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The Illusion of Truth #1
Collapsed
The world is split in two… and both sides are deadly.
In a society of extreme have or have nots, Tenly Hawkins is just trying to improve her future.
Born into the Cobalts, the lowest rung of society, she has done everything possible to escape her fate by playing by the rules. Against all odds, she secures a coveted position in the Premier Workforce… and a way out of squalor into Scarlet society.
But when her scoundrel of a best friend, Kalib, also secures a spot, she's suspicious. Did he cheat, and will his fortune somehow collapse everything she's worked for?
Placed in a high ranking household as a governess, Tenly settles into her new role. That is, until she caught in the middle of growing progressive upheaval due to the inequality of the rich and poor. But it's all being covered up.
Her life’s dream is not the safe haven Tenly once thought it would be. And if anyone finds out about her secret meetings with Kalib, she can't seem to refuse; it could not only put them both at risk…
It could be fatal.
In a society of extreme have or have nots, Tenly Hawkins is just trying to improve her future.
Born into the Cobalts, the lowest rung of society, she has done everything possible to escape her fate by playing by the rules. Against all odds, she secures a coveted position in the Premier Workforce… and a way out of squalor into Scarlet society.
But when her scoundrel of a best friend, Kalib, also secures a spot, she's suspicious. Did he cheat, and will his fortune somehow collapse everything she's worked for?
Placed in a high ranking household as a governess, Tenly settles into her new role. That is, until she caught in the middle of growing progressive upheaval due to the inequality of the rich and poor. But it's all being covered up.
Her life’s dream is not the safe haven Tenly once thought it would be. And if anyone finds out about her secret meetings with Kalib, she can't seem to refuse; it could not only put them both at risk…
It could be fatal.
284 pages, ebook
Published December 26, 2020
613 people are currently reading
717 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 28, 2020
Fans of the Hunger Games and Fans of the Hunger Games and Divergent will like this story. Collapsed will take you through a roller coaster of emotions. Solid plot. Some surprises and non surprises, but none the less, a surprise to the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2020
Imagine living in a world torn in two, a world so divided that one side has everything whilst the other side has nothing, well that’s the world our female mc lives and this is her journey. The author has done an incredible job creating this dystopian world and you are immediately drawn into the story from the very beginning. Mystery, intrigue, loyalty, all is in question in this crazy world and it’s fight for freedom! Looking forward to book two.
April 22, 2021
Title: Collapsed
Author: Jenetta Penner
Publisher: Jenetta Penner
ISBN: 979-8578531613
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PX7K41J
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Illusion of Truth 1
The world is split in two… and both sides are deadly.
In a society of extreme have or have nots, Tenly Hawkins is just trying to improve her future.
Born into the Cobalts, lowest rung of society, she has done everything possible to escape her fate by playing by the rules. Against all odds, she secures a coveted position in the Premier Workforce… and a way out of squalor into Scarlet society.
But when her scoundrel of a best friend, Kalib, also secures a spot, she's suspicious. Did he cheat, and will his fortune somehow collapse everything she's worked for?
Placed in a high ranking household as a governess, Tenly settles into her new role. That is, until she caught in the middle of growing progressive upheaval due to the inequality of the rich and poor. But it's all being covered up.
Her life’s dream is not the safe haven Tenly once thought it would be. And if anyone finds out about her secret meetings with Kalib, she can't seem to refuse; it could not only put them both at risk…
It could be fatal.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Tenly lives in a world divided into the Scarlets vs the Cobalts. The Scarlet’s live in a beautiful city with every luxury while the Cobalts Tenements struggling to get enough to live. In spite of that, Tenly loves her parents who have given her what they could. Tenly long ago decided to her way out of the Tenements was to score high enough to join the CPW Program that took a few Cobalts each year to work for the Scarlets.
As the old saying goes be careful what you wish for because it may not be exactly what you expected. Tenly makes the cut, but surprise so does her best friend Kalib. Kalib never gave a toss what anyone thought of him except for Tenly which made her wonder why. The two start their new life, but things may not be exactly as they appear leaving Tenly to decide where her true loyalties lie.
This was an incredible dystopian look at one possible future with all the complications that kind of a world could have. Tenly and Kalib’s friendship was at odds with her future goals which made this reader wonder where it could lead. Kalib obviously only took the test to stay near Tenly even with the difficulties that world entailed. It was sad the division between the Scarlet and Cobalt’s lead to verbal and physical abuse with no recourse. Experiencing the fight for freedom by the Cobalt people and their allies was understandable, but it was sad knowing that many individuals would die in the struggle. I will be waiting to see what happens next in The Illusion of Truth series.
Author: Jenetta Penner
Publisher: Jenetta Penner
ISBN: 979-8578531613
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PX7K41J
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Illusion of Truth 1
The world is split in two… and both sides are deadly.
In a society of extreme have or have nots, Tenly Hawkins is just trying to improve her future.
Born into the Cobalts, lowest rung of society, she has done everything possible to escape her fate by playing by the rules. Against all odds, she secures a coveted position in the Premier Workforce… and a way out of squalor into Scarlet society.
But when her scoundrel of a best friend, Kalib, also secures a spot, she's suspicious. Did he cheat, and will his fortune somehow collapse everything she's worked for?
Placed in a high ranking household as a governess, Tenly settles into her new role. That is, until she caught in the middle of growing progressive upheaval due to the inequality of the rich and poor. But it's all being covered up.
Her life’s dream is not the safe haven Tenly once thought it would be. And if anyone finds out about her secret meetings with Kalib, she can't seem to refuse; it could not only put them both at risk…
It could be fatal.
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Tenly lives in a world divided into the Scarlets vs the Cobalts. The Scarlet’s live in a beautiful city with every luxury while the Cobalts Tenements struggling to get enough to live. In spite of that, Tenly loves her parents who have given her what they could. Tenly long ago decided to her way out of the Tenements was to score high enough to join the CPW Program that took a few Cobalts each year to work for the Scarlets.
As the old saying goes be careful what you wish for because it may not be exactly what you expected. Tenly makes the cut, but surprise so does her best friend Kalib. Kalib never gave a toss what anyone thought of him except for Tenly which made her wonder why. The two start their new life, but things may not be exactly as they appear leaving Tenly to decide where her true loyalties lie.
This was an incredible dystopian look at one possible future with all the complications that kind of a world could have. Tenly and Kalib’s friendship was at odds with her future goals which made this reader wonder where it could lead. Kalib obviously only took the test to stay near Tenly even with the difficulties that world entailed. It was sad the division between the Scarlet and Cobalt’s lead to verbal and physical abuse with no recourse. Experiencing the fight for freedom by the Cobalt people and their allies was understandable, but it was sad knowing that many individuals would die in the struggle. I will be waiting to see what happens next in The Illusion of Truth series.
April 27, 2021
Tenly Hawkins lives in a world that is divided into two societies, one is the Tenement and the other is the Scarlets. The difference between the two is that one has everything while the other has nothing. The Tenement’s live in side the wall while the Scarlets live outside the wall.
The Tenement’s work all their lives starting when they are just children working their way up to a better job outside the wall with the Scarlets. Tenly is a Cobalts, citizens on the lowest rung of the ladder so to speak.
Tenly has worked all her life to get out and move up in the world. Everything she has ever done is another step to hopefully earning her a ticket to the big house or at least a job working in one of the big houses that belongs to a Scarlets.
The day has finally come to show that all her hard work has paid off. She has passed all her test and has been given a job working for one of the Scarlets. On the day that she learns about her her new job she finds out that her best friend , Kalib has also passed all his test as well. Tenly did not think that Kalib was even going to apply or so he said. Tenly no longer trusted Kalib as she wonders how he got in or passed the test as he always had a hard time following all the rules.
Tenly tries to cut all ties with Kalib from the beginning after entering the Scarlets home but Kalib just won’t stay away. Tenly is afraid for herself and Kalib if they are ever caught sneaking around. She is afraid that Kalib may be involved in something that could get them into serious trouble.
Collapsed drew me in from the beginning and once I picked it up I couldn’t lay it down again until I had read the last page I had to know what Kalib was up to and or how he was going to pull Tenly right in with him.
I loved the world that was created for Collapsed. Two worlds in one living in different circumstances but all needing or wanting the same things in the end. All or most just trying to make their lives better. I can’t wait to read more in this world of The Illusion of Truth.
I would recommend Collapsed to all dystopian and science fiction fans. One-click your copy of Collapsed today to begin this new journey into this new world of The Illusion of Truth. I like that “The Illusion of Truth” just think, what all can you obtain from that, believing something that is not real, believing something someone told you as truth, the truth is being hidden, leaves so much to the imagination.
The Tenement’s work all their lives starting when they are just children working their way up to a better job outside the wall with the Scarlets. Tenly is a Cobalts, citizens on the lowest rung of the ladder so to speak.
Tenly has worked all her life to get out and move up in the world. Everything she has ever done is another step to hopefully earning her a ticket to the big house or at least a job working in one of the big houses that belongs to a Scarlets.
The day has finally come to show that all her hard work has paid off. She has passed all her test and has been given a job working for one of the Scarlets. On the day that she learns about her her new job she finds out that her best friend , Kalib has also passed all his test as well. Tenly did not think that Kalib was even going to apply or so he said. Tenly no longer trusted Kalib as she wonders how he got in or passed the test as he always had a hard time following all the rules.
Tenly tries to cut all ties with Kalib from the beginning after entering the Scarlets home but Kalib just won’t stay away. Tenly is afraid for herself and Kalib if they are ever caught sneaking around. She is afraid that Kalib may be involved in something that could get them into serious trouble.
Collapsed drew me in from the beginning and once I picked it up I couldn’t lay it down again until I had read the last page I had to know what Kalib was up to and or how he was going to pull Tenly right in with him.
I loved the world that was created for Collapsed. Two worlds in one living in different circumstances but all needing or wanting the same things in the end. All or most just trying to make their lives better. I can’t wait to read more in this world of The Illusion of Truth.
I would recommend Collapsed to all dystopian and science fiction fans. One-click your copy of Collapsed today to begin this new journey into this new world of The Illusion of Truth. I like that “The Illusion of Truth” just think, what all can you obtain from that, believing something that is not real, believing something someone told you as truth, the truth is being hidden, leaves so much to the imagination.
August 27, 2021
The George Orwell quote about truth and untruth at the story’s beginning gives us a brief glance at where this tale is headed. I agree wholeheartedly with it, and it engages my curiosity.
The story quickly sucks you in as you get to know Tenly. As a Cobalt, she’s basically considered a second-class citizen. She’s worked all her life toward getting out of the Tenement, the bubble society she was raised in. You’ll cheer for her to leave this world. If she does, though—there’s a cost. Doing so means she’s likely to never see anyone she loves ever again.
While it’s pretty clear immediately that Tenly’s self-proclaimed “best friend,” Kalib, is in love with her, Tenly’s emotions toward Kalib seem to sway with the wind. It’s quite confusing—for a huge chunk of the novel, it’s unclear whether she actually enjoys Kalib’s company or even thinks of him as a good person. She says they are like brother-sister at one point, but she’s perfectly willing to leave him behind in the Tenement without a second thought, and she seems to take him for granted. They are so close, yet Tenly labels him as a “scoundrel” and “criminal” at various points in the book. Even so, there are moments where it seems she may actually like him in a romantic sense. Overall, this relationship doesn’t seem super believable.
The story is, for the most part, relatively predictable, but I found in this case that this actually didn’t detract from my reading experience. I just *had* to know if I was right or wrong! And in a couple of cases, Penner does give the reader a surprise.
There is a point where Tenly is thrown into a super perilous situation and forced to make an impossible choice. I really enjoyed reading about this because I wanted to see how she handles it and how she justifies her decision when there are such dire consequences on either side.
This novel is, at its heart, about inequality. I love the way this theme was presented in a delicious dystopian atmosphere that will cause the reader to ponder the world around them.
The story quickly sucks you in as you get to know Tenly. As a Cobalt, she’s basically considered a second-class citizen. She’s worked all her life toward getting out of the Tenement, the bubble society she was raised in. You’ll cheer for her to leave this world. If she does, though—there’s a cost. Doing so means she’s likely to never see anyone she loves ever again.
While it’s pretty clear immediately that Tenly’s self-proclaimed “best friend,” Kalib, is in love with her, Tenly’s emotions toward Kalib seem to sway with the wind. It’s quite confusing—for a huge chunk of the novel, it’s unclear whether she actually enjoys Kalib’s company or even thinks of him as a good person. She says they are like brother-sister at one point, but she’s perfectly willing to leave him behind in the Tenement without a second thought, and she seems to take him for granted. They are so close, yet Tenly labels him as a “scoundrel” and “criminal” at various points in the book. Even so, there are moments where it seems she may actually like him in a romantic sense. Overall, this relationship doesn’t seem super believable.
The story is, for the most part, relatively predictable, but I found in this case that this actually didn’t detract from my reading experience. I just *had* to know if I was right or wrong! And in a couple of cases, Penner does give the reader a surprise.
There is a point where Tenly is thrown into a super perilous situation and forced to make an impossible choice. I really enjoyed reading about this because I wanted to see how she handles it and how she justifies her decision when there are such dire consequences on either side.
This novel is, at its heart, about inequality. I love the way this theme was presented in a delicious dystopian atmosphere that will cause the reader to ponder the world around them.
January 2, 2021
Collapsed begins with an introduction to the Tenements and Scarlets as two classes of society, divided well before these characters are introduced. As with many dystopian novels, the main character, Tenly, is working to get out of her lower class position and into the “upper class” echelon. Unbeknownst to Tenly, her friend (Kalib) also completes a test in hopes of moving into the Scarlet society. Both make it through the process and start jobs in different places in the Scarlet society - Tenly as a governess for a young girl, Ellie, while Kalib is given a different position.
I can’t wait to find out the role that the Pierce’s end up playing in all that happens in the Scarlet society and all of the characters discovered to be working for a better society.
I really don’t like to provide spoilers or get into details that give too much away to future readers, so I’ll wait for you to see the story unfold. What you DO need to know is that Jenetta Penner writes wonderful novels (and in a series), and this one is no exception. I picked it up and couldn’t put it down from the start. I’m constantly impressed by her ability to reel me in and leave me wanting more. Tenly is so much of exactly who I hoped she would be, and I LOVE a good dystopian society/storyline. I can’t wait for more from this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I can’t wait to find out the role that the Pierce’s end up playing in all that happens in the Scarlet society and all of the characters discovered to be working for a better society.
I really don’t like to provide spoilers or get into details that give too much away to future readers, so I’ll wait for you to see the story unfold. What you DO need to know is that Jenetta Penner writes wonderful novels (and in a series), and this one is no exception. I picked it up and couldn’t put it down from the start. I’m constantly impressed by her ability to reel me in and leave me wanting more. Tenly is so much of exactly who I hoped she would be, and I LOVE a good dystopian society/storyline. I can’t wait for more from this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2020
Save the day to read this book! Book 1 of a new series, The Illusion of Truth grabs you from the first page and holds to until the end of the book! Collapsed is such a book in this series and you will definitely want to read more about this dystopian world full of illusions, rebellion, desires, prejudice, poverty, class disparities and more! There are two classes divided by their class situation. The Cobalts are the lowest on the totem pole so impovershed, so enslaved and living within the wall away from the Scarlets who are of high class living well. Our main character, Tenlyn is a Cobalt. She lives within the rules of her society so she could be eligible to take a test and move outside the walls to work for a Scarlet and live a bit better life. Her best friend, Kalib is adventurous, the breadwinner for his family and also a Cobalt. He is slick. When Tenlyn passes the test and is set as governess to a Scarlet family's child, Kalib also took the test without telling anyone and was placed in a job outside the wall as well. Here starts a lot of eyeopening and trouble. Will Tenlyn follow Kalib? When you think you know what will happen next...you don't! What a rollercoaster ride we are taken on. This is a fantastic first book in a series I totally look forward to continuing! Can't wait for more! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
December 29, 2020
Collapsed is a compelling new series set in the same dystopian universe as Penner’s incredible Configured trilogy. The book started out as a story about a young woman who will do whatever it takes to make a better life for herself. But Tenly’s journey leads her to something much bigger than herself. The world she lives in is on the brink of change and she suddenly finds herself needing to figure out how to find her place in it.
At first, Tenly is a strict rule follower. She refuses to let anything get in the way of her goals. Her determination and ambition, however, make her suspicious of her best friend, Kalib. She was a terrible friend there for a while. I have a sinking suspicion that there are others among her who are far less trustworthy. But after certain events bring her into a dangerous world, she not only realizes how badly she treated Kalib, but she finds a courage within herself that she didn’t know she was capable of.
Truthfully, this book hits a lot of themes that are super relevant right now. Arguments and hatred between different groups of people, class warfare, and even a budding viral pandemic.
The book doesn’t end with a cliffhanger, per se, but there are still a ton of loose ends and a lot of story left to tell. I will definitely be reading the rest of this series for answers.
At first, Tenly is a strict rule follower. She refuses to let anything get in the way of her goals. Her determination and ambition, however, make her suspicious of her best friend, Kalib. She was a terrible friend there for a while. I have a sinking suspicion that there are others among her who are far less trustworthy. But after certain events bring her into a dangerous world, she not only realizes how badly she treated Kalib, but she finds a courage within herself that she didn’t know she was capable of.
Truthfully, this book hits a lot of themes that are super relevant right now. Arguments and hatred between different groups of people, class warfare, and even a budding viral pandemic.
The book doesn’t end with a cliffhanger, per se, but there are still a ton of loose ends and a lot of story left to tell. I will definitely be reading the rest of this series for answers.
December 27, 2020
Collapsed by Jenetta Penner
A world of Cobalts and Scarlets, full of prejudice and poverty, is the setting for Tenlyn’s story. Ten is looking forward to her birthday because it’s also the same day that she’s scheduled to take a test that might open the door to her future. Her best friend Kalib is an artist and also a huge financial supporter for his family since his father died. He also takes the test, surprising everyone, since he hadn’t told a soul. Both Ten and Kalib pass the exam and go on their way to the Scarlet world. They receive different assignments. Kalib becomes a courier while Ten becomes a governess. Kalib visits Ten secretly one time in the middle of the night and tells her that things might happen but he doesn’t explain. The next day, sentries arrive, place handcuffs on Ten and take her in for questioning because of a Cobalt situation. She’s forced into signing a document against Kalib and then returns home. She decides to take Kalib’s advice and find his employer. Once she meets Mr. Robinson, she’s thrown into the rebellion and commits to help. She discovers more secrets that completely surprise her. Intrigue, loyalty and integrity bring grit to this dystopian story for young adults, 4 stars!
A world of Cobalts and Scarlets, full of prejudice and poverty, is the setting for Tenlyn’s story. Ten is looking forward to her birthday because it’s also the same day that she’s scheduled to take a test that might open the door to her future. Her best friend Kalib is an artist and also a huge financial supporter for his family since his father died. He also takes the test, surprising everyone, since he hadn’t told a soul. Both Ten and Kalib pass the exam and go on their way to the Scarlet world. They receive different assignments. Kalib becomes a courier while Ten becomes a governess. Kalib visits Ten secretly one time in the middle of the night and tells her that things might happen but he doesn’t explain. The next day, sentries arrive, place handcuffs on Ten and take her in for questioning because of a Cobalt situation. She’s forced into signing a document against Kalib and then returns home. She decides to take Kalib’s advice and find his employer. Once she meets Mr. Robinson, she’s thrown into the rebellion and commits to help. She discovers more secrets that completely surprise her. Intrigue, loyalty and integrity bring grit to this dystopian story for young adults, 4 stars!
January 24, 2024
Jenetta Penner created a really interesting idea about what happens when society fights so much they literally cannot live side by side as equals. With Hunger Games vibes, minus the kids competing to the death until only one is left standing, Collapsed is about the Cobalts and the Scarlets. The Cobalt would be like the people that lived in the districts in the Hunger Games and the Scarlets are like the Capital.
In this story the main character, Tenly, has always been interested in applying to work for a Scarlet family. She goes through her training and passes her tests. Excitedly she applies for a position and gets one looking after and teaching a young Scarlet girl who she has a great relationship with.
The “problem” occurs when the Scarlets learn that someone close to Tenly is part of the Cobalt/Scarlet Alliance group working to correct the past to united everyone together again.
Will she be able to prove she isn’t a spy?
The first book in this series was really enjoyable and I definitely recommend it to everyone who loves story lines like this!
In this story the main character, Tenly, has always been interested in applying to work for a Scarlet family. She goes through her training and passes her tests. Excitedly she applies for a position and gets one looking after and teaching a young Scarlet girl who she has a great relationship with.
The “problem” occurs when the Scarlets learn that someone close to Tenly is part of the Cobalt/Scarlet Alliance group working to correct the past to united everyone together again.
Will she be able to prove she isn’t a spy?
The first book in this series was really enjoyable and I definitely recommend it to everyone who loves story lines like this!
December 29, 2020
I have already put in my pre-order for book two.
This new Dystopian series by Jenetta Penner follows many of the basics for a series like this.... some great world changing event has created two distinct sides - in this case a war where no one really remembers why they fought or what the differences were then to go to war. Now the two societies are more separated - the Scarlets (the privileged upperclass) and the Cobalts (the down-beaten lower than lower-class.). But things are not as they seem and secrets must be revealed.
Penner does a wonderful job creating the world that the two groups live in and showing the good and the bad for both groups as we follow Tenly while fulfilling her dream of leaving the Tenement. Tenly grows up a lot during her few months in the Scarlet's world, and I can't wait to see what she does with her new knowledge and understanding in the next book.
Eagerly Awaiting MORE!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This new Dystopian series by Jenetta Penner follows many of the basics for a series like this.... some great world changing event has created two distinct sides - in this case a war where no one really remembers why they fought or what the differences were then to go to war. Now the two societies are more separated - the Scarlets (the privileged upperclass) and the Cobalts (the down-beaten lower than lower-class.). But things are not as they seem and secrets must be revealed.
Penner does a wonderful job creating the world that the two groups live in and showing the good and the bad for both groups as we follow Tenly while fulfilling her dream of leaving the Tenement. Tenly grows up a lot during her few months in the Scarlet's world, and I can't wait to see what she does with her new knowledge and understanding in the next book.
Eagerly Awaiting MORE!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2021
Fab start to a new series
I've read a few of Janetta Penners books and they've all been fab.I've also listened to a fair few on audible and they've been brilliant. This book is set in dystopian future where the Scarlet and Colbalt are two different types of life. If you're Colbalt you live in domed Tenements where you are forced to work for little pay with basic living conditions.You're seen as such who are only good for work to produce stuff for the Scarlet's. The Scarlet's are rich and privileged, the women in high society don't work and are homemakers with servants to do all their wishes. For Tenly she wants to leave the tenements by passing the exam and getting on the workforce program to move to the Scarlet side out from under the dome.She knows she'll have to leave her parents behind and also her best friend Kalib. But things aren't always better in the other side. Really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next inn The series.
I've read a few of Janetta Penners books and they've all been fab.I've also listened to a fair few on audible and they've been brilliant. This book is set in dystopian future where the Scarlet and Colbalt are two different types of life. If you're Colbalt you live in domed Tenements where you are forced to work for little pay with basic living conditions.You're seen as such who are only good for work to produce stuff for the Scarlet's. The Scarlet's are rich and privileged, the women in high society don't work and are homemakers with servants to do all their wishes. For Tenly she wants to leave the tenements by passing the exam and getting on the workforce program to move to the Scarlet side out from under the dome.She knows she'll have to leave her parents behind and also her best friend Kalib. But things aren't always better in the other side. Really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next inn The series.
January 11, 2022
Tenly has spent her whole life working toward getting into the Premier Workforce so she can have things a bit better than her parents. But she soon finds out it isn't always greener on the other side of the fence, any little thing can get her kicked out and her parents punished. It would be so hard but the lady scarlet wants her out but the man scarlet hand picked her for his daughter to learn from but which has the higher hand, which is the one she needs to be careful of? Tenly's life as a poor cobalt was filled with education and love, her charges, is more restrictive even though she is a rich scarlet.
This was a great book so much packed in so few pages, that I can't wait for more. If you got the audio you are in for a treat with the lovely voice of narrator Shoana Hunt bringing the story to life through her voice. This is truly a wonderful book/audio-book and I can wait to dive into more of the series.
This was a great book so much packed in so few pages, that I can't wait for more. If you got the audio you are in for a treat with the lovely voice of narrator Shoana Hunt bringing the story to life through her voice. This is truly a wonderful book/audio-book and I can wait to dive into more of the series.
December 27, 2020
The plot is engaging and well-developed throughout the story. One minute you think you have it figured out and then something different happens which is refreshing and engaging. The characters are developed and show growth as they face different obstacles. The main character, Tenly has a specific goal set in her mind but faces uncertainties about her future. Obstacles arise, difficult situations are encountered and new relationships are formed. In the world of Cobalts and Scarlets, secrets are dangerous and a fine line between life and death is a constant. Will Tenly be able to maintain a sense of normalcy while battling how to deal with new revelations or will the stress of it all be her downfall? I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2020
If you're looking for a new series to dive into, I highly suggest this gem! Set in a world divided into two classes of people. The ultimate haves and have nots. What happens when ones eyes are truly opened to the truth of the world? Can they make things better? Keep going as usual? This is a story about truth, justice, friendship and love. More relevant now more then ever, you can definitely see some parallels to recent social activism events this past year. At the heart of the story is a highly intelligent have not. It's through her eyes we enter this world of incredible disparity. We slowly see the blindfold fall from her eyes, and start to become who she's always meant to be. You won't regret reading this. I absolutely cannot wait For the next in the series to be released.
December 29, 2020
If you like the Hunger Games and Divergent, you’ll like this story. Tenly is a Cobalt – they’re relegated to the Tenement and the only way out for them is to earn their way into Scarlet society by passing a test when they’re 17. They then leave the Tenement and all contact with their families (except for censored letters), forever. Scarlet society isn’t what Tenly expected. She’s a governess to a young girl, Ellie. She discovers that there’s a rebellion going on …. Her whole life has been spent being subservient, fitting in, and obeying the rules … could she become part of the rebellion? This story has great characterization and plot development. There are no fillers as the story is fleshed out. A great coming of age story. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.
May 18, 2021
I found my way back to Jenetta Penner quite by accident. I read and throughly enjoyed the Configured series years ago. Then I ran across a summary of this story and it caught my eye. And just like that I am back into a world right out of JPenner's mind. I cared about the characters in this story immediately and became immersed in the world of haves, the Scarlets, and the have nots, the Cobalts.
Is there hope for a world divided? Can the privledged Scarlets sacrifice their "perfect" world to care about and include the Cobalts. Can the Cobalts forgive the years abused and used? I guess I will keep reading and find out.
Is there hope for a world divided? Can the privledged Scarlets sacrifice their "perfect" world to care about and include the Cobalts. Can the Cobalts forgive the years abused and used? I guess I will keep reading and find out.
January 22, 2022
Great first book!
Readers who like science fiction that isn’t too far fetched will love this one. Our main character, Tenly, a Cobalt is a good girl, a rule follower and it’s interesting the way she is written and sometimes her “goodness” is truly frustrating. As the story gets going, her eyes are opened and she begins to change and adapt to the new world she is thrust into, and she must continue playing the good girl while working in secret against those who don’t like the Cobalts.
Without giving too much away, those who like adventure, action, a little bit of romance and a good science fiction tale with lots of surprises will like this one.
Readers who like science fiction that isn’t too far fetched will love this one. Our main character, Tenly, a Cobalt is a good girl, a rule follower and it’s interesting the way she is written and sometimes her “goodness” is truly frustrating. As the story gets going, her eyes are opened and she begins to change and adapt to the new world she is thrust into, and she must continue playing the good girl while working in secret against those who don’t like the Cobalts.
Without giving too much away, those who like adventure, action, a little bit of romance and a good science fiction tale with lots of surprises will like this one.
April 17, 2022
a lot slow and a bit boring
I struggled to get into this book. It’s just really slow. The world building was good but I felt like there was a major lack of character development and the plot drags. Tenly is not a very strong character. She is annoyingly stubborn and naive. She doesn’t “wake up” nearly soon enough. Then all the sudden she does a 180. It just wasn’t realistic. She should’ve started to gradually understand/see things for what they are but she didn’t. And frankly she treats Kalib terribly. I am undecided on whether I will read the second one or not. If it is as slow as this one, I’d rather not waste my time…
I struggled to get into this book. It’s just really slow. The world building was good but I felt like there was a major lack of character development and the plot drags. Tenly is not a very strong character. She is annoyingly stubborn and naive. She doesn’t “wake up” nearly soon enough. Then all the sudden she does a 180. It just wasn’t realistic. She should’ve started to gradually understand/see things for what they are but she didn’t. And frankly she treats Kalib terribly. I am undecided on whether I will read the second one or not. If it is as slow as this one, I’d rather not waste my time…
March 15, 2023
This book was pretty good, and I really loved the addition of Ellanor as a character, because she was so fun and it was really interesting to see her and Tenly's relationship. I can honestly say that I am a little disappointed with Tenly's decision at the end because that is not the type of action packed dystopian read I was expecting, especially with the addition of Ellanor, so that kind of threw me off. I can honestly say that I am a huge Tenly + Jax supporter, (anybody else?), so overall it was pretty good, but definitely not one of those knock-your-socks-off-awesome books.
December 26, 2020
Just wow! I loved the Configured trilogy & I was excited to jump on board to read this one. Collapsed is just freaking amazing! This book pulls you in and I already have my suspicions on who is going to turn dark and those who might, well maybe turn a new leaf. I won't know though until I read the next book though. Which I am already ansy for. I can think of many more adjectives to explain just how intriguing this world is, but you must check it out for yourself. This is a MUST!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2023
Twisted twisty twists
I enjoyed this book and it definitely is geared in to be a phenomenal series. I can see my kiddo in Tenly and I felt proud of her throughout the book. That Jax is bad news though. He's up to something for sure. And little Ellie? So precocious and precious!
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone over 16ish. There are a few references to violence of an intimate nature but they are not described. There is mild violence, no cursing and only sweet kisses .
I enjoyed this book and it definitely is geared in to be a phenomenal series. I can see my kiddo in Tenly and I felt proud of her throughout the book. That Jax is bad news though. He's up to something for sure. And little Ellie? So precocious and precious!
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone over 16ish. There are a few references to violence of an intimate nature but they are not described. There is mild violence, no cursing and only sweet kisses .
December 28, 2020
This book pulled me in right from the beginning. The world-building is very good, even though there aren't too many tiny details. I can't say I exactly liked Tenly at times, but I could understand why she thought as she did and the choices she made. I did sympathize with her situation.
This was a pretty quick read, particularly the last 25%. I'm very curious how this will be connected to the Configured series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book received via Booksprout.
This was a pretty quick read, particularly the last 25%. I'm very curious how this will be connected to the Configured series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book received via Booksprout.
December 31, 2020
In the spirit of full disclosure I did receive a free ARC copy of this book and exchange for my honest review. I really enjoyed this book, and can’t wait to continue reading about Tenly‘s adventures. This book was a fairly quick read because I got caught up in the world created. There was a nice blend of a little action and even a bit of romance. I’m looking forward to the next book as there is clearly more excitement and danger to come forward Tenly.
November 20, 2023
End was kind of eh
Book started off interesting enough. Seemed familiar and like other dystopian books I have read. But I found Tenly interesting enough. Kept my attention most of the book and had me picking it back up, read it in like 2 \ 3 days. But a few chapters towards the end kinda went wild and now I'm not sure if I like where the book is headed. With so many series this was like a book 2 or book 3 ending but idk.
Book started off interesting enough. Seemed familiar and like other dystopian books I have read. But I found Tenly interesting enough. Kept my attention most of the book and had me picking it back up, read it in like 2 \ 3 days. But a few chapters towards the end kinda went wild and now I'm not sure if I like where the book is headed. With so many series this was like a book 2 or book 3 ending but idk.
April 6, 2025
I have to admit, this book was not what I was expecting. How is it that there is barely any conflict until the last 10% of the book? Not only that, but the main character's best friend / love interest is more of the hero, despite the story being told from Tenly's POV. There were good parts, but the main character was so naive, this book was sadly hard to completely finish. The last 10% made up for all the rest with the action, but I do not think I will be reading the next book.
December 24, 2020
Intriguing! Tenly is a young girl born into a harsh existence who has followed the rules her entire life and worked within the system to better her station. When she finally achieves her ambitions she discovers that all is not as it seems and big things are happening. A wonderful story with great characters in what, by all appearances, will be a fabulous series.
December 27, 2020
Allow a full, long day for this PG dystopia in which 17-year-old Tenly Hawkins pins her hopes for a future better than imprisonment in Tenement Three on following all the rules and getting a perfect score on the Cobalt Premier Workforce exam.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2020
Dystopian fiction at it's best. This new series defintely has some factors in common with the Hunger Games trilogy, but remains unique unto itself too. The whole Cobalt/ Scarlet is engaging from the very beginning, and Tenly and Kalib polar opposites who are best friends regardless of their differences had me hooked too. Beautiful world and character building, the work is well done it almost felt like watching a series. Excellent read.
January 8, 2021
The truth is this is fantastic
Although not a unique idea for a story it's still a great one. As others have said the story will grab you right from the beginning. It's like playing uncle with the author but she doesn't hear you. Even if you don't particularly care for this type of genre, it's a great read. Can't wait until book two comes out.
Although not a unique idea for a story it's still a great one. As others have said the story will grab you right from the beginning. It's like playing uncle with the author but she doesn't hear you. Even if you don't particularly care for this type of genre, it's a great read. Can't wait until book two comes out.
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