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Under Ground #1.5
Losing Ground
"The truth about our family would probably destroy my brother.
Chi is too naive, too gentle—far too weak to carry the weight of this reality.
Sometimes I hate him so much for it I can hardly breathe.
But I will make sure he never finds out what our parents truly are.
Monsters hiding in broad daylight." - Stephen Richards
**The author pledges to donate 100% of sales revenue from "Losing Ground" to RAINN.
Chi is too naive, too gentle—far too weak to carry the weight of this reality.
Sometimes I hate him so much for it I can hardly breathe.
But I will make sure he never finds out what our parents truly are.
Monsters hiding in broad daylight." - Stephen Richards
**The author pledges to donate 100% of sales revenue from "Losing Ground" to RAINN.
82 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2015
About the author
Alice Rachel
21 books275 followersUNDER GROUND Series Recommended Reading Order:
1 - UNDER GROUND - BOOK 1
2 - LOSING GROUND: A Stephen Richards Novella
3- STANDING GROUND - BOOK 2
4 - HOLDING GROUND: A Stephen Richards Novella 2
5 - COMMON GROUND: Kayla and Taylor's Story
6 - SHIFTING GROUND: A Short Story Collection
7 - DANGEROUS GROUND: Tina and Chase's Story (Out in October 2018)
8- BREAKING GROUND - BOOK 3 (Out in 2019)
Social Media Links:
Website
Facebook Reading Group
Facebook Author Profile
1 - UNDER GROUND - BOOK 1
2 - LOSING GROUND: A Stephen Richards Novella
3- STANDING GROUND - BOOK 2
4 - HOLDING GROUND: A Stephen Richards Novella 2
5 - COMMON GROUND: Kayla and Taylor's Story
6 - SHIFTING GROUND: A Short Story Collection
7 - DANGEROUS GROUND: Tina and Chase's Story (Out in October 2018)
8- BREAKING GROUND - BOOK 3 (Out in 2019)
Social Media Links:
Website
Facebook Reading Group
Facebook Author Profile
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 10, 2016
We met Stephen in underground, who is also our male protagonist's twin. Stephen's mean behavior might make some readers hate him instantly. Howbeit, I didn't judge him because I knew there was this novella and I wanted to peek into his mind before forming a fair opinion. So now that I've read losing ground, I have to admit that this novella surprised me, reason : short stories don't make me cry easily, you'll agree when I say it takes at least a few chapters to get emotionally attached to a character. It took me page 1 to fall in love. And if we see it this way - minus the bounus material, there are not even complete 100 pages, but 74! Wow. Sometimes it takes me 150+ pages to get into the story.
LG deserves 5 quality stars.
Stevie, Stevie, Stevie.
*Sigh*
Every word he spoke, his every thought was a punch to the gut.
His voice was poetic, raw and real. Some important scenes were not in graphic details, but their puissant effect crushed me.
I bawled my eyes out. This is easily the best novella I've ever read. If you've read underground then I highly recommend you to pick this masterpiece up.
I heard novella 2 will be more soul shattering.
*clutching heart* I am ready.
August 15, 2017
As a human being, I pride myself on having and developing a strong sense and quality of empathy over sympathy. Being an African American male growing up in the inner city of Detroit and then continuing on to teach in that same community, I’ve experienced enough, first and second-hand, to have had loads of practice to that end. Reading books like Jay Asher’s Thirteen Reasons Why makes me cringe when I see the reasons crafted by a writer for a character to take his or her own life, mental illness notwithstanding. Maybe it speaks to the times we live in.
But Alice Rachel gets it right. In Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1, Rachel paints the bleakest picture possible for Stephen Richards. Written with a more poetic sensibility than the previous works in the series, this novella captures Richard’s mindset completely. Rachel has set the stage my making two things perfectly clear, Richards has absolutely no place to go and no one to turn to. Rachel doesn’t stop there, adding the elements of an adolescent broken heart, parent betrayal, and abuse, giving a new meaning to the words desperate and hopeless. Great backstory pages here. This has story has become addictive.
But Alice Rachel gets it right. In Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1, Rachel paints the bleakest picture possible for Stephen Richards. Written with a more poetic sensibility than the previous works in the series, this novella captures Richard’s mindset completely. Rachel has set the stage my making two things perfectly clear, Richards has absolutely no place to go and no one to turn to. Rachel doesn’t stop there, adding the elements of an adolescent broken heart, parent betrayal, and abuse, giving a new meaning to the words desperate and hopeless. Great backstory pages here. This has story has become addictive.
April 7, 2018
"LOSING GROUND" is now available everywhere.
"The truth about our family would probably destroy my brother.
Chi is too naive, too gentle—
far too weak to carry the weight of this reality.
Sometimes I hate him so much for it
I can hardly breathe.
But I will make sure he never finds out
what our parents truly are.
Monsters hiding in broad daylight."
- Stephen Richards
**The author pledges to donate all proceeds from "LOSING GROUND" to RAINN (an anti-sexual violence organization)**
Link:
LOSING GROUND
"The truth about our family would probably destroy my brother.
Chi is too naive, too gentle—
far too weak to carry the weight of this reality.
Sometimes I hate him so much for it
I can hardly breathe.
But I will make sure he never finds out
what our parents truly are.
Monsters hiding in broad daylight."
- Stephen Richards
**The author pledges to donate all proceeds from "LOSING GROUND" to RAINN (an anti-sexual violence organization)**
Link:
LOSING GROUND
July 29, 2017
3.75 stars! Review to come.
October 16, 2016
Note: If you haven't read Under Ground (Book 1 of this series) yet, this review may contain slight spoilers for UG. You can read my review on Under Ground here. Losing Ground was sent to me by the author along with Under Ground, but she had not asked for a review on this novella.
Losing Ground is a short novella that takes place before Under Ground, but is best read after it. Alice Rachel has created beautifully complex characters in a saddening dystopia, and I love it. This novella follows the character of Stephen, Chi's older brother, and it's a huge insight into why he is the way he is in Under Ground.
Stephen's love interest, Willow, is introduced, and she is not only the focus of this story, but the focus of Stephen's life. He is deeply in love with her, but as she is an Unwanted (a second child in her family, which is illegal in this world), they cannot be together. Though it's a short book, it packs an emotional punch.
Not only is this Romeo & Juliet-esque story a heartbreaker, but Stephen's family dynamics are tragic as well. I don't want to give anything away regarding this, as it was a big surprise to me after reading Under Ground, and I want others to have the reading experience that Alice Rachel intended it to be.
This book was an emotional ride, but I am so glad to have read it. It has also made me even more excited for the next books in the series (Standing Ground, book 2, and Holding Ground, Stephen's next novella) which come out soon.
This review and others can also be found on my book blog: swimmingthroughliterature.wordpress.com.
Losing Ground is a short novella that takes place before Under Ground, but is best read after it. Alice Rachel has created beautifully complex characters in a saddening dystopia, and I love it. This novella follows the character of Stephen, Chi's older brother, and it's a huge insight into why he is the way he is in Under Ground.
Stephen's love interest, Willow, is introduced, and she is not only the focus of this story, but the focus of Stephen's life. He is deeply in love with her, but as she is an Unwanted (a second child in her family, which is illegal in this world), they cannot be together. Though it's a short book, it packs an emotional punch.
Not only is this Romeo & Juliet-esque story a heartbreaker, but Stephen's family dynamics are tragic as well. I don't want to give anything away regarding this, as it was a big surprise to me after reading Under Ground, and I want others to have the reading experience that Alice Rachel intended it to be.
This book was an emotional ride, but I am so glad to have read it. It has also made me even more excited for the next books in the series (Standing Ground, book 2, and Holding Ground, Stephen's next novella) which come out soon.
This review and others can also be found on my book blog: swimmingthroughliterature.wordpress.com.
November 18, 2015
Well this was a nice read
The novella is a bite from the novel Underground. It takes us into the minds of two characters that I really wanted to know more about, Chi's twin brother and his ex-girlfriend Willow.
The novella is a bite from the novel Underground. It takes us into the minds of two characters that I really wanted to know more about, Chi's twin brother and his ex-girlfriend Willow.
March 13, 2017
Losing Ground :A Stephen Richards Novella ( Underground 1.5 ) by Alice Rachel is an eighty page novella that I gave 4 out of 5 stars. This needs to be read as part of the series. This is the back story of Stephan told in first person POV before we met his character in book 1.
Stephen is Chi's twin brother,and though he wasn't a particularly likeable character in book 1-we begin to understand his demeanor and actions through his voice in this novella. You never know what someone is struggling with behind the scenes, and Stephen was dealing with many demons of his own, and we now get to see the emotional toll this took on him. Stephen and Chi are not close, Stephen has really struggled in his hatred of his brother whom he considers weak and gullible. But a brotherly bond still exists in that he feels he must protect Chi, as he is the stronger brother, and hide the true nature of their parents.
Such a short novella, but with a huge emotional impact! I really loved seeing how Stephen became who he is, and seeing the dynamics between the brothers before Underground. I can't wait to read what's next for these two!
Stephen is Chi's twin brother,and though he wasn't a particularly likeable character in book 1-we begin to understand his demeanor and actions through his voice in this novella. You never know what someone is struggling with behind the scenes, and Stephen was dealing with many demons of his own, and we now get to see the emotional toll this took on him. Stephen and Chi are not close, Stephen has really struggled in his hatred of his brother whom he considers weak and gullible. But a brotherly bond still exists in that he feels he must protect Chi, as he is the stronger brother, and hide the true nature of their parents.
Such a short novella, but with a huge emotional impact! I really loved seeing how Stephen became who he is, and seeing the dynamics between the brothers before Underground. I can't wait to read what's next for these two!
March 10, 2017
Losing Ground by Alice Rachel is a short novella in her Under Ground series. It should be read after Under Ground, so that the story flows. We get to read this short story in a first person perspective, that mainly being Stephen’s. We can see and almost feel his emotions and thoughts about everyone including his mother and brother.
Stephen’s rage and hate is seen right from the beginning, and while we don't know exactly who or why he's mad. We come to find out it's his brother Chi, he can't help but dislike him because of the favoritism shown by their mother. Having to keep quiet about him, because of the limit on children allowed per family has driven Stephen mad. He is about to “go off the deep end” when he meets a person that might be the safety he needs. After meeting in secret since they were young children, Stephen and Willow have kept their relationship a secret, fully aware,, that they would not be allowed to be together, EVER!!!
Stephen’s rage and hate is seen right from the beginning, and while we don't know exactly who or why he's mad. We come to find out it's his brother Chi, he can't help but dislike him because of the favoritism shown by their mother. Having to keep quiet about him, because of the limit on children allowed per family has driven Stephen mad. He is about to “go off the deep end” when he meets a person that might be the safety he needs. After meeting in secret since they were young children, Stephen and Willow have kept their relationship a secret, fully aware,, that they would not be allowed to be together, EVER!!!
March 13, 2017
4 Stars
“I pledge to donate 100% of sales revenue from ‘Losing Ground’ to RAINN.” Alice Rachel….
Losing Ground is a Stephen Richards novella and #1.5 in the Under Ground series by Alice Rachel. It is set before Under Ground, but is meant to be read after Under Ground.
The story is based on Stephen Richards, who we met in the first book Under Ground- Stephen is Chi’s older twin brother. He didn’t make a very good impression in the first book, but even so I was curious to know more about him and what made him so angry.
This book answers all the questions I had, as to why Stephen acts the way he does- but I wasn’t expecting the reasons that were given. They were a total surprise/shock. My heart broke for him and everything he had been through. The story also explores the love between him and the love of his life, Willow.
Stephen carries a dark secret, something that would shatter his kind, gentle, naive little brother’s heart. He knows the truth about their parents and he will do everything he can to protect Chi from that monstrous reality.
Having to carry the burden of such a destructive secret alone, makes Stephen envious of Chi’s obliviousness to the facts. This causes him some resentment and creates friction between the brothers, as Chi has no idea why his brother ‘hates’ him so much.
This story is a quick easy read. It has a fast pace and contains a lot of information for such a small package, but doesn’t feel cut short or rushed in any way. It is really well written, with so much emotional content I found it really tragic and heartbreaking at times.
The author has quite a poetic style to her writing in this novella, which really suited the whole ‘tone’ of the story. The story has a complexity and an intensity that was unexpected for such a short story.
I can’t wait to continue the stories in the next few books.
Thank you Alice Rachel!
“I pledge to donate 100% of sales revenue from ‘Losing Ground’ to RAINN.” Alice Rachel….
Losing Ground is a Stephen Richards novella and #1.5 in the Under Ground series by Alice Rachel. It is set before Under Ground, but is meant to be read after Under Ground.
The story is based on Stephen Richards, who we met in the first book Under Ground- Stephen is Chi’s older twin brother. He didn’t make a very good impression in the first book, but even so I was curious to know more about him and what made him so angry.
This book answers all the questions I had, as to why Stephen acts the way he does- but I wasn’t expecting the reasons that were given. They were a total surprise/shock. My heart broke for him and everything he had been through. The story also explores the love between him and the love of his life, Willow.
Stephen carries a dark secret, something that would shatter his kind, gentle, naive little brother’s heart. He knows the truth about their parents and he will do everything he can to protect Chi from that monstrous reality.
Having to carry the burden of such a destructive secret alone, makes Stephen envious of Chi’s obliviousness to the facts. This causes him some resentment and creates friction between the brothers, as Chi has no idea why his brother ‘hates’ him so much.
This story is a quick easy read. It has a fast pace and contains a lot of information for such a small package, but doesn’t feel cut short or rushed in any way. It is really well written, with so much emotional content I found it really tragic and heartbreaking at times.
The author has quite a poetic style to her writing in this novella, which really suited the whole ‘tone’ of the story. The story has a complexity and an intensity that was unexpected for such a short story.
I can’t wait to continue the stories in the next few books.
Thank you Alice Rachel!
September 6, 2016
Microscopic Familiarities (Losing Ground Review)
*VERY MINUTE SPOILERS AHEAD*
Have you ever once bought a new book because you have been wanting it for ages since it's had so much great reviews, since the prequel has amazed you so desperately and yet it broke your heart because it was not as you had imagined?
Losing Ground has broken ny heart; and not for the lack of amazement at this short (albeit VERY SHORT) look into Stephen's mind and it has broken me into a million pieces, I found myself tearing through the pages dreading and at the same time looking forward to the confirmation of what his father has done to him.
I found myself in deep sorrow and shame and anger at myself for judging Stephen so quickly! Nothing is as it seems and Rachel, dear, sweet, Rachel you are not as you seem you are heartless for this! But I love it. It broke me entirely and I will never be the same after this.
This has confirmed a child's worst fear, this is what it feels to be hurt and scared and strong at the same time. Losing the love of your life to your brother, being scared shitless by your father and tormented by your mother, I know it all too well (hugs Stephen) this series has so far amazed me. It has gripped me entirely and I never want to leave it, it just might be my next Harry Potter! Although, nothing could ever replace Harry Potter in my life.
The only thing I disliked a little bit with the book is that it was quite confusing at first with all the suspense about what Stephen was hiding why he deems himself so unworthy of his one great love, and when I found out, it shattered me. It shattered me like everythinng about Chi and Stephen; and that is a mark of a wonderful story.
Would I recommend this? Of course I would! 10/10! Go grab a copy now! Available in Amazon, Bookdepository and www.alicerachelwrites.com.
Tags:
Categories: Uncategorized
*VERY MINUTE SPOILERS AHEAD*
Have you ever once bought a new book because you have been wanting it for ages since it's had so much great reviews, since the prequel has amazed you so desperately and yet it broke your heart because it was not as you had imagined?
Losing Ground has broken ny heart; and not for the lack of amazement at this short (albeit VERY SHORT) look into Stephen's mind and it has broken me into a million pieces, I found myself tearing through the pages dreading and at the same time looking forward to the confirmation of what his father has done to him.
I found myself in deep sorrow and shame and anger at myself for judging Stephen so quickly! Nothing is as it seems and Rachel, dear, sweet, Rachel you are not as you seem you are heartless for this! But I love it. It broke me entirely and I will never be the same after this.
This has confirmed a child's worst fear, this is what it feels to be hurt and scared and strong at the same time. Losing the love of your life to your brother, being scared shitless by your father and tormented by your mother, I know it all too well (hugs Stephen) this series has so far amazed me. It has gripped me entirely and I never want to leave it, it just might be my next Harry Potter! Although, nothing could ever replace Harry Potter in my life.
The only thing I disliked a little bit with the book is that it was quite confusing at first with all the suspense about what Stephen was hiding why he deems himself so unworthy of his one great love, and when I found out, it shattered me. It shattered me like everythinng about Chi and Stephen; and that is a mark of a wonderful story.
Would I recommend this? Of course I would! 10/10! Go grab a copy now! Available in Amazon, Bookdepository and www.alicerachelwrites.com.
Tags:
Categories: Uncategorized
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2016
This book by itself would be good, but I read it right after I finished Under Ground, and that really set the tone. In Under Ground one really hated Stephen Richards. I don't really see a way in which one could like him. He's awful, he does awful things. But when I read this I felt an overwhelming sense of pity for him. I felt so bad for him. Yeah, things could have been worse, but I felt so bad for him. Living in a shadow is pretty dark.
Stephen seemed like a whiny character to me at first. That one person that pops in your head when you think of someone who has nothing happy to say, always complaining about how bad their life is. Throughout the story though one got validation for his feelings. You wanted something better for him. Or at least I did. Especially with her Daddy issues....
One thing that really bugged me in this novella was that Chi seemed way nicer in this book compared to his voice in Under Ground. Maybe it way because Chi was a more innocent boy then compared to now. Chi might have been too nice, he was possibly too innocent, that didn't seem very believable to me.
Lastly, something I really loved in this novella was the verse in which it was written, it was so good! Reminded me a lot of Crash by Ellen Hopkins. You got all of Stephen's feelings and such. That was what made the book what it was for me. So good!
I would recommend this book to anyone who thinks that Stephen was such an awful character in the first book, which I think should be everyone. Miss Alice was very good at getting her point across there. Overall this was a very good book. I love it!
Stephen seemed like a whiny character to me at first. That one person that pops in your head when you think of someone who has nothing happy to say, always complaining about how bad their life is. Throughout the story though one got validation for his feelings. You wanted something better for him. Or at least I did. Especially with her Daddy issues....
One thing that really bugged me in this novella was that Chi seemed way nicer in this book compared to his voice in Under Ground. Maybe it way because Chi was a more innocent boy then compared to now. Chi might have been too nice, he was possibly too innocent, that didn't seem very believable to me.
Lastly, something I really loved in this novella was the verse in which it was written, it was so good! Reminded me a lot of Crash by Ellen Hopkins. You got all of Stephen's feelings and such. That was what made the book what it was for me. So good!
I would recommend this book to anyone who thinks that Stephen was such an awful character in the first book, which I think should be everyone. Miss Alice was very good at getting her point across there. Overall this was a very good book. I love it!
March 28, 2016
My admiration for this author continues to grow as I found Losing Ground to be unlike anything else that I have ever read. Told in the first person, from Stephen's perspective, there was an almost poetic cadence to the text that just touched me right from the beginning. Despite this different style the story was once again flawless and emotionally gripping. This novella should be read after Underground although it takes us back to a time a few years before that story.
Stephen's pain and rage are evident right from the beginning although the source of his torment is unknown at first. Chi, the hero from Underground and Stephen are identical twins but because of the strict laws regarding the number of children allowed per family in this post-apocalyptic society, Chi as the youngest, should not have been allowed to live. Unwilling to give up their son, the boys' parents kept Chi hidden, forcing Stephen to pretend that he was an only child and to share the family's already meager resources with his brother. A certain amount of resentment was sure to develop but Stephen's obvious distress seems to go much deeper than that His desperation and self-loathing are painful to read, the one bright light in his young life, the love he feels for the pure and innocent Willow. Meeting in secret since they were children, Stephen and Willow have kept their relationship a secret, aware, even then, that they would never be allowed to be together...
Stephen's pain and rage are evident right from the beginning although the source of his torment is unknown at first. Chi, the hero from Underground and Stephen are identical twins but because of the strict laws regarding the number of children allowed per family in this post-apocalyptic society, Chi as the youngest, should not have been allowed to live. Unwilling to give up their son, the boys' parents kept Chi hidden, forcing Stephen to pretend that he was an only child and to share the family's already meager resources with his brother. A certain amount of resentment was sure to develop but Stephen's obvious distress seems to go much deeper than that His desperation and self-loathing are painful to read, the one bright light in his young life, the love he feels for the pure and innocent Willow. Meeting in secret since they were children, Stephen and Willow have kept their relationship a secret, aware, even then, that they would never be allowed to be together...
March 12, 2017
Written by Alice Rachel, Losing Ground is a Stephen Richards Novella. This book is part of a series which includes 3 books and 3 novellas. Losing Ground is Stephens novella following Under Ground (book 1). You learn a little bit about Stephen in Under Ground, as he is Chi's brother. In Under Ground he comes off as the dark and evil brother but we learn this isnt always true. This is the story of Stephen and willow…and Chi. Its all Stephens perspective growing up and how he got to where he is now including doing everything he can to protect Chi, regardless of how he feels about his brother and family. Chi doesn’t really know what is going on or happening, he only thinks he does.
“I am not good enough for her. But I need her. And she can never know. She can never find out why I need her. Shes so pure. Every touch from her takes a bit of my filth away. Her angels fight my demons, winning a battle ive already lost”. With everything going on in Stephens life Willow is always the one to bring him back from his thoughts, she is everything to him.
“ His protection is all ive ever cared about. I could destroy him with just a few words.” And Stephen has thoughts like this a lot, just let Chi know the truth, but its not Chis fault he doesn’t know the truth.
Losing Ground is a fairly quick read, you learn a lot about Stephen and it makes his character more understandable. The entire story is in Stephens perspective and thoughts.
“I am not good enough for her. But I need her. And she can never know. She can never find out why I need her. Shes so pure. Every touch from her takes a bit of my filth away. Her angels fight my demons, winning a battle ive already lost”. With everything going on in Stephens life Willow is always the one to bring him back from his thoughts, she is everything to him.
“ His protection is all ive ever cared about. I could destroy him with just a few words.” And Stephen has thoughts like this a lot, just let Chi know the truth, but its not Chis fault he doesn’t know the truth.
Losing Ground is a fairly quick read, you learn a lot about Stephen and it makes his character more understandable. The entire story is in Stephens perspective and thoughts.
March 12, 2017
5 star
Losing Ground By Alice Rachel A Stephen Richards Novella (Underground 1.5)
Losing Ground :A Stephen Richards Novella ( Underground 1.5 ) By Alice Rachel is the second book in this series.This is a continuation of Underground but this story is told by Stephen, his point of view and his view on what happened before we meet in him Underground.
In this story we get to know and understand Stephens character,and why he is the way he is.while reading this story I was emotional and angry at the same time. I was instantly hooked.Stephen as you might remember from underground is Chi's twin brother,and d because chi was not supposed to live,he has hidden.Chi has not only been hide from the world but also the truth about his parents.They are not nice people Stephen is very determined to keep the truth about his family from Chi.Stephen is afraid that if Chi finds out the truth that it will destroy him,although Stephen can't stand him,it's because he thinks his brother is weak,to gentle and very naive. I loved this story, I'm looking forward to seeing what happens between Stephen and Chi.This book will have you feeling like your on a up and down roller-coaster, of emothions.This was my second book by this author and I can see myself reading many more.I definitely recommend this book.
Losing Ground By Alice Rachel A Stephen Richards Novella (Underground 1.5)
Losing Ground :A Stephen Richards Novella ( Underground 1.5 ) By Alice Rachel is the second book in this series.This is a continuation of Underground but this story is told by Stephen, his point of view and his view on what happened before we meet in him Underground.
In this story we get to know and understand Stephens character,and why he is the way he is.while reading this story I was emotional and angry at the same time. I was instantly hooked.Stephen as you might remember from underground is Chi's twin brother,and d because chi was not supposed to live,he has hidden.Chi has not only been hide from the world but also the truth about his parents.They are not nice people Stephen is very determined to keep the truth about his family from Chi.Stephen is afraid that if Chi finds out the truth that it will destroy him,although Stephen can't stand him,it's because he thinks his brother is weak,to gentle and very naive. I loved this story, I'm looking forward to seeing what happens between Stephen and Chi.This book will have you feeling like your on a up and down roller-coaster, of emothions.This was my second book by this author and I can see myself reading many more.I definitely recommend this book.
March 21, 2017
Losing Ground by Alice Rachel a strong and hard-fighting five-star read. This is the first novella in the Under Ground series and sits as book 1.5 in the series and tells us the point of view of Stephen Richards the brother of Chi whom we met in the first book of the series Under ground. This series gets better with every book I read.
When we met all of the characters in the first book, there was something about Stephen that you couldn’t put your finger on, he just didn’t sit right. This story explains why, its him telling his story and it will completely change your view of him. Stephen went from being someone I didn’t like very much, to someone I wanted to help make everything right in the world with, not just because of what he faced, but how he deals with everything in his own way. Also the way his story is worded makes such a difference, Alice Rachel showed great talent by allowing the story to unfold naturally without having to over write the situations. There is a positivity beneath the words that shines a light on them, and makes this a compelling read, that once you pick up you won’t put down until you have devoured every single word.
When we met all of the characters in the first book, there was something about Stephen that you couldn’t put your finger on, he just didn’t sit right. This story explains why, its him telling his story and it will completely change your view of him. Stephen went from being someone I didn’t like very much, to someone I wanted to help make everything right in the world with, not just because of what he faced, but how he deals with everything in his own way. Also the way his story is worded makes such a difference, Alice Rachel showed great talent by allowing the story to unfold naturally without having to over write the situations. There is a positivity beneath the words that shines a light on them, and makes this a compelling read, that once you pick up you won’t put down until you have devoured every single word.
June 29, 2016
"I wonder if mother would be the same without him. I wonder if she's like that with me because of him. But I can't think like that. This is not about him. This is about father. Mother hates me because of Father."
Alice Rachel is extremely kind to give us this novella! This is basically how Stephen became the man he is today and why he is so angry.
We get to see how Stephen's mom treated him and Chi. She definitely does not treat them fairly. We also get to see what the whole deal was with Chi, Stephen, and Willow! It really surprised me and was not what I expected. The behavior of Stephen's parents also surprised me! Alice Rachel also shows us a glimpse of the day that Chi's family disappeared from his life.
I really enjoyed this novella! It was short, sweet, and to the point. It definitely adds to the story. I feel like a lot of novellas out there are either super awesome or not important at all. Losing Ground was one of those awesome ones! If you read and enjoyed Under Ground, then you need this novella in your life!
Alice Rachel is extremely kind to give us this novella! This is basically how Stephen became the man he is today and why he is so angry.
We get to see how Stephen's mom treated him and Chi. She definitely does not treat them fairly. We also get to see what the whole deal was with Chi, Stephen, and Willow! It really surprised me and was not what I expected. The behavior of Stephen's parents also surprised me! Alice Rachel also shows us a glimpse of the day that Chi's family disappeared from his life.
I really enjoyed this novella! It was short, sweet, and to the point. It definitely adds to the story. I feel like a lot of novellas out there are either super awesome or not important at all. Losing Ground was one of those awesome ones! If you read and enjoyed Under Ground, then you need this novella in your life!
October 23, 2016
*Author sent me a free copy in exchange of an honest review*
After reading Under Ground, I immediately started reading Losing Ground which is a novella about Stephen—Chi’s twin brother. I was excited to get to know Stephen better. He was first introduced in Under Ground and my first impression with him wasn’t pleasant because of his mean behavior.
Anyway, a few pages into this book and it already gave me the feels. It made my heart ache and I really feel sad for him. I can actually feel his pain and agony. The book, however, is intriguing. I wanted to find out more about their parents and what other secrets there are.
His story only consists of 74 pages, I finished it in one sitting and I love it. It might be short but it is amazing nonetheless.
After reading Under Ground, I immediately started reading Losing Ground which is a novella about Stephen—Chi’s twin brother. I was excited to get to know Stephen better. He was first introduced in Under Ground and my first impression with him wasn’t pleasant because of his mean behavior.
Anyway, a few pages into this book and it already gave me the feels. It made my heart ache and I really feel sad for him. I can actually feel his pain and agony. The book, however, is intriguing. I wanted to find out more about their parents and what other secrets there are.
His story only consists of 74 pages, I finished it in one sitting and I love it. It might be short but it is amazing nonetheless.
April 18, 2017
Well, I didn't really anticipate that after reading Under Ground. My heart breaks for Stephen, and everything makes so much more sense now. I loved getting this back story and how much richer it makes the first book. I can't wait to move on to the next!!
August 23, 2016
I can't read anything else for a while after suffering turmoil at the hands of this novel. I despise Willow. That is all.
March 25, 2017
I am giving this novella a four-star rating.
Things are different in the world they live in. Poverty has run rampant and the authorities have taken over. They control everything from the amount of food the characters are rationed to the number of children they are allowed to have.
Although I absolutely love this author and these stories, I found the repetitive obsession that Stephen has with Willow throughout all eighty pages to be a little monotonous. The story of the law about more than one child is not unfamiliar to me, however, if a reader picked this up as a stand-alone they may have been a little confused by Stephen’s anger.
Losing Ground, by Alice Rachel, creates a storyline that is an explanation mainly of why Stephen is angry with his twin brother, Chi and his struggle to have a love that he can never have. I whole series is wonderful…as a unit. I would definitely recommend the whole series to my friends.
Things are different in the world they live in. Poverty has run rampant and the authorities have taken over. They control everything from the amount of food the characters are rationed to the number of children they are allowed to have.
Although I absolutely love this author and these stories, I found the repetitive obsession that Stephen has with Willow throughout all eighty pages to be a little monotonous. The story of the law about more than one child is not unfamiliar to me, however, if a reader picked this up as a stand-alone they may have been a little confused by Stephen’s anger.
Losing Ground, by Alice Rachel, creates a storyline that is an explanation mainly of why Stephen is angry with his twin brother, Chi and his struggle to have a love that he can never have. I whole series is wonderful…as a unit. I would definitely recommend the whole series to my friends.
March 15, 2017
losing Ground a Stephen Richards Novella by Alice Rachel is part of the Underground series but it isn't the second book. There is a series of novellas that seem to run parallel to the books and this is the first Novella. Well this is a five star read, I don't normally care for novellas as they are just too short but this one fair packs a punch, it absolutely broke my heart. We are introduced to Stephen in the first underground book, he is Chi’s twin brother, he is not painted in a good light and certainly appears to be a pretty nasty character
Losing Ground fills in part of the background to the boys life growing up together from Stephens point of view and I honestly do not want to say any more about the story as you really need to read it and feel the impact yourself.
The story jumps about a bit, time lines seem confused and it is cloudy at times. I feel this is all deliberate and reflects what is going on in Stephen’s head, it is a clever way of showing his frame of mind. The story still flows despite this and it does feel right especially nearer the end of the novella, the confusion falls into place.
I really do like this author a lot, the dystopian world she has created is realistic and scary. I love the characters, they all seem to be lost in a civilisation that they don't want to be part of and abhor.
This book really made me upset, I really truly felt for the characters and the position they were in, for a novella there is a lot in there to absorb.
I really cannot wait to read more of this series and see where the characters go next.
March 13, 2017
Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 should be read after having finished Under Ground which is Book 1 in Alice Rachel’s Under Ground series! It is NOT a standalone! You will feel completely lost (even though it does take place BEFORE the events in Book 1).
Alice Rachel’s incredible dystopian world is filled with complex characters and this novella gives one an amazing insight into Chi’s older twin brother Stephen and his behavior in Book 1. It is a short story but it packs a punch and it leaves you breathless and emotionally drained.
To all Stephen haters, please read the novella, you really need to! The way the author has written the story – the way Stephen speaks … it crushes you, you can just feel the demons he is fighting … I cried and cried and I was happy that I had read Under Ground as having had to start with this novella, it would simply had killed me, emotionally …
I am looking forward to reading Book 2 and Stephen’s next novella, I love how the writer is giving him words to express his inner thoughts and struggles! Thank you Alice Rachel!
Alice Rachel’s incredible dystopian world is filled with complex characters and this novella gives one an amazing insight into Chi’s older twin brother Stephen and his behavior in Book 1. It is a short story but it packs a punch and it leaves you breathless and emotionally drained.
To all Stephen haters, please read the novella, you really need to! The way the author has written the story – the way Stephen speaks … it crushes you, you can just feel the demons he is fighting … I cried and cried and I was happy that I had read Under Ground as having had to start with this novella, it would simply had killed me, emotionally …
I am looking forward to reading Book 2 and Stephen’s next novella, I love how the writer is giving him words to express his inner thoughts and struggles! Thank you Alice Rachel!
November 18, 2015
Although, this novella is meant to be read after the first book in the series, it is technically a prequel. Overall, it does a great job at giving more insight into Stephen's character--he's brash, dramatic, quite moody and extremely tortured (for a good reason). His conflicting feelings are eating him alive and he is constantly lashing out, even towards people he cares about. Since it has two alternating timelines, I would have liked to have some indication of Stephen's age during each narrative.
Also, there's a list of upcoming releases for the series and it seems all of the other novellas are in pairs. It feels like Willow got cheated because her voice is never really heard. The reader does not get to see who she really is. I *think* this was because the reader sees Willow through Stephen's eyes--she's basically the light of his life BUT he only seemed to care about what she did for him (i.e. made him hurt less). He's projecting and uplifting her as a perfect angel. In the paperback version (not sure about the ebook) there is a supplemental short story from Willow's POV, but it still managed to be completely focused on Stephen. Clearly, she's a nice girl who wants to please everyone and make them happy, but I wanted to know who she was outside of her feelings for him. What were her goals/dreams BESIDES being with Stephen? It's clear her family loved her (as opposed to Stephen and his familial relations) even though she's an Unwanted but again, the only time we see Willow interacting with her family is when they want to talk to her about her relationship with Stephen (or *spoiler* Chi).
I would've loved to have seen the events from her POV, learned more about her character, her family, and how she's surviving in the world incorporated into the official novella (not as a supplemental short story) to give her character more depth and agency. Since my main issue was with Willow and this was not her story, I did not let that affect my rating.
Also, there's a list of upcoming releases for the series and it seems all of the other novellas are in pairs. It feels like Willow got cheated because her voice is never really heard. The reader does not get to see who she really is. I *think* this was because the reader sees Willow through Stephen's eyes--she's basically the light of his life BUT he only seemed to care about what she did for him (i.e. made him hurt less). He's projecting and uplifting her as a perfect angel. In the paperback version (not sure about the ebook) there is a supplemental short story from Willow's POV, but it still managed to be completely focused on Stephen. Clearly, she's a nice girl who wants to please everyone and make them happy, but I wanted to know who she was outside of her feelings for him. What were her goals/dreams BESIDES being with Stephen? It's clear her family loved her (as opposed to Stephen and his familial relations) even though she's an Unwanted but again, the only time we see Willow interacting with her family is when they want to talk to her about her relationship with Stephen (or *spoiler* Chi).
I would've loved to have seen the events from her POV, learned more about her character, her family, and how she's surviving in the world incorporated into the official novella (not as a supplemental short story) to give her character more depth and agency. Since my main issue was with Willow and this was not her story, I did not let that affect my rating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2017
***3 Stars***
Losing Ground (Underground #1.5) by Alice Rachel
Losing Ground is a novella that follows Stephen Richards, who we met in the first book of the series, Underground. It explores what took place before the time period in Underground, and what makes Stephen the person he is today. I give this novella 3 stars. We see how Stephen meets and interacts with Willow, as well as how Stephen's home life is. The novella shows the differences between how Stephen and his brother Chi are treated by their mother and how that also impacts their relationship with one another. The story also divulged some terrible things with regards to the boys’ father and show the true reason for Stephen being the character we kind of didn't understand and didn't like in the first book. Through it all, the anger and hatred, Stephen still protects his brother Chi from knowing the truth about their family.
Through this story the author helps us understand Stephen more deeply and become emotionally interested and protective of him. This novella was very short and I feel like if it wasn't so brief the story may have been more enjoyable. The story seemed to drag on and be somewhat repetitive and left me almost to the point of just skimming the words up until the actual point where the reality of things was brought to the surface toward the end of the novella. This story was fine, and I liked learning more of Stephen’s background and what has made him the person he is, but I feel like it almost could've been made into a prologue or epilogue for another novel and given me the information provided in this novella. I do recommend this series as the character development is there and the tough subject matter touched on toward the last part of the novella is a hard thing to ease a reader into. With 100% of the sales revenue of this novella going to RAINN, it's definitely something everyone should purchase.
Losing Ground (Underground #1.5) by Alice Rachel
Losing Ground is a novella that follows Stephen Richards, who we met in the first book of the series, Underground. It explores what took place before the time period in Underground, and what makes Stephen the person he is today. I give this novella 3 stars. We see how Stephen meets and interacts with Willow, as well as how Stephen's home life is. The novella shows the differences between how Stephen and his brother Chi are treated by their mother and how that also impacts their relationship with one another. The story also divulged some terrible things with regards to the boys’ father and show the true reason for Stephen being the character we kind of didn't understand and didn't like in the first book. Through it all, the anger and hatred, Stephen still protects his brother Chi from knowing the truth about their family.
Through this story the author helps us understand Stephen more deeply and become emotionally interested and protective of him. This novella was very short and I feel like if it wasn't so brief the story may have been more enjoyable. The story seemed to drag on and be somewhat repetitive and left me almost to the point of just skimming the words up until the actual point where the reality of things was brought to the surface toward the end of the novella. This story was fine, and I liked learning more of Stephen’s background and what has made him the person he is, but I feel like it almost could've been made into a prologue or epilogue for another novel and given me the information provided in this novella. I do recommend this series as the character development is there and the tough subject matter touched on toward the last part of the novella is a hard thing to ease a reader into. With 100% of the sales revenue of this novella going to RAINN, it's definitely something everyone should purchase.
March 10, 2017
Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 (Under Ground #1.5) by Alice Rachel is the second story in the Under Ground series. This story is a continuation of Under Ground but in this story it is told by Stephen and his point of view of things that happened before we meet him in Under Ground. This story will help you understand Stephen's character and why he feels the way he does. You will love how the author has given his point of view that will pull at your heart strings and make you feel what he is feeling. This story will make you feel a variety of things from anger, to sadness to compassion. Find out Stephen's side of things!
Stephen Richards is the twin brother of Chi. Because Chi was not suppose to live, he has been hidden. Not only has he been hidden from the world but also the truth of what their parents really are, monsters. Stephen is determined to hide the truth about his family from his brother. He is afraid if he found out it would destroy him. He can't stand his brother, he is weak, naive and just too gentle. Find out what happens when decisions are made about their future.
This is my second story by Alice Rachel and I know it won't be the last, I can't wait to see what will happen to Stephen and Chi. Alice loves spending time with her husband and guinea pigs. When she is not writing, she teaches French, reading and drawing. I love that this author has the proceeds from this book going to a great cause, anti-sexual violence association. This is a one sitting read that will leave you wanting more. This story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions that will leave you feeling what the heck and other times feeling the love of the characters. I highly recommend this story as I know you will find it to be a fast page turner like I did and you will lose yourself in this story.
Stephen Richards is the twin brother of Chi. Because Chi was not suppose to live, he has been hidden. Not only has he been hidden from the world but also the truth of what their parents really are, monsters. Stephen is determined to hide the truth about his family from his brother. He is afraid if he found out it would destroy him. He can't stand his brother, he is weak, naive and just too gentle. Find out what happens when decisions are made about their future.
This is my second story by Alice Rachel and I know it won't be the last, I can't wait to see what will happen to Stephen and Chi. Alice loves spending time with her husband and guinea pigs. When she is not writing, she teaches French, reading and drawing. I love that this author has the proceeds from this book going to a great cause, anti-sexual violence association. This is a one sitting read that will leave you wanting more. This story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions that will leave you feeling what the heck and other times feeling the love of the characters. I highly recommend this story as I know you will find it to be a fast page turner like I did and you will lose yourself in this story.
March 10, 2017
Losing Ground is part of the Underground series. It is recommended that Losing Ground is read between Underground books 1 and 2. It is told from and explains the point of view of Stephen Richards, twin brother of Chi Richards who is a leader of the Underground rebellion.
Stephen Richards is the elder twin brother of Chi Richards. There has always been antagonism between Stephen and Chi. Chi has never really known or understood why, although he feels guilty because he thinks it’s due to his own birth. Stephen has always resented the way in which his mother protects, loves and cares for Chi whilst neglecting himself. Stephen meets and gradually over the years falls in love with a beautiful, gentle, innocent young girl called Willow. Willow loves Stephen in return. Nurturing a devastating secret: one which he can never disclose to anyone least of all Chi, Stephen only feels alive when he is with her, but they have to keep their relationship a secret. “She’s heavenly pure, and they can never find out about her or they will make me pay – a price so high I might break.” Will Stephen continue to hold on to his secret? Will he and Willow be able to develop their relationship?
Losing Ground answers many of the questions you have about Stephen when reading Underground Book 1. It is faster paced than Underground, and very easy to read. Stephen’s character is complex and his secret is well handled. The storyline is consistent and you just want to find out what happens between him, his parents, his brother and Willow to bring about the turn of events in book 1.
Stephen Richards is the elder twin brother of Chi Richards. There has always been antagonism between Stephen and Chi. Chi has never really known or understood why, although he feels guilty because he thinks it’s due to his own birth. Stephen has always resented the way in which his mother protects, loves and cares for Chi whilst neglecting himself. Stephen meets and gradually over the years falls in love with a beautiful, gentle, innocent young girl called Willow. Willow loves Stephen in return. Nurturing a devastating secret: one which he can never disclose to anyone least of all Chi, Stephen only feels alive when he is with her, but they have to keep their relationship a secret. “She’s heavenly pure, and they can never find out about her or they will make me pay – a price so high I might break.” Will Stephen continue to hold on to his secret? Will he and Willow be able to develop their relationship?
Losing Ground answers many of the questions you have about Stephen when reading Underground Book 1. It is faster paced than Underground, and very easy to read. Stephen’s character is complex and his secret is well handled. The storyline is consistent and you just want to find out what happens between him, his parents, his brother and Willow to bring about the turn of events in book 1.
March 13, 2017
Losing Ground (Under Ground 1.5) by Alice Rachel is the novella that follows Under Ground. It expands on what you read in Under Ground, and it somewhat of a prequel. It would not be enjoyable as a stand alone. It is the story of Stephen Richards, Chi's twin brother. I loved reading this, as it gave the back story to why Stephen is the way he is. During Under Ground, he is described as a jerk, evil even, always out to get their mother, and lashes out to everyone with rudeness. You spend the story hating him, and blaming him for the hardship and loss Chi has experienced. This story gives you the insight on his side of the story. It is hard to give too much detail, without any spoilers, but this story made me respect Stephen, instead of hating him. It mades perfect sense why he is the way he is. He isnt really a monster, trying to hurt Chi, but in fact, is just trying to protect him. He is the older brother and feels obligated to look after Chi and protect him from his parents and the truth.
I give the book a 5 star review, but there are some things I did not like. I wish the author gave us a time frame- so we knew how old the characters were, and how long the book spanned. It also jumped back and forth between time, and I had a hard time keeping track of what happened when. Stephen also repeated himself a lot, which I understand why, but it was still slightly redundant at times. All that aside, I cannot wait to read the next story in the series. I am thrilled to know there are going to be 11 parts to the story, with each character getting their own short story or novella.
I give the book a 5 star review, but there are some things I did not like. I wish the author gave us a time frame- so we knew how old the characters were, and how long the book spanned. It also jumped back and forth between time, and I had a hard time keeping track of what happened when. Stephen also repeated himself a lot, which I understand why, but it was still slightly redundant at times. All that aside, I cannot wait to read the next story in the series. I am thrilled to know there are going to be 11 parts to the story, with each character getting their own short story or novella.
May 18, 2017
Losing Ground by Alice Rachel is a majorly emotional read.
This book made me cry so hard. It made me cry, hate and love.
The main character comes across as a real mean character but over the course of time when you get to learn about his back story you will get to understand why he reacts like he does.
Even though this is a very well written book it will leave you with a load of questions. Sometimes you will feel completley thrown off course and may need to re read a few bits in order to stay on track.
I felt that for a novella there was an awful lot going on. This is my only critique for the author. I felt as though the author could maybe have expanded on this storyline over the course of a few novellas or even a novel. Too much seemed to be crammed into just one tiny little book.
At times it was difficult to read as it was so highly emotional. I felt really odd having felt emotional for a villian for once rather than the hero/heroine of the story. Definitely an interesting insight. Completley heart breaking story that will make you want to read the rest in the series in order to find out more. Believe me, you will not be disappointed that you did.
Definitely worth picking up for a read though. The characters were really compelling and will keep you interested till the end.
Would definitely recommend.
This book made me cry so hard. It made me cry, hate and love.
The main character comes across as a real mean character but over the course of time when you get to learn about his back story you will get to understand why he reacts like he does.
Even though this is a very well written book it will leave you with a load of questions. Sometimes you will feel completley thrown off course and may need to re read a few bits in order to stay on track.
I felt that for a novella there was an awful lot going on. This is my only critique for the author. I felt as though the author could maybe have expanded on this storyline over the course of a few novellas or even a novel. Too much seemed to be crammed into just one tiny little book.
At times it was difficult to read as it was so highly emotional. I felt really odd having felt emotional for a villian for once rather than the hero/heroine of the story. Definitely an interesting insight. Completley heart breaking story that will make you want to read the rest in the series in order to find out more. Believe me, you will not be disappointed that you did.
Definitely worth picking up for a read though. The characters were really compelling and will keep you interested till the end.
Would definitely recommend.
March 26, 2017
Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 (Under Ground #1.5) By Alice Rachel
5 out of 5 stars
HOLY COW!!!!!Ms. Rachel has totally blown my mind…. I can’t get enough of this series even though I have to go back and read some of the other stories that go with the Underground series. Ms. Rachel has a unique way of telling her stories with remarkable main characters and great secondary characters.
The truth about our family would probably destroy my brother.
We met Stephen Chi’s older twin brother in Underground and I had an instant dislike for him I thought he was just a pathetic bully. I just have to say you should never judge a book by its cover as they say.
We meet Willow Stephen's love interest and she is not only the focus of this story, but the focus of Stephen's life. He is deeply in love with her, but as she is an unwanted child with no life/papers, they cannot be together.
Stephen’s life is no picnic but he makes sure but he makes sure Chi never finds out what our parents truly are monsters hiding in broad daylight. Stephen wants to protect Chi so bad that sometimes he hates Chi who Stephen thinks is far naive, too gentle and far too weak to carry the weight of this reality.
This was an emotional read that had me in tears for Stephen and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Rachel has instore for us next.
By
Tracy Manderson
5 out of 5 stars
HOLY COW!!!!!Ms. Rachel has totally blown my mind…. I can’t get enough of this series even though I have to go back and read some of the other stories that go with the Underground series. Ms. Rachel has a unique way of telling her stories with remarkable main characters and great secondary characters.
The truth about our family would probably destroy my brother.
We met Stephen Chi’s older twin brother in Underground and I had an instant dislike for him I thought he was just a pathetic bully. I just have to say you should never judge a book by its cover as they say.
We meet Willow Stephen's love interest and she is not only the focus of this story, but the focus of Stephen's life. He is deeply in love with her, but as she is an unwanted child with no life/papers, they cannot be together.
Stephen’s life is no picnic but he makes sure but he makes sure Chi never finds out what our parents truly are monsters hiding in broad daylight. Stephen wants to protect Chi so bad that sometimes he hates Chi who Stephen thinks is far naive, too gentle and far too weak to carry the weight of this reality.
This was an emotional read that had me in tears for Stephen and I can’t wait to see what Ms. Rachel has instore for us next.
By
Tracy Manderson
March 22, 2017
Losing Ground by Alice Rachel tells the story of Stephen Richards, the twin brother of Chi Richards who we met in Under Ground.
People of the Richards’ status were only allowed to have one child. When Stephen’s mom found out she was having twins, she decided not to abort her pregnancy which was advised by the government. For that reason, she had to hide one of her child because he was considered an Unwanted.
Stephen was first so he was the one who was able to go outside of the home and even attend school. Chi had to spend his life in fear. He couldn’t be discovered or his whole life would change.
Stephen also lived in fear. He carried around a deep secret, causing him to hate his parents. He thought that they loved his brother more than him. He hated sharing his clothes and food with his brother. He just lived with a lot of anger that was building inside, making him bitter even as a child.
The only time Stephen was happy was when he was with Willow, a girl who lived close by. They became friends and she brought joy into his life.
Losing Ground by Alice Rachel is a novelette that helps readers to explain a little more about Chi’s brother and why he joined the other side as an adult. It is a good link to the first story and the rest, I am sure.
People of the Richards’ status were only allowed to have one child. When Stephen’s mom found out she was having twins, she decided not to abort her pregnancy which was advised by the government. For that reason, she had to hide one of her child because he was considered an Unwanted.
Stephen was first so he was the one who was able to go outside of the home and even attend school. Chi had to spend his life in fear. He couldn’t be discovered or his whole life would change.
Stephen also lived in fear. He carried around a deep secret, causing him to hate his parents. He thought that they loved his brother more than him. He hated sharing his clothes and food with his brother. He just lived with a lot of anger that was building inside, making him bitter even as a child.
The only time Stephen was happy was when he was with Willow, a girl who lived close by. They became friends and she brought joy into his life.
Losing Ground by Alice Rachel is a novelette that helps readers to explain a little more about Chi’s brother and why he joined the other side as an adult. It is a good link to the first story and the rest, I am sure.
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