist!
Phoenix was a sweetheart. Tall, dark, handsome. Smart, sometimes boyishly cute, and not a bad boy at all. His vision of peace and equality, achived all non-violent... only hearts like his can truly change a world.
They made a very nice match too, although the spark from Ronnie was just a tad too insta those first two encounters, but after that they made reasonable progress, I'd say.
Brooke and Raven made good additions to their team, because they all want the same thing, but have different attributes to contribute to their cause.

Farnsworth, the leader of the New World, was an enemy I'm not so sure of. Just like Ronnie, he confused me, and up til the last moment, I'm not sure what to make of him. Is he good or bad? The lesser of two evils? Could he change? Would he ever want to? Will he just use them to save himself, and then stab them in the back? Or would he actually listen, and learn from mistakes? I'm not even sure I want him to... No, really, I don't know if I like him one bit or not at all.

The plot was a little up and down, going in circles. Camp - taken to the city - tricked back to camp - willingly go to the city - escape to camp - and back again. Looking at it like that, it doesn't seem very well thought about, but the style and flow of the story were good. That ending, however... an all open-ends cliffhanger, screaming for a sequel. Plus, there wasn't nearly enough time for Raven to be Phoenix' adorable sister, and Ronnie bringing Brooke in just has to have a deeper meaning. So, yeah, definitvely a sequel. I'm waiting!

Area Scan: Idea: 3/5 -- Flow: 4/5 -- Vocab: 5/5 -- Plot: 4/5 -- Heroes: 5/5 -- Sidekicks: 5/5 -- Villains: 4/5 -- Romance: 3.5/5 -- Drama: 5/5 -- Suspense: 3/5 -- Action: 3.5/5
Overall: 4.5/5

[Naturalbri (Bri Wignall) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I Thought

How often in life do we think we are doing right, right by ourselves, right by others and right by the world; only to find out that we have been wrong all along?

Ronnie is about to take that realisation to a whole new level.

In the Letting, we experience love, hate, turmoil, changes of heart, passion and fear - not to mention the hours of sitting on the edge of our seats, waiting for what's coming next. We are taken into a dystopian world, where things are not what they seem, which is similar to most worlds. The words, written by Goldstein, flow from the pages, wrapping your mind into their web. From page one, you find yourself so utterly locked up in these words that you can't and don't want to stop reading.

At each turn in the plot, each surprising moment, you are taken aback, as it is so much more than you expected. Just like any good book or film, you are always trying to guess what could be next, but Cathrine has written her tale so well that it is impossible to fully guess what twist will be thrown at you next.

Throughout the story you take complete turns of heart. First you love Ronnie and think she is the best, then you despise her, soon you come to feel pain and sorrow for her, then you fall in love with her sworn enemy, finally, you may even learn to love them both. With so many changes of emotion, blended with the thrilling action taking place, this is one of the best dystopian reads of the year!

The characters have a fantastic amount of depth, allowing you to feel with and for them. They build the story and take you on the journey with them. The pace is perfect for the story. You are frequently bombarded with action, the plot moving swiftly forward, but you still have time to take in the deep emotion and get to know the characters.

Overall, I think this was a very cleverly written work of art. It is a story I will definitely be going back to read again and again, in the future. I would highly recommend this to anyone from YA to elderly, as it is one of the best dystopian reads I've read. It is highly addicted and you truly immerse yourself into the world of The Letting. I, for one, cannot wait until the next story comes out. I also will be looking to read the other works by Catherine Goldstein, as she is a fantastic writer.

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so FAN FREAKING TASTIC!.

Ronnie Girls for the "letting". She is so proud of her job and has earned some rewards for being so good at her job. She has prepared the most girls for the "letting" and considers herself a patriot. She loves and cares for every girl that comes under her charge. She works at a camp where girls are sent to prepare for their turn for the "letting".

Ronnie has always wanted to be part of the "letting" but has never been chosen. Now that she is considered a "woman" she doesn't think she will ever be able to go to the letting and be part of the "new world". So she takes her job as preparing her young girls very seriously.

Ronnie soon finds out that the "letting" may not be all it's cracked up to be. One night while out walking in the forest she comes upon a rebel by the name of Phoenix. Ronnie is Phoenix's sworn enemy, but Ronnie doesn't understand never having met him.

When Phoenix tries to convince her that the letting is killing the girls Ronnie refuses to believe. That is until things start to unravel.

Her best friend at the camp turns on her. Ronnie starts to believe what Phoenix is telling her, and begins to wonder how she is going to save her girls, yet not scare them.

Dang...When the description says "what if the Devil doesn't know he's the Devil"...it couldn't be more accurate. It's awesome. I honestly believed that Ronnie was the good guy, and so did she. When truths are revealed Ronnie's life will never be the same. Those who are rebels seem to be the good guys. It's so fabulously written.

This book was such a fun ride. I felt like I was Ronnie through the whole book. I could feel her compassion for her girls, and could feel her fear. I love, love, love it when an author completely draws me in. I love it when I am "IN" the book right with the characters. It makes my reading experience so much better...and lets me know I am reading a great book. In my opinion.

If you like suspense, intrigue, rebellions, and an unexpected romance, then you will enjoy this book. I certainly did!

Source: I received this book as part of a blog tour in return for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way for this review. These are my own PERSONAL thoughts on the book.

[Ayah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of The Letting fro YA bound books in exchange with an honest review.


This book is different than anything I have read lately. It is showing a darker, scarier aspect of how the human race might end up to be. The word Selfish is taken to a new level.


This book is like the story of Elizabeth Bathory , who killed virgins for her youth , with some kick ass plot twist.The story follows Veronica, who is a legend for sending the greatest amount of Lettings. What is a Letting? Something like getting blood withdrawal ! She used to think that she was serving the society, which turns out to be wrong. She is serving the government, yeah, but since it is a Dystopian novel, then it has to be a corrupted and serving its own agenda.


The only thing I did not like is how Veronica was so desperate to please everyone. She bored out with how everyone who point her previous mistakes, she had the urge to apologize. However towards the end, she seemed to have gone through some development in her character, making this book carry some great character development within it.


The world building was great. The way the author captured how simple the camp was and how fancy the houses and people on the other side were is amazing.


The story did not miss the element of Romance. Phoenix, who started as hating and despising her, ended up falling in love with her. However, he did not show it first. he was able to hide it under his previous disgust with what veronica has done in the past. On the Other hand, the person ruling this messed up society falls for veronica. Although he is supposed to be evil, yet the authors finds a way to make you like him at some points.


I did not know that there was a second book until the last page! The book ended with a cliffhanger that haunted me for a couple of days.


I absolutely loved this book and I am looking forward to read book 2 when it comes out.


I give The letting 4/5 stars and a (B+) according to my own rating scale.

[Farrah · Rating 4 out of 5]

With secrets and thrills, along with some sweet romance, The Letting was a fantastic YA read. I wasn't sure what to expect going into it, but I ended up really enjoying this lovely book.

Ronnie was a wonderful heroine. When she believed in something, she put her all into it, whether it was working for what he thought was a benevolent government or fighting for the innocents who would be harmed. She proved herself as clever, brave, and a force to be reckoned with. I really liked her.

Phoenix was also great. He had the same conviction in his ideals that Ronnie did and, like Ronnie, his first priority was protecting people rather than launching a bloody revolution. He was strong but also sweet and a really wonderful character.

The romance was lovely. Ronnie and Phoenix were well matched, both of them being total badasses. And, when these two teamed up, there was no stopping them. I thought they were great together.

The plot was good for the most part. It took me a couple of chapters before I was fully drawn in to the story. But, after that slow start, things really picked up and kept me engaged all the way through. My only other issue was that there needed to be a bit more on world-building. More explanation, back-story, that kind of thing. As it was, I was left with a few questions. However, this didn't stop me from enjoying the story. It had thrills, twists, and secrets that kept me on the edge of my seat. And the ending definitely has me curious about what will happen next.

The Letting was an excellent YA read that I really liked. It had romance, secrets, thrills, and plenty of danger that made it all the more enjoyable. YA loves, this is a book worth checking out.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Letting is about a dystopian world where blood is more valuable than gold. The rich live in 'The New World' and the poor live on the outskirts in camps, being raised to supply blood to the people of The New World. Veronica has led more children to the "lettings" than anybody in history, meaning she preps young girls by feeding them and training them so their blood is healthy before they are sent to donate their blood in The New World. When Veronica is told that everything she has ever believed is wrong and that she has been working for a corrupt government, her whole world falls apart and she must work together with a group of rebels to lead a peaceful revolution.

The Letting is an incredibly captivating dystopian novel. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. The book is well written and the world building is second to none. The characters are all well-written and relatable and Phoenix is a swoonworthy guy that leaves readers wanting more of him! I was slightly annoyed about Veronica's naivety, but I do understand her motives and way of thinking, I just wish she would use her initiative more. I'm so happy to hear this book is part of a series and I can't wait to carry on reading about this world since the ending left on a cliffhanger. I would definitely recommend reading The Letting, even if you aren't into dystopian novels, it will completely captivate you.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story line of a dystopian world where people are coupled to breed for The Letting. The Letting is how the privileged stay young and healthy.

Phoenix' job is to harvest. Veronica's job is to prepare the harvested for the letting but what if you found out that what you've always thought was right, was actually wrong. As the synopsis says, "What if the Devil doesn’t know he’s the Devil?"

So what is the letting? Ah, good question..........you must read the book for the answer. :-D You'll be glad you took the time to read this wonderfully written story.

[Rita Hesselbach · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an ARC for review purposes of the THE LETTING, and was captivated!
The characters are strong and vivid -- all excellent characters. The love story is sweet, sensual, and exciting. Although Veronica is only seventeen years old, her love for her charges represents motherhood throughout time.
Phoenix is the all-time hero. Both younger and older readers will find him manly, protective, and swoonworthy.
I understand there is a Book 2 -- can't wait! More, more, MORE!

[Laura Altom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for dystopian, and The Letting didn't disappoint. Loved the overall premise. Loved the world the author created. More description would have been appreciated as at times I struggled to get a clear mental image of scenes, but overall, I enjoyed the read!

[Louisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great book, really enjoyed it, and while the opening line of the synopsis is eye-catching, it does kinda get turned on it's head in this book, as she learns the truth about what's going on!

[Katie Hamstead · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF.

[Sonia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another dystopian YA. Ronnie, a camp counselor of sorts, prepares young girls, by feeding them, exercising them, and keeping them robust and healthy so that they can get ready for "the letting." As far as they know, "the letting" is their contribution to this selfless society and their passage into the "New World" where the streets are paved with gold (basically). The girls are split into four groups - A, B, AB, and O. Once you know that and the title, you can figure out what is going on.

So I was totally intrigued by the premise and really liked meeting Ronnie and her girls. But the pacing was off and the other characters really didn't hold my interest. Phoenix, the rebel leader, was boring. His and Ronnie's romance seemed rushed and forced. Gretchen is just confusing. Farnsworth is the worst supreme leader ever. Brooke was the only one that I wanted to know more about, but Ronnie's distrust and hatred of her basically sidelines her and her story, which was disappointing.

This book ends on with a cliffhanger and it's obvious there are more books in the series, but I'm not sure I'll read the rest. It was a quick read, so I might at some point.

[Aly · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book has me so torn... for one, I think the story is great, the idea behind it is very captivating; however, I HATED the author's writing style. I felt like the story was incredibly rushed and the characters very shallow. It was hard to keep track of how fast time was moving in this story, making the story very unbelievable. I also felt like the characters didn't have enough depth, and made very irrational decisions/actions. It was hard to relate to any of them. I feel the author could have had a really great dystopian series with this had she broken the story up more, spent more time evolving her characters, and somehow added some verbiage on how much time was passing between events happening.

I think relationships take time and interaction and her characters seemed to just spark up hate/love/anger with each other at the drop of a hat, it seemed as if every relationship was a rollercoaster instead of a progression of feelings/happenings. I don't think I'll continue with the second book despite being curious about the storyline. I just didn't bond with any of the characters and that's something I really need in order to enjoy a book.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Letting was a twisted tale of just how far blind trust can push people to certain extremes.

Elizabeth Bathory eat your heart out.

Instead of one sadistic person who believes the blood of the innocent can keep them young and healthy, you will find an entire civilization who thrives on this, no matter the cost, as long as they and their own children are safe from the cost of this desire .

[Rachael Eliker · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Letting was a quick YA Dystopian read, where the main character, Veronica, discovers her world is a sham and that she's been unknowingly leading others into danger. Goldstein created an interesting and broken world, that is on the verge of collapse, where Veronica Billings finds herself trapped in the middle of three different power struggles. One leader, Phoenix​ is the idyllic hero while his polar opposite, Farnsworth, makes my skin crawl. Goldstein is a very descriptive writer and I was immediately pulled into the broken world where Ronnie lives. I'd like to continue the series to see what happens.

[Laura Redmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a long while since I read a Dystopian and so glad I read this one!

The Letting started out a bit confusing for me at first, while the author explained what the letting is. Once you understand it though, the story Flys forward with non stop action, adventure, romance, and a patriotic heroine.

I couldn't put it down once it picked up its pace. I was loving it. I look forward to book 2 and to read more from this Author.

****I received this ARC in exchange for an honest Review.****

Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review

[Ash Kemp · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book starts off a bit slowly but once you get into the thick of it, the pace hardly gives you time to blink. Though I was left a bit confused and wanted to get to know some more about the characters, I understand this is the first in a series, and after reading the second book, feel it is a good lead in. A wholly original take on the dystopian genre, will chill you to the bone and have you asking all kinds of questions, priming you for the next leg of the journey.

***copy received in order to review the next book, only exchanged with my honest opinion***