In Arcadia, being different is HERESY. ' Heresy is DEATH.
To survive, citizens must live, dress, and even love according to the United Council’s will. Their power is absolute—until a rebel bomb ignites at a national ceremony and unites the lives of three unlikely people. When the bombing goes wrong,
Nicolette Howell, a young heretic, finds herself alone and on the run, bearing secrets that Arcadia would kill for. When she’s captured, she must escape, but how can she, when her best chance lies with the son of her sworn enemy?
Driven by the execution of an innocent, Jacob Osgood, a United Councilor’s son, hunts for the truth about the heretic movement that Arcadia has hidden. But truth could cost him the one thing he cannot stand to lose: the girl who saved his life at the bombing.
Shiloh Haven, the orphaned daughter of heretics, is forced to become Arcadia’s spy in a sinister plot to destroy the heretic army. She faces a terrible choice: survive or risk everything to save the boy she might just love and the rebels who are her only chance of being free. As their fates entwine, the three must answer an impossible question.
I swear, this book gave me chills. I had the chance to read it in advance, and let me just say I felt like the luckiest girl in the world. It's been a long time since I've read a book that really resonated with me, but this one was fantastic!
I found myself thinking about it even long after I've finished, still caught up in the world. Each character was fleshed out so well, all so easy to relate to!
Definitely on my LOVE list! I cannot wait to reread this book in the future!
So... Heresy started out well written, but immediately had me thinking that it was a cult-ish, no thinking any way but "the one way" kind of book. I stopped to put the book down and possibly DNF, and I thought, WHY ON EARTH WOULD ONE OF MY BOOKSTA BESTIES RECOMMEND A BOOK LIKE THIS TO ME, MEEEE, TO KUMBAYA, WE ALL DESERVE PEACE, EQUALITY AND LOVE ME?!
Then I took a deep breath, and decided, she wouldn't lead me that far a stray (would she?!) and I needed to give the book a chance.
I was right. Oh wait, no. I was wrong. I'm just not used to saying that. HERESY took me for one heretic of a ride and I ABSOLUTELY loved it!
Without any spoilers, I will simply offer you this... if you like dystopia, you should definitely read this book. This author has talent and I cannot wait to see what else she has in store with the rest of the series, or other future endeavors in the writing world!
C.A. Campbell, you have another fan!
PS This is her DEBUT novel, and I am just in denial because her writing shows no signs of that! *Praises to the author*
I love a good dystopian read, and this one did not disappoint me at all. Right from the start you could feel the fresh wave of energy off of it. This book gave me chills and had me sitting up straighter at certain points, hanging on to sentences because I had to see the outcome.
It had everything, Action, romance, adventure, suspense and the real world. I love how she wrote this universe and submerged us so deeply into it that I felt like I got lost into the book with everything fading into the background.
Great character development as well as a great story build.
I found the author accidentally on Tik Tok She’s from my state and a nurse, this was all I need to dive into her book. I ordered it immediately!
I am a sucker for dystopian novels. CA built a world that kept my attention and brought her characters to life. Shiloh is smart and sassy. A girl that many can look up too. Jake is trying to find his footing in this world. Nic helps teach both of them that the world isn’t so rigid and that one truth is not the only acceptable way. A little heresy may actually make you a better person.
There is a heretic inside everyone. Go find yours.
I’m excited to read her second book. I have an advanced copy and will be jumping into next.
GUYS WOW. READ THIS BOOK. This is literally in the top 3 for this year. What a great way to meet my reading goal. So this author actually sent me her book to read for free and rate and spread the word so HERE I AM! I love dystopian and there are so few dystopian books out there I feel like so I DEVOURED THIS BOOK. It was so freaking thought out and amazing in every way. This book is SEVERELY underrated. Like I say that about a lot of books but this one I mean with all my heart. Please read this book, you don’t be disappointed. It’s YA but doesn’t feel YA if that makes sense. Thank you C. A. Campbell for bringing this into my life❤️ be a heretic🤙🏻
This is a reread for me and to be honest, I think I loved it even more the 2nd time. I don't do rereads often. I get bored too easy when I'm not surprised. This book, tho, I can read over and over.
Hunger Games, move over.
Who needs to be a Tribute when you can be a Heretic instead?
Edit: Just finished the audio and oh my goodness! Even after having read this book 5 times, the audio was amazing! It surpassed my expectations! Loved it and can't wait to listen to Dissent.
Heresy is the first book by C.A. Campbell. I was on the edge of my seat and hooked from the first page to the last! Her characters are so vivid you feel like you're standing right next to them. I can't wait for the next book in the saga!
What a page turner. I loved it. It was the perfect Blend of sci-if, adventure and romance. The characters are multidimensional and their relationships feel real. It was so easy to get lost in their world. I devoured the whole book in just a few days. Very fun read and a well crafted dystopia.
I was sent a complimentary copy of Heresy by C. A. Campbell through Silver Dagger Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to both C. A. Campbell and Silver Dagger Book Tours for this opportunity! This has not swayed my opinion. My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
Heresy is the story of orphan teen Shiloh, the daughter of heretics executed for their crimes, who has been bullied into a spy role working for the government she fears to bring down the rebel heretics who seek to destroy it. Arcadia is what remains of America in this dystopian future, a blend of starkly frightening worlds like that of Orwell’s 1984 and more utopian (on the surface) worlds like that of Lowry’s The Giver. Plot twist we all hoped was coming: Shiloh sympathizes with the heretics and becomes a double agent. Will they survive or will the government win? What will Arcadia look like when Shiloh is done?
Campbell writes such empathetic, complex, and utterly relatable characters, and her skill with compelling plot is amazing as well. Whether you read for great characters or an amazing plot, this book has something for everyone and it will certainly keep you turning pages far into the wee hours of the morning as you promise yourself just one more. This is certainly not a unique subgenre or broad strokes premise to be working it, but nothing about Heresy felt tired or too familiar.
I caught a glimpse of another reviewer’s statement that they were shocked to hear this started out as a Harry Potter fanfic and how they couldn’t believe it because there’s no trace. If that’s true, I can’t believe it either! If this was indeed originally a fanfic, I would be more inclined to believe it was inspired by The Hunger Games or Maze Runner. That’s not to say either of those properties invented the pillars this novel’s plot stand on. In fact, what I love about the plot of Heresy, the youth drawn to the rebel’s cause, is what made Defenders of the Dead my favourite of the Jedi Apprentice books back in the late 90s, long before either of those other series ever crossed their editors’ desks. Every story has to start from something, and pretty much every base plot element has been done. Whatever the origins of Heresy may have been, it is its own story now, and it’s one you don’t want to miss.
I’ve also seen at least one reviewer lament that the romantic subplot was a little faster than they had hoped, but given that this is a YA category book with teenage characters in an oppressive state I think this element of the plot moved along exactly as quickly as it should have. Teens are impulsive, they love and fall out of love quickly, and not being allowed to do something is going to make them do it harder. Of course this romance was full of impulse, lust, and a little bit of YA trope list favourite “insta-love.” I would expect nothing less! The romance itself is sweet and I was absolutely rooting for them the whole way.
Despite my praise of how fresh and new this book feels, I feel compelled to note that the setting name “Arcadia” is not at all unique, has been used in dystopian before, has probably been used in YA dystopian before, and comes with a whole lot of connotation baggage from previous contemporary and classical uses. Arcadia is both a Greek province and a Greek concept of utopia. In terms of fiction it’s a popular name for magical realms in fantasy. It’s a canonical setting with both Dungeons and Dragons and the lesser known competitor game publisher White Wolf (particularly in the Changeling games, which were always my favourite.) There are so many other things to think about when hearing/reading “Arcadia” that it took me out of the story a little half the time it was mentioned in Heresy.
Overall I love this book and I’ll absolutely be keeping an eye out for the rest of the saga and more from this author in general! Read this book if you love YA, dystopian books, strong female characters, or page-turning plots full of intrigue.
-- I read this title for a blog tour! To read the rest of the post and gain easy access to the rest of the tour, visit: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
Do you ever finish a book and just have the "warm and fuzzies"? This book had me rooting for the main characters the whole way through. This book is a perfect mix between "The Handmades Tale", "Divergent" and maybe a little "Hunger Games" with a line thrown in there from "The Notebook" at the end.
It is easy to quickly picture how this new world is set up and the rules and regulations established for each of our main characters, Shiloh, Jake and Nic. Shiloh is a Haven girl (child of a heretic), Jake is the son of the Chouncilor (leader) of Arcadia and Nic is a ROGUE child (part of the resistance).
Through this book you get to see the characters struggling with staying in line, following the Codex and fighting between what's wrong (heresy) and right (conforming to the strict rules of Arcadia).
In the new world of Arcadia if you do not fall in line and become exactly who they want, marry who they want, say and do what they want, you'll either be put to death or sent to a prison camp. Internet access is censored, school children are tracked with gps bracelets, the Elite (basically the police) are everywhere and know everything you say and do.. Everything is decided for you.. your future job, the length of your hair, clothing, literally everything. You are as Jake puts it, a puppet. If you fail to follow the rules, you'll be labeled a heretic and go to prison.
As Shiloh learns quickly, sometimes in order to save those you love from certain death, you have to stop falling in line and break a few rules, which is completely against everything shes been taught as a Haven girl. Following a devastating event at the cleansing (where a few prisoners are set free after renouncing there heresy), our main characters Jake and Shiloh fall in love, but they're from two completely different classes within Arcadia and their love is forbidden. The son of the Chouncilor can never be with the daughter of a heretic. But where's there's a will, there's a way.....
Nic is captured by the elite following the cleansing and ends up at school with Jake, Shiloh and a few other key players. Without giving too much away, Nic struggles with her new life and whether or not to conform to this new world she's being shoved into, or hold onto hope that her mom is still alive and this need to escape Arcadia to find her mother who's a member of the resistance.
The only thing I disliked about the writing style of this book was how the chapters were set up. The books goes between each characters POV, but it would've been easier to follow at the beginning if the characters name was mentioned at the beginning of the chapter vs having to figure out who's POV we were currently reading.
The ending for this book was set up PERFECTLY for book 2 to begin. Our main characters are set on a course of heresy and Arcadia is going down! I cannot wait to see what this power couple has in store for us.
"What has eyes but cannot see? Our enemies when we come for them!"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Idk what it is about YA but I swear I always get so invested in the characters I can't contain my emotions.
A fantastic story full of angst, and fluff... the characters were so easy to fall in love with, I'm going to be truly upset if I end up losing one of them by the time it's all said and done. That being said this book has sooo many OMG moments I can't wait to see how the second book progresses
This took me a bit to read because of life events that kept being thrown my way but I'm glad I finished it. I loved the beginning and how their relationship developed and how their POVs intertwined. I did feel the middle did drag a tad but that may have been because it was building to the drama with Shiloh. The end of part 3 was a shocker and so was all of part 4. I found myself racing to the finish line in no time. I loved how the book had a complete ending but promise for the second book which I am so eagerly awaiting to read.
*I received this book in a giveaway and this is my honest review.*
THIS BOOK WAS AWESOME I LOVED THE CHARACTERS NAMES. C.A You are a good writer keep up the excellent work.I also loved the story and how it felt like I was there.
OMG this book needs more than five stars seriously. This book had me hooked from the first chapter and rooting for Shiloh and Jake from the start, there was a part towards the end that brought tears but it turned out differently than what I thought. All the characters just seemed to come alive and stay that way throughout the whole book. This book was amazing and I can’t wait for book 2.
As a lover of classic dystopia I wasn't sure what I'd make of a YA romance dystopia but I was pleased to find all the things I like about the genre here. The world is weaved very purposefully and it's only a few steps from the reality we currently know making it all the more chilling. If I were forced to give one negative it would be the school setting, perhaps a pedantic critique for a YA - occasionally it masked the dystopian elements for me. As you can see it didn't disrupt my enjoyment - the 5 stars are well earned. I was captivated by the plot and there are some brilliant twists in here. My favourite thing about this book has to be the characters. There's not a single character here that feels hollow or 1D. They're complex, interesting and easy to empathise with. The storytelling and characterisation are masterful and I can't wait for the next books in the series.
I was so honored to be able to read an early addition of this book.
Ready this book was such a surreal experience for me, mainly because the setting of the story happens to be a place I called home for many years. The reason for it being so surreal, the way it is written feels so real, even though the subject matter of the story forces it to contrast so deeply with what I have seen and experienced with my own eyes.
Of course, this all plays second fiddle to the story itself. The plot is exciting, the characters are lovable (a certain pretty boy named Jake in particular), and the world building is second to none.
You have no idea how excited I was to see this book was part of a series, and I personally welcome the idea of at least fifty more books in this series!
I got this book for free as part of the ARC for the sequel, in exchange for an honest review.
This book gave me chills. Each time I finished reading, the creepiness of this dystopian world kept following me. The emotions conveyed in this book, especially the fear, really stayed with me. For any fan of dystopian fantasy, here you got your next read!
This is the best dystopian book I have ever read!! I literally had to FORCE myself to put it down at 3am. It reminded me a lot of Derailed by Jon Ripslinger. Popular jock boy who could have any girl he wants, falls in love with the smart, not-so-popular girl, and does everything to get her. Then they share trauma, and the feelings heighten. It is a popular storyline, but CA Campbell brought it to a whole new level, and I've never seen this romance storyline in a dystopian setting. And if I compare the two books, Heresy was WAY better. C.A Campbell did amazing, and I can't wait for book 2. 10/10
Also, I seriously wanna be Jake and Shiloh's best friend.
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook for this story after learning about CA Campbell through TikTok. I think the book deserves a 4-star rating for the idea, which was really good, it’s everything else that drags it down.
Compliments 1. I really like the world. It's a unique idea that plays on the scars that religious trauma leaves behind. I loved that touch to the world and how the religious rules were played to fit the universe. I think it does an excellent job of calling into question many things we see in the world today as well.
2. The new alternatives to swearing. Really enjoyed them even though they threw me off at first.
Negatives 1. I don't think the author or editor could decide whether the book should be written in past or present tense. That was the biggest issue. Usually, when I listen to an audiobook, I don't hear as many grammar errors. However, I could hear this one loud and clear every single time. I think that tensing really needed to be pinned down to help the narrative. There were other issues as well, but some grammar errors can be excused or argued as necessary. The tensing just really stands out to me.
2. Another negative was a part of the plot that made me throw my hands in the air and walk away from what I was doing just to pause the audiobook. This is a spoiler, but it was established in the narrative that Shiloh had a recorder put on her bra by the United Council (I can't remember the name of the specific division). However, immediately after this Shiloh decides to go against everything she was told and kiss Jake where the UC can hear everything that happens? I was so thrown off by this. It's almost like it was thrown in haphazardly to add drama, but then every scene never coordinated that she was being listened to. If Shiloh had a recording device on her and she actually wanted to protect the people around her, she would cater everything in every situation. The UC would have access to all those recordings and know she was breaking one of the rules they established at the beginning. After that as well, Shiloh would mention she was being listened to and carefully hedge around other things with others but talking about Heresy with Jake wasn't off the table? Despite him being the counselor's son? And he was already in trouble for that. Very frustrating from a storytelling perspective. Shiloh might be a teenager, but teenagers aren't stupid. Especially since the author established Shiloh is smart.
3. I think there should be a content warning for underage sex.
4. On the note of alternative swear words. I do wonder if it was meant as a part of the worldbuilding in the sense that the characters no longer use current swear replacements or if the author just didn't want to litter their book with swear words? It all ends up having the same effect in the end anyway.
5. Unnecessary prepositions. That’s one thing that needs to be cut. Example: “sat down” what other direction would you sit? It would be notable if for some reason the characters are sitting on the ceiling, but just sitting in general, don’t do it.
6. I wish there was more consistency in chapter lengths.
Audiobook There were some strange things with the audio every so often. I could tell the reader rerecorded a few lines because they didn't have the same tone. That stood out while listening.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book gave off dystopian hunger games vibes, 1984 government control and destruction of language/history, a splash of hand maid’s tale couple pairing and the movie equilibrium destruction of joy, mixed in with a star crossed lovers story.
I really enjoyed the world created in this book. Arcadia is the dystopian world where religion, art and music are considered heresy (as well as acts against the government), and a council is created to lead a new world order for the previous United States. Even swear words are something of the past. All belongings of the old world are destroyed. The class system separates the rich who make the rules to the lower classes. The top class are basically untouchable and protected by an army called the Elite. At age 25, all people get paired off to repopulate their world and in most cases, it’s not for love. You are basically told how you should think and live.
The story follows the perspectives of Shiloh, Jake and Nic coming from different backgrounds, and we eventually see their stories interwoven. Shiloh and Jake experience trauma together, growing closer during their recovery in hospital after nearly dying. In their world, Shiloh being of lower class would not normally associate with Jake, as he is the leader’s son. Nic comes from a rebel group (not part of society) whose mission is to dismantle the world that’s been created around them. Nic is captured by the Elite, after her mother who bombs the capital, hasn’t reconnected with her at a rendezvous point. After being tortured, Nic is sent to Shiloh’s place of residence, mirroring that of a girls orphanage and they start school together, in which Jake also attends.
The forces that be, are continuously trying to keep Jake and Shiloh apart, though their relationship continuously grows. Shiloh ends up being blackmailed by an Elite to spy on Jake, so he doesn’t commit heresy. Nic longs for the day to be reunited with her mother and plans her escape. There’s a public display of love where Shiloh enters the world of Jake at a Yuletide ball and she just really doesn’t belong there. It’s almost like they shouldn’t be together, but they soldier on. As we get deeper into the story, they and other friends end up helping Nic escape and Shiloh admits she’s been spying on them after being threatened and tortured constantly by an Elite, which we find out is someone Jake knows.
It was a greatly paced book and I’m glad it’s a series because there’s a lot to dismantle. No government can ever be taken down without some careful planning. We’ll get to see how the journey continues with the rebel group, but maybe we’ll even see how Shiloh and Jake may connect to them. It’s definitely not a world I would want to live in, when you can’t even listen to music unless it’s created by the government. Excited to see how it all pans out in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I've been looking for something to fill that dystopian-sized hole in my heart, and CA Campbell absolutely delivered and gave more than I ever could have asked for!
This book will immerse you in a world a little too eerily similar to ours, and it won't let you escape. It will throw a sweet, fierce romance at you and hope you catch it before you drop your feelings all over the floor. It will give you hope and strength and courage and leave you wanting to go out and change the world. And most of all, it will show you that love is power, the kind of power that everyone should be able to wield to change the world.
One of my favorite parts of this book is how medicine is used and how injuries aren't just brushed off by the characters, but healing and recovery actually has to happen. It was so refreshing to see as a long-time reader.
Don't even get me started on the romance! There is so much emotion and depth in Shiloh and Jake's romance, and I loved watching them grow together and learn the power that their love holds. It was such a sweet romance built on an actual friendship and shared experiences, even with the differences between them. Then there's Nic and her journey which is just so inspiring and harrowing. She's such a compelling character and I cannot wait to see where she goes from here!
This is a book full of such depth, emotion, and love. It's a spectacular start to what I know will end up belonging in the classic dystopian family.
If you're looking for a book to start your own dystopian renaissance with, please pick this up! You will not regret it! Thank you to CA Campbell for sending me a copy of the book! All opinions are my own!
There were spelling errors within the book that weren't caught. The writing was unremarkable, and it dragged through the middle. The characters were difficult to connect with, and the writing skills weren't to the caliber that they could pull off the different points of view. The 5-star reviews here don't appear authentic. Real reviews are often balanced with some non-friends, genuine reviews. Given this was an indie book, I'm quite suspicious of the "positive" reviews.
There are much better dystopian books out there written by professional writers with the necessary skill set to 1) pull it off and 2) act like a professional on their social platforms. Which brings me to my third point, I was highly turned off by how the author tends to go on immature rants on their social. Established authors can get away with it, but not so much beginning authors.
Nonetheless, I still tried to get through this book, despite the author using social platforms to make very egotistical remarks. Midway through, the immature, unrelatable characters reflected the author's level of maturity. I did try to finish this book. I really did try. But, it felt like I was being tortured. I didn't only shelve this book, I'm definitely not going to be reading any of their books in the future. I'd rather read books from authors with a certain skill level that will keep me hooked throughout the book and such authors that do not go on social to make ridiculous, ranting, judgmental commentary.
It's partly why I do not follow Stephen King on Twitter, but at least Stephen King is established, and can actually write.
Diving into Heresy by C.A. Campbell was an exhilarating experience that reignited my love for dystopian tales. Set in the oppressive world of Arcadia, where deviation is met with death, the narrative intertwines the lives of three compelling characters: Nicolette Howell, Jacob Osgood, and Shiloh Haven. Their journeys are a rollercoaster of rebellion, forbidden love, and the quest for truth.
Jacob Osgood, the son of a United Councilor, is particularly intriguing. Despite his close relationship with his parents, he stands firmly against their authoritarian beliefs. His mother exudes a Narcissa Malfoy vibe—loyal to her cause but fiercely protective of her son. The dynamic between Jacob and Shiloh Haven, the orphaned daughter of heretics, is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet: predictable yet endearing in its sweetness and innocence.
However, it’s the Haven sisters who truly steal the spotlight. Their complex backstories and interactions add depth to the narrative, making Shiloh a standout female lead. The story is peppered with sass and wit, keeping readers engaged from start to finish.
A noteworthy aspect is Campbell’s commitment to including trigger warnings, prioritizing readers’ mental health over potential profit—a stance that deserves applause.
While the plot follows familiar dystopian tropes, it’s executed with flair and freshness. I’m eagerly anticipating diving into the prequel and the sequel to continue this adventure. Overall, I’d rate Heresy a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a fun, sassy read that any dystopian romance fan would appreciate.
First off, I wanna thank the author for trusting me enought to gimme the chance at an ARC read and review. Thank you, thank you, thank you! 😊🥰😍
Secondly, I hate your freakin guts!!! 🤬🤬🤬 I'm sleep deprived, emotional, attached to fictional characters and addicted to another series that doesn't even have sequels yet! It's all your fault! 😂😂😂
The review:
First, the bad. A few typos here and there. Mainly in the last chapter or two. None so annoying as to cause an eye roll or mess up the flow of the story. I kinda wanted more of a background to why things are the way they are but that's just the history nut in me. It gives quite a bit of background I just craved more. Ummm, can anyone see me scrambling for more negative to say?
The good:
Every single part!! Within a few pages of the book I wanted to know more, having been pulled immediately into Arcadia. There's action, drama and emotion full of raw and relatable characters. Every character has their own unique voice and personality. Even minor characters felt real. I could smell the smoke, feel the cold. I was angry and wanted to choke people on more than one occasion. I was heartbroken and cried many times.
Honestly, if my family saw my hand fly to my mouth with an audible gasp one more time this week they might have had me committed!
My favorite genre is dystopian...this is no secret. Because of that I looked forward to this book and then again, kinda dreaded it...afraid of being disappointed yet again.
So many new authors aim to be the next Veronica Roth, Rick Riordan, Stephanie Mayer. So few aim to just get their own unique story out. They pick and choose from Hunger Games and Divergent, Twilight and Maze Runner. A little here and lot there. They overdo soooo much and basically tell the same stories over and over with their own words.
NOT THIS AUTHOR!! Everything about this jacked up future world was unique, painful, exciting and a total surprise.
I read on Goodreads that this book started as fan fiction for Harry Potter years ago. Dude, how? I see nothing recycled or reused in this book!! Nothing cliche. Nothing overdone.
Let me just finish with this: Campbell is a rare gem that not only hits a home run on her first book but leaves you craving more. I can not wait for book 2 and will forever read anything this woman puts out.
Heresy is a dystopian YA novel where what used to be the United States is now divided into three regions. The story is set in Arcadia, where conformity and obedience to the Council’s will is the rule of law, it is required and absolute.
The story follows the protagonist, Shiloh Haven, the orphaned child of convicted heretics. Shiloh’s sole mission is to survive at all costs. That notion is soon challenged when she finds herself in a precarious situation along with Jacob Osgood, the son of a high-ranking council member.
The two set out on a journey in the pursuit of truth and learn to love and trust along the way. Though you may see an obvious love story laid our before you, the author does an excellent job layering in subplots with other integral characters with twists and turns you will not see coming. There are strong themes of individualism, acceptance, and tolerance. All things the world could use a little more of.
Heresy is a page turner! There is everything you want in a thriller, high stakes, suspense, romance, life and death situations and bravery. I highly recommend Heresy, it’s a must read with strong female leads and edge of your seat action.
There are no words to describe how much I froqing LOVED this book, but I am going to do my best! Campbell deserves to be shot into the stars with dystopian authors like Veronica Roth and Suzanne Collins! Not since The Allegiant or Hunger Games series have I enjoyed a YA Dystopian story SO MUCH! Unlike the series mentioned before, I was on the edge of my seat The ENTIRE time! My heart could not take the suspense on every page! Just as I thought all was well and the Elite would get what was coming to them, another wrench would be thrown at me and my heart almost burst. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME! Good grief Campbell! You were not nice to this heart of mine! Heresy she shows, as the author so eloquently put it, that 'Love, in all its different forms, is so real and so peaceful. Love is God in action. Love, NOT exclusion, is the key to a better world and to unity! Shiloh said that she was "a bomb, in her own right, about to set the world on fire." Well, Shiloh. Count me in for that ride! I CANNOT wait until the second book. I need it, STAT! This is a series to watch, this is a series deserving of a best sellers list! C A Campbell, I applaud you, you have a fan in me. YOU FROQING DID IT!
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this book to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book definitely gives me Divergent energy, and I’m so here for it.
This type of Dystopian setting just sucks you in because of how it feels like it could actually happen. I love the use technology in this world, (well, for the most part, read it, you’ll understand.) I would read about some of the things they would use and think, Man, that would be so cool to have. I enjoyed the way she told stories of the different sets of characters, very difficult to do, but Campbell did it well. The quotes she put in there to help set up for the next scene was such a great touch. There is action and adventure, twists and turns, plots and romance. I enjoyed that didn’t see something’s coming and that isn’t something that happens often for me, I love a book that can keep me on my toes. I loved the way she developed Shiloh’s character, especially at the end of the book. I love how she has shaped this world, to see the idea of “unity” within it. I can not wait to see how these characters and their stories evolve in book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
What a series! The first book Heresy in the Heretics Saga was one of those books that you pick up, start reading, and realize quickly that you won't be putting it down until it's finished. The set up and plot aren't a far stretch from what they are for most young adult dystopian novels, but I quite frankly love the genre so that doesn't bother me at all. It has some good twists and surprise moments, and a lot of "cat and mouse" strategy game playing from both sides of the fence.
Short summary: A country exists where there aren't any differences tolerated, in the name of equality. Of course, this still leads to a sense of oppression, and there's a rebel group that wants to take the system down. A young orphaned adolescent happens to meet and fall for the son of a government official, and together they are ready to set the world on fire.
Great chemistry between the characters (Val and Stef are my favorites), great character depth for the characters that matter the most, and it's written and paced really well. It surprisingly didn't leave off on much of a cliffhanger, so I'm interested to see what book 2 holds!
This amazing book came out yesterday and if you’re a fan of YA dystopia then you need to add this to your tbr asap!! I don’t often read dystopia, but when I do THIS is what I’m looking for.
Heresy was masterfully plotted. I had such a hard time putting it down and I was hooked from the first page. It had quite a few twists that I never saw coming, too. All of the characters were fantastic and I loved the romance. I was expecting the main romance subplot to be more of slowburn for some reason and it was more of a fast-and-furious type than a slow burn, but I didn’t mind at all. The chemistry between the characters was perfect and added another level of intensity to the story, while also being a great conduit for showing how they were developing.
Yet another thing I loved was the actual dystopian world. It was a world that seemed quite realistic (scarily so, perhaps) and the way the author went about discussing freedom was very powerful. Overall, I really enjoyed this novel and if you like dystopias with action-packed plots as well as romances, then check it out and support this amazing author! I’m so thankful to have been a part of this arc team and I can’t wait to read more from C. A. Campbell!