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The Fall #1

In Between Seasons

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Publisher's Note: ALL reviews dated prior to July 2014 are NOT representative of this novel, its content, current publisher or editors.


In 2021 the world as we know it changed. The government collapsed, and the worst characteristics of human nature were shown as the world fell into ruins. Years after The Fall, the Tribes that were established are still at war. They still fight to keep what they pillaged, and most of all, they fight to keep their lies a secret. In a world filled with deception, nothing is as it seems.
I was born into this world.
Hunter Marks was molded into this world; a General— a person cold and harsh. A person meant to kill me.
We were told to just believe.
We were taught to never question.
We’re supposed to be robots and accept our roles in this altered society.
Too bad Hunter and I don’t follow the rules.
And we’re a hell of a lot stronger than they ever thought possible.
They’ve been searching for the world’s deadliest weapon.
It’s me.
And I’m not following the leader any more.

512 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published May 31, 2010

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About the author

Cassandra Giovanni

18 books630 followers
Cassandra doesn't remember a time when she wasn't writing. In fact, the first time she was published was when she was seven years old and won a contest to be published in an American Girl Doll novel. Since then Cassandra has written more novels than she can count and put just as many in the circular bin. Her personal goal with her writing is to show the reader the character's stories through their dialogue and actions instead of just telling the reader what is happening. Besides being a writer, Cassandra is a professional photographer known for her automotive, nature and architectural shots. She is happily married to the man of her dreams and they live in the rolling hills of New England with their daughter and two dogs.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
260 reviews104 followers
September 5, 2012
Kate Ericson has always known her life is a lie. Despite knowing that a war has been raging for the past sixteen years, she doesn’t know how it started, why it’s happening or indeed anything about her world, and refuses to believe the stories she’s been told, all of which are flawed. It’s a shock when she’s kidnapped by Hunter, a general from another tribe, even more so when she finds out its thought she knows of a secret weapon that can be used against the tribe Hunter belongs to, run by his father – who is, she discovers, her father’s greatest enemy. Gradually, Kate learns more about the type of world she’s living in and comes to realise there really is only one person she can trust.

This was absolutely not what I was expecting. Even taking into account the notice (which I read far too late) beneath the GR synopsis, this book is far more character-focused than I would have thought. The book centres on Kate and Hunter both as individual characters and as a couple, with the world used only as a background. There was a significant lack of detail which I think worked in one way but perhaps failed in others. It very much helped to emphasise the characters, thus achieving the author’s goal. At the same time, I think I would have liked some time taken to be introduced to the world more fully, at least the world as Kate knows it. The writing had a distinctively rushed feel to it, and it was not long at all before the action kicked off. There were so many opportunities here for detail, and it would have helped with the confusion I couldn’t help but feel at times. Having said that, that confusion didn’t last long and I could quickly pick up what was happening.

Kate was a likeable character. It was good to see that, even if she didn’t know the truth, she still recognised the lies. Because of that, there wasn’t any time wasted in her trying to hold onto her old beliefs – already she was a stronger character, ready to move on, and that saved frustration. She wasn’t hesitant in leaving her old life behind and when the time came, she learnt how to fight, knowing it was necessary. What I would have liked to see in her character is perhaps some sort of emotional conflict to help her be more believable. When she found out the full truth about her family, she was quite accepting of it and was more than prepared to defeat them. It was up to another character to tell her that she didn’t want to kill someone she was supposed to be close to. She also had a habit of spilling everything at once and openly criticising things that were accepted by everyone else, which wasn’t a particularly sensible thing to do.

Hunter had me straight-up melting. Being a general and kidnapper, you’d think he’d be cold and indifferent, right? Not so. I felt really sorry for him because he had to keep up that facade in front of his comrades and his father. Especially his father. He had to go along with their crude jokes and opinions and basically not show his soft core. Around Kate, he was completely the opposite. He was allowed to show he cared, and it was more than evident that he did. It was sweet to see how she could see the turmoil in his eyes while everyone else looked at him and thought he had no emotions. The relationship between them was, I felt, a bit too quick to develop – and Kate was too quick to trust him – but somehow it wasn’t as annoying.

Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable book despite the flaws. I was surprised to find myself with something that was more romance than dystopia, but seeing as I’m something of a romance junkie (there, I admitted it!), it wasn’t too much of a problem for me. I would have liked a lot more world-building and explanation, and there were a lot of grammatical errors, but it wasn’t too hard to see past the latter and in the end, I just kept on reading. I’m definitely looking forward to reading Walking in the Shadows, which is being released next month.

A big thank you to the author for providing me with a copy in exhange for an honest review.

This review is also posted on my blog.
Profile Image for ***Cheryl***.
762 reviews28 followers
August 1, 2014
4.5 stars

A great New Adult Post-Apocalyptic Romance.
The story is set in the year 2041 after “The Fall” in 2021. The book is the story of Kate and Hunter. The story opens with Kate in her tribe questioning everything that she knows that is until one day when she is ‘kidnapped’ by Hunter from another rival tribe. On her journey with Hunter, Kate questions everything that she knows and learns more about the world she lives in through Hunter.
The really liked both Kate and Hunter. I loved their chemistry and although categorised as a young adult story there is still a strong element of romance and sexual tension between Kate and Hunter. I loved Hunter he is very much a alpha male and is very likeable. The story flows really well and there is a good pace that kept me hooked throughout the book. There is no cliffhanger but I do feel that there is so much more to explore in Kate’s and Hunter’s world.
Overall a great story with romance, action and drama all in one book.
Profile Image for Lauren.
3,323 reviews122 followers
October 15, 2012
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed the concept of this book and the uniqueness of the idea.

I did feel that the development of the story was lacking. The whole dystopian world was never brought into focus or what happened before the story started was never explained.

Also, the development of the characters was lacking. It didn’t feel that the author was really able to get into the mind of Kate. In the beginning Kate seemed almost too resistant to everything going on around her and when she was supposedly being kidnapped she didn't even try and put up a fight. When she is kidnapped with her endless questions in the first chapter she doesn’t raise any of these with the man that now has her captive, I just didn’t get it. Then she puts off everything she has ever known and very easily disengages from her past like it was nothing. Hunter for being brought up in the environment he was in with mistrust and having to guard himself at every moment let Kate in relatively easily. The hidden persona he needed around his own tribe came out a couple of times but it seemed weird how open he was with Kate in front of everyone. She was a potential threat to their society and she had all the freedom of the place.

I wanted to know more about Mara and Allan. The reasons behind why everyone was fighting and how life came to be centered around tribes was never fully explained.

The lack of security around Kate’s tribe appalled me. If Kate's dad was that militarily advanced to pull off advanced attacks against other tribes he shouldn't be so naive to leave his own tribe unprotected. It was overly easy for Hunter just to walk right up and grab Kate and then just to turn around and leave.

I was also confused about how many elements there were of an organized society when everyone was living in these tribe formations. Who is now making these pop tarts or running the electricity for all of the different tribes or putting on TV programs?!?
44 reviews8 followers
August 20, 2012
First let me begin by saying that the book cover for Ms. Giovanni's book is one of the better ones for me. I like that she didn't try to slap a model on the cover. Instead she opted for ugly, beautiful.
This cover goes well with her book seeing how, In Between Seasons is a YA dystopian. Good Job!

So let's discuss the book itself.
The book was shaky at first for me. I chalk this up to the fact that Ms. Giovanni dropped her readers right into the middle of the action, with her MC, Kate, getting kidnapped within the first pages of the book. Normally, I'm all for straight on action but in the case of In Between Seasons, I think some explanation about the world itself would have really helped set a firmer foundation and introduce the readers to the world Kate lives in
Also, Kate's family should have made more of an appearance. They were mentioned all throughout the book but I didn't feel like I KNEW them. Considering the role Kate's family played later in the book, I think a much better acquaintance was needed.
Along with an introduction of the family and world, I think the whole tribe setup should have been discussed/explained more better. I had an inkling what Ms.Giovanni was trying to get at with the warring tribes but in the end, I was never really sure about the whole setup.
To put it shortly, it was all very vague. As for the plot itself, I believe Ms. Giovanni had a well hashed out book. She kept up with her story line and didn't add any unlikely events that would make me skeptical, which is always a plus. Also, big props to Ms. Giovanni for her ability to keep me from foreseeing the ending. (Ms. Giovanni, you sly writer you! I never suspected)

As for the writing style of Ms. Giovanni, well it is blatantly unique almost to the point of off putting for myself. Yet, somehow it worked for In Between Seasons. I didn't find any issues with the descriptive phrases or word building. I did find that there was more conversation within the pages of this book rather than descriptive narrating. Still, I don't see how that's a bad thing.
Like I said before, it was shaky at first but as the book progressed it seemed as if Ms. Giovanni found a comfortable pacing and the book did even out as I progressed, so no real complaints there either.

The characters for In Between Seasons.
I really liked that the two main characters were so open in their relationship with one another and yet at the same time tiptoed around each other over it. It was breath taking to see an author really put out some hesitancy about love between two who obviously were attracted to each other. So major props to Ms. Giovanni there. Also, let me just say the depth she gave these two characters in regards to their hidden emotions from family and friends, WOW. So often, we hide our inner self from others for different reasons. Ms. Giovanni mirrored that in her two characters and I can't gush enough about how that resonated with me.
Overall, I think Ms. Giovanni needed to add a little information about the world her characters live in, their families, and the tribe governing. Just this information alone would have really pushed this book into a higher level for me. Still, her character depth made In Between Seasons a good read and her writing style was a breath of fresh air in the midst of a stagnant world of writing styles.


Be sure to check out a ten question interview with author, Cassandra Giovanni hosted @




Profile Image for Gillian (Tattooed Book Review).
223 reviews71 followers
August 12, 2014
This review and more at www.tattooedbookreview.com!

“I felt safer with this man than I ever felt with those who were supposed to love me.”

Post-apocalyptic fiction meets Romeo and Juliet in this exciting forbidden romance. It’s a unique story of two young people trapped in a harsh reality they have no control over; they are important players in a violent game, and their romance put their lives in jeopardy.

There were things I loved about this story and a few things I had trouble with. I’m a fan of post-apocalyptic and dystopian fiction and enjoyed the plot set up: forbidden romance set in a future world of warring tribes. Hunter and Kate’s romance is another strength to the story with a slow build-up and plenty of sexual tension. Their relationship is full of intense emotional moments broken up by witty banter and just enough humor to balance it all out. The story as a whole has action, suspense, and adventure as well as plenty of plot twists and turns to keep it exciting. The overall pacing of the story is what left me wanting more. In the middle of the book the plot slows down a bit and things start to feel a little repetitive. It did serve to build anticipation, answer important questions, and solidify Hunter and Kate’s relationship, but it felt long in comparison to the pulse-pounding, dramatic, but relatively short ending section.

The main characters were another strength in the story. Kate is a strong female, but very relatable and not without her vulnerable moments. She fits perfectly with the stoic, smart, (and super gorgeous!) warrior that is Hunter Marks. They have genuine chemistry and I couldn’t help but want to see this couple find a way to be together even though their relationship seems impossible, no to mention deadly.

Overall, this is an exciting, romantic, and engaging addition to the post-apocalyptic genre. Though this book has a satisfying conclusion, there is the opportunity for the story to continue. I would love to read more of these characters and their story, and see what else their world has to offer.

“Love hadn’t existed in this world. Only hate, deceit and lies, but by letting him in I’d let all of that crumble. By letting me in he’d done the same, and now we were engaged in an even deadlier game than before.”

*I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Profile Image for Anne Huart (Books & Tea).
66 reviews26 followers
August 7, 2014
I loved the concept of this dystopian world. I found it plausible, yet original. Discovering this world through the eyes of Kate, who's always been lied about, and is desperately seeking the truth about the world she lives in but knows nothing about, was a brilliant way to include the reader in the story.

I feel Cassandra succeeded in giving us just the right amount of details about the life in the Tribes to enjoy and understand fully the story but without giving too much information, which might have drawn attention away from what this book is really about: the pursuit of the truth, and of course the relationship between Kate and Hunter.

"No one has ever told me the truth, Hunet. That's all I want. I just want to know the truth. I don't care what it is. I need to know, and you're the only one who knows it."


That being said, so much remains to explore in the following installments of the series, that you can't help but look forward to the second book.
There is no cliffhanger though, which is really appreciable to me... and anyway, you don't need one to want to know what happens next!

I found the love story between Kate and Hunter incredibly well written. I loved how it started with immediate attraction, but then developed slowly throughout the book, to become something way more important. As usual, Cassandra succeeds in creating characters that you can't help falling in love with. *insert swoon here*

"I've never had a reason to survive-no reason to question the way things were. I lived because I was told to... now I live because I want to. I survive because I want to know what is outside the deception we're buried in, and I want to experience it with you. You're the only person I've ever trusted, and now you're the reason I'm going to fight."


The rhythm of the book was perfect to me, alternating cleverly action scenes, life with the Tribe and scenes with Kate and Hunter alone, and I just couldn't put it down.

I think this is my favorite book from Cassandra so far, and I do feel that her novels just keep better and better... So, can't wait for the next one :)
Profile Image for Aimee.
277 reviews5 followers
August 30, 2012
Kate and Hunter live in a dystopian world where your family (or tribe) defines who you are, and who you will become. Their families are rivals, and when Hunter kidnaps Kate, they are both surprised to find that they actually like Kate and Hunter live in a dystopian world where family (or tribe) defines who you are, and who you will become. Their families are rivals, and when Hunter kidnaps Kate, they are both surprised to find that they actually like each other. This is their story, and it chronicles about 9 months of time where they both discover who they are through each other’s eyes. Kate is a rather complicated character that is simple, and a bit cold, on the outside. Hunter is untouchable, machine-like and he feels like no one knows him.

When I first started this book, I thought I didn't like it. The language is stiff, the descriptions sparse, and Kate is hard to understand and/or like. About half way through though, I realized that the book written in a style that allows the reader to feel a bit like Kate does. When I gave over to that, I liked it very much. However, it was short. I wanted more… I also found some of the other characters to be worthy of stories should Ms. Giovanni turn this in to a series. Mara and Rob, and how they met Hunter in particular, seems like it could be interesting. And if it could be written in a way that is Mara-like, all the better.

Overall, I would recommend this book for teens and older. The 3.99 price point makes it a good deal. I’m going to guess that some readers will give up early on. I would urge you, however, to keep going. You’ll get a nice surprise.
Profile Image for Heather.
58 reviews6 followers
August 21, 2012
In Between Seasons is refreshing novel with a new concept to look at. Kate and Hunter were great characters with spunk but loving sides to them. They didn't take crap from anyone but needed to find each other to discover themselves in war between power. I wish the story went longer ..Hopefully book 2 so we can follow Kate and Hunter journey !!! The writing and plot were well developed... Great book and Author !! I recommend to anyone who want a great read !!!
Profile Image for Matilda L..
74 reviews44 followers
September 5, 2012
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of „In between Seasons“by Cassandra Giovanni (who is not just really talented but really nice, too :D) through a Read and Review program on Goodreads. And here is what I thought about the book:

The story takes place in a dystopian version of North America set in the near future and follows the protagonist Kate Eriksson.
The world is at war. Kate is 18 years old and lives with her family somewhere in the middle of nowhere. All she knows is that something is very wrong with the world she lives in and all her parents tell her is a lie. One day she meets Hunter and he gives her the chance to learn something about the truth. But Hunter is not who he seems to be. They both find something in each other they would have never expected.

What I liked the most about this book was the clueless ness of the main protagonist Kate and that she knows not much about her world. The story is told from her point of view and is therefore really mysterious. The reader does not find out what exactly happened to the world. I needed to think about the book while I was reading it and to put the parts of the puzzle together while Kate was doing that, too. It was not too easy as in other books but on the other hand not too confusing. This really turns the book into something new and unique in the wave of dystopian/ post-apocalyptic stories that become more and more mainstream these days. And I always love it when a book starts with some action and you don't need to fight your way through a dozen chapters before something finally happens.
Everything Kate ever thought to know or not know crumbles around her as she learns the truth about her family. Cassandra Giovanni gives Kate a unique voice and her actions, even more important her feelings and thoughts are understandable and don’t seem to come out of no where.
Hunter on the other side is mysterious and dark but gives Kate and with that the reader the chance to see him from a different side. I really liked how everything turned out with them.
Both, protagonists and supporting characters are three dimensional. The author knows what she is doing and has a nice easy-to-read writing style.
Every character seems to hide a secret or pretend to be something he isn’t. There is a lot of mysteries going on and a lot of truth to be unfolded, but that never distracted me from the romance. The author is able to connect the storylines perfectly, one of the main reasons I liked this book so much. I never needed to think about the book as much as I thought about this one to be able to write a review. There is something mysterious about the story that just keeps you reading and reading. As desperately as Kate struggles to find the truth and deal with it, I wanted to find out what was going on and raced from chapter to chapter.
Sometimes the story slowed down a little, but it was never so much that I would call it a negative aspect.

I didn’t like the ending that much, but I can’t tell you a lot about why I didn’t like it, since I don’t want to spoil anything. It was a good ending, but it was just not my type of thing :D It was in my opinion
Because of the fact that the ending was the only negative thing about this book the positive things outweigh and the story convinced me completely.
All in all I recommend this book to fans of the genre and everyone who wants to try something new. It is a book that makes you think but can still count as a light read.

And I’m pretty sure that we will hear some more from Cassandra Giovanni in the future. If her next book is like this I will definitely check it out.
Profile Image for Annabelle.
136 reviews17 followers
December 31, 2012
Wow! I loved this book! When I was given the opportunity to review this book and be apart of the blog tour, I jumped at the chance. I hadn't heard of the novel before but the synopsis really intrigued me. I read this book in a day but I really didn't want to let the characters go, I wanted to keep them there and read all about their futures and what happened next. The characters were so strong and lovable and together they were perfect. I loved the chemistry between them and how even though they were so different they were the best things to happen to each other. It really was opposites attracting although when the begin to get to know each other they are more similar than they first thought. I just loved this book!

In Between Seasons begins with Kate minding her own business at home when a stranger comes and kidnaps her. That stranger is Hunter and he's just doing what his father is telling him. Kate realises that Hunter isn't evil she can see how the orders are strangling him and he's doing things against his will. Kate realises Hunter has done her a favour by taking her away from all the lies that surrounded her. All her life she's been hidden from the harsh world outside of her home and she didn't even know the power her father held in this ruined world. Kate has to question her past to try and figure out what her fathers secret weapon is. They haven't gone far before her past catches up with her and this is the first look she gets to see just how blind she had been. The people she was closest too and trusted are now are out to get her and remove the threat. Hunter tries to protect her but this doesn't stop Kate seeing the reality of what her world has become. Danger follows close by and soon she will be in the enemies territory.

In Between Seasons is very character driven and I loved that about the novel. It was really interesting watching the two of them find out who they truly are when their families aren't breathing down their necks. Both were bought up in a very controlled state, Hunter was bought up to be the ultimate solider where Kate was stuck out in the country believing her family were poor. Instead their families were the two leading ones in the world of ruin. I loved how the characters developed and learnt the truth about their world. Also how they fell for each other, it was so sweet watching it happen. It just makes me grin thinking about it, I want to read it again so I can experience it once more.

Kate had always been questioning her father about the world and she knew something wasn't quite right but she just went on with her life. At first she seemed like a cold girl but we soon see her warming up. She had a hidden humour under the shell and she was brilliant. Hunter too was hilarious, his facade is a soldier but as soon as they hiding in a safe place his shields fall down. This is partly Kate's doing and there's chemistry right from the start and it was so brilliantly written. Each of their pasts had shaped their personalities but they bought out the best in one another and they were so perfect. I'm going to stop rambling on about their perfect love now.

In Between Seasons is a fast paced novel with a love story at it's heart. The characters are truly spectacular and I loved them all. This really is a rare gem of a novel. It has a great plot, detailed characters and very fast paced action. I loved this book! I think you will too!
Profile Image for Dylan Quinn.
Author 10 books49 followers
August 20, 2014
In Between Seasons (The Fall, #1) by Cassandra Giovanni

*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

It's hard breaking free from the Tribe...but someone has to do it.

In Between Seasons by Cassandra Giovanni is set in a dystopian society after The Fall in 2021, which resulted after a government breakdown from the 2012 recession. The government has collapsed and Marshal Law has erupted, leaving the country a disaster. Those who survived the war chose sides by forming tribes and staking claim on land; building compounds in the middle of the country. Now twenty years after The Fall, Kate Erickson, daughter of one tribe leader faces the challenges of what comes next in a world she struggles to understand.

It’s Kate’s last day of school. She’s 18, and it’s time for her to take her place with the rest of the woman in her tribe, doing whatever it is women are supposed to do. The problem: Kate is not like other women. Although indoctrinated by the history books and legends told by her own father, she questions things that don’t quite fit. In a world where girls are taught not to question, Kate finds her voice and breaks the status quo only to find her an outcast in her own family.

Though Kate has been dating Trevor, a boy chosen for her by her family, she feels little for him. With not much of promising future ahead, Kate hopes for more than what happens to lie in front of her and seeks a way out by writing her own books. Since those she is supposed to trust refuse to give her any truthful answers, she spends her spare time filling books with her own conspiracy theory’s as to what happened before and during The Fall, and now what lies outside her tribe’s compounds. As Kate becomes brave, she soon realizes that the theories she thinks to be stories are closer to the truth than she ever imagined.

Within weeks of joining the women in her tribe, Kate finds her way out. When Hunter, a sexy general from an opposing tribe is assigned to kidnap and kill Kate, they soon realize what follows will be the beginning of the rest of their lives.

In Between Seasons focuses on Kate and Hunter’s journey in a post-apocalyptic society, struggling to find where they fit in a world neither of them agree with or completely understand. I liked both of the characters. Both Kate and Hunter tried to be what their families expected but ultimately chose to be true to themselves. In their own way, both did what they were told…until they found each other.

This New Adult romance focuses more on the developing relationship between Kate and Hunter, as well as their individual journey’s of self-discovery rather than the “what happened” part of the story. Finding balance between character development and plot points can often be difficult in character-driven stories, but Giovanni pulled it off with an entertaining story.

Although at times there wasn’t much happening and the ending came and went a bit too quickly for my taste, I enjoyed the story. I thought the premise was intelligent, and the struggles Kate and Hunter faced were realistic and relatable. And the teasers—I couldn’t wait to see how Kate was the weapon they needed to survive. I’m looking forward to seeing what the rest of the characters in this series have in store for them.
Profile Image for Cyndi Becker.
1,345 reviews8 followers
August 2, 2014
4 1/2 Stars and recommendation in the NYA/Romance/dystopian genre.

I’m typically not a reader of the sci-fi genre but I enjoy Cassandra Giovanni’s books and found that once again, Cassandra’s story telling and writing is on the mark. In In Between Seasons, Cassandra does a commendable job painting a picture of what these societal “tribes” might look like in 2031,ten plus years after the disintegration of society as we know it. I think you have to have an amazing imagination to consider what American society would like in a post-centralized government. What I find fascinating is what an author must decide to include that makes the story relatable. I think that must be the trick to writing a dystopian story line~making it relatable for all your readers. Which is exactly what Cassandra does.

In Between Seasons is told through the eyes of Kate and is centered on herself and her “abductor” Hunter. Cassandra has a wonderful knack for writing about relationships that are in the making, about young adults falling in love but fighting their feelings for one reason or another. Many of her characters also know what it’s like to face parents that don’t quite accept the person or young adult that their children have become. Kate and Hunter sadly endure both.

In a world where tribes have been formed under guidance by families who saw the fall of government coming we are going to find people at war. On opposing sides in this ‘tribe” world, Kate’s ties to one tribe make it necessary for Kate to play the role of a lost young women in need of protection. Hunter’s ties to another tribe leaves him in the role of her protector and through his character we see that this is as much a story of a dangerous undertaking as it is a romance. Much of the story is set in Hunters camp and we see a new strength in Kate as she develops survival skills that she never knew she needed. We have some angst as their relationship is slow to develop, but it does seems fated. They both recognize the importance of trust in each other in order to make it through all the unknown obstacles. The overwhelming theme is that they have find the “truth” and it’s up to them to recognize that honestly with each other, feelings for each other is a major part of that.

There are a half a dozen or so secondary characters that drive a lot of the plot, adding intrigue of what humans might act like in this post apocalyptic world. One thing is for sure, I’m left without a doubt that as relationships and falling in love are a challenge in the now,this is true in any society and most certainly in our future worlds. This is where the story transcends the dystopian setting ~ seems that some things never change.
Profile Image for Christina (Ensconced in Lit).
984 reviews289 followers
July 11, 2012
I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. I give this book 2.5 stars.

In Between Seasons is about a forbidden love in a dystopian YA. Kate knows everyone around her is lying, and a mysterious boy, Hunter, who kidnaps her, makes her realize the truth.

What kills me is that the premise could really work. There are strengths to this novel-- both Kate and Hunter are very likeable characters. I liked their chemistry and their scenes together, and I also think because these were the strongest scenes, this is what the author most liked writing about. But unfortunately, it seemed like she wanted to write a romance novel with the bare bones of a dystopia.

I had some big issues with this book. First, there wasn't enough background of the world. We get one or two sentences here and there but that's about it. Usually, I have the opposite problem-- there's too much background. I got very confused as why the world was so backwards after only a decade, and then finally in the middle of the book I realize that there was some sort of big war. This is all very vague. The wars between families doesn't really make sense to me either. That gets me to my next issue-- I need more development of the important supporting characters. I think that Kate's family should be more important because in the end, this will give more emotional punch. I want to know more about her sister and her father. Kate should have some sort of feelings for them, but it seems like she just woke out of a sleep and they are merely strangers to her. I also want to know more about Hunter's dad. He could have made a great villain, but instead he is merely in the background. Third, I'm not really sure what the plot is. I know we have a forbidden love and Kate finds out some awful stuff, but there is no plot arc where Kate grows and develops. She just kind of stays the same. Fourth, there is WAY TOO MUCH DIALOGUE. I think that if you are going to write a first person narrative, you have a great opportunity to reveal more about that character. At the end of the book, I didn't feel like I knew Kate any better than Hunter did. I need more description. I don't want to be told every single thing in dialogue. My last couple of points-- too much telling, not enough showing. And this book could really use a really good editor-- a lot of grammatical and spelling errors (especially "you're" instead of "your").

Overall, I think that the author had a good idea and had a potentially interesting setup, but because of the flaws detailed above, I wasn't convinced.
Profile Image for Tiffany Loves Books.
131 reviews13 followers
December 4, 2012
In Between Seasons is definitely an interesting novel. It is a dystopian novel that I found to be different. Giovanni weaves history and truth and paints a post-apocalyptic world that is believable and realistic.

The novel does not necessarily start off slow but it takes me a little while to feel as if I am connecting to its characters. It starts off with action and it surely piqued my interest. However, I felt myself not really into the novel. It took me two or three chapters to get into the story and feel a connection to the characters. With that being said, I enjoyed the main characters. The story is told in first person POV from Kate's perspective. I like her determination, strength, guile, intuition and perseverance. Hunter on the other hand, is her love interest. They share a lot of the same characteristics but man is he swoon worthy. :) He does so much to protect Kate and he kind of becomes her knight in shining armor, her beacon in the darkest of nights. I enjoyed the way Giovanni portrays them- cold and indifferent. Yet, that's simply how they look to the world. With each other, they let their guards down and we get to see the real them. I enjoyed seeing the two sides to these characters. Also, the connection they both share lead them to go against the molds their families have for them and there is just something about their forbidden love that makes it all the more beautiful.

The truth is that the biggest attraction to this novel is the romance. Any romance lover or romantic at heart can read this novel and totally swoon over it. It's nice in the get to know each other way. Kate and Hunter have crazy chemistry and they endlessly tease each other. They're romance reminded me a bit of the Montague's and Capulet's- Two rival families who are at war but amidst all of that an unexpected love forms between two of its members.

Overall, In Between Seasons is a great read. The emotions are very real and I enjoyed the themes presented in this book: Love, betrayal, loss, revenge, hatred, humor, friendship... I also loved what I found to be the moral of the story- that love has the power to heal, give strength and bring out the best in people. That love is a force and with determination it conquers all.

*I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review

*To see more of my reviews be sure to visit my blog at TiffanyLovesBooks
Profile Image for M.R. Jenks.
Author 1 book8 followers
August 12, 2012
Cassandra Giovanni has, if not invented a new genre here, certainly revived a little-used one – the Post-Apocalyptic Romance. We are introduced to a world which by its very nature is one filled with tension and the potential for danger. The earth which Kate and Hunter exist in is one in which human civilization has been wound back about 900 years – a Middle-Ages, feudal, war-like society in which different factions strive for territory, control, and dominance, with the ultimate goal being to wipe each other out. It is a hard world, with little regard for humanity or compassion; the irony is that this post-apocalypse was brought on by man himself in his greed and lust for power. The focus on male gender is deliberate here, for it is most definitely a male controlled society. Kate and Hunter are from two of the families which hold large power bases and vie for control of territory. In Between Seasons is the story of their meeting (under less than ideal circumstances) and the discovery of each other as soul mates, in which they share a common desire to escape the bonds which hold them and crush their spirits. They are from opposite, warring factions (a la Romeo & Juliet) but they find kindred spirits in each other, as well as the ever-increasing possibility of something more developing. The tension created by their budding romance parallels the increasing tension of the story plot, as things grow ever more dangerous around them and they grow more desperate to escape to Freedom. There is the fear of being “found out”, of their humanity and realness being exposed as well, two things which are not looked on favorably in their society. There are several surprises interspersed throughout the book, as well as two big surprises at the end (which I won’t give away) which add to the richness of the story and make you realize there is far more going on in this story and its world than meets the eye. If I were to have any complaints at all, it is that I would have liked to have a little more background on their families and how the world they lived in regressed to become the way it was, perhaps with a well-placed flashback or two. But this is more of a personal thing – the author wanted the reader to be able to fill in the blanks in his or her mind, to make the story more their own, and I think she pulled this off well. Given Amazon’s full star rating system, In Between Seasons has earned the coveted 5 Stars! Highly Recommended.
Profile Image for Kim.
16 reviews13 followers
August 17, 2012
In Between Seasons starts off with a war, and Kate, who's feeling like she just doesn't belong to her family. She feels out of place. Feels like people are lying to her. And then. One day, she gets kidnapped by Hunter, the handsome, smoldering, lovely, hot guy character.
It kills me because this shows so much promise. Cassandra Giovanni kills me because she shows so much promise.
I had serious problems with this book. Not that it was bad, because it wasn't. I was just so taken with the premise of this book, that I was a bit disappointed with the things I was given. The story is very closed, and focuses on the two main characters, which are likeable, crush-worthy people. I liked their strengths. I really liked Hunter. Oooh. Like, take me, Hunter.
And Kate is a capable, strong heroine who learns to be badass. She isn't afraid to do what it takes to protect her people. She doesn't curl up when things get bad. And I love her little mini-strike against Hunter at one point.

But. Both of them stay kind of the same. They're static characters. They stay the same from start to end. I still like them, they just don't grow. Start to end, they fall in love with each other, are unsure if both of them love each other, and yada-yada-yada.

description
Cute chart I found, eh? I love Google.

And that's all that happens. The fact that there's a war doesn't have its touch on the story. Besides people occasionally coming and trying to kill Kate. And the events don't really add up.

Well. Anyway. If you're looking for romance, here's where you'll find it. But not anything about the war. *sigh*
I'm looking forward to see how Cassandra Giovanni will improve, though, and I'd recommend you to try to snag the next book she writes, because, well. Some moments are kind of swoon-worthy, as my extremely feminine hormones tell me. Am I being awkward?

Find this review (and me!) at snugglemybooks.wordpress.com
Profile Image for Michelle Mcroberts.
463 reviews34 followers
October 27, 2015
Let me start by saying that I do like the premise of the book. I like the characters and the concept of focusing on the characters - but then again I love a good character study or psychological study in fiction. It was an easy afternoon read I could enjoy without any heaviness, which is why it garnered the 3 stars. The lack of heaviness is also why I can't give this book any more than that.

So...If you're looking for romance, the love story is written well. If you are looking for dystopian, not so much.

To be fair, though, the author does give a disclaimer on the Goodreads entry for the book that it is intended to be character focused with the backdrop of a dystopia. However, my struggle is this: if it was intended to be a character study, it could've been better. It doesn't delve any deeper into the character's feelings than the love story for any significant length of time and/or content.

Also, I struggled with the realism of the situation. Even though Kate is unhappy - OK, miserable - at home, she doesn't show nearly enough fear in this situation. As this story is written from a first person perspective, the reader would expect to see the fear she feels at being forcibly taken from her home by someone she doesn't know - regardless of how astoundingly attractive the captor might be. The trip and "getting to know you" portion of the book could have been MUCH more interesting and more developed. And as the book is so short it would have helped lengthen and flesh out the story.

Lastly, I really struggled once again with editting. Self-publishing authors need to be all the more diligent in grammar, word choice, puncuation, and all other mechanics before they call a book finished. Major word choice errors that occurred often were: through/threw and than/then. And in some places, there were just wording issues that led to confusion for me.

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sara.
937 reviews18 followers
June 26, 2017
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. It was about a 3.5 stars for me, but I have rounded up.

In 2012 the United States started going downhill and everyone went into war destroying each other and seperating into family clans. Now it is 10 years after and things are about to change for Kate Ericson. She has never felt like she belonged with her family, and hasn't felt like she trusts them. So when she is suddenly kidnapped by an enemy family she doesn't put up much of a fight. Soon she seems to be quickly falling for her capturer, the General Hunter. Hunter knew she was different as soon as he looked at her, and decided not to kill her. Instead he lies to his father and calls her is POW. Kate ends up staying with Hunter, and over the next 6 or 7 months he teaches her how to defend herself for a war they both see coming. They are both victims of family, and just want their freedom, but it is almost impossible to escape until circumstances change. Kate was a victim to the lies and not knowing there was even a war going on, and a family that now wants her dead. Hunter is a victim to his father and having to act in a way he hates since as a general, and has to take charge. Kate helps him know he still has a soul, and is still good despite his environment.

Kate and Hunter's relationship seemed a little instant love-ish. Yet they didn't confess any feelings for a long time. It was a lot of flirting and tempting behavior. Even though they were living in the same room, they never went farther than flirting until the end when feelings are finally confessed. I did enjoy it, and it had me falling for Hunter, too. But it did get a little frustrating with how it started out and how long it took to finally admit feelings.

I liked this story, and found it funny, and maybe a little ironic how the country declines after 2012 when we just had the election for president. The romance was sweet and grew as the story progressed. I look forward to future books by Cassandra Giovanni.
Profile Image for Carolina Batista.
103 reviews28 followers
August 20, 2012
3,5

Maybe one of the best R2R i've ever received. Really liked it.
Kate, the main female character, was incredibly interesting. Different from the typical protagonist, stronger, with less reservations about what she feels or wants, which was good for a change. Also, she and Hunter fit perfectly in their life stories and ways of thinking. Her family wanting to kill her was a good idea, interesting,and give another logic to the story.
The mention of Twilight Saga in the book was an act of courage. Me, not being a big fan myself, recognize you for that ;)
The size of the chapters pleased me. Small, easy to read, enjoyable. The kind of book that we say "just one more chapter" and when you realize, you finished the book in three hours. But the book was too short! :( I wanted to know more about their past lives and how their relationship developed. (to Cassandra) Are you thinking of doing a sequel or something?
You really caught me at the beginning of the last chapter. I thought that, after they've been caught, they were together and free because they were both killed.


Fav Quotes:
* "When you live the way i did you learn to hide your emotions because no one is going to listen anyways...or tell the truth for that matter."
* "Why wont you talk about yourself?"/"There's nothing much to say"/"There was nothing much for me to say and i still said it because i knew you wanted to hear it"
* "But sometimes the greatest revenge is guilt because that will destroy a person...believe me, i know."
* "You grow up with something you can't stand and you learn how to not be like it"
* "He understood the evil because he had conquered it and mastered it inside himself"
* "I guess my special talent is seeing through lies even if i don't understand them."
* "For what it's worth i think they knew you were special just not their kind of special."
Profile Image for Kirsty Bicknell.
657 reviews67 followers
December 4, 2012
I'd initially like to point out that before I started this book I had had several personal issues, including the loss of my Nan, all of which had made reading difficult for me as I found I lacked concentration and the ability to involve with a book. That was until I opened Cassandra Giovanni's 'In Between Seasons'!!
Immediately I found myself immersed into the post-apocalyptic world of Kate and Hunter and several hours later when I clicked the final page on my Kindle, although I was still physically sat in the same place on me sofa, I felt emotionally still with them.
The reader is introduced to Kate questioning the world she lives in - she feels the history she has been told surrounding the demise of the government into martial law is not a true one - and the house they live in now with its select choice of friends as house mates is convenient and uncomfortable.
However, Kate's questions and more are unexpectedly answered when she is kidnapped from her home by Hunter and taken as a POW.
Cassandra Giovanni allows the story to develop between Hunter and Kate beautifully and at times I felt my heart in my mouth. However the plot concerns so much more than just their relationship - Kate learns more about the world in which she lives and her family; she learns how to fight and how to make friends.
I was given this eBook by the author in exchange for an honest review but I would recommend 'In Between Seasons' to all fans of Young Adult Romance or Dystopian Fiction.
Hunter and Kate's characters are both strong, likeable and as Kate is the narrator it allows the reader to feel more sympathy for her situation.
I really enjoyed this book and am so excited there is going to be a sequel!!!!
Profile Image for Jo.
172 reviews69 followers
September 4, 2012
One of the best things I like about some dystopian novels is you have no idea when or where they take place, i.e. Serentity so culture and morays can cross centuries and yet still realistically use future technology, cause you know who the heck knows when this took place so let’s just go with it. That’s how I felt reading Kate and Hunter’s story. It reminded me very much of an underground railroad or Nazi resistance story which I have always found fascinating to read. However In between seasons of course has a whole new set of rules; heroes and villains; it took me a while to figure out who was what and which ending did I want. Always the best type of stories. I was a little confused when I first started reading the book but again I think it works for this book because you are meant to be in a befuddled state of mind similar to the main character Kate who has no idea what was really going on in her world or what will happen to her in the future. One of the best books I have ever read Jellicoe Road has a similar set up. Ms. Giovanni does a great job of also introducing great secondary characters (Rob, Mara, Kate’s family) that leave you wanting to know more about their background and hoping for more stories about them. Ms. Giovanni does a great job of world building her description of not only the different tribes but also the anti-tribes. I really enjoyed the book and am definitely reading anything else the author writes. I hope she writes more soon
Profile Image for Zili.
790 reviews
August 12, 2014

I know there are a lot of dystopian YA stories out there now (THG and Divergence seems to have spawned many copies), but In Between Seasons is different enough to not be another clichéd copy and I really enjoyed Kate's story!

Kate lives in a post apocalyptic world set after an event known as 'The Fall' (I loved the Milton-like imagery here). Kate is not satisfied living in silence and wants to know the truth about what really happened. In Between Seasons is Kate's quest for answers.

Hunter is a soldier on a mission. A mission which changes when he meets Kate. He's not your average cocky alpha male, because he's pretty convinced about his shortcomings and doesn't see himself as worthy. I was expecting him to be the bad guy but Cassandra presents him in such a way that he never seems to be bad. I did have several questions about his motives and a few moments of doubt (perhaps I'm just overly cynical).

Although the story is dark in places, it's also really positive and hopeful. The relationship between Kate and Hunter really made the story for me because they seemed to challenge and bring out the best in each other. The secondary characters were well imagined and never seemed like fillers. I believe the next book will focus on different characters from the series.

4 Stars in my Sky!

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review!

Also reviewed on my blog Zili in the Sky
Profile Image for The Book Trollop.
467 reviews37 followers
August 4, 2014
This novel was an interesting concept. From reading the description I was instantly interested in reading it. When I received the book I was immediately attracted to the action it had and trying to figure out all the same answers that Kate wanted to know. When we were introduced to Hunter and his swoony mannerisms, the book became even more action packed and interesting!

The dystopian feel, futuristic concepts, and the whole premise was intriguing but there was certain dialogue that put me off. I didnt feel the chemistry between Hunter and Kate like I wanted too. I didn't get the good vibes/feels from them and it was kind of blah.

But both characters were strong and they didn't crap from anyone, which was nice. Nobody likes a whiney character and I didn't get that from either of them. They fought, wanted answers, and sought them out, even if they didn't get told a lot of what they wanted to know.

The whole dystopian concept does take a backseat to the actual characters of the story but I think that may be due to Cassandra wanting to get more involved in the storyline with future books. More answers should come and I will just have to be patient and wait for them.

Overall, I give this first book a 3.5/5 "Hunter is one hot Alpha" stars and I recommend to anyone who is looking for a good read, not steamy with and interesting concept in what happened to the world in the year 2021!!
Profile Image for Kylee.
106 reviews
August 9, 2012
I give this book 3.5 stars!!!

Two problems I had with this book, one is the beginning. I wish we could have learned a bit more about Kate's life at home before Hunter kidnapped her and everything went crazy. Although I do like how the book had action from the beginning. Waiting for something to happen in a book sucks. It was also really difficult for me to get used to so much dialogue but it was a really interesting writing choice!

I absolutely adored Kate and Hunter. I love how strong Kate was and how she never really gave up, she kept pushing to figure out the truth instead of giving up. I really liked how Hunter had this secret side of him noone else got to see except for Kate, I like how she was able to bring that out in him and how instant their connection was. I hope to some day find someone I can be myself completely with and they the same.

I think it would be neat to see a book written about Mara and Rob, we didn't get to learn much about them but I really liked both of them as well.

The ending of this book was bittersweet for me, I really wanted to read more about what Kate and Hunter did after they found freedom. I wanted more sappy love stuff but it was still a good ending and I'm glad Hunter finally said I love you out loud so Kate doesn't have to go crazy anymore wanting to hear those special words! (:
Profile Image for Bronwyn Elmes.
16 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2014
Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock

Rating 4 fangs

Let me start of by saying wow! This was such a refreshing read. The story flowed so well that it was a real pleasure to read.

This story is a New Adult Post-Apocalyptic Romance. It is set in the year 2041 after “The Fall” in 2021. The story is a coming of age novel with action and romance thrown in. We follow Kate the heroine of the story through her struggle to learn the truth about the world around her. Along her path of discovery she encounters our hero Hunter.

Hunter (insert swoon) has jumped to the top of my hottest alpha male list. He battles his demons throughout: “Being a victim is only an excuse that we use to justify our own cruel actions. I’m a beast, Kate. Everyone sees it but you.” But unlike other alpha males, Hunter is actually written as a good guy. He is very easy to fall in love with.

The two main characters work so well together, which makes the story so believable. There is no cliffhanger (yay) but the ending of the story leaves room for more to come in the series.

I would recommend this book for readers of all ages. Even though categorized as young adult, the characters living in a post-apocalyptic world read as so much older. This book will grab romance, action, mystery and paranormal readers.
Profile Image for Megan.
548 reviews22 followers
August 8, 2014
When I read the synopsis for this book I was really excited because there aren’t a lot of New Adult Post-Apocalyptic stories out there. Once I actually started reading the book, I knew this would be a series I could easily become addicted to.

Hunter and Kate meet under unusual circumstances but quickly realized they have a lot in common. It was obvious that they had an instant connection. They’re both strong and stubborn people. Hunter is skilled at what he does but he also has this tenderness with Kate at times that was so sweet to see. Kate knows there’s more outside the world she’s grown up knowing and when Hunter starts answering questions for her, she still holds her head high and doesn’t let it weigh her down. I really admired her as a person. I really liked both of the personalities as well. It was very easy to get emotionally involved in their wellbeing while reading the story.

The story line had me glued to my tablet from the opening words and I couldn’t put it down until I’d finished. I easily read it in a few hours since I was eager to find out what would happen next. The book flowed easily and I found the descriptions very well written. It was easy to submerge myself in their world. I truly enjoyed this story and can’t wait for more in the series. 5 out of 5 stars!
Profile Image for K.A. Graham.
Author 15 books116 followers
October 11, 2016
I’ve been a fan of Cassandra Giovanni’s from the first book of hers I read (Love Exactly) and she absolutely blew me away with this one. Completely different than anything I’ve read recently, and it was fan freaking tastic! Never once did I put it down, due to boredom or slow moving story line, it just flowed smoothly the whole way.

This is a Post-Apocalyptic Romance, set in the year 2041, after what they call “The Fall”. We see through the eyes of Kate, who faces many struggles on a personal level, trying to learn the truth about her family and the world she lives in.

When events take a turn for the worse, she’s met head on with Hunter, who can only be described as a hero disguised as a villain. Things are definitely not what they seem, and in my opinion, he’s the sweetest, sexiest alpha male I’ve met to date. He shows her how their future can be, if they follow their own path, instead of what’s been laid in front of them by their rival families.

This story has it all…romance, action, mystery, a heart melting leading man, and the will to survive. It’s a definite page-turner, and I loved every second of it! Bravo Cassandra, and can’t wait to see what you bring us next!
Profile Image for Ellen Ekstrom.
Author 8 books66 followers
May 29, 2012
This is an intriguing debut novel. I've just started reading dystopian fiction and "In Between Seasons" had me thinking, wondering, rooting for Kate, and later Hunter. Ms. Giovanni gives nothing away with her realistic voice and the plot. As you read, you are given glimpses of what has happened to the world, and just who really is the enemy, and who is in charge. There was a twist at the end that I didn't see coming, and it made me want a sequel right now. The tension between the characters keeps you guessing and you do have to wonder about those ladies on the sofa and what they have to do with the world situation. Even better, nothing is spelled out - the story unfolds in action and dialogue.

As I mentioned, this is a debut novel and while not perfect (what is?), it is a promising start for a young author that I envision growing from strength to strength and improving upon what she has done here.
Profile Image for Deniz.
85 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2014
This book... honestly, it's different from what I expected.

This Post-Apocalyptic Romance story hooks you in. From the very beginning, the plot is introduced, and not a few pages in, you are diving into the action. Reading this was refreshing, and I loved following the story of Kate and Hunter in this treacherous world that they have to live in.

Let's talk about Kate. I love her. I mean, even the girl in the pictures that is playing as Kate looks like... well, Kate. She's full of flaws, acts like a normal girl, yet she has this badass side to her that makes you laugh (at times) and want more. The thing that struck odd to me was her feelings towards her family (this isn't a spoiler, don't worry). In a lot of books, you see the main character have this struggle between family-by-blood and family-by-choice. There's always this hesitation going on when Read More
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