What do you think?
Rate this book
Configured #1
Configured
In the future love will make you a traitor.
120 years after a virus decimated earth’s population the survivors thrive in safety, away from the death and destruction of the Outerbounds. Divided into three levels of intellect, Citizens focus solely on duty.
Due to her advanced intelligence, seventeen-year-old Avlyn Lark is separated from her twin brother at birth and raised by adoptive parents. She gains privilege, the ideal future. He dies. Avlyn barely knows him yet remains linked to his memory.
But following a string of rebel intrusions on the city, Avlyn receives a cryptic message and begins seeing visions of her dead twin. The mysterious radical who urges Avlyn to join their fight becomes her link to answers. Freedom.
Opportunity awaits, but if she says yes will she lose it all?
Configured is the first novel in a trilogy YA dystopian/light romance that poses the question: does humanity need love for survival? Fans of Divergent, Matched, and the Maze Runner will love this world of dark secrets, intrigue and desire for a better tomorrow.
120 years after a virus decimated earth’s population the survivors thrive in safety, away from the death and destruction of the Outerbounds. Divided into three levels of intellect, Citizens focus solely on duty.
Due to her advanced intelligence, seventeen-year-old Avlyn Lark is separated from her twin brother at birth and raised by adoptive parents. She gains privilege, the ideal future. He dies. Avlyn barely knows him yet remains linked to his memory.
But following a string of rebel intrusions on the city, Avlyn receives a cryptic message and begins seeing visions of her dead twin. The mysterious radical who urges Avlyn to join their fight becomes her link to answers. Freedom.
Opportunity awaits, but if she says yes will she lose it all?
Configured is the first novel in a trilogy YA dystopian/light romance that poses the question: does humanity need love for survival? Fans of Divergent, Matched, and the Maze Runner will love this world of dark secrets, intrigue and desire for a better tomorrow.
434 pages, ebook
First published October 20, 2016
3025 people are currently reading
5059 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
Want to read
December 23, 2017Clean Young adult series?
No fake adverstising? It's a YA advertised as YA
Decent word of mouth?
Dystopian romance?
Free on Kindle unlimited?
It sounds really good!
I might read this one! I just hope the author doesn't add cheating later. If she adds sex I might still read it, but I'll post the info. As of late publishers, authors and Goodreads gods have been trying to shove sex scenes down our throats without our knowledge taking away our sacred right of deciding whether we'll read a smut book or not, by trying to make certain books pass as clean reads.
Note: I prefer smut books, but I need ACCURATE info about smut in YA books not Goodreads shoving smut books down our throats with no proper warnings so that when I need a break of people getting their clothes off and mating I can pick the right book.
Yep, I don't miss a chance to talk about it. You can't give young adult books as a gift to underage readers anymore without looking like a child molester. Even series that start clean, might become later become raunchy and Goodreads won't make it easier for you to find the correct information. On the contrary!
Second Note (copying directly from a comment on my Tower of Dawn review):
It's the responsability of the parents, not of the publishers and booksellers to look up for information for the content of what their children read, but Goodreads, some Booktubers and Common sense media aren't helping the few parents who do look up get the accurate information and that's a shame.
No fake adverstising? It's a YA advertised as YA
Decent word of mouth?
Dystopian romance?
Free on Kindle unlimited?
It sounds really good!
I might read this one! I just hope the author doesn't add cheating later. If she adds sex I might still read it, but I'll post the info. As of late publishers, authors and Goodreads gods have been trying to shove sex scenes down our throats without our knowledge taking away our sacred right of deciding whether we'll read a smut book or not, by trying to make certain books pass as clean reads.
Note: I prefer smut books, but I need ACCURATE info about smut in YA books not Goodreads shoving smut books down our throats with no proper warnings so that when I need a break of people getting their clothes off and mating I can pick the right book.
Yep, I don't miss a chance to talk about it. You can't give young adult books as a gift to underage readers anymore without looking like a child molester. Even series that start clean, might become later become raunchy and Goodreads won't make it easier for you to find the correct information. On the contrary!
Second Note (copying directly from a comment on my Tower of Dawn review):
It's the responsability of the parents, not of the publishers and booksellers to look up for information for the content of what their children read, but Goodreads, some Booktubers and Common sense media aren't helping the few parents who do look up get the accurate information and that's a shame.
January 28, 2020
3.5 reconfigurating STARS ★★★✬✩
⤐ Overall.
I realised I had the entire trilogy at my disposal when I drew this for the Devour your TBR challenge and guess what I'll be doing. Darn right, I'll binge this series.
By the end of the book, I realised that there's a lot less romance in there than one would expect according to the synopsis. I really liked that because it gives air to the plot which was very gripping.
Average characters are not always a bad thing. I wouldn't say any of the MCs or SCs are remarkable. They were touchable and distinguishable from one another.
World(-building). I have to admit I'm not sure I had trouble falling into this world because I didn't always pay proper attention (shame on me) or because - right, this is bullshit. I admit it. I didn't pay proper attention in the beginning and I have no excuses, okay? Shame on me! The world of Configured is amazing and realistic, I enjoyed it very much.
⤐ What’s happening.
When your only worth to society is your intelligence, how much does it take for you to leave it behind and join the ranks of the rebels, where love and affection are as natural as breathing? Not much once it's obvious there's more going wrong than right, Avalyn has to realise.
_____________________
writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 4*
plot/story in general = 4*
plot development = 4*
characters = 3*
enjoyability = 4*
insightfulness = 2*
_____________________
Many thanks to the author Jenetta Penner, who provided me with an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
This book is for you if… it has been a while since you were hunger gaming or diverging. It's obviously not quite as good, but still pleasant. Much is to be expected from the sequel
⤐ Overall.
I realised I had the entire trilogy at my disposal when I drew this for the Devour your TBR challenge and guess what I'll be doing. Darn right, I'll binge this series.
By the end of the book, I realised that there's a lot less romance in there than one would expect according to the synopsis. I really liked that because it gives air to the plot which was very gripping.
Average characters are not always a bad thing. I wouldn't say any of the MCs or SCs are remarkable. They were touchable and distinguishable from one another.
World(-building). I have to admit I'm not sure I had trouble falling into this world because I didn't always pay proper attention (shame on me) or because - right, this is bullshit. I admit it. I didn't pay proper attention in the beginning and I have no excuses, okay? Shame on me! The world of Configured is amazing and realistic, I enjoyed it very much.
⤐ What’s happening.
‘No one should die for the right to love. That kind of freedom is worth fighting for.’
When your only worth to society is your intelligence, how much does it take for you to leave it behind and join the ranks of the rebels, where love and affection are as natural as breathing? Not much once it's obvious there's more going wrong than right, Avalyn has to realise.
Con:
⇢ minimum social backup
⇢ each step is monitored
⇢ who can be trusted?
Pro:
⇢ new allies = emotional support
⇢ fighting for what you believe in feels darn good
⇢ one special new ally = very yummy
_____________________
writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 4*
plot/story in general = 4*
plot development = 4*
characters = 3*
enjoyability = 4*
insightfulness = 2*
_____________________
Many thanks to the author Jenetta Penner, who provided me with an eArc in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2017
Configured, By Jenetta Penner is one of those stories that grabs you and pulls you in immediately from the beginning.
This was such an addicting tale so don't let the fact this is YA put you off, as this saga is an appealing prospect whatever you're age.
Configured is the first Instalment in this trilogy and it sure packs a punch. It is set in a dystopian future 120 years after a virus has devastated the earth population.
The population is now segregated according to intelligence and our heroine seventeen-year-old Avlyn Lark a level two resident starts questioning the regime she has been born into.
This was a fast moving exciting thrill ride of a story, I love it when a book is just so easily enjoyed, no overthinking just a lovely reading experience. well, this is what configured was like a new friend you're just getting acquainted with and you're hitting it off.
And after the visit, your wanting round two, which will be the second book in this tale and I can say hand on heart that is a visit I am Definitely looking forward to.
So give this a go if you like dystopian fiction as this is a gem you just don't want to miss.
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
This was such an addicting tale so don't let the fact this is YA put you off, as this saga is an appealing prospect whatever you're age.
Configured is the first Instalment in this trilogy and it sure packs a punch. It is set in a dystopian future 120 years after a virus has devastated the earth population.
The population is now segregated according to intelligence and our heroine seventeen-year-old Avlyn Lark a level two resident starts questioning the regime she has been born into.
This was a fast moving exciting thrill ride of a story, I love it when a book is just so easily enjoyed, no overthinking just a lovely reading experience. well, this is what configured was like a new friend you're just getting acquainted with and you're hitting it off.
And after the visit, your wanting round two, which will be the second book in this tale and I can say hand on heart that is a visit I am Definitely looking forward to.
So give this a go if you like dystopian fiction as this is a gem you just don't want to miss.
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
October 18, 2016
*This review can also be found here on A Leisure Moment*
**I beta read this novel for the author**
Avlyn Lark’s world was designed for maximum efficiency. Her whole life was planned out for her based on where she fit in society. I loved the class system that Penner created. There was a noticeable divide between each class, and it didn’t cross bloodlines. Just because your biological parents were a one, didn’t mean you didn’t belong in a world of twos. Dystopian fiction is such a precarious a topic to tread upon, but Penner didn’t hesitate in creating a new world to dive into.
First, the rebellion kept me on my toes. Since Avlyn had to learn all this information from scratch, so did I. I had no trouble getting caught up in the mayhem and mystique that followed Meyer around the city, Direction, or the doubt accompanied with everyone Avlyn passed on the street. Were they going to be okay? What was the next step? What happens if they get caught? It all had me on the edge of my seat and dying to know more. Also, I loved the technology. Affinity, the name coined by the rebels, had different tech than presented in other dystopian novels. The tech she coined felt like a possibility for our future, not just the future of Direction.
Next: the romance. Meyer definitely had his appeal. He was a mystery, and the chemistry between him and Avlyn was undeniable. Their romance had a slow burn. They started in the “who the heck do you think you are?” stage and stepped into the just friends stage. They didn’t overstep their boundaries and weren’t kissing while bombs destroyed the level one sector or giving each other puppy dog eyes when Affinity was planning their next attack. It felt realistic, even in a dystopian world, and captured the arc of many relationships during the teenage years. Although, shockingly, another character caught my eye: Aron. At first, Aron was a means to an end, but the more I got to know him, the more I liked him. I didn’t expect to like him, and he constantly surprised me. I sense a love triangle brewing, and I love it!
Some of my favorite side characters were Lena and Jayson. Lena entered the story and didn’t let on to her importance in the story until I needed to know why she had a role to play. Jayson acted as Meyer’s father figure and was impossible not to love. Both of these characters hold a special place in my heart, and Penner knows how to write main characters that matter, as well as side characters that you’ll end up loving.
Configured is the perfect book to dive into if you’re looking for your next dystopian read. Full of adventure, wonder, and technology of the future, it has everything you could ever need in a world like Direction. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and continue Avlyn Lark’s story and see where the path she’s chosen takes her.
**I beta read this novel for the author**
Avlyn Lark’s world was designed for maximum efficiency. Her whole life was planned out for her based on where she fit in society. I loved the class system that Penner created. There was a noticeable divide between each class, and it didn’t cross bloodlines. Just because your biological parents were a one, didn’t mean you didn’t belong in a world of twos. Dystopian fiction is such a precarious a topic to tread upon, but Penner didn’t hesitate in creating a new world to dive into.
First, the rebellion kept me on my toes. Since Avlyn had to learn all this information from scratch, so did I. I had no trouble getting caught up in the mayhem and mystique that followed Meyer around the city, Direction, or the doubt accompanied with everyone Avlyn passed on the street. Were they going to be okay? What was the next step? What happens if they get caught? It all had me on the edge of my seat and dying to know more. Also, I loved the technology. Affinity, the name coined by the rebels, had different tech than presented in other dystopian novels. The tech she coined felt like a possibility for our future, not just the future of Direction.
Next: the romance. Meyer definitely had his appeal. He was a mystery, and the chemistry between him and Avlyn was undeniable. Their romance had a slow burn. They started in the “who the heck do you think you are?” stage and stepped into the just friends stage. They didn’t overstep their boundaries and weren’t kissing while bombs destroyed the level one sector or giving each other puppy dog eyes when Affinity was planning their next attack. It felt realistic, even in a dystopian world, and captured the arc of many relationships during the teenage years. Although, shockingly, another character caught my eye: Aron. At first, Aron was a means to an end, but the more I got to know him, the more I liked him. I didn’t expect to like him, and he constantly surprised me. I sense a love triangle brewing, and I love it!
Some of my favorite side characters were Lena and Jayson. Lena entered the story and didn’t let on to her importance in the story until I needed to know why she had a role to play. Jayson acted as Meyer’s father figure and was impossible not to love. Both of these characters hold a special place in my heart, and Penner knows how to write main characters that matter, as well as side characters that you’ll end up loving.
Configured is the perfect book to dive into if you’re looking for your next dystopian read. Full of adventure, wonder, and technology of the future, it has everything you could ever need in a world like Direction. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and continue Avlyn Lark’s story and see where the path she’s chosen takes her.
Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram | BlogLovin | YouTube | Itunes
May 23, 2020
2020 REREAD NOTES: Yeah, my review is about the same now as it was then. I just want to reread the first 2 so I can get to book 3 and officially say I finished this series. (And can we admit it's a bit too real that it was a virus that wiped out so much of the population?)
Man, I would love to be able to immerse myself in code and be able to find all of the little bugs in seconds. It would make life so much easier (and mean I wouldn't spend as long yelling at computers).
Overall, this is a decent book. It's a fun little read, with a few plot holes here and there. The character was... a character. She felt kind of flat, and her personality was lacking, but at the same time I feel like that was on purpose? I mean, she is a Level Two after all, who needs normal human emotions? :P
Man, I would love to be able to immerse myself in code and be able to find all of the little bugs in seconds. It would make life so much easier (and mean I wouldn't spend as long yelling at computers).
Overall, this is a decent book. It's a fun little read, with a few plot holes here and there. The character was... a character. She felt kind of flat, and her personality was lacking, but at the same time I feel like that was on purpose? I mean, she is a Level Two after all, who needs normal human emotions? :P
October 24, 2016
I received this book as an advanced reader copy from the author herself in exchange for an honest review.
"Defiant thoughts roll around in my brain. Why is it that a few people get to decide how we should live?"
I have read a lot of dystopian novels in the past few years, and this one stands out from the masses. I loved almost every aspect of it. The plot moved fairly quickly, and you never knew what direction it was going to go in. The supporting characters were amazing, and the main character herself was decent. I did get a Divergent/The Giver vibe, but only a tad bit. I kept thinking that Affinity will show a bad side to themselves, like in The Hunger Games, but it never happened. Which I was greatful for, there already are plenty of books where the rebel cause is just as bad as the current government.
"No one should die for the right to love. That kind of freedom is worth fighting for."
As far as world building goes, Penner does a great job of going into detail about her new dystopian world. While I don't necessarily want a food printer, I wouldn't mind having an EP. Who wouldn't like to know when someone you don't like is about to go around the corner? Elora through Avlyn's eyes was great. In the beginning, we see how Avlyn struggles to fit in with her fellow citizens and her prejudices for Level Ones. As she transitions to a rebel for Affinity, we see how she struggles with this new idea that she doesn't have to hide her emotions around them
"If I'm going to die, I'm at least going to try to save my parents."
I think I enjoyed the supporting characters a little bit more than our MC, Avlyn. I thought Avlyn was a little bit of a weak character, but she was strong when she needed to be. I wanted her to have more of a backbone at least by halfway through the novel, but she didn't develop it until near the end. It seemed as if every time Avlyn resolved that she had made the right choice in picking the rebel cause, she would grow and become more confident in her decisions. But then, the next time a mission or something comes up, we are back to square one with the indecision. This aspect was the only part of the book that I did not enjoy. I hope in the second book Avlyn will be a stronger character than she was in this one. I also hope that we find out more about Avlyns immersion power(?), she used it all throughout the book but she would only say she doesn't know why it happens. I was hoping she would discover a little bit more about her ability at some point in the book, but maybe that'll be in the next installment.
"'Avlyn, this world is both beautiful and broken.' She closes her eyes, and her breathing slows. 'Make more beautiful moments than broken ones.'"
The supporting characters were what made the book, in my opinion! Meyer...what can I say about him that won't give anything away? He is the stereotypical stoic guy who only treats Avlyn like an assignment, but really has feelings for her deep down. I like that Penner didn't include a insta-love type of situation here, their feelings grew gradually and wasn't the main aspect of the book. Sometimes romance takes over a book and the plot gets lost, I am glad to say that it did not happen here. Everyone else you had to wonder if they were a part of Affinity or not, which made it interesting to find out who actually was a rebel.
"Everyone has secrets."
If you are a fan of dystopian novels, you should definitely check out this book. You also get a nice dose of futuristic technology, that I wish we had today! For a debut novel, Penner did an excellent job of drawing the reader in from the very beginning. I can't wait to see what is in store next for Avlyn, Meyer and all the other characters!
"Defiant thoughts roll around in my brain. Why is it that a few people get to decide how we should live?"
I have read a lot of dystopian novels in the past few years, and this one stands out from the masses. I loved almost every aspect of it. The plot moved fairly quickly, and you never knew what direction it was going to go in. The supporting characters were amazing, and the main character herself was decent. I did get a Divergent/The Giver vibe, but only a tad bit. I kept thinking that Affinity will show a bad side to themselves, like in The Hunger Games, but it never happened. Which I was greatful for, there already are plenty of books where the rebel cause is just as bad as the current government.
"No one should die for the right to love. That kind of freedom is worth fighting for."
As far as world building goes, Penner does a great job of going into detail about her new dystopian world. While I don't necessarily want a food printer, I wouldn't mind having an EP. Who wouldn't like to know when someone you don't like is about to go around the corner? Elora through Avlyn's eyes was great. In the beginning, we see how Avlyn struggles to fit in with her fellow citizens and her prejudices for Level Ones. As she transitions to a rebel for Affinity, we see how she struggles with this new idea that she doesn't have to hide her emotions around them
"If I'm going to die, I'm at least going to try to save my parents."
I think I enjoyed the supporting characters a little bit more than our MC, Avlyn. I thought Avlyn was a little bit of a weak character, but she was strong when she needed to be. I wanted her to have more of a backbone at least by halfway through the novel, but she didn't develop it until near the end. It seemed as if every time Avlyn resolved that she had made the right choice in picking the rebel cause, she would grow and become more confident in her decisions. But then, the next time a mission or something comes up, we are back to square one with the indecision. This aspect was the only part of the book that I did not enjoy. I hope in the second book Avlyn will be a stronger character than she was in this one. I also hope that we find out more about Avlyns immersion power(?), she used it all throughout the book but she would only say she doesn't know why it happens. I was hoping she would discover a little bit more about her ability at some point in the book, but maybe that'll be in the next installment.
"'Avlyn, this world is both beautiful and broken.' She closes her eyes, and her breathing slows. 'Make more beautiful moments than broken ones.'"
The supporting characters were what made the book, in my opinion! Meyer...what can I say about him that won't give anything away? He is the stereotypical stoic guy who only treats Avlyn like an assignment, but really has feelings for her deep down. I like that Penner didn't include a insta-love type of situation here, their feelings grew gradually and wasn't the main aspect of the book. Sometimes romance takes over a book and the plot gets lost, I am glad to say that it did not happen here. Everyone else you had to wonder if they were a part of Affinity or not, which made it interesting to find out who actually was a rebel.
"Everyone has secrets."
If you are a fan of dystopian novels, you should definitely check out this book. You also get a nice dose of futuristic technology, that I wish we had today! For a debut novel, Penner did an excellent job of drawing the reader in from the very beginning. I can't wait to see what is in store next for Avlyn, Meyer and all the other characters!
February 9, 2017
To start, I received an advance reader copy of this book.
I give this a book a 10 out of 10 stars.
To start the cliche saying of don’t judge a book by it’s cover, is not true in this case; go look at the cover and the book trailer, you will see the thought placed into it and how well it fits these genres and how intriguing they both really are! Sets the book up to be great and the book delivers! Now back to the actual content of the book ...
I am a huge Dystopian Reader and this book is able to combine science fiction, dystopian, fantasy and more to create a book that attracts people with all different interests. For me, being a teen, I found this book to be very connectable from the times when she said “my heart’s doing its best to escape again” to when she says, “I am not who I thought I was.” This brings me into talking about Avlyn, the main character. Avlyn is a very connectable character for the time right now, she combines several different personality’s that makes her relate to so many people. This book is also my definition of a “modern book.” Ok nobody will know what this is so here is my explanation: this means that it connects many different aspects of things that have a growing presence in our world. The big thing that the book talks about is the hacking, which a prediction I have made several times, will have a growing presence in all books, especially in the YA genre. Going back to this book, the hacking part is intertwined with action of the book, in a very, very perfect way! This book has you sitting on the edge of your seat through the end with the multiple places with action involved and the end that is - I will end that sentence there, in the hopes of not giving to much away. Majority of book reviews will say that same thing, but I read Dystopian A LOT and when I say that this book is new, different, and action packed I really mean it! Many books will be intertwined with a character that is driven by love, romance, or something that just doesn’t seem real, but this book creates a real passion and interest about this new dystopian world.
I hate it when people begin with for a “debut author” this is an awesome book, but here is the thing: For a debut author she writes amazing. For an author [just like anyone that has written a book or two] she writes amazing! Jenetta Penner creates connections between the beginning of the book and the end, with the first and the last, everything connects back to Avlyn who in a way changes herself and in a way stays herself (I guess you will have to read the book to make any sense of that last line!).
My final word is for me to thank Jenetta for giving me the honor to not only advance read this book as well as Beta read this book, but for Jenetta to let us into this perfectly crafted world of her’s that is written “awesomely” and I can't wait to see where this book goes [In both this world and Avlyn's!] As I am sure I will say again and again and you will hear it about several books ... Just read it!
I give this a book a 10 out of 10 stars.
To start the cliche saying of don’t judge a book by it’s cover, is not true in this case; go look at the cover and the book trailer, you will see the thought placed into it and how well it fits these genres and how intriguing they both really are! Sets the book up to be great and the book delivers! Now back to the actual content of the book ...
I am a huge Dystopian Reader and this book is able to combine science fiction, dystopian, fantasy and more to create a book that attracts people with all different interests. For me, being a teen, I found this book to be very connectable from the times when she said “my heart’s doing its best to escape again” to when she says, “I am not who I thought I was.” This brings me into talking about Avlyn, the main character. Avlyn is a very connectable character for the time right now, she combines several different personality’s that makes her relate to so many people. This book is also my definition of a “modern book.” Ok nobody will know what this is so here is my explanation: this means that it connects many different aspects of things that have a growing presence in our world. The big thing that the book talks about is the hacking, which a prediction I have made several times, will have a growing presence in all books, especially in the YA genre. Going back to this book, the hacking part is intertwined with action of the book, in a very, very perfect way! This book has you sitting on the edge of your seat through the end with the multiple places with action involved and the end that is - I will end that sentence there, in the hopes of not giving to much away. Majority of book reviews will say that same thing, but I read Dystopian A LOT and when I say that this book is new, different, and action packed I really mean it! Many books will be intertwined with a character that is driven by love, romance, or something that just doesn’t seem real, but this book creates a real passion and interest about this new dystopian world.
I hate it when people begin with for a “debut author” this is an awesome book, but here is the thing: For a debut author she writes amazing. For an author [just like anyone that has written a book or two] she writes amazing! Jenetta Penner creates connections between the beginning of the book and the end, with the first and the last, everything connects back to Avlyn who in a way changes herself and in a way stays herself (I guess you will have to read the book to make any sense of that last line!).
My final word is for me to thank Jenetta for giving me the honor to not only advance read this book as well as Beta read this book, but for Jenetta to let us into this perfectly crafted world of her’s that is written “awesomely” and I can't wait to see where this book goes [In both this world and Avlyn's!] As I am sure I will say again and again and you will hear it about several books ... Just read it!
September 8, 2021
There were some parts I thought were decent. Overall though, it was too similar to many other things I've read.
October 16, 2016
So good! Penner set up a world in the not so distant future where people are sorted into "levels" depending on their intelligence.. We follow Avlyn Joy Lark as she turns seventeen and is thrown into the adult world run by Direction. Haunted by the loss of her twin brother, and taken away from her biological mother, Avlyn dives head first into a rebel group called Affinity, where she doesn't have to keep her emotions in check.
This book is quick paced with high stakes and a lot of emotion.
I cannot wait until the next book.
This book is quick paced with high stakes and a lot of emotion.
I cannot wait until the next book.
February 2, 2017
2.5 stars, with a half-star bonus for correct grammar and punctuation usage.
The premise of this book is pretty great. A young girl, who has lived her whole life in a structured community, is sent out on her own as an adult. She is assigned a job and is to choose a spouse. The only problem is that she's never really been comfortable and now she's learning things and meeting people who are validating her concerns. She must use her computer skills to break into the governmental files and rescue those who are her friends. Sounds pretty good, right?
The problem is that the characters are fairly flat. I didn't connect to any of them. There was also a lot going on in the set-up of the world, but it wasn't fully explained. The MC seemed to be bipolar in her actions and thoughts. One moment she's never felt emotion or created any emotional bonds to anyone, and the next she's so worried about her "parents" that she can't help but run into danger for them. These are people that she couldn't wait to get out of her life. It just didn't work for me. One last issue I had was the way the MC interacts with the digital world. It was never explained, and really doesn't make sense with the knowledge readers have about her world. Perhaps if there was more explanation about what the nanos do or even why the society is organized as it is, it would be a little more clear. As it is, the reader is plopped down into this story where some things are explained and some mentions of people or ideas are never used.
Overall, I think this could be a great book. It just left too much unanswered and I was not satisfied with the story I got out of it. Those who are looking for a quick sci-fi read may enjoy it a little more.
The premise of this book is pretty great. A young girl, who has lived her whole life in a structured community, is sent out on her own as an adult. She is assigned a job and is to choose a spouse. The only problem is that she's never really been comfortable and now she's learning things and meeting people who are validating her concerns. She must use her computer skills to break into the governmental files and rescue those who are her friends. Sounds pretty good, right?
The problem is that the characters are fairly flat. I didn't connect to any of them. There was also a lot going on in the set-up of the world, but it wasn't fully explained. The MC seemed to be bipolar in her actions and thoughts. One moment she's never felt emotion or created any emotional bonds to anyone, and the next she's so worried about her "parents" that she can't help but run into danger for them. These are people that she couldn't wait to get out of her life. It just didn't work for me. One last issue I had was the way the MC interacts with the digital world. It was never explained, and really doesn't make sense with the knowledge readers have about her world. Perhaps if there was more explanation about what the nanos do or even why the society is organized as it is, it would be a little more clear. As it is, the reader is plopped down into this story where some things are explained and some mentions of people or ideas are never used.
Overall, I think this could be a great book. It just left too much unanswered and I was not satisfied with the story I got out of it. Those who are looking for a quick sci-fi read may enjoy it a little more.
February 26, 2024
I excitedly read the dystopian novel, “Configured”, in which the author, Jenetta Panner, almost always kept me on the edge of my seat! Despite the beginning of the story moving quite slowly, the rest of the book was just a thrill to read. This dystopian novel touches on several problems the main character named Avlyn Lark, goes through. From Avlyn's small love life to her complicated occupation, Avlyn must maintain her secret job a secret.* For instance, she undergoes many missions with her co-worker, Lena, which involves lots of bravery and strength. These missions are against the government due to the government being excessively strict. The author, Jenetta Penner, did a great job keeping me engaged in the book. Specifically, when there were many issues regarding the secret missions Avlyn had to go through. I adored Avlyn's coworker, Lena, because of her strong mentality and her big compassion for her job. In one scene, Lena assures Avlyn she will be okay during an intense mission.; “Relax, just do your best. You're capable.” I just love how Lena always was there for the people who needed it. One part I disliked about this book is that the very beginning of the book moves slowly. Otherwise, the rest of the book was at a fast pace. Overall, I am so happy I read this book because of its interesting plot and amazing characters!
October 3, 2019
This was an intriguing start to the Configured series! 120 years into the future, the world is run by Direction, people are sorted into three levels based on their intelligence and wanting freedom or love can get you killed. Avlyn was separated from her brother at birth, raised by adoptive parents, given level two status, and given a privileged life. After her brother’s death, she begins to see his memories. She’s recruited by Affinity, the rebellion, and her world turns upside down as emotions and revelations start to flood her. Her character felt a little flat, weak, and uncertain of herself outside of her ability to code, but during her journey, her personality and self esteem grew. I loved that we were learning the truth about her world as she was and it kept me on my toes. Avlyn and Meyer’s relationship felt realistic and it wasn’t instalove- I enjoyed watching it develop throughout the book. Jenetta did a wonderful job creating this dystopian world, the technology, the class system, and how it ran.
Lillie did a really good job with this narration. She spoke a a steady pace and used distinct voices for each character. I liked that she brought the newness of emotions for Avlyn and the emotionless dystopian world to life!
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Lillie did a really good job with this narration. She spoke a a steady pace and used distinct voices for each character. I liked that she brought the newness of emotions for Avlyn and the emotionless dystopian world to life!
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 16, 2016
So there are a couple of very minor spoilers in my review. However nothing is revealed that will affect your reading pleasure.
And wow!! I really enjoyed it, I went through it a lot faster than I expected. When I first started to read it and when I first heard about it... to be honest I wasn't sure... I thought that the story line sounded really good but like something that had been done before but with slight differences. However it surprised me and I really look forward to Book 2!
There was a time or two that I really got annoyed with Avlyn - the main character - because of her being a bit naive and such, but to be completely fair, I get annoyed quite easily... Tris (Divergent) annoyed me like you can't believe!
The story remind me of Matched by Ally Condie, mostly because of everyone trusting the "government" or in this case Director, and believing that whatever they do is best and then the pairing thing, the difference being that here you have a few choices. And it reminded me a bit of Delirium by Lauren Oliver, mostly that showing emotions can get you into heaps of trouble!
Oh! And the printers... guys they are so cool and totally creepy at the same time! On one hand how cool would it be to just press a few buttons and have food made for you? But then on the other hand... gross... recycling food to get made into more food... gag... and you don't know what the stuff the food is printed out of is made of... just that it's "good" for you... says the Director.
And to be honest I felt like I was going to ship Meyer and Avlyn but... I ended up shipping Aron and Avlyn... Just because he is super sweet even if he is a bit of a mindless drone... haha, you'll get it when you read it... and Meyer, while being totally shippable... He just didn't make me need him to end up with her... I like him and if he does end up with her then that's great but I still feel as though Aron has a chance... Please please please let him have a chance!!!!
I gave this book 4 stars because while I loved the story and can't wait for the next book... I still feel like there is a slight something missing...
And wow!! I really enjoyed it, I went through it a lot faster than I expected. When I first started to read it and when I first heard about it... to be honest I wasn't sure... I thought that the story line sounded really good but like something that had been done before but with slight differences. However it surprised me and I really look forward to Book 2!
There was a time or two that I really got annoyed with Avlyn - the main character - because of her being a bit naive and such, but to be completely fair, I get annoyed quite easily... Tris (Divergent) annoyed me like you can't believe!
The story remind me of Matched by Ally Condie, mostly because of everyone trusting the "government" or in this case Director, and believing that whatever they do is best and then the pairing thing, the difference being that here you have a few choices. And it reminded me a bit of Delirium by Lauren Oliver, mostly that showing emotions can get you into heaps of trouble!
Oh! And the printers... guys they are so cool and totally creepy at the same time! On one hand how cool would it be to just press a few buttons and have food made for you? But then on the other hand... gross... recycling food to get made into more food... gag... and you don't know what the stuff the food is printed out of is made of... just that it's "good" for you... says the Director.
And to be honest I felt like I was going to ship Meyer and Avlyn but... I ended up shipping Aron and Avlyn... Just because he is super sweet even if he is a bit of a mindless drone... haha, you'll get it when you read it... and Meyer, while being totally shippable... He just didn't make me need him to end up with her... I like him and if he does end up with her then that's great but I still feel as though Aron has a chance... Please please please let him have a chance!!!!
I gave this book 4 stars because while I loved the story and can't wait for the next book... I still feel like there is a slight something missing...
February 5, 2017
This book was an enjoyable read. I agree with other reviews that there was a dash of Hunger Games and Divergent thrown in but there is only so many Dystopian type stories to tell. The main character was likable and easy to relate to as she had her moments of doubt and guilt but her humanity and abilities made her stand out in a world where only conformity was rewarded.. Avlyn wanted to do the right thing although the choices she made all had consequences and she would have to live with that. Some secrets are revealed at the end which surprised me so that was a bonus. Overall this was a good first book and this series has piqued my interest so I will reading the next one when it released.
April 26, 2020
3.5
Okay, so I picked up this book because not only had some friends told me it fits with our COVID-19 crap going on lol but that sense I enjoyed Divergent (still not over that trilogy. Tore me to pieces it did!) I would most likely enjoy this as well.
And, well, they where right. I did enjoy this. It was different. I like encountering books that are different and dont blend into the mold.
But there is one thing I had issue with. Our main heroine, well....she was a whimp. That is the reason it's a 3.5 instead of a 4.5. Because the main character just wasnt what I was hopping shed turn out to be.
I will be reading to finish the trilogy, and I hope that improves. I'll let y'all know!
Okay, so I picked up this book because not only had some friends told me it fits with our COVID-19 crap going on lol but that sense I enjoyed Divergent (still not over that trilogy. Tore me to pieces it did!) I would most likely enjoy this as well.
And, well, they where right. I did enjoy this. It was different. I like encountering books that are different and dont blend into the mold.
But there is one thing I had issue with. Our main heroine, well....she was a whimp. That is the reason it's a 3.5 instead of a 4.5. Because the main character just wasnt what I was hopping shed turn out to be.
I will be reading to finish the trilogy, and I hope that improves. I'll let y'all know!
August 22, 2019
Amazing
It was an easy read. Definitely felt the character development could be improved but is a great start to this trilogy and definitely would recommend reading.
It was an easy read. Definitely felt the character development could be improved but is a great start to this trilogy and definitely would recommend reading.
March 2, 2017
I absolutely LOVED this book! The story sucked me right in and Avlyn's world felt so *real.* Lena was probably my favorite character, and I loved the relationship between Meyer and Avlyn. It felt natural and not at all rushed like some other relationships in books sometimes are. I used up every free moment I had to sit down and read just a few pages...it was absolutely amazing! I highly recommend this book, and I can't wait for the next two in the trilogy! <3
February 15, 2017
it took forever to get to something interesting i almost stopped reading this for ever like a million times. but its like that book and when you stop something happens and you where like 1 page away. and later on people are like yeah that book was the greatest. and you were like ooo i was like one page away. what ever some book start in the middle some book start in the front and die in the middle you reader out there in the world know what i mean. any way it got better it was ok no spoilers though i give it 3 stars for world building and the tech involved. i would read the next book but god help it if its not better im dropping this series.
January 31, 2019
It was an okay book. There were parts I really found interesting and neat, and there was excitement, but I didn't find it more than okay. I did like how the main character had realistic feelings and emotions towards the situations (which I really appreciate because most MC's immediately think their invincible and better than everyone when faced with dangerous situations) and I thought her ability was really cool and unique. I'm curious enough as to how it all plays out so I might continue with the series eventually.
October 16, 2016
I finally finished my ARC of this book and am very pleased by it. I am very picky about dystopian books so I didn't get my hopes up but I ended up really enjoying this. I am really looking forward to the next two books in the trilogy as there are so many questions I need answered. If you ate looking for a new, fun, emotional book to read, really give this one. Shot!
October 15, 2016
original review @ http://www.covertocover.info/
4.5 stars
Loved this book!!!!... Page Turner... Amazing characters and a fantastic dystopian debut novel!! Really excited for the sequel!! :D
4.5 stars
Loved this book!!!!... Page Turner... Amazing characters and a fantastic dystopian debut novel!! Really excited for the sequel!! :D
October 8, 2016
Great new YA dystopian book. I really love the characters, the storyline kept me interested throughout the whole story. Left me wanting more, I can't wait for the next book!
August 22, 2018
Loved it.
May 15, 2021
[Book #1 in a YA series. Adult reviewer]
5 WORD REVIEW: Generic YA dystopia, cliffhanger ending.
YA VERDICT: ~3 stars. Adequate but not extraordinary.
ADULT VERDICT: Skip it.
A few details (may contain mild spoilers)
5 WORD REVIEW: Generic YA dystopia, cliffhanger ending.
YA VERDICT: ~3 stars. Adequate but not extraordinary.
ADULT VERDICT: Skip it.
A few details (may contain mild spoilers)
February 11, 2019
This book was pretty good. It was kind of slow at the beginning, and not much happened, but it got really interesting as the book went on. I liked the characters, but I thought they were really predictable. There weren't many surprises or big plot twists.
January 24, 2025
Pretty good story! It didn’t really captivate me in the beginning but after about a third of the book I couldn’t set it down! It needs proofreading as there are a lot of mistakes and sometimes big spaces between the words or even words missing.
The story has some plot holes and leaves a lot of things unexplained, but it’s still a very good book, even though it’s very similar to sci-fi books like Divergent (so if you like Divergent it’s perfect!)
The world building could use some more work too. Still, I’m excited to read the second book🤩
The story has some plot holes and leaves a lot of things unexplained, but it’s still a very good book, even though it’s very similar to sci-fi books like Divergent (so if you like Divergent it’s perfect!)
The world building could use some more work too. Still, I’m excited to read the second book🤩
June 18, 2017
This book was definately interesting, well written and had a lot of depth within the storyline and characters. I was actually kind of sad when I finished it. Great start to the trilogy
September 19, 2019
This is an interesting dystopian concept, but I found the execution somewhat lacking. Overall, a quick read, but nothing we haven’t seen before and doesn’t really offer any new thoughts on the subject. Nonetheless, it was an entertaining read.
September 5, 2018
Now, to set a few things straight:
-This is a dystopian, so there is all the dystopian-y stuff in dystopias in this book. So, uh, get ready for the dystopian-y stuff then!
(Well, ok, that was one thing, but... forget that)
Configured is about a girl, Avlyn Lark, who lives in a neat and orderly life under Direction (a government of sorts), which does have some harsh rules. For example, children in this world cannot be raised by their birth parents. Instead, they are sorted into "classes/levels" and assigned to other couples of that same level. Of course, Direction has always been lying to the people they govern, each more outrageous than that before. Avlyn doesn't know that, but before long, she is asked to join a rebel group, Affinity, who wishes to expose Direction as it truly is. Excitement and adventures ensues.
I did not expect to be so absorbed in this book. Configured kept me reading and reading even if I told myself desperately to stop. It gripped at me and didn't let go. Not that it had a iron grip or anything, but it hooked onto me and I sort of went willingly with it. Well, you get the idea. It was just very... exciting.
I liked the world. It wasn't superb worldbuilding, but it had a base and outline and it was filled in so that I got an idea of how it was like. Sure, there were some sketchy areas, but since I got a general idea, it was OK. This world is set in the future (obviously!) and it has afun things like food printers (which I really want one), things that may be phones but are called Flexxs and basically, things we may find in the future.
The story is somewhat Divergent-ish and The Hunger Games-ish, but Configured doesn't make me think of those two other stories. Instead, it feels independent, by meaning, I don't think "oh, that's so Divergent" or "that's what Katniss would do" or maybe even pull in other people from other stories. It feels original, reads original, which is great.
I didn't really like Avlyn. She seemed to complain about so much things, a little annoying. Still, she is fallible and she is strong. Not iron strong, but getting slowly to it. She's making mistakes and she's learning. She's getting tougher than before. Oh, and her powers have a reason. The other characters were good. They brought in enough weight and each had an important role. Meyer is alright, but I'm leaving him for later on. I especially liked Kyra's role. At first she seemed extra, and I was ready to dismiss her, but then wham - unexpected. (Spoilers).
There is the potential for a love triangle here. Not exactly triangle, I don't think Aron Barton stands a chance. Well, that's a guess. Avlyn and Meyer don't have much chemistry. It feels a little forced, and tiring. Maybe even a cliche. Throughout the whole book, I was secretly hoping for Avlyn to end up with Aron. I was so rooting for Aron (sorry).
Still, I found the bit with Avlyn's supposedly dead twin brother Ben a nice touch. Not really what I like, but a nice touch. It kept me wondering! I still want the food printer.
Overall, this is thrilling and action-packed. Definitely worth reading! Really enjoyed it!
4 stars out of 5.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
-This is a dystopian, so there is all the dystopian-y stuff in dystopias in this book. So, uh, get ready for the dystopian-y stuff then!
(Well, ok, that was one thing, but... forget that)
Configured is about a girl, Avlyn Lark, who lives in a neat and orderly life under Direction (a government of sorts), which does have some harsh rules. For example, children in this world cannot be raised by their birth parents. Instead, they are sorted into "classes/levels" and assigned to other couples of that same level. Of course, Direction has always been lying to the people they govern, each more outrageous than that before. Avlyn doesn't know that, but before long, she is asked to join a rebel group, Affinity, who wishes to expose Direction as it truly is. Excitement and adventures ensues.
I did not expect to be so absorbed in this book. Configured kept me reading and reading even if I told myself desperately to stop. It gripped at me and didn't let go. Not that it had a iron grip or anything, but it hooked onto me and I sort of went willingly with it. Well, you get the idea. It was just very... exciting.
I liked the world. It wasn't superb worldbuilding, but it had a base and outline and it was filled in so that I got an idea of how it was like. Sure, there were some sketchy areas, but since I got a general idea, it was OK. This world is set in the future (obviously!) and it has afun things like food printers (which I really want one), things that may be phones but are called Flexxs and basically, things we may find in the future.
The story is somewhat Divergent-ish and The Hunger Games-ish, but Configured doesn't make me think of those two other stories. Instead, it feels independent, by meaning, I don't think "oh, that's so Divergent" or "that's what Katniss would do" or maybe even pull in other people from other stories. It feels original, reads original, which is great.
I didn't really like Avlyn. She seemed to complain about so much things, a little annoying. Still, she is fallible and she is strong. Not iron strong, but getting slowly to it. She's making mistakes and she's learning. She's getting tougher than before. Oh, and her powers have a reason. The other characters were good. They brought in enough weight and each had an important role. Meyer is alright, but I'm leaving him for later on. I especially liked Kyra's role. At first she seemed extra, and I was ready to dismiss her, but then wham - unexpected. (Spoilers).
There is the potential for a love triangle here. Not exactly triangle, I don't think Aron Barton stands a chance. Well, that's a guess. Avlyn and Meyer don't have much chemistry. It feels a little forced, and tiring. Maybe even a cliche. Throughout the whole book, I was secretly hoping for Avlyn to end up with Aron. I was so rooting for Aron (sorry).
Still, I found the bit with Avlyn's supposedly dead twin brother Ben a nice touch. Not really what I like, but a nice touch. It kept me wondering! I still want the food printer.
Overall, this is thrilling and action-packed. Definitely worth reading! Really enjoyed it!
4 stars out of 5.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2016
I received an ARC of this book and I am infinitely grateful for that. This book is simply AMAZING!
Avlyn Lark is a young girl living in high-tech world where the community of citizens of Elore is led by the Direction, represented by the single person of director Manning. Based on research and strict rules all citizens must follow to maximize the utilization of the society, anyone having different stream of thoughts is considered uncomfortable and needs to be re-educated or erased from existence. The system network connecting all devices and citizens in Elore enables the Director a great deal of control and manipulation over the city and its inhabitants, except for a group of rebels called the Affinity, which shows interest in Avlyn´s skills and recruits her among its ranks. Avlyn is no trained spy, though, and on her missions she not only gets her eyes open about the cruel reality, but suffers from great loss... and finds love.
This book is an awesome pageturner, fast-paced and full of action and suspense. I only regret I couldn´t read it in one breath. The characters are fantastic, complex and developing with each decision they must make. Avlyn is talented, sort of a superhero due to her skills, but absolutely human in her personality. Meyer is charming, a bit mysterious, adding to the atmosphere of uncertainty, and not only for Avlyn. The world where emotions are suppressed and forbidden causes ache in my heart for them, and I found myself holding my breath and praying for their success. I am already impatiently waiting for the continuation.
Avlyn Lark is a young girl living in high-tech world where the community of citizens of Elore is led by the Direction, represented by the single person of director Manning. Based on research and strict rules all citizens must follow to maximize the utilization of the society, anyone having different stream of thoughts is considered uncomfortable and needs to be re-educated or erased from existence. The system network connecting all devices and citizens in Elore enables the Director a great deal of control and manipulation over the city and its inhabitants, except for a group of rebels called the Affinity, which shows interest in Avlyn´s skills and recruits her among its ranks. Avlyn is no trained spy, though, and on her missions she not only gets her eyes open about the cruel reality, but suffers from great loss... and finds love.
This book is an awesome pageturner, fast-paced and full of action and suspense. I only regret I couldn´t read it in one breath. The characters are fantastic, complex and developing with each decision they must make. Avlyn is talented, sort of a superhero due to her skills, but absolutely human in her personality. Meyer is charming, a bit mysterious, adding to the atmosphere of uncertainty, and not only for Avlyn. The world where emotions are suppressed and forbidden causes ache in my heart for them, and I found myself holding my breath and praying for their success. I am already impatiently waiting for the continuation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews