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The Cage #2
The Hunt
They’ve left the cage—but they’re not free yet.
After their failed escape attempt, Cora, Lucky, and Mali have been demoted to the lowest level of human captives and placed in a safari-themed environment called the Hunt, along with wild animals and other human outcasts. They must serve new Kindred masters—Cora as a lounge singer, Lucky as an animal wrangler, and Mali as a safari guide—and follow new rules or face dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, Nok and Rolf have been moved into an enormous dollhouse, observed around the clock by Kindred scientists interested in Nok’s pregnancy. And Leon, the only one who successfully escaped, has teamed up with villainous Mosca black-market traders.
The former inhabitants of the Cage are threatened on all fronts—and maybe worst of all, one of the Hunt’s Kindred safari guests begins to play a twisted game of cat and mouse with Cora. Separated and constantly under watch, she and the others must struggle to stay alive, never mind find a way back to each other. When Cassian secretly offers to train Cora to develop her psychic abilities—to prove the worthiness of humanity in a series of tests called the Gauntlet—she’ll have to decide fast if she dares to trust the Kindred who betrayed her, or if she can forge her own way to freedom.
After their failed escape attempt, Cora, Lucky, and Mali have been demoted to the lowest level of human captives and placed in a safari-themed environment called the Hunt, along with wild animals and other human outcasts. They must serve new Kindred masters—Cora as a lounge singer, Lucky as an animal wrangler, and Mali as a safari guide—and follow new rules or face dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, Nok and Rolf have been moved into an enormous dollhouse, observed around the clock by Kindred scientists interested in Nok’s pregnancy. And Leon, the only one who successfully escaped, has teamed up with villainous Mosca black-market traders.
The former inhabitants of the Cage are threatened on all fronts—and maybe worst of all, one of the Hunt’s Kindred safari guests begins to play a twisted game of cat and mouse with Cora. Separated and constantly under watch, she and the others must struggle to stay alive, never mind find a way back to each other. When Cassian secretly offers to train Cora to develop her psychic abilities—to prove the worthiness of humanity in a series of tests called the Gauntlet—she’ll have to decide fast if she dares to trust the Kindred who betrayed her, or if she can forge her own way to freedom.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published May 24, 2016
About the author
Megan Shepherd
26 books2,574 followersNew York Times bestselling author Megan Shepherd grew up in her family’s independent bookstore in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She is the author of several young adult and middle grade novels. She now lives and writes on a 125-year-old farm outside Asheville, North Carolina, with her husband, two cats, and an especially scruffy dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
April 3, 2020
Actual rating: 3.5 stars.
I quite liked it.
I enjoyed reading this story, I find the plot very interesting and the characters are well done. I just wish it had more romance. There are some tipbits, but it is just not enough for me. I want more.
I can't wait for the next installment. I am really into this series, for whatever reason, I find the whole idea very enthralling.
I do recommend it.
The Cage (The Cage #1)
The Gauntlet (The Cage #3)
I quite liked it.
I enjoyed reading this story, I find the plot very interesting and the characters are well done. I just wish it had more romance. There are some tipbits, but it is just not enough for me. I want more.
I can't wait for the next installment. I am really into this series, for whatever reason, I find the whole idea very enthralling.
I do recommend it.
The Cage (The Cage #1)
The Gauntlet (The Cage #3)
May 29, 2017
Die Reihe hat mih echt gepackt und das obwohl sie mich inhaltlich gar nicht mal so ganz überzeugen konnte. Aber es ist spannend, toll geschrieben und verläuft z.T. in Richtungen, die ich nicht vorhergesehen habe.
Aaaaber, und das muss ich echt sagen, die Charaktere sind echt anstrengend. Insbesondere Cora nervt mich zu Tode - keiner der mehr oder weniger 6 Hauptcharaktere des Buches konnte mich überzeugen, alle bleiben sehr stereotypisch und/oder unsympathisch, so dass man nicht mitleidet, aber nichtsdestotrotz freue ich mich jetzt schon auf den dritten Band im nächsten Jahr :)
Aaaaber, und das muss ich echt sagen, die Charaktere sind echt anstrengend. Insbesondere Cora nervt mich zu Tode - keiner der mehr oder weniger 6 Hauptcharaktere des Buches konnte mich überzeugen, alle bleiben sehr stereotypisch und/oder unsympathisch, so dass man nicht mitleidet, aber nichtsdestotrotz freue ich mich jetzt schon auf den dritten Band im nächsten Jahr :)
May 15, 2018
You should definitely skip this one if you have a hard time reading about animal cruelty. The setting is safari themed where animals are hunted for sport and constantly injured and then revived to be hunted over and over. Blech. It is painted as distasteful behavior of the alien overlords, but the story would have been better for me without this being a constant theme.
May 16, 2016
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to HarperCollins and Edelweiss.)
This was a YA sci-fi story, about a bunch of teens held captive by aliens.
Cora wasn’t quite so irritating in this book, and she seemed to actually think things through a bit more too, which was a nice change from the first book.
The storyline in this was about Cora and the gang being held captive still, and trying to work on a way to go home again. Cora was trapped in a place called ‘The Hunt’ where she had to sing all day, Leon was crawling through tunnels and stealing stuff, Lucky was looking after animals for The Hunt, and Nok and Rolf were playing house in an effort to keep their unborn child. The pace in this wasn’t too bad, although it did slow down a bit towards the end, but I did enjoy this one more than book 1.
The ending to this had a surprise death! And left the gang in another predicament.
6 out of 10
“Stupid, she thought, to think I could ever escape from them.”
This was a YA sci-fi story, about a bunch of teens held captive by aliens.
Cora wasn’t quite so irritating in this book, and she seemed to actually think things through a bit more too, which was a nice change from the first book.
The storyline in this was about Cora and the gang being held captive still, and trying to work on a way to go home again. Cora was trapped in a place called ‘The Hunt’ where she had to sing all day, Leon was crawling through tunnels and stealing stuff, Lucky was looking after animals for The Hunt, and Nok and Rolf were playing house in an effort to keep their unborn child. The pace in this wasn’t too bad, although it did slow down a bit towards the end, but I did enjoy this one more than book 1.
The ending to this had a surprise death! And left the gang in another predicament.
6 out of 10
March 31, 2016
An Electronic Advanced Reader Copy was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
Oh wow! This was one crazy ride of a book! I really enjoyed this sequel. I was in a major alien mood so I picked this one up even if the pub date was so far off.
The entire time, I actually didn't know who to trust and neither did the characters. So it was quite like I was along for the ride with no idea where it was leading. I didn't trust Cassian for the entire book, because I can't really trust any character until they're proven worthy and to me, he hasn't fulfilled it yet. I still enjoyed reading from all the characters' point of views because you get to see how each of them are handling being part of this new world they're in. And their end goal is the same. To escape and go home back to Earth. I kind of wished more of the characters felt a longing for the people they miss back home. There was very little of that, but maybe it's because they were all just trying to stay alive.
Then there's that crazy ending, yikes! Megan Shepherd sure knows how to write cliff-hangers and this series of hers is no exception. I am so up for the last book! I was hoping for a duo-logy but I guess not! I'm sure all of them will get into plenty of trouble and more drama than before. If you're looking for a fast read, pick this one up! I guarantee you'll be entertained.
RATING 4/5
Oh wow! This was one crazy ride of a book! I really enjoyed this sequel. I was in a major alien mood so I picked this one up even if the pub date was so far off.
The entire time, I actually didn't know who to trust and neither did the characters. So it was quite like I was along for the ride with no idea where it was leading. I didn't trust Cassian for the entire book, because I can't really trust any character until they're proven worthy and to me, he hasn't fulfilled it yet. I still enjoyed reading from all the characters' point of views because you get to see how each of them are handling being part of this new world they're in. And their end goal is the same. To escape and go home back to Earth. I kind of wished more of the characters felt a longing for the people they miss back home. There was very little of that, but maybe it's because they were all just trying to stay alive.
Then there's that crazy ending, yikes! Megan Shepherd sure knows how to write cliff-hangers and this series of hers is no exception. I am so up for the last book! I was hoping for a duo-logy but I guess not! I'm sure all of them will get into plenty of trouble and more drama than before. If you're looking for a fast read, pick this one up! I guarantee you'll be entertained.
RATING 4/5
April 5, 2016
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
The Hunt by Megan Shepherd
Book Two of The Cage series
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: May 24, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
They’ve left the cage—but they’re not free yet.
After their failed escape attempt, Cora, Lucky, and Mali have been demoted to the lowest level of human captives and placed in a safari-themed environment called the Hunt, along with wild animals and other human outcasts. They must serve new Kindred masters—Cora as a lounge singer, Lucky as an animal wrangler, and Mali as a safari guide—and follow new rules or face dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, Nok and Rolf have been moved into an enormous dollhouse, observed around the clock by Kindred scientists interested in Nok’s pregnancy. And Leon, the only one who successfully escaped, has teamed up with villainous Mosca black-market traders.
The former inhabitants of the Cage are threatened on all fronts—and maybe worst of all, one of the Hunt’s Kindred safari guests begins to play a twisted game of cat and mouse with Cora. Separated and constantly under watch, she and the others must struggle to stay alive, never mind find a way back to each other. When Cassian secretly offers to train Cora to develop her psychic abilities—to prove the worthiness of humanity in a series of tests called the Gauntlet—she’ll have to decide fast if she dares to trust the Kindred who betrayed her, or if she can forge her own way to freedom.
What I Liked:
In my opinion, this is Shepherd's best published book. I gave all of her other books three stars each, my absolute least favorite probably being Her Dark Curiosity (gosh that book was a mess). I liked The Cage more than I liked any of her debut trilogy's books, but I didn't connected with the characters. I'm not sure what it is about Shepherd's books that keep me coming back, but in this case, I don't regret it. The Hunt is my favorite Shepherd book, and her best to date.
At the end of The Cage, Cora and the other humans tried to escape from the Cage, but they failed. Now split up, they must survive the horror in front of them. Cora is taken to a menagerie called The Hunt, where she sings. Lucky is placed an animal wrangler at the menagerie. Pregnant Nok and Rolf are taken to a facility where they are watched 24/7 by the Kindred, who want to see how typical humans raise a baby. Leon escaped successfully, and has pledged himself to work for a dangerous Mosca. Cora has been working with Cassian to strengthen her telekinetic abilities, in order to enter a game that might free the humans. Cassian is no longer a foe to worry about - the dangers outside the Cage are much greater than Cora and the other humans imagined.
This book is written in the perspectives of the different humans that we met in book one. Specifically, Cora, Lucky, Leon, Mali, Rolf. Usually I don't like multiple POVs (more than two, meaning), because authors tend to scatter events and interrupt key scenes and it's just too much going on. But I really liked how the author crafted this story, with the POVs she decided to include. All of them are in third-person. Cora is clearly the most important protagonist, but I think each of the other POVs were just as necessary.
I felt like I connected with the characters, in this book! That was one of my complaints abut The Cage. I liked Cora in this book; she is determined and willful and a fighter, and she is willing to do just about anything to get back to Earth. Lucky wasn't my favorite in book one, but I liked him more in this book. I felt like I understood him more.
Leon seems like a changed and better person, in this book. He takes on a rather noble and brave role, and I like the progression of his character development. Rolf and Nok's plot aren't as important as the plot of the other characters (it's pretty much just two plots, with Rolf and Nok being the second separate one), but towards the end, their roles are significant. We get a few chapters in Mali's POV; she is a strange one, but I like her.
Cassian is entirely redeemed, in my opinion. I feel bad for him, in this book. It's clear that he is working extremely hard to give Cora and the humans a chance to become an equal race in the eyes of the Kindred and the other species that treat humans like slaves and animals. Cassian is like a revolutionary, yet Cora and the others struggle to trust him. Cora's case is a little different because she has feelings for him and had felt personally betrayed by him in book one. But no matter - she seems him differently in this book.
One thing I really liked was how focused Cora was on getting back to Earth. She's focused on honing her abilities so that she will be strong enough to compete in the Gauntlet. She isn't letting her emotions get the best of her - the romance in this book is not at the forefront of everything.
But I can't go through this entire review and not talking about the romance. In my review of The Cage, I talked about how a love triangle was forming. The love triangle starts and ends with that book, for the most part. Lucky cares about Cora a lot, but it's clear that Cora does not return his feelings the way he wants her to. Cora has feelings for Cassian, and this scares her, because he is a Kindred, one of a species that she hates. But she can't hate him. Cassian loves Cora, which is pretty rare for the Kindred. I'm rooting for these two! Not in a Team Cassian kind of way, but in a way such that I want them to have a happy ending together, even though they are human and Kindred.
Have I mentioned how cool (and disturbing) I find the science aspect? The Kindred, the Mosca, and other species are all alien species. The Kindred are really advanced, and super smart, and really good-looking, and not entirely human-looking. They have abilities beyond telekinesis and telecommunication, and they are "superior" to humans (not all of them think that way). Cora and the other humans are stuck galaxies away from Earth, with the Kindred and the Mosca and other alien species, in a place where humans are not treated, well, humanely.
Betrayals, epiphanies, deaths, steamy kisses - this book had it all. This didn't seem like on of Shepherd's books, from what I'm used to! I really enjoyed the story. The ending is pretty wide open, though I hesitate to call it a cliffhanger. I am very anxious to read book three! Shepherd sets up the scene perfectly for book three - I can see how things will shape up!
What I Did Not Like:
The beginning of the book is pretty slow - maybe the first fourth of the book. It took me a bit to get into the story, but once I was hooked, I couldn't stop reading.
I feel a little for Lucky, because it was always clear that Cora didn't want him like he wanted her? Their friendship is pretty important in this book, and I think they have a nice relationship, but as friends. Still, I could see how there could have been a love triangle (it's not happening though). I wish Lucky could just fall for someone else! So frustrating.
Would I Recommend It:
I'm not sure how to make this call, because this is my first Shepherd book that I've given more than 3.5 stars (and I've read five of five Shepherd books). If you read The Cage, you should definitely read this sequel - The Hunt is (even) better. But if you haven't read book one, maybe don't start the series. I have a good feeling about this series though!
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded up to 4 stars. I'm impressed with this book! I honestly wasn't expecting to like it as much as I did. It almost didn't feel like a Shepherd book (though it undoubtedly was). I definitely will be reading the conclusion to this series! This series is much better than Shepherd's debut trilogy.
The Hunt by Megan Shepherd
Book Two of The Cage series
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: May 24, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from Edelweiss
Summary (from Goodreads):
They’ve left the cage—but they’re not free yet.
After their failed escape attempt, Cora, Lucky, and Mali have been demoted to the lowest level of human captives and placed in a safari-themed environment called the Hunt, along with wild animals and other human outcasts. They must serve new Kindred masters—Cora as a lounge singer, Lucky as an animal wrangler, and Mali as a safari guide—and follow new rules or face dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, Nok and Rolf have been moved into an enormous dollhouse, observed around the clock by Kindred scientists interested in Nok’s pregnancy. And Leon, the only one who successfully escaped, has teamed up with villainous Mosca black-market traders.
The former inhabitants of the Cage are threatened on all fronts—and maybe worst of all, one of the Hunt’s Kindred safari guests begins to play a twisted game of cat and mouse with Cora. Separated and constantly under watch, she and the others must struggle to stay alive, never mind find a way back to each other. When Cassian secretly offers to train Cora to develop her psychic abilities—to prove the worthiness of humanity in a series of tests called the Gauntlet—she’ll have to decide fast if she dares to trust the Kindred who betrayed her, or if she can forge her own way to freedom.
What I Liked:
In my opinion, this is Shepherd's best published book. I gave all of her other books three stars each, my absolute least favorite probably being Her Dark Curiosity (gosh that book was a mess). I liked The Cage more than I liked any of her debut trilogy's books, but I didn't connected with the characters. I'm not sure what it is about Shepherd's books that keep me coming back, but in this case, I don't regret it. The Hunt is my favorite Shepherd book, and her best to date.
At the end of The Cage, Cora and the other humans tried to escape from the Cage, but they failed. Now split up, they must survive the horror in front of them. Cora is taken to a menagerie called The Hunt, where she sings. Lucky is placed an animal wrangler at the menagerie. Pregnant Nok and Rolf are taken to a facility where they are watched 24/7 by the Kindred, who want to see how typical humans raise a baby. Leon escaped successfully, and has pledged himself to work for a dangerous Mosca. Cora has been working with Cassian to strengthen her telekinetic abilities, in order to enter a game that might free the humans. Cassian is no longer a foe to worry about - the dangers outside the Cage are much greater than Cora and the other humans imagined.
This book is written in the perspectives of the different humans that we met in book one. Specifically, Cora, Lucky, Leon, Mali, Rolf. Usually I don't like multiple POVs (more than two, meaning), because authors tend to scatter events and interrupt key scenes and it's just too much going on. But I really liked how the author crafted this story, with the POVs she decided to include. All of them are in third-person. Cora is clearly the most important protagonist, but I think each of the other POVs were just as necessary.
I felt like I connected with the characters, in this book! That was one of my complaints abut The Cage. I liked Cora in this book; she is determined and willful and a fighter, and she is willing to do just about anything to get back to Earth. Lucky wasn't my favorite in book one, but I liked him more in this book. I felt like I understood him more.
Leon seems like a changed and better person, in this book. He takes on a rather noble and brave role, and I like the progression of his character development. Rolf and Nok's plot aren't as important as the plot of the other characters (it's pretty much just two plots, with Rolf and Nok being the second separate one), but towards the end, their roles are significant. We get a few chapters in Mali's POV; she is a strange one, but I like her.
Cassian is entirely redeemed, in my opinion. I feel bad for him, in this book. It's clear that he is working extremely hard to give Cora and the humans a chance to become an equal race in the eyes of the Kindred and the other species that treat humans like slaves and animals. Cassian is like a revolutionary, yet Cora and the others struggle to trust him. Cora's case is a little different because she has feelings for him and had felt personally betrayed by him in book one. But no matter - she seems him differently in this book.
One thing I really liked was how focused Cora was on getting back to Earth. She's focused on honing her abilities so that she will be strong enough to compete in the Gauntlet. She isn't letting her emotions get the best of her - the romance in this book is not at the forefront of everything.
But I can't go through this entire review and not talking about the romance. In my review of The Cage, I talked about how a love triangle was forming. The love triangle starts and ends with that book, for the most part. Lucky cares about Cora a lot, but it's clear that Cora does not return his feelings the way he wants her to. Cora has feelings for Cassian, and this scares her, because he is a Kindred, one of a species that she hates. But she can't hate him. Cassian loves Cora, which is pretty rare for the Kindred. I'm rooting for these two! Not in a Team Cassian kind of way, but in a way such that I want them to have a happy ending together, even though they are human and Kindred.
Have I mentioned how cool (and disturbing) I find the science aspect? The Kindred, the Mosca, and other species are all alien species. The Kindred are really advanced, and super smart, and really good-looking, and not entirely human-looking. They have abilities beyond telekinesis and telecommunication, and they are "superior" to humans (not all of them think that way). Cora and the other humans are stuck galaxies away from Earth, with the Kindred and the Mosca and other alien species, in a place where humans are not treated, well, humanely.
Betrayals, epiphanies, deaths, steamy kisses - this book had it all. This didn't seem like on of Shepherd's books, from what I'm used to! I really enjoyed the story. The ending is pretty wide open, though I hesitate to call it a cliffhanger. I am very anxious to read book three! Shepherd sets up the scene perfectly for book three - I can see how things will shape up!
What I Did Not Like:
The beginning of the book is pretty slow - maybe the first fourth of the book. It took me a bit to get into the story, but once I was hooked, I couldn't stop reading.
I feel a little for Lucky, because it was always clear that Cora didn't want him like he wanted her? Their friendship is pretty important in this book, and I think they have a nice relationship, but as friends. Still, I could see how there could have been a love triangle (it's not happening though). I wish Lucky could just fall for someone else! So frustrating.
Would I Recommend It:
I'm not sure how to make this call, because this is my first Shepherd book that I've given more than 3.5 stars (and I've read five of five Shepherd books). If you read The Cage, you should definitely read this sequel - The Hunt is (even) better. But if you haven't read book one, maybe don't start the series. I have a good feeling about this series though!
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded up to 4 stars. I'm impressed with this book! I honestly wasn't expecting to like it as much as I did. It almost didn't feel like a Shepherd book (though it undoubtedly was). I definitely will be reading the conclusion to this series! This series is much better than Shepherd's debut trilogy.
August 22, 2017
De Jacht is mij een stuk beter bevallen dan The Cage - Cora is gelukkig niet meer zo onuitstaanbaar 😅 Bovendien vond ik de safari-achtige setting erg origineel en kwam ik graag meer te weten over de verschillende soorten aliens. De combinatie van science fiction en het paranormale werkt uitstekend in dit verhaal.
Mijn complete recensie lees je op Oog op de Toekomst.
Mijn complete recensie lees je op Oog op de Toekomst.
June 15, 2016
Updated: 6/14/16
Rating: 4.5 Stars
That ending . . . I can't. I just can't even.
I'm super impressed by this series. There are so many ways in which this book could have been horrible.
Instead, I think this may be one of my top favorite alien-esque books I've ever read. Definitely one of the best alien series I've ever read, by far.
My biggest complaint with Shepherd's previous books and series was that there were always parts that lagged, in my opinion. I would grow bored. The love interests would either get all my love or all my indifference.
But here . . . Shepherd is able to give me characters who betray, hurt people who trusted them, but they're also redeemable. I loved that. Too often authors write about characters that could do no wrong . . . or are the bad guys, but are secretly cinnamon rolls on the inside.
Here, Cassian has betrayed Cora big time. And now we get to see the aftermath of that. Personally, had I been Cora, I would have slugged him the next time I saw him.
Instead, Cora plots. She'll play along with Cassian's plan to win the Gauntlet, let him hone her powers to prove humanity's worth. But she'll do it her way.
I loved that. I loved that while Cora is given two bad options repeatedly, she decides to make a third option for herself.
Cassian completely redeems himself in my eyes. He betrayed her before, plain and simple, but he regrets it now, and understands he has to earn Cora's trust back.
I loved that Cora was never afraid to let Cassian have it. She'll call him on his BS at all times, call out on his double-standards, on his betrayal. She understands he's risking everything to help humanity, but Cora's risking her life too. She's not about to let him push her around, tell her what to do and when.
She'll let him help her, will rely on him, but she'll keep her own secrets tucked away too.
Cora doesn't trust easily. She's not one to throw herself under the bus for everyone around her. She doesn't have a martyr complex. Showing the Kindred that humans aren't animals is a priority, yes, but her first priority is saving her friends, then herself. She won't risk everything for the humans around her, because she understands that she can't save everyone.
That doesn't mean she won't still try to win the Gauntlet, though. Hell, she'll even cheat it to win . . .
Nothing says humanity like cheating a competition to show the Kindred how evolved we are, huh?
I thoroughly enjoyed the romance aspect of this. It's subtle. I don't think I can really classify this as a love triangle, because it always seemed like Lucky was never going to really have a chance with Cora, and both were okay with that. Yeah, some kissing happened last book, but they were also thrown together in a cage and told they were each other's perfect matches and, also, they need to reproduce together.
Obviously, I think anyone would loose their minds a little.
I loved their friendship. It's not awkward because of the kisses before. They both made mistakes, and they let it go.
I also loved that while there are a few times Cassian reaches out to Cora, tries to get her to reciprocate his feelings, she can't completely let go of his betrayal. Can't say I blame her. Had it been me, I don't know if I'd ever be able to fully trust him again.
And Cora's still attracted to him, sure. And she won't be cruel to Cassian about it, but his betrayal is something that's going to take time to get over.
I was pretty over his betrayal by the end of the book, though, let me tell you.
My only issue are these gosh darn endings Shepherd seems so happy to give us. My, gosh. Can it be next year yet, please?
____________________________________________________________
Oh . . . that ending to The Cage . . .
I . . . I need this. Badly.
Find me here with more YA reviews: https://obsessivereads.wordpress.com/
Rating: 4.5 Stars
That ending . . . I can't. I just can't even.
I'm super impressed by this series. There are so many ways in which this book could have been horrible.
Instead, I think this may be one of my top favorite alien-esque books I've ever read. Definitely one of the best alien series I've ever read, by far.
My biggest complaint with Shepherd's previous books and series was that there were always parts that lagged, in my opinion. I would grow bored. The love interests would either get all my love or all my indifference.
But here . . . Shepherd is able to give me characters who betray, hurt people who trusted them, but they're also redeemable. I loved that. Too often authors write about characters that could do no wrong . . . or are the bad guys, but are secretly cinnamon rolls on the inside.
Here, Cassian has betrayed Cora big time. And now we get to see the aftermath of that. Personally, had I been Cora, I would have slugged him the next time I saw him.
Instead, Cora plots. She'll play along with Cassian's plan to win the Gauntlet, let him hone her powers to prove humanity's worth. But she'll do it her way.
I loved that. I loved that while Cora is given two bad options repeatedly, she decides to make a third option for herself.
Cassian completely redeems himself in my eyes. He betrayed her before, plain and simple, but he regrets it now, and understands he has to earn Cora's trust back.
I loved that Cora was never afraid to let Cassian have it. She'll call him on his BS at all times, call out on his double-standards, on his betrayal. She understands he's risking everything to help humanity, but Cora's risking her life too. She's not about to let him push her around, tell her what to do and when.
She'll let him help her, will rely on him, but she'll keep her own secrets tucked away too.
Cora doesn't trust easily. She's not one to throw herself under the bus for everyone around her. She doesn't have a martyr complex. Showing the Kindred that humans aren't animals is a priority, yes, but her first priority is saving her friends, then herself. She won't risk everything for the humans around her, because she understands that she can't save everyone.
That doesn't mean she won't still try to win the Gauntlet, though. Hell, she'll even cheat it to win . . .
Nothing says humanity like cheating a competition to show the Kindred how evolved we are, huh?
I thoroughly enjoyed the romance aspect of this. It's subtle. I don't think I can really classify this as a love triangle, because it always seemed like Lucky was never going to really have a chance with Cora, and both were okay with that. Yeah, some kissing happened last book, but they were also thrown together in a cage and told they were each other's perfect matches and, also, they need to reproduce together.
Obviously, I think anyone would loose their minds a little.
I loved their friendship. It's not awkward because of the kisses before. They both made mistakes, and they let it go.
I also loved that while there are a few times Cassian reaches out to Cora, tries to get her to reciprocate his feelings, she can't completely let go of his betrayal. Can't say I blame her. Had it been me, I don't know if I'd ever be able to fully trust him again.
And Cora's still attracted to him, sure. And she won't be cruel to Cassian about it, but his betrayal is something that's going to take time to get over.
I was pretty over his betrayal by the end of the book, though, let me tell you.
My only issue are these gosh darn endings Shepherd seems so happy to give us. My, gosh. Can it be next year yet, please?
____________________________________________________________
Oh . . . that ending to The Cage . . .
I . . . I need this. Badly.
Find me here with more YA reviews: https://obsessivereads.wordpress.com/
March 31, 2021
I recently read and reviewed the first book in this series, The Cage. This series has an excellent premise and some really likeable characters. I am excited to tell you about The Hunt, but know there may be spoilers in here for the first book, The Cage.
The Hunt picks right up where The Cage left off. If you have read The Cage, you know that they attempted escape and were caught. Things go from bad to worse when they are separated and most are placed in a different environment called The Hunt. The Hunt is a safari type place where animals are hunted daily and then healed so they can be hunted another day. The humans in this scenario tend to the animals and help out with the hunt. It was heartbreaking to see what these animals went through on a daily basis, but what the humans endure to entertain the kindred is almost as bad. Rolf and Nik are in a completely different place trying to stay pregnant and make a safe place for their baby. They are being monitored and studied. Their situation is terrifying. Meanwhile, Leon is working for another group of aliens and this puts him in a really good, albeit scary, place.
All of these scenarios are going on and all these kids want is to go home. I will say they get a little closer to actually accomplishing that, like millimeters closer. Leon is a big help for them, but, you know, Leon has issues. His issues are pretty much resolved but with his new job he has a lot more to worry about now.
I loved to see how Rolf and Nix are working things out, together, They were sort of an item in book one, but this book we see them solidify their union. Nix is really making a choice to make things work with Rolf. Rolf is instrumental in every plan they make as his brain is just brilliant. Rolf and Cora have this interaction towards the end of this book and I loved seeing how genius Rolf is. Cora gets even more confused with what to do about her feeling for Cassius. I kinda wanted them together, but man nothing is easy for her. Cora and Lucky have chemistry too so there is a love triangle brewing.
Mali is like a glorified extra in this book. I think she has a lot more to offer the group but her awkwardness keeps her from speaking out. She was really important for Cora because of a certain someone, but there isn’t really much I can say without spoilers. Mali does respond a bit to Leon in this story. That was cute to see.
I did have some issues with the believably of this story. Mostly I didn’t understand how the animals and humans interacted. Like, I have questions about sleeping arrangements. Also, Cora does some things in this story that gave me so much angst. Why couldn’t thing just happen faster? Gah!
In case you didn’t guess, I really did enjoy this follow up. I am so excited to see where the author takes these characters in the next book.
June 5, 2017
4.5/5 sterren! I L.O.V.E. Deze serie!
May 29, 2016
"Humanity's freedom resting on her shoulders alone.
What if she failed?
And then again, what if she succeeded?"
The Hunt by Megan Shepherd was an absolute whirlwind of emotion! Personally, I've been in a bit of reading slump lately, but I flew through this book in a matter of days.
Cora, Lucky, and Mali have swapped the Cage for a new prison-The Hunt menagerie. I loved to hate this place. Low lights to hide the grime, a horrifying stimulated safari hunt, and of course the creepy backstage area that I could practically smell. Honestly, The Hunt makes me want to go vegan. We met a handful of new cast members who were mildly interesting. I was very intrigued by Dane, the most powerful of the powerless, and he did not disappoint. Together, the cast and the Kindred guests created an ominous atmosphere that had me flipping through the pages all night.
Poor Nok and Rolf find themselves in a life-sized dollhouse. Can you say creepy? It felt very Nuke Town. Their observer, Serassi, gave me the heebie jeebies.
Leon, the poor guy, is into some shady business with Bonebreak. I think the name "Bonebreak" is telling in itself. I felt very attached to Leon in this book, although I can't remember caring much about him in The Cage.
All in all, an excellent book. I adored the sizzle between Cassian and Cora! . My only issue is how repetitive it seemed at times. The ending killed me! I'm officially crowning Megan Shepherd as the Queen of Cliffhangers. .
Ultimately, if you enjoyed The Cage, then you will rip through The Hunt. If you're sitting on the edge of "well I liked it, but I sort of forgot the characters and I already have a big TBR so should I really?" then yes, you should really.
What if she failed?
And then again, what if she succeeded?"
The Hunt by Megan Shepherd was an absolute whirlwind of emotion! Personally, I've been in a bit of reading slump lately, but I flew through this book in a matter of days.
Cora, Lucky, and Mali have swapped the Cage for a new prison-The Hunt menagerie. I loved to hate this place. Low lights to hide the grime, a horrifying stimulated safari hunt, and of course the creepy backstage area that I could practically smell. Honestly, The Hunt makes me want to go vegan. We met a handful of new cast members who were mildly interesting. I was very intrigued by Dane, the most powerful of the powerless, and he did not disappoint. Together, the cast and the Kindred guests created an ominous atmosphere that had me flipping through the pages all night.
Poor Nok and Rolf find themselves in a life-sized dollhouse. Can you say creepy? It felt very Nuke Town. Their observer, Serassi, gave me the heebie jeebies.
Leon, the poor guy, is into some shady business with Bonebreak. I think the name "Bonebreak" is telling in itself. I felt very attached to Leon in this book, although I can't remember caring much about him in The Cage.
All in all, an excellent book. I adored the sizzle between Cassian and Cora! . My only issue is how repetitive it seemed at times. The ending killed me! I'm officially crowning Megan Shepherd as the Queen of Cliffhangers. .
Ultimately, if you enjoyed The Cage, then you will rip through The Hunt. If you're sitting on the edge of "well I liked it, but I sort of forgot the characters and I already have a big TBR so should I really?" then yes, you should really.
August 1, 2016
Read more of my reviews at Cornerfolds.com!
Last year I listened to the audiobook of The Cage, the first book in this series, and was disappointed that it didn't live up to my high expectations. I didn't plan to continue this story, but when The Hunt was released, I was in the mood for some dystopian fiction and I went for it. I have come out on the other side believing that one of the reasons I didn't like The Cage was the audio. I think the voice actors irritated me to the point that the book was even less enjoyable than it might have been, which is unfortunate. I went into The Hunt with no expectations and decided to read a physical copy for comparison.
This book picks up immediately after the first left off, with Cora and company having been trapped by the Kindred after their (ridiculous) failed escape. Cora, Lucky, Nok, Rolf, Mali, and Leon have now failed out of their enclosure and are being placed in the menageries as a result. Obviously, none of them can abide their new settings and have to come up with a new plan to get away from the Kindred. I hoped that this time the plan would be a little less, well, stupid.
Thankfully, each of the characters were somewhat less irritating in book two of this series, which I am attributing to not listening to the same actors reading the parts this time. Still, I didn't find myself loving any of them... Leon wasn't such a jerk this time, so I really appreciated that. Mali was still weird and I never felt truly connected to her. Lucky was just kind of there and I didn't feel anything for him, really. I didn't hate Nok and Rolf and felt kind of sympathetic for them. Cassian wasn't terrible to read about and I did feel like I understood his motivations a bit more. Overall though, I just didn't care about any of them. Even when something terrible happened near the end, I just kind of said, "Oh, okay," and kept going.
And then there's Cora. Cora who sent me on a rant in my last review. Cora still made lots of decisions that made little sense and was still really wishy washy about which guy she was actually in love with. And then Cora made the most idiotic move ever in the history of idiotic moves, which is saying something considering her decision making skills in The Cage. Cora has no regard for other people and basically just does what she wants, consequences be damned.
Like in The Cage, the strong point of this book is its world. I loved the descriptions given for the different menageries and actually wish there had been more of them. The way Megan Shepherd has written this Kindred world is extremely unique and she has a way of making me feel like I could step into the book and see exactly what she was describing.
The plot itself, unfortunately, is almost as problematic as that of the first book. The Gauntlet was not explained very well, in my opinion, and Cora's "abilities" manifested way too sporadically and conveniently to be believable. She always managed to suddenly learn something new just in the nick of time in order to get herself out of a sticky situation. Once, maybe, but when it started happening repeatedly it just got ridiculous. In fact, almost everything in this book just kind of happened conveniently at precisely the right time. (Deus ex machina, anyone?)
Overall, I disliked The Hunt slightly less than the first book, but I still can't say I enjoyed it. The characters are severely lacking and most of the plot is just a little too convenient for me to get into. The world is really gorgeous and the ending did leave me wanting to know what happens next, so I'll probably read the next book just because I'm 2/3 of the way in at this point, but I'm really not sure I would recommend this series to anyone else.
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
Last year I listened to the audiobook of The Cage, the first book in this series, and was disappointed that it didn't live up to my high expectations. I didn't plan to continue this story, but when The Hunt was released, I was in the mood for some dystopian fiction and I went for it. I have come out on the other side believing that one of the reasons I didn't like The Cage was the audio. I think the voice actors irritated me to the point that the book was even less enjoyable than it might have been, which is unfortunate. I went into The Hunt with no expectations and decided to read a physical copy for comparison.
This book picks up immediately after the first left off, with Cora and company having been trapped by the Kindred after their (ridiculous) failed escape. Cora, Lucky, Nok, Rolf, Mali, and Leon have now failed out of their enclosure and are being placed in the menageries as a result. Obviously, none of them can abide their new settings and have to come up with a new plan to get away from the Kindred. I hoped that this time the plan would be a little less, well, stupid.
Thankfully, each of the characters were somewhat less irritating in book two of this series, which I am attributing to not listening to the same actors reading the parts this time. Still, I didn't find myself loving any of them... Leon wasn't such a jerk this time, so I really appreciated that. Mali was still weird and I never felt truly connected to her. Lucky was just kind of there and I didn't feel anything for him, really. I didn't hate Nok and Rolf and felt kind of sympathetic for them. Cassian wasn't terrible to read about and I did feel like I understood his motivations a bit more. Overall though, I just didn't care about any of them. Even when something terrible happened near the end, I just kind of said, "Oh, okay," and kept going.
And then there's Cora. Cora who sent me on a rant in my last review. Cora still made lots of decisions that made little sense and was still really wishy washy about which guy she was actually in love with. And then Cora made the most idiotic move ever in the history of idiotic moves, which is saying something considering her decision making skills in The Cage. Cora has no regard for other people and basically just does what she wants, consequences be damned.
Like in The Cage, the strong point of this book is its world. I loved the descriptions given for the different menageries and actually wish there had been more of them. The way Megan Shepherd has written this Kindred world is extremely unique and she has a way of making me feel like I could step into the book and see exactly what she was describing.
The plot itself, unfortunately, is almost as problematic as that of the first book. The Gauntlet was not explained very well, in my opinion, and Cora's "abilities" manifested way too sporadically and conveniently to be believable. She always managed to suddenly learn something new just in the nick of time in order to get herself out of a sticky situation. Once, maybe, but when it started happening repeatedly it just got ridiculous. In fact, almost everything in this book just kind of happened conveniently at precisely the right time. (Deus ex machina, anyone?)
Overall, I disliked The Hunt slightly less than the first book, but I still can't say I enjoyed it. The characters are severely lacking and most of the plot is just a little too convenient for me to get into. The world is really gorgeous and the ending did leave me wanting to know what happens next, so I'll probably read the next book just because I'm 2/3 of the way in at this point, but I'm really not sure I would recommend this series to anyone else.
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
March 3, 2016
2.5 stars.
Much like the first book in this series, the suspense was there, but the plot and characters were nothing to call home about.
Cora is just as insufferable and boring as she was in the first book. And stupid. She has been moved to a new menagerie called The Hunt, where Kindred go on safari and "kill" animals. But this is just a cover, what she's really supposed to be doing is training for the Gauntlet, a test that if she passes would make humans one of the intelligent species.
Cora raised an eyebrow at the word Cassian had just spoken. He had mentioned it before - a test that separated the intelligent species from the lesser ones - but that was the extent of her knowledge. "Why does that sound suspiciously like something that's going to get me killed?"
Well, probably because it's called The Gauntlet, Cora. Her obsession with her hair also irked me. .
I really recognized my apathy toward the characters at the end of the book, when something terrible happens to one of them. I didn't care. I felt nothing about what had happened, not even disbelief. Just a kind of detachment to the entire story and the characters.
The ending was so anticlimactic. You think something great is finally going to happen, but then it just cuts off right before you can want more. Now, I don't even want to read the third book because I just don't care what happens (plus, I wouldn't have bought this book anyway - it's an ARC).
All that being said, Megan Shepherd writes beautifully. I did feel a lot of suspense just based on her writing rather than what was actually happening in the book. Unfortunately, much like the first one, this one fell flat for me.
Advanced review copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. All quotations subject to change in the final version
Much like the first book in this series, the suspense was there, but the plot and characters were nothing to call home about.
Cora is just as insufferable and boring as she was in the first book. And stupid. She has been moved to a new menagerie called The Hunt, where Kindred go on safari and "kill" animals. But this is just a cover, what she's really supposed to be doing is training for the Gauntlet, a test that if she passes would make humans one of the intelligent species.
Cora raised an eyebrow at the word Cassian had just spoken. He had mentioned it before - a test that separated the intelligent species from the lesser ones - but that was the extent of her knowledge. "Why does that sound suspiciously like something that's going to get me killed?"
Well, probably because it's called The Gauntlet, Cora. Her obsession with her hair also irked me. .
I really recognized my apathy toward the characters at the end of the book, when something terrible happens to one of them. I didn't care. I felt nothing about what had happened, not even disbelief. Just a kind of detachment to the entire story and the characters.
The ending was so anticlimactic. You think something great is finally going to happen, but then it just cuts off right before you can want more. Now, I don't even want to read the third book because I just don't care what happens (plus, I wouldn't have bought this book anyway - it's an ARC).
All that being said, Megan Shepherd writes beautifully. I did feel a lot of suspense just based on her writing rather than what was actually happening in the book. Unfortunately, much like the first one, this one fell flat for me.
Advanced review copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. All quotations subject to change in the final version
July 18, 2017
GANZE REZENSION: http://annasalvatoresbuchblog.blogspo...
MEINUNG
Den letzten Band fand ich ja genial, daher hatte ich natürlich hohe Ansprüche an die Fortsetzung. Und diese wurden definitiv erfüllt!
Der Schreibstil liest sich wieder sehr flüssig, so dass ich das Buch relativ schnell las. Es ist wieder aus verschiedenen Perspektiven geschrieben und beleuchtet daher viele Seiten der Geschichte, und bringt Abwechslung.
Verschiedene Charakteren, wie z.B. Cora, Leon, Rolf und Cassian, machen eine große Charakterentwicklung durch. Auch Nok wird zugänglicher, und neue Charaktere, auch anderer Art, bereichern die Story.
Die Handlung an sich ist wieder sehr spannend, es gibt eine Menge Action, aber auch die eigentliche Storyline wurde perfekt weitergeführt. Obwohl der rote Faden sich klar zieht, bringt die Autorin auch neuartige Aspekte in die Geschichte ein, z.B. einen gewissen Roshi an sowie andere Kindred, die überraschen.
Auch das Weltraum Setting bzw das Raumschiff wurde ausgezeichnet genutzt. So lernt man zum anderen das Raumschiff besser kennen, aber zum anderen ist man in diesem Band auch tatsächlich einmal im Weltraum.
Das Ende verspricht einen packenden Abschluss dieser genialen Reihe und ich kann ihn kaum erwarten.
FAZIT
Diese Reihe verdient wirklich das Wort alientastisch! Ich bin wieder begeistert und kann sie nur empfehlen, wenn man auf neuartige Ideen im Young Adult Bereich steht.
- Fast volle Punktzahl: 4,5 von 5 Feenfaltern -
Vielen Dank an den Heyne fliegt Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!
© Anna Salvatore's Bücherreich
MEINUNG
Den letzten Band fand ich ja genial, daher hatte ich natürlich hohe Ansprüche an die Fortsetzung. Und diese wurden definitiv erfüllt!
Der Schreibstil liest sich wieder sehr flüssig, so dass ich das Buch relativ schnell las. Es ist wieder aus verschiedenen Perspektiven geschrieben und beleuchtet daher viele Seiten der Geschichte, und bringt Abwechslung.
Verschiedene Charakteren, wie z.B. Cora, Leon, Rolf und Cassian, machen eine große Charakterentwicklung durch. Auch Nok wird zugänglicher, und neue Charaktere, auch anderer Art, bereichern die Story.
Die Handlung an sich ist wieder sehr spannend, es gibt eine Menge Action, aber auch die eigentliche Storyline wurde perfekt weitergeführt. Obwohl der rote Faden sich klar zieht, bringt die Autorin auch neuartige Aspekte in die Geschichte ein, z.B. einen gewissen Roshi an sowie andere Kindred, die überraschen.
Auch das Weltraum Setting bzw das Raumschiff wurde ausgezeichnet genutzt. So lernt man zum anderen das Raumschiff besser kennen, aber zum anderen ist man in diesem Band auch tatsächlich einmal im Weltraum.
Das Ende verspricht einen packenden Abschluss dieser genialen Reihe und ich kann ihn kaum erwarten.
FAZIT
Diese Reihe verdient wirklich das Wort alientastisch! Ich bin wieder begeistert und kann sie nur empfehlen, wenn man auf neuartige Ideen im Young Adult Bereich steht.
- Fast volle Punktzahl: 4,5 von 5 Feenfaltern -
Vielen Dank an den Heyne fliegt Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!
© Anna Salvatore's Bücherreich
July 10, 2016
Road to the Gauntlet- 3.5 stars...
The Hunt is the second book in The Cage series by Megan Shepherd. After Cora and her friends failed escape attempt, they have all been placed in new enclosures in the menagerie that are more demeaning and restrictive. They are forced to live, work and sleep in terrible conditions and are treated like the animals living there. According to their old Kindred leader, Cassian, their only chance of getting out of there and ensuring that the human race is treated as an intelligent species is for Cora to participate in and win the Gauntlet...
I appreciate the originality in this series and I really like the alternate world it's set in but the plot fell short for me in this book. I think for me it suffered from Second Book Syndrome. There is a lot going on but nothing really happens- just very anti-climatic. Then of course we're left with a huge cliffhanger at the end insinuating all of the major plot points will happen in the final book. Shepherd usually delivers a pretty good story though so I'm hoping the next book will pack a punch and make up for what this one lacked.
The Hunt is the second book in The Cage series by Megan Shepherd. After Cora and her friends failed escape attempt, they have all been placed in new enclosures in the menagerie that are more demeaning and restrictive. They are forced to live, work and sleep in terrible conditions and are treated like the animals living there. According to their old Kindred leader, Cassian, their only chance of getting out of there and ensuring that the human race is treated as an intelligent species is for Cora to participate in and win the Gauntlet...
I appreciate the originality in this series and I really like the alternate world it's set in but the plot fell short for me in this book. I think for me it suffered from Second Book Syndrome. There is a lot going on but nothing really happens- just very anti-climatic. Then of course we're left with a huge cliffhanger at the end insinuating all of the major plot points will happen in the final book. Shepherd usually delivers a pretty good story though so I'm hoping the next book will pack a punch and make up for what this one lacked.
June 15, 2017
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult, Science Fiction
*Rating* 3-3.5
*MY Thoughts*
The Hunt is the second installment in author Megan Shepherd's The Cage Trilogy. The story picks up with Cora Mason in a cage after she and the others failed in their attempt to get off the station. Cora has been learned that humans were taken from Earth for their own good. The Kindred actually believe they are humanities saviors. They've been told that Earth no longer exists, and that humans like Cora are the key to saving her race, or raising them to the same level as (4) other races.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Published* May 24th 2016 by Balzer + Bray
*Genre* Young Adult, Science Fiction
*Rating* 3-3.5
*MY Thoughts*
The Hunt is the second installment in author Megan Shepherd's The Cage Trilogy. The story picks up with Cora Mason in a cage after she and the others failed in their attempt to get off the station. Cora has been learned that humans were taken from Earth for their own good. The Kindred actually believe they are humanities saviors. They've been told that Earth no longer exists, and that humans like Cora are the key to saving her race, or raising them to the same level as (4) other races.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Published* May 24th 2016 by Balzer + Bray
March 25, 2016
Wow! I didn't think this series could get better but it did! There's no middle book syndrome here this was actually better than book 1 IMO. Also love Cassian even more!!!! Can't wait for book 3!!
March 29, 2019
Wow, dit boek was echt veel beter dan ik had kunnen hopen! Dus als je na deel 1 zoiets had van, bwa, ik zeg: doen! Duurde paar hoofdstukken eer ik er weer in zat, maar The Hunt is echt superspannend en origineel. Blij dat ik ben verdergegaan met deze trilogie ^^
May 20, 2016
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Remember that time last year when I loved The Cage? Ah, me too. Good times, good times. Anyway, since I was such a fan, The Hunt went onto my Goodreads "Must-Have-Grabby-Hands" list before it even had a title. Needless to say, I was super excited about it. So did it live up to my exceedingly high expectations? (Well, of course, based on the title of this post, you know it did. But let's pretend you hadn't gathered that already, okay?) And I will try to keep this as spoiler-free for both books as possible, promise!
Is there any better feeling than a sequel that you've been dying for surpassing its predecessor in fabulousness? I think not. And that is the situation at hand, basically. How, you ask, did the author accomplish this feat? I shall tell you!
The stakes were higher. So Cora and the gang really didn't know what they were dealing with, not completely, during much of The Cage. But in The Hunt, they're much more aware of the severity of their situation, and that brings both the action and their own personal turmoil to another level. Adding to this strife is the fact that they (and in turn, the reader) has basically no idea who the "good guys"- if they even exist- are. So not only is a lot of the world an unknown, the people (aliens may be a better term here?) and their motives are too.
This book is nice and twisty! When things happened, I rarely saw them coming- at all. There were parts of the story where my jaw totally dropped, and I love that! And yes, this does end on a nice big old cliffhanger, so be prepared! But it also makes me want the third book so incredibly badly, so I suppose that's a job well done too! (Plus, I don't really mind a cliffhanger as long as I know another book will be coming someday!)
The characters really grow, especially Cora. Cora, as the main character, was forced to make a lot of decisions that would impact herself and everyone else. It wasn't easy for her, nor should it have been, and I liked that it was realistically portrayed. The captives have definitely grown to care about each other, and I think they all have finally realized how dire their situation really is, which makes for a lot of character development all around.
I still ship my ship, a lot. No spoilers, I promise, just... I ship certain people, and I am excited to see what happens next in terms of this romantic situation. And it's definitely a slow-moving kind of thing, which I think a lot of you enjoy ;)
The world building becomes bigger and more vivid. Granted, in The Cage, there wasn't a ton of opportunity for world building because they were in, you know, a cage. So now, there is a lot more that we're shown in this world, and it definitely felt vividly painted. There are a few settings that I was horrified by, mostly because I felt like I could picture them so, so well.
Was there anything I didn't like? Hmm. No. Not really. It did take me a few chapters to get back into the world and characters, but really that is a super minor thing, and had I reread The Cage (like I hope to do when Book 3 comes out!) that would have been no issue at all.
Bottom Line: Seriously, one of the strongest second-in-series books I have ever read. And with such a unique world and diverse characters (in every sense of the word, really), this series is absolutely a win for me so far!
Remember that time last year when I loved The Cage? Ah, me too. Good times, good times. Anyway, since I was such a fan, The Hunt went onto my Goodreads "Must-Have-Grabby-Hands" list before it even had a title. Needless to say, I was super excited about it. So did it live up to my exceedingly high expectations? (Well, of course, based on the title of this post, you know it did. But let's pretend you hadn't gathered that already, okay?) And I will try to keep this as spoiler-free for both books as possible, promise!
Is there any better feeling than a sequel that you've been dying for surpassing its predecessor in fabulousness? I think not. And that is the situation at hand, basically. How, you ask, did the author accomplish this feat? I shall tell you!
The stakes were higher. So Cora and the gang really didn't know what they were dealing with, not completely, during much of The Cage. But in The Hunt, they're much more aware of the severity of their situation, and that brings both the action and their own personal turmoil to another level. Adding to this strife is the fact that they (and in turn, the reader) has basically no idea who the "good guys"- if they even exist- are. So not only is a lot of the world an unknown, the people (aliens may be a better term here?) and their motives are too.
This book is nice and twisty! When things happened, I rarely saw them coming- at all. There were parts of the story where my jaw totally dropped, and I love that! And yes, this does end on a nice big old cliffhanger, so be prepared! But it also makes me want the third book so incredibly badly, so I suppose that's a job well done too! (Plus, I don't really mind a cliffhanger as long as I know another book will be coming someday!)
The characters really grow, especially Cora. Cora, as the main character, was forced to make a lot of decisions that would impact herself and everyone else. It wasn't easy for her, nor should it have been, and I liked that it was realistically portrayed. The captives have definitely grown to care about each other, and I think they all have finally realized how dire their situation really is, which makes for a lot of character development all around.
I still ship my ship, a lot. No spoilers, I promise, just... I ship certain people, and I am excited to see what happens next in terms of this romantic situation. And it's definitely a slow-moving kind of thing, which I think a lot of you enjoy ;)
The world building becomes bigger and more vivid. Granted, in The Cage, there wasn't a ton of opportunity for world building because they were in, you know, a cage. So now, there is a lot more that we're shown in this world, and it definitely felt vividly painted. There are a few settings that I was horrified by, mostly because I felt like I could picture them so, so well.
Was there anything I didn't like? Hmm. No. Not really. It did take me a few chapters to get back into the world and characters, but really that is a super minor thing, and had I reread The Cage (like I hope to do when Book 3 comes out!) that would have been no issue at all.
Bottom Line: Seriously, one of the strongest second-in-series books I have ever read. And with such a unique world and diverse characters (in every sense of the word, really), this series is absolutely a win for me so far!
January 7, 2021
The Hunt takes place after Cora and her group’s failed escape attempt at the end of the last book. Along with Lucky and Mali, Cora has been placed in a safari-themed enclosure called The Hunt, where Cassian wants her to stay whilst she practices for The Gauntlet, a test that will help humans became the fifth intelligent species.
It’s revealed that all species have to take part in The Gaunlet and if they pass, they get to become an intelligent species. And Cassian reveals that this is why he betrayed Cora, because he wanted to break her so she could harness her own psychic abilities and thus take part in the test and become another intelligent species. But they have to do it secretly, because some of the other alien species do not want the humans to become an intelligent species. The plot of this sequel was definitely not as gripping as the first one, and it took me a little bit before I was fully invested in the story again but I could not have guessed the direction that the plot was going to go in, that this was all leading up to Cora taking The Gauntlet test. Also, it was a major shock when Lucky was killed off. Like it felt like it came out of nowhere and I did not think that the author would have killed him off.
Cora and Cassian. I really enjoyed the romance that developed between these two in The Cage, and I was looking forward to seeing how their relationship developed further in this instalment, because Cassian had betrayed Cora. And I was not disappointed. What I love about Cora as a main character is that she doesn't rush to forgive Cassian, or even understand him. She’s hurt by his betrayal, and in order to hurt him, she pretends to work alongside him, when really she is working against him. And I really liked that she was thinking for herself, and that it took her a while to forgive Cassian and then admit her feelings for him. But I really like the way the romantic aspect progressed because after having read The Caretaker, I understood why Cassian did what he did, and I absolutely loved the tense scenes between these two, especially when you realise that Cassian is fully in love with Cora.
Overall, although The Hunt was not as strong as The Cage in terms of its plot, I still enjoyed the instalment and am looking forward to seeing how this series is concluded.
“Stupid, she thought, to think I could ever escape from them. But not stupid, she thought with resolve, to believe we’re any less than them.”
It’s revealed that all species have to take part in The Gaunlet and if they pass, they get to become an intelligent species. And Cassian reveals that this is why he betrayed Cora, because he wanted to break her so she could harness her own psychic abilities and thus take part in the test and become another intelligent species. But they have to do it secretly, because some of the other alien species do not want the humans to become an intelligent species. The plot of this sequel was definitely not as gripping as the first one, and it took me a little bit before I was fully invested in the story again but I could not have guessed the direction that the plot was going to go in, that this was all leading up to Cora taking The Gauntlet test. Also, it was a major shock when Lucky was killed off. Like it felt like it came out of nowhere and I did not think that the author would have killed him off.
“You accuse me of wanting to feel lesser emotions. You’re right. Is it such a crime to want to feel? I do not understand why we must always be at odds. Why we cannot be partners in proving humanity’s intelligence. Why that partnership cannot cross into what I feel in my heart whenever I think of you. Why you cannot love me, and why you feel such contempt for the fact that I love you.”
Cora and Cassian. I really enjoyed the romance that developed between these two in The Cage, and I was looking forward to seeing how their relationship developed further in this instalment, because Cassian had betrayed Cora. And I was not disappointed. What I love about Cora as a main character is that she doesn't rush to forgive Cassian, or even understand him. She’s hurt by his betrayal, and in order to hurt him, she pretends to work alongside him, when really she is working against him. And I really liked that she was thinking for herself, and that it took her a while to forgive Cassian and then admit her feelings for him. But I really like the way the romantic aspect progressed because after having read The Caretaker, I understood why Cassian did what he did, and I absolutely loved the tense scenes between these two, especially when you realise that Cassian is fully in love with Cora.
“You’re right—we have everything on Earth. Family. Friends. But there’s one thing missing there.”
“What’s that?”
“He paused. “Something worth fighting for.”
Overall, although The Hunt was not as strong as The Cage in terms of its plot, I still enjoyed the instalment and am looking forward to seeing how this series is concluded.
July 20, 2016
SPOILERS
I knew I shouldn't have worried.
After reading A Cold Legacy (not the best book), the finale of the The Madman Daughter's Trilogy last year, I thought I'd overestimated Shepard's storytelling skills and maybe perhaps I had overrated The Cage. But nope, reading The Hunt has displaced my fears and reminded me how entertaining this series is.
The pace, as before, is somewhat slow with multiple POVs who are much dearer to me here than previously. I thought their personalities shone more brightly than before, and beneath the false bravado and the struggle to remain safe and alive, there was a vulnerability and, in times of need, a strong backbone and a cause, that all characters shared.
Some surprising twists, and I'm mostly okay with those regarding Lucky. A little part of me feels that he was unfairly taken early out of the game, especially when he fully realized his calling and willing to work for it.
I liked Leon's mentioning the true reason for their capture, and what each person represented. Lucky's morality had been mentioned at several times throughout the book, and the loss of this moral compass can potentially have significant consequences. Because despite Cora being the chosen one, Lucky was her equal and matched for her, and additionally had a sort of personality yin and yang with her. So I feel that in the next book, not only Lucky's loss, but the power hole and the imbalance it might create between Cora and the others will be something to overcome.
But then there's always Cassian.
I knew I shouldn't have worried.
After reading A Cold Legacy (not the best book), the finale of the The Madman Daughter's Trilogy last year, I thought I'd overestimated Shepard's storytelling skills and maybe perhaps I had overrated The Cage. But nope, reading The Hunt has displaced my fears and reminded me how entertaining this series is.
The pace, as before, is somewhat slow with multiple POVs who are much dearer to me here than previously. I thought their personalities shone more brightly than before, and beneath the false bravado and the struggle to remain safe and alive, there was a vulnerability and, in times of need, a strong backbone and a cause, that all characters shared.
Some surprising twists, and I'm mostly okay with those regarding Lucky. A little part of me feels that he was unfairly taken early out of the game, especially when he fully realized his calling and willing to work for it.
I liked Leon's mentioning the true reason for their capture, and what each person represented. Lucky's morality had been mentioned at several times throughout the book, and the loss of this moral compass can potentially have significant consequences. Because despite Cora being the chosen one, Lucky was her equal and matched for her, and additionally had a sort of personality yin and yang with her. So I feel that in the next book, not only Lucky's loss, but the power hole and the imbalance it might create between Cora and the others will be something to overcome.
But then there's always Cassian.
November 18, 2020
SO this one seemed to have less twists than the last one. But a lot more world-building and information was given. So I did like that more. A bit of give and take in trying to make it a better story. I liked seeing Mali grow up and mature more. It was nice to see Rolf start to get his head screwed on straight but he and especially Nok are still so self-centered! I enjoyed seeing Lucky come into his own in the new menagerie although the synopsis makes it sound more exciting than it was. One character really adds a surprise element in a sense so I did like that it wasn't stale in pace. Cora held too many secrets about too many things. That girl seriously needs a sounding board! I am curious about the third one although less driven than I was after the first.
2020- I still don't get the Cora/Cassian thing that somehow continues a bit in this one. Cora trusts too easily. And not always the right people. I wanted to get a better feel for Leon still. I feel his character has a lot of potential but you only just begin to glimpse it before my attention was forced elsewhere. The ending felt like a better hook than the last one. Or maybe it is because I am more invested this time.
2020- I still don't get the Cora/Cassian thing that somehow continues a bit in this one. Cora trusts too easily. And not always the right people. I wanted to get a better feel for Leon still. I feel his character has a lot of potential but you only just begin to glimpse it before my attention was forced elsewhere. The ending felt like a better hook than the last one. Or maybe it is because I am more invested this time.
October 22, 2016
3,5 ster
Duidelijk een tussenboek met een redelijk voorspelbaar verloop. Maar toch erg spannend en leuk. Ik ben geen mega fan van de serie, maar het leest goed.
Duidelijk een tussenboek met een redelijk voorspelbaar verloop. Maar toch erg spannend en leuk. Ik ben geen mega fan van de serie, maar het leest goed.
May 2, 2019
This was much, much better than the first book! Lots going on with the plot and not so much idle time with the characters. I'm starting to see the direction this series is going and I'm really excited for the finale!
PS the audio version is fabulous! Almost makes me wish I listened to the first one instead of reading it.
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: https://wp.me/p7hLUw-2FR
Actual Rating: 4/5
June 23, 2016
This was a painful story. Full review can be found here: https://agingerlyreview.wordpress.com...
I recently read and reviewed The Cage, the first book in this series. If you read that review (and I hope you did! ;)) you know that when I read this book or talk about it, all I can think about is this being a YA version of a Twilight Zone eposide. I don’t mean that in a bad way, only that all I can think about are aliens, robots, and cheesy campy stories.
The Hunt picks up right where The Cage left off. The teens attempted to escape The Cage but were caught… all except one. The rest were taken to new enclosures or environments that are called The Hunt. The Hunt is basically a safari type place where animals are hunted and shot for sport. The humans within this environment tend to the wounded animals bringing them back to life so they can be hunted and shot all over again. The humans not tending to the animals are treated like preforming animals, doing tricks and performing on command for some tokens. Cora is a part of The Hunt but she is also being groomed by Cassian to participate in some type of tests that if completed, she and the humans will be considered one of the smartest beings in the galaxy. It turns out that Rolf and Nok are actually put into a dollhouse type of environment for observation of the duration of the pregnancy. The aliens want to “learn” from Nok about being pregnant and gather information that they cannot learn from books. Let’s not forget Leon. He did manage to escape The Cage and he is working with another group of aliens smuggling items while trying to figure a way out.
I’m sorry, but there is just way too much going on in this story. There are so many sub-stories that I struggled to remember which one I should be paying attention to. Do I pay more attention to Cora learning to move things with her mind or do I focus more on Nok and her pregnancy? What about Leon helping a smuggling alien or Mali knowing more than she is letting on? Answer: None of these. Not of these sub stories sunk their teeth in to me. I found myself not caring what happened to anyone. They all felt like they were reading from a script: dry and stale. You want to know who I did feel the most for? The animals. The animals that were hunted for sport and the ones that were killed for trophies. That’s who I cared about.
The story of Nok and Rolf was such a strange and out of place that it felt very unnecessary. The author wants the readers to believe that this alien race was so obsessed with human reproduction and gestation that they wanted to watch and “learn” from two teenagers that had horrible and traumatic upbringings? Nok was basically forced into child prostitution and Rolf was abused by his parents. These two don’t know what a normal family or normal pregnancy is so how can they be expected to teach aliens? Unreal.
Cora. Oh, Cora. Our protagonist. What a massive train wreck she is. She is at it again where she believes that she and she alone can solve the mysteries of the universe that will get everyone out of this mess. It is maddening to read over and over again that she believes that she has the answers to everything and she is The One To Save Everyone. Get over yourself, sweetheart. And there is still are the uncomfortable and ever present growing feelings for Cassian. *groan*
Let’s pause and talk about Mali for a moment. I have not liked this character from the moment she was introduced. She comes across as if she is a robot herself: no feelings or emotions yet carries deep dark secrets that are all powerful.
The pacing of this story was sooooooo slooooooooooooooow. The story felt like it went on forever and ended up going nowhere. The characters never developed and that was more frustrating than I can properly put into words. How can an author write two books of a series and the characters be in the same emotional/mental place??? Changing the scenery did not help this story at all. In fact, it felt like it made it worse. As I mentioned, splitting the characters up into sub-stories was a bad idea. Along with the multiple POVs. Those are not helping this story at all.
Overall, no, I did not enjoy this story. It made me more upset than anything. The characters kept doing stupid things over and over and expected different results. I’m all for a good sci-fi story but this just did not do it for me. I rated this 1.5 stars because this frustrated me more than anything. I kept picturing hamsters running on wheels and going nowhere fast.
I recently read and reviewed The Cage, the first book in this series. If you read that review (and I hope you did! ;)) you know that when I read this book or talk about it, all I can think about is this being a YA version of a Twilight Zone eposide. I don’t mean that in a bad way, only that all I can think about are aliens, robots, and cheesy campy stories.
The Hunt picks up right where The Cage left off. The teens attempted to escape The Cage but were caught… all except one. The rest were taken to new enclosures or environments that are called The Hunt. The Hunt is basically a safari type place where animals are hunted and shot for sport. The humans within this environment tend to the wounded animals bringing them back to life so they can be hunted and shot all over again. The humans not tending to the animals are treated like preforming animals, doing tricks and performing on command for some tokens. Cora is a part of The Hunt but she is also being groomed by Cassian to participate in some type of tests that if completed, she and the humans will be considered one of the smartest beings in the galaxy. It turns out that Rolf and Nok are actually put into a dollhouse type of environment for observation of the duration of the pregnancy. The aliens want to “learn” from Nok about being pregnant and gather information that they cannot learn from books. Let’s not forget Leon. He did manage to escape The Cage and he is working with another group of aliens smuggling items while trying to figure a way out.
I’m sorry, but there is just way too much going on in this story. There are so many sub-stories that I struggled to remember which one I should be paying attention to. Do I pay more attention to Cora learning to move things with her mind or do I focus more on Nok and her pregnancy? What about Leon helping a smuggling alien or Mali knowing more than she is letting on? Answer: None of these. Not of these sub stories sunk their teeth in to me. I found myself not caring what happened to anyone. They all felt like they were reading from a script: dry and stale. You want to know who I did feel the most for? The animals. The animals that were hunted for sport and the ones that were killed for trophies. That’s who I cared about.
The story of Nok and Rolf was such a strange and out of place that it felt very unnecessary. The author wants the readers to believe that this alien race was so obsessed with human reproduction and gestation that they wanted to watch and “learn” from two teenagers that had horrible and traumatic upbringings? Nok was basically forced into child prostitution and Rolf was abused by his parents. These two don’t know what a normal family or normal pregnancy is so how can they be expected to teach aliens? Unreal.
Cora. Oh, Cora. Our protagonist. What a massive train wreck she is. She is at it again where she believes that she and she alone can solve the mysteries of the universe that will get everyone out of this mess. It is maddening to read over and over again that she believes that she has the answers to everything and she is The One To Save Everyone. Get over yourself, sweetheart. And there is still are the uncomfortable and ever present growing feelings for Cassian. *groan*
Let’s pause and talk about Mali for a moment. I have not liked this character from the moment she was introduced. She comes across as if she is a robot herself: no feelings or emotions yet carries deep dark secrets that are all powerful.
The pacing of this story was sooooooo slooooooooooooooow. The story felt like it went on forever and ended up going nowhere. The characters never developed and that was more frustrating than I can properly put into words. How can an author write two books of a series and the characters be in the same emotional/mental place??? Changing the scenery did not help this story at all. In fact, it felt like it made it worse. As I mentioned, splitting the characters up into sub-stories was a bad idea. Along with the multiple POVs. Those are not helping this story at all.
Overall, no, I did not enjoy this story. It made me more upset than anything. The characters kept doing stupid things over and over and expected different results. I’m all for a good sci-fi story but this just did not do it for me. I rated this 1.5 stars because this frustrated me more than anything. I kept picturing hamsters running on wheels and going nowhere fast.
May 27, 2016
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
This second book in the series picks up right where The Cage left off. Everyone but Leon is placed in a menagerie that depicts some sort of safari, while Leon has escaped and is working for the Mosca. Cassian convinces Cora that the only way for them (and the rest of humanity) to survive, she must learn to control her psychic powers and participate in the Gauntlet, therefore proving that humans truly are an intelligent species. But while Cora agrees, she doesn’t want to play by Kindred rules. She has a plan to use her uniquely human traits to succeed at the Gauntlet and free herself and the rest of humanity.
What Fed My Addiction:
Completely different than the first book.
You know how sometimes the middle book in a series can feel a whole lot like the first book? We’ve already learned a lot about the fantasy (or, in this case, sci fi) setting, so there doesn’t feel like there’s a lot of new discoveries? Well, this book wasn’t like that. Since pretty much the entire first book took place in the Cage, we didn’t get to see much else of the world that Cora and company were now inhabiting. But in this second book, we get a whole new menagerie (two, actually) and we get to see a bit of the “outside” world as well, especially with Leon. I really liked seeing this other side of the sci fi world that Shepherd created! This book also had a completely different focus, since most of the mysteries of the first book had been solved and now Cora was trying to master her psychic abilities.
Higher stakes.
I felt like the stakes in this book were a bit higher. In the first book, you almost felt like Cora and friends could have just stayed in the Cage forever – it wouldn’t have been a particularly fulfilling existence, but for most of the book, I didn’t feel like they were on the precipice of dying or anything (although Cora did get herself into enough trouble that it was always a possibility). But in this second book, there was more of a feeling that humans were disposable. At any time, Cora or one of her friends could have been deemed “useless” and discarded. Plus, if the wrong people found out that she was developing abilities, they wouldn’t hesitate to get rid of her. In general, I just felt the danger quotient in this book was higher, and therefore it was more exciting.
The ending.
Once again, this book ended in a way that changed everything. I’m really eager to see where Shepherd heads with the next book!
What Left Me Wanting More:
Safari?
The whole safari thing seemed like kind of a weird setting (but the Kindred were kind of fascinated by weird human settings, so…) And, while I appreciated Lucky’s love of the animals in the safari setting, I couldn’t quite get behind his crusade for them – not when there were actual humans dying and being treated like animals themselves (though, I guess that was kind of one of the points of the book – the way we treat animals as “lesser” creatures was parallelled with how humans were treated by the Kindred).
Enjoyed this one even more than the first, and it has me excited to (eventually) dive into book three!! I give this one 4/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
This second book in the series picks up right where The Cage left off. Everyone but Leon is placed in a menagerie that depicts some sort of safari, while Leon has escaped and is working for the Mosca. Cassian convinces Cora that the only way for them (and the rest of humanity) to survive, she must learn to control her psychic powers and participate in the Gauntlet, therefore proving that humans truly are an intelligent species. But while Cora agrees, she doesn’t want to play by Kindred rules. She has a plan to use her uniquely human traits to succeed at the Gauntlet and free herself and the rest of humanity.
What Fed My Addiction:
Completely different than the first book.
You know how sometimes the middle book in a series can feel a whole lot like the first book? We’ve already learned a lot about the fantasy (or, in this case, sci fi) setting, so there doesn’t feel like there’s a lot of new discoveries? Well, this book wasn’t like that. Since pretty much the entire first book took place in the Cage, we didn’t get to see much else of the world that Cora and company were now inhabiting. But in this second book, we get a whole new menagerie (two, actually) and we get to see a bit of the “outside” world as well, especially with Leon. I really liked seeing this other side of the sci fi world that Shepherd created! This book also had a completely different focus, since most of the mysteries of the first book had been solved and now Cora was trying to master her psychic abilities.
Higher stakes.
I felt like the stakes in this book were a bit higher. In the first book, you almost felt like Cora and friends could have just stayed in the Cage forever – it wouldn’t have been a particularly fulfilling existence, but for most of the book, I didn’t feel like they were on the precipice of dying or anything (although Cora did get herself into enough trouble that it was always a possibility). But in this second book, there was more of a feeling that humans were disposable. At any time, Cora or one of her friends could have been deemed “useless” and discarded. Plus, if the wrong people found out that she was developing abilities, they wouldn’t hesitate to get rid of her. In general, I just felt the danger quotient in this book was higher, and therefore it was more exciting.
The ending.
Once again, this book ended in a way that changed everything. I’m really eager to see where Shepherd heads with the next book!
What Left Me Wanting More:
Safari?
The whole safari thing seemed like kind of a weird setting (but the Kindred were kind of fascinated by weird human settings, so…) And, while I appreciated Lucky’s love of the animals in the safari setting, I couldn’t quite get behind his crusade for them – not when there were actual humans dying and being treated like animals themselves (though, I guess that was kind of one of the points of the book – the way we treat animals as “lesser” creatures was parallelled with how humans were treated by the Kindred).
Enjoyed this one even more than the first, and it has me excited to (eventually) dive into book three!! I give this one 4/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
May 20, 2016
They've left the cage—but they're not free yet. After their failed escape attempt, Cora, Lucky, and Mali have been demoted to the lowest level of human captives and placed in a safari-themed environment called the Hunt, along with wild animals and other human outcasts. They must serve new Kindred masters—Cora as a lounge singer, Lucky as an animal wrangler, and Mali as a safari guide—and follow new rules or face dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, Nok and Rolf have been moved into an enormous dollhouse, observed around the clock by Kindred scientists interested in Nok's pregnancy. And Leon, the only one who successfully escaped, has teamed up with villainous Mosca black-market traders. The former inhabitants of the Cage are threatened on all fronts—and maybe worst of all, one of the Hunt's Kindred safari guests begins to play a twisted game of cat and mouse with Cora. Separated and constantly under watch, she and the others must struggle to stay alive, never mind find a way back to each other. When Cassian secretly offers to train Cora to develop her psychic abilities—to prove the worthiness of humanity in a series of tests called the Gauntlet—she'll have to decide fast if she dares to trust the Kindred who betrayed her, or if she can forge her own way to freedom.
The Hunt is a dangerous game, a dangerous mission of survival. The tension is still high, their chances of getting caught or killed is still high, and the thought of escaping and returning to Earth is drifting further away.
Cora knows more of what's true now, now that they're outside of the cage. Now that she knows who Cassian really is. Now that she knows she can't funny trust him. But to be able to leave, to be set free, she has to work with him, let him teach her how to use her growing abilities. She needs him, and she's willing to lie to him. But is that really for the best? Out of the cage, Lucky and Mali are now part of the Hunt, part of the meager workforce of a safari-type area. Where the animals are the least dangerous creatures. Leon is off running packages for a dangerous alien, learning who he can really trust, who he can call family. And Nok and Rolf are being watched because of their unborn baby, because a scientist is extremely interested in their baby. Because they want the baby. Out of the cage, no one is safe.
As with the last book, no one can really be trusted. Certain people can, certain humans, but that's about it. How can you trust those who imprisoned you, who tested you, who put you in danger over and over again? The betrayal, the lies, all the moments of doublespeak, are fresh in Cora's mind, in Mali's and Lucky's, in everyone's. They just want to go home, to leave the station and go back to Earth. And as with the last book, it's all about staying alive. Being quick and clever. Being strong.
I was never sure on what would happen because I could never predict the choices of the Kindred. Aliens with a moral code. They would do what they thought was best, but it wasn't always the human choice. I'm curious as to what the last book will bring, what will happen and how it will all end.
(I downloaded an e-galley of this title from HarperCollins through Edelweiss.)
The Hunt is a dangerous game, a dangerous mission of survival. The tension is still high, their chances of getting caught or killed is still high, and the thought of escaping and returning to Earth is drifting further away.
Cora knows more of what's true now, now that they're outside of the cage. Now that she knows who Cassian really is. Now that she knows she can't funny trust him. But to be able to leave, to be set free, she has to work with him, let him teach her how to use her growing abilities. She needs him, and she's willing to lie to him. But is that really for the best? Out of the cage, Lucky and Mali are now part of the Hunt, part of the meager workforce of a safari-type area. Where the animals are the least dangerous creatures. Leon is off running packages for a dangerous alien, learning who he can really trust, who he can call family. And Nok and Rolf are being watched because of their unborn baby, because a scientist is extremely interested in their baby. Because they want the baby. Out of the cage, no one is safe.
As with the last book, no one can really be trusted. Certain people can, certain humans, but that's about it. How can you trust those who imprisoned you, who tested you, who put you in danger over and over again? The betrayal, the lies, all the moments of doublespeak, are fresh in Cora's mind, in Mali's and Lucky's, in everyone's. They just want to go home, to leave the station and go back to Earth. And as with the last book, it's all about staying alive. Being quick and clever. Being strong.
I was never sure on what would happen because I could never predict the choices of the Kindred. Aliens with a moral code. They would do what they thought was best, but it wasn't always the human choice. I'm curious as to what the last book will bring, what will happen and how it will all end.
(I downloaded an e-galley of this title from HarperCollins through Edelweiss.)
January 16, 2016
I can't even!!
Full review soon...
July 29, 2016
recensie volgt op mijn blog!
May 29, 2017
Lange habe ich auf den Tag hin gefiebert, um zu erfahren, wie diese Reihe weitergeht. Seit dem ich „The Cage – Entführt“ gelesen habe, habe ich jeden einzelnen Tag bis zur Fortsetzung gezählt. Man kann schon ahnen, dass mir Teil eins sehr gefallen hat. „The Cage - Entführt“ hat mich gleich in seinen Bann gezogen und ich konnte einfach nicht aufhören zu lesen. Die Idee, dass Jugendliche in einer Art menschlichen Käfig von einer intelligenten Spezies festgehalten werden, fand ich sehr interessant und nicht ganz so entfernt von der Realität. Noch mehr als das, hat mir die Protagonistin Cora mit ihrem starken Willen gefallen. Bis zum Schluss hat sie sich mit dieser Situation nicht abgefunden und gekämpft.
Und genau deswegen habe ich mir viel von der Fortsetzung „The Cage- Gejagt“ erhofft. Und ich muss sagen, ich wurde überhaupt nicht enttäuscht. Die Geschichte knüpft genau da an, wo Teil eins endet. Cora und ihre Freunde finden sich in einer schrecklichen Situation wieder. Am Anfang fand ich das Setting ein bisschen unspektakulärer als im ersten Band. Aber nach und nach, wurde es immer interessanter und spannender. Die Situation, in der sich Cora und ihre Freunde wiederfinden, wurde immer grausamer und gefährlicher, umso nerven zerreißender wurde dann das Lesen. Ich bin förmlich durch die Seite geflogen, was auch an dem angenehmen und flüssigen Schreibstil lag. Megan Shepherd hat mich mal wieder vollkommen überzeugt.
Was mir besonders gefallen hat, war der Zusammenhalt der Gruppe. Obwohl ich im ersten Teil manche Charaktere ziemlich dumm fand, haben sich alle in diesem Teil zu starken Persönlichkeiten weiterentwickelt. Besonders Lucky. In Band eins hatte er mich einfach genervt und hier, war er sehr selbstlos. Kurz hatte ich mit der Denkweise und Handlung von Cora zu kämpfen, aber Lucky hat sie wieder in die richtige Richtung geführt. Achh und Cassian.. Was soll ich zu ihm sagen? Er war mal wieder der Beste in der Geschichte. Ich kann es kaum erwarten, die Fortsetzung zu lesen, weil das Ende einfach wieder so gut war. Ich bin sehr gespannt, wie diese Reihe endet und wie es mit der Liebesgeschichte weitergeht.
„The Cage- Gejagt“ ist eine gelungene und spannende Fortsetzung und für jeden Dystopie-Fan ein Muss!
Und genau deswegen habe ich mir viel von der Fortsetzung „The Cage- Gejagt“ erhofft. Und ich muss sagen, ich wurde überhaupt nicht enttäuscht. Die Geschichte knüpft genau da an, wo Teil eins endet. Cora und ihre Freunde finden sich in einer schrecklichen Situation wieder. Am Anfang fand ich das Setting ein bisschen unspektakulärer als im ersten Band. Aber nach und nach, wurde es immer interessanter und spannender. Die Situation, in der sich Cora und ihre Freunde wiederfinden, wurde immer grausamer und gefährlicher, umso nerven zerreißender wurde dann das Lesen. Ich bin förmlich durch die Seite geflogen, was auch an dem angenehmen und flüssigen Schreibstil lag. Megan Shepherd hat mich mal wieder vollkommen überzeugt.
Was mir besonders gefallen hat, war der Zusammenhalt der Gruppe. Obwohl ich im ersten Teil manche Charaktere ziemlich dumm fand, haben sich alle in diesem Teil zu starken Persönlichkeiten weiterentwickelt. Besonders Lucky. In Band eins hatte er mich einfach genervt und hier, war er sehr selbstlos. Kurz hatte ich mit der Denkweise und Handlung von Cora zu kämpfen, aber Lucky hat sie wieder in die richtige Richtung geführt. Achh und Cassian.. Was soll ich zu ihm sagen? Er war mal wieder der Beste in der Geschichte. Ich kann es kaum erwarten, die Fortsetzung zu lesen, weil das Ende einfach wieder so gut war. Ich bin sehr gespannt, wie diese Reihe endet und wie es mit der Liebesgeschichte weitergeht.
„The Cage- Gejagt“ ist eine gelungene und spannende Fortsetzung und für jeden Dystopie-Fan ein Muss!
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