Colonization (Paradise Reclaimed, #1)

Feb 08, 2013 Nancy (The Avid Reader) marked it as to-read

Shelves: aubrie-dionne, cbls-promotions, read-in-2013, read-feb-2013

I was given a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.

Andromeda (Annie) a seventeen year old who has spent her life aboard a ship called New Dawn in deep space. The New Dawn is heading to a new planet they have named Paradise 21 where everyone on board will begin their new lives. Annie unlike everyone else is not ready to reach the new planet and leave the New Dawn. She is not ready for change. She wants everything to stay the same.

With only one month left before New Dawn rea...more I was given a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.

Andromeda (Annie) a seventeen year old who has spent her life aboard a ship called New Dawn in deep space. The New Dawn is heading to a new planet they have named Paradise 21 where everyone on board will begin their new lives. Annie unlike everyone else is not ready to reach the new planet and leave the New Dawn. She is not ready for change. She wants everything to stay the same.

With only one month left before New Dawn reaches Paradise 21, Annie and everyone else her age has to take a test to determined what their jobs will be when they reach the planet. Annie has been a slacker her whole life and is worried about the test and what her new life entails. The test is not the only thing she has to worry about. The computer will also pick her lifemate for her. Annie is worried that she is going to fail the test and will not be paired with her best friend Sirius.

Upon arriving on Paradise 21 Annie starts seeing alien ghost who are trying to warn her of the danger to her and her people. Paradise 21 is not the paradise they believe it to be. Annie and the New Dawn are not the first ones to step foot on the planet. Annie knows she can't tell anyone about the aliens because they will think she is crazy. She realizes she will have to grow up and figure out what is going on and save everyone on her own.

When her friend Sirius' ship crashes and no one knows where Sirius and his crew are. Annie knows where they are and knows that she is the only one who can help them. Annie thinks she will have to find them and save them by herself. But she is wrong, Corvus her lifemate risks everything like his job and his life to help Annie save her friends.

I have read books about people who live on a ship in space before but I have never read anything and I do mean anything quiet like Colonization before. I have not stopped thinking about it since I read the last page. Colonization was one of the most amazing books I have read in a long time. Now I want to read more books in this genre. I can not wait to read the next book in this series. I would really love to read the New Dawn series too to find out how it all came about.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Feb 10, 2013 Maria rated it 4 of 5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review.

A young woman who thinks she knows what she wants out of life, a spaceship taking what's left of humanity towards it's new home, and an unseen danger determined to change all of every one's plans, all clash in Colonization, the first book in Aubrie Dionne's new young adult series Paradise Reclaimed. A spin off Paradise 21, the first book in her New Dawn series, Colonization focuses on...more I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review.

A young woman who thinks she knows what she wants out of life, a spaceship taking what's left of humanity towards it's new home, and an unseen danger determined to change all of every one's plans, all clash in Colonization, the first book in Aubrie Dionne's new young adult series Paradise Reclaimed. A spin off Paradise 21, the first book in her New Dawn series, Colonization focuses on Andromeda Barliss, the great-granddaughter of Commander Barliss, a previous villain turned good guy in the series, and her adventures as their spaceship has finally reached the planet, Paradise 21. With a few likable characters, sharp dialogue and a mystery to solve, Ms. Dionne's story kept me turning the pages.

Andromeda Barliss, the great-granddaughter of Commander Barliss, can't believe they've finally reached Paradise 21. Suddenly resentful of the changes her life will be taking, Andromeda doesn't want to leave the spaceship she's known all of her life. Hoping her childhood friend, Sirius, would be her assigned life-mate, Andromeda resents when she's assigned someone else. Being the only person who can see the ghosts on their new planet, is just the icing on the cake.

Assigned to help her mother grow food for the colony, Andromeda's resentment turns to confusion when she begins to have visions of imminent danger. Unsure about their colony's future, Andromeda isn't sure about what she should do. Ms. Dionne did a good job developing Andromeda's character; at the start of the story she's immature, somewhat spoiled and very insecure. As this story progresses, Andromeda begins to realize she's not as ill prepared for her new life and the partner she didn't want becomes much more important to her - his belief in her helps to make her more secure.

Will Andromeda discover the danger headed straight for their new colony? Will Andromeda learn that sometimes what we want isn't really what we need? You'll have to read Colonization to find out, I enjoyed it and I think you will too. I look forward to reading more in this space opera world.
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 30, 2013 Layla Moon rated it 4 of 5 stars

It's no secret I am a huge fan of Aubrie's. Colonization is another winner! This YA novel is a must read. First of all, the cover is GORGEOUS! Of course the story is appealing, a perfect mixture of sci-fi, fantasy and real life issues, everything I've come to anticipate from this wonderful author.

Seventeen year-old Andromeda has spent her entire life on a space vessel. As if she didn't have enough pressure with surviving teenagehood and dealing with her secret love for childhood friend Sirius, h...more

2 likes · like · see review

Dec 04, 2012 Giselle at Book Nerd Canada rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, blog-tour, from-publishers

Annie was born in space. The ship New Dawn is the only life she’s ever known. When she hits her 17th birthday and has to take her tests to determine her career path and lifemate, she finds herself on the losing end because her lifemate isn’t Sirius, her lanky best friend turned hottie, but with Corvus, “the oaf.” When the New Dawn citizens start to colonize Paradise 21, strange things start to happen that makes the citizens sick. Can Annie get over her romance problems to help find the cure for...more Annie was born in space. The ship New Dawn is the only life she’s ever known. When she hits her 17th birthday and has to take her tests to determine her career path and lifemate, she finds herself on the losing end because her lifemate isn’t Sirius, her lanky best friend turned hottie, but with Corvus, “the oaf.” When the New Dawn citizens start to colonize Paradise 21, strange things start to happen that makes the citizens sick. Can Annie get over her romance problems to help find the cure for and save her colony?

Annie is a complex character, and your average whiny lovesick teenager. She complained a lot and I didn’t understand why she never studied and even assumed she would get her lifemate of choice just because she was the great granddaughter of the commander. Work for it lady! But I do have to say I’m incredibly glad she grew as a character. Corvus was just a treat. Kind, sincere, and steady, he was exactly what any girl would love in a boyfriend. I was always happy to find him on the page that I was reading because it included him. Sirius on the other hand was selfish and full of himself. Who does that to your best friend you’ve known your whole life. *shakes head*

Beautiful imagery and world building, I felt like I was reading a movie that came to life. Killer flowers, purple sky, crystals that accelerate plant growth, it’s definitely a planet unlike Old Earth. I loved the world building that Aubrie wrote about. It felt real and not imagined, just like any planet we would find in our day and age. The plot is fast paced with no room to breathe which I absolutely loved. The writing flowed well with the plot, the characters, and the setting. Loved the sci-fi aspect of it immensely.

If you’re a fan of sci-fi and space adventure novels, then this book is for you.

Character Development
Characters mature and grow up fairly well.

Pacing
So fast, so good, and no slow scenes.

Cover/Design
Pretty, but the title could have been done better. Make it larger too.

Plot
Wonderful mystery, a little predictable, but still done well.

Overall
Enjoyed it immensely. Love sci-fi and space novels. Any fan would love Colonization!(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Nov 07, 2012 Ellen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, blog-tours

In this futuristic story Andromeda, better known as Annie, finds herself at 17 years old, about the face the greatest and most challenging thing in her life. Annie has spent her entire life on a spaceship, which her great grandfather is the commander of. They are about to reach their destination, and not only must she cope with that, now that she is 17, she must take a test to find out her job assignment, as well as being assigned a life mate, which is all done by computer. She longs to be paire...more In this futuristic story Andromeda, better known as Annie, finds herself at 17 years old, about the face the greatest and most challenging thing in her life. Annie has spent her entire life on a spaceship, which her great grandfather is the commander of. They are about to reach their destination, and not only must she cope with that, now that she is 17, she must take a test to find out her job assignment, as well as being assigned a life mate, which is all done by computer. She longs to be paired with her best friend, the oh so hot Sirius. When this doesn't happen and she finds herself partnered with Corvus, and is very distraught. As they land in this new world and acclimate to it, establishing their colony there, strange things begin to happen, which Annie finds herself right in the middle of. She also begins to find herself having feelings she thought she never would for Corvus. Corvus is a hottie to, but in a different way than Sirius. When a strange illness threatens the lives of two people, and Sirius disappears after Andromeda convinces him to help her find the answer to what is going on, it is up to Annie to save them.

With Corvus' help, the two of them set off to find Sirius and his crew, and hopefully find the answers that will save the colony. Their perilous journey also brings Annie and Corvus closer together, as she sees a whole new side to him that she hadn't opened herself up to before. They must race against time and the elements to save not only her friends, but the entire colony, but as circumstances get more serious, will they be able to do this, and convince everyone of the truth before it's to late for them all?

Colonization is a YA science fiction/fantasy/romance that I enjoyed. The story was original and entertaining. At first I wasn't sure if it was for me, but soon found myself engrossed in the story. I loved Andromeda/Annie, who ended up being quite the heroine. I also really liked Corvus, he was sincere and desired nothing more than to help and support Annie, and he turned out to be hero material himself. I enjoyed the relationship that developed between these two, as Annie struggled with her feelings for both Sirius and Corvus. Both Annie and Corvus were kind of slackers in school, but impressed me in that they rose to the occasion and really proved themselves. I liked Sirius also, but he tended to let what those in charge thought of him take priority over his relationships. Annie has to face her feelings and choose between the boy she has always loved and the boy who is now winning her heart. There was quite a bit of adventure, paired with the science fiction and fantasy elements, as well as romance. Overall, I enjoyed this story. If you are looking for a quick and enjoyable read, and are a science fiction fan, then you might want to check Colonization out. (less)

1 like · like · see review

Oct 31, 2012 Aria rated it 3 of 5 stars

Review can also be found here.

I received an ARC of this sci-fi romance from the publisher—thank you very much Inkspell Publishing—and I have to say that Colonization has promise.

Colonization is an easy read for those who know the basics of sci-fi, but for those who don’t, it’ll be a little confusing at first. The story flows well and the format is great. However, the description department is a little lacking. For example, the reader is introduced to Andromeda (or Annie, as she prefers to be cal...more Review can also be found here.

I received an ARC of this sci-fi romance from the publisher—thank you very much Inkspell Publishing—and I have to say that Colonization has promise.

Colonization is an easy read for those who know the basics of sci-fi, but for those who don’t, it’ll be a little confusing at first. The story flows well and the format is great. However, the description department is a little lacking. For example, the reader is introduced to Andromeda (or Annie, as she prefers to be called) and her Great-grandma Tiff at the beginning. It would be great to provide some more description on how Great-grandma Tiff looked like there like whether she had a head of short, white hair that’s on the wavy side or the color of her eyes. Not many readers like a long paragraph describing how someone or something looks as they deem it a waste of space, but a little more description (or ‘useless’ facts) won’t hurt. It will help a lot when it comes to imagining the scenes in the book, especially for those who have not read sci-fi before but picked up this book to give it a try, and it will also give the readers more knowledge about what or who they’re reading. Furthermore, it will make the characters seem more human and real. The readers can be more absorbed into Annie’s world as well.

Other than that, the balance between dialogue and normal paragraphs is alright. Annie is like a lot of other girls, she has her flaws and her strengths. I like how she isn’t perfect and I also like how Annie isn’t conflicted between Corvus and Sirius throughout the whole book. She made her decision and I’m glad she stuck to it. As for Corvus, he is a very sweet guy. He is perfect for Annie because although Sirius is a good guy, I can’t picture him with Annie as more than best friends. Sirius doesn’t deserve to be matched with Nova, though. He’s too good for that stuck-up snob.

Overall, I liked reading Colonization and I’m looking forward to when it is published and the following book(s).(less)

like · see review

Aug 25, 2012 Christine Rains rated it 5 of 5 stars

Andromeda likes her life just the way it is. Her comfortable world is changing, though. She's now the age where she'll be assigned her role amongst the crew and be matched with her life mate. Not only does that stress weigh down upon her, but the ship will be arriving at their destination, Paradise 21, at the same time. Her hopes crumble as she's assigned a job with her mother working with plants, and she isn't matched with her best friend and secret love, Sirius. Instead she's paired with a you...more

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 19, 2012 Henrietta rated it 4 of 5 stars

Andromeda enjoyed her life on the spaceship. Everything felt familiar and she didn’t feel like she had to put in much effort into anything that she did. But with the spaceship reaching its destination, planet Paradise 21, Andromeda started to realize that her life would never be the same – her carelessness could cost her dearly and if she didn’t work quick enough to decipher the truth about why there weren’t any intelligent beings living on Paradise 21, the whole crew could suffer from irreversi...more Andromeda enjoyed her life on the spaceship. Everything felt familiar and she didn’t feel like she had to put in much effort into anything that she did. But with the spaceship reaching its destination, planet Paradise 21, Andromeda started to realize that her life would never be the same – her carelessness could cost her dearly and if she didn’t work quick enough to decipher the truth about why there weren’t any intelligent beings living on Paradise 21, the whole crew could suffer from irreversible devastation before they began building their colony on the planet.

At first, I found Andromeda careless, self-centered and immature. She seemed to be a smart person but had very little intention to focus her energy towards doing things that would make her demonstrate her leadership ability. Maybe she had doubt about her capability or maybe she didn’t want to accept responsibilities, she just kept assuming that she was a nobody. It was quite frustrating to watch her complain and when she behaved inconsiderately, I winced. Fortunately, she didn’t stay the same way throughout the book. Watching her evolve was actually quite inspiring. It wasn’t anything like she became a better person with the flip of a switch. She changed a little and then she slacked and became frustrated at herself. Then, she got angry and scared and lost but decided she wouldn’t give up just yet. It’s through watching her grow that I started to connect with her. And when she came to realize what she really wanted and started acting as though there were no tomorrow, I was moved. I felt in awe by her courage and I started to really like her.

But the character that I like the most is Corvus. Although he’s being labeled as “the oaf”, he is no oaf to me. He is humble. He pays attention to details. He knows when to say what and while he is a man of few words, he never ceases to amaze me by his sincerity and thoughtfulness. Let me tell you, every girl deserves a caring, supportive boyfriend just like him!

What about Andromeda’s childhood friend, Sirius? He’s smart and fairly nice, but maybe he’s too sure of what he wants and how to get things in his favor that I just don’t find him attractive. I wouldn’t say he’s arrogant or bad, but he is no gentleman compared to Corvus.

Overall, I enjoyed the story. While some events were fairly predictable, I still had a great time reading the book because of Corvus. So, if you’d like to meet Corvus, you know what you must do… Get. The. Book.

Happy Reading! :)

--
This review was originally posted on my blog.

A copy of the book was provided by publisher for review purposes.(less)

4 likes · like · see review

May 10, 2013 Dianne rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: action-and-adventure, author-review, coming-of-age, fantasy, futuristic-ya-fantasy, own, sci-fi, strong-female-characters, ya-romance

Andromeda has spent her entire seventeen years onboard a spaceship travelling to a planet where humans may have to make their last stand as a civilization. Paradise 21 is now in sight and her comfortable life is about to change. The normally mediocre Annie finds that REALLY living life can be a dangerous adventure and a part of her she never knew existed comes roaring to life-just in time! Could the fate of her people rest in her hands? Will they listen to her, trust her? Will it be up to her to...more

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 08, 2012 Tishia (Paranormal Opinion) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Colonization is the first book in the new Paradise Reclaimed series by Aubrie Dionne. It's a sci-fi romance revolving around a 17 year old girl named Andromeda. She has lived aboard a space ship all her life along with the other colonists. They are heading toward Paradise 21 – a planet that their colony can hopefully thrive on. Before landing on this mysterious planet, she is given an aptitude test to see which boy she is matched with and also to see what job best suits her abilities on the new...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 27, 2013 Nadège Richards rated it 4 of 5 stars

My thoughts and review:

Thoughts: This is the first time I've had the pleasure of welcoming an author to my personal blog, so I'm very ecstatic! When I got the tour invitation for Colonization, I jumped on it immediately. Not only is the premise different and captivating, that cover is gorgeous! Kudos to the designer!

Review: I have the killer instinct to sense a really good book. Colonization really grips you from chapter one and never lets you go -- not even in the end! I had goosebumps througho...more My thoughts and review:

Thoughts: This is the first time I've had the pleasure of welcoming an author to my personal blog, so I'm very ecstatic! When I got the tour invitation for Colonization, I jumped on it immediately. Not only is the premise different and captivating, that cover is gorgeous! Kudos to the designer!

Review: I have the killer instinct to sense a really good book. Colonization really grips you from chapter one and never lets you go -- not even in the end! I had goosebumps throughout and fans of GLOW by Amy Kathleen Ryan and even the movie PROMETHEUS will appreciate the twists and turns Dionne hurtles at the reader.

I really enjoyed being in the mind of Andromeda, especially since she reminds me of myself. She's tough when she needs to be, badass when it's a must, and delicate and vulnerable when she's given no alternative. Her relationship with Sirius (Corvus who? -- although, he's not so bad) is sweet and innocent, albeit it's so strong. You only get a bit of their background, but you know from chapter one that they've been best friends for a long time. And is that not the sweetest of loves? Especially when they end up together! But there's a twist and they actually don't end up together. I wanted to throw my kindle at the wall at that point, but I reigned in the frustration. I liked that although they tried to fight their connection to each other, it was practically impossible.

I'm not going to lie -- Colonization freaked me out! In a good way, of course. Ever watch a scary movie and someone is attacked by slimy tentacles? *shivers* Well, a lot of that took place and I found myself with goosebumps at every turn of a page! I wouldn't classify this book as horror, though. It's exactly what it says it is -- a Sci/Fi Romance. Colonization really takes you on a journey (to Paradise 21!) and reels you in as the story progresses. I admire Dionne's writing style and the world she built. Very unique and 'out of this world.' This is a book I need on my shelf!(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 29, 2012 Aliaa El-Nashar rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: owned

As you guys know, I was a part of the cover reveal for this book a few months ago, and now it's finally time for my tour stop!

This book was seriously nothing like I thought it would be. It was pretty cool. I loved the stunning cover obviously, along with the synopsis they are what made me really interested in joining this tour!

I have just recently finished reading Delirium and for some reason this book reminded me of it. There were similarities, except well, this one is more science-fiction and...more

like · see review

Dec 06, 2012 Kendell Jordan rated it 4 of 5 stars

In this Sci-fi novel, the romance portion sneaks up on you before you have the chance to realize it’s a romance novel. This is Volume 1 of the Paradise Reclaimed series and I feel it’s an excellent way to start the series.

Andromeda, “Annie”, is a member of the 8th generation on the colony ship New Dawn. Earth’s sun was failing and the residents constructed 21 of these ships to continue the human race. Each ship headed to a different world with the hopes that one would survive and thrive into...more In this Sci-fi novel, the romance portion sneaks up on you before you have the chance to realize it’s a romance novel. This is Volume 1 of the Paradise Reclaimed series and I feel it’s an excellent way to start the series.

Andromeda, “Annie”, is a member of the 8th generation on the colony ship New Dawn. Earth’s sun was failing and the residents constructed 21 of these ships to continue the human race. Each ship headed to a different world with the hopes that one would survive and thrive into a new civilization.

Annie lives life hoping that things will continue on as they have. She prays they never reach Paradise 21. She enjoys the life she has lived with her best friend, Sirius. Annie dreads the finality of Paradise 21. Each generation has lived by ‘The Guide’, a computer program that assigns everyone what they need to continue surviving. When they arrive at Paradise 21, the Guide will assign Annie a job and a life mate. She fears she will fail her school tests and get a low level job, and she dreams that she gets Sirius as a mate. She decides her job as a Species Integration Specialist isn’t so bad, but her mate is Corvus, someone she has always referred to as ‘the oaf’.

She begs her grandfather to change her mate but he refuses. While trying to do her best to cope with the situation she has been forced into she starts to see alien life forms, but the catch is she’s the only one that can see them and no one else believes her. After being frightened out of her mind several times by the encounters she realizes they are trying to tell her something.

Soon the head of security is found in a coma and all Annie’s focus is bent on trying to find the cause of his coma. She wants to prove to everyone she can do her job as she tries to make up for what she considers recent failures. After the head of security dies from an alien virus Annie finally discovers her true gift.

The character development in this book is true to life as the plot twists and turns in the final chapters. During her experiences on Paradise 21 and living the role she has been forced into Annie finally realizes where she belongs. But is it too late? Will Annie be able to do what her grandmother told her she was destined for? Has her determination and resolve grown enough for her to save the colony? What will happen to her if all of her new dreams come true? What if they don’t?

The story is an action packed plot with enough twists and turns to keep you turning the pages. As all of the plot lines are finished with the ending of the book I am not quite sure where the next volume will go, but I do know I can’t wait for it to come out and find out how Paradise 21 is treating Annie. Or should I say how Annie is treating Paradise 21?
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 22, 2012 Sarah (Head Stuck In A Book) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, blog-tour, dystopian, e-book, review-copy, young-adult

I wouldn't say that I'm really a fan of science-fiction books, however Colonization was so entertaining and interesting that I mostly forgot the genre I was reading, and that's all thanks to the fantastic writing that kept me intrigued and anxious to see what was going to happen on the next page.
Andromeda 'Annie' has been onboard a ship in deep space for all of her life headed to a planet named 'New Earth' after the Earth we know is no longer habitable, before they land she and all the kids her...more

1 like · like · see review

Aug 19, 2012 Kathleen Allen rated it 5 of 5 stars

I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of Ms. Dionne's book and I have to say, I loved it. I've read all of her New Dawn series and this one has a similar flavour.

Andromeda has spent all 17 years of her life on a spaceship with the other colonists heading to a new planet. She has a crush on one of the boys in her class, who just happens to be her best friend. When the mate assignments and the aptitude tests assignments are given out, Andromeda is upset. Then when they finally land on their new pl...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 20, 2013 Rinelle Grey rated it 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book! Right from the start, it was easy to identify with Andromeda, a teenager who is far more interested in going on adventures with her best friend (and secret crush) than in studying for the tests that will determine her placement in the new colony on Paradise 21. Aubrie Dionne's descriptions of the alien planet were vivid and made me feel as though I was there. I love how she managed to make the environment inside the ship seem more normal than outside.

But what I loved most abou...more

1 like · like · see review

May 06, 2013 Heather rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: wonbooks

This book was FANTASTIC. I loved the characters, their development throughout the book, and the set up of their new home world. I was caught up in the love interests of the main heroine and felt that her love plight was believable and comparabile to real life. Want it, but can't have it. I was pleased with the risks she took and her personal development and maturing. I'm really hooked on this series and can't wait for the second novel. My heart hurt for the pains and gains the colony goes throug...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 16, 2012 Elvenjen rated it 3 of 5 stars

It's a nice book, a fun, easy read. I like the characters and story a lot. However, the writing could use some polishing. I know this is a YA book but it's just too much of an easy read. It's way too fast. The character comes to conclusions with very little information presented to the reader. Situation-problem-discovery of solution, just like that. I think the book could've been much better, more along the lines of Hunger Games and Divergent, if the author had just taken her time and expanded o...more

like · see review

Apr 15, 2013 Kara rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wow, what a great book! Dionne had me at A Hero Rising so I knew when Colonization came out I had to get a copy. The story starts with a conversation between Andromeda “Annie” and her great-grandma Tiff insisting that Andromeda is destined to be the savior of their colony. Tiff is over 300 hundred years old and dies soon after this encounter, but this short conversation illustrates the closeness Andromeda has with her and the impact of that relationship lives on in the story.

Andromeda is 17 year...more Wow, what a great book! Dionne had me at A Hero Rising so I knew when Colonization came out I had to get a copy. The story starts with a conversation between Andromeda “Annie” and her great-grandma Tiff insisting that Andromeda is destined to be the savior of their colony. Tiff is over 300 hundred years old and dies soon after this encounter, but this short conversation illustrates the closeness Andromeda has with her and the impact of that relationship lives on in the story.

Andromeda is 17 years old, is the great-granddaughter of the ship’s commander, and there is an expectation of her both from her family and the rest of the colony that she has some great destiny to fulfill. The problem with that is Andromeda thinks like a typical teen girl, she dislikes school and is unhappy knowing she doesn’t get a choice in her lifemate or in the work she’ll be assigned to, she’s in love with her best friend Sirius and they can’t be together, and Andromeda is very hesitant about landing on strange planet when she’s comfortable with the life she knows in deep space. She’s also insecure throughout most of the story thinking that she does poorly on her test results. Unfortunately, all of that is about to change in a big way.

I liked Andromeda immediately in the story. She’s loyal, she has a great spirit of adventure, she questions authority like most teens but in a healthy way, and she’s determined to do the right thing. Watching her become stronger and discovering the truth about Paradise 21 was such a pleasure for me to read about! There’s only two words of profanity in the story, there is reference to psychic abilities within Andromeda and her family line but I simply looked at that as a gift of instinct of being open minded (there’s nothing about palm reading or reading someone’s mind) because this helps her solve mysteries in the story that no one else catches on to.

Andromeda has to overcome deadly plants, possible aliens, and dealing with her feelings about falling in love with someone other than her best friend ALL while adjusting to this new planet and protecting the colony. There’s one part in the story where Sirius rejects Andromeda and I was really stunned by that. Sirius is a great character, but he can’t seem to make up his mind and he becomes less likable in the story because of this. I really don’t care for love triangles, but Dionne does such a great job with this one that it enhanced the story instead of annoying the reader.

There is slight violence in the book, there’s a crazy killer plant on the planet that shows up more than once, one teen dies, Andromeda gets hurt a few times, and the one time Andromeda tries to alert the proper authorities to a valid emergency she gets pushed aside which didn’t make sense to me, but I do believe that justice is served at the end and there’s room for a sequel as well (yes please!). I’m not into science fiction, but I finished this book in one sitting and I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy YA books.

I want to thank the author for providing a review copy. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 25, 2012 Rachael Woohoo rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, dystopia, 2012, ebooks-i-own, review-copy, blog-tour, book, reviewed

Check out more of my reviews @ here on November 28, for an character interview with Sirius & a chance to win paperback copies of this book and a special locket :D

Since the huge explosion of so much YA dystopians after "the trilogy", I'm not sure where I am in terms of my opinion of the genre. Right now I suppose I'm in that middle haze - I'm still a little cautious of it, therefore, I guess, increasing my standards, although I'm still a fan of the genre. Nevertheless, I thought that Coloniza...more Check out more of my reviews @ here on November 28, for an character interview with Sirius & a chance to win paperback copies of this book and a special locket :D

Since the huge explosion of so much YA dystopians after "the trilogy", I'm not sure where I am in terms of my opinion of the genre. Right now I suppose I'm in that middle haze - I'm still a little cautious of it, therefore, I guess, increasing my standards, although I'm still a fan of the genre. Nevertheless, I thought that Colonization was a short but insightful and pretty enjoyable dystopia to read :D

I have to admit that I was a little put off in the beginning by Andromeda or "Annie's" actions. Personally, if I failed a test and just heard someone say that I only rely on my connections to achieve good things, I wouldn't go ahead and pressure those connections. Eventually I guess, you have to learn to deal with the mistakes you made. However, during the short span of the book you really get to see Annie grow from just a young child to a more understanding adult. By the end of the book, I loved that Annie was a much stronger heroine by making decisions on her own and taking the initiative for her actions!

The plot was also pretty well-paced and quick! I actually finished this book within a few hours while I was waiting for my sister to finish her Black Friday shopping and for a movie to start. It never really slowed down or made me bored (: Along the way, the author also skillfully weaves a good balance of some mystery, science elements, and romance. The mystery and science definitely were the highlight of my reading experience - in a genre such as dystopia, I guess I kind of expect science to be in the book, since I want it to be scarily realistic. While mankind probably isn't discovering a planet like Paradise 21 anytime soon, the mystery of it all made the story seemed realistic enough.

As for the romance, except for some angst in the beginning, as I mentioned before, it wasn't too bad, or to spectacular for my taste. Personally, I'm not a romance addict so maybe the type of relationship between Sirius, Annie, and Corvus wouldn't appeal to my tastes, but at times, the love triangle sort of plot seemed a bit overused. Of course, the overuse of the love triangle isn't limited to this book, but at times, I found it a little predictable. There's also the issue that some of the romance seemed a little rushed, mostly because of the length of the book. However, eventually I grew to be fond of Annie & Corvus's relationship, which evolved from a shy friendship to an innocent love (:

There also seemed to be a small paranormal element in the book that was mainly unsolved. It wasn't a particularly good or bad thing in my mind, but for the sake of world-building, I'm still a little curious, haha ^__^ Hopefully the next book could explain it a little for me :D

Overall, Colonization was a quick and enjoyable read, a nice addition to my dystopian collection. While I found some of the romance elements in the plot to be a little annoying, the mystery, science, and quick pace of the plot made up for it (: I recommend this book to fans of both the PNR and dystopian genre!(less)

like · see review

Nov 29, 2012 Michelle Sedeño rated it 3 of 5 stars

Read my full review post on my blog,
Michelle Shouts Random

***

Before I read this book, I thought I'd liked it. I don't know what happened why my rating of Colonization dropped into three hearts.

Maybe the fact that the mystery of this book was about a deadly plant, all along. I don't see the special-ness of it. It was new for me, yes. It isn't really about aliens or any scary creature that they could found in a new planet. But I still can't feel it.

The main female character, Andromeda, and the POV...more

like · see review

Nov 08, 2012 Kimberly rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-bookshelf, blog-tour-reads, dystopian, sci-fi, sci-fi-romance, ya, ya-romance

I think this book may just have made me a sci-fi fan! I've read a few sci-fi novels over the years but it's one genre that I am still very cautious of reading these typse of books. This book was done in a way that wasn't wasn't too out there for me and I ended up really liking this book.

I do have to admit though that I wasn't familiar with the book or the author until I did a cover review of this book a couple months ago but I'm very glad I was able to get a chance on the blog tour for Colonizat...more

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 03, 2012 Stephanie Ward rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, blog-tour, ebook

Andromeda has been living aboard the New Dawn her entire life. She's used to it - she likes it that way. That's part of the reason she is so hesitant to start a new life on Paradise 21 - her new planet. Andromeda fails her colonization tests and is sent to serve a menial life on the new planet with her lifemate - Corvus, "the oaf." But soon after setting foot on the planet, alien ghosts begin haunting Andromeda with warnings that her people are in danger. Her best friend and the guy she is secre...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 04, 2013 A Voracious Reader (a.k.a. Carol) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: e-book, inkspell-publishing, ya, sci-fi, romance

3.5

The colony ship New Dawn has been traveling in space for centuries. One of many ships bound for various planets the inhabitants of New Dawn lost contact with the other colonists long ago. They may well be the only humans left from a doomed world and they need to make it Paradise 21 and not just survive, but thrive.

Like the colonists before her, Andromeda Barliss has spent her whole life on board the ship. However, unlike those that came before her, at age 17, she will be landing on Paradise 2...more

like · see review

Nov 04, 2012 Miss J rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: science-fiction, space, love

When I first read the summary for Colonization I got extremely excited because I absolutely love science fiction and I love space. So I found this idea to be very appealing and interesting.

The New Dawn is a space ship that left old earth generations ago in search for a new viable planet to live on. It's destined to land on Paradise 21, a planet covered in forest, that isliveableand has no threats. Well so all the tests thought. Andromeda is a teenage girl that is about to take the exams that ass...more When I first read the summary for Colonization I got extremely excited because I absolutely love science fiction and I love space. So I found this idea to be very appealing and interesting.

The New Dawn is a space ship that left old earth generations ago in search for a new viable planet to live on. It's destined to land on Paradise 21, a planet covered in forest, that is liveable and has no threats. Well so all the tests thought. Andromeda is a teenage girl that is about to take the exams that assign her to her profession, which she must stick to for the rest of her life, and to her life mate, whom she has no decision in choosing.

Andromeda has never really studied hard, she would rather hang out with her best friend Seth whom she realises she has forbidden feelings for. She is terrified of what life will be like when The New Dawn lands on Paradise 21. All she wants is to live her life she's already living and spend her days with Seth drifting in outer space. Unfortunately for Andromeda that's not how life is to be. She gets assigned a menial job and her lifemate isn't Seth.

When The New Dawn lands on Paradise 21 everyone is ecstatic, except Andromeda. What makes things worse is she starts seeing weird alien beings that no one else can see and no one believes what she's seeing is real.

Colonization is a young adult science fiction book that had me speeding through the pages wanting to find out what happened next, what decision Andromeda made, and wondering if what she was seeing was real. Were there really ghosts? Was she going crazy? Who was going to believe her? I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It had me hooked. It was just the right mix of adventure, action, romance, and science fiction!

I thought the romance was extremely sweet in places. It had me smiling and giggling to myself as I read. The pace was just right, I was always interested in what was going on and I wanted to know what happened next. I found it difficult to put this book down to be honest. Which was okay because I finished it faster that way.

Overall, I really loved this book. It was exciting, entertaining, the romance was sweet and I read this book extremely fast because I was so invested. I thoroughly enjoyed it and couldn't help but be taken along for the ride.

Colonization is an exciting young adult science fiction book with a side of sweet romance. It has you gasping, giggling, smiling and keeps you glued to the pages until you're finished!

I definitely recommend reading this book if you enjoy young adult science fiction romance!

Miss J
x (less)

1 like · like · see review

Nov 13, 2012 carole rated it 4 of 5 stars

Colonization's cover was what completely drew me in to wanting to read this book, I did a cover reveal for Inkspell back at the end of July (found here) and when I saw that there would be a blog tour for the book I was ecstatic!

Aubrie takes the best of both worlds when she creates a space book that scifi geeks like me will love, and crosses it with an adventure/finding oneself story that everyone in between will love (and I'm not even mentioning the love story that we all enjoy!). Set in deep sp...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 29, 2012 Cherie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Forbidden love on a paradise planet that’s anything but paradise, Aubrie Dionne’s COLONIZATION will keep you guessing.

Andromeda’s life is pre-planned. She’ll take her tests, and her job and lifemate will be chosen for her. But everything is about the change on the New Dawn. After many generations, they are landing on Paradise 21, their new home. She has to face a life outside the confines of deep space and a new job. Worse, the boy she loves is chosen for her enemy. Andromeda doesn’t know how sh...more

2 likes · like · see review

Dec 05, 2012 Lisa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya, dystopian, 2012

As the New Dawn's generations-long journey through space comes to an end,so is the world as Andromeda knows it. Paradise 21 is the promise of hope and new beginning, but Andromeda dreads it, especially when her future life mate is not the guy she envisioned. She wanted it to be her best friend, Sirius, so being paired with Corvus, whom she barely knows, is another challenge she must face, along with being assigned her role amongst the crew.

Paradise 21 is not the safe haven its name suggests and...more

1 like · like · see review

May 01, 2013 ♥ Sarah rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: dystopian-post-apocalyptic, ya-na, sci-fi, romance

Short, simple, sweet, clean fun. I actually enjoyed reading this very much. But it almost felt like a novella; the character development was sparse, and there was even less dialogue. The pacing was kind of fast, and the world building didn't take my breath away. However, this was a happy, feel-good story, probably intended for younger YA readers. Still, I was really happy with the ending and will likely read the sequel.

1 like · like · see review

Jan 29, 2013 Gabby (What's Beyond Forks?) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
Colonization had the perfect amount of alien adventure in an unknown land, with the thrill of growing up, finding love, and danger and drama all thrown in for good measure. I fell into a lull or two while reading, but for the most part I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. For someone who doesn't typically enjoy reading science fiction, I think this is a big deal. Colonization by Aubrie Dionne was provided to me by the CBLS Promotions for review. The opinions...more

like · see review

topics	posts	views	last activity
Forbidden Love	3	9	May 19, 2013 03:15am
Booksy Cup Freebi...: Win an ebook copy of Colonization, by Aubrie Dionne	1	6	Mar 19, 2013 09:50pm
Symbolism of the Cover	1	8	Aug 05, 2012 09:36am

title link	preview: Colonization
avg rating	preview: Colonization Goodreads rating: 3.78 (95 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://discoverreads.com/book/show/15769793-colonization?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1343648739l/15769793.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://discoverreads.com/book/show/15769793-colonization?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Colonization by Aubrie Dionne[/url]

Colonization (Paradise Reclaimed #1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Aubrie Dionne

Books by Aubrie Dionne

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Colonization

Colonization (Paradise Reclaimed #1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topicDiscuss This Book

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Aubrie Dionne

Books by Aubrie Dionne

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Colonization

new topic
Discuss This Book