What do you think?
Rate this book
Sacrisvita #1
The Institution
Sage Indarra’s childhood is forever changed when tragedy strikes and she’s forced to enroll in Eprah’s Institution—a cold, unfeeling place determined to make her forget everything good about her old life.
It doesn’t take long for Sage to learn that her new home is not as perfect as they would have her believe.
Unsure who to trust, she’s forced to build her new life on a lie. And she begins to question everything she’s ever known.
She has to play along if she has any hope of escaping.
But the Institution is hiding some dark secrets. And they won’t let her leave.
Can Sage keep up the ruse she’s begun?
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2016
392 people are currently reading
485 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 13, 2017
The Institution (Sacrisvista Book I) — Dylan Steel (13 chapters) — Sept. 12-13, 2017
Typical dystopian story. May be aimed at the YA crowd, but it doesn’t feel as all encompassing age-wise as other books I’ve read. (Meaning older readers might not find this as engaging.)
This read far faster than I thought it would, but it felt depressing from the git-go, and it read more passive in structure than active. This reader neither never finds out what really happened at the beginning nor why the protagonist is here. That maybe done on purpose, but it made me feel lost.
I really didn’t understand the set up, or the plot, or even what Sacrisvista means. The latter is never explained.
I was happy to read this book, but I wasn’t sad to see it end. It was fine, but it really did nothing for me.
Two stars.
Typical dystopian story. May be aimed at the YA crowd, but it doesn’t feel as all encompassing age-wise as other books I’ve read. (Meaning older readers might not find this as engaging.)
This read far faster than I thought it would, but it felt depressing from the git-go, and it read more passive in structure than active. This reader neither never finds out what really happened at the beginning nor why the protagonist is here. That maybe done on purpose, but it made me feel lost.
I really didn’t understand the set up, or the plot, or even what Sacrisvista means. The latter is never explained.
I was happy to read this book, but I wasn’t sad to see it end. It was fine, but it really did nothing for me.
Two stars.
Want to read
August 13, 2017AMAZON KINDLE FREEBIE 6/27/17
April 18, 2019
So i have previously read this when it first came out but got side tracked by school and other books and decided to come back and read the series completely. So i like the story - kids are taken from parents (usually from birth) and are put in the Institution which instills Eprah's values into them. It is different seeing children aged 7 or so acting much more mature than what is normally seen in that age group but seeing the structure that is enforced at the Institution it doesn't surprise me that a level of maturity not normally associated with that age group has occurred. I think the idea of citizens having "chances" is pretty unique as its really strains the fact that you must be loyal to Eprah and disobedience among any age is strictly prohibited.
My main issues with this book is i found my self reading it quickly and wishing the book was longer - mind you that of course will not stop me from continuing the series because i want to know what happens next... but it seems more of the length of a Novella instead of a novel.
My main issues with this book is i found my self reading it quickly and wishing the book was longer - mind you that of course will not stop me from continuing the series because i want to know what happens next... but it seems more of the length of a Novella instead of a novel.
January 21, 2018
Fast paced book that was difficult to put down and pulled you into the action right away. It kept you guessing the entire time about what was happening, and you just had to keep reading to find out. The main character, Sage, is a seven year old child who has always been protected by her parents. One day they vanish while going into the nearby city for supplies. Sage goes in search for them, and finds herself plunked into The Institution in order that she may be indoctrinated into the nation's laws and ways of thinking. But all along, she has a vague sense that her parents were fighting against this very thing, and by opening her eyes she can see the evil that envelops them all.
October 15, 2017
Great book but too short
I really liked this book, it's a plot that really stretches the imagination. I'm really disappointed in how it ended, though. I was just starting to really get into it, feeling like it was maybe halfway through, when it abruptly ended. Because of the way that it ended & how short it was I probably won't read more of the series, which based on this book could probably all be put together as one book.
I really liked this book, it's a plot that really stretches the imagination. I'm really disappointed in how it ended, though. I was just starting to really get into it, feeling like it was maybe halfway through, when it abruptly ended. Because of the way that it ended & how short it was I probably won't read more of the series, which based on this book could probably all be put together as one book.
January 4, 2018
Slow-burned dystopia education school story
It is slow burned dystopia story on school with levels, not elementary, middle, or high school. What I see in future school in year? Maybe 100 or 200 years later from now.
It is slow burned dystopia story on school with levels, not elementary, middle, or high school. What I see in future school in year? Maybe 100 or 200 years later from now.
March 5, 2018
So you know - this book has no ending.
Since this series has many books I assumed that each had a beginning and ending. Unfortunately I was wrong. This book stopped as if at the end of a chapter, and while I enjoyed what there is I won't be reading anymore "chapters".
Since this series has many books I assumed that each had a beginning and ending. Unfortunately I was wrong. This book stopped as if at the end of a chapter, and while I enjoyed what there is I won't be reading anymore "chapters".
September 11, 2017
The Office of City Beautification was being notified by Officer Derek about Sage Indarra (daughter).
Officer Derek informed Officer Ty (Dignitary of the Peace) they were on the line.
It seems Sage’s parents: Ethan Indarra (husband/father) & Isabelle Indarra (Ethan’s PG wife, mom) don’t exist.
Ms. Higgs came & got Sage & took her to meet Headmaster Octavius Alexander of Eprah’s Institution.
The next day Sage met with Ms. Pembergast an instructor.
She was told a little history about Eprah (country).
There were 5 original leaders who founded the System of Worth.
Based on a rating it was up to the citizen to make the most of their lifestyle.
Sage (Lawless kid) met Penelope (Level #7) on the way to her class.
The Transitional Class students are: Everett, Nic, Aura, & Marnie.
Sage later met 2 girls: Pippa (Cleansing), Carnabel (bully), Finkel, Rit, Brittka Bamptok, Rosalind Tarn, & Kai Abeldra (Levels # 15 & 16).
Mr. Walsh taught Eprah & Ancient Civilizations’ History class.
Sage passed her exam & was promoted to Level #8.
Will Sage ever get to see her parents again?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written dystopian 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 another great dystopian movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. Kind of cheesy but I will still rate it at 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Heritage Publishing; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
Officer Derek informed Officer Ty (Dignitary of the Peace) they were on the line.
It seems Sage’s parents: Ethan Indarra (husband/father) & Isabelle Indarra (Ethan’s PG wife, mom) don’t exist.
Ms. Higgs came & got Sage & took her to meet Headmaster Octavius Alexander of Eprah’s Institution.
The next day Sage met with Ms. Pembergast an instructor.
She was told a little history about Eprah (country).
There were 5 original leaders who founded the System of Worth.
Based on a rating it was up to the citizen to make the most of their lifestyle.
Sage (Lawless kid) met Penelope (Level #7) on the way to her class.
The Transitional Class students are: Everett, Nic, Aura, & Marnie.
Sage later met 2 girls: Pippa (Cleansing), Carnabel (bully), Finkel, Rit, Brittka Bamptok, Rosalind Tarn, & Kai Abeldra (Levels # 15 & 16).
Mr. Walsh taught Eprah & Ancient Civilizations’ History class.
Sage passed her exam & was promoted to Level #8.
Will Sage ever get to see her parents again?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written dystopian 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 another great dystopian movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. Kind of cheesy but I will still rate it at 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Heritage Publishing; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
January 1, 2018
I love dystopia that delves into social injustice, and this book definitely does not disappoint. The book is very well-written, and I can't help feeling that the children (7 years old) are much more mature in this society than your average elementary school students. I would equate them to tiny teenagers, to be honest.
One thing that really struck me was how there is a very narrow boundary between our current society and Eprah. It wouldn't take much to transform into the dystopia we see in Eprah, and that in and of itself gave me a chill.
I also enjoyed the character growth where it came to Sage. She seemed so young and naive in the beginning, but she was very quick to catch on and "play the game" in order to keep herself out of trouble as often as possible. I'm curious to see her progression throughout the rest of the series--I can already tell she has the potential to become a very strong female protagonist much like Katniss Everdeen and Tris Prior.
While the subject matter is only slightly original, the way that the author goes about it makes it seem fresh. I'm looking forward to reading this series through to the end.
One thing that really struck me was how there is a very narrow boundary between our current society and Eprah. It wouldn't take much to transform into the dystopia we see in Eprah, and that in and of itself gave me a chill.
I also enjoyed the character growth where it came to Sage. She seemed so young and naive in the beginning, but she was very quick to catch on and "play the game" in order to keep herself out of trouble as often as possible. I'm curious to see her progression throughout the rest of the series--I can already tell she has the potential to become a very strong female protagonist much like Katniss Everdeen and Tris Prior.
While the subject matter is only slightly original, the way that the author goes about it makes it seem fresh. I'm looking forward to reading this series through to the end.
January 24, 2025
I found the set up interesting. I didn’t initially realize it was the first in a series, so I’ll need to look for the other books to continue the story. I prefer to read a series anyway, so that didn’t bother me.
The story follows a 7-year old protagonist. From that aspect, it reminded me a bit of The Book Thief. The girl is raised “lawless.” When her parents die she is found and processed into the “Institution.” The government setup feels well thought out and the reader learns the different aspects of the controlling society along with the protagonist.
The novel felt a little short, and we only get to see Sage through her first year. I also thought the work the 7-year olds were doing seemed quite advanced, even for such a strict culture. Otherwise, I thought it read well, perhaps a tad slow but the subject matter was immersive.
The story follows a 7-year old protagonist. From that aspect, it reminded me a bit of The Book Thief. The girl is raised “lawless.” When her parents die she is found and processed into the “Institution.” The government setup feels well thought out and the reader learns the different aspects of the controlling society along with the protagonist.
The novel felt a little short, and we only get to see Sage through her first year. I also thought the work the 7-year olds were doing seemed quite advanced, even for such a strict culture. Otherwise, I thought it read well, perhaps a tad slow but the subject matter was immersive.
July 30, 2023
This book was a mysterious introduction into the series that raises several questions. Why are Sage's parents hiding from the leaders of Eprah? Why are they killed one day? What's up with the "chances" doctrine the Institute leaders keep mentioning? These things intrigued me.
One thing I wonder is why Sage (for the most part), though, does not seem to be heavily grieving her parents. She seems to adjust quickly to life at the Institute. In one way, she had to because of the Cleansing process being as mentally tough as it was, but in another, we don't get to see her reflecting on her life pre-Institute too much, which felt a little odd.
On the other hand, I really enjoyed the story. I love dystopian worlds and am curious to see what unfolds as this series continues.
3.7 stars
One thing I wonder is why Sage (for the most part), though, does not seem to be heavily grieving her parents. She seems to adjust quickly to life at the Institute. In one way, she had to because of the Cleansing process being as mentally tough as it was, but in another, we don't get to see her reflecting on her life pre-Institute too much, which felt a little odd.
On the other hand, I really enjoyed the story. I love dystopian worlds and am curious to see what unfolds as this series continues.
3.7 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2019
Captivating
Like many Kindle books, this has an editing problem, but not so bad as to take away from the story and the writing itself. Intriguing look at a dystopian world where the young are raised as a whole by "government". A young girl is dragged from her life into this world after the deaths of her parents. Her indoctrination is the premise of this book, can't wait to start the next to see how her journey plays out.
Like many Kindle books, this has an editing problem, but not so bad as to take away from the story and the writing itself. Intriguing look at a dystopian world where the young are raised as a whole by "government". A young girl is dragged from her life into this world after the deaths of her parents. Her indoctrination is the premise of this book, can't wait to start the next to see how her journey plays out.
August 22, 2017
Better than I expected
I found myself reading this quickly and wanting to know more about Eprah. It shares a lot with other dystopian works but that doesn't make it uninteresting. It makes me want to theorize about things and then see if I am correct.
I found myself reading this quickly and wanting to know more about Eprah. It shares a lot with other dystopian works but that doesn't make it uninteresting. It makes me want to theorize about things and then see if I am correct.
September 17, 2018
OMG I loved this book. It was that good as soon as I finished reading it I cleared out my Kindle unlimited library so I could download the others. I so cannot wait to see how the story unfolds. This is a fantastic book and draws the reader into it.
January 12, 2019
Cacth in full at ♀ Bookworm
While reading this book I could only think, “wow, this is that series I never finished, Delirium or something, but 2.0” but with a child instead of a teenager couple going against all odds. So, if you’re looking for this dystopian little-to-none background story, this book is for you. If you’re looking for hidden mysteries with no intention coming to light as yet, this book is for you. It’s a little young adult, nothing amiss with this book, but the lack of background answers and general knowledge left me baffled because I was expecting more and more with each page read. It was fast, I blinked and suddenly I was 80% done, so I held back expecting big reveals, but none came. Except for a new year sneak-peek, and a full-on hatred on this dictatorship mentality.
While reading this book I could only think, “wow, this is that series I never finished, Delirium or something, but 2.0” but with a child instead of a teenager couple going against all odds. So, if you’re looking for this dystopian little-to-none background story, this book is for you. If you’re looking for hidden mysteries with no intention coming to light as yet, this book is for you. It’s a little young adult, nothing amiss with this book, but the lack of background answers and general knowledge left me baffled because I was expecting more and more with each page read. It was fast, I blinked and suddenly I was 80% done, so I held back expecting big reveals, but none came. Except for a new year sneak-peek, and a full-on hatred on this dictatorship mentality.
January 14, 2019
Little slow
The book starts out good but about half way through it starts getting mundane. I will continue on to the next book because I am some what curious on what Sage will do.
The book starts out good but about half way through it starts getting mundane. I will continue on to the next book because I am some what curious on what Sage will do.
February 16, 2019
Are we expected to believe a seven year old child is capable of the language complexities and mature action thinking that Sage is? I kept forgetting the whole time she’s supposed to be a little kid. I’m confused.
June 2, 2020
Future?
This book was a dystopian fantasy that reminded me of pink Floyd's the wall and the constraints of what would happen to society if all were taught from birth to conform to one society one thought.....i keep envisioning ephra with having giant billboards reading....OBEY
This book was a dystopian fantasy that reminded me of pink Floyd's the wall and the constraints of what would happen to society if all were taught from birth to conform to one society one thought.....i keep envisioning ephra with having giant billboards reading....OBEY
May 12, 2017
This was a strange but interesting story. I wish it hadn't ended it so abruptly.
August 3, 2017
Good book
Novella. Great read in a day when weather was questionable. Characters, storylines whole thing is terrific. Thanks Mr. Steel for the book.
Novella. Great read in a day when weather was questionable. Characters, storylines whole thing is terrific. Thanks Mr. Steel for the book.
August 5, 2017
Received free for review:
Definitely will read more by this author!
Caught me up in the story from the onset!
Fast paced & well written!
Definitely will read more by this author!
Caught me up in the story from the onset!
Fast paced & well written!
November 23, 2017
Very short. almost like a prequel - teaser.
September 1, 2017
Fast read, interesting
Interesting plot. Govt controlled, futuristic world. Would make an interesting movie. The only thing odd to me is the characters are 7 and act older.
Interesting plot. Govt controlled, futuristic world. Would make an interesting movie. The only thing odd to me is the characters are 7 and act older.
November 3, 2017
Interesting start, though very short. I wonder how this series will progress.
May 29, 2019
Kept me on the edge of my seat.
I really enjoyed this book. I can't wait to find out what happens to Sage! I want to know more.
I really enjoyed this book. I can't wait to find out what happens to Sage! I want to know more.
July 3, 2019
Take Gods name in vain
Fantastic mystery, complicated but easy to understand. Can’t continue cause God commands us to NOT take his name in vain.
Fantastic mystery, complicated but easy to understand. Can’t continue cause God commands us to NOT take his name in vain.
April 21, 2020
Very easy to read but very bland and forgettable
June 1, 2020
a good Hunger Games meets Oliver Twist mix.
February 22, 2024
I read 3/4 of this book and just couldn't get into it. There's no way a 7 year old kid is that smart and observing. Just not very plausible.
February 6, 2017
This is a really short novella that's an intro to this dystopian world and basically setting the scene. Children are taken away from their parents, and raised by the state: a classic totalitarian system to brainwash and raise a trusting, unthinking workforce and/or army.
When little Sage's parents are killed and she's taken into the Institution where she will be raised, she struggles to stay true to her mom and dad, how they raised her and what they taught her. But it's so hard for such a little girl and the solitary confinement, confusing surroundings, and new way of thinking that they're forcing on her are almost overwhelming. Where to go, how to learn, how to dress, what to eat, what to say, what NOT to say--Sage must learn all these new ways, but inside she's not giving up. She's getting out of here. One day.
Nothing inappropriate and a completely youth-friendly book.
When little Sage's parents are killed and she's taken into the Institution where she will be raised, she struggles to stay true to her mom and dad, how they raised her and what they taught her. But it's so hard for such a little girl and the solitary confinement, confusing surroundings, and new way of thinking that they're forcing on her are almost overwhelming. Where to go, how to learn, how to dress, what to eat, what to say, what NOT to say--Sage must learn all these new ways, but inside she's not giving up. She's getting out of here. One day.
Nothing inappropriate and a completely youth-friendly book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews