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Merged
Seven of our country’s most gifted teens will become Nobels, hosts for the implantation of brilliant Mentor minds, in an effort to accelerate human progress.
But as the line between what’s possible and what’s right, draws ever blurrier, the teens discover everything has a cost.
Scientists have created an evolved form of living known as Merged Consciousness, and sixteen-year-old Lake finds herself unable to merge with her Mentor.
Lake, the Nobel for Chemistry and Orfyn, the Nobel for Art, are two from among the inaugural class of Nobels, and with the best intent and motivation. But when Stryker, the Nobel for Peace, makes them question the motivation of the scientists behind the program, their world begins to unravel.
As the Nobels work to uncover the dark secrets of the program’s origins, everyone's a suspect and no one can be trusted, not even the other Nobels.
As the Mentors begin to take over the bodies and minds of the Nobels, Lake and Orfyn must find a way to regain control before they lose all semblance or memory of their former selves.
But as the line between what’s possible and what’s right, draws ever blurrier, the teens discover everything has a cost.
Scientists have created an evolved form of living known as Merged Consciousness, and sixteen-year-old Lake finds herself unable to merge with her Mentor.
Lake, the Nobel for Chemistry and Orfyn, the Nobel for Art, are two from among the inaugural class of Nobels, and with the best intent and motivation. But when Stryker, the Nobel for Peace, makes them question the motivation of the scientists behind the program, their world begins to unravel.
As the Nobels work to uncover the dark secrets of the program’s origins, everyone's a suspect and no one can be trusted, not even the other Nobels.
As the Mentors begin to take over the bodies and minds of the Nobels, Lake and Orfyn must find a way to regain control before they lose all semblance or memory of their former selves.
300 pages, Paperback
First published September 17, 2019
1 person is currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
Jim Kroepfl
1 book19 followersJim and Stephanie Kroepfl are a husband-and-wife team who write YA novels and stories of mystery and adventure from their cabin in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Their debut novel, Merged, was released by Month9Books on September 17, 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 18, 2019
Merged has the right amount of mystery and science fiction to keep you hooked on every page.
Imagine a world where great minds can be given a second chance to discover more. More literature/chemistry/art. A group of teens are given the opportunity to change their fate with the help of a matched genius.
Kevin is a street artist. His passion for art is brought to life in his paintings. He has a gift and a love for adapting former artists work. He lives in the orphanage with the nuns. He’s a good kid at heart but he’s destined to cause trouble with his graffiti. The program adopts him and offers him a future which could change his life.
Lake is merged with a chemistry novel. Together they want to research diseases.
Stryker is given his merge with peace but he struggles to settle into the process.
Each member of the team offer something different but the centre they are staying at holds too many secrets.
There is a little romance but this is mainly about the concept of sharing your dreams. Some members get better than others and the story keeps you guessing right to the end.
This is an interesting concept and an addictive story. I really enjoyed this book. 5 out of 5. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’ve joined the blog tout my date is the 20th of September. I hope for more in this series.
This is a tricky book to review as a lot is going on in this book and I don’t want to give too much away.
Imagine a world where great minds can be given a second chance to discover more. More literature/chemistry/art. A group of teens are given the opportunity to change their fate with the help of a matched genius.
Kevin is a street artist. His passion for art is brought to life in his paintings. He has a gift and a love for adapting former artists work. He lives in the orphanage with the nuns. He’s a good kid at heart but he’s destined to cause trouble with his graffiti. The program adopts him and offers him a future which could change his life.
Lake is merged with a chemistry novel. Together they want to research diseases.
Stryker is given his merge with peace but he struggles to settle into the process.
Each member of the team offer something different but the centre they are staying at holds too many secrets.
There is a little romance but this is mainly about the concept of sharing your dreams. Some members get better than others and the story keeps you guessing right to the end.
This is an interesting concept and an addictive story. I really enjoyed this book. 5 out of 5. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’ve joined the blog tout my date is the 20th of September. I hope for more in this series.
This is a tricky book to review as a lot is going on in this book and I don’t want to give too much away.
April 4, 2020
This book has been kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I honestly had my doubts when I picked this up but I surprisingly enjoyed it... a lot.
I must admit, the blurb did confuse me with words such as "Nobels" and "Mentors" and "Merging" but I went in, read the story and came out feeling:
1. Very happy because I genuinely enjoyed the story
2. Sad that the book ended
3. Sad because there's no sequel
4. Genuinely concerned for where humanity (and technology and mad scientists) is going
...and I mean seriously concerned. I would HATE it if the science in this book was our reality today. Just imagine if someone else's consciousness was uploaded into your brain so you can "progress" society. Yikes. In the novel, these people are called Nobels. They are young and talented at a certain skill e.g., chemistry, art, peace, physiology etc. They have been chosen by a group of scientists "The Darwinians" to "merge" with a professional in their area of talent (a Mentor). This unsurprisingly has serious repercussions to all those involved.
We follow the narratives of Lake, the Nobel of Chemistry, Orfyn the Nobel for Art and Stryker the Nobel of Peace as they navigate their merge. All of these kids are looking at ways that they can influence society. Lake is working with her mentor to reverse Alzheimers, Stryker is working with his mentor to stop gun violence and Orfyn is working on a project to make art engage more than with the sense of sight. While they are working on their projects, they discover that their merge isn't quite what it seems...
I found that all of the narratives really worked well together, they all had a different voice which made it easier to differentiate each character's narration. I think I had a special place in my heart for each of the three characters. They all were unique and so clever. I loved getting to know them and I was missing them way before I turned the last page. I would love to see where they all ended up after an ending like that as well as what plans The Darwinians have in the future.
The only issues that I really had was to do with Stryker and the future of Merging. That was kind of skimmed over especially the part where they said they couldn't do a certain procedure yet a week or so later it turned out successfully? I might've been missing something there, I was extremely puzzled at how it could've been accomplished under the circumstances however I do think there are so many threads that the authors could tie up in a sequel. Hopefully it's coming!
ACTUAL RATING: 4.3 STARS
I honestly had my doubts when I picked this up but I surprisingly enjoyed it... a lot.
I must admit, the blurb did confuse me with words such as "Nobels" and "Mentors" and "Merging" but I went in, read the story and came out feeling:
1. Very happy because I genuinely enjoyed the story
2. Sad that the book ended
3. Sad because there's no sequel
4. Genuinely concerned for where humanity (and technology and mad scientists) is going
...and I mean seriously concerned. I would HATE it if the science in this book was our reality today. Just imagine if someone else's consciousness was uploaded into your brain so you can "progress" society. Yikes. In the novel, these people are called Nobels. They are young and talented at a certain skill e.g., chemistry, art, peace, physiology etc. They have been chosen by a group of scientists "The Darwinians" to "merge" with a professional in their area of talent (a Mentor). This unsurprisingly has serious repercussions to all those involved.
We follow the narratives of Lake, the Nobel of Chemistry, Orfyn the Nobel for Art and Stryker the Nobel of Peace as they navigate their merge. All of these kids are looking at ways that they can influence society. Lake is working with her mentor to reverse Alzheimers, Stryker is working with his mentor to stop gun violence and Orfyn is working on a project to make art engage more than with the sense of sight. While they are working on their projects, they discover that their merge isn't quite what it seems...
I found that all of the narratives really worked well together, they all had a different voice which made it easier to differentiate each character's narration. I think I had a special place in my heart for each of the three characters. They all were unique and so clever. I loved getting to know them and I was missing them way before I turned the last page. I would love to see where they all ended up after an ending like that as well as what plans The Darwinians have in the future.
The only issues that I really had was to do with Stryker and the future of Merging. That was kind of skimmed over especially the part where they said they couldn't do a certain procedure yet a week or so later it turned out successfully? I might've been missing something there, I was extremely puzzled at how it could've been accomplished under the circumstances however I do think there are so many threads that the authors could tie up in a sequel. Hopefully it's coming!
ACTUAL RATING: 4.3 STARS
September 23, 2019
I loved every page and found the concept of merging minds fascinating! The creepy vibe was cool. I also loved the vivid degeneration of the character's minds. When reading Lake's passages with her memory loss and her bizarre new personality, I felt like I had Alzheimer's or was going crazy myself just reading it! It's awesome that the writing was still coherent and messy at the same time. In addition, this cover is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen! I also loved the mystery element. The ending was very bittersweet and satisfying.
September 19, 2019
I loved this novel.
MERGED is populated by a compelling cast of three-dimensional, true-to-life characters, and to keep these youngsters occupied (I myself am middle-aged, so yes, I'm envious), it presents them with a set of challenges that take them to even stranger places than the ones they started out from. The story begins with a clever, clever premise: if we had the technological means to implant the mind and the memories of a dying person into the mind of a young one, could - and should - we use this technology to extend the life-span of geniuses in all sorts of fields (physics, sociology, chemistry, literature, etc.) so they can do even more amazing things?
Seven gifted teenagers are thus gathered together by the Darwin Corporation, and each is implanted with the mind-state of a dying scientist/artist in the hope that the resulting brainstorm (haha) will bring about scientific discoveries, solutions to world problems, and works of art of unprecedented scope and beauty. Except that it's not that simple, and the pilot program ends up beset by some serious problems, not all of them technical in nature. Plus, it's a corporation that's running the show, and those are never interested in anything except money and power. Right?
Again, it's not that simple.
This is such a cool idea, and in my view, its development in the novel does full justice to it. The story not only speaks to the core matters of relevance to young people making their way through a difficult world (what to do in situations that test their emotional maturity, their loyalty, their ambition, courage, core principles, and ethics), but also presents us in the audience with a fully developed moral world in which nothing is easy, and every choice has consequences both welcome and otherwise - and as well it should.
If you love science fiction, there's plenty to keep you happy in this world of realer-than-real simulations and mind-to-mind mergers; if you love YA fiction, there's also much to like here, from love entanglements to negotiating group dynamics. If you love YA science fiction... you get the gist. As I said at the beginning, I loved this novel, and I think it's likely you'll love it too. If I may make a suggestion, give it a try.
MERGED is populated by a compelling cast of three-dimensional, true-to-life characters, and to keep these youngsters occupied (I myself am middle-aged, so yes, I'm envious), it presents them with a set of challenges that take them to even stranger places than the ones they started out from. The story begins with a clever, clever premise: if we had the technological means to implant the mind and the memories of a dying person into the mind of a young one, could - and should - we use this technology to extend the life-span of geniuses in all sorts of fields (physics, sociology, chemistry, literature, etc.) so they can do even more amazing things?
Seven gifted teenagers are thus gathered together by the Darwin Corporation, and each is implanted with the mind-state of a dying scientist/artist in the hope that the resulting brainstorm (haha) will bring about scientific discoveries, solutions to world problems, and works of art of unprecedented scope and beauty. Except that it's not that simple, and the pilot program ends up beset by some serious problems, not all of them technical in nature. Plus, it's a corporation that's running the show, and those are never interested in anything except money and power. Right?
Again, it's not that simple.
This is such a cool idea, and in my view, its development in the novel does full justice to it. The story not only speaks to the core matters of relevance to young people making their way through a difficult world (what to do in situations that test their emotional maturity, their loyalty, their ambition, courage, core principles, and ethics), but also presents us in the audience with a fully developed moral world in which nothing is easy, and every choice has consequences both welcome and otherwise - and as well it should.
If you love science fiction, there's plenty to keep you happy in this world of realer-than-real simulations and mind-to-mind mergers; if you love YA fiction, there's also much to like here, from love entanglements to negotiating group dynamics. If you love YA science fiction... you get the gist. As I said at the beginning, I loved this novel, and I think it's likely you'll love it too. If I may make a suggestion, give it a try.
August 19, 2019
Merged explores a really interesting science fiction concept in a way that makes me wish it was a series rather than a stand alone novel. In short, brilliant teens have the memories and consciousness of Nobel Laureates inserted into their brain in order to 1) provide a kind of limited immortality for the Nobel winners and 2) to see what strides can be made in these fields when two brilliant minds at different stages of life combine their thinking. This entire premise fascinated me and the Kroepfls do an excellent job exploring the many interesting complications a project like this could have on the people involved. But I still felt like there were open questions and even more that could be done with this concept by the end of the book.
The story also, like most YA novels, has some threads of romance running through it. This had its charming moments, but also got silly occasionally. Lake, the Nobel for Chemistry seems like she spends more time analyzing her chemistry with two different boys in the program than she does thinking about the actual experiment she is working on with her mentor. Although, I ended up pleased with where the romance plot went anyway.
The strongest aspect of the book to me was in the latter half when Lake's mental state starts impacting her narration. I don't want to say anything more than that for fear of spoilers but it was a really unique effect that definitely sold the plot.
All in all, if you're into YA sci fi, I would recommend this book!
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
The story also, like most YA novels, has some threads of romance running through it. This had its charming moments, but also got silly occasionally. Lake, the Nobel for Chemistry seems like she spends more time analyzing her chemistry with two different boys in the program than she does thinking about the actual experiment she is working on with her mentor. Although, I ended up pleased with where the romance plot went anyway.
The strongest aspect of the book to me was in the latter half when Lake's mental state starts impacting her narration. I don't want to say anything more than that for fear of spoilers but it was a really unique effect that definitely sold the plot.
All in all, if you're into YA sci fi, I would recommend this book!
[I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
August 9, 2019
Although the book “Merged” by Jim Kroepfl is presented as fiction, it may potentially become a reality in the too distant future. The story revolves around the merging of human consciousness at the moment of death, with that of another human who will carry forth the works of the former. The motivations put forth, beyond financial gain and prestige for the designers of the experiment, as well as success and celebrity for the body enablers, is the flirtatious experience with immortality by those who do not want to depart from the earth realm. However, having 2 minds or souls cohabit the same body is not entirely without its problems, as is skillfully portrayed by the characters. I enjoyed exploring the ramifications of this storyline and recommend its reading to all those who are intrigued with the realm of infinite possibilities. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2019
I enjoyed this book from the first page 'til the last. The story was captivating, and the writing was excellent--made it flow so smoothly. I'll be watching for their next book!
Eve Anders, Venice, FL
MERGED by Jim and Stephanie Kroepfl
Eve Anders, Venice, FL
MERGED by Jim and Stephanie Kroepfl
September 19, 2019
This book is not my preferred genre, but I stumbled across it and thought it might be a nice change of pace. After reading the first chapter I was hooked. What a delightful surprise! Looking forward to the next one from these authors.
July 5, 2019
This book captivated me from the very beginning and kept me wanting to read "just one more chapter" all the way to the end. Great writing, both in terms of form and content: the plot was intriguing and the characters were well developed. I look forward to reading more from this duo!
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October 16, 2019The greatest minds of a generation dream of imparting their wisdom and making a mark for decades to come. The young, who inherit all that came before them, dream of creating something new that will stand alongside the works that came before. What if both generations could share a consciousness and work together on groundbreaking research in the fields of literature, physics, physiology, chemistry, art and peace?
That’s the premise of Merged (MONTH9BOOKS) by husband and wife duo Jim and Stephanie Kroepfl, a YA sci-fi novel in which six teens, each talented in a different Nobel Prize category, are selected to “merge” their minds with those of six late geniuses. It’s a very clever premise that immediately sets Merged apart from the dystopian trend in YA.
We are first introduced to Kevin (or Orfyn as he likes to be called), a gifted street artist who can recreate a da Vinci in an alleyway overnight. He’s Banksy by way of Dick Grayson, and when he’s caught graffitiing one night he thinks his goose is cooked—until he’s given a second chance by the Darwinians, who adopt him and sweep him away to “The Flem,” a facility not unlike Charles Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, albeit maybe with an excess of security.
The nature of “The Flem” builds the suspense and sense of dread early, expertly foreshadowing the events to come. Here, Kevin’s mind is merged with the quirky artist Bat—a late addition to the Nobel program, begrudgingly admitted by the Darwinians to secure crucial funding. But though Kevin is the fastest Nobel candidate to successfully merge, he is not alone in merging.
The awkward but brilliant Lake, the Chemistry Nobel candidate, merges with a talented if difficult to work with scientist whom she hopes to learn a lot from. For Lake, merging is personal—she wasn’t originally sure that she would even be able to do it, and she laments the progress that she could have made for her family and her research if she’d been successful sooner.
The rest of the review: https://booktrib.com/2019/10/merged-i...
That’s the premise of Merged (MONTH9BOOKS) by husband and wife duo Jim and Stephanie Kroepfl, a YA sci-fi novel in which six teens, each talented in a different Nobel Prize category, are selected to “merge” their minds with those of six late geniuses. It’s a very clever premise that immediately sets Merged apart from the dystopian trend in YA.
We are first introduced to Kevin (or Orfyn as he likes to be called), a gifted street artist who can recreate a da Vinci in an alleyway overnight. He’s Banksy by way of Dick Grayson, and when he’s caught graffitiing one night he thinks his goose is cooked—until he’s given a second chance by the Darwinians, who adopt him and sweep him away to “The Flem,” a facility not unlike Charles Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters, albeit maybe with an excess of security.
The nature of “The Flem” builds the suspense and sense of dread early, expertly foreshadowing the events to come. Here, Kevin’s mind is merged with the quirky artist Bat—a late addition to the Nobel program, begrudgingly admitted by the Darwinians to secure crucial funding. But though Kevin is the fastest Nobel candidate to successfully merge, he is not alone in merging.
The awkward but brilliant Lake, the Chemistry Nobel candidate, merges with a talented if difficult to work with scientist whom she hopes to learn a lot from. For Lake, merging is personal—she wasn’t originally sure that she would even be able to do it, and she laments the progress that she could have made for her family and her research if she’d been successful sooner.
The rest of the review: https://booktrib.com/2019/10/merged-i...
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September 2, 2019Merged is a young adult science fiction novel by Jim Kroepfl and Stephanie Kroepfl. A husband-and-wife team who write stories of mystery and adventure from their cabin in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. A story that pulls you in and leaves you wanting to read just one more chapter. This standalone novel is so intriguing it makes you wish it was part of a series! When teens learn that their memories and consciousness is not theirs but that of a Nobel Laureates inserted into their brain. They must find a way to conquer and overcome. Merged draws you in with a fascinating plot and intriguing characters. Like many young adult novels, there is a thread of romance running through it helping to add an unexpected touch to the overall story. I recommend Merged to anyone who is a fan of young adult science fiction.
December 27, 2019
Honestly? I’m not a big fan of sci-fi… But my nephew is. And when a friend suggested that merged Would make a great gift for him I ordered it from Amazon. Just before wrapping it I decided to peruse a chapter or two. Well before I knew it I had finished the darn thing! I barreled through the book at breakneck speed… and couldn’t stop until I finished the last page. 
I was completely drawn in by the fascinating concept of merging The consciousness of the brilliant minds of dying Nobel winners from all major fields with seven gifted teens so that they would be able to carry on the nobels lofty research and work. The goal of this project was to enable the progress already achieved by the Nobel winners to continue For the advancement and progress of Humankind.
However, problems with the untested merging process begin to arise among this inaugural group of teens… and they must try to figure out what is happening to them and what they can do about it.
The personalities of the teens and the story was so aptly blended with suspense and mystery That it’s hard to put the book down. The story takes unexpectedtwists and turns As the teens try to unravel the truth while friendships and romances inevitably develop.
So OK… I really liked this sci-fi book....And now I will have a more open mind when looking for a new book to enjoy. You’re never too old! I know this is a book that my nephew will certainly devour… Can’t wait to hear his review!
I was completely drawn in by the fascinating concept of merging The consciousness of the brilliant minds of dying Nobel winners from all major fields with seven gifted teens so that they would be able to carry on the nobels lofty research and work. The goal of this project was to enable the progress already achieved by the Nobel winners to continue For the advancement and progress of Humankind.
However, problems with the untested merging process begin to arise among this inaugural group of teens… and they must try to figure out what is happening to them and what they can do about it.
The personalities of the teens and the story was so aptly blended with suspense and mystery That it’s hard to put the book down. The story takes unexpectedtwists and turns As the teens try to unravel the truth while friendships and romances inevitably develop.
So OK… I really liked this sci-fi book....And now I will have a more open mind when looking for a new book to enjoy. You’re never too old! I know this is a book that my nephew will certainly devour… Can’t wait to hear his review!
July 12, 2022
This book is like if the Giver merged with the consciousness of Ready Player One. I’m actually surprised at how much I enjoyed it! The shared consciousness concept was cool and unique. However, the names of the main characters were a little too AIM screen name for me. It was a bold choice to have Lake, Stryker AND Orphyn all in the same book. It never stopped being a little silly to read their names, especially during serious scenes. There are also some plot points that were mentioned but fell off. Overall, pretty good for the only book sold at the rubber ducky themed gift shop in CO.
January 2, 2020
A couple hours in and 3/4 of the book devoured I had to admit that this book was good. The characters are well developed and do not have the typical quirkiness that has become an equation to most YA books. They are intelligent, a bit beyond their years, but seem to circle back in awareness to the fact they are still kids. The story was unique and definitely sucks you in quickly. Definitely worth the read.
April 14, 2021
Very intriguing concept of merging consciousnesses combined with an assemble cast of wonderful characters. It will have you on the edge of your seat rooting for these teenagers.
Want to read
December 15, 2019This was unlike any book or concept I have read. I was all in for a new sci-fi style book so I jumped at the chance for this,
Merging minds with your mentor. This whole book and the concept behind it had my creeped out the entire time. From memory loss to new personalities merge into yourself, what will it make you become? How does it work? What path will it lead you down? Merging the mind of a dying person with a young person. Keeping their ideas or future discoveries alive in a new person to go on to do great things, good in theory maybe?
These seven teenagers gathered at Darwin Corp to be implanted with some of the greatest minds around. I mean it's run by a corporation and has so many moral concerns, what could go wrong? Will it be only things related to the company or will the actual gifted teens being implanted start to have changes of hearts? The book is complicated as we merge all these things together and a good look at the consequences of something like this. If you love YA sci fi fiction and thinking about what things are out there waiting to be tried, this book is for you.
Merging minds with your mentor. This whole book and the concept behind it had my creeped out the entire time. From memory loss to new personalities merge into yourself, what will it make you become? How does it work? What path will it lead you down? Merging the mind of a dying person with a young person. Keeping their ideas or future discoveries alive in a new person to go on to do great things, good in theory maybe?
These seven teenagers gathered at Darwin Corp to be implanted with some of the greatest minds around. I mean it's run by a corporation and has so many moral concerns, what could go wrong? Will it be only things related to the company or will the actual gifted teens being implanted start to have changes of hearts? The book is complicated as we merge all these things together and a good look at the consequences of something like this. If you love YA sci fi fiction and thinking about what things are out there waiting to be tried, this book is for you.
December 17, 2019
Thank you netgalley for thenchance to review! The perfect amount of science fiction along with mystery and suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat! I really enjoyed reading merged. The whole idea of merging another person's consciousness into a teen so they can better humanity is a very interesting concept. I would definitely recommend to a friend.
June 5, 2020
Received a copy of this through NetGalley.
3.5/5
This book has a fascinating idea. What happens when you put the mind of a dying genius into a smart sixteen-year-old? I loved how the Nobel prizes were used in this book as subjects; I've never seen another book use them before.
The setting reminded me of The Maze Runner -- teens put into a scientific experiment that might not be what it seemed. It was obvious that the main characters were oblivious and that something was going wrong, but I liked how the book slowly dropped hints rather than reveal it all at once. It kept me guessing.
I felt like there could have been more backstory to the whole Nobel program. Orfyn has a bit, but Lake is just kind of thrown in there. I assume the Nobel program isn't well-known so like, how is it pitched to regular families? Is there a pamphlet explaining the scientific procedure?
The pacing was a bit slow at times, I did have to take a few breaks to get back into the mindset of reading. The rotating Lake/Orfyn POVs were a bit annoying at first since I could basically always read between the lines of what they were experiencing while they themselves didn't know. Example: HOWEVER, as the mental state of the characters changed, the first person POVs became much more interesting. It was really well-done; there was a clear difference to how the characters were perceiving their situation.
Although I liked all the characters, Stryker was my favorite. He's a noble leader who knows how to get things done. I'm glad he got a few POVs because he seems like a genuinely ingenious dude.
Honestly, the ending alone made me bump this from a 3-star to a 3.5-star. I loved how our main characters' situation was handled. .I didn't really understand the epilogue significance though.
Overall, an interesting stand-alone read. Definitely underrated too; I look forward to future Kroepfl work!
3.5/5
This book has a fascinating idea. What happens when you put the mind of a dying genius into a smart sixteen-year-old? I loved how the Nobel prizes were used in this book as subjects; I've never seen another book use them before.
The setting reminded me of The Maze Runner -- teens put into a scientific experiment that might not be what it seemed. It was obvious that the main characters were oblivious and that something was going wrong, but I liked how the book slowly dropped hints rather than reveal it all at once. It kept me guessing.
I felt like there could have been more backstory to the whole Nobel program. Orfyn has a bit, but Lake is just kind of thrown in there. I assume the Nobel program isn't well-known so like, how is it pitched to regular families? Is there a pamphlet explaining the scientific procedure?
The pacing was a bit slow at times, I did have to take a few breaks to get back into the mindset of reading. The rotating Lake/Orfyn POVs were a bit annoying at first since I could basically always read between the lines of what they were experiencing while they themselves didn't know. Example: HOWEVER, as the mental state of the characters changed, the first person POVs became much more interesting. It was really well-done; there was a clear difference to how the characters were perceiving their situation.
Although I liked all the characters, Stryker was my favorite. He's a noble leader who knows how to get things done. I'm glad he got a few POVs because he seems like a genuinely ingenious dude.
Honestly, the ending alone made me bump this from a 3-star to a 3.5-star. I loved how our main characters' situation was handled. .I didn't really understand the epilogue significance though.
Overall, an interesting stand-alone read. Definitely underrated too; I look forward to future Kroepfl work!
March 10, 2020
I received an ARC of this from NetGallery to read and review.
Lake, Orfyn, Stryker, and 4 others are given an unusual option: due to their strength in a specific discipline, they have the chance to merge their consciousness with another person's, a great in that discipline that will be their Mentor. With the help of the Mentor, it's hoped these kids will be able to solve some of the world's biggest problems, like Alzheimer's or gun violence.
Things get off to a bumpy start, but soon, all 7 Nobels (the gifted kids) are working with their mentors. Lake notices some people spend more time sleeping, to work with their Mentors, and her own Mentor seems a little... off. From there, the kids start to realize that maybe what they signed up for wasn't as great an idea as it seemed.
At first, I thought this would be like the Tok'Ra in Stargate, or the Trill from Star Trek. It's not like that. They only get to spend time with their Mentor in dreamtime, which was an unusual take on it.
While the book changed perspectives every chapter, it's not annoying. It gives a different perspective to the book, which I like. I also really enjoyed Orfyn's love of painting, and how he saw the world and wanted to give it colour. It was one of the better points of view. I think Lake's was the most dynamic, but the most seems to happen to her.
My only complaint it is felt like the plot moved really slowly until the 80% mark, and then everything happened at once. We see the problems happen, and show up, but progress isn't made until very nearly the end. Then the ending feels kind of rushed, with a lot happening all at once. Since there's no official sequel, the ending isn't a cliffhanger, but rather open to a sequel, most of the book is tied up, but not all. Some of those parts bothered me, and I would have like to see them resolved.
Lake, Orfyn, Stryker, and 4 others are given an unusual option: due to their strength in a specific discipline, they have the chance to merge their consciousness with another person's, a great in that discipline that will be their Mentor. With the help of the Mentor, it's hoped these kids will be able to solve some of the world's biggest problems, like Alzheimer's or gun violence.
Things get off to a bumpy start, but soon, all 7 Nobels (the gifted kids) are working with their mentors. Lake notices some people spend more time sleeping, to work with their Mentors, and her own Mentor seems a little... off. From there, the kids start to realize that maybe what they signed up for wasn't as great an idea as it seemed.
At first, I thought this would be like the Tok'Ra in Stargate, or the Trill from Star Trek. It's not like that. They only get to spend time with their Mentor in dreamtime, which was an unusual take on it.
While the book changed perspectives every chapter, it's not annoying. It gives a different perspective to the book, which I like. I also really enjoyed Orfyn's love of painting, and how he saw the world and wanted to give it colour. It was one of the better points of view. I think Lake's was the most dynamic, but the most seems to happen to her.
My only complaint it is felt like the plot moved really slowly until the 80% mark, and then everything happened at once. We see the problems happen, and show up, but progress isn't made until very nearly the end. Then the ending feels kind of rushed, with a lot happening all at once. Since there's no official sequel, the ending isn't a cliffhanger, but rather open to a sequel, most of the book is tied up, but not all. Some of those parts bothered me, and I would have like to see them resolved.
April 1, 2020
Merged is a new novel by the author duo, who also happen to be husband and wife, Jim and Stephanie Kroepfl. Merged is about a futuristic world where scientists have discovered how to "merge" one consciousness with another. Mostly, they want to put brilliant individuals of various disciplines into 16 year olds (Nobels) with a proclivity for their topics of expertise. The merged consciousness will be able to communicate with their Nobel in their dreams. The Nobel would then continue the work left behind by the deceased genius.
Lake and Orfyn are two Nobels, Chemistry and Art respectively. They begin to notice that not everything is as it seems with the organization that has started this experiment. When other Nobels begin to suffer negative effects from the merged consciousness, they begin to investigate and unravel the plans of adults with far more power than they have.
I really enjoyed reading Merged, and I thought the plot was well conceived and well executed. Chapters are told from 3 different Nobels points of view, and then also from the Darwinians (the organization running the experiment). It was really interesting to be able to have the insider information provided by the Darwinian chapters, especially as it coincided with what the Nobels were experiencing.
My only critique is that I want MORE. No spoilers, but that ending doesn't seem to wrap up the book well, and I desperately want to know what happens to Lake, Orfyn, and Stryker after the fact. If you are interested in science fiction, definitely go check out Merged!
Lake and Orfyn are two Nobels, Chemistry and Art respectively. They begin to notice that not everything is as it seems with the organization that has started this experiment. When other Nobels begin to suffer negative effects from the merged consciousness, they begin to investigate and unravel the plans of adults with far more power than they have.
I really enjoyed reading Merged, and I thought the plot was well conceived and well executed. Chapters are told from 3 different Nobels points of view, and then also from the Darwinians (the organization running the experiment). It was really interesting to be able to have the insider information provided by the Darwinian chapters, especially as it coincided with what the Nobels were experiencing.
My only critique is that I want MORE. No spoilers, but that ending doesn't seem to wrap up the book well, and I desperately want to know what happens to Lake, Orfyn, and Stryker after the fact. If you are interested in science fiction, definitely go check out Merged!
February 3, 2020
Before we start in on this review, we just want to send out a huge thank you to Netgalley and Month9Books for the ARC of this book.
Merged is basically having a dream with the same people over and over again, not the same dream, just the same person. This person teaches you things so that they can save the world. These people who are having these dreams are working for a specific company called Darwin Corporation. The company they are under has one too many secrets and these secrets cause issues.
The characters in this book were somewhat relatable. I myself am no genius on any one thing and I am not a rebel by any means. I don’t have any urge to go paint on walls that I’m not supposed to. But the way the characters contain themselves during the novel is something I can relate to. They are scared, nervous and curious all at the same time. The story itself does contain some romance in it (what YA doesn’t at this point), but that isn’t the main story or idea behind the book itself. The characters are young in this book, but their minds are well beyond their years.
This book is a little hard to review because there is so much going on and I don’t want to give anything away ( I hate spoilers), but if there is one thing that you guys should know is that this book is super addictive.
I actually really enjoyed this book and the ending was well written and ended the book perfectly. I always read it on my phone right before bed so it took me a little longer to finish it then it does other books, but was a good book nonetheless.
September 27, 2019
Review to come!!
February 1, 2020
Seven of the most talented teenagers (16-years old) will become Nobels. They each have an area they are considered extremely intelligent in, such as Chemistry, Mathematics, even art. They were given the opportunity to merge their minds with a known genius in the field, who is close to death. This consciousness is embedded in the mind of these youth, where they can continue their research within the dreamspace.
This is uncharted territory and there is the potential for many mishaps. When the mentors try to take control of the minds and bodies of the Nobels, something must be done!
What an interesting concept! Love the idea of this crazy experiment. Overall is was executed well. I feel that it was hard to get to know the characters well, as there was so much happening and a lot of drama. I would probably give it 4 stars for the concept, but 3 for execution. I will say I was glad there wasn't going to be a sequel.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is uncharted territory and there is the potential for many mishaps. When the mentors try to take control of the minds and bodies of the Nobels, something must be done!
What an interesting concept! Love the idea of this crazy experiment. Overall is was executed well. I feel that it was hard to get to know the characters well, as there was so much happening and a lot of drama. I would probably give it 4 stars for the concept, but 3 for execution. I will say I was glad there wasn't going to be a sequel.
Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 30, 2020
I initially picked up this book because I found the concept so creepily intriguing: seven of the nation’s teens are chosen to be Nobels, which means they become hosts for implanted “Mentor minds,” all in the name of human progress. The storyline is captivating, with plenty of twists and turns and mystery, but to me it is the writing that truly makes this book a stand-out. As the characters’ minds begin to merge and degenerate, this is reflected in the writing, which almost made me feel like I was losing my own mind as I was reading (in a good way!) Seven characters are a lot to juggle, but husband-and-wife writing team Jim & Stephanie succeed in making each character distinct, complex, and emotionally resonant. Merged is an addictive, thought-provoking story.
April 3, 2020
Merged: a unique novel I couldn't put down
Merged by Jim Kroepfl and Stephanie Kroepfl ★★★★½
"To be great, you have to follow your own dreams, not someone else's."
I received this e-book from Netgalley. This does not affect my review or opinion. All thoughts are my own and I'm being 100 per cent honest.
I absolutely loved this book. I started reading and was sucked into the world the authors created. Merged kept my attention from the very first page until the last. Not one second did I think the story was getting dull. This is such a unique novel with an absorbing plot.
To read the full review go to https://www.heavenlybookish.be/post/m...
Merged by Jim Kroepfl and Stephanie Kroepfl ★★★★½
"To be great, you have to follow your own dreams, not someone else's."
I received this e-book from Netgalley. This does not affect my review or opinion. All thoughts are my own and I'm being 100 per cent honest.
I absolutely loved this book. I started reading and was sucked into the world the authors created. Merged kept my attention from the very first page until the last. Not one second did I think the story was getting dull. This is such a unique novel with an absorbing plot.
To read the full review go to https://www.heavenlybookish.be/post/m...
April 18, 2020
Wow! This is a debut novel for Jim and Stephanie Kroepfl. I met them at the CCIRA conference. When I got to chat with them about the plot line, I knew it was right up my alley. I devoured this fabulous Science Fiction novel. The character development and character voices were the driving factor for me in this story. And yes, the plot line premise of end of life geniuses merging their minds into the minds of 16 year old geniuses was an intriguing idea. Oh, the problems that arise with this!
Jim, Stephanie - I can't wait to read your next book. You two are awesome. This book was a page turner. And I can't wait to see the movie. You know you have a movie script in here, right?
Jim, Stephanie - I can't wait to read your next book. You two are awesome. This book was a page turner. And I can't wait to see the movie. You know you have a movie script in here, right?
June 8, 2020
Merged explores the ethical conundrums of transplanting human consciousness. Teenagers are selected to merge with brilliant, RICH minds after those minds have reached a near end to their natural lives. Their conscious is then merged with the teenager's conscious. It raises the question of how far science can go, and how far science should go. It also raises the concern about the influence of wealth and power. Should the wealthy be able to buy their immortality at the expense of others?
I loved this book and really enjoyed the realistic application of science. It can be a dense read if you don't have a working knowledge of various scientists and artists, but it's an enlightening look into how far science can go.
*I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review
I loved this book and really enjoyed the realistic application of science. It can be a dense read if you don't have a working knowledge of various scientists and artists, but it's an enlightening look into how far science can go.
*I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review
January 20, 2020
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a decent YA about a group of teens chosen to merge their conscious with brilliant adult minds in the hopes of winning the novel prize and changing the world. Lake and Ofrin experience difficulties connecting with their mentors and this leads to many unanswered questions. A bit stagnate in some parts but overall well written and engaging.
This was a decent YA about a group of teens chosen to merge their conscious with brilliant adult minds in the hopes of winning the novel prize and changing the world. Lake and Ofrin experience difficulties connecting with their mentors and this leads to many unanswered questions. A bit stagnate in some parts but overall well written and engaging.
February 28, 2020
Merged by Jim Kroepfl and Stephanie Kroepfl is such a wonderful story to read. I loved reading this story very much it has very strong characters and a wonderful story line. I can not wait to read more form this author and I highly recommend this to all.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGallery
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGallery
April 22, 2020
Merged was a very creative and intriguing book. The concept had me hooked from the start, and all the characters were enjoyable. From slight mystery to creative endeavors, this book was one of my favorites.
A must read for anyone interested in science, young adult fiction, and unique story lines.
A special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A must read for anyone interested in science, young adult fiction, and unique story lines.
A special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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