I can’t believe I’m thinking of going up against the Ministry. But what other choice do I have? This world is in shambles because of them. I’m learning now that people need something to believe in, something to inspire them to act. When they have it, they’re capable of great courage.
And there is already talk of that something. That something is us. For the first time in probably their entire lifetimes, people have hope. The realization and enormity of it all, the weight of who I am and what my mission truly entails, sends chills down my spine. Noah and I, we are Chosen.
Still, this wondrous gift and this ability to restore life to a dying world, as amazing as it is, presents us with problem after problem. Where do we go? Where do we hide? Who is on our side? And the biggest question of all… will it be worth it?
C.B. Stone is sometimes called author, writer, or purveyor of stories. One might even dub her a yarn spinner, if you will. It’s very possible she might be considered just a little left of normal by most, but she’s cool with that. Really, she’s too busy avoiding normal to care.
On any given day, you might find Stone pounding away at a keyboard in sunny Florida, contemplating waves, contemplating life, and dreaming up more exciting stories to share with readers. Except Sunday’s of course. Sunday’s are God’s day, so you’ll often find her making her best “joyful noise” with her local church praise team.
When not pounding poor fingers to bloody nuggets and reinventing the definition of eye strain, C.B. Stone enjoys living it up, doing the family thing, the kid thing, and the friend thing. And in her downtime, reading the minds of fans.
This book felt rushed. Honestly, the whole "trilogy" should have been a singlr book. There was no reason to drag the story out into the books, especially since each one was so short.
*I received an ARC copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
This is the conclusion to the Absence of Song trilogy. This was probably the strongest of the three novels. Was it perfect? No, nothing is. But it was really good. Here are some of my thoughts about why.
In the previous installment we got a dual perspective narrative with first person narration from both Jaelynn and Noah. Here we get even more with the inclusion of Fay and Marcus. I love multi perspective stories. They just work really well. Sometimes having only one main focus just doesn't give you enough of what is going on. I though that the different perspectives was a great touch here. The voices were similar, but distinct, so that was handled really well.
One of the things I enjoyed here was that it delved more deeply into some of the societal problems. Sometimes stories can be too rushed, leaving out detail, so I was glad that this one actually addressed these concerns. And having a view from someone within the Ministry was a nice touch.
I also thought that Jaelynn and Noah were very cute. The development of their relationship was nice. I hate when things are too rushed and I thought the pacing was done well here. The story also follows a very religious track, which is nice.
This was a really fun, fast read. It's perfect for a quick read when you need something enjoyable but not too fluffy.
In Chosen Jaelynn and Noah, the Chosen, are trying to hide from the Ministry. They stumble on all kinds of towns or cities that are pretty lifeless. When they come into Bethel the people are waiting for them. This is where it really gets good. The armies are getting mobilized and will all be together within a few days when the Ministry air craft find them. Fay, Bethels commander, and the rest of her troops are saved by the Wellington forces with their new (better than the Ministry) weapons. I don't want to give away any spoilers so I'm going to stop that thought there.
But I will tell you that the safe haven Jaelynn and Noah are taken to seems like a wonderful place. Its full of sunshine and peace. Oh yeah, Jaelynn and Noah FINALLY admit their true feelings. It was about time!
There are also a lot of character surprises mixed in. Some people are not who we though they were. And yes, it does make the books better.
The ending is probably the worst for me. I want more info. Okay, I want another book, or few :) Seriously though, this is a great series for Christians and non-believer alike. Views are not pushed on you and you can believe whatever you want while reading this series(and still get stuck into it). C.B. Stone is now on my favorite author list, and I will be reading her other books also!!
Traveling at night and resting days, Noah and Jaelyn race to escape the Ministry. They are Chosen, blessed with special gifts to help save the earth and it's people/creatures. These gifts continue to grow. Word of their abilities has even spread through the distant towns they pass through. Tired and weary, they trudge on. They come to a large town. No, it's a city! With large homes, buildings and a city center. But, where are the people? The buildings are empty and the streets deserted. Yet, they sense...something. They turn in circles looking for movement. They stop moving, speaking quietly together. That's when they hear it! Suspense, mystery, love and belief are all experienced in this, the final Absence of Song book. Expect the unexpected as the pieces fit together in amazing fashion. The writing is superb and the strong characters come to life before your eyes! Received this book free for an honest review.
I really did love this book. The sergeant what I had expected but. Still. I really did enjoy it. It gives new meaning to hope and love especially in a world as we know it is so lost. I recommend this series it's a must read.
I was pleased with how the series ended but there were so many pages that seemed unimportant and draggy. I could have skipped the 2nd book all together. All that said, I appreciate the idea of Christian Dystopian fiction and I hope to see more of it!