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Manipulated #1
Modified
What if the sky was deadly?
Fin has never stepped foot on the surface of the Earth. Working the mines, deep below, has been the only life she's ever known. The underground is nothing more than an existence of sweat and monotony in service to the Enhanced Human Coalition—the genetically-modified who control the underground from the world above. Every Dweller underground understands that you serve the EHC up top, or you don't eat.
Two hundred years after the planet's magnetic poles began to flip, Earth's surface has become irradiated and unsustainable. As the land, water, and even the air grew toxic, the underprivileged were doomed to a life of hard labor underground, while the Enhanced Human Coalition on the surface enjoy their spoils.
But now, Fin and her friends discover a stolen piece of EHC tech that modifies genetics, giving them the abilities of those up top—varied levels of increased strength, intelligence, and adaptation to the surface's harsh conditions. The theft of this technology triggers a manhunt, forcing them to flee to the most dangerous place they could possibly go . . . aboveground.
Can she save a world broken in two?
Fin has never stepped foot on the surface of the Earth. Working the mines, deep below, has been the only life she's ever known. The underground is nothing more than an existence of sweat and monotony in service to the Enhanced Human Coalition—the genetically-modified who control the underground from the world above. Every Dweller underground understands that you serve the EHC up top, or you don't eat.
Two hundred years after the planet's magnetic poles began to flip, Earth's surface has become irradiated and unsustainable. As the land, water, and even the air grew toxic, the underprivileged were doomed to a life of hard labor underground, while the Enhanced Human Coalition on the surface enjoy their spoils.
But now, Fin and her friends discover a stolen piece of EHC tech that modifies genetics, giving them the abilities of those up top—varied levels of increased strength, intelligence, and adaptation to the surface's harsh conditions. The theft of this technology triggers a manhunt, forcing them to flee to the most dangerous place they could possibly go . . . aboveground.
Can she save a world broken in two?
1 pages, Audio CD
First published August 15, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 27, 2020
2.5 Stars
Lots of things happened in this book and the action scenes made for compelling reading. There was lots of chasing and running and escaping. However, I don't remember the names of any of the people who were being chased, or running, or escaping. This is because the story was more about the plot than the characters or the world itself. It is a shame because the concept is very cool and reminds me a little of Red Rising (just the concept people okay? Just the concept). I will actually continue with this series eventually because the potential is enormous. I mean technology that modifies humans to be able to survive on the earth's hazardous surface! Denying those dwelling underground the technology in order to ensure a ready labour force! All the makings of a great sci-fi dystopia right? I look forward to seeing these ideas developed and learning more about the characters who have sworn to bring about a rebellion that will result in equality for all.
Lots of things happened in this book and the action scenes made for compelling reading. There was lots of chasing and running and escaping. However, I don't remember the names of any of the people who were being chased, or running, or escaping. This is because the story was more about the plot than the characters or the world itself. It is a shame because the concept is very cool and reminds me a little of Red Rising (just the concept people okay? Just the concept). I will actually continue with this series eventually because the potential is enormous. I mean technology that modifies humans to be able to survive on the earth's hazardous surface! Denying those dwelling underground the technology in order to ensure a ready labour force! All the makings of a great sci-fi dystopia right? I look forward to seeing these ideas developed and learning more about the characters who have sworn to bring about a rebellion that will result in equality for all.
January 5, 2018
Very little character development or world building. Needed more descriptions of the outside world as well. Read like an amateur writer, but the idea itself was good and so I rate it a 3.
August 18, 2017
Human society has been riven in two. Following the flip in the Earth’s magnetic poles and subsequent irradiation of the surface, only those human whose genetic make-up permitted, could live safely above ground. They became the dominant society, and enslaved the ‘Dwellers’, who were forced to live below ground and mine for their masters. The Dwellers have no family life. They are bred to work, and start mining as young as eight.
“Old-timers speak of a simpler past when all of mankind lived above the surface. It’s hard to imagine living anywhere but down below” – with the hunger, dirt and poor health.
Fin, Lacy and Drape are teenage Dwellers, who supplement their meagre rations by pilfering from the shipments sent down by the Evolved Human Coalition (‘Leeches’ to their subjects). At the start of the novel, pure chance leads Fin to stealing the one thing from a shipment, that will definitely be missed – a gene modifying kit. By accidentally activating it, suddenly, Fin has all the attributes of members of the EHC – greater strength, intelligence and immunity to the radiation. It immediately becomes apparent to the reader, the EHC have not evolved – rather they have developed technology to modulate the genes of the humans that they deem deserving – and the rest are doomed to unmodified subterranean servitude. There is little natural about the division of humanity, and everything immoral. If not before, from this realisation, the reader immediately starts rooting for the adolescent thieves, and cheering for the downfall of the ECH.
First, Fin has to rescue her friends from the guards. On the way, they make more friends – have to rescue them – more genetic modifications – more friends – more rescues … The story is very fast paced. Fin and her friends are never still for a minute, and are perpetually in danger. Then they make a discovery that makes their continued existence even more precarious. The ECH must stop them at all costs.
There are flaws in this book. Fin has enhanced intelligence, but as a working dweller, must be uneducated – so how does she manage to do so many the things that surely require learning rather than just an exceptional application of logic. All superhumans (see Marvel comics, Buffy etc) automatically know martial arts (that is just the way it is!), so it should not come as a surprise that Fin is able to beat guards who have trained for combat – but it still rankles somehow. The gene modifications have immediate effect in grown humans – surely it must take at least some time to spread throughout the body, when above ground the modifications are done in utero with far fewer cells to deal with. I feel the societies both above and below ground need a bit more fleshing out. What do the Tennant class actually do?
However, one doesn’t read sci-fi/fantasy to look for scientific veracity. This is a (literally) fabulous, and exciting story that keeps you gripped throughout. The basic premise is very good, and bodes well for further books in the series. The changes in the teenagers’ personalities post-modification are really well dealt with. Both societies are on the cusp of seismic shifts, and it will be fascinating to see how the individuals in both camps deal with it. As the teenagers show – change is not always positive.
Because of my misgivings, I cannot give this book five stars – but it does come close and I would definitely recommend reading it. I will certainly be reading the sequels.
I received this copy as an ARC at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
“Old-timers speak of a simpler past when all of mankind lived above the surface. It’s hard to imagine living anywhere but down below” – with the hunger, dirt and poor health.
Fin, Lacy and Drape are teenage Dwellers, who supplement their meagre rations by pilfering from the shipments sent down by the Evolved Human Coalition (‘Leeches’ to their subjects). At the start of the novel, pure chance leads Fin to stealing the one thing from a shipment, that will definitely be missed – a gene modifying kit. By accidentally activating it, suddenly, Fin has all the attributes of members of the EHC – greater strength, intelligence and immunity to the radiation. It immediately becomes apparent to the reader, the EHC have not evolved – rather they have developed technology to modulate the genes of the humans that they deem deserving – and the rest are doomed to unmodified subterranean servitude. There is little natural about the division of humanity, and everything immoral. If not before, from this realisation, the reader immediately starts rooting for the adolescent thieves, and cheering for the downfall of the ECH.
First, Fin has to rescue her friends from the guards. On the way, they make more friends – have to rescue them – more genetic modifications – more friends – more rescues … The story is very fast paced. Fin and her friends are never still for a minute, and are perpetually in danger. Then they make a discovery that makes their continued existence even more precarious. The ECH must stop them at all costs.
There are flaws in this book. Fin has enhanced intelligence, but as a working dweller, must be uneducated – so how does she manage to do so many the things that surely require learning rather than just an exceptional application of logic. All superhumans (see Marvel comics, Buffy etc) automatically know martial arts (that is just the way it is!), so it should not come as a surprise that Fin is able to beat guards who have trained for combat – but it still rankles somehow. The gene modifications have immediate effect in grown humans – surely it must take at least some time to spread throughout the body, when above ground the modifications are done in utero with far fewer cells to deal with. I feel the societies both above and below ground need a bit more fleshing out. What do the Tennant class actually do?
However, one doesn’t read sci-fi/fantasy to look for scientific veracity. This is a (literally) fabulous, and exciting story that keeps you gripped throughout. The basic premise is very good, and bodes well for further books in the series. The changes in the teenagers’ personalities post-modification are really well dealt with. Both societies are on the cusp of seismic shifts, and it will be fascinating to see how the individuals in both camps deal with it. As the teenagers show – change is not always positive.
Because of my misgivings, I cannot give this book five stars – but it does come close and I would definitely recommend reading it. I will certainly be reading the sequels.
I received this copy as an ARC at no cost from the author in exchange for an honest review
March 26, 2020
This is book one in the Manipulated series and sees a small group of friends, Fin, Drake and Lacy, trying to survive in their underground world. They are dwellers, bred and living underground after the Earth’s poles were reversed, and their sole purpose is to mine for valuable minerals for those who live on the surface. Those on the surface can live there as they are genetically modified in the womb, and use their superior powers to make those underground work for them under the Enhanced Human Coalitions rules. If they don’t work, then they don’t eat, simple as that. They know nothing different, being separated from their mothers at birth and given a first name and number only. They live in orphanages until they are deemed old enough to work in the mines.
Fin and her two friends always try to supplement their standard supplies, with anything they can steal from those privileged few bringing down the supplies from the surface. The spoils often go to those in charge of them below the surface and then the dregs are given to the actual workers in the mines. This time, they get caught in the act, but not before Fin finds a piece of technology meant for her pit boss, which she manages to grab, while her friends are taken away. This piece of technology gives each person some sort and level of enhancement, it could be intelligence, strength, and ability to survive the harsh surface conditions.
But with this item in her possession, her and her friends are the number one target for those in charge and those from the surface. It cannot be left in the hands of mere dwellers. Escaping from the security forces, leads them into some old hidden tunnels and they come across a brother and sister pair, Sky and Cia, who have never had to exist or work in the mines. Unfortunately they have also led the security forces to their hidden home and Cia gets taken up to the surface. The friends have no choice but to go after them and try to rescue her.
This leads to the friends having to use the technology to be able to travel to the surface, and not the easy way. They have no frame of reference for the surface and only the stories they have heard. The situation for surface dwellers is vastly different. There are different castes in this society, with Nobles being those at the very top. Others are modified with increased strength to work as security there and underground. There is some resistance to this system of inequalities and the shocking secrets of those put to work underground. They are not all that different, but the place of their birth leads to their very survival chances.
An interesting start to this series and the damage done to the planet as the poles flipped. Inequality between those on the surface and those born to work in the mines under the surface. Technology that can modify and enhance people with the press of a button. A well described new world where the very sky itself is now deadly. Great set of main characters and a wide variety of them as well. Some from the surface have added to the fight and play their role in Fin and company’s very survival on the surface. An enjoyable read and I can’t wait to see what develops next. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Fin and her two friends always try to supplement their standard supplies, with anything they can steal from those privileged few bringing down the supplies from the surface. The spoils often go to those in charge of them below the surface and then the dregs are given to the actual workers in the mines. This time, they get caught in the act, but not before Fin finds a piece of technology meant for her pit boss, which she manages to grab, while her friends are taken away. This piece of technology gives each person some sort and level of enhancement, it could be intelligence, strength, and ability to survive the harsh surface conditions.
But with this item in her possession, her and her friends are the number one target for those in charge and those from the surface. It cannot be left in the hands of mere dwellers. Escaping from the security forces, leads them into some old hidden tunnels and they come across a brother and sister pair, Sky and Cia, who have never had to exist or work in the mines. Unfortunately they have also led the security forces to their hidden home and Cia gets taken up to the surface. The friends have no choice but to go after them and try to rescue her.
This leads to the friends having to use the technology to be able to travel to the surface, and not the easy way. They have no frame of reference for the surface and only the stories they have heard. The situation for surface dwellers is vastly different. There are different castes in this society, with Nobles being those at the very top. Others are modified with increased strength to work as security there and underground. There is some resistance to this system of inequalities and the shocking secrets of those put to work underground. They are not all that different, but the place of their birth leads to their very survival chances.
An interesting start to this series and the damage done to the planet as the poles flipped. Inequality between those on the surface and those born to work in the mines under the surface. Technology that can modify and enhance people with the press of a button. A well described new world where the very sky itself is now deadly. Great set of main characters and a wide variety of them as well. Some from the surface have added to the fight and play their role in Fin and company’s very survival on the surface. An enjoyable read and I can’t wait to see what develops next. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
August 16, 2017
I am reviewing an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Modified by Harper North is the first in a new dystopian young adult series called Manipulated. The book is written in first-person and is from seventeen-year-old Fin's point-of-view.
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. Nothing grabbed my attention and made me want to know what was going to happen. The story felt flat. The plot seemed to be one event happening after another without any story building in between. Just one problem after another being solved by random deus ex machina.
I didn't care about any of the characters, they seemed very generic and one-dimensional. At one point I forgot that Elias and Sky were two different guys, nothing about either of them stands out. Both of them are nice, and that's about it. Lacey was incredibly annoying from the very start and her dialog felt juvenile at best. I don't know what Drape's purpose in the story actually was, if he was taken out nothing much would change. He was there, and that was about it. And then there was Fin, the heroine of the story. She was the main character, but I felt no attachment to her. She starts out pretty well, but after the group's initial escape she starts to need to be rescued from every situation and fails to outmaneuver Nero at every turn. It just got irritating. I guess I just find it annoying when the villains out think the heroes over and over again.
I also (unfortunately for this book) was unable to stop myself from comparing it to Red Rising. The subjugated underground workers, the class system, the elites above ground using the dwellers to mine for them; so many parallels to, yet nowhere near the storytelling, world-building and well-developed characters of the Red Rising universe. If you want a really good oppressed society rebellion story, read Red Rising.
This book wasn't terrible, but it wasn't amazing either. It has potential though, so maybe the second book will be better.
Modified by Harper North is the first in a new dystopian young adult series called Manipulated. The book is written in first-person and is from seventeen-year-old Fin's point-of-view.
I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it either. Nothing grabbed my attention and made me want to know what was going to happen. The story felt flat. The plot seemed to be one event happening after another without any story building in between. Just one problem after another being solved by random deus ex machina.
I didn't care about any of the characters, they seemed very generic and one-dimensional. At one point I forgot that Elias and Sky were two different guys, nothing about either of them stands out. Both of them are nice, and that's about it. Lacey was incredibly annoying from the very start and her dialog felt juvenile at best. I don't know what Drape's purpose in the story actually was, if he was taken out nothing much would change. He was there, and that was about it. And then there was Fin, the heroine of the story. She was the main character, but I felt no attachment to her. She starts out pretty well, but after the group's initial escape she starts to need to be rescued from every situation and fails to outmaneuver Nero at every turn. It just got irritating. I guess I just find it annoying when the villains out think the heroes over and over again.
I also (unfortunately for this book) was unable to stop myself from comparing it to Red Rising. The subjugated underground workers, the class system, the elites above ground using the dwellers to mine for them; so many parallels to, yet nowhere near the storytelling, world-building and well-developed characters of the Red Rising universe. If you want a really good oppressed society rebellion story, read Red Rising.
This book wasn't terrible, but it wasn't amazing either. It has potential though, so maybe the second book will be better.
September 9, 2017
This book was non stop action in a compelling dystopian world. The entire story is told from the POV of Finley, a 17 year old girl whose entire live has been as a slave underground. Life on the surface is only possible for those whose genes have been modified, a privilege only available to the richest citizens. The society Harper North has created consists of several "tiers", which are basically castes. Finley's life take an unexpected turn when she accidentally discovers a mod kit which gives her the ability to resist the radiation on the surface and equates her abilities with the highest tier. Not only her body, but her mind is enhanced, basically giving her superpowers in the underground mines. This also paints a huge target on her back, and on the backs of her friends. During their daring escape, one girl is captured, and the others must find a way to sneak to the surface and rescue her. Their arrival jump starts a revolution for societal reform and better treatment of the underground dwellers.
I loved everything about this book. The characters were wonderful, although from the start we just want to smack Lacy for being so selfish and obnoxious. But you need a "sassy" friend in the group to keep things interesting. You also need evil villains, which are definitely in abundance in this story. There's also a great amount of world development. Unlike other dystopian novels, the entire book doesn't take place in the oppressed society. We don't have to wait until book 2 or 3 to find out what's on the surface. We are introduced to all the major conflicts and all the important groups of people. The plot moves quickly from one perilous scenario to the next as the character pursue and attempt to free their missing friend. I was immediately drawn into the tale and couldn't put the book down until I finished reading it. There's even a hint at a potential romantic connection, still in the very early stages. I'm excited to see where this goes in the next book.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
I loved everything about this book. The characters were wonderful, although from the start we just want to smack Lacy for being so selfish and obnoxious. But you need a "sassy" friend in the group to keep things interesting. You also need evil villains, which are definitely in abundance in this story. There's also a great amount of world development. Unlike other dystopian novels, the entire book doesn't take place in the oppressed society. We don't have to wait until book 2 or 3 to find out what's on the surface. We are introduced to all the major conflicts and all the important groups of people. The plot moves quickly from one perilous scenario to the next as the character pursue and attempt to free their missing friend. I was immediately drawn into the tale and couldn't put the book down until I finished reading it. There's even a hint at a potential romantic connection, still in the very early stages. I'm excited to see where this goes in the next book.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.
August 22, 2017
I reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It reminded me a lot of the Maze Runner books in the way it was paced and worded. The only thing I didn't like was the lack of character development.I just wish I could've gotten to know the characters a little bit better and grown more with them. That being said,I can't wait for the series to continue on so I can keep reading and figure out what happens next!
August 10, 2017
I totally enjoyed this YA novel! It gave me that “ maze runner” feel! Emotions ran both high and low while reading this tale. The book wasted no time forming characters quickly and immersing me into this action packed thriller. A first by this author for me, I am really looking forward to the continuing story! This voluntary review is based against an advance copy.
September 2, 2017
From the depths of the earth comes this new hero, a girl who fights for justice. Great new action/adventure type book! Strong female lead. It does take a bit to figure out all the ins and outs, but a good, face paced book that will leave you waiting for the next installment.
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
August 16, 2017
3.5/5
I received an ARC from the publisher.
The story is absolutely thrilling and moving - just the sort of dystopian novel I love. The characters weren't my favorites, but I have high hopes for their growth in the next book.
I received an ARC from the publisher.
The story is absolutely thrilling and moving - just the sort of dystopian novel I love. The characters weren't my favorites, but I have high hopes for their growth in the next book.
August 4, 2020
Good for young people. Clean, no weirdness, only gradeschool attraction no romance. Young adult because of war violence and death.
August 21, 2017
This book has potential but in the end I felt like I didn't really know the characters or how we got here. Honestly it did feel a lot like Hunger Games as the main character being pretty flat of a character and the whole mining/poor section vs the main city. Clearly there was a nuclear war leading to a "Post-Flipped" world but I still don't completely understand the concept, but I'm sure it will be explained in later books.
The main character, a girl named Finley who is 17-18 years with brown hair/eyes and is the leader of her friends, Lacy and Drape, but she is more cold and flat but does deeply care about protecting people and standing up for what's right. At the end I still felt like I didn't know why everyone was suddenly following and listening to a teenage, who despite her harsh upbringing, was very sheltered compared to the rest of the world. I have a feeling she is going to be related to someone
~super~ important too since she becomes both smarter and stronger. Also there's hints of a romance between a boy named Sky who gets wrapped up in all of this drama when his sister is kidnapped, but again the we know nothing really about these characters so the flirty and romance felt super forced and no chemistry. And then there's Drape and Lacy, honestly Drape reminds me of Chuckie from the Rugrats: redhead, always in trouble he didn't want to get into in the first place, and picked on. Lacy on the other hand, starts off as feisty and mischievous to basically becoming a sociopath, but I having a feeling that's intentional to show that the modification can be negative as well as positive.
Elias and Mason are probably the most developed of the characters, and they are so one of the few POC. . To me if there was to be any romance in this series, it would be between Fin and Elias, which again might be a possibility.
Overall if you like dystopian books like the Hunger Games, Divergent, and Configured than check it out. It's fast read and does have an interesting plot, I just hope characters and history are explained more in the next one.
I received this book as an ARC from the author for my honest opinion and review.
January 7, 2018
Not that great
First off the names are confusing..fin, I thought she was a boy in the beginning. I had to re-read " about the book" section to realize fin is a girl. Then there's sky, a boy, stupid name for a boy but it fits him cuz he acts like a girl aalll the time.
North needs to make sky a lil more manly..he's too scared and corny and annoying ugh.
The book starts off into action real quick..like there's nothing leading up to the moments..it's just BAM an incident happens, they get modified and straight to war the ppl go. So you don't really get to know the characters before they were modified or how they acted with one another.
I would NOT compare this book with any other dystopian ones cuz those are wwaaayyy better.
Hunger games, maze runner, configured, divergent, gone, etc
All these books first off have ppl u hate, as any good book should, but they also have ppl u admire. Modified u can really only like the main character and even she becomes annoying. Also there is no romance, I personally like a lil romance in books, makes me more interested.
First off the names are confusing..fin, I thought she was a boy in the beginning. I had to re-read " about the book" section to realize fin is a girl. Then there's sky, a boy, stupid name for a boy but it fits him cuz he acts like a girl aalll the time.
North needs to make sky a lil more manly..he's too scared and corny and annoying ugh.
The book starts off into action real quick..like there's nothing leading up to the moments..it's just BAM an incident happens, they get modified and straight to war the ppl go. So you don't really get to know the characters before they were modified or how they acted with one another.
I would NOT compare this book with any other dystopian ones cuz those are wwaaayyy better.
Hunger games, maze runner, configured, divergent, gone, etc
All these books first off have ppl u hate, as any good book should, but they also have ppl u admire. Modified u can really only like the main character and even she becomes annoying. Also there is no romance, I personally like a lil romance in books, makes me more interested.
September 23, 2017
*I received a free ARC of this novel. The decision to review, and my views, are my own.*
This YA sci-fi adventure is very much in the style and mode of books like The Hunger Games. The setting is a dystopia divided into the privileged and the deprived, based on birth, money and the ability to survive on the Earth's surface conferred via genetic modification for those who can afford it.
The story follows a group of young, subterannean 'Dweller' friends as they accidentally level the playing field and begin a cat-and-mouse adventure in which every mouse that helps to save them becomes bait in the next cat-trap! (Metaphorically speaking. There are no actual cats and mice. No animals were harmed during the... you know).
The politics of the plot are quite clear-cut, with the elite mostly being sadists who think of their fellow humans as things, other than the few noble privileged who have rejected their birthright to form an equal-rights resistance. This is particularly selfless as there is no benefit for them at all and considerable risk, but they do it on principle. Truly heroic.
The modification process appears to affect different Dwellers in different ways, some of which are outlined, and others hinted at, but I feel there is more to explore here as the series develops; particularly the unusual effect on Lacy, the main character Fin's best friend.
There is some light romance but it is kept on the backburner as the action-adventure aspects take the lead and drive the characters firmly through the initial plotline, and the ending sets things up nicely for a change of pace/tone in book 2: Viva la revolution!
Overall a quick-moving, neatly-written young adult read for Hunger Games fans looking for their next dystopian fix.
This YA sci-fi adventure is very much in the style and mode of books like The Hunger Games. The setting is a dystopia divided into the privileged and the deprived, based on birth, money and the ability to survive on the Earth's surface conferred via genetic modification for those who can afford it.
The story follows a group of young, subterannean 'Dweller' friends as they accidentally level the playing field and begin a cat-and-mouse adventure in which every mouse that helps to save them becomes bait in the next cat-trap! (Metaphorically speaking. There are no actual cats and mice. No animals were harmed during the... you know).
The politics of the plot are quite clear-cut, with the elite mostly being sadists who think of their fellow humans as things, other than the few noble privileged who have rejected their birthright to form an equal-rights resistance. This is particularly selfless as there is no benefit for them at all and considerable risk, but they do it on principle. Truly heroic.
The modification process appears to affect different Dwellers in different ways, some of which are outlined, and others hinted at, but I feel there is more to explore here as the series develops; particularly the unusual effect on Lacy, the main character Fin's best friend.
There is some light romance but it is kept on the backburner as the action-adventure aspects take the lead and drive the characters firmly through the initial plotline, and the ending sets things up nicely for a change of pace/tone in book 2: Viva la revolution!
Overall a quick-moving, neatly-written young adult read for Hunger Games fans looking for their next dystopian fix.
August 24, 2017
For me, the strength of the story was in the friendship between Fin and her two friends from the mine.
I enjoyed Fin's narration for the most part, and how honest she is with herself, and by extension, with the reader.
The little bits of humor in the story were nicely done. I wish there had been a bit more of that.
The world-building could have been stronger. I had trouble visualizing the underground portions of the story or even understanding which substances were so important beneath the surface. Actually, the surface city felt a bit vague for me as well. More details would have been helpful.
There is the beginning of a romance, but it wasn't all that interesting for me. The attraction and sudden softening between the two felt a little forced to me, as though the romance was there because there had been a decision made that it had to be there.
At least two of the big dangerous situations seemed like they could have gone a lot better if characters that were supposed to be better informed used their judgement. And it would have seemed more interesting to me if the main characters were a little better able to get themselves out of situations they kept getting themselves and others into.
Though I believe the story could have been stronger, I did find it interesting for the most part. This is the author's first book, and based on the improvements I noticed between the first and second versions of ARCs that were sent out, her work gets stronger very quickly. I don't doubt that the series will improve as it goes along. I really hope she takes the best parts of this story and builds on them.
I reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I enjoyed Fin's narration for the most part, and how honest she is with herself, and by extension, with the reader.
The little bits of humor in the story were nicely done. I wish there had been a bit more of that.
The world-building could have been stronger. I had trouble visualizing the underground portions of the story or even understanding which substances were so important beneath the surface. Actually, the surface city felt a bit vague for me as well. More details would have been helpful.
There is the beginning of a romance, but it wasn't all that interesting for me. The attraction and sudden softening between the two felt a little forced to me, as though the romance was there because there had been a decision made that it had to be there.
At least two of the big dangerous situations seemed like they could have gone a lot better if characters that were supposed to be better informed used their judgement. And it would have seemed more interesting to me if the main characters were a little better able to get themselves out of situations they kept getting themselves and others into.
Though I believe the story could have been stronger, I did find it interesting for the most part. This is the author's first book, and based on the improvements I noticed between the first and second versions of ARCs that were sent out, her work gets stronger very quickly. I don't doubt that the series will improve as it goes along. I really hope she takes the best parts of this story and builds on them.
I reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 13, 2017
What a fantastic start to a brand new series! Modified is a gripping sci-fi dystopian thriller. I love reading dystopian stories and trying a new author is always risky, but I was not disappointed. From the beginning you are drawn in with interesting characters and the non-stop action ensures you will be reading straight to the end. Fans of the
The Maze Runner
&
Virals
series will want to try this book out. While Modified is written for teens, I feel adults will enjoy this story as well.
Seventeen-year old Fin is a dweller, born and raised in a parentless underground cavern called the Oven. When she is old enough to work she is thrown into the mining shafts to work until she dies. In this futuristic Earth the world has been dismantled and made uninhabitable by extreme radiation. Only the genetically modified are allowed above, for these are the people who have wealth and status. When Fin and her friends stumble upon a hidden device that can enhance abilities and adapt the dwellers to the Earth’s surface, they find themselves on the run from the government who want their technology back. They soon find members of a resistance who hope to start a revolution. Fin and her friends are stuck far from home, but with a few new friends, on a mission to save the world.
I received an ARC at no cost from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All my opinions and thoughts are in no way influenced by this.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
Seventeen-year old Fin is a dweller, born and raised in a parentless underground cavern called the Oven. When she is old enough to work she is thrown into the mining shafts to work until she dies. In this futuristic Earth the world has been dismantled and made uninhabitable by extreme radiation. Only the genetically modified are allowed above, for these are the people who have wealth and status. When Fin and her friends stumble upon a hidden device that can enhance abilities and adapt the dwellers to the Earth’s surface, they find themselves on the run from the government who want their technology back. They soon find members of a resistance who hope to start a revolution. Fin and her friends are stuck far from home, but with a few new friends, on a mission to save the world.
I received an ARC at no cost from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All my opinions and thoughts are in no way influenced by this.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
September 20, 2017
I enjoy reading dystopian novels, and Modified was no exception. I felt like this novel took on a new concept that we haven't seen yet. While it does have society separated into classes, it also has the novelty of some class separation being done out of "necessity" of survival against radiation, while also hiding the full truth of the situation from citizens. Some of the book was a little hard to keep up with - the different class levels, titles of those citizens/classes and the general layout of the globe was sometimes harder to decipher, but not so much that it hindered the pace or feel of the story. I appreciated the morality of the characters to strive for something better and help out their friends (or strangers, in some cases) to "right the wrongs" being done. A little more background information might have been helpful, or a little more clarity on how society was laid out, but this also would have then detracted from the general feel from Fin's point of view of not knowing how society operated above ground. You feel a little bit as confused as her, since she's been a dweller her whole life. I plan to read the next novel in the series, and this book ended at a good "stopping point", from my limited perspective.
Update: the author has since added a "memorandum" to the beginning of the novel, which gives a marginal addition as to the history behind the society
Update: the author has since added a "memorandum" to the beginning of the novel, which gives a marginal addition as to the history behind the society
October 27, 2020
This review is for all the books in the 6-book Manipulated series. I really wish writers of series like this would learn to keep their series to one or two books. When they don't, you are forced to read the same plot elements a ridiculous number of times. In this series, those repeated plot elements are a horribly oppressed group of people who have to fight many, many bloody battles against their oppressors, and are finally united under a leader who turns out to be a shithead who totally betrays them, and so they must fight a million more battles until they are united under another shithead leader . . . . You would think they would have learned something from their earlier betrayals, but no--it happens over and over.
This unforgivable repetition ruins this series and the interesting elements buried inside it. The series is also very unbalanced. It takes place underground, on the earth's surface, underground again, and finally into outer space; but the story line given to each location is very unequal. You are very weakly introduced to the horrors of underground life and it's main characters, and then quickly jettisoned up to surface and all its battles through many of the books, then underground again for more battles, and finally, rather unbelievably and briefly into a utopian outer space. I was unimpressed.
This unforgivable repetition ruins this series and the interesting elements buried inside it. The series is also very unbalanced. It takes place underground, on the earth's surface, underground again, and finally into outer space; but the story line given to each location is very unequal. You are very weakly introduced to the horrors of underground life and it's main characters, and then quickly jettisoned up to surface and all its battles through many of the books, then underground again for more battles, and finally, rather unbelievably and briefly into a utopian outer space. I was unimpressed.
August 16, 2017
It's been a long time since I have read a solid dystopian book. I am glad I came across this one.
Fin, Lacy and Drape are dwellers, living and working their entire lives underground in the mines, barely more than slaves without even realizing it. When they come across a modifying kit, they accidentally launch a series of events that starts a revolution. All because they want to save their lives and the girl who kindly offered help-Cia. Joining their forces with Elias, they become part of the resistance.
The concept of genetic modification is nothing new, but I love the variety of possibilities how to use and twist the idea. In a world full of oppression, the evolution is unstoppable and with a little nudge, one modified human might change the entire course of the world.
I loved to observe the impact and consequences of the modification on the characters. They all changed in a unique way, changing their personalities differently and making the group even more diverse than in the beginning. Adapting to challenging circumstances is exhausting and sometimes insufferable, but I admired their strength to push forward despite the harsh conditions. Great book.
I received an ARC copy and wrote my honest opinion voluntarily.
Fin, Lacy and Drape are dwellers, living and working their entire lives underground in the mines, barely more than slaves without even realizing it. When they come across a modifying kit, they accidentally launch a series of events that starts a revolution. All because they want to save their lives and the girl who kindly offered help-Cia. Joining their forces with Elias, they become part of the resistance.
The concept of genetic modification is nothing new, but I love the variety of possibilities how to use and twist the idea. In a world full of oppression, the evolution is unstoppable and with a little nudge, one modified human might change the entire course of the world.
I loved to observe the impact and consequences of the modification on the characters. They all changed in a unique way, changing their personalities differently and making the group even more diverse than in the beginning. Adapting to challenging circumstances is exhausting and sometimes insufferable, but I admired their strength to push forward despite the harsh conditions. Great book.
I received an ARC copy and wrote my honest opinion voluntarily.
September 13, 2017
I was asked to write a review from an ARC copy.
The book was fast paced from the get go...If you are looking for movement and adventure with every turn of the page, this is the book for you. Finley, our 17 year old POV for the novel, doesn't get much breathing room after the first debacle that starts the storyline. This dystopian novel takes place on Earth after nuclear warfare. In order to survive above ground, you must be genetically modified. Something that is pretty much impossible for the world underground until it is sneaked in and accidentally stolen by Finley. And then everything hits the fan for her and her friends, which you can read all about in Modified.
If you are looking for in depth character growth and description, you will be missing out in this book. Although, it is fast-paced and a page turner, you will not really know the characters and feel connected to the at the end of book 1. Hopefully there is some character growth in Book 2 - Surfaced.
I would be completely comfortable with a pre-teen reading this book. The language is safe and although there are some possible budding feelings between a few of the characters...nothing happens between any of them.
The book was fast paced from the get go...If you are looking for movement and adventure with every turn of the page, this is the book for you. Finley, our 17 year old POV for the novel, doesn't get much breathing room after the first debacle that starts the storyline. This dystopian novel takes place on Earth after nuclear warfare. In order to survive above ground, you must be genetically modified. Something that is pretty much impossible for the world underground until it is sneaked in and accidentally stolen by Finley. And then everything hits the fan for her and her friends, which you can read all about in Modified.
If you are looking for in depth character growth and description, you will be missing out in this book. Although, it is fast-paced and a page turner, you will not really know the characters and feel connected to the at the end of book 1. Hopefully there is some character growth in Book 2 - Surfaced.
I would be completely comfortable with a pre-teen reading this book. The language is safe and although there are some possible budding feelings between a few of the characters...nothing happens between any of them.
August 5, 2017
I received an ARC at no cost from the author.
I hate that I can't say I liked this book more. This was an interesting story and I started off liking the MC a lot, but then I felt as though she did not live up to her smartness. I liked how she was thinking but then she stopped thinking and I started coming up with better plans than she did and she just got less cool. (I tend to overthink books a lot) There was obviously quite a bit of world building to get the whole society and all its levels and tech worked out, it was done well. It reminded me a lot of Red Rising as far as the story line went and also of City of Ember, but it was not on the level of Red Rising. There were a few instances of very light/tame bad language, and quite a bit of violence later on, but otherwise there wasn't any content that I can remember, though I suspect a romance will develop in future books. Maybe I am just a bit to old for the book, but it didn't do anything for me. I was also a little put off by the fact that the human race was evolving and how that was essential to the ending scene.
I hate that I can't say I liked this book more. This was an interesting story and I started off liking the MC a lot, but then I felt as though she did not live up to her smartness. I liked how she was thinking but then she stopped thinking and I started coming up with better plans than she did and she just got less cool. (I tend to overthink books a lot) There was obviously quite a bit of world building to get the whole society and all its levels and tech worked out, it was done well. It reminded me a lot of Red Rising as far as the story line went and also of City of Ember, but it was not on the level of Red Rising. There were a few instances of very light/tame bad language, and quite a bit of violence later on, but otherwise there wasn't any content that I can remember, though I suspect a romance will develop in future books. Maybe I am just a bit to old for the book, but it didn't do anything for me. I was also a little put off by the fact that the human race was evolving and how that was essential to the ending scene.
September 9, 2017
This is a look into a future where children are raised underground to mine. "Modified" people (enhanced with a device that changes their minds and bodies) live on the surface of the planet; a planet where the sun is now close enough to burn with radiation unless you are modified. This is an escape story, with young adults (late teens, for the most part) are escaping the mines when they steal one of the modifier devices. It's a fast-paced dystopian story that follows the teens from the bowels of the earth and up to the surface. They encounter people that want to kill them, people that want to catch them and people that want to help them.
This book is a great ride and I highly recommend it. It may even be a comment on prejudice in today's society. The fact that this author sees it in the future may be a warning for us to consider.
I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book is a great ride and I highly recommend it. It may even be a comment on prejudice in today's society. The fact that this author sees it in the future may be a warning for us to consider.
I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 11, 2017
Modified: Manipulated Series, Book 1
By: Harper North
*Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC from Torment Publishing. The following review is my own, with no input, promises, or compensation from the publisher or the author*.
I am usually not a huge fan of sci-fi books. This one is probably most accurately described as a y/a dystopian novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was so well written that once I started it I couldn’t put it down. Lots of action from the very start and carries through to the end. The character development is well done. I love how there are different levels of “modifications” for the different characters. I like that it isn’t a one size fits all situation. I am definitely looking forward to reading book 2 when it gets released. Ms. Harper North is definitely an author to keep your eye on.
By: Harper North
*Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC from Torment Publishing. The following review is my own, with no input, promises, or compensation from the publisher or the author*.
I am usually not a huge fan of sci-fi books. This one is probably most accurately described as a y/a dystopian novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was so well written that once I started it I couldn’t put it down. Lots of action from the very start and carries through to the end. The character development is well done. I love how there are different levels of “modifications” for the different characters. I like that it isn’t a one size fits all situation. I am definitely looking forward to reading book 2 when it gets released. Ms. Harper North is definitely an author to keep your eye on.
September 11, 2017
What Happens When Gene Modification Is Controlled?
Harper North creates an interesting world that is close to home in space and time. This future Earth has a very stratified society. Findley (the main protagonist) and her friends are relegated to the bottom rung of this society. We barely get to know Findley and her friends before they embark on an adventure that exposes them to every layer of earth and society.
While the story line is follows a common arc (girl get modified - girl learns her new capabilities - girl figures out her place in life), there are enough plot twists and turns and a few interesting major characters that make this an interesting read.
There is a nice mix of action and meaningful relationship building. It is a good start to the planned series of books.
I reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Harper North creates an interesting world that is close to home in space and time. This future Earth has a very stratified society. Findley (the main protagonist) and her friends are relegated to the bottom rung of this society. We barely get to know Findley and her friends before they embark on an adventure that exposes them to every layer of earth and society.
While the story line is follows a common arc (girl get modified - girl learns her new capabilities - girl figures out her place in life), there are enough plot twists and turns and a few interesting major characters that make this an interesting read.
There is a nice mix of action and meaningful relationship building. It is a good start to the planned series of books.
I reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 25, 2017
I received a free copy of modified from the publisher for the purpose of joining the ARC team and this review was not in any way influenced by that. I had this book on my kindle unlimited to read list already because the premise was very interesting to me. Prior to reading this book I read some of the other reviews and was concerned that I would get bored half-way through or that the story would wall flat and wouldn't be completely satisfying. However, I fully enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the next one. This book grabbed me on page one and I finished it in a matter of hours. I couldn't put it down until I reached then end and even then I was left wanting more. Although the characters were not as deeply developed as they are in some novels -- I had little trouble connecting to them and felt for their plight. I love underdogs and this book is full of them.
August 28, 2017
Thanks to the author and the publishers for letting me have an ARC. I had high expectations from this book after reading the blurb. I thought the concept was really interesting, post-flip world, a device that can modify your genetics. As I started, I was reminded of Red Rising, where we have an inferior caste who mainly work in the mines and forced to serve the higher caste. In this case, we have those with inferior genes who are also raised to work in the mines and serve those who are designed to be genetically superior. In both books, the protagonist gets modified in some way to become like the superior beings. It also looks like the story is heading down the path of a girl sparking a revolution, which I seen a lot lately.
I didn't really like it, but I don't hate it. I also didn't like or hate the characters either. Other than that, it's really fast paced and action packed.
I didn't really like it, but I don't hate it. I also didn't like or hate the characters either. Other than that, it's really fast paced and action packed.
September 11, 2017
This one had a great premise but just fell flat for me. Characters had very little depth and seemed younger than their ages. Some of the events were explained away with quick reasons. Why did the modifier change them all differently? I wanted more in depth reason why and what were all the differences. Was Lacey always that type of person or was it all the modifier or both? The characters just take all this in stride and aren't really questioning enough. I liked Elias. Sky just seems to fall into the background for me even with his search for his sister. This book could have been much more but I felt the story was just skimmed over. I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2017
The characters need to grow some, but that is coming I'm pretty sure in book two. This book starts genetically altered humans. They have different modifications, different levels of mods. The world is now split into casts, and our main charters are the lowest of the low. Change and fights, and revolutions are underway. Finley is a 17 year old girl, who has lots of modifications. Something that only the elite have access to doing. Now that she can be on the surface, all kinds of new things are happening. Over all a good read with, hopefully, a stronger sequel coming soon.
My copy was an ARC from the author. My thoughts and opinions are my own. I have reviewed this book of my own free volition.
My copy was an ARC from the author. My thoughts and opinions are my own. I have reviewed this book of my own free volition.
March 11, 2020
I enjoyed listening to this story. I was given a free copy of the audiobook by the publishing company. All opinions are my own.
I like that this isn't a typical YA love triangle and i loved the new experience for our characters. Finn and her friends are underground laborers the bottom of a horrible caste created after teh Earth's magnetic poles shifted. Finn manages o steal a device that manipulates people: this gives them advanced abilities that are well-favored when the break above ground. It will be these abilities that will lead them to a revolution.
The narrator was pretty perfect. She captured Fin's voice well and was able to create distinctive voices for her other characters. I truly enjoyed listening to this.
This is a fun dystopian novel that isn't teh same old, same old.
I like that this isn't a typical YA love triangle and i loved the new experience for our characters. Finn and her friends are underground laborers the bottom of a horrible caste created after teh Earth's magnetic poles shifted. Finn manages o steal a device that manipulates people: this gives them advanced abilities that are well-favored when the break above ground. It will be these abilities that will lead them to a revolution.
The narrator was pretty perfect. She captured Fin's voice well and was able to create distinctive voices for her other characters. I truly enjoyed listening to this.
This is a fun dystopian novel that isn't teh same old, same old.
August 13, 2017
This book hit the ground running and never stopped! A dystopian combination of behind the times bottom dwellers and futuristic science fiction life above. A few bottom dwellers happened upon an instrument that turned them into super powerful humans after which they were able to escape the underworld. But they were constantly chased by those who wanted that instrument back. It was amazing the many surprises and turns of events that happened to this group getting in and out of difficult situations throughout the whole book. I could easily see this book being made into a major motion picture. I highly recommend this book to all lovers of the high action apocalyptic genre.
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