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Configured #2
Immersed
Just when she thought it was safe to step into the light.
After a daring escape from Elore, Avlyn finds that the Outerbounds isn't the haven of freedom she's hoped for. No one seems to trust anyone. And Avlyn's unique ability to control technology through Immersion marks her as a valuable but dangerous tool.
A tool that everyone wants to control.
After a daring escape from Elore, Avlyn finds that the Outerbounds isn't the haven of freedom she's hoped for. No one seems to trust anyone. And Avlyn's unique ability to control technology through Immersion marks her as a valuable but dangerous tool.
A tool that everyone wants to control.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2017
1656 people are currently reading
924 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
January 28, 2020
3.25 undazzled stars ★★★✬✩
⤐ Overall.
This was by all accounts an unremarkable story. I'm truly sorry to say this but I even procrastinated writing this review because I have no clue what to say.
We know most of the characters. At least I think so because I've been listening to the audiobooks back to back over the last weeks and I can't even separate most of the plot anymore, lol. We know most of the characters but are introduced to a few new ones and the arch of suspense goes along the same lines as the prequel. It's not that the plot is similar it's just that I'm similarly clueless as to what to say about it. I was definitely ad-meyer-ing certain aspects of the story, if you know what I mean.
World(-building). Because we leave the safe surroundings of Elore in this instalment, we finally realise how twisted the reality inside it is. Different forms of settlement, as well as new tech, are introduced which improved the visions I had of this dystopian future.
⤐ What’s happening.
That's what's keeping Avalyn busy while she's jumping from one challenge to the next, hunted by Direction and questioning Affinity's motives.
_____________________
writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 3*
plot/story in general = 4*
plot development = 3*
characters = 4*
enjoyability = 3*
insightfulness = 4*
_____________________
Many thanks to the author Jenetta Penner, who provided me with this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This book is for you if… you've enjoyed the prequel and would like to continue Avalyn's story. Or maybe you're just here for Meyer, I certainly couldn't blame you.
⤐ Overall.
This was by all accounts an unremarkable story. I'm truly sorry to say this but I even procrastinated writing this review because I have no clue what to say.
We know most of the characters. At least I think so because I've been listening to the audiobooks back to back over the last weeks and I can't even separate most of the plot anymore, lol. We know most of the characters but are introduced to a few new ones and the arch of suspense goes along the same lines as the prequel. It's not that the plot is similar it's just that I'm similarly clueless as to what to say about it. I was definitely ad-meyer-ing certain aspects of the story, if you know what I mean.
World(-building). Because we leave the safe surroundings of Elore in this instalment, we finally realise how twisted the reality inside it is. Different forms of settlement, as well as new tech, are introduced which improved the visions I had of this dystopian future.
⤐ What’s happening.
‘So how is it that a girl who wanted to remain in the shadows somehow keeps thrusting herself into the light?’
That's what's keeping Avalyn busy while she's jumping from one challenge to the next, hunted by Direction and questioning Affinity's motives.
_____________________
writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 3*
plot/story in general = 4*
plot development = 3*
characters = 4*
enjoyability = 3*
insightfulness = 4*
_____________________
Many thanks to the author Jenetta Penner, who provided me with this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2018
🌟🌟🌟1/2 satisfying Stars
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com
So after Configured left us hanging on such an ending I was super excited to be offered an ARC of Immersed (Configured trilogy #2) and Jenetta Penner has done it again with this second instalment in this exciting YA saga, producing a world that's so easy to get engrossed and lost in.
Immersed starts off practically where we left off, the morning after being rescued.
So now in New Philly, A place the inhabitants of Elore have no idea of, Avlyn finds herself again a pawn in a battle, where both sides are not being entirely honest concerning there motives.
Not being able to tell her enemies from her friends Avlyn decides it's time to strike away and regroup, taking along her friends and brother for the battle ahead.
So Immersed, what did I think, well I really enjoyed it, but I didn't find it quite as captivating as the first book Configured.
I also had a few little nitpicks that pulled this down a bit for me hence the reason for dropping it half a star, (I gave Configured Four stars).
Still, this still was a really great addition to the dystopian genre and I'm looking forward to reading the conclusion to this fascinating trilogy.
So My issues with this I'm going to point them.
1) Avlyn was so worried about her friend Aron and leaving him behind in new Philly. What about her dad.she only gives fleeting thought to the man who raised her and his safety.
2)Despite expressing her feelings for Meyer, Avlyn starts sniffing around Aron talk about fickle.
3) Why did I find Avlyn so annoying this time round? because I did.
4) Not much occurs in this instalment bar training and tests, Yes there is some fighting to break it up but I would also have liked to see some more advancement in the romantic department.
5)Meyer kiss her already, show some initiative before Aron swoops in and steals your girl.
Now the above are all personal reasons for me so discounting my gripes,
(It's not the author's fault I'm finding Avyln a trifle irritating and Meyer not more forthcoming in his affections or is it? Grrrr)
So where was I, Oh Yes, this was a well thought out story with terrific, if a little scary, world building.
It was a very easy well-written clean read that I would definitely recommend to my fellow dystopian lovers.
I also should mention that this is a YA Novel, don't let that bother you, this is easily enjoyable for all ages, I'm much older and didn't have a problem at all.
Thank you to the Publisher and Author for providing me with an arc of Immersed (Configured trilogy #2) this is my own honest and unbiased opinion.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com
So after Configured left us hanging on such an ending I was super excited to be offered an ARC of Immersed (Configured trilogy #2) and Jenetta Penner has done it again with this second instalment in this exciting YA saga, producing a world that's so easy to get engrossed and lost in.
Immersed starts off practically where we left off, the morning after being rescued.
So now in New Philly, A place the inhabitants of Elore have no idea of, Avlyn finds herself again a pawn in a battle, where both sides are not being entirely honest concerning there motives.
Not being able to tell her enemies from her friends Avlyn decides it's time to strike away and regroup, taking along her friends and brother for the battle ahead.
So Immersed, what did I think, well I really enjoyed it, but I didn't find it quite as captivating as the first book Configured.
I also had a few little nitpicks that pulled this down a bit for me hence the reason for dropping it half a star, (I gave Configured Four stars).
Still, this still was a really great addition to the dystopian genre and I'm looking forward to reading the conclusion to this fascinating trilogy.
So My issues with this I'm going to point them.
1) Avlyn was so worried about her friend Aron and leaving him behind in new Philly. What about her dad.she only gives fleeting thought to the man who raised her and his safety.
2)Despite expressing her feelings for Meyer, Avlyn starts sniffing around Aron talk about fickle.
3) Why did I find Avlyn so annoying this time round? because I did.
4) Not much occurs in this instalment bar training and tests, Yes there is some fighting to break it up but I would also have liked to see some more advancement in the romantic department.
5)Meyer kiss her already, show some initiative before Aron swoops in and steals your girl.
Now the above are all personal reasons for me so discounting my gripes,
(It's not the author's fault I'm finding Avyln a trifle irritating and Meyer not more forthcoming in his affections or is it? Grrrr)
So where was I, Oh Yes, this was a well thought out story with terrific, if a little scary, world building.
It was a very easy well-written clean read that I would definitely recommend to my fellow dystopian lovers.
I also should mention that this is a YA Novel, don't let that bother you, this is easily enjoyable for all ages, I'm much older and didn't have a problem at all.
Thank you to the Publisher and Author for providing me with an arc of Immersed (Configured trilogy #2) this is my own honest and unbiased opinion.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
November 16, 2017
I loved “Configured”, and had high expectations of “Immersed. I was not disappointed. Avlyn is now reunited with her Brother, Ben, whom she had believed dead. Along with Meyer and Sandra, she has escaped the drab, regimented world of Elore to join the Affinity rebels in New Philadelphia. New Philly offers freedom, colour, birds, grass and real food, but does it also offer safety?
Avlyn discovers that she and Ben share the same ability to ‘immerse’ themselves in, and to manipulate, computer code. She had fled Elore before Manning and Direction could discover her true abilities, but through Affinity, the leader of New Philadelphia – Waters – has become aware of just how useful Avlyn could be. As Waters restricts Avlyn’s liberty by imposing armed chaperones, and demands that she undergo ‘testing’, alarm bells start to ring.
Soon, Avlyn and her friends are on the run again, unsure of whom they can truly trust. Aron, Avlyn’s prospective spouse, has had his world turned upside down: “When you experience something your entire life, you come to accept it, and you feel like a lunatic if you start to ask questions." Meyer cannot trust that Aron has accepted the wrongness of Direction’s approach, but Avlyn cannot leave him behind.
Avlyn has not only her and Ben’s abilities to safeguard, and civilisation to save, but she must also get her head around personal relationships – something for which her former life in emotion-free Elore never prepared her: “If only I could understand people the same way I understand computer systems. Life would be considerably easier”. In “Immersion”, Avlyn’s emotional maturity grows, as did her social and moral maturity in “Configured”.
Moral ambiguity is still present. Avlyn wants to see the best in people, but sometimes ‘good’ people do ‘bad’ things. Can you condemn someone for a single action, without understanding what lead them to it? Is reality ever black and white? If you oppose evil, does that make you good?
This book is just as fast-paced and as exciting as “Configured”, and leaves you impatient for the third book in the trilogy. Highly recommended.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
Avlyn discovers that she and Ben share the same ability to ‘immerse’ themselves in, and to manipulate, computer code. She had fled Elore before Manning and Direction could discover her true abilities, but through Affinity, the leader of New Philadelphia – Waters – has become aware of just how useful Avlyn could be. As Waters restricts Avlyn’s liberty by imposing armed chaperones, and demands that she undergo ‘testing’, alarm bells start to ring.
Soon, Avlyn and her friends are on the run again, unsure of whom they can truly trust. Aron, Avlyn’s prospective spouse, has had his world turned upside down: “When you experience something your entire life, you come to accept it, and you feel like a lunatic if you start to ask questions." Meyer cannot trust that Aron has accepted the wrongness of Direction’s approach, but Avlyn cannot leave him behind.
Avlyn has not only her and Ben’s abilities to safeguard, and civilisation to save, but she must also get her head around personal relationships – something for which her former life in emotion-free Elore never prepared her: “If only I could understand people the same way I understand computer systems. Life would be considerably easier”. In “Immersion”, Avlyn’s emotional maturity grows, as did her social and moral maturity in “Configured”.
Moral ambiguity is still present. Avlyn wants to see the best in people, but sometimes ‘good’ people do ‘bad’ things. Can you condemn someone for a single action, without understanding what lead them to it? Is reality ever black and white? If you oppose evil, does that make you good?
This book is just as fast-paced and as exciting as “Configured”, and leaves you impatient for the third book in the trilogy. Highly recommended.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
October 28, 2021
I've read a large amount of YA dystopias lately, after avoiding them for years. Configured, The Testing, and Partials, all of these came out at a time to try and coast off the success of The Hunger Games and all of them follow a lot of the same tropes. But they all have very different quality.
The Testing is awful.
Partials is really good.
And Configured is just okay. It has the post-apocalyptic world, the dictatorship that makes no sense, the teenaged girl heroine, you know the drill. But it's all done competently. It's not great, but it could have been so much worse.
The only plot beat that annoyed me was how it's revealed that Avlyn's immersion powers are from genetic experimentation. I liked it better when she was just a really talented hacker that could do something no one else could. (That sounds like a spoiler, but it comes up in one of the first chapters.)
Beyond the way it displays how a story can be good or bad regardless of the tropes it uses, there's not much reason to read this. But if it interests you, check it out.
The Testing is awful.
Partials is really good.
And Configured is just okay. It has the post-apocalyptic world, the dictatorship that makes no sense, the teenaged girl heroine, you know the drill. But it's all done competently. It's not great, but it could have been so much worse.
The only plot beat that annoyed me was how it's revealed that Avlyn's immersion powers are from genetic experimentation. I liked it better when she was just a really talented hacker that could do something no one else could. (That sounds like a spoiler, but it comes up in one of the first chapters.)
Beyond the way it displays how a story can be good or bad regardless of the tropes it uses, there's not much reason to read this. But if it interests you, check it out.
June 1, 2020
REREAD UPDATE: Less enthused about book 3 after this second read, but still intrigued enough to move on. Also much less interested in the budding romance.
Alright, when the hell is book 3 coming out? I wasn't invested in this series but now I'm invested enough that I want to know how it ends.
I still want crazy mind-coding powers.
And maybe some more consistency. (Seriously, don't say "we can't do this" and then have them do it with no hitches two minutes later. That annoys me.)
But yeah. It's alright. I don't mind it. And I'll leave it there.
Alright, when the hell is book 3 coming out? I wasn't invested in this series but now I'm invested enough that I want to know how it ends.
I still want crazy mind-coding powers.
And maybe some more consistency. (Seriously, don't say "we can't do this" and then have them do it with no hitches two minutes later. That annoys me.)
But yeah. It's alright. I don't mind it. And I'll leave it there.
July 19, 2017
Another amazing book in the Configured Trilogy!!!
Immersed is full of everything- excitement, intrigue, mystery, fear, pain, and the first inklings of love (with all the confusion and mixed feelings that go along with it). It's the type of story that engulfs you, grabbing hold and not letting go until the very end, leaving you screaming for more. All the high-tech aspects are explained well enough that even if you're like me- not really all that tech savvy- you'll get it.
The characters are well written and relatable, with Avlyn realistically waffling between brave heroine and scared young woman. She's got a backbone, but the author never forgets that's she's been basically thrust into the unknown, having to rely on her wits and a handful of people when she doesn't know who really to trust.
All in all, great book! I was totally Immersed in the story. ;)
*I received a gift advanced copy of this book from the author.
Immersed is full of everything- excitement, intrigue, mystery, fear, pain, and the first inklings of love (with all the confusion and mixed feelings that go along with it). It's the type of story that engulfs you, grabbing hold and not letting go until the very end, leaving you screaming for more. All the high-tech aspects are explained well enough that even if you're like me- not really all that tech savvy- you'll get it.
The characters are well written and relatable, with Avlyn realistically waffling between brave heroine and scared young woman. She's got a backbone, but the author never forgets that's she's been basically thrust into the unknown, having to rely on her wits and a handful of people when she doesn't know who really to trust.
All in all, great book! I was totally Immersed in the story. ;)
*I received a gift advanced copy of this book from the author.
April 29, 2020
Okay, so you know how in the last one I said she was a whimp? Well, ta da! My dream has come true! She's becoming something more! And it actually makes a lot more sense now as well. I thought it was her personality, but in reality...it was how she was raised in the city. I feel like a bitch lmao.
Enjoying it whole heartedly.
Enjoying it whole heartedly.
August 8, 2017
4.5/5
In this continuation, Avlyn and her brother explore their abilities more. Avlyn calls it Immersing with the system and nanotech that most people have.
Though this novel wasn't action packed until the end, it still kept up the pace of the first novel. We learn more about Avlyn, her powers, and her brother. We see how all the years they spent apart, along with their varied childhoods, cause them to react differently.
I found this book very engaging, and I can't wait to read the next one.
In this continuation, Avlyn and her brother explore their abilities more. Avlyn calls it Immersing with the system and nanotech that most people have.
Though this novel wasn't action packed until the end, it still kept up the pace of the first novel. We learn more about Avlyn, her powers, and her brother. We see how all the years they spent apart, along with their varied childhoods, cause them to react differently.
I found this book very engaging, and I can't wait to read the next one.
October 7, 2019
This was a great continuation! After Avlyn escapes Elore, she finds out that the Outerbounds isn’t what she was hoping for and everyone wants to control her and her power, yet again. New Philadelphia is full of nature and color, but it’s not a place to feel safe in. She doesn’t know who to trust except for her brother and friends which leads to more complications and revelations. Avlyn and her group are very realistic teenagers always going through brave, scared, and stressed phases, but she makes plenty of aggravating decisions along the way. We learn more about Avlyn and Ben’s abilities in this sequel and the action isn’t as frequent. The love triangle between Avlyn, Aaron, and Meyer is progressing and feels mostly natural within the story. I can’t wait to see more of this technological world and how her story ends!
Brittany did a great job with this narration! I was honestly surprised that the narrator was changed between the first and second book, but the voices were similar. I liked that she was able to put emotions where they were needed, but could also portray the emotionless world as well with her performance.
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Brittany did a great job with this narration! I was honestly surprised that the narrator was changed between the first and second book, but the voices were similar. I liked that she was able to put emotions where they were needed, but could also portray the emotionless world as well with her performance.
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 26, 2018
Edit 9/26/18: I'm dropping the rating of this to three stars because my DNF of the third book in the trilogy made me realize that while the series was okay, I never liked it quite as much as I *wanted* to.
__________
3 1/2 stars.
Not my favorite YA dystopian series, but interesting enough to keep me reading.
__________
3 1/2 stars.
Not my favorite YA dystopian series, but interesting enough to keep me reading.
August 2, 2017
Though a little uneven and transitional, it's still a compelling story that I very much enjoyed reading. However, there were so many errors. :( The second half of this book had an error (usually a missing word) on every page. Jenetta Penner is a great writer, but she needs a great editor.
August 18, 2020
Well this was just as slow as the first one. I think the world would be cool and all the tech is amazing, but the story line just makes me zone out. The characters are boring and so is the plot. I can't actually remember much of what happened and I only read it a few days ago.
March 20, 2019
It’s ok.
Liked the first book, but this one seems to start to drag from the middle to the end. And avlyn does several stupid things that are not realistic in real life.
Liked the first book, but this one seems to start to drag from the middle to the end. And avlyn does several stupid things that are not realistic in real life.
August 24, 2018
A solid sequel
The rundown:
Avyln is now safe is another city... or is she? A mysterious guard holds the key to her past and her future but who can she trust? Relationships continue to develop with both of the love interests in her life and avyln continues to learn about her ability to immerse with technology can right the wrongs in her world... if she can survive that long,
The good:
The progression of the book makes sense. It has been less than a month since avyln first found out about her ability and her worlds corruption. The love triangle doesn’t feel forced and both characters are lovable yet different in a not annoying way
The bad:
Like with the first book, I really don’t have too much to complain about! I wish we knew more about avyln’s father and that relationship was given a bit more development but I understand the author shifting focus.
The hope:
With several characters “out of commission”, it will be interesting to see how the author keeps the plot line moving logically. I’m still not sure who I want avyln to end up with, if anybody! But I want her to get her happy ending, in a small town, with family who love her, and freedom.
The rundown:
Avyln is now safe is another city... or is she? A mysterious guard holds the key to her past and her future but who can she trust? Relationships continue to develop with both of the love interests in her life and avyln continues to learn about her ability to immerse with technology can right the wrongs in her world... if she can survive that long,
The good:
The progression of the book makes sense. It has been less than a month since avyln first found out about her ability and her worlds corruption. The love triangle doesn’t feel forced and both characters are lovable yet different in a not annoying way
The bad:
Like with the first book, I really don’t have too much to complain about! I wish we knew more about avyln’s father and that relationship was given a bit more development but I understand the author shifting focus.
The hope:
With several characters “out of commission”, it will be interesting to see how the author keeps the plot line moving logically. I’m still not sure who I want avyln to end up with, if anybody! But I want her to get her happy ending, in a small town, with family who love her, and freedom.
July 20, 2017
Immersed was an amazing book!! I cannot wait for the next one as this one does end in a bit of a cliffhanger. I feel that the main character, Avlyn, made some bad decisions and should have listened to her brother, but in the end, what was done was done and it wouldn't be a good book if everything was perfect. Without spoilers I can't say a lot more, but an excellent book that should be read in order.
I received an ARC at no cost from the author.
I received an ARC at no cost from the author.
January 1, 2018
Good book!
This one was just as good as the first. The only thing lacking was more relationship development between Avelyn and Meyer. I would like to see more interaction between the two.
This one was just as good as the first. The only thing lacking was more relationship development between Avelyn and Meyer. I would like to see more interaction between the two.
January 9, 2020
Wow, what a ride! I enjoyed going along for the ride of this adventure.
May 9, 2020
Can’t wait to read the final book
Book was pretty good. I thought there was a lag in the middle, but the action at the end was sure exciting. I can’t wait to read the final book in the series.
Book was pretty good. I thought there was a lag in the middle, but the action at the end was sure exciting. I can’t wait to read the final book in the series.
August 16, 2017
This book was definitely worth waiting for.
Escaping Elore and the strict rules of Direction, Avlyn ends up in New Philadelphia with the Affinity. But her meeting with president Waters rubs off wrong, and following her intuition, Avlyn runs away together with Meyer, Aron, Sanda, and her twin brother Ben. They find refuge at Sanda's mom, Gabrielle, and excellent programmer. Avlyn, now equipped with more advanced EP, is able to immerse into the tech sphere more easily than before, sometimes connecting and coding without a touch. But that's not the most amazing of her abilities - the uniqueness of what connects her to Ben performs real wonders. However, there are people out there who would like to abuse their superskills regardless the life loss.
This whole series is a stunning YA dystopian sci-fi story. Wondreful advanced world is mixed with elements of our reality and a much simpler life, all of it scattered on the surface of partly devastated planet. Ultra-advanced city like Elore vs. Thornton, a simple small city without much electricity, that is a beautiful contrast, which moreover provides a thoughtful insight about the pros and cons of too much artificial intelligence, and the valuable picture of the joy a simple life filled with emotions could bring. All this provides a great environment for a fast plot development, with the story zeroed on Avlyn and her closest friends. The messy and quickly changing relationships within the group brought fresh air into the story, and elevated some excitement with Meyer and Aron competing for Avlyn's attention. They are so different, yet both are very endearing and I love them equally. Avlyn is also a great character, despite her youth quite mature and very intelligent, though impulsive and willing to sacrifice all to protect those she loves and to help the innocent.
Awesome book, and I am waiting for the next one to get hooked again.
I read the ARC and all opinions are my own.
Escaping Elore and the strict rules of Direction, Avlyn ends up in New Philadelphia with the Affinity. But her meeting with president Waters rubs off wrong, and following her intuition, Avlyn runs away together with Meyer, Aron, Sanda, and her twin brother Ben. They find refuge at Sanda's mom, Gabrielle, and excellent programmer. Avlyn, now equipped with more advanced EP, is able to immerse into the tech sphere more easily than before, sometimes connecting and coding without a touch. But that's not the most amazing of her abilities - the uniqueness of what connects her to Ben performs real wonders. However, there are people out there who would like to abuse their superskills regardless the life loss.
This whole series is a stunning YA dystopian sci-fi story. Wondreful advanced world is mixed with elements of our reality and a much simpler life, all of it scattered on the surface of partly devastated planet. Ultra-advanced city like Elore vs. Thornton, a simple small city without much electricity, that is a beautiful contrast, which moreover provides a thoughtful insight about the pros and cons of too much artificial intelligence, and the valuable picture of the joy a simple life filled with emotions could bring. All this provides a great environment for a fast plot development, with the story zeroed on Avlyn and her closest friends. The messy and quickly changing relationships within the group brought fresh air into the story, and elevated some excitement with Meyer and Aron competing for Avlyn's attention. They are so different, yet both are very endearing and I love them equally. Avlyn is also a great character, despite her youth quite mature and very intelligent, though impulsive and willing to sacrifice all to protect those she loves and to help the innocent.
Awesome book, and I am waiting for the next one to get hooked again.
I read the ARC and all opinions are my own.
November 13, 2017
I just really like Aaron.
September 12, 2019
Adventure, Action, Love & Loss
When I was first introduced to the configured trilogy, my attention was immediately captured. To read this new world, picture it in my mind and immerse myself with these characters... to say I was vested is an understatement. Continuing into Immersed I was struck quickly with the emotions I first felt entering this world. Trying to figure out along with Avlyn who really was on her side, trying to control the overwhelming emotions while caring for those in her growing heart she is learning to trust. A new concept for her. As a reader sometimes you can read a book, get a picture and background but it lacks of emotions they try to express. Mrs. Penner literally immerses her readers into her world as Avlyn and Ben immerse into the programming of this world, allowing yourself to become part of it. Your heart grows with the characters, your heart breaks as well while you hope the choices made are for the best. Once again we are left with guessing where this story will continue and wait impatiently to for answers to come. My mind is a whirlwind trying to figure out how this will play out but also said to know this story is close to ending. Readers come along for the ride, immerse yourself in a story that will capture your mind.
When I was first introduced to the configured trilogy, my attention was immediately captured. To read this new world, picture it in my mind and immerse myself with these characters... to say I was vested is an understatement. Continuing into Immersed I was struck quickly with the emotions I first felt entering this world. Trying to figure out along with Avlyn who really was on her side, trying to control the overwhelming emotions while caring for those in her growing heart she is learning to trust. A new concept for her. As a reader sometimes you can read a book, get a picture and background but it lacks of emotions they try to express. Mrs. Penner literally immerses her readers into her world as Avlyn and Ben immerse into the programming of this world, allowing yourself to become part of it. Your heart grows with the characters, your heart breaks as well while you hope the choices made are for the best. Once again we are left with guessing where this story will continue and wait impatiently to for answers to come. My mind is a whirlwind trying to figure out how this will play out but also said to know this story is close to ending. Readers come along for the ride, immerse yourself in a story that will capture your mind.
July 19, 2017
I was pretty excited to receive the email containing the ARC for this book, the last sci-fi YA book I read was super disappointing, but this book brought my love for dystopian YA books back! Like I mentioned in my Amazon review I did like this one better than the first a little bit because more time was spent on the characters of this one rather than world-building in the first. I do enjoy that Avlyn is both logical but also very compassionate. Avlyn is still a young girl that wants to save everyone and sadly in war you can't always do that, but she tries and never stops trying to save at least one person.
There is a little bit of a love-triangle but not the focus of the plot and in the end Meyer is still who she loves. It was the little tidbits of the other characters like, Aron who was physically and emotionally abused by his "parents" for his entire life, that really made the story come together for me. They felt like actual people and you couldn't help but root for them.
If you enjoyed Configured then you'll love immersed! Looking forward to Actualized to see how it all plays out!
There is a little bit of a love-triangle but not the focus of the plot and in the end Meyer is still who she loves. It was the little tidbits of the other characters like, Aron who was physically and emotionally abused by his "parents" for his entire life, that really made the story come together for me. They felt like actual people and you couldn't help but root for them.
If you enjoyed Configured then you'll love immersed! Looking forward to Actualized to see how it all plays out!
August 4, 2017
"I received an ARC at no cost from the author."
The second installment in this enthralling YA dystopian trilogy which will have you on the edge of your seat! Setting has changed as our protagonists are now in hiding after escaping from Elore.
What makes it different from other dystopian novels is this world of advanced technology,quite plausible and I found Avlyn and Ben's enhanced hacker- type abilities really fascinating. On top of that, lots of action as well as a little bit of romance which doesn't hurt! Can't wait for the next book
Ideal for 'Divergent' fans.
The second installment in this enthralling YA dystopian trilogy which will have you on the edge of your seat! Setting has changed as our protagonists are now in hiding after escaping from Elore.
What makes it different from other dystopian novels is this world of advanced technology,quite plausible and I found Avlyn and Ben's enhanced hacker- type abilities really fascinating. On top of that, lots of action as well as a little bit of romance which doesn't hurt! Can't wait for the next book
Ideal for 'Divergent' fans.
January 10, 2018
Great Series So Far...
I'd like to give this 4 stars but the grammatical errors make it too difficult and have been driving me crazy. Otherwise great follow up to book one and I can't wait to read book three! I've gotten attached to the characters in The Configured Trilogy and really enjoy the plot.
I'd like to give this 4 stars but the grammatical errors make it too difficult and have been driving me crazy. Otherwise great follow up to book one and I can't wait to read book three! I've gotten attached to the characters in The Configured Trilogy and really enjoy the plot.
November 19, 2020
I will admit I wasn’t invested in Configured. But after reading this! The third book is going to be my very best friend. So good I loved it. It was definitely very fast paced and I felt that I got to see Avlyn grow more as a person and her love interests come to the light. Also Aron is my favorite because he’s a chill dude.
November 7, 2017
Lacked action until the end and that's when it got interesting
June 16, 2019
Even more action-packed than book one!
August 7, 2017
//I received a free Advanced Reader's Copy from the author in exchange of an honest review//
Book: Immersed [Book 2 of the Configured trilogy]
Author: Jenetta Penner
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Romance, Action.
My rate: 4/5
Publish date: 18th July 2017
I finally finished reading Immersed by Jenetta Penner. This is book two of the Configured trilogy. I am really grateful to have received an ARC of this from the author herself. After reading Configured, I was dying to read the next book because of the cliffhanger at the end of it. Excuse me if the review is kind of all over the place. I’m trying out a different style from my usual reviews so this one will be through points. Let me know if you guys like this or you want me to revert to my usual paragraph style. So, without further ado, here is my review of Immersed by Jenetta Penner-
1) There are bits of every genre- romance, mystery, action, fantasy, sci-fi, etc. in it.
2) The story is somewhat similar to a lot of recent dystopian novels (Divergent, Hunger Games and Maze Runner) but it also retains its originality and has a great plot that grips you and pulls you in until the end.
3) Avlyn and her twin brother Ben's relationship as well as Avlyn's relationship with Meyer and Aron are explored more.
4) Great world building.
5) The technical terms are very well described so even those who are not really used to technical terms and procedures will understand it.
6) Avlyn's character is very realistic as she is both the brave and capable heroine seen in most YA novels and also the scared and irresponsible young girl who tries to help everyone and ends up harming herself and her friends along the way.
7) Heart wrenching scenes which will have you sobbing your heart out and screaming "whyyyyy?!" at the book even though no one can hear you and if they did, would think you went mad.
8) Avlyn doesn't always make the best choices and sometimes her bad decisions cost the people close to her. But that only makes her character more real since real people always make mistakes, no one is perfect.
9) Despite me saying that her character was "real" and "genuine", there were still times when I felt like slapping her and telling her to just listen to the people around her.
10) Since this is a "dystopian" novel, the technology mentioned in the book seems a possibility in our future and that is fascinating yet scary too.
11) I both loved and hated the love triangle. I felt really bad for Aron and think that he deserves better. It is obvious from the start that Aron loves Avlyn and it is heartbreaking to see him still holding on to hope despite knowing that Avlyn loves Meyer and will probably always love him.
12) The kiss was so unexpected. I was shouting in my head "Go Aron!”. I know it's wrong to ship them when Avlyn is already with Meyer but I can't help but hope that in some weird other future, Avlyn and Aron would end up together. Aron is just so precious and innocent and I adore his character so much. (There I go again with my second lead syndrome.)
13) At least, if Aron x Avlyn doesn’t happen, please let Aron someone good (maybe Sanda) so that he can be happy. He deserves to be happy. (Ok I'm done now. I'll stop obsessing over the second lead xD)
14) You see Avlyn struggling with the choice to do what is right and what other people expect from her. There are various situations where she has to make choices and not all of those choices are fair but it is what it is.
15) The story is action packed and one battle after another.
16) I took quite some time to finish this book but that is at no fault of the story itself. I was just really tired and fell asleep before I could read much. The book was a total page-turner and attention grabbing. I loved it through and through.
17) The cliffhanger at the end left me craving for me and I'm gonna sign up for the ARC of the next book in the series right now because I can't wait any longer.
You can also read my review on my blog: https://myscarletblog.wordpress.com/2...
Book: Immersed [Book 2 of the Configured trilogy]
Author: Jenetta Penner
Genre: Young Adult, Science Fiction, Romance, Action.
My rate: 4/5
Publish date: 18th July 2017
I finally finished reading Immersed by Jenetta Penner. This is book two of the Configured trilogy. I am really grateful to have received an ARC of this from the author herself. After reading Configured, I was dying to read the next book because of the cliffhanger at the end of it. Excuse me if the review is kind of all over the place. I’m trying out a different style from my usual reviews so this one will be through points. Let me know if you guys like this or you want me to revert to my usual paragraph style. So, without further ado, here is my review of Immersed by Jenetta Penner-
1) There are bits of every genre- romance, mystery, action, fantasy, sci-fi, etc. in it.
2) The story is somewhat similar to a lot of recent dystopian novels (Divergent, Hunger Games and Maze Runner) but it also retains its originality and has a great plot that grips you and pulls you in until the end.
3) Avlyn and her twin brother Ben's relationship as well as Avlyn's relationship with Meyer and Aron are explored more.
4) Great world building.
5) The technical terms are very well described so even those who are not really used to technical terms and procedures will understand it.
6) Avlyn's character is very realistic as she is both the brave and capable heroine seen in most YA novels and also the scared and irresponsible young girl who tries to help everyone and ends up harming herself and her friends along the way.
7) Heart wrenching scenes which will have you sobbing your heart out and screaming "whyyyyy?!" at the book even though no one can hear you and if they did, would think you went mad.
8) Avlyn doesn't always make the best choices and sometimes her bad decisions cost the people close to her. But that only makes her character more real since real people always make mistakes, no one is perfect.
9) Despite me saying that her character was "real" and "genuine", there were still times when I felt like slapping her and telling her to just listen to the people around her.
10) Since this is a "dystopian" novel, the technology mentioned in the book seems a possibility in our future and that is fascinating yet scary too.
11) I both loved and hated the love triangle. I felt really bad for Aron and think that he deserves better. It is obvious from the start that Aron loves Avlyn and it is heartbreaking to see him still holding on to hope despite knowing that Avlyn loves Meyer and will probably always love him.
12) The kiss was so unexpected. I was shouting in my head "Go Aron!”. I know it's wrong to ship them when Avlyn is already with Meyer but I can't help but hope that in some weird other future, Avlyn and Aron would end up together. Aron is just so precious and innocent and I adore his character so much. (There I go again with my second lead syndrome.)
13) At least, if Aron x Avlyn doesn’t happen, please let Aron someone good (maybe Sanda) so that he can be happy. He deserves to be happy. (Ok I'm done now. I'll stop obsessing over the second lead xD)
14) You see Avlyn struggling with the choice to do what is right and what other people expect from her. There are various situations where she has to make choices and not all of those choices are fair but it is what it is.
15) The story is action packed and one battle after another.
16) I took quite some time to finish this book but that is at no fault of the story itself. I was just really tired and fell asleep before I could read much. The book was a total page-turner and attention grabbing. I loved it through and through.
17) The cliffhanger at the end left me craving for me and I'm gonna sign up for the ARC of the next book in the series right now because I can't wait any longer.
You can also read my review on my blog: https://myscarletblog.wordpress.com/2...
July 15, 2017
How is this not a movie yet? This story is incredible. In a world where technology is advanced and emotion is discouraged, one girl discovers she's been lied to her entire life. As a child, she and her brother were part of an experiment that gave them the ability to immerse with technology, hacking in using their mental abilities. In the first book, she escapes from the stranglehold of society and discovers that there are people living outside Elore, the main city. Now, in book 2, she discovers a whole new world. Her journey begins in New Philadelphia, another technologically advanced city, where freedom of expression is encouraged, but where she's still considered an asset because of her unique ability. She also discovers the off-the-grid settlements outside the major hubs, where people prefer to live their lives unplugged and free from the constant surveillance that comes with being connected. Meanwhile, she's caught in the center of a war between two major powers who will stop at nothing to accomplish their ends.
The technology in this world that Jenetta Penner has created is fascinating, while also plausible in the near future. What might have been mere fantasy two years ago is now completely within the realm of possibility, and soon. VR is already becoming commonplace, and AR is gaining traction. I especially loved the capabilities of Avlyn's implant, which creates an AR overlay with information about her surroundings. Of course, it can also be used as a communication device, much like the multi-taskable cell phones that much of our current society is constantly glued to. The idea that nanobots could be integrated into the human body as a medical aid is also intriguing.
The characters are wonderful - our heroine Avlyn tells the story in the first person POV so we have firsthand knowledge of all the emotions she experiences. There is a bit of a love triangle between Meyer, the resistance fighter who showed Avlyn the truth about the world in the first book, and Aron, the boy who followed society's rules and was almost Avlyn's fiance. We also get to know several other lovable characters, including Meyer's sister and Avlyn's brother, and we meet vicious villains who will stop at nothing to destroy any who pose a threat to their power and control. In other words, Avlyn and anyone who helps her.
The plot is filled with action, but the characters also moments of respite to gather their thoughts, discover their capabilities, and explore their emotions. It really brings the reader into the story emotionally, because you experience the love, fear, injustice, and determination that permeates through these personalities. There are battles, narrow escapes, and daring rescues. Abilities are constantly tested, and Avlyn continues to be faced with the choice between self preservation and charging into dangerous situations to help others. It's an exciting story, and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us in book 3.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
The technology in this world that Jenetta Penner has created is fascinating, while also plausible in the near future. What might have been mere fantasy two years ago is now completely within the realm of possibility, and soon. VR is already becoming commonplace, and AR is gaining traction. I especially loved the capabilities of Avlyn's implant, which creates an AR overlay with information about her surroundings. Of course, it can also be used as a communication device, much like the multi-taskable cell phones that much of our current society is constantly glued to. The idea that nanobots could be integrated into the human body as a medical aid is also intriguing.
The characters are wonderful - our heroine Avlyn tells the story in the first person POV so we have firsthand knowledge of all the emotions she experiences. There is a bit of a love triangle between Meyer, the resistance fighter who showed Avlyn the truth about the world in the first book, and Aron, the boy who followed society's rules and was almost Avlyn's fiance. We also get to know several other lovable characters, including Meyer's sister and Avlyn's brother, and we meet vicious villains who will stop at nothing to destroy any who pose a threat to their power and control. In other words, Avlyn and anyone who helps her.
The plot is filled with action, but the characters also moments of respite to gather their thoughts, discover their capabilities, and explore their emotions. It really brings the reader into the story emotionally, because you experience the love, fear, injustice, and determination that permeates through these personalities. There are battles, narrow escapes, and daring rescues. Abilities are constantly tested, and Avlyn continues to be faced with the choice between self preservation and charging into dangerous situations to help others. It's an exciting story, and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us in book 3.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
July 15, 2017
How is this not a movie yet? This story is incredible. In a world where technology is advanced and emotion is discouraged, one girl discovers she's been lied to her entire life. As a child, she and her brother were part of an experiment that gave them the ability to immerse with technology, hacking in using their mental abilities. In the first book, she escapes from the stranglehold of society and discovers that there are people living outside Elore, the main city. Now, in book 2, she discovers a whole new world. Her journey begins in New Philadelphia, another technologically advanced city, where freedom of expression is encouraged, but where she's still considered an asset because of her unique ability. She also discovers the off-the-grid settlements outside the major hubs, where people prefer to live their lives unplugged and free from the constant surveillance that comes with being connected. Meanwhile, she's caught in the center of a war between two major powers who will stop at nothing to accomplish their ends.
The technology in this world that Jenetta Penner has created is fascinating, while also plausible in the near future. What might have been mere fantasy two years ago is now completely within the realm of possibility, and soon. VR is already becoming commonplace, and AR is gaining traction. I especially loved the capabilities of Avlyn's implant, which creates an AR overlay with information about her surroundings. Of course, it can also be used as a communication device, much like the multi-taskable cell phones that much of our current society is constantly glued to. The idea that nanobots could be integrated into the human body as a medical aid is also intriguing.
The characters are wonderful - our heroine Avlyn tells the story in the first person POV so we have firsthand knowledge of all the emotions she experiences. There is a bit of a love triangle between Meyer, the resistance fighter who showed Avlyn the truth about the world in the first book, and Aron, the boy who followed society's rules and was almost Avlyn's fiance. We also get to know several other lovable characters, including Meyer's sister and Avlyn's brother, and we meet vicious villains who will stop at nothing to destroy any who pose a threat to their power and control. In other words, Avlyn and anyone who helps her.
The plot is filled with action, but the characters also moments of respite to gather their thoughts, discover their capabilities, and explore their emotions. It really brings the reader into the story emotionally, because you experience the love, fear, injustice, and determination that permeates through these personalities. There are battles, narrow escapes, and daring rescues. Abilities are constantly tested, and Avlyn continues to be faced with the choice between self preservation and charging into dangerous situations to help others. It's an exciting story, and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us in book 3.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
The technology in this world that Jenetta Penner has created is fascinating, while also plausible in the near future. What might have been mere fantasy two years ago is now completely within the realm of possibility, and soon. VR is already becoming commonplace, and AR is gaining traction. I especially loved the capabilities of Avlyn's implant, which creates an AR overlay with information about her surroundings. Of course, it can also be used as a communication device, much like the multi-taskable cell phones that much of our current society is constantly glued to. The idea that nanobots could be integrated into the human body as a medical aid is also intriguing.
The characters are wonderful - our heroine Avlyn tells the story in the first person POV so we have firsthand knowledge of all the emotions she experiences. There is a bit of a love triangle between Meyer, the resistance fighter who showed Avlyn the truth about the world in the first book, and Aron, the boy who followed society's rules and was almost Avlyn's fiance. We also get to know several other lovable characters, including Meyer's sister and Avlyn's brother, and we meet vicious villains who will stop at nothing to destroy any who pose a threat to their power and control. In other words, Avlyn and anyone who helps her.
The plot is filled with action, but the characters also moments of respite to gather their thoughts, discover their capabilities, and explore their emotions. It really brings the reader into the story emotionally, because you experience the love, fear, injustice, and determination that permeates through these personalities. There are battles, narrow escapes, and daring rescues. Abilities are constantly tested, and Avlyn continues to be faced with the choice between self preservation and charging into dangerous situations to help others. It's an exciting story, and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us in book 3.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
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