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I live in a world where freedom doesn't exist, and life is a battle for survival. Most people aren't even allowed to have names.

But I had a name once. I was Allura until the Wardens captured me.

They told me I was a Nameless. That I was no one, and my sole purpose was to obey them. And, for a while, I believed them.

I spent years living underground in the channels beneath the city, dreaming of being outside again. I never thought it would happen. That I'd die in the darkness of my cell.

But then three guys show up in the channels and my fate suddenly changes.

Blaise, Ryder, and Reece are part of a secret group working to take down the Wardens and help rescue the Nameless. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I might survive.

But the outside world isn't like how I remember. The city has become even more dangerous, especially for the Nameless. To survive, I'll have to learn how to trust the guys and live in a world full of crime where almost everyone is hunting for me.

141 pages, Nook

First published February 7, 2016

191 people are currently reading
1839 people want to read

About the author

Jessica Sorensen

422 books20.1k followers
Jessica Sorensen is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author from the snowy mountains of Wyoming. When she's not writing, she spends her time reading and hanging out with her family.


http://www.jessicasorensen.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jessica...

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5 stars
676 (34%)
4 stars
654 (33%)
3 stars
448 (23%)
2 stars
122 (6%)
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33 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
Profile Image for ✦❋Arianna✦❋.
790 reviews2,552 followers
February 19, 2016
4.5 Stars!!

description

Well…I think this was one of the best book I’ve read by this author. I honestly was a little reluctant to start this one since it’s a dystopian/fantasy novel. While I enjoy from time to time watching a dystopian movie, I can’t say the same when it comes to reading this book genre. Jessica Sorensen surprised me in a very good way with "Nameless". She delivered an intriguing, unputdownable story that not only held me captive the entire time, but left me wanting more.

”What if the world I dream of doesn’t exist? What if what’s out there now is all that’s out there? What if this world is just the channels and the wardens and violence and emptiness?”


“Nameless” is the first book in the series and started with a fascinating setting that had me hooked immediately. Our heroine named Allura or number ‘five-two-eight-seven’ is a girl who is held captive in a cell. She doesn’t even remember for how long she’s there. Almost every day she is left in the dark, starving and freezing. She is beaten and used by “visitors” who pay for people like her named “Nameless”. She doesn’t understand how they use her, but she knows she can’t handle it anymore.

Her life starts to change for the better when three boys - Blaise, Ryder and Reece come to rescue her. At first Allura is scared by them, but slowly they earn her trust. Outside she’s more than clueless. She remembers another world, a world that it’s possible to be existed only in her mind. Allura’s adventure begins on the way to the Broken City. As the story unfolds we find out many things about this strange world, about people/creatures named wardens, watchers, tracker and chasers and also about our heroine who seems to play an important role in this new unique society.

“Is this what it’s like to be normal, to live outside of the cells? Will I ever be like this?”


I would have never expected to enjoy a dystopian novel as much as I enjoyed this one. Once again Jessica Sorensen’s writing was flawless and she portrayed this new strange, unique world in a very intriguing way. I think the pace of the story was perfect for this kind of novel – not to fast-paced to confuse the reader, but not too slow-paced to bore him to dead either. The plot is well build and there are some twists and also revelations that for sure held me at the edge of my seat.

Allura was a heroine I liked and connected with from the start. Even if she seems weak, she’s a tough cookie. She’s smart and determined to survive. The three guys are not as developed as Allura’s character, but what I found out about them I liked. All of them are great with Allura, protective, attentive and caring. I enjoyed the fact the three of them are so different from each other and their dynamic was pretty entertaining.

The romantic aspect was not developed at all in this first installment or at least not as developed as I would have liked it to be, so I wouldn’t mind the next installment to have more romance.
There are mystery and also suspense that will keep your interest and also some villains that you'll want to punch in the face.

Overall, this first book in Jessica’s new series was awesome, with a thrilling plot, engaging characters and an ending that left me wanting more.

Overall, a great gripping read! Can’t wait to see what happens next!
Profile Image for Jennifer Kyle.
2,615 reviews5,407 followers
February 10, 2016
5 STARS

”What if the world I dream of doesn’t exist? What if what’s out there now is all that’s out there? What if this world is just the channels and the wardens and violence and emptiness?”

description

Wow this is a completely engaging story that I couldn’t read fast enough. Jessica Sorensen has a stellar plot with this book and I highly suggest she stay with these characters and flow their lead to whether they take her. This has the makings of an EPIC series and I could totally see this book playing out on a big screen….yep that’s how much potential she has with this book!

description

The story starts with our heroine who is shackled in a cell for god knows how long being used by others for purposes she doesn’t quite know. She’s starving, used up, and barely hanging on when a hot guy trio comes in to rescue her. Yep all three of these guys are pretty fantastic! Breaking out of captivity has it’s downfalls as the world outside doesn’t match in the slightest to memories or dreams that she has been having.

description

The hot guy trio are trying to get Allura to the safety of the Broken City but they are attacked and end up staying at the East City Post. Here some revelations are made and Allura still seems to be highly tracked by the Wardens who were her captors.

”Allura,” it hisses. “Allura, I’m coming for you.”

description

Allura doesn’t know anything about the world outside her cell and so as a reader we learn right along with her what this society is all about. The group is still on course for the Broken City and am super excited to see what answers she finds there about who she is and her importance to this world. Love interest wise, if the author plans on going in that direction hmm it’s a hard choice but I’m going with Blaise for our girl.

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Bring on FORSAKEN and if you wish to increase this series in total of books I wouldn’t be complaining at all. I would love for the author to spend the whole year or more in this story because she’s really got something special here!

description
Profile Image for Jilly.
1,838 reviews6,693 followers
June 25, 2016
It had promise, but it just didn't quite get there. Since the book ends at 118 pages and just drops off in the middle of the story, I would rather have waited until a whole book was written than to read the partial story we were given. Just call me when it's done.


Yeah, she left us hanging...

So, we have Allura, considered a "nameless" and locked in a cell for who-knows how long. We never find out what a "nameless" is, so don't expect to find out what the book title means. We know that Allura was one, and yet she has a name. This is suspicious to me.


exactly...

Not-nameless Allura is rescued by three guys who work for some sort of group, I guess, who maybe does this a lot? Okay. And, although Allura remembers blue skies and grass somehow, the sky is now red and there is no grass. Why? We don't know. That's just how it is since these beings took over the world. Who are they and where did they come from? We don't know that either. There are theories out there. Most likely. Look, would you stop asking so many questions? The world is screwed by a mysterious race and they call people with names nameless. That's the deal.


what are you anyway, a cop?

So, they are driving out of the prisonish place (or whatever the place was where Allura was held. It's nameless - hey! Maybe that's how the book was named! Finally, some answers.) And, they get into a car accident by being chased by something that may or may not be a mechanical snake. Then, two of them get to an underground bunker and go to a bar. Okaaay. That would be my first stop too. Then, stuff happens and it ends in the middle of the story.



Basically, if you want an intro of a story, that brings up more questions than answers, and is possibly leading to a love quadrangle, then this is your book.
Profile Image for Maida (Medley of Books).
1,910 reviews517 followers
May 6, 2016

RATING: 4.25 Hearts!! :)

Nameless is a fast-paced, enthralling read, plunging us into a dangerous world alongside heroine Allura as we discover her memories—as they come in flashes—and elude the Wardens and the Grim on a suspense laden and thrilling journey.

Allura is a young woman, a “Nameless”, captured and caged for use by the Grim. She’s clueless as to why she’s special to them, but no matter how dire her thoughts in captivity, her actions prove her to be brave and strong-willed as she fights at every chance to remain alive. When she gets rescued by Blaise, Reece and Ryder—feeling helpless and mistrusting of them—as events unfold, she allows herself to open up to new possibilities full of hope instead of clinging to despair. She does on occasion get defeated when she can’t make headway with the new world and her memories, but she only wallows for brief moments before she snaps herself out of it and restores her resolve.

“What if the world I dream of doesn’t exist? What if what’s out there now is all that’s out there? What if this world is just the channels and the wardens and violence and emptiness?”

The romance, while a very subtle (hardly existent) presence in comparison to the world-building and epic adventure to Broken City, leaves much potential for future books. Though not strictly a love square, there’re hints of it, but Blaise remains the frontrunner in that regards (for me personally).

Overall, Nameless, despite being short in length, will delight lovers of young-adult adventure and dystopia, guaranteeing its spot on many a shelf of favourites.



Posted: May 4, 2016
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,986 reviews210 followers
February 11, 2016
She's done it again! Jessica has pulled me into another world that I love and need to know more about! I couldn't read this book fast enough!! LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!

Nameless is the first book in Jessica's newest series. It's a world like we have never known or read about it. It's a world where humans are the bottom of the food chain and The Grim rule everything.

Allura is a Nameless. She is clueless to what is happening around her. She is rescued by three men but she is very hesitant to trust them. Her interactions with others has never been positive, to say the least.

The trio of men and Allura are on their way to the Broken City and try to uncover more things as to who she is and why she is so unique. It's on these travels that many things happen and we learn so much about this world. I can't say for sure if Jessica plans on adding any sort of romance into this book (it's so good without it!) but if she were to add it and lean towards a particular one, my vote is for Blaise. Just saying.

What I absolutely love about this book - is how we learn about this whole, unique and different this world is - through the eyes of Allura. She is seeing everything for the first time and it's so interesting to view it from her perspective.

I have no idea how many books the author plans to write in this series (I am praying more than 2), but I am hoping she is giving us a ton because I can easily get so lost in this story for a LONG time.

I can't wait for Forsaken to come out, which thankfully we don't have to wait too long for.
Profile Image for Christine (Shh Moms Reading).
1,454 reviews569 followers
February 8, 2016
This was a great start to a new series by Jessica Sorensen. There was a lot of world and character building in this one and I am left wanting more! Can't wait for Forsaken!
Profile Image for Jess-i-ca .
792 reviews769 followers
February 10, 2016
To be continued...

It was great! Just too short! I need the next one!
Profile Image for Booknut 101.
849 reviews995 followers
February 10, 2016
Allura is stuck in a cell.

http://25.media.tumblr.com/346d4971e2e8de1c61789a3a8eca9586/tumblr_mzk4rxmTQq1radm2mo1_500.gif

Nope, not one as tv-friendly as that (and definitely vodka-free!). She's stuck in a practically bare cell, stripped of her dignity, her past, and her name. Allura is a Nameless and her #1 job is to be a feeding source for the visitors who pay to suck her life force from her.

Sounds...pleasant. Right?

It also sounded vaguely familiar. Now, I'm not saying that it's 'stealing', or 'copying' from another book. But there were some surprising similarities between this book...and Tahereh Mafi's Shatter Me.

First off, there's a girl stuck in a cell. With no outside light. Who's been there for so long she starts to think that her memories of the outside world aren't real.

She's also powerful. They've kept her in that cell because she's 'special' and has powers beyond her understanding.

The girl gets busted out of this prison by a male figure (or in Nameless' case male figures). Male figure/s are h-h-hot.

A psycho male is looking for her and is hunting her down.

Male figure/s are a part of a rebellion movement or a group of people who want the world to be a better place, etc. etc. etc. The girl then goes on a journey with male figure/s to get to their HQ/safe place.

Girl finally gets the chance to clean up and get clean clothes and suddenly she is SO BEAUTIFUL AND THE MALES CANNOT FUNCTION.

I could go on...but I won't so your sanity can remain intact!

Look: I get that similarities between texts isn't a bad thing. Plenty of authors have shared base concepts and have created unique books that have blown my mind.

Honestly, the only reason this book isn't 4 stars is because of my own horrid bookworm brain!! I couldn't stop seeing the similarities between the texts, which made Nameless somewhat predictable and hard to fully get into. I think it would be a great read for people who haven't read Shatter Me...and even for people who have. Nameless does feature a tonne of unique world concepts and dystopian twists. Plus, I know I will most definitely be reading any other books in the series when they're released because I am dying to find out what happens next ;)

So overall Nameless was a good book with solid concepts. You just have to turn your bookworm brain off for a few hours in order to fully embrace it!! XD
Profile Image for Tangerine.
642 reviews1 follower
February 11, 2016

5 STARS

MY FIRST 5 STAR of 2016!

This was a great start to this new dystopian series by Jessica Sorensen. I, absolutely, loved it! I was engaged from the very moment I started and I couldn't put it down until I was finished. I was sneak reading at work!

The pacing of this story was spot on. Everything was set up perfectly. I agree with another reviewer about this book playing out like a movie. I could visualize everything as I was reading. I felt like I was right there with Allura. I really enjoyed these characters and this world setting.

I, too, hope that we get more than two books with this series. I didn't want this one to end! I just loved it and I'm excited and all ready anxious to get the next one, Foresaken.
Profile Image for Mikky.
981 reviews282 followers
May 21, 2018
Originally posted at:


A Note: I schedule all my reviews months in advance and at the time of reading this book and writing this review there was no mention that it was a reverse harem story in the title or in the description of this novel.

This was quite a short book and I don't know how to feel about it. It was overall entertaining, but it wasn't mind-blowing. It was exactly what I was looking for at the time though.

I liked Allura as a character. She tries to be strong but she's not there yet. She makes up for that with intelligence and a little spunk. I'm curious as to what she is and it's complications in future books.

I liked the three men that rescued her, though I couldn't tell them apart for the life of me. They were all helpful and sweet to her, but no one left a lasting impression on me. I hope that changes in the other books in this series.

I found out, a little too late, that apparently this is a reverse-harem series (I.E. one girl, multiple guys). There was nothing romantic in this novel, which made me happy because reverse-harem stories aren't my thing. I'm hesitant to continue on in this series after finding that out, though the author doesn't mention it anywhere. I'm just confused at this point. Overall though this was an interesting book and the story was set up well.

My Favorite Quotes:

"You need to understand that some humans are equally as evil (...)."

"People wander out there, searching for something better, and never find it."

"That's the problem with legends. While sometimes they hold a hint of truth, it's hard to sort through all that nonsense."
Profile Image for Zili.
790 reviews
February 20, 2016

NAMELESS is the first instalment in Jessica Sorensen's latest YA series. The best way I can describe the book without giving anything away, is as a 'dystopian urban fantasy supernatural' crossover.

Allura is a Nameless. In her dark world Nameless are people with no freedom or control over their lives. They live in fear of the Wardens and are often trapped inside their own minds. When she is rescued she suddenly finds herself liberated but confused and frightened.

Allura has to learn who to trust and how to survive as something more than Nameless. Blaise, Ryder, and Reece offer her freedom but greater risk and danger. I really loved the concept and Sorensen's world-building really helped me to visualise this dark world and the different characters living in it.

There is a hint of future romance - I have a clear favourite when it comes to potential suitors for Allura, but I appreciated how the book is about far more than kissing and boy dramas.

NAMELESS serves as a solid introduction to a new series - it's full to the brim with potential. Plus I really liked the main characters.

4 Stars in my Sky!

I received a review copy.
Profile Image for BookPauper.
857 reviews29 followers
May 29, 2018
Really good start. I still have no idea what’s happening. You learn about the world along with Allura, so right now it’s basically nothing, but what I have read about so far is interesting and I have questions! And I want to know more!

I don’t know if there is supposed to be a romance that develops later but the choices are all pretty solid so I’ll be happy no matter what.
Profile Image for Veronika.
356 reviews110 followers
May 1, 2016
My 5-Facts Review ('Cuz I'm lazy busy reading):


NAMELESS BY JESSICA SORENSEN
★★★★☆ (4 stars)
________________________________

✔ Aside from a few typos, the writing was exceptionally good! The author certainly knows how to engage the readers and keep their attention.

✔ I loved the characters! Allura is one of the strongest heroines I've ever met and I couldn't have wished for better heros than Ryder, Blaise and Reece!

There wasn't any romance in the book, and it was perfectly fine this way! The romance wouldn't have fit naturally into this first installment and I'm grateful for the author for not trying to force it.

✔ The plot gives the readers the perfect opportunity to experience the world-building gradually and without the information overload that is often the case with dystopian or fantasy novels. The book is written in the heroine's pov, and it's fantastic to see the post-apocalyptic world through her eyes.

❌ My only problem with the book was that I didn't really see where the story was headed (probably because of its shorter length).
_________________________________

Genre: Young Adult/New Adult Dystopia, Sci-fi
Characters: Allura (heroine), Ryder, Blaise and Reece (heros)
POV: Heroine's pov (1st person)
Cliffhanger:
HEA:

Profile Image for Hollie.
1,680 reviews
March 21, 2016

The synopsis sounded interesting so I jumped right into this one.......... here's my breakdown:

The pros:
* Creative apocalypse/paranormal world created
* Well written and fast paced plot
* Offered as a kindleunlimited
* I really liked the heroine in this book -little things about her, for instance how she'd never seen a mirror and had no idea what she looked like - her character just came across as humble and almost innocent despite this horrible world

The cons:
* It was too short - I get that it was only the first book of the series but this read more like a "serial" rather than a first installment
* The book cover is dreadful
* I didn’t like the idea of a love triangle - 3 men rescue the heroine and they all seem to be smitten with her in some way- I wish the romantic interest had only been portrayed as a possibility between Allura and one of the men.
* I wasn’t a fan of the ending - while it wasn’t a brutal cliffhanger like many Ive come across, it just seems to end at an awkward part - this one didn’t even feel like a HFN, one page you were reading along, then BAM, advertisement for book 2.

All things considered, I was pleased with this read and will definitely check out book 2. I just hope this isn’t one of those series that keeps going and going. I want some closure in the foreseeable future.

Profile Image for Kristin Campbell.
Author 8 books180 followers
January 28, 2016
A great start to a new series! There's a lot of suspense and mystery that had me needing to know more.

I like how different the characters were. The serious one, the flirt, the mysterious one, and then the girl who is thrown into their lot.

I just want to know what's going on!
Profile Image for Rose Williams.
157 reviews16 followers
June 12, 2016
Pants, and other inconsistencies. But seriously, pants.

So, by reading the description of Allura's living conditions, I had an idea of what she looked like, smelled like, etc...

I imagined her being absolutely filthy, based on her treatment. We're talking caked in dirt, human waste, and blood. I doubt she ever had her hair brushed, resulting in tangled and matted hair that would probably have to be shaven. Oh, and her teeth! I figured the malnourishment and lack of hygiene would give her rotten teeth, possibly a few missing. I saw her dryer-sheet-thin t-shirt and LACK OF PANTS.

Taking inspiration from ex POWs and concentration camp survivors, I had a good idea of what she would be like. The psychological damage must have been crazy, right?

Uh... Not so much. I mean, initially she has her cute little stutter and small distrust of the guys, but she gets over that pretty quickly. Apparently, she was fine enough to try and pass off as not an escapee. Please, tell me how someone who was NEVER GIVEN PANTS and has been a prisoner for a gazillion years could possibly pass as normal.

Speaking of things that don't make sense, why is everyone flirting with her? First off, it's highly inappropriate, secondly, she honestly can't look that great.

All of the flirting was really distracting and seemed out of place.

Anywho, the story was interesting enough, albeit short and inconsistent. 2.5 stars, will continue to sequel.
Profile Image for Verna Loves Books.
426 reviews60 followers
February 13, 2016
Nameless by Jessica Sorensen is an exciting, suspenseful, and intoxicating story that will own you from the very beginning. As soon as I started I couldn’t put it down. I was captivated by the characters and their journey. There isn’t one dull moment in the whole book, it’s exhilarating.

Allura is such a wonderful character. I love the fact that regardless what is happening to her and what has happened, she still has fight in her. She never gives in to the darkness pulling her under; she goes in blazing and always comes back out. My heart was so constricted with all that she endures. It’s heartbreaking.

When she meets Blaise, Ryder, and Reece you are going to fall in love with each of them. They are beyond wonderful and three characters you won’t be forgetting. Each one of them is unique and I can’t wait to learn more about all of them. But I have to say my favorite is Blaise! He will own your heart, he sure did mine. I couldn’t help but want him and Allura to just fall madly in love and live happily ever after, but of course that’s not how it goes.

Just be prepared for the ending, you will be blown away! I was left with so many questions when the book ended. I am beyond ready for book 2.

So if you enjoy a book that is full of adventure, emotion and unique this is the book for you.

I give Nameless by Jessica Sorensen FIVE out of FIVE GRIM STARS!!
10 reviews18 followers
January 21, 2017
Such a promising beginning, and such a disappointing development...

The first several chapters, in which the main hero, Allura, is a prisoner of some aliens, are totally cool -- the atmosphere is filled with dread, suspense, Allura's inner strength, wardens' evilness. But then enter three "dashing heroes" who save the girl and everything goes to hell. After the guys explain the situation (which they do very vaguely) and Allura recovers from her years-long imprisonment (which she does in a matter of days) -- there is no action, there is no intrigue, there is no character development. The last exciting event happened in the middle of the book, and then everything became white noise.

At least it was a very short read, because normally I wouldn't even finish such a book.
Profile Image for Lynne.
37 reviews
February 21, 2016
I looooooove Jessica's books. I've read most of them and enjoyed every one.

This book would have been given a five star review but I feel lately that her books get shorter and shorter. I felt like I was three chapters into the book when this one ended.

I know that there are normally 3-4 books in every series but they used to feel like three full books each and now they feel like reading one normal sized book split into three.

Despite this I will continue to read her books because she is a great story writer.
Profile Image for Jennifer G.
2,882 reviews54 followers
March 7, 2016
What a great opening to a series. I was hooked immediately. Such originality, couldn't put it down. Where do Allura's memories come from? Why are they so different from the world as it stands now? Who are the Grim and how can humans be saved? Love the characters. Honestly can't make up my mind which guy is my favorite, although I may be leaning toward Blaise. And Allura, so frightened and lost, yet with such strength and innocence. Great cast of characters. And such a mystery. I have no idea where their story might take us, but can't wait to find out.
246 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2016
MY OPINION of Nameless.

Great start to what promises to be a good series. Looking forward to reading the continuation. As with just about all Ms. Sorenson's books..well written and with a good plot. I am just hoping that this doesn't turn out to be a love triangle or with horrible cliffhangers.
Will continue the series
4 reviews
March 3, 2016
The story just got started when I reached the end of the book. I am intrigued and will continue reading when the rest is released but it seems it is not a series but a single book split up and released in stages. This is more of a teaser. Full review pending more of the story.
Profile Image for Celine.
479 reviews
October 14, 2016
Nette Einleitung in die Geschichte und interessante Idee, aber mehr war es nicht. Es ist einfach nichts passiert in dem Buch...auch wenn das eine Reihe ist, rechtfertigt das nicht die fehlende Handlung in Band 1...
2,5 Sterne
Profile Image for Bethany Lyke.
378 reviews
February 14, 2016
4.3 STARS I'm so excited by this little series! I can't wait to see what the heck is happening!!!!!!
Profile Image for Cecilia.
602 reviews
June 11, 2018
This is a review for book 1 to 3.

This whole series started out strong and interesting, but over the course of the series so far I just don't give a darn about the characters.

And, I have to admit after book 1 I started to pretty much skim the series.
Allura is a strong character, but at times is annoying.
The guys all care about her, but like by book 3 I expect more kissing or something!!! I mean its suppose to be a RH book right? But, I don't really feel there for her that strongly. And, over times the world building can be too much if that makes sense.
And, all the books are super short.

I LOVE HER OTHER RH SERIES CAPTURING MAGIC. In that one the whole RH genre is done right.
And, even her new Cursed Hadley series isn't that bad.
The only thing that confuses me about the author is how she has rewrote so many books of her YA to be NA.
And another thing is she writes so many books at once. The first book came out in 2016 and its short as I mentioned. It's 2018 and the 4th book is not out yet!
I wished she just completed a series, and moved on to the next, but I understand she has so many series going on at once.
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