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The Union #1
The Union
After global warming and a second civil war devastated the former United States, two different societies rose from the ashes – the Union, a towering high-tech utopia, hugging the perimeter of the continent, and the devastated, untamed midsection known as the Ruins.
Seventeen-year-old Evan Taylor has an easy, privileged life in the Union. What she doesn’t have is any idea what to do with the rest of her life. She only knows she wants to do something meaningful, to make a difference in the lives of others.
When she’s kidnapped and taken into the Ruins as a pawn in a dispute involving her boyfriend, Bryce, her ideal world is turned upside down. What she learns while in the Ruins shakes her faith in everything she’s ever known, from Bryce, to her family, and even the Union itself.
Now Evan must choose whether to stay with Cyrus, the sexy, resourceful survivor who believes she’s in the Ruins for a reason, or return to the only life she’s ever known. But when she stumbles upon a dangerous plot that threatens both worlds, her decision could tear her apart.
The Union is a futuristic young adult romantic adventure.
Seventeen-year-old Evan Taylor has an easy, privileged life in the Union. What she doesn’t have is any idea what to do with the rest of her life. She only knows she wants to do something meaningful, to make a difference in the lives of others.
When she’s kidnapped and taken into the Ruins as a pawn in a dispute involving her boyfriend, Bryce, her ideal world is turned upside down. What she learns while in the Ruins shakes her faith in everything she’s ever known, from Bryce, to her family, and even the Union itself.
Now Evan must choose whether to stay with Cyrus, the sexy, resourceful survivor who believes she’s in the Ruins for a reason, or return to the only life she’s ever known. But when she stumbles upon a dangerous plot that threatens both worlds, her decision could tear her apart.
The Union is a futuristic young adult romantic adventure.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2014
152 people are currently reading
1325 people want to read
About the author
T.H. Hernandez
10 books213 followersT.H. Hernandez is a published author of young adult novels. THE UNION, a post-climate change dystopian adventure, was a finalist in the 2015 San Diego book awards in the Young Adult Fiction category. SUPERHERO HIGH, an urban scifi teenage romance, set in San Diego, about the offspring of the world's superheroes. Her first young adult contemporary, co-written with Jennifer DiGiovanni, PROM-WRECKED, is published through Entangled Teen.
She thrives on coffee, peanut butter-flavored anything, Doctor Who marathons, Bad Lip Reading videos, and all things young adult, especially the three young adults who share her home.
When not visiting the imaginary worlds inside her head, you can find her in usually sunny San Diego with her husband, three teenage spawns, a bearded dragon, a couple of cats, and Artemis, a neurotic rescue mutt.
She thrives on coffee, peanut butter-flavored anything, Doctor Who marathons, Bad Lip Reading videos, and all things young adult, especially the three young adults who share her home.
When not visiting the imaginary worlds inside her head, you can find her in usually sunny San Diego with her husband, three teenage spawns, a bearded dragon, a couple of cats, and Artemis, a neurotic rescue mutt.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
April 26, 2017
***4.5/5 Stars***
*After re-reading, I had to change my rating from a 4 to a 4.5. Rooting for a heroine I love, falling all over again for a sweet, rugged, captivating man, and watching the story unfold made me realize how emotionally attached I was to The Union. Add in the fact that I now understand a scene that left me previously distraught (lightbulb! I get it!), well how could I not love it more? It’s so fun to be back in this world!!*
Hernandez's debut novel was truly compelling. The story that unfolded in front of me was unique, captivating and had me glued to the pages. I came to care for many of the characters, but two completely stole the show and my heart. The setting was fascinating, and it left me longing to learn more about the world that they live in. But after that ending, I desperately need the second book in this series!
What if everything you ever thought about your world was a lie? After global warming and a second civil war wreaked havoc on the U.S., the citizens flocked to the coast. A lifestyle and cities were built called The Union. Evan lives there and while her life is no walk in the park, it is structured and safe from the harms of the Ruins outside of The Unions walled off perimeter. She has just graduated from school, and is trying to find her place in society. To find out who she is and what she truly wants, Evan embarks on a trip with her two best friends. She is even lucky enough to find out that the boy she is crushing on is traveling on the same train as her. But her life gets flipped upside down when she is kidnapped. She is being used as a pawn in a game that she can't even start to comprehend, and the first move in that game is taking her into the Ruins.
Evan is the type of heroine that you will love. She is spunky, honest, intriguing and has so much fire inside of her. I loved the emotions that erupted from her. It was so palpable. But oh man, did she make mistakes. Mistakes that weren't dumb, but were caused because of how she reacted to situations she had no experience with. And those are the easiest mistakes to forgive and move on from. Especially since Evan tries her hardest to do right by others. This is one of the top reasons why I love her so much! She has such a huge heart and a strong head on her shoulders. Thank goodness, because she's about to be thrown into a situation where she'll need both to figure out how to proceed.
I was going to talk about Bryce, the boy she has a crush on and who ends up on the same train as her. But he started to feel too perfect, or maybe it was something else I couldn’t place my finger on. Whatever it was, Bryce's ship has sailed for me and a truly beautiful man took the lead front and center. Cyrus. He was sweet, patient, kind and ruggedly handsome. He was someone that was discreetly captivating and pulled you in. There was no way I couldn't love him. For Evan, he was hope, love and family all rolled into one. He honestly took my breath away. Whether it was the words that he would use or the little actions he would display, he emitted so much emotion. You could become lost in it all, and I loved every single moment of it!
After reading The Union two times (6 months apart), I know that one of my favorite aspects of this book is that I got to watch so many different relationships unfold. Family, friends, and enemies. And you know what? It all felt real. Of course there were moments of worry and heartache, but for the most part, this book felt as though the relationships and characters were the driving force. That’s probably why this dystopian felt so unique to me. Thank goodness the second book, The Ruins, is already on my device because I'd be dying not knowing what was going to happen next. I was more than pleasantly surprised with The Union, and I believe you will too!
***ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review***
For more of my reviews, please visit:
*After re-reading, I had to change my rating from a 4 to a 4.5. Rooting for a heroine I love, falling all over again for a sweet, rugged, captivating man, and watching the story unfold made me realize how emotionally attached I was to The Union. Add in the fact that I now understand a scene that left me previously distraught (lightbulb! I get it!), well how could I not love it more? It’s so fun to be back in this world!!*
Hernandez's debut novel was truly compelling. The story that unfolded in front of me was unique, captivating and had me glued to the pages. I came to care for many of the characters, but two completely stole the show and my heart. The setting was fascinating, and it left me longing to learn more about the world that they live in. But after that ending, I desperately need the second book in this series!
I can’t help wondering if I would have spent so much time agonizing over my future if I’d known I’d be dead so soon. If I’d known, maybe I’d have done everything differently. Now I know my future. My life ends here. Alone. In the Ruins.
What if everything you ever thought about your world was a lie? After global warming and a second civil war wreaked havoc on the U.S., the citizens flocked to the coast. A lifestyle and cities were built called The Union. Evan lives there and while her life is no walk in the park, it is structured and safe from the harms of the Ruins outside of The Unions walled off perimeter. She has just graduated from school, and is trying to find her place in society. To find out who she is and what she truly wants, Evan embarks on a trip with her two best friends. She is even lucky enough to find out that the boy she is crushing on is traveling on the same train as her. But her life gets flipped upside down when she is kidnapped. She is being used as a pawn in a game that she can't even start to comprehend, and the first move in that game is taking her into the Ruins.
I’m here now, and if I’m going to survive, I can’t wallow in self-doubt and pity. It’s long past time to get my shit together.
Evan is the type of heroine that you will love. She is spunky, honest, intriguing and has so much fire inside of her. I loved the emotions that erupted from her. It was so palpable. But oh man, did she make mistakes. Mistakes that weren't dumb, but were caused because of how she reacted to situations she had no experience with. And those are the easiest mistakes to forgive and move on from. Especially since Evan tries her hardest to do right by others. This is one of the top reasons why I love her so much! She has such a huge heart and a strong head on her shoulders. Thank goodness, because she's about to be thrown into a situation where she'll need both to figure out how to proceed.
“I…” He glances down at me, his pale eyes searching mine. “I think you’re here for a reason, even if you don’t. And...I’m glad you’re here.”
I was going to talk about Bryce, the boy she has a crush on and who ends up on the same train as her. But he started to feel too perfect, or maybe it was something else I couldn’t place my finger on. Whatever it was, Bryce's ship has sailed for me and a truly beautiful man took the lead front and center. Cyrus. He was sweet, patient, kind and ruggedly handsome. He was someone that was discreetly captivating and pulled you in. There was no way I couldn't love him. For Evan, he was hope, love and family all rolled into one. He honestly took my breath away. Whether it was the words that he would use or the little actions he would display, he emitted so much emotion. You could become lost in it all, and I loved every single moment of it!
The way he kisses me, like he can’t get enough, the way my body responds to his touch… he captivates me in a way I never expected and don’t understand. I try to make sense of what’s happening with us, but it’s unlike anything I’ve ever known. It’s powerful and scary as hell.
After reading The Union two times (6 months apart), I know that one of my favorite aspects of this book is that I got to watch so many different relationships unfold. Family, friends, and enemies. And you know what? It all felt real. Of course there were moments of worry and heartache, but for the most part, this book felt as though the relationships and characters were the driving force. That’s probably why this dystopian felt so unique to me. Thank goodness the second book, The Ruins, is already on my device because I'd be dying not knowing what was going to happen next. I was more than pleasantly surprised with The Union, and I believe you will too!
***ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review***
For more of my reviews, please visit:
October 21, 2014
I was interested in reading the Union because I've had been on a trend of enjoying teenage dystopian future books (Hunger Games and Divergent come to mind right away). I may be an adult male, but I still like to read the occasional juvenile fiction book. A little light reading now and then is a perfect way to relax.
I was warned that this book might not be for me, they said it might be a bit too teen romance for me but I was cautiously optimistic anyway. I dived right in and was immediately intrigued at this new world was being unfolded before me. A futuristic city, that felt familiar but with just enough changes that made it apparent that time had passed and this wasn't Kansas anymore.
Then came the love interests. The hot hunky, beautifully shaped lips and rippling biceps love interests. I craned my neck around them to look at the world some more, the fascinating world with an apparently perfect utopian society that had more lurking beneath the surface. The tension between the characters, kept steaming up the windows though making it hard to see!
So after being reminded why I wasn't a hit with the ladies in high school and college (no rippling biceps and my shirt doesn't cling to my stomach muscles....I don't actually have stomach muscles), the book introduced me to the Ruins and I got even more intrigued. There's a whole other world that exists outside of the Union, as interesting as the Union and they have their own view of that supposedly perfect society.
Then a shirt came off again. Maybe two? I lost count, I skimmed those parts quickly, got a little embarrassed. Wrestled with the morality of reading about teenagers kissing. Wrote down some notes on some of the smoother lines the characters used so I could try them out later. And got sucked back into the mystery and history that exists between those who live in the Ruins and those who live in the Union.
Then it ended and I went, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!". The Union really left me hanging and not in a steamy scene kind of a way, just in an interesting story, need to know what happens next kind of way! So any book that has me saying "NOOOOOOOOO!" at the end because it's over I'll say is a pretty good book. Doubly so when I barrel through teenage romances just to learn more about the world these romances are unfolding in.
Strong female lead, interesting world with a unique but mysterious take on the future that leaves me wanting to ready more? Yeah, I'll be reading the next one. Even if I don't care which hunk ends up capturing her heart in the end (she better not pick Bryce!)
I was warned that this book might not be for me, they said it might be a bit too teen romance for me but I was cautiously optimistic anyway. I dived right in and was immediately intrigued at this new world was being unfolded before me. A futuristic city, that felt familiar but with just enough changes that made it apparent that time had passed and this wasn't Kansas anymore.
Then came the love interests. The hot hunky, beautifully shaped lips and rippling biceps love interests. I craned my neck around them to look at the world some more, the fascinating world with an apparently perfect utopian society that had more lurking beneath the surface. The tension between the characters, kept steaming up the windows though making it hard to see!
So after being reminded why I wasn't a hit with the ladies in high school and college (no rippling biceps and my shirt doesn't cling to my stomach muscles....I don't actually have stomach muscles), the book introduced me to the Ruins and I got even more intrigued. There's a whole other world that exists outside of the Union, as interesting as the Union and they have their own view of that supposedly perfect society.
Then a shirt came off again. Maybe two? I lost count, I skimmed those parts quickly, got a little embarrassed. Wrestled with the morality of reading about teenagers kissing. Wrote down some notes on some of the smoother lines the characters used so I could try them out later. And got sucked back into the mystery and history that exists between those who live in the Ruins and those who live in the Union.
Then it ended and I went, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!". The Union really left me hanging and not in a steamy scene kind of a way, just in an interesting story, need to know what happens next kind of way! So any book that has me saying "NOOOOOOOOO!" at the end because it's over I'll say is a pretty good book. Doubly so when I barrel through teenage romances just to learn more about the world these romances are unfolding in.
Strong female lead, interesting world with a unique but mysterious take on the future that leaves me wanting to ready more? Yeah, I'll be reading the next one. Even if I don't care which hunk ends up capturing her heart in the end (she better not pick Bryce!)
November 4, 2016
In general, I liked this book. It was an enjoyable read and kept me interested. However, there were some elements that just felt like they had been done before. Perhaps it's the dystopian genre that's getting tired and this book has the unfortunate privilege of coming late in the dystopian game. For a debut book (at least, as far as I can tell, it's a debut book), it's pretty good. Let's get into some specifics, shall we?
1. The plot. This is the element that suffers the most from cookie-cutter syndrome. There are some new things added in, though, that add a fascinating element to the plot. For example, one of the societies, the Union, is a utopia which I haven't read a lot of. The contrasting society (the old world, so to speak), I have read a lot of, unfortunately, and is quite prevalent in the dystopian genre. As for the plot line, it was a bit predictable (but again, I think this is partially because of my expansive experience with books that nothing can surprise me anymore). Girl grows up sheltered, finds out a terrible truth, learns about herself and changes and grows, things go wrong, etc, etc. This plot line, though a bit tired, was well executed, however, and kept me interested and reading (I read this in one shot).
2. The characters. I really liked the characters. Unlike plot lines, I find that characters are a bit easier to customize and personalize so each one is a little bit different than the next even if they do fit into archetypes. I really got to know the characters in this book well for such a short time frame (usually the first book is a bit low on character development because of the nature of being the first book in the series). Each was entirely unique and had their own story which I loved. The MC's friends were a little on the underdeveloped side though (although that's to be expected as they didn't play much of a role in this book).
3. The setting. One thing I think this author nailed is the setting and descriptions. Every environment is so detailed and I can picture everything in my mind. It doesn't get too crazy like Lord of the Rings but it's just enough so you can get a clear picture and not be bored if paragraphs of descriptions aren't your cup of tea.
4. The writing. For the most part, I think the author did a fabulous job. I do wish they had capitalized on the dramatic and emotionally charged moments a little more (AKA deaths, fight scenes, injuries, etc). They were done in one sentence and felt like everything else so the emotional highs and lows were a little lacking for me. This ties into the romances because while I did like them, I didn't feel much for them beyond that.
The Final Verdict:
This is a very nicely written book, if a little on the basic side. The imagery and setting are marvelous and pair well with the wonderfully developed characters. However, I do think the emotional side of the writing could be improved and adding some extra, unexpected twists to the plot would do a great service to this novel.
3.5 stars
1. The plot. This is the element that suffers the most from cookie-cutter syndrome. There are some new things added in, though, that add a fascinating element to the plot. For example, one of the societies, the Union, is a utopia which I haven't read a lot of. The contrasting society (the old world, so to speak), I have read a lot of, unfortunately, and is quite prevalent in the dystopian genre. As for the plot line, it was a bit predictable (but again, I think this is partially because of my expansive experience with books that nothing can surprise me anymore). Girl grows up sheltered, finds out a terrible truth, learns about herself and changes and grows, things go wrong, etc, etc. This plot line, though a bit tired, was well executed, however, and kept me interested and reading (I read this in one shot).
2. The characters. I really liked the characters. Unlike plot lines, I find that characters are a bit easier to customize and personalize so each one is a little bit different than the next even if they do fit into archetypes. I really got to know the characters in this book well for such a short time frame (usually the first book is a bit low on character development because of the nature of being the first book in the series). Each was entirely unique and had their own story which I loved. The MC's friends were a little on the underdeveloped side though (although that's to be expected as they didn't play much of a role in this book).
3. The setting. One thing I think this author nailed is the setting and descriptions. Every environment is so detailed and I can picture everything in my mind. It doesn't get too crazy like Lord of the Rings but it's just enough so you can get a clear picture and not be bored if paragraphs of descriptions aren't your cup of tea.
4. The writing. For the most part, I think the author did a fabulous job. I do wish they had capitalized on the dramatic and emotionally charged moments a little more (AKA deaths, fight scenes, injuries, etc). They were done in one sentence and felt like everything else so the emotional highs and lows were a little lacking for me. This ties into the romances because while I did like them, I didn't feel much for them beyond that.
The Final Verdict:
This is a very nicely written book, if a little on the basic side. The imagery and setting are marvelous and pair well with the wonderfully developed characters. However, I do think the emotional side of the writing could be improved and adding some extra, unexpected twists to the plot would do a great service to this novel.
3.5 stars
March 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this. I like my dystopia with a little romance (surprise, surprise) and The Union satisfied this desire entirely. It has everything: action, adventure, political intrigue, hunky love interests.
Evan Taylor has always lived a sheltered life in the Union. She has family members high up in the government, and she's still in the public eye after the revelation that her father is a famous rock star. Add a step father who works in the fashion industry into the mix, and you have (for lack of better terms) one spoiled girl. Not to say that Evan is snotty, but she is sheltered and pampered. She's been told her entire life that there is no life in the Ruins. That all of the people that lived there were wiped out, and life is not sustainable.
She finds out that this isn't true at all when she is kidnapped by men who claim to be using her as a pawn against her new boyfriend, Bryce. Evan begins to wonder why Bryce would be involved in anything that dangerous. While in the Ruins, she meets Cyrus, a boy who changes her entire outlook on life itself. It's from him and his friends that she learns that maybe the Union, and the information that the Union feeds it's people, isn't everything that she thought it was.
The storyline really sucks you in, and you find yourself turning page after page. I really loved how much development that Evan's character goes through. Like I said before, she starts out as this sheltered, naive city girl. By the end of the book, she's hardened. She knows how to survive.
With great characters and an intriguing storyline, The Union is sure to draw you in and not let go. Without a doubt, I give this title five out of five stars.
Evan Taylor has always lived a sheltered life in the Union. She has family members high up in the government, and she's still in the public eye after the revelation that her father is a famous rock star. Add a step father who works in the fashion industry into the mix, and you have (for lack of better terms) one spoiled girl. Not to say that Evan is snotty, but she is sheltered and pampered. She's been told her entire life that there is no life in the Ruins. That all of the people that lived there were wiped out, and life is not sustainable.
She finds out that this isn't true at all when she is kidnapped by men who claim to be using her as a pawn against her new boyfriend, Bryce. Evan begins to wonder why Bryce would be involved in anything that dangerous. While in the Ruins, she meets Cyrus, a boy who changes her entire outlook on life itself. It's from him and his friends that she learns that maybe the Union, and the information that the Union feeds it's people, isn't everything that she thought it was.
The storyline really sucks you in, and you find yourself turning page after page. I really loved how much development that Evan's character goes through. Like I said before, she starts out as this sheltered, naive city girl. By the end of the book, she's hardened. She knows how to survive.
With great characters and an intriguing storyline, The Union is sure to draw you in and not let go. Without a doubt, I give this title five out of five stars.
July 3, 2015
I received this book free on a read and review basis.
For me this book started off strong and suspenseful but when the love triangle started things went downhill a bit.
I did get to like the main character Evan as she felt very realistic and I could relate to her many times during the book. The style of writing was also very good and suspenseful as well as the world building. I just wish there was less focus on the love triangle and romance side of the book as they were a bit boring and tedious. But I would recommend this book for anyone looking for something a little different in the dystopian genre.
I will read the second book soon as the ending for me left me wondering.
For me this book started off strong and suspenseful but when the love triangle started things went downhill a bit.
I did get to like the main character Evan as she felt very realistic and I could relate to her many times during the book. The style of writing was also very good and suspenseful as well as the world building. I just wish there was less focus on the love triangle and romance side of the book as they were a bit boring and tedious. But I would recommend this book for anyone looking for something a little different in the dystopian genre.
I will read the second book soon as the ending for me left me wondering.
October 9, 2014
This book caught my attention from the start. There's a strong female protagonist and believable characters. Wonderful debut novel and I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
February 13, 2022
This was a good series starter! The storyline is unique, I enjoyed some (and disliked other) characters, and I’m excited to check out the next book in the series to see how the series progresses.
April 9, 2015
**This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review**
I had a blast reading this young adult dystopian tale. I had never heard of Hernandez until I was sent this book for review. And I am so glad that I got the opportunity to read this fantastic story. I am officially a fan of T.H. Hernandez and I need more of this series.
It's been a while I've read a really good YA dystopian book and so I was pleasantly surprised when I found myself enthralled in this tale by the tenth page. There's something gripping about Hernandez's storytelling that made me want to keep reading and know more. More about the characters, about the plot, etc. I want immediately curious about that was going to happen. What on earth could this book have in store for me? Loads of stuff, that's what.
Now, to be honest, the world isn't that original to me. For the sake of explanation, I'm going to do the thing that I hate and give a comparison. The world in this book reminded me a bit of Lauren Oliver's Delirium, Veronica Roth's Divergent and Amy Engel's The Book of Ivy -- in the absolute BEST ways possible. I didn't feel like I'd read the story before, but I felt like Hernandez's setting was a nice homage to these books. I enjoyed it.
Now let's talk about these characters. I loved them. All of them. Even the ones that frustrated me to NO end *cough*Draya*cough*. The portrayal of these characters was so wonderfully done. I really enjoyed getting to know Evan. She was a tough girl. Spoiled, but tough. I loved her spunk, but her vulnerability as well. She didn't allow anyone to walk over her, which I was SO excited to see. I always get nervous when it comes to female characters, because there's this annoying habit of selling the female characters short of who they can potentially be -- strong, self-sufficient, and their own saviors. I appreciated Hernandez's approach with Evan. Don't get me wrong, Evan definitely gets herself into some interesting situations, and even if someone does help her out of them, she is not bound to them identity-wise. I respect that.
The male characters in this book were probably some of the best I've ever read. Marcus, Lucien, Cyrus, and even Bryce. They were all fantastically written. They're not the typical Type-A, cocky, I'm sexy and I know it guys. I genuinely enjoyed reading about them and experiencing their growth and development. Individually and with other characters throughout the book.
Evan struggles a lot through the books, with Cyrus and Bryce, with the Ruins and the Unions and just in general. She goes through quite a bit in this book, but Hernandez nailed it. I believed everything that Evan experienced. It felt real to me and it didn't feel too fast or too slow. I was invested in these character and in this story.
While the characters drove this story for me, the world is definitely compelling and by the end of the first book, you know you've only scratched the surface. I am intrigued. I'm excited. I want more of this story! A super fun, face paced, engaging read.
I had a blast reading this young adult dystopian tale. I had never heard of Hernandez until I was sent this book for review. And I am so glad that I got the opportunity to read this fantastic story. I am officially a fan of T.H. Hernandez and I need more of this series.
It's been a while I've read a really good YA dystopian book and so I was pleasantly surprised when I found myself enthralled in this tale by the tenth page. There's something gripping about Hernandez's storytelling that made me want to keep reading and know more. More about the characters, about the plot, etc. I want immediately curious about that was going to happen. What on earth could this book have in store for me? Loads of stuff, that's what.
Now, to be honest, the world isn't that original to me. For the sake of explanation, I'm going to do the thing that I hate and give a comparison. The world in this book reminded me a bit of Lauren Oliver's Delirium, Veronica Roth's Divergent and Amy Engel's The Book of Ivy -- in the absolute BEST ways possible. I didn't feel like I'd read the story before, but I felt like Hernandez's setting was a nice homage to these books. I enjoyed it.
Now let's talk about these characters. I loved them. All of them. Even the ones that frustrated me to NO end *cough*Draya*cough*. The portrayal of these characters was so wonderfully done. I really enjoyed getting to know Evan. She was a tough girl. Spoiled, but tough. I loved her spunk, but her vulnerability as well. She didn't allow anyone to walk over her, which I was SO excited to see. I always get nervous when it comes to female characters, because there's this annoying habit of selling the female characters short of who they can potentially be -- strong, self-sufficient, and their own saviors. I appreciated Hernandez's approach with Evan. Don't get me wrong, Evan definitely gets herself into some interesting situations, and even if someone does help her out of them, she is not bound to them identity-wise. I respect that.
The male characters in this book were probably some of the best I've ever read. Marcus, Lucien, Cyrus, and even Bryce. They were all fantastically written. They're not the typical Type-A, cocky, I'm sexy and I know it guys. I genuinely enjoyed reading about them and experiencing their growth and development. Individually and with other characters throughout the book.
Evan struggles a lot through the books, with Cyrus and Bryce, with the Ruins and the Unions and just in general. She goes through quite a bit in this book, but Hernandez nailed it. I believed everything that Evan experienced. It felt real to me and it didn't feel too fast or too slow. I was invested in these character and in this story.
While the characters drove this story for me, the world is definitely compelling and by the end of the first book, you know you've only scratched the surface. I am intrigued. I'm excited. I want more of this story! A super fun, face paced, engaging read.
October 18, 2014
The first installment of THE UNION, by T.H. Hernandez, is a unique, dystopian, coming-of-age story that follows Evan, a privileged, yet lost young adult who sets out on a quest to find herself and her purpose. Throughout the story, Evan encounters equal amounts of love and danger, and finds herself emerging as an unlikely hero, committed to saving her communities and those she loves, and ultimately, to saving the world.
Hernandez is a deft writer and her skills particularly shine when it comes to conveying romance. While two love interests are portrayed in this story, I swooned most strongly for sweet, serious Cyrus, who arguably owned the lion's share of story time. But the love between Evan and Cyrus seems that of soul mates--not love-at-first-sight, but one that begins with friendship and develops slowly, strengthening even as the two face difficult obstacles.
The second love interest, Bryce, is introduced at the beginning of the story, and reappears at the end. Questions have been raised as to Bryce's honesty and intentions, though he comes across as genuinely affectionate towards Evan and I could see him causing his own share of swooning if, as I suspect, he will get more story time in the next installment.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading more of this thrilling, heart-jerking tale...
Hernandez is a deft writer and her skills particularly shine when it comes to conveying romance. While two love interests are portrayed in this story, I swooned most strongly for sweet, serious Cyrus, who arguably owned the lion's share of story time. But the love between Evan and Cyrus seems that of soul mates--not love-at-first-sight, but one that begins with friendship and develops slowly, strengthening even as the two face difficult obstacles.
The second love interest, Bryce, is introduced at the beginning of the story, and reappears at the end. Questions have been raised as to Bryce's honesty and intentions, though he comes across as genuinely affectionate towards Evan and I could see him causing his own share of swooning if, as I suspect, he will get more story time in the next installment.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading more of this thrilling, heart-jerking tale...
November 11, 2014
Futuristic adventure/romance is not usually my thing, but futuristic adventure/romance as done by T.H. Hernandez won me over in The Union. Hernandez depicts play-by-play action sequences with the finesse of Michael Bay, keeping the reader right in the moment and on the edge of his or her seat. And the romance? Yeeeeaaah, she does that, too. Not only did she evoke reader crushes on BOTH potential love options for Evan, but some secondary male characters as well (what's not to love about a brawny family man?). To be honest, it took me a little while to wrap my head around Hernandez's conception of the future US of A, but in the end, that's because the world she's created doesn't fit neatly into our normal utopian or dystopian schemas...and that's a GOOD thing! This story's an original, and so is she. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 26, 2015
It's rare when I rush to bed to curl up with a book I love, and The Union had me fluffing up my pillows and even staying late in bed in the morning to read. The story is about a girl finding her place in this world and ends up outside the Union and her comfort zone and in the Ruins, think rural America in the 1800s with just a few more comforts but not many. The Union is a socialistic society while the Ruins are the old West.
When Ev is kidnapped and thrown into the wilds, she escapes and a family of orphans nurse her back to health. She falls in love with the simple life and a boy, loved Cyrus. A wonderful romance in a dystopian world with memorable characters. I recommend this book to any fan of YA.
The story has Romeo and Juliet overtones without author intrusion. Where's the next book in the series TH? Thank you for the wonderful read.
When Ev is kidnapped and thrown into the wilds, she escapes and a family of orphans nurse her back to health. She falls in love with the simple life and a boy, loved Cyrus. A wonderful romance in a dystopian world with memorable characters. I recommend this book to any fan of YA.
The story has Romeo and Juliet overtones without author intrusion. Where's the next book in the series TH? Thank you for the wonderful read.
January 23, 2015
A page turning book, set in a beautiful world. I could barely put it down. The writing, like the narrator, is straight forward and clear, managing to describe a detailed and unique future without slowing down our becoming heavy with words. Evan Taylor is truly likable despite her particular and extensive privileges. She is wonderfully straight forward and self aware, and acknowledges her limitations without being overwhelmingly self deprecating. And the world she lives in is even better, a fine balance between realistic and inventive, and beautiful in too many ways to count. The contrast in the Ruins, from dust-bowl like climate to the beautiful woods and waterfall is amazing, and it's juxtaposition to the IKEA like Union sets the stage perfectly. I can't wait for the next book.
December 16, 2015
**I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.**
What a great story!!! I gobbled this book up in no time because the urge to not put it down was too strong. To be honest, I can’t come up with anything negative to say because it flowed perfectly.
I can’t wait to see more of this series!
What a great story!!! I gobbled this book up in no time because the urge to not put it down was too strong. To be honest, I can’t come up with anything negative to say because it flowed perfectly.
I can’t wait to see more of this series!
Want to read
April 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/10/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
After global warming and a second civil war devastated the former United States, two different societies rose from the ashes – the Union, a towering high-tech utopia, hugging the perimeter of the continent, and the devastated, untamed midsection known as the Ruins.
Seventeen-year-old Evan Taylor has an easy, privileged life in the Union. What she doesn’t have is any idea what to do with the rest of her life. She only knows she wants to do something meaningful, to make a difference in the lives of others.
When she’s kidnapped and taken into the Ruins as a pawn in a dispute involving her boyfriend, Bryce, her ideal world is turned upside down. What she learns while in the Ruins shakes her faith in everything she’s ever known, from Bryce, to her family, and even the Union itself.
Now Evan must choose whether to stay with Cyrus, the sexy, resourceful survivor who believes she’s in the Ruins for a reason, or return to the only life she’s ever known. But when she stumbles upon a dangerous plot that threatens both worlds, her decision could tear her apart.
Blurb:
After global warming and a second civil war devastated the former United States, two different societies rose from the ashes – the Union, a towering high-tech utopia, hugging the perimeter of the continent, and the devastated, untamed midsection known as the Ruins.
Seventeen-year-old Evan Taylor has an easy, privileged life in the Union. What she doesn’t have is any idea what to do with the rest of her life. She only knows she wants to do something meaningful, to make a difference in the lives of others.
When she’s kidnapped and taken into the Ruins as a pawn in a dispute involving her boyfriend, Bryce, her ideal world is turned upside down. What she learns while in the Ruins shakes her faith in everything she’s ever known, from Bryce, to her family, and even the Union itself.
Now Evan must choose whether to stay with Cyrus, the sexy, resourceful survivor who believes she’s in the Ruins for a reason, or return to the only life she’s ever known. But when she stumbles upon a dangerous plot that threatens both worlds, her decision could tear her apart.
November 24, 2014
The Union by TH Hernandez is a book that I am so glad I read! This Young Adult novel is packed with an incredible story and an even better start to a new series you need to keep an eye on!
Evan is the perfect heroine of this story. She is the understated beauty, kind, and intelligent, yet headstrong and always running head first into situations. She combines the innocence of youth with the responsibility and expectation of adulthood that will set the course of her future. As she takes steps to find out her purpose in life, she is plunged into a world of chaos and new life that she never expected to find. When we first meet Evan she is trying to make a decision about her future, determining if she wants to work for her step-father, which is expected, or to carve a new path for herself. After being a victim of extreme and brutal bullying, she decides to take a leap of faith and find something more that will make her heart come alive. She decides to the L Train with her two best friends for an adventure across the Union to visit her biological father. When she is on the train, she sees Bryce, her crush from school, and they begin a fast and furious relationship. Before she can decide what she truly wants with Bryce and how she feels about him, Evan is kidnapped and smuggled outside of the Union into the Ruins where everything changes. It is in the Ruins that she discovers the government was keeping secrets about the world outside the Union walls. Upon escaping from her captors, a gutsy yet ill-advised plan, she is left wandering the wastelands. Near death, she is found by a family in the Ruins and nursed back to health. This family changes Evan’s life in more ways than she would have ever expected. She sees a true depiction of family, love, and something more.
Hernandez creates a world in the Union that is not too far off from our own and a very realistic and plausible future for our world. The second Civil War that created a new society, leaving the world in two parts, the Union and the Ruins, allows us a bit of introspection to wonder what would happen is the world ended up in this predicament. When the story begins, it appears to be just another story about a young girl trying to decide her own fate, yet as you continue to read you see things that hints to a different world allowing you to adjust to something new. As you continue reading through the first few chapters, you begin to see a new world unveiled before your eyes. It is not an overwhelming experience to try and understand foreign concepts but instead you are taken by the hand and guided through a new world that you can connect with, seeing something beautiful that you never would have expected to find.
One of the lessons that the reader learns from this story is that there is always two sides to the world you see. It is not always simple. There is truth within the Union but also many lies. Evan must take a step back and evaluate what she has been told and align it with what she is seeing and experiencing. There is value to both life in the Union and in the Ruins. The theme of family is a major element within this story. Family portrayals are one of my favorite things about different books and this one has multiple types. Evan comes from a broken home. Her father left her mother when she was pregnant, never making contact with Evan. Her mother claimed that her father was dead. When she remarried, she convinced her husband to play along. When Evan was 12 she learned the truth and it destroyed her young heart. She has step siblings she cannot connect with. There is strain on every relationship because of the lies and betrayal. Evan only wants somewhere to truly belong and her family does not feel like that place. When she is rescued by the family in the Ruins, she is given a glimpse into a healthy functioning family by choice. She sees the love of parental type figures, the love of siblings, and friends. It is a family that has chosen to be there for each other supportive in the harsh realities of life.
Young love is blooming in this book and it was lovely. Evan and Cyrus are the perfect match. They click in ways that are amazing considering their lives are so opposite. Their friendship becomes something more and their love grows deep and strong. It is a selfless love, one that puts others ahead of themselves. There is a constant uncertainty to their future. The sweet moments are precious and their love affair is the perfect combination hot and adorable. They must learn to navigate their new relationship when they are uncertain. Will Evan go or stay? But when shocking truths about life outside their control, they must sacrifice anything and everything to protect the ones they love.
I am already looking forward to the second book and cannot wait to see where TH Hernandez takes the adventure. This is a story of finding yourself and family; a story of love and doing what is right, following your heart no matter the cost.
Evan is the perfect heroine of this story. She is the understated beauty, kind, and intelligent, yet headstrong and always running head first into situations. She combines the innocence of youth with the responsibility and expectation of adulthood that will set the course of her future. As she takes steps to find out her purpose in life, she is plunged into a world of chaos and new life that she never expected to find. When we first meet Evan she is trying to make a decision about her future, determining if she wants to work for her step-father, which is expected, or to carve a new path for herself. After being a victim of extreme and brutal bullying, she decides to take a leap of faith and find something more that will make her heart come alive. She decides to the L Train with her two best friends for an adventure across the Union to visit her biological father. When she is on the train, she sees Bryce, her crush from school, and they begin a fast and furious relationship. Before she can decide what she truly wants with Bryce and how she feels about him, Evan is kidnapped and smuggled outside of the Union into the Ruins where everything changes. It is in the Ruins that she discovers the government was keeping secrets about the world outside the Union walls. Upon escaping from her captors, a gutsy yet ill-advised plan, she is left wandering the wastelands. Near death, she is found by a family in the Ruins and nursed back to health. This family changes Evan’s life in more ways than she would have ever expected. She sees a true depiction of family, love, and something more.
Hernandez creates a world in the Union that is not too far off from our own and a very realistic and plausible future for our world. The second Civil War that created a new society, leaving the world in two parts, the Union and the Ruins, allows us a bit of introspection to wonder what would happen is the world ended up in this predicament. When the story begins, it appears to be just another story about a young girl trying to decide her own fate, yet as you continue to read you see things that hints to a different world allowing you to adjust to something new. As you continue reading through the first few chapters, you begin to see a new world unveiled before your eyes. It is not an overwhelming experience to try and understand foreign concepts but instead you are taken by the hand and guided through a new world that you can connect with, seeing something beautiful that you never would have expected to find.
One of the lessons that the reader learns from this story is that there is always two sides to the world you see. It is not always simple. There is truth within the Union but also many lies. Evan must take a step back and evaluate what she has been told and align it with what she is seeing and experiencing. There is value to both life in the Union and in the Ruins. The theme of family is a major element within this story. Family portrayals are one of my favorite things about different books and this one has multiple types. Evan comes from a broken home. Her father left her mother when she was pregnant, never making contact with Evan. Her mother claimed that her father was dead. When she remarried, she convinced her husband to play along. When Evan was 12 she learned the truth and it destroyed her young heart. She has step siblings she cannot connect with. There is strain on every relationship because of the lies and betrayal. Evan only wants somewhere to truly belong and her family does not feel like that place. When she is rescued by the family in the Ruins, she is given a glimpse into a healthy functioning family by choice. She sees the love of parental type figures, the love of siblings, and friends. It is a family that has chosen to be there for each other supportive in the harsh realities of life.
Young love is blooming in this book and it was lovely. Evan and Cyrus are the perfect match. They click in ways that are amazing considering their lives are so opposite. Their friendship becomes something more and their love grows deep and strong. It is a selfless love, one that puts others ahead of themselves. There is a constant uncertainty to their future. The sweet moments are precious and their love affair is the perfect combination hot and adorable. They must learn to navigate their new relationship when they are uncertain. Will Evan go or stay? But when shocking truths about life outside their control, they must sacrifice anything and everything to protect the ones they love.
I am already looking forward to the second book and cannot wait to see where TH Hernandez takes the adventure. This is a story of finding yourself and family; a story of love and doing what is right, following your heart no matter the cost.
January 22, 2016
I absolutely loved The Union, the first book in the series of the same name. I read this book back when I was reading and reviewing book 2, The Ruins, for the blog tour back in June of 2015. At the time I was focused on the tour for book 2, so I never wrote a review for book 1, now that I am looking back, writing a review without all of my feelings and knowledge is harder than I thought it would be, but I will do my best, but it will be shorter than my usual reviews, which in no way says anything negative about this book!
The Union started out fast and kept that pace going throughout this adventurous and creative look at the possible future of the USA. We are following a teenage girl named Evan who is about to embark on her summer break from school to try and figure out what she wants to do with her life, her future career. She somehow gets thrown into a situation that ends up with her being kidnapped and taken into the dead zone of the country, lovingly called the Ruins, which can’t be good. The Union folks are taught that no one and no life can survive in the Ruins and Evan is not only being held captive by a group of scary men, but she also can’t imagine what is going to happen to her out here in the wild. Everything she has ever known or been taught is in great juxtaposition with everything she is witnessing while she struggles to survive in the Ruins.
I absolutely loved Evan. She was strong and willing to take great risks even though she was so scared. Actually, all of the characters were so well crafted, that this story was bright and vivid in my mind and I could literally envision the entire thing. Bryce and Cyrus are two swoon worthy boys that I wouldn’t mind having to chose from! You know you are reading a good book when it is so hard for me to disconnect from the characters and I was so excited when I finished The Union that I had The Ruins to read next!
The Union has everything I need in a good book; a well-built futuristic world, political intrigue, action, adventure and love. I mean what are we doing if there isn’t love in our world! It is fast-paced and I couldn’t get enough of this story! If you like YA and/or Dystopian, I think you will devour this series!
*I was given an earc for an honest review back in June of 2015; all my opinions are my own and not influenced by anyone else.*
The Union started out fast and kept that pace going throughout this adventurous and creative look at the possible future of the USA. We are following a teenage girl named Evan who is about to embark on her summer break from school to try and figure out what she wants to do with her life, her future career. She somehow gets thrown into a situation that ends up with her being kidnapped and taken into the dead zone of the country, lovingly called the Ruins, which can’t be good. The Union folks are taught that no one and no life can survive in the Ruins and Evan is not only being held captive by a group of scary men, but she also can’t imagine what is going to happen to her out here in the wild. Everything she has ever known or been taught is in great juxtaposition with everything she is witnessing while she struggles to survive in the Ruins.
I absolutely loved Evan. She was strong and willing to take great risks even though she was so scared. Actually, all of the characters were so well crafted, that this story was bright and vivid in my mind and I could literally envision the entire thing. Bryce and Cyrus are two swoon worthy boys that I wouldn’t mind having to chose from! You know you are reading a good book when it is so hard for me to disconnect from the characters and I was so excited when I finished The Union that I had The Ruins to read next!
The Union has everything I need in a good book; a well-built futuristic world, political intrigue, action, adventure and love. I mean what are we doing if there isn’t love in our world! It is fast-paced and I couldn’t get enough of this story! If you like YA and/or Dystopian, I think you will devour this series!
*I was given an earc for an honest review back in June of 2015; all my opinions are my own and not influenced by anyone else.*
November 27, 2014
This book isn’t quite what I was expecting. From reading the synopsis, I was honestly expecting more… Divergent. Ya know? Something that’s been done before. The thing is… this isn’t Divergent. It isn’t Hunger Games, or any other dystopian YA book out there. It is its own story, and Hernandez has developed her own style of writing. Enjoy it for what it is. Unique.
The Union won’t be for everyone. It’s not crazy exciting or fast paced, but I don’t think it needs to be. It is almost entirely character driven, so it’s a good thing that the characters are really interesting. They’re flawed and dynamic, and very easy to relate to. Be forewarned: there is a fair amount of teen angst, but nothing I wasn’t able to work past.
There is a slow build to the chemistry. Very clean, no swears and no sex. This is more like a sweet-ish romance. Don’t compare it to something darker, because that will simply attract the wrong kind of readers. I am very much #TeamCyrus, but there is more story yet to be published. Plenty of time to change my mind. I wasn’t happy about the choices that Evan had to make, but under the circumstances I can live with them. ;)
The world building is really subtle and well done. I had a hard time imagining what the cities looked like, how the buildings are stacked. I love the very concept though! I’m really excited for where this book could be going as a series, and I look forward to revisiting where Evan’s story left off!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The Union won’t be for everyone. It’s not crazy exciting or fast paced, but I don’t think it needs to be. It is almost entirely character driven, so it’s a good thing that the characters are really interesting. They’re flawed and dynamic, and very easy to relate to. Be forewarned: there is a fair amount of teen angst, but nothing I wasn’t able to work past.
There is a slow build to the chemistry. Very clean, no swears and no sex. This is more like a sweet-ish romance. Don’t compare it to something darker, because that will simply attract the wrong kind of readers. I am very much #TeamCyrus, but there is more story yet to be published. Plenty of time to change my mind. I wasn’t happy about the choices that Evan had to make, but under the circumstances I can live with them. ;)
The world building is really subtle and well done. I had a hard time imagining what the cities looked like, how the buildings are stacked. I love the very concept though! I’m really excited for where this book could be going as a series, and I look forward to revisiting where Evan’s story left off!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2014
I would like to thank the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Doing so does not sway my review in any way.
A coming of age story, where the main character is trying to find her way in life but also finds more than she bargained for. Yes, not a unique story in itself, but the author took that basic notion and created a full and lush adventure with it. Readers will have to hold on to their seats tight, because there is action of some sort throughout the majority of the book.
Some of the details of how the Union just didn't seem to work itself out right. There were times I had to reread a line to try to understand what was ;being described for me. The romance seemed way too quick and extreme also, but how everything is set up, if the author had drawn it out longer it would probably have felt like a slow, boring read.
This book is a great dystopian read. The Union itself doesn't seem like such a horrible government, especially compared to others in the genre. Heck, I would love the idea of going into an apprenticeship after high school instead of going in to college. So much more is learned hands on than is learned through books and testing.
A good, strong beginning to what seems is going to be a great adventure series. I can't wait to see where the author takes her characters and what read more about them. This is a series that anyone who enjoys a story with romance, a strong female lead and our future world will dive right in to and come up for breath once the last word is read.
A coming of age story, where the main character is trying to find her way in life but also finds more than she bargained for. Yes, not a unique story in itself, but the author took that basic notion and created a full and lush adventure with it. Readers will have to hold on to their seats tight, because there is action of some sort throughout the majority of the book.
Some of the details of how the Union just didn't seem to work itself out right. There were times I had to reread a line to try to understand what was ;being described for me. The romance seemed way too quick and extreme also, but how everything is set up, if the author had drawn it out longer it would probably have felt like a slow, boring read.
This book is a great dystopian read. The Union itself doesn't seem like such a horrible government, especially compared to others in the genre. Heck, I would love the idea of going into an apprenticeship after high school instead of going in to college. So much more is learned hands on than is learned through books and testing.
A good, strong beginning to what seems is going to be a great adventure series. I can't wait to see where the author takes her characters and what read more about them. This is a series that anyone who enjoys a story with romance, a strong female lead and our future world will dive right in to and come up for breath once the last word is read.
November 9, 2014
T.H. Hernandez creates a rich world set over 100 years into the future, after a second civil war and damaging climate change. I was quickly drawn into the story of Evan, a high school graduate trying to figure out what to do with her life. Evan enjoys a comfortable high-tech, sustainable life in The Union - what the United States has become since the war. Everyone has roof top gardens and takes public transportation. But over the summer following high school, she discovers not everyone lives as comfortably as she does and most of what she thought she knew about history and her government is lie.
Evan ends up caught between two worlds, both of which are flawed, but also ideal in their own way. I really enjoyed the pace of the book and couldn't wait to get to the end to find out what Evan was going to do. Be warned, though, this book is part of a planned series so although the main crisis is resolved, you will be left wanting to know what happens next.
Evan ends up caught between two worlds, both of which are flawed, but also ideal in their own way. I really enjoyed the pace of the book and couldn't wait to get to the end to find out what Evan was going to do. Be warned, though, this book is part of a planned series so although the main crisis is resolved, you will be left wanting to know what happens next.
October 17, 2014
The Union sucked me in with the first sentence. In fact, I read it so quickly after that that I had to go back and read it again before reviewing.
Evan Taylor, the "heroine" of this tale, is a well-educated, somewhat wealthy child of the Union, where children are encouraged to choose their career and enter an apprenticeship right out of high school. Unsure of her inclination, she heads out with friends for the summer to think it through. What follows is nothing like what she'd expected. I won't ruin the story.
The author has an intuitive sense of the inner life of young men and women, part child, part adult. The characters are easily visualized from her descriptions and their personalities are presented fully and cleanly. The story flows smoothly and logically, though not without surprises.
The story may have been written for youth but, as a woman long past that designation, I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
Evan Taylor, the "heroine" of this tale, is a well-educated, somewhat wealthy child of the Union, where children are encouraged to choose their career and enter an apprenticeship right out of high school. Unsure of her inclination, she heads out with friends for the summer to think it through. What follows is nothing like what she'd expected. I won't ruin the story.
The author has an intuitive sense of the inner life of young men and women, part child, part adult. The characters are easily visualized from her descriptions and their personalities are presented fully and cleanly. The story flows smoothly and logically, though not without surprises.
The story may have been written for youth but, as a woman long past that designation, I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
November 6, 2014
This isn't normally the genre of book I would read, YA/dystopian future, but I do like futuristic novels so I gave it a shot. I have to say I'm so glad I did, I couldn't put it down. For T.H's first novel, it is exceptionally well written, the plot has just enough angst, action to not be overly angry, but also not dull and boring. I cannot wait for the next book to come out. Evan is a great main character, a young heroine who takes care of herself, and takes charge, so refreshing to see that, a greet roll model or young girls to emulate/look up to.
I have to admit about 1/2 through this book I was trying to imagine how this could be made into a movie, I'm still not sure, but I'm not that kind of imaginative.
I have to admit about 1/2 through this book I was trying to imagine how this could be made into a movie, I'm still not sure, but I'm not that kind of imaginative.
October 11, 2014
If you like futuristic adventure mixed in with young adult romance, then this is the book for you. TH Hernandez presents two new worlds – the environmentally conscious utopian society of the Union and the wild, raw beauty of the Ruins. In the process of finding herself, Evan is torn between two societies and two boys. As the only person who cares enough about both the Union and the Ruins she finds herself caught in the middle of a conflict that only intensifies as she fights for her survival and falls in love. This is a book I will keep on my shelf and read over and over. The story is beautifully told with depth and emotion. A stunning debut novel.
October 22, 2014
I'm such a fan of this book that I created an account on goodreads just so I could recommend it! I love the unique first person present tense choice by the author and it kept me right in the moment. The story immediately captured my attention; I was hooked and couldn't put it down until I finished it. Now I'm left hanging in anticipation for the next book!! I've read the popular books in this genre and this one holds up right along with them. I can already picture it as a fabulous movie. Highly recommend! #TeamCyrus
December 11, 2014
I loved everything about this book. The opening scene set the stage for the rest of the novel. It was passionate and descriptive and such a well balanced read. So many times I lost myself in the story, feeling like I was there with the characters. The book has a lot of well thought-out "futuristic" elements that I found myself thinking "how cool would that be!" I can't wait to read Book Two!
dnf
November 14, 2014I'm really confused. I though this is gonna be a kick ass YA dystopia. This is just about a girl torn between two guys who are both hot *eye roll* and they live in a ~different world~ Pffffft. I swear, there was like 2-3 chapters dedicated to her date. Can't even survive a chapter without mentioning the boy's name. Sigh.....
November 22, 2014
This was one if those books where I wasn’t sure if I would finish it after a few pages. But turns out I loved the book. I really didn��t care for Evan in the first few chapters, she seemed very immature and annoying and every time she came close to Bryce her brain seemed to shut off.
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/unio...
You can find my full review here:
http://snoopydoosbookreviews.com/unio...
October 11, 2014
Totally enjoyed this book. The plot kept me turning the pages. Although at times the main character could try the patience of a saint she remained lovable because of her loyalty to her friends. Sometimes her choices were not well thought out she always strived to improve and do her best for others.
January 24, 2016
See this review in its natural environment, Dani Reviews Things.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for a review. This does not affect my opinion.
The Union is a romantic dystopian set in what's become of the United States after a second civil war. Unsure of what to do with her life, impulsive Union citizen Evan goes on a cross-country luxury train journey with her friends to find herself, only to be kidnapped by citizens of the Ruins. This unfortunate event changes Evan's life, setting her on course to discover love and purpose...and possibly the end of both the Ruins and the Union. I really enjoyed the characters, definitely falling for Cyrus in the ruins while also relating to Evan. The pacing was a bit confusing at times, but the flow worked for me. That being said, I think some readers might find it too slow in places, at which point I'd remind them that this is very much a romantic dystopian and to chill out. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, The Ruins.
Best and worst
The best: Cyrus! <3
The worst: There were jumps into the future that confused me at times.
Snapshot
First impressions
Did someone say post-civil war American dystopia? Because that seems to be my new thing. I loved reading The V Girl by Mya Robarts, so I had high hopes for this baby. Plus, the covers for the series are really different, and I like them!
Break it down
Who
The Ruins was narrated in first person by Evan...who was a girl, ok? Also, she had red hair, like 80% of YA heroines. She wasn't sure what to do with her life, but she did know that she didn't want to work in fashion for her stepdad. I found Evan extremely relatable in her indecision, sense of right and wrong and impulsiveness.
One thing I really liked about Evan at the start of the book was that she didn't pull that whole "I ain't no snitch" card after getting beaten up. It drives me bonkers when people get hurt and then clam up when asked about who did it. If you attack me, I promise that I'll take you down (the legal way).
Evan liked Bryce. Bryce, it turns out, liked Evan. Except Bryce was shady as hell. In the beginning, I was seriously conflicted; on the one hand, I couldn't trust him and his little side act, but then he could also be quite sweet and romantic. Almost too romantic. Cue alarm bells. Basically, Bryce isn't who he first appears to be, and he's not who he then appears to be either. IT'S ALL VERY CONFUSING.
But then Evan ends up in the Ruins and is rescued by a 'family' of children and young adults, banded together after losing their families. Some of the younger children blended together in my mind (there were more of them than I could keep straight in my head), but the older members took root in my consciousness...and my heart. I absolutely adored Sonia, sweet and caring as she was. Draya was the bitch of the group, very vocal in her distrust of Evan.
Of course, the star of the group was Cyrus, reformed playboy with his old skills intact: charm and warming good looks. He was calm, diplomatic and adorably thoughtful, and I most definitely fell for him.
I'm going through a phase where I'm relating all of the book characters to the cast of The 100, as that's my current binge watch. I'd put Cyrus down as the Finn type (I love Finn), Lucien (Cyrus' big brother and the leader of the family) as a more moral Bellamy and Draya as Octavia (except that in this book, Lucien and Draya are a couple, not siblings!). Evan...well, Evan is a bit of a mashup between Clarke and Clary from the Shadowhunter universe, taking Clary's propensity to freak the hell out (and her red hair).What
The first quarter of the book consists of Evan finishing up school, not knowing what to do with her life – unlike everyone around her. After a violent encounter with the "mean girls" at school, she decides to hop on a train and follow her best friends to the west coast, hoping to find herself along the way. Lo and behold, her high school crush and head mean girl's ex-boyfriend is on the train, and the two hit it off. While this first part of the book wasn't filled with action and excitement, I was never really bored, and I thought it was
...which gets her into a world of trouble. Soon (i.e. from around 25%), Evan finds herself in the Ruins, which she legitimately flips out about. That's another thing I liked about her. She really struggled to come to terms with what she was seeing, as she'd been taught her whole life that the Ruins were dangerous to living things. She struck me as clever, but she was still young and freaking out, reacting in a believable way to the people she met.
The Union said the Ruins can't sustain life, that no one has lived out here for over a century. They lied about that, it's possible they lied about everything.
My world's been ripped apart and thrown in my face like bitter confetti. The Union I know doesn't exist and never really did. How am I supposed to go home when home is a fantasy?
Let's talk about pacing of the plot for a second. This might be something that puts some people off. This book isn't non-stop action and intrigue. I'd say, the first 20% is about setting the scene for Evan's first-world-problems good life, then 10% of kidnapping, 40% of character and relationship development in the Ruins, before then getting into the serious, world-changing stuff at around the 70% mark. Some readers might find that too slow, but for the most part, it worked for me.Admittedly, there were some unexpected jumps in time, and I was a little confused when her kidnappers didn't react to her trying to get back to the Union like I expected them to. However, ultimately, the story did keep going, and I was hooked enough that I wanted to do nothing but keep reading, including just past 3am.
The ending was a bit too rushed and easy, but at least it didn't end on a cliffhanger. I'm eager to read the next book to see how the story continues and if Evan and Cyrus can have an HEA (though I might have to wait until book 3), but I'm not dying to read it, if you know what I mean.
Oh, and a warning: people die. Prepare to be upset.
Where & when
The book is over a hundred years in the future, following a second American civil war. Citizens of the Union believe that the centre of the United States was devastated by global warming and war, leaving it uninhabitable. Instead, they have built up their cities around the edges of the country, doing away with fossil fuels and creating an idyllic society with structure, free education, free healthcare and technology.
Meanwhile, those left in the Ruins live like the early settlers in makeshift communities, trading for goods and using waterfalls for showers. They had no electricity or running water, and a lot of people didn't know how to read. There were some gaps (like what they did for toilets), but for the most part, the world-building was actually very engrossing!
How (was it written)
The book was a little slow to begin with, but Hernandez hit her stride once Evan entered the Ruins. Hernandez's style was very easy and engaging to read, though some weird punctuation usage did throw me off from time to time.
Why (you should read it)
Overall, The Union seems to mash-up elements of dystopia and contemporary, so if these are your things, then I'd recommend the book, especially if you don't mind a slow burn and some intense but pretty PG romance.
April 3, 2021
Seventeen-year-old Evan Taylor has just finished high school and needs to get away for a while before she begins the next chapter in her life. Evan and her two best friends decide to go on a trip. Evan hopes that she can find out who she is and what she wants to do with her life on this trip.
Evan and her friends are at a restaurant when she has to go to the bathroom. On her way out Evan feels an arm slide around her waist. Evan tries to fight off her attackers I mean she gives it her all but before she can get away a hand with a cloth in it slams her in the face and the next thing she knows she wakes up in the Ruins.
Evan has lived her whole life inside the walls of the Union. The Union was created after the United States was devastated by a second civil war and global warming. After the war, everyone fled to the coast, and a new government was formed into what is now known as the Union.
Evan has lived a really good life in the Union with all her needs taken care of and never wanting for anything. Everyone in the Union has been taught all their lives that no one lives in the Ruins as no one could survive in a barren wasteland.
When Evan wakes up in the Ruins she soon learns that what she has been taught is all wrong as they are survivors in the Ruins. People who have lived there all their lives. People who were born in the Ruins.
After meeting some of the people who live in the Ruins and getting to know them especially this one guy Cyrus Evan has a tough choice to make. After she learns that someone is planning something that could prove to be disastrous for both worlds, the Union and the Ruins she has to decide if she wants to stay with her new friends in the Ruin or return to her friends and family in the Union.
I love dystopian worlds and once I picked up The Union I couldn’t put it down again until I had read the last page. I was drawn in from the beginning with a utopia world I don’t read many books set in a utopia world but I would like to. I would like to have known more about this utopia world and the dystopian world as well. I can’t wait to read more from this world.
While I was reading The Union I could see it all in my head as if I was watching a movie. The writing was so descriptive that I could see the clean world of the Union and I could also see the barren wasteland of the Ruin. The world-building was some of the best writing I have ever seen or read.
I could just picture myself right there with all the characters looking over their shoulders or standing right beside them as if I was a part of their world. The characters just seem to come alive on the page and I felt as if I had known them all my life.
I would recommend The Union to anyone who is into dystopian, futurist stories with a little romance on the side.
Evan and her friends are at a restaurant when she has to go to the bathroom. On her way out Evan feels an arm slide around her waist. Evan tries to fight off her attackers I mean she gives it her all but before she can get away a hand with a cloth in it slams her in the face and the next thing she knows she wakes up in the Ruins.
Evan has lived her whole life inside the walls of the Union. The Union was created after the United States was devastated by a second civil war and global warming. After the war, everyone fled to the coast, and a new government was formed into what is now known as the Union.
Evan has lived a really good life in the Union with all her needs taken care of and never wanting for anything. Everyone in the Union has been taught all their lives that no one lives in the Ruins as no one could survive in a barren wasteland.
When Evan wakes up in the Ruins she soon learns that what she has been taught is all wrong as they are survivors in the Ruins. People who have lived there all their lives. People who were born in the Ruins.
After meeting some of the people who live in the Ruins and getting to know them especially this one guy Cyrus Evan has a tough choice to make. After she learns that someone is planning something that could prove to be disastrous for both worlds, the Union and the Ruins she has to decide if she wants to stay with her new friends in the Ruin or return to her friends and family in the Union.
I love dystopian worlds and once I picked up The Union I couldn’t put it down again until I had read the last page. I was drawn in from the beginning with a utopia world I don’t read many books set in a utopia world but I would like to. I would like to have known more about this utopia world and the dystopian world as well. I can’t wait to read more from this world.
While I was reading The Union I could see it all in my head as if I was watching a movie. The writing was so descriptive that I could see the clean world of the Union and I could also see the barren wasteland of the Ruin. The world-building was some of the best writing I have ever seen or read.
I could just picture myself right there with all the characters looking over their shoulders or standing right beside them as if I was a part of their world. The characters just seem to come alive on the page and I felt as if I had known them all my life.
I would recommend The Union to anyone who is into dystopian, futurist stories with a little romance on the side.
February 25, 2022
4.5 stars
It’s been a while since I’ve read any post-apocalyptic and/or dystopian books, mainly because I guess you could say I got obsessive. Okay, I greatly overindulged to the point of being saturated 😄. Anyway, this one piqued my interest, especially since I was being offered the audiobook, and I’m SO glad I decided to join the tour.
Evan’s story is downright enthralling, aided by the author’s vivid worldbuilding so that I understood from nearly the beginning what her young life is like and the restrictions placed upon the populace by the powers that be…and some of the consequences of flouting those restrictions. If there was anything I still don’t quite get it’s why the teens go on this sort of walkabout in the first place but that doesn’t really matter.
Shortly after Evan goes on her trip with her best friends Lisa and Colin, later meeting up with her crush, Bryce, Evan is kidnapped by a pair of very unsavory characters and her real adventure begins. Eventually, a new dude, Cyrus, enters the scene along with his family and she begins to learn the truth, the REAL truth, about the Ruins, the supposedly barren area outside of the Union where only the dregs of America’s former society live. This is when Ms. Hernandez’s story truly takes off and I was listening to my audiobook as often and long as I could. And then comes a whopper of a twist, not entirely believable but exciting nonetheless.
Speaking of the audiobook, narrator Alexa Elmy was an excellent choice. Her voice is young enough that she can easily carry off teen girl voices but mature enough that she does a more than decent job with males. I couldn’t always differentiate between characters but, no matter, the prose always let me know who was speaking.
So, thanks to an intriguing story and very engaging characters, I thoroughly enjoyed my return to this subgenre and, while there are occasional flaws, I’m hooked again. Can’t wait to listen to the next book!
It’s been a while since I’ve read any post-apocalyptic and/or dystopian books, mainly because I guess you could say I got obsessive. Okay, I greatly overindulged to the point of being saturated 😄. Anyway, this one piqued my interest, especially since I was being offered the audiobook, and I’m SO glad I decided to join the tour.
Evan’s story is downright enthralling, aided by the author’s vivid worldbuilding so that I understood from nearly the beginning what her young life is like and the restrictions placed upon the populace by the powers that be…and some of the consequences of flouting those restrictions. If there was anything I still don’t quite get it’s why the teens go on this sort of walkabout in the first place but that doesn’t really matter.
Shortly after Evan goes on her trip with her best friends Lisa and Colin, later meeting up with her crush, Bryce, Evan is kidnapped by a pair of very unsavory characters and her real adventure begins. Eventually, a new dude, Cyrus, enters the scene along with his family and she begins to learn the truth, the REAL truth, about the Ruins, the supposedly barren area outside of the Union where only the dregs of America’s former society live. This is when Ms. Hernandez’s story truly takes off and I was listening to my audiobook as often and long as I could. And then comes a whopper of a twist, not entirely believable but exciting nonetheless.
Speaking of the audiobook, narrator Alexa Elmy was an excellent choice. Her voice is young enough that she can easily carry off teen girl voices but mature enough that she does a more than decent job with males. I couldn’t always differentiate between characters but, no matter, the prose always let me know who was speaking.
So, thanks to an intriguing story and very engaging characters, I thoroughly enjoyed my return to this subgenre and, while there are occasional flaws, I’m hooked again. Can’t wait to listen to the next book!
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