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Resistance #2
Resist
WINNER BEST YA FICTION in the Texas Association of Authors 2016 Book Awards
SILVER MEDALIST in the International Wishing Shelf 2017 Book Awards
Knowledge comes with a price.
Tommy and Careen are no longer naive teenagers who believe the Office of Civilian Safety and Defense’s miracle antidote can protect them from a terrorist’s chemical weapons. After accidentally discovering the antidote’s real purpose—to control citizens’ thoughts and actions--they join the Resistance to fight back.
They soon realize that being part of the Resistance brings with it a whole new set of challenges. Not everyone working for change proves trustworthy, and plans to spark a revolution go awry, with grave consequences. Tommy and Careen's differing viewpoints threaten to drive a wedge between them, and their budding relationship is tested as their destinies move toward an inevitable confrontation with the forces that terrorize the nation.
Where does love fit in when you’re trying to overthrow the government?
SILVER MEDALIST in the International Wishing Shelf 2017 Book Awards
Knowledge comes with a price.
Tommy and Careen are no longer naive teenagers who believe the Office of Civilian Safety and Defense’s miracle antidote can protect them from a terrorist’s chemical weapons. After accidentally discovering the antidote’s real purpose—to control citizens’ thoughts and actions--they join the Resistance to fight back.
They soon realize that being part of the Resistance brings with it a whole new set of challenges. Not everyone working for change proves trustworthy, and plans to spark a revolution go awry, with grave consequences. Tommy and Careen's differing viewpoints threaten to drive a wedge between them, and their budding relationship is tested as their destinies move toward an inevitable confrontation with the forces that terrorize the nation.
Where does love fit in when you’re trying to overthrow the government?
248 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 9, 2017
*Thank you to the author for providing me a free e-copy. This review is my full and honest opinion*
One of the first things I noticed about this book was that it began right where Counteract ended. Since I read this right after Counteract, it was really easy to get back into the groove of things.
I thought the characters continued to be very diverse and strong, especially Careen.
In this book, I thought she definitely developed the most and began to lead.
The relationships were very strong as well - what I love about this series so far is that casual balance between lighter aspects that we are used to, and the more political dystopian world that is much more heavy in terms of subject matter and writing.
And like I said for Counteract, the book was extremely strong in the fact that the book was "realistic" and frighteningly probable, considering the path the world is currently headed in.
One of the first things I noticed about this book was that it began right where Counteract ended. Since I read this right after Counteract, it was really easy to get back into the groove of things.
I thought the characters continued to be very diverse and strong, especially Careen.
In this book, I thought she definitely developed the most and began to lead.
The relationships were very strong as well - what I love about this series so far is that casual balance between lighter aspects that we are used to, and the more political dystopian world that is much more heavy in terms of subject matter and writing.
And like I said for Counteract, the book was extremely strong in the fact that the book was "realistic" and frighteningly probable, considering the path the world is currently headed in.
September 21, 2015
*I'd like thank the author for sending me a review copy! This in no way whatsoever swayed my opinion of this book.
I actually liked Resist more than Counteract (if that's even possible). Yeah, you heard me right -- I liked the sequel more than the first book. When does that ever happen? Basically never, I tend to get really irritated with sequels, but nope, not with Resist.
Full review can be found @ My Addiction: Books
I actually liked Resist more than Counteract (if that's even possible). Yeah, you heard me right -- I liked the sequel more than the first book. When does that ever happen? Basically never, I tend to get really irritated with sequels, but nope, not with Resist.
Full review can be found @ My Addiction: Books
March 6, 2016
I'm so happy that I found Tracy and her amazing books. I'm currently in school so there isn't a whole lot of time for me to read, but this book made me make time.
Tommy and Careen are continuing to learn about themselves as individuals as well as when they're a couple. I loved meeting new characters to love and hate and changing opinions I had already formed. I think that the way it is written becomes much more appealing as you read on and you learn how important the time stamps are and how it makes the story flow better. Haven't you ever read a book and had no idea if it lasted a week or 3 months? Well Tracy keeps the reader updated with everything they'll need to know!
I loved that Careen struggled with her identity and her place in this new society. She's not a perfect heroine and she is just a girl who was in possibly the wrong place (or right place) at the right time. She grows a lot as a character and I can't even tell you how excited I am to see her in Ignite!
Tommy and Careen are continuing to learn about themselves as individuals as well as when they're a couple. I loved meeting new characters to love and hate and changing opinions I had already formed. I think that the way it is written becomes much more appealing as you read on and you learn how important the time stamps are and how it makes the story flow better. Haven't you ever read a book and had no idea if it lasted a week or 3 months? Well Tracy keeps the reader updated with everything they'll need to know!
I loved that Careen struggled with her identity and her place in this new society. She's not a perfect heroine and she is just a girl who was in possibly the wrong place (or right place) at the right time. She grows a lot as a character and I can't even tell you how excited I am to see her in Ignite!
October 15, 2015
I really liked this book, and I found this a stronger offering in terms of story and character development than, Counteract, the first book in the series. Lawson's style and improvement in the craft is clearly evident, and the reader benefits. Lawson's lean writing style and idea-driven dialogue had me thinking a lot about Ayn Rand, particularly her novella Anthem. This an excellent addition to the YA dystopian literature with a nice blend of action and meaning. A YA series for our times with many contemporary parallels.
May 27, 2017
The Resistance rises...
Lawson did another masterful job of adding additional layers to the already bountiful world she created in Counteract. Other characters that we were only briefly introduced to in the first book, such as: Mitch, Jaycee, the Baileys, Grace, etc., truly leave their mark on the developing story while we got to know the main characters on a deeper level. The Resistance truly started to rise by engaging in a punch/counterpunch propaganda war with the government. And, in what you will learn is true Tracy Lawson style, there are twists and turns in this book you will never see coming, EVERYONE has some sort of secret they're trying to keep, and the book ends in a cliffhanger. I think that is something we all need to learn to be okay with because these books are too good to miss!
Lawson did another masterful job of adding additional layers to the already bountiful world she created in Counteract. Other characters that we were only briefly introduced to in the first book, such as: Mitch, Jaycee, the Baileys, Grace, etc., truly leave their mark on the developing story while we got to know the main characters on a deeper level. The Resistance truly started to rise by engaging in a punch/counterpunch propaganda war with the government. And, in what you will learn is true Tracy Lawson style, there are twists and turns in this book you will never see coming, EVERYONE has some sort of secret they're trying to keep, and the book ends in a cliffhanger. I think that is something we all need to learn to be okay with because these books are too good to miss!
July 23, 2017
Great Continuation
The Resistance series is nothing short of a thrill ride and this book was certainly no disappointment. I enjoyed getting to know the characters better and discovering secrets on their journey. I can't wait to begin the third installment!
The Resistance series is nothing short of a thrill ride and this book was certainly no disappointment. I enjoyed getting to know the characters better and discovering secrets on their journey. I can't wait to begin the third installment!
October 7, 2016
***Review has been gifted in exchange for my honest opinion and on behalf of Kats Book Promotions/ Katsindiebookblog.*** If you were happy with the first book, you will not be disappointed with the next book in this series. The writing gets better and better with each book, if that’s possible. You are immediately sucked right back in where you were left off in the first book.
Tommy and Careen are on their journey to save everyone, if that’s even possible. They are put through many twists and turns while working on their relationship. With dealing with the resistance, can everyone work together to get the job done, can relationships stay in tacked? The only way to find out is to continue reading into this great series.
Tommy and Careen are on their journey to save everyone, if that’s even possible. They are put through many twists and turns while working on their relationship. With dealing with the resistance, can everyone work together to get the job done, can relationships stay in tacked? The only way to find out is to continue reading into this great series.
October 19, 2015
You think starting a revolution is easy? You think there aren't sacrifices to be made? Tommy and Careen have both lost things for the cause, things they never anticipated having to lose in the first place considering they never WANTED to be a part of this movement to begin with, but they've also found things as well. There are whispered conversations, secret rendezvous' (of both the personal and business type), and those that may be working as double agents around every bend. Some you can get a clear read on, others...not so much. Even those that have been through so much (i.e. Tommy and Careen) aren't even on the same page anymore and that my friends could cost one of them their life...
On the list of things to love, the fact that there is no space between the first book and the second. You literally step out of the one and right into the other without losing a moment...word to the wise, it is a bit more of a requirement to read these in order due to this very same reason, but totally worth it. Second reason, the characters stay true to themselves or rather the parts they were given. Though I did want to smack Tommy a bit upside the head for his performance this time around; once with a girl, another time with a gun, and the last...well, I'll let you read about that one but let's say it puts quite a few in jeopardy. Careen has her share of mis-choices this time around as well but I do think we see her character change the most. She's finally finding her sense of self and not just being led around anymore...she wants to do the leading. The only drawback for me was when we started to get drawn a touch too far into the political side of things (not my cup of tea) but by book's end we were back on course and let me tell you, that ending leaves you wishing it was already 2016 so you could pick up the next in the series.
**review copy received in exchange for my honest review...full post can be seen on my site**
On the list of things to love, the fact that there is no space between the first book and the second. You literally step out of the one and right into the other without losing a moment...word to the wise, it is a bit more of a requirement to read these in order due to this very same reason, but totally worth it. Second reason, the characters stay true to themselves or rather the parts they were given. Though I did want to smack Tommy a bit upside the head for his performance this time around; once with a girl, another time with a gun, and the last...well, I'll let you read about that one but let's say it puts quite a few in jeopardy. Careen has her share of mis-choices this time around as well but I do think we see her character change the most. She's finally finding her sense of self and not just being led around anymore...she wants to do the leading. The only drawback for me was when we started to get drawn a touch too far into the political side of things (not my cup of tea) but by book's end we were back on course and let me tell you, that ending leaves you wishing it was already 2016 so you could pick up the next in the series.
**review copy received in exchange for my honest review...full post can be seen on my site**
August 27, 2016
For more reviews like this, check out Brian's Book Blog
The Resistance is growing
4.75 out of 5 stars
The continued story of Careen and the Resistance as they continue to grow their support and numbers while fighting against the never-ending power of the OCSD. They will stop at almost nothing to bring down the OCSD once and for all.
The narration for Resist was done by Sarah Rogers who narrated the first book in the Resistance series also. She does a great job and actually does an even better job narrating this story than the first. I think that I was either used to the type of voice she was using, or she used less of an innocent teenage voice. Regardless, Rogers does a great job narrating the story and I cannot wait to hear her narrate the third book!
Resist picks up right where Counteract leaves off, throwing the reader right back into the story of Careen and the others in the Resistance. Lawson throws a little more romance into this book (it is a YA book which typically feature a love interest or even a love triangle). This seems to have those typical elements, but they didn't feel forced. Young adults are very keen on finding true love right away and this seems to play on that feeling.
The actual story is really well thought out and explained. Granted, I think you need to read or listen to Counteract so that you fully understand what is going on in Resist, but inside of Resist, I think that Lawson has drawn out a really interesting Dystopian society. There were many times where I was drawing parallels to other Dystopian stories both old and new like 1984 and The Hunger Games.
Overall, Lawson does a great job grabbing your attention from the beginning and not letting it go. She writes a wonderfully thought out and explained dystopian full of characters that you want to get to know better. The story feels extremely believable which makes it even more enjoyable.
The Resistance is growing
4.75 out of 5 stars
The continued story of Careen and the Resistance as they continue to grow their support and numbers while fighting against the never-ending power of the OCSD. They will stop at almost nothing to bring down the OCSD once and for all.
The narration for Resist was done by Sarah Rogers who narrated the first book in the Resistance series also. She does a great job and actually does an even better job narrating this story than the first. I think that I was either used to the type of voice she was using, or she used less of an innocent teenage voice. Regardless, Rogers does a great job narrating the story and I cannot wait to hear her narrate the third book!
Resist picks up right where Counteract leaves off, throwing the reader right back into the story of Careen and the others in the Resistance. Lawson throws a little more romance into this book (it is a YA book which typically feature a love interest or even a love triangle). This seems to have those typical elements, but they didn't feel forced. Young adults are very keen on finding true love right away and this seems to play on that feeling.
The actual story is really well thought out and explained. Granted, I think you need to read or listen to Counteract so that you fully understand what is going on in Resist, but inside of Resist, I think that Lawson has drawn out a really interesting Dystopian society. There were many times where I was drawing parallels to other Dystopian stories both old and new like 1984 and The Hunger Games.
Overall, Lawson does a great job grabbing your attention from the beginning and not letting it go. She writes a wonderfully thought out and explained dystopian full of characters that you want to get to know better. The story feels extremely believable which makes it even more enjoyable.
November 27, 2016
*** I voluntarily reviewed this book, I gained no monetary incentives nor was I specifically requested to review the book, these are my honest ramblings and I hope you enjoy reading them - kat***
Actual Rating #4.5 stars
As we continue Careen and Tommy's journey and they join the Resistance, it brings with it a whole new set of challenges.
Who do you trust, are there more hidden agendas? you will be thinking and be mulling over this book when not reading it if you are like me.
Careen came out the strongest in this book, Tommy has a lot of growing up to do, and with Wes bringing in the usual Triangle love trope, the relationship side of the story is put to the test.
Wes was a thorn in the side for me, he was not a likable character, whether that's because he had is own agenda when it came to Careen I do not know, but even when he was interacting with his Brother and Niece I still felt he was too selfish for his own needs.
The Plot is based mainly in the Headquarters of the resistance and there was less action in this story, but what action there is - certainly rocks the foundations for the characters.
I think this was a strong sequel but the OCSD which is running the entire country is now run by the 2IC Madalyn Davies, and she is more mental than her predecessor. As things go from bad to worse for the nation, The tensions within the resistance group come to a head.
I started Book 3 straight after, and I am glad I read these 3 together as the wait would have been bad, I hate waiting to see what happens next.
One thing I would say is that there is a lot going on within the plot and sometimes you wonder how one guy in the wop wops can be running the whole resistance effectively yet the president is completely helpless to stand up to the OCSD.
Actual Rating #4.5 stars
As we continue Careen and Tommy's journey and they join the Resistance, it brings with it a whole new set of challenges.
Who do you trust, are there more hidden agendas? you will be thinking and be mulling over this book when not reading it if you are like me.
Careen came out the strongest in this book, Tommy has a lot of growing up to do, and with Wes bringing in the usual Triangle love trope, the relationship side of the story is put to the test.
Wes was a thorn in the side for me, he was not a likable character, whether that's because he had is own agenda when it came to Careen I do not know, but even when he was interacting with his Brother and Niece I still felt he was too selfish for his own needs.
The Plot is based mainly in the Headquarters of the resistance and there was less action in this story, but what action there is - certainly rocks the foundations for the characters.
I think this was a strong sequel but the OCSD which is running the entire country is now run by the 2IC Madalyn Davies, and she is more mental than her predecessor. As things go from bad to worse for the nation, The tensions within the resistance group come to a head.
I started Book 3 straight after, and I am glad I read these 3 together as the wait would have been bad, I hate waiting to see what happens next.
One thing I would say is that there is a lot going on within the plot and sometimes you wonder how one guy in the wop wops can be running the whole resistance effectively yet the president is completely helpless to stand up to the OCSD.
August 19, 2015
What Happens When the Government Controls Every Aspect of Your Life
In Book 1 of the Resistance Trilogy, Tommy and Careen, college students, meet when a drug to help protect the population from terrorism is passed out. The drug is not what it seems and Tommy and Careen band together to fight the web of lies that is causing the population to become unable to do anything but what the government decrees.
In Book 2, Resist, Tommy and Careen are on the run. They've joined the resistance. Their goal is to rescue a group of dissenters that includes Tommy's parents. As they pursue this goal, they meet other people who think as they do and some who are deceptive. Their relationship is tested when they find they can't agree about everything, but they continue to work through their issues and help the other freedom fighters.
This is a fast paced dystopian thriller. The action begins in the first chapter and continues at a relentless pace throughout the book. Although Tommy and Careen are the main characters, other characters, including those behind the evil, have chapters written in their point of view. This provides a vehicle for giving information about what is happening in the enemy camp, things Tommy and Careen can't know.
I enjoyed the book. The characters are likable and the plot has numerous twists. If you enjoy dystopian novels, you may find this trilogy appealing.
I reviewed this book for PR by the Book.
In Book 1 of the Resistance Trilogy, Tommy and Careen, college students, meet when a drug to help protect the population from terrorism is passed out. The drug is not what it seems and Tommy and Careen band together to fight the web of lies that is causing the population to become unable to do anything but what the government decrees.
In Book 2, Resist, Tommy and Careen are on the run. They've joined the resistance. Their goal is to rescue a group of dissenters that includes Tommy's parents. As they pursue this goal, they meet other people who think as they do and some who are deceptive. Their relationship is tested when they find they can't agree about everything, but they continue to work through their issues and help the other freedom fighters.
This is a fast paced dystopian thriller. The action begins in the first chapter and continues at a relentless pace throughout the book. Although Tommy and Careen are the main characters, other characters, including those behind the evil, have chapters written in their point of view. This provides a vehicle for giving information about what is happening in the enemy camp, things Tommy and Careen can't know.
I enjoyed the book. The characters are likable and the plot has numerous twists. If you enjoy dystopian novels, you may find this trilogy appealing.
I reviewed this book for PR by the Book.
September 16, 2015
Resist by Tracy Lawson is book two of a trilogy set that follows the first book, Counteract. Even though I read Resist before reading Counteract, I was still able to follow the plot of the text. At the very beginning of Resist, the reader jumps right in to Tommy and Careen's current situation, which is being on the run from the Office of Civilian Safety and Defense.
Playing on the emotions of readers, who are familiar with terrorist attacks, Lawson draws the reader into the trickery of the Office of Civilian Safety and Defense and the falsehood surrounding the anecdote. Furthermore, the text follows the Resistance movement to overthrow a very powerful government.
Lawson paints a powerful picture of what could possibly happen when citizens trust the government to help deal with terrorism. Citizens have relinquish their abilities to think for themselves, to act for themselves, and the general liberties and freedoms that are normally afforded to citizens.
From the very beginning this book is hard to put down. I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading Resist and being drawn into a plot that could possibly become a reality for country's that can be overtaken by powerful governments.
Playing on the emotions of readers, who are familiar with terrorist attacks, Lawson draws the reader into the trickery of the Office of Civilian Safety and Defense and the falsehood surrounding the anecdote. Furthermore, the text follows the Resistance movement to overthrow a very powerful government.
Lawson paints a powerful picture of what could possibly happen when citizens trust the government to help deal with terrorism. Citizens have relinquish their abilities to think for themselves, to act for themselves, and the general liberties and freedoms that are normally afforded to citizens.
From the very beginning this book is hard to put down. I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading Resist and being drawn into a plot that could possibly become a reality for country's that can be overtaken by powerful governments.
September 6, 2015
I am fortunate because it hasn't been very long since I have read the first book Counteract (you can check out my review here in my blog). I really enjoyed Counteract and was looking forward to Resist.
Miss Lawson did not disappoint! One of the things I like about this series is how Miss Lawson explores what can happen if the masses give up all liberties to the government-something that I feel is in progress in our world. And she does a great job of showing the horrors of becoming unthinking sheep being led to the slaughter.
Tommy and Careen are two strong characters that willingly put their lives on the line to save everyone. Do they succeed? Well, you'll just have to go get the books to get that question answered.
Resist is a journey through the intricacies of being part of a resistance. It is a journey through taking on a government so strong that the general population has given up all thinking for themselves to that government. Miss Lawson takes the reader into a world where a group of people are fighting for their own minds, the right to make their own decisions, and the right to be an individual. And it is an awesome, eye-opening journey.
Miss Lawson did not disappoint! One of the things I like about this series is how Miss Lawson explores what can happen if the masses give up all liberties to the government-something that I feel is in progress in our world. And she does a great job of showing the horrors of becoming unthinking sheep being led to the slaughter.
Tommy and Careen are two strong characters that willingly put their lives on the line to save everyone. Do they succeed? Well, you'll just have to go get the books to get that question answered.
Resist is a journey through the intricacies of being part of a resistance. It is a journey through taking on a government so strong that the general population has given up all thinking for themselves to that government. Miss Lawson takes the reader into a world where a group of people are fighting for their own minds, the right to make their own decisions, and the right to be an individual. And it is an awesome, eye-opening journey.
November 10, 2015
As one who loves to write and read about all things love, the ever-intensifying love story between Tommy and Careen is very well-written and age appropriate, but far from boring! With as many twists and turns as the main plot, readers will be cheering for them to not only save society, but to fight to stay together.
August 10, 2018
The Resistance series is fast becoming one of my favourites, I desperately want to move onto book 3 straight away but alas there are already too many on my tbr! When I read Counteract a couple of months ago I was left breathless by the fast pace of the ending and I was not disappointed when that pace continued on into Resist. For a story set mainly in a resistance stronghold, you could think that this would be a recipe for a story to drag, in a series 2 of The Walking Dead kind of way. However, if anything this keeps the pace up as the work on the compound is relentless in its attempts to bring down the OSCD, although there is very much a clash of ideas as to how to best accomplish this.
The OCSD is losing its grip after the death of its director, the public are confused about CSD but for Madalyn it remains her end game at all costs. Madalyn truly stands out as a wretched character, and it seems like this really is a case for “better the devil you know” as her inexperience has catastrophic consequences.
For Careen, she finds herself in a very strange position, thrust into a limelight she didn’t ask for, she initially relishes her role and the respect that it gains her within the compound. Although she soon learns that her message can be taken in ways other than intended and the weight of the responsibility her new role starts to take its toll. It’s in these moment that it must be reflected on that Careen is still very young to have these types of responsibilities and I felt that the issues around Careen’s mental health were really well considered. The thought that went into not only the initial impact but then the ongoing impact of her coping mechanisms.
I think it is also easy to forget just how few days have actually passed. This is a group of people so unsure of each other still but yet having to place their lives and well being into their hands. I felt for Tommy in this one a lot too. He has some real emotional upheavals and his struggles to find his place in Careen’s shadow are easy to understand. Fledgling relationships are tough to maintain especially under scrutiny. Tommy is left feeling eager to be part of things but because of his turmoil he is left very conflicted with which way to turn and with Wes taking advantage of that it can only be a recipe for disaster.
As with Counteract, I was left with a feeling of a not so distant future which could come to pass. There are some upsetting scenes at a food distribution centre, which when you consider how busy those places are now, a need to attend them en masse is well… you can imagine. There is so much going on between the compound and OCSD headquarters but with everyone seeming to have their own agenda the collateral damage has nowhere to go but up. The great thing is the intertwining story lines never feel fuzzy or confusing with Eduardo continuing to be a kind of anchor across the pages.
The only thing that slightly jarred my was the hint of a triangle between the characters. This is more a personal preference issue, I just don’t like them and found that it didn’t really do much to drive the story forward. Everything still would have had the same impact without it in my view.
Resist however, is an outstandingly written book, full of great content, character development and topics that will really have you thinking long after you have put it down. It really has a lot to say about society without being preachy or overly labouring a point. I thoroughly enjoyed it as a fantastic example of dystopia and don’t hesitate to give it 5 stars!
The OCSD is losing its grip after the death of its director, the public are confused about CSD but for Madalyn it remains her end game at all costs. Madalyn truly stands out as a wretched character, and it seems like this really is a case for “better the devil you know” as her inexperience has catastrophic consequences.
For Careen, she finds herself in a very strange position, thrust into a limelight she didn’t ask for, she initially relishes her role and the respect that it gains her within the compound. Although she soon learns that her message can be taken in ways other than intended and the weight of the responsibility her new role starts to take its toll. It’s in these moment that it must be reflected on that Careen is still very young to have these types of responsibilities and I felt that the issues around Careen’s mental health were really well considered. The thought that went into not only the initial impact but then the ongoing impact of her coping mechanisms.
I think it is also easy to forget just how few days have actually passed. This is a group of people so unsure of each other still but yet having to place their lives and well being into their hands. I felt for Tommy in this one a lot too. He has some real emotional upheavals and his struggles to find his place in Careen’s shadow are easy to understand. Fledgling relationships are tough to maintain especially under scrutiny. Tommy is left feeling eager to be part of things but because of his turmoil he is left very conflicted with which way to turn and with Wes taking advantage of that it can only be a recipe for disaster.
As with Counteract, I was left with a feeling of a not so distant future which could come to pass. There are some upsetting scenes at a food distribution centre, which when you consider how busy those places are now, a need to attend them en masse is well… you can imagine. There is so much going on between the compound and OCSD headquarters but with everyone seeming to have their own agenda the collateral damage has nowhere to go but up. The great thing is the intertwining story lines never feel fuzzy or confusing with Eduardo continuing to be a kind of anchor across the pages.
The only thing that slightly jarred my was the hint of a triangle between the characters. This is more a personal preference issue, I just don’t like them and found that it didn’t really do much to drive the story forward. Everything still would have had the same impact without it in my view.
Resist however, is an outstandingly written book, full of great content, character development and topics that will really have you thinking long after you have put it down. It really has a lot to say about society without being preachy or overly labouring a point. I thoroughly enjoyed it as a fantastic example of dystopia and don’t hesitate to give it 5 stars!
February 14, 2018
Thank you to the author for providing me with an audio copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
Did I love this as much as I enjoyed Counteract? No. But that doesn't mean this book was bad in any way.
I liked that this novel jumped right into the events that occurred right after Counteract ended. It was a smooth transition, and in the next few chapters, the author provided enough information to fill in the gaps to jog your memory. I would still recommend, however, that people read the first book in the series before reading this one; it will allow for better connection with the characters and their motives.
This novel, while generally fast-paced, did have its slow moments. These were probably because the story mainly took place at Resistance headquarters. This meant that there was less doing and more talking going on. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, it did mean that there was less action than in the first book of the series. However, the benefit of this approach is that we got to see Careen's character grow up and mature. She is no longer ignorant, and takes a much larger role and responsibility as a member of the Resistance. Having all of the central characters in one location also meant that there were more emotional interactions, and these were done quite well. I especially liked how Tommy struggled to understand his feelings, as it gave him more dimension. Once again, the author gave each character their moment to shine, which was awesome because we got to see how everyone was contributing - or worsening - the situation. Rebellions are a team effort! This also helped me connect with other characters that I didn't necessarily think were important - but then they were.
The one main issue that I had with this novel was that it had the stereotypical love triangle issue. While there was a setup for it in the first book, I was hoping that it wouldn't be carried out in the way that it did. But it happened. I think that it was one of those things that really didn't add to the story, and I generally don't like reading about teen angst so it didn't work for me.
At times, the chapters had an abrupt ending. I feel like one more sentence that acted as a zinger would have been the perfect way to close it off and keep the writing tight. However, this didn't really detract from the quality of the story.
The story ended on a cliffhanger, which means I am now going to binge listen to the next book in the series! I'm giving Resist a solid 3/5 stars!
For more reviews, visit: www.veereading.wordpress.com
Did I love this as much as I enjoyed Counteract? No. But that doesn't mean this book was bad in any way.
I liked that this novel jumped right into the events that occurred right after Counteract ended. It was a smooth transition, and in the next few chapters, the author provided enough information to fill in the gaps to jog your memory. I would still recommend, however, that people read the first book in the series before reading this one; it will allow for better connection with the characters and their motives.
This novel, while generally fast-paced, did have its slow moments. These were probably because the story mainly took place at Resistance headquarters. This meant that there was less doing and more talking going on. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, it did mean that there was less action than in the first book of the series. However, the benefit of this approach is that we got to see Careen's character grow up and mature. She is no longer ignorant, and takes a much larger role and responsibility as a member of the Resistance. Having all of the central characters in one location also meant that there were more emotional interactions, and these were done quite well. I especially liked how Tommy struggled to understand his feelings, as it gave him more dimension. Once again, the author gave each character their moment to shine, which was awesome because we got to see how everyone was contributing - or worsening - the situation. Rebellions are a team effort! This also helped me connect with other characters that I didn't necessarily think were important - but then they were.
The one main issue that I had with this novel was that it had the stereotypical love triangle issue. While there was a setup for it in the first book, I was hoping that it wouldn't be carried out in the way that it did. But it happened. I think that it was one of those things that really didn't add to the story, and I generally don't like reading about teen angst so it didn't work for me.
At times, the chapters had an abrupt ending. I feel like one more sentence that acted as a zinger would have been the perfect way to close it off and keep the writing tight. However, this didn't really detract from the quality of the story.
The story ended on a cliffhanger, which means I am now going to binge listen to the next book in the series! I'm giving Resist a solid 3/5 stars!
For more reviews, visit: www.veereading.wordpress.com
October 30, 2018
The Resistance Series
By Tracy Lawson
Spark
28 pages, prequel, Nov 2016, Teen/YA
Counteract
186 pages, book 1, Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Ignite
282 pages, book 2, Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Revolt
269 pages, book 3, Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Resist
240 pages, book 4 (final), Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Kindle, Paperback, Audiobook (except the prequel, which is only in Kindle format)
Provided, Author
Sci-fi Dystopian YA
✭✭✭✭⭑
The covers are interesting and present an interesting series. Initially, when looking at them, they don’t appear to be a thriller series of a future dystopian American society that’s about to undergo a coup at the highest level. But that’s exactly what this series is. 2035 better not be this disruptive!
The story is well done. I don’t know how real to life it all is for revolutionists, not ever having been involved in a revolution. But they have their organization and their slip-ups. People get hurt and even killed. This is a serious revolution. Each of our two young heroes, Careen and Tommy, get seriously hurt, shot, and even tortured. There are times when you don’t know who is on which side or which side is good or bad, which I imagine may be authentic to a situation such as this. So many people appeared to know what they were talking about and appeared to be speaking the truth, whether they were or not. People who were in positions of authority and power in the country and law enforcement. But as Hemingway said, power corrupts. It seems to corrupt the weak who can’t stand on their own and have to have something like a title to hold up to show how great they are.
The characters were really well done. Some of them we got to know quite well because we were with them all the way through the book and got to know their quirks and even how they like their coffee. Others just sort of passed through here and there as very minor characters, like Nicole. Poor, scared, Nicole.
The pace was mostly relentless as all five books seemed to barrel towards some horrendous cataclysmic ending. The tension of never quite knowing who was on which side and what would pop out around the next corner kept the tension stretched tight throughout. No rest. No time to catch your breath. Just like the characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series and would strongly recommend it for Young Adult readers of this genre, Political Dystopian Thriller YA with just a touch of young romance thrown in.
Recommended.
By Tracy Lawson
Spark
28 pages, prequel, Nov 2016, Teen/YA
Counteract
186 pages, book 1, Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Ignite
282 pages, book 2, Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Revolt
269 pages, book 3, Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Resist
240 pages, book 4 (final), Oct 2018, Teen/YA
Kindle, Paperback, Audiobook (except the prequel, which is only in Kindle format)
Provided, Author
Sci-fi Dystopian YA
✭✭✭✭⭑
The covers are interesting and present an interesting series. Initially, when looking at them, they don’t appear to be a thriller series of a future dystopian American society that’s about to undergo a coup at the highest level. But that’s exactly what this series is. 2035 better not be this disruptive!
The story is well done. I don’t know how real to life it all is for revolutionists, not ever having been involved in a revolution. But they have their organization and their slip-ups. People get hurt and even killed. This is a serious revolution. Each of our two young heroes, Careen and Tommy, get seriously hurt, shot, and even tortured. There are times when you don’t know who is on which side or which side is good or bad, which I imagine may be authentic to a situation such as this. So many people appeared to know what they were talking about and appeared to be speaking the truth, whether they were or not. People who were in positions of authority and power in the country and law enforcement. But as Hemingway said, power corrupts. It seems to corrupt the weak who can’t stand on their own and have to have something like a title to hold up to show how great they are.
The characters were really well done. Some of them we got to know quite well because we were with them all the way through the book and got to know their quirks and even how they like their coffee. Others just sort of passed through here and there as very minor characters, like Nicole. Poor, scared, Nicole.
The pace was mostly relentless as all five books seemed to barrel towards some horrendous cataclysmic ending. The tension of never quite knowing who was on which side and what would pop out around the next corner kept the tension stretched tight throughout. No rest. No time to catch your breath. Just like the characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this series and would strongly recommend it for Young Adult readers of this genre, Political Dystopian Thriller YA with just a touch of young romance thrown in.
Recommended.
August 4, 2017
This book was entered and was a SILVER MEDAL WINNER in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Resist: Book Two of Resistance
Author: Tracy Lawson
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 23
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 10/10
Of the 23 readers:
23 would read another book by this author.
23 thought the cover was good or excellent.
23 felt it was easy to follow.
23 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
15 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
7 felt the author’ strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
23 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
23 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘I loved this book. I loved the first book too. It’s clever, exciting and really well-written. I’m ready for Book 3.’ Boy, age 15
‘I liked the thriller element. I even liked the romantic element as, thankfully, there wasn’t too much of that. But the best bit is the world the author created. I loved Hunger Games and it reminded me so much of that.’ Girl, aged 16
‘Plot-wise, this is the best book I have read this year. The characters are interesting but it’s the plot that’s the best. So much happens, I simply couldn’t stop turning the page. I so loved the cover too. Why isn’t this a film?’ Girl, aged 15
‘I liked Counteract and I’m glad I read that before reading this one. It’s a pretty complex world the characters live in, full of danger and unexpected problems. I liked the way Tommy and Careen face up to the problems so bravely. The ending was also really good. I am now planning to read the third book in the set.’ Girl, aged 15
‘This is up there with Harry Potter, Twilight and The Hunger Games.’ Boy, aged 14
‘A thrilling ride packed full of suspense. A SILVER MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Resist: Book Two of Resistance
Author: Tracy Lawson
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 23
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 10/10
Of the 23 readers:
23 would read another book by this author.
23 thought the cover was good or excellent.
23 felt it was easy to follow.
23 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
15 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
7 felt the author’ strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
23 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
23 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘I loved this book. I loved the first book too. It’s clever, exciting and really well-written. I’m ready for Book 3.’ Boy, age 15
‘I liked the thriller element. I even liked the romantic element as, thankfully, there wasn’t too much of that. But the best bit is the world the author created. I loved Hunger Games and it reminded me so much of that.’ Girl, aged 16
‘Plot-wise, this is the best book I have read this year. The characters are interesting but it’s the plot that’s the best. So much happens, I simply couldn’t stop turning the page. I so loved the cover too. Why isn’t this a film?’ Girl, aged 15
‘I liked Counteract and I’m glad I read that before reading this one. It’s a pretty complex world the characters live in, full of danger and unexpected problems. I liked the way Tommy and Careen face up to the problems so bravely. The ending was also really good. I am now planning to read the third book in the set.’ Girl, aged 15
‘This is up there with Harry Potter, Twilight and The Hunger Games.’ Boy, aged 14
‘A thrilling ride packed full of suspense. A SILVER MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
August 11, 2017
This book started right where the first one left off.
In this book, we meet the Resistance and characters that play a role in trying to bring down the OCSD.
I wold say there is a bit more romance in this book and less action. There isn’t as much suspense but the suspense that is there is enough to keep you pulledf in.
I can’t wait to see what book three brings! I am loving this series!
In this book, we meet the Resistance and characters that play a role in trying to bring down the OCSD.
I wold say there is a bit more romance in this book and less action. There isn’t as much suspense but the suspense that is there is enough to keep you pulledf in.
I can’t wait to see what book three brings! I am loving this series!
September 21, 2018
With even elect government under the control of one all powerful agency.
One malicious narcissist has isolated the population from all personal freedoms. Even families are separated. Finances controlled and decisions about diet and entertainment made for them. One individual has been made the scapegoat for another power seeking person’s crime.
One malicious narcissist has isolated the population from all personal freedoms. Even families are separated. Finances controlled and decisions about diet and entertainment made for them. One individual has been made the scapegoat for another power seeking person’s crime.
March 13, 2019
Definitely suffers from "middle book in a trilogy" syndrome: not as exciting as the first, just a lead up to the final.
January 29, 2021
Fantastic work. I felt Lawson rushed the plot, but her pacing and tension building leaves you no choice but to keep turning the page. I also loved the believable relationship between Tommy and Careen, where their differences place their relationship at crossroads.
Lawson introduced a few new characters and fleshed out existing ones, making for an interesting cast for later installments, though I thought a few were flat here. But with so many characters and POVs, it'd take a miracle to gain a reader's interest in everyone. And as mentioned, these newer and more obscure characters grow more interesting if you keep reading the series beyond Resist.
If you're into nonstop action and a heart-pounding adventure, I strongly recommend giving Resist, and its predecessor Counteract, a chance. Lawson nails both installments and other than the rushing and a mistimed but well-written climax, I enjoyed every page of Resist.
Lawson introduced a few new characters and fleshed out existing ones, making for an interesting cast for later installments, though I thought a few were flat here. But with so many characters and POVs, it'd take a miracle to gain a reader's interest in everyone. And as mentioned, these newer and more obscure characters grow more interesting if you keep reading the series beyond Resist.
If you're into nonstop action and a heart-pounding adventure, I strongly recommend giving Resist, and its predecessor Counteract, a chance. Lawson nails both installments and other than the rushing and a mistimed but well-written climax, I enjoyed every page of Resist.
October 14, 2016
The second in this series, the plot holes remain, but the secondary characters become more interesting. I'm interested to see how the series wraps up.
June 8, 2019
Resist picks up right where Counteract left off with Careen and Tommy joining the Resistance and hoping to stop the OSCD from controlling the people. They want to stop the people from taking the drugs that are delivered to them week after week.
The ER is filling up with people who have decided to stop taking OCD after the chaos and destruction that erupted in Counteract the people are afraid to take OCD and afraid not to take it. But after deciding not to take it they end up in withdrawals thinking they are dying which is what the OSCD told them that OCD would do to them if they stopped taking it. The people were told by the OSCD that OCD would protect them from a terrorist Chemical attack.
Meanwhile back at the Resistance headquarters Careen and Tommy are working with the others to help stop the OSCD but they are not on the same page. Tommy wants to do something that could put his life as well as others in danger and Careen thinks they should take things a little bit slower and handle things in a different way. Now there is trouble in paradise.
Can Careen make Tommy see things her way? Can she stop him before it is too late? What is Tommy up to? Or maybe Careen needs to be on Tommy’s page. Want the answers? Pick up your copy of Resist to find out all the answers.
Resist was just as good as its predecessor Counteract I honestly can’t say which one I liked the best as both were equally intriguing and held my attention from the first page. I had trouble putting both Resist and Counteract down.
The characters are all so amazing and the world that the author has created for the Resistance series is so wonderful it seems so real as I believe it could actually become real to us as well one day now that would be scary.
I mean the government trying to control people by giving them drugs to take daily and by rationing food and distributing it out to people on a weekly basis. Now that is scary indeed but it does make you stop and think.
Resist is one book I highly recommend to all dystopia fans.
The ER is filling up with people who have decided to stop taking OCD after the chaos and destruction that erupted in Counteract the people are afraid to take OCD and afraid not to take it. But after deciding not to take it they end up in withdrawals thinking they are dying which is what the OSCD told them that OCD would do to them if they stopped taking it. The people were told by the OSCD that OCD would protect them from a terrorist Chemical attack.
Meanwhile back at the Resistance headquarters Careen and Tommy are working with the others to help stop the OSCD but they are not on the same page. Tommy wants to do something that could put his life as well as others in danger and Careen thinks they should take things a little bit slower and handle things in a different way. Now there is trouble in paradise.
Can Careen make Tommy see things her way? Can she stop him before it is too late? What is Tommy up to? Or maybe Careen needs to be on Tommy’s page. Want the answers? Pick up your copy of Resist to find out all the answers.
Resist was just as good as its predecessor Counteract I honestly can’t say which one I liked the best as both were equally intriguing and held my attention from the first page. I had trouble putting both Resist and Counteract down.
The characters are all so amazing and the world that the author has created for the Resistance series is so wonderful it seems so real as I believe it could actually become real to us as well one day now that would be scary.
I mean the government trying to control people by giving them drugs to take daily and by rationing food and distributing it out to people on a weekly basis. Now that is scary indeed but it does make you stop and think.
Resist is one book I highly recommend to all dystopia fans.
July 16, 2017
Resist the temptation...to read it over and over and over. It's not possible! Resist is full of surprises. Whether you relate to the struggling heroine (who wants pink in their hair?) or to the malicious mean girl with an interesting backstory (It explains soo much), the book will captivate you with relatable characters and a plot line that will leave you reeling. From ups and downs in relationships, to double crossing, to an invention that will leave you astounded, Resist is a book that you will crave long after you've put it down the first time.
July 19, 2016
Resist, book 2 in Tracy Lawson’s Resistance Series, builds on the strengths of Counteract. Careen and Tommy’s budding relationship continues to grow at the same time it generates conflict. And Lawson’s keen grasp on the idea of liberty and the evils of helicopter government continue to show. But Resist stumbles due to three significant flaws.
First, almost the entire book takes place in a single location, the Resistance headquarters. There is some plot movement and conflict, but trapping most of the characters in a single venue leads a lot more talk and a little less action.
Second, the OCSD is almost ludicrously incompetent. Madalyn Davies, the bungling, over-her-head bureaucrat is hardly unrealistic, but even incompetents have little trouble hurting people given the levers of government if they set their mind to it (something to remember come November). And while the government is pretty terrible at just about everything (about the best we can hope for is less terrible than the alternative), the one thing it is pretty good at is killing people. Add to that the incomprehensively massive resources of the federal government, resources seemingly invisible here. In fact, the whole thing feels implausibly small. A nationwide resistance is run with ease by one guy out of the office in his barn. The OCSD has assimilated the entire national intelligence apparatus and half the regulatory state but still seems to only have a handful of employees. A postman gets a meeting with the president.
Finally, one of the main plot threads, and the one that serves as the catalyst for the climax, is so unredeemingly stupid, so absurdly doltish, that it beggars belief and saps the story of much of its energy.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of Resist from the author.
First, almost the entire book takes place in a single location, the Resistance headquarters. There is some plot movement and conflict, but trapping most of the characters in a single venue leads a lot more talk and a little less action.
Second, the OCSD is almost ludicrously incompetent. Madalyn Davies, the bungling, over-her-head bureaucrat is hardly unrealistic, but even incompetents have little trouble hurting people given the levers of government if they set their mind to it (something to remember come November). And while the government is pretty terrible at just about everything (about the best we can hope for is less terrible than the alternative), the one thing it is pretty good at is killing people. Add to that the incomprehensively massive resources of the federal government, resources seemingly invisible here. In fact, the whole thing feels implausibly small. A nationwide resistance is run with ease by one guy out of the office in his barn. The OCSD has assimilated the entire national intelligence apparatus and half the regulatory state but still seems to only have a handful of employees. A postman gets a meeting with the president.
Finally, one of the main plot threads, and the one that serves as the catalyst for the climax, is so unredeemingly stupid, so absurdly doltish, that it beggars belief and saps the story of much of its energy.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of Resist from the author.
Read
November 19, 2016Wow. This was a thrilling sequel to the first book, Counteract. I am very pleased with the events that panned out in this book, and that's saying something because I am not a huge plan of sequels. Every bit of fear and concern and sadness, I felt along with the characters.
I was shocked at how close to reality some of the events taking place in the book are to reality, especially with the recent presidential election here in the U.S. And I was once again reminded that this story takes place in the not-so-distant future; one that I could very well be living in in years to come. This series isn't like your typical Hunger Games dystopia; it's real and accurate, and plays on people's current emotions and feelings about the government, which is what makes this book so thrilling and eerie.
I cannot wait to get the next book in the series, whenever that may be and when I have time to read it (because, as Careen once was, I am a broke college student with an unfortunate amount of textbooks to purchase and read).
I was shocked at how close to reality some of the events taking place in the book are to reality, especially with the recent presidential election here in the U.S. And I was once again reminded that this story takes place in the not-so-distant future; one that I could very well be living in in years to come. This series isn't like your typical Hunger Games dystopia; it's real and accurate, and plays on people's current emotions and feelings about the government, which is what makes this book so thrilling and eerie.
I cannot wait to get the next book in the series, whenever that may be and when I have time to read it (because, as Careen once was, I am a broke college student with an unfortunate amount of textbooks to purchase and read).
September 5, 2016
You say you want a revolution? Well, you know...
Following right on the heels of Counteract, Resist takes us further into the struggles of young heroes Tommy and Careen as they attempt to bring down an evil government agency, the OCSD, and its leader Madalyn, who is desperate to retain total control over the population. No longer the innocent waifs they one were, Tommy and Careen plan strategies with their fellow rebels - not exactly the best backdrop for a relationship.
The plot, as before, was fast-paced and entertaining, and Tommy and Careen are great characters. You can't help but hope they end up together, despite circumstances trying to force them apart. I am thankful Ignite is out now, so I can see how this saga ends!
Following right on the heels of Counteract, Resist takes us further into the struggles of young heroes Tommy and Careen as they attempt to bring down an evil government agency, the OCSD, and its leader Madalyn, who is desperate to retain total control over the population. No longer the innocent waifs they one were, Tommy and Careen plan strategies with their fellow rebels - not exactly the best backdrop for a relationship.
The plot, as before, was fast-paced and entertaining, and Tommy and Careen are great characters. You can't help but hope they end up together, despite circumstances trying to force them apart. I am thankful Ignite is out now, so I can see how this saga ends!
July 13, 2016
I read this on a recent trip from Texas to Yellowstone National Park, and since I didn't want to try to type a review on my cellphone, I waited a couple of weeks before sitting down to write this. As it is, I have read three other books since I finished Resist, but this story has stayed with me through all that. It is a warning to all of us that our government is made up of individuals who become easily addicted to power, and that fear can be such an effective and powerful tool to expand that power.
December 12, 2017
5 Cranky Stars
YASSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS! This book did not disappoint me at all. This is one of those dystopian series that every fan of the genre must read. The book starts off with action which is an amazing way to capture my attention.
We get to see more of the secondary characters from the first book, and we get to know them a lot better in this go around. You don’t know how important that is to me. Tracy Lawson does not disappoint with her character development. The plot was amazing. The action had me sitting on the edge of the seat almost afraid to turn the page.
I will recommend Resist to fellow dystopian readers.
YASSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS! This book did not disappoint me at all. This is one of those dystopian series that every fan of the genre must read. The book starts off with action which is an amazing way to capture my attention.
We get to see more of the secondary characters from the first book, and we get to know them a lot better in this go around. You don’t know how important that is to me. Tracy Lawson does not disappoint with her character development. The plot was amazing. The action had me sitting on the edge of the seat almost afraid to turn the page.
I will recommend Resist to fellow dystopian readers.
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