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Implant
Welcome to the world of a universal cure. Gordon Harding didn’t ask for the life he has. He didn’t ask to be orphaned. He didn’t ask to go through life with cancer. And he certainly didn’t ask to be pulled into a future world without warning–a world where every human being is controlled by means of a medical implant. And when he learns that he’s the only one who can destroy the base of operations, he’s faced with an impossibly painful either hide and let the world decay under this mysterious futuristic force, or rescue humanity from oppression, knowing that there’s someone out there who is willing to use any means necessary to stop him.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2015
2 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
J. Grace Pennington
44 books144 followersJ. Grace Pennington has been telling stories since she could talk, and writing them down since age five. Now she lives in the great state of Texas, where she writes as much as adult life permits. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading good books, having adventures with her husband and daughters, and looking up at the stars.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 24, 2015
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
This. Book. Is. Amazing.
Seriously. A. Maz. Ing.
Like, read in an afternoon, cannot put it down amazing.
I was a little nervous, having never read any of this author's books before, though several were on my TBR list. I'll be remedying that now that I've read Implant. :) It's set in a not too distant future, and revolves around the idea of an implant that effectively eliminates disease and illness- but is able to track and kill someone as well.
What I liked:
It was unique! I've read lots of books, and sometimes I'm disappointed because it feels like I'm reading the same old thing. Implant was like no book I had read before.
It was unpredictable! I'm a hard to surprise bookworm. Maybe because I've read so much? Anyway, I've usually guessed the end/big reveal before it happens. Except with this one. I believe there was one detail I accurately predicted, and it wasn't even a major plot point. There were so many twists- All masterfully executed and brilliantly pulled off!
Plus, there was no romance. I don't mind romance in books (I'm a fangirl, what can I say? ;), but I must say it was refreshing to read one without any.
The Characters: Oh, the characters. OH THE CHARACTERS. They were real, and relatable, and human. They had their flaws, and their personalities, and their secrets. (Might we pause for a second to appreciate the secrets? I never knew who to trust! See "it was unpredictable" above :D )
What I disliked:
A few scenes I had to read twice because I wasn't quite sure what had happened. Other than that, um, hm... *crickets* I honestly can't think of anything else to put here...
I'd recommend this to anyone who loves sci-fi, spec fic, and action. It'd probably be best for ages thirteen and up, because of the intensity.
Five full stars!
This. Book. Is. Amazing.
Seriously. A. Maz. Ing.
Like, read in an afternoon, cannot put it down amazing.
I was a little nervous, having never read any of this author's books before, though several were on my TBR list. I'll be remedying that now that I've read Implant. :) It's set in a not too distant future, and revolves around the idea of an implant that effectively eliminates disease and illness- but is able to track and kill someone as well.
What I liked:
It was unique! I've read lots of books, and sometimes I'm disappointed because it feels like I'm reading the same old thing. Implant was like no book I had read before.
It was unpredictable! I'm a hard to surprise bookworm. Maybe because I've read so much? Anyway, I've usually guessed the end/big reveal before it happens. Except with this one. I believe there was one detail I accurately predicted, and it wasn't even a major plot point. There were so many twists- All masterfully executed and brilliantly pulled off!
Plus, there was no romance. I don't mind romance in books (I'm a fangirl, what can I say? ;), but I must say it was refreshing to read one without any.
The Characters: Oh, the characters. OH THE CHARACTERS. They were real, and relatable, and human. They had their flaws, and their personalities, and their secrets. (Might we pause for a second to appreciate the secrets? I never knew who to trust! See "it was unpredictable" above :D )
What I disliked:
A few scenes I had to read twice because I wasn't quite sure what had happened. Other than that, um, hm... *crickets* I honestly can't think of anything else to put here...
I'd recommend this to anyone who loves sci-fi, spec fic, and action. It'd probably be best for ages thirteen and up, because of the intensity.
Five full stars!
October 26, 2016
I picked this book up on a whim and was immediately sucked in. It had such a clever, interesting sci-fi plot that wasn't too confusing but just mysterious enough to keep me flipping pages. ;) I was also pleased with the character development (especially the big reveal near the end!). The banter between Doc and Neil was especially fun. Just a note that it describes battles and death pretty graphically at some points, but a good skim reader could still read it.
I highly recommend this fantastic story to all lovers of futuristic stories!
I highly recommend this fantastic story to all lovers of futuristic stories!
June 21, 2016
Woah.
Review coming eventually.
Review coming eventually.
January 15, 2018
Implant is a gripping science fiction tale set in the not-too-distant future. It follows the story of a young man named Gordon Harding as he's suddenly thrust into a future world that he doesn't understand. Gordon is a very average guy, the typical antihero, but the story doesn't come across as clichéd. Gordon is likable and relatable. Secondary characters, like Neil and Doc, are also well-developed.
The setting in the opening chapters was a little confusing to me at first. The world is so similar to current day, but with a few obvious things that are "off" just enough as to be foreign that I had difficulty placing where in time we were. The year is never explicitly stated and the reader has to do some math with a little hint that is easily missed. There are a couple more tidbits that are given in the second half of the book that finally makes things clearer when you figure it out, but I do wish Pennington would have provided a few more hints earlier in the story to help put things in context. Aside from that slight annoyance, the story world is vivid and lifelike.
The plot progresses at the perfect clip; quick enough to keep one's attention, but not so fast that you feel like you're in a whirlwind and can't keep up. The whole story seems to have been well thought out and even the tertiary characters feel very intentional. A few of the elements were a tad predictable and I had figured out how a few things were going to turn out. Even so, it was not a disappointment when I reached the last pages and found out I was correct. And there were still enough surprises along the way to keep me interested and turning the pages.
I loved Pennington's writing style. The way she tells a story is so engrossing that I was thoroughly enthralled. There is a realness to the way she puts a character's thoughts on the page that just rings true. This is only the second book that I've read by her, but her prose is exceptional. Some of the best I've read by a self-published/indie author.
The only content advisory for this book is that there are some very explicit descriptions of violence and death that some may find bothersome. Overall, Implant is a well-written sci-fi story with great characters and a compelling plot that was a pleasure to read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will probably read it again at some point.
The setting in the opening chapters was a little confusing to me at first. The world is so similar to current day, but with a few obvious things that are "off" just enough as to be foreign that I had difficulty placing where in time we were. The year is never explicitly stated and the reader has to do some math with a little hint that is easily missed. There are a couple more tidbits that are given in the second half of the book that finally makes things clearer when you figure it out, but I do wish Pennington would have provided a few more hints earlier in the story to help put things in context. Aside from that slight annoyance, the story world is vivid and lifelike.
The plot progresses at the perfect clip; quick enough to keep one's attention, but not so fast that you feel like you're in a whirlwind and can't keep up. The whole story seems to have been well thought out and even the tertiary characters feel very intentional. A few of the elements were a tad predictable and I had figured out how a few things were going to turn out. Even so, it was not a disappointment when I reached the last pages and found out I was correct. And there were still enough surprises along the way to keep me interested and turning the pages.
I loved Pennington's writing style. The way she tells a story is so engrossing that I was thoroughly enthralled. There is a realness to the way she puts a character's thoughts on the page that just rings true. This is only the second book that I've read by her, but her prose is exceptional. Some of the best I've read by a self-published/indie author.
The only content advisory for this book is that there are some very explicit descriptions of violence and death that some may find bothersome. Overall, Implant is a well-written sci-fi story with great characters and a compelling plot that was a pleasure to read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will probably read it again at some point.
October 18, 2015
I've had J Grace Pennington's sci-fi recommended to me before by people I trust. In addition, I'm always excited to discover new Christian authors writing unconventional fiction dealing with real-world themes, so I was thrilled to have the chance of a review copy of IMPLANT.
Nor was I disappointed.
IMPLANT is a taut, well-written thriller/sci-fi dystopia with plenty of enjoyable aspects.
I have a particularly sensitive ear for writing style, which is where a lot of books fall short for me. One of my favourite things about IMPLANT was Pennington's clear, strong, direct voice; prose that carried you along with the story and never faltered.
I enjoyed the tight plot and much of the characterisation. According to Miss Pennington's bio, she works as a medical transcriptionist, and the medical details in the story added a welcome depth to the setting.
It was also refreshing to dip into a YA novel with a bit more heft than the usual fare. No love triangles, brooding teen heroes, or annoyingly spunky red-headed heroines here. The protagonist is male (yay!) and a very realistically flawed character who it was easy to care out. The message of maturity and responsibility was God-honouring without devolving into cloying Christianese. This is exactly the kind of YA fiction we desperately need.
Finally, I was thoroughly impressed by the editing, the cover design and the interior formatting. Kudos to Miss Pennington for taking the time and having the discernment to see to these often overlooked aspects.
I do have some criticisms. A jaded story-hearer, I foresaw the plot twists and would have liked a bit more misdirection about the direction the plot was headed in. For example, I correctly predicted a character death based on the introduction of his family members in a certain scene. Otherwise, I found aspects of the futuristic setting a little sparse and would have liked to have seen it fleshed out in more depth. While some scenes were extremely touching, in others, the characters' emotional reactions seemed a little shallow. It would also have been nice to see the scientific/medical speculation play a greater role in the story itself rather than just acting as stage-dressing.
That said, IMPLANT is a thoroughly competent story which I'd recommend to anyone looking for a gripping read with a sci-fi edge, especially for teens.
Nor was I disappointed.
IMPLANT is a taut, well-written thriller/sci-fi dystopia with plenty of enjoyable aspects.
I have a particularly sensitive ear for writing style, which is where a lot of books fall short for me. One of my favourite things about IMPLANT was Pennington's clear, strong, direct voice; prose that carried you along with the story and never faltered.
I enjoyed the tight plot and much of the characterisation. According to Miss Pennington's bio, she works as a medical transcriptionist, and the medical details in the story added a welcome depth to the setting.
It was also refreshing to dip into a YA novel with a bit more heft than the usual fare. No love triangles, brooding teen heroes, or annoyingly spunky red-headed heroines here. The protagonist is male (yay!) and a very realistically flawed character who it was easy to care out. The message of maturity and responsibility was God-honouring without devolving into cloying Christianese. This is exactly the kind of YA fiction we desperately need.
Finally, I was thoroughly impressed by the editing, the cover design and the interior formatting. Kudos to Miss Pennington for taking the time and having the discernment to see to these often overlooked aspects.
I do have some criticisms. A jaded story-hearer, I foresaw the plot twists and would have liked a bit more misdirection about the direction the plot was headed in. For example, I correctly predicted a character death based on the introduction of his family members in a certain scene. Otherwise, I found aspects of the futuristic setting a little sparse and would have liked to have seen it fleshed out in more depth. While some scenes were extremely touching, in others, the characters' emotional reactions seemed a little shallow. It would also have been nice to see the scientific/medical speculation play a greater role in the story itself rather than just acting as stage-dressing.
That said, IMPLANT is a thoroughly competent story which I'd recommend to anyone looking for a gripping read with a sci-fi edge, especially for teens.
January 1, 2016
This book is pretty good at being exactly what it advertises itself to be: A clean, fairly mellow dystopian thriller. If you are looking for a "Christian" novel, move on - nothing to see here. God is not mentioned in Implant. At best, this book teaches us that compassion and freedom are supremely important, and that the former is necessary in order to preserve the latter. After I had read it, I felt like I had watched a really good secular movie. (O thou creature of vanishing rarity!) But it didn't inspire me to glorify God, or make me think on the things of Christ.
The lack of a “Christian” message is not why I gave the book three stars instead of four. I wasn't expecting one, and wouldn't require the book to be something I already knew it wasn't. Implant is a two-way time travel story, and in such stories, some logical issues are unavoidable. (What if you kill your ancestors, or your descendants kill you?) What I felt could have been avoided was a pretty plain violation of the cosmic truth revealed in Hebrews 9:27. If you don't want a hint at a spoiler, don't look up that Scripture until you've read the book. But if you read one in light of the other, I don't see how the contradiction can be explained away.
I actually stayed up quite late to finish this book, making me realize why Sarah Holman calls Pennington “The Sleep Stealer.” Three stars or no, I am not sorry I read Implant, and one day I will probably read it again.
The lack of a “Christian” message is not why I gave the book three stars instead of four. I wasn't expecting one, and wouldn't require the book to be something I already knew it wasn't. Implant is a two-way time travel story, and in such stories, some logical issues are unavoidable. (What if you kill your ancestors, or your descendants kill you?) What I felt could have been avoided was a pretty plain violation of the cosmic truth revealed in Hebrews 9:27. If you don't want a hint at a spoiler, don't look up that Scripture until you've read the book. But if you read one in light of the other, I don't see how the contradiction can be explained away.
I actually stayed up quite late to finish this book, making me realize why Sarah Holman calls Pennington “The Sleep Stealer.” Three stars or no, I am not sorry I read Implant, and one day I will probably read it again.
August 27, 2015
Recommended for: Ages 12 to Adult
Rating: PG-13 (violence and medical)
Wow. Just wow. Because I volunteered late with uncertain reading time, I wasn't sure I'd get the book done in time for this, but I ended up with plenty of time to read Wednesday and read the whole thing. In one day. I've come to expect no less than fantastic from Grace's books, and this certainly complied with that expectation. I finished it with the same awe and "I wish I could write like that" with which I finished Radialloy. Implant is amazing, and everyone should read it.
Writing: 5/5
Have I said it in this post yet? Grace is an amazing writer. Her writing is concise and her descriptions concrete. Throughout the entire book, I could clearly see all the places and events in my mind. I could feel the emotion. I tensed during the action. I was shocked at the plot twists. I lived the story. I was there with Gordon experiencing it. Grace knows just the right words to use to pull in the reader. Just as I was in the Dead Mines with Travis Hamilton, just as I traveled in the Surveyor with Andi Lloyd, I was pulled to a future dystopia with Gordon Harding. Just perfect.
Setting: 5/5
The entire thing is at least somewhat in the future. Gordon's home time period is not so different from now, and the future is a war torn nation. But it didn't feel cliche or anything. After all, Grace wrote the book before the dystopian craze really began. And there really aren't too many settings. Just the few places there needed to be. I'll talk about the medical aspect and the time travel in this section too. There's basically always something to do with medicine in Grace's books. Gordon's father was a doctor. His mentor back home is a doctor. In the future, Doc is obviously a doctor. And since it centers around medical implants, much of the story involves medical stuff. There is some futuristic medicine, but it all felt very realistic. I trust Grace to know what she's talking about in that area. :) The time travel also felt realistic. It wasn't your typical hop in a spaceship, go where you want to go (or where your TARDIS thinks you're most needed). Gordon is pulled through time, and it's a very calculated, not very certain, scientific experiment. It's not explained in detail, but it works well for the story.
Plot: 5/5
Grace is a master at plot twists. And mysteries. And plots in general. Obviously, I can't give much away or it would ruin the book. But while it does have the same save-the-world as most dystopians, it's not the same save-the-world as the typical dystopian. Gordon is out of his time period. He doesn't really have a lot invested in saving it. But he's gradually convinced that he should do something. And the twist. I did not see it coming. I felt like I should have, but I didn't. I was able to guess a few things accurately once that twist was revealed, but before, I had no idea what would happen, or if they would even succeed. No more, because I don't want to give spoilers, and I know I will if I keep talking about it.
Character Development: 4.5/5
I would probably have liked to get to know the characters a little deeper, but that doesn't mean they weren't well drawn and unique. They certainly were. The story is just so fast paced there really isn't any downtime, is all. Gordon Harding is a high school graduate with a job working for a doctor, Baum, but he has severe anemia which turns out to be caused by leukemia. Not exactly the sort of guy you'd picture as an action hero. Combined with the fact that he doesn't know who to trust and sometimes makes stupid mistakes. But his mistakes are completely relatable ones, which I would probably also make in the same circumstances. And he hates oatmeal. Just a briefly mentioned fact, but it stuck with me because, well, so do I. Doc is...not what you'd expect from a doctor. He seems quite heartless and unfeeling, but he's hiding a secret which made him that way. He's not what you'd expect from a mentor, even though he does constantly push Gordon to be better. Then there's Neil Crater. He's a man with principles, and a man determined to save the world.
Implant is a roller coaster of emotions. It is an exciting adventure and a story with a message of freedom, and what it truly means. Just my kind of story, and whether it is yours or not, I think you'll enjoy Implant. It is a book you do not want to miss.
I received a free ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
Rating: PG-13 (violence and medical)
Wow. Just wow. Because I volunteered late with uncertain reading time, I wasn't sure I'd get the book done in time for this, but I ended up with plenty of time to read Wednesday and read the whole thing. In one day. I've come to expect no less than fantastic from Grace's books, and this certainly complied with that expectation. I finished it with the same awe and "I wish I could write like that" with which I finished Radialloy. Implant is amazing, and everyone should read it.
Writing: 5/5
Have I said it in this post yet? Grace is an amazing writer. Her writing is concise and her descriptions concrete. Throughout the entire book, I could clearly see all the places and events in my mind. I could feel the emotion. I tensed during the action. I was shocked at the plot twists. I lived the story. I was there with Gordon experiencing it. Grace knows just the right words to use to pull in the reader. Just as I was in the Dead Mines with Travis Hamilton, just as I traveled in the Surveyor with Andi Lloyd, I was pulled to a future dystopia with Gordon Harding. Just perfect.
Setting: 5/5
The entire thing is at least somewhat in the future. Gordon's home time period is not so different from now, and the future is a war torn nation. But it didn't feel cliche or anything. After all, Grace wrote the book before the dystopian craze really began. And there really aren't too many settings. Just the few places there needed to be. I'll talk about the medical aspect and the time travel in this section too. There's basically always something to do with medicine in Grace's books. Gordon's father was a doctor. His mentor back home is a doctor. In the future, Doc is obviously a doctor. And since it centers around medical implants, much of the story involves medical stuff. There is some futuristic medicine, but it all felt very realistic. I trust Grace to know what she's talking about in that area. :) The time travel also felt realistic. It wasn't your typical hop in a spaceship, go where you want to go (or where your TARDIS thinks you're most needed). Gordon is pulled through time, and it's a very calculated, not very certain, scientific experiment. It's not explained in detail, but it works well for the story.
Plot: 5/5
Grace is a master at plot twists. And mysteries. And plots in general. Obviously, I can't give much away or it would ruin the book. But while it does have the same save-the-world as most dystopians, it's not the same save-the-world as the typical dystopian. Gordon is out of his time period. He doesn't really have a lot invested in saving it. But he's gradually convinced that he should do something. And the twist. I did not see it coming. I felt like I should have, but I didn't. I was able to guess a few things accurately once that twist was revealed, but before, I had no idea what would happen, or if they would even succeed. No more, because I don't want to give spoilers, and I know I will if I keep talking about it.
Character Development: 4.5/5
I would probably have liked to get to know the characters a little deeper, but that doesn't mean they weren't well drawn and unique. They certainly were. The story is just so fast paced there really isn't any downtime, is all. Gordon Harding is a high school graduate with a job working for a doctor, Baum, but he has severe anemia which turns out to be caused by leukemia. Not exactly the sort of guy you'd picture as an action hero. Combined with the fact that he doesn't know who to trust and sometimes makes stupid mistakes. But his mistakes are completely relatable ones, which I would probably also make in the same circumstances. And he hates oatmeal. Just a briefly mentioned fact, but it stuck with me because, well, so do I. Doc is...not what you'd expect from a doctor. He seems quite heartless and unfeeling, but he's hiding a secret which made him that way. He's not what you'd expect from a mentor, even though he does constantly push Gordon to be better. Then there's Neil Crater. He's a man with principles, and a man determined to save the world.
Implant is a roller coaster of emotions. It is an exciting adventure and a story with a message of freedom, and what it truly means. Just my kind of story, and whether it is yours or not, I think you'll enjoy Implant. It is a book you do not want to miss.
I received a free ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 30, 2016
I've heard much about J. Grace Pennington's books for a while, and finally found my chance to read one of hers! My initial thought? I'm impressed.
Starting with the first page, I was dazzled by the author's writing skill. Immediately I could tell she is a writer who has accomplished honing in the craft of working with words. As the story grew, built upon itself, introduced new characters and immersed you into this world where everyone is required to get a medical implant... I was totally engrossed in this story that materialized around me.
More Pros? Let's see... The characters are deep and three-dimensional (they seem so real, that they could have leapt off the pages!). The medical jargon and descriptions of procedures are done well and tastefully; the fact that our main character, a supposed hero, had a life-threatening illness? Priceless. And the plot just grew and twisted skillfully; I never could quite tell where the story was going to go next (and I liked it!).
- - - - - - - - - -
"Well you picked the wrong guy." Gordon could hear his voice raising in pitch, rising with the beating of his heart. "I can barely ride my bike to work. You think I can destroy some control center, when all of you have failed?"
- Implant, J. Grace Pennington
- - - - - - - - - -
Cons? There's not any cons.
But... my personal preference differed slightly on a couple of elements. For example, the Head. By the end of the book, I was hoping to see a glimmer of the villain's true self... I guess I had been hoping for a tiny flash of weakness, shame or sorrow... but that was just my preference.
NOTE to the discerning reader & parents: There are some minor mentions of smoking and drinking. Also, Gordon happens to "fall into" attending a birthing scene -- which I thought was written with tact.
Overall? A thrilling book -- one I could read again.
To end my review, enjoy this comical bit with me:
- - - - - - - - - -
Honestly, it was more than seventy years since Star Trek. Shouldn't doctors be able to beam tissue to some computerized lab that would instantly process it and beam results back by now?
- Implant, J. Grace Pennington
- - - - - - - - - -
Starting with the first page, I was dazzled by the author's writing skill. Immediately I could tell she is a writer who has accomplished honing in the craft of working with words. As the story grew, built upon itself, introduced new characters and immersed you into this world where everyone is required to get a medical implant... I was totally engrossed in this story that materialized around me.
More Pros? Let's see... The characters are deep and three-dimensional (they seem so real, that they could have leapt off the pages!). The medical jargon and descriptions of procedures are done well and tastefully; the fact that our main character, a supposed hero, had a life-threatening illness? Priceless. And the plot just grew and twisted skillfully; I never could quite tell where the story was going to go next (and I liked it!).
- - - - - - - - - -
"Well you picked the wrong guy." Gordon could hear his voice raising in pitch, rising with the beating of his heart. "I can barely ride my bike to work. You think I can destroy some control center, when all of you have failed?"
- Implant, J. Grace Pennington
- - - - - - - - - -
Cons? There's not any cons.
But... my personal preference differed slightly on a couple of elements. For example, the Head. By the end of the book, I was hoping to see a glimmer of the villain's true self... I guess I had been hoping for a tiny flash of weakness, shame or sorrow... but that was just my preference.
NOTE to the discerning reader & parents: There are some minor mentions of smoking and drinking. Also, Gordon happens to "fall into" attending a birthing scene -- which I thought was written with tact.
Overall? A thrilling book -- one I could read again.
To end my review, enjoy this comical bit with me:
- - - - - - - - - -
Honestly, it was more than seventy years since Star Trek. Shouldn't doctors be able to beam tissue to some computerized lab that would instantly process it and beam results back by now?
- Implant, J. Grace Pennington
- - - - - - - - - -
April 3, 2018
Gordon doesn't have an easy life. Weak from anemia, the target of bullying, and orphaned in the aftermath of a scandal caused by a mistake on the part of his doctor father, it doesn't seem that things can get much worse. Until they do.
Reduced to grasping a last-resort, experimental cure, Gordon is sitting in a waiting room when something inexplicable happens. He finds himself in a different place. A dangerous, unfamiliar place. One where there's a cure for everything and a bettering of nothing. Two strangers tell him he's the world's only hope. He's been transported to the future and has only a week before the fold in time rights itself and tosses him back into the waiting room.
I've had this book sitting on my shelf for two years. My brother read it and told me I needed to make time for it. Tonight was the night. After a bit of a reading drought, I randomly decided to grab a book and spend an hour reading. One hour turned into two-and-a-half, and I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting--something I haven't done in a really long time!
Gordon was a really compelling character. A real ordinary hero. Burdened with a terminal illness, asked to be a hero, and ill-equipped (sometimes even unwilling) for the job in front of him. He's got a normal, sweet personality that makes him easy to follow along and empathize with. The mistakes he makes are ones I'd definitely make too! And every time he finds the courage to do the right thing, you get a little sense of satisfaction with him. Also, the author managed to pull of an ending that was "happy" and satisfying without being the brand of perfect that only happens in fiction.
If you like sci-fi with lots of world building, a huge cast, and a winding, epic plot ... this isn't that brand of sci-fi. Personally, I loose interest with hard core sci-fi. I end up skimming through the technical science parts and bulky world building passages, and I invariably miss essential plot points in the process. Implant is straight forward, focusing on the characters and using the sci-fi setting to drive their journey. Works for me!
Overall, definitely would recommend this story, especially for any fellow dystopian-lovers out there.
Reduced to grasping a last-resort, experimental cure, Gordon is sitting in a waiting room when something inexplicable happens. He finds himself in a different place. A dangerous, unfamiliar place. One where there's a cure for everything and a bettering of nothing. Two strangers tell him he's the world's only hope. He's been transported to the future and has only a week before the fold in time rights itself and tosses him back into the waiting room.
I've had this book sitting on my shelf for two years. My brother read it and told me I needed to make time for it. Tonight was the night. After a bit of a reading drought, I randomly decided to grab a book and spend an hour reading. One hour turned into two-and-a-half, and I ended up reading the entire book in one sitting--something I haven't done in a really long time!
Gordon was a really compelling character. A real ordinary hero. Burdened with a terminal illness, asked to be a hero, and ill-equipped (sometimes even unwilling) for the job in front of him. He's got a normal, sweet personality that makes him easy to follow along and empathize with. The mistakes he makes are ones I'd definitely make too! And every time he finds the courage to do the right thing, you get a little sense of satisfaction with him. Also, the author managed to pull of an ending that was "happy" and satisfying without being the brand of perfect that only happens in fiction.
If you like sci-fi with lots of world building, a huge cast, and a winding, epic plot ... this isn't that brand of sci-fi. Personally, I loose interest with hard core sci-fi. I end up skimming through the technical science parts and bulky world building passages, and I invariably miss essential plot points in the process. Implant is straight forward, focusing on the characters and using the sci-fi setting to drive their journey. Works for me!
Overall, definitely would recommend this story, especially for any fellow dystopian-lovers out there.
May 28, 2017
At first, I found it to be kind of slow. I liked it, but it was slow. I really liked the characters, but not so much the plot. Then out of nowhere A Twist showed up, everything fell into place, and then I couldn't stop reading.
This book has wonderful characters that debate morality and attitude, and I love these characters. (Especially Doc. #SorryNotSorry)
Recommended 12/13+ for violence and death.
This book has wonderful characters that debate morality and attitude, and I love these characters. (Especially Doc. #SorryNotSorry)
Recommended 12/13+ for violence and death.
November 29, 2018
I read it too fast to absorb, but I liked what I got. It's scarily accurate.
October 16, 2015
One look at my bookshelf and you’ll quickly realize that dystopia and science fiction really isn’t my thing. Honestly, I hadn’t read anything from either genre until this month when I read "Implant" by J. Grace Pennington.
"Implant" first came across my radar when I saw a tweet about it on Twitter. I’d previously heard great things about her science fiction trilogy, and the synopsis for this upcoming release sounded intriguing. My interest heightened during the release week party and I mentally jotted it down as something I wanted to try out at some point. When, at the end of September, Miss Pennington sent out a request for volunteer reviewers, I jumped at the opportunity.
And I am glad I did. "Implant" wastes little time in throwing Gordon Harding, a newly diagnosed leukemia patient, into a future society he quickly learns he helped bring about. The writing is vivid and doesn’t sugar coat the terrible things Gordon witnesses, while at the same time not focusing on the graphic details of wounds or deaths.
The characters are gripping. Doc in particular is a fascinating character to watch unfold on the page as you read. His brusque manner and chain smoking habits first strike you negatively, but you quickly learn there’s so much more to him beyond his outward appearance. His friendship of sorts with the rebel leader Neil Crater was one of my favorite aspects of the story. It’s a complicated relationship, but at the same time they work extraordinarily well together.
The story’s lessons on the high cost of fighting for freedom, how the easy way isn’t always the right way, and how our actions and choices vitally impact those around us are timeless. A number of the themes explored in "Implant" are very timely for our culture and important for people to be aware of, especially with the speed technology is growing.
I would definitely recommend "Implant" to readers of dystopia and science fiction, and to people who have even a passing interest in the genre or the themes the novel explores. While dystopia and science fiction still isn’t my thing, I will definitely be checking out Miss Pennington’s other works and future releases.
I received a free digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
"Implant" first came across my radar when I saw a tweet about it on Twitter. I’d previously heard great things about her science fiction trilogy, and the synopsis for this upcoming release sounded intriguing. My interest heightened during the release week party and I mentally jotted it down as something I wanted to try out at some point. When, at the end of September, Miss Pennington sent out a request for volunteer reviewers, I jumped at the opportunity.
And I am glad I did. "Implant" wastes little time in throwing Gordon Harding, a newly diagnosed leukemia patient, into a future society he quickly learns he helped bring about. The writing is vivid and doesn’t sugar coat the terrible things Gordon witnesses, while at the same time not focusing on the graphic details of wounds or deaths.
The characters are gripping. Doc in particular is a fascinating character to watch unfold on the page as you read. His brusque manner and chain smoking habits first strike you negatively, but you quickly learn there’s so much more to him beyond his outward appearance. His friendship of sorts with the rebel leader Neil Crater was one of my favorite aspects of the story. It’s a complicated relationship, but at the same time they work extraordinarily well together.
The story’s lessons on the high cost of fighting for freedom, how the easy way isn’t always the right way, and how our actions and choices vitally impact those around us are timeless. A number of the themes explored in "Implant" are very timely for our culture and important for people to be aware of, especially with the speed technology is growing.
I would definitely recommend "Implant" to readers of dystopia and science fiction, and to people who have even a passing interest in the genre or the themes the novel explores. While dystopia and science fiction still isn’t my thing, I will definitely be checking out Miss Pennington’s other works and future releases.
I received a free digital copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2016
I don't usually read science fiction or time travel, but I enjoyed Implant. It was different in other ways to what I usually read; no strong Christian message, mostly male characters.
There was nothing about it that annoyed me. The science didn't seem to far out, the characters were realistic. The was certainly enough plot and stakes.
The theme I could see was about doing your best, and not regretting what was past. It covered the awkward dilemma of whether to stick to principles or try to save people. And it showed how sometimes you do what seems right and something bad happens because of it. The outcome doesn't change right to wrong. We can't change the past, we can only change the future.
Which creates an interesting time-travel situation at the end of the book. Gordon is back in his own time, with a knowledge of what the future could hold and the power to choose differently. Which puts the whole story as more of a vision of what the future could hold than an actuality. In general, I prefer time-travel that is fixed. Your time travel was always a part of history. But this was interesting and just as valid a view of things.
I loved how this wasn't a book with an ordinary heroic, or even reluctant protagonist.. Gordon isn't the typical hero. He has leukaemia and can hardly ride his bike to school. He's just a boy and he's expected to act like a man. The other characters, Neil and Doc in particular, were a bit different too. Sceptical, not very caring, kind of jaded. But with another side. They felt real and made sense in the circumstances.
I didn't guess any of the twists in the story. At least don't think I did. It's too long since I originally read it. But I wasn't trying all that hard. On the other hand they weren't crazy world changing twists.
Overall it's a good book, especially if you like futuristic stories and a male dominated plot. Or medical science. And even if you don't you still might like it. I did.
There was nothing about it that annoyed me. The science didn't seem to far out, the characters were realistic. The was certainly enough plot and stakes.
The theme I could see was about doing your best, and not regretting what was past. It covered the awkward dilemma of whether to stick to principles or try to save people. And it showed how sometimes you do what seems right and something bad happens because of it. The outcome doesn't change right to wrong. We can't change the past, we can only change the future.
Which creates an interesting time-travel situation at the end of the book. Gordon is back in his own time, with a knowledge of what the future could hold and the power to choose differently. Which puts the whole story as more of a vision of what the future could hold than an actuality. In general, I prefer time-travel that is fixed. Your time travel was always a part of history. But this was interesting and just as valid a view of things.
I loved how this wasn't a book with an ordinary heroic, or even reluctant protagonist.. Gordon isn't the typical hero. He has leukaemia and can hardly ride his bike to school. He's just a boy and he's expected to act like a man. The other characters, Neil and Doc in particular, were a bit different too. Sceptical, not very caring, kind of jaded. But with another side. They felt real and made sense in the circumstances.
I didn't guess any of the twists in the story. At least don't think I did. It's too long since I originally read it. But I wasn't trying all that hard. On the other hand they weren't crazy world changing twists.
Overall it's a good book, especially if you like futuristic stories and a male dominated plot. Or medical science. And even if you don't you still might like it. I did.
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June 19, 20173.5
This is a light SF read, easy to read and quite likeable. It features a boy called Gordon who dying of leukaemia and consequently quite weak yet he still chooses the path of bravery, doing what he thinks is right in ethically difficult circumstances. He is about to accept an implant that will restore him to health, when he is thrown into the future by rebels who refuse the global implementation of the implant. Can Gordon trust these rebels? Will he choose health over freedom?
For me (as a forty year old woman! So perhaps not the target audience) this lacked complexity and the twists were easy to guess. For a younger reader who is looking for a not very violent, light SF read, you should enjoy this.
This is a light SF read, easy to read and quite likeable. It features a boy called Gordon who dying of leukaemia and consequently quite weak yet he still chooses the path of bravery, doing what he thinks is right in ethically difficult circumstances. He is about to accept an implant that will restore him to health, when he is thrown into the future by rebels who refuse the global implementation of the implant. Can Gordon trust these rebels? Will he choose health over freedom?
For me (as a forty year old woman! So perhaps not the target audience) this lacked complexity and the twists were easy to guess. For a younger reader who is looking for a not very violent, light SF read, you should enjoy this.
February 5, 2016
Even though I've recently decided that I don't like dystopian, I did enjoy this book. The main character get catapulted to the future where the world has become cured of all disease thanks to an implant that everyone is required to get. Naturally, some have taken exception to this rule.
The time travel aspect was really neat. I liked how the author didn't make it too complicated to understand. The world was interesting with plenty of science fiction-ish things to keep you interested. The dystopian part wasn't too overdone, and overall storyline seemed a bit more hopeful that your run-of-the-mill dystopian stories.
The characters were all great. Gordon wasn't perfect. He made mistakes, but he had very natural reactions. I couldn't really fault him for anything he did. Doc and Neil were really interesting. Although I never could quite figure out why they were so antagonistic towards each other. (Maybe I missed something and can pick it up on a re-read).
The beginning was a little slow, it did pick up the pace and I finished the last half of the book pretty much in one sitting. There were quite a few twists along the way to the conclusion, most of which left me wondering how the heck the characters were going to get out of their situation!
Recommended for anyone who likes dystopian, time travel, science fiction, or just great stories. :)
The time travel aspect was really neat. I liked how the author didn't make it too complicated to understand. The world was interesting with plenty of science fiction-ish things to keep you interested. The dystopian part wasn't too overdone, and overall storyline seemed a bit more hopeful that your run-of-the-mill dystopian stories.
The characters were all great. Gordon wasn't perfect. He made mistakes, but he had very natural reactions. I couldn't really fault him for anything he did. Doc and Neil were really interesting. Although I never could quite figure out why they were so antagonistic towards each other. (Maybe I missed something and can pick it up on a re-read).
The beginning was a little slow, it did pick up the pace and I finished the last half of the book pretty much in one sitting. There were quite a few twists along the way to the conclusion, most of which left me wondering how the heck the characters were going to get out of their situation!
Recommended for anyone who likes dystopian, time travel, science fiction, or just great stories. :)
October 31, 2017
*Swallows*
I don't even know what to say. This was sooo good, y'all! What an amazing, profound story! The characters were great! Their arcs, progression, pov's, etc. were spot on! Although, I did have a bit of a hard time connecting to the MC, but he was still very well developed. And plot? Sooooo cool! It was terribly exciting! And those twists?!?!? I anticipated the big baddie, but not the other one! That was totally crazy! It made so much sense, but I did not see it coming! This story ends so well, it leaves you uncertain of the outcome, you don't know if it's all gonna be 'okay', but certain that there is HOPE! That peoples lives WILL be lived better. Bravo!
I don't even know what to say. This was sooo good, y'all! What an amazing, profound story! The characters were great! Their arcs, progression, pov's, etc. were spot on! Although, I did have a bit of a hard time connecting to the MC, but he was still very well developed. And plot? Sooooo cool! It was terribly exciting! And those twists?!?!? I anticipated the big baddie, but not the other one! That was totally crazy! It made so much sense, but I did not see it coming! This story ends so well, it leaves you uncertain of the outcome, you don't know if it's all gonna be 'okay', but certain that there is HOPE! That peoples lives WILL be lived better. Bravo!
July 27, 2016
I really enjoyed Implant, even though I don't often read sci-fi. It had an interesting question to pose (and to answer): freedom, or perfect health? The journey the main character takes is complex, and Pennington's writing really brings his view-point to life for the reader. I love it when there is a surprising turn to a story, and Pennington pulls this off several times. I recommend Implant to readers of all kinds; even if you are not into sci-fi, you will enjoy the story.
July 25, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. loved the sci fi combined with the medical advances that appear very realistic. A lot of interesting information. Likeable characters that had depth to them and almost jumped out of the book as I became more engrossed in its reading. Can't wait to read what comes next.
July 1, 2016
It was a pretty good book, but a little confusing at times. I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I wouldn't let younger audiences read it because it is a little intense in parts and there is a bit of killing. I would recommend it to ages 13-up.
December 23, 2015
I enjoyed the twists and turns in this story! It is well written and hard to put down. An excellent book to pick up over Winter break!
October 12, 2016
A little (or a lot) predictable, but really enjoyable! Review to come!
July 31, 2017
While the idea was interesting and the plot unpredictable , I had a hard time getting into this book.
Gordon has leukemia and has about five years left. When he hears about an experimental treatment - a new chip implant - he decides to go for it. After all, what does he have to lose? On the day he arrives at the Academy for the implant, he is whisked into the future and sees what really ends up happening with this chip technology.
What will Gordon do with the information he receives in the future?
Gordon has leukemia and has about five years left. When he hears about an experimental treatment - a new chip implant - he decides to go for it. After all, what does he have to lose? On the day he arrives at the Academy for the implant, he is whisked into the future and sees what really ends up happening with this chip technology.
What will Gordon do with the information he receives in the future?
May 25, 2017
Review to come. :)
March 2, 2017
I have really mixed thoughts on this book.
As always, J. Grace Pennington wrote in amazing style that pulled me in right away. The characters and setting were very vividly described, and made me feel like I was really there. I loved Neil's character, he was very likable. Okay, and the Star Trek reference made me happy.
This book felt gritty, like it dived into a lot more of the dirty side of life, which was not necessarily a problem it just isn't really what I like reading about so it detracted a lot from the book for me.
Also
Overall, there was nothing bad in this book, it just was not my cup of tea. But I can really see a lot of people like this book. Its clean, very well written, and has a message that a lot of us can relate to.
As always, J. Grace Pennington wrote in amazing style that pulled me in right away. The characters and setting were very vividly described, and made me feel like I was really there. I loved Neil's character, he was very likable. Okay, and the Star Trek reference made me happy.
This book felt gritty, like it dived into a lot more of the dirty side of life, which was not necessarily a problem it just isn't really what I like reading about so it detracted a lot from the book for me.
Also
Overall, there was nothing bad in this book, it just was not my cup of tea. But I can really see a lot of people like this book. Its clean, very well written, and has a message that a lot of us can relate to.
October 22, 2015
Honestly, for the first two-thirds of the book I wasn't really feeling all that positive towards the story. I felt that there were a lot of loose threads and plot loopholes. The thing that kept me reading was the characters, which I must say, have to be some of Pennington's best characters ever!
But by the final third of the book, all of the threads tied together, and plot holes were filled in beautifully. The pace picked up very quickly, a few plot twists were thrown in, add that to the amazing characters, and it made for a very satisfying ending.
Pennington is a very skilled author whom I have a great admiration for. I highly recommend this book!
But by the final third of the book, all of the threads tied together, and plot holes were filled in beautifully. The pace picked up very quickly, a few plot twists were thrown in, add that to the amazing characters, and it made for a very satisfying ending.
Pennington is a very skilled author whom I have a great admiration for. I highly recommend this book!
December 14, 2016
Full review here: http://oliviasinkspots.blogspot.com/2...
I'm not sure why, but something about this novel felt off to me. But I liked the growth Gordon undergoes, and the plot twists were done well. The antagonist's motives are interesting too, but it took me a minute to understand.
But overall, I liked this novel. The interactions between Doc and Neil were interesting, and Doc's interacting with Gordon was nice, especially later on. It was a fun story.
I'm not sure why, but something about this novel felt off to me. But I liked the growth Gordon undergoes, and the plot twists were done well. The antagonist's motives are interesting too, but it took me a minute to understand.
But overall, I liked this novel. The interactions between Doc and Neil were interesting, and Doc's interacting with Gordon was nice, especially later on. It was a fun story.
December 16, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! I do wish there was an epilogue or something to see what happens after the book. The end was a little confusing.
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