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The Perception Trilogy #2
Volition
Zoe Vanderveen is on the run with her captor turned rescuer, Noah Brody.
They're in love.
Or at least that's what he tells her.
Her memories have returned but her feelings are dreamlike ~ thin and fleeting. Can she really trust Noah? Should Noah trust her?
Noah Brody thought he did the right thing by running away with the beautiful and endangered Zoe Vanderveen, but now he's not so sure. Zoe's changed, and not necessarily for the better. Taken in by an off-the-grid religious sect, their sense of safety is short lived. These people are crazy, but are they dangerous?
Senator Vanderveen's new team of cyborg agents are in hot pursuit and a reward for Zoe and Noah's capture is broadcast nationwide. They'll need a miracle to escape his grasp this time, but will they get it?
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2013
77 people are currently reading
732 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,341 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 18, 2014
I really enjoyed the first book, Perception, which is still currently free! I'll keep these two reviews short and spoiler free for those that haven't had a chance to start the series. In this next installment, Zoe and Noah are on the run from her grandfather. Traveling from hotel to hotel and hiding out on a compound or in a gym. Their pictures are posted everywhere for a large reward. Noah feels obligated to keep Zoe safe but Zoe feels like a burden.
The romance in this one was more disappointing than in the first since the couple is going through their miscommunication and lets fight our feelings stage. Zoe lost her memories of Noah and even though she has gotten to know him and love him again, Noah doesn't think she loves him the way she used to. It was very aggravating. I think they will eventually find their way back to each other.
I love books that take place on the run. I was sad to not get to see as much of the futuristic world building and neat inventions as I got to see in the first but loved the quick pace. The series explores the question of technology/science vs religion/nature but not in an overly preachy manner. Just in a way that makes you think and understand both sides. This series has a great mix of sci-fi, dystopian, mystery, romance, and action.
---
"I don't want it to be this way."
"What way?"
He turned and steadied his eyes on mine.
"I want you to love me."
"I fell in love with you once and then I forgot. I totally get it now how I could've loved you before. Because I've done it again." I inhaled. "I love you."
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review*
The romance in this one was more disappointing than in the first since the couple is going through their miscommunication and lets fight our feelings stage. Zoe lost her memories of Noah and even though she has gotten to know him and love him again, Noah doesn't think she loves him the way she used to. It was very aggravating. I think they will eventually find their way back to each other.
I love books that take place on the run. I was sad to not get to see as much of the futuristic world building and neat inventions as I got to see in the first but loved the quick pace. The series explores the question of technology/science vs religion/nature but not in an overly preachy manner. Just in a way that makes you think and understand both sides. This series has a great mix of sci-fi, dystopian, mystery, romance, and action.
---
"I don't want it to be this way."
"What way?"
He turned and steadied his eyes on mine.
"I want you to love me."
"I fell in love with you once and then I forgot. I totally get it now how I could've loved you before. Because I've done it again." I inhaled. "I love you."
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review*
April 27, 2013
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
I was so excited to read this since the previous book left a cliffhanger. Volition picks up right where Perception ended, with Zoe and Noah fleeing from her grandfather. As they race across the country, trying to stay off the grid and survive, Zoe struggles of having no memory knowing—let alone loving—Noah, and he begins to wonder if his rescuing her was more like condemning her.
Though it was utterly heartbreaking, I loved how the author, Lee Strauss, did the romance in this book. It was ... backward, kind of an anti-romance. Not that the characters fall out of love with each other or anything. Noah still loves Zoe. He will do whatever it takes to protect her. And she has feelings for him. The connection is obviously there with every look, touch, and everything they don't say. But because of the memory loss, she's different. She's not the Zoe he fell in love with. They have to rediscover one another, yet under the circumstances, they have a hard time doing so and achingly seem to drift apart.
Cue in the small love triangle—one that works. Even though there were moments I wanted to shake Zoe on Noah's behalf, her indecision was so well written and understandable that I couldn't blame her for her actions, not entirely. I really liked Taylor Blake. He's a bit of brainiac, has a lot in common with Zoe, and offered her a light, an optimism, in a world of dread. But Noah ... I fell in love with him even more in this book, so to me, there was no question who she should be with.
On top of all the intense emotions, I also enjoyed the different communities the author included. There's a settlement similar to the Amish, an underground boxing ring, a little bit of the rebellion and Noah's viral group, as well as the cyborgs. The action was fantastic. All the secondary characters were strong, too.
The only issue I had with Volition was the pacing. It was a bit slow, and I felt that a definitive plot was missing. Whether it was Zoe's personal and emotional growth, her relationship status with Noah, the problems with her grandfather—I couldn't tell. It all stayed in a stand-still, a limbo, because nothing goes anywhere. Nothing really changed. Everything felt stuck in one place, one level, until the very end, which is a cliffhanger. I actually loved the cliffhanger, but I wish there was more development on something, anything. Without, it felt like the beginning of a plot, of a book. Because right as we're about reach the climax and the meat of the story, the book ends!
*sigh* That could just be me, though. I loved the first book and the idea of this one. I was simply expecting to be as satisfied with it. I do think those who have been following the series will enjoy this installment—because I did enjoy it, am even more anxious for all the characters, old and new, and will continue to read the series.
*eARC provided by Lee Strauss in exchange for a review. Thank you!
*Review also posted on the The LUV'NV blog.
I was so excited to read this since the previous book left a cliffhanger. Volition picks up right where Perception ended, with Zoe and Noah fleeing from her grandfather. As they race across the country, trying to stay off the grid and survive, Zoe struggles of having no memory knowing—let alone loving—Noah, and he begins to wonder if his rescuing her was more like condemning her.
Though it was utterly heartbreaking, I loved how the author, Lee Strauss, did the romance in this book. It was ... backward, kind of an anti-romance. Not that the characters fall out of love with each other or anything. Noah still loves Zoe. He will do whatever it takes to protect her. And she has feelings for him. The connection is obviously there with every look, touch, and everything they don't say. But because of the memory loss, she's different. She's not the Zoe he fell in love with. They have to rediscover one another, yet under the circumstances, they have a hard time doing so and achingly seem to drift apart.
Cue in the small love triangle—one that works. Even though there were moments I wanted to shake Zoe on Noah's behalf, her indecision was so well written and understandable that I couldn't blame her for her actions, not entirely. I really liked Taylor Blake. He's a bit of brainiac, has a lot in common with Zoe, and offered her a light, an optimism, in a world of dread. But Noah ... I fell in love with him even more in this book, so to me, there was no question who she should be with.
On top of all the intense emotions, I also enjoyed the different communities the author included. There's a settlement similar to the Amish, an underground boxing ring, a little bit of the rebellion and Noah's viral group, as well as the cyborgs. The action was fantastic. All the secondary characters were strong, too.
The only issue I had with Volition was the pacing. It was a bit slow, and I felt that a definitive plot was missing. Whether it was Zoe's personal and emotional growth, her relationship status with Noah, the problems with her grandfather—I couldn't tell. It all stayed in a stand-still, a limbo, because nothing goes anywhere. Nothing really changed. Everything felt stuck in one place, one level, until the very end, which is a cliffhanger. I actually loved the cliffhanger, but I wish there was more development on something, anything. Without, it felt like the beginning of a plot, of a book. Because right as we're about reach the climax and the meat of the story, the book ends!
*sigh* That could just be me, though. I loved the first book and the idea of this one. I was simply expecting to be as satisfied with it. I do think those who have been following the series will enjoy this installment—because I did enjoy it, am even more anxious for all the characters, old and new, and will continue to read the series.
*eARC provided by Lee Strauss in exchange for a review. Thank you!
*Review also posted on the The LUV'NV blog.
September 20, 2013
I was surprised how quickly I was able to remember the whole story from Perception, the first book in the series. Normally it comes back to me in bits and pieces, but when I was only a few paragraphs in, my memory flooded with scenes from the last book. Volition picks up where Perception left off, and in places it just hints at what happened before, but didn’t do a full recap at the beginning or anything.
So Zoe and Noah have set off, and have government agents on their tail. They run into all sorts of interesting people in their attempt to stay off the grid. The story is told from the dual points of view of Zoe and Noah, and I really enjoyed it. I felt that I got a real sense of what they felt and I was able to connect with each of them for different reasons. There were a lot of new characters introduced, and they were memorable for different reasons – some of them weren’t fully developed, but it made the read quite interesting.
Now, there was the dreaded love triangle in effect here – but it seemed somewhat acceptable because it wasn’t done with the insipid “do I love this guy, or do I love the other guy?” way. Maybe because of the way it was written, I was able to see these triangles more clearly and how I think it will actually end up pushing Zoe and Noah closer together. Or, at least I hope.
Some of the plot twists were easy to predict, and others seemed to come from left field. There were some great action scenes throughout. Parts of the story didn’t seem too plausible, but they did help the story progress and I didn’t feel they were laughable, just unlikely. And, of course, it ends on a cliffhanger…so I’m glad I waited to read it until just before the final book comes out…now I won’t have to wait forever to find out what happens to Zoe, Noah and their new companions!
If you like dystopias and the moral dilemmas of technology and what we can essentially do with it, you might enjoy this series. I’m looking forward to reading Contrition, the final book in the series, next week!
So Zoe and Noah have set off, and have government agents on their tail. They run into all sorts of interesting people in their attempt to stay off the grid. The story is told from the dual points of view of Zoe and Noah, and I really enjoyed it. I felt that I got a real sense of what they felt and I was able to connect with each of them for different reasons. There were a lot of new characters introduced, and they were memorable for different reasons – some of them weren’t fully developed, but it made the read quite interesting.
Now, there was the dreaded love triangle in effect here – but it seemed somewhat acceptable because it wasn’t done with the insipid “do I love this guy, or do I love the other guy?” way. Maybe because of the way it was written, I was able to see these triangles more clearly and how I think it will actually end up pushing Zoe and Noah closer together. Or, at least I hope.
Some of the plot twists were easy to predict, and others seemed to come from left field. There were some great action scenes throughout. Parts of the story didn’t seem too plausible, but they did help the story progress and I didn’t feel they were laughable, just unlikely. And, of course, it ends on a cliffhanger…so I’m glad I waited to read it until just before the final book comes out…now I won’t have to wait forever to find out what happens to Zoe, Noah and their new companions!
If you like dystopias and the moral dilemmas of technology and what we can essentially do with it, you might enjoy this series. I’m looking forward to reading Contrition, the final book in the series, next week!
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November 18, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. It starts right up where the first book left off, with Zoe and Noah on the run. Zoe is struggling to regain her memories. Her family had been giving her drugs to erase her memories because she and Noah had gotten too close to the truth about what her powerful Grandfather has been up to and his involvement in her brother's death. She and Noah were in love and he kidnapped her to get her out of the grasp of her family and off the drugs they have been giving her in hopes her memories would return. She is remembering but its more like a dream so their relationship is suffering because of it. They suffer many obstacles in their quest to stay out of harm's way. What I liked about this book was Noah's deep commitment to Zoe, no matter the status of their relationship, he is responsible for her and he loves her. He is willing to do anything to keep them safe. And, they do get in some pretty tough spots along the way. What I didn't like about this book was Zoe's constant questioning of Noah's love for her. I realize she has had her mind messed with and that everything she is going through is completely foreign to her compared to the privileged life she had. But, Noah has given up everything as well to keep her safe. This book is pretty non-stop right from the start and was hard to put down.
What I didn't know, though, is that there is going to be another book!!! I thought it would come to a conclusion instead of a cliff hanger, and be warned, a cliff hanger is how it ends. Soooo.....I will have to wait a while longer for the conclusion. I do recommend this series. It not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but gives you plenty to think about as well.
What I didn't know, though, is that there is going to be another book!!! I thought it would come to a conclusion instead of a cliff hanger, and be warned, a cliff hanger is how it ends. Soooo.....I will have to wait a while longer for the conclusion. I do recommend this series. It not only keeps you on the edge of your seat but gives you plenty to think about as well.
March 22, 2013
Zoe remembers most everything her grandfather took away...except her feelings towards Noah. But that is the least of her problems. Zoe and Noah's face being plastered all over the country is front and foremost. They are on the run and the future looks bleak.
From the moment I finished PERCEPTION, I have eagerly been awaiting VOLITION. I had to know what was happening to Zoe and Noah as they tried to get away from the clutches of her grandfather and the evil he is about to throw at the country if elected President. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed…especially after they made it to St Louis. Yep, things got a little interesting. Ok, very interesting. But even before that, while in Utah, stuck with a couple religious fanatics, I was tense the whole time they were there. You never knew what was going to happen.
I am a huge romance lover. And this book didn’t have a whole lot in it. Like almost none at all. But it sure wasn’t these kids fault by any means. Zoe is piecing together her memories and her feelings for Noah back together, jealousy on both sides rears its ugly head from time to time, and lastly…well people change. It is just the facts of life. But just when you think there is hope for these two…the rug gets ripped out from under them. So even though the romance was not really there…in a way it was. It’s just not the swoony type you’d expect.
All in all, this was a great, quick read. Strauss keeps it interesting and the readers wondering. And of course, with an ending like that, you can bet I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. Highly recommend this book and this series to anyone who loves science fiction and a bit of mystery.
From the moment I finished PERCEPTION, I have eagerly been awaiting VOLITION. I had to know what was happening to Zoe and Noah as they tried to get away from the clutches of her grandfather and the evil he is about to throw at the country if elected President. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed…especially after they made it to St Louis. Yep, things got a little interesting. Ok, very interesting. But even before that, while in Utah, stuck with a couple religious fanatics, I was tense the whole time they were there. You never knew what was going to happen.
I am a huge romance lover. And this book didn’t have a whole lot in it. Like almost none at all. But it sure wasn’t these kids fault by any means. Zoe is piecing together her memories and her feelings for Noah back together, jealousy on both sides rears its ugly head from time to time, and lastly…well people change. It is just the facts of life. But just when you think there is hope for these two…the rug gets ripped out from under them. So even though the romance was not really there…in a way it was. It’s just not the swoony type you’d expect.
All in all, this was a great, quick read. Strauss keeps it interesting and the readers wondering. And of course, with an ending like that, you can bet I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. Highly recommend this book and this series to anyone who loves science fiction and a bit of mystery.
April 1, 2013
The stakes become higher in this second installment as Zoe and Noah are chased by her grandfather’s henchmen. The action intensifies, and Noah worries that he may have been wrong, after all, to rescue Zoe. Zoe is different; she does not remember loving Noah. Noah is committed to protecting the woman he loves even though her personality is considerably less vibrant – muted, altered. There is hope, however, as some of Zoe’s memories slowly return.
In this installment Senator Vanderveen takes off the kid gloves. Incensed with his granddaughter’s rabble-rousing, and contending with significant worries of political fall-out, his ruthlessness escalates. A huge bounty is offered. Disguised and on the run, Zoe and Noah are temporarily sheltered by a couple of fringe groups – but trust is a commodity in short supply.
I enjoyed this second installment but was disappointed by the huge cliff-hanger ending. The dystopic world is expanding, and the creep element has intensified. With dwindling resources, Zoe and Noah are engaged in a dangerous effort to out-fox a master manipulator blessed with unlimited funds, powerful connections, and an unimpeachable reputation. This exciting continuation of their adventures and achievements is a worthy successor to Perception and an intriguing precursor to the next installment in this well-written, action-packed series.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
In this installment Senator Vanderveen takes off the kid gloves. Incensed with his granddaughter’s rabble-rousing, and contending with significant worries of political fall-out, his ruthlessness escalates. A huge bounty is offered. Disguised and on the run, Zoe and Noah are temporarily sheltered by a couple of fringe groups – but trust is a commodity in short supply.
I enjoyed this second installment but was disappointed by the huge cliff-hanger ending. The dystopic world is expanding, and the creep element has intensified. With dwindling resources, Zoe and Noah are engaged in a dangerous effort to out-fox a master manipulator blessed with unlimited funds, powerful connections, and an unimpeachable reputation. This exciting continuation of their adventures and achievements is a worthy successor to Perception and an intriguing precursor to the next installment in this well-written, action-packed series.
This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
April 6, 2013
I have been reading a lot of different science fiction and cyborg books lately. There are so many out there. This one however stood out for me because the bad guys are in power, and the main character is running away form her "grandfather" Her grandfather runs for office. This is not good for Zoe, or the rest of society.
I also enjoyed the memory loss part of Zoe's character. It is a fatal character flaw not to know your past. It is even worse to remember it as something different then you thought it was. Who do you believe? Yourself or the person you are fleeing with that you are supposed to trust?
This is an epic struggle to survive, everything is against Zoe. The weather, the temperatures, and luck.
I was not happy when someone died, but it fit in the story, and I was okay with who it was. The author wrote words that easily flowed together and it was a very fast read for me. The ending surprised me a little, and I can not wait to read the other books in this series! I found myself cheering for Zoe, and I started to second guess all the other characters. As her memory came back, her past was clear as well as the present.
I am giving this book a 4/5 because even though I liked it a lot it is not my favorite genre.
I was given a copy to review by Orangeberry book tours, however all opinions are my own!
February 16, 2015
In book two of the series, we find Noah and Zoe on the run moving from hotel to hotel and end up in St. Louis. Grandfather V is still after them and Noah trains to be a virtual fighter in order to make money.
September 2, 2018
Zoe Vanderveen is on the run with Noah Brody. This is book two of the trilogy.
Noah keeps telling her they are in love, but her Grandfather V erased all memories of the two weeks in exile and she has to learn to trust and love him all over again.
They run into a commune, off the grid, and are shocked to see how these people live. Only for a night says Noah, but trouble and fighting the cyborgs with death of many on both sides ensues, but they get away again.
They meet a brother and sister team, Mary and Jabez, that live in an abandoned factory, and to get money they host a virtual illegal fighting ring. They train Noah, against Zoe's wishes, but Noah beefs up and after loosing a fight he wins, and promises they will leave.
Three of the communal people show up, and want to join them.
Meanwhile Grandpa V won the presidency and has warrants for their arrests, one million dollars on Zoe and one half for Noah.
The cyborgs find them yet again and they escape in a hidden plane that takes them to the desert where they crash.
Noah keeps telling her they are in love, but her Grandfather V erased all memories of the two weeks in exile and she has to learn to trust and love him all over again.
They run into a commune, off the grid, and are shocked to see how these people live. Only for a night says Noah, but trouble and fighting the cyborgs with death of many on both sides ensues, but they get away again.
They meet a brother and sister team, Mary and Jabez, that live in an abandoned factory, and to get money they host a virtual illegal fighting ring. They train Noah, against Zoe's wishes, but Noah beefs up and after loosing a fight he wins, and promises they will leave.
Three of the communal people show up, and want to join them.
Meanwhile Grandpa V won the presidency and has warrants for their arrests, one million dollars on Zoe and one half for Noah.
The cyborgs find them yet again and they escape in a hidden plane that takes them to the desert where they crash.
August 20, 2017
I read this (book 2) right after the first book, and have started book three ... I know the whole story is just going to mesh into one long memory for me. Speaking of memory, this starts up as Zoe has regained her memory and she and Noah take off for ordeals and adventures. It's an ultimate "cliffhanger" ending, not falling off a cliff per se, but close!
It's nice already knowing the characters and the setting/world, so you can immediately get into the story. Plenty of new characters introduced. Some love triangle situations. Not that I had any set idea of where the story would go as the first book ended, but I wouldn't really have expected anything that happened here.
I couldn't sleep one night ... so I read this entire book.
It's nice already knowing the characters and the setting/world, so you can immediately get into the story. Plenty of new characters introduced. Some love triangle situations. Not that I had any set idea of where the story would go as the first book ended, but I wouldn't really have expected anything that happened here.
I couldn't sleep one night ... so I read this entire book.
August 8, 2018
Well...we have arrived at book two after being bored and annoyed with book one. Still bored and annoyed. I don't care that Zoe is sad that she lost her memories. I don't care that they are being chased. I don't care that Noah is on the run but Zoe doesn't like him like he likes her. Mostly I felt like this book did a big circle and got no where. I am more upset with myself for continuing on in the series because now I have to read book three just to see how they wrap it up. Or perhaps I could find a good reads review on it. :)
March 1, 2017
Twists and turns bring surprises
Twists and turns bring surprises in "Violation". Unexpected and explosive facts Zoe could have never have guessed ! How or will this change her? A great story for the young and young at heart. I am reading on to find out how this will end! Thank you Lee for your books,
Twists and turns bring surprises in "Violation". Unexpected and explosive facts Zoe could have never have guessed ! How or will this change her? A great story for the young and young at heart. I am reading on to find out how this will end! Thank you Lee for your books,
January 14, 2019
Wonderful series!
August 3, 2020
la novela y la trama me encantan, es la segunda parte de la saga, lo malo es que la traducción a español no está bien realizada.
May 1, 2013
Volition continues the Perception series, which follows the intersecting paths of beautiful Zoe Vanderveen, a genetically enhanced member of a privileged and elite family, and Noah Brody a "natural", whose opportunities are severely limited by the absence of connections and relative poverty.
Book Two picks up the story as Zoe and Noah are on the run, desperate to escape the grasp of Zoe's grandfather, who has previously interrupted Noah and Zoe as they came close to finding out the details of her grandfather's involvement in the death of her brother. Noah escapes, but Zoe is reunited with her parents, who see that she receives drugs which cause a loss of the memories involving Noah and her brother, replacing them with benign memories.
Noah "knows" that if he can take Zoe away from that fake world, their love will be strong enough to see them through, not realizing how long and difficult their road will be. Zoe suffers from head aches as she withdraws from the powerful medicines she had been taking, and only has Noah's word for it that they had been in love. While Noah lived in LA he had influence via his blog on the growing anti-GAP (genetically altered people) culture, but he loses his ability to influence others when logging on would alert Zoe's powerful grandfather and the thugs who work for him of their location.
The posters and ever present newscasts make it clear that they must change their appearance and keep a very low profile. They can trust no one, as the bounty on their heads makes the temptation to turn them in pretty overwhelming for anyone who might realize who they are. They are hungry and tired; winter is coming, when they stumble across a fundamentalist family who shun technology and live off the land in Utah. This may be the break they need. But the longer they stay the more they realize that all in this household is not as it seems. There is conflict in the family and tension between Noah and Zoe. They must leave suddenly, travelling to an urban environment in a "borrowed" car. Existence is even harder here, but they meet a brother and sister who live in an abandoned factory and give them a place to stay. The brother and sister seem to have some secrets too.
Zoe and Noah continue to struggle with whether or not they are in love, but Noah is sure of his loyalty to Zoe, even as he wonders if he has done her any favors by removing her from the safety and comfort of her parents' home.
The author does not sugarcoat the difficulties that a couple on the run in an increasingly totalitarian society would have, but she is true to the angst of their young love and the comfort that Noah draws from his upbringing in a Godly home.
They seem to have overcome against all odds by the end of the book...but wait, a new and unexpected disaster is introduced at the end of the book, preparing an eager readership for Book 3 in the series.
I received Perception as an e-book from Net Galley, and ordered this sequel as soon as I got the chance. Check it out!
Book Two picks up the story as Zoe and Noah are on the run, desperate to escape the grasp of Zoe's grandfather, who has previously interrupted Noah and Zoe as they came close to finding out the details of her grandfather's involvement in the death of her brother. Noah escapes, but Zoe is reunited with her parents, who see that she receives drugs which cause a loss of the memories involving Noah and her brother, replacing them with benign memories.
Noah "knows" that if he can take Zoe away from that fake world, their love will be strong enough to see them through, not realizing how long and difficult their road will be. Zoe suffers from head aches as she withdraws from the powerful medicines she had been taking, and only has Noah's word for it that they had been in love. While Noah lived in LA he had influence via his blog on the growing anti-GAP (genetically altered people) culture, but he loses his ability to influence others when logging on would alert Zoe's powerful grandfather and the thugs who work for him of their location.
The posters and ever present newscasts make it clear that they must change their appearance and keep a very low profile. They can trust no one, as the bounty on their heads makes the temptation to turn them in pretty overwhelming for anyone who might realize who they are. They are hungry and tired; winter is coming, when they stumble across a fundamentalist family who shun technology and live off the land in Utah. This may be the break they need. But the longer they stay the more they realize that all in this household is not as it seems. There is conflict in the family and tension between Noah and Zoe. They must leave suddenly, travelling to an urban environment in a "borrowed" car. Existence is even harder here, but they meet a brother and sister who live in an abandoned factory and give them a place to stay. The brother and sister seem to have some secrets too.
Zoe and Noah continue to struggle with whether or not they are in love, but Noah is sure of his loyalty to Zoe, even as he wonders if he has done her any favors by removing her from the safety and comfort of her parents' home.
The author does not sugarcoat the difficulties that a couple on the run in an increasingly totalitarian society would have, but she is true to the angst of their young love and the comfort that Noah draws from his upbringing in a Godly home.
They seem to have overcome against all odds by the end of the book...but wait, a new and unexpected disaster is introduced at the end of the book, preparing an eager readership for Book 3 in the series.
I received Perception as an e-book from Net Galley, and ordered this sequel as soon as I got the chance. Check it out!
April 30, 2013
A solid 4 stars.. Volition is the second book in a planned series of four books. Volition picks up right where Perception left off. Zoe, a Genetically Engineered Person or GAP and Noah, who is anti-GAP fell in love, against all odds, in Perception. Only, thanks to Zoe' s crazy grandfather, who erased all memory of Noah, Zoe can't remember her love for him. And it's really messing with his mind. They are on the run, and Noah is determined to protect Zoe and to get her memory of their love back.
While on the run, fleeing from Grandpa V and cyborgs that want to kill or capture them, Zoe and Noah spend weeks in seedy motels, as well as a stop in Utah to a freaky Amish like religious cult that does not believe in technology (or do they). That's where they meet Taylor (a part of the dreaded - at least for me- love triangle) who Zoe is somehow drawn to. Finally, after fleeing Utah, they end up in St. Louis, bunking with a sister and brother, Mary and Jabez who may be more than they lead the reader to know.
There is lots of jealousy - Noah is jealous of Taylor; Zoe is jealous of Mary, and it is extremely frustrating for this reader! The story is told from alternating points of view of Zoe and Noah. Unlike many other books I have read (especially lately) the POV's are not by chapter, therefore you never know when you are going to shift POV's (which I kind of liked). Just when we think we know what is going on between Zoe and Noah, and know what they are each thinking, the POV switches, and learn that we didn't know the whole story. I really liked how Strauss built up the tension between the two of them with this tactic. However, I was very frustrated, with both Zoe and Noah and how they acted toward each other, clearly not understanding what each are really thinking and feeling.
As with
,Strauss weaves a believable scifi story, while focusing on what is really important in a story - the characters. I really enjoyed Volition, although it is not as good as its predecessor Perception - as this was clearly a "middle" book, but still a great story. The only thing that I really missed was the romance. I know that the focus was on Zoe and Noah escaping and trying to survive, while setting up relationships for the next two books in the series (with the return of Taylor Blake to shake things up? I hope not). However, the little glimpses that we do get of Zoe and Noah's love (as Zoe realizes that although she does not remember how she felt, it doesn't matter, because she understands why) are goosebump inducing! I wanted more!
While on the run, fleeing from Grandpa V and cyborgs that want to kill or capture them, Zoe and Noah spend weeks in seedy motels, as well as a stop in Utah to a freaky Amish like religious cult that does not believe in technology (or do they). That's where they meet Taylor (a part of the dreaded - at least for me- love triangle) who Zoe is somehow drawn to. Finally, after fleeing Utah, they end up in St. Louis, bunking with a sister and brother, Mary and Jabez who may be more than they lead the reader to know.
There is lots of jealousy - Noah is jealous of Taylor; Zoe is jealous of Mary, and it is extremely frustrating for this reader! The story is told from alternating points of view of Zoe and Noah. Unlike many other books I have read (especially lately) the POV's are not by chapter, therefore you never know when you are going to shift POV's (which I kind of liked). Just when we think we know what is going on between Zoe and Noah, and know what they are each thinking, the POV switches, and learn that we didn't know the whole story. I really liked how Strauss built up the tension between the two of them with this tactic. However, I was very frustrated, with both Zoe and Noah and how they acted toward each other, clearly not understanding what each are really thinking and feeling.
As with
,Strauss weaves a believable scifi story, while focusing on what is really important in a story - the characters. I really enjoyed Volition, although it is not as good as its predecessor Perception - as this was clearly a "middle" book, but still a great story. The only thing that I really missed was the romance. I know that the focus was on Zoe and Noah escaping and trying to survive, while setting up relationships for the next two books in the series (with the return of Taylor Blake to shake things up? I hope not). However, the little glimpses that we do get of Zoe and Noah's love (as Zoe realizes that although she does not remember how she felt, it doesn't matter, because she understands why) are goosebump inducing! I wanted more!
April 26, 2014
This is actually my favorite book in the trilogy. It picks up where Perception left off with Noah desperate to get Zoe, the genetically enhanced girl he loves, back. He kidnaps her from the beach and helps her get her memories back that her grandfather, Senator Vanderveen, took from her.
As they run from the senator and the cyborgs he sends after them, Zoe slowly remembers that she was once in love with Noah, even if she doesn’t feel that way anymore. This is the aspect of the story that really works well. Watching Zoe struggle with what she believes and what she wants to believe kept me turning the page. Some of the high-tech aspects didn’t feel fully fleshed out and there were some plot holes that turned me off, but I was invested in Zoe and Noah enough to keep going.
Plot
I found the plot lacking in some areas. There didn’t seem to be a reason behind everything that happened and those oversights tended to bother me. If it’s not important to the plot, it doesn’t belong in the book. Period. Some of the romantic tension and conflict relies heavily on miscommunication and misunderstandings, which is common in young adult romances, but it didn’t feel contrived.
My biggest issues with the story stem from the implausible high-tech portions. I had to suspend my disbelief to get through some of it. I know a lot of popular fiction sets up the implausible as plausible and with solid world-building this can be seamless, but I didn’t feel like this was the case here. It felt like we’re being asked to just accept it without question rather than the author doing her homework.
Characters
The characters were my favorite part of the story. Told in dual points of view, we get to know Noah and Zoe better. Their characters are well-developed and believably flawed. Noah, the son of a pastor has strong beliefs that are tested when he falls for beautiful, genetically modified, Zoe. And Zoe’s faith in Noah is tested when he meets someone else who is more like Noah. You know that Noah and Zoe belong together, even though they come from very different worlds, and you only hope they’ll both figure it out before it’s too late.
Bottom Line
Volition is a solid follow up to Perception and leaves you wanting more. And luckily there’s a third book that picks right up and finishes the story. I don’t normally like cliffhangers, but this one is well enough done that I’m okay with it.
As they run from the senator and the cyborgs he sends after them, Zoe slowly remembers that she was once in love with Noah, even if she doesn’t feel that way anymore. This is the aspect of the story that really works well. Watching Zoe struggle with what she believes and what she wants to believe kept me turning the page. Some of the high-tech aspects didn’t feel fully fleshed out and there were some plot holes that turned me off, but I was invested in Zoe and Noah enough to keep going.
Plot
I found the plot lacking in some areas. There didn’t seem to be a reason behind everything that happened and those oversights tended to bother me. If it’s not important to the plot, it doesn’t belong in the book. Period. Some of the romantic tension and conflict relies heavily on miscommunication and misunderstandings, which is common in young adult romances, but it didn’t feel contrived.
My biggest issues with the story stem from the implausible high-tech portions. I had to suspend my disbelief to get through some of it. I know a lot of popular fiction sets up the implausible as plausible and with solid world-building this can be seamless, but I didn’t feel like this was the case here. It felt like we’re being asked to just accept it without question rather than the author doing her homework.
Characters
The characters were my favorite part of the story. Told in dual points of view, we get to know Noah and Zoe better. Their characters are well-developed and believably flawed. Noah, the son of a pastor has strong beliefs that are tested when he falls for beautiful, genetically modified, Zoe. And Zoe’s faith in Noah is tested when he meets someone else who is more like Noah. You know that Noah and Zoe belong together, even though they come from very different worlds, and you only hope they’ll both figure it out before it’s too late.
Bottom Line
Volition is a solid follow up to Perception and leaves you wanting more. And luckily there’s a third book that picks right up and finishes the story. I don’t normally like cliffhangers, but this one is well enough done that I’m okay with it.
August 9, 2013
Very different from Perception. Perception felt like a crime sort of book at core while Volition felt like a depressing romance with tons of action and adventure.
The Characters- Zoe and Noah are the main characters (of course) and both of them got an equal amount of POVs this time. Zoe is an emotional mess. She doesn't know how she feels about Noah and he just keeps pushing her away. Noah is a mess as well. He can't pretend to love this girl that he barely knows. That isn't his Zoe anymore. Taylor Blake was a welcomed addition to the team though. He is an arrogant troublemaker who has a lot of secrets. I enjoyed him. Taylor's pacifist "family" was very annoying at first but as i learned more I became more interested. I hated Mary... and not in a good way. She just seemed way too fake and out of place. Her brother was cool though. He was mysterious and broody. I liked him.
The Romance- IMPROVEMENT! Zoe and Noah have a lot of realistic issues and it made me want to cry. Then all these love triangles are thrown in which screws things up even more. Very well thought out but I did have a problem. Thats like all they talked about most times. By just focusing on Zoe's and Noah's relationship it takes away from the wonderful story that Perception setup.
Setting- Same as last book but this time they are on the run which makes things more interesting.
Story- Zoe and Noah are running from Zoe's grandfather and all of his goons. With all the information they know he is willing to do anything to get them back. So their faces are all over the world now. Scared and hidden they both think more about the future. With Zoe being a different person she and Noah in love anymore. This theme lasts through the whole book... It was exhausting. They find refuge in a community of pacifists. There Taylor becomes attracted to Zoe and that really messes up what was left of Noah and her's relationship. From there it is interesting but not amazing.
The Conclusion- The last 3 chapters of the book finally made it more intense and I was not disappointed. I liked the cliffhanger ending but what's the point of a cliffhanger if you can just read an excerpt from the next book. That ruins the surprise.
I'm hoping that this book's slow pacing is a one time thing. Therefore I will read the third book once it is released... I really hope it's better.
The Characters- Zoe and Noah are the main characters (of course) and both of them got an equal amount of POVs this time. Zoe is an emotional mess. She doesn't know how she feels about Noah and he just keeps pushing her away. Noah is a mess as well. He can't pretend to love this girl that he barely knows. That isn't his Zoe anymore. Taylor Blake was a welcomed addition to the team though. He is an arrogant troublemaker who has a lot of secrets. I enjoyed him. Taylor's pacifist "family" was very annoying at first but as i learned more I became more interested. I hated Mary... and not in a good way. She just seemed way too fake and out of place. Her brother was cool though. He was mysterious and broody. I liked him.
The Romance- IMPROVEMENT! Zoe and Noah have a lot of realistic issues and it made me want to cry. Then all these love triangles are thrown in which screws things up even more. Very well thought out but I did have a problem. Thats like all they talked about most times. By just focusing on Zoe's and Noah's relationship it takes away from the wonderful story that Perception setup.
Setting- Same as last book but this time they are on the run which makes things more interesting.
Story- Zoe and Noah are running from Zoe's grandfather and all of his goons. With all the information they know he is willing to do anything to get them back. So their faces are all over the world now. Scared and hidden they both think more about the future. With Zoe being a different person she and Noah in love anymore. This theme lasts through the whole book... It was exhausting. They find refuge in a community of pacifists. There Taylor becomes attracted to Zoe and that really messes up what was left of Noah and her's relationship. From there it is interesting but not amazing.
The Conclusion- The last 3 chapters of the book finally made it more intense and I was not disappointed. I liked the cliffhanger ending but what's the point of a cliffhanger if you can just read an excerpt from the next book. That ruins the surprise.
I'm hoping that this book's slow pacing is a one time thing. Therefore I will read the third book once it is released... I really hope it's better.
January 9, 2014
Lee Strauss establishes the pace and tone at the outset of Volition as we learn that Noah and Zoe are on the run from Grandpa Vanderveen, Agent Grant and the cyborgs. Although the reader expects the atmosphere to be tense between the couple because of their fear there is none of the signs of affection we have seen previously in Perception, even as comfort. It appears that their relationship has changed irreparably, as Zoe struggles to come to terms with her real identity and events with her family,
" I didn't know who I was anymore. Grandpa V, my parents and my ex-boyfriend, Jackson were to blame for that. The pink wig sat on the counter where I'd left it when I'd taken it off to shower. I twisted my hair into a bun and put it back on.
Was I this girl now?
And who exactly was she? The Zoe Vanderveen I was just a month ago no longer existed. That Zoe had an older brother she adored, wealthy and esteemed parents, and lived in a house on the ocean in the gated utopian community of Sol City.
That Zoe fell in love with a natural on the outside.
I bit my lip, remembering everything. The problem was I didn't feel anything."
The reader watches as Zoe and Noah dance around each other, at one point pretending to be cousins and though clearly each is jealous when the other receives attention from the opposite sex, they are too stubborn to admit their true feelings.
Lee Strauss keeps Volition unpredictable and whist we watch Noah and Zoe develop, new and interesting characters are introduced to the story, all of who help the two runaways on their journey. Volition becomes a tense chase which I thought kept the plot-line more fixating than Perception, and Lee Strauss is able to build the last few chapters of her story into a heart-stopping showdown, which had me reaching for the final book in the trilogy.
This is definitely one to read.
" I didn't know who I was anymore. Grandpa V, my parents and my ex-boyfriend, Jackson were to blame for that. The pink wig sat on the counter where I'd left it when I'd taken it off to shower. I twisted my hair into a bun and put it back on.
Was I this girl now?
And who exactly was she? The Zoe Vanderveen I was just a month ago no longer existed. That Zoe had an older brother she adored, wealthy and esteemed parents, and lived in a house on the ocean in the gated utopian community of Sol City.
That Zoe fell in love with a natural on the outside.
I bit my lip, remembering everything. The problem was I didn't feel anything."
The reader watches as Zoe and Noah dance around each other, at one point pretending to be cousins and though clearly each is jealous when the other receives attention from the opposite sex, they are too stubborn to admit their true feelings.
Lee Strauss keeps Volition unpredictable and whist we watch Noah and Zoe develop, new and interesting characters are introduced to the story, all of who help the two runaways on their journey. Volition becomes a tense chase which I thought kept the plot-line more fixating than Perception, and Lee Strauss is able to build the last few chapters of her story into a heart-stopping showdown, which had me reaching for the final book in the trilogy.
This is definitely one to read.
December 20, 2013
This was a good, fast enough paced read, but it kind of felt like it was a filler to mark the time until the next book. There was so much wonder, action, and awe in the 1st book, that the waiting around at various places was kind of a let down. Sure, there were some action scenes, sure there was a tiny bit of intrigue, but what the book had, it all came in small doses.
There weren't sharp revelations in this sequel to "Perceptions". There were some, but nothing mind blowing. The book was mostly about Zoe grappling with knowing she'd loved Noah before the memory wipe & being confused about it, and Noah being frustrated yet patient & understanding with her, but still willing to try to work things out, even though he'd say the opposite at times.
In Perception Zoe was a very STRONG character, very sure of herself & for the most part (except in the beginning where Noah was concerned) very sure about what direction she was going in, as risky as it was, to get to the bottom of what was really going on. She was confident and ready to take on the world. Now, obviously she had some major trauma occur, but even having her memories erased shouldn't have erased the core of who she was as a person. I felt that by making her into a seemingly fragile victim is where the author really kind of dropped the ball on this book. It was kind of a let down not seeing the courageous Zoe I'd come to know & admire from "Perception". Perhaps there's a reason for all this, though.
Perhaps the author needed to have Zoe broken a bit to make her character burst back with her old spark & zest for truth & justice in Contrition. I did buy Contrition, so I'll find out. I'm hoping this is the case.
While I recommend this book, I want to warn you there are many differences in the characters between Perception & Contrition, so be prepared for a different experience.
There weren't sharp revelations in this sequel to "Perceptions". There were some, but nothing mind blowing. The book was mostly about Zoe grappling with knowing she'd loved Noah before the memory wipe & being confused about it, and Noah being frustrated yet patient & understanding with her, but still willing to try to work things out, even though he'd say the opposite at times.
In Perception Zoe was a very STRONG character, very sure of herself & for the most part (except in the beginning where Noah was concerned) very sure about what direction she was going in, as risky as it was, to get to the bottom of what was really going on. She was confident and ready to take on the world. Now, obviously she had some major trauma occur, but even having her memories erased shouldn't have erased the core of who she was as a person. I felt that by making her into a seemingly fragile victim is where the author really kind of dropped the ball on this book. It was kind of a let down not seeing the courageous Zoe I'd come to know & admire from "Perception". Perhaps there's a reason for all this, though.
Perhaps the author needed to have Zoe broken a bit to make her character burst back with her old spark & zest for truth & justice in Contrition. I did buy Contrition, so I'll find out. I'm hoping this is the case.
While I recommend this book, I want to warn you there are many differences in the characters between Perception & Contrition, so be prepared for a different experience.
October 30, 2013
Good continuation of the series. The first half of the book is very fast-paced action as Zoe and Noah are moving from place to place to avoid being discovered. Grandpa V seems to have a team dedicated to finding them as he is busy running for president. Noah wishes he could do more by way of his blog protest and warning the public about Grandpa V's true motives but anytime he's posted something, they've been discovered.
Noah and Zoe continue to struggle through their feelings for each other and trying to figure out where their relationship stands. There's attraction and a desire to be together, but Noah wants it to be genuine and in doing so is pushing Zoe away. Zoe feels manipulated and a number of times it causes her to run away , which, of course, NEVER ends up well. There are some new characters introduced that come in-between the already tense relationship between Noah and Zoe.
The government continues to grow more and more dystopian at an alarming rate. It makes you wonder how the rest of the world can so easily be ok with all the new rules being introduced and technology taking over the world. Noah and Zoe however make new friends, though we have yet to figure out whether they can be trusted. They start learning how to fight, which does and will continue to come in handy in their fight for freedom.
The story is very well-written and flows very well from where book 1 left off. The story progresses at a good pace and we are left wanting to know more...on to book 3!!
Noah and Zoe continue to struggle through their feelings for each other and trying to figure out where their relationship stands. There's attraction and a desire to be together, but Noah wants it to be genuine and in doing so is pushing Zoe away. Zoe feels manipulated and a number of times it causes her to run away , which, of course, NEVER ends up well. There are some new characters introduced that come in-between the already tense relationship between Noah and Zoe.
The government continues to grow more and more dystopian at an alarming rate. It makes you wonder how the rest of the world can so easily be ok with all the new rules being introduced and technology taking over the world. Noah and Zoe however make new friends, though we have yet to figure out whether they can be trusted. They start learning how to fight, which does and will continue to come in handy in their fight for freedom.
The story is very well-written and flows very well from where book 1 left off. The story progresses at a good pace and we are left wanting to know more...on to book 3!!
July 3, 2015
I absolutely LOVED this book! Book 2 in the PERCEPTION series, this book follows Zoe and Noah on the run from her maniacal grandfather who is running for President. It's so much more than a Dystopian love story. It's a fabulous adventure of standing up for what is right and believing in who you really are. After Zoe regains her memories, she knows they are something she doesn't want to lose again and does all she can to stay one step ahead of her grandfather. You see her grow stronger, both physically and mentally. She realizes how shallow of a person she was living in her GAP bubble. Her eyes are opened to all the injustices in the world and the sickening feeling that she is related to the one person who is ultimately going to make it worse if he succeeds in his quest for President. In this story, Zoe and Noah become friends with Mary and Jabez, who take them in under their alias's. Little do they know that if they were to turn them in, they'd be 1.5 million richer. To offset their burden and make some money, Noah agrees to participate in an underground ultimate fight...and then eventually Zoe learns to fight as well. Lee Strauss is so detailed in her writing that I honestly felt as though I learned some self defense as well!! What a bonus! The story flows effortlessly, the characters are so well developed and the plot so well thought out, that I can only hope this will become a movie one day. As a reader, I felt their struggles, found myself cheering for them and am so excited to see how the final book brings it all together.
April 18, 2013
Volition is book 2 in the Perception series by Lee Strauss. Set in a futuristic world where genetic alteration is common place, Volition picks up where Perception (book 1) left off.
This roller coaster sequel is tense and exciting. Zoe's grandfather is running for president and he's not about to let Zoe get in the way. He ruthlessly pursues her and Noah across the country.
I was constantly urging them onwards and praying they could get away and stay safe!
Zoe is a completely different person than the Zoe we knew in Perception, she's more fragile and confused about how her feelings towards Noah. She knows that she loved him, but she doesn't really feel it, although as they run for their lives, feelings can change...
Poor Noah! He saves the girl he loves and now it's almost like she's gone. I so admired his loyalty to Zoe, no matter what was happening between them, he refuses to leave her and is determined to rescue them both.
Although the book was a thrilling and fast-paced read, I was disappointed by the romance aspect- but that's becasue I'm such a romance junkie! Zoe and Noahs' relationship in Volition basically comprised of a few misunderstandings, plenty of jealousy and a few electrifying close calls. Fingers crossed for more in the next book of the series!
Overall, a great, edgy read that keeps you guessing and wanting more.
I received a review copy from Orangeberry Book Tours, for my honest opinion.
This roller coaster sequel is tense and exciting. Zoe's grandfather is running for president and he's not about to let Zoe get in the way. He ruthlessly pursues her and Noah across the country.
I was constantly urging them onwards and praying they could get away and stay safe!
Zoe is a completely different person than the Zoe we knew in Perception, she's more fragile and confused about how her feelings towards Noah. She knows that she loved him, but she doesn't really feel it, although as they run for their lives, feelings can change...
Poor Noah! He saves the girl he loves and now it's almost like she's gone. I so admired his loyalty to Zoe, no matter what was happening between them, he refuses to leave her and is determined to rescue them both.
Although the book was a thrilling and fast-paced read, I was disappointed by the romance aspect- but that's becasue I'm such a romance junkie! Zoe and Noahs' relationship in Volition basically comprised of a few misunderstandings, plenty of jealousy and a few electrifying close calls. Fingers crossed for more in the next book of the series!
Overall, a great, edgy read that keeps you guessing and wanting more.
I received a review copy from Orangeberry Book Tours, for my honest opinion.
September 8, 2013
Volition continues the adventures of Zoe and Noah from Perception, the first novel in the series. The two are on the run from Zoe's grandfather and his evil henchmen and/or "henchborgs."
The pacing is relatively slow, but episodes of fast-paced action are interspersed every so often as Zoe and Noah seek a place of safety.
When Zoe's grandfather becomes the president, their efforts at anonymity become more difficult. President Vanderveen introduces more and more laws that make surviving a risky endeavor.
The religious overtones are there, but toned down, which makes the novel seem less didactic. I like that Noah has faith, but in this book Strauss lets it become an integral part of his personality and doesn't dwell on it.
The GAPs (genetically altered persons) vs Normals dilemma remains, but is also downplayed a bit as the additional dangers of Cyborgs and Humanoids gains prominence.
Ends with a cliff hanger.
Again, young audiences will probably enjoy the adventure and love triangle.
On the other hand, the novel can't compare to the John Marsden series Tomorrow When the War Began in depth of character or logic. Of course, there is a difference in the kind of war the young people are fighting, but Marsden excels in his ability create believable characters and situations.
Speculative Fiction/YA. 2013. 219 pages.
The pacing is relatively slow, but episodes of fast-paced action are interspersed every so often as Zoe and Noah seek a place of safety.
When Zoe's grandfather becomes the president, their efforts at anonymity become more difficult. President Vanderveen introduces more and more laws that make surviving a risky endeavor.
The religious overtones are there, but toned down, which makes the novel seem less didactic. I like that Noah has faith, but in this book Strauss lets it become an integral part of his personality and doesn't dwell on it.
The GAPs (genetically altered persons) vs Normals dilemma remains, but is also downplayed a bit as the additional dangers of Cyborgs and Humanoids gains prominence.
Ends with a cliff hanger.
Again, young audiences will probably enjoy the adventure and love triangle.
On the other hand, the novel can't compare to the John Marsden series Tomorrow When the War Began in depth of character or logic. Of course, there is a difference in the kind of war the young people are fighting, but Marsden excels in his ability create believable characters and situations.
Speculative Fiction/YA. 2013. 219 pages.
April 21, 2013
Wow. Right from the start I loved the two main characters, Noah and Zoe, and the dynamic between the two of them. It's as captivating as it is heartbreaking because there isn't simply the usual romantic tension between the two of them; Zoe is trying to figure out how she really feels about Noah because she can't recall the feelings she had before even though her memories of him are back. That intensity right at the start of the book carries through the rest of the text, leading the reader on a thrilling sci-fi ride.
What's great about this book is even the bad guys are cool, though I really wouldn't want to be chased by a bunch of cyborgs in a world where you can't trust anyone. Zoe is sure that something bad is going to happen to them and Noah is giving everything he has just so that he can protect her. I liked the little moments he had where he'd kind of question what he was doing, just grounding it in some kind of reality, though he always chose Zoe over everything else.
This is a great, quick, fun read that I really enjoyed. I love the setting, the detailed writing, and the characters are fantastic. I really think that it's Zoe and Noah who make the book, though of course all of the other elements only help to emphasize just how awesome the leading duo is.
What's great about this book is even the bad guys are cool, though I really wouldn't want to be chased by a bunch of cyborgs in a world where you can't trust anyone. Zoe is sure that something bad is going to happen to them and Noah is giving everything he has just so that he can protect her. I liked the little moments he had where he'd kind of question what he was doing, just grounding it in some kind of reality, though he always chose Zoe over everything else.
This is a great, quick, fun read that I really enjoyed. I love the setting, the detailed writing, and the characters are fantastic. I really think that it's Zoe and Noah who make the book, though of course all of the other elements only help to emphasize just how awesome the leading duo is.
March 16, 2014
This one was a bit rambly. With Noah and Zoe on the run, it felt a little like filler. But if you want your audience to feel as restless and jittery as the characters, then it worked perfectly. They spend this entire book on the run. Zoe is trying to figure out who she is now that her memories have been taken and then come back- issue being they feel like a dream and not her own. Noah knows this current Zoe isn't the one he fell in love with and isn't sure what to do because he doesn't want to complicate her life and he feels guilty. Obviously they try to stay away from each other and that is irritating. They fight a lot. But they get to now each other better and they start to understand things...like they are still the most important people to one another, and insta-love doesn't last, you have to have something deeper. Their world becomes so much more terrifying and they never feel safe. I think this one was necessary because it sets everything up for the final book.
October 1, 2014
So the main character loses her memory and Noah kidnaps her from her family and takes her on the run hoping the memory will return and she will once again be in love with him. They travel by their electric car to the "wilderness" and move from hotel to hotel hoping they don't get caught. Zoe's memory returns, but she's not sure about the feelings of love, if they are real or just a memory. They end up in a 'amish' type commune where they ruffle some feathers and meet a new interest for Zoe. They end up in MO and Noah trains to be a virtual fighter to earn money and the commune interest reemerges. Meanwhile Noah strikes up a relationship with another female. Ends quite in the middle of things and you are compelled to read the final book. Not too bad, but a little trite at times in the dialogue and I'm just not sure about these really conflicting feelings Zoe has for all these men. She seems shallow.
November 6, 2013
This book continues right from where the first book left off.
For me the problem is that this book felt like a completely different book from the first. The first book was like a mystery/crime solving book, while this was kind of a depressing romance on the run/end of the world kind of book.
This made the book slightly off kilter for me, and left me feeling more than a bit disconnected from the first story and the life it projected.
Noah and Zoe's friendship and relationship is tested constantly and the story seems more focused on emotional characters trying to react to what happened in the first book and how they are trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives.
The story unfolds much like the first book where you are given different POV and jump into the skin of the characters to see how they feel and what is going on through them.
For me the problem is that this book felt like a completely different book from the first. The first book was like a mystery/crime solving book, while this was kind of a depressing romance on the run/end of the world kind of book.
This made the book slightly off kilter for me, and left me feeling more than a bit disconnected from the first story and the life it projected.
Noah and Zoe's friendship and relationship is tested constantly and the story seems more focused on emotional characters trying to react to what happened in the first book and how they are trying to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives.
The story unfolds much like the first book where you are given different POV and jump into the skin of the characters to see how they feel and what is going on through them.
January 23, 2016
This one was hard to read. There is so much hurt and sorrow in this book. So much that it made me cry a few times. I love Noah and Zoe and want them to be together, but so many things are pulling them apart. I hope their love for each other will survive all that has happened to them, and I want grandpa V to go down. I like the new characters too and hope they all make it through and mess this world is in.
Merged review:
This one was hard to read. There is so much hurt and sorrow in this book. So much that it made me cry a few times. I love Noah and Zoe and want them to be together, but so many things are pulling them apart. I hope their love for each other will survive all that has happened to them, and I want grandpa V to go down. I like the new characters too and hope they all make it through and mess this world is in.
Merged review:
This one was hard to read. There is so much hurt and sorrow in this book. So much that it made me cry a few times. I love Noah and Zoe and want them to be together, but so many things are pulling them apart. I hope their love for each other will survive all that has happened to them, and I want grandpa V to go down. I like the new characters too and hope they all make it through and mess this world is in.
December 27, 2013
Zoe and Noah are on the run from the corruption of the government and genetically enhanced privileged society.
Zoe is genetically enhanced and her grandfather is a high level politician. She knows too much of his plans and the illegal activities he has participated in. She has suffered too much from his hands and lives life as a wanted fugitive.
This book follows Noah and Zoe as they flee. In some ways they are trying to figure out how to get their anti-government message across without getting caught.
It also tells of the evolution of their relationship and the influence of others as they try to figure things out.
This book is written well and full of action and adventure. There is a little bit of romance, but it is minimal in this book.
Zoe is genetically enhanced and her grandfather is a high level politician. She knows too much of his plans and the illegal activities he has participated in. She has suffered too much from his hands and lives life as a wanted fugitive.
This book follows Noah and Zoe as they flee. In some ways they are trying to figure out how to get their anti-government message across without getting caught.
It also tells of the evolution of their relationship and the influence of others as they try to figure things out.
This book is written well and full of action and adventure. There is a little bit of romance, but it is minimal in this book.
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