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When They Came #1
When They Came
I was never afraid of monsters—at least, not until They came: the visitors from outer space.
Now They're in our skies, on our streets, always watching, forever waiting.
At seventeen, I'm just about to graduate from the Juvenile Education System and declare my career of choice. The Midnight Guard—who protect our community from the vicious things that lie outside our walls—calls to me.
It’s hard, dangerous work, with grueling hours that offer little sleep, but it’s the one thing I know will help make a difference in
our ever-changing world.
Now They're in our skies, on our streets, always watching, forever waiting.
At seventeen, I'm just about to graduate from the Juvenile Education System and declare my career of choice. The Midnight Guard—who protect our community from the vicious things that lie outside our walls—calls to me.
It’s hard, dangerous work, with grueling hours that offer little sleep, but it’s the one thing I know will help make a difference in
our ever-changing world.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2017
338 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
About the author
Kody Boye
126 books273 followersBorn and raised in Southeastern Idaho, Kody Boye began his writing career at fourteen with the publication of his story [A] Prom Queen’s Revenge in the Yellow Mama Webzine.
After being published nearly three-dozen times in various markets, he went independent at eighteen and currently writes horror and dark fantasy fiction.
He is the author of the young-adult science-fiction series When They Came, The Beautiful Ones trilogy, and other novels.
He currently lives and writes in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas.
After being published nearly three-dozen times in various markets, he went independent at eighteen and currently writes horror and dark fantasy fiction.
He is the author of the young-adult science-fiction series When They Came, The Beautiful Ones trilogy, and other novels.
He currently lives and writes in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
June 20, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️STARS
REVIEW COPY
Release Date-3/4/2017
When They Came (When They Came #1) by Kody Boye was a really enjoyable read. An incredibly fast-paced YA Sci-Fi/Dystopian novel that kept me interested from start to finish.
The first book in a series; this set the stage brilliantly, drawing me into this imaginative future dystopian landscape and hooking my interest instantly.
The world building here was fantastic and easily comprehended.
"When they Come" starts off in the fictional stronghold of Fort Hope; here Ana Mia after graduating the juvenile education system decides to join her sister on the wall as part of the Midnight Guard.
This guard protects the inhabitants of the stronghold by watching the night and holding the line; guarding the population against Earths alien invaders and there lackies the Coyotes.
(sounds almost Game Of Thrones-like)
The Aliens are harvesting the populace from there ships and the Coyotes seem to be the eyes and ears of these invaders.
These coyotes, by and large, seem dumb simple but vicious creatures and I'm not really sure yet what the deal is with them.
I mean where are they from? what are there Intentions? and why are they assisting the harvesters?
In fact who even are the Harvesters and what is there ultimate goal here?
And for that fact what happens to the inhabitants they have beamed up to there vessel?
See; so many valid questions here.
So there's a lot going on and as you can see from my above waffling so many questions I still want answers to.
the author also manages to do such an excellent job of dialling the tension up notch by gradual notch; its done so subtlely that before I knew it I were smack bang on a rollercoaster to god knows where.
There's so many twists and turns aplenty and the whole story had a biting your nails constantly vibe to it; I was so on edge throughout.
I also really liked how past events were conveyed here from invasion day; told in a series of flashbacks; I found this such a nice touch, It gave "When They Came" such a personal feel to it; which I very much appreciated.
my only annoyance here with this; was how fast the author seemed to knock off individuals I had become emotionally invested in.
No sooner had I forged a connection then pop they were gone; which is all fine and dandy but I didn't think enough closure was offered up to truly appreciate the contribution these characters brought.
I know post-apocalyptic Alien invaded landscape; not actually conducive to mourning and wallowing but I'm talking more about an internal monologue here.
A sort of reflective remembrance as I do feel that maybe Ana Mia would be much more traumatised and affected by her losses than she seemed to portray.
There was only one scene where she major broke down then she seemed to pull herself together so swiftly I was slightly sceptical.
I also wasn't a mega fan of using Ana's whole name in conversation; it just felt weird and slightly pretentious if I'm being honest here.
So That's my main reasons for the one-star deduction.
So despite my above points and some slight cliche one-liners, this was a fantastic YA read.
It will be fascinating to see where this will go next after that cliffhanger of an ending.
Thankfully the next instalment in this enthralling series is already available.
Thank You to the Author for providing me with an ARC copy of "When They Came (When They Came #1)" of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
April 17, 2020
3.75 slightly scared STARS ★★★✬✩
⤐ Preface.
This finishing + reviewing immediately should be a thing, it's so efficient!
⤐ Overall.
The audiobook of When They Came drew me in from the minute it started. I really enjoyed this dystopian universe. It was creative and a bit creepier than your average end of the world scenario. I wouldn't say I'm a fan of the alien narrative per see, but if you're not even remotely attracted to the idea of extraterrestrial life, then I don't know what to tell you. I mean, it's creepy, smiling coyotes that are apparently walking upright. What the heck do you want?
I'm also enamoured with the potential romance I’ve sniffed out during the last half of this book, even though I’m not sure whether that’s just wishful thinking. I like that it's apparently hinted at, but not too central to the development. Instead, time is used to paint the picture of what this world looks like after the invasion, how humans devolved (is that even a word?) and what survival means now that the night is owned by the monsters.
One thing that really turned me off, so to speak, was the fact that people left and righT seemed very eager to sacrifice themselves for our heroine, even though it's not even apparent whether she's worth it. In turn, all Ana Mia appears to do is flee from danger while people die in her stead. Which again questions ... you know, whether she's worth it. I'm also a bit unsatisfied with the way her trauma it depicted. It's pretty decent in some aspects, in others, however - - not so much.
⤐ What’s happening.
What would you do if the world as you knew it had ended 6 years ago, invaded by a superior alien species with the appearance of giant coyotes? Humanity is now constantly on the lookout for itself, locked away in insular forts that need protection from the beasts that come at night. Ana Mia, determined to join the midnight guard - the soldiers who, come nightfall, watch into nothingness, waiting for the devious siles of the coyotes to appear against the black of night -, aches to do her part in the survival of the human species. On her first big scouting trip outside the walls of her fort she gets bitten by one of the beasts, though, and everything changes.
_____________________
writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 4*
plot/story in general = 5*
plot development = 4*
characters = 3*
enjoyability = 4*
insightfulness = 4*
_____________________
Many thanks to the narrator Kris Janae and the author Kody Boye, who provided me with this physical copy / audiobook / eArc in exchange for an honest review.
This book might be for you… Do you ache to dive into a light dystopia that features more than your average apocalyptic scenario? Search no longer and be ready to freak out at the thought of eerily smiling human-like coyotes hunting your dreams.
⤐ Preface.
This finishing + reviewing immediately should be a thing, it's so efficient!
⤐ Overall.
The audiobook of When They Came drew me in from the minute it started. I really enjoyed this dystopian universe. It was creative and a bit creepier than your average end of the world scenario. I wouldn't say I'm a fan of the alien narrative per see, but if you're not even remotely attracted to the idea of extraterrestrial life, then I don't know what to tell you. I mean, it's creepy, smiling coyotes that are apparently walking upright. What the heck do you want?
I'm also enamoured with the potential romance I’ve sniffed out during the last half of this book, even though I’m not sure whether that’s just wishful thinking. I like that it's apparently hinted at, but not too central to the development. Instead, time is used to paint the picture of what this world looks like after the invasion, how humans devolved (is that even a word?) and what survival means now that the night is owned by the monsters.
One thing that really turned me off, so to speak, was the fact that people left and righT seemed very eager to sacrifice themselves for our heroine, even though it's not even apparent whether she's worth it. In turn, all Ana Mia appears to do is flee from danger while people die in her stead. Which again questions ... you know, whether she's worth it. I'm also a bit unsatisfied with the way her trauma it depicted. It's pretty decent in some aspects, in others, however - - not so much.
⤐ What’s happening.
What would you do if the world as you knew it had ended 6 years ago, invaded by a superior alien species with the appearance of giant coyotes? Humanity is now constantly on the lookout for itself, locked away in insular forts that need protection from the beasts that come at night. Ana Mia, determined to join the midnight guard - the soldiers who, come nightfall, watch into nothingness, waiting for the devious siles of the coyotes to appear against the black of night -, aches to do her part in the survival of the human species. On her first big scouting trip outside the walls of her fort she gets bitten by one of the beasts, though, and everything changes.
_____________________
writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 4*
plot/story in general = 5*
plot development = 4*
characters = 3*
enjoyability = 4*
insightfulness = 4*
_____________________
Many thanks to the narrator Kris Janae and the author Kody Boye, who provided me with this physical copy / audiobook / eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
May 2, 2018Do you like alien invasion/dystopian YA? You can request a review copy of this one here: [closed - other review opportunities found here]
November 15, 2020
A well-written and exciting dystopian tale !
It has an open ending, leaving you desperate to continue with ‘When they saw’
It has an open ending, leaving you desperate to continue with ‘When they saw’
July 6, 2017
3 1/2 - review to come
July 4, 2017
I really liked the setup to this story. As the book starts, it draws you in like some of the best YA fiction can. The main character, Ana Mia, is caught in this post-apocalyptic world where aliens have harvested humans, and now civilization is reduced to small pockets in forts and cities. Because of the mix of YA and Texas post-apocalypse, When They Came sits in this perfect nook between Hunger Games and Justin Cronin. This made for an unexpected, fascinating read. It is to the author's credit that the story can sit here without straying too far into the cliches of teen literature or post-apocalyptic fiction. The book becomes something more evolved. Kody Boye clearly has an ear for his audience and knows what they want out of a book. He delivers.
What I really liked about this book, though, and what a lot of reviewers are picking up on, is the intense and gripping journey of When They Came. This book is easily one of the more intense books I've read in a long while. Kody Boye clearly is an expert in timing and ratcheting up the intensity. A perfectly good example is the early flashback to Ana Mia's first encounter with the aliens. The family is holed up in their house while the father goes out to lead the aliens away, yet Ana Mia remembers watching the front doorknob twist and turn as the aliens try to enter the house. The imagery Kody Boye is able to conjure up sticks with you. This is only the first of many intense scenes. I really do believe that the deeper into the book you read, the more intense the story becomes.
This is Book 1. Book 2 cannot get here soon enough.
What I really liked about this book, though, and what a lot of reviewers are picking up on, is the intense and gripping journey of When They Came. This book is easily one of the more intense books I've read in a long while. Kody Boye clearly is an expert in timing and ratcheting up the intensity. A perfectly good example is the early flashback to Ana Mia's first encounter with the aliens. The family is holed up in their house while the father goes out to lead the aliens away, yet Ana Mia remembers watching the front doorknob twist and turn as the aliens try to enter the house. The imagery Kody Boye is able to conjure up sticks with you. This is only the first of many intense scenes. I really do believe that the deeper into the book you read, the more intense the story becomes.
This is Book 1. Book 2 cannot get here soon enough.
May 7, 2023
I’m glad I found this book and this author.
A good story, different from anything I’ve read. The story is what held me and why I will continue with this series. I can see it as if it were a movie.
A good story, different from anything I’ve read. The story is what held me and why I will continue with this series. I can see it as if it were a movie.
April 19, 2017
Holy crap! I loved this so much in all of its insanely creepy glory.
"Found the girl."
I need the sequel sooner rather than later.
"Found the girl."
I need the sequel sooner rather than later.
May 1, 2017
Would you sit on a wall all night, in complete silence, guarding your community from a aliens who are controlled by other aliens? And all the while you are on the wall, guarding your life and those you love, you must observe complete silence and keep your gun at the ready. What if those same aliens "harvested" your father and friends? Damn, I don't know if I could.
I enjoyed this book. The idea of aliens harvesting humans may not be new but the way this author presents this story is fresh and alive. This book takes a much more personal look at the people with intelligent and emotional interactions. You, as the reader, will feel those emotions.
There are plenty of twists in this story which will keep you flipping the pages. I look forward to the next book in this series.
And you are right: no spoilers. Read this book and enjoy the adventure.
I enjoyed this book. The idea of aliens harvesting humans may not be new but the way this author presents this story is fresh and alive. This book takes a much more personal look at the people with intelligent and emotional interactions. You, as the reader, will feel those emotions.
There are plenty of twists in this story which will keep you flipping the pages. I look forward to the next book in this series.
And you are right: no spoilers. Read this book and enjoy the adventure.
July 18, 2021
While I really enjoyed the idea of this book it was not written fantastical. I want to give it 2.5 stars because 2 feels too low and 3 feel too high.
I like the concept and I was engaged in the book, I found it hard to put down which is a good sign. I also loved the huge cliffhanger it ended on. However, the use of repetition on this book was ridiculous. It felt like a student trying to meet the word count of their essay. The habit of saying something three different ways was constant and unnecessary. It’s not like it was using the rule of three to describe a number of factors that makeup the overall situation or emotion, it was making three statements in a row giving the exact same information.
I like the concept and I was engaged in the book, I found it hard to put down which is a good sign. I also loved the huge cliffhanger it ended on. However, the use of repetition on this book was ridiculous. It felt like a student trying to meet the word count of their essay. The habit of saying something three different ways was constant and unnecessary. It’s not like it was using the rule of three to describe a number of factors that makeup the overall situation or emotion, it was making three statements in a row giving the exact same information.
November 6, 2018
The story was ok. The author capitalized the word "They" when describing the coyotes.
It made me pause in the middle of the sentences every time. Irritating and not very good for a smooth flowing story. If you don't like a series that leaves you hanging after the first book, this is not for you.
Although I would like to know what happens next, I don't plan to read the next one.
It made me pause in the middle of the sentences every time. Irritating and not very good for a smooth flowing story. If you don't like a series that leaves you hanging after the first book, this is not for you.
Although I would like to know what happens next, I don't plan to read the next one.
August 22, 2018
Avoid if you don't like cliffhangers
I enjoyed the book and had trouble putting it down until the non-ending. I hate cliffhangers and avoid them if I am aware that they are. It's a good story and well written so if cliffhangers don't bother you then I recommend it.
I enjoyed the book and had trouble putting it down until the non-ending. I hate cliffhangers and avoid them if I am aware that they are. It's a good story and well written so if cliffhangers don't bother you then I recommend it.
September 22, 2022
The premise was wonderful and exciting. But the telling of the story was drab and boring. The characters were lifeless and most of the book was “this happened and then that happened and then I did this and felt that.” It was dreary beyond measure. I’m so glad it was free.
August 22, 2022
Have aliens really visited the Earth? Kody Boye tells us a story that when they came, they wreaked havoc everywhere.
The Juvenile Education System is about to end, and students are soon to join the adult workforce. Their teacher reminds them about the dangers outside Fort Hope. Mr. He specifically recalls the incident that happened six years ago when the aliens arrived on Earth. The extraterrestrial beings sowed unspeakable terror and created enormous damage to humanity during that period.
Ana Mia Sofia Berrios is one of the graduating students in the Juvenile Education System. At this point, she needs to decide on a career path. After some thought, she makes up her mind to work as a Midnight Guard. This is not an easy thing to do because of her family’s experience with the aliens. Her father was beamed up to an alien’s ship, leaving her mother, sister, and her to fend for themselves.
With much difficulty, Ana tells her mother about her intention to join the Midnight Guard. Her mother is initially against it because of the danger that the job entails. Ana’s sister, Xiomara, is already a guard, and this makes the older woman worried. She fears losing her daughters to the extraterrestrials.
Follow Ana’s experience as a Midnight Guard and how she manages the challenges posed by the aliens. Would you want to sit with Ana on a wall all night even just for once? In this installment of the When They Came series, you also get to meet the then 11-year-old Jason Parks, one of the first survivors of the alien attack on September 17, 2024.
The Book and the Author
Written by Kody Boye, When They Came is a Young Adult/dystopian piece of work. Set in 2030 in Texas, the USA, the book is a fast-paced and thrilling read. The author takes the reader on a wild ride through nights of uncertainty. Kody Boye’s vivid description of the scenes virtually brings them right where the action takes place.
When They Came is a well-written and well-proofread book, and I appreciate this writing style. It’s also open-ended, leaving the reader wondering what could happen to the lead character. Although Boye closes this installment without loose ends, he leaves the reader wanting for the next volume.
I give When They Came a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and I recommend this book to readers 13 years old and above.
NOTE: The above review is also posted in The Catalyst.
The Juvenile Education System is about to end, and students are soon to join the adult workforce. Their teacher reminds them about the dangers outside Fort Hope. Mr. He specifically recalls the incident that happened six years ago when the aliens arrived on Earth. The extraterrestrial beings sowed unspeakable terror and created enormous damage to humanity during that period.
Ana Mia Sofia Berrios is one of the graduating students in the Juvenile Education System. At this point, she needs to decide on a career path. After some thought, she makes up her mind to work as a Midnight Guard. This is not an easy thing to do because of her family’s experience with the aliens. Her father was beamed up to an alien’s ship, leaving her mother, sister, and her to fend for themselves.
With much difficulty, Ana tells her mother about her intention to join the Midnight Guard. Her mother is initially against it because of the danger that the job entails. Ana’s sister, Xiomara, is already a guard, and this makes the older woman worried. She fears losing her daughters to the extraterrestrials.
Follow Ana’s experience as a Midnight Guard and how she manages the challenges posed by the aliens. Would you want to sit with Ana on a wall all night even just for once? In this installment of the When They Came series, you also get to meet the then 11-year-old Jason Parks, one of the first survivors of the alien attack on September 17, 2024.
The Book and the Author
Written by Kody Boye, When They Came is a Young Adult/dystopian piece of work. Set in 2030 in Texas, the USA, the book is a fast-paced and thrilling read. The author takes the reader on a wild ride through nights of uncertainty. Kody Boye’s vivid description of the scenes virtually brings them right where the action takes place.
When They Came is a well-written and well-proofread book, and I appreciate this writing style. It’s also open-ended, leaving the reader wondering what could happen to the lead character. Although Boye closes this installment without loose ends, he leaves the reader wanting for the next volume.
I give When They Came a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and I recommend this book to readers 13 years old and above.
NOTE: The above review is also posted in The Catalyst.
June 21, 2020
Title: When They Came
Author: Kody Boye
Publisher: Kody Boye
ISBN: B06Y1SS5MX
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
When They Came 1
I was never afraid of monsters—at least, not until They came: the visitors from outer space.
Now They're in our skies, on our streets, always watching, forever waiting.
At seventeen, I'm just about to graduate from the Juvenile Education System and declare my career of choice. The Midnight Guard—who protect our community from the vicious things that lie outside our walls—calls to me.
It’s hard, dangerous work, with grueling hours that offer little sleep, but it’s the one thing I know will help make a difference in
our ever-changing world.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
This is one possibility of what could happen in an alien invasion.
The horror that Anna Mia and all of the survivors lived through was evident in their struggle to survive. From living through her father being harvested on the first day of the invasion, Anna Mia never gave up her drive to live and protect everyone around her. On the last day of her education Anna Mia chose the most difficult work, to become a member of the Midnight Guard to protect her community. This choice, not good or bad, sets off a chain of events that could change everything for humanity. What the aliens wanted and why they harvested humans are questions that are left unresolved.
This was a fast paced and riveting audiobook and I for one can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Author: Kody Boye
Publisher: Kody Boye
ISBN: B06Y1SS5MX
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
When They Came 1
I was never afraid of monsters—at least, not until They came: the visitors from outer space.
Now They're in our skies, on our streets, always watching, forever waiting.
At seventeen, I'm just about to graduate from the Juvenile Education System and declare my career of choice. The Midnight Guard—who protect our community from the vicious things that lie outside our walls—calls to me.
It’s hard, dangerous work, with grueling hours that offer little sleep, but it’s the one thing I know will help make a difference in
our ever-changing world.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
This is one possibility of what could happen in an alien invasion.
The horror that Anna Mia and all of the survivors lived through was evident in their struggle to survive. From living through her father being harvested on the first day of the invasion, Anna Mia never gave up her drive to live and protect everyone around her. On the last day of her education Anna Mia chose the most difficult work, to become a member of the Midnight Guard to protect her community. This choice, not good or bad, sets off a chain of events that could change everything for humanity. What the aliens wanted and why they harvested humans are questions that are left unresolved.
This was a fast paced and riveting audiobook and I for one can’t wait to find out what happens next.
September 16, 2017
When They Came is a clean dystopian, young adult novel set in the future after aliens have invaded Earth. The main character, Ana Maria Sofia Barrios, chooses to join The Midnight Guard like her older sister so she can help protect her community.
The book doesn't have any sex or swearing in it, so it's fine for teens of all ages. If a character swears it's written as "I swore from the pain." or something instead of actual swear words. Ana and her family are very close, which I liked. Her sister is nice and accepting and seems like a positive role model for her. In this world, she definitely needs that. The trope of everyone wanting something in the apocalypse is used in this book, but I think that really would happen in an apocalypse.
The action and the aliens are well described and the pacing is good. While most of the descriptions are really good, like when they're going to houses or wherever, some fell flat. In the scene where they go outside the walls for the first time, they break into one of the houses and break glass and it's described as "breaking like teardrops." It was weird to me. My main issues with the book were that Ana is called by her whole name (or variations of it) all the time and
Overall it was an alright book, but it frustrated me at times.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The book doesn't have any sex or swearing in it, so it's fine for teens of all ages. If a character swears it's written as "I swore from the pain." or something instead of actual swear words. Ana and her family are very close, which I liked. Her sister is nice and accepting and seems like a positive role model for her. In this world, she definitely needs that. The trope of everyone wanting something in the apocalypse is used in this book, but I think that really would happen in an apocalypse.
The action and the aliens are well described and the pacing is good. While most of the descriptions are really good, like when they're going to houses or wherever, some fell flat. In the scene where they go outside the walls for the first time, they break into one of the houses and break glass and it's described as "breaking like teardrops." It was weird to me. My main issues with the book were that Ana is called by her whole name (or variations of it) all the time and
Overall it was an alright book, but it frustrated me at times.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 9, 2018
*I received this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
I love sci-fi, when it is done well. When They Came impressed me, and I found myself wishing I had the second book so I could continue in the story.
The world building is strong. I love the idea of Fort Hope. An apartment complex that has been walled up, and protected by the Midnight Guard. I also enjoyed the fact that the teens who had come of age had a choice in whether they wanted to serve on the Guard or chose a non-combat service. I think that choice made the situation that much stronger- humanity wasn’t all lost.
Ana Mia is a great character. I love how level headed she can be, but she’s also a young, and scared. She’s a compelling lead, because she’s very relatable. She reacts to situations realistically- she is not a super hero, but she is brave when she needs to be.
Kody Boye’s writing is great. Dialogue feels real and fluid. It’s important, in my opinion, that people speak normally in books, and the characters in When They Came are relatable and realistic. There also aren’t any overly descriptive paragraphs. We get just enough detail to be able to envision the surroundings, and it drives the plot forward.
I love everything about this book. The compelling characters, action packed scenes, and incredible world building, make this a must read for anyone who likes sci-fi/dystopian/horror.
Blog Tour: https://jessicarachow.wordpress.com/2...
I love sci-fi, when it is done well. When They Came impressed me, and I found myself wishing I had the second book so I could continue in the story.
The world building is strong. I love the idea of Fort Hope. An apartment complex that has been walled up, and protected by the Midnight Guard. I also enjoyed the fact that the teens who had come of age had a choice in whether they wanted to serve on the Guard or chose a non-combat service. I think that choice made the situation that much stronger- humanity wasn’t all lost.
Ana Mia is a great character. I love how level headed she can be, but she’s also a young, and scared. She’s a compelling lead, because she’s very relatable. She reacts to situations realistically- she is not a super hero, but she is brave when she needs to be.
Kody Boye’s writing is great. Dialogue feels real and fluid. It’s important, in my opinion, that people speak normally in books, and the characters in When They Came are relatable and realistic. There also aren’t any overly descriptive paragraphs. We get just enough detail to be able to envision the surroundings, and it drives the plot forward.
I love everything about this book. The compelling characters, action packed scenes, and incredible world building, make this a must read for anyone who likes sci-fi/dystopian/horror.
Blog Tour: https://jessicarachow.wordpress.com/2...
July 12, 2018
I'm a pushover for science fiction of the alien invasion variety and I have equal fondness for the truly serious kind and high camp. When They Came falls somewhere in the middle and has both attractive elements as well as some that made me lift an eyebrow.
Ana Mia appealed to me quite a lot, as did her sister and mother, and I empathized with Ana's desire to do something honorable with her life while being pretty unsure of herself. That lack of confidence rang true for a teenager but especially for one whose mere existence is a daily test. Jason and Asha also were believable characters and a real positive of the story was how much diversity there is.
There were several things that didn't quite mesh for me. For one thing, I can't imagine a military leader taking raw recruits---and I do mean raw---out on a mission that's extremely dangerous and, in fact, ends badly. Also, that particular event occurred much too soon, before I had a chance to really get to know either the characters or the dire circumstances of their lives and, as a result, I was sympathetic towards Ana but didn't care as much as I could have. Dialogue also left me underwhelmed at times.
On the whole, though, this story of humans versus aliens is based on an interesting concept and the author creates believable tension throughout with plenty of action and fear-inducing atmosphere. While I'm not entirely satisfied with this first book in the trilogy, that doesn't prevent me from wanting to go on to the next book.
Ana Mia appealed to me quite a lot, as did her sister and mother, and I empathized with Ana's desire to do something honorable with her life while being pretty unsure of herself. That lack of confidence rang true for a teenager but especially for one whose mere existence is a daily test. Jason and Asha also were believable characters and a real positive of the story was how much diversity there is.
There were several things that didn't quite mesh for me. For one thing, I can't imagine a military leader taking raw recruits---and I do mean raw---out on a mission that's extremely dangerous and, in fact, ends badly. Also, that particular event occurred much too soon, before I had a chance to really get to know either the characters or the dire circumstances of their lives and, as a result, I was sympathetic towards Ana but didn't care as much as I could have. Dialogue also left me underwhelmed at times.
On the whole, though, this story of humans versus aliens is based on an interesting concept and the author creates believable tension throughout with plenty of action and fear-inducing atmosphere. While I'm not entirely satisfied with this first book in the trilogy, that doesn't prevent me from wanting to go on to the next book.
December 14, 2017
I love the post-apocalypse genre and the places it takes me. When They Came imagines the world post-alien invasion, reminiscent of the TV show Falling Skies. Ana Mia’s life within Fort Hope reminded me of Divergent with the people segregated by their chosen occupations. And just like Tris, Ana Mia turns her back on her mother’s occupation in the kitchens at the fort to join the very Dauntless-like Midnight Guard. Dressed in Dauntless black and kitted out with the same amount of weaponry, she takes up the position of protector of her community. But the story does strike its own original path as the aliens overrun Fort Hope and force Ana Mia out of the structured society. From there, the book takes quite a few twists and turns along its path, leaving me guessing where it might go next with plenty of alien threat looming in the background. There are lesbian leanings in the later half of the book, but it doesn’t make the book feel like it’s trying to be edgy, but just a natural progression of the character and trying to attach to the few things that haven’t been taken from her. The book does end on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see where the next book will take us.
March 22, 2021
This book surprised me. That does not happen too often. I saw this was rather a YA book, but gave it a chance anyway, and I am so happy I did! The characters are well-filled out and one empathizes with them. The story moved along well. There were things that happened I wasn't expecting. the story is well written. My caveat is that the author uses the word "further" incorrectly. Maybe I am being old-fashioned, but don't mix up "farther" and "further, please, unless you are British where there has never been a discrepancy between the two words. I only found two editing errors, so well done editor.
Ana Mia, the main protagonist, is one of my favourite characters so far this year in all of my reading. She is smart, she screws up, she finds strength when things go badly, and she is a rather great friend to have. The alien contact theme is truly original. The Coyotes as some dog-like creatures are called are intriguing. I loved this book! If you like distopian, sci-fi, first contact type of books, this is one for you. I have already bought the second book in the series, and it has kept me up way past my bedritme.
Ana Mia, the main protagonist, is one of my favourite characters so far this year in all of my reading. She is smart, she screws up, she finds strength when things go badly, and she is a rather great friend to have. The alien contact theme is truly original. The Coyotes as some dog-like creatures are called are intriguing. I loved this book! If you like distopian, sci-fi, first contact type of books, this is one for you. I have already bought the second book in the series, and it has kept me up way past my bedritme.
June 18, 2023
An exciting sci-fi tale. It's definitely written for a YA market, but I think it could appeal to readers of any age.
This is a great concept. The reader is thrown into a dystopian landscape after a race of aliens has invaded earth. Is it just one race? That's one of the questions I'd like to have answered, because I can't decide if the Coyotes are a separate race, or pets, of the main invading alien race. I wonder if that will be answered throughout the series.
Readers will get a kick out of the action and the young heroes in this story. There's plenty of conflict and struggles to overcome. There's plenty of danger. And you can feel the fear through what Ana Mia sees, which is essential is a story like this. What's the point of hostile aliens if people are not afraid?
The story does end on a cliff-hanger, which can be seen as a cheap shot at the reader, but plenty of stories use this as a way to keep the reader invested. It's not a bad thing, especially if you already know the book is part of a series. And the cliff-hanger hit all its marks! I hope the next book gives amazing insights into the aliens.
This is a great concept. The reader is thrown into a dystopian landscape after a race of aliens has invaded earth. Is it just one race? That's one of the questions I'd like to have answered, because I can't decide if the Coyotes are a separate race, or pets, of the main invading alien race. I wonder if that will be answered throughout the series.
Readers will get a kick out of the action and the young heroes in this story. There's plenty of conflict and struggles to overcome. There's plenty of danger. And you can feel the fear through what Ana Mia sees, which is essential is a story like this. What's the point of hostile aliens if people are not afraid?
The story does end on a cliff-hanger, which can be seen as a cheap shot at the reader, but plenty of stories use this as a way to keep the reader invested. It's not a bad thing, especially if you already know the book is part of a series. And the cliff-hanger hit all its marks! I hope the next book gives amazing insights into the aliens.
May 24, 2018
It has been six years since the aliens invaded Earth and started harvesting people and taking them up to their ship to do who knows what to them. Ana Mia’s father was taken on the first night They came. Ana Mia is luckier than most as she is not alone she still has her mother and sister, Xiomara where most do not.
Ana Mia is graduating and wants to join The Midnight Guard like her sister to stand guard on the wall to keep the aliens from coming inside the walls of Fort Hope.
When the wall is breached and the aliens make it inside and attack their city Ana Mia and her friends Jason and Asha find themselves on the run from the aliens.
I love alien movies and post-apocalyptic worlds. When They Came reminds me of that tv show Falling Skies. I love the world that was created in When They Came with the aliens attacking and Ana Mia and her friends always having to look over their shoulders hoping to see the aliens before they saw them so they would not be harvested like others.
When They Came is a very intense read that will keeping you on the edge of your seat looking for aliens around every turn. Rooting for Ana Mia every time she saw the aliens hoping They wouldn’t catch her.
I loved the ending and can’t wait to see what Ana Mia has in store for us in the next book When They Saw. Even though I loved that ending part of me was expecting it but another part of me kept thinking that it would go in another direction.
I would recommend When They Came to fans of aliens, post-apocalyptic and even science fiction.
Ana Mia is graduating and wants to join The Midnight Guard like her sister to stand guard on the wall to keep the aliens from coming inside the walls of Fort Hope.
When the wall is breached and the aliens make it inside and attack their city Ana Mia and her friends Jason and Asha find themselves on the run from the aliens.
I love alien movies and post-apocalyptic worlds. When They Came reminds me of that tv show Falling Skies. I love the world that was created in When They Came with the aliens attacking and Ana Mia and her friends always having to look over their shoulders hoping to see the aliens before they saw them so they would not be harvested like others.
When They Came is a very intense read that will keeping you on the edge of your seat looking for aliens around every turn. Rooting for Ana Mia every time she saw the aliens hoping They wouldn’t catch her.
I loved the ending and can’t wait to see what Ana Mia has in store for us in the next book When They Saw. Even though I loved that ending part of me was expecting it but another part of me kept thinking that it would go in another direction.
I would recommend When They Came to fans of aliens, post-apocalyptic and even science fiction.
June 25, 2018
Received from Xpresso Book Tours
Dystopia is one of my favourite genre all across, so I had very high expectation going into the book. For me to fully enjoyed the story, it has to have certain element of realness to it, that *it-could-really-happen* vibe. And When They Came certainly has that.
Few years ago They came. But They didn’t come peacefully. It’s was more like the worse nightmare coming true. First they sent creatures similar to coyotes, that look around for people and then harvesters come, with ships.
People have resorted to live in small compounds, one of those is Fort Hope. When kids reach age of 17, the have to pick a job. Ana Mia pick to be Night Guard, protecting compound from Coyotes. One her first mission outside of the compound, she gets bitten. She luckily survives, but she starts to change.
It’s thrilling story, with very interesting story line. On the other side I didn’t like any of the dialog, they were too repetitive and the pace was a bit off. I wish there was more world building.
Dystopia is one of my favourite genre all across, so I had very high expectation going into the book. For me to fully enjoyed the story, it has to have certain element of realness to it, that *it-could-really-happen* vibe. And When They Came certainly has that.
Few years ago They came. But They didn’t come peacefully. It’s was more like the worse nightmare coming true. First they sent creatures similar to coyotes, that look around for people and then harvesters come, with ships.
People have resorted to live in small compounds, one of those is Fort Hope. When kids reach age of 17, the have to pick a job. Ana Mia pick to be Night Guard, protecting compound from Coyotes. One her first mission outside of the compound, she gets bitten. She luckily survives, but she starts to change.
It’s thrilling story, with very interesting story line. On the other side I didn’t like any of the dialog, they were too repetitive and the pace was a bit off. I wish there was more world building.
May 27, 2020
This is an interesting alien invasion story. Kody Boye put his own spin on the story focusing more on the characters than the aliens. In this way, the first book in the series is about humanity and how we adapt.
The narrator did a good job telling the story. She was animated as needed as needed and somber when it was required. Krys Janae truly brought Ana Mia to life.
I enjoyed the story created. Boye wrestles with the ideas of what we do as a family and what we do as a county, a world, Ana Mia is split between them both when she joins the Midnight Guard. Her life becomes even more complicated when she is attacked by one of the coyotes, one of the extraterrestrials that have overrun the world.
The end sets up for an exciting second book that expands on the aliens and I can’t wait to listen to it.
I received a free audio copy for review; all opinions are my own.
The narrator did a good job telling the story. She was animated as needed as needed and somber when it was required. Krys Janae truly brought Ana Mia to life.
I enjoyed the story created. Boye wrestles with the ideas of what we do as a family and what we do as a county, a world, Ana Mia is split between them both when she joins the Midnight Guard. Her life becomes even more complicated when she is attacked by one of the coyotes, one of the extraterrestrials that have overrun the world.
The end sets up for an exciting second book that expands on the aliens and I can’t wait to listen to it.
I received a free audio copy for review; all opinions are my own.
June 15, 2025
I liked the idea of this book because I really enjoy sci-fi and this kind of reminded me of the movie Signs (which I love), but the execution was clunky and juvenile (which is fine because I'm not the target audience). Definitely needed a better editor.
Ana Maria was very childish and hard to believe as a "soldier". I feel like she had an undiagnosed case of narcolepsy because all she wanted to do was sleep! It was a running theme throughout the book that just got old. Her mother was annoying, and several scenes were choppy with repetitive dialogue, the military higher ups taking orders from kids was hard to believe.
I'm not a fan of cliffhangers, but what really solidified the fact I will not be reading any of the follow up books is when the story ended with the line: "take me to your leader". Insert massive eye roll!!
Ana Maria was very childish and hard to believe as a "soldier". I feel like she had an undiagnosed case of narcolepsy because all she wanted to do was sleep! It was a running theme throughout the book that just got old. Her mother was annoying, and several scenes were choppy with repetitive dialogue, the military higher ups taking orders from kids was hard to believe.
I'm not a fan of cliffhangers, but what really solidified the fact I will not be reading any of the follow up books is when the story ended with the line: "take me to your leader". Insert massive eye roll!!
September 14, 2018
This was fun. Story follows Ana Mia a young girl who witnessed the Alien invasion six years ago that changed the world, and took her father. Refuged in a the safe haven of Fort Hope in Texas, she soon takes the job of soldier protecting the community from the ongoing invasion. While on an incursion seeking supplies for the upcoming winter, she is attacked and bitten by one of the Aliens. She survives but not without consequences no one expected. I liked that there are several different types of Aliens in the story, and you don't really know which are in charge. Follow Ana and her friends as they trek across a dystopian wasteland in the search of safety and answers. FYI ends in cliff hanger so expect to want the next one immediately.
January 28, 2020
3.5 stars....
The blurb caught my attention and decided to give it a try. If you enjoy dystopian genre I think you will enjoy this book especially if you sprinkle some alien invasion into the mix.
This story follows Ana who has decided to join The Midnight Guard. This story had some interesting points but the writing at times that the author chose to deceive certain scenes would take me away from the story and leave me wondering on her choice of words. I’m no writer but it did break my concentration. I liked how this book was clean. No cuss words. This book does end in a cliffhanger.
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator was okay. When saying words in spanish she pronounced them fine.
The blurb caught my attention and decided to give it a try. If you enjoy dystopian genre I think you will enjoy this book especially if you sprinkle some alien invasion into the mix.
This story follows Ana who has decided to join The Midnight Guard. This story had some interesting points but the writing at times that the author chose to deceive certain scenes would take me away from the story and leave me wondering on her choice of words. I’m no writer but it did break my concentration. I liked how this book was clean. No cuss words. This book does end in a cliffhanger.
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator was okay. When saying words in spanish she pronounced them fine.
August 9, 2020
Ana Mia Berrios bor i Fort Hope, en liten del av Texas Där människor fortfarande är skyddade från utomjordingarna. De är ständigt nära, väntar och iakttar vad vi gör.
Ana Mia ska välja sitt yrke, hon väljer The Midnight Guard som skyddar den lilla staden och dess invånare. Det är ett tufft och farligt arbete med många timmars arbete och lite sömn. Hon blir antagen och tränad. Allt är ok tills den kvällen då staden blir anfallen och Ana Mia måste fly för sitt liv. Kommer hon klara sig?
Det är lätt att följa med i berättelsen. Med enkla medel beskriver författaren omgivningar och känslor utan att krångla till det. Jag gillar de olika karaktärerna. Detta är första boken i en trilogi och jag kommer fortsätta läsa nästa bok.
Ana Mia ska välja sitt yrke, hon väljer The Midnight Guard som skyddar den lilla staden och dess invånare. Det är ett tufft och farligt arbete med många timmars arbete och lite sömn. Hon blir antagen och tränad. Allt är ok tills den kvällen då staden blir anfallen och Ana Mia måste fly för sitt liv. Kommer hon klara sig?
Det är lätt att följa med i berättelsen. Med enkla medel beskriver författaren omgivningar och känslor utan att krångla till det. Jag gillar de olika karaktärerna. Detta är första boken i en trilogi och jag kommer fortsätta läsa nästa bok.
January 28, 2018
Aliens...
Science fiction is really not my cup of tea. This book looked interesting so I thought I would try. Once I read the first page, I didn't want to stop reading.
Aliens are here. The coyote like beasts on the ground & the harvesters in their space ship. The coyote beasts find the people while the space ship beams them up.
This author has a really good storyline and developed his characters well.
Would recommend to anyone who wants to read a good book!
I've already downloaded book2...😉
Science fiction is really not my cup of tea. This book looked interesting so I thought I would try. Once I read the first page, I didn't want to stop reading.
Aliens are here. The coyote like beasts on the ground & the harvesters in their space ship. The coyote beasts find the people while the space ship beams them up.
This author has a really good storyline and developed his characters well.
Would recommend to anyone who wants to read a good book!
I've already downloaded book2...😉
March 23, 2020
I absolutely loved When They Came by Kody Boye. It was certainly a different take on the usual alien invasion scenario. The author had no hesitation in killing off characters - which was both refreshing, surprising, and awful in equal measure. The writing was clear and easy to follow, perfect for juvenile and young adult readers.
If you enjoy sci-fi, alien invasion stories, or apocalyptic/dystopian tales, I encourage you to give this book and this series a try. I look forward to reading more.
If you enjoy sci-fi, alien invasion stories, or apocalyptic/dystopian tales, I encourage you to give this book and this series a try. I look forward to reading more.
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