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Tomorrow's Ancestors #2
The Hidden Base
She wants to escape the past. Is she doomed to repeat it? In the spectacular sequel to Subject Twenty-One, Elise and her friends have unearthed the truth that has been kept from them their whole lives and escaped the Museum of Evolution - but at what cost?
After a perilous escape, Elise and her companions have made it to the safety of the secret fifth base, Uracil, but her family is still in danger. Desperate to secure them passage and a safe place to live, she makes a deal with the leaders of Uracil - she'll become their spy, jeopardising her own freedom in the process.
But first she has to help rescue the next Neanderthal, Subject Twenty-Two.
Twenty-Two has never left the confines of the steel walls that keep her separated from the other exhibits. She has no contact with the outside world and no way of knowing why she has been abandoned. With diminishing deliveries of food and water, she has to start breaking the museum's rules if she wants a second chance at living.
One belongs to the future and the other to the past, but both will need to adapt - or neither will survive.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2021
29 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Warren
4 books47 followersAfter spending eight years working as a lawyer, A.E. Warren began to write in the evenings and early mornings as a form of escapism from life in a very small cubicle with lots of files. She self-published her first novels, The Museum of Second Chances and The Base of Reflections, in her spare time. Following this, they were both signed (along with a further two books) by Del Rey UK who are the science fiction/fantasy imprint of Penguin Random House.
She is an avid reader, occasional gamer and fair-weather runner. Subject Twenty-One (originally The Museum of Second Chances) is her debut novel and there will be four books in the Tomorrow’s Ancestors series. She lives in the UK with her husband, daughter and hopefully, one day, a wise border terrier named Austen.
She is an avid reader, occasional gamer and fair-weather runner. Subject Twenty-One (originally The Museum of Second Chances) is her debut novel and there will be four books in the Tomorrow’s Ancestors series. She lives in the UK with her husband, daughter and hopefully, one day, a wise border terrier named Austen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 23, 2020
I opened The Base of Reflections, and found a quote... ‘Adapt or perish, now as ever, is nature’s inexorable imperative.”
~H.G. Wells
I was left wondering so I started reading.
There’s a lot of food for thought on these pages. Right off the bat...the title. What a perfect title for this book! Reflections. Not the kind from a mirror, nor from light; but from what is inside each of us. There’s much self reflection going on amongst the characters; but mostly with Elise. Then the questions of power which have been asked and discussed time and time again throughout history. Do the ends justify the means? Do the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few...or one? Does power corrupt or does absolute power corrupt absolutely? Does power corrupt or reveal?
The characters are alive, have meat and flesh on their bones, and they feel; even Kit and Number 22. The bases come to life on the pages. They are independent of each other; but with definite ties of mutual benefit and to maintain the status quo, which is to keep the lowly sapiens in their place and the Potiors in power. Then there’s Uracil; but is it so different?
It is obvious that AE Warren knows how to spin and tell an epic tale of love, power and intrigue whilst raising the old philosophical questions of power. Some authors excel in character development, others in the world building. Then there are those who are able to weave these two elements together for the flow and tempo of the story...AE Warren in one of these.
Parental Note: There is definitely some violence and torture in this book but not unduly so. It serves a purpose and builds the foundation and framework of the story. I would recommend this series for older children 13 and up.
February 7, 2020
This is the worthy sequel to “The Museum of Second Chances” which I devoured just before Christmas. It continues the story of Elise and her friends, as they struggle to make sense of a brave new world that hoped to replace the brutal old one, yet finds it is making all the same mistakes. I am really enjoying these well written and imaginative books and hope there isn’t too long to wait until the third book in the series is released.
Middle books of trilogies are always tricky. They have none of the introductory impact of book one, nor the climactic impact of book three, but instead act as a bridge between the two. Sometimes this doesn’t work particularly well, leaving the reader feeling mildly cheated by a plot that has acted merely as a stopgap. This certainly wasn’t the case with this book.
Right from the first word, the author threw us headlong back into the action, introducing brand new characters in a daring move that had the potential to go drastically wrong but was done so well that the reader not only forgives the wait to discover what has happened to those we’d bonded with in book one but quickly grows to care about these new characters. Very like The Empire Strikes Back (in my opinion the best of the Star Wars franchise) – things took a dark and altogether bleaker turn in this book, with the situation going from bad to worse for all concerned.
Having been rescued from starvation and imprisonment, the Neanderthal girl Twenty-Two is taken to the supposedly idyllic and hidden base of insurgents struggling to overthrow the draconian hold their so-called, genetic superiors have over the world. However, paradise is rarely as perfect as it appears on the surface and this base is no exception. Riddled with political powerplay, conspiracy and intrigue, she quickly realises the danger they are all in and takes drastic steps to protect her new friends.
Well written and nicely paced, “The Base of Reflections” is a very quick read. A real page-turner, it had me reading until long after I should have turned out the light and I can’t wait until book three is published to find out the fate of Elise, Twenty-Two and their friends.
Middle books of trilogies are always tricky. They have none of the introductory impact of book one, nor the climactic impact of book three, but instead act as a bridge between the two. Sometimes this doesn’t work particularly well, leaving the reader feeling mildly cheated by a plot that has acted merely as a stopgap. This certainly wasn’t the case with this book.
Right from the first word, the author threw us headlong back into the action, introducing brand new characters in a daring move that had the potential to go drastically wrong but was done so well that the reader not only forgives the wait to discover what has happened to those we’d bonded with in book one but quickly grows to care about these new characters. Very like The Empire Strikes Back (in my opinion the best of the Star Wars franchise) – things took a dark and altogether bleaker turn in this book, with the situation going from bad to worse for all concerned.
Having been rescued from starvation and imprisonment, the Neanderthal girl Twenty-Two is taken to the supposedly idyllic and hidden base of insurgents struggling to overthrow the draconian hold their so-called, genetic superiors have over the world. However, paradise is rarely as perfect as it appears on the surface and this base is no exception. Riddled with political powerplay, conspiracy and intrigue, she quickly realises the danger they are all in and takes drastic steps to protect her new friends.
Well written and nicely paced, “The Base of Reflections” is a very quick read. A real page-turner, it had me reading until long after I should have turned out the light and I can’t wait until book three is published to find out the fate of Elise, Twenty-Two and their friends.
January 25, 2020
Elise, a Sapien from Thymine base, and her companions have successfully made their way to the secret base, Uracil. Those companions are Luca, also Sapien and the Companion to the Neanderthal woman, Seventeen; Kit, the Neanderthal also known as Twenty-One, whose Companion Elise was; Georgina, a Medius nurse who has become Elise's friend and also Companion to Seventeen's surviving baby girl, whom they have named Bay; and Samuel, direct supervisor of the Neanderthal project at Thymine, whom they believe is also a Medius.
At Uracil, they discover that Samuel was keeping more secrets than the existence of Uracil. His father was one of the founders of Uracil--and his father was a Potior. His mother was a Medius. He looks more like his mother; his sister, Faye, looks more like their Potior father.
Elise volunteers to become a spy for Uracil, gathering information from the four official bases, in exchange for her parents and brother to be able to join Uracil when they can be smuggled out. The first goal is getting the young Neanderthal woman, Twenty-Two, and a Neanderthal boy, Twenty-Seven, out of Cytosine. Samuel, Kit, and Luca will do that, while Elise carries out her first assignment, getting pictures of one particular lab inside Cytosine. What none of them know is that there is a malign force at work in Uracil, and there's a trap waiting at Cytosine.
Meanwhile, at Cytosine, the two Neanderthal, Twenty-Two and Twenty-Seven, Twenty-Two's Companion, Dara, and a young Sapien man named Ezra, are planning their own escape from Cytosine. Their planned destination is Thymine, in the belief that it's only four days' travel away, and that the former head of the Cytosine Museum of Evolution, Fintorian, who is fondly remembered by Twenty-Two and Dara, is now there.
This is, of course, all about to go horribly wrong.
The two groups combine and separate, and Twenty-Two and Twenty-Seven are rescued by Samuel, Luca, and Kit, while, Elise, Dara, and Ezra are locked up in "containment" in Cytosine. Elise can't remember anything from the last three months, and only gradually makes friends with Ezra and Dara. Theoretically, Elise and Ezra are serving two-year labor sentences to pay for their surgeries--appendectomy in Elise's case, and gall bladder for Ezra.
While they try to figure out how they're going to escape this time, back in Uracil, their friends are trying to figure out what's really happening in Uracil.
I'm not doing the book justice. These are smart, individual, determined people with their own strengths and talents. Uracil is a place where something is badly wrong, but founded on good principles and perhaps salvageable. Sapiens, Neanderthals, Medius, and perhaps Potiors will all have to work together.
An excellent read. Highly recommended!
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher and am reviewing it voluntarily.
At Uracil, they discover that Samuel was keeping more secrets than the existence of Uracil. His father was one of the founders of Uracil--and his father was a Potior. His mother was a Medius. He looks more like his mother; his sister, Faye, looks more like their Potior father.
Elise volunteers to become a spy for Uracil, gathering information from the four official bases, in exchange for her parents and brother to be able to join Uracil when they can be smuggled out. The first goal is getting the young Neanderthal woman, Twenty-Two, and a Neanderthal boy, Twenty-Seven, out of Cytosine. Samuel, Kit, and Luca will do that, while Elise carries out her first assignment, getting pictures of one particular lab inside Cytosine. What none of them know is that there is a malign force at work in Uracil, and there's a trap waiting at Cytosine.
Meanwhile, at Cytosine, the two Neanderthal, Twenty-Two and Twenty-Seven, Twenty-Two's Companion, Dara, and a young Sapien man named Ezra, are planning their own escape from Cytosine. Their planned destination is Thymine, in the belief that it's only four days' travel away, and that the former head of the Cytosine Museum of Evolution, Fintorian, who is fondly remembered by Twenty-Two and Dara, is now there.
This is, of course, all about to go horribly wrong.
The two groups combine and separate, and Twenty-Two and Twenty-Seven are rescued by Samuel, Luca, and Kit, while, Elise, Dara, and Ezra are locked up in "containment" in Cytosine. Elise can't remember anything from the last three months, and only gradually makes friends with Ezra and Dara. Theoretically, Elise and Ezra are serving two-year labor sentences to pay for their surgeries--appendectomy in Elise's case, and gall bladder for Ezra.
While they try to figure out how they're going to escape this time, back in Uracil, their friends are trying to figure out what's really happening in Uracil.
I'm not doing the book justice. These are smart, individual, determined people with their own strengths and talents. Uracil is a place where something is badly wrong, but founded on good principles and perhaps salvageable. Sapiens, Neanderthals, Medius, and perhaps Potiors will all have to work together.
An excellent read. Highly recommended!
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher and am reviewing it voluntarily.
December 23, 2020
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What if humans created a superior species using genetic engineering? What if Homo Sapiens were then held responsible for the damage to the planet, and forced to make reparations? And what if we used genetic engineering to bring back extinct species - including Neanderthals?
'The Base of Reflections' picks up the story from Book One's cliffhanger ending, taking the characters into new territory as they discover more about the world they have grown up in. Where 'The Museum of Second Chances' explored one of the four settlement bases, this book gives the reader a wider view of the world, physically and politically. There's a new Point of View narration, following a group of Neanderthals and humans from a different base, and the narrative is split between various characters in different locations. Each thread of the plot shows the reader new aspects of the wider society, raising the tension and the risk for all the characters.
The question of right and wrong, and how to tell the difference, is a theme that runs through both books. Close to the end of Book Two, there is a wonderful conversation about power, leadership, and corruption, as two characters try to decide on the right course of action. There is a tension between following the rules, and doing the right thing, and it is interesting to see how each character reconciles the choices they make with their personal loyalties, and the expectations they have grown up with.
The wider cast of characters in this book means that the story is not focused entirely on Elise and her experiences. The characters from Book One continue to develop and grow, alongside the new Neanderthals, Sapiens, and genetically enhanced humans. I was fascinated by the Neanderthal characters - by the effect on them of their experiences as museum exhibits, by their relationships with each other and with their Sapien and enhanced friends, and by the development of their beliefs and motivations throughout the book. This is a really intersting series, and I'm looking forward to reading Book 3!
What if humans created a superior species using genetic engineering? What if Homo Sapiens were then held responsible for the damage to the planet, and forced to make reparations? And what if we used genetic engineering to bring back extinct species - including Neanderthals?
'The Base of Reflections' picks up the story from Book One's cliffhanger ending, taking the characters into new territory as they discover more about the world they have grown up in. Where 'The Museum of Second Chances' explored one of the four settlement bases, this book gives the reader a wider view of the world, physically and politically. There's a new Point of View narration, following a group of Neanderthals and humans from a different base, and the narrative is split between various characters in different locations. Each thread of the plot shows the reader new aspects of the wider society, raising the tension and the risk for all the characters.
The question of right and wrong, and how to tell the difference, is a theme that runs through both books. Close to the end of Book Two, there is a wonderful conversation about power, leadership, and corruption, as two characters try to decide on the right course of action. There is a tension between following the rules, and doing the right thing, and it is interesting to see how each character reconciles the choices they make with their personal loyalties, and the expectations they have grown up with.
The wider cast of characters in this book means that the story is not focused entirely on Elise and her experiences. The characters from Book One continue to develop and grow, alongside the new Neanderthals, Sapiens, and genetically enhanced humans. I was fascinated by the Neanderthal characters - by the effect on them of their experiences as museum exhibits, by their relationships with each other and with their Sapien and enhanced friends, and by the development of their beliefs and motivations throughout the book. This is a really intersting series, and I'm looking forward to reading Book 3!
October 28, 2021
"It is the thought process behind a desire that is the strongest indicator of a person's character."
After finishing book one, I knew I had to continue this series, so I was very excited to find out that book two was already out and then, to my delight, the publisher sent me a copy! So obviously, I had to read it immediately!
I can't remember a series that has had me so invested in the outcome of the world and characters. I started this book super excited to see what the author was going to do with the incredible world she set up in the first book, and I was not disappointed. There was just enough progress in the story that I feel like we've moved forward without it being rushed or unrealistic. I cannot wait to see what the next book does with the world!
The characters are one of my favourite parts of the story, their dialogue when all together never fails to make me laugh. Of course I have a few favourites, but because the page time is split so well between them all, I'm always happy to read about any of the characters.
The plot in this book was really interesting. It went in a very different direction to what I would've guessed after finishing Subject Twenty-One. So much happened in the second half of the book, I truly struggled to put it down. There was one or two things that happened a little too quickly and didn't have enough build-up to them, but except from that I loved every second of it.
I cannot wait for book three!
After finishing book one, I knew I had to continue this series, so I was very excited to find out that book two was already out and then, to my delight, the publisher sent me a copy! So obviously, I had to read it immediately!
I can't remember a series that has had me so invested in the outcome of the world and characters. I started this book super excited to see what the author was going to do with the incredible world she set up in the first book, and I was not disappointed. There was just enough progress in the story that I feel like we've moved forward without it being rushed or unrealistic. I cannot wait to see what the next book does with the world!
The characters are one of my favourite parts of the story, their dialogue when all together never fails to make me laugh. Of course I have a few favourites, but because the page time is split so well between them all, I'm always happy to read about any of the characters.
The plot in this book was really interesting. It went in a very different direction to what I would've guessed after finishing Subject Twenty-One. So much happened in the second half of the book, I truly struggled to put it down. There was one or two things that happened a little too quickly and didn't have enough build-up to them, but except from that I loved every second of it.
I cannot wait for book three!
December 27, 2022
Headlines:
Freedom doesn't last
Prejudices & plotting
Utopia or Dystopian life in Uracil
I'm still rather enamoured by this dystopian world in the Tomorrow's Ancestors series. While Elise remained central to this story, Subject Twenty-Two was introduced and these two characters had pretty much alternate chapters.
Uracil remained an oasis in this world but perhaps not as shiny as it was first thought. This story saw the crew travel across the plains to different bases in what turned out to be an incredibly messy mission. Seeing Twenty-Two develop then meeting Kit was interesting, I hope to see more of their friendship develop. I definitely want to see more Elise and Samuel.
There lots of twists and nefariousness in this story. Potiors and those similar just aren't worthy of trust, the rest of the species seem to have the potential for decency. I'm really looking forward to seeing where book three goes.
If you fancy a really unique YA dystopian world, I highly recommend this series.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Freedom doesn't last
Prejudices & plotting
Utopia or Dystopian life in Uracil
I'm still rather enamoured by this dystopian world in the Tomorrow's Ancestors series. While Elise remained central to this story, Subject Twenty-Two was introduced and these two characters had pretty much alternate chapters.
Uracil remained an oasis in this world but perhaps not as shiny as it was first thought. This story saw the crew travel across the plains to different bases in what turned out to be an incredibly messy mission. Seeing Twenty-Two develop then meeting Kit was interesting, I hope to see more of their friendship develop. I definitely want to see more Elise and Samuel.
There lots of twists and nefariousness in this story. Potiors and those similar just aren't worthy of trust, the rest of the species seem to have the potential for decency. I'm really looking forward to seeing where book three goes.
If you fancy a really unique YA dystopian world, I highly recommend this series.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
August 12, 2020
Great sequel to the action packed story picking up from where the previous book left off. Once again in the enchanting worlds of the nucleotides, AE Warren's ability to draw you into her imagined scenery transports you into the eyes of the characters. I particularly enjoyed 22's controlled excitment in the novel surroundings once she escaped her captive environment. Her and her companion's gasp at the sight of fire made me chuckle.
AE Warren perfectly executed the dichotomy between innate human instincts on moral issues (those of 22) and those which have been shaped by external and community influences (Kit). Who is right and who is wrong? What is 'right' and what is 'wrong'?
Poor Elise, just when we thought things were finally working out for her and her crew, then this cliff hanger!
Can't wait for the third book.
Well done chum 👍😉
AE Warren perfectly executed the dichotomy between innate human instincts on moral issues (those of 22) and those which have been shaped by external and community influences (Kit). Who is right and who is wrong? What is 'right' and what is 'wrong'?
Poor Elise, just when we thought things were finally working out for her and her crew, then this cliff hanger!
Can't wait for the third book.
Well done chum 👍😉
February 10, 2020
Can I give a book more than 5 stars? The Base of Reflections is book two in the Tomorrow’s Ancestor series and it somehow is better than the first book, and I gave that one 5 stars! I guess that just means this series is incredibly strong with fantastic writing from A.E. Warren.
There’s a lot going on, and the author does a fabulous job of keeping it all straight for the reader. Nothing about this book is predictable. Everything surprised me (in such a good way). I couldn’t put it down.
We get to see more of some characters that were only mentioned in the first book and I loved them. A.E. Warren knows how to craft characters who feel real.
I suggest reading these books in order. I HIGHLY recommend reading them right now!
*I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on the Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
There’s a lot going on, and the author does a fabulous job of keeping it all straight for the reader. Nothing about this book is predictable. Everything surprised me (in such a good way). I couldn’t put it down.
We get to see more of some characters that were only mentioned in the first book and I loved them. A.E. Warren knows how to craft characters who feel real.
I suggest reading these books in order. I HIGHLY recommend reading them right now!
*I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on the Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
August 17, 2020
Base of Reflections was a lot of fun. Elise and several of her compatriots go on a mission to free two of the Neanderthals exhibited at Cytosine's museum. The new characters we meet are engaging and complex. I found the dual story lines kept me on my reading toes through the whole story. Being the second book in what will be at least a trilogy means that there isn't really a satisfying conclusion, but I'm excited to see where Warren takes this story.
January 17, 2020
I really enjoyed this book, however I'm going to keep this review brief as it's the second novel in the Tomorrow's Ancestors series and I don't want to give too much away from either book.
In The Base Of Reflections we join Elise and her companions where The Museum Of Second Chances left off. The friends finally make it to Uracil safely and things are looking better. Elise makes a deal with the council to become their spy if they agree to house her family after they rescue them. Before rescuing her parents, Elise must travel to The Museum Of Evolution in .... where she must rescue Twenty-Two, the next Neanderthal.
What Elise and her companions don't know is that Twenty-Two has been wanting to escape and taking steps each night to make that possible.
The Base Of Reflections is very easy to get into, in fact, I found that by reading one book right after the over it felt more like reading a larger novel than two separate books. The story flows perfectly from one installment to the next.
The pace is great, it suits the storyline perfectly. I was completely engaged in this story from beginning to end.
Overall this was a win for me, however I strongly recommend reading the first book before this one so you can get the backstories of the characters and understand them better. I look forward to reading the third book when it comes out.
In The Base Of Reflections we join Elise and her companions where The Museum Of Second Chances left off. The friends finally make it to Uracil safely and things are looking better. Elise makes a deal with the council to become their spy if they agree to house her family after they rescue them. Before rescuing her parents, Elise must travel to The Museum Of Evolution in .... where she must rescue Twenty-Two, the next Neanderthal.
What Elise and her companions don't know is that Twenty-Two has been wanting to escape and taking steps each night to make that possible.
The Base Of Reflections is very easy to get into, in fact, I found that by reading one book right after the over it felt more like reading a larger novel than two separate books. The story flows perfectly from one installment to the next.
The pace is great, it suits the storyline perfectly. I was completely engaged in this story from beginning to end.
Overall this was a win for me, however I strongly recommend reading the first book before this one so you can get the backstories of the characters and understand them better. I look forward to reading the third book when it comes out.
January 15, 2020
Superb follow up to book one
July 22, 2020
Interesting read
I really like this series. Unlike any thing I've read before. Thought provoking, can't put down , stay up in the wee hours reading mind of book!
I really like this series. Unlike any thing I've read before. Thought provoking, can't put down , stay up in the wee hours reading mind of book!
January 5, 2020
Even better than the excellent The Museum of Second Chances. Elise did make it to Uracil with two Neanderthals and they are safe but she has to agree to rescue another Neanderthal to ensure her family can join her. Things don't quite go to plan for reasons which become apparent as the story pans out. Great series and cannot wait for the third chapter.
Ray Smillie
Ray Smillie
October 20, 2022
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/revie...
The Hidden Base continues with the same pace and excitement as Subject Twenty-One.
With two narrations – one centered around Uracil and Elise’s task, and the other with Twenty-Two and Dara at Cytosine, there is plenty of action and danger.
Twenty-Two, Dara, Twenty-Seven and Ezra are planning a getaway. They don’t realise that who they’re aiming for is no longer an option …
Young Ezra is a fan of the Neandertals and fully committed to their well-being. Dara is Twenty-Two’s companion but she’s grown old and not feeling the same since she had a fall.
Twenty-Two’s rebellion brings to light untruths which releases some bonds and in a lot of ways, makes freedom more attainable. There is a darker underside to the rule breaking but I was championing her all the way!
Uracil isn’t the utopia it’s been portrayed as. For Elise, her experiences are very nebulous that change her inside and out. A betrayal disappointed me but I loved the support from an unexpected source.
Kit has become very wise as a result of his experiences:
“But even the best of people sometimes do the wrong thing. You should not judge them on that one action. Look at the whole instead.”
~ the Wisdom of Kit 🙂
The description of the homes in Uracil made me grin – obviously fibre artists at work there 🙂
I think you get a feel for the first story from Twenty-Two’s foray into the main museum. Some things are explained too. However, you’ll be missing out on so much if you dive straight into this book without reading Subject Twenty-One first.
I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen in The Fourth Species. There are some things left hanging and I want to see how far they push on with revealing those untruths about the society they live in.
The Tomorrow’s Ancestors stories are brilliant. Highly recommended.
The Hidden Base continues with the same pace and excitement as Subject Twenty-One.
With two narrations – one centered around Uracil and Elise’s task, and the other with Twenty-Two and Dara at Cytosine, there is plenty of action and danger.
Twenty-Two, Dara, Twenty-Seven and Ezra are planning a getaway. They don’t realise that who they’re aiming for is no longer an option …
Young Ezra is a fan of the Neandertals and fully committed to their well-being. Dara is Twenty-Two’s companion but she’s grown old and not feeling the same since she had a fall.
Twenty-Two’s rebellion brings to light untruths which releases some bonds and in a lot of ways, makes freedom more attainable. There is a darker underside to the rule breaking but I was championing her all the way!
Uracil isn’t the utopia it’s been portrayed as. For Elise, her experiences are very nebulous that change her inside and out. A betrayal disappointed me but I loved the support from an unexpected source.
Kit has become very wise as a result of his experiences:
“But even the best of people sometimes do the wrong thing. You should not judge them on that one action. Look at the whole instead.”
~ the Wisdom of Kit 🙂
The description of the homes in Uracil made me grin – obviously fibre artists at work there 🙂
I think you get a feel for the first story from Twenty-Two’s foray into the main museum. Some things are explained too. However, you’ll be missing out on so much if you dive straight into this book without reading Subject Twenty-One first.
I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen in The Fourth Species. There are some things left hanging and I want to see how far they push on with revealing those untruths about the society they live in.
The Tomorrow’s Ancestors stories are brilliant. Highly recommended.
August 30, 2019
In THE BASE OF REFLECTIONS, by A.E. Warren, Elise and her companions have escaped the confines of the museum and made it to Uracil, a place where much of the societal structures in their world are ignored, particularly the class system. Elise has agreed to become a spy for Uracil and her first assignment is part of the team heading out to rescue Twenty-Two, another Neanderthal. When the escape plan breaks down and Elise is captured, secrets are revealed and true motives are uncovered which all lead to an exciting climax.
Warren has created a unique dystopian future like none I have read before. There are three classes, as well and the artificially recreated Neanderthals, which all bring their own perspective to each situation. The sci-fi conventions within the book are well thought out and clear to understand and they add nicely to the story. Often, within the group we are following, the characters attempt to think beyond their status to better understand those around them, which is enthralling and interesting to read about. As the main group is merged and separated and reformed and split again, Warren does good job of keeping the reader informed during various moments that could easily be confusing if not crafted properly. The climax of the story is shocking and rewarding at the same time(I audibly cheered at one point), while also doing a good job of setting up the next book.
A wonderful mix of sci-fi and class struggle, THE BASE OF REFLECTIONS stuck in my head long after finishing it and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Warren has created a unique dystopian future like none I have read before. There are three classes, as well and the artificially recreated Neanderthals, which all bring their own perspective to each situation. The sci-fi conventions within the book are well thought out and clear to understand and they add nicely to the story. Often, within the group we are following, the characters attempt to think beyond their status to better understand those around them, which is enthralling and interesting to read about. As the main group is merged and separated and reformed and split again, Warren does good job of keeping the reader informed during various moments that could easily be confusing if not crafted properly. The climax of the story is shocking and rewarding at the same time(I audibly cheered at one point), while also doing a good job of setting up the next book.
A wonderful mix of sci-fi and class struggle, THE BASE OF REFLECTIONS stuck in my head long after finishing it and I look forward to the next book in the series.
November 27, 2019
This is not my usual genre and I wondered into this series by accident but now I’m hooked. Good characters and unpredictable plot line. I am not normally a fan of dystopian novels but am fascinated by the thoughts about our ancestors and ideas about human nature.
This is not my usual genre and I wondered into this series by accident but now I’m hooked. Good characters and unpredictable plot line. I am not normally a fan of dystopian novels but am fascinated by the thoughts about our ancestors and ideas about human nature.
This is not my usual genre and I wondered into this series by accident but now I’m hooked. Good characters and unpredictable plot line. I am not normally a fan of dystopian novels but am fascinated by the thoughts about our ancestors and ideas about human nature.
July 26, 2019
A great read
This, along with the first book in the series, is a well thought out story line and very nicely written. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to the third instalment. Aimed, I believe, at young adult readership this will appeal very much to older adults as well.
This, along with the first book in the series, is a well thought out story line and very nicely written. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to the third instalment. Aimed, I believe, at young adult readership this will appeal very much to older adults as well.
February 22, 2020
Storyline was even slower in this one , then jumps to cover time differences
May 31, 2020
Around 40% of the way through, I almost gave up. The story had stalled and I felt I was reading another Hunger Games wannabe. Then it picked up, and the last 60% flew by. Looking forward to part 3
April 7, 2022
THE HIDDEN BASE is the second instalment in this sci-fi leaning dystopia series. I really like the setting and the way the series approaches the societal consequences genetic engineering. This book took me back into the world.
However, the book did very much feel like a "filler" book - mostly designed to get characters into new places and introduce new ones in time for the next. It didn't feel like a book that stood very much on its own. The goal isn't really achieved by Elise (rather others do it for her) and then there's a long section where not much happens and time passes.
We get to see two new bases - the hidden base of the title, Uracil, and Cytosine. After one book spent entirely in Thyanine, it was nice to spread out more, even if Cytosine was very similar to Thyanine (because we were in a museum for a lot of it.) The (subtle) politics of Uracil were a highlight and I hope to see more in the books to come. They are definitely not a utopia, and I hope that the characters are able to push for change in the coming books now they're a bit more settled.
There is a new POV in this book, Twenty-Two, another Neanderthal. It was interesting to see another perspective, this time from the other side of the museum line, and it also filled in some of the blanks about what was happening elsewhere.
However, her narration used some very modern and sophisticated language and metaphors, despite the fact that she's never been outside of her (carefully controlled) museum pod and her information flow was carefully kept to near minimum. It made the language stand out as inauthentic, kept jerking me out of her POV, and I never really felt like I got a handle on who she was, because I was never convinced that she was the one talking (despite being told it was her.) Plus it made her sound so similar to Elise, whereas some more attention to the exact words used would have helped ground her and separate her from Elise.
Onto the next book (I believe the third of four?) which I'm hoping is more revolution-based as it's got a burning cover!
However, the book did very much feel like a "filler" book - mostly designed to get characters into new places and introduce new ones in time for the next. It didn't feel like a book that stood very much on its own. The goal isn't really achieved by Elise (rather others do it for her) and then there's a long section where not much happens and time passes.
We get to see two new bases - the hidden base of the title, Uracil, and Cytosine. After one book spent entirely in Thyanine, it was nice to spread out more, even if Cytosine was very similar to Thyanine (because we were in a museum for a lot of it.) The (subtle) politics of Uracil were a highlight and I hope to see more in the books to come. They are definitely not a utopia, and I hope that the characters are able to push for change in the coming books now they're a bit more settled.
There is a new POV in this book, Twenty-Two, another Neanderthal. It was interesting to see another perspective, this time from the other side of the museum line, and it also filled in some of the blanks about what was happening elsewhere.
However, her narration used some very modern and sophisticated language and metaphors, despite the fact that she's never been outside of her (carefully controlled) museum pod and her information flow was carefully kept to near minimum. It made the language stand out as inauthentic, kept jerking me out of her POV, and I never really felt like I got a handle on who she was, because I was never convinced that she was the one talking (despite being told it was her.) Plus it made her sound so similar to Elise, whereas some more attention to the exact words used would have helped ground her and separate her from Elise.
Onto the next book (I believe the third of four?) which I'm hoping is more revolution-based as it's got a burning cover!
November 28, 2021
Thank you to Del Rey for sending me a copy of The Hidden Base in exchange for an honest review - all opinions are my own
(This review may contain spoilers for the first book in the series, SUBJECT TWENTY-ONE but will contain NO spoilers for THE HIDDEN BASE)
The story picks up right after the events of SUBJECT TWENTY-ONE and gets straight into addressing some of the unanswered questions from the first book. I found it really easy to slip back into the world that Warren has created and I loved exploring the new places that we didn't see in SUBJECT TWENTY-ONE
Not only are we introduced to a new character, Subject Twenty-Two, but also a new narrative style with a dual narrative between Elise and Twenty-Two. I thought this was a clever way of expanding on the world building as well as introducing us to new characters.
Poor Elise really doesn't get a break and is thrown into even more terrifying circumstances and has even less people that she can trust. I found Elise such an easy protagonist to warm to in the first book and this book just made me love her more. Twenty-Two is a really interesting character and I liked seeing things from her perspective, it made it much easier to understand some of her decisions. The found family element that is developing is beautiful and I can't wait to see more of that in the next book.
Much like the first book, THE HIDDEN BASE will tug on your heart strings, keep you gripped and leave you wanting to know more.
The third book in the Tomorrow's Ancestors series, The Forth Species, is set to be released in February 2022
(This review may contain spoilers for the first book in the series, SUBJECT TWENTY-ONE but will contain NO spoilers for THE HIDDEN BASE)
The story picks up right after the events of SUBJECT TWENTY-ONE and gets straight into addressing some of the unanswered questions from the first book. I found it really easy to slip back into the world that Warren has created and I loved exploring the new places that we didn't see in SUBJECT TWENTY-ONE
Not only are we introduced to a new character, Subject Twenty-Two, but also a new narrative style with a dual narrative between Elise and Twenty-Two. I thought this was a clever way of expanding on the world building as well as introducing us to new characters.
Poor Elise really doesn't get a break and is thrown into even more terrifying circumstances and has even less people that she can trust. I found Elise such an easy protagonist to warm to in the first book and this book just made me love her more. Twenty-Two is a really interesting character and I liked seeing things from her perspective, it made it much easier to understand some of her decisions. The found family element that is developing is beautiful and I can't wait to see more of that in the next book.
Much like the first book, THE HIDDEN BASE will tug on your heart strings, keep you gripped and leave you wanting to know more.
The third book in the Tomorrow's Ancestors series, The Forth Species, is set to be released in February 2022
July 10, 2021
A sequel to Subject 21, this is yet another book that doesn't actually finish. In this episode Elise gets trapped in a prison like base and although she escapes, very nearly gets killed by the allies she thought were true friends. Turns out there was a rotten apple in power at the hidden base where Elise's true friends now live . There's also Subject 22, a female Neanderthal, who makes her own and fatal judgement. Is it better to kill one person in order to let the colony live by its honest principles? Or should the life be spared and a thousand people suffer? Subject 22 takes the debate extremely seriously.
The next book is The Fourth Species, not yet available , and I'm guessing it's about the weird creatures spotted in an experimental room in the museum, one of which actually communicates with very junior Neanderthal Subject 27. Won't know for sure though until next February.
The next book is The Fourth Species, not yet available , and I'm guessing it's about the weird creatures spotted in an experimental room in the museum, one of which actually communicates with very junior Neanderthal Subject 27. Won't know for sure though until next February.
November 17, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and I feel like it did a great job at following on from the first. Whilst moving into a story with multiple POVs can often be jarring, I thought that it added to the book and allowed some interesting storylines to branch from it. I think that it has set the next book up well and had some really interesting and well written plot twists. I love the relationships within, and the character development of, the main group of characters and am looking forward to seeing how these play out!
September 12, 2022
A brilliant continuation to the first book that keeps you just as gripped right up until the end which just....ends. I know there is another in the series but it really felt like the author had written one large book and then just cut it in two. I'll still be reading it though as it is great escapism and an easy read story
January 3, 2026
If I had finished this before the turn of the year it would have comfortably been my least favourite book I'd read all year. I sincerely hope it's the worst book I read in 2026. 300 plus pages of Mary Sue'd filler. If I hadn't been bought the 3rd book as a gift I'd absolutely DNF the series after this. Just so disappointing given how interesting the premise and approach of the first novel was.
April 28, 2022
Highly original post-pandemic history
You gradually care for the main characters in this novel about Homo-sapiens facing his and her prehistoric ancestors. Very readable.
You gradually care for the main characters in this novel about Homo-sapiens facing his and her prehistoric ancestors. Very readable.
June 3, 2023
Not as good as the first in the series but still quite engaging.
May 8, 2025
pretty stock sci-fi. Enjoyable.
January 12, 2020
Full review on blog 25th January 2020
May 25, 2022
Thank you to Del Rey for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Hidden Base hits the ground running right in the aftermath of Subject Twenty-One, pulling us back into the world and characters we already know, and introducing new ones. I really enjoyed exploring new areas of the world outside of the exhibits of book one, while diving deeper into the themes of scientific discovery and the environment which are already established.
We are introduced to a new character, Subject Twenty-Two, which in turn creates a new narrative style - a dual POV flipping between Elise and Twenty-Two. In a book where the world is expanding, it makes so much sense to introduce another POV, and this of course adds to the tension and driving the plot.
I also want to note that it must be such a challenge writing from the perspective of a Neanderthal, and yet Warren makes Twenty-Two’s thoughts and actions feel so believable. She is a truly intriguing character. I’m also a fan of the mix of found family and unreliable characters that form this cast.
I find this series such a fun read, I’ve found myself devouring each book in a few sittings as the story is steadily fast paced and gripping. I can’t wait to pick up the next book in this series, The Fourth Species.
The Hidden Base hits the ground running right in the aftermath of Subject Twenty-One, pulling us back into the world and characters we already know, and introducing new ones. I really enjoyed exploring new areas of the world outside of the exhibits of book one, while diving deeper into the themes of scientific discovery and the environment which are already established.
We are introduced to a new character, Subject Twenty-Two, which in turn creates a new narrative style - a dual POV flipping between Elise and Twenty-Two. In a book where the world is expanding, it makes so much sense to introduce another POV, and this of course adds to the tension and driving the plot.
I also want to note that it must be such a challenge writing from the perspective of a Neanderthal, and yet Warren makes Twenty-Two’s thoughts and actions feel so believable. She is a truly intriguing character. I’m also a fan of the mix of found family and unreliable characters that form this cast.
I find this series such a fun read, I’ve found myself devouring each book in a few sittings as the story is steadily fast paced and gripping. I can’t wait to pick up the next book in this series, The Fourth Species.
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